Dec. 12, 2018 Edition of The Observer by The Observer Newspaper

December 12, 2018 • www.theobserver.com • Vol. CXXXI, No. 31

HIGHLIGHTS Kearny’s Nystrom cited for dedication to 9/11 Museum

See Page 7

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

CHRISTMAS TREES FOR VETERANS By Ron Leir Special to The Observer

Photo illustration by Michelle Rybeck

Two Lincoln Middle School students prepare a tree that will be given to an infirmed area veteran.

stockings filled with toiletries. Still, the students’ attention to detail wasn’t all The multipurpose room at Kearny’s Lin- altruistic — since they were competing to be among the coln Middle School top three winners of the turned into Santa’s workshop last week as school�s annual Christmas about 100 seventh- and Tree Decorating Contest — a volunteer project eighth-graders made conceived by eighth-grade like elves, going about teacher Kathie Williams. the business of assem“This is our 10th year,” bling holiday gifts for Williams said. “We actudisabled veterans. ally started it at Franklin Those vets will be School, where I was asgetting 3-foot-high evergreens festooned signed at the time, and did it six years there. When I with a variety of acmoved to Lincoln, we concessories — everything tinued the program.” from traditional garlands It all came about “with my and bells to individualized features like photos and See TREES, Page 22 unusual designs — plus

Man who hit 9-year-old boy with car surrenders to KPD By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

Avenue, Kearny, has been identified as David D. Simoes, 38, of Newark. Kearny police Capt. Timothy Wagner says Simoes was charged Dec. 3, with the fourth-degree crime of being involved in an accident resulting in serious bodily injury while driving with a suspended license (N.J.S.A.

The man who turned himself in to the Kearny Police Department last week as the driver responsible for a Nov. 30 hit-and-run involving a Franklin School student on Bergen

2C:40-22b) and the traffic charge of driving with a suspended license (N.J.S.A. 39:3-40e). Simoes was released on summonses after he was booked — without bail — pending a Central Judicial Processing court appearance Dec. 17 at the Hudson County Courthouse in Jersey

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

Harrison man dies in chase with cops in Glen Ridge

A 25-year-old Harrison man was one of two killed in a Glen Ridge car crash following a police chase that started in Montclair, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office reports. Galo Flores, a Harrison resident, and Carlos Nieves, 20, of Newark, were both pronounced dead at 10:17 p.m., Monday, Nov. 26, after they reportedly hit a

light pole, then a tree, on Bloomfield Avenue near High Street in Glen Ridge. The ECPO says the car they were driving exploded after hitting the tree. The crash was the result of a high-speed chase that reportedly started at around 10 p.m. in Montclair and that made its way into Glen Ridge. The ECPO says Montclair police attempted to stop the

2008 Mercedes the two men were in — but they sped away, refusing to pull over. Police say they followed the car with lights and sirens activated. The ECPO’s Professional Standards Bureau handles all police chases that result in serious injury or death. This case is still under investigation. — Kevin Canessa

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Law-enforcement agencies participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2018 Year End Holiday Crackdown offer the following advice for the holiday season: • Take mass transit, a taxicab, ride-sharing or ask a sober friend to drive you home. • Spend the night where the activity or party takes place. • If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement by phoning 911. Your actions may save someone’s life and inaction could cost a life. • Always buckle up, every ride. It’s your best defense against an impaired driver. •If you are intoxicated and traveling by foot, the safest way to get home is to take a cab or have a sober friend or family member drive or escort you to your doorstep. • Be responsible. If someone you know is drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel.

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Police in Belleville, Harrison, Lyndhurst and Kearny — and elsewhere — will crack down on drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs as part of the annual end of year “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” statewide campaign. Now through Jan. 1, 2019, local and state law enforcement will conduct saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints looking for motorists who may be driving while intoxicated. The national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” effort seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving through a combination of highvisibility enforcement and public education. Last year, 20% of all motor-vehicle deaths in New Jersey were alcohol-related. Nationally, more than 10,000 people die each year in drunken-driving crashes. The societal cost associated with the crashes is estimated to be $37 billion annually.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

Teachers appear to have settled contract dispute By Ron Leir Special to The Observer

SETTLEMENT HAS BEEN REACHED between Kearny public school teachers and the Kearny Board of Education, The Observer has learned. Representatives for both sides have signed a Memorandum of Agreement on terms for a new labor contract, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. Terms of the agreement weren’t readily available; however, once source says the agreement would, if ratified, expire June 30, 2019. The next step, sources said, will be for the Kearny Education Association (KEA), the bargaining agent for the teachers, to schedule a membership meeting where the union’s officers will outline the terms to the members in preparation for a ratification vote. If the majority of the membership approves those terms, then the Board of Education will be expected to follow suit and schedule its own vote on the proposed contract, mostly likely at its next regular meeting on Dec. 17, unless a special meeting is scheduled, sources said. Bargaining agents for both sides

Honored for his Prep spirit

IN KEARNY SCHOOLS reportedly came to an agreement on basic terms for a new pact following a marathon negotiating session that began Wednesday evening, Dec. 5, and continued though early Thursday morning, Dec. 6, with the aid of a state mediator assigned to the parties, according to sources. KEA members, including teachers, guidance counselors, school nurses, child study team members and coaches, have been working without a labor agreement since the expiration of their last contract on June 30, 2017. Bargaining has not gone smoothly. During the past several months, union members carrying signs calling attention to their dedication to their jobs have packed BOE meetings in silent protest of no new contract and have staged periodic pickets at BOE headquarters. KEA President Marcy Fisher was quoted in a published report in September as identifying the big issues in negotiations as time, money and benefits.

Photo courtesy of Trish Fitzpatrick

Spirit Awards are the highest non-academic honor a student at St. Peter’s Prep can receive, and were presented to students following a Thanksgiving ecumenical prayer service, continuing a 37-year Prep tradition of recognizing the unsung heroes of the school community. The first Prep Spirit Awards were presented in November 1981 when the-late Rev. John E. Browning, S.J., ’46, then principal at the Prep, began the tradition. Nutley senior Timothy Georgetti was recognized for his dedication to Prep, active faith life and superior academic performance. A full academic scholar, he challenges himself with a difficult course load; in particular, he is a linguist, studying Latin and Spanish, and undertaking self-study in Arabic. He is the son of Rita and Kevin Georgetti, and is a graduate of John H. Walker School in Nutley. With Georgetti (holding award) are, from left, Principal James DeAngelo, Dean of Student Life Anthony Locricchio and the Rev. Kenneth Boller, S.J., Prep’s outgoing president.

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Clara Maass Medical Center: Among the best in the US, again. Nationally recognized for patient safety and quality for the 11th time. Continuing a tradition of delivering health care excellence, Clara Maass Medical Center earned an A grade for patient safety and quality from The Leapfrog Group for Fall 2018. This marks the 11th time overall that we have achieved the highest national standard for the quality and safety of the care we provide, and we are grateful to the patients and families who choose Clara Maass Medical Center for their health care. We remain committed to putting our patients first. Congratulations to the Medical Staff, employees and volunteers at Clara Maass Medical Center on this remarkable achievement.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

KPD: Was he going to eat it all himself? By Karen Zautyk kzautyk@theobserver.com

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reported catching Luna concealing 10 one-pound package of cooked salami in his pants before attempting to leave the store without paying the $68.90 cost. Yes, 10 pounds in his pants. “A carnivorous braggadocio, Luna told the guard that on the previous Monday, he had gotten away with five pounds of stolen salami ($34.45 loss),” said a KPD spokesman with an extensive vocabulary. Luna was charged with shoplifting and sent to the Hudson County Jail. He was reportedly also found to have six warrants: East Orange ($1,000 bail), Bloomfield (four warrants for $358, $250, $127 and $125) and Elizabeth ($250). *** Other recent reports from the Kearny police blotter included the following: Nov. 29 Officers Nicole Williams and Andre Fernandes responded to Walmart on an 11:26 p.m. report of a shoplifting in progress. There, a loss-prevention officer escorted them to the men’s room where he alleged that Keith Thomas, 49, of Newark, was currently inside a stall concealing merchandise under his clothes. The guard said that he had earlier watched the suspect hide electronics, a jacket and a package of underwear inside a Walmart shopping bag and take it into the men’s room. Thomas was arrested and the merchandise was recovered, police said, along with a small plastic bag containing suspected cocaine residue. He was sent to the county jail on a warrant charging shoplifting and possession of drug paraphernalia. Police said he was also found to be wanted by Newark ($350 bail for a stop-sign ticket) and Tinton Falls ($301, receiving stolen property). *** At 12:35 p.m., Officer Angelo Palagano and Det. Mike Andrews responded to the 200 block of Beech Street on a call from a concerned citizen reporting that a man in the area was unsteady on his feet and appeared to be intoxicated.

Police said they found Theodore C. Hadam, 50, of Kearny, sitting with a friend against a house whose resident did not want him there. “Hadam had a small cut on his forehead of unknown etiology,” said the same spokesman with the extensive vocabulary. Police said the officers tried to speak with Hadam, who told them, “Get the f--- away from me. I don’t have to talk to you cops,” refused to leave with his friend, refused EMS treatment and remained verbally abusive to all in his dominion. He was subsequently arrested for defiant trespass and disorderly conduct, was released with a summons and was driven home by a KPD officer. [We do not know if Hadam deigned to talk to that considerate cop.] Dec. 2 Officers Chris Montes and Derek Hemphill and Sgt. Jay Ward were called to Walmart at 1:26 a.m. on a report of several shoplifters at the store. The officers rounded up five Newark residents — three adult women and two juvenile girls — whom security had reportedly witnessed altering price tags in an attempt to pay less than the full retail value for merchandise and concealing other merchandise in bags and trying to leave without paying at all. The full loss was calculated at $200. Nina Hernandez, 24; Yvette Perez, 39; Barbara Gonzalez, 21, and the juveniles — aged 15 and 16 — were all charged with shoplifting. Perez was also charged with using a minor in the commission of a crime; Hernandez, with possession of pot. The women were released on summonses; the teens were released to guardians. Dec. 4 At 2:56 a.m., Officer Ryan Stickno was patrolling in the area of Rose Street and Kearny Avenue when he saw an idling Honda Accord with darkly tinted windows. Police said the driver and passenger were both passed out and it took several minutes for the officer to awaken them.

See KPD, Page 10

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

BPL

A rendering of a mural that will be in the renovated Children’s Room at the Belleville Public Library

Belleville Library’s Children’s Room getting makeover It is “the busiest department” with as many as 10,000 youngsters frequenting it annually. But the children’s room itself at the Belleville Public Library has, more or less, stayed the same since the ‘70s, so library director Michelle Malone and the library board are planning a makeover for the space. To that end, they’ve engaged Janice Davis Design LLC of Brooklyn to come up with a new look for the entrance to and interior of the first-floor room. Bids for what the library has described as “specialty children’s décor fabricator” were received Nov. 28 and the library board was expected to award a contract Dec. 12. Malone said the improvements will include the painting of a mural to adorn the hallway leading to the children’s room that will feature images of the world “to highlight inclusivity and, in particular, Belleville’s immigrant population,” and a giant book along with the message “Turn a Page and Start a Journey.” Inside the children’s room, Malone said, plans call for reconfiguring shelving “to create a nook for a special reading place, as a more inviting space for little ones and mothers.” Walls will get a new coat of paint. “We want to punch up the colors,” Malone said, “decorated with images of little trains and cars, focusing on the idea of children going to different worlds.” New carpeting is coming, too. Funding for the project will come from the board’s operating budget, she said. No cost estimate was given

for the work. This will be the first capital project since the board in 2014 authorized spending more than $600,000 for a secondfloor makeover after having previously installed skylights and a ramp for disabled access. The township facility is one of the original Carnegie libraries, dating from 1909. Next on the agenda, according to Malone, is an upgrade in the library’s technology infrastructure. “We’re hoping to tap into a $1 million statewide library grant program,” she said, to acquire stationary desktop computer terminals for library patrons to use. “We had laptops,” Malone said, “but we’ve found they don’t last as long as desktop computers. They’ve taken quite a beating — we’re down from 30 to just 17 working laptops.” The computers have been popular with library patrons and visitors, she said. Cardholders get to use a terminal for up to two hours while guests can sign up to use one for 45 minutes at a sitting. Meanwhile, Malone said, the library’s consulting architects/engineers Acari + Iovino Architects of Little Ferry are working on a new five-year strategic plan that the director hopes will focus on new windows and leveling a cement space on the Academy Street side of the building. In other recent developments, Malone said the library has launched a new website – bellepl. org – which visitors should find “easier to navigate” and which “incorporates databases” that can be searched for books and other resources. — Ron Leir

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 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 4 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.

Tunnero gives up seat, but he still tried to hoodwink voters

S 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 Karen Zautyk Freelance Journalist Jim Hague Sportswriter Michelle Rybeck Graphic Designer Kim Pezzolla Sales Display & Real Estate Ad Deadlines Thursday by noon advertising@theobserver.com Obituaries Deadline Monday by 10 a.m.

EVERAL WEEKS AGO, this newspaper was among the first to report the arrest of Lyndhurst Board of Education Trustee-elect Vincent Tunnero on charges he reportedly bilked several Seaside Heights residents of more than $100,000 in cash for unfinished home repairs he agreed to make. Unfortunately for the voters, Tunnero was arrested in late October, just a week-plus before the November election. Also unfortunate for Lyndhurst voters, Tunnero never said a word about his arrest before voters took to the polls, and based on his now-defunct social-media postings before the election, he carried on as though he didn’t have a care in the world, having posted photos and videos on Facebook about how transparent he would be when elected. However, Tunnero announced about a week and a half ago that he would not accept the seat — the right move — when the Lyndhurst Board of Education reorganizes, but it couldn’t be more evident that the only reason he willfully gave up the seat is because his arrest made headlines. There’s no doubt he would have carried

EDITORIAL on — and he would have been sworn in as a trustee — had the story not been reported. Of all ironies, Tunnero ran on a platform of transparency. He told supporters they would always know where he stood on issues because he’d be an open book were he elected to the Lyndhurst Board of Education. And he was elected. And he turned out to be the least transparent “candidate” we’ve seen in recent memory. He should have dropped out of the race as soon as his booking was complete. Yet he didn’t, and he hoped, somehow, you wouldn’t find out about his alleged transgressions. He honestly believed this would all pass — think about it for a moment. Had he believed otherwise, why else would he have carried on as if nothing had happened? While Tunnero did the right thing by telling Bergen County Clerk John Hogan he wouldn’t accept the seat, he clearly did it for all the wrong reasons. Had his hand not been caught in the proverbial cookie jar, he would have been entrusted to care for

the finances and children in the Lyndhurst school system, all while a charge that he stole over $100K was hanging over his head. Thank goodness we’ll never know how he would have handled that. Of course, this has all led to absolute confusion. No one has the answer as to who will get his seat, including Hogan. Should the fourth-place votegetter in the election get the seat? Will the Board of Education, as it is constituted after it reorganizes, choose the person to take the seat that would have been Tunnero’s? Whatever happens, this situation has been a reminder of just how important it is to research and to pay attention to what candidates say when they run for local office. Sometimes, the more transparent a candidate appears, the less transparent they truly are. This was absolutely evident in this election. Meanwhile, the confusion remains. And one can only hope this is the first time — and the last — that something like this happens. The voters — in Lyndhurst and everywhere else — deserve so much more. And so much better.

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he Observer wants your news! If you’re part of an organization that has something newsworthy happening, let us know and we’ll let everyone else know. Now, while we cannot guarantee all press releases will be published,

we do do our best to get as many as possible into the newspaper — and when that’s not possible, we post them online on our website and to our social media pages (both Facebook and Twitter.) Here’s how to reach us. The preferred method is email. Send your releases

and photos to editorial@ theobserver.com. If, however, email isn’t an option, you can also fax us at 201-991-8941. Or, you can also take the old route of sending releases by snail mail to our office which, recall, is located now at 39 Seeley Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032.

You can also bring releases right to the office if you’d like — we’d love to have you in our new office. And, as always, we thank you for reading The Observer each and every week. So don’t delay — send us your news today.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

Nystrom cited for dedication to 9/11 Museum By Ron Leir Special to The Observer Kearny’s Marty Nystrom is now part of an elite group. He is the recipient of an “Excellence in Volunteering” award from the 9/11 Tribute Center in New York in recognition of his having led 400 tours of the World Trade Center site since he became a docent in 2010. The program, launched in 2005, has seen an estimated 1.7 million people pass through the 8-acre site. Of the more than 300 people who’ve been conducting the official tours on a regular basis, Nystrom estimates “probably a dozen of us have hit the 400 mark. Three are from New Jersey and the rest, from New York.” Nystrom said he believed there were “three or four” docents who’ve conducted as many as 500 tours. For the most part, he’s been handling two tours per month, with each tour lasting about an hour. “When you factor in travel time back and forth (he takes the bus into Manhattan and then switches to the PATH),” he said, “you’re looking at something like 1,600 hours total.” No matter how you look at it, that’s a lot of shoe leather. By the time he’d completed his 200th tour, Nystrom set a personal goal. “I wanted to do a tour in tribute to every emergency responder who was lost at 9/11,” he said. According to official records, 409 emergency responders lost their lives that day. Nystrom’s eligibility as a guide was due to his 23 years’ experience as a member of

Emergency Management Services teams in Newark and Maplewood. He spent four days at Ground Zero volunteering as part of the searchand-recovery effort. “But I’m not going to stop [leading tours],” Nystrom said, “because, remember, there are many more emergency responders who died after 9/11 from exposure to carcinogens after working at the site.” A high school classmate of Nystrom — who preferred to be anonymous — recalled the day he and family members from Scotland, including one who lost a relative at the WTC, took the tour with his buddy. “It was brilliant, the way Marty handled it,” he said. “It was informative but, at the same time, you could tell how much caring he puts into his job.” And there was the couple from England — Gary and Sue Wells of London — who took the time to write the 9/11 Tribute Center in December 2017 in appreciation of Nystrom’s moving account of the tragedy. So he’ll continue to “spread the word and tell the story” of Sept. 11, 2001, to keep the faith with those who gave their lives to try to save others in the face of the unspeakable terror attacks, particularly because he’s convinced there will be other attempts. And that’s why Nystrom feels it’s crucial to keep the memory of 9/11 alive — particularly for today’s youth who may be unaware of the history of the Twin Towers and what happened there on that fateful day in 2001. For the last five years, he said, the Kearny Police Department has arranged to take

Photo by Ron Leir

Marty Nystrom shows his award.

groups of its Junior Police Academy cadets — typically between 40 and 50 kids per trip — to visit the 9/11 museum and to tour the site so they can get an essential lesson. “Any one of those kids could up dealing with [a possible future attack] and if they do, I want them to know that

talking about it — instead of suppressing the memory — is the best way of coping with it,” Nystrom said. Nystrom has previously talked about coming to grips with his memories of having heard the cricket-like sounds of the Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) alarms trig-

gered by the units attached to the uniforms of firefighters crushed under the steel and concrete ruins of the WTC towers. “This is my Pearl Harbor — the 21st-century version of the sinking of the Arizona,” he said. “9/11 is the day I will never forget.”

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Belleville’s Silver Lake Firehouse on Franklin Street reopened last month after having been shut 5 years On Friday, Nov. 2, Essex County honored long-time Belleville for a full gutting and remaking. Its footprint remains the same although the vehicular entrance was widcommunity activist Eleanor ‘Butterfly’ Guarino with the dediened by a foot on either side to allow more maneuvering room for the station’s single engine. Prior, there cation of the Eleanor Guarino Playground Belleville Here is the updated template withlocated a new in photo of Jarlynn Hyde was only three inches of clearance on each side. The $500,000 project covered a new roof, new Advertising: electriPark on Belleville Avenue. At the naming ceremony were, from cal, plumbing and heating systems and a new kitchen, sleeping quarters, training area and exercise room left, Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura, State Sen. Tefor firefighters. One lieutenant and two firefighters man the house per shift. resa Ruiz, Freeholder Carlos Pomares, Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo, Eleanor Guarino and Freeholder Brendan Gil.

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Sellers should consider the notion that they will likely be able to sell their homes above list price if they tackle home-renovation projects themselves rather than trying to pass them on to buyers. Sellers who adopt this strategy are about 50% more likely to modify the home’s floor plan or finish off a basement than the average seller, and about 20% more likely to renovate a kitchen or repair a roof. They are generally 8% more likely to complete a bathroom upgrade. If sellers find they have less ambitious projects in mind, they are urged to focus on upgrades and repairs that are most cost-effective. A real estate

agent can help sellers see their homes through buyers’ eyes. If you think you may sell your home sometime soon, it makes sense to do as much as you can to boost its value. While upgrading a kitchen or bathroom may pay off, don’t neglect improving your home’s efficiency. As the number of energy efficient homes continues to rise, first time buyers and renters are beginning to favor upgraded homes over traditional homes due to the potential long-term savings. To learn more strategies for selling your home, please call or stop by our office. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

New schools in Lyndhurst & Harrison progressing according to plans Construction is proceeding quickly on public schools being built in Harrison and Lyndhurst. Workers from general contractor Brockwell & Carrington of Towaco are busy cementing the walls of the Kennedy Elementary School in Harrison which will accommodate pre-K, kindergarten and first grade. Harrison Schools Director of Personnel James P. Doran said the state Schools Development Authority – which is supervising the work – figures that the contractor will finish the $25.5 million construction job in time for an opening of classes by September 2019. “So far, they’re on target but still, it wouldn’t surprise me to see a few months’ delay,” he said.

in those schools for things like art, music and other uses. Doran said he anticipates “some reconfiguration of grades” after the new school opens. “We’ve been getting consistently higher numbers of children in kindergarten through grade 5,” he said. In Lyndhust, Dobco Inc., of Wayne is erecting steel for the township’s new junior high school rising on Matera Field to provide classes for grades 7, 8 and 9. The school is projected to open by September 2020. The $51.1 million construction job is being overseen by the township, which plans to use revenues from the sale of the Lincoln School property to pay off the school development debt. On Tuesday, Nov. 20, the

Alampi said the new school will rise on top of these parcels which were never before vacated so it’s now important that there be clear title to the site. By law, Alampi said, the township is required to offer the parcels to contiguous property owners but it turns out that their owners are

the township or the Board of Education. Ultimately, he said, the township “will convey our sections back to the Board of Education.” The township Board of Commissioners had scheduled a special meeting for Monday, Nov. 26, to discuss the “selection of interior finishes” at the

new school. Scott Bisig, business administrator for the BOE, said discussion could also include the choice of paint colors, furniture, cabinets and the like. BOE representatives will attend, he said. “We’ll see what they want to do,” he said. — Ron Leir

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Doran said the building – rising along Harrison Avenue across from the middle school – is to be outfitted with acoustic-adjusted windows, roofing and siding due to noise from overhead planes. Doran said the school is being designed to hold up to nearly 400 children and will help relieve a bit of overcrowding in the district’s older elementary schools. He said it would “free up 18 classrooms”

township Board of Commissioners introduced four ordinances to vacate portions of the right of way identified as two tracts comprising two-thirds of an acre of Brisbin Avenue, one tract comprising less than an acre of Fourth Street and one tract comprising less than an acre of Magnolia Avenue — all of which township attorney Carmine Alampi described as “paper streets” that run through Matera Field.

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10 Stewart Avenue home suffers ‘extensive damage’ in Dec. 4 fire THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

By Karen Zautyk kzautyk@theobserver.com KEARNY — A family of four has been temporarily displaced from their Stewart Avenue home after a fire swept through the residence last week. The day following the two-alarm Dec. 4 blaze at 19 Stewart, Kearny Fire Chief Steve Dyl said the cause was still undetermined, “without ruling out the possibility of

an electrical cause.” Dyl said only one resident, the father, was at home when the fire was first noticed, at about 8:30 p.m., in the wall above a fireplace. The man took the family dog and fled the two-story, wood-frame house, called 911 and was waiting outside when firefighters arrived. The KFD was assisted at the scene by companies from Harrison and North Arlington and the

blaze was under control by 9:19 p.m. However, there was extensive damage to the structure. Dyl said the flames extended to the second floor, feeding up through the walls and into the cockloft, so the firefighters “had to open all the walls” to extinguish them. “The firefighters were aggressive” in combating the blaze, and no neighboring homes were damaged, he noted.

There were also no injuries reported. Dyl said the home was at least temporarily uninhabitable and the residents — father, mother and two sons — were staying with family members. While the KFD was at the scene, the Jersey City and Bayonne FDs covered the town. Incident commander was Kearny Deputy Chief Robert Osborn.

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Continued from Page 4

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While outside the car, with the windows still closed, Stickno reportedly smelled the strong odor of raw marijuana. Police said a search revealed three bags of marijuana and a marijuana cigar inside the vehicle and six additional bags of the drug behind the gas-tank cover on the exterior. Carlos Serrano, 20, and Ethan Lozado, 18, both of Belleville, were charged with possession of pot/ paraphernalia, possession with intent to distribute, intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school and 500 feet of public property and conspiracy. Serrano was also charged with having CDS in a MV, illegally tinted windows and excessive idling. Both were released on summonses. Dec. 5 Officers Anthony Oliveira, Jose Castillo and Vic Girdwood and Sgt. Ward responded at 8:10 p.m. to Walmart, where security had detained Darrain Gilbert, 26, and Chavon Thomas, 25, both of Newark, for allegedly shoplifting. According to security, the pair had placed various

Photo by Andrew Taylor

The scene at Stewart Ave. fire.

clothing items into a shopping cart and then simply pushed the cart to the exit without paying for anything. When the KPD recovered the goods from the cart, police said, they also found unpaidfor Walmart jewelry inside the clothing. In total, the merchandise was said to be worth $1,047.91. Gilbert and Thomas were charged on summonses with shoplifting and later released. Thomas was found to be wanted on a $1,000 Newark warrant for harassment, but was released on his own recognizance with a new court date as per Newark authorities. *** At 8:15 p.m., Dets. Andrews and Cesar Negron and Officer Tim Castle observed Christopher Zapata, 21, of Belleville, inside the Kearny Avenue Dunkin’ Donuts. Police said they had been advised by Harrison detectives that Zapata was wanted on a nobail robbery warrant. Zapata was placed under arrest and,turned over a bag of pot that had been secreted in his underwear. He was transferred to the county jail with additional charges lodged for possession of pot/paraphernalia.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

sports&recreation Vikings start off bowling season in perfect fashion

SPORTS VIEW

McKenna rolls a 300 game in win over Paramus Catholic

CONTACT JIM HAGUE AT OGSMAR@AOL.COM

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Kearny’s favorite native son Raftery earns NJSIAA Hall of Fame PRINCETON – Long before Bill Raftery became a nationally recognized and respected Emmyaward winning sports announcer, long before he was a tenacious and spirited head college basketball coach, Bill Raftery was a basketball player, probably the best player to ever hail from his hometown of Kearny. “It was so long ago that people don’t even remember me as an athlete,” Raftery laughed, much like he does thousands of times when he tells a tale of his storied past. “Everyone thinks of you as being one thing. Being an athlete is a distant memory to most. I guess they have to rely upon what they can read.” So when the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association held its annual Hall of Fame induction luncheon last Monday at the Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village, the 500 or so

people in attendance got to read about Raftery’s achievements while as a player at the now-defunct St. Cecelia’s High School of Kearny. The luncheon program featured Raftery’s achievements at St. Cecelia’s, setting then a new single season state record by scoring 827 points in 1958-1959 and ending his career with 2,193 points, another state record. Those totals obviously set records in Hudson County as well. While Raftery’s scoring marks were eventually eliminated in any state-wide ranking, his scoring prowess remained at the top of the Hudson County scoring list for more than 30 years. Raftery was one of 17 legends who gained induction into the NJSIAA Hall of Fame last week. It caused Raftery to pause and reflect a bit on his

See VIEW, Page 13

The high school bowling season kicked off last week and the reigning NJSIAA North Jersey Section 1 Group I state champion North Arlington couldn’t have asked for a more perfect beginning. That’s because one of the Vikings, namely senior Eric McKenna, merely rolled a perfect game of 300 in the Vikings’ first match of the season against Paramus Catholic. It marked the Vikings’ first perfect game since Johnny Santiago rolled to perfection in 1987. That’s 31 years of bowling for one of the most storied programs in New Jersey high school bowling. It just shows how rare a perfect game truly is. McKenna, who is also a standout soccer player in the fall and baseball player in the spring, has been honored as The Observer Athlete of the Week in the past. Just last April, McKenna started the baseball season by pitching a no-hitter against Bogota and now just eight months later, he begins the bowling season with a perfect game. That’s even more remarkable. McKenna rolled a 256-247300 series for the opening series of 803. “I was just able to sit and watch the whole thing,” said North Arlington head bowling coach Dan Farinola. “He knew he wanted to have a big year and I don’t know if you

Photo by Jim Hague

The North Arlington boys’ bowling team is ready for a solid season, thanks to senior Eric McKenna (front row, center) who bowled a perfect game against Paramus Catholic last week. Front row, from left, are Rahul Patel, Emilio Arroyo, McKenna and Jimmy Pizzuta. Back row, from left, are Trent Petito, Liam Henkel, Peyton Esposito, Brian Kataro and head coach Dan Farinola.

could have a better start. He’s really settling in as a leader for s. He’s a lot calmer now. He’s taking his time and following through.” McKenna is rare, considering the fact that he is a twohanded bowler. Last year, the Vikings had a handful of twohanded bowlers, but McKenna is the lone wolf this season. And there was nothing better than rolling a perfecto to begin the season. Farinola believes that there is a correlation between McKenna’s ability as a pitcher and as a bowler. McKenna just recently signed his national letter of intent to attend Caldwell College beginning next fall.

“I think bowling is very similar to pitching,” Farinola said. “I think the two go hand in hand. It’s crazy, because he’s already locked in. He’s been really consistent. I think he’s more focused than ever before. He just goes out and does it.” Farinola believes that a good reason for his team’s success is the level of competition within the Vikings. “I think we have a friendly competition,” Farinola said. “They’re always trying to beat each other. And they’re always pushing each other. I think having Eric and Liam

See VIKINGS next page

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

VIKINGS

Continued from Page 11 (Henkel) together gives us good balance.” Henkel is also a fine bowler in his own right. The senior, who averaged 194 a game last year, was right around that score last week. “He’s as consistent as it gets,” Farinola said. Senior Trent Petito is another solid roller. “He’s much improved,” Farinola said. “He used to just launch the ball. Now, he’s more of a bowler. He’s smarter as a bowler and smooth.” Junior Rahul Patel is another top bowler. “He has also improved his game,” Farinola said of Patel, who has a 160 average. “He’s more consistent.” Freshman Peyton Esposito is also in the regular rotation. “He has a lot of potential,” Farinola said. “He’s going to be fun to watch develop.” Sophomore Jimmy Pizzuta is a rapidly improving bowler.

“I think it’s great for her that she’s able to compete with the girls every day,” Farinola said. “I think she’s been excited about us having a varsity team this year.” Junior Samantha Baulo is another fairly consistent bowler and should be the No. 2 on the NA Lady Vikings’ roster. Sophomore Leticia Ponce has shown a lot of promise. “She has a big hook,” Farinola said. “Every day, it’s going to get better and better.” Word of mouth is traveling that the girls now have a varsity team to call their own at NA. “Now that we have it, it’s Photo credit here just going to get better for us,” Farinola said. “I think the girls For the first time ever, North Arlington is fielding a girls’ bowling team. Front row, from left, are Leticia Ponce, Maya Silva and Lila Boudissa. Back row, from left, are Breanna Ferrara, Megi Xhelo, Gianna Sam- are ecstatic that we have it. martino, Samantha Baulo and head coach Dan Farinola. They’ve been having fun.” The teams competed in the Sophomores Simon Major and “We started it last year, but for the girls. It could be a great recent Tom Irwin Invitational Emilio Arroyo and freshman it was more of a JV program,” thing for our league.” with 30 teams participating. Brian Kataro are also contribu- Farinola said. “This year, we Farinola believes that having McKenna also competed in tors to the Vikings’ cause. wanted to have them compete a girls’ bowling program might the North Jersey Singles InvitaNot only does Farinola coach on the varsity level. In the past, encourage some more girls to tional Tournament, where he the boys’ team, but for the very we didn’t have the numbers to try their hand at bowling. placed fourth and entered the first time, North Arlington is field a girls’ team, but this year, “I think it makes the girls feel competition as the top seed. fielding a girls’ bowling team we did. I think it’s great for the more comfortable,” Farinola Rolling a perfect game will do that he will mentor. school and it’s a great thing said. “I think it’s more of a that for you. team mentality.” “I think it should be a fun Junior Gianna Sammartino year,” Farinola said. “We have might have been able to scrape high goals and I think we’re gothe boys’ roster, but now that ing to be a tough team to face.” there’s a girls’ varsity team, Expect the Vikings to her 140 average is right at the compete for yet another state top. sectional title in February.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

Raftery mentioned some legendary players he would go up against during those days, Continued from Page 11 guys like Hank Morano, who played at St. Peter’s College basketball playing days that and later became a Hudson began in his hometown. County Hall of Fame coach at “Kearny is still home,” Raft- Emerson High School in Union ery said. “I’m always running City, or Chet Forte, who was around from place to place, but an All-State basketball player I always say it’s my home. It at Hackensack High School was a great place to grow up. and later Columbia UniverAnd who would have thought sity, but gained more fame for it was a great place to play being the best sports television basketball. Everyone knows director of his era, working Kearny for soccer, but at for ABC Sports on Wide World that time, we had some great of Sports and Monday Night basketball in Kearny. It was an Football. area for good basketball. We “All these older guys gave had a bunch of guys who just you an opportunity to play and loved to play basketball all the get better,” Raftery said. “I was time.” constantly traveling all over to But it wasn’t the only sport play, places like the Littleton Raftery excelled at. He was Avenue Boys Club in Newark also a fine baseball player in or Audubon Park in Jersey the spring and a soccer player City.” in the fall. However, basketRaftery said that through ball was Raftery’s bread and all the different places and the butter. countless players that came “The biggest place to play from northern New Jersey, his was the Tappan Street playroots were always in his home. ground,” Raftery recalled. “A “For me, everything started lot of kids would go there and at home,” Raftery said. “Somejust hope to get into a game. one has to give you the push, We also used to turn around give you the encouragement.” and travel to the Montclair Raftery went on to play at YMCA and get good games LaSalle University and had a there. I was in eighth grade brief stint with the New York and I was playing against Knicks, before turning his adults.” attention to coaching, getting

VIEW

Premier Care

Photo credit here

Kearny native Bill Raftery (second left) receives induction into the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association Hall of Fame at the Princeton Westin recently. With Raftery are A.J. Morgan and David Campanello from sponsor R PS Bollin ger amd Jack DuBois, the NJSIAA assistant director and the chairman of the Hall of Fame committee.

a job first at FDU-Madison, before getting his big break, the head coaching job at Seton Hall, where he remained for 11 years. From coaching, Raftery became one of the most beloved basketball analysts in television, working for SportsChannel, doing New Jersey Nets games and college basketball on ESPN. He became identified with catch phrases like “onions,” “with a kiss,” “manto-man,” and the best line he ever uttered, in January 1988. when University of Pittsburgh power forward Jerome Lane obliterated the rim and shat-

tered the backboard, forcing Raftery to utter, “Send it in Jerome.” That call is now almost synonymous with Raftery. It’s prominent on Rafterty’s Wikipedia page. It’s been 40 years that Raftery has been calling basketball games as an announcer. And it’s safe to say that basketball is Bill Raftery’s life, even to this very day. He took a little break in his hectic schedule to attend the Hall of Fame luncheon with his wife Joan and two of his daughters. It was good to see Raftery holding court, like he was

basketball royalty. He greeted everyone with the same affable personality, like he was still that same kid bouncing from playground to playground in northern New Jersey, especially in his hometown of Kearny. “Our parents were Irish immigrants,” Raftery said. “They raised us kids and enabled us to get to college. They pushed us in the right direction. Basketball exposed me to so many people who gave me the opportunity to become a coach, become a broadcaster. And it all began in Kearny. I loved it. Kearny was part of my fabric.” And it’s that fabric which carried Bill Raftery from the playgrounds of Kearny to the state athletic association’s Hall of Fame. “Look at this class,” Raftery said. “We have Olympians (Erin Donohue in track and field), Heisman Trophy winners (Mike Rozier), World Series champion (Rick Porcello), an Olympic gold medal winner (Asjha Jones for basketball) and me. That’s not a bad class. I was just a kid from the Tappan Street playground.” But he’s always Kearny’s native son and he’s a Hall of Famer among his own state. Truly an honor.

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Kearny girls’ hoops squad tries to rebuild By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

to the play of do-everything guard Meagan McClelland, the 2017-2018 Observer Female Athlete of the Year, and strong power forward Estefania Dilone. Well, it’s sad to say that seniors eventually graduate

The Kearny High School girls’ basketball program enjoyed a sensational season a year ago, winning a schoolrecord 22 games, thanks a lot

from high school. McClelland is doing her thing these days as a standout goalkeeper for Rutgers University and the 20-and-under United States National soccer team. Dilone is playing basketball for Bloomfield College.

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The Kearny High School girls’ basketball team lost a lot to graduation and more to other circumstances, but these seniors are ready to fight for the red and white. Front row, from left, are Shawna Tonner, Gianna Nigro and Ariyonna Alves. Back row, from left, are head coach Jody Hill, Nicole DiNuzzo, Kaitlyn Aquino and Allison DiNuzzo.

In fact, veteran Kearny head girls’ basketball coach Jody Hill cannot recognize her roster, having lost an astounding 10 players from last year’s historic team. Seven seniors graduated from the team. Three others departed for an assortment of reasons. It leaves Hill with the daunting task of having to rebuild the Kardinals’ roster basically from scratch, using little-used underclassmen and total newcomers to the program. “We had a tremendous year last year and we enjoyed it,” said Hill, who amazingly begins her 23rd season as the head coach of the Kardinals. “But we realized how quickly things can turn around in high school sports.” Sure, things can change, but this is a complete devastation. “We’re looking on the bright side,” said Hill, the eternal optimist. “We have a goal in mind to try to improve every day. We have a lot of players from the JV (junior varsity) team from last year and we have some freshmen players, who were asking to take on some responsibilities.” But losing 10 players? That’s just astounding. Not only did the program graduate seven seniors, but Skyler Matusz has decided to concentrate on soccer and Kristina Hernandez and Nayely Melenciano moved away. What can you do? “I can’t remember ever having this situation before,” Hill said. “But I believe that a lot of the girls are looking for-

ward to the opportunity to get playing time. When one door shuts, another one opens. There are positive things that can come from this. We just have to keep working toward success. Added Hill, “I like challenges. I’ve always liked challenges. We all like a challenge. I think people are going to look past Kearny this year and I’ll say that with grit, intensity and hard work, we can succeed. If I can get the girls on board with that mentality, we’re going to have an enjoyable season.” Junior Eliana Huancaya is going to have to take on an increased role, especially since All-HCIAL honoree McClelland is in Piscataway. The 5-foot-3 Huancaya has a nice shot from the perimeter and also has the ability to be a good floor leader. “But we don’t want Eliana to be the next Meagan McClelland,” Hill said. “No one can be that. We can’t replace her. We just want Eliana to go and play. She’s going to be a leader and a scorer and that’s fine. She played all year round and has become pretty good.” Senior Gianna Nigro has also returned. The 5-foot-3 Nigro was a solid contributor last year. “She got good playing time last year and she deserves to have a good senior year,” Hill said. “She’s been very vocal and that helps. She’s the best shooter on the team. We need her to get that shot off. We’re

Dr. Maria Domingues

Continued on the next page

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

counting on her. We need her to take shots.” Junior Samantha Osorio is the team’s 5-foot-9 forward. “She’s one of our most athletic players,” Hill said of Osorio. “She can jump so high. I’m amazed at her jumping ability. She also has developed a knack of catching the ball, then making a move. She’s developed a nice little post move and is more fundamentally sound. She also does all the little things right.” One of the team’s captains is a profile in courage. Senior Kaitlyn Aquino is a 5-foot-6 forward, but more importantly, just the fact that she is on the floor serves as a reminder of how tough playing high school sports can be. Aquino suffered two torn anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs) in a span of 13 months and had to endure the grueling rehabilitation process twice. “She really is an inspiration to us all,” Hill said of Aquino,

the cousin of Hill’s assistant coach Janitza Aquino, a former Observer Female Athlete of the Year honoree. Senior Allison DiNuzzo is a 5-foot-11 senior forward. Her twin sister Nicole is currently out of action with an injury. “She’s a positive person who gives 100 percent at practice,” Hill said. “She gives you everything she can and will give us solid minutes.” Sophomore Esmeralda Ruiz is a 5-foot-6 guard who has impressed Hill in the preseason. “She’s one of the toughest kids on the team,” Hill said. “She’s very feisty. She gets on the floor after loose balls. She’s going to see tremendous minutes this season. She’s very well rounded.” Julie Fernandez is a 6-foot sophomore forward with a ton of promise. In fact, she might remind some of Dilone when Dilone was a raw sophomore. “She’s a presence inside,” Hill said. “She’s very strong.

We’re working on her post moves and her foot quickness down low.” Senior Shawna Tonner will also contribute at either the guard or forward positions. Faith Remias is a 5-foot-10 junior forward. “She’s strong around the basket,” Hill said. “She dedicated herself to the game and played a lot of AAU basketball in the summer. She’s also a vocal kid who is going to help us.” Soccer standout Alison Can-

ales is also on the basketball team. The 5-foot-7 sophomore is a benefit to the Kardinals’ defensive side. “She’s extremely athletic,” Hill said. “She has good speed and plays great defense. We just have to find her strengths. She brings a lot of positive energy.” Sophomore Cheyanne Iverson will also find her way into the rotation before season’s end. As the Kardinals begin to tip off the 2018-19 season Fri-

day afternoon at home against Dickinson of Jersey City, the eternal optimist in red and white is doing exactly that. “I have a lot of belief in these girls,” Hill said. “They have a lot of talent when they play together. My mind doesn’t stop. I just have to put them in the right positions and expose our strengths. I’ve had to handle challenges before, but this is tenfold. I think these girls are ready to do better. We’re just going to try to figure it all out.”

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

551-553 Kearny Ave., Kearny, NJ 07032 201-997-7860 1.

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Pedro Rodrigues

KEARNY

REDUCED! 1 Family - One Family on treeline street, Deck at the back and Large Yard. 3 Bedrooms, Living Rm/Dining Rm Combo, Kitchen, Full Bath and Full Basement. Ready for your personal touch, Driveway and Oil Tank has been removed. Asking $224,900

NEWARK

1 Family - Beautiful tree lined street in the manor section of Kearny. Basement is framed & ready to be finished. Colonial w/living Rm, dining Rm, sun porch, modern eat in kitchen, tiled bath w/skylight, large master bedroom & 2 additional bedrooms. Asking $389,000

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2 Family - New Construction, 2 Family, Arlington section of Town, near public transportation and schools. Approximately 1600 sq ft of living space per floor. Ground level has family room, full bath, laundry and summer kitchen. Two car attached garage. Construction will begin soon. Asking $749,000

GARFIELD

2 Family - 2 New Construction Homes both 2-Family of quality construction. Each unit with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, oak hardwood floors, ceramic tiled kitchen and bathrooms, 1 Family - - Lovely One Family at edge of Forest Hill section of Newark’s North Ward. Conveniently across the street from Ridge St Elementary School. Good sized rooms, Modern Kitchen, Open front porch and parking for 2 cars. Asking $310,000

central A/C, built in 2 car garage and driveway, and recreation area in basement. Tax abatement. Asking $485,000

10.

NORTH BERGEN

11.

NEWARK

Townhouse - 4 year old Davenport Model located at a newly developed Signature Place At Garfield with a clubhouse, gym and outdoor pool. Near Elmwood Park border. 1 car garage plus an additional parking space with keyless entry. Maple cabinets and granite counter-tops in kitchen & baths. Recessed lighting in kitchen, loft and master bedroom. Hardwood floors on 1st level. W/W carpeting on 2nd level. Asking $399,000

12.

REDUCED! Co-Op - 1This is a Co-op complex and all buyers must comply with Co-op rules and regulations. Hardwood floors, upgraded kitchen, ceramic tiles bathroom and 2 bedrooms. Across from Hudson Park, street parking, and easy access to local bus transportation. Taxes included in maintenance fee. Asking $166,500

13.

KEARNY

NORTH BERGEN

16.

NORTH ARLINGTON

14.

PLAINFIELD

15.

NORTH BERGEN

1 Family - Totally Renovated Home. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 1.5 Baths, backyard with patio plus 2 car parking. Close to everything. Asking $254,000

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MONTVILLE

Condo - Overlooking the Meadowlands with West View is this beautifully renovated condo. Modern kitchen, ceramic tiled bathrooms, open floor plan for living room and dining room. Used as 2 bedrooms with front and rear access. Asking $232,990

18.

KEARNY

LAND - Excellent lot to build your dream home on a private 2.5 acres.

4 Family - Opportunity to own 4 Family. Solid building, stucco exterior, all 4 apartments have individual gas, electric, hot water and furnaces. Great location close to bus transportation, local shopping and local roads. Limited access residential street, high unfinished basement with laundry hook ups, driveway and yard for parking and good sized rooms. Asking $489,900

19.

KEARNY

Rowhouse - Half of a duplex, attached on one side. Wood floors throughout. Modern kitchen with granite countertop & oak cabinets. Paver patio with above-ground pool. Bathroom with a claw-foot bathtub. Large master bedroom. Asking $299,000

DIRECTORY

1 Family - Ranch style home in great location with 4 bedrooms and 2 full bath. Close to everything. Asking $299,000

UNDER CONTRACT 3 Family - 1st floor w/ 1 Bedroom, Living Rm, Modern Kitchen & Modern Bath. 2nd Floor w/ 3 Bedrooms, Living Rm, Modern Kitchen & Modern Bath. 3rd Floor w/ 2 Bedrooms, Living Rm, Modern Kitchen & Modern Bath. Laundry Room w/ Coin Operated Machines for Tenants Use on 1st Floor. Detached 2 car garage with parking for 5 additional cars. All hardwood Floors. Separate Utilities. New kitchens, baths, plumbing, electric, vinyl siding and roof. Asking $559,000

Real Estate

REDUCED! 1 Family/Store - One family with store, corner property. Residential space with Living Rm, Dining Rm, Eat-in-Kitchen, 3 Bedrooms and Bathroom plus Bedroom in Attic. 1 car garage. Great potential for occupant who wants to live above business, or needs a well exposed location. Asking $172,900

UNDER CONTRACT

transportation and shopping.

1 Family - Manor Section - Beautifully Renovated Colonial w/4 Good Size BR, 2.5 Modern Bathrooms, Modern Kitchen w/ Center Island, Granite Countertops, New Cabinets & Stainless Steel Appliances, Living Rm w/ Wood Burning Fireplace, Dining Rm w/ Coffered Ceilings & Door to Deck Overlooking Backyard. Finished Basement w/ Rec Rm & Laundry Rm. Asking $565,000

Asking $390,000 20.

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

Lyndhurst adopts strict crane regulations By Ron Leir Special to The Observer Contractors operating cranes locally will, henceforth, be under the watchful eye of township overseers. The Lyndhurst Board of Commissioners voted Nov. 20 to adopt an ordinance governing the “registration and use of cranes in the municipality.” Such standards are needed as “a matter of public safety,” the ordinance reads, since “active cranes in the municipality operate in a dense urban environment, often in close proximity to residential units, office spaces and pedestrians, thus underscoring the need for professional crane operators who adhere to the highest standards of safety.” Township attorney Carmine Alampi said a pitch for such legislation was made by Springfield-based Local 825 of the International Union of Operating Engineers. The ordinance requires crane operators working in Lyndhurst to: • Secure a permit from

the township Building Department five days before starting work unless the township building inspector agrees to waive that condition for emergency situations. A permit fee is $100 and is valid for 60 days. For an extension or renewal, the fee is $50. • Produce a copy of the permit on the work site when requested. • Show proof they hold a crane-operator certificate from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO), Operating Engineers Certification Program or Crane Institute of America Certification; a New Jersey crane license; a current medical examiner’s card; and current proof of inspection for the crane being operated. • Show proof of insurance for bodily injury of $500,000 for any one person and $1 million for any occurrence and insurance for property damage providing $500,000 coverage for any one accident and $2 million coverage for any aggregate of incidents. • Show proof the operator submits to a random drugtesting program.

Once an applicant has submitted all required documentation, the building department has five days to issue the requested permit. Only properly licensed crane operators can work in the township and such licenses are deemed valid only “in conjunction with a current certification and only in the specialty or specialties for which the crane operator is certified,” namely, “lattice boom crawler crane, lattice boom truck crane, telescopic book cranes, tower cranes and overhead cranes.” To be “eligible for a license as a crane operator in the municipality,” applicants must be at least 18; hold certification from the NCCCO or any other agency offering an equivalent testing and certification program that meets the requirements of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers B30.5 and accreditation requirements of the National Commission for Certifying Agencies; have at least 1,000 hours of crane-related experience; and maintain a current medical examiner’s

certification card. Crane operators must also reside in New Jersey. If an accident involving a crane happens, causing personal injury or property damage, it is the responsibility of the owner of the property to “immediately notify” the township, whose agent shall be given access to investigate. If the accident is caused by equipment breakdown, “it shall be lawful to use such device until after an examination by the municipality is made and approval of the equipment for continued use is granted.” However, if any “safety or operational aid” used in connection with the crane’s operation isn’t working properly, the operator “shall immediately shut down the crane” until the safety device is repaired and the crane is restored to “proper working order.” Every crane must be inspected “before being erected or operated for the first time on any job” and every crane must be inspected at least once a month. These inspections “shall include …

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all blocks, shackles, sheave, wire rope, connectors and various devices on the master boom, controls and braking mechanisms.” A “written, dated and signed record of each inspection,” with the name of the employee or agency responsible for the inspection, is required and the most recent record “shall be posted inside the cab of such crane,” with a copy to be filed with the municipality. Any crane which “becomes unsafe” to operate shall be so designated by the municipal engineer and shall then be “taken down or removed or made safe” at the discretion of the engineer, who shall file a report on the matter and shall serve the owner/agent a written notice listing repairs needed. Failure to comply with the municipality’s requirements subjects the operator to a fine of between $1,000 and $10,000 for each violation. Any company employing or permitting an unlicensed operator to work is liable for a fine ranging from $2,000 to $20,000 per violation for each day of illegal operation.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

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

obituaries@theobserver.com Manuel Silva Manuel Silva of Kearny, formerly of Newark, died Nov. 29, 2018. He was 85. Private arrangements were by the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mr. Silva had been a laborer for P. Pepe and Sons in Newark. He was the brother of Mary Ann Silva, Joseph Silva and the-late Rosemarie Klossek, Peter, Anthony and Frank Silva. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the American Heart Association.

obituaries

Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Anna was the wife of thelate Edward Glospie. She is survived by her son Edward Glospie and step-son Nick Corcia. Sister of Mary Sperazzo, Helen Failla, Ida Marsillo and the-late Albert Cioffi and Louise Limitone, she was recently predeceased by her son John Glospie. Kindly consider a memorial donation to the Shrine of the Miraculous Medal in Philadelphia.

Rosemary Ferrero; nieces and nephews Peter Ferrero, Maureen Grenevich, Robert Ferrero and wife, Karen; Elizabeth Ferrero; and special life-long friends Dave Walsh and wife Lois; and Ray Walsh and wife Maureen. Walter graduated from Seton Hall University and then went on to receive his law degree from Seton Hall Law School. He had a career in state government and held various titles with the office of Legislative Services — the nonpartisan staff of the New Walter Kennedy Jersey Legislature — inWalter Kennedy died peace- cluding Senior Legislative fully Friday, Nov. 30, surCounsel and Principal Staff rounded by members of his Council. family. Walter’s career in state Anna I. Glospie Walter was born and raised government paralleled his Anna I. Glospie (nee Ciin Harrison and moved to service in municipal governoffi) died Dec. 1, 2018. Manchester after his retirement with the Town of HarShe was 87. ment. Visiting was at the rison — he held the office of Born in Newark, she lived Armitage & Wiggins Funeral town attorney and prosecutor in Kearny before moving to Home, Kearny. Mass was and others as well. North Arlington many years celebrated at Holy Cross In his retirement, Walago. Church, Harrison. Burial ter enjoyed playing golf, Visiting was at the Armitwas in Holy Cross Cemetery, especially at the 11th hole age & Wiggins Funeral Home, North Arlington. in Sugarloaf Golf Club in Kearny. Mass was celebrated Walter is survived by his Maine where he made his at St. Stephen’s Church, beloved companion, Berfamous hole-in-one, travelKearny. Entombment was in nice McGrath; his sister ling through Europe which

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obituaries@theobserver.com

Howard Wetmore Howard Wetmore, 63, of Lyndhurst, died Dec. 1, 2018. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. Cremation was private. Born in Kearny, Howard Christine Pickel lived there and in Harrison Christine Pickel of Kearny before moving to Lyndhurst died Dec. 2, 2018. 15 years ago. She was 54. He was a salesman/wareVisiting was at the Armithouseman for Raymour & age & Wiggins Funeral Home, Flanigan, Secaucus. He was a Kearny. Cremation was bingo volunteer at St. Steprivate. phen’s Church. Christine was an assisHe is the dear father of tant director of the Bright Deanna, Anthony and theHorizons Daycare Center in late Jason Wetmore. Brother Jersey City. of Dennis Wetmore, he was Daughter of the late Euthe grandfather of Summer gene and Joan (McDonough) and former husband of Susan Pickel, she is survived by Fottler. her brothers Ronald Pickel In lieu of flowers, donations (Barbara) and James Pickel to (www.njsharingnetwork. and her nephews Douglas and org) the NJ Sharing Network, Connor. 691 Central Ave. New ProviIn lieu of flowers, kindly dence, N.J. 07974 or Hudson consider a donation to St. Hospice, 93 Clark St., Jersey Jude Children’s Hospital. City, N.J. 07304 would be appreciated.

All Saints Church

A Progressive, Welcoming Church in the Anglican Tradition

Sunday Mass 2:30 PM The Rev. Richard A. Donato -Pastor-

Photo courtesy of Rev. Ivan Sciberras

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

always included a stay in Ireland and visiting all but four of the United States. His quick wit and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

Mass for those in Blue

Belleville Police Chief Mark Minichini leads a procession into St. Peter’s Church, Belleville, for the parish’s annual Blue Mass to honor those in law enforcement. The liturgy was part of the church’s late Sunday morning Mass and takes place annually around this time of year. Fr. Ivan Sciberras, pastor, reports a very large crowd for the celebration.

380 Kearny Ave., Kearny, NJ 07032 (Grace UMC Church Building) 201-948-5007 www.facebook.com/allsaintskearny

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, DECEMBER 12, 2018

www.theobserver.com

The bserver is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the next week s publication. No changes or refunds. Deadline for classifieds is onday by .

CLASSIFIEDS

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

As a courtesy, we try our best when it comes to communicating to our customers regarding ads that are expired. But It is not guarantee. Please be sure to make a note of the expiration date on your ad.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

KEARNY

N.ARLINGTON

NUTLEY

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30W03.

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30W03.

LICENSE FOR SALE

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SEEKING AN APARTMENT TO RENT

31W03

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To place an ad call: 201991-1600

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N. ARLINGTON 1 BR apt, 3 rooms in Garden apart@theobserver. ment Complex 2nd FL $1,200/month. Heat/HW 1 Commercial included; 1 parking availacom parking space curity. Avail 01/01/2019. ble, Laundry on premises, available in Nutley No pets, Single or Couple (973)941-7230 31w03 Deadline 3PM preferred. Avail Dec 15th, up to 24 ft. Call btw 10am-7pm only (201) 390-1729 201-997-2341. 31W03 HARRISON 2 bedroom Mondays Classifified 30W03 on 2nd floor and 1 bedKEARNY 1st floor modDeadline 3PM room on first floor. Near ern 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. If you miss it Monday Transportation. Leave Living/Dining room. message (201)667-9304. classified@theobserver.com Kitchen. Central AC, HardLYNDHURST 31W03 201-991-1600 wood floors, W/D hook we can place up. Garage plus 1 parking or come into space. $2,200/mth. Sepour office at online! erate Utilities. No Pets. 39 Seeley Ave., (201)725-1212. 31W01 LYNDHURST 1 BR apt. Kearny HARRISON 2nd FL, New Off St. parking. Close to house , 2 BR’s apt, 2 baths transp. $1,395/mth 973, 1 Parking space, Avail760-4877 30W03 able Now. Call 646- 708TESTIMONIAL 6969 / 646-675-5113 KEARNY Arlington Section. 1 BR, H/W Floors. 31W03 I would like to thank everyone at The Observer for such Walking distance to schools & Supermarket, outstanding service. I grew up in Kearny, Class of 88 all public transportation “Go Kardinals.” I have been a landlord and NY bus. Avl. Jan 1st. ORANGE (201) 657-2119. 31W03. for the past 18 years .. when I first started, I had a really LYNDHURST 2 XL BR on quiet street, 1st floor, tough time renting. Until I found your classified section.. XL LR, DR, EIK, 1 parking ORANGE Newly renoI have used it many times and every time I have, the space, h/w floors, close to vated 3 BR, Ceiling Fans, KEARNY First floor, 1 NYC transp. W/D hookup, results were awesome. I’m really glad I found u guys. I Hardwood Floors, Mi- BR. Apt. Bldg. Arlington rear deck, access to yard, crowave, Refrigerator. Sect. Newly Renovated. no pets or smoking. would also like to say that I enjoy reading your newspa$1650 + 1 month se- Laundry on Premises. $1,750 (utilities included) per every week. Thank you, guys! curtiy. H/HW included. HT/HW included. Near + 1 mo/security. Available No Fees. No Pets. Call transportation. No pets. 1/15/19 Call Jackie @ — Steven Norelli Supor 973-280-9294 $945/mo.+ security. 862-579-1265 before 10 29W03 (201) 998-4972 31W03 PM. 31W03

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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

www.theobserver.com www.theobserver.com

TheObserver Observerisisnot notresponsible responsiblefor fortypographical typographical The errors.Credit Creditfor forerrors errorswill willnot notbe begranted grantedafter afterthe the errors. week’s publication. refunds.No nextnext week’s publication. $10No forchanges minimal or changes. Deadline for for classifieds is Monday by 3:00 PM.PM. refunds. Deadline classifieds is Monday by 3:00 E-mail Help wanted Ads to classified@theobserver.com

CLASSIFIEDS

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

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EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

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Registered Environmental Health Specialist Permanent Part-time (24.5 hours per week; Schedule Varies weekdays/weekends) –Kearny, NJ. Closing Date: January 11, 2019: $20.3031.82/hour based on experience. The Town of Kearny Department of Health has an opening for part-time Registered Environmental Health Specialists. See link for job New Jersey CSC job specs https://info.csc.state.nj.us/ jobspec/08061.htm. The applicant must hold a valid New Jersey Registered Environmental Health Specialist license and a valid New Jersey driver’s license. The schedule varies weekdays, weekends, and must be available for emergency hours. 24.5 hours/week. Bilingual Spanish/English preferred. See Town of Kearny Link for application http://www.kearnynj.org/JobOpportunities 31w03

to thank you and all the employees of the Observer newspaper for a job well done. I didn’t know that your newspaper reached so many people. Close to 100 people responded to the add I placed in your publication in such short period of time. We are very satisfied with the service you provided us. Augusto M.

THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

TREES

Continued from Page 1 brother, Bruce Diehl, in mind, Williams said. Diehl, who died in August, saw combat action with the 25th Army Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. While he escaped physical injury, Diehl returned stateside with PTSD and other ills associated with exposure to Agent Orange, according to Williams. ”I thought of all our veterans at holiday time, many of whom are alone,” Williams said, and in need of something to lift their spirits. So, in her then-role as Franklin student council adviser, Williams enlisted student volunteers to decorate mini-trees for disabled veterans at regional V.A. facilities. The Women’s Auxiliary of the Kearny-based Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1302 deliver the trees and goodie bags to the veterans. This year s gifts will be going to vets staying at the Alaris Health in Kearny and to V.A. hospitals in Paramus and East Orange. Lincoln School eighth-grader Michael Charney, president of the school s student council, said council members made posters and did morning announcements, encouraging peers to sign up for decorating teams ranging from as few as one to as many as five. Teams had to invest $5 for the purchase of their own tree and were responsible for bringing their own accoutrements, whether ornaments,

HIT & RUN

Continued from Page 1 curred: On Nov. 30, at approximately 8:05 a.m., Officer Richard Poplask Jr. responded to the intersection of Bergen and Davis avenues on a report of a 9-yearold boy — a student at Franklin School — struck by a car. Poplaski’s investigation revealed the boy had been struck while he was in a crosswalk, hit the hood of the car and fell to the ground. Simoes then reportedly fled the scene, according to Wagner. The boy was treated and later released from University Hospital Trauma Center, Newark. Video stills of the

bells, cardboard or cellophane stars, garlands, and coming up with their own design, Charney said. And, just to ensure the process remained orderly, the rules stated that, there were to be no inappropriate gestures or words exchanged between teams, he added. For Charney — like Williams — the project had a special meaning. “My great-grandfather, who just passed in October, was a World War II Army veteran and my grandfather was in the Army in Vietnam and he received an award for his service,” the eighth-grader said. “Veterans serve our country and we wouldn’t be here without them.” Principal Robert Zika Sr. praised the participating youths for doing the community credit. Yes, they re competing for prizes, Zika said, but the biggest reward they re receiving is working with their peers and bringing a little bit of cheer to deserving veterans. Just seeing the joy on their faces is reward enough. Youngsters were divided into two groups to tackle their team projects: one group worked Tuesday, Dec. 4, from 2:45 to 4 p.m., and the other group was assigned the same time period Wednesday, Dec. 5. Each child was treated to a snack, drink and door prize. Contest winners were to be announced Dec. 10 and the winning entries were to be displayed at the school s holiday concert on Dec. 12, Williams said. On Dec. 14, the VFW Women’s Auxiliary will pick up the trees and goodie bags for delivery to the veterans.

POLICE BEAT striking vehicle recovered from nearby surveillance cameras were widely disseminated by the police department via social and traditional media. On Dec. 2, KPD Officers Chris Manolis and Jordenson Jean separately told Poplaski they recognized the striking vehicle as belonging to a Windsor Street resident. The vehicle was located a few hours later near the owner’s place of employment in North Arlington. Late Dec. 3, Simoes, a friend of the car’s owner, turned himself in at KPD Headquarters on Laurel Avenue as the driver responsible for the hit-and-run

incident. Meanwhile, a witness tells The Observer she was mortified by what she saw that day while she was driving in the area. “The boy was not moving — and he was lying in the street near the curb,” she said. “At first, I was worried about the boy being motionless, but that was probably because other adults on the scene told him not to move in case there were spinal or head injuries. I was so relieved when he first moved. I can’t get out of my head what I saw, but I am so happy he’s OK. The results here could have been catastrophic, but they weren’t, thank God.”

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27 MPG HWY

NATIONAL AWARD WINNER BUICK DEALER OF THE YEAR

Black, VIN#JK150703, Stk#19-1051, 6-Cyl, FRWD, Auto, MSRP: $33,795. Based on 36 Mo Closed End Lease. $3,914 due at delivery incl. $2,995 down pymnt, $269 1st pymnt & $650 bank fee. 10,000 mi/yr excess mi @ $.25 thereafter. Ttl pymnts: $9,684. Residual value: $20,614 Incl. $1,000 Lease Loyalty if qual.

2-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE^^

RING IN THE HOLIDAYS WITH BUICK

NEW 2018 BUICK

REGAL SPORTBACK Silver, VIN#J1144502, Stk#18–335, 4-Cyl, FWD, Auto, On Start, Backup Cam. ^$500 Factory Rebate, $1,495 Dealer Discount, $1,000 Down Pymnt Asst., $3,500 GM Lease Loyalty Rebate, $500 Costeo Rebate if qualified. Must Finance w/ GM Finance.

30 MPG

32 MPG HWY

2-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE^^

21,995

Buy For^

HWY

NEW 2019 BUICK

ENCORE

127

NEW 2018 BUICK

QuickSliver, VIN#JB696707, Stk#19- , 4-Cyl, FRWD, Auto, MSRP: $25,990 Based on 39 Mo Closed End Lease. $3,772 due at delivery incl. $2,995 down pymnt, $127 $1 1st pymnt & $650 bank fee. 10,000 mi/yr excess mi @ $.25 thereafter. Ttl Tt pymnts: $4,953. Residual value: $14,555 Incl. $1,500 Lease Lease if qual.

Lease per mo x 39 mos* 2-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE^^

ENCLAVE ESSENCE

359

Lease per mo x 39 mos*

25 MPG HWY

Black, VIN#JJ238286, Stk#18-304, 6-Cyl, AWD, Auto, 7 Passenger, Back Up Cam, NAV, Rf Rck, Keyless Entry, MSRP: $49,945 Based on 39 Mo Closed End Lease. $4,354 due at delivery incl. $3,345 down pymnt, $359 1st pymnt & $650 bank fee. 10,000 mi/yr excess mi @ $.25 thereafter. Ttl pymnts: $14,001. Residual value: $28,469. Incl. $1,500 Lease Lease if qualified.

2-YEAR FREE MAINTENANCE^^

199 Route 17 South, E. Rutherford, NJ • 201.939.6800 • BellaviaChevy.com Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by consumer, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes. ^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. Optional equipment extra. See dealers for complete details Other restrictions may apply.Pics are illustrative only. Offers end 1/2/19.

24 Last week left to bring in toys for children in need! THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018

Deadline is December 14th.

Coccia Realty’s Annual Toy Drive

We are collecting new unwrapped toys for those less fortunate. Drop off at your local BHGRE Coccia Realty Office Kearny 636 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 201.997.7000

Lyndhurst 424 Valley Brook Ave. Lyndhurst, NJ 201.939.8900

Rutherford 11 Park Ave. Rutherford, NJ 201.939.0001

TOP AGENTS OF THE MONTH Kearny Ofﬁce: Guillaume DaSilva 201.702.9398 guillaume.m.silva@ gmail.com

Lyndhurst Ofﬁce: George Rosko 201.218.0841 g.rosko@att.net

AVAILABLE HOMES

LYNDHURST

$400,000

KEARNY

$400,000

NORTH ARLINGTON

KEARNY

$547,000

KEARNY

$325,000

KEARNY

Modern 3 bedroom, 2 full bath Colonial with a beautiful large walk up ﬁnished attic! Updated kitchen and baths, hardwood and tile ﬂooring, front porch, nice size driveway and deep yard with paver patio. Spacious home, perfect for entertaining.

Completed gutted/renovated 2 fam w/3 bedrms each ﬂ. Sep heat Central AC. Fin Basement, deck off rear.

3 bedroom, 2 bath brick cape in Arlington section 2 car garage, recently update- new kitchens and baths, wood ﬂooring.

3 bedrm 2 bath exp cape w/garage- nice clean home! Also available for Rent or rent $2,200 w/possible option to buy!

$495,000

LYNDHURST

$395,000

$429,000

LYNDHURST

$280,000

Lovely 2 family home w/lots of parking. 1st ﬂ 5 rms, 3 bedrms, 2nd ﬂ 4 rms, 2 bedrms. Fin base w/summer kitchen, full bath & 3 season room!

Arlington section 2 fam w/built in garage, 2 bedrooms each ﬂoor, 3 baths, separate heat, wood ﬂoors!

Lovely Young townhouse, near train station! 2 bedrms, 2.5 baths- garage- fam rm & low maint fee.

2 bdrm, 2 bath 1st ﬂ condo w/parking. Large living rm w/balcony, large din rm, kitchen, King size master suite, laundry rm. Pet friendly!

CALL US TO SELL YOUR HOME 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 1/1/18 to 8/7/18, deemed reliable but not guaranteed.