Issuu

Wednesday, 28 April 2021

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Vol. CXXXIII, No. 51

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS Nutley High School softball team off to a perfect start to 2021. See page 9

BELLEVILLE • BLOOMFIELD • EAST NEWARK • HARRISON • KEARNY • LYNDHURST • NORTH ARLINGTON • NUTLEY

STREET YOGA

Judge: Candidate will not be on the June ballot By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

A Mertz Avenue in Belleville was transformed into an open-air yoga studio for about 50 people who spent part of their day April 14 holding poses. The Street Yoga Under the Cherry Blossoms event was led by Yogi Michelle Petersen. The public and officials took part in the annual event, which was canceled in 2020 because of COVID-19.

Hudson County Superior Court judge has rejected Second Ward Kearny Council candidate Alexis Campos’s and mayoral hopeful Sydney J. Ferreira’s motion that Campos be allowed on the June primary ballot. In a decision reached Wednesday, April 21, Judge Jeffrey R. Jablonski issued a four-pronged brief ruling by dismissing the aforementioned complaint. He wrote: “The relief sought by means of the plaintiff’s order to show cause be and is hereby denied. The plaintiff’s complaint is dismissed. The prior

restraints as to the printing of the ballots for the June 8, 2021, election are hereby dissolved. This court shall forward this order to the parties and upload it to e-courts.” In the original complaint submitted to the court, a copy of which was obtained by The Observer, Campos and Ferreira made several sweeping allegations about Mayor Alberto G. Santos — who initiated the challenge to Campos’s candidacy — and Town Clerk Patricia Carpenter — whose job it was to rule on the challenge, as prescribed by law — that Jablonski clearly did not buy. Acting on his own behalf before (without the represenSee JUDGE, Page 8

Despite court’s ruling, Campos will run as a write-in By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

he Primary Election of 2021 in the Town of Kearny continues to get more bizarre by the minute. Despite being ruled ineligible by the town clerk and a judge in Hudson County Superior Court, Alexis Campos, a former Democratic candidate for the nomination for a seat in the

town’s Second Ward, will forge ahead as a write-in candidate, the head of her ticket, mayoral hopeful Sydney J. Ferreira, said in a video posted to social media and in a worded news release, on April 21. “A few days ago, Alexis’s grandmother asked why her name was written on signs all over town. Her proud father tried to explain that Alexis was running for town council,” Ferreira said. “Not really under-

DECISION 2021 standing, her 97-year-old Portuguese grandmother exclaimed, ‘My granddaughter is going to work for the United States.’ “Alexis will hold onto that proud moment, as she continues this jour-

ney to seek the town council seat in the Second Ward, and we will be there by her side every step of the way. She is a lifelong resident and has every right to seek a seat in the ward where she currently resides. By disqualifying Alexis from appearing on the ballot and depriving her family of that great honor, they may have disenfranchised all of the residents See WRITE-IN, Page 5

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See page 15 in our april 21st issue for part one & page 16 In this week’s issue for part two! voting ballot on page 10

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Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Academy Award-winning EP appears on Applause

By JoAnn Barton Special to The Observer

pplause Radio Show (ARS) always strives to have amazing guests on. However, never have I had guests on ARS who were nominated for Academy Awards (Oscars) and would have them on ARS, the night before the Academy Awards. If that was not special, they actually won! I have had guests on in the past who have either won or have been nominated for awards in their specialty in the entertainment industry but never have I had a guest on ARS the night

before the ceremony and then win. So I truly feel honored. Sarah Schroeder-Matzkin is one of the executive producers of the movie, “The Trial of the Chicago 7.” To say she was excited about being nominated for several Oscars would be an understatement. I was excited for her as well. Both Matzkin and her company Double Infinity Productions walked away with six wins. I must see the movie now to see what I have missed. The year 2021 is getting off to an incredible start for Matzkin. She was not only nominated and then won Academy Awards, she has a

Schroeder-Matzkin new movie coming out very soon, and a new album/CD. Always a writer, she was asked to sing the closing credit song to the movie “Not

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Alone.” The track, “Look to the Stars,” has a sentimental message for the world and is a message of hope. The new movie is a psychological thriller and the trailer looks particularly good. You may see it for yourself on IMDB. You may also find the music videos on YouTube. All of Matzkin’s songs are very deep, both lyrically and in the music itself. Her vocals are beautiful, and she sings like a bird, very pretty. The album/CD “Face Me” may be found on all online music streaming services. Congratulations to Sarah and to all at her production company. ••• A week of great music ensued last week. Composer Michael Whalen joined me April 19 with his new album/CD “Future Shock.” Whalen composes an instrumental collection full of synthesizers with great melodies and hooks. When listening, I could not help but hear future use in movie scores or commercials. That is what he does. He has written jingles for many commercials and scored well over 800 pieces for that purpose. His talent is overwhelming. The release date was April 23. Want to hear music that may wind up in your future favorite movie or commercial? Check out “Future Shock.” ••• On April 25, I had the pleasure of hanging out with singer/songwriter Tracey Coryell. Coryell is the widow of legendary jazz guitarist Larry Coryell. Larry, who died in 2017, had been to Ireland in 2016 and got together with some phenomenal musicians to lay down some tracks. He would return to the States and continue working on his music. The plan was to release a new album; unfortunately, these plans would change with his death. After several years and some coaxing from family and friends, his wife would have the music mixed and mastered, preparing it for a release for the world to hear, April 28. I played three songs from

the album, “Morning of the Carnival,” “The Last Peavey” and “369.” All wer fabulous jazz pieces. Carnival is a bossa nova classic that is a jazz standard performed by many greats, but none sound like the way Coryell can make it sound. The latter of the two songs are both originals by Coryell. While listening, I imagined him getting lost in playing these songs. I felt how into it he was and felt the emotion behind his playing. There is some crazy finger work in these songs, with his running up and down the fret board on both the bass and the guitar. Coryell is a jazz legend and known as the godfather of jazz fusion. All the songs on this album are fantastic and I am thrilled I was given the opportunity to play it in the States for the first time and the fact that it is Coryell’s last work before his passing, is an even bigger honor. I have never been a huge fan of jazz, but I have grown to love it with all the jazz artists who have been on ARS. Each time they join me on the show, I enjoy it even more. And every time I have a jazz artist on the show, they seem to come at the right time. The music soothes me, and I just sit back and listen. Relaxing for sure. Larry’s Last Swing with Ireland is a must listen for jazz lovers. Thank you to Tracey for bringing Larry back to life in music. ••• To listen to our full conversations and to check out the music, listen at www. applauseradioshow.com and you can always stream, purchase, download all of these songs online as well. This week look for actress Ruta Lee, as we discuss her career and her new book: “Consider Your Ass Kissed” along with actress/author Joyce Bulifant on April 28. Overly excited to welcome back one of the kindest and sweetest guys in show business, as actor Michael Cole from “the Mod Squad” joins me April 30. Don’t forget to check out our calendar for our May guests.

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

KPD: Student, 15, had virtual-learning screen name: ‘I will bomb KHS’

By Capt. Tim Wagner Kearny Police Department

n April 14, Sgt. Peter Gleason, Det. Mike Gontarczuk and Officer Harold Azurdia were dispatched to Kearny High School to meet with school administrators. With school being conducted virtually — at the tine — due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students were utilizing computer-based learning platforms to participate in classes from home. The administrators reported an unidentified student in a virtual physical education class signed in to “Kahoot,” a computer application used for educational purposes, with a screen name “I will bomb KHS.” Det. Gontarczuk conducted a follow-up cybercrime investigation and found other screen names, including “bomb khs,” “teacher a h0 e” and “cant catch me;).” (sic) On April 15, he identified the KHS student who made the threat as a 15-year-old boy, a resident of Kearny. The boy later confessed and was charged as a juvenile delinquent with terroristic

threats and cyber harassment. The student was released into the custody of parents, pending a court appearance. On April 20 at 9:30 p.m., Officers Mathew Lopez and Sean Podolski were patrolling near Passaic and Johnston avenues as part of a statewide distracted-driver enforcement grant. Officer Lopez watched as a black Volvo sped by obviously in excess of the 25 miles per hour speed limit. As Officer Lopez was closing the gap between his car and the Volvo, he noticed the Volvo’s license plate light was not illuminated (You may be urged to reflect as Brando’s Col. Kurtz did, “The Horror.”). Officer Lopez pulled over the Volvo in East Newark. Driver Isaiah P. Ketchens, 28, of Newark, told the officer that his driver’s license was most likely suspended and then he showed his Department of Corrections inmate identification. A motor vehicle commission computer check revealed the temporary license plate affixed to the Volvo was registered to a Toyota RAV4. The Volvo was assigned a different license plate, which it did not bear. Further computer checks

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showed Ketchens’s driver license was indeed suspended. He was also wanted by North Carolina authorities for a probation violation related to the possession of a weapon of mass destruction. Editor’s note: In North Carolina, aside from the obvious, weapons of mass destruction include shotguns with barrels 18-inches or shorter. We’re unsure what this guy’s WMD of choice was, however, but since he was not extradited, we presume it wasn’t a bomb. Ketchens was arrested and charged with driving

with a suspended license, unlicensed driving, careless driving, fictitious license plate and inadequate license plate illumination. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety declined to extradite from New Jersey, so Ketchens was later released with his summonses. On April 16 at 6:45 p.m., Dets. Dave Bush and Mike Andrews found Braulio A. Lopez, 24, of Kearny, getting his ears lowered at an East Newark barber shop. Lopez See KPD, Page 15

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Opinion....................................................................................Page 6

Obituaries...............................................................................Page 13

Sports......................................................................................Page 9

Classiﬁeds ....................................................................... Pages 17-19

Health & Wellness Directory...............................................Page 11

Business Directory.................................................................Page 19

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Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Deal will bring Union County inmates to Essex Jail By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

nmates housed in the Union County Jail will soon be moved to the Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark, thanks to an innovative agreement between the two counties, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. and the Union County Board of Commissioners announced last week. Plans to enter into a memorandum of agreement in which the Essex County Correctional Facility on Doremus Avenue in Newark will house the Union County inmates would provide Essex County with about $11.3 million in revenue annually, were announced last week. The plan will allow Union County to almost completely shut down its jail, though it would still be used as a processing location before inmates are ultimately transferred from Elizabeth to Newark. Officials in both counties say the move is being made because Union County’s inmate population

has seriously dropped over the last decade, with a current population of about 300. “All levels of government are facing tremendous fiscal pressures and it’s imperative that we all look for ways to pool resources, reduce expenses and generate new revenue while providing the same high quality of service to our constituents. I want to thank Gov. Phil Murphy for supporting this bi-county agreement and our partners from Union County who worked with us to reach an agreement that truly benefits the taxpayers of both of our counties,” DiVincenzo said. “The bail reform policies enacted by New Jersey before the pandemic resulted in fewer people being held at county correctional facilities. This partnership is a great opportunity for Union County to find an alternative way to house their inmates without having to operate a costly facility and for Essex County to maximize the capacity of our accredited complex and generate additional revenue.” Under the terms of the agreement, Essex County would house an average daily population of 300 inmates from

DiVincenzo Union County. Union County would pay Essex a daily rate of $104 per inmate per day housed at the ECCF. Essex County will provide video conferencing booths for Union County to conduct remote hearings and interviews with Union County inmates. Union County would be responsible for transporting Union County inmates to the Union County Courthouse for in-person hearings and for transporting Union County inmates back to Union County when they are released. The agreement would be for five years with an opportunity to extend

the partnership. “The plan to enter into this memorandum of agreement with Union County, which would add revenue for Essex County and allow appropriate use of Essex County’s most modern facility, is one that I support. As changing conditions result in a smaller population of inmates, it only makes sense for counties to work together to ensure both fiscal and social responsibility. The proposed agreement will assist both counties financially and allow Union County’s inmates a facility in a neighboring county where the hardship to visiting families will be minimized and access to attorneys will not be compromised,” Essex County Commissioner and President Wayne Richardson said. Corrections officers who currently work for the Union County Jail have the opportunity to interview with Essex County or the NJ State Department of Corrections through the Inter-Governmental Transfer Program. It is not immediately clear how many employees — if any — will remain in the Union County facility.

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WRITE-IN

Continued from Page 1 who signed her petition, but they will not discourage us or her family. I urge our supporters, who live in the Second Ward to write in Alexis Campos under my name on the ballot.” But does she have “every right” to seek the seat, as Ferreira says? Judge Jeffrey R. Jablonski and Town Clerk Patricia Carpenter both have already said “no,” she doesn’t. And Mayor Alberto G. Santos, Ferreira’s opponent in the race for the Democratic mayoral nomination, concurs. “The residency law on its face applies equally to all candidacies, whether by

The Observer | www.theobserver.com petition, by write-in or as an independent — objections to a write-in candidacy would be decided by the same court that heard Mr. Ferreira’s and Ms. Campos’s arguments earlier this week,” Santos said. Still, Ferreira borrowed a page from former First Lady Michelle Obama’s playbook to emphasize his desire for Campos to continue campaigning for the seat for which she’s twice been deemed ineligible. “When they go low, we go high,” Ferreira said, quoting from Mrs. Obama’s 2016 Democratic National Convention speech. “We will double our efforts. We will knock on more doors. We will walk more streets. We will meet more residents. We will hand out more brochures. And we (will) install

Campos more signs. No matter what they try with their legal maneuvering, they won’t shut down this movement.” This has all happened after a challenge to Campos’s petition was made by Santos in his capacity as chairman of the local Democratic Party, not as mayor. Citing state election law, he noted that

a candidate for office must live in a “local unit,” or, in this case, a ward, for at least a year before being eligible to run. Carpenter applied the law and disqualified Campos from being on the ballot. But Ferreira and Campos filed a challenge in Hudson County Superior Court, leading to Jablonski’s ruling that Campos was, indeed, ineligible to be a candidate. Campos offered proof of her residency in the Second Ward with a copy of her lease dated August 2020, which would have been two months short of the one-year requirement. But it is voter registration that determines eligibility, according to several election-law experts, and in Campos’s case, that did not occur until March 9,

DECISION 2021 2021. Additionally, despite reportedly moving from the Third Ward to the Second Ward in August 2020, voting records indicate she voted in the November 2020 General Election in her former ward, where representatives are not the same as in the Second Ward. Therefore, in all probability, she would not even be able to run as a non-affiliated candidate in the November 2021 election either. The Observer reached out for further comments from the Ferreira campaign by email, but we didn’t receive a response.

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A Message from the Harrison Water Department: The Harrison Water Dept. will flush hydrants throughout Harrison beginning the week of April 5th 2021. Crews will work Monday through Friday between 9pm and 1am to minimize customer inconvenience. The flushing program is expected to last for about 6 weeks. Ending May 14th 2021. Flushing removes harmless minerals that collect in the water mains. The project is part of the Town routine maintenance program to assure high water quality. Flushing hydrants help to maintain the integrity of the distribution system by keeping the water lines clean. It is also necessary for fire protection because flushing ensures that the hydrants are working properly. During the flushing process, customers may experience low water pressure or discolored water. While the water is safe to drink, customers may prefer to wait until it runs clear before drinking or washing clothes or dishes. Residents with questions or problems can call the Harrison Water Department at 973-268-2468. Website www.townofharrisonnj.com.

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Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL

Tremendous move in Essex County to generate revenue

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

here’s an age-old question asked of politicians that rarely generates a solid answer. It’s in response to how they’ll meet their campaign promise of lowering taxes or keeping them stable. And it is a simple question: How are you going to do this? In Essex County, last week, we got an answer to the question when County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. announced the Essex County Correctional Facility would become home to most inmates who would otherwise have been housed at the Union County Jail. Essex will generate $11+ million a year by accepting around 300 inmates from Union County after they’re processed following arrests. In the last decade, the Union County Jail has seen a sharp decline in its inmate population, from an average-daily high of 1,200 or so inmates to around 300 now. Some of this is attributable to a drop in crime; it is also because of bail reform, which has also allowed the jail to see far fewer inmates accused of petit crimes. So the need to operate a jail in Union County isn’t as necessary as it once was and because of the forward-thinking of the two counties, this agreement was made possible. Fortunately, Essex County will see a significant increase in revenue, a rarity these days. Perhaps the only downfall to this deal is that there are employees at the Union County facility who may lose jobs. However, not all is lost. It’s not completely closing, so it will still need to be staffed for initial processing before inmates are moved to Essex County facility in Newark. And, DiVincenzo says, current employees, including corrections officers, will be able to interview for similar jobs in his county. So while there is a slight downside to the deal, not all is completely lost. We commend all involved in making this deal happen. Most come out winners with it. And perhaps the biggest winners of them all, for a change, are the taxpayers.

LaClair: Knowing facts and obeying rules important mayoral qualities

To the Editor: You are to be commended for running articles that inform the people of facts surrounding the upcoming election in your April 13, 2021, edition. Regarding the ineligibility of the second ward candidate, there is a bigger issue. We now have a mayoral candidate who does not seem to care about the law. He enlisted an ineligible candidate to run on his ticket. A few weeks ago, he expressed support for a local business owner who was prevented from running an event at her place of business,

LETTER TO THE EDITOR because approval of the event would have violated state law. In keeping with his habit of making big promises, he tells everyone that he will change it all. He cannot change it, and if he tried, he would only get us all in trouble. A mayor — a town — has no authority to override state law. If he does that by approving an illegal event, in contract negotiations, or in any other important matter, he could

expose us Kearny taxpayers to legal liability because of his ignorance of or unwillingness to abide by the law. His refusal to answer your questions, or anyone else’s, is also extremely disturbing. It is one thing to have someone saying that he offers change, something else entirely when the change would get us all into trouble. There is a value to experience; but even if someone comes into office with no experience, they must know and respect the law. If they do not, then we pay the price. Paul LaClair Kearny

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he Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online.

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JUDGE

Continued from Page 1 tation of counsel) the court, Ferreira — in written briefs — asked for Campos to be returned to the ballot because by the time the general election came around, he claimed she would have been a resident of the Second Ward for the requisite one-year period. He also claimed Campos moved into the Second Ward in August 2020, though by her own admission, Campos said in an email to Carpenter she didn’t switch her voter registration until March 9, 2021. He also argued, unsuccessfully, that the law,

which requires residency in the “local unit” for a year before being eligible to run, actually meant residency in the “town” for a year and not the individual ward. He also argued, unsuccessfully, that Santos “exerted his authority” over the tenured Carpenter. “This campaign believes that the mayor exerted his authority over the town clerk to place her in the awkward position of taking sides, by deciding to accept his objection, and force our campaign to file or legal action,” Ferreira wrote. “The town clerk should have recused herself as it is a conflict of interest to rule in favor of her employer in his dual role as both mayor

and chairman of the town’s Democratic Party.” However, as was the case just a few weeks ago in neighboring Lyndhurst, it was clear there is no conflict of interest as it is state law requiring municipal clerks to handle matters of electionbased discrepancies. Ferreira also claimed Santos did not provide adequate notice of the objection to the complaint. He also said because Campos moved just “10 blocks” from her residence in the Third Ward to her new home in the Second Ward, that should be enough to place her back on the ballot. “Therefore, we conclude that his attempt to keep Ms. Campos off the ballot is a

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subversion of democracy,” Ferreira wrote in his pro-se complaint. “…Furthermore, he (Santos) is attempting to subdue the will of her fellow residents of the Second Ward, who signed her petition to appear on the ballot and to run to represent them as their councilmember. Lastly, we would like to reiterate that this appears to be a coordinated effort and conspiracy to handicap this campaign in favor of the incumbents.”

THE SANTOS & CARPENTER RESPONSE

Attorney Gregory J. Castano Jr. represented both Santos and Carpenter, the two defendants named in the Ferreira/Campos suit. He argued against nearly every point proffered by the plaintiffs as to why Campos should be returned to the ballot. First, Castano said Santos does not possess the “power to deny” an opponent from running for office, neither as mayor nor as chairman of the local Democratic Party. He also argued, successfully, that the “local unit” is, indeed, the ward itself and not the entire town. Castano also made it clear the mayor has no power to exert over Carpenter. “…the mayor does not have any authority over her because she has tenure in her position. The mayor is not her employer. She was required by state statute to review and pass upon the objections and perhaps, more importantly, she never communicated with the mayor and he never attempted to communicate with her about any of these issues.” He also objected to

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Ferreira’s assertion Santos didn’t provide adequate “notice to the objection to this campaign.” “Plaintiffs cite no support for this novel theory,” Castano wrote. “The objections were filed in accordance with applicable law.” Castano also argued against Ferreira’s accusation that the whole ordeal involved “malicious intent” by the town, the clerk and the mayor. “This accusation is raised only in brief. It is not certified, nor does it have any other support. Moreover, it is refuted in … Ms. Carpenter’s certification.” Castano concluded his written argument stating that even if the November election date were the one to be used to determine a year’s residency in the Second Ward, it still wouldn’t satisfy the one-year requirement. “…Plaintiff would still not satisfy the one-year requirement because voting records conclusively demonstrate Ms. Campos voted from a different ward on Nov. 3, 2020. …Perhaps most importantly, they offer no explanation as to why Ms. Campos voted from a different ward in the Nov. 3, 2020, election if she was really living in the Second Ward as of Sept. 1, 2020. And while it’s not yet clear whether Jablonski did so, Castano asked the court to strike from the official record the terms “coordinated efforts,” “subversion of democracy,” “conspiracy” etc., “which appear to have been made solely for political theater.” The Observer’s Kevin Canessa may be reached at kc@theobserver.com. Feedback is welcome.

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

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Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Stoeckel stokes Maroon Raiders to sizzling 4-0 softball start The 2020 high school softball season was going to be a solid one for the Maroon Raiders of Nutley High School. All of the pieces were in place. The Maroon Raiders had unparalleled senior leadership, exceptional talent at every position and dedication throughout the roster that made veteran head coach Luann Zullo’s life extremely easy. But then, fate wasn’t kind. The COVID-19 pandemic put an end to the season before it began. End of the happy times along Franklin Avenue. “It was really unfortunate,” Zullo said. “The entire program suffered for it. The leaders we had were incredible. I really think we would have had a very good team, even more than wins and losses. The leaders brought the entire team together.” Senior captains Jamell Quiles and Briana Cruz were the leaders, but the team also had three fouryear program members Alexa Hergenhan, Isabella Fogle and Cecelia Mielnicki that helped with the leadership. “They understood the program and what it was all about to be a part of it,” Zullo said. “It was unfortunate for those kids to not have the chance to finish

out their careers the right way. We had big expectations for that team.” Well, it’s a new year and a new chapter for Nutley’s softball program. The Maroon Raiders started off the 2021 season in fine fashion, winning their first four games last week. “We have a nice mix of returnees and youth,” Zullo said. “I think the junior class was ready to go and it was hard for the younger kids to keep up.” Zullo knows that the recipe for success in high school softball is quite an easy one. “Everybody knows that pitching is such a big part to winning in softball,” Zullo said. “If you have good pitching, it can keep you in games.” Well, the Raiders don’t have just good pitching. They have spectacular pitching coming from junior Fallyn Stoeckel. Stoeckel has been so totally brilliant in the opening stages of the season. She has pitched every inning thus far, striking out an astounding 53 batters in just 30 innings pitched, allowing just 10 hits, surrendered just seven walks and two earned runs. She’s posted three shutouts already in four starts. Her See VIEW, Page 11

Sorce like a chess master with his Belleville baseball bunch By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com The Belleville High School baseball team has a very deep roster in 2021. And it’s a bunch of Buccaneers that veteran head coach Joe Sorce plans on using every single game. “We’re a mixed bag,” Sorce said. “It’s a bit of a challenge. We have only two seniors who had significant playing time two years ago. Not having last season (wiped out due to the COVID-19 pandemic) and with only four scrimmages before we started, we felt we had to find the strength and weaknesses of this team.” So Sorce decided to use the Internet to his benefit, conducting Zoom meetings with his players. “We had about 11 virtual meetings,” Sorce said. “We spent that time talking to the kids, implementing concepts, going over signs. It made the learning curve easier. We put a lot in during those meetings. I think the kids all benefitted from them. I think we were able to hit the ground running a little when we got on the practice field because of the virtual meetings.” Mother Nature also helped the Buccaneers. “We had some great weather,” Sorce said. “We were able to have some good practices and good scrimmages. We felt that the weather was beneficial to us.” Sorce’s deep roster has also helped tremendously. “We might not have that one pitcher who can go seven innings,” Sorce said. “But we have a good group of guys who can go strong for four, five innings. We just have to put all the pieces in place.” Almost like a chess master wondering what piece to move next, whether it’s the pawn, rook or bishop. The Buccaneers started off

Photo by Jim Hague

The Belleville baseball team has a lot of interesting pieces for head coach Joe Sorce (back row, far left) to work with. Front row, from left, Joseph Abramson, Gabriel Mercado and Jason Miranda. Back row, from left, are Sorce, Brandon Ramirez, Adiel DeLeon, Anthony Cecere, Christian Dominguez and assistant coach John Kondel.

the season strong, collecting emotional come-from-behind wins against Cedar Grove and Newark Academy, while falling to a very strong Verona squad. “I like what I’ve seen so far,” Sorce said. “We’ve scored 19 runs in three games. We won two very close games (defeating Cedar Grove, 8-7, after trailing, 7-0 and defeating Newark Academy 9-7). We have a lot of pieces to play with. In order to be successful, I need to be able to manage the kids.” So on any given game day, Sorce will bring as many as 16 players to the varsity game and sending the rest to the junior varsity level. “The kids understand,” Sorce said. “They have to be ready for anything. We have been playing anywhere from 11 to 13 kids in a game. It’s juggling those kids, mix and match, depending on the situation. The kids know what their roles are and they understand how they are being used.” Senior Anthony Cecere is one of the top pitchers and has earned a win in each of the Buccaneers’ two victories,

despite not having started either game. “He’s our hardest thrower,” Sorce said. “He has a very good fastball. We’re still trying to figure out the best way to use him. He’s pitched in all three games and won two of them.” Cecere is also the Buccaneers’ centerfielder when he’s not on the mound. Senior Joe Abramson has been another dependable hurler. “He’s a good strike thrower,” Sorce said of Abramson. Senior Brandon Ramirez is another hard thrower. “He has a solid fastball,” Sorce said of Ramirez, who is also the Bucs’ main first baseman. The rest of the pitching staff consists of a solid junior class. Mike Napolitano has been the starter in two of the three Buccaneer games. “I like the way he’s throwing the ball,” Sorce said. Colin Cook is another junior righty. “He has a lot of upside,” Sorce said of Cook. Andre Barroso is another See BELLEVILLE, Page 10

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constitutes all over. “Those are the main guys who will see game action,” Continued from Page 9 Sorce said. “We know that we’re going to use two, three, junior with talent. maybe even four pitchers “He’s a solid strike thrower,” every game. We don’t have Sorce said. “I think we’re that one guy to run out there going to use him out of the and get us seven innings. We bullpen.” have to piece it all together.” Victor Dian is another junior The Buccaneers’ main who has a lot of potential. catcher is junior Emmanuel Dian is a very impressive look- “E.J.” Molina. ing hurler. “He’s a solid defensive “I do think he has a lot of catcher with a good arm,” potential,” Sorce said of Dian. Sorce said. “He’s a smart Alberto Torres is the team’s player. He’s also versatile.” resident jack-of-all-trades. Ramirez, who is one of the “He’s going to play all over,” Bucs’ main power sources in Sorce said of Torres, who has the No. 3 hole, will see the already seen time at second majority of time at first base. base, third base, right field, Ramirez had two key hits in catcher and pitcher in the the win over Newark Academy first week of the season. That and delivered a two-run single

BELLEVILLE

in the seventh inning rally. Joseph Abramson is the team’s main second baseman, but Torres has seen time there as well. The shortstop is junior Matt McCann, who sits toward the top of the Buccaneers’ batting order. The third baseman should be senior Adiel DeLeon, who has missed the first three games of the season due to injury. “We’re hoping to get him cleared soon,” Sorce said. “He has a good bat. He would have been our Opening Day No. 4 hitter.” Napolitano is another third baseman. “He’s off to a good start at the plate,” Sorce said. Torres also gets time at the

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

hot corner. “We move him all over the field,” Sorce said of Torres. “He can swing the bat. He had four RBI hits in our first three games. I’m pleased where he’s at.” Sophomore Jacob Mauricio is the team’s main left fielder. “He has a lot of speed,” Sorce said. “He’s going to see a lot of time.” Cecere is the main centerfielder and senior Jason Miranda is in right field. “Jason is primarily a catcher, but we moved him out there to help us,” Sorce said. “He can swing the bat well.” Miranda had two hits in the season opener. Freshman Santiago Nunez is another outfielder who might see time at designated hitter.

“He’s a bat we want in the lineup,” Sorce said. “He’s an athletic kid who runs the bases well.” Senior Gabriel Mercado is the team’s resident courtesy runner, but can also see time in the outfield. Junior Jimmy Cicchetti is another outfielder in the mix. Senior Christian Dominguez is a reserve first baseman. The Buccaneers have home games against Caldwell and neighboring rival Nutley (Thursday night in Belleville at 7 p.m.) and another night game in West Orange on Saturday. “We have a lot of pieces to play with,” Sorce said. “We have a great bunch of kids who were excited to start the season.”

Kearny’s Gill has outstanding start to season By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com The 2021 high school baseball season was all set to begin

and Ryan Gill was more than ready. The Kearny High School junior right hander was hoping to get the ball to start the

season against Dickinson of Jersey City – and sure enough, Kearny head coach Dave Smart rewarded Gill with the Opening Day start.

“I was ready to go,” Gill said. “I wanted the ball. All day long, I had the feeling that I would have a good game.” “We were expecting a lot from him,” Smart said. “I told him that he was going to be a main guy.” Gill hadn’t heard such words before, considering that his entire sophomore year was wiped away with the COVID-19 pandemic. Gill, a lanky,

6-foot-5 specimen, had always been known for his basketball prowess. But baseball? “He can move as a shortstop,” Smart said. “He has a big bat. He just never had the chance last year. Freshman year, we wondered what we could do with the kid. He’s a monster, but he can move. He’s a big athletic kid. I figured he See ATHLETE, Page 12

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Wednesday, April 28, 2021 played together for so long that most people believe that the two are joined at the hip. Continued from Page 9 “Sydney hits the ball real hard,” Zullo said. “She has a earned run average is a sick and wonderful demeanor. She loves stingy 0.46. to play and then goes out there Just outstanding. and plays hard.” “If she is going to pitch that The first baseman is sophoway, she’s going to keep us in more Giana Lembo. games,” Zullo said. “We just “She never played first base have to make the plays behind before,” Zullo said. “We were her. Fallyn knows the game. moving her around a bit and She wants to win so badly. then she settled in at first.” She’s always working on new Lembo had foot surgery in pitches. She now has a variety December and had spent a of pitches. She’s constantly good portion of the winter in a coming up with new things to walking boot. fine tune her pitches. When the “But she’s fine now and playseason began, she was ready ing well,” Zullo said. “We’re to go. I said to my assistant happy with her there at first.” coaches that the ball looks like The second baseman is a it’s coming in a little quicker.” familiar name to the softball Stoeckel, the daughter of program and Nutley athletics. former Belleville boys’ basket- Sophomore Mia DiPiano is the ball coach Jim Stoeckel and the daughter of head girls’ soccer granddaughter of Super Essex coach, head wrestling coach Conference softball umpire as- and assistant softball coach signor Jim Stoeckel, Sr., is also Mike DiPiano. Forget the last an outstanding hitter, leading name, Mia is a fine player. the Maroon Raiders in doubles “She’s going to be very good,” with three and RBI with seven. Zullo said of DiPiano. Junior Sydney Hess is the Senior Lorianne O’Connor is team’s catcher who is batting the starting shortstop. .555 in the early going with “She was the starting second three RBI. baseman for two years, but we Stoeckel and Hess have moved her to shortstop this

VIEW

C ELEBRATING

EYE

Photo courtesy of Jim Stoeckel

Junior pitcher Fallyn Stoeckel has been nothing short of sensational for the Nutley softball team thus far, pitching to a 0.46 earned run average in four straight victories.

year,” Zullo said. “She came ready to play this year and has made some nice plays so far.” O’Connor, the Raiders’ leadoff hitter, has scored four runs in four games. Junior Nikki Cicchetti is the third baseman. She delivered

the game-winning hit in the Raiders’ 3-2 win over Becton Regional last week. The left fielder is sophomore Robin Niland. “She’s a nice little player who has good instincts on the base paths,” Zullo said. “She’s only going to get better.” Junior Lia DeMaio is the starting centerfielder. “She’s really worked at getting better,” Zullo said. “She’s our No. 2 hitter. She’s very quick and has put the time in.” Senior Julia Ciccone is the right fielder and the team’s cleanup hitter. “She’s not afraid to leave her feet and makes plays out there,” said Zullo, who mentioned that Ciccone made a brilliant throw from right field to get a runner out at second base on a single to right that became a fielder’s choice. Senior Sam Daly is the team’s

No. 2 pitcher. Juniors Jenna Garner (the team’s courtesy runner) and Luca Blancato are reserve outfielders, while promising freshman Riley Sebastiano is working her way toward getting more playing time. The Maroon Raiders have 21 more games scheduled and plan on getting them all in, provided that there will be no shutdowns due to COVID-19. “I think this is a team that will only get better,” Zullo said. “I think with the combination of youth and experience will help this team get better every day. They’re still learning the intricacies of the sport, but the goal is to get better every day. The 4-0 start is nice, but we’re not looking ahead at all. We want to get better every day.” And we’ll see if that improvement continues all the way into June.

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Wednesday, April 28, 2021

felt great warming up. My arm felt good. I never really thought I could struggle. Continued from Page 10 From the first pitch, I felt zoned in.” could get outs for us.” Gill was definitely in the But Gill wanted to pitch. He zone. He allowed just one hit wanted to get the opportunity and struck out nine. At the to show what he could do on plate, Gill had two hits and the mound right away. scored three runs, leading the “I knew that I had to take Kardinals to a 12-2 win in the on a bigger role this year, but season opener. I encouraged that,” Gill said. For his efforts, Gill has been “I knew that I had to pick my named The Observer Athlete game up a little and be a bigof the Week for the past week. ger leader.” Gill said that he was really Now, Smart rewards Gill by looking forward to the start, giving him the Opening Day especially after missing last start. year with the pandemic. Before the game begins, Gill “Definitely missing last had a positive premonition. Photo by Jim Hague year made me more anxious “I was warming up before Kearny junior right-handed pitcher/shortstop Ryan Gill. Photo to play,” Gill said. “I just had the game and I just felt like more confidence going forwill play shortstop, especially mound. One way or the other, I knew I was going to have ward.” a big game,” Gill said. “I just When Gill doesn’t pitch, he when Chris Serrano is on the Gill’s part of the plan moving forward. Smart likes the way Gill has developed, going from “Make your vision a 5-foot-10 freshman to a Most 6-foot-5 specimen now. picture perfect... Insurances “I couldn’t believe how big See what you’ve been Accepted he got so fast,” Smart said. missing. Visit our ofﬁce!” “I asked him, ‘How did you get so tall so fast?’ With that much growth, you might have some awkwardness. But he didn’t have that at all.

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He’s just a hard worker. He’s equally good as a hitter as he is a pitcher. With games backing up, you need to have kids like him who can throw and then play the next game. If he tells me he’s sore, I won’t throw him out there. I’m not going to ruin him.” Smart said that he will continue to monitor Gill’s progress throughout the season. “He’s almost sneaky fast as a pitcher,” Smart said. “The way he whips the ball at you and brings it. Everything he throws moves. He really has developed as a pitcher. I’m just letting him go. I won’t mess with his mechanics. If it’s natural to him, we’ll let him go. I think we always knew that he had it in him. Well, he’s proven it, now he has to do a little more. It’s a nice thing for me.” While Gill has been good in basketball, he knows where his bread is buttered. “No question, my focus is baseball,” Gill said. “I want to play baseball in college. But I just want to come out and have fun.” If Gill has more games like the one he enjoyed last week, he’s going to have tons of fun.

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Obituaries ROBERT A. NORCIA SR.

Robert “Bobby” Anthony Norcia Sr., 84, of North Arlington, since 1985, formerly of Jersey City, died at home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, April 21, 2021. The Beloved husband of Dolores (nee D’Andrea) Norcia for 56 years, he was the devoted son of the late Luigi & Maria (Mary) Norcia (nee Carbonito) and son-in-law of the late James & Virginia D’Andrea. Loving father of Robert Jr. & his wife Jean Norcia, Denise Norcia & her fiancée Hector, Barbara Norcia Forsness, and Lisa & her husband Leonard Marshall Jr., he was dear brother of Linda DeRado Anthony, Jerry P. Norcia and the late Joseph DeRado, James DeRado and Armando Norcia. The cherished grandfather of Robert III, Megan & husband Greg, Stephen, Thomas “TJ”, Alexxandria & fiancée Luis, Michael “Mikey” and Victor III & fiancée Kelly, he was the adored greatgrandfather of Vincent, Cali Rae, Bella, Luis and Luna, the brother-in-law of the late James “Chippy” D’Andrea and Barbara D’Andrea Smith, the Godfather of Renee, Christine, Eva Marie and

James and dear friend of Jerry Ruane, the late Eddie Abromaitis and his grand-dog Tasso Franklin Marshall. He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mr. Norcia attended and played football for Lincoln High School in Jersey City, where he was voted best dressed, best looking and best dancer. Bobby served in the National Guard. Always an excellent provider for his family, Bobby worked 37 years for Ryerson Steel and later worked part-time at Queen of Peace High School. Robert was a parishioner of Queen of Peace Roman Catholic Church and served as an usher at the church for 25 years. Mr. Norcia supported the Gail’s Angels Foundation and many charities. Bobby was a member of Sumi Bowmen of Union City years ago. Bobby was also a horse owner, trainer and driver at Freehold, Pocono and Meadowlands racetracks. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking, writing, weight training and gardening. Bobby enjoyed listening to oldies music, loved dancing and attending outdoor concerts with his wife, and he was once a contestant on American Bandstand. Bobby’s smile and laughter were the crux in his ability to connect with people. Robert was the life of the party and

was a jokester who loved to make limoncello. Bobby was an avid Giants and Yankees fan. Bobby was meticulous and an excellent dresser. Bobby was a caring and loving person who was loved by many nieces, nephews, friends and family. Robert meant the world to so many people and they meant the world to him. Of all his traits and accomplishments, the one thing that was most important to Robert was his family. Robert “Bobby” Norcia was a great man, husband, father and friend who embodied an amazing spirit which will be truly missed. His funeral will be Friday at 9 a.m., from the Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, 425 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m., Queen of Peace Church. Interment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Friends will be received Thursday, April 29, from 3 to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund, P.O. Box 338, Morristown, N.J. 07963 or to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105-9959. Share condolences at www.stellatofuneralhomes.com.

Born in Newark, he has lived in Kearny for the past 41 years. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home in Kearny. Mike was a bus mechanic for NJ Transit. He enjoyed going to car shows and meets. He especially treasured his 1980 Corvette. Husband of Lorraine (nee Zakrzewski) and father of Michael John Bianchi, Nina Marie Amador (husband Nuno) and Joseph Michael Bianchi (wife Meg), he was the brother of Michael, Rose and the late Claire. He is also survived by his grandchildren Nicholas and Nathan. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Humane Society.

JOHN ENGLISH

John English died April 15, 2020.

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. He was 80. Born in Kearny, he lived there many years before retiring to Lakeville, Pennsylvania. Memorial visitation was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. Burial of his ashes was in Arlington Cemetery, Kearny. John was well known in Kearny. He owned Tony’s Deli for many years and was a member of the Optimist Club and the Elks as well as sponsoring many different sporting teams. He was also a member of the Board of Directors in his lake community. He was the husband of the late Dolores and father of Terry, John, Valerie and Stephen. Brother of William, Richard and Naomi, he is also survived by his grandchildren Nicole, Dylan, Stephen, Matthew, Nikalena and Michael. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

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MICHAEL BIANCHI

Michael Bianchi died at home on April 21, 2021. He was 76.

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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.

Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home

596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

MID-REALTY, INC. 572 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ 07032 PHONE: (201) 991-5719 FAX: (201) 991-8860 WWW.MIDREALTY.COM

Your local news source for over

133 Years!

Jarlynn Hyde Broker/Owner

COVERING: BELLEVILLE • BLOOMFIELD • EAST NEWARK • HARRISON KEARNY • LYNDHURST • NORTH ARLINGTON • NUTLEY

“OUR SUCCESS HAS BEEN BUILT ONE SATISFIED CUSTOMER AT A TIME...”

39 Seeley Ave., Kearny

201.991.1600 www.theobserver.com

NEW LISTING!

Paterson - $309,900 1 Fam. -4 Bdrms-Lr-DR-EIK – 3 Full Bath- Unfin. Bsmt

Kearny - $419,800 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms and loft area-2.5 baths-Lr-Dr-Kitchen-Fenced in yard with Dr way parking for 4 plus cars.

Hackettstown $334,500 1 Fam. - 3 BdrmsLR-Dr-Kitchen – 1.5 Bath- Family Rm- Yard – Garage-Dr Way

T RAC ONT ER C D N U

ACCT NTTRRA ON ERR CCO D E N D UUN

T RAC ONT ER C D N U

Newark - $150,000 Business for Sale - Well established Cafe/Restaurant. Situated in high traffic area, busy walk-able neighborhood. Corner location with unique exposure, Full dining room with about 50 seats, plus Buffet area. Good income producer. Business includes all kitchen equipment in excellent condition, refrigeration, all furniture, walk in boxes, coolers, lighting, POS system, two TV’s, full camera system. Full basement for storage and office.

Kearny - $468,000 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms – LrDr-Kitchen-3.5 baths-Full Fin. Bsmt w Bar & Rec Rm-Yard-Dr Way

Kearny - $548,800 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms –2.5 baths- Lr w FP-Dr- Kitchen W Brkfst Nook- Full Semi Fin Bsmt – Dr Way-2 Car Garage

Kearny - $419,900 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms – Lr-Dr-EIK– Sunrm- 1.5 Baths – Fin. Attic- Full unfin Bsmt- Dr Way prkng.

T RAC ONT ER C D N U

Nutley - $179,900 Condo - 1 Bdrm- LrDr-Kitchen- Full Bath-Attic Strg – Parking

Kearny - $289,000 1 Fam. - Row Home-LrDr-Kitchen- Deck- 3 Br’s1.5 baths-Yard.

Harrison - $755,000 2020 New Construction 2 Fam. - 5 Br’s-5 Baths-Open Concept-Mod Kitchen’s-Laundry Hk Up In Units-Yard-Dr Way Parking.

Port Reading - $347,600 1 Fam. - Ranch-Lr-EIK-3 Seasons Room- 3 Br’s-2 baths-Rec Rm - Driveway

Kearny - $635,000 2 Fam. - Large HomeWell Kept- 4 Bdrms-Lr’sDr’s EIK’s-3 Full BathsParking for 4 plus cars.

Kearny - $389,000 1 Fam. - 3 Bdrms- Lr-Dr- Lg EIK – 1.5 Baths- Full Unfin. Bsmt – Attic Strg-Parking.

T RAC ONT ER C D N U

CTT TRRAAC OONNT ERRCC E D D N UUN

E SAL IAL ERC M M CO

SE LEA IAL ERC M M CO

Clifton - $479,000

Forked River - $414,800 1 Fam. - ModernWaterfront-3 Bdrms-2 Full baths-Ample Parking.

Kearny - $424,900 Commercial Sale - Large Warehouse that offers 3 office spaces, 2 bathrooms, 5 warehouse spaces, machine shop and a loading dock.

Belleville - $2,200 Location, Location- Medical office space available with 20 car parking-Across from Clara mass hospitalGreat foot traffic.

Kearny - $6,500 Turnkey restaurant with approx. 2700 sq ft- Great foot traffic-Plenty of options to suit your needs.

1 Fam. - Modern ColonialLr-Dr-Mod EIK-Fam RM-sliders to yard with inground pool- 3 Bdrms and 2 full baths-1 Car att garage with driveway parking.

SE LEA IAL ERC M COM

TAL REN

Kearny - $1,800 Approx. 756 sq ft of office space- great foot traffic and centrally located.

Harrison - $1,400 2nd Fl. - One Bdrm-Lr-Dr-EIK and full bath with1 Car garage parking- laundry in unit.

TAL REN

Kearny - $1,600 2nd Fl. - 2 Bdrms-Lr- Lrg EIK-Full bath.

TAL REN

Harrison - $1,650 2 Bdrms-Kitchen-Lr-EIKCentral Air-Hrdwd Fls.

TAL REN

Jersey City - $1,700 2nd Fl. - Renovated – 2 Bdrms LR, Office, Full Bath, Mod Kitchen, Hrdwd Fls

APARTMENT RENTALS AVAILABLE

1, 2 & 3 Bdrm UNITS Call and Ask About our Reduced Rental Fee! For more properties, visit our website

www.midrealty.com

Call (201) 991-5719 CALL FOR A FREE MARKET EVALUATION TODAY! FALAMOS PORTUGUES • HABLAMOS ESPANOL • PARLE FRANCAIS PARLIAMO ITALIANO • MOWIMY PO POLUSKU • NATAKALEM EL-ARABIA

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TEL: 201.998.9050 • FAX: 201.820.0505

KEARNY

HARRISON

LIV, DIN, KIT, 3 BR, 2 FB, FIN BASEMENT Asking $349,000

LIV, DIN, KIT, OFFICE, 2 BR, 1.5 BATHS, FIN BASEMENT

3 Family, 7 BR, 4 FB, LIV, KIT, shared driveway Asking $629,900

NEWARK

HARRISON

2 Family Home 2 Brs Per Unit 2 Car Gar Asking $450,000

Large 2 Br 2 Bath Condo Asking $399,999

Renovated 1 Family 3 Brs 1.5 Bath

KEARNY

NORTH ARLINGTON

Manor Section Colonial 3 Brs 1.5 Bath

Colonial 4 Brs 3 Bath

Colonial 3 Brs 1.5 Bath

Asking $389,000

Asking $575,000

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We have Rentals - Call Today!

758 Kearny Ave., Kearny, NJ 07032 • 201-991-0032

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

KPD

Continued from Page 3 was the subject of an arrest warrant stemming from a three-month narcotics-manufacturing and distribution investigation that was announced in The Observer last week. The detectives placed Lopez under arrest. It was unclear from reports if he had finished his haircut first, but the fade in his mugshot did look tight. Lopez was processed and then transferred to the Hudson County Jail in South Kearny. On April 16 at 8:18 p.m., Officer Jose Perez-Fonseca was flagged down by a concerned citizen near Quick Chek. The citizen pointed to a Honda that was exiting the store parking lot and told the officer that its driver was intoxicated. Officer Perez-Fonseca turned around to witness the driver make an abrupt left turn onto Bergen Avenue cutting off a car coming south on Kearny Avenue. Officer Perez-Fonseca pulled over the Honda on Bergen Avenue, finding that its interior smelled like alcohol and marijuana. Driver Michael K. Rein, 37, of Kearny, had some difficulty finding his driving credentials. He eventually produced a non-driver’s license state identification card and his vehicle registration. When Rein could not satisfactorily perform field-so-

briety tests, he was arrested. Following an Alcotest at the police station, Rein was charged with DWI, careless driving, and unlicensed driving. He was released 12 hours later in accordance with John’s Law. On April 18 at 9 minutes past midnight, Officer Anthony Oliveira was patrolling near Johnston and Highland avenues. There, he saw Jose Torres acting furtively, crouching near a parked vehicle. Officer Oliveira knew Torres had been to the hospital the day before, the hospital identification bracelet encircling his wrist served as a reminder. He also knew Torres had a history of sleeping in vestibules and apartment hallways — Torres received a trespassing charge in February for sleeping in the common hallway of a Woodland Avenue apartment house. The officer parked and approached Torres to check on him. Torres allegedly countered this welfare check by screaming homosexual and female slurs and other profanity at the officer and casting threats about the Oliveira family. With the now awoken neighbors at their windows, Torres escalated by clenching his fists and leaning into Officer Oliveira while continuing to shout. With assistance from Sgt. Tom Pontrella and Officer Perez-Fonseca, Officer Oliveira placed Torres under arrest for disorderly conduct.

During his ride to the police station, Torres reportedly spit inside the police car and banged his head against the windows and protective bars. At the police station, upon having one handcuff removed for arrest processing, Torres became combative again, striking Officers Perez-Fonseca and Oliveira during the struggle. Torres was subdued and additionally charged with two counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement officers and the town ordinance violation of expectorating. Torres was later remanded to the Hudson County Jail. On April 19 at 4:15 a.m., Officers Oliveira, Jose Castillo, David Vazquez and Perez-Fonseca responded to a car crash near Chestnut Street and Seeley Avenue. Upon arrival, Officer Perez-Fonseca noted that a parked Ford Edge had sustained fresh driver’s side damage. Approximately 100 feet up the road, the officer saw Christian M. Sandoval, 30, of Kearny, stopped in a Nissan Altima that had sustained heavy front-end damage. Sandoval reported he may have fallen asleep and struck the parked car. Smelling the remnants of alcohol on his breath, Officer Oliveira conducted field-sobriety testing, which Sandoval did not pass. Sandoval was arrested and given an Alcotest at police headquarters. He was charged with DWI, careless driving and unlicensed driving, and later released to a family member.

Historical Society recalls Chinese Memorial Day

Chinese Memorial Day, known as Ching Ming, was commemorated at the Chinese monument in the cemetery of the former Belleville reformed Church in Belleville, Saturday, April 17, with 50 guests from gathered to remember the first Chinese immigrants on the east coast who died and were buried in Belleville and North Arlington. The event has been organized by the Belleville Historical Society and the United Chinese American Association of New Jersey (UCAANJ) for the past five years. Belleville Historical Society president Michael Perrone said by the spring of 1871, two of the young Chinese immigrants had died. The monument was built so Ah Ling and Zing Sing and the others who died and were buried here, 6,000 miles from home, would always be remembered. Margaret Lamb, founder and Chairwoman of the UCAANJ presented church Pastor Lillian Ortiz with a check for $25,000 to help with the repair of the church steeple. Belleville Councilmen Steve Rovell and Vincent Cozzarelli — as well as other dignitaries — were present.

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224 GRANT AVENUE • EAST NEWARK, NJ 07029

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Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Dog photo Contest! part two sponsored by bone appetit barkery. voting form on page 10.

36. marley

37. Maximillion

38. mia

39. mia & marley

40. mimi

41. minnie

42. miss lea

43. moe

44. molly

45. ms. bella

46. noah

47. oliver

48. petey

49. porter

50. ranger

51. raven

52. ravioli

53. rex

54. rocky

55. roxy

56. ruger

57. sammy

58. sammy

59. sarg

60. scruffy

61. sisi

62. taiko

63. titan

64. tucker

65. tux

66. walter & oliver

67. winnie

68. yuki

69. zoey pancakes

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Observer Classifieds

17 17

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

Call Mid-Realty today for information how you can become a real estate agent! You have an opportunity to enjoy an independent full or part time career in real estate in just a few short weeks. For almost 60 years Mid-Realty Inc, has been a successful real estate company serving New Jersey. Whether looking for a new career or curious as to how our office supports our agents, call today for a confidential interview to find out more about us. (201)991-5719 Email midrealty@gmail.com 45W09

Come join us, Midtown Pharmacy is looking for Pharmacy technician Gift dept/ front end merchandiser APPLY IN PERSON/SEND RESUME TO applymidtown581@gmail.com 49W03

PARTS PERSON Well established Auto Body Shop, 41 years in business is seeking an experienced person to order parts and materials. We will train for Collision Estimating Colormycar Auto Body, Ironbound Newark, (973)868-0757 - info@colormycar.com 49W03

WAREHOUSE WORKERS DRIVER & HELPERS Bi Lingual preferred We offer: Health Insurance Paid Vacation & Sick Days Full Time positions available Apply in person at: Family Food Distributors Inc Located at: 969 NEWARK TURNPIKE UNIT D KEARNY NJ 07032 Or Call 201-997-7689 EXT: 1104

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

SERVICES OFFERED

Warehouse worker Apply in person 260 Schuyler Ave Kearny,NJ,07032

Movers/Drivers must have valid driver’s license, must speak English. Salary based on experience Call Ellen 973-727-9824

APPLIANCES & ELECTRONICS REPAIR OVER 20 YEARS SERVING NJ RESIDENTS IN 6 COUNTIES. FALAMOS PORTUGUES. HABLAMOS ESPANOL. FREE ESTIMATE AT SANTRONICS.NET OR CALL 908-403-0313

50W03

51W03

HELPER Well established Auto Body Shop, 41 years in business, Ironbound, Newark is seeking a Mechanical or Bodyman helper with experience. (973)868-0757 info@colormycar.com

Help wanted for Busy Deli Full Time- Part Time Days and Evenings Apply in Person D&F Deli 396 Kearny Ave, Kearny

49W03

Full time/Part time waitress with experience. Part time take-out/Counter person needed. Call Robert (201)246-0100 51W01

Instructor Will train right candidate. Must be reliable. Part time driver wanted Call (201) 246-8000 51W03

Delivery Person wanted, Must Have Car. (201) 997-3887 51W03

49W03

Looking for a warehouse worker to work in a furniture warehouse in Belleville, NJ. full time. Monday thru Fridays. Please come to the second Floor and ask for Peter. No phone calls The address is 323 Cortlandt St Belleville, NJ 49W03

OFFICE WORK Setting & Confirming appointments Outbound Calls $12/H Split shift 9-1 & 3-5 with more hours as improved. Must be a people person & enjoy talking on the phone. Bilingual a plus. (201)955-0001 for interview Ask for Donna 50W03

FULL TIME Landscaper w/experience Needed. Driver’s license a must. Call 201-998-1262 49W03

Part Time Vacuum Repair Technician

Perform assessment, provide estimate, complete repairs of vacuum appliance. Buff and polish aluminum as needed. Capable of organizing a workshop and great time mgmt. 9am-1pm. M-F Will train. $14/H 201-955-0001 to schedule interview. 49W03

LOOKING FOR A SALES EXECUTIVE TO JOIN OUR TEAM Responsibilities include servicing existing accounts, calling inactive accounts, generating new business and growing territories & building new leads. Background check. Send resumes with a cover letter of introduction to jobs@theobserver. com

51W03

46W26

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 49W04

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.

OFFICIAL NOTIFICATION

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

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 (COPR) Residue Site 50 in Kearny, New Jersey

KEARNY office space on Kearny Ave. 1 1/2 months security. 900 sq.ft. Proximity to PATH call 201-889-3118. 49W04

PROJECT APPLICANT: Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of its affiliate Occidental Chemical Corporation (OCC) The proposed project consists of remedial activities at the COPR Site 50 in Kearny, New Jersey. The work will be implemented by Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., OCC, in accordance with a Remedial Action Workplan (“RAW”; approved by NJDEP) and RAW addendum (submitted to the NJDEP on March 11, 2021) pursuant to a September 2011 Consent Judgement between NJDEP and OCC, PPG Industries, Inc., and Honeywell International Inc. The proposed Project includes implementing groundwater and stormwater controls and site grading on a portion of Site 50 and adjacent areas and is being implemented to accommodate the Portal North Bridge, a project of national significance, that will occur on, or adjacent to, the subject sites. BLOCK: 287 LOTS: 29, 32.03, 35, 36, 37, 38.01, 38.02, 39 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 51W01

Belleville’s first-ever community garden takes shape on Riverdale

LIQUOR LICENSE Liquor License for Sale Plenary Retail Distribution #44 Kearny Area Call (201)320-7121 50W03

Belleville’s first Community Garden — where Jerseyfresh tomatoes, cool cucumbers and other delicious vegetables will soon sprout — has taken root at Fairway Park on Riverdale Avenue. The 12 vegetable garden planters, each measuring 4 feet x 8 feet, will soon be available to Belleville residents on a first-come, first-served basis for the 2021 growing season by online registration and a nominal fee. The application and garden rules will be posted soon on the township website, BellevilleNJ.org. The garden will provide the ideal local opportunity for residents who might not own land or have access to a plot of earth to grow their own vegetables. “There has been a real boom in recent years of residents who have started their own backyard vegetable gardens,” Gabrielle BennettMeany, Belleville’s Green Team coordinator, said. “This gives people access to fresh, nutrient-rich food and helps them save money on produce that would otherwise be purchased at the supermarket. The community garden is perfect for residents who doesn’t have the opportunity to start their own.” The Green Team’s Vinny Cozzarelli, a member of the Belleville Township Council, says gardening has other

health benefits. “Many people find that digging in the ground and planting seeds and tending to their gardens is a great way to relax and relieve stress,” he said. “We are happy to bring this new, healthy hobby to more Belleville residents.” The new garden area will also offer opportunities to educate residents of all ages about a variety of gardening topics and sustainability. Mayor Michael Melham says a future expansion of the Fairway Park Community Garden is already being planned as well as looking for other gardening locations throughout the town. “I applaud the Green Team’s efforts,” Melham said. “The community garden is the sort of amenity we will continue to add to not only make Belleville an even better place to live, but a greener one, too.” Members of the Belleville Scout Troop No. 350 played a big role in the creation of the community garden. They helped build the planters and filled them with soil. Participating in such a community project helps the Scouts advance in rank and obtain a community-service award. Members of Belleville’s Department of Public Works also did site work to lay the foundations for the project, which is funded through a grant.

18 18

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Observer Classifieds

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

HARRISON

BELLEVILLE 1 Bedroom Laundry facility on premises. 1 Parking Space Hardwood floors. $1275 + Utilities. See Super Apartment #2, 61 Newcombe St. Belleville. Call Joe (862)202-9210

HARRISON 2nd floor 5 rooms, 2 bedrooms, EIK, access to backyard, $1,600/mth plus security. Utilities Seperate. No Pets/Smoking. Available May 1st. Call Sara (201)306-1945 or (201)320-3703 51W03

51W03

BLOOMFIELD

BLOOMFIELD Attractive 5 rooms 1st floor. Brand new renovation & appliances. Basement storage room with Washer/Dryer hook up. Utilities included. Pay only for electric. 2 Parking. Close to Transportation. (973)715-2906 51W03

BLOOMFIELD Studio & 1 BR apartments. H/HW included. Laundry facilities on premise. $850 to $1050. See Super Yasira 275 Glenwood Ave, Bloomfield 201-852-3895 51W03

HARRISON

HARRISON 1 bedroom, modern bath, 2nd floor. $1,425/mth plus 1.5 mth security. Good credit a must! Available May 1st (973)985-8486 50W03

HARRISON 2 BR. LR. Kitchen. Bath. $1350+ 1 months security. Utilities separate.Available May 1st. Call Carlos (201)9887536 50W03

HARRISON First floor, 2BR, Kitchen, LR, DR. $1,425 + 1.5 month security. Utilities separate. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. (973)481-2241 Leave message 50W03

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

KEARNY

N.ARLINGTON

KEARNY Large 1200 sf KEARNY 2 bedroom apt in mint 1 BR APT. HT/HW condition. Beautiful Hard- included. $1,250/month. wood flooring, Eat in See Super, 654 Elm St, Kitchen, large living room Kearny. Call Sofia after and bath. 1 Block from 3pm(201)998-3516 Shopping Center/ Foodfor appointment. town/ CVS and public 51W03 transportation. $1650/ month. 1.5 months secuKEARNY rity. Utilities are separate. 1 & 2 BR APT. HT/HW Landlord pays Cold Water. included. $1,250 to HARRISON 2nd Floor. No pets. No smoking. $1595 + 1.5 Months Small 1 Bedroom, LR, EIK, Contact: Diogo 201-693security. See Super, 6 Close to PATH, $1,100/ 3480. 49W03 Woodland Ave.Kearny mth +1.5 mth security. 1 Apt. 1 (201)892-8035 for year lease. Utilities Sepappointment. 51W03 erate. No Pets/Smoking. KEARNY 3 BDRM, 2 BTH, (973)437-6799 for ap- LR/DR, LRG EI KTN, dishpointment. 51W03 washer, deck, parking, KEARNY Totally renovatctrl air, ldry hookup, add’l ed 2 bedroom apartment storage. Utils separate. 2nd floor. 1.5 month No pets, no smoking. security. Utilities Seper$2100 + 1.5 mon secu- ate. No Pets $1,500/ rity. Avail June 1st. Call mth. Available 5/15/21 (201)467-1568 51W03 201-259-3110 49W03

HARRSION 1st floor. Newly renovated. Provide fridge, washer & Dryer. 2 BR, 1 Bath. LR. EIK. CA/Heat. $1700 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Available Now (973)985-0764 51W03

KEARNY HARRISON 2nd Floor. 2 BR. LR. EIK. $1350 + 1 1/2 months security. Utilities included. No Pets/Smoking. Close to TRANS. Avl. May 1st (862)208-8565 (973)932-7763 Please text 49W03

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

KEARNY 355 Kearny Ave, Kearny 1 BR, LR, EIK. $1200 + $1400 for security. HT/HW Included. No Dogs. Available Now. (201)238-8079 or (973)465-0166 49W03

KEARNY 132 Midland Ave. 1 BR, LR, Kitchen. HT/HW included. $1200 + $1400 security (973)6348873 or (973)465-0166 49W03

KEARNY 2nd floor. Newly renovated. 2 bedrooms, EIK. $1550 + 1 months security. Utilities Separate. Proximity to PATH and bus lines Available Now. No Pets No Smoking. (201)889-3118 49W03

KEARNY 5 1/2 rooms, 2nd fl, Arlington section. $1,450/month + utilities. No Pets/Smoking Avl.May 1st. Call (201) 998-5137. 49W03

KEARNY Modern 1 Bedroom KEARNY Newly apartment, EIK, LR & renovated.2nd floor. 2 Bath in great location. BR. LR. EIK. 1 1/2 Bath. Off street parking. $1400 + 1 months security. Hardwood floors. Bi-level Supply own utilities. condo W/Balcony. ApSingle or couple pliances included. C/A. preferred. No Pets/Smoking. Washer/Dryer. 1 ParkAvailable 15th Call ing space. $2000 + 1.5 between April 10am & 7pm months security. Utilities (201)997-2341 51W03 separate. Application and background check. Available now (973)941-6332 50W03

LYNDHURST

KEARNY 3 LG ROOMS (1 BEDROOM) IN WELL MAINTAINED BUILDING AT 111-117 BELGROVE DRIVE. $1,350/ MTH INCLUDING HEAT/ HOT WATER. LAUNDRY ROOM. NO PETS. (973)493-7868 50W03

LYNDHURST 2nd floor. 1 BR,LR, EIK. $1400 + 1.5 months security. Close to NY transportation and shopping. Quiet area. Washer and dryer. Available May 1st. (201)9936329 49W03

KEARNY Newly renovated, hardwood floors. Laundry onsite. HT/ HW included. 2 BR start at $1,450 1 BR start at $1,295 Jr. BR start at $ 1,995 (201) 289-7096

N.ARLINGTON

N.ARLINGTON 1 Bdrm Avil 6/1 Can be 2 BR’s. $1600 month. Utilities 40W12 separate. Off street parking for 2 vehicles. Walk to all amenities. KEARNY 2nd floor. 2 famNYC bus stop ily house. 2 BR. Big LR & Call (201)955-0001 to see Large Kitchen. $1550 50W03 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Couple preferred. No Pets/SmokN.ARLINGTON ing. Available June 1st Great Location! First floor Studio apart(201)955-2463 51W02 ment w/separate Kitchen. $1200 + 1 months security. H/ HW included. Laundry KEARNY 6 family home, on premises. No Pets/ Newly Renovated. 3rd fl. 2 Smoking. Single or couple preferred. BR, $1,300/month, HT inAvailable Now. cluded. 1 1/2 months seCall between 10am & 7pm curity. No pets. No Smok(201)997-2341 ing Avl. June 1st. (201) 51W03 916-9460 51W03

N.ARLINGTON 3 Family owner occupied. 1 Big BR, 2nd Fl. Supply own Heat & Electric. New Heat & AC units. No Pets/Smokers Perfect for couple. MUST SEE, YOU WILL LOVE IT!

EXTRAS 3-yr Lease $1,800.per month 1-month Security. Available May 1st, June 1st or sooner Call 201-997-4820 50W03

FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT

KEARNY Female grad student or Professional Female. $600 month + 1 months security. Included private Bath. Microwave/ freezer & refrigerator. No Kitchen. No Smoking/Pets. Available Now (201)997-1807 50W03

Looking to make extra cash? Are you a handyman? Painter?

HOUSE SALE Harrison- Close to PATH/ QuickChek. Adult clothing, furniture, housewares/restaurant items, antiques, contractor items/tools, appliances and more. Sat/Sun May 1-2, 11am-4pm. 209 Frank E Rodgers Blvd South. 51W01

Advertise your talents with

The Observer Your ad will appear in print ITEMS FOR SALE 4 Gold penn reels and poles, salt water assorted tackle boxes, sinkers, hooks, too much to list! $375. 3/4 set sockets and full tool box assorted tools $350. (201)9062900 50W03

GARAGE SALE YARD SALE May 1st & 2nd 10 am-5 pm 53 Stewart Ave., Kearny. Plus size womans clothing, Big Man clothing, Kids stuff, girls newborn-3T and boys 3T6T. 51W01

& online and will reach thousands of loyal customers in print & on the web

Call (201) 991-1600 CLASSIFIED ADS ARE CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Observer Classifieds 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.

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

RUBBISH REMOVAL A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

erickconstructionnj.com Free estimates - Fully insured

Attics, Basements, Yard Cleaning. We Haul or You Can Rent 10-15 Cubic Yard Containers. We Accept Visa/MasterCard (201) 998-1262

Lic#13VH04302300 10W54

49W06

New + Re-roofing • Flat roofing • Siding • Gutters

(973) 343-1167 (201) 528-8350 (800)322-1019

• Concrete • Brick work • Steps • Stone Walls • Tiles • Painting • Sheetrock • Drywall • Plastering ALL types of Masonry Free Estimates (973) 943-2254 50W06

PLUMBING & HEATING

ROOFING/SIDING

PAYLESS ROOFING Roofing - Siding - RepairsSame day service Same phone number for 20 Years

(973)906-8404

paylessroofingservices.com LIC#13VH00418100 48W06

HOME IMPROVEMENT

LACA CORP

Paint * Powerwash* and More •Interior • Exterior •Free Estimates•Fully Insured 973-759-8869 973-930-5002 50W52

Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry. Hot Water Heaters. Fully Ins. Lic# 165

(201)637-1775 48W06

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC •Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991 49W04

Affordable & Simple Landscaping

Spring clean-ups, mowing, Hedge Trim, Mulch, Flower planting & more.Reasonable Rates. Dave 201-286-7224 49W06

PEST CONTROL

CLEANING SERVICES CHAMPION CLEANING I use my own supplies. Good rates and great references! Call Susan at (973)743-2039

BASEMENT RENOVATIONS NO MORE WASTED SPACE. Baths, Kitchens, Decks Painting. All types of Home Improvement. Quality work. Fair prices Fully insured. Lic# 13vh03006100

Licensed and Insured 46W06

What an ad on Craigslist gets you ... • A free ad | • No-shows • Headaches | • People from other regions of NJ • scammers

(201) 906-2422 48W06

What an Observer Classified gets you ...

Avishay Contractors We specialize in outdoor living spaces. Free estimates. Fully insured & licensed. Lic #13VH11121100

(973) 626-8363 justin@avishaycontractors.com 50W04

51W03

PAINTERS Classic Painting Exterior starts at $999.00 G&R All types of home BUILDERS Improvement work Roofing, Call Donald on my cell (862)754-1789 Siding, Windows/Doors, donaldccr4949@gmail.com Decks, leave message will call back ASAP Gutter Cleaning 49W03 Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Kevin’s Affordable Carpentry Painting FREE ESTIMATES Sheetrocking, Plastering, Floors, 20% Senior Doors and more. Citizen Discounts Very neat and clean. (201) 893-0656 You will be happy with our service and prices. Lic. #13VH02536200 Refrences available 49W06 Senior Discounts Call for the best price (201) 565-6393.

• 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

49W06

MASONRY

SANTOS CONST. CO.

PEST CONTROL Exterminating Fast Service • Roaches • Ants • Bed Bugs • Fleas Call 973-932-2092

Let’s get back to work! Decks Cleaned and Coated. Clean out your home, attics, basements Senior Discounts. Call William J. McGuire (201)955-2520 45W09

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC.

kitchens, bathrooms, and

JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating

CLASS ACT PAINTING

*Interior * Exterior * Powerwashing * Sheetrock * Tile

201-988-2741 email: classactpainting@comcast.net

Fully Insured 50W03

19 19

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

All Concrete work, Sidewalks, Patios, Driveways, B/B Curb, Retaining Walls All Types of Steps BRICK PAVER DESIGNS FAMILY OWNED FOR OVER 30 YEARS FULLY INSURED AND LICENSED

FREE ESTIMATES

973-589-2712 49W04

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 0% FINANCING UP TO 18 MONTHS! NO MONEY DOWN!

• Boilers • Bathroom Remodeling • Oil to Gas Conversions

• Sewers Video Camera Inspections

267 River Rd. | North Arlington | New Jersey

LIC# 9529 |T: 201.997.8565 | F: 201.997.1085 | www.DeGracePlumbing.com

REFRIGERATION • AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • SALES • SERVICE NORTH ARLINGTON, NJ WAYNE CANGIALOSI ROCHELLE PARK, NJ NJ LIC.# 13VHO1132900 • NJ Master HVACR Lic.# 19HCOO868800

201-981-0852

waynehvacr@verizon.net • www.waynerefrigeration.com

HIGHEST CASH PAID ON THE SPOT BUYING GOLD & DIAMONDS

Arlington

Jewelers

JEWELRY PROFESSIONALS FOR OVER 40 YEARS

ear Gold is N z.! ro e p $1,800 vantage d A e k Ta NOW!

Specializing in Watch & Jewelry Repairs

Up to 70% OFF

WATCHES • 14K GOLD JEWELRY DIAMOND JEWELRY • STERLING SILVER JEWELRY

36 RIDGE ROAD • NORTH ARLINGTON • 201-998-5036

NJ Plumb# 11103 / HVAC# 19HC00064800

COURAGEOUS

PLUMBING, HEATING, COOLING Sewer & Drain Cleaning/Excavations Central AC/Furnaces/Humidifiers

$25 OFF

YOUR FIRST JOB CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERING

Oil to Gas Conversion, Inspections, Hot Water Heaters, Permit Corrections for Resale Visa, Mastercard and Discover Accepted courageousllc.com • courageousplumb@aol.com

201.206.4845 • 908.387.8150

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

DENTISTRY DEDICATED

TO EXCELLENCE. With combined experience of 50 years, Dr. Elfar and his team of dental professionals, provide the highest quality of dentistry at affordable prices!

SERVICES • General Dentistry

• Invisalign

• Cosmetic Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry • Implants

• Periodontics

• Dentures

• Preventative/

• Oral Surgery

Hygiene

No insurance? No problem! Call us about our in house discount plan.

$99*

NEW PATIENT EXAM, CLEANING AND X-RAYS *FOR NONINSURED PATIENTS

FREE CONSULTATIONS (X-RAYS NOT INCLUDED)

$350 IN OFFICE WHITENING

Mina A. Elfar, D.M.D. General, Cosmetic, & Family Dentistry

GOOGLE REVIEW "This is the best dental practice I've been to by far! Professional and friendly staff. Took me in right away. Very clean and new office. I was extremely impressed. Dr. Elfar and all his staff is personable and committed to providing the best care. Will be recommending to all my friends and family! 5/5!" -Rami Alrabaa

FLEXIBLE HOURS IN BOTH LOCATIONS • EARLY, LATE AND WEEKEND HOURS

837 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ T: 201.991.1055

2 W NORTHFIELD RD. SUITE 302B LIVINGSTON, NJ WWW.GENUINESMILESPA.COM T: 973.758.8922

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Dog photo Contest! part one

second batch of pups to be published along with voting form april 28th

1. apollo

2. audrey

3. bailey

4. barkley

5. bart

6. beau

7. bella

8. belle

9. bentley

10. brandy

11. buzz

12. cade & cal

13. cassie

14. charlie

15. cody

16. cooper

17. cooper

18. cosmo

19. dozer

20. evie

21. finn

22. fizbe

23. gigi

24. harper

25. harper

26. holly

27. hunter

28. jojo

29. koda

30. leo

31. lexi

32. lucky

33. luna

34. maggie & mcgee

35. marley