KEARNY’S
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Det. Jordenson “Jordy” Jean is Kearny’s Police Officer of the Year for 2025, following a year where he was involved in several major incidents and collars.
A descendant of Haitian immigrant parents, Jean was raised in the City of Newark. He attended Arts High School, the nation’s first public high school for the visual and performing arts, where he studied instrumental music and developed an early appreciation for discipline, teamwork and performance under pressure.
Following high school, Jean continued his involvement in music through his faith-based commitment at New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Irvington. He later pursued studies in computer engineering and medical assisting, ultimately working in the medical field with Labcorp at its Somerset County testing facility until September 2013. It was then Jean was appointed as a sworn Kearny police officer. He soon after graduated from the Passaic County Police Academy. He began his law enforcement career in the Patrol Division, where he focused on traffic enforcement, DUI inves-
See JORDY, Page 14
Nutley hosting annual blood drive
The Township of Nutley has partnered with Vitalant Blood Services of New Jersey to conduct the annual community mobile blood drive in memory of Nutley resident and business owner Keith Jaret, Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, at the Nutley Public Affairs Building, at 149 Chestnut St., from 3-7 p.m. Keith and Maureen Jaret were Nutley business owners and residents for many years. In February 2018, Keith died from liver disease. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. All safety precautions will be put in place to ensure the health and well-being of all donors and technicians. Please do not donate if you are sick or may have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus. Donors must be aged of 16 to 76, weigh over 110lbs and be in general good health. To schedule an appointment, visit bit.ly/bloodrive12626.
There is an urgent need for O-negative, O-positive and B-negative, but all types may be donated.
Kearny UNICO having fish & chips fundraiser
The Kearny chapter of UNICO spon-
NEWS BRIEFS
sors a fish & chips fundraiser Thursday. March 15, from 6 to 8 p.m., and the American Legion Post, 314 Belgrove Drive, Kearny. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children younger than 10 and must be pre-paid. To purchase tickets, call Celeste Pandolfi at (201) 693-8503.
Annual Four Chaplains Mass upcoming
The annual Four Chaplains Mass takes place Sunday, Feb. 1, at the noon at St. Stephen’s Church, Kearny. The Most Rev. Bismark Chau, recently ordained auxiliary bishop of Newark, will be the celebrant. The public, as always, is invited to attend. For more information, send a note by email to nancykwaller2@ gmail.com.
OLMC hosting bingo night
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel’s Holy Name Society hosts a casino night Saturday, Jan. 24, from 6 to 10 p.m., at the OLMC Parish Center, 146 Copeland Ave., Lyndhurst. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door and are $60 with $250 in play mon -
A BUSINESS ACCOUNT WORTH
ey. Blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, Texas Hold ‘em matches, etc. will be played. Pre-event Special (valid through Jan. 22) — purchase tickets in advance for $100 and receive $750 in play money. Many prizes also offered. Admission includes hot buffet (BYOB). To purchase tickets, be an event sponsor, or donate to the tricky tray, call Mike at (201) 522-4553 or Mark at (201) 803-1717. Tickets are also available at OLMC Rectory during office hours.
Woman’s Club of Arlington’s EMD hosting Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery night
The WCA EMD hosts a Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Night with an Irish twist March 14 at 6 p.m. at the Kearny American Legion Post no. 99 at 314 Belgrove Drive. A buffet dinner, desserts, coffee, tea and soda is included with a $55 ticket. A cash bar will be available. To reserve limited spaces, call Debbie at (201) 970-2435 or Kathy at (201) 341-5145.
Reminder: Street cleaning has resumed in Kearny
A reminder to all Kearny residents — street sweeping resumed in Kearny Monday, Jan. 12. Please remember to plan accordingly.
American Legion Women’s Auxiliary hosting bunco day
The Kearny American Legion’s Women’s Auxiliary hosts a bunco day fundraiser Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. at the Legion hall, 314 Belgrove Drive. The cost is $20 per person. Bring your own snacks. Hot dogs and beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets will be available at the door the day of the event.
Elks hosting blood drive
Kearny-Bellville Elks no. 1050 host a blood drive Saturday, Feb. 7, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 663 Kearny Ave., Kearny. Sign up at www.nybc.org using code 70154. Walk-ins are welcome. Be sure to bring a photo ID on donation day.
Continued on the next page
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Continued from previous page
American Legion fish fry upcoming Kearny American Legion Post No. 99 hosts a fish fry March 29 , from noon to 2 p.m., at the post, 314 Belgrove Drive. The cost is $25 per person. Call (201) 889-8759 to purchase a ticket. Space is limited.
Doo-Wop dinner set for Valentine’s Day in Lyndhurst
A Doo-Wop dinner and dancing at the Lyndhurst Girls’ Association’s Fourth Annual Valentine Celebration is set for Sat. Feb. 14, 2026, at 7 p.m., with the Forever Young Band. Admission, which is $40, includes a pasta dinner, dessert and beverages. BYOB.
There will also be a 50/50. Tables for eight and 10 people may be reserved and all ages invited. This is a fundraiser for the Libbie Lindsay Little House for Lyndhurst Girls Scouts. The event takes place at the Lyndhurst Senior Center, 250 Cleveland Ave., Lyndhurst. For tickets, mail checks, payable to “Lyndhurst Girls’ Association,” to Donna Shinnick, 617 Lake Ave., Lyndhurst, N.J. 07071. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Last year’s show sold out Questions? Call Donna at (201) 906-3010.
Kearny Museum planning art show with submissions from town artists
The Kearny Museum will showcase work from town artists and will also reward favorites with a first, second and third prize. !! Artists may submit now through Feb. 1 with an anticipated showing in the spring. The committee will consider work from Kearny residents in high school and older in any visual medium. If inter-
ested, please refer to the full list of guidelines on the library website at www.kearnylibrary. org/kearnian-art-show
Author Sackerman will discuss new book, ‘Target Hudson’
The Kearny Museum, 318 Kearny Ave., invites residents to join local author and Kearny resident Richard Sackerman for the release of his historical novel, “ Target Hudson,” a story which takes us back to July 30, 1916, on Feb. 4 at 6:30 p.m. A series of explosions rocked the hot summer night on the Hudson River docks on the Manhattan & Jersey City waterfronts — an act of terror not seen before in America. Find out what happens next and how it ties to Kearny history. There is an elevator available.
Kearny UNICO sponsoring bus trip to Wind Creek
The Kearny chapter of UNICO hosts a bus trip to Wind Creek Casino Sunday, Feb. 1. A bus will leave that day at 9 a.m. from the American Legion, 414 Belgrove Drive. The cost is $42 per person, with $25 back in slot credit. Please note: This is not Super Bowl Sunday. For information, call Lou Pandolfi at (201) 693-8504 or send an email to lpandolfi@verizon.net. Checks may also be mailed to Lou at 81 Thoma Ave., Maywood, N.J. 07607.
Community Care Kitchen open every Saturday but first of month
The Community Care Kitchen serves hot sit-down or take-out meals every Saturday but the first Saturday of the month at Vincent United Methodist Church, 100 Vincent Place, Nutley,
from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. People from Vincent, Grace, Holy Trinity, St. Mary’s and Our Lady of Mount Carmel churches partner to provide a meal for those in need, which might be chicken or beef or pasta with sides and vegetables. Everyone in need is welcome to come by the kitchen, including families and seniors. Please bring a bag if you are looking to get a take-out meal. Anyone who would like to make a contribution to help program may contact the Vincent Church office or visit the “Giving” tab at www.vincentumc.org.
Care Pantry available at Vincent Methodist Church
Vincent United Methodist Church, 100 Vincent Place, Nutley, provides a care pantry the first Monday of every month from 4 to 6 p.m., for those with demonstrated need.
At this time, the pantry is low on dish detergent, laundry detergent, household cleaners, paper towels and shampoo and conditioners.
Anyone who would like to donate items or make a monetary contribution may do so
Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Vincent Church Office, or by visiting the “Giving” tab at www.vincentumc.org.
Get help paying for food from NA Health Department
The North Arlington Health Department hosts a presentation for residents of North Arlington and surrounding towns to learn how to apply for and receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits — from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Health Depart-
ment, 10 Beaver Ave., on Feb. 10 and March 10.
Appointments may be made by calling (201) 991-6060, ext. 123.
To make the application quicker, be prepared to present proof of income, proof of address, costs of rent and utilities, child- or adult-care expenses and medical expenses for those 60 and older or for those with a disability. There is no fee to apply. If one is ever asked to pay to apply for such benefits, it is likely a scam.
Lyndhurst PD seeking re-accreditation
team of assessors from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, will examine all aspects of the Lyndhurst Police Department’s policies and procedures, management, operations and support services on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. said.
“Verification by the team that the Lyndhurst Police Department meets the commission’s ‘best practice’ standards is part of a voluntary process to achieve accreditation, a highly prized
recognition of law enforcement professional excellence,” Jarvis said.
As part of this final onsite assessment, employees and members of the general public are invited to provide comments to the assessment team. They may do so by telephone or email. The public may call (201) 939-2900, ext. 2603, on Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, between the hours of 10 and 11 a.m. Email comments may be sent to Captain Paul F. Haggerty at phaggerty@ lyndhurstnjpolice.gov.
Telephone comments are limited to give minutes and
must address the agency’s ability to comply with the NJSACOP standards.
Contact Haggerty at (201) 939-2900, ext. 2603, or phaggerty@ lyndhurstnjpolice.gov for information about the standards.
Anyone wishing to offer written comments about the Lyndhurst Police Department’s ability to comply with the standards for accreditation should send an email to Accreditation Program Director at hdelgado@njsacop.org or write the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police,
Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission at 751 Route 73 N., Suite 12, Marlton, N.J. 08053.
The Lyndhurst Police Department must comply with NJSACOP LEAP standards in order to achieve accredited status.
“Accreditation results in greater accountability within the agency, reduced risk and liability exposure, stronger defense against civil lawsuits, increased community advocacy and more confidence in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and respond to community needs,” Jarvis said.
The accreditation program director for the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police is Harry J. Delgado.
“The assessment team is composed of law enforcement practitioners from similar New Jersey law-enforcement agencies,” Delgado said.
“The assessors will review written materials, interview agency members and visit offices and other places where compliance with the standards can be observed. Once the commission’s assessors complete their review of the agency, they will report to the full commission, which will then decide if the agency is to
PARTIES • GIFT CARDS •
be granted accredited status.” Accreditation is valid for three years, during which time the agency must submit annual reports attesting to their continued compliance with those standards under which it was initially accredited.
The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police through its New Jersey Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission is the legitimate authority and accreditation agency in the state of New Jersey. For more information on the commission, write to New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, 751 Route 73 N., Suite 12, Marlton, N.J. 08053 or send an email to hdelgado@ njsacop.org.
January 21, 2026
2026 Hometown Heroes banner program reopens next week
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Applications for the Kearny Hometown Heroes Banner program will open Jan. 26 to March 6, 2026. Sponsored by the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (KUEZ) and the mayor and Town Council, the program is in partnership with American Legion Post 99, VFW Post 1302 and the West Hudson Marine Corps. The initiative honors and recognizes the men and women who are either military veterans or active military members who live or have previously lived in Kearny.
Banners are available for $110. Sponsors may be families, friends, businesses or organizations. Banners will be displayed from Memorial Day through Veterans Day.
Audio component being added
“We are delighted to announce this year, we are adding an excit-
ing new component to our Hometown Heroes banner project,”
KUEZ coordinator Linda D’Isa said. As part of a partnership with the KUEZ, Kearny Museum and Kearny Library, banner sponsors both past and new this year, will have the opportunity to tell the stories of their honoree. Library director Josh Humphrey and his staff will be interviewing Hometown Heroes sponsors to secure mini-oral histories of the honorees as part of the new
Kearny Hometown Heroes Audio Project.”
“Securing and sharing these stories and memories of our local heroes is important for us both today and for future generations so we understand the human side of military service,” Humphrey said. “These narratives will be recorded, edited and integrated into the Hometown Heroes Google Map so visitors can hear the stories of our veterans as they view the banners along Kearny Avenue.
al Day Parade ceremonies May 21.
Addiitonal details on the banner sponsorship and applications may be found on the Town of Kearny website at www.kearnynj. org.
Printed forms are available at Kearny Town Hall, the KUEZ office (Town Hall Annex, 410 Kearny Ave.) and at each of the UVO Houses along Belgrove Drive. Forms may be downloaded at www.kearnynj.org.
Plans also call for the Hometown Heroes Audio Project to be available on the Town of Kearny and Kearny Library websites.”
For inquiries or further assistance, send an email to KUEZ. nj@gmail.com, or call (973) 860-8990.
Here is the updated template with a new photo
More information will be released closer to the launch of the banners — at the Kearny Memori-
If you are an existing Hometown Heroes banner sponsor and would like to participate in the audio project, contact the Kearny Library at srios@kearnynj.org or (201) 998-2666, ext. 4214.
Estate
HOME PROJECTS THAT BOOST VALUE FOR STAYING OR SELLING
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project that permanently increases value. HVAC replacements or conversions instantly make a home more comfortable, improve utility costs, and provide a long-term return on investment.
We are well versed in how to market each property we represent to its absolute best advantage. Whether your property features the latest in upgrades and innovative smart-home technology or has loads of vintage appeal, you can count on us to be on your side and by your side every step of the way through your real estate transaction. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”
OPINION
COMMENTARY
Kearny’s Brian O’Hara leading Minneapolis PD gracefully
It’s not too often Kearny is in the national spotlight. But many times over the last five+ years, Kearny’s Brian O’Hara has been right there in the middle of it all. And it’s possible you may have even realized it.
O’Hara is a graduate of Kearny High School’s Class of 1997. His law-enforcement career began in 2001 in the Newark Police Department, where he would go on to become the city’s Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Initiatives. Before that, he was the civilian director of the department.
O’Hara is now the chief of the Minneapolis Police Department, a role he first took on following the death of George Floyd. He began the role in November 2022.
O’Hara via ‘60 Minutes’ / CBS
His career has been unblemished — and in a world where often we hear of negativity more than anything else, O’Hara has become a great example of a Kearny kid done good.
In the chief’s case, it does not matter what side of the political spectrum you’re on when it comes to the federal presence in Minneapolis. From a local standpoint, O’Hara has had the tough conversations. He’s been brutally honest every time he stands before TV cameras, along side the city’s mayor, among people who are for and against ICE’s presence.
He has, no doubt, dealt with an immense amount of pressure, now and since he was first hired to rebuild a police department from the ground up after Floyd was killed under the knee of one of the department’s (former and now incarcerated) officers. Every step of the way, he has distinguished himself as one of America’s finest municipal police officers.
If you’re from Kearny, or even nearby, knowing much of what O’Hara’s become started here should be such a great source of pride. If it isn’t, you probably should have stopped reading this long before now.
— Kevin A. Canessa Jr.
Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Robert P.
Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager
Kearny Elks collect blood from 50 donors
The First Presbyterian Church of Arlington and the Kearny-Belleville Elks hosted a blood drive with 50 people donating. Church members made soup and pies for all who donated. The Elks thank Susan Clydesdale Harris and her congregation for all they did to organize and run this event and to all who donated. Seen here giving blood is Chris Brown of the Kearny-Belleville Elks.
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The 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 or 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 under any circumstances.
Though rare, The Observer reserves the right to reject letters for any reason. Every letter must contain the writer’s full, legal name, home town and phone number for verification.
n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday
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Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster
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Kimberley Pezzolla kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sales/Classifieds
January 21, 2026
OFF TO A 10-2 START
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Under head coach Brendan Queenan, the North Arlington girls basketball has undergone a significant turnaround by playing a slowpaced, defensive-centric style of play.
This winter has seen the Vikings play at a speed not seen in years and the result is a 10-2 record, the best start North Arlington has experienced in more than 15 years.
“We are pushing the ball a lot more than we did in the past,” said Queenan of his North Arlington, which is averaging 46.2 points per game, more than eight more per game than over the past three seasons. “We’re just looking to run a lot more than we did in the past because of the personnel we have.”
For North Arlington, that personnel includes a pair of sophomore standouts for a roster that includes three capable point guards and two talented forwards.
Leading the group is sophomore Ava Friere, who has emerged as one of the NJIC’s top forwards. Friere, who led the team in scoring as a freshman at 9.8 points per game, has improved her average to 13.3 this season.
The biggest difference for the 5-foot-10 Friere, has been her increased shooting range. Friere has already made 15 3-pointers after making just one last year. She also already has more assists than last year and is on pace to more than double her steals total.
In the summer she was starting to hit the 17, 18-foot shots and then it just kind of expanded to where she was comfortable hitting 3-point shots,” Queenan said. “She’s a matchup problem because she can play in the post, she can come out on the perimeter. She’s become such a threat. She stretches the defense.”
In particular, Friere’s perimeter shooting has opened up space in the paint for 6-foot-0 junior center Madison Kornas. Now two
years removed from a torn ACL, Kornas is averaging 6.4 points and 8.3 rebounds per game.
“We haven’t seen her best yet,” said Queenan. “I think last year was getting the rust off and now we’re starting to see what she can do. I think at some point, when she’s really there, you’ll see it because she’ll be dominating down low.”
When that does happen, it will bring another offensive dimension to a team that has found itself in the rare position of having three capable point guards, as well as Friere who can handle the ball as well.
Sophomore Alyssa Sousa, has emerged as a do-everything guard in her first year as a starter, averaging 12.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.5 steals and 3.2 assists per game. The 5-foot-6 Sousa has elevated her game in recent weeks, averaging 15.0 points in seven games in January.
“(Having multiple ball handlers) has allowed Alyssa to kind of roam
free and create offense,” Queenan said. “It has freed up Alyssa to get shots.”
Sousa is joined by a pair of veteran guards in seniors Charlize Torres and Lyndsay Gilbert.
The 5-foot-5 Gilbert, a threeyear starter at point guard, has taken advantage of the extra scoring opportunities from playing off the ball more, averaging 7.4 points and 5.3 rebounds per game.
“Lyndsay has gotten better every year and her jump shot is a lot better this year than it has been,” said Queenan. “She’s more confident getting her jump shot on her own as opposed to somebody setting her up. She’s a quiet leader and she plays great defense.”
The 5-foot-5 Torres, a two-year starter, has been a jack-of-alltrades for the Vikings, averaging 8.0 rebounds and 3.1 assists.
Off the bench, junior Amayah Saunders and senior Sophia Poremba both add to the team’s perimeter defense, while sophomore Emily Kornas gives the Vikings a third forward option. Marianna Gutierrez, also a sophomore, gives the Vikings more versatility up front.
Sophomore guards Taylor Todechine, Aylin Ramirez-Rios, Cristal Davis bring additional depth to the roster as do freshmen Sophia Villabos, Angela Riveros and Elissa Malek.
North Arlington enters the midway point first in the NJIC Patriot Division standings with a 5-0 record. The Vikings look to remain undefeated in the division with home games with Bogota on Wednesday and Lodi on Friday.
“She is the heart and soul of this team. Everything you could possibly want from a player, she gives it to you,” Queenan said. “She is the ultimate team player in that she does what’s best for the team. Right now, she’s getting the ball to everybody in good spots, she’s rebounding. She’s usually defending the other’s team’s best post player, she can play perimeter players. She just does it all.”
Photo courtesy of Brendan Queenan
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
For her first two seasons at Kearny, Makayla David’s primary role was to be a shooter. A role she undeniably did well as evidenced by an incredible 154 3-pointers.
But as the dynamic guard entered her junior season, it was time for David to expand her game, most notably as a distributor.
“Makayla has really taken on the role of a point guard this year,” Kearny head coach Jody Hill said. “I know in the past we’ve had other girls who can alleviate that pressure for her and we could put Makayla on the win to be a shooter. But this year, we have the ball in her hands a lot more. Her three-point attempts
are down from what it has been because she’s more of a penetrator and she’s making some great passes now.”
While not quite the same way as before, David’s scoring touch has remained unchanged and on Tuesday against McNair, she be-
LASER PHOTOCOAGULATION
Retinal diseases and conditions are often associated with leaky blood vessels and abnormal fluid accumulation.
Laser photocoagulation is a type of laser eye surgery used to treat retinal conditions, often by destroying abnormal blood vessels. It is also used to treat retinoblastoma (a rare eye cancer), retinal detachment, and retinal tears. Laser photocoagulation can help restore vision lost to some retinal conditions and help prevent further vision loss, while corrective lenses may further improve vision. The procedure can cause a blind spot in the areas where the laser is used. It can also reduce color and night vision, so the benefits of the procedure must outweigh potential risks.
Sometimes failing to treat a retinal condition can lead to permanent blindness.
If your eye doctor says that you need laser photocoagulation, make sure to ask any questions you have regarding the procedure and how to care for your eyes after the procedure. It is important to maintain any follow-up appointments. To schedule an appointment, please call 201-896-0096. We are located at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.
P.S. Laser photocoagulation treats conditions like retinal detachment and tears by creating a permanent scar that stops the progression. www.delucavision.com
came just the 12th girl in Kearny history to score her 1,000th point.
David, who set the milestone with a lefty layup late in the first quarter, is The Observer Co-Athlete of the Week.
David entered the game needing 11 points and wanted to make sure she got those points early.
“There was a little bit of pres-
sure. A thousand points is such a huge milestone and definitely an amazing thing to accomplish,” said David. “I definitely wanted to do it early in the game, definitely before halftime. I didn’t think it’d be that fast, but I’m just glad I got it done early and got it off my shoulders.”
“You could tell she was cool as a cucumber, just ice in her veins
and she went out and played like it was any other game,” Hill said. “She hit 11 in the first quarter pretty quickly and then that was done and said with.”
David went on to finish with 19 points and five assists, making five 3-pointers in the win. She added 15 points in Thursday’s blowout over University Academy Charter, then scored 19 the next day with five assists in a win over Lyndhurst that improved Kearny’s record to 11-1. David has now scored 1,042 points and counting for her career.
For the season, David is averaging 17.8 points, 4.2 assists and 2.8 steals per game, all career-highs.
“I’m very happy I have a bigger role now because the role I have now is definitely preparing me for college basketball,” said David. “Being able to defend at a
DAVID, Page 10
See
Photo courtesy of Jody Hill
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Co-Athlete of the Week:
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
When Johnny Chaname saw more than 25 family members inside the Lyndhurst gym on Saturday, the senior star felt a little extra pressure for the Golden Bears’ game against Dickinson,
Despite some early struggles, Chaname eventually calmed those nerves and reached the milestone that brought all of his family there that day - the 1,000th point of his career.
With a 3-pointer in the third quarter, Chaname became just the fourth boy in Lyndhurst history to score 1,000 career points.
“I was struggling a little bit in the first half,” said Chaname, who entered the game needing
12 points to reach 1,000. “I just had to see the ball go in. I had a couple of layups before, and then I made the big 3-pointer (for the milestone). I think I just settled in because it was a little nerve wracking seeing all my family there and knowing that I had to put on a show for them.”
While it ultimately came in a 63-62 loss with Dickinson scoring on a drive in the final seconds, Chaname indeed put on a show, finishing with a gamehigh 29 points while making seven 3-pointers.
The scoring barrage capped off a week where Chaname’s normally strong shooting was at a different level. He made seven 3-pointers to finish with 32 points and six steals in a win
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Since about 60% of our bodies is water, this imbalance disrupts essential functions like temperature control, digestion, and circulation. Mild dehydration can cause thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, tiredness, headache, dizziness, or constipation. More serious cases may lead to confusion, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, sunken eyes, or even fainting. Causes include not drinking enough water, vomiting, diarrhea, intense exercise, sweating, fever, hot weather, alcohol, caffeine, or certain medications. Babies, older adults, athletes, and people who are sick are most at risk. Treatment starts with slowly sipping water or rehydration
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Johnny Chaname
over Ridgefield on Monday. Two days later, against St. Mary’s of Rutherford, Chaname struck for 26 points and five assists with six made 3-pointers.
Chaname’s hot shooting makes him The Observer Co-Athlete of the Week.
For the season, Chaname is averaging 23.5 points per game, fourth most in Bergen County.
“He’s been on a heater,” Lyndhurst head coach Perrin Mosca said. “He’s always been a good shooter, but just these last couple of games have been crazy. And (the ball’s) coming out of his
Photo courtesy of Marcellino Marra
Dr. Prakash J. Doshi
Dr. Hector Aguilar
DAVID
Continued from Page 8
high level, being able to play on both sides of the floor, defense and offense, being able to score, play good defense on a really good player, being able to go on
CHANAME
Continued from Page 9
hand nice. So it’s looking good.”
Chaname’s shot wasn’t falling early in the season, when he hit just 11 3-pointers in six December games. Instead, he adjusted by attacking the rim with even more aggression, allowing the “slumping” guard to still average
offense, score and being able to assist and get my teammates involved is very important. I’m definitely improving and doing that this season.”
“Her game has gotten a lot better with her ability to distribute the ball to make us a more well-rounded team,” Hill said.
19.5 points in those games.
“That’s why he’s a good scorer because he gets to the rim,”
Mosca said. “He’s probably averaging six to eight free throws a game. That’s how shooters get their points. So when you’re not hitting the outside shot, you’re taking it to the hole and you’re still scoring.”
Those slumps were a thing of the past once the calendar turned to January. Chaname
“What we’re trying to preach is share the ball, hit the open player and more team ball so we’re harder to defend.
“She’s an extremely unselfish player. We always talk about what’s best for the team and she is 100-percent on board to do whatever she feels will make this
began the new year with a career-high eight 3-pointers to finish with 34 points in a loss to undefeated and state-ranked Tenafly. Starting with that game, he has made at least four 3-pointers in six of his last seven contests and has averaged 27.0 points per game.
“The nerves can get to you sometimes, but I just calmed down,” said Chaname. “My coaches helped me throughout.
team win.”
With more than a season-anda-half left in her high school career, there’s a strong possibility that bigger scoring milestones could be in reach for David. But her focus isn’t on those individual goals.
Instead, the focus remains
They kept telling me that I’m going to find (my shot), I’m going to find it. I’m finding it at a pretty good time right now. Hopefully it can extend out to the rest of the season.”
As impressive as Chaname’s stats have been, his road to 1,000 points is an unlikely one. Chaname didn’t play as a freshman and as a sophomore reserve, averaged just 5.0 points per game.
Last year, as a junior, Chan-
getting herself and teammates better.
“My goal is getting better, making my teammates better, getting everyone involved,” David said. “I want to continue to do my thing and just create and do better for myself as well as for my teammates.”
ame enjoyed a breakthrough season, averaging 21.1 points per game.
“When was coming in last year, there’s no way I thought he would get to a thousand points,” Mosca said. “He had a great year last year out of the blue. I knew he was a good scorer because he did have a couple big games as a sophomore, but I didn’t know it was going to be like that. He’s special.”
LPD arrest man who threw lit cigarette butt into mailbox
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Given how many cameras there are in Lyndhurst, it’s probably not the wisest idea to throw a lit cigarette into a mailbox while wearing a loud yellow track suit. But for one Nutley man, that’s precisely what he did — making tracking him down a lot easier, to say the very least, from his yellowness. According to Lyndhurst Police Department Public-Information Officer
Capt. Paul F. Haggerty:
On Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, at 11:22 a.m., Lyndhurst patrol units were dispatched to 436 Valley Brook Ave., the Lyndhurst Branch of the United States Post Office, on report of a man who threw a lit cigarette into a mailbox, starting a fire. The caller and eyewitness described the suspect as wearing a yellow track suit who was seen walking west on Valley Brook Avenue.
Upon police arrival, the fire was extinguished by postal employees, who reported the cigarette and two damaged pieces of mail remained in the mailbox.
Lyndhurst detectives, along with detectives from the Bergen County Prosecutors Office’s Major Crimes Arson Unit, responded to the scene to launch an investigation. While detectives
were on scene, surveillance footage was obtained from a nearby business by a Lyndhurst officer who retraced Kainey’s path with the assistance of surveillance cameras on town hall/ police headquarters. The footage, which depicted the suspect, confirmed he was traveling in the direction that reported, making him easily identifiable from his yellow attire.
Detectives recalled familiarity of the side profile and facial features of Bryan Kainey, 39, of Nutley.
After collaborating with surrounding police departments, Nutley officers confirmed it was Kainey. Armed with this information in hand, detectives confirmed a previous interaction with Kainey in Lyndhurst in 2016.
Detectives continued following Kainey’s path, tracking him into Nutley with additional surveillance footage. Eventually, surveillance footage was retrieved in Nutley, which showed Kainey leaving his residence earlier in the day wearing the unique yellow track suit. Nutley PD made multiple unsuccessful attempts to contact Kainey
POLICE BEAT
at his residence.
A complaint warrant was eventually issued charging Kainey with endangering another person and criminal mischief.
On Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, officers responded to the Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark to apprehend Kainey, who was in custody for an unrelated charge, and they transported him to the Bergen County Jail, Hackensack, on the aforementioned warrant.
“This is another prime example of our agency’s strong partnerships with our community and local businesses, whose cooperation provided us with the necessary surveillance footage to solve another case. I would also like to extend our department’s gratitude to the Nutley Police Department for their assistance in closing this case,” Lyndhurst Police Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. said.
Kainey
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
OBITUARIES
Catherine A. Mascola
Catherine A. Mascola of Harrison died Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, at Clara Maass Medical Center, Belleville.
She was 83.
Funeral services were conducted from the Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, Harrison. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
Those wishing to send condolences or share a fond memory of Catherine may do so by visiting www.mulliganfh.com.
Born in Jersey City and raised in Harrison, Catherine was a resident of Harrison for the past 23 years. She worked for many years as a merchandiser for American Greetings. Catherine was a member of the Harrison-East Newark Elks, the Moose Lodge of Harrison, and a lifelong parishioner of Holy Cross Church in Harrison. In her leisure time, she enjoyed reading James Patterson novels and doing puzzles.
Catherine is survived by her beloved husband, Richard Mascola; her loving children and stepchildren, James Hicks and his wife, Diane, Roseann Ferares and her husband, Peter, Diane Hicks, Rocco Masco -
la, and Andrea Jordan; and her cherished grandchildren, Michelle, Christine, Peter Jr., Brandy, Ryan, Jessie, Kayla, and Autumn. She was also blessed with 10 precious great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her son, Norman Hicks, and her stepdaughter, Kelly Adams.
A devoted parishioner of Holy Cross Church, Catherine’s faith remained a constant throughout her life. May she rest in eternal peace.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Catherine’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, Tenn. 38105 or at www.stjude.org in loving memory of Catherine.
Emmaria A. Galliano
Emmaria A. Galliano of Harrison died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2026. She was 71.
The funeral will be conducted from the Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison, Friday, Jan. 23 at 10:15 a.m. A funeral mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, Harrison, at 11 a.m. Her interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Friends and relatives of Emmaria and her family may visit Thursday, Jan. 22, from 2 to 6 p.m.
To read her complete obituary, send the family a condolence message or share a fond
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memory of Emmaria, visit www.mulliganfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Holy Cross Church in Harrison in care of the funeral home in loving memory of Emmaria.
Italo Fungaroli
Italo Fungaroli, 93, died Jan. 17, 2026 at his home.
Born in Calabritto, Italy, he served in the Italian Army from 1955 to 1957. He moved to the United States in 1957 and lived in Newark and Kearny before moving to North Arlington in 1963.
Italo was a skilled carpenter who had worked for the Roval Lumber and Millwork Company in Kearny for 35 years before retiring in 1988.
He was the beloved husband for 70 years of Lina (nee Campione), the cherished father of Nella Cappelluti and her late husband Joseph (November 2025), Pasquale Fungaroli and his cherished partner Mary Iannaccone and the father-inlaw of the late Angeline Fungaroli (nee DiPopolo), the adored grandfather of Danielle Cappelluti and her fiancé Andy Ravert, Joseph Cappelluti , Isabella Fungaroli, and the dear brother in law of Maria Marcantuono. He will also be greatly missed by his many loving nieces, nephews and relatives in the United States and Italy.
The Funeral will be conducted from the Parow Funeral
Novena to St. Jude
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Please grant my request. Say this prayer 9 times a day. By the 9th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you Saint Jude.
B.S.
obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission.
Home, 185 Ridge Road, North Arlington, on Wednesday, Jan. 21 with a funeral Mass at Queen of Peace Church followed by the entombment in Holy Cross Chapel Mausoleum, North Arlington.
Contributions in memory of Italo may be made to the North Arlington Volunteer Emergency Squad, P.O. Box 7088, North Arlington, N.J. 07031.
Mulligan Funeral Home
331 Cleveland Avenue, Harrison
Arrangements may be made in Spanish, Portuguese or Polish Frank X. Mulligan III, Manager, NJ Lic. 4221 Frank X. Mulligan, Jr. Inactive Private Parking at 10 Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. North 973-481-4333 visit us at: www.mulliganfh.com
WILFRED ARMITAGE & WIGGINS FUNERAL HOME
Mark G. Wiggins, Manager N.J. Lic. #3916
You will feel as if friends of family have taken over when you entrust funeral arrangements to the Wilfred Armitage Funeral Home. The family-owned firm has been in business for 100 years, serving generations in West Hudson and South Bergen. Its beautiful facilities, in a setting reminiscent of a colonial mansion, reflect the graciousness and tact of its understanding personnel.
Wilfred Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Dr. • Kearny, NJ 07032 (201) 991-0657
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Thrills abound at Belleville’s Three Kings celebration
Even as the first vehicle began creeping forward — it was a grey SUV with an eager little girl in the back seat peering out the window — Deputy Mayor Naomy De Peña was ready.
“Have you been good?” she asked with a smile, from her station on the float, her voice rising above the holiday music.
The little girl said “yes,” she sure has, her pigtails nodding up and down.
“OK, then, the Three Kings are going to give you a present,” De Peña said.
Every child in each of the 312 vehicles passing through took home a gift and enjoyed the sights and sounds of Belleville’s Three Kings Day Celebration Tuesday, Jan. 6.
The annual celebration at Belleville High School recognizes a holiday that is especially popular in Spain and Latin American countries, where Dia de las Reyes is commemorated by giving gifts to children and spending time with family.
Residents who had followed the crisscrossing spotlights in the sky to the school were greeted with a festive night filled with bright lights, dancers in dazzling costume, floats, music, glow sticks and, of course, plenty of gifts for the kiddies.
And did we mention there were camels?
The camels, who represent the Three Kings’ journey through the desert with gifts, have become fan-favorites. In fact, many wide-eyed children –and their parents, too – gazed at Ruben, Marvin (the short one) and Elliott as they chewed on hay, blissfully unaware of all the commotion.
In a town where about half the population is Latino, the outdoor Three Kings Day celebration has quickly become one of Belleville’s most enjoyed
events.
“The spirit here each year is wonderful,” said Mayor Michael Melham, while petting Marvin’s black nose. “You can see it on the faces of the children, and you can see it on the faces of the adults, too. Everyone is happy here tonight.”
The celebration has expanded over the past few years to include an appearance from the Befana, an after-Christmas holiday tradition observed in Italy and by Italian Americans here. Often depicted with pockmarked, pasty skin, the character gave out candy to the children as the vehicles winded through the celebration.
The event is a collaboration between the Township of Belleville, the Belleville Board of Education and many organizations and businesses across the township — many of whom donated the new toys that were distributed.
Many other volunteers from the community gathered the previous week at the Belleville Senior Center to wrap the gifts.
As the vehicles coasted to the end of the celebration, volunteers - including Assemblywoman Carmen Morales - passed the gifts through car windows to happy children, enjoying a second round of that Christmas excitement. They got a hand from Gianni Cozzarelli, the 2-year-old son of Councilman Vinny Cozzarelli.
“His favorite part of the whole celebration was helping hand out the gifts, which reminds us that the true spirit behind this event is the joy of giving,” Cozzarelli said.
“It was a beautiful night as always celebrating Belleville’s rich culture with hundreds of families and children,” Councilman Frank Velez III said.
IDEAS WORTH PRINTING
Jean, second from left, is seen here in 2023 after he successfully completed an investigator’s course with the NJ State Police.
Tear
JORDY
Continued from Page 1
tigations, theft-related offenses, and the development of strong investigative and report-writing skills.
In January 2019, Jean was assigned to the Detective Bureau, where his work ethic and investigative aptitude quickly distinguished him among his peers. Under the mentorship of senior detectives and supervisors, he developed into a highly capable investigator, known for his professionalism, persistence and attention to detail.
As a detective, Jean has concentrated his career on the investigation of robbery, burglary, forgery, fraud, aggravated assaults, sex crimes and organized retail theft. His work has earned him high regard at both the local and county levels, including strong professional relationships with the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office and regional retail partners.
Jean is also an active member of the Hudson County Regional SWAT Team, where he serves as an interim assistant team leader, operator, less-lethal operator, non-explosive breacher and FAA-licensed drone pilot.
In 2021, Jean was elected to the Board of Directors for Pathways to Independence in Kearny, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
At the upcoming Kearny PBA Valor Awards Dinner, Jean will be presented with four Unit Citations, two Investigative Service Awards, one Exceptional Duty Medal and two Certificates of Merit, reflecting a year of sustained excellence in criminal investigations and tactical operations.
Jean will receive Unit Citations for his actions during the arrest of a combative eluding suspect armed with a weapon,
for his role in a carjacking investigation and for his investigative contributions to an armed robbery case. He will be awarded an Investigative Service Award for his role in a large-scale organized retail theft investigation involving losses exceeding $100,000 as well as a second Investigative Service Award for identifying and locating suspects responsible for an aggravated assault on a retail employee following a shoplifting incident. Additionally, he will be awarded the Exceptional Duty Medal for his actions during a homicide investigation involving a barricaded suspect. While operating in his capacity as a Hudson County Regional SWAT Team operator, Jean used a fire extinguisher to contain an active fire while officers attempted to take the homicide suspect into custody, demonstrating decisive action under dangerous and rapidly evolving conditions.
Jean’s career reflects the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and commitment to the community he serves.
“I couldn’t be happier with the cop of the year selection,” Police Chief Scott Macfie said. “Jordy exemplifies what it means to be a police officer. His dedication to the community both on and off duty is an example for all of our newer officers.”
Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, meanwhile, was happy to learn of Jean’s selection.
“Jordy Jean has been an exemplary police officer from day one and I’m very pleased he’s the 2025 Kearny Police Officer of the Year,” Doyle said. “He’s always been such a positive force wherever he is. Whether it’s the work he did to help launch our drone program, to his giving back in the Tour de Force, to serving on the board of Pathways to Independence and so much more, his positive presence in Kearny has always been something I’ve admired. I’m very pleased with this great selection by the Valor Committee.”
Man wanted in Irvington shooting collared by Kearny PD
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
The Kearny Police Department has arrested a man they say was wanted for a shooting in Irvington, Det. Sgt. Mike Gontarczuk, the department’s public-information officer, said.
According to Gontarczuk:
On Jan. 14, 2026, Kearny Police Department units were alerted to a BMW entering the Town of Kearny, that had been flagged as a felony vehicle in NCIC for its involvement in a shooting in Irvington. Lt. Jay Ward, Dets. Anthony Nunez and Christpher Montes and Officers Jose Castillo and John Fearon found the vehicle parked near Passaic Avenue and established surveillance.
Around then, they received digital photos of Travis W. Brown, 33, of Irvington, for whom an Irvington arrest warrant was active, in connection with the shooting.
Officers then intercepted three people near the vehicle,
including Brown.
During the arrest, Officer Fearon recovered a loaded 9mm handgun from Brown’s jacket pocket. Further investigation revealed the firearm had been reported stolen. Det. Montes also recovered a knife from a second individual, identified as Daijon L. Williams, who was found to have an outstanding municipal warrant. The third person was released from the scene without charges.
Brown was charged with unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of a weapon for an
Apedestrian has died as a result of injuries sustained from a motor vehicle collision that occurred in Harrison Thursday, January 8, 2026 Hudson County Prosecutor Wayne Mello said..
That day, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office was
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
notified of two pedestrians struck on Woodland Drive in West Hudson Park. Responding officers located two male victims, who were transported to University Hospital in Newark with serious injuries.
The driver and striking vehicle remained at the scene.
Gary Gross, 58, of Kearny, was pronounced dead on
unlawful purpose, receiving stolen property and possession of a weapon by a prohibited person.
Williams, 26, of Newark, was charged with possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and processed for his outstanding warrant.
The Kearny Police Department extends its thanks to the Irvington Police Department, whose detectives responded to the scene to assist with the investigation. Both Brown and Williams were processed at Kearny Police Headquarters and subsequently transported to the Hudson County Correctional Facility.
“I am proud of the diligent work and coordination displayed by our officers and detectives in safely resolving this high-risk situation,” Chief Scott Macfie said. “Their efforts have removed another illegal firearm from the streets and demonstrate our department’s commitment to intercepting dangerous criminals and preventing violence in Kearny.”
Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026.
The second victim, a 48-year-old man from Kearny, remains hospitalized in stable condition.
This matter is actively being investigated by the Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit and the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office.
-Rami Alrabaa
