e-Newspaper for Oct. 25, 2023 by The Observer Newspaper

Wednesday, 25 October 2023 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXVI, Issue No. 25

UNDER THE COVER Enter The Observer’s annual Find the Pumpkin contest Entry form on page 19 This one doesn’t count

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

Three candidates seeking Kearny’s mayoralty duke it out in first-ever virtual debate Ferreira, Doyle & Santana tackle issues from parking to taxes to PILOTs and more By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

The three candidates, from the top left, are Sydney J. Ferreira, Carol Jean Doyle and Peter P. Santana. Kevin A. Canessa Jr., editor of The Observer, was the evening’s moderator (at right). (Screenshot)

kc@theobserver.com

he three candidates vying to permanently become Kearny’s next mayor took part in a spirited debate Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023, the first-ever in the area to be completely broadcast to a worldwide audience on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Twitch. Kearny’s Interim Mayor Peter P. Santana, Council President Carol Jean Doyle and realtor Sydney J. Ferrei-

ra each participated from a remote location. On the day of the debate, more than 1,500 people watched live on the four platforms. That number has jumped significantly with re-watches and views by firsttime viewers podcast. A crowd of around 30 also gathered for a debate watch party at Jimmy’s on Midland Avenue. The previous mayoral debate, which took place in the auditorium of Kearny High School in 2021 featuring See DEBATE, Page 19

Lyndhurst PD promotes 5 veteran officers to new, higher ranks

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

ne Lyndhurst police officer was elevated to the rank of sergeant while four others were elevated to the rank of detective, by Public Safety

Commissioner and Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso and Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. in a ceremony at Town Hall on Oct. 16. Promoted were: l Officer William Kapp to the rank of sergeant. Sgt. Kapp joined the Lyndhurst Police Department in

January 2009. In December 2018, he was assigned to the detective bureau before being promoted to the rank of detective in October of 2019. Sgt. Kapp will be assigned as a patrol squad supervisor. Additionally, Sgt. Kapp serves as an investigator with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s

Office’s Arson Task Force and is a drug-recognition expert. l Officer Joseph White to the rank of detective. Det. White joined the Lyndhurst PD in July 2014. Prior to his promotion, he served as a patrol See LPD, Page 18

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

NEWS BRIEFS

Youngsters have fun at KFD’s annual Open House

Nutley preparing busy Veterans Day celebration

Barbara B. Goldberg via kearnynj.org

Each year in October, to mark Fire Safety Awareness Month, local fire departments host open houses across the continent. Such was the case last week in Kearny, where this little guy got to be a Junior Firefighter alongside three of Kearny’s bravest. There were plenty of other fun activities that night, as well.

Grace United Methodist starts choir, seeks members Grace United Methodist Church is putting together a church choir. Practice will take place once a week. Interested? Contact Andre at (862) 452-9348 or send an email to grace.m.churchkearny@gmail. com. Residents of any town or any ability are welcome.

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INJURY ATTORNEYS ANTHONY J. RIPOSTA, ESQ.

The Nutley Department of Public Affairs and Health, in partnership with the Military and Veterans Affairs Bureau and the Nutley Veterans Council, invites the community to join them in observing Veterans Day. The ceremony takes place on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, in Commissioner’s Chambers on the third floor of Town Hall or at the WWII Monument based on weather conditions, at 11 a.m. Immediately following, all are invited to participate in the annual Veterans Day Ruck March. In true military fashion, participants will carry a weighted ruck sack or backpack through Memorial Park from the monument to Kingsland Manor and back for the 5K march. To honor the 22 veterans a day, who on average take their own lives, the suggested weight

for a rucksack will be 22 pounds or 22 canned goods to be donated to the Nutley Family Service Bureau Food Pantry immediately following the 5K ruck march. All are welcome to participate, any other weight and no weight, is permissible as well. All participants are responsible for packing and bringing their own rucksack or backpack. Registration is open until Oct. 31. For registration and more information, contact Daniel Jacoby at (973) 284-4951, ext. 2428.

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Blotter �� Online

Obituaries......................................................................................................................Page 13

Sports...............................................................................................................................Page 9

Classifieds �� Pages 16-17

Health & Wellness Directory.......................................................................................Page 10

Business Directory.......................................................................................................Page 18

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

Ribbon cut for newest Little Free Library in Harrison By Karen Cristalli

Special to The Observer

he Washington Middle School Library Club in Harrison visited neighboring Lincoln Elementary School to promote its newly installed Little Free Library. The WMS Library Club, an after-school program led by Gifted and Talented Coordinator Karen Cristalli along with Tara Maziou, is intended for all book enthusiasts. The Little Free Library inspires children and encourages them to read and expand their knowledge about the world through books. It pro-

HAPPENING IN HARRISON vides free access to books for people of all ages. Gifted and Talented students from Lincoln Elementary and Hamilton Intermediate schools also attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Eighth-grader Ashley Galindo said: “I am glad I was able witness the joy on the faces of the little kids looking at all the books.” Classmate Laura Ferreira, a former Lincoln School student, said: “Going back to my

Photo by Contributed photo

The ribbon cutting ceremony included students joined by (back row, from left) teachers Tara Maziou and Samatha Rowe; Daniela Riser, director of Curriculum and Instruction; Maria Vila, Harrison Board of Education president; Superintendent Maureen Kroog; Amy Heberling, principal and Steven Valente, vice principal of Lincoln School; Walter Cmielewski, Kevin Stahl, Washington Middle School principal, teachers Joellen DeRobertis and Gerard Stahl and Karen Cristalli, Gifted and Talented coordinator. old school was nostalgic and it munity.” ing more books and getting was amazing being there with Leyla Cruz said: “Seeing hooked on them. It made me everyone all for one purpose: all of the little kids reminded think of all the potential this to provide books to the comme of when I started readLittle Free Library has.”

THE VENTOSO FAMILY SUPPORTS CAROL JEAN DOYLE FOR KEARNY MAYOR Here’s why we think you should vote for Carol Jean, too...

3 When tough decision have had to be made, only one candidate running for mayor has been there to do so — CAROL JEAN DOYLE. Her opponents have never had to make a difficult decision that affects 40,000+ lives to this day. 3 When the NJSEA fought to keep the Keegan Landfill open, CAROL JEAN was there, endlessly, to shut it down. 3 When developers wanted excessive PILOTs, CAROL JEAN said “No Way!” while many others said “Yes.” 3 When 9-1-1 was in its infancy, Carol Jean was adamant Kearny be one of the first communities in New Jersey to get it. In 1979, that is exactly what happened — Kearny was among the first few in the entire state. 3 For the last 54 years, CAROL JEAN has served in so many capacities, as a councilwoman, in clubs, organizations and volunteer groups, it would take five pages to list them all here. Her two opponents are in a combined 0 in town. 3 For 54 years, CAROL JEAN has been a loyal DEMOCRAT, even if the party hasn’t exactly been loyal to her in return. She was, still is, and will always be a DEMOCRAT. 3 For several years in a row, even when county and school taxes rose, as town’s finance chairwoman, CAROL JEAN made sure KEARNY’S

TAX BILLS NEVER ROSE. This is an indisputable fact. As Mayor, only she will be able to ensure that continues.

3 Think of CAROL JEAN for a moment. You’ve probably known her for a long time. And chances are you’ve had to call on her for something. Now try to think of a time she didn’t come through. That you’ll never find. Because all she’s ever done is give of herself for the betterment of the community. Now’s the time to finally thank her for all she’s done for us. So, on TUESDAY, NOV. 7, 2023:

Please join my family & me and help us all elect

CAROL JEAN DOYLE, THE NEXT MAYOR OF KEARNY Paid for by the Ventoso Family, Kearny, New Jersey. Polls are open 6a-8p on Election Day.

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Tanelli, Schaer honor North Arlington teen Jaileen Hanson By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

ome of you may remember a story we brought to you early in September about 13-year-old Jaileen Hanson, of North Arlington. She was the middle schooler who, over the summer, attended a North Arlington Borough Council meeting and who asked Mayor Daniel H. Pronti’s if she could speak up at a meeting. Well, Pronti was thrilled she wanted to speak — and when she did, she asked if bike racks could be placed in the borough. And that is exactly what happened in September when Pronti asked administrator Steve LoIacono to get them for a few locations, including outside the senior center. Well, don’t you know, Assemblyman Gary Schaer, who

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kc@theobserver.com

@ NORTH ARLINGTON represents North Arlington, got wind of it all — and he wanted to honor Hansen with an outstanding young citizen award. And so, too, did Bergen County Commissioner Steve Tanelli, himself a North Arlington resident. Both recently presented their awards to Hanson and they were joined by Pronti and the entire North Arlington Borough Council. Hanson is in the middle of the photo and to her right are Pronti, Tanelli and Schaer. Further to the left are Councilwoman Allison Sheedy and LoIacono. To her left are Councilmembers Kirk Del Russo, Lynette Cavadas, Mario Karcic and Donna Bocchino.

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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CREATE MORE PARKiNG iN PROBLEMATiC AREAS ELiMiNATE WASTE & CUT SPENDiNG STOP OVERDEVELOPMENT & CONGESTiON SUPPORT LAW ENFORCEMENT TO DETER CRiME RESTORE MEDiCAL AND RECREATiON FACiLiTiES UTiLiZE GRANT FUNDS TO BEAUTiFY OUR BUSiNESS CORRiDORS

SYDNEY J.

FERREIRA

VOTE COLUMN B — REAL PARKING SOLUTIONS KEARNY POLITICIANS HAVE IGNORED OUR PARKING CRISIS FOR YEARS AND WORSENED THE ISSUE BY OVERDEVELOPING OUR TOWN. Now, they want to create a "Parking Utility" — another expensive government agency — to take more of our hard-earned money. And, they want us to buy parking permits that still won't guarantee us a parking space. We already pay enough in taxes! These politicians just don’t get it. We need real solutions… HERE'S THE FERREIRA - COLUMN B PLAN:

Purchase or Annex land to build more parking; costs financed and spaces rented to pay down debts incurred Negotiate better deals with large developers to create more parking spaces on their properties Discourage developers from charging tenants additional parking fees, so they don't park on our streets Stop easing parking variances for new developments Provide more public transportation options for those who choose not to drive Restrict overnight street parking of commercial and oversized vehicles

Let’s stop the political games and money-grabs. Kearny deserves better, and when our team is elected, count on us to deliver for you!

The Team From Kearny, For Kearny! Paid for by Committee to Elect Sydney J. Ferreira, 617 Devon St, Kearny, NJ 07032

SYDNEY J. FERREIRA CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF KEARNY

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Kearny’s Silva completes Army training

Gabriel Silva, of Kearny, graduated Basic Training boot camp Oct. 4, 2023, at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and is currently stationed at Fort Eustis, Virginia. The Kearny HS 2023 graduate is a karate Black Belt. His father retired at the rank of Police Major in Brazil.

Nutley has Veterans Day activities planned

he Nutley Department of Public Affairs and Health, in partnership with the Military and Veterans Affairs Bureau and the Nutley Veterans Council, invites the community to join them in observing Veterans Day. The ceremony takes place on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, in Commissioner’s Chambers on the third floor of Town Hall or at the WWII Monument based on weather conditions, at 11 a.m. Immediately following, all are invited to participate in the annual Veterans

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Day Ruck March. In true military fashion, participants will carry a weighted ruck sack or backpack through Memorial Park from the monument to Kingsland Manor and back for the 5K march. To honor the 22 veterans a day, who on average take their own lives, the suggested weight for a rucksack will be 22 pounds or 22 canned goods to be donated to the Nutley Family

Service Bureau Food Pantry immediately following the 5K ruck march. All are welcome to participate, any other weight and no weight, is permissible as well. All participants are responsible for packing and bringing their own rucksack or backpack. Registration is open until Oct. 31. For registration and more information, contact Daniel Jacoby at (973) 2844951, ext. 2428. — CANESSA

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

PETESANTANA.COM

A Dynamic New Democratic Leader to Keep Kearny Moving Forward!

A Kearny homeowner, husband, father and educator, Peter Santana was sworn-in as Mayor earlier this year. Mayor Santana worked hand in hand with former Mayor Al Santos as a Council member to deliver progress for residents, and now he’s ready to keep moving Kearny forward as our Mayor.

Keeping property taxes stable

while investing in critical priorities like public safety, recreation and our infrastructure

Building a new Community Center

to deliver more programs and events for residents of all ages

Expanding Rec and Community spaces like the Kearny Branch Library and new Health Department annex

PAID FOR BY PETE SANTANA FOR MAYOR, P.O. BOX 239, KEARNY, NJ, 07032

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

KPD: Jean wraps-up numerous recent shoplifting cases By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. with Det. Sgt. Mike Gontarczuk

www.theobserver.com

et. Jordenson Jean, of the Kearny Police Department, has been busy investigating a series of shopliftings and his work has begun to pay off. For two months, Jean investigated the shopliftings allegedly done by the same person at the Marshalls store. These are the reported dates and net proceeds: March 10, $549.91; March 12, $1,079.80; again on March 12, $744.78; April 3, $419.93; April 23, $389.93; April 26, $809.88; and May 3, $409.91 Surveillance was ultimately conducted and the suspect, Wanda A. Devers Benitez, 42, of Newark, was indentified. Jean learned she was also shoplifting at a TJ Maxx in Bayonne and a Marshalls in Jersey City. She was surveilled after one of those shoplifting incidents, too, by another agency.

Ultimately, Det. Jean was able to charge her for the shopliftings she committed and a summons was mailed to her residence with a court date. Next, Jean recently fielded reports from ShopRite staff about two previous shoplifters. They provided a description and video footage of them. The suspect, Iyanna Hannah, 21, of Newark, (and one other woman) reportedly utilized a baby stroller to conceal merchandise and they’ve been spotted at multiple ShopRites and similar stores, including in Belleville, doing the same. ShopRite staff believed they knew the identities of the two women, as they had detained them in the past for suspected shopliftings. Det. Jean reviewed and compared security camera footage and found multiple shoplifting incidents done by the same two. They were alleged to have shoplifted on Sept. 4, 13, 20 and 22. Det. Jean ultimately identified a suspects. When comparing their iden-

POLICE BEAT tities to police records, Det. Jean found other shoplifting incidents, going back as far as 2018. Continuing his investigation, Det. Jean found the shoplifting women actually have ShopRite Price Plus cards that match their identities, which they have used in the past. He also used multiple databases and information repositories to confirm their identities. Hannah was charged with multiple counts of shoplifting, while charges are pending for her co-conspirators who have been identified. l On Oct. 14 at around 4:15 p.m., Sgt. Jack Grimm and Officers Justine Salinas, Ellesse Ogando and other back-up units responded to an altercation at a residence. When police arrived, two people — a man and woman — were

separated. The man had blood on his nose, a scratch and other injuries. Police say they determined, based on the injuries, Nicolette E. Greco, 25, of Lyndhurst, had been the aggressor. She was arrested, charged with assault and was remanded to the Hudson County Jail. l On Oct. 17 at quarter to 6 p.m., Officers Ruben Rivera and Olger Montero responded to Walmart, where loss prevention had detained a 16-yearold Kearny juvenile for shoplifting $422.59 worth of merchandise. The juvenile was taken into custody since this amounts to an indictable (felony) shoplifting, and was later released to a parent. Despite having been the culprit in multiple previous incidents, all of which were handled with a station house adjustment, the recourse for this incident will be — yet another station house adjustment. (Read more at www.theobserver.com).

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

SPORTS & HEALTH

Kearny boys soccer lose a heartbreaker in Hudson County final The St. Peter’s Prep freshman took advantage of the extra space he cut towards the net Little was said, but the anger and shot it just inside the far and frustration was painfully post for the winning goal. obvious on the faces of the Sayouwoh had both goals Kearny boys soccer team as on the night for the Maraudthey walked off the field at Red ers as well as the lone goal in Bull Arena on Thursday night. St. Peter’s Prep’s 1-0 overtime Just minutes earlier, the Karvictory over Kearny on Sept. 13. dinals hopes of a third consecKearny won the other regular utive Hudson County title had season meeting, 5-0, on Sept. been dashed with a 2-1 loss to 27. St. Peter’s Prep on a goal with “We misplayed it a little just 2:21 remaining. bit, one of our players slipped Now, all that was left was to on the play and their player regroup for the state tourna(Sayouwoh) did very well to ment that is set to begin on get by and get the goal,” Galka Wednesday. said. “At the time, we thought “It certainly was a disapwe were in control of the game. pointing night, losing the game They took advantage of a like we did,” Kearny head mistake on our part and he cercoach Bill Galka said. “We have tainly did well to use his speed to forget about it quickly and and get to the goal quickly.” concentrate on the next season Kearny had one last regular which is the states.” season tuneup - a 10-0 victory Trailing for a large part of over Becton on Saturday mornthe evening, Kearny evened ing - before the start of the the score when Hans Zoller state tournament on Wednesblasted a 30-yard freekick into day, which seeded on Monday the top-left corner of the net in afternoon. the 64th minute. With a 12-4 record, Kearny “He’s a great striker of the was projected to be the third ball, but we haven’t had him seed in an always loaded North take many free kicks. We figJersey, Section 1, Group 4 ured it was out of the range of bracket. Aaron (Ocana) so we needed a I think we’re at the point of little bit more power,” said Galthe season where it takes a day ka. “It was a fantastic freekick or two to get over a loss like goal.” Thursday when you play in a The two teams, which final and at Red Bull Arena,” shared the HCIAL American Galka said. “But hopefully we Division title, seemed destined learned a little bit from it. It’s for its second overtime game important to move on and of the season, until the 78th concentrate, learn from the minute when the Marauders’ mistakes and take those lessons Philip Sayouwoh dribbled forward into the states.” down the left side and past a See group photo online. defender who had stumbled. By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

Kearny girls soccer remain No. 1 in Hudson after OT thriller Photo by Jason Bernstein

of mine, but recently it hasn’t been,” Vasquez said. “I’m just grateful to God that I got the Kearny keeper Aracely chance to show myself and Vasquez had yet to make a save prove it and win the game for on a penalty kick all season everyone.” long heading into Thursday While Kearny’s multi-decade night. reign as the best in Hudson Her first stop on a PK is one County continues, its status that won’t soon be forgotten in was challenged in a way it Kearny. hasn’t in years. Rather than be In the seventh round of overwhelmed, like they have penalty kicks, Vasquez dove to been in several of the past her right and with both hands finals, Bayonne stood toe-to-toe shoved away the shot from Baywith the Kardinals. onne’s Riley WIlliams to give Kylie Galano’s goal in the Kearny its 15th consecutive 77th minute tied the game Hudson County championship, for Bayonne and forced an outlasting Bayonne, 5-4 in PKs, overtime in the tournament’s in the Hudson County Tournahistory. After having the better ment final at Red Bull Arena. of attack in overtime, Bayonne The two teams were deadimmediately seized control of locked at 1-1 following 80 penalty kicks when goalie Caitminutes of regulation and two lin Gaetani made a diving save 10-minute overtime periods. on Olivia Covello in the first “I have not (been stopping round, then stopped Ava Natopenalty shots) and normally I si’s shot in the fourth round. would say that’s a strong suit By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

Trailing 3-2 after four rounds and needing a goal in order to keep its title hopes alive, Keala Cicchino scored for Kearny with a shot to the top-left corner of the net. Five rounds of PK proved not to be enough as Bayonne’s next shot sailed high, necessitating the need to continue. In the sixth round, Kearny’s Mason Gryckiewicz and Bayonne’s Katherine Sorrentino traded goals. For the seventh round, the Kardinals turned to freshman Makayla David, who sent a shot inside the left post for a goal to put Kearny up 5-4. “I’ve been through these types of moments with my club team, so I have experience (with PKs),” David said. “But I was so nervous because it’s Red Bull Arena with a lot of fans in the stands.” Now it was time for Vasquez See SOCCER, Page 10

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

the ball to knock it away before running towards the center line to celebrate with Continued from Page 9 her teammates. In a shootout competition to finish the job and complete you’re asking your goalkeepits greatest challenge within er to make one save,” Kearny the county in more than 20 coach Michael Sylvia said. “I years. knew it was going to come “I was really frustrated because I’ve seen her do it at myself in the beginning in practice and I know what because I was not saving kind of athlete she is and it any of them. I was going the was going to happen eventuwrong way, I was thinking ally. The longer it went on, too much,” Vasquez said.”All I was thinking about was that the more confidence I had.” “I broke down into tears,” I need to end this, I need to said freshman Melissa Mota, help out my team. They’ve been helping me out all game who gave Kearny a 1-0 lead with her goal in the 37th minso I need to get here and ute. “I was over there in the make a big save to end the huddle crying, just thanking game.” everybody for playing such a With a dive to the right, good game.” Vasquez got both hands on

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

SOCCER

Photo by Jason Bernstein

The emotion was understandable. Several times during this run, the final was merely one last Kearny blowout as it steamrolled its Hudson County competition This championship, howev-

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er, required perseveranceand toughness. Playing an independent schedule, Kearny started the season with seven consecutive losses, a stunning stretch for a team that routinely is well above .500. Their fortunes started in early October with wins over

North Bergen and Hoboken, followed by a double overtime victory against Bridgewater-Rartian that Sylvia said was the true turning point of the season. Kearny is now unbeaten in seven consecutive games heading into its regular season finale on Monday at Newark East Side. “This championship definitely feels different for sure,” Sylvia said. “I’m not saying that any of the other ones we didn’t have to work for or that any of the other ones are easy, but this one was different. All credit to Bayonne. They got a great program and they played with so much heart and that’s a credit to the coaches and the players on that field. But nobody’s taking this from us.”

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North Arlington, Lyndhurst return to NJSIAA Football playoffs, seeds announced for soccer By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Shortly after North Arlington’s 27-19 victory over Lodi on Friday night head coach Joe Borkowski delivered a message to his team that would have seemed impossible just a couple weeks earlier. The Vikings were likely heading to the state playoffs. “We saw that Boonton was up (on Whippany Park) after the conclusion of our game and I told them there was a good shot that we were making (the playoffs),” Borkowski said, knowing that Boonton had

already submitted its intentions to opt out of the state tournament and potentially open up a spot in the North Jersey, Group 1 super section. They were really excited,” Borkowski said. A little more than 24 hours later, it became official. North Arlington’s win combined with Boonton’s lopsided victory at Whippany Park as well as Brearly’s loss to Dunellen on Thursday night, elevated the Vikings to the 16th and final playoff spot. It is the first time North Arlington has qualified in consecutive seasons since the state tournament started in 1974. “Going into the Lodi game

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The brain is responsible for translating light into the images we see. The brain and the eyes are directly connected, so neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease can affect a person’s eyesight. The eye’s optic nerve and retina are actually brain tissue that extends outside the brain case. Neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease cause brain cell damage, and this damage can extend to the retina and affect eyesight. Visual symptoms often affect spatial orientation and depth perception, causing issues with reading, contrast, and following moving objects. Routine eye exams help catch medical conditions and diseases early on. Researchers are investigating whether the retina can provide a window into a person’s brain to help diagnose

early-stage brain conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, studies show that people who have vision problems but don’t wear glasses or seek treatment, such as surgery, are more likely to have dementia. If there is even an indirect link between vision impairment and loss of cognition, then improving vision should decrease the risk of dementia or at least slow progression. To schedule an appointment, please call 201-896-0096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance. P.S. Many eye doctors are equipped to perform a quick and easy test called an optical coherence tomography (OCT), which detects changes in the retina.

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Photo by Jason Bernstein

(the message was) we got to win and we’re going to need some help,” said Borkowski. “We knew that if Boonton won we were going to get in. When our game ended, Boonton was up three or four scores. North Arlington, the eighth seed in the North 1, Group 1 section, faces a daunting task on Friday night when it travels to top-seeded and NJIC run-

Left to Right: North Arlington football players Ian Crudele, Ariel Williams, Jose Rodriguez, Sean McGeehan and Jason Gilbert.

See FOOTBALL, Page 14

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Yero goes on the attack, sparks Nutley’s turnaround By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Throughout her soccer career, Brooke Yero has excelled as the focal point of everything Nutley does on both sides of the ball with her ability to facilitate the offense, distribute the ball to her teammates and defend from her center-midfield spot. “My whole entire soccer career I’ve played center midfield and I’ve distributed the ball, I get a lot of assists and I just love passing the ball, using skills and moving it around the field,” said Yero. “My job has always been getting the ball to the forwards so they can score.” But as a young Maroon Raiders squad struggled to generate offense, it became clear that the time had come for the star facilitator to be more active in the attack. “We’ve always asked her to

go forward and score more. She defends as much as she goes forward,” Nutley head coach Mike DiPiano said. “I think this week she realized she’s gotta go to the goal. “She’s always been more of a playmaker and defensive center-mid. I think the bulb finally went right on.” With Nutley needing to have a big week in order to lock up a spot in the state tournament, Yero responded with the biggest offensive stretch of her high school career. The junior had a goal and two assists last Tuesday in a shutout over Irvington. Two days later, Yero erupted for three goals and three assists in a wild 8-4 win at Belleville. On Senior Night, Saturday, with the Raiders missing

Photo courtesy of Thousand Second Photography

three starters due to injury, Yero scored the lone goal in a H 1-0 win against Harrison. Five goals, five assists, three crucial wins for Nutley and for Yero, a selection as The Observer Athlete of the Week. “One of our issues (we had as a team) was that we couldn’t score,” Yero said, who also had two goals in an Essex County Tournament win against Newark Tech on Oct. 10. “I started realizing that as a central midfielder I just needed to take my chance, take more opportunities and press higher up the field.” “Brooke has been a big reason for our success,” said DiPiano. “She keeps the team together, she’s the maestro on the field. It’s not a coincidence that during this winning streak, she’s gotten hot.” After the 3-0 week, Nutley is

now projected to be the No. 12 seed in the 16-team field for the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 sectional tournament. The Raiders conclude the regular season with a game against Secaucus on Monday before the state tournament begins on Thursday. “Coach DiPaino says that there’s nothing more dangerous than a team that’s starting to get more wins at the end of the season,” Yero said. “The team is starting to come together, we’re working well together. A lot of the younger players have been stepping up. It’s really starting to look great and I think we’re in a great position for states.” With as many as seven underclassmen starting on a game by game basis, Nutley knew there would be growing pains this fall, See ATHLETE, Page 15

Homeowners and renters $ get up to 1,750 in NJ property tax relief. Apply now at ANCHOR.nj.gov

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Joan Y. Maass

Joan Y. Maass (nee Daley) died peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Oct. 17, 2023. She was just shy of 91 years of age. Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, she lived most of her life in Kearny before moving to Forked River almost two years ago. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Services were in the funeral home and burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

OBITUARIES

Joan was the loving wife of the late Robert H. Maass Sr. “Bob.” She was the cherished mother of Robert H. Maass Jr., Kathy Kerekes (her husband Wayne), Paul Maass (his wife Alicia) and the late Tracey Bredamus (her husband Bob). Also surviving are her grandchildren Michelle (her husband Tim), Danielle (her husband Bryan), Shawn (his wife Jordan), Shane, John (his wife Ashley) and Michael (his wife Erin Beth) along with her great-grandchildren Leonardo, Leo, Nicolo,

Robert, Andrew and Winona. Joan and Bob owned their family business, Maass Movers in Kearny, for many years. She was the company’s office manager. Their business was featured in many Hollywood Movies, most notably in “Batteries Not Included,” “Believers,” “The Pope of Greenwich Village” and “Fried Green Tomatoes.” She was active in Al-Anon and was a certified counselor, earning her accreditation at Rutgers University.

3 easy-to-grow indoor plants for seniors Do you live in a retirement home and want to add some greenery to your environment? Here are three easy-tocare-for houseplants that’ll thrive in your space. 1. Sansevieria Often referred to as the snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue because of its shape, the sansevieria doesn’t need much light. It also doesn’t need to be watered frequently; therefore, it’s the perfect plant for forgetful folk. 2. Crassula Commonly known as the jade plant, the crassula requires a lot of sunlight. It needs very little water and grows slowly, making it ideal for small spaces. 3. Chlorophytum Usually called the spider plant, chlorophytum can be placed on a piece of furniture or shelf to trail down. It’s esthetically pleasing and easy to maintain. As a bonus, chlorophytum plants often produce

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pups, so you can create new plants to give to others. Besides being decorative, houseplants have a soothing

Novena to St. Jude

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Please grant my request. Say this prayer 9 times a day. By the 9th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you Saint Jude. M.A.

effect and generate a sense of well-being. Don’t hesitate to embellish your home with one or more species that grow well indoors.

Miracle Prayer

Dear Sacred Heart Of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask you this special one favour. Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it in your own broken heart where our Father sees it, then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine. AMEN. Say this prayer for 3 days and promise publication and favor will be granted no matter how impossible. Never known to fail. M.F.

Mulligan Funeral Home 331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

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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

Edward ‘Eddie’ Wetmore

Edward “Eddie” Wetmore of Colonia died peacefully at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, on Friday, Oct. 20, 2023. He was 73. A funeral Service took place at the Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison, on Tuesday, Oct. 24. His final disposition will be private. If you would like to send a condolence message to his family or read the complete obituary, please visit www. mulliganfh.com.

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

Vincent Ortelio

Vincent Ortelio of North Arlington died Oct. 8, 2023. He was 77. Funeral services were under the direction of the Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington. His entombment took place at Holy Cross Chapel Mausoleum, North Arlington. If you would like to send a condolence message to his family or read the complete obituary, please visit www. mulliganfh.com.

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The Observer  www.theobserver.com

and Hawthorne will serve as beneficial especially as those injured starters are expected Continued from Page 11 to be for Friday’s showdown at Newton. ner-up Park Ridge at 7 p.m. “I certainly feel it helped The Vikings (3-5) are one us learn how to compete in of two Observer area teams big time games,” said Tuero, to qualify for the state tourwho’s team is back in the nament this fall. Lyndhurst is playoffs for the first time the fifth seeded in the North since winning the North 1, 1, Group 2 section and will Group 2 championship in travel to fourth-seeded New2019. “Injuries have absoton on Friday at p.m. lutely killed us since playing The Golden Bears (4-4), enter with four-straight losses Waldwick. We finally get to play with a healthy team this as they have been without week. multiple starters on defense. “(We’re back to 0-0) and it But despite the skid, Lynwas a big point of emphasis. dhurst coach Rich Tuero is We lost to two No. 1 seeds and confident that the challenging two No. 2 seeds. It’s time to October games against Rubounce back where it really therford, Butler, Park Ridge

FOOTBALL

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seeded fourth, will host Union City. In North 2, Group 3, fourth-seeded Belleville hosts Chatham, while 14th-seeded Nutley goes to third-seeded Somerville. First round games for the girls soccer tournament are scheduled to begin on Thursday, highlighted by a North 1, Group 4 matchup among Observer-area teams as sixth-seeded Bloomfield will host 11th-seeded Kearny. The highest seeded team among the seven local teams is North Arlington, who is the fourth seed in North 2, Group 1 and will be home to face Dayton. In North 2, Group 2, ninth-seeded Lyndhurst will play eighth-seeded Hanover Park and 15th-seeded Har-

matters.” On Monday afternoon, the NJSIAA seeded their boys and girls state soccer tournaments. First round games are set to begin on Wednesday as Harrison, the defending North 2, Group 2 champions, are the top seed in the section and will face Passaic Valley. Lyndhurst is seeded eighth and will face ninth-seeded New Providence. North Arlington earned the top seed in North 2, Group 1 and will face 16th-seeded BelovED Charter of Jersey City. Kearny, seeking its second North 1, Group 4 title in three years is seeded third and will play Paterson Kennedy, while Bloomfield,

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rison, making its first tournament appearance since 2018, plays second-seeded Madison. In North 2, Group 3, Belleville, seeded ninth, goes to eight-seeded Colonia and 12th-seeded Nutley is set to face fifth-seeded Somerville. The girls volleyball tournament was set to seed on Tuesday, after our deadline. Based on the final power point standings, Belleville is the projected top seed in North 2, Group 3, with Nutley the projected three seed. Lyndhurst is the projected two seed in North 2, Group 2. Bloomfield (North 1, Group 4), Kearny (North 2, Group 4) and Harrison (Central, Group 1) are all projected to qualify in their respective sections.

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir. Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster

39 Seeley Avenue  Kearny, N.J. 07032  (201) 991-1600 Fax: (201) 991-8941  www.theobserver.com

Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising

Michelle Rybeck advertising@theobserver.com Graphic Artist/Real Estate

Deadlines

Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager

Kimberley Pezzolla Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sales/Classifieds Sports Writer

The Observer on Social Media

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

ATHLETE

Continued from Page 12

Visit www.TheObserver.com

View the entire issue online!

especially early on with a schedule that featured matchups with multiple state-ranked foes in Essex County. For Yero, one of the team captains, it meant being a team leader both on and off the field. And for all that Yero brings on the field with her talent, DiPiano saved his biggest praise for what he does as a leader and role model for those freshmen and sophomores. “Having these six, seven freshmen and sophomores start and get to copy her is only going to help us next year. I think that’s the biggest compliment I can give her. Those girls want to be Brooke Yero and if they are, we’re going to be a good team for the next several years. “If these freshmen and sophomores grow up to be Brooke Yero, they’ll be great young women.”

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

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NEW RENTAL! N. Arlington - $3,250 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.

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Clara Maass hosting wine tasting and food event next month

elleville’s Clara Maass Medical Center’s signature food and wine tasting event, A Tasteful Experience, takes place at Nanina’s In The Park Monday, Nov. 6, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The evening features great food, wine and spirits from the area’s leading establishments. In addition to supporting high-quality healthcare programs and services Clara Maass Medical Center provides to its diverse communities, A Tasteful Experience has had a tradition of showcasing the best international restaurants and beverage companies in the area. This year’s attendees will be treated to entertainment, including a jazz trio, caricaturists and a not-to-be-

Nutley VFW hosting several activities & initiatives for veterans

utley VFW Post 493 hosts its third-annual Trunk or Treat Saturday, Oct. 28, from 2 to 5 p.m., at the post, 271 Washington Ave. There will be plenty of music, candy and fun for all kids and prizes will be awarded for the best costumes. The post also sponsors a comedy night featuring standups Anya Jones, Crenshaw White, James Mac and Joe Pontillo, 8 p.m., Nov. 4 at the post. Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door. Call (201) 2359661 for more details. Lastly, the post has partnered with gotsneakers.com to collect sneakers to be recycled. The sneakers will be turned into funds to support veterans programs and the WFW Commanders Project. Drop donations off at the post, 271 Washington Ave., or at 536 Washington Ave. or 173 Bloomfield Ave.

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missed after party. “We are so excited to once again host this beloved event and celebrate the top culinary and beverage talents

in our communities,” said Mary Ellen Clyne, president and chief executive officer of Clara Maass Medical Center. Tickets for the event are $300 and

are still available. Sponsorship opportunities are also still available and more information may be found at www.claratasteful.org.

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OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.

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E.NEWARK E.NEWARK 1st floor 2 bedroom’s $2000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking. Available November 1st (201)772-9965 23W03

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HARRISON Modern 2 BR, Kitchen, LR, $2200 + 1 month security. Utilities separate. Washer/Dryer. No pets/ smoking Avl. November 10th. (201) 6186984 after 11am. 23W03

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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 Free Estimates 21W06

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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.

HARRISON Studio, 1 room with Kitchen. Private entrance. Suitable for 1 person. $750 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No pets/smoking. credit check required. (862)312-6624 24W03 HARRISON 1st floor. 1 BR, LR, EIK, 1 bath, Laundry in unit. $1800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included, including internet. Access to backyard patio. Close to Transportation. No Smoking/Pets Available Now (732)429-9372 24W03

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 Seperate. No Pets/Smoking Available November 1st (201)889-6026 24W03 KEARNY Large 1 BR, EIK, LR, DR, Tile Bath, W/W Carpet, Heat/ HW included. No Pets/ Smoking. Security (201)497-4018 24W03 KEARNY 2nd Floor. 3 Br’s. LR. DR, EIK. $2600 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Driveway for 1 car. No Pets/smoking. Available November 1st (973)224-4937 25W03 KEARNY 1 BR apt. HT/HW included also Hardwood floors , $1,350+ 1 month security. No pets/smoking. Available now. For more Info Call 201306-2994 25W03

LYNDHURST LYNDHURST Large 1 bedroom. 1.5 months security. No Smoking No Pets. Call (201)9319212 25W01

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

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ITEM FOR SALE Clothing, Towels, T-Shirts, Tools, 2 Seat Sofa, Suitcases, Rugs & More Call for appointment (201)9888575 23W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED Maintenance Person/ Mechanic Needed for a company located in Newark-Irvington border. Must have knowledge in welding, torch, light wiring (220v and trailer lights), power washers (motors and pumps), chain drive conveyor and all around maintenance abilities. Salary negotiable. 5 days a week from 6AM4:30PM+. Please call (973) 465-7800 or email your resume to citybarrelinc@aol.com 23W03

North Arlington Ridge Road Office Parking available $750 + utilities. Great Space. Owner (201)509-6965 23W03

KEARNY 1000 sq/ft perfect for office $2700 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Available November 1st (201)889-3118 25W06

PT/FT Driver limo bus and sedans References needed, Call (201)523-1543 24W03

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

LPD

Continued from Page 1 officer before being assigned to the School Resource Officer Division in January of this year. Det. White will remain in the SRO Division, serving as a juvenile investigator. Additionally, Det. White is a certified SRO, a crash investigator, a LEAD instructor and an internal-affairs investigator.  Officer Michael Giangeruso to the rank of detective. Det. Giangeruso joined the Lyndhurst PD in July 2014. Prior to his promotion, he served as a 0 Points patrol officer. Det. Giangeruso will be assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division. Additionally, Det. Giangeruso serves as a field-training officer, a computer-terminal agency coordinator and is a member of the department’s Crisis Negotiation Team.  Officer Matthew Giunta to the rank of detective. Det. Giunta joined the Lyndhurst PD in July 2014. Prior to his promotion, he served as a patrol officer. Det. Giunta will be assigned the Criminal Investigations Division.

Additionally, Det. Giunta serves as a field-training officer, an armorer, a tactical baton instructor and he is a member of the department’s Emergency Response Team.  Steve Batista to the rank of detective. Det. Batista joined the Lyndhurst Police Department in January 2015. Prior to his promotion, he served as a patrol officer. Det. Batista will be assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division. Additionally, Det. Batista serves as a member of the department’s Emergency Response Team and he is a ballistic shield instructor. He is currently the President of Lyndhurst Police Benevolent Association Local No. 202. Prior to joining the Lyndhurst PD, Det. Batista served nine years of active duty with the United States Marine Corps followed by nine more years with the Marine Corps reserves. “The Lyndhurst Police Department is pleased to announce the promotion of these officers,” Jarvis said. “Their hard work

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The newly promoted include, from left, Det. Michael Giangeruso, Det. Joseph White, Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr., Mayor and Public Safety Commissioner Robert B. Giangeruso, Sgt. William Kapp, Det. Steve Batista and Det. Matthew Giunta.

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Giangeruso agreed. “Each one of these officers has consistently demonstrated professionalism and commitment during the course of their careers,” Giangeruso said. “I look forward to their continued service to our township.”

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

DEBATE

Continued from Page 1 former Mayor Alberto Santos, candidate Ferreira and their council candidates, drew a crowd of around 15 people, many of whom were connected to a campaign. Each of the candidates delivered a one-minute opening statement, a two- to three-minute closing statement sandwiched around a series of questions. Many of them came from Kearny residents, others were devised former Board of Education trustee Lisa A. Schalago and the rest were devised by longtime Observer Editor and the debate’s moderator Kevin A. Canessa Jr. The Observer’s owner Lisa M. Feorenzo kept the debate flowing at a great pace as a timer. The event was sponsored by The Observer newspaper. Questions in the debate ranged from the obvious to the less expected, including how the candidates would handle the town’s serious parking crisis, to the use of Air BnBs, to how the town handled COVID-19, to the candidates’ biggest mistakes, to each’s participation in civic organizations to redevelopment, PILOTs and the town’s taxes. Each candidates performed admirably but there were a few moments from the 90-plus minute discussion and exchange of ideas and platforms that stood out more than others. Ferreira apologizes for previous campaigns, remembers his late mum Perhaps the most stark moment in the debate was Ferreira’s response to a question

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

about what he most regretted about his previous two campaigns. In his response, he referred to his mother, who recently died. When I first ran for office, I didn’t know how to handle it and I didn’t know what I was getting myself into,” Ferreira candidly said. “And I think that what I did was I came on too strong in the beginning. I was concerned about defending myself, worrying about the image I was portraying — I know I am not that type of person. And I have apologized for it in the past already and I would like to apologize for it again because that is not who I am. Anyone who has met me knows that is not me. It was very overwhelming. “…this time around I think it was different because I realized, again, who I truly am, how I raised, and I think maybe the passing of my mom had something to do with it. It reminded me the way she would act is the way I should be acting.” After Ferreira finished his remarks, Doyle said, “I just want to say, Syd, you had a really nice mom, she was lovely.” Doyle’s regret: Voting to reopen the Keegan in the early 2000s. Perhaps Doyle’s most stark moment in a similar capacity when was asked to discuss the “yes” vote she most regretted. She barely paused and had an immediate and vociferous response. “I do have a regret and my vote was to reopen the Keegan Landfill,” Doyle said, harking back to the early 2000s when the-then New Jersey Meadowlands Commission, under Susan Bass Levin sold the town a bill of goods, only to never implement a single one of the

promises made. “I really lived to regret that. In the summer in the 80s, I wasn’t an elected official yet, I went to Washington School at the time Anthony Scardino was the commissioner … and he held a meeting in July in Washington School. “I was on vacation, I came back, because it was that important to talk against opening back the Keegan Landfill. And I went toe-to-toe with him on the mic and … one of the things that got to me at the time aside from the odor was just reopening it for garbage and having the dump trucks come in because that was what they were talking about — trash, not construction debris. “At that meeting, he called me ‘young lady’ — I was younger — and that my mindset was in the ’50s. I asked hm if he was going to hire our engineers and he said he had his own in place. And I found it a little bit insulting. And I said are you telling me we don’t have good engineers in Kearny and that’s when he said my mindset was in the ’50s. “Fast forward, Susan Bass Levin comes to Kearny, sells us pie in the sky, we’ll have this wonderful recreation center. Everybody knows what happened and it became an absolutely catastrophe. And that was my regret.” Santana says no regrets how he & the town have handled parking While Santana said his biggest regret was allowing a film company to come to town to do so not too long ago — the filming included a lot explosives, etc. — it was earlier on in the debate when he gave, perhaps, his strongest answer amid a discussion on the town’s parking woes.

The interim mayor was asked as a follow-up to another candidate’s remarks whether he regretted introducing the parking ordinance over the summer and whether he’s handled the situation properly. He staunchly stuck to his guns. “We handled it properly,” Santana said. “We do have a parking issue in town. Some more than others … and it hasn’t been taken care of in … forever. We hired a consultant (North Bergen Parking Authority Director Robert Baselice) with this project going on since 2019, it was the first presentation. And once the consultant delivered the results in January of this year, I just think the public participation, those ordinances, are very important.

“And that is why the ordinances got introduced and that is the reason why I asked the residents to come out. We have been posting on the town communication page, the town website, social media. And we have been asking the residents to attend. The residents have answered. This last meeting last night (Oct. 16 at Schuyler School in the Fourth Ward) was one of the most well-attended meetings we ever had with great suggestions and I thank the residents for being there.” Unable to watch? The 90+ minute debate is available online for viewing in perpetuity. Visit www.theobserver.com or watch directly at is.gd/debate23

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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