Observer’s office will be closed Friday, July 3, in observance of the holiday.
Rusty Myers elected New Jersey
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Alocal man is taking on a significant role with the Sons of the American Legion.
Russell “Rusty” Myers III, of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 70 of Nutley, was elected state commander of the Detachment of New Jersey at the 63rd Detachment Convention in Wildwood in June.
“Brother Sons, I’m humbled and honored that you have placed your trust in me to be the face of this Detachment for
the next year,” Myers said. “I pray I’m up to the challenge.”
Being elected to that office, Myers is now responsible for leading New Jersey’s over 10,200 Sons from 130-plus squadrons across the Garden State. He is the first state commander ever elected from Nutley, and the first out of Essex County since 1990.
In a speech given at a social in Wildwood by American Legion Department Executive Committeeman Darrell Collins, of Montclair, he called Myers “Essex’s favorite Son.” In convention, with 45 squad-
rons represented, Myers was elected by unanimous vote to be the newest detachment, or state, commander with a oneyear term which ends in June 2027.
His slogan for the year is “Honoring Our Past, Serving Our Future,” with an additional focus on administrative change to adapt to changing times and technology. He calls this year’s state officer’s commitment to serving the organization and our veterans “servant leadership.”
See RUSTY, Page 4
Belleville Community Garden continues to expand
Belleville’s new and expanded Community Garden is quickly spreading its roots.
The 37 plots in Fairway Park that will soon yield rows of red bell peppers, earthy green cucumbers and Jersey tomatoes are sold out for the year.
The plots, fertile ground for sunflowers, pansies and coneflowers to grow, are reserved through requests and paid for at Town Hall.
The owners consist of residents and local
organizations; their gardening season runs from April through November.
Mayor Michael A. Melham says the success of the expanded garden promotes sustainability, healthy living and more.
“The Belleville Community Garden brings together neighbors who share a passion for literally getting their hands dirty,” Melham said. “The sharing of hand trowels, pruners and gardening tips on spring afternoons fosters a community within the community.”
Said Mayor-Elect Frank Velez: “The expansion of the Belleville Community Garden is a reflection of where we’re headed as a township — building spaces that are inclusive, sustainable and alive with community spirit. I’m proud to see Fairway Park growing into a destination for all of Belleville.”
The new garden is double the size of the previous one, and just one of the improvements that have been made at Fairway Park, at 10-44 Riverdale Ave.
“Future improvements coming this year will include a new ball field and river walk,” Banda said. “We are pleased with the progress and look forward to more enhancements for our residents to enjoy.”
— CANESSA
Township Manager Brian Banda said not only is the garden double the size of its predecessor, but residents also stop by to use the new basketball courts, inclusive playground and dog park.
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.
of Columbus will receive the relics of Mexican martyrs this week and exhibit them at Queen of Peace Church Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. Queen of Peace Church is also the home of the Archdiocese of Newark’s saintly relics in the vestibule of the Ridge Road entrance. If you bring an object, and touch it to a relic, your object then becomes a third-degree relic.
NEWS BRIEFS
ervations must be made by Wednesday, July 8, by calling (201) 988-0183. The Knights ask those attending to donate a non-expired, non-perishable canned good for the “Food for Families” project.
Delafield Avenue. Patriotic music will be be performed by The Bell Tones, The New Orleans Renaissance Jazz Band. After the concerts, fireworks will go off at the Little League Field, Riverside Avenue. All are invited to attend.
Museum program will celebrate America’s 250th
Knights hosting charity BBQ
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.
QP Knights hosting Mexican martyr relics
The Queen of Peace Knights
On Sunday, July 12, the Queen of Peace Knights will host its annual benefit BBQ for Deborah at 1 p.m. at the Hall. The cost is $25 per adult and $15 for kids aged 6 to 11. All of the proceeds will go to support Deborah, the world renowned heart and lung Hospital. Res-
Advertising: Here is the updated template with a new photo of Jarlynn Hyde:
The Kearny Museum hosts an event entitled “Ben & Betsy” on the main floor of the Kearny Library Friday, July 10 at 6:30 p.m. Professional re-enactors will bring Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross to life right here in Kearny to help celebrate America 250. Admission is free; refreshments will be served.
Lyndhurst celebrating 250th with concert, fireworks
The Township of Lyndhurst hosts its 250th birthday celebration Wednesday, July 1, from 4 to 8 p.m., at Township Park,
Real Estate
VA LOAN LIMITS AND QUALIFICATIONS
The Bureau of Veterans Affairs removed limits on VA loans for veterans with full entitlement back in 2019, giving veterans even more buying power than a conventional conforming loan. This also helps veterans avoid jumbo loans, which have stricter qualifications. Veterans have long enjoyed the benefit of being able to purchase a home without a down payment, even though many choose to make one anyway. Without the barrier of a down payment, more veterans are able to become homeowners. A veteran with full entitlement is one who has never used their VA loan benefits before. If you have used these benefits in the past, there are ways to restore yourself to full entitlement in the future. VA loans, jumbo loans, FHA loans fixed-rate mortgages, conventional loans, seller financing—there are all kinds of loans, mortgages, and lending programs available. Which one is right for you? We can point you in the right direction to find the professionals who can help you chose the most appropriate financing for your dream home. You can rest assured that we will be with you all the way in your next real estate adventure that requires considerable experience. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”
P.S. If you don’t have full loan entitlement as a veteran, you can still buy a home using a VA loan, with limits. Those limits are based on the county in which you live and whether or not you’re making a down payment. Visit out website at: www.midrealty.com
Inc. 572 Kearny Avenue • Kearny, NJ 07032 Office: (201) 991-5719 • Cell: (201) 602-7222
Please visit our website at: www.midrealty.com Michelle advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600
East Newark hosting Riverfront Park concert series
The Borough of East Newark hosts 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.
Guy seeking second term as Hudson County Executive
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Hudson County Executive Craig Guy will seek a second term. He announced he is running for re-election last week.
“I truly love Hudson County and believe the work we do out of this office makes a huge difference in people’s lives every day,” Guy said. “While I am proud of all we have accomplished on behalf of county taxpayers over the last few years, I am very focused on the work in front of us. In these turbulent times, with the chaos and confusion out of Washington, it is important that everyone knows my determination to continue leading the
fight to protect our immigrant population and provide stability, safety, and security for every county resident.”
While serving as county executive, Guy says he has focused on initiatives to improve residents’ quality of life, provide increased cost efficiencies throughout county government and bolster safety efforts throughout the county, including:
n Strong and effective relationships with county mayors and municipalities: He’s worked with every county mayor to make sure each has the necessary resources at the county level during this year’s historic blizzards.
Guy devoted significant resources and man hours to make sure two new mayors in Jersey City and Hoboken had
dedicated staff and funding to avert a crisis.
n Affordable housing: An ambitious
Thiele-Reid wins Little League championship
plan for additional county-owned housing projects in Jersey City.
n Food security: Expansion of client-choice food pantries in Hoboken and Bayonne, plus a coordinated response to the SNAP crisis during last year’s federal government shutdown.
n Public safety and mobility: Continued implementation of the Vision Zero Action Plan, including safer streets, bike lanes, shared-use paths, and a Bus Rapid Transit feasibility study.
n Open Space and recreation: Funding for new parks, trails, pavilions, and playgrounds, with a focus on historic preservation and supporting local minority-owned contractors.
CHERNEY INCISION
Kayla&Zach
Rick and Lorry are delighted to announce the engagement of their daughter, Kayla, to Zack, son of Tonia and Mark.
Family and friends gathered to celebrate the happy couple at a special engagement party held at Lassoni Ristorante in North Arlington on June 20, 2026, where loved ones toasted to their future together.
The families are thrilled for Kayla and Zack as they begin this exciting new chapter in their lives. A wedding is planned for the fall of 2027.
The Cherney incision is a type of surgical cut made just above the pubic bone to allow surgeons good access to the lower belly area. Instead of cutting through the rectus muscles, the surgeon detaches tendons from the pubic bone, lifts the muscles upward, and continues the surgery deeper inside. This method offers better visibility during specific pelvic procedures compared to a standard horizontal cut, or Pfannenstiel incision, but avoids cutting muscle tissue. It is often used in gynecologic or urologic surgeries like hysterectomies or prostate procedures. While it takes slightly longer than other techniques, the Cherney incision usually results in a strong healing wound and good surgical exposure, making it a solid option for complex pelvic surgeries. It’s natural to feel a bit anxious if you’re scheduled for a surgery. Knowing what to expect from your surgical experience can help you feel more at ease. If you’re receiving anesthesia, your care team will discuss it with you during pre-surgery testing or at a pre-surgery appointment with your anesthesiologist or surgeon. To schedule an appointment, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B. P.S. Some risks with the Cherney incision include possible nerve injury if retractors are placed too deeply, or bone inflammation if the tendons are reattached incorrectly.
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
Guy
Thiele-Reid defeated FMBA in two games with a score of 7-1 and 5-1 to finish the season with a 15-1 record, outscoring opponents 187-45, in winning a town championship. Pitchers totaled 180 strike outs on the season, with Nicholas DeRay and Jadiel Maldonado anchored the pitching. Offensively, all players contributed to the season with every player getting multiple hits on the year. Finn Corbett led the team with only two strike outs at the plate during the year. The team includes, from left, front row, Bo Shockley, Kenny Valentin, Nicholas DeRay, Finn Corbett, Jadiel Maldonado, Allen Rangel, Jason Lonnay and Josiah Cortes. Back row, from left, Head Coach Jack Corbett Jr., sponsor Steve Thiele, Ethan Saavedra, Michael Dinuzzo, Jose Vargas, Assistant Coach Justin Avitable, Vincent Avitable, Assistant Coach Jack Corbett Sr. and Assistant Coach Jack Corbett III.
Nutley cancer foundation hosts water-lantern festival
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The Greater Nutley Cancer Foundation and Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci recently hosted the inaugural Water Lantern Festival recently at Memorial Park I (the Mudhole). The event offered the
community a chance to honor, remember and celebrate all those touched by cancer.
After giving a brief history of the GNCF, Tucci recognized the hard work of the dedicated volunteers of the GNCF.
“The GNCF board is second to none,” Tucci said. “The volunteer work that they do is wonderful.
They do it all from the bottom of their hearts. Deidre (Hollywood, GNCF president) is a great leader. Their efforts are just phenomenal, and they just keep getting better and better every day. Our goal is to grow, get bigger grants and (to) keep hosting fun, meaningful events like this Water Lantern Festival. A massive
shoutout to the board, to Deidre for her leadership, and to our Parks Department, who designed this memorial area and keep it looking great. Thank you all for being here.”
The festival was an evening of reflection and unity, as attendees
released lanterns on the water at the Mudhole in tribute to cancer survivors, those currently battling the disease and loved ones lost. Water lanterns were purchased at the event, with all proceeds going to benefit the Greater Nutley Cancer Foundation.
RUSTY
Continued from Page 1
A member since 2018, Myers has served at various levels throughout the SAL — at the local squadron, county, state and national level. He currently serves as the editor of “The Millennium” — the newsletter of the Sons of The American Legion —
on the National
# 27OA00646200
and Communication Commission. He has also served as Detachment Vice Commander, Detachment Adjutant, Legislative Chairman, Children and Youth Commission Chairman.
These were all offices that helped him prepare for this journey to state leadership.
Myers is eligible for membership through the service of his father, Russ, who served in the US Army in Vietnam in Long Lines Battalion North, 1st Signal Brigade. His father is also a 55-year member of American Legion Post 155 in Whippany and performed the installation ceremony.
He lives in Nutley, with wife Meghan and their three children — Abigail, Grace and Jake — all whom are members of the American Legion Family.
July 4th at Veterans Field
Rain Date: July 5, 2026
Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, Town Council and Recreation Commission
Music by Kootz and Danny Conde Orchestra
Please bring your chair or blankets. NO ALCOHOL, NO SMOKING, NO BACKPACKS, NO COOLERS, NO PETS ALLOWED ON FIELD
TOWN OF KEARNY
SPORTS & HEALTH
SUMMER LEAGUES RAMP UP
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Perrin Mosca’s passion for basketball has always gone well beyond just coaching. Which is why even though he has not been Lyndhurst’s girls basketball coach in four years, he has remained committed to not only running the Lyndhurst Summer League alongside Lyndhurst Middle School principal Michael Rizzo, but has helped the league become as big as it’s ever been.
“I still follow the girls team,” said Mosca, who has been the Bears’ boys basketball coach the last four seasons. “Danny (Kesack), the head coach, he’s one of my best friends. So I definitely like to see them do well. “They get a chance to play and it’s nice. It’s local for them. They can come down to
play. So I like doing it for them and I do like watching them as well as refereeing some games.”
Fourteen teams are in the league, a group which includes Lyndhurst as well as fellow local schools North Arlington, Kearny, Nutley and Bloomfield.
The league, which started play on June 9, plays its games on Mondays and Tuesday at Lyndhurst Middle School and runs through July 14, giving each team 10 games in total.
“We got teams from Essex County, Hudson County, Bergen County, Passaic County. It’s good,” Mosca said. “It’s a good league. The matchups are great. There’s not really too many blowout games. Teams are playing hard. I think they enjoy it.”
With more than a decade of head coaching experience between Lyndhurst (both girls
and boys) and Hackensack, Mosca knows full well the value of playing in the summer. His boys team is currently playing a summer league in Newark, competed in a spring league at Felician University, played in a team camp at Drew University and participated in both NJBCA Jersey Live showcases this June.
For Mosca, this summer experience is all the more valuable as he looks to replace three of the top four scorers from last season’s North 2, Group 2 sectional title team, including the school’s all-time leading scorer, Johnny Chaname.
Rising juniors Filoteo Mosca, Josh Lorenzo and Esai Fernandez are the most experienced varsity players set to return for the Bears.
“We got these kids playing,” Mosca said. “It’s important, especially since a lot of new kids
are going to be playing (big roles in the winter). Since we are going to have a lot of new pieces and varsity players that didn’t play as much, I want to get these guys ready to go.”
Kesack, who enters his third season as Lyndhurst’s girls basketball coach, echoes a similar sentiment. His team looks to replace three starters from last season’s 13-13 team, but returns a talented and hungry young core led by rising sophomore Siham Al Sahmarani and rising junior Alexa Gibbons.
“I believe that it was imperative to play as many games as possible this offseason,” said Kesack. “Seven of our girls joined the same AAU team in the spring and that has carried over into summer.
“When last season ended, all of our returners knew how important this offseason would be.”
For Kearny and head coach Jody Hill, that means playing in multiple summer leagues.
Starting July 7, Hill and the Kardinals will be hosting their annual summer league at Kearny High School. The four-week league, which plays on Tuesdays and Thursdays, also features Harrison and five schools from Essex County.
Kearny is projected to return most of its lineup from last season’s 21-7 squad and is set to be led by rising seniors Makayla David, Jolianna Escalante and Vanesa Ruiz.
“It’s always great to start gelling over the summer,” said Hill, who also has open gyms on Wednesdays as well as strength and conditioning sessions at Gunnel Oval during the summer. New players get to know one another and the returning players start to get in their basketball groove.”
Photo by Jason Bernstein
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Belleville Girls Soccer Summer League continues to grow in fourth year
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
When Jennifer Alves completed her first season as the girls soccer coach at Belleville in 2022, one of her top priorities was to have a summer league for her team to play in.
“It’s important to have a summer league like ours to get the girls acclimated to playing together again after being off for a few months and playing in the warm weather again,” said Alves. “I created this one as an option for teams around our area to join. Our boys program has been running a league for five years. After their first year, I decided it would be possible for the girls to also run something similar.”
For the fourth summer in a row, that goal has been a reality. The Belleville Summer League is an 8v8 girls soccer league that plays every Wednesday with games at Clearman Field.
During this time, the league has expanded to eight teams,
including local foes Harrison and Bloomfield as well as Columbia, Memorial (West New York), Newark Tech, Payne Tech and Technology.
“The league has grown a lot of interest,” Alves said. “Each year, new teams join from the surrounding area.”
Play began on June 17 and goes through July 22. Through the first two games of the summer, Alves has already seen plenty of progression from her young core.
“Through these first two weeks of games, they have already improved,” said Alves. “The girls all play on different club teams, so getting them back together in the summer is always my main goal so we can mesh together again in the fall.”
Leading that group is a trio of rising juniors in Tiffany Silba, Isabella Campos and Krisia Perez. Perez, was an All-Super Essex Conference Colonial Division First Team selection
after scoring 11 goals with five assists last season. Silba and Campos scored four goals apiece last year for a Buccaneers team that went 6-12.
But summer is the time for
optimism and the belief that next season will be different. Fellow leaguemate Harrison is an example of that after coming off of its best season in a decade after going 14-4-1 last fall. With All-North Jersey Interscholastic Conference Patriot Division First Team selections Thalia Sosa (22 goals, 11 assists), Genesis Vallejo (16 goals, nine assists) and Adama Sowe among those set to return, expectations for the Blue Tide will be as high as they’ve been in recent memory. Bloomfield is coming off a 12-8 season in which it tied Nutley for the Super Essex Conference Colonial Division title. The Bengals are projected to return nearly the entire starting lineup from that division champion team.
Pigment dispersion syndrome is an eye condition that happens when pigment leaks from the iris and becomes trapped in the eye’s drainage system. If the pigment blocks the drain, it increases eye pressure and can lead to glaucoma. When the extra eye pressure happens over time it can affect the optic nerve and cause pigmentary glaucoma. The increased eye pressure may come and go, causing symptoms like blurry vision and rainbow halos. Untreated glaucoma causes vision loss and blindness, but pigment dispersion can be detected during a normal eye exam. Medications, laser therapy, and surgery are used to treat the condition by
relieving eye pressure because the leaking pigment is very difficult to correct (although it usually slows with age).
Because there are often no symptoms, PDS is usually diagnosed during a regular eye exam. That is why it is so important to have an eye exam with your ophthalmologist. To schedule an exam, please call 201-896-0096. Our office is located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance. P.S. Pigment dispersion syndrome and pigmentary glaucoma are more common in younger, Caucasian males who are nearsighted.
Photos courtesy of Lisa Perez
Isabella Campos
Tiffany Silba
IDEAS WORTH PRINTING
Broken records a theme at Lyndhurst this spring
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
This spring was, quite literally, one for the record books at Lyndhurst High School.
In total, four notable career records fell this past season as volleyball’s Maks Dmochowski and Jan Lesnicki, softball’s Gianna Lembo and boys lacrosse’s Alex DiMase all made their marks this spring and four each of the past four springs.
While each of them were individual accolades, the records and careers of Dmochowski and Lesnicki are understandably intertwined. Both are fouryear varsity players and have been prominent in the Golden Bears’ rise into one of the top teams in the North Jersey Interscholastic Conference.
Lyndhurst, prior to this spring had just one season with a winning record, had a breakthrough 17-8 record, five wins more than the previous program record.
dropped a five-set heartbreaker at Harrison.
a season concluding win over Newark East Side.
The game also saw DiMase reach 142 points for his career, one more than previous record-holder Matt Branco.
That quarterfinal at Harrison also saw Dmochowski set a personal-high for assists with 41 while also adding four kills, six blocks and 21 digs.
“Max and Jan were the heart and soul of our team,” said head coach Dan Kesack. “They were both four year varsity players who played a major part in establishing a culture of boys volleyball in Lyndhurst.”
The 6-foot-3 Lesnicki established himself as one of North Jersey’s premier hitters the last two years. This season saw Lesnicki, a Ramapo College commit, become Lyndhurst’s career kills leader as he finished with 586. The state tournament proved to be Lesnicki’s time to shine brightest.
In the first round of the North Jersey, Group 1 tournament, Lesnicki had a career-high 25 kills in a 3-1 victory over Technology. It was a mark that Lesnicki eclipsed just two days later when he had 29 kills with 23 digs in what proved to be his final high school game as the Bears
Dmochowski, a four-year starter, finished with a staggering 1,133 assists, the most in school history. This year saw his record 562 assists along with 39 kills and 30 blocks.
While individual records by nature, neither likely would have done it without the other, a testament to the chemistry they built together on and off the court.
“Maks and Jan had great chemistry together on the court and that came from years of hard work,” Kesack said. “They would work before practice and would always be the last ones on the court before the net was broken down.”
DiMase, who graduated as the school’s career points leader in boys lacrosse, also ended his career with a flourish, posting five goals and six assists - both career-highs in
For the season, DiMase finished with 29 goals and a school-record 36 assists.
Like DiMase, Lembo’s chase towards a record ended with an incredible hot streak.
On May 5 at Bergenfield, Lembo, a four-year starter at catcher, collected her 100th hit. At the time, a pursuit of Angela Downey’s record of 117 seemed like more of a long shot. Instead, Lembo followed her 100th hit by going an incredible 16-for-18 in her next four games with 11 runs scored.
The next game after that, on May 15 at Lodi, Lembo broke Downey’s mark when she went 2-for-5 with a run and a RBI.
Lembo went on to add five more hits the rest of the season to finish with 123 for her career. Her 52 hits this spring gave Lembo one of the greatest individual seasons in program history.
Photo courtesy of Cheryl Ruiz Gianna Lembo
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
OBITUARIES
All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
Charlotte Harris
Charlotte Harris of Kearny died June 26, 2026.
She was 87.
Visiting will be Wednesday, July 1, from 9:30 to 10:30a.m., at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. at Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Charlotte worked as a bookkeeper for many years at the Kearny Board of Education. She retired at the age of 80.
She was the wife of the late Frank Harris and loving mother of Frank Harris (Susan) and Jennifer Harris. Sister of Mary Stanton, Betty Tonner and the late George Tonner, she is also survived by her cherished grandchildren Frank and Caitlyn. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in her memory.
Jacqueline Kennedy
Jacqueline Kennedy, (Walsh), 76, died Saturday, June 27, 2026, at home in North Arlington, while surrounded by her loving family.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit at the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, 585 Bel-
grove Drive, Kearny, on Tuesday, June 30, from 4 to 8 p.m. The funeral will begin in the funeral home Wednesday, July 1, at 9 a.m., then to St. Stephen’s R.C. Church, Kearny, where a 10 a.m. funeral Mass will be celebrated. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.thiele-reid.com.
Born and raised in Newark, Jacqueline later lived in Bloomfield, before moving to North Arlington in 1977.
She was a pharmaceutical technician at Pathmark in Belleville for 30 years before retiring in 2010.
Mrs. Kennedy is survived by her husband, James Kennedy;
two children, Kelly Logue and her husband Brian and James Kennedy and his wife, Jaclyn. She was the beloved grandmother of Jack, Owen, Braidan and Casey Logue and Grace and James Kennedy.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Kimberly Kennedy, her parents, John and Eleanor (Schoen) Kennedy, two sisters, Carol Bauer and Sharon Mulligan and one nephew John Mulligan.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association at www. alz.org.
Marty W. Vena
Marty W. Vena died unexpectedly at home on June 14, 2026, at the young age of 53.
Shaw-Buyus
Born in Jersey City to his loving parents, Robert and Barbara (née Hanvey) Vena, Marty was a cherished son who will be deeply missed. He spent many years in Bloomfield before recently moving to Belleville.
Marty was married to his soul mate, best friend and loving wife, Amy. Together they raised two sons, Tyler (Lisa) and Justin (Morgan), who were the pride and joy of his life. He was also blessed to know and love his beloved granddaughters, Samantha and Hailey, who brought him immense happiness.
Marty was a kind-hearted and loving man whose warmth and compassion touched everyone he met. He had a special gift for making people feel welcome,
accepted and loved. Known for his sense of humor and larger-than-life personality, Marty brought laughter and joy wherever he went and was often the life of the party. He shared a close bond with his best friend, Dave, and held his friendships close throughout his life. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all those who were fortunate to know him.
Marty loved the New York Yankees and could rarely be seen without his Yankees hat. He found joy in life’s simple moments, whether enjoying a chat in the yard with his friends, at the beach with his family or enjoying a night out in Atlantic
Mulligan Funeral Home
331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison
Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221
Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive
Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North 973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com Wilfred Armitage &
Kearny’s Schuyler School names Students of the Month
Valerie Iacono, Principal of Schuyler School in Kearny, has announced the May Students of the Month:
Joshua Taveras Brisman, Noah Alves,Gianna Rose Vasquez Dugarte, Zayn Zahidi, Lucca QuezadaGalvez, Jose Ferreira Valim, Nayel Khan, Jeirelyn De Los Santos, Rebeca Chullo Macavilca, Zoey Pereira, Theodore Garcia, Sebastian Dotel, Miguel Silva, Amaya Padilla, Santiago Anticona, Olivia Leadbeater, Liam McNally, Anabelle Garcia Cleto, Freya Hollowell, Isabella Gomes Espinosa, Owen Bayer, Olivia McNally, Sophia Lepore, Africa Acevedo Taboada, Andrew Real-Tice, Hannah Cosmeus, Rebecca Fernades, Ozan Kirca, Millie Jo Buchanan, Ethan Solis, Rowell De Los Santos Peguero, Pahola Delgado Barranco, Aiden Varilias, Victor Garcia, Lorena Alcantara Gama, Mariah Singleton, Alianny Lora, Emmanuel Vargas-Lorenzo, Eloa Santos De Almeida and Hailey Osorio.
The Observer’s office is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. MondayThursday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays. Please feel free to stop by or call (201) 991-1600.
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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
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 06W03
HARRISON 2nd & 3rd floor apartments newly renovated 1 & 2 BR’s, Open concept EIK,Hardwood floors throughout, C/A & Heat $1900 - $2100 + 1 months security Utilities separate No smoking, Pets limited Available July 1st Text for inquiries (201)780-1892 07W03
HARRISON Renovated
Modern 2 BR, Kitchen, LR, $2200 + 1.5 month security. Utilities separate. Washer/Dryer. No pets/smoking Avl. August 1st (201) 6186984 after 11am. 07W03
KEARNY 1st floor 3 BR’s, LR, EIK $2000 + 1.5 months security Includes 1 Parking space, Laundry optional No Dogs/Smoking Available August 1st (201)702-9981 06W05
KEARNY Beautiful renovated. 2nd Floor. 2 BR. LR. DR. EIK. Bath. Hardwood Floors, Hook up in basement. No Pets/ smoking. $2200 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Available Now (201)772-8401 or (551)274-1527 06W03
KEARNY 1 Bedroom Apt. Newly renovated $1700 + 1M Security Utilities separate 3nd Fl Safe building cameras Avail 7/1 201-9550001 07W03
KEARNY 1 BR From $1500 2 BR $1,795 + 1.5 Months security. HT/HW included . See Super 6 Woodland Ave. Apt. 1 (201)892-8035 for appointment. 07W03
KEARNY 2nd floor Good location Large 2 bedroom 1 bathroom , Living room, dining area $2150 + 1 Months security Heat and hot water included. No Pets/Smoking Available July 1st contact Raj (973)405-4364 07W03
KEARNY 2nd Floor, Newly renovated LR, DR, EIK, Large 1 bedroom, use of backyard. 1.5 months security. Separate utilities. Near Schools/Transportation Available July 1st.(201)991-3366 or (201)889-2495 07W03
KEARNY
Elevated building 1 BR APT 2 Room Studios HT/HW included. $1250 - $1,575 + 1.5 Months Security. See Super, 654 Elm St, Kearny. Laundry facility on premises Call Sofia after 3pm (201)998-3516 for appointment. 07W03
KEARNY Large 1 BR, LR, EIK , $1750 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. NYC view, Available August 1st (973)508-4209 08W03
KEARNY 3 BR’s, $2050 + 1.5 months security Utilities Separate, No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 08W03
KEARNY 2 BR’s, LR, EIK $1850 + 1.5 months security Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking, Access to Yard Available Now (201)7729965 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 2 BR’s, LR, EIK 1.5 months security, Utilities separate, credit required No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)998-0509 08W03
LYNDHURST Large 1 bedroom. 1.5 months security. No Smoking No Pets. Call (201)9319212 08W02
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 06W03
N.ARLINGTON 2nd floor 1 BR, LR, EIK, BATH, 3 Big closets $1750 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate, Close to Transportation No Pets/Smoking, Couple or single person Preferred Available now Hablamos español (201)889-3110 07W03
KEARNY Newly renovated, Your own sink and refrigerator, is available for single occupant. Located in lovely home, in desirable neighborhood, easy access to transportation No smoking/pets Gentlemen preferred Good credit and 4 weeks security required $155 per week text or call Pamela (973)830-7498 06W03
KEARNY Private entrance $500 + 1 month security. Utilities not included, no cable.No Pets/Smoking Avl. now. (551) 396-4145 08W01
HARRISON 2 Single Car garage for rent, 3 Parking spaces (862)571-4823 08W03
HARRISON 3000 Sq ft commercial building for Office or Warehouse lease or Partial (862)571-4823 08W03
KEARNY for single person Share Bath & Kitchen $750 + 1 months security , Utilities included No Pets/Smoking Available now (973)5738365 06W03
N.NEWARK Forest Hill section. $500 + 1 months security. Utilities included. Shared Bath, No Kitchen. Perfect for single, responsible person. No smoking (862) 352-0385 07W03
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
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY CHANCERY DIVISION ESSEX COUNTY
DOCKET NO. F-005793-26
OUR FILE NUMBER: 25-016460-1
NOTICE TO ABSENT DEFENDANTS
STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO: Olatunbosyn Awope and Salome Awope
YOU ARE HERBY summoned and required to serve upon Padgett Law Group, plaintiff’s attorneys, whose address is 1055 E. Baltimore Pike, Suite 201, Media, PA 19063, telephone (850) 422-2520 an answer to the Foreclosure Complaint in a civil action in which Planet Home Lending, LLC is the plaintiff and Olantunbosyn Awope and Salome Awope are defendant(s) pending in the Superior Court of New Jersey within 35 days after July 1, 2026 exclusive of said date. If you fail to do so, judgment by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint. You shall file your answer and proof of service in duplicate with the Clerk of the Superior Court, Hughes Justice Complex, CN-971, Trenton, NJ 08625, in accordance with the rules governing the courts. You are further advised that if you are unable to obtain an attorney, you may communicate with the New Jersey State Bar Association or Lawyer Referral Service of the county of venue and that if you cannot afford an attorney, you may communicate with the Legal Services Office of the county of venue. A directory with contact information for local Legal Services Offices and Lawyer Referral Services is available in the Civil Division Management Office in the county listed above and online at: https://www.njcourts.gov/public/directories/court-services/clerks-legal-offices. You may also call the Legal Services of New Jersey Statewide Hotline at 1-888-LSNJLaw (1-888-576-5529).
THIS ACTION has been instituted for the purpose of foreclosing the following Mortgage:
Dated: August 23, 2024 In the Amount of: $679,486.00
Made by: Olatunbosyn Awope and Salome Awope To: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Absolute Home Mortgage Corporation Recorded: September 16, 2024, as Instrument No. 2024054300 Covers real estate located at: 151 Shephard Avenue, Newark, NJ 07112 Also known as: Block 3665 Lot 81, in the city of Newark, County of Essex and State of New Jersey.
You, Olatunbosyn Awope and Salome Awope, have been made a Defendant in the above action because you have or may claim to have some right, title, lien, or other interest affected the real estate being foreclosed by virtue of ownership, inheritance, descent, intestacy, devise, dower, courtesy, mortgage, deed or conveyance, entry of judgment, or other legal or lawful right. The nature of which and the reason that you and each of you are joined as defendants is set forth with particularity in the Complaint, a copy of which will be furnished to you on request, addressed to the attorneys of the plaintiff at the above-mentioned address.
Dated: June 22, 2026
Michelle M. Smith, Esquire CLERK OF THE SUPERIOR COURT ($373.45)
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201) 991-1600 to place an ad.
EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED
Job Opening
Building Subcode Official / Building Inspector
*Roofing *Siding *Repairs *Coatings Tired of high Estimates? Call Bruno (973) 906-8404 (908) 486-0866 Estimates on the spot
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, wwwas well as a valid NJ driver’s license. Full job description can be found at https://info.csc.state. nj.us/jobspec/05048.htm Starting Salary $87,394. Full-time position, 35 hours per week, with full benefits package and PERS pension. Applications can be downloaded at https://www.kearnynj.org/ jobopportunities/Applications and resumes must be submitted to the Personnel Department at 410 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. The Town of Kearny is an equal opportunity employer
01W08
Part Time Bookkeeper
Must have accounting background, flexible hours, must learn our bookkeeping system duties to include: financials which include balance sheet, income statements, reconciliation, if interested please call Tricia at 973-284-0900 or email at: tb@patricianassoc.com 06W03
PART-TIME FIRE PREVENTION SPECIALIST
KEARNY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Seeking qualified applicant to perform fire inspections and code enforcement activities. Must possess a current NJ Fire Inspector License (Fire Official License accepted). Starting hourly rate: $33.00, up to 24 hours per week.
Full job description can be found at https://info.csc.nj.gov/jobspec/06356.htm
Applications can be downloaded at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ Resumes and applications should be submitted to the Personnel Department, 410 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. Position will remain open until filled. The Town of Kearny is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 06W03
EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED
WEB DEVELOPER
Ensure UI, cross-browser compatibility, and web standards; Build site layouts/ UIs via HTML/CSS; Integrate back-end services & DB data. Salary: $40,893/year; Minimum A.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related. Benefits package includes health, retirement and paid leave. Fax resume/letter to: 201-507-9860
Hana Cloud Solutions LLC Carlstadt, New Jersey 08W01
OBITS
Continued from Page 9
City (most likely at the craps table), he truly made the most of every moment.
A dedicated union roofer, Marty was a proud member of Local No. 8 in Long Island City, New York, and took great pride in his work and the friendships he built throughout his career.
In addition to his parents, wife, sons and granddaughters, Marty is survived by his loving siblings, Robert, Tara, and Jeff Vena, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home,
596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Thomas Church, Bloomfield. Interment was in Mount Hebron Cemetery, Upper Montclair.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Marty’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”
Carol A. Carey
Carol A. Carey (nee Salerno) died June 23, 2026. She was 83.
Private cremation was under the supervision of the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny.
Carol was the wife of the late Joseph and loving mother of Michael Carey and Ann-Marga-
ret Bosveld (Roy). She is also survived by her cherished grandson Michael.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Helen Keller School for the deaf and blind in her memory.
Patricia J. Carlson
Patricia J. Carlson (nee Joyce) died June 24, 2026.
She was 83.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass will be celebrated Tuesday at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Kearny, at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Pat was the beloved wife of the late Richard Carlson and loving mother of Karen Watson (Dan) and Richie Carlson. She cherished her grandchildren Ryan, Casey and Kyle.
She graduated from St. Joseph Nursing School in Paterson and enjoyed her 37 years at West Hudson Hospital in Kearny. She retired to assume her second full time job — helping to raise her amazing grandchildren, a very special part of her life.
Pat was a dedicated member of the Our Lady of Sorrows Rosary Society.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her memory.
Maria De Almeida
Maria De Almeida, of Kearny, died June 25, 2026.
Beloved wife of Victor and loving mother of Ariana and Ashley De Almeida, she was the cherished daughter of Rosa and the late Agostinho Barreiro.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Maria was very involved with ACP of Kearny and many facets of community health programs, especially helping the needs of the Portuguese. To list some of her many activities, Maria worked with Casa de Ribatejo, the local Portuguese news channel, the Ironbound Ambulance Squad, the Blue Knights Motorcycle group with Dr. Ben, the organization MADD (mothers against drunk driving). She was also involved with the Eastward
Community Center and the Montana Community Center. She ran the mammogram program for the Newark Police Department bus. She was also involved with the Rick Barbosa Foundation and the Roseville Avenue Presbyterian Church in the 7th Precinct. This list could go on. She was a very caring person.
Donna L. Perlee
Donna L. Perlee died June 16, 2026.
She was 73.
Private cremation was under the supervision of the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny.
Donna was the daughter of Margaret (nee Thompson) De Rogatis and the late Richard Robertson. She was fortunate to have had the late Donald De Rogatis step up to the father figure role. Her grandparents Fred and Elizabeth Thompson also played a great role in raising her.
She was the sister of Barbra Cama (Michael), Gene De Rogatis (Christine) and Liz De Rogatis, who was very devoted to her in many ways. Donna had Jan Meyer in her life. He was a loving companion. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews Emily, Andrew, Matthew, Lauren, Robert, William, Maggie, Jamieleigh, Juliet and Kayleigh. She is also survived by her great-nephew Vincent and was close with her late uncle Jack Thompson.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the ASPCA.
-Rami Alrabaa
