e-Newspaper for May 29, 2024

Page 1

DAY

St. Stephen’s will again process about Kearny with the Eucharist to publicly celebrate Feast of Corpus Christi Page 2

NUTLEY’S YOUTH MOVEMENT

kc@theobserver.com

Nutley Town Hall was filled to capacity with family, friends, residents and supporters to witness the swearing-in of the youngest mayor in Nutley history, John V. Kelly III.

The 39-year-old follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, John V. Kelly, who served the township as mayor from 1988 to 1992. The event also marked the reappointment of Nutley Township’s Board of Commissioners, Alphonse Pe-

tracco, Dr. Joseph P. Scarpelli, Mauro G. Tucci and Thomas J. Evans.

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, performed by Zachary Sebek. The Rev. Thomas Nicastro of St. Mary’s Church continued with a prayer over the township and elected officials.

Eleni Pettas, Municipal Clerk, swore in the newly-elected members of the governing body.

As Kelly took the gavel and

See KELLY, Page 19

Longtime Kearny lawyer Larry Brady has died, aged 83

Lawrence Peter “Larry” Brady, known locally for his work with the law firm Doyle & Brady, died May 11, 2024.

He was 83.

Brady was born July 26, 1940 in Jersey City. He attended St. Peter’s Prep and graduated high school at 16;

St. Peter’s College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting at age 20 and Seton Hall Law School, where he received an LLB & JD at 23. He also attended Brooklyn Law School and received an LLM degree.

Larry was always a hard worker, starting in the second grade, delivering the local Jersey City newspaper 6 days a week. He then worked in a

local grocery store throughout high school. When he began college, he worked for four years at the local Woolworth store until graduation.

In 1965 he was admitted to the US District

Brady and Feorenzo

Court as well as the New Jersey Supreme Court. He was admitted to practice before the US Court of Appeals for the 3rd District Court in 1972 and the United States Supreme Court in 1969. He was a member of the American Trial Lawyers from the inception of his legal career, which is now known as

See BRADY, Page 14

BELLEVILLE n BLOOMFIELD n EAST NEWARK n HARRISON n KEARNY n LYNDHURST n NORTH ARLINGTON n NUTLEY Wednesday, 29 May 2024 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXVII, Issue No. 4 MEMORIAL
Followingre-election, JohnV.KellyIII,39, sworn-in as new and youngest-evermayor

ST. STEPHEN’S WILL AGAIN PUBLICLY

Amajor Catholic feast will be celebrated in Kearny and throughout the world this week.

On Sunday, June 2, 2024, Catholics throughout the United States will observe the Solemnity of Corpus Christi (the Body and Blood of Christ). To celebrate this

day, St Stephen’s parish is conducting its annual street procession of the Blessed Sacrament starting at the Church, around 1:15 p.m., immediately following the noon Mass and ending at approximately 2:15 p.m. back at St. Stephen’s.

This year’s procession is particularly meaningful because the Catholic Church in the United States is continuing its three-year National

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Eucharistic Revival initiative. In this phase of the revival, all parishes are encouraged to observe Corpus Christi with a procession with the Blessed Sacrament.

The Corpus Christi procession, traditionally on the feast day, is a public witness of faith and worship of the Most Blessed Sacrament. It’s founded upon the church’s belief Jesus becomes substantially present to us in the Eucharist at Mass.

The Corpus Christi procession is one of a number of ways Catholics express their devotion to Christ. A procession of the Blessed Sacrament involves the priest or deacon carrying the consecrated host in a special container called a “monstrance.”

Parishioners follow singing hymns and praying together.

The annual procession on the feast of Corpus Christi has a special importance and meaning for the pastoral life of the parish and town.

When the Eucharist is carried through the streets in a solemn procession, the parishioners not only will be praying together in a public witness of faith in Jesus Christ’s presence with us but it will also be an opportunity for them to pray for the local community and its needs.

According to the Rev. Joseph Mancini, pastor of St. Stephen’s Church: “We began to celebrate at the parish level the year of Eucharistic Revival on the Solemnity of Corpus Christi last year, on June 11, 2023.”

During this parish year, Father Joe further said: “In order to help parishioners rekindle their relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist, we are holding Eucharistic adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the church every Monday evening. You might ask — ‘Why does Eucharistic adoration matter?’ Eucharistic

Continued on the next page

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 2 Wednesday, May 29, 2024 ANTHONY J. RIPOSTA, ESQ. CORY ANNE CASSIDY, ESQ. (201) 991-0067 www.ripostacassidylaw.com INJURY ATTORNEYS
Contributed photo The Rev. Joseph Mancini, pastor of St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny, raises the mostrance containing the Body of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist last year prior to the parish celebration and procession in honor of the feast of Corpus Christi — or, the Feast of the Body of Christ.

CELEBRATE FEAST OF CORPUS CHRISTI

Continued from previous page

adoration makes sense on the basis of a recognition that the Eucharist is substantially God-with-us, that is the body, blood, soul and divinity of Jesus Christ made present to us in sacred host in the monstrance.

“All of us live busy and, at times, fragmented lives. Eucharistic adoration can be an oasis in this busy-ness of life that reminds us that we are not defined by what we do, how busy we are or whether we are successful or not. Rath-

er, what defines us is the love of the God the Father. When we come to Eucharistic adoration, the throne of God we see is not the heavenly throne yet, but the monstrance which is a real throne. That’s why it is typically covered in gold, or at least very ornate. In the center of the throne is the Lamb of God, Jesus who takes away the sins of the world. How blessed are we who come before this throne.”

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 3 Wednesday, May 29, 2024 Obituaries......................................................................................................................Page 13 Classifieds ............................................................................................................ Pages 16-17 Business Directory.......................................................................................................Page 18 Opinion ............................................................................................................................ Page 6 Sports...............................................................................................................................Page 9 Health & Wellness Directory........................................................................................Page 11 IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION
Contributed photos Parishioners, clergy and others walk through the streets of Kearny along with a public display of the Body of Christ in a monstrance. The 2024 procession through part of Kearny returns early next month — and all are welcome to attend and participate.

NAHS jumps 19 spots into 73rd place in statewide ranking

Earlier this month, information was released on the rankings of all public high schools in New Jersey based on 2022-2023 school performance data. Last year, North Arlington High School jumped 49 spots to break into the Top 100 (92 Overall) for the first time. This year, of the 357 public high schools noted, the school ranked 19 spots

better at 73rd overall: www. datawrapper.de/_/SIUur/.

“The continued progress is a testament to the hard work of our students, parents, teachers, support staff, administration and board,” Superintendent of Schools Stephen Yurchak said. “As stated last year, for as wonderful as it is to learn about this news, there is still work to be done.”

‘Michael

Jackson’ pays visit to Kearny Avenue last week

Well, if you, like The Observer’s Lisa Feorenzo, were

day, May 23, then you

mistaken for the real version were he still alive. Pretty remarkable, isn’t it? Here, a man poses for a selfie, which wasn’t a thing until after 2009.

KEARNY

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Domingo’s Bakery & Restaurant 292 Kearny Ave. • 201-428-1904

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Bread of Life Bakery 783 Kearny Ave. • 201-628-2661

Denizen’s Bistro 202 Kearny Ave. • 201-997-9727

LYNDHURST

ASTORIA, NY

The Observer  www.theobserver.com 4 Wednesday, May 29, 2024 The Dining Directory Want to be part of our directory? Call us today at 201-991-1600 HARRISON / E.NEWARK Pic-Nic 224 Grant Ave. • 973- 481-3646 Spanish Pavillion www.SpanishPavillion.com• 973-485-7750
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Avenue near Midland Avenue around noon, Thurs-
may
person
stunningly looked like Michael Jackson.
course,
could have been
on Kearny
have caught a
who
Of
MJ died June 25, 2009 — but this look-a-like easily
Photo by Lisa Feorenzo
WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM

Harrison first responders, PSE&G drill for potential gas emergency at Red Bull Arena

Harrison first responders are all very well trained. Anyone who lives here is keenly aware of this. But some had a rare chance to train along with PSE&G workers on a potential gas emergency.

The four-hour exercise that took place May 20 allowed PSE&G and local safety professionals to practice keeping the public safe in the event of a heavy natural gas odor outdoors. The exercise, at Red Bull Arena, also provided the opportunity to test incident command and evacuation procedures.

“Safeguarding our communities, customers and employees is our top priority,” Brian Clark, vice president, PSE&G Gas Operations, said.

“These exercises enhance our emergency response and coordination to protect lives effectively.”

Harrison Fire Department

Battalion Chief Joseph Faugno said: “Today’s drill was truly a collaborative effort between the Town of Harrison and PSE&G to ensure our first responders are aware of the potential dangers, and properly trained on how to handle a crisis. Proactive planning like this is essential for safety. These drills aren’t just about practice — they’re about safeguarding our communities and responders. By coordinating with local agencies and conducting realistic scenarios, we enhance our readiness for worst-case situations.”

In 2023, PSE&G responded to 853 calls with excavation damages (736 gas and 117 electric). The utility responds to 99.9% of gas emergency calls within an hour. Many leaks are avoidable, the utility says, with a call to 811 to request a free markout of underground pipes and cables before digging. Digging without knowledge of the location of

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 5 Wednesday, May 29, 2024 jul 8 – aug 9 arts programs performing acting hip hop musical theater summer learn more at njpac.org/summer 3_6_njpac_Arts Ed_Summer Ad_5.8x3 _The Observer.indd 1 3/11/24 12:04 PM Ken Davie “Your Family’s Lawyer” • Family and Municipal Courts • Home and Business Sales & Buys • Wills and Estates • Criminal and Civil Courts Experience • Compassion • Results 507 Frank Rodgers Blvd N. • Harrison (973) 482-4863 kdavieesq@gmail.com West Hudson Law Center new address & phone number!
See DRILL, Page 15

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

OP-ED

Belleville Sons continue to show incredible generosity locally &

nationally

The year-end numbers are in and Belleville Squadron 105 of the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) gave out $34,616 to charity, community programs, endeavors promoting Americanism and projects which benefit veterans over the past year.

“It’s what we do,” Squadron Commander Steve Sangemino said when the final tally was read at the Squadron’s May meeting.

Each year, squadrons throughout the country are required by the national organization to submit Consolidated Squadron Reports, or CSRs. These reports log money donated, projects undertaken and man-hours volunteered from June 1 through the following May 31.

Reports from across the 55 detachments – all of the states plus Latin America, the Philippines, France, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico – are compiled so the American Legion may present a comprehensive accounting of the millions of dollars of donations and volunteer hours when testifying in front of Congress at the annual Washington Conference in February.

The American Legion – and the Sons by extension, as they are a program of the Legion – promotes the “Four Pillars” of the organization, established back in 1919 — Veterans Affairs, Children and Youth, Americanism and National Defense.

The CSR is an account of how each of those four pillars are supported by the individual squadron.

In Belleville, Squadron 105 does a few fundraisers throughout the year to support their projects – and raises thousands of dollars which get put directly back into initiatives here in the community, and throughout New Jersey and the nation. Ranging from the annual picnic in September, to can-shake fundraisers handing out flags in November, the squadron attributes its success to our unbelievably generous Belleville neighbors. They can be counted on each year to donate toys and coats for our toy drives, to donate gift certificates to raffle off at our picnic, to support our Fisher House raffle and to putting

See RUSTY, Page 18

Texas Longhorns 7th-8th-grade rec champs

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The Observer n www.theobserver.com 6 Wednesday, May 29, 2024
39 Seeley Avenue n Kearny, N.J. 07032 n (201) 991-1600 Fax: (201) 991-8941 n www.theobserver.com In
Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016 The Observer on Social Media FACEBOOK.COM/THEOBSERVERNEWSPAPER X.COM/THEOBSERVERNJ INSTAGRAM.COM/THEOBSERVERNEWSPAPER YOUTUBE.COM/THEOBSERVERNJ
Memoriam
he Texas Longhorns seventh- and eight-grade Kearny Recreation basketball team won the 2024 championship. The team was 9-1 on the season. Seen here are, in the bottom row, from left, Caden Justynski, Ryan Milne and Julian Kulesza. In the top row are, from left, coach Will Milne, Zaiden Robinson, Nathan Rivera, Jaoquin Tummenelli, Ryan Robinson and coach Aziz Robinson.

The Kearny High School Visual and Performing Art Department continues to do epic things. Most notably they recently outdid themselves in their art and performances at the Hudson County Teen Art Festival in April and May.

For achieving top honors at the festival, the KHS Concert Band, under the direction of Danny Conde, soloist Brandon Maddatu-Wong and duet Jovan Lire and Paulo Acevedo under the direction of Milagros Gonzalez will be heading to the NJ State Festival on June 5.

And it hardly ended there.

On April 16, the KHS K-Birds, vocal soloist, duets and piano soloist took the stage at the Hudson County Alliance of Teen Arts at NJCU.

“The students did an amazing job,” Kathleen Astrella, the supervisor of the Kearny HS Visual and Performing Arts Department, said. “Under the direction of Ms. Gonzalez, Mr. (Sanjay) Pamaar and Ms. (Stella Marie) Crespo, (they were) accompanied the K-Birds in the Margaret Williams Theatre. Ms. Gonzalez conducted the K-Birds in the Large Group Vocal Ensemble. Although the

OUTSTANDING ARTISTS AT KHS HONORED

K-Birds did not place, their performance was stellar and extremely moving. Mr. Pamaar and Ms. Crespo accompanied the vocal soloists and duets.”

Others received awards: Haley Felix for her solo, Josephine Brizuela and Bolivar Suero for their duet. And Jovan Lire and Paulo Acevedo took top honors for their duet.

Conde’s students, Brandon Maddatu-Wong received a Top Honors Award for his piano solo of “Debussy” and Miguel Pinero won a Judge’s Award for his solo on guitar.

“It was an amazing day for KHS,” Astella said.

A few groups received Judges Awards at the festival on Wednesday, April 17, under the direction of Gonzalez, including the small group for their rendition of “Mama will Provide” and the large group for “When You’re an Addams.”

On Thursday, April 18, Conte’s Kearny High School Concert Band won top honors in large group instrumental. It was the first time since the fruition of the Teen Art Festival that the KHS Concert Band won the award.

Then on Friday, April 19, the Dance Academy, under the direction of Gabrielle Vella, took a Judge’s Award for their dance “Teresa.”

“The dancers were extraordinary,” Astrella said.

Lastly, on Thursday, May 9, the following students received awards for their visual art pieces.

In the Visual Art Award category, the Top Honor went to Agustina Ensal for “Swinging By.” (Chris McShane).

Judges Awards included

Maria J, Chagas Barbosa with “Filters” (Diogo Neto); Cristian Ramos Pereira for “On the Fence” (McShane); Barbara Pereira with “Sugar Skill” (Neto); Maria J. Chagas Barbosa for “Bitter Sweetness” (Neto); Maria J. Chagas Barbosa with “Who am I?” (Neto) and Stefany Argote Gomez for “Bright Sky” (Neto).

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 7 Wednesday, May 29, 2024 Bone Appétit Barkery 169 Midland Ave. • Kearny, NJ • (201) 955-2306 boneappetite@verizon.net PET SALON & BAKERY Certified Professional Dog & Cat Grooming Pet Direct ry TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CALL 201-991-1600. 34 Arlington Ave. • Kearny, NJ (201) 991-4660 • www.moranautotowing.com For the fallen to not be forgotten, we must be their voice. This Memorial Day Remember.

KPD: Man had open container, 12-year-old in car he drove

Not even a man driving with an open container of alcohol in his car with a 12-year-old child in the passenger seat seems to be enough to get this state to throw the book at a criminal defendant. With that said, if this case doesn’t raise your ire, not much likely would.

On May 12, at about 1 a.m., Officer Tom Collins was patrolling when he observed a silver BMW traveling at a high rate of speed. The driver appeared to have difficulty navigating a turn into the Burger King drive-thru as he had to repeatedly reverse and correct his turning course so as to miss the curbs. When the vehicle came to a stop, near Ulta (which was closed), Collins approached to speak to the adult driver, and immediately observed an alcoholic beverage in a cup holder. Tragically, he also observed a 12-yearold child sitting in the passenger seat. Collins says the adult driver also

reeked of alcohol and displayed signs of impairment. Field-sobriety tests were conducted, on which Ibn A. Cuffie, 33, of Irvington, reportedly failed. He was arrested, the vehicle was impounded and officers maintained temporary custody of the child until the 12-year-old’s mother responded to take him.

Cuffie’s license was later found to be suspended. Furthermore, Cuffie was found to have a warrant outstanding for his arrest, issued by the Jersey City Municipal Court, for previously driving while suspended (These days, a valid driver’s license is just a suggestion.)

Cuffie was charged with endangering the welfare of a child, DWI, reckless driving, open container of alcohol in the vehicle, driving while suspended and refusal to submit samples of breath (Alco test). Jersey City did not wish to take custody of Cuffie pursuant to their warrant, and issued a new court date on the “promise” that he appears. He was then released from custody to a

family member.

n In April 2023, a mother reported an adult man was attempting to engage her 15-year-old daughter in sexual activity. The man reportedly invited the child to his residence, then touched the child’s buttocks and attempted to advance the sexual nature of the interaction. Det. Frank West conducted a lengthy investigation, in which he obtained messages from the man to the child. In such messages, the adult attempted to convince her to break her celibacy and to allow him to perform cunnilingus and other acts upon her.

As Det. West gathered evidence, much of which can’t be quoted in a publication, it became clear the adult intended on engaging in sexual activity with the child. So, Det. West issued a warrant for endangering the welfare of a child and assisted the family in protecting the child’s safety. Unfortunately, the suspect did not turn up for court, and was in the wind for some time.

That is, until Lt. Jay Ward and

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Officer Anthony Oliveira observed him driving near Passaic Avenue and Belgrove Drive. The pair initiated a motor vehicle stop and arrested him on the aforementioned warrant. Vincent A. Murray, 24, of Kearny, was processed and ultimately remanded to the Hudson County Jail.

n On May 12, after 10:30 p.m., Officer Brad Salinas conducted an MV stop of a Nissan Altima which was traveling at a dangerously high rate of speed and with a loud exhaust down Kearny Avenue. Shortly thereafter, he learned the driver’s license was suspended.

N Arturo R. Caceda Zavaleta, 46, of Kearny, was arrested for driving while suspended. A search incident to arrest yielded a plastic bag of suspected cocaine. Ultimately, Caceda Zavaleta was charged with possession of cocaine, driving while suspended, failure to return a suspended driver’s license and careless driving. Based on his public-safety assessment score, it was determined that he was to be lodged in the Hudson County Jail.

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SPORTS & HEALTH

Lyndhurst baseball wins sixth in a

Lyndhurst baseball coach Pat Auteri maintained the strong belief that this year’s team would go on a big run even when the Golden Bears struggled with inconsistency during the season’s first three weeks.

Those early struggles feel like a distant memory as there’s not a team in the area, in any sport, playing as well as Lyndhurst going into the Memorial Day weekend.

Thursday’s 4-1 victory over Parsippany in the first round of the NJSIAA North 2, Group 2 tournament was Lyndhurst’s sixth consecutive win and 12th in its last 14 games.

“As coaches we’re preaching to them that we were right there early on,” Auteri said. “If you look at our stats, we were in

every game.

“We said that if these bats could get going a little bit, we could go on a run here. They have just enough to get us on this win streak.”

That’s because Lyndhurst’s pitching has been nothing short of brilliant, allowing just four runs during the current sixgame streak, which included an eye-opening 2-1 win over a previously state ranked DePaul team on May 18.

The pitching staff, considered the team’s strength heading into the season, has been even better than imagined. Senior Anthony Pizzuti has led the way with a 1.83 ERA and 55 strikeouts in 49.2 innings. Michael Rizzo has enjoyed a stellar senior season as well with a 2.15 ERA.

Jack Nowinski, after an injury-plagued junior year, has a 0.78 ERA in 27 innings and has

not allowed an earned run since April 5.

Shawn Bellenger (2.38 ERA) has been solid in spot duty, while Tyler Herman (1.02 ERA, 21 strikeouts in 20.2 innings) has emerged as a relief ace for Lyndhurst.

“We knew coming in that we had guys that had the ability and now they’re really showing it,” said Auteri. “Obviously Anthony and Michael are our one and two and they’re always going to keep you in the game. Jack’s stats are tremendous and he’s a nice No. 3 to have. Shawn’s another kid that’s going to give you innings and we’ve been using Tyler as our closer.

“It’s a nice luxury to have, especially in Group 2 baseball that you have four, five guys that you can depend on.”

In Wednesday’s state tournament opener, Pizzuti went

the distance, striking out seven, while allowing one run, three hits, two walks and a hit batter.

Pizzuti was staked to an early 4-0 lead with Max Gonzalez starting the scoring with a tworun single, followed by a Matteo Morelli two-run single later in the bottom of the first inning.

With the win, Lyndhurst, the fifth seed in North 2, Group 2, advances to the quarterfinals on Wednesday, May 29 where it will take a short trip to face a familiar foe in fourth-seeded Becton. The winner will move on to the semifinals set for Friday, May 31.

Becton edged Lyndhurst, 5-4, back on April 5 in a game that feels like a distant memory with the way the Golden Bears are currently playing as they hope to win their first sectional title since 2013.

“We got through today, so

now it’s a new season again,” Auteri said. “Next week’s a new season, so we’re going to have a little bit of a layoff so let’s stay engaged, let’s work on our hitting because we’re going to see a tough Becton team that beat us when we saw them earlier in the year.

“We know it’s not going to be easy, but we got to hope that one of these days, if we do play our A game, we’re going to be tough to beat.” ••••••••

Lyndhurst is the only Observer-area baseball team still alive in the state tournament. In North 2, Group 1, North Arlington saw its season end in heartbreaking fashion when Roselle Park scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh to defeat the Vikings, 2-1. In North

See LYNDHURST, Page 12

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 9 Wednesday,
2024
May 29,
Photos are courtesy of Michael Rizzo

Joseph Cioffi feels ‘home’ as new AD at North Arlington

For Joseph Cioffi, North Arlington High School felt like home, even after he made the difficult decision to step down as the school’s girls volleyball and boys track coach in hopes of bettering his chances at eventually becoming an athletic director down the road.

Now as the new athletic director at North Arlington, Cioffi feels like he’s back home, even if he never left entirely.

Cioffi, a longtime physical education teacher in the district, became AD on May 10, replacing Joshua Aronowitz who left to take over the same position at Matawan High

School.

“It was a goal of mine to be an athletic director, but also to be the athletic director of North Arlington,” said Cioffi, who has been in the district for more than 15 years, most recently at Veterans Middle School. “I was excited about being here for 15 years. I grew up in Nutley and being here for 15 years, this is my home. I know the town, know the community, know the people in it, the students and everything. It’s a great honor for me to be the AD of North Arlington High School.”

For Cioffi, becoming an athletic director dates back to his days as a student at William Paterson.

Vision loss affects quality of life, which can have a big impact on mental health. Depression is common in people with vision loss, which is linked to feelings of loneliness, social isolation, anxiety, worry, and fear. While vision loss may be out of your control, there are still some things you can do to improve both your mood and eye health. Movement and exercise are proven combatants to low energy, poor mood, and stress. Nutritious whole foods also boost mood and lower the risk for many diseases that cause vision loss. Smoking has been linked to many eye diseases that cause vision loss. Group activities with other limited-eyesight people can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation from sighted people.

People who have vision loss should be screened for depression and anxiety. The sooner these problems are treated, the better their quality of life will be. To schedule an exam, please call 201-896-0096. Our office is located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. We are dedicated to providing a full spectrum of high-quality personalized eye care for your whole family. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.

P.S. While 25 percent of people with vision loss have anxiety or depression, younger adults with vision loss are five times more likely to develop severe anxiety or depression than older adults with vision loss. www.delucavision.com

For the last year-and-a-half Cioffi has been a high school referee for football, basketball, lacrosse and baseball.

According to Cioffi, he felt that experience would help create more connections locally, but also give him a better understanding of how conferences and their athletic directors operate.

Prior to trying his hand

at officiating, spent 14 seasons coaching track at North Arlington and nine coaching volleyball, the last seven as the program’s head coach. While he feels the officiating experience was a valuable one, leaving his players was difficult.

“There have been multiple nights where I’ve had conversations with my wife about possibly going back,” Cioffi said. “But I also knew that to be able to build my resume, I had to take this opportunity to expand my officiating career. I felt it was necessary for me, as a person who wants to be an athletic director, to see this other side besides the coaching aspect.”

Normally, most athletic directors start the job in July so Cioffi’s May start date created a unique situation for him. While that has created some challenges, it’s one that he has embraced early on.

“It is a very unique situation, but the good part about

it is I’m learning how the end of the year works at the high school level,” said Cioffi. “I’m understanding how to run sports awards properly, the senior nights for the spring teams.

“What I’m enjoying is that I’m getting to see some of these seniors for the final six to eight weeks of their high school careers and be able to get to watch a couple of their games. So even though it’s been a unique situation, I’m really happy I came in when I did.”

Despite being one of the smallest schools in Bergen County, North Arlington sponsors 13 different sports. The hiring of Cioffi is one of two significant changes within the Vikings athletic department, the other being the appointment of Ali Beh as head football coach.

We’ll have more on Beh in an upcoming issue of The Observer.

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 10 Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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Lyndhurst’sRizzogetsthejobdoneonthemound,attheplate

Standing at just 5-foot-7 and with a fastball that’s usually in the mid-to-high 70s, Michael Rizzo doesn’t look the part of an ace pitcher. The misconception completely changes though the moment the Lyndhurst senior steps on the mound.

It’s there that Rizzo not only displays the aggressiveness and demeanor of a top level pitcher, the results more than back up his confidence.

“I feel like I do surprise a lot of people when I get on the mound,” said Rizzo. “I’m not the gorgeous guy at sixfoot-four, but I feel like I’m a

bulldog on the mound and I get the job done every time I’m out there.

“I just go up to every pitch and say to myself, ‘I’m better than you. I’m getting you out, you’re not beating me.’ It’s really all a mindset. I love when people chirp at me. I love when they talk to me and say he throws slow. I hear everything and I love it.”

Recently, it’s been Rizzo who’s been getting the last laugh. The right-hander has allowed just two earned runs over his last three startings, picking up wins over Butler, Hasbrouck Heights and, most recently, North Arlington on May 20.

That combined with a recent

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hot streak at the plate makes Rizzo The Observer Athlete of the Week.

For the season, Rizzo sports a stellar 2.15 ERA and a 5-2 record for Lyndhurst heading into Wednesday’s North 2, Group 2 quarterfinal matchup at Becton. In 42.1 innings, he’s allowed just 41 hits and 13 walks with 29 strikeouts.

Auteri views Rizzo as a throwback to an era when pitchers focused more on command and deception rather than pure velocity and radar guns when pitching.

“He doesn’t throw hard, but he can throw three pitches for a strike and he can put the ball where he wants it,” said Auteri.

“He’s the ultimate competitor with his intensity and what he brings to the mound,” head coach Pat Auteri said. “He just gets up, he gets the ball, he gets on the mound, he has that look in his eye and he’s going to beat you.”

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“Everybody wants to see the radar gun, but I think if you can consistently change speeds, keep guys off balanced and hit your spots, you’re going to be an effective pitcher on any level.”

The Observer  www.theobserver.com 11 Wednesday,
May 29, 2024
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LYNDHURST

Continued from Page 9

2, Group 3, Belleville was shutout, 4-0, by perennial state power Cranford, while Nutley was defeated 3-0 against a North Hunterdon team ranked No. 12 in the state. In North 1, Group 4, Kearny was defeated by Passaic Tech, 8-1, and Bloomfield was shutout by

Hackensack, 4-0.

The area’s softball teams faced similar struggles in the first round with Bloomfield, an 11-0 winner over Memorial in North 1, Group 4, the only local winner. The Bengals will travel to Passaic Tech in the quarterfinals on Tuesday.

Also in North 1, Group 4, Kearny was shutout by defending sectional champion Columbia, 10-0. In North 2, Group

1, North Arlington suffered a heart-breaking 7-6 defeat at Hoboken as the potential tying run was thrown out at home for the game’s final out. In North 2, Group 3, Nutley rallied from a three-run deficit to tie the game in the bottom of the sixth, only to see Summit regain the lead in the seventh and win 4-3. Belleville was shut out 10-0 by Warren Hills, while in North 2, Group 2, Harrison was defeated

“Trusted Leadership for A Better Kearny”

CAROL JEAN DOYLE ENDORSES

14-0 by top-seeded and reigning Union County champion Dayton.

In boys volleyball, Harrison, the top seed in North Jersey, Group 1, cruised to a 25-12, 25-17 win over Science Park and will now host Technology on Wednesday. In North Jersey, Group 3, Kearny defeated Watchung Hills, 25-20, 25-22, setting up a quarterfinal match at top-seeded Scotch Plains-Fanwood, ranked No. 2 in the state. Bloomfield swept

North Bergen, 25-18, 25-22 in the North Jersey, Group 4 tournament, setting up a quarterfinal match at top-seeded and No. 5 ranked Bridgewater-Raritan. Also, in North Jersey, Group 1, Lyndhurst dropped a three-set match at Hoboken and North Arlington was swept by defending sectional champion Passaic Charter. Nutley was defeated by West Milford in two sets in North Jersey, Group 2 and Belleville fell to Millburn, in two sets, in North Jersey, Group 3.

ATHLETE

Continued from Page 11

FRED ESTEVES

For Councilman

Dear Kearny Resident,

This primary election is very important to me. As your former long-time Council Member that represented the Third Ward and now as Mayor, I’ve decided to endorse Fred Esteves because he is an experienced candidate and a team player that I can trust. I ask you to support him with your vote on June 4th.

Fred’s 26 years of service to the Town of Kearny includes membership on the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (KUEZ) and the Kearny Planning Board. Fred also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Regular Democratic Organization of Kearny; and is currently endorsed by the Kearny Democratic Committee, and Regular Democratic Organization of Kearny. Fred is committed to making the 3rd Ward a top priority.

I want the residents of Kearny to have a representative with fortitude to handle challenges head-on and works to find solutions to the many complex issues facing the Third Ward, as well as the Town of Kearny. I’m confident that in Fred Esteves you’ll have a representative that possesses all the qualities serving our residents.

Please remember to Vote Esteves on June 4th, 2024!

Sincerely,

Rizzo, who is also a threeyear starter at third base for the Golden Bears, rarely pitched prior to high school. It was as a freshman and with a shortage of arms on the team that he got his first extended time on the mound.

“Growing up, I really didn’t pitch much in little league or with travel all-stars. I really didn’t pitch much growing up until my freshman year when I really just had to throw because we didn’t really have many other people. On the freshman team, I was our number two guy behind (Anthony) Pizzuti and sophomore year, I got thrown into the fire and I feel like I stepped up and realized that I could compete with all these guys on the varsity level.”

In three years, Rizzo has 15 varsity wins and a 2.19 ERA over 153.1 varsity innings.

At the plate, Rizzo is a career .363 hitters, racking up 85 hits,

72 RBI and 47 runs. This year, hitting primarily out of the three spot in the lineup, he is having arguably the best of his career, thanks to improved plate discipline. After drawing just nine walks as a junior, Rizzo has 23 this season, giving him an on-base percentage over .500 to go with a .380 average, 20 runs and 20 RBI.

Rizzo, who has a 4.3 GPA, plans to attend Notre Dame and study finance in the fall, so he knows that this will be his last season of baseball. As he approaches the final days of his playing career, he reminds himself of the words his father, also named Michael, said about this group.

“He’s told me since our freshman year, he’s told this group ‘you guys are going to win the section your senior year. You guys have the talent , you guys are going to do it,’” the young Rizzo said. “To have this opportunity in front of us, it is really surreal. I’m just doing all I can to continue to win these games.”

The Observer  www.theobserver.com 12
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
MAYOR INSTRUCTIONS FOR VOTING 1. The poll worker will insert the blank ballot card to activate the machine. language then press “Start Voting.” Touch the box containing the candidate of your choice; the box will turn GREEN To change your selection, touch the box again and the box will turn white and you may make new selection. in the Personal Choice column, across from the office you wish to writefirst and last name of the person you wish to write-in. Touch “ACCEPT.” Your write-in choice will appear on the ballot. 6. When you have completed your selections, touch the “NEXT: PRINT selections on the window panel to the right, to ensure it represents your To make changes before printing the Ballot Card, touch “RETURN TO BALLOT.” 8. To record your vote touch the “CAST accurately reflects your choices. To change your vote, touch the poll worker will be signaled to assist INSTRUCCIONES PARA VOTAR 1. El trabajador electoral introducirá la tarjeta de En los distritos bilingües, seleccione su idioma preferido luego toca 3. Toque la caja que contiene el candidato lo que significa su selección. Para cambiar su selección, toque la caja otra vez la caja se convierte blanco seleccione la caja de “Escriba aquí” en la última columna Selección Personal quiere escribir. Aparecerá un teclado. Escriba primer nombre appellido opción de voto escrito aparecerá en boleta electoral. 6. Cuandohayacompletadosusselecciones, tarjeta” para ver sus selecciones en el panel de ventana la derecha, para asegurar que representa sus selecciones con precisión. Para hacer cambios antes de imprimir tarjeta de votación toca “Volver la Para registrar su voto toque botón de solo si lo que se muestra con precisión refleja sus selecciones. trabajador electoral sera alertado para asistirle. Democratic/Demócrata Republican/Republicano (VOTE POR UNO) Hudson County Democratic Organization JOSEPH R. BIDEN Jr. Hudson County Democratic Organization 2A TERRISA BUKOVINAC JUSTICE FOR PALESTINE, PERMANENT CEASEFIRE NOW 3A UNCOMMITTED (VOTE POR UNO) People’s Needs First LAWRENCE HAMM Hudson County Democratic Organization 2B ANDY KIM Pro-Democracy Democrats 3B PATRICIA CAMPOS-MEDINA For Member of the House of Representatives (VOTE POR UNO) Hudson County Democratic Organization 1C BILL PASCRELL Jr. Yalla, Change Ahora 2C MOHAMED KHAIRULLAH For Surrogate (VOTE POR UNO) Hudson County Democratic Organization TILO RIVAS (TÉRMINO NO VENCIDO VOTE POR UNO) Kearny Regular Democratic Organization RENATO da SILVA Regular Democratic Organization Kearny 2E FRED R. ESTEVES OFFICE TITLE TÍTULO DE CARGO A Republican/Republicano B Republican/Republicano C Republican/Republicano D Republican/Republicano Personal Choice Selección Personal (VOTE FOR ONE) Selección para Presidente Por Escrito DONALD J. TRUMP For United States Senator (VOTE FOR ONE) 2A 2B 2C Hudson County 2D JUSTIN MURPHY CURTIS BASHAW ALBERT HARSHAW CHRISTINE SERRANO GLASSNER (VOTE FOR ONE) Para Miembro de la Cámara Representantes HECTOR L. CASTILLO BILLY PREMPEH For Surrogate Para Juez Testamentario (VOTE POR UNO) Hudson County Republican Committee Write-In Por Escrito JULIANA LOMBARD E. JUNIOR MALDONADO Clerk of Hudson County/Secretario del Condado de Hudson April 2024 Ciudad de Kearny – Condado de Hudson Boleta de Muestra de la Elección Primaria de junio del 2024 Los centros de votación estarán abiertos desde las 6:00 AM hasta las 8:00 PM ESTA ES UNA MUESTRA DE LA BOLETA OFICIAL QUE SE USARÁ EN LA VOTACIÓN DE LA ELECCIÓN PRIMARIA, EL 4 DE JUNIO DEL 2024 Form 12 KEARNY Town of Kearny County of Hudson Primary Election Sample Ballot June 4, 2024 The polls will be open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM THIS IS SAMPLE OF THE OFFICIAL BALLOT THAT IS TO BE VOTED UPON AT THE PRIMARY ELECTION ON JUNE 4, 2024
VOTE ESTEVES for KEARNY COUNCILMAN
Mayor, Carol Jean Doyle Paid for by Fred Esteves for 3rd Ward Councilman
NOTARY SERVICES MADE EASY AT THE OBSERVER’S KEARNY OFFICE SERVICES OFFERED INCLUDE NOTARIZATION OF: VISIT WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM TO MAKE APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOTARY PUBLIC Lisa M. Feorenzo n Real Estate Transactions n Mortgage Refinancing n Will Preparation n Powers of Attorney n Representation Agreements n Affidavits & Declarations n Notarizations & Authentications Call or email for appointment (201) 991-1600 lisa@theobserver.com Tues-Friday, 10a-2p/other hours by request if possible. Appointment required.

SENIOR CITIZEN LIFE

Getting around without a car: what are your options?

Are you no longer able to drive because of health problems? Has getting behind the wheel become too stressful? Rest assured; this doesn’t mean you have to stay at home. Here are some alternative forms of transportation you may want to consider to help you remain independent.

• Active transportation. Depending on your situation, you may be able to walk or cycle to some of the shops or places you frequent most often. An electric-assist bike is an excellent option.

• Public buses. If your area is well connected, taking the bus is both a practical and economical choice. If you’re not familiar with this mode of transportation, ask someone close to you to help you figure out routes and timetables or to accompany you for a few days while you get your bearings.

• Taxis. Do you have a taxi service where you live? Hiring

a taxi is an excellent way to get where you want to go, practically whenever you want. Bear in mind that some companies allow you to buy pre-paid vouchers to simplify your life.

• Volunteer drivers. Various local organizations have volunteer driver programs, which can take you to appointments or the shopping mall, for ex-

ample. Reservations are usually required.

• Private group transportation. Some organizations, such as seniors’ residences, leisure centres or clubs for older adults, offer free or low-cost group transit services. You can use them to attend local events, for example.

Seven tips to combat insomnia as you age

As you age, various factors can lead to sleep problems. You have a lot going on in your later years, including retirement moving, chronic pain or financial stress due to dwindling income sources. Your biological clock can also go out of sync. If you suffer from insomnia, here are eight tips to help you sleep better:

1. Maintain a routine. Always go to bed and get up at the same time, but don’t stay in bed if you’re not asleep after

20 minutes or so. It may cause your brain to associate lying in bed with being awake.

2. Practice relaxing activities, like reading, yoga, bathing and meditation, before going to bed.

3. Don’t have stimulating drinks like coffee, pop or alcoholic beverages in the evening and don’t drink too much before going to bed.

4. Create an environment that’s conducive to sleep by keeping the temperature cool and blocking out as many light

sources as possible. If necessary, use a sleep mask.

5. Avoid naps after 3 p.m. and limit them to less than 60 minutes.

6. Exercise regularly to generate a healthy level of fatigue.

7. Eat light, easily digestible dinners. Avoid indulging in spicy foods in the evening.

Are you still not getting a good night’s sleep? Don’t hesitate to consult a sleep specialist for personalized advice.

Of course, you can also ask friends and family for help from time to time. If you don’t

feel comfortable asking, try coordinating some of your trips to limit the inconvenience.

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 13 Wednesday, May 29, 2024 Shaw-Buyus Home for Services Mario Teixeria, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757 Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048 Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations. 138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032 (201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible. Mulligan Funeral Home 331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221 Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North 973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ
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BRADY

Continued from Page 1

the American Association for Justice.

He began his legal career as a law clerk in the Hudson County Prosecutor’s office, and upon passing the New Jersey Bar, he immediately was promoted to an Assistant Prosecutor in 1965, and at the time was the youngest prosecutor in the State of New Jersey. He left the prosecutor’s office in 1970, after receiving extensive experience trying cases from assault and battery to robbery and murder. He successfully won numerous convictions while in this position.

Then, he left to start his own law firm with Norman A. Doyle Jr. in Kearny, which continued for over 30 years. His daughter, Melissa Brady, mentored under her father in all positions at Doyle & Brady while receiving her education and ultimately became a partner of the firm until moving out of state.

In 2007, Larry formed a partnership with Kathleen M. Reilly, Brady, Brady & Reilly, where he continued to work

until his retirement in 2017. At that time, Larry became a full-time resident of the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida. The successor firm continues to proudly bear his name.

He was annually nominated by his peers and the judiciary as a New Jersey Super Lawyer, published in New Jersey Monthly Magazine from the inception of the recognition in 1991, until his retirement in 2017. He was also selected as a member of the National Top 100 Trial Lawyers.

In addition to Larry’s extensive and successful legal career, he was also one of the founding incorporators of Growth Bank in Bernardsville, New Jersey.

He was an avid Yankee fan as well as a New Jersey Devils fan where he had seats “on the ice.” He also had New York Giant seats along with New York Jet seats, which he acquired while the Jets were still at Shea Stadium in Flushing, Queens.

Several, including his former partner’s widow, took time to remember their fallen friend.

“Larry Brady was one in a million,” Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, who

was married to Norman Doyle Jr., for many years, said. “Dedicated to his profession, he was a strong advocate for the rights of his clients. A man who followed his true passion, golf. He will be missed by his family and many friends.”

The Observer’s owner Lisa M. Feorenzo also had a strong affection for Brady.

“Larry was a tough cookie but a great friend and supporter of The Observer,” Feorenzo, who knew Brady when she was just in her late teens, said. “Over the years, after he retired, we kept in touch and it was always great when he would come back to visit from Florida. Was he a tough nut to crack? You bet he was. But once you got to know him, he would do anything for you. I will truly miss my dear friend.”

Former Kearny Mayor Leo R. Vartan also paused to remember his long-time friend.

“Larry Brady and I forged a most unusual lifelong friendship. It started in 1969, when I replaced him as the prosecutor in the town of Kearny. In 1970, he left the prosecutor’s office in the county and I replaced him there,”

Vartan said. “So I followed Larry as the prosecutor in Kearny and then the assistant prosecutor in Hudson County. Our friendship was very unlikely. He was an absolute strong, strong ... I would say Kennedy Democrat and I was a Nixon Republican and then later a very strong Reagan Republican and yet it worked, and why did it work? Because we put the R aside and we put the D aside and we both loved the K, the town of Kearny …

“Larry Brady was the finest negligence attorney, was the finest in the history of the town, in my opinion. There’ll never be a better negligence, there’ll never be an attorney for injury, personal injury attorney, ever. We were golfing buddies, we were at Roxiticus, the country club that he loved, and the only thing he loved more than Roxiticus Country Club? Making me and everybody laugh up there and showing me off. He was driving in his white Mercedes convertible with the top down with a big cigar in his mouth, with sunglasses, saying, ‘I am the greatest,’ and, Larry, my dear friend, you were the greatest.”

Brady’s arrangements are private.

The Observer  www.theobserver.com 14 Wednesday, May 29, 2024 The Observer Live!
Join Kevin Canessa every Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. ET on: https://is.gd/obsyt https://is.gd/obsfb https://is.gd/obstw News n Commentary n Sports n Your calls & so much more
DON’T FORGET TO WATCH

DRILL

Continued from Page 5

underground utilities can result in serious injuries, service disruptions and

repairs.

Protocols for responding to a gas leak are different from responding to a fire. For example, the evacuation distance is further for a gas emergency, turning off power may not be possible and automatic generators or solar panels could be potential sources of ignition.

Trainees also included representatives from PSE&G, the Harrison Police Department, Harrison Emergency Medical Services, New Jersey Natural Gas, South Jersey Industries, Con Edison, New Jersey Division of Fire Safety and New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.

This event marked PSE&G’s second gas safety exercise this year, with six more planned.

The utility also offered tips to prevent causing gas leaks or other associated emergencies.

Prevention is key

Call 811 at least three and no more than 10 business days before each job to have underground pipes, conduits, wires and cables located and marked. Markouts remain valid for 45 business days.

Before work begins by excavators, contractors or customers, confirm a call to 811 has been made and the markout was completed. By law, all digging projects require a call to 811.

Property owners and contractors must maintain and respect the marks.

Always hand dig within 2 feet of marked lines or the area known as the Tolerance Zone to find the existing

facility.

Various colors are used when marking lines. Learn what each color represents by visiting www.nj1-call.org/ resources/faqs/#color.

@HARRISON NEWS

What to do if you smell gas

Leave the building as quickly as possible and move 350 feet away from the structure. Take all others with you. If you smell gas outside, move well away from where you suspect the gas is leaking. Call 911 immediately and call PSE&G from outside and away from the building at (800) 880-7734.

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KEARNY 1st floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK, HW floors throughout, laundry included $2200 + 1 months security Utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (917)294-4024 04W03

KEARNY Stewart Ave, 2nd Floor, Spacious LR, EAT-IN-KITCHEN, 3 BR’s, Bath, Off Street Parking, Storage, Backyard, Separate Utilities, No Pets/ Smoking, $2150 + 1.5 MO. Security. Available June 1ST., (908)-7710762 04W03

1st Fl. 1 BR, LR, DR, EIK With yard. Quiet Building. Near Transportation. $1500 + Plus utilities. 1 1/5 months security. No Dogs/Smoking Credit check. Available Now (973)838-1662 51W06

N.ARLINGTON 2 BR’s, EIK, Walk in pantry LR, C/A, baseboard heating. $2300 + 1.5 months security. No Pets/Smoking. Close to NYC Trans Background check Available Now Call John (201)206-9851 02W03

N.ARLINGTON

One bedroom apartment in apartment complex in North Arlington. Great location, close to transportation and stores. $1700.00 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 201-997-2341between 10:00am - 7:00pm only 03W03

N.ARLINGTON Ideal for storage or 1 car $200 month Available Now (201)997-3102 Call After 5PM 04W03

DRIVER needed for Newark based wholesale seafood company No CDL required. Must have current NJ Driver license Please Call 973-623-8989 01W03

CDL Driver Wanted Adult Medical Day Care (Belleville) Part Time/Full Time Driver. Class B and Endorsement P a must Spanish speaking a plus. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM to 4 PM Only. Call 973-751-6000 or Fax resume to 973-751-1190. 518 Washington Ave., Belleville 02W03

Office Wk Setting & Confirming appts outbound calls $18/h 9am-1pm & more hours when when trained. Must be fluent in Spanish. Mature people person enjoys talking on the phone 201-955-0001 for interview 04W03

PART TIME Marketing For 108yr Appliance Co Seeking mature trustworthy to work in field position 3-6PM M-F $19/hr + bonus Canvass assigned area taking surveys no sales must be fluent in Spanish and have car. Call 201-955-0001 04W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

PERSONNEL OFFICER/PERSONNEL TECHNICIAN:

The Town of Kearny is seeking a full-time Personnel Officer/Personnel Technician for approximately 400 full-time municipal employees. Under the direction of the Town Administrator, the Personnel Officer/Personnel Technician is a confidential position responsible for various activities associated with the hiring process for all departments including: recruitment, on-boarding, training, testing, compensation, record keeping and recommendation for hiring; benefits administration, employee communications, conflict resolution, and training, labor/management relations, retirement processing, life insurance administration, and maintaining liaison with the New Jersey Civil Service Commission.

The position is also responsible for oversight of salary and wages in ADP platform, short term disability administration, FMLA/NJFLI notifications, OSHA reporting, and workers compensation tracking. Provides consultation and guidance to all levels of staff and assists supervisors in identifying and resolving employee issues. Candidates should be familiar with New Jersey Civil Service Commission rules and regulations as well as the County and Municipal Personnel System (“CAMPS”). Requirements: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in a related field, at least five (5) years of Human Resources/Personnel experience preferred. The successful candidate should have excellent communication and organization skills; must be experienced in coordinating multiple tasks and meeting deadlines; must be proficient in Microsoft Suite; and other software proficiency a plus.

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Benefits: enrollment in New Jersey Public Employees Retirement System (“PERS”), health benefits, paid holidays, as well as paid sick, vacation and personal time off. To apply please go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ for application.

Closing Date: The position will remain posted until filled.

Qualified candidates should submit application, cover letter, resume and salary requirements to: Stephen D. Marks, Kearny Town Administrator, 402 Kearny Ave. Kearny, N.J. 07032.

The Town of Kearny is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 03W04

THEOBSERVER.COM

TESTIMONIAL

We can’t thank you enough for the overwhelming response we received after placing an Employment/Help Wanted ad in your paper. We were beginning to think there was no hope after placing ads in some of the bigger online job websites. Your paper sent us applicants for the specific jobs we posted. We would like to give a big shout out to The Observer and would recommend them to any business looking for employees. Thank you again.

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 16 Wednesday, May 29, 2024
for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline
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APARTMENTS FOR RENT APARTMENTS FOR RENT KEARNY BELLEVILLE KEARNY GARAGE FOR RENT N. ARLINGTON EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED
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OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

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NEWS BRIEFS

Clothing drive will benefit Little Red School House

The Lyndhurst Historical Society hosts a clothing drive at the Little Red Schoolhouse, 400 Riverside Ave., Lyndhurst, Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Clothing, accessories (hats, belts, handbags, etc.) small toys (two feet or less), stuffed animals, towels, sheets, pillow cases, bikes and strollers are needed.

All proceeds will benefit the preservation of the Little Red Schoolhouse.

NAPL hosts George Washington program

The North Arlington Public Library hosts a program “George Washington, New Jersey, and the Revolutionary War,” by Joel Farkas, Saturday, June 8, at 1 p.m.

Farkas, an army officer and gradu -

ate of Ohio State University, uses the experience he gained as volunteer docent at Washington’s headquarters in Morristown to describe the Garden State’s pivotal role in America’s founding.

Space is limited, and anyone interested is asked to sign up at the Reference Desk.

NAPL giving away gift basket

The Friends of the North Arlington Public Library are sponsoring a July 4 basket giveaway, starting on May 20.

Each one dollar donation buys a chance to win a basket full of patriotic goodies, as well as a gift card to Stop & Shop. The winner will be announced on June 28.

All proceeds will go toward helping the Library serve the community.

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 17 Wednesday, May 29, 2024
The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.
The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising. MASONRY CLEANING SERVICE HANDYMAN EligioHandyManPlus @gmail.com Free estimates •Painting •Special Ceramic Tiles •Bath & Kitchen •Cracked Steps •Cement Water Leaks •Plaster Dry Wall •Carpentry (201)283-7852 03W04 • Concrete • Brick work • Steps • Stone Walls • Tiles • Painting • Sheetrock • Drywall • Plastering ALL types of Masonry For Free Estimates Call Edinson (973) 943-2254 04W06 CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LANDSCAPING & DESIGN Mario LandscapingEsposito’sLLC •Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991 04W04 PEST CONTROL PEST CONTROL Call 973-932-2092 Licensed and Insured 01W06 ROOFING/ SIDING MOVING HALL FOR RENT 03W06 BLUEBIRD CLEANING Treat yourself to professional cleaning. I use my own supplies. Responsible, Reliable and Respectful. Fair prices and great references Call Susan (973) 743-2039 03W06 COPACABANA LANDSCAPING Lawn Maintenance Spring Clean-up top soil & mulch CUSTOM DESIGN Free Estimates & fully Ins. Eder (201) 997-9271 VISA/MC Excepted www.copacabanalandscaping.com 44W27 JR Trucking Moving and Delivery Service Corp We are here to Save You Time & Money Commercial & Residential Free Estimates Ask for Will (973) 477-1848 46W12 B&A ROOFING High quality job at a affordable price Specialize in Shingles, Flat Roofs, New & repair siding,gutters, and windows (201)719-3074 (201)800-2697 FREE ESTIMATES Licensed & Insured 01W06 New + Re-roofing • Flat roofing • Siding • Gutters • Chimney Repair • Window Repairs (973) 343-1167 (800)322-1019 www.erickconstructioninc.net Free estimatesFully insured Lic#13VH04302300 48W52 ROOFING Affordable & Simple Landscaping Spring clean-ups, mowing, Hedge Trim, Mulch, Flower planting & more. Reasonable Rates. Dave 201-286-7224 04W06 A1 Affordable Landscaping * Spring Clean - up *Yard Cleaning * Bush Trimming * Planting *Lawn Maintenance Give us a call for all your Landscaping needs (201)998-1262 04W06 Jean’s grass hedges and tree trimmings On the spot will get it done! Our prices and service will be the best. Senior Discount (201)565-6393 52W06 “Five star contractors“ Brick paver specialist All concrete work. Basements, french drainage system. Blacktop driveways. Power washing. Satisfacción guarantee. Free estimates. (973)979-1167 01W06 CHIPPER TREE LLC ESTABLISHED IN 1987 24-hour emergency service Licensed tree-care operator for North Jersey, specializing in removal of trees, especially in hard-to-reach areas that cranes cannot access. FREE ESTIMATES. CALL (973) 800-0452 OUR SERVICES INCLUDE a Tree Trimming & Pruning a Tree removal a TCIA Member stump grinding a Storm damage a Animal & Drone rescue a Free wood chip delivery a Free log delivery a Crane services a Milling trees into lumber a Transforming lumber into furniture Call us today! (973) 800-0452 YOUR YARD IS OUR GYM! LTCO #935 ELECTRICAL UPSCALE ELECTRIC •Small jobs •Light fixtures •Outlets •Electrical service • Car chargers • Panel upgrade • Trouble shooting & Repair 37 Years Experience (201)926-3259 LIC#15502 52W12 PAINTING & DECORATING Kevin’s affordable home improvements * Painting * Plastering * Sheet Rocking *Carpentry and more. Very neat and clean. Don’t miss out on our low prices and great service. Senior Discount Also light moving. Call (201) 565-6393 References available 04W06 HOME PAINTING •Interior and exterior •Residential/ commercial •Cabinet •Deck •Spackling •Sheetrock •Power wash (862)405-3410 (862)405-3411 xandre.ps@hotmail.com 03W03 A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL Attics, Basements, Yard Cleaning. We Haul or You Can Rent 10-15 Cubic Yard Containers. We Accept Visa/MasterCard (201) 998-1262 03W06 RUBBISH REMOVAL HOME IMPROVEMENT G & R BUILDERS Roofing, Siding, Windows/ Doors, Decks, Gutter Cleaning Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Carpentry FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts (201) 893-0656 Lic. #13VH02536200 03W06 LACA CORP •Paint • Powerwash and more •Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002 28W52

a few dollars in our cans when we stand outside ShopRite. What SAL 105 does is a direct reflection of the community’s kindness and this piece is written so they may see where every dollar they donate goes to do good out in the world.

In breaking down the almost $35,000, $2,824 went to promote Americanism. Examples of projects include purchasing hundreds of dollars of wreaths to lay on veterans’ graves in Belleville and at Doyle Cemetery in Wrightstown on Wreaths Across America

Day in December; and having a “thank you” luncheon for our community’s veterans on Veterans Day – something that became a Commander’s Project in 2019 and has been done ever since.

Other Americanism projects include donations to sponsor students from Belleville to Jersey Boys State, a week-long program exposing high school juniors to the fundamentals of how our democracy works.

Some $3,473 went to community-focused projects at home, such as a $2,273 donation to the Gail’s Angels Foundation, a cancer charity based out of Belleville helping moms with breast cancer

who have special needs kids. An additional $7,451 on top of that went directly back to the post, primarily from the Annual Picnic – which helps fund Post 105 Family’s Essex County programs including temporary financial assistance for local veterans.

Other community projects included handing out food and jackets to the homeless in Newark, and holding three Blood Drives at the Post home.

Also, $5,350 was donated to projects in New Jersey and abroad supporting Veterans Affairs and rehabilitation, perhaps the most important role the American Legion

plays. Major projects of the squadron this year included supporting fundraisers for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), plus a $3,500 donation to the Fisher House Foundation, which builds and operates comfort housing for veterans and their families at VA facilities around the world – a donation made on-site at the Bronx VA in March.

really tries to live out the tagline of “Sons for Kids.”

Much of that money goes to Belleville’s children as well – from supporting Belleville Cheerleaders, to awarding a $500 high school scholarship, to sponsoring a baseball team so kids don’t have to buy uniforms.

Other projects included a donation to Operation Comfort Warrior (OCW) in December as part of our “Season of Giving,” and a $1,000 donation to the Detachment Commander’s Project, which is building an outdoor recreation space for the veteran residents of the Paramus Veterans Home.

But by far the biggest area which SAL 105 supports is Children and Youth, where we funneled a whopping $15,518 by helping our kids.

Between Christmas in July and our December Toy and Coat Drive, to buying cookies from the Girl Scouts for our deployed troops, to a donation to the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, to hosting a picnic recently which netted almost $6,000 for the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA), SAL 105

In the end, Squadron 105 is very proud of what we have accomplished this past year – and over the past few years since we had a “renaissance” at the Sons in 2019. Since that year, after adding up five years of CSRs, Squadron 105 has been responsible for approximately $101,000 in donations to charity.

We also thank Belleville and the surrounding community for their support throughout the year – every dollar that they give goes back out, and truly drives home how much the American Legion is a force for good. We are blessed to have a community of neighbors which support our veterans and children through their boundless generosity, and through this hope we show that we are worthy stewards of their kindness. From the bottom of our hearts, you have our deepest gratitude.

The Observer n www.theobserver.com 18 Wednesday, May 29, 2024
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Wednesday, May 29,

KELLY

Continued from Page 1

his place behind the center desk, he addressed the crowd.

“This journey started way earlier than my announcement for re-election, the campaign and even my election four years ago,” Kelly said. “It started over 39 years ago. My education, my temperament, my wit, my passion and everything of who I am was cultivated and developed by my parents, John and Cindy Kelly.

“It was buoyed by my grandparents, the late former Mayor and Assemblyman John Kelly and Betty, and Benny and Geraldine DeJackmo. There are two more people I want to thank: the first one is God. He’s blessed me with so many blessings in life, such a great family and being born into such a great community. And the second one is my fiance, Sara. She’s been my backbone throughout the campaign and I can’t imagine continuing life without her.”

Kelly continued: “I plan to work with the Board of Education and the rest of the Board of Commissioners to enhance the ‘destination of life’ that is Nutley, for our most valuable resource, our young people. I’ll work with Commissioner Evans to make this destination affordable for everyone. I’ll work with Commissioner Tucci to enhance the cradle of our youths’ athletic dreams and build on the facilities at this destination. I’ll work with Commissioner Scarpelli to enhance our roads so we can safely and smoothly find our way home in this great destination. I’ll work with Commissioner Petracco so everyone can feel safe and welcome in this community. I’ll work with the Public Affairs and Health departments to keep this destination both physically and mentally healthy.

“I’ll work to enhance the quality of life for those with special needs and for our seniors. This country would not be a great country without our veterans, without your love, your sacrifice, and I’ll continue to go to bat for you every day. Most of all, I want to hear from the residents of Nutley on how we can continue to keep Nutley a destination of life. I’m always available for discussion. My door is always open and my ear is always ready to listen. I want to hear from you at any time. Nutley is the destination of life and I’ll keep it that way. Thank you.”

Evans, Tucci, Scarpelli and Petracco were re-elected and appointed to serve as the head of their previous departments. The departmental assignments included the De-

partment of Revenue and Finance (Evans), Director of the Department of Parks and Public Property (Tucci), Department of Public Works (Scarpelli), Department of Public Safety (Petracco) and Kelly as the head of the Department of Public Affairs.

Individually, they shared statements covering a variety of topics concerning the township.

“I will deliver my best ability every day throughout this term,” Evans said. “I look forward to sitting with my fellow commissioners. The challenges we face and we look to this next term are significant. But I’m fortunate in that I think, as a governing body, we have demonstrated what it means to work together to trust one another and to make good decisions for the benefit of the community.”

Said Tucci: “I look forward to continue serving with my fellow commissioners once again. I know today we have some of our Board of Education members in the audience and I just want to reassure them that I — and I’m sure I can speak for the mayor and all the commissioners — will always stand with you. We’ll get through this crisis, we will right this ship. We will do whatever is humanly possible to make sure that our children get the education that they deserve and that our professionals are treated fairly.”

The former mayor, Scarpelli, also chimed in. “Thank you for the honor and privilege of serving the people of Nutley as your mayor for the last two years,” Scarpelli said. “Now we can continue our efforts to preserve parking and beautiful open space and kickstart the revitalization of Franklin Avenue. We have other challenges as well. We have to see how we can be helpful to our school system as we cannot let our students’ education suffer. The overcrowding issue remains and still has to be solved. We have to reinvigorate our downtown and bring the redevelopment of the Ciccolini property to the finish line. I’m very excited about the future of our town.”

And lastly, but certainly not least, it was Petracco. “I want to thank everyone who serves in public safety,” Petracco said. “I have to tell you, the police have a very, very difficult job. They’re out there 24/7, snow, rain, whatever the weather may be, holidays, Christmas. And they do a great job of working with our fire department. I am honored to serve another term in this great township of ours. And I am proud to serve with my mentors and peers here on the Board of Commissioners. Lastly, I want to congratulate Mayor Kelly, whose family has been a Nutley institution for decades.”

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The Observer n www.theobserver.com 19
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