Northern Valley Press 1.9.23

THE CHEST

SEEKSYOUNG WOMEN LEADERS FORAWARDS

IT O OLLD D S SCCHHOOOOL L

Congratulations to Northern Valley Soccer Club’s U10 girls, landing undefeated their first season in A-flight in the Northern Counties Soccer Association SEE PAGE 12

TEEN FENCERS BRING THE ZING TEEN FENCERS BRING THE ZING

AHA Middle School program powers into 2023

JANUARY 2023

TENAFLY STUDENT MUSICIANS TODAZZLE AT PCAT

Jan. 27

The Community Chest of Eastern Bergen County is accepting applications for its Sixth Annual High School Young Womenʼs Leadership Awards.

This year, three wards will be given to outstanding students identifying as female, enrolled in their junior or senior years, and residing and/or attending a public or private a high school in eastern Bergen County.

Applicants living in and/or attending a school in any of these towns may apply: Alpine, Bergenfield, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Dumont, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Harrington Park, Haworth, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Rockleigh and Tenafly

The Chest says the application deadline is Feb. 1.

Candidates will have demonstrated a passion for leadership, compassion, innovation and the courage of their convictions in the community They are required to complete an online application and present two recommendations. Finalists will be notified and asked to participate in an interview with

APPLY on page 8

TEEN FENCERS Rebecca Cho of Norwood, Lavender Lee of Demarest, and Jane Yu of Old Tappan are demonstrating their

skill in state, national, and international competition.

In fall 2022, these Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School eighth-graders successfully competed at several events with the Top Fencing Club,

T TO O S SEERRVVEE, , P PRROOTTEECCT T

on page 22

The Presbyterian Church at Tenafly hosts a free performance by the Tenafly High School Philharmonic Orchestra — composed of the top players at Tenafly High School — on Jan. 27.

The orchestra counts among is numbers the concertmaster of the New York Youth Symphony, and several All-State, All-Eastern and All-National musicians.

The Tenafly Philharmonic is conducted by Jim Millar, Director of Choirs and Orchestras at Tenafly High School, who has has collaborated with artists from Broadway to the Met and recently conducted the New Jersey All State Orchestra and Choir at New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark.

Among his many musical achievements, Millar has consulted for the Lincoln Center Chamber Music Societyʼs Education Division and is the founder and artistic director of Summer Music in Tuscany, a three-week workshop for singers and instrumentalists, beginner to advanced, in Sarteano, Tuscany.

in time... Bckintime...

Englewood lacked even a jail cell, and had rudimentary policing, yet it’s where an 1873 Sing Sing prison break came to a halt.

Englewood Cliffs swears in two police officers, Christopher Corra and Matthew Maretic, who are off to the academy this month.

DEMAREST

where they work with coaches Seoung-Woo Lee and Hwanhee

NORTHERN VALLEY

ALPINE • CLOSTER • CRESSKILL • DEMAREST • ENGLEWOOD • ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS • HARRINGTON PARK HAWORTH • NORTHVALE • NORWOOD • OLD TAPPAN • ROCKLEIGH • TENAFLY

$5,000 to first-place winner; two junior honors also on offer with scholarships; deadline Feb. 1

Academy of the Holy Angels fencers Rebecca Cho, Lavender Lee, and Jane Yu are climbing to the top in state, national, and international competitions. Inset: AHA fencing beats Passaic County Technical-Vocational Schools, 16-11, in 2019.

Tenafly Philharmonic, brimming with talent, brings free concert

Shelter thanks its supporters

To the editor:

SAVETHE ANIMALS Rescue Team II (START II) is a nonprofit, independent, no-kill, animal rescue group. Our shelter is in Englewood, and our adoption centers are at PetSmart in Wayne and Paramus.

We thank our supporters for their overwhelming generosity in volunteering their time, expertise, and financial support in helping us with recent major renovations to the shelter and its grounds.

Several months ago the group started posting the need for major aid. START II needed new cages, painting, electrical work, fencing, flood repairs, and other maintenance. Following some 45 years on a shoestring, our facility needs grew and took a huge toll on us financially. Our group had no choice but to ask for help from our supporters — no matter the amount, weather it was to sponsor an animal, kick in a generic donation, or for elbow grease and materials.

Volunteers, you have allowed us to continue our mission. Our community once again came together to help us save lives. It had been a massive undertaking, fixing the facility inside and out, which

N

VALLEY P RESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

could not have been possible without your help.

START II, like most animal rescue groups, works in the red but somehow manages to pull through each year even when adoptions and donations are way down. Covid knocked out our daily fundraising completely, as slim as it was to begin with, and we are down fundraiser volunteers. Now START II is recruiting volunteers to help us with fundraising so we can get back on our own two feet — and for cat adoption assistants in our Wayne PetSmart location.

During all this, weʼve been inundated with phone calls from the public, wanting to surrender their animals, due to the economy We also have been flooded with those in need of spay/neuter help. Like other non-profit rescue groups, Save The Animals Rescue Team II pushes for low-cost spay/neuter to the public to reduce pet overpopulation. We pay less, as we take a good number of animals at a time. Many of our participating veterinarians have retired, leaving START II looking for other veterinarians who will help provide lowcost spay/neuter to non-profit groups. With the overflow, this has caused a longer wait time.

We are far from being fancy — we might have hiccups along the way — but the animals that we save are always our number-one priority.

Most people do not know that some of our volunteers pay out of pocket for things that the shelter can't

afford. We have no words to describe the gratitude the group has for all the work that has been donated. We do not want to mention names as we respect the privacy of our supporters, but you know who you are.

DEMAREST

As we embark on 2023, it's with a shared heart full of gratitude for your helping save Save The Animals Rescue Team II. Thereʼs work to be done, and plenty of it. Maybe someone reading this will find it in their heart to pitch in too. May God

Submission deadline: Copy deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday. Publication not guaranteed. Letters must be signed, with town and telephone number. Email us your letter at northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net.

grant us another (more than) 45 years of saving lives in our outstanding community.

Happy New Year, from our home to yours.

Save The Animals Rescue Team II

22 musician-scholars inducted to Tri-M

Chapter 2150 of the Modern Music Masters National Honor Society welcomed 22 top musicians from the Academy of the Holy Angels on Dec. 2, 2022 in a Tri-M induction featuring a miniconcert showcasing each new memberʼs talents.

Inductees are saxophonist Catherine Raimondi of River Edge; clarinetist Marina Poire of Dumont; violinist Chelsey Park of Palisades Park; handbell ringer Emily Kim of Englewood Cliffs; pianists Christina Hur of Closter,

Caitlyn Liau of Tenafly, and Kaitlyn Zheng of Englewood; flutists Haedyn Brigati of Englewood Cliffs, Chloe Hahn of Cresskill, Sarahsihu Kim of Englewood, and Anna Park of Fort Lee; and vocalists Martine Alvarez of Chestnut Ridge (N.Y.), Audrey Collins and Rachelle Wu of Harrington Park, Mia Diaz of North Bergen, Alyssa Finch of River Vale, Eleanor Finnegan of Pearl River (N.Y.), Kate Kim and Scarlett Shim of Palisades Park, Kiera Kwiatkowski of Glen Ridge, Charlotte Lasaga of Hobo-

ken, and Kira Sullivan of Teaneck.

Members of Tri-M must demonstrate musical accomplishment, scholarship, character, leadership, and service to others.

AHA Performing Arts Director Daniel Mahoney told Northern Valley Press, “This is the first time so many ninth graders are being inducted into Tri-M, which ensures growth through their four years at Holy Angels.”

He added, “Plant a seed, reap a musical harvest.”

Sounds smart to us! Twenty-two top musicians from the Academy of the Holy Angels were inducted, Dec. 2, 2022, into Tri-M Music Honors Society.

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

NORTHERN VALLEY

Twelve of the 14 towns comprising the Northern Valley will be receiving nearly $1.3 million in matching Bergen County Open Space grant funds, most requiring an equal match of local funds to acquire open space as well as create and improve parks and recreational facilities.

The towns will be splitting a total of $1,257,972 in county grant funds. The grant awards were approved by the Bergen County Commissioners at the Dec. 14, 2022 meeting.

A public hearing on the recommendations was held in midOctober by the county Trust Fund Advisory Committee to solicit public comment on the grant projects and estimated grant awards.

Total county Open Space funds awarded include $757,377 to six Pascack Valley towns, plus $1,257,972 to 12 Northern Valley towns for a total of $2,015,349 to 18 towns.

In the Northern Valley, only Alpine and Englewood did not receive county grant funds.

The town receiving the largest Northern Valley grant was Englewood Cliffs, with $124,210 for field and playground improvements at Witte Field, including ADA equipment, a dog park, and a pavilion, as listed on the grant award press release.

Mayor Mario Kranjac told Northern Valley Press, “I am very pleased that the residents of Englewood Cliffs are finally receiving back funds for their benefit, and I am hopeful that our council deploys these funds in a timely manner with improvements being completed in 2023.”

On its website, the borough shows a Colliers Engineering & Design concept plan for Witte Field recreation improvements, with a home page link to drawings and cost estimates. The total package of Witte field improvements is estimated at approximately $3.75 million, which includes a new artificial turf field.

Additional enhancements such as lighting for basketball and tennis courts at $650,000, and milling/paving, fencing, poles, backboards, and more for around $250,000, are also listed on the plan.

In addition to the 2022 grant, the borough received county Open Space grants in 2020 and 2021, for $129,527 and $127,125, respec-

tively, for the Witte Field upgrades.

In addition to Englewood Cliffs, other towns receiving grants included:

• Closter: Ruckman Park: Tennis and pickleball court lighting installation: $87,038.

• Cresskill: Recreational Complex: Pickleball court, walkway, benches: $75,000.

• Demarest: Passive Recreation Project: Walking path, pavilion, benches: $46,793.

• Harrington Park: Street Tennis Courts: Reconstruction of two remaining tennis courts: $87,038.

• Haworth: Haworth Swim Club: Picnic area pavers,concrete, tables, seating, and pavilion: $50,000.

• Northvale: Veterans Park Dog Park Project: Bag dispensers, fence gate, benches, fencing: $22,597.

• Norwood: Kennedy Park: Replace baseball field fencing, shade trees, park benches: $87,038.

• Old Tappan: Old Tappan Golf Course: New underground irrigation system: $85,001.

• Rockleigh: Borough Hall Lot: Drainage improvements for walking and hiking trail safety: $87,038.

• Teaneck: Phelps Park: Replacement of wading pool with new splash pad: $87,038.

• Tenafly: Swim Club: Security cameras, raised flower beds, fencing, skate park, fountains: $87,038.

“Open Space grants play a crucial role in helping to maintain quality of life in Bergen County. The recommended project awards range in the following categories including open space acquisition, floodplain protection, historic preservation improvements, and improvements to County and municipal park facilities,” said county spokesperson Lucine Beylerian.

“The Board of Commissioners continues to prioritize quality open space to maximize recreation areas accessible to all Bergen County residents,” said Bergen County Commissioner Steve Tanelli, of North Arlington, in a statement.

The Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Public Advisory Committee is charged with determining the annual list of projects to be recommended to the Commissioners for funding as well as the amount that should be awarded for each project.

County officials said most towns received less than requested, due to the number of requests.

Bergen County Commissioners voted unanimously on Wednesday, ec. 14, to approve the list of proj-

ects recommended for funding by the Bergen County Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection,

SHARE YOUR VINTAGE PHOTOS

NORTHERN VALLEY

Those old black and white photos have been sitting in the drawer for decades. Give those treasures more love by sharing them with your neighbors on this page.

Northern Valley Press welcomes old photographs depicting scenes in any of the towns in the region: Alpine, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Harrington Park, Haworth, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Rockleigh and Tenafly.

Specifically, we’re looking for materials dating to the 1970s and earlier. These can be photos of local buildings, notable people, homes, streets, parks, stores, special events — you name it. Old advertisements for businesses in the Northern Valley are also most welcome.

The submissions are sought for publication in the weekly “Back in Time” local history feature, which appears to the right of this column.

Photographs can be submitted by scanning the photo or taking a good digital photo (the highest resolution possible to facilitate clear printing) and emailing a copy of the photographs along with some detailed information to northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net

Geet t t thhe e R Reessuulltts s

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Prison break ended in Englewood

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER FOR NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

NGLEWOOD WASNOT yet a city, there was only the most rudimentary of police protection, and there wasnʼt even a headquarters or jail cell in town. And yet, itʼs where an 1873 Sing Sing prison break came to a screeching halt.

The convictsʼ method of escape was like something out of a movie. Incarcerated at New Yorkʼs maximum-security state prison on the eastern bank of the Hudson up in Ossining, four men serving sentences for burglary made a run for the wintry wilderness on Jan. 16, 1873.

Among the men was Andrew Riley, who had served half of his second five-year sentence for breaking into cars on the Hudson River Railroad. Daniel Bland, 20, John Marion, 19, and Charles Wilson were also in for burglary. Bland had the longest left to serve, with seven years to go on a nine-year sentence.

The men had been working in a shop on the prison grounds, in a building detached from the cell block. It was a particularly foggy afternoon on the Hudson River, and the river itself was frozen over for the first time in 12 years.

While being marched from the shop back to the main prison building, all at once the four men ran off a dock and jumped onto the ice, starting on a full run to the opposite side of the frozen river. It would be discovered later that the men had actually put spikes on the bottom of their shoes to facilitate their sprint across the ice.

A wave of prison guards swept down toward the riverbank and shot at the fleeing prisoners, but to no avail. One bullet did go through Marionʼs hat, but he was not injured. A guard was able to run down and overtake only Wil-

SERVING: Alpine, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Harrington Park, Haworth, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Rockleigh & Tenafly.

son, while the other three men escaped into the fog, across the river and into the wooded hills of the opposite shore. The prison put out an alarm to towns up and down the Hudson River.

The men were on the lam for only a single day before Marshal William Hill of the Englewood Protection Society picked them up with the help of a citizen, about a mile south of downtown Englewood.

The Poughkeepsie Eagle News printed a fascinating account from one of the men— Riley, the railroad bandit—starting with their escape across the ice.

“We ran till we were completely out of breath and could hardly put one leg before the other. At last we gained the opposite shore and climbed up the Palisades. The rocks were very slip-

Sing Sing in the 1870s. The Hudson River, in the background, was frozen over in the winter of 1873. On Jan. 16, prisoners dashed across the ice to the hills beyond.

Setting the scene: An early photograph snapped on the New Jersey Palisades.

A typical cell in Sing Sing prison.

As approved at the board of education on Dec. 12, 2022 this is the schedule of public meetings (work sessions and regular meetings) for the year.

Most meetings begin with a closed session at approximately 7:15 p.m., and an open session immediately following at approximately 8 at the Hegelein Building, 500 Tenafly Road. (Reorganization and retreats begin at 6 p.m.)

Meeting dates and times are subject to change.

• Wednesday, Jan. 4, reorganization of the board

•Monday, Jan. 9 work session

•Monday, Jan. 23 regular public meeting

•Monday, Feb. 13 work session

• Wednesday, Feb. 22 budget retreat

•Monday, Feb. 27 regular public meeting

• Monday, March 13 preliminary budget/work session

•Monday, March 20 regular public meeting

•Monday, April 17 work session

•Monday, April 24 final budget hearing/regular public meeting

• Monday, May 15 work session

• Monday, May 22 regular pub-

NORTHERN VALLEY

Get in on volunteering to teach ESL

Make a difference in your community: volunteer to teach English as a Second Language! Since 1982, Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley has been training volunteers to teach English to adults in their community.

This online workshop is run by certified trainers and the program is an accredited member of the national organization, Proliteracy. Upon completion of the workshop, LVPV will match each volunteer with an appropriate student.

The workshop is open to residents of Allendale, Cresskill, Dumont, Emerson, Franklin Lakes, Hillsdale, Montvale, Paramus, Park Ridge, Ramsey, River Vale, and Westwood.

Tutoring may be remote or in person, depending on your preference. The workshop will cover the use of virtual technology for tutoring purposes.

Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley is pleased to announce the next online 4-session Tutor Training Workshop on Oct. 25 and Nov. 1, 8, and 15 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Volunteers must be 18 or older.

To register, write Marilyn Katz/Cheryl Chang at literacyvolunteerspv@gmail.com or visit literacyvolunteerspv.org/tutor-training-workshopform.html.

lic meeting

• Monday, June 12 work session

• Monday, June 19 regular public meeting

• Monday, July 24 work session

•Monday, July 31 regular public meeting

•Monday, Aug. 21 work session

• Monday, Aug. 28 regular public meeting

•Monday, Sept. 11 work session

• Wednesday, Sept. 20 board retreat

•Tuesday, Sept. 26 regular public meeting

• Monday, Oct. 16 work session

•Monday, Oct. 23 regular public meeting

•Wednesday, Nov. 1 board retreat*

• Monday, Nov. 13 work session

•Monday, Nov. 20 regular public meeting

•Monday, Dec. 4 work session

•Monday, Dec. 11 regular public meeting

•Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024 reorganization of the board

On November 28, Frank Lucianna, a decorated war hero and iconic criminal attorney, passed away at age 99, surrounded by his loving family. His presence will be missed in the Bergen County Courtroom as well as at Englewoodʼs Veteransʼand Memorial Day Services, where he always spoke passionately about his love of America.

Lucianna led a remarkable life. After graduating Dwight Morrow High School in 1941, he enlisted in the U.S Army Infantry and Air Force and served as a flight engineer on A B-24 Bomber in the 15th Air Force and fought battles in Italy and Germany. He received numerous awards, including the Distinguished Service Medal and 4 bronze stars.

After completing his military service, Lucianna attended Fordham Collage and Fordham Law School. He was admitted into the New York Bar, Federal Court of New York, Second Circuit of Appeals, New York, Third Circuit Court of Appeals and the New

Lucianna

Luciannaʼs trials to learn from him, and he was a great inspiration to his 2 daughters, Nancy and Diane, who

with him in his law firm, Lucianna and Lucianna. He was also a devoted husband to his wife of 67 years, Dolores.

A statewide poll cited him as one of the best criminal lawyers in New Jersey and he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Bergen County Bar Association.

Lucianna forged inroads in legal history, such as establishing the “Battered Wife Syndrome” as a legal defense that subsequently became U.S. law. This case led to his role as a defense lawyer in the

1985 film, “Battered Wives, Shattered Lives.” He also appeared on television providing commentary on the O.J. Simpson trial.

Lucianna was a star not only in the courtroom and the military, but also on the running field. From 1990 through 2000, he was rated one of the top runners nationwide in the 800 and 1500-meter run, and he ranked 22nd in the world in the 800 meter run.

In Englewood, Lucianna spoke every year at the cityʼs Memorial and Veterans Day Services. His voice was filled with such pride and emotion that spectators were often reduced to tears.

As a photojournalist for the Northern Valley Press, I was fortunate to hear him speak in these events that I was covering for the paper, and in 2016, I did an interview with him that was featured in my book, “Extraordinary Englewood.” I was especially moved when he raised his hand to his heart and said, “During the war, I saw so much death and destruction. I lost 14 of my good friends and saw near-death Holocaust survivors whose families had been ripped from them. In my law practice, as well, I have seen a lot of tragedy. This has made me thankful for all that I have and for the blessing of being an American. God bless America!”

Reported by Hillary Viders

Jersey and United States Supreme Court.

practiced law for 71 years, during which time he represented thousands of criminal defendants, including judges, mayors,

lawyers, politicians, priests, rabbis and ministers. He loved the law profession, and his energy and expertise dazzled his peers as well as his clients.

Other attorneys attended

worked

PHOTOSBY HILLARY VIDERS

Black women, suffragists mural revealed in celebration

The Northern New Jersey Community Foundationʼs (NNJCF) ArtsBergen hosted the official public reveal of “The Black Womenʼs Mural” painted by artist Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, in a celebration at the Womenʼs Rights Information Center (WRIC) on Nov. 14, 2022.

The mural, at 108 West Palisade Ave. on the WRICʼs east-facing wall in downtown Englewood was designed with the participation and feedback from Englewood Black women and the communityat-large gleaned in several public workshops.

(See “Celebrating Black women,” Northern Valley Press, November 2022, page 1.)

The mural features Black women leaders from the past and the present. These leaders include suffragist Ida B. Wells; Dr. Josie Carter, an original member of the Womenʼs Rights Information Centerʼs board of directors; and activists protesting segregation at the cityʼs Lincoln Elementary School. Other people shown are Hali Cooper, an Engle-

suffragists in the Black Girls Empowerment workshop hosted by Arts Horizon. Their artwork was also displayed at the celebration.

The NNJCFʼs ArtsBergen initiative oversaw, fundraised and facilitated the project.

According to Danielle De Laurentis, associate director, Northern New Jersey Community Foundation, “The success of this project was evident by the faces in the crowd full of pride and even some tears.”

She said, “The Black Womenʼs Mural beautifies downtown Englewood and is an expression of the voices, culture, and stories of the Black suffragists and Black woman of the city. The artwork elevates the value of their activism and generates ownership of place.”

She added, “It was a pleasure to work with our partners — The Womenʼs Rights Information Center, Metro Community Center, and the Womanʼs Club of Englewood — and members of the community, who each played a role in making the project a success.”

“What are you willing to do to make change? asked Corcoran, executive director of the Womenʼs Rights Information Center. “People suffered to give us these rights. Everyone can do something.”

Wisner, treasurer of the Womenʼs Club of Englewood, said, “If a picture is worth a thousand words, we have been given a history book.”

Oct. 28–Nov. 11, 2022, the public came and watched Fazlalizadeh paint the mural on the Womenʼs Rights Information Centerʼs building.

Filming of a video, sponsored by the Womanʼs Club of Englewood and the Teaneck Englewood And Vicinity Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Womenʼs Clubs Inc., documented the project and mural process, as a memorable event in womenʼs history in Englewood.

The major supporters for the project included the Northern NJ Community Foundation, AARP New Jersey, Valley Bank, Sozosei Foundation, Visions Federal Credit Union, Age-Friendly Englewood, and PNC Bank.

Learn more about the project on the NNJCFʼs website, https://bit.ly/AARPCommunityGrant and bit.ly/3qpZvTG

About Northern New Jersey Community Foundation

Bergen County, New Jersey that supports and encourages creative placemaking, the practice of integrating arts and culture into a neighborhood, town, or region to build community and livability and boost local economy.

The initiativeʼs mission is to

energize and unify Bergen County artists and arts organizations and connect the communities in the region to the arts.

For more information, visit nnjcf.org, write nnjcf@nnjcf.org, or call (201) 568-5608.

wood resident, who walked in the Black Lives Matter march and Kia S. Thornton Miller, whose family has lived in Englewood for several generations, and her daughter Toni Michelle Miller, a ninth grade student at Bergen County Technical Schools.

Black Womenʼs Mural Revealed

The mural celebrates Black womenʼs voices, raises awareness about Black suffragists, and encourages civil discourse within the community. The mural sparked pride recognizing and honoring the Black communityʼs contributions through a large-scale public artwork located in the center of one of the busiest downtowns in Bergen County.

Sixth- to ninth-graders from Englewood created mini-murals inspired by the bravery of the Black

De Laurentis said the Northern New Jersey Community Foundationʼs ArtsBergen looks forward to continuing its work with the community and the City to create more meaningful public art.

Several leaders from the community spoke about the merits and the completion of this special project driven by Englewood Black women and the Black suffragists, who inspired them.

Speakers included De Laurentis, Fazlalizadeh, Lil Corcoran from the Womenʼs Rights Information Center, Jacqueline Wisner from the Womanʼs Club of Englewood, Peggy King Jorde from King Jorde Culturals, Lynne Algrant from the NNJCFʼs Board of Directors, Lauren Nance from the League of Women Voters of New Jersey, Englewood Mayor Michael Wildes,

Founded in 1998, the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation (NNJCF), a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization based in Hackensack, New Jersey, focuses primarily on civic engagement, education, public health, the environment, philanthropy, and the arts.

The NNJCF works with local governments, school districts, businesses, non-profit organizations, and citizen groups in Northern New Jersey to improve community life.

The Foundationʼs partners identify and resolve regional problems and opportunities by talking and learning from each other and sharing ideas, best practices, services, and resources.

About ArtsBergen ArtsBergen, an initiative of the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation, is an arts alliance in

Englewood Councilman Charles Cobb, and Englewood resident Toni Michelle Miller.

See the mural at 108 West Palisade Ave.on the WRIC’s east-facing wall in downtown Englewood.

Artist Tatyana Fazlalizadeh painted finishing touches on “The Black Women’s Mural”in Englewood.Photos:Sam Lee

FROM PAGE 1

the application review committee.

The Community Chestʼs High School Senior Young Womenʼs Leadership Awards provide a $5,000 award to one first placer winner. High school seniors who identify as female may complete an

online application available at thecommunitychestebc.org

The Chest is also giving a Junior Young Womanʼs Leadership Award. Two winners will each be awarded a scholarship to the Bergen VolunteersʼTeen LEADS program and an opportunity to participate in an internship with a local nonprofit

during the school year or summer. Applicants must complete and submit an application at thecommunitychestebc.org

Through a highly competitive process, applications will be reviewed by an esteemed group of women leaders, who have volunteered to judge the applications.

The winners receive a certificate memorializing their award to include in their college admissions packet.

They are also invited to attend a celebration and meet local women leaders from the public and private sectors.

The Legacy of the Elizabeths

The leadership award honors the legacy of the three Elizabeths: Elizabeth Cutter Morrow, Elizabeth Morrow Morgan, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

During the Great Depression, Elizabeth Cutter Morrow, an Englewood resident, became the founding board chair of The Community Chest.

Elisabeth Morrow Morgan, the founder of The Elisabeth Morrow School, grew up in Englewood.

Tenafly resident Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a leader in the suffragist movement.

Support

The Community Chest welcomes donations from the public to recognize the work of these young women. Contributions of any amount to support the awards may be sent by check with payment made out to The Community Chest, 122 South Van Brunt Street, Englewood, NJ 07631. Visit The Chestʼs website, thecommunitychestebc.org, for more information about the Young Womanʼs Leadership Award and the organizationʼs mission and work.

For more information about

the Young Womanʼs Leadership Award, call Executive Director Dr. Shelly Wimpfheimer at (201) 5687474.

About The Community Chest

Founded in 1933, The Community Chest, a nonprofit, taxexempt organization, has supported local not-for-profit agencies for nearly 90 years.

The Chest leads initiatives and supports nonprofits that make our communities stronger and benefit people in need in eastern Bergen County. Each year, The Chest raises funds and allocates them to agencies demonstrating the capacity to provide services to local citizens. The organization also provides coordinating and planning services in its communities, serving as a bridge between agencies and organizations and investing in the stability and quality of the service network.

Elizabeth Cutter Morrow, The Community Chest of Eastern Bergen County’s founding chair of the Board of Managers,whose leaders hip legacy continues with the Young Women’s Leadership Awards.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton,a Tenafly suffragist,whose legacy continues with the Young Women’s Leadership Awards.

Elisabeth Morrow Morgan,founder of The Elisabeth Morrow School,whose legacy continues with the Young Women’s Leadership Awards.

The Englewood Cliffs Police Department is proud to announce the swearing in of its newest officers, Christopher Corra and Matthew Maretic, on Dec. 22, 2022.

Members of the police department, and Mayor Mario Kranjac, attended the swearing-in ceremony. The honorable Carolina Calderon administered the oath

of office to the new officers.

Officer Corra, a Township of Washington resident, had been a dispatcher with the Ho-Ho-Kus Police Department.

Officer Maretic, a Closter resident, was a collegiate swimmer and worked for a family owned and operated business. Officers Corra and Maretic were selected after a comprehensive hiring

process, consisting of a written examination, physical assessment, and thorough background investigation.

The officers will attend the police academy at the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute this month.

N

welcomes press releases,birth announcements, wedding announcements and event photographs from all towns in the Northern Valley.

Send your news to northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net

Photo by D/Lt. Ronald F Waldt, Englewood Cliffs Police Department

Englewood Cliffs swears in two new police officers Dec. 22, 2022.

BY HILLARY VIDERS FOR NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

On December 18, the City of Englewood held its annual celebration of Chanukah, the Jewish holiday called “The Festival of Lights,” and hundreds of families participated in the joyous festival in front of City Hall.

The Chanukah commemoration was a spectacular communitywide celebration hosted by the Chabad of Englewood under the leadership of Rabbi Shmuel

Konikov, who arrived with over two dozen members of his congregation.

Sponsors of Englewoodʼs Chanukah event were the City of Englewood, Englewood SID, Starbucks and Hummus Elite.

Many community leaders attended the festivities, including Mayor Michael Wildes, Englewood Council Members Charles Cobb, Wayne Hamer, Judith Maron, Dr. Kenneth Rosenzweig, Councilwoman Elect Dr. Lisa Wisotsky, Police Chief Thomas Greeley, Fire Department Chief Jeff Kaplan and

The Chanukah tradition of lighting the Menorah was amplified by a brilliant LED Menorah as well as a traditional one.

Adding to the festive backdrop was a performer on stilts, another performer dressed as large Styrofoam dreidel (a 4-sided toy that children spin) and a huge LED robot.

As attendees ate jelly donuts and “latkes”, i.e., fried potato pancakes - traditional Chanukah treats -

they were entertained by singers in the Performing Arts School at bergenPAC and the Moriah School Choir.

What is Chanukah?

Chanukah is a Jewish holiday of great historical significance. It commemorates the rededication of Jerusalemʼs Holy Temple, which was reclaimed by a small group of Jews called the Maccabees from the much more powerful Syrian Greek Army of King Antiochus IV of Syria in 164 BC (“Chanukah means

“rededication” in Hebrew).

The ancient story relates that after the Maccabees took back the temple, they found only enough oil there to light the temple for one night. Yet, miraculously, the oil kept the temple lit for eight nights in a row. Since then, Jews have commemorated this miracle by lighting a single candle on the Menorah on the first night of Chanukah, then two on the second night, and so on, until all eight can-

Northern New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President Carol Rauscher.

The daughters of this jubilant family wore light-up Menorah headbands.

Englewood Mayor Michael Wildes and Rabbi Shmuel Konikov ushered in the Jewish holiday of Chanukah.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

When facing the daunting reality that a New Yearʼs resolution has been a fiasco for years, a natural gem comes to the rescue. *

JANUARYISHERE, and to me, that means bitter cold, horrific New Yearʼs resolutions — and my birthday. It used to be that at least that last one put a smile on my face. But as the years march on, I canʼt even say that anymore.

For the past few Januaries, I have asked myself:

• How am I ever going to survive this hideous weather until spring?

•Do I have any hope of keeping my resolution for at least a respectable amount of time?

•Good God, how can I possibly be another year older already?

By Tara McCann

Another study, by Foursquare and Citylab, reassures me that Iʼm not alone there either: Tracking gym and fast food activity, the study discovered that Feb. 9, just 40 days into the New Year, has statistically been “doomsday.” Thatʼs the day when, for many, driving along the highway to fitness comes to a

It dawns on me that probably the last time I passionately enjoyed exercising was back in 2009, when I lived in Park City, Utah. Park City hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics and is home to world-class skiing and snowboarding. Give me a few extra hand warmers and another layer of thermal socks, and I realize now that I didnʼt even mind the bitter cold then so long as I was on the slopes. I went out almost every day for a few hours (or more) of downhill skiing and relished every second. I was at my healthiest then. I didnʼt even realize I was exercising.

Thatʼs when I had my aha moment: Why am I forcing myself to use the elliptical when instead I could partake in another passion of mine: hiking!

When I think about hiking, beautiful views and being in nature spring to mind first. But the health benefits of hiking shouldnʼt be overlooked. Hiking is a great workout for the legs (especially when tackling steep inclines). Wearing a backpack while navigating terrain strengthens the core. The longer the hike the more stamina and endurance one builds.

And itʼs the ultimate cardio workout: though it is primarily known as a low-intensity workout, (meaning every calorie you burn is mostly from fat), challenges along the way such as maintaining balance or climbing hills will also allow for those much-needed highintensity moments.

with the Tappan Zee (or the Governor Mario M. Cuomo) Bridge visible to the north and the Manhattan skyline to the south.

Birdwatchers collectively gather in search of the rare gryfalcon — the largest falcon in the world — that has visited there, or to monitor the migration of raptors.

around them to make into a public park.

One of my New Yearʼs resolution to remain a constant is getting more exercise. A quick Google search shows Iʼm not alone. NPR and the Marist institute conducted a survey in 2018 that found that exercise is the most popular resolution in the United States. For me, it also has remained a constant bust.

screeching halt.

I know that the key to consistent exercise is liking what you do. My son, for instance, absolutely loves the gym. He races there as I drag my feet. So it should come as no surprise that he racks up many more “retro rewards” than I will ever see.

I have lived in many places and have had the opportunity to hike different areas of the United States. When I moved to Bergen County I was thrilled to discover incredible hikes right here at home. ***

ONE OF MY FAVORITEHAUNTS almost never was. The State Line Lookout in Alpine is where quite a few trailheads begin for the Palisades Interstate Park. On any given day, people will come to the lookout for the Hudson River views

And then there are people like me, hikers, who have the New Jersey State Federation of Womenʼs Clubs to thank. It was this organization that in 1897 realized the danger that the Palisades faced. By the latter part of the 1800s, many large quarries had taken up an unwelcome residence there. The companies were blasting the magnificent cliffs for gravel for roads or stone for concrete. Thousands of cubic yards of rock were being demolished daily

The Englewood Womenʼs Club was the first to take up the cause of saving the Palisades, and soon convinced the New Jersey State Federation of Womenʼs Clubs to help in their fight. And fight they did. The women convinced both the states of New Jersey and New York to shut down the quarries and acquire the cliffs and the land

Today there are more than 30 miles of trails to hike, ranging from the easy to the extremely challenging. Snow and ice can close some of the trails — donʼt even think of attempting “The Giant Stairs” if any of these conditions exist. I donʼt know how I get duped into doing this hike every spring when I had just promised myself the year before, never again. But many trails remain open in winter.

A trail I often enjoy when time is tight is the Womenʼs Federation Monument. This hike leads you to a “castle” overlooking the Hudson River.

The “castle” was dedicated to the womenʼs clubs that saved the Palisades. The dedication ceremony took place on April 30, 1929 and a plaque commemorates that day. I like to go there and use that location to enjoy a snack while sitting on a rock overlooking the Hudson. I say a quiet thank you to the ladies who fought so hard to allow us the opportunity to enjoy this natural beauty It makes me

Landmark lookout: The “castle”was dedicated to the women’s clubs that saved the Palisades. Tara McCann photo The Women’s Federation Monument hike leads

the Hudson River. Tara McCann photo

Christmas in Bergen County a joyous spectacle

BY HILLARY VIDERS FOR NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

Christmas throughout Bergen County was a spectacle to behold. In dozens of towns and boroughs, streets and retail stores were sparkling with colored lights and homes displayed beautiful decorations. There was also an array of festive parades and parties.

Two of the most spectacular Christmas celebrations were those in Englewood and Tenafly.

ENGLEWOODʼS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

In Englewood, December 3rd marked the annual lighting of the enormous Christmas tree on Van Brunt Street in front of City Hall on Dec. 3. Dozens of residents and visitors to this festive event were joined by Englewood Councilmen

Charles Cobb and Wayne Hamer, Police Chief Thomas Greeley, Fire Chief Jeff Kaplan and Englewoodʼs 4th Platoon Firefighters, Carol Rauscher, Director of North New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, and of course, jolly Old Nick himself.

The area was bursting with spectacular colors and music. There were special performances by the St. Paulʼs Choir School led by Julia Utz and The Performing Arts School at bergenPAC led by Amelia DeMayo.

The children were delighted by a magician as well as print making sponsored by One River School and a book giveaway by the Englewood Pubic Library.

Chief Greeley remarked, “We love being a part of any event that brings our community together and it was really nice to see such a great turnout!”

UNDEFEATED!

CONGRATULATIONS TO the Northern Valley Soccer Club U10 Girls team, coached by Vinny Aiello, who knocked out an undefeated season with a record of 7-0-3 in their first season in the highest flight (A flight) in the Northern Counties Soccer Association. Aiello tells Northern Valley Press the secret to the teamʼs success is “their dedication and commitment to their training and their passion for the game of soccer.”

The Northern Valley Soccer Club (NVSC) was founded in the 1990s as an answer to the burgeoning youth soccer club explosion that took place in the surrounding communities. The club is based in the towns of Harrington Park, Northvale, Norwood, and Old Tappan. All training sessions and games take place within the four towns.

The goal of NVSC is “to provide clear and consistent player development pathways from our youth set up into our highly successful boys and girls high school soccer programs at NVOT.”

TENAFLYʼS WINTER PARADE AND PARTY

Another wonderful Christmas event was Tenaflyʼs multi-cultural Winter Parade and Party, “Celebrating our Differences Together,” featuring many cultures and holiday traditions.

The festivities began on December 8 at 6:00, as parade participants met at Oresko Oval on Tenafly Road, where they were joined by Tenafly Councilmen Jeff Grossman and Venugopal Menon, State Assemblywoman Sharma Haider, Christine Evron, President of the Tenafly Chamber of Commerce and Hercules Invictus, the eveningʼs Master of Ceremonies, who is known as Tenaflyʼs Herald of New Business. mythic personality, author and podcaster There were also many special guests at the party.

The group marched behind a fire truck to Huyler Park on County Road to join the spectacular community-wide event that brought together dozens of residents - family, friends and neighbors - from every part of town.

At Huyler Park, there was stirring singing by the Tenafly High School Madrigal Singers directed by James Miller and a solo performance by Barbara Heller. There were words of inspiration by Reverend Lynne Weber, Pastor at the Church of Atonement, and a Mus-

lim prayer by Dr Asma Sadiq, who explained the connection between the Koran and Judaism.

Sparky, the Tenafly fire dog mascot, was on hand posing for photos and helping Santa distribute gift bags to the children.

A group of Tenafly High School Key Club students manned a table filled with cookies and hot chocolate.

Hercules Invictus presented flowers to the luminaries and thanked the groups that sponsored the celebration. In his remarks, he acknowledged the Christian, Muslim and Jewish holidays.

“It has been said that in Tenafly we celebrate our differences together, and it's true! I'm greatly honored to be part of this annual event and to be living in such an inclusive community. I love and look forward to learning about how others in my borough celebrate their Holiday Season!”

The many Christmas events which welcomed residents as well as guests from all over demonstrated the diversity and inclusiveness of Bergen County

Photos by Hillar y Viders

Key club members giving out hot chocolate and cookies at Tenafly’s winter party.

Tenafly winter party with Santa and the Madrigal singers.

Englewood students enjoyed the spirit of Christmas.

NORTHERN VALLEY

—Staff report

Vinny Aiello

Coach Vinny Aiello in a Northern Valley Press illustration.Aiello says his 10U girls demonstrate their commitment to training.

Kickin’ it: Front to back,left to right:Willow Loiaza,Hannah Murphy,Selena Cabrera,Ellie Rinaldi,Tierney Waldron Adelina Porto,Carmel Gibb,Giuliana Aiello,Dilan Sara Demir,Nadine Affoumado,Katie Pawlowski,Hanna Kim.Not pictured are trainer Callie Bohus and coaches Daniel Gibb and Bill Murphy.

E S S

Englewood swears in new councilmembers

BY HILLARY VIDERS FOR NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

On the evening of Jan. 3, the City of Englewood held its reorganization meeting during which two new Council Members were sworn in - Dr. Lisa Wisotsky of the 2nd Ward and Kevin A. Wilson of the 4th Ward.

The event took place at the Englewood Municipal Courthouse on 73 S. Van Brunt Street and it was attended by over 200 residents and guests.

Dignitaries present included Senator Gordon Johnson, Mayor Michael Wildes, Former Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle, former

Mayor Frank Huttle. Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Zur, Englewood Chief of Police Thomas Greeley, City Manager Robert Hoffman and Englewood Council Members Dr. Kenneth Rosenzweig, Charles Cobb, Judith Maron and incoming council members Dr. Lisa Wisotsky and Kevin Wilson.

Dr. Lisa Wisotsky is a 28-year Englewood resident, mother of five children, grandmother of two, and a physician who holds a Masterʼs Degree in Public Health.

Wisotskyʼs commitment and involvement with the City is longstanding. She was a member of Englewoodʼs Planning Board for the

last four years. She served for twelve years on the Englewood Board of Health where she was a Past President. She is also a former President of the Rotary Club of Englewood where she was instrumental in starting Englewoodʼs Teens for Peace Program, bringing together students from all five of Englewoodʼs middle schools to explore issues of community, diversity, engagement, and equity, and is the founder and former President of the Friends of the John T. Wright Arena, which helped set up programs to ensure all children in Englewood have an opportunity to skate.

Wistosky has also served on the boards of Englewoodʼs Congregation Ahavath Torah and the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center.

Wisotsky was sworn in by Senator Gordon Johnson.

Kevin Wilson has served as an Englewood Firefighter for 28 years. He is the Founding President of the Jabari Society, the international organization that helps young men become firefighters.

Wilson is also a Co-founder of From the Ground Up in partnership with the Urban League that identified and employed young men to assist in building the Jack Drakeford Fire Station.

He is a former VP of Relief Organization that provides financial support to the families of fallen firefighters.

Wilson was sworn in by Valerie Vainierei Huttle.

Both new council members were surrounded by family members as they were sworn in.

Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem, an invocation and the Swearing In ceremony, there were numerous items on the reorganization meeting agenda, including a Moment of Silence in honor of former Mayor Sondra Greenberg who recently passed away, Mayor Michael Wildesʼs State of the City Address, the election of the Council President, the election and swearing in of the new Council

President Judith Maron, remarks from the City Council and dignitaries, a Public Session and several administrative procedures.

The mood of the evening was upbeat, as reflected in this exuberant excerpt from Mayor Wildesʼ speech:

“Let us look at 2023 as the year of accomplishment, the year of progress, the year that like never before - we moved Englewood forward for all its residents!”

Photos by Hillar y Viders

Kevin Wilson is sworn in by Valerie Vainieri Huttle as his wife, Monica, holds the Bible.

Dr. Lisa Wisotsky is sworn in by Senator Gordon Johnson.

S Sc c h h o o ol l N e w s

NORTHERN VALLEY

DEAN’S LIST AND MORE: STUDENTACHIEVEMENT

NORTHERN VALLEY

PRESS

salutesthe Northern Valleyʼs high-achieving alumni of our area high schools. Hereʼs what theyʼve been up to lately, according to their schools and families…

• Jacob DiMartini of Harr ington Park graduated after majoring in theater and politics at Bates College in Lewiston, M aine. DiMartini, the son of R obert DiMartini and Bridget DiMartini, is a 2018 graduate of Northern Valley Regional High School. Bates College graduated 477 students from 39 U.S. states and 40 nations on May 29, 2022.

• Jayden Vicioso of Englewood enrolled at the University of Findlay for fall 2022. New students began their studies at UF on Aug. 15. Vicioso is pursuing a degree in animal science.

• Lehigh University is thrilled to officially welcome the Class of 2026. The incoming class represents an accomplished, diverse group of students who represent 44 U.S. states and territories and 32 countries. Congratulations to these new Mountain Hawks, including Daniel Levine of Tenafly, Emily Holzer of Closter, Gretchen Haray of Haworth, Matt Lindley of Harrington Park, Ellyana Garrett of

Tenafly, Ashley Yoon of Closter, Mason Goldstein of Alpine, Allie C allahan o f Harrington Park, Nicole Sinde of Englewood, Cayla Newman of Cresskill, Austin Ha of Cresskill, Ryan Lee of Englewood Cliffs, Natalie Simotas of Alpine, and Kaila Cohen of OId Tappan.

• Joshua Lee of Englewood Cliffs earned a Doctor of Philosophy in robotics from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. Lee was among approximately 1,660 undergraduate and graduate students who earned degrees during the summer 2022 semester.

•“The Threepenny Opera” came to the stage of Muhlenberg College with an iconic score, powerful scenic design, and an anti-capitalistic diatribe. Zachary Arencibia of Old Tappan was a member of the cast in the production that director James Peck describes as “The Godfather” meets “The Office.” The show ran Oct. 28 through Nov. 6, 2022 in Muhlenbergʼs Empie Theatre. The production was funded in part by the Kurt Weill Foundation for Music.

• Aun Ji Kim of Harrington Park was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nationʼs oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Kim was initiated

at MCPHS University. Kim is among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10% of seniors and 7.5% of juniors are eligib le for membership. Graduate students in the top 10% of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

• Colgate University tells Northern Valley Press several local students earned honors in s pring 2022: S tudents who receive a term grade point average of 3.6 or higher while completing at least three courses for a conventional letter grade during the

CLOSTER

spring 2022 semester earn the Deanʼs Award with Distinction: Mehraz Karim is a graduate of Horace Mann School, from Old Tappan; Justin Song is a graduate of Northern Valley High SchoolDemarest, from Demarest; Cyrus Emami is a graduate of DwightEnglewood School, from Alpine.

• Julie Ricciutti f rom Demarest was one of more than 90 student scholars were recently inducted into the Frederick Doug lass Institute for Academic Excellence at Bloomsburg, a Commonwealth University. Under the inspiration of Frederick Douglass and other distinguished leaders of all racial and ethnic b ackgrounds, Bloomsburgʼs FDIAE promotes academic excellence among students and enhances their understanding and appreciation of human diversity.

The institute is part of PASSHEʼs collaborative to enhance the academic life and enrich the campus climate of participating universities. It e nables those universities to identify with a man whose life and work embody American democratic ideals and educational excellence. Requirements to become a part of the FDI Student Scholar Program are to maintain a GPA greater than 3.0, participate in at least two FDIAE events each semester, contribute to an FDI legacy project, and promote social justice and DEI ideals.

Weʼd like to laud your student too. Email your alumni updates, and news of other family milestones, to northernvalleyp ress@thepressgroup.net. Please include a telephone number.

Mayor’s Committee for the Arts

The Mayorʼs Committee for the Arts, overseen by the Improvement Commission, is excited to announce the following pop-up performances:

• Saturday, Jan. 7: Aronson Twins.

•Saturday, Feb. 4: Northwest Strings Quartet, Lois Roman.

•Saturday, March 4: Robbie and Amy.

•Saturday, April 1: Understaffed, Elliot Roman.

• Saturday, May 6: CJC Music School, Sung Chung.

All performances are in the Community Room at the Closter Public Library at 2 p.m.

benefits are not similar to your medical insurance because it is not held responsible for covering your justified dental needs. In a dental benefits plan, you have a set amount of benefits which is usually $1000$1500/year, for a private PPO plan.

This can include two cleanings and annual X-rays a year, generally

speaking, which will amount to about 30% of the value of the benefit package itself, approx. $300400 value.

If you were to need more work then two cleanings, then you must match the payment of the dental insurance in co-pays in order to use the remaining benefits. Therefore, in essence, it is only worth $1000 to $1500 if you pay $300-700 in co-pays.

If these plans are self funded, their general cost is $60/month. Therefore, for a $1500/year plan, the net benefit after paying

$720/year in fees is $780 of benefits, again to only be utilized if you match in co-pays. Keep in mind the high costs of dental treatments and how fast you are going to hit the ceiling with these plans.

Its public knowledge that 90% of time, people only need routine cleanings from their dentist. Therefore the need for dental insurance seems quite ineffective because when a dental problem does occur, the maximum of the plan is reached prior to even addressing the problem.

Dental coverage seems like a

really expensive means for very little coverage therefore, dental benefits does not drastically improve your access to dental care.

On the clinical or dentist side, dental benefits works against the patient as well. Even though preventive care (cleanings & X-rays) have 80-100% coverage for the patient, for an in-network dentist, these services have the lowest reimbursements. The largest insurers in Bergen County expect dentists to work "at cost" for preventive care services like cleanings. That business model lowers the standard of care for the public. It fosters an environment that compromises time, products and attention to the patient. This is the main reason I stay out of network with these companies and the same reason you should not allow them to decide who your dentist is.

When you have a PPO dental

plan, you can see an out of network dentist and still utilize your benefits, but you will have a slightly higher percentage OUT of pocket expense.

It is much more importance to see the dentist that provides the best service vs. one who is in your plan because when you have a problem, your dental insurance has no responsibility to cover your dental needs anyway.

On behalf of my team at Westwood Periodontics, I welcome you to my office for a cleaning with one of highly trained and experienced hygienists who will take the time to address your needs and concerns.

For more information, call (201) 664-3023 or visit their office at 354 Old Hook Road #201 or WestwoodPeriodontics.com.

FROM PAGE 11

realize how important it is for us to continue these ladiesʼquest to preserve our land for future generations to enjoy.

Hiking might not seem like a winter activity, but Iʼve discovered that it can be. So long as you prepare with proper attire and supplies (including a walking stick for stability) and avoid the hikes that arenʼt appropriate in icy conditions, you can enjoy hiking all year round.

And with the absolute gem of the Palisades Interstate Park right in our own county, why not?

So I will be activating my hand warmers and layering my thermal socks. I will once again enjoy the

idea of exercise as it involves an activity I love. I intend to beat that New Yearʼs resolution doomsday of Feb. 9. Iʼm so relieved that I finally answered two of my January questions.

As for Question 3, the issue of yet another birthday, that remains. Iʼll try to figure that one out as Iʼm out hiking the woods on Feb. 10.

When you go…

• State Line Lookout has its own unnumbered exit from the Palisades Interstate Parkway in Alpine (approximately 2 miles north of Exit 2).

•For more information, including a handy downloadable trail map, visit njpalisades.org

PRIYU GUPTA, DDS, WESTWOOD PERIODONTICS

&FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Thoughts on dairy products, brain health

My interest in health started when I was 13 years old. I was a very sick child. I had bad acne, low energy, and worst of all, I was overweight.

food for me to eat, and leading me in the right direction.

I learned from the Natural Hygiene Society that dairy is a major cause of congestion in the lungs. I made the connection that quitting dairy might help my chronic bronchitis.

linked to dairy consumption are eczema and rosacea. Not only can they occur in a child that is eating dairy products, they can also be seen in the child if the mother was consuming lots of dairy products during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Actually, the pediatrician said I was clinically obese according to the World Health Organization. In addition, every waking morning I started my day coughing up thick phlegm from my chronic bronchitis partly due to the fact that I was exposed to second hand cigarette smoke.

I had terrible “brain fog” which affected my academic and sports performance.

The doctor advised antibiotics and steroids. Because I was born in the 1970ʼs and grew up in the 1980ʼs, I never really saw anybody question the doctor, so of course, I decided to take the medications that he recommended.

I quickly realized that the medications made me super sick. I was constantly nauseous and dizzy. These harmful pharmaceuticals made me vomit five to ten times a day. Because I was embarrassed about always throwing up, I stopped going outside to play with my friends. I became depressed and I felt hopeless.

Luckily, I didn't even have to leave my own house to find the solution. My father, Dr. Larry Kaplan, is the one that changed my life forever by introducing me to a health group called the Natural Hygiene Society. After I showed a deep interest in health and well-being, he and my mom began paying for all my health seminars and education; buying me all the health books I could ever imagine, purchasing very healthy

As a result, I completely eliminated all dairy from my diet. That means no cheese, no milk, no yogurt, no ranch dressing, no creamy sauces, no butter, and do I dare say it….no ice cream and no pizza! Because I was so sick and tired of being sick and tired, I decided to give it a try.

Within one month of quitting dairy, my bronchitis was gone. Imagine the look on the doctorʼs face when I went back and told him, “Thank you, but I wonʼt be needing these antibiotics or steroids anymore. I cured my bronchitis myself.”

I even lived in the same house as a smoker, and I was still able to heal myself of bronchitis just by changing my diet. As Hippocrates said, “Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be they food.”

Not only does dairy consumption cause lung congestion and phlegm, it contributes to risk of obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Studies have even shown dairy products are linked to prostate cancer in men and ovarian cancer in women.

Milk has also been linked to harmful pathogens including salmonella and E. Coli. The higher the consumption of dairy products, the higher the amount of colic, constipation, diarrhea, and even bloody stool.

A 2016 study found that teenagers who drank higher amounts of milk, especially low fat or skim milk, had a much higher incidence of acne. Moreover, dairy products have been linked to adult acne, as well.

Other skin conditions that are

Sensitivity to dairy is more likely seen in people with autoimmune disorders. For example, if you have Multiple Sclerosis, Hashimotoʼs, Graves, Fibromyalgia, Celiac disease, Lupus, Sjogrenʼs, Psoriasis, or Rheumatoid Arthritis, it is highly recommended to eliminate dairy products because they are the biggest triggers of autoimmune disease.

You do not need milk to make your bones strong and prevent fractures. Milk does not do your body good. To keep your bones strong and healthy, you need movement, sunlight, weight resistance exercises, green leafy vegetables, and high levels of Vitamin D.

Living a healthy lifestyle will improve your quality of life. There is nothing more important than your health, and there is no bigger link to your health than nutrition. If you are interested in learning more about your health, we are offering qEEG brain mapping at all of our offices to discover how your brain is functioning. It may tell us about your memory, your mood, your stress levels, your energy levels, your sleep patterns, your digestion, your neurotransmitters, if you have susceptibility to diabetes, heavy metal poisoning, concussion, and many other health issues.

Not only does it tell us the areas of your brain that are not functioning properly, but it also provides you with the solutions to reduce your symptoms to get you to feel better, function better, and live better. It is non-invasive, there is no radiation, and tells us lots of valuable information. It is normally $500 for the

entire neurological evaluation, but for the rest of January, we are offering this amazing brain mapping session for only $21. This is done in our Emerson location or our NYC location, and you must email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com or call 201-261-2150 to reserve your spot now because they are filling up quickly.

If you are interested in hearing my live radio show “Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan,” tune in to AM 970 Saturdays from 8 to 9 a.m. and AM 710 at 2 p.m. You will learn the healthiest and most natural ways to improve brain function and get your body to function better, feel better, and live better.

Prison: Escape ends

FROM PAGE 4

pery…We had many falls. Bland fell once about 25 feet, and would have been dashed to pieces on the ice below if it hadnʼt been for a tree that grew out of the rocks. When we got to the top our hands were covered with blood. They had been torn by the ice and jagged rocks.”

Setting the scene: An early photograph snapped on the New Jersey Palisades.

The men walked south along the river, eventually entering New Jersey in what is now Alpine, but which was then part of Harrington Township.

“Seeing a light we made for the shore and found an engine house on the Jersey side, but there was no one near it. We warmed ourselves and borrowed some clothes. We then struck into the country and walked until we came to a railroad track.”

If the men followed the track, they passed through Palisade Township (modern-day Cresskill and Tenafly) into Englewood.

“After walking about four hours we came to a barn; we went in and found a sleigh, bells, and robes, but no horse. We set out again down the track, occasionally resting under the stoops of houses,

in sheds and similar places. All this time the rain was pouring down and we were nearly dead with hunger.

“Early in the morning [Jan. 17] we met some railroad laborers who, supposing we were also laborers, asked us if we were out of work. We told them we were. If we had stayed with these laborers we might have escaped. After we had passed through Englewood, N.J, we were picked up by Marshal Hill, of the Protective Society—since our capture we have fed like fighters.”

The Poughkeepsie paper added, “The prisoners looked completely worn out, and gave themselves up without a struggle. They expressed great regret at coming near Englewood, and said if they could have reached Jersey City they would have been perfectly safe.”

Editorʼs note:According to the Greater Ossining Chamber of Commerceʼs “History of Ossining,” the name Sing Sing was derived from the Sintsink Native American tribe from whom the land was purchased in 1685, and was formerly the name of the village. In 1970, the prisonʼs name was changed to the Ossining Correctional Facility, but it reverted to its original name in 1985.

REAL ESTATE NORTHERN VALLEY

Candlelight carol service marks 111-year milestone

BY HILLARY VIDERS FOR NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

On Sunday evening, December 11,, Elmore Hall in the First Presbyterian Church of Englewood (FPCE) was the setting for its annual Candlelight Carol Service,” a festive annual Christmas

World,” O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,”

The words to all the songs were conveniently displayed on multiple screens around the room so that everyone could join in.

In between these vocal perform-

celebration that has been ongoing for 111 years.

The event, attended by dozens of parishioners and guests, was led by Reverend Richard Hong, Felicia Arrigoitia, Director of Family Ministries and the churchʼs music director, Dominic Frigo.

Hong explained, “Itʼs a great way to usher in Christmas. It warms our hearts and our souls.”

This yearʼs fest was enjoyed by many families and people of all ages. It began at 4:00 pm, as a 17person choir took to the stage in green robes.

Frigo played the organ accompanied by musicians on flute, trumpet, trombone and harp. He led everyone in traditional Christmas carols, including, “Joy to the

ances, teenagers Genesis and Liam read passages from the bible that told the story of the nativity.

The highlight of the service was the singing of “Silent Night” as everyone lit his/her electric candle.

The event concluded with an

uplifting sermon by Revered Hong about reconciliation. He advised, “Like God reached out and reconciled with man, each of us should reach out to reconcile with someone.”

Photos by Hillary Viders

Reverend Richard Hong and Felicia Arrigoitia led the Service. The choir accompanied by a flute and a harp and other instruments.

Parishioners lit their candles as they sang Silent Night.

Children of all ages enjoyed the event.

Teen: AHA fencers fast and furious into 2023

FROM PAGE 1

(James) Lee.

Top Fencing Clubʼs athletes, including Lee and Cho, finished ninth out of approximately 40 during the mid-November Designated Cadet competition in Nuremberg, Germany.

As an individual, Lee finished 76th out of 270 participating f encers. The weekend after Thanksgiving, she placed first out of 103 athletes who competed in a statewide event.

Lee developed her interest in fencing after sampling several other activities. She started the program at age 7 and took to it right away. Now, she is involved in her first year of international competition.

“I like how the sport is both mentally and physically challenging,” she told Northern Valley Press

One of only seven high school fencing teams in Bergen County, the program has consistently garnered local and state recognition, winning many league titles as well as state district championships.

The program says online, “Dedicated to the improvement of our talented club fencers as well as the inexperienced novice students of the sport, we pride our-

selves in attaining a true team atmosphere where everyone helps each other to become better and stronger fencers. We are proud to host the Bergen County Tournament each January and strive to bring fencing the recognition it deserves in our county and state.”

Many graduates have gone on to fence at the collegiate level with highly competitive programs such as Notre Dame, Johns Hopkins, Northeastern and NYU.

In April 2022, Lavender Lee participated in the high school through college-level division at the national tournament. She finished in the top 32 for Juniors (college division), and placed 31st out of 204 fencers.

“My goal is making the U.S. Olympic Team and going to the Olympics,” she said.

Cho placed 34th out of 270 competitors at the event in Germany. She also finished 24th out of 270 in competition in Budapest, Hungary.

D uring the mid-December North American Cup held in Utah, Lavender placed 30th and Rebecca finished 76th out of 182 fencers from the United States and Canada.

“I appreciate how fencing is a sport that not only makes you physically stronger, but is also a sport of mental strength and

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

FROM PAGE 10

dles symbolizing the eight nights in the temple are ablaze by the end of the holiday.

The ninth candle called the “shamis” is used to light the others.

When everyone was assembled for the Menorah lighting at Englewood City Hall, inspiring messages and prayers were given by Konikov of the Chabad of Englewood and Rabbi Chaim Poupko of Congregation Ahavath Torah.

Both rabbis emphasized that Chanukah is about how lighting one candle can illuminate an entire room

of darkness.

“Chanukah is a holiday that enriches our lives with the light of tradition,” said Rabbi Konikov In ancient times our ancestors rededicated the Temple in Jerusalem with the Menorah. Today, we rededicate ourselves to making this world a better and brighter place.”

After their remarks, the first candle on the Menorah, the shamis, was lit by Mayor Wildes, who delivered an uplifting message.

“Fresh off a trip to Athens, Greece for a Mayors Conference on Antisemitism, I stand before you today as we light our candles before

focus,” Cho said. “One of the great advantages of being a fencer is going to tournaments and traveling to different places.”

The tournaments in Germany and Hungary were Rebeccaʼs first and second international events.

Her recent successes include a first place finish at the Fairfax Challenge and a 13th-place finish at the U.S. Nationals North American Cup.

“I plan to improve my skills and compete in more international competitions in the future,” Cho added.

Yu said her brother sparked her interest in fencing.

“Initially, my brother was a fencer. He tried many sports and ended up choosing fencing, so I just ended up following his path. I have also tried many sports, however fencing seemed to be the most fun and engaging in my opinion,” Yu said.

She added, “I think that the most enjoyable part of fencing is that not only is the community very close-knit, but that it is a sport where it is a game of wits and thinking rather than full on athletic ability.”

Yu has earned a third-place finish in the Super Youth Circuit and received her D rating. Ratings for fencers start at U, or unrated, and rise to A, which is

the highest rating.

Eventually, she would like to be recruited by a college and compete in the Fédération Intern ationale dʼEscrime Fencing World Cup.

This year, these three athletes will have the opportunity to try out for the AHA fencing team, which is open to students in grades 9–12.

Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is

the oldest private girlsʼschool in Bergen County. The Academyʼs leaders continue to further the SSND mission to provide each student with the tools she needs t o reach the fullness of her potential — spiritually, intellectually, socially, andphysically, by offering a first-rate education in a nurturing environment where equal importance is placed on academic excellence, character development, moral integrity, and service to others.

City Hall in Englewood. We so appreciate the hospitality of the United States and know that the governing body and leaders all stand with us in solidarity The lessons of history remind us to revel in our legacy and never be afraid to practice our faith. May the lights of this holiday season bring peace, happiness and good health to all.”

A highlight of the evening was the “Great Chanukah Gelt Drop,” during which a fire truck hoisted high above the street shot out bucket loads of gold foil coins filled with chocolate, called “gelt” in Jewish tradition.

Dozens of youngsters squealed with delight as they scrambled to grab up handfuls of the delicious loot.

The Festival of Lights continued throughout the evening with music and laughter as the rabbis danced with great zest linking their arms

with those of residents.

Chanukah Around the World

Once a relatively minor celebration on the Jewish calendar, Chanukah became more widely honored in the 20th century, with Menorahs lit in Jewish homes and lighting ceremonies in many cities and towns across the globe, from Australia to Africa, from Columbia to Hong Kong, from New York Cityʼs ground zero to the White House lawn.

Like most holidays, the week involves special foods, prayers, traditional songs, and dreidel games. In recent decades, the practice of exchanging small gifts each night has also caught on.

Chanukah is observed in a variety of ways, with different cultures putting their own unique spin on things.

Stories of Jewish survival, hope and faith are a significant part of

Jewish history, from the Exodus under Pharaoh told in the Haggadah on Passover, to the Megillah that tells the Purim Story of Persian Jewish liberation. But, Chanukah is, in its own right, a powerful metaphor for Judaism itself.

As Chanukah is celebrated today, Jews are still fighting for their survival nearly everywhere in the world and continue to be the target of anti-Semitism and hate.

But, but as survivors, the Jewish community continues to celebrate and acknowledge the light that it brings in to the world by passing on the story and traditions of Chanukah to the next generation.

That story is universal and resonates with people of all faiths. Chanukah is both a chronicle of survival and faith and a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness.

AHA fencer Lavender Lee in action in 2022.

Photos by Hillar y Viders

The Moriah School Choir sang Chanukah songs.

Englewood was the scene of a joyful Chanukah fest.

Concert: Tenafly HSPhilharmonic at PCAT Jan. 27

FROM PAGE 1

Millar tells Northern Valley Press, “I have been teaching in Tenafly since 2003, and every year Iʼm amazed at the talent that comes up from the 8th grade. Iʼm proud and grateful for the work we do together.”

The concert will be approxumately an hour long and is composed of an eclectic mix, including:

• Troika from Prokofievʼs “Lt. Kije Suite”

• A John Williams medley

• All the Things by Brian Balmages

• Serenade for Strings by Dvorak, movements 1, 2, and 3

T his Tenafly High School Philharmonic concert is part of a series of arts, literary and musical happenings sponsored by the Presbyterian Church at Tenafly.

Events set for later in the year include a poetry cafe, author talks, and more concerts.

Among the concerts being planned for the spring are chamber groups from Tenafly High School. These events are developed with the entire community in mind, and all are most welcome.

The Presbyterian Church at Tenafly is at 55 Magnolia Ave.

Grants:

FROM PAGE 3 mittee.

“With 70 grants in total, the nearly $18 million will support projects throughout Bergen County that will boost public access to outdoor recreation, conserve and acquire open space, and support nearly 60 municipal and county parks,” said Beylerian, in a press release.

Beylerian added, “New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the country, and Bergen County is the fourth most densely populated county in the state despite not having a major city within its borders. Open

Space grants play a crucial role in helping to maintain quality of life in Bergen County. The recommended project awards range in the following categories including open space acquisition, floodplain protection, historic preservation improvements, and improvements to County and municipal park facilities.”

County officials said the

Open Space Trust Fund program is funded through a rate of one cent per $100 of total county equalized real property valuation annually, as approved by the public in 2013. The county administers these funds as a reimbursement once the proposed project is completed by the municipality.

N NOORRTTHHEERRN N V VAALLLLEEY Y P PRREESSS S

welcomes press releases,birth announcements, wedding announcements and event photographs from all towns in the Northern Valley. Send all news to northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net

Kitchen Cabinet installers helper. Must have basic knowledge of tools. Valid drivers license. Ken Bauer Kitchens, Hillsdale NJ (201)664-6881.

P/TPOLICE DISPATCHERS – EMERSON BOROUGH, Bergen County The Emerson Police Department is accepting applications for P/T Dispatchers (weekend shifts). Applications can be picked up at the Emerson Police Headquarters, 1 Municipal Place, Emerson, NJ 07630. Basic telecommunicator certification preferred. Please contact Sgt. Randy Velez at 201-2622800 for more info. EOE

and able to perform various, financerelated functions and multi-task. Responsibilities include accounts payable, including end of year requirements; purchase requisitions and purchase orders; bill lists; payment and check processing; revenue and expenditure/budget reports. Finance Specialist will perform additional, various duties and functions as assigned by the CMFO or Administrator. Salary DOQ. EOE. The Borough reserves the right to interview and hire while this advertisement is active and will also accept applications from candidates interested in part-time roles – as a Finance Specialist and/Accounts Payable Specialist. Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter that includes salary requirements to the Borough Clerk, Denise Kohan at dkohan@hillsdalenj.org.

Hairdresser wanted for a busy shop in Westwood. Contact Colleen at 201664-4663.

HELPWANTEDHarrington Park is looking to hire one full time crossing guard. Those interested can contact the Harrington Park borough hall with any questions regarding salary. Applications are available at the Harrington Park Police Department.

SERVICES - CLEANING

Cleaning business that values honesty and integrity with many years exp. Competitively priced with close attention to detail. Ref. Avail. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Call or text Analu for free estimate. 973-474-7383

BOROUGH OF WESTWOOD seeks a qualified, dependable individual for part-time alternate deputy registrar. Strong organization, communication and customer service skills required. Successful candidate must maintain confidentiality, have a professional demeanor, ability to work independently and deal effectively with residents and members of the public. Candidate will be required to manage multiple tasks with changing priorities. Current experience with MSOffice required. CMR certification preferred or willing to obtain.

Email cover letter and resume to sgravina@westwoodnj.gov. Westwood is an EOE.

If you need someone to look after your loved ones, day or night, call Dawn at (201) 898-4040. 25 yrs. exp. Exc. refs. I do driving, prep meals & meds. Doctors appts & companion care. Medicare accepted.

Food Service/Lunch

Aide positions available - in our K-8 unique lunch program. Duties include food prep, cooking, serving, cleanup and computer entry. Position is available five days per week, 3 hours per day. Substitute lunch positions also available. Criminal background check and fingerprinting required upon hiring. Send brief resume to Debra Rinaldi at rinaldid@nvnet.org or apply online.

The Tenafly Philharmonic is conducted by Jim Millar,director of choirs and orchestras at Tenafly High School,who has has collaborated with artists from Broadway to the Met and recently conducted the New Jersey All-State Orchestra and Choir at New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark.

The Presbyterian Church at Tenafly is at 55 Magnolia Ave.

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