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Wednesday, 16 March 2022

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Vol. CXXXIV, No. 45

ON THE INSIDE Following an incomparable 20+ year run with The Observer, Jim Hague says ‘Toodleloo’ PAGE 9

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

PARADE RETURNS Photos by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

espite blustery & frigid conditions (wind chills were in the teens), the return of the West Hudson St. Patrick’s Day parade March 13 was a tremendous success. It was the first parade here since 2019, as COVID-19 led to the cancelation of the event in 2020 & 2021. At left, the Marine Corps Color Guard leads the parade. At right, it’s Sneakers, Tata Mota’s ‘Irish’ bulldog, who was a hit wherever he went during the parade. Find additional photos on Page 19.

Schaer, Sarlo bill halts all public deals with Russia By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

ov. Philip D. Murphy has signed bipartisan legislation into law to prohibit public entities from doing business with Russia, or companies tied to Russia and Belarus. The legislation, Assembly Bill A-3090, was sponsored by Assemblyman Gary Schaer and Sen. Paul Sarlo, both of the 36th Legislative District.

“New Jersey will not fund international conflict; we will act in cooperation with the Biden Administration to make the Russian invasion financially untenable,” Schaer, who represents parts of Passaic and Bergen counties, said. “Violating Ukraine’s democratic right to self-governance must have consequences. My heart is with the people of Ukraine, and the diaspora community in New Jersey. Our state will stand

with Ukraine in its fight for freedom.” During these times of uncertainty, Schaer says he is committed to using the state’s resources to help force an end to Russia’s illegal violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty. The legislation bans public entities from investing pension funds, accepting public contracts or partnering with Russian and Belarusian financial institutions. “We won’t stand by while Russia

see special section on page 8

conducts an unjustified war against Ukraine without taking action,” Sarlo said. “These economic prohibitions will make them pay a price by cutting off sources of revenue here in New Jersey. If other states follow our lead, it will make the sanctions imposed by countries throughout the world even more effective. “We should try to bleed Putin and his oligarchs dry of their profiteering.”

The Observer | www.theobserver.com By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

or this story, we’re going to go back in time — way back. It’s January 1996, and this world was vastly different. So was Kearny. And so was the Kearny Police Department. One of the worst blizzards in Jersey history blanketed the region that month and if you recall, Kearny was seriously paralyzed by the storm. The Kearny Police Department was led by Chief Thomas Wilgus Sr. and his deputy, who would later become the chief for a brief period after, was the late-great Thomas “Tim” Sharples. (After Sharples, John P. Dowie would complete the twoyear period with three police chiefs in, come 1998 — and he served for 19 years.) Also that month, there was a rookie called John Taylor, who after nearly 26 years on the job, retired a few weeks ago at the rank of lieutenant. He concluded what may only be described as a decorated career. At retirement, he was the commander of the Traffic Bureau, and he was so loved by the crossing guards and the parking violations officers who reported to him that nearly 50 of

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

BELOVED TAYLOR CALLS IT A CAREER them gathered on Laurel Avenue on his last day on the job to bid him adieu. (More on that later.) In-between, he served as a patrol officer, a narcotics detective and the leader of Traffic as a sergeant and later lieutenant. Cop of the Year early on Perhaps it should come as no surprise Taylor was on the job but a year when he was selected the Police

Officer of the Year for 1997 by his peers. We wondered what happened to lead to the choice — we weren’t surprised he was selected so early on in his career — but there’s almost always an epic story behind why cops are chosen as the best of each year. Taylor relayed the story with his epic sense of humor. “I was just minding my own business on patrol on Kearny Avenue and I encountered a man with a

machete,” Taylor recalls of the incident. “I wasn’t called to the scene but there he was. My backup was (Ret. Capt. Charles) Fergie and when he got there, we crashed through a huge front window of a store. We got him. “And I got Cop of the Year and Fergie got seven stitches.” Taylor says being a police officer Continued on the next page

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Wednesday, March 16, 2022 Continued from previous page in 2022 is nothing like it was even back in 1996-1997. Yet he always adapted to changes on all fronts. “I always wanted to help people,” the Harrison native and Harrison High School alumnus says of his career. “And I always said, ‘If you treat the people around you right, they will treat you the very same way.’” What a mantra to live by. But it speaks volumes of the kind of cop he was — and why dozens of civilian employees gathered to say goodbye to him when he retired.

Taylor, center, is seen here on his last day of work with his crossing guards and PVOs.

Farewell, boss Carol Manley, who for the last few years has served as a parking violations officer, before that was a Kearny crossing guard. So for many, many years, she’s reported to one man and has had one boss — Lt. John Taylor. When she got word the boss put in his papers to sail into the sunset, Manley, like all the others, was devastated since her long-time boss was going — but also elated because who isn’t excited for anyone who is not going to have to work anymore? So she quickly jumped into action, and began to arrange a “Walk Out” for Taylor. Almost every crossing guard and PVO was on hand to wish him well say goodbye — and frankly, I’ve

never seen anything like it in my career for a retiring police officer who was not a chief. On a cold day, on their own time, one by one, they arrived and they did this for their boss. The crew gave Taylor a parting gift. But it was the outpouring of love and respect for Taylor, starting from Manley and winding its way down to the most recent guard hired, that was awesome. And let’s just say, for Manley, this is a tough pill to swallow. “He is just an incredible man,” Manley says of Taylor. “Whenever we needed him for anything, he always had our back.” And did he ever — never more so than in March 2020, when the Coronavirus pandemic broke out, schools

and the world shut down and Taylor performed a minor miracle — keeping the guards and PVOs on the payroll despite all that was ongoing. “It was unbelievable,” Manley says. “So much was happening and he worked his butt off to make sure we were all taken care of. All he ever did was care about us, our well-being.” And that’s the kind of

man Taylor is. It was what he, himself, said when we asked him why he wanted to be a cop — to help people — and that’s what he did throughout his career. And that reminded Manley of something else Taylor once did that didn’t so much shock her as it did remind her what kind human Taylor is. Manley says she was chatting with a group

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of people about a fellow crossing guard whose kid was having a rough go of it during the pandemic and who needed to use a food pantry to get provisions for her home. The thing was, she didn’t have access to transport so there was that issue. Taylor, nearby, overheard part of the conversation and without thinking says, “Carol, make me a list and I will go to ShopRite myself to get whatever she needs. Or if it’s easier, I will just give her the cash.” Though he misunderstood the general premise of the chat, there he was, ready to help the daughter of one of his guards, by going to a supermarket to buy her whatever she needed. He didn’t even know the person’s daughter, yet there he was, willing as you’ll often hear yours truly say, to be a Man for Others. That’s the kind of guy Taylor is — and that’s how Manley wants him to be remembered. See JT, Page 15

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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 Dir.................................................................................Pages 18

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Wednesday, March 16, 2022

Several honored at recent NA council meeting, including centenarian, the retired Lubowiecki By Ron Leir For The Observer

centenarian, a health care worker and a crossing guard were among those singled out for personal tributes by the North Arlington governing body on March 10. Meeting in person at the Senior Center while the council chambers are undergoing renovations, Mayor Daniel H. Pronti and members of the Borough Council saluted John Calabro, Elaine Lubowiecki dvertising@theobserver.com 201-991-1600 and Mary Barrett for their : Client: contributions to the borough. Photo courtesy of Daniel H. Pronti Resident John Calabro, center, with Mayor Daniel H. Pronti, with proclamation recognizing Calabro, who turns 100 Calabro’s 100th birthday. Members of the Borough Council flank Calabro and Pronti after the March 25, moved to North proclamation was read. Arlington from Newark in 1932. member of the Navy Seasbees worked for Colonial Sand Booster Club, he was part of Seven years later, he on both the Atlantic and & Stone for 36 years and the committee that created graduated from the borough Pacific fronts. As a civilian, arranged for the donation of the NAHS Hall of Fame highHere school he played dvertising: is where the updated template with a new photo of Jarlynn he returned to North theHyde: concrete used to build in 1979. He remained a football for the Vikings and Arlington where he met and the original dugouts and dedicated borough recreation was a member of the first wed Catherine. The couple was instrumental in helping and Vikings fan. In 1994, he NAHS boys’ basketball team. had two sons. get a traffic light and lights was inducted as an honorary Calabro enlisted in the In the borough, Calabro installed at Rip Collins Field, member of the Hall of Fame. Navy in 1941, serving as a making it safer for local Today, Calabro continues children. to live in the borough where He volunteered as a he enjoys reading, watching Cub Scout leader and baseball and enjoying time Little League coach and, with his five grandchildren as president of the NAHS and 13 great-grandchildren.

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“Mr. Calabro, among many accomplishments, is a Navy Veteran who proudly graduated from North Arlington High School in the Class of 1939,” Pronti said. “What I also found impressive is that John was a member of the very first North Arlington High School basketball team. “John was in attendance with his beautiful family and we all had a few laughs, especially when I asked him if he knew who Fisher Field was named after. He smirked and simply said, ‘Oh yeah, it was named for Fisher.’ We all enjoyed his company and wish to see him again soon.” Lubowiecki, meanwhile, retired Jan. 1, 2022, following a stellar 21-year career with the North Arlington Health Department. She started in the department as a clerk/ typist/registrar in December 2000. A mayoral proclamation declared, “Elaine “has served this municipality and the public with distinction and selflessness and throughout her 21 years of service, she Continued on the next page

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Wednesday, March 16, 2022 Continued from previous page was dedicated and her work was greatly appreciated by her employers and coworkers alike.” Barrett received the firstever mayoral Outstanding Citizen Award “for outstanding service and dedication to the borough of North Arlington” in recognition of her work as a school crossing guard. Barrett was credited with risking her life in helping save a female pedestrian from grave injury when a reckless motorist failed to heed a warning to slow down and careened up and around the curb along Belmount Avenue near her post at a high rate of speed in the fall of 2021. Pronti also paid tribute to the North Arlington Woman’s Club for its legacy of service to the

The Observer | www.theobserver.com community “for a period of 81 years of caring, compassion and concern along with contributing to the American Diabetes Association, the Center for Hope and Caring, HANDS (aiding developmentally disabled adults), Autism Speaks, The Valerie Fund, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, UNICEF, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Canine Companions for Independence, North Arlington public schools and many other organizations.” NAWC was also credited with having “donated volunteer hours to national, statewide and local community service organizations helping children, seniors, the handicapped and those in need.”

Contributed photo

Calabro’s family joined him for a photo with Councilman Kirk Del Russo and the mayor. Calabro, who turns 100 this month, was on the first-ever NAHS hoops team in 1939, the mayor said.

The Observer’s correction policy The Observer strives to bring our readers the best and the most accurate news. However, from time to time, there may be mistakes in what we report. As such, we take our obligation to report errors seriously. If you believe we’ve made an error, please send an e-mail to editorial@theobserver.com, indicating what is to be corrected. We will ensure a correction is noted (if necessary) in a future print edition — and online. If access to e-mail is not possible, please call us at 201991-1600.

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Wednesday, March 16, 2022

Opinion & Viewpoints EDITORIAL

When gas was a wee bit cheaper ...

When adults use social media to spread lies and call it ‘opinion’

Sure, with inflation, it’s the equivalent of paying $2.89 a gallon today, but it would still be a lot cheaper than today. This is Benny Pezzolla, the late brother of Observer GM Bob Pezzolla and Frank’s GMC’s Frank Pezzolla. The photo was taken circa 1952 on Ridge Road in Lyndhurst at Frank’s Garage.

t is sometimes stunning that there are adult human beings who do not know the difference between an opinion and matters of facts. One possesses an opinion: “I hate the summer months.” One cannot possess an opinion, “I hate the summer months because it snows too much.” The simple truth is this is a factually incorrect statement, provable beyond reasonable doubt. Why this example? Well, we’re trying our level best to be kind and to illustrate the difference between facts and opinions, an art that is completely lost by so many in 2022. And it’s also to demonstrate the First Amendment, while protecting our ability to feel one way or another about just about anything, has its limitations. You may say, without hesitation, “I hate Joe Smith.” You may not say, “Joe Smith is a convicted felon” when he isn’t. This all leads to social media, where countless people still think they have the absolute right to say whatever they want about whomever they want — without consequence. We’ve seen it so many times in the last decade, it would include enough material for an entire hardcover book. It’s out of control. It’s unacceptable. And it has to stop. And it is why we were pleased to see a local business owner serve a cease and desist letter to another private citizen last week who used to social media to share the business owner’s home address without his permission. Words have consequences. And for far too long, places like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media platforms have become cesspools for lies, fallacies and a complete and utter disregard for the truth. We could almost understand this situation were children involved. Kids say the darndest things, don’t they? But we’re talking adults here, folks, and it’s time adults cut the nonsense and act more responsibly online, before it’s too late and your next comments are about your appearance in court.

LaClair: Rose is at it again with blind attacks on any Democrat he can find To the Editor: What would we do without Mr. (Armand) Rose? In his latest attack on any Democrat he can find, he complains about Gov. (Philip D.) Murphy’s choice for Attorney General. Matt Platkin was a member of the law review at Stanford, and practiced with one of the most distinguished law firms in

LETTER TO THE EDITOR the US. He has a wealth of experience in government, as well. Mr. Rose claims Mr. Platkin helped silence women on a sexualabuse issue. What are his facts, except that the prosecutor declined to

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

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

prosecute? Maybe Mr. Rose will write you another letter explaining how it is possible to threaten someone with a non-disclosure agreement; or how he could know any facts in a case covered by one. Perhaps he got his “information” from his usual sources. Paul L. LaClair Kearny

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Journey’s journey to Newark came with strained vocals Journey or Toto live, but of course had seen live performances on video. When ince 1973, the arena Pineda first joined the band, I rock band Journey just had to go and check him has held steadfast and out. His voice was perfect true. After Steve Perry for it. He emulated Perry left the band due to medical perfectly. issues stalling the band from He even had his long black touring, it would search out hair and moved like Perry to new lead singers. But how do some degree. I was amazed find an amazing soulful tenor the first time I heard him with emotion to replace Perry sing. who had set the bar extremely Pineda joined the band in high? You go through three 2007 and he is much younger singers and the final one, than the other members Filipino singer Arnel Pineda of Journey. The reason I would be the best choice to mention age is that the remain with the band. performance showed a little Oddly enough, they found strain on his voice to me. He him on Youtube doing cover has grown older as well, and songs of his favorite band — to sustain that voice is not an Journey. easy thing to do. I’m not even Not only did Pineda use a sure if Perry could still sound shoehorn to jam into those pitch perfect after all these shoes to perform Journey’s years with his untouchable biggest hits, but they would voice singing night after also continue to release new night. It is not an easy task. music with Pineda on lead I bring this to you as a vocals. vocalist myself and not just Some bands succeed with someone who wanted to see new music when they find a concert of their favorite replacement singers. Journey band. I’m going by what my and Van Halen are the only musical ear heard. Still, the ones that come to mind at band was fabulous, tight as the moment. I can’t think of could possibly be to sound any others off the top of my like studio cuts on albums. head that continued to garner The background vocals success with replacement were pitch perfect and filled singers, however; I’m sure in where Pineda may have there are others. needed some assistance. Their new album When Pineda held elongated “FREEDOM” sparked the notes, they were great but he new tour. At the Prudential sounded a little raspier than Center in Newark, they sure what I had originally heard 12 brought the show to town. years ago in live videos. Originally set as Billy Idol There were some notes he to be the opening act, they couldn’t hit and sometimes switched things up with Toto. had to change the key to make Idol had to back out due to the song work. Along with medical issues. the audience participation I have never seen either and background vocals, I’m By JoAnn Barton

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Journey’s lead singer Arnel Pineda, seen here in a March concert, had strained vocals throughout a recent performance at the Prudential Center, our JoAnn Barton, herself a vocalist, says. It was so strained she says he may need to take rest, despite an ongoing tour.

not sure the average ear could hear it. I’m concerned he may be burning out that beautiful voice and there are many more shows they need to complete on this tour. The show consisted of a 19-song set list. I was a little surprised “Don’t Stop Believin’” wasn’t their encore, but then again; that would be

too easy. They played it third. They played many of their amazing hits and also threw in a song or two from the new album: “The Way We Used To Be.” The original and longestlasting member of the band, Neal Schon, was also phenomenal. The leads in the songs

were extended a little longer, I believe, to help Pineda rest his voice. I couldn’t help seeing that Schon has come to look a lot like Bruce Springsteen. I always thought Schon was a handsome and fantastic guitarist and he didn’t disappoint. The second-longest serving member, Jonathan Cain, on piano/keys, did a great job as well. Returning to the band, drummer Deen Castronova has got to be one of the best singing drummers out there. His voice also sounds eerily similar to Perry’s. I’m surprised he wasn’t chosen as the replacement or doesn’t do more songs. He sang “Mother, Father” and he sounded like Perry. I’ve also seen him perform “Faithfully,” and he sounded like Perry then, as well. Another sound alike was keyboardist Jason Derlatka, who sang “Girl Can’t Help It.” I didn’t go into this show looking to be critical of Pineda. See JOURNEY, Page 19

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Sports & Recreation

SPORTSVIEW with Jim Hague

For NJCU volleyball, it’s all about Kearny

Observer Sports Writer OGSMAR@AOL.COM

Toodleloo, friends, for now Almost 22 years ago, I received a phone call from my late great friend Joseph “Jay” Sticco, a man who I knew very well from his days involved with North Bergen Recreation and my days with the old defunct Hudson Dispatch. My friend Jay called me to ask if I knew of The Observer newspaper. “Yes, Jay, I live in Kearny,” I told him. “I’m aware of The Observer.” Jay told me that The Observer was in the market for a sportswriter. I told him at the time that The Observer didn’t have a regular sports section, that the paper only printed local recreation scores and information that was provided to the paper. “Well, they want to have a regular sports section,” Jay said. “Would you be interested in writing for them?” In a career that has now reached 41 years, with stops at practically every newspaper and news gathering organization known to man, I have never been one to turn down a possible paycheck. I think I even told Jay, “I’d be willing, as long as they pay me.” Jay had set up another freelance gig for me that didn’t end well, because the owner of that paper didn’t want to pay me. Another that Jay was behind was with a Bergen County weekly chain. I went to meet with them and the owner said that he wanted

sports. When I asked the owner what he was looking for, like local features or perhaps an Athlete of the Week feature, the owner said, “Fifty dollars worth. I’m looking for fifty dollars worth of sports.” But this tip from Jay was the real deal. I set up a meeting/interview with the owner/operators of The Observer, namely publisher Lisa Tortoreti Feorenzo and general manager Robert Pezzolla. The meeting was one that changed my life for the positive, because I was quickly hired by The Observer and began a 21-year career with The Observer that unfortunately ends with this week’s edition. I have made the decision to retire in all aspects of my incredible career, which has exceeded my wildest dreams. I’ve covered Super Bowls, World Series, NBA Finals and Stanley Cup Finals. I even covered the old Meadowlands Grand Prix, the Indy Car race that maneuvered through the parking lots of the old Giants Stadium and Brendan Byrne Arena. I also served as the public address announcer for both Rutgers-Newark for 18 years and New Jersey Institute of Technology for 15 years. At one point in my life, a colleague, Mike Moretti, dubbed me as “the hardest working sportswriter in See VIEW, Page 11

Photo by Jim Hague

The New Jersey City University men’s volleyball team features six players who hail from Kearny. Front row, from left, are Mahmoud Serour and Leandro Perez. Back row, from left, are Nate Aguilar, Brandon DaSilva, Aaron Mantilla and Leo Ferrari.

By Jim Hague ogsmar@aol.com

Carlo Edra is a veteran college and professional volleyball coach who has enjoyed two stints as the head coach at nearby New Jersey City University, where he played volleyball from 2004 through 2006, then turned his attention toward coaching the sport. Even though Edra just returned to coach the Gothic Knights two years ago, he is blessed with a roster that is packed with players who hail from Kearny. Incredibly, almost unthinkably, the Gothic Knights’ roster features a total of six players who went to Kearny High School. “It’s absolutely unheard of,” Edra said. “We recently had a Kearny against the rest of the team scrimmage and the Kearny kids almost won. It was really a close match.”

The Gothic Knights are also enjoying an incredible season, posting a 13-6 record including two wins over Kean and a win over Ramapo, the first win over the Roadrunners since 2006. One would think that it would be easy for a coach to have so many players from the same high school program. But Edra said that it was a bit of a struggle to get all the former Kardinals on the same page together. “It was like a crash course of playing the brand of volleyball that I wanted to see played,” Edra said. “At first, we experienced a little bit of growing pains. It was a huge struggle at first. But then the Kearny guys were able to get a hold of things easier.” Edra said that it was a big help that the players all played club volleyball together during the offseason, playing for Sideout Sports based in Fairfield.

“That experience really helped them,” Edra said. “Once you start getting experienced players like that, then the program gets better.” The infiltration of Kearny products at NJCU began with senior setters Leo Ferrari and Aaron Mantilla. Incredibly, the two are best of friends who recently had to deal with an event that could have altered their relationship. Ferrari was always a libero or an outside hitter at Kearny, but approached Edra with a plan when Mantilla was out of commission. “He said to me, ‘You know I can set if you need me,’” Edra said of Ferrari. “He ran the offense and really did a better job. He evolved as our setter and he basically took Aaron’s spot. Leo can play multiple positions, but has been better now as our setter.” See VOLLEYBALL, Page 10

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don DaSilva is another Kearny product. “He’s a monster,” Edra said Continued from Page 9 of DaSilva. “He’s one of the most driven people I know. “I’m sure he understands,” For a while there, he was the Ferrari said of his increased No. 1 middle blocker in the playing time over his best friend. “He’s been completely country. We named him as supportive. It definitely hasn’t a captain last year when he was a sophomore. He leads by hurt our friendship. I think example.” it really helps that we’re all DaSilva believes that the pretty close and sometimes Kearny connection has helped carpool to school together. It’s really been a lot of fun and the Gothic Knights tremendously. very competitive.” “For the most part, we bring Edra likes what Mantilla about that feeling of family,” brings as a reserve. DaSilva said. “There’s a sense “Every time we’ve called of comfortability. We all stick upon him, he’s responded,” together in everything. It’s the Edra said of Mantilla. “He family aspect of sports.” does everything that’s asked DaSilva gives credit to Edra. of him. He’s really embraced “It’s all Carlo,” DaSilva said. his role.” Junior middle blocker Bran- “He really has elevated our

VOLLEYBALL

volleyball knowledge. I think we all have some volleyball talent, but Carlo is the one who put it all together. I think we still have a lot of untapped volleyball talent.” Mahmoud Serour is a sophomore outside hitter and libero. “He’s like our Swiss Army knife,” Edra said of Serour. “He can play three positions at a high level. He had been concentrating at outside hitter, but had to start for us at libero. Mahmoud is a big reason why we’re having such a good season.” Nate Aguilar is a freshman middle blocker with a ton of potential. “It took Nate a little while to get to know the system,” Edra said. “But since he has,

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

he’s been playing at a high level. He’s a guy who literally texts me every night and asks questions. He wants to be very good.” The sixth Kearny player at NJCU is sophomore Leandro Perez, who is working on getting quality playing time. “During one game, we needed a serving specialist and Leandro fit right in,” Edra said. “He’s never let go of that spot. He’s like our sniper. We put him in to serve and he’s able to put the serve wherever he wants to.” Incredibly, the NJCUKearny connection won’t end this season. There is one current member of the Kearny volleyball team who has committed to NJCU and another expressing interest.

“We had others from Kearny who tried out and didn’t make it,” Edra said. “It’s safe to say that Kearny guys are finding themselves at home at NJCU. They have to keep the tradition going and follow in the footsteps of the others. I tell them all the time that NJCU is the Kearny alumni team. I would not be surprised if we get more from Kearny.” “I find it really cool,” DaSilva said. “Six people on the team from my hometown? That’s gratifying. A few years ago, no one knew anything about Kearny volleyball. No one ever played in college. Now, we have six on this team. I know whenever I look at my teammates, I know we have it, because we’re from Kearny.”

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Continued from Page 9 New Jersey.” And at that point, I had about 11 different jobs. But there was only one that mattered in recent years, that being the sportswriter for The Observer, my hometown newspaper. I loved every minute that I covered local sports for this newspaper for the last two decades. I gained an identity in my home area that I could have never dreamed of taking place. Many of the great people I got to meet and know from The Observer’s circulation area never knew me before, but embraced me as their own once I said two words: The Observer. Over the past two decades, I’ve written hundreds of Athlete of the Week features and those great athletes opened up to me and told me their great stories while focusing on their achievements. I’ve covered hundreds of games and events and tried my best to put those events to words so that others could enjoy and celebrate. I’ve had people open up the front doors of their homes and invite me in, simply because of who I was and what I did. I cannot be more thankful for those incredible signs of generosity and faith. I can’t even begin to thank everyone for that kind of Observer hospitality. I watched two outstanding soccer players, namely

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Hugh McDonald of Kearny and Omar Sowe of Harrison, grow into professional soccer performers, getting a chance to play with the local team in Major League Soccer, McDonald with the MetroStars and Sowe with the Red Bulls, although Sowe has been loaned out this season to play for a professional team in Iceland of all places. Speaking of those two towns and schools, how could anyone ever forget the countless times that Kearny faced Harrison in boys’ soccer, some of those matches being held in Red Bull Arena? The buzz, the excitement that came with a showdown between the neighboring rivals can never be duplicated, capped with last fall’s overtime showdown at Red Bull Arena, won by the Kardinals, who then went on to capture the NJSIAA Group IV state title. One of the first big events I covered for The Observer was the 2003 NJSIAA Group IV baseball championship game between Shawnee and Kearny, a game that the Kardinals unfortunately lost. But I will fondly recall the red carpet treatment I received from then-coach Jim Sickinger and his band of Kardinals that included the aforementioned McDonald, who became The Observer’s first-ever Male Athlete of the Year. The Kards lost that day in Toms River against Sean Doolittle of Shawnee, someone who went on to play in the big leagues and make the All-Star team once in each league.

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close its doors forever, not before handing this section a host of controversial and bizarre occurrences to write about. I bid adieu to a host of great people who passed on, some far too early to go, like the Golden Boy of North Arlington, Michael Cammett, Stephanie Miller and Adrian Velazquez, all tragically gone before their 30th birthday was celebrated. Some others passed and are certainly missed, like former Belleville athletic director Karen Fuccello, former Nutley athletic director Angelo Frannicola, former grid coach Ralph Borgess, former Harrison four-sport superstar Kevin Photo by Kim Huaranga Former Observer sportswriter Jim Hague (left) shares a Hoey, former Lyndhurst grid moment at Red Bull Arena with former Harrison super soccer great Tommy Longo, former star Omar Sowe, who is property of the New York Red Bulls and Queen of Peace baseball coach and athletic director Ed Abroon loan to a team in Iceland. maitis, former Queen of Peace I watched a former Kearny to make those stories as entrack coach Ron Mazzola, baseball star named Matt tertaining and informative as former North Arlington coach Smith make it in professional possible. Some of the features and athletic director Bill Ferbaseball, pitching for several were extremely emotional, but guson among others, but none seasons for the now defunct to the credit of the subjects, greater than former Nutley Newark Bears with Hall of they opened up to me freely grid coach Steve DiGregorio, Famer Tim Raines as a manand told their sagas. who bravely fought cancer to ager and Hall of Famer Rickey I watched a local respected return to the coaching sideHenderson as a teammate. Parochial high school, Queen See VIEW, Page 14 Sadly, the place where they of Peace of North Arlington, played, Bears and Eagles Riverfront Stadium, is now history, destroyed to build a commercial complex that never happened. Where the once-majestic stadium stood is now a vacant lot of sand and gravel. Dr. Prakash Dr. Hector I was fortunate to tell J. Doshi Aguilar tales of joy and celebration, DIET DOESN’T MEAN HEALTHY of heartbreak, tragedy and Diet soda has no sugar and no Studies have found that women turmoil. I tried my darnedest

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Lyndhurst head baseball coach Pat Auteri welcomes a handful of returnees, but needs to develop a pitching staff during their spring training trip to Fort Pierce, Florida this week. RIGHT: North Arlington senior Christian Gerace earned AllNJIL honors last season, but moves to catcher this season, replacing Observer Athlete of the Year Tony Alho.

because the Golden Bears need to find pitchers for the coming season. The spring sports sea“Usually, we have son was all set to hold the had three or so pitchers first week of practice, alreturning,” Auteri said. beit a week late this year “But I don’t have that due to new restrictions this year. And for the placed by the New Jersey first time in six years, State Interscholastic we don’t have a Venezia Athletic Association. pitcher.” So with the late start of It’s true. Both Venezia March 8, the local basebrothers, Frankie and ball and softball coaches Adam, have moved on had to scramble a bit in to college. Frankie is at conjunction with the UMass-Lowell, rehabweek’s delay to the first bing after Tommy John pitchers-and-catchers’ surgery to his elbow. workouts. Adam, who graduated Then, just as an added last June, is just beginproblem, Mother Nature ning at Eastern Univerdidn’t exactly cooperate sity in Pennsylvania. It’s with the already-delayed bizarre to see the Golden practice start, dropping Bears’ roster without a a host of frigid temperVenezia brother on it. atures, rain, snow, sleet “We have a lot of new and high winds, forcing faces, especially at pitchall of the local teams into er,” Auteri said. “We’re their respective gyms for very young, but we don’t the beginning of the new use that as an excuse.” season. The good news for the “I was talking to a lot Golden Bears is that they of other coaches and are headed Thursday for when I saw the weather a bit of spring training in reports, I said, ‘Ok, here it the Sunshine State. The goes again,’” said veteran team will head to Fort Lyndhurst head baseball Pierce, Florida for five coach Pat Auteri. “We days and six scrimmagonly had a couple of days es from teams all over to get outside with the the United States and pitchers and catchers.” Canada. Auteri said that he The Golden Bears had was looking forward to to return home a day earthe start of the season By Jim Hague

ogsmar@aol.com

ly from Florida in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic that forced a cancellation of the entire season. They weren’t able to go to Florida last year because of the pandemic, so that made this year’s trip even more important. “We’re glad to be back at it,” Auteri said. “We’re going to go full throttle down there to see what we have.” The Golden Bears welcome back starting shortstop Johnny Lembo, the three-sport senior who is known more in the fall as “Johnny Football.” Senior Vinnie Auteri, the coach’s nephew, also returns. Seniors Ethan Rodriguez and Ben Nowinski are also veteran contributors. Auteri doesn’t know why the NJSIAA changed the start date for official practices. “I don’t understand it,” Auteri said. “It gives us limited time to get ready. With the weather, there’s only so much we can do in the gym. That’s why it was so important for us to get to Florida and have a nice little spring training. It’s going to be like a boot camp. It’s a See SPRING, Page 14

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

HHS drama putting on ‘The Apple Tree’ with help from Paper Mill

he Harrison High School Drama Club returns to the stage this year with its latest production, “The Apple Tree,” with performances April 7-9 at 7:30 p.m. at the high school, 401 Kingsland Ave. Director Colin Shields says he is excited to bring live, school-based theater back to the community. “It’s been a long time since we’ve been able to perform, and the students are incredibly enthusiastic,” he said. The arts have always been an important part of the curriculum in Harrison, he says, and this year, in addition to the club, Shields is teaching classes in theater and set design. Harrison High School among a select group of schools chosen to participate in the Paper Mill Playhouse’s Adopt-aSchool outreach project. Since 1995 the project has offered New Jersey public high schools four-year sequential programming free of charge. These services include field trips to Paper Mill productions, skill building workshops both in school and at the theater and the opportunity to create and perform an original theater piece on the Paper Mill stage. “What an amazing opportunity,” Shields said. “It reinforces what we teach in drama, hard work and dedication pays off.” The HHS Drama Club

Contributed photo

The Harrison High School cast of ‘The Apple Tree’ is seen here during a recent rehearsal. The drama club will put on performances April 7-9 at Harrison HS on Kingsland Avenue.

has also won three Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards for the production of “James and the Giant Peach.” “This is the Tony Awards for high school productions, an incredible accomplishment considering the size of the schools we compete against. We get such valuable and supportive feedback from participating in this program. Our shows continue to improve with their guidance,” Producer Mary Pat Shields said. Originally staged in 1966 and revived in 2006 with Kristen Chenoweth, “The Apple Tree” is a series of three musical playlets with music by Jerry Bock and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. Each act has its own storyline, but all three are tied together by a common theme — someone who believes they want

something, but once they get what they wanted, they realize that it wasn’t what they wanted after all. The club strives every year to improve its programing and for the first time in over a decade, under the musical direction of Danny Conde, will be performing alongside a live orchestra. “This has been a dream of ours for quite some time,” Conde said. “We are very grateful for the support that has made it a reality.” And support has been felt from all over town. “We would be nothing without the support of the Harrison community,” Shields said. “In addition to the Board of Education, the PTSO and our faculty and staff, the local business community keeps us going. It’s their generous support of our ad book and ticket sales that make these

Please note: No obituaries were submitted to The Observer this week. Deadline to submit obituaries is Monday by 10AM

productions possible. “I think the best part of this is being able to expose the lower grades to live theater through our matinees. For some students this is the only opportunity they have to see a musical production. I know it had a huge impact on me when I was growing up, I am so happy to be able to give that same experience to the next generation of theater lovers.” For ticket information, contact Shields at (973) 482-5050 or hhsdramaclub@ harrisonschools.org.

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Wednesday, March 16, 2022

cellance Kevin Canessa and the heart and soul of the paper, the aforementioned Lisa and Bobby, who treated me like family, fussing over me when I was sick and praising me to everyone who would listen. Thank you so very much for the last two decades. I can never repay my gratitude. I’m not going anywhere. I’ll still reside in Kearny. I’ll be around. I’ll still attend games, still offer the glad hands and hugs, still crack the wisecracking jokes, still be me. I’m not dying, just stopping to work. So please, feel free to call, e-mail, stop by if you see

I had a youth basketball coach at St. Paul’s (Greenville) where I grew up in Jersey City named Dick Branagan, a man who I totally adored and idolized. I can’t even begin to describe the relationship I enjoyed with Mr. B. Anyway, Mr. B never once said goodbye to anyone. He didn’t believe in the word. He always thought goodbye was so final. He always said, “Toodleloo,” instead. So I’m taking a page from my old Biddy coach Mr. B. Toodleloo, my avid Observer readers. And thank you from the bottom of my heart. Over and out.

friendships. Each and every school in our circulation area treated Continued from Page 11 me with the utmost respect. The administrators all first lines in 2020, leading his class and helpful. The athbeloved Maroon Raiders to an undefeated season, only to letes just filled with endless enthusiasm and joy that I lose his battle to the hideous disease less than a year later. cannot even fully fathom. I’ve made countless friends, Those relationships are precious and not to be soon too many to list here. But forgotten. the relationships between I wish I could thank you all myself and these coaches and individually, but I just can’t. athletes might have started You know who you are. You out strictly professional, they all have a special place in my evolved into friendships that heart. will long into my old age – Finally, my Observer family, which gets older by each people like graphic artist Micreak of my knees and back. chelle Rybeck, editor-par-exI’m forever grateful for those

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the Durango in front of my house, just to say Hi. I’ll always cherish the last 21-plus years. I wish I could thank my friend Jay Sticco for this marriage that ends today. I’m leaving this space in incredible hands. My friend Jason Bernstein, begins writing here next week. He has an impeccable resume of sports journalistic excellence. He already knows the area and knows a lot of the coaches from his coverage for NJ.com and The Jersey Journal. Jason will definitely continue in the excellent sports coverage you’ve come to expect from The Observer.

it all in outside when we get the chance. But we’ll make it work. Continued from Page 12 After all, it is baseball in the northeast. We have little nerve wracking, to get used to the cold.” but it’s also very excitMarcantuono likes ing.” the makeup of his team, Paul Marcantuono begins his 15th season as which includes senior the head baseball coach Christian Gerace, who made All-NJIL last seaat North Arlington. son, but moves behind “We were able to get the plate this season to outside a little bit last replace Alho. week,” Marcantuono Other key players said. “Our pitchers tried include Oscar Torres to extend their arms a little bit, but we got out- and Eddie Ortiz, who side and it got cold real will both play in the outfield and pitch for quick. It’s really tough on the kids. We wanted the Vikings. Jimmy Pickel is the to have full team tryouts veteran head softball Friday and Saturday, coach at Kearny High but the weather killed School. Pickel didn’t that.” think his team suffered Marcantuono said that he was encouraged from the awful weather last week. by the initial turnout. “It was kind of “We were blessed to frustrating, because have good numbers, we didn’t know what some 34 kids, 12 of we were going to do,” whom are freshmen,” Marcantuono said. “We Pickel said. “I would are young. We graduat- look at the weather, get excited that we had ed some good kids (ingood weather and then cluding Observer Male Athlete of the Year Tony that would change. The Alho). It really is tough first week is always cold and nasty, so we kind of when we get snow, so when we get the oppor- expected it.” But there is good tunity, we have to cram

SPRING

news with the Kardinals. “We’re doing everything again down at the (Gunnell) Oval,” said Pickel, now that the refurbishing of the park is completed. The last few seasons, the Kards had to play at Veterans Park on Belgrove Drive. The Kards have a veteran roster than includes junior pitcher/first baseman Maci Covello, senior centerfielder Carley Natosi and senior catcher Mikalah Franchino. “We’re young, but we have veterans,” Pickel said. Needless to say, spring has sprung on the local high school baseball and softball teams. “As a coach and as a player, you have to get excited for this time of year,” Marcantuono said. “I mean, we lost the entire season in 2020, so we’re fortunate to just be out there and playing baseball. I’m loving this, but I’m always excited for this time of year.”

View the entire issue online! www.TheObserver.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

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

Jarlynn Hyde Broker/Owner

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

Goodbye, my friend His retirement, which will allow him to spend a lot more time with his wife, and college-aged daughter and son, will also be felt by his colleagues. Capt. Timothy Wagner, the department’s public information officer and internal affairs commander, reflected on his friendship and work relationship with the retiring lieutenant. “In John’s career, he served in a diverse array of policing specialties from Vice enforcement to patrol to commanding the traffic bureau, where he ultimately retired,” Wagner says. “John was an asset in every function he performed. In his role in the Traffic Bureau, John developed a reputation as a supervisor who could manage any project and successfully accomplish it. “From his management skills overseeing parades, construction planning, traffic enforcement grants and personnel, to his policing skills investigating serious car crashes and maintaining DWI enforcement standards, Lt. Taylor was a real credit to the KPD and will be missed.”

! ING LIST NEW

You’re only as good as those you surround yourself with Taylor was already in Florida, enjoying life on the beach as it snowed here, when we spoke with him about his retirement last week, but he leaves Traffic in great

NEW LISTING!

hands with Sgt. David Rakowski taking over. In all, he gives credit to his family and colleagues for making life as a cop a great one. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of my wife and children,” he says humbly. “I’ve been very fortunate to have a great career.” That career was solidified having gotten to work with the likes of Officers Pete Jahera, Vic Girdwood, Rich Pawloswki and Patrick “Buzz” Sawyer. And, of course, the PVOs and his “30 extra wives,” as Manley calls them. Those crossing guards.

ACT NTR R CO E D UN

Kearny - $645,000 1 Fam. – Large Colonial Tudor style home - 5 Bdrms - 5 Full baths - Central AC and heat - Hdwd floor - Deck / Patio Large driveway parking

N. Arlington - $683,800 3 Bdrms – 3,5 baths – LR – DR – full finished BSMNT – 2 laundry rooms – attached garage - deck

Kearny - $429,800 1 Fam. – 3 Bdrms – 1.5 baths – LR – DR – KTCHN – Attached garage - backyard

T RAC ONT ER C D N U

! ING LIST NEW

Lyndhurst - $299,000 Condo –2 Bdrms - 1 full baths - LR - DR – KTCHN -1 parking space inside of a parking lot.

NEW PRICE!

Little Egg Harbor $486,838 Lagoon front Raised Ranch – 3 Bdrms – 2,5 Baths – LR/DR, Modern EIK, attached garage – full BSMNT

Belleville - $279,999 1 Family in Duplex – 2BDRMS - LR – DR – KTCHN – Full basement with laundry

Sgt. David Rakowski

Kearny $518,900 2 Fam. – 2 floor – each unit has LR – DR – EIK – full bath, den. Full Unfinished BSMNT – laundry HKPS. Driveway PRKNG 4+ cars. Being sold “AS IS”

NEW LISTING! Kearny - $255,000 Well known establishment for sale. Comes with all contents: liquor, tables+chairs. Kitchen with all equipment, security camera’s, TV’s, new lighting Liquor license included. Great location!

Taylor with crossing guard Barbara McCourt.

Continued from Page 3

NEW LISTING!

Northvale $299,000 Property being sold “AS IS.” Seller has approval for 3 BDRM 2.5 BATH Reno

ACT NTR R CO E D UN

T RAC ONT ER C D N U

4 Bdrms – 3 baths – EIK – porch – Full Unfinished BSMNT – 1 car garage – 3 non-garage parking spots BEING SOLD AS IS.

Kearny - $379,800

Kearny - $439,000 4 Bdrms - 2 baths – LR - DR – modern eat in KTCHN – Attached garage

T RAC ONT ER C UND

Pequannock - $330,000 1 Fam. – 4 Bdrms, LR, EIK, Fam. Rm, 2 Full Baths, Full Unfin Bsmt. Dr. way Parking

Kearny - $549,000 3 Fam. - 5 Bdrms LR’s – DR’s – EIK’s – Unfin. Bsmt - Sep. Utilities

ACT NTR R CO E D UN

T RAC ONT ER C D N U

Belleville - $309,000 1 Fam. – 2 Bdrms –

1 full bath – LR – DR – Kitchen – Full basement with washer and dryer Hookups – backyard – 4 cars parking

Kearny - $429,000 1 Fam. – 3 Bdrms – 2,5 baths – LR – DR – Kitchen – Full Prt finished basement – Laundry - Sun porch – Rear Enclosed Porch – Attic – 3 cars parking – Win/AC

T RAC ONT ER C UND

Kearny - $515,000 2 Fam. - 6 Bdrms 3 Baths – LR’s – Lg. EIK’s – Semi Fin. Bsmt. – Sep. Utilities

Kearny - $599,000 4 Bdrms – 3 Baths Colonial style home Renovation in progress

Little Egg Harbor $206,838 2 Fam. - 2 Bdrms – 2 baths – LR – EIK – Lanai – Attached garage and driveway parking 55+ community

Kearny - $2,600 Great Location and convenient public transportation! 400 sq ft, modern office. Will be availiable on 03/30/22

Kearny - $1,850 Central of town location – 3 room - 720 sq ft - 2nd floor office space located within a professional building.

! TAL REN NEW

Kearny - $2,000 Newly renovated 2nd floor 2 Bdrms apt Lr-Dr-EIK-Full bath – 2 car Parking – Use of the yard

Kearny - $1,500 Newly renovated 3rd floor 1 bdrm apt -1BR – Modern Kitchen – Open layout – Full modern bathroom. Split AC/Heat

N. Arlington - $ 1,750 2Bdrms – LR – large kitchen – Full bath

Newark - $2,700 2nd Floor 3 Bdrms - (Master bedroom with walk -in closet) - 2 full baths - Lr/Dr- Modern Kitchen. Laundry in the unit. Use of yard and balcony. No pets.

Kearny - $3,000 Right side of duplex 6 Bdrms - 1 Full 2 Half Baths, LR, DR, KTCHN

Kearny - $938,680 Mediterranean restaurant - fully equipped kitchen - Dining room with capacity for 60 patrons - bar with liquor licenses - 3 car garage and driveway for 10 plus cars - 4 Bdrms modern updated apartment on the 2nd floor. Center of town.

Call (201) 991-5719 APARTMENT RENTALS AVAILABLE - 1, 2 & 3 Bdrm UNITS Call and Ask About our Reduced Rental Fee!

CIAL MER COM

SE LEA

CIAL MER COM

SE LEA

For more properties, visit our website

www.midrealty.com

CALL FOR A FREE MARKET EVALUATION TODAY! Manley ‘decorated’ Taylor’s vehicle on his last day @ work. He drove all the way home before he understood why people kept honking at him that day!

FALAMOS PORTUGUES • HABLAMOS ESPANOL • PARLE FRANCAIS PARLIAMO ITALIANO • MOWIMY PO POLUSKU • NATAKALEM EL- ARABIA

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

! 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

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Observer Classifieds

17 17

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.

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

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 38W09

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED 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 43W03

Teacher’s Aide To help with children in Day Care Center in Kearny. Please call after 3:00 pm. (201)991-5684 45W03

Help Wanted Experienced Hairdresser needed. Kearny Location (201)674-3995 45W03

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

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

Office Assistant Bilingual office clerk for Driving School setting, must have office experience, knowledge of computers, willing to work 40+ hrs , Saturdays a must. Email resume: Hopelawn@ezwheelsdriving.com

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

45W03

44W03

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

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

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

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. ALLCLASSIFIED 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

Advertise your talents with

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

Call (201) 991-1600

Turn to page 18 for more classified ads!

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

18 18

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

Observer Classifieds

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

PLUMBING & HEATING

CLEANING SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

BELLEVILLE

KEARNY

N.ARLINGTON

JOSEPH V. FERRIERO Plumbing & Heating

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

LACA CORP

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 241 Kearny Avenue at Bergen Avenue 3rd floor Beautiful Sunlit Apartment: 2 BR, LR, DR, Eat-in Kitchen, Large Walk-in Closet, Hardwood Floors New Paint, Light Fixtures, and Appliances. $1,800/month. Heat & Hot Water Included. One month security. 201218-3370 45W03

KEARNY 4 Rooms, H/ HW, cooking gas included. Close to shopping and transportation. No Pets. 1.5 mths security. (201)997-3757 45W03

N.ARLINGTON HARRISON 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

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

NORTH ARLINGTON Remodeled 3 bedrooms, 2 bath apartment available May 1st. LR, formal DR and EIK on first floor. 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths on 2nd floor. Laundry Hook-up in basement. Tenant pays all utilities. No Pets. 42,750/mth plus 1.5 mth security. Credit score 750 or higher. Call Sal (201)280-0600. 45W03

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

ROOM FOR RENT KEARNY Nice and Clean room $600 + 1 mth security. Utilities, mini refrigerator, Cable & internet included. No Kitchen Avl. Now (201) 279-9966 43W03

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

East Newark -Room for N.ARLINGTON Reno- rent for single person. vated 1st floor. 2 beds, Utilities included, avail2 baths, finished base- able now (973)868-7999 ment, laundry, private 43W03 fenced yard, 1 car garage + 2 car driveway. 1 month deposit + 1 month rent. Separate utilities. Available, March 1st. Text for inquiries. (201)889-2709

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

(201)637-1775

44W04

44W06

MASONRY

PEST CONTROL

PEST CONTROL “Five star contractors”

Brick paver specialist All concrete work. Blacktop driveways. Power washing. Satisfaction guaranteed. Free estimates. (973) 979-1167 or (973) 323-5123 44W06

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

Mario Esposito’s Landscaping LLC •Clean-up •Lawn Maintenance •Top soil •Mulch •Spring Clean up Free Estimate (201) 438-3991 43W04

Forever Green Landscape Construction & Design Pavers- Retaining WallsMasonry-LandscapingFence-Decks Text: (201)949 8824 NJForeverGreen.com 44W09

Call 973-932-2092

Licensed and Insured 43W06

RUBBISH REMOVAL

GARAGE FOR RENT KEARNY

Attics, Basements, Yard Cleaning. We Haul or You Can Rent 10-15 Cubic Yard Containers. We Accept Visa/MasterCard (201) 998-1262 39W06

ROOFING/SIDING

(201) 906-2422

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

and windows FREE ESTIMATES (201)719-3074 Licensed & Insured

45W03

Roofing & Siding Free Estimates 201-780-7419 qualitygroupnj.com

Lic#13VH04302300 10W54

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40W06

• No-shows • Headaches • People from other regions of NJ • Scammers

What an Observer

• Llocal readership C&L Tile Repairs

*Regrouting *Recaulking Repair *Repair Floors. Free Est. Fully Ins. (201)257-1373

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

• Local buyers • Access to thousands of people who support our advertisers • Placement in a 134-year-old newspaper (and on www.theobserver.com) and our paper that readers

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

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

• A free ad

are loyal each and every week.

Roofing,

40W06

KEARNY Two adjoining garages for rent at the corner of Kearny & Bergen Avenue Square footage equals the space of three garages. Electric Included. $650.00 month. 201-218-3370

gets you ...

Classified gets you ...

43W06

B&A ROOFING

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

erickconstructionnj.com Free estimates - Fully insured

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

A-1 AFFORDABLE RUBBISH REMOVAL

41W06

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

FENIELLO CONTRACTING LLC.

BRUNO’S PAYLESS ROOFING

to our Classified Section. Why take the risk with Craigslist?

Lic. #13VH02536200 45W06

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and see results right away. HALL FOR RENT

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42W04

45W03

NORTH ARLINGTON 3 BR. Totally renovated. Available April 1st. $2000 Call Carlos (201)9887536 44W03

50W52

44W06

43W03

KEARNY 1ST Floor. 1 BR. LR. DR.EIK $1500 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking. Available April 1st Call (973)418-6621

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

What an ad on Craigslist

45W06

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

Images from West Hudson St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

JOURNEY

Continued from Page 7 He really did great. But since Deen and Derlatka sound so much like Perry, maybe the guys should fill in for a few more songs to save Pineda’s voice. Again, this is just my opinion as a vocalist. The audience loved every moment of the show, but I’m very concerned for Pineda as this tour is just starting and they have a long way to go. Meanwhile, they closed with one of my favorite tunes,

“Separate Ways.” Now, Toto hasn’t performed live in 2 ½ years, but you’d never know it. Vocalist/guitarist Steve Lukather and vocalist Joseph Williams honored Toto by playing and singing their hearts out as the opening act with a 10-song set. Of course, they performed the hits, “Rosanna” and “Africa” but “Georgy, Porgy,” “I Won’t Hold You Back” and “Home of the Brave” were great too. “Hold the Line” and “Rosanna” are my go-to Toto tunes and Williams hit every high note. As much as I love

Billy Idol, I’m glad Toto opened for Journey. It just made more sense to me since the music is somewhat in the same genre. Idol would have brought a different flair to the show — which is not bad, just different. He would have had everyone charged and his bass thumping riffs in his songs would have pounded hearts. But the smooth transition of both bands on this night was an excellent choice. Get your tickets to see this fantastic tour and let me know what you think.

THINK OF THE

POSSIBILITIES. CONSIDER PRINTWORK FOR YOUR BUSINESS!

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

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

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

From the top photo, the St. Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band; next, members of the Kearny and Harrison town councils marched together; state wrestling champion Jimmy Mullen Jr., with Stevie Nash driving and dad Jimmy Sr. sitting shotgun; finally, from left, NA Mayor Daniel H. Pronti, and Councilmembers Mario Karcic Jr., Lynette Cavadas, Allison Sheedy and Donna Bocchino marched in the parade for the first time ever. (Photos by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.)

CH, U M D AN E! R O M MUCH

Call 201.991.1600 for more info.

The Observer | www.theobserver.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

DENTISTRY DEDICATED

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

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