Alocal gym owner may have been pumping iron this weekend — but it was all behind bars, since police say he is responsible for attempting a robbery at Schuyler Avenue supermarket Friday, June 6, Det. Sgt. John
including Chief Scott Macfie, Det.
and
Fabula said over the weekend.
At 3 p.m., Friday, June 6, patrol units responded to what turned out to be a violent robbery at Seabra Foods on Schuyler Avenue. According to staff, when they confronted a suspect who had stolen merchandise, the man produced a black handgun and beat an employee with it.
The suspect fled on foot and a detailed description was obtained. The victim, meanwhile, was taken to a local hospital and later transferred to a trauma center because of the severity of a facial injury.
Using town-owned cameras, detectives quickly tracked the suspect’s movements before and after the
incident. His tattoos were visible in the footage and Det. Jordenson Jean recognized him as Edsel M. Brown, 35, of Kearny. Camera footage confirmed Brown fled into No Label Fitness, a local gym he owns, which was not currently open for business.
See ROBBERY, Page 8
Flanked
colleagues,
Anthony Oliveira leads the way in the Kearny portion of the 2025 Special Olympics Torch Run. In the photo at
police officers
Lincoln Middle School students who took part in the annual event to benefit the Special Olympics.
Photos by Lisa Feorenzo
NEWS BRIEFS
Town of Harrison hosting blood drive
Michelle advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600
Kearny VFW hosting Flag Day flag retirement ceremony
The Town of Harrison hosts a blood drive Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 1 to 7 p.m., at the Harrison Rec Center, 201 Warren St. Appointments are encouraged, though walk-ins are welcome. To donate, eat well and be hydrated before donating. Bring a photo ID. Donors must be 17 or older or 16 with parental consent. To schedule an appointment, visit nybc.org/sponsor and enter sponsor code 70864. Visit nybc.org/eligibility for full donating rules.
Special Children’s Committee hosts a hibachi dinner & show Friday, June 20, at 6:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 601 Elm St., Kearny. The cost is $50 per person. Payment must be made by June 12. Either visit the lodge or Venmo to @kearnyelks1050 (put Chris Brown/ Hibachi in the note). Send an email to chrisscc1050@gmail. com for more details.
KPSUE collecting used school uniforms for redistribution
The Kearny VFW Post 1302 hosts a Flag Day flag retirement ceremony Saturday, June 14, at 3 p.m., at 300 Belgrove Drive. The VFW will be open that day to the public.
NA Knights hosting summer kickoff and council birthday BBQ
ments, as well as a gluten-free menu cooked on a dedicated grill.
All proceeds will go to the Knights 2025 Special Needs Drive that supports organizations in the local area that provide needed programs for special needs citizens and their parents.
Arlington Public Library sponsors a “4th of July” summer basket giveaway full of goodies, including a $25 ShopRite gift certificate, to make your family holiday special. You may support the library by donating $1 per ticket toward the basket, with the announcement of the winning ticket Friday, June 27.
Advertising: Here is the updated template with a new photo of Jarlynn Hyde:
Elks’ Special Children’s Committee hosting hibachi dinner, show
The Kearny-Belleville Elks’
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.
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Most real estate purchases allow buyers to have a home inspection before following through with the purchase. If the inspection discovers an issue with the property that the buyer is not willing to accept, there are two options: terminate the sale and look for a different property or ask the seller to correct the issue that’s preventing the buyer from purchasing. The buyer can use a repair addendum to ask the seller to make repairs to the property. Keep in mind that the seller is not required to make any repairs, but they may choose to if it will help them sell their home. An effective repair addendum asks for health and safety-related repairs (needs) rather than cosmetic improvements (wants).
It’s always a good idea to be fully armed with the tools necessary for a fair, honest purchase or sale. An inspection of your home lets you know where you stand regarding such important issues as the condition of the structure, roofing, electrical systems, well and septic system, etc. It may be painful to see a list of major repairs, but forewarned is forearmed. We can give you plenty of tips for making your home stand out among the competition. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”
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The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus celebrates its 74th birthday and the start of summer 2025 with a BBQ Sunday, June 22, at Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington at 1 p.m. The Knights will be cooking hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage, lemon-pepper chicken, potato and macaroni salad, dessert and refresh-
The cost is $25 per adult and $10 for kids aged 6 to 11. Reservations must be made by calling (201) 988-0183 by Wednesday, June 18. The Knights also ask those attending to consider donating a non-expired, non-perishable canned good for the Food for Families Project.
NAPL Friends hosting basket raffle
The Friends of the North
Patrons will receive a complimentary “Friends” bookmark until supplies run out.
All residents are invited to join the Friends where members take part in fundraising for scholarships, fulfilling children’s library needs and sponsoring many programs for adults.
The Friends meet at 10 a.m., the third Friday of every month, at the library.
Belleville Woman’s Club hosting fish & chips fundraiser
The Woman’s Club of Belleville hosts a fish and chip fundraiser on Friday, June 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Belleville Senior Center, 145 Franklin Ave., Belleville.
Eat in or carry out will be available.
Cost is $25 and each meal comes with fried fish, French fries, coleslaw, dessert and a drink. Chicken may be substituted for fish.
For information and tickets, call Patty at (201) 303-3377.
Guy & Doyle successfully negotiate deal to curb Hudson’s hectic chopper traffic
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Hudson County helicopter haters, rejoice — help is on the way, thanks to the county executive and Kearny’s mayor.
Hudson County Executive Craig Guy says he’s received commitments from HHI Heliport CEO Jeff Hyman that he intends to alleviate the rampant helicopter activity throughout Hudson County.
Moving forward, 90% of the trips originating out of the Kearny heliport will take place during the hours of 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. in the spring/summer/ fall and 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. in the winter.
Additionally, Guy says HHI has pledged it will not contract another tour company to replace the now-defunct New York Helicopters.
Without this additional tour company operation, it is estimated annually 3,000 movements per year will be reduced in the area.
Guy says he will hold HHI Heliport accountable by following up with the company within 30 days to ensure these standards are enforced.
“Unfettered helicopter flights over Hudson County are unacceptable. This is a safety issue, a quality-of-life issue
and an environmental issue. It is time to hold these operators accountable for their actions,” Guy said. “The remedies HHI has offered are but a first step to addressing concerns of Hudson County residents. This issue remains the highest priority for me and Congressman Rob Menendez — we will remain vigilant in ensuring the lives of our people are not constantly harassed by helicopter flights. We will be watching and will take stock of the situation and see if HHI is meeting its commitments. The proof will be in the pudding.”
Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle says she is pleased with the direction the county executive and Hyman are taking.
“As mayor of Kearny, I, too, heard the complaints from Jersey City and Hoboken, in person and in emails as well,” Doyle said. “The issue of the
helicopters did not go unnoticed. I attended the meetings with County Executive Craig Guy and his team. We are confident the changes Mr. Hyman from HHI promised along with testimony from 2014 will give much needed relief from the helicopters. I will continue to work with the county executive and Congressman Menendez to continue to monitor this situation.”
Lastly, Hyman chimed in. “County Executive Guy made clear that changes must be made to our operation and we will continue working with the county executive’s office, as well as other Hudson County elected officials and the community-at-large, to make sure we are effectively responding to their concerns,” Hyman said.
Guy Doyle
LPD: Woman driving drunk had child, 5, in car
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
ALyndhurst woman who police say had a 5-year-old child in a car who driving drunk and was arrested and charged accordingly, Det. Capt. Vincent Auteri, of the Lyndhurst Police Department, said.
POLICE BEAT
On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at approximately 5 p.m., Officer Thomas Golda was dispatched to the area of Lake and Jay avenues on a report of a motor vehicle crash involving three parked vehicles.
Additionally, it was learned the suspect vehicle was attempting to flee the scene.
Upon arrival, Officer Golda, along with Officer Glenn Flora, located the suspect vehicle and made contact with the driver, identified as Paige Pearn, who was attempting to drive away from the scene.
Also in the vehicle was her 5-year old daughter, seated in the rear passenger seat, who had sustained a laceration to the top of her head.
Police said the child restraint in the rear seat was not properly secured at the time of police contact.
Lyndhurst EMS responded to the scene and transported the juvenile to Clara Maass Medical Center, Belleville, for treatment. Pearn was treated at the scene for minor injuries.
While speaking with Pearn,
officers observed she appeared confused about the circumstances of the crash. Her eyes were noted to be bloodshot and watery.
Based on these observations, Pearn was subjected to standardized field-sobriety tests.
At the conclusion of the testing, Officer Golda placed Pearn under arrest for drunken driving.
The child was released into the custody of a family member. The vehicle was impounded in accordance with John’s Law.
Police say Pearn had been arrested only a few weeks earlier — May 9 to be precise — also on a drunken-driving charge.
Because Pearn was operating a motor vehicle while under the influence with a juvenile passenger who sustained injuries as a result of the crash, she was also charged with endangering the welfare of a child, a seconddegree crime.
Additionally, she was issued summonses for DWI, refusal to submit a blood sample and reckless driving before being released with a pending court appearance in municipal court.
HCPO: Charter school employee arrested, charged with sexual misconduct
An IT administrator at the Hudson Arts and Science Middle School in Kearny has been arrested and charged with sexual misconduct after investigators learned he allegedly exposed himself to two middle school girls, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said.
On Thursday, June 5, 2025, members of the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit arrested Omer Sogutcu, 36, of Garfield and charged him with two counts of sexual assault by contact and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
He was arrested at the charter school’s district office in Fair Lawn and transported to the Hudson County Correctional Facility, pending his first court appearance.
The crimes are alleged to have occurred in October 2024 at the Hudson Arts and Science Middle School, where Sogutcu is employed as an IT professional. Two female students, younger than 13, reported Sogutcu exposed himself and asked them to engage in sexual conduct. — CANESSA Sogutcu
Pearn
NJOAG: KEARNY WOMAN 1 OF 2 CHARGED IN BRIBERY SCHEME
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com NJ ATTORNEY GENERAL
Kearny resident is one of two to be charged in connection to a wild bribery scheme, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Office of Public Integrity & Accountability said today.
Whitney DaSilva, 38, of Kearny and Steven Carr, 54, of Staten Island have been charged with bribery and conspiracy while Carr has been additionally charged with theft by deception.
It’s all the results of an investigation by the OPIA Corruption Bureau that revealed they allegedly pursued a bribe from a Union Township business owner, representing they had a connection to a Union Township official and falsely claiming the official was requesting the bribe.
As alleged in the complaint, Carr claimed he could use a personal connection with a Union Township official to assist a business owner entangled in
legal issues with the township — if the owner paid the official over $10,000, with Carr purportedly acting as the intermediary.
DaSilva, knowing about the scheme, offered to pass the bribe money from the business owner to Carr.
It is alleged Carr falsely represented to the business owner the bribe amount and payment details had come directly from the township official.
In fact, the investigation did not reveal any evidence the township official was part of the scheme.
“As alleged, these defendants tried to get a business owner to pay a bribe. Instead, the owner did the right thing and reported it to law enforcement,” Platkin said. “As evidenced by these charges, my office takes such allegations seriously, and we call upon
other members of the public to come forward when they learn of potentially improper influence over, or bribery of, government actors.”
“As the charges in this case show, bribery schemes don’t pay,” Drew Skinner, executive director of the OPIA, said. “They will only earn you a criminal case.”
Based on documents filed in the case, the crimes allegedly occurred between February and May 2024, as the owner of an establishment in Union was involved in administrative proceedings with the municipality related to the business.
Based on information learned during the investigation, DaSilva introduced the business owner to Carr, who said he knew a township official and, if the business owner paid him a large sum — at various times quoted as between $10,000 and $15,000 in cash — to deliver to the official, the owner’s legal issues purportedly would be “resolved.”
DaSilva, knowing of and acting
in concert with Carr in the bribery scheme, offered to pass the bribe money from the business owner to Carr and encouraged the business owner to pay the claimed bribe.
Second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000.
Third-degree charges can result in a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
OPINION & VIEWPOINTS
COMMENT
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
With the primary election complete, it’s a signal the real silly season is not far off. And yet, even leading up to the election, there has already been more misinformation out there than ever before.
The vitriol and hyperbolic comments that have appeared on social media in the last few months is something one might expect on a national level, but it has infected this area in ways once thought unimaginable, by some of the most under-aware buffoons you’ll ever meet.
And unfortunately, Facebook is often the reason it has happened locally. Far too often, those guilty of the most egregious lies and, in some cases, comments that are without a doubt libelous in nature, get away with, without impunity and without consequences.
And in a world filled with artificial intelligence now, it’s made exceptionally worse by cowards who make false statements and create imagery under fake names to escape the consequences that would befall anyone using a real name.
So what is this all about?
Well, let this serve as a reminder: Just because someone says something or writes something on a social-media post, it doesn’t
Lisa
In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016
M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
mean it’s true.
In fact, Pope Leo XIV spoke to this kind of nonsense when he was Cardinal Robert Prevost.
Noting he had his own presence, then, on Facebook and Twitter, he warned of the importance using those sites the right way, saying social media can be beneficial only “if it’s used properly, of course.”
And he notes those who don’t possess critical-discernment abilities too easily fall into the trap of believing all they read.
“We have to know how to listen — not to judge, not to shut doors as if we hold all the truth and no one else has anything to offer,” the Pope said.
Pope Leo’s words are quite applicable to what we see happening around here. And it is therefore imperative we all read things discerningly and critically when there are folks who just refuse to be truthful and who refuse to take accountability for their words, their actions, their abhorrent lies.
As we enter the months leading to November, we cannot forget that as beneficial as social media can be at times, it can be far more detrimental when it’s used improperly. You are going to see things that are flat-out wrong, lies.
When you do, speaking up and speaking out against it all should not be optional. Instead, it should be the rule of thumb.
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager
New curb opening on Schuyler Ave. at Franklin School will improve drop-offs, area traffic
Sometime in the middle to late September, parents dropping off children at Franklin School will be significantly easier thanks to a collaboration with Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, Police Chief Scott Macfie and Superintendent of Schools Flora Encarnacao.
Here’s how it will work. At the start of the school day, parents will be able to enter the Franklin School parking lot via Kingsland Avenue. Once there, children will be let off
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Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster
and drivers would then proceed east to Schuyler Avenue, where the fence will be unlocked and open. When there’s an opening in the flowing traffic, drivers will then make a right turn onto Schuyler Avenue south.
Same thing happens when parents come to pick their children up at day’s end.
Now, if you’re thinking perhaps this will become chaotic if a parent driver decides to make a left onto Schuyler north, think
See FRANKLIN, Page 8
Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com Sports Writer
Doyle, Encarnacao and Macfie stand at the location of the curb cut at the Franklin School parking lot near Schuyler Avenue. Notice the delineators in the center of Schuyler Avenue.
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FRANKLIN
Continued from Page 6
Delineators, as seen in the photo on page 6, have been installed and will make a left turn at the opening impossible.
There are stop and do not enter signs at Schuyler Avenue. Drivers, under no circumstances, will be permitted to enter the Franklin lot by making a right turn off Schuyler Avenue south.
This was all made possible by the aforementioned Doyle, Macfie and Encarnacao. But it won’t be an option until at least mid-September, allowing school administrators enough time to explain the new process to parents in writing and at back-to-school events.
Once that’s completed, the fencing will open.
And it’s all yet another example of just how efficient the town and school officials are when they work together.
“We deeply appreciate the collaboration with
Mayor Doyle, Chief Macfie and the Kearny Police Department in developing this new traffic pattern at Franklin School,” Encarnacao said.
“We believe this initiative will greatly assist in ensuring the safety of our school community during the drop-off and pick-up of students. We look forward to introducing this new plan to families at the beginning of the school year.”
Doyle, meanwhile, appears as enthusiastic as Encarnacao.
“I am pleased, once again, to work with the superintendent of schools, Flora Encarnacao, and the chief, in addressing and implementing a safer drop off at Franklin School for the next school year,” Doyle said.
“Chief Scott Macfie encouraged us to install delineators to discourage parents from making a left turn crossing oncoming traffic. Hudson County Commissioner Al Cifelli was helpful in moving this project forward.”
— CANESSA
ROBBERY
Continued from Page 1
Firearms records confirmed a 9mm handgun was registered to him. Within 30 minutes of the crime, detectives had established a perimeter around the gym, which had its lights off and all doors and windows obscured from the inside.
A few hours later, Kearny detectives and the Hudson County Regional SWAT Team executed arrest and search warrants at the suspect’s gym. As Brown resisted arrest and assaulted officers while attempting to flee on foot, officers gave chase and ultimately apprehended him.
The Hudson County drone was deployed to assist in locating the suspect.
During the pursuit, Brown discarded additional items of
evidentiary value, which were later recovered. Inside the gym, detectives recovered several more pieces of evidence linking him to the crime.
Observer Editor Kevin A. Canessa Jr. may be reached at kc@theobserver.com. Follow him on Facebook & Twitter @ kevincanessa. again.
Brown was charged with first-degree robbery and various other criminal offenses, after which he was transported to the Hudson County Jail, South Kearny.
Said police Chief Scott Macfie: “Violence will not be tolerated in our community. We remain committed to using every available resource to capture dangerous offenders. Our continued investment in modern technology from surveillance cameras to drone capabilities has once again proven essential in resolving critical incidents.”
June 11, 2025
SPORTS & HEALTH AT THE MEET OF CHAMPS
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Gabi Pifano has long believed that she had the ability to be one of the state’s top throwers. Wednesday, the Kearny senior proved without a shadow of a doubt that she is one of the state’s best.
At Wednesday’s NJSIAA State Outdoor Track Meet of Champions in Pennsauken, Pifano became the first athlete from Kearny to medal at MOC in more than 20 years when she took eighth in the Shot Put with a throw of 39-07.25.
The performance capped off an incredible turnaround for Pifano, who due in large part to an ankle injury suffered late in indoor season didn’t even hit the 35-foot mark until the North Jersey, Section 1, Group Championships, less than three weeks prior.
“I always knew I had the po tential, I just wasn’t there yet,” said Pifano. “I don’t think I would’ve seen myself come this far after the (regular) season I had, but I knew I had to try.”
“She seemed pretty com fortable (heading into MOC),” Kearny head coach Al Perez said. “She’s been in a lot of big meets and then at that point we told her, you’re playing with house money here and just go out and then enjoy it,”
Pifano, who was placed in the second group of throwers based on her performance in the Group 4 Championships. It didn’t take long for Pifano to grab everyone’s attention, when on her first attempt, she threw the 39-07.25, which was more than a foot longer than her previous one just a few days prior.
“It was a goal I’ve been trying to hit all season,” Pifano said. “I knew the throw was going to be good once I entered into the circle. When I heard the mark, I started jumping up and down and ran to Coach (Scot Weaver).”
“I just saw it in her eyes. She was focused and confident,” said Weaver, Kearny’s throwing coach. “There was no drama in her eyes, no rattled, no anxiety, just let’s go.”
After two more strong throws, Pifano held first place by herself heading into the final group of 10. From there she had to endure the agonizing wait to see if her score would remain in the top eight and earn a spot in the medal round.
Once there, Pifano had three more throws, one of which clipped the 39-foot mark.
“The coaches and I were holding our breaths counting each throw and writing it down to see if I made it or not,”
Pifano said. “At some points, I thought it was over and wouldn’t make it. I had never felt so anxious before!”
“It was just great,” Weaver said. “It was great to see her have fun with the sport. It’s rewarding.”
It was the kind of reward Pifano would have had trouble envisioning weeks earlier. While she was able to continue competing despite the ankle injury, she clearly wasn’t herself and the results showed that.
Even though her throws were in the low 30s, they were strong enough to win the HCTCA Relays and the South Hudson Championship titles.
During the North Jersey, Section 1, Group 4 Championships on May 16-17, Pifano set a new personal record in the Shot Put at 35-06.75, to medal in the event as well as in the Discus and Javelin.
Pifano took gold in the Javelin and Shot Put, and silver in the Discus the following weekend at the Hudson County Championships.
Then, on May 31, the second day of the Group 4 Championships, Pifano enjoyed her breakthrough moment when she threw a school record distance of 38-06.00 to secure a spot in the final group and earn one of 30 spots for Meet of Champions.
“The past weeks have been exhilarating and very exciting!” said Pifano, who will throw at East Stroudsburg University next season. “I have never felt so alive in my training and competing. It’s such a different experience when all of the training and practices start to go right and it brings you to the higher levels of competition.”
NOT AGAIN! Harrison volleyball falls in sectional final
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Anthony Sabia compared the mood within the Harrison boys volleyball lockerroom to a funeral. And while not one in the literal sense, late Friday afternoon was a moment to mourn the end of the season that ended just short of its ultimate goal of a state championship.
For the third season in a row, top-seeded Harrison saw its state tournament run end in the North Jersey, Group 1 final as the Blue Tide dropped a three-set heartbreaker to second-seeded West Caldwell Tech, 25-21, 21-25, 22-25.
And while the pain was still fresh, according to Sabia, unlike in the past when Harrison lost in the title game, there wasn’t any lament over how the Blue Tide played in this year’s matchup between two of the top nine teams in the state according to NJ.com.
“I’m definitely not mad at the result. I’m not disappointed in how we played or anything like that,” Sabia said. “I think all of us are just disappointed that the season’s over because we were having such a good time together. That’s the biggest takeaway from yesterday, that it was a premature ending of what we thought we were going to do and that’s the way sport is.
“We were hoping at some point that the odds were
See VOLLEYBALL, Page 19
Ugurlu, Iacono continue Lyndhurst run at Meet of Champions
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Sending multiple athletes to the NJSIAA Meet of Championship once didn’t seem possible at a small school like Lyndhurst. Now it has become the norm for the Golden Bears’ girls track & field team.
For the third year in a row, Lyndhurst had two girls competing at MOC, which was held at Pennsauken High School on Wednesday as senior Yasemin Ugurlu and junior Nikalena Iacono represented the Bears.
While neither medalled in their respective events, it was just the latest reminder of how they, along with senior Asya Akar, who initially qualified for the Triple Jump and was tied for one of the final spots, but was bumped from the field after a score adjustment, have continued to raise the bar for the program.
“They really set the tone with their work ethic,” head coach Rich Tuero said. “All three girls - Yasemin, Asya and Nikalena work all year round to set a very high bar.”
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April 29 – July 15
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Ugurlu placed 17th overall in the Triple Jump when she recorded a mark of 36-0. While the mark ultimately fell short of medal, it was the fourth time
in four weeks where the senior eclipsed the 36-foot mark.
During that month-long stretch, Ugurlu took first place in the Gene Littler Bergen County Championships, the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 Championships and the Bergen County Meet of Champions. She also took second place in the Group 2 Championships and Ugurlu will graduate as school record holder in the Triple Jump.
For her career, Ugurlu was a three-time Group 2 medalist and twice competed in the MOC.
“It was truly remarkable. It was a tremendous ride,”
See LYNDHURST, Page 18
Some people with glaucoma may be adversely affected by over-the-counter medications used to treat congestion and seasonal allergies. Some decongestant ingredients can cause rapid pupil dilation that may lead to a condition called acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG). When this condition is drug-induced, it can be extremely painful and may lead to permanent blindness if not reversed in time. It also causes headaches, visual disturbances, nausea, and vomiting. Some people have a narrower angle to allow aqueous humor drainage from the eye. Some medication ingredients can cause this narrow angle to close suddenly, especially in people who already have narrow-angle glaucoma. The sudden, increased pressure in
the eye can cause conditions that rapidly lead to blindness.
Even if your acute angle closure glaucoma is in only one eye, your doctor will probably treat both eyes just to be safe. If you think you have acute angle closure glaucoma, you’ll need to see an ophthalmologist right away as it’s an emergency. To schedule an appointment, please give us a call today at 201-896-0096. You’ll find our office at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.
P.S. Primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common type of glaucoma, progresses slowly and is not associated with the acute attacks and sudden intense eye pressure of acute angle-closure glaucoma.
Nikalena Iacono Yasemin Ugurlu
June 11, 2025
OBITUARIES
Susan Benenati
Susan Benenati, (nee Bowman), 73, died suddenly Thursday, June 5, 2025 at home in Kearny.
Relatives and friends visited at the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, Kearny. Cremation was private.
Born in Kearny, Susan was a lifelong resident.
Ms. Benenati was a proud member of the North Jersey Community Center of the Deaf, Inc.
She is survived by her daughters, Lisa Sebilia and her husband Vincent and Michelle Benenati-Soto and her husband, Jorge; her father, Ernest “Red” Bowman, one sister, Gail Grusenski and one brother, David Bowman.
Susan was the beloved grandmother of Emily and Frank Sebilia and Malia Soto and Jorge Soto III. She also leaves three nephews and one niece.
She was predeceased by her mother, Eleanor (Brown) Bowman and her brother-in-law Stanley Grusenski.
She was adored by her grandchildren and loved being a grandmother. Susan never missed her grandchildren’s events. She lived and loved life to the fullest and will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the John Theurer Cancer Center at www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.thiele-reid.com.
Enrique Montemuino
Enrique Montemuino, 63, of East Newark, died May 19, 2025.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Holy Cross Church in Harrison. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Born in Spain, Enrique served in the military there and
immigrated to Brooklyn in 1979. He has lived in East Newark since 1995. Enrique was a project manager in the construction business for many years. He enjoyed gardening and being out in nature. A lover of all animals, his fish and birds held a special place in his heart. Above all, Enrique cherished time spent with his family.
The son of the late Juan and Francisca Montemuino, Enrique was the beloved husband of Maria; loving father of Ivan Montemuino and Silvia Montemuino; and caring brother of Luis, Adolfo, Manuela and the late Juan and Manuel.
Ersia B. Granda
Erisa B. Granda (known as Ersia Bagda Jaramillo Sanchez in her home country of Ecuador) died May 18, 2025. She was 91.
Visiting was at the Armit-
age & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Her funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Cecilia Church. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Ersia was the wife of the late Agnelio and mother of Marco, Renee, Jenny, Mariana, Raul and Victor. Also surviving is one sister and two brothers, 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
H. Gordon Kimball Jr.
H. Gordon Kimball Jr., 85, of North Arlington died on May 21, 2025.
Born in Newark, Gordon lived in North Arlington and Jensen Beach, Florida.
Gordon was a partner at Extel Communications in Ridgewood and was a member of the Model A Ford Club.
He is survived by his loving wife Joan (nee Sprengel) Kimball. Dear father of David
Shaw-Buyus
All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
L. Kimball (his wife Agnes) and Lori Torsiello (her husband Benjamin). Brother of the late Robert W. Kimball. Also surviving are his beloved grandchildren Aleksandra, Dalton and Ava.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. A prayer service was officiated by Pastor Susan Nelson Colaneri.
Cremation was private.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society or the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital would be appreciated.
There will be a memorial service at a later date.
Manuel Garcia Orellan
Manuel Garcia Orellan of Harrison died peacefully on May 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Manuel was born in Puebla de Caramiñal, Galicia, Spain, to his devoted parents, Juan García Ferrol and Dolores Orellán Olveira. From a young age, he demonstrated strength, humility and a deep sense of duty. He left home early and joined the Merchant Marines as a way to support his family — not only his younger brother but all of his siblings and loved ones.
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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
Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916
You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.
Armitage & Wiggins Funeral
• Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657
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His time at sea took him to many countries and those travels became a meaningful part of who he was. His stories of life aboard ships and the places he visited were told with pride and detail and he cherished sharing them with his family. Through his memories, his children and loved ones were given a window into the world.
Early in life, Manuel formed a lasting bond with Estrella, the love of his life and childhood friend. When she moved to Madrid, he followed her, writing heartfelt letters and telegrams filled with affection and devotion. Their love endured distance and time, culminating in marriage in Madrid. In 1967, they courageously immigrated
to the United States to build a better life together and start a family.
They settled in New Jersey and began a life grounded in love, perseverance and hard work. Manuel entered the construction industry, where his dedication and tireless work ethic earned him a quick promotion to foreman. He later became the proud owner of B.W.M. Contracting, a company he led with integrity until his retirement in 2000.
He was also a proud and long-standing member of the Construction Workers Union Local 472 in Newark for over 55 years — a reflection of his lifelong commitment to his craft and community.
Manuel was the beloved husband of Estrella; the cherished
Premier Car e TALK S
DIALYSIS
Dialysis is a life-sustaining medical treatment for individuals with kidney failure, when the kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves a machine that removes blood from the body, cleans it through a dialyzer, and returns it. At the same time, peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdominal cavity as a natural filter by infusing and draining a special fluid. Dialysis helps regulate critical levels of electrolytes, remove waste products, and manage fluid balance, playing a vital role in maintaining health when kidney function is severely compromised. Comprehensive care includes dietary modifications, medication management, and regular monitoring to optimize outcomes. Some people develop kidney prob-
lems for no known reason. Kidney failure can be a long-term condition, or it can come on suddenly after a severe illness or injury. This type of kidney failure may go away as you recover. It’s possible to live 10 to 20 years on dialysis. The outlook varies depending on your age, overall health, the cause of kidney failure and other factors. If you get a kidney transplant, you can stop dialysis when your new kidney starts working. 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. While kidney dialysis extends life and improves quality of life for patients with end-stage renal disease(ESRD), it can be time-consuming and physically taxing, often requiring lifestyle adjustments.
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.
father of Yolanda (Richard Durkot) and Manuela; and the loving brother of Josefa, Dolores, Angeles and the late Juan. He was also a devoted uncle and godfather to his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom brought joy to his life.
A truly stoic man, Manuel led with quiet strength, calm resolve and a deeply rooted sense of responsibility. He was the kind of man who offered help without hesitation and without need for recognition — his generosity was quiet and constant, often so humble that even his right hand didn’t know what his left was doing. He was the steady presence in the lives of his loved ones, always putting family first and standing as a
“Make
quiet pillar of support, wisdom and grace.
His legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the memories he created, and the love he gave so freely. His stories — especially of his travels and the lessons they taught — live on as part of the family’s heritage, just as they were a part of his.
Visitation was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.
Francisco Jose Gude
Francisco Jose Gude (Frank) died peacefully Saturday, May 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Frank was under the
care of the doctors and nurses at Yale Medical Hospital Liver Transplant. For the last five years, he was always amusing his doctors and nurses with his jokes, always bringing a laugh or smile to the many people who cared for him.
Frank was a good friend to many people, even strangers, always lending a helping hand and offering his many talents. Our family could always count on him for whatever we needed repaired and fixed. He loved his Giants and the tailgate parties, he loved to tell jokes, but what he loved the most were his three children.
He was so very proud of them: Alexandra pursuing
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Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
Dr. Hector Aguilar
June 11, 2025
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her master’s degree; Nicholas with his ready smile and sunny disposition; and Ethan playing hockey. No matter how unwell he felt, Frank was always on the sidelines cheering and encouraging Ethan.
Frank graduated from Kearny High School, where he was part of the crew team, rowing with his best friend Steve Zinser. Frank considered Steve as his brother. Frank was a talented technical drafter, collaborating with architects and designers in creating unique floor plans for kitchens and bathrooms. He worked for Ulrich Inc. in New Jersey for many years.
He is survived by his three children, Alexandra, Nicholas and Ethan, as well as by his mother, Manuela Gude, his brother Salvador Gude and his two sisters, Manolita Gude and Rosario Eccles and many nieces and nephews.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church, Kearny. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Francisco J. Gude may be made to the Yale New Haven Hospital. Please make check payable to YNHH/ Transplant Fund and mail to YNHH Development, P.O. Box 1849, New Haven, Conn. 06508. Please include Francisco J. Gude on the memo line. Secure online
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:735.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 6/12/25 downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Vegetation Safety Management Project I-287 (N), Morris, Passaic, and Bergen Counties Federal Project No: 0287367 DP No: 25440 Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Specifically, the contractor, sub recipient or subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this contract. The contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 26 in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy as the recipient deems appropriate. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor, Division of Wage and hour Compliance at the time of bid.
The Department, in accordance with Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252 U.S.C., 49 C.F.R., Parts 21 and 23 issued pursuant to such Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will afford minority business enterprises full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not discriminate against any bidder on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap in the project award.
gifts may be made at www.givetoynhh. org/donate-transplantation-center.
Nancy Carole
Nancy Carole (nee LaMedica) died peacefully on June 4, 2025. She is survived by her loving sister, Eleanor Morey; her children, John T. Berko, Annmarie Tesarck, Michele-Lee Shapiro and son-in-law
Steven Shapiro; grandchildren Bethany, Rachel and Joshua Tesarck, Starr and Parker Shapiro and Makayla and Jonathon Berko; and great-grandchildren Vivienne Tesarck and Layla Pendlebury. She was predeceased by her beautiful parents, Michael and Marie LaMedica, former spouse John P. Berko and granddaughter Makenzie Berko. She was an amazing mother, sister, daughter, grandmother and friend to so many. Raised in Union, she achieved her dream of becoming a dance teacher at a very young age. Owner and principal instructor of Nancy Carole School of Dance for nearly 40 years, “Miss Nancy” was a gamechanger in the world of dance while inspiring thousands of people over the years. Many of her students found a second home at the dance studio, whether on Elm Street in Kearny or later in Lyndhurst.
Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com.
You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site.
All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our various Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court
One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Phone: 973-601-6690 Phone: 856-486-6623
New Jersey Department of Transportation Division of Procurement Bureau of Construction Services 1035 Parkway Avenue PO Box 600 Trenton, NJ 08625
($115.50 05/28/25, 06/04/25, 06/11/25)
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:735.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 6/12/25 at which time the bid proposals submitted will be downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Pavement Preservation North Contract #4, FY 2024, Contract No. 058253170, Boroughs of Fairview, Ridgefield, Wharton and Rockaway and Townships of North Bergen, Mine Hill, Dover, Rockaway and Denville, Hudson, Bergen and Morris Counties
Dance was just one of the many gifts that Miss Nancy bestowed. She produced the most innovative and entertaining recitals, formed the NC Dance Co., one of the first competitive dance troupes in New Jersey, founded the “Places, Please!” performing arts company, developed a new business model for dance studios, mentored students and young dance teachers alike, created an inspiring exercise program, consulted for costume companies, taught for the local recreation department, was the director of fitness at King’s Court Health Club and so much more.
A champion of education, she founded the Nancy Carole College Scholarship Fund for high school seniors. She also gave back to the community through her work as a member and past president of the Rotary Club of Kearny, taking a lead role in granting the club’s annual scholarships.
Nancy was the inaugural recipient of the Hudson County Council of the Arts Lifetime Achievement Award and a Women’s History Month award recipient.
Retirement did not stop her, as she founded and performed with the Lake Ridge Dansations in Toms River. Her vibrant spirit and sense of humor was uplifting and contagious. The heavenly angels have a new choreographer.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Nancy’s memory to a charity of your choice.
A funeral Mass was celebrated at St.
Federal Project No: F00S036 UPC NO: 253170
DP No: 25113
Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Specifically, the contractor, sub recipient or subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this contract. The contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 26 in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy as the recipient deems appropriate.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid.
The Department, in accordance with Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252 U.S.C., 49 C.F.R., Parts 21 and 23 issued pursuant to such Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will afford minority business enterprises full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not discriminate against any bidder on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap in the project award.
Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express.
Luke Roman Catholic Church, Toms River.
Gloria Jean Morton
Gloria Jean Morton died June 1, 2025. She was 85.
Gloria was born in Pennsylvania and lived most of her life in Kearny.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Kearny. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Gloria enjoyed her career in woman’s clothing sales at Gails in Kearny.
Wife of the late Robert Morton, she was the loving mother of Andrew Colamedici (Carol), Susan McLaren (Frank Shrimp) and Joseph Colamedici (Jennifer). Dear grandmother of Amanda MacDonnell (Len), Anthony, Joseph and Jonathan Colamedici, Andrew McLaren and the late James Colamedici. She is also survived by her great-grandson Colin MacDonnell.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you please consider making a donation to Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Kearny.
Matthew J. Gilmore
Matthew J. Gilmore died May 25, 2025.
He was 34.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Cremation
See OBITUARIES, Page 18
Plans, specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our various Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Phone: 973-601-6690 Phone: 856-486-6623
New Jersey Department of Transportation Division of Procurement Bureau of Construction Services 1035 Parkway Avenue PO Box 600 Trenton, NJ 08625
($120.00 05/28/25, 0/04/25, 06/11/25)
Town of Kearny, Zoning Board of Adjustment hereby notices that the following resolution was adopted at a regular meeting of the Kearny Zoning Board of Adjustment held 06-03-25: #2025.09 – Variance appl., 389 Beech Street, Owner/ Applicant: Jersey KY Corp , To permit construction of a deck and concrete driveway. Approved. #2025.10 – Non-conforming use and structure appl., 163 Laurel Avenue, Owner/Applicant: Estate of Phyllis DeFranco, To seek approval of the Board to continue the use of the existing dwelling on the Property as a two-family dwelling that was originally constructed as a one-family, but later converted to contain two dwelling units without the benefit of zoning approvals or required permits. Approved.
Notice is hereby given that the following resolution was adopted at a regular meeting of the Kearny Planning Board held 06-04-25:
#564A – Cumulative and Final Extension Requests, 322 Belleville Turnpike, Owner/Applicant: Shivalik Properties, To permit the alteration of a building from an abandoned car wash to a retail liquor store. After delays due to COVID, the applicant moved forward with the project and upon further meetings with the Department of Transportation, it was discovered that the NJDOT misplaced the file. The applicant then was required to recreate the file and the documentation submitted to the satisfaction of the NJDOT. Approved.
#601 – First Extension Request, 170 Harrison Avenue, Owner/Applicant: Kearny Chicken, LLC, To construct a fast food restaurant on the subject property. In addition, the Applicant proposes to construct a parking lot and improvements regarding drainage, landscaping, lighting, and signage. Approved. Adoption of a Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, presented to the Planning Board of the Town of Kearny, in detail, by M. McKinley Mertz of Heyer, Gruel & Associates. A copy of the Housing Element and Fair Share Plan is on file and available for public inspection at the Town Clerk’s Office, at 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, New Jersey during normal business hours as of Friday, May 23, 2025. Approved.
By: Jennifer Diaz, Planning Board Secretary
($35.50 ONLINE 06/05/25 NEWSPAPER 06/11/25)
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)
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 05W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
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 (973) 420-0139 04W03
Utilities separate, Access to yard, 10 min walk to PATH No Pets/ Smoking Available July 1st Call leave message or text (917)294-4024 05W03
KEARNY
KEARNY Good area, 2 BR’s, Kitchen, Large LR & DR combined, 1 Bath, $2300 + 1.5 months security Utilities not included, No Pets/Smoking Available Now (973)714-2368 or (201)463-6303 05W03
KEARNY New renovated 2nd floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK, DR $2200 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate No Pets/ smoking Available Now (551)655-7394 03W03
KEARNY 2nd FL. 1 BR. LR, Dining Room, EIK. Parking or storage garage included. No pets/ no smoking. $2000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Separate. Available now (201)8891867 04W03
KEARNY 3rd floor. Newly renovated. 1 bedroom, LR, EIK. $1500 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Separate. Proximity to PATH and bus lines. Available Now. No Pets No Smoking. (201)889-3118 04W03
KEARNY 3 BR’s, LR, Eat in Kitchen Close to Kearny Ave. $1,800 + 1.5 month security. Utilities not included. No Pets/Smoking. (201)680-1298 After 5PM 05W03
KEARNY Newly renovated Large 1 BR, Featuring full ceramic tile Bathroom, EIK, LR, Office & BR, Hardwood floors throughout $1700 + Utilities and security deposit Available Now No Pets July 1st (201)991-6942 05W03
Security See Super, 654 Elm St, Kearny. Laundry facility on premises Call Sofia after 3pm (201) 998-3516 for appointment 03W03
LYNDHURST 1st foor 1 BR, LR & Computer-room 1 Bath, Kitchen $1900 + 1 months security Utilities included No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)7094906 03W03
LYNDHURST 1 Large BR, EIK. Walk in closet or office. $1700 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Close to NYC Trans. No Pets/ Smoking. Background check required. Available July 1st (646)8314342 05W03
N.ARLINGTON
Studio apartment with separate kitchen on 1st floor of garden apartment complex. $1350.00 per month, heat and hot water included. One month security. No pets, no smoking. Parking available. Laundry room on premises. Single or couple preferred. Call between 10:00am to 7:00pm. (201) 997-2341 04W03
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 lease1½ months security deposit No pets / No smoking Credit report & employment verification required Available July 1 201-723-3415 04W03
Recently renovated 2 BR First floor apartment. LR, DR, EIK. Washer/dry hook up. No Pets/Smoking. Credit report. $2100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Near Transportation. Available Now (973) 838-1662 02W06 N. ARLINGTON 1 bedroom, 1 bath, HW floors, Newly painted. $1,700 + 1.5 mth Security. 1 year lease. H/HW included. Off street Parking No Dogs Available Now Call (732)237-4682 03W03
KEARNY
2 BR From $1,950 + 1.5 Months security. HT/HW included. See Super 6 Woodland Ave. Apt. 1 (201)892-8035 for appointment 03W03
KEARNY Newly renovated, 2 bedrooms, 1st floor, 2 blocks from Kearny Avenue. Washer/Dryer hook up. $2,350/Month + 1.5 Month Security. Utilities separate. Must have excellent credit. No Smoking. No Pets. Available Now. (201) 467-6878 04W03
LYNDHURST Newly renovated two bedroom apartment in Lyndhurst. Heating included. Laundry hook up. Walk to train, bus, schools and shops. $2350 + 1 1/2 month security deposit. No Pets/Smoking Available July 1st (201) 312-9115 05W03
N.ARLINGTON 1st floor 1 BR, LR, EIK, DR/office, Basement storage $2000 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Access to yard, Washer/Dryer Hook-up, Front & Back entrance Off street Parking available No Dogs/Smoking Available July 1st Call leave message or text (917)294-4024 05W03
N.ARLINGTON
One bedroom apartment on second floor of garden apartment complex. $1875.00 per month, heat and hot water included. One month security. Parking available. Storage in basement. Laundry room on premises. No pets or smoking. Single or couple preferred. Call (201) 997-2341 between 10:00am to 7:00pm 04W03
N.ARLINGTON 2nd fl. Large apartment 3 BR’s, EIK, LR, Newly renovated, 1 block from NYC transportation. Walking distance to schools, shopping and parks. No pets. No smoking. $2500 + 1.5 months security. 1 car Garage avl. for additional price. Please call (973) 5171342 05W03
N.ARLINGTON 3rd fl. 4 rooms, 2 BR’s, EIK, LR, Newly renovated, 1 block from NYC transportation. Walking distance to schools, shopping and parks. No pets. No smoking. $1950 + 1.5 months security. 1 car Garage avl. for additional price. Please call (973) 517-1342 05W03
BELLEVILLE Amore Triple dresser drawers, share kitchen & Bath Gentlemen Preferred $750, Utilities separate Available July 1st (862)888-8626 05W01
WALLINGTON Mother-daughter house with oversized rooms for rent in Wallington NJ. 4 bedrooms/3 bathrooms/two-car garage/ fenced-in-yard with porch. No pets. $4800 + 1.5 months security (862) 505-6877 04W03
HARRISON Large room $700 + 1 month security, everything included cable & internet. Available now (973) 5253860 04W03
KEARNY Private entrance, Share Bath, Cable, internet, $750 + 1 months security Utilities included. Woman preferred No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)680-1553 05W03
N. NEWARK Forest Hill section. $750 + 1 months security. Utilities included. Shared Bath, No Kitchen. No smoking (973) 7526877 03W03
LYNDHURST $300 per month Available now Call (973)277-0942 04W03
KEARNY Cozy furnished room, for 1 Person. In a quite house and neighborhood. Sink & refrigerator in room. Street parking available. Close to public transportation. Posively no smoking or pets. Gentlemen Preferred. Good credit and 4 weeks security required. $150 Per week call or text Pamela (973)830-7498 04W04
N.ARLINGTON Ridge Road Store/Office Parking available $925 + utilities. Great Space. Owner (201)509-6965 03W03
KEARNY 1000 sq/ft perfect for office $2700 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Available Now (201) 889-3118 04W06
KEARNY
Davis Ave,
Office attached Lease available (973)508-4884 05W03
HARRISON
KEARNY
HARRISON
KEARNY
KEARNY
DRIVER
Needed for Newark based wholesale seafood company No CDL required. Must have current NJ Driver license Please Call 973-623-8989 04W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
Fire causes damage to Copeland Ave. home
By Paul Haggerty Special to The Observer
Exterminator needed will train (201) 438-1987 53W06
LABORER
The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for full-time laborers in the Department of Public Works. Duties will include street cleaning, street/sewer repairs, line painting, truck washing, maintenance/clean-up of parks and playgrounds, shade tree maintenance and other related duties.
Valid NJ driver’s license required. CDL Class B with air brake endorsement required within one year of starting employment. Town will assist in securing CDL. 40 hours per week, annual salary $38,316-$62,627. Application available at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ Deadline to apply is 6/30/2025 04W04
On Saturday, May 31, 2025 at approximately 1:40 p.m., the Lyndhurst Police Department Communications Center received multiple reports on a residential structure fire on the lower 100 block of Copeland Avenue. Chiefs arrived on scene and a working fire assignment was confirmed.
LYNDHURST FIRE DEPT.
engine company from Secaucus to provide station coverage in town.
One firefighter was evaluated for a minor injury and there were no civilian injuries.
ASSISTANCE NEEDED For older woman In Kearny, NJ 2 days a week Se habla español Please call (201) 401-6259
Heavy fire was visible from the second-floor windows on the A/D corner of the home. All occupants had self-evacuated prior to fire department arrival. A F.A.S.T. Team from North Arlington Fire Department was dispatched immediately, following standard protocol.
Upon the arrival of Engine 3, a 1 3/4” line was advanced to the second floor and an aggressive interior attack was initiated, knocking down the main body of
fire quickly. Crews immediately assisted from Engine 1 and Rescue 4, while Truck 1 performed vertical ventilation. Extensive overhaul was necessitated because of the volume of fire coupled with the interior construction layout in the attic space.
A short time later, the second alarm assignment was transmitted for an additional engine company to the scene from Rutherford, for a ladder company from East Rutherford and an
Chief Parker Luland commends the steadfast efforts of the initial responding companies and those mutual-aid departments that augmented their efforts.
The fire was deemed unintentional in nature and was investigated by the Lyndhurst Fire Prevention Bureau.
Also assisting on scene were the first responding Lyndhurst Police Department patrol officers and the Lyndhurst and Nutley fire department EMS.
The residence was deemed uninhabitable by the Lyndhurst Building Department.
991-1600
OBITUARIES
Continued from Page 15
was private.
Matt leaves behind the most important person in his life, Samantha Degoias, who he planned on marrying and starting a family with. Matt was the son Samantha Gallacher and the late Jack Gilmore. Grandson of the late George and Mary Anne Steinis and Anita and
the late John Gilmore. He was the brother of Ryan, Kiley and Shaylin. He was the nephew of Michele and the late Danny Gilmore, Kevin and Michelle Gilmore along with Erin and the late Denis Gilmore.
He was extremely close to his cousins Haidyn, Jack and Dylan who he would cook with on the smoker and go to the gym and take fun muscle pictures. They shared witty banter like making up names like Spaghetti Johnny. Matt had fun sharing his
memories of hanging out with his “buddy” Uncle Danny.
Matt was operations manager at SEI Investment Company. He enjoyed sharing his professionalism and finance expertise.
He had many friends over the years from childhood to adulthood. Matt was a leader at N.A. meetings. His favorite hobbies were reading, playing the guitar and working out.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Narcotics
Anonymous at www.na.org.
Bella A. Collazo
Bella A. Collazo died June 2, 2025 (six days shy of her 85th birthday).
Visiting will be Tuesday, June 10, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Her funeral service will be the following day at noon in the Holy Cross Cemetery Chapel Mausoleum, North Arlington.
Bella was the wife of the late
Ramon and loving mother to Raymond, Linda Horta (Mark), David (Kerry) and Michael. Sister of the late Holger Rosado, she is also survived by her cherished grandchildren Alex, Katelyn, Justin, Raymond Jr., Deanna, Nichols Ramon, Christina, Cecilia Bella and Marcus. Bella held a bachelor’s degree and enjoyed her employment at Rosa Real estate in Kearny.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.
LYNDHURST
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Tuero said. “All the boxes were checked as far as goals on the season and career.”
For Iacono, Wednesday marked her first career MOC appearance, qualifying in the Shot Put. The talented multi-sport junior had a rough start to the day, fouling on her first throw, then posting a very disappointing score on her second attempt.
Iacono bounced back on her third and final attempt, throwing a 34-11, which was good for 18th place in the state.
The throw served as one more highlight in a breakout junior season in which Iacono took first in the Gene Littler Bergen County Championships and in the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 Championships.
“It’s huge momentum for her,” said Tuero. “This is what she has worked for. We are looking forward to a huge 2026.”
If recent history is any indication, Iacono certainly won’t be the only one with a huge 2026 season.
Also at Wednesday’s Meet of Champions, Bloomfield senior Alexander Travers finished in 17th place in the Boys 400 Meter Hurdles with a time of 56.83 to cap off a career that saw him win the Essex County Championship this spring and help give the Bengals their first team title since 2001.
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
VOLLEYBALL
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going to swing (in our favor) and we weren’t going to be on the wrong end of this again, because we’ve put in the work. It’s just a bit frustrating.”
Harrison opened the third set by scoring three of the first four points. But West Caldwell Tech rallied by taking four of the next five points to take a 5-4 lead. And while West Caldwell Tech never pulled away - the biggest lead it had from that point forward was three points - Harrison never led again despite tying the set four different times.
“They just hold their emotions really well. That’s usually what people say about us, that we’re able to stay composed,” Sabia said. “I think they do a really, really good job of that as well to come into our gym all those times (and win). Even during summer league, the gym is packed and they’re able to hold their composure and hold their nerves and find a way to finish matches against us.”
West Caldwell Tech ddefeated Harrison in last year’s North Jersey, Group 1 final and in each of
the past two seasons for the championship in Harrison’s summer volleyball league.
Early on, Harrison, ranked No. 6 in the state, had every reason to feel this year would be different when it led for nearly the entirety of the first set to take an early advantage.
West Caldwell, ranked No. 9, took control in the second set, leading by as many as seven points, before holding on and forcing the decisive third set.
Timothy Smith posted a gamehigh 18 kills for West Caldwell Tech with Ibrahim Dessources adding 12. Dennis Ayora dished
out 37 assists and John Jimenez had 20 digs.
Alatim DeLeon recorded 13 kills and three blocks for Harrison. Ryan Manini had nine kills and Yamil Espinoza added eight with nine digs. Jonathan Petrillo had a teambest 12 digs to go with four kills and Jeremy Rivera added 32 assists.
Rivera, Espinoza and DeLeon are among the 11 seniors that the Blue Tide graduate this spring. And while they didn’t win a state championship, it’s a group that at 28-3 produced
Lawdanski receives MSDA diploma
arguably the best Harrison team in nearly a decade and was instrumental in winning three straight Hudson County titles and reaching the North, Group 1 finals.
“I know they’re still really hurting. I know that they really wanted to do this for themselves, for each other, for me, for the school, and they really could have,” said Sabia. “But I think given some time they’ll be able to look back and really understand the gravity of what they were able to accomplish together over these last two years,”
Photo couresy of Amy Ullrich
Ava Lawdanski, of Kearny, is seen here receiving her diploma from Mt. St. Dominic Academy Principal Karen D’Avino June ON 1. Lawdanski will attend Seton Hall University in the fall.
