You may have recently seen either an ad or story in another publication about Air B&B offering homeowners a nice $750 simply for listing your home on the app for possible rental during the World Cup Final, slated to be played over the summer at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford
In some towns listed, that’s fine.
But in Kearny, which was improperly included on that list as a town where the fee would be
paid for such a rental, you better think again before getting into a contract with Air B&B and that’s because the Town of Kearny has laws on the books expressly banning homeowners here from sub-letting any kind of residential property for the short term.
And if you decide to go ahead and sub-let anyway?
That $750 signing bonus you may get will be the equivalent of just one day’s fine when you’re caught.
That $750 per day is in effect for up to 10 days of an improperly sub-let apartment. After that, the daily fine spikes to potential $2,000-per-day fines. Egregious violators are also subject to 30 days of incarceration in the Hudson County Jail.
Some background.
The Town of Kearny first banned such short-term rentals in 2017 but at the time, only one-family homes fell under the law (ordinance.) But because of the already-challenging parking situation in Kearny, and an increase in population, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle and the Town Council recently adopted an ordinance expanding the previous law to include banning all residential properties in the town
from short-term sub-letting. And it’s hardly just a parking issue that led to the 2017 law and the 2026 expansion.
Residents have, from time to time, complained about large parties, unknown people in their neighborhood and excessive amounts of vehicles associated with these types of rentals. In fact, in at least one case, and entire two-family house was rented for a weekend and with it, a tour bus was parked at the curb, running overnight and taking up three parking spaces. Another instance included a three-family home being sublet to three families with two cars per family, no driveway, this taking six spots in a densely populated street, leaving residents to scramble to find parking, in some cases, blocks away.
Now do police or code-enforcement officers go around looking to find violators? That would be next to impossible. But residents may easily notify the Kearny Police, Fire and Construction Code offices by telephone. You may also send emails to those departments. Click on the “See, Click, Fix” portal at www.kearnynj.org to send a complaint.
‘James & the Giant peach set for this weekend at Kearny HS
By Milly Gonzalez Special to The Observer
Kearny High School’s annual musical, “James & the Giant Peach,” takes place at 7 p.m., March 19-21 at the Kearny High School auditorium, 336 Devon St.
The Observer spoke with Milly Gonzalez, Kearny High School music teacher and the show’s stage director and choreographer, who told us all about what to expect.
According to Gonzalez:
This show is extra special as it is the first musical to feature the school’s brand new lighting system, adding sparkle and energy to every scene. We are thrilled to welcome back Vocal Music Director Scott Burzynski, a music teacher at Garfield and Washington schools. I first worked with Scott on “In The Heights,” at KHS in 2012, and we have also collaborated on West Hudson Theatre Company productions. This reunion is a joy for the entire creative team.
For the first time, the orchestra pit will feature a combination of KHS alumni, faculty, student instrumentalists and professional musicians, all performing together under the baton of Danny Conde to bring the music to life.
Student Luis Refosco Medina designed projected images that complement Ian Costello’s
imaginative set design, creating a truly fantastical world on stage. I am especially excited that my dance instructor, Christina Piedra, artistic director of Legacy Dance Company, contributed some key choreographic moments, adding dynamic movement to the show.
The production is also supported by two Board of Education-approved volunteers and proud KHS alumni: Madelyne Pichardo (Class of 2022) and Arianny Gonzalez Alvarez (Class of 2025). Both were standout members of the music department and have returned to help with props, set pieces, costumes and makeup.
Franklin School teacher Alexis Cordova is providing the main hall decorations with her company Airy Designs, while Franklin teacher Marlene Hinostroza is donating homemade treats for the concession stand through her company MK Royal Sweets. Dave Caravella, Lincoln Middle School band director, is controlling the sound booth and has meticulously edited our opening announcements and ambient music.
This production is truly a team effort, showcasing the many talents of both our students and faculty, who often wear many hats. Kathleen Astrella, our amazing business manager, is the
glue that holds it all together.
With a talented cast, creative team and magical touches behind every scene, “James and the Giant Peach” is shaping up to be a must see for the Kearny community. Main characters include Antonella Sanchez as James;
Miguel Pinero as Ladahlord; Carlie Vega/Jasmine Santamassino as Spiker/ Sponge; Luis Refosco Medina as Grasshopper; Amanda Garcia as Ladybug; Maisie Kelly as Spider; Robert Sabados as Centipede; and Jayden X. Rodriguez as Earthworm.
The creative team is Gonzalez, stage director & choreographer; Scott Burzynski, vocal coach; Conde, instrumental music director and lighting design; Ian Costello, set design; Caravella, sound engineer; Kathleen Astrella, business manager and Christopher McShane, program designer.
“‘James & the Giant Peach,’ is whimsical, the characters are
quirky, the music is challenging and the students and creative team have done a great job bringing Roald Dahl's book to life,” Astrella, also the district’s director of performing and visual arts, said.
Pinero
Vega
Lyndhurst PD: Pair stole $40K+ in copper
By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com
Two Garfield men who were able to steal more than $40,000 in copper from a building under construction in Lyndhurst have been charged in connection to the crime, thanks to great detective work and collaboration with one of the department’s officers, Capt. Paul Haggerty, the Lyndhurst Police Department’s publicinformation officer, said According to Haggerty:
copper and criminal mischief to several electrical transformers located on the first floor of the parking garage in an isolated area.
The building manager told police just prior to contacting them, he had performed an equipment/material check of the property, which revealed numerous transformers had been damaged and stripped of copper components.
The property manager also said he reviewed video surveillance, which captured the incident.
The vehicle approached the location of the electrical equipment and parked.
The men were observed approaching and tampering with the electrical equipment. Later that afternoon, Cuneo identified the vehicle’s registration and its registered owner as one of the two suspects, Mario Saltalamacchia, 39, of Garfield, who matched the video surveillance.
This was obtained through inquires with the township’s ALPR system.
accomplice, Arthur J. Majcher, 40, of Garfield, by contacting a previous employer using various investigative leads. It was also discovered Majcher had also conducted a transaction on a different day at the same scrap yard in Garfield.
themselves in at Lyndhurst police headquarters at the direction of legal counsel. Both were charged with third degree theft, third degree criminal mischief and disorderly persons criminal trespass.
After being processed, Saltalamacchia and Majcher were released on a complaint summons pending appearances in the Bergen County Central Judicial Processing Court, Hackensack.
On Monday, March 2, 2026, at 8:22 a.m., the property management of 9 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst’s sole high-rise building which is undergoing a massive renovation, made a report of theft of more than $40K in
The manager provided Det. Sgt. Christopher Cuneo, who investigated the incident, with copies of the video surveillance, which revealed on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2026, at 8:20 p.m., a black early 2000s Ford F-150 entered the first level of the parking garage.
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Cuneo then called Saltalamacchia, who said he would respond to police headquarters to speak with him at noon, March 4. Alas, Saltalamacchia never showed and refused to answer any of Cuneo’s calls from that point.
Real Estate Let’s Talk
ALTERNATE FINANCING FOR A FLIP PROPERTY
Flipping a property is a short-term investment that requires short-term funding rather than a traditional 15or 30-year home loan. A hard money loan is a short-term loan that uses the property itself (or other equity) as collateral. These loans tend to come from private lenders or investors instead of banks or credit unions. Hard money loans are typically used specifically for real estate transactions and are termed so because they’re made based on the property’s “hard” value rather than the borrows’ credit history. Interest rates are higher due to the increased risk to the lender and the short-term nature of the loan. Hard money loans can help you get
started in the house flipping business when financing options are limited.
Whether you are flipping a property for profit or searching for your forever home, there are hundreds of possible decisions that must be made during every successful real estate transaction. And all begin with a simple phone call to our office. We’d love to add you to our ever-growing list of successful house buyers and sellers. Buying or selling, we are the professionals you’ll want for the job. We invite you to stop by our office; we’d like to show you what we can do for you. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”
Cuneo then began contacting local area scrap yards, where he discovered that Saltalamacchia did in fact scrap the copper. Cuneo also identified his
During the course of the investigation and upon Majcher being identified, Cuneo realized Officer Michael D’Alessandro had contact with him Jan. 18, 2026, while conducting a property check. D’Alessandro observed Majcher checking the contents of a dumpster on the same property, and when approached by D’Alessandro, he reportedly lied and said that he was authorized by the general contractor of the site to retrieve scrap metal.
At the time, Majcher’s identity was confirmed and memorialized, and he was sent on his way since the dumpster was empty.
Then, Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 9 a.m., both turned
Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. commended Cuneo for closing out the investigation and identifying both suspects quickly. He also commended Officer D’Alessandro for his proactive patrol work, which later tied one of the suspects to the crime scene.
“This is outstanding work by our patrol officers and detectives in closing out another case using intelligence and technology that were complimented by close partnership with a local developer” Haggerty said.
Columcille United Gaelic Pipe Band marching
kick
off (well done, George
Parade Adjutant Brian Wiltrout. Then,
year’s Grand Marshal Mark Wiggins basking in the day (as he often does.) Next, it’s Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, the Kearny Town Council, U.S. Rep Rob Menendez, State Sen. Angela McKnight and other invited guests.
lastly, it’s the Kearny Police Department’s Honor Guard leading the parade.
OPINION
SPECIAL COMMENTARY
My life with Cystic Fibrosis
By George McDermott Special to The Observer
Living with cystic fibrosis can feel overwhelming and isolating. I remember sleeping in a mist tent as a child — which is no longer used for CF — and not understanding why I had to do it. At 4, my parents split up and I was placed in a foster home. I endured physical therapies, numerous pills and stares from strangers as my face turned beet red from coughing so hard — all without grasping why I was going through such challenges. My youth was filled with questions and uncertainty, moving from one foster home to another, hoping to be adopted. While other kids looked through the Sears Catalog for Christmas toys, I felt like I was in a catalog of foster children waiting to be chosen. Those experiences stood out in the early stages of my life.
The physical burden of CF often felt like a weight on my chest. I struggled not only with the illness, but also with the emotional stress that came with it. There were days I would hit rock bottom and doubt there was any chance that my life would get easier. The anxiety and depression I faced made it difficult for me to function in school and at home with my foster family.
I blamed everyone else who was offering me help for the problems I had, even before I met and knew them.
When I was in my late teens, I rebelled so much I wound up homeless — not because I didn’t have a home, but because I thought I could do everything myself and didn’t need anyone. So, I left my home and lived in the streets, sleeping in an abandoned commercial warehouse — no CF treatments, carrying whatever meds I
Lisa M. Feorenzo lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.
had in my bag, no clean clothes. I would wash my face in the small bathroom of a pizzeria, daily. The owner knew somehow that I needed help and offered me a job. That act of kindness from a stranger was a big turning point in my life.
I refused to feel sorry for myself or give up. I began searching for answers and ways that would enable me to navigate life with CF. That led me to focus on helping others in need by volunteering for the emergency squad in my town. Initially I doubted I could become an EMT, but my perspective changed as I responded to calls for help, discovering assisting others took my mind off my struggles.
I remember my first CPR call vividly. Although the outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, an older team member reassured me even in failure, we provided hope to the family involved. This experience ignited a mission within me to help others, leading me to become more involved in my community.
Despite the challenges of CF, I started working as a police dispatcher and continued volunteering for various activities, including church functions and other community events. Each encounter with others who knew about my condition was an opportunity to break the ice and educate them about my CF. Gradually, the questions about my health diminished as more people understood my reality of living with CF.
I continued to volunteer, eventually joining the volunteer fire department and completing my fire training. Unknown to me, many people in my community were invested in my journey, participating in fundraisers for cystic fibrosis awareness.
Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising
Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager
50 years strong at Spanish Pavillion
HSpanish
recently marked its 50th anniversary. Seen here with longtime owner Mike Fernandez,
is Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, who presented Fernandez with a special proclamation on her behalf and on behalf of the Kearny Town Council. The Observer joins in saluting Fernandez on this special occasion. He says there will be a large, outdoor celebration sometime this summer.
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
n Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday
n Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday
n Help Wanted: Noon, Monday — all ads must be sent to classified@theobserver.com.
Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster
Both girls show they’re among the state’s best on the mat
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
Michele Gavilanes and Aitana Lozano came to Atlantic City for the NJSIAA Girls Wrestling State Championships with a chip on their shoulder and a mission to prove that they are among the very best at their respective weight classes.
They returned home with medals, showing without a shadow of a doubt that they are in a truly elite group of wrestlers.
Gavilanes, Nutley’s star sophomore, had the best finish in program history when she took third place at 145 pounds. Lozano, Lyndhurst-North Arlington’s senior standout at 100 pounds, finished her career with a seventh place showing.
“I definitely felt like even before they gave me the 11 seed, that because it’s my senior year, I had to leave a mark because I’ve been in the program for so long and I just felt like it was my last time to really prove myself and put myself out there,” said Lozano. “And then when I got the 11 seed, I just had to show that the seating really didn’t matter and that it was really just showing what I can do.”
Added Gavilanes, “this year I had to prove to everyone and especially myself that I belong up there with the best girls in New Jersey.”
Gavilanes, who didn’t medal in her Atlantic City debut as a freshman, returned this year as a five seed. On Thursday, she quickly proved this time would be different, starting with a pin over Autumn Connolly of North Hunterdon in just 1:19 in the first round before defeating Immaculata’s Taylor Thiele in the quarterfinal by a 12-5 decision to clinch a medal and avenge an earlier loss at the Lady Minutemen Tournament.
“When the brackets came out, we were extremely pleased with our spot. And she was focused,” Nutley head coach Mike DiPiano said. “We had a great game plan. She stuck to it and she dominated the match (against Thiele). It was a fantastic match. It was one of the best matches she’s wrestled in her career and it was a great win for her.”
Friday started with Gavilanes dropping an 11-4 decision to Buena’s Shea Aretz in the semifinals. Without much time to regroup, Gavilanes had to go back out there for the wrestleback semifinals and pinned
Cliffside Park’s Ashley Bernal in 1:20.
Gavilanes’ season ended on Saturday when she defeated Thiele again in the third place match with an 8-4 decision.
The victory concluded the best finish a Nutley girl has ever had in the state tournament and capped off an incredible 44-5 season.
“While I am very happy with the outcome of this weekend, it doesn’t stop here,” said Gavilanes, who already has a busy freestyle season planned for this spring. “There are more goals I’d like to accomplish now, moving into freestyle.”
Lozano, making her first trip to Atlantic City, got an extra bit of motivation when she was awarded the 11th seed in the 16
wrestler field. She quickly turned heads on Thursday when, in her first round match, pinned Eastern’s Brooke Pettet at 5:01.
“I had to go and show that the seeding really doesn’t matter at the end of the day. And if I wanted it bad enough, I was going to get it,” Lozano said. “I knew it was going to be a tough match, but when I won it made me feel like I did belong there.”
Lozano lost in the quarterfinals by tech fall to Gabriela Giacone of Watchung Hills, but her tournament wasn’t over.
On Friday, in the second round of wrestlebacks and a spot on the medal stand on the line, Lozano was matched up against a very familiar foe in Nutley’s Izzy Timonera in a rematch of the District 3 final. Like the first matchup, Lozano won by major decision.
“That was a really tough one because me and Izzy got really close because of the sport,” said Lozano. “We have been in this since freshman year together. We wrestled definitely over 20 times during our whole high school experience. So when I knew that I had to wrestle her for the spot, it was a little heartbreaking, but I just went in there knowing that if I didn’t win that match, then that was it. That was over and everything that I had worked for was going to be gone.”
Lozano lost in the next round to Lydia Bagley of Delaware Valley by decision, before finishing her career on Saturday with a 7-3 decision of Delsea’s Karleigh Six in the seventh place match.
“I think she just needed to prove to herself,” Lyndhurst head coach Matt DeMarco said. “(Sometimes we had to tell her), ‘Atana, you’re just as good. You belong with all these other girls that ended up on the podium.’ I think this weekend was just a true testament to her wanting to show herself and everyone else how good she actually really is.”
The biggest winner locally on the girls side was Bloomfield’s Saharia Quamina, who put the finishing touches on a perfect 39-0 season by pinning Giovanna Farrell-Byers at 2:36 to win the 235 pound title. Freshman Adrienne Rodriguez also medalled for the Bengals, taking sixth at 107 pounds.
While not medaling, Nutley’s Izzy Timonera finished her career with a school re-
cord 98 wins after going 1-2 at 100 pounds. Bloomfield’s Lesley Sanchez went 1-2 as she was denied in her quest for her second medal at 185 pounds. Lyndhurst-North Arlington’s Leia Lumba (145 pounds), and Kearny’s Aralyn Hernandez (132) both were in 0-2 in their first state championship experience.
On the boys side, Nutley’s AJ Maiden was 1-2 at 165 pounds, giving him 99 career wins heading into his senior year. Fellow junior Nolan Brewer overcame a first round loss at 285 by winning consecutive wrestleback matches before having his tournament run end with a 2-2 record.
Kearny junior Matthew Pagan went 1-2 at 113 pounds, ending a stellar season while his teammate, sophomore Izael Moya lost both of his matches at 175 pounds.
Lozano (Matt DeMarco photo)
Gavilanes (Michael Blanchard photo)
By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com
The reality of Lyndhurst’s boys basketball season being over didn’t really hit coaches Perrin Mosca and Jason Romer until the next day when, for the first time since November, there wasn’t a practice to run after school.
“We were saying the next day (on Wednesday) and we're like, ‘oh, we got nothing to do today,’” Mosca said. “It was a little weird because we expected to keep playing.”
Unfortunately for Lyndhurst there weren’t any more games to play as a historic and magical season for the Golden Bears came to an end on Tuesday evening when it lost a 74-70 dou-
ble-overtime heartbreaker to Ramsey in the NJSIAA Group 2 semifinals in Bloomfield.
The loss ended Lyndhurst’s season, one that included its first state sectional title in 45 years, with a 21-10 record.
“We had a lot of goals and we hit them all,” said Mosca.
“It was just a crazy year. These kids, they did a great job and so happy for them that they were able to get to these goals.
“We set these goals, they hit them all, had a great year and
WHAT CAUSES ASTIGMATISM?
Astigmatism is an imperfection in the curvature of the eye that causes blurry vision at all distances. It happens when either the cornea (called corneal astigmatism) or the lens (called lenticular astigmatism) has mismatched curves, creating a refractive error. The astigmatism can also be horizontal or vertical. It is often present at birth but may not require treatment for many years. Astigmatism can develop after an eye injury, disease, or surgery. It is not generally considered a preventable eye condition, aside from protecting the eyes from preventable injuries. Some common eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma also cause astigmatism, as can
keratoconus, a corneal condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge outward.
See an eye doctor if your eye symptoms detract from your enjoyment of activities or interfere with your ability to perform everyday tasks. An eye doctor can determine whether you have astigmatism and, if so, to what degree. To schedule an appointment, please call 201-896-0096. You’ll find us at 20 Park Avenue, Lyndhurst. To reach our optical shop, call 201-896-0007. We accept most insurance.
P.S. Reading in low light, sitting very close to the television, or using a phone or tablet up close does not cause astigmatism or makes it worse.
www.delucavision.com
topped off with that state sectional championship. That was amazing.”
Four days after hitting the game-winning shot heard around Lyndhurst, star senior Johnny Chaname followed with the biggest game of his storied career, finishing with a career-high 38 points.
Chaname hit buzzer-beating 3-pointers to end the first and second quarters and was merely getting started.
Chaname forced overtime when he made a layup to tie the game at 53-all with three seconds left in the regulation. Then, in the first overtime, another Chaname layup in the final seconds tied the game at 62-62 to force a second overtime.
“This was by far his craziest
Continued on the next page
Photo by Jason Romer
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Continued from previous page
game. He was doing everything on his own (at times),” Mosca said about Chaname, who finishes his career with 1,431 points. “It was crazy how at the end of the first quarter, he hit a buzzer beater three. At the end of the second quarter he hit a buzzer beating three. The end of regulation hit a two to tie. At the end of the first overtime, he hit a two to tie. It was just insane. He almost willed us to victory, him by himself.”
Ramsey scored the first five points of the second overtime as Owen Farley hit a 3-pointer and Julien Quinerly followed with a pair of free throws. Despite four points in the
second overtime by Sam Ijeh, the Bears were never able to overcome the deficit as Charlie Taylor put the game away with two free throws with 1.6 seconds left.
“I told them after the game, you guys have done something that this town hasn’t seen in 45 years, so just don't put your head down, keep your head up,” Mosca said. “And then I told the younger guys to, ‘just use this as fuel. If you want to win that group two state title, you have a couple years to do that. So make it burn inside of you so you're able to get there next year or the year after.’
For a lot of the kids, (the loss) was tough on them, but we're going to just keep working and trying to get there.”
Premier Car e TALK S
OCULAR ROSACEA
Ocular rosacea is a chronic eye condition linked to the skin disease rosacea and often causes redness, burning, itchiness, and dryness in the eyes and eyelids. People may feel like something is in their eye, experience crusty eyelash buildup, light sensitivity, blurry vision, swollen eyelids, or frequent styes and pink eye. It tends to affect adults aged 30–50 and can occur even without facial symptoms. There’s no cure, but managing symptoms involves gentle eyelid hygiene, warm compresses, artificial tears, and avoiding personal triggers. Doctors will often prescribe low dose oral antibiotics such as doxycycline or recommend anti inflammatory eye drops. Treatments like steroid or cyclosporine drops or light based
therapy may also help control inflammation and protect vision in more persistent cases.
Most people with ocular rosacea experience fewer and less severe flare-ups once they learn to identify and avoid their triggers and find treatments that help manage their symptoms. To schedule an appointment, please call PREMIER CARE ASSOCIATES OF WEST HUDSON at 201-9987474, or visit us 7 days a week at 512 Kearny Ave., Suite B.
P.S. While the exact cause of ocular rosacea is unclear, contributing factors may include blocked eyelid oil glands; eyelash mites; bacteria; genetics; and triggers like spicy food, alcohol, heat, stress, sunlight, or wind.
Email any questions or comments to: premiercare@gmail.com
Premier Care Associates of West Hudson is available on a walk-in or appointment basis for your primary healthcare needs.
As a coach and staff, we talked about this being not just a one year thing. We’re in this for the long haul
— Perrin Mosca
‘ ’
Ijeh, the other senior starter along with Chaname, had a career-high 16 points, 12 rebounds and five blocks in his final game, capping off a breakout season where he went from an afterthought in the summer to by far, Lyndhurst’s top forward, averaging 9.0 points and 6.4 rebounds per game.
Sophomore Avery Cano added 16 points, six rebounds and five assists.
Cano (16.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game) and fellow sophomores Filoteo Mosca (11.7 points, 6.3 rebounds per game), Josh Lorenzo and Esai Fernandez headline a strong group of projected returners that also includes forward Liony Lopez,
who missed all of this season due to injury.
“As a coach and staff, we talked about this being not just a one year thing. We're in this for the long haul,” Mosca said. “We're ready to get these kids rolling every year. Even last year when we played good, we were saying we're not rebuilding, we're just reloading over here at Lyndhurst. So we have the kids that are putting the effort in and the time in and the working and I think we can definitely keep this thing rolling.”
Mid-Realty is offering a FREE MULTILINGUAL information seminar about buying or selling in today’s challenging 2026 real estate market, and how NJ realtors represent you in real estate transactions.
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Wednesday, March 18, 2026
NEWS BRIEFS
United Irish invites applications for scholarships
The United Irish Associations of West Hudson is preparing for its annual scholarship awards, and seniors from Kearny, Harrison and East Newark from any public or private high school is eligible. There are also other requirements for considering.
The applicant must be an American citizen with Irish ancestry (an Irish parent or grandparent.) Proof of such may be requested. The applicant must be in good academic standing and be recommended to attend a secondary college, university or trade school by the applicant’s school. Financial need will be considered. Co-curriculars and community involvement will be considered in assessing merit. The applicant’s scholarship is dependent on attending a school of higher education within a year after high school. A high school transcript is also required. Any other involvement including leadership achievements, athletics, dramatics, music, the arts and community service should be listed as an attached document with the application.
Contact Marybeth Kennedy at (201) 401-3342, Christine Nash at (201) 965-4258 or Faith Kennedy at (201) 401-2967 with questions.
Applications may be downloaded by visiting www.theobserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/uisapp.pdf.
JWCA hosts annual trivia night
The Junior Woman’s Club of Arlington hosts its annual trivia night from 6 p.m., Saturday, April 18, at the Kearny American Legion, 314 Belgrove Drive. The top-3 winners get a prize. There will be raffles and 50/50, with a cash bar. The cost is $40 and may be purchased by sending the fee, using Venmo, @ juniorstrivia.
Have breakfast with the Easter Bunny
The Kearny-Belleville Elks
host a breakfast with the Easter Bunny, Sunday, March 22, from 9 a.m. to noon at the lodge, 601 Elm St. The cost is $10. Bring your own camera. Breakfast will be buffet-style. Make reservations by visiting www.is.gd/ elksbunny.
Project Graduation Bingo night rescheduled for March 28
The time has finally arrived for the rescheduled Project Graduation Bingo night Saturday, March 28, at 3 p.m. at the Kearny High School atrium. Your $40 donation gets you in for bingo and a tricky tray, a bingo card book of 10, entry-level prize sheets and a door prize. Cookies, coffee, tea and water will be served. You can bring other foods in if you want. This is a primary fundraiser for Project Graduation. To purchase tickets, send an email to projectgrad@kearnyschools. com.
LPD Emergency Squad hosting food drive
Lyndhurst Police Department’s Emergency Squad hosts a food drive Sunday, March 29, from noon to 4 p.m., at 297 Delafield Ave. Non-perishable food and Easter candy and treats will be collected. All donations go to the Lyndhurst Food Pantry.
American Legion fish fry upcoming
Kearny American Legion Post No. 99 hosts a fish fry March 29, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the post, 314 Belgrove Drive. The cost is $25 per person, $13 for kids. Chicken will be available in lieu of fish. Call (201) 889-8759 by March 25 to purchase a ticket. Space is limited.
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 April 10, May 12 and June 9.
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.
Walker hosting mobile office hours at Kearny Town Hall
New Jersey Assemblyman Jerry Walker will host mobile office hours at Kearny Town Hall, 402 Kearny Ave., from 9 a.m. to noon, March 18, 2026. Walker and his team will be able to help with any state-related issues or concerns. Walker is in his first year of his first term in the Assembly.
Editor’s note: More briefs may be found at www.theobserver. com.
QP Knights hosting blood drive
The Queen of Peace Knights of Columbus sponsor a spring blood drive Thursday, April 4, at the Columbian Club Hall, 194 River Road, North Arlington, from noon to 4 p.m. To register, visit donors.vitalant.org and enter code X126.
Town of Harrison hosting blood drive
The Town of Harrison hosts a blood drive Thursday, March 19, from 1 to 7 p.m. at the Rec Center basketball court, 401 Warren St. Donors should eat beforehand and be well hydrated; bring a photo ID, feel well the day of donation and be between 17 and 75 (16 years olds may donate with parental permission.) Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred.
Sign up at www.nybc.org with code 70864.
Belleville American Legion Auxiliary hosting blood drive
American Legion Auxiliary Post
105 hosts a blood drive at Wesley United Methodist Church,
225 Washington Ave., Belleville, from 3 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 7. Appointments are recommended but not required and may be made by visiting www. is.gd/belauxblood. Donors may enter to win one of two $10,000 gift cards.
for Services
IV,
NJ
DAVIS AVE. • KEARNY, NJ 07032
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
BELLEVILLE 1st floor
Newly renovated Spacious 1 BR, Full kitchen & Bath $1200 + 1.5 months security Utilities included No Pets/ Smoking Single person preferred Available April 1st (973)902-4515 44W03
BELLEVILLE Large 1
BR on 1st floor. LR, EIK.
Hardwood floors, $1750 + 1.5 months security. First months rent $500 Off. H/HW Included. Washer/Dryer in basement. No Smoking. Walk to Trans. Pets allowed $400 Pet fee Available Now (561)716-7628 44W03
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
BLOOMFIELD Remodeled & Great location 2 BR’S, EIK, LR/DR Combo. Lots of storage. Near Transportation & Shopping No Pets/ smoking. Ideal for working couple (973)2591699 or (973)710-7171 45W03
HARRISON Ground floor 1 BR, Kitchen, LR, 1 Bath 5 Minute walk to Path $1300 + 1.5 Months security, Utilities separate, No Smoking/Pets Available April 1st (973)484-1501 45W03
HARRISON Newly Renovated, Ground Floor, 1 BR, LR, Kitchen $1500 + 1 months security Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking Close to Transportation Available April 1st (973)900-1852 45W03
KEARNY 2nd floor
Apartment for Rent
2 BR, 1 Bath, EIK, LR & DR. Rent $2000 + 1 1/2 months security deposit. Utilities separate. No pets/smoking. Available March 15th Call ((201)919-5266 to schedule an apt viewing and pick up application 43W03
KEARNY 2nd floor
Newly renovated on Kearny Ave. 1 BR, Large LR, Kitchen $1500 + 1.5 months security, Utilities Separate No Pets/ Smoking Available April 1st by appointment only (201)997-0026 44W03
KEARNY 1st Floor
2 BR’s, LR, EIK. 1.5 months security, Utilities separate. Credit required No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)998-0509 43W03
KEARNY 2nd floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK $1800 + 1 months security Utilities separate,H/ HW water included. No Pets/Smoking, Available April 1st Call or Text (201)726-8516 43W03
KEARNY 3rd Floor. 2 BR’s, LR, Newly tiled EIK, 1 Bath, 2 huge walk in closet’s. $2100 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate. Water included. No Pets/smoking. Background check. Available Now (973)9325082 44W03
KEARNY Large 1st floor Freshly painted 4 BR’s, LR, EIK, 1 Bath acces to patio $2700 + 1.5 months security, Utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)772-9965 45W03
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 44W03
HARRISON Newly renovated 2 BR, 1 Bath, EIK, LR, Stainless steel appliance, Central HT/ AC. No pets. No smoking. Utilities separate. $2000 + 1 1/2 months security. Off street parking. Avl. Now 973985-0764 44W03
HARRISON 3rd floor, 2 BR’s, LR, 1 full bath 1 months security, utilities separate No Pets/ Smoking Close to Public transportation Available Now (862)872-8463 44W03
E.NEWARK 2nd floor. 2 BR’s, LR, DR $2400 + 1 months security, HT/ HW Included No Pets/ Smoking Available now (201)925-4050 45W03
KEARNY 2 BR’s, LR, Kitchen, on Kearny Ave. $1,750 + 1.5 months security. Separate utilities. No pets. Avl. Now (201)893-1955 44W03
KEARNY 3rd floor, 5 rooms, New laminated flooring, Kitchen with refrigerator/Stove. 1 year lease, No Pets/ Smoking $1800 + 1.5 months security. Utilities separate Available now. Showing by appointment 9am - 4pm (201)998-2615 43W03
KEARNY Four room apartment, 2nd floor, two bedrooms, large kitchen and living room. $2200.00 plus 1 month security. Utilities not included. No pets, no smoking. Very nice area. Close to schools and stores. Employment verification. Available March 15. Call 201-997-2341 between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM only 43W03
KEARNY 1st Floor Legal Handicap, New construction 3 BR’s, 2 Bath’s, located Central Kearny $2850 + 1.5 months security. Separate utilities By Appt only, Available Now (201)674-1473. Ask for Max 43W03
KEARNY 2nd & 3rd Floors of 2-family, Newly Renovated, 3 BR, LR, DR, EIK & 2 Baths, Washer/ Dryer Hook-Up, Use of Yard. No Dogs/Smoking, $2800 + 1 Months Security Deposit. Utilities separate Available Now Send email to swifty1@optonline.net 44W03
KEARNY Newly renovated 1st Floor 2 BR’s, Dr, LR, Laundry hookup in basement $2200 + 1 months security. Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking. Couples Preferred Available now (201)772-8401 44W03
KEARNY 2 BR’s, LR, EIK $1850 + 1.5 months security Utilities Separate. No Pets/Smoking, Access to Yard Available Now (201)772-9965 45W03
KEARNY 1 St floor. 1 bedroom, LR, EIK. $1600 + 1.5 months security. Utilities Separate. Proximity to PATH and bus lines. Available April 1st No Pets No Smoking. (201)889-3118 44W03
KEARNY 1st floor, 1 BR, Big LR with furniture. D.R./Kitchen $1800 + 1 months security. Utilities separate. Central Air. Closed to stores. No Pets/Smoking. Available Now (201)679-3254 45W03
KEARNY 2nd floor
Newly renovated 2 BR’s, LR, DR, EIK, Hardwood floors throughout, Coin operated Washer/Dryer in basement. Central Air. $2500 + 1.5 months security Utilities separate No Pets/Smoking, Easy access to bus and major highways. Available April 1st (201)456-9403 45W03
LYNDHURST Updated Ground floor 3 BR’s, LR, EIK, 1 Bath $2500 + 1 months security, Utilities separate, No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)655-4664 or (201)655-4663 44W03
N.ARLINGTON 2nd floor, 2 bedrooms, Large LR & DR combination. HW floors throughout, Easy access to public transit. Off Street Parking available. $1,875 + 1.5 months security. (908)462-8525 44W03
not allowed. Gentleman Preferred . No smoking No pets. Only serious inquiries 1 month security deposit. Good credit Rating. For application please Call (845) 3070326 43W03
KEARNY Newer furnished room for rent for 1 person. Share bath. $950. Utilities and Wi-Fi included. Call Bill 201-906-6847 44WO3
NEWARK Forest Hill area 1st Floor 2 BR’s, LR, EIK Utilities Separate Street Parking available No Pets/Smoking Available Now (973)4933614 or (973)7526877 43W03
NEWARK New Home, 1st floor 3 BR’s, 2 Baths, EIK, LR Dishwasher & Laundry available $3000 + 1 months security, Utilities separate. 2nd floor 3 BR’s, 2 Baths, EIK, LR Dishwasher & Laundry available $3000 + 1 months security, Utilities separate. No pet/smoking Available Now (347)304-6775 or (862)452-2184 45W03
N.ARLINGTON 3rd fl. 2 BR’s, EIK, LR, Newly renovated, 1 block from NYC transportation. Walking distance to schools, shopping and parks. No pets. No smoking. 1.5 months security. Garage optional to rent Available Now Please call (973) 5171342 45W03
KEARNY In 2 family house. 1 BR, LR, EIK. C/A $900 + 1.5 months security. No Pets/ Smoking Available Now (201)207-2870 43W03
KEARNY 1ST Floor 2
BR’s, LR, EIK, Parking lot across the street, Laundromat walking distance $1900 + 1 months security Utilities separate No Smoking/Pets Available April 1st Text anytime, call after 5PM (201)779-3317 45W03
N.ARLINGTON Studio $1400 + 1.5 Months security. Utilities included. No Pets/No Smoking. 1 person only. Available Now (201)428-8815 Leave text message 43W03
NEWARK Downtown by Library. Share Bath. Clean & Safe, Senior Preferred $630 + 1 months security. Utilities included. No Pets Available Now (201)334-6166 45W01
KEARNY Newly Renovated 3 BR’S, 1.5 Baths, LR, Kitchen, Basement, Parking Available April 1st (201)988-1671 45W03
*Roofing *Siding
*Repairs *Coatings Tired of high Estimates? Call Bruno (973) 906-8404
OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS
IMPROVEMENT
CLEANING SERVICE
DUST-BUSTERS
Nick Alfieri
Construction Servicing area 32 years Kitchen bathrooms, Roofing, Siding, Decks and more. Complete home renovation
(Hoboken, NJ) Assist w/clients to review & select fabrics. Prep drawings & sketches. Contribute to prep of specs packages. Support coordination of timelines & design process. Communicate w/tailoring. Assist pattern makers. Draft cutters’ instructions & org docs. Participate in hand draping & garment. Record meas’s & pattern specs. Provide input to improve product quality. Reqs: BD in Fash.Design / frgn equiv, + 6 mths in job. Mail CV: Genuardi, 300 Observer Hwy, Bldg H, 4th Flr, Hoboken, NJ 07030. 45W01
Process Engineer (Newark, NJ) F/T. The Process Engineer working w/ the NFC dept is resp to coord & performance loading & unloading operations, following global co. stds of process & eqpmt’s clean/sterilization upon VESSEL & Tanker (truck) arrival. Prep the NFC loading line to start loading/unloading activities.
$86,996.04/yr. Bachelor of Sci in Production Engg, or Food Sci or closely rltd, + 12 mos of exp in job offd or as Industrial Engineer, or Process Analyst, Process Analyst Trainee or closely rltd. Email resume to: Citrus Products Inc., Attn: Luciano Orestes, Operations Mgr at: lorestes@cutrale.com 45W01
Guy hosting workshop for non-profit leaders
Hudson County Executive Craig Guy invites non-profit organizations and leaders from across Hudson County to attend “Revenue Generation, Resource Development & Securing Your Non-profit’s Financial Future,” a strategic workshop designed to help organizations build stronger, more sustainable financial foundations, Tuesday, March
PUBLIC NOTICE
24, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Hudson County Plaza Press Room, 257 Cornelison Ave., Jersey City.
Nonprofit organizations are increasingly being asked to do more with fewer resources.
This interactive workshop is designed to equip executive directors, development staff and board members with practical tools to diversify
Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 3/26/26, downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08625; for: Electrical Underground Structures, North Contract - 2026, Various Locations, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren 100% State Funded
DP No: 26441
Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 (P.L 1975, c. 127); N.J.A.C. 17:27.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.19, contractors must provide a Certification and Disclosure of Political Contribution Form prior to contract award.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid.
HUDSON COUNTY
revenue streams, strengthen donor engagement and position organizations for longterm financial stability.
“This workshop reflects our commitment to supporting the organizations that serve as the backbone
Plans, specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court One Executive Campus Rt. 70 West Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856 Cherry Hill,
of our communities,” Guy said. “Nonprofits provide critical services to Hudson County residents every day. By helping them strengthen their financial strategies and expand revenue opportunities, we are investing directly in the stability and well-being of our entire county.”
The workshop will be led by Kerry P. Watterson, an
experienced leader in nonprofit resource development and strategic fundraising and founder & CEO of Fundraising Well, headquartered in Jersey City.
Space is limited. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/revenue-generation-resource-development-workshop-tickets-1983969564374?aff=oddtdtcreator for tickets.
MCDERMOTT
Continued from Page 6
massive
The motivation to share my journey stems from advancements in CF research and new treatments that have allowed me to achieve milestones I thought would never be possible. Completing my 28th year at the police department and planning for retirement was a personal
victory.
I celebrated 35 years with the emergency squad, 25 years with the fire department, as well as having served in various community organizations, earning recognition for my service. I was even named the 2025 Knight of the Year by the Knights of Columbus in New Jersey.
My hope is that by sharing my struggles and triumphs, I can inspire at least one person with CF or anyone else to find their path and purpose in life. There is so much more to my story, and I look forward to sharing more stories that will encourage and inspire others to make changes that give them an opportunity to live a better life.
