Archdiocese of Newark celebrates annual Blue Mass in honor of police lost in the line of duty.
Esteves wins Third Ward Council seat in tight race; North Arlington GOP candidates win with ease
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Democrat Fred Esteves defeated Republican Jorge D. Santos Nov. 5 in Kearny’s Third Ward Town Council race, unofficially, by a margin of 1,878 votes to 1,624, or 53 to 45% of the electorate. Write-in candidates received 74 votes or around 2% of the total vote.
Esteves took office the next day, Wednesday, Nov. 6, at a meeting of the mayor and Town Council. He replaces the formerly appointed representative, Renato da Silva, who Esteves beat in a June primary en route to the November victory.
Esteves will need to seek re-election next year — along with three other Town Council
seats and the mayoralty. Open seats include those currently occupied by Mayor Carol Jean
Fand Councilmembers
Richard
and Jerry Ficeto.
We’ll have more on this race in the coming days.
Meanwhile, in North Arlington, Republicans Brian Fitzhenry (4,194) and Allison Sheedy (4,141) easily won their race for re-election to the North Arlington Borough Council over Democrats John Balwierczak (2,624) and John Yampaglia (2,662).
And though it is not a local race, in perhaps the most surprising vote tally, Donald J. Trump won 17 of Kearny’s 30 districts and the town overall 6,266 votes to Vice President Kamala Harris’s 6,054 votes. Trump also made significant gains countywide over 2020’s results.
Kearny’s Jablonski takes on new role as state appellate jurist
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
ormer Hudson County Assignment Judge Jeffrey Jablonski has a new role in the state’s appellate division and will relinquish his role as Hudson County’s assignment judge.
Superior Court Judge David B. Katz has been named the new assignment judge for the Hudson Vicinage, effective Nov. 7, Chief Justice Stuart Rabner said.
Katz has served as presiding judge of the Essex Family Division since 2015.
Prior to his judicial career, Jablonski was in private practice from 1997 to 2013. He also worked for the Office of
See JABLONSKI, Page 18
Doyle
Marytrine DeCastro,
Konopka
Town of Kearny photo/Barbara B. Goldberg
Newly elected Kearny Third Ward Councilman Fred Esteves, third from left, takes his oath of office from Town Clerk Patricia Carpenter, far left, on Wednesday, Nov. 6, with his family looking on.
NEWS BRIEFS
Knights hosting blood drive
The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus be sponsor a fall blood drive at Columbian Club Hall Friday, Nov. 29, from 1 to 4 p.m. All donors must weigh at least 110 lbs., eat a meal before donating, bring ID and drink plenty of water before and after donating. The wearing of masks is optional. It is strongly recommended anyone wishing to donate blood make an appointment ahead of time by calling (877) 258-482 or visit donors.vitalant.org (using blood drive code X126).
Salvation Army hosting open gyms with Tom Fraser
The Salvation Army of greater Kearny, 28 Beech St., hosts open gyms Tuesday and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. for kids aged 10 to 17. Games will be under the supervision of the immortal Tom Fraser,
retired Lincoln School counselor and coach and long-time director of the Presbyterian Boys & Girls Club.
UNICO hosting food drive
The Kearny chapter of UNICO hosts a food drive Nov. 16, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the American Legion parking lot. All donations will be sent to the Kearny Food Pantry.
Girl Scouts, American Legion collecting socks for veterans
Kearny Girl Scouts and American Legion Auxiliary Post 99 are collecting socks throughout November for veterans.
Donations are being accepted at four locations through November — American Legion Post 99, 314 Belgrove Drive; the Girl Scout House, 635 Kearny Ave.; Cathy's Hair Fashion Center, 828 Kearny Ave.; and Gina’s Hair Design, 262 Kearny Ave.
Honoring Kearny’s Veteran of the
udson County recognized Veterans of the Year in each municipality and Kearny’s is Thomas Veith, third from left. Veith is a member of the American Legion Post No. 99, Kearny. He is seen here with his wife. Also, from left, are Councilmembers Jerry Ficeto, (UVO liaison), Marytrine DeCastro, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, and the American Legion’s Leonard Twist and Keith McMillan.
Work on several Belleville parks underway
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Futsal turf is being laid down, swing sets are being anchored in place and work continues at two sites this fall, as the township of Belleville creates more recreational facilities for residents of all ages and abilities.
“The work being done on these parks is important for a number of reasons, but primarily because Belleville residents deserve new facilities,” Melham, who has spearheaded all of the work, said.
Funding for the total renovation of Planeson Park next to No. 9 School is not coming from Belleville taxpayers or borrowed money, but rather $1.9 million collected from developers — another benefit of town-wide redevelopment.
The first phase of the Planeson renovations, on schedule to be completed this fall, includes a dog park, a turf futsal field and pickleball courts. The park will also have a new playground and visitor parking lot.
The second phase will include
a combination softball and soccer field.
Meanwhile, construction continues at Fairway Park, at the end of Fairway Avenue.
The $975,000 project will make Fairway Park the township’s first all-inclusive playground — a space designed to be physically accessible and welcoming to children with disabilities.
The new playground has direct gated sidewalk access from the upgraded parking lot that will now include spaces that meet federal regulations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The new playground will be marked with many inclusive, sensatory items, including a next-generation seesaw that gives up to four riders the same bouncing sensation as a traditional seesaw, but with a full chair and back.
Fairway Park’s arch swing allows users who are not able to use a traditional belt swing seat to still experience the same joyous swinging motion.
The park will also include three types of permanent musical instruments, which are key components of inclusive playgrounds.
The main playground
structure will include a transfer platform so those who use a wheelchair or mobility device may lift or transfer onto the play structure and leave a wheelchair or mobility device at ground level.
Fairway Park will also feature new basketball courts, an upgraded community garden, a dog park, a walking trail and an upgraded ball field.
Fairway Park
Kearny, We Are One Center, hosting citizenship clinic
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The Town of Kearny, in partnership with We Are One New Jersey Hudson County Center, and the Kearny Portuguese Cultural Association, hosts a citizenship clinic Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 408 Schuyler Ave., Mayor Carol Jean Doyle said.
KEARNY NEWS
Applicants will receive an overview of the naturalization application process and interview preparation.
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The event is open to all interested in becoming a citizen of the United States.
We Are One, in keeping
with its mission, has partnered with Doyle, Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro and the Portuguese Cultural Association for the event. The clinic will be a one-stop shop for any legal permanent resident who would like to apply for naturalization and get informed on what the interview process entails and how to pass the citizenship exam.
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Pre-registration and appointments are required. To qualify for citizenship or for more information about this event and/or to register, call (201) 209-2839 or reach DeCastro at (201) 362-5028 (she is leading and coordinating the initiative.)
We Are One New Jersey Hudson County Center provides social and legal services that educate, empower, and uplift working families at low or no cost.
Scan the QR code to the right to register for the clinic. Registration is required.
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The owner of a Kearny check-cashing business
— Galaxia International Inc. — admitted filing more than $325 million in false currency transaction reports and operating and aiding and abetting an unlicensed money transmitting business, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Ali Hassanein, 68, also a resident of Kearny, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Renée Marie Bumb in Camden federal court last month, to an information charging him with conspiracy to cause a financial institution to file false currency transaction reports and operating and aiding and abetting the operation of an unlicensed money transmitting business.
“The Bank Secrecy Act imposes important requirements on financial institutions, including by requiring them and their executives to file accurate reports with the government concerning certain currency transactions,” Sellinger said. “These
requirements play a vital role in helping law enforcement prevent, detect and stop illicit activity.
“Ali Hassanein admitted that he and Galaxia flouted these requirements, which undermined the financial system and made Galaxia an easy target for bad actors. My office will continue to work to ensure that financial institutions who shirk their obligations and facilitate illicit activity are held accountable.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From 2019 through February 2023, Hassanein owned and operated Galaxia International Services Inc. (Galaxia), a check casher and money service business that operat-
ed in New Jersey and other states. Under the Bank Secrecy Act and related regulations, Galaxia was required to file currency transaction reports (CTRs) for transactions involving more than $10,000 in currency.
CTRs are required to list, among other things, the location of the transactions and the names of the people and entities physically conducting the transactions. Hassanein conducted more than $325 million in reportable check cashing transactions for a conspirator in exchange for a fee.
But Hassanein caused Galaxia to file thousands of CTRs for those transactions that contained material misstatements and omissions. For ex-
ample, the CTRs falsely stated that all of the transactions had occurred at Galaxia’s East Orange location – where Galaxia had a license to conduct check cashing transactions – when in fact they had occurred in Jersey City and Kearny, where Galaxia was not licensed to conduct check cashing transactions.
All of the CTRs failed to list the conspirator as the conductor of the transactions. Hassanein also aided and abetted the conspirator’s operation of an unlicensed money transmitting business.
The charges of conspiring
to cause a financial institution to file false currency transaction reports and operating and aiding and abetting the operation of an unlicensed money transmitting business each carry a statutory maximum prison sentence of five years and a statutory maximum fine or the greatest of $250,000, twice the gross amount of any pecuniary gain that any persons derived from the offense, or twice the gross amount of any pecuniary loss sustained by any victims of the offense, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for April 2, 2025.
OPINION & VIEWPOINTS
CHRISTMAS 2024
Santa prepares to bring Christmas Joy to one and all this holiday season ...
T’was the month of December, but before Christmas Day. Santa was busy getting ready his sleigh. For soon it would be that eventful night. When he would take to the sky for his annual flight. The children were happy and behaving quite well. Singing carols, and in plays of the birth of a savior, they would tell.
Everyone seemed happy with Love in their hearts, for the Babe in the manger, and each other, close and apart. If only it would last the whole year through, this magic of the Season for you, you and you.
Santa was thinking “How can this magic keep going? It should not end!”
So he thought and he thought till a solution began, and just like that, he knew what to do, to keep our hearts open so the magic would flow through.
He was so excited, he had to gather his thoughts, to keep the magic flowing from each of our hearts.
As we open each gift, let the magic flow in, till our hearts overflow and the happiness begins.
But happiness and the magic need
Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
a force to carry on, so let’s keep the thrill of anticipation growing strong. Whenever we are down and feeling mad or depressed, let us recall what we love the best.
And think of next Christmas, the delight it will cause, let the magic take over, the bad feelings be paused. Merry Christmas, everyone!
Love, Santa
Family and friends: Thank you for your encouragement and support of Kearny Board of Education candidates.
Through your insight and analysis, you validated belief in candidates’ experience, dedication and commitment. Thank you again.
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Robert P. Pezzolla
gm@theobserver.com General Manager
Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Kimberley Pezzolla kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sales/Classifieds
You likely know this by now, but Adam Sandler has been in Kearny as he films ‘Happy Gilmore II.’ Sandler, center, is seen here with Kearny residents Dylan Sullivan, left, and Miguel Pinero. Ben Stiller, though not in the photo, was also in town filming
Cardinal Tobin honors law enforcement at annual Blue Mass
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The Archdiocese of Newark honored the dedication and sacrifices of all active, retired and deceased New Jersey law enforcement at the 31st annual Blue Mass Nov. 7 in Newark’s Cathedral-Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., archbishop of Newark, presided over the liturgy, which featured a solemn procession of police honor guard units, bagpipers and drummers, including many from departments in The Observer’s readership.
Lt. Governor Tahesha Way, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and numerous other dignitaries joined hundreds of law enforcement officials and loved ones from throughout the state to pray for nine police officers who died in the line of duty: New Jersey State Police Trooper Marcellus E. Bethea; Sayreville Police Capt. William Gawron; Elizabeth Police Sgt. Michael “Zini” Kurinzi; Port Authority Police Capt. Richard L. Ruiz Sr.; Port Authority Police Capt. John M. Collins; Port Authority Police Officer David J. Lee; Port Authority Police Officer
See BLUE MASS, Page 8
Top: Sgt. Mathew Lopez, of the Kearny PD, processes into the 2024 Blue Mass. Below: Officer Jonathan Dowie also processes in. Both are members of the Kearny PD’s Honor Guard.
LPD: North Carolina man, unaware of Jersey’s opencarry rules, caught on Ridge Road with gun on him
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
ANorth Carolina man seemingly unaware it’s illegal to openly carry a weapon in New Jersey finds himself in trouble after a Lyndhurst resident noticed him walking along Ridge Road in a suspicious manner and with a bulge on his waist on Nov. 3, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri, the LPD’s public-information officer said.
Konnar Morris, 22, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of
a weapon, open carry of a firearm in public, possession of an unsecured firearm and possession of a large capacity magazine, Auteri said.
That day at 9:18 a.m., Lyndhurst police officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Ridge Road after a 911 call alerted police to a suspicious man, dressed in all black, walking along Ridge Road with a handgun tucked in his waistband.
Responding officers canvassed the area before Officer Anthony Morreale located the man in the 600 block of Lake Avenue. Officer Morreale was joined by Lt. Paul Haggerty and officers Brian
NORTH ARLINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
Register for Full-Day Preschool (Age 3) – Limited Vacancies
Kapp and Michael Clifford. Together, they confronted the suspect, Morris, and located a loaded 9mm handgun tucked in his waistband.
The North Arlington Public School District is opening mid-year enrollment to thirteen (13) three-year-old children to be placed in existing state-funded Pre-K 4 (four-year-old) classrooms. Students will begin on or about December 9, 2024. Priority enrollment will be provided to children whose families meet specific socio-economic criteria.
Any families interested in this opportunity must visit the homepage of www.navikings.org to complete the Preschool Interest Form. The form must be completed by 9:00 p.m. on Friday, November 15, 2024. Late registrants will not be eligible.
Requirements & Criteria
• Your child must have turned 3 years old on or before October 1, 2024.
• Your child must be domiciled in North Arlington.
Further information will be provided to families who complete the Preschool Interest Form.
DISTRITO ESCOLAR PÚBLICO DE NORTH ARLINGTON
Inscripción para Preescolar de Día Completo (Edad 3) – Vacantes Limitadas
El Distrito Escolar Público de North Arlington está abriendo la inscripción a mitad de año para trece niños (13) de tres años que serán ubicados en aulas existentes de Pre-K 4 (niños de cuatro años) financiadas por el estado. Los estudiantes comenzarán el 9 de diciembre de 2024 aproximadamente. Se dará prioridad de inscripción a los niños cuyas familias cumplan con criterios socioeconómicos específicos.
Cualquier familia interesada en esta oportunidad debe visitar la página principal de www.navikings.org para completar el Formulario de Interés para Preescolar. El formulario debe completarse antes de las 9:00 p.m. del viernes 15 de noviembre de 2024. Los que se inscriban tarde no serán elegibles.
Requisitos y Criterios
• Su hijo debe haber cumplido 3 años el 1 de octubre de 2024 o antes.
• Su hijo debe residir en North Arlington.
Se proporcionará más información a las familias que completen el Formulario de Interés para Preescolar.
Morris was placed under arrest and transported to the Lyndhurst Police Department where he was processed and charged accordingly. Morris was remanded to the Bergen County Jail, Hackensack, pending court, and additional charges are pending.
The investigation further revealed Morris was staying with a friend who lived in the area and it is believed he was unaware New Jersey does not permit open firearm carry. A search warrant was executed on a car found to be registered to Morris. The search also revealed additional 9mm ammunition.
BLUE MASS
Continued from Page 7
Anthony J. Mezzacappa; Port Authority Police Officer John M. Cortazzo; and New Jersey Transit Police Inspector Robert Noble.
Additionally, Millburn Police Officer Luke Lyons and Fairfield Police Det. James Ciampi — two police officers who died outside the line duty — were recognized for their years of commitment to law enforcement.
In his homily, Cardinal Tobin commended the police for embodying what Jesus proclaimed was the greatest love of all — to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. But the cardinal said it is not enough just to thank law enforcement for their efforts. Instead, he said everyone should ensure officers’ sacrifices are not made in vain.
“Our presence today is a commitment to work with you to leave this world a better place than we found it,” Tobin said. “Walk the talk that rejects violent deeds or vicious rhetoric. And today, especially, (we must) share with you what we have found … the Light that no darkness can overcome.”
INJURED? KNOW YOUR RIGHTS.
John M. Pinho Attorney
TNovember 13, 2024
SPORTS & HEALTH
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
he NJSIAA boys soccer state tournament got underway last week and through the first two rounds of play a familiar storyline has emerged locally.
Not only are Harrison and Kearny both on to the semifinals in their respective sections, both longtime state powers have done it in dominant fashion.
The Kardinals, seeded second in North 1, Group 4, soundly defeated North Bergen, 5-0, in the first round, then made quick work of Morristown in the quarterfinals, 6-1.
Meanwhile, in North 2, Group 2, the Blue Tide, seeded third, thumped Mendham, 6-1, in the first round, then got some revenge in the quarterfinals when it scored four times in the second half to defeat a Lyndhurst team that ended Harrison’s season early a year ago, 5-0.
For Harrison head coach Mike Rusek, the two lopsided results were a high-water mark for a team that has not always played as consistently as its coach would have liked.
“I think we’ve been waiting all season for it,” Rusek said about his now 16-5-2 Blue Tide.
“It’s been quite a roller coaster ride in September and October, but we tell them the only month you have to be undefeated in is November.”
Kearny coach Scott Millar didn’t have quite the same level of concern for his team heading into the postseason. Currently ranked No. 8 in the state with a record of 19-3, Millar has been pleased with the consistency, especially on the offensive end, the Kardinals have shown all year.
“We’ve really liked the way we’ve played all year,” said Millar. “Even in the games that we’ve dropped, we’ve certainly still created a great number of chances. Some nights they just
Yusufu Jaite
RED HOT START
don’t go in. Recently they’ve been going in and the play hasn’t changed for us.”
For Kearny, that meant scoring goals in bunches and from multiple players. The quarterfinal saw the Kardinals strike for two goals within the first 10 minutes before Morristown had even brought the ball across the midfield.
In each game, four different Kearny players recorded a goal. Adryel Garcia Ferreria led the way with two goals in the first round and it was Gabe Gomez with two in the quarterfinals. In total, seven different Kardinals have scored a goal in the state tournament, led by Gomez’s three.
Gomez’s 11 goals on the season lead a balanced effort as seven players have six or more for the year.
“That’s certainly a great luxury that we have is that any one of our players, including guys that come off the bench, have really shown well at this
time of the year,” Millar said. “It’s nice to not have to rely on one player or two players to get goals. The team creates an awful lot of chances and we’ve been very fortunate with the amount of players that have had great opportunities.”
It’s been an identical formula for success at Harrison. Seven different Blue Tide have scored at least one goal in the two victories, led by Frank Barrera’s three goals.
Barrera, a senior who was limited by injury late in the regular season, scored twice in the win over Mendham. Against Lyndhurst, it was Christian Barrios who struck for two goals in the victory.
Barrios and Cristian Carranza are two players who have stepped up to play bigger roles since second leading scorer Pedro Barreto Reis went down with a knee injury and with Barrera, the team’s leading scorer, still limited. Star holding midfielder Yusufu Jaite has
also come up more often in the attack, a role he became quite familiar with in the past.
“Yusufu has had a tremendous season,” said Rusek of his senior, who has five goals and 10 assists. “We moved him back from forward to defensive center midfielder and he’s really held this whole team together at times on his shoulders.”
Both teams have daunting semifinal matchups. Harrison, which has been undefeated at home this year, will have to travel to Madison on Tuesday afternoon and face a Dodgers team that is 19-1 with the only loss coming in the Morris County Tournament final to nationally-ranked Delbarton. A few hours later, Kearny will host a red-hot Clifton team in a rematch of last year’s North 1, Group 4 final that the Kardinals won in overtime. Clifton (16-2-2), the reigning Passaic County champions, has won 11 games in a row.
Lyndhurst girls volleyball aims to make history
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
The Lyndhurst girls volleyball team has been building up to this moment for the past four months.
Now the Golden Bears are on the brink of not only fulfilling the goal that they’ve been working on since the start of summer league, but doing something no Lyndhurst team has done in 34 years.
On Tuesday at 4:30 p.m., Lyndhurst will host Mendham in the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 2 final. At 23-3, it’s been a dream season for the Bears and with one more win, they’ll be sectional champs for the first time since 1990.
But despite all that is at stake, head coach Steve Vahalla doesn’t see a team that’s nervous of the big stage, but rather is ready after the last four
months.
“The girls are focused. They know what’s in front of them and have been working hard to take one point at a time and one game at a time,” said Vahalla. “We have worked hard all season to be right where we want to be - a sectional final, in front of our home crowd and we’re ready for whatever comes our way.”
After earning a first round bye, Lyndhurst started its tournament run with a 25-19, 25-10 victory over Parsippany Hills on Thursday. Kiana Marizan had 21 assists, while the three-headed attack of Asya Akar, Yasemin Ugurlu and Sofia Hechavarria all had big days offensively. Akar had nine kills and six digs, Ugurlu eight kills with seven digs, and Hechavarria added seven kills and three blocks. Sophomore Gabriela
Kalisiak added a career-high seven digs.
Two days later, the Bears took down what has historically been Morris County’s top program when it defeated West Morris, 25-20, 25-20 in the semifinals. Hechavarria dominated defensively with seven blocks as she, Akar and Ugurlu recorded five kills apiece. Ugurlu added seven digs, Marizan had 16 assists and Gianna DeCoro had a season-best three kills.
The two victories showed that there were no ill-effects from a rare nine day break following its three set victory over state ranked Secaucus to close out the regular season.
While arguably not ideal, it did provide an opportunity to offer a reset after 24 regular season matches.
“Although we did have a little
over a week off with no games, the girls had a couple well deserved days off,” Valhalla said.
“I reminded them that our ‘new season’ started on Monday and they responded well. Leading up to our quarterfinal match, we watched film, held a ‘scrimmage’ in practice the day before
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to get us back in the swing of game mode and worked on adjusting and shutting down our opponent’s strengths.
“These girls love volleyball and it shows with every practice and every game. They are
Photo courtesy of Steve Vahalla
Big things ahead for Kearny girls tennis
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
The preseason for the next high school girls tennis season might not start for another nine months, but forgive Kearny head coach Michael Silpoch for already having an eye towards August.
This fall saw the Kardinals make a bit of a surprising run all the way to the Hudson County Tournament final before falling 3-2 to Hoboken on Oct. 24 and finishing the year 13-8. And with several underclassmen playing key roles, Silpoch doesn’t see this year as a surprising run, but rather the start of what should be a
stellar run within the county and beyond.
Prior to the final, Kearny defeated neighboring rival Harrison in the quarterfinals and defending champion McNair in the semifinals.
“As a coach, it makes you look forward to the next couple of years knowing that you’ve got this talent to work with and to build up,” said Silpoch. “They’re excited for next and then they’re excited for the year after because it’s right there for us.
“I think our team is going to be able to win the championship because I see the work these girls put in without me around on weekends (and the offseason).”
Leading the Kardinals in the
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present and future is freshman Juliet Olson. Olson went 16-3 in
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her rookie campaign and made it to the First Singles final at the season-ending Hudson County Individual Tournament.
Right from the start, Olson displayed a poise and maturity at a young age that reminded Silpoch of former HCIAL Player of the Year and current Stevens University player Glenda “Gigi” Arenas.
“You kind of know when the girl steps onto the court and she just hits that first forehand or backhand, you know this girl’s going to be something
See TENNIS, Page 12
Jayswinder Kaur
Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
Dr. Hector Aguilar
Photo courtesy of Michael Silpoch
VOLLEYBALL
Continued from Page 10
not only impressive athletes, but they listen carefully to what needs to be done to win matches. They want to get better to fix
TENNIS
Continued from Page 11
special,” Silpoch said of Olson. “It was the same with GIgi.”
Slotted in behind Olson were a pair of senior captains in Valeria Valencia and Samantha Cheng.
Valencia, a second-year player who saw her junior year cut short by injury, was a steady presence at second singles. Cheng, a four-year varsity player, was 13-3 and made it to the
mistakes and that’s all a coach can ask for. They all respond well to challenges and step up in high intensity games.”
None will have the intensity of Tuesday’s against Mendham.
This season has seen Lynd-
Third Singles final.
“She always gives it her all. She’s played through injuries,” said Silpoch.”She was somebody this year that I am so indebted to and so thankful for because of the leadership that she showed.”
Senior Fizza Raza, the third senior captain, and junior Kamilly Bravo were at first doubles. The duo got several key wins, including a tie-breaker victory in the Kardinals’ NJSIAA North 2, Group 4 win over Piscataway.
DO FREQUENT STYES INDICATE?
A stye is similar to a pimple on your eyelid. They form when an oil gland or eyelash follicle becomes clogged and causes an infection. Styes are not pimples, however, and are treated differently than common acne. Some groups of people are more prone to styes, including contact lens wearers and people who frequently rub their eyes. Certain diseases are associated with developing more frequent styes, like ocular rosacea, a chronic, inflammatory eye condition. Blepharitis is a condition that causes eyelid inflammation, often due to bacteria, and it commonly causes styes. Diabetes causes multiple ocular issues, and styes have been linked
to high blood sugar. Applying warm compresses several times a day can help clear many styes at home.
Just like with home treatment, prevention begins with good hygiene. Avoid touching your eyes as much as possible, and never ever touch your eyes without first washing your hands. For more information, please call 201-8960007. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To contact our optical shop, call 201-8960007. We accept most insurance. P.S. People who wear eye makeup are more prone to styes, especially when makeup is shared, expired, or worn overnight. www.delucavision.com
hurst make a name for itself in Bergen County and turn heads by making the Bergen County Tournament quarterfinals. Even more took notice after the victory over Secaucus. Now comes a chance to truly put itself on the map.
According to Silpoch, Kearny, as a team, really took off after freshmen Keyla Petrillo and Natalis Terrero emerged as the Kardinals’ pairing at second doubles. The two rookies combined to go 10-4 after being paired together this season.
“I think this year more than ever, we had a complete team,” Silpoch said. “Not many teams within our division could say that. Yeah, one team’s got a good first singles and one
“The state is starting to find out about Lyndhurst volleyball,” said Valhalla. “We earned that No. 1 seed and we’re continuing to prove it. We’ve been making a name for ourselves for some
team’s got a good first doubles. But I think we had the best all around team.”
For Petrillo and Terrero, their futures will likely be as singles performers. Whether it’s as singles players or in doubles, Petrillo, Terrero and Bravo are set to join Olson as the core for next year and beyond. It was something Silpoch reminded them when they watched Hoboken celebrate its county championship.
“We stood on the court as Hoboken was celebrating and
time with solid wins.
“I am beyond proud of how hard these girls worked all season and hosting Tuesday’s sectional final is a testament to all of the incredible work they put in these past four months.”
I said to them next year we’re going to be back here because of the level of talent and commitment that these girls have,” said Silpoch. “That we got as close as we got (this year), knocking off defending champion McNair (in the semifinals) shows we have a very bright future.”
n
During the Oct. 29 Hudson County Individuals Tournament, Harrison’s Serenity Maldonado earned second place in Second Singles.
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
OBITUARIES
Wilbert J. Branwell Wilbert J. Branwell died Nov. 11, 2024. He was 82. Visiting will be Friday, Nov. 15, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Armitage Wiggins
Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. His service will be Saturday, Nov. 16, at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home and burial will follow in Arlington Cemetery, Kearny.
Wilbert was a retired machinist, having worked for Public Service in Jersey City. He was a member of the Men’s Bible Study at Brookdale Christian Church in Bloomfield. He served in the United States Air Force from
Miracle Prayer
Dear Sacred Heart Of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favors, this time I ask you this special one favor. Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it in your own broken heart where our Father sees it, then in his merciful eyes it will become your favor, not mine.
1960 until 1966. Having been very proud of his military service, it is truly meaningful that he died on Veterans Day. Wilbert is survived by his wife, Barbara (nee Todd). Father of Dr. John Branwell and Deborah Jackson (Russ Horn), he is also survived by his sister Jacquelyn Charnes (nee Branwell), his brothersin-law James P. and Russell B. Todd, along with his grandchildren Olivia, Connor and
Novena to St. Claire
Natalie and his loyal daughter-in-law Donna Branwell. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the
All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
Missions fund at Brookdale Christian Church, 1350 Broad St., Bloomfield, N.J. 07003.
www.buyusfuneralhome.com
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. Please remember to recycle this and all newspapers.
V.L.
Ask St. Claire for 3 favors. 1 business 2 impossible. Say 9 Hail Mary’s for 9 days with a lighted candle. Pray whether you believe it or not. Publish on 9th day. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glorified & loved today and every day throughout the world Forever and Ever. Amen. Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem.
E.P.
WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME
Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916
331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison
Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221 Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North 973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com
Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657
Sarah Catherine Elizabeth Osterkorn
September
It’s hard to believe that you’ve been away from us for 14 years. The memory of your smile, courage and endurance is always close to those who knew you and continue to love you. You continue to be a beacon of light that shines in the hearts of the lives of the people you touched.
May God continue to bless you and count you among his Angels.
Dad, Mom, Friends & Family
KPD: Man driving erratically on Kearny streets thought he could get away with it ... until he crashed his ATV
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Aman from Linden was driving around Kearny on an ATV Nov. 2. And while he may have thought he knew the law, allowing him to make a mockery of himself without impunity, what he didn’t count on was crashing that ATV with police officers nearby.
According to Det. Sgt.
Michael Gontarczuk, the Kearny PD’s public-information officer, whilst on patrol that day at around a quarter after 2 in the morning, Officer Derek Hemphill observed an ATV with no plates driving erratically in the lower end of town. The vehicle drove the wrong way westbound on Wilson Avenue from Schuyler Avenue. Per the Attorney General’s policy, no pursuit or attempt to stop the vehicle was conducted.
While doing so, the rear tires were spinning and made contact with one of the officer’s legs, resulting in burns and abrasions.
The officers ultimately removed the actor from the ATV, brought him to the ground and placed him under arrest.
Minutes later, however, Officer Hemphill again observed the ATV near the intersection of Davis Avenue and Hoyt Street, and again did not pursue or activate his emergency lights.
A search incident to arrest yielded a knife, lock picks, copper wire, latex gloves, cocaine and various items of drug paraphernalia.
Upon sight of the police vehicle, the ATV made a U-turn and crashed into a parked vehicle.
The ATV was wedged into the bumper of the parked vehicle and when Officers Hemphill and Andy Soto approached on foot and ordered him to stop, the driver put the ATV in reverse and attempted to drive away.
Ricky Fernandez, 27, of Linden was charged with aggravated assault, aggravated assault on a police officer during an arrest, possession of burglary tools, possession of CDS, resisting arrest and unlawful possession of a weapon, along with a slew of motor-vehicle offenses.
One officer was taken to the hospital for injuries.
Whether or not the ATV is stolen remains to be seen, as none of the vehicle identification numbers remain on it.
Harrison Firefighter Cristina Sanchez, right, is Harrison’s 2024 Veteran of the Year. With her last week at a presentation ceremony in Jersey City are, from left, Rich Rietbuger and Councilman Larry Bennett, on representing the the mayor and Town Council.
Students were rockin’ n rollin’ at Harrison’s Hamilton School
By Laura Comppen Special to The Observer
Students at Hamilton Intermediate School are rockin’ their way to an awesome start of the school year. Participating in part of Rock Your School — a five-year international event encompassing over 100,000 educators and 2 million students worldwide — Harrison fourth- and fifth-graders have been busy learning through rock & roll-themed lessons, dance breaks, hands-on activities and much more.
From creating mini stages to see which one could hold the most pennies, to solving famous singers’ world problems, to learning the history of rock & roll, students at Hamilton School are now aficionados of the greatest era of American music.
“Rock Your School is an unforgettable day. Seeing the students walk into their rock & roll themed classrooms is simply the best. Our teachers went above and beyond for
this special day and brought their creativity to make every student excited about coming to school. You can see the excitement and joy on their faces, they're ready to learn and have fun. At the end of the day, the best feeling is hearing my students say, Today was the best day ever!" Danielle Paparella, a fourth-grade math and science teacher, said. All of this heightened learning came with a perk. Culminating the week’s activities, students were treated to their very own “The Masked Teachers” edition, where educators dressed in colorful costumes and performed pop songs from Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift, et al, much to the enthusiastic delight of their students.
“Rock Your School was so much fun … I enjoyed every second of it. The entire school was decorated so well and we all got T-shirts so the whole class matched. I loved this day,” fifth-grader Omnia Kandil said.
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Si Ud vive en Kearny, es dueño de su propia casa, y su salario bruto anual está bajo el límite de ingr eso para el tamaño de la familia, Ud. podría ser
programa.
Los usos elegibles para los fondos sonn:
Este programa está patrocinado por el Pueblo de Kearny
BELLEVILLE 3rd fl. Recently Renovated,1 BR, LR, Kitchen with new appliances. $1,600 + 1 1/2 months security. No Pets/Smoking Avl. Now. (973) 985-8188 27W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
HARRISON 2nd floor
2 BR’s, EIK $1900 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate No Pets
Available December 1st (973)415-4102 27W03
HARRISON 1st floor
3 BR’s, LR, EIK, 1 Bath 1.5 months security Utilities separate, No Pets/Smoking Available Now (973)714-2368 or (201)463-6303 28W03
HARRISON 1st fl, 2 BR,LR, EIK, freshly painted, New Bathroom, New floor, bright & spacious, Good location, $2100 + 1.5 month security, 1 year lease. utilities separate (646)544-4912 Please leave message 28W03
KEARNY 3 BR’s, EIK. $2375 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No pets/Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 26W03
KEARNY
Recently renovated 2 BR First floor apartment. LR, DR, EIK. Washer/dry hook up. No Pets/Smoking. Credit report. $2100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Near Transportation. Available January 1st (973)838-1662 26W06
KEARNY 2nd fl. 3 BR, LR combined with DR , 2 bathrooms, no pets/ smoking, no Parking, laundry inside apartment, C/A $2700 + 1 1/2 months security Utilities not included Avl. Now (201) 2064845 27W03
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 Now (551)253-4149 Leave detailed message 27W03
KEARNY Newly constructed 1ST floor $2800 & 2ND Floor $2700 both have 3 BR’s & 2 Baths, New appliances in kitchen. 1.5 months security Utilities separate, No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)725-9687 28W03
KEARNY small apartment for rent right on Kearny Ave. Third floor, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom & kitchenette. *Utilities not included.* No broker fee call (201) 9913366 27W03
KEARNY 2nd floor
3 BR’s EIK $2400 + 1 months security Utilities separate No Pets/ smoking Available December 15th (914)6458263 28W03
KEARNY 3rd floor in a quit family oriented home. LR, BR, Bath, kitchenette, “Micro & Refrigerator No stove”. Utilities included no pets/smoking $1200 + 1.5 months security (973)668-8305 28W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 3
BR’s, LR, EIK with Island, DR $3600 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate, Washer/dryer in laundry room No pets/ smoking available Now (862)588-4864 27W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2 bedroom, LR, EIK carpeted $1600 + 1 months security Utilities separate, heat supplied no pets/smoking Available Now (201)726-8516 28W03
N.ARLINGTON 1st Floor 2 BR’s, LR, Kitchen, Bath, DR $2100 + security, Utilities Separate No Pets/Smoking Close to Transportation
Available now(201)6001211 26W03
N.ARLINGTON 3rd fl. 4 rooms, 2 BR’s, EIK, LR, Newly renovated, 1 block from NYC transportation. Walking distance to schools, shopping and parks. No pets. No smoking. 1.5 months security. 1 car Garage avl. for additional price. Please call (973) 517-1342 27W03
N.ARLINGTON
One bedroom
3 room apartment in an apartment complex. Excellent location, near stores and transportation.$1800.00 per month, one month security. Heat and hot water provided. Laundry on premises and one parking space available. Storage in basement. No smoking and no pets. Adults preferred. Please call between 10:00am and 7:00pm: 201-997-2341 27W03
KEARNY Share Kitchen & Bathroom, 1 room $750 2nd room $800 No pets/smoking Women preferred available now (201)6734402 28W03
N.NEWARK Forest Hill section. $700 + 1 months security. Utilities included. Shared Bath, No Kitchen. No smoking (973) 7526877 28W03
LYNDHURST Large
1 BR apartment, fully renovated with new kitchen and flooring. Eat In Kitchen with new appliances, Large Living Room, Dining Room and Bath. Rent: $1900 Security: 1.5 months rent Utilities are separate, Landlord pays for Cold Water No Pets No Smoking Contact: 201693-3480 27W03
LYNDHURST Basement apartment, 1 BR, Kitchen, LR $1450 + 1 months security Utilities & Laundry room included Couple or single person preferred No Pets/Smoking Available December 1st (201)887-5191 28W03
NUTLEY 2nd Fl. 2 BR’S , 4 room apt for rent. Move In condition Large EIK, LR , HW floors, AC provided $1,900 + 1.5 months security, No pets, No smoking, Close to NY transportation. Call Tom 973-517-7517 Available 12/01 Credit check a must Leave a verbal message 27W03
KEARNY Rare vacancy in quiet house, for 1 person To rent a large room with your own sink & refrigerator. utilities included. Close to public transportation. Street parking available. Positively no smoking/ pets. Gentlemen preferred. Good credit rating. 4 weeks security required. $175 weekly. Call or text Pamela (973) 830-7498 28W03
KEARNY 9.5 x 20.5 available for storage $240 per month + 1 months security 201-284-0898 or 201-280-1868 27W03
HARRSION/E.NEWARK
Single car garage for rent & parking spaces for vans, trucks and cars. Grand Ave available now (862)571-4823 28W03
PRINCIPAL REGISTERED ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST
The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for a Principal Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS). Under direction of the Health Officer, responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Supervising Environmental Health Specialists, sanitary inspections for compliance with applicable public and environmental health regulations, investigations of nuisance complaints and violations of applicable public health laws and ordinance, educational outreach activities, maintenance of accurate paper and electronic records of surveys, investigations, and inspections performed, lead inspections of rental dwelling units, and other duties or special projects as required or as assigned. The position may require periodic evening and/or weekend activities. Must possess an active Registered Environmental Health Specialist License issued by the NJ Department of Health and have a minimum of four years of professional experience as an REHS. Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor permit issued by the NJ Department of Health preferred but not required. Appointees will be required to possess a current driver’s license valid in New Jersey. Salary dependent upon qualifications. please add to download an application at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ and deliver application to Town of Kearny Personnel Dept, 410 Kearny Avenue Kearny NJ 07032 28W03
PROGRAM MONITOR
The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for a part-time Program Monitor. Under direction of the Health Officer, responsibilities include, but are not limited to reviewing, observing and reporting on contracted funded programs to ascertain whether or not these programs are carried out in accord with contractual agreements or guidelines and does other related duties as required. This position may require periodic evening and/or weekend activities. Must possess a driver’s license valid in NJ. Ability to speak multiple languages is preferred. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or a Master’s in Public Health. Salary is $35-45/hour based on qualifications and 29.5 hours per week.please add to download an application at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ and deliver application to Town of Kearny Personnel Dept, 410 Kearny Avenue Kearny NJ 07032 28W03
COMMUNITY SERVICE AIDE
The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for a part-time Community Service Aide. Under direction of the Health Educator, this individual will assist with the community health needs assessment process; conduct field and office work involved in interviewing community residents; conduct outreach efforts; assist community residents in obtaining social services or other government aid and support service; provide educational and awareness programs on COVID-19 and other infectious diseases targeting disproportionately served communities; does other health department duties as required. Must possess a driver’s license valid in NJ. Ability to speak multiple languages is preferred. Applicant must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English. Salary is $30/hour and 29.5 hours per week. please add to download an application at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ and deliver application to Town of Kearny Personnel Dept, 410 Kearny Avenue Kearny NJ 07032 28W03
BOOKKEEPING Bank Reconciliation, Payroll, Journal Entry Work with MS Word, Excel & Quickbooks. Em ail resume to ncoco@verizon.net 27W03
Dishwasher wanted Part time Friday and Saturday nights in busy Lyndhurst restaurant Call (201)935-0004 28W03
for Seniors, certified HHA fluent in English with over 20 years of experience and great references. Agnes (347) 622-1337 26W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
require
and/or
activities. Must possess an active Registered Environmental Health Specialist License issued by the NJ Department of Health. Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor permit issued by the NJ Department of Health preferred but not required. Appointees will be required to possess a current driver’s license valid in New Jersey. please add to download an application at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ and deliver application to Town of Kearny Personnel Dept, 410 Kearny Avenue Kearny NJ 07032 28W03
JABLONSKI
Continued from Page 1
the Public Defender and was a municipal public defender for the Town of Kearny. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the College of the Holy Cross and his law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School at Western Michigan University.
“I thank Judge Jablonski for his leadership of the Hudson Vicinage,” Rabner said. “He has faced enormous personal challenges this past year and handled them with grace while he balanced the demands of the position of assignment judge. I am confident he will continue to serve with excellence in the Appellate Division.”
Katz has served on the
bench in Essex County since 2008. He was assigned to the General Equity Division from 2013 to 2018. He is the past president of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges and the chair of the Supreme Court Family Practice Committee.
“My experience with the national council showed me that New Jersey’s court system really sets a national
standard in terms of innovation and reform, and in terms of its commitment to fairness and accessibility,” Judge Katz said. “I hope to continue that fine tradition of excellence in Hudson County, and I thank Chief Justice Rabner for placing his confidence in me.”
Katz is a former mayor of Livingston and served as an EMT for his local first aid squad.
‘I thank Judge Jablonski for his leadership of the Hudson Vicinage. He has faced enormous personal challenges this past year and handled them with grace while he balanced the demands of the position of assignment judge. I am confident he will continue to serve with excellence in the Appellate Division.’
— Stuart Rabner Chief Justice State of New Jersey
PBA, fMBA, CS-11 & THe observer’s thanksgiving food drive
KEARNY PBA NO. 21, FMBA 18/218, CS-11 AND THE OBSERVER ARE TEAMING UP TO COLLECT TURKEYS AND ALL THE TRIMMINGS FOR THANKSGIVING TO DONATE TO A LOCAL FOOD PANTRY, COLLECTION IS UNDERWAY FOR THANKSGIVING. (EXCESS FOOD COLLECTED WILL BE DISTRIBUTED AT CHRISTMAS).
ITEMS MOST NEEDED INCLUDE: boxes of stufFing mix, boxes of mashed potatoes, boxes of cornbread or muffIn mixes, boxes of dessert mixes.
DROPOFF LOCATIONS AND TIMES ARE LISTED BELOW. AND WE THANK EACH AND EVERY DONOR SINCERELY AND GRATEFULLY FOR YOUR GENEROSITY.
