Harrison school kids ‘Rock’ learning at popular annual program
By Laura Comppen Special to The Observer
You’re never too old — or too young to rock ‘n roll.
Just ask the students at Harrison’s Hamilton Intermediate School.
Fourth- and fifth-graders recently participated in what is probably the most anticipated day in the school year — the annual Rock Your School event. Adorned with themed decorations, Hamilton School was transformed into a rock ‘n roll wonderland, complete with music and students dressed like rockstars, (fake) tattoos included, all ready to “rock” their learning.
Throughout the day, students participated in a variety of engaging language arts, math and science activities, all designed to make learning fun and inter-
DEA’s precription
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.
kc@theobserver.com
The Kearny Police Department conducts its semi-annual DEA Drug Take Back Oct. 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Police
active. Teachers went above and beyond, creating unique and memorable experiences that kept students excited and moving from one activity to the next.
The highlight of the day was the Masked Teacher competition, where staff members donned inflatable costumes and performed songs for the students. Laughter and cheers filled the room as students tried to guess which teacher was behind each performance.
This year even featured a lively judges’ table, adding more fun and audience participation to the show.
“I loved Rock Your School day! I loved how Mrs. Paparella decorated our classroom, and the Masked Teacher was fun, especially singing all the songs,” rockstar fourth-grader Nicolle Moura said.
John Carey, the new principal at
drug takeback upcoming at Kearny PD HQ
Headquarters, at 237 Laurel Ave. All medicines with the exception of liquids and sharps may be turned in on this date.
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day addresses a crucial public safety and public health issue. According to the
2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 13.8 million people in 2024 misused prescription psychotherapeutic drugs including 7.6 million who misused prescription opioids, 4.6 million people who misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives and
3.9 million people who misused prescription stimulants.
The study shows a large quantity of abused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.
Further information on the event may be found at www.dea. gov/takebackday.
Any questions may be forwarded to Sgt. Jack Grimm, of the Kearny Police Department’s Community Policing Unit, at (201) 998-1313, ext. 2866 or jgrimm@kearnynjpd.org.
Photo by Laura Comppen
Fourth- and fifth-graders at Hamilton Intermediate School in Harrison rocked out to a special day of learning during the annual Rock Your School event. Fourth-grade teacher and event coordinator Danielle Paparella (rear right), joins Principal John Carey (rear left), with a band of rockstars. See ROCK, Page 15
ALDEAN SIZZLES AT SPORTS ILLUSTRATED STADIUM
By Jace Macfie For The Observer
The Full Throttle Tour came to Harrison and went “Burnin’ It Down!”
Country music superstar and reigning Academy of Country Music Artist of the Decade Jason Aldean brought his headline tour to Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison Friday night, Oct. 10, to a rowdy crowd who were ready for a night of Aldean’s hits and country music staples.
Openers Lauren Gottshall, Chase McDaniel and the quickly rising Warren Zeiders, who has recently begun his own headline tour, got the crowd going early while the rest of the attendees in their cowboy boots, Wrangler
HAPPENING IN HARRISON
jeans and flannels continued to file into the stadium, preparing for a night of action.
Aldean, who on the same day released his “30 Number One Hits” compilation album celebrating his two-decade run at the top of country music, played a thunderous 20-song country rock setlist, which marked the first concert at the stadium since last year’s name change from Red Bull Arena. Aldean’s concert was also only the second in the entire history of the stadium, as previously, the indie rock band Dispatch played there in July 2011.
Aldean kicked off his set with his 2005 country rock “Hicktown,” and the energy only kept building from there. Other high notes included Aldean fan favorites, including his 2010 biggest hit to date, “Dirt Road Anthem,” “Big Green Tractor,” the controversial and polarizing “Try That In A Small Town,” “My Kinda Party” and his energy-filled closing song “She’s Country,” which ended with him shooting off T-shirts into the crowd.
While this was the first concert at the stadium in over 14 years, do not be surprised if there are more in the future.
The Aldean concert was a clear success, and it should be expected that more concerts and good times will follow.
Community-Wide GARAGE SALE
Let’s Talk
Estate
SHOULD I USE VIRTUAL STAGING TO SELL MY HOME?
These days, homebuyers shop online to find the properties that meet their criteria. Home staging— the act of preparing a home for a potential buyer—has long been a tool for selling a home. Traditional home staging involves removing personal items and rearranging furniture (or bringing in new furniture) so buyers are more easily able to see the home as their own. Many sellers move out before listing their property, leaving the home looking cold and unwelcoming. Virtual staging—using software to position digital furniture and décor in the listing photos—makes a home look more livable, and it often helps
homes sell faster, for a higher price, and for a fraction of the cost of traditional staging. From inside staging to outside curb appeal, we can advise you on many ways to make your home as tempting as possible to potential buyers. When it comes time to sell, we will put all of our training, expertise, and experience to good use to get you the price you are looking for. There’s no need to go through the selling/buying process alone, not when we are close by. Dreams can come true when you call on us for help with your real estate needs. Call us to ask about virtual staging for your property for sale.
Jarlynn Hyde:
Photo by Scott Macfie
Senior Harmony Club heading to Atlantic City
The Kearny Friendship Harmony Club at the Senior Center sponsors an Atlantic City bus trip to Resorts Wednesday, Oct. 22. The cost is $45. A bus leaves from 60 Columbia Ave. at 9:30 a.m. A movie will be shown and bingo will be played on the bus. Interested? Contact Marion at (201) 889-3387 or Kay at (201) 991-4549.
NA Knights hosting charity pasta dinner
The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus host a benefit Italian dinner night for Mercy House, a place Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 5:30 p.m., at Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington. On the menu: meatballs, pasta, salad, bread, dessert and refreshments. The cost is $25 per adult, $10 for children 11 or younger. Reservations are required and may be made by calling (201) 988-0183 by Wednesday, Oct. 15. The Knights ask those attending to consider donating a non-expired, non-perishable canned good for the “ Food for
John M. Pinho
Families ” project.
Kearny-Belleville Elks hosting Trunk or Treat
The Kearny-Belleville Elks host a Trunk or Treat Monday, Oct.27, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. near the lodge, 601 Elm St., Kearny. Kids, wear your favorite costume and bring a bag for treats. Jimmy Hemp Productions will provide free music. Interested in decorating a trunk? Contact Gloria at (201) 951-4947.
St. Stephen’s hosting Trunk or Treat
St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny, hosts its annual Trunk or Treat Oct. 25, from 7 to 9 p.m. Admission is a canned good for the food pantry.
Scots’ Oktoberfest upcoming
The Scots’ 2025 Rocktoberfest celebration takes place Saturday, Oct. 25, in the club’s backyard. Tickets are $30 and include games, raffles, prizes, hotdogs, brats, burgers and German beers. Kids 12 and younger may attend for free.
NEWS BRIEFS
Friends of NAPL hosting Thanksgiving basket giveaway
Friends of the North Arlington Public Library sponsor a Thanksgiving basket giveaway filled with prizes, including a $25 gift certificate.
Each $1 raffle ticket buys a chance to win and helps support the library.
The winner will be announced Nov. 21.
NAPL hosting Halloween lecture
The North Arlington Public Library hosts “ Halloween: a Haunted History, ” by Kevin Woyce, Saturday, Oct. 25, at 1 p.m. Ever wonder why we carve pumpkins, wear costumes and decorate homes with skeletons and ghosts every October? Woyce will explore the history of
Halloween, from old world harvest festivals to modern trick-or-treating. He will illustrate these stories with original photographs, antique greeting cards, movie posters and historical images. Woyce is a Lyndhurst resident and has been lecturing on regional history and holiday customs since 2008. Space at the
Continued on the next page
Authorities: Lyndhurst man set apartment ablaze while live streaming it all
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
A42-year-old Lyndhurst man, who has nearly three dozen encounters with the Lyndhurst Police Department since Aug. 28, is behind bars after he is alleged to have set fire to an apartment, all while live streaming the incident on Facebook Live.
Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella announced the arrest of Alexander Pluchino, 42, of Lyndhurst, on charges of aggravated arson, arson, risk of widespread injury or damage, criminal mischief and failure to control or report a fire. The arrest was
the result of a joint investigation conducted by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and Chief Matthew Finck and the Lyndhurst Police Department and Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. Here’s how it all went down, according to Musella:
ARSON, Page 15
Continued from previous page
program is limited. Sign up at the Reference
Kearny Project Graduation hosting casino bus trip in the fall
Kearny Project Graduation 2026 hosts a bus trip fundraiser to Wind Creek Casino Nov. 30. The cost is $45 with a $25 casino play return. A bus leaves from Kearny Bank, Kearny Avenue, at 9 a.m. that day and will return home at 7 p.m. (Please do not park in the bank’s lot.) To pay, visit $kearnyprojectgrad on Cashapp, @kearny-projectgrad on Venmo or mail checks to KHS Project Grad, Kearny High School, 336 Devon St., Kearny, N.J. 07032.
Get help paying for food from NA Health Department
The North Arlington Health Department hosts presentations for residents of North Arlington and surrounding towns to learn how to apply for and receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Health Department, 10 Beaver Ave., on Nov. 18 and Dec. 9. Appointments may be made by calling (201) 991-6060, ext. 123.
Attention candidates
CTo make the application quicker, be prepared to present proof of income, proof of address, costs of rent and utilities, child- or adult-care expenses and medical expenses for those 60 and older or for those with a disability. There is no fee to apply. If one is ever asked to pay to apply for such benefits, it is likely a scam.
Kearny Belleville Elks hosting blood drive
The Kearny Belleville Elks host a blood drive Saturday, Nov. 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church. 663 Kearny Ave. Walk-ins are welcome, but donors may up by visiting nybc. org, using group code 70154. Please bring ID and eat and drink water before donating.
Salvation Army of Kearny hosting open gyms with Tom Fraser
The Salvation Army of greater Kearny, 28 Beech St., hosts open gyms Tuesday and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. for kids aged 10 to 17. Games will be under the supervision of the immortal Tom Fraser, retired Lincoln School counselor and coach and longtime director of the Presbyterian Boys & Girls Club.
andidates and incumbents running for municipal office in Kearny and North Arlington are invited to submit a headshot with bio and candidate’s statement to The Observer to be included in for publication on Oct. 29.
Candidates should limit their bios and statements to 400 words. Please submit written materials in the body of an email or as a Microsoft Word document. Do not send PDFs. Attach headshots in JPG format. The deadline to submit is set for noon, Thursday, Oct. 23. Please submit all materials to editorial@theobserver.com. The Observer will only edit the statements for grammar and space considerations.
Pluchino
SYDNEY’S DESPAIR IS SHOWING!
HE LIES & LIES & LIES ABOUT BEING ABLE TO DO THE IMPOSSIBLE!
Last month, SYDNEY sent out a mailer to voters where he claimed to have plans to ‘restore recreation and medical facilities’ in Kearny. Does SYDNEY think he can reopen West Hudson Hospital? Or is there another medical facility SYDNEY is going to restore that none of us are aware of? Where are the recreation facilities SYDNEY wants to restore? Kearny has countless recreation facilities and they’ve all either been renovated recently or are going to be renovated in the coming months. Is SYDNEY planning to do the impossible? He wants to ‘support law enforcement to deter crime.’ Does SYDNEY believe Police Chief Scott Macfie needs his input to make Kearny even safer than it already is and always has been? SYDNEY says he wants to deliver ‘tax relief and eliminate wasteful spending,’ but can’t name a single concept of how he will deliver tax relief and he can’t name one area in Kearny where spending has been wasteful at all. All he does is throw out impossible-to-achieve ideas and falsehoods hoping people will believe him.
CAROL JEAN DOYLE AND HER TEAM HAVE THE RESULTS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
CAROL JEAN DOYLE and her team have done their best to govern by building consensus and serving with kindness. Anyone can make promises. Lord knows her opponent does a lot of that. But ONLY CAROL JEAN DOYLE has the results to show for her words. CAROL JEAN has addressed Kearny’s parking issues and continues to do so. CAROL JEAN has addressed street repairs and paving needs. CAROL JEAN has made the impossible decisions her predecessor left behind for her — like crumbling rooftops, the water utility, broken heaters and air conditioning and so much more — and CAROL JEAN is now taking the steps to ensure all repairs needed are completed. CAROL JEAN knows these things have to be done and she refuses to echo the past where it was always left for the next generation or leadership group. And CAROL JEAN has always made tough decisions that will affect the lives of so many Kearny residents. CAROL JEAN has always been there for you when you needed her. Can Kearny really afford to elect a new mayor who has never made a tough decision in his life and who has shown, over and over, he will say or do whatever it takes to get elected? The is answer ‘no,’ but CAROL JEAN can’t do it alone. She needs her team — the experienced team. Don’t let a novice and his team fool you. Only CAROL JEAN and her team know how to get things done. They will continue to make progress in the next four years, but can only do so with your help and support.
This Election Day, there’s only one team that will deliver for Kearny — and it’s Team Doyle, spots 5A and 6A on your ballots.
Remember, early voting begins October 25 through November 2, 2025. On Election Day, November 4, polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
MarytineDeCastro n First Ward
JoseRodrigues n Second Ward
CarolJeanDoyle n Mayor
Fred Esteves n Third Ward
Gerald Ficeto n Fourth Ward
Lyndhurst PD: Duo riding around in stolen car arrested
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Two women — including one from Kearny — decided to take a ride into Lyndhurst while driving around in a stolen vehicle. And if you’re a regular reader of this newspaper, you already know it didn’t end well for both women.
According to Capt. Paul Haggerty, the Lyndhurst Police Department’s public-information officer:
On Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025 at ap-
proximately 3:30 p.m., Lyndhurst patrol units were advised by a fixed Automated License Plate Reader hit confirming a stolen vehicle bearing Jersey registration traveling northbound on Ridge Road at Union Avenue. Upon being notified of the alert, Officer Michael D’Alessandro conducted a search of the surrounding area. As Officer D’Alessandro exited the parking lot of 425 Lewandowski Street (Stop & Shop), he observed the aforementioned vehicle occupied by two women traveling north on
Lewandowski Street.
The vehicle made a right turn traveling east on Brisbin Avenue then a left to travel north on Orient Way. Officer D’Alessandro conducted a motor-vehicle stop in the entrance to the Vermella apartment complex, at Orient Way and Marine Avenue. Officer D’Alessandro was joined by Lt. Charles Giangeruso and Officers Michal A. Carrino and Vincent DiNicola moments later. Both women were placed under arrest without incident.
During the stop, Denise A.
Fina, 57, of Morris Plains, was found to be in operation of the vehicle and was joined by her front seat passenger, Stephanie L. Harvatt, 39, of Kearny. The vehicle was confirmed stolen out of Ridgewood, which had been entered stolen on the same day. Officer D’Alessandro located a glassine bag containing a crushed crystal like substance, a burnt glass pipe commonly used to ingest meth amphetamines and a purple metal container containing a rock-like substance admitted to be meth amphetamines.
Both were arrested as Fina was charged with receiving a stolen vehicle and possession of a controlled-dangerous substance, both third degree crimes, and she was remanded to the Bergen County Jail, Hackensack.
Harvatt was charged with possession of a controlled-dangerous substance and possession drug paraphernalia.
Harvatt was released on a complaint summons to appear in Bergen County Central Judicial Processing Court.
*Offer is available for new money and it may be changed at any time without notice. A minimum opening balance of $25,000.00 is required. Lusitania Savings Bank uses the daily balance compounding method to calculate interest. The annual percentage yield (APY) on your account assumes that the funds will be on deposit for a full year at the initial rate and that interest is credited to the principal when paid. Interest will be paid monthly An early withdrawal penalty will be imposed if CD is closed prior to maturity. Penalties charged to your account may reduce earnings. Current customers are now able to open accounts online.
n
n
n
gm@theobserver.com General Manager
October 15, 2025
LEARNING & GROWING
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
After losing nearly the entire roster from last year’s state sectional title team, Lyndhurst girls volleyball coach Steve Vahalla knew this season was going to be one marked with several teachable moments.
In a fall full of learning and developing, this past week proved to be especially beneficial for a young Golden Bears team that starts five sophomores as they got their first taste of tournament play.
This past Thursday, Lyndhurst, seeded 19th, dropped a 3-0 decision to 14th-seeded Paramus Catholic in the first round of the Bergen County Tournament. The loss dropped Lyndhurst into the Bergen County Invitational, where on
Saturday, the Bears out-lasted Leonia in five sets to advance to the quarterfinals.
For the season, Lyndhurst is now 14-6 and has won 10 of its last 12 matches, heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
“As a young team, it’s important to be a part of these matches so we know how to handle them down the stretch,” said Vahalla, referring to both the caliber of teams in Bergen County and the best of five format that has also been adopted for the state tournament. “I am very proud of this team and how resilient they are. They love the sport and are willing to learn. They want to know how to get better and what they can do to improve. We have grown a lot over the past month and I’m extremely honored to coach them.”
Leading the Lyndhurst attack has been outside hitter Jaylin Vuono Reid. The sophomore ranks among the county’s best in kills (153) and digs (186) this season. Saturday’s matchup with Leonia was her most impressive performance to date, finishing with 22 kills, 24 digs and eight aces.
“Jaylin continues to get better as the weeks go on and it showed on Saturday,” Valhalla said. “In the final set vs. Leonia, she put down three straight kills to gain the momentum back and take us to victory. She is becoming the go to hitter if we need a kill or point and her potential is endless.”
Complementing Vuono Reid at the other outside hitter spot is fellow sophomore Olivia DeRuvo, who recently shifted outside from middle hitter.
DeRuvo has 84 kills and 78 digs on the season.
DeRuvo and junior middle hitter Gabriela Kalisiak (79 kills, 73 digs) have given Lyndhurst a potent three-pronged attack in recent matches.
“Both Olivia and Gabby are two athletes who can change a match,” said Vahalla. “They hit the ball well, can find open spots and block well too.
“These three have the power to control a game and it’s been fun to watch when all three are on the court.”
At the other middle hitter spot is sophomore Sofia Campos, who just recently entered the starting lineup. Junior Christina Mizeski (37 kills, 111 digs), is the starter at opposite hitter.
Orchestrating the offense has been another underclassmen in sophomore Madison
Herman, who has 373 assists in her first year on varsity. Sophomore Raeleen Ortiz has had a strong season at libero with 157 digs and Debra Ogunbowale, the lone senior on the roster, has 59 digs as the team’s defensive specialist. Fellow sophomores Sarah Martins and Arianna Del Villar bring additional depth to the roster.
Lyndhurst is set to host Holy Angels in the Bergen County Invitational semifinals on Saturday. But first, the Bears have a pair of big NJIC Colonial Division matchups when they travel to Leonia on Tuesday for the third meeting of the season between the two. On Thursday, Lyndhurst goes to Bogota to face a Bucs team ranked No. 17 in the state by NJ.com.
Kearny and Harrison advance to Hudson boys and girls semifinals
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
It’s no surprise to see local soccer teams perform well in the Hudson County Tournament
that started last week. But while quarterfinal victories are nothing new for the Harrison boys or the boys and girls at Kearny, there is one unfamiliar entrant in this upcoming Saturday’s semifinals.
For the first time since 2016, Harrison’s girls team is in the semifinals as the Blue Tide, seeded third, blanked sixth-seeded Secaucus in the quarterfinals on Saturday morning.
acting • backstage pathways
band together • hip hop arts & culture
musical theater • TD jazz for teens
saturday performing arts programs
fall: sep 27 – dec 13
spring: jan 24 – may 16 sign up today! njpac.org/education
Thalia Sosa had a hat trick for Harrison, continuing a torrid nine-day stretch in which the junior striker scored 10 goals in four games.
With 13 wins on the season, its most in more than 15 years, including victories in each of
their last seven games, there isn’t a girls team in the county hotter than the Blue Tide.
A few hours later, Kearny punched their ticket to the semifinals for the 16th time in a row
See SOCCER, Page 10
5.8x3_AE_Sep_Ad _TheObserver.indd 1 9/22/25 12:53 PM
components of our eyes all deteriorate as we grow
causing a number of age-related eye conditions. Some of these are well known, such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and even presbyopia (age-related vision loss). Other common age-related issues can lead to additional symptoms and eye conditions that are more common in seniors. Our tear production declines after age 40, leading to a number of related eye problems: dry eye, watery eyes (epiphora), eye irritation, and eyestrain are all common. Age-related changes to vitreous, the gel-like fluid that fills the back of our eyes, can cause floaters and other visual disturbances, and it can also lead to retinal detachment and permanent vision loss. Eye specialists can maintain or correct your vision or slow the symptoms of severe disease. Regular exams protect your eye health as you age. If it’s been some time since you’ve had an eye exam, please call 201-8960096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To get in touch with our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.
P.S. Seniors are at higher risk for trichiasis (the eyelashes grow inward), blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), and diabetic retinopathy (blood vessel damage in the eyes), all of which affect vision and eye health.
Niamh Devlin
Gianna Covello
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Kearny’s Betancourt shines in new sport
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Miguel Betancourt had never played organized football before when he was approached by Kearny head coach John Policano about playing. It turned out, Policano didn’t have to give much of a recruiting pitch to Betancourt, then a freshman.
“I really wanted to play football my freshman year, but I couldn’t because I was new to the registration process,” said Betancourt. “I’ve always wanted to play, but I never got the chance to. When sophomore year came around, I signed up and tried it out.”
Roughly 18 months later, it’s a decision that has paid off in a big way both for Betancourt and the Kardinals.
In his first season on varsity
and second of organized football, Betancourt, now a junior, has emerged as Kearny’s leading rusher. Friday night at Cliffside Park, Betancourt rushed 11 times for a career-high 186 yards and three touchdowns in a 28-14 victory.
It marked the fourth 100-plus yard performance in a span of five games for Betancourt, who was selected as The Observer Athlete of the Week.
For the season, Betancourt is averaging an eye-popping 13.3 yards per carry, rushing for 587 yards and eight touchdowns on just 44 carries.
“He was in one of my classes and he told me he was a runner and I asked if he would think about playing football. Sure enough, he came out last year and played JV,” Policano said. “This year, he’s really im-
Premier Car e TALK S
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA
Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder where red blood cells become hard, sticky, and shaped like crescents. These misshapen cells can block blood flow, causing pain and organ damage. Symptoms include fatigue, swelling in hands and feet, frequent infections, delayed growth, and vision problems. Painful episodes, known as sickle cell crises, occur when sickled cells obstruct blood vessels. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Options include medications like hydroxyurea, blood transfusions, and pain relievers. Recent advances have introduced gene therapies that offer potential cures by correcting the faulty gene. Early diagnosis through newborn screening and
comprehensive care can improve the quality of life and increase life expectancy for those affected. Sickle cells can damage the spleen, raising the risk of developing infections. Babies and children with sickle cell anemia commonly receive vaccinations and antibiotics to prevent potentially life-threatening infections, such as pneumonia. Please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474 to schedule an appointment, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B.
P.S. Sickle cell anemia is most common among individuals of African descent, but it also affects people from the Middle East, India, and the Mediterranean.
Email any questions or comments to: premiercare@gmail.com
Premier Care Associates of West Hudson is available on a walk-in or appointment basis
proved as a running back. He’s now running so hard and so fast that it’s impressive to see.”
Both Policano and Betancourt cited Kearny’s second game this season, a loss against Memorial on Sept. 12 as a turning point for the running back. On that night, Betancourt ran for 164 yards and two touchdowns on just nine carries.
Two weeks later, Betancourt ran the ball eight times for 110 yards and three touchdowns in the Kardinals’ 35-8 win over Ferris. Then on Oct. 3 against Fort Lee, Betancourt ran for 101 yards on nine carries.
“Make
“The Memorial game woke me up,” said Betancourt. “That’s where the confidence really started to grow for me.
“The more reps I get, the more confidence I have. I get more confidence in practice, practicing the plays.Then, just using that on game day and trusting the offensive line that those holes are going to be open.”
“Miguel’s strength is hole recognition and being able to cut on a dime,” said Policano. “I think his greatest strength right now and what he’s really developed in the last couple of games is his ability to get to the hole and then make a quick cut and break to the outside or break to the inside. His cutting ability and ability to read the holes has really been great.”
Those skills were on display on
Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
Dr. Hector Aguilar
Harrison Cancer League presents
Spiritual
Awakenings
with
Mystical World...
the Other View’s Patricia Farrell & Team of Readers
Sunday, October 26th, 2025 at 2PM Elks Lodge, 406 Harrison Ave., Harrison NJ
Seats are limited and no tickets are sold at the door. $35 per ticket including snacks • Cash Bar • Optional private reading $35
ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE HARRISON CANCER LEAGUE
For ticket sales, contact Marian Bradley 862-763-0047
(Venmo - Maria-Bradley-39: Joan Michaelson - 917-847-0820)
Please make checks payable to The Harrison Cancer League and send to PO Box 741, Harrison, NJ 07029
RSVP: NO LATER THAN FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17TH, 2025
SOCCER
Continued from Page 8
after defeating McNair, 3-0. Standout freshman Gianna Covello had a goal and an assist while veteran defenders Keala Cicchino and Nimah Devlin scored a goal apiece.
On the boys side, Kearny is back in the semifinals after a 2-0 victory over Dickinson. Senior Braidan Logue scored both goals in the second half for his first career multi-goal game and Caleb Baptista made five saves for his fifth shutout of the season.
Harrison’s boys team locked up their spot in the semifinals
state-ranked Morris Knolls and Chatham.
Harrison’s girls will look to advance to the final for the first time in program history at 12:30 p.m. when it goes to second-seeded Hoboken. With an 11-1-1 record and 82 goals scored, Hoboken represents arguably the greatest test the young Blue Tide have faced this season.
national No. 1 St. Benedict’s Prep
At noon, Harrison will travel to
In the Bergen County Tournament, 15th-seeded North Arlington won its first BCT game since 2022 with a 1-0 victory over 18th-seeded Saddle Brook on Sunday. Devyn Sullivan scored the lone goal of the game for the Vikings, who have won eight of their last nine games. Next up on Wednesday, is the greatest challenge yet for a young North Arlington team as it plays a second-seeded Immaculate Heart team ranked sixth in the state.
On Saturday, 16th-seeded Lyndhurst lost a 2-0 game to 17th-seeded Tenafly. Lyndhurst moves on to the Bergen County Invitational where it will host Becton on Wednesday.
Seeding for the Essex County boys and girls soccer tournaments are set to be announced on Monday evening, after The Observer’s deadlines.
Braidan Logue
Christian Barrios
John Gallagher Jr.
John Gallagher Jr., 88, affectionately known as The Shark, died peacefully in his sleep on Oct. 5, 2025, at his home in Bluffton, South Carolina. He leaves behind his beloved daughter Patty and her husband Mark Sandford, and the apple of his eye, his granddaughter Kelsey.
John was a devout Catholic and a faithful parishioner of Holy Cross Church in Harrison. He served in the US Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1958. John worked for the Harrison Police Department for 25 years, retiring with the rank of lieutenant. He was a third-degree Knight of Columbus and a member of Our Lady of Grace Council 402, Harrison.
John deeply valued his family, good food and trips to the casino and racetrack. His rib recipe, like himself, was
OBITUARIES
cherished and will never be duplicated. He was a beloved man, an excellent dancer and will be truly missed by those who knew him.
We can take comfort in the fact John is joining his late wife, Dorothy, after being apart for 27 years.
John was predeceased by his parents, John and Isabelle (Rak) Gallagher, and his brother Robert (Bob) Gallagher. He is survived by his siblings, Bernadine Szalus (late husband Mike), Tom Gallagher and his wife Irene, Dorothy (Dot) DiNardo and her husband Mike, Marilyn Blazejewski and her husband Bob, Christine Plesniarski and her husband John, and his sister-in-law Willy Gallagher, as well as his extended Kuczynski family. John cherished the relationship he had with all of his nieces and nephews and loved them as if they were all
his own children.
Relatives and friends visited at the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, 585 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. The funeral will begin in the funeral home on Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 9:45 a.m. then proceed to Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington, where a funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ASPCA http://aspca.org to honor John and his cherished dog, Rascal.
George ‘Windy’ Wesley Hayes Sr. George “Windy” Wesley Hayes Sr., 96, of Largo, Florida, died peacefully at home on Oct. 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born March 1, 1929, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania,
he met the love of his life there, and they later moved to Kearny to begin their life and raise a family. George worked his entire career as a foreman at American Oil & Supply in Newark, retiring in 1992. He later relocated to Largo, Florida, where he devoted his time to volunteering and giving back to his community. In his retirement he was a beloved employee of Publix.
All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
An avid bingo player and devoted fan of the Tampa Bay Rays, George was also a gifted storyteller known for his quick wit, generous and gentle spirit and his kindness.
He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Beverly Hayes; his
sons Jeffrey Sr. (Kathy) and George (Laurie); six grandchildren — Jennifer Stephens (Eric), Karen Hanrahan (Jason), Sharon Brown, Jeffrey Hayes Jr., Kristen McGrogan (Michael) and Christopher Hayes (fiancé, Brooke Lorup); and eleven great grandchildren — Michael Jr., Kayla, Connor, Daniel, Thomas, Tyler, Brynn, Liam, Devin, Owen and Emma. He was predeceased by his parents and seven brothers and sisters.
In keeping with his wishes, a private cremation will take place and there will be no public services. The family will gather privately to celebrate his life.
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
You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.
Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home
Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657
BELLEVILLE Large
1 BR on 2nd floor. LR, EIK. Hardwood floors, $1750 + 1.5 months security. H/HW Included. Washer/Dryer in basement. No Smoking. Walk to Trans. Pets allowed $500 Pet fee Available on or before Nov 15th (561)7167628 22W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
HARRISON 3rd Floor 3
BR’s, LR, Kitchen, 1 Bath
$2300 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate, Near Schools, No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (973)485-6964 21W03
HARRISON Available now 1st Floor Large 3
BR’s, 1 Bath, Backyard
$2350 + 1.5 months
security, utilities separate, Near Schools and Transportation Call (201)991-3366 21W03
HARRISON 1st floor, 1 bedroom apartment. 3 rooms $1300/month. Security 1.5 month. Available immediately/ Nov 1st. No pets/smoking. Close to all transportation. Please call 973-390-3684 22W03
HARRISON 1st Floor 2 BR’s, Kitchen, LR, Bathroom. No Smoking/Pets, 1.5 months security, Utilities not included, Available Now (973)714-2368 or (201)463-6303 23W03
HARRISON 1st floor 2
BR’s,1 Bath, EIK, Hardwood floors throughout, Use of Backyard $2,000 + 1 month security, Utilities separate, close to PATH, Parking included. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (917)294-4024 23W03
KEARNY 1 BR, LR, EIK , $1650 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Available Now (973)508-4209 21W03
KEARNY 1st Floor 3
BRs, 1 Bath, LR & EIK $2500 + 1 months security Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking Available Now (914)6458263 21W03
KEARNY 2nd floor. 3 Bedroom, 1 bath, EIK, LR. Hardwood floors & Ceramic floors Backyard use. No Pets/Smoking. $1850 + 1.5 mth security. Utilities Separate. Available October 15th (973)668-8305 21W03
KEARNY Arlington Place. 3rd Floor apartment. 2 BR’s, 1 Bath. LR, EIK $1,600/ + 1 month deposit. Utilities Seperate. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. Good for single or couple. Please Call (201)955-0221 21W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2 bedroom, LR, EIK carpeted $1800 + 1 months security Utilities separate, heat supplied no pets/smoking Available November 1st (201)726-8516 28W03
KEARNY Arlington section 2nd floor. Newly renovated. 2 Large BR’S, 1 Bath, LR, EIK $2000 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. No smoking/Pets. Available Now (201)892-8352 23W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 3
BR’s, 2 Baths, LR, Kitchen $2700 + 1 months
security Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking Availabe December 1st (201)230-9706 22W03
KEARNY 563 Chestnut Street. 3 bedroom, 1 bath, Kitchen, LR, DR. Central Air. Utilities Seperate. W/D in basement. $2,500/MTH Available Now. (973)558-8967 22W03
KEARNY 2nd floor Modern 2 family home. 2 BR’s, Large Kitchen, LR, 1 Bath. Stove & Refrigerator. $2100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking Available Now or November 1st (201)955-2463 22W03
KEARNY 1st FL 3 BR Apt, EIK, LR, DR,Garage, DWY, Wash/Dryer, Yard, Quiet Area , Near PATH, $3200 + 1.5 mos security, Utilities separate. no pets , no smoking. Avail Now Call & Leave msg @ 551-225-1541 22W03
KEARNY New construction 3 BR’s, 2 Bath’s, located Central Kearny $2900 + 1.5 months security. Separate utilities By Appt only, Available Now (201)674-1473. Ask for Max 22W03
KEARNY Newly renovated 2nd floor, 2 BR’s, 1 Bath, LR, Kitchen with New appliances $2500 + 1 months security , Utilities separate, No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)6795882 23W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2
BR’s, LR, EIK $1900 + 1 months security Utilities separate, Includes 1 Parking space. No Pets/Smoking, Available November 1st (201)726-8516 23W03
KEARNY 1st Floor 40 Highland Ave 2 BR’s, LR, EIK 1.5 months security, Utilities separate,credit required No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)998-0509 23W03
KEARNY 1st floor, 2
BR’s, LR, DR, Kitchen & 1 Bath No Pets/Smoking Available November 1st (201)923-7611 22W03
BELLEVILLE Private entrance, Utilities included. Shared Bathroom. Require 1 month Security. No Smoking. No pets. Available Now Call Maria (973) 7597077 21W03
KEARNY Clean, No kitchen, $600 + 1 month security. Perfect for single, responsible person No smoking/ pets Available November 1st (201)667-1733 23W01
N.NEWARK Forest Hill section. $750 + 1 months security. Utilities included. Shared Bath, No Kitchen. Perfect for single, responsible person. No smoking (973) 752-6877 23W03
1st floor 2 Separate units 2 BR’s, LR, EIK Unit 1 has Fireplace $2550 Unit 2 Walk-in closet 2 Baths $2700 + 1.5 months security Utilities included 2nd floor 2 BR’s, 1 Baths , LR, EIK, Attic storage & Laundry $2550 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate. Small pets allowed in both. No smoking, Available now (347)599-8473 or (617)516-3258 21W03
KEARNY FURNISHED ROOM in a rooming House In a residential area Share bath and shower with others. Street Parking, Other things to note, Overnight guests are not allowed. Gentleman Preferred . No smoking No pets. Only serious inquiries 1 month security deposit. Good credit Rating. For application please Call (718) 7817612 22W03
N.NEWARK Forest Hill area 1st Floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK $2,450/mth Utilities Separate Street Parking available No Pets/Smoking Available Now (973)493-3614 or (973)752-6877 23W03
BELLEVILLE Newly renovated 1 family house, 3 BR’s, Open concept LR & Kitchen, 1.5 Bathrooms, Finished basement, driveway and yard $4000 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate, Close to Schools & Transportation No Pets/smoking, Available November 1st (201)463-3703 21W03
KEARNY Newly renovated 2 BR. 1 Bath. Nice sized kitchen. Lg LR. $2,300/mth plus 1.5 mth security. Utilities seperate. No Pets/Smoking. Available Nov 1st (201)232-9319 23W01
NUTLEY Full renovated
1 Family, 3 BR, 3 Bath plus Den/Office with renovated kitchen and new appliances. Finished attic and basement. Access to driveway and yard. $4,800. Utilities are separate. No Pets/Smoking. Willing to offer a short term lease 201-693-3480. 23W03
Part-Time Fire Protection Subcode Official
The Town of Kearny is seeking a licensed Fire Protection Subcode Official to administer and enforce the fire protection subcode of the NJ Uniform Construction Code. The successful candidate will review and approve plans, inspect construction projects, and ensure compliance with state regulations.
Full job description can be found at https://info.csc.nj.gov/jobspec/05013.htm
Requirements:
Valid NJ Fire Protection Subcode Official license issued by the NJ Department of Community Affairs. Valid Fire Protection Inspector license (RCS, ICS, or HHS, depending on class of structure).
NJ Driver’s License may be required if necessary to perform job duties.
This is a part-time position, 24.5 hours per week, with an hourly rate of $32.19 – $41.97 Application available at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ Applications and resumes must be submitted by or before November 1, 2025, to the Personnel Department at 410 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032.
The Town of Kearny is an equal opportunity employer 23W03
Collection System Supervisor –Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority, Hudson County
Prof. Office Space GREAT LOCATION! Parking lot. $525 per month includes Utilities. Visible from Rt. 3, Professional Office building. Men and Ladies room cleaned 3x weekly. Call Bill Abbott (201)906-6847 22W03
KMUA is seeking a Collection System Supervisor for the Authorities five pump stations, approximately 9 miles of gravity sewer, and 3 miles of force mains. Will report directly, and function under the supervision of the Executive Director. Oversee, Plan, and Assist with daily operation, process changes, maintenance, repairs, inspections, reports, and recordkeeping. Ability to troubleshoot and identify operational failures. Oversees, trains, and works with the operational staff on operations, maintenance, collections systems, and other KMUA functions including jetting, vacuum cleaning, CCTV inspection, street sweeping, and snow removal. Assists with preparing work schedules and equipment maintenance protocols, coverage for emergency call outs, and personnel matters. Required to be on-call and available for emergencies including weekends/holidays. Intermediate computer skills are required (MS Office). Requires at least 4 years’ experience in pump station & collections operations and maintenance with 1 year of lead experience preferred. NJDEP C-1 License Required (C-2 Preferred), High School Diploma, and NJ CDL Class B w/Tanker required or ability to obtain.
Salary: $70,000 - 85,000 -
Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-3pm
A full job description and employment application can be found at https://www.kearnynj.org/kmua-links-notices/ under Employment Opportunities. Resumes should be emailed to jquinones@kmua.org 23W04
BELLEVILLE
BELLEVILLE
SIDING
B&A ROOFING
High quality job at a affordable price Specialize in Shingles, Flat Roofs, New & repair siding, gutters, Tree Removal and windows FREE ESTIMATES (201)719-3074 (201)800-2696
Licensed & Insured 20W06
ERICK ROOFING
Siding
Gutters Window Repairs (973) 343-1167 (800) 322-1019
www.erickconstructioninc.net
Free estimates • Fully insured Lic#13VH04302300 48W52
HOME IMPROVEMENT
CLASSIFIEDS
EMPLOYMENT/
HELP WANTED
Discounts (201) 893-0656 Lic. #13VH02536200 22W06
LACA CORP
•Paint • Powerwash and more
•Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002 29W52
LANDSCAPING
& DESIGN
Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC *Fall Clean up *Snow Removal *Clean-up, *Lawn Maintenance *Top soil *Mulch Free Estimate (201) 438-3991 23W04
Cost Estimator at Grand Supercenter Inc (Lyndhurst, NJ) BA in BA, Acct, or Econ & 6mo exp in fin’l or acctg rltd position. Consult w/ customers & vendors to formulate estimates & resolve issues; Confer w/ procurement, logistics & HR Dept to estimate cost of each step of purchasing; Prep cost of imported groceries & other necessary docs; Set up cost systms. Salary: $58,843. Email res to youngjae. kim@hmart.com 23W01
Wanted Driver/Warehouse, mature Individual for Foodservice CO in Totowa, NJ must posses good driving record. Salary plus Bonus. Bi-lingual a plus. Call for interview (973)754-9775 21W03
GARAGE & PARKING SPACE FOR RENT
KEARNY
Parking for rent 352 Belgrove Dr. $100 per. month (973)519-0311 22W03
N.ARLINGTON
Garage for rent for storage only with shelves. Size is 20X20. Close to Queen of Peace and Ridge Rd. $200/mth (201)600-1211. 23W03
N.ARLINGTON
1 Car Garage for rent with remote, 22 x 10 $230 + 1 month security Call (973)517-1342 23W03
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 10/16/25, downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Maintenance Structural Steel and Aluminum Repair Contract, North –2026, Various Locations, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Union and Warren (Including and North of Route 57) Counties 100% State Funded DP No: 26428
Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 (P.L 1975, c. 127); N.J.A.C. 17:27.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.19, contractors must provide a Certification and Disclosure of Political Contribution Form prior to contract award.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid.
Plans, specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site.
Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856
Phone: 973-601-6690
One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Phone: 856-486-6623
New Jersey Department of Transportation Division of Procurement
Bureau of Construction Services 1035 Parkway Avenue PO Box 600 Trenton, NJ 08625
$79.50 10/01/25, 10/08/25 & 10/15/25)
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 10/23/25, downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Maintenance Fence Repair Contract, North - 2026, Various Locations, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Union and Warren (Including and North of Route 57) Counties 100% State Funded
DP No: 26448
Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 (P.L 1975, c. 127); N.J.A.C. 17:27.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.19, contractors must provide a Certification and Disclosure of Political Contribution Form prior to contract award.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid.
Plans, specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Phone: 973-601-6690 Phone: 856-486-6623
New Jersey Department of Transportation Division of Procurement Bureau of Construction Services 1035 Parkway Avenue PO Box 600 Trenton, NJ 08625 ($96.00 10/08, 10/15 & 10/22)
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 10/28/25 downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Re-Advertisement Drainage Restoration Contract, North – 2025, I-78 and I-80, Bergen, Essex, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Union, and Warren Counties
Federal Project No: D00S(966) DP No: 25468
Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Specifically, the contractor, sub recipient or subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this contract. The contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 26 in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy as the recipient deems appropriate.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor, Division of Wage and hour Compliance at the time of bid.
The Department, in accordance with Title VI Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252 U.S.C., 49 C.F.R., Parts 21 and 23 issued pursuant to such Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 will afford minority business enterprises full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not discriminate against any bidder on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap in the project award. Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, any addenda to the specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our various Design Field Offices at the following locations:
200 Stierli Court One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 Phone: 973-601-6690 Phone: 856-486-6623
New Jersey Department of Transportation Division of Procurement Bureau of Construction Services 1035 Parkway Avenue PO Box 600 Trenton, NJ 08625
($121.50 10/08,10/15 & 10/22)
Town of Kearny, Zoning Board of Adjustment hereby notices that the following resolution was adopted at a regular meeting of the Kearny Zoning Board of Adjustment held 10-02-25: #2025.19 – Variance appl., 593-597 Belgrove Drive, Owner/Applicant: Thiele Family Properties, LLC., To construct an 18’-6” x 36’-0” exterior deck on the second level of the rear one-story portion of the building. Approved. By: Jennifer Diaz, Board Secretary ($15.00 Online 10/08/25)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: The following self-storage unit contents containing tools other personal goods will be sold via online public auction to satisfy a lien on Tuesday 11/4/2025 at 8 am. Unit H6, Fusion Connect LLC. Located at 35 O’Brien St Kearny NJ 07032 Auction will take place online at: www.storagetreasures.com. ($20.00 10/15/25 & 10/22/25)
Notice of Meeting
Please take note that the Hudson County Workforce Development Board will hold a meeting via Zoom on Friday, October 17, 2025. At 10:00 a.m. Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88929745277?pwd=FUdQJArVu1AavrmIgDpw3WNexUr2kZ.1
Meeting ID: 889 2974 5277
Passcode: 539698 Dial in 929-436-2866
Meeting ID: 889 2974 5277
Two local schools will benefit from new Guy grant
Hudson County Executive Craig Guy and the Hudson County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs | Tourism Development awarded Sports in Education Program grants to 28 schools in six Hudson County municipalities for the 2025-2026 school year — two are in West Hudson.
This is the first full year of the program, after a successful pilot last year that included the participation of seven schools and over 250 student athletes.
Locally, Lincoln Middle School in Kearny and Lincoln Elementary School in Harrison were picked.
Guy kicked off the 2025 Hudson County Sports in Education
ATHLETE
Continued from page 9
Friday night. Betancourt’s breakout game started with a 67-yard rushing touchdown in the first quarter.
Leading 14-6 in the second half, Betancourt again used that sprinter’s speed to help Kearny pull away, first breaking free for a 40yard TD run, followed by a 27-yard touchdown to make it 28-6.
Program last week with a webinar with participating schools.
“I’m proud of the opportunities this grant programs offers our students and our schools — increasing physical education curricula and enhancing sports learning,” Guy said.
This county-funded program enables schools to work with sports organizations to offer sports instruction and education to students throughout Hudson County.
Coaches will work closely with the educators in the schools to enhance physical and learning opportunities embedded into the standard kindergarten through eighth-grade curriculum.
Performances like Friday show how far Betancourt has come and with more than a year left in his high school career, the belief is there that Betancourt is just scratching the surface of what he’s capable of on the field.
“There definitely is another level for him to go to. I truly believe that,” Policano said. “He’s gotten a taste of success and he wants to do better. I think we are just kind of scratching the surface with him because his confidence level is there.”
ARSON
Continued from Page 4
On Sept. 30, 2025, at approximately 8:25 a.m., the Lyndhurst Police and Fire departments responded to a fire at 522 Valley Brook Ave. Upon arrival, first responders observed fire in the common stairwell of the multi-family apartment building.
Arriving police officers — first arriving Officer Michael Walker, current 2nd Assistant Fire Chief; Lt. Steve Passamano, former fire chief; and Capt. Paul Haggerty, also a fire chief — made entry through the thick smoke to remove Pluchino after knocking down.
Following fire suppression
ROCK
Continued from Page 1
Hamilton School, chimed in with his thoughts.
“My first experience with Rock Your School was amazing. It was fantastic to see the students and staff have such a good time participating,” he said. “A huge shout-out to all the teachers and staff who put the day together. It was a great day to be a Hamilton Hawk.”
Rock Your School has become a cherished tradition at Hamilton School, setting a positive and energetic tone for the school year. It’s a day students and staff alike look forward to — proving that at Hamilton School, learning really does rock.
The Observer’s office is open Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. & Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Be sure to stop by for a visit or call (201) 991-1600.
efforts by Lyndhurst firefighters and police, the Lyndhurst FD notified the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Squad.
Detectives from the Arson Squad, along with investigators from the Bergen County Arson Task Force, responded to the scene and initiated a joint investigation with the Lyndhurst Police Department. The investigation revealed Pluchino, the resident removed by the responding police officers, intentionally set fire to cardboard, along with other debris,
POLICE BEAT
in the common stairwell of 522 Valley Brook Ave.
As a result of the investigation, Pluchino was charged with second-degree aggravated arson, fourth-degree creating a risk of widespread injury or damage, fourth-degree criminal mischief and fourth-degree failure to take responsible measure to put out, control, or report a fire.
Pluchino was remanded
to the Bergen County Jail, pending his first appearance in Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack.
Meanwhile, it appears the entire incident was livestreamed on Facebook.
The video appears on a Facebook page bearing Pluchino’s name and is about 24 minutes in length. As the video begins, he speaks (mumbles) to the camera at first and then, for about 10 minutes, listens to loud music, including songs by DMX and 50 Cent. Moments later, he is seen lighting
cardboard and dropping it in or close to a large backpack.
For a few minutes, smoke alarms rang out and Lyndhurst police could be seen entering the apartment with fire extinguishers. A few minutes later, police could be seen removing Pluchino from the apartment while the fire was being knocked down.
“Our hope is that the judicial system serves Pluchino by mandating the appropriate treatment to rehabilitate him from continuing this dangerous behavior,” Haggerty said.
-Rami Alrabaa
