2018 03 14 obs1 by The Observer Newspaper

March 14, 2018 • www.theobserver.com • Vol. CXXX, No. 44

HIGHLIGHTS St. Patrick’s Day promo.

Page 12

COVERING: BELLEVILLE • BLOOMFIELD • EAST NEWARK • HARRISON • KEARNY • LYNDHURST • NORTH ARLINGTON • NUTLEY

GETTING HIS DUE

Man’s discovery saved countless lives in Belleville By Karen Zautyk kzautyk@theobserver.com BELLEVILLE — At the intersection of Belleville and Franklin avenues stands the imposing building that was once the Essex County Isolation Hospi-

Main photo: The original TB Hospital in Belleville opened in 1911. Inset: Albert Schatz’s 1938 high school yearbook photo.

tal — a 550-bed facility whose “isolated” patients included a sizable number suffering from tuberculosis. In 1929, when the facility was built, highly-contagious TB was an incurable disease. Also known as consump-

tion, it had been a literal plague upon mankind for thousands of years — according to researchers, between 5,000 and 9,000. It is obviously impossible to calculate See TB, Page 25

Doomed East River chopper took off in Kearny By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com A helicopter that crashed into New York City’s East River Sunday, March 11, killing all five of its passengers, took off

from a helipad in South Kearny, according to numerous published reports. The chopper went down in the East River at around 7 p.m. that night, the Federal Aviation Administration said in

a Tweet, though it was not immediately clear what time the chopper took off from South Kearny. The helicopter, red in color, was a Eurocopter AS350 with tail ID

N350LH, operated by Liberty Helicopters, which lists its address as 165 Western Road, Kearny — just several See CHOPPER, Page 26

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

RENOVATION SALE ENDS MONDAY, MARCH 19TH

Big changes coming to Melray’s

or some, it may be hard to believe — but Melray’s Furniture, on Ridge Road in North Arlington — has been in business since 1940. For 78 years, the store’s owners have always taken pride that their customers are more than just numbers. They’re instead treated like family. The store has always had great prices. It’s always had that smalltown feel to it. But now, three generations later, Amy Filippone, the store’s general manager, says she’s ready to take Melray’s to a new level — with a more modern approach to furniture — and as such, over the last few weeks, the store has had a renovation sale … and it’s now time to turn attention to the new, modern store. And it won’t just be furniture. Filippone, whose dad, Buddy, is still around, came up with the idea in conversation with her father. She wanted to build on the business’s nearly 80-year history — with a new flare. “But I want people to know my dad is still here and will be here,” Filippone said. “He’s been here for 50 years — and it was his dad before that. Our location is 50,000 square-feet. It’s currently somewhat old-fashioned.” The renovation sale, Filippone says, was highly successful. And because of it, profits made will go toward the new look of the place. “We want this to be a place where Millennials can come, for modern styles, and furnish their entire home,” she said. “You can’t always do that at a place like Raymour and Flanigan. So we want our store to be a one-stop experience — a place where customers can come for their furniture, for living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms all at the same time.” What sets Melray’s apart from places like Raymour and Flanigan is quite extensive, Filippone says. “When customers come to us, they can expect deliveries very quickly,” she said. “And we don’t outsource deliveries. From the start to the finish — when you enter to buy furniture to delivery — you’ll be dealing with Melray’s employees.”

But it doesn’t end there. The variety of furniture Melray’s offers tops just about any big-box furniture retailers. “Millennials want variety,” Filippone said. “When they go into a place like Raymour & Flanigan, much of what they find is beige. No one wants just beige. Come visit us — you’ll find a great variety of colors … and not just beige.” “I am so proud of what we’ve done over the years,” Filippone said. “And we’re very excited as we look to the future.” That future, meanwhile, means other asthetic changes to the Melray’s property. Over the years, there’s been a doctor’s office nearby. But that all changes with the renovations as Filippone’s husband, John Cabrera, prepares to open one of the few, fullservice bakeries in the area, not just in North Arlington. Cabrera currently owns Mill’s Bakery, Wood-Ridge. He bought it eight years ago. And after that many years of success, he’s looking to expand — and will do so right next to Melray’s. “Daily, there’s a line out the door at the (current) bakery,” Filippone said. “His big specialty is a pecan ring. He’s also noted for his donuts and cookies — and he has a huge following. We figured we had the space, and he was looking to expand, so the timing is perfect.” The new bakery will feature all kinds of cakes, too, made to order. And Cabrera is certainly no novice to the baking industry. He’s a graduate of the nation’s top culinary school, Johnston and Wales University, Providence, R.I. and before purchasing his first bakery nearly a decade ago, he was a top baker at the Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas. He really knows what he’s doing — so once the bakery’s open, you clearly won’t be disappointed. And there will be plenty for you to choose from once the bakery opens and Melray’s reopens in the spring. So get ready — this spring promises to be a great time in up-andcoming North Arlington. An all-new Melray’s, a great new bakery — and after that, who knows what else?

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

Newly freed inmate killed in hit-run By Ron Leir rleir@theobserver.com KEARNY – A man who had been held as an inmate at the Hudson County Jail in South Kearny was killed Saturday, March 10, in the early morning hours after he was apparently run over — twice — on a nearby highway. One of the drivers has been charged in connection with the incident. Why the man was on the highway at that time isn’t fully known and a police investigation is ongoing. The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office said that at about 1:55 a.m., the Kearny Police Department got a report of a pedestrian “struck by a motor vehicle and lying in a lifeless condition in the center of Old Lincoln Highway (Truck Rts. 1&9) in Kearny.” Reportedly, the location where the body was found was near Central Avenue. The victim – identified as Naphtali Dykes, 30, of East Orange – was pronounced dead at the scene at 2:20 a.m. After arriving at the scene, detectives from the newlyformed Hudson County Regional Fatal Collision Unit found a male motorist who had remained there after realizing he had inadvertently driven over Dykes. That driver was not charged. Further investigation revealed another vehicle was involved in the incident, detectives concluded, and that suspected vehicle was located – along with its alleged operator, listed as Niraj Patel,

21, of Edison, who was charged with leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident resulting in death, a seconddegree crime. The HCPO said Dykes had been released from the Hudson County Jail, 36 Hackensack Ave., Kearny, earlier that morning. Asked for comment, Hudson County Spokesman James Kennelly confirmed Dykes had been an inmate at the jail this past weekend — (he couldn’t immediately say why he was there) — and had been on a list of 43 inmates scheduled for release during the Friday night shift. Kennelly said the “unusually high number” of inmate releases for that shift was due to a backlog having developed with the courts not having been in session earlier in the week due to the snowstorm and Dykes was probably among the last of those inmates being cleared for release. Kennelly couldn’t readily provide the time when Dykes left the jail. Dykes wasn’t a stranger to local authorities. Turns out, according to a story written by Observer correspondent Karen Zautyk on June 21, 2017, Dykes was apprehended on a burglary charge on the night of June 15, 2017, by several members of the Kearny Police Department on Washington Avenue in Belleville – opposite the Municipal Building and Belleville’s police HQ. They had tracked him there after getting calls about an intruder at a Kearny home

Inside this edition ... Opinion....................................................................8 St. Patrick’s Day.......................................................12 Sports & Recreation..................................................13 Health & Wellness Directory.......................................17 Real Estate..............................................................18 Real Estate Directory................................................19 Food & Dining Directory............................................20 Obituaries...............................................................21 Classifieds...............................................................22 Business Directory....................................................24 Tax Time.................................................................25

near Madison Avenue and the Belleville Turnpike, where he’d allegedly gotten inside through an unlocked porch-screen door, but fled after realizing someone was at home. After getting a description of the suspect and direction of flight, the officers canvassed the area and, on Passaic Avenue, got a tip that a man fitting the suspect’s description had

been seen walking across the Rutgers Street Bridge toward Belleville. After he was booked on the burglary charge, Dykes was released on a summons – and, thus, was not transported to the county lockup. This isn’t the first time that a pedestrian has met with death by auto on the highway near the jail. About 10 years ago, KPD Deputy Chief Scott

Macfie recalled, a woman who had been visiting a jail inmate around Christmas Eve was killed while walking on the highway. Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez credited the KPD for assisting in the investigation and the Edison PD for assisting with the arrest of Patel. Suarez said an investigation of the incident continues.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

CATCH ‘SISTER ACT’ AT By Ron Leir rleir@theobserver.com KEARNY — One cast member is already en route to advancing her craft on the post-secondary front; another will soon be auditioning for admission to a private school for the performing arts. Technically, they and their colleagues may be classified as amateur thespians but to their theatrical leader, they’re all top-notch, hard-working practitioners of their craft. And there will be 45 of them cavorting across the footlights at the Kearny High School auditorium stage, supported by 15 behind the scenes, as those crazy Kardinal kids present the annual KHS spring musical, “Sister Act.” Based on the movie written by Joseph Howard, the show features music by Alan Menken (“The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin,” “Little Shop

of Horrors”), lyrics by Glenn Slater and book by Cheri and Bill Steinkellner. Here’s the premise of this comedy caper: Lounge singer Deloris Van Cartier is dating a gangster Curtis and sees him commit a murder. Deloris is placed in a witness-protection program — as a nun in a convent — where she causes mayhem and is ultimately discovered by the mob. Director/choreographer Milly Gonzalez, assisted by vocal director/orchestra conductor Edward Gargiulo, said she picked this show as a vehicle for highlighting the talents of her female thespians in particular. “The girls are very strong singers and, given the musical material in the show, there are several opportunities for them to stand out,” Gonzalez said. Among those who figure to command the audience’s attention is senior Elani Felix, who plays Deloris, her

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Rehearsing a scene from ‘Sister Act,’ from left, are Arianna Garcia, Karla Santamaria, Indira Ramai, Ingrid Stokes, Julia Benedicto, Amaya Kelly and Alexandra Pasquarelli.

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third lead in a KHS musical. was accepted to study at the “[Deloris] is very outgoBarbizon International School ing,” Felix explained, “and I’m Prior credits: Miss Gray in of Modeling and Acting — “Prom Night Fright,” Daniele not.” which claims former U.S. Secin “Bring It On” and Motor Michelle Barbosa (SisAdvertising: Here is the updated template with a new photo of Jarlynn Hyde retary of State Condoleezza Mouth Mabel in “Hairspray.” ter Mary Robert), Jennifer Felix, who in December Rice as an alumna — has been Veiga (Sister Mary Patrick) occupied watching film verand Eduarda Serafim (Sister sions of “Sister Act” to help Continued on the next page get into character.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

AT KHS THIS WEEKEND Continued from previous page Mary Lazarus) — all 12th-graders — play some of the sisters who develop a tight bond with Deloris. Barbosa and Veiga both bring elements of religious life to their roles: Barbosa teaches CCD at St. Francis Xavier Church, Newark, and Veiga, as a youth council volunteer at Chosen Generation Christian Fellowship Church, Newark, creates skits to perform with the youngsters. A veteran performer at W.H.A.T. (West Hudson Arts & Theater) Co. of Kearny, Barbosa was actually a reluctant latecomer to the stage. Like the postulate nun she portrays, “I was shy,” she confessed. “That’s the reason I got into theater.” She credits her friend Alyssa Fink, another W.H.A.T. stalwart, with talking her into trying out for the group’s 2015 production of “Lysistrata Jones” and ended up getting the role of Hetaira. The result? “I fell in love with it,” she said. No newcomer to singing, Barbosa performs with the K-Birds chorus but still had to train her voice to reach a high register. “I never thought I could belt,” she said. Veiga plays a contrasting character, a nun she describes as “charismatic, lovable, out there, living it every moment, but also very accepting of everyone” — someone she felt she could readily adapt. “My parents — who are immigrants from Brazil — raised me to be outgoing and inde-

pendent,” Veiga said, “and the stage is the place where I felt at home and vulnerable at the same time.” Veiga is “100% committed” to pursuing acting and, to that end, she’s prepping for an April audition for a New York acting school where, if she’s accepted, she hopes to go for a 2-year performing arts certificate program and, later, enroll at a college for a double-major in biology and theater. A veteran of four KHS musicals, Serafim said doing “Sister Act” is “probably one of my favorite years, it’s been great working with everybody in the cast.” Her challenge has been to “find the right breathing technique” to sing in a lower register without straining her voice. A well-rounded member of the KHS community — the K-Birds, senior class SGA secretary, plus chess, debate and Japanese clubs — Serafim is aiming to stay active in the larger community as a political science major in college. Maybe a politician in the making? Says Serafim: “I want to be a voice for people who don’t have a voice.” Oh, lest we forget, there are also male actors in this show: for example, seniors Albert “Ricky” Clark and Javian Pereira play Curtis the gangster and Eddie the cop, respectively. Clark has grown a goatee to accentuate his gangster persona of “macho, courageous, charismatic — the opposite of myself.” And he’s drawn on some cinematic displays of bad guys as portrayed by the actors in “Goodfellas” to inspire him.

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“I take bits and pieces of what I see and put that into my work,” he explained. Whatever it takes to get respect from his fellow gang members. Pereira, meanwhile, who plays the officer assigned to protect Deloris, is another character who starts out “shy” but then watch out! And, spoiler alert, check out this

dude’s action with Deloris. Features unique to this production listed by Gonzalez include: musical numbers designed “almost like marching band formations at a halftime show,” more “intricate lighting” to simulate the disco ball at the lounge scene and stained glass at a church and movable scenery to ease

transitions from one scene to another. “Sister Act” — which runs 105 minutes with intermission — will be presented March 15, 16 and 17 at 7 p.m. in the KHS auditorium. Tickets are $8 for students and senior citizens and $10 for the general public. Kearny senior citizens can see it for free March 13 at 7 p.m.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

BOE facing fiscal mess, loss of superintendent school system is losing the best thing that has happened in many years. I vote ‘yes’ with deep regret.” Audience members cheered DeMarco. So, for the second time in five years, the township school district has lost its leader in mid-stream amid turmoil. In the current episode, DeMarco – appointed to the top spot in July 2016 – is leaving after having been renewed for

By Ron Leir rleir@theobserver.com LYNDHURST – The Lyndhurst Board of Education voted Feb. 27 to accept the resignation of Shauna DeMarco as superintendent of schools, effective June 30, and appointed an internal search committee to find a new administrator. BOE President James “Chickie” Vuono said: “The

a 5-year term only months after the disclosure that the district is facing a $1.4 million deficit not of her making. She gave notice Feb. 2. A predecessor in the job, Tracey Marinelli, abruptly vacated her position in 2015 with three years left in her contract, filing a hostile work environment complaint against her employers and taking a comparable job with Little Falls schools.

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Integrated Preschool Program for 3 Year Olds Kearny Public Schools 172 Midland Avenue (Main Entrance on Elm Street) Kearny, NJ 07032 Kearny Public Schools will hold registration for a half-day integrated preschool program for 3-year-olds on Monday, March 26, 2018 and Tuesday, March 27, 2017. A child who is THREE years of age on or before OCTOBER 1st is eligible to enter the PreK-3 Program. Enrollment is open to 18 typical preschool children who will be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis. If the entire registration process (medical and residency) is not complete you will be placed on the waiting list. All children must be toilet trained to enter the program. Parents are responsible for paying tuition to the Board of Education at the rate of $200 per month for 10 months. The integrated preschool class will be located at Garfield School. All necessary forms can be obtained from our website: www.kearnyschools.com or the Board of Education Office. On the date of registration, you should bring ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS with you in order to secure your child’s placement. Board of Education staff will be available to assist with the registration process. Registration will be held at the Board of Education Office on the dates noted above from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. PLEASE USE THE ELM STREET ENTRANCE WHEN YOU ARRIVE.

An interim superintendent filled in between Marinelli’s departure and DeMarco’s appointment. DeMarco, who had spent 12 years in the district, serving as teacher, high school principal and assistant superintendent before her elevation to the top job, said at last month’s BOE session she would not disclose her reason for leaving at the end of the school year. She did, however, take credit for having instituted a revised curriculum that led to student improvement, Lyndhurst being named an AP Honor Roll District, expanding an inhouse special needs program, settling three employee union contracts and creating greater transparency in the business office. In September 2017 – following David DiPisa’s resignation as school business administrator (he’s now Bergenfield schools B.A.) – the BOE hired Scott Bisig, the former B.A. for the Oradell public schools, to replace DiPisa at an annual salary of $145,000. DiPisa had been B.A. since July 2012. In December 2017, the BOE disclosed that a review of the district’s 2016-17 school year had unearthed a deficit of about $1.1 million that, according to DeMarco, reflected “multiple years of overspending and [spending] practices less than ideal.” Elaborating, BOE counsel Dennis McKeever said the problem stemmed from “items being paid for out of future years’ budgets and if you stop the merry-go-round, that creates a deficit.” He said certain situations arise, such as an unanticipated “outof-district [special needs] placement” that requires additional spending of money not budgeted. But now, McKeever said, “we’re going to make reconciliation [of budget line items] happen.” Asked by a resident for examples of the district’s past failures to balance accounts, McKeever said: “I can’t give you details.” At any rate, according to DeMarco, “A plan was set in motion to resolve [the deficit] by the end of this school year.” The BOE authorized a corrective action plan that called for DeMarco and other administrators to voluntarily cede nearly

$44,000 in merit pay and other cash considerations, limiting custodial hours and slotting existing staff to cover vacancies. But there were more fiscal woes. In January, the state Department of Education’s Office of Fiscal Accountability & Compliance notified the district that it needed to pay back the state $301,224 in federal Title I funds for the 2014-2015 school year because, from the state’s perspective, the money was not properly accounted for. “The Board [of Education] is working with the Department of Education so the reimbursement has minimum impact on the district’s taxpayers as well as the delivery of instruction and services,” DeMarco said. “We do not have from the county a firm due date on erasing the deficit,” DeMarco said. “We could be allowed up to three years to pay it back.” Asked by The Observer if employee layoffs were being considered as a possible remedy, DeMarco offered no reply. While the district is presumably taking a closer look at reigning in spending, it still felt compelled to authorize the expenditure of $478,743 for “the LEA (Lyndhurst Education Association) retro(active) wages for the school year 201617.” Asked about that, DeMarco told The Observer, “The LEA had an expired contract in 2016-17 and they received their retro pay for that year in December [2017].” DeMarco asserted that the fiscal pressures now being felt by the district would have no impact on the $19,873,807 school improvement plan voters authorized in November 2016. Indeed, at last week’s meeting the BOE authorized the sale of $11 million in school bonds March 14, payable Sept. 14. This money, DeMarco said, “is for the projects now in progress and the remainder of the $19.8 million will follow. We are out to bid now on the Roosevelt and Columbus School projects. Construction is expected to begin in the spring and last about 18 months. The high school, Franklin School and Washington School projects will follow.”

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

New Kearny PD website up & running By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com A couple of years ago, former Police Chief John P. Dowie and Capt. Timothy Wagner had conversations about putting together a website for the Kearny Police Department. But instead, Wagner focused more on establishing the KPD’s social-media presence. But now, a few years after Wagner perfected the department’s socialmedia presence — he’s put together impressive Facebook and Twitter pages — the department’s new website, at www.kearnypolice.org, is up and running. Wagner says he enlisted the help of Det. John Fabula, president of the Kearny Police Department’s PBA union, since it was Fabula who designed that group’s website a few years ago. At first, Wagner tried using Wordpress to put the site together. But eventually, he moved it over to a Wix site. “The Wix site was a hundred-million times easier,” Wagner admitted. But why put together a website — isn’t social media enough? Hardly. The new website will have many benefits, especially for those who don’t use Facebook, Twitter — or other socialmedia sites. For starters, residents can now submit tips to the KPD, something that’s not as easy to do with Facebook, etc. “It can be anonymous if tipsters want that,” Wagner said, even though an email address is needed to submit tips. Wagner assured us of the anonymity. The site also allows the KPD to send out news releases — like it did during last week’s

Nor’easter — about parking, plowing, street sweeping and more. The most recent report came March 9, announcing that street sweeping enforcement would resume along Kearny and Davis avenues on Monday, March 12. Beyond that, the site also has a section about the department’s command staff — including bios on Chief George King, Deputy Chief Scott Macfie and Capts. Wagner, John Gouveia, David Feldhan and Chuck Fergie. Wagner amended an old history of the KPD that was written, many years ago, by retired Officer Jim Mackintosh. The history includes several classic photos — including one of the KPD operating a horsedrawn carriage called “Pony Patrol Rides” and one with an officer guarding and guiding late-actor James Gandolfini during a filming of “The Sopranos.” Each of the department’s specialized units are explained — Patrol, the Detective Bureau, Traffic, Juvenile Aid, Community-Oriented Policing (COP), Vice (drugs and prostitution), the Motorcycle Unit (mostly ceremonial and part-time), Information Technology, Records, the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI), Office of Emergency Management, Internal Affairs, EmergencyServices Unit (ESU), Evidence, Honor Guard and Records. On the site, you’ll be able to read the department’s annual crime report and the department’s Internal Affairs Report. There’s also a spot where residents can download various forms and links to other policerelated matters, including how to apply for a firearms permit, how to apply for a handicapped

parking space, registration forms for people who may wander because of a medical condition and more. In all, Wagner and Dowie’s vision of a few years is now a reality under new Chief King thanks to Wagner’s

perseverance. “This is a great way for us to let the people know what we do — what we’re doing,” Wagner said. “The reality is that we have two or three people at most taking phone calls, and at times like Sandy,

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for example, when it’s better for people not to call with non-emergencies, we can better communicate with the residents of Kearny about what we’re dealing with.” Remember: visit the new KPD website at www.kearnypolice.org.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

thoughts&views 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 editorial@theobserver.com or mailed to 39 Seeley Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032. Anonymous letters will not be published under any circumstances.

A bit of forgotten baseball history

In Memoriam Mary Tortoreti 1942-2016 Lisa Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising Director Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising Robert Pezzolla General Manager Kevin Canessa Editorial, Web, Social Media Ron Leir Karen Zautyk Journalists Jim Hague Sportswriter Michelle Rybeck Graphic Designer Kim Pezzolla Sales

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By Karen Zautyk Did you know that Cleveland once had a pro-baseball team called the Spiders? Do you care? As someone who bleeds Yankee blue, my answer to that would have been “no.” But that’s before I started reading an absolutely fascinating tome, “That’s Not in My American History Book.” Author Thomas Ayres is an investigative reporter, whose skills in that field are obvious from the amount of investigation that went into his book. It is described as “a compilation of little-known events and forgotten heroes” and ranges from the Vikings to Richard Nixon (not a hero) and between and beyond. Open it at random and find yourself immersed in some fascinating account. Such as that of the Spiders and their forgotten hero, Louis Sockalexis, whose more-than-a-century-old story prompted this column. As did a 2018 decision by Cleveland’s team. As just about everything in history — American and otherwise — there is debate about this, but the expert consensus is that Sockalexis was the first Native American to play MajorLeague baseball. A member of the Penobscot nation, he was born in 1871 on a reservation in Maine, where, Ayres writes, his “amazing athletic ability” was first evidenced. In his teens, he attended a Catholic high school, where he was the star player on its baseball team — a star so bright he came to the attention of college coaches. In an era when a Native American college student was virtually unheard of, Sockalexis first enrolled, in 1893, at Holy Cross College in Massachusetts, then transferred to Notre Dame in 1895. At Holy Cross, Ayres notes, Sockalexis’ batting average was .444 — and he also played football and competed in track. But before he could complete even one season at Notre Dame, he was scouted and signed by the Spiders. However, the outfielder played pro ball for only three seasons: 18971899. Celebrated by promoters and sportswriters as a superstar before

he even took the field, he more often than not rose to the fans’ expectations. But they expected perfection. Anything less was unacceptable. Add to that the bigotry Sockalexis had to endure, including racial slurs and spectators imitating war whoops and war dances. Ayres notes that the player eventually “became a daily target for critical stories by cynical sportswriters.” Under the constant pressure, Sockalexis began drinking. Heavily. Which, of course, affected his game. And then, his Wikipedia bio says, “when sports journalists attributed his rapid decline to alcoholism, they identified the disease as the inherent ‘Indian weakness.’” The man whom one pro coach said “should have been the greatest player of all time” found his majorleague career too soon over. He reportedly played awhile in the minors then returned to Maine to coach kids’ teams, but gave up baseball altogether in 1903.

Sockalexis, who battled not only alcoholism but also tuberculosis and heart problems, died in 1913. He was just 42. Two years later, Cleveland changed the name of its American League team (then called the Naps) to the Indians, reportedly to honor him. What hasn’t honored him, or any other Native American, is the Cleveland team’s logo, the hideously offensive “Chief Wahoo.” In February, Cleveland announced the grotesque caricature finally would be removed from uniforms and stadium signs — but not until the 2019 season. And it is likely to remain on souvenir items. Wahoo. (Note: We couldn’t figure out how the Spiders got their name, so we asked our colleague and Central Park/AMC pitcher/right-fielder Ron Leir, who, within minutes, had researched the answer: “The team was named for their skinny and spindly players.”)

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

KPD: Big man with a horn! By Karen Zautyk kzautyk@theobserver.com KEARNY — We hope you will excuse us, but as we were taking notes on this particular police-blotter report, we couldn’t help thinking about that TV commercial showing George Washington crossing the Delaware Turnpike and hollering at a horn-blaring driver. Except George didn’t pull out a musket and threaten the guy. Anyway, here’s the KPD story: At 1:40 p.m. on March 2, Sgt. Joseph Vulcano and Officers Sean Wilson, Pat Becker and Richard Poplaski were dispatched to the South Kearny intersection of Rts. 1/9 and Jacobus Avenue on a report of a traffic dispute during which a gun was displayed. According to police, the incident involved two tractor-trailers, one of which unexpectedly merged into the other’s lane, causing that driver to hit his horn. The other trucker then allegedly pointed “what appeared to be a small black handgun” at the horn-blower. Police said he didn’t fire it, but fled the scene. The officers checked the area, and Vulcano, with Poplaski as back-up, located the truck on Central Avenue, had the driver exit and reportedly found inside a black .45/.410 Taurus handgun loaded with five rounds of ammo. Also recovered, police said, were two .45-cal. hollow-point rounds and three shotgun shells. Driver Tyre Rouse, 34, of Charleston, S.C., was arrested on charges of unlawful possession of a weapon, possession for unlawful purposes, possession of hollow-point bullets and aggravated assault. He was remanded to the Hudson County Jail. ••• Other recent reports from the Kearny police blotter included the following: Feb. 27 Officers Kevin Carvalho and David Bush, on patrol at 1:04 a.m., observed an individual in a dark hoodie peering into driveways in the area of Highland Avenue and Afton Street. Police said he apparently

entered an alley on Highland, where the officers then found three males in a 2005 Nissan, from which wafted a pottish odor. When the occupants exited, front-seat passenger Andres Carpio, 19, of Kearny, was allegedly found to be in possession of a vaporizer pen containing marijuana. Carpio was charged with possession of pot and drug paraphernalia and was released on a summons. His two companions, both 20-year-old Kearny males, were not charged. March 1 Officer Michael Santucci responded to Walmart at 9:26 p.m. where security reported that a shoplifter had stolen a $99 LG Boost cellphone. Apprehended, suspect Aniyyah Harrell, 23, of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., was also allegedly found to be in possession of stolen clothing and electronics worth $110.49. Police said she was also found to have two $1,000 warrants from Carteret, and, when searched at KPD headquarters, a bag of suspected cocaine. She was charged with shoplifting and possession of CDS and drug paraphernalia and was sent to the county jail. March 3 At 3:04 a.m., at Schuyler and Bergen avenues, Officer Bush stopped a 1994 Acura with no front license plate, detected a familiar odor and, in plain view, saw two hand-rolled, burnt marijuana cigars and a plastic bag with drug residue, police said. A search of the car also allegedly produced an open bottle of prescription cough syrup in the name of neither driver nor passenger and a plastic bag containing suspected marijuana cereal. (Reefer Bran? Weed Flakes?) Police said the driver — Sofia Reguinho, 20, of Kearny — admitted it all belonged to her and she was also found to be in possession of four marijuana-oil cartridges and (in her right boot) an electronic vaporizer pen with pot oil. She was charged with three counts of CDS-possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of CDA in a MV, and for the missing

license plate. Reguinho was released on summonses. Her passenger, a 22-year-old Kearny male, was released without charges. March 5 At 6:08 a.m., Officers Malinda Esposito and John Fearon were dispatched to Hoyt Street on a report of two people sleeping in a parked car, and there, police said, found a 2008 Honda, blocking a hydrant, its engine running, keys in the ignition, two males snoozing in the front seat, and a strong odor of alcohol apparent. Police said driver Rafael Aguilar, 24, of Newark, failed both field sobriety tests and an Alcotest and was charged with

DWI and blocking the hydrant. The car was impounded. The passenger was taken home, and Aguilar was released on a summons. ••• Officer Mina Ekladious was on patrol on Johnston Avenue at 9:29 p.m. when, police said, an unknown male, with clenched fist, ran up to his KPD car and, for no apparent reason, reportedly yelled: “Get the f--- out of the car. I want to fight. I’m gonna f--- you up, you piece of s---. Get out of the f---ing car.” Police said Ekladious did get out, in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, but the angry man — Matthew Kochell, 27, of Harrison — would not

be de-escalated, and the cop had to call for back-up: Officers Victor Girdwood, Giovanni Rodriguez and Jose PerezFonseca. Despite continued resistance and challenges to fight, police said, Ekladious and Girdwood managed to subdue and handcuff Kochell, who was then read his rights, to which he allegedly responded, “Bite me, -----.” En route to HQ , Kochell reportedly banged his head on the patrol car partition, and once in a cell, blocked the camera with his shirt. He was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest and was sent to the county jail on a warrant complaint.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

Truck causes poles, wires to fall: Nutley PD NUTLEY – A private school was evacuated and several vehicles were damaged at mid-day Monday, March 12, in the aftermath of an incident that involved downed power lines at a key access point to Nutley. Luckily, no one was reported injured in the mishap on Park Avenue, just near Washington Avenue near the Belleville border.

NPD Chief Tom Strumolo said the episode began shortly after noon when the top of a large truck traveling along Park is believed to have snagged a low-hanging power line on the south side of Park. As the truck continued – with the driver possibly unaware of what was happening – the tension of the wire being extended pulled down other wires and

snapped two utility poles, causing them to topple next to Eastwick College property. Some of the loosened wires landed atop several parked vehicles whose occupants were still inside the cars. Additionally, several transformers attached to the poles crashed, including one that smashed onto a vehicle reportedly parked in the Parkway Autobody lot.

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Nutley firefighters – later aided by PSE&G crews – responded quickly to remove the live wires from the parked vehicles and sidewalks. Also, as a precaution, Eastwick staff – aided by Nutley first responders – evacuated the college building. “We got out everyone out safely,” Strumolo added. As traffic was rerouted away from Park, PSE&G personnel attended to the

downed poles. As of late Monday afternoon, those crews were still on the scene working on fixing those poles, the chief said. Strumolo said the NPD was “trying to pull footage from surveillance cameras” in and around the accident scene in hopes of learning more about how the accident happened and to get a description of the truck to circulate. — Ron Leir

Submit news To submit a press release to The Observer, send all pertinent information (text, photos, etc.) by email to editorial@ theobserver.com. We cannot guarantee placement in the newspaper, but we will do our best to publish your news.

aroundtown

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

Belleville

At the library Here’s a listing of the activities being hosted during the coming week by the Belleville Public Library & Information Center, 221 Washington Ave.: Adult Events AARP Tax Preparation Help, Thursday, March 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free help to anyone who can’t afford a tax prep service, call 973-450-3434 for an appointment; Movie Mondays, March 19, noon-6:30 p.m., 4-part series traces the impact of women on politics, religion, science and other aspects of history from 10,000 B.C. to the present; Friends St. Patrick’s Day Game Show & Lunch, Friday, March 16, at 12:30 p.m.; Library Board Meeting, Wednesday, March 14, at 6 p.m., public welcome; ShopRite Cooking Demo, Wednesday, March 14, 1:302:30 p.m., ShopRite dieticians

offer cooking tips for kids, call 973-450-3434 to register; SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Friday, March 16, 9:30-11:30 a.m., SNAP counselors provide one-on-one assistance to help low-income individuals and families become eligible for the program; LVA Tutor Workshop, Tuesday & Thursday, March 15 & 20, noon-3 p.m., Literacy Volunteers of America provide free instruction for tutors in Basic Literacy and ESL; Salsa for Beginners, Tuesday, March 20, 7-7:45 p.m., dance instructors walk novices through the steps. Teen Events Anime Night, Thursday, March 15, 5:30-7 p.m., get to know more about the younger of Konoha’s Green Beasts in Naruto Spin-off: Rock Lee & his Ninja Pals; Board Games & Coloring Club, Friday, March 16, 3-4:30 p.m., coloring pages & other supplies provided.

Children’s Events Kids Coloring Club, Friday, March 16, 3-4 p.m., for ages 4-11, supplies provided; Bookworm Bingo, Monday, March 19, 5-6 p.m., for ages 5-11; Wii Free Play, Tuesday, March 20, 3-6 p.m., for ages 5-11 to play on the Nintendo Wii gaming system; Storybook Friends, Wednesday, March 14, at 10 a.m., for ages 2-6 to share stories, songs & crafts; Children’s Reading Club, Thursday, March 15, 5-6 p.m., pick out a new book or bring your own; Saturday Play Day, March 17, 10 a.m.-noon, for ages 5-11 to play board games & Legos.

Kearny

crew eight and the 2003 boys’ baseball team. An induction dinner takes place Friday, April 20, at 6:30 p.m. at the Fiesta in Wood-Ridge. Call Zibbie Viscuso at 201-998-5961 for more information and for tickets/ costs. Garden Greet session The Kearny Community Garden sponsors a Meet & Greet March 24 at the Kearny Public Library, 318 Kearny Ave., from 10 a.m. to noon, to share information about the enterprise and how to join. A representative of the N.J. Department of Environmental Protection will speak about green infrastructure and there will be a free rain barrel giveaway.

Athletic HOF Dinner upcoming The Kearny High School Athletic Hall of Fame will Lyndhurst induct the 1974 boys’ one-mile track relay team, the 1983 girls’ Bergen County outreach distance medley track relay The Bergen County Clerk’s team, the 1981 boys’ soccer Office will provide satellite team, the 1989 boys’ lightweight office and passport outreach crew four, the 1989 girls’ varsity services at the Lyndhurst

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

Municipal Building, 367 Valley Brook Road, March 14 and 15, from 10 a.m. to noon, in the second-floor office of Rep. William Pascrell. Staff from the County Clerk’s office will offer assistance with passport applications, business trade names and notary oaths. Additionally, plus senior citizen/veteran/exempt firefighter discount photo cards will be made available. For more information, call the County Clerk’s office in Hackensack at 201-336-7006.

Nutley Poetry at the library Nutley High School senior and published poet Noah Roselli will read from his most recent work, “Firestarters,” published in 2017, Thursday, March 15, at 7 p.m. at the Nutley Public Library, 93 Booth Drive. Books will be available for purchase. For more information, call the library at 973-667-0405.

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BOE signs off on $300K payout to disgruntled principal member Thomas Grolimond moved to table it but the motion failed by a 4-3 vote. BELLEVILLE – A Belleville Upon reconsideration, public school principal who after the state monitor Tom sued after being demoted Egan had cautioned that taklost the chance – for now ing the matter to trial could at least – to return but will end up costing the board be collecting a consolation $1 million in legal fees, the prize. board voted 4-3 to approve it. The Belleville Board of Voting against the settleEducation voted Feb. 26 to ment were board vice presiapprove a settlement agreedent Nelson Barrera, Erika ment that awards the litigant, Jacho and Grolimond, who Loraine Gammaro, $300,000 worried that the BOE was for dropping the case. setting a bad precedent for However, the agreement any future similar legal acstipulates that Gammaro “is tions. free to apply for any position The agreement says it is within the Belleville Public not intended as an “admisSchool District …” but cannot sion by the board … of any institute any legal action if violation of any federal, state her application is denied for or local statute or regulation at least three years hence. … or of any unlawful acts When the proposed setwhatsoever by the board” tlement – recommended and goes on to say that the by Schools Superintendent settlement payment “is made Richard Tomko – was preby an insurance carrier solely sented to the BOE as a late to avoid the inconvenience starter to the agenda, board By Ron Leir rleir@theobserver.com

and cost of litigation ….” Here’s some background on the case: Gammaro, who had previously served as an interim principal of Elementary School 10, was appointed principal assigned to Elementary School 9, effective for the 2013-2014 school year during the tenure of former Schools Superintendent Helene Feldman. On May 15, 2014, Gammaro was notified by a letter from Feldman that her contract as a non-tenured principal was not being renewed and that she would be returning to the classroom as a high school business teacher. Gammaro then filed a legal challenge with state Department of Education, claiming that Feldman told her the letter was sent by mistake and that the BOE had acted in an arbitrary, capricious or unreasonable manner in failing

to renew her appointment as principal. The BOE contended Gammaro had been misled by the superintendent, affirmed the letter’s legality, adding that the monitor had recommended the non-renewal of all non-tenured staff due to a fiscal crisis in the district and that Gammaro’s non-renewal was never rescinded. A state administrative law judge recommended dismissal of Gammaro’s complaint and the state Commissioner of Education concurred in April 2016. Meanwhile, in September 2014, Gammaro filed an additional complaint with the U.S. District Court, alleging that her demotion and the BOE’s failure to promote her violated her Constitutional rights and the state discrimination law. She also claimed civil rights discrimination on the basis of her sex, age,

marital status and political affiliation. Gammaro is the daughterin-law of Belleville Councilwoman Marie Strumolo Burke, who ran, unsuccessfully, against Mayor Raymond Kimble in the May 2014 municipal election. Strumolo Burke’s signature appears in the settlement agreement as the notary witness to Gammaro’s acceptance of the settlement. The federal complaint was officially terminated by District Court Judge Claire C. Cecchi on Jan. 31, pending the settlement’s conclusion at the time. Bloomfield attorney Brian J. Aloia represented Gammaro in connection with the federal suit; the BOE attorneys who handled the matter were Eric Harrison and Adam Sterling Weiss of the Edison law firm Methfessel & Werbel.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

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sports&recreation Belleville names Johnson as new football coach

SPORTS VIEW

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

CONTACT JIM HAGUE AT OGSMAR@AOL.COM

In Kearny, there was jubilation and sorrow When it comes to the world of high school sports, there are always the highs and lows. There’s the joy and jubilation that comes with winning. And there’s the sadness and sorrow that comes with a young man tragically losing his life. In Kearny last weekend, there was a sense of all of the above, all wrapped up in gold medals for some and funereal flower arrangements for another. When it comes to celebration, then there’s no greater feeling than the one that Kearny native Jacob Cardenas experienced last Sunday when he claimed the 195-pound NJSIAA state wrestling championship, becoming only the second kid in the history of the town to win a state championship. Cardenas was born and raised in Kearny. He still resides in town. He competes now for Bergen Catholic and trains regularly with the other wrestler from Kearny to win a state title, namely David Cordoba, who has a gym and training center in Little Falls. When Cardenas was in fifth grade and competing for the Kearny Recreation Department’s wrestling program, Cordoba saw him and immediately proclaimed that Cardenas would become the second Kearny resident to ever

win a state title. Guess what? Cordoba was right with his bold prediction. Sure, there are purists out there who will say that Cardenas chose to attend another school to wrestle, that he first went to Queen of Peace and then to Bergen Catholic, instead of staying home to wrestle for the native Kardinals. Bottom line is this: It doesn’t matter what school the kid competes for. Jacob Cardenas is from Kearny. He still resides here. He deserves to feel like a champion in his hometown, because guess what. He is one. Let the naysayers spew their hatred. Cardenas is one of us. And he’s done something now that only one other ever did. He’s a state champ. And guess what? Cardenas will get the chance to be the only two-time state champion from Kearny next year, because Cardenas is only a junior. It’s a great story, one that should not diminish in time. However, while Kearny celebrated a new champion in Cardenas, the town all got together in incredible sadness. Last Tuesday, thousands of mourners went to the services for former Kearny soccer great See VIEW, Page 15

Belleville High School hasn’t enjoyed a winning season over 20 years. The last season that had even a hint of success was in 2007, when Joe Fischer guided the Buccaneers to a 5-5 record and the school’s last berth in the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 1, Group IV playoffs. In those 10 years since qualifying for the state playoffs, Belleville has gone a combined 23-77. There’s been a parade of coaches to come through the Belleville football door and then leave. Eight men have come and gone over the last 20 years. Mario Cuniglio was the last to hold the position and resigned after just two seasons, posting a 1-9 record last fall. So why would anyone want to be the head coach at Belleville? Enter Jermain Johnson. The 45-year-old native of Bloomfield was hired last week as the new head football coach at Belleville and he’s determined to do what so many others have failed to do since the legendary John Senesky was unceremoniously removed from the position two decades ago. Plain and simple, Johnson expects to win. Not right away, mind you, but someday in the near foreseeable future. “I wasn’t looking at Belleville at all,” said Johnson, who played football at Bloomfield, then Montclair State and later professionally with the New Jersey Red Dogs of the Arena Football League. “But the right people talked to me and I became interested. It was like coming back home. All the right pieces seemed to just fit. I’m ecstatic and excited to be here.” Johnson has an excellent coaching pedigree. He was the head coach at Paterson

Photo courtesy of Jermain Johnson Belleville High School has a new head football coach in Jermain Johnson, a Bloomfield native who played at Bloomfield and Montclair State before becoming a head coach at Paterson Eastside and a successful assistant at Wayne Hills for the last five seasons.

Eastside for three seasons, then went to Wayne Hills and became the defensive coordinator for the Patriots, where he has remained for the past five seasons and helped the Patriots capture the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 1, Group III championship two years ago. Johnson also spent some time as an assistant coach at Montclair State under his college coach Rick Giancola. Johnson said that he met with Belleville athletic director Marcellino Marra a few weeks ago to discuss the position. “Everything passed the eyeball test,” Johnson said. “I

hung out there for a bit and liked what I saw.” Johnson said that he met with some of the players and that was the main selling point. “The kids are hungry,” Johnson said. “They’re tired of losing. They are very serious about turning things around.” Johnson said that he talked about the position with his high school coach, the legendary Chet Parlavecchio, as well as current Bloomfield coach Mike Carter and Montclair State coach Giancola. “They are my inspirations in this business,” Johnson said. “These are the guys that See COACH, next page

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

COACH

Continued from Page 13 I go to whenever I need someone to talk to. They are all big advocates of me taking this job.” Johnson said that he got an immediate positive vibe when meeting with the players. “A lot of the kids told me that they’re on board and ready to work,” Johnson said. “They’re making the commitment. I told them that I was going to treat them like they’re men.” Johnson said that he talked to other people before agreeing to taking over. “A lot of people asked me if I was crazy,” Johnson said. “But I’m telling everyone up front that I’m excited.” Johnson said in meeting with the players, he expressed what he wanted to have done. “I let them know right up front what I demand from them,” Johnson said. “I told them what I expect from them. If I have to be at their

houses to make sure that they’re eligible to play, then that’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to make men out of them. I bring the type of discipline that they need. I know that’s what they want, but it’s also what they need and that reflects on the field.” The Buccaneers had a nightmare season last fall, losing their last seven games by a combined score of 313-21, including the horrific 84-0 setback to Irvington that sent shockwaves through the entire New Jersey high school football community. Johnson vows that there will never be a score like the one against Irvington ever again — nor should there be. “A lot of things have to happen,” Johnson said. “But the first will be to change the mentality of the weight lifting program. I think seasons are won and lost in the weight room. I think that has to be embedded into their brains.” Johnson also will change the team’s philosophy beginning this fall. “We’re going to be a smash

mouth football team,” Johnson said. “We’re going to line up and try to run the ball down your throats. With the people I see, I think it can happen. Now, I just have to get those kids into the weight room. Everyone in football is trying to throw the ball all over. But if you watch the best college football team, Alabama, what are they playing? They aren’t throwing the ball all over.” Johnson also wants to emphasize speed and agility. “But that also begins in the weight room,” Johnson said of the speed drills. Marra was pleased with the hiring of Johnson. “We had over 50 applicants for the job,” Marra said. “We had to choose the person who was the best fit, who the kids would respond to the most and who knows what it takes. Coach Johnson had all the right answers to our questions. He was a college coach. He was a high school coach who won championships. For me, it was an easy fit. He is so positive and he believes that we can win.

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I think that attitude will trickle down to the kids.” Marra said that he was sold on Johnson during the interview process. “When he came in for the interview, it was like I was talking to a coach who knows what he’s talking about,” Marra said. “He wants to be successful. He has that ‘refuse-to-lose’ attitude. He wants to build a successful program. I think getting him was the right piece to the big puzzle. He’s committed to what he wants to do. I think we all feel confident with Coach Johnson. He is trying to change the culture of the program. He wants to be part of our family for a long time.” Marra addressed the fact that Belleville has had so many head football coaches since Senesky left in 1996. “I think we’re building a team, a program,” Marra said. “It’s an exciting time for us. He’s a well respected coach in the football community. He wants to be here and wants to be here for a long time. I think everyone has nothing but respect for him. The feedback has been positive throughout the state.”

Johnson knows that he has his work cut out for him. “This is not going to be a walk in the park,” Johnson said. “I know that. We need to get all hands on deck. This is not like what they had before. We’re all going to march to a different beat.” Johnson said that he’s in the process of building his coaching staff. “We’re going to bring in people who have winning ways,” Johnson said. “We need to establish a set of fundamentals and go from there.” Johnson said that he also plans on working with the coaches in the Belleville Recreation Department to develop a feeder system for the high school. “We all have to work together to make this work,” Johnson said. “I will make sure that my coaching staff gives clinics to work with the kids. Believe me, this is going to be interesting.” Sure sounds that way. Now it’s up to Jermain Johnson to prove to everyone that Belleville can actually win in football and not be a laughingstock, like the Buccaneers have been for so very long.

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VIEW

Continued from Page 13 Adrian Velasquez, who was tragically killed in a car accident last weekend in Delaware. Apparently, Velasquez, who recently was a standout soccer player at Rutgers-Newark, just completing his freshman season, was in Delaware with some friends to purchase a puppy. But Velasquez lost control of the car he was driving, killing him and another passenger, while critically injuring another of Velasquez’s teammates at Rutgers-Newark. From all reports, Velasquez was so totally beloved by his teammates in Kearny and at Rutgers-Newark, where he was named New Jersey Athletic Conference Rookie of the

Week last fall. Velasquez will be forever remembered for being the player who lifted Kearny to the 2016 NJSIAA North Jersey Section 1, Group IV championship for burying the final penalty kick. He was well on his way to having a great collegiate career with three more years to play. He had hundreds of friends both in Kearny and at R-N. The pain from the loss will not soon go away. Velasquez was only 19 years old. He had his entire life still in front of him. So while we should all have been celebrating the achievements of Cardenas, we also mourn in the tragic passing of Velasquez. The highs and lows of sports all wrapped into one weekend for one town. It’s hard to fully celebrate when the town is experiencing so much pain.

Photo by Jim Hague

There was a makeshift memorial outside the entrance to Harvey Field last weekend, honoring the life of former Kearny High School and current Rutgers-Newark player Adrian Velasquez, killed in a car accident in Delaware at the tender age of 19.

Mother Nature plays havoc with start of spring sports season By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com For all intents and purposes, the high school baseball season began last week. Just trying telling that to Mother Nature. Last Wednesday, the area was blanketed with as much as 10 inches of snow, forcing the local high school baseball coaches to scramble for practice time. “Being a baseball coach in northern New Jersey, you get kind of numb to it,” said North Arlington veteran head baseball coach Paul Marcantuono. “You kind of expect it. At least Monday and Tuesday, we got outside. Wednesday, I told my wife that we’re going to be inside for a long time. I was ready for the blustery weather.” Marcantuono said that there was at least one blessing. “We’re lucky to have (Field) turf,” Marcantuono said of the playing surface at Rip Collins Field. “But we were stuck in the gym and we only had a quarter of the gym to use. You deal with what you have to.” Marcantuono said that he has to be ingenious when it comes to keeping the kids interested in playing baseball indoors. “We come up with new drills,” Marcantuono said. “We do a lot of fundamental work and a lot of hitting. Getting an indoor (pitcher’s) mound was

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Just when it looks as if the snow had melted away from Kearny High School’s main baseball field at Franklin School, more snow was in the forecast. That news will cause the area’s coaches to pull out whatever hair they have left.

a smart idea. But there’s not a lot that the outfielders can do. They need the length to throw.” Marcantuono said that the Vikings have been working on their strength and stamina. “Every practice, we’re working on conditioning,” Marcantuono said. “We’re running in the hallways. There’s enough length in the halls to do some sprint work. We have kids who know the system and know the indoor practice routine.” Lyndhurst head coach Pat Auteri also bemoaned the wicked winter weather plaguing baseball. “It seems like every year it gets worse,” Auteri said. “We were able to get outside for two days, but that was like a tease. You get outside and start to feel good about yourself, then the snow puts a damper on everything.” Auteri also tries to keep the indoor practices light. “We try to keep it as up tempo as possible,” Auteri said. “The old days of sitting around and watching someone else take batting practice are gone. You have to simulate game experience. You find a way to get things done.” Lyndhurst lost three scrimmages that were postponed because of the snow. Auteri’s hands are tied somewhat because of a lack of an indoor facility. “We don’t even have a batting cage,” Auteri said. “We hit soft balls in the gym, but we don’t get a legit feel. It’s very tough, but we’re also lucky to have the turf. But there’s not much to do when you get as much snow as we got.” The Golden Bears welcome

back standout pitcher Frankie Venezia, who should be among the very best hurlers in northern New Jersey, even though Venezia is only a junior. “We have a lot of pitching depth, which should help us,” Auteri said. “I’m excited about the group we have.” The Golden Bears also have an advantage. Thursday, they were scheduled to board a plane for Fort Pierce, Fla., for five days. The Golden Bears will play six exhibition games while in Florida. “We are lucky that our administration allows us to do it,” Auteri said. “While we’re there, we set aside 90 minutes each day for school work.” Kearny head coach Dave Smart also had to resort to going inside Franklin School for workouts. “It’s always good just to get a good look of the kids on the field,” Smart said. “It’s very hard to gauge anything in the gym.” Smart was still conducting tryouts by press time Monday. “We have a lot of young kids coming out for baseball for the first time,” Smart said. “We’re seeing some good numbers. So far, we’ve done a lot of hitting. We can do some infield drills. We can hit some ground balls in the gym. We can get the kids lined up properly and know where they’re supposed to be.” But then, after a few days of indoor workouts… “Cabin fever sets in,” Smart said. “We really need to keep it fresh to keep it interesting. If you keep doing the same thing, you lose kids. They want to play.” See FIELD, Page 16

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

Thiele nets 1,000-point milestone As the high school basketball season was winding down to the last precious few games, Thiele knew that he was apBrendan Thiele vividly proaching the number, remarkremembered being a freshman ably almost simultaneously at St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City and noticing a banner that along with teammate Shayne hangs prominently and proudly Simon. When Thiele and Simon in the Prep gymnasium. entered St. Peter’s, the basIt’s a banner with the nine ketball team was in complete names of former Marauder turmoil. The former head coach hoop standouts that were fortunate enough to score 1,000 had resigned and seven players decided to transfer from the points in their respective caschool in mass exodus. It apreers at Grand and Warren. Thiele quickly became aware peared as if the Marauders were going to struggle for a very long of the banner and just wontime to come. dered. Photo by Jim Hague But the new coach Alex Mi“I remember the first time I LEFT: St. Peter’s Prep senior forward and Kearny native Brendan rabel allowed both Thiele and stepped into the gym and seeing the banner and the names,” Simon to play varsity basketball Thiele. RIGHT: St. Peter’s Prep senior forward Brendan Thiele right away. In reality, he had no (left) makes a move to the basket while closely guarded by Hudson said Thiele, a Kearny native Catholic’s McDonald’s All American Jahvon Quinerly in the 2017 other choice. and currently a senior forward Hudson County Tournament championship game. Thiele is headed “We stepped into a unique with the Marauders. “I thought, to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point in the fall. situation,” Thiele said. “We ‘Maybe one day.’” were blessed with a great opIncredibly, only nine varsity plateau? elite.” portunity.” players at St. Peter’s have been “To be honest with you, it’s The 1,000-point club at St. PeOver the course of their graced to reach the prestigious something as a coach that you ter’s Prep is an exclusive group. careers, both Thiele and Simon want to happen,” Mirabel said. milestone. When you consider It began with the legendary never gave a thought to reachthe rich and storied tradition “But it’s very rare, especially at George Waddleton, who scored ing the milestone. They have of basketball excellence at St. St. Peter’s Prep. It’s a tight club, 1,005 points during his days at bhmg21846 beat colon cancerthe together ad 10x6.5-m1 10:46 AM Page been starters3/1/18 for four years, but 1 a special club. Once you get Peter’s, it makes reaching Prep, graduating in 1953, before plateau even more remarkable. reaching the elusive 1,000-point 1,000 points, you’re among the he headed off to a brilliant caBy Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

reer at Holy Cross. Waddleton passed away in 2011 after a long illness, but he set the tone for the rest of the elite group. Mike Pedone was next in 1956, followed by Jim Barry in 1961. It continued on in 1962 with Frank Nicoletti, who went on to play at Syracuse University and became the roommate there with the legendary NBA AllStar Dave Bing. Nicoletti and Bing were the first roommates of different color in the history of Syracuse. There was a gap of 21 years before another player would enter the 1,000-point club when Ed Lawson joined the group in 1983. Lawson went on to play for Manhattan College. A decade later, Jack Gordon joined. He would eventually become the all-time leading scorer with 1,693 points, a record that more than likely will stand forever. Gordon went on to play at Monmouth, leading the Hawks to the NCAA Tournament. In 2011, two teammates Continued on the next page

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in consecutive games. That does not happen, especially eclipsed 1,000 points, when not at Grand and Warren, Keith Lumpkin and Kevin where 1,000-point scorers Walker both joined the club in were extremely uncommon. the same year. Lumpkin would “Those two guys committed go on to play football at Rutthemselves since Day One,” gers. Walker was a star point Mirabel said. “They’ve seen guard at nearby Caldwell the huge change in culture College, eventually playing and they’re a huge part of professionally with the Jersey that. They’re helping us to do Express of the American Bas- things the Prep way. When ketball Association. Brendan first came to Prep, we And finally, four years ago didn’t see him as a 1,000-point in 2012, Austin White scored scorer. We soon found out that 1,000 points before heading we had something special, off to NCAA Division I High because he worked hard. But Point. I never thought he would be a And that has been it. 1,000-point scorer.” That was, until last week. Thiele said that elevating his First Simon scored the 1,000th game to where he was considpoint of his career in a win in ered among the very best in the state tournament against Hudson County was because Delbarton. Simon is headed of his relentless work ethic. off to play football at Notre “Coach Mirabel molded me Dame in the fall. into the player he wanted me Then, just two days later, it to have,” Thiele said. “I played was Thiele’s turn to join the the way he told me to play, club, eclipsing the mark in the then everything came natuMarauders’ win over Seton rally after that. I was blessed Hall Prep to advance to the with a great opportunity right sectional title game against away to play varsity, but then I Don Bosco Prep, a game that worked my tail off. Scoring the the Marauders dropped in the 1,000th point was the culminafinal second of the game by a tion of my hard work.” single point. For his efforts and his The two close friends, two remarkable career, Kearny long-time teammates, get to native Thiele, the son of the put their names on the banner Continued from previous page

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funeral director Steve, has been selected as The Observer Athlete of the Week for the past week. Thiele is the final honoree for the winter sports season in the 2017-2018 scholastic sports campaign. Thiele said that he always had reaching the milestone in mind. “It was always a dream of mine,” Thiele said. “It’s huge for me and my family, for the school. It feels really good. It’s huge to have had Coach Mirabel by my side. He always pushes me and knows what I’m capable of.” “Brendan always does things the right way, the Prep way,” Mirabel said. “His parents should be proud, because they raised him the right way as well. His parents raised him to become a very good young man.” Thiele will head to the United States Military Academy at West Point in the fall and will play basketball there. “At first, I didn’t think I could see myself playing there,” Thiele said. “But I went for a visit and saw that it’s

an amazing school. There’s a great environment there. It’s an incredible responsibility with my service to the country. I can see great things happening at Army. I became very comfortable with the coaching staff there. I had a conversation with my parents and we all decided that Army was the best place for me. I’m happy with the decision I made.” Thiele knows that if he gets a little homesick, he’s only a stone’s throw away. “That was another huge factor,” Thiele said. “If I want to, I can be home in an hour and 15 minutes. Staying close to home was very important.” It was also a decision that pleased Steve Thiele, who attends almost every single one of Brendan’s games. “It was very important for my Dad,” Thiele said. “He’s my No. 1 fan and my biggest critic. I’m happy for him.” Although the Marauders’ season ended last week, Thiele is content with the way his career turned out — and getting to share the historic moment with his friend and

teammate just two days apart. It’s almost unthinkable how Prep didn’t add a single name to that banner for at times 20 years. But now, the elite club gets two new members two days apart. “It’s insane,” Thiele said. “I can’t even put it to words. Both of us worked our tails off. It’s a great feeling to do it so close. Shayne is a great friend. He’s always been there for me. When he’s playing in the NFL, we can both come back and look at this banner. Some 30-to-40 years from now, we will see our names up there. It’s just incredible.” Thiele said that he received the greatest compliment after scoring the 1,000th point. It came from a fellow member. “Keith Lumpkin shook my hand and said, ‘Welcome to the club,’” Thiele said. “I’m never going to forget that. I still can’t believe it happened.” It’s safe to say that people at St. Peter’s Prep won’t soon forget the latest member of the 1,000-point fraternity for his contributions on and off the hardwood.

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HARRISON: GREAT 2 FAM, 5 BR, 4 FULL BATH, 1 HALF BATH, HARDWOOD FLOORS, GRANITE COUNTER TOPS, 2 CAR GARAGE, DRIVEWAY FOR 2 CARS, CLOSE TO SHOPPING, CLOSE TO SCHOOLS, CLOSE TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

14.

15.

16.

NTAL NEW RE HARRISON: SPACIOUS 1ST FLOOR APARTMENT, 1 BR, 1 FULL BATH, USE OF BACKYARD, CLOSE TO SHOPPING, CLOSE TO SCHOOLS, CLOSE TO PUBLIC TRANPORTATION

By Karen Zautyk kzautyk@theobserver.com KEARNY — A twoalarm fire was reported early Saturday, March 10, in a threefamily home on Maple Street, but it was brought under control in 30 minutes, Kearny Fire Chief Steve Dyl said. Dyl said the blaze at 369 Maple St., between Grove and Liberty streets, apparently started in, and was confined to, the third-floor kitchen, but the cause was undetermined. The first alarm came in at 4:50 a.m.; the second, at 5:02, and the fire was declared under control at 5:20 a.m. Four adults and eight children were tempo-

rarily displaced, but none of the residents was injured, Dyl said. One of the adults and two children were referred to the Red Cross for housing; the others reportedly are staying with relatives or friends. According to the chief, the heaviest damage was to the third floor, which will require “long-term renovation.” He said the other two stories of the woodframe house suffered water damage but could be reoccupied pending approval by the town buildings department. Dyl cited the Kearny Police Department for assisting with the temporary Red Cross relocation and noted that Kearny EMS was also on stand-by. Dur-

A fire struck this house at 369 Maple St. Saturday.

ing the fire, the North Arlington, Belleville and Bayonne FDs covered the town. The KFD also made one rescue — saving a pet rabbit, which Dyl said suffered just “a very minor, tiny burn.” The bunny was reunited with its family and reportedly was doing fine.

LISTED NEWLY

KEARNY: 1 FAM, COLONIAL, 3 BR, 1 FULL BATH, 1 HALF BATH, MODERN EAT-IN KITCHEN, HARDWOOD FLOORS IN HALLWAYS AND BRS, FULL BASEMENT, CLOSE TO NYC TRANSPORTATION

NORTH ARLINGTON: 1 FAM, COLONIAL, 4 BR, 1 FULL BATH, 1 HALF BATH, UPDATED EAT IN KITCHEN WITH GRANITE COUNTERS, HARDWOOD FLOORING, DETACHED GARAGE PLUS 4 PARKING SPACES, CLOSE TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

2-alarm, pre-dawn fire on Maple Street

NTAL NEW RE NEWARK: NEWLY RENOVATED CONDO, 1 BR, 1 FULL BATH, KITCHEN WITH APPLIANCESM WASHER/DRYER IN UNIT, ASSIGNED PARKING SPACE, CLOSE TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

NTAL NEW RE LYNDHURST: 1ST FLOOR CONOD, 1 BR, 1 FULL BATH, LR/DR COMBO WITH NEW FLOORING, WASHER/DRYER IN BASEMENT, NO SMOKING, NO PETS, 2 PARKING SPOTS, CLOSE TO SHOPPING, CLOSE TO NYC TRANSPORTATION

HOUSE OF THE WEEK MAGNIFICENT – This Immaculate 4 bedroom Dutch Colonial sits on a huge 120 x 148 corner lot in the heart of the Kearny Manor. Beautifully maintained and renovated. The home features large rooms with crown moldings, and unique hardwood floors. Exceptional features include a gourmet kitchen, a library and a four season glass enclosed porch overlooking the expansive private backyard. There is also a fantastic master suite with large closets and private bath. There are multiple fireplaces, baths and of course central air conditioning. The finished basement contains a media room and a gym. Numerous other details the discriminating buyer will appreciate. OFFERED AT A VERY REASONABLE $650,000.

NOW OR NEVER – This fantastic 3 bedroom Kearny Manor home. Spacious living room and dining room, fireplace, gas heat and much more. Once Spring has sprung, it may be gone. Asking only $329,000,

MUST SEE – Stately Colonial on a 50 x 100 lot in the Roosevelt School district. Lovely wood trim, 3/4 bedrooms and finished third floor, wood burning fireplace plus multi zone gas heating system. Reduced to just $359,000. TOTALLY RENOVATED – This Kearny two family features one two bedroom apartment and one three bedroom apartment. Two brand new kitchens and baths, two central air units. A finished basement with a third full bath and a driveway. $439,000, Hurry!!

COMMERCIAL

EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED.

11 GARAGES IN KEARNY – About once every 20 years something like this becomes available. Potential annual rent of $19,800. First $329,000 gets it. Cash offers only, Please.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

3 vying for top elected post in May contest nearly $200,000 from the school district will go before a judge on March 19. Gina Neri, 50, faces an Early Disposition Court hearing in Hudson County Superior Court in Jersey City. She was initially scheduled for an appearance last week but the hearing was postponed, according to a spokesman for the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office. Neri is charged with theft by deception for having allegedly taken about $190,000 in district funds in checks drawn on district accounts for personal use over a sevenyear period, beginning in 2011. It wasn’t until fall 2017 that district administrators began to suspect something was amiss after reviewing the BOE payroll accounts and alerted the HCPO which, after investigating, criminally charged Neri. Neri was initially suspended from her job which paid about $61,000 a year and subsequently resigned. The BOE hopes to recover the money through its employee insurance package which covers losses due to “crime” for up to $500,000, according to district officials. Schools Superintendent Patricia Blood said the district has taken steps through personnel moves and policy revisions to safeguard against any possible future thefts. Meanwhile, it is presumed that Neri, through her attorney, is talking with HCPO representatives about a possible plea arrangement but if those discussions fail to produce such an agreement, the HCPO could move for an indictment of Neri and then trial.

serious mishaps from last week’s snowstorm. Schools remained closed two days — last Wednesday and Thursday, March 7 and 8 — in the wake of Gov. Phil Murphy having declared a state of emergency due to the severe weather featuring high winds and soggy snow that blanketed the area. For the most part, residents appeared to have heeded warnings by law enforcement and mayors to stay off the roads as no bad accidents were reported in our region. In Kearny, Fire Chief Steven Dyl reported the KFD logged 192 calls from noon on Wednesday, March 7, to 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 8, all storm-related. “We had an outrageous number of calls about power lines down, mostly phone and cable wires,” Dyl said. Those calls came from all over town, but they seemed to be concentrated “more from the area north of Bergen [Avenue],” the chief added. “Wires were encased in snow and were hanging low due to the heavy, wet snow,” Dyl said. Repair crews from PSE&G and telecommunications companies responded as best they could to remedy those issues, he said. Dispatchers also got calls about downed trees and heavy branches which brought Kearny DPW crews out to clear away the debris. In Harrison, Mayor James Fife said the most serious storm-related incident of which he was aware involved a dangling utility pole at Kingsland Avenue and William Street, across from Harrison High School — which, he added, was steadied by a PSE&G Observer towns spared heavy repair crew. New court date blows in storm “All of our streets were for alleged BOE thief plowed down to pave Communities in The KEARNY — The Kearny Board of Education book- Observer coverage area See NEWS, Page 26 keeper accused of stealing seem to have avoided any BELLEVILLE – There’ll be a threeway race for mayor in Belleville’s non-partisan municipal election this May. The incumbent, Mayor Raymond Kimble, has filed nominating petitions as have challengers Michael Melham and Liza Lopez. Kimble, a former township manager and police chief, has served as mayor since 2006. Melham, a former one-term councilman, is a webmaster and realtor while Lopez, an attorney, was elected to the Belleville Board of Education in 2016. Kimble is teaming with at-large council candidates incumbent Kevin Kennedy and newcomer Charles Hood, the township’s IT director and a retired deputy police chief who is seeking the seat formerly occupied by Joseph Longo who was removed from office by his colleagues last September for missing many meetings while living and working in Florida. In the 2014 municipal contest, Hood ended up as an unsuccessful writein candidate after Councilman Michael Nicosia dropped out at the last minute. Running with Melham for the two at-large council seats are Board of Education member Tom Graziano, an IT professional, longtime Belleville Little League volunteer and Belleville High Hall of Famer; and Naomy DePena, a former Belleville High teacher and union leader who, with her husband, runs a martial arts and after-care program. Lopez’s council running-mate is Felipe Reyes, who works in the township finance department.

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Semiao & Associates 761 Ridge Rd. • Lyndhurst Each ofﬁce independently owned & operated.

To advertise, call 201-991-1600

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

Federal grant allows HFD to expand By Ron Leir rleir@theobserver.com HARRISON – Six new firefighters have been added to the Harrison Fire Department roster and two more are anticipated. On March 6, the municipal governing body voted to appoint the rookies and pay them with funding from the federal SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Firefighter & Emergency Response) grant program under the U.S. Depart-

ment of Homeland Security. The $1.2 million grant will pay for salaries and benefits for eight firefighters over a 3-year period, after which the town must assume the obligation of fully funding those positions. The six recruits hired last week are: Michael Archibald, Nicholas Czander, Joseph DeFuria, Andrew R. Jiritano III, Paul M. Nyatome and William Ring IV. Their appointments, recom-

mended by town Fire Director Harold Stahl and Town Attorney Paul Zarbetski following state Civil Service testing, interviews and background checks, take effect March 26. Archibald is the lone Harrison resident among the group; the others are from Hudson and Essex counties, the areas from which Harrison is obliged to search for eligible firefighter candidates under a federal consent decree, stemming from legal action

Food&Dining directory

Centanni Ristorante Italian Cuisine & Bar 11-35 River Rd., North Arlington 201-246-0100

ero’s estaurant

Tero’s Restaurant Portuguese Cuisine 222-224 Ridge Rd., Lyndhurst 201-935-8818 Nino’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Pizza & Italian Cuisine • Wine & Beer

442 Bergen St., Harrison 973-484-5770 • OriginalNinosPizza.com

Ah’ Pizz Restaurant & Full Bar Live Entertainment on Weekends

615 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. S., Harrison 973-485-9200

To advertise, call 201-991-1600

brought by the NAACP years ago in seeking more equitable representation among the ranks. In 1990, a federal court ruled that Harrison could no longer limit new uniformed and some civil employee hires to Harrison residents only. Initially, the court decreed that the town must solicit applicants from Newark and Hudson County; later, that was amended to Essex and Hudson counties. One of the six rookies hired last week — Nyatome — is African-American and is currently the lone African-American in the HFD, according to Stahl. Archibald, 35, a Harrison High School alum whose late grandfather was a Harrison firefighter and whose mother, Elizabeth, is a town nurse, has nine years of military service – four years of active duty overseas in Jordan, Korea and Kuwait as a member of the 401st Chemical Co. and five years as a member of the Army Reserves, serving as a staff sergeant. He has received training in the handling of hazardous materials. As a civilian, he worked briefly as a manager for Hertz car rental. Czander, 27, a graduate of Hudson County Hi-Tech High School, is a Bayonne resident who has served as a substitute teacher in the Bayonne school system. He received a history degree from Stockton College and worked three years as a clerk with the Hudson County Division of Family Services. DeFuria, 24, is a Nutley resident and Nutley High School graduate who is pursuing a degree in physical education from Kean University. He has done student teaching in Paramus and Lyndhurst schools and has worked as a personal fitness trainer. Jiritano, 29, a Belleville resident, has served in Emergency Management Services with the North Bergen Ambulance Squad. He took courses at the Morris County Public Safety Academy from 2010 to 2012 and was enrolled in communications courses at Monmouth University. Nyatome, 24, a Bayonne resident and a Bayonne High School alum, has a finance degree from William Paterson University and has run

a family business that provides medical transportation service. Ring, 28, of West New York, is a graduate of Bergen Catholic High School and has a degree in film production from Emerson College. He also has a firefighter legacy: His dad is a retired fire captain who served with North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue and his grandfather was a fire chief. Stahl said the recruits are scheduled to join an 8-week training class at the Morris County Fire Academy in Morristown April 21. It is hoped, Stahl added, that the two additional SAFER recruits can be identified, processed and appointed in time for them to participate in the same training group. Once their firefighter course is successfully completed, the rookies – except for Jiritano – will then get an additional eight weeks of schooling in – and certification as – Emergency Management Technicians (EMTs). Jiritano is already certified as an EMT. “We’ll bring in an instructor to teach that program,” Stahl said, instead of sending the rookies to a training facility. The town saves money by doing it that way, he said. In other business last week, the mayor and Town Council: • Introduced an ordinance to amend the waterfront redevelopment plan to permit the installation of cellular/wireless communication towers, antennas and associated facilities “on the rooftop or flush against the exterior building wall of hotel[s].” Harrison Station development residents will thereby benefit from improved cell phone service. • Authorized the placement of a wireless communications tower on a portion of a townowned property at 600 Essex St., adjacent to Rt. 280, through a lease agreement with a telecommunications firm to provide “cell phone and other service to the town and its residents.” Mayor James Fife said the town expects to net $2,000 to $2,500 a month in future rentals from this arrangement. • Approved the 180-day extension of a redevelopment agreement with J. Supor and See HIRES, Page 26

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

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

obituaries@theobserver.com Manuel Vila Manuel Vila, 79, of Harrison, died March 9, 2018, at home. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, March 13, at 10 a.m., at Holy Cross Church, Harrison. Entombment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Born in Porto do Son, Spain, Manuel settled in Harrison in 1968. He worked for the Department of Public Works in Harrison for 12 years. Prior to that, he was a construction worker with Laborers Local 472, Newark, for 18 years. He was also a member of the Spanish Club, Newark. He was the beloved husband of 49 years of Maria Fernandez Vila; father of Ana Lucas (Dennis) and Noly Scutt; brother of Juan Vila; and grandfather of D.J., Deana, Emily, Sabrina and Richie. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Harrison Education Foundation, 501 Hamilton St., Harrison, N.J. 07029 would be appreciated. Theodore (Ted) Jusinski Sr. Theodore (Ted) Jusinski Sr., 72, of Hunlock Creek, Pa., passed away Sunday, March 11, 2018, at his home after fighting a lengthy illness. Born July 25, 1945, in Newark, he was the son of the late Theodore S. and Florence (Hahn) Jusinski Trum. He proudly served his country with the U.S. Army during the early ‘60s. Ted, as he was affectionately known, lived his life in Kearny as a truck driver for Breyers Ice Cream until 1987 when he had his first stroke. He moved to Hunlock Creek in 1989 with his wife and daughter and has resided there ever since and even had the road he lived on named after him, Ted’s Lane. Ted was loved by everyone he met. He loved to fish, go to the local coffee shop and hang out with “the boys” and loved playing cards, whether online, or with his friends and family. A lover of animals, he has owned many pets over

obituaries

the years, including but not limited to, turkeys, geese, a horse, parrots and even a chimpanzee. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Sherri Jusinski of North Arlington, and his brothers-in-law, Joseph Martin of Harrison and Anthony Abridello of Florida. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 54 years, the former Geraldine Hurd; his two sons, Stanley Jusinski, of North Arlington and Theodore (Ted) Jusinski Jr. and wife, Kelli, of Levittown, Pa.; his daughter and “pride and joy,” Geraldine Vahey and her husband, Phillip who was Ted’s “best bud” Nanticoke; his two granddaughters, Tonya Vahey, who he lovingly called his “pork chop” and April Jusinski, that he was very proud of; his only grandson, Daniel (DJ) Jusinski; his sisters, Josephine Martin, of Newark and Florence Monaco and husband, Arthur, of Bel Mar; a brother-in-law, Edward Hurd, of Point Pleasant; and many nieces, nephews and cousins that he loved. The family would like to thank Celtic Home Health and Hospice for taking such great care of him the past four months. Viewing and period of visi-

The Observer

tation for family and friends will be Wednesday, March 12, from 3 to 7 p.m. at DavisDinelli Funeral Home 170 E. Broad St., Nanticoke, Pa. A funeral service will be conducted at 4 p.m. that day by the Rev. Charles C. Warwick. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to the National Stroke Assoc., 9707 E. Easter Lane, Centennial, Colo. 80112. www.stroke. org. Edward A. Garbaty Edward A. Garbaty, 87, died Sunday, March 11, 2018. Born in Jersey City, he was raised in North Arlington and lived in many university towns throughout the United States before returning back to North Arlington in 2001. He was a graduate of North Arlington High School, received his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University, his masters from Iowa State, and his Ph.D. in physics from Louisiana State University. Prior to his retirement over 20 years ago he worked for Bell Aerospace Textron. He also worked as a professor at numerous colleges , his last appointment was at Kentucky State University. He served in the United States Army from 1953-1955 and received the National Defense Service Medal. St. Jude O Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles. Near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return, I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. Saint Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. Say three Our Fathers, Hail Mary’s and Glorias. Publication must be promised. This novena has never been known to fail. I have had my request granted. R.I.

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

obituaries@theobserver.com

He took great pride as an officer in the Buffalo Area Civil Air Patrol. Edward was involved in the North Arlington Library Book Club, the local bowling league, and a daily participant at the North Arlington Senior Activity Center where he enjoyed playing cards. He loved gardening and could often be found in his yard pruning trees. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral Mass on Thursday, March 15, a 10 a.m. in St. Michael’s Church, Lyndhurst. Inter-

ment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 14, from 4-8 p.m. at the Parow Funeral Home, 185 Ridge Road, North Arlington. Edward will be deeply missed by his sister, Dr. Irene, his niece, Ilene and many other relatives and friends. He was the father of Jean, Edward Jr., Susan, Rebecca, Randall, Steven and Angela, the grandfather of many grandchildren and the brother of the late Dorothy.

Mulligan Funeral Home 331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

Licensed Funeral Director serving your needs:

Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221 Private Parking at 10 Frank Rodgers Blvd. North

973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com

Shaw-Buyus Home for Services

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Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048 Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations. Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible.

138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032

(201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com

WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916

You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home

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

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

www.theobserver.com

he Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the ne t week’s publication. No changes or refunds. Deadline for classifieds is Monday by 3 00 PM.

CLASSIFIEDS

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

E. NEWARK

KEARNY

E.NEWARK 442 John St. 2 BR, LR, Kitchen, hardwood floors, Parking space for 1 car. $1300/mth. Avl.April 1st. (862)279-4814 or (973)465-0166 43W3

KEARNY 310 Davis Ave, 2 bedrooms,LR,DR, kitchen, 2nd floor.$1,250 month.1 month security. Separate utilities. Available April 1st. No pets. No smoking. (201) 667-5985 44W3

HARRISON HARRISON 2nd Floor, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, close to path Good credit, 1.5 month security. No pets. Avail. March 1 Call 732693-1249 42W3 HARRISON 2 bedrooms, 2 walk-in closets, LR, EIK, DR, small office, close to paths and business area $ 1,400 + 1.5 month security, no pets no smoking. Please call 973-484-5852 or 973-494-4505. 42W3 HARRISON 2nd floor, 3/4 BR’s, LR, DR, EIK, Close to TRANS & PATH, $1800 + 1 1/2 month security. No Pets Avl. Now (973)517-6544 or (973)207-7796 42W3 HARRISON 1st Floor, 3 BR, Newly renovated Kitch. HW floors, H/HW included, indoor garage & driveway, backyard, Small Pets, $2200 + 1 1/2 month security, Avail. Now (732)423-8730 42W3 HARRISON Brand new house 2 Baths, 2 BR, LR, Kitch. 1 parking space . Close Trans. No Smoking. No Pets. $2000 + 1.5 month security. Avail. Now call 917-257-7383 42W3

KEARNY 1 BR, Kitchen 2 rooms 3rd floor. Everything included. Fully Furnished Available Now. $750/month. No Security. 201-997-0345 43W1

KEARNY First floor, 2 BR,LR, DR, EIK, H/W Floors, W/D hook up, access to backyard. $1600 + 1 month security. Available April 1st call (732)447-7633 44W3

KEARNY 41 Halstead St. 2nd fl. 2 BR, Kitchen, LR, Bath. $ 1,250/month + 1 month security, no smoking, no pets , Aval. April (201) 702-0126. 43W1

KEARNY / ARLINGTON Section 2nd Floor, 2 BR, LR, Kitchen, 1 Bath. w/d hook-up. $1,150/month, separate utilites. security deposit. no pets. Avl. April 1st. (201) 725-1212. 43W1

KEARNY 3 BR, LR, Kitchen, Bathroom. $1,500/ month + 1 month security. No Smoking. No pets. Avl Now (201) 279-8427 or (201) 819-7064. 42W3

LYNDHURST Large garage for rent, 400 Square feet, overhead door, high LYNDHURST 1st Floor, 2 ceilings $350 MONTH BR, 2 Baths,LR, DR, Mod- (973) 760-4877 42W3 ern EIK, W/W carpeting, 9ft ceilings, C/A, Washer/ Dryer, 1 block from NY Parking for 25ft. Trans/shopping, No Pets, trucks, SUVs or No Smoking. Off street Parking $1700+utili- Small vans, Offices ties,1 1/2 security Avail. Avail. call (201) Now (973)715-4220 or 997-1500. 43W4 (732)793-6540 42W3

LYNDHURST Second floor, 2 bedrooms, EIK, LR, no pets, no smoking, close to transportation and stores. $1,400 + 1 1/2 security, utilities not included. Aval. May 1st . KEARNY 2nd Fl., 2 fam- Please call 201-460-9579 ily house , 4 BR, 2 Bath, 43w3 Kitchen, Family room. No pets. $1,800/month 1 BR + utilities. 1 1/2 months LYNDHURST security. Avail. March $1,295/month HT/HW 1st(201) 310-5757. 42W3 included. Section 8 ok. (973) 760-4877 42W3

month. Utilities not included. 1 month security. No Pets. No smoking. Please email questions/ appointment requests to landlord2devon@gmail. com 43W3

PARKING FOR RENT

LYNDHURST

KEARNY Newly renovated, hardwood floors. Laundry onsite. HT/HW included. 2 BR start at $1250. 1 BR start at $1050. Jr. 1 BR start at $975. (201) 289-7096 41W12

KEARNY Large 1 BR, 2 Closets. 1 1/2 months security. HT included. Hardwood Floors. No pets. Avl. April 1st Call 973-9017442 44w3 KEARNY 545 Chestnut St. Studio. $950/month. HT/HW included, no pets (973) 634-8873 or (973) KEARNY 2nd fl. 3 BR’s, 465-0166. 43W3 DR, EIK, Bathroom. $1,500/month. 2 months security. no pets. no smoking. Avl. Now. (551) KEARNY 2nd floor 3 216-9750. 42W3 BR, Kitchen, LR. $1,400/

HARRISON 1st fl. w/ basement 3 BR, LR, EIK, DR, Garage & parking space included, Close to transportation, no smoking ,no pets 1 1/2 month security . Avl end of March. Call 646- 6755113. 42W3 KEARNY 1 BR apt. HT/HW included. New Kitchen & Bath Elevated building. HARRISON 2nd fl. com- Laundry facility on prempletely renovated. 1 BR, ises from $1,150/month, w/appliances, $1,250/ Call Sofia after 3pm 201month + 1 month se- 998-3516 or see super curity. No Pets. Close to after 3pm 654 Elm St. Apt Public Transportation. Basement 1. 43W3 Avl. Now. (973)992-3580 from 3pm-8pm. 44W1 HARRISON 2 BR, LR, EIK, separate utilities, 1 1/2 months security. No pets. $1,350/month. Call (973) 380-9007. 44W3

KEARNY Newly Renovated 2 BR Apts. HT/HW included. HW floors, Refrigerator. $ 1,400 + 1 month security. No Pets. Nice Neighborhood. Call Carol 973-216-9470 or Edwin Super 973517-0526. 43w3

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

ROOM FOR RENT KEARNY private house, room for rent, no kitchen, share bathroom, small living room, $800/month no smoking, no pets, call (201) 283-4948. 43w3

HARRISON 1 room for rent. $430/month, everything included TV, cable & internet. (973) 525-3860. 43W3

BELLEVILLE 16 Howard Place. off Washington Avenue. 3 rooms. 1 BR. $950/month HT/HW in- KEARNY Single, clean, cluded. (973) 801-5900 responsible person 42W3 $500/MONTH. 1 month security. No smoking. Available now. (201) 998BELLEVILLE 449 Wash- 3565 44W1 ington Ave. 2 1/2 rooms, H/W included. 2nd fl. No pets. $845 month + security. Call after 1 pm (201) 438-3672 43W1 HARRISON 1 room for rent. $450/month, everything included TV, cable & N.ARLINGTON internet. (973) 525-3860. 43W3

N.ARLINGTON 2 BR garKEARNY 1BR apartment den Apt. $1400. HT/HW $800/mth plus 1 mth se- included. Parking space. curity. All utilities includ- No pets. (201) 342- 2206. ed. Quiet Neighborhood. 42W3 Close to transportation. No Pets. Available Now N.ARLINGTON Apt. fr (973)698-5152 44W1 rent No pets. No smoking. (201) 997-6666. 42W3 KEARNY 1 BR, Roosevelt section. HT/HW supplied. $900/month. 1 1/2 months security. Avl. April 1st. 201-998-8138. 44W3

KEARNY 2nd floor 2 BR, kitchen, LR. Near W.Hudson Park. $1250/ month. Utilities not included. 1 1/2 month security. No Pets. Smoke Free Environment. Call 973-634-3927. Leave a message after 5:30 pm. 44w1

N. ARLINGTON 2nd floor, 2 BR, LR, EIK, Renovated bathroom , Laundry on premises, yard included, share dryway, no smoking, no pets, $ 1,600 + 1 month security Aval. Now. Call 201–598-9778 / 973-489-1888. 44W1

N.ARLINGTON 1st floor ,2 BR, LR, DR, EIK. $1,300/ month + Utilitites. 1.5 month security. No pets. No Smoking. Near public TRANSP Avl. Now. 973895-9552. 44W3

KEARNY room for rent, on Kearny Ave. Excellent location. $550/month everything included. Female preferred. Near Laundry. Call (201) 6407393 44W1

HALL FOR RENT

HALL FOR RENT Hall Available Family Affairs Mid week special. Call for info (201) 991-9865 or (203) 864-8243 Max 80 people. 42W9

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT LYNDHURST Small store or office on busy St. $995/ month (973) 7604877 42W3

KEARNY office space

on Kearny Ave. $1500 + 1 1/2 months security. 900 sq. ft. Proximity to PATH call (201) 889-3118. 42W3 COMMERCIAL PROPERTY FOR LEASE

KEARNY - Commercial space for lease - 2,000 sq. ft. refrigerator cooler with 1,000 sq. ft. dry and office with 3 loading docks. Call 201-997-1500 43W4

PUPPIES FOR SALE Pure breed German Shepard pups, 3 females black and tan, 2 females pure black, mom and dad on property, Will text photos Call 607-244-4801 $600/$650 black 44w3

CAR FOR SALE 2006 AUDI A4 Cabriolet “Convertible” 88,000ml black on black. $6000 call (973)393-7702 43W3

PERSONALS

Call Mary Ann

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37 year old male, looking for a good hearted Loving, Honest and mature Woman, ages 30-47 years old for a monogamous relationship toward marriage. Call me 845-7097898. 44w3

To place an ad call: 201-991-1600 classified theobserver.com LOST & FOUND

Lost in December. White gold necklace with 1 carat diamond. Reward if returned. Family heirloom. 201280-9237

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EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

CDL Driver Wanted - Adult Medical Day Care (Belleville) Part Time/Full Time Driver for adult medical daycare in Essex county needed. A CDL with Class B and Endorsement P a MUST!!! Spanish speaking a plus. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM and 5 PM. Call 973-751-6000 or Fax resume to 973-751-1190 42w3

Instructor. Will train right candidate. Must be reliable. Part time driver wanted Call (201) 2468000 42W3

Employment Looking for cdl driver class A with double/triple endorsement , minimum 1 year experience . work M-Fri start 6pm, good salary, steady job, call 201 424-6423, leave a message. 42W3

Food Distribution Operation Management position available in a Brazilian/Spanish Latino foods manufacturing/ distribution operations company near Newark, NJ. Must be proficient in English, Portuguese and/or Spanish. 5+ years of operations experience in management role is necessary. Responsibilities include strategic and tactical execution of distribution operations. Communication and leadership skills mandantory, decision-making and problem solving skills a must. Responsible to oversee standards related to quality, cost, delivery and safety of distribution and some production. Emphasis on quality, cost reduction and productivity improvement as well as development and support with outside vendors and suppliers. Compensation: 55-75K + bonus potentials Serious inquiries only. Send Resume to: Fooddistributionjob@gmail.com 42W3

Community Service Aide Part-time Temporary Community Service Aide to work with Kearny Prevention Coalition team .Performs a variety of routine field and office work involved in the Program. Must have basic office skills, bi-lingual Spanish Preferred. College Graduate in one of the social sciences preferred. Some Travel involved Monday-Friday approximately 24.5 hours per week Hours may vary Must possess a valid NJ driver’s license. $30,000 per year. Application available on line at www.kearnynj.org application deadline 3/16/18. 42W3 Drivers: Immediate Openings! Northeast .50cpm All Miles! Shorthaul .60cpm All Miles! Guaranteed Home EVERY Weekend! 1yr Class-A Call: 888-532-2904 42W4

FRONT DESK and MASSAGE THERAPIST. For Busy Doctor’s office in Ironbound. Please call Dawn at (973)334-1884 42W3

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

www.theobserver.com

The Observer Observer is is not not responsible responsible for for typographical typographical The errors. Credit Credit for for errors errors will will not not be be granted granted after after the the errors. next week’s week’s publication. publication. No No changes changes or or refunds. refunds. next Deadline for for classifieds classifieds is is Monday Monday by by 3:00 3:00 PM. PM. Deadline

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Insurance Account Representative for Commercial lines and P&C (Salary + Commission) We are a fresh new agency looking to create a dynamic team of professional insurance sales agents. Our Team is excited to hire highly motivated individuals to become part of a growing agency. Our office is rapidly growing and we are looking to train the right individual to fit right in with our team. We are looking for strong team players who are looking to build a career, are not afraid to hustle and want to grow their skills in becoming top sales closers. As an Insurance Sales Representative you’ll receive: Unlimited earning potential with commission + salary Career growth opportunities within the office, Bonsues, Top of the line training, Great team atmosphere, Tools and resources to extend on your skills and succeed Please email resumes at: nadiakhalil@allstate.com 42W3

Insurance Customer Service We are a fast paced environment that needs a team player, with the ability to multi-task. Must have minimum of 2 years experience. Must be Bilingual English/ Spanish. Portuguese a plus. email to Lorenachique@ allstate.com 44W3

$$Now Hiring$$ Sales, Property Inspectors FT/PT in your area. Free Training provided. msangelabove@comcast. net (732) 766-4425 ask for Mel. 42W6

Roofer Mechanics and Laborers needed. Must have prior experience installing shingles and Flat roofs. Call 973-7591467 42W3

Gastroenterology practice in Belleville,NJ seeks Full Time candidates to join our Billing department. Seeking a responsible medical billing and accounts receivable person. Reliable, detail oriented, and someone who multi-tasks in a fast paced professional medical office. Must also have good people skills to deal with patients, referral sources, and insurance companies on the phone and internet. Previous professional experience or educational background in healthcare with medical billing systems and other computer software is required. Understanding of ICD10 and procedure codes. Job descriptions and needs would entail but not limited to: • Working with healthcare insurance companies for payment and processing of claims. • Exceptional attention to detail for accuracy and auditing medical claims. • Posting charges. • Prioritize multiple tasks efficiently and independently in a fast-paced environment. • Troubleshooting patient issues with their account and working reports. • Competency in working within a healthcare billing and records system. • Knowledge of managed care plans and insurance carriers. Excellent pay and 401k provided. Payment commensurate to professional experience and/or education and abilities in healthcare or specifically if knowledgeable with our Practice management system, Intergy, a Greeenway Health Computer system. Please email resume to: bguerrero@essexgastro.com or fax to: 973-759-7243. 44W3

Now Hiring! warehouse workers. $9/ hr. Heavy lifting .Apply in person 260 Schuyler Ave., Kearny, NJ 43W3

Auto Body Shop Needs mechanic helper. Must speak/write English, must have valid drivers license. Call (973) 589-6274 www.colormycar.com (Ironbound) Newark. 44W3

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EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

PAINTING & DECORATING

Bread baker needed for Nutley bakery with Experience , position avl. immediately. Call Salvador (973) 667-7400 Se necesita Panadero con experencia para trabajar en Nutley Bakery llamar a Salvador (973) 667-7400 42W3

Part Time Night Crew (Over Night) Grocery Clerk. Experience necessary in a high volume atmosphere. Kearny Shop Rite 100 Passaic Ave, Kearny, NJ Please apply in person. 36W12

Book Exterior houses, save slot $795.00, rooms start $100, Don’s cell: 862-7541789 leave a message

CLEANING SERVICES

Computer Experience, order entry and take order over the phone. Customer Service Experience in Outlook & Excel F/T MON-FRI $10/hr Please apply in person 260 Schuyler Ave., Kearny, NJ. 43W3

Fatima Cleaning Services Apartments, Houses, Office. References Availble. -Efficient Reliable - Affordable. Free Estimates (201) 428-7147 41W6

Driver needed ,class A, minimum 1 year experience ,double triple, work from 6pm to 4 am, steady job, great salary. Call 201 424 6423, After 6pm 43W3

Couple from Poland will clean houses, apartments, offices. References. (201) 997-4932 Leave message. 43W6

Office Help/Customer Service for Busy Tank Wash Facility General Office Work: Mon.-Thurs. 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM - Filing, faxing, scanning, data entry. QuickBooks/ Microsoft Word/Excel a +. Customer Service: Sunday (required) 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM - Waiting on customers. Register experience a +. Car necessary. $12.00 hr. to start. Fax resume to 973-589-1120. 42W3

Midtown Pharmacy seeks part time delivery driver. Must have clean license, background check. Car is provided, will include nights and partial weekends. NO phone calls! Apply in person at Midtown Pharmacy 581 Kearny Ave. 44W1

DRIVER/WAREHOUSE Reliable, responsible person needed for dynamically growing manufacturing company. Duties include deliveries involving the tri-state area, receiving, shipping and stock room. CDL Class B preferred. Excellent benefits, paid vacation and holidays, and 401K with company match. Qualified individuals should apply at 147 N. Michigan Ave., Kenilworth, NJ. Must have copy of driving abstract to be considered. 43W4

Bee’s Cleaning Services Responsible, reliable and trusted independent contractor. Pre/After, Regular weekly & monthly home cleaning, Builders/New home construction, renovated apartments, open house cleaning, home closings, tenant vacated apartment, move-in. Call 201-682-8250 for FREE Estimate 43W3

HEATING & COOLING Courageous Plumbing HVAC LLC LIC .#11103 • Air Conditioning • Hot Air Furnaces • Central Air, Humidifier, UV Light, Duct Cleaning,Visa & Master Card, Finances offer with up to 24 payments, no interest (201) 206-4845

PAINTING & DECORATING Kevin’s Home Improvements Professional Painting , Sheetrock, plastering, wallpapering, Kitchens and Bath. Tile work, Very neat and clean. We give affordable prices. Don’t miss out. senior Discount. Fully insured (201) 565-6393. 43W6 Andreas Painting Professional HousePainter 165. Interior & Exterior Printing - Plastering - Taping Free Estimates (201) 997-0706 Speak slow in answering machine please 41W6

44W1

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES • Concrete • Brick work • Steps • Stone Walls • Drywall • Tiles • Painting • Sheetrock • Drywall • Plastering ALL types of Masonry Free Estimates (973) 943-2254 44W6 Danny Construction All types of Masonry Work • Steps • Sidewalks • Ret. Walls • Chimney Build & Repair • Paver Patios • Brick Design • Plastering And all Types of Repairs 973 -902-6052 Free Estimates Belleville, NJ 44W6 SERVICES OFFERED Father & Sons Clean outs, Handyman, Estate, Delivery, Clean-ups, Odd Jobs. You call we haul. Free Estimates. Call 201-443- 9164/201653-4693 44W3 Experienced Aide Looking to care in your home Part time Call 862-215-4516 or 973-751-6158 References Avail. 42W3 Certified aide seeks position to take care of the elderly. 5-7 days, Nights also. Live in/out. Excellent references. (201) 407-1903. 44W1

HANDYMAN SERVICES HANDYMAN Do all types of home repair at reasonable cost. Free Estimate AUGIE (973) 614-4679 43W3 DO IT ALL Interior/Exterior new & repairs. All types of carpentry. Reasonable rates, quality work, reliable, experienced. 13VH06620900 (201) 991-3223. 43W4

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HOME IMPROVEMENT FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC. BASEMENT RENOVATIONS NO MORE WASTED SPACE. Baths, Kitchens, Deck, Painting. All types of Home Improvement. Quality work Fair prices Fully insured. Lic# 13vh03006100 (201) 906-2422 41W6

Malone Construction Doors Windows Kitchen Bath Trim TIle Flooring & More Lic#13VH08309900

201-400-0341 42W9 G & R Builders Roofing, Siding, Windows/Doors, Decks, Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Carpentry. Lic. #13VH02536200 Free Estimates 20% Senior Citizen Discounts (201) 893-0656. 44W6 RUBBISH REMOVAL Andriello Cleanouts Spring Removal, Yards, Garages, Basements, Attics, Real Estate, Rubbish Removal/Demolition. Lic13VH04443200 (201) 726-0287. 42W4 RB Junk Removal Family owned and operated Same day service & FREE Estimates Will clean your yards, basements, garage, Apartments, Senior Discounts Specializing in Residential & Commercial (201)355-9074 or (973)510-5031 38W9

RUBBISH REMOVAL FREE, I pick up all kind of metals, including boilers !!! Satisfaction guarantee. Call me 973-388-6871 42W4 A1 Affordable Rubbish Removal Attics, Basements, Yard Cleaning. We Haul or You Can Rent 10-15 Cubic Yard Containers. We Accept Visa/ MasterCard (201) 998-1262. 41W6

ESTATE/MOVING SALE Estate/Moving Sale everything must go! Fri.-Sun. 3/16-18 9AM-4PM 117 Prospect Ave. No. Arlington lots of $1 items, clothes, jewelry & accessories, furniture, tools, knickknacks, lots of kitchen stuff, bargains galore! no early birds please 44W1

MOVING & DELIVERY JR Trucking Moving and Delivery Service Inc. We can Save Time & Money Commercial & Residential Free Estimate. Ask for Will (973) 477-1848.43W12

PEST CONTROL

PLUMBING & HEATING JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating Kitchen and bath remodel2ing. Carpentry. Hot Water Heaters. Fully Ins. Lic# 165

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

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Continued from Page 1 the total number of deaths over the eons, but we have read one estimate that, in just the 19th and 20th centuries, more than 1 billion of those people who were infected met their demise. Amazingly, though, in 1943 (a mere 14 years after the Belleville hospital opened), the cure that had evereluded mankind was discovered. By a 23-yearold post-graduate student working in a basement lab at Rutgers University in New Brunswick. The young genius was Albert Schatz, who reportedly grew up on a farm (!) in Passaic (!) and graduated from Passaic High School in 1938. At Rutgers, he had worked tirelessly and passionately and, for all intents and purposes, by himself on his quest, finally bringing to light an antibiotic — streptomycin — that destroyed the tuberculosis germ. It was

virtually a miracle. But Schatz was denied the fame, the worldwide adulation — and even the basic discovery credit — he deserved. Instead, all of that — and a Nobel Prize — went to his professor, Dr. Selman A. Waksman, the university’s leading microbiologist. Although Schatz fought for his rightful recognition in the world’s scientific community, it was basically for naught. Waksman got all the glory — for decades. But at least there was one asterisk attached. According to Wikipedia, citing a 2002 report in Britain’s The Guardian newspaper, after it was announced that Waksman would be awarded 1952’s Nobel Prize for medicine for the “discovery” of streptomycin, the Nobel committee began receiving letters from Schatz’ supporters arguing his case. In the end, “the Nobel committee’s wording of the actual award … was for ‘ingenious, systematic

Photo courtesy of Michael Perrone

Albert Schatz’s yearbook photos with activities listed.

and successful studies of the soil microbes that led to the discovery of streptomycin’ rather than, ‘for the discovery of streptomycin’ as the original announcement had said.” “Led to” was some small concession. But no Nobel for Schatz. According to The Guardian story cited above, “In his acceptance speech, Waksman did not once mention Schatz, using the royal ‘we’ instead. Nor is there any reference to Schatz in Waksman’s 1958 memoir, ‘My Life With The Microbes’ — he is named only as ‘the graduate student.’” The paper also quoted a Rutgers professor emeritus, Karl Maramorosch: “It was

a grave injustice. The Nobel has made a few mistakes, but this was one of the worst.” Schatz died in 2005 at age 84, but his incredible contribution to medical science — and to all mankind — is finally beginning to be recognized. In 1994, the 50th anniversary of the discovery of streptomycin, he was given the Rutgers University Medal, the school’s highest honor, though it didn’t back off from the sainted Waksman. In ‘94, Michael Perrone (now president of the Belleville Historical Society) and Kevin Kennedy (now a Belleville councilman) were aides in the office of then-Assemblyman John

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Kelly, who asked them to help prepare a resolution on behalf of the State Legislature honoring Schatz. “It’s something we never forgot,” Perrone told The Observer. “This was one of the greatest discoveries in history, and few people knew the story.” Recently, the Belleville Town Council passed its own resolution in recognition of the upcoming 75th anniversary of Schatz’ accomplishment and encouraging “our state and national leaders … to recognize the monumental work and discovery of Dr. Albert Schatz and the work of Dr. Selman Waksman.” Note who gets the “discovery” credit. Perrone’s hope is that Schatz’ monumental accomplishment will serve as an inspiration to the young. “Here,” Perrone said, “was a kid, five years out of high school, and he made this unbelievable discovery. It should be an inspiration for students everywhere. You CAN change the world!”

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bystander shows the easilyidentifiable red chopper as it slowly sputtered toward the 40-degree waters of the East River. The impact, at regular speed, did not appear to be overly harsh. However, once it finally did hit the water, it

turned upside down, reports said, and was towed for nearly two miles by a 4 MPH current in 50-foot depths, until rescuers could get to those on board. The five yet-to-be-identified passengers were reportedly

harnessed tightly for their safety, and were unable to free themselves — but the pilot was able to do so, New York City Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro said. “They (victims) had to be cut out,” Nigro said.

Two victims were declared dead at the scene and three had initially been removed and brought to area hospitals, Nigro said. The one survivor of the flight — the pilot — was identified by ABC News as Richard Vance, of Danbury, Conn, who is “OK,” according to Nigro. O’Neill, meanwhile, said response to the tragedy was quick. “Harbor units from the NYPD and the fire department immediately responded,” O’Neill said. “Aviation responded, too, and the Coast Guard. A private tugboat also assisted in the response. A search-andrescue operation immediately began … I’d like to thank the crew from the tugboat — they were the first on the scene. Our air-and-sea rescue responded within five minutes, and then, FDNY marine units were there as well as our harbor.” Because of the southbound 4 MPH current in the East River, O’Neill said: “It was a tough operation.”

head wrestling coach) Tony Carratura,” Smart said. “He wants hard-nosed, hard-working kids with the right work ethic. That’s what we want.” Chris Serrano keys the Kearny pitching staff. Harrison head coach Jairo Mendez said that his practices have been “interesting.” “We’re trying to simulate life like outdoors,” Mendez said. “We had our pitchers throwing live to our hitters in the cage.

We alternated it like it was a scrimmage. We’ve gone over some defensive stuff as well as taken batting practice.” The Blue Tide also lost a scrimmage game to Butler because of the snow. “We just have to make sure that everyone stays together,” Mendez said. “If we do, we should have a nice little squad.” Dustin Huseinovic, fresh off signing a letter to play football at Pace University, returns for

his final varsity baseball season. “The majority of teams are doing the same thing that we are,” Mendez said. “It all depends on how hungry we are.” Marcantuono said that he was energized to get the season started. “The kids are excited,” said Marcantuono, who welcomes back pitchers Eric McKenna and Brandon Barth. “It should be an eventful season.” Still, the weather is always a

factor in the spring. “It’s unpredictable because of the weather,” Marcantuono said. “Even when we start playing, I always say that it’s about 6-to-8 degrees colder because of the wind down by the river. I’ve been in this game for a long time that you just have to get used to it. You really can’t complain.” Sure you can. Weather reports called for more accumulating snow on Tuesday.

Harrison Avenue which we dumped in the back of the Rover junkyard on railroad property which we lease,” Fife said. He said the town’s DPW worked until 11 p.m. on Wednesday, then resumed work at 7 a.m. the next day. All of the

department’s heavy equipment worked well, he said. And in East Newark, Mayor Joseph Smith said the borough got through the snowfall with no issues. “Our police chief (Anthony Monteiro) plows our streets,” he said. The borough acquired a new payloader last

year and it held up well during the storm, he added. The snowstorm forced the cancellation of the Nutley High School production of “Pippin” Wednesday night but the school added a performance last Sunday evening to make up for the missed show. Another

storm casualty was Wednesday night’s meeting of the township Planning Board which was scratched, as was recycling and garbage pickups, along with the Board of Education’s kindergarten registration. Power lines were reported down throughout the township.

associated entities for certain properties in the waterfront redevelopment area pending completion of the retiring of

the Hudson County Improvement Authority bonds on the Harrison Parking Center and the town’s refinancing of

the outstanding debt on the garage bonds. Supor plans to build an additional garage with 1,800 spaces north of

Guyon Drive as part of a new mixed-use development project. The redevelopment pact dates from October 2017.

CHOPPER

Continued from Page 1 eral “blocks” away from the Hudson County Correctional Facility. In addition to tours of the Manhattan and New Jersey skylines, the company also says it offers charter services, including for photo shoots, which, according to New York City Police Commissioner James O’Neill, was the reason why the doomed chopper had gone into the air in the first place. The Federal Aviation Administration issued two Tweets about the flight. “A Eurocopter AS350 went down in the East River near Roosevelt Island in #NYC at 7 p.m. today,” the NTSB said. “The helicopter reportedly is inverted in the water. Local authorities will confirm the number of people on board, their names and conditions. The #FAA is investigating. “The @NTSB will determine probable cause of the accident.” A video taken by a

FIELD

Continued from Page 15 Kearny had two scrimmages canceled because of the snow. “We’re hopeful to get back out there again soon,” Smart said. “The key to our team is pitching.” Smart said that he pinched ideas from other Kearny coaches to get ready for this season. “I took a page from (Kearny

NEWS

Continued from Page 19 ment, we cleaned up parking lots and streets by schools and we picked up snow along Frank Rodgers Boulevard and

HIRES

Continued from Page 20

Wikipedia

This undated photo is of the actual helicopter that went down Sunday night into the East River, killing five of six on board. The chopper took off from Kearny just minutes before it went down.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

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129

NEW 2018 CHEVY

Lease per mo x 24 mos*

Gray, I4, 4-Cyl, FRWD, Auto, TC, P/S/ABS, A/C w/Clim Cntrl, Dual/Side Curtain Impact Air Bags, P/Winds/ Lcks/Mrrs, Cruise, T/Gls, Keyless Entry, Satellite, Nav, On-Star, Rr Camera, Bluetooth, Stk#181084, VIN#JF190650, MSRP: $26,000. Based on 24 Month Closed End Lease. $3,274 due at delivery includes $2,495 down payment, 1st Payment, & $650 bank fee. 10,000 mi/yr excess mi @ $.25 thereafter. Total payments: $3,096. Residual Value: $16,380. Includes Lease Conquest if qualified.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BUY NEW TO

GET A GREAT CAR! 2017 CHEVROLET

CRUZE

2011 CHEVROLET

EQUINOX 2LT

24 37 MPG

2-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

HWY

EQUINOX LT

149

NEW 2018 CHEVY

Lease per mo x 39 mos*

Cajun Red Tintcoat, SUV, 4-Cyl, FRWD, Auto w/OD, TC, P/S/ABS, Dual Side Impact Air Bags, P/Winds/Lcks/Mrrs, Telescopic, Cruise, Sec Sys, AM/FM, Rr Camera, OnStar, Nav, Stk#18-1246, VIN#JS560066, MSRP: $28,140. Based on 39 Mo Closed End Lease. $3,144 due at delivery includes $2,995 down payment, 1st payment. No up front bank fee. 10,000 mi/yr excess mi @ $.25 thereafter. Total payments: $5,811. Residual value: $16,040. Includes Lease Conquest if qualified.

22 MPG HWY

2-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE

TRAVERSE LS

249

NEW 2018 CHEVY

Lease per mo x 39 mos*

White, SUV, 3.6L, FRWD, Auto w/OD, TC, Frt/Rr AC w/Clim Cntrl, Tilt, Cruise, Alloy Whls, T/Gls, Sec Sys, Keyless Entry, AM/FM, 8-Passanger, OnStar, Nav, Rr Camera, Stk#18-1067X, VIN#JJ109668, MSRP: $32,995. Based on 39 Mo Closed End Lease. $3,244 due at delivery includes $2,995 down payment, 1st payment. No up front bank fee. 10,000 mi/yr excess mi @ $.25 thereafter. Total payments: $9,711. Residual Value: $18,578. Includes Lease Loyalty if qualified.

HUGE SELECTION OF BELLAVIA CERTIFIED & PRE-OWNED VEHICLES 2017 CHEVROLET

MALIBU

2016 GMC

TERRAIN SLE-2

2017 CHEVROLET

TRAVERSE PREMIER COLORADO LT DIESEL

GM Executive Demo

15,488 $11,995 $16,995 $19,995 $33,996 $35,998

Stk#16117, VIN#B7126446, 1.4L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, CD/MP3, AC, Daul Air Bags, P/S/ABS, P/Winds/Lcks, Sec Sys, 7” Color Touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, USB, R/Camera, T/Gls, 11,541.

Stk#16159, VIN#B6384946, 2.4L, 4-Cyl, AWD, Auto, CD/USB/Satellite, Nav, Cruise, Htd Sts/Mrrs, Keyless Entry, R/Camera, Remote Start, Sec Sys, TC, 70,096mi.

Silver, Stk#16064, VIN#HF184657, 1.5L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, 7” Color Touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, AC, PS/ABS, P/Htd Mrrs, R/Camera, Sec Sys, TC, 15,253mi.

199 Rt.17 South, E.Rutherford, NJ 201.939.6800

BELLAVIACHEVYBUICK.com

Blue, Stk#16067, VIN#G6200185, 2.4L, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, TC, AC, Satellite/MP3/USB, Pioneer Premium Sound, R/Camera, Rf Rails, Sec Sys,7” Color Touchscreen, 22,050mi.

White, Stk#15733, VIN#HJ145431, 3.6L, 6-Cyl, Auto, AWD, 6.5’ Touch Display, AM/FM, Satellite, Bluetooth, R/Camera, Cruise, P/S/ABS, 12,986mi.

Black, Stk#16703, VIN#H1187093, Crew Cab, 2.8L, 4-Cyl, Auto, Turbo Diesel, 4WD, 8” Color Touchscreen, /USB, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, AC, P/S/ABS, R/ Camera, TC, 10,774mi.

Financing thru GM Financial. Not all buyers will qualify. See dlr for details. Free Maintenance includes 2 oil changes within the first 24,000 miles. *Actual mileage will vary. Lessee resp for excess wear, tear, & mileage charges as stated. All price(s) incl(s) all costs to be paid by consumer, except for tax, title, lic costs, reg fees, dlr fees & optional equipment extra. Other restrictions may apply. Pics are illustrative only. Offers end 4/2/18. ©2018 BOCPartners.com

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018

Trust Our Top #1 Agents & Broker in the Area! Call us Today for a Free Market Analysis of Your Home! FEATURED AGENT

Helen Rzegocki 908.451.6023

NJMLS RESIDENTIAL SALES STATS 01/01/17 TO 12/31/17 BROKER

# 2017 CLOSED TRANSACTIONS*

FEATURED AGENT

239 224 124 84 67 36 35 35 27 26 25 16 15

Daniela Cifelli 973.901.4496

BHGRE COCCIA REALTY C.21 SEMIAO & ASSOC. ERA JUSTIN NENO-ROSA AGENCY MID-REALTY, INC. SAVINO AGENCY EXIT GOLDEN REALTY ELITE REALTY GROUP ARLINGTON REAL ESTATE THE BIXLER GROUP RE/MAX WHITE HOUSE HARRISON REALTY STAR REAL ESTATE

AVAILABLE HOMES UNDER CONTRACT

REDUCED!

Belleville

$279,900

Lovely well kept Colonial home w/ 2 detached garage & driveway featuring spacious living rm, dining rm, modern kitchen, 3 bedrms, full bath, sun rm & rear deck. Partially fin basement w/ recreation rm, laundry/utility rm. backyard with shed & concrete patio for entertainment.

Lyndhurst

$650,000

2 family 50 x 124 lot w/ 2 pavor stone driveways. Home features formal living & dining rm, eat in kitchen, fam rm, master bedrm w/master bath, 2 more bedrooms & full bath & Basement accessibility w/rec area, dry bar, summer kitchen area, laundry, utility rm, full bath & large ground level fam rm w/solarium. Other unit offers living rm, eat in kitchen, 2 bedrms & full bath. All separate utilities!

Kearny

UNDER CONTRACT

Kearny

$375,000

1 family ranch facing East located on a dead end street in a desirable Arlington Section neighborhood. 1 car attached garage, 52 x 170’ lot! 3 bedrooms. Full finished basement with recreation room, wet bar & full bath & exit to yard.

EXCLUSIVE LISTING!

$364,900

1 fam in manor section, 8 rms, 3 bedrms, walk up attic, king size master bedroom w/alcove. Gas fireplace, Huge deck off kitchen. 1 block to NYC Bus & park!

Lyndhurst

$425,000

Charming 3 bedroom, 2 full bath Colonial. Great option to create 5 bedrooms! Central air, hardwood flooring, family room or suite, partially finished basement w/ potential 3rd bath, deck, driveway and one car detached garage.

Kearny

$339,000

10 room, 4 bedrm colonial on 75 x 100 lot w/2 car garage in Arlington Section! 1 full and 2 half baths. Steps to NYC bus.

CALL US TODAY! Kearny

Lyndhurst

636 Kearny Ave.

424 Valleybrook Ave.

201-997-7000

201-939-8900

Rutherford

Secaucus

11 Park Ave.

5 Harmon Cove Tower

201-939-0001

201-867-2100

© 2016 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. Franchise is independently Owned and Operated. Statistics based on information derived from NJMLS for all sales transactions made from 1/1/16 to 12/31/2016, deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Interested in a career in real estate? Email: Colette@mycoccia.com or call 973-476-8051