n Jersey City native’s career spanned decades; he covered countless county athletes & teams
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Late Observer sports reporter and Kearny man James F.
“Jim” Hague is one of 16 who will be inducted into the 2026 Hudson County Sports Hall of Fame later this year.
Hudson County Executive Craig Guy announced the inductees, honoring a class of athletes and coaches whose achievements span generations and multiple sports, including football, soccer, basketball, softball, cross country, track and field, wrestling and baseball.
He was proud of his Jersey City roots, including places like St. Paul’s Greenville and St. Peter’s Prep. After his Prep graduation in 1979, he went on to study journalism at Marquette University in Milwaukee, before returning to Hudson County. But he also treasured his adopted Kearny home.
The 2026 inductees also include:
n Ernie Beler – Bayonne
n Gary Danback – Bayonne
n Lisa M. Rovatsos – Bayonne
n Wayne Zitt – Guttenberg
n Ralph Eusebio – Hoboken
n Kimberly Hudock – Hoboken
n Alberico De Pierro – Jersey City
n Shelton Gibbs – Jersey City
This year’s class includes four women, recognizing outstanding female athletes and coaches whose contributions helped shape the competitive landscape across Hudson County high schools, collegiate, and post-collegiate sports programs.
“Hudson County has a proud and deeply rooted sports tradition, and this year’s Hall of Fame class reflects the very best of it,” Guy said. “These 16 inductees, athletes and coaches alike, exemplify dedication, perseverance and excellence. They not only achieved greatness in their respective sports, but they also
inspired generations of young athletes across our communities.”
The 27th Annual Hudson County Sports Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony at Saint Peter’s University Duncan Family Sky Room on the 6th floor of the McMahon Student Center, 47 Glenwood Ave., Jersey City, is set for Thursday, Oct. 8.
Hague began his sports-writing career with the Hudson Dispatch.
He covered many professional sports, but was most noted for knowing almost every athlete to ever put on a uniform in Hudson County and other towns he covered.
He came to The Observer in 2002 and retired a year before his untimely death June 11, 2023, aged 62. He left behind his wife, Hudson County Superior Court Judge Mary Costello.
n Robert Hampton (Elnardo Webster Award Recipient) – Jersey City
n Leigh Ann Murduca – Jersey City
n Doris Nicholson – Jersey City
n Lawrence R. Schiner – Jersey City
n Czar Wiley – North Bergen
n Eugene Napoleon – West New York
n 1966 West New York American Little League – West NY
File photo
Late Observer Sports Writer Jim Hague was a diehard Rams fan. He’s seen here in 2021 at MetLife Stadium watching his beloved team play the New York Giants.
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 eight-grades. Applications 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.
UNICO sponsoring movie night
Kearny UNICO sponsors a movie night, “ Nonnas, ” May 28 at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 314 Belgrove Drive. Tickets are $15 per person. RSVP to Joe Sorbera at sorbera2@gmail.com.
Troop 305 tricky tray rescheduled Boy Scout Troop 305, St. Stephen ’ s, Kearny, hosts a ’ 70s tricky tray June 13, from 6:30 p.m. at Hedges Hall, Kearny. This was originally scheduled for April. The cost is $45 and includes
NEWS BRIEFS
a catered dinner, ’ 70s music, prizes and a 50/50 raffle. Entry includes a sheet of tickets. Purchase $45 tickets by visiting unit305trickytray2026. eventbrite.com. Anyone who wishes to donate prizes may do so by first sending a note by email to friendsof305@gmail.com . Visit www.kearnyscouts.com for more information.
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.
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 first is an Earth Wind and Fire cover band May 28.
Then, it ’ s We May Be Right, a Billy
Joel cover band June 28. Next, it ’ s an 80s Revolution show July 28.
And lastly, a local artists night Aug. 28
All events kick off at 7 p.m. Bring chairs, blankets and snacks.
Belleville community bike ride upcoming
The Belleville Police Department hosts its sixth annual community bike ride Saturday, May 30, 2026 at School No. 7, 20 Passaic Ave., at 1 p.m. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. The 3.6mile community ride is a leisure family friendly one throughout the Belleville that will be escorted by the Belleville PD. This is a great opportunity to meet and interact with officers, neighbors and friends. There is no cost.
Belleville Woman’s Club hosting Fish & Chips day dinner and fundraiser
The Woman ’ s Club of Belleville hosts a National Fish & Chip Day celebration, Friday, June 5, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Belleville Senior Center,
125 Franklin Ave., Belleville. Dinner comes with fried fish, French fries, coleslaw and a drink. Chicken may be substituted for fish. Tickets are $25. Make checks payable to “ Woman’s Club of Belleville. ” F or more information or tickets , call Patty at (201) 3033377 or send an email to bellevillewomansclub@gmail.com.
Kearny PBA and Education Association raising cash for youth World Cup 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 eighth-grades. 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.
DEMOCRACY DIES IN THE DARK
On June Second, you have extremely important choices to make about the future of democracy in West Hudson. For thirty years you have trusted in my good judgment and integrity electing me ten times to be your Hudson County Freeholder/ Commissioner. I ask that you trust me one more time. You are being asked to select my successor as County Commissioner. To me, there’s only one candidate that makes sense, LARRY BENNETT. While the other candidates bring ZERO experience as an elected official, Larry has been a Councilman for over twenty years. Although Larry is a Harrison resident, there are few in West Hudson who do not know him. Through his elected office and his work with local fraternal organizations, Larry has assisted countless West Hudson residents over the years. His opponents can NEVER boast of such empathy. Larry will be there for you!
In Kearny, we are faced with a clear choice. We can elect the mayor’s so-called “UNITY TEAM,” OR we can elect people who will challenge every questionable act of the mayor. We can elect those who will simply be the mayor’s “YES MEN” bowing to her dictates OR we can elect a slate of candidates that will listen to YOU and exercise independent judgment questioning the leader. Democracy should respect and consider DISSENT. DISSENT allows open and honest dialogue. By electing the so-called “UNITY TEAM,” you will permit the mayor to silence and cancel the voices of those who, God forbid, dare oppose her. The mayor cannot tolerate DISSENT! As stated above “Democracy Dies in the Dark.” To illustrate the need for DISSENT, did you hear that the Town faces a budget deficit in EXCESS OF TEN MILLION DOLLARS? (Did TEAM UNITY tell you about this when they knocked on your door? I didn’t think so.) When several of our current Councilpersons confronted the mayor as to how she plans to fix the failure to balance the budget, what was her response... She removed these dissenters from the Council Budget Committee. That tells you all you need to know about what you can expect from “TEAM UNITY.” On June 2nd, send a message to the Mayor and her so-called “Team Unity.” Let’s allow OPEN AND HONEST DISCUSSION TO TAKE PLACE!
AL CIFELLI
Marking 60 years since the death of Kearny Cpl. Thomas F. Hornby, USMC
By Ron Woods Special to The Observer
This Memorial Day marked 60 years of remembrance for Cpl. Thomas F. Hornby, USMC, of Kearny, who was killed in action on March 18, 1966, in Vietnam. Cpl. Hornby was the first of nine servicemen from the Town of Kearny, either natives or former residents, to give their lives in Vietnam. A tenth casualty, Lt. Vincent R. Capodanno, USN, was a Marine chaplain and the brother of a Kearny resident who often visited the town.
Outside the two career military veterans (Lt. Col. John A. Dowd, USMC and SFC Thomas H. Welsh, USA), Cpl. Hornby was the only local serviceman to have left a widow. Just as tragic, Hornby had been married for only seven months, had been approaching the end of his Marine service tour, was just 21 and had been deployed to Vietnam for just one week when he sadly lost his life.
Few from Kearny likely realize, but over the 60 years since his death, Hornby’s widow, Mrs. Susanne (Baker) Hornby Austin of Sparta, has faithfully visited and maintained his grave at least annually, usually around Easter or Memorial Day, at the historic First Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Succasunna.
This is where the couple had married just seven months before his death. At 82 now, Sue has diligently sustained that annual vigil despite remarrying and raising her own family after her initial union with Tom was tragically cut short.
Over the years, Sue carefully preserved her photos with Tom, their wedding album, the flag she was given at his military funeral and his cherished Purple
Heart medal.
Named after his grandfather who was born in England, lived in Kearny for 44 years and retired as an assistant foreman at the former Federal Shipyards in Kearny at the close of World War II, Hornby was born Nov. 11 (Veterans Day), 1944, in Kearny.
The son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Hornby, of 126 Argyle Place, he joined older siblings Louis and Dorothy. Tom was an avid athlete at Kearny High School (KHS), both running track and playing football, earning varsity letters in the latter for both his junior and senior seasons. His nickname at KHS was “Bull” and he graduated with the Class of 1962.
After his KHS graduation, Tom took his first job at the First National Bank of Kearny. However, motivated by a speech given by President John Fitzgerald Kennedy during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Tom left the bank and enlisted in the Marine Corps, reporting for basic training in November 1962.
His Marine assignments took him to Washington, D.C., Camp LeJeune, North Carolina, and Quantico, Virginia.
While stationed at Quantico, he attended a friend’s wedding in New Jersey one weekend, where he met Susanne Baker of Chester. The couple fell in love, began dating and made plans for marriage, which was initially opposed by their families given Tom’s pending combat deployment to Vietnam, though it would have concluded his military-service obligation.
However, the couple proceeded with their wedding plans, marrying Aug. 25, 1965, during his Marine furlough and then happily settled in Netcong. This was an exciting time
for the couple as Tom and his brother, Louis, had made plans to open Lou and Tom’s Riverview Tavern in Fairfield, New Jersey, for which Tom had sold his prized silver corvette for the required investment, picking up a second-hand Volkswagen bug in its place for his weekend transit between Netcong and Quantico.
Tom spent his weekends in New Jersey with Sue and both looked forward to the broth-
ers’ new business, which Tom would join in November 1966 upon his discharge from the Marine Corps.
As Sue recalled, Tom was a loving, trustworthy and attentive husband, with many cherished friendships. He also truly loved his time in the Marine Corps.
Tom’s Marine unit (F Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division) arrived in Vietnam March 11, 1966. This
was during a rapid expansion of Marine forces in Vietnam to allow larger, more aggressive offensive operations against enemy forces. On March 18, just seven days after his arrival, and during one of Tom’s first combat missions near Danang, Company F became engaged in an elevated firefight with Viet Cong forces and were subjected to concentrated mortar fire.
See HORNBY, Page 4
HORNBY
Continued from Page 3
Sometime during that engagement, Tom was killed in action by fragmentation wounds.
Upon his death, both Sue in Netcong and Tom’s parents in Kearny received casualty-notification visits from Marine representatives. Tom’s painful loss, the town’s first, brought the Vietnam War into sharp focus for Kearny, given his youth and widespread popularity.
Many were devastated, particularly his Kearny High School classmates. Sue heartbreakingly made plans for his burial at the cemetery of her church in Succasunna, the same church at which they had walked down the aisle just seven months earlier.
Tom was buried at the rear of that highly historic cemetery, where both Revolutionary War and Civil War soldiers also lay.
In a twist of fate after Tom’s death, Sue met Robert (Bob) Austin, a KHS classmate of Tom’s
who also served as a Marine during the same span, successfully completing his Vietnam combat tour before his discharge. Ironically, Bob was the last friend from Kearny to see Tom alive as the two Marines had overlapping assignments during advanced combat training and final staging at Camp Pendleton,
California, before transit to Vietnam. By the time Bob landed in Vietnam a few weeks later, Tom had already been killed.
Bob and Sue were married after his Marine service and return to the United States, raising two children and spending 56 happy years together before his unfortunate death in 2024 from
the effects of Agent Orange. This Memorial Day, when you reflect on the service and sacrifice of local veterans who gave all for our nation’s freedom, take a moment to ponder the devotion and loyalty demonstrated by Susanne (Baker) Hornby Austin. Although their time together was tragically cut short, her steadfast
efforts spanning six decades now have been an unconditional labor of love in honoring and remembering her first husband and one of Kearny’s true heroes.
In that light, may God bless Sue for her unfaltering dedication in helping preserve the memory of Cpl. Thomas F. Hornby, USMC, of Kearny.
ONE TEAM. ONE KEARNY. PEOPLE FIRST.
Election Day is Tuesday, June, 2 and we are humbly asking for your suppor t for Town Council We believe that our government should work together, not against each other. We want to be par t of the solution in the decisions that affect our Town, not par t of the division. You have our word, we will be your voice and we answer only to you, our neighbors As experienced community leaders and public ser vants, we are ready to tackle the issues most impor tant to you: affordability, fully funding emergency ser vices, suppor ting seniors and veterans, and expanding recreation programs for ever yone. Together, we are one team and one Kearny. Thank you for your suppor t and let’s continue to push Kearny for ward.
Address parking concerns
Review municipal f inances and spending
Invest in streets and inf rastructure
Approach budgeting with a business mindset
Expand senior services
Engage in a transparent budgeting process
Fully fund emergency services
Support veterans, seniors, and small businesses
Engage with civic groups and embrace the diversity of our community
Identify grant funding sources to increase and expand recreation programs
Create new arts and recreation opportunities for everyone
Review the municipal budget to cut costs and lessen the burden on taxpayers
Invest in transportation
Fight for an affordable Hudson County
Advocate for West Hudson families and the services most important to them
ELECTION DAY IS JUNE 2 . POLLS ARE OPEN 6 A .M. TO 8 P.M.
EARLY VOTING IS MAY 26-31 AT TOWN HALL , THIRD FLOOR
PROUDLY ENDORSED BY MAYOR DOYLE . LEARN MORE AT KEARNYDEMS .ORG
BALCAZAR HUANCAYA MI
SPORTS & HEALTH
VIKINGS RISE UP
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
When North Arlington boys volleyball coach
Genevieve Dwyer thinks about her team’s upcoming state tournament game, she can’t help, but think about where this program has come from.
Just three years ago, Dwyer and her assistant, legendary Rutherford girls volleyball coach Helen Antzoulides, and the Vikings had just completed their inaugural season, one which saw North Arlington struggle its way to a 1-19. Now, with Dwyer in her fourth season and then-freshmen Andre Rincon and Jordan Nogueras now as senior captains, the Vikings are 16-6 and about to play their first ever home state playoff game on Wednesday when it hosts Jefferson.
“It’s been truly an amazing
experience to watch it built,”
said Dwyer, who played at North Arlington and is also the girls head coach in the fall. “In the beginning, we went 1-19, you see the players feel defeated and you almost feel defeated yourself. But to have them come back year after year and push themselves to be the greatest they can be.
“It’s an experience like no other. I would not trade it for the world. There’s nothing more rewarding than to watch something be built from the ground level to where we are.”
North Arlington has achieved this success thanks to a heavy emphasis on offensive balance and position versatility. No one fits that description more than Rincon. The 6-foot-1 senior splits his time between opposite hitter and setter, and has thrived in both spots with 69 kills, 165 assists and 117 digs.
Jackson Dorsett, a junior, is
the other setter, who is the more prototypical high school setter. He has 231 assists and 109 digs.
“I think both of our setters bring in different points of view,” Dwyer said. “Andre is an opposite and setter combination, so he does see things as a hitter. Jackson has that more setter, straightforward approach. They both read the court very differently and read the hitters differently. I think it’s good because they’re able to see different points of view and work with each other as a team.”
At outside hitter is Emanuel Cardona, a 6-foot-3 junior, who has emerged as the Vikings leading hitter with 140 kills to go with 142 digs and a team-high 23 aces.
“He’s really coming to his own.,” Dwyer said. “He’s strong enough to just put the ball away whenever, but he’s also smart enough where he knows where there’s open spots. He’s so ver-
satile and he’s just reading the court constantly.”
Shane Crudele, a 5-foot-9 junior, better known for his play on the football field, has 110 kills and 117 digs at the other outside hitter position. Another junior, Taylor Adragna is at opposite when Rincon is at setter and, in limited action, has 66 kills and 18 blocks. Pablo Scala, a senior, brings additional depth on the outside.
The 6-foot-0 Nogueras is a three-year starter in the middle, but has also seen extensive time on the outside and in the back row, allowing him to produce 67 kills, 25 blocks and 147 digs. North Arlington’s attack has added a whole new dimension this season with the development of junior Aidan Rafferty as the other starting middle. The 6-foot-3 Rafferty is in just his second year of any organized volleyball and first on the varsity level, has a team-best 26 blocks to go with 32
Photo by Genevieve Dwyer
kills himself.
North Arlington does not employ a libero, but Dwyer feels they have a true anchor defensively on the back line with junior defensive specialist Lorenzo Soto.
While this is the third year in a row qualifying for the state tournament, this year was the first time the Vikings earned a top eight seed and a home playoff game. North Arlington will be the seventh seed and will host 10th-seeded Jefferson in the first round of the North Jersey, Group 1 tournament. The winner will face the winner of Hoboken and Vernon in the quarterfinals on Friday.
“It feels like it hasn’t fully hit me yet,” said Dwyer. “There’s so many times this season where I’ve been in shock at just how far we’ve taken this program and how much the boys have grown. It’s almost unbelievable.”
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
North Arlington softball enters state playoffs with momentum
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
When the North Arlington softball team went through an up and down April, there was always a strong belief that this veteran group would come together and go on a run.
At 13-8, the Vikings have done just that and with the state tournament starting this week, the timing couldn’t be any better.
North Arlington heads into its NJSIAA North 2, Group 1 first round game at West Caldwell Tech having won six of its last eight games.
“We’ve definitely been working hard and working well as a group,” said head coach Emma Stagg. “We were definitely so-so to start and we had a bunch of conversations about how we’re
going to get there. It’s just going to take us a little bit longer than everybody else.
“I think we’ve gotten into our routine, we know what to do. We’ve kind of settled down from the whole early spring jitters that
Premier Car e TALK S
HEMANGIOMA
A hemangioma is a benign or non cancerous growth of extra blood vessels that usually appears shortly after birth, typically peaking by around five months of age. They slowly shrink and fade, often disappearing by age nine. Their color and texture depend on depth: surface hemangiomas look bright red and raised, while deeper ones can appear bluish and soft. Most don’t cause problems and only need to be watched. However, treatment may be recommended if a hemangioma is large, bleeds, causes ulcers, or affects vision or breathing. A common treatment is a beta-blocker, which helps shrink the growth. Other options include topical medica-
tion, laser therapy, or surgery when needed. With proper care, most hemangiomas have a very good outcome.
If your child has a hemangioma and you have questions about how it might affect them, your child’s pediatrician can offer insight and guidance about what you can and should do to help your child. 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. Infantile hemangiomas, often called “strawberry marks,” affect about four to five percent of babies and grow quickly in the first few months.
we had in the middle of April and gotten to where we need to be.”
The biggest reason for the turnaround has been a dynamic and deep offense that has averaged nearly eight and a half runs per game during this eight game stretch.
It’s a lineup that has been anchored by one of the NJIC’s best one-two duos at the top with pitcher/first baseman Cadence
Mansfield leading off, followed by centerfielder/catcher Isabella Buccheri hitting second. Mansfield, a junior, is hitting .514 with 23 runs scored and 18 stolen bases. As impressive as those numbers are, they pale in comparison to Buccheri, who has emerged as one of Bergen County’s premier hitters. Buccheri, a junior, is batting an incredible .658 on the season with 48 hits,
18 extra-base hits, four homers, 35 RBI, 33 runs and 26 stolen bases.
“She’s been hot all season and just the way she sees the ball is just so much improved,” Stagg said about Buccheri, who got her 100th career hit on May 15.
“She’s improved and grown as a player and a kid the last three years. Her approach is drastically different and it truly shows in her numbers.”
The lineup is further bolstered with a veteran infield that features three four-year varsity players in Jacklyn Burbach, Lyndsay Gilbert and McKenzie Stone.
Burbach, who shares the first base and pitching responsibilities with Mansfield, is hitting .333 with a team-best 17 walks, 22 RBI and 10 stolen bases. Gilbert, a third baseman, is hitting .301 with 14 runs, 13 RBI and stolen
Photo courtesy of Marissa Bunnell
Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
Paisley FC begins new season in USL-W
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
When Paisley Athletic FC first joined USL-W, Head Coach and Sporting Director Michael Sylvia had a goal of eventually being able to have the infrastructure in place for aspiring young girls soccer players to be able to play and train with Paisley from the youngest levels all the way through to the professional level.
As another USL-W season is about to begin, those dreams are starting to become a reality. In addition to its top team, Paisley, for the first time, has a full academy team that will also be playing in the USL-A this summer.
“It’s something we wanted to do for a few years. We just didn’t necessarily have the resources or hadn’t got the word out enough about what we were doing with Paisley and the first team,” said Sylvia. “Academy is
that bridge between our youth academy and our USL-W first team.”
This summer’s first team roster offers a glimpse of what Sylvia and Paisley hopes is a sign of things to come as Tommi Rose Valente, a Kearny native and product of the famed Thistle program, is set to be one of Paisley’s standouts on the midfield.
Valente played her high school soccer at DePaul, where she was a High School All-American and a NJ.com First Team, All-State selection after scoring 28 goals last fall. She will be continuing her career at Rutgers University.
“It’s so cool to see. Tommi started with us at our grassroots level and then because she’s such a gifted athlete, her
journey has taken her all around to many different teams,” Sylvia said. “We’re just so fortunate that we have the opportunity to provide the opportunities that suit a player like Tommi needs to get herself to the next
See PAISLEY FC, Page 9
Photos courtesy of Paisley Athletic FC
SOFTBALL
Continued from Page 7
bases. Stone, a shortstop, is hitting .284 with 19 RBI, 11 runs and 13 steals.
Rounding out the infield is sophomore Abigail Cubero, is having a breakout season, hitting .320 with 11 runs scored.
Another four-year senior is left fielder Skyler Crudele, who is hitting .385 with 11 walks, 17
PAISLEY FC
Continued from Page 8
level.”
Former Kearny star Olivia Covello, who is now at Sienna, and Arancha Antunes, who starred at North Arlington and plays at Manhattan, are also Kearny Thistle alums on the roster as is former Nutley standout Brooke Yero.
Valente is one of several former New Jersey high school stars, who are set to suit up for Paisley this summer. Headlining the group is Addison Halpern, who is back after being named USL-W Young Player of the Year. The former Gatorade High School Nation-
runs and 13 RBI. Crudele has been equally valuable defensively as she has started in all three outfield spots this season.
Right field has been shared between freshman Isabella Mannuzza (.294 average) and sophomore Lilliana Laboy (.276), while another sophomore, Emma Graci, is the primary designated player.
The result is a lineup that is without question the deepest Stagg has had in her three sea-
al Player of the Year while at Rutgers Prep, is set to begin her sophomore year at the University of Virginia.
Halpern’s former Rutgers Prep teammate and University of Alabama midfielder Melina Rebimbas, a Gatorade New Jersey Player of the Year, is also back for Paisley this season. Other notable top college
sons at North Arlington.
“It’s definitely a good problem to have (finding at-bats for all of them),” said Stagg. “I don’t like taking any of them out of the lineup because they can all put the bat on the ball, but it depends on who we’re playing and who is pitching, where everything else kind of falls into place.”
Freshman Paige Schlameuss is the starting catcher when Buccheri is in the outfield. Sophomore Sophia Graci and freshman
prospects who are back include Abby Droner, a Chatham native and sophomore forward at Georgetown, and her sister Paige, a senior midfielder at the University of Indiana. Ashley Deleo, who starred at Ramapo and will be starting her career at William & Mary in the fall and former Mount St. Dominic star Lena Tusche who will be
Elissa Malek have been used quite a bit as pinch-runners off a bench that includes sophomores Jenna Ramirez, Taylor Todechine and Keira Pfaff as well as freshmen Zoe Merchado, Sophia Villalobos, Julianna Mickeal and Isabella Mannuzza.
In the circle, Burbach (3.48 ERA with 99 strikeouts in 70.1 innings) and Mansfield (4.11 ERA with 64 strikeouts in 59.2 innings) have split the job and while both have struggled at
playing at Vanderbilt Paisley FC also welcomes back team captain Danielle Etienne, who played for Haiti in the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Kennedy Garcia, a Rancocas Valley graduate and member of the Puerto Rican National team, and Brielle Baker, a Rutgers Prep alum and goalie
times, the belief is that the reduced wear and tear on their arms will prove beneficial for the playoffs.
North Arlington, which earned the 10th seed in North 2, Group 1, will seek its first state tournament win since 2021 when it plays at seventh-seeded West Caldwell Tech on Tuesday, May 26. The winner will move on to face the winner of Brearley and University in the quarterfinals on Thursday.
at Louisville, are among the top newcomers.
Paisley FC, which plays its home games at Harvey Field, opens the season at home on May 31 against Manhattan Soccer Club, followed by home games on June 3, June 6 and June 8 to start the 10-game regular season that goes through the end of June.
THE MANY FORMS OF KERATOCONJUNCTIVITIS
Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea. Conjunctivitis (also known as pinkeye) is inflammation of the conjunctiva. When the two conditions occur together, it’s called keratoconjunctivitis. The condition can be unilateral or bilateral (in one or both eyes); hyperacute, acute, or chronic (lasting one week, one month, or longer); and infectious or noninfectious. There are at least six infectious forms, which can be bacterial, viral, or fungal (bacterial keratoconjunctivitis is common among children). There are at least five noninfectious forms (the most common is allergic). The type of keratoconjunctivitis and the way it’s treated correspond with the cause. Common treatments include eye drops, ointments, and antihistamines. When caused by another illness or
disease, it is treated by managing that condition.
If your eyes are puffy, watery, itchy and red where they should be white, you should contact your healthcare provider. You may have keratoconjunctivitis, or inflammation in both your cornea and your conjunctiva. While some forms may resolve on their own, other types may need to be treated by your healthcare provider. To schedule an exam, please call 201-8960096. Our office is located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-8960007. We accept most insurance. P.S. Many types of keratoconjunctivitis can clear up quickly, while others are chronic and require long-term management. Allergic keratoconjunctivitis can cause eye damage if not treated.
Presented by Joseph A. DeLuca, M.D., F.A.C.S.
DeLuca Vision Consultants
Aurea Neira
Aurea Neira died May 18, 2026. She was 93.
Born in Lima, Peru, she lived many years in Newark and Lyndhurst.
Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home,
WILFRED ARMITAGE & 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.
596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Her funeral Mass was celebrated at Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington. Burial was in Holy Cross
Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Cemetery, also North Arlington.
Aurea was the spouse of the late Ismael Moscoso and mother of Ana Moscoso, Betty Moscoso, Sonia Jara and Emperatriz Moscoso. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
Mulligan Funeral Home
331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison
Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221
p
H e h a s e n r i c h e d t h e l i ve s o f c o u n t l e s s re s i d e n t s , H h a s n r i h h l i s f n l s s s i n s
a n d i t i s b o t h a n h o n o r a n d a p r i v i l e g e to k n o w h i m . ” a d t s b o t a o o a d a e e to o . ”
HARRISON 2nd floor
3 BR’s, EIK, LR, 1 Bath $2600 + 1 month securitiy Utilities separate, Access to yard, 1 Parking space included 10 min walk to PATH No Smoking Available Now Call leave message or text Se habla español (917)294-4024 01W03
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 01W03
HARRISON 2nd Floor.
2 BR’s, EIK, LR,DR 1.5 months security. Utilities separate, Heating included. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (973)351-5512 01W03
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
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
KEARNY 1 large BR
$1,900 Available Now 1.5 months security HT/HW included, hardwood floors, pets allowed, parking, laundry Se habla español 201515-7078 01W03
KEARNY 3 BR’s, $2150 + 1.5 months security Utilities Separate, No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 01W03
KEARNY 2nd floor. 3 BR. LR. EIK. DR. $2100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate, No Pets/Smoking Available June 15th (201)7729969 01W03
KEARNY 3rd floor, 1 BR , large LR, Large EIK, Central AC / Heat. $1600 + 1 month security. W/D hook-up. Avl. Now (201)240-9304 Texting Preferred 01W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2
BR’s, LR, EIK $2200 + 1 months security Utilities separate, Includes 1 Parking space. No Pets/ Smoking, Available June 1st (201)726-8516 01W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2
Plus BR’s, LR, DR, EIK 1 Bath $2300 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (908)652-6553 02W03
KEARNY Kearny Ave. 2nd Floor, LR, 4 bedrooms, use of backyard. 1.5 months security. Separate utilities. Near Schools Available Now. (201)991-3366 or (201)889-2495 01W03
KEARNY Studio for rent $1,200.00 Month $1,000.00 Security All utilities included Private entrance Wi-fi included No Smoking/ No Pets One person only Avail June 1st Text/Call 917-2803084 01W03
KEARNY 1st floor 2
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
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
LYNDHURST 2 Bedroom Apt. $2000 + 1M Security Utilities separate 2nd Fl Walk to train, shopping eateries, great schools Avail 6/1. 201955-0001 01W03
N. ARLINGTON
N.ARLINGTON 1st floor, 2 BRs, Large LR & DR combination. HW floors throughout, Easy access to public transit. Off Street Parking available. $1,875 + 1.5 months security. (908)462-8525 01W03
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
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
KEARNY EATS! RETURNS FOR MOST OF JUNE
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
Want
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. The KUEZ is encouraging both residents and visitors to come out and support these local businesses.
“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! partici -
pants 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 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.
HARRISON
KEARNY
KEARNY
NEWARK
KEARNY
KEARNY
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED
EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED
Job Opening 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 01W08
Position available for cashier in grocery store in Kearny NJ Part Time please call at (862) 202-5765 01W03
Quant Developer sought by ALPHACHI GLOBAL LLC in Jersey City, NJ for s/ware dvlpmt. Reqmts: Master’s Deg (or foreign equiv) in Comp Sci, or rltd field, & 4 yrs of exp in a s/ware dvlpmt role w/ a quantitative trading co. Position reqs travel to Shanghai, China for approximately 1 mth at a time, 3 times per yr, to collab w/ the Shanghai-based team. Email resume to mingyue.tu@qpalpha.com, & must ref “Job code: QD1”. 03W01
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
Civil Engineer sought by KS Engineers, PC in Newark, NJ. Applying civil engg knowl & techniques, work on projects that incl bridge & culvert rehabilitation & replacement; roadway widening & reconstruction; traffic signal improvements; site dvlpmt; green infrastructure; & asset inventory & d/base mgmt. Reqs: Master’s deg in Civil Engg. Salary: $100,131.00/yr. Medical/Dental/Vision insurance. 401K, Long & Short-term Disability. Send resumes to: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/ Details/4131838/Civil-Engineer 03W01
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
LEGAL NOTICES
The deadline for print legal ads is at 2 p.m., every Thursday. For web, there is no deadline. If you do not receive a written response from us within 24 hours, please call our office to confirm. (201) 991-1600
Take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:10-16, application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, New Jersey, to receive title papers authorizing the issuance of a New Jersey certificate of ownership for: 2014 Freightliner Truck Tractor (TT-CT), VIN: 3AKJGLDVXFSGC4267
Objections, if any, should be made immediately in writing to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017.
($22.50 05/13/26 ,05/20/26 & 05/27/26)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: The following self-storage unit contents containing Freezers and Shelves will be sold via online public auction to satisfy a lien on Monday 6/8/2026 at 8 am. Unit E7, NY Approved Vendor Corp. Located at 35 O’Brien St Kearny NJ 07032 Auction will take place online at: www.storagetreasures.com.
($7.00 Newspaper 05/20/26 & 05/27/26)
The regular meeting of the Kearny Planning Board scheduled for Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026, at 7:30 pm in the Council Chambers at 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032, has been cancelled. By: Jennifer Diaz, Board Secretary
($6.00 Online 05/22/26 & Newspaper 05/27/26
PAYLESS ROOFING
*Roofing *Siding *Repairs *Coatings Tired of high Estimates? Call Bruno (973) 906-8404 (908) 486-0866
All types of Carpentry FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts (201) 893-0656
#13VH02536200 52W06
CORP •Paint • Powerwash and more •Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002 30W52
Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Kearny PD’s COP Unit institutes Walk to School With a Cop
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Not too long ago, Kearny Police Officer Rich Pawlowski approached Sgt. Jack Grimm. Pawlowski is a member of the department’s Traffic Bureau, Grimm the Community Oriented Policing Unit. When he spoke with Grimm, Pawlowski suggested bringing Walk to School With a Cop to the COP Unit.
And though not a COP officer, Pawlowski volunteered to take part in the program if it got off the ground.
The concept was simple. Police would meet kids before school at a designated spot. The officers would then walk with the kids to school. It would become yet another way for local police to interact with the youngest members of the community.
Several weeks ago, it happened at the town’s elementary schools, with thirdthrough fifth-graders getting their walks to school with the
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police. And from all indications, it was a tremendous experience for everyone involved.
“We decided to just go for it,” Grimm says. “It worked in other departments, we liked the idea and it worked here, too.”
Since this was somewhat of a test and see situation, with great results, Grimm says the unit will likely do this again sometime in October, perhaps with more than just the original three grade levels up to and including sixth-graders.
Grimm says all the participating schools Schuyler, Franklin, Washington, Roosevelt and Garfield had a good number of kids. But the walk with Garfield School students exceeded 40 kids. All of this was possible because of the support, Grimm says, of now-retired Capt. Glenn Reed and current Commander Capt. Chris Levchak.
“Their support was great,” Grimm says. “We’re really looking forward to doing this again next school year and hope even more kids join us.”
Robert P.
Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster
