e-Newspaper for Jan. 28, 2026

At North Arlington reorganization, Pronti

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

Redevelopment, park enhancements and the construction of a new Senior & Veterans Housing Complex took center stage at the Borough of North Arlington’s 2026 Reorganization meeting earlier this month.

The meeting, at North Arlington High School, kicked off with the administration of the Oath of Office for Councilmembers Kirk Del Russo and Amanda DeCicco, who were re-elected in November. Del Russo has served on the Borough Council since 2019; DeCicco was appointed last year to fill an unexpired term before winning the seat in November.

“I would like to congratulate Councilman Del Russo and Councilwoman DeCicco on being re-elected to the Borough Council,” Borough Administrator Stephen Lo Iacono said. “They’ve been a very important part of the great things we have been able to accomplish. As we move forward into 2026, I know they will play critical roles in our future success.”

Mayor Daniel H. Pronti highlighted some of the borough’s 2025 accomplishments, including fiscal control, finalizing the purchase

See NA, Page 15

Following 6-month Iraq deployment, Nutley Mayor John Kelly returns home

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

Nutley Mayor John V. Kelly III has safely returned to New Jersey following his recent deployment to Iraq.

Kelly, the youngest mayor elected in Nutley history, is an active service member, deployed to Iraq in August 2025. For six months, he served as the unit commander’s legal adviser for the Army National Guard.

Kelly had served two deployments

previously, one in the Middle East, and one in Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria.

“I would like to thank the entire community for their prayers and patience during my deployment, and the many care packages sent to me and to my

unit,” Kelly said. “I also want to thank Commissioners Petracco, Scarpelli, Tucci and Deputy Mayor Evans and their staff for their support during this time. I want to especially thank the

See KELLY, Page 15

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

The North Arlington Police Department’s familiarity with residents paid off as five people were arrested — including one from North Arlington — leading to three firearms, hollow-point bullets

and a high-capacity magazine being taken off the streets, Lt. David Hudak, the North Arlington PD’s public-information officer, said.

According to Hudak:

On Jan. 20, 2026, at approximately 8 p.m., the North Arlington Police Department

POLICE BEAT

conducted a high-risk motor vehicle stop in the area of Prospect Avenue and Hedden Terrace as part of a proactive enforcement operation.

The stop was connected to law-enforcement information shared by a surrounding agency related to the investigation of an Audi Q5 theft that occurred the previous evening.

During that investigation, surveillance footage was obtained identifying the suspect vehicle used during the commission of the theft. The vehicle was determined to be a black Honda Insight.

Based on the circumstances of that investigation, a felony stop and hold was issued for the suspect vehicle and disseminated to surrounding law enforcement agencies.

18, of Jersey City. The juvenile’s name was not released, per protocol.

North Arlington officers recognized the suspect vehicle and, based on prior law enforcement interactions, were able to positively identify the individual observed operating the vehicle during the Audi Q5 theft. They were on the lookout for the suspect vehicle and later observed it traveling in the borough.

A motor-vehicle stop was conducted, during which officers confirmed the previously identified suspect was operating the vehicle. Four additional occupants were inside the vehicle. The Kearny Police Department responded to the scene to assist following the stop.

During the stop, officers recovered three loaded firearms, with some containing hollow-point bullets.

One of the recovered firearms was confirmed to have been reported stolen in North Carolina and another was found to be equipped with a large-capacity magazine.

All five occupants of the vehicle — four adults and one juvenile — were arrested.

The adult arrestees are Drequan Moore, 23, of Jersey City; Amiyah Mumford-Perez, 21, of North Arlington, who was operating the vehicle; Musa Mumford, 18, of Jersey City; and Marcus Brown Jr.,

As a result of the investigation, charges include unlawful possession of firearms, possession of weapons for an unlawful purpose, receiving stolen property, possession of a large-capacity magazine, possession of hollow-point ammunition, certain persons not to have weapons, hindering apprehension and possession of burglary tools.

The arrested individuals were transported and incarcerated at the Bergen County Jail, Hackensack.

“This incident shows the importance of proactive patrol and officer familiarity. Our officers recognized the vehicle, acted quickly, and were able to take armed individuals and three dangerous firearms off the streets before further crimes could occur in North Arlington,” Hudak said.

The department’s chief offered some strong words, as well, following the arrest.

“If you bring criminal activity into North Arlington, you will be identified, arrested and charged. Our message is clear: this community will not tolerate it,” Chief Michael Horton said.

Observer Editor Kevin A. Canessa Jr. may be reached by email at kc@theobserver. com. Reach him on Facebook and Twitter @kevincanessa.

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

NEWS BRIEFS

Kearny UNICO having fish & chips fundraiser

The Kearny chapter of UNICO sponsors 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 Mass 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.

WCA 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.

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.

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) 8898759 to purchase a ticket. Space is limited.

Doo-Wop dinner & dancing 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 interested, please refer to the full list of guidelines on the library website at www.kearnylibrary. org/kearnian-art-show.

Author Richard 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.

Community Care Kitchen takes place every Saturday but first of month

The Community Care Kitchen serves hot sit-down or takeout 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 church-

es 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 takeout 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.

Salvation Army of Kearny hosting open gyms

The Salvation Army of great-

See BRIEFS, Page 14

McKnight, Ruiz bill will create better conditions for survivors of domestic abuse who are ‘in the system’

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

Just before leaving office, former Gov. Philip D. Murphy signed two pieces of legislation sponsored by Sens. M. Angela V. McKnight and Teresa Ruiz aimed at ensuring survivors of domestic violence and abuse are treated with greater fairness and understanding within New Jersey’s criminal justice system.

The new laws recognize survivors of physical, sexual or psychological abuse may become involved in the justice system as a direct result of trauma or efforts to escape violence. Together, the legislation provides pathways for expungement of abuse-related convictions, establishes a new mitigating factor in sentencing, allows for reduced sentences in appropriate cases and creates a process for eligible individuals to seek resentencing.

The first bill, S-4871, allows individuals who were victims of domestic violence or substantial abuse to petition the Superior Court to expunge certain convictions, findings of guilt or juvenile adjudications if the abuse substantially contributed to the offense.

Eligible individuals may apply for expungement after fulfilling the requirements of their most recent case, including completing incarceration, probation or parole or paying court-ordered fines. Eligible cases may also include older

cases, regardless of where they were adjudicated.

The second bill, S-4870, establishes a new mitigating factor in sentencing for defendants who were victims of physical, sexual or psychological abuse when a court finds the abuse contributed to the offense. It also sets reduced sentencing ranges for eligible offenses and creates a process for certain individuals already incarcerated to apply for resentencing if they meet specific criteria, including having exhausted appeals and demonstrating abuse was a contributing factor in their conviction.

“No one should be punished more harshly because the justice system failed to recognize the trauma they were trying to survive,” McKnight, D-Hudson, said. “By acknowledging how domestic violence and abuse can drive people into the justice system, these bills restore fairness, offer survivors a path to stability and help ensure accountability without perpetuating harm.”

At a resentencing hearing under the law, courts are required to determine whether the defendant was a victim of abuse, whether that abuse contributed to the offense and whether a reduced sentence is warranted, with credit given for time already served.

OPINION

COMMENTARY

40 years ago this week, America stood still

The day Jan. 28, 1986, has always remained on my mind and heart — it was the day the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded in the air at Cape Canaveral in Florida. Seven astronauts lost their lives — Dick Scobee, Ron McNair, Ellison Onizuka, Mike Smith, Judy Resnik, Greg Jarvis and Christa McAuliffe.

That day, I was a sixth-grader in Dolores Raimondo’s class at Schuyler School, Kearny. And occasionally, I would go home for lunch, and it just so happened I did that day.

I remember turning on the television and watching the replays over and over and over. It was one of the first times I realized how much of a news person I would become.

Of course, because the coverage was as intense as it was, I didn’t want to go back to school that day. I called my mother at work and she said I could stay at home to watch the coverage.

But what still stands out about that day, four decades later, was how NASA was really never able to say whether any of the astronauts survived the explosion and/ or whether anyone was alive and alert during the fall back to the Atlantic Ocean.

Reports said emergency oxygen masks were activated — so it is absolutely possible some did not die after the explosion, but instead were fully alert as they sped downward to what might have been their cause of death — the impossible-tosurvive impact with the ocean.

That day, seven ordinary public servants became heroes whose names should never be forgotten. Many of the late astronauts have had schools named after them, with the closest being the Dr. Ronald McNair Academic High School, Jersey City.

They knew going up to space carried with it immense risks and they did it anyway. All these years later, that tragedy served as an early reminder to a then 11-year-old just how fragile life is.

I write about the ordeal today not to be morbid, but because for many, Jan. 28 is just an ordinary day. But there was nothing ordinary about Jan. 28 in 1986. Understandably, like so many other things, with the passage of time, people tend to forget. I wanted to be sure, instead, the 40th anniversary of Challenger’s demise, it wasn’t just a forgotten day. Instead, it was a day seven people become heroes — they should never, ever be forgotten for making the ultimate sacrifices.

May they all rest in peace.

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

Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising

— Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

Robert P. Pezzolla

gm@theobserver.com General Manager

Kearny Elks launch Antlers chapter

Kearny-Belleville Elks No. 1050 recently welcomed Antler Lodge No. 46. Incoming Antlers are children 12 to 20 who want to do charitable work. The institution ceremony include ad many dignitaries as NJ Elks State Association and Past Grand Exalted Ruler Malcolm J. McPherson Jr., of Lyndhurst Elks lodge No. 1505 and NJ Elks State Association State President William W. Dow Jr., of KearnyBelleville Elks lodge No. 1050 and Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle who presented a proclamation. The chapter’s president is John Corbett III. Any Antlers or parents looking to find out more information on how to join this group, send an email to Kearny1050@gmail.com.

THE OBSERVER’S LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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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n Help Wanted: Noon, Monday — all ads must be sent to classified@theobserver.com.

Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster

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Kimberley Pezzolla kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sales/Classifieds

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

THREE COUNTY CHAMPS

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

It was a night on the mats that Nutley’s Izzy Timonera won’t soon forget.

During Thursday’s Essex County Girls Wrestling Championships, Timonera became Nutley’s all-time wins leader in girls wrestling and became a three-time County champion at 100 pounds.

Nutley left West Orange’s Codey Arena, having crowned three county champions.

Joining Timonera with a title was Michelle Gavilanes, who repeated as the 145 pound champion. On the boys side, junior Aidan Rotbaum won his elusive county title at 165 pounds after finishing second and fourth the previous two years at 150.

The Essex County Championships served as the latest milestone for Timonera in her recovery from an elbow injury that denied her the opportunity to compete in the state tournament last March.

Timonera, who returned just in time for the start of her senior season, improved to 19-4 on the year. After earning a first round bye, Timonera earned her spot in the record books when she pinned Belleville’s Ashly Sarceno in just 15 seconds in the semifinals.

In the final, Timonera endured probably the most awkward win of her career when

she defeated her younger sister Janizza Timonera by pin at 2:40 to give her 81 career wins.

“Izzy made a goal to make it to Atlantic City. She’s had a great career, but she’s never made it to Atlantic City,” head coach Mike DiPiano said. “She’s focused and dialed in on that right now. She’s wrestling really well. The goal is to make it to Atlantic City and be on the medal stand. She believes she has a chance and we believe she has a chance.”

Janizza Timonera, a freshman, made the final after defeating Bloomfield’s Kasey Salgado by decision in the first round and pinning West Orange’s Alana Everett in just 28 seconds in the semifinals.

Gavilanes, a sophomore, met little resistance on Thursday, winning all three matches by pin in the first period.

Gavilanes (19-3) needed just 51 seconds to pin West Orange’s Jean Primm in the first round, then defeated Airyon Mitchell of Columbia in 1:22. In the final, Gavilanes pinned Freddie Murray of Newark Collegiate in 1:19.

“She’s just a solid, solid wrestler,” said DiPiano. “There’s really nobody in the county at her weight right now (that can compete with her). But that doesn’t take away from the accomplishment. She’s wrestling tough.”

Also medaling for Nutley were Gracelyn Archuleta (4th, 107 pounds), Peyton Rotbaum (5th, 126 pounds) Laila Marsala (6th, 120 pounds).

Belleville had four medal winners, led by Sarceno (4th, 100 pounds) and Tiffany Guanoquiza Restrepo (4th, 126 pounds). Jessica Calle (5th, 120 pounds) and Isabella Chirino (6th, 107 pounds) also medalled on the day.

Bloomfield won the team title, crowning four individual champions in Adrienne Rodriguez (107), Natalie Lopez (120), Lesly Sanchez (185) and Saharia Quamina, a three-time champion at 235.

Rotbaum, the top seed at 165 pounds, earned a first round bye, then quickly punched his ticket into the semifinals with first period pins over Kyle Lam of Livingston and Micah Holt-Virgil of Bloomfield. In the semifinals, Rotbaum pinned George Dakar of Cedar Grove in 4:21. Rotbaum took home the championship with a 13-3 major decision victory over St. Benedict’s Finn McKeon. It was the 20th win of the season for Rotbaum (20-4), including 12 consecutive matches.

“I meant a lot to him to be on that stage to be at the center mat. It’s another one of his goals,” DiPiano said. “He’s starting to hit his stride after his football injury. He’s really getting healthy right now, gotten a

little lighter and it’s absolutely showing in his wrestling.”

Nutley’s Christopher Cifelli medalled for the third year in a row when he placed second at 138 pounds. The Maroon Raiders senior won three consecutive matches before losing in the final to Caldwell’s Solomon Soriente.

Nutley, which finished fifth in the team standings, sent nine wrestlers to the medal podium. Joining Rotbaum and Cifelli were Evan Blanchard (3rd, 120 pounds), Nolan Brewer (3rd, 285 pounds), Patrick Chell (4th, 132 pounds), Valen Delaney (5th, 106 pounds), Luke Finkelstein (7/8th, 113 pounds), Adam Youseff (7/8th, 126 pounds) and Michael Koster (7/8th, 144 pounds).

Belleville had three medalists as Jirrard Ferrer finished third at 106 pounds, Lorenzo Tiankee took fifth at 126 pounds and Raileigh Fernandez placed 7/8th at 157 pounds.

Bloomfield had seven medal winners, headlined by a trio of fourth place finishers in Jayden Morales (175), Terrence Taylor (215) and Ayden Fox (285).

On Jan. 18, at the Bergen County George Jockish Wrestling Tournament, Lyndhurst/North Arlington’s Dean Silva finished fifth at 190 pounds. Louis DellaVolpe, a Nutley native now at Don Bosco Prep, took fifth at 165 pounds.

Belleville bowling wins Essex title, McFarlane takes individual crown

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Days after winning a pair of Essex County bowling titles Rykel McFarlane described the events of this past week as “unreal.”

While both might have been unexpected, it doesn’t change the fact that Belleville’s girls bowling team had arguably the biggest 48-hour stretch in program history last week.

On Tuesday, the Buccaneers earned their first county title, in any sport in more than a decade when Belleville took first in the Essex County Girls Bowling Team Tournament with surprising ease at Hanover Lanes in East Hanover.

Then, two days later McFarlane became what is believed to be just the second girls individual champion in program history when the senior won the Essex County Girls Bowling Individual Tournament.

“It feels very crazy. It doesn’t feel real,” said McFarlane. “I could never imagine this happening.”

Belleville had been playing well heading into Tuesday’s team tournament, going 7-3 in duals. Once the tournament started, everything clearly started to click up and down the lineup as the Bucs built a huge lead after rolling a 712 in the first game and never looked back.

In the end, Belleville finished with an overall team score of

2,086 as it easily outdistanced runner-up Irvington by an eye-opening 382 pins.

“(On any given day, anyone

could be the star), it doesn’t matter,” head coach Ryan Sheridan said. That’s just the best part of it. They all pick up each other. They all fill in the spots and work together. That’s what I couldn’t ask for a better group of five solid

girls.”

Senior Roslyn Almodovar, best known for her record-breaking career on the soccer field, had the individual high series on the day with a 511. McFarlane was fourth with 445 and sophomore Zoe Arroyabe took 11th with 403 to all qualify for Thursday’s individual tournament.

Senior Daisy Rodas and sophomore Emily Anuscavage rounded out the quintet, all of which are rolling an average of 121 or better, a sign of the team’s depth this season.

While Alomodovar had the high series on Tuesday and Arroyabe has the highest season average at the moment at 145.27, Sheridan considers McFarlane his most consistent bowler and See BOWLING, Page 10

Premier Car e TALK S

E. coli, short for Escherichia coli, is a bacteria usually found in the intestines of people and animals. Most strains are harmless and help with digestion; however, some, like Shiga toxin producing E. coli, or STEC, can cause illness if swallowed via contaminated food or water. Infection leads to symptoms such as diarrhea, which may be watery or bloody, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes mild fever. Symptoms usually appear within a few days and often improve in a week. Most cases get better with rest and plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Antibiotics and antidiarrheal drugs are not usually recommended because they can make things worse.

Hospital care may be needed in severe infections, especially those causing kidney problems. E. coli infections can cause everything from brief bouts of diarrhea to life-threatening illness. Most people recover on their own or with antibiotic treatment. To schedule an appointment, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-998-7474. We are available at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B, where walk-in patients are always welcome 7 days a week.

P.S. Preventing E. coli infections relies on thoroughly cooking meat; washing hands; and keeping fruits, vegetables, and utensils clean.

Email any questions or comments to: premiercare@gmail.com

Premier Care Associates of West Hudson is available on a walk-in

By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

After having the best view in the gym of Angel Castellano basketball exploits for the past two and a half years, you would think that there’s nothing left that could surprise Harrison head coach Jose Camano when it comes to his star guard.

On Wednesday at Secaucus, Castellano found a way to one-up himself.

Needing 11 points to reach 1,000 points for his career, Castellano hit that goal in the blink of an eye. The senior made his first four shots of the night - all 3-pointers - to reach the milestone just three minutes into the game.

Castellano hit the milestone so quickly, he admitted that some of his family members were unable to get to Secaucus in time to witness the moment in person.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen

anything like that,” said Camano. “His first four shots were just so smooth that it was swish, swish, swish, swish. It happened so fast that I was just as shocked as everybody else.”

“It was really cool getting the four threes in a row,” Castellano said. “I was surprised myself. I didn’t think I was going to hit four in a row.”

Castellano went on to finish with 32 points and five made 3-pointers in Harrison’s overtime loss to Secaucus. It was Castellano’s fourth 30-plus point game in a span of just 15 days and his third consecutive game with five 3-pointers.

For his torrid offensive production and for becoming just the 11th Harrison boy to score 1,000 points, Castellano is The Observer Athlete of the Week.

This season, Castellano leads both the NJIC and Hudson County in scoring with an average of

junior to his current average of 24.4. Camano credits the leap to the development of Castellano’s all-around game as he’s evolved into more than just a shooter on the court.

24.4 points per game.

“He doesn’t really shock me anymore because every time he’s on the court, I know I’m going to get 25 points from him no matter what,” Camano said. “He’s an unbelievable kid.”

Castellano has seen his scoring production explode from 13.6 points per game as a sophomore to 17.1 per game last season as a

“He developed how to create a shot off the dribble, which helps him a lot.,” Camano said. “He didn’t have that his sophomore, junior year. He was more of a spot shooter last year. He started getting a little bit better off the dribble, but this year, coming into his senior year, he is different. Once he puts it on the ground, it’s one dribble, pull up. He doesn’t change his shot, he’s just gotten quicker.”

“I think it’s really going to help me because I feel like people already know that I’m a shooter,” said Castellano, who trained extensively in Union City through-

out the offseason. “If I improve all of my game, I think it will make it way easier to score.”

With 1,021 points and counting, Castellano, at his current place, could potentially climb all the way into the top five all-time for scoring at Harrison.

Where Castellano’s basketball future lies after high school is still yet to be decided. While his player’s college recruitment is still up in the air, Camano knows that Castellano will do what it takes to continue to develop in preparation for that next level.

“He’s a kid who wants to get to the highest point in basketball you could possibly get to,” Camano said. “He knows that there could be flaws in his game, but he wants to keep getting better and better. As a coach, you want to get that kid where he deserves to get to.”

Some of the most common eye conditions are inherited or have a genetic component. The most common eye conditions are refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism), caused by irregular eye shape, which research has shown is often inherited. If one of your parents has myopia (nearsightedness), you have a 20% chance of developing the condition, which jumps to over 30% if both parents have it. For people with astigmatism, research shows a genetic component 50 to 60% of the time, and the condition is often coupled with hyperopia (farsightedness), which is also influenced by genes. Color blindness has a heavy genetic component, with males being affected more fre-

quently because it only requires the genetic mutation from one parent/chromosome. A comprehensive eye exam with your eye doctor doesn’t just determine if you need eyeglasses or contact lenses. Your doctor also carefully looks at all aspects of your eye health, which can help provide a clearer picture of your overall health. If it’s been awhile since you’ve had an eye exam, please call 201-896-0096. You’ll find our office at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.

P.S. Glaucoma and certain inherited retinal conditions are commonly inherited eye diseases that affect genders equally.

BOWLING

Continued from Page 8

has her in the anchor spot.

On Thursday, McFarlane smashed that average with the strongest overall day of bowling in her high school career. During the preliminary rounds, McFarlane set a new personal best for a high series when she rolled a 502, highlighted by the second game where she rolled a 192.

McFarlane’s performance gave her the top seed for the five-bowler step-ladder tournament and with it, an automatic bye all the way to the final.

“Thursday was when Rykel completely came out of her shell,” Sheridan said. “The second game was when she started

getting zoned in and even the other coaches came up to and were like, wow, she’s locked in.”

“At first I was nervous. I had to make sure I was calm and collected, not overexcited,” said McFarlane. “I made sure I was focused.”

McFarlane had to sit and wait for more than an hour until her final against West Orange’s Nina Alvarez.

While Alvarez is considered one of the top bowlers in the state, McFarlane was able to gain an early lead thanks to a stretch of four consecutive strikes. Alvarez remained in striking distance the entire time, but ultimately, McFarlane never relinquished the lead and ended up winning, 191-187.

“When I realized I won, I was very excited, ecstatic,” McFar-

lane said. “There were no words to describe how I felt in the moment. It just didn’t feel real.”

Also on Thursday, Nutley’s Brooklynn Robinson rolled a 478 in the preliminary round to earn the third seed in the step-ladder tournament, ultimately finishing fourth.

On the boys side, Nutley had two bowlers among the five who qualified for the step-ladder tournament as Ben Johnson earned the second seed after a preliminary round series of 675 and Jackson Veneziano took fifth with a 651. Johnson went on to finish in third and Veneziano claimed third.

Led by Johnson and Veneziano, Nutley finished second in the 18-team field to Seton Hall Prep in Tuesday’s team tournament with a score of 2,906.

Elks sponsor mini-golf tourney

NCD Elks SCC hosted a mini-golf tournament

West Orange. Seen here are, from

golf

Brown, NJSEA President William Dow Jr. and golfer Jose

who shot a hole in one. Each golfer was treated to a pizza lunch, and a $25.00 gift card to Five Below. An ad journal for the event raised $890.

receive a written response from us within 24 hours, please call our office to confirm. Email:

Take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:1016*, application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, New Jersey, to receive title papers authorizing and the issuance of a New Jersey Certification of ownership for Make HONDA PILOT, Year 2008, VIN/ Hull Identification Number 5 FNYF18798B047078. Objections, if any, should be made in writing, immediately in writing to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O.Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017. ($18.00 Online 01/14/26 Newspaper 01/21/26, 01/28/26)

MICHELLE M. SMITH Clerk of the Superior Court ($383.15)

The regular meeting of the Kearny Planning Board is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4th, 2026, at 7:30 pm in the Council Chambers at 402 Kearny Avenue, Kearny, NJ 07032. The extent of the agenda is as follows: #607 129 Sanford Avenue LLC 129 Sanford Avenue Preliminary and Final Major Site and Subdivision Plans and variance applications. Election of Officers: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Board Attorney, Board Secretary, and re-appointed/ newly appointed Board members.

Superior Court of New Jersey Chancery Division Hudson County Docket Number: F-013449-25 NOTICE TO ABSENT DEFENDANTS (L.S.) STATE OF NEW JERSEY TO: Montego Group LLC & Mina Meleka YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED to serve upon Friedman Vartolo LLP, Attorneys for Plaintiff, whose address is 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160, Garden City, NY 11530, an answer to the Complaint in Foreclosure, Amended Complaint and Amendment(s) and Order(s), if any, filed in a Civil Action, in which U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR DETERMINATION MORTGAGE TRUST is Plaintiff and MONTEGO GROUP LLC; et al., are Defendants, pending in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, Hudson County, under Docket Number: F-013449-25, within thirty-five (35) days after the date of publication of this notice, exclusive of the date of service. If you fail to do so, judgment by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint, amended complaint, amendment(s), order(s), if any. You shall file your answer and proof of service in duplicate with the Clerk of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Hughes Justice Complex, 25 West Market Street, Trenton, New Jersey 08625, in accordance with the Rules of Civil Practice and Procedure. This action has been commenced and is pending to foreclose a mortgage and recover possession of certain lands and premises, as follows: The mortgage being foreclosed is dated August 31, 2023, and made by Montego Group LLC, as Mortgagor, to ABL RPC Residential Credit Acquisition LLC, which mortgage was recorded on September 6, 2023 in Hudson County, in Book 20497 of Mortgages for said County on Page 00526 et seq. The lands and premises affected by this action and for which possession is sought are commonly known as 46 Dwight Street, Jersey City, NJ 07305 F/K/A 46 Dwight Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07305, and also known as Lot 59 in Block 25201. If you are unable to obtain an attorney, you may communicate with the New Jersey State Bar Association by calling (732) 249-5000. You may also contact the lawyer referral services of the County of Venue by calling (856) 482-0618. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may communicate with the Legal Services Office of the County of Venue by calling (856) 964-2010. You, Montego Group LLC; Mina Meleka, are hereby made party defendants to the foreclosure action because you have or may claim to have some right, title, lien or other interest affecting the real estate being foreclosed, by virtue of ownership, inheritance, descent, intestacy, devise, dower, curtsey, mortgage, deed, or conveyance, enter of judgment or other legal or lawful right. The nature of which and the reason that you and each of you are joined as defendants is set forth with particularity in the Complaint, Amended Complaint, Amendment(s), Order(s), if any, a copy of which will be furnished to you on request addressed to the attorneys for the plaintiff at the above mentioned address.

January 28, 2026

SENIOR LIVING

January is a natural time for reset, especially when it comes to budgets and better-for-you habits. With cold and flu season still in full swing, it’s also a time when many people start thinking about how to stay healthy without spending more than they planned.

With a few tips and tricks, staying healthy doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s what you can do:

Choose generic and save. January is National Store Brand Month, a reminder that many everyday health essentials don’t require paying extra for a name on the label. Store brand overthe-counter (OTC) products offer a more affordable option for common needs, including pain relief and cough and cold care.

Perrigo, a leading provider of store brand OTC products makes trusted alternatives to name brands across key self-care categories, including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, cough suppressants, decongestants and multi-symptom relief. These store brand OTC products contain the same active ingredients and meet the same FDA standards as national name brands, but at a lower cost. As health care costs continue to rise, consumers can opt for these store brand OTC products to save money without compromising on quality.

Shop ahead. Most people don’t think about cold and flu products until they actually

need them. Stocking up ahead of time can help ensure quick access to relief while making it easier to take advantage of savings. Using coupons, price-saving apps and shopping for store promotions can help bring down the cost of everyday health essentials.

Stay active. Staying active doesn’t have to mean joining a luxury gym membership or having a complicated routine. Research published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that moderate amounts of exercise can help reduce stress and support immune function. Walking, running, free online workout classes or bodyweight exercises at home are all accessible ways to stay active throughout the season.

Adopt healthy habits. Small, everyday habits can also make a difference during cold and flu season. Washing your hands, staying hydrated and getting plenty of sleep are simple steps that support overall wellness and help reduce the risk of getting sick.

As consumers settle into their New Year routines, combining smart shopping choices with healthy habits can help them feel prepared and more in control throughout cold and flu season.

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.

Home for Services

Mario Teixeria, IV, Manager, NJ Lic. #3757

Teixeira, Jr. Director, NJ Lic. #2542 • Monique Teixeira, Director, NJ Lic. #4048

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

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

BLOOMFIELD 3rd floor. 2 BR, LR, EIK. $1900 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/smoking. Close to Trans & all major highways. Available February 1st (201)563-8726 36W03

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

BELLEVILLE 16 Howard Place. off Washington Avenue. 1 BR. LR, Kitchen $1400 + 1.5 Months security. HT/ HW included. No Pets. Near Family Dollar Store. Available Now (973) 801-5900 37W03

KEARNY 1 BR apt. HT/ HW included also Hardwood floors , $1,500 + 1.5 months security. No pets/smoking. Available Now. For more Info Call 201-306-2994 36W03

KEARNY 3rd floor, 1 BR, 1 Bath $1200 + 2 months security. Separate utilities. No pets or smoking. Available Now References & credit report required call (201)955-2208 36W03

KEARNY 1st floor 3

BR’s, 1 bath, LR, DR & Kitchen $2800 + 1 months security. Utilities separate Parking for 1 car, No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (973)868-3378 36W03

KEARNY 1st floor 3 bedrooms, living room, dining room and one parking spot, $2,700 + 1 month security. Utilities separate No Smoking/No Pets. Available March 1st (551)5807331 36W03

E.NEWARK/HARRISON 1st Floor, 2 BR’s, LR, EIK $1850 + 1 months security Utilities separate Available Now (201)988-7536 38W03

HARRISON 2nd floor.

2 BR. Large LR & Kitchen. 1 Bath. Central Air. $2000 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Close to Path. No Pets/Smoking. Available March 1st. Call (973)563-9894 38W03

KEARNY 1st Floor 2

BR’s, LR, EIK $2050 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate, credit required No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)998-0509 36W03

KEARNY Newly remodelled Windsor St. 1st Floor, 2 BR’s, LR, DR, Updated Kitchen. $2200 + 1.5 months securirty, Utilities separate, No Pets/Smoking, Background check Available now (732)829-0683 36W03

KEARNY 1st Floor. 2

BR, DR, LR, EIK. Laundry $2500 + 1 months security Utilities separate No pets/smoking. Couples preferred Available Now (201)998-2399 36W03

KEARNY 3rd Floor

3 br’s, $2150 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 36W03

KEARNY Large 1st floor Freshly painted 4 BR’s, LR, EIK, 1 Bath acces to patio $2900 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking Available Now (201)7729965 36W03

KEARNY 2 + BR Spacious bright, 2nd floor EIK, LR, 1 full bath, $2400 + 1.5 months security, Utilities not include, No Pets/Smoking Available 02/01 (646)878-7697 36W03

KEARNY 2 floor, 2 BR EIK LR & Garage. $2100+1 mth security, utilities separate, no pets/smoking proof to pay rent req. Available Now 201-772-4896 37W03

KEARNY Newly renovated. 3 BR’s. 1 bath, EIK, LR. $2400 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. No Pets/ Smoking Available March 1st (201)8521720 38W03

NEWARK 1st fl. 2 BR, Kitchen, LR & DR. $1900 + 1 months security. HT/HW included. No Pets/Smoking Credit check Avl. Now (862) 888-8487 38W03

NEWARK Forest Hill area 1st Floor EIK & Bath to share, Utilities included Street Parking No Pets/Smoking Available Now (973)4933614 or (973)7526877 36W03

N.ARLINGTON 1st FL. 2 BR’s ,LR, Kitchen, Bath and driveway parking. Close to bus. $2100 + 1 1/2 month security. No Pets. No Smoking Available Now (551)5809142 36W03

N.ARLINGTON Studio $1400 + 1.5 Months security. Utilities included. No Pets/No Smoking. 1 person only. Available 2/14/26 (201)4288815 Leave text message 36W03

N.ARLINGTON One bedroom 3 room apartment in an apartment complex. Excellent location, near stores and Transportation $1800.00 per month, one month security. Heat and hot water provided. Laundry on premises Storage in basement smoking and no pets. Adults preferred. Please call between 10:00am and 7:00pm: 201-997-2341 37W03

N.ARLINGTON 2nd fl, 2 BR’s, LR, dining rm, sun parlor, kitchen, pantry, bath, private entrance, close to Ridge Rd/bus, utilities separate, small pet welcomed for +cost, no smoking. $2200+1.5 security deposit. Available now (201)726-8102 38W03

Saturday January

*Household Items *Kitchen Items & Small Appliances * Dinette Set * Snack Tables * Accent Tables * Tablecloths * TVs & Stands * Outdoor Chairs & Patio Furniture * Tools * Lawn Mower & Snow Blower * Living Room, Dining Room with & (2) Bedroom Furniture Sets ……And Much More! 38W01

Trading & Operations Analyst, Jersey City, NJ

Implmnt & support trading process from order strategy & execution thru settlmnt; lead liquidity forecasting & treasury strategy; dvlp & maintain cash flow models; enter & maintain orders on Order Mgmt Sys; generate allocations for multiple client funds; research trade ideas w/in established risk parameters; monitor discretionary strategies across asset classes; build dashboards & models to track performance; dvlp automation scripts using VBA, Python, SQL; produce daily position & profitability reports; prep custom invstmnt reports; interpret data to recommend trading activity; track & rank counterparties by performance metrics. Master in Management or Finance + 6 months exp in job offrd or as Operations & Risk Analyst. Annual Salary $112,778. Fax resume to Paulson & Co, 212-977-9505. 38W01

DRIVER Needed for Newark based wholesale seafood company No CDL required. Must have current NJ Driver license Please Call 973-623-8989 38W03

KEARNY 352 belgrove Dr. for $200 a month (973)519-0311 36W03

N.ARLINGTON 1 Car Garage for rent with remote, $210 + 1 Month security call

(973)517-1342 38W03

CARS FOR SALE

2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Automatic asking $3500 - Honda Pilot Automatic Asking $3500 Must see, make offer (718)503-2299 37W03

OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

Lyndhurst PD solves pre-Christmas package theft case

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

The Lyndhurst Police Department was able turn a bah-hum-bug Christmastime experience for a township resident into a story with a much happier ending.

According to the Lyndhurst PD’s Public Information Officer Capt. Paul Haggerty:

On Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, Officer Salvatore Wartel initiated an investigation reported by a Stuyvesant Avenue resident who reported a package had been stolen on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025 at approximately 3:47 p.m. The victim’s neighbor’s home surveillance captured the incident, which depicted a dark-skinned man wearing a red hooded sweatshirt, black pants, over-ear headphones and a black winter hat approach their residence and place a package on their doorstep.

The video then depicts the suspect walking to the house directly to the north of the neighbor’s and removing their three packages that were previously delivered and loading them into the rear cargo area of a white four-door sedan. The packages, whose contents contained two

articles of clothing and a basketball, were valued at $125.

Det. Michael Giangeruso was assigned the case, and after sharing the details of the incident with law enforcement partners through a confidential digital law-enforcement bulletin-sharing network, Agent Dimitry Mazur, of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, contacted Det. Giangeruso and provided hm with a plate number of the suspect vehicle using an automated license plate reading database.

The registered owner of the vehicle appeared to have matched the physical appearance of the suspect displayed on the

surveillance footage.

Next, Bergen County Sheriff’s Officer Nicholas Haggerty contacted Giangeruso and positivity identified the suspect, Edwin Monterocueto, as a result of a previous unrelated law-enforcement encounter with him.

Earlier this month, Monterocueto responded to police headquarters to turn himself in after being previously contacted by Giangeruso to do so on both Jan. 2 and 5.

Monterocueto was charged with package theft and released on a complaint summons, pending his appearance in the Bergen County Central Judicial Processing Court, Hackensack.

Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. would like to thank the Bergen County Prosecutor’s and sheriff’s officers for their assistance in quickly identifying Monterocueto and assisting the Lyndhurst PD in closing out another pre-holiday crime committed in our community.

Observer Editor Kevin A. Canessa Jr. may be reached by email at kc@theobserver.com. Reach him on Facebook and Twitter @kevincanessa.

BRIEFS

Continued from Page 3

er Kearny, 28 Beech St., hosts open gyms Tuesday and Wednesdays and now Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. for kids aged 12 to 17. Games will be under the supervision of the immortal Tom Fraser, retired Lincoln School counselor and coach and long-time director of the Presbyterian Boys & Girls Club.

Vincent United hosts monthly food pantry

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 Department, 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.

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Continued from Page 1

of the blighted Comcast property on River Road to be used as overflow parking for sporting events and installing a striking Barcelona-style fountain at Daniel Morris Park.

The mayor also spoke about ways in which Borough leadership effectively communicates with residents, including the bi-annual North Arlington News and the North Arlington Connect smartphone app.

“This app is a free, convenient way for borough officials to share news, events, recycling schedules, municipal ordinances and more with all our residents,” Pronti said of North Arlington Connect. “We hope everyone has the opportunity to add this great communication channel to their devices.”

Looking forward, Pronti spoke about the upcoming groundbreaking for the North Arlington Senior & Veterans Housing Complex at the former VFW site, 200 River Road. The new building will function as a modern senior center and veterans hall, including more than 40 moderately

KELLY

Continued from Page 1

staff of the department of Public Affairs and Health, who did not miss a beat in my absence and continued to deliver the best services possible for the community.

“I was touched by all the letters I received from the entire school at Good Shepherd Academy and the students at Yantacaw School. They brightened not only my day, but those that I served with as well. I could not have done my mission without your support and the

priced rental apartment units built for seniors and veterans.

“We are pleased to be nearing groundbreaking for such an essential and long-awaited project,” Pronti said, noting he is eager for the new building to serve well-deserving seniors and veterans who have given so much to the community.

North Arlington residents will be given preference on availability once the application process begins.

The mayor also noted the borough’s continued efforts to find a suitable partner for the redevelopment of the former Melray’s Furniture Store site, 45 Ridge Road. He emphasized ample parking will be a key priority when evaluating proposals.

Speaking further on parking, the mayor announced the borough is forming a much-needed Parking Advisory Committee, consisting of residents, business owners, professionals, police, Borough employees and a council liaison.

“I want to thank everyone here who is working toward the betterment of North Arlington and shares in our collective vision,” Pronti said. “Let’s embrace positivity, reject negativity, and continue moving our wonderful town forward.”

support of my family, especially my wife and parents.

“It was an honor to serve my

country, especially alongside the professional and honorable men and women with whom I had the privilege of serving every day, many of whom are still in harm’s way. I will continue to pray for them and their families (no service member sacrifices alone) until all deployed service members are home where they belong.”

In honor of the mayor’s service, the township unveiled a “Welcome Home” banner this week on Franklin Avenue between Church and Chestnut streets.

“I'm looking forward to seeing and thanking everyone in person,” Kelly said.

-Rami Alrabaa