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Wednesday, 25 August 2021

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Vol. CXXXIV, No. 16

ON THE INSIDE Kearny’s remembrance of 20th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, attacks will be at St. Stephen’s See Page 8

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

TURF’S DOWN

Work at the Harrison Little League field is almost done, Councilman Larry Bennett says. On Thursday, Aug. 19, the turf for the field arrived and the following day, most of it was already well in place. New state-of-the-art playground equipment, seen to the right, is also ready to go. Bennett says the town hopes the field is open by September for fall recreation programs. The hope was to have had the field ready for the summer, but a series of delays made that imposssible. See more photos on Page 18.

Murphy may require teachers to be vaccinated: report By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

ollowing widespread reports, Gov. Philip D. Murphy could soon be enacting a mandate requiring all New Jersey public school teachers be vaccinated against COVID-19, some educators are up in arms while others are perfectly content. At the same time, a

sampling of local parents of school-age kids on whether their children’s teachers should be vaccinated is also mixed. The potential vaccination mandate was reported by nj.com late last week and that report says it’s unclear whether regular testing of unvaccinated teachers would be acceptable, in lieu of getting the shots, as one state will allow.

California and Washington are the two states that have already mandated teacher vaccinations. California allows for the regular-testing option. Washington does not.

WHAT ARE EDUCATORS SAYING?

Dr. James P. Doran is the director of personnel See VAX, Page 19

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Wednesday, August 25, 2021

MURPHY MAY MAKE MASKS MANDATORY Governor, facing November re-election, could make announcement this week: reports

By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

ndoor masks may once again become a requirement if Gov. Philip D. Murphy issues a new statewide mandate. However, it’s not immediately clear whether he’ll do so, though there are numerous published reports indicating he will sometime soon, perhaps even as early as this week. As New Jersey’s hospitalization rate for COVID-19 cases continue to

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rise because of the so-called Delta variant, there’s a belief among political pundits he may have no choice but to reinstitute the mandate. That potential move has some locals happy — and others, not so pleased. Craig Thorne is a resident of Belleville, and he says he’s glad the governor is considering the mask mandate — the 52-yearold says he wears masks indoors already and never stopped wearing them, even when they became optional. “I never stopped wearing a mask inside restaurants, stores,” Thorne said. “I took the vaccine myself, but there is no way I am taking a chance of getting this. I have seen too many people that got this illness. Do you see what happens to a lot of people when they do get it? It’s serious, man. It is killing people. I’m 52 and I got a lot of life left. I don’t want this stupid virus killing me or the people I love for that matter.” Thorne says his entire family wear masks inside public locations and depending on where they are, they also mask up outdoors, especially when there are large crowds about. “We went to a fair recently and not too many people had masks on,” he said. “So we put ours on. Look, there’s nothing to lose if you wear one. I don’t mind when people don’t — it’s for them to choose. But I guess if the leaders think we should wear them inside, it’s the better option.”

‘Do you see what happens to a lot of people when they do get it? It’s serious, man. It is killing people. I’m 52 and I got a lot of life left. I don’t want this stupid virus killing me or the people I love...’ — Craig Thorne Belleville Elizabeth Rok, a 33-yearold from Woodside, Queens, was visiting her mother who lives in Kearny. She’s not so thrilled with the thought of having to wear a mask when she’s at mom’s and has to go to supermarkets or other indoor stops like the pharmacy. “What the (heck) was the point of getting the vaccine?” she asked as she prepared to pick up her mother’s prescription at the local chemist. “Why do we have to have mandates? Can we not just trust that people know how to make the right decisions for themselves without the government having a say-so all the time? It’s ridiculous. Just ridiculous.” Owen Alter, who was shopping at the same store as Rok, had mixed feelings about mask mandates. “Government doctors know better than the average Joe does,” Alter said. “I don’t think the governor would take the decision to force people to put masks on indoors lightly and without consulting with the experts about the facts first. I do understand, still, how some could be ticked about this happening. “A lot of people don’t like being told what to do. I get that part.” Be sure to check www. theobserver.com for updates to this evolving story.

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

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Remember to drive & park properly near schools By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

olice are reminding parents with school children of the importance of parking properly when dropping kids off and picking them up at area schools. Over the past few years, the Kearny Police Department has said it’s received complaints of illegal parking and dropping off or picking up passengers without pulling to the curb. Please keep in mind that the safety of school children is paramount. The KPD asks all parents and guardians to obey the traffic laws in and around the vicinity of all schools and throughout the Town of Kearny. The department has also observed, in the past, many “jaywalking” violations by parents and or guardians with children in tow. Traditionally, officers are assigned to the school areas at the beginning of the new school year for the

BACK TO SCHOOL enforcement of traffic laws. Violators will be ticketed. The following traffic violations, in particular, but not limited to, have be strictly enforced by officers on foot, bicycle and radio car when assigned to school zones: • Double parking. • Parking in prohibited areas. • Blocking crosswalks. • Blocking school bus stops. • Dropping off/picking up children in the middle of the street. • Speeding. Parents and guardians should reinforce with their children the use of intersections controlled with a crossing guard. By obeying traffic laws and teaching children about these laws, everyone will enjoy a safe school year.

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Obituaries...............................................................................Page 13 Business Directory..........................................................Pages 14-15 Classiﬁeds ....................................................................... Pages 16-17

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Wednesday, August 25, 2021

DRIVE SOBER OR YOU’RE GETTING PULLED OVER By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com

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The nationwide ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign is underway now and will last through Monday of the long Labor Day Weekend, Sept. 6. Extra DWI patrols will be out during this timeframe in many municipalities.

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f you’re one of those dumb enough to even think about getting behind the wheel after drinking — and you think you’re going to get away with — think again — you’ve been warned. And it’s all because as the nation heads into the final weeks of summer, with Labor Day just round the corner, police departments across the country and more specifically, in Jersey, on Aug. 20 kicked off the annual “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” traffic safety campaign aimed at reducing crashes through the coming long holiday Day weekend. New Jersey’s campaign is part of a nationwide crackdown on impaired driving and to assist the state’s enforcement efforts, the Division of Highway Traffic Safety has awarded grants totaling $505,500 to 98 law-enforcement agencies in the Garden State to fund overtime for enhanced patrols and high-visibility sobriety checkpoints during the 17-day enforcement campaign. Hundreds of additional agencies — ones that didn’t get a grant — from across the state, from the northern border with New York and Pennsylvania in Sussex County to the southernmost tip in Cape May County, are also expected to participate in the initiative. Said Acting N.J. Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck: “... For those who do, be warned: If you drive drunk or high, we will hold you accountable. There’s simply no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, especially with the availability of ridesharing apps and public transportation across our state.” According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunken- and drugged-driving crashes claim the lives of more than 10,000 people across the country

yearly, with those deaths occurring at a much higher rate during the so-called “101 Days of Summer” that stretch from Memorial Day to Labor Day. In New Jersey, crash data shows a similar trend. While impaired driving typically accounts for about 25 to 30% of all fatal crashes that occur here in any given year, crash data from recent years shows that percentage jumping to 40 to 45% during the “101 Days of Summer.”

TIPS FOR AVOIDING IMPAIRED DRIVING • Identify a designated driver for your group before you go out. • Do not let friends drive after drinking. Take away their keys if needed. • If you have been drinking, get a ride home from a friend who has not been drinking, call a taxi or use a rideshare app. If you don’t have a rideshare app on your phone, download one ahead of time (you’ll need to enter your credit-card information before you may request a pickup) from either the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. If you’re not ready to leave but an intoxicated friend is, you may still use a rideshare app to call for a pick-up and send them away without you needing to head out. • If you host a party with alcohol, non-alcoholic or virgin drinks and remind guests to choose a designated driver before they get too bombed. • As a parent or caregiver, talk to teens about the dangers of drinking and driving. Promise to pick them up, no questions asked, if they are impaired. • If you suspect you’ve seen an impaired driver on the road, pull over in a safe location, call police and provide the location, description and direction the vehicle is headed. Get a license plate number if it all possible.

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

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KPD: Homeless Newark man crashed stolen car

By Capt. Tim Wagner Kearny Police Department

n Aug. 2 at 8:05 p.m., Officer Taylor Latka was dispatched to a John Hay Avenue residence to take a car-theft report. A 27-yearold town resident told the officer he came to check on his father’s Mazda while his father is out of the country and found someone had stolen his dad’s car out of the driveway. Sgt. Neil Nelson and Det. Mike Farinola conducted a follow-up investigation and learned the stolen Mazda had already been recovered by Newark police at 5:30 a.m., hours before the complainant noticed it was stolen. The Mazda had been crashed into a tree and abandoned at Spruce and Prince streets in Newark. Newark officers who responded to the crash interviewed 21-year-old Damian R. Negron, a homeless man, near the crash scene but could not confirm at that time whether he had been inside the car. Sgt. Nelson and Det. Farinola reviewed neighborhood surveil-

lance video from the area of the John Hay Avenue theft. When compared with the Newark bodyworn camera footage of the officer who interviewed Negron, probable cause developed to issue a warrant charging Negron with the theft of the Mazda. On Aug. 14, Officers Jean-Paul Duran and Ruben Rivera went to the South Orange Police Department where officers there had located and arrested Negron for both the outstanding Kearny arrest warrant and a warrant issued by the Morris County Superior Court for a probation violation. Negron was booked and then remanded to the Hudson County Jail, South Kearny. Also on Aug. 14 at 11:17 p.m., Officers Bismark Karikari, Derek Hemphill, Rivera and Sgt. Chris Levchak were dispatched to a Devon Street home whose owner reported two shirtless teenage boys hopped a fence onto her property and tried to open car doors on her family’s Honda and Mazda that were parked in the driveway. When the homeowner threatened to call police, the boys reportedly

ran to the high school plaza where officers apprehended them. They were identified as 14- and 16-yearold town residents. The boys were charged under juvenile delinquency with conspiracy to commit burglary, attempted burglary and defiant trespass. They were later released into the custody of their parents. •••

CASES OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

The Kearny PD doesn’t usually include domestic-violence incidents in the blotter in the interest of victim privacy; however, without revealing identifying information, the police department reports the

following domestic-violence arrests last week as a reminder that these situations do happen here. • The arrest of a 29-year-old town man for assaulting his girlfriend and lacerating her forehead. • The arrest of a 46-year-old town man for assaulting and injuring his girlfriend, breaking window blinds and robbing the girlfriend’s iPhone when she tried to call police. • The arrest of a 21-year-old town man for entering his girlfriend’s apartment in violation of a restraining order and then assaulting her and injuring her wrist. • The arrest of a 24-year-old town woman for simple assault and criminal mischief for hitting her boyfriend and lacerating his lip, biting his chest, pulling his hair and breaking his personal property. • The arrest of a 32-year-old town man for aggravated assault for strangling, biting, attempting to punch and banging his boyfriend’s head off a wall. • The arrest of a 49-year-old town woman for simple assault for pushing her 78-year-old roommate to the floor and injuring her knee when it stuck a door frame.

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Thoughts & Views GUEST VIEW

We can’t yet relent to COVID-19

Op-Ed By Michael Venezia Mayor of Bloomfield With the majority of New Jersey’s coronavirus pandemic restrictions having expired May 19, the light that was at the end of the tunnel created by the COVID-19 crisis is nearly shining on us all. However, our fight against the pandemic is not over. Even as COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to decline, vaccination numbers rise, and the mask mandates begin to drift away, it’s essential we review how we got here and what else is still required to get every one of us over the finish line. Getting to this point has required a far-reaching and coordinated response from government and the private sector, particularly those in the health care industry. When we were in the throes of the pandemic, we all applauded, many of us nightly, our frontline health care heroes. We must continue to acknowledge their heroic work and the pain many of them may feel long after this pandemic is over. As frontline workers saw firsthand the devastating impacts of the virus, leaders throughout the private sector were forced to think creatively about how to reduce exposure and meet patients’ care needs. As we look ahead, the innovative solutions health practitioners and insurance providers have enacted over the last year must continue so we may strengthen not only our nationwide response to COVID-19, but our ability to ensure we can deliver care to anyone who needs it. Despite vaccines becoming more readily available, the spread of variants is a very real concern. Just as it was at the beginning of the pandemic, continued access to testing and treatment for COVID-19 is essential to mitigating this spread, and no one should hesitate to get tested or treated because of concerns about costs. For this reason, it’s good to see health-insurance providers proactively eliminated patient cost-sharing for COVID-19 testing throughout the pandemic. They have also covered doctor visits and the treatments needed to recover from the virus and waived prior authorization for anyone seeking testing or treatment. While access to care has always been a concern for patients in more rural areas, safely accessing one’s physician took on a different meaning during the last year. To avoid, or at least minimize, exposure to COVID-19, New Jerseyans took advantage of telehealth or telemedicine programs, many for the first time. We now know that the quality of telehealth care provides comparable outcomes to traditional, in-person visits for certain health conditions. In recognition, health-insurance providers have supported that shift by waiving cost sharing for telehealth services and expanding telemedicine programs. This must continue. Understanding that all stakeholders in our health care system must work together to fight this virus, health insurance providers will continue to take action — to help patients get the testing and treatment they need, help partners meet capacity challenges, help businesses and their employees maintain their coverage and help policymakers implement effective solutions. Most importantly, we must hold onto the collaborative spirit that has enabled the progress in the last year.

Gov. Murphy: Give me a LaClair: Does Green possess to vote you evenreason ‘an ounce offor humility?’

Dear Murphy: To theGov. Editor: IMany will soon haveresidents to make a may decision on who Kearny remember Imy vote for the next governor. I need to know daughter, Katie. She is now a research some facts and your position on some scientist, having obtained her Ph.D.issues. from First,Hopkins because we finished the current year Johns University in Baltimore in with a huge surplus, will you be reducing the neurodegenerative disease. size of your And I see howproposed hard sheoutrageous works andbudget? the depth no, we do not need an increase in the Homeof her understanding that is necessary stead Rebate program. Many of us know for her do the work that allows her tothis is just another political scheme that started in write papers like the one titled: “Congenic 1976 when the state income tax was passed.in expression of poly-GA but not poly-PR The Homestead Rebate was intended to be mice triggers selective neuron loss and ainterferon one-year program to transition us from responses found in C9orf72local taxes for education to the state income tax to ALS.” fund our schools. (Article 8 section But Her contribution in her field is4.1) one the politicians soon realized this could be a big droplet in a vast sea of scientific research. political bonanza for them and they made the When I read a letter like the one program permanent. published in The Observer Aug. 9, “No

one’s injecting me with a dead strain of COVID — no one,” written by Vance Green, of North Arlington, I wonder whether the author has an ounce of humility about how little he knows. Nature, including the COVID virus, does not care about his political biases, his distrust of government or his distaste for being told what to do. The facts are clear, the means of transmission are known and the 4.3 million deaths from COVID, so far, are undeniable. Entire industries — including sports and other forms of entertainment — shut down operations for more than a year, losing

LETTER TOTO THE LETTER EDITOR THE EDITOR Now we have two funding sources for billions of dollars. They did not do that on education — the income tax and still the local a lark. school taxes. Remember, Trenton must have a They did it because this virus is real and balanced budget, so you cannot give us some deadly serious. cash unless you take some from us first. When someone refuses to be vaccinated, Second question. Do you support CRT he puts not only himself at risk, but the (Critical Race Theory) and the 1619 Project beentire world. ing taught in our schools? That is because this virus, like all Simple enough? viruses, mutates and evolves. It has already Two little questions I am sure you can anevolved into a more deadly variant than swer quickly so I can decide my vote. the original strain. Vincent J. Frantantoni Scientists — the ones who know and Belleville understand this subject, based not on their biases but on the facts — are concerned about the virus evolving again, into a variant they cannot control. So instead of disparaging the author of that letter, I will merely point out to him that by refusing to be vaccinated, he could be the person in whom the virus undergoes a deadly mutation scientists cannot control, causing millions of deaths and a shutdown of economies all over the world for decades. I can only hope he will think about these facts and become vaccinated. A recent story contained Paul L.of LaClair the improper spelling Kearny a Little League player in Nutley. The boy’s name is Anthony Raffa.

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Wednesday, August 25, 2021

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Belleville adopts strict cannabis regulations By Kevin Canessa kc@theobserver.com Add Belleville to the list of local towns that will permit cannabis operations within its borders, albeit in a strictly limited manner. The Township Council, with the added support of Mayor Michael Melham, adopted an ordinance Tuesday, Aug. 17, restricting the number of retail cannabis facilities in Belleville to four individual operations. The ordinance also limits retail cannabis facilities to only one commercial zone, the business district (BG Zone), while permitting other cannabis-related uses in the Valley, VB1 and VB2 districts. Last week’s vote happened just four days prior to the mandated Aug. 21

deadline for New Jersey municipalities to enact local guidelines for cannabis sale, distribution and growth. If the township hadn’t adopted the ordinance, it would have been left open, with no limit on retail establishments and less say in where they would eventually be located, the mayor said. Gov. Philip D. Murphy signed a law Feb. 22 to legalize recreational marijuana use for adults in New Jersey, as well as for the cultivation, processing and sale of retail marijuana. The law was passed after more than 67% of New Jerseyans voted in favor of legalizing the use of cannabis in a 2020 referendum. Some 63% of Belleville’s voters cast “yes” votes on the ballot question. New Jersey’s cannabis laws give mu-

‘Library Card Day’ Sept. 18 in Nutley The Nutley Public Library invites parents and their children of all ages to celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Day and discover the joys of a library card with a day of activities Saturday, Sept. 18 at 10:30 a.m. The library will host a special “We Love Libraries” story time outdoors with stories, songs and rhymes for little ones. Participants of all ages may then create their own DIY book bags and pick up an ice cream treat from Mike Perrone, “The Good Humor Man” at 11 a.m. The story room in the children’s area will be reopened at 11 a.m. to unveil a new mural called “Buzzing Into Imagination,” which was created by Kathryn Plummer and Leticia Donato. The mural was designed over several months while the room was closed to the public and it presents a colorful message about imagination to welcome

families back to the room. All activities are free and do not require registration. Masks are encouraged for the outdoor story time, and required inside the library. The events are all part of Library Card Sign-Up Month, a nationwide initiative from the American Library Association. Residents of all ages are encouraged to sign up for a library card throughout September and discover the many resources the library has to offer. More programs are planned for children, teens and adults and may be accessed at the library’s events calendar at www.nutleypubliclibrary.org. The library is located at 93 Booth Drive. For additional information, visit the Youth Services website at youthservices.nutleypubliclibrary.org, or contact Deidra Garcia at deidra.garcia@nutley. bccls.org or (973) 667-0405, ext. 2623.

Mt. Carmel Church hosting flea market & craft fair Sept. 18 Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Lyndhurst, hosts an indoor craft fair and flea market Saturday, Sept. 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the parish center, 146 Copeland Ave. Various craft vendors with a wide selection of household and personal items will be on hand.

Assorted flea market finds will also be available. Refreshments will be sold. Raffle prizes include a bigscreen Smart TV, a $100 ShopRite gift card and $100 cash. Tickets will be sold for $2 per and there will also be hourly raffles.

nicipalities the ability to enact certain restrictions stricter than the state’s. “That’s what this vote was about — we are establishing tight restrictions of where cannabis could be sold and where it could be grown in Belleville,” Melham said. “The governing body did not vote to legalize marijuana in Belleville, but we did enact tougher restrictions that control the industry within our borders.”

Municipalities do not have the authority to ban cannabis use or delivery services in their towns. Township Attorney Steven J. Martino noted municipalities may not prevent residents from ordering cannabis through a home-delivery service similar to GrubHub or Uber Eats. The township also may not stop someone from going to a cannabis distributor in a neighboring town, purchasing it, bringing it back home and ingesting the substance. Belleville expects to realize tax revenue from cannabis-retail facilities, although income estimates remain unclear. New Jersey residents who wish to open a cannabis retail facility must apply to the state and undergo a thorough review process.

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Wednesday, August 25, 2021

UEZ yard sale returns Sept. 18 & 19

The Kearny UEZ town-wide yard & sidewalk sale returns Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 18 & 19, more than a year after it was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here’s how it works. Any Kearny resident may host a yard sale that weekend at their home without a permit fee. Those who register before the Sept. 9 deadline will be included on a special printed and Google map. Only Kearny residents may register. Entry forms must be legible. Sellers must exercise proper pandemic-

related safety protocols during sale. Registration forms may be obtained at Town Hall on Kearny Avenue, or downloaded at www.kearnynj.org or www.facebook.com/ KearnyUrbanEnterpriseZone. You may also complete registration online at www.tinyurl.com/KTWYS. Completed forms may be dropped off at or mailed to the KUEZ, 410 Kearny Ave., Kearny, N.J. 07032, faxed to (201) 955-1827 or sent by email to kearnyyardsale@kearnynj.org no later than Sept. 9.

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Ring ‘robbery’ alert was inaccurate, NA’s police chief says Ring doorbell alerts and social-media reports of a robbery on the 500 block of Ridge Road in North Arlington Aug, 19 were false, NA’s Police Chief Scott Hedenberg told The Observer late last week. There was, instead, a shoplifting incident at the 475 Ridge Road

Walgreens. No robbery of any kind occurred, Hedenberg said. The original Ring notice was an “unconfirmed” alert sent out by a resident “listening to a local police scanner.” Often, when this happens, things get lost in translation. — CANESSA

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The Kearny town-wide remembrance marking the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, takes place Friday, Sept. 10, 2021, at 7 p.m. at St. Stephen’s

Church, at the corner of Laurel and Kearny avenues. All are welcome, regardless of your personal religious tradition. — CANESSA

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Wednesday, August 25, 2021

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Sports & Recreation WITH

Harrison’s native son Lucas returns home to coach grid team

Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Belleville ﬁelds get major $6 million facelift Calling it “one of the best municipal projects in the state,” Belleville Mayor Michael Melham proudly discussed the project that will enable the Belleville High School facility to undergo a $6 million facelift that will not only restore three heavily used athletic fields, including the main field, known as Doc Ellis Field at Belleville Municipal Stadium, but will give Belleville a state-of-theart eight-lane track that will enable the town to host major track and field events in the future. “It’s the largest public project that the town has taken on,” Melham said as he overlooked the work already started on the project last week. “It’s very unique for Belleville. It’s a great relationship between the town and the Board of Education.” The funding for the project will come from a $2 million Green Acres Fund grant, $3.5 million in low interest 20-year bonds and $500,000 from the Board of Education to install new lighting for the complex. Just having that cooperation between the elected officials and the Board of Ed is impressive. But this project had to be a joint effort, considering that most of the land used by the high school teams is owned by

the town. The facility, under the design of Neglia Engineering of Lyndhurst, will be totally equipped with FieldTurf artificial surfaces, which will enable the fields to recover quicker after rain and snowstorms. In the past, the fields would need days to drain and dry. Now, the teams – both from the high schools and also from Belleville Recreation leagues – will be able to play right away after inclement weather. “We are quadrupling the amount of FieldTurf fields in town,” Melham said. “We will now have 60,000 square feet of turf fields.” The improvements to the main facility are expected to be ready by the time that the Buccaneers play their second game of the season against rival Nutley Sept. 18. “We promised Coach (Jermain) Johnson that he would have the field back by the time they’re expected to play,” Melham said. “We’re going to make good on that promise.” Those improvements were well underway last week. The improvements also include renovation to two facilities – known as the JV fields – that are basically See VIEW, Page 11

Photo by Jim Hague

Ray Lucas, the all-time best athlete in the history of Harrison High School, has returned home to take over the head football coaching reins.

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com When Jonathan Jackson decided to resign from his head football coaching position at Harrison High School earlier this month after just one season, it left the Blue Tide in the lurch. Jackson, who went back to his native Bayonne to become an assistant under new coach Dwayne Williams, handed in his resignation papers just one month before the Blue Tide was scheduled to open their 2021 season against Bogota. Needless to say, it left athletic director Kim Huaranga in a bind to find a replacement. At the same time, four women inside a home in Harrison approached the lone male in the household. Cecy Lucas and her three daughters did the hard sell to Ray Lucas, the best athlete to ever grace Harrison High. Lucas, the former Blue Tide standout who went on

to have a great college career at Rutgers and later played in the National Football League with the New England Patriots, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins, has been the executive director of the Harrison Housing Authority for the last two years. Lucas has never turned his back on his native hometown and always been willing to lend a helping hand. But the Lucas girls wanted Ray to take over the Harrison program. “My wife and kids first came after me,” Lucas said. “They started with me just three days after he (Jackson) resigned. Then someone said, ‘Why would you want to take over the team that no one wanted?’ That line angered me. I was once the kid nobody wanted. I want all the kids that nobody wants.” So sure enough, Lucas has decided to become the head coach of the Blue Tide, the 10th head coach Harrison has employed over the last 17 seasons. Lucas has no head coaching

experience, but that should not deter the fact that he is taking on the challenge of trying to lead a program that has had a revolving door in the coaching ranks. After all, Lucas is the best athlete Harrison has ever produced. If he can’t get the most out of Harrison athletes, no one can. “It means so much to me,” Lucas said. “Harrison kids shouldn’t have nothing to look forward to. I’m running practices and loving it.” Lucas has also encouraged his long-time friend Nick Landy to serve as an assistant coach. Nick Landy was an assistant coach when his brother, Mike, was the head coach in the early 2000s and has been the head boys’ volleyball coach since the program started a decade ago. The two have worked together at the Camp Fatima for handicapped youngsters for the past six years. “I told Nick Landy that it was time for a change with See LUCAS, Page 10

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LUCAS

Continued from Page 9 the football team,” Lucas said. “I cornered Nick at Camp Fatima and told him I wanted him to coach with me and he said yes. I was completely ecstatic.” Mike Gregory, another former Blue Tide standout, also agreed to join Lucas’ staff. “It’s my first coaching job, so I needed to have a good staff around me,” Lucas said. “I have a wealth of knowledge in football that I can call upon, playing for guys like Bill Parcells and Bill Belichick in the NFL, guys like Doug Graber at Rutgers. I’ve played for some great coaches, even here in Harrison.” One of those was the immortal Ralph Borgess, the late, great coach who is a member of five different Halls of Fame in New Jersey. Another Rutgers coach also

played in Lucas’ decision to take over the Blue Tide. “Greg Schiano was a success at Rutgers, went to the NFL, but came back to New Jersey and Rutgers last year,” said Lucas, who has been the radio analyst for Rutgers football broadcasts for the last nine years. “What Greg has done at Rutgers helped with my decision.” Lucas knows that taking over the Blue Tide represents a gigantic challenge. “I think everyone is sick of Harrison being a doormat,” Lucas said. “I want the kids to have the hunger that I had when I played. I want to be able to help take these boys and make them into men. The kids I have right now are tremendous. They are working so hard. I know that we’re going to do things the right way.” Not only have the Blue Tide struggled to hold onto a head coach over the last 16 seasons – each of the last seven

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Photo by Jim Hague

Ray Lucas, shown here with his family in a ceremony before he was inducted into the Rutgers Hall of Fame, has become the new head coach of the Harrison football team.

coaches have lasted just two seasons or less, the last three (Dan Hicks, Brian Capriola and Jackson) all were on board for just one season – they have also failed to be successful. The Blue Tide qualified for the NJSIAA North Jersey Section 2, Group II state playoffs just

once during that span, the only year that they owned a winning record. In 2016, under the tutelage of head coach Mike Hinchcliffe, the Blue Tide made the state playoffs with a 5-4 record. The Blue Tide reached the .500 mark twice, in 2018 under Hicks and in 2003 under Mike Landy. They were 1-6 last season in Jackson’s lone year. Lucas didn’t want to know the gory details of the Blue

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Tide’s past. “The kids have to have the winner’s mentality,” Lucas said. “We have to change the way these young men think. I’m a no-nonsense kind of guy. This is a challenge that I’ve never had, but I know I’m not leaving these kids. I see these kids every day and they want to learn. I’ve only had a limited time to get them ready.” The Blue Tide open their season Sept. 11 against Bogota and return home Sept. 17 against Emerson Borough. “But I’m encouraged with the strides these kids have made in just five days,” Lucas said. “These kids are buying in. I think all of these kids are willing to change everyone’s perception of Harrison football.” Lucas said that he wasn’t bothered by a reporter’s simple question. Why would he want to take over the Harrison program at this stage of his life? He has nothing to prove to anyone. He’s been a success on radio with Rutgers and television with both SNY and the Big 10 Network. And he’s done an excellent job heading

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Continued from Page 9 used for practices for the high school and recreation baseball and softball league, The other fields should be ready for the spring seasons, although the main baseball facility, George Zampini Field, will remain a grass field. The main softball facility at Carl Corino Field at Claremont School received a FieldTurf facelift last spring. “We like grass for baseball,” said Melham, who once was a baseball star at Belleville. Town administrator Anthony Iacono said that the improvements also include the construction of the eight-lane track, which will be ready for meets in the spring. With an eight-lane track, Belleville will now be able to host county and state meets, which will bring in revenue for both the school district and the town.

Photo by Jim Hague

From left, town administrator Anthony Iacono, town recreation director Tom Agosta, Belleville High School athletic director Marcellino Marra and Belleville Mayor Michael Melham oversee the improvements that are being made to Belleville Municipal Stadium’s Doc Ellis Field and the surrounding areas.

“In the past, we didn’t have a track and the other fields were basically dust bowls,” Iacono said. “It was our idea

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to do the application for the Green Acres funds. Once we received that, we moved ahead with the rest of the

project. Our relationship with the Board of Education is excellent. Dr. (Richard) Tomko works with us. It was

relatively seamless and have minimal impact on the taxpayers. I think the track is the best part of it. That’s the biggest improvement.” Since the improvements were being made to the facility, it made sense to improve the lighting to include stateof-the-art LED lights that don’t require regular bulb changing. Melham believes that the project, when completed, will be the talk of the entire state, for its practical use of open space and for the top shelf track facility. “I definitely think this helps to put Belleville on the map,” Melham said. “We will have one of the only eight-lane tracks in northern New Jersey. It’s not so easy to get something like this done, because it is so well used, with kids always playing on it. But since I was a former athlete, I understand the how important it is to have the right equipment. This facility does that.”

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LUCAS

Continued from Page 10 the Harrison Housing Authority. So why? Lucas knew that there were rumors that the program might be dropped, considering the participation numbers are low. “I think it’s the logical question to ask,” Lucas said. “But Cecy and my kids said that it’s time. And I got angry when someone said that I was taking the team that nobody wanted. I really don’t care when the first game is. I know I’m getting this team ready to play.” So is Lucas ready? “To be honest, at first, I was frightened by it,” Lucas said. “The first day of practice, I was scared to death. But it is something that I always wanted to do. I told the kids that I’m going to here for them. But being from Harrison and being someone who played here, it’s something I had to do. I’m not going to turn things around in a day. I just want to take them from being boys to men.” Lucas has never let the town of Harrison down before – and he’s certainly not going to do so now. The program desperately needed a strong man to take over the program this time and there’s no one better than the school’s best athlete of all time. It’s certainly a great story, the native son coming back to lead the program he once led to its best heights, the athlete with the Hall of Fame resume. Ray Lucas has to be the one.

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Obituaries many hobbies, but his most working with special-needs favorite was his love for classic children and had a strong callRonald J. Sawyer, 86, died and sports cars. ing for the work. Friday, Aug. 20, 2021 at Larry was predeceased by She will be remembered Clara Maass Medical Center, his wife Patricia Levy and son most dearly by her children, Belleville. Aaron Levy. Larry is survived their spouses and her grandThe funeral will be from the by his four step-children, children: Lauren, her husband Thiele-Reid Family Funeral Christine Burns, Brian Shawn and their beautiful Home, 585 Belgrove Drive, Canfield, Kevin Canfield and daughter Mackenzie; DanKearny, on Tuesday, Aug. 24 Andrew Munro. iel, his wife Iwona and their at 9 a.m. A funeral Mass will Larry’s memorial service beautiful children Hannah and be celebrated at St. Cecilia will take place Tuesday, Aug. Ali; Carolyn and Mike and her Church, 120 Kearny Ave., 24, in Holy Cross Cemetery, grand-dog Marty. LAWRENCE ‘LARRY’ LEVY Kearny, at 10 a.m. Interment North Arlington. The funeral In lieu of flowers please Lawrence “Larry” Levy, 76 will follow in Holy Cross Cemmake a donation in her name of Toms River, died peacefully procession will start from etery, North Arlington. to www.themiracleproject.org. at Community Medical Center, Condon Funeral Home, 684 Ron was born in Jersey City Kearny Ave., Kearny, at 10:30 The Armitage & Wiggins Toms River, on Aug. 17, 2021. and raised in Harrison before Funeral home, Kearny, was in Larry had an amazing sense a.m. moving to Kearny at age 18. charge. of humor and a big, generHe was employed as the ous and kind heart that will MARIAN PAZNEK transportation coordinator forever be missed. Marian Paznek died Aug. 15. DORIS KOBASHIGAWA for Henkel Chemical at First Whenever Larry walked She was a fiery, one-of-aSOBRINO & Essex streets in Harrison into the room, you felt like you kind woman and her heart Doris Kobashigawa Sobrino, for 40 years before retiring in knew him for years with his was bursting with love. Her 78, of Kearny, died Aug. 17, 1997. welcoming personality and passion for life was obvious in 2021. St. Cecilia Church was very sense of humor. every interaction and converA funeral service was important to Mr. Sawyer. He Larry worked with his sation she had. May Marian’s celebrated at the Armitage & served as a Eucharistic Minmother and father at their impact live on for many years Wiggins Funeral Home. Creister, volunteered in the food family owned business, Welto come. mation was private. pantry and at BINGO and also Fit shoes, in Kearny for over Marian spent over 20 years Born in Lima, Peru, Doris counted the money collected 50 years. He loved doo-wop at Mass. music and dancing and loved He is survived by his beto attend concerts all throughloved wife Emily (nee Dutka) out New Jersey with his Sawyer, one sister, Loretta Ko331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison girlfriend, Angela. rzon and one brother, Clifford Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Since a teenager, Larry had

RONALD J. SAWYER

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Sawyer. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews and cousins and many wonderful friends. Ronald was predeceased by his siblings Veronica McErlean, Donald Sawyer and Leo James Sawyer. He was an all around good guy who will be missed by so many.

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Continued from Page 13 cial embroidery for her loved ones, and was fiercely proud of her Okinawan heritage. Doris was the beloved wife of Juan Sobrino; loving mother of Doris Parker and her husband Matthew, and Rosa Sobrino; cherished grandmother of Naomi Madelyn and she was the treasured sister of Hiromi Diaz.

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Century 21 Semiao & Associates Recognizes Top Agent of the Year Frank Riposta Sr. Frank Riposta Sr. Recognized for Professionalism and Performance Lyndhurst, NJ - Century 21 Semiao & Associates recently recognized Frank Riposta Sr. with their annual 2020 Top Agent of the Year award which recognizes outstanding commitment for professionalism and performance within the local real estate community. Century 21 Semiao & Associates recently presented the award to Frank Riposta during a special online ceremony held by Century 21 Semiao & Associates Corporate Office located in Lyndhurst, NJ.

Michael Allen Berliner died Aug. 19, 2021. He was 73. Born in Newark, he lived in Harrison and Staten Island before moving to Kearny 15 years ago. Burial was Monday, Aug. 23, in the North Arlington Jewish Cemetery. Rabbi Karen B. Kaplan officiated. Michael is survived by his beloved wife Carmen along with her loving family. The Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge.

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Riposta’s born and raised in Kearny, NJ resides there with his family and owns D&F Deli established in 1983. Frank started his extraordinary career in Real Estate 15 years ago with Century 21 Semiao & Associates. Throughout the years he has received prestigious awards including Century 21 Quality Service Pinnacle Producer 2016-2020, Master Emerald Award 2018-2020, Centurion Producer 2016-2017, Century 21 Presidents Award 2009-2017, and he was inducted into The Century 21 Centurion Hall of Fame. Frank also has been the recipient of the New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Award – Silver Level consecutively since 2015. In addition, Frank is in the Forefront in 2021 and on track for the C21 Emerald Award. “Frank started his career with Century 21 Semiao & Associates and has always shown that he possesses a tireless dedication to assisting home buyers, and sellers to make sound real estate decisions and that is what this honor is all about. He understands what it means to be a real estate professional and we can all learn by his example. I am honored to have been able to watch his career continually flourish and look forward to the years to come.” said Fernando G. Semiao, broker/owner of CENTURY 21 Semiao & Associates. “It is a great honor to be recognized among such a talented and dedicated group of real estate sales affiliates, and a joy knowing I can give back to my community by connecting with my clients and assuring them I am there for them every step of the way.” said Frank Riposta.

Century 21 Semiao & Associates is located at 531 Kearny Ave, Kearny NJ, CENTURY 21 Semiao & Associates is a full-service brokerage specializing in Residential, Condo / Co Ops, Land, Rentals, and Commercial properties. Please feel free to contact Frank Riposta Sr. at C: 201-679-3785 or Email: frankriposta@gmail.com.

died Aug. 20, 2021. Visiting will be at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny, on Wednesday, Aug. 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, Aug. 26 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Lyndhurst. Interment will be in Arlington Cemetery in Kearny. Born in Jersey City, Adele lived most of her life in Kearny. She retired from the inventory control department at Barney’s New York in 2017. She also spent many wonderful years working at Drug Fair in Kearny, where she made many lifelong friends. In her retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She never missed a special occasion, sending a card or a note, and was an avid letter writer. She had many good times at Michael’s Riverside in Lyndhurst, especially hanging out with the Tuesday and Friday night crew. She’ll be remembered for her words of wisdom and advice, her no-non-

sense approach to life and her cheesecake. Adele was predeceased by her husband, Angelo, in 2015 and her son Robert in 1995. She is survived by her daughter Adele Mackin (Joe) and son Angelo (Mary Ellen), son Robert Smullen (Diane) and daughterin-law Linda Scorsone (Charlie). She was a loving grandmother to Angelo Diana (Jennifer), Noelle Hunter (Matthew), Kara and Janie Mackin, Madison Smullen and Charlie, Matthew and Allison Scorsone. She welcomed her first greatgrandchild, Ava Rose Diana, in March 2021. She was also loved by her nieces and nephews. Adele is also survived by her brother, Alexander MacDonald and was predeceased by her parents, George and Adele MacDonald and two brothers, George and Louis. In lieu of flowers, donations to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society would be appreciated. And if you smoke or use tobacco products, the family requests you do your best to quit.

Deadline for Obituaries Monday by 10AM will be CLOSED Monday, September 6, for

DEADLINES Display & Real Estate Ads - Thursday @ 3PM Classified Ads - Friday @ 2PM Obituaries - Friday @ 10AM

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Hudson offering booster to immunocompromised at Juneau Center Hudson County has begun to distribute third shots of the COVID-19 vaccine to immunocompromised individuals. The additional doses are available at the USS Juneau Center Vaccine Site in South Kearny with no appointment required. A full listing of available drive-in hours is available at www.hudsoncovidvax.org. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, severely immunocompromised people with the following conditions should receive an additional vaccine dose: • Active treatment for solid tumor and hematologic malignancies. • Receipt of solid-organ transplant and taking immunosuppressive therapy.Receipt of CAR-T-cell or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (within two years of transplantation or taking immunosuppression therapy). • Moderate or severe pri-

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Belleville’s Valencia aboard the USS Essex

mary immunodeficiency (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome). • Advanced or untreated HIV infection. • Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids (i.e., 20 mg prednisone or equivalent per day), alkylating agents, antimetabolites, transplant-related immunosuppressive drugs, cancer chemotherapeutic agents classified as severely immunosuppressive, tumor-necrosis (TNF) blockers and other biologic agents that are immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory. Only the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines will be available for additional doses and residents should take the same vaccine they received previously at least four weeks after the second dose. No proof of condition or doctor’s note will be required. — CANESSA

U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Richard E. Anglin

U.S. Navy Seaman Daniel Valencia, of Belleville, rolls up the ensign in preparation for deployment aboard amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Sailors and Marines of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are underway, conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

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Wednesday, August 25, 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.

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

Stable and SAFE work environment and a chance to grow with a solid company •SKILLED CLIMBER & EXPERIENCED GROUND GUY •DRIVER

West Milford or North Jersey area Experience & Transportation and a valid drivers license a must Call

973-728-0842

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Part time Clerk drivers needed to deliver meals-on-wheels to town residents that are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals and to provide transportation services for our dial-a-ride program to go to doctor’s ofﬁces and hospitals for appointments. Hours will vary between 9:00am - 4:00pm Monday to Friday approximately 19.5 hours per week. Must possess a valid NJ driver’s license. $12-$18 per hour per for application see job opportunities on website https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 16W03

14W08

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 11W09

Belleville Pharmacy is looking for a dependable, team player to ﬁll two positions. •Sales Associate, morning shift Monday through Friday. •Delivery Driver who must have a clean driving record and available Monday through Saturday.

OFFICE HELP BOOKKEEPER/ ASSISTANT PT Local Wholesale Dairy Distributor Bi-Lingual: Spanish and English Must be organized and highly motivated Seeks a reliable Person to work in our Customer Service department and assist with bookkeeping duties, experienced with QuickBooks Send Resume to: Farm.Fresh.Foodservice @gmail.com Then call to let us know you sent your resume to us. Ask for Steve or Pam (973)754-9775 EXT 3000

Full Time with beneﬁts Receptionist for ophthalmologist ofﬁce Please Fax resume to Natalie Tavares 201-896-0062 16W03

16W03

We are looking to hire experienced gutter installers. Driver License Preferred Salary commensurates with experience. Location Belleville NJ Call 551-253-7664 for more information 14W03

Ofﬁce cleaning person, Mon to Fri, 2:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Drivers license needed for driving company car. Call 201-705-2442 or 201-306-4367 15W03

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+.

Car Painter needed for Body Shop on Schuyler Ave., Kearny. Experience Preferred Cal and ask for Macario (201) 997-0295 16W03

Body man Well established Auto Body Shop, is seeking an experienced body man. Colormycar Auto Body, Ironbound Newark. Call 973-589-6274 or 973-868-0757 14W03

Part Time Vacuum Repair Technician. Great for a handy person, part time work. Repair vacuum appliance, will train. 9am-1pm M-F $F15/HR (201)955-0001 to schedule interview 14W03

14W03

Full Time Pizzeria cook/pizza maker wanted for Harrison & Kearny Area pizzeria Call (973) 380-9007

Teacher Assistant needed for full time position at a Christian preschool. Must have experience working with preschool age children. Please email resume to mrscarla80@yahoo.com 16W03

Apply in person at 338 Washington Ave. Belleville, NJ 07109 or email resume to bellevillepharmacy338@gmail.com 14W03

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Receptionist - Full/Part time Body shop needs receptionist. Must speak English and Portuguese or Spanish. Must have knowledge of Word and Excel.Send resume to: resume@colormycar.com or call 973-589-6274 or 973-868-0757 14W03

Account clerk/ library assistant FT position, 35 hrs wk. Exp pref, valid NJ DL req. Sal $37,570. For details and applic, go to www.kearnynj.org. 16W03

14W03

Auto Body 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. Starting at $18.00/hr. Colormycar Auto Body, Ironbound Newark. Call 973-589-6274 or 973-868-0757

PT & FT positions available. Seeking a qualiﬁed bilingual Front Desk Receptionist for a busy Chiropractic ofﬁce. We are looking for a friendly, energetic person who works well under pressure. Bilingual (English/Spanish) a must! Monday through Saturday, hours vary, morning and evening. Call (973) 482-1600 ask for Annabel or Belkis

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

14W03

SERVICES OFFERED 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 46W26

House keeping & some care giving. Must speak Portuguese $12.00 per HR 3 to 4 hours a day up to 7 days a week call (201)679-0761 16W03

HALL FOR RENT

Advertise your talents with

The Observer Your ad will appear in print & online and will reach thousands of loyal customers in print & on the web

14W03

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 14W03

Wanted Driver/Warehouse, mature individual for Foodservice CO. must posses good driving record. Salary plus Bonus Call 973-754-9775 EXT 3000 14W03

CLOSED SEPTEMBER 6th DEADLINES Display & Real Estate Ads - Thursday @ 3PM Classiﬁed Ads - Friday @ 2PM Obituaries - Friday @ 10AM

Call (201) 991-1600 15W06

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Observer Classifieds

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

BELLEVILLE 2ND Fl, 2 BR Apt. HT/HW Included. 1 months security. No Pets/Smoking. AVL.September 1st . Call Maria (973) 759-7077 14W03

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

HARRISON

HARRISON/E.NEWARK apartment on 2nd floor in new home with 3 bedrooms 2 baths Living room Dining room and kitchen. Hardwood Floors, Central AC and parking for one car. $2100, Utilities Seperate. No Pets. Available September 1st (201)7251212 15W03

KEARNY BELLEVILLE 1 bedroom garden apartment on Garden Avenue, heat and hot water included, laundry facilities on site, one parking space. Nice location – No Pets - $1,100.00 per month rent, 1 ½ month security. Please call 973-699-3146 14W03

BELLEVILLE 1st floor. 1 BR. LR. EIK. Jacuzzi. $1100 + 2 months security. Utilities included. No Pets/Smoking. Couple Preferred. Available September 1st (201)8528216 15W03

HARRISON HARRISON 2nd fl, 2 BR, LR, EIK, parking for 1 car. Laundry coin operated. no pets/smoking. $1700 + 1 month security. Available Now (201)736-3538 14W03

HARRISON (2) twobedroom apartments, new home. With parking $2,100/without parking $2,000. No pets. 1-month rent deposit & 1st months rent. No more than 4 people per apartment. Laundry Hook-Up. Utilities separate. Available August 16th (201)6285195 14W03

HARRISON 2 BR’s.1 Bath. EIK. $1700 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. No pets/smoking. Available September 1st (973)953-2724 14W03

KEARNY Arlington Section 2 BR’s. 1 Bath. Open space concept, LR. Kitchen, New Stove & built in microwave. New floors.1 Parking space included. $1650 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now call (201)9918240 15W03

KEARNY 2nd FL, 3 bedrooms, utilities separate. No smoking/No pets call or text (201)543 1382

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

LYNDHURST LYNDHURST 1st floor. Large Studio Apt. Full bath. EIK. No Pets/Smoking, $1200 + 1 months security. Available Sept 15th or Oct 1st. All utilities included. Call between 9am - 5pm (201)6554663 or (201)655-4664 15W03

LYNDHURST 2 BR. Large EIK. Large LR. $1850. H/ HW included. Backyard. Ceramic Tile, Hardwood Floors throughout. Finished basement available too (973)277-0942 16W03

N.ARLINGTON

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.

RUTHERFORD

1 BR second floor front $1400 Month rent.

All have new Heat & AC 16W03 Supply own heat/electric. No Pets/Smoking. Perfect for couples 1/2 months security. Available Now & KEARNY Newly renoOctober 1st vated 2nd floor. 2 BR. LR. Call (201)997-3532 DR. EIK. Bath. Hardwood 15W03 floors, Arlington Section, Washer Hook up, Yard, Small outside porch, $1750, pay own utilities, 1 NORTH ARLINGTON month security. No Pets/ 2nd Floor. Studio, Smoking. Credit Score Separate Kitchen in Garden Apartment Complex. and References required. Location! $1200 + Call 917-282-1691 15W03 Great 1 months security. H/HW Included. Laundry on Premise. Parking available. Single or Couple preferred. No Pets/Smoking. KEARNY 3rd Floor. 1 Available Now. Call 10am - 7pm BR, EIK, $1,375 + 1 1/2 (201)997-2341 months security. Utilities 14W03 not included. No pets/ smoking. Avl. Now. Credit Check required (973) 309-5773 16W03

N.NEWARK

N.NEWARK 1 bedroom and kitchen. Close to transportation. Utilities included. No Pets. 1 person or couple Available Now. Call between Noon- 7pm (973)202-5103 16W01

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

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

erickconstructionnj.com Free estimates - Fully insured Lic#13VH04302300 10W54

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

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

(201) 998-1262 15W06

ROOFING/SIDING B&A ROOFING

High quality job at a affordable price Specialize in Shingles, Flat Roofs, New & repair siding,gutters, Tree Removal

and windows FREE ESTIMATES (201)719-3074

Moving away everything must go. 4 Pine Street, North Arlington. call between 10AM - 5PM Monday - Sunday (201)9972073 (201)956-3386 (201)279-9733 16W03

GARAGE SALE 14 Hedden Terrace North Arlington August 21 & 22 (Sat& Sun) 9AM-6PM Rain dates: August 28 & 29 Lawn chairs/Garden Tools/Ladders/Flower Pots/Housewares/Home Deco’s/Electronics (Bose Speakers, Etc.) Halloween & XMAS Decos/Accessories/Clothes/Office Supplies 15W03

Sheetrocking, Plastering, Floors, Doors and more. Very neat and clean. You will be happy with our service and prices. Refrences available Senior Discounts Call for the best price (201) 565-6393.

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

2010 Toyota Highlander 114k miles 3rd row Remote start Car play radio Backup camera Current inspection $13k OBO Call (973)489-1888 16W03

Exterminating Fast Service • Roaches • Ants • Bed Bugs • Fleas Call 973-932-2092 Licensed and Insured 13W06

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

(201) 906-2422 14W06

Roofing,

Kevin’s Affordable Painting

PEST CONTROL

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC.

Siding, Windows/Doors, Decks, Gutter Cleaning Painting, Tiles & Masonry, Sheet Rock. All types of Carpentry

PAINTERS

PEST CONTROL

50W52

G&R BUILDERS

(973)906-8404

1998 Toyota Corolla VE 4Dr Sedan Sandrift -Auto -AC-ETR Cass/Radio. New Alt & Battery -76K Miles-One Owner Good Condition N Arl. $1600 Firm. 732-267-8937/ les2345@verizon.net

LACA CORP

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

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CAR FOR SALE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Licensed & Insured

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15W03

KEARNY 1st floor. 3 BR, Pay own utilities. $1,500 + 1 1/2 months security. Railroad style apt. Near Transportation. No pets/ smoking Available Now (973) 290-2788 16W01

RUBBISH REMOVAL A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

16W06 RUTHERFORD 2 bedrooms, LR, DR, kitchen, Bath. H/HW included. No PLUMBING Pets. $1,625 + 1 month & HEATING security. Excellent Location. Close to school and transportation Available JOSEPH V. FERRIERO now (201)696-7094 14W03 Plumbing & Heating Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry. MOVING Hot Water Heaters. Fully Ins. Lic# 165

FOR SALE

N.ARLINGTON 3-Family owner occupied. 2 Apartments for Rent. 1 Big BR, plus 2nd floor rear $1600 month rent.

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

paylessroofingservices.com LIC#13VH00418100

FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts

(201) 893-0656 Lic. #13VH02536200 15W06

DRIVEWAY PAVING FRANK’S ASPHALT MAINTENANCE

• Blacktop •Parking Lots •Sealcoating & Repairs • Cracks •Pot Holes •Paving •Belgian Blocks •Retaining Walls

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LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

AUTO DETAILING

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC

DETAILING Lic & Ins complete auto disinfect and detail, local pick up 8am & del 1pm, Michael Anthony 201-246-7852

13W04

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•Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991

What an ad on Craigslist gets you ... • A free ad • No-shows • Headaches • People from other regions of NJ • scammers What an Observer Classified gets you ... • local readership • local buyers • Access to thousands of people who support our advertisers • Placement in a 134-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

18 HCCC offering ESL certificate

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Hudson County Community College now offers a certificate program that will provide high-level written and oral English language skills for students whose native language is not English. The English as a Second Language (ESL) Proficiency Certificate program will address the needs of the college’s immigrant-student population, and all those who have immigrated to the United States and wish to enhance their opportunities for professional employment. HCCC President Chris Reber said about one-fifth of HCCC students study ESL. “Ours is a community of immigrants, many of whom come to America with baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees earned in their native countries,” Reber said.

The certificate verifies those who earn the certification may competently speak, read and write English. In addition to successfully completing the ESL reading and writing courses, students complete English 112 (speech), CSC 100 (introduction to computers and computing), any general course in mathematics or science and any two general education courses in humanities or social sciences. Those interested may enroll in the program at www.hccc.edu/apply, where they may complete the online application. Additional information about the program and the availability of financial assistance may be obtained by sending an email to admissions@ hccc.edu, by calling (201) 714-7200 or texting (201) 509-4222. — CANESSA

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Harrison Little League field almost ready

Photos courtesy of Larry Bennett

Harrison’s Little League field on Harrison Avenue is almost ready to be reopened after a massive renovation project. Last week, Councilman Larry Bennett shows a chunk of the turf that was laid on the field the next day. Below, a look at some of the new, advance playground equipment that will be much safer for children to use. The town hopes the field is reopened by September.

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• Boilers • Bathroom Remodeling • Oil to Gas Conversions

• Sewers Video Camera Inspections

Spending the summer learning soccer

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

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Contributed photo

While many kids were taking part in summer school programs, close to 70 Harrison youngsters were participating in the rec department’s soccer camp for kids in first- through sixth-grade. Seen here are many of the campers along with Recreation Director Larry Kelly, far left, Councilman Mike Dolaghan, next to Kelly, Councilman Larry Bennett, second from the right and Port Authority Police Officer John Guevara, who is also a recreation coach for Harrison’s traveling soccer program, scouting out his future talent.

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

VAX

Continued from Page 1 for the Harrison School District and the assistant superintendent of schools, by title. He says he strongly hopes the governor mandates staff vaccinations for school employees. “I firmly believe that every public school employee should be vaccinated for Covid-19 and hope that the governor and state Department Of Education would mandate same,” Doran, also a Harrison councilman, told The Observer. “This mandate would further support the BOE goals for continuity of instruction leading to less teacher absenteeism, safer school environments and the reduction of Covid-19 spread. The Harrison BOE is also encouraging the mandatory vaccination of all students 12-17 years old for the very same reasons. “We are vigorously offering opportunities for students to get vaccinated via the Harrison Health Department. We also support preparing for the vaccination approval for the younger (3- to 12-year-old) students. There is no question that there has been a loss of learning for our students due to the pandemic. Fully vaccinating staff and students is the only way to protect the health and academic success of our students. “We are preparing for fullday, in-person instruction of all grades effective Sept. 8. We will be following the CDC and state recommendations, requiring masks for all students, staff and visitors. We will also practice social distancing wherever possible. Hopefully, with increased vaccinations, we will be able to return to a no-mask policy in the near future.” The Observer also spoke with a teacher who works under Doran in Harrison, but who asked for anonymity for fear sharing their opinion could lead to reprisals. That teacher said “no way” to being forced into getting the vaccine. “I am a grown adult and I make my own decisions — I do not needing anyone telling me what I will and won’t inject into my body,” the teacher told The Observer. “This isn’t

The Observer | www.theobserver.com about personalities or politics, either. I like the governor. I like the leadership in the district a lot. But I should not have to get injected with a vaccine that is still only on an emergency-use authorization. OK? It’s that easy. If they tell me I have to get the shot, I’m not doing it. If it costs me my job, it costs me my job.” The aforementioned teacher did say if the government offered a financial incentive to get the vaccine, “It might be a completely different story.”

WHAT ARE PARENTS SAYING?

The Observer also spoke with a smattering of parents in our readership area. Their reactions to the possible mandate vary. Alexander J. Rosen is the father of a sixth-grader in Harrison. He says the governor is doing the right thing, especially since Murphy isn’t allowing hybrid-learning options at the start of the 2021-2022 academic year. “I am still not sure I want my son going to school, especially now with the Delta variant,” Rosen said. “But since he has to go in, I want to be sure his teachers are going to be safe. It’s one thing to wear a mask, but a new ballgame when it comes to the vaccine. I still just don’t get it why anyone wouldn’t want to have a vaccine for a disease that has proven again and again to be so deadly. So I say protect the kids — make sure the teachers are vaccinated or don’t let them teach.” Rosen is not alone. Maria Rosa Grotto, the mother of two high schoolaged children, says she’s all for the forced vaccination on teachers. “It’s just so stupid to do it any way other than to mandate vaccine for teachers,” Grotto said. “I am not really someone who wants to force anybody to do anything, but this … this is very different. Nothing in my life matters more than the safety of my daughter and son. So, yeah, let them get the vaccine. Shouldn’t they want to get it anyway?” But not all parents are in favor of forcing teachers to get the shot, especially if it’s against their will. Salvatore DiBenedetto is the father of three children — two in grammar school and one in

high school — and he’s confident his kids’ teachers will use universal precautions not to get them sick. “I believe grown adults, especially teachers, will know that if they have COVID, they shouldn’t be in school,” DiBenedetto said. “The kids will be required to wear masks during the school day and the teachers will be masked up too, right? So let’s think about this. Isn’t that enough to make sure the kids are safe? No one, not just teachers, should be

CDC image

forced to do this. It’s not right and typical Phil Murphy. The guy just got back from Italy and I would bet anything he didn’t wear a mask wherever he went. Or if he did, he did it just for the cameras so he didn’t look like an idiot. That’s not hard for him to do anyway.” Check back at www. theobserver.com for updates to this evolving story. If there are any, they’ll also appear in the Sept. 1, 2021, edition of The Observer.

THINK OF THE

POSSIBILITIES. CONSIDER PRINTWORK FOR YOUR BUSINESS!

COUNTER CARDS Any flat surface or countertop becomes premium space with easel-backed, full color Counter Cards. Use them in glass display cases, on bookshelves, register counters and tabletops. • Gyms, Studios, Business Offices (Advertising, promos, etc.) • Hotels (Including pricing and service lists) • Real Estate Offices (Inc. property info, pricing, etc.) • Schools • Retail Stores (Showcasing product details)

MOUNTED CANVAS High quality artist canvas printed and mounted on light and durable stretcher bars. Perfect to be used as gifts or businesses! • Business Wall Decoration • Gifts for Anniversary/Wedding • Home Decorations

TRADING CARDS Trade artwork, photos, and just about any image or message imaginable! • Informational Cards • Networking Cards • Promotional Business Cards

, H C U M AND ORE! MUCH M

Call 201.991.1600 for more info.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

DENTISTRY DEDICATED

TO EXCELLENCE. With combined experience of 50 years, Dr. Elfar and his team of dental professionals, provide the highest

$99*

quality of dentistry at affordable prices!

NEW PATIENT EXAM, CLEANING AND X-RAYS

SERVICES • General Dentistry

• Invisalign

*FOR NONINSURED PATIENTS

• Cosmetic Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry • Implants

• Periodontics

• Dentures

• Preventative/

• Oral Surgery

FREE

CONSULTATIONS (FOR IMPLANTS & INVISALIGN ONLY.

Hygiene

X-RAYS NOT INCLUDED.)

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

$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 • EARLY, LATE AND WEEKEND HOURS 837 KEARNY AVE. KEARNY, NJ T: 201.991.1055

NEW LOCATION!

645 MAIN ST. • HACKENSACK, NJ T: 201.347.5001

WWW.GENUINESMILESPA.COM

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