UNDER THE COVER
North Arlington reorganizes in special ceremony at NAHS Page 4
‘THAT’S IT FOR ME’
In stunner, Konopka resigns from Kearny Council at annual reorganization meeting, cites health concerns
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Kearny Second Ward Councilman Richard Konopka, a Democrat, resigned his seat during the Monday, Jan. 6, annual reorganization meeting, setting up what will likely be an all-out battle to replace him.
Konopka first took office 11 years ago.
At that meeting, former Kearny Police Chief George King piped the governing body into the council chambers — and that was followed by an invocation, the Pledge and the National Anthem, which was sung by Brandi Leigh Miller.
Then, as Mayor Carol Jean Doyle prepared to begin the evening’s agenda, Konopka spoke up, unexpectedly, and asked to be heard out of order.
Initially surprised by the request, Doyle then yielded the floor to her former colleague.
“Usually before the holidays, I write
up many things that happened in the Town of Kearny last year and going forward. But today, I had to write something else,” Konopka, fighting back tears, said. “It is with deep regret that at this time, I cannot continue as a Second Ward councilman for the Town of Kearny, due to personal issues and health concerns.
“I would like to thank former Mayor Alberto Santos and the Kearny Democratic Committee for selecting me to become the Second Ward councilman. I will always be grateful for that. I want to thank the residents of the Second Ward that have supported me. I always tried to represent the Second Ward to the best of my ability.
“I want to wish everyone a happy and very healthy New Year. Thank you,
Town of Kearny and good night.
“That is it for me.”
At that, Konopka stood up, walked off the dais and out of the council chamber for the last time, as seen in the photo at the top of this page.
The rest of the council, meanwhile, sat in stunned disbelief, as Konopka walked out. It appeared no one anticipated what had just happened.
“That was a stunner,” Doyle said, as she and the rest paused.
Then she went on with the rest of the agenda.
See RICH, Page 5
Konopka
Kearny UNICO hosting casino bus trip fundraiser
Kearny UNICO sponsors a fundraising bus trip to Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Sunday, Feb. 2. The trip will leave from American Legion Post 99 on Belgrove Drive in Kearny at 9 a.m. Prior to departure coffee and” will be served to all guests going on the
trip. Trip proceeds the trip will benefit the chapter’s Scholarship Fund and other charitable activities.
North Arlington Knights hosting Italian night dinner
The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus sponsors an Italian dinner night Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 5:30 p.m. On the menu: chicken parmigiana, pasta,
NEWS BRIEFS
stuffed shells, meatballs, salad, bread, dessert and refreshments.
The cost is $25 for adults and $10 for kids younger than 12. Reservations may be made by calling (201) 988-0183 by Thursday, Jan. 16.
The Knights ask those attending to consider donating a non-expired, non-perishable canned good for the council’s
In accordance with the Open Public Meeting Act, P.L. 1975c 231, this is to advise that the Kearny Board of Education has changed the location of the Regular Board Meeting on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 to the Kearny High School Auditorium, 336 Devon Street, Kearny, NJ 07032. Upon opening the meeting, the Board will take action to enter into Closed Session at 5:30 p.m. and reconvene in Public at 7:00 p.m. Action will be taken.
While the Board reserves the right to change the date when necessary in order to accommodate the public to attend the meeting, legal notice of this change has been sent to the Board, Town Clerk, District Website and posted at the Board Office.
The agenda to the extent known is: Regular Board Meeting Honoring ESL Certifications
Food for Families project.
Project Graduation hosting fundraising casino trip
Kearny Project Graduation hosts a fundraiser bus trip to Wind Creek Casino Sunday, Feb. 16.
A bus leaves from the Kearny Bank on Kearny Avenue at 9 a.m. with return by 7 p.m.
The cost is $45 and includes $25 in casino play. Coffee will be served at 8:45 a.m.
Attendees are asked not to park in the bank’s lot.
Checks may be sent to KHS, 336 Devon St., Kearny, N.J. 07032.
Send payments to $kear-
nyprojectgrad on Cashapp or @ Kearny-ProjectGrad on Venmo.
Project Graduation hosting tricky tray & fashion show
The Kearny High School PTA and Project Graduation committee hosts a tricky tray and fashion show Friday, Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. at Kearny High School.
General admission is $20 and senior citizens, students and children pay $10.
Those interested in attending may register at docs. google.com/forms/d/e/ 1FAIpQLSd_09_zETZPyYGwc_ PZRoMCoSVX4RarqnaRw49pSACijzDmpQ/viewform.
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KPD: Detectives nab suspicious man who turned out to be shoplifter
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Two plainclothes detectives had a hunch and it ultimately paid off.
According to Det. Sgt. Michal Gontarczuk:
On Dec. 19, Lt. Jay Ward and Officer Anthony Oliveira, assigned to plainclothes patrol, observed a man with a shopping cart full of merchandise, quickly loading all of the goods into a vehicle parked directly in front of Marshall’s exit door.
The man was constantly surveying his surroundings while furiously loading. The officers could see no license plate and the windows were darkly tinted so they could not see who was inside the vehicle.
Believing this man had just stolen the merchandise, they attempted to stop the vehicle for multiple motor vehicle
violations, but it did not stop, continuing into the Starbucks parking lot and refusing to stop, despite lights and sirens being activated.
At one point the vehicle attempted to reverse around the police, but became cornered, which later led to a minor motor vehicle accident.
Once the vehicle could flee no further, the man who had loaded the merchandise into the vehicle exited and began running away.
Officer Oliveira gave chase and the suspect soon fell after tripping over a curb. He resisted arrest, but Officer Oliveira secured him in an arm bar and ultimately secured him.
Further investigation determined the goods (almost $700 worth) were in fact shoplifted.
This suspect was identified
POLICE BEAT
as Aaron D. Williams, 32,of Newark.
While this occurred, Lt. Ward and the now-arriving back up officers dealt with the stopped vehicle.
The driver,. Quashyne T. Seburn, 32, of Newark, was arrested. A search yielded multiple bars of Xanax.
A further search of the vehicle yielded a quantity of Oxycodone, as well as a scale used to weigh narcotics before repackaging them for distribution.
Additionally, ziplock bags of 9mm Luger rounds were located in the vehicle.
Williams was charged with shoplifting, resisting arrest by flight and obstruction.
Seburn was charged with eluding, distribution of CDS (Oxycodone), possession of CDS (Oxycodone), possession of CDS (Xanax), drug paraphernalia, certain persons not to possess ammunition, receiving ammunition without a firearms ID card, improper display, obstruction of windshield for vision, careless driving and operation of a MV with CDS. Seburn was also wanted.
Once at headquarters, a large quantity of crack cocaine and heroin was found on Seburn, which was packaged for distribution and which he had hidden inside his underwear — 19 vials of crack and 132 wax folds of heroin.
This resulted in additional charges of distribution of heroin, distribution of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia.
Both men were transported to the Hudson County Jail, South Kearny.
The motor vehicle crash that resulted from this incident was minor and resulted in no injuries.
North Arlington Council reorganizes harmoniously
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
North Arlington Mayor Daniel H. Pronti reflected on the positive and ongoing initiatives in the Borough during his annual “State of the Borough” address at the municipal reorganization meeting Jan. 3.
In his address, Pronti spoke about the borough’s efforts to vastly improve communication and accessibility, including the launch of a new smartphone app, expanded social media communications and the bi-annual North Arlington News newsletter. He highlighted that the 2024 municipal tax bill, on the average North Arlington home, has remained unchanged since 2017, demonstrating the borough’s fiscal responsibility and commitment to taxpayers.
Pronti also discussed how the Borough Council has strengthened relationships with key stakeholders such as the Passaic Valley Water
Commission, Holy Cross Cemetery and the Board of Education, which have contributed to the borough’s ongoing development.
The mayor also previewed significant redevelopment projects aimed at transforming vacant properties into valuable community resources, with long-term tax benefits.
One key proposal would be to seek a developer to convert the site of the shuttered Melray’s Furniture Store
(45 Ridge Road) into a hybrid (retail and parking) structure. The bottom floor would consist of retail storefronts which would drive residents and visitors into the region, and the upper floor would hold a parking garage with much needed municipal and retail parking spaces. The garage would be accessed via a ramp directly from Garden Terrace.
Another ongoing improvement is the acquisition of the former Comcast
property. Which will provide off-street parking for those attending sporting events at Rip Collins and Mellino Fields (141 River Road). The new parking lot also has the potential to provide an overnight option for permitted residents along the western slope.
Pronti also expressed pride and appreciation in the borough’s employees, especially department heads, whom he praised for leading by example and setting a high standard for public service.
At the meeting, incumbent Pronti swore-in Councilmembers Allison Sheedy and Brian Fitzhenry for their newest terms.
Councilman Mario Karcic will once again serve as Council President and Councilman Kirk DelRusso was nominated by his fellow council members to serve as Council Vice President. Both were then sworn in by the mayor.
Fire Chief Mark Zidiak, First Deputy
See NA, Page 5
Pronti delivers his annual ‘State of the Borough’ address at North Arlington High School on Jan. 3, 2025.
RICH
Continued from Page 1
A few days later, she reflected on Konopka’s tenure on the council and his unexpected resignation.
“I was certainly taken aback by his sudden resignation,” Doyle said. “However, over the last few months, he had missed a lot of meetings. And he didn’t come to the Holiday Festival, which he always seemed to enjoy. So we were in shock since he didn’t let us know beforehand. I hope he is in good health. And he will be missed. He was a great contributor to our recreation programs. And when he was a member of the Zoning Board before that, he always did a great work.”
What changed?
For many of the years Konopka was on the council, there was a lot of harmony.
But after Mayor Alberto G. Santos resigned to take a judgeship in Hudson County Superior Court, the local Democratic Party fractured and Konopka
NA
Continued from Page 4
Fire Chief Robert Fellrath and Second Deputy Fire Chief Matthew Piscal were also sworn in at the meeting. Pronti and the council announced the appointments of volunteers to their respective municipal boards and commissions.
“I set annual goals for the borough at each reorganization meeting.
“It is always a great feeling to report that our goals are being met and to give an update on the ones that are still progressing,” the mayor said. “Between parking improvements, redevelopment projects, and enhancements to the quality of life around North Arlington, our Borough is set up for a great 2025.”
was forced to choose a side.
Anyone paying remote attention to the comings and goings in Kearny knows those “sides” have not always been amicable. And it was apparent Konopka was displeased with most, if not all, of it.
Now the biggest question that remains — who will replace him on the council?
By law, the Democratic Party’s County Committee has 15 days from the resignation to
gather three names of potential candidates. Of the three, a choice must be proffered as the nominee for the seat. The committee was expected to meet Tuesday, Jan. 14.
But here’s where the biggest problem rests — with the fractured council, the likelihood of finding a consensus candidate, who could garner five council votes, and ascend to the Second Ward seat, will be challenging.
If the first of three candidate
DIRECTORY BUSINESS
fails, the second person of the original three would face an up or down vote.
If that candidate fails, the third person of the original three would face the same up or down vote.
Then, it gets even more tricky.
If none of the three get the required five votes, we’re hearing the next step would fall into the hands of Doyle, who could either select a Second
Ward Democrat to take the post or leave the seat open until November. (The seat is already up for grabs as it is.)
Doyle says she has someone in mind to take the seat, but wasn’t ready to say who it is, just yet.
Town Attorney Jim Bruno, meanwhile, is working to confirm the aforementioned process about what happens if no one gets the required five council votes.
SPORTS & HEALTH
AKAR SCORES 1,000TH PT.
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Asya Akar admitted to being a little anxious on Friday night. The balloons and banner were ready, and additional friends and family were in attendance for one reason - to see Akar score her 1,000th point.
Despite those nerves, Akar delivered what everyone in the crowd at Lyndhurst had come out to see. The game that was promoted on social media as Akar’s milestone night became just that when Akar scored 19 points, including the 1,000th of her career in the Golden Bears’ 45-29 victory over Harrison.
“There was so much pressure,” Akar said about the hour leading up to the game. “I was so anxious and everyone coming to watch really makes you think and play differently and it was just scary. But as soon as I did, it was just a huge pressure lifted off of my chest.”
“She was absolutely nervous, but like I told her, just play your game. Try to eliminate the distractions. If you play how you normally play, it’s going to happen tonight,” said head coach Dan Kesack. “To her credit, she locked in and she did what she needed to do and she ended up
getting it in the first half.”
By achieving the milestone, Akar, a 5-foot-10 senior forward, finds herself in exclusive company, becoming just the seventh girl in Lyndhurst history to score 1,000 points and the first since Carly Martin in 2021.
“I came into high school not knowing that I would accomplish this,” said Akar. “But it happened and I’m so happy. It’s shocking and I feel grateful and happy that I did it to show it’s achievable.”
Needing 11 points to get to 1,000, Akar reached the milestone late in the first half when point guard Sam Mayer found Akar for a lay up. According to Akar, it was only fitting the moment happened thanks to an assist from her teammate since fifth grade.
“She usually assists me with every point I get,” said Akar. “We’ve been playing for years, since fifth grade, and it means a lot that she assisted me on it. She told me the game before that she wanted to assist me on my 1,000th point.
“I was so shocked when it happened. I was like, ‘Sam, you predicted this.’ It was just a good moment for both of us.”
It was in fifth grade when Akar was signed up to play basketball
by her mother Zuhal. It was a year later, when Akar started playing travel ball, that her passion for basketball started to grow.
“I think it was my sixth grade year during travel, I was a starter and I picked it up real quick and I scored a lot of points,” Akar said. “Going into high school, I was still getting used to the fast pace. My sophomore year, I guess I was like okay, I think I have the hang of this and I have a good three seasons left ahead of me.”
“(Then head coach Perrin) Mosca and I looked at each other right away after watching her play in the summer league going into her freshman year. And we both said right away she’s going to be one of the greats,” Kesack said. “She just had that athletic ability that is rare to see in girls
per game as a freshman, Akar enjoyed a breakout sophomore season when she averaged 11.4 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. The scoring total increased to 13.1 points per game as a junior.
As a senior, Akar has taken her game to new heights, averaging 18.3 points and 8.1 rebounds per game.
“It’s something that doesn’t happen very often at Lyndhurst and I couldn’t be more proud of her and who she is as an athlete, as a person because she does everything the right way,” Kesack said. “Whether it’s in the building, outside the building, when she steps on the court, or the track, or the field, everything she does, she does it the right way.”
LYNDHURST CAREER SCORING LEADERS GIRLS BASKETBALL
1. Dawn Johnson (1991) 2,224
2. Cathy Perez (1999) 1,447
3. Loretta Coughlin (1976) 1,326
4. Camila Alonso (2013) 1,054
5. Barbara Schifano (1986) 1,036
6. Carley Martin (2021) 1,026
7. Asya Akar (2025) 1,008
*through Jan. 12, 2025
Photo courtesy of Dan Kesack
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Kearny’s Will Souza has always looked to his oldest brother Nick, one of the most accomplished guards in recent Kardinal history, as an instrumental figure in his development as a basketball player. But as the youngest of three brothers, Will admits to always having been competitive in hopes of beating his older siblings.
“Since I was a little kid, I’ve always been really competitive,” Will Souza said. “I’m the youngest so I always try to beat
them in everything we do.”
Last Thursday, not only did Will Souza top one of Nick’s records, he did so with one of the best games any Kardinal has had in years.
Will Souza erupted for a career-high 39 points in Kearny’s 60-51 victory over Ferris in Jersey City. Souza’s 39 points were the most by any Kardinal in nearly 12 years since Dylan Hotch’s 49-point game in 2013
Will’s scoring outburst not only makes him the latest Observer Athlete of the Week, it gave him some bragging rights. Nick’s career-high for points was 35, which he got in
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December of 2019.
“It was definitely a goal of mine to break his record,” Will Souza said, adding he was very surprised to learn he finished with 39. “(When I did it on Thursday), I didn’t have to say anything, I just sent the screenshots of the boxscore.
“(Nick) just said congratulations. He was really happy. He was happier than me actually.”
“I think it was a combination of his work ethic and his ability all just kind of caught up with each other on the same day,” head coach Marc
Continued on the next page
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Will Souza
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
McCaffrey said. “His efficiency was really high that day. It was all within the flow of the offense. He was a facilitator as well as a scorer. He just had one of those games.”
For Will Souza, the performance at Feris was the highpoint of what has been a breakout season for the senior. The senior guard has been one of the state’s top scorers this season, averaging 20.8 points per game so far, a dramatic improvement from a year ago when he averaged just 8.0 per game as he reacclimated himself to basketball in New Jersey.
Souza and his family had moved from Brazil to Kearny when Will was 9 years old. They had moved back to Brazil during Covid, returning before the start of last season.
“Last year, I didn’t really
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have a good season, but I knew (a better year) was coming,” said Souza. “A lot of the scorers from last year were gone, so I knew this year was going to be a good year.”
Souza credits his work in the offseason with former Kearny head coach Julius David at Hickory Park as well as playing AAU basketball with Poise this summer. Souza saw the work pay early dividends when he averaged roughly 25 points a game in Kearny’s summer league games and it carried over to the high school season.
“You could tell he had worked on his game in the offseason. His ball handling has gotten better and his shooting has gotten better and also his finishing around the rim has gotten better,” McCaffrey said. “A lot of his points, even in the 39-point performance, were
inside the paint. He finishes very well inside the paint for a guard.”
“We have a lot of really good shooters so I feel like I have to be the guy to drive and create opportunities,” Souza said.
“That’s what I’m trying to do. I’m trying to be aggressive and kick it out when I have to.”
Souza’s play has helped spark Kearny to a 3-0 start within the HCIAL National Division as it seeks to win its first league division title since 2016.
In addition to winning a division title there is still one more bit of sibling bragging rights Souza would like to get.
“(Nick) got 532 points that (senior) season,” Will Souza said. “I’m definitely trying to beat that by the end of the year.”
Franklin School names Students of the Month
Yvonne Cali, principal of Franklin School in Kearny, announces the school’s December Students of the Month.
Hillary Prado Tenorio, Tadashi Noda, Emilia Ahumada Laynes, Aadya Jackson, Lavinia Moura, Linsay Lema, Allen Rosa, Iris Bellow, Jacob Navarro, Luna Haniszewski,Leland Costello, King Grady, Rose Ortega, Reyna Montesions, Valerie Martinez, Owen Lamboy, Joaquin Piyuka, Selvin Aleman Dominguez, Ghaela Leon Cataneda, Mateo Cumbicus Hidalgo, Roberto Rodriguez Merizalde, Madison Carrasco, Jacob Lugo, Rebecca Morais Salazar, Carlos Francisco Romero Loayza,
conditions from —a routine eye exam? During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor can evaluate the health and condition of the blood vessels in your retina, which are a good predictor of the health of blood vessels throughout your body. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia all are visible by changes in the appearance of the retinal blood supply and blood vessels.
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Ariadna Torres-Escoboza, Noah Berguete Medrano, Mia Acevedo, Jacko Amaya Cusanero, Mateo Urmeneta, Cataleya Bustamante, Kyle Paterson, Alessandro Peyrache, Steven Avila, Declan Nolan, Raylan Cleveland, Yumna Afefah, Lukas Teixeira, Vincent Lin, James Maldonado, Rene Martins Silva, Avyaansh Kushwaha, Sebastian Remache Gregorio, Jenna Vythilengam, Jazlyn Arosemena Ahuanari, Nicolas Molina/ Celina Padilla, Alana Ordonez, Grace Taliento, Anthony Almeida, Adonis Rodriguez Espino, Maria Modolo, Michael Araujo Da Silva, Isabella Martinez Cuba, Maylen Murillo Cabezas and Mariangel Perez De La Fuente.
Denis Michael Gilmore, MD, FACS
Denis Michael Gilmore, MD, FACS, of Nashville, died Dec. 23 aged 44.
He was born July 28, 1980 in Belleville and he grew up in Kearny.
He graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2002 and the Royal College of Surgeons in 2007 (Dublin, Ireland). Following his graduation from medical school,
OBITUARIES
he went on to complete his residency at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston in 2015, which led him to Nashville where he did his fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center through 2018.
Denis worked as a thoracic surgeon. He was actively involved in his medical profession where he fulfilled his passion of caring for others. Denis took great pride in being a doctor in which he supported patients in need of medical treatment and healing to the best of his ability.
His family was most important. Denis made it a priority to always be there for his two boys and his wife, particularly at school events
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and baseball and hockey games.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Jack and Danny and father, John.
Denis is survived by his wife Erin Gilmore (nee MacConchie), sons Nate and Jake, brother Kevin (Michelle), and mother Anita. He is also survived by many additional family members who cared for him deeply.
Denis had a love for all things Irish as well as being an avid sports fan. He was one of the most respected individuals one could ever know. At his place of employment (Centennial Medical Center), he was the Division Chief of Thoracic Surgery, Chair of the Professional Practice Evaluation Committee and also Chair of the Robotics Committee.
He was also a member of ABTS, ACS, STS, STSA.
The family would like to thank all of his care team as well as
colleagues at Sarah Cannon and Centennial Medical Center for the care and compassion they showed Denis in his final days.
Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing at Marshall-Donnelly-Combs Funeral Home on Wednesday January 1 from 4-7pm. Visitation with the family will begin at 4pm.
A funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 2 at Christ the King Catholic Church, Nashville.
Interment was in Calvary Cemetery, Nashville.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor to the Sarah Cannon Fund, c/o Community Foundation of Middle TN, 3421 Belmont Boulevard, Nashville, Tenn. 37215.
Lois Marie Goscinski
Lois Marie Goscinski died Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, at St. Clare’s Hospital, Dover.
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All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
She was 78.
A funeral service took place at the Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison. Her interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Born in New York, Lois was raised in Harrison, where she lived for many years before moving to Morris County seven years ago. She was a parishioner of Holy Cross Church, Harrison. She worked as a book binder for many years.
Lois is survived by her beloved nieces and a nephew, Richard Suydam and his wife, Marisa, Marbeth Goscinski, Cynthia Manning and Jessica Rolph. She is also survived by many grandnieces and grandnephews. She was predeceased by her niece, Donna Ammiano, and siblings, Stanley “Butch,” Diane, Patricia, Carol and Beverly. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mulliganfh.com.
Romuald Dabrowski
Romuald Dabrowski, 72, died Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025.
Born in Lapy, Poland, he had lived in Kearny for the past 40 years.
He worked as a foreman for MTA-Metro North Railroad in New York for 25 years before retiring in 2011. For many years he was also self-employed as the owner of Dabrowski Construction in Kearny.
Romuald’s pride and joy was the cabin he built in Greene, New York. It was there he enjoyed hunting, fixing machines, showing his grandchildren how to ride ATVs and hosting his family and friends.
Romuald was the beloved husband for 49 years of Ursula ( nee
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Granaszewska ); the devoted father of Marta Dmochowski and her husband Maciej, Michal Dabrowski and his wife Agnieszka, and Philip R. Dabrowski; the cherished grandfather of Kevin, Maksym, Kasper, Aleksander and Adrian; and the dear brother of Wanda Kalczynski, Stanley Dabrowski, Walenty Dabrowski, and the late Mirka Dabrowska.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral from the Parow Funeral Home 185 Ridge Road, North Arlington, on Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 8:30 a.m. thence to Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, Harrison, for the funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Carole Louise Trucillo (née Navrotski)
May 17, 1944 – Dec. 20, 2024
Carole Louise Trucillo, 80, of Harrison, died peacefully Dec. 20, 2024.
She was born on May 17, 1944, in Bound Brook to Kaszmere and Pearl (née Sroka) Navrotski.
Carole was the beloved wife of the late John Trucillo, and together they shared a life filled with love and devotion. She was the loving mother of Gina Pintar (deceased married to Matthew), John (married to Dawn) and Mario (married to Allison). Carole cherished her role as a grandmother to Ava, Matthew, John Jr., Andrea and Penelope, and her love for her grandchildren was a central part of her life.
A woman of immense strength and kindness, Carole was known for her unwavering devotion to her family and her ability to find joy even in the most difficult of times. Her warm heart and selflessness touched everyone who knew her.
Carole’s legacy of love, resilience and devotion will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
A memorial service to honor Carole’s life will take place Wednesday, Jan. 15 from 3 to 7 p.m., at Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison. A funeral Mass will take place Jan. 16 at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Church, Harrison.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www. mulliganfh.com.
- NEW CONSTRUCTION! Two 1 Family Homes$1,100,385 & $1,100,389 - Luxurious, brand new colonials - 5 bedrooms and 5 1/2 baths, multitude of amenities.Open floor plan. 1st floor: generously-sized kitchen: walk-in pantry, SS appliances,functional island. Dine/ room, fam/room, and lounge area. Ensuite flex/bed with a f/bath,1/2 bath. Rear deck, Backyard. 2nd floor - 2 primary beds with full baths and walk-in clsts, along with two adjl beds and another full bath. 3rd floor: game room, flex/bed, and a full bath. Full basement. .Convenient access to shopping, schools, restaurants, and transportation to NYC.
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home located in the highly sought after area of NorthEnd Kearny- Currently used as a two family, town approval required to obtain 2 family CO. Features lg yard, driveway. Being Sold “ As is” . Great opportunity for both investors
Belleville’s Three Kings celebration draws large drive-thru crowd
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Three Kings Day — which has quickly become one of the town’s most beloved annual events — was celebrated recently with community spirit, bright smiles and, of course, gifts for children.
The drive-through event at Belleville High School captures the joy of the holiday that is widely celebrated in many Central and South American countries.
Presented by Mayor Michael A. Melham and the Township Council, the Three Kings Day celebration comes with a unique Belleville twist because it also features an appearance
from La Befana, a witch-like old lady who in Italian lore brings gifts to children.
Still basking in the glow of Christmas and New Year’s Day, children’s smiles could be seen through rolled down backseat windows as vehicles passed through.
of cars. In the background, the municipal Christmas tree, lit by Santa Claus and Melham last month, glistened in the winter night.
BELLEVILLE @ CHRISTMAS
They gazed at La Befana, as well as dancers in brilliant costumes and actors in special costumes on festive floats, as cars and SUVs rolled across the parking lot in front of the high school.
Another favorite of children of all ages — the camels — gnawed on hay and gave quizzical looks to the parade
Assemblymembers Carmen Morales and Michael Venezia, both of the 34th district and Councilmembers Vinnie Cozzarelli, Frank Velez and Tracy Williams, were also on hand to make spirits even brighter.
“I’ve seen this event continue to grow like a big snowball over the past few years,” Melham said. “For many of our residents, this is part of their culture. For them and many others, it’s also a night full of civic pride and community spirit.”
BELLEVILLE
1 &2 Bedroom Laundry facility on premise.
1 Parking Space Hardwood floors. 1 BR $1550
2 BR $1850 + 1.5 months
security Utilities separate.
See Super Apartment #2, 61 Newcombe St. Belleville. Call Joe (862)283-7599 36W03
BELLEVILLE Newly renovated 2ND Fl, 2 BR Apt. HT/HW Included. 1 months security. No Pets/Smoking. Washer/Dryer, AVL.Now Call Maria (973) 759-7077 36W03
BELLEVILLE 1st floor.
2 BR’s, LR, DR, Kitchen, Sunroom/office $2400 + 1.5 months security Heat included. No Pets/Smoking Available March 1st (973)9858188 37W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
HARRISON 2nd Floor.
2 BR’s, EIK, LR,DR 1.5 months security. Utilities separate, Heating included. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (973)351-5512 35W03
HARRISON 2nd floor 4 BR’s, 1 Bath, Large EIK, No Pets/Smoking, Available Now (973)7142368 or (201)463-6303 35W03
HARRISON 1st floor
3 BR’s, LR, EIK, 1 Bath 1 months security Utilities separate, No Pets/ No Smoking Available Now (973)714-2368 or (201)463-6303 35W03
HARRISON New Home
2nd fl. 3 BR’s, 2 Baths. Close to transportation. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. (201)7090645 or (973)741-8292 Leave Message 36W03
E.NEWARK Newly renovated 3 BR’s, LR, Kitchen & Bath $2200 + 1.5 months security, Utilities not included, No Pets/smoking Available Now (201)334-8526 35W03
HARRISON Newly Renovated 2nd Floor 3 bedroom apartment, Kitchen, LR, DR, 2 bathrooms, Deck, Parking. No Smoking. Utilities Seperate. $2,700/mth plus 1 mth security. Available March (201)655-8653 36W03
HARRISON Studio
Close to PATH train and NJIT. $1400 + 1 months security. Utilities included. Available Now (551)229-6989 35W03
HARRISON 1 bedroom, 1 bath, hardwood floors. 5 min walk to path station and shopping. February 1st Call (973) 202-6380 37W03
HARRISON 2nd floor, 3
BR’s, LR, EIK, DR, Laundry room $2800 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Across from Path Station Available February 1st (973)5366559 37W03
KEARNY Stewart Ave, 1st Floor, Spacious LR, Eat-in-kitchen, 3 bedrooms, Bath, Offstreet Parking, Storage, Backyard, No Pets/smoking, $2150+ Utilities, Security Deposit. Available January (908)-771-0762 35W03
HARRISON 2nd Floor
Beautiful 2 BR LR, DR, Kitch, Full bath, laundry
$2000 + 1.5 months
Security deposit. 10 min Walk to PATH, Major highways & Stores. No Pets/Smoking Call (973)485-6746 or (917)992-2293 36W03
HARRISON 2nd fl, 1 bed room, kitchen, bath and living room. $1400 + 1.5 months security, 1 year lease required. Utilities separate, no pets no smoking. Walk to PATH. Call for appointment (646)544-4912 37W03
$2100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Near Transportation. Available January 1st (973)838-1662 32W06
KEARNY 3 BR’s, EIK. $2300 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No pets/Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 36W03
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 35W03
KEARNY 1 BR apt. HT/ HW included also Hardwood floors , $1,500 + 1.5 months security. No pets/smoking. Available Now. For more Info Call 201-306-2994 36W03
KEARNY
1 BR $1,550 + 1.5 Months security. HT/HW included. See Super 6 Woodland Ave. Apt. 1 (201)892-8035 for appointment. 36W03
KEARNY 2nd fl. 3 BR, LR combined with DR , 2 bathrooms, no pets/ smoking, no Parking, laundry inside apartment, C/A $2500 + 1 1/2 months security Utilities not included Avl. Now (201) 2064845 35W03
KEARNY
Elevated building 1 BR APT. HT/HW included. $1,575 + 1.5 Months
Security See Super, 654 Elm St, Kearny. Laundry facility on premises Call Sofia after 3pm (201)998-3516 for appointment. 36W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK, HW floors throughout, laundry included $2200 + 1 months security Utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking Available Feb 1st (917)294-4024 36W03
KEARNY 2ND Floor, 2 BR, LR, EIK. Use of backyard & use of laundry. No Pets. 2 Parking spaces in driveway. $2200 + 1 month security. Avl. Feb.1. (201) 563-3947 37W03
LYNDHURST Newly renovated 1st floor 3 bedroom, 5 rooms. EIK. Spacious LR. Laundry space. $2200 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/ smoking. Close to train station. Available February 1st Call 973-9001852 36W03
NORTH ARLINGTON
1 bedroom, 1 bath, HW floors, Newly painted. $1,600 + 1.5 mth
security. 1 year lease. H/HW included. No Pets
Available February 1st No weekends Call
(732)237-4682 35W03
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 36W06
N.ARLINGTON One bedroom in an apartment complex. Excellent location, near stores and transportation.$1825.00 per month, one month security. Heat and hot water provided. Laundry on premises Storage in basement. No smoking and no pets. Adults preferred. Please call between 10:00am and 7:00pm: 201-997-2341 35W03
N.ARLINGTON 2nd floor newly renovated 1 bedroom apt. $1500 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking Available February 1st 201-772-7609 or 917-721-3381 37W03
NUTLEY 2nd Fl. 1 BR ,Move In condition
Large EIK, LR , AC provided $1,600 + 1.5 months security, No pets, No smoking, Close to NY transportation. Call Tom 973-517-7517
Available February 1st
Credit check a must Leave a verbal message 37W03
HARRISON Room for rent, $600 + 1 month security. Kitchen, Cable & Light included. Single Male or Couple preferred Avl. Now (201) 726-8136 Se habla español 35W03
BELLEVILLE male prefered. responsible person. no smoking. No kitchen. $750 + 1 month security. Utilities included (973) 3325613 36W03
HARRISON
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
PUBLIC NOTICE
PURPOSE: The Town of Kearny is seeking funding through the State of NJ Green Acres Program for improvements at Riverbank Park located at 925-927 Passaic Avenue near Route 7/Belleville Turnpike in the Town of Kearny.
PROJECT SCOPE: The Town of Kearny proposes to create the following new facilities at Riverbank Park: Hartung Recreation Center/Kearny Crew House; and/or to renovate the following facilities: site improvements and addition to Hartung Center and Kearny Crew House. A concept plan showing the proposed changes, a preliminary cost estimate, and an environmental impact assessment for the project can be found at: www.kearnynj.org.
PUBLIC HEARING INFORMATION: The public is encouraged to attend a public hearing to learn more about the proposal and to ask questions or provide comments on the proposed plan on January 21, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held both in-Person and virtually via Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83166464673#success), as part of the regularly scheduled Mayor and Council meeting. Written comments on the proposed application may be directed to: Stephen D. Marks, Town Administrator, email: smarks@kearnynj.org, 402 Kearny Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032 36W03
EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED
Administrative Assistant Real estate management company in Ironbound Newark, looking for an administrative assistant, to support all aspects of daily office activities and communication with residents. Call 973-491-9494, or email resume to info@hestaliving.com
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Job Opening Building Subcode Official /Building Inspector Under direction of the Construction Official, has the subordinate administrative responsibility for administering the Building Subcode of the NJ State Uniform Construction Code, and inspects all buildings and construction projects to ensure that compliance with plans and specifications is achieved; does other related duties as needed. Applicants must possess a valid license as an HHS Building Subcode Official issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, as well as a valid NJ driver’s license. NJ CSC title code and job description https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/05048.htm
Salary range $85,262.00 to $95,600.00. Full-time position, 35 hours per week, with full benefits package. Position is provisional and subject to the Civil Service exam process. Applications can be downloaded at https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ Applications and resumes must be submitted to the Personnel Department at 410 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. The Town of Kearny is an equal opportunity employer
37W03
PART TIME CUSTODIAN NEEDED
Reliable individual to maintain a clean and orderly facility by performing routine tasks 8 to 12 hours per week: Including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, emptying and removing trash, cleaning restrooms and restocking supplies. Must be detail oriented, physically fit, able to work independently and speak English. Contact First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Kearny N.J. at 201-991-3513 weekday mornings from 9 till noon
36W03
Keyboarding Clerk
The Town of Kearny is seeking a reliable and detail-oriented individual for the position of Keyboarding Clerk to work in the Construction Code Department. Under close supervision, the selected candidate will perform routine, repetitive clerical work involving the processing of various documents and data entry tasks. The role requires proficiency in keyboarding and accuracy in completing assigned tasks. Full job description can be found at https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/01268.htm.
Salary is $39,280, 35 hrs. per week, working hours are Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm. This position includes full benefit package and PERS pension enrollment. To download an application visit https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/. Applications and resumes must be submitted to the Personnel Department at 410 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. The Town of Kearny is an equal opportunity employer. 37W03
PART TIME for Property Management Clerk must be bi-lingual Spanish or Portuguese. Must be proficient with computers and have good communication skills. Email resume to C21DeniseL@gmail.com
36W03
-Rami Alrabaa
