Wednesday, 3 February 2021
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Vol. CXXXIII, No. 39
THIS WEEK IN SPORTS Belleville High School boys’ basketball team looks for a solid 2021 season. See Page 9
BELLEVILLE • BLOOMFIELD • EAST NEWARK • HARRISON • KEARNY • LYNDHURST • NORTH ARLINGTON • NUTLEY
BIG CHANGE IN SCRIPTS As ShopRite shuts down pharmacies, Midtown’s ready to take on new customers
By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com
W
ell, if you’re one of those people who likes to pick up your prescriptions after getting your Can-Can deals, things are changing for you if they haven’t already, because 62 ShopRite Pharmacies — including the ones in Kearny, Lyndhurst and Belleville — were to have closed at or around Feb. 2, according to Wakefern, the company that operates the supermarket chains. According to Wakefern, the prescription records of those who get their meds from Shoprite pharmacies were to be automatically sent to a near-by CVS. “All customer prescription files at closing store pharmacies will automatically and
Midtown Pharmacy, Kearny, and Belleville Phramacy, Belleville, are ready to take your ShopRite-based prescriptions. Simply give them a call and they’ll do the rest of the work.
securely transfer to a nearby CVS pharmacy, and we are notifying impacted customers,” Wakefern spokeswoman Karen O’Shea said in a written statement. “The pharmacy industry is highly competitive and we were unable to sustain sufficient sales despite our marketing efforts, which led to the difficult decision to close these store pharmacies.” Richard Tully, the owner of Kearny’s ShopRite, says that while seeing the pharmacy at his store was difficult to see, it may end up being beneficial in the long run. “We’re fortunate that we’ll be able to remerchandise the area,” Tully said. “The decision was corporate-based and I am sure it wasn’t an easy decision to make.” According to reports, pharmacists employed by ShopRite See MIDTOWN, Page 23
Santos displeased with ‘opaque’ vaccine-distribution process By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com
K
earny Mayor Alberto G. Santos (seen in photo to the right) is not happy with the way the COVID-19 vaccine is being distributed — and he says the
Town of Kearny certainly hasn’t gotten its fair share of it. In a social-media post Jan. 26, the mayor illustrated his frustration with a photo taken of a vaccination clinic that had been scheduled at Kearny High School. The photo showed the large room, with vaccine workers — and very
few patients. “A picture is worth a thousand words: this is the Kearny Health Department’s COVID-19 vaccine clinic today at the Kearny High School cafeteria,” Santos wrote. ‘We’ll vaccinate 100 persons See SANTOS, Page 19
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Murphy visits South Kearny vaccine center & yes, he really was here By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com
G
ov. Phil Murphy, U.S. Reps. Albio Sires and Bill Pascrell Jr. and New Jersey Health Commissioner Judith M. Persichilli last week joined Hudson County Executive Thomas A. DeGise at the Hudson County Vaccine Distribution Center to provide local, state and federal updates on efforts to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to eligible individuals. During the visit, Murphy (seen in photo with Degise), Pascrell and DeGise met with Hudson County residents as they received their first doses of the vaccine at the USS Juneau Center. “Over the past 10 months, Hudson County has worked tirelessly to keep our communities safe during these unprecedented times, from providing a robust
COVID-19 testing program to being the first county in New Jersey to open a public vaccination center,” DeGise
said. “Our efforts will not conclude until every resident has access to this lifesaving vaccine and we will continue
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to direct all resources at our disposal to our vaccination center to administer every dose we receive in an expedited manner.” As of a week ago, 5,671 first doses and 152 second doses of the vaccine have been administered at the countyrun site in Kearny. The vaccination center is overseen by DeGise’s Vaccine Task Force and operated by Hudson Regional Health Commission. Hudson County received 3,500 vaccines
this week that will be administered at the county facility and local municipal sites. The Hudson County Vaccine Distribution Center was allocated 1,300 of this week’s doses and currently has the capacity to administer up to 1,200 doses per day when sufficient supply is made available. “New Jersey is committed to an equitable distribution process of the COVID-19 vaccine to ensure that those most at risk are first in line to be vaccinated,” Murphy said. “We can only accomplish this through partnerships with our local and county governments and I applaud County Executive Tom DeGise and his team for supporting our state’s aggressive vaccination efforts.” “Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, our focus has remained on securing the necessary resources and funding for our communities to locally address the pandemic,” Sires said. “County Executive Tom DeGise has done a tremendous job in providing for Hudson County during these difficult times and we will continue to fight in Washington for additional vaccinations until they are in the arms of every American.”
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KPD: Thefts of catalytic converters on rise because of highvalue metals in them By Capt. Tim Wagner Kearny Police Department
T
he Kearny Police Department has taken four reports this month of thefts of vehicle catalytic converters. The modus operandi has the suspects double-parking, or otherwise parking next to, the target vehicles. A suspect then goes under the target car and crudely cuts out the catalytic converter by severing the exhaust pipes. Investigations show suspects are able to approach a target vehicle, cut the catalytic converter and then flee -- all in under two minutes. In at least one case, the target vehicle’s owner did not realize her catalytic converter had been stolen until she took the car to a mechanic because it was making strange noises. Catalytic converters are an expensive component of a vehicle’s exhaust system. Converters contain the precious metals platinum, palladium and rhodium, which can fetch thieves a significant payday at a scrap yard. These thefts have recently been reported in numerous North Jersey towns and it appears they are possibly being perpetrated by several theft crews. The Kearny Police Department is currently networking with other affected
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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Opinion....................................................................................Page 6
Obituaries...............................................................................Page 13
Sports......................................................................................Page 9
Business Directory.................................................................Page 15
Health & Wellness Directory...............................................Page 10
Classifieds ...................................................................... Pages 20-21
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Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Death of HC Jail inmate under investigation By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com
T
he Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office’s Homicide and Internal Affairs units are investigating an inmate death at the Hudson County Correctional Center, South Kearny, that occurred in the late evening hours of Monday, Jan. 25, 2021, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez said last week. At approximately 10:45
p.m., corrections officers responded to the cell of Jason Sworn, 50, after his cellmate notified them that Sworn had fallen out of bed and was complaining of chest pains. The responding corrections officers attended to Sworn and attempted to perform CPR and used a defibrillator. Nurses at the facility, as well as the EMTs from Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, also responded to assist. Sworn was pronounced deceased at 11:37 p.m.
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Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL
Somehow, people are still using the street to dispose of masks ...
F
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
or those of us out there old enough, perhaps you might recall, oh, it’s probably 25 or more years ago, when syringes were washing up on the beaches of the Jersey Shore? People were afraid to walk on the beach for fear of stepping on the needles and contracting some sort of disease. It was a reasonable reaction back then when the medical waste was washing ashore, just as it would still be today. Medical waste is nothing fun to come across — anywhere — and that’s why the proper disposal of it is so important. Yet here we are, in 2021, about a year into the most serious medical pandemic in a century and somehow, people are disposing of masks as though they simply disappear when they hit asphalt. Quite frankly, this is disgusting, irresponsible and downright unacceptable. Perhaps you aren’t noticing it. So the next time you’re out and about, just look around the streets. Doesn’t matter what town you’re in, you’re going to notice. Think of it like when you buy a new car — and all of a sudden, you notice it when others are driving the same car as you. Those cars were there all along, but now you catch it seemingly all the time. Take the same concept with the disposed-of masks. And it all begs the question — why are people being so careless and thoughtless with the masks? Because every time one drops a used mask onto the street, it’s the equivalent to a diabetic throwing a needle onto the street post-injection. It’s medical waste all the same. So please folks, stop throwing masks away carelessly. No one (trash collectors, DPW workers) should ever have to pick up waste in this manner. Is it really asking folks for too much just to hold onto the masks until you can find a trash bin? Think about it.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
A guilty bin Laden didn’t fly planes on 9/11, so Trump is similarly at fault for insurrection To the Editor:
more.
On Jan. 6, our now-former president called a private army to Washington, D.C., and directed them to the Capitol to “stop the steal.”
Some of the ex-president’s supporters say he did not personally invade the Capitol.
The only steal was the one he was trying to pull off to stay in power, despite losing the election by more than seven million votes; but how was anyone going to “stop the steal?” All the states had certified their results, live on television. Now-President Biden had won in the Electoral College by a landslide margin. (Or is that a landslide only when it favors the narcissist-in-chief?)
And Osama bin Laden did not fly the planes on Sept 11, 2001. Our would-be tyrant tried to overthrow our government and install himself as dictator. That is not spin. It is a fact.
The only way to reverse the result was to storm and invade the Capitol by force, and stop the electoral votes from being counted.
The idea that this man did our country any good is a pure fantasy. He had nothing to do with the development of the COVID-19 vaccine; the scientists did that. We will pay for his tax cuts when we have to pay for the additional $7.8 trillion in debt he piled up; the rich are not going to pay for it, he cut their taxes.
The perp-in-chief knew exactly what he was doing, and the crowd did too.
There are more jobs now -- I know many people who have three of them each.
“Take the Capitol,” they shouted. It’s all recorded. This was an insurrection, and the person who brought the private army to Washington and told them what to do is guilty of treason.
His strategy was and is the Big Lie. He lies about everything; the bigger the lie, the better. It is a deliberate and calculated strategy. This is too much for most people to believe -- which is exactly what he counted on all along. The strategy is clearly spelled out in “Mein Kampf,” chapter 10.
He waged war on the United States, in an effort to remain in power, for his own benefit and gain. The punishment for treason as specified in the USC section 2381. You can look it up, if you want to. As he said often, if we do not enforce the laws, then we will not have a country any
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If you don’t know who authored that, all the better. Look it up and read it for yourself. Look for “big lie” in the text.
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New music debuts on Applause Radio murderer by night. It will be released before the end of February, but his other shorts are available on Amazon Prime. Both DICI and Maknojia are a prime example of the amazing things you can do these days with modern technology. In DICI’s case, he would lock himself in his room for 12 to 15 hours and just learn and create.
The outcome is incredible. On Jan. 30, I enjoyed doing another special for an all-music evening. It was a recap of the music I debuted on the show in January for my guests. I really enjoy doing this broadcast because I get to sit back and enjoy the music instead of having to discuss it. It was a variety of music, including the
blues, Hip Hop/R&B and some pop. Makes me feel like I am listening to an old Top 40 Radio station because of the mix. Music is one of the things that I genuinely love, so doing this spot once a month is enjoyable. Check our calendar at www. applauseradioshow.com for the next all-music evening, usually the end of each month.
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have mentioned it before, and I will probably mention it again — I love when Applause Radio Show (ARS) introduces new music, new movies and new stars to listeners. The past two weeks, we did just that. New Urban/Hip Hop artist DICI, (pronounced DEETCHIE) joined me on Jan. 20. Dici is a fine young man who is extremely talented. Just coming off a full-spread ad in Billboard magazine, I had the pleasure of debuting three songs from his new EP. I am not much of a hip hop/urban fan, but I am surrounded by it with my 19-year-old son. He lives for it. I do, however, love old school rap. That said, one thing that is quite different from the old school rap is that most of these songs include somewhat explicit lyrics. Nothing disgusting, just your average cussing. But when you listen to the songs, the cussing is a prerequisite to make the song work. It is funny though, if you want mainstream airplay, they will not play these songs as they are. They either need to be bleeped or edited. In any event, DICI’s music is with the times. A college student who found himself doing nothing during the pandemic and one day he was scrolling through YouTube and stumbled upon producer Kenny Beats. He was blown away. He always loved rap and when he honed in on Protools, (a musician’s production tool on the computer to lay down tracks and create music) he learned it from soup to nuts. By doing so, he was able to write, sing and produce his own music. I was overly impressed. Especially since I have never learned how to use it and have always wanted to. I played songs called “Bar for Bar,” “Vector” and “305 Interlude.” “Bar” was the first song he produced himself and once I heard the other two, I could hear how he had grown. Each song, with its production, sounded better and better. What is the 305 in “305 Interlude?” You guessed it, the zip
code for Miami. Could Dici be the next Mr. 305, Pitbull? With his talents being this good at such a young age, you never know. Check out his new music on YouTube along with his videos at DICI music videos. You may also hear his music and download it at www.dicimusic. com. I am very curious to see if he goes to the heights that I believe he can accomplish. Feeling a little down in the dumps the last two weeks, it was necessary to bring back the inspiring Sterling Mire. Mire is an author, psychic and life coach amongst other things and when she was on the show last month, she was so uplifting. Well, she did it again. She picked me up and I hope to get her new book “AOM: Manifestation Mastery in 30 days,” a self-help book to help you accomplish your goals and get over the hurdles that are stopping you from reaching your goals. She may be reached for all her services at www.intuitivelifebysterling.com or www. getyourlife.com. Trust me, just speaking to Sterling changed my attitude and got me out of my funk. I can only imagine what the effects of reading the book will and can do. It is available at all online book outlets and at the best brick and mortar bookstores. Thanks, Sterling, I needed that … again. On Jan. 24, I met actor/producer Anis Maknojia. Maknojia dabbled in film and camera work. But he took his love of acting and behindthe-scenes production and put them together to form Land Ahoy Films. He has done several shorts, such as “Artifice,” “With Interest” and “Breathe.” Not only does he write the scripts, but he also acts and directs in the films. Born and raised in Texas, Maknojia is of Indian descent. I could not help but ask him why he has not tackled Bollywood. Eventually, he says, he may touch on a Bollywood-themed film but for now, he is enjoying creating dramas and some with a splash of comedy. His new release “Jack” is a slasher/thriller, a story about a daytime tech executive and
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Final pair of Kearny Girl Scout artwork on display
Jaymie Cambrelen
Rylee Caravajal
Former Nutley Rescue Squad president charged with theft, ECPO says By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com The former president of the Nutley Emergency and Recuse Squad has been arrested and charged with one count of second-degree theft for stealing in excess of $75,000 from various rescue squad accounts and running up more than $30,000 in personal expenses on a rescue squad-issued debit card, the Essex County prosecutor said last week. It is alleged that from May 2019 to August 202, Jonathan Arredondo, 30, of River Vale, withdrew cash from the rescue squad accounts, typically in increments of about $5,000, on 19 occasions -- and then went to his personal bank and deposited the money at the ATM, the ECPO said. At the time of the alleged theft, Arredondo was president of the rescue
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squad. For much of that time, the position of treasurer was unfilled. In 2020, a new treasurer was elected and an audit, an investigation was opened. Arredondo is expected to make his first court appearance March 1.
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Sports & Recreation WITH
Jim Hague
9
Buccaneers hope for another successful season
ogsmar@aol.com
Nutley girls try to keep winning ways going The Nutley High School girls’ basketball team had a wonderful season a year ago, winning 19 games and in the process, captured the championship of the Super Essex Conference’s Liberty Division. The season was perhaps unexpected, but veteran coach Larry Mitschow has worked wonders before in his nine years with the Maroon Raiders, leading the team to heights that were almost Cinderella-esque in stature. Now, the Maroon Raiders have to carry on without two major cogs, one of whom was one of the best players in Nutley girls’ basketball history. Abby Scheidel was outstanding in every facet of the game. She averaged 19 points per game, earning All-State Group III and AllSuper Essex Conference honors. Scheidel has taken her talents to Muhlenberg University and will play there when the school’s season returns. The team also lost rebounding machine Jaden Long, who averaged 10 points and 10 rebounds per game and had an absolute explosion of high scoring games toward the end of the season. Both Scheidel and Long were named Ob-
server Athletes of the Week last season. Because of the Raiders’ success last season, they have been placed in the American Division of the SEC, faving the likes of University of Newark, East Orange, West Orange, Newark Tech and Montclair Immaculate. So it’s a little bit of a rebuilding season for Mitschow and the Raiders and one that will now be delayed in starting due to a COVID-19 shutdown and quarantine for the time being. Mitschow doesn’t like the term “rebuilding.” “It’s going to be quite a challenge,” Mitschow said. “It’s going to be extremely difficult facing each of those teams twice. It’s going to be extremely difficult for our young team. We don’t like to call any year a rebuilding year. But after the season we had a year ago and the key players we lost, we may have to alter our team goals just a bit.” So Mitschow told the Maroon Raiders to concentrate on the little things. “I told the girls from Day One to let’s improve as a team and individually as much as possible,” See VIEW, Page 11
Photos by Jim Hague
Belleville junior point guard Ethan Laquindanum and Belleville junior small forward Nasir Bey.
By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com The Belleville High School boys’ basketball team won 19 games a year ago. Although the season is truncated this season to just 15 games because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, veteran head coach Jim Catalano, now back coaching at his alma mater, has high hopes for his team. “It’s hard to say, but I think we’re pretty upbeat about our team,” said Catalano, who was the long-time coach at NJIT (called New Jersey Tech back then) and had some stints at other high schools before returning home three years ago. “Most of our team last year was sophomores,” Catalano said. “Who knew what they could do? Well, they all did very well. We have a great group of kids. I’m thinking they should all continue to come along.” The Buccaneers lost one key player to graduation. Hector Castro, who was a
two-time Observer Athlete of the Week during his career at Belleville, graduated and hopes to play college basketball now. Castro averaged 19.6 points and almost 10 rebounds per game last season. “It’s a huge loss for us,” Catalano said. “He set the tone for everyone. He did a little bit of everything.” Leading the returnees is 5-foot-7 junior point guard Ethan Laquindanum, who averaged 10 points and seven assists last year. “He’s just a jolt of lightning on the floor,” Catalano said. “He’s the toughest kid we have. And you don’t want him guarding you. You have to be really careful playing him, because he can get to the basket against anyone. Once he’s going to the basket, then he’s able to pass the ball. It’s fun to watch.” Another standout is 6-foot-1 junior forward Nasir Bey, who averaged 12.5 points, five rebounds and four assists per game. Bey could make up some of the scoring punch
lost by the graduation of Castro. “He really came on last year,” Catalano said. “He developed an excellent jump shot and became a good 3-point shooter. He’s become a leader on the team. He suffers no lapses on the court and goes hard every time down the floor. Every possession, every pass, he’s on. I’m really pleased with both Ethan and Nas.” Another returnee with a huge upside is 6-foot-5 senior Mofeayo Kuku, or just Mo for short. Kuku was a dominating force for the Buccaneers, especially down the stretch of the season a year ago. “He really came along at the end of last year,” Catalano said. “He worked on his game over the summer. He looks pretty good. He can play at the next level for sure.” Senior Danny Castillo is a 6-foot-1 guard who missed all of last season due to injury and illness. But Castillo is See BELLEVILLE, Page 10
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said. “He does everything we say. He’s as quick as Ethan. He’s fast and aggressive. He Continued from Page 9 fits into our defenses well.” Patrick Candalera is a healthy and ready to contrib- 5-foot-9 sophomore point ute this season. guard who will back up Ethan “He’s a great 3-point Laquindanum. shooter,” Catalano said. “He “He epitomizes what we do can really shoot it. Since he’s defensively,” Catalano said. been cleared to play, he’s been “He takes charges and dives working hard to get ready. I all over the floor.” was concerned about him last Al Horne is a 6-foot foryear. No doubt, he’s back and ward and a player on the it’s like old times.” Belleville football team. Junior Shanne Laquinda“He’s just athletic,” Catanum is a 6-0 guard and the lano said of the junior Horne. cousin of Ethan. “He’s a very good rebounder.” “He’s just a drop dead Richmond Casino is not 3-point shooter,” Catalano a place, but the name of a said. “He missed most of last junior newcomer to the Bucseason with a knee problem, caneers. Casino is a 6-foot but he’s back and has been forward. filling it up in practice. He’s a “He has great instincts on very smart player and a good the floor,” Catalano said. “He passer.” has turned into a starter at Senior Alex Martinez is a guard with Ethan.” 6-foot transfer from BloomCatalano said his team was field Tech. getting into the solid defen“He may be the most athsive frame of mind that he letic kid we have,” Catalano
BELLEVILLE
demands as a coach. “We have a couple of kids who have an uncanny knack of taking charges and diving on the floor,” Catalano said. “They’re all buying in.” The Buccaneers opened the season with a loss to Livingston, a game where Ethan Laquindanum led the way with 12 points. They rebounded in fine fashion, defeating Caldwell, 46-43. In that game, Casino was the leading scorer with 11 points and two players, namely Bey and Shanne Laquindanum had nine points each. Kuku had a fine all-around game with seven points, eight rebounds and astounding eight blocked shots. The Bucs open the season with six of seven on the road. “It is what it is,” Catalano said. “The season is so short that we can’t afford slip-ups.” Count on the Bucs to be a solid force in the SEC Colonial this season.
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Franklin School announces January SOTM Yvonne Cali, principal of Franklin School in Kearny, has announced January Students of the Month. Those chosen were based on the month’s mantra, “Feedback is a gift. Accept it.” Mariana Gonzalez Zuniga, Rebecca Fernandes, Bianca Allegre Marcelino, Benjamin Burga Suejiro,Enmanuel Cordova Velez, Ernesto Rodriguez Garcia, Isadora Rodrigues, Miles O’Blenis, Mia Ramos,Makenzie Carrasco, Abdel Touzani, Isabella Osorio, Hayley Macias, Rayyan Bourquia, Bryan Toledo,Daniel Cooke, Christopher Sanchez, Maria Zapata Calle, Luca Martinez, Kamil Marte Pineda, Valeria Lopez Echavarria, Nicholas Phoung, Lillian Nelson, Maria Pinheiro Borges, Arsenio Santiago,Ramon Antonio Rosario Perez, Daniel
DeGodoy Rocha, Lizellie Paucar Masache, Samuel Silva,Aidan Fernandes, Mason Viana-Negron, Anna Petelski, Manuel Paz, Andres Layes, Adrianne Breen,Medginie Saint Louis, Janielle Figueroa, Cataleya Villarubbia, Lucas Galeano Padin, Ashley Martinez Hernandez, Blake LopezSchulkes, Christian Rojas, Matthew Feijoo, Liam Rodriguez, Noah Portuesi,Vicente Fernandes, Anna Varghese, Mrida Vignesh, Roger Rodriguez Solorzano, Samir Pardo, sAfiha Maliha, Isabella Rocha, Kimberly Medina, Deicer Timbay, Sean Novay, Kai Ferreira, Brian Schechter, Joshua Joseph Carias Villalobos, Madison Martinez, Alivia Cruz, Sadie Cardona Alonzo,Hailey Fajardo, Ayaan Stewart and D’Alessandro Aliaga Diaz.
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Premier Care Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
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THE DANGERS OF LOW BLOOD SUGAR
The dangers of high blood sugar are glycemia and you don’t have diabetes,
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Wednesday, February 3, 2021
VIEW
Continued from Page 11 Mitschow said. “I told them to build team chemistry and maybe pull off a couple of upsets along the way.” Leading the returnees is junior guard Mackenzie Albert. While Albert is known better for her immense soccer skills, Albert is an excellent basketball player as well. “She is super fast off the dribble and gets to the basket really well,” Mitschow said. “She’s also our best defender. She started every game last year.” Another key returnee is Liana Minchini, who is a
sophomore guard. “She’s our best 3-point shooter,” Mitschow said. “We need her to score a lot more this year. She also started every game last year.” Junior Stephanie Luberto and junior Alex Twomey also return from last year. “They were role players who have to step up this year,” Mitschow said. “They will have more important roles this season.” Junior Nicole Cicchetti and sophomore Megan Riccardi were also on the team last season, but saw limited minutes. “They’re looking to crack the starting rotation this season or play key roles coming off the bench,” Mitschow said. Nutley sophomore guard Liana Minchini. Mitschow said that only 16
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Photo by Jim Hague
girls came out for basketball, eight of whom are freshmen. “We’re very excited from what we have seen from the freshmen so far,” Mitschow said. “I expect a few of them to play varsity minutes this season.” So it’s time to play another season once the quarantine is lifted. “The players and coaches are pumped to be back in the gym,” Mitschow said. “With everything that is going on in the world right now, we’re just happy to be having another season and can’t wait for the opening tip of Nutley basketball.” Whenever that tip will be held still remains to be seen.
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Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Blue Tide moves ahead with new roster
By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com The Harrison High School boys’ basketball team was devastated by graduation, leaving only one player returning for head coach Jose Camano. “It’s really rare to see a team lose that amount of players from one team,” said Camano, the former Observer Male Athlete of the Year during his playing days at Harrison who begins his second season as head coach. “And it’s extremely difficult to build a new team, especially in a pandemic.” Because of the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, the high school season was shortened
to just 15 games and teams were given just two weeks of practice to prepare. “It’s tough because we have a team that has no varsity experience,” Camano said. “We are teaching them the fundamentals, but have only two weeks. We’re teaching as much we can in a short period of time. I didn’t see any of this coming, but none of us thought there would be a pandemic.” The lone returning player is 5-foot-11 shooting guard Chris Mendez. “He was like my secret weapon off the bench,” Camano said. “He was also my defensive stopper. He is going to have a bigger role this
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Harrison senior guard Chris Mendez and Harrison junior forward Jayden Galindo.
season. He can shoot it pretty well. He’s that kind of kid who comes to practice every day, who works hard. He just loves
to play varsity basketball.” Much like he did for the football team in the fall. Junior Jayden Galindo is
another key member of the Blue Tide roster. The 6-foot Galindo is a small forward. “He’s a good defensive player,” Camano said. “He can shoot the ball off the dribble. He can rebound pretty well. He’s a strong, physical kid.” Galindo also played football for the Blue Tide in the fall. Junior Llyas Bendaddouch is a 6-foot-2 power forward who owns the most unique name in the area. “He’s a scrappy player, a physical player,” Camano said. Junior Amaru Perales is a 6-foot-6 specimen and the Blue Tide’s starting center. “He’s a pretty good player,” See BLUE TIDE, Page 15
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Obituaries Born in Kearny on Dec. 7, also organized a food drive 1950, Paul lived his entire life called CanStruction, which Peter Justin in the Hudson County town. involved Kearny High School Millar tragiHe leaves behind his loving engineering department cally lost his wife of 36 years Donna (nee students and supplied six local life on ThursMacKenney); his sister Eileen food banks. Most recently, he day, Jan. 28, McDonald of Lansdale, Penn- helped the Apostles’ House 2021, after a sylvania; a brother George of in Newark by raising money, construction Kearny; three nephews and a throwing parties for the chilaccident in niece. He was the son of the dren in the spring and buying Newark. late George and Agnes (MulChristmas gifts. Relatives and friends are ligan) Rogers. Funeral services are private, invited to visit at the ThielePaul retired from the Kearny in the care of the Armitage Reid Family Funeral Home, Fire Department as a cap& Wiggins Funeral Home in 585 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, tain in 2002 after 25 years of Kearny. A memorial service on Wednesday, Feb. 3, from 4 service. will be announced at a later to 8 p.m. and Thursday, Feb. 4, He loved traveling to Eudate. from 2 to 6 p.m. rope, including visits to Russia, In lieu of flowers, donations Cremation will be private. Spain, Germany and Italy to in his memory may be made to Condolences and memories the Apostles’ House, 24 Grant name a few. He also enjoyed may be shared at www.thieleSt., Newark, N.J. 07104, or to spending time at his summer reid.com the First Presbyterian Church home in New Brunswick, Born in Belleville, Peter Food Bank, 663 Kearny Ave., Canada. Additionally, Paul lived in Kearny his entire life Kearny, N.J. 07032. worked for a number of car before moving to Rutherford dealerships in their parts dethree months ago. ANNETTE SMITH partments, and in recent years, Mr. Millar was a long time Annette Smith (nee Philipthe lifelong learner enjoyed member of Sheet Metal Workson) of Toms River, formerly attending Rutgers Newark, ers Union Local 25 in Carltaking classes in subjects rang- of North Arlington, died Jan. stadt. ing from art to environmental 23, 2021. He is survived by his parShe was 95. geology and doing pottery. ents, Peter Lees and Margaret Arrangements were entrustPaul was a member of the “Maggie” (nee Fisher) Miled to the Armitage & Wiggins West Hudson Optimist Club lar, one sister, Edana Rahbari Funeral Home, Kearny. and served on the board of and her husband, Sean, one Born in Kearny, Annette directors of the Pioneer Boys nephew, Blaine and two nieces and Girls Club of America. He was a lifelong North ArlingBrooke and Isabella. He is also survived by his beloved fiancée, Sandra Maaser, and her daughter, Lauren. He also leaves behind many relatives in the United States, Ireland and England. Mario Teixeria, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757 Peter Justin, known by those Mario Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048 closest to him as “PJ,” would Newly renovated family owned and operated funeral home with multiple locations. always be seen walking his Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. Handicapped Accessible. faithful canine buddy, CiCi. He 138 DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032 was an avid photographer and (201) 991-2265 www.buyusfuneralhome.com loved photos of sunsets and CiCi. As beautiful as the sunsets he captured, he is now off into the sunset and watching over us all from above. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the After a year ASPCA at aspca.org.
PETER JUSTIN MILLAR
Shaw-Buyus Home for Services
ton resident until moving to Toms River five years ago. She worked as a bookkeeper for First National Bank in Kearny until her retirement, and was a longtime devout member of the First Lutheran Church of Kearny. Annette enjoyed spending time at her summer home in Brick Town and most treasured time spent with her family. Annette was predeceased by her beloved husband Basel Smith in 1987. She was the loving mother of Bruce Smith and his wife Carol and Susan Zimmermann and her husband Bill, cherished grandmother of Kristin Carr and her husband Chris, Ryan Smith and his wife Courtney, Matthew Smith, Jayme Haeussler and her husband DJ, Billy Zimmermann and Stephen Zimmermann; and the adoring great-grandmother of Cameron, Carolina, Trey and Dane. Annette was predeceased by her siblings
All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. Elsie Stevenson and George Philipson. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the First Lutheran Church of Kearny, 65 Oakwood Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032.
STEPHANIE KUHRT
Stephanie Kuhrt of Kearny died Jan. 25, 2021. She was 95. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny. Cremation was private. Born in Harrison, Stephanie was a longtime Kearny resident. In her early years, Stephanie was employed by RCA in Harrison, later working for Wallace & Tiernan in Belleville, and finally Roy Rogers, later Wendy’s in East See OBITS, Page 16
Mulligan Funeral Home 331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison
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In Memory of
Maria M. Hernandez February 2, 2020
PAUL ROGERS
Paul Rogers of Kearny died peacefully on Jan. 23, 2021, from complications of a stroke. He was 70.
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14
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Lyndhurst boys: New kids on the block
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By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com The Lyndhurst boys’ basketball team won the first game of the new truncated season Friday night against neighboring rival North Arlington, but the names on the Golden Bears’ roster were not exactly household names. Photo by Jim Hague Veteran coach Tom Lyndhurst senior point guard McGuire basically had to Sean Mayer.
replace his entire roster from a year ago, so there was no doubt that the new season was set to be a work in progress. It was fortunate that it turned out to be a successful one. “We lost a lot to graduation,” McGuire said. “We have some guys back, but most of the team were JV ( junior See LYNDHURST, Page 22
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Wednesday, February 3, 2021 ball IQ,” Camano said. “He also has a nice jump shot.” Continued from Page 12 Freshman Justin Langley is a 6-foot forward Camano said. “He has who will play considernice footwork and is good able minutes. around the basket. He’s “The kid can play,” Cagood with the ball when mano said. “He can play he gets it. He has a nice on both ends of the court. 12-foot jump shot.” He can attack the basket Senior Alan Calle is a and score. He can defend 5-foot-6 point guard. Too pretty well and rebound bad that Calle and Perales well.” don’t stand close to each Freshman Ruben other for a team photo. Stokes is the 5-foot-9 “Alan is a defensive starting point guard. player who has good “He can handle well speed,” Camano said. with both hands,” CaThere’s another. Senior mano said. “He can shoot Sergio Flores is a 5-foot-6 the ball well. He’s getting point guard as well. May- better every day as we be we can get a picture of speak.” Perales in the middle of Camano has no probthe two guards. lem counting heavily on “Sergio can handle the two freshmen right away. ball well,” Camano said. “I like it,” Camano said. “He’s another speedy “It shows that the future player who is a defensive of our program is bright. player.” I like watching them Senior Kevin Morejon play.” is a 6-foot-4 center and And hopes to have back-up to Perales. them with him for the “He has a good basket- next four years.
BLUE TIDE
15
The Observer | www.theobserver.com Camano said that sophomore Ethan Oeckel, a 6-foot-1 power forward from the strong Oeckel/ Ferriero family in Harrison, will get a chance to play. “He’s a good low post player with good post moves,” Camano said. “He’s also a good rebounder.” Sophomore Edward Burgos is a 6-foot guard. “He’s a good offensive player with a high knowledge of the game,” Camano said. The Blue Tide was scheduled to begin their season last week, but Secaucus’ season was halted due to a COVID positive test. So the Blue Tide will wait out the snow and see what happens this week. “We’re using the break to our advantage,” Camano said. And we will all see how the freshmen perform with the Blue Tide varsity.
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201.991.1600
16
The Observer | www.theobserver.com
OBITS
Continued from Page 13 Rutherford. Stephanie loved being in the great outdoors, especially camping and taking trips to the beach. She also enjoyed time spent at home, doing word books, crafts, ceramics and crocheting. Above all, she most treasured time spent with her loving family. The daughter of the late Stephen and Sophia Levchak, Stephanie was the beloved
wife of the late Frederick John Kuhrt Sr., and mother of the late Frederick John Kuhrt Jr. She is survived by her loving children John Kuhrt, Lorraine Kuhrt Fitzgerald and Garry Kuhrt. She was the dear grandmother of Frederick John Kuhrt III (Nicole), John Kuhrt Jr. (Michelle), Michael Kuhrt, Daniel Kuhrt and Kayla Fitzgerald; adoring greatgrandmother of John Angel Kuhrt, McKenna Grace Kuhrt, Michael Kuhrt Jr. and Frederick John Kuhrt IV. She was the loving mother-in-law of Karen Kuhrt,
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Deborah Kuhrt and Richard Fitzgerald. Stephanie was the cherished sister of the late Stanley Levchak and Anne Schlaefer. She is also survived by her loving nieces and nephews Stephen, Thomas and Sharon Levchak, Donna Scott Christ, Christine Tate, Amie Schlaefer, Jada Schlaefer, Richard Kuhrt, Suzanne Kuhrt and Donald Kuhrt.
WILLIAM M. CONKLIN SR.
William M. Conklin Sr., 77, of Montclair, died Jan. 31, 2021. Relatives and friends are
201.991.0067
432 Ridge Road | North Arlington, NJ | www.RipostaLaw.com NOTICE
Take notice that applications for a Waterfront Development Individual Permit and a Flood Hazard Control Act Permit will be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Division of Land Use Regulation (DLUR) for the development described as follows: PROJECT NAME: Remediation Early Works of Occidental Chemical Corporation Chromite Ore Processing Residue Site 131 in Kearny, New Jersey PROJECT APPLICANT: Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of its affiliate Occidental Chemical Corporation (OCC) The proposed project consists of remedial activities at the Chromite Ore Processing Residue (COPR) Site 131 in Kearny, New Jersey. The work will be implemented by Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of their affiliate, OCC, in accordance with a Remedial Action Workplan approved by NJDEP pursuant to a September 2011 Consent Judgement between NJDEP and OCC, PPG Industries, Inc., and Honeywell International Inc. The proposed Project includes implementing remedial actions on a portion of Site 131 and adjacent areas to accommodate the Portal North Bridge (PNB) project, a project of national significance, that will occur on, or adjacent to, the subject sites. BLOCK: 287 LOTS: 33, 33.01 MUNICIPALITY: Kearny COUNTY: Hudson The complete permit application package can be reviewed at the Kearny Town Clerk’s Office or by appointment at NJDEP’s Trenton Office. NJDEP welcomes comments and any information that you may provide concerning the proposed development and site. Please submit your written comments within 15 calendar days of the date of this notice to the following address: New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Division of Land Use Regulation Mail Code 1311-02A PO Box 420 Trenton, New Jersey 08625 Attn: Kearny Supervisor
Wednesday, Febaruary 3, 2021
invited to attend a visitation for William at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, on Thursday, Feb. 4 from 4 to 8 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Cross Church in Harrison on Friday, Feb. 5, at 10 a.m. Cremation will be private. Born in Newark, William was raised in the Ironbound section, and was later a longtime Kearny resident until moving to Montclair 10 years ago. A die-hard fan of the New York Rangers, William loved attending games, but he most enjoyed taking long walks, especially if it was with his loving dog, Benji. William was the beloved husband to the late Irene (nee Young) Conklin. He was the loving father of James Young and his wife Maryam, Elaine A. Conklin and her husband Butch Casey, Margaret Santeramo and her husband Jason, William M. Conklin Jr. and Mary K. Conklin and her husband Robert Gorski. He was the cherished grandfather of Vinny, Mark, Ariana, Malana, Skyler, Liam, Jay Jay, Kevin Jr. and Robbie. He is also survived by his brother Michael Conklin and by many loving friends and family members. He was predeceased by his brothers Richard, Joseph and Thomas Conklin. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the ASPCA.
MICHAEL JUDE VITALE SR.
Michael Jude Vitale Sr., 78, of Kearny, died Jan. 25, 2021. Born in 1942 in Jersey City, Michael was raised in Hoboken and attended A. J. Demarest High School. Michael is best described as a kind, strong and generous man with a heart of gold that deeply touched so many lives. He worked at NY Shipping Company for 18 years after retiring from Verizon Communications. Michael was the husband of the love of his life, Carolyn Vitale (née Capone), dedicated and beloved father of Nancy, Glenn and his wife, Joann, Michael Jr. and his wife, Susana. He was very proud of
his cherished grandchildren, Anthony, Victoria, Jason, Nico, Alexis, Evan and Tyler, who all adored him. Devoted brother of Joseph Vitale and his wife, Michele, Michael Cannarozzi and his wife, Arlene, and the late Billy Vitale and his wife, Denise, Ray-Ray Vitale and Matthew Cannarozzi. Endeared brother-in-law of Michelina Meola and her husband, the late Ralph Meola and Marie and Joe Klimakowski. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones. He was predeceased by his parents, Philomena (née Tronolone) and Raphael Vitale. Funeral services are private and were under the direction of the Nazare Memorial Home, 403 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst. In lieu of flowers, Michael’s family requests donations be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105 or by following the link in Michael’s online obituary. Please visit nazarememorialhome.com where you may express your condolences to Michael’s family by using his tribute wall. Rachel B. Fitzpatrick Rachel B. Fitzpatrick (nee Shearer), 88 of Dingman’s Ferry, Pennsylvania, died peacefully at Warren Haven Nursing Home on Jan. 29, 2021. Funeral services are private, in the care of the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Born in Jersey City, Rachel was a longtime resident of Kearny and North Arlington until moving to Dingman’s Ferry in 2005. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Kearny, and was a former head majorette for the Kearny High School marching band. Rachel worked for the Bank of New York in North Arlington for over 40 years, working all the way up to branch manager before her retirement. Rachel was the beloved wife of 65 years to the late John Fitzpatrick; loving mother of Robert Fitzpatrick (Geraldine) and William Fitzpatrick; dear grandmother of Megan Fitzpatrick and aunt of Shirley Effner (Doug) and their daughter Lisa. Rachel was predeceased by her sister Marion Corkin.
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
The Observer | www.theobserver.com
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KPD: Knucklehead knocks into PAPD cop’s SUV
into custody. Officer Nicole Williams appeared at Harrison Police n Jan. 20 at 8:09 Headquarters, where Jean p.m., a green was booked on Harrison’s Toyota that was charges. She charged him street. Lt. Corbett shone his eluding a Harriadditionally with two counts spotlight on the micturating son police officer entered Keof aggravated assault (one male for a more discriminatarny via Passaic Avenue and against a law enforcement ofing view. This prompted the then rear-ended the SUV of a ficer and the other for causing man to walk to the sidewalk Port Authority police officer, bodily injury while eluding and continue his flow. which was stopped at a traffic police) and resisting arrest Lt. Corbett approached light for Belgrove Drive. for his actions that allegedly and met Freddy F. Chillagana After pushing the officer’s occurred in Kearny. Curay, 24, of Brooklyn, and SUV into a utility pole and inJean was later remanded Freddy’s seven passengers. juring the cop’s finger, fleeing to the Hudson County Jail, Lt. Corbett quickly identidriver Leotaire Jean Jr., 30, of South Kearny. fied signs of alcohol impairNewark, drove through a gas It is unclear what precipment and beckoned Officer station to continue his flight, itated Jean’s alleged flight Chris Montes to conduct but rear-ended a second advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 from Harrison authorities. field-sobriety testing in car after exiting to Belgrove On Jan. 24 at 2:40 a.m., Spanish. Curay failed the r: Client: Drive. Lt. Jack Corbett Jr. was out tests and was charged with PAPD Officer Miguel cruising and then parked DWI and urinating in public, Correa-Rodriguez, though in- to monitor traffic near 936 a town ordinance violation. jured, exited his SUV and gave Harrison Ave. Strangely, the The seven passengers were chase on foot. He caught up to lieutenant saw a black Ford taken to Wawa to await a cab. Jean, who allegedly resisted Explorer stop in the left lane Curay was later released to a arrest by trying to fight off the of eastbound traffic near his responsible adult. officer, causing dvertising: Here is theabrasions updatedtotemplate with a new photo of JarlynnOn Hyde: roost. Jan. 25 at 12:29 p.m., Rodriguez’s elbows and knees. The driver emerged from Officer Mat Lopez began to Civilian onlookers and Har- the Explorer, walked to the rison officers came to assist front of the SUV, unzipped and Jean was ultimately taken and began to urinate in the By Capt. Tim Wagner Kearny Police Department
POLICE BEAT
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write a parking ticket to a rented Chevrolet sedan in the parking lot of BJ’s Wholesale Club. The Chevy was parked partially in a handicapped space and partially in the quasi-public roadway. Before Officer Lopez was finished penning out the charge, Benjamin Grava, 22, of Irvington, got into the Chevy and tried to reverse out of the spot. Officer Lopez approached to tell the Grava to stay put and in doing so, found the odor of raw marijuana emanating from his Chevy. Assisted by Officers Ryan Stickno and Bismark Karikari, Officer Lopez searched Grava’s Chevy and recovered 35 bags of marijuana (approximately 281 grams), two bags of psychedelic mushrooms, a 1,000 mg bottle of THC liquid, two THC vape pens, a digital scale, an open Hennessy Cognac bottle and numerous empty baggies. Grava was arrested and
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charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana and mushrooms, possession of CDS in school zone with intent to distribute, possession of THC liquid, possession of drug paraphernalia and traffic tickets for operating a vehicle with drugs and an open container of alcohol and parking in a handicapped space. Grava was remanded to the county jail.
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The Observer | www.theobserver.com
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
PSE&G warns of new, creative scams Utility says it would never ask for payments via gift cards
By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com
P
SE&G is warning customers of an increase of new scams. The company says it has observed an increase in scammers contacting customers, falsely alleging overdue balances and threatening to shut off power without immediate payment. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, be
aware that PSE&G has suspended any service disconnections for residential customers. While the common scam tactic of requesting a prepaid debit card (such as Green Dot cards available at local pharmacies and convenience stores) to provide payment is still active, some scammers are now demanding payment via digital payment platforms or apps such as Venmo. PSE&G says it does not
accept payments through prepaid debit cards or third-party mobilepayment applications and offers a variety of payment options, but would never require one specific payment method. “Scammers give their prey a reason to panic and then offer you a quick resolution via payment. They want you to react quickly, without thinking clearly. By demanding payment via apps, the scammer is further
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reducing the time for you to become suspicious of a scam,” the utility giant said. Learn the signs of potential scam activity, according to PSE&G. They include: • Threat to disconnect: Scammers may aggressively tell the customer their utility bill is past due and service will be disconnected if a payment is not made – usually within an hour. • Request for immediate payment: Scammers may tell the customer to purchase a prepaid card, a gift card or even Bitcoin, and then tell them to call back to make a phone payment to the utility company. They may request the customer use a thirdparty mobile app to make an online payment — or even give instructions for an in-person meeting, supposedly at a utility customer center. • Request card information: If a customer calls back with the requested information, the caller asks the customer for the prepaid card’s number or gift-card PIN, which grants the scammer instant access to the card’s funds, and the victim’s money is gone. • In persondemands: Scammers may arrive at a home or business, flash a fake ID and/or claim to be a utility collection representative. The impostors may wear “uniforms” or affix false company signs to their vehicles. Scammers generally ask for personal information, which real utility representatives
never do, or offer bogus discounts. • Priority meter installations: Recent phone scams reported to PSE&G include requiring a deposit for a priority-meter installation. PSE&G does not require a deposit for meter installations. You can protect yourself against scams: • Be alert to the telltale sign of a scam: someone asking by telephone or email for payment in pre-paid debit cards or a MoneyGram transfer, or to send money to an out-ofstate address. • Never divulge account or personal information, including Social Security numbers or debit or credit card information, unless you are certain you are speaking to a PSE&G representative. • If a PSE&G representative legitimately calls you, they will ask to speak to the “Customer of Record.” If that person is available, the representative will explain why they are calling and provide the customer’s account name, address and current balance. If the caller can’t provide that information, they are not likely a PSE&G representative. • A PSE&G representative will only discuss the account with the “Customer of Record.” • If you have doubts about the legitimacy of a call or an email — especially one in which payment is requested — call PSE&G directly at (800) 436-7734.
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Wednesday, February 3, 2021 (SANTOS, from Page 1.) at this location by early this afternoon. Doesn’t look busy, right? We could do twice the number, but we didn’t get more vaccine! We have more than adequate staffing to assist with registration, nurses for vaccination and EMTs for observation — and a large room to separate the different groups. We also can’t schedule any more clinics until the State of NJ and Hudson County supply the Kearny Health Department with more vaccine. “Vaccination centers need to be set up in residential neighborhoods accessible to vulnerable populations such as seniors and those who don’t have a vehicle. The county’s Juneau Center site in South Kearny is 5 1/2 miles from the nearest residential home in Kearny and is not reachable by public transportation. This geographic distance creates an undue burden on the very communities that have been disproportionately affected by COVID. Give us more vaccine!” After reading the post, The Observer contacted Santos who agreed to expand on his frustrations. We present it to you now in Question & Answer format. The Observer (TO): Your post was critical of the county center’s location. Do you believe a town like ours should be getting more doses rather than sending so many doses to South Kearny? Santos (S): The federal government procures the vaccine and then allocates doses to the states proportionately based on the population of each state. The State of New Jersey should follow the same method in distributing vaccines to municipalities, but it
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The Observer | www.theobserver.com doesn’t. Instead, the state has delegated allocation authority to the County of Hudson, which is not allocating supply based on municipal population. TO: I recall that the governor gave permission to the county to handle distribution of doses to municipalities. If true, do you believe the county is disproportionately giving doses to other towns? S: The county’s allocation method is opaque. Based on its share of the total county population, Kearny should receive 6% of vaccine doses sent to the county. We haven’t received anywhere near that amount. Some of it is going to the county’s regional distribution center in South Kearny (near Truck Route 1&9) but that location is more than five miles away from the nearest Kearny residence. TO: What’s the number of those vaccinated in Kearny vs. the number of those who have requested vaccination? S: From Jan. 18 to Jan. 28, the Kearny Health Department has administered 570 vaccines at various locations such as the Water Department, the Hartung Recreation Center and Kearny High School. That is a drop in the bucket of demand for vaccine. Based on the current eligibility criteria of 65 and older, and those 16 to 64 with a serious health condition, it’s estimated that approximately 30% of the town is eligible for vaccine. We receive desperate calls from residents daily. The 570 doses administered to date refers to Kearny residents under the current eligibility criteria only. Another 100 will be administered on Wednesday, Feb. 3. The 570
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number does not include the first-dose vaccines that have already been administered at senior housing at Spruce Terrace and 681 Schuyler Ave., and at the Alaris nursing homes on Bergen Avenue and Belgrove Drive (those doses were administered by CVS or Walgreens pursuant to a federal contract; the town’s Health Department helped in coordinating logistics at the senior housing sites including having Kearny EMTs and nurses present when the vaccines were administered at those locations). In addition, the 570 number does not include the first doses of vaccine already administered to Kearny EMTs, nurses, firefighters and police. TO: How many vaccine doses does the town need? S: We have adequate nursing and EMT staff to easily dispense 150 to 200 vaccines daily. TO: Do you know who is responsible for this delay? S: Only two vaccines have received emergency approval
so far. The manufacturers are facing serious constraints in meeting global demand. Scarcity combined with opaque distribution guidelines from the State of New Jersey have created the current disorganization and inequitable distribution of supply. TO: What would you suggest to those who want, but who can’t get, the vaccine? What’s the best steps to take? S: Keep monitoring the town website (www.kearnynj.org), or call the Kearny Health Department or my office at Town Hall to check on availability. It can change day to day. Keep in mind that appointments are only made at the time that supply is confirmed and it’s publicly announced so that everyone has a shot at trying to get one of the vaccine appointments. In addition, federally licensed health clinics, such as North Hudson Community Action Corp., can also vaccinate residents if a resident is willing to go to the North Hudson clinic in Union City.
TO: President Biden bought 200 million more doses. Will this help or is that too far away from becoming a reality? S: Too far away. The manufacturers have until this summer to meet the federal government’s recent additional vaccine purchase. A month ago, there was a short window to purchase additional supply from Pfizer for first quarter 2021, but the US government turned Pfizer’s offer down and that additional allotment was sold to the European Union. TO: Is there anything else you’d like residents to know? S: I’m hopeful that Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine candidate is approved soon so that we get additional vaccine supply. We also need transparency in the distribution of vaccine from state and county officials so we can be confident that no one is getting favorable treatment or cutting the line. I hope we can work together with State and County officials in addressing these concerns.”
PRESS RELEASE PreK and Kindergarten Registration Kearny School District 172 Midland Avenue Kearny, NJ 07032 The Kearny school district will be accepting ONLINE registration for the following programs for the 2021-22 school year: • Full Day Preschool Age 3 (Limited Seats Available) (Child must be THREE years of age on or before OCTOBER 1st) • Full Day Preschool Age 4 (Child must be FOUR years of age on or before OCTOBER 1st) • Full Day Kindergarten (Child must beFIVE years of age on or before OCTOBER 1st) Current PreK 3 students DO NOT have to re-register for PreK 4 and current PreK 4 students DO NOT have to re-register for Kindergarten. Registration will be completed online only following the schedule below. You will not be coming to the Board of Education Office. Full Day Preschool Age 4 & Full Day Kindergarten: The registration link will be active beginning February 8, 2021 at 9:00am. Students will be placed on a first come, first serve basis until all available seats are filled. Full Day Preschool Age 3: The registration link will be active on March 1, 2021 from 6:00pm-9:00pm only as limited seats are available. Students will be placed on a first come, first serve basis until all available seats are filled. All links, forms and instructions can be found on the Kearny School District’s website main page: www.kearnyschools.com. All necessary documents must be uploaded at the time of registration in order to complete the process and secure your child’s placement. It is recommended that parents review what is needed for the registration process in advance of the registration dates in order to ensure the necessary documents are readily available for uploading.
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The Observer | www.theobserver.com
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Observer Classifieds
WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM | THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018
The Obsever is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — no billing. Call 201-991-1600 to place an ad. The Observer cannot accept legal advertising.
EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED
EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED
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Mid-Realty, Inc. has been a successful, professional company who has served New Jersey for over 50 years. If you would like to know how to enjoy an independent, successful career in real estate or if you are an active agent looking for a change, call Mid-Realty, Inc. today for details and a confidential interview. (201)991-5719 or midrealty@gmail.com 32W09
I need a part-time Medical Assistant (FT & PT) for a medical accounting payable office in Kearny. payroll issuance, Payroll Certification and some tax filing, direct deposit experience necessary. payroll, Applicant must Will train. Please email resumes to support@prehave at least 5-10 years miercareassociates.com experience If you are 37W03 interested in the position available please apply now starting from Mon-Friday FULL TIME 4-7 hrs daily, pay rate Light Factory work Apply in person $25/$29 per hr, If you are interested contact David Gild-N-son Mfg. & Sales 328 Belleville Tpke (davismith2000@gmail. Kearny com) for more 38W03 information regarding the job position
Experienced Hair stylist full or part time. Lyndhurst. (201)207-8848
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EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
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Accepting applications for part time and full time Administrative Assistants, building and property maintenance and personal assistants. Excellent opportunity for highly motivated individuals and self starters. Valid driver’s license and multi-lingual (Spanish and/or Portuguese preferred) are both pluses. The company is located Kearny, NJ. Please email resume and references indicating which position you are applying for to internx2@gmail.com or mail to Jobs, 108 Second Avenue Apartment 6B Bradley Beach, NJ 07720
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HARRISON 3 bedroom apartment fully renovated on 3rd floor. Central Air/ Central Heat Seperate Utilities. $2,200/mth plus 1.5 mth security. No Pets (917)577-1465 38W03
KEARNY 357 Kearny Ave, Kearny 1 BR, LR, EIK. $1200 + $1400 security. HT/HW Included. Available Now. (201)283-2729 or (973)465-0166 37W03
KEARNY 2nd fl. Modern 2 BR, Big LR, H/W floors. $1,600 + 1 month security. Utilities not included. No Smoking/Pets. Avl. March 1st. (201) 9534961 39W03
N.ARLINGTON 1st Fl. 1 BR, near Transportation. $1300 + 1 1/5 months security. No smoking. One year lease. Available Now (973)838-1662 36W06
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1 Bedroom Laundry facility on premises. 1 Parking Space Hardwood floors. From $1300 + Utilities. See Super Apartment #2, 61 Newcombe St. Belleville. Call Joe (862)202-9210 39W03
E.NEWARK E.NEWARK 1 bedroom apartment. No Kitchen. $850/mth All Utilties Included. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now (201)7729965 37W03
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Need a classified that caught your eye a week ago? Threw away your
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Clinton Arms Apartments a 72-unit building including 8 units designed for the handicapped or disabled located at 610 Hunterdon St, Newark, NJ 07108 is reopening its waiting list for 3 &4-bedroom rental units to eligible families with limited income. Qualifications will be based on Section 8 Federal guidelines. Interested persons may obtain an application in writing to: Clinton Arms Apartments 277 Northern Boulevard, Suite 203 Great Neck, NY 11021 If you have a disability & need assistance with the application process, please contact Alyssa Kennedy at 516-487-0041 38W03
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SERVICES OFFERED PET CARE
PET CARE BY BARBARA No Need to Worry Dog walking Cat sitting Drop in Visits - Other small pets. I will care for your Pet as if they were my own. Call for consultation References on request (954) 856-5812 37W04
HARRISON HARRISON 3rd Floor. 2 BR’s. LR. EIK. Close to Trans, Path and Schools.$1100 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking. Available Now (973)517-6544 or (973)207-7796 37WO3
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KEARNY 1 bedroom 3rd floor on Stuart Ave. $1,100/mth plus 1 mth security. Heat Included. Available Now (201)9917391 38W03
E. NEWARK 1 bedroom apartment. No Kitchen. $875 + 1.5 months security. All Utilities Included. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now (201)772-9965
newspaper already? Don’t worry LOOKING FOR A SALES DRIVER EXECUTIVE needed for Newark TO JOIN OUR TEAM based wholesale seafood Responsibilities company No CDL reinclude quired. Must have current servicing existing acNJ Driver license Please counts, calling inactive Call 973-623-8989 37W03 accounts, generating new business and growing Auto supply territories & building driver, stock & new leads. Background check. counter persons. Send resumes with a NJ driver’s license. cover letter of Bilingual/English. introduction to (973)344-0424 jobs@theobserver.com
HARRISON 6 rooms, 3 BR’s, LR, DR, Kitchen, C/A, Near Trains, 1 Parking space. No Pets/Smoking. $1700 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Laundry on Premises. Available March 1st (201)486-7807 38W03
KEARNY Arlington Section First floor in brand new apartment 1 BR, 3 Rooms. $1600 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Single or Couple preferred. No Pets/ Smoking. Available Now Call between 10am 7pm (201)997-2341
KEARNY Studio, $850 + 1 months security. Utilities included. No Pets/ Smoking. Available Now (201)667-1427 39W01
N.ARLINGTON 1st. Fl. 2 BR’s, H/W Floors, Walking distance to schools & Supermarket, all public transportation and NY bus. Available Now (201) 657-2119 37W03
LYNDHURST N.ARLINGTON 1st Floor. 1 BR, EIK LR, Bathroom. LYNDHURST 1 bedroom $1300 +1 months secuon 2nd floor, H/HW in- rity. Heat/HW included. cluded. Small pets OK. Call Carlos (201)988-7536 $1,230/mth plus 1 mth 38W03 security. Available March 1st. (201)575-5270 38W03
NUTLEY
KEARNY LR. Modern EIK. BR. $1,275 + 1.5 months N.ARLINGTON security. H/HW included. close to all TRANS. Avail. NUTLEY 2fl 1 BR , 3 HARRISON 2nd floor. 2 March 1st (201)906-5153 N.ARLINGTON Newly rooms $1,175 + 1.5 BR.EIK.LR. $1550 + 1.5 38W03 renovated. 2 BR. LR. EIK. 1 Months security. Utilimonths security. Utilities Bath. $1450 + 1.5 months ties not included. Freshly separate. No Pets/Smoksecurity. Plus utilities. painted. Move in condiing. Available Now. Call or No Pets/Smoking. Close 2 bedroom to Transportation. Call tion. Close to NY transtext (862)220-0239 39W03 KEARNY $1,450 + 1.5 months. between 9am - 9pm portation. No pets. No smoking. (973)517-7517 Utilities separate. security (201)966-8095 38W03 37W03 No pets/Smoking Leave a detailed message (973) HARRISON 2nd floor. 2 951-7385 38W03 BRs. EIK. LR. 1 Bath. New Kitchen appliances. H/W N.ARLINGTON Studio floors, $1,400 + 1 month KEARNY 1,150/mth plus 1 mth NUTLEY 4 rooms, 1st security. Utilities sepa1 & 2 BR APT. HT/HW rate. 1 yr. lease. No pets/ included. $1,250 to $1650 security H/HW included floor, 2 bedrooms, $1750 + 1.5 Months security. Parking available Laun- + 1.5 Months security. smoking. Avl. March 1st See Super, 6 Wooddry on premise. No pets/ Freshly painted. Newer (973) 207-5229 39W03 land Ave.Kearny Apt. 1 Smoking Close to trans- carpets and flooring. (201)892-8035 portation. Single or cou- Close to NY transportafor appointment ple preferred Available tion. Move in condition. 39W03 KEARNY March 1st (201)997-2341 No pets. No smoking. Call between 10am-7pm Call Tom leave a message KEARNY 2nd Floor. For 38W03 (973)517-7517 37W03 a professional working KEARNY 2nd fl. 2 BR, couple.1 BR. 1 Bath. LR. Modern EIK, Bath, LR, DR, EIK. $1600 + 1.5 months $1,500 + 1 1/2 months security. Utilities sepaWhat an ad on security. H/HW included. rate. No Pets/Smoking. Craigslist gets you ... No smoking/Pets. Close Available February 1st. • A free ad | to Trans. Credit check. (201)486-1794 38W03 • No-shows Avl. Now. (201)747-0303
HARRISON 2nd floor. 5 38W03 rooms. 2 BR. LR. EIK. DR. C/A & Heating.$1500 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No smok- KEARNY Arlington Secing/Pets. Available March tion. Large modern 3BD, 2 1st (973)650-5858 38W03 full baths LR DR large EIK 1700 sq.ft. Central A/C. Access to laundry room W/D hook up. 1 parking HARRISON 2nd Floor. 2 space on driveway, 1st BR. LR. EIK. $1350 + 1 floor. Utilities included. 1/2 months security. Util- No pets. No smoking. Askities included. No Pets/ ing $2,450/month. 1 1/2 Smoking. Close to TRANS. month security. Must see. Couple preferred Avl. Now Avl now. Contact text or Feb 15th (862)208-8565 voicemail 201 725-5116 37W03 Please text 37W03
KEARNY 6 family home, Newly Renovated. 2ND fl. 2 BR, $1,300/month, HT included. 1 1/2 months security. No pets. No Smoking Avl. Feb. 1st. (201) 916-9460 39W03 KEARNY 1 BR APT. HT/HW included. $1,250/month. See Super, 654 Elm St, Kearny. Call Sofia after 3pm(201)998-3516 for appointment. 39W03
• Headaches | • People from other regions of NJ • scammers What an Observer Classified gets you ... • local readership | • local buyers | • Access to thousands of people who support our advertisers • Placement in a 133-year-old newspaper (and on www.theobserver.com)and our paper that readers are loyal each and every week. Truth is, nothing can compare to our Classified Section. Why take the risk with Craigslist? Try The Observer’s Classifieds ... and see results right away. Call us today to place your ad. (201) 991-1600
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
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The Observer | www.theobserver.com
Observer Classifieds
WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM | THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2018
The Obsever is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — no billing. Call 201-991-1600 to place an ad. The Observer cannot accept legal advertising.
The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Credit for errors will not be granted after the next week’s publication. $10 for minimal changes. No refunds once ad is taken and C.C charged. ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PRE-PAID Deadline for Classifieds Employment/ Business Monday 12:00 PM All others Monday by 3:00 PM. E-mail Ads to classified@theobserver.com.
ROOM FOR RENT KEARNY In home. $600 + 1 months security. H/HW included. Shared Kitchen & Bathroom. Female Preferred. No Smoking/Pets Available Now (201)7370587 (201)951-4311 37W03
FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT NEWARK Large furnished room for rent, for men only. Two blocks from Newark Penn Station (111 mulberry st). Rent is $650. Deposit $650. Please call:973704-6232 39W03
ESTATE SALE RUTHERFORD 95 West Pierrepont, Rutherford Saturday February 6, 9am - 3pm February 7th, 9am-2pm 87 plus years of items. Bedroom/Dining room set. Kitchen items. Electronics, glassware, clothes, much more.
TESTIMONIAL G & R Builders and Roofing has been advertising with The Observer for many years. This is what he had to say. I am certain I will continue to do so for many years to come. I get many calls from our ad in the Classified Section and we estimate that of those calls, at least 90% of them we actually do business with. That’s an incredible percentage and because of it, we don’t advertise anywhere else anymore because there is no need. The investment of paying for an ad in The Observer has paid off in ways I never thought possible. Be patient and you’ll see — advertising with The Observer long-term works. — Gilbert Rosado Owner of G&R
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT NORTH ARLINGTON RIDGE ROAD OFFICE 3 Room Office suite. Parking available $850 + utilities. Great Space. Owner (201)509-6965 37W03
39W01
GARAGE FOR RENT
WAREHOUSE SPACE FOR RENT
KEARNY Near Belleville Tpke. $150.00/mth For storage or car parking Available Now. Call for more info (908)240-8055
Small warehouse space available, Belleville area. Reasonable rent. Immediate occupancy. Safe and secure. Call 201-315-4980
39W03
38W04
PLUMBING & HEATING
ROOFING/SIDING
LANDSCAPING & DESIGN
Courageous Plumbing HVAC LLC LIC. # 11103 • Plumbing • (town inspections), violations corrected, steam boilers and hot water boilers, oil to gas conversions, Sewer Drain Cleaning, excavations. Visa & MC, Finances up to 24 payments, no interest (201) 206-4845
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Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC
JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry. Hot Water Heaters. Fully Ins. Lic# 165
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Roofing - SidingRepairsSame day service Same phone number for 20 Years
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CLEANING SERVICES NEAT-NIK CLEANING I clean, using my own supplies. Reasonable, Reliable, Respectful. Call Elsie at (973)743-2039 38W03
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HEATING & COOLING Courageous Plumbing HVAC LLC LIC .#11103 • Air Conditioning • Hot Air Furnaces • Central Air, Humidifier, UV Light, Duct Cleaning,Visa & Master Card, Finances offer with up to 24 payments, no interest (201) 206-4845
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erickconstructionnj.com Free estimates - Fully insured Lic#13VH04302300 10W54
• Concrete • Brick work • Steps • Stone Walls • Tiles • Painting • Sheetrock • Drywall • Plastering ALL types of Masonry Free Estimates (973) 943-2254 38W06
PAINTERS
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CLASS ACT PAINTING *Interior * Exterior * Powerwashing * Sheetrock * Tile
201-988-2741 email: classactpainting@comcast.net
Fully Insured 38W03
Washington School announces honor students The following students at Washington School, Kearny, made the honor roll in the first marking period of the 2020-21 academic year: PRINCIPAL’S HONORS Grade 6 – Bilal Abdou, Jaelynn Achong, Victor Alicea-Mendez, Isabella Almanzar, Isabella Alvarez Ruiz, Alexa Antunes, Maximus Araujo, Eva Bonavota, Michael Bosveld, Casey Brown, Zachary Byrne, Bradley Cepin, John Corbett, Jake Cunha, Angelina Farinhas, Cayden Febo, Anlly Gonzalez Bonilla, Abaigeal Granelli, Matthew Kubowicz, Deanna Leonetti, Julie Leroy, Taraji Mays, Colin McKenna, Alanize Mendoza, Algeline Ross Mendoza, Brendon More, Hailey Paris, Pedro Pinto, Sebastian Roa, Kaden Santos and Anthony Serans. Grade 5 – Gabriel Bernardes, Daniel Bystrowski, Steven Cedeno, Delilah Ferreira, Sophia Garzon, Joseph Iorio, Peter Kintos, Xaydii Mendoza, Juliet Olsen, Matthew Peldunas and Jake Weber. Grade 4 - Lilia Bonavota, Abigail Buchanan, Luis Cadaval DeMatos, Gianna Covello, Lucas
DeAlmeida, Lexi Duarte, Aralyn Hernandez, Layla Hernandez, Mia Jimenez, Euan Lim, Sophia Lima, Anna Matos, Samantha Ribeiro, Emily Rodriguez, Jayden Santos, Eva Sha Valentina Ugarte and Matthew Whitehead. HONORS Grade 6 – Cristiano Alves, Jaymie Cambrelen, Ashley DeAlmeida, Brandon Martinez, Ameliana Mendoza, Megan More, Madison Rodriguez, Isabella Silva and Vivian Torres. Grade 5 Khalil Abad, Gabriella Desa, Felipe Ferreira, Jasmin GalarzaVele, Tyler Gomes, Nathaniel Jimenez, Kevin Kinsley, Casey Logue, James Mara, Tyler Olechowski, Shilah Olsen, Dania Ortiz, Liam Ortiz, Lizzie Reyes, Galia Santander, Michael Szymanski and Jacob Tryak. Grade 4 – Yasser Abad, Daniel Balboa, Jayden Cabrera, Kaelyn Carlen, Leah Carranza, Parker Carvalho, Cora Espana, William Franchino, Emma Gomes, Samantha Kingalahua, Adrian Rodriguez, Lucas Serodio, Brenna Taylor and Julia Tryak.
(201) 906-2422 36W06
G&R BUILDERS Roofing,
Siding, Windows/Doors, Decks, Gutter Cleaning Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Carpentry
FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts
(201) 893-0656 Lic. #13VH02536200 36W06
Kevin’s Affordable Painting Sheetrocking, Plastering, Floors, Doors and more. Very neat and clean. You will be happy with our service and prices. Refrences available Senior Discounts Call for the best price (201) 565-6393. 35W06
To place a classified ad, please call 201.991.1600
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The Observer | www.theobserver.com
the fall, he’s not a bad basketball player at all. “He’s the team’s spark plug,” Continued from Page 14 McGuire said. “He gets the team going. He’s an aggressive varsity) kids who were asking kid who loves to play.” to take the step up. They’ve Lembo was the team’s sixth been slipped into starting man last season. roles. We’ll see how it goes.” Another returning player McGuire was asked having is 5-foot-10 senior guard only two weeks of practice to Sean Mayer. Both Mayer and prepare for the season because Lembo will alternate being the of the COVID-19 regulations team’s point guard this season. was going to affect his team. “I like the luxury of having “Well, it’s affecting everytwo point guards,” McGuire one,” McGuire said. “After a said. “They’re both strong couple of days of practice, we ball handlers. Sean was the got into things pretty well.” starting point guard last year Leading the returnees is and he had to go through some junior guard Johnny Lembo. growing pains. But he develWhile the 5-foot-9 Lembo oped nicely into our captain might be known as “Johnny and leader.” Football” when he’s a quarterSenior Kevin Dmochowski back for the Golden Bears in is a 6-foot forward.
LYNDHURST
“He’s like our jack-of-alltrades,” McGuire said. “He benefitted from people missing time and moved his way up. Incredibly, he was the seventh man on his freshman team, but worked his tail off and he’s now starting varsity. That’s what hard work does. He’s a well rounded player. He annoys teams defensively. You can see what last year did for him in terms of confidence. Now, he’s a team captain. He’s one of the hardest workers I have.” Ricky Rainey is a 5-foot-10 junior forward. “I don’t know how many points he’ll put up, but somehow the ball just finds him,” McGuire said of Rainey. “Somehow, someway, he gets the ball. And when he
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
does, the ball goes in. Unconventional is the best way to describe how he plays.” Carson Rodrigues is a 6-foot junior swing player. “He’s a good shooter,” McGuire said. “He has a deadon shot. He’s a smart, intelligent player. I’m going to rely on him to score for us and use his brains to help win games.” Anthony Maldonado is a 5-foot-10 junior guard. “He’s a little ahead of his game defensively instead of offensively,” McGuire said. “He gets in opponents’ faces and can be extremely annoying.” Luciano Todino is a 6-foot-2 senior forward who did not play basketball last season, but he’s returned this year to make an impact. “He’s a big, strong kid who
gives us a physical presence inside,” McGuire said. “We can run stiff for him inside because he can score. He’s also strong enough to move people off the block.” Sebastian Almeida is a 6-foot-4 senior center who was a track athlete last year. “We liked him when he was a sophomore, but he wanted to run track,” McGuire said. “But he’s an athletic kid who is using that athletic body inside for us. He’s very long and has opened some eyes we weren’t expecting.” The Golden Bears will definitely be a team to watch in that new fangled division No. 4 with Rutherford, Secaucus, Weehawken, North Arlington and Harrison.
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Payment Example: $9.20 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 10-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 1.990% will result in 120 payments of $919.69. Payment Example: $6.43 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 1.990% will result in 180 payments of $643.05. Payment Example: $5.24 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 20-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 2.375% will result in 240 payments of $523.83. Actual monthly payment may be higher because example does not include applicable property taxes, fees, insurance premiums or other related costs. Annual percentage rate (APR) based on $100,000.00 loan with a 10-year or 15-year amortization term. Financing on owner occupied residential 1-4 family properties located in Essex, Union, and Hudson Counties. Minimum finance charge of $455.00. Owner occupied rate. New loans only. Rates and annual percentage rates are based on 80% loan to value with 20% equity or 20% down payment. Rates and annual percentages are effective as of the publication date of this ad and are subject to change. Please speak with our Mortgage Department for additional terms and conditions that may apply. Subject to credit approval. Other rates and programs are available.
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To place a classified ad, call 201.991.1600
Wednesday, Februarty 3, 2021
MIDTOWN
Continued from Page 1 will have opportunities to interview for positions at CVS. Other pharmacy employees, including technicians, will have opportunities for transfers to other departments within ShopRite, if desired. Belleville ShopRite, meanwhile, sent letters to all of its pharmacy customers. In it, they thank the customers for their loyalty. “We deeply appreciate the trust you have placed in us over the years to meet your prescription needs and assure you that your prescription records will be in good hands going forward,” the letter read. “… Be assured that ShopRite remains committed to delivering a wide assortment of healthy, affordable foods and wholesome meal solutions with the exceptional value and service you expect.” WHAT IF I DON’T WANT TO USE CVS? WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS? Now, with all of this in mind, customers who don’t want their records sent to CVS — and who would prefer they be sent elsewhere — may have them sent anywhere else. CVS reportedly paid Wakefern for access to its customer data and pharmacy records. But that
23
The Observer | www.theobserver.com doesn’t mean you’ve got to use them. In Kearny, one of those alternates is Midtown Pharmacy, at the southwest corner of Kearny and Midland avenues (581 Kearny Ave. is the actual address.) In anticipation of the ShopRite pharmacy closures — also keep in mind, the grocery stores, themselves, are not closing — The Observer spoke with Dominick Zinna, the longtime owner of Midtown. Zinna says it is times like these when larger-scale pharmacies shutter that customers often realize that locally owned pharmacies are a much better option, for a myriad of reasons. The first — Midtown will take care of getting your active scripts and history transferred for you. “Just give us a call, and we’ll take care of the rest,” Zinna said. “It’s that easy. We’ll contact the pharmacy and have the records sent to us.” (They’ll do this with any pharmacy where your records are, not just ShopRite.) Customers who might prefer to get the ball rolling on their own may also do so by contacting their current pharmacy to direct the records to Midtown, as well. Still, it’s not just about the ease of transferring the records. There are plenty of other reasons.
How about this one, for instance. Since parking near Midtown can be, on occasion, challenging, it turns out not to be that big a challenge. “If for any reason customers can’t get to us, we’ll get to them,” Zinna said. “Not only do we deliver prescriptions once they’re filled, we’ll also come to pick up the (written) prescriptions. It’s door-todoor service, both ways.” This incredibly rare service is 100% free. There are no hidden fees. Nothing. There is absolutely no cost in either direction. And in a world where deliveries are no longer cheap (think of all the fees you pay just to get a small food order these days), this is an incredibly beneficial service, especially for the elderly, for those who do not want to go out in a COVID-19 world and for those who do not have vehicles. Now if pricing is a concern — regardless of whether you have prescrip-
tion coverage — Zinna says Midtown will work with customers to get you the best-possible price. “We do our best to remain competitive,” Zinna said, while noting his staff is well versed with insurance and Medicare issues. “We’ll counsel anyone who has concerns on how it all works, especially with Medicare Part D.” Among the many other personalized services are medical equipment availability, flu shots and immunizations (COVID-19 shots are not available presently), travel vaccines, counseling for those with diabetes, specialty medicines and flavoring for children’s medications. They also offer over-thecounter pain medicines, cold & allergy relief, vitamins, oral health products, feminine hygiene items, first-aid products, contraceptive aids, hospital-grade breast pumps, custom-fitted diabetic footwear, compression stockings, pet
supplies and so much more. If you need a quick gift for someone, Midtown is a local Yankee Candle distributor, has an array of greeting cards, jewelry, Russel Stover candies and more. So while the closure of ShopRite pharmacies might have seemed like a royal pain, the truth is, it really isn’t, especially in a world where pharmacies like Midtown exist. Why not give it a shot? Contact Midtown Pharmacy by calling (201) 991-3454. The fax number is (201) 9911319. Send an email to midtown581@gmail.com. At the store’s website, www.midtownpharmacynj.com, you’ll find ways to refill prescriptions and other pharmacy services, an e-option to get your prescriptions transferred, health news, COVID-19-related information and so much more. The pharmacy is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., weekdays; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays; and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sundays.
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Wednesday, February 3, 2021
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