Regulations
e-bikes & e-scooters coming to Kearny Jan. 1, 2025 Page 2
REMEMBERING ‘THE REV’
n Benson was Kearny PD chaplain for many years, until his death, in 2016
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The Rev. Frank Benson was, for many years, the chaplain to the Kearny Police Department. He was so much a part of the department’s fabric that many years ago, retired Chief John P. Dowie purchased a full uniform for him — decked out with chaplain’s bars — which he wore, proudly, often to significant events and when he would do ride-alongs once per month different members of the department.
“The Rev” as he was affectionately known, was also the longtime pastor of the Knox Presbyterian Church on Kearny Avenue through 1996. (The church ultimately closed its doors in 2013.) At retirement,
The Rev. moved to Hackettstown, but he remained the KPD’s chaplain for 20 more years and would often make the 50-mile journey back to Kearny whenever someone, or the department itself, was in need.
The Edinburgh, Scotland, native died Jan. 4, 2016, aged 84.
But his legacy continues to this very day in so many ways.
One such instance was when Mina Ekladious, the Kearny Police Department’s union president, saw to it that a new shell for recreation crew was named after The Rev. And two weekends ago, with his wife, Paula, former colleagues and current police officers present, the shell was
See THE REV, Page 19
the
two weeks ago
Photos courtesy of Jerry Ficeto
Deacon James Mackintosh, left, a former Kearny police officer, and the KPD’s unofficial historian, offers a blessing at
ceremony
as PBA President Mina Ekladious and Chief Scott Macfie look on. Inset: A plaque honoring ‘The Rev.’ One was presented to his widow, another hangs at KPD headquarters.
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
For months, Councilman George Zapata, chairman of the Town Council’s ordinance committee, worked with the committee and Town Attorney James Bruno to devise an ordinance to properly regulate lowspeed e-bikes and low-speed e-scooters one often sees in Kearny. And now, thanks to all of that hard work, Kearny finally has regulations to govern their usage.
Parents and children alike should be aware of all of these regulations, too, since along
Ken Davie
with them, come potentially significant fines for violations of the new town law.
First, we’ll break down the new regulations as clearly as possible. All of these regulations take effect Jan. 1, 2025. Low speeds e-bikes and scooters are those with an electric motor of no more than 750 watts. Any bike with higher wattages are prohibited for use in Kearny and fall under the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission’s jurisdiction. The bikes and scooters may go no faster than 19 milesper-hour. Anyone who rides
Violators Subject to Fines Between $100
- $1,250
Town
Signs like what one sees here will soon appear in various locations throughout Kearny.
one of these bikes must follow state traffic rules, including, but not limited to obeying traffic lights, stop signs, yield signs, etc.
Whenever being used in darkness (nighttime), the bikes must be equipped with a white light/lamp that must be visible from a distance of 500 feet or less. The rear of the bikes must emit a red light visible form that same distance. A red reflector may also be used in addition to the required lamps and should be visible from 50 to 300 feet away.
All bikes must be equipped with a bell or device capable of giving an audible signal for at least 100 feet. Those devices may not, however, be air horns, whistles or sirens of any kind.
All bike operators (for the sake of this story, bikes include scooters) must keep their feet fixed onto pedals of the travel bar foot rests. Riders may not operate the bikes with their hands removed from the handlebars and may not perform trick moves.
Continued on the next page
TOWN OF KEARNY, LARGE FINES POSSIBLE
Continued from previous page
Perhaps the most important of all the new regulations? Only one person may ride on each bike — passengers are strictly prohibited. Riders may also not grab onto any moving vehicle for a “lift.” All operators are required, regardless of age, wear a helmet approved by the American National Standards Institute or the Snell Memorial Foundation’s 1990 Standard for Protective Headgear for Use in Bicycling.
Riding on a sidewalk in a residential area is only permitted for those 13 or younger.
On streets such as those designated part of the Urban Enterprise Zone — commercial zones — no one may ride on sidewalks. While on such bikes, riders may not carry unsecured packages that would cause an inability to hold onto handlebars with two hands.
Bikes may not be parked on streets. When parked on sidewalks, they not impede normal pedestrian flow. Bikes may not be operated faster than 19 MPH or in any way that could endanger the welfare of pedestrians or property.
Bikes may not be stored in-
side any apartment or hallway in town. Building owners may offer permission — if so desired — to store bikes in garages or storage areas inside apartment buildings.
Any business that owns, rents, hires or leases bikes for the delivery of items must place the town’s regulations, in full, in a conspicuous location. Riders performing official business must wear a reflective vest and some kind of marking noting the bike is being used for commerce.
Lastly, the fines for violations:
A violation of this chapter will require a court appearance if such violation resulted in personal injury or property damage, and will be subject to a fine not to exceed $1,250. Where there has been no personal injury or property damage, each person violating any provisions of this law upon first conviction will be liable to a penalty of $100, and upon a second conviction, a penalty of $300. A court appearance will be required for a third or subsequent alleged offense, with fines not to exceed $1,250.
To the extent permitted
by law, a parent may be held responsible for violations committed by a child of a parent younger than 18.
Meanwhile, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle says she’s pleased with the new regulations and hopes others are, too.
“This ordinance is a long time coming,” Doyle said. “The popularity of the bikes and scooters have grown and with that, so do the dangers. Nobody is universally safe — not the people driving the streets, not the pedestrians and especially those on e-bikes and motorized scooters. There were no definitive rules to now, and so for the council and me, we now have an ordinance in place with enforcement powers to hopefully keep everyone safe.”
n
The new law takes effect midnight, Jan. 1, 2025 — so you’ve got about six weeks to prepare. These new regulations do not necessarily apply to surrounding towns. You have been forewarned and forearmed.
Sandler takes time to visit with Kearny residents
from
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Presented by Jarlynn Hyde Broker/Owner
LOAN BUYING A HISTORIC HOME APPROVAL
Pa. man seriously injured in Fish House Road crash, JC woman charged
The Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit and the Kearny Police Department are investigating a motor vehicle crash that seriously injured a Pennsylvania man in the early morning hours of Friday, Nov. 15, 2024.
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com HUDSON CTY PROSECUTOR
vania man, suffered serious injuries. He was transported to Jersey City Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition.
At approximately half past midnight, the Kearny PD was notified of a collision in the area of Newark-Jersey City Turnpike and Fish House Road. Responding officers located a Jeep Compass that had struck a Ford F-150. The driver of the Ford, a 56-year-old Pennsyl -
During a preliminary investigation, Kearny PD arrested the driver of the striking vehicle — Maria Molesky, 33, of Jersey City — and issued her motor vehicle summonses charging reckless driving and driving while intoxicated.
Many people dream of buying and living in a historic home as it offers a chance to own a piece of history. However, these houses can come with particular issues that newer homes don’t have. Historic homes are determined and then monitored by the National Park Service. Just because a house is old doesn’t mean it’s registered as historic. There is a federal list of historic homes called the National Register of Historic Places, but states and municipalities can also designate a home or district as locally historical. A knowledgeable real estate agent can effectively guide buyers through this unique home purchasing process. Keep in mind that there is a commitment on the homeowner’s part to maintain the home’s integrity.
Historic homes often require repairs and renovations, which can be pricey. However, many buyers feel these will be offset by the charm, character, and craftsmanship of the house, not to mention potential tax incentives and benefits that often accompany the ownership of a historic property. Can we help you find the home of your dreams? We have extensive experience in discovering just what our buyers have been searching for as well as an impressive record of finding the sellers our buyers are looking for. We’ll help you too; just call us. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”
The Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit and the Kearny Police Department are actively investigating this case. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Office of the Hudson County Prosecutor at 201-915-1345 or to leave an anonymous tip at www.hudsoncountyprosecutorsofficenj.org/homicide-tip . All information will be kept confidential.
Well, you no doubt know Adam Sandler was in Kearny the last few weeks filming ‘Happy Gilmore II’ for Netflix. While he was here, he took time to chat with,
the left, Anthony Schementi, The Observer’s Lisa Feorenzo, Carol Schementi, Barbara Dunne, Sandler and Charles Schementi.
Photo courtesy of Lisa Feorenzo
Nutley’s Mud Hole mitigation project underway
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Amitigation project at Memorial Park (the Mud Hole) is underway and is expected to be completed sometime in December, Commissioner Mauro G. Tucci said. The project, which kicked off earlier this month, is being undertaken in response to the damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida in 2021.
On Sept. 1, 2021, the Township of Nutley experienced significant damage from the remnants of Ida, particularly affecting its park system following severe flooding.
Shortly thereafter, a collaborative project was launched with FEMA to cover the costs associated with the damages to Nutley parks. The project was classified as Category G, meaning any proposed mitigation for resilience must occur within the park system and could not be allocated to other efforts, such as elevating or acquiring flood-prone homes.
Mitigation efforts for the Mud Hole were proposed at $580,000, which were approved and will be reimbursed to the township by FEMA. Repairs were successfully completed, and the township submitted plans to
FEMA for mitigation strategies.
“The mitigation project involves clearing debris and items that have accumulated in the Mud Hole during storms, creating additional capacity for stormwater storage,” Tucci said. “The goal of this project is to alleviate and prevent some of the flooding we experienced during Ida and increase retention
space for flood waters during future storm events.”
Implementing various mitigation strategies will facilitate stormwater runoff management, thereby reducing the volume of damaging floodwaters and protecting homes and infrastructure. The mitigation of the Mud Hole should be viewed as an initial step among many taken by the township to
enhance resilience for future flooding events, officials said.
“We ask everyone to be patient while we work to make our beloved park system the best it can be,” Tucci said. “Unfortunately, there is no single solution to flooding in a municipality. However, this project will go a long way toward better protecting the Mud Hole and the homes adjacent to it.”
OPINION & VIEWPOINTS
COMMENT
The election of 2025 in Kearny could be like something not seen here in decades
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
With the election of 2024 over, it is already time to turn to the next one in Kearny — and this one promises to be one for the history books.
Five seats are up — the mayor’s and one of each of the four wards on the Town Council. Seeking re-election will likely be Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, First Ward Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro, Second Ward Councilman Richard Konopka, Third Ward Councilman Fred Esteves and Fourth Ward Councilman Jerry Ficeto.
In previous years, all five would have run on the same ticket, but this is nothing like previous years. So there’s a likelihood Doyle, DeCastro, Esteves and Ficeto will run on a ticket that would include a newcomer in the Second Ward. Based on how things have gone over the last yearplus, there’s very little reason to believe, barring an 11th-hour reconciliation, Doyle would include Konopka on her team. So this then opens up the possibility the Democrats could have slate of five candidates, with Konopka on it, if he even runs. But then, after that, it’s anyone’s
Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
guess who the candidates could or would be. Would anyone who formerly sat on the council consider running again? Could a former mayor or mayors consider a run? We will soon find out.
And then there’s the Republicans. Jorge D. Santos has a tremendous showing in 2024, despite minimal campaigning. He rode the “red wave” that allowed Donald Trump to win Kearny’s vote. And considering next year is a gubernatorial election, it would make complete sense if the GOP ran a full slate of candidates — something that has not happened in Kearny in decades.
Sydney J. Ferreira, just last a few weeks ago in an interview with The Observer, didn’t reveal his plans, but we’d be stunned if he wasn’t on some ticket.
There have also been rumblings a former Republican mayor of Kearny could throw his hat in the ring, too. Could you even begin to imagine if that were to happen?
No matter what, next year is already shaping up to be one of the most memorable local elections in a long time. Get ready folks.
It’s going to be a very interesting — and likely long and exhausting — ride.
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Remembering Bill Pascrell
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In November 2018, the late U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell paid one of his many visits to Kearny. This time, he spent the day with The Observer’s Kevin Canessa as the pair toured numerous businesses on Kearny Avenue. That day, all he wanted to do was meet people. And that’s just what he did. May Pascrell rest in peace. He is certainly missed already.
Pez collection on display at library
ABy Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
man who fell asleep at the wheel of his car was not just under the influence of drugs — but he also had a good number of wax folds of heroin in his vehicle to boot, and he now finds himself in some serious hot water, the Lyndhurst Police Department said.
On Monday, Nov. 12, 2024, at 4:58 p.m., officers responded to the DeJessa Bridge, at Riverside Avenue and Kingsland avenues, to investigate a report of a vehicle stopped in the roadway obstructing traffic. Officers Glenn Flora, James Colacci and Sal Wartel arrived shortly thereafter and discovered a Ford Escape stopped in the east bound lane. They determined the vehicle had just traveled over the bridge from Nutley. The officers approached the vehicle and found the driver, Austin Gilchrist, 23, of Lyndhurst, to be unconscious and
slumped over the steering wheel. Additionally, the vehicle was locked but running while still in the drive position.
After attempts to wake Gilchrist failed, they had to force entry into the vehicle. The police presence did not immediately wake Gilchrist and caused the officers to believe he may have been under the influence.
Once Gilchrist regained his consciousness, the officers assisted him out of the vehicle. It was at that time they discovered a wax fold containing heroin and other drug related contraband.
Additionally, Gilchrist was found to be in possession of 53 wax folds of heroin.
Gilchrist was arrested and charged with possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, being under the influence of a controlled-dangerous substance and driving while under the influence.
He was later released on his own recognizance, pending court.
The Lyndhurst Library recently began a program called ‘Community Collectibles,’ where residents are able to temporarily display their personal collections at the library’s main entrance for all to view. Lyndhurst resident Mark DeForge lent a portion of his large Pez collection to be displayed for the next couple of months.
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) 258482 or visit donors.vitalant. org (using blood drive code X126).
Happy hour will benefit Kearny Food Pantry
Several members of the Kearny Town council are sponsoring a happy hour fundraiser in support of the food pantry at Grace United Methodist Church.
Councilmembers George Zapata, Dennis Solano and Stathis Theodoropoulos will join Erin Ferrier and the owners of Cantina da Serra Thursday, 360 Kearny Ave., Nov. 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. for the event. In those hours, 20% of all proceeds from food and drink purchases will be donated to the food pantry. They’ll also
NEWS BRIEFS
be collecting non-perishable food items that day.
Food pantry available second Saturday each month at Belleville church
Wesley Methodist Church and Gosen Church at 225 Washington Ave., Belleville, opens its food pantry from 9 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of each month. The public is welcome to attend. Donations of non-perishable food are being accepted, including canned goods, pancake mix and syrup, hygiene items, paper towels and toilet paper, instant coffee, oatmeal, bottled juice, individual snacks, boxes of cereal, peanut butter and jelly and mac and cheese.
For more information, contact Dana (201) 706-1104 (English) or Pastor Michael
(551) 399-9931 (Español.)
Patrons from all communities are welcome. ID is not required.
Salvation Army of Kearny 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.
Girl Scouts, American Legion collecting socks for veterans Kearny Girl Scouts and American Legion Auxiliary Post 99 are collecting socks throughout Novem-
ber for veterans. Donations are being accepted at four locations starting Nov. 1 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.
EPIC hosting holiday party at Lincoln Middle School
Extraordinary Parents of Incredible Children — EPIC — hosts a “Very Special Holiday Party” with the Lincoln Middle School PTSA Dec. 14, from 3 to 6 p.m. The party will include games & crafts, live music and dancing, vendors, Santa and more. Register at www.eventbrite. com/e/a-very-special-holidayparty-an-event-for-specialneeds-students-in-kearnytickets-1049277837257.
Harrison Rec soccer team makes it to final
The Harrison Recreation/Harrison F.C. Travel Soccer U-11 team Deportivo were finalists in the State of New Jersey’s U.S. Youth Soccer President’s Cup 2024. Front row from left, Dawa Tenzin, Adrian Blanco, Lorenzo Blanco, Lucas Kutlu, Sonam Sangpo, Sammy Quiroz Jr. and Caio Santiago. Second row left, Yeshua Moreano, Lucas Holgado, Fabio Guerrero, Ethan Jacome, Lukas Guevara, Ethan Tejada and Aiden Tenzin. Back row from left, Larry Kelly, Harrison Recreation, Councilman Mike Dolaghan, Head Coach Robin Guevara, Coach Sammy Quiroz Sr., and Harrison F.C. Program Director John Guevara.
SPORTS & HEALTH
GROUP CHAMPIONS!
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
As coaches with the Harrison boys soccer program for more than two decades, head coach Mike Rusek Jr. and his brother/assistant coach John know more than anyone that sectional and state titles are expected every year.
But even with that standard, excuse them for perhaps being a little surprised that this year’s Blue Tide team has added to the decades long championship pedigree. The latest Harrison boys soccer title came on Friday night as the Blue Tide defeated Hackettstown, 1-0, in the NJSIAA
North 2, Group 2 final in Harrison.
It is the second sectional title in three years for Harrison and the 13th in the 25 seasons Rusek Jr. has been head coach.
Harrison (18-5-2) will host North 1, Group 2 champion Glen Rock (16-3-2) in the Group 2 semifinals on Tuesday at 5 p.m. at Harrison High School. Tuesday’s winner will play for the overall Group 2 championship on Sunday at Franklin High School.
“This one is especially meaningful because September and October were full of ups and downs with this team,” Rusek said. “The previous two years, we were really confident with the
group of returning players that we had. In 2022, we had a really strong group of juniors and seniors. And then last year, 2023, we had still a strong group of returning players from that previous year. But for the most part, this group of players that we’ve had played a lot of time on JV or they were coming in off the bench with us.”
One of those first year starters for Harrison (18-52) has been Frank Barrera, who missed all of last year due to a broken clavicle. Barrera, a senior forward, scored his fifth goal of the state tournament when he headed in a Christopher Pereira corner kick in the 29th minute of the final.
Four of Barrera’s goals this postseason have come off of restarts or crosses into the box from Pereira.
“(Christopher’s) got a natural left footed swing, and actually, he went over to the right side to take that corner,” said Rusek.,”Usually you have a right footed player take the corner and the ball kind of swings out. But I think Frank prefers Chris taking it as a lefty. It kind of swings in towards the goal. That ball was curving inwards and Frank just really advanced it with that header. He was up high, he hit it perfectly. And I don’t even think the goalie knew it went in until he turned and it was in the back of the net. It was just almost a profes-
sional type of goal.”
Francisco Appolo made 10 saves to earn the shutout for Harrison, the team’s second of the postseason.
The Pereira to Barrera connection has been a constant during this state tournament, as well as first half leads that Harrison has been able to protect.
After convincing early round wins over Mendham and Lyndhurst, Harrison had to go on the road on Tuesday to Madison for the semifinals. While the Blue Tide have largely struggled away from home this season, this time saw Harrison jump out to a quick 2-0 lead with first half goals by Barrera
HARRISON, Page 12
Photo courtesy of Milton Velez
Lyndhurst volleyball completes dream season
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
For months now, Steve Vahalla has sensed that this year’s Lyndhurst girls volleyball team was going to be special.This group can add some more words to describe themselves. Historic and champions.
This past Tuesday, this group cemented its status as one of the successful teams in Lyndhurst history when it defeated Mendham, 23-25, 25-11, 25-17 in the North 2, Group 2 final. It is Lyndhurst’s first sectional
title in girls volleyball since 1990 and gave the Bears a school record 24 wins for the season.
“As our 2024 season began to approach and we start-
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ed playing in the Harrison Summer League, I knew we had something special brewing,” Valhalla said.
“After winning the Harrison Summer League Champion-
ship and starting our preseason, I sensed a strong team bond and a group of girls that all really loved each other. Throughout the first few weeks of our season, the play I witnessed was incredible. This group of girls really understood each other and they wanted to achieve our team’s goals.
Lyndhurst found itself in an early 20-9 hole to start the match and while it ultimately dropped the first set, the comeback helped set the tone for the rest of the contest.
“I knew they were going to have some nerves being in a
See VOLLEYBALL, Page 12
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Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. It occurs when the facial nerve, which controls the muscles of the face, becomes inflamed or compressed, which leads to a drooping appearance on the affected side. This can impact the ability to close the eye, smile, or wrinkle the forehead. The exact cause of Bell’s palsy is unknown, but it is often associated with viral infections, such as herpes simplex. While the onset of symptoms can be alarming, the majority of individuals recover fully within three to six months, although some may experience lingering effects. Treatment typically includes corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and, in some cases, antiviral
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Photo courtesy of Steve Vahalla
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
As he entered his senior year, Harrison’s Frank Barrera had a goal in mind for this season, one that most would have considered ambitious considering he had never scored a varsity goal before.
“I set my goal as 20 goals this season at the beginning,” said Barrera. “I’m just happy that I was able to accomplish that.”
Not only did Barrera reach the 20-goal mark, the way he reached the milestone and what that goal represented won’t soon be forgotten.
In the 29th minute of Harrison’s North 2, Group 2 final against Hackettstown, Barrera headed in Christopher Pereira’s corner kick to score what proved to be the only goal of the game giving the Blue Tide
its second sectional title in three years.
For Barrera, not only was it his 20th goal of the season, but the fifth in four state tournament games for the forward.
Barrera’s incredible state tournament run makes him The Observer Athlete of Week.
“It feels amazing, scoring such an important goal,”
Barrera said. “I love this town, Harrison, and especially my boys, my team, and just making that goal means a lot to me.”
“Twenty goals is difficult to do nowadays,” said head coach Mike Rusek, admitting he didn’t anticipate 20 goals from Barrera going into the season. “Our league is much better (than in the past). Every game was tight
big situations where they were the first goal or the game winning goal.”
There’s no bigger time than the state tournament and that’s where Barrera has been at his best, scoring at least one goal in each of the Blue Tide’s four state games as it has defeated Mendham, Lyndhurst and Madison before the final.
Four of those five goals have come courtesy of Pereira sending the ball into the box on restarts or crosses to Barrera, who’s combination of size and nimble feet have given Harrison an aerial component to restarts it’s rarely had over the years.
“To have a guy that’s that
strong in the air, we’re not even used to it as coaches,” Rusek said. “So he won the game for us on both ends. The way I look at it, because I really feel like in a normal year for us, without him on the field, one of those long (Hackettstown) throw-ins would’ve connected with a down forward or one of their heads, and it would’ve went in the goal and we we would’ve been tied up. But Frank headed them all out on the defensive end, coming back as a forward.
“It’s a pleasant surprise for the coaching staff and for the whole program that we have
See ATHLETE, Page 12
and close. So of the 20 goals, I would probably say 15 out of the 20 were in really, really
Nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia) are vision conditions that usually start in childhood. Presbyopia is a different type of vision loss that happens to everyone as they age. It causes the eye’s focusing system to slow down, making it more difficult to switch focus from near to far objects. Many people begin to notice presbyopia after age 40, but some women have more noticeable or sudden visual challenges in midlife because of hormonal changes that begin happening years before menopause is complete. Women have estrogen receptors in every cell in their bodies, and certain parts of the eyes seem more affected by hormonal fluctuations than others: the tear ducts, meibo-
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P.S. Girls entering puberty may notice visual changes that fluctuate on a daily or weekly basis. Readers (over-thecounter glasses) may help with frequent vision changes more than prescription lenses.
Photo courtesy of Milton Velez Frank Barrera
HARRISON
Continued from Page 9
and Angello Tenazoa, taking advantage of having the wind at their backs for the start of the 2-1 victory.
“We said to them at the start of that game, let’s make Madison pay (for wanting to be against the wind in the first half) on that. Let’s get
VOLLEYBALL
Continued from Page 10
sectional final,” Valhalla said. “Although those nerves were shown early in the first set, as soon as we began to gain momentum and play our game, I knew we were going to be fine. It took a lot of heart and fight to get back into that first set and the confidence we gained towards the end of that set allowed us to control the rest of the match.”
A dominant second set led to a decisive third set. It was then where the Be ars truly started to pull away with a 14-5 run that gave Lyndhurst a 19-10 lead in the third. Moments later, the championship was clinched when a Mendham serve sailed out of bounds for the winning point.
“The girls knew what was at stake,” said Vahal -
ATHLETE
Continued from Page 11
someone that’s just that effective in the air. For a big guy, he’s got really soft feet, which is a rarity sometimes. You see he put the ball on the ground and just dribble at people. You’re like, wow, that was impressive on that end too. So he’s really an exceptional
a goal or two early and see how they can adjust in the second half,” Rusek said. “We didn’t want to be in zero zero going against the wind. So we were fortunate enough that we had a two zero with them having to try to build up from there.”
Every other game in the state tournament has been at home for Harrison, where it has dominated,
la, specifically citing the play of captains Asya Akar and Yasemin Ugurlu as key during the run. “They worked hard all season to be in that exact moment.”
Akar finished with a team-high 10 kills to go with four digs, while Ugurlu added six kills, four blocks and 10 digs. Sofia Hechavarria had two of her seven kills in that decisive stretch, while also producing four blocks and four digs. Kiana Marizan dished out 20 assists.
Two days later, Lyndhurst traveled up to Old Tappan in the Group 2 semifinals to face an Old Tappan team that was undefeated and the reigning Bergen County champions. And while the hosts ended Lyndhurst’s season with a 25-17, 25-16 victory, the Bears showed they belonged on the same court with one of the state’s
forward and we’re really lucky that he’s come around the way he has.”
Barrera was expected to have a notable role last year as a junior, but those hopes were dashed in Harrison’s final scrimmage when he fouled on a hard slide tackle and suffered a broken clavicle
The injury sidelined him for all of his junior season and in hindsight left a huge void in
going 12-0-2.
Friday night saw the Blue Tide add to its championship legacy, but as Rusek was reminded after by some of his former players and longtime supporters of the program, Harrison’s legacy is one of state championships. So there is still more work left to go in order to reach its ultimate goal of a 26th state title.
premier programs.
Akar and Ugurlu had five kills apiece with Hechavarria adding four in a match that the Bears may have lost, but ultimately proved that they belonged in the conversation of North Jersey’s best teams.
“We really surprised Old Tappan by the way we came out playing. We were serving, blocking, hitting and passing very well throughout the first 15 points of each set,” Valhalla said. “We stayed with the No. 4 team in the state and eventual Group 2 champion for the majority of the match and I am really proud of how we finished our season.
“Lyndhurst Volleyball is a force and it took a lot of hard work and dedication for these girls to be mentioned alongside some of the best programs in the state and Bergen County.”
the Blue Tide offense.
“For me it was very frustrating,” said Barrera, who was healed in time to play club soccer with Ironbound after the season as well as be a starter for Harrison’s county championship volleyball team in the spring. “I was very angry watching them play and me being on the sidelines obviously hurt a lot.”
“We knew he was a good
“I know for how excited I was on Friday, some of the guys, some of the alumni, some of the coaches that we have with us, they were shrugging their shoulders like, okay, we still got two more to go,” Rusek said with a bit of a laugh. “I think for me and John, and I guess my father (Mickey, a volunteer assistant), this has been an unexpected
While more are still to be announced, the honors have already started to come in for this group. Ugurlu, Akar and Hechavarria were all named AllNJIC National Division First Team with Marizan earning Second Team honors and senior middle hitter Gianna DeCoro earning Honorable Mention and Vahalla being selected as the division’s Coach of the Year.
The Bears are sure to have a very different look the next time they take the court with Hechavarria and sophomore opposite Gabriela Kalisiak the only starters set to return. Thursday’s loss might have been an emotional end to a journey months, if not years in the making, but its one that won’t soon be forgotten either by the players and coaches that helped put Lyndhurst volleyball on the
player (coming from JV), but we didn’t know how important he was going to be on varsity,” Rusek said. “Looking back at it, I sure wish we were able to get a look last year. He would’ve changed the dynamics of last year’s team dramatically.”
Instead, Barrera is making up for lost time. While he will ultimately only have one varsity season with the blue and white, he’s made sure to make
surprise with this group. We’ve had a dream run so far, but there’s guys around me in Harrison that are like, okay, we used to the sectional championship. Now these are the two biggest games. So I gotta get myself back to that mindset where we’re like, okay, we’re not happy with this. We still have two more victories that we need to pull off.”
map in a way it never had been before.
“This was a special year, a special team and a special group of girls that I will never forget!” Valhalla said. “As we ended with a final huddle and a final “Lyndhurst on 3”, I saw some of the girls crying and I started to get emotional too. I like to remind myself that tears mean they care and this was something bigger than the last game. It was a season of hard work, commitment, long nights, tough matches, incredible wins and amazing memories. It was a season of unforgettable memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
“I hope these girls know how important they are and how much high school sports have an impact on their lives - they will remember these moments for years to come!”
it a memorable one.
“This last year, my senior year, my first year of varsity soccer, I was willing to put everything on the line, make everything count,” Barrera said. “I do get jealous sometimes knowing that my friends have two years or more years on varsity than me. But I’m just glad I came out this year and I know I did the best that I can.”
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
OBITUARIES
Carlos Alberto Calouro
Carlos Alberto Calouro, 74, died Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville. He was born in Sao Miguel, Acores, Portugal, and emigrated to the US at the age of 24 and resided in the Ironbound Section of Newark before settling in Harrison 30 years ago.
Georgina Paz
Mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, cousin and friend Georgina Paz (nee Mesa) died surrounded by loved ones on Oct. 26, 2024, at the young age of 66.
Georgina was born in Cuba in the town of Corralillo, Villa Clara, and was the fifth of 10 children. She emigrated to the United States in 1971 at the age of 12 with her parents and seven of her siblings as her two oldest sisters had already married.
Carlos worked for the Heavy and General Construction Laborers Local (LUINA) of Newark from 1984, retiring in 2011. Previously, he worked for Beacon Sweets in Newark for nine years. He proudly served in the Portuguese Army. Carlos was an avid Benfica fan. He most recently became a college soccer fan following Marist Men’s Soccer, particularly his grandson Evan Marques #6.
Son of the late Francisco and Sofia (nee Moreira) Calouro; husband of the late Gilda “Jill” (nee Mota) Calouro; devoted and loving father of Diane Bayas and her husband Miguel and Susan Marques and her husband Carlos; dear brother of the late Jose, Emanuel and Ida; cherished grandfather of Amanda and Tyler Bayas and Evan and Aaron Marques.
The funeral took place at the Buyus Funeral Home, 426 Lafayette St., Newark, NJ 01705. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Newark. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, NJ.
Please visit www.buyusfuneralhome.com for more.
They settled in Harrison which is where she lived the rest of her life. She met and fell in love with her husband, they married in 1974 and began their lives together raising their three daughters. Together they owned and ran a bodega on Harrison Avenue for many years and later incorporated their own company, Carlos Painting.
In 1993, Genaro died suddenly, leaving Georgina widowed at the age of 35, to raise her three daughters alone. She continued to run the painting company until 2020. Anyone who had the pleasure of working with her saw Georgina was an incredibly hard worker, very detailed and was passionate about every job as if it were her own home.
Those who were lucky enough to know Georgi-
na were blessed to know her beautiful and giving soul. Though she always worked long days and hours, she was always ready to help anyone who needed it, whether she was asked or not. Making others happy brought her true joy. She often showed her love by cooking for others and inviting them to her home. Nothing made her happier than having her home filled with her loved ones. She often showed up on her loved ones’ doorsteps surprising them with their favorite meal for their birthdays. Her face would light up when she saw how happy they were to receive it.
Aside from cooking, Georgina loved flowers, taking and receiving pictures, the color purple and doing puzzles with her sisters. The part of her life that brought her the most
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.
B.
happiness were her children and grandchildren. She was always taking pictures to capture all their special moments and finding ways to do all she could for them.
Georgina is predeceased by her husband, Genaro A. Paz, and her parents, Maximiliano and Maria Mesa. She is survived by her daughters Rosemary, Yezenia and Gina, her grandchildren Robin, Angel, Anabelle, and Daniel, and son-in-law Jesus. Georgina also leaves behind her loving sisters, a brother, many nieces,
All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
nephews and cousins.
Family and friends of Georgina visited at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Holy Cross Church, Harrison. The interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Mary Mooney
Mary Mooney, (nee Murphy), 95, died Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, at Hackensack Univer-
Continued on the next page
Mulligan Funeral Home
331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison
WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME
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.
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
Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657
Continued from previous page
sity Medical Center, Hackensack.
Relatives and friends visited at the Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Home, 585 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Our Lady of Sorrows R.C. Church, Kearny. Entombment was in Holy Cross Chapel Mausoleum, North Arlington.
Born in Paisley, Scotland, Mrs. Mooney immigrated to the United States in 1969 and settled in Kearny. She worked in the child support division for the
Hudson County Court System in Jersey City for 25 years before retiring in 1999. Prior, she worked at Prudential in Newark for 15 years.
Mary is survived by her children, James A, Mooney and Rosemary Mooney and her longtime friend, Maria Vasiliades. She was also the aunt of Eileen Evans and Carol Ross.
She was predeceased by her husband, James Mooney and her sister, Eileen Ross and her husband, James.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www. thiele-reid.com.
Joyce M. Okuniewicz
Joyce M. Okuniewicz sadly died Oct. 20, 2024. She was 81. Raised in Kearny, she made her home in Blairstown for the past several years. She was a graduate of Boston University and received both her Ph.D. in physical chemistry and her doctor of veterinary medicine from the University of Minnesota.
Joyce was a devoted friend of animals and took great
pleasure in all wildlife and natural surroundings. To her cousins’ children, she was the caring and concerned “Aunt Joyce” — always eager to learn about their various activities.
Predeceased by her parents, Anthony and Mancia Okuniewicz, she is survived and will be greatly missed by her loving cousins and friends.
A funeral Mass to celebrate Joyce’s life will be celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church, 141 Washington Ave., Kearny, on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, at 10 a.m. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, 340 Ridge Road, North Arlington.
The deadline to submit obituaries to The Observer is at 10 a.m., Mondays
Nutley honors former resident Martha Stewart with street renaming
The Township of Nutley surprised former resident Martha Stewart live on the Drew Barrymore Show recently during a remote broadcast from Elm Place, the street she grew up on, as township officials honorarily named the street “Martha Stewart Place.”
Stewart was raised in the township and is a 1959 Nutley High School graduate.
Mayor John V. Kelly III, along with Commissioners Mauro G. Tucci, Alphonse Petracco and Thomas Evans, joined Stewart’s niece, Sophie Slater,
and nephew Chris Herbert, in a short ceremony unveiling the honorary street sign.
“One of the things I always say is Nutley is a destination in life,” the mayor said as Stewart and Barrymore watched from a studio in Manhattan. “It’s an important destination in life because of people like Martha who are from here who have had so much success in so many different fields. We wanted to honor that legacy here in Nutley so we passed this unanimous proclamation in honor of Martha.”
Franklin School names October Students of the Month
Yvonne Cali, principal of Franklin School in Kearny, has announced the October Students of the Month.
Rim Chahid, Maria Molina Merizalde, Dariel Felipe, Elianna Ramirez, Melani Ruiz Martinez.
Also, Esteban Cardenas, Zion Almanzar, Joshua Oliveira, Matthew Teixeira, Grettel Cedeno Bravo, Teresa Giron, Damaris Novay and Bianca Bellucci.
Also, Lucas Cerqueira, Aaron Sanchez, Mark Bondarenko, Isabella Salcedo, Savannah Andrade, Gaol Domingues Oliveira, Eloah Santos Lima, Mars Churchman West.
Also, Liam Sanchez Perez, Alan Vazquez, Alanis LLerena, Nayara Candida De Freitas, Mikaela Franco, Daleska Castillo Leandres, Ernesto Rodriguez Garcia and Ian Ludena Quevedo.
Also, Esther Vieira, Rafael Araujo, Zoe Coronel Camacho, Noa Castro Carballo, Eunice Cohetero Gomez, Valery Cocuy, Victoria Santos, Liam Sousa Brandao and Olivia Hipolito.
Also, Frank Amaya Cusanero, Julio Rosa Jiminez, Jaydeen Pena Martinez, Daleska Castillo Leandres, Riley Espinal, Nataly Garrido Cabrera, Miranda Montesdeo, Alex Savytskyy.
Also, Justin Novillo, Isabella De Campos, Anastasia Kupiszewska, Mars Churchman-West, Isabella Osorio Abril Llerena Shimokawa, Mia Ramos and Kevin Vasquez Carbajal.
Kearny - 2 Family Home to be Constructed - $1,468,380Luxurious, soon-to-be-constructed 4,900 sqft of living space.Unit 1-two floors of l iving space inc add kit, 2 baths, mst ensuite, 2 add bdrms-ground oversized family rm 2 bdrms, bath -2nd flr mirrors 1st. Located in the heart of Kearny.
Kearny - $115,000 - Delicatessen -
Well Established, beloved staple in Kearny. Fully equipped, turnkey business with a secured customer base - great potential for revenuegreat opportunity to become a business owner.
and a full bath. Full basement. Convenient access to shopping, schools, restaurants, and transportation to NYC.
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
BELLEVILLE Newly renovated 2ND Fl, 2 BR Apt. HT/HW Included. 1 months security. No Pets/Smoking. Washer/ Dryer, AVL.December 1st . Call Maria (973) 759-7077 29W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
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. No Pets/ smoking utilities seperate (646)544-4912 28W03
HARRISON 2nd floor
2 BR’s, LR, Large EIK, Full Laundry room 1.5 months security Utilities separate, Washer/Dryer No Pets/Smoking Available Now (862)7630371 29W03
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 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 EIK $2400 + 1 months security Utilities separate No Pets/ smoking Available December 15th (914)6458263 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
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, 1 Bath, EIK, Spacious LR $2060 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Access to attic for storage Close to Schools & Transportation Available Now (551)209-6948 29W03
KEARNY 1st Floor 3
BR’s, Kitchen, DR & family room, Washer/ Dryer hook-up closed porch Space for car parking access to Small yard $2900 + 1 months security Utilities separate No Pets/smoking Available December 1st (862)273-6541 29W03
KEARNY 3rd fl. 2 BR’s, LR, EIK. $2,100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Small Pets allowed. Available Now (201) 424-7995 29W03
KEARNY 3 BR’s, EIK. $2375 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No pets/Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 29W03
KEARNY Arlington Section: Single family home 4 BRS, LR, DR, 1.5 Baths . Full Kitchen, w/ New Appliance & Washer and Dryer Hook up. $2850 + 1.5 Months Security. Utilities separate, Alv.Now Parking Spot No Smoking/ No Pets. Credit Background Check, Contact: (201)294-3916 29W03
KEARNY 1 BR apt. HT/ HW included also Hardwood floors , $1,450 + 1.5 months security. No pets/smoking. Available December 1st For more Info Call 201-3062994 29W03
N.ARLINGTON 1st Fl.
1 BR, Close to shops. $1,700 + 1 1/2 months security. No smoking. No dogs. Credit check.
Available Jan. 1, 2025 (973) 838-1662 29W06
KEARNY Share Kitchen & Bathroom, 1 room $750 2nd room $800 No pets/smoking Women preferred available now (201)6734402 28W03
KEARNY 2 Rooms for rent, access to Kitchen, Bath & LR, access to backyard. Woman preferred $1000 per room + 1.5 months security Everything included Available Now (551)209-6948 29W03
KEARNY Large big room. with private bath. Responsible person. Utilities included. No Smoking. Private entrance. Available Now (973)704-4186 29W03
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
N.ARLINGTON One bedroom 3 room apartment in an apartment complex. Excellent location, near stores and $1800.00transportation. 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
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
N.NEWARK Forest Hill section. $700 + 1 months security. Utilities included. Shared Bath, No Kitchen. No smoking (973) 7526877 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
PRIVATE Drum Set Instruction All Ages All Levels Call/Text Russ Plz leave V.M. 201-417-0469 29W06
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
DIVORCE From $299 + Court cost. BANKRUPTCY Chapter 7 only. $450.00 + Court cost. www.njdivorce299-nj.com (973)273-1325 25W09
N. ARLINGTON
KEARNY
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
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
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
Registered Environmental Health Specialists (REHS)
The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for Registered Environmental Health Specialists (REHS). Under direction of the Health Officer, responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 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. 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
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
As enrollment declines elsewhere, HCCC seeing opposite trend
At a time when college enrollment departments are facing significant pressures nationwide, Hudson County Community College is pioneering solutions and turning the tide to meet students where they are, leading to increased year-overyear enrollment and a continuing upward trend in enrollment
since the pandemic.
Enrollment is up in all categories.
Fall 2024 full-time equivalent (FTE) student enrollment at HCCC is up 7.4% from fall 2023, including a significant 11.9% increase in new students and a 4.8% increase in continuing student enrollment.
The increased enrollment is good news for the college, according to HCCC President Christopher Reber.
“A college education is the gateway to the American Dream,” Reber said. “By providing affordable, high-quality educational opportunities that offer a clear path to exciting careers
and family-sustaining wages, we are keeping that dream alive for Hudson County residents.”
HCCC says it is defying the long-term nationwide trends of declining enrollment by meeting students where they are and employing best practices to help every student succeed.
For example, the college offers
a large and growing number of online courses and fully online programs that give busy students more flexibility than ever before, allowing them to pursue a degree around family, work and other responsibilities.
The college now offers over 180 online and hybrid courses, and 21 fully online programs, an increase of 18 over the last six years.
HCCC’s Early College program gives Hudson County high school students a head start on their college careers by allowing them to take classes at HCCC at reduced tuition while still in high school. Over 700 high school students are enrolled in HCCC courses and the number is expected to jump.
These two areas are helping drive HCCC’s growing enrollment.
Early college enrollment is up 37% year-over-year, while online enrollment is up 23% by the same measure. On-ground student enrollment is also up, now accounting for nearly 60% of all course enrollments. The college’s focus on using data and best practices to support student retention and degree completion is also a significant factor in its increasing enrollment. Fields of study such as nursing, health sciences and business are booming. Enrollment in nursing and health sciences programs are up 22.4% from last year and business experienced a 12.1% boost in enrollment. The college has also increased its efforts in supporting various student populations including, but not limited to, adult learners, returning HCCC students and student parents.
HCCC now serves more than 10,000 students annually in credit programs, and an additional 10,000 students in non-credit, industry-recognized programs leading to a wide range of credentials and aligned with a credit academic pathway.
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
THE REV
Continued from Page 1
dedicated to his memory.
Retired Kearny Police Officer Jim Mackintosh, himself a Roman Catholic Deacon, offered a remarkable reflection about The Rev., we’re told, and instead of Christening the shell with a champagne bottle, he instead did so with a bottle of Johnny Walker Red, Benson’s favorite.
After the ceremony, The Observer spoke with the Kearny PD’s Chief Scott Macfie about The Rev. And while there were many observations that were clear, what stood out most was that he was loved, universally, by most of not all the men and woman who had put on the blue.
“When my sister went to the seminary of Princeton, Frank was her sponsor there,” Macfie recalls. “He would do ride-alongs with us, and he would visit officers who were out out sick. He’d go to their homes, he’d make phone calls. Years ago, we had a newsletter that was called ‘The Blues News’ that John Dowie put out. And then there was a spot, ‘Revelations From The Rev.’ It was great and he just he just had a very dry sense of humor. He was that overall nice guy.”
Macfie says while there were many aspects of policing Benson enjoyed, one particularly stood out.
“He loved to shoot,” Macfie says, noting The Rev. could often be seen at the shooting range in North Arlington. “We didn’t give him his own gun, but he purchased one on his own and he loved it.”
When Benson died, several people left tributes that, to this day are still poignant. One of them was made by Steve Durkin, now retired from the Kearny PD.
“My sincere condolences
to Paula and the family of Frank,” Durkin wrote. “’The Rev’ was a fixture at KPD, a true friend who cannot be replaced. He took his role as chaplain to heart, doing ridealongs with the officers, attending training, going to the firing range, attending every PBA function. But it was his weekly trips to headquarters,
spending time with everyone from the chief of police to the newest patrolman, that I will remember most. He genuinely cared about each of us and our families and made it his business to know our business. No one ever wore the uniform prouder.”
IDEAS WORTH PRINTING
TOP: With Macfie and Ekladious nearby, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle addresses the crowd at the shell dedication two weekends ago. In the bottom photo, Macfie presents a plaque to commemorate ‘The Rev’ to his widow, Paula.
