Dec. 18, 2013 Edition of The Observer by The Observer Newspaper

December 18, 2013 • www.theobserver.com • Vol CXXVI, No. 30

COVERING: BELLEVILLE • BLOOMFIELD

Wanted: watchful neighbors

• EAST NEWARK • HARRISON • KEARNY • LYNDHURST • NORTH ARLINGTON • NUTLEY

Abated apartments approved

By Karen Zautyk Observer Correspondent NUTLEY – The blue-and-white “Neighborhood Watch” signs have been a part of the Nutley streetscape for years, but your correspondent must plead ignorance as to what exactly the program entailed. And who participated. And how it worked. I am certain I am not alone in this, especially considering the influx of residents drawn to the community by large new apartment complexes, particularly on the east side of town. The problem of such complexes--be they rental or condos--in any community, is the anonymity they can foster. Residents may nod to each other, and even know some neighbors’ names, but that sense of “neighborliness” more common on streets of one or two-family homes takes longer to develop, if it develops at all. Still, despite growth and changes in demographics, Nutley has avoided that bane of other New Jersey towns which have devolved to “bedroom communities.” Nutley remains friendly and familyoriented and welcoming to newcomers, and that has much to do not only with its various clubs and organizations, but see WATCH page

Rendering courtesy Russo Development Co.

An architect’s perspective of Schuyler Crossing.

By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent KEARNY – earny took steps this month to award its first-ever tax abatement for a non-senior residential development when the governing body voted to introduce an ordinance for a 30-year PILOT (payment in

lieu of taxation) for Schuyler Crossing at 350 Bergen Ave., off Schuyler Ave. The mayor and Town Council will likely make it official when they hold a public hearing on the proposed agreement at their next meeting on Dec. 23 at 7 p.m. in the council chambers. Developer Ed Russo, of Carlstadt, who recently

completed a new residential complex in Lyndhurst and has another in process in Harrison, has already applied for permits to build the foundation for the 150-unit Kearny project. Under the proposed agreement, Russo would pay the town an annual service charge, beginning with $375,000 (calculated as 10% of

Getting serious about separating By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent

EAST NEWARK – East Newark school officials, who’ve been doing a lot of talking about a permanent “recess” for borough students who attend Harrison High, have taken a big step to try to

make that happen. On Monday night, the borough Board of Education voted 7-0 to put their money where their mouth is by hiring a law firm to carry out the separation plan. The board appointed Porzio, Bromberg & Newman of Morristown as special counsel

for an amount not to exceed $44,000 “for the purpose of facilitating a feasibility study regarding its sendingreceiving relationship with the Harrison Board of Education” for “all appropriate action” in connection with that goal. That action could mean that after completing eighth grade

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the annual gross rents) with yearly adjustments pegged to inflation and the state budget cap; plus an annual administrative fee of $2,500; and a one-time only $150,000 contribution to the town’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund for the rehabilitation of existing dwellings in Kearny. see RUSSO page

at East Newark Public School, borough kids would go to Kearny High School, instead of Harrison High, where they’ve gone, essentially, since the neighboring communities have existed. But, of late, the East Newark see STUDY page

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Mack to develop Belleville’s Roche site By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent West Hudson Publishing Company’s Fastest Growing Free Weekly Newspaper Established 1887 Family Owned & Operated

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BELLEVILLE – firm known to locals has been picked to build on the vacant Roche pharmaceuticals property in Belleville but, beyond that, little is known on what the future holds for the site. On Dec. 10, Mayor Raymond Kimble and the Belleville Township Council voted unanimously to designate David A. Mack Properties LLC of Southport, Conn., as redeveloper of the 18-acre Roche Diagnostic tract, fronting on Franklin Ave. and just north of Clara Maass Medical Center. Kimble said the Mack real estate company – which previously built the strip mall in the township’s Silver Lake area, at Franklin St. and Bloomfield Ave. – has developed retail, commercial and residential properties. Joe Burdette, a Florida attorney who has represented Mack in connection with Sunshine State projects, said that his former client has partnered with other companies in developing the 250-room Sandpearl Resort & Spa and 202-unit Belle Harbor condominiums, both in Clearwater. “Dave’s a fine human being,” said Burdette, “which, in the kind of business he’s in, is hard to find. He’s as good as it gets.” About a year ago, the Belleville Planning Board recommended that the township designate the property as an area in need of redevelopment and in July 2013 the governing body adopted a redevelopment plan for the site which set out conceptual uses such as medical offices,

medical research, related health uses and housing – but excluding hospitals and ambulatory care centers at the request of neighboring Clara Maass. In selecting the Mack firm, the township resolution noted, “the Governing Body of the Township of Belleville has elected to serve as the Redevelopment Entity responsible for the implementation of the Redevelopment Plan and carrying out the Redevelopment Project con-

require an environmental cleanup “and [Roche] and David A. Mack Properties LLC have engaged in preliminary discussions [on that matter] …,” the resolution says. And, as a result of those discussions, the resolution says that Roche “believes that [Mack] would be an acceptable redeveloper of the property, capable of adhering to the Redevelopment Plan and providing acceptable assurances to both Roche

Observer file photo

The Roche property in Belleville.

templated therein,” rather than soliciting proposals from prospective developers. Although the property remains in Roche’s hands, the resolution says that the township “has engaged with the owner in negotiations relating to the possible transfer of title … to the township and the resolution of property tax issues and environmental remediation issues.” Because the property was previously occupied by a copper mill and, later, a soap factory, before Roche took possession, the site will

and the Township that both current necessary remediation and downstream environmental liability would be appropriately addressed by [Mack] including … an NJDEP approved transfer and assumption of environmental liability agreement ….” Now, the resolution says, Belleville and Mack have 90 days to negotiate a redeveloper agreement. Belleville officials have offered no clues what the developer has in mind for the property although one

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council member said that it’s unlikely the land would be used for residential purposes. Asked when he expected the property to be conveyed to the township, Kimble said: “We’re still in the waiting process with Roche. We know they’re comfortable with the developer we’ve named.” Roche Diagnostic spokesman Bob Purcell would offer no further details on what will be happening with the property. Meanwhile, in other infrastructure news, the governing body last Tuesday voted to introduce a bond ordinance that would, among other things, appropriate $643,000 to replace 90 street lights on Washington Ave., the township’s main shopping district, between Greylock Parkway and Mill St., as part of the long-planned streetscape improvement. The new lantern-style lights will be designed to be fitted with an “arm” that will illuminate sidewalks and will put out three times the light now being provided by the existing street lights, according to Councilman Michael Nicosia. The bond money will also pay for engineer costs associated with the project and for what Nicosia described as a “3D” computer mapping of the area, showing the layers of street, curbs, buildings, etc., so that if and when plans for future development are filed, it will be easier to ensure compliance with mandated design criteria. Nicosia said the street light upgrade was among a series of recommendations contained in a state Dept. of see ROCHE page

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Don’t live here? it could cost you to park By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent

It got to the point, said Police Chief Anthony Monteiro, “we had people driving leased cars coming into the borough EAST NEWARK – who’d come into headquarters ith curbside parking every two weeks to ask for a at a premium in the courtesy parking sticker.” tiny borough, which Currently, the chief said, ranks next to last among New there are seven people logged Jersey’s 566 municipalities on the Police Department’s in total area, East Newark is “courtesy’’ parking list. On looking to better control the each shift, he said, officers will use of available spots. make a list of those vehicles’ To that end, the mayor and plate numbers so when they’re Borough Council voted Nov. out on patrol, they can check 13 to introduce an ordinance those cars without resident requiring a “non-resident parking stickers against that owner/lessee of a [passenger] list, although he said, there vehicle” to pay an annual $50 could well be more the departfee for a parking permit. ment hasn’t yet caught up Mayor Joseph Smith said with. the plan is a logical outcome Starting early next year, of how desperate the parking however, after the ordinance situation has become in East takes effect, these folks can Newark and in its bordering apply for a “non-resident” town, Harrison. Some years back, Smith said, parking decal to place in their vehicles for easy checking by Harrison started a two-hour weekday parking limitation for police. Municipal employees and out-of-town motorists near the employees of East Newark’s PATH station, then expanded public school who commute to that restriction to half the town, then to the entire town, the borough from out of town will be exempt from paying and, as a result, Smith said, the yearly parking fee, accordthere was a parking spillover ing to Smith. into East Newark. Drivers who live in the Even some Kearny resiborough, meanwhile, can dents, at times, encroach into continue to apply for or renew the borough, parking on John St. near the railroad tracks, for example, Smith said. East Newark adopted its own two-hour parking limit for non-residents “but we started getting a lot of people who were moving here and leasing cars plus kids originally from here going to college out of state driving back here with a car registered somewhere else,” Smith said.

weeks, holidays and weekends included.” There is no fee for a resident or visitor permit. The borough will begin supplying the new “non-resident parking permit” to owners or lessees of non-commercial vehicles to applicants who can provide the following: • A valid driver’s license for the vehicle. • A valid motor vehicle registration for the vehicle. • A valid motor vehicle insurance card for the vehicle. • A current utility bill and lease exhibiting the applicant’s name and temporary East Newark address or in the case of a month-to-month renter, a landlord’s affidavit attesting to the residency of the applicant in lieu of a lease. • For someone employed by a business in the borough,

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a valid employment ID and/ or pay stub, along with the appropriate vehicle documentation. A parking permit, once granted, must be displayed on the vehicle’s rear view mirror facing the front windshield, driver’s side or as so directed by the Police Department. The borough will revoke a parking sticker if a vehicle no longer qualifies per the ordinance or if transferred to a car other than the one so designated per the sticker application or if the registration number differs from the number on the application. Any vehicle parked in violation of the ordinance – which can include a revoked or expired sticker – will be subject to a municipal court fine of $35.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Candles ignited apartment fire, official says By Karen Zautyk Observer Correspondent north arlingtonAn early morning fire, apparently ignited by candles, left two apartments in

Riverview Gardens complex “uninhabitable” last Wednesday, authorities reported. North Arlington Assistant Fire Chief MarkCunningham said the blaze broke out about 7 a.m. in a ground-floor

unit on Garden Terrace just off the Belleville Pike. It is believed to have started in the dining room, where religious candles had been burning on a table. The tenants -- a husband, wife and young

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Melted shutters and blackened brick are testimony to Dec. 11 fire that displaced two families.

child -- were safely evacuated, as was a family of four in the second-floor apartment of the two-story wood-andbrick structure. No injuries were reported, but both families have been displaced, authorities said. “We evacuated other apartments in the area” as a precaution, Cunningham noted. The North Arlington Fire Department was assisted at the scene by firefighters from Kearny and Lyndhurst. The Rutherford and East Rutherford FDs provided stand-by

coverage to the borough. The fire was declared under control within 45 minutes, but firefighters remained at the complex until 9:45 a.m.The blaze forced closure of the Belleville Pike from Ridge Road several blocks eastward, causing extensive traffic delays. The ground-floor apartment reportedly sustained “substantial” fire damage, and there was heavy smoke damage to the second floor. Cunningham described both units as uninhabitable.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

New public duties for ex-councilman By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent NORTH ARLINGTON – emocrat Peter Norcia may have lost his bid to reclaim his seat on the Borough Council in last month’s election but the Dems majority made it up to him by voting Dec. 12 to appoint him as the borough’s public works superintendent. The tally went along party lines: Democrats Al Granell, Mark Yampaglia and Tom Zammatore voted for the measure, Republicans Rich Hughes, Joe Bianchi and newly-elected Dan Pronti (who took Norcia’s seat) voted against it, and Mayor Peter Massa, a Democrat, voted “yes” to break the tie. As councilman, Norcia drew a yearly salary of about $7,300 but in his new job, he’ll earn 10 times as much at $79,000. The Democrats noted that the DPW pay scale is actually about $24,000 less than what Norcia’s predecessor, Jim McCabe, was making. Plus, they said, Norcia won’t be taking any medical benefits, which means the borough will be “saving another $20,000 for taxpayers.” McCabe is retiring from the DPW job Dec. 31 and Norcia will start work on New Year’s Day. Mayor Peter Massa defended the hiring, pointing to Norcia’s prior experience managing 300 employees and building operations at AT&T Worldwide’s 2.7 million square feet Basking Ridge headquarters, plus

more than a decade with ISS Worldwide Corp. as a facility manager. “I think the borough is fortunate to have a person of Mr. Norcia’s background and skill level to run the day to day operations of our public works department,” Massa said. “I’m sure he’s up to the task and I expect to see good results from the department under his supervision.”

process. There were 19 who applied, including four from the current DPW, all qualified. How many were interviewed? We felt it was a political award.” Although the state Civil Service Commission lists the job title, superintendent of public works, as an “unclassified” position – meaning that no competitive exam is

required – Hughes said his understanding is that under Civil Service rules, “there are several classes you have to take to continue in that position” that would lead to securing certification as a Certified Public Works Manager. As for the savings that the Democrats said would be realized from Norcia’s

lower rate of pay (McCabe is currently earning about $100,000 after 35 years with the borough), Hughes shrugged that off, saying that Norcia’s salary “is what Jim McCabe was making after 25 years [with the borough].” Another issue that rankled Hughes was a provision in see NORCIA page

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But Hughes told The Observer that Norcia’s work experience, however impressive it may sound, “is not the same as public works.” (As DPW boss, Norcia will supervise a department with nine employees responsible for maintenance of streets, shade trees, public buildings, parks and playgrounds, and storm and sanitary sewer lines.) Moreover, Hughes said, Republicans opposed Norcia’s hiring because “we did not feel it was an open

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thoughts&views THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

The contents of letters do not reflect the opinion of The Observer staff. Letters must be kept to a maximum of 250 words. Any letters that exceed the maximum will be edited, at the discretion of the publisher, who reserves the right at any time to reject or edit the letters for space. Letters must include the writer’s name, address, and telephone number for verification purposes. The deadline for letters is Thursday at 5 p.m. Any letters that arrive after deadline will not be considered for the upcoming publication. Letters can be sent by e-mail to publisher@theobserver.com or mailed to 39 Seeley Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032. Anonymous letters will not be published under any circumstances.

Making a list, checking it twice N

ow that the holiday shopping season is in full ferocity, we have been learning about all those “must-have” things we never knew we needed. They begin appearing in commercials and on store shelves in November and then magically disappear in January, sometimes never to be seen or heard of again. Occasionally, one has a longer shelf life. Such as the Snuggie, the blanket with sleeves, which has been around for a few years now, though I have yet to see a single ad for it this year. Maybe I’ve just been lucky. I admit it. I often fall victim to the hype. Last year, I bought a pair of microwavable slippers. This year, I have already invested in Cat’s Meow. (“Peeka-boo wand mimics a scurrying mouse.” “Hours of fun!”) It will be under the tree for the felines, but somehow I think it will keep me more entertained than it will them. There are certain things I will never buy. Such as the Essential Doomsday Survival Kit. This includes – among many, many other things -- a portable stove, an emergency food supply (enough for one person for two weeks or two people for one week, and

then I guess you have to start shooting squirrels), sleeping bag, flashlight, bandages, a deck of cards. (If you’re the last person left alive, there’s always Solitaire.) This is only a partial list. The kit, originally priced at $1,199.99, has been marked down to $199.99. Which leaves me wondering if these kits are not left over from December 2012, when the Mayan Doomsday failed to materialize. I will also not invest money in the Touch-Free Soap Dispenser. The need for which I cannot comprehend. Supposedly, it keeps your hands from getting all germy. But, think about it. After you touch a normal soap dispenser, you WASH your hands, right? You do not then reach over and touch the dispenser again, right? So what’s point? Unless you suffer from OCD. (The touch-free soap dispenser reminds me of the washing-machine cleanser some detergent company has been touting. A WASHING machine gets WASHED every time you use it. Why would it need to be washed again separately?) Also new on the shelves this year is Perfect Polly. “Lifelike Bird Gives the Joy of a Pet Without the Work!” This is a bargain at $10.

Motion-activated it “comes to life whenever you walk in the room!” Its head turns, its feathers fluff, and it chirps. “And unlike real birds, you can turn Perfect Polly off with just the touch of a button.” (Thanks for clarifying the lack of buttons on real birds.) Also: “This life-sized bird features details so realistic, only you will know it’s not real!” Really? I am tempted to get one just because it is cute, but I fear it could be hazardous to my live pets. If I brought a Perfect Polly into my home, the cats would die laughing. And Santa as already been notified that if a Justin Bieber Singing Toothbrush is in my holiday stocking, there will be no more milk and cookies. Ever. However, this year also has brought a product without which I cannot do. I have already requested this from more than one person, because I would like a menagerie. I am talking about the Stuffie. This is a large, plush animal designed for children, but it is more than a toy. It has numerous secret pockets designed to hold kiddies’ treasures. In my case, the Stuffie will hold clutter. Visitors are coming and you

Don’t forget to check www.theobserver.com for news that didn’t make it into this week’s paper

WE’VE GOT MAIL The event took place on Monday, Dec. 9. One-hundred-fifty people attended To the editor: our pizza tasting contest. The Woman’s Club of Lynd- Four pizzerias donated 10 pies hurst would like to extend each. Everyone received a our heartfelt thanks to the fol- ballot and a slice of pie from lowing pizzerias for their par- each pizzeria. No one knew ticipation in our recent pizza who made what pie. The pies tasting contest fundraiser. were numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4.

have no time to clean up? Just grab a Stuffie and pack it with debris. Most of my clutter is paper, so Stuffies are perfect. One for newspaper clippings, one for half-used notebooks, one for scraps of paper with phone numbers and other important info. (Flashback to “All the President’s Men”: Bernstein,

just back from an interview, is emptying his pockets of paper napkins, old receipts, other scraps. Woodward: “Where are your notes?” Bernstein: “These ARE my notes!”) I am hoping one of the Stuffies I get will be a bird. That one will be for bills. –Karen Zautyk

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KUDOS TO ALL THE PIE MAKERS! The participating pizzerias were Francesca’s, 119 Valleybrook Ave.; Lyndhurst Pizzeria, 29 Ridge Rd.; Pizza Lino, 139 Ridge Rd. and Turano’s Pizzeria, 609 Stuyvesant Ave. The results are in and the winner of the best tasting pizza in Lyndhurst for 2014 is Lyndhurst Pizzeria.

They will be presented with a banner claiming their victory for 2014, which will be displayed in their storefront window. We sincerely want to thank all the stores that donated and urge townspeople to patronize these generous establishments to show

gratitude for taking part in a community organization to raise funds for our charitable organizations. Thank you also to everyone who purchased a ticket to attend. The Woman’s Club of Lyndhurst

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Robbers sought by cops EAST NEWARK-

n the wake of a recent street robbery in the borough, and with more people on the street for holiday visits and shopping, East Newark Police Chief Anthony Monteiro cautioned residents to stay alert to avoid possible threats. Last Thursday night, Monteiro said that three Newark women drove into the parking lot of the PicNic Restaurant on Grant Ave., at about 8:30 p.m., and as they got out, they were approached by two men – both wearing hoodies – who, police say, had followed them into the lot in their vehicle. Monteiro said one of the pair displayed a silver object and the other, a black object. Both objects were believed to be weapons, he said. The men grabbed the women’s purses, returned to their car and sped away south on Grant Ave. in what was described to police as a

black colored vehicle, Monteiro said. The victims then ran inside the restaurant to tell the manager what had just happened and police were then called to the scene, Monteiro said. Police are reviewing video collected from borough street cameras in hopes of getting more clues to help track the robbers, the chief said. “At this time, the investigation is pending and my department is working very diligently to find justice for the victims and prevent a similar occurrence from happening in our community,” Monteiro said. “Fortunately, no one was injured; however, it does bring to our attention the importance of sharing with you what occurred and how you can keep yourself from becoming a victim.” Monteiro offered these safety tips: 1.Be alert to your surroundings, especially when walking outdoors during the evening.

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2.When possible, walk with a group of friends. Should you ever feel that your safety is at risk, call for an officer’s assistance. 3.When driving, should you notice a vehicle following you for a long period of time, call 9-1-1 or drive to the nearest police station. 4.If walking at nighttime, stay off your cell phone but keep it at hand in case you need to dial 9-1-1. 5.If possible, avoid carrying money or valuables with you. 6.Check your alleyways and always lock the doors to your home behind you. 7.Don’t leave your vehicle running and unattended. 8.Change your walking routine regularly and take well-lit areas when possible. 9.Never approach a vehicle whose occupants you don’t know. 10.Always maintain your distance from strangers asking you questions. – Ron Leir

Help Domino find a home

Domino (ID#88527), a domestic, short hair-black and white, senior male cat, waits for a loving forever home at the Bergen County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, 100 United Lane, Teterboro. Domino is about age 8, very affectionate and loves to be petted. When Domino is held he will

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cuddle into you. The shelter advises Domino would not like a home with other cats since he does not like other cats at the shelter. For more information, call 201-229-4600. Hours for adoption are 1 to 5 p.m. every day except Monday. The shelter is open Thursdays from 1 to 7:30 p.m. Many other adoptable animals that can be seen at the shelter’s website http://www.petfinder.com/ shelters/NJ29.html. Many local towns have a Patch website where the shelter’s animals are featured.The shelter also has a page on Facebook. Please visit and “like” the Bergen County Animal Shelter.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

FEMA funding to fix pump station kearny-

he Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority has been awarded a $3,040,821 federal grant to help repair equipment damaged by Superstorm Sandy, it was announced Dec. 12 by the office of Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-9th District). The money, allocated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as provided un-

der Section 406 of the Stafford Act, will go for the repair of the KMUA’s Kearny Point pump station in South Kearny and will require a local 10% match of $378,691 to provide the full amount needed to facilitate the fix, according to Pascrell press aide Tom Pietrykoski. Kearny Mayor Alberto Santos said he’s confident that the KMUA has sufficient funds in its reserves to cover the local

share required for the Kearny Point pump project. In the wake of Sandy, flooding damaged the area now known as Kearny Point, including the Hudson County Jail, along with other county buildings along S. Hackensack Ave., and warehouses owned and operated by industries in the low-lying area.A press release from Pascrell’s office said the repair work “includes but is

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not limited to” repairs to a grit removal chamber, replacement of various damaged components of two pump channels, replacement of four pumps and replacement of a damaged concrete masonry unit wall between stairways of the pump station structure with reinforced concrete.Additionally, the release said, the funds will pay for temporary bypass pumping to allow for completion of repairs and for upgrades of a gas detection system and ventilation system that allows for at least 12 air changes per hour. Meanwhile, Santos said that the town is still waiting to hear from FEMA whether its application for additional funding

for other repairs to damaged pumps and infrastructure also wrecked by Sandy. “Even more than a year after Sandy made landfall, there is still evidence of this historic storm’s devastation,” said Pascrell. “Recovering from this type of destruction requires the full cooperation of local, state and federal resources. Utilities like the KMUA provide a critical service in protecting our environment and the public’s health, so their recovery must remain a priority. I will continue to fight to ensure our utilities have the resources they need to rebuild and be better prepared for future disasters.” -- Ron Leir

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Rookie cop recuperating from smash-up north arlignton-

borough police officer is recovering from injuries sustained after a single car crash on Schuyler Ave. on the evening of Nov. 26, officials said. According to several sources, the incident involved Officer Dave Balanta, who was a campus police officer at Kean University, Union, before being appointed to the North Arlington P.D. less than a year ago. Police Chief Louis Ghione said that the officer is currently in a rehabilitation center in Teaneck for treatment of his injuries. “He’s

expected to be out [of work] for an extended period of time,” the chief said. Ghione said the cause of the accident is being investigated by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office’s Accident Investigation Unit. Preliminary investigation has found “no mechanical flaws” in the patrol car driven by the officer, he said.“The car [a Ford Crown Victoria] was totaled,” the chief said. A press release issued by the North Arlington P.D. said the 32-year-old officer was responding to an emergency medical call at 9:40 p.m. when he “lost control of his

vehicle after hitting either a puddle or an oil patch in the roadway while heading southbound on Schuyler Ave.”At that point, the release said, “the officer’s vehicle slide sid ways, striking a utility police

by the driver’s side door. t”Subsequently, the release said, “the officer had to be extricated from the vehicle by the North Arlington [Volunteer] Fire Dept. and was stabilized at the scene by the

North Arlington Volunteer Emergency Squad.”The officer was transported to University Hospital in Newark “with multiple serious injuries,” the release said. – Ron Leir

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Liberty.” From l.: Mackey; Rachel Walters, Queen of Peace Elementary School eighthgrader, first place; Dakota Gomez, Queen of Peace High School ninth grader, second place; and Mark Vintayen, also ninth-grader, first place.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

KPD blotter: Wardrobe dysfunction An alleged serial shoplifter identified himself to police thanks to his penchant for wearing the same clothing during his Kmart outings, Kearny Police Chief John Dowie reported. Suspect Jhoan Moncala, 26, of Kearny, is said to have stolen more than $2,500 worth of video games over a period of five days, Dec. 3-7. KPD Officer Ben Wuelfing, called to the Passaic Ave. store Dec. 6 by security personnel, viewed store tapes and saw a “probable person of interest,” clad in a longsleeved black shirt. Det. Scott Traynor, reviewing Wuelfing’s report, also noted that the thief wore camouflage-patterned pants. At headquarters Dec. 7, a suspect arrested for alleged shoplifting that day was sitting in a cell, wearing, Traynor noted, a long-sleeved black shirt and camo pants. Under questioning, Moncala reportedly admitted to all five theft incidents and was

charged with five counts of shoplifting.

Other recent reports from the KPD blotter included the following:

with the MV offense and the warrant, Hernandez was charged with possession of false government documents.

Dec. 8 Officer Luis Moran, Dec. 7 responding to Kmart on Officer Cesar Negron was the report of a shoplifting, on patrol at Kearny and found the suspect to be in Oakwood Aves. at 11 a.m. possession of an insurance when his automatic licenseidentification card in the plate reader “hit” on a car ap- name of another individual, parently operated by someone police said. Anthony Taylor, with a suspended license. The 24, of East Orange, was squad car computer indicated charged with shoplifting the same driver had been arand theft of property lost or rested in Kearny on Nov. 27 mislaid. for the same offense. And, the officer confirmed, 57-year-old Sgt. John Becker, Jose Hernandez of Newark, supervising the KPD’s holiday also had an outstanding East mall initiative, was travelling Newark warrant, police said. between Walmart and the PasDuring a search incident saic Ave. district at 3:15 p.m., to an arrest on the warrant, when he spotted a car with an Hernandez reportedly was expired inspection sticker, ran found to be in possession its registration and found that of six driver’s licenses and the owner had a suspended a Pennsylvania firearms ID license, police said. card, with different names Becker stopped the car on “on virtually every docuHarrison Ave. and arrested ment,” Dowie reported. Along Kadya Washington, 37, of

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Jersey City, who reportedly also had outstanding warrants from Union City and Jersey City. Jersey City police were contacted to take her into their custody. At 5:15 p.m., Officer Jay Ward was writing a ticket for a vehicle blocking a fire hydrant on Windsor St. when he was approached by the operator, Thiago Silveira, 27, of Kearny, who asked what the cop was doing. Silveira ended up with more than a summons; he was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Hawthorne, police said. Officers Ben Wuelfing and Jack Corbett responded to a report of a street fight outside a bar on the 400 block of Kearny Ave. at 9:45 p.m. and arrived to find an injured 50-year-old Lyndhurst man. He admitted to being involved, police said, but was uncooperative when asked to identify the person who

inflicted the injury. The next day, Lt. Anthony Gouveia reviewed security videos from the area and saw that the victim had been hit with a brick. The detective developed a probable suspect and complaints may be forthcoming, Dowie said. Dec. 9 Officer John Fabula, investigating an auto accident near the intersection of Kearny Ave. and Grove St. at 3 p.m., took into custody one of the motorists, Marluce Rangel, 37, of Scranton, Pa., for driving with a suspended license -and on five outstanding warrants: two from West Orange and one each from Fairfield, Newark and Budd Lake, police reported. She was also charged with careless driving and driving while using a cell phone. At 7:45 p.m., Officer Leroy Bibbs, responded to Walmart, see KPD page

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

National award for Essex County Vo-Tech schools All four high schools in the Essex County Vocational Technical School District have been awarded Bronze Medal rankings by U.S. News & World Report magazine for being among the best high schools in the nation, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. has announced. It marks the first time that all the schools -- Bloomfield Tech, Newark Tech, North 13th St. School in Newark, and West Caldwell Tech -- have been named to the national list in the same year. According to the Dec. 10 announcement from the county executive’s office, a

Bronze Medal indicates the students have been performing better than the average student in their state. The magazine started by looking at language and math results for all students on each state’s high school proficiency tests. It then factored in the percentage of economically disadvantaged students enrolled at each school to identify the schools that were performing better than statistical expectations. Students at Bloomfield Tech scored 84% proficiency in math and 99% proficiency in language arts. Students at North 13th St.: 70% proficiency in math and

92% in language arts. Students at Essex County Newark Tech: 65% proficiency in math and 95% in language arts. Students at West Caldwell Tech: 55% proficiency in math and 85% in language arts. “We could not be any prouder of the way our students in the Essex County Vocational Technical School System are achieving,” DiVincenzo said, citing “the commitment and dedication of our students, parents and teachers.” “As a school district, our goals are to offer a challenging curriculum and a

supportive learning environment to maximize opportunities for our students and to ensure that they are well-prepared for college and careers,” he added. In addition to the recognition from U.S. News & World Report, the Essex Vocational Technical District boasts two schools that were named National Blue Ribbon Schools in the last four years: West Caldwell Tech in 2012 and Bloomfield Tech in 2009. Last month, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan visited West Caldwell Tech to talk with students, parents, teachers and administrators about the dramatic

Shaken or

News from Harrison Police blotter Dec. 11 At 9:30 p.m., police responded to a hit and run accident at the intersection of Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. and Harrison Ave. Police said the victim told them he was hit by a truck in the crosswalk. After getting a description of the vehicle as a silver pickup truck with Arkansas plates from the victim and a witness, police said they located a vehicle matching the description a few blocks away and arrested the driver, Christopher Gale, 31, of Arkansas, on a DWI charge.

that the pressure was fine and both men then scurried out. Later that day, police said, the occupant noticed that a safe containing $18,000 was missing from his bedroom. One of the intruders was described as a white man, between 5-feet-five and 5-feet-eight, thin, with a partial black hair growth on his face, wearing a black jacket, jeans and boots. The other man was listed as waring all black clothing, sneakers and black-colored hair. Both spoke English. At around 2:35 p.m., police received theft reports from Dec. 10 two occupants of an apartAt 9:32 p.m., police respond- ment building in the 300 ed to a residence in the 500 block of Harrison Ave., both block of Hamilton St. where, involving UPS deliveries. One they were told, two men posing resident told police he was as water department employexpecting a package and, upon ees had entered the residence entering the building entrance, under the pretense of checking saw a box, time-stamped at for leaks in the basement. After 12:38 p.m., lying on the floor, being let inside by the occuopen and its contents, valued pant, police said the occupant, at $710, removed. A second leaving the front door ajar, led resident reported that he also one of the men into the basereceived a package, delivered ment, where the “employee” at 12:45 p.m., which was left in banged on the pipes, opened a the building’s hallway, lying faucet to “check the pressure” open and its contents, valued and then said he had to call his at $552, missing. manager about that. Meanwhile, police said, the second Dec. 9 “employee” told the occupant At 7:39 a.m., a woman told

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improvement in student achievement at the school over the last 10 years. The Essex County Vocational Technical School District is New Jersey’s oldest and one of the largest VoTech school systems. Created in 1914, it provides academic and technical instruction for high school and adult students in the Essex County region. The district has an enrollment of about 2,200 and provides technical and academic opportunities in more than 25 career areas. For more information, call 973-4122069 or visit http://www. essextech.org/.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

RUSSO from Russo would also repave a section of Bergen Ave., up to the trestle train bridge, according to Mayor Alberto Santos. Santos said that, without the PILOT, Kearny could have taxed the development at full value for about $1 million but – after a review of Russo’s application by financial consultant Tom Banker – town officials opted to go with the PILOT as a justified “incentive to build.” As stated in the proposed financial agreement, the rationale for the PILOT is: “In the current real estate marketplace, the rents likely to be achieved by this project are

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not sufficient to pay for the costs of land and construction and the payment of full taxes while allowing the developer the opportunity to make a return on its investment that is sufficient to both warrant the risks and to convince the lending markets to provide the construction and permanent financing required by the project.” And, the agreement goes on to say that: “Since the Town believes that [the] amounts to be paid under the terms [of this agreement] are greater than the incremental costs to be incurred by the Town as a result of the project, the Town

believes that it is in its interest to provide the necessary incentive that will cause the project to be constructed.” Plans call for construction of six, 3-story buildings containing 78 one-bedroom apartments, that are projected to rent for between $1,600 and $1,700 per month, and 72 two-bedroom apartments, expected to rent for between $2,200 and $2,400 per month, according to Town Administrator/Construction Official Michael Martello. With an abated property, no

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school taxes are collected but Santos said that the project is expected to generate, at most, 12 school-age children, “but probably it’s going to be less,” so the impact on the local school system figures to be minimal. Santos said that an environmental cleanup of the project site – originally owned by the U.S. Navy and, subsequently, by a variety of commercial and industrial firms – has been completed by Russo, who previously built a CVS pharmacy and Investors Bank on adjacent property. The entire site was previously designated as an area in need of redevelopment by the town and Russo applied for the PILOT in June 2013. Once the PILOT agreement is adopted and permits are approved, Santos said that development of the residential units figures to get under way by early 2014. “They’ll probably start leasing the apartments in 12 to 15 months,” he said. Overall project cost is listed in the financial agreement as $31,302,686, with a construction loan of $21.3 million committed by PNC Bank. A successful completion of this project, on the edge of an industrial area, could open the door to an extended “residential corridor,” Santos said. Russo said: “We are excited about expanding our residential portfolio into Kearny. Mayor Santos and the Town have been great to work with throughout the entire development approval process, and we look forward to commencing the residential phase of this project.”

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Be bright around lights With the winter holiday season approaching, the Kearny Fire Department’s Bureau of Combustibles is reminding people to be careful when lighting candles in religious services, in places of worship, and in the home. The bureau advises the community that, whether you are using one candle, or more than one, on a candelabra, kinara or menorah, make sure you take a few moments to learn about using candles safely. Candle Safety • Candles should be

placed in a sturdy candle holder. • Hand-held candles should not be passed from one person to another at any time. • When lighting candles at a candle lighting service, have the person with the unlit candle dip their candle into the flame of the lit candle. • Lit candles should not be placed in windows where a blind or curtain could catch fire. • Candles placed on, or near tables, altars, or shrines must be watched by

an adult. • Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep. • If a candle must burn continuously, be sure it is enclosed in a glass container and placed in a sink, on a metal tray, or in a deep basin filled with water. General Fire Safety • Matches and lighters should be stored out of the reach of children, in a locked cabinet. • Places of worship should be equipped with a fire detection and sprinkler system.

Washington School honors Jon Zimmerman, principal of Washington School, Kearny, announces the first marking period Principal’s Honors and Honor Roll: Grade 4: Principal’s Honors – Jason Li and Grace Romanowski. Honors – George Adrianzen, Marco Almeida, Alexander Calle, Aisha Cardona, Sofia Chouaib, Jayson Colon, Gerson Diaz, Amanda Gonzalez, Justin Herbert, Jennifer Leverock, Suky Lopez, Rebecca Pessoa, Patrick Przybylski, Elijah Rivera, Julia Sikorski, William Sanchez and Maria Whala. Grade 5: Principal’s Honors – Erick Rosas and Iker Taboas Honors – Nicholas Abad, Andrea Aguirre, Carlos

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• A home should have smoke alarms on every level, outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom. For the best protection, interconnect the alarms, so when one sounds, they all sound. Test all smoke alarms at least monthly by pushing the test button. Replace smoke alarms when they are 10-years-old. • Plan and practice a home fire escape drill that includes two ways out of every room and an outside meeting place. Children and Candles

• Candles should be out of the reach of children and pets. Young children should never hold a lit candle. Consider providing battery-operated candles for children. A parent should decide when a child is mature enough to light a candle with adult supervision. Facts • December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. • More than half of home candle fires happen when a candle is placed too close to something that can burn.

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around town THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Belleville

Belleville Elks, 254 Washington Ave., hosts a blood drive on Thursday, Dec. 26, from 5 to 9 p.m. No appointment is needed. The drive is open to township residents and surrounding communities. Donors will be given a mini-physical. All donors must be at least age 17, weigh at least 120 pounds, be in good health and bring a signed form of identification. There is no upper age limit for donors provided they meet the health requirements. There is a 24-hour deferral for tooth cleanings and fillings. Those who have recently traveled outside of the U.S. are asked to call the Blood Center of N.J. at 973-676-4700, ext. 132, for eligibility criteria.

Kearny

Kearny Health Department, 645 Kearny Ave., sponsors a blood drive on Wednesday, Dec. 18, from 2 to 7:30 p.m. All

donors will receive a $10 gift card from ShopRite. At the same time, The Gift of Life program will be conducting a bone marrow ID and sign-up program. A simple mouth swab will be able to match potential donors with those in need. Both programs are open to anyone in good health over age 18. Mary’s Theater Parties and Tours, Kearny, offers Woody Allen’s “Bullets Over Broadway” on March 19 at 8 p.m. The price is $157 with a deposit of $100 with reservation. Balance is due Feb. 15. Price includes: orchestra seat and dinner at 5 p.m. at San Carlo Restaurant, Lyndhurst, transportation, tax and tip. Seats are limited. Call 201-998-1030.

Lyndhurst

The Woman’s Club of Lyndhurst is collecting nonperishable food items, plus hams and lasagne, along

with gift cards for ShopRite or Stop & Shop, as part of a food drive for the local Food Pantry, 253 Stuyvesant Ave. Monetary donations, payable to the Woman’s Club of Lyndhurst, may be sent c/o Diane Cichino, 481 Roosevelt Ave., Lyndhurst, N.J. 07071. Donations of unwrapped toys may also be brought to the Food Pantry. Sacred Heart School, 620 Valley Brook Ave., sponsors a Tricky Tray on Friday, Jan. 17. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 and non-refundable. No alcohol will be served. For tickets, call the school at 201939-4277 or Patty at 201-8039580. Ticket deadline is Jan. 6. No tickets will be available at the door. A Winter Solstice celebration will be held at the Meadowlands Environment Center, 2 DeKorte Park Plaza, on Thursday, Dec. 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. Learn about the history of the solstice, make

a solstice craft, and enjoy celebratory food and drink. Adults must accompany children. Admission is $5; $4 for MEC members. Registration is recommended. To register, visit www.njmeadowlands. gov/ec. For more information, call 201-460-8300. Lyndhurst Knights of Columbus hosts a communion breakfast at the Senior Building, 250 Cleveland Ave., on Sunday, Dec. 29, from 10 to 11 a.m. Tickets are $7. No tickets will be sold at the door. Pick up tickets at Sacred Heart Rectory, 324 Ridge Rd., 201438-1147, or call Sal Russo at 201-446-7244 or Nick Garafolo at 201-935-5988.

Nutley

The Nutley Department of Parks & Recreation will offer its Pilates fitness program starting Jan. 4, for Nutley residents, on Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to noon, at the Recreation Annex, 65 Bloomfield

Ave., for six consecutive weeks. There is a $30 fee. Participants are asked to bring a mat and a water bottle. Register online at https:// nutleynj.my.gov-i.com/recreation or pick up forms at the Parks & Recreation office, 44 Park Ave. For more information, call 973-284-4966 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The Nutley Parks & Recreation Department sponsors a ski/snowboarding trip to Shawnee, Pa., on Feb. 18. A bus will leave from 44 Park Ave., at 8 a.m., and is expected to return to Nutley at about 8 p.m. Information on ski rental and pricing for lift tickets is available through the department upon registration. Participation is limited and applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no online registration for the program. Register by Jan. 6. Call 973-284-4966, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., for more information.

Court okays $165M Passaic River settlements A Superior Court judge in Trenton has approved two settlements that will provide the state with $165.4 million in the ongoing Passaic River pollution litigation, Acting N.J. Attorney General John J. Hoffman and Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin announced last week. Authorities said this also will permit the DEP to immediately proceed with its substantial legal claims against the principal defendant in the Passaic case, the Occidental Chemical Corp., which is accused of intentionally dumping dioxin and other chemical waste into the river for decades. Hoffman hailed the two settlements, which were approved by the court last Thursday, as a vital step forward in the state’s effort to ensure that polluters pay all costs associated with the Passaic River

cleanup and that New Jersey residents are compensated for damages caused by the pollution. “The residents of New Jersey should not be forced to bear the cost of cleaning up the Passaic River, a precious natural resource damaged by industrial polluters,” Hoffman said. “The cleanup of the lower Passaic River is extremely important to the health and safety of people who live and work along the river, and is one of our top environmental priorities,” stated Martin. “The parties responsible for the pollution should be accountable for the expense of the remediation.” Under the first settlement approved by Judge Sebstian Lombardi, $130 million will be paid to the state by “nondischarging” defendants, including Spanish oil company

Repsol, S.A., and Argentinabased energy conglomerate YPF, S.A., YPF Holdings Inc. and YPF International. Also party to the settlement are CLH Holdings Inc., Maxus Energy Corp., Maxus International Energy Co. and Tierra Solutions Inc. Under terms of the agreement, authorities said, the settling defendants’ total exposure to claims for Passaic cleanup, removal costs and damages could go as high as $530 million, subject to conditions related to resolution of the suit against Occidental. In the second settlement approved by Lombardi, 261 third-party defendants -- including 70 municipalities and other public entities -- will collectively pay the state a total of $35.4 million. The state did not sue the third-party defendants. They were brought into the case by Maxus and Tierra,

which had argued that pollution of the Passaic started more than two centuries ago and that many public and private parties contributed to its current condition. Going forward, Hoffman explained, the state intends to pursue its claims against the one remaining nonsettling principal defendant, Occidental Chemical Corp., for future clean-up and removal costs related to contamination of the river. The state also will pursue Occidental for damages resulting from the intentional discharge of Agent Orange, dioxins and other hazardous substances by the former Diamond Shamrock plant in the Ironbound section of Newark. The Passaic River litigation was launched by the state eight years ago against Occidental and other companies associated with the Newark

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plant. From the 1940s through the ‘60s, Diamond Shamrock manufactured pesticides and herbicides, including the infamous defoliant Agent Orange, used during the Vietnam War. Over a period of many years, the state says, Diamond Shamrock discharged the known carcinogen dioxin, as well as other hazardous substances, into the Passaic River. In 2012, Judge Lombardi entered a judgment against Occidental, holding it liable for all of the state’s clean-up and removal costs because Occidental is the legal successor to Diamond Shamrock. The federal Environmental Protection Agency is currently finalizing a detailed plan for cleanup of the lower eight miles of the Passaic River. The report is expected to be released in early 2014. –Karen Zautyk

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

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school district, backed by the municipal government, has balked at paying what they consider to be a high tuition rate charged by the Harrison school district – a rate it claims will cause hardship for

local taxpayers. East Newark has already partly broken with the Harrison district by setting up its own pre-school program – currently, for 18 children – instead of sending those children to Harrison which, in turn, farmed out the kids to

a private child care center. Borough school records show that the district paid Harrison tuition fees of $14,764 per child to send students to Harrison High during the 2012-2013 school year but is being charged more than $16,000 per child for this

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firm specializing in demographics and enrollment projections; N.J. retired educational administrator Peter E. Carter; and Berkeley Heights accountant James L. Kirtland to make its case. They must prove – to the satisfaction of the state Commissioner of Education – that the termination of a “sending”/ “receiving” district relationship between East Newark and Harrison will have no adverse impact on racial diversity of the student population, quality of education or finances. A big reason East Newark’s school board opted for the Porzio law firm is that one of the firm’s principals, Vito Gagliardi Jr., has had prior success handling similar cases in the state. As noted in his resume, posted on the firm’s website, Gagliardi “pioneered a dual sending-receiving agreement between two small school districts in order to keep them both cost-effective and viable” and also “oversaw the only three regional school district dissolutions in New Jersey state history ….” Unfortunately, the process won’t happen overnight. By Shlala’s estimate, it could take as long as a year and a half before a decision is reached by the state – unless both sides can agree to some type of compromise settlement along the way. In the meantime, Shlala said that the district will have to proceed on the assumption that it is going to have to pay the Harrison tuition rate, at least for the current school year, and, likely, for the following year, which means it will be faced with some tough budget decisions on possible cuts to services and programs in lieu of raising school taxes.

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school year. Last school year, East Newark’s enrollment at Harrison High averaged 98; so far, this year, it’s averaging 124. Kearny’s school district is reportedly receptive to the idea of accommodating East Newark students at its high school, which is currently being renovated while Kearny students continue with classes. East Newark School Superintendent/Principal William Shlala said the issue at hand “comes down to cost effectiveness,” noting that currently, Kearny’s tuition rate stands at about $12,000 per student. Shlala said: “Forty percent percent of our budget is tuition we pay to Harrison,” which, according to Borough School Business Administrator Tim Havlusch, totaled $1.48 million for 2012-2013. During the summer, the Harrison school board sued to prevent East Newark from pulling out of the pre-school arrangement but, after it was demonstrated that the arrangement was based solely on a one-year contract between the districts, Harrison dropped its complaint. And, in a separate legal action on Harrison’s objection to East Newark’s efforts to extricate itself from the Harrison High arrangement, Hudson County Superior Court Judge Leslie Celentano concluded that was a matter for the state Department of Education to rule on. So, to that end, the East Newark school is engaging the Morristown law firm to follow the statutory process prescribed for breaking with Harrison. The law firm, in turn, will be relying on several experts – Statistical Forecasting LLC, a Secaucusbased educational consulting

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

sports&recreation Harrison soccer star Sowe named AllAmerican

SPORTS VIEW Contact Jim at Ogsmar@aol.com

Kearny boys’ hoops: A new direction Bob McDonnell now has the position he had coveted for years, namely the head coaching position for the boys’ basketball team at Kearny High School. Now, it’s up to McDonnell to show everyone that he deserved the shot. One thing was for sure. There was no need for a transitional period. McDonnell, who has been involved in Kearny basketball on the youth level for what seems like forever and was the former freshman coach and assistant on the varsity, knows all the kids and they all know him. It wasn’t like an outsider was coming in and taking over. McDonnell has been a fixture in Kearny for more than 20 years. “Honestly, there wasn’t a transition,” McDonnell said. “Even for some of the players who came out for the team for the first time. It’s been going pretty well.” There has been a lot of learning in the preseason. “We’ve put in a system that is not like any other system they’ve seen,” said McDonnell, who was an assistant coach at Berkeley College for the last three years before replacing Bill Schoener at Kearny. “We’re trying to install

the system. Some kids are picking it up faster than others.” McDonnell said that there was one main obstacle that he faced during the early practices. “One of our biggest problems has been a lack of fundamentals on defense,” McDonnell said. “The majority of our practice time has been spent on defense.” But McDonnell seems to be making progress. “I met with each kid individually and I asked them each what they felt they needed to improve on,” McDonnell said. “The majority of them said defense. That’s good, because that’s what we are trying to stress. We want to be a better defensive team.” The Kardinals also want to be a better team than they were last year, when they won only five games. “The kids have all set individual and team goals,” McDonnell said. “I wanted them to be realistic goals. They said they want to improve and win more games. They said they’re going to try to win at least 10 games.” That total may be a challenge, playing teams in the competitive Hudson County Interscholastic Athletic League. see VIEW page

Photo by Jim Hague

Harrison standout defender Modou Sowe was selected recently as an All-American by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America. He becomes the first All-American in the history of the school.

By Jim Hague Observer Sports Writer

that I could play.” Sowe sure could play – perhaps better than any other hen Modou Sowe was player in the town’s rich his13 years old, his family tory. left his native Gambia, It’s debatable, simply because only to arrive in – of all places there might not have ever been – Harrison. a Blue Tide player with the “Sometimes, I ask myself, diverse talents of Sowe, who ‘How did my parents find this can dominate one minute as place?’” Sowe said. a powerful defender and then But it was an opportune move up to become a deadly move for Sowe, because Harstriker the next. rison is a soccer hotbed. And Sowe scored 20 goals last while growing up in Africa, year as a junior and added Sowe was indeed a soccer 19 more this year as a senior, player. impeccable numbers for a “I was so lucky to be put in defender. this town,” Sowe said. “It didn’t “We keep him at defense a take long to fit in here. This is lot, but sometimes, he was able a very big town for soccer and to push forward and get a goal,” people found out right away

Harrison head coach Mike Rusek said. “It’s so hard to find a big guy (Sowe is 6-foot-4) to have that kind of skill. Usually, it’s a little guy who has that skill. It’s like watching a tall point guard in basketball bringing the ball up. It’s a very rare quality to have that physical talent and skill.” Sowe now has a very rare distinction, because recently, he was selected as an AllAmerican by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America. Sowe was one of only three New Jersey players to receive the honor, joining Derek MacKinnon of Washington see SOWE next page

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

SOWE from Township and James Murphy of Scotch Plains. More importantly, Sowe is the first Harrison player to ever receive the prestigious distinction. Through all the years of great soccer and players in Harrison, Sowe is the first one. That idea is hard to fathom. Over the past 15 years, Kearny had players like Sergio Ulloa, Michael Miller and Hugh MacDonald to receive All-America status, but Har-

rison never had one until now. “This is so rare,” Rusek said. “We’ve had players earn AllState, but never All-American. It’s a great honor for Modou and he deserves it.” Sowe was surprised when he received word of his honor. “It’s a great feeling,” Sowe said. “When they announced it in the school, I was shocked by it. Of course, I was very happy. It never would have happened without the help of my teammates. They were great with me.” The Blue Tide posted a 22-1-

1 record this season, winning the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 2, Group II championship before falling to Newton in the overall Group II semifinals. Sowe said that he was able to make a lot of friends in Harrison through playing soccer. It also helped him learn to speak English, because in Gambia, there were two languages. Sowe’s father speaks Fula while his mother speaks Wolof. “There are different dialects,” Sowe explained. “Now, at home, we’re only allowed to

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speak English.” Sowe is now weighing some offers to play college soccer. He is an excellent student, with a 3.3 grade point average, but he needs to improve his Scholastic Aptitude Test scores before deciding on a college. Seton Hall is one of the schools very interested in securing Sowe’s services. “I haven’t chosen a college yet,” Sowe said. “There are many colleges looking at me.” As well they should be. “I guess Modou has to be

considered one of our best ever,” Rusek said. “He falls in line nicely with the rest.” Sowe will receive his AllAmerica award at the NSCAA convention which is held in Philadephia next month. “When I was just a boy in Africa, who would have thought that I could one day become an All-American?” Sowe said. “It’s really amazing. It’s a great feeling. You don’t get to have a feeling like that a lot.” Nope. No one in Harrison has ever had it before.

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VIEW from

“I think the kids are up for the challenge,” McDonnell said. Leading the returning players is 6-foot-3 junior forward Zach Latka. The lanky Latka is a player to watch. “He has a quick first step to

Junior Gustavo Chemin will play a big role as well. Chemin is a 6-foot-2 forward. “He’s a hard worker,” McDonnell said. “I’m looking for him to be a defensive stopper and rebounder.” Senior Agmed Fraih is a 6-foot-3 forward that McDonnell likes to call “O.J.”

Sophomore Sammy Sanchez is a 5-foot-10 guard who is playing organized basketball for the first time. “He’s an aggressive kid, a football player,” McDonnell said. “He’s also quick and not afraid to get on the floor. He’s still learning because he never played basketball before. But he’s good to have on the team.” The Kardinals also have a fine addition in a veteran

coach. Mike Reilly, who was the long-time head coach at McNair Academic in Jersey City, has joined forces with McDonnell on the Kearny coaching staff. “He’s great to have around,” McDonnell said of Reilly. “He’s great with the players and works with them well. He knows the finer points of the game. We have a nice working relationship because he knows the fundamentals and can help

with drills with the kids.” The Kardinals open their season Friday night against Bayonne. “I think the goal is to improve,” McDonnell said. “I don’t expect miracles overnight. As long as they keep working hard, they’ll improve and that’s what we’re looking for.” And there’s a coach who will be in place for many years to come.

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The Kearny boys’ basketball team opens the season this weekend against Bayonne with new head coach Bob McDonnell. Pictured here are the team’s seniors. Front row, from l., are Alfredo Urgiles, Isaac Osorto and Julio Vasquez. Back row, from l., are Amged Fraih, Joel Vivas, coach McDonnell, Joe Rodriguez and Michael Trama.

the basket and he’s also a very good shooter,” McDonnell said. “From 15 feet and in, he can make shots. Most definitely, he’s going to play a big role for us and set the tone.” Senior Isaac Osorto is the Kardinals’ starting point guard. “He sees the floor well and is a good passer,” McDonnell said of the 5-foot-9 Osorto. “He’s our floor leader. He’s definitely what I want in a point guard. He’s like the coach on the floor.” Senior Joel Vivas has shown a lot of promise. The 6-foot-5 Vivas will be a key down low for the Kards. “He rebounds well,” McDonnell said of Vivas. “I’d like him to be a little more physical. But he has great leaping ability and goes up to get the ball.”

“He provides a little muscle underneath,” McDonnell said. “He’s a banger down low. He goes to the boards really hard. He’s really a team leader.” George Smyth, a 6-foot-3 sophomore, is also in the mix at forward. “He has great court intelligence,” McDonnell said. “He sees the court well. He’s a total team player and he’s going to play right away.” Senior Julio Vasquez is a 6-foot point guard. “He plays defense aggressively well and is accepting his role well,” McDonnell said. “He knows he has to play defense for us.” Senior Michael Trama is a 6-foot-2 forward. “He’s probably our best jump shooter,” McDonnell said. “He’s also going to help us down low.”

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Golden Bears take cerebral approach with new coach Palek By Jim Hague Observer Sports Writer

“We’re putting it in piece by piece. We tried to do too much early on, so we scaled it back as they get a feel for it. But the kids have been real good in learning it. I think we’re actually ahead of schedule.” Palek decided to go with the Princeton approach because he had a sense that his new team could handle that transition because of their basketball intelligence. “They’re a very bright bunch of kids,” Palek said. “We also have some experience. Any time you get guys with experience, it’s a big plus, especially with a new coach. I think it’s helped the rest of the others come along. That’s been important.” The Golden Bears’ starting point guard is the diminutive Photo by Jim Hague Sergio Turelli. The 5-foot-5 The Lyndhurst Golden Bears welcome a new head boys’ basketball coach in Paul Palek. Front row, from left, are Nunzio senior, who is also a baseball

aul Palek noticed one important trait about the Lyndhurst High School boys’ basketball team he inherited this season. “They’ve been eager to learn and quick to pick up on things,” said Palek, a veteran coach who had previously been a head coach at Montville and Wayne Hills and an assistant at RutgersNewark. “This has probably been the smoothest transition I’ve had so far as a coach, because of the kids. They give me good effort every day and that’s half the battle. I have no issues whatsoever with the effort.” Palek has decided to institute a hybrid of the famed Princeton offense. “The system we run is very complicated,” Palek said.

Gangi, Jake Estevez and Sergio Turelli. Back row, from l., are Patrick Dennehy, head coach Palek, Jonathan Hoff and Kyle Krzastek.

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standout in the spring, has definitely caught Palek’s eye. “I’m very impressed with him,” Palek said of Turelli. “He’s very quick and is good with the ball. We talk all the time about basketball and things with the team. I’m happy with his progress.” The shooting guard is 6-foot senior Jake Estevez. “He’s a strong guard, a physical player,” Palek said. “He also has good instincts on defense.” Jonathan Hoff, a 6-foot-1 senior, is the team’s small forward. Hoff was the excellent quarterback for the Golden Bears’ football team last fall, passing for almost 2,000 yards. “He’s our best shooter,”

Palek said of Hoff. “He can also post up down low as well. He brings that football leadership to our team. Being a quarterback and having to make decisions makes a big difference to our team.” Junior Brandon Karlok is another forward. The 6-foot-1 Karlok has a lot of potential. “He’s long and lanky,” Palek said. “He’s also very athletic. He can also shoot it pretty well. He just needs to get used to the speed of varsity level basketball.” Senior Kyle Krzastek is the Golden Bears’ biggest player at 6-foot-3. “He’s our most important player,” Palek said. “He can run and jump well. He’s an un-

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believable athlete. We’re going to rely on him a lot to rebound the ball. I expect him to have a big season for us.” Senior Patrick Dennehy is a 6-foot-2 forward. “He will need to rebound and defend for us,” Palek said. “He’s more of a role guy.” Senior Nunzio Gangi is a 5-foot-10 player who can man both the point guard and shooting guard positions. “He’s a good defensive

player,” Palek said. “He’s still learning the offense, but he’s beginning to fit in.” Sophomore Vincent Dorio is a 5-foot-9 player with a load of potential. “He can really shoot the ball,” Palek said. “I just hope he can adapt to playing varsity right away, but I’m really excited about his potential.” The Golden Bears begin the Paul Palek era on Friday night at home against Dwight-En-

glewood, with the tipoff slated for 7 p.m. “I definitely think we can compete, if we keep on getting better,” Palek said. “As a coach, that’s all you can hope for. We’re running a new system for both offense and defense and that takes time. If we can defend, then we can compete. We have to make the other teams work for what they get. If we can defend, it can go a long way.”

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Family Eye Care Come in today for:

• Eye Exams • Contact Lenses • Pediatric Care Frank Viscomi of Kearny displays zucchini he grew, estimated at about ﬁve feet, seven inches.

Dr. Maria Domingues Dr. Carla Domingues Optometric Physician Optometric Physician Lic # 270A0063100 Lic # 270A00646200

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

launched last month, Det. Lt. Gouveia and Det. KpD from Bryant Obie arrested where a mother-daughter 35-year-old Brooklyn resiteam allegedly tried to dent Saul Carrazana on leave the store with $1,275 theft charges related to worth of unpaid merthe reported disappearchandise. ance of $25,000 worth of liquor from a South During a search incident to her arrest, Talisha Kearny distributor. Police said the company, which Richard, 43, of Newark, contacted the KPD on was found to be in posNov. 21, believed it had session of a New Jersey been victimized by its driver’s license, a Bank of America card, a Social employee over a threemonth period. Security card, a Wells Fargo Visa card and a Based on informaton Costco card, all belongit had received earlier in ing to an Orange resident, police said. She was the month, the Vice Unit charged with shoplifting, had been conducting conspiracy, theft of prop- surveillance of 28-yearerty lost or mislaid, and old Kearny resident Juan credit card theft. Castellanos, who was The daughter, Kaneisha suspected of distributRichard, 22, of Newark, ing marijuana from his was charged with shopSchuyler Ave. residence. lifting and conspiracy He was arrested at 4 p.m. at his home, where police and on an outstanding reportedly found a large East Orange warrant. bag of suspected pot and Dec. 10 $120 in cash, believed to At 11 a.m., as a result be the proceeds of drug of an investigation they sales. He was charged

with distribution, and distribution in a school zone/park zone. At 11 p.m., Officer Tom Sumowski responded to a complaint of a disturbance at a Washington Ave. address and reportedly found that 23-yearold Scott Huaman had smashed much of the furniture in the apartment where he had been staying with a relative. He was charged with criminal mischief. Dec. 11 Officer Tom Pontrella was called to quell a midnight dispute at a Belgrove Drive address and encountered Anthony Joana, 39, of Kearny, on the other side of a locked common entry door. Joana allegedly kicked said door, shattering it, and then made his escape on foot. A criminal-mischief warrant has been issued for his arrest. –Karen Zautyk

Kearny man wins injury case A Kearny resident injured in an auto accident was recently awarded $200,000 in damages following a case before Hudson County Superior Court Judge Lawrence Maron. The resident was represented by the Kearny law firm of Brady Brady & Reilly, with attorney Kathleen Reilly appearing in court. According to Reilly, the incident resulting in the resident’s injury occurred as he was being driven

back to a car dealership in Hackensack on April 7, 2011. Reilly said the resident, who was a customer of the dealership, was driven to a storage lot by a dealership employee when it struck the rear of a stopped, pickup truck. As a result of the impact, Reilly said the resident suffered injuries to his neck and right shoulder and the shoulder injury necessitated an arthroscopic repair and reconstructive

surgery performed by Dr. Michael Russonella of Clifton in Aug. 2011 and in July 2012, followed by therapy at Peak Performance in Kearny. The dealership and its driver were represented by Lisa Marie DeRogatis, of the Morristown law office of William E. Staehle. The case resolved after Judge Maron agreed to bar the testimony of the defendant driver of the automobile, Reilly said.

To place a classified ad, please call

201.991.1600

“The best professionals, right here in your neighborhood.”

The practice provides a wide variety of new and advanced services in all areas of medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology.

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WWW.METROPOLITANDERM.COM 752 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 997-8008

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Real Estate

ROCHE from

Transportation safety audit of Washington Ave., which is part of the State Highway Rt. 7 network which the state plans to repave. The multi-year, multi-million dollar paving project will run from Belleville, through Kearny, into Jersey City, he said. “The state’s responsibility is curb-to-curb,”

DIRECTORY To advertise in this directory CALL 201-991-1600

761 Ridge Rd. Lyndhurst, NJ 201-460-8000

Semiao & Associates

The Bixler Group

LLC

213 Kearny Ave, Kearny, NJ 201-991-1300

Nicosia said, “so they’ll be taking care of upgrading synchronized traffic lights, sidewalk corner handicapped ramps – things like that.” He said the township has applied for a $5 million grant to redo sidewalks and curbs in certain areas. The bond ordinance, which will come up for a public hearing next month, will also provide $143,000 to complete

the new Friendly House recreation facility by installing a parking lot and acquiring limited recreational equipment and $225,000 for the rehabilitation of the currently vacated Silver Lake firehouse “to get it habitable,” Nicosia said. The Franklin St. structure has been compromised by a leaky roof and environmental issues.

For going above & beyond

Members of the Lyndhurst Board of Commissioners recently paid tribute to members of the Lyndhurst Fire Department for responding to more than 100 service calls in a 30-hour period during Superstorm Sandy and its aftermath. From l.: Former Fire Chief Steven Passamano, who served as acting Chief of Department during Sandy; 2nd Asst. Fire Chief Paul F. Haggerty, Mayor Robert Giangeruso, and current Chief David J. Wartel.

The Bixler Group

Real Estate & Insurance Since 1891 758 Kearny Ave., Kearny 201.991.0032 BixlerEST1891.com

Rosa Agency Realtors 551-553 Kearny Ave., Kearny 201-997-7860 www.RosaAgency.com

Exit Golden Realty 148 Midland Ave., Kearny 201-997-4425

Keypoint Mortgage

North Arlington, NJ 201-998-9050 Rob@keypointmortgage.com

Elite Realty Group Commercial & Residential 235 Harrison Ave., Harrison T: 973-268-4000 www.eliterealtyharrison.com

Arlington Real Estate Owned & Operated by the Capobianco family since 1924

201.991.0905

SAVINO

REAL ESTATE, INC.

Savino Real Estate

251 Ridge Rd., Lyndhurst 201-438-3120 www.savinorealestate.com

21 DiSabato Inc. AN ICON IN THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1890

105 North 3rd St., Harrison T: 973-483-2081 F: 973-483-0705 www.DiSabatoInc.com

LET US SAVE YOU MONEY ON YOUR HOME & AUTO INSURANCE HOUSE OF THE WEEK

Kearny Exclusive- Our office has just listed this lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bath, Modern Ranch Home. A finished basement, driveway & garage are included. Very reasonable asking price of $289,000. LYNDHURST - 2 bedroom one family colonial - 100 yards from train and bus transportation and Ridge Road. Living room, dining room and kitchen on 1st, fl., The 2 bedrooms and extra special tile bath above. Gas heat. Yearly taxes $5,000. Estate sale. We have the key. Asking $199,000

CONTR R E D N U

ACT

MANOR SECTION- Traditional 3 bedroom colonial, lovely chestnut trim with 1 1/2 baths and 2 car detached garage. Sunporch, living room, dining room & kitchen on 1st. floor. The 3 bedrooms and full bath above. Gas heat, relatively new roof. Taxes under $10,000. per annum. Better be quick! EXCLUSIVELY LISTED. REDUCED TO $269,000. SIDE BY SIDE - 2 Family with 2-4room (2 bedrooms) apartments. Both having updated kitchens & baths. Each apartment has separate entrances and have both 1st and 2nd floors. Finished basement. 3 garages for offstreet parking. Conveniently located. Sorry Saturday appointments only. Special offering. Call now. Asking $359,000.

8 Year Young Kearny Two Family Home Both apartments feature three bedroom, two baths, central air. Off street parking. Immaculate. Reduced for quick sale $519,000.

Harrison 4 Family with Parking - 4 Three bedroom apartments and parking for 6 cars. Only $579,000

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

NORCIA from Norcia’s three-year contract that accords the new superintendent the right to take a 180-day paid severance if things don’t work out in the new job. “Most administrators don’t get a deal like that,” he griped.

Hughes asked for, and got, a vote to amend the provision to a 90-day severance but, again, it was defeated by a 4-3 margin on a partisan basis. Hughes said there may be other perks in the contract but he said he hasn’t yet seen a

copy. “I’m still waiting to get it from the borough attorney,” he said. Norcia was appointed to the Borough Council in early 2013 to replace Steve Tanelli, who was elected to the Bergen County Board of Freeholders in November 2012.

THINK YOU CAN’T REFINANCE BECAUSE VALUES ARE DOWN? THINK AGAIN!!! STARTING MARCH 2012, HARP 2.0, a new program presented by the Federal Government, allows homeowners to refinance regardless of the equity they currently have in their house (even if you are upside down!) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have adopted changes to Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) and you may be eligible to take advantage of these changes. If your mortgage is either owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, you may be eligible to refinance your mortgage under the enhanced and expanded provisions of HARP. You can determine if your mortgage is owned by either Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac by checking the following websites: For Fannie Mae: www.fanniemae.com/loanlookup For Freddie Mac: www.freddiemac.com/mymortgage

AAA honors KPD

ROB PEZZOLLA • NMLS# 266181

AAA North Jersey recently presented Kearny Police officials with an AAA Outstanding Achievement Award in recognition of exceptional traffic safety activities, including “Otto the Auto” for young students, DWI patrols and checkpoints and the “Click It or Ticket” campaign. From l.: Sgt. John Taylor, Officer Patrick Sawyer, AAA North Jersey President Rose Kruse and Officer Peter Blair.

The Bixler Group

LLC

UNDER T C CONTRA

2 Family Asking $275,000

2 Family Asking $299,900

NORTH ARLINGTON

Townhouse Style Condo Asking $329,900

NORTH ARLINGTON

2 Family Asking $349,900

758 Kearny Avenue, Kearny NJ 07032 • 201-991-0032

USIVE E EXCL

OFFIC

LYNDHURST 1 Family Renovated $339,000

LYNDHURST

LYNDHURST 4 Bedroom 2 Full Bath $455,000

2 Family 5 Bedroom, 2 Bath

$379,000

Cappiello Real Estate Services, L.L.C 437 Kingsland Ave, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071

Tel: 201-438-9000 • www.CRSsells.com

with

Karen DeRose

Broker Sales Associate

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

The Bixler Group Family & Staff would like to wish you a Happy Holiday season EAST NEWARK

201-998-9050 • Fax 201.820.0505

WELCOME HOME

Real Estate & Insurance Since 1891

HARRISON

ROB@KEYPOINTMORTGAGE.COM

NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031

CLIFFSIDE PARK – Mixed use-3 units great bus opp 1st flr store frnt beauty parlor/nail salon: 2nd &3rd flr livrm, 2bdrms, mod full bths, both lrg mod updated EIK’s w/slidders to deck. 2nd level deck to yrd w/ shed.

T BELLEVILLE –

ONTRAC

C UNDER

Beautiful move in condition custom Ranch. Lrg Livrm to formal dinrm to Lrg. newer kit w/granite countertops newer appl., dr to patio. Mstrbdrm w/ full bth. Newer main full bth, 2nd bdrm. Gorgeous lower level.

$315,000

UNDER T C CONTRA

$489,900

This advertisement entitles you to a “Complimentary Evaluation” of your property. Contact me, a Coldwell Banker Real Estate Professional, and I will show you how much your property is worth in today’s marketplace. 789 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 Office: (973)778-4500 x114 Cell: (973)580-6445 Email: karen.derose@cbmoves.com Web: www.KarenDeRose.com MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

© 2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Deadline for obituaries:

Monday by 10 AM

Mary Dombrowski Mary Dombrowski (nee Szymanski), 91, of Harrison and Toms River, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 7 at home, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Kearny, she lived most of her life in Harrison, before retiring to Toms River. Mary was a member of Our Lady of Czestochowa Seniors and Rosary Society and the Holy Cross Seniors. She is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, Frank Dombrowski. She was the loving mother of Teresa of Toms River and Walter of Long Beach Island, and his wife Ellen. She was the devoted grandmother of Mark & P.J. and great-grandmother of Jackson and Declan and aunt to numerous nieces and nephews Funeral services were under the direction of Mulligan Funeral Home, Harrison. A funeral Mass was held at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, Harrison. For information or to send condolences to the family, please visit mulliganfuneralhome.org. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of Mary @ www.stjude.org. Peter J. Forte Peter J. Forte died Dec. 10 in Wayne. He was 82. Born in Newark, he lived

obituaries

many years in Kearny before moving to Lincoln Park 20 years ago. Arrangements were by the Armitage and Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Dr., Kearny. A funeral Mass was held at St. Stephen’s Church, followed by burial in Holy Cross Cemetery. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.armitagewiggins.com. Peter was a retired chemical operator from Hoffman LaRoche and a Korean War veteran, having served in the Army. He was a member of the V.F.W. Husband of Eileen “Lynn” (nee Schermond), he is survived by his daughters and their husbands Cynthia and Lennie Greene and Joni and Keith Lewin; he was the brother of Josephine Tracy (late William), Lee Falcone (Frank), Rudy Forte (Joyce) and Anna Forte. Also surviving are his grandchildren Jessica and Nina and many wonderful nieces and nephews and their families. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to The

Wounded Warrior Project.

John A. Hopko John A. Hopko, 77, of the Brookfield Glen section of White Township, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 7, at his home. Born in Wilkes Barre, Pa., on March 2, 1936, he was the son of the late Anthony and Eudora Lewis Hopko. John was raised and lived in Harrison before moving to White Township in 2004. John was a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in Harrison, before retiring. He was a parishioner of St. Patrick Church, Belvidere. He had served on the building and grounds committee at Brookfield Glen. The most important thing in John’s life was his family. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his wife of 45 years, Mary Ann Santamassino Hopko; a sonin-law, Mark Turker; and a brother, Anthony Hopko. Surviving are two sons, John Hopko Jr. of Harrison, and

Mulligan Funeral Home

973-481-4333

fax: 201-991-8941

obituaries@theobserver.com

Edward Karolasz Edward Karolasz died Dec. 14 in St. Michael’s Hospital. He was 83. Born in Gdynia, Poland, he lived in Switzerland before moving to Kearny 55 years ago. Visiting is on Wednesday, Dec. 18, from 5 to 9 p.m., at

the Armitage and Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Dr., Kearny. A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, Harrison, and burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery. Edward will be laid to rest next to his son SSG Edward Karolasz, who killed on Nov. 19, 2005 in Iraq. Ed was a retired machinist from Chase Pharmaceutical in Newark. He was a member of the Polish National Home and was the superintendent for 10 years at the Lithuanian Catholic Community Center. He is survived by his wife Krystyna, his children and their spouses Donna and David Kornas, Kristine and Paul Lancha and John Jastrzembski. Brother of the late Zofia Maziarka, he is also survived by his grandchildren Brianna, Sofia, Logan and Kenzie. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Wounded Warrior Project. see OBITS page

Shaw-Buyus Home for Services

138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032

visit us at: www.mulliganfuneralhome.org

Tel: (201) 991-2265

Holiday Smiles WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME

It’s no wonder Thanksgiving brings out so many smiles – we get to spend time with our familes! As a family ourselves, we know just how important that is. We’d like to wish you joy throughout the Thanksgiving and the holiday season.

Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916 John W. Armitage, Director N.J. Lic#2642

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 75 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home

596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657

MARIO TEIXEIRA, JR., #2542 DIRECTOR-MANAGER

Licensed Funeral Directors serving your needs include:

Private Parking at 10 Frank Rodgers Blvd. North

To submit an obituary:

Matthew Hopko and his wife Tara of Oxford; a daughter, Valerie Turker of Belvidere; four grandchildren, Anthony and Maria Turker, Madelyn and Alexandra Hopko; three brothers, Jerome and his wife JoAnn, James, and Donald; a sister, Barbara Polk and her husband John. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Dec. 11 at St. Patrick Church, Belvidere, under the direction of MacFadden Funeral Home, Belvidere. Online condolences may be sent to www.MacFaddenFuneralHome.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions are requested to be made to the family, c/o MacFadden Funeral Home, 325 Hardwick Street, Belvidere, N.J. 07823.

331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221 Frank X. Mulligan, Jr., NJ Lic. 2953

www.thiele-reid.com

585 Belgrove Drive | Kearny, New Jersey 07032

(201) 991-3344 | (201) 991-1031 Steven R. Thiele,NJ Lic. No. 4077, Owner/Manager Philip H. Thiele,NJ Lic. No. 2383, Director

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

www.theobserver.com

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the next week’s publication. No changes or refunds. Deadline for classifieds is Monday by 4:00 PM.

HouSe for Sale FOR SALE 6 UNITS IN HARRISON. GROSS $71,800, NET $56,900. MONTH TO MONTH LEASE. BEST RESIDENTIAL AREA IN TOWN. ASKING PRICE $649,000. 201-998-2153 OR 201-951-2868

North Arlington 2 mother daughter houses to be built.12 Arlington Ave. Call for Details. O’HARA AGENCY (201)997-6300

HOUSE fOr rENT KEARNY 1 family house, 5 BR’s, 3 Bathrooms, Driveway for 3 cars, and use of backyard. 1 month rent & 2 months security. Utilities Separate. Avl. Now. Call Helen 201-744-8322.

BUSiNESS fOr SAlE Hair Salon for sale, operators will stay. Owner looking to retire. Caldwell area. Call for information (201)207-7263 Grocery Store for Sale. In the Heart of Harrison. All merchandise included. Month to Month Lease. 241 Harrison Ave. Harrison. Best offer. Daytime number 973900-9094 After 6pm call 973-420-0793.

BUSiNESS fOr rENT HARRISON: Harrison Avenue. Pizzeria Restaurant for rent or lease, full equipment. Ideal for BBQ. Available now. (973)714-2368

HAll fOr rENT Party Hall

Rental • Affordable • A/C • Nice Setting

201-889-6677 201-572-1839

Space for rent Doctors office space 1800 sq. ft. on first floor in medical bldg at 837 Kearny Ave opposite movie theater. Also available on second floor 750 sq. ft. in same bldg. Very reasonable with plenty of parking. Inquire in dental office or call office at 201/991-1055. For lease 7,000 sq ft of refrigerated space USDA approved with 70ft enclosed dock and 1/2 acre of parking with 1,500 sq ft office. Call (201)997-1500. Harrison Office Space Available. Modern furnished office suites. Starting at $350. (973)481-3996 •Currently Available 1700 sq.ft., 5 offices w/bath & reception area at 564 Union Avenue, corner of Greylock, in Belleville. Call (973) 202-8580

ApArTmENTS fOr rENT Kearny KEARNY 4 modern rooms, 2 BR’s 3rd Fl. 3 family. $925/month, HT/HW supplied. 1 ½ month’s security. Near NY buses. 201-747-0303. KEARNY Small 2 bedroom apt. EIK, LR. HT/HW included. $1250/month. Available after 12/15. No pets. Please call Phyllis (973)224-2911 Kearny Studio Apt. HT/HW included. 2nd floor. No pets. $835/month. 973-393-4703. KEARNY 2 BR Apt. LV, DR, Kitchen. 1st floor. Plus Parking. $1250/month. 3 BR Apt. LV Kitchen, Bathroom. 1st floor. $1350/month. Hardwood Floors, Central Air. Available Dec. 1st. 973-8203452.

There will be a $10.00 processing fee when Cancelling an ad before it is published for the first time. • $10 processing fee if changes need to be made for running specials

CLASSIFIEDS

To place an ad call: 201-991-1600 classified@theobserver.com

ApArTmENTS fOr rENT

KEARNY 3 bedrooms, LR, kitchen, bath. Storage available. Washer/dryer hook-up. $1600/month. Heat included. Available January 1st. (201)376-3184

KEARNY 6 rooms. 2nd floor. Recently remodeled, hardwood floors. No pets. $1250/month. 1 month security. Available December 15th. (201)991-7601 (201)772-6026

KEARNY 2 Family home. Ivy St. 2nd floor, 2 bedrooms, LR, EIK, W/D hook-up in kitchen, large deck, Hardwood Floors. $1200/month. 1-1/2 months security. Available now. (973)820-8338

KEARNY New 3 bedroom apt, 2 full baths, L/R, kitchen, central AC/HT, hardwood floors. Basement storage with washer/dryer hook-up. Off street parking. Yard. No Pets. $1575.00 month + utilities, 1-1/2 Security + good credit. Close to NYC transportation. Call (201)998-8226, 6am-3pm, M-F for appt.

KEARNY 2nd floor. 6 family. 2 bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom. Separate utilities. $950/month. 1 month security. Available. No pets. (201)467-1551

HARRISON 1BR, 1 Bath, 1 PARKING, EIK, GROUND FLOOR W/PATIO. LAUNDRY IN BUILDING. AVAIL JANUARY 2014. $1200/MONTH. RENT INCLUDES HEAT, HOT WATER AND COOKING GAS. 1.5 MONTHS SECURITY DEPOSIT REQUIRED. TEXT or call (973) 746-6827.

KEARNY 2nd floor, 4 rooms, storage space, $1100/month + Utilities. 1-1/2/months security. Call Jay (646)678-2729 KEARNY Small 1 bedroom. Arlington Section. Newly Renovated. Laundry on Premises. HT/HW included. Near Transportation. No pets. $795/mo + security. (201)998-4972

KEARNY 1 bedroom apartment. Renovated building. Wood kitchen cabinets, refrigerator, stove, ceramic tile floor, hardwood floors throughout. Laundry on-site. No Pets. Near NYC transportation. 1-1/2 months security. Arlington Section. $890 + utilities. (908)2445847 KEARNY Arlington section, 1 bedroom, all new appliances/flooring, $1,000/month plus utilities, No pets/smoking, Security Deposit, 973-309-0903. KEARNY 3 LARGE ROOmS. (1BR). BELGROVE APTS. 111-117 BELGROVE dRIVE. $915 INCLudING HT/HW. NO PETS. SECuRITY. LEASE. LAuNdRY ROOm. 973-493-7868 KEARNY- 1 bedroom apartment, L/R, kitchen. One month security. Utilities separate. No pets. No Smoking. (551)486-1488 KEARNY 1 bedroom, LR, DR. 1 month security. Utilities separate. No pets. No smoking. $1000/mo. Available now. (201)991-3608 KEARNY Apartment Renovated building. Wood kitchen cabinets, refrigerator, stove, ceramic tile floor, hardwood floors throughout. Laundry on-site. No Pets. Near NYC transportation. 11/2 months security. Arlington Section. $880 + utilities. (908)2445847

KEARNY Resiential Area, East Midland Ave. 2nd fl. 2BR Apt. LR, Big Kitchen, Bath, Hook Up Central Air. Separate Utilities. No pets. No Smoking. Off Street Parking. $1400/month. 1 ½ months security. Available Now. Call 201-519-3778. Leave Message. KEARNY 2nd floor 5 rooms. Plus Sunroom. No Pets. HT/HW included. $1400 + 1-1/2/month security. Available 11/1 (201)998-1120. KEARNYArlington section 4 rooms, 2nd floor, HT/HW supplied. No Pets. Referencesneeded. $1200/month + 1/month security. Call (201)991-5968. KEARNY 2nd floor, 2 level Apt. $1,100/month + Utilities. 1-1/2 month Security. No Laundry. No Pets. Quiet Location. Credit Check Required. Available January 1st. (201)997-2113 KEARNY 4 rooms, Avl. Jan. 1st. No pets. 1month security. $950/month + utilities. 973-229-2786. KEARNY 2nd Floor, 2 bedrooms, DR, LR, office room, washer/dryer hook-up. $1200/month. Separate utilities. 1-1/2 months security. Available January 1st. (718)915-7606 Leave message KEARNY Studio Apt. Utilities included. $700/month. 1 month security. Call after 5pm, 201-927-6608. KEARNY 1 FAMILY HOUSE, 7 ROOMS + LAUNDRY ROOM, CLOSE TO SCHOOLS & TRANSPORTATION. AVAILABLE DEC. 1ST 201-968-6344. KEARNY 3 rooms, heat/hot water supplied. one month security.$900/month (201)991-4888

KEARNY 3 ROOmS (ONE BEdROOm) ON THIRd FLOOR: 12 GRANT AVENuE. $815 PLuS uTILITIES. LAuNdRY ROOm. NO PETS. 973-493-7868 KEARNY 4 rent By Owner 2 & 3 BR Apts. Newly Renovated. All Units Have W/D Hook up & Basement Storage. Most units have A/C. Rents Range from $950$1475 + Utilities. 1 ½ months security + Good Credit required. Close to NY Transportation. No pets. Call 201-998-8226. Between the hrs. 6am4pm. Monday-Friday for Appt. KEARNY Apartment Renovated building. Wood kitchen cabinets, refrigerator, stove, ceramic tile floor, hardwood floors throughout. Laundry on-site. No Pets. Near NYC transportation. 11/2 months security. Arlington Section. $880 + utilities. (908)2445847 KEARNY 4 rooms Spt. Dukes St. Front Hudson Park. Renevated, Hardwood Floors. No pets. $930/month + utilities. 973-391-3868. KEARNY ELm COuRT Kearny’s Best Kept secret 732 Elm St. 1 BR for $850 NYC Commuter Bldg Call Alan (201)955-4334 or PJ (973)922-1555 ext 1 Affiliated Mgmt.

KEARNY Newly renovated, hardwood floors. Laundry onsite.HT/HW included. 2 BR start at $985. 1 BR start at $825. Jr.1 BR start at $750. (201)289-7096

KEARNY 1 studio, included. Refridgerator, and parking Avail. $800/month. months sec. 973-808-1556.

room HT/HW Stove 1 car Immed. 1 ½ 1st fl.

KEARNY 2nd Floor, 2 bedrooms, DR, LR, office room, washer/dryer hook-up. $1200/month. Separate utilities. 1-1/2 months security. Available January 1st. (718)915-7606 Leave message KEARNY • Beds: 2. Full Baths: 1 New Kitchen, recently painted & separate utilities. $1000. • Beds: 2. Full Baths: 1 New Kitchen, recently painted & separate utilities $950. Call Fernando 201-460-8000

Kearny 3 bedroom, LV/DR, EIK, Close to Transportation. HT included. 1 month $1475/mo, Security. Available January 1st. 201-320-9507. KEARNY 1 FAMILY HOUSE, 7 ROOMS + LAUNDRY ROOM, CLOSE TO SCHOOLS & TRANSPORTATION. AVAILABLE NOW 551-482-0999. KEARNY 2 bedroom, 1st floor, LR, kitchen, central air. $1175/month. Separate utilities. 1-1/2 months security. (973)380-9007 KEARNY 355 Kearny Ave. 1 BR, LV & Kitchen. $850/month. HT/HW Inc. 201-2834591 or 973-465-0166. KEARNY Arlington Area. 5 rooms, 1 bath. 1-1/2 months security. $1200 + utilities. No pets. (201)213-1871 KEARNY 1 bedroom. Completely renovated. Central air/heat. Close to schools & transportation. Parking available. Washer/dryer hook-up. Available now. (973)634-5485

Belleville BELLEVILLE $1050/month. 1 BR, 1 bath. Utilities included. W/D. Available. 973-902-7203. BELLEVILLE 4 rooms 2 bedrooms, newly renovated. HT/HW included. Carpeting, AC. Convenient to NYC transportation. $1150/month. 1-1/2 month security. No pets. (973)964-7105 BELLEVILLE 2nd floor. 2 bedrooms. Quiet area. Close to public transportation. No pets. $1000/month. Separate utilities. 1 month security. Available now. (973)563-7479 (973)650-9855 Maritza or Mike BELLEVILLE 2nd fl. 2 BR’s, Belleville Nutley border. W/D Hook up. HT/HW included $1300/month.Avl. Jan. 1st 862-201-616.

HARRISON: 3 bedroom apt., 3rd floor. 97-99 Hamilton St. $1200/month + utilities. Available November 1st. Call Norma (201)921-3954 HARRISON 3rd floor. Efficiency plus kitchen. Available immediately. 1-1/2 months security. Pay own utilities. $800/month. NO PETS. (201)955-5325 for appointment. HARRISON 2nd floor, 2 bedroom, Kitchen, LV, DR, Bath. W/D, Close to Path. $1300/month. 1 month security. Available Jan. 1st. 973-420-8694.

HARRISON Completely renovated. 2 Bedroom apartment, dishwasher. Utilities not included. 1-1/2 months security. $1300/month. Close to transportation. Available Now. No pets. (973)992-3580 after 5pm.

BELLEVILLE 1 BR Apt. Available now. 1 ½ month’s security required. Utilities separate. No smoking. No pets. Please Leave Message. HARRISON: 5 large 973-202-1919. rooms. New house, 2nd floor, 2 HarriSon bedrooms, kitchen HARRISON Newly appliances. Central Renovated, 2nd fl. Apt. AC/HT. Smoke-free No 2 BR, EIK, LV, environment. Plenty of Hardwood Floors, pets. 1-1/2 $1250/month + parking. security. utilities. 1 ½ month months Available. Call security. No pets. (973)481-1721 973-484-8671. HARRISON 5 rooms, Near Path. A/C. no pets. $1250/month + utilities. 1.5 months security. Avl. Jan. 1st. 201-572-9286.

HARRISON Brand New, High quality, 3 BR Apt.. Near Path& High School. Call 973-772-2882 or 973-772-3883

HARRISON 2 bedrooms walk-thru apartment. EIK, backyard. Very clean. $1,250 plus util. Available Nov. 1st. (914)497-5489

HARRISON 2 bedrooms, 1-1/2 baths, washer/dryer, use of backyard. No pets. No smoking. Close to PATH. $1250/month. 1 month security. Available now. (251)509-6766

43 HARRISON Cleveland Ave. 1 BR. pays Tenant Apt. utilities. No Smoking. No pets. Excellent neighborhood. Available Dec. 1st. 954-448-3339.

HARRISON Modern 1 br, 2nd Fl. Private Entrance. Clean Quiet & comfortable. Refrigerator. No pets. $750 + utilites. Security & lease. 862-223-9974.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

www.theobserver.com

CLASSIFIEDS

ApArTmENTS fOr rENT

HarriSon

LYNdHuRST 2nd fl. 1 BR apt. Private House. H/W floors, $1000/month + 1 month security. HT/HW included. Small pet ok. 201-575-5270.

N.ARLINGTON 2 Bedrooms, Hardwood Floors, A/C Central, Bus Close, Schools Close. 973-202-6662 or 973-699-6658.

HARRISON 2nd floor, 2 bedrooms, bath, big LR, kitchen, balcony, newly painted. Separate utilities. Available January 1st. (201)803-9148

lyndHurSt

LYNdHuRST 2 bedrooms, LR, EIK. $1200/month + utilities No pets. Walk to train, bus & shops. (201)452-4158 or (201)507-8817 LYNdHuRST 1 bedroom $1200, 3 bedroom $1650. Section 8 OK. (973)227-1851 (973)760-4877.

LYNdHuRST 3 room, 1 BR, HT/HW + Cooking Gas Inc. Newly Remodeled H/W Floors. Dishwasher, Garage Inc. No pets. $1,100/month. Close to public Transportation. Please call after 9am, 201-991-6056. LYNdHuRST 1 bedroom Plus Den Just Renovated in small Apt. building residential area. New kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Blocks to NYC train/Bus. Laudry on site. No pets. $1050 + heat/utilities. Security $1,575. Credit check required. (908)217-9047. LYNdHuRST Just renovated. 1 bedroom plus den. New kitchen cabinets, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, ceramic tile floors. Hardwood floors throughout apt. Near NYC train/bus. Laundry on site. No pets. $995/month + heat. 1-1/2 months security. Credit check required. (908)217-9047 LYNdHuRST 2 bedrooms. Includes AC, kitchen w/granite & all appliances, laundry facility, parking. $1195/month plus utilities. No pets. Smoke Free Building. Close to NYC transportation. (201)970-3210 LYNdHuRST 2nd fl. Newly Renovated. 2 BR’s. $1,000/month. HT/HW included. No Pets. No Smoking. 1 month security. 201-935-5234.

LYNdHuRST: 2nd Floor Apt. large 2 Bedroom, Kitchen, LR/DR, & Bathroom. H/ HW Included. $1450/mo plus 1-1/2 Security Deposit. Call (201)954-1304

neWarK NEWARK 4 rooms close to path & bus. Avl. Jan 1st. No smoking. 1 month security. $650/month. 862-754-8160 after 3pm. NEWARK 1 BR $865 & 2 BR $1,100 Vailsburg/Near Seton Hall HT/HW included. Safe/Secure. Brick Historic Bldg. Extra Large BR’s. Newly Renovated. Kitchen, Bath, H/W Floors, Refrigerator, Ceiling Fans. 1 mo security. Section 8 ok. No fees. No pets. 973-216-9470 NEWARK 1 BR $865 & 2 BR $1,100 Vailsburg, Near Seton Hall. HT/HW included. Safe/Secure. Brick Historic Bldg. Extra Large BR’s. Newly Renovated. Kitchen, Bath, H/W Floors, Refrigerator, Ceiling Fans. 1 month security. Section 8 ok. No fees. No pets. 973-216-9470

n. arlington N.ARLINGTON 1 & 2 Bedroom Apts. HT/HW included. Parking space. No pets. 201-342-2206. N.ARLINGTON 1 BR, 4 ½ rooms. Walking Distance NYC Transportation. No pets. $1,000/month + Utilties. 1 mo security 201-407-1928. N.ARLINGTON 2nd floor. 2 bedrooms. Ceramic tile kitchen. Livingroom. H/W included. 1 month security. Must pay utilities. NO PETS. Available Now. 201-991-7647 or 201-563-1230.

N.ARLINGTON 5 Renovated Rooms + Computer Room. C/A. No pets. 1-1/2 month’s security. $1350/month. Available Jan. 1st. 201-997-3348. N.ARLINGTON 1st floor, 2 BR’s, kitchen, Big LV, 1 car parking, space for W/D, & Little space for storage, $1150/month. 1 month security. No Pets. Utilities not included. 201-997-7552. N.ARLINGTON 2 Apartments for rent. Renovated, 2 bedrooms, C/A, washer/dryer hookup, 1 car parking, $1450/month. Renovated 1 bedroom, LR, FCTB, new kitchen, $1100/month. Call (201)376-7200 or (201)893-7913

n. neWarK •N.NEWARK Section 8 approved, 1st floor, 3 bedrooms. Available. Call (973) 202-8580.

room for rent

BELLEVILLE Nice area. Room for rent. $400. 1 month security. Call after 4:00pm (973)336-5335 (862)215-9440 E.NEWARK Room for rent. No smoking, utilities included. Available now. (973)868-7999 (973)481-0344 HARRISON 1 room safe, clean area. LR/DR, Kitchen, Bath. Utilities included. Female preferred. No Smoking. $600/month. Near Path. 201-314-9982. HARRISON Room for rent. $415/month, 1 month security. No smoking. No drinking. Cable included. Private entrance. Male Preferred. (973) 4896668

perSonalS

Nice looking man, looking for nice woman. Must be over 60 w/no children. (973)715-9586

perSonalS

53 Year old man looking for a women 40-55, that would like to go on a date. If interested call Donald 201-606-5622.

employment

PT position to perform various office duties and assisting the public. Computer exp with MS Office req. Must be bilingual in English & Spanish. $11.03/hr, 24.5hr/wk For residency req and applic, App deadline 1/03/2014 Go to www.kearnynj.org Town of Kearny 402 Kearny Ave Kearny NJ EOE/AD Real Estate Agents Call for a confidential interview or if interested in taking a local real estate course to obtain your license CALL Mid-Realty, Inc. (201)991-5719 Bilingual (English/Spanish) Medical Assistant needed for busy Pediatric office. Must be able to commute between two office locations and be proactive and responsible. One or 2 years experience a must. Please fax resume to (201)998-0021 Bus Driver wanted w/CDL Class B, passenger, Air Brake, zero points, FT/PT Bus Driver Needed for Adult daycare center. No weekends or nights, competitive wages. CAll (973)751-6000 or fax resume to (973)751-1190

Experience Waitress wanted Morning shift 6am-2pm. Monday-Friday. Downtown Newark. 201-667-8692. Now Hiring! Property inspectors FT/PT in your area. Full, free training provided. msangelabove@ comcast.net (732)766-4425 ask for Mel PT Instructor Wanted. Must have clean driving record, no points or accidents. NJ Drivers License for more than 4 years A MUST. Reliable & Responsible. (201)246-8000

employment

roofing

medical Assistant

N&J REmOdELERS

To work for medical office. P/T position, 30/hrs. Must have experience and be bilingual Portuguese-English Fax resume to (973)350-0885

CDL Class A driver for 24 person bus at Kearny daycare. Monday-Friday pick up and drop off for schools in local area. Kindly contact daycare Director, Ms. Josephine. Hours and pay rate will be discussed upon interview. Call 201-998-7384.

Kitchen Cabinet Company is seeking for an energetic sales representative with some experience. We will train you to understand the market and our product. Must have car. Base Salary + Commission. Email Resume to Michael@ MKwoodcabinets.com

Full time medical receptionist wanted for a busy medical practice in Nutley. Bilingual and medical experience preferred. Competitive Salary and excellent benefits. Apply via email. Send Resume to: Ana.entofnj @gmail.com

Handyman dO IT ALL

Interior/Exterior new & repairs. All types of Carpentry.Reasonable rates,quality work, reliable, experienced. 13VH06620900

(201)991-3223

“Fair Deal Dan” Painting, Sheetrock, plastering, Odd Jobs, Flooring, Windows and doors, Plumbing, replace water heater, Leaky Faucets, Tile work for floors, Bathrooms, Kitchen, Counter Tops and Granite. Lic#V203575. 201-448-1563.

roofing

G & R Builders All Roofing & Siding. Patchwork. Senior Citizen Discounts

(201)893-0656

Roofing + Siding Specialist. Windows,

Doors, Decks, Kitchen/ Baths. Complete Home Renovation. Quality workmanship. All work guaranteed. Free Estimate. Fully Insured Nick (201)997-7657

• New + Re-roofing • Slate Repairs • Gutters Cleaned • Flat Roofing • Also Do Painting Free Estimates Fully Insured

(201)998-5153

rUBBiSH rEmOvAl A1 Affordable Rubbish Removal Attics, Basements, Yard Cleaning. We Haul or you Can Rent 10-15 Cubic Yard Containers. We Accept Visa/Mastercard (201)998-1262 ANDRIELLO CLEANOUTS

Yards, Garages, Basements, Attics, Real Estate, Rubbish Removal/Demolition Lic.13VH04443200

(201)874-1577

ARmIN CLEANOuTS Rubbish removal, garages, basements, attics, demolition. We’ll match any price (973)460-2963

landScaping COPACABANA

LANdSCAPING • Lawn Maintenance. • Fall Clean-up •Clean Gutters • Snow plowing •Tree Service Free Est. & Fully Ins. Eder (201)997-9271

LADYBUG Landscapes Inc.

• Design • Construct • Maintain • Paving • Snow Removal Demolition-Commercial (201)804-0587 (201)655-1938

roofing

To place an ad call: 201-991-1600 classified@theobserver.com landScaping mARIO ESPOSITO

LANdSCAPING LLC Spring Clean-ups Lawn maintenance Top Soil • Mulch Free Estimates (201)438-3991

ANDRIELLO LANDSCAPE

• Construction •Design • Maint./Clean Ups • Shrub Trimming • Grass Cutting Lic.13VH04443200

(201)939-7308

cArpET clEANiNG Carpet Cleaning Jay Shampoo, 2 rooms $80. Call for free estimate. Contact

201-312-7972. clEANiNG SErvicES Annie’s Cleaning Service Homes, offices. Move in-out cleaning. Gift Certificates Avail. Excellent references Holiday Special With $100 Gift Certificate Purchase you’ll receive free house cleaning. 3 hr. limit. Exp. 1/31/14 973-667-6739 862-210-0681

gutterS D. FITZGERALD Seamless Gutters Installed. Gutters Cleaned We-R- Also Dennie’s Painting & Roofing Slate Roofs repaired. 1(800)479-3262

HOmE imprOvEmENT Ranne Tile & Home Improvement Ceramic Tile Repairs • Walls & Floors • Big & Small • Regrouting • Caulking • Repair soap dishes • Tile Floors. Free Est. Fully Ins. (201)355-8489

roofing

mIKE’S ALL SEASONS ROOFING & SIdING • Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Gutter & Leaders • Roof Repairs 13VH008B0300 Free Est 201-438-0355 Fully Ins’d

HOmE imprOvEmENT Fm Property Home Repairs & Improvements • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Doors • Floors • Windows • Painting • Decks All types of repairs Lic. # 13VH05674000

Fully Insured

201-428-7160

www.repairsbyfm.com fred@repairsbyfm.com

G & R Builders Roofing, Siding, Windows/Doors, Decks, Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Carpentry. Lic. #13VH02536200 Free Estimates 20% Senior Citizen Discounts

(201) 893-0656 JMW CONSTRUCTION

Complete Home Improvements •Kitchens •Bathrooms •Decks •Replacement windows •Siding •Additions Lic.#13VH03156600 FREE Estimates Fully Insured!

(201)935-1975

Handyman Star All inside or outside repairs. Windows, painting, sheetrock, carpentry, masonry, and decks. No job too big or small. Free estimates. Tom (201)4245042

FGLC Contracting Interior Stone Tile & Paint Hardwood Flooring

201-962-0032 SErvicES OffErEd

Cut Your Mortgage In Half Maintain Your Current Life Style (201)805-4999

Free Call

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

www.theobserver.com

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the next week’s publication. No changes or refunds. Deadline for classiﬁeds is Monday by 4:00 PM.

tutoring

plumBing

**MATH TUTOR** Retired Math Teacher available for tutoring. Call for appointment (201)935-3645

Courageous Plumbing HVAC LLC Lic. # 11103

Wanted to Buy Estates Bought & Sold Fine Furniture Antiques, Accessories, Gold & Silver.

Cash Paid (201)920-8875 conStruction

Martinez Chimney • Chimney Liner • Leaks • Cleanings • Building & Repairing • Down Draft Correction • Total Chimney Restoration Fully Ins. and License #13VH06939900

(201)889-1363

pAiNTiNG & dEcOrATiNG ALEXANdER PAINTING, dECORATING Sheet rock/drywall. Skim coat, tape & spackle Water damage. Wallpaper remove. 15+years of experience. Free Estimates.

(973)985-6644

• Plumbing • Heating • Cooling • Sewer • Complete basement pump out & Sump pumps MC/VISA and Finace Available $50 off when mention this ad.

(201)206-4845 JOSEPH V. FERRIERO

Plumbing & Heating Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry. Fully Ins. Free Est. Lic# 165 (201)637-1775

cOmpUTEr SErvicES J. M. Electronics Computer Repair *Free Computer Check-up *We Buy & Sell Computers *TV Repair LCD & Plasma 502 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032 Call Jeff for more information at (201)486-2057

SErvicES OffErEd Appliances & Electronics Repair. Serving NJ since 1995! Visit www.santronics.net or call Mario Santos at (908)403-0313.

CLASSIFIEDS iTEm fOr SAlE

Large GE fridge & recliner both in good condition $300, price negotiable. Free gift with sale. 973-901-5887. For sale, North Arlington. Queen bed and mattress set. Dresser w/mirror. Wardrobe cabinet. Reasonable. Roberta 201-991-8211

automoBileS for Sale White 2005 Ford F350 Pick-Up with cap truck, diesel engine. 229,000 miles. $7,200 (201)954-4287 1(910)880-1052

GArAGE fOr rENT Belleville 3 car garage for rent. 25x19. $450/month. 1 month security. Available now. Good for parking cars, storage, boats, contractors. Safe location. (973)951-6315

J & F TOWING CA$H 4 JUNK

(201)939-8781

CAR$ $200-$500 PAID ON THE SPOT. FREE TOWING 201-428-0441 ANY CAR, VAN OR TRUCK. NO TITLE, NO KEYS, NO PROBLEM.

paving

electrical

Bills Interior Painting & repairs. Free Estimates (973)801-9487 SAL POLIZZOTTO

Painting, Decorating interior, exterior, Paper Hanging, ceiling. Full Installation, General Repairs. Over 14 years experience. FREE ESTIMATE

automoBileS Wanted

Each year, The Observer newspaper has a toy drive to help make Christmas, a better time for the less fortunate children of our area. But we usually have no control over where the toys are disbursed. This year, we’re trying something different. In addition to asking our readers to drop off toys at our office at 39 Seeley Ave., Kearny, we’re also asking our readers to let us know if you know of any families that might be in need this holiday season. Or, if you’re in need of help providing toys for your family, you can let us know directly. All information we receive will be kept strictly confidential and will only be seen by the people coordinating the toy drive. You can let us know of deserving families by sending an email to toydrive@theobserver.com. Let us know the number of children, their first names, their age — and what kind of toy they’d most like. We’ll do our best to match requests, but might not be able to in all cases. But, we want to make sure there’s not a child in our area who has to go through the holidays without at least one toy.

Weslo Pursuit Exercise Bike and D.P.Transport Treadmill #LP-6100 $350.00 Call (201)991-5770.

The Township Manager of Belleville is asking if you can please post that alternate side of the street parking is suspended until 1/31/14.

ANdREAS PAINTING Professional House Painter 165 Interior & Exterior Printing-Plastering-Taping Free Estimates (201)997-0706 Speak slow on answer machine please

Thank you so much for your generosity, and of course, for being loyal Observer readers. We’re all grateful to you for that.

electrical

JAG PAVING CORP. EmERALd ELECTRIC

Commercial & Residential Driveways Parking Lots • Belgian Blocks • Sidewalks • Steps • Pavers • Retaining Walls • All asphalt work Lic By NJ, Member of BBB *Fully Insured * Free Estimates

www.jagpaving.com LORENA (201)991-4165 Cell:(201)401-4525 Kearny Fax:(201)997-5783

25 Years experience • All types of electrical wiring

24 hour emergency service

Free Estimate Lic# 11909

To place an ad call: 201-991-1600 classiﬁed@theobserver.com

10 % OFF with ad El. Insp. #7566

(201)955-2678

Don’t forget to follow The Observer on

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

waTCH from

the municipal departments themselves, which are always reaching out to the residents. A prime example came the other day in the following email: “Dear Nutley Resident: “The Nutley Police Department is organizing our new Neighborhood Watch program to be launched in January 2014. Neighborhood Watch is an all-volunteer group of Nutley citizens who work in partnership with the Nutley Police Department to educate the public about crimeprevention measures and to act as our extended eyes and ears in your neighborhood. Mayor Petracco is also encouraging Nutley residents to get involved and help keep our community safe. “Please call 973-284-4947, or email tstrumolojr@nutleypd.com if you are interested in becoming our partner to keep Nutley safe.” It was signed by Police Chief Thomas J. Strumolo. The key phrase in the missive: “becoming our partner to keep Nutley safe.” It’s a true partnership between the citizenry and law enforcement. But it involves nothing -- repeat, nothing -- like a certain “Stand Your Ground” Florida Neighborhood Watch case that may be on your mind. In Nutley, Neighborhood Watch volunteers do not go out on patrol. “We do not expect anyone to take any action,” Chief Strumolo told us. The vols’ job is simply to be alert, to be the “extended eyes and ears” of the cops and to contact law enforcement if something seems

amiss. It’s the police who will do the enforcing. But the civilian contribution can be immense. “We’ve [the Police Department] have had a great relationship with the community, and I’m looking to expand on it,” Strumolo noted. “Mayor Petracco is on the same page as I am,” he added, “and he’s encouraging the effort” to renew and expand the program. For Neighborhood Watch, “We are looking to recruit as many residents as possible,” Strumolo said. “It’s a team effort [between police and civilians] to continue to have a safe community.” A foundation of that effort is to “keep our residents as informed as possible,” the chief said. That info can range from burglary-prevention tips to advice on avoiding email scams. “Just getting the word out is important.” Due to computer technology, there’s a lot of fraud out there, especially from miscreants “phishing” for personal information that can be used for identity theft or monetary theft. Folks who are less technically savvy are easy prey. Senior citizens have been particular targets, but as the scamsters get more sophisticated, just about anyone is vulnerable now. Once the new Neighborhood Watch program is underway, it will include informational meetings “educating residents on how to protect themselves,” Strumolo noted. The topics will range from how to avoid falling victim to identity theft to how to protect their homes from burglaries, etc., etc. The Nutley PD will also be using the internet as a

Photo by Karen Zautyk

Nutley Police Chief Tom Strumolo

crime-fighting weapon, disseminating information and advice. “We can be in touch with everybody,” the chief said. This will be done through email crime alerts -- such as a recent one alerting residents to phony “town Water Department workers” who were attempting to gain entry to homes, the better to commit thefts. (The standard advice is: Don’t let anyone into your

house without checking their ID. And even then, keep them outside until you verify that ID with the Police Department or the township department/company they claim to represent.) The PD also has a Twitter page and one on Facebook (www.facebook.com/nutleyPD), where residents can get the latest alerts and updates. For example, if there are car break-ins in a certain area some night, “we can post instant information on this,” Strumolo said. (By the way, the chief reiterated advice we have heard from law enforcement in other towns: “Please lock your car doors. And don’t leave valuables in your vehicles.”) The department is also working on crime-mapping software, which the public can access from any web browser. Residents could see if a certain area is being targeted for burglaries or car thefts or other crimes. As for the Neighborhood Watch volunteers, the hope is to eventually set up block captains, who will be the

contact person to whom neighbors can report their concerns. The vols will not be asked to devote specific amounts of times, but just to be vigilant and help with the email distributions. The organizational meeting for the improved and expanded Neighborhood Watch will be held Jan. 14 at Town Hall. You can sign up that night or in advance by contacting Strumolo at the phone number or email listed earlier in the story. But whether you join or not, Strumolo has a request for all Nutleyites regarding crime prevention and awareness and keeping Nutley a safe place to live and raise a family: “If you notice something odd, tell the police. If, for instance, a car looks suspicious, get a description, a license plate. Anytime you think that something doesn’t look right, call the police.” “I’ve heard people say, ‘I didn’t want to bother you.’ No one should ever feel they’re ‘bothering’ us. It’s what we’re here for.”

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

Norman was a self-employed carpenter. He was an Norman J. Salvesen active member of the LyndNorman J. Salvesen died at hurst Masonic Club and the home on Dec. 11. He was 65. N.J. Police Square Club. Born in Jersey City, he Husband of the late Nathlived in Lyndhurst before lie, he was the stepfather of moving to Somerset three Walter, Joseph, Marie and years ago. Private funeral ar- Monica. He was also the rangements are by the Armit- brother of Edward Salvesen, age and Wiggins Funeral Joan Marques and the late Home in Kearny. To leave an John Salvesen. online condolence, please visit www.armitagewiggins. Alice Stang com. Alice Stang died on Dec. 11 OBITS from

in Richmond, Va. She was 84. Graveside prayers were held in Arlington Cemetery. Arrangements were by the Armitage and Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Dr., Kearny. Alice was an accountant for Paul Mellon and Company in New York City before retiring. She had been a member of the First Presbyterian Church in North Arlington. She was the daughter of

Henry and Dorothy (nee Rightmire) Stang. She is survived by her brother William Killorn and his family.

Orthodox Church, 80 Laurel Ave., Roseland. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.armitagewiggins. com. Angela Tano Angela was a cashier at Angela Tano died on Dec. Tops Diner in East Newark 14 in Kearny. for many years. She is the Visiting will be on Wednes- wife of the late Frank J. Tano. day, Dec. 18, starting at 9 a.m. She is survived by her daughin the Armitage and Wiggins ter Kalistagne “Mary” Welsh Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove and her grandson Frank J. Dr., Kearny. Her service will In lieu of flowers, consider be at 11 a.m. at St. Nicholas, a donation to your own faConstantine and Helen Greek vorite charity.

How to protect your holiday tree

The Kearny Fire Department cautions that while the Christmas tree is a symbol of the holiday season for many, if not properly selected and handled, it can be a major fire hazard. Those who use an artificial tree should ensure that the tree is flame-retardant. For those using real evergreens as part of their holiday décor, they can take these steps to increase safety and prevent a Christmas tree fire: • Make sure the tree is fresh when purchased. If its needles are brittle or shed easily,

choose a different tree. • When setting the tree up at home, place it at least three feet away from any heat source. In addition to the fireplace, stay away from radiators, heating vents and lighting. These can dry out a tree and increase its flammability; • Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. • Do not leave the tree up for an extended period. Fire safety professionals recommend you not leave it up any longer than two weeks. • When you dismantle the tree, discard it immediately

and properly. Do not leave it in a garage, on a porch or at the side of the house. A dried-out tree is highly flammable and can still cause major damage when sitting in these locations. Check with your local community for a recycling program or other disposal options. In addition to the Christmas tree, holiday lighting represents another major fire hazard but, again, simple steps can greatly reduce the risk: • Always make sure the lights have the label of an independent testing laboratory such as Underwriters Labo-

ratories (UL). Such organizations carefully test products to ensure safety and reliability; • Replace any lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. These are hazards that can ignite a fire; • Avoid stringing together too many strands of lights. In general, that means no more than three strands of mini lights or 50 screw-in bulbs. Remember also that LED lighting can burn hotter and may have greater restrictions, so check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use; and • Never leave Christmas tree

lights on if the tree is unattended. Unplug them when you go to bed or leave the home. In celebrating the holidays you should also avoid using lit candles in the house — and never use them on a tree. If you do use them in the house, make sure they are in stable holders, place them where they cannot easily be knocked over and never leave them unattended. Finally, make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are operating properly.

The Lincoln Theater & The Rotary Club of Kearny

Present...

FREE Movie For The Kids 10a.m. December 24th

Wishing You a Merry Christmas Pick Up Tickets at These Locations: • The Observer, 531 Kearny Avenue, Kearny • Arlington Real Estate, 130 Midland Avenue, Kearny • House of Rugs, 510 Kearny Avenue, Kearny • The Lincoln Theater, 838 Kearny Avenue, Kearny • Professional Financial Services, 182 Prospect Avenue, North Arlington

Cinema Ice Cream Now Open!

Children Ages 5 - 14 Adults Accompanying Children Do Not Require Tickets

Door Prizes Presented by You Know Who

Rotary Gives Special Thanks to the Owner of Lincoln Theater Ahmed Anwar

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

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Top photo is the Atlantic Buckram Corp. (pictured sometime in the 1940s) which stood at 100 Riverview Ave. in North Arlington. We were unable to ﬁnd any information online about the company -- although we did learn what buckram is: “a stiff-ﬁnished fabric of cotton or linen used for interlinings in garments, for stiffening in millinery, and in bookbinding.” When the building was constructed, we do not know, but it is a prime example of Industrial Revolution architecture and resembles part of an 1867 laundry that was on nearby Stevens Place, but that is only conjecture. In the 1940s photo, it looks pretty shabby, and perhaps abandoned. This may have been a picture taken purely for posterity (us), for it was in the ‘40s that the borough was blossoming into residential suburbia and the old industries were closing or moving elsewhere. Today, Riverview Ave. is purely residential, but we could not locate any property numbered 100, so we must make do with a general view of the street on the 100 block. – Karen Zautyk

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013

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