e-Newspaper for Feb. 12, 2025 by The Observer Newspaper

Madden promoted to captain at the Kearny Fire Department Page 3

Four Chaplains remembered at stunning liturgy

One of them, the Rev. John Washington was parochial vicar at St. Stephen’s Church during WWII

In the top photo, the celebrants process out of the church, with the Rev. Joseph Mancini, pastor of St. Stephen’s, front and center. In the bottom photo, the Kearny Police Department’s Color Guard processes into the church prior to the start of the liturgy.

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

hen one thinks of a Roman Catholic Mass, it is not often the words “Pomp and Circumstance” may be used to describe it. But at least one time a year — in this case, it was Sunday, Feb. 2, at noon at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny, that’s exactly what happened as the parish celebrated and recalled native son, the Rev. John Washington — and three other chaplains — who gave their lives to save others on the USAT ship Dorchester on Feb. 3, 1943.

Rabbi Alexander Goode and two Protestant ministers the Rev. George Fox and the Rev. Clark Poling also perished on that fateful day.

But the Rev. Joseph Mancini, pastor of St. Stephen’s, along with many of his predecessors, from the Revs. Michael Desmond to Bill Hatcher to Mark Dooley and many others, has done everything in his power to keep the memory of the Four Chaplains alive, now 82 years after their ultimate sacrifice.

Mancini and other clergy were joined by the Most Rev. Michael

A. Saporito, the regional bishop for Bergen County, who was the main celebrant.

Hundreds of worshipers were also on hand, including Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, Councilmembers Jerry Ficeto (the town’s UVO liaison), Stathis Theodoropoulos, Eileen Eckel, the Kearny Police Color Guard, the St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band, and scores of veterans from Kearny to Belleville and beyond.

The Four Chaplains lost their lives in the cold waters of the North Atlantic that February Day after the Dorchester was torpedoed by a German submarine.

According to the St. Stephen’s Four Chaplains remembrance, the men moved about the ship as it went down to keep up the spirits of those on board.

Sadly, many died because there were not enough life jackets aboard the ship. And each of the Four took off their jackets and saved the lives of troops who otherwise would have perished.

See more images from the 2025 Four Chaplains Mass on page no. 5.

Photos by Denise Ficeto

Applications for Kearny Hometown Heroes banners are open

pplications for the wildly popular Kearny Hometown Heroes Banner program reopened earlier this week.

The program, aimed at honoring and recognizing the brave men and women who are either military veterans or active military members who live or have previously lived in Kearny, is presented by the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (KUEZ) and the Mayor Carol Jean Doyle and the Town Council in partnership with the American Legion Post No. 99, VFW Post No. 1302-Wilson-Gugelman and West Hudson Marine Corp League.

Applications will be accepted through March 24.

Sponsors can be families, friends, businesses or organizations.

Each banner will be available for sponsorship at a cost of $110, which includes installation and features the name, photograph and service details of the hero. This year, banners will be displayed throughout Kearny from Memorial Day to Veterans Day. Printed Kearny Hometown Heroes application forms are available at Kearny Town Hall, the KUEZ office (Town Hall Annex rear entrance) and at each of the UVO houses along Belgrove Drive. Forms may be downloaded at www.kearnynj.org, or completed digitally at tinyurl.com/ HometownHeroesForm. For additional information, call (201) 697-1409 or send an email to email KUEZ@kearnynj. org

Yet another Scout from Unit 305 ascends to Eagle

Another Boy Scout from Unit No. 305 has achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle.

The unit convened an Eagle Court of Honor at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny late last year to celebrate the accomplishment of Harrison resident Thomas Vinacco, who was recognized for achieving the highest rank in Scouting.

Vinacco is a long-time member of Unit 305 having, begun his career in Scouting as a Cub. He was awarded the Arrow of Light and crossed over into

Troop 305 where he advanced through the ranks. Vinacco graduated from National Youth Leadership Training in August 2022 and later held the position of Senior Patrol Leader of Unit 305, implementing the leadership training he received.

Vinacco’s Eagle Scout Service Project benefited our local community theater, WHATCo.

Working alongside his fellow Scouts and leaders, he built portable dressing rooms, costume storage and make-up stations for WHATCo.

Vinacco had been working

with West Hudson Arts and Theater Company (WHATCo) since 2020, building sets and working on sound and lighting crew.

The dressing rooms were purposely built in a manner to be taken apart and moved when needed. The project would not have been possible without the help of many people through-

out the West Hudson community and a generous contribution from a local contractor.

Approximately 4% of Scouts merit the rank of Eagle Scout. To earn the rank, a Scout must complete 21 merit badges of which 13 are required. A Scout must also complete an extensive community-service project that benefits a the community.

The Eagle Candidate is expected to fundraise, secure materials and oversee the project.

Unit 305 thanked Brandi-Leigh Miller, Michael Conlon, Brianna Conlon, David Nelson and the Rev. Joseph Mancini, St. Stephen’s pastor, for their contribution to the Eagle Court of Honor.

Madden promoted to KFD captain

At the recent meeting of the Mayor and Town Council Feb. 4, 2025, Fireﬁghter Daniel Madden was promoted to Fire Captain. Mayor Carol Jean Doyle administered the Oath of Ofﬁce in front of his family, friends, colleagues and members of the public. Seen here with Capt. Madden are Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, the Town Council and Fire Chief Joseph P. Mastandrea. Photo by Barbara B. Goldberg

Thomas Vinacco

KPD: Man rode helmetless on a stolen motorcycle

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

If you’re going to conspicuously ride on a motorcycle without helmets, you might want to make sure that motorcycle isn’t hot. But for two Newark residents, their brazen decision to ride around on a stolen bike, helmetless, has

landed them both behind bars, Det. Sgt. Mike Gontarczuk, the Kearny Police Department’s public-information officer, said.

According to Gontarczuk:

On Feb. 4, shortly before 6 p.m., Lt. Jay Ward and Officer John Fearon, assigned to plain clothes patrol, were on Passaic Avenue when they observed a motorcycle

with two occupants. Neither had a helmet on and the license place came back as fictitious. Ward and Fearon stopped the motorcycle and the riders were identified as Ismael Gonzalez, 45, of Newark, who was driving and Wendy M. Cerret, 44, of Newark, a passenger. Since the license plate was fictitious, the vehicle identification

number (VIN) was checked. Officers learned the motorcycle was reported stolen in Jersey City. Both riders were arrested. Marijuana and fireball whiskey was found during the search incident to arrest; however, the occupants did not appear too impaired to drive.

The motorcycle was towed so it could be returned to its owner. Gonzalez was found to have a $500 warrant issued by East Orange (however, NJ no longer allows arrest for such warrants so a new court date was provided). He was charged with receiving stolen property, driving with a suspended license, riding without a helmet, driving without a license, driving without insurance coverage and utilizing a fictitious license place. Cerret was found to have a $5,000 warrant issued by Newark and was also charged with receiving stolen property and riding without a helmet.

Meanwhile, a few weeks earlier, the alertness of a Kearny crossing guard led to police getting someone who should not have been behind the wheel off the streets after determining the man was drunk, Gontarczuk said.

On Jan. 22, at approximately 11:12 a.m., Sgt. Mat Lopez, and Officers Christian Medina, Angel Martinez and Damian Kolodziej responded to the area of Stewart Avenue and Elm Street, where a crossing guard told then an intoxicated male who they observed drinking and was now asleep at the wheel of a vehicle.

Naturally, this posed a dangerous situation with school in session.

Officers found a man slumped over in a Honda CRV, with the engine running. They woke him and observed signs of intoxication and multiple bottles of vodka. When the man exited the vehicle, he had trouble standing up. After SFST were conducted by Officer Medina, Ervin Cuntacen, 42, of West New York was arrested and his vehicle was towed. Airplane bottles of Smirnoff vodka were found in his pockets. Once at

KPDHQ, Cuntacen refused to provide samples of his breath, as required by law. As such, he was ultimately charged with DWI, refusal to submit samples, DWI within 1,000ft of a school, after which he was released to a friend.

On Feb. 5, at about 8 a.m., a man parked his 2024 Toyota in the ShopRite parking lot on Passaic Avenue. Regrettably, the vehicle was stolen, which was reported to Officer Taylor Latka. Camera footage of the suspect was obtained, with police noting the suspect’s distinctive hairstyle and beard, and his direction of flight toward Newark.

Later that day, Det. Jordenson Jean extracted video footage of the suspect loitering around various areas near ShopRite before the vehicle theft, biding his time until opportunity presented itself. He also contacted Toyota Vehicle Connected Services and was able to obtain the GPS location of the Toyota, which was near the intersection of Broadway and Clark, in Newark.

Sgt. Ryan Stickno, along with Det. Jean and Danny Esteves responded there, and to their surprise, found the vehicle parked and the very same suspect from ShopRite, who was still wearing the same clothing, leaning on it. The suspect was detained and identified himself as Michael Christopher. He was arrested, during which time narcotics paraphernalia was found on his person. Once at the Kearny Police Department, officers learned the suspect had lied about his name and date of birth. His true identity is Joseph T. Galgano, 38, of Newark.

He was charged with theft of a motor vehicle and criminal complaints for offenses committed in Newark are pending. Furthermore, Galgano was found to be a NCIC wanted person via NJ State Parole, in addition to which officers found three separate warrants to be outstanding for his arrest, totaling $5,300 in bail. State Parole took custody, ultimately.

Remembering Father John Washington & the Four Chaplains

Let’s Talk

Estate

HOW RISING RATES AFFECT BUYERS

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Whether you are buying or selling, we are the real estate professionals you’ll want to guide you to a successful conclusion. The rigorous training, years of experience, and love of what we do make us eminently qualified to lead you through the realities of current real estate trends and transactions. Because of our contacts and access to numerous tools for finding the solution you’re hoping for, we can make the process easy for you. All it takes is a call to set up an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”

photo of Jarlynn Hyde:

In the first photo, from left, Councilwoman Eileen Eckel, the Rev. Joseph Mancini, the Most Rev. Michael Saporito, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, Councilman Jerry Ficeto, Kearny Police Chief Scott Macfie, Councilman Stathis Theodoropoulos and Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro. Former Mayor Alberto Santos and retired police Chief George King may be seen in the background. In the photo at right, Mancini, Saporito and The Observer’s Kevin Canessa chat about the Mets after the Mass. All three are long-suffering fans.

Photos by Kevin Canessa & Jerry Ficeto

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

COUNTY OF HUDSON NOTICE TO RESPONDENTS

Notice is hereby given that Request for Qualifications will be received by the County of Hudson, State of New Jersey at the Administration Annex Building, Purchasing Department, 3rd Floor, 567 Pavonia Avenue, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 on February 19, 2025 at 11:00

a.m. prevailing time, and at that time and place publicly opened and read for the following: REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE PROVISION OF PROFESSIONAL ENGIEERING SERVICES FOR THE HUDSON COUNTY PLANNING BOARD

Requests for Qualifications may be viewed and obtained through the Hudson County Purchasing Department website, hudsoncountynjprocure. org http://www.hudsonprocure.org. Applicants must register on the Purchasing Portal in order to download the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and to receive Addenda, if issued. All RFQ Addenda will be posted on the Purchasing Portal/Website. Therefore, all interested Respondents should check the Purchasing Portal Website from now through the RFQ opening. It is the sole responsibility of the Respondent to be knowledgeable of all Addenda related to this procurement. Proposals shall be submitted in accordance with the specifications contained in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Request for Qualifications may be submitted in person or by courier service. Though Request for Qualifications may be sent by courier services, the County takes no responsibility for the loss, non delivery or physical condition of the Qualification Statements so sent. Please state on the envelope that the contents contain a Request for Qualifications. Respondents are required to comply with requirements of N.J.S.A.19:44A-20.4 et seq.

The County reserves the right, in its sole judgment, to reject any Respondent that submits incomplete responses to this Request for Qualifications, or a Qualification Statement that is not responsive to the requirements of this Request for Qualifications.

BY: Christine Moro

Purchasing Agent

For: Cheryl Fuller, Director Department of Finance & Administration ($19.95)

COUNTY OF HUDSON NOTICE TO RESPONDENTS

ADDENDUM NO. 1 REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF A CONSULTANT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND DISTRIBUTION OF AN EDUCATIONAL NEWSLETTER

A number of clarifications and/or revisions have been made on the above stated RFP, which is due on February 21, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Anyone requiring a copy of said clarification and/ or revisions can download the information by registering on the County’s website at hhtp:// www.hudsoncountynjprocure.org.

By: Christine Moro

Purchasing Agent

For: Cheryl Fuller, Director Department of Finance & Administration ($9.80)

COUNTY OF HUDSON REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATION STATEMENTS NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Qualification Statements will be received by the County of Hudson, State of New Jersey, at the Administration Building Annex, Purchasing Department, 567 Pavonia Avenue, 3rd Floor, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. prevailing time and at that time and place shall be publicly opened and the names of Respondents read for the following: QUALIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR FOR THE PROVISION OF “ON- CALL” ENG NEERING SERVICES PROVIDED TO THE HUDSON COUNTY ENGINEER’S OFFICE

This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) is being publicly advertised and any firm or person licensed in the State of New Jersey may reply with a Qualification Statement. Requests for Qualifications may be viewed and obtained through the Hudson County Purchasing Department website, hudsoncountynjprocure.org. Applicants must register on the Purchasing Portal in order to download the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and to receive Addenda, if issued. All RFQ Addenda will be posted on the Purchasing Portal/Website. Therefore, all interested Respondents should check the Purchasing Portal

Website from now through the RFQ opening. It is the sole responsibility of the Respondent to be knowledgeable of all Addenda related to this procurement. Proposals shall be submitted in accordance with the specifications contained in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ).Qualifications may be submitted in person or by courier service. Though Qualification Statements may be sent by courier service, the County takes no responsibility for the loss, non-delivery or physical condition of the Qualification Statements so sent.

The Qualification Statements are being solicited through a fair and open process in accordance with N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4 et seq. The County reserves the right, in its sole judgment, to reject any Respondent that submits incomplete responses to this Request for Qualifications or a Qualification Statement that is not responsive to the requirements of this Request for Qualifications.

The Qualification Statements should consist of one original and four (4) bound copies sealed and labeled:

FOR THE PROVISION OF “ON- CALL” ENGINEERING SERVICES PROVIDED TO THE HUDSON COUNTY ENGINEER’S OFFICE

Consultant selection will be based on the qualifications of the firm, key staff assigned to the County and on the criteria set forth within this Request for Qualifications which include but are not limited to the firm’s ability to understand the purposes, goals and objectives of the County and establish appropriate work activities by task to produce recommendations needed. Qualifications shall be detailed (for the consultant and its sub-consultants) and shall include a statement of qualifications, detailed experience and expertise, description of relevant work, and resumes of key personnel. Resumes of each employee should be limited to no more than two pages each.

Issued by: Christine Moro, Esq., Q.P.A., Purchasing Agent For: Craig Guy County Executive Denise C. D’Alessandro Director, Department of Roads & Public Property Thomas Malavasi, PE, PP, CME, CPWM County Engineer Adv.: 02/06/2025

($29.75)

COUNTY OF HUDSON REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Qualifications will be received by the County of Hudson, State of New Jersey, at the Administration Building Annex, Purchasing Department, 567 Pavonia Avenue, 3rd Floor, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. prevailing time, and at that time and place shall be publicly opened and the names of Respondents read for the following:

QUALIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT OF MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL REPAIRS TO THE JOINT HUDSON/ESSEX COUNTY BRIDGES

This Request for Qualification (RFQ) is being publicly advertised and any firm or person licensed in the State of New Jersey may reply with a Qualification Statement. Requests for Qualifications may be viewed and obtained through the Hudson County Purchasing Department website, hudsoncountynjprocure.org. Applicants must register on the Purchasing Portal in order to download the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and to receive Addenda, if issued. All RFQ Addenda will be posted on the Purchasing Portal/Website. Therefore, all interested Respondents should check the Purchasing Portal Website from now through the RFQ opening. It is the sole responsibility of the Respondent to be knowledgeable of all Addenda related to this procurement. Proposals shall be submitted in accordance with the specifications contained in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Qualifications may be submitted in person or by courier service. Though Qualification Statements may be sent by courier service, the County takes no responsibility for the loss, non-delivery or physical condition of the Qualification Statements so sent.

The Qualification Statements should consist of one original and three (3) bound copies sealed and labeled CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT OF MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL REPAIRS TO THE JOINT HUDSON/ESSEX COUNTY

BRIDGES. Consultant selection will be based on the qualifications of the firm, key staff assigned to the County and on the firm’s ability to understand the purposes, goals and objectives of the County and establish appropriate work activities by task to produce recommendations needed. Qualifications shall be detailed (for the consultant and its sub-consultants) and shall include a statement of qualifications, detailed experience and expertise, description of relevant work, and resumes of key personnel. Resumes of each employee should be limited to no more than two pages each. All Respondents deemed qualified will be asked to submit a Cost Proposal for specified services. Please do not submit a Cost Proposal at this time.

Issued by:

Christine Moro, Esq., Q.P.A., Purchasing Agent

For: Craig Guy, County Executive

Denise C. D’Alessandro ,Director, Department of Roads & Public Property

Thomas Malavasi, PE, PP, CME, CPWM, County Engineer

Adv.: 02/06/2025 ($25.20)

HUDSON REGIONAL HEALTH COMMISSION, Plaintiff, vs.

25 RIVER DR. SO. URBAN RENEWAL; SKYLARK ON THE HUDSON

Defendant(s)

SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY HUDSON COUNTY, LAW DIVISION

Docket No.: L-3576-24

LEGAL NOTICE OF HEARING

HRHC Facility ID 0611230 and Ref: H210114

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Order to Show Cause has been issued by the Superior Court of Hudson County in the above-entitled matter, directing Defendants 25 River Dr. So. Urban Renewal and Skylark on the Hudson to appear before the Court on February 14, 2025 at 9:00 AM, Floor 4, Justice W.J. Brennan Courthouse, 583 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306, to show cause, if any, why the Court should not enter a judgment against Defendants 25 River Dr. So. Urban Renewal and Skylark on the Hudson for violations of various state laws pertaining to environmental protection like the Air Pollution Control Act.

Plaintiff Hudson Regional Health Commission is seeking the entry of a judgment in the amount of $2,900.00 against Defendants 25 River Dr. So. Urban Renewal and Skylark on the Hudson. A copy of the order to show cause and related pleadings are on file with the Clerk of Hudson County Superior Court and are available for public inspection during regular business hours.

MARCO DI STEFANO

ASSISTANT COUNTY COUNSEL

DATED: February 4, 2025

($24.00)

TOWN OF KEARNY PUBLIC NOTICE

2025-(O)-05

Ordinance Vacating Handicapped Parking Space at 257 Laurel Avenue THE ABOVE ORDINANCE WAS INTRODUCED AND PASSED ON FIRST READING AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF KEARNY, NEW JERSEY HELD FEBRUARY 4, 2025. THE ORDINANCE WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 25, 2025, AT 7:00 P.M., IN THE TOWN OF KEARNY, KEARNY TOWN HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBER, 402 KEARNY AVENUE, KEARNY, NJ 07032. A FULL COPY OF THE ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK.

($10.50)

TOWN OF KEARNY PUBLIC NOTICE

2025-(O)-06

Ordinance Rescinding Ordinance 2024-07

Regarding Council Agenda Meetings THE ABOVE ORDINANCE WAS INTRODUCED AND PASSED ON FIRST READING AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF KEARNY, NEW JERSEY HELD FEBRUARY 4, 2025. THE ORDINANCE WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 25, 2025, AT 7:00 P.M., IN THE TOWN OF KEARNY, KEARNY TOWN HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBER, 402 KEARNY AVENUE, KEARNY, NJ 07032. A FULL COPY OF THE ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK. PATRICIA CARPENTER TOWN CLERK ($11.00)

TOWN OF KEARNY PUBLIC NOTICE 2025-(O)-07

Ordinance Amending Section 7-37.1(b) Regarding Public Parking Behind Town Hall THE ABOVE ORDINANCE WAS INTRODUCED AND PASSED ON FIRST READING AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF KEARNY, NEW JERSEY HELD FEBRUARY 4, 2025. THE ORDINANCE WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWN COUNCIL TO BE HELD ON FEBRUARY 25, 2025, AT 7:00 P.M., IN THE TOWN OF KEARNY, KEARNY TOWN HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBER, 402 KEARNY AVENUE, KEARNY, NJ 07032. A FULL COPY OF THE ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK

PATRICIA CARPENTER TOWN CLERK ($11.00)

TOWN OF KEARNY

PUBLIC NOTICE

2025-(O)-01

Ordinance Vacating Handicapped Parking Space at 600 Devon Street

DURING A REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF KEARNY HELD FEBRUARY 4, 2025, THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE WAS PASSED ON SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE ORDERED SIGNED BY THE MAYOR, ATTESTED TO BY THE TOWN CLERK, ENGROSSED IN THE ORDINANCE BOOK AND PUBLISHED ACCORDING TO LAW. A FULL COPY IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION IN THE TOWN CLERK’S OFFICE. PATRICIA CARPENTER TOWN CLERK ($9.50)

TOWN OF KEARNY PUBLIC NOTICE

2025-(O)-02

Ordinance Vacating Handicapped Parking Spaces at 385 Hickory Street, 132 Wilson Avenue, and 676 Elm Street

PATRICIA CARPENTER TOWN CLERK ($10.00)

TOWN OF KEARNY PUBLIC NOTICE

2025-(O)-03

Ordinance Establishing Handicapped Parking Spaces at 144 Kearny Avenue and 339 Davis Avenue

PATRICIA CARPENTER TOWN CLERK ($11.00)

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF A BRANDING CONSULTANT TO ASSIST HUDSON COUNTY IN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A BRAND IDENTITY TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF ITS policies, programs, and services

The County of Hudson (the “County”) is seeking Proposals from qualified Respondents for the procurement of: “A BRANDING CONSULTANT TO ASSIST HUDSON COUNTY IN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A BRAND IDENTITY TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF ITS policies, programs, and services” for the Office of the County Executive. Award will be made pursuant to the Competitive Contracting provisions in the Local Public Contracts Law found at N.J.S.A. 40A:11-4.1 et seq.

Notice is hereby given that on March 4, 2025 by no later than 11:00 a.m., sealed Proposals will be received by the Hudson County Division of Purchasing at 567 Pavonia Avenue, 3rd Floor, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 at which time and place Proposals will be opened and read in public for:

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF A BRANDING CONSULTANT TO ASSIST HUDSON COUNTY IN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A BRAND IDENTITY TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF ITS policies, programs, and services

Instructions and Proposal Forms must be obtained on the County Purchasing Portal at http:// www.hudsoncountynjprocure.org/. It is the Respondent’s responsibility to ensure that the Proposal package is hand- delivered (either by the vendor or courier service) to the County no later than the Proposal opening date and time, March 4, 2025 at 11:00a.m. Any Proposal received after this deadline, or any amended deadline established by the Division of Purchasing, will not be accepted, under any circumstances, regardless of the method of delivery.

Responses must be made on the standard Proposal forms, be enclosed in a sealed package bearing the name and address of the Respondent and the title, “A BRANDING CONSULTANT TO ASSIST HUDSON COUNTY IN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A BRAND IDENTITY TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF ITS policies, programs, and services” printed on the outside and addressed to the Hudson County Division of Purchasing at the address above. Any Addenda will be advertised as required by law in both the Star Ledger and the Kearny Observer and issued on the County Purchasing Portal. All interested Respondents should check the website from now through the Proposal opening date and time for Addenda. All vendors who have downloaded the opportunity on the purchasing portal will receive notification that an addendum has been posted for their review. It is the sole responsibility of the Respondent to be knowledgeable of all Addenda related to this procurement and to include properly completed addenda forms in the proposal as required. Failure to do so will automatically deem a proposal non-responsive.

COUNTY OF HUDSON, NEW JERSEY Division of Purchasing ($38.50)

COUNTY OF HUDSON NOTICE TO RESPONDENTS

ADDENDUM NO. 1

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE PROVISION OF LICENSED SEWAGE PLANT OPERATOR AND LICENSED COLLECTION SYSTEM OPERATOR SERVICES FOR HUDSON COUNTY MEADOWVIEW CAMPUS

A number of clarifications and/or revisions have been made on the above stated RFQ, which was due on February 13 , 2025 at 11:00. This RFQ is now due on: Tuesday, FEBRUARY 25, 2025 @ 11:00 A.M. Anyone requiring a copy of said clarification and/ or revisions can download the information by registering on the County’s website at hhtp:// www.hudsoncountynjprocure.org.

(Continued on page 8)

SPORTS & HEALTH

LANDY PASSES THE TORCH

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Whenever Nick Landy needs a reminder of all that the Harrison boys volleyball program has accomplished during his tenure as head coach, all he needs to do is walk past the trophy case outside of the gymnasium or into the gymnasium and see the banners dedicated to its team and individual accomplishments.

After a 17-year stint in which Harrison went from an afterthought to a legitimate state power, Landy stepped down as its head coach in January.

Anthony Sabia, a Blue Tide alum and Landy’s top assistant for the past 16 seasons has been announced as the next head coach.

“It was a great transformation,” said Landy. ”I’ve always been a soccer fan and a fan of the (Harrison) program, but it was nice

to have another team that was a competitor in the County playoffs and in the states every year. Now we even have a banner up in the school that highlights the kids that had a thousand kills and assists and that’s really cool”

Landry has coached multiple sports over the years at his alma mater, but it’s been boys volleyball where he’s enjoyed his greatest success.

Landy leaves with a 311-144 record, a stint that includes four Hudson County championships, two NJSIAA North 2, state sectional titles and five conference titles. Despite all the honors during his tenure, which includes being named State Coach of the Year by NJ.com in 2016, Landy would quickly point out that it took a group effort to reach these accomplishments.

“I always say I wasn’t a solo act. It was largely due to my assistant coaches and the players,” Landy

said. “They bought into the whole program and did a lot of work on their own, whether it was club or open gyms. That has a lot to do with the success of everything.”

In 2015, Harrison broke through when it won its first Hudson County and North 2 championships. The following season, the Blue Tide repeated in both and made it all the way to the Tournament of Champions final before falling to Southern Regional.

All-State outside hitter Piot Namiotko led the way for a Harrison team, which was largely built by players who had come to the sport with different backgrounds and experience.

“The kids used to play in a school in Passaic where they would and they’d pay $3 to play in an open gym. They were just so into it and there was a group of them that would go together and play. That was really cool to see. And these were also kids that

played other sports. They played football, they played basketball, but then they found this kindred spirit of everybody liking to play volleyball so they all got into it.”

Harrison again reached the top of Hudson County with titles in 2023 and 2024, but Landy’s impact has always been more that what can be measured in wins and losses.

The summer leagues and open gyms Harrison hosts throughout the year continue to grow, as have the off-court activities that strengthened the bonds within the program.

“One of the biggest takeaways that I’ll take with me is just the way he was able to make kids a part of something, and that doesn’t just happen automatically,” said Sabia. “The way that he fostered team building and family in a program are the things that doesn’t show up on a stat sheet. The team dinners that he put together, the

trips we would take to watch alumni play in college, that’s all stuff he brought to the program. Those are the type of activities and events and times together with your teammates that bring you closer together.”

Those connections to the program are sure to continue on as Sabia recently announced a coaching staff composed entirely of Harrison alums who have remained connected with the program.

It’s one of several reasons that Landy doesn’t expect too much to change with Harrison boys volleyball.

“It’s in good hands,” Landy said. “I feel like it’s just the program and the fact that all of the coaches are our former players, I don’t think anything (is going to change).

“The only thing that’s going to change is I’m going to be across the court in the stands as opposed to the other side of the court.”

Photo by Jason Bernstein

(Continues from page 6)

By: Christine Moro Purchasing Agent

For: Cheryl Fuller, Director Department of Finance & Administration

($12.50

Superior Court of New Jersey Chancery Division Hudson County

Docket Number: F-011118-24

NOTICE TO ABSENT DEFENDANTS

(L.S.) STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO: JACK ROSS

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED to serve upon Friedman Vartolo LLP, Attorneys for Plaintiff, whose address is 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160, Garden City, NY 11530, an answer to the Complaint in Foreclosure, Amended Complaint and Amendment(s) and Order(s), if any, filed in a Civil Action, in which U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE OF THE BUNGALOW SERIES IV TRUST is Plaintiff and VONETTA REEVES, et al., are Defendants, pending in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, Hudson County, under Docket Number: F-011118-24, within thirty-five (35) days after the date of

publication of this notice, exclusive of the date of service. If you fail to do so, judgment by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint, amended complaint, amendment(s), order(s), if any. You shall file your answer and proof of service in duplicate with the Clerk of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Hughes Justice Complex, 25 West Market Street, Trenton, New Jersey 08625, in accordance with the Rules of Civil Practice and Procedure.

This action has been commenced and is pending to foreclose a mortgage and recover possession of certain lands and premises, as follows: The mortgage being foreclosed is dated September 13, 2006, and made by Vonetta Reeves and Jack Ross, as Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems Inc. (“MERS”) as a nominee for HSBC Mortgage Corporation, which mortgage was recorded on September 19, 2006 in Hudson County, in Book 14893 of Mortgages for said County on Page 208 et seq. The lands and premises affected by this action and for which possession is sought are commonly known as 240 Clinton Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07304, and also known as Lot 49 f/k/a 135 in Block 18302 f/k/a 1806.

If you are unable to obtain an attorney, you may communicate with the New Jersey State Bar Association by calling (732) 249-5000. You may also contact the lawyer referral services of the County of Venue by calling (856) 482-0618. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may com-

municate with the Legal Services Office of the County of Venue by calling (856) 964-2010.

You, Jack Ross, are hereby made a party defendant to the foreclosure action because you have or may claim to have some right, title, lien or other interest affecting the real estate being foreclosed, by virtue of ownership, inheritance, descent, intestacy, devise, dower, curtsey, mortgage, deed, or conveyance, enter of judgment or other legal or lawful right. The nature of which and the reason that you and each of you are joined as defendants is set forth with particularity in the Complaint, Amended Complaint, Amendment(s), Order(s), if any, a copy of which will be furnished to you on request addressed to the attorneys for the plaintiff at the above mentioned address.

MICHELLE M. SMITH

Clerk of the Superior Court ($388.00)

Superior Court of New Jersey Chancery Division Hudson County

Docket Number: F-012136-24

NOTICE TO ABSENT DEFENDANTS (L.S.) STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO:

MIGDALIA M. ORTIZ

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED to serve upon Friedman Vartolo LLP, Attorneys for Plaintiff, whose address is 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160, Garden

City, NY 11530, an answer to the Complaint in Foreclosure, Amended Complaint and Amendment(s) and Order(s), if any, filed in a Civil Action, in which ATHENE ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY is Plaintiff and MARIO URGILES, et al., are Defendants, pending in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, Hudson County, under Docket Number: F-012136-24, within thirtyfive (35) days after the date of publication of this notice, exclusive of the date of service. If you fail to do so, judgment by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint, amended complaint, amendment(s), order(s), if any. You shall file your answer and proof of service in duplicate with the Clerk of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Hughes Justice Complex, 25 West Market Street, Trenton, New Jersey 08625, in accordance with the Rules of Civil Practice and Procedure.

This action has been commenced and is pending to foreclose a mortgage and recover possession of certain lands and premises, as follows: The mortgage being foreclosed is dated May 24, 2002, and made by Mario Urgiles, as Mortgagors, to Lancaster Mortgage Bankers, LLC, which mortgage was recorded on June 19, 2002 in Hudson County, in Book 9001 of Mortgages for said County on Page 23 et seq. The lands and premises affected by this action and for which possession is sought are commonly known as 6503 Madison Street

6503 Madison Street, West New York, NJ 07093 a/k/a 6503-6505 Madison Street, West New York, NJ 07093, and also known as Lot 16 in Block 155.

You, Migdalia M. Ortiz, are hereby made a party defendant to the foreclosure action because you have or may claim to have some right, title, lien or other interest affecting the real estate being foreclosed, by virtue of ownership, inheritance, descent, intestacy, devise, dower, curtsey, mortgage, deed, or conveyance, enter of judgment or other legal or lawful right. The nature of which and the reason that you and each of you are joined as defendants is set forth with particularity in the Complaint, Amended Complaint, Amendment(s), Order(s), if any, a copy of which will be furnished to you on request addressed to the attorneys for the plaintiff at the abovementioned address.

MICHELLE M. SMITH Clerk of the Superior Court ($324.95)

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Santino DePaola

Nino DePaola, a longtime resident of Kearny, died Tuesday, Jan. 15.

He was 87.

Born in Italy, Nino emigrated to the US as a young man where he met his wife, Kathleen (nee Krieger) of North Arlington. The two were married until Kathleen’s death in 2005.

Nino was the owner and proprietor of Nino’s Men’s Fashions in Kearny until his retirement in 2003.

He is survived by his son, Nino, his wife, Kira, and their daughter, Olivia - as well as his brother, Mario and sister, Leda.

A commitment ceremony took place in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Mary Burke

Mary A. Burke, 90, died Jan. 5, 2025, at Community Medical Center, Toms River.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit the ThieleReid Family Funeral Home, 585 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, on Sunday, Feb. 16 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. A funeral blessing will be offered at 1 p.m.

OBITUARIES

Sorrows Church in Kearny and later at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Toms River. She was a member of the Lithuanian Club of Kearny and the Lithuanian Club in Toms River.

Mary loved dancing, singing and traveling.

She is survived by her children, James P. Handlin, William G. Handlin (Alane), Marcella G. Callaghan and Catherine L. Ferrer (Giuseppe). She was the grandmother of Natalie, Austin, Sara, Donald, Allen, Melanie, Jonathan and CJ. Mary was predeceased by her son, Charles A. Handlin, one brother, Raymond J. Burke, and two grandchildren, Nikki Handlin and Michael John Handlin. She was also predeceased by her lifelong friends, Dolores, Yolanda and Carol, who she loved like sisters.

Sheila R. Carroll

Sheila R. Carroll, 87, of North Arlington, died Feb. 5, 2025, at Valley Hospital in Paramus.

Sheila was born on May 30, 1937, in Newark, to her parents Frank and Susan (Bloksberg) Carroll. Her family moved to Kearny while Sheila was in middle school, and Sheila graduated from Kearny High School in 1952. Sheila was a devout Catholic, raised to be a woman of strong Christian faith, but she was also very proud of her Jewish heritage that came from her mother’s family.

She was a parishioner of Queen of Peace Church in North Arlington. Sheila worked for the State of New Jersey as a licensing clerk. She retired in 2007.

Sheila was the former wife of George Griggs. Together they raised three children.

Shaw-Buyus

Born in Orange, Ms. Burke was the only daughter of James and Mary Richcufsky Burke. She graduated from Kearny High School in 1953 and lived in Kearny for many years before moving to Whiting 37 years ago.

Mary was a claims adjudicator for Blue Cross Blue Shield in Newark for 22 years before retiring.

Her most proud accomplishments in life were raising her five children and providing a loving happy home for her family when she purchased her first home in Kearny at 409 Davis Ave.

Ms. Burke was a long-time parishioner at Our Lady of

Sheila deeply cherished her relationships with her children and their spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchild. She was the matriarch of the family who had an infectious smile.

She was always smiling because she was deeply proud of her family and felt blessed to have them close by. Her grandchildren adored her and loved celebrating birthdays, graduations, holidays and nights out with Grandma Sheila. She had a special bond with them, and they loved taking her out on the town, showing everyone that their Grandma was someone truly special.

She made them laugh, and

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

they knew they could tell her anything because their secret was safe with Grandma.

Sheila loved being around her family. Laughter and a good time were the golden rule, and many times that laughter revolved around her oldest son Tom’s attempt at humor. Sheila had a special way of making her family members feel that each of them was her favorite, but they loved to joke with Grandma Sheila that her youngest son Michael was really her “favorite.”

Her family, especially her daughter Susan, will miss

Continued on the next page

Mulligan Funeral Home

331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison

Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221 Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North 973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com

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.

991-0657

laughing with her about her many different hairstyles from her younger years. They will all miss her famous homemade chocolate and vanilla pound cakes that accompanied her to all the family gatherings, but most of all, they will miss her magnanimous presence in their lives.

Sheila is survived by her son Thomas Griggs and his wife Marie, her daughter Susan Consalvo and her husband Bernie, and her son Michael Griggs and his wife Dana. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren Olivia, Thomas Jr, Jillian, Brittany, Brandan, Bernie, Danielle,

Michael Jr. and Sean, along with her great-granddaughter

Brooklyn, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Sheila was predeceased by her parents Frank and Susan Carroll, her brother and sister-in-law

Gerald and Carol Carroll, her nephew Steven Carroll and her dear friend Carol Yurik.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny.

A Christian funeral Mass was celebrated at Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington.

Cremation followed the Mass. In lieu of flowers, kindly

consider a donation to the North Arlington Emergency Squad.

Rosario Navarro

Rosario Navarro died Jan. 29, 2025. She was 82. Born in Mexico, she had lived in Kearny the past 33 years.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home. Cremation was private.

Rosario is survived by her husband Sergio, children Sergio Jr. and Roxanna, her sister Martha, brother Luis and her grandchildren Priscilla, Christian, Sergio III and Joshua along with her great-grandson Ryan.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Carol Costello

Carol Costello (nee Van Volkenburgh) died Feb. 4, 2025.

She was 84.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Carol was originally from Kearny and raised her family in North Arlington. She was the owner of the High Seas Restaurant in North Arlington.

Wife of the late Angelo, she

is survived by her children

Debbie Gallagher, Dan Costello and Martin Costello, her grandchildren Billy Gallagher, Michael Costello, Danny Costello, Samantha Costello and Jack Costello along with her four greatgrandchildren

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Ignacio Ahedo

Ignacio Ahedo of Kearny, born in Spain, died Feb. 3, 2025. He was 92.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny. Husband of Maria (nee Maza) he was the father of Ignacio Ahedo (Maria), Maria Silva (Manny) and Edward Ahedo (Elaine). He is also survived by his grandchildren Monica, Manny, Adam, Natalie, Nichlos, Adriana and Antonia along with his great grandchildren Penelope, Sebastian, Isabella and Santi. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Manuel Reyna

Manuel Reyna, beloved husband, father and grandfather, died peacefully Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025. He was 91.

Born in Lima, Peru, he immigrated to the US and was a longtime resident of Kearny. Miguel was known for his kindness, wisdom and the warmth he extended to everyone he met. He loved fixing his car, cleaning the snow and cooking his famous “asado” for his family.

Miguel was a devoted husband to Maria, a cherished father to Cecilia and a loving grandfather to Amir.

His legacy of love, resilience and generosity will continue to live on through his family and the many lives he touched.

Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Mass was celebrated at Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

Miguel will be deeply missed and will forever remain in our hearts. “To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.”

Nutley’s Nellegar emerges into a dual threat

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

For most of her basketball career, Kaitlyn Nellegar has played the role of “undersized” forward.

The reality of often being matched up against girls three or four inches taller than her has made the 5-foot-8 Nellegar realize that she had to get creative in order to survive offensively in the post.

“I think I just kind of try to come up with some creative ways sometimes to score,” said Nellegar. “I can’t always just shoot over people. I got to maybe shot fake and then step through them or I just try to look for other ways than just going over people.”

Nellegar’s creativity has started to pay off at a time when her Nutley team was in desperate need of the offensive boost.

The sophomore forward has scored in double-figures in ninestraight games for the Raiders, a stretch that has seen Nellegar average 16.0 points and 13.8 rebounds per contest. During this time, Nellegar has posted eight dou-

ble-doubles, the last two coming in back-to-back wins over Payne Tech and Indian Hills on Friday and Saturday.

Nellegar’s post play makes her The Observer Athlete of the Week.

For the season, Nellegar is averaging 10.9 points and 13.7 rebounds per game, emerging as the top scorer for a young Nutley team that was in desperate need of an offensive boost following the season-ending knee injury to then-leading scorer Isabel Riccardi in early January.

“I’ve always worked on (my post moves), but I feel like I didn’t really see that I need to use it as much,” Nellegar said. “But now, being able to understand that I have to do that to score, it’s been a lot easier knowing that I do that, my chances of scoring will be better.”

ly.”

McNish-Natoli, more than anyone can relate to the challenges of being an undersized post player. At the University of Mount St. Vincent, McNish-Natoli turned herself into an all-league player despite being undersized at 5-foot-11.

“I think honestly knowing that I’m shorter, I have to work to get the rebound,” Nellegar said. “I feel a lot of times taller people kind of just stand there and wait for it. Knowing that I’m shorter, I try to get around people and box them out and jump up and get it before they even have a chance.”

“When Isabel got hurt, I was very nervous about if we were going to have that ability to continue to score,” head coach Kara McNish-Natoli said. “It’s very refreshing to see Kaitlyn step up as much as she has.”

Both Nellegar and McNish-Na-

toli point to the Jan. 25 win at Park Ridge as a turning point in her season. On that day, Nellegar erupted for 29 points and 18 rebounds to give the Raiders a 60-57 victory.

“In the beginning of the season, I think I was just trying to find my place,” said Nellegar, who reached double-figures in points in just two of her first eight games of the season. “I knew I could rebound, but I feel like lately, being able to score, I’ve built up the confidence.

“Looking back, I’m like wow, it’s been such a difference recent-

(current Nutley assistant and longtime Weehawken boys

says that to her. He’s like ‘you play the same way that coach

“I say that to her all the time,” McNish-Natoli said. “My dad (current Nutley assistant and longtime Weehawken boys basketball coach Jake McNish) says that to her. He’s like ‘you play the same way that coach played. You guys remind me of each other so much.’”

While scoring has not always come naturally to Nellegar, rebounding has always been a strong suit to her game.

Nutley has gone 5-4 during Nellegar’s scoring streak as she and freshman forward Gianna Albanese have combined to give the Raiders one-two combination in the post that McNish-Natoi have not had during her nine years with the program.

Their play has Nutley at 11-10 and in eighth place in the North 2, Group 3 power point standings heading into the final week before the cutoff.

Corneal dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that causes abnormal accumulation of material in the cornea, the eye’s clear outer layer. The cornea itself consists of five layers, with the third or middle layer, the stroma, being the thickest layer. The stroma gives the cornea its strength, elasticity, and clarity. Lattice corneal dystrophy is one of the more common types of corneal dystrophy, characterized by the accumulation of protein fibers in the stroma. The fibers develop a latticelike pattern in the stroma, causing it to become opaque or cloudy and impairing vision. Patients with significant scarring may benefit from PTK laser surgery to reshape the cornea and restore vision, while some patients may eventually require a corneal transplant.

An ophthalmologist can diagnose corneal dystrophy using a combination of tools and methods. The most important tool is an eye exam, especially specific parts of it like a slit lamp exam. The slit lamp exam involves using a special microscope to look inside your eyes. It lets providers see any changes or damage that happens with corneal dystrophy. To schedule an exam, please call 201-896-0096. We are conveniently located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.

P.S. Protein deposits may accumulate in the epithelial layer of the cornea, causing a condition called recurrent epithelial erosion that alters the cornea’s natural curvature and complicates vision issues.

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Chinese Catholics from across the Archdiocese of Newark and beyond came together in celebration of the Lunar New Year — the most significant holiday in many Asian communities — during a Feb. 2 Mass at Holy Cross Church in Harrison.

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Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., archbishop of Newark, presided over the liturgy.

The Mass was organized by the Chinese Catholic Apostolate and included two concelebrating Chinese priests — the Rev. Tongyang Shen and the Rev. John Lin Teng, as well as worship music performed in Chinese.

Attendees — many of whom wore red, which symbolizes good fortune in Chinese culture — listened attentively as Cardinal Tobin encouraged them to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit. They also prayed to Our Lady of China, a Marian apparition whose image was displayed at the front of the church.

Following the liturgy, participants gathered in the church’s lower level for fellowship and a festive Chinese meal. Children played traditional word games, while adults received gift bags filled with cultural delicacies. A dance group led by choreographer Sherry Chen closed out the event with an elaborate performance set to the Chinese liturgical song “My God, I Want to Worship You.”

“The Chinese Catholic community is grateful to the concelebrants, religious, and friends who traveled from the Metuchen Diocese, New York, and Pennsylvania to share in the joy and solidarity of our Lunar New Year Mass,” Sister Dong Hong Marie Zhang, the liaison to the archdiocesan Chinese community, said. “We are also deeply honored by Cardinal Tobin’s presence and support. This celebration was a moment of hope and inspiration for all of us.”

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Newark - 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.

N. Arlington - $2,100 Luxury Studio Apt. - Modern appliances, Full Bath, In-unit Laundry – private parking – New Building “The Bend” - fitness center, elevator and smart

$315,000

- Great Home Ownership opportunity in the heart of Iron Bound- 2 bdrms- 2 baths- open floor concept- 2 car garage.

2 Fam. - Large Renovated home 1st Fr-one bdrm one bath- 2nd Fr 2 bdrms, full bth, lr, dr, kit,w/access to 3rd floor bdrm, full bth, add room-fin bsmt w/ half bth, parking for up to 4 cars.

Kearny$115,000Delicatessen - Well Established, beloved staple in Kearny- Named Business of the Year .-

RENTAL! N. Arlington$2,350 - 1st Floor Apt.2 Bdrms, Renovated , large open floor plan, hardwood flrs, bonus sunroom, ample closets.

Kearny$2,200 Fully Renovated, hardwood floors Living rm, Eat-in-Kitchen, office, bonus room full bath, parking, no pets.

NEWS BRIEFS

KPSUE hosting bingo night

The Kearny Public School Uniform Exchange hosts a fundraising bingo night Sunday, March 2, at 6 p.m. at the Kearny American Legion, 314 Belgrove Drive. Admission is $20 which includes 10 bingo card books, a specialty prize sheet one 50/50 ticket and more. A cash bar and concessions will be available. Tickets will be sold at the door and are also available by visiting www.paypgl.com/ncp/ pqyment/JCAEJQ9C5G4BU.

WCA’s EMD hosting local cuisine night

The Evening Membership Division of the Woman’s Club of Arlington hosts a community cuisine night featuring food from local restaurants March 29 at 6 p.m. at the Henrietta Benstead, 60 Columbia Ave., Kearny. Anthony Duke Claus will provide entertainment. The cost is $40 per person. For more details or to reserve a spot, call Debbie at (201) 970-2435 or Kathy at (201) 341-5145.

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.

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 $kearnyprojectgrad on Cashapp or @ Kearny-ProjectGrad on Venmo.

$589,923 Renovated - Raised Ranch -

Bdrms, 2.5 Baths, Lr, Dr, Kitchen, Central Air, attached garage and driveway parking, water view, dock with multiple slips for all your water sport needs.

NEW LISTING!

RENTAL!

-Rami Alrabaa