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Wednesday, 1 December 2021

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

Vol. CXXXIV, No. 30

Happy Hanukkah to all of our Jewish readers & advertisers

CHRISTMAS FOREST O N

very holiday season since 2019, Yoli and Eddie Vaz, of Forest Avenue in Lyndhurst, and their neighbors, the Turano family, create an epic Christmas display for young and old to enjoy. This year is perhaps the most extravagant display they’ve ever created. The main photo is of the Vaz Family home and the two smaller photos are of Bobby Turano’s home and his dad’s next door, who join in on the display each year. “As the owners of Eddie and Yoli’s Tire Shop, and Bobby as the owner of Turano Brothers Home Improvement, we want to bring smiles and joy to family, friends and community for the holidays,” Eddie says. We say mission accomplished. If you want to see the display, take a ride after sundown, past 226 & 228 Forest Ave., Lyndhurst. (There’s also plenty to see in the daylight hours, too.) You won’t be disappointed.

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AT THANKSGIVING, LOCAL ORGS By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

ith another Thanksgiving in the books, we take a look back at how some in our communities pitched in to make the annual holiday all about others, those in great need. Of course, it ought not come as a surprise that many area organizations showed something they so often do — extensive generosity. TROOP 305 SCOUTS IN KEARNY Scouts and leaders from Unit 305 went “Scouting for Food” to restock the shelves of the food pantry at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny. Parishioners at each of the weekend Masses in early November donated 2,059 non-perishable food items, the second highest amount collected to date. However, as a credit to the Scouting program, this year had the highest number of volunteers participating, including 34 scouts and leaders assisting over two days.

During Halloween weekend, Scouts distributed yellow “Scouting for Food” bags after all Masses with a suggested shopping list of items most needed to help fill baskets for Thanksgiving. Over the first weekend of November, scouts collected the bags filled with nonperishable food for the pantry before each Mass. Scouts and leaders volunteered nearly 100 total hours to gather the items, sort them into categories, reorganize the shelves and restock the food pantry with the donated goods. “Scouting for Food” is a Boy Scouts of America service project that began in 1988 to Top: Belleville PBA members move food donated to the Belleville Junior address the growing number of families with Woman’s Club. Bottom: Scouts moving food at St. Stephen’s Kearny. children requesting emergency food. Over the years, as more families struggled to provide nourishment, Scouts continued efforts to help Michelle service advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 feed the hungry. Providing community is at the core of scouting whereNewspaper: the boys are Client: encouraged to “Do a Good Turn Daily.” For Unit 305, this is not just a slogan, but a call to action. St. Stephen’s Church, sponsor of Unit 305,

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ALWAYS LOOK OUT FOR OTHERS hosts its food pantry year-round and works with the Kearny Food Pantry Network administered by volunteers attached to First Presbyterian Church. Donations may continue to be made at any Mass and dropped off in large plastic bins inside St. Stephen’s vestibule.

JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB OF BELLEVILLE Over in Belleville, the Junior Woman’s Club there took an active role in making it a better Thanksgiving for the township’s residents who were in need — and they did so with the help of the Belleville Police Benevolent Association and numerous other volunteers. Top: Harrison Elks prepare to bring baskets to local families with Councilman Larry Marta Cirilli was the driving force behind the Bennett, right. Bottom: Harrisonfest members join Anselmo Millan in preparing movement of a substantial amount of donated Thanksgiving baskets for local residents. goods. The club also partnered with the school district and various Belleville businesses. The club collected food and brought it to the Little League clubhouse on Nov. 15, where it was broken down and sorted for distribution

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to the Belleville Safe House, the St. Peter’s and St. Valentine’s churches food pantry and Little Zion. Members of the PBA distributed the food — which included turkeys — to families in need. “This is truly a community collaboration that works to help those in our community who are in need,” Cirilli said. THE TOWN OF HARRISON As per their usual, the Mayor and Council, in conjunction with the Harrison-East Newark Elks, prepared food baskets for more than 300 families in the two towns. Elks members delivered every basket to the homes personally so the recipients didn’t have to find a way to get somewhere to pick them up. Harrison Councilman Larry Bennett coordinated the efforts between the Elks and the town. See THANKS, Page 19

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Opinion....................................................................................Page 6 Sports......................................................................................Page 9 Health & Wellness Directory...............................................Page 11

Obituaries...............................................................................Page 13 Classiﬁeds ....................................................................... Pages 16-17 Business Directory............................................................Pages 18

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Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Street renamed for fallen Newark cop who called Belleville his home town

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

e gave his life serving his community — and now Newark Det. Michael Morgan, a native son of Belleville, is being remembered as a very

good man, a loving son and a dedicated cop who sought to serve and protect the most vulnerable. On the 10th anniversary of the night Det. Morgan was gunned down on Nov. 7, 2011, by a gang member, Belleville paid tribute to him by renaming Carpenter Street

as Det. Michael Morgan Jr. Way at an event attended by Mayor Michael Melham and members of the Belleville Township Council, as well as friends, family members and members of law enforcement from several surrounding towns. They joined together at the street corner to honor the

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man who once said he wanted to be a police officer to “make a difference.” His mother, Phyllis, attended the ceremony, which included solemn music from the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums. Growing up in Belleville, Det. Morgan could often be found playing sports in the township’s streets, lots and fields. He grew so strong and agile he went on to play football at New Jersey City University. His life cut short at just 32, Det. Morgan fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming a cop in 2005 when he was assigned to Newark’s Second Precinct. He served on the Auto Theft Task Force before being promoted to detective and joining the Criminal Gang

Intelligence Unit in 2006. Det. Morgan focused his energies on the Safe City Program that got guns off the street, and his work was featured on the Sundance Channel’s “Brick City,” as well as Nat Geo’s “Drugs Inc.” Det. Morgan was shot and killed while off-duty on Nov. 7, 2011, in Paterson. He was leaving a party when a gang member tried to rob him at gunpoint. He was shot as he attempted to draw his service weapon. “Belleville will always be proud of Michael Morgan Jr. for dedicating his life and giving his life to keep others safe,” Melham said. “This street sign will forever serve as a reminder of his courage and dedication to the people he served.”

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Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Thoughts & Views

Coach Bill Galka: Thank you for support of KHS boys’ soccer Thanks for allowing GUEST COMMENTARY

me to serve for the next 4 years

want to thank everyone who exercised their right to vote Nov. 2 and for their continued support that allows me to represent them on the Bergen County Board of Commissioners. I am humbled to have emerged from the election with highest vote total from North Arlington of any county-wide candidate on the ballot. I am extremely proud of the work we have done on the board since I left the North Arlington Council in January 2013. Among our accomplishment are the ability to deliver multiple, $0-tax increase budgets, battling the Covid-19 pandemic and increasing transparency of county government by livestreaming our meetings and moving them out of Hackensack so more people can attend them. During my tenure on the county board, we re-aligned the county police into the sheriff’s department, eliminated duplicate police services while improving public safety and saving taxpayers $200 million. We have also focused on eliminating duplicative government, and now have shared-service agreements in place with all 70 municipalities in the county, which results in real tax-dollar saving for all taxpayers. Having championed the first-ever Bergen County Parks masterplan, I’m excited about the complete transformation of Riverside County Park on River Road. I look forward to the new park enhancements and additional outdoor activities they will offer South Bergen residents for years to come. As a voting member of the Open Space Board, I championed every open space fund request presented to the board by North Arlington and Lyndhurst and was able to help secure $444,847 in Open Space grant money for North Arlington and $301,806 for Lyndhurst — thus giving taxpayers a sizable return on their county tax dollar. Some of the projects that were funded by the Open Space Trust fund include, North Arlington: James Zadroga Memorial Soccer Field synthetic turf; Daniel Morris and Columbus Park improvements; Fisher Field: new playground, landscaping, walkway, fencing, lighting, courts and furniture. Lyndhurst: Gutheil Park: new playground structures, bench seating and rubberized flooring, Town Hall Park Accessible Playground: Playground equipment. In my next (new) term, I look forward to serving all the people of Bergen County, while paying special attention to the needs of South Bergen. Again, I want to thank you for your support. If you have questions about the services that county government offers to you or your family, please call my office. Bergen County Commission Chairman Steven A. Tanelli North Arlington

To the Editor: On behalf of myself, my assistant coach Scott Millar and the Kearny High School boys’ varsity soccer team, I would like to send out a heartfelt thank you to the very many who supported us on our very exciting State Championship run these past few weeks. I would have to believe we have the largest support in not only NJ but the United States. The Kearny Army which it is known in some circles came out in the thousands at Kean University last Saturday, not to mention the many who watched it online. I knew it was coming, but I have to say I was surprised and taken back when they had to open the bleachers on the other side of the stadium to accommodate our fans. I believe that is a first at the finals at Kean. It has always been a joy to play and coach soccer, but to be able to play in front of a knowledgeable, passionate crowd is something very difficult to explain. A crowd

Letter to the Editor made up of your family, friends, Kearny students and faculty, colleagues, teachers (active and retired), former teammates, former coaches, current Kearny residents and the many former Kearny residents who still follow the team. We had an excellent group of players this year who were more than deserving

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

of being State Champions. They demonstrated those great traits you need to succeed — hard work, grit ,determination, discipline and plenty of talent. I know I can speak for them by saying thank you for your support not just two Saturdays ago, but always. Your well wishes and congratulations are much appreciated! Happy holidays and God bless you. Bill Galka KHS Boys’ Soccer Head Coach

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7 NAPD: 3 cars with keys left in them stolen in one week

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

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was stolen from his vehicle. The resident believes it was stolen on Nov. 21 between 2 to 6 a.m. Finally, on Nov. 23 at 2:31 p.m., a resident reported a catalytic converter was stolen from his vehicle. The resident believes it was stolen between 6 p.m., Nov. 21 and 7:15 a.m., Nov. 22. On Nov. 24 at 12:45 p.m., patrol officers were dispatched to United Check Cashing on a report of a woman attempting to cash a fraudulent check. As a result, Alaiyah Wood, 27, of Bristol, Pennsylvania, was placed under arrest and charged accordingly — and she was later released on her own recognizance with a summons.

By Det. Lt. Michael Horton No. Arlington Police Dept.

hree unattended vehicles with keys left inside them were stolen recently in North Arlington and police continue to remind residents never to leave cars unlocked with the keys in them. The first incident was on Nov. 18 at 4:48 p.m., when a customer at Boston Market on Ridge Road parked his vehicle in the parking lot and entered the store to pickup food, but left his vehicle running with the keys in the ignition. When he returned, the vehicle was gone. A BOLO was given to surrounding towns. Shortly after, Belleville police observed the vehicle. After a brief pursuit, the juvenile suspect was taken into custody and charged accordingly. The next day, on Nov. 19 at 8:27 a.m., patrol officers responded to the area of Halsey Place on a report of a stolen motor vehicle. The vehicle was taken out of a driveway with the keys left inside of it the previous night. The vehicle was later recovered in Newark. The last incident took place Nov. 23 at 6:41 a.m. In

that case, patrol responded to Prospect Avenue on a report of a stolen motor vehicle. The vehicle was taken out of the driveway with the keys left in the vehicle the previous night. In the same week, meanwhile, three catalytic converters were stolen from vehicles. First, on Nov. 22 at 7:06 p.m., a resident reported a catalytic converter was stolen from his vehicle. Next, on Nov. 22 at 9:21 a.m., a resident reported that a catalytic converter

W.H.A.T. auditions for ‘Almost, Maine,’ upcoming The West Hudson Arts & Theater Co. hosts open auditions for its first Main Stage production scheduled for 2022, “Almost, Maine,” on Dec. 1 and 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Hartung Center, 925 Passaic Ave. Show dates are Feb. 11, 12 and 13. Actors ages 16 to 80+ are invited to read from the provided sides. THE SHOW Welcome to Almost, Maine, a small town in northern Maine where the skies are clear enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights once a year. One cold, magical winter night, the ordinary people of Almost find themselves falling in and out of love in the strangest of ways. Playwright John Cariani’s masterpiece, “Almost Maine” (directed by

Brooke Gorsica) is one of the most popularly produced plays in the past decade. Originally premiering off-Broadway in 2006, the show follows the individual stories of eight different couples who all experience the magic of love as the clock strikes 9 p.m. on the same cold and slightly surreal winter night. Please note: A few scenes in “Almost Maine” have intimate moments such as kissing. Because of COVID-19, only fully vaccinated actors will be considered for these scenes to limit the risk of spreading the disease. All non-vaccinated actors are still welcome to audition for scenes that do not include these moments of intimacy. Please visit www.whatconj. org for details and audition materials.

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Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Rockabilly Christmas in Manhattan worth seeing By JoAnn Barton Special to The Observer These days, I am very particular on which events I attend, and I sure am glad I chose to attend the Original Rockabilly Christmas for its premier Nov. 26, a live performance from vocalist/ entertainer Shea Arender at the Swing 46 Jazz and

Supper Club on West 46th Street in New York City. I honestly did not know what to expect other than this was going to be a show with upbeat Christmas songs. Much to my surprise, it was upbeat Christmas songs, indeed; however, it was mostly songs from Elvis Presley’s Christmas catalogue.

For me, that meant Christmas came early. Every Christmas, my entire life, all that was and is still heard is Elvis Christmas music. This was the perfect way for me personally to kick off the feeling of Christmas. The club itself is notoriously famous for hosting legends such as Liza Minelli, the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra

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and even Don Most from “Happy Days.” The atmosphere was pure old time jazz club with a speakeasy feel and extremely comfortable. Smack dab in the middle of Restaurant Row in NYC, you can enjoy many entertainers with a delicious meal but on this night, it was Shea Arender. The Girl Behind the Curtain Productions and Arender himself, put together this wonderful ensemble of a seven-piece band and two female background vocalists, which sounded much fuller than you would expect, and the sound quality was pitch perfect. Not only do you get to enjoy great music in this blast from the past atmosphere, but with the purchase of your ticket, you get a three-course meal — and the food was delicious. The show was powerful and constantly moving. Arender, of course, threw in Elvis moves and you could see he had no control of what he was doing. The music itself took over his body. It ran through him and just moved him to every beat of the drum and every note played. Arender took us through a walk of the history of Rockabilly. Hailing from Louisiana, Arender spoke of the Louisiana Hayride, which Elvis himself had performed on in the early days of his career. Rockabilly is one of the earliest styles of rock, but to get more details on it, you will love how Arender explains it. He not only tells the story of Rockabilly, but he does it with music. Along with this orchestra were Arender’s extremely talented backup singers, Sarah Hayes and Jade Litaker. Both took a few solo spots but were always filling the background on key and making the vocals even more powerful. Not only will you hear classic Christmas songs at this event, you will also hear some early good old rock/ rockabilly songs such as “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Boppin in the Blues,” “Great Balls of Fire” and more. Arender’s vocals were

impeccable, specifically when doing the Elvis tunes. When Arender is not performing in New York for The Original Rockabilly Christmas show, he is an American Symphony producer, vocalist, arranger and songwriter, entrepreneur, Broadway producer and is the CEO/ owner of the Las Vegas Symphony Orchestra. Since July 2013, he has been executive producing Harold Arlen’s Broadway Estate musical “The Wonderful Wizard of Song” musical, first taking the show to New York City for a two-year off-Broadway run and a one-year Broadway touring production. The Harold Arlen 550 song catalog is one of the largest music catalogs in American music history, and he is most proud of this work keeping one of the greatest songbooks alive and in Broadway theaters around the world. When not performing on stage and producing around the world, he partakes in his love for the Rockabilly era by recording the classics of Sun Studios era and collecting vintage items like the mint condition, original 1957 Pink Cadillac previously owned by the King himself. The show currently has a limited engagement and runs through Dec. 3. If you are going to see the tree in Rockefeller Center and take in the Christmas scene, start the evening off with great entertainment to get you in the Christmas mood and enjoy a wonderful meal while enjoying great music. You may catch the show Thursdays and Friday at 6 p.m. For tickets and to receive a 10% discount, go to www. rockabillychristmasnyc. com and enter the code: rockabilly10. To hear more about Shea Arender, please listen back to my interview with him on www.applauseradioshow. com. You may also listen to my interview with singer/ songwriter Lisa Panagos Nov. 30 at 9 p.m. to win tickets to see singer Amy Grant.

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

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Sports & Recreation WITH

Jim Hague

Kearny soccer and athletic legend Briscoe passes at 79

ogsmar@aol.com

Harrison, NA kids ﬁnish grid season in style at MetLife Stadium Bobby Crudele is a Harrison police officer who has been a volunteer coach with the North Arlington Recreation department for ages. Over the years, Crudele has developed a good relationship with the New York Jets, who graciously allowed North Arlington’s junior football team to play at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, when the Giants and Jets were not occupying the facility. In years past, Crudele set up a game between North Arlington and the Kearny Generals to play there, but the Generals suspended operations last year in wake of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Wanting to keep with tradition, Crudele wanted to see if another local team would be interested in playing there. “Why not Harrison?” Crudele asked. “I’ve been a cop there for 22 years. I always try to help them out.” As it turned out, the powers-that-be in Harrison were all for the idea. “I thought it would be a great opportunity for the kids,” said Mike Camara, a former Observer Athlete of the Week during his playing days at Harrison. “We’re not really a football oriented town.” No, soccer rules in Har-

rison. It’s just the way of the world. But Camara has been coaching youth football in Harrison for five years. “Something like this will encourage signups for the fall,” Camara said. “The kids were all shocked that they were getting a chance to play there. It might be their only chance of going to MetLife.” The Jets accommodated both teams with tickets for their recent game with the Cincinnati Bengals, a game the Jets won, and then North Arlington and Harrison squared off afterwards. Although MetLife Stadium can be seen from the outskirts of both municipalities, it might be a light year away for some of these eager youngsters. “Most 11-and-12 year old kids don’t get a chance to go to MetLife for any reason,” Camara said. “So when we told them, they were really looking forward to this game.” North Arlington veteran head coach Jay Leiner felt the same way. “I was excited for the kids,” Leiner said. “We had a tough season. We had a very young team of seventh graders playing eighth graders. Once the kids found out they were going See VIEW, Page 11

Photos courtesy of NJCU athletic communications

The late Tommy Briscoe with former NJCU soccer standout goalkeeper Manny Lojo a few years ago. Briscoe died last week of an aggressive brain cancer. INSET: The late Tommy Briscoe was a Kearny native who was a star soccer player at the school and later coached both the boys and girls’ soccer teams at Kearny High, eventually becoming the school’s athletic director.

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com Santiago Formoso is one of the most storied soccer players to come out of “Soccertown USA” namely Kearny. Before he became a member of the famed New York Cosmos teams of the late 1970s, a team that featured Pele and constantly filled Giants Stadium to the rafters, Formoso played at Kearny High School, where he played for a man with strong Irish roots like a good portion of the town named Tommy Briscoe. “He tried to teach the game correctly,” Formoso recalled about Briscoe, who died last week after a battle with brain cancer. “He was more into fitness first. We would come in for training and then run like crazy. After a while, we got used to it. He was a total gentleman who cared about people. He was just a wonderful man.” Briscoe was a great soccer

player in his heyday, eventually going to Jersey City State College (now New Jersey City University), where he was regarded as the school’s alltime greatest player. A charter member of the school’s Hall of Fame in 1979, Briscoe was the all-time leading goal scorer at the school when he graduated in 1966 and still stands seventh on the all-time list more than five decades after he last played for the Gothic Knights. Briscoe played both right back and forward for the Gothic Knights and was a four-time First Team honoree in the old New Jersey State College Athletic Conference at both positions. In 1965, Briscoe scored an astounding 13 goals in nine games. He was selected as a participant for the East Coast Olympic Tryouts in 1966 and later that year, was the placekicker for the first-ever Jersey City State football team.

His kicking prowess eventually earned him a tryout with the Dallas Cowboys. After graduating from JCSC, Briscoe took a teaching and coaching job in his native Kearny, where he remained for 40 years. Briscoe became the head boys’ soccer coach, where he mentored players like Formoso, and was also the head girls’ soccer coach for several years. Eventually, Briscoe was elevated to the role of athletic director at the school, handling both roles as a history teacher and athletic director. Mike Granelli coached soccer at nearby St. Peter’s College for more than 25 years and resided in Kearny when Briscoe was the soccer king of the town. “He was an educated man,” Granelli said. “He was very friendly, a nice guy. I can’t say that he was in the “in” crowd, but I’d see him from time to See BRISCOE, Page 10

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few years with Briscoe. “He was a true friend,” Reed said. “I admire him for Continued from Page 9 that.” Reed became a coach time. He was strong, built like himself at Middlesex County an athlete should be.” Community College for three Bruce Reed is another seasons and he used to call Kearny soccer legend who Briscoe regularly for advice. was a teammate at Kearny “He was a major influence High with Formoso. on me there,” Reed said. “We “He was a great influence spoke a lot on the telephone a on my life,” Reed said. “He lot. He was the best guy to do took over a .500 team and anything for you.” turned it into a state chamJohn Millar, the legendary pion. He was based in tactiKearny soccer coach, was just cal strategy. He would work starting his coaching career us like we were in an Army when Briscoe was stepping boot camp. But I liked it. He aside. worked us hard, but he got “He just loved the game of about 95 percent of his tragsoccer,” Millar said. “He loved edy rubbed off on kids.” just going to the field, getting Reed sang glowingly about down on the field and mixing his former coach. and playing with the players. “He was a heck of a guy,” Tommy could strike a ball Reed said. “He was a combetter than anyone. He had a plete Irish gentleman who cannon of a shot. He was the best represented a Celtic war- man who hired me and gave rior. He pulled no punches.” me my shot. He was absoluteAnd Reed cherished the last ly a great guy. After I became

BRISCOE

the head coach, Tommy and would talk. He was a kind hearted guy who was willing to help anyone. I’ll always remember Tommy singing Irish and Scottish songs.” Jim Cifelli, the legendary track and field coach at Kearny High, also recalled Briscoe fondly. “Tommy was the AD (athletic director) when I started,” Cifelli said. “He was the kind of guy who let you do your own thing. He cared so much about the kids. He made sure the kids were treated properly. He was an honest guy, a straight forward guy who didn’t put up with the political crap. He was easy to talk to. He was kind spirited.” Cifelli recalled a time where he played golf with Briscoe. “We were playing golf in Belmar and a branch from a tree came down and knocked his contact lens out,” Cifelli said. “He had to go home because he couldn’t see. That’s

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my last memory of Tommy. He was just a nice guy.” Rutgers University women’s head soccer coach Mike O’Neill, a Kearny native who will lead his team to the NCAA College Cup Final Four this weekend in Santa Clara, California, also recalled Briscoe with fondness. “He was so good to so many people,” said O’Neill, speaking on the phone en route to Briscoe’s services. “He was so loved. He was so involved in my career and Robert (McCourt, the Monmouth University head men’s soccer coach). He was always supportive of who we were and where we are today. He was loved by so many people. He was like a second Dad to me. He’s what Kearny is all about.” Briscoe left Kearny in 1988 and moved to Marco Island, Florida, where he lived his final years. He taught history at Lely High School in Naples, Florida for 21 years and coached the boys’ soccer team at Lely, as well as both the boys’ and girls’ soccer teams at St. John Neumann High School. Briscoe’s funeral services were held in Spring Lake ear-

lier this week. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, four daughters and a son. Tommy and Pat Briscoe were married for 36 years. Incredibly, Briscoe was diagnosed with brain cancer in late October and passed away just three weeks later. He will be sorely missed by all who loved him. “I’d look forward to his phone calls to talk about soccer,” Formoso said. “It was good to hear someone else’s thoughts about a game. We would watch the Champions League games and then comment on them. We talked about once a week. We were both soccer addicts. Once you have a friend like Tommy, it doesn’t matter how much time passes. You reconnected with him and you had him for life.” “I just spoke with him about three weeks ago,” Reed said. “He said that he took his wife to the store. He didn’t want to talk about his illness. That’s who he was. He was my Coach until the end. Something like this shows you that life is a gift until the end. I’ll always remember his integrity and his fighting spirit.”

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VIEW

Continued from Page 9 to MetLife, their eyes lit up. They were on Cloud Nine.” When the two teams arrived at MetLife, they had the same reaction. “Once the kids stepped into the tunnel, they stopped dead in their tracks,” Leiner said. “They were in such awe. Here were two struggling teams getting an opportunity to play a game there. I’ve been coaching a long time and I never had a chance like that. It was incredible. Our kids are still talking about it. They’re telling their friends that they had a chance to play there. It worked out well.” “It was a surreal moment coming through the tunnel,” Camara said. “Some of them were quiet and others were hyped up.” The two teams battled in a defensive struggle, with North Arlington scoring one touchdown to none for Harrison. Giancarlo Glass scored the game’s lone touchdown for the Junior Vikings. Shane Crudele (Bobby’s son) was the winning

Photo courtesy of Bobby Crudele

The youth football teams at Harrison and North Arlington got together recently for a game at MetLife Stadium, after the Jets had defeated the Cincinnati Bengals.

quarterback, with linebacker/ running back Richie Vargas, running back Eli Gonzalez and middle linebacker/center Allen Frias all having great games for North Arlington. For Harrison, wide receiver/ cornerback Taijan Jennings is a player to watch, so are tight end/defensive end Michael Zamora and fullback/linebacker Julius Fernandez. “It was a thrill for me, because I’m a lifelong Jets fan,” Camara said. “We were season ticket holders at one point. But this was a good experience for everyone.” “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime

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Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Kearny natives lead Rutgers women’s soccer team Kearny natives McClelland, coach O’Neill, lead Rutgers to women’s soccer Final Four the former Observer Female Athlete of the Year in 2018, hails from Kearny, but the Scarlet For the second time in the last Knights’ head coach Mike six years, the Rutgers University O’Neill is also a Kearny native. women’s soccer team is headed “To understand Kearny, to the College Cup, also known you would have had to live in as the NCAA Final Four. Kearny,” said O’Neill, who has The Scarlet Knights punched been involved in women’s soctheir ticket to Santa Clara, cer at Rutgers for 22 years and California for the national semi- the head coach now for the last finals with a thrilling penalty six seasons. “Everyone wants to kick session against Arkansas, support everyone. There’s just a which saw Meagan McClelland special bond that is there. I can’t of Kearny not only make a save begin to tell you all the texts and in goal during the penalty kicks, emails I’ve received since we but scored on a kick of her own, won (over Arkansas). It’s really enabling the Scarlet Knights to special. Kearny always supports advance to face Florida State, Kearny. It’s always been that the nation’s No. 1-ranked squad. way. And it’s always home to Rutgers began the NCAA me. I have such unbelievable Tournament as the No. 5-ranked memories of the great people team in the country, but they’re from Kearny. It’s really a special not about to let any national place.” ranking stand in their way. And it may be the reason why The Scarlet Knights have a O’Neill heavily recruited Mcstrong local flavor, not only beClelland from her youth soccer cause their standout netminder, days. By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Photo courtesy of Rutgers Athletic Communications, right photo courtesy of Cos Lymperopoulous

Kearny native Meagan McClelland is one of the finest keepers in the nation. The Rutgers senior made a save in goal, then scored a goal in the penalty kick portion of last week’s game against Arkansas that put the Scarlet Knights in the Final Four College Cup. RIGHT: Kearny native Mike O’Neill is the head coach of the Rutgers women’s soccer team, headed to the College Cup this weekend in Santa Clara, California.

“I knew Meagan had talent, but that’s not the only reason why we recruited her,” O’Neill said. “Meagan puts the work in. She works extremely hard and she prepares for big moments like she had last week. She’s really a talented keeper. I think it

makes the team more confident because they know she’s there. Her leadership is also a help. She gives us a chance to win every game.” McClelland, a senior majoring in supply chain management, had a strong inkling that

the Scarlet Knights were bound for glory this season. “In the beginning of the season and in our scrimmages, I could see that we had an opportunity this year of going to the Final Four,” McClelland said. “I think after the summer, I was a little up and down, but after the season started, I started to play well again. I think the team also trains very well and prepares very well. A huge portion of the game is how you prepare mentally. I think we were ready for a Final Four run.” But the Scarlet Knights needed a little bit of Lady Luck to be on their side, winning by penalty kicks in the last two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, defeating TCU in PKs, followed by the extra session shootout with Arkansas that the Scarlet Knights managed to withstand, thanks to the prow See RUTGERS, Page 14

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Wednesday, December 1, 2021

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Obituaries DELILAH TALBOT

Delilah Talbot, 42, of Hackensack, formerly Kearny, died Nov. 26 at Hackensack Hospital, following a 10 year battle with metastatic breast cancer surrounded by her family. She was our 5-star general, for she fought endlessly. She’s now our angel in heaven. She is survived by her son

VIEW

Continued from Page 13

Deadline for Obituaries is Monday by 10AM

new uniforms. We were happy to get new equipment.

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

Janet Barber (nee Gray) of High Bridge, formerly of Kearny, died Nov. 22, 2021. She was 78. Janet worked at Borgos, Borgos and Hanlon in Kearny for many years. She was the wife of the late Archie Barber and mother of Cindy Anderson (her husband David). She is also survived by her grandchild Riley.

Division. He was an adult server and parishioner of St. Joseph’s George R. Halpin, a longtime Church and he held a lifetime resident of Oradell, died peacemembership in the Knights of fully surrounded by his family Columbus. on Nov. 12, 2021, at the age of 79. He had an FCC ham radio liHe worked as a property cense and was a member in the manager in NYC for over 40 Amateur Radio Club in Ramsey. years before retiring to help take Predeceased by his parents care of his younger grandchilJoseph and Margaret and his dren. brother Harry Halpin, George is A longtime member of survived by his beloved wife of Copestone-Ophir Masonic over 52 years, Bernice. Devoted lodge in Kearny and a member father of John Halpin (Alyson), of the Ramsey OEM, George Scott Halpin (Kristin), Susan served both his country and Miller (Erik), and Allison Halcommunity as a member of the pin. Dear twin of Joseph Halpin N.J. National Guard 50th Armor and brother Robert Halpin.

Cherished grandfather of 10 grandsons: Braedon, Patrick, Sean, Keagen, Colin, Trentin, Jake, Ben, Colten and Nate. He will be missed by all who had the great pleasure of knowing him. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at St. Joseph’s Church, Oradell. Interment was in Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, t2t.org, in memory of his deceased brother, firefighter Harry Halpin.

We’re hoping that a game like this helps promote the sport a little more. We had full teams across the board, with 20 kids on the pee wees, juniors and seniors. It was good to see.” After the game, the parents

of the kids from both teams got together for a tailgate party. “We were able to bring the families together for some family and football bonding,” Leiner said.

involved.” And it promoted the sport of football, which has taken a major hit since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Football is coming around again.

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RUTGERS

Continued from Page 12 ess of McClelland. “When you get to this level, I think it’s the whole body of work that has allowed us to have a historic year,” O’Neill said. “This team had a drive that they always wanted to get better and wanted to win. It’s not just one player. It’s 28 strong (the number on the Rutgers’ roster). We always had that culture and we continue to have that. It’s a full team approach that we take every day.” And when it comes to his netminder, O’Neill is a little tongue-tied. “I can’t even find the words of how very proud I am of her,” O’Neill said. “When a game starts and see and hear her name being called and her hometown, it really gives me goosebumps.” The Scarlet Knights

won the recent Big 10 regular season title on their way to the Final Four. Now, it’s the challenge that comes with facing the No. 1 seed in the tournament. “It’s definitely exciting facing an ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) team,” McClelland said. “They’re the Number One team overall for a reason, but I’m excited to get after it.” McClelland is proud to be representing Kearny at the national level. “We’re putting ‘Soccertown, USA’ all over the map,” McClelland said. “We’ll be out there ready to give it my all.” McClelland isn’t sure whether she will return to Rutgers for the year of eligibility lost to COVID. She may put her name in the National Women’s Soccer League draft to see where she might end up. She more than likely will be drafted. “I want to be involved

in sports somehow,” McClelland said. “Having a fifth year would be nice, but I will talk about what I should do. Right now, I’m just really excited to have the opportunity to play for the College Cup. It was one of our goals and we’re fighting to the end.” O’Neill has a national championship in his sights. “If you’re going to do it, then you want to do it right,” O’Neill said. “We’ve taken it one game at a time and done it right. When you get to the College Cup Final Four, as one of the top four teams in the country, then anything can happen. But we’re going to win it. That’s how we’ll approach it. We have known this group is special. We set goals from the beginning and we’re two wins away.” And two wins away from “Soccertown, USA” being represented in a national championship.

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Historical Society sponsors ‘Wreaths’ program

The Belleville Historical Society sponsors Wreaths Across America Day Saturday, Dec. 18. The society will join sponsors at 2,500 other cemeteries across America to remember and place wreaths at the graves of U.S. veterans. Here, wreaths will be set on the graves of the nearly 100 veterans buried at St. Peter’s Cemetery that day at noon, 155. The church event will be followed by a visit to Glendale Cemetery to set wreaths at the graves of young men from Belleville and Nutley killed in action. The society will visit and set wreaths at more than a dozen cemeteries in North Jersey where veterans from Belleville who were killed in action are interred. Wreath sponsorship is $15. For more information, contact Michael Perrone at (973) 780-7852, send an email to bellevillehistory@gmail.com.

ROOSEVELT HONORS Antonio Moyano, principal of Roosevelt School in Kearny, announces the following students who have attained Principal’s Honors or Honors for the first marking period of the 2021-2022 school year: Principal’s Honors Grade 6 – Khalil Abad, Gabriel Bernardes, Daniel Bystrowski, Cael Carrera, Steven Cedeno, Anthony Chavez, Gabriella Desa, Emily Dos Santos, Delilah Ferreira, Aleena Fragoso, Jasmin Galarza Vele, Arianna Garcia, Joseph Iorio, Kevin Kinsley, Peter Kintos, Casey Logue, James Mara, Xaydii Mendoza, Shilah Olsen, Juliet Olson, Dania Ortiz, Matthew Peldunas, Ashley Quizhpi Pichizaca, Lizzie Reyes, Galia Santander, Jacob Tryak and Jake Weber. Grade 5 – Lilia Bonavota, Abigail Buchanan, Kaelyn Carlen, Gianna Covello, Layla Hernandez, Sophia Lima, Anna Matos, Samantha Ribeiro, Erin Richards, Emily Rodriguez, Jayden Santos, Eva Shah, Valentina Ugarte and Matthew Whitehead. Grade 4 - Marwa Alami, Daniela Alban Galarza, Anthony

Alcantara, Amayah Febo, Hannah Paris and Ava Piccillo. Honors Grade 6 - Katherynne Chavez Aguinaga, Oliver Dabrowski, Nathaniel Jimenez, Tyler Olechowski, Ariella Saenz DaSilva, Michael Szymanski and Alejandro and Torres Silva. Grade 5 - Yasser Abad, Daniel Balboa, Leah Carranza, Parker Carvalho, Lexi Duarte, Parker Carvalho, Lexi Duarte, Andrew Espinoza Gonzaga, William Franchino, Angel Garica - Hidalgo, Aralyn Hernanrdez, Samantha Kingalahua, Luca Martinez, Adrian Rodriguez, Lucas Serodio, Paulo Ovidius Stival Veneziano Neto and Julia Tryak. Grade 4 – Gavin Araujo, Jack Barroqueiro, Bryan Costa, Logan Czeizinger, Matteo Gonzalez, Zoe Habrahmson, Sandra Immerso, Ava Irizarry, Nebiha Junaid, Brendan Mara, Ava Marinho, Lilly McSweeney, Caroline Olson, Nicholas Peldunas, Ansel Pena, Emma Peso, Jason Pina, Mason Ramdass, Anabelle Rodriguez, Lukas Rojas, Mason Santos and Stein Thelumsa.

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TODAY’S LOAN RATES Payment Example: $9.89 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 10-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 3.500% will result in 120 payments of $988.86 on owner occupied 5+ multi-family. Payment Example: $7.15 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 3.50% will result in 180 payments of $714.88 on owner occupied 5+ multi-family. Payment Example: $10.01 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 10-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 3.750% will result in 120 payments of $1,000.61 on investment 5+ multi-family. Payment Example: $7.27 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 3.750% will result in 180 payments of $727.22 on investment 5+ multi-family. Actual monthly payment may be higher because example does not include applicable property taxes, fees, insurance premiums or other related costs. Annual percentage rate (APR) based on $100,000.00 loan with a 10-year & 15-year amortization term. Financing on properties located in Essex, Union, and Hudson Counties. Minimum finance charge of $955.00. New loans only. Rates and annual percentage rates are based on 75% loan to value with 25% equity or 25% down payment. Rates and annual percentages are effective as of the publication date of this ad and are subject to change. Please speak with our Mortgage Department for additional terms and conditions that may apply. Subject to credit approval. Other rates and programs are available.

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Wednesday, December 1, 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 driver’s license a must Call 973-728-0842 23W08

Driver/cleaning person needed. part time Monday-Friday various hours. Interviews Call for interview (201)705-2442 29W03

WANTED Driver/Warehouse, mature individual for Foodservice CO. must posses good driving record. Salary plus Bonus Call 973-754-9775 or email

Bookkeeping position available in small office in Nutley part time, flexible hours, must be experienced in doing Financial reports and financial presentation, (balance sheets, budgets, income reports, etc.). Must have knowledge of MS Word, MS Excel, Quickbooks and/ or TOPS One. If interested, contact Julie at 973-284-0900 29W03

farmfreshdistributioncorp @gmail.com

Medical Transportation company in Lyndhurst is seeking an MAV certified wheelchair van driver. Excellent pay, flexible hours. Call 800 999-2288

29W03

Hiring 2 positions Manufacturing Company near Mill St, Belleville looking for an order picker and an order packer. $14/hr start w/ yearly raises call 973-484-7602 for phone interview. Must understand English. 973-484-7602 for phone interview. Must understand English. 28W03

Help wanted for Busy Deli Full Time- Part Time Days and Evenings Apply in Person D&F Deli 396 Davis Ave, Kearny 25W06

SERVICES NEEDED Housekeeping & some care giving. Must speak Portuguese $13/HR 3 to 4 hours a day up to 7 days a week call (201)679-0761 29W03

Fraudsters continue to prey on the weary over Hurricane Ida The Federal Emergency Management Agency — you know it as FEMA — is warning Jersey residents, especially those in The Observer’s readership area, who suffered damage during Hurricane Ida, to be weary of scammers who are still preying on the vulnerable with defrauding schemes that too often look legitimate. The agency says scammers do their best to make homeowners, business owners and the elderly, especially, believe they’re in line for federal assistance for repairs when in reality, they’ll wind up losing even more. As such, federal and state emergency-management officials are urging residents to vigorously watch for and report any suspicious activity. When a disaster strikes, FEMA says, unscrupulous people may pose, at your door, online or elsewhere as official disaster-aid workers looking to help survivors complete their applications. Unfortunately, common post-disaster fraud practices include:

FAKE OFFERS OF STATE OR FEDERAL AID

Note: federal and state workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration personnel never charge survivors for applying for disaster assistance, inspections or help in completing applications.

PHONY PROPERTY INSPECTORS

FEMA inspectors will never ask for your Social Security number. No government disaster assistance official will ever call you to ask for banking account information. If you doubt a FEMA representative is legitimate, hang up and call the FEMA Helpline at (800) 621-3362 or

TTY (800) 462-7585 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. EDT, to report the incident. Additionally, FEMA’s housing inspectors never charge a fee to inspect your property.

PHONY BUILDING CONTRACTORS

A FEMA housing inspector’s job is to verify damage. FEMA does not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs. It recommends hiring a reputable engineer, architect or building official to inspect your home. An unethical contractor may create damage to get work. FEMA says whenever there’s doubt, report suspicious behavior to your local authorities. In hiring a legitimate contractor, always use one whose licensed and local contractor and who has reliable references. Require a written contract from anyone you hire. Be sure to get a written receipt for any payment. And, never pay more than half the cost of the job up front. FEMA says if one estimate sounds too good to be true, especially if it comes well lower than another, it prob-

ably is too good to be true. Many unethical contractors provide low-ball bids that seem attractive, but they’re often uninsured, may never do the work and/or may charge substantial cancelation fees. In dealing with contractors, ask if they have done this type of repair work before. Also ask if they will purchase necessary permits, and if the work will be inspected. Be sure the contract spells out who pays for required permits. If a contractor they can do the work without permits, chances are you’re dealing with a scammer or an illegitimate business. Try to get three separate bids for a job. Don’t be pressured into making a quick decision. Insist on receiving a written estimate or contract. And don’t sign anything you don’t understand and never sign contracts that have blank spaces. Keep records by always pay for repair work by check or credit card and avoid double charges. Unless absolutely necessary, never pay with cash.

FAKE CHARITIES

FEMA also warns to

be aware of fraudulent charities. Watch out for irreputable and phony organizations. Criminals exploit survivors by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions. They often look like they’re coming from legitimate sources and may even contain known charity logos. Scour the emails — if they come from an address that looks like it doesn’t include the charity’s name, it’s a fraud. The Better Business Bureau, FEMA says, has a list of reputable charities that have been approved by the Wise Giving Alliance at www.Give.Org. For more information about avoiding charitable giving scams, www.go.usa. gov/xM5Rn. Report scams, fraud and identity-theft contact by calling FEMA’s toll-free Disaster Fraud Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or call your town’s police. For the latest information on Ida, visit www.fema. gov/disaster/4614. Follow FEMA Region 2 on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Observer Classifieds

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

N.NEWARK

KEARNY

E.NEWARK 3rd floor. 3 BR. LR. Kitchen.Bath. $1500 + 1 Months security. Available January 1st Call (201)988-7536 30W03

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CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

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KEARNY 2 bedroom $1,290 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No pets/Smoking. Leave a detailed message (973) 951-7385

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

erickconstructionnj.com Free estimates - Fully insured

30W03

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Exterminating Fast Service • Roaches • Ants • Bed Bugs • Fleas Call 973-932-2092 Licensed and Insured 25W06

ROOFING/SIDING

B&A ROOFING

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

Licensed & Insured

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC.

and windows FREE ESTIMATES (201)719-3074 29W06

HARRISON 2nd floor, KEARNY 2 BR, LR, DR, Modern 1BR 3 room Apt in Kitchen. $1,800/month. great location. $1400 + 1 month 1 month security. 1 off security. street parking space inUtilities Seperate. cluded Walking distance Parking available. No Pets. to PATH. No pets. No Available Dec 15th. smoking. Avl. Now (973) Credit Check. Single or couple prferred. 420-0139 29W03 Call between 10 am and 7 pm. (201)997-2341 29W03

HARRISON 3rd floor 4 bedrooms, LR, Kitchen and bathroom. $1,700/ mth plus 1 mth security. Utilities Seperate. Background check. (973)4852982 30W03

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 A 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

KEARNY 2nd fl. 3 BR’s, 2 bath, Large LR, Kitchen, Central A/C, Washer/ Dryer room. No pets. No smoking. 2,200/month. 1 1/2 months security. Avl. Dec 1st. (718) 913-6118. Belgrove Dr Kearny NJ 07032 29W03

28W03

OFFICE/RETAIL FOR RENT

KEARNY 1st fl. 3 BR’s, DR, EIK, Bathroom.3 closets + 1 Pantry closet. $2100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities included. no pets/ smoking. Avl. January 1st (551)209-6954 30W03

KEARNY 2 BR. LR.EIK. $1,800 + 1 Months security. Utilities separate. No pets/smoking. 1 parking spot. Available January 1st Text only 917-3620212 30W03

KEARNY 3rd fl. 2 BR’s, LR, EIK. $1,500 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets Avl. Now. (201) 424-7995

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

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC •Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991 27W04

RUBBISH REMOVAL

Roofing & Siding Free Estimates 201-780-7419

N.ARLINGTON N.ARLINGTON Newly renovated. 2 BR. LR. EIK. 1 Bath. $1400 + 1.5 months security. Plus utilities. No Pets/Smoking. Close to Transportation. 1 Parking space. Call between 9am - 9pm (201)966-8095

30W03

CAR FOR SALE 2018 Black Dodge Grand Caravan GT 32,700 miIes, Fits 7 passengers, loaded with remote start $23.500 or best offer (973)202-1292

PAINTING & DECORATING

HARRISON Room for rent Available ImmediKevin’s Affordable ately $650/mth plus 1.5 Painting mth security deposit. Call * Plastering * Sheetrockfor viewing and leave ing * Carpentry and message (570)656-5850 more. Our service and 29W03 prices will be the best. Our customers come first. Very neat and clean. Don’t miss out! Senior Discount. Fully insured N.NEWARK Room for (201) 565-6393 rent, Forest Hill section. 27W06 $500/month. Shared Bath, No Kitchen. Utilities included. 1 month secu- BALDWIN GENERAL rity. No smoking (973) CONSTRUCTION L.L.C. 752-6877 29W03 Interior Painting

HARRISON 1 attic room for rent. $500 + 1 month security, everything included cable & internet. (973) 525- 3860 30W03

Services (201) 456-0112 info@baldwingc.com Ask for Louie Free Estimates Fully Insured Lic#13VH11781700 29W03

A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating Kitchen and bath remodeling. Carpentry. Hot Water Heaters. Fully Ins. Lic# 165

(201)637-1775 26W06

29W03

ROOM FOR RENT

PLUMBING & HEATING

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

(201) 998-1262

50W52

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

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qualitygroupnj.com

@qualitygroupnj Licensed & Insured 13VH11202700 27W06

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KEARNY Great location on Kearny Ave. $1200 + 1 months security. Call for details (201)997-2341 Between 10AM - 7PM

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KEARNY 2nd floor, 2 BR, LR, EIK, $1300 + 1 month security, No pets, smoke free. Available Now (201)232-5329 30W03

30W03

BELLEVILLE Commercial investment opportunity in developing area. 9 apartments, 2 stores, principals only. Call (201)628-4071

25W06

28W03

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

BUILDING FOR SALE

LACA CORP

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

BELLEVILLE

KEARNY 3rd fl. 2 BR’s, LR, EIK. $1,960 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Avl. DecemBELLEVILLE 2ND Fl, separate Newly renovated. 2 BR ber 1st. (201) 424-7995 N.ARLINGTON Apt. HT/HW Included. 28W03 1 months security. No Pets/Smoking. AVL.Now. KEARNY 3rd Floor. 1 Call Maria (973) 759- BR, EIK, $1,375 + 1 1/2 N.ARLINGTON 1st Fl. 1 BR, LR, DR, EIK 7077 29W03 months security. Utilities With yard. Quiet neighbornot included. No pets/ hood. Near Transportation. + Plus utilities. 1 smoking. Avl. Now. Credit $1300 1/2 months security. Check, employment veriNo smoking. One year lease. Credit check. fication and references HARRISON Available Now required (973) 309-5773 (973)838-1662

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

(973)906-8404

paylessroofingservices.com LIC#13VH00418100

27W06

G&R BUILDERS Roofing,

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

FREE ESTIMATES 20% Senior Citizen Discounts

(201) 893-0656 Lic. #13VH02536200 27W06

CLEANING SERVICES

Pet Direct ry

CHAMPION CLEANING I use my own supplies. Good rates and great references! Call Susan at (973)743-2039 28W03

Bone Appétit Barkery PET SALON & BAKERY Certified Professional Dog & Cat Grooming

HALL FOR RENT

169 Midland Ave. • Kearny, NJ • (201) 955-2306 boneappetite@verizon.net

TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CALL 201-991-1600. 27W06

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Wednesday, December 1, 2021

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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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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201.206.4845 • 908.387.8150

Lyndhurst PD mourns unexpected death of parking enforcement Ofc. Betty Sliwoski By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

he Lyndhurst Police Department is mourning the death of a beloved parking enforcement officer who remained on the job to the day she lost her life. Elizabeth “Betty” Sliwoski died Nov. 17, 2021. The 84-year-old Sliwoski was actively serving as a parking enforcement officer in the Lyndhurst traffic division, a duty she performed for the last 37 years. She was also a matron duty officer during her tenure. Betty also served in excess of 20 years as a volunteer EMT with the Lyndhurst Police Emergency Squad. She was also an avid animal lover “Betty had a wonderful personality and was a joy to be around,” Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri, of the Lyndhurst PD, said of his friend. “She was quick-witted with a great sense of humor. She was always full of energy, which was evident by the fact that she was on-duty earlier the day of her passing. She showed up for work as usual and had been as lively as ever. She certainly lived her life to the end.” Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso was also moved by Sliwoski’s death. “It was with great sadness

SLIWOSKI that I learned of the passing of Betty Sliwoski,” Giangeruso said. “Betty was an integral part of our public-safety services for nearly four decades and she will be missed dearly. Her dedication and commitment to our township will never be forgotten.” Betty was preceded in death by her husband, John E. Sliwoski Jr. and son Robert Sliwoski and is survived by her children, Linda, Susan, Karen and Thomas and grandchildren, Suzanne, Rutger, Joey, Emily, Michael, Laura, Stephen and Emma.

In Memoriam

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

ECPO: Newark cop left scene of fatal Parkway crash By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Newark Police Officer who lives in Bloomfield has been charged with reckless vehicular homicide, desecrating human remains and related charges for hitting a pedestrian on the Garden State Parkway, leaving the scene, then coming back and putting the victim in his car and then later returning to the scene with the victim’s dead body, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stevens II said. The story has garnered the attention of national and international media. Louis Santiago, 25, of Bloomfield, a Newark cop, and and Albert Guzman, 25, of Newark, the passenger in the car, were both taken into custody. Guzman faces charges of conspiracy to desecrate human remains, hindering apprehension and conspiracy to hinder apprehension and tamper with physical evidence. Annette Santiago, 53, of Bloomfield, the mother of Louis Santiago, was charged with the same offenses as Guzman. A preliminary investiga-

THANKS

Continued from Page 3 HARRISON FEST COMMITTEE Back on this side of the Passaic River, the Harrison Fest Committee, led by former Councilman Anselmo Millan, delivered turkeys and all the trimmings to close to 250 Harrison families in need on Saturday, Nov. 20, volunteer and Harrison Attorney John Pinho tells The Observer. This continues a tradition Millan began when he was in office. “On behalf of the Harrison Fest committee, a non-profit corporation, I would like to thank the sponsors of the 2021 Harrison Fest Turkey Drive,” Millan said. “This year, the committee, with the help of these sponsors,

SANTIAGO tion, Stevens says, indicates on Nov. 1, 2021, around 3 a.m., a 2005 Honda Accord driven by Santiago, who was off duty at the time, was traveling northbound on the Garden State Parkway, near exit 151. Santiago reportedly failed to maintain his lane and traveled onto the right shoulder of the Garden State Parkway, striking Damian Z. Dymka, a 29-year-old nurse from Garfield. It was not immediately clear why Dymka was walking on the Parkway. It is alleged that after striking the victim, neither Santiago nor Guzman called 911 or rendered aid but returned to the scene multiple times before Santiago loaded the victim into the Honda and has put together over 200 turkeys with a beverage and side dishes to distribute to families so they could have a wonderful Thanksgiving meal. Please thank the companies and individuals who volunteered to make this year’s Thanksgiving Dinner Drive possible. If you are a patron of one of the businesses, please let them know that you appreciate their thoughtfulness and kindness in making over 200 families’ Thanksgivings brighter.” A list of the participating businesses may be found at www.harrisonfest.org. Volunteer individuals include the aforementioned Pinho and Millan and Monica Miguens, the Monterrosa-Minchola family, Alicia Monterrosa, Rosa Rita Arnez, Enriquez Alvarez, Savannah Monterrosa and Tina Carou.

removed him from the scene. Santiago then took the body to his home in Bloomfield where he, his mother and Guzman allegedly discussed what to do with the body. Eventually, Santiago went back to the scene with the body, the ECPO says. Santiago’s father, who is a lieutenant in the Newark Police Department, called 911 and reported his son was in an accident. When the New Jersey State Police arrived, the victim was dead in the back seat of the car. In addition to vehicular homicide, Santiago was charged with leaving the scene of crash resulting in death, endangering an injured victim, desecrating/moving human remains, hindering one’s own

DAMIAN Z. DYMKA apprehension, conspiracy to hinder prosecution, tampering with physical evidence, obstructing the administration of law, and two counts of official misconduct. All three defendants have been arrested, charged and

released with conditions. It is not immediately clear whether Santiago has been suspended — and if he has, whether he is still being paid during the investigation.

BOROUGH OF NORTH ARLINGTON ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT TAKE NOTICE that on the 7th day of December, 2021, at 7:00 P.M. at 214 Ridge Road North Arlington, N.J., a hearing will be held before the Borough of North Arlington, Zoning Board of Adjustment on the appeal or application of the undersigned for a variance or other relief as to permit extension of living room to attached original garage on the premises located at 164 Hendel Ave. and designated as block 19 lot 2 on the Borough of North Arlington Tax Map. MAPS AND DOCUMENTS FOR WHICH APPROVAL IS S OUGHT IN THIS APPLICATION ARE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AT THE OFFICE OF THE CONSTRUCTION OFFICIAL, MUNICIPAL BUILDING, WEEKDAYS BETWEEN 9:00 A.M. AND 4:00 P.M. Any interested party may appear at said hearing and participate therein in accordance with the rules of the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

Carol Dorazio

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

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