2015 04 01 obs1 by The Observer Newspaper

April 1, 2015 • www.theobserver.com • Vol CXXVII, No. 45 Visit our

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COVERING: BELLEVILLE • BLOOMFIELD

Turf is the way to go

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

Acclaimed by their peers

KEARNY – Real grass seems to be headed out with the dinosaurs these days for Kearny’s municipal playing fields. The town is applying for $743,000 in Hudson County Community Block Grant funds to put toward the acquisition and installation of synthetic turf at Veterans’ Field on Belgrove Drive near Bergen Ave. Veterans’ Field accommodates one Little League baseball field and a combination football/softball field. Mayor Alberto Santos and the Town Council held a public hearing on the CDBG application at the March 16 council meeting and no one from the public had any comments on it. This is the second municipal recreation complex that the town is aiming to resurface, the other being the Gunnell Oval facility off Schuyler Ave., although the motivation for that project is keyed to an environmental cleanup of the site. When all is said and done, the proposed Oval improvements, according to the town’s engineering experts, could run upwards of $16 million. The fixup would include raising the elevation of the land, putting in a pump station and drainage system and a retainsee TURFING page

Photo by Karen Zautyk

Pictured at American Legion ceremony are (from l.): Kearny Police Chief John Dowie, Police Ofﬁcer of the Year Sgt. Paul Bershefski, Fireﬁghter of the Year Jason McCabe and Kearny Fire Chief Steve Dyl.

By Karen Zautyk Observer Correspondent KEARNY – American Legion Post 99 on Belgrove Drive was the setting Friday evening for a

ceremony honoring Kearny’s Finest of the Finest and Bravest of the Bravest for 2014. Police Officer of the Year is Sgt. Paul Bershefski. Firefighter of the Year is Jason McCabe.

As special as the awards are, they are made more so by the fact that the recipients are chosen not by the brass (as nice as that might be) but by their peers. Each department has a committee

‘Dream’ plan nixed by council By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent

BELLEVILLE – The township is retreating on one prospective real estate development front while pondering a 180-degree flip by the would-be builder on another. By a 7-0 vote last Tues-

day, March 24, the Belleville governing body rejected an ambitious redevelopment plan that pitched several thousands of housing units in towers extending up to 50 stories at the old Jacobs property at 630-632 Washington Ave. and stretching down to Main St. on the old Kidde property.

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In doing so, the Township Council turned aside a Planning Board recommendation made in December to approve the plan. In a pre-meeting public caucus, attorney Anthony J. Frese, representing O&R Urban Renewal Co. LLC, and its principal Joe Orlando, asked

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

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By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent

to HQ at 10 p.m. that a man had kidnapped a mother’s two babies and headed out of town. KEARNY – Organizing the moving hese days, Kearny is pieces “all fell to Tony” that paying attention to its night, Dowie recalled, and public safety personnel by 5 a.m., the suspect – and rosters. the infants – were traced Just a few weeks after hirthrough a cellular phone to ing six new cops, the Kearny North Bergen. governing body voted last Dowie also credited week to authorize promoSylvester with overcoming tions in both the Police and enormous odds by organFire Departments. izing a motorcade to rescue The Town Council named motorists stranded in South four fire captains and two Kearny by Superstorm police captains to fill slots Sandy. vacated via retirements Wagner, who joined the but in both cases, they are force in 2001, has developed viewed by department heads into what Dowie characas only temporary reprieves terized as “an outstanding as the wave of departures by street cop and investigator,” veteran employees continhaving also served in tactical ues. services and as an EMT. Nonetheless, an SRO Wagner applied those crowd of relatives and fellow investigative skills to help bluecoats and firefighters track the accused killer of a and well-wishers jammed the Kearny Ave. jeweler through Town Hall assembly chamthe DNA taken from a burbers to celebrate the occaglar’s tools that matched sion. the murder suspect, Dowie Mayor Alberto Santos said. And he has been comcharacterized the elevations mended for the work he has in rank as “overdue” and done while assigned to the lauded the recipients of the Photos by Ron Leir Hudson County Prosecutor’s new ranks as “deserving of New captains in Police and Fire Departments receive congratulations from Homicide Squad. the honors they’re receivloved ones and colleagues. “Timmy’s the kind of guy ing.” Dowie said that Sylvester has who seeks out any type of Those honorees are: Police pleted Academy training. never been one to shirk from training, sometimes on his “They were my little team,” Capts. Anthony Sylvester own dime, and currently he’s he added. Guys like Sylvester his police duties; in fact, he and Timothy Wagner; and going for certification as an always wanted to go where and Wagner. Fire Capts. David Russell, the action was, even as a su- arson investigator,” Dowie “Six made rank, three William Solano, Andrew said. perior officer, gladly taking received Cop of the Year O’Donnell and Arthur He’s also in training for awards, two made detectives on “a lot of night tours.” Bloomer. the Police Unity Tour, a “He never asked out of – not a bad batting average All go on the town payfour-day bicycle trek in May work – he always helped roll, as of April 1. The police for my team,” Dowie said. designed as a fundraiser to out,” the chief said. Dowie called Sylvester, a captains will earn an annual heighten awareness of law And even while serving 20-year veteran, “the Comebase pay of $141,519 and the enforcement officers who back Kid,” who, he noted, “a as a desk lieutenant, Dowie fire captains will take home have died in the line of duty. said, Sylvester may have year ago, was down on his $103,637 a year in base pay. Wagner is now assigned been “stuck inside answerfeet [due to a serious health Police Chief John Dowie to the department’s Internal issue] – the New England Pa- ing the phone,” but he still recalled that when he was Affairs unit. triots’ comeback in the Super functioned as an able field elevated to captain, he was commander under pressure, Bowl paled in comparison.” assigned to “train the new see CAPTAINS page That issue aside, however, like the night a call came in guys” after they had com-

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More library staffing sought By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent KEARNY – he Kearny Public Library, struggling to maintain its services in the face of diminished finances and staffing, is calling on the town for help. Library Board President Barbara Pollock appealed to

ficient staff, she added, “we don’t have enough hours.” In late 2012, the library cut back two evening hours on two weekdays at the Main Library and sliced a full day (Friday) at its branch facility. “There’s only one night [Wednesday] during the week we’re open until 8 p.m.,” Pollock said. “This isn’t good for people working.”

Photo by Ron Leir

Town Council hears a pitch by Library Board President Barbara Pollock for help.

the mayor and Town Council Tuesday to help take up the slack since the state Department of Community Affairs eliminated all of the library’s $17,000 in state aid. Municipal libraries are required to meet certain staffing levels tied to the populations they serve. Kearny was obliged to staff four full-time librarians for its population of nearly 40,000 but currently has only two. “It’s upsetting to us that we’re not meeting those state standards,” Pollock said. One librarian was among several civilian town employees laid off in 2011 and another retired. Neither has been replaced. And a full-time administrative clerk is retiring shortly. “We can only claim half the amount of [full- and part-time] employees we had in 2000,” Pollock said. As for the part-timers, of whom several are still in college or newly graduated, “As soon as they get a better job, they leave so there’s no responsibility for the long-term,” Pollock said. And, because there is insuf-

Despite these disadvantages, she said, the library has managed to acquire computers and new reading tables and lamps for its patrons. Additionally, she said, largely through the efforts of library director Josh Humphrey, it has expanded its mission as a “community” library by offering programs for adults and children and by completing its outdoor reading garden that will be used for musical, theatrical and poetry events. Given these successful efforts, Pollock concluded, “Let’s not have the state tell us we’re not worth funding.” Mayor Alberto Santos sought to assure Pollock that, “it’s not just the library” where budget restraints have been applied. Actually, the municipal budget introduced by the council March 16 increases dedicated local tax funding for the library, from $1,074,000 last year to $1,130,529 for this year. That adjustment should allow room for some attempt by the town to address the library’s personnel quandary and, indeed, Santos said the council plans to adopt an ordi-

nance that would increase pay rates for entry-level positions to $10 per hour in hopes that will entice employees to stay longer. As for adding full-time librarian slots, Santos said he has directed town CFO Shuaib Firozvi to meet with Humphrey to discuss “whether we should advertise, for example, for two library assistants or

a librarian or however we set about restoring some of the director’s staff.” If there was determined to be a need for a “bilingual librarian,” for instance, “that’s not a [job] title we now have and I don’t know what the [job] market would dictate for such a position,” the mayor added. Humphrey, who outlined his

personnel needs to the mayor and council during a closed caucus held after Tuesday night’s meeting, declined to discuss details with The Observer but noted that since he became director in April 2010, “we’ve lost four full-time employees and a couple of part-timers. It just comes to see LIBRARY page

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

Jaycees fete 5 for ‘distinguished service’ T NUTLEY – he Nutley Jaycees will present their 2015 Distinguished Service Awards at the 44th annual community awards banquet Thursday, April 9, at the Valley Regency, 1149 Valley Road, Clifton. The event starts with a cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $45 and can be

reserved by calling Dr. Steven Clarke at 973-235-1515. This year’s honorees are: Steven Picciano Jr.,Outstanding Young Man of the Year; Michael Nisivoccia, Public Health & Public Safety awardee; John J. Maiello, Educator of the Year; Michele Fleitell, Civic Affairs awardee; and Mayor Alphonse Petracco, Businessman of the Year.

Picciano Jr. is being feted for his role as a leader in the Holy Family Knights of Columbus and devoting many hours of service to the less fortunate. He founded and coordinated the annual Chef’s Night at Holy Family Church and runs a Bingo Night that raises money for special needs youth in Nutley. He has also organized trips to food kitchens in New-

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ark and run blood drives in Nutley. Picciano Jr. is director of business and development for the Church of St. Catherine of Siena & Dominican Friars Health Care Ministry of New York. Nisivoccia is a recently retired Nutley fire lieutenant who has served as the local FMBA president for the past 18 years. In 2001, he led the Nutley Fire Department’s Boot Drive that raised $5,000 for the New York City firefighters who perished in the 9/11 attack. He and colleagues served at Liberty State Park, decontaminating members of the public who fled New York after the attack. For two decades, Nisivoccia served as head coach/manager of the Nutley National/East Little League and started Little League trips to Cooperstown. In 2009, the team he coached

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was rated among the top four nationally. He also coached the Nutley Junior Raiders and was head coach and president of the league. And he supported the Nutley High School theater program by selling auditorium seat sponsors during the renovations. Maiello is band director for Nutley High School. His teaching responsibilities include concert and marching bands and multiple jazz ensembles. He’s completing his 24th year as a teacher. This past fall, the Nutley

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

Now he’s running Montclair schools By Ron Leir Observer Correspondent

school administrator that he will be working for an appointive school board whose members are appointed by ormer Kearny schools the mayor and whose budget chief Ron Bolandi has is struck by the Board of a new administrative School Estimate. school post, this time as He foresees no problems interim superintendent of adjusting to the system. schools for the Montclair What he will be facing, public schools. Bolandi, who was appointed however, is a local maelstrom over the recently by vote of the Montclair administered first round of Board of Education March the state-mandated PARCC 16, will begin his new job on (Partnership for the AssessApril 1 and his term will end ment of Readiness for College June 30, 2016. He’s replacing Penny MacCormack, who has & Careers) to grades 3 to 11. The Montclair Times reresigned to take an education cently reported that possibly job in New York. as many as 1,000 parents – in Superintendent’s pay in a district with close to 7,000 Montclair is $177,500 but Bolandi said his salary will be students – refused to allow their children to take the prorated, based on 260 days PARCC because of various of service, so it will be about concerns they have about the $680 per day. test. The district, according to For Bolandi, who served in the newspaper, has refused to Kearny from July 1, 2011, to share the number of opt-outs. Jan. 4, 2013, it will mark his “They’re going through a first time in 22 years as a chief

lot of controversy and I’m going to do my best to calm things down,” Bolandi said. “My main objective is to bring all the different groups together and stop the arguing.” He also pledged to release the opt-out figures. Still, when asked if he supported the use of PARCC, Bolandi didn’t try to hide his suspicion of the new testing vehicle. (Many Kearny parents reportedly kept their kids from taking the test although the district has yet to release the figures.) “It’s hard to jump on board,” said Bolandi, “when you don’t know what it’s going to do to adjust instruction as an assessment tool.” And compounding the uncertainty, he said, is the fact that, “The state [Department of Education] did a really bad job of presenting the PARCC to parents and educators. There’s been a lot of confu-

Observer file photo

Ron Bolandi

sion around it. And if I as an educator have problems understanding it, I can’t blame parents [for having their kids opt out].” Bolandi added that with all the emphasis placed by local districts preparing for the PARCC, regular classroom instruction took a back seat to the test. “If you’re going

to take this much time, you’d better have a Cadillac system,” he said. Before landing the Montclair post, Bolandi spent the past two years as interim superintendent in the Bedminster public school system. Asked if he wished he were back in Kearny, Bolandi said: “I do miss Kearny. I don’t miss the politics but I miss the people. There were a lot of good teachers, administrators and staff. And the kids were great but they were cheated by the crazy politics of the town. I always felt good about what I did there.” He said he still maintains contact with some Kearny educators “and it seems like they’re doing a good job under [Superintendent] Patte [Blood],” who was director of secondary school instruction under Bolandi. “I always want them to do well,” he said.

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thoughts&views THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

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.

Drive the lane you’re in & don’t foul up I

t’s down to the Final Four. No, not NCAA teams. (Since I don’t follow basketball, I have no idea who’s still playing, if anyone.) I am talking about the Final Four in the NJDHTS tournament. That acronym stands for the N.J. Division of Highway Traffic Safety. (Does Jersey have a Division of Local Streets Traffic Safety? It damn well should. Somebody talk to Christie, if he’s not wandering around somewhere in the Midwest.) Anyway, the Final Four in the NJDHTS “March Driving Madness” tournament are: Texting & Driving, Yielding, Move Over Law and Headlight Use. Speeding, Tailgating, Directional Use and Left Lane Travel have already bitten the blacktop. No surprise there. Jersey folk consider speeding, tailgating and left-lane travel to be constitutionally protected rights. As for misuse/nonuse of directional signals, many have no idea

such equipment exists. Before you become more confused, I shall explain. Recently, we received a NJDHTS press release about “March Driving Madness,” which is “an online poll that is asking the state’s drivers which bad driving habits need to be fixed on the Garden State’s roads.” My answer was, “All of them,” but that was not an option. The tournament idea apparently was spawned in February after the division posted queries on Facebook

responses while behind the wheel. As for the Move Over Law, I always move over whenever any type of emergency vehicle approaches with lights flashing and siren wailing. If I am on a local street, I move over and stop until the vehicle passes by, which, it being an emergency vehicle, takes about 6 seconds. Even so, invariably the driver behind me starts honking in fury. and Twitter regarding N.J. Headlights: Just as some Someday, I know I will drivers’ flaws. drivers don’t know their car become the victim of road Hundreds responded, with has directional signals, many rage. I can only hope that 28 different complaints. obviously are unaware of low the vehicle for which I have From these, eight (cited beams. moved over is a police car so above) were chosen for a Yielding requires courtesy, its occupant can arrest the tourney. More than 1,000 votes and yo! this is Jersey. (BTW, motorist who has shot me. were tallied, resulting in the on the Manhattan side of the For more about the “March four finalists. Lincoln Tunnel, a N.J.-bound Driving Madness” tournament “The bad habits with the multi-lane approach route (they may be down to the most votes will be the focus of now carries signs saying Terrible Two by now), visit public service announcements “TAKE TURNS.” I fear for the division’s web page, its that the division plans to drivers who may be unfamiliar Facebook page (New Jersey run on New Jersey’s radio with colloquial English. Think DHTS) or tweet @NJTrafficairwaves in the coming about it.) Safety. months,” the release noted. Re: texting and driving: The champion will be Personally, I think the Final I wonder how many voters announced April 6. Four are wise picks. in the poll sent their online – Karen Zautyk

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

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

Cops use Narcon to save life: NPD Police intervention prevented a suspected drug-induced fatality, Nutley Police Chief Thomas Strumolo said. A Nutley PD press release said that police responded to a 911 medical call for help on Sunday, March 15, at 11:15 a.m., and, upon arrival, they found a 48-year-old Hillside Ave. man unconscious. The release said that Officer Ted Duran determined “a possible overdose of prescribed medications and administered Naloxone (also known as Narcon), the intranasal spray which the NPD equipped officers with this year.” The release said the victim was taken to an area hospital for further treatment. His identify was not provided. Strumolo commended Durand for his quick action and noted that this incident marked the first such use of Narcan by Nutley PD. He said that police in several communities, similarly equipped with the spray, have saved numerous lives with it. Mayor/Police Director Alphonse Petracco said that Narcon has great value, adding that now first responders – along with medics and doctors – can offer overdose victims a higher chance at survival. ••• Between March 21 and 27, the NPD responded to 28 medical calls, 15 motor vehicle accidents, 15 disputes, 16 suspicious incidents and the following:

March 21 The manager of a Harrison St. business reported an attempted fraud by a Latino who reportedly tried to buy Visa gift cards by using several different credit cards for which he could not produce ID. The customer then fled, leaving a credit card and a wallet with the identification of its owner who later told police that the wallet had been stolen earlier that day from a gym in Clifton. Detectives are following up.

was released to Newark PD, Nieves was issued additional summonses also charging him with refusal to take an Alcotest, careless driving and improper passing a double yellow line. March 25 A Hillside Ave. resident reported receiving a voicemail from someone claiming to be an IRS representative giving them final notice before being penalized monetarily for unpaid taxes. Police were unable to contact the caller. ••• The owner of a vehicle parked on Clement St. reported that someone entered their vehicle and removed a plastic jar containing change.

March 22 Police responded to a Park Ave. location on a report of a low-hanging fire escape ladder. The victim told police they were walking east on Park when they hit their head on the ladder. Police managed March 26 to push the ladder up and Police responded to a secure it. Washington Ave. location on ••• A Centre St. resident reported they had received a call from their neighbor that their apartment door was damaged and forced open. Police asked the resident to check if anything was missing. Detectives are investigating. March 24 Anibal Nieves, 34, of Newark, was stopped after he was reportedly driving erratically on a local street. Nieves was arrested on a DUI charge and taken to HQ where officers learned he had an active warrant from Newark. Before he

/theobservernj Ken Davie

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a report that a man wearing a tan Seahawks jacket and blue jeans was seen walking out of a neighbor’s driveway. Police arrested Edward Pancaro, 45, of Newark, after learning he was wanted on an active warrant from Clifton. Pancaro was turned over to Clifton PD. ••• Police were dispatched to a Washington Ave. business after a caller reported seeing two men in a white Ford van at the property. Police pulled over the van and, in questioning the pair, discovered that the driver, Danny Earp, 54, of Newark, was wanted on three warrants from Newark, one from Belleville and one from Parsippany. Earp was also given summonses for failure to exhibit a license and driving while suspended/revoked. He was turned over to Bel-

leville PD. ••• Police conducted a motor vehicle check on Centre St. and arrested the driver, Geraldine Oquendo, 26, of Clifton, on charges of suspended license, expired registration and active warrant from Elizabeth. She was released after posting bail pending court dates. March 27 Police performed a traffic stop on River Road of a vehicle that came up as having an expired N.J. registration. Aldo Duran, 51, of Newark, was ticketed for driving without a license and expired registration. Police said he had two active warrants from North Bergen. He was released after posting bail pending court appearances. – Ron Leir

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

KPD blotter: You can run but . . . A 16-year-old Kearny youth who was where he should not have been could have ended up with a trespassing charge. Instead, he ended up with that and several others, including possession of drugs with intent to distribute. Lesson: When police say, “Stop!,” stop. KPD Chief John Dowie said the youth, who is barred from being anywhere in or around Kearny High School, was spotted on the school property at 12:30 p.m. last Wednesday, March 25, by Officer Jack Grimm. When the officer approached, the kid ran, ignoring orders to halt, Dowie said. He fled south on Devon St., west on Garfield Ave., across Kearny Ave. and down Afton St., with Grimm chasing him on foot the entire way, until the officer lost sight of him at Afton and Windsor Sts. However, police knew that

he lived on Windsor. Sgt. John Taylor and Officer Adriano Marques went to the address, got permission to enter the building and found the door to the teen’s apartment open. Which conveniently permitted the scent of marijuana to waft into the hallway, police said. Inside, in plain view, was a large clear plastic bag, which was reportedly found to contain 23 smaller bags full of suspected weed. Police left the building, but Marques kept his eyes open, observed the suspect walking in the area and took him into custody. The teen was charged with defiant trespass, resisting arrest, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, and possession with intent to distribute. He was released to a guardian pending a court appearance.

Esposito went to the store and viewed security videos of the suspects, including a female who allegedly had stolen a phone charger. Police said the driver, Daniella Miranda, 19, of March 21 Kearny, was ID’d as the thief Officer Kevin Arnesman was on patrol near Davis Ave. and was charged with shopliftand King St. at 5:30 p.m. when ing. Gleason recognized the his random license-plate passenger, Jalen Diaz, 18, of reader “pinged” on a passing 2002 Honda Civic, noting that Kearny, from prior interaction and confirmed that he had its registered owner had a suspended license. The driver/ an outstanding contempt-ofcourt, no-bail warrant from owner, Carissa Savage, 33, of North Arlington, was charged the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, police said. He was with the offense. taken into custody and the HCSO was notified. March 23 ••• At 5 p.m., units were Vice detectives at Chestnut advised that the occupants of and Hoyt Sts., at 5:10 p.m., a 1992 Toyota had just fled a shoplifting at Kmart. Sgt. Peter saw a man standing between two parked cars, inspecting Gleason, with Officer Phil a small plastic bag. As they Finch as backup, located and approached, he tossed it to stopped the car at S. Midland the curb, but it was recovered. and Passaic Aves. Meanwhile, Officer Malinda Victor Colon, 20, of Kearny, was charged with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. ••• Other recent reports from the Kearny police blotter included the following:

headquarters received a complaint that a Ford pickup was wandering the Walmart lot, its occupants begging for money. Officers John Travelino and Christian Medina, arriving in separate patrol cars, boxed it in. Police said the driver, Danny Eli, 29, of Queens, N.Y., was found to have a suspended license and three warrants: a $2,500 criminal complaint out of Woodbridge and $100-bail MV violations from Newark and Cranford. He was arrested and also charged with driving while suspended, driving an uninsured vehicle and failure to have a car seat for an infant. (Police said there was a baby lying across the laps of two women in the back seat.) The truck was impounded and towed. One of the women and the baby were escorted into the store so she could make arrangements to be picked up. The other apparently accompanied Eli to HQ.

March 25 Shortly before midnight,

see KPD page

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

34-month sentence for embezzler KEARNY – A receptionist who embezzled nearly half-a-million dollars from a medical office in Kearny and used fraudulent credit cards to obtain more than $200,000 in goods and services was sentenced last week to 34 months in prison, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced. Gwendolyn Muller, 53, formerly of Kearny, had pleaded guilty in Newark federal court in October to one count each of embezzlement, credit card fraud and tax evasion. At the

time, authorities said she faced up to 25 years -- 10 each on the fraud and embezzlement counts, five for tax evasion. The 34-month term was handed down March 24 by U.S. District Judge William J. Martini, who also ordered Muller to pay restitution of $556,000. She will face three years of supervised release following incarceration. While employed at the medical practice from 2007 through 2011, authorities reported, Muller used her position to take, cash and conceal

Don’t get distracted while you’re driving Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura is advising motorists that officers from his department will conduct Distracted Driver Enforcement Operations in Nutley, Belleville, Bloomfield and all of Essex County’s 19 other municipalities from April 1 through April 21. “The number of persons killed or maimed as the direct result of distracted driving is truly staggering,” Fontoura said. “Inattentive driving persists despite educational, awareness and enforcement efforts by public safety personnel. We are hopeful that this initiative will serve as a wake-up call to all drivers.” The most recent statistics reveal that 3,328 people were killed and more than 421,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted

driver in 2012, the sheriff reported. “In New Jersey, we’re making inroads,” he noted. “In 2013, there were 48 fewer deaths that the 590 in 2012. We peaked in 2011 with 627 deaths.” “Unfortunately, many drivers continue to text and drive and use their cell phones while their vehicle is in motion,” the sheriff said. “If you’re in this business long enough, you’ll see it all. We see people eating their breakfast, reading their newspaper, applying makeup and watching videos while driving. It’s insane and unsafe.” The county’s monthlong enforcement initiative is being funded by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

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more than $446,000 in checks paid by insurance companies for services to patients. Court documents noted that, as the receptionist, she handled the mail and had unsupervised access to the office computer system, which she used to conceal the embezzlement. During the same period,

Muller also fraudulently obtained 10 credit cards in the name of a principal of the practice and used these to charge approximately $218,000 in personal goods and services. Fishman’s office said Muller also admitted to filing a false tax return to evade taxes on the illegally obtained income.

Authorities did not disclose Muller’s post-Kearny place of residence. Fishman›s office also told The Observer that, since it was not part of the public record, they could not reveal the name of the medical office where she had worked. – Karen Zautyk

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

space. “Help couldn’t get to them, and they were running Last week’s program was out of air,” Dyl recalled. But, only the first of several comagainst the odds, they sucmunity ceremonies that will ceeded in the rescue. “We very spotlight the duo. well could have had three FireAs Fire Chief Steve Dyl told fighters of the Year,” the chief the audience in the Legion hall, noted. But the Meritorious Acts for both police and firefightReview Board chose McCabe. ers, “It’s all about rising to the And it’s safe to say, the other challenge.” two don’t begrudge it at all. In McCabe’s case, the chalHeroes are like that. lenge included a particularly McCabe, who joined the KFD hazardous rescue of a man in February 1999, is assigned trapped in a Schuyler Ave. fire to Engine 1 on Davis Ave., the in February 2014. He and two department’s primary mutual other firefighters entered the aid company. He has previburning home searching for the ously been cited for performing victim who they had been told life-saving CPR and for water was somewhere in the baserescues in the Passaic River. ment. That basement turned Recently, he completed trainout to be a hazard in itself ing for the KPD’s Swift Water -- with narrow hallways, low Rescue Team. ceilings and doorways less than He has also volunteered 6-feet high. his time on humanitarian aid The firefighters used a missions, to help victims of thermal-imaging camera to Hurricane Katrina, as well as find the man, who was trapped tornado victims in Missouri. in a bedroom. McCabe was the And, Dyl noted, “he spent one who located him. Then countless hours at the Jersey they had to get the victim out, Shore after Sandy,” helping through the same cramped people rebuild their homes. He

HONORS from

also built playgrounds as part of the Sandy Ground project, launched to honor the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy. “He reminds me of the Energizer Bunny,” Dyl said. Prior to becoming a fireman (following in the footsteps of his father, Joseph, who had been a battalion chief in Jersey City), McCabe served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1991 to ‘95, with deployments to Somalia, Okinawa, Korea and the Mediterranean. He and his wife, Kristin, have three children: daughters Tyler, 17, and Lindsay, 13, and son Eric, 8. In an interview prior to the awards ceremony, Dyl had cited McCabe’s “character and work ethic.” The chief told us, “He gives you 110%. When you’re going into a difficult situation, he’s the guy you want to have with you.” Police Chief John Dowie expressed similar sentiments at the awards event, noting that the police officers and firefight-

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ers who receive the honor are the ones “who go above and beyond, time and again.” Police Officer of the Year Sgt. Paul (“Bear”) Bershefski joined the KPD in 2005, served in the trouble-shooting patrol division and was promoted to sergeant in May 2012. He is a member of the Tactical Services Unit and a certified firearms instructor. Over the years, Dowie noted, he has received awards for participation in narcotics arrests and in 2009 was recognized by the Valor Committee after, while off-duty, he saved the life of a man who had been choking to death. He also has received the Meritorious Service Award, two Certificates of Merit and two Unit Citations. Like McCabe, Bershefski was recognized for his overall job performance in 2014, but he also had a particularly notable incident on his record. And it occurred at the very start of the year, on New Year’s Day 2014. At 7 a.m., a “known gang member from Newark,” armed with a .45, invaded a Tappan St. residence, terrorized, assaulted and robbed the family and then fled in their Lexis, after taking the keys. He lost control of the car on Devon St., abandoned it and started running. It was Bershefski who spotted the suspect and attempted to detain him at Central and Passaic Aves., at the border of Kearny and East Newark. But the thug kept running, heading across the Clay St. Bridge. with the officer in foot pursuit. Bershefski closed the distance and ordered him to freeze. At which point, the man

apparently drew the gun from his waistband -- and threw it into the Passaic. (All this could have ended much differently.) He continued running, with Bershefski following him to an abandoned lot on the Newark side of the river. Police surrounded the site and the suspect was located and taken into custody. Also located on the property was ammo for a .45. Bershefski’s handling of the situation was “just one of his many meritorious acts,” Dowie noted. As for community service, the sergeant was an original organizer of Kearny’s Police Unity Tour Bicycle Team. He still rides in the yearly event, which now attracts nearly 2,000 officers from across the U.S. Participants cycle to the Police Memorial in Washington, D.C., to raise money for the families of officers killed in the line of duty. They now collect more than $1 million annually. Bershefski and his wife, Heather, have two sons: Patrick, 9, and Brendan, 5. His father, Paul, is a retired N.J. State Police lieutenant, and his mother, Patricia, is a retired Harrison/ Kearny schoolteacher. Bershefski grew up in Harrison, attended Queen of Peace High School, and majored in sociology and criminology at Montclair State University. In 2004, after graduating from the Essex County Police Academy, he joined the Harrison PD. But he transferred to Kearny early the following year. “I stole him from Harrison,” Dowie said. “He’s the best thing I’ve ever stolen.”

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

received a commendation for giving CPR to a fire victim. On the Fire Department Solano, a member of the deside, Fire Chief Steven Dyl partment since 2000, is anothcommended Russell, who was er firefighter “always willing hired in early 1999, as “the to help,” Dyl said. Currently type of guy who always does assigned to Fire HQ , Solano is what you ask and then some.” a member of the Swift Water As part of the Rapid InterRescue Team. He was awarded vention Crew, Russell and his a citation for his work during crewmates responded to a Super Storm Sandy in 2012. Harrison fire that erupted durO’Donnell, who joined ing the St. Patrick’s Day Parade the department in 1999, was in March 2013 and helped named 2013 Firefighter of rescue five members of the the Year in recognition of his Jersey City Fire Department work in helping rescue two who were assisting at the fire individuals trapped at a Devon scene. And, in 2007, Russell St. fire. He was also cited for CAPTAINS from

Foster tribute upcoming

his work during Super Storm Sandy. And he received an exceptional duty citation in connection with dousing an early morning Laurel Ave. house fire. He has also served as a contract negotiator for the local FMBA. Bloomer, a KFD member since 1988, “comes from a true firefighter family,” Dyl said. Bloomer’s grandfather, Knowlton Pierce, became Kearny’s first career fire chief in 1921 and Bloomer’s two sons Andrew and Sean and daughter Danielle are members of the Brick Fire Department.

Bloomer helped set up the KFD’s ambulance program, is a certified SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) repair technician, has helped design three KFD rigs and serves with the KFD’s Technical Rescue Team. On his off-time, Bloomer is an instructor with the Fire Department Institute Corps in Indianapolis and is a member of the N.J. Task Force 1, which performs urban search and rescue service. He served at the WTC site after the 9/11 attack. Dyl said that all of the new

captains will be facing “a pretty serious challenge” in the upcoming months because, “by July 1, we’re going to have a combined 345 years of [firefighter] experience walk out the door.” Between February and July, 13 members of the KFD will have retired, leaving the department three short of the 25 captains recommended under the department’s Table of Organization, Dyl said. By July 1, the department will be down to 78 members – far short of the 102 called for by the T.O., he said.

BRADY, BRADY & REILLY

WELCOMES

Larry Kirwan

Rocker Larry Kirwan will bring his exploration of “the father of American music” Stephen Foster and 1850s New York to the Bergen Community College Ender Hall Laboratory Theatre, Paramus, in April. Kirwan, who founded Irish rock band Black 47, will play two shows Thursday, April

16, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. In “Stephen Foster in the Five Points,” Kirwan will recall the composer’s music and experiences in lower Manhattan. Tickets are $35 for the general public, $20 for senior citizens and $10 for students. To purchase tickets, visit tickets.bergen.edu or call 201447-7428.

Sincerely Yours

James C. Welsh

RETIRED SUPERVISING JUDGE OF THE WORKER’S COMPENSATION COURT TO THE FIRM James C. Welsh retired Supervising Judge of Compensation, has joined Brady, Brady & Reilly of Kearny as head of the Workers Compensation Department. Judge Welsh has more than fortythree years of experience in handling workers’ compensation cases with the last twenty-two as a Judge of Workers’ Compensation in Essex and Hudson counties. At retirement he was the Supervising Judge in Hudson County.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

around town Belleville

services and meet the new pastor, the Rev. Glenn L. Boisclair. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services begin at 6 p.m. Easter Sunday service is at 9 a.m. Kearny Lions Club hosts a brotherhood luncheon Wednesday, April 22, at noon, at the Salvation Army, 443 Chestnut St. For more information, call Joann at 201-9983018. Kearny Public Library, 318 Kearny Ave., screens: “The Sound of Music” (G / 174 minutes) Tuesday, April 7, at 1 p.m.; “Into the Woods” (PG / 125 minutes) Friday, April 10, at 1 p.m.; and “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” (PG / 81 minutes), Saturday, April 11, at 11 a.m. All films will be shown on the library’s lower level. Donuts and light refreshments will be served. Admission is free. For more information on any library programs, call 201-998-2666 or visit www. kearnylibrary.org.

girls, aged 14-20. The Crew is youth-led, but relies on knowledgeable, experienced and trained adult men and women volunteers for sound guidance and advice. Meetings are held at 8 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the United Presbyterian Church of Lyndhurst, 511 Ridge Road (entrance off Page Ave.), across from St. Michael’s Church. Among the outdoor activities are: horseback riding, camping and BBQs. Interested youth and parents are invited to call Crew President Joe Shinnick at 201 275-2884 or email him at jmusic171@aol.com. For more information, visit beascout. scouting.org. The N.J. Meadowlands ComBloomfield mission holds its First-SundayAdult crafters of all ages of-the-Month nature walk, are welcome to join a craft with the Bergen County Auduprogram at Bloomfield Public bon Society, Sunday, April 5, 10 Library, 90 Broad St., April 8, a.m. to noon, in DeKorte Park, 6 to 7:30 pm., to make denim starting outside the Meadowpouches. Bring an old pair lands Environment Center. of jeans (2 legs would yield Participants are asked to sign six to eight pouches), thread, a standard liability release needles, scissors, buttons, etc. that is good for NJMC/BCAS Registration is required. To Lyndhurst events throughout the year. To register, call the Reference The Humane Society of Ber- register, email Don Torino of Desk at 973-566-6200, ext. 602. gen County, 221-223 Stuyvesant the BCAS at greatauk4@gmail. Ave., has a supply of dog food, com or call him at 201-230Harrison Holy Cross Church sponsors both canned and dry, available 4983. to anyone who, due to unemLyndhurst Public Library the following trips: ployment, disability or any Children’s Room, 355 Valley • The group takes a nonother financial difficulty, can- Brook Ave., hosts the followstop United Airlines flight ing events: from Newark Airport Wednes- not afford to feed their dog. Just stop by or call 201-896 • Grades pre-k to 2 are day, April 29, at 7:15 a.m., to invited for a walk-in storytime Las Vegas, and returns Thurs- 9300 for more information. Hours: Monday and Saturday, Mondays, Wednesdays and day, May 5, at 6:15 a.m. The Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. No group will stay at Harrah’s Ho- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; and registration is required. tel and Casino. The $771 perSunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Children ages 3 to 10 can person cost covers air, hotel Lyndhurst Health Departlearn about caring for our and taxes. A $250 per-person ment conducts a free eye planet with Muscle Man deposit is required to guarscreening, including a check Mike's "Going Green" (Reantee reservations. Call Gina for glaucoma, for Lyndhurst duce, Reuse, Recycle) Show at European Travel, 973-484residents ages 18 and over, Wednesday, April 15, at 3:30 4023, or Joan at 973-481-2434. p.m. Registration is required. • The group takes a bus trip Wednesday, April 15, at 1 p.m. For an appointment, call 201- To register, call 201-804-2478. to the Taj Mahal in Atlantic Lyndhurst Knights of City Sunday, April 12. The bus 804-2500. Kingsland Lyndhurst AARP Columbus host “A Taste of leaves from Holy Cross School Chapter 4866 sponsors its Poland” Saturday, April 18, at 2 at 10 a.m. Refreshments will annual entertainment night, p.m., at the Senior Center, 250 be served in the school basement starting 9:15 a.m. Cost is Tricky Tray and raffles Thurs- Cleveland Ave. Tickets are $15. day, April 16. Doors open at 6 For tickets, call Steve Cortes at $30 with a $30 rebate (ID rep.m. The show features music 201-657-0800 or Nick Garafalo quired). For reservations, call of the ‘50s and ‘60s. No alcoat 201-893-2849. Joan at 973-481-2434 or Maria hol is permitted. Admission Lyndhurst Girl Scouts, Lyndat 973-481-1799 (Leave name, is $20. For tickets and more hurst Girls Association and phone number and number information, call Jo Oleske at the Township will honor Libattending). 201-438-2118 or Kay Roberts at bie Lindsay for her 88 years of 201-438-3611. service and leadership in the Kearny Lyndhurst Boy Scout Troop Lyndhurst Girl Scouts SaturGrace Lutheran Church, 223 86 has launched its co-ed day, April 25, at 11 a.m. (rain or Ridge Road, invites the comVenture Crew for all boys and shine), at the Girl Scout meetmunity to attend Holy Week The Woman’s Club of Belleville meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at its clubhouse, 51 Rossmore Place. Prospective members are welcome. For more information, contact Terry Landon at 973-751-6529. Belleville Elks Lodge 1123, 254 Washington Ave., holds a blood drive Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donors must be age 17 or older, be in good health and weigh at least 120 pounds. All donors must eat a light meal before donating blood, bring a signed form of identification and know their social security number.

ing house, 238 Livingston Ave. For more information, email teresa.casadonte@gmail.com. Ladies Auxiliary of the Masonic Club hosts its annual Tricky Tray on Sunday, April 12, at the Masonic Club, 316 Riverside Ave. Doors open at noon. Calling starts at 1 p.m. Admission is $5. For more information, call Kathy at 201997-1997.

North Arlington

North Arlington Seniors, Inc. (Tuesday Club) sponsor a trip to Sands Casino in Pennsylvania April 9. The group leaves from Borough Hall at 9 a.m. Non-members are welcome. Call Rose Florio at 201-991-2423. North Arlington Public Library, 210 Ridge Road, has passes for the Museum of the City of New York. Each pass allows two adults and four children access to this museum. Requirements to borrow: $50 cash deposit and an adult library card in good standing.  http://www.mcny.org/ The library also offers passes to the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in New York City. One pass allows up to six people admission to the museum. Requirements to borrow: $50 cash deposit and an adult library card in good standing. http://www.intrepidmuseum.org. To check availability, visit or call the library at 201-955-5640. The North Arlington Volunteer Emergency Squad hosts its annual Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 4, at noon, at North Arlington Middle School on Beech St. The event includes games, prizes, and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny, so don’t forget your cameras! If it rains, the event will be held in the gym. North Arlington Public Library, 210 Ridge Road. announces the following programs: • Story Time, open to ages 2 to 5, takes place every Wednesday at 11:45 a.m. April 15 Story Time will be held at Barnes and Noble in Clifton. • The sixth annual George Miller Art Show is set for Thursday, April 2, at 6 p.m. • The Lego Club for grades 1 and up meets Tuesday, April 7,

at 6:30 p.m. • Spring Story Time and Craft for ages 4 to 6 takes place Thursday, April 9, at 2 p.m. • YA Movie Day, open to grades 6 and up, is set for Friday, April 10, at noon. • Music and Movement, open to ages 2 to 4, is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, at 11:45 a.m. • Flat Stanley program with the West Hudson Art and Theater Company for grades K to 5 is set for Tuesday, April 14, at 4:30 p.m.

Nutley

The Women’s Initiative of Nutley presents the Art Exhibit of Women’s History Month at the Nutley Public Library, 93 Booth Drive, throughout March and April. The exhibit spotlights the oil, watercolor, pastel, pencil and photography of local artists Susan Farr, Jackie Hanlon, Margot Parker, Teresa Ruffo, Edith Sirmons and Dianne Louise Wilson. All have won awards in local, regional and national competitions. Nutley Public Library, 93 Booth Drive, announces: • Children of all ages and their caregivers are invited to put on their pajamas and meet in the children’s room for P.J. Story Time on Mondays, April 6, 20 and 27 at 7 p.m. Registration is not required. • Patrons are invited to play bridge at the library every Tuesday at 1 p.m. No registration is required. • Lego Club for Kids, open to ages 7 and up, meets on Thursday, April 9, at 3:30 p.m. Registration is required. • Two-Year-Old Story Time, open only to Nutley children ages 24 to 35 months, is set for Friday, April 10, at 9:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Registration is required. • The next installment of the First Friday Films series continues with a screening of “And So It Goes” (PG-13), starring Michael Douglas, Friday, April 10, at 2 p.m. • Author Anthony Buccino will sign and discuss his new book, “Nutley Notables: The Men and Women Who Made a see AROUND TOWN page

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

sports&recreation

Kardinals loom as one of Hudson County’s diamond dandies

SPORTS VIEW Contact Jim at Ogsmar@aol.com

Harrison softball turns to veteran coach Ronga as leader After spending last spring away from coaching softball for the first time in more than 20 years, Carmine Ronga knew one thing. He was bored silly. “I was sitting around the house and doing nothing,” said Ronga, who was the head softball coach at Hoboken High School for a quarter century. “I was going out of my mind.” Ronga said that he religiously reads the local papers and saw advertisements for schools looking for a softball coach. “I applied for some of them and I got a lot of reactions from them,” said Ronga, who won his share of HCIAA Seglio Division championships and Hoboken’s first-ever NJSIAA state sectional championship back in 2007. “Out of all the schools that contacted me, Harrison was the most intriguing.” Ronga admitted that he didn’t know much about Harrison. “I was unaware of the school’s facilities,” Ronga said. “When I first came out to the school, I didn’t realize it was brand new. I just fell

in love with the place on first sight. I felt so comfortable here, so that’s why I took the job.” So despite the fact that the Blue Tide won all of five games last year, Ronga was ready for the next chapter in his coaching life. “I knew it was going to be a challenge,” Ronga said. “But I was looking for a place that would interest me, a place that would get my juices flowing again. It was a great fit. The school wants to have a competitive softball program. Kim (McDonough-Huaranga, the school’s athletic director) is enthusiastic about wanting to have a good softball program. I was taken aback by the facility. It’s the best kept secret in Hudson County. It’s conducive to bringing the best student/athletes out to play softball.” Added Ronga, “It’s going to be a work in progress, but I feel that there’s a lot of promise here.” One of the things that Ronga requested was to start a softball program see VIEW page

Photo by Jim Hague

The Kearny baseball team will only go as far as their pitching will carry them. From l. are Connor McClelland, Josue Rodriguez, Corey Sawyer, head coach Frank Bifulco, Louis Sandomenico and Ryan Tully.

By Jim Hague Observer Sports Writer

last season. Sawyer won four games and posted a 1.27 earned run average, but three of the wins were memorable, because he Kearny High School he fired a perfect game and baseball team won 13 two no-hitters. games last spring, but “It was nice that he threw head coach Frank Bifulco three no-hitters last year, but knows that the Kardinals will that means nothing now,” Bibe vastly improved over a year fulco said. “He has work to do ago. and needs to continue. I think “I think we can build on what he’s become more of a comwe did last year,” said Bifulco, plete pitcher. He’s made major who enters his fourth year as head coach. “Hopefully, we can strides in the offseason. He’s continue to rise. We’re not tak- worked on all of his pitches and he’s ready to control the ing any steps back. We have a team that can contend and the game.” Senior Josue Rodriguez is kids believe that as well. We also back. The right-handed can’t hide anymore. Things are Rodriguez won three games a little different now than what last year. we’re used to. The expecta“He knows he hasn’t pitched tions are higher.” his ‘A’ game yet,” Bifulco said. The Kardinals welcome back “He came in last year as our junior left-hander Corey Sawace and has the ability to be yer, who made a huge splash

our ace. With those two guys, Corey and Josue, we feel we match up with anyone else in the county. We expect to win when they pitch. Josue pitches to his strength and leads by example.” Junior Connor McClelland is the team’s next best starter. The right-handed McClelland is a talented hurler with a lot of potential. “We’re looking for him to step up and take some of the slack off Corey and Josue,” Bifulco said. “He’s going to be a good pitcher.” So will sophomore righty Ryan Tully, who has all the talent in the world, both on the mound and at the plate. Senior lefty Louis Sandomenico and senior righty see KARDINALS next page

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

KARDINALS from

Adam French round out the extremely deep pitching staff. “I like the depth we have,” Bifulco said. “The younger ones are going to come. We know we have guys who can throw and can be successful.” The team’s catcher is senior Aaron Gonzalez, who spent last year as the backup to former Kardinal standout T.J. Witt. The first base duties will be shared by senior Johnathon Silva and junior Joseph Esteves. Both have shown promise during the limited preseason workouts and scrimmages. French will spend most of his time at second base. Junior Joseph Baez, the leading scorer on the Kearny basketball team this winter, is the baseball team’s shortstop. “He’s a very good baseball player,” Bifulco said. “He just needs to stay focused and needs to stay composed all the time. If he can understand that, we’re going to be a much better team.” Rodriguez will play third base when he’s not pitching. He batted .372 last year. Senior Mike Hyde is the starting left fielder. Hyde bat-

ted better than .330 last year, but more importantly he had a .615 on base percentage. “When he gets on base, a lot of good things can happen for us,” Bifulco said. “He’s our leadoff hitter or No. 2 hitter. He’s become a nice leader for us. The rest of the team naturally gravitates to him.” Sawyer will play centerfield when he’s not on the mound. When Sawyer is pitching, junior John O’Neill mans centerfield. McClelland plays right field. He batted .325 as a sophomore last year. Junior Benedict Cowan, Jr. is the Kardinals’ resident jack-ofall-trades, seeing time in the outfield and as a designated hitter. “I’m looking for him to do a nice job with his role,” Bifulco said. The Kardinals also have Alex Molina playing a utility role and Zak Mostafa as the team’s back-up catcher and another utility bench player. The aforementioned Tully will serve a key role, not only as a pitcher, but as a second baseman and shortstop as well. “He can play any position well,” Bifulco said. “I think

good teams need to have good bench players. I think we have guys off our bench who can help us.” The Kardinals are slated to open the 2015 season against Memorial Wednesday at 4 p.m. They also face St. Anthony Friday and square off against neighboring rival Harrison Saturday afternoon. It pits former teammates and close friends Bifulco and Jairo Mendez against each other. Mendez is the head coach at Harrison. “Anything I miss, Jairo lets me know,” Bifulco said. The Kardinals have a ton of potential. “The expectations are high,” Bifulco said. “I expect us to make a deep run in the county tournament. I know we can do better in the states. They know what’s expected of them. They know they have promise. We have a good lineup, good pitching. We also have a tough schedule, so we have to see what happens.” Count on the Kardinals to be more of a regular competitive force in the Hudson County Interscholastic Athletic League and the NJSIAA state playoffs.

You can ‘Grow a Row’ in community garden Commissioner Steven Rogers and Commissioner Joseph Scarpelli are proud to announce the newest collaboration among the Nutley Health Department, Greenutley and the Nutley AmVets to lay the groundwork for a new Nutley Community Garden. Joni Mitchell would be proud: Instead of paving paradise, this initiative intends to return paradise to the parking lot. Plans are underway to install 12 above-ground planting beds on property owned by the Nutley AmVets, located at Park Avenue and Walnut Street. Residents will have the opportunity to plant their own plot with the stipulation to “Grow a Row”, in which one row of produce will be grown and donated to the American Red Cross Nutley Food Pantry and/or the Vincent Method-

ist Care Kitchen. Plots are not just available to individuals: Nutley organizations such as scout troops, civic organizations, or any other group interested in gardening, are welcome and encouraged to apply. The Nutley Community Garden will be promoted as a bike/walk destination and will include a storage shed and bike rack to accommodate gardeners. Residents and/or organizations interested in obtaining a plot or seeking more information on this project should contact the Health Department at 973-2844976. Plots will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The garden is funded by a grant from the Partners for Health Foundation.

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year’s team that struggled. “But they have come in with a new attitude,” Ronga said. in the middle school. That has “Maybe it’s because there’s a been taken care of, with former new coach and it’s a new team. I Harrison basketball and softball don’t know.” standout Kim Nicosia Morillo Ronga has yet to decide on a taking over those reins. No. 1 pitcher just yet. He’s still “I wanted to be able to looking at senior Fayth Hartchange the culture a little with kopf and sophomore Alexia making softball a good alternaGarrison. tive for the girls,” Ronga said. “It’s pretty even right now “The turnout was fantastic. We between the two of them,” had 57 girls try out for the high Ronga said. “Right now, I’ll split school teams and another 30 them. It all comes down to who or so were there for the middle throws more strikes. That one school. That’s a tremendous will get the nod.” turnout for a school this size. So The catcher is senior Gina the interest is definitely there. Miranda, who has the perfect Hopefully, we can keep the makeup to be a backstop. She’s interest there.” energetic and alive behind the Ronga has already thoroughly dish. enjoyed his time with the girls “She’s also a very good athof Harrison. lete,” Ronga said. “It’s really brought me back Senior Kayla Ortiz is the to life,” Ronga said. “The kids team’s first baseman and she are like sponges. They want to has a distinction. learn. They hustle for eve“We call her ‘The Genrything. They all have great eral,’ because she’s the one in attitudes. It makes it a pleasure charge,” Ronga said. “She’s defito go to practice every day. nitely the team leader. I can see They’re so enthusiastic. They her someday becoming a coach. bought into our strategy and That’s how much she’s into it. philosophy. It’s really a great She really helps me out.” bunch of kids.” Senior Renee Clifford is the Ronga said that he has inherteam’s second baseman, moving ited six players back from last over from shortstop where she VIEW from

Photo by Jim Hague

The Harrison softball program is ready to begin a new chapter with new head coach Carmine Ronga, who was the head coach at Hoboken for more than two decades. From l. are Kayla Ortiz, Renee Clifford, Ronga, Gina Miranda, Kayla Montilla and Fayth Hartkopf.

played last year. Sophomore Betzaida Gutierrez is a newcomer, a transfer from South America who has really grabbed Ronga’s heart and attention. “She’s probably our best athlete,” Ronga said. “She’s super fast.” Freshman Jailyn Montilla is the third baseman. She’s one of three Montilla sisters on the Harrison softball roster this season. Junior Destiny Martinez is the leading candidate to start in left field, although Garrison might get the nod if she’s not

pitching. Senior Kayla Montilla is the Blue Tide’s centerfielder. She’s the second of the three sisters and maybe the most talented. “I think she can be our best all-around player,” Ronga said. “She has a lot of speed. She’s our leadoff hitter, so she has to get on base. She has a great personality and she’s a pleasure to coach.” The third sister is right fielder Abigail Montilla, who is a junior. You know the old saying, “Three is better than one.” Well, it fits for Ronga and the Blue Tide.

The Blue Tide has a host of players to call from on the bench, namely senior infielder Arianna Estremera, junior infielder Caitlin Bond and freshman first baseman Chelsea Ramos. Ronga is particularly pleased with freshman Kierrah Lucas, the niece of former Jets quarterback and current TV analyst Ray Lucas. “She’s just a very good athlete,” Ronga said of Lucas, who will also be developed as a pitcher. The Blue Tide was scheduled to open their season and the Ronga era against Paterson Charter Wednesday. They then had games with McNair Academic on Saturday and Queen of Peace Monday. Ronga wanted to give credit to his assistant coaches Danielle Labriola, the former head coach at Ridgefield, Jose Ponjoan and Howard Thompson. He was also happy to find Nicole Smith already teaching at Harrison. Smith was a former standout pitcher during her high school days at North Bergen and beat Ronga’s Hoboken team twice. “We have good kids and a good staff,” Ronga said. “We’re ready.”

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

Vikings look to improve with solid pitching staff By Jim Hague Observer Sports Writer

the talent to make that losing stop,” Marcantuono said. “We have all of our pitchers returning.” s he begins his eighth The pitchers worked hard season as the head in the offseason, receiving pribaseball coach at North vate lessons from the people Arlington High School, Paul at Wladyka Baseball, including Marcantuono knows one former New York Mets farmthing. This year’s team has to hand Jim Wladyka. be better than last year’s. “They put in the time durA year ago, the Vikings won ing the winter,” Marcantuono all of three games. That’s not a said. “It’s good to know that lot to be excited about. we have a pitching staff that “We had a lot of sophomores we can work with for the next on the team and only one sencouple of years.” ior,” Marcantuono said. “We Leading the way is junior kind of knew what we had and left-hander Brian Costello, that we were going to take who ended up having the some lumps.” lowest earned run average on But the calendar year has the team and pitched for the turned – and frankly, so have Photo by Jim Hague Vikings in the NJSIAA North the hopes of the Vikings. The North Arlington baseball team will be improved, thanks to its pitching staff. From l. are Joel Silva, Timmy Ford, head Jersey Section 2, Group I “Looking forward, we have coach Paul Marcantuono, Brian Costello and Charles Kearney.

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Marcantuono said. Junior right-hander Timmy Ford, the basketball standout, and sophomore righty Charles Kearney complete the starting staff. “Those four are the ones who will carry us pitchingwise,” Marcantuono said. The Vikings have three catchers that they can use in junior Stephen Carey, junior Chris Giaquinto and sophomore Angel Santos. “Stephen has worked very hard to get better,” Marcantuono said. “He has improved a lot. Angel is a versatile player who can play all over. Chris is one of our better hitters. We have to find a spot for him in continued next page

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

our lineup.” Costello plays first base when he’s not pitching. The second baseman is senior Anthony Rotondo, the lone senior on the team. “I don’t think he made a single error at second base last year,” Marcantuono said. “I like his glove, but I also like the leadership he provides. He’s the captain. I love his knowledge of the game. He’s probably the smartest baseball mind I’ve ever coached.” That last comment says a lot, because Marcantuono has had his share of very bright ballplayers. The shortstop is junior Ismanuel Mora, who is one of the best fielding shortstops around. “He showed some flashes of brilliance last year, stepping into the varsity role as a sophomore,” Marcantuono said. “I have no doubt about the shortstop position for us for the

next couple of years. He loves the game. Mora also worked hard in the offseason.” The third baseman is Kearney, who is the team’s No. 5 hitter. “He has a little bit of power,” Marcantuono said. “He’s also one of the hardest working kids I’ve ever seen. I’ve never heard him utter a bad word.” Ford is the team’s centerfielder. “He has a strong arm out there,” Marcantuono said. “If a ball is hit to him, he’s going to catch it. He’s our No. 2 hitter and he puts the bat on the ball.” Junior left fielder Elias Aguilar returns to the Viking roster after missing all of last year with a broken hand. Junior right fielder Will Pimentel is what Marcantuono labeled “a very coachable kid who is serviceable,” Marcantuono said. Santos and Giaquinto are players who can also help in the outfield.

Sophomore John Policano is a reliable and serviceable player who can come off the bench. There are other things to be excited about the Vikings, despite the veteran roster. The Vikings will play their home games at the newly restored Rip Collins Field and its new FieldTurf facility. “It definitely helps,” Marcantuono said. “We had the luxury of having the turf. Others are calling us to see if they can get on the field. If it rains all day, we can still get on the turf and ready to go.” The Vikings were set to open their season at Rip Collins Wednesday against Lincoln. They were off to face University Charter in Jersey City Thursday. No question, the Vikings will be improved. “We’re going to be better,” Marcantuono said. “We’re way better than we were last year.” They have to be.

Prep rolls out honors for area students James C. DeAngelo, principal of St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City, has announced that the following local residents attained honor roll status for the second marking period of 2014-2015. Belleville: Alex Donaleski and Jacob Yanicak earned Second Honors. Andrew Notare and Michael Mangual earned Honorable Mention. Bloomfield: Daniel Okoh, Ian Harnett and Paolo Samin earned First Honors. Honorable Mention was attained by Kenneth Creer, Matthew Issac and Stephen Perez. Harrison: Tyler Martino earned Second

Honors. Kearny: Zachary Uhler earned First Honors. Lyndhurst: Tyler Hansen and Zachary Moeller earned First Honors. Rishi Kumaran, Victor Chirichella and Luke Giunta earned Second Honors. Honorable Mention was attained by Augustus Burkhardt. North Arlington: Robert Wisowaty earned First Honors. Brady Marinho, and Matthew Rodrigues earned Second Honors. Honorable Mention was attained by Alphonso Palacios and Robert Dungan. Nutley: Sean Johnson, Michael Fogle, Luke

Bukowiec, Alexander De Martino, Marc Cozzarelli, Dennis Kirby Jr. and Brian Savage earned First Honors. Nicholas Cozzarelli, Benjamin Halligan, Anthony Sabia, Francis Geltrude, Marco Califano and Dante Dias earned Second Honors. Honorable Mention was attained by Kyle Bowes, Sawyer Swanson, Jonathan Ahn and John Halligan. First Honors is awarded to students with an average of A or higher (4.0); Second Honors, an average at or above the midpoint between A and B+ (3.7); Honorable Mention, an average of B+ or higher (3.5).

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RECONSIdER from 60-unit apartment complex.” A Quick Chek, on the other hand, would be “clean and simple” and would offer a chance for “hiring 40 people” to work there in shifts around the clock. But several council members had reservations about the plan: Kevin Kennedy wondered if the township would run into legal problems with a rival bidder who had proposed a retail use for the site; Marie Strumolo Burke and Dr. John Notari worried about safety issues that a 24/7 operation might generate; and Steven Rovell had concerns about adding to existing traffic congestion on the approach to the Rutgers St. bridge. Mayor Ray Kimble ended the discussion by saying, “The next step is to discuss this among ourselves and our attorney.” During the regular public meeting, the council dealt with the Northeast Area Redevelopment Plan by passing a resolution that found that, “… the proposed

Photos by Ron Leir

O&R attorney Anthony J. Frese (l.) and Quick Check’s John Carafello try to make a case for replacing proposed housing with a commercial use at the now vacant School 1 site (shown at l.).

density, building height and intensity of development proposed development Option 3 [which called for at least one 50-story high-rise and others ranging from 10 to 20 floors] is out of scale with the existing and planned land use character of Washington Ave. and its surrounding neighborhoods.” And it further determined that, “… there is no evidence in the near future, beyond development occurring along the Hudson River in Hudson County or Bergen County, that development

[as proposed under Option 3] would ever find a feasible market in Belleville. “That said, it makes no planning sense to approve a redevelopment plan for an unrealistic development of this scale and invite unforeseeable legal or zoning challenges.” At the same time, the council unanimously voted down a resolution that would have send the Northeast Redevelopment team’s application back to the Planning Board “for further fact finding and deliberation and possible revisions.”

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Rovell told The Observer: “We’re not into the type of extreme density being proposed by the developer. As I understand it, [one member of the team] already has prior approvals to put up a 135-unit apartment building on a portion of the site but nothing has been built.” Going along with such a huge project “is a lot to ask for in a bedroom-type community like Belleville,” Rovelle said. “Why would you change the look and feel of the community? It’s not that I’m against development but I’m a proponent of reasonable and rational

development.” The council decision was warmly greeted by residents Vincent Frantantoni and Jeff Mattingly. “I’ve finally got a reason to thank the council for doing the right thing,” Frantantoni said, “because this project is so out of scale with Belleville. In our entire town, we have 11,800 housing units. This developer wants to come and add between 4,500 and 6,000 units and this town cannot handle this.” Mattingly chose to take hope from the council’s action, “if it was meant as sending a signal to the developer to come back with a smaller project.” Otherwise, he said, granting the team carte blanche would amount to nothing less than “a land grab to take over a [contaminated] property 10 years in the process of being cleaned.” Putting a 50-story highrise “only 100 feet away from a utility electric tower is not a place for a residential development,” he added. What the development team will do next remains to be seen.

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comic books). “Picture books go out like crazy,” he said. “The companies that put out e-books haven’t yet found a way to replicate them.” Of the 83,164 books and tapes in circulation, more than half – 46,695 – are juvenile books, records reveal. More than 1,500 residents – adults and kids – took out new library cards and about 21,000 adults and youths came in to use the library’s computers last year, records show. “For now,” Humphrey said, “we can tread water. I would hate to see us cut our hours more than we have already.”

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UND

North Arlington - Beautiful 2 Family Duplex Style Home! 5 Bedrooms! Updated Kitchens with Granite Counters! 3 full baths! Finished Basement with Family Room and Full Bath! Beautiful Hardwood Floors! Finished Attic! All Separate Utilities! Gas Hot Air Heating Systems. Unique Large Property with 2 Separate One Car Detached Garages and 2 Long Driveways! Asking $449,000

LIBRARY from a point where that has to be addressed.” “It seems like a lot of libraries have lost people through attrition,” Humphrey said. “You can see that trend.” Pat Tumulty, executive director of the New Jersey Library Association, noted that, “Since 2005, property values across the state have gone down by 13% and that has a direct impact on local funding for libraries. “In 2009, the average per-capita state funding for libraries in New Jersey was $67 and as of 2013 [the year for which the most recent figures

Hardyston - Great Ranch Style Home in Sussex County! Can be used as 3 or 4 Bedrooms! Living Room with White Brick Fireplace! 2 Full and 1 Half Bath! Large Updated Kitchen with New Cabinets and Stainless Steel appliances! Central A/C! 2 Zone Baseboard hot water Heating System Full Heated Basement with Family Room! 200 Amp Electric Service! Heated over-sized 2 Car Garage with Workshop! Large Half Acre Lot! Great Back Yard with Shed with electric and running water! Close to Shopping, Schools, Mountain Creek, Crystal Resort and MUCH MORE! Asking only $259,900

East Newark - Don't miss this well maintained 2 Family Home in desirable section! Located near the border of Harrison, this great two family home features all Large Rooms! Plenty of closets! Hardwood Floors Throughout! Separate Gas, Electric and Hot Water Heaters! Full High and Dry Basement! Close to schools, shopping and just steps away to ALL transportation! $299,900

Belleville, 3 Family Home. Hardwood floors! New Roof! New Windows! New Driveway! Large 50' x 100 Lot! LongDriveway and One Car Garage! $329,000

Kearny - Don't miss this well maintained 3 Family Home in the desirable Arlington Section of Kearny! All Separate Utilities! New Timberline Roof, New Siding! All Newer Windows! Newer Updated Electric! Close to shopping, schools and ALL Transportation! A Must See Home! $399,500

Lyndhurst - Don't miss this Great 2 family home! Large 43' by 140' lot overlooking Riverside Park! Hardwood Floors Throughout! Central A/C! Finished ground floor Family Room with 1/2 bath. Gas hot water baseboard heating system. Triple Wide Driveway! Over sized 2 Car Garage! A Must See Home! $449,900

& HOUSE OF THE WEEK WOW - This is a delightful three bedroom Kearny Colonial. Hardwood floors, high ceilings and old world charm and character throughout. Great location plus a 50x115 lot and two car garage. Call today $319,900.

NORTH ARLINGTON - Newly remodeled with granite in the kitchen, jacuzzi tub, 3 bedrooms and a finished basement with second full bath. Inground pool and off street parking. All for only $289,000. CLASSIC KEARNY COLONIAL- This three bedroom lovely Manor home is in excellent condition and contains lovely hardwood floors, chestnut trim and stained glass windows. It also has sliders to a huge deck off the kitchen and of course a drive and garage. Will not last at Just $329,900

Kearny - Retail Storefront or Office Space for rent on Kearny Avenue in Heart of Town! Newly Carpeted and Painted! Approximately 350sq foot. Built in Wall A/C. 1/2 Bath. Great area! Lots of foot traffic! Heat and water included. Some Basement Storage available. $850.00

North Arlington - LAND! LAND! LAND! Level, Buildable Residential Lot in Heart of North Arlington. Measures 39' x 71.5'. Includes large 3 car garage with property. $149,900

Kearny - Location! Location! Location! Ranch Style home in desirable Arlington section of Kearny! Large 50' by 100' lot. 3 Bedrooms! 2 Full Baths! Finished Basement! One Car Garage! Close to all shopping, schools and ALL Transportation. $259,500

Harrison - A Builders Dream! Six (6) connecting lots in desirable section of Harrison! 3 side by side lots with Harrison Avenue frontage, each measuring approximately 25' wide by 88' deep, and 3 lots on Jersey Street directly behind, measuring approximately 25' wide by 49' deep. Asking $459,900

UNIQUE OFFERING - Kearny 2 family on a 59x100 lot. 2 bedrooms, modern kitchen and bath in each apartment. ASKING $359,000 NOW IS THE TIME - This Hamilton Street 2 family contains three bedrooms on the first floor and 2 bedrooms in the second floor apartment. The basement is finished and the price is fantastic. ASKING $359,000. MUST SEE- Do not buy until you experience this huge, beautiful, unique 100% remodeled Kearny 2 family on a rare 62.5X100 lot. 6 bedrooms,4 baths. Extra large kitchen, lovely finishes throughout. Central Air,4 finished floors. ASKING $629,000.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

THINK YOU CAN’T REFINANCE BECAUSE VALUES ARE DOWN? THINK AGAIN!!!

Neno-Rosa Agency

Augusto Neno Broker/Owner

551-553 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032 www.RosaAgencyHomes.com • 201-997-7860

KEARNY

AYS! T IN 14 D ONTRAC UNDER C

Manor Section – Completely Remodelled Home w/ 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Eat Kitchen, Living Rm, Dining Rm & Sun Rm. Finished Basement. Central Air & Forced Hot Air. Large Property w/ 1 Car Garage. Asking $349,000

HARRISON

Handyman Special – Colonial w/ 2 Bedrooms, 1 Full Bath, Living Rm, Dining Rm, Kitchen & Computer Rm. Walk-Up Finished Attic. Unfinished Basement. 2 Car Garage. Asking $183,500

HARRISON

ROB PEZZOLLA • NMLS# 266181

ROB@KEYPOINTMORTGAGE.COM

NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031

201-998-9050 • Fax 201.820.0505

BELLEVILLE

E! EXCLUSIV

3 Family - Recently Renovated Home. 1st Floor w/ 1 Bedroom. 2nd & 3rd Floors Have 3 Bedrooms. 1 Car Garage. Short Walk to PATH Trains. Asking $489,000

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

Real Estate Large Home Built in 1980s. Both Apartments w/2 Bedrooms, Dining Rm, Living Rm, Eat in Kitchen & Bath. Finished Basement w/Rec Rm, Laundry Rm & Full Bath. Driveway & 2 Car Garage. Asking $399,000

BELLEVILLE

DIRECTORY

TING NEW LIS

Central Park Condos – Beautifully Renovated 2nd Floor Condo w/1 Bedroom, Living Rm, New Modern Eat in Kitchen & Bath. Low Maintenance Fees Include Heat, Hot Water & 1 Parking Space. Asking $169,000

KEARNY

1 Family - Colonial w/ 3 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths, Living Rm, Dining Area, Family Rm & Kitchen. Semi-Finished Basement. Asking $148,900

KEARNY TING NEW LIS

Heather Glen Condo – Condo w/1 Bedroom, Living Rm w/Balcony, Full Bath & Eat in Kitchen. 1 Car Garage w/ Additional Parking Space. Asking $113,900

KEARNY

2 Family – 1st Floor w/ 2 Bedrooms, Modern Eat in Kitchen, Tiled Bath, Living RM, Dining Rm. 2nd Floor w/3 Bedrooms, Modern Eat in Kitchen, Living Rm, Dining Rm, Tiled Bath. Private Driveway. Asking $394,900

10.

TING NEW LIS

2 Family – Arlington Section – Both apartments w/2 Bedrooms, Living Rm, Modern Eat in Kitchen & Tiled Bath. Finished Attic w/2 rooms & Full Bath. Separate Utilities. Asking $274,900

11.

LYNDHURST

To advertise in this directory CALL 201-991-1600

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

KEARNY

SOLD

Weichert Realtors

2 Family – Both Apartments w/ 3 Bedrooms, Living Rm, Eat in Kitchen & Bath. Large Walk Up Attic to Unfinished Room. Asking $309,000

12.

310 Main St., Fort Lee, NJ 07024

KEARNY

201-592-1400 Sirlene Oliveira Realtor

Beautiful Colonial w/ 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath, Living Rm w/Fireplace, Dining Rm, Eat in Kitchen w/Stainless Steel Appliances. Central Air/Forced Hot Air. 1 Car Garage. Asking $378,900

13.

KEARNY

1 Family – Manor Section – Lovely Renovated Home w/ 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 New Baths, Living Rm w/Wood Burning Fireplace, Dining Rm & New Eat in Kitchen w/Granite Countertops & Stainless Steel Appliances. Central Air. 1 Car Garage. Asking $414,000

Semiao & Associates

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

2 Family – Both Apartments have 3 Bedrooms, Living Rm, Kitchen & Bath. Finished Attic w/ 2 Rooms. All Separate Utilities. Asking $319,900

14.

www.sirlenesellshomes. com Language spoken: English, Portuguese & Spanish

Want to sell your home FAST? Contact your local real estate specialist!

The Bixler Group

LLC

The Bixler Group

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

KEARNY

T ONTRAC UNDER C

1 Family – Belgrove Drive Colonial w/3 Bedrooms, Living/Dining Rm Combo, Eat in Kitchen, Family Rm & 4 Bedrooms. Finished Attic & Basement. Driveway w/1 Car Garage. Asking $424,000

Visit Our New Website at www.RosaAgencyHomes.com

Tel: (201) 997-7860

Keypoint Mortgage

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

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

201.991.0905

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

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Education who served as guidance director Raider Marching Band and supervisor in the was crowned USSBA local district until her Northern States Chamretirement in 2008. She pions for best music, is past president of the percussion and effect Radcliffe School PTA. honors and was grand She is a board member champion at the 2015 of the Nutley Family Gator Bowl, TournaService Bureau and is ment of Champions, a past president of the which brought $10,000 NFS Women’s Auxiliary in prize money to the and chaired the Charhigh school. In 2009, the ity Ball. She is a founder Nutley High music proand president of Nutley gram was honored with a Thriving Survivors, a gala at Carnegie Hall and support program for in 2008, the NHS Wind women who live or work Ensemble gave a world in Nutley who have premiere performance of battled breast cancer. Frank Ticheli’s “Angels The group organizes an in the Architecture” in annual walk/brunch, the Sydney Opera House provide food for those in Australia. The Wind undergoing treatment Ensemble has won first and companionship to place awards at festivals women in need. in Toronto (2005), AnaPetracco is the owner heim (2006), New York of Petracco and Sons, a City (2007) and Jackson local deli and catering (2009). Maiello, selected facility. Petracco started as Teacher of the Year in business many years in 2009, performs as ago when he began leasa trumpeter with the ing and running the meat Ridgewood Concert department at Foodrama Band and New Sussex on Washington Ave. Symphony. Eventually, he opened Fleitell is a former his own business on two-term member of Union Ave., eventually the Nutley Board of outgrowing that space JAYCEES from

KPD from

March 26 Officers Ben Wuelfing and Tom Pontrella were dispatched to a 2:45 a.m. accident between a Honda CRV and a Jaguar on Rt. 7 near Fish House Road in South Kearny. As Wuelfing was interviewing the Honda driver, he reportedly detected the odor of alcohol. After field sobriety tests and an Alcotest, Pauline Ksepko, 21, of Bayonne, was charged with DWI, reckless driving, and driving against the flow of traffic. Police said the driver of the Jaguar -- a 27-yearold West Orange woman -- declined medical attention. Both cars were towed from the scene. ••• Anthony Joana, 40, of Kearny, was arrested at 9 a.m. at a Belgrove Drive residence by Officers Steven Hroncich and John Fabula and Sgt. Paul Bershefski pursuant to a $1,000 Kearny contemptof-court warrant stem-

ming from a July incident in which he allegedly made threats against KPD officers. ••• At 3:30 p.m., Officer Pat Becker responded to the report of a Walmart shoplifter fleeing in a gold-colored car on Harrison Ave. toward Rt. 280. Becker and Sgt. John Taylor stopped a gold 2002 Chevy operated by Charles Robinson, 51, of East Orange, who was arrested after he was found to have a suspended license and a $4,000 Roselle Park warrant (for driving while suspended), police said. His passenger, Eric Jackson, 49, of Newark, was charged with shoplifting after Walmart security ID’d him, police said. He allegedly had tried to take two speakers. ••• At 4:05 p.m., Officer Brian Wisely saw a 1999 Mitsubishi travelling erratically and at a high rate of speed from East Newark into Kearny. He followed it to Johnston

and relocating to the site of the former Radcliffe Deli on Bloomfield Ave. For many years, Petracco has donated to a variety of causes and has supplied food and beverages to local senior citizens and athletic programs and community organizations. Petracco has coached baseball, basketball and other youth sports and sponsored Little League teams. He has helped provide residents with transportation to doctors’ offices and has donated food and supplies to the needy. In 2010, Petracco was elected mayor and serves as director of public safety. This year’s honorees were selected by a panel consisting of chairman former Township Commissioner Walter Smith, Dr. Clarke, businessman John Brown, Schools Superintendent Russell Lazovick, community volunteer Anne Lynne Eisenfelder, former NJ Hometown and Nutley Sun editor Phil White and former Assemblyman Fred Scalera. Ave. and Maple St., where the driver parked in a prohibited zone and both occupants exited the vehicle. During questioning, passenger Anthony Parker, 24, of Bloomfield, appeared to be “very nervous,” police said. Sgt. Scott Traynor and two vice detectives went to the scene and separated driver and passenger, who reportedly gave conflicting stories. Police said Parker then admitted to having a hypodermic needle and heroin. A search reportedly produced the needle, a glassine fold of heroin and three vials of cocaine. (Editor’s note: For once, a fold of heroin did not bear a “brand” name; it must have been generic.) Parker was charged with possession of all the prohibited items. The driver, a 24-yearold Kearny male, was issued summonses for careless driving and the parking violation. – Karen Zautyk

Deadline for obituaries:

Monday by 10 AM

George Dock George Dock, 92, died on March 24 at St. Luke’s Hospice in Bethlehem, Pa. Arrangements were by the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, 585 Belgrove Drive. A funeral Mass was offered at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny, followed by interment in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.thiele-reid.com. Mr. Dock was born in Paisley, Scotland. He immigrated to this country in 1952 and lived in Kearny ever since. George was a bricklayer for the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers’ Local 4 for many years. He was a founding member of the Kearny Celtic Supporters Association of Kearny in 1963 and served as its first president. George was also a proud member of the Kearny Irish American Club of Kearny and served as secretary. In 1974, the Celtic Supporters made the Irish American Club their permanent home. Mr. Dock worked alongside his wife Margaret as they owned and operated the Kearny Health Food Center from 1969 to 2001. In 1972 he donated six months of his time as a brick layer to help build Elks Camp Moore in Haskell, a camp for handicapped children and veterans. Mr. Dock is survived by his daughter Sharon McKeown and his grandson Edmund McKeown. He was predeceased by his wife Margaret (Gaffney) Dock in February 2010. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny.

obituaries

George F. Dreker George F. Dreker, 88, died on March 23 in the New Jersey Firemen’s Home in Boonton. Arrangements were by the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, 585 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral Mass was offered at St. Cecilia Church, Kearny, followed by interment in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.thiele-reid.com. George was born in Kearny and was a lifelong resident. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 until 1947 and was a firefighter for the town of Kearny for 31 years, retiring Dec. 26, 1992. He was member of the N.J. State Firemen’s Association, the Kearny Firemen’s Relief Association, the Hudson County Firemen’s Home Association, the N.J. State Exempt Firemen’s Association, the Hudson County League of Exempt Firemen, the Kearny Firemen’s Exempt Association and the Kearny FMBA Local 18.

St. Cecilia Church in Kearny was a huge part of George’s life where he was a member of the Holy Name Society, an usher and a bingo volunteer. The church named him its “Man of the Year” in 1998. George is survived by his daughter Dorothy Schmieder (Richard); four grandchildren, Theresa Grassey, Roseanne Farrell, Richard J. Schmieder Jr. and Katherine McCabe; and nine great-grandchildren. He will be missed by his cousins Cecilia Horn and Sister M. James; and his nephew Thomas Dreker. George was predeceased by his wife Dorothy R. (Forbes) Dreker; his daughter Dolores Fargano; and three brothers Frederick, James and Bernard Dreker. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the New Jersey Firemen’s Home, 565 Lathrop Ave., Boonton, N.J. 07005 or at www.njfh.org. John Munro John Munro, of Kearny, died March 27. He was 88.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

To submit an obituary: fax: 201-991-8941

obituaries@theobserver.com

Arrangements were by the Armitage Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral service was held at the funeral home followed by a private cremation. www.armitagewiggins.com John was a devoted husband and father. Married to the late Georgina (nee Shivers) he was the father of Pauline (Thomas) Austin, John (Denise) Munro, Gerald (Gina) Munro, Gary (Tammy) Munro and the late Andrew Munro. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. John was born in Glasgow, Scotland, Feb. 14, 1927. He and his family moved to Kearny in 1963. He was a longtime member of The Scots American Club and an avid soccer fan who always supported the hometown Kearny High School Soccer, Scots American and Thistle teams. John served in the British Army Royal Engineers during World War II. He worked for Imperial Photo Graphics in Belleville for 30 years, retiring in 1993. Many would remember John tire-

lessly taking his daily walks up and down Kearny Ave. and warmly joke about him being the “Scottish Mayor of Kearny” until his illness. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Scots Club for roof repair. Edward Patrick O’Neill Edward Patrick O’Neill died quietly on March 23, during a loving caress from his wife Mary with his brother Marty holding his hand. Ed was born in Newark and raised his family in Kearny. Arrangements were by the Armitage Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral Mass was held at St. Stephen’s Church, followed by burial in Holy Cross Cemetery. www. armitagewiggins.com Ed was a Navy veteran who served on the USS Soley DD 707. After the Navy, he joined the Newark Police Department where he was a motorcycle officer. When he retired after 27 years, he drove a truck see OBITS page

Shaw-Buyus

In Loving Memory of

Elaine Hopton

Home for Services

March 28, 2005

Mario Teixeira, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757

Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048

Though your smile is gone forever And your hand we can not touch We still have many memories of the one we loved so much Love,

Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations. Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.

138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032

(201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com

The Family In Loving Memory of

Prayer to St. Jude Most holy apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the Church honors and invokes you universally as the patron of difficulty and of desperate cases, of things almost despaired of Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone. Make use, I implore you, of that particular privilege given to you to bring visible and speedy help where help was almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and sufferings, particularly(make your request here)-and that I may bless God with you and all the elect throughout all eternity. I promise you, O blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor, and I will never cease to honor you as my special and powerful patron and do all in my power to encourage devotion to you. Amen. H.A.B.

John Hopton April 1, 2013 Your presence we miss Your memory we treasure You are loved beyond words And missed beyond measure Love,

The Family

WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME 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

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

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.

APArTmenTs for renT

BELLEVILLE

E.NEWARK

belleville 5 rooms, on 2 floors, microwave, stove, all new floors, W/D on premise. $1650/month, HT/HW included. Close to Transportation. (201) 869-6040.

e.newark Studio apt. No Kitchen, LR, BR & bathroom. Utilities included. 1 month security. $650/month. Avl. Now. 201-772-9965.

belleville Large 3 room apt. HT/HW included. $850/month. 1 ½ months security. No pets. (973) 226-9350. belleville 3 cozy room apt. 1 BR, LR, kitchen w/refrigerator, Bathroom. All new, excellent location. $925/month. All utilities included. With Cable/HBO, etc. No pets. Call (908) 204-1348 Also, Bloomfield 5 large rooms apt. $1,150 +. belleville 16 Howard Place. off Washington Avenue. 3 rooms. 1 BR. $850/month HT/HW included. (973) 801-5900

HARRISON harrison 4th fl apt. 2 BR, Large EIK, sunny LR, DR, wood & ceramic flooring. Ceiling fan in all rooms. Partially furnished. HT/HW included. $1200/month Walk to all transportation & shops. References & security deposit required. Call or text (732) 822-9177. harrison 1st fl. 3 BR, 1 Bath, L/R, D/R, Kitchen. Walking distance to PATH. Utilities not included. No pets. $1,400/month. 1 ½ months security. Available April 1st. (973) 715-5495.

belleville Section 8 Only. Greylock Parkway. Large 1 BR. Available Now. Call 973-202-8580.

harrison 5 rooms. 2nd floor, 2 bedrooms, Smoke-free environment. No pets. Off street parking & many extras. 11/2 months security. Available 4/1. Call (973) 418-8500.

APArTmenTs for renT

policy There are no reFunds or chanGes with

CLASSIFIEDS APArTmenTs for renT harrison 1st floor, 2 bedrooms, LR, kitchen. Close to PATH. $1200/month. 1-1/2 months security. Separate utilities. No pets. (973) 388-8916.

harrison Newer home, 1 BR apt. LR & modern Kitchen. A/C. Avl. May 1st. $950/month. 973-699-4216.

harrison Large 4 room spt. $950/month + security & utilities. No pets. (201) 991-6942.

harrison Newly updated 2Bdr 1Bath 5room apt. QUIET home within walking distance to PATH Separate utilities. No smoking. No pets. Text or Call 862-215-6880

harrison 5 Rooms, 2 BR’s LR, DR, EIK, 2nd fl. Stove & refrigerator. C/A & Heat. Walk to Path. Avl. Now. Utilities Separate. No Laundry Hook-UP. No Pets. No Smoking. 1 ½ months security. $1400/month. Call 973-482-2628. Leave Message.

harrison Large 4 BR apt. on 3rd fl. Central air & Ht. Newly renovated. Walking distance to path & schools. $1,500/month + utilities. 1 ½ months security. (973) 943-7663.

classiFied ads • please note there will be a $10.00 processinG Fee if

harrison Newly renovated, 3BR, 1 Bath. Close to Path. $1,600/month. 1 month security. Laundry in basement. Avl. Now. Call after 5pm 201-933-1458.

changes need to be made for running specials

harrison 2nd floor apt. Close to Path. Pay your own utilities. $1,050 a month. Call 201-240-5198.

APArTmenTs for renT

harrison Ground Floor. 1 BR. Bath, LR & Kitchen. $930/month + utilities. 1 ó month security. 1 year lease. No smoking. No pets in building premises. Street parking. No laundry. Available Immediately. 973-481-5760 Between 6-7pm.

kearny 1 BR HT/HW included. No pets. No Smoking. $950/month. 1 ½ months Security 201-997-0590.

kearny 6 room apt. W/W carpet. A/C’s, ceiling fans, refrigerator, $1,200/month + utilities. 1 ½ security. No pets. (201) 998-9676.

harrison 1st fl, 2 BR, LR, DR/ EIK. All remodeled. Refrig included. No smoking, no pets. $1,450 month/heat included. Available now. Call or text Rosa 201-207-9158

harrison 2 bedrooms, kitchen, LR, bathroom. Recently renovated. Close To PATH. Available now. (201) 376‐3184

KEARNY 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 5 room, 2nd floor airy apt. $1250/month + utilities. 1 year lease. 1-1/2 months security. (973)838-1662.

kearny 6 room. 2nd fl. Renovated apt. Large LR/DR, No pets. $1,600/month + 1 month security. HT/HW included. 201-306-0892 after 5pm.

kearny 3 rooms, HT/HW included. Elevated building. Laundry facility on premises.$950/month Call Sofia after 3pm 201-998-3516 or see super after 3pm 654 Elm St. Apt Basement 1.

kearny 3 Clean rooms. HT/HW included. From $895/month. See super 6 woodland Ave. Apt. 1, or call after 5pm 917-858-8246 for appointment.

kearny 1 BR Apt. Located 1 block from City hall. H/W floors. HT/HW included. $950/month. 1 month security. No pets. For more Info. Call Carlos 201-306-2994.

kearny 1st fl. 2 family house, 2 BR. $1,300/month + utilities. 1 1/2 month security. Laundry hook-up & access to backyard. Near transportation. Available April 1st. (201) 978-2070.

kearny 611 Elm St. 1 BR apt. Newly renovated. C/A. $900/month. 1 ½ security deposit. No pets. Available April 1st. (201) 993-4665.

kearny 3rd fl. 3 BR, 1 bath. Avl. Now. $1,300/month. 1 month security. Call 201-622-8315

kearny 2nd fl. apt. 2 bedrooms, LR, Kitchen, no pets, no smoking $1,000 per month + utilities. 1 month security call (201) 997-4954.

kearny 2BR’s, no pets, no smoking, 1 year lease. Avl. April. 1 1/2 months security, $1.150.00/month + utilities. (201) 921-7608 (201) 951-3749.

kearny Roosevelt school district, 2 BR LR, DR with galley kitchen & bathroom. Avl. June 1st. HT & HW supplied. 1 ½ months security. No pets. New carpet & tile floor. $1,250/month. Call 201-998-8138.

kearny Newly Renovated. 2nd fl. Midland Ave. 3 BR’s, LR, DR, Kitchen. 2 Bathrooms. Near schools & Bus transportation. C/A. HW floors & Carpet. Utilities separate. No pets. No smoking. Avl. April 1st. (201) 755-4511.

kearny Large 1 BR apt. Loft style. Featuring open floor plan, high ceiling, large windows, H/W floor throughout, New ceramic tile in bath. New kitchen, Ceiling fans in each room. $1200/month + security & utilities. No pets. (201) 991-6942.

kearny 1st floor apt. 2 bedrooms, lr, dr, kitchen and bath. separate utilities. $1300 + 1 month security. w/d hook-up. available immediately. call 201-207-8029.

kearny 2nd fl. In a newer 2 family. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, LR, DR, Large kitchen, Lots of closets. hardwood floors, Central A/C. 1 car garage, 1 parking space. Laundry hookup, separate utilities. No pets. Avl. May 1st. $1800/month. (201) 725-1212.

kearny Arlington Section, 3 Bedrooms, Hardwood Floors throughout. 2nd fl. No pets. $1200/month. + utilities. 1 ½ months security. (973) 928-3620 (201) 991-0865.

kearny Large 1 BR, 2 Closets. 1 ½ months security. HT included. Hardwood Floors. Avl. Now. (201) 991-5460.

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

APArTmenTs for renT

kearny 2 BR, on Kearny Ave. steps to Bus. Separate utilities. No pets. (973) 951-7385.

kearny 4 BR’s Ideal for large family. $1675/month. 1 month security. Avl. Now. 201-674-1473 or 732-602-4043.

LYNDHURST lyndhursT 1 bedroom includes AC & All appliances, Laundry facility, parking. $995/month plus utilities. No pets. Smoke Free Building. Close to NYC transportation. (201) 970-3210

lyndhursT 2 Bdrm. LR, Large Kitchen. Off street parking $1,300/month. o’haraagency (201)997‐6300.

N. ARLINgTON n.arlinGTon 2nd fl. 2 BR, LR, kitchen, newly renovated. Central HT & A/C utilities separate. No pets. No smoking. Contact Angela by phone or text 862-371-9418

n.arlinGTon 16 Exton Ave. 1 BR. $900/month. 1st fl. + basement area. Parking Avl. 1 month security. (732) 372-1217.

NEWARK newark 1 BR $950/mo. Vailsburg / Near Seton Hall. HT/HW included. Safe/ Secure. Brick Historic Bldg. Extra Large BR. Newly Renovated. Kitchen, Bath, H/W Floors, Refrigerator, Ceiling Fans. 1 month security. Section 8 ok. No fees. No pets. Avl. Now (973) 216-9470.

Condo for renT cliFTon Allwood Mews, 2 Bdrm, LR, DR Garage, Deck, Washer/Dryer $2,400/month. o’haraagency (201)997‐6300.

furnished room for renT KEARNY Peaceful & quiet large bright room, private sink & refrigerator. Clean bedding weekly, close to stores & transportation, plenty of street parking. positively no smoking. Gentlemen preferred. Single occupancy. Good credit needed. 4 week security required. $140/week. (973) 830-7498.

POLICIES • Three & Four week specials musT run consecuTively

n.arlinGTon 5 room Modern apt. C/A, 1 car Parking. No pets. $1,600/month + utilities. 2200sq.ft. Call Al (973) 284-0904

• deadlines are every monday by 4pm

n.arlinGTon 3 Bedrooms. Central Air. W/D Hook-up. Available June 1st. Also 2 Room apt. Avl. Immediately. Call (732) 648-1171.

• we are noT responsible For TypoGraphical errors aFTer 1sT run

• There is a $10 charGe For any chanGes made

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

www.theobserver.com

hAll for renT

Party Hall For Rent • Affordable • A/C • Nice Setting 201-889-6677 201-572-1839 offiCe sPACe for renT HARRISON • Affordable Modern Office/Artist Space • Prime Location • Close to PATH Trains & Major Highways • 400-8,000 SQ.FT. • Business Relocation and Start-up Stimulus/ Incentive Plan. (973) 223-5501

room for renT KEARNY 2 rooms for rent. Utilities included. Available now. (201) 686-1625 or (201) 279-9251.

BELLEVILLE Room for rent Shared kitchen & bath on Joralemon St. 1 month security. Avl. Immediately. (973) 851-5084.

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KEARNYFemale preferred, private entrance, utilities included with cable & internet. 1 block to transportation. $475/month + security. Available now. Se habla español. 201-772-7428

room for renT KEARNY Nice room for rent all utilities included. Shared Kitchen & Bath. No smoking. 3rd fl. On Schuyler Ave. (973)820-6034.

sPACe for renT NUTLEY Warehouse space with ground and mezzanine office 2250 sq. ft. 19 ft. high ceilings. 12x14 ft. high garage door. (201) 390-1729.

sTore for renT KEARNY 355 kearny ave. Store for rent $800/month (201) 467-9533 (973) 465-0166

KEARNY Store for rent currently hair salon could be rented with equipment. $1,600/month Hear & Hot Water Included. Call Afredo (732) 763-2961.

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emPloYmenT/ helP WAnTed HARRISON Store front for rent (307 Harrison Ave). Approximately 1100 sq. ft. with 2 bathrooms. Located in the center of the town with heavy traffic. 10 minutes walking distance from PATH. Avl. May 1st. $1500/month plus all utilities. 1-year lease and Good Credit. Please call 862-222-4204.

Commercial space 1,800 sq.ft + basement 1,800 sq. ft. on Harrison Ave. Brand new building. Nice location (646) 675-5113.

KEARNY Store f/rent. $775/month, HT/HW included. 1-1/2 months security. Available now. (201) 726-0852

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Express cuts 4 men in North Arlington looking for a barber. Competitive salary & good tips. Leave message 201-998-7305 Currently hiring Compounding Pharmacy Sales or prior Pharmaceutical Sales Experience with a Network of doctors. Highly competitive commission. Please email your resume to PharmaceuticalReps@ lmfmarketing.com to set up an interview.

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Van Aide - Pathways to Independence, Inc. in Kearny, NJ is seeking a candidate to assist in the transportation of and to work with individuals with developmental disabilities. Position is approximately 25 hrs per week, Mon-Fri, split shift. Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities strongly preferred. Applicants can fill out an application at our main office located at 60 Kingsland Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. Please bring a resume.

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van driver Pathways to Independence, Inc. in Kearny, NJ is seeking a candidate to transport and work with individuals with dev. disabilities. Position is approximately 25 hrs per week, Mon-Fri, split shift. Candidate should have a good driving record and experience driving vans. High School Diploma and valid driver’s license req. Experience working with individuals with dev. disabilities strongly preferred. Applicants can fill out an application at our main office located at 60 Kingsland Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. Please bring a resume.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

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.

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District OKs refinancing plan; movement seen on KHS job KEARNY –

The Kearny Board of Education is refinancing nearly $16 million in old school bonds in hopes of trimming some of its debt payments over the remaining life of the bonds. The board authorized the action on March 16. Michael DeVita, the board’s secretary/business administrator, said that Moody’s Investors Service has given the bonds an A1 rating, which, he said, should assure a competitive interest rate on the refinancing. DeVita said the board originally floated two bond issues, one in 2005 for $3,650,000 for repairs to elementary school facades and another in 2007 for $12,725,000 for the high school façade. “We pay off a portion of the debt on those bonds each year and we always check the market rates to see if it’s feasible to refinance,” DeVita said. “In past years, the savings projected were not enough to go forward with that.” But this year, the forecast was brighter, he said. “Now, our experts – bond counsel Andrea Kahn of McManimon, Scotland & Baumann, financial adviser Diana

AROUND TOWN from Memorable Impact on Our Home Town, Nutley, New Jersey,” Saturday, April 11, at 2 p.m. Be on the lookout for some Nutley notables in attendance! • Tuesday Night Graphic Novel Club meets April 14 at 7 p.m. to discuss “Batman: The Killing Joke.” Copies of

Geist of NW Financial and auditor Gary Vinci – estimate that through refinancing, we will realize a 5% net savings over the remaining life of the bonds through June 2026,” DeVita said. That savings, he said, has been projected at about $350,000 on the $8,498,125 of debt still outstanding on the bonds. Meanwhile, DeVita said the district hopes to bid out a contract for installing new soundproofed windows for Kearny High School and finish that work by this summer. Mark Bruscino, the district’s school plant operations director, said that 60% of those windows are already available, having been previously fabricated by a sub-contractor for Brockwell & Carrington, the former vendor who was entrusted with the high school improvement job until the firm was “terminated for convenience.” The remaining 40% still have to be ordered and manufactured, he said. By summer’s end, DeVita said, the district should be ready to seek bids for the improvements on the high school’s North Building, which

will involve steel supports for a modified atrium, new classrooms and a cafetorium. Plans now call for completion of the high school project by between 2017 and 2018, according to DeVita. Whether the district will end up with enough money from the roughly $40 million budget allocated by a combination of funding from the Federal Aviation Administration, Port Authority of N.Y. & N.J. and state Department of Education to finish the job remains to be seen. A forensics audit by D’Arcangelo & Co. of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., previously commissioned by the school board at the urging of former Schools Supt. Frank Ferraro was designed to inform the board how much had been spent on the project. The district has said that it has received only a preliminary report which it has refused to share with The Observer, which filed an OPRA request for the document, on the grounds that because it is still incomplete, it is not a public record.

each book are available at the library. Register online at nutleypubliclibrary.org/graphicnovelclub or by phone at 973-667-0405, ext. 2604. • A Butterfly Tea, open to ages 3 to 12, is set for Wednesday, April 15, at 2 p.m. Registration is required online at http://nutleypubliclibrary.org/ youthservices/. • Children ages 12 and

younger are invited to paint a butterfly flower Thursday, April 16, at 11 a.m. Registration is required. • The Butterfly Guy will visit on Tuesday, April 14, at 1:30 p.m. This program is open to all ages. No registration is required. For more information or to register for programs, call the library at 973-667-0405.

– Ron Leir

Don’t forget to follow The Observer on

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

minimize the impact on our [municipal] sports ing wall as a buffer for programs,” but he said E. Midland Ave. homethat would be tough to owners. The town is achieve, given that Veterseeking outside funding ans’ Field hosts football and fall baseball from sources to pay for it all. August through ThanksMeanwhile, Santos giving and girls’ softball said that the town is focusing on Veterans’ Field and Little League during spring and summer. as a desperately needed Assuming the town temporary replacement gets the CDBG money for the several fields at and goes ahead with the Oval that are curbidding out the turf rently off-line. job, “one option we’re Santos said that playlooking at is to do the ing area is used by both baseball area at one time adults and more than 250 and leave the other end youngsters ages 18 and of the field open and younger. schedule the other part “There’s a high deof the field for another mand on our fields and time. installing synthetic turf “But we’re wary of will allow for increased shutting down Little usage,” Santos said. League because we’d Fourth Ward Counonly have one field availcilman Michael Landy, able [East field at the who chairs the Recreation Committee, said Oval],” he said. “If we could do the that with the Oval off work from, say, July, to limits, “The hope is to when the winter starts,

TurFING from

Bonnie Patterson OBITS from Bonnie Patterson (nee for Shop-Rite and then Hahn), entered into he worked as a driver eternal rest on Monday, March 16. She was 65. for Clayton Container. Born on May 11, 1949, He is survived by his Bonnie was a lifelong loving wife of 47 years, resident of East Newark Mary Agnew, formerly of Bathgate, Scotland; his and Harrison, before beloved children, Edward moving to Piedmont, Mo., in 1997. She passed away G. and Jane C. O’Neill; at Clark’s Mountain Nursand his cherished siblings, MaryAnn Acceturo, ing Center, Piedmont, Mo. Predeceased by her Lenore Ceraso, James F., husband, Ronald V. PatMartin A., and Thomas terson Sr., she is survived O. O’Neill. He is also by her son, Ronald V. survived by many loving nieces and nephews, great Patterson Jr., her brother, nieces and nephews, and Jake Hahn, her half-sister, Karen Kowalski Kelly, all of their families. He had a special close- and her grandson, Victor Leroy Patterson. She is ness to all of his in-laws. He had many friends, too also survived by many numerous to mention, but nieces, nephews and cousins. held a special bond with She was also predehis lifelong buddies Jerry ceased by her parents, Daily, Harold Hanson, Jacob and Betty Hahn; her and Walter Blevins. Ed daughter, Bonnie V. Patand his family also want terson; and her siblings, to acknowledge all of his Donald Hahn and Colleen wonderful neighbors on Hahn Kelly. Beech St. in Kearny and Private funeral services he wishes to extend a were under the direction special thank you to Dr. of the Mulligan Funeral Edward Killilea and the Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., staff at St. Michael’s. Harrison. A graveside Ed was a member service was held at Arof the FOP, Teamsters Locals 27 and 641, and the lington Cemetery, Kearny. Belleville VFW. In lieu of For information or to flowers, kindly consider a send condolences to the donation to the Wounded family, please visit www. mulliganfh.com. Warrior Project.

that’s all well and good, because we’d have two fields. The third option is we wait and do the Oval first. We should decide in the next month or two.” Still, even if the town succeeds in getting the CDBG cash, it will need a lot more dough to do the work, Santos said, since the total project cost has been estimated at $1,786,000. And the outlook for snagging the CDBG funding isn’t good, the mayor conceded. He said the expectation is that, given the full-court pressure by Republican legislators to button down federal spending, “the expectation is that Congress will reduce the pot of federal dollars available. We don’t know if [the CDBG allocation to counties] will be fully funded.” – Ron Leir Grace Sherwen Grace Sherwen (nee Broderick) died at home on March 23. She was 97. Born in Hoboken, she lived most of her life in Kearny. Arrangements were by Armitage and Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral Mass was held at St. Stephen’s Church and burial followed in Arlington Cemetery in Kearny. www.armitagewiggins. com. Grace was very involved with St. Stephen’s Church. She was the cook at the parish school, she was a member of the Rosary Society and The Seniors. She regularly volunteered at the church. Grace also loved to bowl and was an avid reader. Wife of the late John D. Sherwen and sister of the late Julia LaForgia and Margaret Maher, she is survived by her children, Patricia and J. Douglas Sherwen Jr. (Laurie), along with many loving nieces and nephews and their families. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Stephen’s Church, specifically for the restoration of the stained glass windows.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2015

The man who stops advertising to save money is like the man who stops the clock to save time. - Thomas Jefferson

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