THE OBSERVER’S OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED JULY 3 & 4 IN OBSERVANCE OF INDEPENDENCE DAY. WE WILL REOPEN AT 10 A.M., JULY 7.
POLICE: SCAMMERS ARE OUT TO GET SENIORS
Kearny PD offers tips at Henrietta Benstead on how to avoid becoming next victim
by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.
HBy Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
ere are a number of scenarios one might face on the telephone. Now mind you, one does not have to be a senior citizen to receive these calls. It’s just scammers would prefer the phone answerer be a senior citizen since they are significantly more likely to fall for one of these.
The phone rings. The person on the other end says, “Grandma, it’s me. Can you hear me? I’ve been arrested, I am in jail and I need you to send me money for bail!” Often, Grandma will answer with a grandchild’s first name and say “Is that you, Johnny?” Right there, the scammer has his hook. You
see, Johnny is not really Johnny. It could be a scammer in India, Pakistan, Nigeria — anywhere for that matter. But Grandma loves her grandson and will do whatever it takes, whatever it costs, to bail him out.
The phone rings. The caller ID may even say “PSE&G” with the correct 800 number to the company. The caller says, “Sir, your electricity is about to be shut off. But if you can make a payment right now, it won’t be cut.” The senior citizen hears this, fears losing power, so continues to listen. “All you have to do is go buy four, $50 gift cards
See SCAMS, Page 5
COP Unit Police Commander Sgt. Jack Grimm speaks to the senior citizens of the Henrietta Benstead Center about the many dangers they could face from scammers.
Photo
KEARNY PD’S NEW MOBILE
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Around the Kearny Police Department, there is one person who, when there’s a question about technology, almost everyone goes to — Sgt. Tom Sumkowski. He’s in charge of all the cameras, radios, surveillance — all things technological. So it should come as no surprise that over the last few weeks, Sumkowski has been diligently setting up one of the greatest tech marvels in all Hudson County, if not all of northeast Jersey — the Ke-
arny Police Department’s new mobile command center.
And to start? The massive Mercedes Benz vehicle cost Kearny’s taxpayers not a single cent — the funds to purchase it all came from forfeited recovered money from illicit activities.
Sumkowski will be joined by Sgt. Richard Poplaski Jr. — known intimately as “The Ski Patrol” — as the two who will get to use this incredible vehicle when it needed, say for a barricaded subject and the link. The two — along with Police Committee Chairman and
Fourth Ward Councilman Jerry Ficeto — gave The Observer a chance to see it in person Thursday, June 26. And to say the very least, it didn’t disappoint for a second.
When one first enters the center, by climbing four stairs from the ground, it’s obvious from the get-go how impressive this vehicle is. One is greeted by nine monitors that are attached to nine cameras mounted all over the unit. There’s a joystick nearby Poplaski and Sumkowski will be able to use to move the camera mounted on a mast — whether it’s to tilt and pan or to go higher or lower to zoom in on a possible suspect or subject. The clarity of the cameras —
incredible, despite being as what Sumkowski described as “low-res.” (He hopes to replace the cameras and screens with HD monitors and cameras eventually.)
“Say we’re on Bunny Hill and we have a missing kid, we could take this (masted) camera along with the town camera that’s down there and zoom into the hill to try to locate who we’re looking for. So we can just do that so easily now,” Poplaski said.
Also, there is a PC with an HD monitor that may be used to directly tap into the Kearny PD’s computer system and com-
Continued on the next page
Outside the new mobile command center are, from left, Deputy Police Chief Paul Bershefski, Sgts. Tom Sumkowski and Rich Poplaski Jr. and Councilman Jerry Ficeto.
July 2, 2025
COMMAND CENTER IS HERE
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puter-aided dispatch, records, all the cameras installed about town, allowing the sergeants to access critical data needed during a mobile operation.
Sumkowski also purchased brackets for four more monitors to be placed along the wall so they can simultaneously monitor different camera locations, drone feeds, maps of the area and the like.
It’s all powered by a 5G cell router and modem Sumkowski recently installed, allowing for anyone using the center to have access to very fast connection speeds.
“Basically, we can do anything here you could do on a computer inside,” Sumkowski said. “and the unit could be used if, God forbid, we have something happen where we had to leave the building, like a fire, we’d be able to use this vehicle to keep things running.”
Poplaski also talked about a computer program he and Sumkowski used last July 4 that will be available for the units using the vehicle — it’s a virtual command center.
“Essentially, it will map out where your event is and it logs every single event that happened during the fireworks,” Poplaski said. “So, say we have
a missing kid, I could go in and type in ‘missing kid’ or ‘missing child’ and put a description out — and what’s nice about it is anybody who has access to this system, like our drone guys (Rich Pawlowski & Jordy Jean) — I could send a text message to their phone from that system to give them a whole descrip -
tion, what the kid’s name is, the age, so if any officer has access to that system, they can access it. And then at the end, it prints out a log with timestamps … it keeps track of everything from start to finish.”
The system will be next used Friday, July 4, during the town’s firework celebration.
The rest of the vehicle has conveniences for the folks who will have to station the vehicle. There’s a refrigerator that looks like it’s never been used before (keep in mind this is an ex-military vehicle that got little use over time.) There’s a microwave
Team Doyle — Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, First Ward Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro, Second Ward Councilman Jose Rodrigues, Third Ward Councilman Fred Esteves and Fourth Ward Councilman Jerry Ficeto — thanks you for taking the time to vote for us in the primary election in such great numbers. We are all very grateful for your support and look forward to seeing you in the coming months on the campaign trail leading up to Election Day, Tuesday, November 4.
A look at the command center of the Kearny Police Department’s new mobile command unit. It will be seen by the public for the first time at the July 4 fireworks celebration.
See MOBILE, Page 19
Guy, Doyle & Macfie collaborate to enact major safety reforms on County Route 508
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Hudson County Executive Craig Guy has announced major safety improvements to County Road 508 — known
also as the Newark-Jersey City Turnpike — in Kearny, the location of a deadly crash that took two lives May 16.
The safety improvements are in accordance with the Vision Zero Action Plan the County Executive launched in January.
“As county executive and chairman of the Vision Zero Task Force, I take the safety and well-being of all residents, visitors and families on county roads with immense seriousness. These safety improvements are common sense and
improve the conditions of County Road 508 along the Newark-Jersey City Turnpike for the tens of thousands of commuters that utilize it each day,” Guy said. “In line with our Vision Zero Action Plan,
this list of recommendations was provided to me by county officials designated to investigate the circumstances of those killed or seriously injured in crashes. My administration and I strive to improve road conditions on county Road 508 to make it safe and secure for drivers, as we do with all our county roads.”
These safety improvements include:
n Installing centerline delineators along the double-yellow center line for approximately 2,000 feet from the existing concrete median heading east under the two New Jersey Turnpike bridges and ending at the first private driveway along that stretch;
n Installing driver feedback signs at appropriate locations;
n Instituting a policy to prohibit U-turns along Newark-Jersey City Turnpike for the entirety of the road under the county’s jurisdiction.
Once the ordinance is adopted, new signage for the policy will be installed in both directions;
n Engaging with PSEG for LED lighting upgrades along the road;
n Adding pavement markings to indicate the 35-MPH speed limit and installing additional signs; and
n Adding rumble strips for the entire length of the Newark-Jersey City Turnpike.
These changes were first touted by Kearny Police Chief Scott Macfie and Mayor Carol Jean Doyle.
The majority of Macfie’s recommendations were implemented by the county.
Observer Editor Kevin A. Canessa Jr. may be reached at kc@theobserver.com. Follow him on Facebook & Twitter @ kevincanessa.
Guy
Doyle Macfie
Fourth Ward Councilman Jerry Ficeto was also on hand at the presentation to the seniors to distribute booklets to those present. The new booklets are basically a handbook of services available to Kearny’s senior citizens, published by Health Officer Annie McNair.
SCAMS
Continued from Page 1
from Target, bring them back and read me the numbers on the back. Then, you’ll be good to go.”
Here, again, is the thing — PSE&G, nor any company, would ever, ever ask one to purchase store gift cards to pay a utility, the IRS or anyone. Target gift cards are for the Target store — nowhere else. But the person on the other end of the call doesn’t know this — goes to the Target — and that money is gone forever.
There were never a chance the power would have been cut off, either.
Next, the phone rings. The caller says “This is the IRS. You have unpaid taxes from 2012 and 2013 and an arrest warrant has been issued for your arrest. However, if you go get gift cards, we can cancel the warrant — otherwise the police will be showing up at your doorstep.” Imagine hearing that out of the blue. It’s enough to send anyone — especially a senior citizen — into a great panic. So the senior follows the directives and all along, it was garbage. There was no warrant. No back taxes. It’s all part of a network of worldwide scams that have heisted billions upon billions of dollars from unsuspecting people.
It’s Americans falling for it. It’s Britons falling for it. It’s Canadians falling for it. It’s people all over.
So last week, Thursday, June 26, the Kearny Police Department’s Community Oriented Policing Unit (COP) — Sgt. Jack Grimm, Officer Janitza Aquino and Offi-
North Arlington Board of Education, even just the intention to abscond with the ministerially active, Queen of Peace LaSalle Community Center, is to stand in opposition to the Church of Jesus Christ, the Universal Church, as well as the parish community. This, in my opinion, takes unmitigated gall.
Have you no shame? Do you not fear God?
cer Ryan Brady— along with Capt. Glenn Reed and several other visiting officers, attended the Henrietta Benstead Senior Center on Columbia Avenue to offer all sorts of scenarios and tips for senior citizens to avoid becoming the next victim.
There are many others not yet mentioned, the Kearny PD says, including Medicare fraud, prescription-drug schemes, funeral scams, the sale of fake anti-aging products, an assortment of telemarketing frauds, Internet-based thievery, investment schemes, homeowners scams, you’ve won the lottery calls when you’ve won nothing (think Publisher’s Clearing House), distraction burglaries, romance scams and now, frighteningly, scams involving artificial intelligence that is so real, it’s next to impossible to know it’s not real.
Grimm pointed to one particular scam that indirectly related to the Kearny Police Department some time ago.
“A good question came up when we were at Spruce Terrace (hosting a similar event there),” Grimm said. “Do we, the Kearny PD, fundraise? Once a year, our PBA civic association does fundraise. We have a civic account that does take money in and we give it out to charity. But if you get that phone call I get two, three times a year from the ‘National Police Alliance,’ so I said, ‘I’m a police officers and I never heard of you.’ You know what the next thing I hear is? Silence. So those ‘organizations,’ I don’t know but if it does say “Kearny PD” we do raise funds once a year.”
Grimm also noted a scammer once
See SENIORS, Page 18
This is blasphemy, and I pray it will not go unanswered. And to that end, you should know that an imprecatory curse is a prayer that calls down divine judgement, or calamity, upon enemies or those perceived as enemies of God. In defense of my faith, asking others to join me, I publicly pray:
Most holy and omnipotent God, we love you and trust you.
Who are we that you are mindful of us? Your enemies are standing in front of us. Please come to our aid.
Stay your hand no longer. Make an example of them and pour out your wrath upon them; let the fury of your anger overtake them. Loose evil upon them, and drive them to their knees.
All for your great glory.
Amen.
Privately I pray that you repent, so God may have mercy on your soul.
Edward Kelley
Quasi ex officio Parishioner, Queen of Peace Church, NA Paid for by Edward Kelley
Photo by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.
SPORTS & HEALTH
Bellenger earns 2025 Jim Hague male Athlete of the Year honors
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Even before Shawn Bellenger had established himself on the varsity level in any sport at Lyndhurst High School, he had already proven to be a leader. Months before his sophomore season, Bellenger, who at the time had just a handful of snaps on his resume, was named a team captain for football.
“I knew that he was going to be the leader of the team for the next three years after freshman year,” head football coach Rich Tuero said. “The way he carried himself, just as a young man in general, I felt confident.”
From afar, it was a sign Bellenger was not your typical athlete, both on and off the field. The three years that followed,
whether it was on the gridiron, hardwood or diamond, further demonstrated that.
By the end of his senior year, Bellenger not only was a team captain in football, basketball and baseball, but an All-NJIC selection in all three sports.
Bellenger’s combination of raw athletic talent, combined with his maturity, intelligence and leadership over all three sports makes him The Jim Hague Observer Male Athlete of the Year for the 2024-2025 school season.
The annual award, which was named in honor of the late sports writer following Hague’s passing in 2023, recognizes one male and female local senior athlete who excelled in multiple. The awards were a staple of Hague’s 20-plus year career as The Observer’s sports writer.
Bellenger continues an incredible run for Lyndhurst boys. He becomes the fourth consecutive Golden Bear and fifth in six years to be named Male Athlete of the Year Overall, Bellenger is the eighth Lyndhurst boy to win the award.
“There were a lot of people that didn’t like that decision (to make him a captain),” Tuero recalled. “But in the end, he made me look good because he proved it. He just has a confidence in himself and he’s so respectful and I knew how much he cared about the game and he’s a team player. Honestly, it’s all him.”
“Being named a captain as a sophomore is unheard of and more than half of the team is all older than me so trying to lead them and trying to push them in the right direction was
definitely tough,” Bellenger said. “But it all worked out in the end.”
This year, Bellenger completed 79-of-128 passes for 1,401 yards and 14 touchdowns while throwing just four interceptions. He also ran for 426 yards and seven touchdowns on 58 carries to help lead the Golden Bears to a 7-2 record.
For his career, Bellenger, a three-year starter, threw for 3,772 yards and 39 touchdowns while rushing for 983 yards and 12 scores.
“Getting that full experience my sophomore year really helped me out,” said Bellenger. “This year was definitely my best year. Having the experience of two years starting under my belt helped me out so much mentally and physically.”
After the season, Bellenger
was named a recipient of the Tri-State Mini Maxwell Award, becoming just the third Lyndhurst player to ever earn the award.
By comparison, Bellenger’s prominence on the basketball court was far more gradual. There, Bellenger started his sophomore season on the JV team before later establishing himself as a varsity contributor a few games later.
After two seasons as a reserve, Bellenger entered his senior season as not only the most experienced member of an incredibly young Lyndhurst team, but as a captain and starter. He responded by setting career highs in points (6.3 per game), rebounds (5.9), assists (2.0) and steals (1.9), while
Continued on the next page
being tasked with guarding the opposing team’s top offensive player most nights.
Success in basketball might not have come as easily for Bellenger as it did in football or baseball, but that doesn’t mean it was any less valuable in his eyes.
“My whole experience with basketball definitely kept me grounded for sure,” said Bellenger. “It definitely showed me how I could work for things in life and in sports and I couldn’t be more thankful for that experience because it’s one of the best experiences I’ve ever been through in all of my high school years.”
“He always did what we needed him to do,” head boy basketball coach Perrin Mosca said. “I could always count on him to not worry about scoring or being the man. He was a role player this year who did a lot more.
“He knew his role perfectly
and I always told him I appreciated all he did for the younger kids, especially (freshmen) Avery (Cano) and Filoteo (Mosca). He was able to teach them how to do the right things and be a good player.”
Bellenger continued: “Just leading these younger guys, showing them the ways and even teaching them the right way to carry themselves on and off the court was just an unreal experience and probably my favorite as a captain in all three sports.”
For Bellenger, being a mentor to younger players was nothing new. From a young age, Bellenger felt he had to be a role model for his younger brother, Jayson.
“Having that younger brother and being in that role model spot throughout my whole life was definitely something I took into high school and I used that experience to become a captain and be a role model for all my
other teammates,” Bellenger said.
Growing up, Shawn remembers him and his brother making the short walk to Lewandowski Park where they would play catch, and pretend that they were Major Leaguers. Despite the two-year age gap, they also were Little League teammates, as one was always the pitcher and the other catching.
“We thought we were the greatest two players in baseball ever. When we were younger, we thought we were going pro,” Bellenger said. Their father, Butch, now an assistant coach with Lyndhurst, played two years of minor league baseball in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization after a stellar career at now-closed Queen of Peace High School, North Arlington, and later Rider and William Paterson universities.
The two brothers got to share a similar dynamic one
more time this spring. Shawn, a two-year starter at second base, shifted over to short as a senior, filling the position left by last year’s Observer Male Athlete of the Year, Anthony Pizzuti. Taking over at second was Jayson.
The two proved to be a dynamic double play tandem for Lyndhurst as it went 17-10 and won the NJIC National Division for the first time since 2019.
“We already had that chemistry down,” said Shawn, who also mentored Jayson, who was the backup QB, during football season. “There was no chemistry to be worked on (this spring). We already had it there and it has been there since the beginning of the year.”
“It was tremendous to see them together,” head baseball coach Pat Auteri said. “You see the brotherly love. You see, at
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times, the brotherly arguments, but they definitely know each other (on the field) and I think that helped with a great double play tandem.”
Shawn also had a career year at the plate, hitting .392 with 32 runs, 24 RBI, 19 walks, 18 stolen bases and 14 extra-base hits. Bellenger hit .339 during his three years on varsity as he finished with 81 career hits and 82 runs scored.
“Even at a young age, the way he carried himself was wise beyond his years. You saw that even when he came in as a freshman,” Auteri, who for football, serves as the offensive coordinator, said. “I think he was prepared for this. He just is cool, calm, collected in whatever sport it was. To see him grow over the years into the young man that he is, is something special.”
pressured to move, it’s advisable to list low.
The proper pricing of a home can mean the difference between a timely sale and a property that languishes unnecessarily on the market. Proper pricing can also ensure that you will realize the best return for your original investment. Call us if you’d like a market analysis of your property and an individualized plan for aggressively marketing your property. Please call for an appointment to learn about our listings. You can always count on us to be on your side. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”
Nutley Junior League 14U LL wins District 8 title
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
A year ago, Nutley East Little League finished third in the entire state in the Intermediate 50/70 classification.
Most of those guys are back, now playing at the Junior League
(14U) level and they’re adding to an already strong championship resume.
After winning all but one game during the regular season, Nutley swept the best of three final against Caldwell-West Essex, winning 13-3 at Caldwell on June 21, before clinching the District 8
title two days later in Nutley. According to head coach Albert Prodigalidad, the success is not just a testament to their talent, but a chemistry and cohesion that this group has built in recent seasons.
“It’s a confident group,” said Prodigalidad. “They’ve been
playing together for a few years now, so they’re confident against whoever they play.
“There’s a chemistry that these boys have displayed from game to game. It’s like they know where each other will be at all times. They’re always backing each other up, every play. It’s fun to watch and it’s been fun to watch over these past few seasons as they continue to mature.”
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Photo courtesy of Tracey Marinelli
North Arlington Junior League 14U LL wins District 5 title
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Last spring North Arlington Little League President Javier Cruz and Vice President Ed Duffy made a decision to challenge a talented group of then 13-year-olds by playing them up at the Junior League 14U level. While the group, a year younger than its peers had a strong 2024 season, making it to the District 5 title game, the loss in the final left a bitter taste in their mouth.
Back on the Junior League level and now the same age as its competition, this group from North Arlington, many of them playing together since the 9U level, delivered another championship performance.
This time, North Arlington capped off a strong season with a District 5 title on Tuesday. It’s the latest championship for a group that as 12-year-olds in 2023 won its first District 5 LL
title since 1965 and later won a 50/70 title in the Secaucus Fall League the following fall.
“All season we’ve been working hard to get here,” Cruz said.
“This is all that we’ve been talking about. All spring, all winter, we’ve literally said that this is going to be our year.
“We knew we had a chip on our shoulder, that we were going to be a great team and we just had to show it on the field.”
Leading the charge for North Arlington has been a stellar one-two combination of Maverick Michalski and Noah Vargas.
“We feel like we know we’re going to win the game because these guys have been lights out on the mound for the past two years,” said Lopez. They hit their corners, they throw strikes, they listen and they’re excellent pitchers.”
Michael Faulk, Owen Alvarez and Davian Navarro have also pitched valuable innings for North Arlington during its run
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with Alvarez being a top reliever for the team.
Catching them is Joshua Figueroa, who according to Cruz “can do it all,” as a catcher defensively.
Jayden Beauchene plays first base, with Markoswki starting at third and Vargas, who has also had a big tournament at the plate, is at shortstop.
Cruz’s son, Javier Jr. shares second base with Alvarez and Faulk. Depending on who is on the mound, all three could line up elsewhere on the infield.
Braden Duffy starts in center field and leads off for North Arlington. The left and right field spots have been split by Zachariah DeCicco, Adrian Ledesma, Aaron Santana and Navarro.
North Arlington began the Sectional Tournament on Sunday with a 10-3 victory over Fort Lee in Lodi. With the win, it advances to play Nutley in a Monday game held after The Observer’s deadlines.
The Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. So, 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. If access to e-mail is not possible, please call us at (201) 991-1600.
BASEBALL
Continued from Page 8
As part of that maturity, Prodigalidad now has four quality pitchers that he has been able to rely upon all season long to form a real strength.
Michael DeJianne has served as the ace each of the past two years. Travis Gonick and Nick
Rivera are also veteran pitchers with Greg Crumrine also getting a lot of valuable innings.
While that quartet have gotten the bulk of the moundwork, Prodigalidad stressed he has the confidence to turn to any of the 12 boys on his roster to pitch if needed.
“(Having those four) makes my life 10 times easier,” Prodigalidad said. “I don’t have to
save my best arm or throw the best arm against the best team. I can just throw who’s available, who’s rested enough.”
Catching them has been the tandem of Luke Finkelstein and Max Ruiz. Finkelstein has been Nutley’s leadoff hitter with DeJianne, Jack Conway, Anthony Berardesco and Rivera following.
All four spots on the infield
vary by the game, in large part due to who is pitching, but Nutley has proven to have multiple options at each position.
Berardesco and Rivera split first base. Crumrine is the main second baseman though Saverio Marinelli and Gonick have also played there. DeJianne is the primary shortstop with Gonick also seeing time at the position. Gonick, Rivera and Marinelli all
split time at third base.
Conway starts in center field, with Austin Prodigalidad in left field and Luke Priolo in right with Matthew Espinales also in the mix in both corner spots.
Nutley opened up the Sectional Tournament in Lodi with a 6-5 extra-inning victory over Hoboken on Sunday. It faced North Arlington in a Monday game played after our deadline.
Lisa M. Feorenzo
lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager
DEADLINES
Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday
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Help Wanted: Noon, Monday — all ads must be sent to classified@theobserver.com.
Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster
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Kearny’s Roosevelt School announces Fourth Marking Period Honor Roll
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 2024-2025 school year.
Principal’s Honors
Grade 6
Francesca Alda, Gael Barahona Beltran, Emmah Barroqueiro, Sophia De Ray, Dominic DeRosa, Carlos Kingalahua, Alexander Kintos, Brian McKenna, Lunna Orellana Barillas, Quinn Pinho, Zachary Pritchard-Coelho, Rebecca Ribeiro, Savannah Rusek, Adham Saad, Ni -
cole Sanchez, Sofia Silva Gavilanes, Eian Veiga, Alyssa Velazquez.
Grade 5
Amelia Abbott, Aysha Bah, Miranda Bernaola, Kylee Carlen, Michael Dinuzzo, Isadora Galiotto, Calleigh Hassen, Shane Maass, Nicolette Martinez, Sophia Murray-Dominguez, Luciana Olortegui Espinoza, Abigail Orozco, Noah Rodriguez, Nicolas Rodriguez Gamarra, Gyuan Mauro Santos Leon, Emilia Ugarte, Vitolucianno Velasquez.
Grade 4
Dylan Alda, Vita Araujo, Emily Brown, Dali Carrera,
Adrina Cruz, Elassa Al Rayan, Charlotte Gracias, Lilia Koffman, Diego Miranda Taday, Emma Principe, Katherine Stacey, Kenny Valentin
Honors
Grade 6
Sophia Arango, Amelia Azurdia, Asa Brand, Declan Coleman, Sophia Costa, Alex Dinuzzo, Sophia Dobie, Kai Ferreira, Sebastian Huaranga, Stephen Levchak, Ayden Lighten, Manuel Lopez, Enzo Martins, Joshua Mengotto, Benen Palacios, Emil Pena, Carolina Pereira, Brianna Porto, Abdiel Ramirez, Jaylimar Rivas, Rebecka Rocha Soares
Shaw-Buyus
Ferreira, Destiny Ruccatano, Anthony Ruiz, Gyan Marcos Santos Leon, Diego Saritama Loyola, Hannah Silva, Gurnoor Singh, Thiago Ulloa Mozombite, Aiden Vega-Marshman, Michael Wolsza, Marisol Zulueta Nieto
Grade 5
Aubrey Amenta, Manny Azanza-Mora, Alicia Bystrowski, Valentina Cano, Finn Corbett, Nicholas DeRay, Claudio Garcia, Sophia Henriques, Amelia Klus, Nathan Leroy, Jahir Maldonado, Aldrian Mendoza, Milha Narvaez Cajas, Nicole Orellana, Emily Peldunas, Anthony
Pina, Liam Ramirez, Luca Selay, Bo Shockley, Shawn Sullivan, Danna Torres Gil, Corinne Young
Grade 4
Keira Carlen, Zella Carvalho, Ava Costa, Ana Costa, Gabriel Costa, Joao Pedro De Azevedo Fernandes, Trinity DeLeon, Joseph Distano, Oliver Escobar, Gwenyth Formoso, Israel Gomez, Eliza Gutierrez, Omar Ibrahim, Sofia Jimenez, Mateo Lopez, Lorelei McKenna, Stella Miguel, Leonardo Moncada, Kaden Palomino, Aliza Shimabukuro, Liam Torero Hoces, Alice Vilas Boas, Kelly Zhinin.
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entrust
1 Family Home - NEW CONSTRUCTION! Luxurious,
N. ArlingtonSOLD FOR $581,0000! 1
as a two family, town approval required to obtain 2 family CO. Features lg yard, driveway. Being Sold “ As is” . Great opportunity for both investors and those seeking multi-generational living arrangements.
The ‘Nebraska Cornhuskers’ were Kearny Recreation’s seventh- and eighth-grade champions for the second year in a row, after going 10-0. Over the last two seasons, the team was 19-1. The team includes, from left, Zaidyn Robinson, Nate Rivera, Logan Diaz, Ryan Milne, Coach Will Milne, Jayden Milne, Ryan Robinson, Dennis Samaniego and Aiden Martinez.
TNAPD: 2 Staten Islanders nabbed & charged with forgery at CVS
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
wo Staten Islanders are in serious trouble after they allegedly attempted to pass counterfeit money at the Belleville Turnpike CVS in North Arlington, Capt. Rui Encarnacao, of the North Arlington Police Department, said.
According to Encarnacao:
On Sunday, June 22, 2025, the North Arlington PD responded to a report of multiple individuals attempting to make purchases with suspected counterfeit U.S. currency at the pharmacy.
While en route, police were advised the suspects left the store and fled the scene in a black Acura bearing New York plates, traveling northbound on Schuyler Avenue.
A short time later, police observed the suspect vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed northbound on Schuyler Avenue, operating in the oncoming traffic lane and causing multiple vehicles to take evasive action to avoid a collision. The suspect vehicle continued until it collided with another vehicle at an intersection in Lyndhurst, when it failed stop at a red traffic signal.
Following the crash, four individu-
als exited the Acura and fled the scene on foot in various directions. Officers initiated a foot pursuit and apprehended two of the suspects shortly after.
The investigation is ongoing.
Tyreek Zyaire Gomez, 23, of Staten Island, has been charged with endangering an injured victim and resisting arrest – causing risk to another.
Elijah Breeden, 19, also of Staten Island, has been charged with endangering an injured victim, resisting arrest — causing risk to another, theft by deception, three counts of forgery-false issue and four counts of forgery-utterance.
Kearny UNICO awards several scholarships
I Steven Negron ENTER THIS NOTICE OF EXONERATION for the public record. Equitable Subrogation was invoked on December 14, 2024, in connection with obligations originally undertaken by the Obligor, CAPITAL ONE NA, and the Co-Obligor, RUBIN & ROTHMANN LLC. This notice serves as confirmation that no further performance, financial or otherwise, is required of me as a result.
($232.80 06/11/25 -07/16/25)
The regular meeting of the Kearny Zoning Board of Adjustment is to be held on Tuesday, July 1st, 2025, at 7:30 pm in the Council Chambers 402 Kearny Ave., Kearny, NJ. The extent of the agenda is known as follows:
#2025.12 Richard L. Smith a/k/a RLS Media Solutions Broadcasting a/k/a Metro Media Institute 167 Stuyvesant Avenue a/k/a 646 Elm Street Variance application.
#2025.13 St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church 660 Kearny Avenue Variance application.
#2025.14 James A. and Patricia Gabriele 664 Elm Street Variance application.
#2025.15 Paulo Silva a/k/a S and A Holdings Limited Liability Company
37 Devon Terrace Variance application.
#2025.16 Manuel Rodrigues 671 Forest Street
Variance application. *Carried to 08-07-25 mtg
By: Jennifer Diaz, Board Secretary($50.00 online 06/25/25 & newspaper 07/02/25)
The regular meeting of the Kearny Planning Board scheduled for Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 7:30 pm in the Council Chambers at 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032 has been canceled.
By: Jennifer Diaz, Board Secretary
($7.00 online 06/25/25 newspaper 07/02/25)
HUDSON COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
DIVISION OF PURCHASING – NOTICE TO BIDDERS
BID NO. 7984
Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Purchasing Agent of the County of Hudson on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 10:30 A.M. in the Hudson County Administration Annex, Purchasing Department, 3rd Floor, 567 Pavonia Avenue, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 for “Improvements to Paterson Plank Road, From John F. Kennedy Boulevard to County Avenue, Township of North Bergen, Town of Secaucus & City of Union City”. Plans and specifications are available from the Office of the County Engineer, Bergen Square Center, 830 Bergen Avenue, Floor #6B, Jersey City, New Jersey, 07306, (201) 369-4340 where they may be inspected by prospective bidders and copies thereto may be obtained upon payment of $75.00 per set which payment is not refundable and covers the cost of reproduction.
Bids must be enclosed in sealed envelopes endorsed “Improvements to Paterson Plank Road, From John F. Kennedy Boulevard to County Avenue, Township of North Bergen, Town of Secaucus & City of Union City” – File #3442 and delivered by hand or mail as further described in the specifications. No bid will be received previous to the hour aforesaid and none will be received thereafter. At such time and place, all bids will be unsealed, the contents thereof will be publicly announced and the prices and terms will be recorded. Proposals are being solicited through a fair and open process in accordance with N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.2, et seq., and as such, contractors are exempt from the limitations on making political contributions under that law. Further, for that reason, as well as because of a language in the New Jersey’s Annual Appropriations Act, refusal to disclose campaign contributions otherwise required by N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.2 et seq. and
19:44A-20.25 et seq., will not adversely affect your consideration for award.
Each bid must be accompanied by (a) a cashier’s check, certified check or bid bond payable to the County of Hudson in the sum equal to ten percent of the bid, but in no case to exceed $20,000.00; (b) a certificate from a surety company authorized to do business in New Jersey, rated A or better by A.M. Best, that such company will provide the bidder with a Performance Bond or Bonds called for in the specifications; and, (c) statement of ownership disclosure form; (d) a list of subcontractors; and, (e) bid forms with acknowledgement of receipt of Addenda. Bidders shall refer to the Specifications’ Checklist for a complete listing of required forms – all forms marked required shall be properly executed and included with the bid. The work to be performed under this bid must be paid at rates that comply with the Prevailing Wage rates promulgated by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Industry for this Project. Attention of bidders is called to the existence of statutes and regulations relative to the safety of workmen, hours of labor, workman’s compensation insurance, preference for and prohibition of certain types of labor, anti-discrimination against labor and other particular statutes and regulations affecting the proposed public work together with regulations, rules and ordinances of the municipality in which the work is to be done. This Project is subject to a Project Labor Agreement. Bidders are required to comply with requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et. seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27. Withdrawal of a bid shall be in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A: 11-23.3. Hudson County reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any defect in the bids or bid proposals as permitted by law. The acceptance of any bid by the County is contingent upon the Director of Finance & Administration’s certification that the funds are available.
BY: CHRISTINE MORO, ESQ., QPA, PURCHASING
Don’t forget to watch The Observer Live! Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter & Twitch. on YouTube, click ‘subscribe’ to be notified whenever we’re on the air.
AGENT
FOR: CHERYL FULLER, DIRECTOR FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
cc: Christine Moro, Purchasing Agent
Markis M. Abraham, Office of Business Opportunity and Community Services Elizabeth Demetriades, Affirmative Action Compliance Officer ($54.00)
Superior Court of New Jersey Chancery Division
Hudson County
Docket Number: HUD-L-003787-24 NOTICE TO ABSENT DEFENDANTS (L.S.) STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO: Harrison Developers LLC & Alexander Pavlovsky YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED to serve upon Friedman Vartolo LLP, Attorneys for Plaintiff, whose address is 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160, Garden City, NY 11530, an answer to the Complaint in Foreclosure, Amended Complaint and Amendment(s) and Order(s), if any, filed in a Civil Action, in which WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF ANTLER MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2021-RTL1 is Plaintiff and HARRISON DEVELOPERS LLC; et al., are Defendants, pending in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, Hudson County, under Docket Number: HUD-L-003787-24, within thirty-five (35) days after the date of publication of this notice, exclusive of the date of service. If you fail to do so, judgment by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint, amended complaint, amendment(s), order(s), if any. You shall file your answer and proof of service in duplicate with
the Clerk of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Hughes Justice Complex, 25 West Market Street, Trenton, New Jersey 08625, in accordance with the Rules of Civil Practice and Procedure.
This action has been commenced and is pending to foreclose a mortgage and recover possession of certain lands and premises, as follows: The mortgage being foreclosed is dated December 19, 2019, and made by Harrison Developers LLC, as Mortgagor, to Finance of America Commercial LLC, which mortgage was recorded on January 13, 2020 in Hudson County, in Book 19534 of Mortgages for said County on Page Number 662 et seq. The lands and premises affected by this action and for which possession is sought are commonly known as 20 Rock Street, Jersey City, NJ 07306, and also known as Lot 31 in Block 10801. If you are unable to obtain an attorney, you may communicate with the New Jersey State Bar Association by calling (732) 249-5000. You may also contact the lawyer referral services of the County of Venue by calling (856) 482-0618. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may communicate with the Legal Services Office of the County of Venue by calling (856) 964-2010. You, Harrison Developers LLC and Alexander Pavlovsky, are hereby made a party defendant to the foreclosure action because you have or may claim to have some right, title, lien or other interest affecting the real estate being foreclosed, by virtue of ownership, inheritance, descent, intestacy, devise, dower, curtsey, mortgage, deed, or conveyance, enter 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, Amended Complaint, Amendment(s), Order(s), if any, a copy of which will be furnished to you on request addressed to the attorneys for the plaintiff at the above mentioned address.
MICHELLE M. SMITH Clerk of the Superior Court ($392.85)
The Kearny chapter of UNICO presented scholarships to several graduating seniors. Seen here are scholarship chairman Joe Sorbera, Ava DeCastro Lawdanski, Landen Madalena, Gia Kaminski and chapter President Annamarie Latushko. Recipients Christine Mitchell and Emily Gruttadauria were unable to attend.
BELLEVILLE 1 Bedroom Apartment, located on Garden Avenue, lower level, laundry facilities on site, 1 parking space, no dogs only 1 indoor cat de-clawed, no smoking, available immediately, great for single person or couple, $1,599.00 per month, 1 1/2 month security. Call Joanne 973-6993146 07W03
BELLEVILLE 1st floor
3 BR’s, 1 Bath, LR, Kitchen & DR combo, Heat & Hot water include, 1 months security required No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (973)759-7077 08W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
E.NEWARK 2nd floor
Newly renovated 3 BR’s, LR, Kitchen & Bath, C/A & Laundry, 1.5 months security, Utilities not included, No Pets/ smoking Available July 15th (201)334-8526 or (973)508-6695 07W03
HARRISON 2nd floor, 2 BR, LR, DR, EIK $1,800 + 1 month security. Utilities not included Walking distance to PATH. No pets. No smoking. Avl. Now (201)978–8853 0139 07W03
HARRISON 2nd floor newly renovated 1 BR, Open concept EIK,Hardwood floors throughout, C/A & Heat $1900 + Months security Utilities separate No smoking, Pets limited Available Now (201)780-1892 08W03
HARRISON New Home 2nd fl. 3 BR’s, 2 Baths. Close to transportation. No Pets/ Smoking. Available Now. (201)709-0645 or (973)741-8292 Leave Message 08W03
HARRISON 2nd floor 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, LR/DR combo, Kitchen. Central Air $1650 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate No Pets. No Smoking. Available Now (201)376-7464 08W03
HARRISON 1ST Floor 1 BR, LR, Kitchen DR open concept 1 Parking space $1850 + 1.5 months security Utilities included No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)3767464 08W03
HARRISON 1 bedroom, ground level, near PATH, no pet, pay own UT, 1 1/2 months security, finance reference required available 7/1 Call/Text: (973)8092035 or call (973)4833682 06W03
credit required No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)998-0509 06W03
KEARNY Fully renovated, Centrally located, 2 BR’s, 1st floor. Washer/ Dryer hook up. $2,200/ Month + 1.5 Month Security. Utilities separate. Must have excellent credit. No Smoking. No Pets. Available Now. Leave message (201) 467-6878 07W03
KEARNY Studio Apartment for rent No pets, no smoking. $1700 per month. 1.5 months Security deposit Please call 862-505-6877 Ella 07W03
KEARNY 2nd FL. 1 BR. LR, Dining Room, EIK. Parking or storage garage included. No pets/ no smoking. $2000 + 1 months security. Utilities Separate. Available now (201)889-4655 08W03
KEARNY 3rd Fl, 1 Bdrm $1700 + 1 months security Utilities separate Safe building cameras Walk to all amenities hardwd flrs Avail 7/15 call 201-955-0001 08W03
KEARNY 1st Floor 2 BR, with 1 Bath, LR.DR. Newly remodeled Bath, $2000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)3767464 08W03
KEARNY Newly renovated 3 BR Duplex, 1 Bath, EIK, Washer/Dryer hook-up $2300 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Access to backyard & storage Available August 1st (201)465-4228 08W03
LYNDHURST 1st floor 1 BR, LR & Computer room 1 Bath, Kitchen $1900 + 1 months security Utilities included No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)7094906 07W03
LYNDHURST 2 BR $2,500 + 1.5 months security, Heat & hot water inclueded, utilities separate Heat/Hot Water Included. 2nd floor of two family home. Street Parking. Availabe Now Please contact Joann at 973-277-0942 if interested. Please call/do not text 08W03
N.NEWARK 4 room apt. private home 2nd fl. Close to NYC Transportation. Kitchen, LR, 1 BR/OFFICE Space, no pets or laundry. Street parking only. Utilities included. $1,700+ 1 month security. Avl. September 1st. Couple preferred References Required. For more info call Anthony (973) 485-6417 or (862)7553502 08W03
Handyman special, used kitchen cabinets, must be refurbished for further information (201)997-3757 06W03
GE Full size Portable dishwasher on wheels, used twice new $350.00 (973)7032540 07W03
BELLEVILLE Room for rent. 1 or 2 people reasonable price. Everything included. Private Bath. Shared Kitchen. Laundry room Available now. Please Call (973)536-6559 06W03
Fabric Loveseat good condition, light grey color, cash only payments , buyer must be able to pick up the item, location Belleville , NJ Dimensions 63 inches length 37 inches width 36.6 inches height $200 , Real interested inquiries only, will text picture (917)254-2684 07W03
Liquor Store and Mini Market with more than 30 years in Kearny NJ $455,000 plus inventory. Open to negotiate and finance (862)202-5765 08W03
N.ARLINGTON 2 BR, EIK, LR Completely renovated Private entrance/deck, Washer/ dryer hookup, Attic storage, Off-street parking (additional fee) $2,400/month + utilities 1-year lease 1½ months security deposit No pets / No smoking Credit report & employment verification required Available July 1 201-723-3415 07W03
N.ARLINGTON 2nd floor 1 BR, $1600 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate, Close to Transportation No Pets/ Smoking, Couple or single person Preferred Available now (201)8893110 07W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
NEWS BRIEFS
St. Peter’s Belleville hosting AC bus trip
St. Peter’s Church, Belleville, hosts a bus trip to Atlantic City Aug. 15. Bus boards at 8:15 a.m. at St. Peter’s School’s parking lot. Tickets are $50 and may be purchased by calling (973) 751-2002.
KPSUE collecting used school uniforms for redistribution
The Kearny Public School Uniform Exchange is beginning to collect donations of used uniforms at two locations
— Super Laundromat at 336 Kearny Ave. and the Kearny VFW Post 1302 at 300 Belgrove Drive. Salvation Army of Kearny hosting open gyms with Tom Fraser
The Salvation Army of greater Kearny, 28 Beech St., hosts open gyms Tuesday and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. for kids aged 10 to 17. Games will be under the supervision of the immortal Tom Fraser, retired Lincoln School counselor and coach and long-time director of the Presbyterian Boys & Girls Club.
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Bringing history to life in
Harrison
Fourth- and fith-graders at Harrison’s Hamilton Intermediate School took their social studies project to a higher, interactive level by creating a living museum to showcase famous New Jerseyans. Seen here are Giovanna Scrimo with students Chelsea, Jennifer and Kelly.
SENIORS
Continued from Page 5
spoofed the Kearny PD’s telephone number — (201) 9981313 — but it wasn’t really the department. Scammers have gotten that good that they can make the number look like legit agencies, businesses or people.
The suggestion from Grimm and the COP? Hang up and call back, when in doubt. Chances are when you call the number back, if it’s been spoofed, you’ll quickly learn you never got a legitimate call.
In all, meanwhile, Aquino had a simple, yet profound conclusion to the remarks given that day and the tips she offered.
“Make
“Always shred anything with your personal information on it,” she said. “And if it looks or sounds suspicious, verify it or report it.”
Lastly, talk to others if you think you may have encountered a scammer. Don’t feel ashamed — it has happened to too many not to speak about it. Ask family members, friends, anyone you trust. You can even discuss such instances at the Henrietta Benstead Center if you’re a member.
But again, remember to report suspicious calls by reaching out the police department where you live.
You may just help someone else from falling prey to the next scam.
Premier Car e TALK S
MEASLES
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by Morbillivirus hominis. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically begin with fever, cough, and red, watery eyes, followed by a characteristic red rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and even death, especially in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The disease is preventable through the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, which has significantly reduced cases worldwide. However, outbreaks still occur, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates. Since measles is highly infectious, herd immunity through widespread vaccination is crucial to prevent its spread.
A person with measles can spread the virus to others for about eight days, starting four days before the rash appears and ending when the rash has been present for four days. Call your health care provider if you think you or your child may have been exposed to measles or if you or your child has a rash that looks like measles. To schedule an appointment, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474. We are available at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B, where walk-in patients are always welcome 7 days a week.
P.S. While no specific antiviral treatment exists for measles, supportive care, including hydration, fever management, and vitamin A supplementation, can help reduce complications and improve recovery.
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
Photo by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.
COP Unit Officer Janitza Aquino is seen here. She delivered the majority of the presentation and did so flawlessly and powerfully so senior citizens left fully aware of the dangers of falling prey to these vicious scammers.
MOBILE
Continued from Page 3
oven. A coffee pot. And Sumkowski will be bringing in an extra Keurig machine for instant access to often much needed joe.
On the other side of the vehicle, there’s a conference room with tables and chairs and several TVs/monitors for even more access to cameras and data.
It’s all powered by a water-cooled diesel generator (on the back of the vehicle) that keeps all electrical units up and running. It also keeps the place air conditioned in the warmth of the summer and warm in the depths of winter and the colder months.
There’s also a shore line so if there’s mobile power available, they won’t necessarily need to use the generator for energy. There’s a PA system, too, so if anything needs to be amplified — say in a crowd, of if a subject is barricade indoors — it can certainly be heard, clearly.
If officers need to be perched higher than the ground or the unit, there’s a ladder in the back of the vehicles that leads to the roof. The drone unit, Poplaski notes, could easily go up there to launch, land and monitor their flying units.
There’s also a unit that kicks in if power fluctuates or if the generator fails, and thus, no critical data or access to it will ever be lost.
There are leveling jacks that go out to keep the vehicle balanced, especially for “when the masts go up,” Poplaski said. “We may not need them but if something drastic happens, they’re there.
Under the hood up front, the engine that allows the vehicle to travel from storage to a location, is an 8-cylinder Mercedes Benz with minimal mileage on it. It, too, like the generator, is powered by diesel fuel.
In all, this impressive vehicle “will definitely get good use,” Sumkowski said.
And you’ll get to see it all in action July 4 if you’re at the town fireworks celebration.
Magnet fisher reels in historic World War II ordinance from river
man fishing off of the DeJessa bridge June 26 at around 9:45 a.m.
A
using a line with a magnet reeled in an artillery shell from the WWII era. Bergen County Bomb Squad responded. They determined that it did not have a fuse. Photo courtesy of Vin Auteri
-Rami Alrabaa
