THE OBSERVER WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, SEPT. 1, IN OBSERVANCE OF LABOR DAY. FOR THE EDITION OF SEPT. 3, CLASSIFIEDS ARE DUE FRIDAY, AUG. 29, AT 2PM AND OBITUARIES BY 10 AM. DISPLAY & LEGAL ADS ARE DUE BY NOON, AUG. 28.
Loads of backpacks & supplies given to kids — at no cost — thanks to KPSUE
Scores of families were on hand Friday, Aug. 22, as Jenny Paz (holding up four fingers in right photo) the Kearny Public School Uniform Exchange handed out many new backpacks stuffed with school supplies at no cost. Scores of volunteers, including those in the left-hand photo, were on hand to help facilitate the day. More backpacks will be distributed Wednesday, Aug. 27, when those who have not yet received their exchange uniforms do so at the Kearny American Legion Post on Belgrove Drive at 6:30 p.m. ID & proof of Kearny residency required.
Kearny PD puts end to rash of break-ins & thefts at Passaic Avenue Exxon
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
For a couple of weeks, on numerous occasions, when Ozzie Shahzad would come to work in the morning at the Exxon station he owns at Passaic Avenue and Belgrove Drive in Kearny, he would quickly learn a signif-
icant amount of cash and merchandise had been stolen.
He made reports to the Kearny Police Department and ultimately, the case was referred to the Detective Bureau.
And now, after a few weeks of a lot of losses for Shahzad, the man who had been burglarizing the store ad nauseam
has been arrested — twice, in fact — and after the second arrest, he was finally held without bail.
Det. Sgt. Mike Gontarczuk, the Kearny PD’s public-information officer, says there were four burglaries that happened between late July and early August at the Exxon. The suspect would
enter the business through a side panel that can be easily manipulated to get into the garages.
Gontarczuk says the man, ultimately identified as Hubert Coloman, 55, of Newark, would steal a plethora of mer-
See EXXON, Page 15
Photos by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.
Pathways annual walk-a-thon set for Sept. 27
The annual Pathways to Independence Walk-a-Thon takes place Saturday, Sept. 27, from 10 a.m. at the Schuyler Avenue entrance to West Hudson Park. There will also be a tricky tray that day with an assortment of great prizes. Those who raise $100 or more will get a free T-shirt. Sponsorship and other donation opportunities are available. For information or to register, stop by the Pathways office at 60 Kingsland Ave., Ke-
arny, or call (201) 997-6155.
West Hudson Detachment 209 Marine Corps League hosting ball
The West Hudson Detachment 209 Marine Corps League hosts a ball to mark America’s 250th anniversary Nov. 15 from 6 to 11 p.m. at The Fiesta, Wood Ridge.
All Marines, Navy Corpsman, veterans, family and friends of the detachment are welcome to attend. Tickets are $100 each. To purchase tickets, make checks payable to West Hudson
NEWS BRIEFS
Detachment HCL, 286 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, N.J. 07032. You may also send payment by Venmo to westhudsondetachment.
The Kearny-Belleville Chapter of the Elks host a charity flea market Aug. 30, Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the lodge, 601 Elm St., Kearny. Items from housewares to electronics, lighting, car supplies, health products, office supplies, construction items and more will be available. Most of the merchandise for sale is brand new/never used. Please be sure to stop by!
Kearny PBA No. 21 hosting cigar night fundraiser
Dog & Cat Grooming
Kearny PBA No. 21 hosts its annual cigar night fundraiser Aug 29, from, 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Portuguese Cultural Association, 408 Schuyler Ave. Tickets are $125 and include a food buffet, an open bar, a
cigar bag on entry, raffles, door prizes and more.
Proceeds will benefit the KPD’s cycling team’s participation in the Tour de Force. Contact Sgt. Richard Poplaski Jr. at rpoplaskijr@kearnynjpd.org for tickets and more information.
NAPL hosting bee program
The North Arlington Public Library hosts a program for all ages called “The ABCs of Bees,” Saturday, Sept. 27, at 11 a.m. Master beekeeper Frank Mortimer, an adjunct instructor at the Cornell University’s Master Beekeeping Program, will give an overview of the world of beekeeping. He will explain why honeybees are so important to humankind and dispel common myths and misconceptions about these insects. Honey from his bees will be offered for sale at the end of the program. Space is limited. Please sign up at the children’s desk.
Kearny UNICO hosting Wind Creek trip
Kearny UNICO sponsors a bus trip to Wind Creek Casino Sunday, Sept. 21. The cost is $42. Riders get $25 back in slot play. A bus will leave at 9 a.m. from the American Legion, Belgrove Drive.
Coffee will be served before departure. All proceeds will benefit UNICO and its programs.
To purchase tickets, send a check made payable to Kearny UNICO to Lou Pandolfi at 81 Thoma Avenue, Maywood, N.J. 07607. Contact Lou Pandolfi at (201) 693-8504 or send an email to lpandolfi@verizon.net
Harrison-East Newark Elks hosting tricky tray
The Harrison-East Newark Elks host a tricky tray Saturday, Sept. 27, starting at 5 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 406 Harrison Ave. Tickets are $30 and include one small prize sheet. The event includes a cash bar and bring your own snacks. Call Justine at (908) 884-7973 to purchase
tickets and for more information.
Free Kearny Board of Health Narcan training upcoming
The Kearny Health Department offers free Narcan training Sept. 24 and Nov. 18 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The drug helps to reverse the negative effects of opioids and overdosing on such drugs. The free training includes overdose-protection strategies, signs and symptoms of an OD, how to properly administer Naloxone, rescue breathing, legal rights, support information and resources and free Naloxone kits to the first 25 who sign up and attend the training. Those interested should send an email to jkrowl@kearnynj.org or call (201) 997-0600, ext. 3505 to register. Participants must be at least 18, and live, work or go to school in New Jersey
NA Knights hosting casino night fundraiser
The Knights also sponsor a casino night Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, at 7 p.m. Games include blackjack, poker, roulette and craps with licensed dealers and tables.
Admission is $50 and comes with $100 in “play money,” with specials ongoing all night. Noncash prizes and gift cards will also be available.
Free food and snacks will be available, and there will be a cash bar. Tickets may be purchase by calling (551) 497-1696 or (201) 679-5310, or by going to the hall. Tickets purchased after Sept. 1 will cost $65. All proceeds will go to increase the council’s charitable giving.
Frankie McAllister night @ SI Stadium coming in September
The Frankie McAllister memorial soccer outing takes place Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison. McAllister was a Kearny firefighter who lost a
Continued on Page 14
Murphy signs PBA-backed bipartisan bill to expand first-responder mental-health care
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Gov. Philip D. Murphy signed legislation Aug. 21 proposed by the State PBA to enhance the benefits for and privacy of first responders seeking mental-health treatment through worker’s compensation.
The bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Roy Freiman and Sen. Joe Lagana, both Democrats, and 19 bipartisan cosponsors, requires an employer to provide up to 12 hours of paid, confidential counseling services for work-related traumatic incidents.
These services are in addition to any other benefits provided to members under their health insurance. The bill also, crucially, allows members to select their own counselors rather than use ones assigned by workers compensation.
Finally, the bill provides for confidentiality in communication between members and peer counselors provided through the PBA Peer team. This ensures members have the space to freely discuss their need for mental-health treatment without fear of their employer being advised.
“This is a major victory for our members and all first responders so that we can protect their mental and physical health,” state PBA President
Pete Andreyev said of the bill signing. “Any officer who feels the weight of the job getting heavier on their shoulders should look to this law and our mental health counseling services as their lifeline.”
Kearny PBA No. 21 President Mina Ekladious also chimed in.
“Research shows that law
enforcement officers experience approximately 200 critical incidents over the course of their careers,” Ekladious said. “Each of those moments carries the potential for lasting emotional impact — impact we have a responsibility to address and to heal.
“With the signing of this vital
legislation by Gov. Murphy — championed by the New Jersey State PBA and backed by a broad bipartisan coalition — we are taking a bold step toward safeguarding the mental health and dignity of those who serve our communities. This is more than policy — it’s progress. It’s a promise to every first respond-
er: you are never alone.
“The Kearny PBA extends its deepest gratitude to the elected officials from the 31st Legislative District whose vote made this possible: Sen. Angela V. McKnight, Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato and Assemblyman William B. Sampson IV.”
Ekladious
Murphy
LPD arrests scammer from Queens
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Most of the time, when residents are scammed out of a lot of money, there’s very little police can do since many of the scammers are overseas in places like India, Pakistan, Nigeria among others. But recently, a Lyndhurst resident who was bilked out of $75,000+ and who was under the belief the scheme was actually an “investment opportunity,” got a nice measure of justice from a keen Lyndhurst detective as he and the police found the
scammer, hardly overseas, but mere miles away in Queens. And even better, the case was cleared in just 10 days.
According to Capt. Paul Haggerty, the Lyndhurst PD’s public information officer:
On Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, a Lyndhurst resident reported falling victim to a unsolicited scam, in which they received initial contact via text message April 20. Over the course of the next three months, the resident continued to both digitally and personally transfer money to the scammer — sending more than $75,000 — with the belief this was an investment opportunity.
Take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:10-16*, application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, New Jersey, to receive title papers authorizing and the issuance of a New Jersey certification of ownership for, Coachman Clipper Camper, 2004, VIN - 1TC1C498045003988
Objections, if any, should be made in writing, within 10 days of the newspaper advertisement to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017
($22.50 08/13/25,08/20/25 & 08/27/25)
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY CHANCERY DIVISION HUDSON COUNTY
DOCKET NO. F-007993-25 NOTICE TO ABSENT DEFENDANTS STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO: PERRAULT JEAN-PAUL GABRIEL ARONOVICH
ILONA ARONOVICH
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED to serve upon FEIN, SUCH, KAHN & SHEPARD, plaintiff’s attorneys, whose address is 7 Century Drive, Suite 201, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054, telephone number #(973) 538-9300, an Answer to the Complaint and Amended Complaint, filed in a civil action, in which PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is Plaintiff and PERRAULT JEAN-PAUL, et al., are Defendants, pending in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, HUDSON County and bearing Docket No. F-012517-23 within thirty-five (35) days after August 26th, 2025, or if published after August 26th, 2025, thirty-five (35) days after the actual date of such publication, exclusive of such date, exclusive of such date. If you fail to do so, Judgment by Default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. You shall file your answer and proof of service in duplicate with the Clerk of the Superior Court, Hughes Justice Complex, CN-971, Trenton, New Jersey 08625, in accordance with the Rules of Civil Practice and Procedure. This action has been instituted for the purpose of (1) foreclosing a mortgage dated June 2, 2003 made by PERRAULT JEAN-PAUL as mortgagor to NATIONAL CITY MORTGAGE CO DBA COMMONWEALTH UNITED MORTGAGE COMPANY recorded on August 27, 2003, in Book 10400 of Mortgages for HUDSON County, Page 221, et seq., which said mortgage was duly assigned to the Plaintiff named above, who is the present holder of said Mortgage. and (2) to recover possession of, and concerns premises commonly known as 356 WOODLAWN AVENUE, JERSEY CITY, NJ 07305, Block 24702 FKA 1281.B, Lot 47 FKA 60
If you cannot afford or are unable to obtain an attorney, you may communicate with the Legal Services Office of the County of venue by calling:
HUDSON COUNTY LAWYER REFERRAL: (201)798-2727
HUDSON COUNTY LEGAL SERVICES: (201)792-6363 S/ MICHELLE SMITH
YOU, PERRAULT JEAN-PAUL are made party defendant(s) to this foreclosure action because you are one of the mortgagors and may be liable for any deficiency and for any lien, claim, or interest you may have in, to or against the mortgaged premises by reason of the Mortgage made by you, PERRAULT JEAN-PAUL, as set forth above.
YOU, GABRIEL ARONOVICH are made party defendant to this foreclosure action because you hold a judgment/lien/mortgage which may be against the owner/mortgagors and for any right, title and interest you may have in, to or against the subject property. Upon request, a copy of the Complaint and Amended Complaint, if any, will be supplied to you for particularity.
YOU, ILONA ARONOVICH are made party defendant to this foreclosure action because you hold a judgment/lien/mortgage which may be against the owner/mortgagors and for any right, title and interest you may have in, to or against the subject property. Upon request, a copy of the Complaint and Amended Complaint, if any, will be supplied to you for particularity.
MICHELLE SMITH
Clerk of the Superior Court of New Jersey
Dated: August 26th, 2025 PN443 ($413.25)
Det. Michael Giangeruso was
assigned the case, and through a myriad of investigative tactics, he was able to identify a pattern in which this organized criminal enterprise was operating.
On Friday, Aug. 22, at approximately 9:47 a.m., detectives and patrol officers from the department were able to apprehend Congxi Chen, 33, of Flushing, Queens.
Chen was charged with money laundering, theft by deception and two counts of conspiracy, all second degree crimes. Afterward, he was released on a complaint summons pending his initial
appearance in superior court in Bergen County.
Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. commended Det. Giangeruso and the officers involved in the coordinated operation for their teamwork and professionalism in apprehending Chen.
“This incident serves as a reminder to residents that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” Jarvis said. “Too often, we are unable to close these cases with an arrest due to their complexity, as a majority of these culprits are overseas. We are proud of the work put forth by all involved in bringing Mr. Chen to justice.”
Take notice that applications for a Waterfront Development Individual Permit and a Flood Hazard Control Act Individual Permit will be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Division of Land Use Regulation (DLUR) for the development described as follows:
PROJECT NAME: Remediation of Occidental Chemical Corporation Chromite Ore Processing Residue Site 131 Blocks 287 Lots: 2.01, 3, 16, 16.01, 20, 20.01, 27.01, 33, and 33.01 in Kearny, New Jersey
PROJECT APPLICANT: Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of its affiliate Occidental Chemical Corporation (OCC)
The proposed project consists of remedial activities at the Chromite Ore Processing Residue (COPR) Site 131 in Kearny, New Jersey. The work will be implemented by Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of its affiliate, OCC, in accordance with a Remedial Action Workplan approved by NJDEP pursuant to a Consent Judgement between NJDEP and OCC; PPG Industries, Inc.; and Honeywell International Inc., dated September 2011. The proposed Project includes implementing remedial actions on the northern portion of Site 131 including excavation of material, stabilization of the site and installing a cap.
The complete permit application package can be reviewed at the Kearny Town Clerk’s Office or by appointment at NJDEP’s Trenton Office. NJDEP welcomes comments and any information that you may provide concerning the proposed development and site. Please submit your written comments within 15 calendar days of the date of this notice to the following address:
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Division of Land Use Regulation Mail Code 1311-02A
PO Box 420
Trenton, New Jersey 08625
Attn: Kearny Supervisor
Inaugural Scarecrow Stroll coming to Kearny in the fall
e sure to take part in the of the first-ever Kearny
Scarecrow Stroll & Contest.
The stroll invites all of Kearny — residents, businesses, community organizations and school groups — to imagine and build the most wild, clever, and funny scarecrows within stroll guidelines.
Register now to create a scarecrow at www.kearnyscarecrowstroll.com.
Registration is open now through Oct. 2.
Scarecrows must be ready for creators to install Oct. 10 to 12.
The event is open only to Kearny residents, businesses, and community organizations — but anyone can vote for their favorites.
Scarecrows will be on display on Kearny and Midland avenues Oct. 12 to Oct. 31. That’s also when voting for fun and prizes will be open.
“We hope the stroll will bring the community and businesses together, encourage walking and bring a festive fall feel to town,” Linda Kraus D’Isa, KUEZ coordinator, said. “And as people are strolling, we hope they take the opportunity to visit our wonderful restaurants and businesses along the avenues.
For registration, FAQs and complete rules, visit www.kearnyscarecrowstroll.com.
Kearny PBA offering free haircuts to students from 3 local schools
The Kearny PBA is hosting a unique event Aug. 31 — and because of it, students from Kearny’s Washington and Franklin schools and the East Newark School will be able to get a free haircut to start off the new academic year.
It’s all the brainchild of PBA President Mina Ekladious, who wanted to do
something different this year.
Parents will need to register their children ahead of time at www.kearnypba.org/ events
Once registration is completed, the location of the haircut will be provided.
Please note the event is only open to students of the aforementioned Washington
THE OBSERVER’S OFFICE IS OPEN
and Franklin schools of Kearny and the East Newark School.
Rosy Bagolie, East Newark’s superintendent of schools, is also sponsoring the event, along with the VFW Post 1302 of Kearny as well as several other businesses, barber shops and individuals.
OPINION & VIEWPOINTS
Parenting through the Digital Age
By Damien Garofalo Special to The Observer
As another school year dawns, many students in America are facing tighter restrictions on cell phone usage. New laws have generated heated discussions. I will not weigh in on the political aspect of these laws, but I do want to address the anxiety many parents feel regarding the relationship between their children and technology.
Put simply, your child does not need a phone. However, for many reasons, parents feel that having a phone can be a good thing for their children. As a parent, teacher and pastor, I can relate to this tension. My wife and I have implemented some practices, through much trial and error, that have been helpful in navigating this issue with our children. I offer this to you for consideration, hoping you would find at least one of these tips helpful:
Time limits
More and more studies show the detrimental impact ongoing screen usage has on children (and adults). Established time limits help children to learn to use their time wisely, which aids in decision-making skills. Rather than reactively snatch the phone away, saying “That’s enough for today,” make clear the limits of time they are to have the device, whether it’s an amount of time (like two hours per day) or curfew (like no phone use after 9 p.m.), so they have more control over how to use their time.
Parental controls and check-ins
Thankfully, there are many apps and services that allow parents to have oversight of their children’s devices. Web and chat filters can help prevent your child from viewing pornography or talking with a predator, but
Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
these services also help you to see the less obvious dangers that are out there and speak with your child about his or her activity. I cannot see a reason for any child to have unfiltered access to the Internet.
Non-negotiable, phone-free spaces
We were created for community. You can foster this by establishing rules about where phones are not allowed. For example, we do not allow phones at the dinner table: having dinner together is a sacred time for our family to enjoy God’s provisions together, to share our days, and to practice serving one another in love. I would humbly suggest this same rule applies to going out to eat - spending time looking at and talking to your family, not your screens! This can be cultivated early on. Perhaps for you, it’s not the dinner table, but having some area of life that is not dominated by the phone will benefit your kids greatly!
Proactive relationship-building
We were created for relationships. Rules about phones should not be relegated to mere rules against their usage, but also opportunities to spend quality time with other human beings. Your plans to take the kids on a hike, or attend or play a sport, or watch a movie together, or have a game night will prove invaluable and open doors for heart-toheart conversations. As children look forward to these things, the phone will become less of a default for boredom.
Mixing it up
We have found that mixing things up while keeping to some boundaries are
See OP-ED, Page 15
Caroselli: Community policing has never been more necessary than now
To the Editor:
It has become obvious to me that community policing is really more important than ever as we deal with too many lawless activities throughout our country. I applaud Kearny for instituting this form of policing and the various activities designed to make the public aware of the vital work they do in their community.
Community policing enables the police to get to know their residents and for the residents to know them. In this manner, it is more likely these residents will want to partner with the police to help safeguard their neighborhoods.
the mess. I have many fond memories of the Jersey City police and my interactions with them. I have nothing but respect for all who serve and protect.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Today, I don't see this same relationship existing between the police in some communities and the residents. I know a number of police officers in Kearny and I know how hard their job is. Regardless, you can engage many of them in conversation and they respect you as much as you respect them. This is the way it should be.
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager
As I was growing up in Jersey City, the police knew the residents because there were foot patrols and not just police riding around in cars. The police knew our parents and they knew who we were. When I was only 14, I would walk the beat with a police officer named Don Nagle.
He was a veteran and had studied Tae Kwando in Korea where he became a 10th-degree black belt. It was quite an experience for me and I grew to love this protector of humanity. I remember many of the police officers from the rank and file to the commanding officers. I was always ready to assist them if I was needed.
On one occasion, someone broke into a business and there was glass strewn about. I helped a patrol officer clean up
Correction
I come from a family that always had a deep respect for law and order. My nephew, John, is a retired Bayonne Police Department detective who was a member of the Legion of Honor having been commended many times for bravery. My uncle was a magistrate and the chief corporation counsel under five Jersey City mayors.
His brother practiced law in the Supreme Court of two states. Many of my family and friends served in the military. So, knowing what I know and seeing the current policing in some locales as deficient, I write this letter in favor of Community Policing.
I hope this letter serves as constructive criticism and is not seen as anything other than that.
Rich Caroselli North Arlington
A story in last week’s edition misidentified the date of Lyndhurst High School’s varsity football season opener. The game will be played Aug. 28.
n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday
n Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday
n Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday
n Help Wanted: Noon, Monday — all ads must be sent to classified@theobserver.com.
Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster
For Mike Rusek this preseason has brought an old feeling to the longtime Harrison boys soccer coach.
While several members of last year’s Group 2 state finalist, including All-State midfielder Yusufu Jaite and 20-goal scorer Frank Barrera, are gone to graduation, the long playoff run it went on has produced a level of confidence and determination that has at times been lacking in recent memory.
“I think the past few years, a lot of my teams had a lack of understanding of what it’s like to get to the state finals,” said Rusek. “They just didn’t have that level of confidence because we kept having these tough losses (earlier in the
tournament).
“This year feels kind of like my old days coaching when we were consistently getting the state finals and we would come back the next year and know what we have to do and we want to do it again. I kinda got that feel again this year from the group of returning plays and it’s nice to get that back.”
Headlining that group of returning players from last year’s 19-6-2 team, are two of the state’s top midfielders in senior Christian Barrios and junior Pedro Barreto Reis. Barrios, a four-year varsity player for the Blue Tide, returns to start as the holding midfielder. Despite his skills as a defender, Barrios proved more than capable of making an impact on the offensive end with seven goals and 10 assists.
“He’s the type of kid that at some point in his soccer career, he’s played every position that there is,” Rusek said. “He’s very versatile for us.”
Barreto Reis, had 10 goals and three assists a season ago and is poised for even bigger things this year as an attacking midfielder.
“He’s been scoring big goals for us since he was a freshman,” Rusek said. “You rarely see a freshman do that, but he’s been ready to be a big time player in high school since the day he walked in.”
Sophomore Jhowy Pincon takes over as the primary center midfielder after seeing some time last season as a freshman. On the outside of the midfield will be senior Fabio Falla and sophomores Johao Narvaez and Jose Agudelo.
Senior Derek Castro, a
transfer from Newark East Side is set to have a key role as an attacking midfielder later in the season for Harrison, which will also rely on minutes in the midfield from junior Santiago Rodriguez, freshman Fabian Palacios and senior Nick Dos Santos.
Junior Kiandry Aban, who had eight goals and four assists, is set for a bigger role up top following the graduation of Barrera. Senior Samuel De Souza, a skilled yet physical striker, is also poised for major minutes at forward. Sophomore Estiven Alvarez and promising freshmen Alex Zambrano and Michael Barrera are in line for time up top as well.
On the backline, senior Angelo De La Cruz and junior Talha Husain are set for big roles at center back after serving as reserves a season ago, as is junior Diego Castaneda.
Michael Palacios and Marllon Da Rocha take over as the outside backs.Rusek is hopeful that both seniors can also be factors on the attack based on their history of playing in the midfield.
In goal, junior Anas Oufrid is set to take over as the starting keeper in 2025 after serving as the backup last season. Sophomore Renato Morales is Oufrid’s backup.
Harrison begins the defense of its North 2, Group 2 title on September 3 at Hawthorne before playing its home opener two days later against Cresskill. On Saturday, Sept. 5 the Blue Tide travel to Notre Dame in Hopewell to face Robbinsville as part of the Soccer Coaches Association of NJ Back 2 School Kick-Off.
Photo by Jason Bernstein
Harrison boys soccer players (left to right): Fabio Falla, Christian Barrios, Alex Zambrano, Anas Oufrid, Angelo De La Cruz, Jhowy Picon, Estiven Alvarez
Belleville football looks to build off winning year
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Belleville enjoyed one of its most successful seasons in recent memory a year ago, going 5-4 and winning four of its final five games.
The success hasn’t led to complacency. Instead, after finishing one game out of the North Jersey Super Football Conference’s Ivy Division playoffs, the Buccaneers enter 2025 with plenty of motivation to take another step forward.
“Last year we were competitive in pretty much every game that we played,” fourth-year head coach Brian Antab said. “We felt like a couple of these games we could have come out on the other
side of. We just need to find a way to get over that hump and finish those games.
“I think the experience from last year will definitely help. It’s definitely helping to drive our kids to continue to work hard and improve on that 5-4 season we had.”
A strong senior core is set to lead the way for Belleville this season, beginning with Jordan Armstrong (5-10, 190), a threeyear starter at quarterback.
Armstrong’s season came to a premature end a year ago and with the graduation of star running back Jeremiah Cook, is set to have a bigger role in 2025.
“He is embracing that challenge. He wants more of the
responsibility on him,” Antab said. “He wants us to put the ball in his hands and let him go.”
Armstrong will be throwing to
Photo by Jason Bernstein
an entirely new group of receivers, led by 6-foot-2 sophomore Sean Sharpe. Sean’s older brother, senior Jailen Sharpe, will see targets out of the backfield and senior tight ends Caleb Love (6-3, 225) and Samad Conway are also
set to be factors in the passing game.
Replacing Cook, who ran for more than 3,000 career yards, won’t be easy, but Antab sees four backs who will help fill that void.
Jaydan McDaniel is set to take over as the main back. He and senior Josiah Morton (5-11, 170) are the power backs, while Jailen Sharpe and Jaden Westfield are speed backs from the outside.
All four are set to have prominent roles as Belleville aims to be a powerful running team, thanks to an offensive line that is the biggest Antab has had since becoming head coach.
“All five across the board, we definitely are the biggest that we’ve been for sure. There’s a lot
See BELLEVILLE, Page 10
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PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-9987474 to schedule an appointment, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B. P.S. People with asthma or diabetes should use beta blockers cautiously, as they may worsen breathing issues or mask signs of low blood sugar.
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Premier Care Associates of West Hudson is available on a walk-in or appointment basis for your primary healthcare needs.
Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
Dr. Hector Aguilar
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
It would be easy for North Arlington and boys soccer head coach Pedro Martinez to lament the graduation of 14 seniors from last season. But while others may see a team that will be hard-pressed to match last year’s 12-10-2 record, Martinez sees a group that, while young, is ready to pick up the slack.
“This group is young, but we got a lot of players who have a lot to prove,” said Martinez, who enters his third season as Vikings head coach. “We have juniors and seniors that have been with us since freshman or sophomore year. It’s their moment to step up, fill the shoes, fill those roles that our seniors left and it’s their time
to shine.”
One of those players set for a big season is junior goalkeeper Jakob Gwiszcz, who is set to be the fulltime starter after sharing the position a season ago. The 6-foot-1 Gwiszcz showed flashes of brilliance last year, most notably with a 13-save performance in the Bergen Invitational Tournament final against Lyndhurst.
“He’s always played very well. He’s good with his hands, good coming out of the goal,” Martinez said. “Now that he’s a little bit bigger, a little bit stronger, he’s covering more ground, he’s playing more confidently in the air. He’s only going to get better.”
Senior Perdomo is set to be the backup.
North Arlington’s defense has been bolstered by the return of
MACULAR DEGENERATION OR AMD?
Age, or being over the age of 50, is the main risk factor for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Age aside, what are the risks of developing AMD or related juvenile macular degeneration?
Genetics or a family history of AMD is by far the most significant risk factor. Specific gene mutations thought to affect the body’s complement system (related to immune response) have shown an increased susceptibility to developing the disease. Other risk factors for AMD are mostly related to environment and lifestyle and may be more preventable, manageable, or controllable for some people. High cholesterol, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, smoking, UV sun exposure, and a diet low in essential nutrients (especially omega-3 EFAs) are all
risk factors for AMD.
Your doctor can check you for age-related macular degeneration when you see them for a routine eye exam and have your eyes dilated. You also can talk to your doctor about low-vision aids, such as macular degeneration glasses with high powered lenses or other devices that help you see small print and do daily activities that require sharper vision. To schedule an eye care exam, please call 201-896-0096. For your convenience, we also have an optical department (201-896-0007). Our clinic is located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. We accept most insurance.
P.S. Wet AMD is less common than dry AMD (about 20% of cases) but more often leads to severe vision loss or blindness.
senior captain Nicholas Keoghan, a three-year starter at center back, after missing nearly all of last season due to a torn ACL.
“He is our best defender this year and arguably the best defender we had the previous two years as well,” said Martinez. “It seems like this injury hasn’t stalled his growth and development. He’s back better than ever, he’s in better shape and stronger.”
See SOCCER, Page 10
IDEAS WORTH PRINTING
BELLEVILLE
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of size up there,” said Antab. “Our goal is for these guys to be physical, set the tone for the whole style that we want to play.”
ends. Love had established himself as one of the Ivy Division’s top pass-rushers, making seven sacks in four games before a season-ending back injury.
“He’s a talented player and he brings a different kind of physicality to our team when he’s out there on the field and he’s an emotional leader as well,” said Antab. “He brings a lot of energy to the team.”
Jadiere Rivera are the starters at corner with Sean and Jailen Sharpe at the safety spots. Senior Jahni Wooten is also set to make an impact in the secondary as the season progresses.
The special teams is set to potentially get a big boost as soccer star Uriah Vergara has come out for football and is set to be the Bucs’ kicker.
Senior Devin Westfield (6-1, 205) is a returning starter at left tackle. Lining up next to him at left guard is Victor Adams, who started at right tackle last year. Keith Greeley is a returning starter at center, while Joshua Workman is back at right guard.Bryce Phillips, a 6-6, 265-pound junior, takes over as the right tackle.
Senior Sergio Boza and sophomore Jahviel Rodriguez bring added depth to the line. On the defensive side of the ball, Greeley and Adams are set to start at tackle, while Conway and Love are the
Boza and Nathaniel Anabwani will also see snaps on the defensive line.
McDaniel starts at inside linebacker, while Morton can start either at inside or outside LB. At the other outside linebacker spot is wrestling standout Lorenzo Tiankee, who plays much bigger than his listed weight of 130 pounds. Tiankee will also move into the slot when Belleville shifts into passing down situations.
Jaden Westfield and
“He’s been doing great for us so far,” Antab said of Vergara, who scored 18 goals last season. “It’s definitely something that we’re excited about. We feel like anytime we get down near the red zone, we got a good chance to put up some points.
Armstrong is the punter while the Sharpe brothers are the likely kick returners.
Belleville opens the season at home against Ferris on Friday, Sept. 5 before going on the road to North Bergen six days later.
The Observer’s correction policy
The Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online.
SOCCER
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Senior Adam Janosek will start at the other center back position, while on the outside, sophomore Tyler Hacket is set to start on the left side and senior Mo Cheikhali is set to start on the right side after playing midfield last year.
Freshmen Josiah Guerrero, Owen Alvarez and Brandon Leon are all likely to see time on the backline as reserves as well as senior Jayden Guevara and junior Finley Hughes.
Junior captain Julien San-
tos is a three-year starter as the holding center midfielder with fellow junior captain Felix Medina returning at center midfield. Aleksander Dabrowski is set to start at the other center-mid spot in the Vikings’ 4-5-1 formation.
Senior Jonny Miranda, a three-year varsity player, is set to start on the left side, while senior Dylan Santos will be on the right.
Junior Nicolas Salazar and sophomores Jacob Giaquinto and Valentino Cruz are also vying for time in the midfield with Guerrero also potentially moving up from the back at times.
The graduation of Nico Stanzione, North Arlington’s
career scoring leader with 73 goals, has left a massive hole at the top of the Vikings’ attack. Junior Matthew Francisco, a backup last year, is currently set to start at the nine, with freshman Youssef Karim also set for meaningful minutes up top.
“There’s not just one guy we’re relying on,” said Martinez. “It’s really going to be a team effort in the attack this year.”
North Arlington opens the season on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at Manchester Regional, followed by home games against Hawthorne Christian on the 5th and Lyndhurst on the 9th before traveling to Harrison on Sept. 11.
SENIOR LIVING
How to have a healthy liver: 5 tips for seniors
Maintaining a healthy liver is essential for overall well-being, especially for seniors who may face increased risks due to aging. Here are five crucial tips to support your liver health:
1. Eat a balanced diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can aid liver function. Avoid eating processed foods, saturated fats and sugars.
2. Stay hydrated. Drinking water and plenty of fluids throughout the day helps flush
toxins from the body and support liver function.
3. Limit alcohol intake. Stick to recommended alcohol limits or consider abstaining altogether, especially if you have underlying liver issues or are taking medications that interact with alcohol.
4. Get regular exercise. Engaging in regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of fatty liver disease. Aim for a combination of aerobic
exercise, strength training and flexibility exercises.
Retirement isn’t just the end of a working life — it also brings a new reality for many people: an abundance of free time. Are you looking for a way to keep busy while doing something useful? Here are three advantages of volunteering in retirement.
1. Improve your physical and mental health
Volunteering often involves physical activity, which can help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the same way as playing sports. It’s also a great way to reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of depression.
2. Feel useful
Retirement can leave you feeling unproductive, which is perfectly normal when you’re going through a change. Volunteering with an organization that aligns with your values will give you meaningful work and a sense of purpose.
Please note: There are no obituaries in this week’s edition.
tions, as some can have adverse
5. Monitor your medications. Be cautious with medications, as some can have adverse effects on the liver. Always follow prescribed dosages and consult a healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement.
Take these proactive steps to
3 benefits of volunteering in retirement
Take these proactive steps to support your liver health and overall well-being as you age.
Mulligan Funeral Home
331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison
3. Meet new people Isolation and loneliness are genuine issues for seniors. Volunteering is an excellent way to meet people who share your interests and build new friendships.
Retirement is a unique stage in life, and volunteering is a great way to make the most of it. Contact volunteer or community organizations in your area to find volunteering opportunities.
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
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.
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OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
Seen here with Liegel (right) are, from left,
GM Mark Wallace, Nu-Way Vice President Kate Wallace and Kearny Mayor Carol Jean
Continued from Page 2
valiant fight against cancer. That night, the Red Bulls take on New York City Football Club. Visit www.gofevo.com/event/ Frankmcallister2025 for tickets and more information.
Kearny Project Graduation hosting casino bus trip in the fall Kearny Project Graduation 2026 hosts a bus trip fundraiser to Wind Creek Casino Nov. 30. The cost is $45 with a $25 casino play return. A bus leaves from Kearny Bank, Kearny Avenue, at 9 a.m. that day and will return home at 7 p.m. (Please do not part in the bank’s lot.) To pay, visit $kearnyprojectgrad on Cashapp, @kearny-projectgrad on Venmo or mail checks to KHS Project Grad, Kearny High School, 336 Devon St., Kearny, N.J. 07032.
North Arlington residents: Get help paying for food
The North Arlington Health Department hosts a presentation for residents to learn how to apply for and receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits — from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Health Department, 10 Beaver Ave., on Sept. 18. Appointments may be made by calling (201) 991-6060, ext. 123. To make the application quicker, be prepared to present proof of income, proof of address, costs of rent and utilities, child- or adult-care expenses and medical expenses for those 60 and older or for those with a disability.
There is no fee to apply. If one is ever asked to pay to apply for such benefits, it is likely a scam.
Salvation Army of Kearny hosting open gyms with Tom Fraser
The Salvation Army of greater Kearny, 28 Beech St., hosts open gyms Tuesday and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. for kids aged 10 to 17. Games will be under the supervision of the immortal Tom Fraser, retired Lincoln School counselor and coach and long-time director of the Presbyterian Boys & Girls Club.
EXXON
Continued from Page 1
chandise, including cigarettes, register money and various other items.
It all allegedly amounted to thousands of dollars in proceeds.
Meanwhile, police were investigating case as the burglaries continued and as they were developing Coloman as the suspect using increased surveillance.
Then, a fifth burglary occurred Aug. 13 and Coloman
OP-ED
Continued from Page 6
are helpful for children. Sometimes, a long drive in the van might be an “electronic-free” time while other times, devices may be allowed. Some evenings will create space for children to spend time on their devices while others will be a game night with all participating. Routines are very helpful, but so are times of spontaneity. I would recommend that you are intentional. Remember, you are the parent. God has, and will, equip you with what you need to do what is best for your children. You do not need to let the culture or your child’s peers dictate what course is best. Phones and other devices can be very useful, if handled properly and with measures in place. They are not pacifiers and they are certainly not a replacement for real human interaction. May the Lord give all of us parents wisdom as we navigate parenting our children through the digital age.
Damien Garofalo is the pastor of Risen Savior Church in North Arlington. He lives in Kearny with his wife and 5 children.
was finally caught exiting the Exxon as Lt. Jay Ward and Officer Renzo Sosa were surveilling the property. When taken into custody, Coloman reportedly had narcotics paraphernalia and 13 debit/credit cards that belonged to 13 different people, typically proceeds of vehicle burglaries and wallet thefts.
Police also determined Coloman was wanted by the Newark Police Department for criminal mischief, but Newark gave him a new court date without taking him into custody.
That day, Coloman was charged with burglary, theft,
criminal mischief, credit card theft and possession of drug paraphernalia and was sent to the Hudson County Jail in South Kearny. However, as is almost always standard practice these days thanks to bail reform, Coloman was released.
To absolutely no one’s surprise, two days after being arrested (and then sprung), Coloman was at it again — at the very same Exxon.
On Aug. 15, he went right back and burgled station, but he was again caught — by Officers Montero, Witt, Collins, Rivera and DeJesus.
This time, Gontarczuk says, Coloman had crack cocaine on his person and was charged with burglary, drug possession, drug paraphernalia, criminal mischief and theft of proceeds from within the business.
Once again, he was sent to the Hudson County Jail — but this time, he was remanded to await trial — for now.
And Shahzad, meanwhile, can finally breathe a sigh of relief.
COLOMAN/SURVEILLANCE
Observer Editor Kevin A. Canessa Jr. may be reached at kc@ theobserver.com. Follow him on Facebook & Twitter @kevincanessa.
