e-Newspaper for Dec. 24, 2025

Wednesday, December 24, 2025  www.TheObserver.com  Volume CXXXVIII, Issue No. 33 w

UNDER THE COVER Man killed after he’s shot in back by man with bow & arrow; it leads to tense standoff & fire before suspect’s arrested Page 2-3

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

MAN SHOT DEAD BY BOW & ARROW IN A

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

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suspect is in custody after allegedly shooting a bow & arrow into a man’s back and killing him — and then going on to set a home on fire at and near 20 Kearny Ave., Kearny, on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025.

Oscar Feijoo, 44, of Kearny, has been charged with murder, aggravated arson and numerous weapons offenses following a psychiatric evaluation, Hudson Prosecutor Wayne Mello said. Further charges are pending, he said.

The incident began at around 6:45 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, when the suspect is alleged to have shot the victim using a bow & arrow. A photo posted by a resident to social media shows the victim lying in front of a business at 14 Kearny Ave., with the arrow clearly visible in the man’s upper back, just below his shoulder blade on the left side. At the time, he was wearing a cap and backpack — blood was not visible near the wound site. Several onlookers could be seen in the image standing near the man, with one apparently taking cell phone video. No one appeared to be rendering any kind of assistance to the victim.

Kearny police were immediately called to the scene, and later, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office and the Hudson County Re-

gional SWAT team were called as well. A shelter in place was called for resident of Kearny Avenue between Johnston and Woodland avenues.

Mello identified the victim as Pablo Criollo, 45, of Harrison, who was transported to Newark University Hospital, where he was pronounced.

While the suspect had barricaded himself inside a Kearny Avenue home, at around 5:30 a.m., he allegedly set fire to the home.

Firefighters, who were already on standby a block away at Kearny and Woodland avenues, moved down the block to battle what became a three-alarm blaze while SWAT team members could be seen standing by in case the suspect came outside.

SWAT members reportedly instructed firefighters on the best way to fight the fire knowing the suspect was still inside the burning home.

Ultimately, after the fire was declared under control, the suspect surrendered Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in the 1 p.m. hour.

All told, the incident lasted around 18 extremely tense hours in the bitter cold. Investigators from the HCPO and Kearny FD remained on the scene to begin the investigative process after the all-clear.

Continued on the next page

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

KEARNY; SUSPECT NABBED AFTER FIRE home safely to their families.

“We would also like to sincerely thank our mutual aid partners from Harrison, Belleville, Jersey City and North Arlington for their outstanding assistance and commitment while operating under extremely stressful and dangerous conditions. As union leadership,

Continued from previous page

Several members of the Kearny Town Council, including Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, Marytrine DeCastro (who lives near the scene), Jose Rodrigues, Fred Esteves and Jerry Ficeto were on-site, helping residents and showing support to displaced neighbors, first responders and others.

Both Doyle and Ficeto offered well-deserved praise for how the nearby community — and first responders — banded together so quickly.

“Closer to God Evangelical Presbyterian Church had a planned lunch for after their services Sunday and they canceled it so the displaced residents and first responders could have a warm place to stay, food to eat and be comforted by friends and neighbors during an incredibly difficult situation,” Doyle said. “I think about Chief (Scott) Macfie who was on the scene for around 18 hours, and then Chief (Joseph) Mastandrea, who directed the fire scene once the fire broke out — and all who were involved — and it is just another example of how during difficult times, Kearny always bands together. On a terribly tragic day, I am so grateful to everyone involved. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family.”

Ficeto, the chairman of the town’s Police Committee, fully agreed with Doyle.

“It’s a great honor to be able to work with our first responders,” Ficeto said. “This was an extremely difficult day for everyone involved — from the shooting, to the fire to the aftermath — but I

we especially commend and thank our members who were first on scene.

“They operated in what was undoubtedly one of the most dangerous situations many will encounter in their careers. Their professionalism, courage and exemplary performance ensured

that the fire was contained without loss of life or further additional damage to personal property.

We are proud of the dedication shown by all involved and remain grateful for the continued commitment to protecting the residents of Kearny.”

HCPO

Feijoo: Charged with murder

could not be more proud of the first responders who dealt with brutal conditions, not knowing where the suspect was, and so much more adversity. I thank each and every man and woman who put their lives on the line for our community.”

Finally, Edmund McKeown, the president of the Kearny FMBA 18/218, was among the first firefighters to arrive at the blaze.

“On behalf of our fire union, we wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family affected by the horrifying incident that occurred yesterday. Our thoughts remain with them during this incredibly difficult time,” McKeown said. “Regarding the serious incident later that evening — one that is typically only read about in training or mock scenarios — we wish to express our utmost appreciation to the Kearny Police Department and the Hudson County Regional SWAT Team.

Their professionalism, coordination, and decisive actions ensured the safety of all first responders operating on scene and went above and beyond to make certain that everyone was able to return

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Six charged, five arrested following September Wawa stabbing

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

T

kc@theobserver.com

he Kearny Police Department’s Detective Bureau has charged six individuals in connection with a stabbing that occurred during a large altercation at the Wawa at 150 Harrison Ave. in the early morning hours of Sept. 9, 2025, Det. Sgt. John Fabula said. All six men are from Newark.

According to Fabula: That day, at approximately 2 a.m., officers responded to a report of a fight involving an estimated eight to 10 people. The incident was determined to be a retaliatory confrontation stemming from a dispute earlier the same evening.

An 18-year-old man from Harrison sustained more than five stab wounds and was transported to University Hospital for treatment.

Many of those involved were known to each other and there was no other danger to the general public.

Following an extensive investigation involving the review of physical and digital evidence and numerous interviews, detectives

POLICE BEAT identified six suspects and secured arrest warrants for all of them.

Five individuals including Lucca Melo, Exequiel Aguilar-Argueta, Junior Urquilla, Marvin Martinez and Orlando Santana have now been arrested.

Melo was charged with aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and unlawful possession of a weapon.

Aguilar-Argueta, Urquilla, Marvin Martinez and Santana were charged with aggravated assault and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault.

One remaining suspect, David Martinez, remains at large.

He is wanted on charges of aggravated assault and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault.

Anyone with information relevant to this incident is asked to contact Det. Matos of the Kearny Police Department Detective Bureau at (201) 998-1313, ext. 2837.

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While it looks like Santa might have taken some part-time work at the Midland Avenue, Kearny, Post Office, it was actually worker Jimmy Odar who was dressed as Santa in the days leading up to Christmas. The employees were celebrating the upcoming holiday.

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

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Merry Christmas & Happy Healthy New Year

Harrison Strong!

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

NEWS BRIEFS Deadline approaching to nominate to Sports Hall The deadline to submit nominations for the 2026 Hudson County Sports Hall of Fame is Jan. 31, 2026.

Founded in 1991, the Hall of Fame honors Hudson County

athletes who have dedicated countless hours to perfecting their athletic skills and have gone on to compete at the highest levels, including the Olympic Trials, Boxing World Championships, the National Football League and the National Basketball Associ-

ation.

The Hall of Fame Induction ceremony occurs every two years, with the next event scheduled for fall 2026.

Residents may submit nominations at hudsoncountysportshalloffame.org/nomina-

I wish all Kearny residents and the community

Happy Holidays Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

tion-application.

The 2024 class included men’s college basketball coaches Danny and Bobby Hurley Jr. and former NFL player Kenny Britt.

Nominees must have a minimum of two years of athletic experience in Hudson County.

One of the following documents is requested for each accomplishment: photocopies of newspaper articles, certificates, yearbooks, annual awards, dinner programs or congratulatory letters.

“Our athletes inspire us all.

From the fields and courts of Hudson County to the world stage, their dedication brings our communities together. We encourage residents to submit nominations for the Hudson County Sports Hall of Fame by January 31, 2025 for themselves, family members, friends, or coaches and help celebrate the incredible achievements happening right here at home,” Hudson County Executive Craig Guy said.

Kitchen takes place every Saturday but first of month The Community Care Kitchen serves hot sit-down or take-out meals every Saturday but the first Saturday of the month at Vincent United Methodist Church, 100 Vincent Place, Nutley, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. People from Vincent, Grace, Holy Trinity, St. Mary’s and Our Lady of Mount Carmel churches partner to provide a meal for those in need, which might be chicken or beef or pasta with sides and vegetables. Everyone in need is welcome to come by the kitchen, including families and seniors.

Please bring a bag if you are looking to get a take-out meal.

Carol Jean Doyle Mayor, Town of Kearny

DEADLINES In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

 Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday  Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday

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

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 Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday  Help Wanted: Noon, Monday — all ads must

be sent to classified@theobserver.com.

Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster

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

Anyone who would like to make a contribution to help program may contact the Vincent Church office or visit the “Giving” tab at www.vincentumc.org.

Care Pantry available at Vincent United Methodist Church Vincent United Methodist Church, 100 Vincent Place, Nutley, provides a care pantry the first Monday of every month from 4 to 6 p.m., for those with demonstrated need. At this time, the pantry is low on dish detergent, laundry detergent, household cleaners, paper towels and shampoo and conditioners.

Anyone who would like to donate items or make a monetary contribution may do so Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Vincent Church Office, or by visiting the “Giving” tab at www. vincentumc.org.

Attend vaping-awareness presentation at NAPL The Bergen County Department of Health Service will host a presentation on how vaping impacts a local community Jan. 6, at 6 p.m. at the North Arlington Public Library, 210 Ride Road.

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 and now Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. for kids aged 12 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.

The Observer on Social Media FACEBOOK.COM/THEOBSERVERNEWSPAPER X.COM/THEOBSERVERNJ INSTAGRAM.COM/THEOBSERVERNEWSPAPER YOUTUBE.COM/THEOBSERVERNJ Jason Bernstein Kimberley Pezzolla jason@theobserver.com kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sports Writer Sales/Classifieds

SPORTS & HEALTH

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

AIMING FOR A TITLE

By Jason Bernstein

T

jason@theobserver.com

he basketball season is only a week old, but Lyndhurst has already seen its depth challenged in a significant way, with three projected rotation players currently sidelined by injury.

But despite those losses and an incredibly difficult early schedule, the Golden Bears and veteran head coach Perrin Mosca have embraced the challenge.

Through it all, Lyndhurst is off to a 1-1 start, losing a tight opener against Dwight-Englewood before beating rival Rutherford on Friday.

“This is crazy. Coming into the preseason, everyone was good and then the scrimmage against North Arlington is when the injury bug hit us,” Mosca said. “I thought it was going to be a deep team, but we have to go with a little less right now. But it’s good.

These guys are getting great game action and pressure situations early, which you can’t beat.”

No one has taken advantage of a newfound opportunity more than forward Sam Ijeh. The 6-foot-5 senior, entered the starting lineup due to a preseason injury to Daniel Bojilov, and has responded by posting 14 points and 16 rebounds against Dwight-Englewood and seven points with 11 rebounds vs. Rutherford.

“It’s been great to see him work and in these two games, he was huge for us,” said Mosca. “Not many teams are going to have a kid that size going against us, so we’re pretty lucky to have that.”

While it remains to be seen if Ijeh and the 6-foot-5 Bojilov will be paired together in the front court, the duo brings an added dynamic to a lineup that already features one of the best guard trios in the NJIC in senior

Johnny Chaname and sophomores Avery Cano and Filoteo Mosca.

Chaname, who averaged 21.1 points and 5.2 assists per game a season ago, has continued to develop his all-around game.

“He definitely knows that he has to get everyone involved and he knows that when the time comes, that he’s there to take us home in these games,” Perrin Mosca said.

“He’s got that mindset. He likes getting assists, he likes playing defense.”

After a rare off-shooting night vs Rutherford, Chaname is averaging 14.0 points per game this season.

Early on, the leading scorer has been Cano at 19.0 per game. The 6-foot-1 combo guard, who is also averaging 7.5 rebounds per game, while still working his way into basketball shape after a brilliant football season.

“His athletic ability is second to none,” said Perrin Mosca. “He’s making up for (not playing basketball since the summer) with that athletic ability.”

Filoteo Mosca, Perrin’s son, is the third member of Lyndhurst’s “Big Three.” The younger Mosca, a high-level outside shooter, has grown to 6-foot-3, while putting on muscle, which has proven essential as he’s had to play against opposing forwards more early on this season thanks to the injuries to Bojilov and fellow forwards Liony Lopez and Airston Nishevci.

“He’s really worked in the offseason, put some weight on and he grew a couple inches,” Perrin Mosca said of Filoteo, who is averaging 12.0 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. “He’s ready to step up wherever we need him on the court.”

Julian Cruz, a standout perimeter defender, has filled in as a starter early on

See LYNDHURST, Page 10

Photos by Jason Bernstein Will Dalton, Inset: Angelo Albanese

Rejoice.

Seasons Greetings From the Entire Staff

James J. Capobianco, President

7

8 Nutley girls basketball shows growth during 1-1 start The Observer n www.theobserver.com

By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

With four underclassmen and a junior in its starting lineup, Nutley’s girls basketball team has been left with little choice, but to grow up fast since the start of the preseason.

Fortunately for the Maroon Raiders and head coach Kara McNish, there has already been a lot of improvement seen since that first scrimmage on Dec. 8.

Proof of that development was on display this past Saturday when Nutley defeated Cedar Grove, 44-27, to improve to 1-1 on the young season.

“So from the first scrimmage to (Saturday), definitely huge strides (have been made),” said

McNish, who begins her third season as head coach. “We still have stuff to work on, but I keep reminding myself that comes with having a younger team. But I told them after the game yesterday, from Tuesday to Saturday, it was a marked difference.”

Junior Kaitlyn Nellegar has led the way early on for Nutley, posting back-to-back double-doubles. Through two games the 5-foot-8 forward has 29 points, 28 rebounds, eight steals and six blocks.

As impressive as those numbers look, McNish, herself a former college forward, knows there’s a higher level to Nellegar’s game that has yet to be reached.

“The funny part is that she

hasn’t even played that great,” McNish said. “That was my point to her that, ‘you’ve had two double-doubles and you haven’t even

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Even with both gone, Nutley and Nellegar have had a strong 1-2 combination at forward, albeit in a different way this year, as sophomore Jiana Maldonado has moved over from guard.

Despite standing just 5-foot-6, Maldonado, a starter last season, had a breakout game against Cedar Grove with 18 points, six rebounds and four assists.

“She’s a guard, but we’ve been playing her underneath in our zone because she’s a pretty good rebounder,” said McNish about Maldonado, who also plays AAU Photo by Jason Bernstein with Nellegar in the offseason.

“She’s super athletic, has a nose played to your fullest potential.’” for the ball and sees the floor Last year, Nellegar, who led well.” the team in points (10.7 per While Nutley is blessed with game) and rebounds (13.9 per experience in the front court, the game) was almost always on the same can’t be said in the backcourt with a second big in Isabel See BASKETBALL, Page 10 Riccardi or Gianna Albanese.

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Nutley native Hut selected by Red Bulls in MLS SuperDraft

By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

Growing up, Nutley native Tomas Hut spent countless hours at the New York Red Bulls’ facilities as part of the club’s Regional Development School program for youth soccer players.

For that reason it’s only appropriate that Hut’s soccer career will continue in the area so instrumental in his early development.

On Thursday, the Red Bulls selected Hut with the 21st pick in the annual MLS SuperDraft.

Hut, a star goalkeeper at Seton Hall Hall Prep and later Army and Syracuse University called it a “full circle” moment in his career.

“I’ve been around the facility my whole life,” said Hut, who first started participating

in camps with the Red Bulls at age 9. “I did their development camps as a kid. I was there over the summer training with them as well. So everything’s really come full circle and it’s super exciting to start my professional career, kind of where it all started when I was a kid.”

Hut knew there was at least some pre-draft interest from the Red Bulls, but was unsure of what his future held, especially after the Red Bulls decided to trade down in the SuperDraft from pick 12 to 21 that morning.

“I knew they had interest.

They only had one draft pick so I had my fingers crossed for that one,” Hut said. “When they traded down to 21, I got a little nervous.

“When I got the call, my family was all talking about other stuff.

They didn’t even realize I was on the phone (with the Red Bulls) and then everything kind of settled in. I’m super excited, super happy and grateful that I’m staying home.”

Hut began his soccer career as a striker, until his club team as a youngster, NJ Stallions, was in desperate need of a keeper for one of its tournaments and he volunteered to play the position.

One day and a tournament

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Hut played his high school soccer at Seton Hall Prep, when in 2019 as a junior, he made 96 saves to help lead the Pirates to a 22-1-1 record and a Non-Public A championship. Hut had 20 shutouts, including in the state final when he made seven saves in Seton Hall Prep’s 1-0 overtime win over St. Augustine.

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“Our goalie, I think he got hurt or couldn’t make it to a tournament and when he didn’t show up, I was like, ‘Yeah, I’ll play,’” Hut said. “We actually ended up winning that tournament.

And after that, I walked into the coach’s office the next day and was like ‘Hey, can I play goalie for us instead?’ And the coach said, ‘sure, let’s do it.’”

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LYNDHURST Continued from Page 7 for Lyndhurst. Two other players seeing major minutes early have been junior forward Anthony Ricigliano and sophomore guard Josh Lorenzo. Another sophomore, Esai Fernandez, gives Lyndhurst another shooter off the

bench.

The schedule doesn’t ease up for Lyndhurst. After a game against Hawthorne on Dec. 22, the Bears head to the Jack Stone Shootout at St. Mary’s of Rutherford, where it will face Morristown-Beard in the first round on Dec. 27.

After the start of the new year, independent games against St. Mary’s, Old Tappan, Dickinson, Columbia and

Tenafly await.

“The expectation and our goals are to win our league, win a couple of games in the (Bergen County Jamboree) because I think we’re good enough to do that. And then I think we should be going pretty far in the states,” Perrin Mosca said. “That’s our goal and that’s what we expect by the end of the year.

These kids want it.”

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

BASKETBALL Continued from Page 8 court as the Raiders welcome three new starters.

Sophomores Madison Heal and Ellie Oldak, both coming off of strong soccer seasons, are both starting guards after coming off the bench as freshmen last winter. At the point is freshman Sydney Hanly.

“Sydney has kind of taken over the point position as she is a stronger ball handler with both hands,” McNish said about Hanly, who scored eight points against Cedar Grove. “She’s tiny, but she does not let the pressure get to her. She doesn’t rush through things.”

Senior Makayla Albert is the top player off the bench and has the versatility to play virtually

any position on the floor. Freshman Emma Rodriguez gives Nutley another forward and source of rebounds off the bench as well. Senior guard Mariah Franqui has also seen minutes early on.

Freshmen guards Lilianna Giannone and Cayden Ortega, as well as sophomore forward Abby Leahy and senior forward Sydney Tramontana bring additional depth and could see bigger roles as the season progresses.

Nutley returns to action on Saturday, Dec. 27 in the Bergenfield Holiday Festival where it will play host Bergenfield. The Raiders will also play Cliffside Park and Dwight- Morrow in the three-day event.

Nutley will resume play in the Super Essex Conference Colonial Division on Jan. 6 at East Orange.

him.”

After graduating from Seton Hall Prep, Hut went on to play Continued from Page 9 at Army-West Point, where in 17 appearances over two seasons season, Hut was named All(2021-2022), he had 44 saves State, Second Team as a senior. and five shutouts.

Hut posted seven shutouts in Hut then transferred to 10 games to help lead Seton Syracuse and after sitting out Hall Prep to a 7-1-2 record and a the 2023 season, played his final regional championship. two seasons for the Orange.

“He was great for us. He This season at Syracuse, Hut had a presence in the box and started all 20 games for the Orwe were so confident playing ange, making 76 saves with nine with him in net,” said longtime shutouts.

Seton Hall Prep head coach In just two years at Syracuse, Marty Berman. “Anytime people Hut graduated within the top served the ball in the box, he 10 in program history in goals just had a way of rising above against average (1.30), wins (16) the crowd. The game felt like it and solo shutouts (12). was in complete control with

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The Dining Directory

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507 Frank Rodgers Blvd N. • Harrison

(973) 482-4863 kdavieesq@gmail.com

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Adan H. Cueva With deep sorrow, yet with our faith firmly placed in God, we announce the passing of Adan H. Cueva, who was called home to the Lord Dec. 16, 2025.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny.

Mass was celebrated at St. Cecilia Church, Kearny. Cremation was private.

Adan was born March 4, 1954, in Arequipa, Peru, a place he always carried in his heart. From a young age, his life was shaped by values of discipline, respect and dedication, which were reflected in his service to the Peruvian Marines, an institution he served with pride and honor.

In 1988, Adan immigrated to the United States in search of a better future for his family.

Through hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance, he built a life grounded in honest work, love for his family and faith in God. A devoted Catholic, Adan was an active member for over 40 years of the Hermandad del Señor de los Milagros, a community that held a deeply meaningful place in his spiritual life and to which he remained strongly

11

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

OBITUARIES

connected.

Above all, Adan was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, deeply committed to his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Elena; his daughter, Heidi, and her husband Guillermo; his son, Junior, and his wife Odalys; his cherished grandchildren, William and Valentina; and his loving niece, Ysabel.

Adan will also be remembered fondly for the love he shared with his loyal pets — Fido, Ozzie, Zoey and Toby — who brought him comfort and joy.

Those who knew Adan will remember him as a man of strong character, deep faith and a noble heart. His example of service, responsibility and love for his family will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

Though we grieve his passing, we find comfort in our faith, trusting Adan now rests in the eternal peace of the Lord.

May the Lord receive him in his glory, and may perpetual light shine.

17, 2025.

He was 65.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny.

Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, Dec. 23, at 9:45 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Private cremation will follow.

Jim was retired from Local 32, where he worked as an insulator.

He enjoyed his membership at SAL. Post 105 in Belleville.

Beloved husband of Mary Ann (nee Tague) and cherished son of Eileen and the late James Livingstone, he was also the loving father of Jimmy and Kimberly and the late Meghan Lynn Livingstone. Brother of Michael Livingstone and the late Kathy Caputo and Tom Livingstone, he is also survived by his grandchildren James, Cole and Everly, his mother-in-law Margaret Tague and loving nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, kindly con-

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

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

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

See OBITS, Page 23

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

Christmas

James J. Livingstone Jr. James J. Livingstone Jr., a lifelong Kearny resident, died Dec.

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

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(201) 991-3344 | (201) 991-1031 Steven R. Thiele, NJ Lic. No. 4077, Owner/Manager Philip H. Thiele, NJ Lic. No. 2383, Director

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Whatever the year has brought your way, we want you to know our family’s thoughts are with you.

12

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Merry Christmas Merry s& Christma ear wY Happy Ne

from aners e l C c i s s a l C ille Tpke. v e l l e B 4 7 3 Kearny 2939 7 9 9 ) 1 0 2 (

Happy Holi days

from your frie nds at The Thistle R estaurant 442 Valley B rook Ave. Lyndhurst (201) 935-00 04

mas t s i r h C Merry w Year e N y p p & Ha

Merry & as m t s i r h C ear Y w e N Happy readers of

e to all th rver e s b O e Th ilano M t t o b b A ency g A e c n a Insur -3333 3 3 9 ) 1 (20

from s & Sons n r u B .

J.W eating H & g n i Plumb 1-0331 9 9 ) 1 0 2 (

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

from Thiele-Reid Funeral Home 585 Belgrove Dr. Kearny (201) 991-3344

Merry Ch ristm to all our as Friends & Family Ma

y this year filled with be From all of joy! u FRANK’S G s at 325 Orien MC t Wa Lyndhurst y (201) 9397708

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

13

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Merry Christmas Merry s& Christma ear wY Happy Ne from ge Zach’s Gara y Ave. 790 Kearn Kearny 1872 8 2 4 ) 1 0 2 (

Happy Holi days

from the Mayor & Borough Cou ncil of the Borough of N orth Arlingto n

mas t s i r h C Merry

days, i l o H Happy stmas i r h C Merry Year w e N py ers & Hap m o t s u ur c to all o nds & friem

fro & Son G A J m fro uction . r t s n o C rny Ave a e K 1 77 Kearny 105 91-4 (201) 9

from itage m r A d e r f l Wi l Home a r e n u F ns & Wiggi elgrove Dr. 596 B ny Kear 1-0657 9 9 ) 1 0 2 (

Merry Christma Happy Ne s & w Year Dr. Joh n P. Branw ell 37 Seeley Ave. Kearny (201) 998 -9700

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

from Kearny Family Health Center Dr.Souha Hanna, DDS 65 Kearny Ave., Kearny (201) 997-7201

14

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Merry Christmas Merry as & Christm Year w Happy Ne

from at the Crew llision o C y n r a e K y Ave. 530 Kearn Kearny -0606 5 5 9 ) 1 0 (2

Merry Christmas & Happy & Healthy New Year

to all of our patients from all of us at DeLuca Vision Consultants 20 Park Ave., Lyndhurst (201) 896-0096

s& hristma C y r r e M ar y New Ye h t l a e H Happy,

Merry Christma Happy N s & ew Year

from Coalition n io t n e v re Kearny P king Toward a o ity W r Commun e e r F g Dru 7-0601 (201)99 ebook.com/ n s on fac Follow u eventioncoalitio r Kearnyp

Happy Holidays

from larm A e v i t c e f f E -0890 (201) 998

rms.com

ctiveala e f f e . w w w

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Angela C. Femino (201) 955-0080

from Sadowski A uto Care 586 Ridge Rd. North Arlin gton (201) 9988424

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

15

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Merry Christmas Merry as & Christm Year w Happy Ne

from y Inc. t l a e R d i M y Ave. n r a e K 2 7 5 Kearny 719 5 1 9 9 ) 1 (20

as & hristm C y r r e M ear y New Y h t l a e H Happy, from oalition

nC reventio gram/ P n e e T Kearny w us on Insta oalition Follo tionc npreven e e t y n r Kea

Merry Christma Happy N s & ew Year mas t s i r h C Merry New Year y & Happ f our

Merry & as m t s i r h C ear Y w e N Happyur friends,

to o omers t s u c & family om fr entistry D s e l i Sm Genuine Central Ave. 480 ity Jersey C 002 2-0 (201) 22

to all o rom rs f custome al Estate n Re Arlingto 91-0905 (201) 9

from Pathways t o Independe nce 60 Kingsla nd Ave. Kearny (201) 9976155

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from I Love Perfume 125 Kearny Ave. H Kearny (201) 246-0923

16

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Merry Christmas Merry as & Christm Year w Happy Noem

fr Esq. Ken Davie Center son Law d u H t s e W ounty Hudson C Year the Lawyer of ers Blvd N. Rodg 507 Frank rrison Ha -4863 (973) 482

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Presbyterian Boys & Girls Club (201) 991-6734

Merry Christm Happy N as & ew Year fr

mas t s i r h C Merry New Year y & Happ

Merry & as m t s i r Ch Year w e N y Happ from

race G e D n Joh ting a e H & g Plumbin iver Rd. 267 R ngton i l r A h t r No 7-8565 9 9 ) 1 0 (2

from J. Coco s a l o h c i N rny Ave. a e K 2 5 7 Kearny 0 5-310 (201) 95

X Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo Celeste & Lou Pandolfi

om CORK Wi ne & Spir its 99 Some rset St. Harrison (862) 255 -2001 Free Deli very in Decem ber

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

17

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Merry Christmas Merry & s a m t s i r Ch ar e Y w e N y Happ ds, family

n to our frie mers and custo from the family t i t e p p A Bone Ave. d n a l d i M 169 Kearny -2306 (201) 955

g you Wishin amily rf and you idays and ol Happy H d New Year a Blesse . Grilo

ina M Mayor D Borough k r a w e N East

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Pink Vision Associates 685 Kearny Ave. Kearny (201) 461-0020

Merry as & m t s i r h C ear Y w e N y Happ from earny K f o n w o The T n Recreatio nt Departme

Merry Christmas & Happy New Ye ar to everyone fro m The Greeks 461 Elm St. Kearny (201) 991-981 9

Merry C h & Happy ristmas New Yea r from Associate d To & Recove wing ry 27 Hamil LLC ton St Harrison .

18

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Merry Christmas Merry as & m t s i r h C ar e Y w e N y Happ

from staurant e R & r a B Pic-Nic t Ave. 224 Gran E. Newark -3646 1 8 4 ) 3 7 9 (

Merry s a Christm

from ancini M .

A h Fr. Josep CHS VF, K rch u h C s ’ n ephe Saint St

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

from the Mayor & Commissioners of the Township of Lyndhurst

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Keypoint Mortgage (201) 998-9050

ROB@KEYPOINTMORTGAGE.COM

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from La Fiamma 440 Harrison Ave. Harrison (973) 483-5455

Seasons Greetings & Happy New Year from Mulligan Funeral Home 331 Cleveland Ave. Harrison (973)481-4333

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

19

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Merry Christmas Merry as & Christm Year w Happy Ne ryone eve Wishing joy in peace & ar! e the new y

from n of Peace e e u Q e h s T Columbu f o s t h g i Kn ent Hall for R 606 -9 (201) 991

Merry & as Christmw Year e N y p p a H m fro Harrison man Council nett n e B y r r La

Merry Christmas & Happy Healthy New Year To our dearest customers

from Schuyler Savings Bank Kearny & Harrison

Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with Joy, Laughter & a Prosperous New Year from Platinum Kitchens 379 Ridge Rd. North Arlington (201) 998-8888

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Premier Care Associates 512 Kearny Ave. Suite B Kearny (201) 998-7474

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year From Brazilian Spices 141 Schuyler Ave. Kearny (201) 998-5050

20

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Merry Christmas Merry as Christm

from Mayor lham e M l e a h c Mi and the Belleville l ounci C p i h s n Tow

Happy ys a d i l o H

from Inc. g n i t r a Cali C n “The Ma an” C e h t h wit -5400 1 9 9 ) 1 (20

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from A1 Affordable Rubbish Removal & Landscaping (201) 998-1262

istmas r h C y r Mer Year w e N y p & Hap rom

Merry Christmas Happy Ne & w Year

from Moran Auto motive Towing, Inc .

24 Arlingto n Ave. Kearny “In God We Trust”

f toso Jr. n e V y n Man ANNY HANDIM y Kearn 1-7975 8 2 ) 1 0 (2

Merry Christmas with love to the Kearny Police & Fire departments for the incredible work all year round.

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Merry Christmas from all of us at

May your homes be warm, your hearts full, and your days wrapped in joy and peace.

Thank you for letting us be part of your community — we’re grateful for every reader, every story, every smile.

Here’s to a bright Christmas and an even brighter year ahead!

21

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

23

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m.

Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing.

Call (201) 991-1600 to place an ad.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

BELLEVILLE

HARRISON

KEARNY

LYNDHURST

NEWARK

BELLEVILLE Affordable 2nd floor 1 BR, LR, EIK $1500 + 1 months security. Included H/ HW. 1 Parking space.

Near Buses, stores & Parks. No smoking/ Pets Available 12/15 (973)699-4436 31W03

BELLEVILLE 16 Howard Place. off Washington Avenue. 1 BR. LR, Kitchen $1400 + 1.5 Months security. HT/ HW included. No Pets.

Near Family Dollar Store. Available Now (973) 801-5900 32W03

HARRISON 1st Floor 2 BR’s, Kitchen, LR, Bathroom. 1.5 months security, Utilities not included, Available Now (973)714-2368 or (201)463-6303 33W03

KEARNY Large 1st floor Freshly painted 4 BR’s, LR, EIK, 1 Bath acces to patio $2950 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965

LYNDHURST 3rd floor walk-up 2 BR’s, LR, Kitchen $1500 + 1 months security H/HW included Non-smoker Available January 1st (201)939-0184 31W03

BELLEVILLE Large 1 BR on 1st floor. LR, EIK. Hardwood floors, $1750 + 1.5 months security. First months rent $500 Off. H/HW Included.

Washer/ Dryer in basement. No Smoking. Walk to Trans.

Pets allowed $500 Pet fee Available Now (561)716-7628 31W03

BELLEVILLE 1 Bedroom located on Garden Avenue, lower level, laundry facilities on site, 1 parking space, no pets, no smoking, available immediately, $1,499.00 per month, 1 1/2 month security.

Call Joanne 973-6993146 32W03

31W03

KEARNY E. NEWARK E.NEWARK Border of Harrison 1st Floor 1 BR, 1 Bath, LR, Kitchen w/ Granit top, cerimic tile throughout apartment $1300 + 1.5 months security, Utilities included except Electricity No Pets, Available Now (732)319-4704 33W03

KEARNY 1st Floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK $2050 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate, credit required No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)998-0509 32W03

KEARNY 1st floor 3 BR’s, 1 bath, LR, DR & Kitchen $2800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate Parking for 1 car, No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (973)868-3378 31W03

KEARNY 3rd floor 1 BR, LR, EIK, $1300 + 1 months security, H/ HW included No Pets/ Smoking Available January 1st (201)921-3644 32W03

The Observer office will be closed Thursday and Friday, Dec. 1 and 2, 2026, in observance of New Year’s Day. Our office will close at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 31.

We will reopen at 10 a.m., Monday, Jan 5.

KEARNY 6 family home, 2nd fl. 2 BR, $1,650 + 1 1/2 months security. Utilities separate. No pets. No Smoking Avl. Now (201) 9169460 or (973)905-0508 31W03

KEARNY 1st floor, 1 BR, Big LR with furniture.

D.R./Kitchen $1800 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Central Air. Closed to stores.

No Pets/Smoking.

Available January 1st (201)679-3254 31W03

KEARNY 2nd floor. 3 Bedroom, 1 bath, EIK, LR. Hardwood floors & Ceramic floors, Backyard use. No Pets/ Smoking. $1900 + 1.5 mth security. Utilities Separate. Available Now (973)668-8305 33W03

KEARNY 2nd floor.

2 BR. EIK. $2000 + 1 months security.

Utilities not included. No Pets/Smoking.

Available January 1st (201)719-3692 33W03

KEARNY 2nd Floor 3 br’s, $2300 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 33W03

N. ARLINGTON N.ARLINGTON 2 BR, EIK, LR Completely renovated Private entrance/deck, Washer/ dryer hookup, Attic storage, Off-street parking (additional fee) $2,200/ month + utilities 1-year lease 1½ months security deposit No pets / No smoking Credit report & employment verification required Available January 1st (201)7233415 31W03 N.ARLINGTON Spacious 2 bedroom H/H included. 1 month security. Rent is $2600.

Available January 1st (973)417-9962 33W03

N.ARLINGTON One bedroom 3 room apartment in an apartment complex.

Excellent location, near stores and transportation. $1875.00 per month, one month security. Heat and hot water provided.

Laundry on premises Storage in basement smoking and no pets.

Adults preferred.

Please call between 10:00am and 7:00pm: 201-997-2341 33W03

NEWARK Forest Hill area 1st Floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK Utilities Separate Street Parking available No Pets/Smoking Available Now (973)4933614 or (973)752-6877 31W03

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT

NUTLEY 1 Commercial parking Spaces available Up to 24 ft.

(201) 390-1729 33W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED Job Opening Building Subcode Official / Building Inspector Under direction of the Construction Official, has the subordinate administrative responsibility for administering the Building Subcode of the NJ State Uniform Construction Code, and inspects all buildings and construction projects to ensure that compliance with plans and specifications is achieved; does other related duties as needed.

Applicants must possess a valid license as an HHS Building Subcode Official issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, as well as a valid NJ driver’s license. Full job description can be found at https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/05048. htmSalary range $85,262.00 to $95,600.00.

Full-time position, 35 hours per week, with full benefits package.

Applications can be downloaded at https://www.kearnynj.org/jobopportunities/Applications and resumes must be submitted to the Personnel Department at 410 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032.

The Town of Kearny is an equal opportunity employer 31W03

HARRISON 3000 Sq ft Commercial building for lease or Partial (862)571-4823 33W03

GARAGE FOR RENT N.ARLINGTON 1 Car Garage for rent with remote, $210 + 1 month security call (973)517-1342

Office Work N Arlington Split shift 9am-1pm then 3-5pm Schedule interview appointments and office help.

Reliable trustworthy will be key-holder $18/H Call 201-247-8064 32W03

31W03

N.ARLINGTON No electricity $225.00/month 1-1/2 months security Call 201-723-3415

SERVICES OFFERED

32W03

HARRISON 2 Single Car garage for rent, 3 Parking spaces (862)571-4823 33W03

UNCONTESTED DIVORCE From $299 + Court cost.

BANKRUPTCY Chapter 7 only. $450.00 + Court cost. www.njdivorce299-nj.com dbankruim20@yahoo.com (973) 273-1325 27W09

22

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m.

Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing.

Call (201) 991-1600 to place an ad.

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Basements, f French drainage system. Black top driveways. Power washing.

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Kevin’s Professional Painting * Interior & Exterior * Plastering & Sheet-rocking *Carpentry and more.

Reasonable Prices Senior Discount Call (201) 565-6393 31W06

•Paint • Powerwash and more •Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002 30W52

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www.erickconstructioninc.net Free estimates • Fully insured

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FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts Lic. #13VH02536200 28W06

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love for his family. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Continued from Page 11 In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s sider a donation to Tunnel to Towers Research Hospital. in his memory.

OBITS

Richard F. Donato Richard F. Donato of Kearny died Dec. 17, 2025.

Visiting was at All Saints at Bethany Church, Belleville. A prayer service and funeral service were celebrated at the church. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Rich owned Arlington Jewelers in North Arlington and prior, he taught English at Queen of Peace High School, both in North Arlington.

Rich was the devoted and loving husband of Joan (nee Tavernese) and cherished his son the Rev. Rick Donato, who will officiate his dad’s funeral.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in his memory.

Antonio Garcia Antonio Garcia, 83, died peacefully at his home Dec. 17, 2025.

Visitation was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny.

Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Entombment was in Holy Cross Cemetery Mausoleum, North Arlington.

Antonio was born in Spain and moved to the United States in 1978 with his wife and children, where he built a life rooted in hard work and devotion to family. He was a retired painter who took great pride in his trade. In his free time, Antonio loved to go fishing, a pastime that brought him peace and enjoyment.

He was the beloved husband of Manuela Garcia and the loving father of Maribel Gonzalez (Francisco) and Antonio Garcia (Ana).

He was a dear brother to Francisco Garcia, Andres Garcia, and Manuela Alvarez. Antonio was also a devoted and cherished grandfather to Alejandra (Lucas), Vanesa, Victoria and Antonio.

Antonio will be remembered for his work ethic, strength and deep

Visiting will be Saturday, Dec. 27 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral Mass will be at Queen of Peace Church at 11 a.m. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Deborah Nalbach Nick is survived by his beloved Deborah Nalbach, 72, of Kearny, died at home Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, wife, Kathleen née Costello; his devoted son, Michael (Kimberly) surrounded by her family.

Burke, and his treasured grandVisiting was at the Armitage & daughters, Riley Burke and Regan Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny.

Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Burke. He was predeceased by his mother Marguerite Glynn Burke, faChurch, Kearny. Entombment was ther Nicholas Burke, brother James in Holy Cross Cemetery Mausoleum, North Arlington.

Burke, sister Margaret Quinn, sister Deborah was born and raised in Mary Fine and granddaughter Corey Jersey City. Soon after marrying her Lynn Burke. husband, Peter, she moved to Kearny Nick was born and raised in Hoboken. After graduating high school, to raise her young family. She could he proudly served in the U.S. Army. often be seen at Schuyler School Upon being honorably discharged, and at the Gunnel Oval, just being a he opted to follow in his father’s great mom to her children as they footsteps by joining the Hoboken grew up.

She worked at the Kearny Branch Fire Department before finding his true calling as a high school teacher.

Library for many years, welcoming For 31 years, Nick taught the patrons with her beautiful smile, youth of Hoboken the fundamentals always ready with a book recommendation. Deborah was an avid of photography, woodworking and baker. She especially liked baking printmaking. He also found time to at Christmas, preparing platters of continue his education by obtaining cookies for those she loved. Debotwo master’s degrees. rah’s greatest joy was her grandchilAfter retiring, he stayed busy dren and spending time with her by volunteering at Queen of Peace family. church in North Arlington, where Deborah was predeceased by her he worked alongside the Connors, parents, Joseph and Marjorie Celfriends who became family. auro. She is survived by her loving By his side for the last 66 years husband of 51 years, retired Jersey was his loyal and loving wife, Kay. City Deputy Police Chief Peter NalThey moved from Hoboken to bach; children, Elizabeth Kubowicz Kearny in the early ‘70s, where they and her husband, John; Peter and purchased their first home and his wife, Cristina; and Joseph and raised their son, Michael. Together, his wife Marcia; grandchildren, John Nick and Kay filled their later years Peter, Patrick, Juliana, Matthew, by making memories with their Olivia, Andrew and James; in-laws, cherished granddaughters, Corey, Elizabeth Hughes and her husband, Riley and Regan. “Pops” was the Raymond and Patrick Nalbach; and driver and “Gram” rode shotgun as her nieces, Colleen and Erin. they took the girls to school, the park In lieu of flowers, kindly consider and the zoo, among other favorite a donation to St. Stephen’s Church, spots. The time Nick took to create Kearny, in her memory. special moments with his loved ones has left an indelible imprint on their Nicholas James Burke lives.

Nicholas James Burke, 89 of In lieu of flowers, kindly consider North Arlington, died peacefully a donation to Dominican Republic with family by his side on Dec. Mission Team, 13 Faun Drive, Wallingford, Conn. 06492.

19,2025.

24

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

The deadline for print legal ads is at 2 p.m., every Thursday. For web, we can place daily Monday-Friday If you do not receive a written response from us within 24 hours, please call our office to confirm. Email: legals@theobserver.com Jaswanti NLN• 161 Mc Adoo Ave Jersey City NJ 07375 In the Matter of the Estate of RamJas Baldeo , deceased To: Zulaikha, Yusuff HUDSON COUNTY SURROGATE’S COURT YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT on Monday the 29 day of December 2025, at noon I shall apply to the Surrogate of the County of Hudson, at his office in Hudson County Administration Building, 595 Newark Avenue, 4th Floor, Room 407, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306, for the granting o f letters of administration to myself, or some other fit person, of the goods, chattels and credits of Ramjas Baldeo , deceased, late of Jersey city, in the County of Hudson and State of New Jersey, who died on or about the 17 day of 06, 2024 intestate .

If you have any objections in this matter, you may contact the Hudson County Surrogate, by notifying him, in writing of your objection, on or before 12|29/2025 Date: 12/05/2025: Jaswanti NLN 161 McAdoo Ave Jersey City, NY 07305 ($46.50 Newspaper 12/10/25,12/17/25 & 12/24/25)

quirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Specifically, the contractor, sub recipient or subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this contract. The contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 26 in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy as the recipient deems appropriate.

Take notice that EWR DISTRIBUTION has applied to the Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control for a Limited Wholesale License for the premises situated at O24, 35 O’Brien St, Kearny, NJ 07032 and salesroom situated at the SAME ADDRESS as the licensed premises. The premises are located within the ReadySpaces facility.

The name of the limited liability company is: EWR DISTRIBUTION. The names and residences of all members of the limited liability company are: Halashon Sianipar, residing at 890 S 16th St, Newark, NJ 07108 Billy Thompson, residing at 8 Lombardy St, Suite 113, Newark, NJ 07102 Jonathan Matic, residing at 177 N Main St, Apt Rear, Mount Wolf, PA 17347 Objections, if any, should be made immediately in writing to the Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control, P.O. Box 087, Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0087.

EWR Distribution 8 Lombardy St, Suite 113, Newark, NJ 07102. ($29.00 12/17/25 & 12/24/25)

Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Specifically, the contractor, sub recipient or subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this contract. The contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 26 in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy as the recipient deems appropriate.

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization.

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor, Division of Wage and hour Compliance at the time of bid.

The Department, in accordance with Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252 U.S.C., 49 C.F.R., Parts 21 and 23 issued pursuant to such Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will afford minority business enterprises full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not discriminate against any bidder on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap in the project award.

Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx. com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site.

Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express.

Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our various Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Phone: 973-601-6690 Phone: 856-486-6623 New Jersey Department of Transportation Division of Procurement Bureau of Construction Services 1035 Parkway Avenue PO Box 600 Trenton, NJ 08625 ($124.50 12/24/25, 12/31/25 & 0107/26)

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:735.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 1/13/26 downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Long-Life Pavement Marking Contract North, Cycle 1 (2026), Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Union and Warren (Including and North of Route 57) Counties Federal Project No: F00S(039) DP No: 26411

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:735.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 1/22/26 downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Long-Life Pavement Marking Contract South, Cycle 1 (2026), Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem Counties Federal Project No: F00S(041) DP No: 26413 Bidders are required to comply with the re-

LEGAL NOTICE-KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY NOTICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4, 20.5 et. seq.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4, 20.5 et. seq. the KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY shall pursue a “Fair and Open Process” in awarding contracts for positions set forth more fully below, and hereby solicit qualifications in the form of resumes and letter applications for the below stated positions of the KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY, which shall be submitted to the

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization.

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor, Division of Wage and hour Compliance at the time of bid.

The Department, in accordance with Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252 U.S.C., 49 C.F.R., Parts 21 and 23 issued pursuant to such Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will afford minority business enterprises full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not discriminate against any bidder on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap in the project award.

Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx. com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site.

Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express.

Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our various Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Phone: 973-601-6690 Phone: 856-486-6623 New Jersey Department of Transportation Division of Procurement Bureau of Construction Services 1035 Parkway Avenue PO Box 600 Trenton, NJ 08625 ($123.00 12/24/25, 12/31/25 & 0107/26)

Executive Director Assistant at 39 Central Avenue, Kearny, New Jersey 07032, with documentation showing qualifications and compliance with criteria set forth by the Authority and by State Statute. All qualifications shall be in compliance with criteria set forth by the Authority and by State Statute. All qualifications shall be submitted in a sealed envelope to the Executive Director Assistant to be received no later than 11:00 a.m. on January 19, 2026. Five (5) copies shall be submitted by said date and time. Interested parties may read the below criteria for the various positions prior to submission of qualifications. Professional services for the following positions are hereby requested: General Counsel-the Board Attorney acts as General Counsel to the KMUA and as such attends monthly meetings to report on legal activities; acts as counsel for agreements and contracts entered into by the Authority; handles any litigation in which the KMUA might become involved.

Consulting Engineer-acts as expert in engineering, design and construction of projects authorized or considered by the KMUA. Provides technical expertise in those areas and assists in budget planning and bid procurement and awarding as technical adviser.

Prepares annual rate study to recommend user rates and connection fees.

Auditor-financial advisor to the board, audits annual budget and reports to State authorities on Authority financial affairs, assisting executive staff in financial planning.

Bond Counsel-legal counsel to represent the authority in connection with Risk Manager-responsible for placing insurance coverage and responding to claims for employees, liability, vehicle and other risks as approved by the Authority.

KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY CRITIERIA FOR AWARD OF PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTS UNDER THE FAIR AND OPEN PROCESS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, for all applicants in positions set forth more fully in a notice of publication authorized by the KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY, Resolution 12-25-60 of December 10, 2025, for submission of qualifications that shall take into consideration the following factors, which will be weighed by the KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY as the basis of an award for professional services most advantageous to the Authority: Resume and letter application for professional position including all documentation that provides the following for evaluation by the Authority: Experience and reputation in the field for the position sought.

Experience and knowledge of the Town of Kearny and the Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority and the subject matter addressed in the contract.

Availability to accommodate any required meeting of

the KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY Compensation proposal. Proposals should be on a time and material basis with either hourly or flat rates for services.

Engineering firms should submit proposals consistent with ASCE standard labor categories.

Other factors deemed to be in the best interest of KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY PROPOSAL DOCUMENT: There is no formal proposal document, but the proposal shall be submitted on the letterhead of the proposing party with a certification of the truthfulness and accuracy of the submission. Proposals should be addressed to the Executive Director Assistant, KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY, 39 Central Avenue, Kearny, New Jersey 07032 and must be enclosed in a sealed envelope bearing the name and address of the proposing party. All proposal documents must be received by 11am on Monday, January 19, 2026, delays due to inclement weather or inability of delivery services to deliver by that time shall not be cause to relax the deadline for submission.

CERTIFICATION: Each proposal shall also contain a certification that the proposing party: (a) Agrees to comply fully with the terms, provisions and the conditions NJAC 17:27-1 et seq. (b) Knows of no conflict raised by the proposed retention. (c) Has a professional malpractice insurance policy in effect in the amount of one million dollars with a company authorized by the Department of Insurance to do business in New Jersey. The proposing party is obligated to notify the KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY, if it receives notice of any proposed termination during the term of any Agreement. It shall state an acknowledgment that if the coverage of that policy is terminated during the term of any Agreement, the agreement shall terminate automatically upon termination of such insurance coverage.

So adopted and memorialized by Order of the KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY, on this 15th day of December, 2025.

KEARNY MUNICIPAL UTILITIES AUTHORITY Zayda Balcazar-Board Secretary/Executive Director Assistant ($560.00 12/24/25,12/31/25, 01/07/26 & 01/14/26) TOWN OF KEARNY PUBLIC NOTICE In accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, P.L. 1975, c. 231, please be advised that the annual Reorganization Meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Town of Kearny will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chamber, 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, New Jersey. Formal action will be taken.

Patricia Carpenter Town Clerk ($10.00)

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

LPD: Man with drug residue, knife probably shouldn’t have fallen asleep outside storage unit; it led to his arrest

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

A

kc@theobserver.com

man who fell asleep outside the Lyndhurst storage unit he rents is likely having serious regrets now.

On Monday, Dec. 15, 2025 at 11:44 a.m., Sgt. Phil Reina and Officers Michael Scalese and James Colacci responded to 1 Terminal Road (Columbia Self Storage) for a report of a male party sleeping the hallway.

Upon arrival, police say they were met by management, who told them they received several complaints about a male sleeping in the hallway on the sixth floor.

The manger also reported the identity of the individual — Kevin Salamanca, 42, who had been renting a unit in the business. He indicated his unit was paid for and the only issue was him sleeping in the common area hallway.

When police got to the sixth floor, Salamanca was observed sleeping outside his unit as initially reported. Salamanca was sleeping in a lawn chair where an abundance of his items were strewn about the floor ground of his unit. As officers gathered Salamanca’s ID, they say they observed him to be nodding off. While awaiting the arrival of EMS, officers learned Salamanca had $15,750 in open warrants: $12,000 out of Hoboken, $3,000 out of Passaic and $750 out of Paterson.

While waiting for EMS and learning of

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the open warrants, Salamanca suddenly jumped up from his seat aggressively with his left hand digging in his waist band. At that time, Salamanca was immediately placed under arrest without incident. A search incident to arrest yielded a black folding knife with a 3.5 inch blade, copper mesh and a glass pipe with burnt residue, commonly used for inhaling CDS. Salamanca was charged with one count of fourth-degree unlawful possession a weapon, disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia.

After being processed, Salamanca was remanded to the Bergen County Jail, Hackensack.

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POLICE BEAT

WMS students sing with Christmas joy

8 in 10 get financial help.

Enroll by December 31st for coverage starting January 1st at

In the spirit of spreading holiday cheer, the Washington Middle School Choir performed at the recent Harrison tree and menorah lighting. Attended by community members, town leadership and Santa Claus, the event kicks off a festive holiday season.

Photo courtesy of Washington Middle School.

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Encarnacao reads to Schuyler School students during book giveaway for winter break

ozens of Schuyler School students walked home with brand new backpacks yesterday stuffed with free books as part of a unique collaboration between after-school providers and reading advocates.

The book bag giveaway at Schuyler included a special celebrity reading of stories by Superintendent of Schools Flora Encarnacao, visited the school to share her love of the written word with children in the Right At School after school program, which hosted the event.

She read to students and helped pass out the books with the students who are enrolled in the RAS program.

Encarnacao said: “Seeing our students with a book in hand at school is wonderful, but knowing they are also reading at home is the ultimate success.

Winter break is the perfect opportunity for an extended reading adventure.

We hope these new books inspire our Schuyler scholars to make this season one for extra reading time” This gift of books and materials to encourage families to read together was made possible by the Tepper Foundation, a New Jersey based foundation, and Raising a Reader, a national organization that works to support families so they can build reading routines into their home life.

They provide regular handouts of books from coast to coast, and teamed up on the Kearny donation with Luminous Minds. Each Family Shared Reading Program book bag includes six high quality bi-lingual books and there were 350 bags donated for this event; the remainder of the book bags will go to students at other schools.

KEARNY SCHOOLS

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

GUEST COMMENTARY

This Christmas season, give of yourself instead of just gifts

By Damien Garofalo

I

North Arlington

love Christmastime — the songs, the lights, the get-togethers and the church services. But there is an aspect of this season that gives me a little anxiety: gift-giving.

Perhaps it’s because I wait until the last minute to do shopping.

I want to give people something meaningful; I want to be cautious with my spending; I want everyone on my list to feel loved and appreciated. Checking all of these boxes can be mentally draining — perhaps you can relate.

The tradition of gift-giving finds its roots in the original Christmas, when Jesus Christ was born. Whether it’s to imitate the Magi who brought gifts to the newborn King, or we understand that giving his only begotten Son is God’s gift to the world, gift-giving is an essential part of celebrating Christmas.

If we are truly to follow Christ’s example, however, we would give more than material things. In the gospels, the meaning of Christmas is that Jesus gave himself for us. Jesus said of himself, “Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” in Matthew 20:28.

Reading the gospels, we see that Jesus did exactly what he said he would do. He spent time with his disciples, teaching them and being with them through various trials. He used his divine power not to serve himself, but to feed and heal.

Please remember to recycle this newspaper

He stooped down to our level.

He befriended the outcasts. He ate with sinners. And, he paid the ultimate price — his own life — so that sinners can find forgiveness, freedom and hope.

Jesus Christ is the Savior of the World and our example to follow. If you and I wish to truly magnify the meaning of Christmas, let us give ourselves to others. True love is self-sacrifice. Let us bring food to those in need, shovel other people’s walkways, invite neighbors for a meal, drive others to appointments, watch others’ children, and the list can go on.

Open your eyes — your neighbors have needs.

It might seem overwhelming, because we are all needy in some way, and it might seem like we can only solve less than a fraction of the world’s problems. But in the spirit of Christmas, we can all give ourselves - our time, our resources, our presence - to others, drawing our strength from the God who is Love, and do our part in bringing peace on earth.

Pastor Damien Garofalo Risen Savior Church North Arlington

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

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