e-Newspaper for May 8, 2024

UNDER THE COVER

Auditions for WHATCo’s Shakespeare productions taking place May 8 in Harrison Page 7

A KING ABDICATES

Chief retires 39 1/2 years after first joining Kearny Police Department

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

As George King walked out of Kearny Police Headquarters on Laurel Avenue the morning of April 30, he was likely unaware of the throng that had gathered to see him off. They came from all over Kearny, all over Hudson County, all over the State of New Jersey, local, county and state agencies.

But they all were there to bid adieu to a man who for almost 40 years of his life walked into the police department and who was walking out one final time as he sets off to a new life in retirement.

After being piped in by the St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band, of which he will

remain a member, and following a welcome from Chief Scott Macfie and the chief’s eldest son, George III, King spoke, something that has always come with ease, an a great sense of humor.

“When I walked out and saw everyone here, it was a wow moment,” King said.

“I’ve always been proud to be a Kearny police officer and it’s always been something I loved to do and I knew the time was right for me to step aside. But I want to thank everyone who came out.”

The chief then listed off countless people who had gathered to say farewell.

“To my friends who are here, this is a little over-

See KING, Page 14

Photos by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

Main photo: George King Jr., center, stands with his wife, Ruth, and three sons, George III, Sean and William. Inset: King is presented the last flag to fly over police headquarters on his final day in office, April 30, by the KPD’s Honor Guard.

MELHAM SAYS THE STATE OF THE

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Belleville Mayor Michael A. Melham is known for his elaborate State of the Township addresses each year, creating multi-media and a party-like atmosphere to highlight many of the initiatives he’s undertaken.

This year was no different, as the mayor took center stage at Nanina’s in the Park on April 29 in front of a large room of supporters to provide an hourlong update. Melham’s remarks

went across the board, focusing on the stable municipal tax rate, ongoing smart redevelopment and a pro-cop message. Likely the definitive moment of Melham’s speech came toward the end, when he shared a story about his father, Richard, who received a plaque in 1979 for helping purchase the first-ever bulletproof vests for the Belleville Police Department. Times have drastically changed, the mayor said, noting criminals are now using high-powered weapons that can easily blow through those anti-

quated vests of yesteryear.

That is why the mayor, through his non-profit Michael Melham Civic Association, presented a ceremonial check to the president of the Belleville PBA for $10,000. The money will be used to purchase armored shields for patrols cars, the mayor said, adding he hopes that others in the community follow suit and make donations to support Belleville’s finest.

As part of his many acknowledgements, Melham singled out Sen. Britnee Timberlake (D-34), who took office in January after

serving in the Assembly. “Senator,” he said, “we get along for a reason. We don’t back down, (and) as a matter of fact, we tend to double down!”

In terms of redevelopment, there was plenty of news to share.

“Economic growth needs access to adequate parking,”

the mayor said. “And we know parking is at a premium all over northern New Jersey. By using developer community contributions to acquire land for metered and permit parking lots, we can enhance local commerce by turning once neglected areas

Continued on the next page

Jaffe Communications Belleville Mayor Michael A. Melham is not one for the simple. Such was the case last week as he delivered Belleville’s State of the Township address at Nanina’s.

TOWNSHIP REMAINS STRONG

Continued from previous page

into thriving commercial hubs.”

To that end, he said, the Township Council is embarking on several aggressive projects to acquire land across Washington Avenue and Silver Lake for public parking lots.

“And we are just getting started in Silver Lake,” he said. “Ripe for revitalization, after supporting the existing light rail with parking, it will be perfectly positioned to become the charming, bustling business district Belleville has long deserved.”

Franklin Street, with its existing commercial zoning, has the bones to become a vibrant downtown area that truly reflects the spirit of the neighborhood, Melham said.

“I do not foresee large, residential mixed-use buildings in Silver Lake, rather lively streets, bustling with restaurants, cafes and bars that attract both commuters and locals, possibly also transforming into a pedestrian-only zone on weekends to host live music and farmers

markets,” the mayor said.

The narrative that modern buildings are bursting the seams of our schools is a myth — a complete fabrication unsupported by the hard, indisputable facts, the mayor said, adding “those who spread such misinformation are either blissfully unaware of the realities or, worse, intentionally deceptive to serve their own ends.

“If we face overcrowding in our schools, look to the district’s re-registration process that was neglected for the past four years or the repurposing of classrooms for all the new administrators earning six-figure salaries,” he said.

Melham also called upon the Belleville Board of Education to re-take control of the school district from the state.

“This is the moment,” he said.

“The present situation — tax increases, test scores trailing state averages, and math proficiencies in the single digits — should not and cannot be the status quo.”

Several noted this portion of the speech received the most

applause.

In a message to the school board, Melham said: “As you search for a new schools superintendent, I recommend getting back to the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. And while we are at it, let’s focus on regaining our financial independence by asking the state to remove the state monitor.

“I firmly believe that this board would be much better at managing our affairs than unelected bureaucrats.”

Regarding redevelopment, Melham said most of the housing developments under construction were birthed by decisions made in a previous administration.

“Not that I’m shying away

from our economic successes, I’m certainly not,” he said. “After all, our redevelopment team has spared no effort in enhancing the projects passed down to us.”

Elected officials from other communities were present for the event, including North Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti and Councilman Kirk Del Russo.

IKelly seeks second term in Nutley on his ‘Golden Record’

By John V. Kelly III Special to The Observer

am running for re-election to the Nutley Board of Commissioners. It is hard to believe that four years have passed since you, the voters, elected me as the newest and youngest commissioner in the history of the Township of Nutley. I was truly humbled and honored in the trust and faith that you placed in me, and as I said when I was sworn in “public service is a public trust.”

I have dubbed my record for my first term as commissioner

as a “Golden Record” because I truly believe it is worthy of the title. One promise I made to you was that I would cut town spending. Every politician makes that promise, but few deliver on it. I am one of the few who can proudly say that they delivered on that promise, and I did it in the midst of record inflation in terms of costs and after the sunset of the 2% cap while increasing services.

Despite the odds, I was able to cut the Department of Public Affairs Budget by 1.2% over the last three years. I took

office during the height of the pandemic and I was placed in charge of Nutley’s COVID-19

response. It was one of the best responses in the county. Nutley was one of only three towns in the county to have local vaccine clinics.

I am a proud veteran. It was an honor to lead Nutley’s Department of Veterans affairs. Through my leadership, we expanded access to mental health counseling for veterans, we recouped millions of dollars in benefits incorrectly denied to veterans and created new veterans’ focused events such as the Veterans’ Day Ruck March.

Mental health is an important issue, one that disproportionally affects veterans. I sponsored the legislation

to make Nutley a stigma free town to reduce the stigma for those seeking help for mental health. I also strengthened our partnership with a number of mental health counseling organizations, such as Nutley Family Service Bureau, and put on numerous mental health panels for the town and schools.

Addiction is a mental health issue and everyone knows someone who suffered an overdose. That is why I created the Addiction Recovery Resource Center, which offers counseling for those struggling with addiction, resourc-

See KELLY, Page 18

Estate

home inspection is a good idea. Although it isn’t mandatory, it is helpful in getting the best price possible. In addition, some homebuyers feel uncomfortable purchasing a house without seeing a home inspection. While many potential buyers will often hire their own home inspector, it’s still better to be proactive. A pre-sale inspection will give the seller a better idea of any potential problems or defects before they arise during the buyer’s inspection period. Plumbing, electrical, ventilation, appliances, and anything else that will be sold to the buyer are included in the inspection. See for yourself how putting your real estate needs in the hands of a professional can bring your buying or selling transaction to a successful conclusion. The more effort you make to keep your home in pristine condition, the more you’ll increase your chances of attracting serious buyers willing to pay top dollar. And a professional home inspection can pinpoint ways to maximize your home’s potential. And so can we! “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.

Kelly

KPD: Habitual porch pirate stole green street lamps

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

On April 22, Officer Jonathan Dowie was flagged down by a concerned citizen, who observed a regular package thief behaving suspiciously. Dowie located the man, who was riding a bicycle with two large green metal half-cylinders slung over his shoulder. He noticed these cylinders were actually the base for a street lamp, valued for their scrap value.

Dowie detained Mark J. Cowley, 44, of Kearny, with whom he is familiar, as Cowley has been involved in many package thefts and other crimes in the area. Since Harrison Municipal Court had issued two warrants for the arrest of Cowley, each at $1,000, he was arrested.

A search incident to arrest yielded narcotics paraphernalia, for which Cowley was additionally charged. The street lamp bases were inscribed with serial numbers and the location(s) from where they were taken are being determined. In the meantime, Cowley was transported to the Hudson County Jail.

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On March 12, a white 2012 Nissan was burglarized and a 2023 Mercedes Benz was stolen from a Devon Street residence in the early morning. Utilizing surveillance cameras, a communications data warrant, and other inves-

tigative tools, Det. Bryan San Martin was able to determine the actor was none other than repeated car thief, Christian X. Otero, 29, of Harrison.

On May 1, 2024, Det. San Martin issued a warrant for Otero’s arrest and in less than 24-hours, the Harrison Police Department executed the arrest warrant, and brought Otero to the Kearny Police Department for processing (thank you Harrison PD). Otero was remanded to the Hudson County Jail, and is expected to be released soon. His charges included third-degree burglary and theft of a motor vehicle.

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On May 1, Lt. Jay Ward and Officer Anthony Oliveira were patrolling when they observed an individual near BJ’s Wholesale Club who they knew from previous incidents. They were also aware of a $2,500 warrant outstanding for the man’s arrest (Roxbury Court).

Jerry L. Vandermark (alias Frank Crane), 44, of various municipalities, was arrested. During the search incident to arrest, crack cocaine, capped containers and vials, syringes, crack pipes, metal rods and wax heroin folds were discovered. He was charged with possession of Schedule II CDS and possession of drug paraphernalia. Vandermark was transported to Hudson County Jail, awaiting pick up by the Roxbury Police Department.

ALPHONSE PETRACCO

H o n e s t y , I n t e g r i t y & E x p e r i e n c e

T r a n s p a r e n t L e a d e r s h i p :

A l p r i o r i t i z e s o p e n c o m m u n i c a t i o n & a c c o u n t a b i l i t y , e n s u r i n g e v e r y

d e c i s i o n m a d e i s i n t h e b e s t i n t e r e s t o f o u r t o w n s h i p a n d i t s

r e s i d e n t s .

P r o v e n I n t e g r i t y a n d E x p e r i e n c e :

U n d e r A l ' s l e a d e r s h i p , t h e t o w n s h i p o f N u t l e y w a s n a m e d o n e o f N e w

J e r s e y ‘ s T o p 5 0 s a f e s t c o m m u n i t i e s A l h a s a l s o s t r e n g t h e n e d o u r p o l i c e &

f i r e d e p a r t m

WHATCo Shakespeare auditions set for May 8 at theater in Harrison

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Open auditions for Shakespeare productions by the West Hudson Arts & Theater Company and Teaneck New Theater, in association with The Hackensack Performing Arts Center, are upcoming.

Auditions for “Twelfth Night” will be in person Wednesday, May 8 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Theater at the West Hudson Arts & Theater Company, 15 Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard S., Harrison. Free parking is available in a lot on Jersey Street.

Performances will be outdoors at the Hackensack Performing Arts Center, 102 State St., Hackensack, July 10, 17 and 24. Additional encore performances will take place at outdoor venues in West Hudson, with locations to be announced.

Named for the twelfth

night after Christmas, the end of the Christmas season, “Twelfth Night” or “What You Will” (directed by Matt Masiello) plays with love and power. The Countess Olivia, a woman with her own household, attracts Duke (or Count) Orsino. Two other would-be suitors are her pretentious steward, Malvolio, and Sir Andrew Aguecheek. Onto this scene arrive the twins Viola and Sebastian. Caught in a shipwreck, each thinks the other has drowned. Viola disguises herself as a male page and enters Orsino’s service. Orsino sends her as his envoy to Olivia — only to have Olivia fall in love with the messenger. The play complicates, then wonderfully untangles, these relationships. Send an email to shakes@ whatconj.org with questions or for additional information. Visit whatconj.org/event/ twelfthnightauditions for audition materials.

Knights hosting Italian dinner in May

The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus host an Italian Dinner Night Tuesday, May 21, at 6 p.m., at the Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington. On the menu — meatballs, chicken parmigiana, pasta, salad, bread, dessert, refreshments and seconds.

The costs is $25 per adult and $10 for kids aged 6 to 11. Take-out is available. Reservations must be made by calling (201) 988-0183 by Thursday, May 16. The Knights ask those attending to consider donating a non-perishable, non-expired canned good for the Queen of Peace Food Pantry.

Don’t forget to watch The Observer Live! Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter & Twitch. on YouTube, click ‘subscribe’ to be notified whenever we’re on the air.

NEWS BRIEFS

HEP hosting Elvis dinner

Helping Exceptional People (HEP) presents a dinner show with Elvis, an evening of food, fun and entertainment, featuring Anthony Liguori as Elvis, accompanied by the Christian Liguori Band, on Friday, May 31 at 6 p.m., at the Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington. Cost is $40 per adult and $20 for kids aged 6 to 11.

Tickets may be obtained by calling (201) 9880183 by Wednesday, May 29. HEP asks those attending to consider donating a non-perishable, non-expired canned good for the Queen of Peace Food Pantry. More about Anthony Liguori may be found at www.anthonyliguorijr.com/welcome

NA Library sponsors calligraphy workshop

The North Arlington Public Library hosts a free, hands-on calligraphy workshop by Miles Radziwanowski Saturday, May 11, at 1 p.m. Patrons may learn to make beautiful letterforms for gifts, greeting cards, placeholders, etc. Radzewenowski, whose Tiktok is avaiable at www.tiktok.com/@radz.ink, will provide the materials needed to get started.

Space is limited. Sign up at the reference desk.

NFSB hosts Rock Hunger VII next month

Nutley Family Service Bureau’s live music festival Rock Hunger VII returns to the Old Canal Inn Saturday, June 8, 2024. Rock ‘n soul band The Attic returns for its concert.

The four-band lineup includes Nutley natives The Sticky Wickets, punk/new wave cover band Porch Rockers and local band Mother Hubbard.

The event runs from 2 to 6:30 p.m. and is an outdoor show that would be moved inside if it rains.

A cash bar and food service will be available. The event features a 50/50 raffle and tricky tray.

All proceeds benefit NFSB’s food pantry and go directly to offset the tremendous increase in food insecurity in the community and the rising cost of food. The NFSB Food Pantry currently provides food to over 600 people a month.

Sponsorship packages are available. Advance ticket purchase online is recommended because of the limited capacity for this event at www.nutleyfamily.org. Tickets for Rock Hunger VII are $25. The Old Canal Inn is located at 2 E. Passaic Ave., Nutley.

SPORTS & HEALTH

Landy wins 300th game as the coach of Harrison boys volleyball

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

The commemorative volleyball may have said “Coach Landy 300 Wins” but to longtime Harrison coach Nick Landy the more accurate recipient of the milestone was what listed right below the 300 wins “Harrison Blue Tide.”

Because for Landy, who is in his 15th year as head coach and 17th year involved with the program, Thursday’s win over North Arlington, the 300th of his career, is a team accomplishment as much as it is an individual one.

“You look back and it’s amazing,” Landy said. “I always say it’s technically my milestone, but it’s my whole team, all the teams, my coaches.”

Landy remembers a time when he didn’t have those things. Due to the timing of when he got promoted to head coach in 2008, Landy did not have an assistant or a JV coach for that first season when Harrison won just three games.

Despite the initial struggles, Landy, who was an assistant coach the previous two years, saw the program’s potential.

“To be honest, when I first started as an assistant coach, I always thought that we should have been just as successful as the soccer team because we had the same type of kids that were playing with us and we just had to put the time in,” said Landy.

“A year later when Anthony (Sabia) came in, we kind of started to create a program that the kids really bought into. And they started to go to play club (volleyball) and we got the district to add a middle school team.

“Everything just kind of fell into place. I think the kids really loved the sport and they just kept playing and kept winning.”

It didn’t take long for the Blue Tide to become a winner under Landy and Sabia. By 2011, Harrison was in the Hudson County Tournament semifinals and in the discussion for the state’s top 20 rankings.

In 2015, the Blue Tide truly arrived as a state power, going

28-3 and claiming their first ever Hudson County and NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 2 tournament championships with Landy being selected as The Record’s North Jersey Coach of the Year.

The next year, Harrison repeated as county and sectional champs, going 37-5 and going all the way to the Tournament of Champions final. After that season, Landy was named State

Coach of the Year by NJ.com. Harrison, which won its third Hudson County Tournament title in 2023, has won five conference championships under Landy. Individually, the Blue Tide has had six different players earn All-State honors, led by star outside hitter Piotr Namiotko, who was named First Team, All-State in 2016 before starring at NJIT. Nine others also went on to play volleyball in college.

Landy, who has been named NJIC Coach of the Year three seasons in a row, has a career record of 301-142 as Harrison defeated Elmwood Park one day later to improve to 17-3 on the season.

“It’s just amazing,” Landy said. “It’s really amazing how it’s caught on and become a big part of Harrison High School athletics.”

A Harrison High School alum, Landy was the boys basketball head coach for six seasons and served more than 20 years as a football assistant coach for the Blue Tide.

Harrison will look to build upon its already strong volleyball legacy on Friday when it begins its defense of its Hudson County championship. The Blue Tide, seeded first, earned a double-bye to the quarterfinals and will face the Hoboken-Secaucus winner. Kearny, which beat Harrison for the title in 2022, only to fall to the Blue Tide in the 2023 final, is the third seed. The Kardinals (9-5) will face the Bayonne-St. Peter’s Prep winner on Friday.

The semifinals are set for Wednesday, May 15 at the higher seed, while the final is scheduled for Saturday the 18th at County Prep High School in Jersey City.

Photo courtesy of assistant coach Anthony Sabia

Kearny baseball clinches HCIAL National Division title

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Despite a young roster short on experience, a division title was a goal the Kearny baseball team felt was obtainable heading into this season.

“It was definitely something that was on our radar,” head coach Dave Smart said. “We went into this season just really thinking, alright, we got some first year guys playing varsity. Let’s see how far we could take this.”

National Division crown for the Kardinals, who followed it up two days later to improve their record to a perfect 11-0 within the division.

Overall, the Kardinals stand 13-5 heading into this week’s seeding meet for the Hudson County Tournament where they will likely earn its highest seed in years.

The answer proved to be something the program hasn’t achieved in more than two decades - a division title.

Wednesday’s 10-0 victory over Snyder clinched the HCIAL

“We just started getting on a roll and things started working out for us,” said Smart, who also credited the work of assistants Jeff Caputo, Doug Gogal and Armando Diaz. “The pitching started working out for us and the team came together. The boys were

Continued on the next page

DR. SANG W. YOO, will be retiring from his medical practice July 31, 2024. Dr. Yoo has practiced psychiatry in Essex County, New Jersey for 35-years. Currently, Dr. Yoo has a private psychiatric practice in Nutley, New Jersey. While Dr. Yoo is looking forward to retirement, he will miss all the people he worked with and took care of over the years. It is with deep appreciation and sincerity that he wishes all his clients good health and happiness in all their future endeavors.

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We’ve all heard of LASIK surgery, used to reshape the cornea to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. While LASIK is the most common laser eye surgery, it doesn’t work for everyone. People with thin or flat corners may benefit more from LASEK surgery to similarly correct the same eyesight issues. People with advanced refractive errors can try phakic intraocular lenses, which are surgically implanted contact lenses (ICLs). Refractive lens exchange surgery (RLE), a procedure similar to cataract surgery, is a laser-surgery alternative that replaces the lens with an intraocular lens implant. People with thin corneas or those who need a new corneal epithelium (the cornea’s outermost layer) can

P.S. A newer version of photorefractive keratectomy surgery, called trans-PRK, is currently used to remove the epithelium and reshape the cornea in this procedure.

Photo courtesy of Armando Diaz

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

excited about these conference games and they really went after it.”

Leading the way for Kearny has been ace pitcher William McChesney, who is delivering one of the most dominant seasons by a Kardinals hurler in recent memory. The senior, committed to pitch at NJCU, has a microscopic 0.89 ERA with 63 strikeouts in 31.1 innings.

“He’s really grown and we know with him on the mound, we have a shot of beating anybody,” Smart said. “We know that he can come out there and he can give us anywhere from 80 to 100 strong pitches. He’s got command of his pitches and he’s a competitor.”

While McChesney’s rise was anticipated, the quick rise of No. 2 starter Julian Butler was less so. The freshman, however, has

posted a solid 3.75 ERA with 28 strikeouts to nine walks in 28 innings.

“He’s got this confidence. He really does,” Smart said. “He believes in himself, he goes out there and he’s a competition. He’s a little bulldog. He goes out there and brings the fight to you.

“I’m really impressed with him. I think he’s going to be a great asset for us in the future and I can’t wait to see him on the mound more and see him at the shortstop position.”

Junior Jayden Diaz (30 strikeouts in 21.1 innings) is the third starter and senior Anderson De Jesus Melo has emerged as the Kardinals’ top reliever, striking out 14 with a 1.31 ERA in 10.2 innings. Freshmen Brendan More and Alex Santos among others, have provided additional innings and depth.

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Senior catcher Joel Jimenez has been one of Kearny’s most clutch hitters as he’s tied for the team lead in RBI with 16. Victor Hanson serves as the backup catcher and super-utility man. Regardless of position, the senior has hit since his return from injury, batting .429 with eight RBI.

Junior Jonah Menendez (14 runs, 11 RBI, 15 walks) has been the main first baseman. McChesney, the team’s leading hitter at .425 with 16 runs and RBI apiece, also sees times at first, as well as in the outfield and at DH.

Trayton Witt is a two-year starter at second base and Edgar Portes has emerged as the starter at third. Both seniors have

scored 14 runs on the season. Butler (.324 average, 15 runs) starts at shortstop, a position that Smart anticipates him holding down for years to come.

Outfield defense has been a strength for Kearny with Diaz in center field, Ben Wilkins in right, Ben Wilkinson in right and Ismael Diaz in left.

“The three of them cover a lot of ground,” said Smart. “They are three of the faster kids I’ve coached and they communicate so well together. They’re having a ball out there.”

Jayden Diaz, a junior, leads the team in runs (25), stolen bases (28) and walks (21).

Wilkinson, a sophomore, has 21 runs, 13 RBI and 24 stolen bases, and defensively, shifts over to

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center with McChesney going to right when Diaz is on the mound.

Freshman Cayden Janeira has scored 10 runs as a courtesy runner as he and seniors Jean Paul Lena and De Jesus Melo serve as the top reserves off the bench.

Kearny has road games at Becton on May 6 and Newark East Side on the 8th leading up to the start of the Hudson County Tournament where the Kardinals made a surprise run to the quarterfinals last year. Both games will also be critical for power points where Kearny is currently sixth in North Jersey, Section 1, Group 4 and in line for its first home state game since 2016.

Dr. Prakash J. Doshi

Dr. Hector Aguilar

IBy Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

f you recently received a notice about the water quality in Kearny, there’s little need to panic, the town and its Water Department, Veolia, said last week.

“We received a Tier 2 public notice about a recent violation of drinking water standards by our water supplier, the North Jersey District Water Supply Commission,” a statement released by the Town of Kearny said. “The issue was caused by a mechanical error and involved orthophosphate levels not meeting New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s parameters for 16 days during the last monitoring period.”

So does this mean drinking Kearny’s water could be hazardous to one’s health? No, not at all, according the town.

“ … This situation is not an emergency. Lead and copper tests confirm that our water is within safety limits. We’ve responded by implementing additional monitoring at the entry point of our water supply to ensure ongoing compliance with all water quality standards,” a statement said.

Correction

Residents don’t need to take any actions, but at all times, one should run water from 15 to 30 seconds always before using it, especially if water hasn’t been used in a few hours..

The town also suggests using cold water for cooking and for making baby formula as “hot water can dissolve lead more quickly.”

Additional information may be obtained and questions should be directed to Veolia at (201) 955-7406.

A front-page story in last week’s edition imcorrectly listed new Kearny Police Chief Scott Macfie’s wife’s first name. Her first name is Kim.

The Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online. If access to email is not possible, please call us at 201-991-1600.

May 8, 2024

Patricia McCormick

Pat McCormick of Kearny (nee Najuch) died May 1, 2024. She was 82.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny. Her Mass was celebrated at Holy Cross Church in Harrison. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.

Pat was the wife of the late John McCormick. She was the loving mother of Tish McDermott, Cathy Cook and Stephen McCormick. Sister of Ruth Dienamann and the late Stephen and Michael Najuch, she is also survived by her cherished grandchildren Brianna, Cheyenne, Cullen and Madison.

Brian R. Keil

Brian R. Keil died April 30, 2024.

He was 65.

Born in Kearny, he moved to Sparta 28 years ago.

Visiting was at the Armitage Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Cremation was private.

Brian served in the United States Army and was a retired

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OBITUARIES

project manager for NJ Transit in Maplewood. He loved to play pool and fish.

Son of the late Richard and Shelia (Robertson) Keil, he is survived by his wife Karen (Muzzo), his children Danielle Evers, Jackie Generoso, Brian Keil and Kelsey Keil. He was the brother of Richard, Dennis and Christina; also surviving are five grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Jennifer Ann French

Jennifer Ann French Jennifer Ann French of Harrison died peacefully on April 24, 2024.

Jenny was born March 1, 1960, to Thomas and Violetta French. She graduated from

Harrison High School and had a successful career commuting to New York on the PATH train.

Jenny was an avid sports fan. You could always hear her rooting for her Mets, New York Rangers and New York Giants, whether attending games or watching from home.

The most important thing to Jen was family and friends. Everyone knew and loved “Aunt Jen.”.She attended all her nieces’ and nephews’ graduations, parties, sporting events and theater happenings. Jenny also loved to travel. She even flew to London on the Concorde. She loved family trips to national parks, where she hiked and kayaked.

Jenny was also the best “dog mom” to her precious Una.

obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.

Jennifer is survived by her parents Tom and Letty; her siblings and spousesVal and Doug Richardson, Gregory and Kimberly French, Letty Jo and Dan Green, Regina Slattery and Robert and Tammy French; also her many nieces, nephews, sister-in-law, cousins, aunts and uncles and friends.

No service is planned at this time.

Avenue, Harrison

Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221

X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive

whelming, but I do appreciate everything you’ve done and the support that I’ve received from everyone,” the chief said. “There’s too many people to mention

individually, but I want you to know I appreciate you taking the time to see me off in my last walkout. I’ve had a great career — it’s been a very rewarding career — and I was proud to follow in my father’s footsteps (who himself retired one day short of 37 years to the day from him.)

“... Thank you for the job you did (fel-

low officers) to make me look good. I am only one person and I know I would not be successful if I did not have competent officers on the streets doing the job every day.”

King also praised his successor, Macfie, with whom he’s been friends since their days in the late 70s at Roosevelt School.

Then he thanked his family.

“This is a bitter-sweet moment for all of us,” Doyle said. “I am so happy for George King and his family. This is all so well deserved. You have brought professionalism to the department, and you’ve brought kindness and compassion, as well, which isn’t often easy in the job that you have to do.

“She (wife Ruth) tolerated working holidays, missing family events, and without that support you can’t do this job. I can’t say enough about my wife — we are a team. To my boys, George, Sean and William ... I have three good boys I am very proud of.”

Then, after being presented with the last flag to fly over Police HQ on King’s last day in office, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle spoke.

“... I worked with your dad through (Kearny becoming on of the first towns in New Jersey to get) 9-1-1 ... he was a wonderful deputy chief and you filled his shoes. I was happy your mom was able to see you become the chief. That was a real honor for her and your family.”

The day concluded with a prayer from the Rev. Joseph Mancini, pastor of St. Stephen’s Church, and then a reception thrown by PBA No. 21 and its president Mina Ekladious at the Elks on Elm St.

39 Seeley

Deadlines

n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday

n Obituaries:

Photo by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

IHL planning reunion game in the fall

The Independent Hockey League, which has local roots, has announced plans for a 30-year reunion game for all former players.

The league originated in East Newark in 1988 and then, after two years, it league relocated to a larger playing area in Harrison. Former Commissioner Darren Deslonde says there has been positive communication with people reminiscing about the good times the league created and so it made sense to organize a reunion. At its peak, the league had eight teams and more than 100 players competing every Sunday.

Deslonde said: “There was spectacular play, intense rivalries and fierce competition. However, there was never any bad blood between players and teams. When the games ended people shook hands and walked away. So many of us haven’t seen or heard from one another for years and in some cases decades. It’s going to be a fantastic event with lots of laughs, hugs and smiles.”

Deslonde and Charlie Tighe are organizing the reunion, which includes an open invitation to all former IHL players and spectators. The game is set for Oct. 5, 2024 and will take place where the league originated in East Newark. A post-game gathering is part of the planning.

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APARTMENTS FOR RENT

HARRISON/E.NEWARK 3 bedroom apartment 1 Bath, EIK, LR,CA, Back door and use of backyard and deck. 1 parking space No Pets/ No smoking. Utilities Seperate. 15 min walk to PATH. $2,600 plus 1 mth security. Avail June 1st (973)454-3281 Call, Text or leave a message 01W03

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KEARNY Newly construction 4 BR’s. 2 Baths, Open space LR, DR & Kitchen $3200 + 1.5 months security. Separate utilities. Small Pets. Avl. Now. By Appt. only (201)674-1473 01W03

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One bedroom apartment in apartment complex in North Arlington. Great location, close to transportation and stores. $1750.00 per month. Heat and hot water supplied. One month security. One parking space available. Laundry on premises. No smoking, no pets. Single or couple preferred. Call 201-997-2341 between 10:00am - 7:00pm only 52W03

N.ARLINGTON 1 BR, EIK, Bath. $1250 + 1.5 Months security. Utilities included. No Pets/ No Smoking. 1 person. Available Now(201)4288815 01W03

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HARRISON Access to Kitchen & LR. $750 + 1 months security. Utilities included. Female Preferred.Available Now (201)456-2062 &(551)580-6450

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in (Word, Excel, and Outlook)

• Preferably bilingual in English and Spanish.

• Excel in communication and interpersonal skills. Email: info@ jagsonconstruction.com

Phone: 201-991-4105 or 201-401-4525 51W03

Offset Web Pressman

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Full-time

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Shifts available 7-3 & 3-11 Monday – Friday

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DRIVER needed for Newark based wholesale seafood company No CDL required. Must have current NJ Driver license Please Call 973-623-8989

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Shipping Clerk

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Office Manager

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es and information on how to get help and lifesaving training for friends and family.

This new department was described by a public health expert as the model for what can be done at the local level.

I also brought fresh ideas to how the town reaches residents by utilizing social media platforms, creating the first Nutley Public

Affairs App and using QR codes next to town monuments to share our town’s rich history.

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

The Department of Public Affairs hosted a number of women-focused events, particularly during Women’s History Month, that focused on networking, health, mental health and empowering young women by bringing in trailblazing women to speak to them about their accomplishments and challenges achieving them.

On top of this, I made it a point to focus on individuals with special needs. I started a new program called Rise Beyond, which works with the Chamber of Commerce and the Special Needs Community to place people with special needs with employers and jobs that are aligned with their interest to allow them to be contributing members of society and have meaningful employment.

Looking to the future, importantly, we are at a critical point in the town’s redevelopment projects. I bring with me not only my experience as a commissioner, but my skill as an attorney. I am a partner at a large New Jersey law firm, I published scholarly legal articles and I have been honored and received accolades from the New Jersey Law Journal and Best Lawyers.

Keeping an experienced negotiator on the Board of Commissioners is vital at this juncture as the redevelopers and investors would love nothing more than to get one over on the town to maximize their profits.

I bring my wealth of experience and would leverage my skillset to ensure that Nutley’s interests are not only protected but are paramount. Nutley cannot afford a set back by having a new commissioner who needs to learn advanced legal topics and requires “on the job” training.

As election day approaches, please look at my “Golden Record” and consider me for one of your votes.

HCIA SPRING SHREDDING

MAY & JUNE 2024 EVENTS:

Saturday, May 11

Guttenberg

DPW (217 71st Street)

TO BRING: 9AM - 2PM (RAIN OR SHINE)

Hoboken

DPW (1500 Jefferson Street)

Gently Used Reusable Bags, Documents

Saturday, June 1

Jersey City

Lincoln Park (Duncan Ave Parking Lot)

WHAT NOT TO BRING:

Newspapers & Magazines, Binders, Books, Cardboard, Binder Clips

This is a free event. Documents will be commercially shredded safely, privately and properly by trained, licensed and bonded document destruction specialists. Please limit your documents to no more than 40 lbs. Residents may bring documents in whatever type of container they wish. Open to Hudson County residents only. Businesses are not eligible to participate. For further information visit hcia.org or call (201) 324-6222 ext. 3257