Kearny duo leads effort to make Project Graduation a night to remember

Twenty-six years ago, Jenny Paz says, three of her high school classmates veered off a curve in Trumansburg, New York and struck a pole. The driver and both passengers were killed. It’s a preventable tragedy repeated from country roads to highways across the United States. Prom and graduation season is the most dangerous time for…

April 23, 20260Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

News

Donegal Saloon breathes Irish culture

Walking through the emerald exterior into the dim-lit expanse of Donegal Saloon, you may encounter red-beards in Irish garb, a band or deejay, and generations of friends and family. The low-key atmosphere and authenticity attract rock n’ rollers, country bumpkins, rappers and hip-hoppers alike, depending on the day or night. Pints of Guinness are $8,…

March 12, 20260Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

News People

St. Stephens honors legacy of the Four Chaplains — Interfaith in action

Eighty-three years ago, a Catholic priest, a rabbi, and two ministers taught the world about interfaith unity, civic duty, grace, and courage—sacrificing their lives in the process. Fulfilling the core mission of the Army Chaplain Corps, they served as lieutenants, providing spiritual guidance for soldiers during World War II. …

February 1, 20260Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

Lifestyle News

From sage smoke to Reiki: Inside a modern spiritual apothecary

Christina Platero's childhood was spent around Puerto Rican matriarchal medicine women who used herbs to ease ailments and developed intuition in the metaphysical to tap spirituality. Her heritage is steeped in ancestral indigenous healing and renewal. “When I was a little girl in Puerto Rico, my abuelita used to grow plants, teas, and herbs,”…

January 12, 20260Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

News People

Excellence in science and English: Two Kearny educators recognized by state leaders

Two Franklin School educators have gained recognition for their impact in and out of the Classroom. An avid reader, Mariann Ruhno, 39, was drawn to becoming an English teacher since childhood. “I was the oldest of all my cousins, which blossomed into babysitting, teaching Girl Scouts, book clubs, and volunteering,” she says. “Teaching English…

January 9, 20260Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

News Season

Festive flavors fill Kearny’s bakeries this holiday season

Bakeries and pastry shops across Kearny are serving up winter holiday favorites—from fruity pastries and flavorful Tres Leches cakes to festive cookies and more. Whether Portuguese, Brazilian, or classic sweets, these treats are sure to be a hit at any party or perfect to enjoy on the go. Arcos Pastry Holiday…

December 10, 20250Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

News People

Supportive Kearny English teacher named Educator of Distinction

Samantha Tyrka Sansone plays a pivotal role in her students’ education, inspiring them to develop their unique styles and critical thinking skills. KHS junior Sumaiya Ouali nominated Sansone for the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) Educator of Distinction for her impact. “She explains even the most confusing lesson in a way that…

December 3, 20250Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

News People

Running on faith, Kearny priest embraces the journey

Running is mostly a solitary exercise for Kearny Catholic priest Manuel Duenas. He begins at sunrise, heads south on Passaic Avenue, connects to Belgrove and Midland Avenues, turns left on Schuyler, and treks through North Arlington and Lyndhurst all the way to Route 3, turning left to take the scenic Riverside Avenue route back to…

November 18, 20250Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

Food and Dining Lifestyle People

Curiosity by Nest invites all to come and play

Jessica Barahona, 37, is a Guatemalan immigrant, mother of four, wife, entrepreneur, and advocate for Kearny youth. Her business, Curiosity by Nest – Asian Fusion, is a haven for teens after school, moms meeting up, laptop-carrying remote workers, and more. “Children come for ice cream or other desserts, make friends, and enjoy the lounge…

November 6, 20250Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides

News People

New pharmacy offers personalized service, homeopathic options

Walk into the independently owned City Pharmacy of Kearny, and the marbled floors, sleek shelves, couch seating, and streamlined counters reflect a modern twist on a classic physician’s office. Former barista and budding pharmacy tech Alan Sambrano checks the stock on a laptop. He says Mondays are usually busiest for pharmacies, coinciding with doctor…

November 5, 20250Comments

ByKelly Nicholaides