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Wednesday, 9 March 2022

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Vol. CXXXIV, No. 44 Don’t forget to move your clocks ahead on Sunday at 2 a.m.

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

Homeland Security: Kearny schoolteacher arrested on child pornography charges By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

Morris County man who is a teacher in the Kearny school district was charged Friday, March 4, 2022, with distributing videos and images of child sexual abuse, United States Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced. Anselmo Girimonte, 51, of Wharton, is charged by complaint with one count of distribution of child pornography. He appeared by video conference March 4 before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III and was detained. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

From Dec. 27, 2021, through Jan. 17, 2022, Girimonte is alleged to have distributed material containing images and video files of child sexual abuse, via a publicly available online peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing network of linked computers. Users must download the P2P program, which is widely available for free on the Internet. The program allows users to place files into a designated “shared” folder on a hard drive, from which other P2P program users may then download those files directly to “shared” folders of their own computers. Users may then browse, search, select and directly download such files.

7-hour ordeal in Kearny ends peacefully, King says By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com

Here’s a summary of what happened Saturday, March 5, in an incident at Webster and Passaic avenues in Kearny. According to Kearny Police Chief George King, at 8:45 a.m., Saturday, March 5, Kearny police officers were requested to check the welfare of a man inside a home near Webster and Passaic avenues. Officers and a mental health screener from Jersey City Medical Center’s Mobile Crisis Unit attempted to contact the man, but unfortunately, the man barricaded himself within the home and refused help. Information later aggregated

from several sources indicated the man may have been experiencing a mental health crisis and may have displayed a shotgun. With assistance from the Hudson County Regional SWAT Team, Kearny police officers secured a safety perimeter and communicated with the man from outside the home. Just before 3:45 p.m., the man peacefully emerged and was transported by EMS to a local hospital. No criminal charges are anticipated. There were no injuries throughout the course of the long incident. The Kearny Police Department recovered the reported shotgun.

The program typically keeps a log of each download. Law enforcement conducted an undercover online session to access the P2P program and to download nine video files containing child pornography from an IP address assigned to an internet service provider account associated with Girimonte’s residence. These files reportedly included multiple visual depictions of pre-pubescent children being sexually abused by adults. The count of distribution of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison

and a fine of $250,000. Sellinger credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Molina, with the investigation leading to the charges. According to his own social media, Girimonte has been an Italian teacher in the Kearny school district since 2006. Patricia Blood, Kearny’s superintendent of schools, could not comment on the case; however, she did note the teacher is on “administrative suspension,” pending the outcome of the case.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns to Nutley

Photo by Teddy Jao Lopez

After a one-year hiatus, Nutley’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade returned Saturday, March 5, 2022. Seen here at the parade is the St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band marching along and playing. They’ll do so again this weekend when the West Hudson St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns for the first time since 2019.

see special section on page 7

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Kearny Recreation baseball & softball registrations underway until March 18

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

egistration is underway for Kearny Recreation baseball. Kearny Little League tryouts are open to children 9 through 12. Children must turn 9 before Aug. 31, 2022 or turn 13 after Aug. 31, 2022. Birth certificates and proof of Kearny residency must be submitted at registration. In-person registration is ongoing through Friday, March 18, at the Recreation Department, 402 Kearny Ave., between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., but not between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. Online registration may be done at any time at www.register. communitypass.net/ townofkearny. The fee is $35. Please also note, the TeeBall League is now for 5- and 6-year-olds and the Minor League is for 7- and 8-year-olds. Aug. 31, 2022 is everyone’s cutoff date, and no exceptions will be made. So, for example, if a

child is currently 6 but his birthday is before Aug. 31, he is considered 7 or if their birthday is after Aug. 31, he is considered 6. In addition, please be advised because of the large enrollment of children, cannot not be accepted for your child to be placed on a certain team or with any coach or child. Please do not register your child if he or she cannot

fulfill the commitment to attend practices and games as their absences may result in the team’s cancelation of practice or forfeiting games, which is not fair to the other players. For more information, please call Kearny Recreation at (201) 955-7983. Registration is also underway for Kearny Recreation softball for children in kindergarten

through eighth-grade. Parents may register children online, at any time, at www.register. communitypass.net/ townofkearny or in person at the Recreation Department, 402 Kearny Ave., weekdays from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., through March 18. The fee is $35. Birth certificates and proof of residency are required at registration. The kindergarten to

second-grade division is strictly an instructional program, where girls will learn the fundamentals of the game. Please do not register your child if he/she cannot fulfill the commitment to attend practices and games as their absences may result in the team forfeiting, which is not fair to the other players. During the course of the softball program, all-star tryouts may take place. All girls selected to an all-star team will be subject to an additional fee of $35 to help cover the league costs. Please be advised because of large enrollment, requests will not be accepted for a child to be placed on a certain team or with a certain child. All registrations after March 18, 2022 will be placed on a waiting list and children will only be placed on a team if roster spots open.

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In unusual move, Belleville PBA endorses Melham’s re-election bid By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

n a rare and stunning move, the local police union is making an endorsement for mayor of Belleville. The local PBA is throwing its support behind incumbent Mayor Michael Melham’s reelection bid. The endorsement, posted to the Belleville PBA’s official social media channels read: “Belleville PBA Local No. 28 is proud to announce our support for incumbent Mayor Michael Melham in his re-election campaign for Mayor of the Township of Belleville. Mayor Melham has time and time again shown his support for law enforcement and first responders through the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the sweeping antipolice movement. He has shown his support by standing with Local No. 28 and our community.” Melham is running for re-election on Tuesday, May 10 with his slate of candidates, Deputy Mayor Naomy DePeña and Councilman-at-large Thomas Graziano. The mayor faces a challenge from Steven J. Rovell, a sitting councilman

whose seat is no up for grabs this year. In receiving the endorsement, Melham said he was “extremely humbled, and absolutely thrilled, to have the support and official endorsement of the men and women of our fine Belleville Police Department.” The endorsement is noteworthy because the Belleville PBA has not endorsed a candidate for local office in decades. “That’s why Local 28 voluntarily stepping out with its official endorsement means so much, especially during these trying times,” Melham said. “This was not solicited; rather, it happened organically with the men and women of Local 28, knowing I’ve had their back, unconditionally for years. In return, they wanted to show me that they have my back in this upcoming May municipal election.” The mayor added: “We seem to live in a world that’s upside down. Good is bad and bad is somehow good. These hard working men and women put their lives on the line, every single day, for us. Sadly, it has recently become all too popular to make them scapegoats, often by elected

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Melham, front row at end, is seen here with many of Belleville’s Finest at a Blue Mass several years ago.

officials. Bureaucrats have been no better, creating legislation after legislation, neutering law enforcement and perpetuating a culture of disrespect. This sickens to me.”

Melham expressed his appreciation to Police Chief Mark Minichini, as well as the PBA, including PBA President John Hood and PBA Vice President/State Delegate Steven Plumer.

“I sincerely thank you for your strong show of support and commitment to my reelection and to our collective vision of creating a Better Belleville for all Belleville residents,” Melham said.

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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.......................................................................Page 18

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

KPD: Man spits at officer following arrest By Capt. Timothy Wagner Kearny Police Department

n Feb. 26 at 12:17 a.m., Officer Derek Hemphill was dispatched to Liberty and Windsor streets on a man walking in and out of traffic. Officer Hemphill found a man at Highland and Quincy avenues matching the clothing description given to the dispatcher, standing still in the middle of the street. When Officer Hemphill approached, the man ran away. He stopped in front of a house on Highland Avenue. The man then reportedly ran in circles twice before

running inside a home. Eventually, Officer Hemphill found the man’s sister who confirmed that he lived there with her. The officers left once confirming the man was home and under supervision. At 12:42 a.m., Officers Paul Duran and Angel Martinez were dispatched back to the same house because a 911 call was placed from the residence. Officers met Wesley M. Contreras, 25, of Kearny, the same man who was earlier standing in the street. Contreras denied calling 911, but operators traced the call back to his cellular phone. Contreras, who

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reportedly appeared under the influence, allegedly became aggressive with officers and spit at Officer Hemphill, who had arrived as back-up. Officers arrested Contreras on charges of aggravated assault (bodily fluids at law enforcement), false public alarm and interference with transportation. He was later released on summonses. On Feb. 26 at 10:51 a.m., while at a private home on an unrelated matter, Officers Bryan San Martin, Taylor Latka and Sgt. Pete Gleason were approached by a 30-year-old woman who reported she had been

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assaulted by her 33-year-old roommate. The woman told cops three days earlier she had an argument with her roommate when the roommate accused her of taking his laptop. During the argument, the roommate allegedly drenched her face with pepper spray. Police were not notified at the time of the original incident. After further investigation, officers arrested the roommate at 1 p.m. the same day. They seized a cannister of Sabre brand pepper spray from his pocket incident to arrest. The man was charged via summons with aggravated assault and weapon offenses. He was later released. On Feb. 28 at 9:06 p.m., Officers Anthony Oliveira and Danny Maganinho met a woman who walked in to police headquarters to report a domestic assault. The woman reported earlier, she had a dispute with her child’s father about their child’s haircut. The argument escalated when the father refused to allow the victim to leave the apartment by blocking the doorway several times and physically restraining her. At one point, the man allegedly choked the victim. A family member intervened, allowing the victim to escape and walk to the police station. Officers later went to the apartment where they arrested the aggressor on charges of aggravated assault and false imprisonment. The defendant was later transferred to the county jail in South Kearny. On March 1 at 3:59 a.m., Officers Josh Lopez and David Vasquez were dispatched to an apartment building on Woodland Avenue, where a tenant reported she had been hearing voices and laughing above her ceiling for the last two days. The tenant lives on the top floor of the apartment building. Officers went onto the roof and found an attic crawl space door had been broken open. Inside, Jose Torres, 26, homeless, was lying on a support beam above the drop

ceiling of the complainant’s apartment. When asked to leave, Torres allegedly broke through the drop ceiling with his foot. Officers arrested Torres for criminal trespass and criminal mischief. At the police station, he was also charged with littering for allegedly throwing newspaper clippings on the police station floor. Torres was later lodged in the Hudson County Jail. On March 3 at 11:28 a.m., Wawa corporate security contacted KPD about a suspicious diesel fuel purchase that was taking place at their Harrison Avenue store. Security recognized a vehicle was at a Wawa fuel pump that had been used in a prior purchase of diesel using fraudulent credit cards. The driver was using his credit card in a way that tipped off security to a potential fraud threat. Dets. Kyle Plaugic and Jordenson Jean surveilled the suspect vehicle, a white Ford pickup truck with a temporary New Jersey tag that was not on file with the Motor Vehicle Commission. The detectives documented the Ford’s driver spent about an hour at a fuel pump purchasing 306 gallons of diesel fuel worth $1,375 with allegedly fraudulent credit cards. Assisted by Officer Mat Lopez, the detectives pulled over the Ford when it left Wawa. Seized from the truck were 55 credit/ debit cards, 91 $100-bills and 118 $50 bills. The currency totaled $15,000. Detectives arrested the Ford’s driver, Jatson, Alvarez (a/k/a Jatson Moreno), 27, of Elizabeth, and its passenger, Antonia Hoyos, 25, of Elizabeth. Alvarez was charged with trafficking in personal identifying information of another, credit card theft, fraudulent use of credit cards and conspiracy. Hoyos was charged with conspiracy and fraudulent use of credit cards. Hoyos was later released with summonses. Alvarez, who is on federal probation, was held at the County Jail.

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

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Belleville stands with people of Ukraine By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

he Township of Belleville stands with the people of Ukraine. That’s the message behind a series of more than two dozen paintings that have been hung near the entryway to Town Hall. The stunning works were painted in the Ukraine’s national colors of blue and yellow and carry slogans such as “Defend Democracy,” “No War” and, simply yet pointedly, “Freedom.” Some are even written in Ukranian. They are the work of Belleville artist Athena Zhe, a Ukranian native. Zhe also recently joined Mayor Michael Melham in unfurling a large Ukranian flag from the second story window outside the mayor’s office. “Make no mistake: Belleville stands with Ukraine and against this incursion into a free, democratic country,” Melham said. “These paintings convey the thoughts and words we hold in our hearts at this

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Belleville artist Athena Zhe, a native of Ukraine, looks at artwork she produced to be displayed at Belleville Township Hall that notes solidarity with her homeland. Mayor Michael Melham surveys the art with Zhe last week.

time: hope, resistance, freedom, love, peace.” Zhe has become an integral part

of the community over the past few years, an artist-in-residence of sorts, who has worked with everyone

from the Township’s Green Team to Belleville High School students on various murals around town. Thousands of residents have marveled at the costumes she designed and created at events such as the Belleville Winter Fest and the Three Kings Day Celebration. It’s hard to miss perhaps her most vibrant and vital work — the sprawling Cherry Blossom Art Mural that pays homage to Belleville’s title as “The Cherry Blossom Capital of America.” The mural covers a concrete wall along the Passaic River and greets visitors with long, twisting branches covered in life-like blossoms. It is proudly emblazoned with the words, “Welcome to Belleville.” “Belleville has become my home, but Ukraine will always be my homeland,” Zhe said. “Like many others, I have watched Russia’s invasion of my homeland on the news and my heart is heavy. The support shown here in Belleville and beyond is very touching and I appreciate everyone’s prayers.”

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Opinion & Viewpoints

Rose: Platkin has no experience & EDITORIAL should have no chance to serve as AG Encouraging both LETTER TO chambers of Congress THE EDITOR to get time bill passed

ome Sunday, we get to move our clocks ahead an hour at 2 a.m., forwarding immediately to 3 a.m. It’s the return to Daylight Saving Time and daily, the sun is out later and later through June 21. As we have almost every year for the last decade+, we again say we hope, beyond hopes, DST is kept and the United States of America does away with this silly practice once and for all. While every state has the ability to do away with clock changes, there are bills in both chambers of the United States Congress — each sponsored by Florida Republicans — to do away, completely, with Standard Time and, therefore, ensure there is more daylight later on each day instead of early on. While there is very little bipartisan unity to be found in Washington, D.C., ever, these days, it is our sincere hope our senators and those who represent us in the House will do all they can to get these bills to the floor — and to get them to President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s desk for a signature into law. It’s time to bid adieu to 4:30 p.m. sunsets in December. It’s time to welcome more afternoon daylight, which is especially critical in the winter months when Seasonal Affective Disorder takes hold on so many Americans. The time has come to say “goodbye” to early nights, more darkness and say “yes” to time with an hour more daylight in the latter part of each day. Let’s get this done sooner than later. Sen. Robert Menendez, Sen. Cory Booker, Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., Rep. Albio Sires, we’re looking to you to lead here. So, please — lead and support the time-change bills.

To the Editor: Matt Platkin, who served as Gov. Philip D. Murphy’s chief counsel, although not having any law enforcement experience, was named by the governor to be the Attorney General for the state of New Jersey. As chief counsel, he was very successful in using the full powers of our Democraticcontrolled state to minimize the Murphy Administration’s scandals. When female members of the governor’s administration wanted to speak out about

abuses they suffered, Platkin threatened them with their non disclosure agreements. When Katie Brennan asked for help from Platkin and other high-ranking administration officials with her accusation she had been raped by another administration employee, their only answer according to Brennan was to offer her a few thousand dollars to go away. When she wouldn’t, the Hudson County Prosecutor

refused to bring charges. Except for the million dollars of taxpayer money paid to Brennan, Platkin did an excellent job. Getting the governor out of the country when the Wall Street Journal broke the story, and not having the Select Committee call the governor as a witness was a stroke of genius. I’m sure most of us would have wanted an Attorney General with law enforcement experience who would apply justice equally. What we got was a fixer . Armand Rose North Arlington

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he Observer welcomes and encourages Letters to the Editor from the public on topics relevant to local, national and/or global issues. We ask letters be kept to 250 words of fewer, though longer letters will be considered for Op-Eds. Send letters by email to editorial@theobserver.com. Letters that contain anything libelous will not be accepted for publication. Though rare, The Observer reserves the right to reject letters for any reason. Every letter must contain the writer’s full, legal name and home town.

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Youth Center coming to Coptic Church By Ron Leir For The Observer

ll systems are go for a major renovation project at St. Mary and St. Mercurius Coptic Orthodox Church on Academy Street in Belleville. In December 2021, the township Planning Board granted site plan approval, reverse subdivision and bulk variance relief that will allow the church to build a new Coptic Youth Center with a two-level parking garage and to reconfigure existing onsite parking fronting Rutgers Court. Contributed photo advertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 But the new Youth Center An artist’s rendering of the soon-to-be upgraded building at St. Mercurius Coptic Orthodox r: Client: won’t be topped off, as Church on Academy Street in Belleville. originally conceived, by a the new, 64,000-squaregarage, supplemented by its 20th anniversary last monolithic dome – a design foot, four-story structure, additional on-site surface month, continues to operate feature originally planned the church plans to tear parking, will provide a total out of a former synagogue for the new facility in 2018, down the five residential of 105 spaces which, he and runs all of its programs, ultimately scrapped in favor properties it owns just west added, should be sufficient to including youth services, of a more conventional of the church. These houses accommodate members and from that building. Aside square shape. Instead, it are where church visitors so that should ease from a sanctuary area of dvertising: Here is the updated template with athe new photohas of Jarlynn Hyde: will now be topped with a currently installed temporary neighbors’ concerns about adequate size, church leaders flat roof and a small dome classrooms to accommodate street congestion and finding have had to be creative in to cover just the youth some of their services. curbside parking. adapting cramped quarters sanctuary. Church representative Access to and from the for multiple uses such as To clear the way for Michael Tadros said the garage will be by way of youth classes, pastoral

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two ramps off Academy Street and each ramp will accommodate two-way traffic flow, he said. The church, which marked

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it will provide space sufficient to accommodate the spiritual, secular and recreational needs of the church’s 400 youth members; and it will allow the church to re-shape some of the interior infrastructure at its existing building, such as enlarging clerical offices for easier engagement with visiting congregants. Among other things, the expansive youth center will be equipped with 14 classrooms which will handle “pre-K to college age,” Tadros said, “primarily for religious instruction and Bible study but also for prep courses for Advanced Placement and SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) tests.” Classrooms will be equipped with state-ofthe-art technology like Smartboards and laptops. And, for those who are just moving into the community from Egypt, in college, or new graduates looking to break into the job market, the center will offer workshops in resume-writing skills. Space is also reserved for a study hall where kids can do homework or special projects. The youth center will also feature an interior full-size basketball court that can double as an auditorium. This will be a vast improvement over the current makeshift asphalt “court” with a single hoop competing for space with parkers in the church’s outdoor lot.

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Sports & Recreation

SPORTSVIEW with Jim Hague Observer Sports Writer OGSMAR@AOL.COM

Kearny/NA co-op wins McMullen Cup title In just the third year of varsity hockey, the Kearny/ North Arlington/Secaucus co-operative team incredibly captured a championship. The team won the McMullen Cup title of the Northern New Jersey Interscholastic Hockey League by recently defeating Bayonne, 5-4, in thrilling fashion, winning by scoring a short-handed goal with 1:28 remaining in regulation by team leading scorer Matt Golon. It was the fourth time this season that the Kardinals faced Bayonne. “It’s amazing to think we did this in only our third year of a varsity program,” said head coach Tim Firth. “We’ve come a long way since we were just a club team. It really is amazing.” The Kardinals started the McMullen Cup (named after the late owner of the New Jersey Devils John McMullen) tournament with a 4-1 victory over West Orange. Golon had two goals in that game, just two of his team-high 36 goals. Golon, a former Observer Athlete of the Week earlier this season, also had 20 assists in an absolutely great season. The Kardinals also received two goals from Chris Crawford of North Arlington in the win over West Orange. Goalkeeper Jack Logue of Kearny was outstanding in goal. In the championship

game, Crawford was also big with four assists, as did freshman Aiden Stamm of Secaucus, who also had a goal. Kevin Zidiak had two goals and an assist. Winning the championship on the big stage ice of the Codey Arena in South Orange meant the world to the Kardinals. “These kids worked real hard,” Firth said. “These kids have raised awareness that we’re here and we mean business. It’s fantastic. The championship game was very intense and it could have gone either way. I think it was a very emotional moment for our seniors, who have been around to see the progress we’ve made. I’m very grateful to them.” Logue is one of those seniors. He came up big in the title game with 31 saves. Defenseman Sam Francisco of Kearny also graduates, as do forward Pat Waters of Kearny and Steven Paolazzi of North Arlington, as well as female Jackie Narucki, who overcame the gender gap to be a contributing member of the team. Winning the McMullen Cup puts a lot of pressure on the Kardinals come next season. “It definitely means we have our work cut out for us,” Firth said. “We have to be a little bit stronger, faster See VIEW, Page 11

Blind student Cash now has new basketball job at Kearny High By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

KEARNY – Eddie Cash always had a strong love of the game of basketball. “I was living in Manhattan and I was six years old,” Cash said. “I started playing basketball whenever I could. I was automatically liked basketball once I was introduced to it.” The Cash family moved to Union City when he was 12 years old, but his overwhelming devotion to the game never wavered. “I went to Thomas Edison School in Union City and played there,” Cash said. “I played for the St. Michael’s CYO program. I met Baron Davis (a former New York Knick player) and became a big fan. I really wanted to play in the NBA. That was my dream.” The family moved again to Kearny and Cash became a fixture with the Kearny Recreation youth basketball program. “I met Eddie when he was about 12 years old,” said Bill Mullins, the head boys’ basketball coach at Kearny High who also coaches in the Kearny Rec program. “I coached him when he was younger on a travel team I coached. He was a good player. He knew how to play the game. He was a good outside shooter.” When he was 15 years old, Cash started to experience troubles with his eyesight. “I woke up one morning and my eyes were blurry,” Cash said. “I thought it would clear up. But then it started to get worse in my left eye. By the time I got to eighth grade, it transferred to my right eye.” Eddie’s mother, Virginia Cash, showed instant concern. “One day, I went down-

Photo by Jim Hague

Kearny High School junior Eddie Cash is still a part of the athletic program despite losing his eyesight three years ago, acting as the DJ for both the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams.

stairs and he was sitting right in front of the television,” Virginia Cash said. “He said, ‘Mom, I can’t see.’ I was a little panicked. Now I knew it was serious.” After a series of local eye doctor visits, Cash and her husband Keith took Eddie to an opthamologist at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York. “I had to guide him walking at that time,” Virginia Cash said. “He was also losing his hearing and his sight and we didn’t have any answers. I knew something was wrong, but I didn’t understand why this was happening. No one was giving me any information.” Eddie underwent a CAT scan to determine the problem. It was discovered that Eddie had unnatural bone growth around the nerves leading to his eyes and the bone growth crushed the nerves. “They wanted to shave the bone to allow the nerves to grow and breathe,” Virginia Cash explained. “They didn’t

know if it was a permanent thing.” Eventually, the hearing came back, but the eyesight did not. “After I lost my vision, I knew I couldn’t play basketball or video games anymore,” Eddie Cash said. “I was at a loss for words. Whenever I just touched a basketball, it just made me happy. I was very sad at being blind at 15.” Eddie underwent two separate surgeries at Hackensack University Medical Center on each eye, trying to alleviate the pressure caused by the rapid bone growth. “They tried to preserve whatever eyesight was left,” Virginia Cash said. “I can see shadows, certain movements and colors,” Eddie explained. “But only in my right eye. My left eye is totally blind.” Needless to say, it was devastating to a growing teen who just loved to play hoops. He dreamed of becoming a basketball star like his favorite players, the late Kobe Bryant and current Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving. “They were the two players I watched the most,” Eddie Cash said. “When Kyrie was with Cleveland, I just loved watching him, the way he plays and the basketball IQ he has. The way he moves. I wanted to be like him. I was studying him.” A lot of other kids who lose their eyesight tragically at age 15 might have begun to feel sorry for himself and become reserved. Eddie had his moments of depression. He has been assigned to case managers and advisors at Kearny High. Maryanne Moran is part of the Child Study Team who works with Eddie on a regular basis. See CASH, Page 10

10 CASH

Continued from Page 9 “I wanted to see if there was a way we could get Eddie involved with basketball,” Moran said. “He loves basketball so much. He came to me and talked about listening to the sport he loves. He can’t see it, but he can listen it.” So Moran went to Kearny athletic director Vin Almeida to see if there was something Cash could do with the basketball program. Cash loves music as well. He is a fan of rap and hip-hop music with his favorite artists being Machine Gun Kelly and Baby Keem. “Since all this happened, music cheers me up,” Cash said. Almeida was all for getting Cash involved somehow. “When he lost his sight, it put him in a place of unhappiness,” Almeida said. “You see a kid like this, a special kid. If he was interested, we wanted to make him feel like he was part of the family. So since he

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

coached Eddie and her two sons. “When he came to the high school, he was without his sight,” McKenna said. “The remarkable thing about him is that he’s so positive. It’s amazing to watch.” McKenna has been working with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind to teach Eddie to read braille. “I think the most impressive thing is how he’s learned to navigate through things,” McKenna said. “He’s learning the braille so quickly. His determination and positive attitude are tremendous. I’m proud of him and proud to know him and see him do so well.” Moran is impressed with the way the entire athletic department has embraced him. “The people at Kearny High are all about including everyone,” Moran said. “All of the students can’t have a position on the field. I just knew that if Eddie had a chance, he would be great, because he’s so positive and so determined. He’s passionate about basket-

worker who is a joy to be around. He even gives coaching tips to Coach Mullins and Coach (Jody) Hill.” “He’s an inspiration to everyone,” said Hill, the head girls’ basketball coach. “Everyone roots for him. He’s tremendous. A lot of us takes things for granted. He wishes he could be out there playing. He’s doing what he can do. We love him.” “It’s really a positive thing,” Mullins said. “You see him in that basketball atmosphere. We were able to bring him happiness.” And as for those coaching tips? “He really has a good sense of the game and how it goes,” Mullins said. “He’s right on target with what he tells me. He brings a lot more to us than what we’ve done for him. “And all you have to do is give him a ball,” Mullins said. “He loves having that basketball in his hands.” Cash said that if his eyesight returns, he’d love to try motocross bicycle racing. Now there’s an inspiration.

was into music, we thought he could be the DJ before the games and during game stoppages.” “Eddie loves basketball and loves music,” Mullins said. “We can have the two mix together. I thought it was a great idea. He’s such an uplift to us. We all know that if not for losing his sight, then he would be playing.” So at every game, Cash is a fixture, hooking his phone up to the public address system and plays the tunes that both inspires the players and gets the fans involved. And at halftime of Kardinal games, Cash is out taking shots with public address announcer Andrew Gray, who has taken a special liking to Cash. Gray guides Cash to a point on the floor and allows Eddie Cash to be Eddie Money on the floor with that special jump shot. Sharon McKenna is Eddie’s case manager at Kearny High. She first met Eddie when he played Kearny Rec when her husband, Kevin, a science teacher at the Kearny Middle School (Lincoln School)

ball. You can’t not want to help him or encourage him. He’s so determined. You can see the determination from then to now. I’m not surprised.” Eddie Cash is now 18 years old and a junior at Kearny. He’s a member of the National Honor Society with a 3.8 grade point average in his special classes. He hasn’t started to think about college, but it’s probably in the picture. “I like clothes,” Eddie Cash said. “Maybe I can get into clothes design or sneaker design.” Cash is no longer feeling sorry for himself, but he still has dreams of regaining his sight and becoming an NBA player. “Until I’m able to see again, I’m going to try to live my life and have fun,” Eddie Cash said. “Ever since I became blind, I try to stay positive. I feel like I’ve become popular. I’m lucky to have people helping me out all the time, my family and friends.” Cash is so beloved by the entire athletic program. “He’s such a positive kid,” Almeida said. “He’s a hard

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VIEW

Left photo courtesy of Tim Firth , right photo courtesy of North Arlington athletics

Continued from Page 9

The Kearny/North Arlington/Secaucus co-operative hockey team captured the McMullen Cup of the NNJIHL in just their third year of varsity experience. Players Jack Logue (center) and Matt Golon (right) are accepting the Cup. RIGHT:Junior Matt Golon of North Arlington had a brilliant season, scoring 36 goals and adding 20 assists, leading the Kearny/North Arlington/Secaucus co-operative to the McMullen Cup championship in only their third year of varsity hockey.

and tougher because we have a title to defend.” The Kardinals qualified for the Division C state playoffs, but fell to Woodbridge/Colonia in the first round. “Our division is very competitive with some really good schools,” Firth said. “Our goal was to qualify for the states and we did that.”

The Hudson County Board of Commissioners is urging the United States Senate to pass the Postal Service Reform Act (H.R. 3076) The act cleared the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 342-92 on Feb. 8, 2022. The proposed law would require retired postal employees to enroll in Medicare when eligible, while dropping a previous mandate that forced the agency to cover its health care costs years in advance. Maximizing Medicare participation when active postal employees retire and reach age 65 will reduce health care costs for both the Postal

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Service and participants, the commissioners say, because Medicare is the first-payer insurer for its enrollees while costs covered by Postal-only health plans would be reduced. This would lower the Postal Service’s health care expenses by hundreds of millions of dollars annually and reduce future liability for retiree health benefits by approximately $50 billion over the next decade, according to the House Over-

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sight Committee. The proposed Postal Service Reform Act would also codify an integrated delivery network of packages and mail together six days a week. This provision is supported by the Postal Service, the Postal Regulatory Commission, mailers and shippers. “This is a critical service for senior citizens who depend on the Postal Service for prescription delivery,

and for small businesses which get products to their customers with the Postal Service’s affordable prices. It is especially important in rural America where the Postal Service is often the only carrier,” the commissioners said, together, in a statement. Throughout the pandemic, postal workers have delivered everything from medications, essential goods, family letters and holiday gifts to

citizens across the country. Door-to-door delivery services never stopped because of the 6-day integrated delivery network, which the Postal Service Reform Act would codify into law. Board Chairman Anthony Vainieri said copies of the urging resolution would be transmitted to President Joseph R. Biden Jr., Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sens. Robert Menendez and Cory Booker.

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Kearny’s Mullen does it again, wins another NJSIAA wrestling crown By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

For 30 years, the town of Kearny claimed just one NJSIAA state wrestling champion, namely David Cordoba of Kearny High, who won the overall 130-pound state title in 1999. But now, it has become almost an annual occurrence. In 2018, Jacob Cardenas of Kearny, who attended Bergen Catholic, won the first of his two state championships at 195 pounds. Then in 2020, Jimmy Mullen of Kearny, who attends St. Joseph Regional of Montvale, kept the streak going by winning the 285-pound (heavyweight) state championship, the first freshman to ever capture the heavyweight championship. On Saturday afternoon at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, Mullen kept the amazing stretch going by winning

Photo by Jim Hague

In early 2021, Jimmy Mullen (center) posed with Kearny Mayor Alberto Santos (left) and his family and friends after receiving a proclamation from the town outside of Town Hall because of the pandemic. Well, Mullen might have to receive another proclamation soon after winning his second NJSIAA state championship at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City Saturday.

the heavyweight title again, es by superior decision and dominating his way to the gold two others via pin, including a medal by winning two match- pin of Dom Brogna of Bergen Catholic in just 2:06. It was the fourth time this season that Mullen defeated rival Brogna en route to an impressive 35-2 record. And get this? Mullen’s career mark now stands at 74-5 and none of those five losses Dr. Prakash Dr. Hector have been to a wrestler in the J. Doshi Aguilar state of New Jersey, meaning THE CHICKEN AND THE EGG OF HEART DISEASE he’s undefeated against fellow It’s easy to see how living and and strokes. wrestlers in the Garden State.

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with EatCleanBro.com. “It’s crazy having all these little kids coming up to me and wanting to take pictures with me,” Mullen said. “It’s great to see every little kid have a smile when they come up to me. I love it. I stop anywhere to take pictures and sign my name. It’s a lot of fun.” Mullen said that he “kind of dominated” at the states this year, even though it was tough facing Brogna for a fourth time. “It’s tough to wrestle anyone that many times,” Mullen said. “It’s tough to keep up.” But Mullen wasted no time disposing of Brogna, recording a pin in his final high school match of the season. It also set the tone for a great afternoon of championship wrestling at Boardwalk Hall, as Mullen’s match was the first of the finals. “I feel like I’ve been getting better in the (wrestling) room,” said Mullen, who trains almost daily at DC Training in either Paramus or Riverdale, the training facility owned by former state champion Diego Crespo of Paramus Catholic. Mullen said that he saw Cordoba in Atlantic City, who admitted to Mullen “that you’re officially now better See MULLEN, Page 14

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Obituaries Jon Cassill It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Jon Cassill (66). He was a bright light in this world and will be missed by all who knew him. Jon was born in Cleveland on Dec. 11, 1955. He graduated from the American University in Paris. Jon was a freelance artist and designer in New York City prior to joining Tiffany and Co., where he was a senior designer and product development project manager for 20 years. Jon was a brilliant artist, talented photographer, and avid gardener, but his true passion was for his family. Jon’s eyes would always light up when he spoke of his children Alexa Zoe and Sean. He was devoted to his wife of 32 years — Elena. Jon had the capacity to see beauty and magic in the smallest things. He loved fiercely and deeply and we take comfort knowing that Jon is now at peace and surrounded by light. In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you perform a random act of kindness, and be gentle and compassionate with yourselves and each other. A private celebration of life will take place at a later date.

William ‘Howdy’ Ronan William “Howdy” Ronan of Little Ferry, formerly of Harrison, died Dec. 10, 2021, in the presence of his partner Clair Cuniff. Bill was born in Newark and was raised in Harrison where he lived for most of his life. Bill was predeceased by his parents John and Fanny Ronan, as well as his brother Jack and sister Patricia. Bill’s dad was born in Northern Ireland and his mother hailed from Scotland.

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Bill was immensely proud of his heritage. At a young age, Bill was given the nickname “Howdy” due to his red hair and freckles that caused him to resemble the children’s television character Howdy Doodie. As Bill got older, some people took to calling him “The Dude,” but to most he was known simply as Howdy. Howdy attended Holy Cross Grammar School and Harrison High School, where he excelled at soccer and baseball. After high school, he entered the US Army and later received an honorable discharge. After returning from the Army, Howdy became a local coaching legend. From a young age, he showed leadership abilities on the sidelines, coaching not only semi-professional soccer but basketball and softball as well. Howdy loved sports and they were an important part of his life. Bill had an encyclopedic knowledge of players, stats, trivia and the fundamentals of all sports. As he grew older, he developed a particular affinity for girls’ softball, which he grew to love. Aside from sports, Howdy had a wonderful, lighthearted personality with a quick

wit and a unique ability to needle you and make you happy that he did. Howdy high pitched lilting Irish voice filled the room and you know immediately that the “Dude” was in the house. To say that Howdy was a Harrison legend is an understatement indeed. All who knew him and had the fortune of spending time in his company will treasure his memory. In addition to tending bar in many Harrison and Kearny establishments, Howdy also worked for Amtrak at Penn Station in Newark. Howdy was a “red cap,” or baggage handler and many a commuter came to look forward to their interactions with Howdy who seemed to make their commute just a bit more pleasant. Unfortunately, Howdy suffered a stroke at the age of 50. Just to prove his doctors wrong (something Howdy relished) he went on to live for more than 30 years post stroke. Anyone can tell you how rare that feat is. Whenever asked about it, Howdy would just say he was a tough kid from Harrison. That tough kid from Harrison will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Rest in peace William “Howdy” Ronan.

Susan Campbell McKeown Susan Campbell McKeown, 86, of Kearny, died March 1, 2022. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Stephen’s Church in Kearny. Cremation was private. The Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny, was in charge. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Susan has lived in Kearny since 1973. She worked in environmental services, and as a housekeeping director for Servicemaster, caring for departments at Beth Israel Hospital in Newark and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson. She enjoyed reading, usually taking in one book per day. She also liked spending time writing her memoirs. Susan was well known in town, and her delicious steak pies were the best anywhere, and were enjoyed by many. Susan cherished Friday nights spent with the Pink Ladies, and especially time spent with her loving grandchildren. Susan was the beloved wife of the late Sonny McKeown; loving mother of Gerald McKeown and his wife Susan, Joanne McKeown and

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. Thomas McKeown; treasured grandmother of Jean Marie, Kelly Campbell, Ian Stewart and Kieran; and dear sister of Tina Smith. Susan was best known for her spontaneous cheekiness and wit. She will be dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Robert J. Padavano Robert Joseph Padavano, 53, died suddenly on March 2, 2022. Rob was born on Sept. 19, 1968, in Kearny. He was raised in Belleville and later resided in Kearny, where he enjoyed many friends, football and especially spending time with his dad, Robert Sr. Robert will always be remembered for his infectious laugh, generosity and warmth. Robert Jr. is survived by his father Robert Padavano Sr., mother Diana (McLaughlin) Padavano; brother Michael, sister Renae, brother-in-law Al Maslag, nephew Joshua, nephew and Godson Jacob Anthony; nieces Alexandria and Maya and many loving aunts and uncles. Cremation was private. The Armitage & Wiggins Funeral See OBITS, Page 14

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MULLEN

Continued from Page 9 than me,” Mullen said of the Cordoba meeting. He also heard from his good friend Cardenas via text. Cardenas is currently a sophomore with the Cornell University wrestling team. “Jacob said that I had to get

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one more to be better than him,” Mullen said. “I’m going to go for it next year.” Mullen said that it was a little tougher this time than it was in 2020. Mullen did not participate in the state tournament last year during the pandemic-shortened season, electing to train for the USA Wrestling national junior team that he participated with in Bu-

dapest, winning a silver medal. “This one I felt more pressure because I was the top seed and everyone was expecting me to win,” Mullen said. “People kept coming up to me and telling me that I should win. But I did win and the pressure was relieved.” Mullen is taking college visits to determine where he might end up, going to Oklaho-

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

ma State and North Carolina so far. He has not made a decision yet. And as for taking some time off and enjoying his victory, that’s not Mullen’s style. “I’m taking (Sunday) off,” Mullen said. “I’ll be back in the room on Monday. I’m there every day.” Mullen said that he might participate in some upcoming

national tournaments, but hasn’t decided on that just yet. Mullen is also a standout football player as a defensive end for the Green Knights in the fall, but it’s safe to say his legacy will be as a wrestler. One thing’s for sure: Cardenas and Cordoba might have to look up to Mullen next year. “I’m going to go for another one,” Mullen said. “I love it.”

OBITS

topher and Nathan; adoring great-grandmother of Vienna and dear sister of Roberta Pearn. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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Dorothy Ann M. DeMedici

Ashlee Lynne Kelly

Ashlee Lynne Kelly, Dorothy Ann M. DeMedici, born May 2, 79, died March 4, 2022. 1991, died Relatives and friends are inFeb. 27, 2022. vited to attend a visitation for She is surDorothy Ann at the Armitage vived by her & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 parents Tina Belgrove Drive, Kearny, on and Ron Kelly Tuesday, March 8, from 4-7 and brother p.m. A funeral service will be celebrated in the funeral home Eric. She is also survived by her boyfriend Jacob Jarvis on Wednesday at 11 a.m., and and his bother Melissa Jarvis. burial be in Arlington CemeShe is survived by many tery, Kearny. aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces Born in Kearny, Dorothy and nephews. She will be Ann was a lifelong resident missed. until moving in with her Ashlee graduated from daughter in Washington Kearny High School and Township several years ago. received an associate degree Dorothy Ann was an avid from New Jersey City Unibowler and a talented paintversity. She was currently er. She enjoyed sewing and studying for a nursing degree crocheting, and especially from Phoenix College in Artreasured making her loved izona. She was also working ones handmade ornaments at full time at Yauapai Regional Christmastime. Medical Center as an emerThe daughter of the late gency room administrator. William and Dorothy Ann (nee Ashlee loved animals, Robshaw) McCullough, Doroespecially her cat Luna. She thy Ann was the beloved wife touched and helped many a of the late Anthony F. DeMedlife in her travels and we were ici; loving mother of Christine so proud of her. Santiago and her husband A celebration of life meThomas and Susan Michael morial will take place at the and her husband Christopher; Harrison-East Newark Elks cherished grandmother of on April 16 at 2 p.m. All are Thomas Jr., Vanilla, Chrisinvited.

Deadline for Obituaries Monday by 10AM

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

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! HELP WANTED !

Eastern Glass Resources, Inc. 770 Supor Blvd. Harrison, NJ

Full or Part Time positions available: • • • • •

Receptionist/Customer Service Representative Estimators Order Entry Associates CAD Associates Production/Warehouse Associates (Day & Night shifts available) • Truck Drivers Who we are: Eastern Glass is a leading fabricator and supplier of glass and architectural aluminum panels since 1986. The company continues to reinvest back into the business with the latest state of the art technology to help better service all our customer’s needs. We are looking for motivated individuals who want to grow with us as a team and be part of such a dynamic industry.

Please call our office at 973-483-8411 if interested! For all your glass needs since 1986 www.elgassr.com

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Observer Classifieds

The Observer 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

Hiring workers for kitchen assistance, pastry assistance, cleaning, front customer service, waiters. Contact/Information 973-816-0328 or vicentesbread@gmail.com. Vicentes Bread Kitchen and Cafe 343 Kearny Ave Kearny NJ.

Local business seeks part-timer with wide availability capable of lifting 25 pounds. Duties include light clerical work, answering phones, running errands, using computer. Driver’s license required. Bilingual preferred. Hours 10a-3p weekdays. Send email indicating interest to jobat07032@gmail.com

CDL Driver Wanted Adult Medical Day Care (Belleville) Part Time/ Full Time Driver for adult medical daycare in Essex county needed. A CDL with Class B and Endorsement P a MUST!!! Spanish speaking a plus. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM and 5 PM. Call (862)-264-0906 518 Washington Ave Belleville

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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

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED Need Driver/ Loader pick-up passengers in van and load in helicopter. Full/Part time position Retires welcome call (862)849-2652 Location Kearny NJ Heliport 42W03

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Stable and SAFE work environment and a chance to grow with a solid company •SKILLED CLIMBER & EXPERIENCED GROUND PERSON •DRIVER West Milford/ North Jersey area

Experience & Transportation and a valid driver’s license a must Call 973-728-0842 44W12

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North Arlington Public Schools

Paraprofessionals (Aides and Teacher Assistants) (P/T $13 - $16 per hour) Start date on or about 3/21/22 Please apply at www.navikings.org under Employment Opportunities AA/EOE 44W02

NOW HIRING: Classroom Aides/Paraprofessionals $13.63 per hour Trained ABA Aides/Paraprofessionals $16.00 per hour Daily Substitute Teachers (Must hold a valid substitute certiﬁcation) $150 per day Long Term Substitute Teachers (Must hold a valid teaching certiﬁcation in the assigned subject area) $263.93 per day If you are interested in applying, please contact: Mark Fasciana Human Resources Manager 201.955.5139 mfasciana@kearnyschools.com 42W03

Moishe’s Moving Systems, the leader in moving solutions for the past 35 years, is seeking individuals that are self motivated, detail oriented, and have a customer ﬁrst mentality for year-round positions. Who we are: Moishe’s Moving Systems has been the premier moving company serving the NYC market for the past 37 years. Every day we strive to alleviate the moving stressors from every customer we serve with on time service, friendly movers, personalized attention and completing the job to their outmost satisfaction. We always try to go the extra step and differentiate ourselves from the common moving companies. We are a proud partner of many organizations trying to end hunger , poverty and make the world a better place, come and join us. Who you are: Movers must be over 18 You have experience in moving/transportation or you are willing to learn Availability to work every day and some weekends What you get: Hourly pay depending on experience 401k contributions Paid vacation/Sick Days/Holidays Health Insurance Job Types: Full-time, Part-time 800-367-4453 or 551-689-9448 42W03

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTE - Not a legal advertisment

38W09

The Kearny School District Come join a great team in a rewarding school setting!

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

Receptionist/ofﬁce assistant And Warehouse Workers needed Apply in person: 260 Schuyler Ave Kearny,NJ,07032 No soliciting calls or emails

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

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Dish Wireless LLC is proposing to install new wireless telecommunications antennas on an existing building located at 425-433 Beech Street, Kearny, Hudson County, NJ. The new facility will consist of the collocation of equipment and antennas at approximately 60 feet above ground level (measured to the top of the antennas) on the 52-foot (60-foot including appurtenances)-tall building. Any interested party wishing to submit comments regarding the potential effects the proposed facility may have on any historic property may do so by sending such comments to: Project 6122001778 - MH EBI Consulting, 21 B Street, Burlington, MA 01803, or via telephone at (785) 760-5938 44W01

LIFEGUARD Needed for spring and summer open swim program. Valid lifeguard training & CPR cert req. 35 hours per week. $15 per hour. Application deadline 3/30 For Applications go to https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ 44W03

Professional painter, NOT HANDYMAN, for interior/exterior must have own transportation and own hand tools. Email rspj3817@gmail. com with qualiﬁcations

Help wanted for Busy Deli Full Time- Part Time Days and Evenings Apply in Person D&F Deli 396 Davis Ave, Kearny 44W06

44W03

Orthopedist’s practice in Kearny looking for full-time, temporary secretary up to approximately 6 months (M-F) 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Must be professional, responsible, friendly and motivated. Duties include, but are not limited to answering telephones, scheduling appointments, registration of patients, handling of medical records, faxing, etc. Spanish speaking a plus, BUT not mandatory. Please fax letter of interest with resume to (201) 998-9201 Attn: Keith, Ofﬁce Mgr. Must show documented proof of full vaccination for COVID-19. Salary discussed upon contacting selected, qualiﬁed applicants. 44W03

Take notice that applications for a Waterfront Development Individual Permit, a Flood Hazard Control Act Permit, and a Water Quality Certification will be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Division of Land Use Regulation (DLUR) for the development described as follows: PROJECT NAME: Remediation of a Portion of Occidental Chemical Corporation (OCC) Chromite Ore Processing Residue (COPR) Site 49 in Kearny, New Jersey PROJECTAPPLICANT: Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of its affiliate Occidental Chemical Corporation (OCC) The proposed Project consists of remedial activities on a portion of Chromite Ore Processing Residue (COPR) Site 49 in Kearny, New Jersey. The work will be implemented by Glenn Springs Holdings, Inc., on behalf of their affiliate, OCC, in accordance with a Remedial Action Workplan approved by NJDEP pursuant to a Consent Judgement between NJDEP and OCC; PPG Industries, Inc.; and Honeywell International Inc., dated September 2011. The proposed Project includes excavating and removing COPR-impacted fill from Site 49, constructing a cap over the remaining COPR-impacted soil to limit human and environmental exposure, and implementing institutional controls (a deed notice) on the site. BLOCK: 298 LOTS: 14, 14.01, 15, 15.01 and 15.02 MUNICIPALITY: Kearny COUNTY: Hudson The complete permit application package can be reviewed at the Kearny Town Clerk’s Office or by appointment at NJDEP’s Trenton Office. NJDEP welcomes comments and any information that you may provide concerning the proposed development and site. Please submit your written comments within 15 calendar days of the date of this notice to the following address: New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Division of Land Use Regulation Mail Code 501-02A PO Box 420 Trenton, New Jersey 08625 Attn: Kearny Supervisor 44W01

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

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Observer Classifieds

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

BELLEVILLE

KEARNY

BELLEVILLE 1 Bedroom in Belleville on Garden Avenue, nice location, laundry facilities on site, heat and hot water included, no pets, 1,200.00 month rent, 1 ½ month security, please call Joanne 973699-3146. 44W03

KEARNY Fully Renovated 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths. 1.5 Living rooms, 1 DR. Full kitchen. $2,800/ mth plus 1/2 mth security. Utilities Seperate. No Pets/Smoking. Available March 1st (201)566-1357

BLOOMFIELD BLOOMFIELD 4 rooms, 2 BR. EIK. LR. $1,000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking. Close to Transportation. Background check Available March 1st (201)998-2101 43W03

HARRISON HARRISON 2nd ﬂoor. Renovated 2BR, 2 Bath, CA/Heat, laundry, parking. No pets. $2300 + 1 month security. Available March 1st. (646)5290562 42W03 HARRISON Large 1 BR. Featuring large windows, High Ceilings, View of NYC Skyline. HW Floors, Full Ceramic Tile Bath & more. $1400 + security and utilities. No Pets. Available Now (201)9916942 43W03 HARRISON 1 bedroom, 4 room apartment. Utilities Seperate. Clean and freshly painted. No Pets. $1,350/mth plus 1.5 mth security. (908)868-0989 44W03

KEARNY KEARNY First ﬂoor. 3 large rooms. LR. EIK. 1 Bath. access to backyard. Near School & Main Avenue. No Pets. Available April 1st (201)9913366 or (201)955-2662 44W03

PAINTING & DECORATING

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

N.ARLINGTON RenoKevin’s Affordable vated 1st floor. 2 beds, Painting 2 baths, finished base- * Plastering * Sheetrockment, laundry, private ing * Carpentry and fenced yard, 1 car garage more. Our service and + 2 car driveway. 1 month prices will be the best. deposit + 1 month rent. Our customers come Separate utilities. Avail- first. Very neat and clean. able, March 1st. Text for Don’t miss out! Senior inquiries. (201)889-2709 Discount. Fully insured 43W03 (201) 565-6393 39W06

NORTH ARLINGTON Studio, 1 BR, EIK, Bath. 1.5 Months security. Utilities included. No Pets/ KEARNY Renovated No Smoking. 1 person modern 3 bedroom apart- preferred. Available Now ment ﬁrst ﬂoor, access (201)428-8815 43W03 to patio , ready for rent March 1, no pets , no laundry, $2100 + 1 .5 security NORTH ARLINGTON deposit, separate utilities. 3 BR. Totally renovated. contact (201)772-9965 Available April 1st. $2000 42W03 Call Carlos (201)9887536 44W03 42W03

KEARNY 3rd ﬂ. 1 BR. LR. EIK. $1250 + 1-1/2 months security. HT/ HW included. Owner occupied. Cats ok. Avl April 1st. No smoking. Quiet residence. Proof of Income required After 10am (201) 424-1846 (201)998-0297 44W03

N.NEWARK Forest Hills area. 2 Bedrooms 2 ﬂoors. Newly Renovated. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now. Section 8 OK. (973)752-6877 44W03

N.ARLINGTON Beautiful apartment, renovated. Large rooms. 2 BR. LR. and EIK. Plenty of public park. Close to major Transportation. Hot water included. No Pets/Smoking. $1750 + 1.5 months security. Available Now (201)522-4470 42W03 NORTH ARLINGTON Studio apartment with separate kitchen in garden apartment complex. Heat supplied. $1,200/mth plus 1 mth security. No Pets. Parking available. Laundry on facility. Call between 10am-7pm. (201)997-2341 44W03

HAPPY St.PATRICK’S

ROOM FOR RENT

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

KEARNY Nice and Clean room $600 + 1 mth security. Utilities, mini refrigerator, Cable & internet included. No Kitchen Avl. Now (201) 279-9966

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PEST CONTROL

PEST CONTROL Call 973-932-2092 43W06

RUBBISH REMOVAL A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

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

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

LACA CORP

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

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC. 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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C&L Tile Repairs

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ROOFING/SIDING

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KEARNY Fully renovated 2 bedrooms, 1 full bathroom, Full kitchen, LR and DR included. $2,100/ mth plus 1/2 mth security Utilities included. No Pets/Smoking. Available March 1st. (201)5661357 42W03 KEARNY Arlington Section, 1st ﬂ. 4 family. 1 BR. DR. LR. EIK. $1,400+1 month security. H/HW included. no pets/smoking. Available March 1st (201) 998-7268 42WO3

Brick paver specialist All concrete work. Blacktop driveways. Power washing. Satisfaction guaranteed. Free estimates. (973) 979-1167 or (973) 323-5123

Forever Green Landscape Construction & Design Pavers- Retaining WallsMasonry-LandscapingFence-Decks Text: (201)949 8824 NJForeverGreen.com

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Ostanski promoted to USMC Lance Corporal

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Kyle Ostanski, of Kearny, a member of the Kearny High School Class of 2020, was recently promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps. Kyle is the son of Heather and Christopher Ostanski.

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LPD: Newark pair arrested after alleged shoplifting incident By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

Newark duo were nabbed by Lyndhurst police after a suspected shoplifting incidents at a local business, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri

said. According to Auteri: On Wednesday, March 2, shortly before 8 p.m., officers responded to Home Goods, 558 New York Ave., to investigate a reported shoplifting. A store employee there said he witnessed a man and woman flee the store with several large bags and flee in an older model Lexus sedan. A description of the suspects and vehicle had been broadcasted to the patrol officers. Officer Michael Clifford soon after observed the vehicle leaving the area, so he conducted a motor vehicle stop. Officer Clifford learned the vehicle had two occupants, later identified as 22-year-old Tyrese Gregory (driver) and 22-year-old Brianna Fillmore, both of Newark. Officer Clifford says he observed multiple bags filled with clothing, most of which still had price tags and security

devices on them. During the investigation, Officer Clifford was joined by Sgt. Richard Jasinski, Det. Nick Abruscato and Officers Michael Scalese, Michael Giangeruso and Nicollette Villani. A search of the vehicle uncovered additional miscellaneous items suspected to have been stolen from several other area retail stores. Officers later learned both had warrants. Gregory had an outstanding warrant out of Hillside and Fillmore had outstanding warrants out of Livingston and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office. Additionally, Fillmore was found to be in possession of a wax fold of a white powdery substance, suspected heroin. Gregory was released on the warrant with a pending court appearance in Hillside. Fillmore was charged with possession of heroin before being released into the custody of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office. Charges on both for receiving stolen property are pending the completion of the investigation.

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES Belleville’s Mitchell earns BSN at U. of Ohio Jasmine Mitchell, of Belleville, graduated with a bachelor’s in nursing from Ohio University’s College of Health Sciences and Professions in fall 2021. More than 1,800 students graduated with bachelor's, master's or doctoral degrees from Ohio University in the fall semester 2021. Lyndhurst’s Maddi on Emerson’s Dean’s List Alexa Maddi, of Lyndhurst, was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2021 semester at Emerson College in Boston.

Kearny’s Solinski on Dean’s List at Drew Nicholas Solinski , of the Kearny High School Class of 2021, earned Dean’s List honors at Drew University, Madison, for the fall 2021 semester, with a GPA of 3.9. He is studying computer science/engineering and cyber security. This honor is reserved for students who are at the top of their class with a GPA of 3.6 higher.

Garfield School — February 2022 Following are the Students of the Month at Garfield School for February 2022. Kindergarten: Mason Estrella, Aria Merced, Schneider Rodriguez Lopez. First Grade: Isabella Gomes Rocha, Sara Oliveira, Nathan Paredes. Second Grade: Isabella Nolazco-Gallo, Ryan Reis DeOliveira, Jackson Roemer. Third Grade: Sachari DeJesus, Gia Gonzalez,

Hannah Morales. Fourth Grade: Brian Chesney, Jorge Gallardo, Gabriella Navarrete Velasco, Jamiel Ordonez,Julian Tirado. Fifth Grade: Isabella Mangal, Hellen Mejia, Kaylen Torres, Zoe Wozniczko. Sixth Grade: Matthew Capcha, Ester Fernandez, Kolton Gryckiewicz, Victor Perez Jurado, Dayanara Terrones.

CENTER

on its board, estimated it would take about six months to complete plans and specifications, bid out the job and award a contract, and then getting township permits, before it can start to demolish the houses and then build the new structure. He said the project cost is projected to be in the range of $9 million. Between 50% and 70% of church members are Egyptian-born or came to the U.S. as children and probably nine out of 10 members live within a 10-to-30-minute driving distance of the church, he said. St. Mary and St. Mercurius Coptic Orthodox Church falls within the Archdiocese of Coptic Orthodox Churches of New Jersey, headquartered in Cedar Grove.

Youngsters will also have access to an entertainment hall where they can play ping pong, board games, X-Box selections and more. Plenty of open space behind the center affords opportunities for youngsters to play outdoors during warmer weather. There will also be a multipurpose room with tables and chairs that will be outfitted with what Tadros described as an industrial-size kitchen where the church may host a variety of activities such as youth group meetings, baby showers, wedding parties and the like. Tadros, who began his connection with the church as a student and now sits

East Newark PD ‘Reads Across America’

To make Dean’s List, a student needs a grade point average of 3.7 or higher for that semester. Maddi is majoring in journalism and is a member of the Class of 2024.

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Continued from Page 8

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Contributed photo

East Newark Police Officer Billy Erezuma is seen here reading to schoolchildren at the East Newark Public School on ‘Read Across America’ day. Erezuma, the department’s public information officer, was joined that day by Officer Junior Fiori.

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Wednesday, March 9, 2022

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