e-Newspaper for June 30, 2021 by The Observer Newspaper

Wednesday, 30 June 2021

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Vol. CXXXIV, No. 8

ON THE INSIDE Jim Hague announces this year’s Female Athlete of the Year See Page 9

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

Harrison Police Department In Mourning Police Officer Elizabeth Delacruz, mom & Marine, dies at the age of 30 By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

arrison Police Officer Elizabeth Y. Delacruz of Jersey City died Tuesday, June 22, 2021, while at the Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. The mother of one daughter was just 30. Her funeral will be conducted from Holy Cross Church, 16 Church Square, Harrison, on Thursday, July 1, 2021. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. The visitation will take place at Holy Cross Church on Wednesday, June 30, from 3 to 8 p.m. and Thursday morning after 9 a.m. Her burial will

follow at the Northern New Jersey Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Sparta. Funeral services are under the direction of Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison. If you would like to send a condolence message to her family, please visit www.mulliganfh.com. Elizabeth was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and moved to the U.S. as a child. She eventually settled in Jersey City prior to briefly living in New York. Liz served her country in the U.S. military, serving in the United States Marine Corps during Campaign Operation See DELACRUZ, Page 15

‘Officer Elizabeth Delacruz was a highly accomplished and respected member of our police department. She lived a life of service and always embodied integrity, perseverance and an authentic commitment to the Harrison community in all she did. Officer Delacruz was known for her work ethic, her beaming smile and her positive attitude. She was an exemplary role model. She has certainly left her mark in the world and has made a positive impact in many lives. Liz will be profoundly missed and our HPD family will always honor her memory. I would like to thank the Harrison community for embracing the Delacruz family and the HPD during this difficult time and ask that we all continue to keep Liz’s family in our thoughts and prayers.’ — Chief David Strumolo

Doing what’s best for all in the face of tragic loss

How rules for reporting potential crimes in newspapers differ from social media’s lack of guidelines By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

ight months after the body of a baby was found in a rubbish bin at a home in Kearny, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office still has

no answers as to the manner of death, a community remains up in arms about the delays in getting answers and very few details are known about the case. The baby’s body — he was later named Matthew by his family — has since been released by the northeast

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Regional Medical Examiner’s Office and he was buried at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, earlier this year. This newspaper has emailed or called Jennifer Morrill, the spokeswoman for Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez on a regular basis.

Every single time, the response has been the same or similar — the case is still pending the results of the finding of the medical examiner’s office. Additionally, one emailed response is, verbatim, exactly what was sent in See LOSS, Page 8

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

MINOR MIRACLE: WIFE NEEDS KIDNEY

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

hen Erica Martone, originally of Kearny, met Steve Rocha, also originally of Kearny, she was up front with him from the get-go. She had a serious affliction, known as Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). She told him it would likely one day require her to have a kidney transplant. “You can have mine,” he says to Erica back then. You’ll forgive her if she was a bit skeptical of Steve’s offer early on in their courtship. “I said, ‘Yeah, OK, sounds good,’” at the time, Erica says. Now fast forward many years. Erica Martone becomes Erica Martone Rocha, the couple has two kids and live in Nutley now — and until just a few weeks ago, Erica still had just her own kidneys. But her ailment was getting worse. The transplant was becoming more necessary. And, though odds are listed as 1 in 100,000 — Erica thinks the odds are really much higher, but can’t find the stats anywhere — Steve got tested. And somehow, against the odds, her husband was a complete match. They had the same blood type — A — though neither knows whether it’s A- or A+. The fact is, their blood type — and many other medical qualities necessary for the transplant — were a perfect match. And so, a few weeks ago, the two underwent surgeries at Continued on the next page

Steve and Erica Rocha are seen here in this undated photo. Erica was in need of a kidney — and somehow, against incredible odds, Steve was an exact match and was able to donate one of his to his wife.

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

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AND HER HUSBAND’S A PERFECT MATCH Continued from previous page

the transplant center at St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston. Both surgeries have, thus far, been amazingly successful. The couple are now back in their Nutley home, recovering well. But it’s been a long road from meeting, marrying, starting a family, to the transplant — to looking ahead. So let’s go back and explain in detail. We had to tell the important part of the story — their unbelievable match — up front.

PKD RUNS IN THE FAMILY

Polycystic Kidney Disease, unfortunately, is hereditary. Erica’s mom had it, too, and was able to get to the age of 55 before it was evident she’s need a transplant. For Erica, the need arose at a much earlier age, 44, the age she is now. “My decline was much faster,” Erica says. “I was surprised it was all happening so fast. The doctor asked me if I was still good with my husband (jokingly). So the doctor then said it was time to start the process —

the evaluation — as to whether he would be a match.” So with the testing underway, the blood was crossmatched in a laboratory to see if would mix well together. Now, since one of the Rochas was a donor and the other a recipient, they had different transplant coordinators. “One day, his coordinator called looking for Steve, but he was at work,” Erica recalls. “He told me Steve is a match! I could get his kidney.” Wasting no time, Erica called Steve forthwith at work. She rarely does that, but in this case, it was a necessary exception to the norm. When she ultimately got Steve on the phone, he said, “Someone up there meant for us to be together.” The doctor wanted Erica, despite this great news, to hold onto her own kidneys for as long as possible. If the transplant didn’t take and she rejected the new organ from her husband, it would translate into laborious kidney dialysis on a regular basis. So as of now, Erica actually has three kidneys inside of her

— and all three are functioning properly. At present, tests reveal no signs of organ rejection. So if that all continues — and let’s all pray it does — she’ll hold onto her own until and when one shows signs of no longer being of function. Erica says since the surgery June 8, she’s felt some fatigue. But doctors have told her once she fully recovers, she won’t believe how much energy she’ll feel. In the interim, she couldn’t sing the praises of the staff at St. Barnabas enough. “Every single person, from the doctors to the nurses — everyone — went above and beyond. They became like family. They made me feel at home. One of the nurses was actually off the day I was discharged and I said to her, ‘So you’re not gonna be here when I leave?’” Steve’s recovery is expected to last about seven weeks. Eri-

ca’s, three months or more. And for now, she has to remain away from others because she’s on a regimen of immunosuppressant drugs that would make it much easier for her to get sick or develop infections. She’ll also take anti-rejection meds for the rest of her life. And, unfortunately, the woman who says she loves being at the lake — she has a home on Greenwood Lake she’s been going to since she was a kid — will no longer be able to just dive in anymore. “Freshwater lakes are off limits,” the doctor told her. The algae and bacteria would be too dangerous. She’ll be able to dip her feet into the lake, “But it’s just not the same,” she says. “I try to look on the bright side of things, but this one’s tough to get over.” But she says she knows she will get over it, because she’s blessed to be alive and in otherwise good health.

So for now, she’ll be spending time at home with Steve and daughters Sofia, 12, and Madelyn, 10. In fact, Sofia just graduated from middle school and the principal set up a special section for the family — away from everyone else in attendance — so they could attend. “This principal was just amazing,” she says. Another amazing person in Erica’s life is her sister-in-law, Evelyn Rocha Carson, of Kearny, Steve’s sister. “I’m 20 years older than Steven is,” Carson says. “Even though there is an age difference, we are very close. I’m so proud of him. He never thought twice about giving Erica his kidney. He always told me how much he loves her, and it shows. Not too many men would actually say that, but he did.” And everyone involved, especially Erica, is better off from it.

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Opinion....................................................................................Page 6

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

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

Classifieds .......................................................................Pages 16-18

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

Business Directory.................................................................Page 18

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Pincus prepares to part for Passaic Kearny’s Health Officer, who oversaw COVID-19 pandemic, leaving July 1

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

earny’s Health Officer is off to Passaic to do similar work. Ken Pincus, who led the town’s health department through the COVID-19 pandemic, will work his final day in town June 30. And not only did he oversee the town through the worst health crisis this nation has seen in a century, he was also instrumental in the complete renovation of the Walter J. Nicol Health Center on Kearny Avenue. Pincus reflected on his time here in Kearny as he prepares to move on for The Observer. He says it wasn’t easy

Outgoing Kearny Health Officer Ken Pincus is seen here at the rededication of the Kearny Health Department facility last month. He is leaving Kearny at the end of the month to take the same job in Passaic.

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to leave Kearny, especially since he now won’t really get the experience the fruits of his labor in the health department’s makeover. “Yes, it was difficult to leave Kearny especially after the renovations,” Pincus says. “Years of thought and planning went into the redevelopment of the building. I focused on designing a safe and functional environment for all our vaccination clinics, public health educational programs, services and events.” And, he says, it wasn’t always easy to be a health officer during the height of the COVID crisis, though he clearly fared well. “Working out of a tiny temporary office trailer located at 50 Belgrove Drive while managing the COVID-19 pandemic, food drives, health department renovations and all our many other public health services and events,” presented challenges, he says. And we asked him what his greatest accomplishments were while in Kearny. “If I had to select one of my greatest accomplishments, it was to ensure that the Kearny community quickly received the COVID-19 vaccines, personal protective equipment (PPE) and current health information and guidance throughout the pandemic. Providing

the community with the public health services they needed (was paramount.) Beginning with the addition of the Bigbelly solar trash compactors to the closure of the Keegan Landfill, renovating the Kearny Health Center and supplying COVID-19 vaccine and resources to the community during the pandemic,” he says. And though leaving will be bitter-sweet, he does so with many fond memories. He will most miss “The people, my staff, the Town of Kearny staff, administration and of course the residents of the Town of Kearny.” He says he hopes he’s remembered for being a driving force for change for the better, here, too. “Dedicating the renovated Kearny health Center to the residents of the Town of Kearny, first,” he says. “I am proud to be part of opening a new door to a building that can meet our current and future community public health needs. Whether for a pandemic, emergency response or additional public health services and events.” Meanwhile, Kearny Mayor Alberto G. Santos, who worked very closely with Pincus, especially over the last 18 months, says he’s certain he’ll do well in his new role in Passaic, but he’s still moved seeing him depart. “An effective local health department is essential to promoting a healthy community and protecting against outbreaks and diseases,” Santos says. “As Kearny’s Health Official, Ken Pincus has led our department through the most serious health challenge of our lifetimes. He ensured Kearny’s first responders had adequate personal protective equipment, even during the shortages of the early months of the pandemic, and he was key to having COVID-19 vaccination clinics in our community. I’m sad to see him move on, but I think he’s more than ready for the challenge of a larger municipality.”

Wednesday, June 30, 2021

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Cat photo Contest! part 1

second batch of kitties to be published along with ballot July 7!

1. AJAY

2. ATHENA

3. autumn

4. axel

5. baby kit

6. baccardi

7. bandit

8. beanie

9. bella

10. benito

11. benji

12. benny

13. Bolo

14. booboo

15. butterscotch

16. cassie & chloe

17. cheddar

18. chipotle & leo

19. chloe

20. cleo

21. desmond

22. dexter

23. diva

24. dracula

25. cleo

26. fraggle & siren

27. ginger & pepper

28. hunter

29. ice pearl

30. indy

31. jack

32. jersey girl

33. john paul

34. kaycee

35. kiwi

36. laila

37. lb

38. leo

39. leo

40. lily

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Thoughts & Views EDITORIAL

Resident poets at Washington MS The Kearny Women’s Club Poetry Contest took place recently and several students from Washington Middle School, Harrison, fared well. Two of the students returned to school in person and one was still virtually learning. Eighth-grader Dylan Santos took second place overall with a poem entitled ‘Togetherness-a Poem of What We Used to Be.’ He is not pictured. Third place went to eighth-grader Sophia Molina, right, for an untitled poem and Honorable Mention went to eighth-grader Nitpreet Singh, left, for a poem called ‘Rise Up.’

We’ve got a lot to be thankful for this 4th of July

ne year ago, the nation and the world was in the midst of a period no one saw coming. There was no vaccine. There was no end in sight. No one had a clue what the future held. And yet here we are, one year later, with a lot more clarity and a lot to be thankful for, indeed. First, COVID-19 itself. At last report, New Jersey saw 191 new cases and three reported deaths. A few days earlier, for the first time since reporting began in early 2020, the state actually had a day where no deaths were reported. Thinking back to when there were hundreds of deaths being reported daily, having a 24-hour period with no reported deaths once seemed impossible. Yet it has become a reality. New cases were once coming in at an alarming rate, sometimes thousands in a single day. And while any new case of COVID is extremely sad, that that number is down to below is 200 is extraordinary, nearly unfathomable at one point. Last summer, the thought of having a traditional warm-weather season was impossible. Indoor dining still wasn’t happening at this point in 2020. Outdoor dining was in fashion, but it was hardly a full-proof solution for restaurateurs. Now, one year later, eateries are back at 100% capacity. One year ago, Yankee Stadium and Citi Field were filled with cut-out, cardboard representations of fans. Now, crowds of 42,000 or more are possible in the Bronx and Queens and just about everywhere in Major League Baseball. One year after many of the worst times any of us have ever experienced, we are on the precipice of being able to say we’re back to where we once were. Sure, it might not look exactly like it did before we heard the word “coronavirus” for the first time, but it’s nothing like it was 365 days ago. And so as we celebrate the 245th birthday of America, there sure is a lot more to celebrate and to be grateful for. Oh what a relief that is.

Boyd: If you need ID to get on an Amtrak Train, you should need to show it to vote To the Editor: Voter ID or no voter ID — that is an ongoing question. Opponents of voter ID claim racism, voter suppression, interference of voting rights. Proponents believe ID improves ballot security and election integrity. Listed below are examples of daily situations involving or requiring ID. Collecting reserved Amtrack tickets. Train tickets reminding passengers to show ID. Plane travel. Entrance to college campuses. Entrance to commercial/ business buildings. Entrance

to government entities. The Navy Research Lab requires photo ID & citizenship proof. Doctors’ offices scan and record patient photo ID. High schools require student and staff ID. At times, library membership requires numerous forms of ID. Entrance to political conventions require ID. DMV visits require six or more forms of ID. Dog licenses, death certificates, marriage licenses require ID. Are these requirements suppressing reading, travel, education, research, medical care? Compare the importance

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.

of a dog license to voting in a national or state election. Voter ID could prevent the dead from voting early and often. It minimizes voters taking advantage of unpurged voting rolls. Municipalities provide IDs for residents and non-drivers. To insinuate that some groups cannot acquire IDs insults the intelligence of all citizens. Voting is a hard-won privilege. Voter ID maintains ballot integrity and our nation’s principles. Addie Boyd Kearny

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

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KPD: Unwanted driveway dweller was wanted elsewhere By Capt. Tim Wagner Kearny Police Department On June 20 at 2:44 a.m., Capt. Dave Feldhan, Sgt. Chris Levchak and Officers Lawrence Latka and Ruben Rivera responded to a residence on Harrison Avenue on a report of a suspicious man in the driveway. The homeowner reported he received an alert on his home camera system. When the homeowner viewed his footage, he says he saw a man pacing in his driveway clapping his hands, who then sat on a retaining wall abutting the driveway. Capt. Feldhan quickly located the peculiarly-behaving man, who had by then walked to the intersection of Harrison and Bergen avenues. The man told the captain he had been walking home, but deviated from his path, to buy some “water pops” before stopping at the complainant’s home for no apparent reason. While taking in this story, officers learned the water pop-seeker, Isaiah J. Zellars,

25, of Newark, was wanted on an arrest warrant issued by his home city’s court and carrying a $750 bail. Zellars was taken into custody, but was later liberated when Newark authorities released him on his own recognizance with a newly scheduled court date. On June 23 at 3:14 p.m., Officers Ryan Stickno, Mat Lopez and Ryan Brady were dispatched to Walgreens at 248 Kearny Ave. on a report of two men shoplifting. Officer Brady arrived first and broadcast the store manager’s report that the alleged thieves left the store and one was in a Bergen Avenue residential backyard. Officer Stickno, while receiving this radio dispatch, saw a man matching the shoplifter’s description jumping fences between backyards on Bergen Avenue, on the move toward Chestnut Street. Officer Stickno stopped the fence jumper upon him reaching Chestnut Street. The officer immediately noticed the man was carrying a bag full of

Dove soap products and had small cuts on his hand, presumably inflicted by the fences he scaled. After further investigation, the officers arrested Eric Warren, 53, of Newark, on a charge of shoplifting $99.89 of Dove soap products. Officers also learned Warren was also wanted by the Harrison Court on two arrest warrants, each carrying $1,000 bail. He was

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on multiple occasions while instructing the child in music. As a result of the investigation, on June 22, 2021, Valladares was arrested in Kearny by Lyndhurst Det. Chris Cuneo and charged with one count of second-degree sexual assault by sexual contact and one count of third-degree endangering the welfare of a child, Musella said. Valladares was remanded to the Bergen County Jail, Hackensack, pending his first appearance in Central Judicial Processing Court. The Bergen County Sheriff’s Office’s inmate website reveals Valladares is a citizen of Venezuela and as such, it appears the FBI has issued a detainer order on Valladares, meaning he is likely not in the United States legally.

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51, of Newark, was wanted by the Essex County Sheriff on a no-bail warrant and by the Kearny Court on a shoplifting warrant carrying a $600 bail. Incident to his arrest, officers found seven glassine folds of heroin labeled “The Beast” on Smith. He was charged with possession of heroin and drug paraphernalia and also remanded to the county jail.

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Kearny man busted on child sex crimes in Lyndhurst

A Kearny man has been arrested and charged with sex crimes following an investigation conducted by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and the Lyndhurst Police Department, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said last week. Fernando Valladares, 57, Kearny, a married music instructor, was charged with sexual assault by sexual contact and endangering the welfare of a child, Musella said. According to Musella: On Thursday, June 17, 2021, the BCPO received information from the Lyndhurst Police Department that Valladares allegedly engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct with a child, a girl under the age of 13, while he was in Lyndhurst. The BCPO Special Victim’s Unit and the Lyndhurst Police Department initiated an investigation, during which it was learned Valladares engaged in the alleged conduct

later transferred to the Hudson County Jail, South Kearny. Meanwhile, Officer Brady located the second man walking on Bergen Avenue. A review of store surveillance video showed he had been in the company of Warren, but had not himself stolen any merchandise. However, while investigating the circumstances of the incident, officers learned the second man, Jeffrey Smith,

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

LOSS

Continued from Page 1 response to a citizen’s similar request for details. “Thank you for your patience,” Morrill wrote to Observer co-owner Lisa M. Feorenzo and at least one citizen we’re aware of . “We certainly understand the concern particularly when it comes to the death of a child or an infant. However, the investigation has to take its proper course and that is the priority. I am sure you can understand the need of the medical examiner to be thorough and complete. “Forensics involving infants and children are among the most complex. When we have additional information to release, we will make it available.” Previously, the responses would say the case is still under investigation, pending findings of the medical examiner. So this, of course, begs the

A screenshot of an email sent to Morrill by Feorenzo on June 9, 2021.

question — if this is still in the hands of the ME’s office, and if the baby’s been released into the custody of his family — what, therefore, is the delay. One source with information relating to the case, who cannot be identified since they are unauthorized to speak about the case — says the medical examiner who was handling the baby’s autopsy retired in the middle of it and left the investigation incomplete. We have not been

able to officially verify this information. In the meantime, social media, especially Facebook, has become a cesspool of innuendo, false statements, inaccurate comments and outlandish accusations, most notably that there’s a vast conspiracy to cover up the details of this case. This simply isn’t true. “I’ve made calls, I’ve sent emails and it’s always the same thing,” Feorenzo said. “But the reality of the

situation is that I am just as frustrated at the snail’s pace this is taking. But we have to remember — this isn’t an ordinary time. We’re still dealing with the effects of a pandemic. I believe if this had happened in 2019 instead of 2020, there would have been a resolution already in the same time frame, if not quicker. But it wasn’t 2019. It happened when it happened and it’s important to get it right rather than fast.” Feorenzo also says she’s equally disappointed by accusations being made on social media of a coverup. “Who is covering what up?” Feorenzo said. “Honestly, you can’t cover up information unless you possess that information. And until that information is released by the proper authority, in this case the HCPO, there is nothing to

cover up. To say that on social media is ridiculous. And it’s irresponsible. As a newspaper, the rules of the road are a lot different than the rules of social media. “If someone made a seriously false accusation and we printed it, we could be sued for libel, and something like that could effectively end us as a legitimate newsgathering organization. What someone says online isn’t subject to those same rules. “This is what happens when people think they know what happened. The truth is, only the people involved know for now. And even if people believe they have the details, until they are official, they will not be reported in my newspaper. It’s always been that way and it will continue to be that way moving forward, regardless of what the public yearn s for. “I’ve been part of this community for 40+ years now, so I understand situations arise where the public has the right to know. “But this is not about people and personal relationships we have with them. It’s about getting the information right and being patient about it. “This is not a crime TV show where everything is condensed into a 42-minute program with instant gratification. “This is reality.”

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

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Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Kearny’s Osorio reﬂects on crazy college year at Moravian Needless to say, it wasn’t the most conventional college freshman year for Kearny native Samantha Osorio at Moravian College in Pennsylvania. Osorio, the 2019-2020 Observer Female Athlete of the Year out of Kearny High School, had to endure the pandemic-stricken school year at Moravian, one that resulted in just 10 games played. “The adjustment to college life was difficult, especially because of the pandemic,” said Osorio, one of the best all-around players to ever come out of Kearny High. “I couldn’t see friends. I couldn’t go out. I was totally quarantined. I got tested three times a week. So all of that did take some getting used to. I was able to go to some classes.” But 10 games doesn’t exactly make a season. It’s more like an extended scrimmage period. “It was really difficult,” Osorio said. “In the beginning, I had no clue what I was doing. I had to be up for the challenge.” As it turned out, Osorio was definitely ready for the challenge, averaging almost 10 points per game and 7.5 rebounds per outing. She recorded career-highs with 19 points and 11 rebounds, ironically at Drew, a school that was recruiting Osorio

out of high school. Osorio shot an outstanding 52 percent from the floor. Twice, Osorio was named the Landmark Conference Rookie of the Week. Although Osorio is able to retain her status as a freshman at Moravian, it’s doubtful that she will be eligible to receive any rookie awards this season because she played 10 games. But Osorio still has four years of basketball at Moravian, a place where Osorio is comfortable and loves playing basketball and going to school. “I really enjoyed the year,” Osorio said. “I couldn’t miss out on the year. I didn’t hesitate or second guess myself. I wasn’t going to allow the pandemic to just stand in my way. I was able to stay on top of everything.” Osorio admitted that she was indeed a little nervous before her first game against Lancaster Bible College. “The first game, I had no idea who was going to start,” Osorio said. “But then, I saw my name on this tape with the starting five’s name on it. I could almost cry. I had no clue whatsoever about starting.” Once the game started, Osorio showed no nervous jitters, scoring 14 points in See VIEW, Page 11

Lyndhurst’s Martin presented with Observer Female Athlete of Year

Becomes fourth Golden Bear girl to receive honor

Photo courtesy of Jim Hague

Carley Martin (center left) receives the 2020-2021 Observer Female Athlete of the Year award from Observer sportswriter Jim Hague. From left are Lyndhurst athletic director Jeﬀ Radigan; Lyndhurst High School principal Laura Vuono; Michelle and Chuck Martin, Carley’s parents; Hague, Carley Martin, head softball coach Sara Fusco, head girls’ basketball coach Perrin Mosca, assistant superintendent of schools Joseph DeCorso and vice principal Frank Venezia.

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

LYNDHURST – There was always a connection between Carley Martin and Camila Alonso, going back to the days when Martin was just becoming a teenager and Alonso was breaking all kinds of scoring records at Lyndhurst High School. You see, Martin’s father, Chuck, the former boys’ basketball coach at Lyndhurst, used to run a basketball camp that Alonso regularly attended. That was all that young Carley needed as an inspiration to attend her father’s camp. You see, young Carley used to look up to Alonso back then some eight years ago. “Camila was my absolute idol growing up,” Martin said in an interview last March. “I remember her teaching me how to do drop steps and up-and-unders. I wanted to do whatever she did. I was absolutely obsessed with her. I wanted her fame and I

wanted her glory.” There was another aspect to Alonso’s game that intrigued Martin. Alonso was the last Lyndhurst girl to reach the prestigious 1,000-point plateau. That is, before Martin achieved the goal that she wanted to have since third grade. Four years ago, when Martin was still in grade school, she was approached by some of the local private high schools to see if Carley would attend there. No chance. “I wanted to play where my father once coached,” Martin said. “I remember going to practices with him when I was a little girl. I was the one who had the ball in my hands all the time. I always said that I wanted to be in Lyndhurst.” Martin wanted to do what her idol did in high school. Last week, Martin added another item in her attempts to be like Camila Alonso. Martin picked up The Observer Female Athlete of the Year award, becoming only the fourth Lyndhurst High product to receive the

year-end honor, and Martin became the first basketball player to receive the honor since Alonso received it in 2013. The other Golden Bears to receive the year-end honor from The Observer are Cassie Indri in 2008-2009 and Giulia Pezzolla, who won the award in 2018-2019. Martin, who was also a fine softball player to go along with her historic basketball skills, received her award last week from this sports writer with her parents, coaches and school officials present. “This means everything to me,” Martin said. “It’s the best news I’ve received all year. To get recognized this way it’s amazing. I honestly didn’t think I had a chance. I had no idea what the criteria was and should I be in the running.” The Observer’s Athlete of the Year (the male honoree will be featured next week) is given to the female and male athletes who perform their best in more than one varsity sport and conduct themselves See MARTIN, Page 10

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THE OBSERVER FEMALE ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

MARTIN

Continued from Page 9 in a professional manner. Martin’s first love was of course basketball, especially having a coach for a father. “Dad is definitely the one who pushed me to this,” Martin said of her father. “All of my accomplishments and honors should go to him. I couldn’t be half as accomplished as I am without him. People would argue with me because Dad was so hard on me. But now I appreciate all he did. I never would have been the sixth Lyndhurst girl to get to 1,000 points or the fourth Lyndhurst girl to receive this award.” Martin said that her love of basketball just grew and grew from the time she was four years old. “I think I was always his little boy at heart,” Martin said. “We spent so much time shooting and working on things. I really owe it all to him.” Martin averaged 19.3 points this season for the Golden Bears, who went 9-6 in the truncated schedule caused by the pandemic.

2004-2005 Janine Davis, Queen of Peace 2005-2006 Kelly Rauco, Nutley 2006-2007 Courtney Keegan, Queen of Peace 2007-2008 Allyson Dyl, Kearny 2008-2009 Cassie Indri, Lyndhurst 2009-2010 Tara Fisher, North Arlington 2010-2011 Janitza Aquino, Kearny 2011-2012 Stefanie Gomes, Kearny 2012-2013 Camila Alonso, Lyndhurst 2013-2014 Grace Montgomery, Nutley and Nicole Kelly, Kearny 2014-2015 Carly Anderson, Nutley 2015-2016 Amber Crispin, Kearny 2016-2017 Lily Durning, Kearny 2017-2018 Meagan McClelland, Kearny 2018-2019 Giulia Pezzolla, Lyndhurst 2019-2020 Samantha Osorio, Kearny 2020-2021 Carley Martin, Lyndhurst

Photo courtesy of Jim Hague

Carley Martin, the 2020-2021 Observer Female Athlete of the Year, receives her award from Observer sportswriter Jim Hague.

“She progressed tremendously,” said Lyndhurst head girls’ basketball coach Perrin Mosca. “She was a huge focus for our offense, but she handled it well. Everything we did, we ran through her. We wanted her to do things we really didn’t need her to do. But she handled everything.” She scored her 1,000th point on Senior Day – with just two games remaining in the season. Martin then joined the softball team this season, after sitting out the previous two

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campaigns. “I used to play softball a lot,” said Martin, who wrote a poem in tribute to her former pitching coach Jim MacDonald, after “Coach Mac” passed away suddenly seven years ago. It was that poem and tribute to Coach Mac that enabled Martin to first gain recognition in The Observer. “All my friends played softball,” Martin said. “My best friends are Gianna Alberti and Alexa Borino and they encouraged me to play. I figured I could help them out.” Martin became the starting right fielder and had 18 RBI batting most of the season in the No. 9 position in the lineup. The Golden Bears won the Liberty Division of the North Jersey Interscholastic Conference championship and advanced all the way to the North Jersey Section 2, Group II semifinals, posting a 19-7 record.

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“She was a great addition,” said Lyndhurst head softball coach Sara Fusco. “She’s a lefty and we had a position in right field open. She handled that well. Carley was also 100 percent a leader on the team as a senior. That was super important to our success. She never let the little things bother her. She was smiling all the time. I never had the chance to coach Carley before this year. I never had her in class. But I got to know her well this year and she was wonderful to have. She’s definitely going to be missed.” Martin is off to Misericordia University in Pennsylvania in the fall, where she will play basketball. She will major in government with a possibility

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of law school on the horizon. Maybe she will work in homeland security. She doesn’t truly know just yet. One thing is for sure. She’s a Lyndhurst girl, through and through. “I will always be a Lyndhurst girl at heart,” Martin said. “Lyndhurst will always be a big part of me. I think I was able to make the most of my time in high school. I made lifelong friendships and relationships that I will always remember. I will never forget where I came from. All in all, I feel like I’ve left my mark.” And left a legacy for other girls to try to achieve or possibly surpass. That will be up to the next Carley Martin.

Wednesday, June 30, 2021

her debut. “I don’t think I was psyching myself out, thinking there was a big change from high school to college,” Osorio said. “I knew I could do it. The first game, I had my teammates and coaches helping me. They made me play carefree.” Osorio knew that there were aspects to her game that needed to be worked on. For one, she is no longer relegated to playing bigger than her 5-foot-9 frame. The coaching staff at Moravian has Osorio playing out on the wing, where she can run the floor freely and cause more damage. Running and especially jumping are Osorio’s two biggest assets. No other female can jump the way Osorio does with her quick feet and strong legs. “I did jell with my teammates from the very first day,” Osorio said. “We hit it off, both on and off the court.” Osorio has spent the last few weeks at home in Kearny, playing a lot of hoops in the Osorio driveway with younger sister

Photo by Jim Hague

A year ago, Samantha Osorio (right) received her Observer Female Athlete of the Year award and another former Observer Female Athlete of the Year Stefanie Gomes (left) was on hand for the presentation. Osorio completed a successful freshman campaign at Moravian College, where she was named the Landmark Conference Rookie of the Week twice.

Nathalie, a rising junior on the Kearny High squad. Osorio has also been playing with her Moravian teammates in a summer league that Osorio

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travels to play twice a week. That’s two hours there, then the game, and finally two hours back home. “It’s a good workout,” Osorio said. “I take advantage of that any chance I get. I don’t think it’s too far of a drive.” Osorio is majoring in health science and occupational therapy at Moravian. She will remain in Kearny until the end of August. “I can’t wait to go back and play a full season,” Osorio said. “Getting those 10 games in really helped me. But I want to get back to normal. I have to take what I learned in those 10 games and just improve on what I did. I’m really excited about it. We’ll get to travel this year and we won’t have to wear masks. Once we get back to school, I’ll be able to pick up where I left off, lifting weights together. It’s going to be exciting.” As long as Sam Osorio continues to do what she does best, which is being Sam Osorio.

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Belleville promotes & hires new firefighters

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

here were hugs, handshakes and even a few tears of joy Thursday, June 17, as several valiant veterans of the Belleville Fire Department received well-earned promotions. The emotional ceremony — which was attended by more than 200 friends and family members — also included the swearing in of six new firefighters to the ranks. “To the new firefighters, we welcome you into this proud department

Belleville’s newest firefighters. and urge you to make the most of your training,” Fire Chief John Olivieri said. “And to the officers receiving promotions, we are confident that your experience will serve you well in your new roles.” Deputy Mayor Thomas Graziano said Belleville has always taken pride in the fire department and its long history of heroic service dating back to 1882. “You have a unique talent and skill which keeps Belleville residents safe and I want to personally thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Graziano said during the ceremony at Belleville High School’s auditorium. “Keep up the great work and be safe.” Richard Cavanagh and Scott Wentworth were promoted to deputy chief, Scott Dupont and Michael McGreevy were promoted to battalion chief and Ralph Chimento and Erich Hochstuhl were promoted

to captain. Michael Corino was also promoted to lieutenant, while Robert Knowles, Treyvon Blunt, Michael Cayli, Scott Dupont, Dat Khong and Alex Fuentes were sworn in as firefighters. Accountability and preparedness have long been hallmarks of the Belleville Fire Department. For example, when New York City officials were considering increasing the training of FDNY firefighters, they came to Belleville, where there is superior training in firefighting and EMS lifesaving skills. Although the members of the Belleville Fire Department are accustomed to rushing into danger, the COVID-19 pandemic posed an unprecedented challenge. In fact, the ceremony was delayed until mass vaccinations allowed it to be conducted in a safer manner. “Unlike a fire, you can’t see, smell or feel a pandemic,” Township Manager Anthony Iacono said. “And I know that I speak for the entire Township Council when I say the way this department conducted itself in the last 16 months under the leadership of Chief John Olivieri has been simply remarkable. “This department continues to meet and surpass expectations in professionalism and service to the people of Belleville.”

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Obituaries

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

JUDITH MILLROY

Judith Millroy (nee Thompson), 81 of Kunkletown Pennsylvania, died June 22, 2021, surrounded by her loving family in her home. She was of the Methodist faith. Judy worked as an administrative assistant for Hartz Mountain in Harrison prior to relocating to Naples, Florida, where she was employed by Publix. Upon retirement, she returned to Pennsylvania to be closer and near her family. Judy was predeceased by her childhood sweetheart and love of her life, Robert D. Millroy, her beloved son, James R. Millroy, a sister, Jean Burger and two granddaughters, Amanda Millroy and Melissa Pearl Luty. She is survived by her children, Lynda Messerschmidt of Saylorsburg Pennsylvania, Michael Millroy of Henryville, Pennsylvania, Robert Millroy of Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania, Christine Hardie of Brodheadville, Pennsylvania, Patricia McCurrie of Kearny, David Millroy of Henryville, Pennsylvania and Joseph Millroy of Kunkletown, Pennsylvania. Judy is also survived by her sisters, Thelma Thompson of Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania, and Sharon Hughes of Cliffwood Beach, as well as 13 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, many beloved nieces and nephews and many friends. She will be sorely missed by everyone who loved and

admired her. Cremation will be private and is entrusted to William H. Kresge Funeral Home. A celebration of life will take place at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital or to a charity of your choice.

THOMAS SCHULZE

Thomas Schulze, 59, of Belford, died peacefully on June 21, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Kearny, Thomas graduated from Kearny High School in 1979. His love of the ocean and fishing led him to settle in Belford more than 28 years ago, and his home in Belford is a loving testament to his skills as an all-around handyman, carpenter and gardener. Thomas recently retired from the U.S. Postal Service, where he had worked as a maintenance mechanic for 35 years. Thomas was a generous, loving man, and those who knew him were recipients of his good humor, patient listening and sensible counsel. Thomas knew what he wanted in life and always worked hard to achieve it. Always most central to him was his family, not only encompassing his immediate family — his childhood sweetheart and wife of 34 years, Roseann, his three boys, Thomas, James and Mark, of whom he was extremely proud, his first grandson and latest joy Carter,

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his seven brothers and sisters, his numerous in-laws, and all of their children — but also extending the range of family broadly to include his many longtime friends, his children’s friends and his neighbors in Belford. Thomas was a natural teacher, who was generous in sharing his knowledge and skills. His love of fishing was legendary but equally important to him was introducing his sons, his nephews and his nieces to the pleasures of angling. He could never resist a game of cribbage and was a fierce player, but he was always willing to take the time to initiate others into the intricacies of the game. He loved his garden and working in his garden with his sons. Thomas was also an avid reader, an excellent problemsolver, a rational thinker (although, against all reason, he was a lifelong Mets fan) and

a longtime Deadhead. Thomas was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Madeline Schulze. Surviving Thomas are his beloved wife, Roseann (Pisani); his son Thomas Jr. and his wife Corinne, his son James and his fiancé Lauren, and his son Mark; his siblings Mary Torres, Linda Schulze, Kathy Schlagenhaft, Diane Schulze, Patricia Schulze, Howard J. Schulze and Joseph Schulze; and numerous loving in-laws, cousins, nephews and nieces. Visitation was at John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, 115 Tindall Road, Middletown. Funeral services were at the funeral home. Burial was in Bayview Cemetery, Leonardo.

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Lorraine was the mother of two children, Barbara and Kristine. Continued from Page 13 Lorraine was a successful businesswoman who owned Fernandez Jr., 82, of Kearny, the Lincoln Card & Gift Shop died June 22, 2021. in the 1970s and 1980s in A graveside service was North Arlington, before she celebrated in Holy Cross Cem- and Bob moved to Nutley, and etery, North Arlington, as was then Little Egg Harbor. his burial. Lorraine and Bob moved to Born in Newark, Joe was Las Vegas in the late 1990s to raised there before becoming escape the cold winters and a longtime Kearny resident. to be closer to their daughter, He was the owner/operator of Kristine. Lorraine loved her Fernandez Distributors, and home, mystery and crime drawas well known and loved as mas, crossword puzzles, video “Joe the Bread Man.” poker, “Seinfeld” and other Joe loved cars, owning 82 of classic sitcoms. them throughout his life. Lorraine was also a pasA devoted husband, Joe sionate lover of all animals, lovingly cared for his wife especially cats, and supported through the last seven years many organizations over the of her life. He most cherished years that worked to end the time spent with his family, and cruelty of and neglect for relaxing with a fine cigar. animals. Joe was the beloved husShe made the best Italian band of 45 years to the late red sauce and cheeseburgDolly Fernandez; loving father ers, and always cooked up her of Karen Ferrara (Chris), family recipes for her daughJeffrey Fernandez (Laura), ter to take home. Joedy Stahl (Dan), Mary ElLorraine is survived by her len Fernandez, and the late daughter, Kristine. Laura Lake (Angela); adoring Her funeral will be a private grandfather of Joey, Anthony, ceremony for family members. Jordon, Lisa, Zechariah and In lieu of flowers, donations Emily; and dear brother of may be made in her memory Leona Fernandez. to the Humane Society or the ASPCA.

Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Archdiocese of Newark during his ministry. He began at St. Charles Borromeo Church in JANET A. GREER Newark. He thereafter served Janet A. at St. Boniface in Jersey City Greer, 74, born and and Immaculate Heart of raised in Mary/St. Patrick in Elizabeth. Kearny, died In 1971, he was appointed suddenly co-pastor of Our Lady of Help on June 20, of Christians Church in West 2021. New York, which eventually She is surbecame St. Mary’s Church, vived by her where innovative counseling brother Alex Greer Jr., nieces, and community service numerous cousins in New practices were implemented, Jersey and lifelong friends. which are still practiced today. Janet worked as a nurse for Thereafter, he served at St. 10 years, followed by a career Michael in Jersey City and in computer programming at then returned to St. Boniface Verizon before retirement. A in 1979 as pastor. After a fivelong time animal lover of all year pastorship at St. Boniface, kinds, Janet especially was he was named pastor of Our filled with joy seeing her Lady of Good Counsel in Newbeloved “Bonnie,” a rescue dog ark for 11 years, after which he GLORIA F. ROBERTSON she had for 17 years. Gloria F. Robertson (nee had pastorships at Our Lady Most of her summers were Gennace) of Kearny died June Queen of Peace in Maywood spent tending to her vegetable and Blessed Sacrament in 21, 2021. and flower garden plot off She was 74. Elizabeth, followed by a return Courthouse Road in Vienna, Visitation for Gloria was at to Immaculate Heart of Mary/ Virginia. the Armitage & Wiggins FuSt. Patrick in Elizabeth as She was an avid cross word neral Home, Kearny. A funeral pastor. puzzler, soccer fan and bread service was celebrated in the On May 22, 1991, he was funeral home. Burial was in maker with a specialty in Scot- named a Monsignor by Pope Arlington Cemetery in Kearny. tish Shortbread cookies. (now Saint) John Paul II. In Born in Jersey City, Gloria There was no visitation. 1999, he returned to Our Lady was a lifelong Kearny resident. Services and interment were of Good Counsel as pastor She worked for Scheringprivate. through 2005, capping a total Plough as a clinical trials Donations may be made of 17 years of pastorship at Our coordinator for 33 years, and to an animal rescue of your Lady of Good Counsel. LORRAINE SCHWARZ later as a consultant until her choice in Janet’s name. He had served as monsignor Lorraine retirement. Gloria was a lifeELIZABETH MCMILLAN Arrangements were by the and a resident at Our Lady of Schwarz of long devoted and active mem- Neely Funeral Home, GlenElizabeth McMillan (nee Czestochowa Church, HarriLas Vegas ber of the Christian Apostolic Taylor) died Sunday, June 20, shaw, Pennsylvania, at www. son, since 2011. died June 8, Church in Kearny. 2021, at Jersey Shore Univerneelyfuneralhome.com. Beginning with his first 2021, after a The daughter of the late Ansity Medical Center, Neptune. assignment, Msgr. Plunkett brief illness. thony and Jenny (nee Cervalo) She was 94. REV. MSGR. JOSEPH J. had a pastoral life centered She was Gennace, Gloria was the beThe funeral was from the PLUNKETT almost exclusively on Hispan85. loved wife of Bruce Robertson; Thiele-Reid Family Funeral The Rev. Msgr. Joseph J. ic parishes. Not surprisingly, Born in Home, Kearny. A funeral Mass loving mother of John Greene Plunkett of Harrison died Msgr. Plunkett, a child of Irish Jersey City, and Jeanette Robertson, ador- peacefully at Peace Care St. was celebrated at St. Cecilia immigrants, embraced HisLorraine was the daughter of ing grandmother of Angelina Church, Kearny. Interment Ann’s in Jersey City on June panic culture and very quickly Polish immigrants, and the and Miabella, and dear sister was in Holy Cross Cemetery, 21, 2021. became fluent in the Spanish youngest of five daughters. of Jeann Cure. North Arlington. He was 87. language. In 1956, Lorraine married Born in Harrison, Elizabeth In lieu of flowers, donaBorn and raised in Kearny, He never wavered in his Robert “Bob” Schwarz. They later lived in Kearny, then tions in her memory may be he was a cradle parishioner of affinity for and commitment were married for 50 years North Arlington before movmade to the Christian AposSt. Cecilia Church where he to that community and was afuntil Bob’s death in 2006. ing to Tinton Falls in 2019. tolic Church, 219 Laurel Ave. received and completed his fectionately called “Tío” by his sacraments. Msgr. Plunkett nephews and niece. graduated from St. Cecilia Msgr. Plunkett grew up High School in 1950. He vacationing every summer received his undergraduate at the Jersey Shore with his degree in 1954 and subsefamily. For his entire life, he NORTH ARLINGTON • NJ 07031 quently his master’s degree of shared his time at the shore divinity, both from Seton Hall with his extended family and University, South Orange. He many friends. It was truly his also later earned a doctorate. happy place. He was ordained a priest Msgr. Plunkett is survived May 28, 1960, and celebrated by his sister Mary Cardillo of his first solemn Mass on May Tampa, Florida, sister-in-law Analysis for Purchase & Refinance! 29, 1960, in his home church, Marilyn Plunkett of Rockaway; St. Cecilia of Kearny. nephews Brian (Arlene) and ROB PEZZOLLA • NMLS# 266181 • ROB@ KEYPOINTMORTGAGE.COM Msgr. Plunkett served many Continued on the next page parishes throughout the

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Mrs. McMillan is survived by three daughters, Catherine Boyes (Ian), Elizabeth Maroldi (Jim) and Mary Starace (Anthony Calabrese), three sisters, Rose Tallent, Catherine Kennedy, and Margaret Donahue. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Meredith, Kirsten (Mike), David (Catherine), Keith, Megan, Daniel (Danielle), Sean and Susan and six great-grandchildren, Max, Logan, Luke, Lila, Charlotte and Miles. Elizabeth was predeceased by her husband, David McMillan in 1999 and her son, David McMillan in 2012, three brothers, Robert Taylor, Daniel Taylor and John Taylor and one sister, Anna Murin.

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021 Continued from previous page Christopher (Candace) Plunkett, and nephews Peter (Reba), Paul (Michelle), Matthew (Stephanie), Mark (Paula), Luke (Diana), John (Seana) and David (Deirdre) Cardillo. He is also survived by his only niece Mary Jane Cardillo (Bobby), 17 grand nieces and nephews, and four great-grand nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Mary Plunkett, his aunt and godmother Kathryn Burke Monahan, brother Oliver Plunkett and nephew Thomas Plunkett. An viewing will occur on Tuesday, June 29, after 9:30

DELACRUZ

Continued from Page 1 Enduring Freedom, achieving the rank of Corporal (E-4). Following her military service, Liz joined the Harrison Police Department and served her community for the last three years. She was a member of PBA Local No. 22, Harrison. She attended Hudson County Community College and received an associate degree in liberal arts in 2014. Following HCCC, she attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York City, and received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 2016 — and then a master’s degree in public administration in 2020. Liz’s favorite pastimes included traveling, dancing, working out and making memories with her daughter, Adelyn. Word of Liz’s death spread immediately one week ago. Universally, the reaction was

a.m. at St. Cecilia Church, 120 Kearny Ave., Kearny. Afterward, a funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at St. Cecilia Church. His final disposition will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, 115 S. Third St., Harrison, N.J. 07029 or Peace Care St. Ann’s, 198 Old Bergen Road No. 2622, Jersey City, N.J. 07305, where Msgr. Plunkett served as a founding member of the board of directors. If you would like to send a condolence message to his family, please visit www.mulliganfh.com.

family, please visit www.mulliganfh.com. Born in Clara Maass MediStanley A. “Stan” Shimkus of cal Center, Belleville, Stan was Hopatcong died peacefully at raised and lived in Kearny home on Friday, June 25, 2021. before he moved to HopatHe was 51. cong seven years ago. He The funeral will be congraduated from Lincoln Tech ducted from the Mulligan and the Teterboro School of Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Aeronautics after graduating Ave., Harrison, Friday, July 2, from Kearny High School. at 9:15 a.m. A funeral Mass will He worked as a maintenance be celebrated at Holy Cross mechanic for the US Postal Church, Harrison, at 10 a.m. Service at the Dominick V. His interment will follow in Daniels Processing and DistriHillside Cemetery, Lyndhurst. bution Center for 20+ years. Friends and relatives may In his free time, he loved to visit Thursday, July 1, from 4 work with his hands and build to 8 p.m. and Friday morning things, as he was very gifted after 8:45 a.m. at creating things. His family If you would like to send was very important to him and a condolence message to his any chance he had to spend

time with them was cherished. Anyone who met or knew him, knew he had a heart of gold. He is survived by his beloved parents, Stanley and Mary Shimkus Jr., a loving sister, Laura Martone and her husband, Dave, cherished nephew and niece Ryan Villalta and his fiancé Heather and Nancy Godzwon and her husband, Andrew, his dear great-nephew Ryan James Villalta and his uncle George Monahan and his wife Barbara. He was predeceased by his nephew, Victor Alex Villalta. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Heart Association in care of the funeral home in loving memory of Stanley.

of shock and utter sadness. It began with a simple notice on social media from the Harrison Police Department. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Police Officer Elizabeth Delacruz, No. 980,” the post read. “Officer Delacruz served in the United States Marine Corp, (was) a Harrison Police Officer and a devoted mother. She served her country and her community with pride and passion. Her bright smile and contagious laugh will be deeply missed. Rest in the sweetest peace Officer Delacruz and watch over us all.” Harrison Mayor James A. Fife says he was involved with Elizabeth’s hiring three years ago — and the decision to bring her on board is one no one regrets. “She was a fine officer and people loved her,” Fife said. “She always had a smile on her face. When she came on board, she fell right in with the police department. She worked

mostly at night, but whenever I saw her, she’d always go out of her way to say ‘hello.’ This is a tremendous loss for our town. Harrison Councilman Larry Bennett says Officer Delacruz was one-of-a-kind. “She was just beautiful on the outside and the inside,” Bennett said of the veteran police officer. “No matter where

Marisol Perez, a 16-year Harrison resident, recalled how Officer Delacruz helped her during a particularly bad patch in her life. “I was going through so much personally,” Perez said. “But I got to know Liz just from the neighborhood. There were

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STANLEY A. ‘STAN’ SHIMKUS

I saw her, no matter what she was doing, she would always take the time to say ‘hello’ and to chat. The thing is, she always went beyond the call of duty — and she was always helping someone, always doing something good for the people of Harrison. “I’m in shock. Shock. I’m going to miss her … we all are.”

Story concludes on Page 19

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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.

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Technical Assistant to the Construction Code Official Part Time Under the Direction of the Construction Official provides technical assistance in the issuance of construction permits to ensure compliance with the provisions of the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code. Successful applicant should possess a current New Jersey Technical Assistant Certification and 2 years of experience in work involving construction, code enforcement, and inspection activities in a municipality or other government organization. 24.5 hours per week. Hourly rate dependent upon qualifications. Position is provisional and subject to Civil Service exam. The following residency preference will apply: Kearny and Newark residents Hudson and Essex County residents State of New Jersey Application available on line at www.kearnynj.org Application deadline July 23, 2021 The Town of Kearny reserves the right to hire any candidate before the Application Deadline 07W04

CDL A Drivers Apply, and get the highest paying job in the industry! Z Transportation puts the power of your career where it should be... in your hands. • $0.60 CPM for start + $5,000 Sign-On Bonus!* • Benefits from DAY 1: Health, Dental, Vision Insurance + 401K • Fully equipped trucks with Microwave, Fridge and Smart TV • Local, Regional and Over The Road Positions • Flexible Home Time QUALIFICATIONS • Class A CDL • Minimum 1-year experience • No BAC, DUI or DWI (past 5 years) • Maximum 3 moving violations (past 3 years) There is no better time than now to join us. ACT FAST, APPLY NOW! 201 903 6888 or www.DriveForZ.com 05W04

HEALTH OFFICER The Town of Kearny is seeking a full time licensed Health Officer to manage and oversee a full-service Health Department serving over 40,000 residents. State of NJ Health Officer license required. Bilingual skills desirable. Salary commensurate with education & experience. Submit application, resume and cover letter to: Town of Kearny, Personnel Office 402 Kearny Ave. Kearny, NJ 07032. Application deadline: July 23, 2021. The Town reserves the right to hire a qualified candidate before the application deadline. 07W04

Roofers Wanted Flat roof mechanics needed for EPDM and TPO roof systems. Steady work all year round. Driver’s license is a plus. Full time position Call 973-344-2549

Office furniture installers needed No experience necessary Please contact us at 908-237-0179 06W03

06W03

WAREHOUSE IN KEARNY NJ Packers, Sorters, Cutters $12/hr to start. Overtime On Saturdays if wanted. Call (201)998-8700

Auto supply driver, stock & counter person’s. NJ drivers license. Bilingual/English. (973)344-0204

06W03

06W04

Technical Assistant to the Construction Code Official Full Time Under the Direction of the Construction Official provides technical assistance in the issuance of construction permits to ensure compliance with the provisions of the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code. Successful applicant should possess a current New Jersey Technical Assistant Certification and 2 years of experience in work involving construction, code enforcement, and inspection activities in a municipality or other government organization. 35 hours per week. Salary dependent upon qualifications. Position is provisional and subject to Civil Service exam. The following residency preference will apply: Kearny and Newark residents Hudson and Essex County residents State of New Jersey Application available on line at www.kearnynj.org Application deadline July 23, 2021 The Town of Kearny reserves the right to hire any candidate before the Application Deadline 07W04

Bright Beginners Academy is looking for Part-time and Full-Time Preschool Teachers for our license centers located in Kearny and North Arlington. Applicants must have child care experience, love working with children, and be responsible for the safety and well being of the children. Job offers 401K Matching, sick and personal days. Holidays are paid after 6 months working at the center. You may reach me at zsantana.bba@gmail.com or call at 201-892-8045 08W04

Medical Company is seeking a Spanish interpreter/translator to translate for patients appointments/physical therapy in the North New Jersey area. Candidate must be presentable and maintain a professional appearance during duty. Pay rate is $30 an hour and will also include compensation for travel time as well as mileage. Experience in the translation field is preferred. Interested candidates could reach us at (201) 460-1001 08W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED Purchasing AgentConstruction company in Newark seeking responsible & organized individual for Material ordering, Scheduling, Data Entry. MUST have acknowledged of excel and bilingual (English/ Spanish) Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30 Email: humanresourcedpt113 @gmail.com 08W03

GENERAL OFFICE WORK Full-time with benefits email: joannkrez@gmail.com 07W03

SHOP WORK Full time with benefits Email: joannkrez@gmail.com 07W03

PART TIME DRIVER Transportation company in Lyndhurst seeks driver to transport patients to doctor’s app’t’s. Daytime hours, no weekends. Clean driving record a must. We supply company cars. Bi-Lingual preferred, must be knowledgeable of and comfortable driving in NYC. Call us at (201) 460-1001

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

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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

Job opportunities for: Yard Help - Mechanic with CD - Driver with CDL B All must have clean Drivers License Competitive pay Immediate employment Send resume to Bellavistasupply@gmail.com Or call (973)482-1818 for appointment

46W26

HALL FOR RENT

08W03

A/P and A/R Clerk Office Position in Kearny, NJ Looking for F/T employee who has minimum 2 years experience in A/P and A/R. Candidate should be able to discuss invoices with customers and vendors, answer phones/emails, and be accurate and attentive to details. This is a multi-tasking position, which involves other office tasks and requires an upbeat attitude, and good computer and written communication skills. Send resume to suzann@mannaandassociates.com with requested salary. M-F 8:30-5+. 08W03

Hotel in Harrison NJ is looking for personnel for cleaning rooms. Training provided. $13 per Hr. plus benefits. Hablamos espanol. (347)531-9844

03W06

SUMMER ADVENTURES SPORTFISHING CHARTERS

08W03

Go fishing with your friends or family! Basslines Sportfishing Charters Trips for Striped Bass, Tuna & Mahi Mahi USCG Licensed and insured Contact Captain Willy Abbott for Pricing and more information (201)-906-6847

Warehouse Packers Receptionist/ Office Assistant Apply in person : 260 Schuyler Ave Kearny,NJ,07032

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Secretary/Bookkeeper Needed. Knowledge of Quickbooks & Microsoft Office, Clear speaking voice. Bilingual a plus but not required. (201)998-0890 06W03

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Observer Classifieds

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

WAREHOUSE SPACE FOR RENT

HARRISON

KEARNY

N.ARLINGTON

BELLEVILLE

KEARNY

N.ARLINGTON 1 bedroom, 1 bath, HW ﬂoors, Newly painted. $1,200/ mth plus 1.5 mth security. 1 year lease. H/HW included. (732)237-4682

HARRISON 5 room apartment 2 bedrooms, 2nd ﬂoor. Walk to PATH. $1,600/mth plus utilities. 1 month security. No Pets/Smoking Call (973)484-3152 08W03

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 $ 1,195 (201) 289-7096 02W12

HARRISON 2-3 BR’s, LR, DR, EIK. Parking. Walk to Path train $1750 +1.5 Months security. utilities not included. No Smoking/Pets. Available August 1st Please text (862) 273-2060 08W03

HARRISON Railroad style 6 family building. Newer kitchen newer bath. No Pets. 1.5 mth deposit. Seperate Utilites. 10 min walk to PATH. Available July 1st. (201)491-4174 08W01

KEARNY

KEARNY 2nd ﬂoor. 4 BR. 1 Bath. EIK. $2300 + 1.5 months security. No Pets/Smoking. Close to Trans & Rt. 7. Available July 1st (862)237-1560 07W03

KEARNY 2 BR’s EIK. $1,950/month. 1 1/2 months security. Avl. July 1st. Walk to bus, schools and shopping No Pets (973) 865-5719. 07W03

KEARNY 5 Clean Bright Rooms 2 Bedroom, Living, Dining Freshly Painted, Eat-in Kitchen Newer Cabinets, New Microwave New Porcelain, Tile Bath New Carpet, Laundry Hook-Up Quiet and Well Maintained Near High School and Transport $1,600 (973)951-7254 06W03

KEARNY 1st ﬂoor 2 BR, full bath, Kitchen and LR & 2nd ﬂoor 3 BR’s LR, Kitchen and full Bath. Everything new. Available August 1st (201)9881671 08W03

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 OR (201)997-4257 06W03

KEARNY 3 BRs, 1 1/2 bath, LR, DR, EIK. updated interior. No Parking. No W/D $1900 + 1.5 security. Utilities Separate. No pets/smoking Available 7/1 (973)626-8363 08W03

KEARNY Arlington Section. 1st. ﬂ. 2 BR w/ Walk-in-closets, LR, DR, Kitchen. W/D hook-up. No pets. No smoking. $1,550 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Available August 1st (201) 991-8240 08W03

03W06

N.ARLINGTON Garden Apartment for rent. Nice area. BR.Kitchen, LR & Bathroom. $1400 + 1 months security. H/HW included. No Pets/Smoking. Single or Couple prferred. 1 parking space. Laundry on premise. Call between 10am - 7pm (201)997-2341 07W03

N.ARLINGTON 3 BR’s, LR, DR/Kitchen combo. $1600 + 1 months security. Close to Library. N.A. High School. 40, 76, & 30 Bus. Available July 1st (551)209-6948 07W03

ROOM FOR RENT HARRISON 1 room. $500/month everything included TV, cable & internet. (973) 525-3860 (917)406-7670 07W03

Safe and Secure Warehouse space in Belleville available immediately, very reasonable price. Also perfect for contractor or other small tradesman. Can also include one ofﬁce. (201) 315-4980 or (732) 904-2228

POKE AUDIO Surround Sound w/Pioneer receiver. 5 surround Speakers. Comes with 4 stands for speakers $550.00 or best offer call ask for Richie (973)667-8729 06W03

Digital Pro form Cross walk 375E Plus treadmill $600.00, Men’s Frontier GS Schwinn Bicycle 6 speed like new $300.00 call (732)447-8353 06W03

06W03

SPACE FOR RENT BELLEVILLE Small office space in Belleville, reasonable price. Also clean and neat office space available to share. Desks, filing cabinets, fax, etc. included. (201) 315-4980 or (732) 904-2228 06W03

FURNISHED APARTMENT FOR RENT

KEARNY Big room w.furniture & private Bath. No smoking/Pets. EveryKEARNY Arlington sec- thing included. Available tion, 2nd ﬂ. large 3 BR now (201)279-9251 08W01 apt. $1,600/month. completely renovated. 1 1/2 months security. seperate KEARNY Furnished utilities. Central AC/HT. room, Share Kitchen & Close to transportation. bathroom. No smokCredit check req. No pets. ing. (Female Preferred) No smoking. Avail August (201)618-1294 or 1st 201-428-7556 08W03 (862)240-6509 08W03

ITEMS FOR SALE

KEARNY Kearny ofﬁce space on Kearny Ave. $1,950/mth plus 1 1/2 months security. 900 sq.ft. Proximity to PATH call 201-997-4257 (201)889-3118 06W03

HOUSE FOR SALE BY OWNER NORWOOD

Stunning Custom Spanish colonial 4000 sqft. Only 15 min. from GW bridge, in N. Bergen county. 6 bedrooms, 2 are suites with dressing rooms and full bathrooms, ea. Suite is apx.500 sqft.. Additional 4 Bedrooms, we use one as an ofﬁce. Large eat in Kitchen Full size Dinning room, 2 more full Bathrooms, 2 laundry rooms 1 upstairs & 1 downstairs, 20x40 in-ground pool, 2 car garage, & carport featuring a 3500 sqft. Circular driveway. 10 x 12 tool shed, must see. Property tax only $14,000. gets you in Northern valley school system & a Quiet area you will feel like you are 100 miles from the city. Bidding starting @ $1,200,000.00 for all this. Call John (201)965-4440

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

07W03

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

NUTLEY Downtown Nutley, NJ Great location on Franklin Ave 12,000 SF ± former restaurant, bar + event space. LIQUOR LIC. INCLUDED 1st FL: Bar with restaurant (4,000 SF) 2nd FL: Banquet space with dance ﬂoor (4,000 SF) Basement: 4,000 SF $2.7M annual income (pre-Covid) KISLAK EXCLUSIVE, Julie Gralla, VP jralla@kislakrealty.com 732-750-3000 ext. 224 08W03

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PEST CONTROL Exterminating Fast Service • Roaches • Ants • Bed Bugs • Fleas Call 973-932-2092 Licensed and Insured 07W06

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC •Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991 05W04

A-Z MAGIC CLEANING Cleaning services for your house and office. Call for an appointment and free estimate. 347-743-5751 (Spanish) 973-391-4095 (English) 07W03

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Conclusion of story from Page 15 times she would stop by just to make sure I was doing OK. She didn’t need to do that — it was way above and beyond the call of duty. But she seriously cared how I was doing. Some of my oldest friends didn’t even check in with me during those tough times, but she did. She became my friend for life and it just eats away at me to the core that she is gone and was so young. I am going to miss her so much. I am better today because of her.” Meanwhile, hundreds of Harrisonians took to Facebook to offer reflections on the life of Delacruz. Here is a sampling. “A truly sad day for her family, friends, colleagues at HPD, fellow Marines and the Harrison community as a whole,” one commenter wrote. “May God bless her eternal soul and comfort those who grieve the loss of this accomplished woman who proudly and honorably served her beloved country and community. RIP.” Said another: “My heart hurts for the family — may she RIP and watch over all of loved ones from Heaven, for there is no doubt in my mind she was an amazing woman.” And yet another: “RIP Officer Delacruz. You were a shining bright example to all young girls out there that

they can be and do whatever they want. I thank you for your service. This saddens me to the core. I pray for your family in blue as well as all of your family. Condolences to all.” One police officer from hundreds of miles away even left a message of support. “So sorry. Your brother and sister officers from the Chicago Police Department share your grief and loss of this beautiful officer. May she go with God,” the officer from the Windy City wrote. She is survived by her daughter, Adelyn Batista, her parents, Juan Delacruz and Josefina Giudice, her siblings Eliu Delacruz, Adam Ramirez, Juan, Yajaira, Chanel and Denise Delacruz and Lesly Giudice, the father of Adelyn and love of her life, Hossein Batista, her grandparents, Rafael Villar, Claudina Medina and Ambrosio DelaCruz Santos and Lorenza Hernandez, many nieces, nephews and cousins and her brothers and sisters in the Harrison Police Department and the United States Marine Corps. Liz will continue to live on in others as she bequeathed organ and tissue donations to the New Jersey Sharing Network. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Liz’s GoFundMe page at www.gofund.me/4d6b2d21 or in care of the funeral home.

A few days after Harrison Police Officer Elizabeth Delacruz died, the department hosted a candlelight vigil in her memory. Top photo, a look at the crowd that gathered. Below, Chief David Strumolo, in white shirt, gathers with some of his officers at the memorial to Delacruz.

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Wednesday, June 30, 2021

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