Pascack Press 1.9.23

Salute to a hero

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

COUNCIL SETSSIGN LIMITS ON STORE WINDOWS

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

To minimize unsightly window signage in commercial zones throughout the township, the council unanimously passed an ordinance Dec. 19, 2022 to restrict indoor window signs to a maximum of 40% of window space.

The move comes after residents complained about unappealing windows and signage.

The Township Council unanimously passed Ordinance 22-26, to limit the amount of window space that may be covered via signage.

The measure specifies the size

Conti, ambassador for a cause, aims for Miss NJ USA

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

SUNNY MODEL OF SUCCESS SUNNY MODEL OF SUCCESS MAYORS SUPPORT EMS STIPENDS

CHRISTINA C ONTI , 21, has everything going for her. Sheʼs the oldest of three, a junior at Montclair State University studying marketing, and was her high school Class of 2020 valedictorian.

Recently arrived in the borough from Hackensack — in 2020 her extended family needed the space and Hillsdale was a perfect fit at the right price — she says sheʼs guided by three things: her faith, her family, and knowing herself.

All three elements will be essential as she takes on the challenge of stepping back onto a prominent and newly more meaningful stage: competing for Miss New Jersey USA, representing Hillsdale, in March.

There, she looks forward to raising essential awareness of what itʼs like to live with epilepsy, a central nervous system (neurological) disorder.

Anyone can develop epilepsy, in which brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations and sometimes loss of awareness.

The Mayo Clinic explains seizure symptoms can vary widely “Some people with epilepsy simply stare blankly for a few seconds during a seizure, while others repeatedly twitch their arms or legs. Having a single seizure

doesnʼt mean you have epilepsy. At least two seizures without a known trigger (unprovoked seizures) that happen at least 24 hours apart are generally required for an epilepsy diagnosis.”

TOP EDUCATORS

It adds, “Treatment with medications or sometimes surgery can control seizures for the majority of people with epilepsy. Some people require lifelong treatment to conContinued on page 24

PASCACK VALLEY

Say budget talks will tell the story on new Tri-Boro Ambulance Corps aid

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

A recent request from the TriBoro Volunteer Ambulance Corps which serves Montvale, Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake — for up to $100,000 per town appears to have the general support of the three area mayors to increase funding for the 84-year-old volunteer ambulance service.

How much each town approves for a proposed Tri-Boro volunteer stipend program will likely be decided over upcoming budget negotiations and borough council discussions among the towns throughout January.

“The representatives of the three towns have to meet to discuss the stipend. I donʼt think that anyone has agreed to the $100,000, but we are in general agreement to give a stipend,” Rendo told Pascack Press Jan. 3.

In emails between the mayors during December, obtained by Pascack Press, we see strong support for the stipend program to help recruit and retain dedicated volunteer professionals. Each town contributes $20,000 annually to the volunteer ambulance corps.

In late September, the Tri-

kintime...

Emerson • Hillsdale • Montvale • Park Ridge • River Vale • Township of Washington • Westwood • Woodcliff Lake P ASCACKVALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Westwood Regional School District’s superintendent cheers five Governor’s Educators of the Year for 2022 serving in Westwood and Washington Township.

Kristin Beuscher brings us back to 1941 at Merusi’s Tavern in Woodcliff Lake, 62 Broadway at the corner of Lincoln Avenue.

Remembering Green Beret Michael J. Goble, 33, KIA.

Washington Town Center landlord says result is a good compromise

CHRISTINA CONTI/@THECHRISTINACONTI ON INSTAGRAM

Christina Conti,21,is trying for another run as Miss NJ USA in March. She says this time she knows what her brand includes:this is her chance to be the spokesperson on epilepsy she did not have growing up

Shelter thanks its supporters

To the editor:

John’s

PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

to the shelter and its grounds.

NOTE: Letter submission deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday for the following Monday’s paper. Publication not guaranteed. Subject to editing. Email topascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

you know who you are.

S

AVETHE A NIMALS 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

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 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 lowcost 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 numberone 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

A s we embark on 2023, it's with a shared heart full of gratitude for your helping save Save The Animals Rescue Team II. T hereʼs work to be done, and plenty of it. Maybe someone reading this will find it in their h eart to pitch in too. May God 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

Readerpowered news win!

To the editor:

T HANKYOU for publishing my Rotary clubʼs holiday toy drive announcement. We had the best toy drive ever! We put smiles on many childrenʼs faces this holiday season. We could not have done this without your help. Again, thank you!

Don’t blame Hillsdale schools

To the editor:

W HATATIME it is to be a Hillsdale resident. What drama! Each week, we tear open the Pascack Press to catch up on the latest tiff or salvo fired between our mayor and council. Will the council explain why we need a second community center? Will the mayor acquiesce to mediation? Find out next week! (But you probably wonʼt.)

The latest news out of our fine town was the resignation of our borough administrator, an individual of outstanding qualifications and experience. He lasted 10 months in the middle of our dysfunction. I think we should all pay close attention to his parting words. [See “Latest borough admin quits,” page 1, Dec. 26, 2022.]

Bober Pascack Valley Rotary Club

Barbara

This town needs professionals and professionalism. We need our mayor and council to focus first on the operations of this town, rather than their pet projects. Positions must be posted and filled. Hillsdale should be a town where high quality civil servants want to come and work. A wellrun town is worth paying for and, frankly, what is the alternative?

That brings me to my final point. This spring, Hillsdale will hold one of the most important votes in the history of the town. Our middle school is crumbling and we have the opportunity to invest in our future. This project can benefit our town for genera-

chief, borough admin, and attorney sworn in

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

MONTVALE

A new police chief, a new borough administrator, a new borough attorney and three reelected Republican council members —along with other borough professionals — were sworn in on New Yearʼs Day during an hour-plus reorganization ceremony at Borough Hall.

Montvaleʼsʼwas the Pascack Valley's first municipal reorganization of 2023.

Councilwoman Theresa Cudequest was sworn in for a one-year unexpired term; incumbent councilman Christopher Roche was sworn in for a second three-year term; incumbent councilman Timothy Lane was sworn in for his sixth consecutive term.

All three incumbents ran unopposed in the Nov 8 General Election.

Mayor Michael Ghassali swore in the boroughʼs new police chief, Douglas McDowell, who was flanked by prior police chiefs Joseph Sanfilippo and Jeremy Abrams.

The 80-minute meeting can be seen by clicking on “My Montvale TV” on the borough website.

In an email to residents Jan. 3, Ghassali said, “I want to congratulate councilwoman Cudequest, Lane and Roche on their re-election. And congratulations to Chief McDowell, business administrator Joe Voytus and our new attorney Dave Lafferty. Also, congratulations to the fire department elected leadership,” said the mayor.

He added, “We will miss Maureen (Iarossi-Alwan) in her role as a business administrator and as a clerk in a few months, many thanks to Maureen for all her time and service to our community ” Ghassali

shared the same sentiments in his monthly email update.

Iarossi-Alwan served nearly three decades in Montvale.

Sworn in as the new administrator was former borough attorney Joseph Voytus, who replaces the retiring Iarossi-Alwan, and sworn in as new borough attorney was David S. Lafferty, of Huntington Bailey, LLP, Westwood.

Councilman Douglas Arendacs was unanimously elected council president for a second consecutive year after being nominated by AnnMarie Russo-Vogelsang.

Arendacs thanked members for selecting him as council president

and congratulated the reelected members. He congratulated IarossiAlwan on her retirement after 26 years in Montvale. He said she was the first person he met when he came to Borough Hall after moving there in 2014.

“Over time she has taught me a lot about municipal government and been a mentor to me throughout my council run as Iʼm always learning how to better serve our residents,” Arendacs said.

Arendacs congratulated Voytus on his appointment as borough administrator, after serving Montvale as borough attorney for 15 years. He also congratulated Lafferty, a resident, on his appointment as borough attorney.

Councilman Dieter Koelling said he was looking forward to

working with new Police Chief Douglas McDowell, and to enhance the Junior Police Academy. He praised the new professionals joining the borough staff in 2023.

Councilwoman Theresa Cudequest said safety had always been her major issue in Montvale, and said she will continue “to hold safety as my utmost priority.” She encouraged residents to attend council meetings and raise issues and concerns.

“Weʼre here to serve you, so no question that you have is ridiculous in regards to the way that things are

done here in town. So I encourage you to get involved. Make that maybe your New Yearʼs resolution for 2023. Get involved in the town a little bit more, weʼd love to have you and have your input,” said Cudequest.

Councilman Chistopher Roche congratulated IarossiAlwan on her retirement, noting “You will be missed” and welcomed Voytus, adding “you have some big shoes to fill but I know youʼll be an asset to the borough” and welcomed new borough attor-

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Nurses scholarship applications due soon

BERGENCOUNTY

The Bergen County American Legion and Auxiliary are pleased to announce that the 2023 scholarship application process is open for the George F. Axt Memorial Fund Nurses Scholarship. Four individual awards of $2,500 are available.

For the application and rules visit bcnjal.org/george-f-axt-memorialfund-nurses-scholarship

The application deadline is March 31. Affiliation with The American Legion or The American Legion Auxiliary is not a requirement for consideration. Applicant must be a resident of Bergen County, and either a senior in high school, a high school graduate who has been accepted to an accredited nursing school, or a student now enrolled in an accredited undergraduate nursing program. For more information, write alaunit136LodiNJ@gmail.com

Warm up at Merusi’s Tavern

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS WOODCLIFFLAKE

OMEONIN! Pull up a seat! Merusiʼs Tavern was at 62 Broadway at the corner of Lincoln Avenue. The photograph above, from the Pascack Historical Societyʼs archives, was snapped in January 1941. Thatʼs owners Anna and Emil Merusi at the far right behind the bar.

Emil was born in Italy in 1884 and came to America in 1912. He settled first in New York City, then moved to Woodcliff Lake and lived on Lincoln Avenue. He opened his tavern in the 1930s, and when he retired it passed to his son, Alfred. The Bergen County Sportsmenʼs Club would hold an annual venison dinner, as well as a fall turkey shoot, at Merusiʼs. The early fire department held events there, too.

This corner restaurant went by many other names over the years. After Merusiʼs, in 1971 it switched from Italian food to a seafood shanty with Captain Blighʼs, an English pub with a nautical theme. Within a few years it changed to Rickey Tʼs Copper Penny and then the Wood-Dale Inn. In 1977 the pub-style restaurant reopened under the

name Spankyʼs, with “Little Rascals” pictures decorating to the walls. Finally, Matsu, a Japanese restaurant, was there in the 1990s and early 2000s.

The corner of Broadway and Lincoln was then redeveloped as the Woodcliff Lake

Have you a story to tell about life in the Pascack Valley of long ago? Those black and white photos have been sitting in the drawer for decades. Give those treasures more love by sharing them here with your neighbors.

Itʼs easy: Email high-resolution scans of your photos (a steady shot with a smart phone could work), with details for the story or captions, to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net. Please include your telephone number.

Commons, a three-story building with businesses at ground level and apartments above.

—Kristin Beuscher is president of the Pascack Historical Society, based in Park Ridge. Visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org

The bar at Merusi’s Tavern, 1941, at Broadway and Lincoln Avenue, Woodcliff Lake.

We love our Pascack Valley heroes!

The Bergen County Sportsmen’s Club dines at Merusi’s Tavern, early 1940s.

‘Coffee with the Mayor,’ at Whole Foods, kicks off Jan. 14

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

C offee, conversation, and community will be served up monthly at Mayor Carlos Rendoʼs “Coffee With the Mayor” sessions, starting in mid-January at at Whole Foods Market, 500 Chestnut Ridge Road.

Rendo told Pascack Press that Saturday, Jan. 14 from 9 to 10 a.m. at the market will be his first such informal coffee time with public, and that he looks forward to it.

At the Dec. 22, 2022 meeting of the governing body, Rendo said he hoped residents would come out to the gatherings to say hello and discuss local concerns. He said when he first became a councilman in 2013 he began a “Council to the Community” outreach where members met with residents at Borough Hall, Tice Senior/Community Center, and the VFW hall.

Rendo said on Dec. 29, “I will be offering coffee and danishes. The purpose is to just speak to the residents and get their feedback, ideas, and overall impression of the town. This is part of my transparency initiative to connect with our residents.”

Rendo announced the coffee klatches will offer an opportunity to “just to be a little more open and transparent with our public. I pride myself on open and transparent government.”

He said he and the Borough Council had increased transparency with the public since he joined about a decade ago.

“Anything you want to speak about, any concerns, Iʼll be there whether you come or not, having a coffee,” said the mayor.

Several area police departments hold “coffee with a cop” events. Rendo also is expected to participate in the annual Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce Breakfast With the Mayors at The Iron Horse restaurant in Westwood the morning of Jan. 18.

(Tickets are on sale.)

Rendoʼs second term expires Dec. 31 and he h as not yet announced if heʼll seek r eelection. He won reelection in November 2019, besting Democratic councilwoman Jacqueline Gadaleta, 1,150 votes to 914.

the last two to three years, a lthough toxic contamination cleanup and Covid-related delays have slowed its progress.

RENDO

Rendo also was part of a Republican state campaign for governor in November 2017, running as the lieutenant governor candidate alongside gubernatorial candidate Kim Guadagno. The pair lost that contest to Democratic Gov. Philip Murphy and Lt. Gov Sheila Oliver. Murphy and Oliver won reelection in 2021.

Rendo recently praised the upcoming opening of a 1.5-milelong Woodcliff Lake Reservoir Nature Trail sometime this spring, after nearly a decade of fits and starts, and a project that he long advocated for. The trail runs along the reservoir and into parts of Park Ridge and Hillsdale.

Moreover, he said a longplanned passive park on Weirmus Road has faced stumbling blocks with potential donors backing out due to project delays. Rendo has pressed for the park to open over

On Dec. 6, the council signed an agreement that settles pending lawsuits against the borough by allowing a developer to construct 45 housing units at 188 Broadway, formalizes a multi-year agreement with Bergen County United Way to build 24 units of affordable/sup-

a former mayor, had accused Rendo and councilman Richard Schnoll of not being transparent about the 188 Broadway settlement, along with other charges.

Rendo and Schnoll responded

that Marson and Higgins were “quick to criticize but mind you, n either have ever provided a solution to settling both matters or provided a recommendation to improve (Broadway) corridor.

portive housing, and resolves its outstanding court-approved affordable housing obligations.

Rendo said the borough will be making out “pretty well” due to a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement on the 188 Broadway apartments, and said the agreements gave the borough “an opportunity to control our destiny and we believe we did so.”

In dueling letters to the editor we ran in December 2022 former councilman Craig Marson and councilwoman Josephine Higgins,

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Fans of Barnes & Noble on Route 17 were disappointed to learn at the turn of the year that the store is closing Feb. 11.

“ We wish we could have served the community from this location for many, many more years, but the landlord has chosen not to renew our lease and will be

redeveloping the site,” the B&N Paramus team said Dec. 30, 2022.

It added, “It has truly been our honor and privilege to be your bookseller in Paramus for the last 28 years.”

The team said, “We are doing everything we can to find a new location, hoping to return close to

here with a new book store before too long. Please let us know it you have any suggestions for where we could reopen by emailing M yBarnesandNoble@bn.com a nd adding Paramus in the subject line.”

It said, “We thank our wonderful Paramus booksellers for all

their hard work and dedication and know that they look forward to welcoming you back to their new store just as soon as this has been found. We are very pleased that they can continue bookselling in our other local area Barnes & Noble bookstores.”

And the team said, “Unfortunately we donʼt have a location for our new building yet, but we will be back. The closest store to us is Hackensack at Riverside Square mall, but there are also other great locations near you like Clifton, Nanuet, Palisades, Woodland Park, and many more. And we canʼt wait to see you again when we have our new location!”

Longtime customers flocked

to the Paramus outlet when the news broke, there to commisserate and to take advantage of a storewide sale.

On the storeʼs Facebook, customers and former employees used such words as “so sad,” “crushing news,” “my sanctuary,” and “magical store” in their comments.

More than one said news of the closure brought them to tears; one said he wrote a heartfelt letter to CEOJames Daunt (and received a sympathetic reply); and many floated possible new sites to start over in, including the former Lord & Taylor in The

Regular customers at the Paramus Barnes &Noble on Dec.30,2022 said they were sorry to hear the store is closing this February.Online,many spoke of longtime connections to the store,its used book department,its cafe,and past book readings and other public events. John Snyder photo

DiPaola basks in second oath; Timmerman council president

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

During the boroughʼs Jan. 3 annual reorganization meeting, 2021 Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli — a former Somerset County assemblyman and county freeholder — had the honor of swearing in Republican Mayor Danielle DiPaola for her second consecutive term.

In turn, DiPaola swore in her running mates, incumbent Republicans Jill McGuire and Nicole Argenzia.

After administering her oath of office, Ciattarelli said that Emerson is “in good hands” and “good stewardship” with DiPaola as mayor.

In introducing Ciattarelli, DiPaola said he would “hopefully be elected governor in 2025” and noted, “If you ever need a lieutenant governor, it is probably the only job I would ever leave Emerson for.”

Councilman Michael Timmerman was elected, 5-0, as council president, replacing McGuire in the role.

DiPaola also announced that councilman Don Pierro had resigned from an unexpired council term ending on Dec. 31, 2023. Council will likely solicit Republican candidates and appoint a replacement soon.

DiPaola said the reorganization was the boroughʼs 119th annual event, and said she and her running mates comprised the “first allfemale mayor and council winning ticket this year.”

She said she was “doubly honored” to be the first mayor reelected to two consecutive terms in the last 35 years.

DiPaola bested Democratic challenger Jeanine Lamatina, 68% to 32%, on Election Day and indeed made a new mark with supporters:

sheʼs the first Family Town mayor elected to two consecutive terms since Harvey Truppi, also a Republican, who served 1986–1994.

She thanked Borough Hall employees and professional staff including police, fire and ambulance employees and volunteers and said that the borough had implemented shared-service agreements with the local board of education for security officers, planned streetscape improvements along Kinderkamack Road, installed a new plaque honoring veterans in Monument Park, contracted for emergency ambulance service with Holy Name Hospital and assisted Emersonʼs volunteer ambulance squad to recruit new members, saved $80,000 by replacing three aging boilers, and addressed flooding issues affecting residents.

Other improvements included a shared service for a new sewer jet vacuum to be stored in Emerson, new library solar panels, a walking path at Hillman Field, and paving portions of Park Avenue.

She thanked her mother, 92, whom she said, “is always the smartest and sharpest person in the room.”

Moreover, she thanked her husband, Chris, other family, relatives, and friends. She said she was “truly humbled” by all the support shown to her by residents.

McGuire thanked voters for reelecting her and said her first term was “an enriching experience these last four years” serving with her fellow council colleagues. “Iʼm proud to know them and proud to serve on the governing body with them.”

Online, she said “There were many people to thank Tuesday night, as I was sworn in for another

term as councilwoman: the residents, for having faith in me to represent their best interests; my running mates, Danielle and Nicole, present and past governing body peers, borough staff, professionals

and volunteers, for their shared commitment to make Emerson even better; most importantly, my family for supporting my borough efforts and the time it takes me away from them. I am excited to begin a new

term!”

Councilwoman Nicole Argenzia thanked residents for reelecting her, adding she “wonʼt take the position lightly” noting that residents “trust her to be their voice.”

She said she campaigned with “two amazing, intelligent women this past election” who were “not only running mates but also friends.”

Argenzia thanked borough staff, including the administrator and attorney, and her family “for missed days, missed games, missed dinners, and allowing me to do what I do for this town.”

EMERSON

DIPAOLA

TIMMERMAN MCGUIRE ARGENZIA

FROM PAGE 6

Fashion Center, the old Kohlʼs on Route 4, and the former Sports Authority by Ikea.

Meanwhile, Book Riot said in December that Barnes & Noble has a plan to open 30 stores in 2023, “making the bookseller the leader in whatʼs being called a big-box revival. This expansion comes after more than a decade of shrinking its numbers in response to competition from Amazon. There are even a couple of the new stores being opened in the

Boston area that are, perhaps fittingly, going to be in locations previously occupied by Amazon Books.”

Book Riot said “Expansion this size is possible because of a strengthened interest in books and reading that came as a result of the pandemic — more people read because they were stuck at home, and Barnes & Noble locations were able to improve stores while they were closed.”

The outlet said that, at its peak in 2008, Barnes & Noble had 726 locations throughout the

U.S., but now has 600. “With its plan for openings in 2023, it will see more stores opened than closed. The new stores will be designed like independent bookstores and will encourage customers to linger.”

John Snyder

Editorʼs note: What do you think? Are there local independent bookstores you might recommend? Sound off on timely local topics in a letter to the editor. W rite pascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

RIVER VALE

The River Vale Police Department is pleased to announce that it is now an accredited law enforcement agency in New Jersey.

The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) Law Enforcement Accreditation Program is a statewide, independent credentialing body that analyzes the operational effectiveness and clarity of a police departmentʼs policies and procedures. Although about 570 law enforcement agencies in the state are eligible for law enforcement accreditation, only 43% are accredited.

River Vale PD began the process, which can take up to two years to complete, in March 2021.

On Oct. 13, 2022, in a meeting at the South Brunswick Township Police Department, the NJSACOP executive panel voted unanimously to approve the department for accreditation.

On Facebook, many posted cheers and praise, including

Assemblyman Robert Auth, who said, “Congratulations, thanks for keeping our community safe.”

A few others:

• Karen Gavlick Shannon: “John DeVoe, you are awesome! You did a great job getting this job done ʻtil itʼs done, so proud of you!”

• Greg Toskos:“Well done Detective John DeVoe! Congrats!”

• Frank Monks: Awesome job Detective John DeVoe! Great job!”

• Mickey Smith: “Congratulations John DeVoe! Without you this never would have happened! Great job and congratulations to RVPD!”

•Sean Foye: “Awesome job detective John DeVoe! Hard work for years pays off. Well done.”

• Carmen Navarro Gercone: “Congratulations LIEUTENANT JOHN DEVOE! All your hard work to accredit the River Vale Police Department has paid off. Your legacy lives on! FBINA 252 is still doing it!”

— Staff report

River Vale Police Chief Sean Scheidle and Det.Dan Kristan,the department’s accreditation manager,at the River Vale Town Council meeting on Nov.12, 2022. Photo via RVPD on Facebook

‘Time to give it arrest’ as deputy chief Hutchinson retires

Chief Michael R. Pontillo and the members of the Westwood Police Department congratulated and thanked Deputy Chief Jay Hutchinson for his 27 1⁄ 2 years of service to the Westwood community on Jan. 1, Hutchinsonʼs official date of retirement.

The department posted, “Hutchinson served this department in a variety of capacities. He worked in the patrol division as an active young officer who received many accolades and commendation medals.”

It said, “He was promoted to sergeant, where he continued in the patrol division leading in the same manner as when he worked on the road. He was later promoted to lieutenant, to captain, and then deputy chief.”

The WPD said, “Through the years, Jay has been an outstanding contributor to all facets of the department. He ensured community engagement, employee integrity and accountability and oversaw almost every aspect of the department through the years. The department is better today because of your efforts.”

It said, “Congratulations on a successful career! The Westwood community is better today because of your service. Although this retirement is an end of an era, it is also the start of the next chapter in your life. The department and the community wish you and Gina, Dylan and Jaelyn all the best and a happy, healthy and successful retirement.”

Mayor Ray Arroyo added his own congratulations and views shortly after, saying “In WPDʼs post, Deputy Chief Jay Hutchinson is described as ʻa young officerʼon his way to eventual advancement through the ranks. I didnʼt know that Jay, and itʼs hard for me to imagine him in his youth. The Jay I know

was always an old soul. Never a young fool. And the legacy he leaves has nothing to do with the narcissistic folly of youth. Quite the contrary.

The example Jay has left for those coming up in the ranks is how he handled promotional disappointment.”

Arroyo recalled, “Jay came within .008 of becoming chief of the Westwood Police Department. A lesser man would have packed up their toys and quit. Or, had they stayed on, might have ʻquiet quitʼas a resentful, undermining and polarizing figure in the department.”

According to Arroyo, “Jay was a better man. He accepted the fair outcome of the promotional process and embraced the No. 2 slot, supporting the new chiefʼs vision for moving the department forward into the 21st century. And for that the Borough of Westwood will be forever grateful to him.”

Arroyo said, “Godspeed, Deputy Chief Hutchinson. I have no doubt that your future is bright!”

Made borough history

When he was sworn in on June

22, 2021, Hutchinson took a title that hadnʼt existed in Westwood before. The new deputy chief was effective July 1 that year.

“I want to thank the governing body, I want to thank the residents of Westwood, and I want to thank the chief,” Hutchinson said after being sworn in.

He said, “Itʼs a great depart-

ment that I work with, and I thank my family and everyone for being by my side on this 26-year journey.”

Hutchinson served the borough with distinction since 1995 and was a candidate for police chief to replace Frank Regino. Instead, he was promoted from lieutenant to captain in 2018 under Police Chief Michael Pontillo, who rose from sergeant.

Arroyo said of Hutchinsonʼs rise to deputy chief, “Jay really stepped up for this department and the people of Westwood. He put his big-boy pants on and he decided that he was going to help this chief our first 21st century chief of the police department of Westwood. He helped them make all the changes that were necessary to implement and the policies that make us all in our town proud of everyone.”

Arroyo clarified to Pascack Press on July 21, 2021 that Hutchinson had been planning to retire at the end of the year and agreed to step up to assist with the departmentʼs succession plan and to help

mentor junior officers.

He also was the sole eligible candidate for the deputy post.

Arroyo said, “And he is the best choice, since he has essentially functioned as the departmentʼs deputy under chief Pontillo, collaborating on and implementing the chiefʼs vision for a WPD fully prepared to meet the many challenges facing 21st century law enforcement.”

Arroyo said, “The way Jay handled the disappointment of coming in second in the chiefʼs promotional process three years ago says everything about his character.”

And, he added, “It is a lesson to his subordinates that despite personal setbacks their professional contributions to the departmentʼs mission do not go unnoticed. They deserve to be rewarded.”

The captain slot will not be filled while the deputy chief is in place, Arroyo said.

— John Snyder

Deputy Police Chief Jay Hutchinson retired Jan.1,capping a career of 27 1⁄2 years of service to the Westwood community. 2018 file photo.

Left to right: P.O Anthony Feorenzo,P.O.Goran Krasic,Sgt.Dino Dinelli, administrative assistant Lazime Delihasani,P.O.Tyler Mills,P.O.William MacRae, and Sgt. Christopher Yoo.Not pictured:Capt.Christopher Bulger,Lt.Joshua Wisse, Lt.John Gugliemotti,P.S.Michael Monforte,Det.Daniel Kristan,P.O. Kimberly Pane,and P.O.Matthew Lanza.

THE RIVER VALE SENIOR FRIENDSHIP CLUB thanks the River Vale Police Department for the wonderful holiday luncheon they hosted for the club. It was a fun afternoon and these young people made it a very memorable holiday with all their hard work and assistance to all the seniors during the luncheon. We wish them all a happy and healthy New Year!

Hilda Gonzalez River Vale Friendship Club

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

HEREʼS ALOOK at some of what our libraries are offering patrons in the next days and weeks. Thanks to Pascack Press interns Ashley and Christian for the web research! Visit your library online or in person to get all the facts —and have fun getting involved!

E EMMEERRSSOON N

20 Palisade Ave.

(201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org

• Monday, Jan. 9 at 3:30 p.m.: Afternoon Storytime, ages 2-5.

• Monday, Jan. 9, 23, and 30 at 1 and 3 p.m.: Adult Knitters Circle

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 11 a.m.: Baby & Me, newborn to 2. Jan. 10–24 at 1:30 p.m.: Adult Chair Yoga with Miss Shelley. Registration required online. Jan. 10 at 3:30 p.m.: Switch Club, grades 2–4.

•Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 10:30 a.m.: Preschool Storytime and Craft: Pop-up Snowman. Registration is required for each craft, one craft per child.

•Thursday, Jan. 12 at 10:30 a.m.: Sensory Storytime, ages 2–5.

•Friday, Jan. 13 at 1 p.m.:

Move, Learn & Grow, ages 2–5.

(201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org

• Friday, Jan. 13 at 10 a.m.:

H

SDDAALLE E 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org

• Monday, Jan. 9 at 10:30 a.m.: Jiggly Wiggly Childrenʼs Music Program. At 3 p.m.: Sundial Garden Club.

• Tuesdays in January at 1:30 p.m.: Winter Story Time for ages 2-5. Jan. 10 at 4 p.m.: Bookworms Children Book Club,grade 2. At 7 p.m.: Scrabble Club Players of all levels welcome.

• Wednesdays in January at 10:30 a.m.: Winter Toddler Time for newborn to 2. Jan. 11 at 3 p.m.: Think It, Make It, Share It: Spin Art Kids under 9 must be accompanied by a guardian or responsible older sibling.

• Friday, Jan. 13 at 10:30 a.m.: Chair Yoga with Cherlyn. Class is outside if possible, but moves indoors in inclement weather. Online registration required.

12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100

• Adult Book Club meets on the first Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. or the second Monday of the month at noon. Call Lorissa at (201) 391-5090 or write lorissa.lightman@montvale.bccls.org and provide your name, telephone number, and BCCLS library barcode number.

•Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 10:30 a.m.: Tot Time Storytime.

•Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 4 p.m.: First Chapter Fun: A Reverse Book Club for Kids.

•Thursdays in January at 6:30 p.m.: Chess in the childrenʼs room, grades 3 and up. Registration required for each session.

Virtual Crafts with Miss Renee. Pick up a craft bag at the library.

• Saturday, Jan. 14 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Storytime with Miss Eileen.

R RIIVVEER R V VAALLE E

412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org

• Monday, Jan. 9 at 4 p.m.: Super Science: Make your own snow for grades 2-7. Registration required.

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 1 p.m.: Movie Matinee: “The Banshees of Inisherin.”

media. Kit includes a spice sample and recipe pamphlet. Please register. Cartooning with Mr. John at 5:30 p.m. Exploration of cartoon characters, techniques. Grades 3–5. Please register.

• Winter Story Times begin. Please register. Tuesdays: 2-Year-Old Story Time at 10 a.m. Song, movement, and stories. Thursdays: Pre-K Story Time at 3:45 p.m. Ages 3–5. Music, movement, story, social growth, and early literacy. Fridays: Infant through 2 years at 10 a.m. Story, song, and rhymes plus social playtime. Second Saturday of each month: Family Story Time at 10:30 a.m. A story, craft, and time to meet other families.

P

PAARRK K R RIIDDGGE E

51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org

• Monday, Jan. 9 at 11:30 a.m.: Yoga

•Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee.

• Thursday, Jan. 12 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee.

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 and 24 at 5 p.m.: Beginner Mahjongg Class, in two parts. You can attend Jan. 24 only if you attend Jan. 10. Adult players only. Registration required.

•Thursday, Jan. 12 at 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga. In-person; seats are first come, first served. Doors open 15 minutes prior to scheduled class time.

• Thursday, Jan. 12 at 4 p.m.: Winter Hat Craft for grades K-5. Registration required.

•Friday, Jan. 13 at 1 p.m.: Afternoon Mahjongg Club. Experienced adult players only. Bring your own tiles if possible.

W

144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586 twpofwashingtonpl.org

• Monday, Jan. 9:

•Tuesday, Jan. 10: Zoom Lessons 10 a.m. to noon. Learn how to use Zoom to attend lectures, programs, and virtual Township committee meetings. Canʼt make it today? Lessons also available Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2–4 pm. Please call or visit our website to register. Mat Yoga at 5:30 p.m. Open to all levels of practice. Please bring your own yoga mat and any props you may need, such as yoga blocks, straps, or bolster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in..

•Wednesday, Jan. 11: Crafts to Share at 3:45 p.m. Ages 4 and up with a caregiver. Make a snowman wreath with your child. Please register. Genealogy via Zoom at 7 p.m. Local genealogist Fred Voss helps you unravel the secrets of

M MOONNTTVVAALLE E

T TOOWWNNSSHHIIP P O OF F

WAASSHHIINNGGTTOON N

Russell Huntington honored for 45 years of legal guidance, care

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

WESTWOOD

The borough ran a lively, productive, and well attended 129th reorganization meeting at the Community Center on Jan. 3, aided in its pomp by a procession of the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department Color Guard.

Republican council incumbents Robert Bicocchi and Beth Dell were sworn in anew, and to cheers: Bicocchi was first elected in 2014, and 2023 starts his fourth term. Dell, appointed to Bob Millerʼs vacancy in September 2015, was elected in 2016 to finish Millerʼs term. She was elected again in 2017 to her own full term.

Dell was sworn in to her third full term by borough attorney Rus-

sell Huntington; Bicocchi was sworn in by his son, Philip Bicocchi, a notary — his dadʼs “permanent campaign manager.”

Council president for 2023 is Republican Chris Montana, returning to the role by unanimous vote of members — also including Republicans Cheryl Hodges and Anthony Greco, and Democrat Erin Collins.

On hand for the proceedings was state Sen. Holly Schepisi, making the rounds of valley-area

reorganization meetings, who joined the borough in lauding Huntington for his stalwart and lengthy service to Westwood. (She also was special counsel with Huntington Bailey LLP.)

Huntington was sworn in for his 46th term of service , and showered with praise. He was first appointed on Jan. 2, 1978, and for 45 years and more than 1,200 council meetings, the borough proclaimed, he “has faithfully served seven mayors and 48 councilmembers, providing wisdom, insight, and a peaceful presence on the dais.” His tenure covers 1,000 ordinances and 10,000 resolutions and counting.

The proclamation reads in part, “Russell Huntington has quietly

The Rev.JerQuentin Sutton of Lebanon Baptist Church leads a prayer circle benediction at the borough’s 129th reorganization meeting of the mayor and council,at Westwood Community Center,on Jan.3.The Rev.Andra Bell delivered the session’s warm invocation. John Snyder photo.

‘Uncle Matt’ Saunderswhistles agreement with action at Westwood’s 129th annual reorganization meeting,Jan.3 at the community center. John Snyder photo.

Mayor Ray Arroyo, borough attorney Russell Huntington,Lois Huntington, and councilmember Beth Dell at the borough’s reorganization meeting Jan.3 at the community center. John Snyder photo

influenced the policies and legislation of the borough that have created the well-ordered, attractive community we know and love; and no one in the Borough of West-

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Breakfast With the Mayors Jan. 18

Interested in how your town works? Where your taxes go? What our mayors see as priorities for 2023? Do you have a question or two for your mayor?

Tickets are on sale for the Greater Pascack Valley Area Chamber of Commerceʼs annual Breakfast with the Mayors, Wednesday, Jan. 18 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at The Iron Horse restaurant, 20 Washington Ave., Westwood.

During the all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast, each mayor (or their representative) briefly sets out their plans for the coming year in their town. The mayors also will field questions submitted by chamber members.

The Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce (GPVCOC) is non-profit organization dedicated to improving our community,

Tickets are on sale for the Greater Pascack Valley Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Breakfast with the Mayors.

specifically in the greater Pascack Valley. The mission of the organization is to build a better place to live and work.

For tickets to the breakfast and for more information, visit pas-

cackchamber.org For Pascack Press coverage of past annual breakfasts with the mayors, search Pascack Press online.

Montvale: Reorganization ’23

FROM PAGE 3

ney Lafferty.

Councilman Timothy Lane. reelected to his sixth term, said he thanked the other two mayors and 15 council members he has worked with since 2008. He said though they donʼt always share the same opinions, “We all shared an interest and desire to do whatʼs right for Montvale.”

He said residents should know that the council will face important, complex issues in the next several years. “Just know that we really do want your engagement and feedback.”

He said he served as liaison to Montvale Fire Department for 15 years and recognized top fire officials and volunteers. He congratulated new police chief McDowell and thanked former chief Sanfillipo.

Ghassali said he saw more changes for Montvale in 2023,

including: purchasing more properties as they become available to add recreation/open space; a new water tank tower; affordable housing for post-2025; new shared-service possibilities; a new waste collection contract; more road paving and sewer system upgrades; negotiations with a “major land owner” that may affect plans for a new community center and pool.

He would not provide any details about the land negotiations ongoing or possible impacts on the pool and community center location or cost. He said negotiations should conclude in a month when details will be made public.

He said $1.7 million more in property tax bills were paid in 2022 and in February an additional $1.2 million in tax bills will go out.

He said as new developments fill in 2023, an additional $1 million in tax revenue will flow back to Montvale, totaling a nearly $4 million increase

in tax revenue from this point forward.

Ghassali said this was his eighth year as mayor, constitutung his 13th year on the governing body. He said he was “always thrilled and happy to come to Borough Hall.”

He said he wondered what happened 100 years ago when the mayor addressed the council. He showed the 1923 Montvale mayorʼs report to council and the 1923 budget that totaled $20,859.48, which he found in the borough archives.

He said the mayorʼs report then cited traffic conditions that “endanger life” and requested the-then new sidewalk committee to make recommendations to council.

The 1923 mayor made six recommendations to council related to tax sales, fire protection, better records management, and providing some funds to the Board of Health, “should occasion arise making its use necessary.”

Staff report

Seating is available for up to 100. Catering is also offered and the restaurant has a full bar, including over 100 wines.

What

WESTWOOD

Senior Fellowship meets Jan.

Pull up a chair at Giulio’s Restaurant, where elegance meets affordable -and delicious -Italian cuisine.

Salmon Giulio stuffed with crabmeat

Community Calendar

FROM PAGE 10

your family tree. Call the Library to register with your name and email address so that we may send you the meeting link.

• Thursday, Jan. 12: Monthly Adult Craft Pick Up. Registered participants receive an email to pickup their painting kits. Anyone can watch along with the craft video, available on our website and

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

social media.

• Friday, Jan. 13: Coloring & Crafting at 1 p.m. Calling all coloring fans, stitchers, knitters, crocheters, and more: Craft and chat with friends. Refreshments, coloring supplies will be provided, or you can bring your own project.

First Friday Free Build at 3:45 p.m. Kindergarten and up. We supply the LEGO bricks, you supply

the creativity. Please register.

W WEESSTTWWOOOOD D 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org

• Thursdays, Jan. 5, Feb. 2, March 2, and April 6 at 3:45 p.m.

Anime Club: Crafting, games, trivia, Japanese snacks, book and movie reviews and a cosplay contest are planned.

• Monday, Jan. 9, 23, and 30, and Feb. 6 from 4:05 to 4:25 p.m.: Book Buddies: Practice reading

PBALocal 206 recognizes excellence

PBA Local 206 Township of Washington congratulates its officers who received awards Nov. 9, 2022:

•Cpl. Cangialosi received the distinguished community service award;

•PO Kenny received the apprehension award;

• Cpl. Ferrarini received the meritorious service award;

• Sgt Parsells, PO Osenbruck, and PO Sinatra received a critical care save award;

• PO Osenbruck and PO Sinatra received another critical care save award;

•Dispatcher Bilias received a civilian award; and

• Sgt. Glock received his PBA Membership Silver Award.

PBA Local 206 also swore in its newest member, PO OʼHanlon.

Easy Reader books with a Junior Library Council teen volunteer.

• Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 2 p.m.:

Essential Oil Hand Warmers: Combat the cold by making your own essential oil hand warmers. From 3:45 to 4:15 p.m.: Make Your Own Felt Snowman Craft:If you canʼt make a frosty snowman outside, you can make a felt craft snowman inside.

• Wednesdays in January from 10:30 to 11 a.m.: Peek-aBook Storytime helps your child get to know sounds, words and language and develop early-literacy skills.

• Thursday, Jan. 12 at 3:30, 4, 4:30, 5, and 5:30 p.m.: Whalemobile Visit: Learn how and why whales migrate and all about their unique anatomy. Youʼll enter Nile, the inflatable life-sized 45-foot humpback whale — and of course come out safely.

•Fridays in January at 11 a.m. Knitting & Crocheting Club: Gather to work on your current knitting and crocheting projects as you chat and socialize with fellow

HILLSDALE

Nile the Whalemobile! Just like humans,whales are individuals.See Westwood Public Library for more.

yarn-lovers. Bring your supplies and trade tips and ideas, share patterns, and create beautiful pieces alongside friends. All skill levels are welcome. Light refreshments served.

• Friday, Jan, 13, 20, and 27 from 10:30 to 11 a.m.: Sensory/Movement: Toddlers enjoy this interactive and sensory stimulating class with experienced educator and theater performer, Michele Traina.

•Thursday, Jan. 19 from 1 to 3 p.m: Movie Matinee: “The Banshees of Inisherin.”

Holiday lights contest winners

The winners of the Second Annual Hillsdale Holiday Lights Contest are:

•First Place: 194 Saddlewood Dr. — $500 gift card donated by Nichol DeGruccio, Coldwell Banker.

•Second Place: 494 Piermont Ave. — $250 gift card

by Debra Ginetto, The Burton Agency Inc.

•Third Place: 17 Maple Ave. — $100 gift card donated by Game Zone.

Officers honored Nov.9,2022: Chief Richard Skinner,Dispatcher William Bilias,Corporal Jason Gugger,Police Officer Michael Sinatra,Police Officer Christopher Osenbruck,Sergeant Richard Parsells,Corporal Michael Ferrarini, Corporal Travis Cangialosi,Police Officer Clayton Kenny,Captain John Calamari,Police Officer Ian O'Hanlon,Police Officer Alyssa Bobadilla, Lieutenant Arsenio Pecora and Corporal Vincent Santa.

Via PBALocal 206 Township of Washington

donated

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Thoughts on milk and other dairy products

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.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

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. 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.

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 wellbeing, 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 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.

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

Spin fundraiser on Dominique’s

Join the fun at a spin fundraiser at Vision Sports Club in Pearl River, N.Y. on what would have been Park Ridge resident Dominique Francoʼs 25th birthday

The event is Sunday, Jan. 8 from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Funds raised benefit Dominiqueʼs Journey Foundation (dominiquesjourney.com ), helping continue her legacy of love in action for St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital and Hackensack University Medical Center, the two organizations she was so passionate, from a young age, in supporting.

Canʼt make it? Venmo your donation to domsjourney Mike and Gina Franco started their non-profit foundation to honor their daughter, Dominque Franco, who passed away sudden-

ly on Feb. 16, 2019, at 21.

Dominque was in her junior year at the University of Rhode Island, studying to be a nurse, and was president of her sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha. Her dream job was to be a pediatric oncology nurse at St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital.

“She lit up the entire room with her amazing smile. She had a heart of gold and was truly determined to change the world and make it a better place,” Gina told Pascack Press on Jan. 3.

She added, “My job as her mom is to carry her forward and keep honoring her the best I can and our family is most grateful for everyone whoʼs stood by and continues to stand by our side.”

— John Snyder

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 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.

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

Westwood: Reorg

FROM PAGE 12

wood is as universally respected and beloved as Borough Attorney Russell R. Huntington.”

Mayor Ray Arroyo added: “One of the most formative aspects of my public service was to have the good fortune of sitting next to David Rutherford, the ZBA attorney, for seven years and after moving to council sitting next to Russ for 10. Two calm reasonable pragmatic attorneys, both gentlemen.”

He said, “Russ took me to dinner when I first went up to council and told me that no matter how cer-

HILLSDALE

tain I was on any given issue, how well researched —I could be wrong.”

He said, “And so it was important to listen to your colleagues, be open to persuasion, try to find compromise and in the end support the consensus. Defer to the collective wisdom of the people who trust you and in turn in whom you should trust. Humility, what a concept.”

Arroyo characterized justretired WWPD deputy chief Jay Hutchinson tongue-in-cheek as “shy and quiet,” known for correcting junior officers in “soothing, hushed tones…”

And he thanked “the people behind the glass” at Borough Hall, “the people who make Westwood click.” He said, “It can be an unglamorous grind but so vitally necessary to Westwoodʼs orderly functioning. We appreciate you all.”

He touched on the contribution of each councilmember, underscoring the professionalism, humility, and respect that he said defined Westwood. “Under the stewardship of these six councilmembers, professional advisors, and borough staff, Westwood is in the best possible position to weather the economic downturn that the experts are predicting.”

Arroyo added in part “The landing will be softer” here because of Westwoodʼs caring culture and

Board of Fire Officers sworn for 2023

the network of churches and NGOs that have consistently picked our people up when we have fallen down.”

Dell thanked many, starting with her husband, Mark, and their children, Matthew and Nicholas.

In chipper remarks she lauded then-newly elected mayor Arroyo for his handling of the local aspects of the coronavirus. “To work with all those on this governing body who share so much of their time, talents, and their families remains a treasured part of my life.”

She thanked “my council partner, Rob Bicocchi, and the incredible team seated with us on this dais! Rob, who was directed here by the late great Westwood Mayor, Skip Kelly, approached me in 2015, and we have never looked back. Thank you once again for the invite into your special family and this front row seat of Westwood.”

Bicocchi thanked his wife, Roseann, “whoʼs been by my side through my elections. For the past 27 years of marriage, which includes the 10-plus years serving the borough.” He thanked Philip and other family members, and his supporters.

Bicocchi was one of several that night to thank the recently departed former mayor Skip Kelley, Schepisiʼs uncle.

Bicocchi said Kelley, known affectionately as “The Mayor,” asked him to get involved in town in 1996, first as a member of the Planning Board. “There I got to see how the foundation was laid out.”

He said in part that Kelley lay the groundwork for, among other fixtures of the borough, the firehouse, Westvale Park, and Westwoodʼs Home for the Holidays, and that “the downtown …continues to

evolve with the times and is revered throughout the state.”

Bicocchi thanked the residents and singled out “my running mate, my council wife,” Dell, “whose energy is unstoppable and what we accomplished in three terms together is one for the books.”

The meeting included designation of council committee assignements; appointment of borough professionals; appointment to various boards; mayorʼs appointments; an annoucement that a schedule of budget meetings would be posted presently; and a full list of consent agenda items, all voted on and enacted with one motion. (See the agenda, online.)

Oaths of office of ambulance corps officials

President Rush Sherman, Vice President Janet Dunn, Captain Kris Rasmussen, 1st Lt. Nicole De Joie, 2nd Lt. Jeri Bowman, Treasurer Jerry Sheridan, Secretary Bonnie Costello, and trustees Jeri Bowman, Matthew Foley, Kali Spoelstra, and Dan Olivier.

Oaths

of office for fire department officials

Chief James Voorhis, Deputy Chief Brian Kronewitter, Senior Capt. Brian Wiecenski, Capt. Scott Stewart, 1st Lt. Michael Griffin Jr, 2nd Lt. Ryan Weaver, 3rd Lt. Matthew Voorhi, 4th Lt. Justin Mason.

Volunteer Emergency Services Hall of Fame

Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps recognized Capt. Matt

Mayor John Ruocco swore in the Board of Fire Officers for their positions on Jan. 1. Pictured left to right: Chief Dan Schuster, Capt. Chris Kelley, Capt. Joe Solda III, Lt. Joe Solda Jr., Lt. Ray DeGroat, Lt. Tom Dunn, and Deputy Chief Bill Farrell. Not pictured: Lt. George Lucia Jr. — Hillsdale Happenings

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

Kudos to WWRSD Governor’s Educators of the Year

In her message to district families on Dec. 9, 2022, superintendent Jill Mortimer congratulated staff members identified as Governorʼs Educators of the Year:

•Berkeley elementary: Kari Binder,

• Brookside Elementary School: Julia Acosta;

•Jessie F. George Elementary School: Rebecca Duda;

• Washington Elementary School: Deb Cummings; and

•Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School: Henry Chen.

Mortimer said, “This program strives to recognize educators who have gone above and beyond in their service to New Jerseyʼs students.”

She added, “Teachers of the Year will receive an award certificate from their County office of education. We will present those certificates at an upcoming board meeting. We recognize all of our hardworking staff members, and we are very happy to highlight these special individuals.”

School expansion

Mortimer also addressed steps taken toward an expansion of a district elementary school. “The district initiated the process of planning for an expansion to Washington Elementary School in order to accommodate an anticipated increase in enrollment in the Township. We are starting with a

site survey, and then our architect will make a schematic application to the NJDOE.”

She said, “We have been advised the review of that application will take at least six months. Construction could start in the fall of 2024 and could be finished in the fall of 2026.”

(See “Washington School expansion planned,” Pascack Press, Jan. 2, 2023.)

Kindergarten registration

Kindergarten registration for

the 2023–2024 school year opened at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 3. Visit the districtʼs website for more information.

Brookside school principal

The Brookside School principal advertisement was to be posted right after the New Year. A committee of administrators and staff members will conduct interviews. Mortimer said she anticipates the board will appoint a permanent principal for the 2023–2024 school year at its March meeting.

Acting principal leaving Washington school acting principal Dr. Schoenlank left the district, as planned, at the end of December. Mortimer said, “We are grateful to her for her energy, expertise, and the relationships she made with students and staff. Mrs. Gomez, our elementary school

assistant principal, will serve as acting principal of Washington School from Jan. 1 until Mrs. Palianto returns from her maternity leave in mid-February.”

She said, “Mrs. Gomez is spending the month of December at Washington School in order to get to know the staff and students before she takes over. Retired educator Mrs. Van Ess will be back from early January to mid-February to assist Mrs. Hughes in running Brookside School.

Mortimer also wished families happy holidays, saying “The New Year is a time of reflection and setting intentions. It is my wish that all of our families and staff members know their importance to the school district.”

She said, “There is no greater honor or challenge than preparing the next generation for their contributors to our global wellbeing. It is our collective responsibility, and it is one that I take very seriously. I come here every day with enthusiasm, energy, and a commitment to making prudent decisions that affect 2,800 students and 500 staff members.”

— John Snyder

Change is in the air: The Westwood Regional High School Woodwind Ensemble,under the direction of M.Daniel Peña,performs a sampling of holiday classics at the Dec.15,2022 meeting of the school board.Superintendent Jill Mortimer says the board is starting on a a site survey toward the expansion of Washington Elementary School,and then the district’s architect will make a schematic application to the state department of education. WWRSD screenshot

RAISING KIDS TO HAVE MONEY SMARTS

Parents have a responsibility to teach their children about finances—and t hatʼs true for wealthy families and less affluent families alike.

Kids are smart enough to pick up on signals that their family may have more than others. But if the conversation stops at the benefits that money can bring, youʼre missing out on important life lessons. Theyʼre not really being taught how to be financially responsible once they leave the house and become independent. What steps can parents take to teach both sensitivity and responsibility about money?

S tep 1: Find teachable moments. It can be difficult to find time to sit down and talk specifically about wealth, but natural opportunities to teach pop up

every day.

For example, you can incorporate financial responsibility into an impromptu math lesson about money: If you find something that originally cost $100 and itʼs on sale for 30% off, you can ask kids how much the new price is—and, now that they are only spending $70, what they might do with the $30 thatʼs left.

Step 2: Take a lifelong view toward financial literacy. Every child, and especially those who will one day inherit substantial wealth, should have a tool kit of basic financial literacy skills by 18, including concepts such as how to spend, how to save, how to give, and the value of a dollar.

This can start very early with an exercise as simple as a three piggy banks analogy. You encourage the child to divide any money he or she receives into three piggy b anks: spending, saving, and community/charity. This shows

the concept of different types or purposes of money as opposed to all being for spending. Repeating this exercise can help ingrain the habit of saving regularly.

By late childhood or adolescence, parents can add concepts such as what it means to invest, what companies one might invest in, and how you assess risk with an investment.

You can encourage children in high school to think about college expenses logically by examining the costs and coming up with a credible college budget. Ask them to consider basic questions: What will you need in order to make this happen? What will the family need to supply, and what is the student expected to supply, in terms of tuition, books, room and board, transportation, and normal spending money?

And parents and grandparents can continue to encourage

Kaplan: On brain health

FROM PAGE 17

recommended to eliminate dairy products because they are the biggest triggers of autoimmune disease.

People say milk strengthens bones but consider:at a certain amount of consumption a sugar in milk, D-galactose, is shown to increase bone fractures.

To keep your bones strong and healthy, you need movement, sunlight, weight resistance exercises, green leafy vegetables, and high levels of Vitamin D.

If you are interested in learning more about your health, we are offering qEEG brain mapping at all of our offices to dis-

cover 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 neurological evalu-

ation, but for the rest of January we are offering this amazing brain mapping session for only $21. This is done in our Emerson and New York Citylocations, and you must email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com or call (201) 261-2150 to reserve a spot now as 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

responsible, long-term financial responsibility by giving young adults an incentive to begin saving for retirement early. If youʼre a ble, and they have earned income, offer to match what they save into a Roth IRA. Itʼs also wise to coax contributions to a 401(k) at work.

Step 3: Show your kids h ow itʼs done. Your childʼs healthy relationship with money begins with an open and honest relationship within a family that models good money behavior. These discussions can be chall enging, but the fruit is well worth the labor.

Stress education and expect them to do well in school. The parents who do really well in teaching financial literacy typically lead by example—they tend to be savers, and theyʼre more careful with spending money. Remember to be that example.. Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice.

Be sure to consult with your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax consequences. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate p lanning and is licensed to practice law in your state.

This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial A dvisor, Managing Director–Investments in Park Ridge at (201) 505-0472.

I nvestments in securities and insurance products are not F DIC-insured/not bank-guaranteed and may lose value.

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered brokerdealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

© 2022 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

L. SCOTTBERKOBEN, P.A. AProfessional Corporation Attorneys at Law

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used by literally thousands of people over the last 30 years, all seeking and receiving solid professional advice and service.

We’ve been trained to serve your needs and solve your problems and, for the most part that’s what we do. Obviously, every case is not winable and every crisis doesn’t vanish over night...but appropriate measures taken at the right time can improve situations that once looked hopeless.

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WHS Class of 1972 makes merry at 50th

Letters:

tions to come in ways that are clear and defined. Our biggest fear should be that the embarrassment of our mayor and councilʼs infighting causes residents to mistake the middle school for another boondoggle, instead of the vital investment that it is.

Jonathan Braunstein Hillsdale

Recalling Richard Rosencrans

To the editor:

IN THE 1940S MGM had as part of its programming a filler movie, “The Passing Parade,” consisting of stories on history and notable people. When I learned recently that a friend of mine, Richard “Dick” Rosencrans, had died I thought of him as a participant in the passing parade. He was one of the oldest members of American Legion Post 153, Park Ridge.

I met this charming gentleman a number of years ago when our post had a special program honoring those who served during World War II and became known as the Greatest Generation. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at 17 and served for three years in the Pacific Theater — stationed in the Philippines, among other locations. He was

A Westwood New Year’s celebration

To the editor:

trained as a radio operator specialist for the planned invasion of Japan in 1945 when the war ended.

Dick as he was known by friends and family was later recalled and served during the Korean conflict. He was predeceased by Helen, his wife of over 55 years, and is survived by three children as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren. This individual who always down-

played his accomplishments was a member of our post for 38 years.

After graduating from Lyndhurst High School he graduated from Bergen Junior College under the GI Bill. It wasnʼt until many years later that I learned that he, too, was born in Jersey City and later lived in Hoboken. Coincidentally I learned that we both had taken our basic training at Sampson Air Force Base, he with the Navy and me with the USAF.

His life career was in law enforcement, serving with distinction for the Port Authority, the Bergen County Police Department, as well as the Bergen County Sheriffʼs Department. He was instrumental in developing the first Bergen County communication system. He was quick-witted, and respected by all he worked

with.

Mr. Rosencrans was laid to rest in Westwood Cemetery on Jan. 4. It was my privilege and honor to have known this individual as a member of Post 153 who was a respected member of the Greatest Generation. The younger generations who followed him and those who served in World War II and Korea can never repay those who served as Richard did. Rest in peace, my comrade and friend.

Dick Bozzone Park Ridge Legion Post 153ʼs historian and a past commander

A

HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who braved the mist to celebrate with us for the third Celebrate Westwood (early) New Yearʼs Eve! This event was made possible thanks to the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department and their rig of the illuminated ball, Westwood Police Department, the music of Kyle Towey and his band, the support of Westwood Recreation, Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo and council, the talented Westwood Regional High School students who stepped in as Frozenʼs Anna, Elsa, and Christof, Conradʼs Confectionery, Fritz Dietl Ice Skating Rink and Tom Laidlaw New York Rangers, and the volunteers who stepped in to assist, particularly our New Yearʼs wish tree MVP Alyssa Blundo, and photographer Richard Frant!

And of course our amazing sponsors: Mount Everest, The Melting Pot, Meals on Wheels North Jersey, Fritz Dietl Ice Skating Rink, Pure Hair Studio, Lucky Eden Photography Studio, Westwood Recreation Department!

Best wishes for a wonderful new year, Westwood!

Celebrate Westwood; photos by Richard Frant of FrantVisuals

Editorʼs note: We have Richard Rosencransʼs obituary in this issue, on page 30.

ROSENCRANS BOZZONE

The WHS Class of 1972 celebrated 50 years on Sept. 21, 2022 at Seasons in Washington Township. Following that venue, many classmates gathered down the road at the Dog House Saloon for more reminiscing. The festivities continued the next evening at Cornerstone in Hillsdale. A great time was had by all!

Model: Representing Hillsdale and shining a light

FROM PAGE 1

trol seizures, but for others, the seizures eventually go away. Some children with epilepsy may outgrow the condition with age.”

Conti has struggled with epilepsy all her life, though episodes had tapered off in recent years. In late 2021, after suffering her first seizure in eight years, she lost her driving privileges for the first half of 2022.

Her doctorʼs precaution, applied while new medication stabilized her, felt like punishment for something she couldnʼt control.

“Even though I knew that wasnʼt the case — I knew Iʼm not being punished — nobody understood me; not even the doctor understood me,” Conti said.

She added, “But I knew that other people deal with this for longer some people canʼt drive at all.”

The setback seemed poised to renew her sense of isolation. “When I was in high school, middle school, elementary school, I 100% felt completely alone because I didnʼt see anybody in the wider world, or my immediate world, who dealt with it. The only thing I saw was people making fun of it. So I felt extremely isolated, and thatʼs why it was so hard to come out and speak about it.”

Conti (on Instagram as thechristinaconti) is familiar with modeling and pageants — she started competing at 6, then put it on hold to enjoy her studies and sports at Bergen County Christian Academy.

Amid the coronavirus lockdown she followed up on Miss New Jersey USAʼs call for contestants on Instagram. She got in, and in 2021 competed. She advanced to the semifinals but didnʼt place. It was a

solid learning experience.

“My pageant mindset until this had been pretty shallow — that it was all about how you looked, how you performed, and thatʼs all I focused on going in that year. It became evident this pageant system is based on what you can bring to the table… what youʼve experienced and what you can shed light on for the community and the world.”

She said, “So I started to think. Iʼm like, Oh, wow, duh; I have struggled with having epilepsy my entire life. This was something I had never been comfortable talking about because I was heavily bullied in school for it, when I was younger. So I became really self-conscious about it and awkward about it.”

Conti said, “I realized, OK, if this is something I want to do, if this is something I want to compete for, if this is a title I want, then I have to get comfortable with the uncomfortable things.”

She started working with the Epilepsy Foundation of America, becoming an ambassador for them, and helping raise funds and awareness.

When she competes again sheʼll certainly have more to offer. “Instead of ʻHow well can I perform, how expensive is my dress,ʼIʼll have ʻHow much light can I shed on this topic that is very important to me and that I know other people struggle with.ʼ”

The Miss USA Organization bills itself as “a globally recognized pageant platform that celebrates the unique beauty of women across all cultures. We remain relevant in mainstream culture, as we connect young women to their own beauty and help activate their voice.”

It says, “We are a sisterhood in arms, a family of movers and shakers in beauty and business, poised to positively impact the status of women by bringing pageants to the everyday lives of everyday Americans.”

The reigning Miss New Jersey USA is Alexandra Lakhman, a 26year old, first-generation UkrainianAmerican from Hoboken. Sheʼs a digital marketing associate manager working for a Fortune 500 company.

Her biography on the pageant website says “Alexandra comes from a family where her younger brother is diagnosed with a progressive physical disability, spinal muscular atrophy. This disease is the leading genetic cause of death for infants, with no cure to date.”

Contestants are judged in three areas of competition: interview, swimsuit (miss) or activewear (teen), and evening Gown. Judging criteria includes character, poise, confidence, and personality.

There is no performing talent competition.

The organization says, “Whether youʼre 4 feet tall or 7 feet tall it doesnʼt matter. In the swimsuit portion of the competition, the judges will be looking for physical fitness, which includes a healthy and fit body. Thereʼs usually a wide range of body styles and types for the Top 10 Finalists each year. Weʼre looking for outgoing, intelligent, confident, attractive young women excited to represent the beauty of New Jersey.”

It says most of its contestants are newcomers to pageants.

Reaching out and rising up Contiʼs pageant is in March, in Parsippany-Troy Hills. Win or lose, she looks forward to hosting a fundraiser for the Epilepsy Foundation of America this year and deepening her relationship with the organization—and working toward “seizure-safe schools.”

Also, through Instagram, she recently became involved with a social media awareness project organized by the Cameron Boyce Foundation, which was established in 2019 to honor the legacy of Cameron Boyce “by aiming to cure epilepsy through funding research, education and awareness campaigns while still supporting causes that were important to Cameron.”

Conti has a coach to help her compete, not only with interview preparation but also in refining her brand.

And she has the full support of her family — her parents (she says her mom has roots in Bermuda and Trinidad and that her dad is Italian); her 5-year-old brother; her 13-yearold sister; and her grandparents.

Of her brand, she says, “I have so much and itʼs kind of hard to wrap my head around how to break that down.” What emerges is that this is Contiʼs chance to be the spokesperson on epilepsy she did not have growing up.

And she could have used an advocate, a warm and friendly face on the other side of an episode.

Of the seizures sheʼd get that made her appear to suddenly zone

out, she says, “Of course kids will look at you and think youʼre crazy and will snap in your face and be really mean about it. They donʼt realize thatʼs a seizure; they arenʼt putting that together.”

Conti also would suffer seizures that had her “hysterically laughing and then transitioning to hysterically sobbing.” Her symptoms are “things that people need to be aware of: Itʼs not somebody being crazy or losing their mind; these are uncontrollable seizures that people experience. It doesnʼt always look like what you might think it looks like.”

Losing her license temporarily had forced her to open up – to educators at Montclair State University, where sheʼs studying marketing — and in getting rides to college.

Once people understood a bit more about her life, so much more became possible for her, she says.

“My brand is me shining light on a situation that took me to a dark place that some people are still in, and I want people to realize you donʼt have to be in a dark place. Other people experience these things. It means my being a spokesperson, if you will, for something that I never saw someone being a spokesperson for, growing up.”

Thatʼs not to say she lacked support. “My parents were always very supportive and helpful but as far as being at school and having friends and everything like that, nobody fully got it. But itʼs OK. Itʼs life.”

Her message is “Itʼs OK to tell your teachers, your bosses, and the people around you that this is something you struggle with, as it does affect your everyday life. And thatʼs something that losing my license taught me: it helped me come out of

my shell a lot more.”

Although epileptic seizures can be triggered by stress, Conti says sheʼs not worried about stepping up for Miss New Jersey USA. Sheʼs faced worse.

“Covid life. I was a senior that year. That was an absolutely insane time: no senior trip, no prom, and graduation was weird. I was valedictorian of my senior class. That was something I worked on for a really long time, and then preparing a speech, and then [not to have the expected graduation ceremony] it was really hard. It was something I wanted for a long time.”

In contrast, the pageant isnʼt a big deal. “Iʼm not concerned only because I have a lot of fun with this. I donʼt take anything too seriously when it comes to this. Itʼs just fun for me. At the end of the day itʼs just a pageant. Itʼs not life or death and Iʼm not going to get stressed out.”

Her plans after high school donʼt necessarily involve pageants, though if she wins Miss New Jersey USA she might take it a step further “Once I graduate I would love to get my masterʼs in marketing, and would love to be a marketing executive for a major fashion brand.”

Asked what advice she might offer a young person developing their own brand, she said, “Be yourself, know yourself, and donʼt lose sight of whatʼs important to yourself.”

For Conti, she said, “Thatʼs my faith. Iʼm a Christian, so thatʼs incredibly important to me; family is incredibly important to me; and just knowing myself. Those three things have helped me navigate everything.”

Christina Conti was a semifinalist for Miss NJ USA in 2021,representing Hillsdale.She’s going back for the title in March.(Courtesy photo)

Mayors: Agree in principle on stipends said critical

FROM PAGE 1

Boro VAC requested a $100,000 budget bump from each town to help establish a volunteer stipend program that would offer volun-

the Borough Council to decide how much they ultimately wanted to contribute to the corps “to keep the ambulance corps functioning at levels that we need to have them functioning at.”

patients for non-emergency calls.

He said that charging them a fee or possibly fining them might pressure the facilities to hire their own ambulance services. He said though most facilities had agreed

vice Awards Program.

The volunteer ambulance corps has served the tri-borough area for 84 years, and lately has experienced declines in volunteers due to Covid-19, lack of volunteer time for two-income families, plus growing state certification demands for EMS volunteers.

In a letter sent to Montvale councilman Chris Roche on Oct. 19, 2022 titled TBVAC Stipend Proposal , the corps said the Covid-19 pandemic made volunteer recruitment and retention difficult.

Rendo said that some nursing homes in the tri-borough area were using the ambulance service to provide medical assistance and transportation, despite previously agreeing to contract with private ambulance services for their resi-

dents. He said administrator Tom Padilla was helping with the situation and trying to liaise.

Noting Tri-Boroʼs request for funding, he said, “But still they need help in recruitment, in keeping the levels of participation at its high and to make sure that our communities are serviced.”

Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna added, “We (mayors) all feel that we can generate much of the necessary funding by submitting bills to insurance companies of those individuals using Tri-Boro that have medical insurance while still providing the service free of charge to those individuals that do not have coverage. That would be a change in how Tri-Boro does business but may just be the answer we need.”

teers contributing 60 or more hours per month a stipend of $750 per month.

The corps said such a stipend program would help recruit and retain volunteers, who must maintain increasing state training and certification requirements to serve on a volunteer basis.

In an email to the Woodcliff Lake and Park Ridge mayors Dec. 15, Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali states, “I would be in support of the payment and avoid to the best that we can a paid ambulance service.” The volunteer corpsʼ request estimated a private ambulance service could cost a million dollars, or more, to establish for the three towns.

A Dec. 15 email from Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo to business administrator Tom Padilla notes, “I met with mayors Ghassali and Misciagna concerning Tri-Boro. They are in agreement as to the stipend. I would like to appoint Councilwoman Higgins to be the point person for us on this issue,” wrote Rendo. Higgins is also a volunteer ambulance corps member.

At the Dec. 22 council meeting, Rendo appointed Higgins, councilman Benjamin Pollack and councilwoman Jennifer Margolis to a committee to address the issue. Rendo said that it was up to

Ghassali told Pascack Press Jan. 3 that the boroughʼs budget committee would consider the funding request at its Jan. 9 meeting, and he said though no formal meeting had been held, he believed “a majority” of council supported the funding. He said a resolution on funding the increase was likely at an upcoming meeting.

He said while some research he had done estimated the costs of the stipend program at between $60,000 to $100,000 annually, an appropriation of $100,000 would make sense, with whatever funds that were not needed being returned to the town.

He also noted the three towns would be further discussing the best approach to working with nearby nursing homes and assisted living facilities who have been regularly using the volunteer ambulance service to transport

to hire private ambulances, they generally use the Tri-Boro squad, putting a strain on its resources. He said how to handle such calls was “still in discussion” between the towns.

Officials familiar with the Tri-Boro request (we posted the letter on our website, pascackpress.com) told Pascack Press that without an increase in funding to retain certified emergency volunteers, the towns face a possibility that they may need to obtain alternate or private ambulance services to provide 24/7 coverage from a full-time, paid, professional company that could potentially cost $1 million or more, yearly.

Right now, some volunteers receive nominal pension compensation via the stateʼs LOSAP program, which is for emergency services volunteers enrolled (generally after five continuous years of service) in the Length of Ser-

Seniors meet Jan. 12

Palisade

The Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps,serving Woodcliff Lake,Park Ridge and Montvale,is seeking up to $100,000 in stipend funding from each.It receives $20,000 in support from each town now.(Courtesy photo)

EMERSON

The Emerson senior citizens set their January membership meeting for Thursday, Jan. 12 at noon at the clubhouse, 20

Ave. The Valley Hospital will present on improving memory. Refreshments willbe served.

Council: New limits on signs festooning store windows

FROM PAGE 1

of signs for advertising for new tenants at the Washington Town Center, limiting the signs to a

Washington Town Center LLC, which manages the 14-acre shopping mall with 126,000 square feet of retail space, including 36 stores and 475 parking spaces. The shop-

“ was a good compromise” because he has seen it sometimes get out of hand. He said signage is “better neater than messy.”

Ullman asked if the police

ants if the shopping center owner, Washington Town Center LLC, allows them to place signage. He said it was the ownerʼs “prerogative” to allow or not allow signage in shop windows.

Poller said while a maximum of 40% may be allowed under local ordinance, that does not give a tenant permission to put signage in the window. He said the tenantproperty owner governs what is permitted in windows but the coverage cannot exceed 40%.

Mayor Peter Calamari wondered if the ordinance might be amended to exclude town notices that could be useful to promote local events. Poller said he was not sure how that would work.

Councilwoman Daisy Velez had noted that many shop owners want their windows and business

to look attractive. She said many had allowed signs promoting township programs and events previously until the township started enforcing the signage ordinance.

Meanwhile, the Zoning Board of Appeals is hearing an application on two new retail buildings comprising more than 17,000 square feet of retail space — one of 14,700 square feet and one of 2,400 square feet — north of Seasons.

The site contains several dilapidated houses.

Floor plans provided offer a glimpse of the applicantsʼthinking on tenants: a deli, sporting goods store, beauty salon, bank, breakfast place, juice/gelato store, and cellular phone store.

maximum of 46 inches high by 35 inches wide.

Over the years, residents complained about window signage in commercial businesses at the Washington Town Center, 285 Pascack Road.

Other commercial window signage had come under fire for its appearance.

On Dec. 19, residents Michael Ullman and MaryAnn Ozment took exception with window signage at various commercial locations. Ozment said the original request was from a private business owner at Town Center who asked for no signage in any windows at the private mall.

Alex DiChiara is president of

ping center at 285 Pascack Road has operated since 1959.

DiChiara told Pascack Press that he preferred tenants not have signs in windows and said he was “not convinced that all that signage” increases business or patronage. He said local officials did not reach out to him on the ordinance changes.

He said he was “all for whatever potentially benefits the tenants…Iʼm for anything that helps tenants do more business.”

He said he has rules prohibiting signage on most leases but did not generally police it if the signs “are neat and orderly, whatever promotes good business.”

DiChiara said the 40% limit

department had been consulted to discuss security concerns, whether doors were part of the indoor window space, and cited two local service stations who appeared to be in violation of the 40% limit.

He said he felt the 40% limit would have a negative impact on the visual appeal of the shopping center and other commercial storefronts.

Town attorney Kenneth Poller said window space did not include doors and Council President Desserie Morgan said the police should be able to see into a business without obstruction.

Poller said the window coverage limits imposed by the ordinance affect the Town Center ten-

Foley; the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department recognized firefighter/VP Matt Velthaus.

Celebrate Westwood later posted, “We have had the absolute pleasure to work with both Matts over the years and are truly appreciative and impressed by their service and dedication to our community.”

Volunteer of the Year

Photographer Richard Frant is volunteer of the year for 2022. The borough noted he has photographed all of Celebrate Westwoodʼs projects since 2020; Westwood Recreation events such as the summer concerts and Halloween parade; Home for the Holidays; historic Westwood properties for the Westwood Historic Preservation Commission; Heritage Society events such as the installation of the historic markers at the train station; the Westwood Community Band concerts; various Westwood Regional School District projects; various library and Friends of the Library programs; the Memorial

Day parade; 9/11 and Veterans Day services; Coach Roscoe Draperʼs 103rd birthday celebration; and emergency services events.

Editorʼs note: More stories from this meeting, and other town and school district reorganizations, are in the works.

Washington Town Center,285 Pascack Road,essentially constitutes the township’s downtown.

OBITUARIES

Richard L. ‘Dick’ ROSENCRANS

Richard L. “Dick” Rosencrans, 96, of Park Ridge, the son of Charles E. and Meda M. (née Zimmerman) Rosencrans, passed away on Dec. 29, 2022.

Predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Helen C. (né e Markovich), the love of his life.

Survived by three children: Richard C. Rosencrans and wife, Karen, Clyde, N.C.; David Rosencrans, Wappingers Falls, N.Y.; Lynn Rosencrans-Morgan and husband, Tim, Old Tappan.

Three grandchildren: Richard J. Rosencrans and wife Lindsey, Portland, Oregon; Kelly Michel and husband Aaron, Seattle, Wash., and Brian R. Morgan, Park Ridge. Three great-grandchildren: Reed George, Lillian Jane, Rose Helen and one more on the way.

Born in Jersey City, he moved from Hoboken to Lyndhurst as a baby, meeting Helen as a child. He graduated Lyndhurst High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at 17 and was sent to Sampson NTS in New York for basic training. He then trained for special radio operations in Bedford Springs, Penn, in preparation for the possible invasion of Japan, serving in the Philippines during WWII, and on the USS Winston AKA-94, Naval Amphibious Operations during the Korean conflict. He graduated from Bergen Junior College on the G.I. Bill.

Richard found his lifeʼs career in law enforcement, serving with both the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Bergen County police departments prior to 30 years with the Bergen County Sheriffʼs Department.

He was instrumental in the establishment of the first countywide law enforcement communications program, retiring as captain. Richard enjoyed camping and fishing with his family and traveling

the East Coast with his trailer, spending much time in Florida and Pennsylvania.

He was a neighborhood character, walking his beloved dogs, strolling the neighborhood or in his garden. Quick-witted, he was always good for a joke or to tell you a story. He lived life his own way on his own terms.

Visitation Wednesday, Jan. 4 from 10 a.m. to noon at Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge. Interment in Westwood Cemetery, Westwood.

Donations to RBARI, Ramapo Bergen Animal Rescue Inc. or Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Jean Carol AYTON

Jean Carol (Strough) Ayton, 93, was born in Fulton, N.Y. on Dec. 26, 1928, to educators Lyndon H. Strough and Winifred (Near) Strough. She grew up in Niagara Falls, N.Y. and graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1945. Growing up, she enjoyed reading, writing, poetry, and swimming.

She attended Syracuse University. She studied speech and English, enjoyed the Chi Omega sorority, and graduated in 1950. She then obtained a masterʼs degree in education at Cornell University.

In the mid-Fifties, she moved to Bergenfield to work in remedial education, a career she enjoyed until she became a mother: In 1958, she met the love of her life, Edward Ayton. They were married in September 1959. Their only child, David, was born in May 1961. In 1963 they settled in Woodcliff Lake, where she lived for 51 years. They belonged to the First Congregational Church, where she was a leader in Sunday

school and active as a lay worship leader.

She and her husband volunteered in Boy Scout Troop 349; she served on the troop committee and provided secretarial services.

Once her son was grown she started a new career at Emerson Public Library, where she enjoyed serving the public and maintaining the circulation. She retired in 2008.

She shared a passion for writing with her granddaughters. She was a skilled editor, helping friends and family with their literary projects.

In recent years she moved to Dorothy Love Retirement Community in Sidney, Ohio to be near her son and his family.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years. She is survived by her son, David Ayton, and his wife, Kendra; grandchildren Eliza Lee (Stephen), Melissa Cosmos (Joshua), and great-grandchildren Anna Lee and Myla Cosmos.

She also is survived by her niece Melinda Boyce (Henry) and her nephew Jim Ayton (Beatrice), as well as her cousin William Hullet (Judy).

In keeping with Jeansʼs wishes she will be cremated and a memorial service will be held in Park Ridge in the spring. Condolences may be left for the Ayton family at salm-mcgillandtangemanfh.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ohioʼs Hospice of Dayton or the First Congregational Church of Park Ridge. SalmMcGill and Tangeman Funeral Home is honored to be taking care of the Ayton family.

Angelo COLELLA

Angelo Colella of Park Ridge passed away, peacefully, on Saturday, Dec. 24, 2022. Beloved husband of Bar-

bara (née Karlstromer) for 37 years. Devoted father of Antonella Colella; Jerry Colella and his wife, Georgia, Karyn Miller, and the late Anthony Colella.

Dear brother of Maria. Cherished grandfather of Damon, Alyssa, Melina, Brian and Antonio. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Angelo graduated culinary school in Italy. He had owned Old Homestead in Great Neck, N.Y. and Mama Sorentoʼs in Forest Hills, N.Y. and currently owned 103 Prime at Valentinoʼs (Valentinoʼs of Park Ridge).

Visitation 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 2 at Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road Park Ridge, rsfhi.com. Funeral service is Tuesday, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Entombment in Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery, West Palm Beach, Fla.

William MULLER JR.

William Muller Jr., 89, of Woodcliff Lake, formerly of Park Ridge, passed away on Friday, Dec. 30, 2022. William is survived by his niece Janet Schultheis-Cook; his nephew Ralph Schultheis and his wife Donna Schultheis; as well as his great-nephew Ryan Schultheis.

He is predeceased by his dear wife, Nora, and his sisters Mildred Muller and Edith Schultheis.

He was a car salesman at IJ Demarest Chevrolet, and loved gardening, landscaping, and cooking. He was the glue of the family, pulling everyone together for family gatherings. William also enjoyed making people laugh. After moving to Sunrise Assisted Living, He played the harmonica, told jokes, and even sang with their entertainment staff.

The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Thursday, Jan. 5 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with a service at 12:30 and interment at George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus to follow. Memorial contributions can be made in Williamʼs name to the Multiple Sclerosis Association at mymsaa.org/donate.

Clare SPITSEN

Clare Spitsen, 93, of Park Ridge passed away on Friday, Nov. 25, 2022. She was born in Hollis, N.Y to the late Paul and late Irene (Clifford) Spitsen in 1929.

She graduated from St. Elizabeth University, Morristown, in 1950. Clare worked as an administrator in the records department for Port Authority of New York and New Jersey until her retirement.

A lifelong devout Catholic, Clare was active in Our Lady of

Mercy Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister.

She loved to travel and took many trips and cruises all around the world. She is survived by many cousins on both the Spitsen and Clifford sides of her family.

Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 6 at Our Lady of Mery Roman Catholic Church, Park Ridge. Interment in Calvary Cemetery, Woodside, N.Y. Arrangements by Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., Park Ridge.

Elizabeth KUCHENMEISTER

Elizabeth Elsa Allen Kuchenmeister, 82, passed away on Dec. 31, 2022. She grew up in Dumont, and was a 50-year resident of the Township of Washington.

Betty, as she was known by her family and friends, attended Virginia Intermont College in Bristol, Va.

In 1963, Betty and Clifford were married. They lived in Bad Nauheim, Germany for a year while Clifford completed his tour. When they returned to the United States they started their family.

Betty is survived by Cliff Jr., Brian and his wife, Rose; Edward; and Carolyn and her husband, Jason. Betty was blessed with four grandchildren: Patricia, Christina, Joseph, and Brianna. She is also survived by her sister, Suzanne Desmet. Betty was predeceased by her husband, Cliff, and her parents, Lina and Horace Allen.

Betty was a devoted wife and a loving mother to her family. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood on Wednesday, Jan. 4 from 4 to 8 p.m. The funeral service is at Becker Funeral Home on Thursday, Jan. 5 at 10 a.m. with internment at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus. Becker-funeralhome.com.

Norma DICRISTINA

Norma DiCristina, 94, passed away in Park Ridge on Sunday, Dec. 25, 2022. Norma was born on Dec. 29, 1927 and lived most of her life in Brooklyn, N.Y. She was the beloved wife of the late Paul DiCristina (1986). She will be sadly missed by her loving and devoted daughters, Patricia Whitelaw (Herbie) and Debbie Neumaier (Joe), grandchildren Paul Neumaier (Erin) and Stephanie Neumaier and her fiancé, James Slupatchuk and two great-grandsons, Mason and Oliver Neumaier.

For the past three months Norma resided at the Family of Caring Assisted Living at Park Ridge. We are eternally grateful for the compassionate care she received by the nurses, aides and residents.

Visitation for family and friends on Friday, Dec. 30, 2022 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Robert Spearing Funeral Home Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, rsfhi.com. Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. on

Obituaries:

FROM PAGE 30

Saturday Dec. 31, 2022 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, 668 Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington. Interment in Pinelawn Cemetery, Farmingdale, N.Y.

Carolyn HANDLOSER

Carolyn Handloser, 92, a 63year resident of Hillsdale, passed away unexpectedly at home on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022. She was born on Oct. 2, 1930 in Brooklyn, N.Y. to Donald Winthrop and Doris Ann (Wiltshire) Smith.

She graduated from Dwight Morrow High School in Englewood and attended the University of Vermont and the Katherine Gibbs School, after which she worked as an executive secretary at Kearfott Co.

It was here that she met and married a very special guy from Michigan, Lawrence M. Handloser, in 1952. Shortly thereafter, they were transferred to Pasadena, Calif. for several years, then to Dallas, Texas, adding two young daughters along the way. They returned to New Jersey in 1959, where they found their long-term home in Hillsdale and raised their family.

Carolyn lived a very long and happy life and found something to enjoy in each and every moment until the day she died. She was predeceased by her wonderful husband, Larry, and her much-loved younger brother, Fred Smith.

She is survived by her daughters, Nancy Ross (Bob) and Linda Andryc (Phil); five beloved grandchildren, Jillian Ross Silva (Caio),

Allison Ross (Greg Fortier), Matt Andryc (Katie Whitman), Katie Andryc (Jon Baruc), and Caroline Andryc as well as the most recent apple of her eye, great-granddaughter, Maia Andryc.

She was an active member of the community during her many years in Hillsdale having served as the head of the PTA, head of the Womenʼs Guild, and Sunday school teacher at the Pascack Reformed Church and as an enthusiastic member of the Oradell Book and Needle Club and Woodcliff Lake Seniors.

She and Larry also volunteered for Pascack Meals on Wheels [now Meals on Wheels North Jersey], delivering meals to local seniors for many years.

Carolyn always enjoyed a good game of tennis, golf and bridge, both as a competitor all over Bergen County and socially with a group of very special long-time friends; and was a passionate traveler, having covered a good part of the globe with her husband, Larry, her children and grandchildren, and most often with those very same wonderful friends.

She loved spending time with her family, dancing and listening to all types of music, hiking outdoors, reading books of many genres and meeting new people. She also enjoyed a well-made Manhattan on the rocks, root beer floats, Grand Marnier soufflé at Madeleineʼs Petit Paris, Belgian waffles and dark chocolate in any and every form.

Her determination to be an active participant in her life and to live each day to the fullest even as she advanced into her 90s was an inspiration to her family and friends and she will be greatly missed.

A celebration of Carolynʼs life will be held in Washington, Conn. in early summer

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Carolyn can be made to

Meals on Wheels North Jersey, 100 Madison Ave, Suite 3, Westwood, NJ 07675 (mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org) or Covenant House, 460 W. 41st St., N.Y., N.Y. 10036 (ny.covenanthouse.org).

Nancy R. CALISE

Nancy R. Calise (née Talerico) of Park Ridge passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday, March 13, 2020.

Devoted mother of Deborah Kolacia and her husband, James. Dear sister of Dorothy Esoldi and the late Joan and the late Philip. Cherished grandmother of Jaime Cerritelli and Jaclyn Annunziata, and five great-grandchildren.

Before retiring in 1991 Nancy was a secretary for Lipton Tea Co., Englewood Cliffs. She was a member of the Red Hat Club and the Orangeburg, N.Y. Seniors Club.

Special thanks to the staff of the Atrium of Park Ridge for their com-

passionate and loving care. Visitation 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2020 at the Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, rsfhi.com.

Funeral Mass 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at Our Lady of Mercy R. C. Church, Park Ridge. Entombment at Hackensack Cemetery, Hackensack.

In lieu of flowers please make donations in memory of Nancy to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital, stjude.org.

Remembering warfighter Michael Goble

The 7th Special Forces Group on Dec. 22, 2022 remembered Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Goble, 33, a U.S. special forces soldier, who was killed Dec. 22 2019, during combat operations in Kunduz Province, Afghanistan while serving with 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne).

Goble, born on Jan. 13, 1986, was raised in Westwood. He entered the United States Army on July 7, 2004, as a Special Forces candidate.

After completing basic training, advanced individual training, and the Basic Airborne course in Fort Benning, Ga., he was assigned to the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School at Fort Bragg, N.C. to attend the Special Forces Assesment and Selection and Special Forces Qualification Course and earned the coveted Green Beret in Feb. 2007

After completion of the Special Forces Qualification Course, Goble was assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Air-

borne), where he served as a weapons sergeant.

During his time in 1st Battalion, 7th SFG(A), he w as deployed to Afghanistan from March to October 2007, May 2008 to January 2009, Argentina in 2009, Guatemala in 2010, Colombia in 2011.

Goble served as a sniper instructor from March 2012 to January 2016. He then w as assigned back to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 7th SFG(A) as

their senior intelligence sergeant.

He then deployed to the Republic of Korea from April to May 2018 and then to Colombia from July to September 2018.

His awards and decorations include Bronze Star Medal ( 3OLC), Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with “V,” Army Commendation Medal (I OLC), Army Good Conduct Medal (4 Knots), National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon (3rd award), Nation Defense Service Medal, NATO Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Humanitarian Service Medal, Overseas Ribbon, NATO Non Article 5 (2nd aw ard), Valorous Unit Award, Army Superior Unit Award, Special Forces Tab, Combat Infantry Badge, Basic Airborne, and Military Free Fall Jumpmaster Badges.

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

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P/T POLICE 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

FINANCE SPECIALIST– Borough of Hillsdale, Bergen County. The Borough of Hillsdale is accepting applications for an immediate, full-time Finance Specialist. Experience and proficiency are required in municipal accounting; Edmund’s software; as well as Word, Excel and general municipal-government practices. Must be highly organized, detail oriented 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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