UNDER THE COVER
Maguey brings completely authentic Mexican cuisine at former Centanni site, all at affordable prices. Page 4
SUMMMER SCHOOL FUN
IBy Laura Comppen Special to The Observer
t’s been a busy — and fun — summer in Harrison Public Schools, as many enriching programs were offered to K-12 students, including credit recovery options for students at Washington Middle and Harrison High schools.
The Summer Enrichment Program for grades 1 to 5 was particularly successful, boasting a record number of attendees, teachers and staff, resulting in a plethora of diverse course offerings including language arts and
math instruction and tutoring, a Gifted and Talented program, and English language learning instruction at each elementary grade level.
Students were also able to express their creativity through comprehensive art and music class offerings.
“For our youngest learners, we had the extended school year as well as the kindergarten transition program for those students entering kin-
See SUMMER, Page 18
Will the EPA allow toxic sludge to be de-watered in Harrison?
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The United States Environmental Protection Agency will host a meeting from 6 to 8 p.m., Aug. 27, at Harrison High School to discuss the diamond alkali superfund site in Harrison, at which it is expected to
cover a complete presentation about the superfund and cleanup process at the Passaic River.
According to a report first published on Your Harrison, the EPA plans to establish “a toxic sludge dewatering plant (of dioxin, a by-product of Agent Orange, now located on the bottom of
the river) in a residential community directly across the street from modern luxury apartment buildings in the Town of Harrison.”
Agent Orange, according to the Aspen Institute, is a pesticide that is a “herbicide mixture used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War.
Much of it contained a dangerous chemical contaminant called dioxin. Production of Agent Orange ended in the 1970s and is no longer in use. The dioxin contaminant however continues to have harmful impact today.
See EPA, Page 18
Lyndhurst PD: Arrest made in shoplifting case
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
APaterson man who was identified as a shoplifter in Lyndhurst was finally taken into custody after he got pulled over in Essex County recently, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri, the Lyndhurst Police Department’s public-information said.
According to Auteri:
On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, the Lyndhurst PD investigated a shoplifting that occurred at a business located on the 400 block of Valley Brook Avenue where
a 20-year-old woman reported her purse had been stolen from her shopping carriage. The victim later
Real Estate Let’s Talk
HOUSING MARKET
With the topic of real estate dominating the news the past few years, viewers have heard the words “housing market” more than once. There can be some confusion as to what that means. The housing market is all the properties bought and sold either via a real estate agent or directly from the seller. It is constantly in a state of flux and depends on the law of supply and demand. The success of the housing market depends on factors such as demographics. Larger markets in more popular, soughtafter locations have more consumers, resulting in a higher demand for homes. Interest rates also affect the success of the housing market. Lower rates encourage potential
buyers to leap into home ownership. Timing is an important aspect of just about everything we do. Time to buy or time to sell? Considering making an investment in your future, or contemplating taking advantage of the investment you made years ago when purchasing your first home? When it’s time to make a real estate decision, it’s time to call us, because a dedicated real estate agent can mean the difference between a house lingering on the market and one that sells quickly at a good price, or a house-hunting expedition that lasts a few days versus one that persists for weeks. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”
572 Kearny Avenue • Kearny, NJ 07032
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learned her credit card had be used to make several purchases at stores in the area.
With the help of surveillance video and investigators from the Madison and Wharton police departments, Det. Nick Abruscato was able to identify the suspect as Luis Infantes Reyes, 49, of Paterson. Det. Abruscato promptly issued an arrest warrant for Infantes Reyes.
On Saturday, July 27, Infantes Reyes was stopped while traveling in a motor vehicle registered in
his name by the Millburn Police Department. At that time, they took Infantes Reyes into custody on the outstanding warrant.
Infantes Reyes was subsequently transported to the Lyndhurst Police Department where he was charged with theft, credit card theft, using a stolen credit card, fraudulent use of a credit card and conspiracy before being remanded to the Bergen
County Jail, Hackensack. Infantes Reyes reportedly made almost $600 in charges using the victim’s credit card.
n Using stolen credit card n Fraudulent use of card n Conspiracy The Observer’s office is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please feel free to visit us during our regular hours of operation or call (201) 991-1600.
North Arlington’s Shannon Clancy graduates from United States Naval Academy
Shannon Clancy of North Arlington, seen in photo to the right, successfully completed four years of academic, physical and professional military training, graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a commission as a U.S. Navy Ensign. She is a graduate of Bergen County Technical High School.
At the academy, Clancy was a member of the cross country, indoor and outdoor track teams, a Midshipman
Group Study Program leader, member of the Midshipman Action Group and the Catholic Midshipmen Club.
Clancy graduated with distinction, finishing 39th in a class of 1,040.
Each year, approximately 1,200 students are admitted to the Naval Academy’s incoming class. The academy’s alumni include one president, 29 members of Congress, five governors, 73 Medal of Honor recipients, two Nobel Prize winners, 55 astronauts and 4,000 admirals and generals.
NA Library hosting AI workshop next month
The North Arlington Public Library hosts a program on understanding artificial intelligence by Eddi Khaytman on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 1 p.m. Khaytman will explain the current state of the art in AI and how it works, how it can be used, how it can be misused. He will cover
applications in data analysis, security and business. Khaytman is founder and CEO of Promo Ambitions, a company that uses AI to aid other businesses with marketing and website design. Space at the program is limited. Sign up at the NAPL reference desk.
AT MAGUEY COCINA MEXICANA, YOU’LL
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Afew years ago, following the horrors of COVID, Centanni had to shut its doors forever, and in doing so, it left a culinary gap for the ages. The location at the start of River Road in North Arlington first became another version of Lido, which has been a staple in Hackensack for generations. But for whatever the reasons, it just didn’t work out here in North Arlington.
Enter Marco Torres.
Torres has been in the food business for a long time. And he is a true entrepreneur. He had an idea, though. He wanted to open a restaurant.
“I was looking first in Branchville,” Torres says. “But it just didn’t work out there.”
Then he found out about the open North Arlington location. Lido II had been closed for a while. He liked what he saw there. And a few month ago, he opened what is now known as Maguey Cocina Mexicana, in English, Maguey Mexican Cuisine. Maguey is a plant similar
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to the one that forms tequila for those wondering. (Maguey is pronounced mah-gay.)
What is clear upon entering the completely renovated location is Torres spared no expense to jazz the place up significantly. Some walls were removed. He build a three-story bar in the same spot the old bar was located. He kept some of the existing booths on recommendation of a friend. And each of the tables were custom made with the
name Maguey on them.
The walls have a bright green color mostly. And there are several incredibly beautiful murals painted by an artist he knows. The back party room, which is pretty much soundproof from the rest of the restaurant, is an ideal space for a party, overflow crowds when the place is busy or even for music.
Torres even built a custom DJ
Continued on the next page
The main dining area.
Continued from previous page
booth in one of the room’s corners.
It’s all fallen into place perfectly. But just what is Maguey? What sets it apart from other Mexican restaurants?
Well, for starters, Torres wants something to be very clear — the cuisine is authentic Mexican. But what does that mean? Well, when most think of Mexican, places like Chevys or Taco Bell come to mind. But those kinds of places are Tex-Mex. Or, in other words, they’re restaurants that have been totally Americanized.
Think of all that cheese you love at those kinds of restaurants. Authentic Mexican food isn’t loaded with cheeses. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. And that’s what Torres wants everyone to know. At Maguey, you’ll get exactly what one would get visiting Mexico.
But don’t worry — if you can’t live without that queso, you’ll get it all the same, but it might not be on the menu.
“I believe this place is special just because we are
one of the first, maybe second, Mexican restaurant here in the area,” Torres says. “But what makes us different from the other ones is that we have authentic Mexican food. It’s not Tex-Mex, like everything has cheese, but it’s more authentic. More, our food is more from Puebla, Puebla, Mexico. Also, what differentiates us from them is that we have a bar. We have very good cocktails, drinks, ample kinds of beers, and you know, frozen margaritas, which is the most popular.”
Additionally, Maguey has specials that rotate.
“Let’s say there’s a burrito day, there’s a taco Tuesday day, there’s a chimichanga day. We have a special for every day. There’s a special every day.”
Those specials are listed at the restaurant and given to patrons when they come in for a meal.
Now, so far, Torres says most people come in looking for food that is not authentic Mexican, “Americanized plates, like fajitas, like chimichangas, like burrito bowls,
and my concept here is I’m trying to get them to know the real Mexican food,” Torres says. “The chimichangas are Americanized, burritos are Americanized. You know, burritos are very popular in Tijuana. Very, very popular, but
we see them more Americanized. The burrito bowl, too, that’s more Americanized. We want them to try our mole. Mole is a very good sauce. It’s like 30 ingredients to make that one good sauce.”
Those ingredients all come
from distributors that get them directly from Mexico. It’s not been easy lately, Torres says, because trade with Mexico has seen its share of problems lately. But he finds
See MAGUEY, Page 19
The overflow/party room.
OPINION & VIEWPOINTS
COMMENTARY
Once again, that little council stunt last week backfires, just like always
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Every January, a calendar of Kearny Town Council meetings gets published. And, as has been tradition for decades, in July and August, the council meets one time only in those months, as opposed to the two times they meet in the other 10 months of the year.
And it is that simple reality that absolutely blows the mind that last week, five of the sitting members of the council crapped out of attending and thus, making a quorum impossible.
First, one of the five had a valid reason for not attending — Councilman Dennis Solano. He says he was exposed to an illness, and he made a responsible decision not to expose anyone else. We applaud him for that.
Councilman Rich Konopka informed Mayor Carol Jean Doyle some days earlier he couldn’t make it, which, of course, is better than telling her the day of the meeting.
Councilmen Stathis Theodoropoulos and Renato daSilva texted Doyle the day of the meeting to say they couldn’t make the meeting. That’s right, the day of the meeting, these two suddenly had commitments that were entirely more important than going to the only meeting of August. Think about that for a second.
And then there’s Council President Eileen Eckel, who missed the meeting because she was “on vacation.” The retired Eckel, who likely was aware of the August meeting date, knowing there is but one meeting the entire month, scheduled a vacation knowing it would cause her to be absent from the meeting.
She’s made some absurd missteps lately, but this one takes the proverbial cake. She can claim all she wants the vacation was planned well in advance, but so, too, is the council meeting schedule — and to take a vacation at the same time isn’t just bad, it’s downright irresponsible and a dereliction of her duties as an elected official.
What’s clear is this was a power play, one designed to embarrass Doyle. But like every other instance of their ploys, they’ve all backfired. Remember when they tried to remove Doyle last year from the county committee? Or their diatribe of a letter two weeks ago? The public backlash has been universal, and yet they still pull these inane stunts. But remember, our memories don’t falter at times like these. Their re-elections may be a year or two away. But when that time comes, we’ll be sure to remind everyone of their epic stunt fails.
And you shouldn’t forget it either. Only Solano gets a pass here. The other four? It’s not even close.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Fleischman: Was Kearny Council president attempting to silence Observer editor?
To the Editor:
I’m writing concerning the letter to the editor signed by the Kearny Council President and (several) councilmembers published last week. Although I am not a resident of Kearny, as an editor, blogger and civic activist in my own town (Belleville), I take umbrage at the council’s letter.
Isn’t it amazing how a governing body can simply come together to grandstand over what you said at a meeting — not as editor of The Observer, but as a private citizen? Imagine how well the residents of Kearny would
be served by having such “harmony” on the council when conducting public business!
The fact that they came together to create a hullabalo over nothing should show all of Kearny the true character of their elected officials.
That (some on) the Kearny Town Council tried to conflate your life as a private citizen with your position as editor of The Observer was deplorable. But if they want to play that game, it wouldn’t be a leap to believe that their action of signing this letter to the editor could be construed as an attempt to intimidate
into silence a private citizen. They theoretically have the full force of local government behind them!
These days, a citizen brave enough to stand up and speak at a public meeting is rare. While you publicly expressed regret over how you expressed yourself, you were standing up for what you believed was right. It’s a shame that (that faction of) the Kearny Town Council spent time and energy decrying something so essential to government of, by and for the people.
Frank F. Fleischman III Editor | Belleville Watch www.bellevillewatch.com
Paz: Thank you for supporting KPSUE
To the Editor:
I am writing on behalf of KNJ PS Uniform Exchange to express our deepest grati-
Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
tude for the recent article published on July 31, 2024, titled “Kearny Public School Uniform Exchange Has Plenty
to Give Away, But Still Needs Donations & Volunteers.”
Your thoughtful coverage
See PAZ, Page 12
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster Michelle Rybeck advertising@theobserver.com Graphic Artist/Real Estate
DEADLINES
n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday
n Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday
n Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday
n Help Wanted: noon, Monday — all ads must be sent to classified@theobserver.com.
Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com Sports Writer
Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager
Kimberley Pezzolla kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sales/Classifieds
Kearny’s annual Junior Police Academy comes to a successful close
Thursday, August 15 @ 5PM
Kearny’s annual Junior Police Academy recently came to a close with a graduation ceremony, with the cadets seen left, at Kearny High School. At the ceremony were dignitaries, in the photo at right, including Officer Jordan Miranda, PBA President Mina Ekladious, Councilman Jerry Ficeto, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, Police Chief Scott Macfie, Officer Vanessa Sevillano, Sgt. Mike Gonzalez, Deputy Chief Paul Bershefski, Officer Cort Montanino and Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro. We’ll have a full JPA recap soon in The Observer.
Photos courtesy of Mayor Carol Jean Doyle
Bergen County offers tips to limit mosquito infestation
As it is the height of mosquito season, this is a friendly reminder to encourage residents to do what they can to help limit the mosquito population.
Prevent mosquito breeding sites by doing the following at least once a week:
n Empty, clean, turn over and/or dispose of containers that can hold water, such as
tires, buckets, and flower pots
n Clean drains and gutters.
n Keep swimming pools/ ponds adequately treated with recommended products to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
n Use screens on open windows and keep doors closed.
n Use an EPA registered insect repellent.
The Observer’s correction policy
The Observer strives to bring readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously.
So, if you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online.
New to the force following academy
Four new Kearny police officers graduated from the police academy on Friday, Aug. 9. Seen after the ceremony are, from left, Councilman Jerry Ficeto, Chief Scott Macfie, new Police Officers Jamier Kerr Alyssa Matos, Susanna De Jesus and Andrew Mauricio, Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro, Kearny Business Administrator Steve Marks and Deputy Chief Paul Bershefski.
Photo courtesy of Mike Gontarczuk & Scott Macfie
SPORTS & HEALTH
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Kearny soccer has been a part of Scott Millar’s life before he was even old enough to kick a soccer ball. Now he’s set to take over as the head coach of a program that has meant so much to him and so many other families in the Kearny area.
After a successful playing career and more than 15 years of coaching within the high school program, was formally approved by the Board of Education in June to be the new boys soccer head coach at Kearny.
Millar, becomes just the third man to host the Kardinals head job in 50 years, following in the footsteps of his father John (1974-2005) and Billy Galka (2006-2023), who Scott Millar worked with for the past 15 seasons, the last six as the top varsity assistant.
“I grew up in the game and I grew up specifically in this environment, so on that level it certainly means a lot,” Scott Millar said. “In terms of high school athletics, I would probably rank it as one of the top 10 jobs in the state, if not the country. I’m definitely fortunate enough to be in this position right now and be the caretaker of the program at the moment.”
Millar said that becoming the head coach at Kearny was not a specific goal for himself, but perhaps no one is better aware of what the job entails. As a child, he remembers seeing practice plans drawn up on the kitchen table and stacks of VHS tapes for scouting opponents.
“It’s not a three or four month a year job (at Kearny), it’s a 24-hour a day, 365 days a year job,” said Millar. “I saw it at 6 years old, I saw it at 10
BACK TO THE FUTURE
Scott Millar, son of former coach John, takes over KHS soccer program following retirement of Bill Galka
years old and I saw it when I was a player at 17, the amount of prep work that goes into planning sessions and putting our teams in the best possible chance to be successful. There’s no doubt that Billy continued with that model and the amount of time, energy, effort that we all put into that from Billy down through our freshman coaches.”
Head coach of the freshman team was where Scott Millar,
got his start into high school coaching after a playing career that saw him being named a First Team, All-State player before moving on to Virginia Commonwealth University.
In the middle of 2019, Millar was promoted to varsity assistant coach when the prior assistant, Jimmy Hempel, had to step down after being named an assistant principal at Lincoln Middle School.
“The opportunity to step in and coach the freshman team probably got me into education,” Millar, a math teacher at Lincoln Middle School said. “From there, I was happy to support the program in any way I could, whether that was coaching the freshman team, whether that was just coming down and being a fan, being a supporter. I was very happy working with Billy and I tremendously enjoyed our
time together.”
During the five decades under John Millar and Galka, Kearny won 11 Group 4 state championships, 23 state sectional titles and countless division titles, while experiencing tremendous consistency and continuity.
With such a history of success, including a trip to the Group 4 state final this past fall, Millar knows that a lot will remain the same.
“There’s no doubt that over the years we’ve all taken quite a bit from the people that come before us and put our own individual spin on it,” said Scott Millar. “Billy did the same when he took over from my father. I’m going to take pieces from both of them and continue with many of the same things that we like to do. We all have very similar mindsets, but at the same time, we’re going to put our own individual spin on it as we go.”
Continuing in that continuity, the entire coaching staff from last year is back. Andrew Gray, who for more than two decades has been the program’s JV coach, moves up to varsity assistant, with John Millar maintaining his role as a volunteer coach with an emphasis on working with the goalkeepers.
Anthony Policano moves from freshman coach to JV coach and Jose Escandon, the 2017 NJ.com State Player of the Year, is the new freshman coach.
Escandon becomes the latest example of a Kearny player becoming a coach.
Scott Millar estimates that there’s only two examples in the last 40 years of a coach in the program not being a former player at Kearny.
Photo courtesy of Kim DeJianne
JBy Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
amie Guedes figured there was nothing to lose this past winter when she filled out the application and submitted the tryout video for the 2024 Global Dance & Cheer Games even if she didn’t expect anything to come of it.
Instead, Guedes and the members of the KGC Cheerleading Senior Black Team got a true experience of a lifetime. That initial submission earned KGC a spot in the coveted event, which took place this May in Honolulu. Once
international competition.
“We were talking about (the possibility), but nobody got their hopes up because it was a far-fetched chance that we would get a spot,” said Guedes, who co-founded the program 17 years ago and coaches the Senior Black team with Leah Pereira. “We didn’t think anything of it. It was just a free entry, free to submit the video. So we were like why not? See what happens. I got the kids’ reaction on video (when we told them we were going) and they were all so shocked.
“We were all shocked up until the day we got there. It was
there, KGC took second place in the Open Division in the
ULCERATIVE COLITIS
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers to develop in the inner lining of the digestive tract. It is characterized by periods of flareups and remission, with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and fatigue. The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is not known, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. The severity and extent of inflammation can vary, ranging from mild to severe, and complications may include bowel perforation or an increased risk of colon cancer. Management of ulcerative colitis typically involves medication to control inflammation, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, surgical interventions.
Endoscopic procedures with tissue biopsy are the only way to definitively diagnose ulcerative colitis. Other types of tests can help rule out complications or other forms of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease. White people have the highest risk of the disease, but can occur in any race. If you’re of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, your risk is even higher. 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.
P.S. Although people of all ages can be affected by ulcerative colitis, it is usually diagnosed between the age of 15 and 40.
Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
Dr. Hector Aguilar
Photo courtesy of Jamie Guedes
Veteran basketball coach Corsetto returns at Kearny Christian
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Rich Corsetto will be 78 in November and has been coaching basketball for more than five decades. And he’s not ready to retire.
Corsetto, who has won 748 games between high school and college, is once again returning to coach locally after being named the new head boys basketball coach at Kearny Christian Academy.
“I had no intentions of really retiring,” said Corsetto, who has been watching his grandkids play since his last coaching role at Bronx Community College. “I’ve been around a long time. I still decided that I want to work with kids and this came about, so I decided to take it.”
Corsetto admits there was some skepticism about the decision to return, but ultimately has the support to return to coaching from his wife Doreen and the rest of his family.
“They questioned it a little bit, but I’ve always had the support from my family,” Corsetto
said. “My wife is my biggest supporter and she just asked me if I thought I was ready to go back and this and that because kids are different today. I said, ‘yeah, I’m ready to give it a shot.’ So I’m giving it a shot and seeing what happens.”
Corsetto’s coaching career began at Passaic Tech in 1972, where he led the team to a Passaic County championship. From there, he spent three seasons at the since-closed Neumann Prep in Wayne and extended run in college at Hudson County Community College and Passaic County Community College.
In 2013, Corsetto, after a three-year absence from coaching, returned to the high school level as the head coach at North Arlington. Corsetto’s four seasons at North Arlington were some of the most successful the program has enjoyed in recent memory, as under Corsetto, the Vikings went 66-33, highlighted by a pair of 20-plus win seasons.
For his career, Corsetto has a 302-115 record on the high
Kearny Christian is not a NJSIAA member school, instead playing in the Metro Christian Athletic Association, a league that also includes Abundant Life of Nutley.
Last season, Kearny Christian only played an abbreviated 13-game season.
“I’ve had a lot of challenges, many over the years. This is a little different because they didn’t really play a full schedule,” said Corsetto. “I’m going to (have a full schedule) now. I’m going about trying to build the program. There’s six or seven kids coming back, plus some kids coming in as freshmen, so we should be respectable.
“There’s some talent there
and they’re very nice, hard working kids. I’m just looking to build.”
In addition to some summer workouts with his players, Corsetto has also brought in one of his longtime assistants Macello D’Andrea with him.
While it remains to be seen what type of build up Corsetto can bring at Kearny Christian, this latest challenge provides him the opportunity to end his storied career on his own terms.
“I want to just end it when I want to end it. I may do this till I’m 90,” Corsetto said with a laugh. “I’m going to just do it until I can’t get there anymore.”
school level
While Corsetto has embraced challenges, Kearny Christian represents perhaps the greatest of his career.
While age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is caused by normal aging and deterioration of the macula, there are two types of medications that have been associated with AMD. These medications do not cause AMD, but they can increase your risk or make the condition worse if you already have it. Research suggests that long-term use of certain types of blood pressure medications (vasodilators and oral beta-blockers) can increase risk of AMD. Research also suggests that long-term use of some NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can increase risk of AMD, especially when taken in higher doses. Smoking and use of tobacco products is actually the highest risk factor for developing AMD,
followed by lack of exercise, poor diet, and excessive alcohol use. Comprehensive eye exams are important not only to determine if you need correction to see well but also to maintain the health of your eyes. While some eye diseases have obvious symptoms, many serious, vision-threatening problems have no warning signs. If you need eye care or an eye exam, please call 201-896-0007. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To contact our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.
P.S. While some studies have linked aspirin use to worsening age-related macular degeneration (AMD), aspirin and other NSAIDS pose little to no risk of contributing toward AMD for most people.
Photo courtesy of Rich Corsetto
Continued from Page 6
has significantly helped in bringing more attention to our cause and the critical work we are doing within the Kearny community. Since our founding in 2022, we have been driven by the mission to ensure that every child in our community has the essential resources they need to succeed in school. The support and awareness generated by your article are invaluable as we continue to grow and help even more students. We are particularly appreciative of your emphasis on our ongoing need for donations and volunteers, as these are crucial to sustaining and expanding our impact.
We also want to take this opportunity to inform the community that our upcoming distribution event on Saturday, Aug. 17, will be open to all ages. Please note that the event time has been adjusted to run from noon to
3 p.m., instead of the previously scheduled noon to 5 p.m.
We understand that many families were unable to attend our last event due to the last-minute rain date, and we want to ensure that those who couldn’t make it have the opportunity to get the uniforms their children need.
It is heartening to know that local media like The Observer shares our commitment to supporting the educational journey of our children. With your help, we hope to engage more community members in our cause, ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the uniforms and educational tools they need.
Thank you once again for your support. We look forward to continuing this vital work with the help of generous community members, inspired by your article.
Jenny Franzese-Paz President & Founder KNJ PS Uniform Exchange (KPSUE)
Don’t forget to watch The Observer Live! Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter & Twitch. On YouTube, click ‘subscribe’ to be notified whenever we’re on the air.
KCG CHEER
Continued from Page 10
still like, ‘I can’t believe it, are we really going to Hawaii?’ Nobody really believed it until we were there.”
While the host, CheerBrandz, covered the registration and some expenses. There was still significant fundraising needed for the Kearny-based team to get to Honolulu. According to Guedes, raising the money needed was a true collaborative effort of local sponsors and donors as well as fundraising efforts by members of KGC.
“They do a lot,” Guedes said. “They’re the ones that help with all the fundraising, setting up the ideas, contacts, getting the sponsors, getting events up and running.
“Jenn Esteves is our adviser who takes care of everything behind the scenes. She makes sure everything for the teams are taken care of and sets up events and helps with whatever we need.
“Bianca Pesantez coaches the Junior Red team with me and she also heads our fundraising with Stephanie Comp setting up all events and helping get sponsors for the teams.”
In total, the team got to spend seven days in Honolulu, with the competition going from May 17-19, allowing them to all spend time on the beach and see
the surrounding area.
While Guedes and Pereira put an emphasis on trying to have the contingent enjoy this trip, it ultimately was still a competition and they were pleased with the team’s performance going up against older competition.
The ages of Senior Black team members is between 14 and 20, while, due to the difference in international rules, some of the other teams had performers in their mid-20s.
“Obviously we’re going there to compete, but we didn’t want it to be too stressful,” said Guedes. “We wanted them to also have a good time while we’re there.
“We did practice a lot while we were there, but we tried to not be as stressful on the kids. It was more like, do what we know and just have fun while you’re out there.
“It’s the last time they were competing, so they wanted to win, but they also wanted to just put out a good performance.”
The Global Games marked the conclusion of KGC’s 17th season of competition since Guedes and her cousin Justine Esteves founded the organization.
In those 17 years, KGC Cheer, which now has three different teams and is open to boys and girls ages 6 and up. During that time, they’ve accumulated 23 national and global championship wins.
Everyone should be aware of the risks of the sun’s UV rays, but seniors need to be especially vigilant. Older adults, particularly those with sensitive skin or on certain medications, are more susceptible to the damage that UV rays can cause. Some risks include skin cancer, premature aging, cataracts, a weakened immune system and heat-related illnesses.
Sun safety tips
Follow these sun safety tips when you’re outdoors:
• Use sunscreen. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, including the face, neck, arms and legs. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
• Cover up. Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses to protect the skin and eyes.
• Seek shade. Limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When outdoors, seek shade under trees, um-
SENIOR LIVING
brellas or canopies to reduce UV exposure.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot weather, to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, as they can contribute to dehydration.
• Check medications. Some medications, such as antibiotics
and diuretics, can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Consult your local pharmacist about potential side effects and take necessary precautions when spending time outdoors.
Look for sunscreens, sunglasses and hats at your local shops and pharmacies to safely enjoy your outdoor activities!
Novena to St. Jude
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Please grant my request. Say this prayer 9 times a day. By the 9th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you Saint Jude.
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
renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple
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
Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916
You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.
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 07032 (201) 991-0657
AG releases report on automated license plate readers
ttorney General Matthew J. Platkin and New Jersey State Police Superintendent Col. Patrick J. Callahan announced the release of the 2023 Audit of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) Data Collected and Utilized by New Jersey Law Enforcement.
ALPRs represent a critical technology that bolsters law enforcement efforts. The information ALPRs provide assist law enforcement in identifying, locating and recovering stolen vehicles; interrupting auto theft networks; apprehending individuals involved in vehicle theft and other violent crimes; and finding missing persons and tracking Amber and Silver alerts.
“ALPR technology is crucial to protecting our communities. We
remain committed to overseeing the use of this technology in a manner that prioritizes accountability and transparency,” Platkin said. “Annual audits give us a chance to be transparent and show our dedication to using this technology ethically, equitably and lawfully.”
In October 2022, Platkin issued Directive 2022-12 that updated the original 2010 Attorney General Directive on ALPR, which established guidelines governing the use of ALPR technology and the data that it generates.
“We, as law enforcement, realize the critical importance of ALPR technology in improving public safety,” . Callahan said. “Regular audits are crucial to ensure that the use of ALPR technology is carried out in compliance with the law, promoting trust among the communities we serve.”
The new directive had two main goals. First, it preserved and expanded measures to prevent abuse and protect privacy, including the protections in place to restrict law enforcement’s access to personal-identifiable information linked to a vehicle’s license plate unless there was a specific basis.
Second, the revised policy enabled the statewide sharing and standardization of ALPR data to enhance the effectiveness of this tool in solving and preventing crimes. Standardization, in turn, aids in the statewide oversight of the program.
The directive also instructed the NJSP to oversee annual audits of each agency’s ALPR program, which firmly establish accountability and compliance, ensuring the tools used by law enforcement are be-
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ing done so responsibly and according to uniform standards. This framework helps foster trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
Additionally, the directive mandated training requirements to ensure all authorized users possess the necessary skills and knowledge to handle ALPRs and access associated data responsibly. As part of implementation of the directive, the NJSP has undertaken significant efforts to streamline systems and reporting across law enforcement agencies. That includes conducting trainings with law enforcement across the state on the directive and how to follow issued policies.
During the audit reporting period, covering July 1 through Dec. 31, 2023, all 517 New Jersey law enforcement agencies required to certify for 2023 completed the audit. No complaints were reported about misuse of ALPRs by citizens.
There were two instances of significant violations under the reporting standards related to protocol lapses in accessing ALPR data, though in neither instance were the searches found to be unjustified.
The directive and the state’s ALPR policies mandates a range of safeguards that promote accountability. They limit use of the technology to individuals who have received proper training on ALPR policy and procedures, prevents abuse by law enforcement and ensure users who are accessing the system do so in a manner consistent with protocols which ensures proper oversight and auditing of the use of ALPR.
Significant violations may in certain circumstances nonetheless be justified uses. They do not include minor violations such as unintentionally selecting the wrong purpose or justification for an inquiry.
BELLEVILLE 3rd floor Private entrance 1 BR, LR, DR, Kitchen 1 months security. H/ HW included. No Pets/ smoking Preferred single person or couple Available Now (973)759-7077 13W03
BELLEVILLE 16 Howard Place. off Washington Avenue. 3 rooms. 1 BR. $1400 + 1.5 Months security. HT/HW included. N0 Pets. Near Family Dollar Store. Available Now (973) 801-5900 13W03
HARRISON 1st floor
Newly renovated 1 BR, $1800 + utilities and security. no pets/ smoking Available now (201)991-6942 or (732)895-2321 14W03
HARRISON New Home
2nd fl. 3 BR’s, 2 Baths. Close to transportation. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. (201)7090645 or (973)741-8292 Leave Message 14W03
KEARNY 3rd floor apt 1 bedroom , 2 small rooms with closets, kitchen with marble top and new hard wood floors. New AC No pets smoking, $1.750 + 1.5 months security All utilities included. Corner of Belleville turnpike and Forest St. Available Now(201) 206-4845 13W03
KEARNY 6 family home, Newly Renovated. 3rd fl. 2 BR, $1,700+ 1 1/2 months security. Utilities separate. No pets. No Smoking Avl. Now (973) 905-0508 13W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2 BR, LR, DR, Kitchen 1 Bath $2000 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking Available September 1st (917)9633244 13W03
KEARNY 2nd Floor 5 BR’s, $3200 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking Access to Patio Available Now (201)772-9965 14W03
KEARNY 3 room apartment, one bedroom, on first floor of 4 family duplex. $1750.00 per month, one month security. Supply own utilities. One parking space. Use of small yard. No pets, no smoking. Single or couple preferred. Call between 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM only. 201-997-2341 14W03
KEARNY 3rd floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK $2200 + 1.5 months security Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking, Access to Yard Available Now (201)772-9965 14W03
KEARNY Kearny Ave. 2nd Floor, LR, 4 bedrooms, use of backyard. Available September 1st. Separate utilities. $2,600 month + 1-1/2 months security. Nears Schools (201) 9552662 (201) 991-3366 14W03
KEARNY 2nd Floor 3
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KEARNY Arlington Section: Single family home 4 BRS, LR, DR, 1.5 Baths . Full Kitchen, w/ New Appliance & Washer and Dryer Hook up. $3100 + 1.5 Months
Security. Utilities separate, Alv. Now 2 Parking spaces No Smoking/ No Pets. Credit Background Check, Contact: (201)294-3916 14W03
KEARNY Elevated building Studi &1 BR APT. HT/HW included. $1,500+ 1.5 Months
Security See Super, 654 Elm St, Kearny. Laundry facility on premises Call Sofia after 3pm ( 201)998-3516 for appointment. 15W03
KEARNY 1 BR APT. HT/HW included. $1,575 + 1.5 Months security. See Super 6 Woodland Ave. Apt. 1 (201)892-8035 for appointment. 15W03
KEARNY 3rd Floor
Kearny Ave building, No elevator 2 BR’s, EIK $1600 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate. No Pets Good references a must Available September 1st (551)2534149 Leave detailed message 15W03
LYNDHURST 2nd floor. 1 BR,LR, EIK. $1650 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Close to NY transportation and shopping. Quiet area. Washer and dryer. No Pets/Smoking Available August 15th (201)724-7317 13W03
N.ARLINGTON First floor. 6 large rooms 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Walking distance to Schools, Bus, Supermarket & Church. Available September 1st (201)6572119 14W03
Off street parking spot available, near 5th & Central Ave Harrsion (973)902-5717 15W03
Personalized Assistance to Seniors Marianne Care Giver/Bills/Phone Calls/Internet/Daily Chores,Etc. All Inquiries Welcome Call for information Cell:(973)573-4139 mariannaboc8@gmail.com References Available 14W03
Men’s Winter clothes, Pots and Frying pans, Furniture, Tee Shirts, Leather and winter jackets Brand new towels Much, much more! Call to make apointment (201)988-8575 15W01
KEARNY Huge Yard Sale Sat 08/17 from 9 am -4pm. 214 Davis Ave Kearny. Rain Date Sun 08/18 All new merchandise, Yoga wear, capris, shorts, Lots of great and new items! 15W01
CHIPPER TREE LLC
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As many U.S. Vietnam-era veterans know, dioxin is a highly toxic and persistent organic pollutant linked to cancers, diabetes, birth defects and other disabilities.”
Harrison attorney John M.
Pinho recently addressed a meeting of the EPA in a Zoom teleconference and flatly asked what the federal agency’s plans were for the site at the edge of the Jackson Street Bridge on Frank E. Rodgers Boulevard South.
Here’s what Elice Yeh, an EPA project manager, said in reply.
DIRECTORY BUSINESS
“That’s one of the sites that is proposed in the design, to, it’s really to treat the sediments that are contaminated by the sort of oily tar-like stuff that, from the PSE&G facility, historically,” Yeh said. “The proposal is also to put capping material there that will go into that section of the river as well.”
Further pressed by Pinho, who noted this once industrial area is now mostly residential, with luxury apartment buildings, Yeh said: “I think that the river is in an urban community, in urban communities,” Yeh said. “The whole river sort of runs through very settled areas, and so in order to do this work, in order to
clean up the river, the dredged materials need to be brought on land, squeezed dry, and shipped to disposal facilities elsewhere in the United States — and so any sort of piece of land that is available to do that kind of work, we’re going to try use it to do the work.”
Mayor James A. Fife, meanwhile, says it wouldn’t be proper for him or the council to come out either for or against the EPA’s plans until they’re fully revealed in late August.
“We patiently await hearing from the EPA when it comes to Harrison High School to discuss its plans,” Fife said. “To now, we have not been fully briefed, but when we are, we will discuss their ideas before deciding whether this is the appropriate course to take.”
SUMMER
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dergarten in September. Both programs incorporated classroom learning as well as recreational activities both inside the gymnasium and outside on the playground,” Steve Valente, assistant principal at Lincoln School, said. “The students came in each and every day to attend our summer programs with so much enthusiasm. They were able to continue to learn and grow in so many different ways. The summer programs provided a positive school experience right from the start and it gets them (and us) excited to begin in September.”
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
NEWS BRIEFS
Harrison sponsoring community blood drive
The Town of Harrison hosts a community blood drive from 1 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 15, at the Harrison Recreation Center, 401 Warren St., Harrison.
Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are accepted. Register online at www.nybc.org/drive and use code 70864.
Donors must bring a photo ID and should eat and drink before donating.
Kearny Recreation hosting movie night
Kearny Recreation hosts movie night at 8 p.m., Aug. 22, at Veterans Field, Belgrove Drive, featuring “Barbie.” Remember to bring a chair or blanket to sit on the lawn.
DON’T FORGET TO WATCH
MAGUEY
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them to ensure everything — down to the most minute detail — is just as it would be south of the border.
What else stands out about the place?
It’s the uniqueness of it all.
“I don’t want to be like another restaurants where I fill this up with Mexican, you know, like a Mexican theme,” Torres says. “It doesn’t look high-class but it doesn’t look low-class. It’s just in the middle so everybody could come and experience very affordable pricing.”
So far as we can tell, that’s all worked.
Now, lest we forget, Maguey isn’t just a place for regular dining. It’s available for private parties, funeral repasts, anything of that nature. So if you’re looking to host a unique day or night out, you can’t go wrong at Maguey. He’s also hoping to eventually offer outside dining under a tent, perhaps next warm season.
In all, he’s put a serious investment
into the place — and now, he’s hoping locals will give Maguey a shot.
“We’re here and putting down our roots here,” he says. “You’re not going to find more authentic Mexican dishes around here. I hope people are willing to give us a shot.”
Maguey is open seven days a week.
From Sunday to Thursday, hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, they’re open to midnight. It’s located 11-35 River Road, North Arlington. Call (201) 246-8900 for more details.
