Pascack Press 10.24.22

Aimed high

Lt. Col. Edward M. Ballanco, USAF (ret.), formerly of Montvale, to be inducted into the Aviation Hall of Fame of N.J.

PASCACK VALLEY

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS INFOCUS

Emerson, Park Ridge, Westwood, Woodcliff Lake have contests; find your town candidates here

BYMICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Three Pascack Valley towns Emerson, Park Ridge, and Woodcliff Lake — have contested races between Democratic and Republican candidates for two open council seats in each town; Westwood has a three-way race for two open council seats in the Nov. 8 General Election.

Emerson features the only mayoral challenge among 2022ʼs Pascack Valley towns, with firstterm Republican Mayor Danielle DiPaola challenging Democratic newcomer Jeanine Lamatina , wife of former two-term mayor Louis Lamatina, under whose

BYJOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS T

GO, ROCK AND ROLL’

GO, ROCK AND ROLL’

PH Marching Broncos build ʻMemoriesʼon the road

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

APPLICANT TELLS ZBA STRIPMALL APPROPRIATE

Proposed development at Pascack–Washington intersection ʻsix to seven yearsʼin the making

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The applicant attorney for a proposed 17,000-square foot-plus retail “neighborhood center” near the well-traveled Pascack–Washington Avenue intersection said Oct. 18 that the site was “appropriate” for commercial development and would not have a significant impact on traffic congestion.

A ALLSSO O I INNSSIIDDE E

HE PASCACK HILLS

Marching Broncos gave it their all at the Midland Park Performing Arts Parentsʼ Music in the Park XXV competition on Sunday, Oct. 9, squaring off against programs from around northern New Jersey.

And crushed it.

By the districtʼs account on the Pascack Hills High School website,“The band competed in

group B with other schools in our size and took home first place! The band also was awarded several caption awards for outstanding section performance.” The band earned best music, best color guard, best percussion, and best marching.

This first competition of the year was promptly followed by the Marching Broncosʼappearance at the New Jersey Band Directors Marching Association competition at Verona High

BRIDGING THE GAP

School on Saturday, Oct. 15.

Under director of bands Ryan Dore, the Broncos threw themselves into their show, Memories which features songs “Thnks fr the Mmrs” by Fall Out Boy, “Clarity” by Zedd, and “Confident” by Demi Lovato.

This time the competition sounded a stronger push.

Dore told Pascack Press on Oct 19, “The Verona competi tion was a big shift in the expec-

Applicant 660 Pascack Realty LLC attorney Bruce Whitaker, of McDonnell Whitaker, Ramsey, said the 2.4-acre site comprising lots 611 at 660-682 Pascack Road was appropriate for commercial development. He noted there are “nonresidential uses” on three other intersection corners, including Seasons Catering, a gas station, and a commercial property Seasons Catering owners James and George Kourgelis own the properties being proposed for a commercial development, which has been in the works for years, said the attorney.

• Mayor to ask county for DPW storage

See APPLICANT on page 26

This week we go back 90 years, to Westwood High School’s football team of the 1932 season. Kristin Beuscher calls out those wonderful player nicknames.

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

Park Ridge Girl Scout Troop 7641 held their Bridging from Brownie to Junior Girl Scout ceremony on Sunday, Oct. 9.

The Pascack Hills Marching Broncos gave it their all at the Midland Park Performing Arts Parents’ Music in the Park XXV,coming up with a trove of awards.The band also backed the varsity football game at its Sept.30 awaygame,the band’s first,helping fuel a happy shellacking of Dover.

RYAN

PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Schepisi for Sembler and Cooper at WWRSD BOE

To the editor:

I AM PROUD to endorse Michelle Sembler in her re-election campaign to continue her work on the Westwood Regional Board of Education. We are at a pivotal point in the history of our education system. Michelle is a strong advocate for our children, an advocate for parental involvement in their childrenʼs education and she is what is

needed on the local school board level. Michelle is a dedicated mother and business woman with a vision for the best education product available for our children. Sheʼs advocated for fiscal responsibility, safe schools, social and emotional well-being and family values. Michelle is the current board Vice President and has demonstrated proven effective leadership, collaboration with the community and the abil ity to produce positive results. Please support Michelle Sembler with your vote to keep her seated on the Westwood Regional School District Board of Education.

I am endorsing Laura Cooperʼs candidacy for the Board of Education because I am confident in the values she represents, her

transparency as a leader, her effectiveness as a person of action and her dedication to our children and our community. I believe her priorities signify what is important to Westwood families and our youth — superior academics along with a focus on behavior and socialization, impeccable fiscal responsibility as well as positive collaboration with teachers, administration and parents to advocate for what is needed in the district. Laura also has extensive expertise that is highly applicable to the Board of Education. Laura has an established global career track, excellent communication and collaboration skills and possesses a warm and approachable personality. I am confident that as a member of the Board, Laura will be steady in her measured and thoughtful approach to our childrenʼs educational needs.

State Sen. Holly Schepisi 39th Legislative District

Press reps for aircraft noise relief

To the editor:

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.

OURELECTEDOFFICIALS are our voice. When we feel powerless to address an issue or initiate positive change we reach out to them for assistance and guidance. Like many Pascack Valley residents I have been frustrated with the constant air traffic in our area. Private planes all hours of the day and night traveling low and loudly overhead destined for Teterboro or Westchester County Airport. Planes that most of us who live in the area are not privileged enough to fly on. We do not live near either of these airports yet we are subjected to this con stant disturbance that damages our quality of life.

I am told there is a solution; the Route 17 corridor. I have contacted Congressman [Josh] Gottheimer twice by email. Called his office expressing my concerns and asked specifically “What can we do as residents?” “How can we/he get the FAA to enforce the Route 17 corridor?” And asked his staff how we can request a meeting with the congressman to discuss. Followed his staffʼs direction and submitted a meeting request online. Other than a boilerplate email response from the congressman that did not answer the questions asked, I have heard nothing. I realize he is busy, but so am I. He is our voice. Only he can help those he has sworn to serve solve this issue. I urge all reading this letter to reach out to him in hope that he listens and lets us know what he is doing to get the FAA to enforce the route 17 corridor, and how we, his constituents, can help. Response needed.

Audrey Herget Park Ridge

Democrat seeks either of two seats in play in Westwood

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WESTWOOD

The boroughʼs 8,422 voters face a contested local council race, at least partly, as incumbent Republicans Robert Bicocchi and Beth Dell face a challenge from Democrat Lesley Whyard for the two open council seats.

Dell provided details on her career and public service, noting at the outset sheʼs lived in Westwood since 1999, engaging with local needs as a youth.

ing as unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic protocols were instituted,” she wrote.

Dell serves as board member of a not-for-profit that supervises the operations of the Bergen County Homeless Shelter in Hackensack, and an active member of St. Martinʼs church. She is married and has two sons, ages 21 and 25.

overhaul as many long-term borough employees retired,” she said.

And she said, “I have worked with my Finance Committee to deliver value driven budgets over multiple cycles.”

Republican Robert Bicocchi told Pascack Press he and his wife have been Westwood residents since 1996.

most current apparatus (including early warning flood sensors in the Pascack Brook) and implementing an aggressive road paving program using innovative methods, Bicocchi said.

As the governing bodyʼs technology liaison, he said, he “reduced the boroughʼs paper use and enhanced its cybersecurity.”

interest in preserving and expanding the feeling of community among Westwoodʼs residents.

Democratic challenger Democrat Lesley Whyard, the lone challenger, said she was running because she has a vested

“Holding public office is an act of service to the people; democracy matters. Not only listening to, but hearing what the people of this

DELL (R)

“As a Park Ridge teenager I volunteered at Pascack Valley Hospital and developed a very special appreciation for Westwood. My civic engagement has only grown over the years,” Dell said.

“When my children entered elementary school, I served as chairperson for many committees and fundraising events. I was PTO President for three years and am still on the board of the Westwood-Washington Township Education Foundation. During my active tenure weʼd raised $300,000 for the Westwood Regional School District,” she said.

In her career, Dell manages an 80-unit senior citizen complex, Glen Courts, in Glen Rock, where she oversees maintenance, staff and vendors. “I coordinate social events and ensure the safety and well-being of the tenants within a six-figure budget. In March of 2020, this became more challeng-

After being appointed to the Westwood Council in September 2015, Dell has been reelected twice in 2016 and in 2019. She also serves as liaison to the Health and Recreation Department, the Celebrate Westwood Committee, the Library Board of Trustees and the Zoning and Planning boards.

“For the past two years, my bipartisan peers have unanimously chosen me for Council President. I currently serve as chair to the Finance, Personnel and Shared Services committees, and as liaison to the Chamber of Commerce and Westwood Regional District. My long and varied experience makes me very well qualified to continue in this leadership role,” she told Pascack Press

She said she seeks reelection based upon her “many accomplishments” achieved by herself and colleagues.

“Most recently, my engagement with the NJ Film Institute, resulted in multiple films being shot in Westwood. Working with Emerson Mayor Danielle DiPaola to share costs while expanding the senior shuttle service; and shepherding a very successful staffing

“I started volunteering in Westwood the day I moved in. I walked to borough hall, met then Mayor Skip Kelly and was appointed to his Planning Board. Volunteering is important at any level. You become involved in shaping your childrenʼs future. Iʼve been a Westwood Baseball coach and a trustee. I was very engaged in constructing the Meadow Brook Park field house. And Iʼve coached Westwood Flag Football as well,” Bicocchi wrote.

Bicocchi was first elected to Westwood Council in 2013, reelected, in 2016 and then again, in 2019. Heʼs been council liaison to the police, fire, ambulance, health and recreation departments, the Historic Preservation Commission, Library Board of Trustees, Zoning Board of Adjustment and the Planning Board. he also has served as council president.”

“During my council tenure I worked towards reducing net debt by $2-plus million, developing responsible municipal budgets, providing unmatched recreation programs and infrastructure (including a pump track at Westvale Park), ensuring our first responders are equipped with the

WHYARD (D)

BICOCCHI (R)

CONTINUED

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Home For the Holidays gearing up

WESTWOOD

“The holidays will soon be upon us, and once again we look forward to your participation in the best parade of the year!”

Thatʼs according to the Home For the Holidays Committee, which notes last yearʼs parade made a triumphant return, after missing 2020, with a spectacular crowd thanks to a mild December evening. “We appreciate the groups and organizations that made it happen.”

This yearʼs theme is 100 years of Musical History,in recognition of the many community and marching bands which have added seasonal music, color and joy to the parade, as well as for the spectators. Itʼs also the 100th anniversary of the Westwood Bandstandin Veterans Park — the committee encouragesfloats and groups to “share the richness public music brings toour community.”

Parade participants must provide a certificate of insurance, general liability for any organization marching, as well as automobile liability for any float or vehicle. Certificates are due Nov. 21. Once the committee has your paperwork itʼll issue a parade pass and lineup number on Mondayevening, Nov. 28. As is always the case, the parade is rain, snow, orshine. There is no rain date. Please prepare accordingly

Says the committee, “Thank you for making this the great traditional start to the holiday season in the Pascack Valley. We lookforward to seeing you on Saturday, Dec. 3 on Roosevelt and Lexingtonavenues. The parade begins at 6 p.m.”

For more information, visit celebratewestwood.org/home-for-the-holidays.

They were ready for some football!

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

WITH THIS PHOTOGRAPH we go back 90 years to Westwood High Schoolʼs football team of the 1932 season. What makes this one extra special is that the individual players signed it —and we are loving those nicknames, like Larry “Stud” Greenip, second from left in the top row, and Quested “Beef” Meis ten, team captain, at bottom center.

The boys had pretty good handwriting back in that era when penmanship was rigorously taught as part of the school curricu lum.

Meisten and Greenip were among seven 1931 lettermen who returned for the 1932 season. Others included Fred Sturm, Frank Olsen, Alfred Lillienfeld, Stephen Straub, and Ralph “Suede” Anderson. The boys were coached by Charles Lucid, pictured at far right in the top row. Lucid was in his second year as athletic director of the high school. He lived in Westwood with his wife

and two sons. The family had just taken a big trip over the summer, motoring across America to see the 1932 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles.

When this photo was taken, Westwood High School was located at the corner of Third Avenue and Mill Street where there are now townhouses. The sports fields were located a little ways south on Third Avenue, where the Westwood Regional Middle School (formerly Ketler Elementary, built in 1952) stands now.

While these days the Westwood Regional School District is limited to kids from Westwood and the Township of Washington, the structure was different in the 1930s. Back then, the only high schools in the Pascack Valley were Westwood and Park Ridge, so Westwood High would have accepted students from all surrounding towns.

The 1932 season started out rough, but Lucidʼs crew got it together halfway through. In the first three games, they lost to Fort Lee, 12-0, Pearl River, 7-0, and then

Teaneck, 14-0. Perhaps something clicked at that point, because they went on to defeat P ark Ridge, 19-0, Butler, 20-0, Spring Valley, 33-0, and Hasbrouck Heights, 10-0. It was a season of shutouts, but in the end Westwood had found itself on the right side of them. In the Hasbrouck Heights game, Westwoodʼs Frankie Olson scored the first field goal of the Bergen County season.

One of the most interesting elements of old sports photos is always the uniforms. Note the minimal padding, the lack of player numbers on the shirts, as well as how plain the uniforms are compared to those you see today

Also, back in 1932 the team would still have been wearing leather helmets, if they wore them at all. Even in professional foot ball helmets were considered optional throughout the 1930s. Plastic helmets were not invented until 1939.

Kristin Beuscher, a former editor of Pascack Press, is president of Pascack Historical Society in Park Ridge and edits its quarterly membersʼnewsletter, Relics.

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material developed independently by Pascack Press. It may not be reproduced, in whole or in part.

Pascack Press is published in Westwood and is distributed to every household in our circulation area.

PublisherJohn

Westwood signs off on the 1932 gridiron.

Public servants vie for Woodcliff Lake council seats

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFFLAKE

The boroughʼs 4,985 voters will face a contested election for two council seats, left vacant by the departures of one-term incumbent Republican Stephen Falanga and longtime Democratic incumbent Angela Hayes.

Republican council candidates are Joshua Stern and Brian DiStefano Opposing them are Democrats Benjamin Pollack and Nicole Marsh

Marsh told us why she is running for office: “Woodcliff Lake has been a wonderful place for my husband and I to raise our three daughters since we moved here eight years ago. Like many families in town we chose to live here because of the boroughʼs focus on education, safety, and recreation.”

She said, “Giving back to my community in meaningful ways has always been important to me and I have spent years volunteering my time to support our parents, teachers, children and other residents.”

She has served as a board member of the Parent-Faculty Association for the last five years as hospitality chair and parent liaison.

Moreover, she has served as parent coordinator for the special

education parent advisory committee, a school trustee, and vice president of the Temple Emanuel Executive Board.

She said she was running for council “because I believe local government has the power to make a real difference and improve the quality of life in the place we all call home.”

Marsh said, “My priority is to work towards unifying our residents around a collective vision for this moment and the future. I am committed to achieving this goal through transparent, respectful and constructive dialogue. Through my volunteer work and background as an attorney I have proven to be a highly collaborative, resourceful problem solver capable of finding common ground that taps into the passion and expertise of my fellow residents.”

She said, “The vast majority of our residents have shared interests in issues including sensible and sustainable economic development, working with our first responders to maximize public safety, and increasing the availability of community programming.”

She said, “I believe we can preserve the charm and character of our town while adding amenities like shops and restaurants that will ensure vacant buildings are revitalized to improve our quality of life. Itʼs imperative that we work with our police and provide them with modern communications equipment needed to ensure that people in our town feel as safe as they once did.”

She added, “We need to better utilize our current resources to offer more recreational programs and activities for residents of all ages. Our town resources and programs must be inclusive and accessible to all.”

Voters can visit Pollack & Marsh for Woodcliff Lake on Facebook, or vote411.org, for more information.

Pollack said his wife and him chose the borough to raise children “partly because our families grew up here, but more importantly for the quintessential smalltown charm and strong sense of community that is characteristic of

our borough. I am running for council to make sure my neighbors, family, and residents continue to have a town they are proud to call home — one that is a safe place to live, grow, and play.”

He said, “My priorities are on public safety, enhanced resources for residents of all ages, and quality-of-life improvements. To achieve these goals, while also managing tax rates, I will start by better leveraging town and county resources.”

He said as an example, moving the 9-1-1 dispatch center for Woodcliff Lake to the countywide facility “will yield a lower annual cost and improve emergency response coordination.”

He noted, “An increase in public/private partnerships and grants will offset much-needed infrastructure improvements and ensure sensible development that complements our townʼs aesthetic and residentsʼvision. Championing an increase in the number of streetlights, properly abating ʻzombieʼproperties, and improv-

ing resident communication are three of the quality-of-life issues that need immediate attention.”

Pollack said he brings 15plus years of business and public sector work experience that “gives me the ability to balance the public and private needs/perspectives and drive positive outcomes for our borough.”

He said, “I am running because I care – about this town, its residents, and its future. This election is consequential. The decisions made now will not just impact us in the short-term but will secure the legacy and identity of Woodcliff Lake for generations to come.”

Republicans Stern, DiStefano offer views

Republican council candidate Joshua Stern and his wife moved to Woodcliff Lake in 2018, which was his wifeʼs hometown since 1991. He said they could think of no better place to raise a family. “With small town charm and great schools, Woodcliff Lake was a natural pick.”

As a commercial litigator for 20 years, Stern said he has extensive experience not only trying cases, but also in avoiding lawsuits and in risk management.

“One of the reasons that I

POLLACK (D) MARSH (D) STERN (R) DISTEFANO (R)

CONTINUED

BOE candidate forum set for Oct.

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley (LWV) with the assistance of Westwood Regional High School PSO, will hold a public forum for this yearʼs school board candidates.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization, says in its invitation to those running that it believes citizens should hear their candidates speak on the issues pertaining to the elected office they are seeking, “and a candidate forum is a great opportunity for you to get your message out to the voters.” The League does not support or oppose any candidates or any parties.

The forum will be held at Westwood Regional High School on Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. Participants will be the candidates, a League trained moderator from outside our community, and Westwood

Regional High School PSO.

The public may attend in person or view the proceedings live, and afterward on YouTube. This is note a debate and there will be no public interaction during the interview.

In the Township of Washington incumbent Joseph J. McCallister faces a challenge by Douglas Cusato. In Westwood, three candidates are competing for two seats:incumbent Michelle Sembler and challengers Laura Cooper and Jason R. Garcia.

Each candidate will have the opportunity for a 90 second opening statement. The moderator will then ask the candidates to answer

previously provided questions. Each candidate will have 1 minute to answer each question. After the Q&A session, each candidate may deliver a 2 minute closing statement. Organizers are aiming to keep the proceedings to one hour.

LVW says, “To provide a truly impartial Q&A, the questions polled will be selected by the League of Women Voters. (Not all questions polled will be used during the interview, however, all questions that will be asked during the Q&A will be shared in advance with the candidates.) Our moderator may ask you to elaborate on any questions asked should there be a need for further clarification.”

A table outside the auditorium will be available for campaign literature.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8.

WCL: Four public servants vie for council seats

FROM PAGE 5

decided to run is because I believe that my legal and litigation experience can make a big difference. Over the last five years, Woodcliff Lake has been sued numerous times and spent millions of dollars on wasteful legal fees and settlements. This is millions of dollars that the Borough could have used to fix the current state of our ballfields, resurface the tennis courts, or fix roads. Our council needs to do a better job in managing risk,” said Stern.

He said what his priorities would be if elected: improved recreational offerings; better town pool oversight and more events; to fight against high-density housing; and support police with additional resources.

He said this includes “improved recreational offerings, including resurfacing of tennis

MONTVALE

courts and better fields for our kids to play baseball and softball. There is simply no excuse for the poor state of our fields and offerings, particularly when compared to neighboring towns.”

“Over the last several years, we have seen a severe decline in how the pool and all of parks & rec is run, and membership and attendance has been way down. We canʼt just rely on our parks and rec director. The council needs to be involved in making sure things run better,” said Stern.

Moreover, Stern said he would “fight against high-density housing.”

However, after a nearly fiveyear battle in what turned out to be a losing fight for Park Ridge, the borough spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees to oppose high-density housing sought as a result of its affordable housing settlement.

Finally, after years of legal

and financial losses, the borough in late 2020 agreed to permit a 448-apartment complex, with dozens of affordable units on a 30acre former Sony site.

Stern said, “High-density housing is a problem for the entire Pascack Valley. In Montvale alone, between 2020 and 2025, 1,000 new housing units (a onethird increase) were or will be constructed.”

He said, “In 2025, our state mandated affordable housing settlement expires. This means that Woodcliff Lake will be open to builderʼs remedy lawsuits who will want to construct large high density housing in our town. We need elected officials with the right type of experience to help negotiate favorable results.”

He noted that he would “support our police by providing addi tional resources to fight the increase in crime.” He did not provide specifics.

Champs earn a borough’s praise

His running mate, Brian DiStefano, voiced support for similar goals, although he did not mention high-density housing in his platform.

DiStefano said he is “passionate about his family and his community and is a committee member for the American Cancer Societyʼs annual Relay for Life event and enjoys including his 11-yearold daughter in all volunteering events and opportunities.”

DiStefano is a director at Osmose Utility Services, a large utility services company. He recently moved to Osmose after a 15-year career at Con Edison, where he managed large operational groups responsible for safe and reliable delivery of electricity in all of Manhattan and Staten Island.

He also has extensive experience managing multimillion-dollar capital projects throughout New York City, said a statement he provided.

DiStefano said he is running for council for two reasons:

“The town council is lacking in areas of my expertise. What I am able to bring to the council in areas of engineering and construction is unique to our town and is a

valuable resource to Woodcliff Lake as we continue to manage municipal projects. I am also running because I love our community. I believe our town, and its residents, deserve the strongest representation and leadership possible.”

Ballot question on open space

In addition to council, Woodcliff Lake voters will be asked to approve continuation of its Open Space Fund, with an added public use as noted on the ballot question under Section D: “Open Space Trust Fund monies may also be used to pay debt service on indebtedness issued or incurred by the Borough for the purposes set forth in Section B and C above.”

The dedicated local Open Space fund charges taxpayers one cent for every $100 of assessed property valuation. Officials said, if approved, this will allow them to use local Open Space funds to pay down interest on bonding required to complete the Galaxy Gardens park.

Registered voters break down as 1,675 Democrats, 1,319 Republicans, and 1,991 unaffiliated voters.

2022 1st and 2nd grade Kinderkamack Softball League Summer Travel champions:Team members are Alana Aiello, Carabella Amodeo, Jordan Anders, Claire Branchini,Charlotte Brinkman,Sarina Brothers,Caroline Fish,Ella Gilbart,Nadia Ignatiou,Valentina Rodriguez,Julia Rzeszutek,Sofia Shea,and Cayla Slackman.

Congratulations to the 2022 1st and 2nd grade Kinderkamack Softball League Summer Travel champions. The team was honored at the Oct. 11 Montvale Bor ough Council.

Prior to the meeting, the girls were treated to a tour of the police station by police officer Russell DiLauri.

At the meeting, the girls led the pledge of allegiance to open

the proceedings, and received certificates of achievement from Mayor Michael Ghassali. It was a special end to an amazing season for a great team.

— Via Rob Brinkman

S C A C K V A L L E Y P R E S S

Four share visions in bid for two Park Ridge council seats

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PARKRIDGE

The boroughʼs 7,279 voters have a contested race for two council seats as incumbent Democrats Robert Metzdorf and Kelly Epstein are challenged by Republicans Bruce Goldsmith and Gregory Hoffman

The incumbents on their records Incumbent Democrat and sixyear councilman Robert Metzdorf served on the Planning Board for 10-plus years.

26-plus years. When my twin sons were young, I coached baseball, basketball and football for the PRAA.”

He said, “My highest priority is fiscal responsibility. As chairman of the Finance Committee, it is my responsibility to respect the taxpayers, promote public safety and continue to provide the exceptional public services our town expects.”

“As the liaison to the Utility Board, it is my pledge to the community that all residents will continue to receive clean water and cost effective, dependable electric services. Seeking outside grants to pay for increased safety and reliability is a priority to me. With the Covid pandemic and inflation, it has been challenging to keep our tax rates stable and maintain superior services.”

police officers without increasing the police budget. While the budget is a challenge, I will continue to be creative in saving the taxpayers money.”

He said his greatest goal is to obtain state and federal grants to dredge Mill Pond. “We have engineering plans to dredge and maintain the pond so that it may be enjoyed by our residents for recreational purposes and more importantly; provide flood relief for our town and those towns that are downstream.”

Metzdorf said, “Continuous examination of all expenditures is the key. Looking for ways to do something in a less expensive and more efficient way is always part of our budgeting process.”

On the recreation side, he said the borough has enjoyed many successes: “A new basketball court and a new soccer softball field behind Borough Hall with much of it paid for with outside grants.”

the size of our police force, all while maintaining a reasonable tax rate.”

“In creating our budget, it is my goal to keep costs down while continuing to provide our great services to our residents. My 15 years of negotiations experience with union contracts has been instrumental in securing fair contracts for our public unions in the Borough, saving thousands of dollars for our residents. My connection to the schools provides an open dialog between the Borough and the Board of Education,” she wrote.

Epstein noted Park Ridge maintains its own water and electric companies. “This makes having high quality drinking water and cost-effective electricity a top priority. Our utilities cost less than other companies in the area. We are currently awaiting the approval of $16 million in federal funding to improve our water quality.”

replaced by Greg Hoffman.)

“Dear friends and neighbors, We are both decades-long residents of Park Ridge. Bruce is a U.S. Navy and Army veteran, local business owner [Goldsmith

METZDORF (D) EPSTEIN(D)

Metzdorf said, “For the past 34 years, I have been an attorneyat-law, currently in my own law practice. My family and I have resided in Park Ridge for the past

Metzdorf said, “We have been successful in this endeavor. This year, the average yearly home taxes for municipal services were increased by $133. At the same time, we were able to hire two new

He said he would like to see a pickleball court and a dog park added to outdoor assets. “We will continue to examine and consider all new recreational ideas and programs. I pledge to continue to find ways to save money, provide for our townʼs safety along with exceptional services our residents deserve.”

Incumbent Democrat Kelly Epstein said, “I am seeking a third term as council member in Park Ridge. I have lived in Park Ridge for the past 20 years and truly love this town. I am a homeowner, raising my family here with my husband, Ron, and my two children, ages 10 and 5, who attend the pub lic schools.”

Epstein teaches social studies and psychology at Park Ridge High School and sheʼs involved in town committees such as Recreation, Diversity and Inclusion, and the Board of Health. Sheʼs a member of the Pascack Historical Society and the League of Women Voters. She serves on the personnel and negotiations committees for the borough.

She said over the past six years she had been able to “curb overdevelopment, improve our recreational facilities, and increase

“Public safety is another priority and having a strong, community connected, and fully staffed police force is paramount to this effort, which is why I supported hiring additional officers for our town.”

She said that if sheʼs reelected she wants to “continue to work closely with our police, fire, and OEM to make Park Ridge one of the safest towns to live in.”

She explained, “I want to see Mill Pond dredged, so it can serve as a recreational and educational facility ”

And she said “I want to continue to use Open Space funds to purchase undeveloped properties, not only to curb overdevelopment, but to use for recreation.”

Ultimately, she said, “I want Park Ridge to continue to be a town where families come to raise their children feeling safe, connected, and included.”

Challengers make their case

The two Republican chal lengers, Bruce Goldsmith and Gre gory Hoffman. replied via a campaign flier, forwarded by campaign treasurer William R. Fenwick. (Fenwick was on the primary ballot in June but withdrew and was

GOLDSMITH (R) HOFFMAN (R)

Studios Inc.] and prior director of PKRG-TV. Greg is an attorney and former investigator for the public defenderʼs office. We are running for Borough Council to ensure that our local government works for everyone.”

They continued, “We oppose municipal tax breaks for developers, unlike our Democratic Party opponents who allowed this while they raised your taxes. Our municipal taxes must be used to improve the lives of residents, not the profits of developers. We support giving power over the school board back to Park Ridgeʼs parents by reinstituting annual school budget referendums.”

They said, “We oppose the relentless municipal property tax increases that our opponents have voted for year after year. We promise to bring fiscal responsibility to the boroughʼs budget by stabilizing taxes and spending.”

Goldsmith and Hoffman added, “We will work to increase the councilʼs transparency. We will ensure that all videos of coun cil meetings are made available on the borough website.”

They said they would “work to increase direct communication between the borough and our residents. Local government is most effective when it stays accountable to residents; transparency will ensure this accountability.”

Registered voters break down as 2,151 Democrats, 2,205 Republicans, and 2,923 unaffiliated voters, said the county clerkʼs office. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Mayor to ask county for DPW storage help

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Township of Washington Mayor Peter Calamari said Oct. 17 that he would send a formal, written request to Bergen County Executive James Tedesco III seeking county accommodations for township public works equipment now stored at the former Washington Township Recreation and Swim Club facility on Ridgewood Boulevard North.

A resident told the council at its Oct. 17 meeting that county officials told him that no formal request for county storage space was received by the county executive.

The township purchased the 6.1-acre former club property in late April in a sheriffʼs sale for

approximately $800,000. Calamari recently said that extra and seasonal DPW vehicles and equipment would be stored there “indefinitely” until another storage site was found.

Anthony Conti, a club neighbor and frequent critic of storing DPW vehicles at the property, told the council that although Council President Desserie Morgan contacted Tedesco and he visited the countyʼs storage site, an aide to Tedesco said that the county had not received a “formal request” from the mayor or council to store DPW vehicles and equipment temporarily at a county facility.

Conti suggested that there may be temporary parking space available near New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, according to a Tedesco aide, and that the

Welcome aboard!

county just needs a written request to take action.

He said the aide said they would be happy to help the township and it did not mean that they needed to do the same for other county towns.

“We the townspeople are being told untruths: they were never asked, they were never told that we would do it temporary, nobody spoke to Mr. Tedescoʼs office, or the associate … than Ms. Morgan,” he said, noting Morganʼs conversation found out that they would offer temporary stor-

age for county vehicles.

Conti asked if local officials would formally request assistance from Tedesco, who is a Democrat.

Calamari is a Republican, as are council members.

Moreover, Tedesco is running for reelection on Nov. 8 vs. twoterm Bergen County Commissioner Republican Todd Caliguire. Tedesco has served two consecutive terms as county executive since 2014.

Calamari said he and town business administrator Mark DiCarlo would write to Tedesco to

officially request county assistance with temporary parking of DPW vehicles now being stored at the swim club. “Iʼm not going to stand on formality. If you found out they need a request, Iʼll take help from anyplace,” he told Conti.

Calamari said he “took exception” with Contiʼs characterization of mayor and council statements about county storage assistance as “untruths.”

However, Feeney said that

CONGRATULATIONSTOTHEMEMBERS , recently inducted, of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood. The club began as the Dorcas Sewing Society in 1908, became part of the New Jersey State Federation of Womenʼs Clubs in 1919, and rechristened as The Womanʼs Club of Westwood in 1920. For more than 100 years, members have joined together to actively support area charities. For more information about the club and its activities, call 201 (916) 1580.

CONTINUED

Left to right: Lynda Bager, 1st vice president, conducts Woman’s Club of Westwood’s recent induction ceremony,welcoming Michele Fedorchak,Angela Kangley Joanne Toole, Kathy Kherlopian, and Pat Gerrity. WESTWOOD

Madeleine Ciocco photo

Get your shopping on! Brookside Bazaar

The Brookside Bazaar will be held Saturday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. indoors at the Westwood Community Center.

More than 30 local businesses, artists, crafters, creatives, m om and daughter duos, and entrepreneurs of all ages have

EMERSON

been selected to showcase their work in the family-friendly fair.

Perfect for early holiday shopping, unique items including handcrafted childrenʼs toys, journals, hand-poured candles, vintage treasures, children and baby apparel, personalized gifts, jewel-

r y and accessories, artisanal soaps, body scrubs and self-care items, small-batch dog treats, e mbroidery and crochet work, and much more will be available to shop.

BOE candidate forum Oct. 26

In advance of the Board of Education election on Nov. 8, all school and community members are invited to attend a candidate forum moderated by the League of Women Voters on Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. at Emerson Junior-Senior High School.

This event will also be livestreamed with the link available on the district website: emerson schools.org

A flyer we received from the district Oct. 19 said two candidates were confirmed as attending: Will Graulich and Joseph Polvere.

In his outreach to Pascack Press, Superintendent of Schools Brian P. Gatens Emerson said the district is happy to join with neighboring and nearby districts such as Westwood, Cresskill, Tenafly, and Glen Rock in offering a candidate forum to the community.

He said the district also is happy “to help support such a positive event like a candidate

forum by helping with scheduling and providing the venue and the live-streaming. The rest of the program — format, moderator, and the overall program — is in the capable hands of the League of Women Voters.”

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, political civic organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

The League does not support or oppose any political candidate or party. With 100 years of experience, the League is one of Americaʼs oldest and most trusted civic nonprofit organizations.

To ensure that all forums are

The free-to-enter event will host activities for little shoppers, from a braid bar by Polished Pub and temporary tattoos by Lighthouse Tattoo Parlor, to craft bear building by Bear Magic and a slime table with Morgan & Olivia's Unique Boutique Slime Shop.

equitable, balanced, and informative, a League-sponsored forum includes a structured, timed format, timekeepers, and the oversight and direction of an impartial moderator, who is not a resident, i.e., cannot vote in the election.

Gatens said the school district is “grateful for the initial help of the Emerson Elementary PTA in attempting to schedule the event. Alongside the two dates that were initially floated by the PTA, the district also offered eight dates as well in the hopes that all four can didates could participate.”

He said, “Please note that the districtʼs role in the evening only consists of room setup and technical assistance. The League of Women Voters moderator is the only person who manages the questions for the participants. The format for the candidate forum is determined solely between the attending candidates and the LWV. The district has no role in the format.”

There will be several exciting tricky tray items and limitededition event tote bags will be provided to the first 300 attendees — one per family — while supplies last.

The Brookside Bazaar will provide a sneak peek to Frenchinspired Le Carré Café & Patisserie, expected to open in Hillsdale before this holiday season. Le Carré will have cider, coffee and sweet treats including seasonal macarons, apple turnovers and croissants for purchase, with a percentage of each sale benefitting Brookside Elementary School.

Save the date and plan to join the community and shop small on Nov. 5 for this fun event. Follow @BrooksideBazaar on Facebook and Instagram for more information and a behind-the-scenes look at the Bazaarʼs talented vendors and their wares.

The Brookside Bazaar is hosted by Westwoodʼs Brookside

Elementary School PTO (Parent Teacher Organization), and sponsored by local businesses C hased Treasures, Conradʼs Confectionery, Fawn & Sage, Flawless Finish, Hoop Dreamz, Lighthouse Tattoo Parlor, Patriot Home Inspection Services, and Polished Pub.

The full list of confirmed vendors includes: A Journal For Your Thoughts, Angelique Soap Co., Bear Magic, Ceramar, Chased Treasures, Conradʼs Confectionery, Designs by Lori, Emma Teng Indoor Plants, Fawn & Sage, Hadley's Woofie Cookies, Jill Chisesi Pettit Art, Just J ewelry by Katie, Kathleen's Loops, Le Carré Café & Patisserie, Lady Diss Designs, Lighthouse Tattoo Parlor, Mina's and E Magical Boutique, Morgan & Olivia's Unique Boutique Slime Shop, Nicole & Talia Rutigliano, Nicolette Designs, Once Upon A Board, Polished Pub, Saltso, Suds by Nic, that embroidery co., The Feisty Pup, Totally Tiff Creations, Vyoma Essentials, Westwood Candy Co., Yellow Door Art Studio, and Zoo Modern.

Although this yearʼs Brookside Bazaar is at capacity for participating vendors, if you are a vendor interested in being on the wait list or in upcoming events, write BrooksideBazaar@gmail.com

S C A C K V A L L E Y P R E S S

PASCACK VALLEY

Setting the standard in dental therapy

Dental implants are not all the same and have varying success rates. The success is dependent on the product and the practitioner.

nity about how dental implant treatments have changed over the past 50 years causing a decline in success.

increased.

rate for 20-plus years.

PRIYU GUPTA, DDS, WESTWOOD PERIODONTICS

As a periodontist, which is the ONLY specialty recognized by the American Dental Association as a “dental implant specialist,” I feel it is important to inform the commu-

Dental implants have been well researched and placed in patients by periodontist and oral surgeons since the 1970s. The published scientific literature in the ʼ70s and ʼ80s estimated 9799% success rates when controlled for certain systemic diseases & smoking. More recently, the success rates have gone down while research and knowledge has

In 2007, I graduated from a full-time three-year dental implant specialty training program from Rutgers Dental School called Periodontics. This was in addition to general dental school. At the time, only a handful of companies were fabricating dental implants. These companies were partnered with universities, periodontists and oral surgeons for decades to establish research to prove that their products met or exceeded the standard of care which was 97-99% success

Periodontists followed up on the implants for decades to see how the implants lasted in patientsʼmouths: to see if gum disease developed or affected them, if loss of an adjacent tooth affected them, if the implant suffered consequences from smoking or if added to a denture. This is all the knowledge which is taught at a university level and takes years to learn. If implants are meant to last forever, it must be handled in such a manner and treatment planned accordingly anticipating changes to a patientʼs dentition and aging.

Today many more companies are fabricating these implants and come from overseas with little to no research proving their product has the same level success. This is completely legal through the FDA 501(k) approval process which allows clearance to sell the product. But this should not preclude the company to perform some level of research to protect the public. These “knock-off” implants are much cheaper and have not taken initiative to prove their success.

What is also happening is that these implant companies and

private companies are offering short term “training programs” to general dentists in attempts to sell more product so generalists can do these surgical services at their.

In my opinion, as dental implants are meant to be a perm anent tooth replacement option, it is important to go to a trained specialist, who is a periodontist, who has the science a nd university-based training and the opportunity to practice these procedures hundreds of times on patients before a private practice setting.

I am a solo, female, dental implant specialist, surgeon & periodontist. I am a lead to a team of four hygienists, each with over 25 years of experience. I place hundreds of dental implants a year and follow them in my highly trained hygiene practice. I partner with many general dentists throughout Bergen County to design, perform and maintain complex dental implant restorations.

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

Borough aims for

Itʼs true:

•Hillsdale has trees that date back 150-plus years to Civil War days;

•In addition to hosting a wide range of native and introduced vegetation, Hillsdale residents co-habit with wildlife such as toads, mink and bald eagles; and

•Hillsdale has no publicly accessible electric vehicle charge stations, and that all municipal buildings and vehicles currently rely solely on traditional fuel sources.

These are some of the many facts presented in “An Environmental Resource Inventory of the Borough of Hillsdale, New Jersey” (ERI), prepared by the Hillsdale Environmental Commission (EC), which studies and makes recommendations to the governing body on open space preservation, natural resource management and historic preservation, as well as planting recommendations when a subdivision occurs in town.

HILLSDALE

to put environmental resource report to work

square miles of land than any of us realize.”

Rubel, an environmental protection and occupational safety professional with more than five decades of experience, recommends the 231-page report as “an important tool for governing bodies, environmental commissions, open space committees, planning boards and zoning boards of adjustment, the ERI contains t ables, maps and other visual information about the Boroughʼs natural resource characteristics and environmentally significant features.”

He says itʼs meant to provide baseline documentation for measuring and evaluating resource protection issues, it is an objective index and description of features and their functions.

the ECʼs chairwoman, “The ERI has been a priority for decades and its importance as a resource and reference tool canʼt be overstated as we move forward in preserving and developing our community.”

She said, “Referencing the ERI in decision-making will ensure that development will also protect the public health, safety and future ongoing development of our community and its inhabitants.”

She said the ERI has been adopted by the EC and is expected to be adopted as an appendix to the master plan by Hillsdaleʼs planning board before yearʼs end.

He said he ERI can also serve as a valuable resource tool for local groups such as Girl and Boy Scouts, garden clubs, students and teachers, and other community members working on special-interest environmental projects and initiatives.

Get involved!

As a standard practice, said Rubel, the EC intends to conduct periodic reviews of the ERI to make any appropriate updates.

Rubel is in the process of tracking updates and is asking fellow Hillsdale residents for their help.

The reportʼs author, EC member Fred N. Rubel, M.S., QEP, tells Pascack Press, “As we go about our busy lives, you may be fascinated to learn that there is way more here in Hillsdaleʼs 2.98

The report can be accessed and downloaded for free (there are two parts) from the Environmental Commissionʼs website: hillsdaleec.org Click on the Reports tab.

According to Meredith Kates,

Borough seeks Access for All volunteers

Mayor John Ruocco is looking to fill several seats on the Hillsdale Access for All Committee by January 2023.

The committee, composed of volunteers and one council member, advises the governing body on strategies to improve access in our community for residents with disabilities.

It plans for needed supports and accommodations so that all residents may participate together in everyday activities.

The committee also advocates for individuals to gain better access to community services. It identifies existing programs and opportunities, and develops and coordinates educational and social activities within Hillsdale. It works in partnership with the county, other municipalities, and civic organizations.

The committee strives to have its membership represent a cross-section of the community,

including individuals with disabilities and the Hillsdale business community Members must reside or work in the Borough of Hillsdale and be at least of high school age.

If you are interested in volunteering, please send a letter or resume that summarizes your background to the mayor at jruocco@hillsdalenj.org with a copy to the borough clerk at dkohan@hillsdalenj.org

According to EC vice chair man Scott Raymond, “The ERI will give guidance to future and ongoing development in our town for many years to come. This living document can be amended and changed in accordance with the future of Hillsdale.”

He said, “As our town grows and changes, this document will also change accordingly.”

According to Rubel, “In addition to fulfilling its obligation of maintaining an inventory of open space in Hillsdale, the EC seeks to record for Hillsdale citizens and its governing officials the many unique and often overlooked environmental aspects that result in Hillsdale being a very special place.”

“Have you identified a species of plant or animal on your property or elsewhere in Hillsdale that is not listed in the ERI? If so, we invite you to snap a picture and send it along with a completed Form H.5 Hillsdale Wildlife/Vegetation Inventory [Data Input Report] so that we can recognize that you spotted this, and update our listing,” he said.

(You can download the form at hillsdaleec.org/2022/09/15/wanted-environmental-spotters.)

A printed copy and an online version of the ERI report are also available at the Hillsdale Free Public Library. For more information visit hillsdaleec.org

Youth video contest

Students age 16–21, your video prowess could win you an award. Bergen County Clerk John S. Hogan invites young filmmakers to enter video submissions of 3–5 minutes in his officeʼs “Get Out to Vote” video contest.

Topics aim at:

How to register to vote;

Different ways to vote; and

• Why the youth vote is so important.

Hoganʼs office says videos should be informative and appeal to a young audience.

Submissions must be original work. Videos cannot feature people or music without gaining approval through a signed release. Participants agree not to use, reproduce, incorporate into their submission, or display without permission any material or work created by or belonging to a third party By submitting your work to the Bergen County clerkʼs office you are giving the clerkʼs office the non-exclusive right to publish your work in any format. For more info, visit bergencountyclerk.org/Contests.

A growing, lively text: H illsdale Environmental Commission member Fred N. Rubel with the r eport he authored.

PASCACK VALLEY

PARK RIDGE

Congrats, New Junior Girl Scouts

Park Ridge Girl Scout Troop 7641 held their Bridging from Brownie to Junior Girl Scout on Sunday, Oct. 9. Troop leaders

Brittany Mayo, Melissa Stevens, and Maura Villani conducted the ceremony at Davies/Memorial Field, using the bridge to have the girls ceremonially transition to Junior Scout level.

The girls “flew with their Brownie wings” over the bridge and were welcomed by leader Maura Villani, assisted by Cadette Girl Scout Katelyn Levinson from Troop 6025, and received their junior sash/vest.

Tamara Levinson

RIDGE

Park Ridge Police Reserve seeks officers

The Reserve Unit of the Park Ridge Police seeks new officers.

The Reserve Unit is committed to upholding the Constitution, community, and agency it serves. The unit relies upon the professionalism, dedication, and commitment of its officers to accomplish this task.

The vision of the Reserve Unit is to work as a vital part of the police department in building and maintaining the strong bonds of a healthy community policing program. This will be accomplished by providing all officers with the tools they need. In turn, the unit will assist the police department in meeting the challenges of reducing crime, creating a safer community, and improving the quality of life.

The core values of this Unit are: integrity, professionalism, commitment, moral character, mutual respect, and teamwork.

Applications to become a reserve officer in Park Ridge are being accepted. Applicants should

understand they are volunteering to contribute to the overall mission of the unit. Individuals are expected to be professional on and off duty and will be held accountable for their actions at all times.

Before applying, make sure you and your family are ready for what will be required of you.

In order to qualify you must be a citizen of the Unites States, live within five miles of Park Ridge (provided no program exists in your municipality), be at least 18, be in good physical and mental health, be at least a high school graduate, not have a criminal record or unsatisfactory driving record (background check required), successfully complete the next class (held at night for three months), and expect to serve around 150 hours a year (includes training and duty time).

For more information and an application, call Sgt. DiBlasi at (201) 391-5400 ext. 5232 or stop by police headquarters.

Reach more customers

New Junior Scouts in Park Ridge Girl Scout Troop 7641:Annsley,Matea,Elaina,Lilah,Paulina,Brielle,Carly,Zoe,Amy, QiQi, and Brooke.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

MASTERGARDENDER SICHAKPRESENTS NOV.

The Sundial Garden Club is pleased to announce a presentation, “The Art, History, and Benefits of Indoor Gardening,” by Mary Jo Sichak, on Monday, Nov. 7 at 4 p.m.

The club meets at Hillsdale Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave.

Sichak is a master gardener and photographer with extensive teaching and speaking experience. Her garden was featured in the Garden Conservancy Open Days program. Her goal is to use photography to capture the natural

HILLSDALE

beauty of the moment and share it with others.

In this program, as the seasons change, Sichak will discuss how to enhance your life and home by bringing the green in. The talk will include a history of indoor gardening, how to choose and care for the right plant, decorating with live plants, and the health benefits of house plants.

The club welcomes all gardeners and would-be gardeners from the Pascack Valley. For more information visit sundialgc.org

Hillsdale 50+Club Octoberfest, more

The Hillsdale 50+ welcomes all residents and non-residents to join and meet other folks. Meet ings are the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. (There are no meetings in July and August.)

On Wednesday, Nov. 9, theclub rides to Spring Lake to enjoy a delicious lunch at The Shore Club, formerly Doolanʼs Restaurant. An open bar, delicious lunch

and dessert await. There will be a live band, dancing, and a comedian. Meet at 10 a.m. at Hillsdaleʼs Stonybrook Pool for the ride to The Shore Club. The cost is $59. Call Evelyn Pachner at (201) 666-7675.

On Wednesday, Dec. 14, the club holds its holiday gathering at Seasons in Washington Township. There will be holiday music, entertainment, and a delicious lunch.

HILLSDALE

125th Anniversary logo design contest

Next year the Borough of Hillsdale will be celebrating its 125th anniversary. The Borough of Hillsdale 125th Anniversary Celebration Committee is excited to announce a logo contest open to all residents.

The invitation reads, “We are seeking help to create a logo that

HILLSDALE

will be used for a variety of purposes, including the website, correspondence, social media platforms, signs, etc. Help us create a logo that reflects what we love about our borough and its unique characteristics.”

The invitation says the top submissions will be selected by a panel of community members, who have

design experience, and then presented to the committee for a final decision.

For contest rules, technical requirements, submission info, and the deadline, visit https://tinyurl.com/4y4cu2x5 Contestants also are encouraged to refer to hillsdalenj.org

Holiday boutique Nov. 12

Hillsdale United Methodist Church invites you to a holiday boutique on Saturday, Nov 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

Hillsdale United Methodist Church hosts a holiday boutique on Saturday, Nov 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. This exciting event is sponsored by the United Methodist Women, who work all year long to raise funds for missions around

the world.

When you do your shopping at a local vendor event, you support local merchants and small businesses. Every year, there is a wonderful variety of gift ideas on display and a great group of local professionals anxiously awaiting

your arrival. Vendors include crafters, local artisans, jewelry, skin care, and more. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Local businesses and organizations interested in participat ing should email Lesa Brinker at umwrocks@gmail.com

Ballanco on approach to Aviation Hall of Fame of NJ

Lt. Col. Edward M. Ballanco, USAF (ret.) formerly of Montvale, will be inducted into the Aviation Hall of Fame of New Jersey in a ceremony to be held at the Fiesta Ballroom, 225 NJ-17, on Tuesday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m.

The oldest of Edward and Eileen Ballancoʼs 10 children, Ballanco was born in Hackensack and grew up in Montvale. He graduated from Montvale Elementary School and St. Josephʼs High School, and Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken.

He began his aviation career in 1967 when he entered Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps at Stevens Institute of Technology.

He entered Air Force pilot training in September 1972 at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas and throughout his 23-year U.S. Air Force career served in numerous flying assignments as a flight leader, instructor pilot, flight commander and standardization evaluation flight examiner.

Ballanco was essential in implementing the “Wild Weasel” campaign during Desert Storm. In addition to combat mission planning, Ballanco flew 18 F-4G Wild Weasel combat missions, employing the AGM-88 High Speed Anti- Radiation Missile (HARM).

He received the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, as well as other awards.

Ballanco served as Chief Officer the Society of Wild Weasels a non-profit military fraternal organization.

He and his wife, the former Eileen Huff, who also grew up in Montvale —as the daughter of Mayor George and Agnes Huff — live in Williamsburg, Va. They are the proud parents of Col. Edward J. Ballanco USA, ret.; Jamie Bal lanco Young; Jeremy M. Ballan-

co; and Lt. Col. Matthew Ballanco, USAF; and have eight grandchildren.

Due to Covid-19 this is the first such induction ceremony in three years. Also inducted will be Dr. Eugene Richardson, one of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen; Dorothy Johanna Fulton

(Slinn), one of New Jerseyʼs first WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) during WWII; Michael Castania, Civil Air Patrol leader and educator; and William Thomas Wakinson Jr., a decorated WWII pilot.

The Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum is in the 400 Fred

Wehran Dr., Teterboro, and is open to the public Wednesday t hrough Saturday. For more information visit njahof.org —Editorʼs note: Lt. Col. Edward M. Ballanco was nominated for this award by Montvale historian Maria Hopper, who also furnished us with this story

Jumbo Bavarian Pretzel Authentic German Sauerbraten Bavarian Bratwurst Bratwurst Platter • Pork Schnitzel Apple Strudel • Seasonal Beers

Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of spooktacular Halloween light displays, enjoy our farm fresh goodies in our retail farm market. Warm-up by the fire pits & make your own S’mores!

Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of spooktacular Halloween light displays, enjoy our farm fresh goodies in our retail farm market. Warm-up by the fire pits & make your own S’mores!

Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of spooktacular Halloween light displays, enjoy our farm fresh goodies in our retail farm market. Warm-up by the fire pits & make your own S’mores!

Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of spooktacular Halloween light displays, enjoy our farm fresh goodies in our retail farm market. Warm-up by the fire pits & make your own S’mores!

Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of spooktacular Halloween light displays, enjoy our farm fresh goodies in our retail farm market. Warm-up by the fire pits & make your own S’mores!

Take your vehicle on a guided tour through 32 acres of spooktacular Halloween light displays, enjoy our farm fresh goodies in our retail farm market. Warm-up by the fire pits & make your own S’mores!

For more info and to purchase tickets online visit www.demar

ON 244

S C A C K V A L L E Y P R E S

Sembler, Cooper for WW BOE

To the editor:

WEAREWRITING this letter in support of the re-election of Michelle Sembler and the election of Laura Cooper. The choice is clear.

Michelle has proven to be such a tremendous asset to the board over the course of her three year term. She is currently serving as our board of education Vice President and has demonstrated her value time and time again. She has advocated for par-

ents, students, teachers, aides, increased safety measures, the implementation of SLEO III officers in each building, air conditioned buildings, smaller class sizes as well as a zero percent budget increase this past year. She is a strong leader, who is collabor ative, knowledgeable, fiscally responsible and supportive of all students. We need Michelleʼs voice up there so she can continue to raise the bar and help drive the district towards excellence.

Laura is a new voice in Westwood, and a strong sensible one that we need to complement our current board. Itʼs amazing the traction she has already garnered since the launch of her campaign, and that is due to her strong experience and authentic personality. I know this, because Iʼve taken the time to meet with her, speak to her and get to know how she can help our community. I want to encourage everyone to take some time to

meet her face to face. Unlike some others, she has the experience that we need. Sheʼs an proven leader with extensive policymaking know how and financial management expertise. She is also a strong communicator who has demonstrated the capacity and commitment to cut through noise and work towards positive solutions. With so many different priorities right now, Laura has the strength to work with the community to make sure our voices that are represented.

There are two open seats for the Westwood Regional Board of Education. Please join us in voting for both Michelle Sembler and Laura Cooper, as they are the two most qualified candidates. Casting your votes for them would ensure the continuation of the positive path we are on.

Kevin and Nancy Widmayer Westwood

Calling out for more love on trees

To the editor:

while only 41 new trees were planted. This destructive pattern of more trees taken down versus new trees planted has been going on for many years. The accumulated effect will be the denuding of Westwood street trees in the not so distant future. Unfortunately, these numbers speak for themselves.

“When will they ever learn?”

James Drew Westwood

Republican colleagues for Bicocchi, Dell in WW

To the editor:

R E PUBLICANMEMBERS o f

Westwoodʼs governing body support the re-election of Coun cilman Rob Bicocchi and Council President Beth Dell.

in other people andwho work with residents to move ideas into action. They have proven this time and time-again on the dais as Westwoodʼs elected representatives as well as off the dais in their volunteer work with our school district, local hospital and recreation programs.

Over the past several years, Rob and Beth have delivered for taxpayers by responsibly managing the boroughs finances, setting us up to weather the current economic challenges. During Westwoodʼs most challenging timestheyʼve worked hard to maintain and expandresidentservices, while continuing park and road improvements. As true leaders, they have outlined their plans for the next three years, including completion of Hegeman Park(a well-used neighborhood facility linked to Westvale Park), installation of early flood detection equipment f or Westwoodwaterways, known to cause flooding, multiyear road paving and maintenance program and expansion ofboroughservices to our senior community.

W

HEREHAVEALL Westwood trees gone? Long time passing.

This question echoes the song in the 1960s and which is now coming true on the neighborhood streets of Westwood. This year 107 trees were taken down

Now before you accuse us of partisan politics, keep in mind that we are the same Republicans who openly supported Democrat Erin Collins in her re-election bid for Westwood council. Many of you know usand know that we take pride in putting our town and residents before political party. We believe sensible and responsible residents feel the same way.

Rob and Beth are proven leaderswhoinspire confidence

CLUB NEWS?

Let us help promote your club or organization. Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or mail to: Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

Please join us in supporting Rob and Beth and putting performance over politics. They have delivered for residents for the past eight years and have a plan to continue to improve Westwood in the years to come. Vote Bicocchi & Dellon Tuesday, Nov. 8!

Ray Arroyo, Chris Montana, Cheryl Hodges, and Anthony Greco, Westwood

ON PAGE 20

Municipal: Changes on the dais in store after Nov. 8

administration a controversial, litigation-plagued downtown mixeduse development featuring 147 apartments was approved in late 2018. (The development is still under construction.)

See “Lamatina vs. DiPaola for

“I moved to Montvale in 1991, and having served as a Councilman for 15 years, I have spent almost half my residency in this office. During this time we have seen incredible changes in Montvale, but in all things we have attempted to provide sound, pragmatic leadership for the Borough,” Lane said.

conflict with each other, they will be achieved through the committed municipal government I am proud to serve,” he added. “I thank everyone in Montvale for their support.”

Roche also communicated his platform. A resident since 2005, he is a restaurant owner married with four children.

run. With these challenges came great uncertainty, but we steamed ahead and I believe we are stronger for it.”

vale resident since 1988, and is employed as a registered nurse. She is married with four children.

R

Mayor: Block 419 deal details emerge” and “Family Town council candidates square off,” Oct. 17, 2022.

Hillsdale, Montvale and River Vale have uncontested council or mayor races, while the Township of Washington offers no mayor or council races.

Mail-in voting has started; early voting starts at nine countywide locations Oct. 29 through Nov. 6, and in-person voting commences 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 8.

In this package of stories are the views of council candidates who replied to Pascack Press outreach seeking details on their plat forms.

For similar coverage of our area boards of education, both regional and local, see our PDF archive of back issues, via thep ressgroup.com

First, uncontested municipal races:

Hillsdale

The boroughʼs 8,591 regis tered voters will see a ballot with two uncontested council seats as Republican incumbent Janetta Trochimiuk , council president, and newcomer Justin P. Fox, run unopposed by any Democrats. Neither Trochimiuk nor Fox replied to our email requesting a copy of their campaign platforms.

Registered voters break down as 2,670 Democrats, 2,432 Republicans, and 3,489 unaffiliated voters, according to Bergen County Clerk data.

Montvale

The boroughʼs 6,760 voters find an uncontested race for three council seats, as incumbent Republicans Timothy Lane, Christopher Roche, and Theresa Cudequest , run unopposed by Democrats. Cudequest is running for an unexpired term.

Lane sent a brief description of his platform. A resident since 1991 and a career financial services executive, he is married with four children.

“Looking ahead, I look to focus on two key goals: maintaining Montvaleʼs strong financial position, and managing the forces that seek to overdevelop our town. While these two goals can often

He said he moved to Montvale in 2005, “with my first time running for office being November 2019. Shortly after being sworn in, Covid hit, drastically changing how I had to run my business, as well as how the town itself was

“Looking forward, I look to focus on two goals: First is to minimize overdevelopment in town, and second is to keep making fiscally responsible choices in our spending to keep our strong financial position. With the commitment of myself, my fellow council members, and the mayor, I feel we can accomplish these objectives,” Roche said.

Cudequest has been a Mont-

“I have witnessed some major changes within the town, most good, however some not so good. The overcrowding and development within the town has certainly changed its character,”she said.

Cudequest said she served on Montvaleʼs council from 20102014. She said she “was humbled and honored when asked by Mayor Ghassali to step in and finish out this last year of Councilwoman

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Letters:

Vote for Whyard in Westwood

To the editor:

I AMWRITING to support Lesley Whyard for Westwood Borough Council. I have observed Lesley to be someone who is incredibly compassionate, intelligent and deeply proud of all that Westwood has to offer as a great place in which to live and thrive at any age.

Years ago, when most of us werenʼt even aware of social media platforms, Lesley took it upon herself to create a Westwood, N.J. page on Facebook communicating about events, public notices, and sharing heartwarming stories and images that highlight the best of our community. Her compassion is demonstrated each day in her pet rescue work, and she has cheerfully stepped forward to volunteer with me at a local food pantry, delivering hot meals to shut-in seniors and handing out food to those in need.

I believe that bringing fresh eyes, new perspectives and diversity of thought to our governing body is something Lesley can offer to Westwood residents. Her financial acumen, approachability, collaborative style and humble

but assertive demeanor to advocate for all residents are the precise qualities we need to ensure that Westwood residents are ardently heard and represented. I urge you to support Lesley by giving her your vote on Nov. 8. Lisa Bontemps Westwood

The writer notes sheʼs writing for herself only, and not on behalf of any entity with which she is affiliated.

Keep Dell, Bicocchi on WWcouncil

To the editor:

MYFAMILYHASLIVED in Westwood for 24 years. Iʼve served on the Westwood Recreation Advisory Board for 15 years, appointed and reappointed by mayors of both parties. Iʼve seen mayors and council members change. I am voting on Nov. 8 to keep this very productive and collegial one intact.

While other town councils feature hostility and discord, Bicocchi and Dell have worked cooperatively and harmoniously in a bipartisan, really nonpartisan manner with Mayor Arroyo and their council colleagues.

Working remotely from home, I have seen the results of their work. Spending so much time in our downtown I saw first-hand how this special group of governing body members

improved the town in the face of potential disaster.

Now, we face another impending fiscal disaster — an i nevitable recession. We need Robʼs and Bethʼs depth of municipal experience, and proven management skills, to keep Westwood on the excellent trajectory this governing body has established.

When it comes to the issues that local governments can control, there is no better choice for all of us in Westwood than Bicocchi and Dell.

Angelo Pira Westwood

Build on library for senior center

To the editor: I HAVEBEEN a resident of Hillsdale for approximately 60 years and have been extremely happy residing in our community. The town does need a small community center. Right now the library in town is that center. For many clubs, groups and individuals a small addition to that build-

ing would serve the community better than any brand new freestanding facility.

Just the maintenance costs in a new facility requires a staff of people and major ongoing costs plus the cost of creating the building. Hillsdale is in no position to increase its taxes on its residents and if the building itself doesnʼt increase taxes the maintenance certainly will —and it will be substantial.

I urge the powers that be to review more carefully the possibility of utilizing the library first

WESTWOOD

NYC

Make your plans to kick off your holiday celebrations with a trip to see the 2022 Christmas Spectacular starring the peerless Radio City Rockettes on Sunday, Nov. 20.

Tickets for Westwood residents are $115 per person and are on sale now; non-residents may purchase tickets after Oct. 17, if they are available, at $125 per person. All tickets include the show and coach bus. The trip is organized by the Westwood Recreation Department.

Since 1933, The Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes has been an annual musical holiday stage show presented at Radio City Music Hall.

The 90-minute digitally enhanced show features more than 140 performers and an original musical score, and combines

singing, dancing and humor. The show is known for the Rockettesʼ iconic kick-line choreography of tap and jazz routines including “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” “Rag Dolls” and “12 Days of Christmas.”

Additionally, real-life camels, sheep and donkey are featured in the productionʼs “Living Nativity.”

The coach bus will leave the Westwood Community Center at 10 a.m. for a 2 p.m. showtime, allowing 2 1⁄ 2 hours for lunch and shopping. Return time is scheduled for 4 p.m.

All tickets are in the orchestra section and can be purchased at the Westwood Community

tix on sale

Center at 55 Jefferson Ave. Cash, checks, Visa and Mastercard are accepted. Only 50 tickets are available so interested parties are encouraged to buy tickets early.

All those wishing to attend the show please note: Radio City Music Hall coronavirus protocols may be in effect.

For more information, contact Westwood Recreation Director Gary Buchheister at (201) 664-7882 or gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov

“Christopher Anthony D’Eletto III”

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

PASCACK VALLEY

Can’tgetouttoGiulio’sRestaurant?Prepareitssignaturedishathome

Giulioʼs Restaurant meets a full array of dining and entertaining needs. Giulioʼs welcomes walk-ins, but takes reservations and offers takeout.

Giulioʼs will be delighted to host your holiday business of fam-

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

Enjoy making our Signature Dish at Home!

MEETS

St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club hosts a presentation, Simplifying Medication Management for Adults, at its next meeting, Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 1 p.m. in the gym. New members are always welcome. Please bring an item/donation for the food pantry. For more information call Elaine at (201) 6647037.

Upcoming events: St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club Christmas luncheon will be held

on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at noon at Madeleineʼs Petit Paris, Northvale. Cost is $50. Reservations and payment are due. Call Angie at (201) 666-3888

The club plans a New Yearʼs celebration trip to the Brownstone on Friday, Dec. 30. The afternoon event includes lunch, entertainment, transportation and gratuities. The cost is $75 per person. For reservations call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.

Giulio’s

Salmon Giulio stuffed with

celery add salt and pepper to taste.

Add honey mustard mix together w/crabmeat. Stuff in cen-

at 154 Washington Street, Tappan NY. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner.

Salmon Giulio stuffed with crabmeat

crabmeat

What youʼll need:

• 10 oz. Salmon Filet

• 3 tbs Colossal Crabmeat

• 1 tsp. honey mustard

• Dash of honey & balsamic vinegar

• 1 pepper diced

• Stalk celery diced

• Salt & pepper to taste

What to do:

Slice Salmon down center (lengthwise). Dice up peppers &

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

ter of salmon. Cook 10 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Drizzle with a dash of honey & balsamic vinegar dressing

•Buon Appetito!

Giulioʼs Restaurant is located

Visit Giulioʼs website for its menu: www.giuliosrestaurant.com

For reservations, takeout, catering, and more, call (845) 359-3657

formerly

Municipal: Who’s running for council seats Nov. 8

FROM

Rose Curryʼs term. Itʼs nice to be back and working with the council and Mayor Ghassali. I will continue to strive to keep over-development down and the safety within our town top notch.”

“Looking ahead, I look to focus on two key goals: maintaining Montvaleʼs strong financial position, and managing the forces that seek to overdevelop our town. While these two goals can often conflict with each other, they will be achieved through the committed municipal government I am proud to serve,” she said.

Registered voters break down as 2,008 Democrats, 1,960 Republicans, and 2,792 unaffiliated voters, according to county clerk records.

River Vale

The townshipʼs 8,495 voters face an uncontested local race, with incumbent Republican Mark Bromberg, council president, running unopposed for mayor, taking over for two-term Mayor Glen Jasionowski, who bowed out of contention earlier this year.

Jasionowski, a presence on the dais for a decade as mayor and councilman, decided to pursue

other opportunities. (See “Jasionowski out of race; Bromberg campaigns for mayor,” April 1, 2022, Pascack Press online.)

Running unopposed for two council seats are incumbent Democrat Denise Sieg and Republican James Tolomeo Jr. Pascack Press received the following statement from mayoral hopeful Bromberg, speaking for all three candidates.

The email said the three candidates represent, “River Vale Unified, Joint Slate for Mayor and Council. Council President Mark Bromberg, who is serving his eighth year as council president, will step up and run for Mayor. Dr. Mark Bromberg has a dental practice in Westwood and has served as the council liaison to the Board of Health. He has also served eight years as council vice president and as a member of the Planning Board.”

“Councilwoman Denise Sieg, who has been involved with our very successful Department of Public Works shared-service with Montvale, will run for another council term. Councilwoman Sieg has also served as council liaison to our River Vale Library and was integral to the completion of our Emergency Services Park, play-

ground and turf field. Denise can often be seen at town events,” said the statement.

It continued, “Rounding out River Valeʼs unified, joint slate for Council will be James Tolomeo. Jim has served on our Planning Board and currently sits as the President of our Library Board. Jim was a beloved football coach and served as Football Association President for six years as well as on the baseball and softball board

and sat on the Mayorʼs Turf Field Committee.

“Mark, Denise, and Jim look forward to working together to serve the residents of River Vale with continued stability and professionalism,” the statement concluded.

Registered voters break down as 2,482 Democrats, 2,577 Republicans, and 3,436 unaffiliated voters.

Township of Washington

There are no mayor or council races on tap for the townshipʼs 7,632 voters: 1,998 Democrats, 2,814 Republicans, and 2,820 unaffiliated.

Last November, in a close mayoral race, Republican incumbent Mayor Peter Calamari defeated former Independent councilman Michael DeSena 1,846 votes to 1,797 votes.

Election Day is Nov. 8.

Maalouf lands arts scholarship to RIT HILLSDALE

Marc Maalouf of Hillsdale has received a partial scholarship to Rochester Institute of Technology to pursue performing arts in instrumental music.

Maalouf, a graduate of Pascack Valley High School, is a firstyear student in the mechanical engineering technology BS pro gram.

Since 2019, more than 1,400 RIT students have received Performing Arts Scholarships, renewable for up to five years, as long as the students stay involved in performing arts. The students come from each of RITʼs nine colleges, with the majority from engineer ing and computer sciences.

RIT President David Munson has said the best students are students who are also involved in performing arts, which allow them to think creatively.

The experience also gives students a leg up with prospective employers who seek the best, well-rounded candidates who can think creatively in a variety of situations.

A School of Performing Arts

opened this year at RIT to offer non-majors in performing arts more opportunities to continue their performing passions in college. The opportunities for performing artists continues to grow on the RIT campus with the addition of two new buildings being erected to provide more rehearsal,

stage, studio, and theater spaces.

RIT says on its website, in a piece by Vienna McGrain, that “Maalouf is a hands-on learner and creator and said that RIT really struck a chord with him. He will be working toward his bachelorʼs degree in mechanical engineering technology and masterʼs degree in manufacturing and mechanical systems integration and dreams of one day working in the automotive industry.”

He told McGrain, “For such a STEM-heavy field, I believe having a masterʼs degree at a relatively young age will give me a sizable advantage for me in my job search, and hopefully will provide a lot of leverage and experience for me to springboard into my career with.”

He added, “As someone who has had an interest in cars as soon as I knew how to say the word, it was natural for me to choose automotive engineering as a career path, and I believe that this curriculum will give me all of the tools I need to make a career out of my passion.”

MARC MAALOUF

Free ‘Music at the Barn’ series continues

Bergen County Executive

James Tedesco III and the Bergen County Board of Commissioners invite the public to attend a free music concert featuring The Cider Barn Band on Sunday, Oct. 30, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. (rain or shine) at the Wortendyke Barn Museum, a County Historic Site at 13 Pascack Road.

This is the final concert in the music series season. Limited seating is available. Attendees are welcome to bring chairs and/or blankets for viewing, as well as food.

The Cider Barn Band core players are Kenny Kosek, fiddle; Barry Mitterhoff, mandolin; and Joe Selly, guitar.

The band has expanded to include friends and fellow bluegrass musicians: Marty Cutler, banjo, Marty Confurius, bass.

Kenny Kosek is one of the most recorded fiddlers in America today, having been the featured soloist on hundreds of albums, soundtracks and jingles. He can be heard on recordings by James Taylor, Jerry Garcia, David Byrne,

Chaka Kahn, Willie Nelson and also plays with his own Angelwood bluegrass band.

Barry Mitterhoff is a wellknown and versatile mandolin player who has toured with the

blues-rock band Hot Tuna and has played with tony Trischka and Skyline, John Gorka, Jorma Kaukonen and Hazel Dickens. He has been a featured performer at Carnagie Hall, Alice Tully Hall,

the White House, the Library of Congress, and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival.

Guitarist Joe Selly has appeared with Phoebe Snow, Vassar Clements, Barbara Eden,

Melissa Manchester and Tex Logan, and toured nationally with the Lombardo Orchestra. Joe is a teacher at Bergen Community College.

Marty Cutler has distinguished himself on the banjo in the genre of bluegrass as well as in jazz, rap and electronic music.

Marty Confurius on bass, has appeared with Margo Leveratt & the Klezmer Mountain Boys, Andy Statman, Dave Tarras, and Vassar Clements.

For concert info, call (201) 336-7292 or email glucente@co.bergen.nj.us.

The Wortendyke Barn has been a Pascack Valley landmark since its construction on 500 acres of land bought by the Wortendyke family in 1735. It was used continually as a barn into the 20th century and is one of only six pure Dutch barn types in Bergen County. In 1997, the barn opened as a museum with agriculture exhibits that include 18th and 19th century farm implements and tools, and the history of the Wortendyke family farm.

Westwood: Two incumbents, one challenger

FROM PAGE 3 borough need and want are important to me. As such, my goal is for the residents to feel more connected with the goings-on in our local government,” she said.

Having earned a bachelorʼs degree in public communication from Ramapo College, she said, communication is a strength of hers and has served her well.

PARK RIDGE

“Since my husband Jason and I moved here in 2005, we have raised a daughter and many rescue animals in our home and we wouldnʼt want to do it anywhere else,” Whyard said.

She said in 2010 she started a Westwood Facebook page, facebook.com/westwoodnj, that now has more than 7,000 followers.

She said that, during the Covid lockdown, she launched the

“Westwood Stronger Together” sign campaign through the page and sold hundreds of signs, raising $4,300 that was donated to the local ambulance corps and fire department.

As main office administrative assistant at Ridgewood High School, she said, she works close ly with the principal “to make decisions regarding the schoolʼs annual budget and handle the

PRfirefighters make lasting impression

Members of the Park Ridge Fire Department gave the Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club a lesson on fire safety and prevention at the clubʼs recent meeting.

Fire marshal John Hansen instructed the women in the use of fire extinguishers, the proper placement and maintenance of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and other ways to keep safe in the event of a fire.

Hansen was assisted in the presentation by assistant chief Mark Durst and former chiefs Bill Diedtrick and Pete Mauro.

Park Ridge and its fellow communities in the Pascack Valley are protected by fire departments made up wholly of volun teers.

Men and women age 18 and older can become firefighters upon completion of 200 hours of training at the Bergen County Fire Academy There is additional training throughout the year in their local communities.

In many towns, teenagers 14

Knowledge is power: Members of the Park Ridge Fire Department present on fire prevention to the Greater Pascack Valley Woman’s Club.Pictured:Former chief Pete Mauro, former chief Bill Diedtrick, club president Merci Norwood,club president Linda Ramagnano,assistant chief Mark Durst,and fire marshal John Hansen. Greater Pascack Valley Woman’s Club photo

and up can become fire cadets or fire reserves to learn about fire prevention and to assist the firefighters in non-fire-facing roles.

The Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club told Pascack Press on Sept. 27, “We thank the Park Ridge Fire Department for their

presentation — and thank the fire fighters in all our communities for their selfless dedication to keeping us safe.”

To become a volunteer firefighter, reach out to the fire department in your township or borough.

bookkeeping of over 100 student activitiesʼbank account lines.”

She said she recently served on a seven-person negotiating team for the Ridgewood Education Association “representing every teacher and secretary in the largest school district in Bergen County. After many hours of discussion and debate we reached a three-year settlement without having to work sans a contract or implement job actions.”

She said as a community volunteer, she has been an animal foster for several local animal rescue groups, a long-time member of Bergen County Players, a former Scouts BSA cubmaster for Pack 228, and first Girl Scout

master for Troop 321, and a volunteer at Parkside Community Church food pantry distribution.

“It is my intention to bring balance to the council: to better represent all of the residents of Westwood. I have the demeanor, thoughtfulness, and careful judgment that it will take to work with the mayor and council to make decisions that will positively impact the Westwood of today and beyond,” Whyard added.

For more information, visit facebook.com/OneWestwood

Registered voters break down as 3,014 Democrats, 2,374 Republicans and 3,034 unaffiliated voters. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8.

For concert information, call (201) 336-7292 or email glucente@co.bergen.nj.us.

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

PASCACK VALLEY

LocalstudentshelppowerU.N.InternationalDayoftheGirl

The United Nations paused on Oct. 11 to mark the 10th Annual International Day of the Girl. This event, Girls Speak Out, is a call for girlsʼrights that attracts participants from far and wide, including the Academy of the Holy Angels, which is dedicated to the education of young women.

Students hailing from Westwood and Park Ridge were among those participating.

Sister Beatriz Martinez-Garcia, SSND, director of the School Sisters of Notre Dameʼs United Nations Non-Governmental Organization Office, arranged for the Academyʼs students to attend this afternoon event in New York City. The SSNDs founded and sponsor Holy Angels, and are registered with the U.N. as an NGO, a connection that allows Angels to observe and participate in a variety of UN-based programs.

Chaperones included social studies teacher and Model U.N. moderator Jennifer Cucchici; religious studies teacher Carol Fay; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director Danielle Holmes; and AHA Director of Mission & Ministry Joan Connelly.

Everyone from AHA was delighted to be able to attend in person now that COVID restrictions have been relaxed.

“There is always a special excitement to being physically present at the U.N.,” Connelly said.She added, “It is an uplifting experience to be in the pres ence of those who are engaged in working for peace on a daily

basis. This event is worthwhile for the students on a number of different levels. However, if I had to choose one reason why this event is worthwhile, it is because it gives the participants a chance to hear from girl activists from countries around the world with experiences that are both similar and different from their own.”

She said the event supports AHAʼs mission “to develop leaders who recognize the dignity of all persons and promote justice and peace and the care of all of Godʼs creation.”

Performers and contributors shared stories about girls on near ly every continent. Contributors included representatives from Afghanistan, Australia, Brazil,

Cameroon, Canada, Cote DʼIvoire, India, Kenya, Lebanon, Mexico, Mozambique, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey, Uganda, the United States of America, Uzbekistan, and the United Kingdom.

Topics ranged from immigration, education, and leadership to violence, health, and sanitation.

This experience was particularly inspirational for Westwood resident Erin Pav (Class of 23), an aspiring human rights activist, who was the first Angel to sign up for the trip.

She said in an AHApress release, “I always wanted to go and visit the U.N. because I have been interested in current world

events since I was a child. The experience was truly incredible. It really motivated me to fight to one day speak or work at these events. The womenʼs work was truly inspiring and incredible.”

She added, “My favorite part was to hear from actual delegates and the chairman of the U.N. (Secretary-General Ant ó nio Guterres). Their words were quite inspiring and insightful.I really hope to work at the U.N. and fight for the rights of girls. I hope to one day speak at an event like this on what work I do.”

Pav is senior co-president of the award-winning AHA Model UN organization. She is also copresident of PowerBack, a program that empowers young people by teaching them how to rec ognize unhealthy relationships.

AHA students who attended this event included Alexia Adhikary and Elliott Bullis of Rutherford; Mariah Anderson of Englewood; Romina Beg a of Ringwood; Cara Boyce of Old Tappan; Raphaela Cárdenas of Clifton; Mia Aiko Chang of Valley Cottage, N.Y.; Yeon Choe of Nutley; Sidney Chung of

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Making their mark: Erin Pav of Westwood and Kyra S apontzis of Park Ridge were among students of the Academy of the Holy Angels adding their voices to Girls Speak Out Oct. 11.

C resskill; Audrey Collins of H arrington Park; Caroline Dupas of Pearl River, N.Y.; Lilianna Garber and Liana Powley of Mahwah; Natalia Gonzalez of Paterson; Celine He of Fort Lee; Celine Hong of Englewood Cliffs; Annabelle Hur of Norwood; Alexis Jacob of Tappan, N.Y.; Anna Jang of Tenafly; Natalia Jefferson, Evelyna ( Speridoula) Pavlatos, and Christina Stathatos of Cresskill; Charlotte Lasaga and Rafaelle Zorea of Hoboken; Lucia McClure of Wyckoff; Vanessa Medina of Nanuet, N.Y.; Chloe Rodriguez of Leonia; Olivia Roque of Little Ferry; Kyra Sapontzis of Park Ridge; Ellie Sawyer of Weehawken; Elise Tao of Upper Saddle River; Alexandra Valdez of Oakland; Nicole Yakubov of Teaneck; and Federica Zazzali of Saddle River.

This annual celebration was established through the U.N. General Assemblyʼs 2011 adoption of Resolution 66/170, which designated a day that showcases young female leaders and explores ways to better the lives of girls everywhere. The first International Day of the Girl was held in October 2012.

Founded by the School Sis ters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼ school in Bergen County.

While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this presti gious school serves young women from a broad spectrum of cultural and religious back grounds.

IHAopen houses Oct. 23 and 27

Immaculate Heart Acade myʼs Fall open houses are Sun day, Oct. 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 27 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The school says, “If you are a young woman searching for a school known for its academic excellence, athletic competition, and creative expression grounded in traditional Catholic values, Immaculate Heart Academy (IHA) is the place for you.”

It adds, “Students from eight counties in New Jersey and New

York call IHA their second home, and we would love for you to join them. The sisterhood formed at IHA is incomparable, and the memories made last a lifetime— just ask the 10,869 graduates who have graced the IHA halls.”

Registration is requested at ihanj.com Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, contact Lauren Rhein ʼ09, director of admissions, at (201) 445.6800 ext. 112 or lrhein@ihanj.com. IHA is at 500 Van Emburgh Ave.

Letters:

floor childrenʼs room to be a senior center and move the childrenʼs room to the third floor.

There is a limit, or at least should be a limit, to taxation in our community.

Paul Gross Hillsdale

Frank, Falato-Lau for Park Ridge BOE

To the editor:

A S WEEAGERLYAWAIT the Pascack Pressʼs coverage of the Board of Education race in Park Ridge, we want residents to know about our grassroots campaign to win two seats. We believe we represent the values of Park Ridge parents who desire quality education, and taxpayers who want their dollars spent wisely.

Our goals are to:

•Eliminate wasteful spending that is not in the studentʼs best interest;

•Increase parent involvement and input;

•Improve communication and transparency about day-today operations, curriculum, teacher training, and ongoing stu

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

dent assessments; and

• Promote academic excellence and mental wellness.

Our campaign is not funded by special interest groups or unions, which ensures our independence and ability to put students first. So, on Nov. 8, vote Frank and Falato-Lau for Park Ridge BOE.

Leann Frank and Liza Falato-Lau, Park Ridge

Emerson incumbents deserve vote

To the editor:

IF ANY E M ERSON r esident needs to be convinced who to vote for in this yearʼs municipal election, he or she simply has to read the Oct. 17 article in the Pascack Press entitled “Lamatina vs. DiPaola for mayor; Block 419 deal details emerge.”

If the name Lamatina has an infamous ring to it, thatʼs because itʼs the surname of our previous mayor, Lou Lamatina. It was his administrationʼs tonedeaf disregard for the wishes of Emersonʼs residents that led to his electoral defeat in 2018.

This time itʼs his wife, Jeanine, whoʼs running for mayor; but her comment that her campaign is “just word of mouth” is

telling, since it means that sheʼs not running a real campaign. Itʼs clear that her candidacy is merely an opportunity for her husband to exact political revenge.

Ms. Lamatina sides with the downtown redeveloper in his frivolous lawsuit against the town, repeating the false allegation that the borough is delaying the Block 419 project, without any proof. Her statements are full of the same deception and lack of transp arency that defined her husbandʼs administration.

In sharp contrast is the record of her campaign opponent, Mayor Danielle DiPaola, and Mayor DiPaolaʼs running mates, councilwomen Nicole Argenzia and Jill Maguire.

I know firsthand from serving on the governing body with all three incumbents that they put the people of Emerson first. They u nderstand what the previous administration didnʼt: that Emerson residents cherish their quiet s ingle family neighborhoods. They have worked hard, despite the challenges of the courtʼs Mount Laurel mandates, to preserve Emersonʼs unique smalltown charm.

And they are clearly devoted to open government, proven by the fact that all council meetings are televised/streamed. DiPaola, Argenzia and Maguire have embraced the entire community, providing a bus service for our seniors, new recreational programs for our youth and public recognition of our military veterans.

I have always believed that itʼs the primary obligation of elected officials to listen to the people they serve. If thatʼs the kind of government you want, then you will join me in voting for Danielle DiPaola for mayor and Nicole Argenzia and Jill Maguire for council on Nov. 8.

Kenneth Hoffman Emerson

Fan of Dell, Bicocchi in Westwood

To the editor: I AMWRITING in support of the re-election of Council President Beth Dell and Councilman Rob Biccochi to Westwood Council.

I served on the executive board of the PTO with Beth, when our children, who have since grown up together in this community, entered elementary school. And Iʼve known Rob for 20 years. I have the utmost respect for them both.

Westwood is such a uniquely caring town. Beth and Rob have a long history of service and caring for our community. As councilmembers they have excelled and are proven stewards of our trust.

Beth and Rob have never marched to the beat of partisan drums. They have never used divisive national issues, to color the local matters they can actually decide. Beth and Rob have always, and only, focused on whatʼs good

for Westwood.

Some of the welcome changes theyʼve brought to Westwood include a closer relationship with our Pascack Valley Hospital which was essential during COVID. Robʼs role as an active board member there enhanced the Mayor and Councilʼs access to hospital administration.

Bethʼs work with Celebrate Westwood and the Westwood Chamber of Commerce triaged the economic health of the downtown during the pandemic. Her recent work with the New Jersey Film Commission has brought much production activity and attention to our scenic community.

And her shared services work with Emerson has expanded bus services for the senior population of both towns at a cost savings for taxpayers.

Westwood has done very well under Beth and Robʼs thoughtful and practical leadership. I see no reason to change course.

My family will vote with confidence for Westwoodʼs continued success, by re-electing Biccochi and Dell on Nov. 8

Paula Loverich Westwood

CONTINUED

G Geet t t h he e R Reessuul l t s s Get the results you’re looking for in the Service Directory in Pascack Valley Press. To place your service ad, please call 201.664.2105

A S C A C K V A L L E Y P R E

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

mall’s next hearing Nov. 15

FROM PAGE 1

Over two hours, the attorney and applicant engineer Calisto Bertin, Bertin Engineering, Glen Rock, provided a project overview and answered a few questions from residents following a nearly 90-minute discussion.

The next hearing on the proposal is Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m. Project documents are posted under a highlighted Zoning Board applications link.

(See also “Seasons owners propose retail mall,” Pascack Press, Oct. 17, 2022.)

Whitaker said the proposed retail center, which includes a 2,400-square-foot retail building, possibly a restaurant, and a second 14,700-square-foot retail space, is “not your traditional shopping center or strip mall.”

He said some retail could include a bagel shop, a beauty salon, and a barber shop. He said the site would be upgraded with

“substantial landscaping” that would include a buffer of plantings that would help screen the onsite retail buildings.

Whitaker said the project includes 102 parking spaces, including six electric vehicle charging spaces. State rules allow each EV space to count as two parking spaces due to increased cost. The EV spaces add up to 108 parking spaces, while local code calls for 107 spaces, he said.

He also noted several times that 660 Pascack Realty LLC had worked with Bergen County in granting property easements to widen the intersection, with work ongoing and due for completion by early 2023.

In March 2022, the township purchased easements for $158,000 on seven lots adjacent to the Pascack Road–Washington Avenue intersection for the intersection overhaul. The lots were owned by 660 Pascack Realty LLC, whose

principal owner is James Kourgelis, owner of Seasons Catering.

Whitaker said “this (proposed) use complements the uses on the three other corners” and noted the project would provide sidewalks, and “supplement and improve” the now dilapidated property, which includes longshuttered, vacant homes owned by 660 Pascack Realty LLC.

Applicant engineer Calisto Bertin said he has designed a number of commercial facilities similar to what is being proposed. He also said he has been working with the Kourgelises for “six to seven years” on the propertyʼs development. He said the site is zoned “AA” as a single-family, townhouse district and now includes five single-family houses with driveways that exit onto Pascack Road.

He said a stream that runs behind the five properties used to be a “regulated” waterway under NJDEP because it drained an area of 50 acres or more. However, he said that NJDEP recently issued a clarification letter in January 2020 that the stream is “not regulated” because its drainage area is less than 50 acres.

Later during public comment, resident Jim Walsh questioned the calculations that led to the waterwayʼs drainage basin totaling 48.2 acres, about two acres less than what a regulated stream would require. He questioned why his property was not included in the drainage area.

Bertin and Whitaker said the

calculations were made based on area topographic maps. Whitaker said the streamʼs non-regulated status determination was approved by NJDEP.

Bertin said that large buffer areas (generally 200-foot buffers for regulated waterways) that would be required near the stream to protect it are not required now because the stream is no longer regulated.

In addition, he said that his clients have been working with the county for five years on the intersection road widening and property easements.

Bertin said that Building A, closer to Washington Avenue, has a height of 27 feet, 7 inches and “certainly meets the height requirements” and that Building B, the larger retail structure, has a 29.2 feet height, though the buildingʼs roof peak is 33 feet high.

Later, board engineer Paul Azzolina questioned Bertinʼs height measurements, noting they were incorrect due to Bertin not measuring from average ground elevation to the highest point of any roof structure.

Azzolina said figures could be recalculated using the “AA” zoning code and that the codebook and height measurements could be “a little confusing.”

Bertin discussed proposed site driveways opposite Jefferson Avenue and opposite McKinley Avenue along Pascack Road. He said these driveways opposite existing streets were preferred “from a traffic perspective.”

He said a third driveway, along Washington Avenue, allowed westbound vehicles on Washington Avenue to enter the site and exiting vehicles to merge onto Washington Avenue westbound heading towards the Parkway and Ho-Ho-Kus.

He said Bergen County engineers had seen the proposed driveways and the plan was likely to get “conditional approval” when next submitted to the county. Both Washington Avenue and Pascack Road are county roads.

Bertin said there will be a 24-foot-wide drive aisle behind the two retail buildings, which includes a 12-foot-wide loading zone where trucks will park parallel to the buildings to unload. He said that was sufficient “for a truck to pass another truck and park for deliveries.”

Whitaker said signs may be posted to prohibit cars from entering this area.

Michael Ullman, a former Independent councilman, asked if the project owners had “stipulated allowed uses and disallowed uses” questioning if they might allow a 7-Eleven convenience store or a coffee shop. Whitaker said that no stipulations by the property owners were being sought.

Azzolina said that the board could decide whether to require a traffic impact report, noting the county did not require one of the applicant because county engi neers were aware of the siteʼs design.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

CONTENT

DR. KAPLAN: When head injuries hit back harder over time

From 1999 to 2019, the U.S. mortality rate from Alzheimerʼs disease (AD) in the overall population increased 88%. As it is such a problem, scientists and researchers are always looking for causes and ways to prevent Alzheimerʼs disease and dementia.

function now, before it progresses.

If you have had any type of head injury, whether it is from playing sports, a car accident, or a slip and fall, it is vital to get analyzed with a full neurological evaluation to figure out what areas of the brain or body, if any, are not functioning at optimal levels.

a VNG to measure each area of the brain to see how it is functioning and what areas need the most help. This is normally $400 at my Emerson office, but if you respond by the end of October, you can receive the entire test for only $97.

tion this article and schedule your two-hour appointment before the end of November.

work together to improve your quality of life, your focus, and your mood.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

One study found that the risk of being diagnosed with dementia after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) was four to six times higher when compared with individuals with who did not sustain a TBI.

The development of dementia, with impaired executive function, an increased risk of falling, and reduced cognitive function was significantly associated and observed more than 30 years after their TBI.

This means your head injury can cause problems later in life, so it is best to take care of any dys-

HILLSDALE

If you take action and address these problems now, you can improve your brain function and prevent future neurological problems such as dementia, Alzheimerʼs disease, or Parkinsonʼs disease.

Luckily, there are usually early clues or signs that the brain is not working properly and these signs will help you realize if it is time for a neurological check-up.

Some examples of early signs include complaining of brain fog, trouble with focus, low energy, headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances, poor memory, stomach problems, decreased motivation, depression, or anxiety.

The best way to determine your risk of Alzheimerʼs disease is to do a complete one hour neurological evaluation, which includes

FALL ‘FUN’ RAISER TOBENEFITLIBRARY

The Hillsdale Free Public Library Foundation, with assistance from the Friends of the Hillsdale Library, will host a fundraiser on Thursday, Nov. 17 from 7 to 9 p.m.

The event will feature wine and cheese tastings by Garyʼs Wine and Marketplace, chocolate tastings by Conradʼs, live jazz performed by the Baxter Quartet, and a silent auction of over 100

items.

Proceeds from the event will be used to purchase new meeting room chairs, furniture and to improve the technologies and equipment at Hillsdaleʼs popular community resource.

Tickets are $25 each and may be purchased in advance at the library or online. Attendees must be 21 or older. For more information visit hfpl.org

The next best test is called a qEEG which is a noninvasive test that measures your brain waves to determine any damaged areas. This test is also normally $400 and now you can receive this entire test for only $97 as well.

To top it off, for the first seven people that sign up, you will get three bonus gifts: a free one hour oxygen chamber treatment, a quality vitamin D supplement, and my signed book “Boost Your Brain Power,” in addition to getting both tests (a total value of $1000) for only $150 if you men-

WESTWOOD

New officers at WFD

Ladies’ Auxiliary

The Westwood Fire Department LadiesʼAuxiliary announces newly elected officers for 202223:

•President – Dianne Voorhis •1st Vice President – Joan Paff

•2nd Vice President – Jill Nugent

•Recording Secretary –Christine Scheideler

•Corresponding Secretary –Karen Wright

•Treasurer – Jen Oriolo

•Chaplain – Christine Scheideler

Always remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Do not wait until your symptoms get worse and worse and the damage is harder to reverse. The time is now. Letʼs

HILLSDALE

Please call (201) 261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to set up your initial evaluation. Looking forward to helping you live the happiest and healthiest life possible.

Rabies clinic at Stonybrook Nov. 2

The Borough of Hillsdale is hosting a free drive-through rabies clinic on Wednesday, Nov. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Stonybrook Swim Clubʼs parking lot, 183 Cedar Lane. Dogs are seen from 6 to 7 p.m.; cats from 7 to 8.

PASCACK VALLEY

Bring your dogs leashed and your cats crated.

No licenses will be issued. Dog and cat licensing for 2023 begins this Nov. 7.

For more information, call (201) 666-4800, ext. 1525.

Ask the Dentist: Plan before you plan to have a Dental Implant

The general public has gotten used to seeing advertisements and various information about dental implants.

surgeon and restoring doctor may be the same, in many cases there will be one doctor who places the implant (or anchor) and another doctor who is responsible for fabricating the tooth or teeth on the implant anchor or anchors.

ROBERT H. GULLER, D.M.D OF PASCACK DENTAL ARTS

An interesting fact is that many people do not understand that an implant is not a tooth. An implant is actually an anchor for a tooth or teeth. People think they want and need implants, but what they real ly want are teeth. In much the same way people want a house to live in, but they are not as excited about having a concrete foundation.

Why do I make this point?

For several reasons:

1. As more people understand this important concept, it makes our job as dentists easier.

2. Most importantly patients need to understand that if they decide to go though the implant process, they should begin with the end result in mind. Just like the process of building a house, the final plans should be completed before the actual building process begins .

In planning an implant case, the final plan or in many cases variety of plan options should be “engineered” and be presented by the restoring dentist who will be responsible for putting teeth on those implants. Patients may or may not have an idea about what they want their final case to be.

In some cases, the implant

It is very important to know what the final case will look like before the implants are installed because the position, size, number and angulations of implants will vary from case to case and from individual to individual. The type of implant and implant design may vary from case to case and the type of foundation need in terms of bone volume and dentistry can affect both the planning and outcome of a case.

For these reasons, it is in the best interest of the patient to be evaluated prior to the placement of an implant or implants to plan the final case before it begins. Once implants are surgically placed, and some time has passed, it is very difficult to remove or change the position of the implants without causing potential prob lems.

Hopefully this information will be helpful to those who are thinking about dental implants. Maybe it would be less confusing for dental implants to be called dental anchors, so that people would understand that an implant is not a tooth.

For questions about this and other dental procedures contact Dr. Guller at askdrguller@aol.com or call (201) 391-5565.

WAYS TO HELP PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM FRAUD

ERIC KOHLMEIER

From listening t o music to o rdering groceries, almost a ll aspects of our daily lives are connected to the Internet in s ome way.

Nearly a third of Americans say theyʼre “almost c onstantly” online, with 81% using the Internet at least once a day.

B ut our always-connected nature can come with risks: The FBIʼs Internet Crime Complaint

Center averages more than 900 complaints a day; the center recorded $2.71 billion in victim losses in 2019.? Here are some ways you can help protect your family online.

1. Learn to spot imposter scams. Have you ever received a call, text, or email purporting to be from your credit card provider regarding suspicious activity detected on your account? It could be a scammer trying to convince you to share sensitive information that would enable them to access your accounts.

Increasingly, these criminals

may be able to spoof caller ID or an email address so it appears they are legitimate. When in doubt, do not respond. Instead, alert your provider about the susp icious communication. Learn more about how to spot common scams at.wellsfargo.com/scams.

2 . Manage and monitor your credit. If your data has been compromised through a security breach, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file with the three major credit bureaus. Visit c onsumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0014-identity-theft for more information on identity theft pre-

vention tips and resources you can share with your family.

Make a habit of reviewing credit reports for you and your child at least once a year. Look for unauthorized accounts that may have been opened in your names.

More than 1 million children were victims of identity fraud in 2017, according to one study from banking industry research firm Javelin Strategy & Research.?

3. Limit what you share on social media. Thieves scour social media profiles for clues to s ecurity questions, passwords, and other information that could help them impersonate potential victims online.

First, set your profiles to private—and encourage your family members to do the same. Also, restrict your social media contacts to people you know personally.

Finally, watch what information you disclose. Revealing too much personal information in your social profiles can put you at greater risk of identity theft, especially if your bank or other companies use that information to verify your identity.

4. Protect your home network. Create a strong password for your wireless network in your home. Consider using a unique phrase with a mix of letters and numbers. Avoid using any part of your email address or information shared on social media, like the name of your pet, favorite movie, or anything else someone could easily guess. When you are con figuring your router, the Department of Homeland Security rec-

ommends choosing the Wi-Fi P rotected Access 2 (WPA2) Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) setting, which is the strongest encryption option.?

5. Stay up to date. Cybercriminals change their tactics frequently, so families should stay on top of the latest threats. B e sure to work with Wells Fargo Advisors and other financial providers to understand ways to protect yourself as you conduct financial business online.

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 planning 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.

Investments in securities and insurance products are not FDIC-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.

© 2017–2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

Ask: Calamari says he’ll request county help on DPW

FROM PAGE 9

Morgan previously publicly stated that Tedesco told her that he would help out “in a pinch” to store DPW vehicles and equipment.

In mid-August, Calamari revealed that the new design for a proposed $4.5 million DPW facility at town hall would not include enough space to store all DPW vehicles and equipment. Some equipment is seasonal, used only for leaf and snow removal, and stored at the club, he said.

Letters:

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

Council ‘connections’ on center?

To the editor:

ASAFOLLOW-UP to my recent letter (“Stonybrook center as boondoggle”( Pascack Press ,

WESTWOOD

Council members said they also received a letter from the Golden Seniors Club. That letter said seniors were “very nervous” about how an expanded DPW facility at town hall might affect seniorsʼparking and accessing municipal business, such as senior meetings and voting.

Conti pressed the mayor on whether the availability of county storage would mean DPW vehicles could be removed from the swim club site. Calamari said he would say a tentative “yes” but it would ultimately depend on the

L etters , Oct. 10, 2022) I wanted to let Hillsdale residents know that not one of the counc il members responded to my implied challenge for them to step forward and clarify their c onnection to the planned $2 million community center. Weʼd still like to know if they d o o r d o not b enefit personally from this unneeded construction.

Still waiting.

DPWʼs input and where the county would offer to store the excess equipment.

Calamari said he would seek “more details” from the Bergen County executive on where township DPW equipment could be stored, noting Paramus would work versus the other side of Bergen County.

Calamari said he would give Conti a copy of the formal request letter after it is sent to Tedesco.

DPW equipment that was previously stored in 35 spaces at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church for $2,500 monthly was

PASCACK VALLEY

moved to the swim club in May following the club purchase.

Resident Julianne Lipnick, Finnerty Place, suggested Calamari consider the lot near the new firehouse, formerly occupied by a now-demolished red house, to store excess DPW equipment in a metal storage shed.

Calamari said plans were to have the lot paved for commuter parking, which was eliminated when the new firehouse was built in its place.

However, should the commuter parking not be needed there, Calamari said he would be “happy

to consider storing some equipment there also.”

Recently, council members asked architect Arcari Iovino to redesign the DPW facility and present them with some steel structure options for a new DPW facility and equipment storage, hoping to possibly halve the $4.5 million estimated cost for a new DPW facility by using a steel building for storage needs.

The former DMF/DPW headquarters at the municipal complex was razed recently so that toxic soil beneath it could be remediated.

GIRLS COME THROUGH FOR COUNTY HORSE RESCUE

Lou Ross Hillsdale

SENIORS’ HALLOWEEN DINNER, DANCE OCT. 29

The Westwood Senior Fellowship is celebrating its Halloween Hootenanny dinner and dance at Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave., Saturday, Oct. 29. The doors are open 4:30 to 8 p.m. “Anyone wishing to

take the senior van please call Mary Cerrati at (201) 664-4538 to reserve a bus ride for ticket holders only.”

In light of Election Day, Nov. 8, the fellowship next meets on Tuesday, Nov. 15.

Temple Pledge Group #19 Rainbow Girls visited the Bergen County Horse Rescue in Mahwah on Oct. 2 to deliver the paper towels, blankets, and old towels that they collected for their service project. They also presented the

Rescue with a $500 donation.

The group told Pascack Press on Oct. 18, “BCHR gave a wonderful tour of their historic facility and the girls had a great time getting to know all the horses!”

Rainbow is a unique leader-

ship and service organization for girls ages 5–20 that develops incredible public speaking skills and lifelong friendships.

New members are welcome year round. Write temple pledge19@gmail.com

Elks Army of Hope sign fundraiser

Itʼs that time of year! The Westwood Elks is conducting its Elks Army of Hope fundraiser. The initiative supports our troops who have been injured, maimed, or given the ultimate sacrifice in performing their duties for our country.

This support helps these heroes and their families financially with housing, necessities, schooling, and more. Please show your support

by decorating your lawn with a lawn sign for a $25 donation to the Elks Army of Hope.

This year brings a choice of signs. Pick one for your lawn.

Act now and have it for Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

Call Carl at (201) 446-6047 or the Westwood Elks Lodge at (201) 666-1562. Please leave a message

Way to go! Temple Pledge Group #19 Rainbow Girls visit the Bergen County Horse Rescue in Mahwah on Oct. 2, vital donations — goods and funds — in tow.

‘YOUR HOME,YOUR FUTURE’OCT.27

Improving a home's safety a nd functionality dramatically increases the ability of older people to live independently and remain in their homes in order to effectively age in place.

With that in mind, Westwood For All Ages is partnering with local social services providers to present “Your Home, Your Future,” a free conference featuring presentations by various organizations that provide home safety, maintenance, repair and modification services; experts in home adaptations for safety and providers of shopping and other services that enable people to remain living in their homes.

The event runs Thursday, Oct. 27 from 8:30 a.m. to noon p.m. at the Westwood Communi-

WESTWOOD

ty Center, 55 Jefferson Ave.

Following a light breakfast, attendees will learn ways to remain living safely at home with presentations and a panel discussion with:

•CHORE/CHEER prog rams (services offered) — Michele Ogden, Bergen Volunteers;

•No-cost home repair and m odifications for low-income residents — Annie Roche, Rebuilding Together North Jersey

•Practical strategies to make your home safer as you age — Illiana Dallas, The Jewish Home Family;

• Home modification and smart technology ideas to make your home more age-friendly — Linda Pollack, Setting the Stage;

YEAR’SFINAL SHOPTHE HUBEVENT NOV. 17–19

Save the dates:Thursday, Nov. 17 to Saturday, Nov. 19 is the the final Shop the Hub event of 2022. Retail stores and restaurants across Westwood are invited to participate by offering featured sales, specials, and services unique to their business both in store, and on sidewalks.

Celebrate Westwood created Shop the Hub days in spring 2020 to create the spirit of a sidewalk sale in which many businesses participate toward a common goal, without needing to close the streets.

Since then, the event has grown to include more than 40 unique businesses. Participants have set up merchandise or activi ty tables along the sidewalk adjacent to their storefront, created sales or highlighted already ongo ing promotions and menu items, and have invited unique pop-up experiences.

Celebrate Westwood has been working to transition this shopping event back to the hands of the local businesses through the Westwood Chamber of Commerce. For businesses to take full advantage of publicity and marketing for the event provided by Celebrate Westwood and the Westwood Chamber of Commerce, registration must be completed by Nov. 1.

Westwood businesses are encouraged to register at celebratewestwood.org/shoplocal. Businesses that have already registered

for the full year of events do not need to re-register. For a list of participating businesses, and to help plan your day in the Hub of the Pascack Valley, visit celebratewestwood.org/shoplocal. Sales, specials, and sips are at the discretion of individual businesses.

• Best ways to use your home equity to pay for improvements or modifications — Mark R ichards, retirement mortgage specialist.

All attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of presenters and to gather information on ways they can get assistance when caring for their homes becomes difficult or financially burdensome.

According to Westwood for All Ages Program Manager, Lisa Bontemps one of the core objectives of the age-friendly initiative has been to promote Westwood as an ideal borough for aging in place. “But,” she said, “the reality for many is that the majority of our single-family homes were not built with the needs of the aging adult in mind. The information that will be presented at this conference will help anyone who is concerned about remaining in their homes to make choices that will give them tools to safely age in place — something that most of us want regardless of our age.”

Westwood for All Ages is an initiative to make Westwood an age-friendly community — a place where all people can live well and thrive even as they age.

The program is funded

through a grant provided by the Henry and Marilyn Taub Foundation to Meals on Wheels of North Jersey. Through their work, Westwood was recognized by AARP and the World Health Organization as an Age Friendly Community and as a result was inducted into the network of Age Friendly

States and Communities in early 2019.

To register for the conference, use the conference link at w estwoodforallages.org or email ww4allages@gmail.com . If you are unable to register digitally, you may register at (201) 8344192.

RIVER VALE

Ragamuffin parade Saturday, Oct. 22

Calling all River Vale families! The townshipʼs annual Ragamuffin Costume Parade is set for Saturday, Oct. 22.

Participants should line up in front of 7-Eleven, on the corner of Westwood Avenue and Rivervale Road, at 9 a.m. The parade begins at 9:10 and proceeds down Westwood Avenue toward Roberge School.

The invitation reads, “With help from the River Vale Girl Scouts

EMERSON

Stop &Shop job fair Oct. 22

Stop & Shop will hold a job fair at its store at 600 Kinderkamack Road on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. as it looks to fill open positions across the store.

The jobs include part-time roles across the front end, grocery, deli, porters and overnight crew, as well as online pick-up associates. Interested applicants can obtain an on-the-spot interview to work and grow with the supermarket chain.

The open, part-time posi tions provide up to 28 hours of

work each week. Part-time employees receive competitive pay, paid training, flexible schedules, a company discount, paid time off, and career advancement opportunities.

Cashiers and baggers must be at least 16; all other positions require applicants to be 18 or older.

Those who are interested in a position with Stop & Shop but cannot make the job fair can apply online at stopandshop.reidsystems.com

there will be a very special trunk or treats for all ages. We will have a family friendly Halloween movie and refreshments following in the Roberge gym (please note there will be no parking in the school lot).”

In case of severe rain, the parade will be canceled but the festivities will still be held at the Roberge gym at 9:30

P Paassccaacck k P Prreesss s

welcomes press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements an event photographs from all towns in the Pascack Valley. Send all news to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net

Serving well, doing good

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Following a 7 p.m. Mass delivered by Chaplain Fr. Ray Rodrigue, in a Sept. 29 ceremony accompanied by the Joseph Lamb Assembly Fourth Degree Color Corps and attended by Knights of Columbus members and families, the K of C officers of Mother Seton Council #5427 were installed by the orderʼs New Jersey State representative, District Deputy John Sender. Officers installed for the 2022–2023 term were Grand Knight Rick Hodgman, Deputy Grand Knight Matt DʼElia, chan-

cellor George Kuzma, recorder Mark Holmes, treasurer Mike Richetti, warden John Pimpinella, inside guards John Quinn and Steve Bush, outside guard Mike Fusco, financial secretary Dan Licini, advocate Bob Hibler, and trustees Fran Sullivan, Vinny Vinagre, and Dan Scudieri, and lecturer Deacon Bob Glasner

A lively social followed the ceremony

Applications for membership in the Knights of Columbus are welcome from qualified individuals. For more information call (201) 664-0422 or visit kofc5427.com

WE’RE HIRING! CALL FOR DETAILS!

Grand Knight Rick Hodgman presentins the Knights of Columbus Trustee’s Medal to Dan Scudieri.In the background:District Deputy John Stendor,who presided over the Sept.29 installation ceremony.

PHMarching Broncos hit the road, and win

FROM

tations for the band. Competition was in a different class, if you will; they didnʼt do as well — but I was really proud of how well they performed and what they saw that weekend. It was a good time.”

He said, “From an experience perspective, I told them going into it, ʻThis is the next level, and youʼre going to meet bigger bands, bands with more stuff, and are more competitive. So this is kind of the future, really. If you wanted to go there, this is what the future would look like.”

Dore joined the faculty at Pascack Hills in 2017 after a fouryear tenure at South Plainfield High School. There, he was in charge of the concert band, jazz band and marching band.

At PH, he oversees the Concert Band preparation for the winter and spring concerts, and music technology and guitar classes. His extracurricular activities include Pep Band, Jazz Band, AV director and auditorium director.

The Hills Music Department, under supervisor Noemi Rodr í guez-Grimshaw, serves Montvale and Woodcliff Lake.

The Pascack Valley High School Marching Band, serving Hillsdale and River Vale, and led by director of bands Daniel Pasquale, includes a marching band that performs at varsity football games, band festivals, and parades. Itʼs participated in the North Jersey Band Festival for over 30 years.

Broncos on the Road PHʼs student news outlet, the Trailblazer , reported when the Marching Broncos performed at an away football game for the first time — in Dover, this Sept. 30.

(The now 6-0 Pascack Hills varsity football team won that

DORE Via Pascack Hills H.S.Music Dept., Oct.17.

away conference game against Dover by a blistering score of 350, then followed it up with an Oct. 7 drubbing of Cliffside Park, 34-0, and Bergen Tech, 42-0 —the latter two non-conference games.)

Bethany Chen, Trailblazer Life editor, had the bandʼs story Oct. 8. She noted that the marchers, led by Dore and assistant directors Abby Askaaska, Buddy Fox, Xavier Villavicencio and dance teacher Adria Warfield, performed Memories.

Dore told Chen, “Going to the away game was a new experience for the marching band, but I was really looking forward to it. Traveling to support the football team and bring some Hills pride out to Dover is what the band is all about. I was very proud of how the band performed.”

As a band director, Dore says, “It is my hope to instill in my students a lifelong appreciation for music. I am seeking to pass on the importance of music education in schools today, in the hopes that students will see the impact music has on their lives.”

Building a program

Dore told Pascack Press that when he arrived — heʼs in his sixth year at the school — he found a program “in hibernation.”

“At Hills thereʼs a lot of great athletic programs and extracurric

ulars, and [the band] had just kind of faded away. I inherited a pep band of 11 students … they were curious about what [a marching band] would look like,” and they went to work, he said.

“Over the past three years weʼve put on a halftime performance, and weʼve marched for the last three, four years. The program has really taken off, the kids have bought into it, and theyʼre excited. They love providing that element of school spirit and playing their instruments and being together Itʼs really cool,” Dore said.

He said, “Watching this program succeed through Covid and to still put on a show — that was my biggest push:ʻWe canʼt play our instruments inside, but guess what, we can out on the marching field. Letʼs go, rock and roll.ʼ”

He said the roster is in the 30a this year, and the kids had asked to perform at an away game. “And I was like, you know what? Letʼs do it. So we coordinated U-Haul trucks and buses and we went, and the kids had a great time. So I def initely envision that being a part of our schedule in the future.”

Dore said the administration provides a budget for supplies and transportation, for which he is grateful.

“As weʼve gotten the marching band program up and running theyʼve been able and very gener-

ous to match what Iʼm doing. So theyʼre going, ʻThe bandʼs growing; OK, we can try and help your budget a little bit.ʼItʼs always a tough ask, with budgets being cut in a lot of areas, but Mr. [Timothy] Wieland, the principal, has been very supportive.”

Dore credits supervisor Noemi Rodrí guez-Grimshaw for finding opportunities for the Marching Broncos to showcase their talents out in the community. He called that commitment vital, and said the kids had leapt to the challenge.

The Marching Broncos have been invited to perform at Montvaleʼs Christmas tree lighting, and they set the tone at the recent grand opening festivities, in Mont-

vale, of Party Cityʼs corporate headquarters.

Dore said, “For me, the heart of a marching band is the kids and being a family — being a unit. These kids spend so much time together and work so hard. I tell the kids all the time, ʻYou are the hardest-working kids in the school: You start working in the summer heat for eight hours a day; you work all the way through late October and early November when itʼs cold; and yeah, it might even snow. Not only are you putting a physical show on the field, with forms and movements, youʼre also playing instruments and being expressive and creating a party atmosphere.ʼ”

THE SAVVY SENIOR: Daily money managers help with financial chores

D ear Savvy Senior,

What services c an help my e lderly mom with her financial chores? My d ad always used to handle bill paying and paperwork, but he passed away last year, and mom struggles to keep on top of things. I donʼt live close enough to help her on a regular basis.

deposits, gather and organize documents for tax returns, help d ecipher medical bills, and review bank statements in order to detect potential financial abuse or fraud.

Where to Find DMMs

professional DMM in your momʼs area is through the American Association of Daily Money Managers (AADMM.com), which offers an online directory that lets you search by ZIP code.

All the pros listed there have signed the groupʼs code of ethics.

nor state governments regulate the DMM industry, so there is little oversight of these services. So before turning over your momʼs bills, make certain itʼs someone you can trust.

your mom will be paired with an account manager who will communicate and work with her over the phone, or through email, text or mail (her preference) – no computer is required.

BY JIMMILLER

—Concerned Daughter

Dear Concerned,

It sounds like your mom could use a good daily money manager (or DMM). These are financial savvy professionals that can help older adults who have d ifficulty managing their own day to day personal financial affairs.

The types of services they provide typically includes paying b ills, maintaining financial records, balancing checkbooks and negotiating with creditors. DMMs can also prepare checks for clients to sign, help older people organize bank and financial records, prepare and deliver bank

Depending on where your mom lives, DMM services may be available through private nonprofit elder assistance organizations or government agencies. These agencies often use volunt eers to provide basic DMM tasks, such as bill paying at no cost. To find out if this is available in your momʼs area contact her Area Aging Agency. Visit ElderCare.acl.gov or call 800677-1116 for contact information.

In addition to the non-profit DMMs, an increasing number of individuals and private for-profit companies have started offering DMM services for a fee. Cost for these services varies by region but it often ranges between $25 and $100 per hour. Most clients need approximately four hours of services per month, but this too varies according to the complexity of the personʼs financial situation.

The best place to look for a

Some have passed a certification exam to earn the designation of Certified Daily Money Manager.

Before hiring a daily money manager, however, get references from two or more of their clients and check them. Also, find out what they charge and what type of insurance coverage they have.

Keep in mind that neither federal

HILLSDALE

Retired

ShopRite of Hillsdale held its annual Help Bag Hunger event on Thursday, Sept. 15. At such events local celebrities and politicians help bag groceries to raise awareness and support for food insecurity right here in our community.

The store also is a drop-off for donations to the St. Andrewʼs food pantry in Westwood, which helps feed the hungry throughout the Pascack Valley.

At the event: state Sen. Holly Schepisi; Hillsdale Mayor John Ruocco; Paul Chaytt, Joe Tobin, and Peter Hard of the Hillsdale Fire Dept.; Billy Sample, retired N.Y. Yankee; and store assistant manager Jessica Thalmann.

Sample is a former outfielder who played for the Texas Rangers, New York Yankees, and Atlanta Braves in parts of nine seasons spanning 1978–1986.

One other highly rated billpaying service you should know about thatʼs specifically designed for older adults and caregivers is S ilverBills (SilverBills.com). Available nationwide, this is a secure concierge bill management service that will manage your momʼs bills and pay them on her behalf, on-time and correctly, for a flat fee of $50 per month.

If you opt for this service,

SilverBills also reviews all bills for errors and fraud and provides monthly statements showing the date, amount and manner of each payment.

Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

Sample helps bag hunger

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

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

- labor wanted, Immediate opening. Experience a plus but willing to train. Must have means of transportation. Call: 201-664-3130.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

Department Manager Borough of Westwood is seeking a qualified individual for full-time Health Department Manager. The purpose of this position is the management of the overall day-to-day operations and personnel of the Health Department to assure the successful achievement of the department’s mission and identified objectives. The manager works to promote and support town health and ensures compliance with a broad range of regulations. Ideal candidate will have 5 years of supervisory experience. Successful applicants will have shown the ability to manage a busy office or department. Ability to plan, organize and supervise various department programs. Manager works in concert with contracted Health Officer to optimize services available communitywide. The successful candidate should be comfortable with managing a budget, resolving conflict and communicating effectively. Demonstrated ability to effectively supervise office staff and their performance, build relationships and maintain critical records and files. Candidate should be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, willing to learn all state software registration programs, and actively prepare and participate in ongoing Board Meetings. Once hired new department manager must be willing to complete necessary on line training to achieve Certified Municipal Registrar (CMR) certification. Interested candidates should submit cover letter and resume via email, mbnet zer@westwoodnj.gov. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Westwood is an EOE

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS LABOR ER TEMPORARYF/T FALLHELP– HILLSDALE BOROUGH. The Borough is accepting applications for Temporary Full Time Fall Help. Duties will include but are not limited to working with a vacuum leaf loader, performing manual labor by raking, & other related duties. Must have a valid New Jersey Driver’s License.

Employment applications are available at www.hillsdalenj.org or at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ. To apply, please complete a job application from our website and submit to the DPW Superintendent at dhayes@hillsdalenj.org or you may drop off your application at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ 07642. The Borough reserves the right to interview candi dates prior to the expiration of the job posting. EOE.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

The Westwood Police Department is currently hiring for the position of part time Public Safety Telecommunicator. Applicants are not required to possess a Basic 911 Telecommunicator Certification, Emergency Medical Dispatch Certification or CPR certification, but these are preferred if the applicant possesses them. The position requires good communication skills, public contact, the ability to multi-task, basic computer familiarity and the ability to solve problems. Applicants must be able to pass a back ground investigation and drug screening test. Applications are available at Westwood Police HQ - 101 Washington Avenue Westwood, NJ 07675. You may also contact Chief Michael R. Pontillo at 201-664-7000 ext #151. The Borough of Westwood is an equal opportunity employer.

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

Caregivers seek position for evenings, weekends, overnight and live-in. Experienced, with refer ences. Fully vaccinated. Call 201-823-7923.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

DEMAREST PUBLIC SCHOOLis seeking Food Service Lunch Aides. Duties include food prep, serving and check out. Criminal background required. Hours are approx. 2.5 daily. Send resume to: RinaldiD@nvnet.org Debra Rinaldi, Demarest Board of Education, 568 Piermont Rd. Demarest, NJ 07627 or apply online applitrack: http://demarestsd.scho olwires.net Board of Education tab, then Employment. EOEAA

ShopRite of Hillsdale is at 372 Broadway. Manager is Jim Mooney. Assistant managers are Jim Callaghan and Jess Thal-

mann. Inserra Supermarkets Inc. –New Jersey Metro and Rockland County Chapter.

S SIITTUUAATTIIOON N W WAANNTTEED D

Rita M. SCULLY

Rita Margaret Scully (Boyle), 89, of Calabash, N.C. formerly of Woodcliff Lake, passed away peacefully Oct. 9, 2022 at home.

Born and raised in Manhattan, N.Y. to Bridget (Norris) and Thomas Boyle.

Preceded in death by her siblings Thomas, Mary (Mae), Martin, John (Jack) and Joseph.

She is also preceded in death by first husband Dominick Calbi, whom she married in February 1957 until he passed in 1975, and second husband, Richard Scully, whom she married in June 1982 until he passed in 2011.

Rita shared and imparted her courage, strength, and faith to her daughters, family, friends and everyone she crossed paths with. Upon retiring in 1994 after 43 years with the New York Telephone Company.

Rita was a parishioner at Our Lady Mother of the Church in Woodcliff Lake, where she was an Alter Person and baked many cakes and desserts for monthly coffee hours that she arranged to celebrate birthdays. She was a devoted supporter of Saint Jude and Saint Judeʼs Childrenʼs Research Hospital. Rita was always the first one her family called when someone needed a prayer said for them; and once someone was placed on her prayer list – they never came off.

She was an avid bowler where she was on three leagues at a time.

Rita was a blood donor at the Bergen Community Blood Bank and donated blood and platelets for many years. Rita enjoyed spending time with family which included being an assistant softball coach and Girl Scout Leader for her granddaughters.

Rita adored spending time with family, whenever asked what do you want for Christmas her response was always the same: “As long as weʼre all together, thatʼs the main thing.”

Through her 89 wonderful years of life she spent countless hours with her focus on other people and teaching them how to see the world through her positive eyes and faced each day with her selfless heart.

If you ask her kids, grandkids and great grandkids, there are some things that Rita just did better than the rest. Some of their favorites including her being the best eyeglasses cleaner, scrambled eggs maker, storyteller, side eye giver, lotto scratch partner, confidant, nursery rhyme singer, dance partner, and her independence. One of the things that will be missed the most is her laugh and her generous giving heart.

But there was nothing Rita loved more than spending time with all of them — especially going out to dinner; where if you knew her, she always looked at the desert menu first. No one could

OBITUARIES

quite ever make a raisin bread like Rita — but her family is willing to try.

Rita is survived by her three blessed and loving daughters Rita Berardo (John) Roseann Hunnewell (Donald) and Mary Calbi Bayles. Very proud grandmother (Gram, Nana) to Sara, Franchesca, Cristin, Ashley, Nadia and Nicholas. Great-grandmother (GG) to Dalton, Brittany, Carter and Amelia. Also survived by sisters-in-law JoAnne and Terry, and many nieces and nephews.

Rita always had encouraging words and was everyoneʼs biggest cheerleader If you were facing a new challenge or opportunity you would be met with Ritaʼs loving words of wisdom and one of her most famous sayings “You go knock their socks off!” and “Enjoy.”

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Saint Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital in Ritaʼs name.

Services are at Becker Funeral Home in Westwood on Oct. 16 with visiting hours 2 to 7 p.m. Funeral Mass is at Our Lady Mother of the Church in Woodcliff Lake at 10 a.m. where Rita will then be laid to rest at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah.

There will be a memorial service held in Calabash, N.C. on Nov 12.

Margaret Mary GRANA

Margaret Mary Grana (Stephens) of Emerson, formerly of Hillsdale and Westwood, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022.

Margaret (Margie, as many called her) was born in upper Manhattan, N.Y on Nov. 25, 1931 to Hugh and Ella Stephens.

She was predeceased by her loving husband, Louis (Louie) Grana, whom she married on Aug. 2, 1952; and her brothers John and Martin.

She is survived by her devoted daughter Patricia Frank, son-inlaw Gene Frank, her adored grand son Kevin, her nieces, nephews and numerous extended family and friends. and Margie graduated from Julia Richman High School, New York City, in 1948 and went to work at Metropolitan Life Insurance soon after, until she married and gave birth to her daughter Patricia.

In her later years, she worked for the Port Authority of NY & NJ for 22 years, retiring in 1990. She loved her years working in the WTC.

In her retirement she enjoyed travelling to Florida and Puerto Rico and spending time with her family. She was beautiful and kind person who did much for many

The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood, on Wednesday, Oct. 19 from

4 to 8 p.m. A Mass celebrating Margaret's life will be held at Assumption Church, Emerson, on Thursday, Oct. 20 at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Margaretʼs name to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy.

William M. BORGERSEN

William Magee Borgersen, born March 31, 2001, passed away on Oct. 6, 2022, due to a tragic shooting accident. William lived most of his life in Westwood. Following graduation from Westwood Regional High School, he pursued a career in the military and became a member of the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment stationed in Savannah, Ga. Affectionately known by friends and family as Willy, he was a kind, thoughtful, sweet, and happy soul who touched hundreds of lives throughout his twenty-one short but meaningful years here on Earth. He will forever be missed by his mother and father, Janine and Chris, and his three brothers, Matthew, Nolan, and Ian. He was the most loving and cherished grandson, nephew, cousin, friend, godson, and loyal fellow soldier. Rest peacefully, our sweet Willy Magee.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at Becker-FuneralHome.com for the Borgersen family.

Renata GUIGLIA

Renata Guiglia, 83, of Mont vale passed away peacefully on Monday, Sept. 26. Born and raised in Switzerland, Renata came the the United States in her early twenties. She was a computer analyst for Bank of America and a well known and loved crossing guard in Park Ridge, a position she held for 51 years.

Memorial visitation from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 6 with memorial service at 4 p.m. at Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, rsfhi.com.

Renata was a dedicated animal welfare supporter. In lieu of flowers please make donations in her memory to your favorite animal charity.

George CHRISTENSEN

George Christensen, 86, passed away on Monday, Oct. 10, 2022. He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y on Oct. 12, 1935.

He attended Brooklyn Technical College before enlisting in the U.S. Army and served in postwar Korea.

After his discharge, he worked at several employers before joining The Rawlplug Corporation, later known as Powers Fasteners, Inc of New Rochelle, N.Y.He was employed there for 32 years, before retiring in 1998 as vice president of purchasing.

George married Patricia nee Gavin from Jersey City in April 1961.They moved to Park Ridge in 1971 where the raised three children.

George is predeceased by his brothers, Harry and Freddy Christensen and wife, Patricia. He is survived by son Douglas and wife, Renee, of Minneapolis, Minn., son Matthew and wife, Denise, of Park Ridge, and son Peter and wife, Anne Marie, of Park Ridge; and his grandchildren, Andrew and Patricia.

George was an avid churchgoer most of his life and dedicated to Several Sources Shelters, an organization dedicated to single mothers who want to keep their babies.

In lieu of flowers, donations requested to be sent to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital in the name of Patricia and George Christensen.

Visitation 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 16 at Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, Rsfhi.com. Funeral Mass 12:30 p.m. on Monday at Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church, 2 Fremont Ave., Park Ridge. Burial to follow at Ascension Cemetery, Airmont, N.Y.

Loretta M. CARTER

Loretta M. Carter (née Apple ton), 88, of River Vale, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Edward M. Carter Sr. for 55 years.

Devoted mother of Edward M. Carter, Jr., and his wife Ellen of Parsippany, and Steven M. Carter and his wife Lisa of New Port Richey, Fla. Dear sister of the late Edward and the late John Appleton.

Cherished grandmother of Edward Michael, Brian Richard, and Richard James (R.J.) Carter Also

PASCACK VALEY

survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Loretta graduated from St. Johnʼs Cathedral High School, Paterson and attended Fairleigh Dickinson Universityʼs Edward Williams College.

She retired from American Bureau of Shipping in 1999 after a career that included Allen DuMont Labs, Federal Electric and Fairleigh Dickinson University.

She was a parishioner of Our Lady of Mercy R. C. Church, a member of the Backyard Garden Club and the River Vale Senior Friendship Club.

Visitation 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 14 at Robert Spearing Funeral Home Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, rsfhi.com. Funeral Mass 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15 at Our Lady of Mercy R. C. Church, Park Ridge. Interment to follow in Westwood Cemetery, Westwood. In lieu of flowers, please donate to DAV.org.

Kevin J. MCCABE

Kevin J. McCabe, 64, of River Vale, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022. Kevin is survived by his loving wife Carol McCabe; his children Anna and Colin; his sisters Monica Cardoza (David) and Michele MacMaster (Ted) as well as his nieces and nephews Avery, Griffin, Meghan, and Claire. He is predeceased by his parents Joe and Inge McCabe.

His family was his source of pride and joy, and he enjoyed nothing more than opening the house to whomever wanted to come. He loved a spontaneous party Holidays at the McCabe house were filled with decorations, family, friends and good food.

He was retired after a long and successful career in sales. A memorial Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, Hillsdale on Saturday, Oct. 22 at 9:30 a.m. with inurnment to follow at Westwood Cemetery in Westwood. BeckerFuneralhome.com.

WOMAN’S CLUB MEETS OCT. 24

The Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club will hold its next meeting on Monday, Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. at the Park Ridge Municipal Building.

The agenda includes a pres entation from a representative of the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation. Based in New Jersey and with offices in Midland Park, the ECF provides support and guidance for families with a child suffering from pediatric cancer. The ECF is a special project of the clubs in the New Jersey Federation of Womenʼs Clubs, who are working to raise money and promote awareness of the ECF and its service to residents of our communities.

Also to be discussed:

upcoming projects and events. The Afternoon High Tea, sponsored by the club, is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 23, at the Montvale Senior Center. The cost of $25 will be earmarked for donation to the ECF and other local charities.

Reservations for the Tea can be made until Oct. 18 by sending a check to P.O. Box 3, Park Ridge NJ 07656 or by calling either (201) 391-4947 or (201) 5739132.

The Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club welcomes all who would like to attend the upcoming meeting and to learn more about the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation and our club. For more information call Carolyn Delafrange at (201) 817-1000.

BABYSITTER CERTIFICATION

‘Art of Survival’ returns for a ninth year

The Art School at Old Church is proud to partner with the Center for Hope & Safety to present The Art of Survival. The exhibition runs to Oct. 22 at 561 Piermont Road.

The show is free to the public, Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. An artistsʼreception was held Oct. 6 at 6 p.m.

The Park Ridge Fire Prevention Bureau, aided by the GFWC Greater Pascack Valley Woman’s Club, held their annual Peter J. Harkin Babysitters Program on Oct. 3 and 10.

PARKRIDGE

The Park Ridge Fire Prevention Bureau, aided by the GFWC Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club, held their annual Peter J. Harkin Babysitters Program on Oct. 3 and 10. Approximately 60 area children ages 10 and up heard speakers from the fire department, led by Lt. Brad Moser and fire marshal John Hansen.

Park Ridge Police Detective Gerry Powers spoke to the attendees the first week. The second week, attendees interacted with presentations led by Erica Brown

from Northwest Bergen Dispatch, Josephine Higgins from the TriBoro Volunteer Ambulance Corps, and Dr. Lupo from Chestnut Ridge Pediatrics.

Participants learned babysitting safety through presentations and videos. Mayor Keith Misciagna congratulated attendees and helped bestow certification cards.

This course has been offered each fall for more than 40 years. For more information about the PRFD visit parkridgefire.com. For more information about GPVWC visit njsfwc.org, click Clubs, and find GPVWC.

The invitation reads, “The Art of Survival shines as a testament to the artistsʼhope and courage as well as the healing and restorative power of art. This program is made possible in part by a grant administered by the Bergen County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs from funds granted by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.”

Through The Art of Survival program, led by Marta Levy, Center for Hope & Safetyʼs childrenʼs program director, Bergen County survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault create visual art as a way to express the trauma of abuse.

Levy, a creative arts therapist, tells Pascack Press, “The Art of Survival program allows survivors of domestic abuse to discover their

inner creative selves while learning new skills, communicating and interacting with other survivors in a group, and offering and receiving support. The exhibit is important for raising awareness about domestic violence in our communities.”

Center for Hope & Safety is Bergen Countyʼs lone nonprofit organization dedicated solely to helping adults and children rebuild their lives beyond domestic violence.

Through its comprehensive domestic violence support services including a free hotline, emergency and transitional housing, emotional support, legal services and a diversified continuum of services focused on safety, empowerment,

and self-sufficiency, Center for Hope & Safety saves and changes lives.

Immediate help for adults and children experiencing domestic violence is available 24/7 by calling (201) 944-9600.

About The Art School at Old Church

Founded by visionary artists in 1974, The Art School at Old Church is a nonprofit, non-sectarian arts and cultural center dedicated to inspiring individuals of all ages, identities, backgrounds, and abilities. 561 Piermont Road, Demarest. For more information call (201) 767-7160 or visit tasoc.org

Founded in 1974,The Art School at Old Church is a nonprofit,non-sectarian arts and cultural center dedicated to inspiring individuals of all ages,identities,backgrounds,and abilities.

Courtesy photo