e-Newspaper for June 12, 2024

UNDER THE COVER

Fred Esteves wins Democratic nomination for Third Ward council seat, knocking off incumbent Renato da Silva & will face the GOP’s Jorge Santos in November Page 3

The Town of Kearny celebrated Portuguese-American Heritage Month with a recent series of events. Mayor Carol Jean Doyle and the Kearny Town Council hosted a flag-raising ceremony at Bicentennial Park, which drew guests including Portuguese Ambassador Francisco António Duarte Lopes and members of the governing body, among others.

Following the ceremony, the town hosted its first Portugal Day Parade since 1999, from Town Hall to the Portuguese Cultural Association. It featured traditional music and dance performances. See more photos, Page 19.

Photos by Ron Smits/Town of Kearny

7 rd th thru 23

KEARNY EATS! 2024 UNDERWAY AT EATERIES, BAKERIES & CAFES

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

One of Kearny’s most popular annual programs has returned and is in full swing.

Kearny Eats!, the annual concept developed to support Kearny’s restaurants and food businesses, sponsored by the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone, returned June 7 and

runs through June 23. During that time, customers may take advantage of food and beverage deals and special menu items from dozens of participating food businesses — from restaurants to bakeries, to cafes, bars and more.

The KUEZ encourages residents and visitors to support these businesses.

“Eat in, get takeout or deliv-

The Town of Kearny Depar tment of Recreation + KUEZ presents

KEARNY NEWS

ery, call in an order — make a difference and help our local businesses. And while you’re at it you may discover a new favorite spot,” KUEZ Coordinator Linda Kraus D’Isa said.

Participating businesses include Anthony’s Supermar-

ket, Belweder Deli, Brazilian Spices Restaurant & Steakhouse, Curiosity by Intrinsic, Denizen’s, El Ricon Mexicano Restaurant, Hamburgao, Heavenly Bakes Pastry & Bakery, Imagine Cookies by Maya, Jimmy’s Restaurant and Lounge, Memoir Café, Mina’s Café, Natas & Bowls, Nest Café Indoor Playground, Prado’s Cheesesteak

& Tacos, Q’tal Bar & Grill, Smoke Odyssey, Sol Azteca Mexican Restaurant, Stella’s Empanadas & Argentine Grill, Su-Zee’s Corner, the Crepe Escape and Vicente’s Bread Kitchen & Café.

Visit www.kearnyeats.com for a complete list of participants and specials and be certain to check back as deals continue expand.

• “Death Star Stage” – Star Wars Trivia, Costume Parade, Wookie Character Voice-Alike Contest

• “Jedi Junior Training Camp” For ages 7 to 12

• “Light Saber” Balloon Sculpting Booth

• “Galactic” Face Painting Booth

• “Tatooine” Temporary Tattoos

• Special Guest Meet & Greet 8:00 P.M. – Movie Time

Esteves beats da Silva for Dem council nomination, will face GOP’s Santos Nov. 5

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

Fred Esteves won the Democratic nomination for the open Third Ward Council seat in Kearny June 2, beating the man who was appointed to the seat in November against the wishes of Mayor Carol Jean Doyle.

With all districts reporting, Esteves had 341 votes to Renato da Silva’s 282 votes according to the Hudson County Clerk’s Office.

This unofficial tally represents Esteves with 55% of the vote and da Silva with 45% of the votes.

A total of 625 ballots were cast in the ward. Once the results are certified, the never-elected da Silva immediately becomes a lame duck. Though he was appointed to his seat last year against the wishes of Doyle, da Silva will continue to serve in an

appointed capacity until at least Nov. 5, when Esteves will square off against Republican nominee and businessman Jorge Santos.

The winner of that race would take office as soon as that election is certified.

Then, the seat would be up, once again, in 2025, in addition to three other council seats and the mayor’s seat.

Doyle — in addition to Councilmembers Jerry Ficeto and Marytrine DeCastro — supported Esteves in his bid for the nomination, and was their choice to fill the seat that ultimately went to da Silva.

da Silva’s backers included five of the Static Six — Councilmembers George Zapata, Richard Konopka, Dennis Solano, Eileen Eckel and Stat Theodoropoulos — who were all also supporters of the 2023 mayoral contest’s third-place finisher former Councilman Peter P. Santana.

Esteves, second from left, with council supporters Marytrine DeCastro, Jerry Ficeto and Mayor Carol Jean Doyle.

Parts

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

wo major roadways in South Kearny will be closed for about a year for construction work, the NJDOT said last week. Central Avenue northbound and Pennsylvania Avenue eastbound were scheduled to be closed and detoured as of June 7 for approximately a year as the Portway, Fish House Road/Pennsylvania Avenue project advances. At 8 p.m., June 7, the roadways were to be shut down. There will be no direct access to Fish House Road northbound toward Route 7 from either Central Avenue or Pennsylvania Avenue West. Full access will be maintained for Fish House Road southbound and Pennsylvania Avenue East westbound

traffic and for traffic going to the CSX Intermodal Terminal from the north. Access to Pennsylvania Avenue West will only be maintained from Jacobus Avenue.

Central Avenue northbound detour

n Motorists on Central Avenue northbound will be directed to turn left on 3rd Street

n Turn left onto Jacobus Avenue

n Turn left onto 2nd Street

n Turn right onto Central Avenue southbound

n Take the ramp to Routes 1&9 Truck northbound

n Turn left at the traffic signal to stay on Routes 1&9 Truck northbound

n Take the ramp to Route 7 westbound

n Cross the Wittpenn Bridge

n Stay right to take the Fish House Road exit

KPD: Men ram police car,

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

It appears the Manor Section of Kearny may be the target of unscrupulous criminals who have a pretty firm grasp of the law. And it’s no longer a matter of things getting out of control — we’re already there and the hands of police officers are firmly tied thanks to the asinine guidelines being issued from the NJ Office of the Attorney General. Here’s why we say all this.

Here is

After 3 a.m., Thursday, June 6, Sgt. Mike Andrews was patrolling the Manor Section. Unfortunately, police tell us this area has recently been subjected to burglaries and other criminal activity, including a recent home invasion where a family slept as burglars ransacked their home. Lovely isn’t it?

Now, Sgt. Andrews came across a vehicle being operated suspiciously, with the oc-

See KPD, Page 18

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Google Earth - Manor Section in part

OPINION & VIEWPOINTS

COMMENTARY

First

it was cars, now folks have

to be reminded

to lock their homes at night

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

Last week, in Kearny, we saw a few incidents that were headscratching. And police would later learn attempted burglaries were involved. And it was in the Manor Section, no less.

This, of course, is not to suggest the Manor is any better than any other part of the town, but let’s face it, the Manor is hardly known as a hotbed of criminal activity.

But because of all of this, it’s evident — folks are going to have to do better securing their homes.

Last week, I spoke with Police Chief Scott Macfie and a few other retired high-ranking police officials. Several things were clear.

First, many of these burglaries or attempted burglaries are being done by juveniles. Why? It’s simple — gangs and others are using minors to commit crime because they’re keenly aware there is little to no punishment for whatever it is they do. Break into a home at 16? Get caught? The kid will be home in just a few hours.

Next, while some of these crimes are technically “burglaries,” and make no mistake about it, whilst the homes are, indeed burgled, it’s not happening, in many cases, for the kids to steal big TVs, laptops, phones, tablets, jewelry etc. Nope. Instead, when they break in, they’re looking for one thing and one thing only — key fobs — with the intent to steal vehicles.

This beckons to this editorial’s headline — residents have done significantly better locking their vehicles and not leaving fobs or valued items in them. And the criminals are fully aware of this. So now, they’re just breaking into home get those fobs.

Now, while it might seem logical to perhaps keep fobs in bedrooms or on nightstands, the chief recommends keeping them where one normally would — if not, it could lead the criminals to go on a search to find the fobs, and who knows what that could ultimately lead to. Absurd isn’t it? Yet, it’s reality.

There are several ways to protect yourself, your family and your home. In windows with ACs, use a wooden bar to ensure windows cannot be opened. Lock all doors at night and engage alarms. Get motion sensors. And, consider an investment in a fob cover that would make it virtually impossible to start a stolen car.

It’s an abhorrent shame this is what our society has come to, but when we live in a state where the attorney general continues to devise policy to handcuff police, to the point they can’t do their jobs properly, there are no alternatives for now. Of course, there’s a gubernatorial election next year — and perhaps things can finally change for the better once Philip D. Murphy is forced into retirement. Thank goodness for term limits.

To the Editor:

Today (June 4) I went to vote. I received a sample ballot in mail. So I went to Scott’s American club waited my turn and was told to go to another table because they were doing two districts. Well, my district had a Spanish-speaking woman who did not speak English and no interpreter.

Sullivan: At polls, worker didn’t know English, there was no translator and woman had me, a Dem, voting in the GOP primary LETTER TO THE EDITOR

were shown on the screen to vote for. So I voted Republican.

Thing is, I’m a registered Democrat.

She handed me a pink slip to sign so I could vote. So I went along and signed it. When I went into the booth, only Republican nominees

So walking away some lady from other district said they gave me wrong slip to sign by mistake. She was supposed to hand me the white paper instead of pink. Now I understand the unaffiliated thing.

Voting any private anymore. I can only vote for the Democratic side not any Republican. So they screwed up .

So now I’m a believer that the American voting process is half broken.

It gets to confusing just to go vote. The system needs fixing. But probably not in my lifetime.

I’m 62 and disabled and was a federal employee for Postal Service for 30 years.

Donald Sullivan Kearny

Read something in The Observer you agree with? Disagree with? We want to hear from you. Send a letter to editorial@theobserver. com. Keep it to a max of 250 words. Be sure to include a phone number for verification purposes. No anonymous letters, please. Longer letters may be considered for Op-Eds.

Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.

Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster

Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising

Michelle Rybeck advertising@theobserver.com Graphic Artist/Real Estate

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n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday

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HARRISON MIDDLE SCHOOLERS SCORE BIG AT HUDSON LAW DAY ’24

By Karen Cristalli Special to The Observer

The annual Law Day of the Hudson County Vicinage took place on June 6, 2024 at the Brennan Courthouse, Jersey City, where four Harrison students emerged as winners in the Art and Rap categories.

This year’s theme was “Voices of Democracy,” which recognizes that in democracies, the people rule. Esther Suarez, the first Hispanic and female Hudson County prosecutor, gave the keynote address, sharing sentiments about everyone’s ability to contribute to our democracy and our communities.

Jaimy Jimenez, a second-time winner, received the top honor in the seventh-grade art category (after winning an honorable mention award for sixth-grade art in 2023).

Natalia Venegas received honorable mention in the sixth-grade art category.

In the eighth-grade rap category, Safoan Elarquem received an honorable mention, while Jean Zapata came away with the winning lyrics.

Jiminez said of the celebration:

“The topic was very interesting and could be interpreted in multiple ways, so I think it gave artists a wide variety of ideas. I felt that my artwork

Washington Middle School, Harrison, had multiple winners in this year’s Hudson County Law Day competitions. Coordinators Christine Nidowicz and Karen Cristalli, at left, are joined by winners Natalia Venegas and Jaimy Jimenez; Superintendent of Schools Maureen Kroog; winner Jean Zapata; WMS Principal, Kevin Stahl; and eighthgrade Language Arts teacher, Amy Morillo. Photo courtesy of Harrison Public Schools. was creative as I put in a lot of work and thought into it. And the award ceremony was beautiful. I've never seen anything like it.”

Sponsored by the Hudson Vicinage of the Superior Court

in New Jersey, the New Jersey Bar Association and Foundation, and the Hudson County Bar Association and Foundation, the contest is part of Hudson County’s community outreach efforts and commitment to Law Day.

Established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958, Law Day was designated as “a day of national dedication to the principles of government under law.”

Veolia has an unwavering commitment to water quality,operational safety and compliance.

KPD:

Man slapped with 18 MV & criminal charges, is released the very same day

Montanino injured in incident, but fortunately was released from hospital after treatment

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

One Kearny man who was caught with an inordinate amount of pot on him and who was driving without a driver’s license is a fortunate man — he lives in New Jersey. Why is he fortunate you may ask? Well, despite facing a plethora of criminal and motor-vehicle charges — 18 combined in total — once police processed the man, despite having warrants out of several municipal courts, he was back on the streets the same day.

But he was issued new court dates in addition to the ones he’ll have in Kearny and Hudson County.

As always, we have prepared a detailed annual waterquality report. Our Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) shows how your drinking water measured up to state and federal standards last year. In an effort to be environmentally conscious, your annual water quality report is now available online.

Please call 1-800-422-5987

Monday to Friday 8:00am-6:00pm if you prefer a paper report mailed to your home

Please visit our website and enter your zip code to view your water quality report: mywater.veolia.us/water-in-my-area/ water-quality-reports

On June 6, Kearny units got a call about drug sale taking place in a silver Lexus. Before they could respond to the scene, police fielded a second similar call — and the Lex had crashed. Sgt. John Donovan and Patrolman Lawrence Latka and Cort Montanino arrived on Quincy Avenue, where the Lexus had caused a three-car accident.

When officers made contact with the driver, he sized them up, then sprinted off. After all, isn’t that what most suspects do these days anyway? Then, after, the suspect ran into residential yards on Quincy Avenue, at which point Officer Montanino was able to tackle him. The two wrestled for a period of time until the suspect was subdued and handcuffed. Unfortunately, however, Officer Montanino sustained a head injury during the incident. (Fortunately, after being treated in hospital, Montanino was released and is expected to be back to work soon, if not already.)

Raymond E. Collins Jr., 27 of Trenton, was arrested. He declined medical attention and was taken to

KPD HQ.

Earlier, during the foot pursuit, Collins had thrown a black bag containing 25 bags of suspected marijuana, repackaged for distribution (this is still illegal in New Jersey unless done so by a legal dispensary). Collins’s license was also found to be suspended and the Lexus he was driving was found to have no inspection, improperly displayed license plates, and worst of all … no insurance (this, of course, is bad news for the other car owners.)

Collins reportedly displayed signs of impairment, but refused to submit breath samples at headquarters, as required by law. Officers also learned that warrants were outstanding for Collins’s arrest, issued by various courts.

Collins was charged with obstructing the administration of law, resisting arrest, endangering another person, possession w/the intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, DWI, refusal to submit breath samples, abandonment of an MV, no liability insurance on a vehicle, driving on a suspended license, failure to return a suspended license, failure to report an accident, improper display of registration, leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage, failure to have a vehicle inspection, obstruction of a windshield for vision, careless driving and reckless driving.

And, as you’ve no doubt, by now, surmised, Collins was then released from police custody to a family member, having been issued new court dates to Woodbridge, East Windsor, Hudson County Superior and Kearny municipal courts.

Observer Editor Kevin A. Canessa Jr. may be reached at kc@theobserver.com. Follow him on Facebook & Twitter @kevincanessa.

SPORTS & HEALTH

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Track & Field wasn’t even something that Lyndhurst’s Anthony Santana considered before he was cut from the school’s baseball team before his junior season.

A little more than a year later, Santana, who moved to New Jersey from the Dominican Republic seven years ago, is set to compete on the state’s biggest stage for track - the NJSIAA

TO MAKE HISTORY

Several locals prep for MOC

State Meet of Champions. Santana punched his ticket to the MOC during this weekend’s Group 2 Championships at Delsea High School, when he jumped a 22-0 to take fifth place.

The jump was good enough to earn one of the 18 wild card spots in the event for Wednesday’s MOC, which will be held at Pennsauken.

“Last year was really his first year ever doing track and field and he fell in love with it,” head

coach Rich Tuero said. “He did winter track this year and hard work pays off. Look where he is at.”

A week earlier, Santana set a personal best with a jump of 224.5 to take first place in the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 meet. Despite the accomplishment this past weekend, Santana was far from satisfied with his performance.

“He was (ticked) with that fifth place finish and Anthony

never shows emotion,” said Tuero. “To see him (ticked) off, I’m excited. He has a chance to place this week.”

Santana, who recently committed to continue his track career at Felician, won’t be the only Golden Bear heading down to Pennsauken with medal aspirations on Wednesday.

Senior Julia Tozdumon is making her third trip to the MOC in the Girls Long Jump after leaping an 18-0 to take third

place this weekend.

Each of the last two seasons, Tozdumon was inches away from the medal stand, placing ninth at MOC in the Long Jump.

“She’s looking forward to this meet,” Tuero said. “She can definitely medal in this meet and she’s all ready to go.”

Tozdumon ultimately fell less than two inches short of qualifying again in the Girls Triple Jump. While surely disappoint-

Photo courtesy of Terry Iavarone Mercedes Cruz-Fletcher

Photo courtesy of Rich Tuero Anthony Santana

“When

Melham Township of Belleville

Dolaghan, Sardinha play in Phil Simms All-Star Game

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Both Morgan Dolaghan and Rebecca Sardinha have seen firsthand the tremendous growth girls flag football has enjoyed since the sport first came to their respective schools in 2022.

Perhaps the biggest example of that came on Sunday as both were a part of Phil Simms North/South All-Star Girls Flag Football Game, which was held at Kean University.

Led by dynamic Irvington QB Janasia Wilson and a strong defensive effort, the North team rolled to a 37-12 victory over the South in what was the first ever standalone flag football all-star

game in New Jersey.

Last year’s inaugural game was held at halftime of the traditional Phil Simms North/ South Game.

“This is what it should be with the way that the sport’s growing nationwide and especially here in New Jersey.,” said Harrison head coach Dan Nankivell, who also served as a member of the North’s coaching staff. “Last year it was the first time, but this was the first real one. I think we pulled it off, we did pretty well and it will continue to grow from here.”

“It’s crazy (how much it’s grown),” said Dolaghan, Nutley’s standout QB. “I love this sport and I think flag football is going to take off to a new level.”

MACULAR EDEMA: CONDITION OR SYMPTOM?

Macular edema, or swelling of the macula, takes place when blood vessels leak into the macula, causing swelling, which, in turn, causes cloudy or blurry vision. The macula is the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Progressively worsening blurry vision and loss of central vision are the main signs of macular edema, but the condition is often the sign of another eye disease. The most common cause of macular edema is diabetic neuropathy that leads to “diabetic macular edema.” Eye diseases that cause macular edema are age-related macular degeneration, uveitis, retinas pigmentosa, and retinal vein occlusion. Eye surgery to treat a different eye condition and certain medications that treat eye conditions can also cause macular edema.

Your doctor will first listen to your symptoms and take a medical history, such as having diabetes or having recent eye surgery. Next, he or she will measure your visual acuity by having you cover one eye and reading letters on an eye chart. Doctors may also give you a test called an Amsler Grid to see if your vision is become not only blurred but distorted. To schedule an appointment, please call our office at 201-896-0096. Address: 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst; Optical shop: 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.

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“I expect it to be way less competitive than it is now, and in only three years, everything is happening so fast,” said

Sardinha, Harrison’s star edge rusher. “I can’t wait for next year to see how much it grows.”

While most of the game’s

55 selections were seniors, Sardinha was one of the few juniors selected to compete. She quickly showed why, making four sacks on the afternoon. She also made a key fourth down stop early in the second half.

“It’s hard to make this team as a junior and I think her play today speaks volumes as to why she was chosen,” Nankivell said. “She’s an athlete, she’s a player, and on the defensive side of the ball, there’s not many things that can stop her.”

“I love defense,” Sardinha said, who also plays soccer, basketball and softball at Harrison. “My main (identity) playing is defense in every sport that I play.”

Morgan Dolaghan

Photos by Jason Bernstein Rebecca Sardinha

Wednesday, June 12, 2024

OBITUARIES

William F. Kay

William F. Kay, 90, of Brick, formerly of Kearny, died June 5, 2024.

Relatives and friends visitation at

the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral service was celebrated in the funeral home.

Interment was in Arlington Cemetery, Kearny.

Born in Scotland, William moved to Kearny in 1957, and retired to Brick in 2000. He worked as a manager for UPS

for 25 years prior to his retirement 35 years ago.

William cherished time spent with his grandchildren, especially playing soccer.

William was the beloved husband of the-late Jean Kay; loving father of Sandra Walsh and the late William and Johnny Kay. He was the

proud grandfather of Heather, Paul, William, Danielle, Kyle, John and the-late William and adoring great-grandfather of 11. He was also the dear brother of Anne Torrance.

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

Mulligan Funeral Home

331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish

Are you retired or close to retirement and want to plan a memorable trip where every stop along the way has significance? Genealogy tourism, also known as roots tourism, might appeal to you.

WHAT IS IT?

Genealogy tourism involves choosing a holiday location linked to your generational past. For example, you could visit a town or country where your ancestors lived before emigrating to your birthplace. The aim is to admire places where former family members lived to learn more about your origins and yourself.

Genealogy tourism is a chance to discover the home country of your ancestors. It’s also an excel lent opportunity to learn about the experiences of certain relatives who li ved during difficult or historically significant times.

age, genealogy tourism is for you. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when planning your trip to the past. Have you heard of genealogy

HOW TO PLAN A TRIP

Planning a genealogical trip is more complex than planning a traditional holiday. For example, you may need to meet with a local historian or genealogy expert recommended by your hotel. You can also contact a travel agency to create a personalized trip or use a company that develops themed group trips.

If you prefer going on an unforgettable trip rather than sifting through historical documents to discover your herit-

Harrison Flag Football wins NJIC Championship

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

After two straight years of being runners for the NJIC Championship, the Harrison flag football team made sure that it wouldn’t happen a third time and they did it in emphatic fashion.

Instead, the third time proved to be the charm on Tuesday when Harrison blanked Leonia, 24-0, in the NJIC title game at Harrison.

“It was incredible for the girls, after the last two years, getting stalled out in the NJIC

championship game and then being able to finish the job and win one,” Harrison head coach Dan Nankivell said. “Especially for the players like Rebecca (Sardinha) who was on both of those teams year one and year two, they remember what it felt like to lose those games. They weren’t going to let that happen again.”

While several big contributors experienced last year’s final, one who didn’t, freshman Kasandra Rodriguez, who delivered the first explosive play, a 52-yard rushing touchdown to give the Blue Tide a 6-0 first half lead.

Mya De Jesus added to the lead with three touchdowns. The first, a 2-yard run before the end of the opening half. The sophomore later caught a 12-yard TD pass from Hailey Scocco and ran for a 13-yard TD in the second half as she finished with 57 rushing yards on eight carries Scocco was an impact player on the defensive side of the ball with three interceptions while Rebecca Sardinha had eight tackles and two sacks.

As a team, Harrison allowed just 37 yards of total offense as it posted its sixth shutout of the season.

“It was amazing,” Sardinha said about winning the title. “That felt really special.” Harrison’s season came to an end one night later at Clifton High School when it was shutout by Ridgewood, 33-0, in the North Jersey State Flag Football Championship semifinals. While it was a disappointing

PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE

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Some people take antibiotics and still have symptoms. If that happens, you may need to go to the hospital to receive antibiotics through an IV. To schedule an appointment, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B. Our staff of professionals is dedicated to providing you and your family with the finest quality medical care.

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Photo courtesy of Ashley Ceron

ALL-STAR

Continued from Page 10

All spring, Sardinha proved herself to be one of the state’s best defensive players after posting 54 tackles, 24 for loss, and 13 sacks to go with seven passes defended to help lead the Blue Tide to a 9-1-1 record and a NJIC Championship.

While Sardinha has made a

NJIC

Continued from Page 14

ending to a stellar 9-1-1 season, Nankivell is upbeat for next season as virtually the entire roster is set to return for 2025.

“I think the team rallied together and put that behind

TRACK

Continued from Page 9

ed, having fresher legs from only doing one event on Wednesday could prove to be a blessing in disguise as she attempts to get the state MOC Long Jump medal that has eluded her the past two years.

Lyndhurst will be represented in the Girls Triple Jump however as teammate Yasemin Ugurlu earned a wild card spot in the meet.

Ugurlu, a junior, punched her ticket to her second consecutive MOC after jumping a 36-2.25w, which was good for sixth place in the Group 2 meet.

“Yas had made a real name for herself,” said Tuero. “Everyone knows who Yasmin is now.”

The three overall qualifiers is believed to be the largest contingent Lyndhurst is sending to the Meet of Champions in recent memory.

Another Observer-area athlete, poised to make history is Bloomfield’s Mercedes Cruz-Fletcher. This weekend during the Group 4 Championships at Franklin,

name for herself on defense all year long. Dolaghan’s prolific passing numbers were among the best in the state. The senior threw for 22 touchdowns and more than 1,600 yards this season to help lead Nutley to a 7-4 record and a SFC Liberty Division title.

For this game, however, Dolaghan was selected to play as a defensive back, a role she

them,” said Nankivell. “They know for most of them that they have another shot at it.

Next year, for the most part, the entire team comes back.

I’m sure this game was a motivation.”

Wednesday’s flag football semifinal marked the end of team sports for Observer area teams in the 2023-24 academ -

the junior punched her ticket to the MOC in both the Girls 100 Meter Hurdles and the 4x100 Meter Relay. Cruz-Fletcher is believed to be the first Bengals girl to qualify for multiple events in the MOC in more than a decade.

Cruz-Fletcher’s 15.13 in the 100 Meter Hurdles was good for sixth in Group 4 and was just the latest accomplishment in what has been a breakout season.

“She really wanted to get here this year to the Meet of Champions. That was the ultimate goal coming in,” Bloomfield coach Terry Iavarone said. Winning the (Essex) County title and taking second in the (North 1, Group 4) section gave her a lot of confidence.

“If we have good weather (Wednesday), I think that she’s going to break the school record and has a really good chance of getting top eight in the state.”

In the 4x100, Cruz-Fletcher will be joined by Alana Dennis, Angel Cruz-Fletcher and Samayah Wilson. The Bloomfield quartet ran a time of 49.38 this weekend, which was good for eighth in the Group 4 Championships and to earn one of the wild card spots.

quickly took to leading up to and during the game.

“It was not really (an adjustment),” said Dolaghan, who plays soccer and is a thrower on Nutley’s track team.. “I had great coaches back in Nutley that taught us both sides of the ball, so I knew how to play that.”

Next year, Dolaghan will be throwing the javelin at Caldwell University.

ic year.

Two days earlier, Harrison’s boys volleyball team fell one win short of its ultimate goal of a state sectional championship when it was swept by West Caldwell Tech, 25-14, 25-16, in the North Jersey,

Lia Cruz, North Arlington’s standout receiver/safety was also selected for the game, but was unable to play.

Just like their male counterparts, the flag football counterparts spent three days at Kean and participated in several off-field events leading up to Sunday’s game.

It’s just the latest example of how the sport continues to rapidly blossom in term of not

Group 1 final in Harrison.

Senior Anthony Narvaez had eight kills and 14 digs for the Blue Tide as he wrapped a stellar career that saw him win three county championships (the first coming as a sophomore at Kearny).

just size and attention, but in level of play.

“It was a high scoring game with big playmakers on both sides of the ball on both teams,” Nankivell said. “I think that we’re going to continue to see that kind of talent and it’s just going to get better. The more kids are playing, the more people are involved, the better the sport’s going to be.”

Alattim DeLeon, Yamil Espinoza and Frank Barrera added three kills apiece and Jeremy Rivera had 14 digs for Harrison, which ends the season with a record of 26-5 and a second consecutive Hudson County Tournament title.

BELLEVILLE Modern 2 BR Apt. C/A & H/T, Laundry room. 1 parking space. $2,000 +1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Smoking/Pets. Avl. July 1st (201) 463-6684 05W03

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

HARRISON 2nd Floor, 3 BR’s, 1 Bath, EIK, LR $2300 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking Available Now se habla español.(201)667-9279 06W03

HARRISON Newly renovated. 1st & 2nd floor.

2 BR’s. 1.5 Baths. Full kitchen w/new appliances. New wood tiles throughout, LR. DR. $2600 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Large private yard. Washer/Dryer included. Great location, public Trans. Available August 1st or earlier (251) 5096766 06W03

Barbara Gerbasio Real Estate (201) 388-7821 Kearny 748 Devon St. 1 Bedroom apt H/HW supplied $1400 a month Call Chris (201)370-8378 FEE REQUIRED 05W03

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

KEARNY 1st Floor 1 BR, LR, EIK Private entrance, 1 car parking $1600 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Available Now (973)508-4209 04W03

KEARNY 1st floor 3 BR’s, 1 bath, LR, DR & Kitchen $2900 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate Parking for 1 car, No Pets/ Smoking Available July 1st (973)868-3378 06W03

KEARNY Recently renovated 2nd floor apartment for rent in the Arlington section of Kearny 2- bedrooms 1- bathroom, EIK, Large living room, Heat and hot water supplied, No smoking/vaping, No pets, $2,000 + 1 month’s security + first months rent Available July 1st Call or Text 201920-5127 06W03

KEARNY 2nd floor

Newly Renovated 4 bedroom, access to patio, $3100 + 1 .5 months security. separate utilities. no pets/ smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 06W03

N. NEWARK 3rd floor. 2 bedroom, LR, Kitchen. Close to transportation. $1700 + 1 months security Heat included. No Pets. Available July 1st Call between Noon7pm (973)202-5103 05W03

N. ARLINGTON 1st Floor Studio Apartment with separate kitchen in Garden Apt complex. 2nd floor. $1400.00 per month. Heat and hot water included. Laundry on premises. Parking available. No pets, no smoking. Single or couple preferred. Call between 10:00am -7:00pm. 201-997-2341 06W03

KEARNY Separate door, Small kitchen w/utilities. Family room, Share Bath, Laundry room. Single Male preferred $800 month Available Now text (201)9663989 06W03

LYNDHURST 2nd floor

newly renovated 2 BR’s, Open concept EIK, $2700 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking Available now Text for information (551)697-3631 06W03

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

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

KEARNY

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URBAN HUDSON COUNTY AND HUDSON COUNTY CONSORTIUM

FY 2024 ACTION PLAN APPLICATION AVAILABITY NOTICE

AMOUNT OF ANTICIPATED FUNDS AVAILABLE

The County of Hudson is announcing the release of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), and HOME Investment Partnership Program CHDO Operating grant applications for the 2024 Program year. Funds are received annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for local projects that primarily benefit low income persons. Examples of eligible types of projects are: public services, economic development, public facility/infrastructure projects, projects to reduce homelessness in Hudson County. The estimated amount of anticipated funds for the 2024 Program Year (July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025) from HUD for the programs contained in the 2024 Action Plan is below:

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) $2,093,084

APPLICATIONS WILLL BE RELEASED ON JUNE 10, 2024

Who Should Apply?

• Private non-profit organizations that have received 501(c)(3) federal tax exempt status from the U. S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and are registered as a non-profit corporation in the State of New Jersey;

• Nonprofit Developers who will qualify as Community Housing Development Organizations under the HOME Investment Partnership Program

• Public Agencies

• Municipalities within the Hudson Urban County Consortium (East Newark, Guttenberg, Harrison, Kearny, Secaucus, Weehawken and West New York).

• Applicants for CDBG grants must demonstrate that they will primarily serve low and moderate income residents and households of the Hudson County Urban County municipalities of East Newark, Guttenberg, Harrison, Kearny, Secaucus, Weehawken and West New York.

Applications will only be accepted through the SM Apply system. Applicants who are unable to utilize the system must submit a written request for a waiver documenting why they are unable to meet this requirement. Waiver requests must be submitted to George Serio at Gserio@hcnj.us no later than June 19, 2024 at 4:00pm. All applications are due by 4:00pm on June 25, 2024.

Interested parties may access the application directly on the Hudson County Division of Housing and Community Development’s website located at Division Housing and Community Development - Hudson County (hcnj.us), applying directly through SM Apply at https://hudsoncounty.smapply.io/, or by contacting Heather Hanks at hhanks@hcnj.us for CDBG, Naomi Lesnewski at nlesnewski@hcnj.us for ESG, or Asha Bailey, abailey@hcnj.us for HOME.

Hudson County Board of Commissioners

Craig Guy County Executive

Abraham Antun County Administrator

Cheryl Fuller Director, Department of Finance and Administration

John Inagaki

Deputy Director, Department of Finance and Administration

George F. Serio, Jr. Division Chief, Housing and Community Development

KPD

Continued from Page 5

cupants hooded. Of course,

hoodies weren’t

unless, of course, they

for untoward reasons — and they were.

Sgt. Andrews then decided to surveil the vehicle; however, upon noticing police, the vehicle took off at breakneck speeds, dangerously blasting through the residential neighborhood. Sgt. Andrews, suspecting criminal activity, may have been afoot prior to his interdiction, so he attempted to catch up to the vehicle.

POLICE BEAT

The suspects, likely unfamiliar with the area, having probably never been here before, turned onto a dead-end street, leaving them no room to escape. As Sgt. Andrews turned down the same dead end street, he turned on his overhead lights and ordered them suspicious folks to stop.

But not to worry — most criminals are now keenly aware of the Attorney General’s guidelines on motor vehicle pursuits, which effectively allow criminals to simply drive away when ordered by police to stop. (See what we meant earlier now?)

So then Sgt. Andrews positioned his vehicle so as to block in the suspicious vehicle, but they quickly found an apparently ideal solution — the suspects simply rammed the police car out of the way, damaging both vehicles — and drove away.

Why stop, since a pursuit was not authorized by the restrictive guidelines?

So, the suspects were allowed to blissfully go on about their days, without repercussions of any sort — for now, at least.

During a subsequent investigation, it was discovered the suspects were operating a stolen vehicle (the one they rammed into a police car) and, before police interaction, they had been attempting to burglarize a home in the Manor by forcing entry through a home’s windows while the family slept inside.

Video revealed one of the three suspects was in possession of a crow bar. Two windows were found to be damaged, but luckily, the family was spared this potential disaster.

It is believed the home in question was not locked before the residents retired for the night.

Detectives continue to investigate.

KEARNY CELEBRATES PORTUGUESE HERITAGE

Curiosity by Intrinsic 161 Midland Ave. • 201-458-2225

Domingo’s Bakery & Restaurant

292 Kearny Ave. • 201-428-1904

Q’Tal Bar & Grill

3 Kearny Ave. • 201-997-7825

Cantina da Serra 360 Kearny Ave. • 201-518-2707

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

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

LYNDHURST

Bread of Life Bakery 3127 Ditmars Blvd. • 718-606-9300

Town of Kearny photos/Ron Smits

Left photo: The Kearny governing body, dignitaries and residents march in the 2024 Portuguese parade, the first of its kind in town in 25 years. Right, a youngster was one of many to dance at the celebration that honored Portuguese heritage and culture.