e-Newspaper for Feb. 7, 2024 by The Observer Newspaper

Wednesday, 7 February 2024 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXVI, Issue No. 40

UNDER THE COVER Nutley Commissioner Kelly instrumental getting ‘Rise Beyond’ running for specialneeds community. Page 3

WEGOT THECUP!

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

In historic move, FIFA awards 2026 World Cup Final to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford

By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

he next FIFA World Cup is still more than two years away, but the New York-New Jersey area has already received a massive win. In what is considered a stunning announcement, FIFA revealed Sunday, Feb. 4, that the championship game of the 48-country event will take place in our backyard at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. “We just scored the winning goal,” See CUP, Page 11

Main image Wikipedia; Inset FIFA’s 2026 World Cup logo

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NEWS BRIEFS KHS ’74 hosting 50th reunion The Kearny High School Class of 1974 hosts a 50th reunion April 27, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel, 815 Rt. 27 E., Toms River. Tickets are $90 through Feb. 14 and $100 thereafter and include cold appetizers, buffet dinner, two drinks, DJ, dancing and music. Zelle payments may be pinged on the app to khsclassreunion1974@ gmail.com, or checks may be sent to Janine Feamen, 40 Bugle Court, Toms River, N.J. 08757. Payment must be received by March 15. Free health screenings taking place at Kearny BOH The Town of Kearny hosts free health screenings Wednesday, Feb. 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kearny Health Department, 645 Kearny Ave. The screenings will be for lung and breast cancer, there will be breast exams and educational

information will be provided. No registration is necessary. Knights hosting Mardi Gras dinner The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus sponsor its annual Shrove Tuesday Dinner Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 5:30 p.m., at Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington. The Knights will be serving Italian and Polish food, along with traditional pancakes, dessert and refreshments. A viewing of how this day is celebrated around the world in various countries and cultures will be shown. The costs are $25 for adults and $10 for kids aged 6 to 11. Reservations must be made by Thursday, Feb. 8, by calling (201) 9880183. The Knights also ask all attending to consider donating a non-perishable, non-expired food item for the Food for Families Project.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Kearny’s Juana Riog celebrates 105th birthday!

Town of Kearny photo

Mayor Carol Jean Doyle recently presented Juana Riog, of Kearny, a proclamation in honor of Juana’s 105th birthday during a celebration with her family. Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro, Mayoral Aide Lyla DeCastro (not in photo) and members of Alaris Health staff were also on hand for the festive occasion.

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‘Rise Beyond’ will offer many new opportunities for special-needs folks By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

n an effort to help them gain meaningful employment with access to activities within their community, members of the Nutley community have joined forces in support of the township’s Rise Beyond initiative to help provide resources and information to township adults with disabilities. Led by Commissioner John V. Kelly III and the Nutley Department of Public Affairs and Health in partnership with the Rise Beyond committee, the Nutley Board of Education and the Nutley Chamber of Commerce, the township hosted its first-ever informational session Jan. 30 to educate the community about the various resources available to its residents with special needs. Showing great support for the mission, residents filled the Stockton Room at the Nutley Public Library to capacity to hear from multiple social organiza-

Contributed photo

Nutley Commissioner John Kelly III, center, was instrumental in getting ‘Rise Beyond’ off the ground, in benefit of the special-needs community.

tions that provide assistance to special needs adults. Many success stories were shared, including parents of adults with disabilities’ personal accounts of what

gainful employment seeking has been like for their adult children as a result of these programs. Kelly said the idea for the program was

born from a conversation he had with Kimberly Donohue, a Nutley resident who is not only a parent to a child with special needs, but is also a special-needs attorney. Upon asking what more the township could do to help its residents with special needs, Donahue told him: “It’s great that you ask, because there is a lot.” Kelly spoke of how much he has since learned about what parents of adults with special needs contend with since that first conversation six months ago. Although they may have only just begun to scratch the surface, the intention of the initiative is to pick up where the Board of Education and schools leave off in “doing a great job of educating our young people, including those with special needs” in order to “help individuals with special needs find meaningful employment once they get out of school.” Presentations were made by the DiviSee RISE, Page 19

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Opinion ��Page 6

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

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

Classifieds �� Pages 16-17

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

Business Directory.......................................................................................................Page 19

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024

KPD: Woman tried to hide beau, a fugitive wanted by US Marshals By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. with Det. Sgt. Mike Gontarczuk www.theobserver.com

Editor’s note: The Kearny Police Department made 27 arrests between Jan. 18 and Jan. 25. What follows is a sample of said incidents. n On Jan. 18, Kearny Officer

Christos Manolis, along with the US Marshals New York/ New Jersey Fugitive Task Force, where he is on loan, executed a warrant operation at a Beech Street residence. The target of said operation was Brian Taylor, 22, of Kearny. Upon entry to the residence, Christina Greco, also 22, of

Kearny, reportedly lied to task force members, covering for Taylor by telling them he was not home, and attempting to interfere with their search and arrest of Taylor. Ultimately, Taylor was discovered hiding in the crawl spacesized attic and was taken into custody by the Marshals. Officer

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Manolis also arrested and processed Greco for obstruction the administration of law. She was charged on a summons and released with a court date. Taylor was transported to the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office by the Marshals. n On Jan. 14, Officers Darwin Paulino and Sean Wilson were dispatched to a reported robbery on South Hackensack Avenue. There, a victim reported the actor robbed him of his cell phone and was now fleeing toward the intersection of Routes 1&9 and Hackensack Avenue. Specifically, the victim said he had been sitting in a chair when the actor pulled the chair from under him, smashed his head into the floor until the victim lost consciousness, then (according to witnesses) continued to stomp on the victim, before taking his cell phone and headphones. The suspect was reported to be a tall Latino man, wearing a maroon jacket and black pants. Officer Paulino quickly found the suspect — Glendell D. Murray, 29, of Jersey City, and detained him. Upon questioning, the suspect turned over the victim’s cell phone and headphones, then broke into a sprint away from police. But that didn’t last too long as Officer Paulino was able to catch the fleeing man and bring him down to the ground and then arrest him. A search incident to arrest yielded ecstasy. Detectives obtained statements from those on scene. The victim was taken to the hospital for his injuries, while Murray was charged with aggravated assault, resisting arrest, obstruction and possession of CDS at Kearny police headquarters and later remanded to the Hudson County Jail, not too far away from the incident. n On Jan. 21, at 2 a.m., Sgt. Dean Gasser and Officers Thomas Collins and Anthony

Oliveira responded to 7-Eleven on Schuyler Avenue on a report of disorderly person. Store employees directed officers to a man who said he was trying to get home from a party with a “female” who was nowhere to be found. The man appeared to be intoxicated, paranoid and aggravated. Store employees noted the man arrived in an Uber wearing nothing but a T shirt and sweats, despite 10º degree weather outside, after which time he became aggressive to customers and harassed a woman inside of the store, prompting them to call the police. As officers attempted to arrange for the man to get help or home, he reportedly smacked a 7-Eleven customer in the hand, at which point officers decided to restrain him. The man then began to yell and resist, swung his elbows and flailed his arms at officers, until they fully restrained him. In the process, he assaulted officers multiple times by kicking them and he elbowed an officer, lacerating the officer’s head. He was then arrested and taken to KPD HQ. EMS was summoned to HQ where Kenneth J. Jaramillo, 18, of North Arlington, was evaluated; however, Jaramillo refused medical attention. He was charged with two counts of aggravated assault, one count each of resisting arrest and disorderly conduct and then released into the custody of his father.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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Water-rescue team already yielding big dividends By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

orth Arlington’s Water Rescue Team has responded to four calls and provided aid to neighboring municipalities over the course of the months since its inception in October. Most recently, the Water Rescue Team was requested by the Kearny Fire Department to assist with rescues along the Belleville Turnpike after a storm dumped several inches of rain in the area on Jan. 13. In less than 90 minutes, the team rescued 15 people from flooded vehicles with no major injuries. “We are very proud of our fire department and this new team that is now trained to respond to incidents involving open water, swift water, rapid deployment, and also search, rescue and recovery,” Mayor Daniel H. Pronti said. “While the team has only been in place for a few short months, they have already proven to be a tremendous service to our community and the surrounding region.” In December, the team was deployed to provide

back up to the Fairfield Fire Department and responded to several calls for assistance, one of which resulted in the rescue of a resident trapped in a home. The team spent eight hours assisting Fairfield firefighters. “North Arlington’s swiftwater rescue team demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our firefighters to safeguard lives. Each rescue is a testament to their skill, resilience and the profound impact they make,” said former Fire Chief and Training Officer Mark Zidiak. After Superstorm Sandy in 2012, the North Arlington Volunteer Fire Department had been researching equipment, training and funding to support the creation of the water-rescue team. A $20,000 grant from the American Rescue Plan allowed 13 volunteers to be trained in swiftwater response. “As the frequency of water events continue to rise, the North Arlington Volunteer Fire Department plans to increase the number of those trained and to potentially ex-

pand that training to include Rescue Boat Operations and Swiftwater Technician,” Councilman Brian Fitzhenry, a member of the Public Safety Committee, said. Thanks to grants, firefighters are outfitted with full personal-protective equipment including dry suits, hel-

mets, boots, life vests, gloves and water safety accessories. Members were required to undergo a rigorous two-day, 16-hour class. The inaugural class includes Team Administrator Deputy Chief Robert Fellrath; Capts. Brian Marshall, Marissa Piscal, John Gaffey;

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS EDITORIAL

Some unanswered Greenway questions the state must address When representatives from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection visited Roosevelt School in Kearny two weeks, they gave a somewhat stirring presentation and fielded questions from residents on the benefits of the proposed forthcoming Essex-Hudson Greenway which, when complete, will traverse as far east as Jersey City west to Montclair. And while the NJDEP did, indeed, perform admirably at the open forum, attended by what appeared to be around 200 residents, some questions were answered clearly while some remain yet to be answered. One of the biggest questions unanswered is whether the State of New Jersey will build a police substation along the Greenway in Kearny. Shawn LaTourette, the DEP commissioner, said one would be placed on the Greenway in Newark. But that has no bearing on Kearny at all since LaTourette made sure to let residents know the first leg of the project — Kearny and Newark — won’t connect. And it won’t for some time. When Mayor Carol Jean Doyle asked him — some residents asked, too — whether Kearny would also get a substation, there was only one acceptable answer — “yes.” But that did not happen. And that is extremely bothersome and concerning. While there are many other lingering concerns, nothing could be more important than the protection of the Greenway. And if the state decides, ultimately, Kearny doesn’t get a substation, it will be yet another in a long list of ways the state has screwed the Town of Kearny. LaTourette must come to his senses soon and acknowledge Kearny needs this substation and deserves it. No other response, no other excuse, nothing else will suffice. We will be watching and waiting for the correct answer from him.

Lawsuits aren’t the answer to climate woes

If there is one lesson you learn as Mayor, it is to know your role. The residents of North Arlington rightfully hold me accountable for making sure our public works are functioning, our municipal spending is controlled and our books remain in good order. Some officials throughout in the state, notably in Hoboken, have taken it upon themselves to file lawsuits against energy companies for climate changerelated damages, claiming those companies allegedly concealed the link between fossil fuel production and climate change. Simply put, litigation of this level is not the role of municipal or state governments. Fortunately, many legal authorities agree, with Delaware’s state court recently granting a motion to dismiss some of the claims against a group of energy producers. The Delaware state court judge held claims over

OP ED NA Mayor

By Daniel H. Pronti

interstate and international carbon emissions from the Attorney General’s lawsuit, filed in that state, are preempted by the Clean Air Act. While federal courts have consistently found climate lawsuits lack legal foundation, the Delaware decision is the first instance of a state court issuing this type of decision. The Delaware decision underscores what should be an obvious point: Municipal governments should focus on our actual responsibilities, such as cleaning our streets, fighting potential crime and encouraging local investment, rather than getting swept up in baseless litigation against those who produce the energy we use and demand every single day. Even the White House defines municipal

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

Deadlines

See PRONTI, Page 19

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

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

leaders as those who “take responsibility for parks and recreation services, police and fire departments, housing services, emergency medical services, municipal courts, transportation services (including public transportation) and public works (streets, sewers, snow removal, signage, and so forth).” As Mayor of North Arlington, I take my responsibilities very seriously and know firsthand that municipal governments are incredibly important. While local leaders should do everything possible to encourage responsible environmental stewardship, our obligations do not — and should not include — diving into the complex area of global climate change. It is totally impossible to prove a true causal effect between a specific company’s production of fossil fuels and

Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager

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

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Quick thinking of Officer Clifford leads to man wanted in Pa.: LPD

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Thistle 16U Black Team honored

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

Newark man who was wanted by authorities in Pennsylvania is now behind bars, awaiting extradition, thanks to the slick thinking of a Lyndhurst police officer, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri, of the Lyndhurst Police Department, said. Here’s how the arrest came to pass. On Jan. 19, Officer Michael Clifford was on patrol at around 4 a.m. in the area of Chase and Wilson avenues when he came across a slowly moving Nissan Rogue. Police say Clifford kept close eye on the vehicle as it slowly moved through a residential area without its headlights on. Ultimately, Clifford lit up the vehicle, driven by Najee Bullock, 24, of Newark, and he quickly learned Bullock had an outstanding warrant out of Blair County, Pennsylvania, for trespassing, failure to appear and viola-

tion of parole. Three others in the vehicle were not apprehended. Bullock, meanwhile, was taken into custody and remanded to the Bergen County Jail, Hackensack, where he awaits extradition to Blair County. Lyndhurst police say they cited Bullock for driving on a suspended license. “Our officers are out there and remain vigilant, but we remind everyone to help us by locking car doors and removing key fobs and any valuables,” Auteri said.

The Kearny Thistle Storm Black Team (16U Boys) were honored Friday, Feb. 2, at the Pines Manor in Edison by NJ Youth Soccer. They were honored for their performance in the US Youth Soccer Eastern President Cup. The Black team won the Eastern Presidents Cup in 2022 and 2023.They are coached by Ronny Kolbinger. In 2023, the team made it to the regionals in Pennsylvania. After winning the regionals, they advanced to Wichita, Kansas, for the finals. The boys are also playing for their high school varsity soccer teams. The team is seen here with Coach Kolbinger.

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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SPORTS & HEALTH

Lyndhurst-N. Arlington wrestling exceeds expectations, qualifies for state tournament By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Pizzuti sets school scoring record as Lyndhurst boys basketball advances in NJIC Tournament Photo by Jason Bernstein the gym I go to, his friend that played was keeping him updated with the games. He also As Anthony Pizzuti got closer watched a lot of our games (onto the Lyndhurst career scorline) too so it was pretty cool.” ing record, he started to learn Both players may be baseball more about the man who held players first, but they’ll now the mark for 37 years - former be forever linked with basketAtlanta Braves draft pick Scott ball. Pizzuti, who set the mark Ryder. when he drove to the basket What Pizzuti didn’t know was for a fourth quarter layup, that roughly 850 miles away, finished with 35 points and 13 near Atlanta, Ryder was keeping rebounds in the 58-49 victory tabs on the current Lyndhurst over Cresskill in the first round senior’s scoring exploits. of the NJIC Tournament in On Wednesday night, afLyndhurst. ter Pizzuti officially took the It was the third time this school’s career scoring record season that Pizzuti scored 35 for boys basketball, he received or more points in a game and it a call from Ryder. was his eighth double-double of “He called me out of nowhere the year. He is currently averagand he was like ‘it’s Scott Ryder, ing 24.8 points per game for the do you have time to talk?’’ 16-5 Golden Bears. recalled Pizzuti. “We were “It felt great,” Pizzuti said. talking a lot about baseball up in “I was happy I got to do it at Georgia. home. I wanted to do the 1,000 “It was definitely cool (to (points) at home too, but I know he was following). At By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

couldn’t. But this one was definitely better.” “He needed 33 points and Cresskill’s been playing really well so no one really thought he was going to get it that night,” head coach Perrin Mosca said. “But he got into the game, started hitting some buckets and the kids did a great job of getting him the ball.” The milestone and victory capped off a whirlwind seven days for the Golden Bears, which started with heart-breaking losses to Tenafly in the Bergen County Jamboree and Pascack Hills in the Bergen Invitational Tournament. Two days later, in front of a sold out gym at Rutherford, Lyndhurst defeated the host Bulldogs, 55-41 to win the NJIC National Division title and earn one of six spots in the NJIC See PIZZUTI, Page 10

A disappointing performance in a quad on Jan. 27, the last day before the cutoff for state tournament, left the Lyndhurst-North Arlington wrestling team in a bit of limbo as it had to wait three days to find out whether it had done enough during the regular season. On Tuesday, Lyndhurst-North Arlington got the news it had hoped for and few had expected before the season, the Golden Bears were state tournament bound, accumulating enough power points to earn the eighth and final spot in the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 1, Group 4 bracket. As a result, Lyndhurst-North Arlington was once again on the bus on Monday, Feb. 5 for a first round matchup at top-seeded and three-time defending sectional champion Mount Olive. The match, set to start at 5 p.m., after The Observer’s deadlines. The winner will go on to face the Fair Lawn-Teaneck winner later that night. “Once we got back on the bus (Saturday), I just explained to ‘em, I said, Hey, I understand we left it out. It’s out of our hands now, but hey, whatever happens, happens. And then when we did find out the news later in the week, they were happy. They deserve

this,” said first year head coach Matt DeMarco. “They’ve really, really grown as men and wrestlers. A lot of them are first year varsity wrestlers. So coming into the season, to be honest, we really didn’t have many expectations because it wasn’t fair to them because we didn’t know how they would be on the varsity level and they’ve blown through the roof on expectations and we couldn’t just be more proud of them.” While most of the team is young and short on experience, DeMarco’s group does have three stellar wrestlers in the lower weight classes in Kieran McNeil, Evan McNeil and Nate Boyd. All three were champions at the East Brunswick Bear Invitational during the Christmas break. Kieran McNeil, a senior, entered the year with by far the strongest resume, one that included a trip to the state tournament in Atlantic City. Despite the pressure that comes with having made it to AC as well as being a senior leader, McNeil has gone 20-3 this season while competing primarily at 132 pounds. Last month, McNeil finished fifth at the BCCA George Jockish Bergen County Wrestling Tournament. “He hasn’t been putting that self-pressure on himself, and we’ve had multiple conversaSee WRESTLING, Page 11

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

PIZZUTI

Continued from Page 9 Tournament. After the first round win over Cresskill, the Bears got a much-earned few days of rest before they return to action on Tuesday at 7 p.m. when it hosts Paterson Charter in the semifinals. The winner will play for the title on Thursday. “We’ve been talking about our goals all year. We wanted to win the league, we wanted to get a home (Jamboree) game, which we did. Wanted to get a win in the (Hamboree), that didn’t happen, but the next goal was winning the NJIC. That’s been on our radar from day one,” said Mosca. “To get a chance to do that is a good feeling that

we’re and that we control our own destiny.” In other tournament action, Lyndhurst’s girls basketball team continued its Bergen County Invitational run with a 58-39 victory over a previously red-hot Leonia team in the quarterfinals this past Saturday. Sophomore Brooke Harper had the biggest game of her young career, scoring a career-high 29 points to go with 13 rebounds and five blocks. Fellow forward Asya Akar added 19 points and seven rebounds to form a potent one-two combination. Lyndhurst, now 16-5 on the season, will play Westwood in the semifinals on Saturday with the time and location set to be announced on Monday after The Observer’s deadline.

C ELEBRATING 25 Y EARS !

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024

WRESTLING Continued from Page 9

tions and he just keeps saying, coach, it’s my senior year. I don’t know if I’ll be wrestling next year, and I just want to enjoy it. It’s a sport and I just want to make it memorable,” DeMarco said. So I think that’s helping him not only as a wrestler, but also as a leader, which is giving these kids so much help and experience and guidance.” Kieran’s younger brother, Evan wrestles at 113 pounds. The junior has gone 19-4 this season and is wrestling his best heading into tournament time. “On the mat, he came into the season a little slow. He was battling with some sickness that put him out. So he was a little bit behind the eight ball to his standards,” DeMarco said. “But he’s been picking it up and he’s getting high at the right time.”

Photos by Jason Bernstein Kieran McNeil

Nate Boyd The breakout star of the lineup has been Boyd, a sophomore, at 120 pounds. Boyd is 19-7 on the season, highlighted by a sixth place finish in the Bergen County Wrestling Tournament. “He’s a sophomore, but he acts like a senior,” said DeMarco. “Going into the postseason, we’re excited because he’s way ahead of schedule. “He has a good balance of us-

ing that physicality and that nastiness, but he also has a touch of flash and confidence.” At 106 pounds, sophomore Chase Paglio has held his own with a 10-6 record despite having to cut weight earlier in the season. Junior Viktor Kanjuk and freshman Lukas Gallo have been Continued on the next page

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 splitting time at 126, with occasionally one of them moving to 132, moving Kieran McNeil at 138. Freshman Dean Silva is at 144 pounds for Lyndhurst and older brother Kevin Silva is at 150. Kevin, a senior, is 13-4 and has come on of late after missing all of last year due to a torn bicep. Junior Abraham Martinez is at 157 pounds after competing at 190 a season ago. A pair of football players, junior Anthony Amaro and sophomore Matthew Jarvis share the 165 and 175 pound spots. Luis Baitan, a junior, has been effective at both 190 and 215 pounds this season. Baitan, a junior, moved up in weight to 215 when Logan Stitzer was sidelined due to injury with junior Giovanni Scalo filling in at 190.

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The return of Stitzer, a junior who is 4-2 in limited action, has bolstered the upper weights. Junior Darius Cruz, another first-year wrestler, is at 285 pounds. When Lyndhurst-North Arlington comes off the bus, it will arrive as a massive underdog with little to no outside expectations. While they are used to that, they know the experience will prove beneficial not just in the upcoming district tournament, but in future seasons. “On the bus ride home, I think they’ll realize that in the future, this is a huge learning experience,” said DeMarco. “This is a huge experience in general because it’s preparing them for those bigger matches and those matches that really matter down the road.”

predecessor Giants Stadium, has hosted plenty of big soccer moments before, but this Continued from Page 1 promises to be the biggest, Murphy said in a joint video which Murphy believes is with New York City mayappropriate considering the or Eric Adams, which was diversity and passion for the posted on social media just sport in the area. minutes after the announce“In many ways, we got the ment was made. whole world right in our The New York-New Jersey backyard, with more than 600 area was one of the 16 cities languages and dialects spoken to hold games as part of the across our region,” Murphy event, which is jointly hosted said in the video produced by the United States, Canada before the announcement.. and Mexico. Recent specula“There is nowhere that better tion, though, was that Dallas’ captures the breadth and diAT&T Stadium would host the versity of the world’s greatest final. game than New York City and Instead, the honor goes to our great Garden State.” Later on Feb 4, Murphy, in a MetLife Stadium. statement called it “a onceThe stadium, as well as its

CUP

in-a-lifetime opportunity for our entire region; hosting the Final provides NYNJ an unparalleled platform to brilliantly showcase what we stand for — diversity, equality, access and inclusion.” In total, eight of the World Cup’s 104 matches will be played at MetLife Stadium. In a statement released later in the day to NJ.com and others, Murphy’s administration said the matches are projected to generate an economic impact of greater than $2 billion for the New York/ New Jersey region, bring more than a million visitors to the region and create more See CUP, Page 12

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CUP

Continued from Page 11 than 14,000 jobs. That impact is sure to be felt within the towns of The Observer coverage area, located just a handful of miles away. When the United States last hosted the Men’s World Cup in 1994, Giants Stadium host-

ed seven matches, including a semifinal contest between Italy and Bulgaria. Since MetLife Stadium opened in 2010, the venue has hosted 26 international soccer matches, most notably the final of the 2016 CONCACAF Copa America Centenario when Chile defeated Argentina by penalty kicks in front of 82,026 fans. The 2026 FIFA World Cup

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begins June 11, 2026, with the opening match at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. MetLife Stadium will host five matches during the Group stage — June 13, 16, 22, 25 and 27 with start time and opponents to be announced at a later date. It will also host a Round of 32 match on June 30 and a Round of 16 match on July 5. Local reaction: universal joy After word broke of FIFA’s decision, the reaction was universally joyful. Tony Meola, a soccer legend himself, says he is thrilled New Jersey, where he played for Ke-

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

arny High School in the ‘80s as a goalie and for the Metro Stars of Major League Soccer, will get to host the FIFA Final. “So excited that the World Cup is coming to the great state of New Jersey,” Meola told The Observer’s Lisa Feorenzo. “Watching my first Cup in 1982 from our home in Kearny, I could never have dreamed that it would one day come to our backyard. “Congrats New Jersey … and get ready to show the world our beautiful state.” Kearny High School boys’ varsity soccer head coach Bill Galka was similarly excited upon

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The Early Intervention System (EIS), under the Department of Health & Senior Services, implements New Jersey’s statewide system of services for infants and toddlers, birth to age three, with developmental delays or disabilities, and their families. To make a referral to the NJEIS Call the Statewide Toll Free Referral Number At 888-653-4463. This number will connect you to a regional system point of entry (SPOE) for the NJEIS. For children, birth to age 21 with special health care needs Referrals can be made through 21 county Special Child Health Case Management Units. Additional information is available at http://www.nj.gov/health/fbs/sch/sccase.shtm A rápida intervenção System (EIS), no âmbito do departamento de saúde & serviços da senior, implementa o sistema statewide da New Jersey de serviços para crianças e bebês, nascimento à idade três, com atrasos de desenvolvimento ou deficiência e suas famílias. Para tornar uma referência para a campanha de NJEIS a statewide n° Free referência número no 888-653-4463 este número irá conectar você a um ponto do sistema regional de entrada (SPOE) para o NJEIS. Para as crianças, nascimento à idade 21 com necessidades de cuidados de saúde especiais referências pode ser feito através de 21 especial do Condado de criança saúde Case Management unidades. Informações adicionais estão disponíveis em http://www.nj.gov/health/fbs/sch/sccase.shtm

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hearing the news. “It’s going to be absolutely great to have the World Cup Final just a few miles from our town,” Galka said. “It will be great for generations of soccer fans, from youth programs to the high school level. “We’re going to be the focus of the soccer world. When you think of the history of soccer and Kearny — with John (Harkes), Tab (Ramos) and Tony (Meola) it’s just tremendous.” Lastly, Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle says she’s elated FIFA chose Jersey over Dallas for the Final. “Everyone was thinking Dallas,” Doyle said. “And when the announcement was made, the place went crazy. There was a private event by invitation only. I am so happy for the legions of soccer families from Kearny who will get to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We are proudly Soccertown USA and the overflow from the World Cup will allow us to showcase our great town and all it has to offer. “The economic impact alone will be extraordinary, not to mention how frenzied Kearny will be, all of West Hudson will be and the entire region, really.” Doyle said she sent Kearny’s Michael Mara and Michael Battista and their families to represent her at the event as she was scheduled to be out of town. The Observer’s Kevin A. Canessa Jr. contributed to this report.

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El sistema de intervención temprana (EIS), bajo el departamento de salud y servicios de Senior, implementa el sistema estatal de Nueva Jersey de servicios para bebés y niños pequeños, desde el nacimiento hasta la edad de tres, con retrasos en el desarrollo o la discapacidad y a sus familias. Para hacer una remisión a la llamada de NJEIS la estatal Toll Free referencia número al 888-653-4463 este número le conectará a un sistema regional de punto de entrada (SPOE) para el NJEIS. Para los niños, desde el nacimiento hasta la edad de 21 años, con necesidades de salud especiales referencias puede hacerse a través de 21 condado especial infantil salud Case Management unidades. Información adicional está disponible en http://www.nj.gov/health/fbs/sch/sccase.shtm

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Loretta A Hutcheson

Loretta Hutcheson (nee Calabrese) died at home on Feb. 2, 2024. She was 82. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny. Burial was in Arlington Cemetery, also in Kearny. Loretta was born in Newark and she graduated from Barringer High School in 1959. She always enjoyed luncheons with her school girlfriends. Loretta was a supervisor at New Jersey Bell. After retirement, she worked as a student aide for the Kearny Board of Education. She enjoyed her involvement with the Woman’s Bible Group at the Kearny Bible Chapel. Beloved wife of Bill Hutcheson, she was the loving mother of Roseann and Leslie Hutcheson. Sister of the late Vito Calabrese, she is also survived by her granddaughter Noelle. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

James E. Byrnes

James E. Byrnes, 87, died Jan. 27, 2024. Born and raised in Jersey City, Jimmy and his loving wife, Jean Anne (Lannon), celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in October. Along with his wife, he is survived by his children, daughter Jean McDermott and her husband Jerry, son James and his wife Debbie, son Terence and his wife Louise, daughter Mary

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OBITUARIES

Beth Stehle and her husband Michael. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, Erin, Shea, Kelly, Michael, Jimmy, Raegan, Bridget, Catherine, Terence and Meghan whom he adored, and they adored him. He leaves behind his sister Peggy Anne Overton, and his brother Jack Byrnes and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers William and Donald. As a Battalion Chief with the Jersey City Fire Department, he retired in 2001 after 36 years of service. He served in the United States Army, 10th Mountain Division, and also served as a commissioner on the Hudson County Approvement Authority. He was an avid golfer and was able to enjoy golfing not only with his sons, but also his grandsons and

rarely ever missed a sporting event for any of his children or grandchildren. His family and his career with the Jersey City Fire Department brought him extraordinary joy and contentment. He was known fondly as “Chief” to many friends and family. A memorial visitation is planned for Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, at O’Brien Funeral Home, 2028 Highway 35 at New Belford Road, Wall, from noon to 4 p.m. For more information or to send condolences please visit www. obrienfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Ida C. Fearon

Ida C. Fearon (nee Butler) died Jan. 28, 2024.

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She was 78. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church, also in Kearny. Ida was an employee at West Hudson Hospital in Kearny. After retirement, she enjoyed her work as a lunch aide for the North Arlington Public School system. Ida had a true love for the great outdoors. She was the loving wife of the late Harry Fearon and beloved mother of; Cheryl Parillo (her husband Anthony), Harry Fearon (his wife Lois), Michele Ceraso (her late husband Jerry),

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. Keith Fearon (his wife Mary), Kimberly Mc Girr (her husband Danny) and Pamela Jones (her husband Lee). She was the sister of the late Kay Foley. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Anthony, Melissa, Sarah, Alison, Jeremy, Briana, William, Ryan, Joseph, Jared and Morgan. She is also survived by her great grandchildren, Olivia and Hudson along with many loving nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation in her memory to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org) or the ASPCA (aspca.org).

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Retired North Arlington Police Chief Joseph Zadroga laid to rest

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Retired North Arlington Police Chief Joseph Zadroga, who died tragically last month, was laid to rest last week after a Mass of Christian Burial at Queen of Peace Church on Ridge Road. In left photo, the chief’s casket makes its way to the church from the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home. In right photo, motorcycle officers lined up along Ridge Road in honor of the late chief.

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Are you looking to buy a home that is governed by a homeowners association? If so, there may be some confusion as to their purpose. Homeowners associations, or HOAs, encompass many planned communities, subdivisions, or condominium buildings. Their job is to enforce rules for properties and residents. When you purchase property within an HOA’s jurisdiction, you automatically become a member and are required to pay dues. This type of environment may not be suitable for everyone, especially those looking for a little more freedom when doing what they want with their property. Some homeowners associations can be very restrictive. A knowledgeable

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Bergen County joins NJ suit to halt MTA’s congestion-pricing scheme

ergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and the Bergen County Board of Commissioners have filed an amicus brief in support of the State of New Jersey’s legal action against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s proposed congestion pricing scheme in New York City. “New York's unilateral decision to finally address years of financial mismanagement at the MTA by plugging revenue holes at the environmental and financial detriment of Bergen County residents and

businesses is shameful and must be stopped,” Tedesco said. “In the interest of Bergen County’s nearly one million residents, my administration fully supports the State of New Jersey and Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich’s efforts to pump the brakes on this selfish money grab by New York City.” “By joining the State of New Jersey lawsuit against congestion pricing, we affirm our commitment to supporting the well-being of our community,” Bergen County Commissioner Chairwoman Germaine Ortiz

said. “The failure to thoroughly consider the impact on neighboring states is evident. We demand to be part of the decision-making process and will never stop advocating for the needs and health of all Bergen County residents.”

In the brief filed Jan. 8, the county argues the plan will burden Bergen County residents by increasing air pollution and increased traffic. The brief further argues the congestion pricing plan is designed to only benefit New

York City at the expense of Bergen County and its residents. The county’s legal team was expected to receive a decision on whether its brief is accepted on Feb. 5. — CANESSA

FIND ALL 8 HEARTS hidden throughout our paper

LPD: Unregistered dirt-bike rider blows off police stop, films it for Instagram views, gets caught By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

25-year-old Cliffside Park man who was speeding in a commercial area of Lyndhurst on an unregistered dirt bike — and who then took off from police who pulled him over, recording it all and then posting it to social media — turned himself in after detectives figured out his ID thanks to his videos. Lyndhurst Police Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri says on Jan. 25, at approximately 4 p.m., Officer Mark Rivera was on patrol in the commercial area of Valley Brook Avenue when he came across the dirt bike traveling at a high rate of speed. Officer Rivera executed a traffic stop of the motorcycle, which didn’t have a license plate. As Officer Rivera was about to exit his patrol vehicle, the dirt bike, operated by Elmer Estradadelaroca, 23, of Cliffside Park, allegedly fled from

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FIND THIS HEART! him at a high rate of speed. The incident was assigned to Det. Steve Batista and during the course of his investigation, he obtained information that led him to Estradadelaroca. Additionally, Det. Batista learned Estradadelaroca posted images and a video of him fleeing from police on his Instagram account. Det. Batista contacted Estradadelaroca and he subsequently self-surrendered. Estradadelaroca was charged with second-degree eluding and was then released. Motor vehicle summonses are forthcoming.

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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

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

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KEARNY

NUTLEY

HARRISON Sussex St. 1 BR, Ground Fl. Walk To PATH & NJIT. $1200 + Utilities, 1.5 months security, Parking $50.00 No Pets. Available Now (973) 687-7500 38W03

KEARNY One bedroom apartment, Second floor. Nice location. Close to stores. Includes use of basement for storage. $1700.00 per month, utilities not included. Off street parking. Single or couple preferred. No smoking, no pets. Call between 10:00am and 7:00pm. 201-997-2341

KEARNY Newly renovated 1st Floor 2 BR, LR, DR,EIK. Laundry room with Washer/Dryer $2000 + 1 months security. Utilities not included. Close to School & Transportation. Off street parking. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (908)333-7674 40W03

NUTLEY 2 Bedrooms, 3 bath, 3 month lease with the possibility to stay up to 6 months, exterior deck, parking for two vehicles. Ideal for Students, no pets $2,400.00 per month plus utilities, available immediatelyPlease call Cassandra at 973-4247142 39W03

Local Home Care Agency Hiring Honest and Dependable Certified Home Health Aides -CHHA •Bilingual a PLUS • Active NJ Homemaker HHA License • We do CHHA license reinstatements • Offering paid time off and flexible schedules Contact: 973-337-5676 or email apply@sacredhomehealthcare.com

HARRISON 2 BR’S, EIK, LR, Office 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking Walking distance to PATH Available Now (862)215-6880 39W03 HARRISON 108 Passaic Ave, 3rd floor, 2 Bedrooms, LR and kitchen. Good Condition. $1,800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Separate. Available Now (973)7044246 40W03

BELLEVILLE BELLEVILLE 2nd floor Newly renovated 4 Rooms, W/Large Deck $1700 + 1 months security. Heat included. No Pets/Smoking. Available April (973)715-2906 40W03

38W03

KEARNY

Barbara Gerbasio Real Estate

(201) 388-7821 1 BR, $1500 + 1 months security. H/HW supplied. 1st floor apartments 726 Elm Street & 748 Devon Street Call Chris (201)370-8378 Fee required 39W03

KEARNY 2nd floor. Newly renovated. 1 BR, LR, DR, $2000 + 1.5 month security. Parking for 1 car. Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. Call after 5PM (973)418-6621 39W03

KEARNY Newly renovated 2nd & 3rd floor available. 2 BR’s LR, EIK, 1 Bath Laundry & storage. $2200 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking Available February 15th Text or Call (917)294-4024 40W03 KEARNY 2nd Floor 2 BR, Hardwood floors. $1800 + 1 months security. Safe building W/Cameras, walk to all amenities Available March 1st (201)9550001 40W03

N. ARLINGTON N.ARLINGTON 1st Fl. 1 BR, LR, DR, EIK With yard. Quiet Building. Near Transportation. $1500 + Plus utilities. 1 1/2 months security. No Dogs/Smoking Credit check. Available March 1st (973)838-1662 39W06

N.ARLINGTON 1st. Fl. large apt, 2/3 bed with an office, LR, EIK, H/W Floors, Walking distance to schools & Supermarket, all public transportation and NY bus. New upgrade and appliances. Coin operated washer and dryer on site, storage, use of yard, street parking, pet conditional. Ave. Now. Call (917) 3620828 40W03

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT HARRISON HARRISON $650 + 1 month security. Utilities included. Male Preferred. Available now Text (201)463-6988 39W03

ROOM FOR RENT KEARNY KEARNY Large room for rent with large closet space in Kearny. Independent entrance, All utilities included, and Near transportation. $650 + 1.5 security Available Now Call 551-580-1831. Se habla Español 39W03 KEARNY For woman, 2nd fl apt, Forest St. Access to kitchen, DR, laundry. Shared Bath. $800/m + 1 month security. No pets/smoking. Available now(941) 526-6378 39W03

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APARTMENTS FOR RENT

40W03

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Retail Space For Lease !! Dental , Medical, office retail space. approx. 1300 Sqft. North Arlington Ridge Road location !! Call (201)966-8095 38W03

KEARNY Office/Medical space in great location in center of town/ Kearny Ave. approx 1300 sq feet. Call for details: (201)538-1319

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED PART TIME Looking for recently retired or recent High School graduates able to work 2 or 3 days a week to install communication cabling Please email : bradleycomm@aol.com 38W03

The Observer’s office is open Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please feel free to visit us during our regular hours of operation or call (201) 991-1600

Summer Interns for Town of Kearny Municipal Administration: The Town of Kearny has received a grant from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to hire college interns ($20.00 per hour) for the summer of 2024. Interns must work between 150-200 hours over a minimum of 10 weeks between May and August. Interns must be currently enrolled in either an undergraduate or graduate level degree program at a New Jersey institution of higher education. The Town of Kearny prefers students currently enrolled in political science, public administration, public policy, urban and regional planning, communications, marketing, business administration, or a related major. Interns will help municipal government officials with meaningful work, including, but not limited to preparation of a master plan for Kearny’s Urban Enterprise Zone program, an adaptive reuse plan for a proposed community recreation center/theater, preparation of a capital improvement plan, management of employee safety and risk management strategies, review of the municipal budget, finance and purchasing policies and practices, and other municipal policies, projects and programs as may be assigned. Please find application here : https://www.kearnynj.org/ job-opportunities/ Deadline to apply is 4/6/24 39W04

LYNDHURST Liquor License Consumption “C” Bar or Restaurant $58,000 Contact Jim (973) 454-9062

The Town of Kearny is seeking a Part Time Plumbing Subcode Official (Salary Range: $29.90-$39.00 per hour). Open to NJ residents. Applicants must possess a valid NJ DL and HHS license issued by the NJ Dept of Community Affairs. Job Description 05056 http://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/05056.htm. Position is provisional and subject to the Civil Service exam process. Click here for online application http://www.kearnynj.org/JobOpportunities Deadline for application is 2/23/24 . The Town of Kearny reserves the right to interview and hire a qualified candidate before the submission deadline. The Town of Kearny is seeking a Full Time Housing Inspector/Plumbing Subcode Official (Salary is negotiable based upon qualifications and experience). See Job Description(s) here: https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/02071.htm https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/05056.htm The position is provisional and subject to the Civil Service exam process. Click here for online application http://www.kearnynj.org/JobOpportunities The deadline for application is 2/23/24. If you applied for these positions previously, please apply again. The Town of Kearny reserves the right to interview and hire a qualified candidate before the submission deadline.

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COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT KEARNY Great location! 1900 Sq ft. Available March 1st (973)986-6456 40W03

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OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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.

HELLO, FEBRUARY!

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

PAINTING & DECORATING

The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for Registered Environmental Health Specialists (REHS). Under direction of the Health Ofﬁcer, responsibilities include, but are not limited to: sanitary inspections for compliance with applicable public and environmental health regulations, investigations of nuisance complaints and violations of applicable public health laws and ordinance, educational outreach activities, maintenance of accurate paper and electronic records of surveys, investigations, and inspections performed, lead inspections of rental dwelling units, and other duties or special projects as required or as assigned. The position may require periodic evening and/or weekend activities. Must possess an active Registered Environmental Health Specialist License issued by the NJ Department of Health. Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor permit issued by the NJ Department of Health preferred but not required. Appointees will be required to possess a current driver’s license valid in New Jersey. Starting salary is $58,528. see application here https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ deadline to apply is 2/29/24

Kevin’s affordable home improvements * Painting * Plastering * Sheet Rocking *Carpentry and more. Very neat and clean. Don’t miss out on our low prices and great service. Senior Discount Also light moving. Call (201)565-6393

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CDL Driver Wanted Adult Medical Day Care (Belleville) Part Time/Full Time Driver for adult medical daycare in Essex County needed. A CDL with Class B and Endorsement P preferred!!! Spanish speaking a plus. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM and 4 PM. Call (973) 751-6000 39W03

Ofﬁce furniture installers needed No experience necessary Please contact us at (201)803-5468 39W03

Shop Helper Full-time $15.05 hr. Shipping, Receiving, Sand blasting, Furnace helper, General shop maintenances (201) 991-8000 or veronica@ tempprocessing.com 38W03

PUBLIC NOTICE (We are not a legal newspaper)

Cellco Partnership and its controlled afﬁliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) proposes to modify an existing building (overall height 53 feet) communications facility. The Site location is 2 Fish House Road, Kearny, Hudson County, NJ 07032 (N40° 44’ 33.8” and W74° 4’ 57.6”). Public comments regarding potential effects on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Impact7G, Inc., Jacqui Castrichini, 8951 Windsor Parkway, Johnston, IA 50131, 515-473-6256, jcastrichini@impact7G.com and referencing project #VZW- 373/JC. 40W01

PERSONALS New chapter in life. Early retired female, independent Kearny area. Attractive, Looking for male counter part in same category. For casual Lunch, Dinner. Just enjoy life to all its potential - call or text (201)948-6559 38W03

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Find our how by calling The Observer’s Classified Department at (201) 991-1600 TODAY!

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18 WHATCo seeks one-act play submissions for spring festival

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

he West Hudson Arts and Theater Company seeks submissions for its spring 2024 One Act Play Festival at the Theater at WHATCo in Harrison. All playwrights are invited to participate. Submissions are free and due March 1. While full details are available at www.whatconj.org, Holly Stefanik, the 2024 One Act Play Festival director, says submissions must be completed, one-act plays running 5 to 30 minutes. Content must be appropriately PG-13 and submissions in English, Spanish or Portuguese are welcome.

“Including plays in the languages of our community is important to WHATCo’s mission of making the arts accessible to all of our West Hudson audiences,” Stefanik said. Following a committee review, six to eight plays will be chosen for production. WHATCo will host open auditions to cast each one act. Each will be assigned a director, lighting and sound designers and will be fully staged with a minimal set and costumes for performances May 17 and 18. For full details and submission form visit shorturl. at/hlEU7 or send an email to OneActs@whatconj.org.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

CARDINAL TOBIN WILL DISTRIBUTE ASHES AT 2 MASSES

ardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., archbishop of Newark, will celebrate two Masses on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 14, at St. Patrick’s Pro-Cathedral in Newark. A Mass in English is at noon and a Mass in Spanish is at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome. Ash Wednesday is a holy day of obligation for Catholics. It is significant because it marks the beginning of Lent, the six weeks or 40 days (excluding Sundays) of prayer and repentance leading to Easter. The number 40 signifies the 40 days Jesus was in the desert prior to starting his teaching ministry. On Ash Wednesday, blessed ashes are placed

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on each person’s forehead in the shape of a cross to symbolize mortality and penance for their sins. The ashes are obtained from burned palm leaves from the previous year’s Palm Sunday. During Mass, as the priest applies the ashes, he says, “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Throughout Lent, Catholics pray, fast and repent to deepen their faith. During this period, Catholics also abstain from meat on Fridays, fast on Good Friday and make a Lenten sacrifice to represent self-discipline and reliance on God’s grace. Lent ends on Holy Thursday, March 28, three days before Easter Sunday.

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024

PRONTI

Continued from Page 6 local climate change impacts. Claiming such is no more than recklessness, a fact reinforced by multiple federal court opinions. Greenhouse gas emissions are global, which the most recent Delaware dismissal made sure to note. Judge Mary Johnston said: “Claims in this case seeking damages for injuries resulting from out-of-state or global emissions and interstate pollution are pre-empted by the CAA. Thus, these claims are beyond the limits of Delaware common law.” She went on to note that: “Damages caused by air pollution, limited to state-owned property, may be difficult to isolate and measure.” If local leaders are seeking financial resources to cover the cost of climate change, there’s already money on the table to help with infrastructure recov-

RISE Continued from Page 3 sion of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), the Division of Developmental Disabilities, Supportive Choices, Beyond 21 and Attain and Gain Counseling, LLC. Discussions focused on helping adults with disabilities explore their individual interests to help them find employment opportunities to best suit their needs and strengths. Resources involving social activities, access to transportation and residential services were also explored. Township Public Health Nurse Patty Cruz and Donohue shared their own personal parental stories. “There is the saying that ‘it takes a village,’” Kelly said. “Well, in this case, it takes a township.” A video of the presentation is available to view on the Nutley YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@nutleynjgov/videos.

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

ery from climate and weather-related damages. Significant federal funds that are earmarked for infrastructure damages have gone completely untouched. For example: As noted in recent years by former Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette, Rhode Island has used only $6.1 million of the $17 million grant that was allocated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for weather-related infrastructure damage. This is simply bad governance.

Beyond that, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act enacted by Congress and signed by the president set aside $550 billion for new investments in infrastructure, including “environmental remediation,” among other things. Communities across New Jersey should apply for this funding and build better roads, bridges and general infrastructure. It is bad enough some have chosen to waste tax dollars on litigation that people will not feel in a positive way, but these

lawsuits could, and most likely will create higher costs for consumers. Should these energy producers lose and be forced to pay millions of dollars, they will more than likely pass these new costs onto families and businesses through rises in energy prices. Even worse, these lawsuits could actually divert resources away from the pragmatic solutions we are being instructed to implement in an effort to help mitigate potential climate change. I concur with my friend and

neighboring Mayor Michael Melham, of Belleville, as he recently pointed out climate lawsuits will only increase expenses and create obstacles for clean energy. This is both unfortunate and counterproductive, especially with New Jersey setting such implausible goals of 100% clean energy by 2035. The reality is that suing energy producers will not get us any closer to that goal. Daniel H. Pronti is mayor of North Arlington and a retired Montclair police sergeant.

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The Observer  www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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