HONORING THOSE LOST
Photos by Ron Smits & the Borough of North Arlington
Scores of residents throughout the area came out in full force for Memorial Day remembrances and parades. Clockwise, from top left, first, it’s the Kearny Police Department’s honor guard at Kearny’s parade. Then, it’s Bergen County Commissioner Steve Tanelli greeting residents along Ridge Road at North Arlington’s parade. And finally, a youngster waves his flag on Belgrove Drive, Kearny, as the St. Columcille United Gaelic pipe band plays.
QP Knights hosting annual birthday bash & BBQ
The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus hosts its annual birthday BBQ Sunday, June 14, at 1 p.m., at Columbian Club Hall, at 194 River Road, North Arlington. All proceeds will go to benefit the council’s 2026 Special Needs Drive. The Knights will serve hot dogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, sausages (hot and sweet), lemon-peppered chicken, corn-on-the-cob, Cappelluti’s potato and macaroni salad, pickles, dessert and refreshments. We will also offer a gluten-free menu cooked on a dedicated grill. The cost is $25
per person, $15 for kids aged 6 to 11. Reservations must be made by calling (201) 988-0183 by Thursday, June 11. The Knights ask those attending to donate a non-expired, non-perishable food item for the ongoing Food for Families Project.
Applications open for Harrison Junior Police Academy
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Harrison Junior Police Academy, which runs July 27-31 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s open to Harrisonians entering sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grades. Applications
AR N Y
NEWS BRIEFS
are available at Harrison PD headquarters. For more information send an email to lterrones@townofharrison. com or call the COP Unit at (973) 483-4510. Space is limited.
East Newark hosting Riverfront Park concert series
The Borough of East Newark hosts several concerts in the coming months at Riverfront Park’s amphitheater on Passaic Avenue.
The next concert, it’s We May Be Right, a Billy Joel cover band June 28.
Next, it’s an 80s Revolution show July 28.
Shop Deals and Specials at These Businesses:
Arcos Pastr y 401 Kearny Ave
Barbara’s Café 521 Kearny Ave
Big Stash’s Sub House 131 Kearny Ave
Brazilian Spices Resturant 141 Schuyler Ave
El Rincon Mexic ano Restaurant 137 Kearny Ave
El rincón de Doña María 255 Kearny Ave
Pollería El Hornero 422 Kearny Ave
Firepit Barbecue Kearny 300 Belleville Tpke
Hamburgao 282 Kearny Ave
Imagine Cookies by Maya @Curiosity 161 Midland Ave
Leo’s Italian Ices 736 Kearny Ave
Mi Pueblito 412 Kearny Ave
Minas Cafe 261 Kearny Ave
S abor Cuenc ano Cuisine 57 Kearny Ave
NaNa Noodle House 5 Kearny Ave
Nutrition Avenue 783 Kearny Ave
Prados Cheesesteak 426 Kearny Ave
Q ’ Onda Wey 391 Kearny Ave
Q ’tal Bar & Grill 3 Kearny Ave
Stella’s Empanadas 615 Elm St, Kearny
The Crepe Esc ape 502 Kearny Ave
The Greeks 461 Elm St
Tres Leches baker y 868 Kearny Ave
Ultra Nutrition 198 Kearny Ave
JUNE 5 thru21 th
For more information about par ticipating businesses and specials star ting June 5th, please visit w w w.kearnyeats.com
And lastly, a local artists night Aug. 28
All events kick off at 7 p.m. Bring chairs, blankets and snacks.
Kearny Knights selling patriotic lawn signs
The Knights of Columbus 6928 are selling lawn signs celebrating the United States’ 250th anniversary. Preorders may be placed by sending an email to knightsofcolumbus6928@ gmail.com. The cost is $10 per sign.
Kearny PBA and Education Association raising cash for youth soccer tournament
The PBA No. 21 and Kearny Education Association sponsor a fundraiser to benefit a World Cup soccer tournament this summer in Kearny for kids in the fifth- through the eighthgrades. Raffle tickets will be sold at $30 per ticket. Those who buy tickets will receive a World Cup-themed challenge coin honoring Kearny’s soccer history. Just 250 tickets will be sold. The
top prize is a 65-inch TV and the second prize is a 55-inch TV. Get tickets by sending an email to mekladious@kearnypba.org.
Get help paying for food from NA Health Department
The North Arlington Health Department hosts a presentation for residents of North Arlington and surrounding towns to learn how to apply for and receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Health Department, 10 Beaver Ave., June 9.
Appointments may be made by calling (201) 991-6060, ext. 123.
To make the application quicker, be prepared to present proof of income, proof of address, costs of rent and utilities, childor adult-care expenses and medical expenses for those 60 and older or for those with a disability.
There is no fee to apply. If one is ever asked to pay to apply for such benefits, it is likely a scam.
Zapata & Marks honored
At the NJ American Society for Public Administration 2026 Public Service Awards May 13, at St. Peter’s University in Jersey City, Kearny Councilman George Zapata was honored with the Public Administration Student of the Year Award by Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration. Seen here with Zapata, left, is Montclair and former Kearny Business Administrator Steve Marks, who encouraged Zapata to enroll in the program some years back. Marks, meanwhile, received the Distinguished Public Service in Government Award.
Food truck festival coming to Belleville Saturday at noon
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
It’s time to get an early jump on summer and Father’s Day as the Just Jersey Food Truck Festival pulls up to Belleville Municipal Stadium with food trucks, live music by DJ Ray Colon, games and much more Saturday, June 6.
There will also be pony rides, a petting zoo, a beer garden, games and good vibes all day long.
There will even be a wine and margarita garden for festivalgoers 21 and over.
The stars of the show, however, will be the food trucks, with their array of
unique and creative cuisine you don’t typically find down at your neighborhood diner.
Mayor Michael A. Melham says this new event does not replace the Food Truck Festival the township hosts in October, but said it will surely conjure the same neighborhood spirit.
“With an international palate of foods and activities for kids of all ages, this is the kind of event that brings our community together,” Melham said.
This event runs from noon to 8 p.m. and is free to the public. Free parking will be available at Belleville High School and at the School No. 7 parking lot.
Honoring 2 of East Newark’s finest
East Newark Police Officers Michael Trama and Claudia Makarski were recently recognized by the East Newark Council for performing CPR and using a defibrillator using life saving measures on April 9. Seen here are, from left, Capt. Junior Fiori, Director James Abbott, the officers and Sgt. Billy Erezuma.
Kearny Eats! begins Friday through June 21
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Kearny Eats! the annual event that supports Kearny restaurant and food businesses, sponsored by the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone, returns on Friday, June 5 and continues through Sunday, June 21. It’s time to once again take advantage of dozens of food and beverage deals and special menu items from participating local Kearny food businesses — from restaurants to bakeries, cafes, bars and more.
local businesses.
The KUEZ is encouraging both residents and visitors to come out and support these
“Eat in, get takeout or delivery, call in an order — make a difference and help our local businesses,” KUEZ Coordinator Linda D’Isa says. “And while you’re at it, you may discover a new favorite place to eat!”
Kearny Eats! participants represent a range of culinary choices, currently including Barbara’s Café, Big Stash’s Sub House, Brazilian Spices, The Crepe Escape, El Hornero, El Rincon Mexicano Restaurant, El Rincon
KEARNY NEWS
de Dona Maria, Firepit Barbecue Kearny, The Greeks, Imagine Cookies by Maya-by Curiosity, Leo’s Italian Ices, Mi Pueblito, NaNa Noodle House, Nutrition Avenue, Q’Onda Wey, Q’Tal Bar & Grill, Sabor Cuencano Cuisine, Stella’s Empanadas, Tres Leches Bakery and Ultra Nutrition Explore the website www.kearnyeats. com starting June 3 for a complete list of participants and specials. Keep checking back as deals continue to be added.
Follow the KUEZ on Instagram and Facebook updates on Kearny Eats! and other special events and programs in town.
Kearny’s Franklin School names May Students of the Month
Yvonne Cali, principal of Franklin School in Kearny, announces the school’s May Students of the Month. These students were chosen based on this month's mantra: “I Got This!”
Mya Castillo, Caleb Cowley, Bianca Cohetero Gomez, Emanuel Deoliveira, Chevony Dyce, Zachary Garcia, Sebastian Remache, Kimberly Medina, Brunella Torres Gama, Kelly Marca, Giacomo Torres, Blue Ivy Larrea Mejia, Xavier Araujo,
Savannah Emanuel, Benjamin Almeida Ribeiro, Aitana Moreno Rodriguez, Michelle Fajardo, Sebastian Cornejo, Sophia Rodriguez, Zarin Mahmud, Liam Turcios, Christopher Contreras, Tobiasz Opiat. Also, Ashley Perez, Anthony Almeida Alves, Gursaran Singh, Larry Hernandez, Kamila Perez, Aaliyah Giraud, Jiya Desai, Lucas Cerqueira, Vasco Ramos, Kayla Guallpa Marin, William Telli, Kaylani Aguero and Brianna Valente.
OPINION & VIEWPOINTS
COMMENT
Claude Lemieux’s death a reminder of the need to ask when mental health help is needed
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
If you’re a fan of the New Jersey Devils and are 40 or older, you remember how much he meant to so many of us. The run to the 1995 Stanley Cup was one we all still cherish — and the way Claude Lemieux led the team in scoring en route to winning the Conn Smythe Trophy is something we’ve not seen since.
And yet, here we stand just days removed from his carrying the torch into the Bell Centre as Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final was about to begin, still trying to figure out how and why Lemieux reportedly took his own life two days later in South Florida.
He was a man whose career was storied. He won the Cup three other times — in 1986 with Montreal, 1996 with Colorado and with the Devils a second time in 2000.
He had a great family, a son who even played in the National Hockey League. He received more accolades than we we can recount here. But it wasn’t enough. He’s gone, aged 60, and his loss is most tragic.
We often hear about people who unexpectedly took their own lives.
Robin Williams is perhaps the most noted in our lifetime.
And almost always, we hear about there being no warning signs or signals that could have predicted this sort of demise.
That stigma that surrounds mental health issues is deeply troubling. Too many times, we
Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
Tina
Feorenzo
hear of how people are unwilling to discuss mental-health ailments in ways we would a physical ailment.
And yet, the truth is, there are so many ways help is available to anyone struggling with mental health.
The most logical way is in the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline anyone can call from any phone at any time of day to get the help so many direly need.
No matter what, it’s time more come to the acceptance that sometimes, we just can’t do it all on our own.
And if Lemieux’s life means anything — something so much more than winning Stanley Cups — it will be that maybe his death will remind people to pick up the phone to make the call when all else seems lost.
No matter how bad it might seem, the help is there. And so please, don’t put the phone down. Make the call. It can and will get better.
Rest in peace, Pepe.
Thank you for the countless memories you created. And may your memory be a reminder of so many of the good things in our lives we so often take for granted.
Co-owner/Advertising
Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager
Boyd: Thank you for honoring me as Kearny Senior of the Year
Thank you, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, for naming me Kearny Senior Citizen of the Year. I am humbled and honored. To friends and family — thank you for your encouragement, support and especially your insight and analysis. I am grateful to be a con-
tributing member of the Kearny community. Blessings to all. Addie Boyd Kearny LETTER TO THE EDITOR
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We ask letters be kept to 250 words or fewer, though longer letters will be considered for Op-Eds.
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SPORTS & HEALTH
CHAMPIONS AGAIN!
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
As a Harrison native, Blue Tide flag football coach Dan Nankivell has long believed his home town is one embodied by its toughness and grit.
The recent NJIC Tournament showed that his flag football team have those same attributes in spades.
Twice in a span of three nights, Harrison found itself trailing only to fight back. First, in the semifinals on May 19, the Blue Tide overcame a 12-point halftime deficit to defeat rival Secaucus, 14-12, on a pair of fourth quarter touchdowns. Then, on May 21, at Veterans Park in Edgewater, Harrison rallied back from an early deficit, then went on to defeat Leonia, 12-6, in overtime to capture its second NJIC championship in three years.
Harrison now waits for its opponent for the North Jersey tournament, which is set for June 5. The four-team format includes the NJIC champion as well as the yet to be determined SFC North, SFC South and Big Central conference champions.
“Those two playoff wins just kind of encapsulates what we pride ourselves on in Harrison,” Nankiv-
ell said. “It’s toughness, grit, and never giving it up until it’s over.”
If that mentality can be summed up in one player it would be quarterback Thalia Sosa. Sosa missed the last three games of the regular season due to a knee injury and remained sideline for the start of the semifinal against Secaucus.
It was only when down 12-0 to a Patriots team that eliminated the Blue Tide in the final a year ago, that Sosa entered the game.
The junior delivered the spark her team desperately seeked when she threw a pair of fourth quarter TD passes to Mya De Jesus.
In the final, Sosa threw a touchdown to freshman Adama Sowe to even the game at 6-all. In overtime, it was one of the state’s true breakout stars who delivered the game winner when junior Kasandra Rodriguez took an end-around for the winning touchdown.
The run was Rodriguez’s 11th touchdown of the season and while she’s had a fine year offensively, it’s on the defensive side of the ball where she has emerged as a true game-changing talent.
Rodriguez has an eye-popping 38 sacks, not a typo, to go with 30 tackles for loss and 85 total tackles as an edge rusher. Seven of those sacks have come in Harrison’s two
playoff games.
“I can’t believe it is an actual statistic,” said Nankivell about Rodriguez’s 38 sacks. “Every time we punch in the stats after the game, I have to quadruple check myself. Did she have 14 tackles today? Did she really have five sacks today? And she did. She’s all over the field.
“I can’t remember watching a season that’s been this explosive by a player on both sides of the ball. She is a game-changer. Kasie has shown up in such a big way and become this force.”
Lining up on the opposite side of Rodriguez as a rusher is junior Sarah Dasilva, who has seven sacks.
At linebacker is Harrison’s most high-profile player in De Jesus at linebacker, who was one of 32 players nationwide selected to play in the NFL FLAG Girls High School Showcase at the NFL Pro Bowl. De Jesus, who also plays for Jets Flag Elite, recently committed to play Division 1 flag football at Manhattan University.
With six interceptions, 12 passes defended and 58 tackles, De Jesus is truly capable of erasing a large part of the field for opposing pass offenses.
“Mya being on the field has
changed the game for everyone else,” Nankivell said. “We ask Mya to do things that most athletes might not be able to do. When you have a linebacker who can cover basically the entire middle of the field and respond to the run at the same time, that makes the life of everyone else out there so much easier.”
Sowe, who is destined for big things in both flag football and soccer, starts at the other linebacker position.
At the two cornerback positions are seniors Danna Gomez, who has three interceptions, and Hanna Medina, a Caldwell University commit for flag football.
At safety is Nada Bana, a junior who has been selected to Moroccan National Team’s extended roster. Bana will be working with them this summer in hopes of being a part of the country’s 2028 Summer Olympics team.
Junior Romina Sosa and freshman Anisa Mena have provided additional depth in the secondary, while juniors Gabriela Torres Celleri and Oriana Velasquez have made a presence as reserve rushers.
As a team, Harrison’s defense has allowed just 54 points in 12 games.
On offense, the Blue Tide has employed a strength in numbers, with many of their skill players playing in multiple positions.
As a team, Harrison has rushed for 2,046 yards, with Rodriguez (603 yards, 11 touchdowns) leading the balanced attack, along with De Jesus (560 yards, five touchdowns and Bana (441 yards, four touchdowns. Both Thalia Sosa and Gomez are running threats at the QB position.
Nankivell credits starting center Julia Soares as the “unsung hero,” of the Blue Tide offense, particularly in the running game.
Sowe, who Nankivell admits might be playing out of position at the moment as a tight end, leads the team in receiving with 268 yards and five touchdowns on 14 catches. De Jesus has added 16 catches for 204 yards and six touchdowns. Rodriguez, Bana and Medina have also caught TD passes this season.
Adding to Harrison’s depth on both sides of the ball are senior Samantha Mira, juniors Genesis Samayoa, Darla Cedillo, Maria Pires and Laila Harvey, sophomores Valentina Mejia Alzate and Julia Martins and freshmen Mariana Martiinez and Laryssa Da Rocha.
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Five set volleyball classics highlight the start of the state tournament
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
The decision by the NJSIAA to go to best of five sets for its state tournament games has been met with mixed approval statewide. One thing is for certain, for The Observer-area locals the change has created some incredibly dramatic finishes over the first two rounds.
First, in Wednesday’s first round of the North, Group 3 tournament, Belleville pulled off a wild 33-31, 23-25, 27-25, 24-26, 15-6 victory over Watchung Hills.
Two days later the quarterfinals produced two more five-set epics as Bloomfield upset Essex County champion Livingston, 21-25, 25-16, 17-25, 25-19, 18-16 in North, Group 4. Then, in perhaps the craziest of them all, local rivals Harrison and Lyndhurst squared off with the Blue Tide prevailing, 25-19, 21-25, 25-21, 20-25, 18-16, in a match that took more than two hours and left everyone both physically and emotionally drained.
“(When you go five sets), you don’t really know how it’s going to play out,” Harrison head coach Anthony Sabia said. “I could tell that physically we were tired, but mentally we were there. We were ready to go, even though maybe our bodies weren’t necessarily ready or willing. But we found a way.”
Harrison swept the season series with Lyndhurst, but the second matchup did not feature Golden Bears’ star outside hitter Jan Lesnicki due to injury, so Sabia expected a tight matchup the third time around.
Lesnicki, Lyndhurst’s all-time career leader in kills, showed why he is one of North Jersey’s top offensive players with 29 kills, three blocks and 23 digs. On the other side, Harrison’s Jonathan Petrillo nearly matched him with 22 kills, four blocks and 15 digs.
The two of them going back and forth, it was very highly competitive in the match, but it was in the spirit of the sport,” said Sabia, noting that the Harrison-Lyndhurst rivalry in volleyball is friendlier than in other sports. “It was fun to watch them.”
In the fifth and deciding set,
which is played to 15, Harrison led 14-11, but Lyndhurst staved off three potential match points to even it up at 14-all. The Blue Tide had additional match point opportunities at 15-14, and 16-15, but were again denied as an overpass landed in-between Petrillo and Gabriel Da Costa and just inside the line to tie it at 16.
Harrison finally put the upstart Bears away as Ryan Manini tipped a shot over for the kill that made it 17-16. Then, for match point, Da Costa, who hadn’t recorded a single kill all day, took advantage of a Lyndhurst overpass over the net and fired a shot off the Bears’ block and onto the floor for the clinching kill.
“When we won the match, it wasn’t excitement, it was just relief that this match (was over),”
Sabia said. “It was just two hours and 13 minutes of two teams just slugging it out with each other.
Manini and Pedro Quezada finished with nine kills apiece, while Anas Oufrid added 23 assists for fourth-seeded Harrison (17-9), which now plays top-seeded Passaic Charter in the semifinals on Tuesday.
For Lyndhurst (17-8), Filoteo Mosca had 12 kills with 21 digs and Maks Dmochowski dished out 41 assists to go with four kills, six blocks and 21 digs.
Bloomfield (12-17), the 10th seed in North, Group 4, will play third-seeded Passaic Tech in the semifinals. Belleville, after its five-set classic in the first round, saw its season end with a loss to
Bergen Catholic to finish the year 21-6. Kearny, North Arlington and Nutley all saw their seasons end in the first round on Wednesday. Meanwhile, in the state baseball tournament, Nutley has bounced back from a May swoon to win its first two North 1, Group 3 tournament games.
The Raiders needed some late-inning magic in the first round, defeating Cliffside Park, 2-1, in eight innings. Sean Feeley topped the 100 strikeout mark for the season after punching out 10 over seven innings before giving way to Kennan Bilotta, who pitched a scoreless eighth for the win. and both John Machtemes and Jowe Roque added a RBI.
There was far less drama in Friday’s home quarterfinal against Wayne Valley when Nutley’s offense erupted for 14 runs in a 14-3 mercy rule win.
Eugenio Roman, Chris Kovacs and Dominic Saladino had three RBI apiece with Saladino’s threerun home in the bottom of the fifth ending the game. Bilotta
picked up his second win of the state tournament after striking out three over five innings.
Nutley travels to second-seed Ramapo in the semifinals on Wednesday.
The Raiders are the last local baseball team standing as Lyndhurst lost a walkoff heartbreaker
to West Morris in the North 2, Group 2 quarterfinals on Friday. Two days earlier, Belleville, Kearny and North Arlington saw their seasons end in the first round.
The softball season ended for The Observer area on Thursday. Kearny’s Hudson County championship winning season ended when it was shutout, 4-0, by Bridgewater-Raritan in the North 2, Group 4 tournament to finish 22-2. Nutley, which at 18-10 had its most wins since 2022, saw its season end in the North 2, Group 3 quarterfinals with a loss to Cranford. Also falling in the quarterfinals was North Arlington, which at 14-9, enjoyed its best record since 2011. Belleville and Lyndhurst were defeated in the first round last Tuesday.
DISORDER
Factitious disorder is a serious mental health condition where a person deliberately pretends to be sick or causes symptoms in themselves without an apparent external reward. Individuals may fake pain, fevers, bleeding, or psychological symptoms to receive medical attention, care, and sympathy. Even though they know the symptoms aren’t real, they are often not seeking money or avoiding work; instead, their motivation is emotional, such as needing to feel cared for. People with this disorder frequently visit many doctors or hospitals, and their test results may not match their claims. Because symptoms mimic real illnesses, diagnosis requires ruling out actual medical conditions through tests and exams. Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and family support, rather than drugs. Because people with factitious disorder want to be in the sick role, they often aren’t willing to seek or accept treatment for the condition. But if approached in a way that doesn’t judge, people with factitious disorder may agree to have a mental health professional assess and treat them. 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. Factitious disorder is also referred to as Munchhausen syndrome.
any questions or comments to: premiercare@gmail.com
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
Gabriel Da Silva
Jonathan Petrillo
Photos courtesy of Milton Velez Photography
Local track stars qualify for NJSIAA Meet of Champion
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
The Observer-area will be seeing a host of newcomers at this year’s NJSIAA Outdoor Track Meet of Champions on Wednesday in Pennsauken. For seven of the eight athletes there, it will be their first time at Outdoor MOC. But for Nikalena Iacono it will be her second straight trip to the MOC and the latest achievement in a Track & Field career that ranks among the best of any girl in Lyndhurst history.
Iacono locked up her second consecutive MOC berth in the Shot Put when she threw a 38-6 to take second place in the Group 2 meet that was held at Northern Burlington High School in Columbus.
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“This is what she fought her
entire track career for,” Lyndhurst head coach Rich Tuero said. “One more shot to medal at the State Meet of Champions and one more shot to break the school record in the Shot Put. This is what it’s all about! She put herself in this position with her relentless hard work and dedication.”
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Iacono, who entered as the third seed, quickly put herself in position for a top two spot which comes with an automatic spot in the MOC. Her top throw proved to be more than 2.5 feet further than third.
“This was always the goal,” said Tuero. “She and I discussed - nothing guaranteed, it has to be earned. And she went out there and earned that spot.”
Iacono will now enter the Meet of Champions, hoping for her first medal and also to set a new school record in the Shot Put of 39-9.5.
Among the locals, no one will have bigger expectations than Bloomfield’s Jo’elle Urdanivia, who became the first Bengal in 18 years to win a group title when he claimed the Group 4 Boys crown in the Discus with a throw of 171-4.
Urdanivia, who missed most of his sophomore year due to an elbow injury that continued on into this past fall, is the 12th Bloomfield athlete overall to win a Group title.
“To win at the Group 4 level is extraordinary,” head coach Terry Iavarone said. “The offseason training and in-season dedication, coupled with being healthy, is necessary to achieve such a feat.”
With Urdanivia’s elbow still at less than 100-percent, the decision was made for him to dedicate all of his focus on the Discus, which is his better event and also less stressful on the elbow than the Shot Put, an event he had also qualified for.
In April, Urdanivia recorded the state’s top throw in the
Discus all season with an 182-0 at the Morris Hills Relays. He will enter Wednesday as the No. 2 seed in the event.
The expectation is to win the MOC, but nothing is guaranteed,” said Iavarone. “The pressure is definitely something to take into consideration. As a junior, Jo’elle can really make a statement. He already has throughout the state this year.”
Also heading to Pennsauken is Bloomfield’s 4x100 Meter Relay team of Carlos Vega, Marcel Rosario, Jeremy Tejada and Johnny Cobb. The quartet set a school record with a time of 42.87 in the finals, which was good for eighth place in Group 4. But there was no celebration after the record-setting performance as they had to wait and see if the time was good enough to qualify for one of the MOC’s 18 wild card spots.
“They knew if they could place top 10 at groups they would have a shot to wild card in,” said Iavarone. “The entire afternoon the boys kept checking MileSplit Live for results from the other meets around the state. Once they knew, it was back to business and preparing for MOC.”
Also qualifying for the MOC was Nutley’s Havana Alvarez in the Girls Long Jump and Marcus Durham in the Boys Triple Jump at the Group 3 Meet at Northern Burlington. It marks the first time since 2021 that the Raiders will be sending multiple qualifiers to MOC.
Alvarez, a sophomore, continued her breakout season when she placed fourth in the Long Jump with a jump of 18-0.5. It’s
the latest accomplishment in a month that saw her smash the school record in the event and also claim an Essex County title.
Havana had her big breakthrough at the beginning of May and has been riding that wave for a few weeks now,” head coach Gerald Ryan said. “She seemed to rise to the occasion once the championship meets started. She tied our school record (17-8.25) at the SEC American Division Championships meet and then hit her first 18 foot jump at the Essex County Championships. That is where she had the big breakthrough hitting 18-8. Hitting that jump made everyone notice by putting her in the top ten in the state in the event.”
Durham, a junior, has also enjoyed a dramatic upswing in May, improving upon his personal best , starting with a 43-5.5 at the Essex County Championship to a 44-3.75 two weeks ago at the North 2, Group 3 Championship. This weekend saw him jump a 44-10.25, which was good for sixth in the Group 3 Championships and a spot in the MOC.
“Last year Marcus began to find high level success in the triple jump and he has dedicated himself to getting better every day,” said Ryan. “He works hard, follows Coach (Rob) Porrino’s training program and the results speak for themselves. He has always had a very competitive attitude and never likes to lose. He knows how to compete and he is able to come through when it matters most. That fierce desire to improve his craft has driven him all season long.”
Left and center photo courtesy of Terry Iavarone, right photo courtesy Gerald Ryan
Harrison’s Hoop Shoot champion
The Harrison East Newark Elks Lodge No. 2326 Hoop Shoot Winner was Ryan Castillo, who went on to win the North Central District Hoop Shoot in Nutley. Seen here, from left, is Larry Kelly, recreation director; Hoop Shoot Director and Youth Activities Chairman Exalted Ruler Justine Saar; Past Exalted Ruler Larry Bennett and in the center is Castillo.
The Observer’s correction & clarification policy
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. 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.
Macular edema, or swelling of the macula, takes place when blood vessels leak into the macula, causing swelling, which, in turn, causes cloudy or blurry vision. The macula is the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Progressively worsening blurry vision and loss of central vision are the main signs of macular edema, but the condition is often the sign of another eye disease. The most common cause of macular edema is diabetic neuropathy that leads to “diabetic macular edema.” Eye diseases that cause macular edema are age-related macular degeneration, uveitis, retinas pigmentosa, and retinal vein occlusion. Eye surgery to treat a different eye condition and certain medications that treat eye conditions can also cause macular edema.
Your doctor will first listen to your symptoms and take a medical history, such as having diabetes or having recent eye surgery. Next, he or she will measure your visual acuity by having you cover one eye and reading letters on an eye chart. Doctors may also give you a test called an Amsler Grid to see if your vision is become not only blurred but distorted. To schedule an appointment, please call our office at 201-896-0096. Address: 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst; Optical shop: 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.
P.S. Treating or managing conditions that are causing macular edema can help relieve symptoms. Effective treatments are eye drops, injections, laser treatments, and a surgery called a vitrectomy.
www.delucavision.com
OBITUARIES
All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
Clotilde Dongo
Clotilde Dongo, 74, died on the morning of May 20, 2026.
She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend.
She was born on Jan. 18, 1952, in Peru to Rosa and Abraham Garcia. She grew up in Lima, Peru.
Clotilde was known for her kindness, sense of humor and love of trying new foods, going to the beach and spending time
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
Shaw-Buyus
Home for Services
Mario Teixeria, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757
Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048
Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations.
Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.
138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032 (201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com
WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME
Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916
You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.
Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657
with her loved ones. She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life — reading her Bible each day, which brought her comfort and strength, and caring for her beloved puppies, Chip and Gaia, who were her faithful companions.
Clotilde loved to dance, bringing energy and laughter to any gathering. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family and friends, whether sharing meals together, celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying each other’s company.
Her home was always filled with warmth, good food and the sound of loved ones gathering around her dining room table watching Spanish-language television. Her love, wisdom and generosity touched countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughter and son-inlaw, Patricia and David; grandchildren Isabel, Sofia, Jovan and Joshua; sisters, nieces and nephews; and cousins here and in Peru.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Rosa A. Garcia, who died March 21, 2013.
Michael Fulginiti
Michael Fulginiti died May 25, 2026.
He was 97.
Born in Italy, he moved to Kearny in 1955.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Entombment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Michael proudly served in the Italian military and was a retired welder from J. Supor in Harrison. He was a devoted father and grandfather who cherished spending time with his seven grandchildren. He loved cooking for his family, a gift he learned from his beloved wife, Nina, as well as singing, playing the lottery, all while bringing laughter and life wherever he went.
Husband of the late Marianna Voci, he is survived by his children Mary Ann Maltz, Sam (Judy) Fulginiti and Diane Biancamano and his nephew Joseph (Rita) Voci. Michael was the loving grandfather (pop pop) of Kimberly, Elise, Jacqueline (Frank), Steven, Anthony (Alyssa), Giuliana and the late Carissa. Brother of Antonio Fulginiti, Raffaela Grande, Rosetta Agresta, Carmella De Filippo and the late Vincenzo Fulginiti.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the American Heart Association.
Having trouble finding a new place to live? You are definitely not alone, but THE OBSERVER’S classifieds can help. Let prospective landlords know in a classified ad what you’re looking for in a new apartment and have them call you! Call us @ (201) 991-1600 to place your ad today!
Dorothy Coppola
Dorothy Coppola (nee Cebilski) died May 22, 2026. She was 86.
Born in Newark, she lived in North Arlington before moving to Kearny in 1969.
Private cremation was handled by the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Her ashes will be interred with her late husband at Arlington National Cemetery.
Dorothy was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed her membership at the Henrietta Benstead Senior Citizens Center in Kearny.
Wife of the late Gerald “Jim” as she called him and loving mother of Jerry J. (Annie) Coppola and Michael A. (Tina) Coppola, she was the last of six siblings and sister-in-law of Marianne “Sis” and Gary Greeley. Also surviving are her beloved grandchildren Adam, Michael, Julia, Hunter and Pierce.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association at donorservices.alz.org in her memory and to help others.
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Nutley opens all-inclusive park
The Nutley Township Department of Parks and Recreation cut a ribbon to open a newly installed inclusive playground at Father Glotzbach Park Wednesday, May 13.
The new playground is designed to remove barriers and obstacles so children of all abilities and needs may play together.
The space will not only promote physical education for all, but also empathy, community, compassion and understanding for all Nutley children.
“This is a park for everyone,” Commissioner Mauro Tucci, in his opening speech, said. “Here in Nutley, we leave no child behind. Special needs or otherwise.”
The playground was funded through Jake’s Law, a New Jersey initiative that fully funds inclusive playgrounds for children of all abilities. It was inspired by Jake Cummings-Nasto, a young boy from South Jersey, whose family advocated for accessible play spaces.
The funding comes primarily through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Green Acres program.
Municipalities, counties and townships apply for grants to build or renovate inclusive playgrounds that exceed standard ADA requirements.
“Our Parks Department, who are second to none, worked hard and did what we came here to do, from the top all the way down to the bottom of this park,” Tucci said.
“We’re doing whatever we can to take care of our people here in Nutley. We don’t just talk a good game and put up signs; we provide real-life options.”
The new Glotzbach Park playground includes wheelchair-accessible surfacing and ramps, sensory-friendly and quiet play areas, inclusive swings and equipment, shaded seating and fencing, accessible restrooms and parking
The playground is open and available to all Nutley residents.
BELLEVILLE 2 BR, LR, DR, EIK, Sunroom/ Office No Pets/Smoking $2100 + Utilities 1 month security (201)279-9018 04W03
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Plus BR’s, LR, DR, EIK 1 Bath $2300 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (908)652-6553 02W03
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KEARNY 3rd Floor 2
BR’s, LR, EIK 1.5 months security, Utilities separate,credit required No Pets/Smoking July 1st (201)998-0509 04W03
HARRISON 1st fl. 2
BR’s, $1,700 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate No smoking. No pets. Avl. June 15th. (201) 738-4099 02W03
HARRISON 1st floor 3
BR’s, LR, EIK No access to backyard (201)563-9115 (English) (201)407-0405 (espanol) 02W03
HARRISON 3RD Floor, 1 BR, EIK $1500 + 1 Months security Utilities included No Pets/ Smoking Available now (973)536-6559 04W03
HARRISON 2 bedroom, LR, EIK, New Bathroom. Good location $2000 + 1.5 months security, 1 year lease required. Utilities separate, no pets/ smoking (862)3601505 04W03
HARRISON 1st Floor
Large 3 BR’s, 1 Bath, Backyard, 1.5 months security, utilities separate, Near Schools and Transportation Available Now Call (201)9913366 or (201)889-2495 04W03
BR’s & 2 Full baths, LR, EIK $2500 + 1.5 Months security Utilities separate, Use of backyard w/barbecue, 2 car parking Close to Walmart, 15 minute walk to Path No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)628-5902 02W03
KEARNY 3rd floor
Newly renovated + Appliances, No Laundry service or use of backyard. 2 BR’s + Small office, LR, DR, EIK $2500 + 1.5 months security, Utilities Separate, Credit check, Renters Insurance, Signed lease No Pets/Smoking Available June 1st (201)283-4649 02W03
KEARNY 2nd floor. Large 2 BR’s + Computer room LR, DR, EIK & Pantry, Hardwood floors. Walk in Closet. $2350 + 1.5 months security. Utilities not included. No Pets/Smoking. By appointment only Avail Now (973) 309-5773 04W03
KEARNY 3rd Floor. 1 BR, EIK, $1,700 + 1.5 months security. Utilities not included. No pets/smoking. Avl. Now. By appointment only (973) 309-5773 04W03
KEARNY Spacious 2nd Floor, This newly renovated unit features 3 bedrooms, DR, LR, kitchen, Bath. $2350 + 1.5 Months security Utilities Separate No pets/smoking Available Now Please call/text: (201) 877-8829 04W03
KEARNY Newly renovated 3 BR Duplex, 1 Bath, EIK w/new appliances, Washer/Dryer Included $2350 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Access to backyard & storage, No Pets/Smoking Available NOW (201)465-4228 03W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 3
BR’s, 1 bath, LR, DR & Kitchen $2800 + 1 months security. Utilities separate Parking for 1 car, No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (973)868-3378 02W03
KEARNY 1 bedroom apartment, on second floor, located on Kearny Avenue. Convenient location. Freshly painted, large rooms. $1750.00 with heat supplied . One month security required. Single or couple preferred. No pets, no smoking . Call 201-997-2341 between 10:00 am to 7:00 pm only 04W03
KEARNY /Arlington
Section 2nd Floor, 2 BR, LR, Kitchen, 1 Bath. Hardwood floors throughout. w/d hookup. $1,850 separate utilities. security deposit. no pets. Avl. July 1st. (201) 725-1212 04W03
KEARNY 3 BR’s, $2150 + 1.5 months security Utilities Separate, No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)7729965 04W03
KEARNY 2nd floor, 3 BR’s, EIK, LR, $2500 + 1.5 months security, Utilities not included, Laundry hook-up Available Now (201)7251043 04W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2
BR’s, LR, EIK $1950 + 1 months security Utilities separate, Includes 1 Parking space. Access to Laundry No Pets/ Smoking, Available Now (201)726-8516 04W03
N.ARLINGTON Newly renovated 2nd floor. 2 BR, LR, EIK. $1800 +1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets. Available Now (201)997-1222 or (201)290-4861 02W03
N.ARLINGTON Studio $1350 + 1.5 Months security. Utilities included. No Pets/No Smoking. 1 person only. Available Now (201)428-8815 Leave text message 02W03
N.ARLINGTON 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, LR, DR, Porch and Storage area. Hardwood floors,Washer and Dryer. No Pets/ Smoking. $2900 + 1.5 mth security. Utilities Separate Available July 1st (201)889-4047 04W03
N.NEWARK Quite Neighborhood 1st floor 2 BR, LR, DR, EIK Sunroom $2200 + 1.5 months security Heat included Close to Schools/ Transportation No Pets/ smoking Available Now (973)202-6092 04W03
BELLEVILLE 1 or 2 people Everything included. Private Bath. Shared Kitchen. Laundry room Available now. Please Call (973)5366559 04W03
KEARNY Large room with closet, tobacco smoking allowed only, $910 + 1 month security, utilities not included, Shared bathroom and kitchen. Open foyer space and front porch. Near NYC transportation. Month to month sublease. Female preferred. Must be employed and show proof of employment. Available June 1st Call or text Jennifer 201-283-2325 02W03
NORTH ARLINGTON 14 Hedden Terrace June 6 & 7 (Sat& Sun) 9AM-6PM Rain dates: June 13 & 14 Costume Jewelry & Accessories 04W01
NUTLEY 1st floor 1 BR, Bath, Kitchen, LR, Storage unit, 1 Parking space $2453 + 1 months security Utilities Separate No Smoking Available Now (201)667-6722 04W03
NEWARK 1 room for rent $1000 + 1 months security, Utilities included, Shared Kitchen, Bath & Living room. In unit laundry No Smoking Available now Text or Call (973)855-9077
02W03
Liquor Store and Mini Market with more than 30 years in Kearny NJ $340,000 plus inventory. Open to negotiate and finance Owners are relocating out of State (862)202-5765 04W03
LEGAL NOTICES
(201) 991-1600
3.General Legal
The Requests for Proposals can be obtained via email to jromano@ harrisonhousing.com or from the Housing Authority’s website, www. harrisonhousing.com.
An original and one (1) copy of the proposal must be submitted in a sealed package to the Housing Authority. The package must be clearly marked with the words “Proposal for _____ Services” and include the respondent’s company name and return address. Respondents must ensure that their proposal is received at the address and by the deadline specified above. Proposals received after the deadline for any reason shall not be considered and will be returned to the sender. All responses submitted are subject to these instructions and to the Instructions to Offerors, Non-Construction form HUD-5369-B. The failure to abide by these instructions in any way, including but not limited to the failure to submit all required documentation, may lead to the proposal being rejected as non-responsive.
The Housing Authority reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and/or to waive any informality in the responses. No proposals may be withdrawn within sixty (60) days after the submission deadline.
In accordance with the criteria included in the applicable RFP, each contract shall be awarded to the respondent who submits the proposal most advantageous to the Housing Authority, cost and other factors considered. Successful respondents will be required to execute the Housing Authority’s contract within seven (7) days of receiving a notice of award.
These RFPs are being issued pursuant to a fair and open process in accordance with N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4
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Building Subcode Official / Building Inspector
Under direction of the Construction Official, has the subordinate administrative responsibility for administering the Building Subcode of the NJ State Uniform Construction Code, and inspects all buildings and construction projects to ensure that compliance with plans and specifications is achieved; does other related duties as needed. Applicants must possess a valid license as an HHS Building Subcode Official issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, wwwas well as a valid NJ driver’s license. Full job description can be found at https://info.csc.state. nj.us/jobspec/05048.htm Starting Salary $87,394.
Full-time position, 35 hours per week, with full benefits package and PERS pension. Applications can be downloaded at https://www.kearnynj.org/ jobopportunities/Applications and resumes must be submitted to the Personnel Department at 410 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. The Town of Kearny is an equal opportunity employer
(Jersey City, NJ): Analyze architectural blueprints, techn’l drawings & project specs to prep cost estimates for labor, materials & eqpmt. Review subcontractor & vendor bids, conduct cost analysis. Perform cost-rltd risk assessments considering site conditions, labor availability & mkt fluctuations. Reqd: Master in Civil Engg or Construction Mgmt & 2 yrs of exp. in construction cost estimation for commercial & residential projects. Proficiency w/ Sage, Procore & Bluebeam. Mail resume to PS Elite Construction, 28 Cottage St, Jersey City, NJ 07306. 04W01
Supply Systems Analyst JC Food System Inc in Newark, NJ. Req’d: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Salary $80,600.00 Resume to: JC Food System Inc., 722 Frelinghuysen Ave, Newark, NJ 07114. Reference#: 652843 04W01
Service Delivery Manager
We are seeking a dependable property manager assistant to support daily property operations. Responsibilities include scheduling maintenance, handling administrative tasks, maintaining organized records. Strong communication and good writing skills. Hours 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, in Nutley. Must be friendly. Text 973-420-1235 or via email - TB@patricianassoc.com 03W03
L&R Manufacturing in Kearny seeks a dependable full-time employee for our Shipping and Receiving Department. Fluency in English & prior shipping experience are required. The position offers a 40-hour workweek, Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Benefits include two weeks of vacation after one year, a company-contributed 401(k), healthcare coverage, and paid life insurance. Starting salary ranges from $17 per hour, depending on experience. Applications are available at 577 Elm Street & 57 John HaKearny, or can be requested via email at ibarutis@LRultrasonics.com or by fax at 201-622-1805 03W03
Headquartered in Newark, NJ. Telecommute Position. Operate & support data center infrastructure. Monitor uptime SLAs & KPIs to ensure reliable delivery of svcs for Sales offices, HQ & 24x7 Mfg factories. $125.60/hr. Medical/dental/vision, 401K; vacation, paid holidays & annual bonus. Bachelor’s deg in Comp Sci, Comp Info Systms, or a rltd field of study followed by 6 yrs of progressive exp in the specialty field OR IN THE ALTERNATIVE, THE EMPLOYER IS WILLING TO ACCEPT 8 yrs of relevant employment exp. Mail resumes to: Panasonic Corporation of North America, Attn: A. Bell (PS), Two Riverfront Plaza, Newark, NJ 07102. 04W01
Cloud Security Manager
HQ’ed in Newark, NJ. Telecommute Position. Primary contact for all security rltd aspects to safeguard Cloud environments. Resp for leading the dsgn, implmtn, & mgmt of secure cloud infrastructure & svcs across organization. $83.09/hr. Medical/dental/vision, 401K; vacation, paid holidays & annual bonus. Bachelor’s deg in Comp Sci, Computer Networking, or a rltd field of study followed by 6 yrs of progressive experience in the specialty field. Mail resumes to: Panasonic Corporation of North America, Attn: A. Bell (AJ), Two Riverfront Plaza, Newark, NJ 07102. 04W01
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Beach Boys tribute band rocked State Theater
By JoAnn Barton Special to The Observer
hat a way to kick off the summer with The Beach Boys on May 30, 2026 at the State Theater in New Brunswick. Unfortunately, the weather was a bit chilly, at 65º. Although the official first day of summer is a few weeks off, most associate May with the start of summer, and 65º in a May evening is a little bit chilly to
BirthdHappyay
BOBBY! We couldn’t do it without you!
Love, Lisa, Kevin, Kimmie, Michelle & all of us at
The theater itself was very comfortable. I was happy to catch the show there. It is a step back in time visually with the best amenities and sound stage. I love the intimacy of the State and all small theaters. There is never a bad seat in
I have always enjoyed the music and family ties of The Beach Boys. Dennis Wilson (drummer) was always my favorite member of the band and of course, Brian Willson. Without Brian, The Beach Boys would just be a harmonizing band about surfing and possibly may have never existed. Sadly, none of the Wilson Brothers are with us today.
sensation Steve Moore. He is also known as the Mad Drummer. He is also labeled “the drummer at the wrong gig” for the 60s, 70s and 80s cover band, Rick K and the All Nighters. If you need to know what I am referring to and can’t get to see the Beach Boys, look up Moore, the drummer at the wrong gig, and you will know exactly what I mean. He’s a drummer to recon with.
The remaining members are Al Jardine (childhood friend), not currently touring with them, but still performing elsewhere. Bruce Johnston joined the band in 1965 to cover Brian Wilson on the road and Cousin Mike Love (singer, songwriter, musician) were also members.
Love sang lead vocals on some of the biggest hits for the Boys: “Surfin USA,” “California Girls” and “Good Vibrations.” It is only fitting that one of the founding members of the band, Love, would be the lead singer at the State Theater. Johnston didn’t join this tour.
The touring members were excellent musicians and vocalists. There were many songs where they had to overdub Love’s vocals. They didn’t overwhelm Love’s vocals but they filled in when Love’s vocals would break/crack and they would help make the songs’ lead vocals complete.
Two members of the band particularly stood out and made an impression on me. The first one, Brian Eichenberger, is not only is a singer (singing Brian’s parts), playing rhythm guitar, but he is also the musical director. Not an easy feat. He is extremely talented. I really enjoyed his performance. There is only one Brian Wilson and no one will ever replace him. However, Eichenberger’s performance honored the original tracks, Brian’s soaring vocal register with his falsetto, all while bringing so much of his own power and emotion to the stage. Maybe it’s the name Brian.
The other musician who stood out to me was the drummer Jon Bolton.
He had a special je ne sais quoi in his drumming. His playing reminded me of YouTube
Bolton had similarities in his performance to “the mad drummer.” He had ridiculous stick tricks, looking as if he was going to slam down on the drums and then suddenly stop to hit them lightly and remain playing a straightforward beat and fills on all the of the songs. He was a man having a great time at work. Love, now 85, struggled a bit with the vocals but he had a fantastic touring band of musicians and singers who could fill in where needed. The harmonies of the band were top tier as well. I didn’t appreciate that I couldn’t see Love’s face. He wore a black baseball hat pulled to cover his eyes and you could barely see his mouth when he sang. I felt his face was masked to avoid seeing what was happening when he was singing. His lack of movement is understandable at his age, only pointing out to the audience occasionally.
Did I enjoy the show? Yes. Do I recommend seeing it if it comes to your area? Yes. The nostalgia of it all with vivid videos from the 60s and up in the background when the songs were playing put a little extra touch on the performance. I just wish I had seen the entire family of The Beach Boys before their octogenarian status set in and the entire group of the brothers were together.
The set list included everything you would expect it to be, a career spanning evening of hits, good times and “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “God Only Knows,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and “Darlin’” were and have always been my favorites but all their surfing and summer hits can be heard on this tour as well.
If there is ever a phenomenal tribute band needed of the Beach Boys, Love’s touring band from this show, would be the ones to take the lead and keep The Beach Boys’ music alive.
Love
-Rami Alrabaa
