MIGHTY QUINN
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
In a few weeks, the United Irish Associations of West Hudson will march along in the big parade from Harrison Avenue, to Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard to Kearny Avenue. And this is a special one, without question. The first parade stepped off 50 years ago around this time. And equally special, the parade’s grand marshal will celebrate his 30th year as the president of the association which is responsible for putting on perhaps the most important event all year long in Kearny, Harrison and East Newark.
Selected to serve this year’s parade as Grand Marshal is Kevin Quinn. He will be joined by two Deputy Grand Marshals
Michael Conlon and Ellen McGirr-Murray.
Before we get to the parade’s 50th anniversary, let’s take a look at the three honorees first.
Long-time United Irish Associations of West Hudson President Kevin Quinn, right, will serve as grand marshal of the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. He is seen here with, from left, Deputy Grand Marshal Michael Conlon, Patrick ‘Jr.’ O’Donnell (former grand marshal) and Deputy Grand Marshal Ellen McGirr-Murray
Kevin Quinn Quinn was proudly born to an Irish-Scottish American family in 1961, to mum Patricia and dad Rocky. He has a brother,
Dennis, and a sister, Patti Rowe. Quinn attended St. Cecilia Grammar School and then went on to Queen of Peace High School, North Arlington, and attended college at SUNY-Albany.
In 1986, he married his wife, Michele Anne Corey-Quinn.
Then, 21 years later, Kevin and Michele welcomed their son, Patrick Liam Quinn.
His work with the United Irish
has been extensive, including stints as a delegate, treasurer and parade coordinator. But it was in 1996 when he assumed the role of president, one he has held for the last 30 years. He was also on the board at the Kearny Irish American club for several years.
Quinn was a Kearny Little League and Hudson CYO basketball coach for many years. He is also a member of Montclair’s Police Athletic League’s exec board and previously served as its president.
For 27 years, Quinn successfully worked for Verizon, retiring in 2023, after leading teams of as many as 200 employees. He also worked several other positions and was responsible for “developing new technologies” for the telecommunications giant.
Michael Patrick Conlon
Conlon is a Son of Erin. His paternal great-great grandparents, Michael and Bridget Con-
See PARADE, Page 14
Photo by the United Irish
Kearny UNICO hosting fish & chips fundraiser
The Kearny chapter of UNICO sponsors a fish & chips fundraiser Thursday, March 12, from 6 to 8 p.m., and the American Legion Post, 314 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children younger than 10 and must be pre-paid. There will be a 50-50 and tricky tray. (Chicken will
be available for those who don’t like fish.) To purchase tickets, call Celeste Pandolfi at (201) 693-8503.
Nutley hosting open-mic night for women only
The Township of Nutley, in partnership with the Nutley Women’s Networking Group, invites local women musicians, singers, poets, comedians and
storytellers to share talents at Nutley’s first-ever Women’s Open Mic Night, Thursday, March 26 at the Old Canal Inn, 2 E. Passaic Ave., Nutley. The event, a part of Women’s History Month, is open to the public and designed to celebrate the creativity of the female performer, giving both seasoned and first time performers a welcoming stage.
Nutley’s own Anna Felice will emcee the event and perform. Members of the Nutley Women’s Networking Group will be on hand to meet, greet and introduce patrons to the many women-owned and operated businesses in town. To register as a performer visit bit.ly/ Womenopenmike26
by Wednesday, March 11, by calling (201) 988-0183. The Knights ask twhose attending to donate a non-perishable, non-expired canned good (for example: soup, canned spaghetti, vegetables) for its Food for Families project.
QP Knights hosting ‘Meatballs & Music’ oldies night
Office: 201-955-3100 Fax: 201-955-3339
Nutley’s annual blood drive upcoming
The Nutley Department of Public Affairs and Health have partnered with Vitalant Blood Services of New Jersey to conduct the township’s annual community mobile blood drive in memory of Nutley resident and business owner Keith Jaret. Keith and Maureen Jaret were Nutley business owners and residents for many years.
In February 2018, Keith died from liver disease.
The drive takes place Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the Nutley Public Affairs Building 149 Chestnut St., from 2:30 to 7 p.m. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. All safety precautions will be put in place to ensure the health and well-being of all donors and technicians. Please do not donate if you are sick or may have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus. Donors must be between the ages of 16 and 76, weigh over 110lbs and be in general good health. To schedule an appointment, visit https://is.gd/nutleyblood.
QP Knights hosting breakfast to benefit NA CERT
The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus host a benefit breakfast for the North Arlington CERT Team Sunday, March 15 at 10 a.m., at the Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington. On the menu are pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, oatmeal, cold cereal, bagels and refreshments.
The costs are $25 per adult and $10 for kids ages 6 to 11. Reservations must be made
Queen of Peace Parish presents a fun night of dinner, music and dancing, “Meatballs & Music,” featuring the very talented Dave Beasley playing music from the ’50s early ’60s and more Saturday night, March 21, at the Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington. Doors open at 6 p.m., an Italian dinner is served at 6:30 p.m.
The costs are $40 per adult, $20 for children aged 6 to 11, refreshments of beer, wine and soda included. Tickets can be purchased at the Queen of Peace Rectory or by calling (201) 988-1219 or (201) 9880183. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
Troop 305 hosting tricky tray
Boy Scout Troop 305, St. Stephen’s, Kearny, hosts a ’70s tricky tray April 18, from 6:30 p.m. at Hedges Hall, Kearny. The cost is $45 and includes a catered dinner, ’70s music, prizes and a 50/50 raffle. Entry includes a sheet of tickets.
Purchase $45 tickets by visiting unit305trickytray2026. eventbrite.com. Anyone who wishes to donate prizes may do so by first sending a note by email to friendsof305@gmail. com Visit www.kearnyscouts. com for more information.
NAPL hosting Social Security seminar
The North Arlington Public Library hosts a seminar on applying for Social Security with Neil Damato Thursday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m. Damato, a representative of the Professional Continued on the next page
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Economic Growth Group in Fairfield, will explain how and when to file for Social Security. He will also reveal strategies for maximizing benefits and minimizing taxes. Attendees will also find out how to coordinate Social Security with other retirement income. Space at the program is limited. Sign up at the Reference Desk.
Elks hosting pie-throwing event
The Elks host a pie-throwing fundraiser March 20, at 7 p.m., at the North Arlington Elks Lodge, 129 Ridge Road. Pies are $5 Bring snacks. A cash bar will be available. Here’s your chance to pie a bunch of Elks leaders, including Melanie Pasquarelli and Bill Dow.
American Legion fish fry upcoming
Kearny American Legion Post No. 99 hosts a fish fry March 29, from noon to 2 p.m., at the post, 314 Belgrove Drive. The cost is $25 per person. Call (201) 8898759 to purchase a ticket. Space is limited.
Community Care Kitchen takes place every Saturday but first of month
The Community Care Kitchen serves hot sit-down or takeout 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 church-
es 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 takeout meal. 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.
Get help paying for food from NA Health
Department
The North Arlington Health Department hosts a presentation for residents of North Arlington and surrounding towns 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 March 10. 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.
Belleville church hosts monthly food pantry
Wesley United Methodist Church & Gosen Church, 225 Washington Ave., Belleville, host a food pantry the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more details, call Dana at (201) 706-1104 (English) or Pastor Castro at (551) 399-9931 (Spanish).
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 longtime director of the Presbyterian Boys & Girls Club.
Melham furious Essex prosecutor won’t charge man who doxxed him
Belleville Mayor Michael A. Melham says the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office is skirting its duty to protect him and others by not bringing harassment charges against a Belleville resident who created an image of the mayor’s home and making it appear the home was an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, flanked by a watch tower, barbed wire, security cameras and an ICE vehicle all posted to social media.
Melham issued a statement Thursday, Feb. 19, in response to the ECPO’s reported decision not to prosecute the man responsible for the image.
Here’s Melham’s statement:
“As Mayor, I understand that public service comes with criticism.
Over the years, I have been a frequent target of verbal
attacks, as well as physical threats. I have largely handled those matters quietly, often working with private security or directly with the Belleville Police Department, which has consistently had my back.
The constant threat of harm is something, sadly, that I have grown accustomed.
The times are now changing for the worse. In today’s deeply divisive political climate, we cannot afford to dismiss serious threats or conduct that places elected officials, their families, and their homes at risk.
I am writing to express my outrage and disbelief at the decision of the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office not to approve criminal harassment charges against an individual who targeted me and did so in a manner that reasonably appeared to encourage others to
and my residence.
A photograph of my home was posted online. My home address was published. My property was digitally altered to resemble an ICE detention facility. Social media users were told that I may be seeking to rent my property
to ICE.
Some may dismiss this as absurd. But within the past week, an individual was arrested for attempting to set fire to a building they believed ICE was about to occupy. That is not hypothetical. That is reality. This is the environment we are operating in.
Publishing a home address and photograph, while inflaming followers with false and provocative claims, is not harmless political speech. It is deliberate conduct reasonably likely to cause alarm or fear and to encourage dangerous behavior.
Under New Jersey law, harassment includes communications made in a manner likely to cause alarm or serious annoyance. Social media is unquestionably a form of communication within the meaning of that statute, which is why I remain baffled by the decision not to allow the charge.
The reality is that the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office had the discretion to allow this charge to proceed. It chose not to. Now the Belleville Police Department has had to increase patrols and take other security measures.
The issue of protecting elected officials must transcend politics and party affiliation.
In recent years, we have seen the assassination of Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour, who was shot 15 times at point-blank range in front of her home, and the killing of a federal judge’s 20-year-old son at their residence in North Brunswick.
These horrific events remind us that rhetoric and targeting can escalate with devastating consequences.
Daniel’s Law shields the home addresses of law-enforcement officers and members of the judiciary. Elected officials are not included. I find it deeply
ironic those whose home addresses are already protected under the law are the very ones making cavalier decisions not to extend similar protections to those of us who remain unprotected.
This is not about politics. It is about safety. It is about preventing escalation before it turns into tragedy. When a public official’s home address is published and paired with inflammatory messaging, it must be taken seriously.
I will continue to serve Belleville proudly. But I will not stay silent when decisions are made that I believe put public officials and their families at unnecessary risk.
If you are unhappy with the tone of my statement, I invite you to spend a night at my home and bring your family. My address is online.”
Meanwhile, a bill introduced in the New Jersey Assembly, if passed, would afford elected officials the same kinds of protections offered to those covered by Daniel’s Law.
However, New Jersey county prosecutors do have the discretion to charge people who caused undue harm to those no covered under that law. In this case, the prosecutor decided the doxxing of Melham did not rise to a chargeable offense.
Continued on the next page
ANTHONY J. RIPOSTA, ESQ.
CORY ANNE CASSIDY, ESQ.
perpetuate violence against me
Melham Stephens
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
New Belleville Township Clerk off to fast start
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The Belleville township clerk’s office is a generally a bustling place, where a resident might need help with a liquor license one minute, then another submitting an Open Public Records Act request, while a third is applying for a raffle license.
For new Municipal Clerk Jacky Guaman, being at the nexus of activity in Belleville is precisely how she likes it.
Guaman says the fast-pa.ced and multifaceted nature of her work helping with the day-to-day operations of Belleville allows her to assist many more people each day at town hall.
“I enjoy it so much,” Guaman, who was appointed to the role by a 6-0 vote at recent meeting of the Mayor and Township Council, said. “I enjoy helping everyone, getting my hands involved in everything here. I know it’s a lot of work, but it’s different type of work because I’m not just concentrating on one role. I deal with multiple things.”
Said Mayor Michael Melham: “Jacky has often gone above and beyond the call of duty, and there is probably no greater example of that than how she often helps our Spanish-speaking residents. For instance, she has helped many residents navigate the application process to obtain state-funded, zero-interest loans through the Home Improvement Program. The fact that Jacky is bilingual not to mention Belleville-proud is a huge asset for our town.”
It was a series of seemingly unrelated events that led to Guaman becoming the township clerk.
She originally worked in the medical field as a sonographer, before taking a job with the township as an aide. Construction in Town Hall forced her to
Continued from previous page
Essex County Prosecutor Theodore “Ted” Stephens II, meanwhile, whose office would not charge the doxxer, declined to comment for this story.
The photo Melham refers to earlier shows his home, which also doubles as office space. Bars were artificially placed onto all of the windows, and either using Photoshop or some sort of artificial intelligence app, the image was altered to look
vacate her work space and take up temporary residence in the clerk’s office.
The move allowed her to have a closeup view as then-clerk Kelly Cavanagh went about serving the township.
“I got along with Kelly very well and I was intrigued by her job, everything that she did,” Guaman said.
“I wanted to learn more about the municipality, so I started taking the municipal clerk classes. I wanted to know the ins and outs of an ordinance, what the job of a clerk entails, all those things.”
great candidate to one day replace her.
Guaman feels like this is where she was always meant to be.
She was born in Ecuador; her family then moved to the United States. They originally moved to Chicago, before settling in Newark. That’s where Guaman grew up.
BELLEVILLE NEWS
Guaman ultimately bought a house in Belleville, settled down and found a home here over the past 18 years, getting involved in the PTA at various schools and the Woman’s Club of Belleville.
local food pantries or reached out to the Michael Melham Civic Association to procure gift cards to help families get by.
She said she gets that type of compassion not to mention her work ethic from her late father, Leonidas.
She watched as he built a company from meager beginnings to the point where it became a trusted subcontractor with a fleet of dump trucks. Leonidas got plenty of help from his wife, Martha, who did the billing.
Sometimes, you’d catch young Jacky under the hood of one of the trucks, helping her dad make repairs.
After passing the requisite state classes, she went to work as the deputy clerk under Cavanagh.
Guaman approached her duties, which included serving as the secretary to Melham and the Township Council, with such energy and enthusiasm that Cavanagh would tell Guaman she would be a
She’s able to use her deep connections in the community to help residents in ways that aren’t listed on her job description. For instance, she will often field calls from residents who have just lost jobs or are facing a financial crisis and have nowhere to turn.
Guaman is able to connect them with
like as though there was an ICE lookout tower on the property’s lawn and it added fake ICE vehicles onto the property.
Melham is up for re-election this year’s non-partisan election. He is political independent (not unaffiliated) voter who has supported both Republicans and Democrats in prior elections. He has not revealed his position on ICE actions that have gripped the nation in the last year-plus and rarely weighs in on national political matters and issues.
“My parents were always very involved, always helping someone, always helping a neighbor,” Guaman said. “My dad was always big on giving because you may need that help sometime in the future or your kids might need it. I always say I can help anyone. I don’t need a thank you. I just want things to get done.”
Guaman at her desk at Township Hall.
OPINION
COMMENTARY
It’s a challenge for some to be neighborly during storms
If you’re reading this newspaper in hard copy — on Feb. 25, 2026 especially — you may be one of the lucky ones given the snow we got hit with on Sunday and Monday. Still, the recent storms have been reminders of a few things that happen when the snow falls. I’d like to share with you a few thoughts, today.
First, it really is a shame what a cesspool social media becomes when it snows. The reality is most complainers have never performed the work the DPWs have to perform to remove snow. Some of these workers, from all the towns we cover, work 12+-hour shifts. Those shifts are grueling. I often wonder if the complainers would be willing to trade places with anyone from any DPW during the a snow storm.
The reality is every DPW superintendent and employee has performed as well as they could, given the conditions they’ve faced in the last two storms. And I for one want them all to know how much their work is appreciated.
And yes, we know, it’s just different (more efficient) in Harrison.
Also saw a social media post from a resident who said he pays enough in taxes and he would not help to remove snow near a fire hydrant by his home. To say that comment was baffling is an understatement.
And I hope it’s the exception, not the norm, because that’s not how we do things around here. Just think of it for a moment. Clearing away fire hydrants is perhaps more important than regular snow removal.
If any fire department is sent to a working fire — and hydrants remain covered by snow because someone’s taxes are too high to do something neighborly to clear them, it could easily be the difference between life and death for any number of people. So please, do your part.
Anyone who lived through the Blizzard of ’96 will remember just how difficult snow removal was. And that was during a time when snow could be dumped into the Passaic River. But we ultimately got through that one, just like we did in 1982, 2006, 2016, etc. We will get through this one too.
Imposition of the ashes
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— CANESSA
And it will be all the more easy to do so if everyone did their part to be neighborly. Is that really too much to ask?
Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager
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Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster
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he season of Lent began last week on Ash Wednesday. Lent is a 40-day period where many Christians pray and fast in anticipation of Easter Sunday, the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The ashes are a reminder of each person’s mortality and promise of eternal life. Here, the Rev. Ivan Sciberras, pastor of St. Peter’s Church, Belleville, imposes ashes on the forehead of a Belleville police officer.
BOWLING FOR TITLES
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Nutley boys bowling coach Frank Sasso can remember the empty feeling his team felt 12 months ago when they left North Brunswick’s Lucky Strike having suffered its only defeat of the season in the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 final to Delbarton.
While that feeling stuck to this veteran group of Maroon Raider bowlers, it’s one they were able to rid themselves of on Saturday.
Fifty-two weeks after that deflating loss, Nutley again returned to the final at Lucky Strike, only this time, the feeling was one of elation as the Raiders defeated Chatham, 2-0, in the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 championship.
Nutley is now set to compete in the Group 3 semifinals at Lucky Strike, weather permitting. The final will be held right after the conclusion of the semifinals.
“When we left there, that was
our only loss last year and we kind of felt empty. We had such a great season going undefeated and we walked away with nothing,” Sasso said. “We wanted another shot at it. And they had to work hard to get there and they did. So I was proud of them. They had a plan and they stuck to it.”
Nutley’s title is a testament to the significant improvements the Raiders’ starters have made from a year ago.
Leading that charge has been junior Jackson Veneziano who has rolled a 219.83 average this season, a 16 pin improvement from a year ago, to emerge as one of the state’s better bowlers. Veneziano has further elevated his play during the state tournament, rolling a 227.83 average in wins over Mount Olive, Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Chatham. Behind Veneziano is sophomore Benjamin Johnson who has been one of North Jersey’s breakout stars. After a solid freshman year where he rolled a
166.26 average, Johnson this year is averaging 206.15, a jaw-dropping improvement of 40 pins. In Saturday’s final, Johnson rolled a match-best 484 high series, powered by his 250 in the first game.
According to Sasso, he doesn’t recall having a bowler make this kind of leap from one year to the next.
“He averaged 166 as a freshman, which is pretty good, coming in,” Sasso said. “But then to finish in the top 100 (is huge). His sophomore year is like a freight train. He just kept coming all year.”
Both Veneziano and Johnson have qualified for the upcoming state individuals tournament.
Senior Kiaden Cerniglia-Rapavi occupies the leadoff spot in the Nutley lineup. For the season, he’s rolling an 185.48 average, but has been brilliant in the state tournament, averaging 209.33.
Another starter for the Raiders is senior Patrick Markey. Markey, who is in just his second year as a
bowler, is rolling a 179.49 average, an improvement of more than 25 pins after averaging 154.0 in spot duty last season.
The fifth starter is a role that’s been shared throughout the season by freshman Jacob Capalaran (181.52 average) and sophomore Gavin Cerniglia-Rapavi (175.64 average).
“We had that challenge and I said I can’t just pick five because both of them are young bowlers, both good bowlers,” said Sasso. “We said we’re going to split the role and if someone’s really on fire and steps up or then we ride with that. And they were both in agreement. I don’t really feel that there was any competition amongst them. I think they supported each other.”
Making sure both were ready at a moments’ notice proved critical when Capalaran was sidelined in the final due to illness. In his place Gavin Cerniglia-Rapavi rolled a 350 high series.
Senior Aidan Battaglia, a three-
year varsity bowler, provides further depth for the Raiders.
While Nutley moves on to the semifinals, North Arlington’s boys saw their title hopes dashed when it was defeated by local rival Rutherford, 2-0, in the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 1 final. The Vikings had a stellar season, going 23-4, a record that included a pair of regular season wins over Rutherford, but the Bulldogs got the third and final matchup on Saturday.
On the girls side, North Arlington is just one win away from repeating as North Jersey, Group 1 champions after defeating St. Thomas Aquinas, 2-0, in the semifinals on Thursday. North Arlington (23-2), who is ranked No. 17 in the state by NJ.com, will try to repeat on Tuesday at Lucky Strike when it goes up against Dumont. The overall Group 1 championship will be held following that day as well, following the conclusion of the North and South finals.
Photo courtesy of Frank Sasso
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
The popularity of high school girls wrestling continues to grow both locally and statewide. So much so, that two weekends is no longer enough for the NJSIAA Girls Wrestling State Tournament.
This coming Sunday, March 1, one day after the boys hold their annual district tournaments, the NJSIAA will have its first ever district tournaments for the girls. In total, there are 12 district sites, including Nutley, which is the host site for District 3.
“We’re very excited about it. We started off three years ago at the county tournament in our own gym and now we get to host
a district,” Nutley head coach Mike DiPiano said. “We are proud to support women’s wrestling and we’re all in. It’s going to be great for the sport, it’s great for the girls that are on our team to be able to wrestle home and it’s going to be great for all of our rec girls to see that we’re hosting that as well. “
While DiPiano is excited to host, he also expects several of his wrestlers to advance on to the North 1 Region at Vernon on March 8.
For senior Izzy Timonera, it’s a chance to make up for lost time. Timonera looked primed for a trip to the state championship at Atlantic City a year ago until an elbow injury ended her junior season prematurely. Back
at 100-percent, Timonera has gone 27-7 in a season that saw her capture a third Essex County championship at 100 pounds and become the program’s career
wins leader.
“She’s never made it to Atlantic City and I don’t think she’ll be content if her career ends in Vernon (at the regionals),” said DiPiano. “We got some big matches this weekend and then districts
in her home gym and then this is it. Three weeks to fulfill your dreams.”
While Timonera is looking to make her first trip to AC, sophomore Michelle Gavilanes isn’t just content on merely making it there. Gavilanes has followed up a stellar freshman year, with arguably an even bigger sophomore season, going 35-3 at 145 pounds with a second straight Essex County title.
“We thought she could have been there last year, didn’t work out the way we all wanted it to, but getting there is not the goal this year,” DiPiano said. “Getting on the medal stand and putting your name on the wall forever is. This is the plan and we believe she has a great opportunity to do See WRESTLING, Page 10
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TOURETTE SYNDROME
Tourette syndrome is a neurological condition that starts in childhood and causes sudden, repeated movements or sounds called tics. These might include blinking, shoulder shrugging, throat clearing, sniffing, facial movements, and simple vocal sounds. Tics often begin between the ages of five and ten and tend to peak during early adolescence before improving in adulthood. People usually feel a pre tic urge, such as the need to twitch or clear their throat, and while tics can be briefly suppressed, they often return more strongly. The condition affects about 1% of children and is more common in boys. Treatment focuses on support, education, and behavioral approaches like habit reversal
training, while medications are considered only when tics significantly interfere with daily life.
Although there’s no cure for Tourette syndrome, it doesn’t get worse over time. The condition usually improves by early adulthood. Tics may still occur, but most adults don’t need to continue medication or therapy. Please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474 to schedule an appointment, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B.
P.S. The cause of Tourette syndrome is a mix of genetic and environmental factors, and although no single gene is responsible, family history plays a strong role.
Email any questions or comments to: premiercare@gmail.com
Premier Care Associates of West Hudson is available on a walk-in or appointment basis for your primary healthcare needs.
Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
Dr. Hector Aguilar
Photos by Jason Bernstein
Main photo and inset featuring Aitana Lozano
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Christopher Cifeli’s Senior Night followed a script more likely to have come from a Hollywood studio than a Nutley gym.
Wrestling his final home dual match, Cifelli, in front of countless family members, made history by recording his 100th career win when he defeated Irvington’s Eric Estrada by tech fall 19-3) on Feb. 12.
Cifelli became the first Maroon Raider to reach the prestigious 100-win club since current assistant coach Frank DeMaio in 2018.
Now Cifelli can add another shared honor with DeMaio as he’s been selected The Observer Athlete of the Week just like DeMaio was after his 100th win.
“It felt amazing,” said Cifelli, admitting to feeling some nerves before taking the mat that night.
“It was unbelievable, especially getting on senior night in the last home dual.”
“It meant a lot to him,” head coach Mike DiPiano said. “To get it at home in front of the fans was special. He’ll get to remember that for the rest of his life.
“This sport takes a toll on you. It’s not easy. So to be able to do it your whole life then to get that hundred win milestone is very special.”
Since then, Cifelli has added four more wins to improve his season record to 28-7. Of greater importance, he heads into Saturday’s District 10 Tournament on a nine-match winning streak since returning from a shoulder injury that sidelined him in early February.
“When I got hurt two weeks before (my 100th win), I was a little scared I wouldn’t make it, but I took some time off to get rest and get my body back to
good and I got it done basically,” Cifelli said. “I knew I could do it. It was just a matter of how much I wanted it.
“I would say (the shoulder) is much, much better than what it was in the beginning. I feel 10 times better than what I did last week, so it’s definitely getting better.”
When healthy, Cifelli has looked like a wrestler with the potential to make it to Atlantic City for the state championships. Wrestling at 138 pounds this season, Cifelli claimed second place in the Essex County Tournament
on Jan. 22. He also won matches at the TCNJ Pride and Sam Cali Battle for the Belt Tournaments earlier this winter.
For his career, Cifelli, who will continue his wrestling career at Centenary University, is a threetime regional qualifier and as a sophomore won a district title.
DiPiano said he knew that Cifelli had the ability to be one of the better wrestlers Nutley has had dating back to when he saw Cifelli wrestle with the town’s recreation program. As a freshman, Cifelli remembered telling DeMaio and his other coaches that his name would be on the wall that commemorates the program’s 100 win wrestlers.
“I told him since freshman year that I was going to be on
Photophobia is better known as sensitivity or intolerance to bright light. It’s often the sign of an underlying condition, and it’s also linked to multiple eye and neurological conditions. Furthermore, it is associated with certain mental health conditions and some systemic, whole-body diseases. In addition, photophobia is linked to migraines and is a common symptom of migraine headaches. It can be temporary or long term, and can also be caused by taking certain medications. If you have photophobia, both sunlight and bright artificial lights may feel too intense or even painful. The most common side effect reported is dry eyes. Other symptoms in-
clude squinting, watering eyes, headaches, difficulty seeing or focusing, seeing bright spots or dark spots, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.
Treating photophobia depends on finding out what’s causing it and then treating the cause. It’s likely that your provider will do some tests to diagnose the condition that’s causing the photophobia. To schedule an appointment, please call 201-8960096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance. P.S. TENS therapy and Botox injections may provide relief when photophobia causes eye pain.
Photo courtesy of the Cifelli Family
WRESTLING
Continued from Page 8
that.”
While Timonera and Gavillanes are the most accomplished, DiPiano believes others have the ability to advance past District 3, most notably freshman Gracelyn Archuleta, who has gone 23-12 while wrestling primarily at 107 or 112 pounds. Two other freshmen - Janizza Timonera (17-10 at 100 pounds) and Peyton Rotbaum (20-15 at 126 pounds) also have the potential for big performances at districts.
Sophomores Laila Marsala
ATHLETE
Continued from Page 9
(120 pounds) and Omairy Villalona (235 pounds) are also set to compete for the Raiders.
Also competing at District 3 will be Lyndhurst-North Arlington and its own star senior Aitana Lozano, who took second place at the Bergen County Tournament for the second consecutive year. Lozano, who won the Lady Kards Invitational in Kearny on Feb. 14, has a stellar 17-2 record and her sights firmly set on Atlantic City.
“Even with all the victories she’s had and the accolades and the success, there’s that hole that she’s trying to fill because she just comes in to work every day very hungry,” head coach Matt
that wall next right after him,” said Cifelli. “And soon enough, I did it.”
The story of Cifelli’s 100th win
DeMarco said. “You can see the determination even after she won the Kearny tournament last weekend, and she was happy, of course, proud, but she just said, all right, now it’s time for the postseason.”
Lyndhurst-North Arlington will also have senior Leia Lumba (11-5) competing at 145 pounds.
Kearny may not have a wrestler with the multi-year resume like Lozano, Timonera or Gavilanes, but the Kardinals are sending their deepest ever roster with 11 wrestlers seeing significant time this season.
Headlining the contingent that will compete at District 4 in Phillipsburg is freshman Aralyn
might read like a scene from a movie, but he certainly doesn’t want it to be his final act at Nutley. For all that Cifelli has already
Hernandez, who is 20-2 at 132 pounds, and sophomore Mariah Pagan who is 18-5 at 100 pounds.
Others who enter with a strong chance in districts include sophomores Bree Rocco (14-8 at 120 pounds) and Angelina De Araujo (15-9 at 145 pounds) and freshman Maia Sierra (16-8 at 126 pounds).
Sophomores Sojari Vigo (10-8 at 114), Juannis Rios, Carolina Paz and Ariella Saenz-DaSilva, and juniors Jazlene Poeck (12-11 at 152) and Eileen Carabajal-Silvera are also likely to compete in District 4 as Kearny hopes to enjoy some unprecedented state tournament success.
“With the districts, if we could
accomplished, the one thing that has eluded him has been a spot in the state championships at Atlantic City.
Last year, in the “blood round” of regionals where the winner earns a spot to AC and the loser’s hopes are dashed, Cifelli was defeated by Cranford’s Ryder Connors by decision. Since that moment, the goal for Cifelli has been clear.
get a few to the region, I’d be pumped about that. But to go to the States would be huge,” head coach Tony Carratura Jr. said. “For the girls coming up from our youth program to see that would be huge and it just validates our program a little bit more.”
Also at Phillipsburg will be Belleville. Junior Tiffany Guanoquiza Restrepo (11-5), who took fourth in Essex County at 126 pounds, leads the Bucs contingent, which also includes Jessica Calle (7-7), who took fifth at 120 pounds, and fellow Essex County Tournament medalists Ashley Sarceno and Isabella Chirino.
“The next milestone is to make it to Atlantic City,” said DiPiano. “I don’t think he’ll be content with his career if he does not get there.”
“As much as I’ve accomplished, AC has always been the goal,” Cifelli said. “A hundred wins was just another milestone, but AC is really the main goal. And after last year, that’s all I’ve been set on.”
The regular meeting of the Kearny Planning Board scheduled for Wednesday, March 4th, 2026, at 7:30 pm in the Council Chambers at 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032 has been cancelled. By: Jennifer Diaz, Board Secretary ($3.00 Online 02/25/26 & Newspaper)
The regular meeting of the Kearny Zoning Board of Adjustment is to be held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 7:30 pm in the Council Chambers 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ. The extent of the agenda is known as follows: #2026.01 Antonio Ferreira, Etux 437-439 Kearny Avenue Variance application. By: Jennifer Diaz, Board Secretary ($7.00 Online 02/25/26 & Newspaper)
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 3/19/26, 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: Maintenance Infrastructure Repair Contract, North - 2026, Various Locations Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Union and Warren (Including and North of Route 57) Counties 100% State Funded DP No: 26437
Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 (P.L 1975, c. 127); N.J.A.C. 17:27.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.19, contractors must provide a Certification and Disclosure of Political Contribution Form prior to contract award. 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 tocontract award or authorization.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid. Plans, 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, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our 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 ($78.00 02/25/26, 03/04/26 & 03/11/26)
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
OBITUARIES
James Teresco
James “Jim” Teresco, a cherished husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, died peacefully Feb. 17, 2026, at the age of 91.
Born March 18, 1934, in Jersey City, Jim lived for many years in Harrison, Lyndhurst, Toms River and most recently Lakewood. Jim’s life is marked by dedication and a deep love for his family.
Jim served his country honorably as a US Army Paratrooper during the Korean War. He dedicated many years of his life to McLean Trucking as a skilled dock worker. A man of simple pleasures, Jim found joy fishing and crabbing with his family. He could often be found on early mornings on the Barnegat Bay with his boys.
Jim’s love for the harmonica was another facet of his vibrant character, something he was proud to share with his great-grandsons. Jim also held a deep love caring for animals of all kinds. He was known for feeding the local squirrels, rabbits and birds.
Preceded by his cherished daughter Annette, Jim is survived by his loving wife, Pauline, with whom he shared an unwavering partnership.
His legacy of kindness and strength lives on through his son, Jim Jr. and wife Maureen, his cherished sister Susan, his son-in-law Vee, his adored grandsons, Matthew, Brian (wife Shannon) and Timothy and his great-grandsons, Logan, Cameron and Benjamin.
Above all, Jim loved his family unflinchingly, his deep-seated values of family and hard work have left an indelible imprint on the lives of those he touched. Though he has left this earth, the melodies of his harmonica and the warmth of his presence will resonate always. The memory of Gramps will be carried forward with love and cherished forever.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made
to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Jim’s honor.
Eileen C. McAlinden
Eileen C. McAlinden (nee Otto) died Feb. 19, 2026. She was 99. Born in Newark, she lived most of her life in Harrison before moving to Kearny.
Visiting will be Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026 beginning at 11 a.m. in the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Her service will be at 1 p.m. and burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Eileen was a 1947 graduate from All Souls Hospital School of Nursing. She was a nurse at St. James Hospital, retiring as nursing supervisor after 30 years of employment. She and her late husband James were very active with Holy Cross Roman Catholic Church in Harrison. She enjoyed her membership in the Rosary Society.
Wife of the late James J., she is the mother of William McAlinden (his wife Linda), Maureen Gogal (her husband Doug), James E. McAlinden (his wife Sharon) and Dennis McAlinden. Sister of the late Edward and William Otto, she is also survived by seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, her sister-in-law Joan McGrath along with nieces, nephews and their families.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Alzhiemer’s research in her memory.
Patricia ‘Pat’ A. Caggiano
She carried the love of Christ into every life she touched.
Patricia “Pat” A. Caggiano, age 85, was born Oct. 23, 1940, in Newark and raised in Kearny, where she graduated from Kearny High School.
She began her career at Mutual Benefit Life Insurance
in Newark and later changed careers and worked in investments, showing strength and courage to begin again.
In 1987, she moved to Nutley, where she made her home in a small condominium she loved. She put down roots there, made many friends, built a full social life and found real happiness in the community.
She is survived by her son, William F. Brown, and daughterin-law, Laurena Brown, of Auburndale, Florida; her daughter, Patricia A. Brown, of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania; her grandchildren, Bethany, Ryan, Stephanie and Jessica; and her great-grandchildren, Travis, Savannah, Kelsey, Ayden, Jaxson and Scarlett.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Josephine Caggiano; her sister, Clair Sutton; and her beloved grandson, Aaron.
Pat loved Jesus, was saved by His grace and followed Him with a faithful heart. She was proud of her Italian heritage, loyal to the people she loved, and known for her warmth and kindness. She never met a stranger, loved being with people and brought joy into every room. She was a dear friend to Linda and Janet and to many others. Her presence will be missed greatly by all who love her.
All are welcome to join Pat’s family at her viewing on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, from 2 p.m. until time of service at 4 p.m. at Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, with Pastor James Trefflinger officiating. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to either Samaritan’s Purse at samaritanspurse.org or to Living Waters at livingwaters.com/ donate.
Patrick J. Nash Sr.
Patrick J. Nash Sr. of Kearny died Feb. 12, 2026. He was 65.
Private arrangements were by the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Patrick was the son of Patrick and Mary (Yegliss) Nash and father of Patrick J. Nash Jr. He was also the brother of Carl Nash, Sheila Pereira and the late Eddie Nash.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Scots American Club of Kearny.
Home for Services
331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison
WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME
Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916
You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South
Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221 Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North 973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657
BELLEVILLE 2 bedrooms 1 bath, EIK, LR. $1300 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/smoking (973)207-7070 40W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
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 40W03
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 42W03
HARRISON 2nd floor. 2 BR. Large LR & Kitchen. 1 Bath. Central Air. $1800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Close to Path. No Smoking. Available March 1st. Call (973)563-9894 41W03
HARRISON 2nd Floor.
2 BR’s, EIK, LR,DR 1.5 months security. Utilities separate, Heating included. No Pets/ Smoking Available April 1st (973)351-5512 42W03
BELLEVILLE 2nd Floor.
2 BR, Good Location $2000 + 1 months security. No Smoking/ Pets 67 Prospect St. Available immediately. Utilities not included (973)980-1146 Call for appointment 42W03
E.NEWARK 1st fl. 4 BR, LR, Kitchen, DR, $2800 + 1 months security. Utilities separate No pets/smoking . Avl. Now (201) 240-3841 42W03
E.NEWARK 2nd floor.
2 BR’s, LR, DR $2400 + 1 months security, HT/ HW Included No Pets/ Smoking Available now (201)925-4050 42W03
HARRISON 2nd floor.
2 BRs. EIK. LR. 1 Bath. New Kitchen appliances. H/W floors, $1,800 + 1 month security. Utilities separate. 1 yr. lease. No pets/smoking. Avl. March 1st (973) 2075229 40W03
KEARNY 3BR Apt
$2900 + 1 Months security, LR, DR, KITCHEN. Access to backyard, garage, laundry & bsmnt. Call/text Available Now 551-225-1541 40W03
KEARNY 2 BR’s, LR, Kitchen, on Kearny Ave. $1,800 + 1.5 months security. Separate utilities. No pets. Avl. March 1st. (201)8931955 40W03
KEARNY 2nd floor.
Large 2 BR’s. LR, DR, EIK. Hardwood floors. Walk in Closet. $2500 + 1.5 months security.
Utilities not included. No Pets/Smoking. Credit Check, employment verification and references required. By appointment only Avail Now (973) 309-5773 41W03
KEARNY 3rd Floor. 1 BR, EIK, $1,875 + 1 1/2 months security.
Utilities not included. No pets/smoking. Avl. Now. Credit Check, employment verification and references required. By appointment only (973) 309-5773 41W03
KEARNY 1st Floor
3 BRs, $2380 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 42W03
KEARNY Large 1st floor Freshly painted
4 BR’s, LR, EIK, 1 Bath, access to patio $2750 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 42W03
LYNDHURST 4 Room
First FL apartment Closet to train & bus $1950 +1.5 months Security. Utilities not included. Available now. Call (201)438-1987 40W03
LYNDHURST Ground floor 3 BR’s, LR, EIK, 1 Bath $2500 + 1 months security, Utilities separate, No Pets/Smoking Available March 1st (201)655-4663 or (201)655-4664 40W03
N.ARLINGTON 2nd floor, 2 bedrooms, Large LR & DR combination. HW floors throughout, Easy access to public transit. Off Street Parking available. $1,875 + 1.5 months security. Available March 1st (908)462-8525 40W03
N.ARLINGTON Studio
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N.ARLINGTON
NEWARK 1st, 2nd & 3rd floor apartments
1 BR, LR, DR, EIK. C/A, Appliances included No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)993-0683 42W03
One bedroom 3 room apartment in an apartment complex. Excellent location, near stores and Transportation $1800.00 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 40W03
N.ARLINGTON Newly renovated 2nd floor. 2 BR, LR, EIK. $2300 +1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets. Available Now (201)9971222 or (201)290-4861 40W03
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2 BR’s, EIK, LR, Newly renovated, 1 block from NYC transportation. Walking distance to schools, shopping and parks. No pets. No smoking. $1950 + 1.5 months security. Garage optional to rent Available Now Please call (973) 517-1342 42W03
KEARNY Newly renovated 2 BR’s, 1.5 baths. Full Kitchen Stainless steel Range & microwave, No refrigerator. Access to backyard & basement for storage. $2600 + 1 months security Utilities separate No Smoking Available March 1st (201)978-3214 40W03
EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED
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.nj.gov/jobspec/05048.htm Starting Salary $87,394. Full-time position, 35 hours per week, with full benefits package. Applications can be downloaded at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 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 40W03
KEARNY
HARRISON
E. NEWARK
KEARNY
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
IMPROVEMENT
requires a 35-hour work week with evening and rotating Saturday assignments. Salary commensurate with experience. Includes generous vacation, pension and health insurance benefits. Please send or email resume by 3/16 to:
Donna Romeo, Director Lyndhurst Public Library 355 Valley Brook Ave. Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 romeo@lyndhurst.bccls.org 42W02
Kearny High broadcast students selected for festival
Kearny High School broadcasting students Jasmine Viera and Aurora Latona have been selected for the 24th annual Garden State Film Festival for their documentary video project, which discusses the history and closing of the Lincoln Theater. It be featured in the statewide event this spring.
The students’ work was entered into the “New Jersey Hometown Documentary Short” category, which required participants to write, direct, film and edit a project of five minutes or less focusing on arts, culture or history in their hometown.
Under the direction of teacher Ryan Miller, the students utilized B-roll and images of the historic theater to tell its story. The documentary features KHS students Bryanna Albino, Sean Orlowicz and Dorian Fasciano, as well as Kearny Public Library Director Josh Humphrey.
The Kearny High School submission is the sole representative for Hudson County in this category.
“We are incredibly proud
of Jasmine and Aurora for this achievement. Their ability to capture the soul of Kearny’s history through film demonstrates both technical skill and a deep appreciation for our community’s heritage,” Superintendent of Schools Flora Encarnacao said. “To be selected among such a small group of students from across the state is a remarkable achievement that shines a spotlight on the deep talent within our broadcasting program.”
The selected films will be screened at the festival March 28 and March 29 in Asbury Park.
They will also be featured in a student film showcase at WORKSHOP 2026 on the floor of the Atlantic City Convention Center Oct. 20 and Oct. 21.
The winning film will be announced Tuesday, March 24 at the Brookdale College Arena, where the NJSBA will award the winning school district $500 to support student filmmaking equipment.
The video itself will be released to the public following the official premiere March 28.
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Continued from Page 1
lon (nee Bierne) emigrated from County Mayo and his maternal great-great grandparents, Kyren and Maria Watson (nee Walsh) emigrated from County Kilkenny. The Watsons settled on Warren Street in Harrison and the Conlons settled on Halsey Street in Newark, where Michael was a tailor and Bridget a seamstress. The Conlons later relocated to East Newark.
Michael was born in Clara Maass Hospital, Belleville, to Thomas and Regina Conlon (nee Snodgrass) and was raised in Harrison, graduating from Holy Cross School, Harrsison, and Queen of Peace High School, North Arlington. He attended and graduated from Rutgers University, where he met his future wife, Martha. Beginning in his youth and continuing today, Conlin is a long-time member, supporter of, volunteer for and parent of Scouts. His children Brianna and Aidan are Scouting participants. He has served as Grand Knight of Knights of Columbus Council 402, Harrison, and Faithful Navigator of the Msgr. Doane Assembly of the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree, also in Harrison.
Among his most cherished experiences with the Knights, he says, is the annual Thanksgiving meal delivery effort. He has introduced his children to this volunteer activity, and they look forward to preparing and delivering hundreds of Thanksgiving meals yearly.
Conlin began a career in federal law enforcement in 1998 with the what was then known as Immigration & Naturalization Service, and then as a Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations. He served in New York City, the Hudson Valley, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Newark and overseas temporary duty in Dubai, Unted Arab Emirates, and Doha, Qatar.
Conlon retired in 2024 as an Assistant Special Agent in Charge. After federal service, he embarked on a new career as Vice
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President of Safety and Security for Extended Stay America hotels. He oversees security for more than 550 hotels in 44 states.
He is also a long-time supporter of Irish culture and arts.
Since 2012, he’s played bagpipes with the St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe band. From 2016-2019, he played bagpipes with the MacMillan United pipe band. He founded the Homeland Security Investigations Pipe Band, which plays official events for the Department of Homeland Security to include Police Week observances, funerals, academy graduations and more. The band grown each year.
He played pipes for the Secretary of Homeland Security’s 20th anniversary commemoration of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, in Washington, D.C. He has been a supporter of Irish Dance and his daughter Brianna’s efforts for the Ardmore Academy, Boyle School, Lenihan School and the Iona University Irish Dance Team.
Conlon has a long association with the United Irish Associations of West Hudson.
He served as a member of the parade committee for nearly 20 years. From 2006 to 2016, he served as parade coordinator, stepping down when he relocated to the national’s capital. Since returning to New Jersey, he has continued to serve as one of the pipers to the Grand Marshal and Deputies at the annual dinner-dance and pre- and post-parade activities.
Conlon married wife Martha (nee Moran) in 1998 in Orange and they later resided in Harrison.
Conlon’s father, Thomas, was the parade’s deputy grand marshal in 2009.
Ellen McGirr-Murray
McGirr-Murray was born Nov. 6, 1962, at West Hudson Hospital, Kearny. Raised in Harrison with her five siblings, Carol, Kathleen, Theresa, Bobby (late), Jimmy and two cousins, Mary Bridget and Willie, she attended Holy Cross School, Harrison, Washington Middle School, also Harrison, and graduated from Harrison High School in 1980.
She graduated valedictorian of Katherine Gibbs in Upper Montclair in 1985. She has worked for various CEOs, presidents and COOs throughout New Jersey.
She is married to John Murray and has three children: Lauren, Andrew and Adam. She is also grandmother to Jordan, Madison, Dyson and Delaney. She went back to school to pursue a second career in medical assisting at RETS Institute and graduated with the highest Academic Achievement Award in 2004. She says she enjoyed working in various medical disciplines including, orthopedics, pulmonology, dermatology and with primary-care specialists.
Her children were involved in sports from competition cheerleading, girls soccer, Pop Warner through high school football, lacrosse, baseball and basketball. She was a fixture at all their
games, never missing one. She volunteered for the Booster Club and Competition Cheerleading fundraisers. She has been a member of the Harrison/East Newark Ladies Auxiliary since 1993, and eventually becoming a member of the Elks Club when women were permitted to join. She also joined the Irish American Ladies Auxiliary of Kearny in 2003.
In 2005, she was delegated from the Irish American to the West Hudson United Irish Associations as a trustee, where she remains a member now delegated from the Harrison/ East Newark Elks. She has also volunteered for countless functions and fundraisers.
n
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first-ever parade. It steps off Sunday, March 15, at 1 p.m. in Harrison.
-Rami Alrabaa
