Pascack Press 11.20.23 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

Emerson • Hillsdale • Montvale • Park Ridge • River Vale • Township of Washington • Westwood • Woodcliff Lake

PA S C AC K VA L L E Y ’ S H O M E TO W N N E W S PA P E R

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 36

NOVEMBER 20, 2023

PARK RIDGE

BACK-T0-BACK BACK-TO-BACK FAREWELL Holiday TO TWO LEAGUE CHAMPS Shopping PV girls in romp, 16-3-1, with breakout players WHO

Guide

SERVED LOCAL HISTORY

See page 11

Pascack Historical Society salutes its late trustees Francesca Moskowitz, Helen Whalen

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

FORMER SWIM CLUB IS SEEN GAINING ON REFUNDS Bondholders, many waiting for years, say theyʼre finally being made whole

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Nearly two years after the township purchased the former Washington Township Swim & Recreation Club for $750,000, bondholders—many waiting far longer than that—appear to be receiving their refunds. Following the public purchase last year, township attorney Kenneth Poller said that the bondholders would need to contact the former club owners, a private notfor-profit corporation, to discuss payment on their bonds. Council President Desserie Morgan announced Nov. 8 that she was notified that former Washington Township Swim Club bondowners had received cash payments for bonds that had once been invested in the defunct swim

See FORMER on page 434

Front to back, left to right: Maddie Wu, Natalie Weissman, Ciara Dersimonian, Lidia Guerriero, Allie Polyniak, Gabby Velecela, Amanda Polyniak, Jade Dabros, Avery Stein, Ella Saxon, Celina Bussanich, Margo Perlman, Emma Sandt, Alex Lambrinos, Ava Burke, Alia Moreira, Lana Freedberg, Sarah Mastowski, Anya Dembowski, Tara Stewart, and Katelynn Park.

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS ONGRATULATIONS

the Pascack Valley High School girls soccer team, league champs once again. Many of the girls also emerged from the fray with individual accolades. History teacher and head coach Leah Jerome told Pascack

Press the girls came up strong with a 16-3-1 record, falling to NVOT in the semifinals, in Little Falls, Nov. 2. Jerome said, “They went undefeated in their league and won back-to-back league championships. They were Top 8 in the county tournament and lost in the sectional semi finals. The girls had an outstanding year!” Sarah Mastowski fired in

PVʼs lone goal of the game, though these players brought the heat relentlessly since their Sept. 7, 2-0 start against River Dell. In their wake nursing shutouts and other decisive losses were the likes of OT, Pascack Hills, Bergenfield, Tenafly, Fair Lawn, Teaneck, Demarest, Bergenfield, Paramus Catholic, Becton, and Lakeland.

Continued on page 33

Editorʼs note: We thank the nonprofit Pascack Historical Society in Park Ridge for permission to reprint these two remembrances. “In Loving Memory: Francesca M. Moskowitz” appeared in the Society membership newsletter “RELICS” in September. “A True Matriarch: Helen Whalen” is forthcoming in the December “RELICS.” The John C. Storms Museum at Leach Chapel and Ellen Berdais Hall together make up the headquarters of the Pascack Historical Society at 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge.

In Loving Memory: Francesca M. Moskowitz N A U G . 1 3 we lost a great woman in Trustee Emerita Francesca M. Moskowitz of River Vale. Francescaʼs roots in the Pascack Valley ran deep. Francesca was a proud Hillsdale girl. She often said that growing up in Hillsdale in the 1940s and 1950s was idyllic, a true heaven on earth. She graduated from

See FAREWELL on page 404

VETERANS DAY

B ck in time...

Local American Legion posts were among service groups and many others marking Veterans Day this year, backed by patriotic students and scouts. PAGE 29

Kristin Beuscher sets the table for fond memories of Pascack Grange, which for years had its headquarters on Woodcliff Avenue in agrarian Woodcliff Lake. PAGE 4

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PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR the power to strengthen our community bonds. By creating this Gratitude Tree, we aim to encourage everyone in Emerson to focus on the positive aspects of life and appreciate the simple yet meaningful moments that often go unnoticed. The Gratitude Tree is open to all residents and visitors in the area. Whether itʼs expressing gratitude for a kind gesture, a beautiful sunrise, or a supportive neighbor, everyone is encouraged to participate. Simply visit the Emerson Public Library, locate the Gratitude Tree on the window behind the checkout desk, and add your note of appreciation. Together we can grow as a community. Danielle Khiami, Debbie Paradis, and Monica Lemkin Leaders, Emerson Junior Girl appreciation within the town. Scout Troop 97898 We believe that gratitude has

Check out Emerson’s Gratitude Tree To the editor: is growing in Emerson as T Junior Girl Scout Troop 97898, in HE SPIRIT OF GRATITUDE

collaboration with the Emerson Public Library, unveils a heartwarming initiative—the Gratitude Tree. This thoughtful project invites community members to share their expressions of gratitude by leaving notes on the tree, fostering a sense of unity and

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‘River Vale voters get to vote...’ To the editor: to see that ItunityRiverto Vale voters got an oppordecide whether or not to T WAS REFRESHING

expend a quarter million dollars a year on armed guards for their three schools. Previously, the mayor and council proposed to approve this expenditure themselves until a majority had second thoughts and correctly decided that this significant decision should be put before the voters. Unfortunately, this is the way this mayor and council works as can be seen in their approval of expenditure of $600,000 for architectural plans for a new $20 million municipal complex that has not even gone before town voters for approval. Providing voters reject this complex voters will be stuck with bill for architectural services that they had no input on. Moreover, in 2018, thenmayor Jasionowski and council in approving the new quarter-million-dollar Edgewood condominium development promised that River Vale home owners would see their property taxes decrease by approximately $1,145 for the average township homeowner. Unfortunately, the town tax rate has increased by 7% over the intervening period, with more CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Representatives from the police and public works departments told the town council on Nov. 8 that moving council and court chambers to the second floor of a new DPW facility was likely the best option for expanding the police department on the current town hall footprint. Council took no action on this at the meeting, as several council members questioned the estimated project pricing, approximately $7.6 million provided earlier by architect Anthony Iovino, of Arcari Iovino Architects. The council next meets Dec. 4. Iovino has said the estimated DPW facility project at nearly $5 million, and estimated additional renovation costs to expand the police department at town hall and add council and court space to a new DPW second floor, at $2.6 million, for a total of $7.6 million. Two other police department renovation options, which were found wanting by council members and police officials, were estimated at $1.4 million for Option 1 and Option 2 was slightly over $1 million. “Option 3 is the one we believe is most viable and most preferable,” Police Capt. John Calamari told the council after describing the pros and cons of the first two design options. He said that option 3 involves taking the current council chamber and courtroom space and giv-

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District kindergarten pre-reg opens Jan. 3, 2024

A child residing in the Borough of Westwood or Township of Washington who will be 5 years old on or before Oct. 1, 2024, is eligible to enter kindergarten in September 2024. Pre-registration will open on Jan. 3, 2024. Cisit the districtʼs website to complete the online pre-registration process, review important registration procedures, and download the required checklist and forms. When visiting the district website, navigate to Menu, Families, and select Student Registration. Note, this is a pre-registration only. Students will not be considered enrolled until parent(s)/guardian(s) submit the required documentation. If you have any questions regarding the process, call (201) 664-0880 ext. 2011.

ing it to the department. “None of these are ideal but this is most preferable,” Capt. Calamari, brother of the mayor, Peter Calamari, said. The captain said it addresses the space issues “that we desperately need” and provides for all the deficiencies noted in Option 1 and Option 2, and a design for a second door to the parking lot will not be an issue with the third design. He said Option 1 only addressed the sally port, processing area and holding cell issues. It adds on to the existing building, he said. Moving the kitchen to the basement, which also serves as a break room, does not allow the officers to be near the front desk. Also no room for a record clerk, expansion for male/female lockers, and thereʼs no second door for officers to have access to the parking lot. Option 2, the captain said, is “the worst option,” as it did not call for any additional space other than the sally port, processing area and holding cells out the south side of the building, he said. He said the plan relocates the chiefʼs office and detectives to the basement, requiring the public to go down a flight of stairs to access their offices. He said there was no elevator access. Moreover, past mold issues that were remediated remain a concern, he said Police chief Richard Skinner said the costs of a police department operating elsewhere while renovations were ongoing in options 1 and 2 had not been included. Also, Capt. Calamari noted that the third option, which they preferred, could be accomplished without disrupting police operations. Skinner said a December 2022 memo from architect Anthony Iovino listed features that were

currently lacking at the township police headquarters. These included: no soft interview room or lobby room, to speak privately with crime victims, or domestic violence victims. He cited two recent instances where that deficit caused issues, plus a liability problem. He said Option 3 provides a room off the lobby, noting it was “something that we really do need.” He said other missing features included a department briefing room, where often now they must use the courtroom if it's available. He said expansion of male and womenʼs locker rooms was available under Option 3. He said reusing the council space, mentioned by councilman Steven Cascio earlier, would provide a soft interview room and training room. He said a newer office for the court on top of DPW building, including a separate quarters for the municipal judge, and a new court clerkʼs office, would also be a better arrangement. Option 3, estimated to add $2.6 million to new DPW facilityʼs estimate of $5 million, for a total $7.6 million cost, offers ground floor expansion for prisoner handling space, and police department use of council chambers space. It includes interior renovations on main floor to achieve state DOC-required spaces, ADA restrooms and clearances, minimal renovation of lower floor for police storage, and a takeover of council chambers for police department use, Councilman Tom Sears said he concluded Option 3 was the best option for the township but questioned the pricing on that option. He questioned the cost for moving a wall cited by the archi-

tect and questioned the pricing for moving walls listed by Arcari Iovino. Council president Desserie Morgan said she had more questions of a financial nature, saying she liked Option 3. She wondered whether costs were included for the police operating in new space temporarily at town hall. Mayor Calamari said the new DPW building would have to get built first and what happens here would move to the new building, and then renovations would occur at Town Hall for the police. Skinner said he would prefer to have an evidence locker where

evidence is put in the front and comes right into an evidence room. He said that would be possible in Option 3. He said an efficiency expert had previously told them the current department space is “too small for the needs right now.” He said that the evidence locker option was not a rush to get done. Skinner repeated that Option 3 would be best for the town and department in the future, given the anticipated growth in residents. Capt. Calamari said “the general consensus is that Options CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

COUNCIL/COURTROOM CAN MOVE TO DPW, POLICE RECOMMEND

B ck in time...

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

Mr. Kennedy works with students in the engineering suite. PVRHSD

Interns spotlight STEM on first stop in district travelogue PASCACK VALLEY

The Pascack Valley Regional High School District tells us that two Pascack Valley High School communication interns have launched a yearlong project to spotlight all of the departments in the district. Vin Coglianese and Drew Welsh have initiated a social media campaign using the hashtag #BuildingTheFuture “to regularly showcase the great work happening in the schools.” And they recently co-authored an article to recap their October work on the districtʼs STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) departments. The students wrote in part that

See INTERNS on page 334

inside HOLIDAY GUIDE

CLASSIFIEDS

SCHOOL

HEALTH & WELLNESS 34 HOME IMPROVEMENT 41 REAL ESTATE

SERVICES

OBITUARY

Pascack Grange got its start in Woodcliff Lake in 1904, when a significant portion of the Pascack Valley was involved in agriculture. Here, a meal in the basement of the Woodcliff Borough Hall in 1905. The table in the foreground bears a basket of bread, a bag of Nabob Mocha Java coffee, a coffee mill, and a can of Magnolia Brand condensed milk.

Gathering at the Grange Van Ripers, Demarests, Wortendykes, Tices...

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFF LAKE S WE PREPARE for our Thanksgiving travels to be with family and friends, or we ready our homes for the arrival of guests, here is a look back at one convivial meal shared in Woodcliff Lake long ago. Looking at us from the year 1905, this group was part of the Pascack Grange. The image comes from the Pascack Historical Societyʼs collection of glass plate negatives. No doubt some people reading this will remember the Grange, which had its headquarters on Woodcliff Avenue in Woodcliff Lake. The organization was active through the 1970s, and in its later years it was a social club and service organization. At one time the Pascack Grange had a vibrant volunteer force that raised money for local organizations, beautified the town, and held dinners, card parties, and socials. Although there had always been some social aspect to the group, the original Pascack Grange was different. A chapter of the national organization that promotes the interests of farmers, it got its start in Woodcliff Lake in 1904, a time when a significant portion of the Pascack Valley was still involved in agriculture. One had to be a farmer, or a farmerʼs wife or child, to join. It was a place to share concerns, discuss current events and regulations that affected farmers, and collaborate on purchases.

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING Serving Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Park Ridge, River Vale, Township of Washington, Westwood 201.664.2105 and Woodcliff Lake FAX 201.664.2109 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 335 E-MAIL US AT Westwood, N.J. 07675 pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

The original Woodcliff Borough Hall was built in 1905 on Pascack Road. It stood in the same location as the current municipal complex.

Early members of the Pascack Grange were from the areaʼs old farming families, with surnames like Van Riper, Demarest, Wortendyke, Post, and Tice. For their first 20 years the group met at the Woodcliff Lake Borough Hall, a two-story wooden building that stood on Pascack Road in the same spot as the modern municipal complex. They paid the town $75 per year (equivalent to about $2,500 today) to rent the space two Saturdays a

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

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month. Members in those days traveled to meetings by horse and buggy. At the end of 1905 the Grange members asked the borough to build sheds to shelter the horses on frigid days. In 1906 they made the request again, before the cold weather set in. The borough built the horse sheds, but they borrowed

John J. DeFina John Snyder Michael Olohan Kristin Beuscher Keith J. Harcher George F. Harcher

See GATHER on page 334

The articles and opinions printed in Pascack Press are not necessarily those of the publisher. Pascack Press is neither liable nor responsible for typographical errors. This publication contains 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.

A SECOND COMMUNITY CENTER BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

The Borough Council unanimously approved two measures on Nov. 9 that ended all borough efforts to install an artificial turf field at Centennial Field and stopped borough efforts to possibly construct a second community center at the Stonybrook Swim Club property. Both resolutions, which ended years-long efforts, followed a raucous council meeting on Oct. 10 when the borough engineer said costs could quadruple to install artificial turf on Centennial Field, and residents questioned what capital funds, or bonded funds, existed for improving and repairing fields around town.

Although the council increased the local tax levy by $500,000 in 2021 to pay for a bond downpayment, the council had not yet bonded for any field improvements, nor approved any field renovation plans. Resolution 23-278 notes that, “after review of various factors, the Governing Body has decided to cease all current activity and funding with regard to installation of turf at Centennial Field.” Resolution 23-279 states that following due consideration of the swim club for a potential community center, “The Governing Body has determined that it will take no further action for a Community Center located at Stonybrook Swim Club (and) All Borough Personnel shall cease all activity with regarding to seeking a location for a second Community Center at

Stonybrook Swim Club.” Both efforts had been raised repeatedly by council members over the last few years, with discussions starting and stopping, plus thousands of dollars likely spent on engineering and architect plans. At the Oct. 10 council meeting, council was told by its borough engineer, Colliers Engineering & Design, that installing synthetic turf on Centennial Field was

likely to cost up to four times of initial estimates $4 million to $4.5 million due to having to disturb the underlying landfill cap, regrading, meeting NJDEP standards, and improving site drainage. (See “Hillsdale public pushes for field upgrades,” Michael Olohan, Oct. 16, 2023, Pascack Press.) Almost five years ago, when council discussions to improve Centennial began, which was

plagued by poor drainage, improvements were estimated at $2.5 million. Council president Anthony DeRosa, a member of the Fields Committee, said on Nov. 9 that the committee would be meeting soon with heads of local sports associations to discuss the future of Centennial Field, as well as other recreational fields. CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

WWRSD nabs ‘high impact’ tutor grant

The Westwood Regional School District posted on Nov. 8 that Director of Elementary Education Denise Velez secured a grant of $112,650 for after hours tutoring for thirdand fourth- graders. Details will be VELEZ announced once the district secures a vendor. The district posted, “We are grateful to Mrs. Velez and her outstanding application.” Reaction on Facebook was bright and lively: • Roberta Kahn Hanlon, former school board member and

longstanding district crossing guard: “Great news.” • Jay Garcia “WWRSD parent and stakeholder” (and board member): “That is phenomenal news! Nice work, congratulations, and thank you!” • Nikki Prunella: “Wow! This is amazing! Thank you, Mrs. Velez!” • Janine Scotti: “Thatʼs great! Thank you!” • Lori Leung: “Congratulations to Mrs. Velez. This is what Westwood schools should stand behind!” The WWRSD welcomed Velez in July. She was most recently the English Language Arts supervisor in the Kinnelon School District. — John Snyder

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

COUNCIL REJECTS SYNTHETIC TURF,

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

COUNCIL’S ‘STAY IN YOUR LANE’ VS. ‘WHERE’S YOUR ANGER’ ON TRANS STUDENTS BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The Township Council on Nov. 8 passed a resolution supporting “parental rights” and requiring “parental notification of material circumstances pertaining to their children.” The vote was 3-0, with two council members recusing themselves. Voting in favor of Resolution 23-350 were council president Desserie Morgan and councilwoman Stacey Feeney (both voted out of office Nov. 7) and councilman Tom Sears. Daisy Velez and council vice president Steven Cascio recused themselves. Cascio kept his seat in the midterm election, and will be joined next year by returning fellow independents Michael DeSena and Michael Ullman. Many residents urged council members to “stay in their lane” and not get involved in education matters, saying those were properly left to the Westwood Regional School District Board of Education. Registered voters in Washington Township and Westwood rejected school board candidates campaigning on “parental rights” and more local control over school curricula such as sex education, and elected candidates expressing support for an “equitable public education for all students.”

Newcomers Heather Perrin (1,476 votes) and Lozi Azzolina (1,315 votes) bested incumbents James Parrino III (929 votes) and Irene Fenarjian (905 votes) for two seats on the Westwood Regional Board of Education. Moreover, newcomer Jorge Pertuz (1,380 votes) won out over incumbent Stacey Price (1,009 votes) for an unexpired township one-year term. Nicole Martin (1,799 votes) beat Darren DeLuca (1,148 votes) for a three-year term to represent Westwood on the board. Azzolina, Perin, Pertuz and Martin have appeared together tio appeal to the Westwood–Township area to join them as they stand together for equitable public education for all students. Parrino, DeLuca, Fenarjian and Price were campaigning with a focus on “parental rights”—the term gaining currency amid the Covid pandemic—and later bucking the New Jeresy education board on mandated curriculum updates. The four new board members will join the K-12 regional school board in January 2024. The district, which serves nearly 3,000 students, had been embroiled in so-called culture wars debates, among parents, educators, students, and even outside actors. On Nov. 8, several passionate advocates addressed the Township of Washington council, one claim-

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ing that the resolution violated Title IX, as well as others questioning the councilʼs due diligence on passing such a resolution. More than a half-dozen residents, including a Westwood resident, opposed the resolution. Morgan said she strongly supported the need for parents “to have conversations in the home” with their children. Cascio said the state should not dictate what a parent can and cannot do. He said itʼs up to local school boards, rather than the state, to make local decisions. Responding to Amara Geipel, a transgender student who opposed the resolution, Morgan said she did not like “to be painted

with the same stroke as the monsters you canʼt speak to.” Morgan added, “There are plenty (of parents) who would openly love them with open arms and help them through it and support their decision, and you take that from us because the state tells you to. Whereʼs your anger?” Morgan said, “At the end of the day, Iʼm the parent, I have the right to know. My child is under 18. I have the right to know.” Township attorney Kenneth Poller told council he had removed the word “commend” used in the draft resolution when it was found that the Westwood Regional board did not itself pass a policy that parents be notified if

a child makes a school official aware that they wish to have his/her gender reassigned. Despite pressure against a notification policy, the regional K–12 school board approved a policy in September requiring that parents be notified when children display behavior deemed potentially harmful, such as use of drugs or a drop in academic performance. However, aware of potential state legal action, the Westwood Regional Board policy said notification cannot be based on protected characteristics such as race, gender identity and sexual orientation. CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

WOODCLIFF LAKE

JEANNE MARTIN, LEADER OF VITAL MOWNJ, RETIRING

Meals on Wheels North Jersey (MOWNJ), a leading provider of meals delivery services to seniors in Northern Bergen County, announces that it will be bidding farewell to its esteemed executive director, Jeanne Martin, who will be retiring after 19 years of exceptional service. Under Martinʼs visionary leadership, MOWNJ (mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org) has grown exponentially, serving countless meals to seniors in need and making a significant impact on the community. Jeanneʼs dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others have been instrumental in the success of the organization. During Martinʼs tenure, MOWNJ has achieved numerous milestones within a constantly changing environment. Through

MARTIN

her guidance, the organization has consistently exceeded expectations, ensuring that seniors in our community receive nutritious meals and vital social interaction. “It has been an incredible privilege to serve as the executive

director of MOWNJ for the past 19 years,” Martin told Pascack Press on Nov. 15. She said, “I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated and compassionate team, serving the most deserving people in our communities.” Martinʼs expected retirement date is Aug. 1, 2024, enabling the opportunity for a successor to be identified and to enable a reasonable transition period. The Board of Trustees of MOWNJ told Pascack Press it thanks Martin for her outstanding leadership over her tenure. Contact the MOWNJ office for information on the executive director position, contributions and volunteering opportunities. Call (201) 358-0050.

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Pascack Valley election turnout bests Bergen County average BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

The top three Pascack Valley communities in terms of voting percentage on Nov. 7 were Woodcliff Lake, Park Ridge and the Township of Washington—all topping more than 40% voter turnout, according to the Bergen County Clerkʼs office. Countywide, clerk John Hoganʼs office reported that 199,614 voters out of 665,727 registered voters cast ballots in the Nov. 7 election, a 29.98% voter turnout in Bergen County. Six days after elections, Nov.

13, was the last date for mail-in ballots postmarked Nov. 7 to arrive and be counted for the General Election results. Once mail-in votes were counted, elections officials would then vet and count provisional votes, if valid and if the registered voter had not yet voted, said officials.

Woodcliff Lake Unofficial voter percentages published online, minus the final mail-in and provisional ballots, showed that Woodcliff Lake, where incumbent mayor Carlos Rendo swept to victory, bringing along running mates Joshua Stern and Julie Brodsky, 2,250 voters cast ballots out of 5,017 registered voters, for a 44.85% percentage— highest in Pascack Valley. While Woodcliff Lake had the highest Pascack Valley turnout, the borough also had the lowest number of registered voters.

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Calling all high school students who would like to participate in the boroughʼs Seventh Annual Snow Angel Volunteer Program: Be a Snow Angel and help Montvale seniors who might need an extra hand clearing snow from driveways or pathways. Youʼll earn community service hours for it. Visit montvaleboro.org, complete the registration form and waiver, and email to ngayed@montvaleboro.org or drop off at Borough Hall, attn: Nevene Gayed.

Park Ridge Placing second in voter balloting was Park Ridge with a nearly 42% turnout, or 3,051 votes cast out of 7,279 registered voters, or a 41.92% total. Two-term mayor Keith Misciagna topped challenger Lisa Falato-Lau by nearly 350 votes, and brought along two former Democratic councilmen, Robert Metzdorf and Michael Mintz, on his ticket. Township of Washington Placing third with a 40.53% voter turnout, and edging another town, was the Township of Washington, where a tight six-person council race for three open seats brought out voters. In the township, 3,118 voters cast ballots out of 7,694 registered voters. In a surprise in Township of Washington, the three-person slate of Independent candidates, led by incumbent Republican councilman Steven Cascio, with former councilmen Michael DeSena and Michael Ullman, edged by incumbent Republican Council President Desserie Morgan, and incumbent councilwoman Stacey Feeney and challenger George Toole. Westwood A tight council race in Westwood brought out 40.2% of voters, or 3,415 of 8,494 total registered voters. Incumbent Democratic councilwoman Erin Collins and Republican borough booster Lauren Letezia won the two open seats pulling in 1,788 and 1,711 votes, respectively.

Emerson In Emerson, with 5,707 registered voters, 2,165 voters went to the polls Nov. 7, for a 37.94% voter turnout with four candidates

vying for two open council seats. Incumbent Republican councilmen Michael Timmerman and Ashley Rice nabbed the two open seats with 1,187 votes, and 1,151 votes, respectively. Montvale In Montvale, where twoterm Mayor Michael Ghassali shook his challenger, Elizabeth Gloeggler, by more than 2 to 1, and Republican incumbent council members Douglas Arendacs and Theresa Cudequest doubled the vote totals of their challengers, nearly 37% of local voters cast ballots in the election. In Montvale, 2,618 voters out of 7,101 registered voters, or 36.87%, cast ballots, whether by mail, early voting, or in person on Nov. 7.

Hillsdale In last place for council voter turnout, with a little over 35% of Hillsdale voters casting ballots, Democrat Michael Sheinfield eked by incumbent Republican councilman Anthony DeRosa to become the next mayor, and will lead a council of six Republican members. On Nov. 13, Sheinfield led DeRosa 1,471 to 1,405 votes, respectively. Incumbent mayor John Ruocco, a former councilman, and newcomer Clemente Osso snagged the council seats. In total, 3,015 voters cast ballots of 8,598 registered voters, a 35.07% turnout.

River Vale Although River Vale did not have a council race this year, 2,923 of 8,616 registered voters, or 33.93%, showed up to vote on federal, state, county, and school board, plus a public question.

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Commuters could have new lot by Dec. 15 BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Under a $469,500 contract approved the Township Council approved October to hire Matina & Son of Hackensack to complete the commuter lot and drainage improvements adjacent to the new emergency services building, work

must begin within 20 days of contract execution and be completed by Dec. 15. The work represents the final piece of the puzzle in completing the project begun at the site in late 2020 to construct a joint firehouse and ambulance corps HQ on Pascack Road. Adding in the lot and drainage project brings the project total to

$6,999,204, according to town figures posted online. Its original estimate was about $5.7 million. So far, the township council has appropriated $7,049,800 for the complex, according to a project budget. (See “Mayor: Funds in drive on commuter lot,” Michael Olohan, Oct. 30, 2023, Pascack Press.) Following council approval,

SALE FALL

the Matina & Son contract was signed by Mayor Peter Calamari on Oct. 10 and by Antonio Matina on Oct. 27. The town clerk received it on Oct. 30. It was unclear what date constituted contract execution, although 20 days from Oct. 27 was Nov. 16, a likely start-up date. Should the contractor extend beyond Dec. 15, the contract includes penalties of $1,500 per day if not completed by the deadline. In December 2022, we reported the projectʼs 12th change order at the time, a $60,000 change order for the removal and disposal of asbestos from the old firehouse. At

that point, we reported the 12 change orders had added $360,525 to the buildingʼs cost. The project architect, Robbie Conley, told us then that contingency costs are generally around 10% of total project costs. Following questions about the legality of how prior change orders were approved, the prior 11 change orders were later each reapproved by formal council resolutions. Calamari ceremonially broke ground at the site Sept. 27, 2020. (See “ʻMay it protect.ʼ Shovels in for townshipʼs joint firehouse, ambulance headquarters,” John Snyder, Oct. 5, 2020, Pascack Press.)

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

WESTWOOD

Borough memorial bench program offers plum views

There is still time to place a memorial bench for a loved one in Veterans Memorial Park — at press time sites remain available at several of the verdant parkʼs pathways. According to organizers, these nine sites are the last available memorial bench locations in the park before the project reaches capacity. (There are a few coveted locations near the bandstand.) Bench program manager (and “councilman emeritus”) Peter Grefrath, Westwoodʼs Municipal Bench Donation Program began in 2011 as a way to honor family or friends in lieu of memorial trees, the planting of which are no longer permitted in Westwood parks. “The benches relay a positive

message, are sustainable, and are a benefit to the many who frequent our parks and are looking for a place to relax and take in the view and the sounds of our town. And unlike memorial trees, benches are not affected by climate, disease, or a renegade chainsaw,” Grefrath tells Pascack Press. He adds, “The Municipal Bench Program also offers memorial and commemorative benches that can be placed in any of the parks in town. There are 61 benches at the boroughʼs 10 parks and various community locations. Grefrath and Lisa Bontemps, program manager of Westwood for All Ages, are working together to install several benches as part of the

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Council:

1 and 2 are obsolete the day theyʼre built.” Skinner noted, “Our biggest problem here is surely space. Weʼve outgrown (it)...the police department was built in 1934, renovated in 2000, and when they renovated in 2000, we lost 16 square feet of space.” Administrator Mark DiCarlo said he would resend an earlier memo from Anthony Iovino on how he calculates project cost esti-

FROM PAGE 3

age-friendly initiative funded by the Henry and Marilyn Taub Foundation through Meals on Wheels North Jersey. The two are considering locations older residents might need to stop as they walk into town, as well as in McKinley Park, where many activities for older residents, such as pickleball, are held. Brochures describing the Municipal Bench Program are available in the clerkʼs office in the Municipal Center, at the Recreation Department in the Community Center, or at the Westwood website. Grefrath says, “Letʼs maintain the positive momentum and continue to grow this program. The organizers thank everyone for their continued support.”

mates. It was not clear if the council would request Iovino to attend an upcoming meeting. Two public works officials, including Supt. William Lawlor, said they supported Option 3, which involved adding council and courtroom space to a second floor on a new DPW facility. Lawlor said he would lose a little office space by Option 3 but had no issues with council use of the second floor. Councilors questioned whether the DPW was satisfied with the Option 3 design. Lawlor said “We all have to somehow work together and fit into this footprint.” He said he foresaw “minor adjustments

Give your business the attention it deserves! TO PLACE YOUR AD Call 201.664.2105 fax 201.664.2109 or e-mail us at pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

inside.” Council woman Daisy Velez questioned storage of equipment and vehicles, a longstanding issue for the DPW that now stores vehicles at the former swim club site, and Lawlor said it was “in discussions.” Lawlor said a salt shed might be needed in the future. He said as long as itʼs a secure area” he had no problem storing equipment offsite. Mayor Calamari said that “none of the options help with storage of equipment.” He said storage of DPW equipment and the building are two separate issues. Lawlor said he anticipated enough new space for a total of 15 employees, from 10 full-time employees, if needed. Iovino originally presented three options for a new DPW facility in December 2022, and he followed up with a combined DPW and WTPD option in August, after discussions on improving and expanding police department facilities.

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

After nearly a decade of onagain, off-again negotiations between township officials and owners of 450 Pascack Road, a mostly wooded 3.2 acre sliver of property between Ridgewood Boulevard East and Memorial Field, the Township Council introduced an ordinance Nov. 8 to appropriate $825,000 for the purchase of the property. Neither the mayor nor council member commented on the introduction. The ordinance will have a required public hearing on Dec. 4. Ordinance No. 23-15 appropriates $825,000 for the purchase, including the issuance of $785,000 in bonds or notes. A little over three years ago, property owner Robert Morris teamed up with a developer who

proposed a 48-unit senior living complex on the site, which was withdrawn after strong neighborhood and public opposition. Since then, the property's Pascack Road frontage has sported an Available sign. A dilapidated home, often strewn with tarps and deteriorating nearby structures, can be seen from Pascack Road. Although real estate brokers had listed the site at $2.1 million, no sale had occurred. However, dozens of residents have pleaded with council members to acquire the property over many years, including more intensely over the last three while the property has been up for sale. Mayor Peter Calamari has advocated for acquiring the property, at one point alleging it was being eyed for development. Late last year, the council discussed possibly using the Open Space Swim Club acquisition grant ($438,750) on purchasing

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

450 Pascack Road but decided against it and then held off on accepting the grant funds due to possible land use restrictions attached to accepting it. According to 2023ʼs preliminary grant recommendations made Sept. 6 by the county Open Space Trust Fund Advisory Committee, which are generally approved in December by the County Commissioners, the township received

two grants this year: a $550,000 land acquisition grant to acquire 450 Pascack Road; and a $60,111 grant for Phase I engineering, surveying and environmental testing at the 6.2-acre former township swim club, acquired by the town in April 2022. Also on Nov. 8, the council introduced Ordinance No. 23-16 that appropriates $438,750 “constituting proceeds of a grant from

the County of Bergen” for the improvement of lands at 464 Ridgewood Boulevard North, the former Washington Township Swim Club property. The township accepted the grant earlier this year and recently received the funds from the county. The ordinance dedicates the funding to upgrades at the former swim club.

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

What a gift! Clever holiday shopping strategies to save you time and money H

The holiday season is here again, which means that the time for shopping lists and gift-buying has returned as well. Shoppers long have relied on Black Friday deals to save some money and streamline shopping excursions. But now Thanksgiving Day sales and additional retail holidays like Plaid Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday have made it easier than ever to score holiday deals. The following tips can make holiday shopping more fruitful.

Know your prices Shoppers who would do well on TVʼs “The Price is Right” can save money. Itʼs important to have a general idea of what items

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matically search for and apply coupon codes on retailersʼ sites to ensure a shopper is getting the lowest price.

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The following tips can make holiday shopping more fruitful.

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cost, especially those that will be on holiday lists. Shoppers can set up price alert notifications on the gifts they plan to buy to compare prices in advance of holiday sales. This way they will have a better idea if the Black Friday/Cyber Monday “deal” is just a markdown on an exaggerated price or if itʼs a legitimate bargain.

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Utilize a shopping app or coupon aggregator Online shopping is here to stay, and one way retailers provide deals is with coupon codes. Shopping applications can help shoppers save money and time. Some, like Rakuten, offer cashback and instant discount opportunities, particularly during the holiday season. Others, like Honey, for example, are apps as well as browser extensions that will auto-

Shop ahead and pick up Be aware of retailers who offer a lower online price for merchandise than what the same item sells for in store. For example, a six-pack of socks may be $9.99 when purchased online, or $13.99 in store. If the store offers free pickup for online orders shipped to the store, then consumers can use this option to get the discount but avoid shipping fees. Plus, pickup kiosks generally are less crowded than waiting for the checkout registers. Buy now, resize later Shoppers who canʼt find their needed size or color in clothing or merchandise can buy any size or color on sale day at the discounted price, then exchange a few days later for the item they need. Think beyond the usual retailers Loweʼs, Home Depot and even pharmacies have lesserknown, but advantageous deals as well. Donʼt overlook these retailers for holiday decor or stocking stuffers. Holiday sales shopping is more budget-friendly with some simple saving strategies.

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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In the inaugural year of the Pascack Flag Football Girls League, the New York Jets of the third- and fourth-grade division emerged victorious after a nail-biter of a championship game. Molly Cooper scored the go-ahead 2-point conversion to seal the victory in a tense, defensive battle. Congrats to all participants for a successful season! Coaches: James Sutter, Scott Stern, Ben Totten. Players: Reagan Sutter, Brooke DeSantis, Audrey Guthrie, Molly Cooper, Ruhi Modi, Leah Ortiz, Mackenzie Totten, Natalia Stern; not pictured: Grace Aud, Belen Aud. For information on the league visit pascackflagfootball.com.

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

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The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood invite you to a live, dueling pianos entertainment experience with the Flying Ivories on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. at Phoenician restaurant, 284 Center Ave. Proceeds from the evening help

support Celebrate Westwood ArtsHub, a nonprofit bringing creativity through art to Westwood as well as to the Womanʼs Club of Westwood. Tickets are $75. All tickets include entertainment, buffet dinner, soft drinks, coffee, and dessert. This is a BYOB event.

Goods to Israel Defense Forces

The Flying Ivories are a professional entertainment duo hailing from the New York and New Jersey area. The evening promises a high-energy evening of entertainment where the audience becomes part of the show. Attendees will have the opportunity to make song requests across all genres and are encouraged to dance and sing along! For tickets visit westwoodwomansclub.org/events-1. Space is limited and payment is due via Venmo at time of reservation. Dueling Pianos is made possible

in part by the generous sponsorship of Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Oradell. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Donations of all sizes are welcome and tax deductible. Contact Contemporaries co-chair Jennifer Sirchio at jzsirchio@gmail.com with questions or to secure your sponsorship pledge. Established in 2023, the Contemporaries are a committee under the Womanʼs Club of Westwood, founded in 1919. One of the committeeʼs main goals is to host charitable, social, edu-

cational, and cultural events through collaborations with local businesses and other non-profits to better the greater Westwood community. For more information on the Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood, including events and membership, visit westwoodwomansclub.org or instagram.com/westwoodcontemporaries. For more on ArtsHub visit CelebrateWestwood.org.

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Annie Steinberg, founder and head of Bergen County Moms, and Naomi Weinberg of Congregation B’nai Israel in Emerson, among tables and tables filled with supplies for Israel Defense Forces soldiers.

NOV. 22

EMERSON

Members of Congregation Bʼnai Israel in Emerson — along with hundreds of shoppers and volunteers — in response to outreach from Annie Steinberg, founder of Bergen County Moms, recently purchased, sorted, and shipped items to support Israel Defense Forces in Israel. Donated items ranged from tents and sleeping bags to socks, thermals, bandages, protein bars, toothpaste and headlamps. Volunteers sorted many hundreds of items, took a count, and labeled and bagged them in everything

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Simplify your feast by slow-cooking your Thanksgiving turkey H

Food features prominently in many holiday celebrations, but perhaps no holiday is more closely associated with eating than Thanksgiving. In fact, Thanksgiving and food are so closely connected that many people lovingly refer to the holiday as “Turkey Day,” which is an homage to the popular main course that finds its way to millions of Thanksgiving dinner tables across the country each year. Side dishes abound on Thanksgiving dinner tables, but turkey still takes center stage. That reality can put some pressure on hosts tasked with preparing the meal for their family and friends. Unlike some other dishes that require a laundry list of ingredients and lots of prep work, turkey is a relatively hands-off main course. However, home cooks know a dried out turkey is not on anyoneʼs holiday wish list. Slow cooking can help to avoid such a result. This recipe for “Holiday Turkey,” courtesy Andrew Schlossʼ “Cooking Slow”

(Chronicle Books), calls for slow cooking the bird. Such an approach should result in a delicious and mouth-watering main course that satisfies anyone whoʼs anxious to sit down at the Thanksgiving dinner table this year.

Holiday Turkey

(makes 15 servings) What you need: 1 fresh turkey, about 15 pounds, preferably free-range 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 quart apple cider 2 teaspoons dried poultry seasoning Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper What to do: Remove the giblets from the turkey and discard (or save for another use). Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with salt and pepper. Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours. During that time, the surface of the turkey will become visibly dry and the skin will tighten; this encourages a nice

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crisp skin on the finished bird. Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 1 hour before you plan to start roasting. Preheat the oven to 450 F. Put the turkey on a rack set in a large, flameproof roasting pan. Drizzle the oil over the top. Roast for 1 hour. Reduce the oven temperature to 175 F. Pour the cider into the roasting pan and sprinkle the poultry seasoning in the liquid. Continue roasting until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a thigh (but not touching bone) registers to 170 F. Transfer the turkey to a carving board, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for about 15 minutes (see tip). Meanwhile, skim the fat from the surface of the liquid in the pan. Put the roasting pan over two burners and bring the pan drippings to a boil over high heat. Cook until the juices reduce and thicken slightly, enough to coat a spoon, about 10 minutes. Taste for seasoning. Carve the turkey and serve with cider pan juices. Resting tip: Slow-roasted meats need far less resting time (pretty much none) than those that are traditionally roasted. The reason for resting meat that has been roasted at a high temperature is to allow juices that have collected in the cooler center time to migrate back into

This recipe for “Holiday Turkey” calls for slow-cooking the bird. the dryer (hotter) exterior sec- juices in place, a resting period tions after it comes out of the is largely unnecessary. A brief resting time does allow the oven. Because slow-roasted meats meat to become a little firmer as are cooked evenly and a temper- it cools, making it easier to ature that keeps most of the carve.

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“A HUGE SHOUTOUT to Montvale Boy Scout Troop 334 for helping to clear and mulch Memorial Trail! It looks awesome.” That’s mayor Michael Ghassali on Nov. 14, singling out Austin Miller, George Miller, Alex Motta, Ian Goldfarb, Thomas List, and troop leadership.

Millions of individuals enjoy holiday shopping for their loved ones each year. Come the holiday season, thoughts of what to get friends and family is foremost on the minds of those who embrace the spirit of giving that is synonymous with this special time of year. Itʼs easy to overspend come the holiday shopping season. That could be even easier in an era marked by high inflation, which has affected consumers since 2022. Lingering inflation could require shoppers to be especially vigilant with their shopping budgets this holiday season. Thankfully, a few simple strategies can help shoppers stay the financial course this holiday season. • Track spending with a

banking app on your smartphone. Consumers can now track their spending in real time by downloading their bank and/or credit card app on their smartphones. A quick login can help shoppers monitor account balances to determine how much they have spent. If the budget is about to be busted, pull back the reins and cut the shopping trip short. • Establish gift value limits. No one has been immune to the effects of inflation over the last year-plus. So family members likely wonʼt have a problem establishing spending limits this year. Work together with relatives to determine a reasonable limit to spend on each gift. For example, a $50 per gift limit can ensure everyone gets a quality

DEMAREST

gift without going into debt. • Shop on retail holidays. Black Friday was once the only game in town regarding retail holidays. But consumers can take advantage of additional discount-heavy shopping days like Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday to find great deals on a wide range of items. Take retail holiday savings one step further by penciling in time to comparison shop on these popular days when retailers compete for customers. • Look for almost-new gifts. Mobile providers may market the latest model smartphone as upping the ante with new bells and whistles, but A few simple strategies can help shoppers stay the financial chances are last yearʼs model is course this holiday season. just as user-friendly at a fraction of the cost. The same can be said for alone. Shipping on small items other gadgets like wireless head- may be free at various online phones and smart TVs. Last retailers, but that likely wonʼt yearʼs models may be heavily be the case with larger items. discounted, particularly online, The cost of shipping some but just as impressive as their heavy items might be as much more expensive successors. as one-third the cost of the item • Keep shipping costs in itself. Shoppers should keep mind. The sticker price of cer- that in mind and build potential tain items, particularly large shipping costs into their holiones, is likely not the whole day budgets. story regarding how much the Itʼs easy to overspend come item will cost. the holiday season. However, Certain items, like trampo- various strategies make it easy lines for kids or a new armchair to stay within budget when for Dad, will likely cost consid- shopping for gifts for family erably more than the sticker price and friends.

49th Old Church Pottery Show & Sale Dec. 1–3

The 49th Old Church Pottery Show returns to Demarest, Dec. 1–3. The Art School at Old Church says itʼs thrilled to present its 49th Annual Pottery Show & Sale, featuring 26 renowned ceramicists from across the United States. “Last year more than 900 people attended the acclaimed three-day event, The Old Church Pottery Show. Make sure to talk with the exhibiting artists. Share stories. Ask questions. We know you will find pieces to collect,

use, and cherish.” The Art School at Old Church is at 561 Piermont Road, Demarest. For more information visit

oldchurchpotteryshow.org or call (201) 767-7160. Hours: Dec. 1, 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

VINCE CROCITTO, WWII VETERAN, JUST FINE AT 99

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

at Davidʼs Bagels on Pascack Road ebbs and flows but this morningʼs lineup is typical: WCTV-NJʼs Larry Lifreri holds comfortable court at the front tables, retirees and others ranged around him; Bob Stickel of LifeSavers Inc. and his son, James, home from college; Dennis McDine; in for coffee and hellos are Police Chief Richard Skinner and Capt. John Calamari. On the agenda: kibbitzing about election results, high school football, and old business. Yellowed newspaper clips on the wall, and photos looking on, feature the late, HE PEANUT GALLERY

luminous Vito “Pal” Trause, a war hero. This paperʼs editor ambles in from the morning chill. Lifreri, out of his chair, grabs him. “John, how ya doing; look, I got someone for you to meet, weʼre gonna have him on [air] around Thanksgiving. (This week, we got football.) Heʼs Vince Crocitto; his birthday is Nov. 11, Veterans Day! Heʼs turning 99, if you can believe that. Weʼre gonna have a party for him, some of his friends, at Bellissimo the next day. Great guy! Vince, this is John from Pascack Press!” For the next hour Iʼm sitting with Crocitto, of Coolidge Avenue, enjoying his company over bagels, cream cheese, jam, and coffee.

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Corps, 1943–1946, as a flight engineer on B-17s. “I did a lot of flying but I never went overseas. Most of my time in the service was in Florida. Miami Beach. It wasnʼt my fault,” he says. He adds that 400 fellows from his neighborhood, Dyker Heights, joined up after Pearl Harbor. His sortie had him facilitating weapons exercises, live fire with .50 cal machine guns at air-towed targets. And his airframe would shake: “Brabrabrabrabra…” When he wasnʼt flying, there was dancing—young ladies happily at hand (sure, why not, we were young)—under sway of Big Band icons. Eventually he was deployed to Amarillo, Texas, then Fort Meyers, Fla., and the service replaced his B-17 Flying Fortress with a B-24 Liberator (pilot, co-pilot, bombardier, navigator, radio operator, flight engineer, ball turret gunner, tail gunner and two waist gunners; eleven .50 cal. machine guns dealing damage). An upgrade, yes, but Crocitto preferred the B-17. “It was a good plane. I never had any problems.” And he recalls ruefully how much land in Florida he could have bought, “even at my pay. But who was thinking at my age—young guys!—I wouldʼve been a millionaire by now. Well, what the hell.” He has many more postwar stories—principally from an up-byyour-own-bootstraps career in sales—than wartime stories. Lifreri comes by, working the room, spreading cheer. After, I venture of the popular, knowledgeable TV interviewer, “Heʼs kind of like the mayor around here.”

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“Oh? I like the mayor we have,” Crocitto says, meaning Republican Peter Calamari. “He was here about three or four days ago. He stops in and talks to us.” That leads to a chat about the recent changeover in management of the surrounding Washington Town Center, and the livability of our township generally. “My big hope is they donʼt do to this town what they did in Park Ridge and Emerson. How the hell could they do that [approve outsized mixed-use redevelopment projects] for the sake of money? How can you build something like that in these nice suburban towns? Youʼre trying to make a little city of out of it? Come on.” He says he looks forward to his party at Bellissimo, which his friend Dennis McDine, who is doing very well, has set in motion. Some 40 folks are expected so far. Crocitto says of starting out on his last year as a ninety-something, “I donʼt know how I got here, but here I am. It pays to consider clean living. I quit smoking in 1959, one of the best things I ever did. Iʼve seen too many of my friends... theyʼre gone! One of my best friends, the last year of his life was horrible. Why would you want to go through that.” He adds that heʼs a life member of the American Legion and Westwood Elks, but no longer active. “Thereʼs nobody that I know. Theyʼre all gone. My uncles, my cousins, they all belonged. And friends. All gone! There was about a half a dozen of us, Elks, we used to go to lunch every Wednesday, and they liked to travel… I guess thatʼs the price you pay if you live too long.” So he fell in with the Davidʼs Bagels crowd. “I started coming, little by little, and now I know all these people. I have met so many good people here. Itʼs something else.” Crocitto moved to the township in 1959. He says his aunt and uncle lived in Westwood. “My sister and I used to come in from Brooklyn. The Red and Tan bus would drop us off right in front of their house. My uncle owned CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

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Vince Crocitto is a fixture at David’s Bagels. Credit John Snyder

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WESTWOOD Calling all Westwood residents with a sweet tooth and creative flair! Join the inaugural Celebrate Westwood Gingerbread House Contest, Dec. 11 from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Westwood Community Center. The invitation reads, “Whether youʼre a seasoned gingerbread house builder or a first-timer, we encourage you to participate. This is a fun event for the whole family, and we canʼt wait to see your creations. Get ready to bake/ assemble a kit, decorate, and compete for fun prizes!” Hereʼs how it works: at • Register CelebrateWestwood.org/Gingerbread ($5 registration fee) • Bake your gingerbread house, use a kit, or make it from cardboard—you choose (judges arenʼt tasting them) • Be creative with your decorations. • Set up your display at the

Crocitto:

Westwood Fuel Oil; my aunt was my motherʼs sister. They came originally from Hoboken. “My uncle used to walk across Broadway, into the woods where that shopping center is now, the Kmart. He would shoot pheasant. I liked it better then—it was more

FROM PAGE 22

play the night of the event. • Contestants and spectators are invited to view and vote at the Westwood Community Center from 6 to 7:30. • All entries will be posted on social media and eligible for consideration in the Internetʼs Favorite prize category (awarded the next day).

• Awards and prizes will be presented on site on Dec. 11 at 7:45 p.m. • Winning houses will be displayed at the Westwood Free Public Library Dec. 12–22. For resources, visit CelebrateWestwood.org. For more westinformation write woodartshub@gmail.com.

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room.” He met his wife, the former Elizabeth Wedekind, in Westwood, at Pine Lake. (One of her sisters had introduced them.) Sadly, he lost Betty 10 years ago this August, to dementia. She worked in personnel at Sternʼs Department Store in Paramus. “I used to bring her here. I miss her. What are you going to do. Good girl. But thatʼs the way it is, John.”

• Gingerbread houses should be made off-site in advance with only mild tweaks necessary for disThey had one child, Michael, a professional, who never married. “Heʼs been living with this one girl for the past 26, 27 years. No kids. Nothing you can do about that.” Here, Crocitto probes more about my job, and my job satisfaction. I absolutely love what I do, I say. I enjoy meeting interesting people. “Good for you. Thatʼs half the battle,” he says. We shake hands. — John Snyder

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Homemade pie makes for perfect ending to a holiday meal L

Millions of people insist no holiday meal is complete without some pie for dessert. Pie served with coffee certainly makes for a fitting end to a holiday meal, and hosts can serve any type of pie and still end up with some satisfied guests. Though pie afficionados typically have their own go-to pie, pumpkin pie is especially popular at the holiday dinner table. Hosts who want to cater to the masses can serve up the following recipe for “Pumpkin Pie” courtesy of Emily Luchettiʼs “Classic Stars Desserts” (Chronicle Books). Featuring homemade pumpkin purОe and cream, this recipe is sure to make guests happy this holiday season.

Pumpkin Pie

What you need: 3 large eggs 1/2 cups firmly packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup dark corn syrup 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree, homemade (see below) (makes 8 servings)

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1 tablespoon rum 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 prebaked 9 1/2-inch pie crust 1 recipe chantilly cream (see below)

What to do: Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and brown sugar until blended. Add the corn syrup and whisk until smooth. Whisk in the cream, pumpkin puree, rum, cinnamon, ginger, and salt until well mixed. Pour into the prebaked pie crust. Bake until the filling is set, about 30 minutes. Let cool to room temperature. Serve with the chantilly cream. Chef’s Tip: The pie may be made a day in advance, covered and refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Pumpkin Purée

What you need:

(makes 2 1/2 cups)

2 1/2 pounds sugar pumpkins 1/4 cup water

What to do: Preheat the oven to 325 F. Cut each pumpkin into sixths. Scrape out the seeds and any stringy pulp. Put the pumpkin pieces, cutside up, and the water in a baking pan and

scoop out the flesh with a spoon and purОe in a food mill or food processor. If the purОe is watery, place it in a large sautО pan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thick. The timing will

co v er depend on how the pan with aluwatery the puree is. minum foil. Let cool, cover and refrigerBake until soft when pierced with a fork, about 1 hour and 10 ate until using. minutes. Chantilly Cream Remove from the oven and, (makes 2 1/4 cups) when cool enough to handle,

What you need: 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

What to do: Put the cream, vanilla and sugar in a bowl and whip by hand with a whisk or with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks begin to form. The cream should hold its shape but still be very smooth. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Chef’s Tip: You can whip the cream an hour or two in advance, cover and refrigerIf it ate it. sits longer than that, it will start to thin out and you will need to rewhip it lightly before using. A few quick stirs with a whisk will do the trick. Hosts who want to cater to the masses can serve up the following recipe for “Pumpkin Pie” courtesy of Emily Luchetti’s “Classic Stars Desserts.”

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A person doesnʼt have to drive far or look too closely to be inspired by holiday decor come the month of December. Enthusiastic celebrants go to great lengths to express their holiday spirit, and that typically includes decorating their home exteriors. Home holiday decorations are

EMERSON

Mandile pounces with Adelphi Panthers

Gia Mandile, a 2022 graduate of Emerson Jr/Sr High and a former All-State, All-County and All-Conference soccer player for Emerson, has earned Second Team All NE 10 Conference for the Adelphi University womenʼs soccer team. In her second year as a starter for Adelphi, Gia led the Panthers in goals scored and total points and was fifth in the NE 10 Conference in total goals scored. Adelphi womenʼs soccer, No. 14 nationally, is scheduled to play in the NCAA Division 2 National Tournament.

WESTWOOD

Senior fellowship holiday luncheon Dec. 12

The Westwood Senior Fellowship Holiday Luncheon is Tuesday, Dec. 12 at Domani Ristorante Italiano, Hillsdale shopping center. $40 per person. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. To reserve your seat, call Rita at (201) 6661754. Club president Mary Cerrati says, “Happy holidays to all!”

Get the Results 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 tradition in millions of households. Though the tradition helps make this special time of year even more festive, decorating a home exterior for the holidays is not without certain safety risks. Homeowners must prioritize safety when decorating their home exteriors for the holidays. These tips can ensure the holiday season is as safe as it is special. • Never decorate alone. The buddy system should be employed when decorating a home for the holidays. No fewer than two people should decorate a home. A second person can ensure a ladder remains steady while hanging lights and can help lift potentially heavy lawn decorations, thus reducing the risk for injury. • Use the appropriate decorations and tools. The American Red Cross urges individuals to use only decorations designed for outdoor use when decorating their home exteriors. Indoor lights should never be strung outdoors, even on small spaces. In addition, the Red Cross recommends homeowners who intend to use nails or hooks to hang decorations first confirm they are insulated, which can help to avoid electrocution and reduce fire risk. • Plug decorations into the correct outlets. The energy experts at FirstEnergy note that outdoor lights and inflatable decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Older

homes may not be equipped with such outlets, particularly on their home exteriors. Replacing existing outlets with GFCIs is a quick and relatively inexpensive job that a professional electrician should be hired to handle before decorating for the holidays. • Utilize a timer for exterior lights. Lights should be not kept on overnight, which can be costly and pose a safety hazard. Utilize a timer so lights come on at night and turn off around bedtime, if not earlier. • Inspect decorations. Exterior string lights and other plug-in decorations should be inspected at the beginning of each season to ensure there are no frayed or cracked wires. Damaged wires pose a significant fire hazard, so any damaged strands should be discarded and replaced. • Pick the right day to decorate. Consult the weather forecast prior to decorating the exterior of a home or business. Work when your efforts to decorate wonʼt be compromised by wind, rain, snow, or other inclement weather. If itʼs already snowed, avoid decorating until the snow has melted, as there could be ice lingering beneath the snow. Itʼs also unsafe to work on a snow-covered roof. Decorate on a day with ample daylight and pause decorating if weather takes a sudden, unexpected turn for the worse. Consult the weather forecast prior to decorating the exterior of

a home. Pick a day when efforts to decorate wonʼ • If your not comfortable with any of the above tips, please call a professional to get the job done to ensure your safe-

ty. It can be fun to decorate a homeʼs exterior for the holiday season. But homeowners must prioritize safety and take every step necessary to reduce their risk for accident or injury.

These tips can ensure the holiday season is as safe as it is special.

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Safely decorate your home exterior this holiday season with these tips O

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

Alice Goldsmith a finalist with ‘Tuscan Hilltop’

International Guild of Realism is presents its 2023 Fall Salon Online Exhibition Oct. 20–Dec. 20. The guild tells Pascack Press that Park Ridge artist Alice Goldsmithʼs painting “Tuscan Hilltop” is a finalist for the International Guild of Realism Salon Exhibit. The painting reveals a view of a far-off villa on a hilltop overlooking an olive grove with a lush still life in the foreground. More than 625 paintings were entered. Artists from more than 20 countries are represented. The Fall Salon is live on the IGOR website showcasing 205 artworks from IGOR members. “We have this important juried exhibition listed on two major art websites, including our active IGOR website and the amazing website of American Art Collector Magazine. We invite

ALICE GOLDSMITH

P as cack Press

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

you to sit back and enjoy viewing the winning paintings and the entire exhibition,” the guild says. (Visit realismguild.com and americanartcollector.com. ) The International Guild of

Realism's primary mission is to advance realism in fine art through museum exhibitions, art gallery shows, workshops and education programs conducted by their members, marketing support, and internet exposure. Goldsmith was educated at University of the Arts in Philadelphia, and received two scholarships to study in Italy. She also studied at the Art Students League of New York City as a pupil of internationally

known painter Harvey Dinnerstein. Goldsmith has exhibited her work at numerous galleries nationally. She has also worked many years in pharmaceutical advertising and has recently turned her attention to painting full time. Goldstein says on her website, alicegoldsmith.com, “My passion for painting began when I was 3 years old and hasn't wavered since. Whether it was poring over books and copying the work of the masters like Michelangelo, Velasquez, Degas, or traveling through the museums of Europe, or even imitating the art of DC Comics, I found my inspiration everywhere. And though Iʼve tackled many styles and subject matter, portrait painting was my true vocation. The figure in painting is simply the most beautiful and inspirational for me.” Her portrait work is featured at PortraitArtist.com’s site “A Stroke of Genius.” She won the Betty Kaytes Memorial Floral award at the Ridgewood Art Institute 2022 Open Juried Show. She can be found on Instagram @Goldsmith 8463.

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PASCACK VALLEY

PVRHSD

The Pascack Valley Regional Gymnastics Team swept the League B Championship, competing against Sparta, Wayne Valley, West Milford, Academy of Holy Angels, Tenafly, Clifton, and Passaic Valley to clinch the title. Congratulations to the team, left to right Left to right: Coach Jamie Rossig, Meghan Greve, Angelina Miklashevskiy, Izzy Saume, Hope Gasperino, Courtney Greve, Kiera Jennings, and Sara Mojica. Their record was 8–1, and their league record was 6-0. According to first-year coach Jamie Rossig, the girls, freshman to junior grades, triumphed “because of their hard work and dedication.”

HILLSDALE Hillsdale recognized all those who served at the annual Veterans Day ceremony held by American Legion Post 162 at the memorial in Veterans Park. The service started with the pledge of allegiance led by local Girl Scouts, Daisies, and Cub Scouts. Commander Doug Frank spoke about the need to provide better support for those who have served suffered and physical or mental injuries. He also noted that only about 6% of Americans are veterans and the number of veterans is declining. Special mention was made that 101-year-old decorated WWII veteran and Post 162 member Guido Borella had passed away earlier that morning. Past commander Zoltán Horváth spoke about the Global War on Terror. He noted that his son is serving overseas on active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps. At the end of the ceremony a flag folding was conducted with Cub Scout Pack 331, which the Post sponsors. Moreover, American Legion Post 162 of Hillsdale, Old Tappan and Woodcliff Lake participated in Veterans Day programs at two local high schools. On Monday, Nov. 6, members spent the morning meeting in small groups with students as part of their social studies programs. Discussions and questions led to

a great exchange on their experiences when serving. Veterans from the Korean, Vietnam and Gulf wars participated. The program was put together by history teacher Leah Jerome and supervisor Joe Orlak, who is a veteran and member of Post 162. On Wednesday, Nov. 8 the group was invited to Northern Valley Old Tappan High School by their new principal, Dr. Timothy Gouraige. The ceremony included much of the student body and was held at the flagpole in front of the school. The veterans said they were thankful for the invitation and the appreciation they received from all attendees.

American Legion Post 162 of Hillsdale, Old Tappan, and Woodcliff Lake participates in 2023 Veterans Day programs in Hillsdale, with students and scouts, and at NV—Old Tappan. Courtesy photos

PASCACK VALLEY

Interfaith Thanksgiving Service Nov. 19

The 55th Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Worship service, sponsored by the Upper Pascack Valley Clergy Council, is set for Sunday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, Woodcliff Lake. Clergy and leaders from many faith communities throughout the Pascack Valley will lead the service. “We will listen to a joint choir made up of several congregations in our community as well as sing songs rooted in love, peace, and home. And the offerings from the service will be given to non-violent dialogue organizations working toward peace, with Israeli and Palestinian participants.”

Since 1968, this service has been a tradition in the Upper Pascack Valley as we gather together to give thanks for the friendships we share and our partnership as faith-filled people living in Northern New Jersey. The invitation adds, “Canʼt make it to the building? Livestream worship on our home page, Facebook, and YouTube. Videos will stay uploaded to Facebook and YouTube so you can view at a later time as well. If you would like to listen via conference call, dial (646) 558-8656, enter the meeting id: 827 672 730, ignore the participant id by hitting #, and then enter the password 195901.”

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Call For Pick-Up or Dine In! 57 KINDERKAMACK RD. WESTWOOD, NJ miflorlatincafe.com • (201) 497-3644

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Giulio’s Restaurant: Perfect for holiday parties

“At Giulioʼs, we only use the freshest ingredients in our homemade dishes. Featuring contemporary Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, we strive to please every palate.” Owner Beni Qosja opened Giulioʼs Restaurant in 2022. Housed in a beautiful, romantic, Queen Anne Victorian in Historic Tappan, N.Y., just minutes from Bergen County, Giulioʼs Restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine.

guests to enjoy a fine glass of wine and a delicious meal. Beni brings more than 25 years of culinary experience to Giulioʼs Restaurant. Formerly of Vicolo of Old Tappan, Il Vicolo of Livingston and current owner of Limoncello in Waldwick, the years of world class experience and passion for culinary creations is evident in each and every of his signature dishes.

Built in 1880 by the Smith family, the rooms are adorned with carved woodwork and large beveled glass windows that make you feel like you stepped into another era. The warm and inviting fireplaces in the Main Dining Room and Oak Room beckon Appetizers as works of art.

Yes, please: Try the yellowfin tuna at Giulio’s Restaurant. Try everything!

MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

Join our ever growing sales team as as Sales Associate for the Pascack Press, Northern Valley Press North and South and near future publications. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 201-664-2105 OR SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net

Giulioʼs Restaurant creates contemporary dishes with only the finest and freshest ingredients. Visit for a drink in the full-service bar, a casual meal by the fireplace, or to celebrate your life's most memorable events in one of the private dining rooms. Formerly Giulioʼs of Tappan, the new Giulioʼs Restaurant offers guests a fresh experience with an updated décor and menu in a warm, romantic setting. When you go… Giulioʼs Restaurant 154 Washington Street Tappan, N.Y. 845-359-3657 See website for hours: www.giuliosrestaurant.com giuliosrestaurant@gmail.com

Destination dining: Giulio’s Restaurant, 154 Washington St., Tappan, N.Y.

Private partyrooms available for parties of 15-95 people at Giulio’s Restaurant,Tappan N.Y.

Giulio’s Restaurant formerly Owner of Vicolo’s in Old Tappan

Upscale Italian Cuisine At Affordable Prices!

Now Acceptin Reservations g F Thanksgiving or ! Seatings St art At 1PM

An ideal spot for holiday parties, anniversaries, outdoor dining, birthdays, graduation and bridal parties! OPEN 7 DAYS LUNCH & DINNER • 154 WASHINGTON STREET, TAPPAN, NY • 845-359-3657 • www.giuliosrestaurant.com

RIVER VALE

New Yearʼs celebration by the Jersey Dreamers at the Brownstone in Paterson on Dec. 30. Cost is $65 for members and $68 for others. For information and reservations call Hilda at (201) 2655257.

Tuesday Painters exhibition

Via Janet Baker

Tuesday Painters is a group of fellow artists who gather every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1p.m. at Trinity Church in Allendale. They tell Pascack Press, “We paint from a live model one Tuesday per month. We work in many different media and share ideas, supplies and general camaraderie. All are welcome and encouraged to join. Itʼs fun!” The group is showing at Township of Washington Public Library, 144 Woodfield Road, throughout November.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

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Pastry Shop

Now Taking Orders Until Monday,November 20! Italian Pastries •Cookies Biscuits • Cakes Coffee & Espresso

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Volunteer for township Tree Decorating Committee

Van Saun County Park in Paramus transforms into Winter Wonderland beginning November 24, and River Valeʼs Department of Social & Cultural Affairs is seeking residents to join in decorating a tree in the town tree decorating contest. The town is looking for holiday decorating enthusiasts, those who have a lot of River Vale spirit, “or who might even know a thing or two about making outside

decorations and/or working with twinkle lights, etc.” Committee service consists of attending a few planning meetings prior to Nov. 27, perhaps some decoration prep at home on your own time (if you volunteer to do so), and going to the park Nov. 27 to Dec. 1 to decorate before

dusk.” The town says, “We are decorating a tree to represent the spirit of River Vale and try for a free Town Day for our community at the rink during open skate season in January and February. Email culturalaffairs2@rivervalenj.org by Sunday, Nov. 12.”

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY IN THE PASCACK PRESS.

PASCACK VALLEY

‘Dining for $$$’ aids Pascack Mental Health Center

Enjoy a good meal and support the Pascack Mental Health Center! “Dining for $$$” will be held at Daveyʼs Irish Pub & Restaurant on Monday, Dec. 4 through Wednesday, Dec. 6. Daveyʼs will donate 20% of your bill on these days to the Pascack Mental Health Center, 114 Kinderkamack Road in Park Ridge, each time you dine in, whether for lunch or for dinner. Daveyʼs, on Kinderkamack Road and Grand Avenue in Montvale, a great family-owned restaurant and Irish pub, has been in business for nearly 50 years. It opens at 11:30 a.m. Dining for $$$ coupons are available on the Pascack Mental Health Centerʼs website, pascackmentalhealthcenter.com. A coupon must be presented before the bill is paid. For more information, call Lauretta Miller at (201) 6187881.

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NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

RVPD hosts seniors’ holiday luncheon

The River Vale Police Department hosts a holiday luncheon for the River Vale Senior Friendship Club on Wednesday, Dec. 13. This is a members-only function. Doors open at noon. Seats remaib for the early

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Letters: H

increases certainly to come if the new municipal complex is approved? It is about time that the mayor and council honor their original commitment to promised tax relief for fiscally challenged taxpayers and to seek taxpayer approval for major new expenditures. Joseph A. Gould Jr. River Vale

FROM PAGE 2

Thanks for celebrating local history To the editor: thanks Iboardand gratitude to the volunteers, members, and president EXTEND MY SINCERE

Kristin Beuscher for the enriching experience during my recent visit to the Pascack Historical Society museum on their open house celebrating the 150th anniversary of Leach Chapel on Sunday, Nov. 12. The exhibits were captivating, and the knowledgeable staff of volunteers added depth to my understanding of how the 1873 chapel became the home of the Society. Thank you for preserving and sharing such valuable cultural treasures and for keeping the local past alive for future generations. Nancy Moskowitz River Vale 5Editorʼs note: The John C. Storms Museum at Leach Chapel and Ellen Berdais Hall make up the headquarters of the Pascack Historical Society at 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge. For more information visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org.

RVPD is WESTWOOD A-OK with Knights’ toy local fam drive Dec. 2 To the editor: to express our gratitude to memW at Five Dimes bers of River Vale PoliceallDepart-

The St. Thomas More Knights of Columbus Council 2188 Westwood/Hillsdale is conducting a Christmas Toy Drive for Tomorrowʼs Children outside of the Five Dimes Brewery beginning at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2 during Westwood Home for the Holidays. “Please donate a new, unwrapped toy (no stuffed animals) to help make Christmas magical for some special children.”

E ARE WRITING

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Vale police force should be acknowledged for providing so many essential services that keep our community safe and the finest town we are lucky enough to reside in. We should all thank them for their dedication to the services they provide. They are all heroes. Robert and Susan Warmflash River Vale

Thoughts on the election

Hillsdale: To the editor:

Resident Douglas Bagwell said that all recreational fields in town should be evaluated by the Fields Committee, and also suggested officials explore a natural turf field, or lawn, at Centennial due to the increased costs to install synthetic turf there. He suggested hiring a natural turf expert and DeRosa noted one of the borough engineers teaches turf courses at Rutgers University. Scores of residents appeared

FROM PAGE 5

Reso: WT

ment for their professionalism and devotion to caring for all residents of our community. Recently we have had a number of occasions that required assistance. We called the police station and within minutes two officers were at the front door to provide the nec- FROM PAGE 6 essary help we needed. They were Resolution Urges caring, considerate, gentle, and Transgender Notification compassionate while rendering The resolution notes that the the help we required. council “strongly recommends All members of the River that the Westwood Regional Board of Education create and direct the implementation of a policy to immediately notify parents that their child asserts that he/she identities as a gender different than the one on the childʼs official records” and that the council

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T G

HE POST-ELECTION

perspective from Montvale shows that victorious incumbents have walled off “liberals” from the high chairs in borough hall. The defeated can definitely expect more “open for business” commentary from the mayoral seat, and maybe additional religiously coded communications on the town message board with no expansion of public forums for future local candidates. Around the town, around the county, around the state and around the country, fascination with labels and letters has intoxicated all of government.

surprised at the Oct. 10 council meeting when council revealed that no bonds had been purchased, nor money put aside, after the council approved a $500,000 annual tax increase in 2021 as a downpayment on a possible $10 million bond for Centennial Field recreational improvements, a second community center, and floodproofing efforts at the DPW facility. Mayor John Ruocco, who is returning to council next year, has repeatedly called a second community center, recently estimated at $3.5 million, “a luxury we cannot afford” while five council members (excluding Zoltán

“stands in protest to the Stateʼs Transgender Guidance For School Districts and encourages the implementation of pro-family and proparental rights policies.” During the vote on Resolution 23-350, Council member Steven Cascio, who initially raised the concerns, and councilwoman Daisy Velez, both recused themselves. Initially, both voted to abstain due to a fear of repercussions on jobs they each held in education. However, when Poller noted that under the Faulkner form of government, an abstention is counted as a vote with the majority. Under Pollerʼs advice, both Cascio

But the glare of the spotlight on MAGA has faded in the footlights on other alphabet soup: DOJ, FBI, ABA, SPLC, UAW, WGA, SAG-AFTRA, NEA, AFT and many more. And many more to come as individuals find their personal strength and power in places that have been overlooked for too long. Kurt F. Kron Montvale ITʼS YOUR TURN! See our Letters guidelines on Page 2 and sound off! Weʼre the Pascack Valleyʼs hometown newspaper.

Horváth) have said the community wanted a second center. As part of the borough's approved highdensity 256-unit Patterson Street Redevelopment project, a 5,000square-foot community center is being built and provided free as part of the approved project. Initially, the second community center was to be used for senior activities, though many seniors said it was not needed at a public meeting about two years ago. However, the council majority said it was always their plan to provide approximately 10,000 square feet of community space, which was why a second center was needed.

and Velez decided to then recuse themselves from voting. More than four hours into the meeting, at nearly 11:25 p.m. a vote was taken on the resolution. Cascio said he “felt strongly” for the resolution but because he is a school employee, he would abstain from the resolution. He officially voted to recuse himself from the vote. Casting her vote, Velez said she preferred to focus on “council matters” and noted that parents need to be able to teach their children to have “tough conversations” on difficult issues such as gender identity.

they sat down with supervisors Dr. Mark Russo and Ms. Megan Graziano to learn more about their departments. They said, :In the Science & Technology Education departments this year, Supervisor Ms. Megan Graziano spoke about multiple new initiatives that will be going on throughout the school year. First, she shared about our new partnership with KidWind, a company that helps students investigate the science and technology of renewable energy sources like wind and solar energy. “Ms. Graziano was also excited to discuss the upcoming STEM League competition. Led by Technology Education teachers Mr. Kennedy (Pascack Valley) and Mr. Ostrowski (Pascack Hills), the competition provides students an opportunity to put their skills to the test with a ʻreal-worldʼ-style challenge. This yearʼs competition will be hosted at Pascack Valley this spring. “Ms. Graziano also shared with us the great working being done in our Research in Molecular Genetics courses. These classes conduct many different research projects and investigations. Within the Science department there are also multiple courses which offer dual enrollment programs such as our SUPA Forensic Science class where we partner with Syracuse

high schools at grade level as it relates to Mathematics will take Geometry their freshman year, Algebra I their Sophomore year, and Algebra II with Trigonometry their Junior year. In addition to this sequencing change, one of the math departments biggest focuses this year is on how we can create a new perception and crush the stereotypes of the typical math class. “Throughout our first month,

FROM PAGE 4

PVRHSD students huddle around a lab table in Dr. Edelberg's Research in Molecular Genetics class, experimenting with DNA. University, and our Honors Engineering Design (I and II) class which partners with the University of Texas. “Department Supervisor Dr. Mark Russo shared details about the Mathematics and Computer Science departments and what the PVRHSD community should be looking forward to the most. “To start, there are several new

PV: Champions Giving PVʼs hard-charging girls trouble this outing: Wayne Hills and, in the quarterfinal round, Immaulate Heart. Assistant coaches are Ken DelSanto and Isabella Bussanich. • First Team All County: Tara Stewart and Amanda Polyniak. • Third Team All County:

FROM PAGE 1

Gather:

opportunities in Computer Science courses, teaching students new perspectives of problem solving and FROM PAGE 4 providing guidance on how they can relate their focuses to the scien- money from the Grange to do it. When the time came to pay tific and mathematical world. After several years of research the money back, the borough covand planning, Dr. Russo was ered it by raising the hall rental fee. As the 20th century wore on, pleased to share how the sequence of Algebra and Geometry has changed. Students entering the

Allie Polyniak • First Team All League: Tara Stewart, Amanda Polyniak, Allie Polyniak, Sarah Mastowski, Celina Bussanich • Second Team All League: Anya Dembowski, Maddie Wu, Alex Lambrinos • Honorable Mention All League: Katelynn Park.

we have had many opportunities to learn more about STEM in our district, speaking with and seeing faculty and students in class. We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to showing the best parts of these two amazing departments! “Keep an eye out on our Social Media platforms as we enter November and will be covering our Business classes and Internship Program.”

and the number of farmers in the Pascack Valley steadily decreased, the group opened its membership rolls to anyone interested. Still, by the early 1970s there were only 15 members remaining. The Pascack Grange eventually disbanded. . Kristin Beuscher is president of Pascack Historical Society.

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Interns:

Sc h ool News

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

Announcements?

Let us help announce your achievements. Send your news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

Happy Thanksgiving!

Dr. Jennifer Chin, DMD

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RIVER VALE EYECARE SEES THE BIG PICTURE WITH RETINA SCAN

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. One of the structures of the eye that can be affected by diabetes is the retina. Diabetic retinopathy affects over 9.5 million people in the United States with nearly 2 million of those living with vision loss. The retina (in the back of the eye) is the only place in the body where blood vessels can be seen directly. This means that in addition to eye conditions, signs of other diseases such as stroke, heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes can also be seen in the retina. Early signs of these conditions can show on your retina long before you notice any changes to your vision or feel pain. While eye exams generally include a look at the front of the eye to evaluate health and prescription changes, a thorough screening of the retina is critical to verify that your eye is healthy. What is an optomap image? Getting an Optomap image is fast, painless, and comfortable. Noth-

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RIVER VALE

ing touches your eye at any time. It is suitable for the whole family. To have the exam, you simply look into the device one eye at a time (like looking through a keyhole) and you will see a flash of light to let you know the image of your retina has been taken. The image capture takes less than a half-second and they are available immediately for you to see your own retina. You see exactly what your eye care practitioner sees—even in a 3D animation. Early detection means success-

ful treatments can be administered and reduces the risk to your sight and health. Call or text our office to request an eye examination with Optos Retinal Imaging at (201) 6645596. Dr. Robin Semegran Optometric Physician 688 Westwood Ave. River Vale 201-664-5596 info@rivervaleeyecare

STEP UP FOR BOROUGH’S GREEN TEAM, BOARD OF HEALTH

Would you like to join the Park Ridge Green Team? Here's your chance to contribute your time and talent to helping improve the local environment. The Park Ridge Green Team is dedicated to “making our part of the world more environmentally responsible through education, engagement, partnerships, and action. Write green-

team@parkridgeboro.com. Meanwhile, the Park Ridge Board of Health seeks a new member with experience in the food industry or public health. The board is responsible for the development of public health policies in accordance with state policies and in response to current health risks. The board meets on the third Thursday

of the month, under the Sunshine Law, as an open public meeting. The public is encouraged to attend. A board of health is not a health department. Provision of mandated public health services is through a contract with a health department under the administrative direction of a licensed Health Officer.

DR. KAPLAN: Change it up for a healthier mind and body Many people are getting sick now. We have to learn how to boost our immune systems so we are not susceptible to the flu, Covid, RSV, pneumonia, or bronchitis. DR. ERIC KAPLAN, Besides healthy KAPLAN BRAIN eating, exercising, & BODY and reducing emotional stress, the three most important habits you can take on aggressively due to this “flu season” is washing your hands frequently, stopping touching your face, and increasing your vitamin D levels. It seems the people that have the worst outcome after contraction of the flu or Covid-19 are those with heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and vitamin D deficiency. Also after contraction of Covid19, lots of people (called the long haulers), are getting “brain fog” which seems very similar to patients who have had “chemo brain” after receiving cancer treatments of chemotherapy and radiation. Many of these people are losing their memory, focus, motivation, and energy. There are many ways to help the long haulers who are suffering from brain based issues even after they have recovered from Covid. For these people, having sessions in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber has seemed to decrease their neurological symptoms. As a holiday gift to the community, for people who have never done it, we are offering one FREE hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy (normally $175) to the first seven people that call or text 646-221-6738 to help with your brain, nerves, and energy. Another great tool that may help people's brains get back to normal is called a qEEG brain mapping that measures different brain waves to let you know what areas of the brain are not functioning at optimal levels and how that would account for symptoms you are feeling. Based on the evaluations, the brain mapping will inform you of what therapy (neurofeedback, functional neurology, HBOT, cold laser, physical therapy, etc) you would need to improve the areas of the brain that are not working properly. It does all this without medications, surgeries, radiation or side effects. If you are interested in getting a brain mapping with the qEEG, you can get this done at my Emerson office for $21 (normally $500) if you mention this article. This offer is only good for the first seven people that call or text (646) 221-6738 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com. There are many at home activities that you can perform if you are suffering from these brain based issues. One thing you can do is to eat with chopsticks. You will have to really use your frontal cortex which helps with working memory. You can also start brushing your teeth or hair with your nondominant hand to make the brain work a little harder. Challenge your brain with games like chess, checkers, board games, or cards. Walk or bike to work

or drive a new route home. Learn a musical instrument, play a new sport, learn a foreign language, or take dancing lessons. It really helps if you can do a stimulating activity that is also a physical exercise as well. Other ideas include drawing a map from memory. You can also cook a new healthy cuisine because this stimulates the brain by using different senses such as smell, sight, taste, touch, and sound. One of my favorite brain exercises is to do chores with your eyes closed. This really helps to enhance other neural pathways, but please make sure you are always taking the proper safety precautions if you try this at home. Connect with other people. Isolation in the home is very bad for your brain. Start by participating in Zoom meetings, educational classes, and support groups. Be more social. Call an old friend to make plans (as long as you are not sick). Spend quality time with your family. Practice mindfulness. For example, when you eat, enjoy each bite, savor different flavors, and be in the moment rather than reading or watching TV while you eat. Vary your surroundings such as listening to different music, using different lighting, having different backgrounds, and being in different locations. Travel frequently to new places and meet new people. Always get a good night's rest to really improve brain function. The hours before midnight are the most important hours. It is better to go to bed early and wake up early rather than go to bed late and wake up late. An easy ways to improve memory and focus is to take lots of breaks. Your brain is typically only capable of remembering three concepts or facts at a time. Therefore, to maximize your brain function, if, after 20 minutes of reading or studying a subject, you

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learned three big concepts, it is time to take a break. Go for a quick walk, have a snack, drink some water, do some push ups, or partake in some breathing exercises. After your break, go back to your studies, and then your brain will now be able to memorize three more concepts. The brain loves to learn new things, and loves to be challenged. Stop relying on your cell phone and the internet, and start using your brain more to improve your memory and focus. If you rely on your smart devices too much, you will end up with abnormal brain function, or “digital dementia.” The brain needs oxygen, healthy food, and the proper activation to function better, feel better and

Instagram and Facebook at “Kaplan live better. To learn ways to improve your Brain and Body.” Lastly, please join our loyal listenmemory and focus by using a natural process called neuroplasticity, you can ers and tune in to my two radio shows call (201) 261-2150, text (646) 221- called “Boost Your Brain Power with 6738, or email info@kaplanbrainand- Dr. Eric Kaplan. The first show is every body.com and set up a free 10 minute Saturday at 8 a.m. on 970 AM the consult to ask me any health questions Answer and the second show is on you may have. We offer functional Saturday at 2 p.m. on 710 AM WOR. If you are interested in learning neurology, cold laser, HBOT, neurofeedback, vestibular rehab, physical the best ways to stay healthy without therapy, postural therapy, and many drugs or surgeries, this is the show for you. We talk about how not to just treat other services. You can learn more about the symptoms, but how to get to the root brain and neurology by subscribing to cause of the health problems and heal my YouTube Channel at Kaplan Brain from within. At Kaplan Brain & Body, we and Body or purchase my book on Amazon, “Boost Your Brain Power: A believe in creating health and wellguide to improving your memory and being using a natural, holistic, and intefocus” by Dr. Eric Kaplan. If you are grative approach with no risky treaton social media, please follow us on ments and harmful medications.

Happy Holidays!

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

THE SAVVY SENIOR: Don’t Believe Misleading Medicare Advantage Ads Dear Savvy Senior, Iʼm enrolled in original Medicare but have been thinking about switching to a Medicare BY JIM MILLER Advantage plan during the open enrollment period. Many of the Medicare Advantage ads Iʼve seen offer lots of benefits beyond what traditional Medicare offers and no premiums. Your monthly thoughts? — Considering a Switch Dear Considering, Be very leery of the Medi-

care Advantage ads on TV, radio, social media and that come in the mail. While many of these ads may tout free vision, hearing, dental and other benefits with zero monthly premiums, they arenʼt always what they claim to be. Advantage Basics Medicare Advantage or MA plans (also known as Medicare Part C) are government approved health plans sold by private insurance companies that you can choose in place of original Medicare. The vast majority of Advantage plans are managedcare policies such as HMOs or PPOs that require you to get your care within a network of

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doctors in a geographic area. You can sign up for one of them during open-enrollment, Oct. 15–Dec. 7. MA plans have exploded in popularity in recent years as insurers have flooded the airways with advertisements, often by celebrity pitchmen, that promote low-cost options with lots of extra benefits. But be aware that the Federal government has deemed many claims in MA ads fraudulent and misleading. Some ads imply that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services endorses or prefers a specific plan. Others promise more cost savings than you really get. And if you choose the wrong plan, your doctor may not be a member of that planʼs network, or you may end up paying out-of-pocket for medically necessary care. This past September, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services began cracking down on these ads, but you still need to practice self-defense. Here are some tips to help you make a good decision. • Cover your needs: When evaluating MA plans, make sure the oneʼs youʼre considering

cover the doctors you like and the health care facilities you normally go to. Also, make sure all of the prescription medications you take are on the drug planʼs formulary. To help you compare plans, a good first step is to call the office managers of the doctors you use and find out which Advantage plans they accept, and which ones they recommend. Then go to the Medicare Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov/plan-compare to compare plans in your area. • Understand the details: Some MA plans promote no monthly premiums, but the reality is that you are still responsible for your original Medicare costs including your Part B premium and deductibles and copays for covered services. Moreover, you may have to pay more out-of-pocket if you see a doctor outside the network. Also, if the plan is an HMO, it generally doesnʼt cover nonemergency care out of network, so an individual may be responsible for full costs. A PPO on the other hand, allows people to go out of network, but they generally have to pay more to do so.

• Do some digging: Many MA plans tout free vision, hearing and dental benefits that are not covered by traditional Medicare, but these benefits are often limited. For example, a plan that offers free dental coverage may cover only cleanings and x-rays. Extensive procedures such as root canals or caps may not be covered, or the plan may limit the dollar amount it pays. Find out the coverage details so youʼre not surprised later. • Get help: Reach out to your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at ShipHelp.org or call 877-839-2775. These are nonprofit programs that provide unbiased one-on-one Medicare counseling and assistance. You can also report any misleading MA claims to the Senior Medicare Patrol Resource Center at SMPResource.org or by calling 800447-8477. 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.

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

CONSIDER THESE THREE SUGGESTIONS IF YOU INHERIT A TRUST

David “Chico” Esparza, Senior Fiduciary Advisory Specialist with Wells Fargo Private Bank, remembers meeting two clients, a ERIC KOHLMEIER brother and sister whose parents had passed away. “Unfortunately, their parents had not discussed their estate plans with the adult children. When the siblings learned they were

the beneficiaries of a sizable trust,” Esparza recalls, “they had no idea what to do next.” The brother and sister had many questions. Who handles the estate? What are the terms of the trust? And what should their next steps be? “Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., was the trustee, so we explained the timeline and process for settling the trust estate,” Esparza says. “It helped to ease their minds to know that professionals would be handling everything.”

As Esparzaʼs clients found, stepping into the role of beneficiary can feel a bit like stepping into the unknown. Here, Esparza offers three suggestions to ease the process.

Build an advisory team A good first step for the beneficiary is to meet with the trustee who is tasked with executing the terms of the trust. It may be an individual, such as a CPA or lawyer, family member, or a corporate trustee. “There will be a lot of questions,

so itʼs important to establish a communication plan and a general timeframe for how long it will take to settle the estate,” Esparza says. In some instances, once the estate is settled, a new trust is funded with the beneficiaryʼs share of the estate; in other cases, assets will be distributed outright to the beneficiary. If the assets will be retained in trust, the trustee typically collaborates with an investment advisor to help manage the assets according to the terms of the trust. “The trustee and investment advisor will create a plan that is based on the terms of the trust and considers the needs of the beneficiary,” Esparza says. “Beneficiaries also should consider seeking the guidance of a tax consultant regarding tax implications related to trust distribution.”

Understand the terms of the trust One of the first questions a beneficiary might have for the advisory team is, “What does the trust mean for me?” Esparza explains that a trust is a useful tool for holding, managing, and distributing property as outlined by the trustor(s) - the creator(s) of the trust - in the trust agreement, but each trust is unique in how assets can be distributed to beneficiaries. It is important to understand the terms of the trust. Some key trust aspects to discuss include: • Beneficiary or beneficiaries: Is there a sole or several beneficiaries of the trust? How do the terms address the rights different beneficiaries have to distributions from the trust? • Age restrictions: Does the beneficiary have to reach a certain age before accessing some or all of the trust? • Distribution restrictions: Can beneficiaries access the principal or just the income from the trust? Does the beneficiary need to provide the trustee with proof of the beneficiaryʼs own income and expenses to receive distributions? What categories of expenses can the trust cover for the beneficiary? For what reasons may distributions be adjusted? • Lifetime of the trust: Does the trust terminate once the beneficiary reaches a certain age, or is it meant to last the beneficiaryʼs lifetime? Is any portion of the trust designated for future generations? “Trusts are an opportunity to build generational wealth, not only for the trustor but also for the beneficiary,” Esparza says. “For that reason, the trustee should be thoughtful in administrating the trust to help the funds last not only through beneficiaryʼs lifetime but also potentially for future generations.” Ask questions before taking distributions “Before taking a trust distribution, some beneficiaries find it useful to inquire about the potential tax consequences. Thatʼs where a tax advisor should provide guidance,” Esparza says. “Beneficiaries also may consid-

er consulting with the trustee and investment advisor about additional considerations or impacts a trust distribution may have.” In addition, beneficiaries should consult with their own legal counsel if they have specific questions regarding their rights with respect to a trust or the possible impact of a trust distribution. Esparza shares the story of a young beneficiary who wanted to use her trust fund to purchase a luxury car when she turned 16. “As trustee, I posed this question: ʻWould a less-expensive car meet your transportation goals and preserve trust assets for the long term?ʼ” he says. “It is important for beneficiaries to stay connected with the trustee and to ask clarifying questions so they understand the impact certain distributions may have to the trust. As a fiduciary, a trustee is there to educate and can help the trust sustain longer term financial well-being for the beneficiary.” Wells Fargo Private Bank offers products and services through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, and its various affiliates and subsidiaries. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. is a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. offers various advisory and fiduciary products and services including discretionary portfolio management. Wells Fargo affiliates, including financial advisors of Wells Fargo Advisors, a separate non-bank affiliate, may be paid an ongoing or onetime referral fee in relation to clients referred to the bank. The bank is responsible for the day-to-day management of the account and for providing investment advice, investment management services, and wealth management services to clients. The role of the financial advisor with respect to the Bank products and services is limited to referral and relationship management services. Some of The Private Bank experiences may be available to clients of Wells Fargo Advisors without a relationship with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Wells Fargo & Company and its affiliates do not provide legal or tax advice. Wells Fargo Advisors is not a legal or tax advisor. Please consult your legal advisors to determine how this information may apply to your own situation. Whether any planned tax result is realized by you depends on the specific facts of your own situation at the time your taxes are prepared. Trust services available through banking and trust affiliates in addition to non-affiliated companies of Wells Fargo Advisors. 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 by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director - Investments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.

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Farewell: Trustees generous with time, talents Pascack Valley High School with the Class of 1959 and was a proud PVHS Indian to the end. After high school, Francesca went on Barnard College and then pursued a career in speech therapy before turning her talents toward public relations. As a young married woman with children, she and her husband settled in Montvale and later moved to River Vale. Francesca eventually took a job at the Pascack Valley Hospital in Westwood. She became the spokeswoman of the hospital and was well-known throughout the Pascack Valley. Active in community affairs, she was a past president of the Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Dr. David Goldberg Child Care Center in Westwood, and the Westwood Rotary Club. A Pascack Historical Society member for over 40 years, Francesca dedicated her life to this museum. She was a guiding force that bound the organization, working ceaselessly toward a stable future for the Society amidst a changing world. She became PHSʼ greatest asset and advocate. Many of

NOVEMBER 20, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FROM PAGE 1

The late Francesca M. Moskowitz, left, and Helen Whalen, right; PHS members receive “RELICS.” Helen, courtesy Whalen family. Francesca, courtesy Pascack Valley High School.

the museumʼs volunteers and trustees came to their roles through their association with her. Francesca was a member of the PHS Board of Trustees serving as president, vice president, secretary, and chairperson of countless committees. She oversaw more than 40 issues of the Societyʼs quarterly newsletter, “RELICS,” as its editor.

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The building of PHSʼ Ellen Berdais lecture hall (1999) and its museum renovation (2019) took place under Francescaʼs watchful eyes. In her final few years, the Board of Trustees bestowed upon her the honorary title of “trustee emerita” as declining health led to her taking a less active role. Even with increasing health issues, she maintained a keen interest in what was going on at the museum and with PHS. Francesca was a true lover of history with a voracious appetite for knowledge and a boundless curiosity. For years she was the historical societyʼs leading historian, researcher, writer, and “Answer Girl.” With her goes a wealth of local history knowledge, both experienced and learned, that cannot be replicated. She was a very special individual whose like we will not see again. We are proud to have known her and worked by her side. Rest in peace, dear Francesca

A True Matriarch: Helen Whalen ONGTIME PASCACK Historical Society trustee Helen Whalen passed away Sept. 5, 2023, on her 94th birthday. Helenʼs life is one to be celebrated, and she leaves an exceptional legacy in her family as well as her work in local history. Helen grew up in River Vale, one of nine children of Baldo and Bertha Dobroslavich. It was magical listening to Helen speak about her childhood on a River Vale farm, the home she grew up in, her days at Westwood High School, and her memories of the World War II years. She recalled with amazing clarity stories of school days in the 1930s. Helen graduated in 1946 and not long afterward she met the love of her life, Edward Whalen. The young couple married in 1949 and settled in Westwood. From this union the Whalen family grew to include seven children, 16 grandchildren, and an incredible 22 greatgrandchildren.

Helen was very involved with the local history community, volunteering with both the Westwood Heritage Society and Pascack Historical Society, and she co-authored and edited the comprehensive “History of River Vale” in 2010. In recent years she had been working on another book, “Did You Know? Stories and History of Our Hometown of Westwood,” forthcoming in 2024. In addition to serving as a trustee at PHS, Helen was instrumental in creating wonderful exhibits over the years. A lover of history, she spent countless hours poring over documents and newspapers as she pieced together genealogy and sought to discover the longlost tales from our local region. As much as she treasured the past, Helen was not afraid to embrace new technology. She was active on social media and loved to digitize old photos so that they could be preserved, restored, and shared. After a career at Kodak, it was only fitting that at PHS the photograph collection was Helenʼs domain. In her capable hands, a meager assortment of images blossomed into a vibrant archive with thousands of pictures and postcards. It was a massive undertaking over many years, but a labor of love for her Pascack Valley. In loving memory

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and disabled individuals is expected to be delivered for joint use by Hillsdale and Woodcliff Lake in December as part of a NJ Transit grant. Mayor John Ruocco said the grant brings “minimal expense to the borough,” pursuant to Section 5310 of the Federal Transit Act. “We applied to NJ Transit for such a van back in 2015, but were told that our chances of being awarded would improve with a joint application with another borough. Both we and Woodcliff Lake subsequently applied for such a joint grant award, knowing it would take at least two years for delivery,” he said on Nov. 6. He said, “We were told that our grant request was approved. However, when COVID hit, we were informed by NJT that overseas supply issues would further extend that delivery date.”

“both Hillsdale and Woodcliff Lake officials have been in regular contact with the NJT to stay abreast of the situation. The final agreement is under legal review by Woodcliff Lake and is expected to be approved later this month. Our Hillsdale Council may need to enter into a shared service agreement with Woodcliff

Ruocco said “The new van, which will do shared duty with Woodcliff Lake pursuant to a schedule that will be worked out between both boroughs, is a Ford 2024 Ford Champion Challenger with 16 ambulatory and two wheelchair seats. The vehicle has a retail value of $128,000.”

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Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and the Bergen County Board of Commissioners announce that starting in November, Van Saun County Park in Paramus will once again be Northern New Jerseyʼs premier destination for winter family fun with two distinct, unique holiday attractions. Starting on Friday, Nov. 24 at 4 p.m., Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland presented by Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, is set to make its triumphant return to Van Saun County Park with open air ice skating, ice bumper cars, a heated hospitality tent, games, activities, food trucks, an indoor/outdoor beer and wine garden, live holiday music,

and rides on the iconic carousel. From the giant 30-foot centerpiece Christmas Tree to the festive decorations throughout, families will have the chance to be transported to a winter paradise this holiday season right here in Bergen County. But even before you and your family can hit the ice, the Bergen County Zoo will once again host Let it GLOW! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular which opens on Thursday, Nov. 9 at 4 p.m. The experience, sponsored by the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc., will feature traditional Chinese lanterns with a modern twist, including dozens of hand-painted, larger-than-life

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structures that celebrate culture, animals, and the warmth of the holidays. With more than 30 scenes, each hand-made, artistic wonder is more breathtaking than the last. The event also has train rides and fire pits, and there will be sʼmores kits available in the Zoo Gift Shop. Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland Hours of Operation and Upcoming Events Nov. 24–Jan. 1, 2024. Hours of operation are Fridays, 4 to 9 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sundays, 11 a.m. 7 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, the ice rink is open for skating from 3 to 9 p.m. Winter Wonderland will have adjusted hours on Christmas Eve and New Yearʼs Eve and operate 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. From Dec. 26–Jan. 1, 2024, Winter Wonderland will operate 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Winter Wonderland is closed on Christmas. For much more information, including prices, visit BergenCountyWinterWonderland.com

• Saturday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m. Winter Wonderland Tree Lighting; • Saturday, Dec. 9, 6 p.m. Winter Wonderland Menorah Lighting; and • Wednesday, Dec. 27, 6 p.m. Winter Wonderland Kinara Lighting.

Let it GLOW! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular Hours of Operation and Ticket information Nov. 9–Jan. 14, 2024, Thursdays and Sundays: 4 to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays: 4 to 9 p.m. Closed on Christmas, Dec. 25. Open daily from Dec. 26–Jan. 1. Adults: $18, children: $9. Tickets are available for purchase through Eventbrite or at the door during the event (subject to availability). For more information, visit friendsofbergencountyzoo.org. Let It Glow is available for corporate events Monday through Wednesday. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. To inquire about a private, one-of-a-kind event, or if your business is interested in becoming a sponsor, Upcoming events • Friday, Nov. 24, 4 p.m. please contact Marianne Vella at Winter Wonderland officially MVella@co.bergen.nj.us. Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonopens;

derland in partnership with the New Jersey Devils is also proud to host Learn to Play Hockey this season! Learn to Play is designed to teach your child the fundamentals of ice hockey. On-ice sessions are run by USA Hockey-certified coaches as well as New Jersey Devils Alumni and are structured to be both instructional and fun. Registration includes a full set of CCM hockey equipment. For more info visit bergencountywinterwonderland.com/learn-to-play-hockey.

About the Bergen County Parks Department The Bergen County Parks Department is dedicated to providing recreation opportunities for all, preserving open space, enhancing environmental health, and protecting significant cultural and historic sites for current and future generations. The Bergen County Parks System which has been connecting people to nature for 75 years, spans over 9,000 acres and includes a nationally accredited zoo, six golf courses, 21 parks, two horseback riding areas, an environmental center and nine historic sites.

club, a 6.2-acre property purchased in April 2022 by the Township for recreation purposes. She said some bond holders had been reimbursed “different amounts” for bond holdings. She said she was told the full bond return amount to be reimbursed was $725. For bond holders questioning the amount being reimbursed, Morgan advised emails to wtswimclubnj@gmail.com. “Itʼs the best way for them to get answers.” She said she was told that those receiving less than $725 did not resign from the club “properly,” according to the clubʼs records. She told bondholders to reach out to her if they were still having issues. The Washington Township Recreation Center website, wtswimclub.com, is still live, a time capsule touting amenities situated on several acres. “We have an expansive tree-lined lawn with picnic tables, an Olympic-sized pool, a separate kiddie pool, a large clubhouse, and a food concession area. Located in the Westwood/Ridgewood/Paramus vicinity [along the Garden State Parkway], the Washington Township Recreation Center is a familyfriendly swim club and recreation center. Call us at (201) 664-4344 for further information.”

$1,024.” Plans for recreational activities at the site are being developed by Boswell Engineering for presentation to the council. Since its purchase, seasonal equipment and some public works vehicles have been stored on the land, vexing some neighbors. Earlier this year, the council accepted a $438,750 county Open Space grant awarded in late 2022

FROM PAGE 1

to begin improvements on the site. For background, see “Swim club seeks a way forward: Dragging unpaid taxes, stalled reimbursements,” John Snyder, Sept. 30, 2019; and “Local pools stay afloat amid hot competition,” Michael Olohan, Aug. 26, 2019. — Some reporting by John Snyder

Club News?

Let us help promote your club or organization. The former private Washington Township Swim & Recreation Club in happiSend all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or er times. The township of Washington bought the property to keep it out of mail to: Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675 developers’ hands and to explore recreational uses. It’s been storing public works equipment. Mayor Peter Calamari, inset, was a staunch proponent of the acquisition. File

The center was home to the award-winningWTRC swim team (competing in the Super Six League), held many special events, and employed generations of teens. The club, like many of its kind nationwide, fell on hard times as trends changed, though residents in the Pascack Valley still have public pool options, including in Westwood and Hillsdale. The club did not open for the 2020 summer season due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It also did not open for business in 2021 or 2022. The 2019 season was its last year in operation. Club co-president Loretta

DeTitta told us in 2019 that the club counted 130 to 150 bonded members, with the oldest pending refund dating to 2005. In September 2019, Pascack Press reported “former members on a payback list for the ownership bonds they gave—$750 payable over five years, separate from summer fees—are losing their patience,” with grumblings of class action lawsuits in the air. Our report added, “Some, who did not resign per the clubʼs stipulated procedures—by a given date and by return-receipt mail— have seen their bond value shrink to make up for unpaid summer fees, which range from $201 to

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As the United States prepares to celebrate Thanksgiving, a holiday that recalls the immigration experiences of the countryʼs first English settlers, Bergen Community College has launched a comprehensive oral history research initiative to document the stories of first- and second-generation Bergen County immigrants. The College has issued an open call for submissions from all individuals living in Bergen County to provide their stories at east80west.com Conceived by Bergen faculty members Tim Blunk, Christine Eubank, Ph.D., and Leigh Jonaitis, Ed.D., the East80West humanities project features three elements: a collection of oral histories from Bergen County residents; a verbatim theater production that includes content derived from the testimonials; and the “Arrivals/Departures” art exhibition of work curated by the Cali-

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F/T Temporary Seasonal Laborer – Hillsdale DPW. Department of Public Works is seeking individuals to assist with maintenance & leaf collection. No experience is necessary. Pays up to $18 per hour. Responsibilities include park maintenance, emptying garbage cans, litter removal, raking & blowing leaves and performing other manual labor duties. NJ driver’s license is required. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.

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fornia-based Cece Carpio in Gallery Bergen. The East80West initiative draws its inspiration from the Collegeʼs annual “common read,” which encourages students, faculty and staff to read the same book, “A

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"A Map is Only One Story: Twenty Writers on Immigration, Family and the Meaning of Home" has inspired an oral history project on the Bergen County immigration experience.

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HELP WANTED ADMIN/OFFICE MANAGER WESTWOOD This is a year-round position. General Duties: Answering the phone, Ordering supplies, Invoicing, Bank deposits, Data entry. Bookkeeping skills are a must (knowledge of QuickBooks or Sage 50)! Bookkeeping duties include: Expense reports, Processing payments, Billing, Payroll entry.This Job Is Ideal for someone who Is: Dependable (more reliable than spontaneous), Peopleoriented (enjoys interacting with people and working on group projects), Adaptable/flexible (enjoys doing work that requires frequent shifts in direction), Detail oriented (would rather focus on the details of work than the bigger picture), Achievement-oriented (enjoys taking on challenges, even if they might fail) Autonomous/Independent (enjoys working with little direction), Innovative (prefers working in unconventional ways or on tasks that require creativity). Call 551-404-4359.

Map is Only One Story: Twenty Writers on Immigration, Family and the Meaning of Home,” and participate in activities, projects and discussions about the work. Combined, the initiatives represent major efforts in the Collegeʼs expanded diversity, equity and inclusion activities that seek to enhance belongingness at Bergen. To collect the testimonials, the College will leverage the “TheirStory” online video recording platform. All interested Bergen County residents can share their stories in their own voices at east80west.com/first-generation and east80west.com/second-generation. In addition to becoming part of a permanent digital history archive, faculty organizers will use selections from the testimonials for a verbatim theater project centered on local stories of migration/immigration. Verbatim theater, a form of documentary work based on the spoken words of real people, creates a platform for the silent or marginalized in society to speak to engaged audience. The College will collect testimonials through the spring semester. The verbatim theater performance and the opening of the Arrivals/Departures art exhibition will take place in 2024. For more information, visit east80west.com or email ceubank@bergen.edu or ljonaitis@bergen.edu.

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HELP WANTED SALES TALENT NEED A GREAT sales Diner Help Wanted rep for your business? Exp. Grill Cooks, & Exp. Call (201) 815-2636. Waitstaff . Full Time & Part “Guaranteed Results.” Time. Excellent Pay. Dumont area. Call Peter, SalesTeamStaffing.com. (201) 790-3941 or Sandy HELP WANTED at (201) 741-9298. AND PERMANENT SUBSTITUTE CROSS- HELP WANTED ING GUARD POSI- Food Service Lunch Aide TIONS, WESTOOD position(s) available at our POLICE DEPART- K-8 district. 3.5 hours daily. MENT 101 WASHING- Duties include food prep, TON AVENUE - 201- serving and light record664-7000 ext. 152. You keeping. Criminal backare off during the sum- ground required upon hirmer and all holidays during. Send brief resume to ing the school year. Must be able to work in all BA Antoinette Kelly at or types of weather. KellyA@nvnet.org Uniform is provided. Pay apply at DEMARESTis $17.00/hour. PUBLICSCHOOLS.ORG Applications available at > B O E > e m p l o y m e n t Police Headquarters. opportunities Westwood is an Equal HELP WANTED Opportunity Employer.

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VOLUNTEERS WANTED The Westwood Habitat ReStore is looking for fun-loving people to volunteer! Positions include customer service and the loading dock. Join the family at Habitat Bergen ReStore and help us build homes for families while having a feel-good experience volunteering. Call (201) 547-1020 for more information. Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County – Restore is at 121 Carver Ave. Westwood.

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Join our ever growing sales team as a Sales Associate for the Pascack Press and Northern Valley Press. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service. SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net

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OBITUARIES

devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, pioneer, family friend, faithful parishioner and compassionate citizen. Guido joined the 12th Armored Division 119 A Company-Engineers because he wanted to serve but also contribute by learning something new. In WWII he served in the Ardennes, was part of the Mystery Brigade and received the Purple heart during the Battle of the Bulge. The 12th Armored was responsible for freeing five of the death camps. Guido remembered the shock of seeing the first of the Camps. He spoke with pride that once they entered Germany the War in Europe ended a month later. Beyond his distinguished military service, Guido made significant post-war contributions to the field of orthopedics. His desire to always make something better and more effective than was made before, created the foundation of much of the technology used today. His extensive knowledge of the entire industry was used by Guido to set the standards for the cataloging of all internal fixation. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of over 60 years, Nilda C Borella, and is survived by his devoted children, Paulette B Gilchrist and her husband Andrew Gilchrist III and Paul Borella and his partner Robert Work. Guido's legacy extends to his cherished grandchildren, Andrew “Drew” Gilchrist IV and his wife Gina Gilchrist and Elizabeth Gilchrist and her husband Ryan Boyle. He felt blessed because he experienced the joy of having great-grandchildren, Ethan Boyle, Olivia Boyle and Edith Gilchrist. The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood on Wednesday, Nov.15 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial for Guido J. Borella will be held at St. John The Baptist R.C. Church in Hillsdale on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 10 a.m. Guido requested In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to St. John The Baptist R.C. Church at https://membership.faithdirect.net/NJ48. May Guido and all those members of the Greatest Generation Rest In Eternal Peace. Becker-FuneralHome.com

Roger Watson, 89 of Park Ridge and formerly of Ridgefield Park, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023, at his home with his loving family at his side. Roger married the love of his life, Constance Veillette, and greatly enjoyed 63 years together. Roger was the son of Margaret Helen Murphy and George Watson and is predeceased by his three siblings: David Watson, Margaret Oliver, and George Watson. Roger served his country in the United States Army. Roger worked at Bendix, Allied Signal and now Honeywell as a timekeeper for 50 years. He was kind and easygoing with a strong sense of family and work ethic. He loved his house and spent time in the yard. In his younger days, he liked to dance, play tennis, and golf and always enjoyed relaxing and having a good time. Roger is survived by his wife Connie. Loving father of his daughter Kelly Hanson (deceased) and her husband Jeffrey, daughter Danielle Hussey and husband Larry; son Patrick Watson and wife Joy; son, Kevin Watson and Doris Ann. He was the proud grandfather to Elise Davis (Nathan), Amy Hanson, Curtis Hanson, Morgan Hussey, Lauren Benitz (Malcolm), Miles Watson, Lilly Watson, and Madilyn Watson; great-grandchildren: Kaia Davis and Zoey Cason. Roger is also survived by his nephews William Oliver (Kathy), and Wayne Oliver (Marsha); and cousins JoEllen Murphy (Tom), and Laura Murphy. Rogerʼs family thanks his caregivers, family members, and friends who helped him maintain the ability to remain at his home during his declining health. The family will receive relatives and friends from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 16 in the Sacred Heart Chapel at Our Lady of Mercy R. C. Church, Park Ridge. A Funeral Mass to celebrate Rogerʼs life will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 17 also in the church followed by burial in Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Tenafly. Memorial contributions may Anthony A. be made to the Alzheimerʼs KRESS Association. Robert Spearing Anthony A. Kress, 81, of Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, Montvale, formerly of Garfield, passed away on Thursday, Nov. rsfhi.com 9, 2023. Tony was a graduate of RutGuido J. gers University and Seton Hall BORELLA Law School. He is survived by Guido J. Borella of Hills- his beloved wife of 60 years dale passed on Veterans Day, Carol as well as his daughters Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, at the Amanda and Amy and her partremarkable age of 101. He was a ner Todd Mogenson.

Tony felt a deep sense of commitment to country, community and family. An Army veteran who served in Vietnam, attaining the rank of captain, Tony was the recipient of the Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal. He continued his civic commitment as a member of the NJ Bar Association and retired in 2020. Though he rediscovered interests in cooking, guitar and target shooting in his retirement, it is the loving devotion to his wife and family for which he will be forever remembered. He touched the lives of his friends and clients alike and will be missed dearly by all who knew him. The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood on Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. with a memorial service and military honors at 4. Memorial contributions can be made in Tonyʼs name to the Tunnels To Towers Foundation at T2T.Org/Donate. Becker-FuneralHome.Com

Benjamin ‘Ben’ CAROSELLA

Benjamin “Ben” Carosella, 85, of Washington Township, passed away Oct. 31, 2023. Ben is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Carosella, to whom he would have been married 63 years on Nov. 19. He is also survived by his five sons: Scott, Craig, Curt, Douglas and Christian; his 12 grandchildren; and two great-granddaughters. Ben was born Nov. 28,1937 to Benjamin and Christine Carosella. Ben grew up in the Bronx. He was a MTA bus dispatcher in charge of several hun-

dred NYC bus drivers. Ben went on to become a fireman, where he later worked his way up to become chief of River Vale fire department. Ben and his wife Martha met in the Bronx at the R.K.O Chester movie theatre at the age of 16 and 18 years old. Four years after meeting they went on to marry and have their five beautiful sons who later gave them 12 grandchildren and two great-granddaughters. In Benʼs free time he loved to watch “Seinfeld,” solve puzzles, grow Casta beans and attend Yankee games and car shows with his kids and grandkids. Celebration of life services were at Becker Funeral Home at 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 2 to 6 p.m. and Monday, Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. with services at St. Andrew Church in Westwood.

Audrey J. LYDON

Audrey J. Lydon, 95, of Westwood, passed peacefully at home, Monday, Oct. 30, 2023 surrounded by her family. Born in Wilkes-Barre, Penn. to her loving parents, the late Thomas and Mae Duggan. A dear sister to her best friends the late Mary Burde and Dorothy Smith. Beloved wife of the late James P. Lydon, with whom she spent 55 of the happiest years of her life. Devoted mother of James (Dottie), Steven (Bonnie), David (Katherine), Victoria Booth (Pat), Robert (Kim), William Ruehle, and Jennifer Riegner (Jeff). While helping raise their children, Audrey also took great pride in her work. She loved working in New York City, and

perfected the “commuter trot.” She worked for the phone company for 25 years. She was also a lifelong learner, and earned her bachelorʼs degree in sociology, summa cum laude, from Montclair State. Her love of learning did not stop there. She loved to read, and led a book club for many years, and was also president of the Friends of the Westwood Public Library. Audrey was a loving grandmother of nineteen adoring grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. One of her many hobbies was knitting, and she would lovingly knit a blanket for each new grandchild, as well as for children of her many friends. Audrey loved hiking and walking, but was happiest when surrounded by her many children, grandchildren, and friends. She loved hosting family parties, and having her house full. You could often find her sitting on the porch, waving to neighbors, working on crossword puzzles, or at the dining table, passionately defending her word choices in Scrabble. Audrey was a parishioner of St. Andrewʼs and a Eucharistic Minister for many years. The Funeral Liturgy will be at St. Andrewʼs R.C. Church, Westwood on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. The family will receive relatives and friends at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood on Friday, 3–6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made in Audreyʼs name to Friends of the Westwood Library, 49 Park Ave., Westwood, NJ 07675.

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PARK RIDGE

PARK RIDGE POLICE RESERVE SEEKS OFFICERS

The Reserve Unit of the Park Ridge Police Department 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 now 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 training class (classes to be 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 at 33 Park Avenue, Park Ridge.

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