e-Newspaper for Sept. 20, 2023

KEARNY TO KEWASKUM

Retired NJ EMT Martin Nystrom, who spent several days at Ground Zero in 2001, delivers keynote at Wisconsin’s official Sept. 11 memorial

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

If you’ve known Martin “Marty” Nystrom, of Kearny, for a while, there are several givens most will recall about him.

On or around and in the summer months before Sept. 11, the anniversary of the worst day in modern American history, you will find him doing several things. First, it will be his taking groups

of Junior Police Academy cadets from Kearny, Harrison and East Newark on solemn journeys to Ground Zero, where he leads them on tours of the site of that most fateful day (on separate occasions, we might add all on his own dime and time.)

Then, he will be found annually at Kearny High School leading a remembrance for the students of the school so the memory of that day will be kept alive forever. It’s remarkable dedication

he shows at all of these aforementioned events and it’s all because for days, right after the towers fell 22+ years ago, he worked at the pit in Lower Manhattan when he served as the chief of the Maplewood Rescue Squad.

What he went through that day never left his mind, his spirit. And it has transcended into thousands of people learning about that day, and its aftermath, for

decades, because of him. And while all of these things are impressive, it was what he went through on the actual 22nd anniversary of the attacks that may rank among the greatest of them all: Nystrom was invited to deliver the keynote at Wisconsin’s official Sept. 11, 2001, memorial which he did and more.

tal. The beam points east toward New York City.

Mr. Haberman got in touch with Trinity Church in Manhattan, where each year, now, Nystrom reads the names of the people who have died from Sept. 11-related complications in the year just gone by. That number, sadly, continues to get higher and higher.

Mr. Haberman asked Trinity to find someone who was an EMT that day and who had a story to tell and sure enough, that was the easy part. And it was fate that it would be Nystrom chosen.

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The invitation came from a man called Gordon Haberman, whose daughter, Andrea, was in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001, for a three-day business trip, the first business trip she’d ever taken. She was on the 89th floor of the North Tower, and didn’t make it home, despite what reports indicate was a valiant effort by Andrea and her colleagues to escape the Tower that day.

“All three stairwells were

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filled with rubble,” Mr. Haberman told Fox 6 in Milwaukee.

“Of course, the elevators were gone. The doors blew out. She was on the phone with her co-worker in Chicago, describing the view of the Statue of Liberty, when the (first) plane hit (just a couple of floors above her.)”

Mr. Haberman is a huge part of the Wisconsin 9/11 Memorial committee, where he is one of the state’s most prolific donors and, which, somehow, took until 2021 to build. Think bureaucratic red tape. A magnificent beam culled from the North Tower, where Andrea was that day, sits atop of pentagon-shaped pedes-

Nystrom agreed to fly out to Wisconsin, and journey to the town of Kewaskum population 4,004 as of 2010 where the memorial lives.

Marty’s trip and keynote, however, almost fell apart before it got to happen.

His original flight from EWR was canceled, and one might say that was almost destined to happen since the weather wasn’t

Continued on the next page

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Screencap

When he was in Wisconsin, Marty Nystrom’s speech at the 9/11 Memorial there was covered by numerous Milwaukee news affiliates, including Fox 6, seen here.

stellar. But it was actually the same airline, United, that came to the rescue, finding him a flight to Chicago.

So Nystrom flew to Chicago instead, fortunately only about 90 miles more, where he met a relative of Mr. Haberman’s who drove him to Wisconsin — then Mr. Haberman shuttled him the rest of the way to Kewaskum, around 45 miles from Milwaukee.

Now that Nystrom was finally there, it was time to get to work. But before we get to all of this, there was a another big reason why Nystrom was asked to be the keynote that we failed to mention earlier. In what might be called the heyday for volunteers rescue squads, there were 465 of them in the Garden State. Now, that number has fallen by at least 200.

Wisconsin, the Badger State, is experiencing a similar fate. And organizers were hoping Nystrom would be able to offer advice as to how to improve that reality. And he did that, though it remains to be seen whether governments in the two states will actually heed his advice.

Now, the overcast weather forecast for Sept. 11, 2023 ultimately forced what is traditionally an outdoor ceremony, inside. The place, Nystrom tells us, was packed to the gills, with a standing-room-only crowd of 200 or so onlookers, many of whom were youngsters who get this traveled nearly three hours to get there from other parts of Wisconsin. The ceremony started at 11 a.m. that morning, and those kids had arrived at 9:30 so one could only guess what time they had to get up to begin their vehicular journey to Kewaskum.

Nystrom delivered his always-stirring speech.

“There were literally thousands of you cheering us on as we were coming in and going out,” Nystrom says in his speech, captured by Fox 6 Milwaukee. “Imagine that? Just people of all walks and they were throwing water bottles at us (nicely), chocolate bars, packs of cigarettes, cigars, shoes, socks, underwear, clothes it didn’t stop. We couldn’t believe it.”

Then he and other speakers recalled how HIPAA regulations yeah, HIPAA regulations have caused so many volunteer squads to shut down. Then, the next day, he delivered two more unplanned talks one to ninth-graders at Kewaskum High School and the other to fourth- and fifth-graders at an elementary school in the town.

It also was all a reminder to the EMT veteran how now, even 22 years later, it is vital for folks to remember the horrors of that day of terror.

“Our parents’ generation had Pearl Harbor,” he says. “That day, 9/11, was a call to arms. We can never be too busy to remember the (2,900+) people who died. If we keep forgetting, we stop being the nation we were after that all happened.”

Nystrom also says he was quite enamored by Mr. Haberman, his family and all the wonderful people he met in Wisconsin, old and especially young.

“Being a first-responder is a calling,” Nystrom says. “I always tell the younger kids when you get to be 15, 16, 17, 18 you won’t just feel this one morning. The calling is something to embrace. Chase it. We could really use your help!”

Wisconsin’s 9/11 Memorial, seen here, is culled from a piece of steel taken from the North Tower of the World Trade Center. It is pointed east, toward New York, and it rests upon a pentagon-shaped pedestal.

Photo by Martin Nystrom

WHAT’S WITH ALL THESE SIGNS?

We were wondering why they popped up, so we dug in to find out the reason

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

If you’ve driven on any number of highways in North Jersey in the past week or so, chances are you’ve probably seen one of these new, somewhat alarming signs. They read: “Suspect Terrorism? See Something, Say Something — 866-4-SAFENJ.”

So where did these signs

come from?

Well, it turns out it’s a joint effort of the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Transportation and the New Jersey Turnpike Authority.

On Sept. 6, the aforementioned “announced” (not well, we might add) the launch of its “See Something, Say Something” public safety campaign

in addition to variable message signs around the state to remind drivers along the state’s major interstates to remain vigilant and report potential threats and suspicious activity related to terrorism or other criminal activity. Only thing is, no one seemed to know about the

program until we did a little digging. In fact, we spoke with several high-ranking law-enforcement officials who told us they had no idea why the signs had been popping up. And, very few media outlets in North Jersey have reported them.

The campaign runs Sep -

tember through mid-February and includes nearly 200 of the message signs promoting NJOHSP’s suspicious activity reporting number across the New Jersey Turnpike and Interstate Highways, including I-78, I-195 and I-280 as well as

See SIGNS, Page 19

fixed 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.

Payment Example: $8.51 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 6.125% will result in 180 payments of $850.62. Payment Example: $6.57 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 30-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 6.875% will result in 360 payments of $656.93. Actual monthly payment may be higher because example does not include

KPD: Woman driving on suspended license blows past school bus with red lights on, stop sign extended

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. with Det. Sgt. Mike Gontarczuk www.theobserver.com

Awoman whose suspended license didn’t have too much of an effect on her and whose regard for the safety of schoolchildren on Midland Avenue was far from stellar was arrested by the Kearny Police Department after she allegedly tried to pass an disembarking school bus that had activated its stop signs and red lights, Det. Sgt. Michal Gontarczuk, of the Kearny PD, said.

On Sept. 12, Officer Andre Fernandes says he was patrolling Midland Avenue near Lincoln School and the charter school at a busy time, with children all about the area. A yellow school bus was stopped, dropping off children with the lights engaged and the stop sign deployed out into the roadway, and it was clearly visible.

Then, a Toyota, driven by a person who must have valued her own time more than children’s safety, apparently decided to drive around the school bus and its extended stop sign.

Officer Fernandes conducted an MV stop and learned driver Sharon Wolffe, 43, of East Newark, didn’t have a valid driver’s license — it was suspended. She couldn’t produce insurance either. She was arrested for driving while suspended, as well as failure to possess a driver’s license, failure to possess insurance, and passing a school bus while picking up or discharging passengers. Further, an active warrant was outstanding for her arrest, issued by Chesterfield (N.J.); however, they could not respond to take custody of her, so rather than having to take a trip to Chesterfield (we understand that’s in Burlington County) a new court date was issued and Wolffe was instead released on her own recognizance.

In July, a shoplifting at Walmart turned into a robbery when one of two actors allegedly used force against loss

POLICE BEAT

prevention staff while fleeing. The suspects loaded merchandise into a Dodge Durango with no license plates and took off.

Det. Kyle Plaugic investigated the matter and used security camera footage to identify the actors. Walmart staff were presented with a photo array and identified the suspects.

Det. Plaugic also used social media and digital investigative tools to confirm his findings.

When Plaugic called one of the suspects, Jonathan Rivera, 27, of Newark, to let him know that he was identified, the man hung up the phone and would not cooperate. Ultimately, warrants were issued for him and Tiffany A. Reyes, 27, also of Newark, charging each with conspiracy to commit robbery, but neither turned themselves in.

On Sept. 7, however, the Elizabeth Police Department picked up Rivera on the Kearny warrant, and custody of him was transferred to the KPD. He was processed and taken to the Hudson County Jail, South Kearny. Reyes remains at-large.

On Sept. 8 at 1 a.m., Officer Thomas Collins was patrolling Passaic Avenue near Johnston Avenue, when he observed a 2013 Fiat swerving out of its lane of travel and into oncoming traffic. The vehicle turned onto Belgrove Drive, except (again) into the oncoming lane of traffic rather than the right side of the road (driving on the left is OK in many British Commonwealth nations, but as you know, America is not a part of the commonwealth.)

This all continued, until Officer Collins initiated a motor-vehicle stop. When Collins contacted the driver, his eyes were bloodshot, his statements were incoherent and his speech was slurred. A strong odor of alcohol was

See KPD, Page 18

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OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

It was President Abraham Lincoln who said “the dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, we must think anew, and act anew.”

In just a few short months, New Jersey citizens will be electing to office individuals seeking seats on school boards, city councils, the state Assembly, the state Senate, and several other local, county, and national political offices.

At no other time in our history have we been faced with making choices that will either destine us to a final chapter in our way of life or the beginning of a new chapter that leads us toward a return to our “Shining City on a Hill.”

It is no secret the Democratic Party has led us down a path that is wrecking our economy, chipping away at our individual rights, replacing education with indoctrination in our public school system and advancing polices that replace parental rights with government controlling mandates.

Many say that all politics is local. And indeed, it is. Although most people will say that many local elections such as school boards and municipal elections are non-partisan, the reality is that most if not all candidates for these offices belong to a political party. One would be naïve to believe that these candidates do not carry their political party ideology with them to the office they are seeking to be elected to.

And that is exactly what has happened across America from school boards to the White House. The liberal Democratic Party has supported candidates with little or no interest in the rights of the people. The Democratic Party supports

government control over our lives. Period!

Remember NJ Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy in April of 2020 when he was asked about his executive orders possibly violating the Bill of Rights?

“That’s above my pay grade,” He answered.

Or what about when last week a reporter questioned Democratic New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham about her not upholding her oath to the Constitution after temporarily banning guns in her state. She argued that no Constitutional rights were fixed, including her oath. Wow!

And what about California Democrats poised to pass legislation that would take children away from parents who won’t help them get sex changes. I have not heard one peep of criticism from any Democratic political leader anywhere about these insane statements and policies.

So, what does this have to do with you? Look at the common denominator. All Democratic Party politicians. And don’t think it can’t happen in your town, city or state. It can and will if you are not vigilant.

In the times in which we live, the Republican Party, although not perfect, is our last best hope to ensure our nation, state, and municipalities a return to a time when the people, not the government will determine our destiny.

Now is our time to restore the vision our Founding Fathers had for this nation by advancing values that are grounded in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution of the United States.

Now is our time to unite and embrace the heart, soul, and spirit of every citizen from all walks of life and invite them into our big Republican tent and join this fight for the survival of our

By Steven L. Rogers Nutley

country from local to national government offices.

Now is our time, right here in your municipality and State of New Jersey, to support candidates for public office who embrace time tested values that have strengthened and improved our way of life. Values that are articulated in the Bill of Rights and Constitution of the United States.

Now is our time to let the entire nation know that citizens in your municipality and our state of New Jersey will not sit idly by and allow the Democratic Party to continue tearing down our way of life, freedoms, and individual rights.

Now is our time, to support candidates who will stand shoulder to shoulder with We the People in our fight to preserve our God given gifts of freedom and liberty. For many months we have awakened each day to Democratic Party messages of dark winters for

America. Well, my message as a Republican and proud American to that political party is this: America was founded on a single principle, freedom. Our founding fathers agreed that liberty required eternal vigilance. And it is our duty as Americans to always stay vigilant.

President Ronald Reagan once said, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.”

I do not want our generation to be the generation that led our freedom to extinction. Every citizen needs to get involved in the fight to preserve our freedom. This fight begins with discussions at the dinner table in each one of our homes and with our friends and neighbors by informing each other about the urgency of the need to get

involved in the political process from local to national levels.

We Americans have a song to sing and a story to tell our children and grandchildren. Not from a music sheet of gloom and doom or a story book about dark days from individuals who are trying to take our freedoms away, but from a music sheet of a sweet song about an America that always has a bright sunrise ahead.

The music sheet is our National Anthem and America the Beautiful. Our story is our Constitution and Declaration of Independence. And the singers and authors of both, have been in the past, is now and will always be in the future WE THE PEOPLE! I know this Op-Ed has ruffled the feathers of some Democrats, but I cited facts that cannot be disputed. You had your time. Now is our time!

Steven Rogers was a Nutley Commissioner from 2012-2020 (He term limited himself). He is a retired Nutley police lieutenant and U.S. Navy Commander. He is presently president/CEO of Campaign4America.com and was a Trump adviser in 2020.

Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com

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Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster

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Lyndhurst Car Show set for early next month at Town Hall Park

Lyndhurst’s second-annual Car Show, sponsored by Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso, the Lyndhurst Board of Commissioners and numerous local businesses, is set for Sunday, Oct. 1, from noon to 5 p.m. at Town Hall Park, Delafield and Valley Brook avenues. The rain date is Oct. 8.

Live music will be provided on the big stage by the Cameos. Food and beverages will be sold by street vendors. If the car show must be postponed by the weather, the Cameos will still perform, but indoors at the Lyndhurst Middle School.

For those who bring their cars, there will be a $20 entrance fee per vehicle. No pre-registration is required, but day-of registration will kick off at 9 a.m.

Trophies will be awarded for all car classes. Donations will also be accepted at the show to benefit the Csapo Family.

NEWS BRIEFS

Auditions upcoming for WHATCo’s ‘Best Christmas Pageant Ever’

The West Hudson Arts & Theater Co. hosts open auditions for “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at the Theater at WHATCo, 15 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. S., Harrison, Tuesday, Sept. 26 and Wednesday, Sept. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. Call backs will be Thursday, Sept. 28th from 7 to 9 p.m.

Performances, directed by Francesca Stokes and stage managed by Bernadette Oberndorf, run from Dec. 1 to Dec. 10.

Mary Robinson’s “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” is based on her novel of the same name. The large cast and age range make this show a community favorite, in which a varied, multi-generational group of performers may come together.

All actors of any background in second-grade and older may audition. However, auditioners younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times during auditions. Those unable to

attend in person may submit a video audition via YouTube and completed audition form and conflicts calendar to ChristmasPageant@whatconj. org by Sept. 25. Visit www.whatconj.org/ ChristmasPageant for more details and to download an audition packet.

Mushroom World photo station, Mario Kart face painting booth, Superstar sand art booth and Fire Flower balloon sculpting will all be available for the kids.

The evening will also feature food and sweets for sale. Free popcorn will be available during the movie, which begins at 8 p.m.

‘Super

Mario Bros Movie’ set for Friday at Arlington Depot Park

Kearny’s Recreation Department and Urban Enterprise Zone have teamed up to launch the first-ever Kearny Family Movie Night & Festival with a free screening of the “Super Mario Bros. Movie,” Friday, Sept. 22 at Arlington Depot Park (Garofalo Place between Elm and Forest streets.)

Grab a chair (or a blanket) for what is expected to be the first in a series of movie nights that will also feature themed family-friendly activities and fun.

At 5:30 p.m., “Luigi’s Mansion” bounce house, a meet and greet with Mario and Princess Peach, a

The event will take place regardless of the weather. For more information, visit www.kearnynj.org or send an email to familymovienights@ kearnynj.org.

Elks’ soccer shoot planned next month

The North Central District of the Elks host a soccer shoot for boys and girls, aged 5 to 13, Sunday, Oct. 8, from 10 a.m. to noon at Gunnell Oval, 520 Schuyler Ave., Kearny. Admission is free. Cleats may not be worn. Parents must bring a birth certificate for their children to prove age. Winners will advance to a statewide competition. For more information, call or text Chris at (201) 772-8013.

Kearny officers ride in the 2023 Tour de Force

MORE NEWS BRIEFS

Thursday, Sept. 21, at Queen of Peace Church.

Each year, members of the Kearny Police Department ride in the Tour de Force for 9/11 to raise funds. Seen here is a number of the Kearny officers who rode this year, from left, Kevin Matos with the hoodie up, an officer from another department (sorry), Ryan Wilson in the back, Jason Rodrigues, Mat Lopez, Det, Sgt, Mike Gonzalez and Det. Jordenson Jean.

Kearny UNICO sponsors its fall bus trip to the Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Sunday, Sept. 24. The cost is $40 per person with a $25 slot voucher back from the casino. The trip departs from American Legion Post 99 on Belgrove Drive at 9 a.m. “Coffee and …” begins at 7:45 a.m., inside the Legion Hall. For tickets, contact Lou Pandolfi at (201) 693-8504 or lpandolfi@verizon.net.

Knights hosting prayer service for Our Lady of Guadalupe

The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus invite all to join with them at a Silver Rose Prayer Service in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe at Queen of Peace Church in North Arlington, beginning at 7 p.m.,

Knights end-of-summer BBQ set for Oct. 1

The Knights say goodbye to summer with its annual fall BBQ, Oct. 1 at 1 p.m. at Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road. The Knights will serve hot dogs, hamburgers and cheeseburgers, sweet sausage, lemon-peppered chicken tenders, potato and macaroni salad, corn-on-the-cob, dessert and refreshments.

The cost is $25 per person and $15 for kids ages 6 to 11. Reservations must be made by calling (201) 988-0183 by Wednesday, Sept. 27. The Knights ask all attending to consider donating a non-expired, non-perishable can good for the Food for Families project. Wear your favorite football team’s jersey, too.

NCI Designated

RWJ-184 USNWR_Cancer_SYSTEM_9.75x5.185.indd 1 9/7/23 3:35 PM

Photo courtesy of PO Rich Poplaski Jr.

Kearny UNICO sponsoring casino bus trip

SPORTS & HEALTH

Harrison boys soccer gains clarity as it starts title defense

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

When preseason practices began for the Harrison boys soccer team in August, there was a sense of mystery and uncertainty. New faces had moved into the town, potentially giving a boost to an already talented lineup. But on the flip side, not only was there the task of replacing 11 graduating seniors from last year’s North 2, Group 2 championship team, but injury as well as some missing people during the summer left a roster that was talented, but also one filled with questions.

Three games into the season, veteran head coach Mike Rusek Jr. is starting to see clarity and a renewed optimism that the

Blue Tide will once again be in the mix in both Hudson County and Group 2.

“I’m hoping this is the start of something for us,” Rusek said after Friday night’s 3-1 win at New Brunswick, which improved the team’s record to 2-1.

“I think in the end everything has kinda fallen into place the last two weeks. I feel like we might not get there (fully) till October, but we’ll get there.”

One place Rusek hasn’t had any concerns about is in net where senior Ismael Kone back at goalkeeper following last year’s breakout state tournament run.

Kone, who shared the starting spot most of last season has seized the starting role to himself after a strong summer.

“He really is looking to finish his high school career on a great note,” said Rusek. “He’s determined this year that the team is going to be good and he’s going to be a big part of it.”

Seniors Jonathan Hermo and Ariel Lopez will also see time in net over the course of the year as well.

Three seniors currently man the back line for the Blue Tide with Cesar Escobar and Leonardo Betancourth starting as the outside backs and Randy Abarca at one of the center back spots. Junior Nick Vergaray is starting at the other center back spot, a position Rusek is hopeful will be bolstered by a midseason return of

See HARRISON, Page 10

Belleville

girls

soccer builds off strong finish, starts season with four straight wins

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

It was a finish that largely went unnoticed, but despite not qualifying for the state tournament last year, Belleville’s girls soccer team closed the the season with six consecutive wins and some momentum heading into the offseason.

“It was big for them (to finish strong),” second year head coach Jennifer Alves said about her team, which also got a taste of what it’s like to face some of the area’s top teams in the Montclair State Summer League before the season. “They were obviously upset with not making states. Last season was a tough one for us being in the (Super Essex Conference) Liberty Division. We had a few close games, close losses. As the season went on, we finished with the winning streak and our returners really looked forward to the season and picking up where they left off.”

The start of the new season has seen those winning ways continue as the Buccaneers opened with four consecutive victories, defeating Golda Och, Linden, Newark Tech and McNair by a combined score of 18-7.

Combined with last year’s finish, Belleville has won 10 in a row, a dramatic turn-

around after starting last season, 1-11.

“They’re enjoying the fact that we started off 4-0,” said Alves, not sure how many of her players are aware of the streak. “They’re riding on this season high and I think some are forgetting about how he finished last year.”

One part of the team that has remained intact since last season has been the backline. Senior sweeper Julia Rasczyk is a four-year starter and leads the unit that also features returning starters Ashley Rodriguez at stopper and Arianna Navarrette at left back.

At right back, junior Sheyla Solano-Torres has filled in and done a fine job for the injured Valery Chumbimue, who when she returns will give the Bucs four returning starters on the back line.

“Having that be the one stable part of our team has been a lifesaver for us just having those girls that are familiar with each other and playing together,” Alves said. “Julia is a four-year varsity starter and a captain. She holds down the back line. Those other girls have stepped into their role and been amazing.”

It has helped ease the transition to varsity soccer for sophomore Emely Bartra, a first-year starter at

See BELLEVILLE, Page 10

Photo courtesy of Sean Dolaghan

HARRISON

Continued from Page 9

Anthony Bento, a senior working his way back from injury.

Junior Chris Perreira has also seen extensive time at the outside back spots for Harrison.

Mattheus Iwamoto, a junior who moved to Harrison from Japan, is the defensive, center-midfield.

Sophomore Christian Barrios and senior Eann Vieira (two goals, one assist) are both returning starters in the midfield. Junior Joel Rueda is

BELLEVILLE

Continued from Page 9

goalie.

While Bartra is starting to make a name for herself, another sophomore, Roslyn

an attacking midfielder, who will often move up to striker as can promising freshman Pedro Barreto Reis.

Senior Renzo Chung and junior Josue Samayoa also have key roles off the bench in a midfield that will be further fortified in a couple of weeks when senior Javier Castillo becomes eligible at the end of the month after transferring from Kearny.

Harrison is once again dynamic up top with Diego Flores Sanchez and Yusufu Jaite both back. Flores Sanchez, who scored the winning goal in the Blue Tide’s North 2, Group 2

Almodovar, is starting to emerge as one of the better midfielders in Essex County. Almodovar, who had 10 goals and nine assists as a freshman, looks poised to smash those marks this year, already totaling seven goals

title game against Voorhees, has three goals and two assists in his fourth varsity season.

Jaite, a junior, seems primed for a breakout season with two goals and three assists so far. Rusek believes the striker is as fast as anyone in the state, while also developing his on-ball skills at the famed Harrison Courts.

“It seems like he gets quicker and quicker. I’ve never seen anyone that fast. He’s so fast and his skill has developed,” Rusek said. “He’s developed that part of his game where his touch is pretty nice and it’s soft and he can control the ball.”

and four assists, highlighted by a four-goal outburst vs. Newark Tech.

For good measure, Almodovar is also a strong defender making her equally comfortable as a holding midfielder if the situation warrants it.

Harrison looks to build upon Friday’s win at New Brunswick and extend its two-game winning streak with home division contests against Weehawken on Tuesday and Secaucus on Thursday. An Oct. 7 showdown against Essex County Tournament finalist Newark East Side highlights the rest of the regular season slate that includes two games with division rival North Arlington as well as one more with Lyndhurst, following a wild 5-4 win over the Golden Bears this past Wednesday.

But for a program that holds 25 state championships on its

“She reads the game so well and if she’s realizing they’re on the attack more she tends to stay more defensive and attacks when she can,” said Alves. “She holds down my entire midfield. She’s just a phenomenal player and she really reads the game so well and knows exactly what to do, when to do it. She needs very little correcting and is just an

resume, Rusek knows the goals revolve around late October and November and the Hudson County and state tournaments. And after some uncertainty a few weeks ago, he believes this team will once again prove to be a stronger contender in both.

“Every year we still feel like we can go compete for that Group 2 state championship, win that (North 2) section and this year has a lot of that as well,” said Rusek. “Over the course of the season, there’s going to be things that don’t work for you, but our eyes are always on going deep in November.”

overall great player.”

Junior Leila Estrada joins Almodovar in the center midfield. Junior Kayla Solano-Torres, Sheyla’s twin sister, is on the right wing, with Katherine Espinoza (three goals) currently on the left. Sheyla Solano-Torres will return to see extensive

Continued on the next page

time on the outside when the Bucs are at full strength. In addition, Angela Chavez, Sam Jara and Eliana Vazquez see minutes at midfield.

Junior Chayla Murdock (two goals, one assist) is a returning starter at one forward sport. At the other forward has been freshman Janaina Chauca, who has proven to be an immediate game-changer.

Chauca scored two goals in her first game and has five with an assist so far this season.

“She hit the ground running and has made an impression,” said Alves. “The sky’s the limit on her because she’s a great player.”

Michaelle Portilla and Dahianny Abreu provided added depth at forward as well.

Belleville looks to extend its winning ways against SEC

Colonial Division foes East Orange on Thursday and Orange on Saturday. After moving down in divisions this season, the Bucs have upped its independent schedule as future matchups with Nutley, Bloomfield, Newark East Side and Cedar Grove await in October.

Alves also hopes those later games help serve as preparation for a state tournament appearance, something they didn’t get to experience a year ago.

“My starting returning varsity players feel (unsatisfied) because last year we didn’t get a chance at a state tournament game,” Alves said. “That left a bitter taste in their mouths and they’re really looking forward to this season with the group that we have and really trying to make a run.”

C ELEBRATING 25 Y EARS !

EYE CARE

DeLuca Vision Consultants

EARLY CHILDHOOD RETINOBLASTOMA

Retinoblastoma is a rare form of eye cancer that starts in the retina if the nerve cells develop genetic mutations. It can affect adults but mostly occurs in infants and young children. Symptoms include poor vision, eye swelling and redness, eyes that appear to be looking in different directions, and white color in the center of pupil when light is shone in the eye (such as a camera flash). One in three children with the disease have congenital retinoblastoma, with a gene mutation present at birth in both eyes. Two in three affected children will have sporadic retinoblastoma, which develops after birth in one eye. The tumors that form from retinoblastoma can lead

to glaucoma and vision loss. Make an appointment with your child’s doctor if you notice any changes to your child’s eyes that concern you. Retinoblastoma is a rare cancer, so your child’s doctor may explore other more common eye conditions first. To schedule an appointment, please call 201-896-0096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. Call 201-8960007 if you need to reach our optical shop. We accept most insurance.

P.S. Retinoblastoma can spread to other areas of the body including the brain, spine, lymph nodes, and organs. Most cases are discovered and treated before they spread.

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Alves Back Row (left to right): Michelle Portilla, Dahianny Abreu, Janaina Chauca, Katherine Espinoza, Samantha Jara, Angela Chavez, Eliana Vasquez, Ashley Rodriguez, Emely Bartra. Front Row (left to right): Roslyn Almodovar, Arianna Navarrette, Chayla Murdock, Julia Rasczyk, Kayla Solano-Torres, Sheyla Solano-Torres, Leila Estrada.

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

McGeehan, Rodriguez produce big numbers, earn first wins at QB

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

To say that Sean McGeehan and Luis Rodriguez entered the preseason without much experience at quarterback would have been quite the understatement. Not only had the projected starters at North Arlington and Kearny respectively never played a varsity snap at the position, neither had done it in many years, if at all, on any level of football.

Based on their respective performances this weekend, you never would have realized that they were newcomers to

the position.

On Friday night, Rodriguez, a junior, ran for 11 yards and three touchdowns, while also throwing for 70 yards with a TD to help lead Kearny to a 43-8 victory over Ferris. He also had a fumble return for a touchdown, an interception and a safety on defense.

Less than 24 hours later, it was McGeehan who went a perfect 7-for-7 through the air for 205 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 38 yards and a TD as North Arlington went to Saddle Brook and earned a 41-12 win.

It was the first career win at quarterback for the two firstyear signal callers, as well as the first victory of the season

for their respective teams.

The stellar performances of Rodriguez and McGeehan make them The Observer Co-Athletes of the Week.

“I’m pleasantly surprised at how quickly (Luis is) excelling,” Kearny head coach John Policano said. “His confidence and leadership on the field are growing.”

“Despite having an 0-2 record coming in, Sean had played really well and exceeded expectations for sure,” said North Arlington head coach Joe Borkowski. “His numbers through three games really show how smart and athletic he is.”

See ATHLETES, Page 13

LET’S BE HONEST

Dr. Maria Domingues Lic # 27OA00630100

Dr. Jayswinder Kaur Lic# 27OA00689700

Dr. Carla Domingues Lic # 27OA00646200

Lic # 27OA00716500

Being honest with your medical doctor is crucial for your health and well-being. It is essential to provide them with accurate information about your medical history, current symptoms, and lifestyle habits to ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Lying or withholding information can have serious consequences, such as misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, or adverse drug interactions. Doctors are bound by confidentiality and will not judge or share your information with others without your consent. Being open and truthful with your doctor can help build trust, improve communication, and ultimately lead to better health outcomes. It’s important to remember that your doctor is there to help you and that honesty is the best policy when it

comes to your health.

By building a trusting and honest relationship, doctors and patients can work together so that the best care is provided. 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. Our vision is to partner with patients and families to achieve wellness and health from an office that is invested in their local community.

P.S. Being truthful about lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking, or drug use can help your doctor provide advice on healthy lifestyle changes that can prevent or manage health conditions.

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

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

Photos by Jason Bernstein Sean McGeehan Luis Rodriguez

Antonio Amado

Antonio Amado died Sept. 10, 2023.

He was 77.

Born in Castinieras Galicia, Spain, he lived in Kearny before moving to Sayreville 30 years

OBITUARIES

ago. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny and entombment was in Holy Cross Ceme-

tery in North Arlington. Antonio was a Merchant Marine and a member of Club Deportivo both in Spain. He was a retired mechanical engineer having worked for Kaye and McDonald in West Orange.

ATHLETES

Continued from Page 12

Prior to this year, McGeehan’s athleticism proved incredibly valuable as a running back and defensive back for the Vikings. McGeehan was also the unofficial emergency wildcat quarterback in case starter and All-County quarterback Devin Rivas got injured.

“It all kind of started like two years ago, almost like a joke. Last year, it got a little more serious,” McGeehan said about the handful of practice reps he had at the position. “But as soon as last season ended Coach Bork was like ‘you’re probably going to be our guy next year.’ That’s when I started training in the offseason and putting in the work to be a quarterback.”

McGeehan’s first game as a quarterback on any level was a mixed bag. Falling behind early at Hawthorne, McGeehan had to throw the ball 36 times on opening night and while he totaled 309 yards and a touchdown, it also came at the cost of three interceptions.

Rather than be discouraged, he threw for 207 yards and a TD the next week against Pompton Lakes.

Overall, his 721 passing yards

through three games are the third most in Bergen County according to stats submitted to NJ.com. For good measure, he’s run for 258 yards and four touchdowns.

“He’s a fighter man,” Borkowski said. “He’s a tough kid and he put those thoughts (of confidence issues after the first game) to rest the last two weeks.”

“I thought I would have been rushing the ball a lot more instead of passing it,” said McGeehan. “But whatever helps get those wins, I’m going to try to do it.”

While McGeehan’s rise to the QB1 spot at North Arlington was months in the making, Rodriguez’s ascent to the role at Kearny feels like a whirlwind in comparison.

It wasn’t until late July that Rodriguez, a junior, decided to come out for football, following the lead of good friend and basketball teammate Jonah Menendez, who also joined.

Rodriguez had played quarterback on the rec level when he was 10 and 11 years old, but was moved to wide receiver and then, eventually, focused his attention on basketball. But after not playing football the first two years in high school, Rodriguez immediately turned

Beloved husband of Angela, he was the loving father of Tony Amado and the late Susan Amado. Brother of Manuel Amado (his wife Maria), he is also survived by his grand-

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

children Stephen Amado and Michael Flores-Amado.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to www. dementiasociety.org/association/foundation.

Mulligan Funeral Home

331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

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

heads to become the starter at quarterback.

“He signed up for football and we always said that if one of us played, the other one would as well,” said Rodriguez.

“I knew I would love to get him on the football field because he is so athletic,” added Policano, who serves as a JV boys basketball coach, making him familiar with Rodriguez’s athletic ability. “My expectation was that he could play any skill position from watching him in basketball.”

Rodriguez completed 9-of-13 passes for 123 yards, a touchdown and an interception in the Kardinals’ season-opening loss at Memorial of West New York.

“I was really nervous (when I was named the starter) because I didn’t come into the football season expecting to play quarterback,” Rodriguez said. “I thought I would be more of a running back or a receiver.

“The first two scrimmages, I was really nervous. But once the season started, I felt really comfortable with the team and with football in general.”

If early results are any indication, it won’t be the last time Rodriguez or McGeehan put up big numbers at their new position.

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

Haggerty: School fire could’ve been much worse

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

Firefighters were met with intense heat and zero visibility when they arrived at a classroom fire at Lyndhurst’s Washington School shortly after 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 16, but because of an aggressive attack of the fire, it was contained to just one classroom and no one was injured, First Assistant Fire Chief Paul F. Haggerty said.

Haggerty said the Lyndhurst Police Department was responding to another call when units pulled up to the fire alarm and they immediately reported heavy smoke conditions visible in the school’s basement.

The first engine, after quickly arriving, used a 2 ½ inch line when they were faced with the difficult visibility and smoke conditions. Haggerty said the building’s construction was what led to the conditions as they were.

The LFD had assistance at the scene from

the North Arlington, Rutherford and East Rutherford fire departments. The Secaucus Fire Department provided firehouse coverage while township units were on the call. Nutley and North Arlington were on stand-by coverage. The Passaic County Fire Rehab assisted on-scene.

The Bergen County Arson Squad, Lyndhurst Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division and Lyndhurst fire official are investigating the blaze.

“Our department and Lyndhurst OEM are working with the Lyndhurst Board of Education to facilitate an accelerated recovery from this incident,” Haggerty said after the fire. “A press release from the Lyndhurst Board of Education will be forthcoming regarding arrangements for the start of the next school week.

“There were no injuries as a result of this incident. I commend all of the responding companies for their efforts in selflessly preserving such a crucial property at the highest level.”

Mina’s mission to Israel

A Message from the Harrison Water Department:

e Harrison Water Dept. will ush hydrants throughout Harrison beginning the week of September 18th 2023. Crews will work Monday through Friday between 9pm and 1am to minimize customer inconvenience. e ushing program is expected to last for about 6 weeks. Ending October 27th 2023.

Flushing removes harmless minerals that collect in the water mains. e project is part of the Town routine maintenance program to assure high water quality. Flushing hydrants help to maintain the integrity of the distribution system by keeping the water lines clean. It is also necessary for re protection because ushing ensures that the hydrants are working properly.

During the ushing process, customers may experience low water pressure or discolored water. While the water is safe to drink, customers may prefer to wait until it runs clear before drinking, washing clothes or dishes.

Residents with questions or problems can call the Harrison Department of Public Works at 973-2682468. Website townofharrisonnj.com.

Earlier this month, Kearny PBA No. 21 President Mina Ekladious (inset) went on a mission to Israel with other law-enforcement officers. Whilst there, he was present for the nation’s official Sept. 11 Memorial ceremony, where the names of every victim is read aloud. He also attended countless seminars on advance Israeli policing tactics, which he was able to bring back with him to the United States. The main photo seen here is the group he was with in Israel.

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

FREE!

HCIA FALL SHREDDING 2023

9AM - 2PM (RAIN OR SHINE)

DONATE YOUR GENTLY USED REUSABLE BAGS AT ANY SHREDDING EVENT!

Saturday, September 23

Secaucus High School Secaucus 11 Millridge Road, Parking Lot

Saturday, September 30

Braddock Park

North Bergen

Picnic Area Parking Lot

WHAT TO BRING:

Personal or Confidential Documents, Gently Used Reusable Bags

WHAT NOT TO BRING:

Saturday, October 7

Jose Marti School – Union City

1812 Summit Ave - Field Parking Lot

West Hudson Park – Kearny Parking Lot, near Duck Pond

Saturday, October 21

DPW – Guttenberg

217 71st Street

DPW – Hoboken

Willow Avenue & Observer Highway

Saturday, October 28

Lincoln Park – Jersey City

Duncan Avenue Parking Lot

Saturday, November 4

DPW – West New York 6200 Dewey Avenue

Red Bull Arena – Harrison

North Parking Lot

HUDSON COUNTY RESIDENTS ONLY IMPORTANT!

In an effort to accommodate all those wishing to participate please limit your documents to no more than 40 lbs. For further information, contact the HCIA’s Environmental Hotline: (201) 324-6222 ext. 3257 or visit hcia.org. Documents will be commercially shredded safely, privately and properly by trained, licensed and bonded document destruction specialists. Residents may bring documents in whatever type of container they wish. These events are open to Hudson County residents. Businesses are not eligible to participate.

County Executive • Thomas A. DeGise Chief Executive Officer • Norman M. Guerra Chairman • Frank Pestana

Upgrades made to Fisher Field playground

Midtown pharmacy Kearny, has following job openings Full time registered pharmacy technician, Full/part time evening cashier Apply in person/submit resume to Midtown581@gmail.com

NO phone calls please 19W03

Collection System Supervisor

Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority, Hudson County KMUA is seeking a Collection System Supervisor for the Authorities five pump stations, approximately 9 miles of gravity sewer, and 3 miles of force mains. Will report directly, and function under the supervision of the Executive Director. Assists with & perform daily operation, process changes, maintenance, inspections, and recordkeeping. Ability to troubleshoot and identify operational failures. Oversees, trains, and works with the operational staff of (3). Required to be on-call for emergencies. Intermediate computer skills are required (MS Office). Requires at least 4 years’ experience in pump station & collections operations and maintenance. High School diploma, NJDEP C-1 license, NJ state driver’s license, and NJ CDL Class B w/Tanker required. Salary range is requested. Resumes should be forwarded to JQUINONES@KMUA.ORG

19W04

Heavy

Looking for mature person for office work, good with math and computer skills, very neat and organized, responsible. Flexible hrs Family business Close to Kearny and Belleville

(973)482-3462

19W03

emails

19W03

Parking Enforcement Officer/ Parking Meter Collector

Full time/ Part Time Under direction, patrols designated areas and issues summonses for street sweeping, meter enforcement and parking violations, collects monies from parking meters and other related duties. Knowledge of problems involved in parking violations or the procedures used in dealing with such problems. Ability to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the municipality. Valid NJ drivers license required. Position is subject to a comprehensive background check. 35 hr week.

https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/07310.htm

Applications available here https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ Application Deadline 10/13/2023 20W03

NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR

The Town of Kearny seeks a qualified Network Administrator. The position will be responsible to ensure the stable operation of the municipal computer networks. Duties include maintaining, configuring, installing, supporting, planning, developing, and optimizing all network hardware, software, and communication links/platforms. The Network Administrator will also analyze and resolve end user hardware and software computer problems in a timely and accurate fashion and provide end user training where required. Salary negotiable depending upon qualifications.

For NJ CSC job description: https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/10107.htm.

For applications and instructions: https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/. Application deadline 10/13/2023 20W03

Part time, flexible hours bookkeeping, must know QuickBooks. Please respond by email Mrenviro34@aol.com Thank you, Steve Environmental Equipment Repair, Inc. 236 Stuyvesant Avenue Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 (877)438-1168

19W03

(862)810-4683 20W03

Great Opportunity! Deli/Coffee Shop on Schuyler Ave in Kearny. For more info call 201-618-6560 19W03

Scam Alert to all readers seeking a new place to live:

The Observer works to ensure the accuracy of all of its classified ads, especially for apartment rentals, rooms for rents and homes for sale. However, because our classifieds are posted online, there have been occasions where outsiders — scammers — have taken the information landlords provide and have turned that information around to scam potential clients.

This, unfortunately, though rare, can cost people a lot of money. Often, the will ask apartments seekers to wire money — before even seeing the place — via Zelle, PayPal, CashApp, Bitcoin machines or other money-transfer programs. If a “landlord” will not allow you to see an apartment before you send a deposit, chances are good it’s a scam. Why? Because they do not have keys nor the ability to show the apartments to a client because it’s not theirs in the first place. Please use caution whenever seeking a new place to live — and if you believe you’ve been a victim or a potential victim to a rental scam, immediately contact your local police department.

Mayor Daniel H. Pronti, center, and Members of the North Arlington Borough Council, are seen here cutting the ribbon recently at the opening of the new all-inclusive playground at the newly renovated Fisher Field. While work continues and renovations are not yet complete, the mayor says wanted the playground opened so youngsters could enjoy the new equipment before summer ends. A formal dedication will take place a date to be announced.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

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BELLEVILLE 3rd floor. Belleville/Nutley border. 1 BR. Spacious LR, EIK $1600 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Includes 1 Parking space. Walking distance to Trans & Supermarket. Available October 1st (973)9516071 19W03

BLOOMFIELD

BLOOMFIELD 1st floor. 2 BR’s, Open space LR/Kitchen combo. Full basement with washer/dryer. access to driveway & backyard. $2250 + 1 month security. Utilities separate. No Pets/smoking. Available Now. Leave message (973) 7254320 18W03

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 www.theobserver.com and click on CLASSIFIEDS

APARTMENTS FOR RENT HARRISON

HARRISON 1st Floor. 1 bedroom, LR, EIK. Near PATH, $1,450 + 1 months security. Utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking. Available October 1st. Call after 5PM (973)418-6621

19W03

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT KEARNY

KEARNY 2nd floor. 2 BR’s. LR. EIK. $1600 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)889-3859 20W03

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ROOM FOR RENT

North Arlington Ridge Road Office Parking available $750 + utilities. Great Space. Owner (201)509-6965 20W03

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KEARNY Newly renovated. 3 BR’s. 1 bath, EIK, LR. $2400 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201) 852-1720 18W03

KEARNY 1 person Studio Apartment in quit family oriented home perfect for single person. LR, BR, Bath, kitchenette, “Micro & Refrigerator No cooking allowed”. Utilities included no pets $1000 + 1 months security. (973)668-8305 19W03

KEARNY 1st Floor. Large 1 BR loft style apartment. Featuring high ceilings, Large windows, Hardwood floors, Full ceramic tile Bath, New Kitchen w/ Refrigerator & Stove, $2000 + Security & Utilities. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201) 991-6942 19W03

KEARNY 4 Bedroom, 2 baths, office, LR, DR, kitchen, outdoor porch, central AC and heat, appliances included, hook-up washer/dryer. No backyard use. Street Parking ADT alarm system. $2,800/mth plus security deposit and 1 mths rent. Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking

Available November 1st (201) 889-6026 20W03

N. ARLINGTON New 2 BR Apartment w/ updated kitchen and bath. Hardwood floors throughout. Rent: $2000 Security: 1.5 months rent Utilities are separate No Pets No Smoking

Credit/Background Check required Contact: (201) 693-3480 18W03

N. ARLINGTON 2nd floor. 3 BR, LR, DR, Kitchen, bathroom $2200+ 1 month security. Utilities separate. No smoking. no pets Avl. October 1st. (973) 477-0896 18W03

N. ARLINGTON New one bedroom apartment Extra large rooms in new development. Close to shopping and transportation. Parking available and laundry on premises. $1900.00 per month with one month security. Supply own utilities. Available Oct 1st. Please call 201-997-2341 between10:am and 7:pm. 20W03

N.ARLINGTON Beautiful just renovated large rooms. 2 BR. EIK. LR/ DR combo. In a desired location and plenty of public parking. $2200 + 1.5 months security. Hot water paid by owner. Electric & heat paid by tenant.Close to transportation. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. (201) 6937771 20W03

NUTLEY Large room. Share Bath, Kitchen $700 + 1 months security, Utilities included. Woman preferred. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now (862)2088565 18W03

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

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT

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HOUSE FOR SALE

NUTLEY

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The Observer’s office is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please stop by for a visit or call (201) 9911600.

KPD

Continued from Page 5

detected and the driver, Marlon A. Cevallos, 41, of Newark, stated he was drinking wine in Newark.

Field-sobriety tests were conducted and Cevallos reportedly

couldn’t place one foot in front of the other and could not safely perform the tests without losing his balance.

He was arrested, charged with DWI and his vehicle was impounded. After an Alcotest, his BAC was registered as 0.2%, a clean 2.5 times the legal limit.

He received summonses for

DWI and reckless driving, after which he was released to a family member.

n

On Sept. 8 at nearly 2 a.m., Sgt. Sean Kelly and Officers Danny Maganinho and Matthew Knighton were called to the 600 block of Chestnut Street on a report of man breaking into

vehicles. Dispatchers provided a description and officers found Jerry O. Castro, 20, of North Arlington, who matched the description.

The caller assisted police and positively identified Castro as the man they called about. After further investigation, it was determined Castro report-

edly broke into two vehicles and attempted to break into a third.

He was arrested and then, a search incident to arrest yielded an opened and exposed blade, a Smith and Wesson knife, on his person.

Castro was charged with two counts of burglary, one count of attempted burglary and various weapons offenses and, of course, he was released with a court date and a knife seized.

n

It was a rather busy Sept. 7 into Sept. 8, including at 3:20 a.m., on the 8th, when Officer Luis Cazares and other Kearny units responded to an crash at the intersection of Harrison and Schuyler avenues, involving a pole.

Harrison PD assisted, as a pole was completely detached from its base. Additionally, some signs and pieces of a second pole were scattered about the roadway. A heavily damaged vehicle was found a short distance away. The driver of that vehicle, David Mejias, 34, of Kearny, reportedly reeked of alcohol and admitted to falling asleep while driving. SFSTs were conducted and Mejias finished them poorly. Mejias allegedly told Sgt. Kelly he fell asleep while driving home from a “gentleman’s club.” On his Alco test, Mejias reportedly blew twice the legal limit (.16%).

n

In late August, a victim reported their credit card was fraudulently used to purchase over $400 worth of merchandise at Target. Det. John Fabula obtained security-camera footage of the transaction and observed Ricky J. Matos, 24, of Kearny, to be the suspect. Matos is very familiar to the Kearny Police Department, as the KPD regularly interact with him and have charged or arrested him many times in the past. This go-round, Matos was charged with use of a stolen credit card, a third degree crime.

A court date was scheduled, and a summons was mailed to the Matos’s home.

SIGNS

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(state) Route 440. Though not reported, we’ve also seen them around Route 23.

“The goal of the campaign over the next few months is to remind residents and visitors, who may be traversing New Jersey’s highways for vacation, holiday shopping and other festivities, of the importance of being aware of their surroundings and of reporting suspicious activity,” said NJOHSP Director Laurie Doran. “The public is one of our first and best lines of defense in the fight against terrorism. Our ‘See Something, Say Something’ initiative bolsters the State’s security efforts and plays a key role in helping to identify threats and to prevent attacks.”

The signs will target drivers during the morning and afternoon rush hours seven days a week from through Feb. 17, 2024.

“Safety and security are everyone’s responsibility,” NJDOT Commissioner and NJ Turnpike Authority Chairwoman Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti said. “Using variable message signs on the New Jersey Turnpike and our interstate highways will help remind millions of motorists if they ‘See Something, Say Something’ when driving through our state.”

The campaign coincides with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s national “If You See Something, Say Something” Awareness Day, observed annually on Sept. 25.

“We are happy to support this important public information campaign by displaying the ‘See Something, Say Something’ message on the digital Variable Message Signs over the New Jersey Turnpike,” NJTA Executive Director James Carone said. “The nearly 700,000 drivers who use the Turnpike on an average day have an important role to play in protecting public safety.

These signs encourage them to speak up if they see suspicious activity.”

“See Something, Say Something” messages will also be displayed on 511nj.org, specifically in the “Severity Alert” section and as a widget in the “Safety Message” section. Anyone who observes suspicious activity should immediately report it to local law enforcement or to NJOHSP’s Counterterrorism Watch Desk by calling (866) 4-SAFE-NJ or by sending an email to tips@ njohsp.gov.

Why now?

While law enforcement officials tell The Observer there is no immediate threat of terrorism in the northern part of the state, a phone call to the Counterterrorism Watch Desk was, itself, revealing. The person who answered the call was likely a trained law-enforcement officer since the state website says the hotline is monitored 24-7265 by such professionals.

The call-taker said there is a concern people in the state have forgotten too much about what happened 22 years ago on Sept. 11, 2001 and the corresponding need for residents to vigilantly report any suspected or potential terroristic activity.

“It’s to ensure our residents haven’t become too complacent especially with the anniversary of Sept. 11, just the other day,” the call-taker said. “We just want people to be aware and (if) they see something, say something, especially to suspicious terrorist-related activity, along those lines.”

The call-taker also said every law enforcement agency in New Jersey was supposed to be informed of the program and high-ranking cops were supposed to trickle that information down to rank-and-file officers. But there is no way to confirm whether that did, in fact, occur.

Editor’s note: This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Via the State of New Jersey

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