e-Newspaper for March 13, 2024

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

he Township of Belleville mourns the loss of one its noted women leaders following the death of Councilwoman Marie Strumolo-Burke on Friday, March 8.

She was 82.

“The family of the trailblazing councilwoman are in our thoughts and prayers, and I would urge all residents to join me at this time to reflect on her long legacy of leadership and service to the First Ward, including Silver Lake,” Mayor Michael Melham said.

Visitation will take place Tuesday, March 12,

Jo-Ann Dolan’s love for books carries on as she turns 85

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

If you know Kearny’s JoAnn Dolan, some things are so very obvious it’s impossible to forget. We know, without even having to ask, how much she misses her beloved late husband, Charlie. They were so much in love, going back to their days at St. Cecilia Parish.

We know she absolutely

loves the gift of gab — in fact, when you see her in person, it’s all but guaranteed she’ll tell you a story or more about days gone by in Kearny, her family, folks who used to live in town and so much else.

And, she has an insatiable love for reading.

We didn’t know this until Kearny’s Jonathan Kelley informed us, but she’s been

brated Wednesday, March 13, at 11 a.m.

St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, 63 Franklin St., in Belleville. Strumolo-Burke will be laid to rest in Glendale Cemetery, 28 Hoover Ave., in Bloomfield.

She served on the Township Council since 2004. She was also the president of the Silver Lake Civic Association and clerk for the Belleville Planning Board.

The councilwoman who championed community and collaboration was honored by the

Kearny celebrates Int’l Women’s Month

The Town of Kearny hosted its first ever event to mark International Women Month. Around 50 women, mostly all of whom are entrepreneurs, attended and listened to presentations from peers and Mayor Carol Jean Doyle (seen at center of this photo.) Attendees were raving about the event afterward.

Photo by Barbara B. Goldberg

Jo-Ann Dolan

See DOLAN, Page 19

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

If you’ve been in Lyndhurst lately, you may have noticed the police department has a new cop. He’s called Brody. Just Brody. No last name. Not because he’s

trying to be like some celebrities like Madonna or Cher or Prince who drop their surname, either. It’s because Brody is a beautiful, obedient 2-year-old black German Shepherd who recently joined the force along with his partner, Police Officer Michael

Walker.

Last week, we had a chance to meet Brody and sit down with Walker, Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr., Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso and the Lyndhurst PD’s Public Information Officer Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri. It was nothing

short of extraordinary, what we learned, to say the least.

Brody is one of only a handful of municipal police dogs, trained only on scent-detection — and not to bite the bad guys who won’t surrender when police tell them to.

What was most noticeable about Brody, from the moment he entered the chief’s office on the second floor of police headquarters, was how incredibly well behaved he was. He’s gotten that way after extensive training in multiple locations in the area after he was purchased by at Connecticut Canine Services, a breeder in Connecticut. (That training lasts about three months. And then tracking is an additional six to eight weeks.)

Brody was born in Slovakia, but he came here not too long after he came into the world. And he was chosen from a lot of almost 10 canines after consultation with trainers, Walker and Jarvis — all with Giangeruso’s blessing.

Now, before we tell you about Brody and his role, it’s important to note he didn’t cost the township a penny of taxpayer money. In fact, he was paid for, as was his extensive training, by cash forfeited by criminals in Drug Enforcement Administra-

tion (DEA) cases.

And, his food — he’s going to need a lot of it as a growing, already 60-pound pup — is also being paid for, fully, by a major pet-food retailer (they asked not to be named though, understandably.)

“We are thrilled we were able to do this at no cost to the taxpayers, all the way around,” Giangeruso said, echoed by Jarvis.

Now that we’ve gotten that part out of the way, throughout the hour or so we spent with Brody, he sat at Walker’s side, rarely moving. Walker says he always had and loved dogs and wanted to be one of the few police K-9 handlers in Bergen County. He brought the idea to the chief, who brought it to the mayor.

“We always had a dog in the house and it always intrigued me on what these dogs can do,” Walker said. “I’ve always had a house pet who could sit, stay, do that — but the way these dogs operate though he’s a German Shepherd, he’s a working-line and when we put him to work, the way he changes is just unbelievable and the thing he can do … amazing.”

LPD photo Giangeruso, Walker, Brody and Jarvis.

‘The Addams Family’ set

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

Abusy week lies ahead as the Kearny High School Visual & Performing Arts Department presents “The Addams Family,” March 14-16 at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium, 336 Devon St.

Remarkably, it’s a show four years in the making.

Back in 2020, “The Addams Family” was the musical of choice at KHS. And while the actors all prepared diligently for their performances, which, like this year, were scheduled for March, everything came to a screeching halt when the entire world shut down thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic on March 13, 2020.

There would be no show. No school. Nothing at all, in fact.

But the show’s Business Manager and long-time district Director of the Visual

& Performing Arts program Kathleen Astrella tells The Observer she and her adult cohorts knew this group of talented thespians were ideal to put on “The Addams Family” in 2024

“They are such a unique group of students,” Astrella says. “And they have all worked exceptionally hard to put this all together.”

That may be the greatest understatement about this group. In addition to the countless hours they’ve put in in preparation for the show, the kids have spent their own money to buy props, costume additions and so much more.

This is truly going to be their show. And it promises to be epic.

But why else was this show chosen? It was an easy choice, Astrella says.

“With the popularity of ‘Wednesday’ and it being so big on Netflix, the time was

right,” Astrella says. “The music is also really exciting and gets the cast amped up … and the characters are all so quirky, too, so they’re really into it.”

Danny Conde, in charge of the show’s lighting and the instrumental music director, concurs.

“‘The Addams Family is

relevant today thanks to Wednesday,” Conde says. “Yes, The Addams family are older, but they have a strong message — family comes first, family comes last. It’s all about their family. And in this show, attendees are exposed to how to deal with when an outsider comes around. They are very secluded, they know

they’re weird, but they learn how to be accepted.”

All of this has translated into what should be a fantastic program.

“The cast takes such pride in the characters and costumes and so much more,” Astrella says. “When they rehearse, it’s so evident how much camara-

See ADDAMS, Page 8

Contributed photo

Some of the cast members of ‘The Addams Family,’ on stage at Kearny High School this weekend, are seen here.

Harrison nutrition program gets visits from state

Quality nutrition has always been a hallmark of the Harrison school district. And, the week of March 4, in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, state and local officials visited Washington Middle School to celebrate National School Breakfast Week.

Harrison schools are active participants in both Breakfast Before the Bell and Breakfast

After the Bell programs. In total, the district serves 2,211 students, with 88% of those qualifying for federally free and reduced-price school meals. And 53 more qualify

for the New Jersey Expanded Income Eligibility State Supplement.

Additionally, Harrison serves approximately daily 1,000 breakfasts through its Breakfast After the Bell program, where students may access healthy, nutritious meals in their classrooms after the school day has begun. Some options include waffles, cereal and muffins, served with milk or juice.

Washington Middle School, specifically, serves Breakfast After the Bell to an average of more than 220 students per day, which is nearly 50% of its

population.

New Jersey schools, as a whole, provide 400,000 students with breakfast each day.

“The breakfast program gives students an opportunity to get that all-important first meal, allowing them to focus and perform better academically and in extra-curricular activities,” Harrison Schools Superintendent Maureen Kroog said. “Knowing they have breakfast available is part of a routine that sets a positive tone for the rest of their day.”

— OBSERVER STAFF

Seen from left are Toni Bowman, nutritionist; Arleen Ramos, school nutrition program coordinator, NJDA; Patty Bennett, Mid Atlantic Regional administrator, USDA; Kroog; Douglas Katz, operations manager, Pomptonian; Daniel Choffo, schools business administrator; Kathy Thompson, Pomptonian; James P. Doran, director of personnel, Harrison Public Schools; Art Pettigrew, vice president, Harrison Board of Education; Marienis Batista, Pomptonian; Michael Pichowicz, assistant business administrator, Harrison Public Schools; Maria Vila, president, Harrison BOE; Joe Atchison III, assistant secretary of agriculture, NJDA; and Rose Chamberlain, Food & Nutrition director, NJDA.

Pascrell scores major funding for projects in Lyndhurst and Kearny

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

U.S. Rep Bill Pascrell Jr., D-9, has scored some significant grant money for local projects in the last week, his office has announced.

For starters, Pascrell secured $959,752 to go to the Kearny Lead Pipe Replacement project and that very same amount for the Township of Lyndhurst’s Lead Service Line Replacement project.

“These federal funds for our local northern New Jersey communities represent our commitment to investing directly in the people we represent,” Pascrell said. “The very purpose of good government is to better the daily lives of our neighbors. I can say with confidence that countless lives

will be improved by these projects by way of better roads, cleaner water, reduced flooding and vibrant spaces for our residents. I look forward to President Biden signing this funding into law so we can break ground on these needed upgrades in our cities and towns.”

Since Democrats’ resuscitation of community project funding, Pascrell says he has been aggressive in bringing funds back to North Jersey, delivering more than $20 million for community projects across Bergen, Hudson and Passaic counties in the past two years alone.

Meanwhile, and hardly of less importance, several local fire departments scored nice grants for upgraded safety equipment, staffing and other necessary resources.

In Lyndhurst, the grant was for

$75,000 and in Kearny, $29,000.

The firefighting grants are part of President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s American Rescue Plan and were authorized by Gov. Philip D. Murphy.

“I am thrilled to see Gov. Murphy

allocate $20 million in American Rescue Plan funds to fire departments statewide, including over a million for those in our Ninth Congressional District,” Pascrell, a longtime co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, said. “I fought to include funding for our first responders in President Biden’s American Rescue Plan and I am glad to see the funds put to use for our firefighters.

“This investment will empower 335 local and regional fire departments across New Jersey, providing them with the resources they need to protect our communities and save lives. I commend Gov. Murphy and his administration for their dedication to public safety. In the Congress, I will continue fighting to ensure our first responders have the funding and support they need to keep us and themselves safe.”

Pascrell | Observer file photo

IRemembering Christine ‘CJ’ Jablonski

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

f ever you were a fan of the great TV show, “The West Wing” — and Christine Jablonski was a fan of that show — you know she had the perfect initials, “CJ.” And, you know she shared initials, partly, with the show’s fictional President Josiah E. “Jeb” Bartlett’s press secretary Claudia Jean “CJ” Cregg. And, in a way, our own CJ was a press secretary, herself, only not to a TV president, but to Scout Troop No. 305, of St. Stephen’s Church, of Kearny.

That was how I met her first, when she would send news releases about the incredible work the 305 Scouts were doing. Often, that great work came from the hands of her two sons, Nate and Eli.

CJ lived the Ignatian charism of being a “Woman for Others,” something she no doubt learned early on in her life, perhaps at the Jesuit College of the Holy Cross, in Worcester, Massachusetts, where she met her beloved husband, Jeff, who was also well versed as a “Man for Others,” at Holy Cross, St. Peter’s Prep and in life.

And, of course, anyone who knew CJ or Jeff was in no way surprised their two sons went on to St. Peter’s Prep, leading all of them to live truly Ignatian lives — always putting others over self, always doing things for the least of the world’s people, forever doing it For the Greater Glory of God (AMDG).

CJ and I would always sign off our correspondence to each other with the words “What’s next,” because Bartlett, played beautifully by another devout Catholic like her, Martin Sheen, would always say that to CJ Cregg (and others) when he was ready to move onto something new.

Our CJ was always ready to get new things in so many arenas, not just the Scouts. She did so much for each of them, whether it was the Woman’s Club, the Juniors, Prep, Holy Cross. Her “Women for Others” way was endless, extraordinary. She did so much to make the lives of so many others, better. And yet, she never asked for an ounce of anything in return. That’s just how, who she was. When her name showed up in my inbox, or if my phone rang and it was CJ, I always knew what was to follow would be something important, something beneficial, something that caused a smile.

That will never happen again following her tragic death last week on the ski slopes at Alta, Utah. Yet she leaves behind an everlasting legacy that will be impossible to replicate. She leaves behind an incredible family who will likely never be the same without her.

I — we — may never understand why God took CJ from us at 53. But there can be no doubt of the impact she leaves behind by every person who ever knew her. She was a beautiful soul. And there is no doubt one of the first stops she made beyond the gate of Heaven was to St. Ignatius. And I would bet they had plenty in common to share, because in so many ways, they were alike.

Rest in God’s peace, CJ.

Surely, God is now asking you, “What’s next?”

McKeon administers KMUA oath to O’Connor

the newest commissioner of the Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority by the Hon. Judge Thomas D. McKeon, of the Kearny Municipal Court. O’Connor may be new to the KMUA, but he is a long-time resident and has been involved civic affairs in town for decades.

each & every Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. and Weather with Tony Mondaro Fridays at 1:30 p.m. at www.is.gd/obsyt. Miss it live?

Watch anytime after the broadcast as a podcast. And please be sure to like and subscribe to be notified of new episodes. Share your thoughts live on the air by visiting bit.ly/obguest with you phone or computer.

Town of Kearny photo John O’Connor was installed recently as

BRODY

Continued from Page 2

What he does do is track the scent of several common drugs police often need to find at crime scenes, after warrants are served and the like. When a human takes off running, Walker says thousands of particles fall to the ground. All he has to do is point to the starting point, and Brody will be able to determine the scent he needs to follow.

“Then I tell him to track and he just follows,” Walker said.

Brody’s tracking success rate?

An unfathomable 98%

Brody’s first successful find

A couple of weeks ago, during a strict-liability, drug-related case, police obtained a search warrant for a suspect’s home. Once there, the evidence pointed to a storage locker that would need to be searched, a warrant for which was also obtained.

Detectives working that case called upon an on-duty Walker and Brody for an open-air sniff of the storage locker. After Walker arrived and gave his command to Brody — which in this case was “find/fetch” — he then Walker pointed to items toward the bottom and mid-point in the locker.

Walker then noticed a large gap at the top of the locker, Brody sniffed up there — and then he sat down. That sit-down was a sign he smelled the target scent.

Along the top of the gap?

Suspected crack-cocaine and heroin, precisely what the detectives were looking for.

Brody’s win was a victory for himself, the detectives, Walker and the entire department — and the evidence will now be available for trial.

“Him sitting down is his way of saying, ‘Dad, I found what you wanted,’” Walker said.

Brody is certified to detect five potent, illegal substances: cocaine, crack-cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and methamphetamines.

He is not, however, certified on sniffing for fentanyl, since that drug is so heavily concentrated that only a scintilla of it could be enough to take Brody or any human out.

And because of this awful reality, naloxone (Narcan) is readily available for Brody in case, God forbid, he ever ingests it in too high a quantity. There’s also a special oxygen mask that may be deployed on his nose to help if needed, also.

Now, while Walker gives commands to Brody to begin his work, if he happens to be out and about and he sits down without prompting, it could mean he’s positively ID’d a substance on a nearby person or on some close object. So it is very possible he could score a find even if he isn’t on duty or told to go to work.

Meanwhile, once Brody is put to work, he is rewarded after a successful find.

“His reward is a (special) ball,” Walker said. “Then I play with him — and that’s it.”

The partners work regular

12-hour shifts, sometimes on the day shift, sometimes at night. For the Lyndhurst PD, both are now on-call 24-7; if an outside agency calls for mutual aid — it’s already happened with nearby Rutherford for a case — Brody and Walker will take the calls but only if they’re already on duty; otherwise, those departments

bank. Installing new shelving and replacing the bathroom fixtures are reasonably economical.

P.S.

will have to look elsewhere.

When the duo aren’t working, Brody comes home to Walker’s place — where he lives with his wife, who is expecting her first child. Sometimes, he’s inside the house, but there’s a special, heated outdoor kennel for him too.

And speaking of kennels, a Lyndhurst PD vehicle — a Ford Explorer — was recently retrofitted for Brody (you can see that in one of the included photos.)

In all, Brody is a great boy — and he’s a true asset to the department and the Walker family. And it’s another example of where the Lyndhurst PD excels and stands out.

“We continue to be a very progressive department,” Auteri said. “This is just one of the many ways we do so.”

Homeowners will need to consider whether they want to renovate themselves or hire a professional. When it comes time to sell your home, let us help you turn your home into one that will attract just the right buyers, the one that makes them say, “no need to look any further, THIS IS THE ONE WE WANT!” You’ll be saying that too, when you put us in charge of the complicated process of selling your home. Looking for a solution to your real estate dilemmas? Calling on us is the first step to a successful transaction whether you’re selling or buying. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”

Jarvis & Brody

PBA 21 raises funds for Special Olympics at Snow Bowl

Several members of the Kearny PBA No. 21, seen here, took part in the Snow Bowl at Metlife Stadium recently to raise money directly for the Special Olympics, the organization’s President Mina Ekladious says. This is one of many initiatives PBA No. 21 takes part in to raise funds for local organizations and those in need of assistance.

ADDAMS

Continued from Page 3

derie exists.”

And for Conde, it all comes full circle.

He joined the Kearny HS staff in the 2019-2020 school year. His first show was supposed to be “The Addams Family.”

“It’s been great to be a part of,” he says.

The roles in the show include Morticia, played by Haley Felix with Brianna Lopez as the understudy; Gomez is played by Bolivar Suero, with Paulo Acevedo the understudy; Wednesday is played by Nia Brathwaite, Brianna Lopez is understudy; Lucas Beineke is played by Adriano Rivera, Blake Torres is the understudy. Alice is played by Emma Avila, Nicole Lugo is the understudy.

Also, Mal Beineke is played by Paulo Acevedo with Piero Gonzalez as understudy; Pugsley is played by Blake Torres, Jensen Bonilla is the understudy; Grandma’s

played by Gustavo De Lima and Sarah Fonseca in the understudy. Uncle Fester comes to life by Miguel Pinero, Gustavo De Lima is his understudy; Lurch is played by Gian Luca Sanchez, Erick De Lima is his understudy.

In the orchestra with their instruments are: reed 1, Charly Castiblanco; reed 2, Michael Gennari; violin 1, Ashlyn Olson; cello, Christine Mello; bass, Amanda Waters; trombone, Will Newrock; trumpet, Benny Diaz; guitar, Kevin Grzybek; keyboard 1, Owen Seaver; keyboard 2, Antonio Aquino; percussion, Paul Robertson and drums, Sanjay Pamaar.

The adult team includes Milagros Gonzalez, stage director and choreographer; Owen Seaver, vocal coach; Danny Conde, instrumental music director and lighting and design; Ian Costello, set design; Dave Caravella, sound engineer; Astrella, business manager and the program was designed by Joe Domalewski.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens.

SPORTS & HEALTH

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

A year ago, William Mullins connection with Kearny High School sports was limited to watching live streams of basketball games as he lay in a bed at Hackensack University Medical Center, recovering from his latest treatment against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

A little more than 16 months after receiving the diagnosis, Mullins is back on the court and inspiring many.

Granted a fifth year of eligibility by the NJSIAA, Mullins was able to enjoy the senior basketball season the disease deprived him of last year and is currently getting ready to compete on the volleyball court this spring.

For Mullins, one of the state’s premier volleyball players as a junior, it’s an opportunity he doesn’t take for granted after all he’s been through.

“This means so much to me and I’m very grateful to be back,” Mullins said. “I’m thankful to God and just everyone who’s been around and helped me - my family, the hospital, friends.Just

Less than two years after Leukemia diagnosis, Mullins continues to play and inspire

being able to get back means so much. Iti is what I love to do.

“When I was in the hospital and not feeling well, one of the things that motivated me to get back and push through was that I wanted to get back to playing sports.”

Mullins admits that he still doesn’t feel 100-percent back to where he was before the diagnosis and the still on-going 30-month treatment and recovery program. He did continue to feel stronger as the season progressed and his conditioning continued to improve.

The most prominent example came on Senior Night when Mullins scored a season-high 16 points and younger brother Matheus had 13 with 12 rebounds as the Kardinals defeated McNair, 53-45, avenging a 36-point loss to the Cougars on opening day.

“That was a big moment,” said Mullins. “A special moment for me.”

Playing with Matheus and with his father Bill, as the head coach, William Mullins enjoyed several special mo-

ments on the basketball and volleyball courts his junior season. That spring of 2022, Mullins was an All-State, Third Team selection and the HCIAL Player of the Year by NJ.com as he helped lead Kearny to its first ever Hudson County championship.

As a two-sport star who also was among the top five in his class academically, Mullins seemingly had everything going into his senior year. But after joining cross country in the fall of 2022, he started struggling with fatigue.

According to Mullins, not only did he notice his times getting worse as the season progressed, but he also remembered getting winded going up and down stairs at Kearny High School.

After a series of tests, on Nov. 2, Mullins was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

“Instead of getting better, I was getting more tired, just getting out of breath a lot easier,” William Mullins recalled. “Then at school, I started to notice I couldn’t even walk up the stairs without huffing and puffing when I got to the top, which is not normal for me. I

Former Harrison football star Huseinovic gets pro opportunity in Italy

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

For Dustin Huseinovic, the opportunity to play professional football was something the Harrison native wasn’t going to pass up. So when the former Harrison High School star and NCAA Division II All-American at Pace was offered the opportunity to play in Italy this past January, Huseinovic dropped everything to make this goal a reality.

Now, a 6-foot-1, 220-pound linebacker/safety who also plays some running back for Rhinos Milano of the Italian Football League, Huseinovic isn’t taking this chance for granted.

“To still be playing the game means the world to me!” said Huseinovic. “Not everyone is blessed enough to get an opportunity like this so I want to make sure I take full advantage of it. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how thankful I am to still be playing this beautiful game!”

Huseinovic was coaching, both as an assistant under former Harrison head man Dan Hicks and Hudson Catholic, as well as in collaboration with the organization “Whole 9 Bayonne” with fellow local standouts Paris Crawford and Damon Small.

mal Lyndhurst with the hope of a call for his playing services.

Said Huseinovic, “throughout my time coaching I continued my workout regimen because I had the belief that I would be blessed with the opportunity to start my career at the professional level.”

Eventually that call came in the form of a message on X (formerly Twitter) from Rhinos Milano’s general manager.

After multiple Zoom calls with head coach Christian Nobile, Huseinovic was offered a contract, which he signed in January. Huseinovic is one the three “import” players on Rhinos Milano’s roster, the maximum allowed by the IFL.

“Dustin is a very precious player for our defense; he immediately made himself available to everyone,” Nobile said in an interview with FirstDownMag.com. “He has all the qualities that a linebacker needs: He’s fast, intelligent, and has excellent physicality.”

“I’ve worked pretty much my whole life to get the opportunity to play football professionally, so when the opportunity came I was ready to drop everything and go with no hesitation,” Huseinovic said. “The career of a football player is usually not a long one, so I know I have to enjoy every moment of it without any regret.”

Huseinovic, who has family lineage from Ireland as well as Montenegro, said he has greatly enjoyed the opportunity to live in Milan, comparing the Italian

See MULLINS, Page 10 See

Even while doing this as well as hosting the “Dustin Huseinovic Youth Football Camp” for the kids of Hudson County with Whole 9 Bayonne, Huseinovic stuck to his longtime football training regiment at FasstAni-

Photo courtesy of Jaqueline Mullins

MULLINS

Continued from Page 9

was just very sluggish and I could tell something was off.”

While Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia is treatable, Mullins was going to have to receive a 30-month chemotherapy treatment cycle. The effects of the chemo on his body would prevent him from attending school in person, let alone play sports alongside Matheus.

William Mullins spent several nights in the hospital during the first 10 months of the treatment and was so weakened by the chemo, he often had trouble walking during those early stages.

During that same time, the Kearny community held several fundraisers in William’s honor and to support leukemia awareness, including a boys and girls basketball double-header that raised $3,000.

“It was very nice to know that everything that people were

doing for me, how much they cared for me, how much they were thinking about me and all of the prayers and support,” Mullins said. I really appreciate that. And it helped me feel a lot better too, to know that other people were hearing and thinking about me. I’m very grateful for that.”

As William Mullins’ health started to improve, others, most notably Kearny athletic director Vincent Almeida and retired Kardinals freshman coach Bob Lucas started working on applying for a fifth-year waiver with the NJSIAA.

Mullins’ waiver was approved in August. It was then that Mullins and Lucas embarked on a plan to get William’s strength and conditioning to a level that would allow him to play when boys basketball practice began in late November.

William was able to play in Kearny’s opener on Dec. 14, scoring five points in a loss at McNair.

“Now I had a date to work towards and what Coach Lucas

did was he basically set out a plan with me at the start of September,” said William Mullins. “It was an 85-day plan for the season where we had a planned outline, how we were going to work out, what days of the week and it was just a very big help.”

William Mullins’ return to the floor did come with some concessions. The steroid treatments used in Williams’ recovery, led to significant weight gain as the 6-foot-3 forward started the season at 220 pounds after playing at 185 two years earlier.

Playing alongside Matheus again and with Bill now in the role of father in the stands instead of head coach, William averaged 5.5 points per game this season. The initial weight gain had Williams playing more of an inside the paint role as his endurance continued to improve. Thanks to the training program he continued, he was down to 200 pounds by the end of the basketball season.

“I wanted to get back out

there and play with (Matheus),” Mullins said. “My father would help me with working out and shooting because I had gotten so weak that I could only reach the basket two feet away. That’s how weak I was (last spring).

While a different player than he was before the illness, Mullins was able to play in all, but a handful of games this season for Kearny. The only time he missed was on days he had to undergo treatment as the roughly once a month sessions would leave him too weak to play that day.

“(Building up) my endurance was hard because I wasn’t running for as long as I was before. I couldn’t last as long as before on the court,” said Mullins. “I was also slower, so I did more playing inside in the post.

“I felt it’s a process, take it slow and I could get there. If you had told me a year ago at this time that I would have been able to play and compete on the basketball team and now looking forward to volleyball, I might not

have believed you considering where I was at.”

Now the focus is on volleyball for Mullins with the goal to bring another county title back to Kearny. Without William, the Kardinals went 15-7 and lost in the Hudson County Tournament final to rival Harrison.

While Kearny should once again be a contender in the county and its state tournament section, what matters most is that William is back and healthy for the Kardinals. Just a year removed from barely being able to walk out of bed, it’s something Williams knows he can’t take for granted.

“I definitely learned to appreciate things more because you never know what you have and how easily it can be taken away,” said Mullins, who hopes to play sports in college. “It’s (about) just facing challenges, just putting your best foot forward, and knowing that whatever’s happening just keep fighting. Just keep trying to get through it.”

You’re only 45. You still need a colon cancer screening.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Along with eating healthy and regular exercise, your best bet for good colon health is to get a colon cancer screening. Individuals at average risk for colorectal cancer should begin screening at age 45. Individuals at higher risk should speak to their doctor about getting screened sooner. Regular screening can detect and prevent colorectal cancer in its earliest stages, which is when the cancer is most treatable. Should your screening indicate the need for treatment, we offer the latest options, from complex surgical procedures and radiation therapy to clinical trials and precision medicine. The best screening is the one that gets completed, so schedule yours now at rwjbh.org/colonscreening

HUSEINOVIC

Continued from Page 9

city to New York City.

“The adjustment to living in Italy has been smooth,” said Huseinovic. “I always tell people Milan is like Manhattan. From the public transportation, good food, fashion, business and cultural stapoint, it is like the NYC of Italy. I love it and I think most people from NJ/NY would feel the same way.”

A do-everything player at Harrison, Huseinovic scored 25 touchdowns over three seasons, while playing running back, wide receiver, linebacker and safety for the Blue Tide, highlighted by the school’s first playoff appearance in 27 years his junior season.

Huseinovic, who was The Observer’s Male Athlete of the Year

for 2017-2018 due to his performances in football and baseball, went to Pace on a football scholarship. In a stellar four-year career, Huseinovic recorded 289 tackles and 5 1/2 sacks with five interceptions and four fumble recoveries.

Twice, an All-Northeast 10 Conference First Team Defense selection at linebacker, Huseinovic was an All-American Honorable Mention as a junior in 2021 when he recorded 107 tackles, including a conference-best 61 solo stops.

Huseinovic was an All-Conference honoree all four seasons at Pace and was invited to participate in the Tropical Bowl and the FCS National Bowl for hopeful NFL Draft prospects from non-Division 1 FBS schools.

Rhino Milano, which has been playing since 1976, is currently 1-2 on the season.

Premier Car e TALK S

ATIVAN

Ativan, also known by its generic name lorazepam, is a prescription medication that belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It primarily treats anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Ativan works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain, which helps reduce excessive brain activity and induce feelings of calm and relaxation. It is also sometimes prescribed to manage symptoms of insomnia, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal. Ativan is available in tablet, oral solution, and injection forms. Ativan has a potential for dependence and abuse, and it should only be used as prescribed and under the su-

pervision of a healthcare professional. Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and impaired coordination. Our staff of professionals is dedicated to providing you and your family with the finest quality medical care. We look forward to serving your health care needs from well visits to managing health issues as they arise. To schedule a wellness exam, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474. We are located at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B, where walk-in patients are always welcome 7 days a week.

P.S. It is crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits of Ativan with a doctor before starting or stopping the medication.

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

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

Dr. Prakash

J. Doshi

Dr.

NAPL hosting talk by author of books on diners

North Arlington Public Library hosts a free presentation “New Jersey Diners: American Classics,” by Michael Ga-

briele Saturday, March 16, at 1 p.m. Gabriele, writer of five books on New Jersey history, will tell stories gathered from throughout the Diner Capital of the World.

NEWS BRIEFS

Diners and lunch wagons have been part of New Jersey life for 125 years. They are beloved meeting places that have shaped lives, families, careers.

Dr. Clarese Crenshaw

In Celebration of Women’s History Month we celebrate Kearny resident and volunteer, Dr. Clarese Crenshaw. Dr. Crenshaw recently graduated from Monmouth University with her Doctorate in Nursing.

She is a currently an Internal Medicine Nurse Practitioner an CentraState Hospital and Adjunct Professor at Monmouth University. In her spare time she can be found volunteering in several of Kearny’s community based organizations.

A lifelong New Jerseyan, Gabriele graduated from Montclair State University in 1975. He has worked as a journalist and freelance writer for more than 40 years. Two of his books, “A History of Diners in New Jersey” and “Stories from New Jersey Diners: Monuments to Community” will be available for sale after the presentation.

ISend us your organization’s news for publication in print and/or on the web

While we can’t always publish items in the print edition of The Observer, we can always ensure your news gets to the public online. Send information by email to editorial@theobserver.com at least two weeks in advance.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade images coming next week

mages from The United Irish Associations of West Hudson’s 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade will appear in the March 20, 2024, edition of The Observer. Also see www.theobserver.com later this week.

BIETTI’S CRYSTALLINE DYSTROPHY AND VISION LOSS

Bietti’s crystalline dystrophy (BCD) is a rare genetic disease that causes crystals of fatty acids to form on the cornea and iris, eventually leading to vision loss. Symptoms usually appear later in childhood, starting with blurry vision, peripheral vision loss, trouble seeing in low light, and difficulty seeing certain colors. It affects both eyes, but symptoms usually appear in one eye first. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for BCD and most people with the disease eventually lose their vision or have some blurred central vision. Low vision devices and rehabilitation therapy can help patients make the most of their vision. People of Asian descent with a family history of BCD are

at highest risk for inheriting the disease.

Your eye doctor can check for BCD during a comprehensive dilated eye exam. The exam is simple and painless — your doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate your pupil and then check for eye disease. To schedule an appointment, please call 201-8960096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To contact our optical shop, call 201-8960007. We accept most insurance. P.S. Bietti’s crystalline dystrophy is a genetic disease that can occur when both parents carry the affected gene. If one parent has the gene, their child will also carry the gene but will not inherit the disease.

www.delucavision.com

Pictured is her husband Retired Army Master Sergeant, David Crenshaw and their children, Kiera, Charli and Bradley.

Christine Ferrie Jablonski

Christine Ferrie Jablonski sadly died while skiing at Alta Ski Resort in Utah.

She was 53.

Born in Norwich, Connecticut, had lived in Kearny.

Visiting will be Sunday, March 17, at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, from 1 to 7 p.m. Mass will be celebrated Monday, March 18, at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny, at 10:30 a.m. Private cremation will follow and Christine’s remains will soon be entombed in Holy Cross Cemetery Mausoleum in North Arlington.

Christine was parishioner of St. Stephen’s Church where she was involved with the Hospitality Ministry, the Outreach Group, the food pantry and the Thanksgiving luncheon. She was a member of the Kearny Junior Woman’s Club and the Woman’s Club. She was also a member of Unit 305, Friends of Erin, Friends of the Library.

She was class agent for the College of The Holy Cross and was part of the Parent’s Spirituality Group at St. Peter’s Prep. Christine was also involved with Norwich Free Academy Alumni Council and was a former member of the College of The Holy Cross Crusader Good Time Marching band and was in the Hall of Fame.

She was assistant vice president for Afinity Partnerships at Elavon, Inc., of Knoxville, Tennessee.

Beloved wife of Superior Court Assignment Judge Jeffrey R. Jablonski and devoted mother of Nathaniel Healy and Eliot Healy Jablonski, she was

OBITUARIES

also the daughter of Ilda (nee Carvalho) and the late James F. Ferrie, sister of James A. Ferrie (his wife Jennifer), daughter in-law of Frank and Teddie (nee Gillespie) Jablonski. She was also the sister-in-law of Julie A. Hamon (her husband Jeffrey) and aunt of Cole and Read Hamon.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to one of the following … all precious to Christine — St. Stephen’s Adult and Youth Faith Formation, St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City or to Christine’s alma mater, the College of The Holy Cross.

Janette Lunney Faulk

Janette Lunney Faulk, of Harrison, NJ. A loving, caring, devout Catholic mother, grandmother and aunt entered into her eternal rest on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Janette was devoted to her children and grandchildren. She was an avid

Miracle Prayer

Dear Sacred Heart Of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favors, this time I ask you this special one favor. Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it in your own broken heart where our Father sees it, then in his merciful eyes it will become your favor, not mine.

M.S.

traveler, book enthusiast and voracious reader, gardener, bird watcher and “tough as nails” worker. She enjoyed spending time with her family watching movies, hiking in parks and visiting zoos and aquariums. She deeply enjoyed anything to do with nature. Her quiet strength and peaceful presence will be sorely missed by her family. She lived by her faith and trust in God’s Providence.

The funeral will be conducted from the Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison, NJ 07029 on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 10:15 a.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, Harrison at 11:00 a.m. Friends and relatives may visit the funeral home on Wednesday, March 13th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday morning after 9:45 a.m.

Per Janette’s wishes, she will have a closed casket. Her ashes

Miracle Prayer

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

M.F.

will be buried in Arlington Cemetery, Kearny at a later date.

Janette will be genuinely missed by her children, May, Jan, Eddie, Elaine and Harry as well as her numerous nieces, nephews and grandchildren. She has extended family throughout the world. She was predeceased by her daughter, Cathy and her husband, Harry. (2022)

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mulliganfh.com

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the St. Lawrence Seminary at www.stlawrenceseminary.org in

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

loving memory of Janette.

Eileen M. Lynch

Eileen M. Lynch (nee Shields) died March 9, 2024.

She was 79.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, March 13, at St. Cecilia Church, Kearny (Mass time will be updated soon) and burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Eileen worked for the Kearny Public Library before moving to

See OBITS, Page 14

Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.

the Jersey Shore, where she continued her library career at the Monmouth County Library in Colts-

neck. She graduated from St. Cecilia High School and currently is a member of St. Veronica Church in

Howell. She was also involved with the Friends of the Howell Library, Inc.

many nieces and nephews.

She was the beloved wife of Frank X. Lynch Jr. and loving mother of Frank Lynch (his wife Thea), Margaret Blair (her husband Dan) and Jim Lynch (his wife Lani). Sister of the late Rosemary Donahue, she is also survived by her grandchildren Bobby, Alex, Colin, Sean and Jillian.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Pick Your Paw Animal Rescue at pickyourpaw.org, or 450 Shrewsbury Plaza No. 129 Shrewsbury, N.J. 07702.

Robert MacMillan

Bob was a retired stationary engineer, having worked at NJIT in Newark. He was on the Kearny Planning Board for many years and was also an elected town councilman. He coached KURC football and taught Sunday School at Calvary Methodist Church. He was a former president of Local 2282 AFSMCE and was a safety officer at Otis Elevator.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.

John R. Tietjen

John Robert Tietjen III died March 4, 2024.

He was 66.

ceased 1990) in December 1954. She was active in the Franklin School PTA, West Hudson Hospital and with the senior citizens.

She is survived by sons, Kevin, George (Cheryl), Michael (Cindi), James and Keith (Katherine); grandchildren Jason, Ryan, Andrew, Amanda, Kathleen, Rileah, Katelyn and Megan; and great-grandson Colin.

Funeral services were at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Kearny.

The Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge.

Artur P. Coelho

Robert MacMillan died March 7, 2024.

He was 91.

Born in Hicksville, Long Island, he lived in Nutley before moving to Kearny many years ago.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. A service took place in Hillside Cemetery.

Artur Coelho died March 6, 2024.

John was born in Passaic and lived in Kearny and the Jersey Shore before moving to Whiting 13 years ago.

Visiting will be on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny from 3 until 7 p.m. A service will take place Friday, March 15, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover.

He was 66. Private cremation is being handled by the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. His ashes will be placed in the Holy Cross Cemetery Mausoleum in the near future.

Husband of the late Hazel (nee Rowlands), he was the loving father of Robert C. MacMillan (his wife Kathleen), Deborah McInerney (her late husband Kevin), Thomas R. MacMillan (his wife Diane) and the late Donald A. MacMillan. Brother of the late Elsie Harbach, Sandy MacMillan and Donald MacMillan, he is also survived by his brother-in-law David Rowlands and his wife Joyce. Loving grandfather of Jaclyn, Ryan (Goldie), Kelly, Raymond, Shaun, the late Michael and great-grandfather of Brennan. Bob also had

He was the son of the late John R. Tietjen II and Joan (nee Farina). He was the husband of Lori (nee Folo) and is the brother of Marc Tietjen (Susy), Joanne Tietjen, Richard Tietjen (Andrea) and KrisAnn Eglentowicz (Ronald) He is also survived by his nieces Natalie, Annaliese, Arianna, Ella and his nephew Marc.

Ellen McLaren

Ellen R. McLaren (nee Lynam) died at home Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024.

She was 89.

She was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, June 21, 1934, of parents Mary Lynam (O’Niell) and Christopher Lynam, and many cherished siblings.

She immigrated to Kearny in 1950 and wed George W. McLaren (de-

Artur was a retired supervisor from Dreher Leather and also owned A and J Floor Covering. He was the husband of Isabel (nee Almeida) and father of Jenny Coelho, Anthony Coelho and the late Nelson Coelho. Brother of Victoria Fernandes, Carlos Fernandes, Madalena Rocha, Bina Lima, Anibal Fernandes, Camilo Coelho, Manuel Coelho and the late Jose Coelho and Candida Soares. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the American Heart Association.

Nutley starting ‘Hometown Hero’ banner program

T

he Nutley Board of Commissioners, in partnership with the American Legion Post 70, have launched the Nutley Hometown Hero Banner Program.“Nutley has always taken great pride in its patriotism and recognition of our local veterans and service members. This spring the township will be joining the multitudes of municipalities across our nation to honor those who protect us and keep us safe by installing military street banners throughout the township,” Commissioner John Kelly said.

Each banner will honor a veteran or active-duty service member by displaying their photo, branch of service and military service information. Applications and information are available by visiting form. jotform.com/240666779838073.

All applications are due by March 28.

If your service member is no longer in the military, applicants must provide a copy of their discharge papers.

Both North Arlington and Lyndhurst have already implemented a similar program.

NEW

Kearny - $800,000

of the home.

NEW LISTING!

Kearny$310,000

1 Fam.House in need of total rehabilitation.

Please remember to recycle this newspaper

Kearny - $645,411

2 Fam. - Welcome to this one of a kind build. 5 Large bedrooms - EIK’s- 2 Full baths- Part Fin basement- fenced in yard and one car garage.

Newark - $996,838 - This luxurious, soon-to-be-constructed colonial boasts 5 beds and 5 1/2 baths, offering a multitude of amenities. Located in the sought-after Forest Hill neighborhood, it provides convenient access to shopping, schools, restaurants, and transportation options to NYC via bus and train. The expansive 1st floor showcases an open floor plan, with a generously-sized kitchen featuring a walk-in pantry, SS appliances, and a functional island that overlooks the bright and inviting dine/room, fam/room, and lounge area. Additionally, the 1st floor includes an ensuite flex/bed with a f/bath, as well as an extra 1/2 bath. Enjoy relaxing evenings on the rear deck that offers views of the backyard. The 2nd floor boasts 2 primary beds with full baths and walk-in clsts, along with two addl beds and another full bath. The 3rd floor of the home features an oversized game room, flex/bed, and a full bath. The unfinished basement presents further opportunities for customization and addl living space.

NEW LISTING! Kearny$3,200 WHOLE HOUSE FOR RENT! - 3 Bdrms, 1,5 Baths, modern EIK, LR, DR, Full part finished Bsmnt, Yard, parking for up to 4 cars. NEW RENTAL! Kearny - $2,500 1st Floor Apt. - 3 Bdrms, Fully Renovated, modern, bright, central air, dark hardwood floors, large closets. Located in a beautiful 2 family house. NEW RENTAL! JUST SOLD!

Newark$2,500

2nd Floor Apt.2 bdrms - 2 full bths, Luxury New Brand new apartments, central air, hardwood flrs, laundry in unit, stainless steel appliances.

NEW RENTAL!

Newark$2,500

2nd Floor Apt.2 bdrms - 2 full bths, Luxury New Brand new apartments, central air, hardwood flrs, laundry in unit, stainless steel appliances.

BELLEVILLE Studio

$1400 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included. No Pets/Smoking Available Now (973)7591086 43W03

HARRISON 2nd floor. 3 Br, LR,DR & 2 Bath’s. $2250 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking Available April 1st (973)4186621 44W03

HARRISON 5 room apartment. $2000 + 1.5 months security. No Pets/Smoking Walking distance to PATH Available Now (862)230-6201

45W03

HARRISON Studio

Newly

KEARNY Newly renovated.1st floor, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, LR, kitchen. No Pets. No laundry hook up. Dishwasher, Stove, Refrigerator. One parking space. $2400 + 1 ½ mth security. Utilities separate. Electricity included Available April 1st.(201)424-1188 43W03

KEARNY 1 BR apt. HT/ HW included also Hardwood floors , $1,450+ 1 month security. No pets/smoking. Available now. For more Info Call 201-306-2994 43W03

KEARNY First floor. 2 BR. LR. EIK. Near TRANS/School and shopping. $2000 + 1 months security. Utilities not included. No Pets/Smoking. Avail Now. (347)735-3299 43W03

KEARNY

One bedroom apartment, 3 rooms in Kearny. First 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 45W03

KEARNY Studio apartment on Quincy Ave in Kearny. Rent $1700/ month. Lovely, newly-refinished hardwood floors. Coin-operated washer and dryer in basement. Landlord pays for hot water, tenant pays for heat and electricity. Tenant will need to provide own refrigerator. On-street parking. Call 862-5056877 for more information or to schedule a showing 43W03

KEARNY

Elevated building 1 BR APT. HT/HW included. $1,500+ 1.5 Months Security See Super, 654 Elm St, Kearny. Laundry facility on premises Call Sofia after 3pm (201)998-3516 for appointment. 45W03

KEARNY

N.

KEARNY 1 BR APT. HT/HW included. $1,575 + 1.5 Months security. See Super 6 Woodland Ave. Apt. 1 (201)892-8035 for appointment.

KEARNY Newly renovated 2nd floor, near Hickory Park 2 large BR’s, LR, DR, Kitchen w/ Microwave, stove & refrigerator. Washer/Dryer in apartment, plenty of closet space $2250 + 1 months security 1 Year lease Responsible for all Utilities except H/ HW. No Pets/Smoking

Now Christine (201)892-6162 or Amanda (973)803-7955

N.ARLINGTON New 2 BR Apartment w/updated kitchen Hardwood floors throughout. Rent: $1950 Security: 1.5 months rent Utilities are separate No Pets No Smoking Credit/Background Check required Contact: (201)6933480 43W03

N.ARLINGTON 1 bedroom studio w/ full granite kitchen Small private entrance building on Ridge Road $1450 all utilities included 1st floor/ Available March 1st Credit check required Call owner (973)800-8582

43W03

Call for details: (201) 538-1319 45W03

KEARNY

Office or store for rent

1,380 sq. ft. with extra storage 600 sq. ft. $3,200 includes utilities. Office or store for rent 750 sq. ft. $2,200 with utilities included Located on Kearny Ave Call for further information (201)725-0123

GARAGE & PARKING SPACE FOR RENT

HARRSION

Single car garage for rent & parking spaces for vans, trucks and cars. Grand Ave available now (862)571-4823 44W03

KEARNY

Garage/storage

1520 sq. ft. $1,520 Please contact (201)725-0123

RN/Med-Tech/Med-Asst Wanted Adult Medical Day Care (Belleville)

Part Time/Full Time for adult medical daycare in Essex County needed. Creole speaking a must. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM and 4 PM. Call (973) 751-6000 45W03

OutReach Coordinator/ Marketer WANTED Adult Medical Day Care (Belleville) Part Time/Full Time for Adult Medical Day Care in Essex County needed. Spanish Speaking a Plus Competitive Salary/Commission Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM and 4 PM. Call (973) 751-6000 45W03

Part Time/Full Time ACTIVITY AIDE. Spanish speaking a MUST. Male/Female. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM to 4 PM Only. Call 973-751-6000 or Fax resume to 973-751-1190. 518 Washington Ave., Belleville ,NJ 43W03

FULL TIME experienced landscaper/ driver needed. With valid driver’s license call (201)998-1262 43W03

Experienced Hairdresser needed. Part time. Kearny Location (201)674-3995 43W03

Local pre-school looking for full time supervisor & teacher assistant. inquire within (201)246-7733 44W03

CARS FOR SALE

2007 Grey Toyota corolla Grey/Black interior. Runs great and well maintained $4800 170,000 Call Larry (201)655-9839 45WO3

Experienced Hairdresser wanted with a clientele for a salon in Harrison NJ Call 973-482-6080 or 973-462-4773 for more information

45W03

Current Warehouse and Forklift experience. Valid Driver’s Lic NECESSARY Hours 9-3 but can vary, Must be able to read and write English to pull orders. Good opportunity for early retiree. Located in Lyndhurst. Call 201-939-0049 and email resume to JKearney@PJKSales.com

PERSONALS

Independent Brazilian woman, looking for friendship with a gentlemen 50s - 60s year old. I love to spend time with people with good energy, listen to music & dancing. Call or text (201)702-0747 43W03

Basslines Sportfishing

Charters

Trips Book Now! Striped Bass, Tuna & Mahi Mahi

USCG Contact Captain Willy Abbott (201)-906-6847

Licensed & insured

https://basslinessportfishing. com/

45W07

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

45W03

BURKE

Continued from Page 1

Belleville High School baseball team, the Belleville Police Department and the Shafter Branch Library. More recently, she spearheaded the ceremonial renaming of Lake Street to honor former Councilman and Deputy Mayor Angelo Risoli.

“If you look beyond the myriad honors and awards, you’ll see that it all stemmed from her love of Belleville and her love of her neighbors,” Melham said.

Melham, who didn’t always see eye to eye with the late councilwoman, was extremely gracious after he received word of her death.

“Councilwoman Strumolo-Burke dedicated decades

of service to our community, leaving an indelible mark on the First Ward of Belleville, particularly in Silver Lake. Her leadership roles within the Silver Lake Civic Association, her commitment as a Democrat county committee leader and her tenure as a Councilwoman made her a fixture within our township,” the mayor said.

“Though we knew Council-

woman Strumolo-Burke was facing health challenges in recent months, her absence from our last council meeting seemed more noticeable. Knowing she was likely watching the live stream, we took some time to send her well wishes. In recent days, Marie and her family remained in our thoughts and prayers. A trailblazer in many respects, it seems almost fit-

ting that we bid her farewell on International Women’s Day.

“In honor of her memory, I have asked the township manager to drape mourning bunting at all municipal buildings and lower the flag at Town Hall to half-staff as a symbol of our collective mourning. Let us continue to hold Marie’s family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time … rest in peace, Councilwoman.”

NEWS BRIEFS

NA Knights hosting ‘Passion of Christ’ lecture

The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus invite the community to a Lenten-time lecture on the Passion of Christ by Daniel P. Quinn at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 20, at the Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington.

Daniel Quinn, a noted author, playwright and award-winning film producer, was involved with the “Oberammergau,” a Passion play that ran for many years in Union City at the Park Theater.

Refreshments will be served.

St. Cecilia HS class of ’64 planning 60th reunion

Members of the St. Cecilia High School class of 1964 are planning a luncheon to celebrate the 60th reunion on Thursday, Sept. 19, at Mamma Victoria, Nutley, from noon to 4 p.m.

For more information or to make a reservation to attend, contact Kathy (McCourt) Jackes at kathyjackes@yahoo.com or Ann Pettigrew at AnnP341@ verizon.net.

DOLAN

Continued from Page 1

a part of a book-discussion club that gets together once monthly at the home of one of the members. The person who hosts also cooks.

And we’re told that’s a very popular part of club membership, especially when Jo-Ann does the cooking.

Now, that same woman, who has spent her life being of service to the Kearny community, recently turned 85. And when Kelley said he wanted to honor his friend, his suggestion was a no-brainer.

Yours truly loves getting to spend time with her. Occasionally, she pops by The Observer’s office on Seeley Avenue and when she does, joy immediately overtakes me. Sometimes, it’s brief. Often, it’s not brief at all. We’ve talked about everything from Charlie, to Jim Hague, to books (especially ones she wants me to read, knowing I likely won’t) to the-late former Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island, Vincent Albert “Buddy” Cianci.

But we also asked all members of the club to offer words about Jo-Ann. Everyone responded.

And, well, again no surprise here, everyone loves Jo-Ann.

“Asking me to pick one statement or quote about her is just as hard and stressful as picking out the next book,” Kristina Digravina says. “Kind, considerate, understanding, patient, loving and authentic are some of the things that come to mind when asked to list the qualities of a good person. Jo-Ann is a good person.”

Next, Ashleigh Ford chimed in.

“Mrs. Dolan is the heart and soul of our book club,” Ford says. “She always kicks it off with an in-depth summary of the book that we read that

month. She brings a unique viewpoint to each discussion that gets the conversation going. Our book club is the highlight of my month.”

Next, it’s the aforementioned Kelley’s wife, Elizabeth.

“Jo-Ann is a true inspiration to me; she is the kind of person that everyone should aspire to be,” Elizabeth Kelley says. “She’s kind and considerate, smart and funny, an active and giving member of her community. Her mind is as sharp as ever and her heart is made of gold. She would give you the shirt off her back and the (very fashionable) hat off her head to boot. To know Jo-Ann is to love her ... and I

do ... a lot.”

Next, we return to Jonathan Kelley.

“I only met Jo-Ann several years ago through my wife, and in that time, I have regarded this book club as a type of family and Jo-Ann sits as its matriarch,” Jonathan Kelley says. “She provides warmth, friendship, erudite conversation, and my discussions with her give me something to look forward to once a month other than a new book and a drink.”

And then there’s Jane Amadeo.

“Mrs. Dolan is not only a true intellect, but she is a wonderful friend,” Amadeo says. “She always brings a

unique perspective to each of our books, finding the good in every story. She even used the recipes from one book to make desserts, which truly made the book come to life and elevated the experience. I couldn’t imagine having this book club, or living life, without her.”

Next, it’s Colleen Rusek’s turn.

“The world would be a better place if everyone had

a Jo-Ann in their life,” Rusek says. “She is always there to talk and listen and on the days you might not feel like talking, she somehow knows and sends you a card in the mail. Through her simple, thoughtful acts, Jo-Ann makes you feel like you matter.”

Lastly from the club, it’s Amalia Digravina.

“When I first started book club, I didn’t know how it would work out,” Digravina says.

“Now it has become the highlight of our month with wonderful company, food, conversation and laughs. Jo-Ann will always add a little touch of something special relating to the book. Our group is very unique and offers different age and background perspectives. We are blessed with her sage advice and willingness to help others. That Jo-Ann Dolan is one in a million.”

We couldn’t possibly agree more. One in a million, she is, indeed. Happy 85th birthday, Jo-Ann Dolan. Happy reading. And may there be many, many more birthdays to come.

Contributed photo

Dolan, center at the head of the table, is seen here with her fellow club members after a recent meeting that also dubbed as a celebration of her 85th birthday.