Issuu

Wednesday, 23 February 2022

www.TheObserver.com

Vol. CXXXIV, No. 42

ON THE INSIDE KPD: Fabula investigation leads to ID thief being caught stealing pal’s credentials SEE PAGE 8

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

REST EASY ERNIE Veteran Harrison Police sergeant who lost cancer battle remembered as a caring & loving soul By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

E Sgt. Ernesto ‘Ernie’ Hernandez is seen here when he was promoted to sergeant. He’s with his wife, Jennifer, and his daughter, Graciella.

rnesto “Ernie” Hernandez loved being a cop. But perhaps it was never more evident than it was on the day he was laid to rest just how much he was loved back, as scores of police officers, from near and far, took part in his funeral throughout West Hudson. They came from everywhere to pay respects to the man who fought long and hard to beat cancer. Four years ago, he took out colon

cancer. But then in December 2021, he found out he had Stage 4 pancreatic/liver cancer, a nauseating way to spend Christmas. He succumbed to the disease Feb. 10, 2022, aged 51, after trying his darndest to beat it, yet again. At his funeral, many cops rode motorcycles — and though it’s hardly rare to see police officers on bikes at funerals, especially for fallen officers, it was especially poignant for Hernandez, as he See ERNIE, Page 18

Harrison gives thumbs-up to two potential pot shops By Ron Leir

For The Observer

t some point soon, Harrison residents could be lining up to buy marijuana at a shop along the main drag. Two companies have applied to the town to set up shop as prospective “adult personal use” cannabis retailers and, on Feb. 15, both received

Catch

official endorsements from the town governing body. Whether either – or both – become a reality depends, ultimately, on state bureaucrats. Cookies Harrison LLC and Green Origins Solution LLC have each secured municipal zoning approval and a resolution of support from the mayor and Town Council – both of

which are pre-conditions that must be met before their applications can be passed on to the N.J. Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) for consideration. Mayor James A. Fife said each applicant submitted a $10,000 filing fee mandated by the town for researching whether the applicant’s plans comply with state and local require-

The Observer LIVE!

MONDAYS AT 8 PM @ YOUTUBE.THEOBSERVER.COM

ments for operating as a marijuana sales shop. A town ordinance passed in August 2021 calls for cannabis Class 5 retailers to: n Confine their operations to Harrison’s waterfront redevelopment area and neighborhood commercial zone. n Provide an amount of off-street See POT, Page 15

2 Over ‘unpaid’ bill, PSE&G cuts Harvey Field power The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

By Ron Leir For The Observer

Mayor Alberto G. Santos took this selfie at Harvey Field, and it’s a good thing he did it in the daytime — otherwise, there would not have been lights at all.

o one paid the electric bill, so now the lights are out. Harvey Field, the Kearny recreation site in the southeast section of town that was battered by Hurricane Ida in September 2021, is in the eye of a new storm. This time, though, it’s a furor over an unpaid bill for electrical power furnished to the field house at the Schuyler Avenue play area that’s prompted PSE&G to disconnect the service. The bill in question is for $77,429.44 but town officials say they’re at a loss to explain the time period for which Kearny is being assessed – which isn’t referenced in the bill – or anything else associated with it. All they know is that the bill is dated April 28, 2021, and is addressed to “occupant,” in care of 264 Schuyler Ave. Field House, Kearny, N.J.

Mayor Alberto G. Santos said the mailing containing the request for payment “was delivered to Town Hall about three months ago. The amount is nonsensical. We asked for an accounting from PSE&G. They responded with a shutoff of electricity at the

SPRING 2022 ART CLASSES

field house. “I know electricity bills are high, but this is literally off the charts,” he said. Ralph Cattafi, municipal parks and recreation director, said his understanding is that the bill covers a multi-year period but advised checking

CL A Re g

SS F EE $6 5

istra

tion F ee $15

MARCH 7 - APRIL 14

CLASSES East Newark Recreation Center 44 Central Avenue, East Newark (behind Tops Diner) MONDAY 4:00 pm ADVENTURES IN ART (ages 10 - 13) 5:00 pm ADVENTURES IN ART (age 6 - 9) 6:00 pm ADVENTURES IN DANCE (age 6 - 9) TUESDAY 4:30 pm COMIC & MANGA ART (age 10 - 13) NEW! WEDNESDAY 4:30 pm ADVENTURES IN THEATER (ages 6 - 9) 5:30 pm ADVENTURES IN THEATER (age 10 - 13)

Hartung Recreation Center 925 Passaic Avenue, Kearny (corner of Belleville Turnpike)

WEDNESDAY 4:30 pm COMIC & MANGA ART (age 14 - 18) NEW! THURSDAY 4:00 pm ELEMENTS OF PHOTOGRAPHY (6th - 8th grade) NEW! 5:30 pm CREATIVE DIGITAL STORYTELLING (6th - 8th grade) NEW!

In-Person Registration Saturday, February 26 10:00 am - 2:00 pm East Newark Recreation Center

This program is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a division of the Department of State, and administered by the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, Thomas A. DeGise, Hudson County Executive & the Hudson County Board of County Commissioners.

further with town Finance Director Shuaib Firozvi. According to Firozvi, prior to April 21, 2021, “we weren’t getting a bill” from the utility for servicing the field house but he didn’t know for how long that was the case. Further complicating matters, he said, is the fact that the town has several accounts with PSE&G for providing service to various municipal facilities, but the account number referenced for field house service in last April’s bill “wasn’t listed on any of our existing PSE&G accounts which makes it surprising that we didn’t get to the point where we were shut off until recently.” One of the other utility accounts is for the field lights which, Santos said, “are separately billed and paid.” Neither Santos nor Firozvi could say how much the town pays to light the field. Firozvi was unable to readily furnish figures for average monthly billings for electrical service to the field house. On Feb. 8, the Kearny governing body authorized filing a complaint against PSE&G with the state Board of Public Utilities for the past due bill and the service shutoff “despite the request by the town for an accounting.” Utility spokeswoman Rebecca Mazzarella said the dispute remains “under investigation” by PSE&G and that the utility has talked

with town representatives about the situation. Beyond that, she said she had no further details. Harvey Field, which is used for baseball and soccer from spring to fall, was rendered unusable by Ida last fall after it was inundated by a massive deluge of water and debris that, officials said, caused the field’s turf section to ripple and wrecked the natural grass portion. Earlier this month, a contractor hired by the town tore up the turf on the front section of the field in preparation for installing a new artificial surface, Santos said. “We are using a statelicensed vendor so the new turf has been ordered and will be installed as soon as it’s delivered.” “For the back (grass) field,” he said, “we are designing the field to include significant underground storm water retention to mitigate flooding in the area. We will have to go out to bid on the back field. We expect that to happen in March or April 2022.” In September 2019, Harvey Field was in the spotlight when the town evacuated more than 100 youngsters playing soccer due to noxious hydrogen sulfide fumes spreading from the nearby Keegan landfill. The landfill, which for years was a licensed depository for construction debris, is in the process of being cleaned and is to be turned over to Kearny under a December 2019 agreement between the N.J. Sports & Exposition Authority (NJSEA), which owns the dump site, and the town. Asked about the cleanup’s status, Santos said: “We’re still waiting on the DEP (N.J. Department of Environmental Protection) for final approval of the surface impermeable liner. The contouring is substantially completed and the gas collection system is fully operational. We will be working with the NJSEA this year to develop portions of the landfill as passive recreation sites and to better provide access to the Kearny Marsh.”

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Belleville rekindles sistercity status with Forino, Italy By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

elleville and the Italian town of 5,376 residents (see panorama) about 500 miles south of Rome have re-established sister-city ties. The resolution to adopt Forino as a sister city was approved at the Feb. 8 Township Council meeting. Forging ties with Forino can create “great benefits to all residents from the cultural exchange with other municipalities and towns from around the world,” the resolution states. Forino, a quaint town on the southwestern coast of Italy, located on a hillside

between Salerno and Avellino and is known for its quiet, sleepy streets and restaurants serving up authentic regional cuisine. At more than 12 squaremiles, the town in Italy’s Avellino province is steeped in centuries of history. In fact, the town was founded in pre-Roman times. Several structures from the medieval period have survived, including the Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of the Rosary, the Church of St. Stephen and the Church of the Annuziata — which features a 15th-century layout with an artistic, wooden choir. Former Belleville Mayor Jerry Digori originally estab-

Wikipedia image

lished a relationship with Forino, seeking to build a bridge with the town some 4,400 miles away and the homeland that has sent so many of its sons and daughters to Belleville over the generations. “We chose Forino as our sister city because we should

always be on a quest to widen our views of the world and seek greater cultural awareness,” Mayor Michael Melham said. “Over the years, we have warmly welcomed Forino citizens to live here and visit here.” Melham looks forward to

building a relationship with Forino Mayor Antonio Olivieri, as the sister cities program evolves. The Township Council is also planning to formally create a sister city connection with a municipality in Ecuador, Melham said.

YOUTUBE.THEOBSERVER.COM

Pet Direct ry Bone Appétit Barkery PET SALON & BAKERY Certified Professional Dog & Cat Grooming

169 Midland Ave. • Kearny, NJ • (201) 955-2306 boneappetite@verizon.net

TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CALL 201-991-1600.

Call Today at:

201.991.0067

432 Ridge Road | North Arlington, NJ | www.RipostaLaw.com

IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Opinion.................................................................................................Page 6 Sports..................................................................................................Page 9 Business Directory........................................................................Page 12

Health & Wellness Directory...............................................................Page 11 Obituaries..........................................................................................Page 13 Classifieds ��Pages 16-17

4 Applause Radio Show is back & stronger than ever The Observer | www.theobserver.com

By JoAnn Barton

Special to The Observer

t may seem like Applause Radio Show disappeared for a while, but we are always working behind the scenes to bring the best to our listeners. After a busy January, I had a wonderful evening Feb. 2, seeing Earth, Wind and Fire (EWF). I have seen them at larger venues and they bring everything for their ensemble, including the kitchen sink. Seeing them in a smaller venue at NJPAC was better than the prior show I saw. The smaller stage has less equipment and is brought in

by the artists. Philip Bailey still sounds like he did when he first began recording alongside the other only two original members of the band, Verdine White and Ralph Johnson. The music was great and what you would expect to hear from EWF. However, with the perfect sound the new excitement is brought by Philip Bailey Jr. on percussion and his look alike from the Oranges in NJ B. David Whitworth are the entertainment. They are young and are perfectly choreographed and bring life to the performance. There was not a moment where they stood still. The rest

ARLINGTON TAX

1985 - Celebrating our 37th Anniversary - 2022 INCOME TAX & FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS & SMALL BUSINESSES

Brianna Antonelli EA, MST

Bernadette Antonelli EA, ATA, ATP

• Member of the National Society of Accountants • The National Society of Tax Professionals • The NJ and National Society of Enrolled Agents • Enrolled to practice before the IRS

WE WELCOME NEW CLIENTS!

BAntonelli@ArlingtonTax.com • www.arlingtontax.com

764 Kearny Avenue • Kearny

201-991-8888

Vista serVices Group, LLc • Income Tax • Personal • Business Please come in for a FREE review of your prior return and projection of the new tax law.

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE! Jose Fernandez | Sandra Castro

201-340-4376 290 Stuyvesant Ave • Lyndhurst, NJ

of the band joined in with the dance steps but nothing like the virility of these younger men. All in all, another great show by EWF. It does not appear that they will be slowing down anytime soon. Back to ARS, we had guests who brought joy to me especially. Lead singer from Missing Persons Dale Bozzio joined us and it was an absolute thrill. I performed their hit “Words” in an old cover band back in the day. It was a treat to speak with her and I cannot wait to read her new autobiography, “Life is So Strange: Missing Persons, Frank Zappa and Prince.” The book is being hailed as a

Nicholas J. Coco Certified Public Accountant “Serving financial needs of small business and individuals since 1998”

Tax Preparation • Financial Planning Budgeting • Bookkeeping

752 Kearny Ave., Kearny NJ (Corner of Stuyvesant Ave.)

Office: 201-955-3100 Fax: 201-955-3339 Email: ncoco@bellatlantic.net

Deonysios Kalevas CPA, P.C.

Income Tax Preparation

• Personal • Corporate • Reliable & Professional Service 230 Belleville Tpke. Kearny, N.J. Ph: 201-991-8470 Ask for Dennis

Fax 201-991-8471

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

“kiss and tell,” weaving stories from her entire life from her childhood, to being a Playboy Bunny, to working with Zappa and Prince. She also has included never seen photos from her personal archive, lyric sheets, poetry and other memorabilia from her life. One of the coolest things when you purchase this 300+ full color hard cover book, you also get a 7” recut version of “Destination Unknown,” and a remix of “Hopscotch.” Find it by visiting www.facebook. com/dalebozzio. Staying on the topic of music, we also welcomed original and forming member of the band Heart, guitarist, Steve Fossen. Fossen has been out on the road performing with his band Heart by Heart. HBH are a group along with Fossen and his wife Somar Macek singing lead vocals and original drummer Michael Derosier. They perform all classic Heart songs Fossen/Derosier were a part of. The music is just that, the music; and it is on point. Any band can replay the music, but with Fossen and Derosier bringing its original crispness, makes it even more special. But Somar Macek’s vocals are the clone of Ann Wilson. She is amazing. You would swear you were hearing Wilson sing. Keep in mind that HBH is not a cover or tribute band to Heart. They’re the Heart of Heart and since Macek and Fossen are married it’s enlightening. Check them out at www.heartbyheart.com for tour dates. One of my favorite TV shows came into play as well, as we welcomed actor/singer/ producer Glenn Scarpelli from the original hit sitcom “One Day at a Time.” This was his most recognizable role, but he is much more than Alex who lived with Ann, Barbara and Julie Romano on the show. Knowing he wanted to be an entertainer at 5, his mom would finally go along with his dream when he turned 9, and he landed a role in “Golda” on Broadway along with one of my favorite actresses Ann Bancroft. Then he worked with Al Pacino in “Arthur” on Broadway. His fame skyrocketed on “One Day at a Time” and as the

final season approached, he moved on to “Jennifer Slept Here,” starring Ann Jillian. He even released an album in 1983 and I surprised him by playing his song “Don’t Mess Up a Good Thing.” Taking a break from acting and going on a walkabout to find himself after losing the love of his life, Sedona, Arizona, called his name. He now resides in Sedona and as I have been told by my sister who is also an Arizonian, that if there is a heaven on earth, it is Sedona. When I saw it for myself, I definitely agree. Scarpelli found himself and his happiness in Arizona. Some may say the true meaning of their lives. While there, he created the Sedona Now Network, a network dedicated to the beauty visitors may find while. See www.sedonanow. com. We had a great, friendly, and fun conversation. I loved when he introduced me to his partner Johnny Ricci who is a producer of game shows. The three of us had a great time. But just when you thought Scarpelli was already happy in Sedona, he told me how he met his partner while filming for the infamous Hollywood Museum’s 75th anniversary to game show version of “The Hollywood Squares.” Ricci produced it and Scarpelli was one of the celebrities who appeared on the Hollywood Museum’s version of Squares. Scarpelli says most were there for “Hollywood Squares,” but for him it was the Love Connection. The show is a celebration of the 75th anniversary of game shows and due to the pandemic, they created an innovative way to bring it to you. Five shows were produced, all for charity. All had some of our favorite celebrities grew up watching from sitcoms or game shows, 47 in total. Each show costs $10 and may be purchased at www.stellartickets.com/thehollywood-museum/events/ the-hollywood-museumsquares-all-star-benefit-series. To hear the full these conversations, visit www. applauseradioshow.com or www.iheartradio/ applauseradioshow.com.

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Paying honor to anti-slavery Justice Hornblower

Nutley PD: Rise in car thefts continue and many instances are quite avioidable By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

utley Police Director Alphonse Petracco and Chief Thomas Strumolo are advising Nutley residents that stolen cars are on the rise throughout New Jersey and most of the time, the thefts are made easy by owners who leave cars unlocked and/or with keys or fobs in the vehicles. Strumolo said 90% of vehicles stolen were idling while the owner entered a store or the key fob remained inside unlocked vehicles. He said this is in line with county and statewide statistics that indicate Nutley is not the only town noticing a spike in thefts. He said in addition to the stolen vehicles, “we also have an increase in thefts from motor vehicles. This is when a thief enters a vehicle to steal something from inside. There

is no doubt that taking loose change, ear buds, iPods and laptops are consolation prizes if the vehicle does not start.” He said each of these thefts from motor vehicles could easily be auto thefts and all the crimes have a similar theme — car doors were left unlocked. “Over the past two years, we have only a handful of vehicles that were forcefully entered; most were left unlocked,” the chief said. Petracco said it is tiring to remind residents to lock their doors; however, this may be the only way to slow these criminals. “I empathize with the residents who have lived here for 30 years and recall a time when you could leave your doors open. Unfortunately there are thieves that prey on those who forget to lock up,” he said.

POLICE BEAT

The Observer’s office is open Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. However, our office remains closed to the public. Please call (201) 991-1600.

In commemoration of Black History Month, the Belleville Historical Society is restoring the monument of New Jersey Supreme Court Chief Justice Joseph Hornblower at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Newark. Hornblower was from Belleville and in 1836 ruled the Fugitive Slave Act, a federal law which required runaway slaves be returned to their owners, violated the New Jersey Constitution. Hornblower opposed slavery at a time when most in New Jersey favored it. In March 1865, Jersey voted against ratifying the 13th Amendment, which outlawed slavery. New Jersey was the last northern state to free slaves. Even after the last slaves had been freed in the South, on June 19, 1865 (Juneteenth), slavery continued in New Jersey until it finally ended in December 1865 when two thirds of the other states ratified the 13th Amendment.

WWW. THEOBSERVER. COM

233 Kearny Ave., Kearny

201-997-2360

Michael Symeonides

Since 1965, service has been the key to our success! Quality Coverage at Competitive Rates! Auto - Home - Business - Life Let us show you how to save! www.sasinsurance.com • Se Habla Espanol • Nos Falamos Portuguese

Harrison Plaza • 442 Bergen Street • Harrison, NJ 07029

Ristorante & Pizzeria

Open 7 Days • Catering Available

OFFERING DINE-IN / CURBSIDE / DELIVERY Wine • Beer • Cocktails

Tel: 973.484.5770 • Fax: 973.484.2864

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Opinion & Viewpoints EDITORIAL

Reality check: Where we live, car doors must be locked

his is the next in a series of editorials — frankly, we’ve lost track of specifically how many there have been — designed to remind resident of the importance of locking car doors and not keeping the keys or fobs in them overnight or when you run into the store for 30 seconds. This time, the warning comes from the Nutley Police Department. We’ve seen them from all the police departments we cover. And, without much doubt, we are certain this will not be the final one we get. We’ve asked countless police brass and local leaders why these crimes keep on happening and the answers are becoming universal. First, residents are having a tough time accepting they live in a town where cars are stolen, brazenly, right off of people’s driveways. Next, criminals are well aware of this. The Nutley PD estimated 90% of all vehicles stolen in that township were of cars left running (I’m just running into the store for one thing) or where keys were just sitting there, with unlocked doors, inviting criminals in, making their jobs more simple than anything you could imagine. Think of this for a second. Let’s say you own a laptop. It’s valued at $1,200. You get home, put it on the roof of your car, grab a few other items — and then head inside the house. But then you realize you left the laptop on top of the car. Not one person reading this editorial says, “Eh, I will grab it tomorrow.” No, you head right outside and bring the thing inside immediately. So how or why is it people don’t do the same with keys or fobs that allow something worth considerably more than a laptop to be taken without any assistance? The reality is that though we are generally safe in this area, we live in a place where cars are stolen. It is certainly not because more criminals live here. Instead, it’s because too many can’t accept the reality — and that reality is cars are easy to take here. Residents just make it too easy. So, please. Help the police. Help you neighbors. Accept the new reality. Start locking your cars and don’t leave them running, unattended, even for 30 seconds.

In loving memory of Jerry Tolve LETTER TO THE EDITOR

To the Editor: We first met Jerry Tolve on a random Tuesday night, seven years ago, at Lassoni Ristorante in North Arlington. Giuseppe (Lassoni) invited us to come see Jerry sing for the first time. My husband and I went with a few of our friends for dinner and arrived while Jerry was setting up. We were just doing our thing not really paying attention until that velvet voice came crooning over the mic. We thought, “This guy is fantastic!” And the rest is history. From then on, for the next five years, Tuesday nights with Jerry became “Dance Night” at Lassoni. Each week, the crowd got bigger and bigger and there was rarely a Tuesday night we missed. We always had a huge table for 10 right next to Jerry and always had more friends showing up throughout the night, so that we were squeezing more chairs in. After the dinner crowd would dwindle, we would move the tables and make a bigger dance floor. It got to the point Jerry was staying until midnight because we were having such a ball singing along and dancing. He would sing all of our favorites and while he was taking a break, he would program all our favorite

dance songs so we could keep dancing. Oh, the Tuesday night shenanigans that were had by all! If you were there, you know what I’m talking about. We became great friends with Jerry and he was a big part of so many of our events, including my husband’s 50th birthday party, our kids’ birthday dinners, anniversary and engagement celebrations and so many memorable friend-dinners at Lassoni. He even MC’d a hilarious dance competition night between my husband and me and a few of our good friends. He was the MC and judge for the coveted award of the “Left Footed Losers.” We laughed all night because our “rival couple” dressed up like contestants on “Dancing With the Stars.” We made so many happy memories with Jerry always at the helm. He never forgot to play my husband’s favorite song “Lonely Teardrops” and always sang a song for me he knew reminded me of my mother. When he found out our

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.

wedding song, he never failed to sneak it in so we could dance to it. You can hear him singing in the background of every video clip and see him in almost every pic. He would sit and hang out with us in between sets and really became a special person in our lives. We were saddened when he was diagnosed with ALS, but boy, did he teach us all a lesson in grace and dignity. He still always had a smile on his face and his faith was unwavering. He took every hurdle and kept moving forward, even as his situation was becoming more and more challenging. Even though we didn’t see him as much anymore, I had the pleasure of speaking to him a few times as he said it was difficult for him to text. He was cheerful and optimistic and always grateful. I told him how special he was to all of us and that we missed our Tuesday night shenanigans at Lassoni. They truly were the best of times and he agreed. Jerry was always a gentlemen and a wonderful human. He will be sorely missed and we are all better for having known him. Love and prayers to the Tolve Family. Angela and Joe Muriale North Arlington

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

Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising

Kevin A. Canessa Jr. Michelle Rybeck Jim Hague kc@theobserver.com advertising@theobserver.com ogsmar@aol.com Editor/Broadcaster Graphic Artist/Real Estate Sports Writer

Newspaper Deadlines

Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager Kimberley Pezzolla kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sales/Classifieds

The Observer on Social Media

n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday

facebook.theobserver.com

n Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday

twitter.theobserver.com

n Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday n Help Wanted: noon, Monday — all ads must be

sent to classified@theobserver.com.

instagram.theobserver.com youtube.theobserver.com

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

LPD: Bronx man arrested yet again By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

erhaps Miguel Arias, 36, would be better served staying in the Bronx and not visiting Lyndhurst? Why, you ask? Well, for the second time in 11 days,

Arias finds himself in hot water with the Lyndhurst Police Department, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri told The Observer. According to Auteri: Last week, Feb. 15 to be precise, officers observed a van being operated without a front plate. Further investigation revealed the rear tag

Totowa man’s visit isn’t so peaceful: Lyndhurst PD By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

51-year-old Totowa man was sent to hospital for treatment following his arrest by the Lyndhurst Police Department last week, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri said. According to Auteri: The Lyndhurst PD, on Feb. 18 at around 8 p.m., responded to reports of a drunken driver traveling south on Ridge Road near Kingsland Avenue. Once in the area, Officers Anthony Giaquinto and Michael Carrino were able to locate the subject vehicle as it attempted to parallel park on Ridge Road near Summer Avenue. Officer Carrino approached the driver, Paresh Ghandi, and was immediately able to determine he was impaired. Officer Giaquinto then observed what appeared to

fresh damage to the vehicle’s front end. Carrino, Giaquinto and Officer Matt Dudek uncovered a large quantity of numerous types of prescription drugs in the vehicle. The drugs were not labeled with the drug name of the rightful owner. Gandhi failed field-sobriety tests at the scene and Officer Carrino placed him under arrest. While at headquarters, Gandhi began to experience a medical episode and was subsequently transported to Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, for medical evaluation, where he was ultimately admitted. He was charged with six counts of illegally possessing a prescription legend drug. It is unclear whether Gandhi struck any vehicles during his travels to Lyndhurst.

Knights hosting breakfast to benefit NA CERT Team

he Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus sponsor a benefit breakfast on behalf of the North Arlington Community Emergency Response Team, CERT, Sunday, March 6, at 10 a.m., at the Columbian Club Hall. You may either eat-in or order takeaway. Enjoy a breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, pancakes, cereal, oatmeal and bagels, and help a great community volunteer

was fraudulent, so officers executed a motor-vehicle stop. Det. Chris Cuneo recognized the driver as Arias, who had been arrested Feb. 4 on fraud and drug-related charges. A week before that, Auteri says, Arias had been arrested on similar charges by the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office.

A search of the van by Cuneo and Officers Ed Montoya and Angel Batista revealed Arias to be in possession of ecstasy and drug paraphernalia. He was charged with possession of controlled-dangerous substances and possession of drug paraphernalia, before, you guessed it, being released on his own recognizance.

LPD: Man with 2 warrants arrested

detective’s strong instincts led to the arrest of a 29-year-old Bronx man who had unprescribed Oxycontin on him and who was the subject of two outstanding burglary arrest warrants, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri said. While investigating another matter Friday, Feb. 18, Det. Chris Cuneo says observed an older model Porsche Cayenne in the area of a business on Orient Way and Rutherford Avenue. Det. Cuneo ran a random license plate inquiry on the vehicle and learned the registered owner of the vehicle, Kaseem Kidd, was wanted for burglary in Middletown (N.J.) and Atlantic Highlands. Cuneo stopped the driver and found Kidd

was in it. Officers Michael Clifford and Michael Scalese assisted with the stop and arrest. A search of Kidd upon arrest revealed he was in possession of a small amount of Oxycontin. He was charged with possession of CDS before being released into the custody of the Middletown Police Department. — CANESSA

We Specialize in Repast

11-35 River Road | North Arlington, NJ | 201.246.0100 CentanniNJ.com | Centanni Ristorante | centanniristorante

Welcome Back to Centanni’s! All Reservations & Walk-Ins Welcome

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS organization at the same time. The cost is $15 per adult and $10 for children aged 6 to 11. Reservations must be made by calling (201) 988-0183. The Knights ask those dining in to consider donating a non-perishable, non-expired food item for their “Food for Families” project. — CANESSA

WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM

BUY 1, GET 1

Eggplant or Chicken Parmigiana

Lasagna

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Caccatore

FREE! over same Pasta

FREE!

over same Pasta

FREE! over Pasta

Sun. thru Thurs. 1 per customer. Cannot be combined. Must be dinner size entree. Any subsitutions will be extra charge. Not valid on holidays. Expires 02/28/22

PHOTOCOPIES OF COUPONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. COUPONS FOR TAKE OUT ONLY.

8 KPD: Man stole friend’s identity in 2021, is arrested The Observer | www.theobserver.com

By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

n May 14, 2021, a 20-yearold Kearny man reported to police that he was the victim of identity theft. The victim was tipped off when he received an email indicating a credit card for which he had not applied was on its way to him in the mail. After following up with a credit-reporting agency, the victim learned several accounts had been opened in his name, including one for a $20,000 loan. On July 7, the victim became suspicious the identity thief might be Phillip D. Biet, 20, of Kearny, a friend who knew his personal-identifying information from prior involvement with a Small Business Association PPP loan application. Det. John Fabula picked up the case — historically very bad news for people benefiting from elaborate theft schemes. Fabula conducted an extensive investigation leading to numerous communications-data warrants, seizure orders for over 30 bank accounts and search warrants

for Biet’s Patterson Street home and Dodge Charger, the person of Gregory Costa and a premises on Port Avenue in Elizabeth. In the early hours of Nov. 22, Kearny detectives assisted by the Hudson County Regional SWAT Team, executed the warrant to search Biet’s home and car. They recovered over $66,000 cash; over 30 credit cards; computer and electronic equipment; numerous cellular phones; a replica submachine gun and a replica AK-47 assault rifle, both which fired blanks; blank ammunition; a fraudulent driver’s license; fraudulent check stubs; checks; a ledger and receipts. On Feb. 8, 2022, the Elizabeth Police Department’s Emergency Services Unit assisted Kearny detectives in executing an earlymorning search warrant of a Port Avenue premises in Elizabeth. As a result of that warrant, Gregory Costa, 18, was turned over to Elizabeth police for drug-related offenses. On Feb. 11, Biet turned himself in at KPD headquarters for formal charging and was charged by

POLICE BEAT summons with money laundering (multiple counts), financial facilitation of criminal activity, theft by deception (multiple counts), credit card theft, possession of a false government document, forgery (multiple counts), possession of forgery devices, theft of identity and frauds related to credit cards. The investigation remains ongoing. On Feb. 12 at 11:04 a.m., Officers Angel Martinez and Sean Brady responded to a call of a car burglary in-progress on Chestnut Street. The caller met officers and reported she witnessed a young man enter the driver’s side door of her BMW SUV and begin rummaging through her vehicle. The woman’s husband confronted the burglar and chased him on foot to a pharmacy on Kearny Avenue. There, a physical struggle ensued, in which the burglar allegedly punched the husband in the face

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

before running back out onto Kearny Avenue. Undeterred, the husband resumed the foot chase until police officers joined in on Pavonia Avenue. Officers Alan Stickno, Cort Montanino, Mat Lopez and Sean Podolski chased the burglar through backyards, finally apprehending him near the Salvation Army building on Chestnut Street. The burglar was identified as a 17-year-old Newark boy. He was charged under juvenile delinquency with burglary, obstructing the administration of law, resisting arrest, robbery and trespass. The boy was remanded by a juvenile intake officer to the Essex County Juvenile Detention Center. On Feb. 16, Dets. Jordenson Jean, Kyle Plaugic and Sgt. Neil Nelson arrested Dino J. Demetro, 40, near his Belleville home. Demetro had filed a police report of a gunpoint robbery in Kearny on May 7, 2021. However, Det. Jean’s investigation led to probable cause to charge Demetro with two counts of false See KPD, Page 19

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague Observer Sports Writer OGSMAR@AOL.COM

A great day for Maroon Raider athletics Ten Nutley athletes declare intentions to an assortment of colleges

Local wrestlers, led by Lyndhurst’s Weaver, move on with district performances The local high school wrestling postseason began in earnest last week, with the crowning of NJSIAA District championships and runners-up to move on to this week’s region championships. Leading the way locally is Lyndhurst/North Arlington junior Damian Weaver, who won the second District 11 gold medal in his already fantastic career. Weaver, the son of Lyndhurst/NA head coach Scot Weaver, won the championship in the 150-pound bracket at the tournament held at Morristown High School. Weaver is the lone local to claim district gold this season. “I’m extremely proud of him as a coach and as a parent,” the elder Weaver said of his son. “He was rolled to his back in the finals and didn’t even blink an eye. I think he’s on point right now and peaking at the right time. He showed a lot of mettle, coming from behind to win in the finals.” Weaver trailed, 5-4, entering the final period, but came away with an 8-6 decision. “I think the big difference now is that Damian is no longer a boy,” Weaver

said. “He’s a young man now. He played football this year and I think that helped him get ready. Even during football, he found the time to wrestle at the club (in Roselle Park) twice or three times a week to stay sharp.” Weaver’s older brother Dylan is taking his redshirt season at Rutgers, so with fellow Lyndhurst native Donnie Pritzlaff on the coaching staff at Rutgers, there’s a chance that Damian might join the two after next season. Damian Weaver also won the Bergen County Coaches Association championship last month, so he’s well on his way toward carving out a stellar career of his own. Weaver, both father and son, will head to the Region 3 tournament this weekend at West Orange. Four of their teammates will also get the chance to move on. Junior Mike Simeone was second at 157 pounds and teammate and drill partner Tommy Montillo, also a junior, was second at 165 pounds. Kieran McNeil, a North Arlington High School student, was third at 113 pounds. McNeil is a sophomore. See VIEW, Page 11

Photo by Jim Hague

Nutley held its signing day for 10 of the Maroon Raider athletes to make their college intentions official on the same day. Front row from left are Aidan Scarpelli (Ramapo College, soccer), Allison Huelbig (Franklin & Marshall, track and field), Mackenzie Albert (Iona College, soccer), Olivia Leal (Winthrop College, soccer) and Dylan Santos (William Paterson, baseball). Back row from left are Jake Cirminiello (Kean, lacrosse), Paul Poplawski (Kutztown, football), Nick Schroder (York College, basketball), Matt Harbison (The College of New Jersey, football) and Frank Kokos (Misericordia, football).

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

NUTLEY – Mackenzie Albert and Olivia Leal have been best of friends and soccer teammates since the days of learning the times tables and consonant blends in second grade in the Nutley school system. So that’s why it was only fitting that the buddies share their finest moments as Maroon Raider athletes together, as Albert and Leal signed their NCAA National Letters of Intent together last

Wednesday after a special presentation in the Nutley High School gymnasium. In all, 10 Nutley seniors declared their intentions for college and signed letters with their respective schools. For Albert and Leal, they signed NCAA Division I NLIs that included a free trip to college and a spot on their schools’ soccer roster. “It’s a pretty big day for us,” said Albert, the high-scoring striker who signed her letter with Iona College in New Rochelle, N.Y. “I’ve been playing with

Olivia since second grade and I know we always had this day in our minds. I’m happy to share the day with her and my other classmates.” “It’s pretty cool that we get to do this together,” said Leal, who signed her NLI with Winthrop University in Rock Hill, South Carolina. “We always had the same goals and to achieve them together is great.” Albert will major in general biology with a focus on animal sciences to eventually See RAIDERS, Page 10

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Frank Kokos will head to Misericordia University in Dallas, Pennsylvania. Paul Continued from Page 9 Poplawski is taking his football talents to Kutztown Unibecome a veterinarian in the versity, also in Pennsyvlania. future. Albert prided herself Matt Harbison, the Maroon in becoming a better student. Raiders’ savvy quarterback, Ever since her first high will go to The College of New school report card, where Jersey to call the signals for Albert’s collective grade point the Lions. average was a paltry 1.8, she Kokos, who will major in improved dramatically as a sports science with the hope student to where she now of being a workout trainer carries a 3.4 GPA. That’s an some day, picked Misericorincredible improvement. dia for a simple reason. “I feel like it made me a bet“They were the first school ter person,” Albert said of her to offer me,” Kokos said. incredible academic ascent. “They seemed to accept me “It definitely helped me get and were willing to take a ready for college.” chance on me. They made Leal’s plan is to major in me feel right away like I was communications at Winthrop, one of their own. They saw a which won Leal’s heart over future in me.” other D-I programs like Poplawski was impressed American University and with Kutztown’s campus and Bucknell. facilities. “I just like the community “The campus is beautiful,” there at Winthrop and the Poplawski said. “I’m very soccer program is on the rise,” excited about playing there. Leal said. “It’s going to be a It doesn’t hurt that they’re good spot for me.” always winning.” While the Nutley girls’ Poplawski will major in soccer team was well repreeither criminal justice or sented, the Maroon Raiders’ accounting at Kutztown. football team placed three Harbison, a former Observmembers at different schools.

RAIDERS

Premier Care Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

TALKS

Dr. Hector Aguilar

IPF OR GERD, WHICH CAME FIRST?

It is estimated that 90 percent of people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) also have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, what the connection is between the two is not yet fully understood. IPF is a chronic lung disease that causes scarring, while GERD is a digestive condition which causes stomach acid to rise into the esophagus. A current working theory is that GERD allows tiny particles of stomach acid to aspirate into the lungs, creating scar tissue. Another hypothesis is that people develop IPF first and the pressure it causes on the esophagus is responsible for the acid reflux. Either way, people with IPF have increased rates of

survival if they are being treated for GERD. If you have GERD and you have any symptoms for IPF, such as difficulty breathing and a persistent cough, you should ask your doctor to check for IPF. IPF is very rare and difficult to diagnose. But if it’s caught early, you’ll have a better outcome with the disease. To schedule a health evaluation, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474. Our office is located at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B. P.S Gastroesophogeal reflux disease is associated with many pulmonary diseases including lung nodules, bronchitis, and scleroderma.

er Athlete of the Week, was sold on TCNJ after going to see a game played there. “The environment there was incredible,” said Harbison, the son of Bob, Nutley’s head basketball and baseball coach. “That’s the first thing that sold me. There was a great group of guys so that helped.” Harbison will major in civil engineering and TCNJ has a great engineering program. “I worked my tail off to get where I am,” Harbison said. “I know this is the best place for me to enhance my football career.” Nick Schroeder, who has spent the last four years playing basketball for Matt’s father, is headed to York College in Pennsylvania. Schroeder, another former Observer Athlete of the Week honoree, was also happy to share the day with people like close friend Harbison. “I grew up with all these guys and now I’m going on to the next level,” Schroeder said. “I just have to stay focused and think about what I’ve worked hard for. I have so much to learn to be the best that I can be.” Schroeder will also major in engineering at York, but will study environmental engineering. “I can’t ask for more than

is available on a walk-in or appointment basis for your primary healthcare needs.

this,” Schroeder said. Dylan Santos is off to William Paterson University where he will play baseball. “The NJAC (New Jersey Athletic Conference) is one of the best Division III leagues in the country,” said Santos, who will major in physical therapy and exercise science. “I like the coaches there.” Head coach Mike Lauterhahn is well known in local circles, as is his father, Bob, one of the most respected basketball officials in New Jersey. It also helped situations that Dylan’s father, Izzy, also played baseball for William Paterson, so it made perfect sense that Santos would head there as well. Aidan Scarpelli is also remaining close to home, as Scarpelli will attend Ramapo to play soccer. “I got to meet the coaches and the team on my visit there,” Scarpelli said. “Ramapo just won their conference title, so that says a lot. And I’ll be close to home, so if my family needs me, I’ll be right there.” Scarpelli is undecided about his major, although he’s leaning toward business. Lacrosse standout Jake Cirminiello will also stay close to his Nutley roots, as

he will attend Kean University to major in health science with the hope of becoming a chiropractor. “Kean’s program is on the rise, so I like that,” Cirminiello said. “I really enjoyed my visit there. I don’t mind being close to home.” Cirminiello plays practically every position on the lacrosse field, including goalkeeper in a pinch. Allison Huelbig was a teammate of both Albert and Leal on the soccer pitch, but Huelbig will head to Franklin & Marshall to run track. “I really like the campus and the surrounding area,” Huelbig said of F&M’s Lancaster, Pennsylvania location. “There’s a city surrounding the campus so it’s not a rural school in the middle of nowhere.” Huelbig will compete in the jumps (triple, high and long) as well as the 200-meter dash. She will major in marketing while at F&M. “I think it’s pretty cool that we’re all here experiencing the same thing,” Huelbig said. “We’re getting to see each other succeed and that’s pretty nice.” And to have one school send off 10 of its athletes off to college in the same afternoon is pretty special and truly remarkable.

View the entire issue online!

www.TheObserver.com Most Insurances Accepted

“Make your vision picture perfect... See what you’ve been missing. Visit our ofﬁce!”

Family Eye Care Eye Exams • Contact Lenses • Pediatric Care Your Eye Care Professionals Dr. Maria Domingues Lic # 27OA00630100

Dr. Jayswinder Kaur Lic# 27OA00689700

Dr. Marina N. Megalla

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

Premier Care Associates of West Hudson

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Lic# 27OA00690300

Dr. Carla Domingues Lic # 27OA00646200

348 Ridge Road • Lyndhurst La doctora habla Español

201.438.8668

A doutora fala Português

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

VIEW

Continued from Page 9 “I think it’s awesome for our juniors,” Weaver said. “They’re both only seasonal wrestlers, so there’s an upside to their potential if they decide to wrestle more. They’re beginning to look like wrestlers. McNeil wrestles all year round. I think his confidence was hurting a little. He needed to get a fresh start and try not to make the same mistakes. He is in great condition and never slows down.” Senior Danny Martinez finished fourth at 175 pounds, but earned a berth at Region 3 due to an injury. “He gets to extend his season another week,” Weaver said. Weaver said that he’s “blessed to have six of my former wrestlers to serve as assistant coaches.” “I’m really blessed to have them around,” Weaver said. At the District 9 Tournament at Nutley, Kearny had a great weekend, sending nine kids on to Region 3 by earning a medal. Two of the Kardinals’ sen-

C ELEBRATING

Photos by Jim Hague

Lyndhurst/North Arlington’s Damian Weaver was the lone local wrestler to earn a gold medal in last weekend’s district tournament round, winning the 150-pound weight class at District 11 in Morristown. CENTER: Kearny senior Alex Amorim was the runner-up in the 157-pound weight class at District 9 in Nutley. RIGHT: Kearny senior Israel Ormaza was the runner-up in the 165-pound weight class at District 9 in Nutley.

iors, namely 157-pounder Alex Amorim and 165-pounder Israel Ormaza, finished second in their respective weight classes, while seven other Kardinal grapplers all placed third to punch their respective tickets to Region 3. Those seven are: 106-pound freshman Adam Ramadan, 113-pound senior Jacob Solinski, 120-pound junior Joe Rocco, 132-pound sophomore Joshua Baeza, 138-pound sophomore Trayton Witt, 144-pound senior Jaden Figueroa and 150-pound senior Dallas Sanchez. The nine wrestlers advanc-

EYE

Y EARS !

CARE

DeLuca Vision Consultants Presented by Joseph A. DeLuca, M.D., F.A.C.S. STYE VS CHALAZION It can sometimes be difficult should be seen if a stye or chato tell the difference between a lazion becomes bothersome. If you get a lot of styes stye and a chalazion. However, despite both appearing red and because of blepharitis, your swollen, they are not the same. doctor may give you an A chalazion is a red bump on antibiotic-steroid ointment. the eyelid caused by a blocked Some people are more likely to have chalazia that come oil gland. A chalazion someback. Your doctor may want times may not produce any symptoms, aside from a hard to take a sample from the bump, but some report having area for a biopsy to rule out blurry vision with larger ones. other problems. To schedule an appointment, please call A bacterial infection usually causes a stye. It develops 201-896-0096. We are located under the eyelid or where the at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call eyelashes start in the corner of the eye. Symptoms of styes 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance. include pain in the affected P.S. Diabetics have a eyelid, a pimple-like appearance, and a scratchy feeling in higher risk for developing a stye or chalazion. the eye. An ophthalmologist

www.delucavision.com

ing enabled the Kardinals to finish second in the team standings behind ranked state powerhouse Delbarton. “It was a great weekend,” said Kearny head coach Tony Carratura, Jr. “It’s the best performance we’ve had in a couple of years. We only dressed 12 and we’re sending nine to the regions. The guys wrestled really well.” Amorim improved to 20-5 with his District 9 silver medal performance. “It was awesome to watch,”

Carratura, Jr. said of Amorim. “He’s only been wrestling for three years.” It was his drilling partner and friend Ormaza who improved to 21-3 on the season. “He’s very confident on his feet,” Carratura, Jr. said of Ormaza. “I think the whole team fed off each other.” Figueroa’s performance stood out, considering that the senior was bouncing around different weight classes throughout his career. “He always filled in where

we had a gap,” Carratura, Jr. said. “He sacrificed a lot for the team. He stuck with it and knew where we would need people. Him taking third in his class is a surprise.” The 113-pound Solinski also showed a lot, considering that he had to win three straight matches in the wrestlebacks in order to earn the chance to move on. “He’s really made some big strides this year,” Carratura, Jr. said. “I wish I had him for another year. He wrestled really well.” Kearny will have a full wrestling room in preparing for the Region 3 tourney. “We have a solid group of kids,” Carratura, Jr. said. “We have only three kids who ever wrestled in the districts before.” That says a lot about their development. Belleville will send six of its wrestlers to Region 3 this weekend, taking third place as a team behind Kearny and champ Delbarton. See VIEW, Page 15

HEALTH&WELLNESS & &WELLNESS

DIRECTORY

John P. Branwell, DPM., C.Ped 201-998-9700 • 37 Seeley Ave., Kearny

Podiatric Medicine • Surgery • Diabetic Shoes • Orthotics MEDICARE • BCBS • AETNA • Most Insurances

www.johnbranwellpodiatrist.com

CARDIOLOGY & INTERNAL MEDICINE

Call to make an appointment! (973) 777-3286

1135 Clifton Ave, Suite 206, Clifton, NJ 07013 FULL RANGE OF FOOT CARE:

Routine Podiatry Orthotics Foot Surgery

Proudly serving Essex, Bergen, and Hudson County

P O D I AT RY

312 Belleville Turnpike Suite 1B • N. Arlington, NJ (201) 998-3668 • www.drlatorafootdoctor.com

To advertise, please call our office at:

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY LOCAL MOVES & LONG DISTANCE IN HOUSE MOVES (LABOR ONLY) RENTAL BIN SERVICES LOAD & UNLOAD PODS

10% OFF WITH THIS AD!

CALL NOW & GET YOUR

FREE

AFFORDABLE MOVING QUOTE! WWW.GOWAGON.COM 201-921-6432

0% FINANCING UP TO 18 MONTHS! NO MONEY DOWN!

• Boilers • Bathroom Remodeling • Oil to Gas Conversions

• Sewers Video Camera Inspections

267 River Rd. | North Arlington | New Jersey

LIC# 9529 |T: 201.997.8565 | F: 201.997.1085 | www.DeGracePlumbing.com

REFRIGERATION • AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • SALES • SERVICE NORTH ARLINGTON, NJ WAYNE CANGIALOSI ROCHELLE PARK, NJ NJ LIC.# 13VHO1132900 • NJ Master HVACR Lic.# 19HCOO868800

201-981-0852

waynehvacr@verizon.net • www.waynerefrigeration.com

NJ Plumb# 11103 / HVAC# 19HC00064800

COURAGEOUS

PLUMBING, HEATING, COOLING Sewer & Drain Cleaning/Excavations Central AC/Furnaces/Humidifiers

$25 OFF

YOUR FIRST JOB CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERING

Oil to Gas Conversion, Inspections, Hot Water Heaters, Permit Corrections for Resale Visa, Mastercard and Discover Accepted courageousllc.com • courageousplumb@aol.com

201.206.4845 • 908.387.8150

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Laquindanum: Belleville’s little big man By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

BELLEVILLE – At first glance, you might not be overly impressed with Belleville High School senior point guard Ethan Laquindanum. After all, Laquindanum isn’t exactly physically intimidating. He stands about 5-foot-7 on a good day if he’s standing on a stack of encyclopedias. He weighs about 150 pounds soaking wet after having a hearty lunch. “The first thing that hits you when you see him is that he’s only 5-foot7,” says Belleville head boys’ basketball coach Jim Catalano. “You say to yourself, ‘Well, what can he do?’ Then you see him defend the other point guard and if you’re the opponent, you realize you want no part of him.” Laquindanum likes the idea that opponents show him no respect because of his height – or lack thereof. “Every game I play, I always say that it’s heart over height,” Laquindanum said. “It doesn’t matter how big they are. I’ll do whatever I can to help us win. I always feel like I have to prove something.” Lately, the diminutive point guard has been doing a little bit of anything and everything to help the Buccaneers win, as they have a remarkable 15-7 overall record, despite having to play all of their games this season on the road due to floor damage caused by severe flooding after the remnants of Hurricane Ida swept through last October. Laquindanum has been nothing short of brilliant over the last few weeks, filling up the statistic sheet every single game. A few weeks ago, Laquindanum had a 14-point, 13-as-

Photo by Jim Hague

Belleville senior point guard Ethan Laquindanum.

sist performance in a win over Passaic and followed that up with a 16 point, six rebounds, eight assists and six steals in a win over Montclair. But in the past week, the stellar point guard has kicked it into another gear, playing at an almost superhuman level. Laquindanum started off the week with a 25-point, fiverebound, five-assist and six-steal outing in a win over Hoboken, then had 19 points, seven assists, four rebounds and four steals in a win over West Caldwell Tech. Laquindanum had 10 points in a loss to Millburn, but rebounded with a 13-point, 11-assist, five-rebound and five-steal outing in a clutch 72-71 win over West Essex. For his versatile efforts, Laquindanum has been selected as The Observer Athlete of the Week for the past week. For the season, Laquindanum has tallied 267 points, added 138 assists, has 78 steals and 65 rebounds. That’s outstanding versatility. “He sets the tone for whatever we do,” Catalano said. “He’s started for us for three years, but this

year, we were looking to expand his understanding of our offense. He’s one of the smartest players I’ve ever coached. I didn’t want him to start second guessing himself. Little by little, he expanded his game and just kept getting better. He worked on a couple of moves that got him to the free throw line more. In fact, he’s actually mastered that. I don’t want to put the ball in anyone else’s hands. He’s one of the most complete kids I’ve ever had at both levels.” Catalano was a longtime coach on the college level at New Jersey Tech, now called NJIT, before taking over the Belleville reins four years ago. And Catalano believes that Laquindanum can continue his success on the collegiate level, wherever he ends up playing. “No question, he can play at the next level,” Catalano said. “He’s a phenomenal talent. When he has the ball in his hands, you can’t stop him from where he wants to go with it. The Hoboken coaches said that Ethan was the best point guard they saw See ATHLETE, Page 14

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Obituaries Ernestine ‘Cookie’ Banach Ernestine “Cookie” Banach, 78, of North Arlington, died Feb. 11, 2022. Loving mother of David Banach & his wife Deanna, and the late Christopher Banach, she was the adoring grandmother of Robert Roche, Fox David Banach, Brian Christopher Banach and Baby Scarlett Amelia Banach due to arrive April 2022. She is also survived by her long time loving companion Bill Bayersdorfer. Cookie was born in Newark. She was a nurse for 55 years starting out in 1966 as a Registered Nurse, progressing to Head Nurse and eventually Director/Administrator of Extended Care in West Hudson Hospital. She specialized in geriatrics where as a member of National Nursing Home Association, she was honored as top administrator on the Atlantic coast. After a long career in that position, she moved on to hospice for a time and was most recently a case worker for a nursing home, only calling it quits as a result of the COVID pandemic. She retired

at the age of 76. She was an avid supporter of animal rights and frequent donor. She was a lover of art who often frequented art and craft shows and enjoyed her personal collection. Her funeral is set for Thursday, Feb. 17, at 10 a.m., from the Ippolito Stellato Funeral Home, 425 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst. Funeral service at 11 a.m. Entombment will be in Holy Cross Chapel Mausoleum, North Arlington. Friends will be received Wednesday, Feb. 16, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Donations may be made to Bergen County Animal Shelter, 100 United Lane, Teterboro N.J. 07608. Leave condolences at www.stellatofuneralhomes.com. Anna Rispoli Anna Rispoli, 90, of North Arlington, died Feb. 13, 2022, surrounded by her

loving family after a courageous two-year battle with pancreatic cancer also having been a breast cancer survivor. Anna is survived by her loving husband, Vincent James, her sister, Veronica Caporale, her children, Theresa Wescott and George, Daniel Rispoli and Toni Lynn, Diane Addesso and Mark. Her grandchildren, Colleen Connaughton and husband Bernard, Brian Wescott and fiancé Jessica, Lindsay and Stephen Addesso, Nicole Rispoli and her great-grandchildren Zachary, Aisling and Gianna. She was predeceased by her parents Charles and Verna Domanski and her brother Frank Domanski. A special thank you to all her Loops of Love, bowling and neighborhood friends who remained in touch or kept her in their thoughts and prayers during her ill-

Shaw-Buyus Home for Services

Mario Teixeria, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757

Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048 Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations. Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.

138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032

(201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com

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

ness. Anna and her beautiful blue eyes will be greatly missed by all who loved her. The funeral was at the Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, Lyndhurst. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Queen of Peace Church. Entombment was in Holy Cross Chapel Mausoleum, North Arlington. In lieu of flowers, a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis Tenn. 38105 or Queen of Peace Church, 10 Franklin Place, North Arlington N.J. 07031 would be appreciated. Leave condolences at www.stellatofuneralhomes. com. Joan R. Egan Joan R. Egan (nee Ciuba), 79, of Kearny died Jan. 7, 2022. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial visitation for Joan at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral

Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, on Sunday, Feb. 20 from 1 to 4 p.m. Born in Newark, Joan lived in Kearny since 1976. She worked for St. Stephen’s School in the cafeteria for many years prior to her retirement. Joan was the favorite aunt to her loving nieces and nephews. Joan was the beloved wife of the late John E. Egan; loving mother of Jo Ann Egan, Melanie Macartney (John) and Andrea Egan; and cherished grandmother of James, Tiffany, Jonathan and Devin. She was also the dear sister of Richard Ciuba, Ronald Ciuba, Cookie Wilczek Judith Murrin, and the late Melanie Calabrese, Hobo Ciuba, Robert Ciuba and Mary Ann Caruso. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Mulligan Funeral Home 331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish

Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221

Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North

973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com

has gone

MOBILE.

Read your local news on your smart phone or tablet. Try it today!

WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916

You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home

596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657

www.TheObserver.com

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES Dozens of local scholars on Seton Hall’s Dean’s List Scores of locals made the Dean’s List at Seton Hall University, South Orange, for the fall 2021 semester, including: Sereen Abu Hawa, of Kearny; Oluwayinka Akindebe, of Bloomfield; Christian Almestica, of Belleville; Ohm Amin of Belleville; Pax Ardanz, of Nutley; Julia Baranowski, of Nutley; Carolina Barba, of Belleville; Gabriel Borges, of Bloomfield; Tameeah Browne, of Bloomfield; Alyssa Buccheri of North Arlington; Ari Burdulis, of Nutley; Joshua Calatayud, of Belleville; Jerrold Calvo, of Kearny; Jillian Cancela, of Lyndhurst; Cayla Carino, of Belleville; Durdanah Chowdhury, of Bloomfield; John Christman, of Nutley; Nicholas Cimicata, of Lyndhurst and Bernard Consalvo, of Lyndhurst. Also, Lauren Costello, of Nutley; Teresa Cruz, of Bloomfield; Oliver De Leon, of Belleville; Brooke Decker, of Kearny; Pamela Diaz, of Kearny; Vivienne Dotoli, of Nutley; Matthew Duane, of North Arlington; Ammar Elshikh, of Kearny; Brielle Fabrizio, of Kearny; Kareem Fakry, of Kearny; Tyler Fearon, of Kearny; Priscilla Febus, of Bloomfield; Gianni Feraco, of Nutley; Emely Fermin, of North Arlington and Dominique Fina, of North

ATHLETE

Continued from Page 12

Think you can’t refinance because values are down?

THINK AGAIN!

Arlington. Also, Isabel Fontanals, of Nutley; Brandon Furtado, of North Arlington; Timothy Georgetti, of Nutley; Vanessa Giraldo, of Lyndhurst; Julia Glowacki, of Lyndhurst; Gustavo Godoy, of Kearny; Aleksandra Golda of North Arlington; Denisse Gonzales, of Harrison; Gianna Gugliuzza, of North Arlington; Anna Henning, of Lyndhurst; Elaina Henning, of Lyndhurst; Noah Ibasitas, of Nutley; Emily Jablonowski, of Nutley; and Amy Jacobsen, of Nutley. Also, Sydney Kunz, of Nutley; Sally Lai, of Bloomfield; James Laquindanum, of Belleville; Julia Liu, of Kearny; Nicole LuceroHuert, of Kearny; Philip John Mabalatan, of Bloomfield; Jessica Marciniak, of Nutley; Sairis Martinez, of Lyndhurst; Isabelle Mazgaj, of Lyndhurst; Pooja Mehta, of Nutley; Joel Melendez, of Belleville; Scott Miceli, of Kearny; Naomi Miranda, of Kearny; and Sirish Modhagala, of North Arlington. Also, Nick Morelli, of Lyndhurst; Cara Mia Norelli, of Bloomfield; Tyler Onove, of Bloomfield; Jack Otto, of Bloomfield; Andrew Palma, of Lyndhurst; Patrycja Parafinska, of Kearny; Tyler Partyka, of Lyndhurst; Justin Petracco, of Nutley; Yuvraj Raja, of Nutley; Sunny Rana, of Bloomfield; Jeremy Adam Resurrec-

cion, of Bloomfield; Ivanna Rivera, of Lyndhurst; Lucia Rizzuto, of Nutley and Jonathan Rodrigues, of Kearny. Also, Rafael Romero Quevedo, of Kearny; Sasha Rosario, of Belleville; Victoria Rusman, of North Arlington; Cristina Sabia, of Nutley; Anthony Sammarone, of Lyndhurst; Bianca Sanchez, of Kearny; Sean Sanchez , of Belleville; Alexia Seeram, of Belleville; Rawle-Ann Sobransingh, of Belleville; Jarod Soltmann, of Bloomfield; Evelyn Stewart, of Bloomfield; Kyara Syed, of Lyndhurst; Melanie Touchard, of Bloomfield; Christopher Twomey, of Belleville; Ethaniel Vega, of Kearny; Victoria Ventura, of Nutley; Dana Vo, of Belleville; Danny Vu, of Belleville; Rachel Walters, of Lyndhurst; Jordan Zarro, of Nutley and Nicolas Zuniga, of Belleville. Local residents on Dean’s List at U. of Hartford Several local students made the Dean’s List at the University of Hartford for fall 2021, including Nana Amankwah, Katherine Kallay and Dylan Zapata Quinatoa, of Bloomfield; Justin Diller, of Lyndhurst; and Julianna Kocenski, of North Arlington. Area scholars earn Dean’s List honors at St. Peter’s More than 750 students were recognized for their

this year. He’s a lot stronger ready for the next level.” than you might think and he’s Laquindanum, whose cousins quicker than anyone else. At this Shanne and Andrey are also point, we just need to get him teammates with Ethan on the

NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031

RATES AT HISTORIC LOWS!

FREE

Analysis for Purchase & Refinance!

ROB PEZZOLLA • NMLS# 266181 • ROB@KEYPOINTMORTGAGE.COM

TEL: 201.998.9050 • FAX: 201.820.0505

outstanding academic performance over the fall 2021 semester at St. Peter’s University, Jersey City, by being named to the Dean's List, including: Douglas Edert, of Nutley; Catherine Rios and Abigail Maldonado, of Belleville; Brian Bartoszek, of Lyndhurst; Carolina Guedes, Sara Haizoun, Daniel Davila, Freddy Fernandez, Jimena Ruidias, Barbara Munoz, Nino Karaulashvili Decastro, Bailey Canela, Alexandra Gamero, Michael Uhler, Kaylalisa Fernandez-Taveras, Mike Velez, Roberto Ferreira, Maryvit Luna, Nicole Zambrano, Steven Silva and Carolyn Bellido, all of Kearny; Adriana Balidemaj, Matthew Goodman, and Mia Ferraioli, of North Arlington; Olivia Dul, Katherine Sanchez and Xiomara Vargas Espiritu, of Harrison; Jael Concepcion, Anthony Mulvine, Leslie Barrera and Janise Ramos, of Bloomfield; and Daniela Ferreira, of Lyndhurst.

Mojica, Emanuelly Oliveira and Kevin Galarza, all of Kearny. To achieve this honor, students must maintain a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher and complete at least 12 credits during the semester. MacConchie on University of Mississippi’s Chancellor’s Lists Connor MacConchie, of Kearny, was named to the University of Mississippi's Fall 2021 Chancellor’s Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.75-4.0. In order to be eligible for honor roll designation, a student must have completed at least 12 graded hours for the semester and may not be on academic probation during the semester.

Several from area on Caldwell’s Dean’s List Numerous local scholars made the Dean’s List at Caldwell University for the fall 2021 semester, including: Jessica Horvaht and Albert Ruff, of East Newark; Jennifer Mota and Melissa Toth, of Harrison; and Elizabeth Ann McChesney, Alexsandra

Locals achieve honors at Clark University The following local residents were named to Clark University's Fall Dean's List: Gralen S. Vereen, of Kearny, achieved second honors and Ed Henry Greig, of Nutley, achieved first honors. Students must have a GPA of 3.8 or above for first honors or a GPA between 3.5 and 3.79 for second honors. Clark is located in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Buccaneers, making the team a total Laquindanum family affair, is determined to get a chance to play college basketball somewhere. “I’ve been playing basketball all my life,” Laquindanum said. “It’s a really big passion of mine. I don’t have any offers yet, but with the state playoffs coming up, I can show coaches what I can do. I can pass the ball and I can defend. I can handle every aspect of the game and can do as much as guys a foot taller than me.” Laquindanum said that he spent the offseason going to Fairway Park in Belleville, playing almost daily with his older brother James. “I think having so many players in my family motivates me to play every day,” Laquindanum said. “We all play together a lot.

It’s really a lot of fun. There’s good chemistry between us all, especially with Shanne. He can knock down threes left and right. It’s great to see how much we’ve all improved.” And yes, Ethan has certainly become a better basketball player. “Coming into my freshman year, I couldn’t shoot a single jump shot,” Laquindanum said. “But Coach Catalano taught me the pull-up jumper and that changed my game. I’ve worked on that shot all the time.” Laquindanum is also an excellent student, having kept a 3.6 grade point average. He hopes to major in computer science in college. Where that college is remains a mystery. But no one can doubt Ethan Laquindanum any longer. He’s proven he’s the real deal.

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

POT

Continued from Page 1 parking “sufficient to meet the needs” of a commercial business. n Equip their shop with an odor-absorbing filtration system and adapt their ventilation and exhaust systems to prevent the aroma of marijuana from wafting outside. n Limit their business hours to the period from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. n Provide a 24-hour security plan. n Pay the town an annual “cannabis transfer tax” amounting to 2% of all revenue from sales. Cookies Harrison LLC and Green Solutions Origin LLC each listed its prospective location as 615 Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard South — which is part of the Harbor Station 330 complex, Building 3, which contains Ah’ Pizz and an adjoining vacant retail space, in the town’s redevelopment area. Richard Miller, a principal with the Pegasus Group, a co-developer with Ironstate Development of Harbor Station 330, said the currently empty space is targeted for leasing to a single cannabis retailer.

Google Street View

Harrison’s two marijuana stores would both be located in this building at 615 Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard South is the state gives one or both the OK. When that approval might come is still not yet known.

Harrison’s ordinance permits “a maximum of two” Class 5 cannabis retail businesses. For each of the other cannabis adult personal use businesses (Class 1 cultivator, Class 2 manufacturer, Class 3 Wholesaler and Class 4 distributor and Class 6 delivery), the town allows only one. Medical cannabis businesses are exclusively licensed by the state. Thus far, no applications for any of those other classifications have been received, according to Fife.

the kid,” Pizzi said of Tafuri, another team captain. Sophomore Rocco NeContinued from Page 11 gron finished second at 132 pounds. Sophomore Jakob Ferrer “He earned his way,” Pizzi was second at 106 pounds. said of Negron, who also A product of the Belleville had to overcome some tough Recreation wrestling proscores in his matches. gram, Ferrer has a gaudy Junior Matias Lopez was 30-3 record. second at 138 pounds. Junior “The kid has been pheFernando Collado was third nomenal all year,” said at 165 pounds and senior Belleville head coach Joe Ethan Lopez (no relation Pizzi. “He’s all action, all on the offensive. He’s also a very to Matias) was third at 175 pounds. good student and well liked Pizzi was named the by everyone.” Coach of the Year for DisSo much so that Ferrer is trict 9. It was the second best already a team captain as a honor he’s received this year, sophomore. the other one is being called “He works his tail off in every aspect of his life,” Pizzi being a father. Pizzi became the father to said. Joseph Pizzi III on Feb. 3, Senior Lorenzo Tafuri is so Coach of the Year and bethe team’s 113-pounder. He coming a daddy in the same also finished second in his month is quite impressive. weight class and now has a And now, it’s on to the Re19-8 record for the season. gion 3 tourney for the local “He was down 5-0 in one wrestlers. match and came back to pin

VIEW

A prospective cannabis cultivator reportedly had contemplated purchasing the Pechter’s Bakery property on Jersey Street with the intent of converting its use but that deal was never consummated, the mayor said. As a final step in the review process, Harrison’s two applicants are now required to

apply separately to the state CRC for a decision on whether they can become a duly licensed cannabis retailer. “The state tells us they’re ready to begin reviewing applications in March,” Fife said. New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance and Marketplace

Modernization Act permits the legal sale and use of cannabis and cannabis products for residents ages 21 and older who can buy and possess up to one ounce of cannabis. In other business conducted at the Feb. 15 session, the mayor and council introduced an ordinance retroactively adjusting the annual pay of Police Chief David Strumolo to $202,000 for the period March 1, 2020 to Feb. 28, 2021; $208,060 for the period March 1, 2021 to Feb. 28, 2022; and, going forward, $220,072 for the period March 1, 2022 to Feb. 28, 2023; and $226,674 for the period March 1, 2023 to Feb. 29, 2024. The governing body will have a public hearing on the pay ordinance March 1. The mayor and council also voted to adopt another pay ordinance re-setting the annual maximum pay for senior public health nurse and senior registered environmental health specialist, each, to $93,501 in 2022, $98,311 in 2023 and $103,157 in 2024.

Prepare for power outages with a Generac home standby generator REQUEST A FREE QUOTE!

844-357-2113

FREE

7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value! Limited Time Offer - Call for Details

Special Financing Available Subject to Credit Approval

*To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

Observer Classifieds

The Obsever 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 — no billing. Call 201-991-1600 to place an ad. The Observer cannot accept legal advertising.

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Stable and SAFE work environment and a chance to grow with a solid company •SKILLED CLIMBER & EXPERIENCED GROUND GUY •DRIVER West Milford or North Jersey area Experience & Transportation and a valid driver’s license a must Call 973-728-0842 31W12

38W09

Delivery Person wanted, Must Have Car. (201) 997-3887 40W03

40W03

OPEN HOUSE:

WEDNESDAY 2/16/2022 , 2/23/2022 & 3/02/2022 9:30AM to 2:00PM Pathways to Independence, Inc, A day program supporting adults with intellectual & developmental disabilities M-F 8:30AM - 4:30PM Career opportunities for: Direct Support Professionals FT & PT ($14.82-15.25/hr) Van Drivers PT $14.75/hr - Van Aides PT $14.25/hr (split shift for drivers/aides 6:45AM-9AM and return again 2:45PM-5PM)

The Kearny School District Come join a great team in a rewarding school setting! NOW HIRING: Classroom Aides/Paraprofessionals $13.63 per hour Trained ABA Aides/Paraprofessionals $16.00 per hour

Teacher’s Aide To help with children in Day Care Center in Kearny. Please call after 3:00 pm. (201)991-5684

Daily Substitute Teachers (Must hold a valid substitute certiﬁcation) $150 per day

41W03

Long Term Substitute Teachers (Must hold a valid teaching certiﬁcation in the assigned subject area) $263.93 per day

Driver Wanted/ Kitchen Help 6 1/2 hour Position in North Arlington Clean Driving Record Call 201-991-6800 ex.2040

If you are interested in applying, please contact: Mark Fasciana Human Resources Manager 201.955.5139 mfasciana@kearnyschools.com 42W03

41W03

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 a MUST!!! Spanish speaking a plus. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM and 5 PM. Call (862)-264-0906 518 Washington Ave Belleville

Need Driver/ Loader pick-up passengers in van and load in helicopter. Full/Part time position Retires welcome call (862)849-2652 Location Kearny NJ Heliport

42W03

41W03

42W03

Must have HS Dip/GED all positions must have a clean driving record (license not required for Van Aides) 60 Kingsland Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032 or email resume to: pti450@aol.com (or visit us 9:30AM – 3PM M-F to apply) A great place to work & make a difference in the lives of adults with disabilities. eeo 41W03

Instructor Will train right candidate. Must be reliable. Part time driver wanted Call (201) 246-8000 42W03

42W03

Assistant Property Manager Full time, Knowledgeable in Microsoft word, excel, accounting program, writing letters, ﬁling, making and answering phone calls, etc. Please call 973-284-0900.

Excellent time off beneﬁts (FT & PT) / and excellent medical beneﬁts for FT

41W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Moishe’s Moving Systems, the leader in moving solutions for the past 35 years, is seeking individuals that are self motivated, detail oriented, and have a customer ﬁrst mentality for year-round positions. Who we are: Moishe’s Moving Systems has been the premier moving company serving the NYC market for the past 37 years. Every day we strive to alleviate the moving stressors from every customer we serve with on time service, friendly movers, personalized attention and completing the job to their outmost satisfaction. We always try to go the extra step and differentiate ourselves from the common moving companies. We are a proud partner of many organizations trying to end hunger , poverty and make the world a better place, come and join us. Who you are: Movers must be over 18 You have experience in moving/transportation or you are willing to learn Availability to work every day and some weekends What you get: Hourly pay depending on experience 401k contributions Paid vacation/Sick Days/Holidays Health Insurance Job Types: Full-time, Part-time 800-367-4453 or 551-689-9448

OPPORTUNITIES FOR CAREER GROWTH

Car Hauler - CDL A Lgl Trucking Services LLC Kearny, NJ Starting $1,800 weekly Home every day or on the road Full time Car hauling: 2 years experience required CALL NOW 201-598-8137

Superintendent for a building in Belleville No live in, 35 hours per week job consists of cleaning of all buildings inside, cleaning of outside of buildings, cleaning dumpster area, some light plumbing, changing of bulbs, batteries, painting, checking cameras if needed, repairs, etc. Please call 973-284-0900 41W03

Call Mid-Realty today for information how you can become a real estate agent! You have an opportunity to enjoy an independent full or part time career in real estate in just a few short weeks. For almost 60 years Mid-Realty Inc, has been a successful real estate company serving New Jersey. Whether looking for a new career or curious as to how our office supports our agents, call today for a confidential interview to find out more about us. (201)991-5719 Email midrealty@gmail.com Drivers Wanted Class A CDL All Experience Levels Great Pay $1500 Flat rate Home Daily (551)800-2906 Megamileresume@ gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Hiring workers for kitchen assistance, pastry assistance, cleaning, front customer service, waiters. Contact/Information 973-816-0328 or vicentesbread@gmail.com Vicentes Bread Kitchen and Cafe 343 Kearny Ave Kearny NJ. 42W03

PERSONALS

I would like to meet someone of the opposite sex. I am in my early 70’s Male, 5’10 inches tall, 180 lbs. I am single and caucasian. I live in a condo in W. Orange and attend a health club. Please call (973)868-7509 40W03

THE OBSERVER is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the next week’s publication. $10 for minimal changes. No refunds once ad is taken and C.C charged. ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PRE-PAID Deadline for Classiﬁeds Employment/Business Monday 12:00 PM All others Monday by 3:00 PM. E-mail Ads to classiﬁed@theobserver.com HARRISON TOWN NOTICE RESOLUTION NO. 1575-2-2022 RESOLUTION ADOPTING MEETING SCHEDULE FOR 2022 Pursuant to Chapter 23l, Laws of 1975, the following are designated as meetings of the Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the Town of Harrison, N.J. at which Public Housing Agency business may be formally discussed, decided or acted upon. Place & Location Commissioner’s Room Bldg. #1, Harrison Gardens Harrison, New Jersey Purpose Any and all Public Housing Agency Business Date & Time January 11, 2022 Regular –6:00 P.M. February 8, 2022 Regular – 6:00 P.M. March 8, 2022 Regular – 6:00 P.M. April 12, 2022 Regular – 6:00 P.M. May 10, 2022 Regular – 6:00 P.M. June 14, 2022 Re-Organization Meeting – 6:00 P.M. Regular – 6:15 P.M. July & August at Request of Chair September 13, 2022 Regular – 6:00 P.M. October 11, 2022 Regular – 6:00 P.M. November 15, 2022 Regular – 6:00 P.M. December 13, 2022 Regular – 6:00 P.M. In accordance with P.L. 2020 c.11, N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 and N.J.A.C. 5:39-1.1 et seq., during an active state of emergency, the Housing Authority may hold any of its meetings virtually, at which point, a notice will be published and posted, including on the Authority’s website, detailing the change and the means of accessing said meeting remotely. PASSED AND ADOPTED this 8th day of February 2022. Raymond Lucas Executive Director Harrison Housing Authority 41W03

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Observer Classifieds

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

Want your ad to stand out from the rest? Try adding some

CLEANING SERVICES

PEST CONTROL

HARRISON

KEARNY

color

PEST CONTROL

HARRISON 2nd ﬂoor. Renovated 2BR, 2 Bath, CA/Heat, laundry, parking. No pets. $2300 + 1 month security. Available March 1st. (646)5290562 42W03

KEARNY Arlington Section, 1st ﬂ. 4 family. 1 BR. DR. LR. EIK. $1,400+1 month security. H/HW included. no pets/smoking. Available March 1st (201) 998-7268 42WO3

CHAMPION CLEANING I use my own supplies. Good rates and great references! Call Susan at (973)743-2039

KEARNY N.NEWARK KEARNY 4 room apt. Dukes St. Front Hudson Park. Remodeled Hardwood Floors. No pets. $1350 + 1.5 months security. plus utilities. Available Now 973-391- 3868 40W03

KEARNY 5 modern rooms in the manor section. $1,800/mth plus 1.5 mth security (201)2806665 41W03 KEARNY Fully renovated 2 bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, Full kitchen, LR and DR included. $2,100/ mth plus 1/2 mth security Utilities included. No Pets/Smoking. Available March 1st. (201)5661357 42W03

N.NEWARK 3rd Floor. 1 BR. EIK, LR. $1200 +1.5 months security. Heat/ Gas included. Belleville/ Bloomﬁeld border. Quiet neighborhood. Close to transportation. No pets. No smoking. (973) 2026092 41W03

37W06

PAINTING & DECORATING

RUBBISH REMOVAL

Kevin’s Affordable Painting * Plastering * Sheetrocking * Carpentry and more. Our service and ROOM prices will be the best. Our customers come FOR RENT ﬁrst. Very neat and clean. Don’t miss out! Senior HARRISON Room in Discount. Fully insured (201) 565-6393 Home $500 + 1 months 39W06 security. Call or text 973420-0056 41W03

KEARNY Fully Renovated 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths. 1.5 Living rooms, 1 DR. Full kitchen. $2,800/ mth plus 1/2 mth security. Utilities Seperate. No Pets/Smoking. Available March 1st (201)566-1357 42W03

40W03

Attics, Basements, Yard Cleaning. We Haul or You Can Rent 10-15 Cubic Yard Containers. We Accept Visa/MasterCard (201) 998-1262 39W06

50W52

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC. BASEMENT RENOVATIONS NO MORE WASTED SPACE. Baths, Kitchens, Decks Painting. All types of Home Improvement. Quality work. Fair prices Fully insured. Lic# 13vh03006100

(201) 906-2422 38W06

B&A ROOFING

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

Luncheonette & Restaurant for sale in Lyndhurst Very good location Established for over 60 years 917-403-1491 40W03

OPEN HOUSE

HOUSE FOR SALE

and windows FREE ESTIMATES (201)719-3074

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

Licensed & Insured 41W06

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC •Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991

New + Re-rooﬁng • Flat rooﬁng • Siding • Gutters

172 Devon Terrace Kearny, NJ For Sale $372,500 OPEN HOUSE Sat 2/26 & Sun 2/27 from 12-2 pm 2 bedrooms 2 full baths, open plan living room /kitchen design, dining room, laundry room, lots of closets, lovely porch, yard and deck too! Contact Park Ave Realty Inc. Ofﬁce 201-933-9903 Karen Ciuba-Realtor Cell 973-568-2773 42wW01

(973) 343-1167 (201) 528-8350 (800)322-1019

erickconstructionnj.com Free estimates - Fully insured Lic#13VH04302300 10W54

• Concrete • Brick work • Steps • Stone Walls • Tiles • Painting • Sheetrock • Drywall • Plastering ALL types of Masonry For Free Estimates Call Edinson (973) 943-2254 40W06

Rooﬁng,

Siding, Windows/Doors, Decks, Gutter Cleaning Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Carpentry

The Observer

FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts

Your ad will

Lic. #13VH02536200 39W06

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

PLUMBING & HEATING Rooﬁng & Siding Free Estimates 201-780-7419 qualitygroupnj.com

@qualitygroupnj Licensed & Insured

Looking to make extra cash? Are you a handyman? Painter?

G&R BUILDERS

(201) 893-0656

39W04

N.ARLINGTON Beautiful apartment, renovated. Large rooms. 2 BR. LR. and EIK. Plenty of public park. Close to major Transportation. Hot water included. No Pets/Smoking. $1750 + 1.5 months security. Available Now (201)522-4470 42W03

42W04

A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

LACA CORP

Paint * Powerwash* and More •Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates•Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002

ROOFING/SIDING

N.ARLINGTON N.ARLINGTON Studio, 1 BR, EIK, Bath. 1.5 Months security. Utilities included. No Pets/No Smoking. 1 person preferred. Available March 1st (201)4288815 40W03

Licensed and Insured

40W04

BUSIENSS FOR SALE

N.ARLINGTON Small Studio apartment with seperate kitchen in garden apartment complex. Heat supplied. $1,200/ mth plus 1 mth security. No Pets. Parking available. Laundry on facility. Call between 10am7pm. (201)997-2341

KEARNY Renovated modern 3 bedroom apartment ﬁrst ﬂoor, access to patio , ready for rent March 1, no pets , no laundry, $2100 + 1 .5 security deposit, separate utilities. contact (201)772-9965 42W03

Find our how by calling The observer’s classified Department at (201) 991-1600 ToDAY!

Call 973-932-2092

HOME IMPROVEMENT

JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry. Hot Water Heaters. Fully Ins. Lic# 165

(201)637-1775

Advertise your talents with

appear in print & online and will reach thousands of loyal customers in print & on the web!

38W06

13VH11202700 40W06

HALL FOR RENT PAYLESS ROOFING Rooﬁng -Siding- Repair Same day service

(973)906-8404 Many local References paylessrooﬁngservices.com Established 1999 LIC#13VH00418100 39W06 39W06

Call (201) 991-1600

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The man who stops advertising to save money is like the man who stops the clock to save time. - Thomas Jefferson Start advertising your products and services to reach over 100,000 readers for as low as $40 a week.

All ads are featured online!

Ernie Hernandez was known to love riding his motorcycle. But in the latter stages of his life, he didn’t get to ride much. At the end of January, he is seen here after his beloved bike got a complete restoration from one of his friends. Though unable to ride it anywhere, he said it brought him a smile, in what turned out to be his last days on earth.

ERNIE

Continued from Page 1

Contact your media representative today!

201-991-1600

was known to achieve great peace when he rode his own motorcycle. Ernie was born on Long Island and was extremely proud to be a sergeant in the Harrison Police Department, his friends say. He was one of the first Latinos in the department’s history to rise to a rank above police officer. That ascension was something Harrison Councilman Larry Bennett noted about Hernandez, among many other wonderful attributes. “He was great police officer and a dedicated father and husband,” Bennett said. “I never heard a complaint or a bad word about him as went beyond the call to help people as a police officer and as a person. He will be missed by many.”

Hernandez is seen here with his daughter Graciella.

Hernandez’s wife, Jennifer Kane Hernandez, met Ernie more than 25 years ago and somehow gathered the strength to deliver a stirring eulogy and tribute to her husband at his funeral Mass last week, Feb. 15, at Holy Cross Church in Harrison. “Oct. 18, 1996, the month day and year we met. My husband, we drove each other nuts, yet you always let me get my way,” she said with hundreds of eyes gazed upon her from the pews. “People were always wondering, ‘are they fighting?’ We would say, ‘we are just loud talkers.’ And now the silence is deafening. “You could make me laugh no matter what. You loved with everything you had. I miss talking to you, I miss your text messages. We literally talked 20 times a day! I miss sending you funny memes that Continued on the next page

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Continued from previous page you never understood. “You were an amazing daddy to Gracie. She adored you and I know your love for her will protect her forever. I hope you felt the love over the past few days — this is all for you and you deserve every single minute. I hope we did you proud. “I didn’t realize the full scope of Ernie until this week, the countless messages about him. He always said he wanted to make a difference being a police officer and I think he did. Ernie, we love you more. And you would say, ‘I love you more more.’” After the funeral, Jennifer further reflected on her Ernie. “My husband was an incredible man and not one person could say differently,” she said. “He lit up a room with his smile and almost took your breath away with his hugs. I miss my best friend, my protector, the love of my life. Graciella and I are forever blessed to have been a part of his short life and he will never be forgotten.” Among the hundreds of tributes that flowed on social media for Ernie was one from former Harrison Councilman Anselmo Millan.

KPD

Continued from Page 8 reports to law enforcement in connection with his May 7 robbery allegation. Demetro was held at the Hudson County jail on those charges. On Feb. 17 at 2:23 a.m., Officers Cort Montanino and Kevin Matos were dispatched to Bayard Avenue for a report of vehicle burglaries in progress. When the officers tried to pull over a red Nissan SUV suspected of involvement, the SUV sped off, drove through Manor Park and then continued south on Passaic Avenue. Due to this year’s changes in the Attorney General’s Vehicular Pursuit Policy, the officers were forced to let the brazen burglars drive off without pursuit. However, Officer Paul Duran found one more alleged

Hernandez, right, with good friend and colleague Joe Sloan.

“Words can’t express how sad I am to hear of your loss,” Millan wrote. “Saying goodbye this soon feels wrong. Sending my condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at the Harrison Police Department during this difficult time. Thank you, Officer Ernie Hernandez, for your dedicated service to the Town of Harrison and Harrison Community.” Ernie began his 23-year law-enforcement career as a patrolman for the Newark Police Department, but he ultimately transferred to the Harrison PD, where he spent burglar who had been left behind on Hamilton Avenue. Taysean Dunbar, 20, of Newark, allegedly ran when Officer Duran tried to detain him. Dunbar was arrested after a foot chase by the aforementioned officers and Officer Bismark Karikari. Officer Ryan Wilson later found the red Nissan SUV in which the other burglars fled, presumably with impunity. It was abandoned on Stevenson Place with a damaged tire. A stolen license plate was affixed to the SUV. The plate the officers had spotted on it earlier was laying on its backseat. Dunbar was charged with burglary, conspiracy, obstructing, resisting arrest and two counts of receiving stolen property. Also subject to outstanding arrest warrants issued by courts in Kearny, South Orange and Orange, Dunbar was held at the Hudson County Jail.

the majority of his career. He wore badge No. 930. As is customary, he received an End of Watch radio call (the call may be heard on www.theobserver.com.) If you’ve never heard an EOW call before, it is extremely powerful. Twice, the dispatcher said, “Headquarters to 930,” his badge number. Receiving

no response, the dispatcher said: “All units, be advised, Sgt. Ernesto Hernandez has answered his last call for service. End of Watch, Feb. 10, 2022.” Thereafter, the dispatcher noted Hernandez’s career achievements, including service to the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office as a task force officer in the Narcotics

Unit. “Rest easy, Ernie, we have the rest from here,” the announcement concluded. Ernie was the son of Hilda, 91, and the late Enrique Hernandez. He was the beloved husband of Jennifer (nee Kane) Hernandez, and loving father of Graciella Hernandez, 7. He was also the brother of Eddie Hernandez and his wife Michele, Carmen Parker and her husband Jon, Enrique Hernandez and his wife Alicia, and the late Efrain Hernandez. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Joanne, and by many nieces and nephews and by his police officer brethren at the Harrison PD. Hernandez is the second Harrison police officer to die while still on active duty in an eight-month span. Officer Elizabeth Delacruz, 30, died June 22, 2021. Hernandez was laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery. Observer Editor Kevin A. Canessa Jr. may be reached at kc@theobserver. com. Follow him on Facebook & Twitter @kevincanessa.

Blazing Fast Internet! ADD TO YOUR PACKAGE FOR ONLY

19.99

/mo.

where available

2-YEAR TV PRICE

GUARANTEE

$ FREE

VOICE REMOTE

The DISH Voice Remote with the Google Assistant requires internet-connected Hopper, Joey, or Wally device. Customer must press Voice Remote button to activate feature.

99 MO. 190 CHANNELS America’s Top 120 Package

for 12 Mos.

FREE

SMART HD DVR INCLUDED

Including Local Channels!

FREE

STREAMING ON ALL YOUR DEVICES

* Requires eAutopay discount and includes Hopper Duo DVR ($5 discount for 24 months) or Wally/211

CALL TODAY - For $100 Gift Card

Promo Code: DISH100

1-833-409-2326 Offer ends 7/14/21.

“All offers require credit qualification, 24-month commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, Hopper w/Sling or Hopper 3 $5/mo. more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

DENTISTRY DEDICATED

TO EXCELLENCE. With combined experience of 50 years, Dr. Elfar and his team of dental professionals, provide the highest

$99*

quality of dentistry at affordable prices!

NEW PATIENT EXAM, CLEANING AND X-RAYS

SERVICES • General Dentistry

• Invisalign

*FOR NONINSURED PATIENTS

• Cosmetic Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry • Implants

• Periodontics

• Dentures

• Preventative/

• Oral Surgery

FREE

CONSULTATIONS (FOR IMPLANTS & INVISALIGN ONLY.

Hygiene

X-RAYS NOT INCLUDED.)

No insurance? No problem! Call us about our in house discount plan.

$350 IN OFFICE WHITENING

Mina A. Elfar, D.M.D. General, Cosmetic, & Family Dentistry

GOOGLE REVIEW "This is the best dental practice I've been to by far! Professional and friendly staff. Took me in right away. Very clean and new office. I was extremely impressed. Dr. Elfar and all his staff is personable and committed to providing the best care. Will be recommending to all my friends and family! 5/5!" -Rami Alrabaa

FLEXIBLE HOURS • EARLY, LATE AND WEEKEND HOURS 837 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ T: 201.991.1055

NEW LOCATION!

645 MAIN ST. • HACKENSACK, NJ T: 201.347.5001

WWW.GENUINESMILESPA.COM

2 W NORTHFIELD RD. SUITE 302B LIVINGSTON, NJ T: 973.758.8922