UNDER THE COVER
Arlington Tax & Bookkeeping celebrates 40th year in Kearny Page 2
NEW CHIEF IN TOWN DEPUTY
Carrino is first to hold position since 2020; Auteri & Haggerty also promoted
Kevin A. Canessa Jr. photos In the top photo, from left, are Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr., Deputy Chief Michael Carrino and Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso. In the bottom photo are, from left, Jarvis, Capts. Vincent Auteri & Paul Haggerty and Giangeruso. Carrino was promoted Jan. 24 while Auteri and Haggerty were promoted Jan. 30 — all in Town Hall ceremonies.
IBy Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
t’s been a busy week-long period for the Lyndhurst Police Department as a new deputy chief took office as did two captains. On Jan. 24, Capt. Michael Carrino ascended to deputy chief and on Jan. 30, Lts. Vincent Auteri and Paul Haggerty ascended to captain.
With Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr., on hand, as well as numerous elected officials, police officers and other first responders, Mayor and Public Safety Commissioner Robert B. Giangeruso administered the oath to the three men heading to new ranks.
Deputy Chief Carrino had been serving as the commander of the Patrol and Traffic Divisions. As the department’s second-in-command, he will now be responsible for overseeing various operational and administrative functions. He
WBy Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
e’re just a few weeks away from the 2025 United Irish Associations of West Hudson’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade and so there’s no better time to introduce you to the parade’s three marshals than right now. (We thank JR O’Donnell, Marybeth Kennedy, Melanie Ryan and Michael Mara for their guidance.)
becomes the first departmental deputy chief since May 2020.
Capt. Auteri had been serving as the supervisor of the Criminal Investigations Division, where he will continue and now assume command responsibilities. Capt. Haggerty, who had previously been assigned as a patrol squad supervisor, will now assume command duties of the Patrol and Traffic divisions.
“I am proud to announce the promotions of these dedicated officers. Their commitment to serving our community and upholding the values of our department has earned them this well-deserved recognition,” Jarvis said. “As they take on their new roles and responsibilities, I know that they will continue to lead by example and inspire others with their professionalism and integrity.”
Giangeruso, himself a retired Lyndhurst superior police offi-
Page 6
Grand Marshal Mark Wiggins Mark Wiggins was born Dec. 18, 1964, in Kearny, to Charles and Margaret
(nee Radford). His father was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and the Superintendent of Public Works for the Town of Kearny. His paternal grandpar-
ents, Charles and Catherine, were also well-known members of the Kearny community.
Wiggins
Mara (Photos by Barbara B. Goldberg) Bocchino
See PARADE, Page 4
Antonelli, Arlington Tax mark 40th year in Kearny
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
It’s next to impossible to believe it’s been 40 years since Bernadette Belfiore Antonelli opened her business Arlington Tax. But as the 2025 tax season gets into full swing, it’s a reality — and the business
continues to be as strong as it was back in 1985 when Bernadette and her late mom, Alice, opened the doors for the very first time.
Last week, Antonelli sat down with The Observer to discuss the business and how it’s grown — exponentially in many ways. We were joined by her daughter
and business partner, Brianna Crockett, who has been full-time here for the last decade, following in her mom’s footsteps.
We started by asking Antonelli how she decided to open her own business and it brought her back to her time working for someone else.
“I was working for another
accountant. I was a single parent at the time, and it was suggested to me by one of the clients that I handled for that accountant that I should go out on my own,” Antonelli said. “So, I said, ‘maybe I’ll do some tax work on the side.’ And he said, ‘you know, you should do it all the way or don’t do it at all.’
tants just to get the rent paid. And every year it just got better and better, mostly through word of mouth. And then in 1996, we bought this building.”
So he helped me, set up an office on Kearny Avenue right next to Lincoln School, and I got a loan from the bank because I didn’t have any money to start — just to buy minimal equipment, and we — my mother and I — sat and waited for people to walk through the door.
“And that’s what happened. I did 160 tax returns the first year ... And then I had to go out and do part-time work for other accoun-
That building is at 764 Kearny Ave., and since 1996, thousands of people have walked through those doors especially at tax time. For many of those years, it was Antonelli and her mom who you’d see. But tragically, Alice died in 2014. For so many of those years, Alice greeted every client as they came in. But it was around that very same time we lost Alice that Brianna came on full-time. And since that has happened, it’s opened new, advance doors.
“Brianna has been working
Continued on the next page
Continued from previous page
with me 10 years,” Antonelli said. “She has her master’s degree in taxation, but had been working here since middle school. She has brought a different edge to the business as far as technology. She has a portal now where clients can upload their documents and then she does everything online — electronic signatures and all that — which gives us the capability of telling people they don’t have to mail their documents in. I’ve got clients all over the country now. They move away and they still come back and I’ve often said to them, ‘you know, I really won’t be offended if you go someplace local.’ They say ‘no, I wouldn’t dream of it.’”
That was all especially helpful during the pandemic when it first began in 2020. While clients couldn’t visit the office, Antonelli and Crockett were both able to continuing doing their thing without visitors. Some continue along that route today.
And all these years later, what started out with one person doing taxes for just under 200 people has ballooned into two people handling taxes for 2,000 or so clients. What that means, too, is that all new clients are immediately assigned to Brianna’s care, while Bernadette continues to work with her long-time regulars.
It’s all worked out perfectly for the mother-daughter duo who continue to show why they’re the best in the business.
Yet another reason why Arling-
ton Tax has been so successful is because both are enrolled agents with the IRS. Since the industry is not regulated, any Joe Blow off the street can offer to do your taxes — even if they’re not all that qualified to do so. So it is very important to remember this — even if you choose to do your taxes with someone who is not enrolled, chances are you may still need Bernadette and Brianna once mistakes are made by amateurs.
Now, last but hardly least, it’s not just Bernadette and Brianna who you’ll see at the office. They’ve both got a tremendous support staff of employees who do everything from answering the telephones to filing paperwork to welcoming visitors.
In all, it’s pretty evident why this place has lasted for 40 years — and why Bernadette says she’ll continue to work for years to come.
“I’ll be here until I am physically unable,” she said.
And we’d bet Brianna will one day say the same.
And it’s also why though not much in life is certain, this is — Arlington Tax will continue to thrive for many decades to come.
Arlington Tax, at 764 Kearny Ave., Kearny, just off the corner of Stuyvesant Avenue, is open six days a week during Tax Season (closed Sundays.) They’re open Tuesday through Thursday off-peak.
Visit them online at www.arlingtontax.com or call the office at (201) 991-8888.
The firm continues to accept new clients.
Take Out • DELIVERY • Catering
PARADE
area in 1995 and has served as a eucharistic minister for many years.
Continued from Page 1
He attended both Lincoln and Roosevelt schools and graduated in 1982 from Seton Hall Preparatory School.
In 2015, he served as the Toastmaster of the Friends of Erin 53rd Annual DinnerDance.
In 2016, Mark was proud to receive the Citizen of the Year Award from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1302.
begin on Friday, February 14,
Each class meets for 12 weeks. This a great option for students who cannot commit to a 15-week term or motivated learners who prefer a fast-paced format.
VIEW COURSES OFFERINGS AT: https://www.hccc.edu/catalog/current/courses/index.html
https://www.hccc.edu/admissions/register-for-classes.html
For more information contact: admissions@hccc.edu or text (201) 509-4222 or call (201) 714-7200
Wiggins received his associate degree from St. Peter’s College in Jersey City and graduated from Mortuary School at Mercer County Community College in 1987. He has been married to Noreen (nee Russell) for over 37 years.
He has been the owner/ director of the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home on Belgrove Drive since 1996 where he started his career at the age of 18. Wiggins says he is most proud of his three children — Conor, Madison and Chloe — and is absolutely over the moon in love with his granddaughter, Charlotte, 2, and can’t wait for the new baby on the way.
Wiggins’s involvement in the community has been extensive over the years.
As a young man, he was an extremely active member and Youth President of Operation Friendship, a local program that facilitated international summer exchange visits between Kearny, Ireland, Scotland and other European destinations.
He served as a commissioner of the Civil Rights Committee of Kearny and Commissioner of the Kearny Board of Health. He was president of both the Optimist Club of Kearny and the West Hudson/South Bergen Optimist Club. He also served as president of the West Hudson/South Bergen Chamber of Commerce.
Mark and Noreen are founding members of the Friends of the Kearny NJ Free Public Library and volunteered for years as part of the Pre-Cana team at Queen of Peace Church. Wiggins was recognized by the Archdiocese of Newark for his outstanding service to the Catholic Cemeteries at the Cathedral-Basilica of the Sacred Heart, he served on the committee that organized Pope John Paul II’s visit to our
More important than all of his involvement in various community organizations, is Mark’s special relationship with the people of Kearny in their time of need. There are so very many families in Kearny who can attest to his genuine and caring nature and his special talent of helping grieving families through difficult times.
Deputy Grand Marshal Donna Bocchino
Donna Bocchino was born Sept. 16, 1967, at West Hudson Hospital in Kearny.
Raised in North Arlington with her two sisters, she attended Queen of Peace grammar and high schools graduating in 1985. She went on to marry and have four children and moved to Kearny in 1995. She immediately became involved in the community by volunteering her time with her children’s sports. She became one of the Kearny Generals cheerleading advisers and held a seat on the Eboard for several years. She spent many Sundays setting up the field for home games and riding the bus to away games as a chaperone.
Many people will remember her selling 50/50s before each home game and guilting people into buying an arm’s length.
She helped immensely with the Kearny recreation wrestling team by getting Lincoln School ready each Saturday morning during the season to host many wrestling teams. She made sure the concession stand was stocked and had plenty of parent volunteers to help and she also became pretty good at setting up the matches for the day, being the announcer and keeping everything moving and
Continued on the next page
Continued from previous page
organized.
During baseball/softball season, you would find her watching games either at multiple fields or in one of the concession stands at the Gunell Oval. She was always prepared with orange wedges for the kids to keep them hydrated.
As her children moved on to high school, she became the Kearny Kardinals Booster Club president and Kardinals Wrestling Booster Club vice president. Again, her focus was on making sure the athletes had everything they needed, making sure each event ran smoothly and that each athlete enjoyed their experience.
She has planned numerous fundraisers that benefited the athletes in Kearny as well as residents who were in need. Bus trips, dances and canning to name a few.
Donna spent 13 years in Kearny and loved every minute of it. The Football Booster Club honored her as the Kearny Kardinal of the Year in 2003, which she says was a very
humbling experience.
Sadly, her personal life changed in 2008 and she ultimately had to return to her birth town. She continued to help with whatever anyone asked of her in Kearny although she was no longer a Kearny resident. That did not matter to her. She was still committed to the people and youth of Kearny.
Eventually it was time to pass the torch to the younger generation of parents and she decided to offer her time and compassion to her new community, North Arlington. She ran for the one-year unexpired term of councilmember in 2019 and won.
She then ran for election the following year for a full, three-year term in 2020 and won by a landslide. She has served as liaison to the Library Board, Health Department and is currently the liaison for the NA Recreation Committee, and Planning Board and Zoning boards.
She is up for re-election this November in what is so far an
uncontested election.
Honoring our military is very important to Donna, so she brought the Military Veterans Banner Program to Ridge Road — a program that has been taken on other towns, following her lead.
hands on with “Crafting with the Council,” “Meet the Easter Bunny” and the now annual “Pumpkin Patch and Parade” to name a few.
led to her success as a public servant in North Arlington and is a very important and fond memory in her life.
Donna worked part time for Dr. Joseph Maggio of Kearny while her children were attending school and then became a full-time employee for the NJ Sports and Exposition Authority (formerly NJ Meadowlands Commission) in 2005. She is coming up on her 19th anniversary as the plan review administrator in the Plan Review Department.
She loves her job and says she gets to meet so many interesting people each day.
Advertising: Here is the updated template with a new photo
She has gotten calls from Carlstadt, East Rutherford and Kearny asking for information on how to get started. Many of which have already implemented their own programs.
During the height of COVID, she and her fellow councilmembers came up with safe and enjoyable ways to engage with the community so they would not feel as if all was lost. She collaborated and was
She says she and her fellow councilmembers work hard every day to come up with ideas to lessen the burden of taxes on the residents of North Arlington and to ensure that they receive the best services. Her experience in Kearny has
Donna is the grandmother of four boys and two girls and they are the light and joy in her life.
Continued on the next page
Let’s Talk
Real Estate
WHAT
MAKES A GOOD OFFER?
Home sellers love cash offers because they are more secure and usually close sooner than a financed offer. If you don’t have cash for your home purchase, how can you compete with cash buyers? First, make a “clean” offer that doesn’t create complications for the seller: make a non-contingent offer, don’t ask for seller concessions like closing costs, and don’t request any personal property items to be included in the sale. A good offer includes a strong earnest money deposit and down payment (above the minimum amount required), which show the seller that you’re motivated and financially stable. Above all, money talks, so consider an offer above the
asking price if there are multiple offers on the property.
Throughout the process of dealing with the many complicated and sometimes confusing factors that need attention during the sale and purchase of a house, buyers and sellers are both looking for the same thing – a successful transaction that makes each a winner. Whether you are buying or selling, we are the professionals you’ll want for the job. We would love to add you to our ever-growing list of successful house buyers and sellers. Join the many who have moved in, moved out, and moved on with our agency by their side. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”
of Jarlynn Hyde:
Presented by Jarlynn Hyde Broker/Owner
Bocchino, Wiggins and Mara
Continued from previous page
Deputy Grand Marshal Michael Mara
Michael Mara was born into an Irish-American family in 1980, the fourth child of Tom and Helen Mara. After attending St. Stephen’s School, he graduated from St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City in 1998. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Fordham University in 2002. While at Fordham, he spent a semester studying abroad at the American College in Dublin, Ireland. This time spent in Ireland highlighted his love of Irish music, culture and history. Throughout his life, Mara participated in youth soccer as a player, coach and administrator in the Kearny Thistle soccer program and the Kearny Youth Soccer Recreation program. He has continued with Thistle serving as the executive director in charge of soccer operations. During his tenure, Thistle has grown to 32 boys and girls teams from age 6 through
adult. He also proudly coached the Kearny High School Boys freshman team for several years and remains a volunteer on staff.
Mara says his passion for soccer includes supporting the famous Glasgow Celtic FC and the Republic of Ireland’s National Team. He enjoyed following these teams by traveling to games in Dublin, Glasgow, Seattle, Philadelphia, and other great cities with his family.
Mara married Kristen Carey Mara in July 2008. Kristen is also part of an Irish-American family and is a teacher in the Kearny school system. They currently reside in Kearny with their two sons, James and Brendan. Both sons inherited the family love for soccer. After a successful career in finance in sales and trading roles, Mara opted to make a career change. He purchased a soccer franchise and opened a soccer specialty retail store called Soccer Post Kearny, located on Kearny Avenue.
From left, Jarvis, Auteri, Haggerty, Tanelli and Giangeruso.
LPD
Continued from Page 1
cer, said: “These three officers have served the police department in various capacities, and their new responsibilities will allow them to guide the department in different areas while continuing to advance our community. I congratulate all three and look forward to their contributions moving forward.
“It is an honor to stand here today, as your mayor and as police commissioner to celebrate a positive moment in our police department and community … this achievement is a testament to
KEARNY HOMETOWN HEROES
The Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (KUEZ) the Mayor and Council of Kearny, American Legion Post 99, WFW Post #1302 - Wilson Gugelman, and West Hudson Marine Corp League are pleased to announce that applications for the Kearny Hometown Heroes Banner program reopen on Monday, February 10.
Pick up a printed application at Kearny Town Hall, the KUEZ office (Town Hall Annex), or any of the UVO Houses along Belgrove Drive. Print application from www.kearnynj.org. Fill out a digital application by visiting https://tinyurl.com/HometownHeroesForm or by scanning the QR code below.
Applications close March 24. Banners will be on display throughout town from Memorial Day through Veterans Day. If you already have purchased a banner, there is no need to submit a new application.
For more information call 201-267-1409 or email KUEZ.NJ@gmail.com
years of dedicated service, unwavering integrity and deep commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our community.”
Lastly, but certainly not least, Bergen County Commissioner Steve Tanelli addressed those assembled Jan. 30 and spoke of all the newly promoted.
“I’m here representing the county and I am honored to be here,” Tanelli, of North Arlington, said. “Today shows you what hard work and dedication can get you. …these guys have grown up here and have kept the streets safe. Being from here, I see them all the time and the hard work they put in. They all really care about this community and this is what you want to see.”
SPORTS & HEALTH
SIXTH STRAIGHT TITLE FOR NUTLEY BOWLERS
positive results.
TBy Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
he names taking the lanes may change from year to year. But it was a familiar site at the end of the recent Essex County Team Bowling Championships - the girls from Nutley collecting their plaques as county champs.
For the fourth year in a row, the Maroon Raiders were crowned Essex County champions, rolling a team score of 2,079 on Jan. 21 at Bowlero in Belleville.
It is the sixth consecutive title overall for Nutley as there was no championship held in 2021 due to COVID.
To head coach Frank Sasso the streak is in many ways a testament to past success encouraging girls to give bowling a try with
“Part of it is success breeds success so other girls want to be a part of it,” said Sasso. “And one girl can’t win a tournament alone so you get friends (to join) or people are like ‘oh, I heard the bowling team’s doing good, can I try out?’ One of our starters (Camila Padilla) is a freshman who never bowled before and she’s doing very, very well.
Another girl (Serena Ilog), this is her second year and she’s really putting up some solid numbers.”
Both Ilog (383 series) and Padilla (297 series) have been a part of Nutley’s five-bowler lineup all season.
But leading the way during the Championships was a four-year mainstay in the Raiders’ lineup, Gabriella Botti.
Botti, who has emerged as Nutley’s top bowler this season
had arguably the best performance of her high school career on this day as she rolled the individual high game (222) and the individual high series (562) of the Championships.
“It definitely was one of her best for sure,” Sasso said. “She’s a competitor, but yet she has a good demeanor during the game. You don’t see too much emotion. She just goes up there and does her job.”
Few have done their job better than Botti, who’s 167.79 average is third in Essex County as of Jan. 28 and an improvement of more than 34 pins from a year ago.
“Last year she struggled with the style she was using and it was hard for her to adjust. You could see she was frustrated,” said Sasso. “We chatted about making a different style of bowl-
ing, a more traditional approach. She worked on it, she practiced all summer, she got a little bit outside coaching and she came into the season ready to go with a lot of confidence.
“Everybody said ‘you’re going to lose your best bowler (2024 Essex County Individual Champion Gabriella Lucivero), it’s going to impact your team.’ I said somebody’s got to take her spot and Gabriella Botti wanted to be that person and she did,” Sasso said. “Then everyone else moved up a little bit. Everybody picked up the pieces and said, we could be just as good of a team.”
Like they have all season long, juniors Brooklynn Robinson and Karen Fukuoka-Schreiber have slotted behind Botti in the lineup and performed well. Robinson’s 427 series was seventh in the Championships and Fuku-
oka-Schreiber’s 209 series was tied for ninth.
For Robinson and Fukuoka-Schreiber, it was their third Essex County championship.
Overall, Bloomfield took second place with a score of 2,025, followed by Belleville with 1,875.
On the boys side, Nutley was narrowly edged out by West Orange for the team title by a 2,775 to 2,758 margin. Bloomfield finished fourth with 2,707 and Belleville was sixth at 2,459.
Nutley’s Jackson Cerniglia-Rapavi had the individual high game with 274. Belleville’s Ayden Carrero has the individual high series with 271 with Cerniglia-Rapavi taking second with a 658.
Nutley’s Jackson Veneziano was ninth with a 601 series and Jayden Padilla of Bloomfield was 10th with a 591 series.
Photo courtesy of Frank Sasso.
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
It would have been easy for the Nutley girls basketball team to
chalk this season up as a lost year when its leading scorer, Isabel Riccardi, suffered a season-ending knee injury a month ago. And while this underclass-
men-heavy lineup has had its fair share of growing pains since, the Maroon Raiders have remained largely competitive, while showing more than a few glimpses of a
TOWN OF KEARNY PUBLIC NOTICE
2025 OFF-STREET PERMIT PARKING FOR OVERNIGHT USE ON SANDFORD AVENUE
The Clerk’s Office will hold a lottery to distribute 2025 parking permits for off-street parking adjacent to Sandford Avenue, north of Harrison Avenue. There are twenty-one (21) spaces allocated for overnight parking from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Commercial vehicles are not permitted.
2025 Overnight Parking Permit Rate Passenger Vehicles - $125.00
Lottery entry forms are available at Town Hall or can be downloaded from the town’s website www.kearnynj.org. Completed entry forms may be dropped into the entry box located at the entrance to the Clerk’s Office at Town Hall or mailed to: Clerk’s Office, Town of Kearny, 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032 Mailed entries must be postmarked no later than Friday, March 14, 2025. Entries received after March 14th forfeit the right to be included in the drawing.
The lottery drawing for overnight parking spaces will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 10:00 a.m via a “ZOOM” Webinar. Please visit https://zoom.us/download to download the app onto a computer or mobile device and use the following Webinar ID: 83200855583. Alternatively, you can also select the following link and view the Webinar via Video Conference: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83200855583. Applicants need not be present for the drawing.
For more information, call (201) 283-5601 or visit www.kearnynj.org
PATRICIA CARPENTER TOWN CLERK
much brighter future. This past week’s Essex County Tournament run was just the latest example of that. On Thursday, Nutley, seeded 14th, outlasted
19th-seeded Science Park in a double-overtime thriller, 57-52. And while the Raiders’s ECT run
See NUTLEY, Page 11
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited diseases that affect the retina. The genetic mutations that cause RP prevent the retina’s photoreceptor cells and pigment epithelium cells from working together properly. Visual changes vary depending on the person and type of RP, but most people with RP have low vision. Vision loss usually begins in childhood and comes on slowly. For some people, vision loss stops at some point, but in others it leads to blindness. There are many gene mutations that lead to RP. Genetic testing may be able to isolate the exact mutation causing the disease. This can provide insight into how the disease may progress for that individual and how other family
PIGMENTOSA?
members may be affected. Eye doctors can check for RP as part of a comprehensive dilated eye exam. The exam is simple and painless — the doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate your pupil and then check your eyes for RP and other eye problems. The exam includes a visual field test to check peripheral vision. To schedule an exam, please call 201-896-0096. Our office is located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance. P.S. Retinitis pigmentosa is the most common inherited eye disease. Genetic testing can help people qualify for gene therapy or participation in clinical trials.
Photo by Chris Heintze
Top row L-R: Chris Heintze, Grace Christie, Gianna Albanese, Isabel Riccardi, Kaitlyn Nellegar, Jiana Maldonado, Coach Ava Mandala Bottom row L-R: Makayla Albert, Madison Heal, Mariah Franqui, Cassey Arroyo, Sophia DeLanzo, Ellie Oldak.
Arthur C. ‘Lefty’ VanHorn
Arthur C. “Lefty” VanHorn, 83, died Monday, Jan. 27, 2025.
Born in Jersey City, he lived in Kearny for over 30 years before moving to Manchester 15 years ago.
OBITUARIES
Before retiring, he was a member of the Teamsters Union for over 40 years. His last employment was as a shop steward and truck driver for Tropicana in Kearny. He was a member of the
North Arlington Elks Lodge No. 1992 for over 40 years. Arthur was the beloved husband of Linda (nee Yutko); the devoted father of Arthur and his wife Christine, and Nicholas; the cherished grandfather
of Joseph, Erin and Emily; the doting great-grandfather of five; and the dear brother of George Hanna and his wife Barbara, and the late Helene Poulos.
All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
The family would appreciate donations made in Arthur’s memory to the charity of your choice.
Funeral Services were handled under the direction of the Parow Funeral Home, 185 Ridge Road, North Arlington.
Advice for seniors: 7 criteria for choosing the right winter coat
Are you looking for a new coat to keep you warm this winter? Assess your needs by paying attention to these seven points.
1. Length. Look for a long coat that covers your buttocks and thighs, especially if you do a lot of walking. However, ensure it doesn’t restrict your movement.
2. Insulation. Lightweight down holds in as much heat as possible and is a winning choice if you’re always cold. However, synthetic materials are preferable if you participate in winter sports, as they breathe better and retain their properties even when wet.
3. Closures. Keep an eye out for high-quality zippers. If you have grip problems, make sure the zippers and buttons are easy to handle.
4. Hood. Look for a hood with drawstrings so that it stays in place. A fur trim is excellent in snowy conditions.
Miracle Prayer
Dear Sacred Heart Of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favors, this time I ask you this special one favor. Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it in your own broken heart where our Father sees it, then in his merciful eyes it will become your favor, not mine.
V.L.
5. Collar. No matter the style, it must protect your neck.
6. Sleeves. Sleeves that can be tightened at the wrist with an elastic band help shield you against cold winds.
7. Pockets. Make sure the pockets are sturdy and big enough to keep your hands warm or hold your keys and phone. Happy shopping!
Novena to St. Jude
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Please grant my request. Say this prayer 9 times a day. By the 9th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you Saint Jude.
Novena to St. Claire
Ask St. Claire for 3 favors. 1 business 2 impossible. Say 9 Hail Mary’s for 9 days with a lighted candle. Pray whether you believe it or not. Publish on 9th day. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glorified & loved today and every day throughout the world Forever and Ever. Amen. Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem.
E.P.
Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221
Jr.
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.
Lyndhurst’s Chaname shines in leading role
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Following the graduation of the top four scorers from last season, including career points leader Anthony Pizzuti, Lyndhurst’s Johnny Chaname knew this winter was going to require him to transform from a spark off the bench, to a lead guard
It was a change that Chaname admitted put some pressure upon the junior’s shoulders.
“It was definitely a little bit of pressure because I knew I had to take up a big part of what our big seniors did last year,” said Chaname, who averaged 5.0 points per game last season as a sophomore.
“Coming into the season, I just tried to play my game and I felt the pressure a little bit. But then, as soon as the season started flowing, I definitely didn’t feel as much pressure as I did in the beginning of the season.”
Instead that pressure has been
shifted upon the opposing defense who have been asked to try to slow down the Chaname and the Golden Bears’ high-powered offense.
On January 23, Chaname scored a career-high 31 points to go with seven rebounds, six steals and five assists to give Lyndhurst a big NJIC National Division win at Secaucus. Four days later, against Harrison, Chaname recorded his first career double-double when he went off for 30 points, 10 assists and five rebounds.
This past Thursday, Chaname had 22 points and six assists as the Bears rallied from a seven-point halftime deficit to beat Ridgefield Park in the first round of the Bergen Invitational Tournament.
Chaname’s offensive outburst makes him The Observer Athlete of the Week.
an 0-4 record, Lyndhurst has won 11 of its last 16 games with Chaname averaging 22.1 points per game during that run. For the season, he’s averaging 20.0 points and 4.6 assists per contest.
ability,” said Perrin Mosca. “He showed some flashes of it last year, but he really couldn’t get a chance last year with all the guys we had.
“He’s taking the opportunities and he’s going with it.”
“Sometimes, when I feel hot and the game’s just coming to me and I just feel like it’s going to be one of those types of games, I don’t really focus on the points that I score,”
points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists per game) and Filoteo Mosca (11.5 points,4.5 rebounds per game) have thrived within a revamped offensive system that relies more tempo and This past Thursday, Chaname
the 5-foot-9 Chaname said. “Sometimes my coaches on the sideline tell me how many points I have and I laugh because I don’t expect myself to score that much.”
“He’s been able to control the offense, run the offense,” head coach Perrin Mosca said. “We’ve been going up and down the court. We preached in the preseason that we got to run the floor and he just embraced it.”
Since starting out the year with
Despite heavy losses to graduation, the “Big 3” of Chaname and freshmen Avery Cano (14.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists per game) and Filoteo Mosca (11.5 points,4.5 rebounds per game) have thrived within a revamped offensive system that relies more tempo and quickness.
“I would definitely describe (my game) as fast paced,” said Chaname. “I like to get to my shots, I like to get to the free throw line. Shooting threes is a big aspect of my game as well as attacking the rim and finding my teammates as well. I love assisting them, especially in the open court.”
“I didn’t expect him to put up those numbers like he’s been doing (lately), but I knew he had the
With 6-foot-4 point guard Matt Slaby running the point along with other veteran guards in CJ Baillie and Jake Mayer, Chaname was rarely asked to initiate offense last season.
Rather than lament the lack of shots, Chaname embraced the lessons he learned from the seniors..
“Those seniors last year definitely helped me a lot,” Chaname said. “They talked about how they don’t get nervous during the game and what helped them and made them play better. Watching that from the sidelines helped.me a lot.” Those lessons have helped turn what was supposed to be a rebuilding year for the Bears into one where they are primed to be a dangerous double-digit seed in the state tournament.
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
NUTLEY
Continued from Page 8
ended two days later with a 57-34 loss at a Glen Ridge team currently ranked No. 18 in the state by NJ.com, head coach Tara McNish-Natoli was happy with her team’s performance against one of the state’s best.
“They’re getting a lot of really good experience,” McNish-Natoli said of a starting lineup that now features two freshmen and a sophomore. “Getting that win in double-overtime was a big morale boost and it turned the page on a really bad performance on Tuesday against Caldwelll.
“Then, we actually played really well against Glen Ridge, it’s encouraging, especially with having such a young roster. It helps us moving forward.”
One underclassmen who has
particularly blossomed in recent weeks is sophomore forward Kaitlyn Nellegar. Despite standing only 5-foot-8, Nellegar has emerged as one of Essex County’s better young bigs, posting five-straight double-doubles in January.
For the season, Nellegar is averaging 10.4 points and 13.9 rebounds per game, both team highs. Nellegar’s recent play has led to her receiving some double-teams from opposing defenses.
“She’s stepped it up so much and while she’s only about 5-foot8, she plays like she’s 6-foot-3,” said McNish-Natoli, herself a former college forward at Mount Saint Vincent. “The way she rebounds and goes after every ball, it’s all you can ask for as a coach. You can’t teach that kind of grit.”
The other player most impacted by Riccardi’s injury was freshman Gianna Albanese, who has moved into the starting lineup.
Premier Car e TALK S
LACTOSE INTOLERANCE
Lactose intolerance is a digestive disorder characterized by the body’s inability to fully digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This condition arises due to a lactase deficiency, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose in the small intestine. When lactose remains undigested, it can ferment in the colon, leading to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea, and nausea within 30 minutes after consumption. While lactose intolerance is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and dietary choices. The severity of symptoms varies, with some tolerating small amounts of lactose while others must strictly avoid dairy products. Management involves avoid-
ing lactose-containing foods or using lactase supplements to aid digestion.
Make an appointment with your doctor if you frequently have symptoms of lactose intolerance after eating dairy foods, particularly if you’re worried about getting enough calcium. There are also a variety of lactose-free dairy products at the supermarket. To schedule an appointment, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-9987474, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B.
P.S. Diagnosis of lactose intolerance is typically made through dietary changes and symptom monitoring, sometimes supplemented by lactose tolerance tests or hydrogen breath tests.
Email any questions or comments to: premiercare@gmail.com
or
Albanese, also 5-foot-8, has the versatility to play on the perimeter, but has found a home in the post. She is now averaging 6.3 points and 10.1 rebounds per game.
Despite being underclassmen, both Nellegar and Albanese have a clear chemistry together and have turned the paint into the strength for the Raiders. The duo combined for 39 points, 30 rebounds and 10 assists in the win over Science Park and 20 points with 15 rebounds against Glen Ridge.
“You would think they’ve played together for a while because they play very well together,” McNish-Natoli said. “They see each other really well and they both have a very high basketball iq.
“They’ve been our offensive spark, which is new for me and Nutley. We’ve always had guards only.”
Senior shooting guard Grace Christie has been a four-year rotation player in the backcourt and is averaging 7.7 points per game while leading the team in 3-pointers (34) and assists (57).
At point guard is Cassey Arroyo, who provided a much needed boost to the backcourt after missing last season.
Freshman Jiana Maldonado is the third guard and has, at times, flashed immense offensive potential, averaging 7.7 points per game with 13 3-pointers made.
Nutley’s youth goes beyond the starting lineup as freshmen guards Ellie Oldak and Madison Heal are the first two off the bench and have both shown to be among the team’s top defensive players right away.
“Make your vision picture perfect... See what you’ve been missing. Visit our office!”
All four freshmen played together on the court for stretches against Glen Ridge and held their own.
Junior Makayla Albert is Nutley’s top reserve at forward. Freshman Sophia DeLanzo and junior Mariah Franqui have also been a source of key minutes off the bench.
Despite being just 8-10, the goal of a home state playoff game is still within reach for this young group as it currently sits ninth in the power point standings for North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3. That goal starts with a game against Passaic Tech that is scheduled for Feb. 3, followed by a home matchup with Payne Tech on Thursday. After that are a trio of road games with Indian Hills, West Essex and Newark Central.
Dr. Prakash
J. Doshi
Dr. Hector Aguilar
BELLEVILLE 2 bedroom apartment near light rail, and walking distance from shopping center and supermarket. Great for a couple with 1 child. $1800/ Month Heat and hot water included. Month and half security deposit and first month’s rent required. (862)-2908550 39W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
HARRISON 3 BRs, 1 Bath, Large EIK, No Pets/Smoking, 1.5 Months security, Utilities not included Available Now (973)7142368 or (201)463-6303 40W03
HARRISON Newly renovated 1 BR, Walking distance to PATH, No Pets/Smoking, $1400 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate Available February 1st (862)215-6880 38W03
HARRISON 2nd floor, 2 bedrooms, bath, LR, kitchen, Attic space, balcony. Separate utilities. Security. Available Now. (201) 803-9148 39W03
HARRISON Sussex St. 2 BR w/large closets, Large LR, DR w/extra closet space, Kitchen, Bath. Close to PATH. No pets/Smoking. Avl. Now. Se habla español (201) 719-0714 29W03
HARRISON 1 BR, Kitchen, LR & Bath No Pets/ Smoking 1.5 Months security, Utilities not included Available Now (973)714-2368 or (201)463-6303 40W03
KEARNY 2 bedroom 1 ½ bath in nice location, $1,900.00 per month, 1 ½ month security. No pets, no smoking. Please call Joanne (973)699-3146 38W03
KEARNY 3 BR’s, EIK. $2300 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No pets/Smoking Available Now (201)7729965 39W03
KEARNY Newly Remodeled 2 BR’S, LR, Kitchen $1450 + 1.5 months security. utilities separate. No pets. Available Now. Dukes St. Front of Hudson Park (973)391- 3868 40W03
KEARNY
Recently renovated 2 BR First floor apartment. LR, DR, EIK. Washer/dry hook up. No Pets/Smoking. Credit report. $2100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Near Transportation. Available Now (973)838-1662 38W06
KEARNY Stewart Ave, 1st. Floor, Spacious LR, Eat-In-Kitchen, 3 Bedrooms, Bath, Offstreet Parking, Storage, Backyard, No Pets, No Smoking, $2150 + Utilities, Security, 908771-0762, NO TEXT MESSAGES 38W03
KEARNY 3rd floor in a quit family oriented home. LR, BR, Bath, kitchenette, “Micro & Refrigerator No stove”. Utilities included no pets/smoking $1200 + 1.5 months security (973)668-8305 39W03
KEARNY Newly renovated 2nd floor,2 BR, LR. kitchen, $2100 + 1.5 months security. utilities separate. Parking included. Washer/ dryer hook-up. Couple preferred. Share basement. No Pets/smoking Available March 1st (908)337-8472 40W03
KEARNY 1st floor 2
BR’s, Kitchen, DR & LR, $2000 + 1.5 months security Utilities not included Laundry hookup in basement No Pets/Smoking, Street parking Available April 1st (973)670-5726 40W03
KEARNY 6 family home, 3rd fl. 2 BR, $1,600 + 1 1/2 months security. Utilities separate. No pets. No Smoking Avl. Now (201) 9169460 40W03
KEARNY 1st floor. Large 2 BR, LR, EIK. $2000 + 1 1/2 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking No Laundry Avl. March. 1st. (201) 696-0496 40W03
KEARNY Newly renovated 1st floor Spacious
3 BR apt. Bath, EIK, LR, DR, laundry hook-up, storage, $2,500 month + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate Easy access to transportation into Jersey City or Manhattan via bus or train. Available Now (732)688-7756 40W03
KEARNY
1 BR. Apt. Bldg. Arlington Sect. Newly Renovated. Laundry on Premises. HT/HW included. Near Transportation. No pets. $1450 + 1.5 months security. (201) 998-4972 Available Now 40W03
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.$1875.00 per month, one month security. Heat and hot water provided. Laundry on premises Storage in basement. No smoking and no pets. Adults preferred. Available 03/01/2025 Please call between 10:00am and 7:00pm: 201-997-2341 40W03
KEARNY Vacancy in quiet house, for 1 person To rent a large room with your own sink & refrigerator. utilities included. Close to public transportation. Street parking available. Positively no smoking/ pets. Gentlemen preferred. Good credit rating. 4 weeks security required. $175 weekly. Call or text Pamela (973) 830-7498 39W03
Franklin School announces January Students of the Month
Yvonne Cali, principal of Franklin School in Kearny, announces the January Students of the Month.
LYNDHURST 2nd floor
2 BR’s, LR, Kitchen $2000 + 1 month security H/W included, pay your own electric No Pets/Smoking Available March 1st (973)2944367 40W03
KEARNY Private entrance. Large big room with private bath, Responsible person Utilities included. No Smoking/Pets available Now (973)704-4186 40W03
N.ARLINGTON 1 OR 2 Garages for rent each 22 x 10 1 month security call (973)517-1342 38W03
Verena Saeed, Andre Ormaza Moreira, John Stein, Yusuf Bourquia, Sofia Lopez De Souza, Isabella Santos, Sebastian Gomez Conde, Matthew M Acosta Olaechea, Matangi Jani,Gael DoNascimento, George Rosaly, Anir Chahid, Sebastian Cornejo, Brian Schechter, Aiden Cirelli, Elizabeth Zelaya, Brianna Valente, Melody Fernandez, Camila Mesarina, Vani Sharma, Aaliyah Giraud, Uliana Kupiszewska, Arlyn Pinas, Amaia Soto Rosario, Kaitlyn Solorzano, Nataly Siguenza Gaspar, Antonella Lara Campos, Kai Olivo, Angelina Little, Zarah Acevedo, Arturo Vacacela, Rodrigo Gomez, Mishell Gonzaga, Jayleen Vega, Olivia Pacheco, Aila Dotel, Raquel Cueva and Isaac Kopp.
Off street parking spot available, near 5th & Central Ave Harrsion (973)902-5717 39W03
The Observer’s office is open MondayFriday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please feel free to visit us during our regular hours of operation or call (201) 991-1600.
A&M Merchandising, Inc. Announces Winner of $1,000 Grocery Drawing
A&M Merchandising, Inc - Kirby Vacuums of N. Arlington is thrilled to announce the winner of our $1,000 Grocery Drawing, conducted in partnership with Twin City Supermarket and Anthony’s Shop & Save Supermarket. After an exciting registration period, our event coordinator Vaudette Hurtado, was proud to award the grand prize to Norma Montalvo on 1/27/25.
Norma’s name was selected from hundreds of entries, and she received 2 gift certificates each for $500 to use at Twin City Supermarket and Anthony’s Shop & Save Supermarket, making her next grocery shopping experience even sweeter.
“We are excited to give back to the community and thank everyone who participated in the drawing,” said Adam Len, President at A&M Merchandising, Inc. “Congratulations to Norma Montalvo, and we hope this prize makes her shopping a little easier!” Thank you to everyone who took part in the registration. Stay tuned for future promotions and community giveaways.
For service, supplies and parts for all Kirby Vacuum systems, please call 201-9550001 or visit our location at 346 Belleville Turnpike, N. Arlington NJ. Take advantage of our Total Adjustment Cleanup Special for $159 – bring your Kirby back to its factory shine!
HARRISON
KEARNY
KEARNY
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine seeks
Director, Academic Support (Nutley NJ/in person).
Req: Masters in Educ Psych, Cognitive Psych, Graduate Educ, Med Educ, or ritd w/ specialization in learning & remediation + 5 yrs exp within a med school or ritd. Resumes to recruiter 1@ahmhn.org, ref: DAS/PD. Direct apps only 40W01
PATHWAYS TO INDEPENDENCE, INC.
A Day Program which provides support to adults with disabilities
Employment Classification: Part Time, Regular, 20-25 Hrs. per week.
Job Summary: To provide pick up/delivery of sub contract work to vendors/to perform maintenance duties at Pathways office to include: changing light bulbs; fix leaky faucets/toilets; check boiler/air conditioners, paint rooms/offices; snow removal shovel and salt parking lot/sidewalks; clean/organize office areas/boilers. Pay: $19.00 per hour
Education: Must possess a High School Diploma or equivalent.
Qualifications & Training: Must have a valid NJ driver’s license. CDL license preferred. Experience driving box truck. Experience performing general office maintenance task. Complete Application at 60 Kingsland Ave. Kearny, NJ. Between 8:30AM to 2:30PM 40W03
Compassionate, trustworthy female needed PT to help senior with ADLs. Private two-family home. English speaking only. Johnston and Devon St 201-991-8050 40W03
NAPD preparing to install ‘Safety Sticks’
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The North Arlington Police Department’s Traffic Bureau — along with Police Chief Michael Horton — are preparing for the installation of Safety Sticks at targeted no parking zones and timed parking spots throughout the municipality, in an effort to reduce the number of incidents involving blind corners and unsafe parking.
Safety Sticks are solar-powered camera devices that monitor sections of roadway and capture the license plate information of unlawfully parked vehicles. The devices automatically send reports to the police department, which then decides whether to issue a parking ticket.
“Parking safety is one of those vital quality-of-life issues that need to constantly be addressed,” Horton said. “Yellow street paint and bright orange
TOWN OF KEARNY
BID NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Mayor and Council or its agent(s) of the Town of Kearny, Hudson County, New Jersey, for the Elm Street Roadway Improvements (NJDOT Funded) at the Kearny Town Hall, 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, New Jersey on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 11:30 A.M. Local Prevailing Time.
Drawings, specifications and forms of bids, contract and bond for proposed work, prepared by David Silva, P.E., on behalf of Michael J. Neglia, P.E., P.P., P.L.S., Town Engineer, will be on file at the office of said Engineer, 34 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst, New Jersey, on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. Local Prevailing Time and may be examined at no expense by prospective bidders during business hours.
Bidders, upon request, will be furnished with a copy of the specifications and blueprints by the Engineer upon proper notice and a non-refundable payment cost of $10.00 for a digital thumb drive or $100.00 for a hard copy to cover the cost of reproduction. (Checks made payable to: Neglia Group.) Bids must be made on Standard Proposal Forms in the manner designated herein and required by the Specifications, must be enclosed in sealed envelopes, bearing the name and address of bidder and name of project on the outside addressed to Mayor and Council, Town of Kearny, Hudson County, New Jersey, and must be accompanied by a non-collusion affidavit and a certified check or bid bond for not less than ten (10%) percent of the amount bid, provided said check need not be more than $20,000.00, nor shall not be less than $500.00, and a consent of surety from a surety company authorized to transact business in the State of New Jersey in a sum equal to one hundred (100%) percent of the amount bid. Signatures shall be in ink and longhand. Bids shall be either mailed directly to OR hand delivered directly to Patricia Carpenter, Town Clerk, Town of Kearny, 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, New Jersey 07032. The Standard Proposal Form and the non-collusion affidavit are attached to the Specifications, copies of which will be furnished on application to the Engineer.
Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27, regarding Affirmative Action and Executive Order 11246 regarding Equal Opportunity, and with all provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq. and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference.
traffic cones just aren’t significant enough deterrents for some motorists to
New Jersey Business Registration Requirements: N.J.S.A. 40A:11-23.2 requires all contractors and subcontractors with public contracting agencies to provide proof of registration with the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue. The requirement of proof of business registration extends down through all levels (tiers) of the project. Before final payment on the contract is made by the contracting agency, the contractor shall submit an accurate list and the proof of business registration of each subcontractor or supplier used in the fulfillment of the contract, or shall attest that no subcontractors were used.
For the term of the contract, the contractor and each of its affiliates and a subcontractor and each of its affiliates [N.J.S.A. 52:32-44(g) (3)] shall collect and remit to the Director, New Jersey Division of Taxation, the use tax due pursuant to the Sales and Use Tax Act on all sales of tangible personal property delivered into this State, regardless of whether the tangible personal property is intended for a contract with a contracting agency. The Contractor is required to comply with all rules and regulations and orders promulgated by the State Treasurer pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27, P.L.1975, c 127., regarding Affirmative Action, Executive Order 11246 regarding Equal Employment Opportunity, and Chapter 33, Laws of 1977 regarding disclosure of Partners & Stockholders, and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference, and with all provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq. and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, the provisions of which are incorporated herein by reference. All bidders must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor.
All bids shall be irrevocable, not subject to withdrawal and shall stand available for a period of sixty (60) days. The Town of Kearny reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to waive any informalities in the bidding.
Contractors shall be advised that this project is being funded by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Municipal Aid funds. Federal Prevailing Wage Rates shall prevail in this contract.
Small, Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises are encouraged to obtain specifications and compete for this project.
“By order of the Mayor and Council, Town of Kearny, Hudson County, New Jersey.” Patricia Carpenter, R.M.C. Town Clerk ($56.00)
park where they shouldn’t. I’m pleased we’re taking this important step to help
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 13, 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 LICENSED SEWAGE PLANT OPERATOR AND LICENSED COLLECTION SYSTEM OPERATOR SERVICES FOR HUDSON COUNTY MEADOWVIEW CAMPUS
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). 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 ($25.00)
COUNTY OF HUDSON
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF A CONSUL-
solve this ongoing problem.”
The Safety Sticks will be installed primarily on street corners and in front of commercial properties. They will have a strong, visible presence on Ridge Road, North Arlington’s commercial center.
The primary goal of the Safety Sticks is to curb unsafe parking at intersections which has grown into a danger for pedestrians and drivers alike. This initiative is not designed to bring a profit from unsafe situations, but to send a message that the Borough of North Arlington is serious about pedestrian safety.
The project was approved during the Council meeting on Jan. 16. A vendor will install and maintain the Safety Sticks at no cost to the borough and will then be paid a small percentage of each parking ticket fee as compensation.
The installation date will be announced in the coming weeks.
TANT TO ASSIST THE COUNTY IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND DISTRIBUTION OF AN EDUCATIONAL NEWSLETTER Notice is hereby given that sealed Proposals will be received by the County of Hudson, State of New Jersey, Attention: Purchasing Agent, 567 Pavonia Avenue, 3rd Floor, Jersey City, NJ 07306 on February 21, 2025, no later than 11:00 a.m. prevailing time. At that time and place the following will be publicly opened and read: REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF A CONSULTANT TO ASSIST THE COUNTY IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND DISTRIBUTION OF AN EDUCATIONAL NEWSLETTER Requests for Proposals may be viewed and obtained through the Hudson County Purchasing Department website, http://www.hudsoncountynjprocure.org. Applicants must register on the Purchasing Portal in order to download the Request for Proposals (RFP) and to receive Addenda, if issued. There is no cost to register or download opportunities from the Purchasing Portal. All RFP Addenda will be posted on the Purchasing Portal/Website. Therefore, all interested Respondents should check the Purchasing Portal Website from now through the RFP 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 Proposals (RFP).
Questions are to be submitted in writing via EMAIL by February 7, 2025 by 2:00 p.m. to Christine Moro, Hudson County’s Purchasing Agent, at questions.purchasing@hcnj.us . No further questions will be accepted after this time. Answers and addenda will be made available publicly on February 11, 2025 by end of business.
Sealed proposals are to be received by the County of Hudson, State of New Jersey, Attention: Purchasing Agent, 567 Pavonia Avenue, 3rd Floor, Jersey City, NJ no later than February 21, 2025 no later than 11:00a.m. prevailing time.
One (1) original and one (1) copy of the proposal and one (1) digital copy of the complete proposal, in a sealed box must be hand-delivered (either via courier service, mail, or hand delivered) to the Hudson County Administration Annex, 567 Pavonia Avenue, 3rd Floor, Jersey City, NJ 07306 no later than 11:00a.m on February 21, 2025. Proposals cannot be submitted via fax or email. ABSOLUTELY NO LATE PROPOSALS WILL BE ACCEPTED.
If a respondent wishes to deliver an RFP submission earlier than February 21 at 11:00 a.m., then the submission should be hand delivered
and must be clearly marked on the outside with the title of the RFP submission, and the date and time which it is scheduled to be opened, and the name of the entity submitting the proposal.
Respondents are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C.17:27 et seq.
This proposal is being solicited through “Competitive Contracting” procurement in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:11-4.1 et seq.
The County of Hudson reserves the right, as permitted by law, to reject any and all proposals, to waive any non-material informalities, and to accept a Proposal, which, in its judgment, best serves the interest of the County. No proposals may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the date and time set for the opening of the proposals. ($40.95)
RESOLUTION NO.: 1656-01-2025
RESOLUTION ADOPTING MEETING SCHEDULE FOR 2025
Pursuant to Chapter 23l, Laws of 1975, the following are designated as meetings of the Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the Town of Harrison, N.J. at which Public Housing Agency business may be formally discussed, decided or acted upon. Date & Time Place & Location
Purpose
January 7,
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.
NA Library hosting ‘Godzilla Minus One’ screening
The North Arlington Public Library, 210 Ridge Road, hosts a free screening of “Godzilla Minus One,” Monday, Feb. 10, at 5:30 p.m.
The film tells the story of a nation trying to rebuild after a devastating war, only to face an overwhelming, otherworldly threat. It deals with a man trying to overcome guilt and trauma and a people who, abandoned by their government, band together to fight an enemy who seems invincible. It stars Minami Hamabe and Ryunosuke Kamiki and is rated PG. Popcorn and bottled water will be served.
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
NEWS BRIEFS
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.
Salvation Army of Kearny hosting open gyms with Tom Fraser
The Salvation Army of greater Kearny, 28 Beech St., hosts open gyms Tuesday and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. for kids aged 10 to 17. Games will be under the supervision of the immortal Tom Fraser, retired Lincoln School counselor and coach and long-time director of the Presbyterian Boys & Girls Club. The Observer’s office is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please feel free to visit us during our regular hours of operation or call (201) 991-1600.
-Rami Alrabaa
