e-Newspaper for July 15, 2026 by The Observer Newspaper

Newark Mayor Dina Grilo swears in three new police officers

SO MUSH FUN

Legendary Kearny band Mushmouth dazzles crowd as part of 250th celebration

Photos by Ron Smits

here were plenty of cheers as Kearny’s own Mushmouth played in concert in a lead up to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. In the photo at left, the band sings one of the many it did that night. In the photo at right, Kearny’s Lisa Schalago, a huge fan of the band, leads her friends singing and dancing.

Registration open for Latin American Association of NJ’s mini special Olympics

The Latin American Association of New Jersey hosts its second mini Olympics for children with disabilities 9 a.m., July 26, 2026, at 300 Belgrove Drive, Kearny.

If you’d like your child to participate, send a text message to (201) 310-2883 or send an email to latinamericanassociationnj@ gmail.com. In the subject line, write: “Attendance confirmation second Mini Olympics for children with disabilities.

Include the name of parent(s) and child and the child’ s age.

Kearny firefighter applications open

The NJ Civil Service Commission has opened the application for firefighters. All Kearny residents who are eligible

NEWS BRIEFS

are encouraged to apply by Aug. 31. Requirements and an online application may be found at www.kearnynj.org.

Donations being accepted to aid those in Venezuela

Area organizers are collecting items to send to Venezuela following the deadly earthquake that has claimed the lives of more than 1,000 people and that has destroyed so much.

Items needed include face masks, syringes, disposable gloves, oxygen tanks, zinc cream, bandages, antiseptic solutions, first aid kits and canned food.

Items may be dropped off at the Five Below Lucky Corner, 10 Kearny Ave.

All items will then be sent to Union City and then onto Venezuela.

East Newark hosting park concert series

The Borough of East Newark hosts

Premier Car e TALK S

DERMATITIS

Treatment focuses on soothing the skin with gentle cleansers, regular moisturizers, avoiding known triggers, and topical anti inflammatory creams when needed. In more persistent or severe cases, antihistamines or prescription therapies may be recommended. Most types of

dermatitis are chronic and may flare intermittently and can be managed with proper 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. Common forms of dermatitis include atopic dermatitis or eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and perioral dermatitis.

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.

several concerts in the coming months at Riverfront Park’s amphitheater on Passaic Avenue.

The next concert is an 80s Revolution show July 28.

And lastly, a local artists night Aug. 28

All events kick off at 7 p.m. Bring chairs, blankets and snacks.

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 July 14, Aug. 11 and Sept. 8.

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.

News briefs are provided to readers as a public service and are published on a space-permitting basis.

Groups and organization who wish to have events, news, announcements, etc., published should send details in paragraph form (no fliers, posters) to editorial@theobserver.com at least 10 days prior to required publication.

Faxes and hand-written notices will not be accepted.

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

KPD: DRUNKEN DRIVER SMASHED INTO HALF DOZEN PARKED CARS

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

AKearny man who was driving drunk and crashing into a series of parked cars on Belgrove Drive has been arrested on numerous charges, Det. Lt. Mike Gontarczuk, public-information officer of the Kearny Police Department, told The Observer.

According to Gontarczuk:

On Wednesday, July 8, shortly before 11 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Belgrove Drive after a black Lincoln had crashed into a series of parked vehicles. An investigation by Officer Ryan Carlos and back-up officers revealed the driver of Lincoln was drunk, as he displayed several instances of alcohol impairment, performed poorly on sobriety tests and at least six bottles of alcohol were found inside his vehicle, which was impounded.

At the scene of the seven-car crash, Freddy R. Rodriguez, 36, of Kearny, was arrested. At HQ, he was charged with driving while intoxicated,

refusal to submit to chemical test, reckless driving, careless driving, possession of an open or unsealed alcoholic beverage container in a motor vehicle and failure to keep right. He was later released from custody, pending court.

East Newark hires three new cops

East Newark Mayor Dina Grilo swore in three new police officers July 8. Seen here are, from left, new officers Madelayne Cerron, a Kearny resident; Kevin Martins, a Harrison High graduate now of West Orange (also a transfer from the Newark Police Department); Rogerio Claro, a North Arlington resident and Grilo. Cerron and Claro are starting the John Stahmler Police Academy July 10 while Martins heading to patrol immediately.

Photo by Billy Erezuma

Kearny, Belleville educators complete educational fellowship

JerseyCAN, a statewide advocacy organization in New Jersey founded to ensure access to highquality public schools for every child regardless of zip code, cultural background and socioeconomic status, graduated its 2025-26 cohorts for the New Jersey Teacher Leader Policy, Parent Champions for Strong

Schools and Student Civic Leaders Fellowships.

JerseyCAN developed the fellowships to support the three key stakeholders within New Jersey’s education landscape and to drive greater advocacy in education policy across the state.

One Kearny and one Belleville educator were part of the cohort.

Now in its sixth year of service, JerseyCAN expanded its successful suite of fellowships to include a new program designed and curated explicitly for public school students, which launched with students from the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD).

Participants in JerseyCAN’s fellowships discuss the latest

policy trends and issues in New Jersey education, deepen their understanding of the state’s education challenges and are empowered to develop the solutions needed at the local and statewide levels to improve public education in the Garden State.

In addition, each unique program utilizes JerseyCAN’s

strong relationships in Trenton and in school districts throughout New Jersey, providing each fellow multiple opportunities to learn from state elected leaders, meet influential educational experts to gain needed perspective on various policies, expand their own networks, build direct relationships within the New Jersey education space, and learn and develop engagement and advocacy skills to ensure their participation in future education issues.

Each cohort meets throughout the school year, with graduation serving as a culminating event in which each fellow shares key milestones from their work and outlines plans to continue their advocacy.

The Parent Champions for Strong Schools Fellowship is an opportunity for parents in New Jersey to learn and engage in education policy and advocacy at the state and local levels. Parents learn both education policy content and advocacy strategies and tools. Each fellow is focused on self-selected specific goals and demonstrating their advocacy publicly.

Maria J. Andrade, of Kearny, advocated for the development of a community-based Summer Career Pathways Pilot Proposal focused on student engagement, learner self-awareness, and UDL strategies..

“My fellowship with JerseyCAN strengthened my commitment to ensuring families have the information and access they need to make the best educational choices,” Andrade said. “It reinforced that real change happens when we equip communities with knowledge and elevate their voice in shaping better systems.”

Vanessa Johnson-Pearson, of Belleville, advocated for stronger collaboration among families, educators and literacy specialists by promoting shared use of student-assessment data to design individualized literacy plans and close reading achievement gaps.

A MANY SPORT CHAMP! THE JIM HAGUE OBSERVER FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

It was a couple days before Lyndhurst’s meet at Hasbrouck Heights and Rich Tuero needed another girl for the triple jump. The first volunteer, unsurprisingly, was Tuero’s best athlete, Nikalena Iacono.

Iacono’s lack of experience outside of indoor meets as an underclassmen, or an already busy slate with the throwing events, didn’t matter to her. It was an opportunity to help the team and accept a new challenge.

“I needed a third for the triple-jump relay at the Aviator Relays,” head coach Tuero said. “We were concerned because we lost our third girl. And Nikalena was like, ‘Coach, I’ll do it.’ I’m like, ‘Alright, I just need you for practice for one day and we’ll make it work. If you jump 30 feet, we’re going to win the relay because I know what Jaylin (Vuono Reid) and Hanna (Akegnan) are going to do.”

Despite having just one prac-

tice in the event, Iacono went out and jumped 31-plus feet to help give the Bears the gold. And while it wasn’t Iacono’s best performance in four years at Lyndhurst, none better represented her versatility and willingness to do what was needed in that moment.

“My best friend does (triple jump), so I watched her to kind of get the concept of it. We tried to get my mark and get my step and then they were helping me with the landing a little bit,” Iacono said. “We tried to fix a little technique of what I could pick up on. When we went to the meet, I still never even had an exact mark. It was kind of a guessing game. I was kind of just running and hoping for the best.”

Iacono’s eagerness and ability to thrive in any position, any sport, any moment, makes her

The Jim Hague Observer Female Co-Athlete of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year.

The annual award, which honors the top local male and female senior athletes who excel

in multiple sports. The awards were established by Hague as part of his 20-plus year career as The Observer’s sports writer and were renamed in his honor following his death in 2023.

Iacono becomes the third-consecutive Lyndhurst girl to receive the honor, joining former Golden Bears Julia Tozduman and Asya Akar.

This is just the third time in the awards’ 24-year history there were co-athletes of the year. The other recipient of this year’s Jim Hague Observer Female Co-Athlete of the Year will be revealed and profiled in next week’s issue.

“I think it’s just great to be able to get involved in as much and try as many things as you want to,” Iacono, who said her parents Valerie and Anthony put her in just about every sport imaginable growing up, said. “I feel like some people focus on one thing and you do miss out on getting the experience of another sport that you might’ve also enjoyed. I wanted to do it all and get involved as much as possible.”

At Lyndhurst, Iacono lettered in soccer, indoor and outdoor track, flag football and softball. Off the field, she also served as senior class President of the school’s Student Government Association, Vice President of Future Business of Leaders of America Club, President of the Wonder Girls Club and Managing Editor of The Lighthouse, Lyndhurst High School’s student newspaper.

“So many kids want to focus on one thing, one sport, one activity and be great at it. She over-schedules her life and dives into as much as she can and doesn’t ever show signs of not being able to handle it all,” Lyndhurst girls soccer and girls indoor track head coach Kimberly Hykey said. “She wants to be busy and she never reached that moment where she was overwhelmed. I think she would’ve been worse if she wasn’t busy. She just needs to be on the go.

“She does all these clubs, all these extracurriculars. She’s so well-rounded, it’s absurd actu-

ally. She exceeds expectations in the classroom, in her extracurriculars, in her sports. I don’t know where she found the time, but she always did.”

Iacona added: “I am very proud that I was able to do so much and do well in multiple sports rather than only playing one.”

It was that desire for new activities that brought Iacono to track & field the winter of her freshman season.

Hykey and assistant coach James Day were already familiar with Iacono from coaching her in soccer and encouraged her to do indoor track in the winter.

Iacono, who did competitive cheer when she was younger and played basketball in eighthgrade, considered those options, ultimately choosing to do track, envisioning herself as a runner.

“Track was never necessarily on my mind, but I was like, ‘all right, I have to do something,’” Iacono said, noting she had done

Photo by Kevin A . Canessa Jr. Nikalena Iacono is the 2026 Jim Hague Observer Female Athlete of the Year. She is seen getting her award from The Observer owner Lisa Feorenzo.

Harrison Summer Volleyball Leagues remains strong in 10th year

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Anthony Sabia admits its sometimes difficult to fully wrap his head around just how much volleyball has grown in Harrison and the surrounding area since he played for the Blue Tide in the early 2000s.

But if the always-busy boys volleyball coach at Harrison needs a reminder, all he needs to do is take a look at the high school gym this summer.

This July marks the 10th year of the Harrison Recreation Summer Boys and Girls Volleyball Leagues. Both leagues of 10 play on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the high school. In addition, both Sabia and Blue Tide girls coach Madison Lucas hold open gyms each week and from August 11-13, Harrison will host its first youth volleyball camp.

“It’s (sometimes) hard to take a step back and recognize the amount of people that are participating. The amount of kids that are into it, the amount of parents that come to stuff that are into it and the amount of alumni that come back,” Sabia said. “It really is heartwarming to see that something that meant a lot to me growing up is something that means a lot to all these kids, former athletes and parents and staff and everybody that now takes an interest in it.”

Sabia is proud that all 20 teams from a year ago are back for this summer, resulting in an even bigger list of teams that were unfortunately rejected this year.

While the teams are the same, the league is a little shorter this year due to Harrison having a new floor put in later this summer. Even with the condensed

time period, each team will have nine regular season matches plus a playoffs that is held on July 28 for the boys and July 30 for the girls.

Even with fewer games, Sabia knows the value of the chemistry and experience together the league provides for his team and others, especially for the girls teams who, incredibly, will begin fall tryouts in less than five weeks.

“It’s a lot of meaningful reps that they’re getting now in the offseason to see what their season’s about to look like,” said Sabia. “For the boys too, it’s a nice head start to get a look at what potentially are going to look like in the spring and what we need to work on in the offseason.”

Locally, Harrison, Kearny and Belleville are in the boys league, which according to Sabia has been incredibly competitive and tightly bunched through the first week, as well as reigning Hudson

County and North Jersey, Group 1 champion Hoboken and perennial Hudson County contenders St. Peter’s Prep and Bayonne.

On the girls’ side, Lyndhurst, with new head coach Dan Kesack has gotten off to a fast start as it looks to win the league for the third summer in a row. Locally, Kearny and Harrison as well as Hoboken and Bayonne are also among the early contenders.

The result is another crazy summer for Sabia and others, but to him, it’s worth it.

Said Sabia, “I’m glad that I’m able to help in whatever way I can to provide the space and the time for all these kids and people involved with these kids to enjoy the sport, get better at it, grow from it and learn from it.”

Photos courtesy of Milton Velez Photography

Pedro Silva de Freitas Carlos Herrera

ATHLETE

Continued from Page 6

a running event or two when she was younger at Sacred Heart School. “Coach Hykey recom-

mended (track) but then talking with my parents too and talking with her, I was like, ‘alright, that’s definitely something good that would keep me in shape for soccer and something new to try, something to do.’ I was kind of

open to anything and that just seemed like the best option for me.”

Ken Davie

Michelle advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600

Iacono ran in the 55-meter dash in her first meet, an event she never did again after, as well as the long jump. A couple days later, it was her first time throwing the shot put, taking sixth place in the Garfield Invitational.

Less than two months later, Iacono unexpectedly won the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 title in the shot put with a throw of 29-0.25.

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Iacono went on to play softball as planned and despite an upand-down freshman season, was set to stick with it. But a strong sophomore indoor track season that culminated with her throwing a career-best 30-0 in the Group 2 Championships contributed to a change in plans and a move to outdoor track.

“It was definitely really hard (giving up softball). I genuinely loved the sport, but I just think as I grew up, my love for it kinda changed. The drive wasn’t there,” Iacono said. “I gave it a chance my freshman year, I was so excited. Then, something was just off. It just doesn’t feel the same.

“After my second season of indoor track, I felt it’s time to make the switch. But I will say to this day, that was probably one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make so far in my life because I gave up something I loved.”

A difficult decision?

Yes.

The right decision?

It’d be hard to argue otherwise.

Iacono’s first outdoor season saw her win the first of three North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 championships in the shot put while also throwing discus and javelin.

The following spring, as a junior, Iacono threw a personal best 37-2 to take fourth at the Bergen County Meet of Champions and went on to qualify for the State Meet of Champions for the first time, finishing 18th overall.

As impressive as her sophomore and junior seasons were, it was as a senior when Iacono truly established herself as one of the state’s best.

During the winter, Iacono won the Group 2 title with a throw of 39-5 to qualify for Indoor MOC for the first time and set a school record.

In the spring, after setting a personal best 39-2.75 to win her third-consecutive North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 title, Iacono placed second in Group 2 to guarantee a second trip to the Outdoor MOC.

In what proved to be the final meet of her career, Iacono took ninth in the state with a throw of 39-4, which set a new school record.

“She worked for everything she got,” Tuero said. “She set her goals and she hit every single one of them. It would’ve been great to place at State Meet of Champions. She missed it by an inch, but the goal that day was to break the school record and she did it. I’m so proud of her.”

“I am really proud of it and I’m really grateful for the opportunity that I was given because it started from nothing,” Iacono said. “I really tried my hardest to catch up to the people that may have been doing it longer than me, maybe were stronger than me. I think that eventually, I proved that I can compete with these people. I can be at the top of the county, at the top of the state and that I do deserve to be up there.”

Iacono accomplished her success in the shot put despite lacking the prototypical height and build of top throwers, instead thriving with strength and athleticism.

The same could be said about her play on the soccer pitch.

Displaying a power game, more typical with girls several inches taller, Iacono scored 27 career goals with 14 assists.

As a junior, despite having to briefly move to defense due to a host of injuries on the backline, she led the team in scoring with seven goals and six assists.

This past year, Iacono again led the Bears in scoring, setting career-highs in goals (12) and assists (seven).

“She’s like a shark in the water, just waiting and then bounces and puts it in the net when you thought there was nothing there,” Hykey said. “She created opportunities and she worked and used her body to just create goals out of seemingly nothing. She’s so tenacious and tough in the box that she bumps people that are bigger than her off the spot.”

In the fall, Iacono will attend Penn State University, where she will major in journalism. While playing varsity sports in college is not in the cards, she does anticipate getting involved with track, soccer or flag football on the club level.

“I’m really restarting going into my freshman year, similar to how I went into my freshman year of high school,” Iacono said. “Wanting to get involved in as much as possible, wanting to try everything and then finding where I’m meant to be.”

If her time at Lyndhurst is any indication, wherever that path leads Iacono, she is sure to thrive.

The Observer’s correction policy

TPlease visit our website at: www.midrealty.com

he Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online.

Red Cross direly needs blood donations

The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage as the blood supply fell nearly 25% in June. Blood donors are urgently needed to give now to help ensure patients receive lifesaving medical care without delay. The shortage is especially serious for platelets and types O-positive and B-negative blood.

A steep decline in blood donations since the end of May has created a growing gap between supply and patient need.

Currently, Red Cross distributions to hospitals are nearly 3,500 units higher per week than expected at a time when hospitals often see higher demand for blood products

during the height of trauma season.

On top of that, busy schedules and the seasonal loss of school blood drives are driving the decline which could put patient care at risk if not reversed.

The most important way to help end the blood shortage is to book an appointment to give

blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood. org or calling (800) 7332767. As a thank you, all who donate July 13-31, 2026 will receive a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to $15 ticket price and fees).

between public perception and the reality of the nation’s blood supply:

n Less than 1 in 5 respondents understood blood cannot be stockpiled because it has a limited shelf life and must be continually replenished through volunteer donors.

Additional details may be found at RedCrossBlood.org/ July.

Blood supply misconceptions

Every donation is critical to rebuilding the nation’s blood supply, yet many people may not realize the significant impact a single donation can have on patients in need.

A recent Red Cross survey revealed a significant gap

n Only about half believed it was very likely they or someone close to them would need blood one day even though someone in the U.S. receives a blood transfusion every two seconds.

An upcoming nearby blood donation opportunity includes North Arlington, July 21, from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 129 Ridge Road.

DERMATITIS

Dermatitis refers to a group of skin conditions that cause inflammation, irritation, and often a red, itchy rash. It may result from genetic sensitivity, immune system overreactions, allergens, irritants, or skin barrier disruptions. Symptoms can range from dry, scaly patches and redness to blisters, swelling, oozing, or crusted areas. The rash may appear anywhere, depending on exposure or personal triggers. Diagnosis relies on a physical skin exam and medical history. Treatment focuses on soothing the skin with gentle cleansers, regular moisturizers, avoiding known triggers, and topical anti inflammatory creams when needed. In more persistent or severe cases, antihistamines or prescription therapies may be recommended. Most types of

dermatitis are chronic and may flare intermittently and can be managed with proper care.

Don’t wait until you’re so uncomfortable that you can’t sleep before seeing your healthcare provider about your skin. See them as soon as symptoms start so that you can get treatment. See them especially soon if you think there’s an infection, or if you’re in a lot of pain. 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. Common forms of dermatitis include atopic dermatitis or eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and perioral dermatitis.

any questions or comments to: premiercare@gmail.com

Care Associates of West Hudson is available on a walk-in

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

OBITUARIES

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

Joan E. Rocha

Joan E. Rocha (nee Hagenbush) died at home July 9, 2026.

She was 97.

Born in Kearny, she moved to Forked River 31 years ago.

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

prayer service was conducted by the Rev. Nick Connolly. Cremation was private.

Wife of the late Howard W. Rocha, she was the loving mother of Evelyn Carson (Ron), Beverly Meyler (Chris), Carol Paganelli (Dan), Perry Rocha

Shaw-Buyus Home for Services

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Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.

138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032 (201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com

Mulligan Funeral Home

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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

Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916

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

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657

(Nancy), Steven Rocha (Erica) and the late Howard P. Rocha. Sister of Ronald Hagenbush, Kristine Lambrix and the late Robert Hagenbush, she is also survived by her cherished 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Joan was a clerk in the Kearny Public Library for many years.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the American Kidney Fund or St. Jude Chil-

dren’s Hospital in her memory.

Javier G. Estevez

Javier Esteves died at home July 6, 2026.

He was 64.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Cremation was private.

Javier was a police officer in Brooklyn and was a member of

The FOP Precinct 68. He was involved as a first responder after the 911 attack at the World Trade Center.

He was the son of the late Genero and Dora and loving father of Hailley and Sierra Estevez. He was also the beloved brother of Sandra, Lesley, Amparo, Leticia, Doris and the late Omar .

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Tunnel to Towers in his memory.

Breathe better today with free asthma resources and support

(StatePoint) Asthma is a lifelong, chronic lung disease. However, for the 27.8 million people impacted in the United States, proper disease management can help them lead active lives.

To ensure that adults with asthma and the parents of children with asthma have the support they need to best manage their disease and emotional wellbeing, the American Lung Association is now offering a new comprehensive suite of programs. Focused on helping those with asthma improve their quality of life and maintain an active lifestyle with the disease, the free initiative includes three main components:

Support: As a part of the program, people can connect with Lung Health Navigators — registered nurses, respiratory therapists, certified asthma educators and certified tobacco treatment specialists, who provide free, personalized support, guidance and resources. Lung Health Navigators meet with people one-on-one to answer questions about asthma techniques, provide educational resources, help them navigate insurance challenges, link them with support group connections and much more. These sessions are unlimited, and can happen over the phone, via live online chat, or with video calls when it works best for the participant’s schedule.

Education: Participants get access to the proven Breathe Well, Live Well course, which is the Lung Association’s premier asthma self-management program for adults and for parents of children with asthma. The evidence-based curriculum teaches participants how to take control of their asthma, and is based on national best practices for asthma care.

Breathe Well, Live Well is the only program available nationwide that has shown to result in less severe asthma, fewer respiratory problems, and a better ability to stick to treatment plans. Participation includes the Breathe Well, Live Well Asthma Education workbook, available in digital or hard copy format in five languages.

Community: Community is critical for families living with asthma, so the program includes complimentary membership in the Patient & Caregiver Network, which provides free resources, education, and access to emerging research like clinical trials. In addition, people who sign up for the Asthma Lung Health Navigator program will receive a free air cleaner to help improve their indoor air quality (limited time only and while supplies last).

To learn more and to sign up, visit Lung.org/navigator. There is no cure for asthma. The good news is that proper management and control can help people with the condition live a normal, healthy life.

Major Rt. 7 crash sends man to UMDNJ in chopper

A major crash on the Belleville Turnpike July 11 near the two overpasses sent two to the hospital with serious injuries and is intubated.

According to the Kearny Police Department:

One driver, who was in critical condition, was flown out medivac by NJSP with an open femur fracture, a brain aneurysm, shattered arms amongst other broken bones. That person is currently intubated and in ICU.

Another driver refused medical attention.

The third driver in was taken to UMDNJ with a broken foot, broken ankle and a fractured clavicle.

His passenger had stomach pains.

According to Sgt. Richard Poplaski Jr., two cars were traveling west on Rt. 7 by the overpasses, heading toward Kearny and North Arlington.

A second car tried to pass the first car, while moving into oncoming traffic, attempted to cut in front of first car and ultimately struck head on with a third car — then he struck first car he was trying to pass.

The overtaking car driver was trapped in the vehicle and was the one flown out.

We’ll update this story as soon information is available. — CANESSA

Observer’s office

from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays. Please feel free to stop by or call (201) 991-1600.

Kearny - $549,900

1 Family Home -

Ranch Style, Beautifully maintained, 2 bdrms, 2 full baths, comfortable lvgrm & dining rm, fully finished bsmt. Oversized driveway & yard, detached garage, central air, close to many conveniences & commuting.

bath. Includes garage, off-street parking, separate living spaces. Located near train station, shopping, schools, major transportation routes. Ideal for investors or owner-occupants looking. Versatile multi-family property w/ endless possibilities!

Kearny

BELLEVILLE 1 Bedroom , located on Garden Avenue, laundry facilities on site, heat and hot water included, 1 parking space, no dogs, great for single person or couple, $1,500.00 per month, 1 1/2 month security.

Call Joanne 973-6993146 08W03

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

HARRISON Newly renovated 112 Passaic Ave. 1st floor. 3 BR’s, Kitchen, LR, Bathroom, $2500 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking Available July 1st (973)7044246 09W03

HARRISON 2nd floor 2

BR, with 1 Bath, LR. Eat in Kitchen & refinished floors. No Pets $1650 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Available Now (201)376-7464 10W03

HARRISON 2nd floor

2 BR, with 1 Bath, LR. DR. Newly remodeled kitchen with granite tops & refinished floors. No Pets $2000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Available Now (201)376-7464 10W03

HARRISON 1 bedroom, modern bath, 2nd floor.

$1,625/mth plus 1.5 mth security. Good credit a must! Available Now (973)985-8486 10W03

HARRISON Recently Renovated apt on John St. 1st floor 3 BED also big deck. EIK, LR, BATH $2,485/mth plus 1 mth security. Available August 1st HABLAMOS ESPANOL (201)988-5770 10W03

KEARNY 3rd Floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK 1.5 months security, Utilities separate, credit required No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)998-0509 08W03

KEARNY 3rd fl. 2 BR, LR,EIK $1400 + 1 months security Utilities Separate . No pets/ Smoking Avl. Now. (973) 583-7670 09W03

KEARNY 3 BR’s, $2050 + 1.5 months security Utilities Separate, No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 08W03

KEARNY 2nd floor. Large 2 BR’s + Computer room LR, DR, EIK & Pantry, Hardwood floors. Walk in Closet. $2250 + 1.5 months security. Utilities not included. No Pets/Smoking. By appointment only Avail Now (973) 309-5773 09W03

KEARNY 2 BR’s, LR, EIK $1850 + 1.5 months security Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking, Access to Yard Available Now (201)772-9965 08W03

KEARNY $875/Month Private room in a quiet, clean home. Shared bathroom and kitchen. Available ASAP Seeking working, mature, respectful woman. No smoking. Call/Text: 201-428-7000

KEARNY $875/mes — Cuarto privada en una casa tranquila y limpia. Baño y cocina compartidos. Disponible de inmediato. Se busca mujer trabajadora, madura y respetuosa. No fumar. Llamar o enviar mensaje: 201-428-7000 09W03

KEARNY 1st floor, 2 BR, EIK, LR, full bath, HW floors, quiet street, heat supplied, No pets/ No smoking $1950 + 1 months security, 1 year lease, available August 1st (347)978-5882 09W03

KEARNY Large 1 BR, LR, EIK , $1750 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. NYC view, Available August 1st (973)508-4209 08W03

KEARNY Newly renovated 2nd Floor 2 BR, LR & EIK $2050 + 1 months security Utilities not included, No Pets/Smoking Available Now (908)675-2549 08W03

KEARNY 3rd Floor. 1 BR, EIK, $1650 + 1.5 months security. Utilities not included. No pets/smoking. Avl. Now. By appointment only (973) 309-5773 09W03

KEARNY Renovated 2nd floor 2 BR’s, LR, Kitchen & Bath. New floors. Walk-in-Closet. $2000 + 1.5 months security Utilities separat. No Pets One Parking Space Available Now (201)889-4490 09W03

LYNDHURST Studio

$1,650/mth H/HW included. 1 bedroom

$1,795/mth H/HW included. 3 bed $2,350/ mth H/HW included. No Pets Available Now (973)760-4877 10W03

NUTLEY 2nd Fl. 2 BR’S , 4 room apt for rent. Move In condition

Large EIK, LR , HW floors, AC provided $1,900 + 1.5 months security, 1 Cat, No smoking, Close to NY transportation. Call Tom 973-517-7517

Available 08/01 Credit check a must Leave a verbal message 09W03

N ARLINGTON 1 bedroom, Lg bedroom with extra closet H/HW included. Near transportation. $1,700. 1.5 mth security. Available Now. (201)997-0009 10W03

N.ARLINGTON Studio $1350 + 1.5 Months security. Utilities included. No Pets/No Smoking. 1 person only. Available Now (201)428-8815 Leave text message 10W03

BELLEVILLE 1 or 2 people Everything included. Shared Kitchen & Bath. Laundry room Available now. Please Call (973)536-6559 10W03

L.B.I. Ocean Front. 2 bedroom sleeps 6. 2 baths. $4,100/week. Last week of July and last week of August available. (201)9970009 10W03

Washington School in Kearny names May & June Students of the Month

John Adamski, principal of Washington School, Kearny, announces the school’s May and June 2026 Students of the Month:

May: Mehily Abrahamzon Martinez, Genevieve Antal, Ailiyani Bonilla Martinez, Alexander Brand, Asher Cabrera Adames, Joel Cardenas Argudo, Valentina Carrion, Daniela Chavez Prado, Jacob Chiriboga, Valentina Costa, Vincent Diaz, Jose Dos Santos, Aeryn Duryea, Kenneth Garcia Estrada, Kayleb Giron, Daryl Gonzales, Jacob Gutierrez-Lopez, Viviana Hempel, Rose Holloman, Luke Jimenez-Macias, Nadeen Lakehal, Aiden Lin, Louis Lucero Penaranda, Izayah Manzanares, Jessialys Marrero Velez, Hinata Martinez Cohetero, Aniel Medina-Diaz, Allen Mendoza, Janvie Miranda, Zahir Molina-Zayas, Sebastian Morales Guzman, Matthew Pastuizaca, Caleb Pelaez-Tiburcio, Thiago Ramirez Murillo, Ruby Rodriguez, Karen Rojas, Zoe Romero Alvarez, Jefferson Rosario, Julieta Salazar Vargas, Lia Santana Elsevyf, Gustavo Sarango Umana, Kaelyn Seminario Urrutia, Ariana Shimabukuro, Jinsei Shimabukuro, Skender Sosa Hernandez, Alejandro Tavarez, Haniel Valdez, Alius Valle, Nafissa Vasquez, Edwin Villavicencio Haro, Mia Wagner-Martinez, Jadiel Zambrano and Helen Zuluaga Munoz.

N.ARLINGTON Newly renovated, 1 BR,EIK $1700 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate No Dogs Available August 1st (201)7029981 10W03

N.ARLINGTON Studio apartment with kitchen in apartment complex. $1650.00 per month with heat and hot water supplied. Parking available. Laundry room on premises. Close to buses and shopping. No pets or smoking. Call 201-997-2341 between 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. 09W03

2 Single Car garage for rent, 3 Parking spaces (862)571-4823 08W03

3000 Sq ft commercial building for Office or Warehouse lease or Partial. (862)571-4823 08W03

June: Malak Ahniche, Edwin Alao Rivera, Genevieve Antal, Jeremiah Biet, Isabella Bocanegra Espinoza, Brysen Bonilla Martienz, Youssef Bouferdou, Valentina Castro, Jordynn Chipelo, Saad Dabaji, Maya DaFonseca, Davi De Freitas Gabriel, Kendrick De Paula Taveras, Miguel Denadai, Anthony Diaz, Camila Estrada, Bruce Falconi Rosado, Ethan Fred-Zayas, Jacob Gallegos, Daryl Gonzales, Savannah Guerra, Ean Gutierrez Estrella, Leena Heddaj, Isaac Live Silva, Hinata Martinez Cohetero, Isabella Martinez, Rodnier Medina-Diaz, Jacquelyn Moore, Christopher Ortega, Ezekiel Perez Mejia, Ainara Perez, Domenica Pinos Gonzalez, Emmanuel Rivera, Sarai Sundar, Jeremy Tejeda, Alana Torres, Landon Wagner Martinez and Gavin Zambrano.

The Observer’s office is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays. Please feel free to stop by or call (201) 991-1600.

HARRISON

*Roofing *Siding *Repairs *Coatings Tired of high Estimates? Call Bruno (973) 906-8404 (908)

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED

HR Officer (Bayonne, NJ) $94,328/yr. Bnfts: Med/ PTO Perform HR functions for a multi-state logistics co. w/ approximately 100 employees across US operations & rltd duties. Master in HR Mgmt or rltd, & 3 yrs HR or recruitment exp in logistics industry: workforce planning a full-cycle recruiting across all organizational levels; compensation & benefits admin; workforce integration in M&A; dvlp commission prgms & employee training; HR data analysis & legal compliance; terminations, layoffs, employee relations, & arbitration; & HRIS, incl Workday & time/ leave mgmt s/ware. Mail res: iCube Global Inc, 169 Pulaski St, Bayonne, NJ 07002 10W01

DUST-BUSTERS

The deadline for print legal ads is at 2 p.m., every Thursday. For web, there is no deadline. If you do not receive a written response from us within 24 hours, please call our office to confirm. (201) 991-1600

The Township of Nutley, in accordance with National Flood Insurance Program regulation 65.7(b)(1), hereby gives notice of the Township of Nutley’s intent to revise the flood hazard information, generally located between the confluence with the Third River to the community border of the Township of Nutley and the City of Clifton along St Paul’s Branch. The flood hazard revisions are being revised as part of Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) Case No. 26-02-0012P, project identifier 424 Kingsland Street LOMR Application, to reflect existing conditions along St Paul’s Branch.

As a result of the revision, the floodway shall widen and narrow, the 1% annual chance water-surface elevations shall increase and decrease, and the 1% annual chance floodplain shall widen and narrow within the area of revision.

Maps and a detailed analysis of the existing conditions revisions can be reviewed at the Nutley Town Hall located at 1 Kennedy Drive, Nutley, NJ, for a public review period of 30 days following this notice. If you have any questions or concerns about the proposed project or its effect on your property, you may contact Salvatore Ferraro of the Township of Nutley at (973) 284-4951 from 8 AM to 4:00 PM Monday-Friday.

($12.00)

TOWN OF KEARNY

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

TOWN HALL ANNEX – 410 KEARNY AVENUE

KEARNY, NEW JERSEY 07032

201-955-7880,ext. 3012

FAX 201-998-5171 www.kearnynj.org

PUBLICATION

Please take Notice:

That Luis & Martha R. Maia, have appealed to the Kearny Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Town of Kearny for a variance application from the following terms of Articles and Section of the Subdivision of Land and Site Plan Review Ordinance and/or the Zoning Ordinance: Chapter 38: 38-4.2(c); 38-4.1, Schedule II, 38-5.8(e); 38-7.7, and any other variances/waivers deemed necessary by the Board at the time of hearing.

TO PERMIT:

Raze the existing non-conforming single-family dwelling and reconstruct a new, relocated, single-family dwelling on the existing non-conforming lot, on the premises located at 425 Forest Street, Block 198, Lot(s) 27 as shown on the Town tax map. This appeal is now on the Board’s calendar, and a public

hearing has been ordered for August 4th , 2026 at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Hall, 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032 at which time you may appear either in person or by agent, or attorney at the hearing of this appeal.

This notice is sent to you by the applicant, by order of the Kearny Zoning Board of Adjustment.

All documents relating to this application may be inspected by the public between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the office of the Secretary of the Board, Town Hall Annex, 410 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. Respectfully, Luis & Martha R. Maia Owners/Applicants

($20.00)

TOWN OF KEARNY

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

TOWN HALL ANNEX – 410 KEARNY AVENUE KEARNY, NEW JERSEY 07032

201-955-7880,ext. 3012 FAX 201-998-5171 www.kearnynj.org

PUBLICATION

Please take Notice:

That Vale New homes, LLC, has appealed to the Kearny Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Town of Kearny for a variance application from the following terms of Articles and Section of the Subdivision of Land and Site Plan Review Ordinance and/or the Zoning Ordinance:

Chapter 38: 38-4.2(c); 38-4.1, Schedule II, 38-5.5; 38-5.4(c); 38-5.3(2), and any other variances/waivers deemed necessary by the Board at the time of hearing.

TO PERMIT:

Raze the existing non-conforming two-family dwelling and reconstruct a new two-family dwelling on the existing non-conforming lot, on the premises located at 304 Davis Avenue, Block 222, Lot(s) 14 as shown on the Town tax map which is within 200 feet of the property owned by you. This appeal is now on the Board’s calendar, and a public hearing has been ordered for August 4th, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Hall, 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032 at which time you may appear either in person or by agent, or attorney at the hearing of this appeal.

This notice is sent to you by the applicant, by order of the Kearny Zoning Board of Adjustment.

Kearny’s Roosevelt School lists 4th-quarter honors

Antonio Moyano, principal of Roosevelt School in Kearny, announces the following students who have attained principal’s honors or honors for the fourth marking period of the 2025-2026 school year.

Principal’s Honors — Grade 6

Aysha Bah, Miranda Bernaola, Kylee Carlin, Dalilah Dager-Olea, Isadora Galiotto, Claudio Garcia, Calleigh Hassen, Shane Maass, Sophia Murray-Dominguez, Luciana Olortegui Espinoza, Valery Pastorino, Emily Peldunas,

Sophie Ponte Ponte, Noah Rodriguez, Gyan Mauro Santos Leon, Emilia Ugarte, Vitolucianno Velasquez.

Grade 5

Vita Araujo, Ayden Balogh, Keira Carlen, Dali Carrera, Al Rayan Elassa, Oliver Escobar, Emaan Gardezi, Charlotte Gracias, Lilia Koffman, Mateo Lopez, Giulianna Martinez, Diego Miranda Taday, Leonardo Moncada, Emma Principe, Katherine Stacey, Abeille Stuart, Kenny Valentin.

Grade 4 - James Adamski, Adam Azab, Lucas Bonaldi,

Charli Bruce, Kiera Byrne, Josiah Cortes, Julianna David, Dylan Davis, Mariana Lopez, Muhammad Malik, Emma Mateo, Declan McSweeney, Connor Pabst, Landon Ribeiro, Elena Rocha, Marianna Rocha, Nicolas Rodriguez, Avery Rusek, Priya Shah, Darena Sugrim, Kori Tam.

Grade 6 — Honors

Aubrey Amenta , Ashley Araque Suazo, Manny AzanzaMora, Alicia Bystrowski, Valentina Cano, Finn Corbett, Dominic Cornejo, Nicholas DeRay, Michael Dinuzzo, Mason Faria, Iris Flores,

Why you need dental insurance in retirement.

Medicare doesn’t pay for dental care.

That’s right. As good as Medicare is, it was never meant to cover everything. That means if you want protection, you need to purchase individual insurance.

Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones.

The best way to prevent large dental bills is preventive care. The American Dental Association recommends checkups twice a year.

Previous dental work can wear out.

Your odds of having a dental problem only go up as you age.2

Treatment is expensive — especially the services people over 50 often need.

Unexpected bills like $299 for a filling ... $1,471 for a crown3 can be a real burden, especially if you’re on a fixed income.

When you’re comparing plans ...

 Look for coverage that helps pay for major services.

 Look for coverage with no deductibles.

 Shop for coverage with no annual maximum on cash benefits.

Simply put — without dental insurance, there may be an important gap in your healthcare coverage.

Inc.

Sophia Henriques, Amelia Klus, Nathan Leroy, Manuela Machado Rocha, Nicolette Martinez, Aldrian Xan Mendoza, Noah Menendez, Nathaly Morocho, Nicole Orellana, Ivy Roberts, Nicolas Rodriguez Gamarra, Bo Shockley, Shawn Sullivan, Danna Torres Gil, Corinne Young.

Grade 5

Dylan Alda, Emily Brown, Ana Costa, Ava Costa, Gabriel Costa, Adrina Cruz, Joao Pedro De Azevedo Fernandez, Joseph Distano, Esteban Faican, Ramy Fakir, Eliza Gutierrez, Sofia Jimenez, Alejandro Jimenez Londono, Mia Ladine Espin,

Jonathan Maldonado, Lorelei McKenna, Stella Miguel, Nathan Richards, Aliza Shimabukuro, Liam Torero Hoces, Alice Vilas Boas, Kelly Zhinin.

Grade 4

Sara Abdelaziz, Davi Amorim, Mateo Azurdia, Lucas Barahona, David Botros, Penelope Cacoilo, Carter Correa, Bradley Crenshaw, Lucas Dager, Maria De Souza Da Silva, Nevaeh Ferreira, Hoorain Gardezi, Zoe Giron, EmmaJean Levchak, Olivia Martins, Asiel Palacios, Jenfer Pena Urbaneja, Ethan Saavedra, Dylan Serodio and Giancarlo Tecpanecatl Zaca.

Pou, Menendez award grant

U.S. Reps. Nellie Pou and Rob Menendez joined Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, Hudson County Executive Craig Guy and members of the Kearny Town Council to announce $3 million in federal funding for critical safety improvements along Passaic Avenue in Kearny. While final construction plans are still being developed, the funding will support roadway, pedestrian and bicycle safety enhancements, as well as upgraded traffic signals, helping create a safer corridor anyone using the area. Seen from left are Kearny Councilman Jerry Ficeto, Guy, Pou, Menendez, Doyle and Councilman George Zapata.

Photo by Ron Smits

-Rami Alrabaa