e-Newspaper for Dec. 27, 2023

Wednesday, 27 December 2023 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXVI, Issue No. 34

UNDER THE COVER The Observer will be closed Monday, Jan. 1. The classified deadline for the Jan. 3 edition will be 2 p.m., Friday, Dec. 29.

Obituaries will be due by 10 a.m., Friday, Dec. 29.

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

Starting on Page 2.

A LOOK BACK

2

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

LOOKING BACK AT 2023: THE TOP STORIES OF THE YEAR

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

T

kc@theobserver.com

he year 2023 saw a whole lot of firsts, a whole lot of firsts in a long time and

a whole lot of moving and shaking from the beginning of the year until and including the penultimate week in the year. As has been a tradition

at The Observer for the last 21 years, the final edition before the calendar turns to January has always been a recap of the year gone by.

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YOUCAN CALLME JUDGE AL In Memoriam: James F. Hague - 1961-2023

The Kearny resident was always a Jersey City boy at heart and leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary among scores of others

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Hague is seen here at ames F. “Jim” Hague, of Kearny, left at a Rams-Giants game at Metlife originally and forever a Jersey Stadium in 2021. Jim City boy, who ascended from will be remembered being a high school stringer in his for so many things, but days at St. Peter’s Preparatory School there are few who could to become one of New Jersey’s most match his love for the celebrated sports journalists — inLos Angeles Rams.

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Longtime Observer sports journalist Jim Hague dies aged 62

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UNDER THE COVER

Santos, Kearny’s mayor for historic 23+ years, finally gets nomination by Murphy to join the bench sometime this year (See Page 2)

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This year, there is no ranking of stories — just a look back the ones we thought were important. And so, we begin.

Kearny has three mayors Kearny’s history has always been storied. But for the first time ever, Kearny had three mayors in one calendar year — starting off with the longest-serving mayor in history, Alberto G. Santos; then onto Peter P. Santana, who served on an interim basis from July through Nov. 7; and finally Carol Jean Doyle, who won the mayoralty Nov. 7, 2023, becoming Kearny’s first-ever elected female mayor.

(Doyle is not the only female mayor, however. Therese Jones served few a few months, having been appointed to the position of mayor in

paper — died Sunday, June 11, 2023.

He was 62.

And while many of us sit here today thinking, “Damnit, 62, he was too young,” and Jim certainly was too young, boy did he ever pack so much life into those years, whether it was on the basketball courts in Greenville, at courtyard or in a classroom at Grand and Warren, in the halls of Marquette See HAGUE, Page 14

1938, following the death of her husband, Arthur Jones.)

Santos shocked the world when he announced over the summer he would be resigning to become a Superior Court Judge in the Hudson County Vicinage. It meant the end of an era that began when Santos was sworn into the mayor’s seat on Jan. 1, 2000, one year after he became a Second Ward councilman.

Santos would go on to hold the seat for 22+ years, having won re-election numerous times (first in two-year term increments and then in fouryear increments.) While there were many things his mayoralty will be noted for, perhaps the two that most stand out are his work fighting along private citizen Cristina Montague, members of the Continued on the next page

Wednesday, December 27, 2023 Wednesday, 19 July 2023 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXVI, Issue No. 11

UNDER THE COVER

Meet the Jim Hague Observer Female Athlete of the Year See Page 9

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

SANTANA APPOINTED INTERIM MAYOR In split-vote defeat, Doyle says she will challenge him for seat in November election

K

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

earny has a new mayor — for at least the next 111 days.

Then, all bets are off.

Second Ward Councilman Peter P. Santana was appointed to the interim mayoralty during a meeting of the Kearny Town Council Tuesday night, July 11. Santana had been one of three nominees for the position made by the Democratic County Committee a day earlier — the other two were Council President and Third Ward Councilwoman Carol Jean Doyle and retired Councilwoman Susan McCurrie,

who appeared to have been a placeholder nominee.

The vote to send Santana to the mayor’s chair was not unanimous, either, a rarity in Kearny.

In fact, it passed by one vote, even though the final tally was 5 to 3 in favor.

Voting in Santana’s favor were his colleagues George Zapata, Richard Konopka, Eileen Eckel and Stathis Theodoropoulous. Santana vote for himself. Voting against Santana was the aforementioned Doyle, Councilwoman Marytrine DeCasto and CounSee MAYOR, Page 19

3

The Observer n www.theobserver.com ber 2019, the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority gave in, agreeing to a full closure — and a 100% cap of its remnants (we may have to revisit the capping portion of this deal sometime very soon — but for now and since then — the landfill had never again accepted so much as an ounce of waste.

The redevelopment in Kearny is a concept anyone

who has lived here over the last decade or more is aware off keenly. Santos was able to translate blighted properties developers would normally be reluctant to even touch into high-end apartments and massive amounts of retail space. He was able to accomplish this by offering PILOTs (payments in lieu of taxes.)

Otherwise, builders like Ed Russo likely would have taken

their plans elsewhere.

The days of those PILOTs and new ones in the future is something the new mayor and current town council will have to tackle. Doyle has come out fervently against further PILOTs. The same cannot be said of all of her colleagues on the council, but we will save that discussion for another day.

Continued on the next page

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With wife, Renata, right, looking on, Peter P. Santana was sworn in as interim Kearny mayor on July 12,

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Nutley war hero, killed in Pacific action in 1944, finally comes home

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

N

early 80 years after he was thought to be forever lost, a fallen World War II Navy sailor has finally returned home.

On Tuesday, July 11, Nutley Township community members gathered at the World War II Memorial to pay homage to fallen Nutley resident US Navy Ordnancemen First Class Anthony DiPetta, whose

Continued from previous page

then-sitting Town Council, members of the public and this newspaper to close the Keegan Landfill and the redevelopment that has defined a town that anyone who left a decade ago wouldn’t recognize today — almost always for the better.

remains were recovered decades after he was killed in a WWII air strike.

Following a private service, DiPetta’s funeral procession made its way past the World War II Memorial as supporters honored DiPetta and his family.

“We welcomed home one of our Nutley sons who has been gone for over 79 years,” Mayor Joseph Scarpelli said. “The

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The Keegan Landfill ordeal resurfaced in 2018 when residents began to notice a putrid scent in the air that only got worse into 2019. Santos, Montague and company were relentless, refusing at all costs to accept anything but full closure of the landfill.

And finally, in late Decem-

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

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

Classifieds ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ Pages 16-17

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The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Continued from previous page

While Santos has, indeed, moved on to greener pastures as a judge in Family Court, he is still often seen attending Kearny ribbon cuttings, events, dinners, etc. When he resigned, he told The Observer it was his hope he left the town in a strong position.

Time will determine whether that holds true when the his-

tory books are written.

Santana, meanwhile, served as interim mayor following an internal Democratic fight. He became the nominee of the Democratic Party, but did not have full support of the Town Council, just enough to have his appointment approved in a 5-3 intra-party vote.

By accepting the interim mayoralty, Santana had to resign the Second Ward

Town Council seat he held from 2017. It was a risk to do so because after the final votes were cast and Santana finished third in the field of three candidates — Sydney J. Ferreira came in second place — Santana no longer had a place on the council anywhere.

Doyle, meanwhile, became mayor besting both Ferreira and Santana in an historic elec-

Wednesday, December 27, 2023 Wednesday, 15 November 2023 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXVI, Issue No. 28

UNDER THE COVER Though she was never elected, Therese Jones was Kearny’s first female mayor — in 1938.

See Page 19

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

History is made as Carol Jean Doyle becomes Kearny’s first elected female mayor, beating 2 challengers

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Left photos by Barbara B. Goldberg; right photo by Martin Nystrom Clockwise, from top left, Doyle stands outside her ‘new’ office after being sworn-in earlier in the day on Nov. 8, 2023. Then, she is seen taking the oath as Town Clerk Pat Carpenter, left, Niall Handley, her ‘Irish’ son, holding the Bible, and Norman Doyle III, her son, look on. Lastly, Doyle is seen in the Town Hall chambers with one of her dearest friends and Kearny’s soon-t0-be Deputy Mayor Melanie A. Ryan.

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tion where her closest competitor was Ferreira, who had 300 fewer votes and Santana who had 329 fewer. The new mayor will serve through 2025 and she has indicated being open to running for re-election that year.

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HCDO’s backing politically and financially and Ferreira as a Republican with state GOP support.

The most recent results had Doyle with 1,720 votes or 37.5% of the votes; Ferreira with 1,439 votes or 31.37% of the votes; and Santana with 1,412 votes or 30.78% of the votes.

The only other woman who served as mayor of Kearny was Therese Jones, who became mayor herself when her own husband, Arthur Jones, died in office in 1938. Her mayoralty was the briefest in town history and lasted from Oct. 12, 1938 until Dec. 31, 1938. Santana’s term, similarly, was the second-shortest mayoral time in office, spanning a little under four months.

The morning after the election, Nov. 8, See DOYLE, Page 18

Solano and Doyle was replaced on the Town Council by New York City Department of Education supervisor Renato DaSilva. Solano’s term ends in 2025 while DaSilva will have to run in 2024 to keep his seat, beginning in June, for a term that runs through 2026.

Continued on the next page

Pet Direct ry

INJURY ATTORNEYS ANTHONY J. RIPOSTA, ESQ.

kc@theobserver.com

earny has its first female mayor since 1938 and the first ever who is the elected the choice of the people.

Carol Jean Doyle, who for the last 27 years had served as a Third Ward Councilwoman, won the town’s mayoralty on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023, fending back challenges from former Councilman and former interim Mayor Peter P. Santana and town realtor Sydney J. Ferreira.

Doyle ran as an unaffiliated Democrat (her opponents kept trying to call her “independent,” but make no mistake about it — she was and still is a fierce Democrat), opposed by the Hudson County Democratic Organization, whilst Santana ran as a Democrat with the

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Continued from previous page

The loss of a legend — The Observer’s James F. ‘Jim’ Hague It’s not often The Observer is itself part of a year-end recap, but 2023, as it was in so many ways, was uniquely different. Jim Hague, who had been The Observer’s sports reporter from 2002 to 2022, and who also worked prominently for The Hudson Reporter chain of newspaper, as well as The Hudson Dispatch, The Associated Press among scores of other news-gathering agencies, died June 11, aged 62.

News of his death caused shockwaves around the entire Tri-State Area because sports journalists from Howie Rose to Michael Vaccaro to just about anyone who ever covered any sort of sports in Jersey, New York and beyond loved Hague, knew him well — and knew just how profound his loss was.

So many people shared

Observer file photo

The late Jim Hague is seen here with his one and only, his wife, Mary Costello. Jim died in June aged 62.

reflections upon his death, but will bring you a few of them here.

We begin with the aforementioned Vaccaro, currently a world-renowned columnist at The New York Post. Vaccaro took time to reflect on the life that was Jim Hague’s just hours after he died.

“I’ve been a sportswriter for 35 years and I have never met another person who felt as

deeply about a place — Jersey City, and Hudson County — and a vocation — lending a powerful voice to its athletics

and athletes —as Jim,” Vaccaro said. “Not an exaggeration.

Not hyperbole. Jim cared meticulously about his beloved

home’s history and was every bit as vigilant in recording its contemporary triumphs and tragedies. And he did so with a voice that was powerful and absolutely unique. Jim’s imprint and impact will be felt forever. And anyone who ever spent even five minutes in his company was instantly impacted by that larger-thanlife personality.

“For me, when I was new to New Jersey he was amazingly gracious and generous in educating me in every way possible. A good day was always when I’d arrive to cover a high school football or basketball game and he was See RECAP, Page 8

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The Observer n www.theobserver.com

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

da Silva: The Observer must uphold integrity, not act sensationally

To the Editor:

I would like to express my gratitude for featuring a photo of mine in your recent article, “Councilman Who.” While I appreciate your choice in highlighting creativity displayed on that photo, it is necessary to note the absence of factual information because I was never interviewed for your article.

The article, therefore, lacks substance, and this raises concerns about The Observer’s commitment to responsible journalism.

Other newspapers, such as Luso Americano for example, have taken a more informed approach, delving into my past experiences and vision for the town.

The focus should be on presenting facts to the people of Kearny, allowing them to form their opinions, rather than perpetuating a one-sided, tabloid-style narrative.

As a resident of Kearny’s Third Ward for 16 years and of Kearny for almost 20 years, I am deeply invested in the community. My professional background as an executive director of School Support and Operations in Manhattan’s District 4 reflects dedication to community service, clear communication and effective problem-solving.

The positive impact of my work is evident in the success of District 4 K-8 schools, with two of them ranking in the top 10 of the state.

I urge The Observer to uphold journalistic integrity by focusing on facts rather than sensationalism. The people of Kearny deserve accurate and comprehensive reporting. I am more than willing to participate in a genuine interview, providing insights into my vision and work for Kearny’s Third Ward and dispelling any misconceptions created by the current article.

Let us prioritize informed discussion over drama to ensure that the work at hand is not hindered by confusion.

I look forward to the opportunity for a constructive dialogue.

Councilman Renato da Silva Kearny

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Honor roll announced at Kearny’s Washington School Jon Zimmerman, principal of Washington School in Kearny, announces the following students who have achieved academic honors for the first marking period of the 2023-24 school year.

Grade 4 Principal’s Honors: Pedro Leandro Do Carmo.

Honors: Dulce Almendariz, Aaron Bernal, Youssef Bouferdou, Mara Concha Gomez, Arthur Dantas Silva, Miguel Denadai, Jose Dos Santos, Carmela Franco Mendez, Jacob Gallegos, Karla Lopez Chiles, Maximiliano Martinez, Nasir Newman, Abigail Ore, Liam Oshiro, Alisson Perez Flores, Angelee Perez Cruz, Mariana Ribeiro De Sousa, Gian Rios, Hadi Syed.

Grade 5 Principal’s Honors: Zayd Dabaji, Kaici Huang, Lara Vilas Boas.

Honors: Jocelyn Aquino Sandoval, Elias Cabrera, Jade Calva, Dylan Cano, Ana Luiza Da Silva, Kayo Denadai, John De Lara, Angel Garcia, Maria Giraldo Calle, Dana Jimena Graciano Menjivar, Victoria Hempel, Anthony Hill, Ivan Juarez, Emily Lopez, Jamill Mendoza, Arwa Ouchiba, Gabriel Pezzua Carrillo, Amelia Rosario-Gil, Nicolle Santos, Jaquawn Stewart, Eshal Tyyab.

Grade 6 Principal’s Honors: Mayiarah Almeida, Elizabeth Silva, Aliza Syeda.

Honors: Gina Alves, Mathias Campoverde, Briseyda Cuamacas, Muhammad Qadeer.

The Observer family has been able to grow thanks to community support. It has been a great pleasure to work with you over the years, and we are looking forward to continuing our relationship for many more years.

We wish you a very joyful and Prosperous New Year with your family.

We wish you more success expanding your business with our quality service in the New Year 2024.

From all of us at

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

7

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

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The Observer n www.theobserver.com Wednesday, 25 January 2023 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXV, Issue No. 38

RECAP

UNDER THE COVER Belleville’s longtime clerk retires, is honored

by Melham & council

Continued from Page 5 there also. That was always going to be a tremendous couple of hours. I’m going to miss my friend but I’m in also going to miss his commitment and tireless passion for the things that truly mattered to him — his family, his Mets, his Rams, Jersey City and the Marquette basketball team.”

There there was Jack Curry, of the YES Network, who is an 0 Points alumnus of Hudson Catholic High School, also of Jersey City. Though Jim’s Prep and Hudson Catholic are bitter rivals in the sports and academic world, it mattered not one bit when Curry recalled his friend’s death.

“Jim Hague was a giant, literally and figuratively, as a NJ sportswriter,” Curry said. “If you wanted to know anything about Hudson County sports,

HARRISON MATRICIDE Police caution tape can be seen where the body of 67-year-old Rose Massoni was discovered by Harrison police in the early-morning hours of Tuesday, Jan. 17. Ms. Massoni was pronounced dead at University Hospital, Newark, an hour after police arrived. Left inset, news vans from New York at the scene.

At right, a Harrison patrol vehicle was still at the scene hours after police were first sent to Harrison Gardens.

Photos by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

HCPO says suspect fatally stabbed his mother, 67, and also stabbed aunt in early-morning incident

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

A

kc@theobserver.com

67-year-old Harrison woman was stabbed to death by her son in the early-morning hours of Tuesday, Jan. 17, and the man is in custody, facing first-degree murder charges among others, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said.

According to Suarez:

That morning, at 1:18 p.m., the Harrison Police Department was alerted to a stabbing at the Harrison Gardens apartment complex and when they arrived at the scene, police found two woman suffering from stab wounds.

Both were immediately transported to University Hospital, Newark, where Rosa Massoni was pronounced dead at 2 a.m.

An investigation determined Massoni (and the

other victim) were stabbed by Massoni’s son, 32-year-old Victor Temoche, also of Harrison.

The other victim, a 50-year-old Harrison resident, is believed to be Temoche’s aunt, numerous sources familiar with the case, tell The Observer.

She remains hospitalized with serious injuries and was in stable condition as of presstime.

Temoche, meanwhile, faces a slew of charges,

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

A

kc@theobserver.com

Jersey City man driving on Rts. 1&9 in South Kearny Jan. 16 was shot behind his ear, unexpectedly, and Kearny police are trying to determine how and why the

incident happened.

According to Capt. Timothy Wagner, the Kearny PD’s public-information officer, that day, at 6:29 p.m., Kearny officers were dispatched to a 911 call reporting a shooting on 1&9 near the Passaic River Bridge. Kearny officers arrived to find Jersey City

police already at the scene as the 911 call was reportedly initially routed to bordering Jersey City instead of Kearny.

The victim had already been rushed to Jersey City Medical Center by EMS for treatment.

A preliminary investigation indi-

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cates a 43-year-old Jersey City man was driving a Ford Explorer SUV southbound on Truck Rts. 1&9 with his 40-year-old wife in the passenger seat when he was struck by a projectile that entered through the vehicle’s tailgate and struck him near the ear.

See SHOOTING, Page 18

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

especially in Jersey City, @ ogsmar (Jim’s Twitter handle) was the source. Hope he & Ed (Faa) Ford are arguing sports right now. RIP, my friend.”

Thousands of mourners flocked to the O’Keefe Commons, on the campus of Hague’s alma mater, St. Peter’s Prep, for Hague’s wake. For the most part, the line was out there door, as he drew mayors, politicians, former athletes, current athletes, family and so many others. The day after that, St. Paul’s Church in Greenville was packed to the gills, where one of Hague’s longtime friends described his sendoff Mass as one of the most incredibly constructed funeral Masses he’d ever heard.

To forever memorialize our friend and departed brother, The Observer has, in perpetuity, named its Athletes of the Year awards after Hague.

He leaves behind his beloved widow and dearest

friend, Mary Costello, along with many other relatives, friends and former colleagues.

Sold! Now what?

Though there has been no obvious changes to the building, in January word came down the Lincoln Theater was sold to local entrepreneur Shallan Haddad, who reportedly paid $975,000 for the one-time movie house.

While Haddad did say he might consider re-purposing the theater, he also noted he’d prefer to build new apartments on the property. Since January, however, there has been no indication of any movement on the location.

Harrison matricide In perhaps the most tragic event of 2023, a Harrison woman was stabbed to death, allegedly by her own son, in the Harrison Gardens in See RECAP, Page 18

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Wednesday, December 27, 2023

9

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SPORTS & HEALTH The Top 10 Sports stories of 2023

Photo by Jason Bernstein

Kearny Girls Soccer celebrates a Hudson County title at Red Bull Arena.

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

It’s safe to say that 2023 was a memorable year for local sports. These last 12 months saw tears of joy and tears of sorrow, dramatic endings, champions crowned and, for one week The Observer area became the epicenter of one of the world’s biggest sports stories of the year.

Whether it was an international icon or a hometown hero, there were several big sports stories this year, far more than there’s room to acknowledge.

So here is a look at the Top 10 Sports Stories for The Observer

circulation area in 2023.

1. Messi Mania comes to Harrison Red Bull Arena has hosted plenty of big moments since its opening. But this August saw the soccer world descended upon West Hudson in a way it hasn’t in generations. The reason, Lionel Messi.

The Argentinian soccer legend brought a jolt of energy to this country when he signed with Inter Miami FC. As fate would have it, Messi’s MLS debut came against the Red Bulls, attracting thousands of his fans to Harrison.

With tickets going for more than $400 a seat, Messi didn’t despite those who paid big money to see him playing, scoring a jaw-dropping goal in the 89th minute of Inter Miami’s 2-0 win in front of a sold out crowd, many wearing Messi’s No. 10 jersey.

The MLS released its 2024 league schedule earlier this week, announcing thatMessi and Inter Miami are set to return to Red Bull Arena on March 23.

2. Longtime Observer sports writer Jim Hague passes away For 21 years Jim Hague’s

coverage of local sports graced the pages of The Observer, providing a space for local athletes and teams that didn’t previously exist. This June, Hague, who grew up in Jersey City and was a longtime resident of Kearny, passed away at the age of 62, leaving a void in the sports scene that can never truly be filled.

During his four-plus decade career, Hague covered Super Bowls, the World Series and both NBA and Stanley Cup finals, but those high profile assignments didn’t carry the meaning to him that covering sports in Hudson County and

The Observer coverage area.

“There was only one ( job) that mattered in recent years, that being the sportswriter for The Observer, my hometown newspaper,” Hague wrote in his 2022 story announcing his retirement.”I loved every minute that I covered local sports for this newspaper for the last two decades. I gained an identity in my home area that I could have never dreamed of taking place.”

To honor Hague’s legacy, The Observer decided to rename its annual boys and girls Athlete of the Year after Jim. See SPORTS, Page 10

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Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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Photo by Jason Bernstein Harrison Boys Volleyball celebrates a Hudson County title.

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Continued from Page 9 3. Kardiac Kardinals advance to the Group 4 final.

State tournament runs are nothing new for the Kearny boys soccer team.

This year’s run however brought a different level of late game drama.

Displaying a flair for the dramatic to go with quite a bit of resilience, Kearny recorded three consecutive overtime victories.

The run started when Denilson Salinas one-touched a Jeckson Rivera pass for the lone goal in a North 1, Group 4 semifinals win against Livingston.

Three days later, in Clifton, it was Benji Silva who served as the hero, when, in the 82nd minute he fielded an errant clear and scored at the top of the 18 for a 2-1 victory.

The most shocking might have been the Group 4 semifinals against Westfield, when Gabe Gomez tied the game in the 72nd minute. Then, after a Westfield shot struck the crossbar, Hans Zoller poked in a shot for the winning goal in the 87th minute.

“It’s the mentality of not wanting the season to end in these state games,” Kearny head coach Bill Galka said after the Westfield win. “They showed their great desire to play again.”

Kearny’s stellar season finished one win short of a third state title since 2017 when it lost a 3-2 heartbreaker to Princeton.

4. Kearny native Mullen has storybook ending It’s unlikely that New Jersey will see a heavyweight wrestler with the talent and charisma of Jimmy Mullen.

This March saw the Kearny native get his storybook ending to one of the greatest high school careers in state history when he defeated Max Acciardi, 5-3, in the final for his third state championship at Broadwalk Hall. Mullen delivered a takedown in the final seconds of the third period to earn the win over his longtime friend.

Mullen, now a freshman at Virginia Tech, closed his high school career with a 111-7 record, none of those losses coming against NJSIAA competition.

He also helped lead his St. Joseph of Montvale team to a Non-Public A championship this season.

5. Kearny girls soccer dynasty remains alive with PK thriller It would be understandable if some view the Kardinals girls soccer team winning the Hudson County Tournament as a given. Afterall, Kearny has rarely broken a sweat since becoming a part of the tournament in 2009.

This season saw the Kardinals’ status as No. 1 in the county challenged in a way it hasn’t before, but once again Kearny emerged as champions.

Facing a Bayonne team that had dominated the HCIAL, Kearny was taken to overtime by the upstart Bees and then to penalty kicks. It took seven rounds of PKs, but the KardiContinued on the next page

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

11

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nals emerged on top as freshman Makayla David scored on a shot inside the left post, then, senior goalie Aracely Vasquez made a diving save on Riley Williams’ shot to give Kearny a 15th consecutive Hudson County title.

this time.”

Tozduman’s performance was one of several highlights of her season. During the spring she set a school record in the Long Jump, won North 2, Group 2 titles in the Long and Triple Jumps, and once again finished ninth at the Outdoor Meet of Champions.

In November, before the start of her senior season, Tozduman signed to jump at Sacred Heart University.

for the junior to be a household name in high school wrestling.

It was a chance Toranzo took full advantage of. Starting with winning MOW at the Kearny Holiday Tournament, the Nutley heavyweight dominated the competition. Arguably the highlight of his breakout season came in January when he was 6. Lyndhurst’s Tozduman makes named the Most Outstanding history, medals in Indoor Track Wrestler of the Essex County MOC Tournament.

After a strong sophomore Toranzo, who was also MOW season, Lyndhurst’s Julia at District 9, won 39 consecuTozduman entered her junior tive matches before his season 7. Toranzo enjoys breakout year, year with a clear goal - medal in came to a sudden and sad wins MOW at Essex County the Meet of Champions. ending when he suffered a knee Tournament This March saw Tozduman Photo by Jason Bernstein injury in the Region 3 semifiPhoto by Jason Bernstein When Brandon Toranzo reach that goal, and make hisLyndhurst basketball star nals.

Nutley wrestler Brandon Toranzo made the decision to transfer tory, when she finished fifth in Anthony Pizzuti home to Nutley after spendthe Girls Long Jump Finals at indoors or outdoors.

Montvale, it provided a chance See SPORTS, Page 12 ing two years at St. Joseph of the Indoor Meet of Champions.

Said Tozduman after the Her final leap of 17-04.25 made MOC, “I wasn’t going to let “Make your vision picture perfect... her the first Lyndhurst jumpmyself leave without a medal See what you’ve been missing. Visit our office!” er to ever medal at MOC for

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Tournament final, the Blue Tide got its revenge, defeating arch-rival and defending Continued from Page 11 champion Kearny, 25-21, 25-19 in the HCT final.

This season saw three Queiroz had 10 kills, inObserver-area wrestlers win county titles. Lyndhurst senior cluding the match clinching point to give Harrison its third Damian Weaver won his seccounty title and first since ond straight Bergen County 2016. championship and Belleville “We had unfinished busijunior Rocco Negron won an ness from last year and that’s Essex County title, one year all we were thinking about,” after missing the tournament Harrison head coach Nick due to a shoulder injury, Landy said after the match.

“They worked really hard for 8. Harrison boys volleyball this in the offseason and it’s gets its revenge, just unbelievable.”

Wednesday, December 27, 2023 Academy on opening night.

One of the greatest point guards in Hudson County history while at Harrison, Hill has become one of the most decorated coaches in the county as well, becoming just the sixth girls basketball coach to reach the 400 win mark.

SPORTS

beat Kearny for HCT title

For Guillherme Queiroz and several other veterans on the Harrison boys volleyball team, it was a matter of unfinished business.

Fifty-three weeks after losing in the Hudson County

9. Milestone wins for local coaches This year saw three lifelong staples of the local sports scene record coaching milestones.

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10. Pizzuti scores 53, smashes school record Based on the way he was feeling in the hours before his team’s game against Kearny, Lyndhurst forward Anthony Photo by Jason Bernstein Pizzuti thought he was in for a Jody Hill is honored by her players after getting her 400th career win. struggle.

Instead it was a perforIn October, Lyndhurst’s Bergen. Placed in the unenmance for the record books as viable position of replacing a Kimberly Hykey won her Pizzuti scored a school record legend in Hall of Fame coach 200th game as girls soccer 53 points in an 88-49 win. coach when the Golden Bears John Millar, Kearny has “Before the game I just remained one of the state’s defeated Secaucus. Despite wasn’t, I didn’t (feel well),” having arguably the youngest premier programs on an annuPizzuti said a few days later. roster in her 14-year tenure, al basis, winning five sectional “During warmups I felt shaky.

Hykey once again finished titles in Galka’s 18 years as But then right when I got in with a winning record for a head coach. the game, I felt good.” program that she remains the This December, Kearny Pizzuti was completely uncelebrated another milestone career scoring leader. stoppable in the paint on this when longtime girls basketLater in the month, Kearny night, scoring 30 points in the ball coach Jody Hill won her boys soccer coach Bill Galka first half, then adding 17 more 400th game when the Karwon his 300th game in the in the third quarter.

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Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Thomas F. McFadden

Thomas F. McFadden died Dec. 19, 2023.

He was 77.

Born in Bayonne, he lived in North Arlington before moving to Edison 10 years ago.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive in Kearny.

Mass was celebrated at Queen of Peace Church in North Arlington. Entombment was in Holy Cross Cemetery Mausoleum, North Arlington.

Tom served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was a member of the VFW in Kearny. He was a retired butcher having worked at Pathmark in Kearny.

Husband of the late Rose Mary (nee Civitano), he was the loving father of Bridget Woytowicz (her husband Will) and brother of Ann Marie Roake (her late husband Jay).

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to codeofvets.com/donate, 4183

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OBITUARIES

Belleville.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral service on Saturday, Dec. 30, Sharon R. Davies at Grace United Methodist Sharon R. Davies (nee Van Church, 380 Kearny Ave., Mater) of Kearny died Dec. 20, Kearny, beginning at 11 a.m.

2023.

Born in Kearny, Moira lived She was 75. there until moving to Belleville Memorial visitation will be in 2018. scheduled in the near future.

She was a paralegal at ParsonHer ashes will be placed in a et, Duggan & Pykon in Newark niche at Holy Cross Cemetery Mausoleum in North Arlington. for many years.

Mrs. Crowell was member of Sharon was the beloved wife the Arlington Woman’s Club, of Frank J. Davies III and dethe Salvation Army Advisory voted mother of John F. Davies Board, Friends of the Kearny Li(Kirti) and Stephen C. Davies (Karen). Sister of Judy Peratikos brary and a former member and and Brian Van Mater, she is also past president of the Roosevelt School PTA, all in Kearny. survived by her grandchildren She is survived by her husRohan, Deven and Millie.

In lieu of flowers, kindly con- band, Earl Crowell and three sons, Kenneth and his wife, sider a donation to Parkinson Liliana, Douglas and Kenneth research at www.michaeljfox. his fiancée Helen. org.

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Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Kearny girls basketball makes strong opening statement that the Kardinals intend to still be a factor in the HCIAL standings and It would be easy for the Hudson County TournaKearny girls basketball ment. team to lament what it no After the first week of longer has - most notably the season, Kearny stands a pair of 1,000 point scor2-1 as it followed up a ers in Maci Covello and decisive loss to reigning Ava Hyams.

Group 4 champion BayBut while the Kardinals onne with a blowout win will certainly miss the over North Bergen. height and proven scoring “There’s a chip on all they provided, what our shoulders because Kearny does have is a we 100-percent know deep collection of guards that a lot of people are and a healthy chip on its thinking (we’re no longer shoulder. contenders),” said head Kearny’s season-opencoach Jody Hill. “And if ing 61-21 dismantling of I were in their shoes, I’d St. Dominic Academy was look at the box scores and a not so subtle reminder say ‘wow, this team lost

By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

all of their scoring.’ A lot of people are just going to think alright, who else should we worry about because Kearny is not going to be too impressive this year.”

With Covello and Hyams now playing in college, the role of veteran leader now falls on the shoulders of senior point guard Jocelyn Huancaya.

The veteran two-way point guard is averaging 10 points per, while leading the team in rebounds, assists and steals early on.

“She has been a game changer for us,” Hill said.

“She leads by example, she might not be the most

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vocal kid on the floor, but she is our workhorse.

“She’s worked so hard in becoming a leader and a great player for us. I feel confident putting the ball in her hands and just letting her go.”

Juniors Olivia Covello and Jazlyn Villanueva are also returning starters for Kearny. Due to its lack of size, Covello will often be asked to match up with opposing forwards this season.

While Covello, Villanueva and Huancaya bring plenty of experience, its newcomer Makayla David, who has stepped up to fill in most of the scoring void.

Despite being a 5-foot4 freshman, David has already emerged as one of the county’s better guards. She hit four 3-pointers against St. Dominic Academy. Then, after scoring 10 points against Bayonne, David went off for a career-high 19 against North Bergen.

“We’re extremely happy to have a freshman of

her caliber come in and be an impact player immediately,” said Hill. “Not only is she a pure shooter, but she handles the ball extremely well.

“It’s going to be hard to find maybe another freshman who’s coming in equally as skilled as her.”

At 5-foot-9, senior Aracely Vasquez is the starting center, but brings the skill set of a guard to the court.

Sophomore guard Mariel Ruiz is a source of instant offense off the bench, averaging 7.3 points per game this season. Another sophomore, Mason Gryckiewicz, is a versatile defender off the bench who will often be matched up with opposing forwards. Briana Lopez-Reyes, is another reserve who will see time defending forwards and junior Johanna Escalante brings added depth at guard after missing last season.

Freshman Joli Escalante is expected to see

extensive time this season as are juniors Jordan Bailey and Krystal Gomez.

Regardless of who is on the court, Hill expects to be able to play fast and aggressive, while being a better perimeter shooting team than it’s been in the past.

“We’re going to try to use our quickness to our advantage,” Hill said. “We may be small, but we are aggressive and relentless and we’re going to look to push the ball as much as we can. We’re going to look to defend hard and create some offense off of our defense.”

During the Christmas break, Kearny will resume hosting the Charlie Dolan Holiday Tournament on Dec. 27-28. Joining the Kardinals in the tournament are Passaic Tech, Glen Ridge and Abundant Life Academy of Nutley.

Kearny will return to division play after the new year with consecutive road games at Hudson Catholic on Jan. 4 and Union City on Jan. 6.

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Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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Kearny’s Steve Marks receives prestigious planning award

S

tephen D. Marks has been recognized for his distinguished career in planning and significant contribution to the state of New Jersey, having recently been chosen for the Budd Chavooshian Award.

During his career, Marks has been known for been a strong advocate for community revitalization through human scale development, walkable neighborhoods, complete streets, bicycle and pedestrian safety, green infrastructure, environmental protection and social justice.

He has lobbied for smart growth and sustainable development practices, as well as disaster preparedness and hazard mitigation at the highest levels, including through the White House, the U.S. Senate and Congress.

He presented at two national planning conferences and many state and regional forums.

He has been a guest lecturer at many colleges and universities, participated in numerous design studios, and contributed to published academic research papers. He has volunteered on numerous statewide task forces

Marks, center, with his daughter Sarah and wife Rosemary

to update state laws, regulations and policies.

He has volunteered for many non-government organizations and has served as a board member on Jersey Water Works for more than a decade. He has mentored dozens of interns and junior staff members, especially those from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented communities.

Marks is be best known for his work

The Observer’s correction policy

The Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously.

If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@ theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online. If access to e-mail is not possible, please call us at 201-991-1600.

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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sent to classified@theobserver.com.

INSTAGRAM.COM/THEOBSERVERNEWSPAPER YOUTUBE.COM/THEOBSERVERNJ

advancing the Hudson Bergen Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, creating

the Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund, completing the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, planning the Rebuild by Design project, acquiring Hoboken’s Southwest and Northwest Resiliency parks, redesigning Hoboken’s Washington Street, establishing the Hoboken Business Alliance, removing lead service lines from Kearny’s drinking water system and rehabilitating housing units for Kearny’s low and moderate income residents.

However, in accepting the Chavooshian Award, one that is given statewide to Jersey’s top planners, he says he is most proud of being a husband and father to his wife and family.

— CANESSA

Wishing you a healthy,

Happy New Year! from all of us at

ARLINGTON REAL ESTATE & INSURANCE AGENCY James J. Capobianco, President

130 Midland Avenue, Kearny

201-991-0905

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

16

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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.

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.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

HARRISON

KEARNY

HARRISON 2nd floor, 3 1/2 BR’s, LR, DR, EIK $1,800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Smoking/Pets.

Credit Check. Close to TRANS & PATH, Avl. December 15th (973)5176544 or (973)207-7796 32W03

KEARNY 2 BR’S, LR, EIK, 1 BATH $1350 + 1.5 months security.

Utilities separate, No Pets/Smoking Available December 26th (201)406-1924 33W03

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

PUBLIC NOTICE

KEARNY Office/Medical space in great location in center of town/ Kearny Ave. approx 1300 sq feet.

Call for details: (201)538-1319

LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICE CONTRACTS IN THE TOWN OF KEARNY/KEARNY URBAN ENTERPRISE ZONE BOARD (Calendar Year 2024) LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICE CONTRACTS IN THE TOWN OF KEARNY-KEARNY URBAN ENTERPRISE ZONE BOARD (Calendar Year 2024) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.5 et. seq. the Town of Kearny shall pursue a “Fair and Open Process” in awarding contracts for the positions set forth below, for calendar year, 2024, and hereby solicit qualifications in the form of resumes and letter applications directed to the Town of KearnyUrban Enterprise Zone, which shall be submitted to Stephen Marks, Business Administrator 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032, together with documentation showing qualifications and compliance with criteria set forth by the Town and by State Statute. All qualifications shall be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “RFQ FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICE” and the position being sought, addressed to Stephen D. Marks, Business Administrator, to be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on January 11, 2024. Interested parties should review criteria for the various positions attached or obtain a copy from the office of the Town Clerk prior to submission of qualifications.

All bidders are required to comply with N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 and N.J.A.C. 17:27-1 et seq. (State affirmative action/equal opportunity laws) and Town of Kearny Ordinance 2007-(O)-41; as amended (payment of living wages and medical benefits for employees). Each professional is also required to have on file a current Business Registration Certificate.

Professional services qualifications for the following positions are hereby requested: Board Attorney-the Board Attorney acts as General Counsel to the KEZDC and as such attends monthly meetings to report on legal activities; acts as lender’s counsel for loans made by the KEZDC to participating Zone businesses; handles any litigation in which the KEZDC might become involved.

Marketing, Public Relations and Special Events Coordinator-the Board sponsors several annual holiday events and celebrations, including spring and fall sales and marketing event and winter tree lighting event, for which the coordinator will be required to fulfill the following functions and provide and design materials and events, together with promotion and advertisement of the event: 1.

Design, coordinate and implement a comprehensive holiday event schedule, marketing and public relations program to be named as mutually agreed between the parties; 2.

Preparation and distribution of press releases, advertising, posters and flyers as necessary and as may be requested by the client; 3.

Attendance at holiday events and activities to coordinate publicity and maximize participation; 4.

Arrange for holding appropriate press conferences or distributing press releases or advertisements as directed by the client; 5.

Perform any other related duties in the area of public relations specifically directed by the client including preparation and distribution of brochures, pamphlets, newsletters or other promotional materials and event promotion; 6.

Other responsibilities may include preparation of a newsletter, as requested, graphic design and production of a business recruitment package, and preparation and distribution of press releases and public relations materials.

7.

All other duties and responsibilities that may be included in providing the above services.

The Board may qualify one or more vendors for any position and award contracts in its sole discretion as the particular event or service item may require.

32W03

HALL FOR RENT

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT BELLEVILLE $700 + 1 months security.

Utilities included. Fully furnished. Male preferred. Call after 5pm (973)707-6921.

Se Habla Espanol 32W03

31W06

CARS ROOM FOR RENT HARRISON Clean Large 2 BR’s, EIK, DR, LR, 1 Bath. $2350 + 1.5 Months security. Utilities separate. 5 Minute walk to PATH, No Pets/Smoking.

Available February 1st (201)998-6521 34W03

NEWARK Share Bath & Kitchen, $150 + 2 weeks security.

Everything included! No Pets/Smoking Available Now (973)960-5068 or (908)494-5790 32W03

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

HARRISON 2 BR’S, EIK, LR, Office $2350 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking Walking distance to PATH Available January 1st (862)2156880 34W03

1,000 sq/ft perfect for office $2700 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate.

Available Now (201)889-3118

HARRISON 2nd floor 3 BR, 1 Bath. 3 blocks from Harrison PATH. $2800 + 1 months security. Utilities separate.

No Pets Available January 1st (201)856-2290

NORTH ARLINGTON Commercial space for lease 1,500 sq ft. $3,000.00 a month.

Available Now (201)989-9643

31W06

32W03

34W03

THE OBSERVER office is open Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Please stop by for a visit or call (201) 991-1600

We BUY used cars for CASH & fix or we can repair them

J &J ’s

(973)489-3996 34W03

CARS FOR SALE 2006 Nissan Maxima SL $3900 Well maintained, clean and runs well Automatic transmission 3.5 V6 233,000 miles - Bose sound system Pewter color with tan leather seats. If interested, text Dave at (201)8893691 34W03

ROOFING/SIDING B&A ROOFING

High quality job at a affordable price Specialize in Shingles, Flat Roofs, New & repair siding,gutters,

and windows

(201)719-3074 (201)800-2697 FREE ESTIMATES Licensed & Insured 34W06

(We are not a legal newspaper)

Stephen D. Marks, Business Administrator Town of Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone TOWN OF KEARNY URBAN ENTERPRISE ZONE BOARD CRITERIA FOR SUBMISSION OF QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTS UNDER THE FAIR AND OPEN PROCESS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, to all applicants for positions set forth more fully in a notice of publication soliciting request for qualifications shall take into consideration the following factors, which will be weighed by the Mayor and Council of the Town of Kearny as the basis of awarding contracts for professional services most advantageous to the Town: 1.

Resume and letter application and proposal for professional position including all documentation that provides the following for evaluation by the Mayor and Council: 2.

Experience and reputation in the field for the position sought.

3.

Knowledge of the area of expertise for the position sought (i.e. Attorney, Marketing, Public Relations and Special Events Coordinator, etc.); 4.

Experience and knowledge of the Town of Kearny, specifically Urban Enterprise Zone functions and procedures; 5.

Availability to accommodate all required meetings of the Board; 6.

Compensation proposal; 7.

Such other factors deemed to be in the best interest of the Town of Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone 8.

The term of said contract shall be for a period of one year commencing January 25, 2024 and terminating December 31, 2024. · Selection of professionals shall be based on the Board’s evaluation of the submitted material in the criteria set forth in this document.

Submit all materials in a sealed envelope marked “RFQ FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICE” and the position being sought, addressed to Stephen D. Marks, Business Administrator, Town of Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone at 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032 to be received on or before 5:00 p.m. on January 11, 2022.

Stephen D. Marks, Business Administrator Town of Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (34W01)

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

17

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

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.

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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201.206.4845 • 908.387.8150

18

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

RECAP

Continued from Page 8 January, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office said.

Rosa Massoni, 67, was allegedly killed at the hands of her son, Victor Temoche, 32 at the time. Both were Harrison residents. Another woman, believed to be Temoche’s aunt, was also stabbed in the incident, but she fortunately survived.

The incident shook the local area, and especially residents of the Gardens.

“I was very scared when I found out what happened when I woke up this morning,” one woman, who lives in the Gardens and who asked we not use her name, said. “I didn’t hear anything in the night. But I am pretty sure it happened close to my building. Everyone here gets along for the most part (so) to know someone has died so violently is very hard

to believe. I didn’t know her personally, but I heard she was wonderful lady.”

Harrison Third Ward Councilman Larry Bennett, who represents the entire Gardens complex, visited the day of the murder to let his constituents know he was there for them, thinking of them and was ready to assist anyone in need of help.

He, like many of the locals, was just as stunned by the day’s events.

“I’ve represented this area for 16 years and I’ve never seen anything like this,” Bennett said. “It is very safe here. People know each other here. So this is all so sad and shocking.

But I felt it was important to be here for the people of the Gardens, to know we’re ready to do whatever we can to help in the aftermath.”

As of Dec. 21, 2023, Temoche remains in custody at the Hudson County Jail, South Kearny, where he awaits trial.

The year of parking Suffice it to say, 2023 will go down, in Kearny at least, as the year of parking woes. Over the summer months, five meetings took place — one designed for the entire town to attend, and four others, one for each ward — where residents discussed their views on how the situation should be handled.

Early in the summer, the town introduced several ordinances — one that would have established a parking utility, one that would have created a permit program and another that set parameters for new parking regulations.

However, at least two of those concepts were wildly unpopular — and former interim Mayor Peter P. Santana said he was prepared to scrap the utility and there were little to no movement on the permits.

The general consensus was all permits would do is give one one the honor of driving around to find a spot.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

None of those ordinances saw second readings and all three are likely to die a natural death. Doyle has said she will not move on any of them. And, while Santana planned to conduct four more meetings in each of the town’s wards, Doyle has since scrapped that idea.

“I think we’ve heard plenty from the residents,” Doyle said at the time.

The mayor has since asked all members of the Town Council to submit notes and reports based on what they’ve heard to Town Administrator Stephen Marks. Come 2024, the entire council will revisit those reports and decide, collaboratively, how to proceed.

One other proposal — to bring mobile-based parking to town, using the app Park Mobile LLC — was also discussed.

A chief retires The beginning of the fall saw the retirement of long-

time East Newark Police Chief Anthony Monteiro.

Monteiro served in East Newark for 20 years and was chief the last 10. On his way out, The Observer sat down with the chief for a wide-ranging interview — and to say the very least, he was very candid about his departure.

“It was a true honor and privilege to serve you. I am going to miss all the people of East Newark,” the chief said.

“This is not goodbye, but see you later. I would also like to thank all of the past and present East Newark residents who have made this a special journey throughout my career as a police officer and as an East Newark volunteer firefighter.

The Borough of East Newark will always have a special place in my heart. I was raised on President Street.

Read the concluding entries of the 2023 recap online exclusively at www.theobserver.com.

The Dining Directory KEARNY Curiosity by Intrinsic

161 Midland Ave. • 201-458-2225 Domingo’s Bakery & Restaurant 292 Kearny Ave. • 201-428-1904

HARRISON / E.NEWARK Pic-Nic 224 Grant Ave. • 973- 481-3646 Spanish Pavillion www.SpanishPavillion.com• 973-485-7750

LYNDHURST Angelo’s Ristorante

263 Ridge Rd.•201- 939-1922 Tero’s Restaurant 222-224 Ridge Rd. •201-935-8818

N.Shawn’s ARLINGTON Crazy Saloon

350 Belleville Tpke.•201-997-4296 Lassoni Restaurant 602 Ridge Rd.•201-998-0911 The Corner Grill 114 Ridge Rd.•201-772-5631

Want to be part of our directory? Call us today at 201-991-1600

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

PUBLIC NOTICE (Please note: We are not a legal newspaper)

“We treat you like Family”

RESOLUTION 03-12-23 OF THE KEARNY ENTERPRISE ZONE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION: WHEREAS, the KEARNY ENTERPRISE ZONE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, a body corporate and politic duly authorized to conduct business by and on behalf of the Town of Kearny, meets from time to time throughout the year to conduct the business of the Corporation, receive reports from its officers and professionals, and to handle all other business coming before the Board; and WHEREAS, the KEARNY ENTERPRISE ZONE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION seeks to establish its meeting dates for calendar 2024.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED this 19th day of December, 2023, that the following shall be the official meeting dates of the Board, to be published according to statute on the Town of Kearny bulletin board, in a newspaper of general circulation in the Town of Kearny designated for such notices, and filed with the Town Clerk: January 18, 2024 (Reorganization and Regular meeting) February 15, 2024 March 21, 2024 April 18, 2024 May 16, 2024 June 20, 2024 July 18, 2024 August-no meeting September 19, 2024 October 16, 2024 November 14, 2024 (2nd Thursday) December 12, 2024 (2nd Thursday).

WHEREFORE, we set hereunto our hand and seal this 19th day of December, 2023.

KEARNY ENTERPRISE ZONE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

BY: ALAN LAMBIASE, CHAIRMAN; ATTEST: MARIA NENO-SECRETARY

19

325 Orient Way, Lyndhurst, NJ • 201-939-7708

Hablamos Español

WINTER CLEARANCE HAPPENING NOW Our family wishes your Family a Happy and Healthy New Year.

‘Tis the Season… For every new GMC we Retail Deliver in December, Franks will donate $100 to our local food pantries Let’s do a little good together!

2024 GMC TERRAIN SLE AWD QuaLIfIEd CuSTOMERS LEaSE fOR

24 278/ MoS.

$

Vehicle Color Is Ebony Twilight Metallic

Stk# 43910, VIN# RL102724 MSRP $33,965, 4 cyl/turbo, 9 speed trans, p/str/brks/abs/ wind/locks, a/c, driver conv. Pkg., 3 year OnStar, alloy wheels. Lease total payments $6,672 Residual $23,096 Price includes $4,717 down payment with $4,995 due at inception. Lease price includes $1,750 Buick/GMC lease Loyalty cash requires a 2018 or newer GMC or Buick Lease in household.

2023 GMC ACADIA SLE AWD QuaLIfIEd CuSTOMERS LEaSE fOR

Moved by: __________

24 396/ MoS.

$

Seconded by: _____ Aye Nay/Abstain Doyle _____ _____ Landi _____ _____ Marks _____ _____ Millar _____ _____ Neno _____ _____ Pena _____ _____ Peneda _____ _____ Pereira _____ _____ Stahl _____ _____ Theodoropoulous _____ _____ Wong _____ _____ Zapata _____ _____ Lambiase-Chm. _____ _____

Vehicle Color Is Sterling Silver

Stk#54006 VIN# PZ257709, MSRP $42,495, 2.0 L, auto, p/str/brks/abs/wind/locks, a/c, driver convenience, 3 year OnStar, alloy wheels. Lease total payments $9,504 Residual $28,472 Price includes $3,599 down payment with $3,995 due at inception. Lease price includes $3,000 factory cash and $2,250 lease Loyalty cash requires a 2018 or newer leased Buick or GMC in household.

2023 GMC SIERRA 1500 CREW CAB SHoRT BoX 4WD SLE

QuaLIfIEd CuSTOMERS LEaSE fOR

Reviewed and approved by Town of Kearny finance department-______ (34W01)

Vehicle Color Is Onyx Black

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED Part time superintendent for 24 family garden apartment in Kearny. Must live in building discounted rent.

Please email resume to barbaragerbasio@att.net 32W03

36 539/ MoS.

$

Full time receptionist needed for busy office in Nutley.

Prior office experience required. Must have experience handling a multi-line phone system.

Proficient in Microsoft office, as well as data entry.

Hours are 9-5 Monday-Friday.

Please call (973) 420-1235 33W03

Stock# 43565, Vin PG321179, MSRP $60,035, 5.3L V8, 10 spd. automatic, 4Wd, PS, PB, PW, aC. Lease total payments $19,404 Residual $38,422 Price includes $3,456 down payment with $3,995 due at inception. Lease price includes $1,500 factory cash and $2,250 lease Loyalty cash requires a 2018 or newer leased Buick or GMC in household. $695 acquisition + $389 doc fee INCLudEd on lease vehichles. Lease includes 10,000 mi./yr. and $.25/mi afterwards. Price includes all costs to be paid by consumer except licensing & registration fees & taxes. Lease thru GM financial to qualified buyers. all Offers expires 1/2/24. See dealer for details and limitations, not responsible for typo errors.

20

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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645 MAIN ST. HACKENSACK, NJ T: 201.347.5001