e-Newspaper for July 5, 2023

Melham & Council want ATVs, motorbikes, to be fair game for police

See Page 4

OFF AND RUNNING

Doyle, Santana announce Kearny mayoral candidacies within 30 minutes of each other

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

Kearny Councilmembers Carol Jean Doyle and Peter P. Santana both wasted little time announcing their candidacies to replace former Mayor Alberto G. Santos as Kearny’s leader.

Santana posted his announcement shortly after 3 p.m., Tuesday, June 27, on social media and then Doyle followed just 30 minutes later.

Santana represents the town’s Second Ward and has done so since 2017.

“To my fellow residents of the Town of Kearny, after hearing from many of you and after, most importantly, discussing it with my family, I will be a candidate for mayor,” Santana said. “It has always been my intention to make this announcement after Mayor Alberto Santos vacated the mayoral seat. I have always supported him as mayor and Democratic Party leader.

“Working alongside him it is clear that he has always been engaged in the best interest of Kearny. Mayor Santos has earned the courtesy for us to let him move on to this next step and most deserved new chapter in his life.

“However, since the news

Resolution to put Ficeto on DPW Committee shot down by Council

Santana wanted measure pulled until next meeting in July

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

As former Kearny Mayor Alberto G. Santos exited stage left on Tuesday, June 27, after he gave a rousing farewell address for the ages that prompted an elongated standing ovation from those assembled at the council chambers, he made certain to say he had hopes the remaining governing body would continue to build on the work they did for the last 23 years.

Within hours of his departure things appeared to get a bit testy.

The Town Council rejected a resolution that would have added Fourth Ward Council-

man Jerry Ficeto to the town’s Department of Public Works committee by a 4 to 3 margin. Voting in favor of the measure were Acting Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, Ficeto and Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro.

Voting against the measure were Councilman Peter Santana, Councilwoman Eileen Eckel — and freshman representatives George Zapata and Stat Theodoropoulous, who have been on the council a grand total of 180 days.

Despite Theodoropoulous’s move, it was Ficeto, meanwhile, who campaigned for and went all out for Theodoropoulous in his rookie run for the council last year, endorsing

See DPW, Page 18

KEARNY VOTES

‘23

broke in March of this year of the submission of his name for a judgeship, there has been constant speculation as to who should be the next mayor. This is a broad and diverse community, there are many qualified individuals, the Council included, who are well suited to represent the town as a whole. Not only am I one of them, but I believe I am uniquely qualified to do so. I look forward to talking more about this as we move forward, let’s keep Kearny strong.”

Doyle, who has represented the Third Ward since 1996, had a message that was similarly upbeat and positive.

“For more than 50 years, since I was a young woman beginning my family, I have always prided myself on being civic-minded,” Doyle said. “Whether it is through the Woman’s Club of Arlington, being present for my children as they grew up, putting together a senior citizens picnic, cleaning up the Passaic River, and more things that I could go on for a long time listing, everything I ever did — and continue to do — was the

See RUNNING, Page 19

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

Nutley enters shared-services agreement with township’s board of education

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

The Nutley Board of Commissioners recently passed a resolution to enter into a shared-services agreement with the Board of Education with a mutual goal of what it calls “continued educational excellence throughout the township.”

The township and BOE have historically shared services, assisting each other in various capacities —examples include the completion of an outdoor preschool playground — and to further those efforts, have

established a new ad-hoc committee to share resources and collaborate on various initiatives.

Plans include the improvement of existing conditions of board and township buildings and facilities to better serve the residents as a whole as well as continued discussions to continue to improve upon current and future infrastructures for students’ academic and developmental support.

“We are excited to get started on this initiative with the board of education subcommittee to further our mutual goal of ultimately optimizing the facilities,

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USDA LOANS

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Some USDA loans do not require a down payment; however, extra fees include an upfront fee of one percent of the loan amount. There are three types of USDA loan programs: a loan guarantee in which the USDA guarantees a mortgage

NUTLEY NEWS

buildings and programs available to our residents,” Mayor Dr. Joseph P. Scarpelli said.

“We’ve been working cooperatively with the BOE for many, many years,” Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci said. “But we never really formalized the way we go about doing things. We need to make sure that our children are given the best educational experience we can possibly afford. The best way to do this is to pool our resources.

“By introducing this resolution, we’re making a statement as a board that we’re committed to improving the educational experience of every child in the Township of Nutley. We need to assure that the educa-

tional experience will continue to attract people into this town who are committed to the same ideals and family goals that we have.

Members of the Nutley Board of Education were also present for passage of Resolution 13823, including President Sal Ferraro, who addressed the board following its favorable vote.

“This resolution is the first formal step in establishing a joint agreement that will implement solutions to benefit our school district and community. I want to thank the BOC for their insight and knowledge. We look forward to continuing our work together,” he said.

The mayor agreed.

“Establishing a joint working relationship will further help Nutley continue to

from another lender, a direct loan from the USDA, and through home improvement loans and grants. Navigating your way through the many options available in loans and obtaining financing for a new home is one more step in the journey that brings home ownership closer to reality. There’s much to learn, many steps to take, and lots to do to accomplish a successful real estate transaction. If you’d like some help with the process, we welcome your call. Family owned and operated for over 55 years,“Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”

uphold the importance of high-quality educational offerings to our residents and taxpayers in a formalized, fiscally responsible way,” Scarpelli said. “We are all excited to work as a team to do what is best for our great township.”

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Scarpelli

Belleville has big plans made for summer fun with concerts & more

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

Belleville Mayor Michael A. Melham and the Township Council invite you to grab a lawn chair and head on over to Belleville High School for the launch of the free Summer Concert Series.

The Infernos will have you up and dancing when the band kicks off the concert series Thursday, July 13. A variety of bands playing a mix of music will perform each Thursday through the end of summer.

Concert-goers are asked to arrive at 6:30 p.m., with the music scheduled to start at 7.

The series will conclude with the rowdy country hits of Big Hix on Aug. 31, followed by a fireworks show.

Melham and the Council

THINGS TO DO

also invite residents to enjoy the return of Movies at Dusk, an annual series has quickly becoming a favorite in Belleville for the way it recreates the old-time drive-in movie feel.

“Super Mario” and “Brothers” will be shown during the first Movies at Dusk night at Belleville High School. Residents are asked to gather at 7:30 p.m., with films starting at 8 p.m.

“Top Gun” and “Maverick” will be on the bill for the other Movies at Dusk showing, on Aug. 30.

Check the Township of Belleville’s website for more details on all the family-friendly festivities.

Ken Davie

Two still at-large in Nutley burglary: NPD

One person is in custody but other suspects are still being sought by the Nutley Police Department in what is being described as an attempted burglary, Det. Lt. Anthony Montanari, the department’s public-information officer said.

Police say they responded to Columbia Avenue at 2:52 a.m., Friday, June 23, on an attempted burglary. Through surveillance, multiple suspects were seen attempting to gain entry into the rear sliding doors of a home unsuccessfully. Police located three men along Gerard Road

fitting their description. When the suspects observed police, the three fled on foot though one was apprehended.

Neighboring agencies including the Lyndhurst, Belleville and Bloomfield police departments and the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist searching for the two at-large

If anyone has information on this case or observes any sort of suspicious activity, call Nutley police at (973) 284-4940 or dial 911.

— CANESSA

Melham, Belleville Council, take steps to outlaw off-road vehicles

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

The Belleville Mayor and Council are calling on state officials to relax directives that prohibit members of local law enforcement from engaging in vehicular pursuits, except in rare instances.

Specifically, the relaxation of directives adopted in 2020 and slightly revised later would assist Belleville police in cracking down on a surge of illegal all-terrain vehicle (ATVs) and motorbike riders

who are joyriding on public roads.

Often riding in packs ranging from dozens to more than 100 in towns from Belleville and across the state, these riders pose a threat to themselves and law-abiding motorists, pedestrians and cyclists, the township mayor said.

“And they seem to especially enjoy taunting local police officers who are limited by directives to deal with these bad actors and do their stated job: keeping residents safe,”

Mayor Michael A. Melham said.

According to a resolution passed at the Belleville Mayor and Council meeting Tuesday, June 27, “neutering police officers and local departments, who want to perform their constitutional duties, is leading to not

Kearny Public Library

only increased public-safety issues, but can be directly related to increased lawlessness in our once quiet communities.”

A copy of the resolution, which also calls for tougher penalties on these ATV and motorbike riders, will be forward to Gov. Philip D.

MUSIC & MOVEMENT

Murphy, Attorney General Matthew Platkin and the state Legislature.

“If dangerous ATVs and dirt bikes were roaring by the governor’s mansion in Middletown, day and night, you can bet this would be

June 26, 2023

Dear Residents of Kearny:

I am writing this letter on my 8,577th day as Mayor of Kearny. It is also my last day as Mayor. I will soon begin a new chapter in my career in public service as a New Jersey Superior Court Judge.

This was an extremely hard decision for me. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your Mayor. However, in the past two years the demands of the office have taken a toll on my well-being. After weeks of personal reflection, I came to the realization that I had put my personal life and professional life on “pause” in order to fulfill the duties of Mayor. I need to “un-pause” those parts of me.

On this my last day as Mayor, I take great comfort in knowing that I live and will continue to live in a town whose residents share the values of hard work, treating each other with respect and helping those in need. We are very lucky to call Kearny our home.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the residents of Kearny for their support and guidance through my 23 and ½ years as Mayor. Those years included very trying events such 9-11, the Great Recession, hurricanes and a pandemic. But they also included numerous events that brought us joy – when we came together as a community – such as parades, flag raisings, Little League and Softball Openings, 4th of July Firework Celebrations, the 150th anniversary of our Town’s formation and school graduations to name a few. I’ve also had the wonderful privilege of performing nearly 2,000 weddings and seeing couples profess their love. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives.

of July Firework Celebrations, the 150th anniversary of our Town’s

When I made mistakes, I acknowledged them and sought to correct

I have done my best to govern by building consensus and serving with kindness and decency. I hope the next Mayor does the same. When I made mistakes, I acknowledged them and sought to correct them. To persons I may have offended in my capacity as Mayor, I ask for forgiveness.

I will now end my service as your Mayor with one of my favorite quotes from the late Archbishop Oscar Romero:

“We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that. This enables us to do something, and to do it very well. It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, a step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord’s grace to enter and do the rest.”

It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, a step along the way, an

Very truly yours,

Alberto G. Santos

Paid for by Committee to Elect Alberto G. Santos

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

COMMENTARY

Santos’s legacy will remain for many years to come

In 1998, the campaign I was working with said it needed a candidate to run against sitting Councilman, the lategreat Manny Trueba. I thought, heck, I am only 22, I can handle the task.

Only, Manny wasn’t the only guy who would wind up running that year. A gentleman whose name was beginning to be well known, through his letters to the editor of The Hudson Press (a now-defunct newspaper) made it pretty clear he was a serious soon-to-be player in politics.

Alberto G. Santos went on to beat Trueba in a primary — then he trounced me by more than 400 votes in November and he served for a year as Second Ward councilman. A year later, he ran for mayor — and the rest, as they say, is history.

In that history, there were many times he and I didn’t see eye to eye. There was a lot of yelling. A lot of writing. And a lot of dislike for each other. In fact, Santos and I were both at police headquarters at like 2 a.m. the morning of the election because of a verbal disagreement on Tappan Street.

As the years went by, and I switched sides, politically and career-wise, we continued to disagree on, well, nearly everything. But then came the realization that in reality, we agreed on so much more than we didn’t agree on. And being at odds just to be at odds was ridiculous.

We mended fences. And it was one of the best things to happen to me in my career and my life. Because we really got to witness something special and something that will be hard to replicate. Whether it was stopping sex offenders from being housed in South Kearny, the Keegan Landfill, watching Kearny turn into a redeveloping gem of Hudson, or countless other things he accomplished in 23 years, Alberto G. Santos was, without question in my mind, one of the finest leaders Kearny has ever known — and there have been some great ones over the years.

They say everyone can be replaced, but this one will be doable but difficult. It reminds me of when a former teacher of mine would praise good work by saying, “Only to be matched, but never surpassed.”

That’s kind of how I feel now, as we bid adieu to the man who anyone 23 or younger have never known a mayor other than him. He will continue to do great things in Jersey City on the bench and is ready for the task.

And look around — something you see in Kearny will probably be as it is because of Al. I will miss him. Many others will miss him.

But were we ever lucky to have him while we did.

— KEVIN A. CANESSA JR.

Rose:

StayNJ proposal is just another of many gimmicks that won’t ever work

To the Editor: As an 83-year-old home owner, I would like to get excited over Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin’s StayNJ proposed bill that would give senior citizens a break in the property taxes they pay. But then reality sets in, and I realize all of the state Assembly and Senate seats are up for election this year, and the program would include all seniors regardless of their income. There is no accompanying plan as to how to fund it. Of course, funding the government in NJ is never a problem that can’t be solved.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

A prime example of this would be the geniuses who run our state underestimating the revenues they would take in by billions, and having the NJ Supreme Court rescind the rights of the voters to vote on any new borrowing and allowing the government to borrow $9 billion, money it turns out the state didn’t need. But interest must be paid on the billions it did borrow.

So it wouldn’t really be out of the ordinary for our

legislators a week after the election to come to the realization there is no cash to fund the StayNJ program and cancel it.

To his credit, Gov. Philip D. Murphy has said: “I don’t think we should be in the business of giving the likes of me tax breaks.” On that I agree, but it raises the question as to why the governor is in favor of doing away with SALT, which would give him a $200,000 tax break. Don’t hold your breath waiting for StayNJ or NJ politics to change.

Armand Rose North Arlington

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Five suspects posing as ‘clients’ viciously beat eyelash tech with brick on Ivy Street: Kearny PD

By Sgt. Mike Gontarczuk Kearny Police Department

Shortly after noon, June 26, Kearny police units were dispatched to Ivy Street, in response to reports of five people attacking a lone victim with a brick. Officer Mat Lopez was first to arrive on scene and found the victim bleeding from the nose and mouth and with scrapes to various parts of her body.

He obtained and broadcast descriptions of her assailants, who had fled on foot. Just as the perpetrators reached a van they had stashed around the corner, Officer Jean-Paul Duran caught up with them. Back-up units were quickly summoned and the group was detained.

Fortunately, the victim was treated

on-scene and did not require immediate hospitalization. She was able to identify her attackers and provide the following statement to police:

“The victim is an eye lash technician and had accepted an appointment for her services. When her appointment arrived, the victim answered the door, at which point one of the assailants forced her way into the victim’s residence, began striking her, then pulled the victim out of the house.

Several others joined in on the assault as they stole the victim’s cell phone, and at one point she was struck with a brick.”

Two witnesses told police they observed the incident and notified them, while also taking a video, which corroborated the victim’s narrative. Additionally, when the victim “pinged” her stolen cell phone, the location

POLICE BEAT

showed to be inside or near the assailants’ van.

After a thorough on-scene investigation, the van was seized, pending a search warrant, and the following individuals were taken into custody: Keyalinee C. Maxwell, 19; Janiel A. Cruz, 18; DiAndra S. Loving, 19; Danny Reynoso, 19; and a 16-year-old girl, all of Jersey City.

Each of the five were charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a weapon, endangering the welfare of a child and conspiracy.

Maxwell, Cruz, Loving and Reynoso were transported to the Hudson County

Correctional Facility, while the girl was remanded to the Bergen County Juvenile Detention Center.

Det. John Fabula is conducting further investigation into this matter.

 At about 2 a.m., June 26, Officer Anthony Oliveira was dispatched to the area of Chestnut Street and Woodland Avenue, after a witness reported two males attempting to enter parked vehicles. Sgt. Dean Gasser, and Officers Cazares and Latka responded as well. After the caller provided officers with a detailed description and direction of flight of the would-be burglars, Officer Oliveira found one of the individuals, who was wearing a full-cover face mask. He detained him, at which point the man stated he was visiting his previous place of employment on

See KPD, Page 15

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NA & Lyndhurst PD team up to nab suspected burglars: police

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

Tuesday, June 20, was a busy day for police in Lyndhurst and North Arlington.

Police in Lyndhurst arrested three males — two juveniles and a man — on drug-possession charges, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri told The Observer.

According to Auteri, here’s how it all went down.

That day, police in North Arlington broadcasted a look-out for three suspects who were wanted for an attempted burglary there. The three apparently fled to Lyndhurst and they were eventually pulled over by LPD Officer Michael Carrino.

Carrino pulled the trio over after hearing the BOLO on police radio.

North Arlington police, realizing the suspects in their crime had been apprehended, responded to Lyndhurst, but during the investigation, North Arlington officers recovered a handgun in the car they were driving around in in the two local towns.

The North Arlington incident

Capt. Robert Reilly, of the North Arlington Police Department, told The Observer earlier that night, the NAPD received a call from of resident of Stover Avenue stating a group of youths were running through back yards and trespassing. Officers responded and were initially unable

to locate the group, until police dispatch received a second call from a resident of Noel Drive who’d observed the same group of youths.

A short time later, Lyndhurst police located a vehicle on Ridge Road with two youth passengers matching the description. They were then identified by one of the callers and arrested along with the adult male driver. Both juveniles were in possession of handguns and stolen property. One of the handguns was reported stolen from Pennsylvania.

Reilly said one 16-year-old Black male from Newark was charged with theft, burglary, conspiracy, unlawful possession of a handgun and criminal attempt. He was turned over to the Bergen County Juvenile Detention Center.

One 17-year-old Black male from Newark was charged with theft, conspiracy, burglary, receiving stolen property, unlawful possession of a handgun and criminal attempt. He was also turned over to the Bergen County Juvenile Detention Center.

The adult driver, Azize Rahee Durant, 19, of Newark, a Black male, was charged with two counts of employing a juvenile in the commission of a crime, conspiracy, theft and burglary. He was turned over to the Bergen County Jail.

The North Arlington Police Department thanked the Lyndhurst Police Department for their assistance and to the residents of North Arlington for their vigilance by contacting the police.

LFD makes quick work of blaze

Because of the quick response of the Lyndhurst Fire Department (and Police Department), a blaze at 9:19 a.m., Thursday, June 29, that could have been a lot worse was instead much less severe.

Lyndhurst PD Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri tells The Observer when police and fire arrived on the scene, the husband and wife occupants of the home had already vacated the building. However, smoke and flames were seen coming out of a rear, second-floor bedroom.

return to the home.

The Lyndhurst Fire Official’s office says the cause of the fire was determined to be an “improperly discarded cigarette.”

“Thanks to the quick response of the LFD, this one was quickly extinguished,” Auteri said. “I’d like to thank the North Arlington and Rutherford fire departments for their assistance at this fire. We are grateful for their help.”

— CANESSA

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Within minutes, the fire was completely extinguished, but the damage was too extensive for the couple to

Editor’s note: A photo of the fire appears at www.theobserver.com

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SPORTS & HEALTH

Local baseball stars shine in Quad-County Underclassmen All-Star Game

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

The Northern Essex County trio of Nutley, Bloomfield and Belleville has long been known as an area with plenty of baseball talent. That talent was on full display Wednesday night at the Quad County Underclassmen games in North Brunswick.

Two Observer-area athletes took home Most Valuable Player honors for their respective teams in the event, which featured players from Essex, Hudson, Middlesex and Union counties.

In one of the games, Essex and Hudson played to a 7-7 tie after nine innings. In a game with plenty of big hits and offensive moments, the biggest came from Nutley native and St. Peter’s Prep catcher Joe Haines, who launched a three-run home run off of Columbia’s Reno Spagnoli in the top of the ninth inning for the Hudson County squad.

Three walks and a wild pitch had trimmed the Essex County lead to 6-4 and with count 3-1 on Haines, the standout catcher was looking for a fastball to drive, which he certainly did.

“You’re always looking for that one and I got into a hitter’s count, 3-1,” said Haines, who has helped lead the Marauders to consecutive Hudson County championships. “I was looking to attack a fastball and he got that one in there and I was able to turn it around pretty quick. He’s a talented baseball player, but I got the best of him today.”

Haines’ blast, which disappeared into the trees beyond the centerfield fence at Community Park, gave Hudson a 7-6 lead.

Essex County would tie the game in

the bottom of the ninth thanks to an error, forcing the tie.

Haines, who had a RBI single earlier in the game, was named Most Valuable Player for Hudson County.

While several hitters had big games, the night’s dominant pitching performance came from Bloomfield’s Evit Dwyer, who was the Most Valuable Player for Essex County.

The towering 6-foot-5 righthander struck out six of the seven batters he faced. Dwyer, who went 9-1 this spring for the Bengals, was deceptive with his fastball, then left multiple hitters shaking their head at being exposed to his devastating curveball.

“I had a couple of good curveballs, but most importantly, I just located the fastball to set up the curveball,” said Dwyer, who helped lead Bloomfield to the North 1, Group 4 final. “It’s exciting. You know you have two innings so just go out there and just throw, do the best you can. Having the scouts there just gives an added pressure to perform well.”

While everyone who stepped on the field experienced some added pressure, arguably no one on any of the four teams had more to prove than the Belleville tandem of Crismel Deleon and Ayden Carrero.

No Belleville player had been selected to the event since 2015.

“The first time (head coach Joe Sorce) told me, I couldn’t believe it,” said Deleon, one of just two freshmen selected to the Essex County team. “It was pretty cool. It made me realize that I have a lot of talent. And for the next three years, I’m looking forward to a lot of big things.”

“If you make it to an all-star game,

you have to try to prove that you belong there,” said Carrero, a sophomore infielder.

Carrero and Deleon may have initially been overlooked due to Belleville being in a weaker division, the Super Essex Conference’s Colonial Division, but they showed they belonged on this night.

Deleon reached base in both of his plate appearances, singling to lead off the bottom of the sixth inning, then drawing a walk in the seventh. Carrero was hit by a pitch in the sixth and later hit into a fielder’s choice ground out in the seventh.

“They were both pretty excited when I told them,” Sorce said. “They

were honored, they were excited, but the moment wasn’t too big for them.

“These two guys really epitomize the group we have right now. Good kids who want to play baseball, who want to work hard and want to get better.”

Nutley first baseman Erik Thompson had a RBI groundout in the bottom of the sixth inning for Essex County.

This year marked the 13th edition of the event, which started as the Essex vs. Union Underclassmen Game in 2010. In 2018, it was expanded to a two-game event with teams from Hudson and Middlesex County included.

Belleville’s Ayden Carrero (left) and Crismel Deleon.

Lyndhurst Girls Basketball Summer League returns with heavy local flavor

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Opportunities for local girls basketball players aren’t as plentiful as they are for their male counterparts. So when current Lyndhurst boys basketball coach Perrin Mosca was asked to continue running the Lyndhurst Girls Basketball Summer League even though he is no longer the Golden Bears girls coach, Mosca was more than willing to do it.

“Current girls coach Chris-

tian (Boyce) asked me to run it again,” Mosca said. “I’ve been doing it for quite a few years now so I reached out to everybody and they’re willing to do it again, so we did.”

With everyone still on board, the Lyndhurst Girls Basketball Summer League is now midway through its third consecutive season. The league features 10 teams, including host Lyndhurst, North Arlington, Nutley and Bloomfield from The Observer coverage area.

Hackensack, Montclair,

Rutherford, Becton, Cliffside Park and Ridgefield Park round out the field for the league, which plays every Tuesday and Thursday through July 20.

“It’s good for these teams in Lyndhurst and throughout since it helps,” said Mosca. “Some teams don’t have a chance to play in the summer and this gives them an opportunity.”

The league initially started more than a decade ago

Continued on the next page

Premier Care TALKS

GENOMIC MEDICINE: GETTING PERSONAL

The emerging medical discipline involving the use of a patient’s genetic information as part of their clinical care and health outcomes is known as genomic medicine. It is making a huge impact in oncology, pharmacology, rare and undiagnosed diseases, as well as infectious disease. The study of genetic information (DNA) allows doctors to determine genetic interaction with patient health. Genomics studies a patient’s biological information to determine how it could improve clinical care and treatment results through effective diagnosis and individualized treatment plans. Utilizing genomic data also helps providers identify patients who are at high risk

of developing certain medical conditions. This discipline is especially helpful in proactively treating cognitive or behavioral disorders before patients present signs of certain diseases.

Advances in genomic medicine mean that more diseases, both rare and more common, can be diagnosed and treated than ever before. 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. DNA was first identified in the late 1860s by Swiss chemist Friedrich Miescher.

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

Premier Care Associates of West Hudson is available on a walk-in or appointment basis for your primary healthcare needs.

Dr. Prakash

J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

Skyla Acosta

Continued from previous page

during Mosca’s first stint as Lyndhurst’s head girls coach. The summer league moved over to Hackensack when Mosca left Lyndhurst to become the coach at Hackensack. It returned to Lyndhurst in 2021 after Mosca returned to begin his second stint as Golden Bears head coach.

Mosca tried to add a boys summer league in Lyndhurst, but didn’t find enough interest for it. Instead, his team, as well as North Arlington, are set to compete in the Paterson Charter Summer League beginning on July 5.

“I think it’s a great tool for these teams, especially if you have some younger players and you’re looking to see how they’re going to react to varsity play,” said Mosca. “It’s

a great chance for them to get together and get some games in for new players as well as working together with your returning players.”

This summer marks the first time he is running the league in Lyndhurst while not coaching the girls during

the high school season and while he admits the feeling is a little different, it does create a more stress free environment to watch a Lyndhurst team that includes many of his former players, including Asya Akar and Sam Mayer.

“It is a little different, but I’m still rooting for these girls. A lot of them I had when they were freshmen,” said Mosca, also noting how much he has seen North Arlington improve over the three years he’s had the league. “I love that group of girls so it’s fun to watch them without having to worry about anything other than cheering them on.”

The Lyndhurst Girls Basketball Summer League, which started on June 13, is taking this week off due to

the Fourth of July holiday before resuming play on Tuesday, July 11. Unlike some other leagues, Lyndhurst’s does not include a playoff at the end.

Each team is guaranteed 10 games.

CAN YOU HAVE A STROKE IN YOUR

An eye stroke happens due to insufficient blood flow to the front of the optic nerve. It can be caused by total blockage of a blood vessel, lack of pressure, or perforation of the optic nerve tissue. Low pressure in the eye reduces the normal flow of blood, cutting off the nutrient supply to the optic nerve. If the nerve tissue is damaged or lost, it can lead to vision loss. People with low blood pressure and cardiovascular disease are at higher risk. It usually happens painlessly without warning, but a major symptom is waking up with vision loss in one eye. Some also experience a dark area in part of the visual field, loss of contrast, and light sensitivity.

We offer comprehensive eye

EYE?

health evaluations and necessary follow-up care. A complete eye exam involves a series of tests designed to evaluate your vision and check for eye diseases. There is also dedicated time for one-on-one doctor and patient dialogue to provide you with high quality personalized care. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with us today! Call 201-896-0096, and see us at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. Call 201-896-0007 if you need to reach our optical shop. We accept most insurance.

P.S. The optic nerve connects the brain to the eye and has millions of nerve fibers and blood vessels. It sends signals to the brain that are interpreted into the images we see.

www.delucavision.com

Asya Akar

Brooke Harper

If your child or children play on a recreation sports team, let us know! We’ll publish photos from games, tournaments, etc. Send an email to editorial@ theobserver. com

Franklin School in Kearny names May Students of the Month

Yvonne Cali, principal of Franklin School in Kearny, announced the May Students of the Month, who were chosen based on the month’s mantra, “I Got This!”

Kailee Pinto, Mia Castro, Mya Cortes, Maria Molina Merizalde, Sofia Herhour, Ammy Sarmiento, Grace

IN THE SCHOOLS

Taliento, Gavin Zambrano, Estefano Delgado Vallejo, Brian Brandao, Pedro Alves Madeira ,Ebrahim Perea, Nathan Zuluaga, Lissander DiLorenzo Nunez, Mia Salinas Cordero, Aditi Jani, Elizah Vasconcelos Austin Toledo, Kailee Pinto, Kayden Reyes, Julia De Paula, Sebastian Salas, Nicoly Batista Domingos, Amaia Soto Rosario, Gael S. Cardenas, Adiel J.

Araya Mendez, Scarlett Alvarracin, Lennon Miranda, Lucian Fernandes, Bianca Torres Gama, Anneliese Ramos, Luiza Camara Neves, Julian Benitez, Benjamin Gonzalez, Janelyse Deleon, Xolani Charles, Leslie Madera, Ava Shaw, Rayyan Bourquia, Joselyn Espinoza Morquecho, Noah Soto Rosario, Steven Arias, Ezequiel Flores Zenteno, Adelina Martinez, Elliana Ramdass, Matangi Jani andn Audrey Lugo.

Garfield school in Kearny names June Students of the Month Donna Masters, principal

of Garfield School, announces the following recipients of Student of the Month for June 2023.

Kindergarten: Zolimar

Cepeda, Liam Lopez, Ana Silva. 1st Grade: Antonio Gutierrez, Illary Herrera

Tocagon, Thea Silva, Castiel

Zapata. 2nd Grade: Ethan Delgado, Rayan Nazhi, Nathan Paredes. 3rd Grade: Carolina Cerron Salvador, Victoria Collado, Abigail

Naranjo. 4th Grade: Sebastian

Carfagna, Nigel Mangal, Mia Torres. 5th Grade: Megan

Delgado, Shary Mejia, Tomas

Suarez, Julian Tirado. 6th Grade: Kaylee Garcia, Guilherme Lima, Isabella Mangal, Mason Scarpa.

Two local women get degrees from Centenary University

Two local graduates have been awarded a degree by Centenary University in Hackettstown.

Laura Lehman, of Lyndhurst, received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and Kara Nitkowski, of Nutley, received a master’s degree in school counseling. A total of 350 degrees were conferred.

5.20

5.35

Peter R Petronzio Financial Advisor

7 N Broad Street Suite 202

Ridgewood, NJ 07450

201-445-9220

5.30

(DTC).

Kathleen Kijesky

Kathleen Kijesky, 64, of whiting, died at home on Tuesday, June 27, 2023.

Kathleen was born in Newark and grew up in Kearny.

Kathleen attended St. Stephen’s School for grammar and went on to Kearny High School. She spent time living in Carteret, before moving to Whiting, eight years ago.

Kathleen had her own business cleaning houses and enjoyed watching Investigation

Discovery, the History Channel and National Geographic shows. She loved pets (mostly dogs) and spending time with her grandson Michael.

Kathleen was predeceased by her parents Walter and Margaret Sheehy.

OBITUARIES

She is survived by her loving husband Robert “Bob” Durkin, daughter Jamie (Ray) Hillsberry of Coatesville, Pennsylvania, sisters Patricia Gumble (Robert Stebbins) of Barnegat, Deborah (Bill) Glendenning of Round Rock, Texas, and Karen (Bob) Kuhar of Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania and grandson Michael.

An interment of ashes took place Friday, June 30, in St Mary’s Cemetery, Manahawkin.

Rafaela Gonzalez

Rafaela Gonzalez (nee Rondon), 59, of Kearny, died peacefully on Saturday, June 24, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

The beloved wife of Osiris Gonzalez, she was also the devoted mother of Osiris Gonzalez and his wife Yamile, and Angel Gonzalez. Cherished grandmother of Celeste Gonzalez, she was dear sister of Luz Rondon, Felo Rondon,

WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME

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

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

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home

596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657

Lilly Rondon, Ana Lidia Rondon and Reynaldo Rondon. Rafaela loved spending time with her family and she truly enjoyed her morning coffee talks with her husband, Osiris. Rafaela enjoyed traveling and was an avid fashion fan. She will be truly missed by many loving family and friends.

A funeral Mass was celebrated at the funeral home. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. The Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge.

Marilyn Romanowski

Marilyn Romanowski, 68, of Kearny, died June 25, 2023. She was predeceased by her parents, Dorothy and Vincent Mason, brother Thomas Mason and husband Anthony Romanowski. She is survived by her daughter

Continued on the next page

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

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

Home for Services

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

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

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

Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.

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

N. Arlington - $2,100 Modern Studio Apt. – 625 Sq Ft. - Kitchen, Full Bath, Laundry/Utility Room – private parking – New building “The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart key access.

N. Arlington - $2,500

1 Bdrm - 1,136 Sq Ft Luxury Apt - Open concept - LR, DR, EIK, Full Bath, In-unit Laundry–private parking – New Building “The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart key access.

1,136 Sq Ft Luxury Apt - Open concept - LR, DR, EIK, Full Bath, In-unit Laundry– private parking – New Building “The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart key access.

N. Arlington - $3,500

2 Bdrms - 1,453 Sq Ft Luxury Apt - Open concept - LR, DR, EIK, Full Bath, In-unit Laundry –private parking – New Building

“The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart key access.

N. Arlington - $3,250 –1 Bdrm + bonus room –1,453 Sq Ft Luxury Apt. - open concept - LR, DR, EIK, Full Bath, In-unit Laundry – private parking – New Building “The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart key access.

N. Arlington - $3,250 –2 Bdrms - 1,453 Sq Ft Luxury Apt. - open concept - LR, DR, EIK, Full Bath, In-unit Laundry – private parking – New Building “The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart key access.

N. Arlington - $3,500

2 Bdrms - 1,206 Sq Ft Luxury Apt. - open concept - LR, DR, EIK, Full Bath, In-unit Laundry – private parking – New Building “The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart key access.

Kearny - $379,000

1 Fam.(mother/daughter) -

6 bdrms – 2 full baths – LR –DR- Ktchn’s unfin. Bsmnt-deck

N. Arlington - $3,500

2 Bdrms - 1,453 Sq Ft Luxury Apt. - Open concept - LR, DR, EIK, Full Bath, In-unit Laundry –private parking – New Building “The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart key access.

Continued from previous page

Jennifer Trzepla (Kevin) and their two children.

Professional Arrangements were entrusted to the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny.

Patricia A. Waskawich

Patricia A. Waskawich (nee Maleski) died June 29, 2023 at the West Caldwell Care Center.

She was 77.

Born in Newark, she was a lifelong Kearny resident.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at St. Michael’s R.C. Church in Lyndhurst. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.

Pat enjoyed her job at Star Light Photography Studio in Kearny where she was an assistant designer, touching up the studio’s photos.

The beloved wife of Kenneth Waskawich, she was the loving mother of Michele Mehl (Jonathan) and sister of Anthony Maleski (Barbara), William Maleski (Ruth), Anne Marie Fallon (the late Joseph Brady) and Robert Maleski (Nora). Also surviving are her cherished grandsons Corey and Ross.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or any veterans’ charity of your own choice, in Pat’s memory.

Lyndhurst -$2,550 2nd Floor Apt. - 3 Bdrms– LR–DR – 2 baths–laundry hook-ups in unit-additional attic storage.

KPD

Continued from Page 7

the Belleville Turnpike, which, Officer Oliveira noted, is closed at night.

The original witness responded and positively identified the detained individual as one of the two culprits.

The caller also identified the vehicle(s) that were subjected to burglary attempts. Based upon this development, officers arrested Nyieb Hastings, 24, of Newark. The second male, who reportedly fled on a bicycle, was not located.

While officers attempted to guide Hastings into the back of a patrol car, he refused to walk to

it and began shouting he would shoot and murder all officers involved in this incident. Officers were able to cajole Hastings into cooperating, and no force was required. Hastings was charged with attempted burglary and was later transported to the Hudson County Jail.

 Back in May, the Kearny Police Department fielded a report of a burglary and theft at LA Fitness. A victim reported the locker they were using had been broken into, and their belongings, including car keys, were taken. The burglar used the car keys to enter the victim’s vehicle and steal further belongings. The proceeds included the cash, credit and debit cards. The stolen cards were then

used at a local liquor store and at a smoke shop in Newark.

Detective Kyle Plaugic obtained security footage from multiple locations, depicting the suspect and his vehicle. After collaborating with other police agencies, Detective Plaugic identified the culprit as Ryan Archain, 23, of Hempstead, New York. The Edison Police Department reported Archain committed similar offenses at their LA Fitness. Ultimately, Detective Plaugic charged Archain on June 22 with burglary, two counts of theft, two counts of unlawful use of credit cards and other offenses.

A Central Judicial Processing court date in Hudson County is scheduled.

 Officers Jordan Miranda and Nick Funk were dispatched to the Target store for two shoplifters. Aellyn R. Batista-Guerrero, 18, of Newark and Diomari Pena-Lopez, 20, of Newark, had reportedly concealed a cumulative $647.03 worth of cosmetics and passed all points of sale. Both were arrested and charged with shoplifting. After receiving their future court dates, they were released from custody. A third person accompanying them at the time was banned from Target, but was not charged.

 Officers Andre Fernandes and Cort Montanino and Sgt. Jack Grimm were dispatched on June 25 to Laurel Avenue for a suspicious male acting erratical-

ly. Upon arriving, they say they spoke with an individual who pretended to tie his shoes, while concealing a quantity of pills into his sock.

Salvador L. Guerra, 32, of Kearny, was arrested, with a search revealing Alprazolam and Metoclopramide Hydrochloride pills. As officers attempted to take him into custody, Guerra began dropping his weight and resisting their control. He was arrested and later released, after being charged with various prescription legend drug offenses, as well as resisting arrest.

Because of space constraints, the remainder of this week’s Kearny Police Blotter appears online at www.theobserver.com

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Secretarial help wanted for small business run out of a office/home.Jobs include sorting emails, making phone calls, sorting information, filing papers. $15,00 per hour part time M-F or certain days per week.Please send your resume to steelstacks@pm.me preferably with your online LinkedIn or other such online information. 07W03

Accepting applications for a part-time Administrative Assistant. Valid driver’s license and multi-lingual are both pluses. The company is located near Kearny, NJ. Please send your resume and references to: internx2@gmail.com OR Admin, 108 Second Avenue Apartment 6B Bradley Beach, NJ 07720 09W03

Accepting applications for a full-time Painter and Maintenance Person. Valid driver’s license and multi-lingual are both pluses. The company is located near Kearny, NJ. Please send your resume and references to: internx2@gmail.com OR Maintenance, 108 Second Avenue Apartment 6B Bradley Beach, NJ 07720 09W03

The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for Registered Environmental Health Specialists (REHS). This is a contracted grant-funded position funded through June 30, 2024. Under direction of the Health Officer, responsibilities include, but are not limited to: lead inspections, sanitary inspections for compliance with applicable public and environmental health regulations, investigations of nuisance complaints and violations of applicable public health laws and ordinance, educational outreach activities, maintenance of accurate paper and electronic records of surveys, investigations, and inspections performed. The position may require periodic evening and/or weekend activities.

Must possess an active Registered Environmental Health Specialist License issued by the NJ Department of Health. Appointees will be required to possess a current driver’s license valid in New Jersey. $45-55/hour – Salary based on qualifications and experience. For Application go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ applications WDealine is 7/28/23

09W03

refinance because values are down? THINK AGAIN!

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Part Time/Full Time

Driver. Spanish speaking a plus. CDL. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM to 4 PM Only. Call 973-751-6000 or Fax resume to 973-751-1190. 518 Washington Ave.,Belleville 07W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Dishwasher wanted Part time Friday and Saturday nights in busy Lyndhurst restaurant Call (201)935-0004

08W03

NEEDED ASAP Apply in person: Office assistant / Customer service 260 Schuyler Ave Kearny,NJ,07032 No soliciting calls or emails

09W03

Want your ad to stand out from the rest?

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

HARRISON

ROOM FOR RENT

Midtown Pharmacy seeks a retail associate 30 hours weekly.

Background check required, apply in person to Midtown Pharmacy 581 kearny ave. NO phone calls please

07W03

Instructor Wanted part time afternoons. Must be reliable. Please email NJDRIVINGSCHOOL@ Hotmail.com or call (201)246-8000

08W03

Laundromat attendee wash/fold, phone, customer service. Part time . Experience only call Penny (862)763-1977

08W03

Try adding some c o

Find our how by calling The observer’s classified Department at (201) 991-1600 ToDAY!

SERVICES OFFERED

Certified aide seeks Position to take care of the elderly. Live in or out. Excellent references 973-763-1438 or 201-407-1903

07W03

NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031

BELLEVILLE Modern 2 BR Apt. C/A & H/T, Laundry room. 1 parking space. $2,000 +1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Smoking/Pets. Avl. Now. (201) 463-6684 08W03

HARRISON 2nd floor. Newly renovated 2 bedroom, LR, DR, EIK. 1 Bath. $1800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Available now. No smoking/pets. Credit check. 2 people preferred. Text or leave message after 3 pm. (973)445-1466 09W03

NORTH ARLINGTON

Studio $1200 + 1.5

Months security. Utilities included. No Pets/ No Smoking. 1 person only. Available Now (201)428-8815 08W03

KEARNY

HARRISON 3rd. fl. 1 BR, Kitchen, Dishwasher included & Bath, $1,250 + 1.5 months security. Heat Included. No Pets. References required. Call Donna. Avl. August 1st (973) 9025717 07W03

HARRISON 1 BR, 1 Bath, Full Kitchen, LR, DR. No Pets/Smoking. Avail. August 1st. Street Parking. $1450 + 1 1/2 months security. Laundry off site (973)5175333 07W03

HARRISON 2nd floor. Harrison Ave. 3 private BR’s, Large Kitchen, 1 Bath. Avl. Now Call (973)714-2368 or (201)463-6303 07W03

HARRISON 1st floor. 1 BR, LR, EIK, 1 bath, Laundry in unit. $1950 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included, including internet. Access to backyard patio. Close to Transportation. No Smoking/Pets Available Now (732)4299372 09W03

HARRISON New Home 2nd fl. 3 BR’s, 2 Baths. Close to transportation. No Pets/ Smoking. Available Now. (201)709-0645 or (973)741-8292

Leave Message. 09W03

HARRISON 110 Passaic Ave. 1st fl. 2 BR, Kitchen, LR, Bathroom. Good Condition. $1,700 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No pets/Smoking Avl. August 1st. or July 15th (973) 704-4246

09W03

N.ARLINGTON Desired location. Beautiful renovated apartment. Large rooms. 2 BR’s. EIK. LR/Dining raoom. $2300 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Hot water paid by owner. Plenty of public parking. Closed to transportation. No Pets/Smoking Available now (201)693-7771

09W03

KEARNY

KEARNY 1 BR & 2 BR also Hardwood floors , 1 BR $1,300 the 2 BR $1450 + 1 month security. HT/HW included No pets/smoking. Available now. For more Info Call 201306-2994 08W03

KEARNY 2 BR’s, LR, Kitchen, on Wilson Ave. $1,550 + 1.5 months security.Separate utilities. Parking for 1 car No pets. Avl. August 1st (201)893-1955 09W01

KEARNY 3rd Floor. 2 BR’s, LR, Newly tiled EIK, 1 Bath, 2 huge walk in closet’s. $2000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Water included. No Pets/ smoking. Background check. Available Now (973)932-5082 09W03

NUTLEY

NUTLEY 1st Fl. Move In condition 2 BR’S ,Combo kitchen/LR , AC provided $1,700 + 1.5 month security, No pets, No smoking, Close to NY transportation. Call Tom 973-5177517 Couple preferred. Available August 1st Leave a message 09W03

LOOKING TO RENT

In Kearny, N.Arlington, Lyndhurst. E.Rutherford in Nice condition for 2 very neat adult sisters. 2 BR’S. wood floor preferred. Cat friendly (732)790-9382 or (908)324-3951 07W03

KEARNY 1 room. Share Kitchen & Bath. $575 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included. Men Preferred. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)290-2788 09W03

NUTLEY

NUTLEY 1 room for rent. share kitchen. private entrance. $600, utilities included. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now call after 5PM (973)868-6614 08W03

Miss a classified that caught your eye a week ago?

Threw your newspaper away already?

Don’t worry – our classifieds are all online and date back to 2014. Visit

Joe’s Deli wins softball championship!

PARKING

2 Commercial parking spaces available in Nutley, NJ up to 24 ft. (201) 390-1729

Koz from Harrison your handyman specialist, we do all types of types of Painting,flooring, clean outs, etc, 862-452-5497 10% discount for seniors and veterans. Fully Insured

Joe’s Deli’s senior league softball team has won its second-straight Kearny championship. The team lost just one game the entire 2023 season. The team consists of, standing from left, Jolianna Escalante, Kayla Hansen, assistant coach Oscar Escalante, Juannis Rios, Jaslyn Aponte, head coach Junior Gonzalez, Lilian Gonzalez and Lexi Figueiredo. Front row, from left, are Cassandra Montalvo, Casper Retana, Lexi Duarte. Not pictured are Madison Rodriguez and assistant Coach Jessica Melendez.

Jean’s grass hedges and tree trimmings On the spot will get it done! Our prices and service will be the best. Senior Discount (201)565-6393

Continued from Page 1

his candidacy, walking doorto-door with him and encouraging his constituents to vote for him.

But Santana says he wanted to table the resolution until the next council meeting. He made that request prior to the voting portion of the meeting.

Votes like this were very common — in the late 1990s. But they became a thing of the past under Santos.

In voting “no,” Zapata remained completely silent otherwise. Eckel prefaced her words with, “no offense, Jerry, but no.” Santana said, “nothing against Jerry, but no.” And Theodoropoulous said, “no offense, Jerry, it’s more of the context, but no.”

RUNNING

Continued from Page 1

betterment of the people of the Town of Kearny. And I believe in many ways, I have left an strong impact on our wonderful town.

“In 1996, I was fortunate to run for and win a seat on Kearny’s Town Council. My father-inlaw, Norman Doyle Sr., had it in his blood. And in so many ways, it was his magnificent influence that translated into my desire to take my journey of service to new heights as an elected official.

“Because of his influence, I truly believe I have been an example of selfless dedication — never really wanting to seek the limelight, but being there in the shadows, so that others could succeed and prosper. I’ve always said doing things for the praise and glory means you’re doing it for the wrong reasons, but doing things for the betterment others and keeping quiet about it means the most.

“And yes, while I am being very public right now, I have never done anything for me. I have, however, always done everything for you.

“I raised my family here, watching my daughter become a successful County Prosecutor after law school. My son proudly works for the

school system and is very dedicated to his craft. And my late husband, Norman Doyle Jr., served as town municipal judge and town attorney for many years, in addition to his own private practice.

“As I look at the journey I took to get here, I know it all started with a simple meeting with a few friends who believed I would be a good councilwoman. Never did I dream it would last for 27+ years. And it is for all of these reasons combined that I announce today my candidacy, today, for Mayor of the Town of Kearny.

“This will bring my career full circle. And it is something I think I have earned — and must do. And as I stand here today, I pledge not to make a career of this. In fact, it is my hope to finish the term of our former mayor, Alberto Santos, who has served our town with distinction, class and honor. I want to see his term to conclusion before I head off into my golden years. And I want to do all it takes to continue to build on the wonderful legacy Mayor Santos leaves us.

“Our diverse town continues to prosper in so many ways. I ask you to join me for the next 2½ years — no less, no more — to allow the great things that have happened over the last few decades to continue to happen and to continue to make this the great town we all care for and love so much.”

ATVs

Continued from Page 4

top issue for the attorney general, rather than directing our police departments to just blindly stand down,” Melham said. “So, because the ongoing issue in Belleville along with many other suburban and urban communities, I must ask Gov. Murphy: ‘What’s the difference?’”

Belleville moved to pass the resolution after it became the latest municipality to see a surge in nuisance ATV and motorbike use.

A disturbing video captured dozens of ATV and motorbike riders roaring down Washington Avenue. Many of them were recklessly riding on their back tires as motorists hurried to move out of their way.

To minimize these kinds of incidents, several municipal -

ities have adopted ordinances making it illegal for gas stations to fuel up ATVs and motorbikes at their pumps.

Melham said Belleville officials are also working on introducing a similar ordinance, he but doesn’t think that it can go far enough to stop the rise in illegal ATV and motorbike use.

“There’s only one thing that will help keep our roadways safe from these brazen bad actors, and that’s restoring the police’s ability to pursue and arrest them,” Melham said. “I hope our state officials realize the gravity of the situation. I hope it doesn’t take a horrific accident or the death of law-abiding motorists to realize we need to give police every chance to stop these riders.”

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.

www.lusitaniabank.com/mortgages

Payment Example: $8.17 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 5.500% will result in 180 payments of $817.08. 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 taxes, fees, insurance premiums or other related costs. Annual percentage rate (APR) based on $100,000.00 loan with a 15-year or 30-year amortization term. Financing on owner occupied residential 1-4 family properties located in Essex, Union, Hudson and Bergen Counties. Minimum finance charge of $455.00. Owner occupied rate. New loans only. Rates and annual percentage rates are based on 80% loan to value with 20% equity or 20% down payment. Rates and annual percentages are effective as of the publication date of this ad and are subject to change. Please speak with our Mortgage Department for additional terms and conditions that may apply. Subject to credit approval. Other rates and programs are available.

Essex, Union, Hudson and now Bergen County