Gottheimer lauds 16; our recipients hail from Emerson, Hillsdale, Westwood, Woodcliff Lake
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) on Monday, Dec. 16, honored local lifesaving first responders, veterans, volunteers, community leaders, and residents during his Fifth District Hometown Heroes Ceremony at Ramapo College.
Gottheimer recognized 16 residents as Fifth District Hometown Heroes to acknowledge their dedication to improving the lives of their neighbors, families, and communities. It was the 80th anniversary of the awards.
“If you tune into cable or go onto social media, there is far more attention these days on whatʼs going wrong with America, and far too little attention on whatʼs going right,” said Gottheimer, who recently announced he is running for governor to replace fellow Democrat Phil Murphy “But then, stories crop up here and there of an EMT who has saved countless lives and volunteered decades of service, or a young student going above and beyond to help those less fortunate.”
He added, “You realize that we just donʼt spend enough time showcasing all of the good that
See HEROES on page 14
IHA STUDENTS ANSWER THE CALL IHA STUDENTS ANSWER THE CALL
Local Campus Ministry Program Centers on Service
Township of Washington
FORMINGSTUDENTS as young women who embody the Gospel is at the center of Immaculate Heart Academyʼs mission. During their four years, students are continuously invited to dive deeper into their Catholic faith, further their relationship with God, and use their gifts in service to others.
Thatʼs according to IHA spokeswoman AnneMarie Vaughn P ʼ22, sharing with Pascack Press on Dec. 23 that the schoolʼs Campus Ministry program — under the direction of 2019 graduate Emily Ash and powered by girls from the Pascack Valley and surrounding communities — is off to
Continued on page 10
addition
TOYS AND JOY
CHIEF JOE MADDEN WALKSOUT
Ceremony caps enviable police career of 38 years; urges successor to ʻsharpen the sawʼ
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
Police Chief Joseph J. Madden, whose 38-year career with the Park Ridge Police Department included 17 years as chief, officially retired following a ceremonial “walk out” on Dec. 18. The tradition, steeped in law enforcement custom, marked the conclusion of a career defined by professionalism, community engagement, and a dedication to modernization.
Reflecting on Maddenʼs legacy, Mayor Keith Misciagna lauded his leadership, calling him a model of commitment and exemplary character
“When a career devoted to serving and protecting concludes at retirement, itʼs a remarkable accomplishment worthy of acknowledgment and celebration,” Misciagna said. “Chief Madden exemplified an outstanding career in law enforcement, characterized by leadership, bravery, compassion, and unwavering dedication.”
See MADDEN on page 11
The first Jewish family to settle in Westwood were the Steinmans, who arrived in the borough at the
of the
PARKRIDGE
In
to vital Midnight Runs,IHA Campus Ministry holds a Christmas drive and visit to Sacred Heart School in Jersey City,and hosts an annual Thanksgiving dinner for senior citizens. Courtesy photos.
PASCACK PRESS
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The root of a dispute in River Vale
To the editor:
I AM WRITING in response to your Dec. 16, 2024, article “Resident, Township Spar Over Tree Maintenance.” In my opinion, much of the commentary attributed to Township Administrator Gennaro Rotella and Mayor Mark Bromberg is misleading and inaccurate:
I fully understand that I am legally allowed to trim branches that extend over my property.
That is why I have been doing so for the past 40 years. Additionally, I have been maintaining a 2,000-square-foot lawn located
Pickleball evening program from Jan. 6
Park Ridge Recreation is kicking off the New Year with an exciting opportunity for pickleball enthusiasts of all ages. Starting Monday, Jan. 6, a new TGA Evening Indoor Pickleball Program will offer sessions for both grades 4–8 and adults at the First Congregational Church of Park Ridge, 131 Pascack Road.
Whether youʼre a seasoned player or trying the game for the first time, these sessions—held at 6 and 7 p.m.—are a perfect way to enjoy friendly competition, learn new skills, and have some fun on the court.
To learn more or secure your spot, call 201-573-1800, ext. 521, or visit parkridgeboro.com to find the flyer and registration information.
between my property (Lot 8) and the Pascack Brook (Lot 7), without compensation.
It appears Township officials still do not understand the difference between tree branches and tree limbs. This is not a matter of
HILLSDALE
semantics but rather of size and height. A tree limb is a primary s tructural division of a tree, extending from the main stem and typically bearing foliage. A branch, on the other hand, is a wooden structure that emerges
CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 from either the stem or another branch.
Trimming tree limbs 20 to 30 feet high that encroach on my property would require me to tres-
Santa, helpers raise range of aid
American Legion Post 162 and Santa Claus (who, we note, bears a resemblance to post commander Douglas Frank) raised more than $700, along with generous canned and dry food donations, for the Hillsdale Food Bank during their recent Photos With Santa campaign.
Families, friends, and members of the community gathered at the post hadquarters on Dec. 14 and 15 to take festive photos with Santa while supporting a vital cause.
Sons of the American Legion Vice Commander Dennis Cesa and his wife, Katherine, brought extra holiday spirit by accompanying three “reindeer wannabes” to help Santa with the hefty donations.
In addition to this effort, the post contributed $1,000 to North Carolina hurricane relief efforts, providing aid to those affected by devastating storm damage.
The post also organized the delivery of more than 2,500 holiday letters to 48 service members
deployed in the U.S. Armed Forces. These letters, crafted by schoolchildren and local residents, were sent to spread joy and gratitude to those serving far from home.
The American Legion and the
Sons of the American Legion extend heartfelt holiday wishes and a happy New Year to all. They remind everyone to honor the sacrifices of current service members and to never forget the enduring efforts of our veterans.
Photos With Santa delivers again! Zoltán Horváth photo
PARK RIDGE
Bckintime... Bckintime...
Troop 162, students deliver on holiday warmth to the troops
BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
General Leonard E. Wood American Legion Post 162 is expressing deep gratitude for the overwhelming public and school support for its annual Cards and Letters to the Troops program.
The initiative, coordinated by past commander Zoltán Horváth, resulted in the collection of approximately 2,500 cards and letters, which the post said “will bring holiday cheer to 48 local
See TROOPS page 00
T Thhe e
S Stteeiinnmmaannss: : Pioneers of faith and community
BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS
THEFIRST JEWISHFAMILY to settle in Westwood was the Steinmans, who arrived in the borough at the turn of the 20th century.
Jacob (Ephraim Yaacov) Steinman and his wife, Ida, were from Vilnius—presentday capital of Lithuania—known as Vilna to its Jewish population. During their time, Vilna was under the rule of the Russian Empire, but its history is complex. Over the centuries, the city changed hands numerous times, coming under the control of Soviet and Imperial Russia, Napoleonic France, Poland, and Nazi and Imperial Germany.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Vilna was one of Europeʼs largest Jewish centers, earning the nickname “The Jerusalem of Lithua-
nia.” It was a hub of culture and a world center for Torah study. But by the 1880s, waves of anti-Jewish riots, or pogroms, in the Russian Empire forced many Jews to flee to America. Decades later, World War II and the Holocaust would decimate nearly all of Lithuaniaʼs Jewish population. Those who immigrated earlier, like the Steinmans, were among the fortunate ones.
According to census records, Jacob and Ida married in 1870 when he was 21 and she was 16. They immigrated to America in the 1890s with their two daughters, Fannie and Sarah.
By 1900, the Steinmans had settled in Westwood, making them the first Jewish family in the borough. Jacob opened a clothing store on Broadway, then called Railroad Avenue, at a location now home to Isabellaʼs
Cleaners. The Steinmansʼ native language was Yiddish, and while Jacob and Ida could speak English, they could not read or write it.
By the 1910s, a small number of Jewish families had begun to move into the Pascack Valley. These families gathered for religious services in the Steinmansʼkitchen. Jacob and Idaʼs younger daughter, Sarah, married Charles Emanuel in 1903 in a large ceremony at Apollo Hall in New York City. Charles was a senior partner at Emanuel & Gordonʼs department store on Westwood Avenue and an active member of the Westwood community. However, he struggled with poor health for much of his life and died suddenly in 1922 at just 42 years old. Although his life was brief, his name contin-
See PIONEERS on page 00
Above: Ida and Jacob Steinman, Westwood’s first Jewish residents. Below, an advertisement for J. Steinman’s clothing store in Westwood, originally published in the Park Ridge Local in 1901.
Via Post 162 in 2022. Their 2024 Cards and Letters to the Troops program exceeded expectations.
Layoffs, tears, and a vacancy: Party City, based
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
WOODCLIFFLAKE
The separation notice from human resources at 1 Celebration Square was brief and stark: Party City Holdings Inc. (“PCHI”) has made the difficult decision to conduct a mass layoff at its Woodcliff Lake headquarters, effective Dec. 20.
The layoff, affecting all of the companyʼs U.S. stores and ending a nearly 40-year run of operations, is expected to be permanent. In its message to employees, human resources said, “The expected date of the first separation will be Dec. 20, 2024. We regret to inform you that your position will be eliminated on Dec. 20, 2024.”
Employees were reminded that “PCHI does not have a job bumping system—that is, employees will not be able to displace more junior employees out of their job positions as a result of this mass layoff.” Inquiries were directed to the firmʼs assistant general counsel.
According to CNN, CEO Barry Litwin informed corporate employees on Friday that Party City is “winding down” operations immediately,with Dec. 20 marking their final day of employment. Staffwere reportedly told they would not receive severance pay, and their benefits would end as the companyprepared to cease operations.
“That is without question the most difficult message that Iʼve ever had to deliver,” Litwin reportedly said during a video conference call. He added, “Itʼs really important for you to know that weʼve done everything possible that we could to try to avoid this outcome. Unfortunately, itʼs necessary to commence a wind-down process immediately.”
Store-level employees received separate notifications indicating that all U.S. locations
Cityʼs planned $25–$30 million capital investment was touted as a major win for the borough.
“Weʼre excited to bring Party City Holdings Inc. to Woodcliff Lake,” then-CEO Brad Weston said in 2021. “Itʼs essential that we provide our team with the right working environment… We anticipate the convenient location, inspiring environment, and our hybrid approach will support a modern way of working.”
A Brief History of Party City
will close by Feb. 28, 2025, at which time store staff will be terminated. The letters expressed said, “Although Party City believes these closings are in the best interest of the company, we regret that we have had to take this step and thank you for your valued contributions and service.”
CNN also reported that HR chief Karen McGowan, addressing employees about the termination of benefits, broke down in tears during a video call, expressing regret over how, and when, the news was communicated.
Local Impact
The news hits Woodcliff Lake particularly hard. Mayor Carlos Rendo, who just three years ago celebrated the companyʼsrelocation of its headquarters to the borough, expressed disappointment over the timing and manner of the layoffs.
“How do you do that in the middle of the holidays without advance notice to employees?” Rendo wrote on Facebook. “I
hope that Party City works with its workforce for a smooth transition. Party City occupies a Class A building in Woodcliff Lake that is now going to be empty. We will lend our support, in any way possible, to the owners of the building to help attract a new business to occupy the property.”
Party Cityʼs relocation to Woodcliff Lake in 2022 was initially met with optimism, much welcome in the shadow of the pandemic. In 2021, Rendo and the Borough Council worked to attract the company to the vacant ESAI building at 100 Tice Boulevard, highlighting the economic benefits. At the time, Rendo estimated the move would bring 300–400 jobs with salaries averaging in the mid-$90,000 range and a total workforce exceeding 700 employees.
The company received the first award under New Jerseyʼs Emerge Program, part of the Economic Recovery Act of 2020, which incentivized job creation and capital investment. Party
Founded in 1986 by Steve Mandell in East Hanover, N.J., Party City grew from a single store into the largest retailer of party goods in North America. The company expanded through franchising and acquisitions,
including Party America, Factory Card & Party Outlet, and iParty, while capitalizing on seasonal pop-ups such as Halloween City and Toy City. Its heavy focus on Halloween proved pivotal, contributing significantly to its profitability.
However, financial struggles began to mount, driven by changing consumer habits, competition, and pandemic-related challenges. In 2023, Party City filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy but managed to eliminate over $1 billion in debt during restructuring. Despite these efforts, the company continued to face challenges and announced in late 2024 that it would close all U.S. operations. Canadian stores, owned by Canadian Tire, remain unaffected.
Woodclif Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo, above, who helped convince Party City to relocate its corporate headquarters to the borough in 2020, has vowed to help find a replacement tenant after the firm announced, Dec. 20, its U.S. shutdown.
Save the dates:School boards reorganizing for 2025
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
SEVEN PASCACK VALLEY school boards, including the two-town Westwood Regional School Board, are set to hold reorganization meetings in early January. These meetings will shuffle or add members, elect board leadership, appoint professionals, and establish committees, setting the tone for the year ahead.
Two districts will hold meetings on Thursday, Jan. 2, four on Monday, Jan. 6, and one on Tuesday, Jan. 7. Full agendas are often packed with appointments, professional approvals, and sometimes budget items, though most were unavailable online by press time.
EYES ON TRUMP’S SECOND TERM
President-elect Donald Trump has outlined several education priorities for his second term, with a significant focus on redirecting federal funds to align with his vision:
• Abolishing the Department of Education: Trump proposes eliminating the federal Department of Education, aiming to transfer control to states and local entities. Redirecting federal education funding to state governments would be a cornerstone of this initiative. The system today educates some 50 million U.S. children. (The Times)
• Restricting Transgender Rights: Trump seeks policies recognizing only two genders, which would affect transgender studentsʼparticipation in school
Reorganization meetings often include the nomination and election of board presidents and vice presidents, appointments to committees, and approvals of pro- fessionals such as safety coordinators, purchasing agents, attorneys, and treasurers. Contracts and agreements for the 2025 school year also are commonly addressed.
activities and access to facilities. Trans and nonbinary youth face significant risks, including the elimination of gender-affirming care, forced outing to parents, and the erasure of their identities through federal legislation. These measures threaten their mental health, safety, and ability to live authentically, exacerbating high rates of discrimination, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among trans youth. (Time magazine.)
• Promoting “Patriotic Education”: Trump intends to introduce educational programs that emphasize “traditional American values and history,” countering what he describes as “leftwing indoctrination.” (PBS)
•Expanding School Choice: Trump proposes a tax
School budgets, which consume about 60% of local property taxes, remain a pressing issue. Meanwhile, debates on LGBTQ rights, book bans, and the statemandated sex education curriculum continue to play out in some districts.
break expansion allowing public funds to be used for private and religious schooling. (Politifact)
• Eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs: Trump aims to remove DEI initiatives from educational institutions, asserting that these programs contribute to ideological bias. Federal funds might be withheld from schools that fail to comply with this directive. (Al Jazeera)
• “American Academy”: Online undergraduate degrees paid by “taxing, fining, and suing excessively large private university endowments.” Critics say this bureaucratic approach is a boondoggle and likely nonstarter. (Agenda47; Forbes) —Staff report
Hereʼs a breakdown of local reorganization meetings:
• In Emerson, the school boardʼs annual reorganization meeting will be held Jan. 6, 7:30 p.m. at the Emerson Junior-Senior High School.
In the 2024 district election, School Board President Behrooz Pasdar ran uncontested for the one open board seat. No agenda was available by our publication date. Check the district website for updates.
• Hillsdaleʼs school board reorganization runs Monday, Jan. 6 at 6:30 p.m. in the Anthony S. DeNorchia Administration Building adjacent to Meadowbrook
School. VPChristina Jennings has left the board, and a new member is likely to be appointed to fill her slot at either the reorganization or first official meeting to be held on Jan. 13.
Before 2023ʼs contested school board election, which she won with the highest vote total, Jennings, a 20-year-plus resident, told us, “I have helped at the high school level serving as the PFO President for the past three years and helped as the cheer and gymnastics team parent.”
She said, “Over my past terms as a board of education member, Iʼve been dedicated to the betterment of our education system and have actively worked
towards meaningful changes, including amongst others live streaming of our meetings and the important George White referendum project,”
Along with her victory, newcomer Michael Kenduck eked out a victory over incumbent BOE president Nicole Klas in 2023ʼs election.
“I firmly believe that our children deserve the best opportunities for learning, and I see the referendum as a pivotal step in making this vision a reality. The potential it holds is immense, from modernizing our facilities to enhancing educational programs,” Jennings told us then.
In the uncontested Nov. 5 election, incumbent board president Justin Saxon and member Kevin Donatello sought two open seats and won reelection.
Also, in a school referendum on Sept. 17, 61% of local voters who went to the polls approved a $62.4 million bond referendum to upgrade the over 100-year-old George G. White Middle School. At the Nov. 11 meeting, trustees approved the sale of $15 million of the approved bonds for future middle school construction needs.
• In Montvale , a board reorganization meeting/work session is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 6, 6:30 p.m. at Fieldstone Middle School Instructional Media Center. The meeting will feature appointments and approval of board contracts and professionals such as the board attorneys. Other professionals to
Montvale’s gavel tap breaks three-town municipal court
BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
MONTVALE
The Pascack Valley Joint Court, established in 2011 as a model of intermunicipal collaboration, is now set to dissolve by the end of 2025. For more than a decade, the court served Montvale, Park Ridge, and Woodcliff Lake, offering shared facilities and resources to cut costs and streamline operations.
However, disputes over leadership and the courtʼs future have fractured the partnership.
The joint court, housed in Montvaleʼs municipal building at 12 Mercedes Drive, was governed by a shared services agreement that placed Montvale in charge of court facilities, personnel, and administration. Montvale handled appointments for court professionals, courtroom security, and operations management, while each municipality retained revenue from cases on its docket. The agreement also included an advisory committee, with representatives from each town tasked with ensuring operations ran smoothly.
Despite these carefully outlined roles, tensions have emerged. On Nov. 26, Montvaleʼs governing body voted, unanimously, to move from the joint model to a shared court arrangement, with Montvale taking the lead. The change, set to take effect in late 2025, would allow Montvale to independently appoint court personnel, including a judge and prosecutor—eliminating the collaborative hiring process that some officials say has led to inefficiencies and delays.
Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali posted, “Our staff has
been facing growing frustration with the challenges of securing temporary judges and rescheduling hearings due to a lack of available judges. With the new arrangement, if Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake choose to participate, we will have the ability to select a permanent judge and prosecutor independently, without needing approval from the other towns.”
Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo expressed frustration with Montvaleʼs approach, calling it a unilateral decision made without prior warning. “Over the past year, we have operated with a series of temporary judges. Unfortunately, despite agreeing to work together to get a new permanent judge appointed, Montvale has unilaterally and without any prior warning to its neighbors, given Woodcliff Lake and Park Ridge formal notice that it is withdrawing from the Court as of Dec. 31, 2025.”
Park Ridge passed a resolution on Dec. 18 to withdraw from the joint court entirely, effective Jan. 1, 2026, with officials citing Montvaleʼs withdrawal notice and other factors. The borough says it remains open to future sharedservice agreements but is also preparing to reestablish its own
independent municipal court if necessary.
A Model Agreement, Now Undone
The Pascack Valley Joint Municipal Court was initially structured to balance the benefits of collaboration with the independence of each municipality. The agreement required unanimous approval for major decisions, like hiring court professionals, and provided each municipality with its own court revenue. Montvale acted as the lead agency, overseeing operations and maintaining the courtʼs facilities and resources.
The system was not without challenges. Disputes over shared costs, security, and administrative responsibilities were built into the agreementʼs framework but depended heavily on cooperation. The advisory committee was tasked with resolving such issues, but some officials say the structure created more delays than solutions.
Follows Hillsdale, Westwood
The Pascack Valley Joint Courtʼs dissolution follows a different shared-service agreement
forged earlier this year between Hillsdale and Westwood. In January, the two towns combined their municipal court staffs under Westwoodʼs administration while keeping their court systems separate. This move was projected to save Hillsdale $70,000 annually and Westwood over $50,000. However, the transition sparked complaints from affected employees. [See “Hillsdale, Westwood in sharedcourt pact” by Michael Olohan.]
The next steps for Park Ridge
and Woodcliff Lake remain uncertain. Both towns have expressed interest in exploring new partnerships, potentially with each other or with other nearby municipalities. Weʼll stay with this developing story.
We ran this story originally at thepressgroup.net as “Pascack Valley Joint Municipal Court to disband amid townsʼtensions.” Visit our website for breaking news.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Green Acres Program. The application will be for a Completely Inclusive Playground at Pascack Brook County Park, located in the Borough of Westwood.
The Division of Land Management will make a brief presentation followed by a question-and-answer period. All residents are encouraged to attend and participate.
Those wishing to listen and/or participate should report to the Bergen County Administration Building, One Bergen County Plaza, Public Meeting Room, Fifth Floor, Hackensack, New Jersey, 07601.
Residents wishing to know more about this project can visit: https://www.co.bergen.nj.us/capital-improvement-projects/pascack-brook-completely-inclusive-playground.
Written comments to the County may be submitted on or before the date of the public hearing, or a request for additional information may be directed to the Bergen County Department of Parks, Bergen County Administration Building, One Bergen County Plaza, Hackensack, NJ 07601, Attn: Adam Strobel, Division of Land Management or by email to astrobel@bergencountynj.gov
Fond farewell to Escobar, who served on dais six years
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
HILLSDALE
Fellow councilors and the mayor offered words of praise for departing councilman John Escobar, who leaves the council Dec. 31 after six years of dedication and public service to the borough.
Escobar, a Republican, lost his bid for reelection on Nov. 5. Colletti and Democratic newcomer
Melissa S. Mazza Chiong snagged the two open council seats. Democrat Christopher Camp and Escobar
placed third and fourth, respectively, in the contest.
At the Dec. 10 meeting, the mayor and council colleagues thanked Escobar for his service, offering personal anecdotes and sharing memories.
Mayor Michael Sheinfield said he wanted to thank him. “Iʼve only done it for a year. Youʼve done it for six years. Youʼve got some thick skin, youʼve put up with a lot.
Youʼve done a lot... you give back to the community and sometimes itʼs a thankless job,” said the mayor. Councilor and immdiate past mayor John Ruocco said he “wanted to wish Councilman Escobar well as he goes off and does other things, other than staying up here on the dais.”
Coumcilman Clemente Osso said of Escobar: “Iʼve known John for a while. I believe him to truly care about the well-being of town and for him to always be generous with his time.”
Councilwoman Janetta Trochimiuk thanked Escobar for his
service on council, noting he “was instrumental in supporting the Patterson Street development” now under construction on the former Waste Management transfer station site. She noted the new development was estimated to “bring a substantial increase in tax revenues to the town.”
She said Escobar has “been a supporter and will always continue to be a supporter” of local police, fire and EMS services by “always putting safety first.” Escobar is also a firefighter for the city of Englewood.
Moreover, Trochimiuk said Escobar was “a champion” for local sports associations and was “always a voice” for the townʼs more than 1,000 athletes. She also noted he was “a leader” in pushing for improvements at Centennial FIeld and Memorial Field.
“John has always said what was on his mind and he has always been a man of his word,” she added. “Itʼs been a pleasure serving with him, I want to thank him for his service, I want to wish him continued success in all of his future endeavors,” Trochimiuk said.
Councilor Robert Colletti thanked Escobar for his years on the council and “all the years that you and your wife, Trish, have volunteered time to the Hillsdale
Hawks organization. Your service to the community goes far beyond what has occurred on this dais, so thank you,” said Colletti.
He thanked Escobar for being his running mate, “for engaging me, for having faith in me, and ultimately, for your guidance in the process, and your continued guidance means the world to me. Itʼs been a great pleasure getting to know you better through this process,” Colletti added.
Councilor Justin Fox thanked Escobar for his six years on council, noting he “served the borough with honor and dignity.” He said Escobar was not only a colleague but “also a friend” who encouraged him to get involved with local politics. “I donʼt know if I should thank you for this but youʼre the reason I got into politics,” he said, adding levity to the remarks.
Fox said that Escobar will “be greatly missed on this dais and I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.”
Escobar said he wasnʼt prepared to talk on Dec. 10 but would have comments soon. “Iʼd like to thank everybody here for their kind words... I do want to thank everybody. Itʼs really been a pleasure, and itʼs bittersweet, but itʼs time to move on too,” he added.
ESCOBAR
Kindergarten pre-registration opening
Parents and guardians of children residing in the Borough of Westwood or the Township of Washington who will turn 5 years old on or before Oct. 1, 2025, are invited to begin pre-registration for the 2025-26 kindergarten school year starting Jan. 6, 2025.
The Westwood Regional School District has outlined the
steps for pre-registration on its website. Families should visit the district site and navigate to Menu > Families > Student Registration, then select 2025-26 Kindergarten Registration There, they will find instructions for the online pre-registration process, important registration procedures, and downloadable checklists and forms.
This phase is for pre-registration only. Students will not be officially enrolled until all required documentation has been submitted by the parent(s) or guardian(s).
For questions, contact district registrar Robert Cebula at robert.cebula@wwrsd.org.
Toysandjoy
Members of the Joseph F. Lamb Assembly proudly participated in the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Drive, collecting a wealth of 241 toys and games. The Assembly, representing 11 Knights of Columbus Councils across northern New Jersey, extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this effort, asking Pascack Press to relay: “Your generosity has helped bring joy to children in need during this holiday season.”
FROM PAGE 4
ues to hold significance in the Jewish culture of the Pascack Valley. By the 1920s, there were approximately 15 Jewish families in the greater Pascack Valley area. Temple Emanuel, named in memory of Charles Emanuel, was incorporated in 1929 under the leadership of Dr. David Goldberg, a physician who began practicing in Westwood in 1925. Sarah
Emanuel donated $5,000 in her late husbandʼs memory to help the congregation purchase land at St. Nicholas and Washington avenues in Westwood. The original Temple Emanuel was built there in 1936, and in 1981, the congregation moved to its current location in Woodcliff Lake.
Editor’s note: Bergen County 2024 is home to a sign ificant Jewish community, with an estimated 228,000 Jewish residents in the northern part of t he state, including Bergen, Essex, Morris, and Passaic counties.
“IHA students have already attended two Midnight Runs in New York City to provide food, clothes, and conversations with individuals experiencing homelessness,” Vaughn says.
She quotes Ash, saying, “The dedication to service at IHA is truly inspirational, as these students give up their Friday evening and put their faith into action by ministering to people in need and serving approximately 150 meals at each Midnight Run. Before they leave for New York City, students participate in a prayer service to remind them that authentic service is rooted in the love of Christ and that we serve others because Christ calls us to.”
In addition to the Midnight Runs, Campus Ministry also held its annual Christmas drive and visit to Sacred Heart School in Jersey City. On Dec. 11, students spread Christmas joy and love to Sacred Heart students and delivered more than 160 bags of special treats. Due to the many generous Christmas Drive donations, students were able to fill each bag with gift cards, boxes of candy, and new books for each grade level.
SALE NEW YEAR’S
IHA’s AnnaMarieVaughn: “Our students embrace IHA’s commitment to service. We are so proud of all that our students have accomplished as they continue to use their amazing gifts in service to others.” Courtesy photo.
Additionally, according to Vaughn, IHA hosted its annual Thanksgiving dinner on Nov. 26 for senior citizens in the schoolʼs cafeteria. “More than 200 senior citizens attended the event, where they were treated to a free dinner and raffle prizes. This special event is hosted annually and is a wonderful way to share the blessings of IHA with our older friends in the community.”
Vaughn reports, “Our students truly embrace IHAʼs commitment to service. We are so proud of all that our students have accomplished as they continue to use their amazing gifts in service to others.”
Founded in 1960, Immaculate Heart Academy is an all-girls Catholic regional high school of the Archdio-
cese of Newark presently celebrating its 65th year. A Blue Ribbon School, IHA enrolls approximately 650 girls in a competitive college preparatory program from more than 90 towns in Bergen, Passaic, Morris, Hudson, and Essex counties in New Jersey and nearly 30 towns in Rockland and Orange counties in New York.
Over the years, IHA has continually grown and evolved, fortifying its academics, activities, and facilities to prepare students for further education, and for the enhancement of society through their personal, professional, and spiritual gifts.
Immaculate Heart Academy is at 500 Van Emburgh Ave., Township of Washington.
O UR LADYOF M ERCY C ATHOLIC C HURCH T WO F REMONT AVENUE PARK R IDGE , N EW J ERSEY 07656
WEEKEND MASS SCHEDULE
Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:30 PM Sunday Masses: 7:30 AM (no music) 9:30 AM 11:00 AM 12:30 PM - Spanish Evening: 6:15 PM
DAILY MASS
Monday thru Friday 6:30 am and 8:30 am Saturday Morning: 8:30 AM
eats Dining & Cooking Guide
Madden:
FROM PAGE 1
Madden began his journey with the Park Ridge Police Department on Jan. 5, 1987. Rising through the ranks as a p atrolman, detective, detective sergeant, lieutenant, and captain, he took the helm as chief in 2007.
During his tenure, Madden oversaw the departmentʼs operations, ensuring it upheld the highest professional standards.
“Chief Madden provided the leadership and team-building skills necessary to create a safe community for Park Ridge residents,” Misciagna said. “He worked tirelessly to ensure that all members of the department received the training and equipment needed to perform their jobs effectively.”
Maddenʼs tenure emphasized community policing, professional development, and leveraging technology to enhance public safety. His initiatives included youth police academies and events like “Back to Scoop” night, which strengthened ties between residents and the department.
Residents and colleagues expressed their gratitude for Maddenʼs years of service. Barbara Berenson Martin wrote, “Congratulations and thank you for your years of service to this community.”
Adriane Hogan McCullagh recalled how Madden made her family feel welcome at a DARE event early in his tenure as chief. “Youʼve done a fantastic job and
deserve lots of relaxation and fun in your future!” she shared.
Maddenʼs leadership extended beyond Park Ridge. In 2018, he served as the 93rd president of the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and holds a masterʼs degree in human resources from Seton Hall University.
Misciagna praised Maddenʼs ethical leadership in particular, noting, “His strong character and ethical values are reflected in the success of the Park Ridge Police Department. He implemented changes that encouraged positive relationships between officers and residents, which remain a hallmark of his legacy.”
Looking to the Future
As Madden steps into retirement, the borough has initiated the process of selecting his successor. An officer in charge is overseeing the department during the transition, and an announcement is expected in the coming weeks.
For Madden, the next chapter includes spending more time with his family, traveling, and pursuing hobbies. “It has been the honor of
a lifetime to serve Park Ridge,” he told Pascack Press on Dec. 23. “This community and this department mean everything to me.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Madden highlighted several career achievements:
• Introducing advanced management and leadership theories to the department through professional development.
•Being part of the hiring or promotion process for all current officers. “Iʼm very proud that we have so many homegrown, highquality men and women who will continue the legacy of providing excellent police service,
• Making a positi ence in peopleʼs lives through community service, including v unteering with the Ne Special Olympics and the Bergen County Police Foundation.
Asked to share advice for the next chief, Madden said, “Honor the badge, treat everyone with respect, and be a person of good character, ethics, and integrity
Continue to educate yourself and always strive to ʻsharpen the saw.ʼ”
As he bid farewell to the department and the community he served, Madden expressed satis-
faction with his legacy. “I will walk away with my head held high, knowing I made a positive
impact on my
department, and the residents of Park Ridge.”
MADDEN
Park Ridge Police Chief Joseph Madden’s walk-out ceremony, Dec. 18, 2024, capped a remarkable career of public service. Photos: Park Ridge Police Department via Facebook.
Vintage Punch and Judy bank turns up in renovation
BYJONFELZ R.Z.M. FINE ARTS & ANTIQUES INC.
Hi, Jon,
As my husb and was replacing the walls on the t hird floor of our new house in Closter, we found the item p ictured— along with a small bag of old coins—in a wooden box Am I correct in assuming it was something intended to be mounted to the wall? Perhaps in a childʼs room? It stands 8 inches and says Buffalo, New York on the bottom.
—Christine from Alpine
Hi, Christine, You turned up a wonderful
Senior appraiser Jon Felz of R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. answers yourquestions on fine art,American coins,and great antiques.Send your questions and photos to rzmantique@aol.com
antique cast-iron mechanical toy bank depicting a Punch and Judy puppet show, produced in the 1880s by the Shepard Hardware Co. of Buffalo, N.Y.
Portable Punch and Judy shows attracted Americans of all ages to parks and circuses during t he 19th century. “Bad boy” Punch always seemed to get away with mischief, delighting his audience.
Among the toy versions of
t hese characters in action are antique mechanical banks, which made saving money fun for thrifty little ones. Mechanical b anks (contrasted with still banks) were first manufactured in the late 1800s as the middle class emerged and grew in prosperity
Punch and Judy is a traditional puppet show featuring Mr.Punch and his wife,Judy.The performance consists of a sequence of short scenes,each depicting an interaction between two characters,most typically Mr.Punch and one other character who usually falls victim to Punch’s slapstick.The Daily Telegraph called Punch and Judy "a staple of the British seaside scene.”The various episodes of Punch comedy—often provoking shocked laughter—are dominated by the clowning of Mr.Punch.
The figure who later became Mr.Punch made his first recorded appearance in England on May 9,1662,which is traditionally reckoned as Punch’s UK birthday.— Via The Daily Telegraph, cited in Wikipedia
amid the Industrial Revolution. Collectors consider 1869–1930 the golden age of cast iron banks. Most mechanical banks I encounter are reproductions imported from China. Fortunately, yours is authentic. The action is controlled by two levers. The first, at the top, locks t he characters in position. To
Fun for adults at River Vale
Public Library
The River Vale Free Public Library, at 412 Rivervale Road, offers a variety of engaging programs scheduled for adults this December. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, these events offer opportunities for learning, creativity, and entertainment.
• Library clubs include Knit
& Crochet sessions on Friday, Dec. 27, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mah Jongg enthusiasts can join on Saturday, Dec. 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Registration is required for all programs. For more information or to sign up, visit rivervalelibrary.org or call the library at 201-391-2323.
make a deposit, place a coin on wife Judyʼs tray; the lever at the bottom causes Judy to deposit the coin while husband Punch tries to hit her with a club
T he foremost criteria in determining value on these banks is the percentage of original paint remaining. The paint on your bank appears to be approximately 90% intact.
There were two versions of this mechanical bank produced. Yours features large lettering along the top, making it the rarer version. Assuming this toy is still operable, its market value is $2,000. Perhaps the coins you found with your mechanical bank were saved in it by a youngster from long ago.
R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. is based at 132 Dexter Ave., Pearl River,N.Y.Call (845) 7351313 or visit rzmantiques.com.
eats Dining & Cooking Guide
CERT adds seven to vital role in township
The River Vale Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) welcomed seven new members in December following the completion of an eight-week training program. Participants
received training in terrorism awareness, disaster psychology, basic fire extinguishment, disaster first aid, and light search and rescue.
The program concluded with
each member receiving a CERT equipment backpack and participating in a practical exercise to apply their newly acquired skills and equipment.
The CERT team plays a vital
P Paassccaacck k P Prreesss s welcomes press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements and event photographs from all towns in the Pascack Valley. Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net
role in Township events, working to ensure the safety and security of River Vale residents.
The next CERT training course is scheduled for the spring.
For more information on membership, contact Linda Wayne at sun384@aol.com or Bill Peters at FireAppWP@aol.com.
RIVER VALE
New River Vale CERT members, left to right, are Eric Campenot, Donnamarie Jones, Matt Montagna, Maureen Vollers, Suzy Costello, Fran Blackgrove, and William Costello.
River Vale CERT coordinators Linda Wayne and Bill Peters present a plaque to Paramus CERT coordinator Eric Boettcher in appreciation for conducting the training for the new members.
eats Dining & Cooking Guide
Heroes:
FROM PAGE 1
happens every day — not enough time recognizing what it means to be a great citizen in the greatest country in the world.”
Honorees from the Pascack Valley:
• Daniel “Dan” Zambrano, Westwood – In 2024, Dan successfully nominated Downtown Westwoodʼs 232-year-old European Copper Beech Tree for the NJDEPʼs Big and Heritage Tree List. He also helped organize Westwoodʼs first Juneteenth Tree Planting Celebration and leads the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee, where he works to enhance the local tree canopy, benefitting both the environment and residentsʼutility costs.
• Rebecca Miller Pringle, Hillsdale – Rebecca is senior vice commander for Bogota Post 5561 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. A decorated Desert Storm veteran, she raises awareness and funds to support homeless veterans and advocates for accessible housing. Rebecca also works as a licensed real estate broker assisting military families and volunteers with organizations such as Make-AWish.
• Jennifer Charnow, Woodcliff Lake – Jennifer is Woodcliff Lakeʼs Stigma-Free coordinator, promoting mental health awareness and substance-free environments. She created the Parent Academy program to provide resources on parenting and mental health. Jennifer is co-president of the Pascack Hills High School
Parent Faculty Association and vice president of the Wilder Family Foundation, which supports public safety and assists the homeless.
• Daniel OʼBrien, Emerson –
A firefighter for more than 50 years, Dan joined the Westwood Fire Department at age 18 and has dedicated his life to public service.
In November, he transported 16 generators to North Carolina to aid in Hurricane Helene relief efforts, where many residents remain without power, potentially until spring 2025.
Moved by the devastation, OʼBrien began collecting surplus equipment from New Jersey fire departments and launched a GoFundMe campaign to purchase additional used fire equipment, including tankers, pumpers, and ladder trucks. He personally cov-
ers transportation costs, with each trip costing approximately $1,500 in fuel.
Local Reactions
Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo praised Charnowʼs recognition, writing, “Proud of our resident Jen Charnow. On Dec. 16, Congressman Josh Gottheimer will present Jen with the Hometown Hero award for her prevention work with the Hills Valley Coalition and for the Parent Academy program she created. Collectively she has done over 40 programs for our community.”
Residents cheered the post, adding their support:
•Thank you, Jen, for everything you do for our community! This recognition is very much deserved! — Rachel Diamond
• Congratulations, Jen! So very well deserved! You are making a difference with each and every program! — Lisa Brodsky
• Thank you, Jen, for all your hard work! So glad youʼre being recognized. — Samantha Anger-
man
• Fantastic — she has helped so many families! — Councilwoman Jacquie Gadaletta
Reflecting on her partnership with Charnow, Lee Ann Giangrasso Schwartz, a fellow PFA member, said: “Over the last 15 or so years of being on multiple PFAs, I have gotten to meet some really passionate and caring people. One of the absolute best is Jen Charnow. Between the PHHS PFA, the WCL PFA, Parent Academy, the Hills Valley Coalition, and the Woodcliff Lake StigmaFree committee, she works tirelessly to help our kids. And sheʼs still going! No wonder she was recently recognized as a Hometown Hero! In a world full of ʻKarens,ʼbe a Jen instead.”
Charnow also highlighted her collaborative work with Schwartz, stating, “I was the PHHS PFA copresident with Lee Ann for two years and worked with her on the WCL PFA for years when our kids were still in that district. Itʼs been an incredible journey of teamwork
and dedication to our childrenʼs well-being.”
Charnow thanked Rendo for his nomination, saying, “Your support, along with the council, Woodcliff Lake Police Department, and WCL community as a whole, means the world to me. I canʼt change the world, but I can make a positive difference in my little slice of the universe. So happy I get to do it in Woodcliff Lake.”
She added, “Today was incredible! Hearing about all the wonderful things other New Jerseyans do just inspired me to go out and do even more!”
Zambrano expressed his gratitude, posting: “Honored to be one of Rep. Josh Gottheimerʼs 5th District Hometown Heroes today. Leading the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee wouldnʼt be possible without the guidance of Councilwoman Erin Collins. Thanks for the nomination, along with Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo and the rest of
CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
Left: Jen Charnow, backed by her kids Jacob and Madeline, shows off her U.S. House of Representatives Hometown Hero Award as presented by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5) on Dec. 16, 2024. Right: Hillsdale Mayor Michael Sheinfield helps celebrate Rebecca Miller Pringle’s award, noting, “Stories of heroism, volunteerism, and dedication were heard throughout the morning about these brave and selfless individuals.” Courtesy photos.
eats Dining & Cooking Guide
FROM PAGE 14
the governing body, who have taken note of the importance of preserving, maintaining, and restoring our tree canopy. I give full credit for the adopt-a-drain program to the Westwood Environmental Advisory Committee! I look forward to continuing my next three-year term and elevating our boroughʼs tree data with a full street tree inventory. Also, thanks to Jenna Kronenberg for supporting my volunteer efforts!”
Hillsdale Mayor Michael Sheinfield celebrated Miller Pringleʼs award, noting, “Stories of heroism, volunteerism, and dedication were heard throughout the morning about these brave and selfless individuals.”
Miller Pringle was joined by Brigadier Gen. (Ret.) Dr. Cindy Jebb, Bogota VFW Post 5561 Commander Alex Hernandez, Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton, and other local officials.
Sheinfield added, “Rebecca has been a public servant for decades, beginning with her time in the U.S. Army. She was honorably discharged with commendations and went on to serve with the U.S. Department of Labor. She has brought that same dedication to Hillsdale, helping countless veterans and neighbors along the way.”
Recipients from Further Afield in the Fifth District
• Dr. Scott Fisher, Leonia — Dr. Fisher has served in the Army since 2009, achieving the
rank of U.S. Army major, and continues to serve in the active reserves. He has worked for the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon and is a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he received a Bronze Star for counterterrorism activities. In addition to serving as a councilman for Leonia, he is a volunteer firefighter, police commissioner, and Office of Emergency Management liaison. Dr. Fisher is the author of two books: “Axis of Evil World Tour” and “Work Hard for the Kims.” He is also an assistant professor in the security studies department at New Jersey City University.
• Lil Corcoran, Ridgewood — For the past eight years, Lil has served as the executive director of the Womenʼs Rights Information Center (WRIC), a life-saving nonprofit dedicated to trauma healing, career services, legal consultations, and housing assistance. Under her leadership, WRIC has dramatically expanded its programs and services, doubling its efforts during the pandemic to become the unique resource it is today. A licensed professional counselor, Lil supports individuals facing trauma, intimate partner abuse, severe grief, addiction, and more. She is also a certified equine therapist, using her love of horses to assist abuse survivors. Additionally, Lil has educated thousands of students, teachers, crisis response teams, and others, sharing her expertise to help even more people in need.
• Hackensack Fire Deputy Chief John Ingallinera and the Hackensack Fire Department Fourth Platoon, Hackensack John has served with the Hacken-
sack Fire Department for 27 years, including more than eight years as deputy chief in charge of the Fourth Platoon. Under his leadership, the Fourth Platoon executed a high-angle rope rescue to save a woman who had fallen into a ravine after a tree branch broke. The team stabilized the victim and connected her to emergency medical care, exemplifying their expertise in specialized rescue operations.
• Steve Rogers, Tenafly
Steve is the CEO of the Kaplan JCC on the Palisades, where he has worked to expand the community center. He serves on the national board of directors for the Americans for Ben-Gurion University and, since 2019, has been vice president of the board of directors for NJY Camps, an organization fostering Jewish community and identity through inclusive summer camp experiences. Appointed by Governor Christie to the New Jersey-Israel
Commission, Steve has received the Temple Emanu-El Foundersʼ Award and the Jewish Theological Seminaryʼs Erich Holzer Community Service Award.
• Allison Lim, Ho-Ho-Kus Allison leads the Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden, cultivating organic produce for neighbors in need. She oversees planting, harvesting, education, tours, volunteer coordination, and donation efforts. As of November, the gar-
Put it to work and play:Rec’s Winter Program Guide
Westwood Recreation is gearing up for an exciting winter season with a variety of programs for residents of all ages. The 2025 Winter Program Guide is now available online, offering a comprehensive look at the opportunities for the Westwood and Pascack Valley community.
Registration begins at 9 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6, for Westwood residents. Nonresidents can register starting Monday, Jan. 13, space permitting, with additional program fees. Families can register through Community Pass or in person at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. Printed program guides are also available at the center.
The guide includes details on general registration, the 2025 registration and event calendar, and information on baseball, softball and track and field programs. It also highlights the Forever Young 55+ program, the SNAP: Special Needs Activity Program, facility and park rental options, and a preview of spring special events.
This winterʼs lineup offers something for everyone. Adults
can choose from classes like Culinary Classics, volleyball, circuit training, yoga, Zumba, menʼs open gym basketball, power volleyball, creative painting, and pickleball. Programs for children in grades K–9 include chess, yoga for kids, dance club, theater games and improv, LEGO Radical Rides, Create with Clay, Culinary Classics Teens, Cyber-Crawler Robot, Afterschool Kids Club, and indoor tennis. Younger children can enjoy indoor soccer, arts and crafts parent and me, Abrakadoodle Art, Mini-Movement Yoga parent and me, and creative ballet.
“These programs aim to provide a blend of fun, creativity, and community engagement,” said Recreation Director Gary Buchheister. “Weʼre proud to offer something for everyone, and we encourage families to explore all the opportunities available this winter.”
Highlights include the LEGO Radical Rides class, where kids can think like engineers using more than 10,000 LEGO bricks, and theater games and improv, which lets participants invent cre-
ative characters under the guidance of theater coach Hanna Harraty.
For more information, visit westwoodnj.gov/program-flyers or contact the rec at 201-664-7882 or recreation@westwoodnj.gov.
On Monday, Jan. 6 a team from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) will conduct an onsite assessment of the Woodcliff Lake Police Department as part of its voluntary accreditation process.
The assessment will evaluate the departmentʼs compliance with best practices in policies, procedures, management, operations, and support services.
Public Participation:
• Phone Comments: Call
201-749-2548 on Jan. 6 between 10 and 11 a.m. (five-minute limit; comments must address compliance with NJSACOP standards).
•Email Comments: Send to mcharnesky@wclpd.com.
For more information about the standards, contact Sgt. Michael Charnesky at 201-3918224 ext. 434.
Written comments can also be sent to the sccreditation program director at hdelgado@njsacop.org or mailed to NJSACOP Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, 751
Route 73 North, Suite 12, Marlton, NJ 08053.
Accreditation ensures accountability, reduces liability, and strengthens community trust. The assessment includes document review, interviews, and site visits, with results reported to the NJSACOP Commission for final accreditation decisions.
For further details, contact Sgt. Michael Charnesky at mcharnesky@wclpd.com or 201391-8224 ext. 434.
PASCACK PPASCACK PASCACK PASCACK ASCACK AUTO BODY
•
Theatre games and improv classes with theatre coach Hanna Harraty lets kids get dramatic with their own creative characters. Westwood Recreation Department photo.
Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
Borough’s interest in drone regulation grounded
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
EMERSON
The borough attorney informed local officials on Dec. 17 that creating a drone ordinance would be “improper” and “irrelevant” because the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has sole jurisdiction over airspace and aerial objects.
Mayor Danielle DiPaola initiated the discussion, citing drones she had seen in the area, and asked whether the borough should enact an ordinance, as some other towns have. She noted that Emerson lacks such regulations.
Public interest in drones has grown in recent months, with residents across North Jersey observing increased sightings. Some drones have been deemed suspicious by onlookers, though offi-
RIVER VALE
cials clarified that many sightings might actually involve small planes, as objects at a distance can be hard to identify accurately.
While it is unclear how many Pascack Valley towns have drone ordinances, some municipalities enacted rules in recent years as drones gained popularity, aiming to address privacy concerns and local airspace use.
DiPaola posed a hypothetical scenario about a drone flying over a neighborʼs pool where children are playing, suggesting that an ordinance could address such privacy concerns. Borough attorney John McCann countered, stating, “Itʼs FAA. It doesnʼt matter; FAA trumps whatever a town does. The FAA is the jurisdiction for that, not the municipality.”
When DiPaola asked for clarification, McCann reiterated, “The FAA has jurisdiction, you donʼt.” She responded, “So we donʼt need
a drone ordinance, youʼre telling me,” to which McCann affirmed, “It would be irrelevant,” emphasizing that such an ordinance would also be improper.
Earlier, DiPaola acknowledged local drone sightings, saying, “I personally donʼt think youʼre crazy because Iʼve seen them too.” She noted that during a Dec. 16 meeting with officials from Homeland Security, the FAA, and the FBI, she was assured the drones were not related to foreign interference or threats.
However, she said, “Everyone is at liberty to make (up) their own opinion” about the drones.
DiPaola advised residents not to interfere with drones, including shining lasers at them, which could pose risks to pilots, passengers, and people on the ground. She warned that some supposed drones might actually be planes.
Corcoran Infinity Properties, Jersey Cares annual coat drive
For the fourth consecutive year, Corcoran Infinity Propertiesʼ River Vale office is proud to partner with the Jersey Cares Annual Coat Drive to bring warmth to those in need this winter. This meaningful initiative collects new and gently used coats for men, women, children, and infants, ensuring that our neighbors facing tough times can stay warm during the cold months.
bors, friends, and clients to contribute to this impactful cause. A single coat from your closet can make a world of difference for someone in need.”
How to Donate
Drop off your coats, neatly packed in plastic bags, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, at Corcoran Infinity Properties, 213 Rivervale Road, River Vale. Corcoran Infinity Properties is accepting
donations until Jan. 6, 2025. For more information, call Bonnie Borghi at 201-666-0777.
Learn More
“At Corcoran Infinity Properties, community is at the heart of what we do. With offices in Alpine, Edgewater, and River Vale, our 90plus agents are dedicated to serving Northern New Jersey with unparalleled expertise and personalized service.
In the same discussion, DiPaola recounted her sightings of drones in Emerson, including over the reservoir and near her home, often appearing after 9:30 p.m. She mentioned reporting her observations to the police and sharing video evidence with the FBI.
Some residents expressed frustration that she did not share these sightings on Facebook, but she said she avoided doing so to avoid arguments.
Councilwoman Nicole Argenzia added, “I just think if they were something dangerous, they would have been shot down already by our military.” Most council members did not comment.
DiPaola encouraged residents to remain calm, saying, “We live in confusing times. Weʼve already been through COVID, and now we have this drone thing going on. I
like to say to people, ʻDonʼt worry about it until thereʼs something to worry about.ʼ” She suggested residents trust their instincts during what she described as “crazy times.”
The FAA released an update on Dec. 18, addressing common questions about drone usage: “More and more people are using drones, which means more people are noticing them in the sky. The FAA gets a lot of questions when people spot drones in their communities.”
The agency outlined general rules for recreational flyers, including keeping drones under 400 feet, staying within sight of the drone, avoiding other aircraft, and not endangering people or property.
For more information, visit the FAAʼs website at https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/what-know-about-drones.
Pascack Valley Briefs
Dorchester School Kindergarten registration
Dorchester Elementary School in Woodcliff Lake is accepting applications for Kindergarten registration for the 2025-26 school year. To be eligible for Kindergarten in September 2025, children must be 5years old by Oct. 1, 2025. To access the complete registration packet, please visit the
school website at www.woodclifflake.com. Navigate to Dorchester School, then click on Parent Information to find the New Student/Kindergarten Registration link. The district requests that you email a completed registration form along with all required documentation, as outlined on the Kindergarten Registration page, by Friday, Feb. 7. In-person registration will also be available during the week of Feb. 3–7. For any questions, please call the main office at (201) 9305600 ext. 100.
St. Andrew’s 50+ Club meets Jan. 8
Join us for our first meeting of the new year! Enjoy a delicious luncheon and fun games of bingo with prizes on Wednesday, Jan. 8, at 1 p.m. in the school gym. Annual dues of $15 will be collected at the meeting. Please consider bringing an item or donation for the food pantry. Questions? Call Elaine at 201-664-7037. “We look forward to seeing you there!”
Heads up on Day of Service
The New Jersey State Federation of Womenʼs Clubs will be holding a Day of Service on Jan. 20. Each district in the state will have a Day of Service that will support its own area. This year items collected will go to The Center For Family Services, a leading nonprofit social services provider.
Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
DR. KAPLAN: Start the New Year with healthy habits
The New Year is the perfect time to embrace habits that strengthen both your brain and body. Activities like learning Sudoku, trying a new musical instrument, practicing meditation, or even starting a new language can boost your memory and overall mental health. Combined with lifestyle changes like eating well, staying active, getting enough sleep, and spending time outdoors, these habits can also enhance your immune system and
cognitive function.
Build a Strong Immune System
Keeping your immune system strong is critical for overall health. Small lifestyle adjustments, such as spending time in the sun for Vitamin D, breathing fresh air, and getting plenty of movement, are powerful immune boosters. Many people are deficient in vitamin D, which plays a vital role in fighting infections and maintaining a healthy immune response. Check your blood work, and aim for a healthy vitamin D range of around 60 ng/mL, as recommended by functional medicine practitioners.
To support your health, Kaplan Brain & Body is giving away a FREE bottle of Vitamin D
Save the dates: Three-part series on child safety
The Womanʼs Club of Westwood is launching a new educational series to provide parents and caregivers with critical tools for child safety. Organized by The Contemporaries committee, the parenting series will feature three workshops addressing child safety, assault prevention, and cyberbullying. These events will be held at the Womanʼs Club of Westwood clubhouse, 205 Kinderkamack Road, throughout 2025.
“Child Safety & Assault Prevention” will take place Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. This session, led by certified New Jersey Child Assault Prevention (CAP) facilitator Debbie Tedino and co-organizer Tina Lowry, will focus on common assault scenarios, such as bullying, stranger abduction, and abuse by known adults. Both women are members of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood and bring extensive experience to the program. The workshop will guide attendees on recognizing signs of abuse, understanding legal responsibilities for reporting abuse or neglect, and accessing community resources. It will emphasize communication strategies for discussing sensitive topics with children and responding to crises.
“All children deserve to be safe, strong, and free,” said Tedino, who has more than 20 years of experience as the Bergen County coordinator for NJ CAP.
Deen Meloro, president of the
Womanʼs Club of Westwood, praised the initiative: “This is an incredibly important topic, and Iʼm thrilled to see Debbie and Tina leading our next educational series. Their expertise and passion will help parents and caregivers protect our children and create a safer community ”
The second session, “Cyberbullying Prevention,” is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18 at 7 p.m. Tedino and Lowry will collaborate with the New Jersey State Police and the Attorney Generalʼs Office to provide strategies for preventing online bullying, exploitation, and abuse.
The series is open to the public. Admission is free for club members, with a suggested donation of $5 for nonmembers. Pay at the door by exact cash, or check or Venmo. Proceeds support the clubʼs philanthropic efforts. Registration is required at westwoodwomansclub.org/events-1.
Founded in 1919, the Womanʼs Club of Westwood celebrates 105 years of service in 2024. The clubʼs mission is to enhance the well-being of the Westwood community through charitable, social, educational, and cultural initiatives. The Contemporaries committee, launched in 2023, focuses on engaging a new generation of local women in the clubʼs philanthropic efforts. Visit westwoodwomansclub.org and follow on social media.
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Understanding how your brain works is a crucial step in improving its function. At Kaplan Brain & Body, we offer qEEG brain mapping, an innovative, non-invasive tool that measures brain waves to identify areas of weakness or overactivity. By addressing these imbalances, we can help you boost focus, reduce stress, and improve overall cognitive performance. The procedure is quick, painless, and takes
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Daily brain health practices can make a significant difference in how you feel and function. Eat fresh, unprocessed foods, and avoid sugar, alcohol, and stimulants; regular movement, especially outdoors, keeps your brain and body healthy; prioritize restful sleep to support brain recovery and immune function; meditate, spend time in nature, and focus on reducing stress to lower cortisol levels, which can suppress the immune system.
For more tips and in-depth
advice, check out Dr. Eric Kaplanʼs best-selling book, “Boost Your Brainpower: A Guide to Improving Your Memory and Focus.” Available for 50% off through the end of the year, this signed copy is just $10 (normally $20). The book includes practical exercises, brain tips, meal plans, and cutting-edge research to help you function better, feel better, and live better. Subscribe to our YouTube channel, Kaplan Brain and Body, where youʼll find videos packed with actionable advice to improve your memory, focus, and overall health. With 2025 just around the corner, thereʼs no better time to focus on your health. Call 201-2612150 or visit kaplandc.com to take the first step. Itʼs a no-brainer!
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SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY... AND BEYOND
When looking for a firm to help you work toward your financial goals – whether itʼs affording retirement, helping a child or grandchild pay for higher education, or making a luxury purchase, such as vacation home – you obviously want to find one with the resources you need.
But I think thereʼs more to it than that; you should seek one
thatʼs committed to supporting our community and helping make the world a better place.
At Wells Fargo & Company, for example, all employees are called to:
• Be leaders
• Be engaged and connected in our communities
• Value and promote diversity and inclusion in every aspect of our business
One way employees are encouraged to be leaders is by becoming members of board of directors at nonprofit organizations.
We know that employees play a valuable role in improving the lives of individuals and families, and board service is one way of demonstrating commitment to our communities.
To help deal with the significant time commitment that a board membership, or other charitable activity, can represent, Wells Fargo & Co. allots each employee 16 hours of paid time per year to be used exclusively for volunteer work.
The Community Care Grants
program, governed and funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation, recognizes employees for their financial giving and volunteer service activities – including board service. Through this program, an employee can qualify for up to $2,000 per year in Community Care Grants. Once an employee has received a grant, they can choose which eligible charities theyʼd like to support by directing the funds to any of the approximately one million eligible charities.
Leveraging our strengths
While our primary motivation is the chance to help others, we also see participating in community leadership as an opportunity for employees to commit to a cause, issue, or organization where they have an affinity and a passion.
This experience can help them leverage their strengths and expertise, develop new skills, and tackle new challenges.
Investment and
Insurance Products are:
• Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency
• Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate
• Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested
On top of that, volunteering offers a variety of development opportunities, including hands-on learning, either on the job or through volunteer activities or spe-
cial assignments. Volunteering helps us to:
• Positively shape our communities
• Expand community connections with others where we live and work
• Expand our networks, gain visibility, and build business acumen
• Build greater insight by being a “voice” for inclusion and build diversity awareness and cultural competence.
Promoting diversity
Wells Fargo & Co. focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our strategic framework is focused on driving outcomes in three key areas:
• Workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion outcomes (recruitment, development, engagement, and retention)
• Marketplace outcomes (growing market share in diverse market segments and identifying new and improving existing relationships with diverse suppliers)
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion advocacy activities (supporting regulatory, externalrelationship, and reputationbuilding efforts as well as personal accountability for diversity, equity, and inclusion advocacy)
Article was written byWells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director - Investments in Park Ridge at (201) 505-0472.
The Bergen County Board of Commissioners 2025 Reorganization Meeting is Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at 2 Bergen County Plaza, 1st Floor Conference Room, in Hackensack. During the meeting, Commissioners Thomas J. Sullivan, Steven Tanelli, and Tracy Silna Zur will take their oaths of office. Sheriff Anthony Cureton will also be sworn in for his new term. The Commissioners will nominate and elect the 2025 Board leadership,
setting the stage for the countyʼs governance in the coming year.
This annual reorganization meeting is a key moment for the county, affirming leadership roles and outlining priorities for the year ahead. Residents are welcome to attend and witness the proceedings as Bergen Countyʼs elected officials prepare to serve the community in 2025.
For more information, visit the Bergen County website or the Commissionersʼ Facebook page.
ERIC KOHLMEIER
Heroes:
den has harvested 730 pounds of produce, most of which has been donated to local nonprofits to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to those facing hunger.
• Devraj Dhupar, Upper Saddle River As co-president and founder of the Saddle River Day School chapter of the HELP Foundation, Devraj has raised nearly $50,000 over three years to support four children at an orphanage in India. Devraj has visited the ashram, tutoring and playing with the children, and shared his experiences in a presentation to raise awareness and recruit more participants for the HELP Foundation. A recipient of the HELP Foundation Outstanding Leadership Award, Devraj is preparing for college.
• Dr. Raffaele “Ralph” Bernardo, Englewood Cliffs Dr. Bernardo spearheaded the creation of Valley Health Systemʼs Center for LGBTQ+ Care to address the lack of specialized health care services for the LGBTQ+ community in Northern New Jersey. As medical director, he fosters a welcoming environment for patients. This year, he secured a $130,000 Women for Health grant to support the centerʼs mission by enhancing cultural understanding among Valleyʼs health care providers.
• Hillary Joy Cohen, MD, MPH, Haworth — As an emergency medicine physician, Dr. Cohen has responded to countless critical situations, including heart attacks, strokes, and traumatic injuries. As chief of emergency medicine at Englewood Health, she developed protocols to improve hospital safety and mentored teams of clinicians. In 2015, she was promoted to chief medical officer. Under her leadership, Englewood Health was named a finalist for the American Hospital Associationʼs Foster G. McGaw Prize for Excellence in Community Service.
• Bergen County Sergeant Walter Hutchinson, New Milford — Hutchinson, a veteran
officer since 2004, received the Bergen County Sheriffʼs Office Departmental Award for assisting in life-saving CPR on an unresponsive child. He also coordinated efforts across multiple police departments to fulfill the Christmas wish of a 6-year-old boy with brain cancer, earning the Distinguished Member of the Year Award from the National Police Defense Foundation.
• Barbara Silvia (posthumous), Fort Lee A member of the Fort Lee Volunteer Ambulance Squad since 1979, Barbara responded to more than 12,000 calls during her 40-year tenure. She served as chief of the corps five times and received the EMS Lifetime Achievement Award from the New Jersey Office of EMS. Barbaraʼs dedication to her community left an indelible mark.
• Casey William Tutunjian
Ference, Demarest — During the pandemic, Casey volunteered weekly for the Dumont Food Pantry, collecting donations and starting “The Gift Pantry” to provide essential items to those in need. As president of the DwightEnglewood School Young Progressives Club, Casey promotes bipartisan dialogue with the Young Conservatives Club. Casey also founded the Northern Valley Soccer Youth Coach Program, addressing a local coaching shortage and helping high school students fulfill their volunteer hours.
• Anthony “Tony” Lupardi Jr. and Mark Lupardi, Closter — Tony has responded to over 8,000 calls during his firefighting career, including at the World Trade Center and a 54-car pileup. After suffering a rare arrhythmia following a strenuous rescue, Tony was saved by the very first
responders he had trained— including his brother Mark. Their dedication and lifelong service exemplify the strength of the firefighting community.
WESTWOOD
Early New Year’s party
Celebrate Westwood invites residents to ring in the New Year at the 6th Annual Westwood (Early) New Yearʼs Eve Celebration on Tuesday, Dec. 31, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at VeteransʼPark. Sponsored by the Borough of Westwood, with generous support from local businesses Hoop Dreamz and Sylvan Learning Center of Park Ridge, this family-friendly event promises an evening of fun and festivity.
The celebration will feature live music from Pascack Valleyʼs own high-energy, five-piece cover band, Side Show Heroes. Children will receive noise makers and glow sticks (while supplies last) to help get into the New Yearʼs spirit.
Guests can enjoy life-sized glowing characters roaming the park, photo opportunities, a childrenʼs craft station, and more. The
evening will culminate in an illuminated “ball drop” from the Westwood Fire Departmentʼs bucket truck, with a countdown at exactly 6 p.m. to welcome the New Year early.
Celebrate Westwood encourages attendees to support local businesses by exploring downtown Westwoodʼs dining and shopping options before and after the event. Be mindful of holiday hours and make reservations where necessary.
For more information visit celebratewestwood.org.
— Based on a press release by Peter Figueroa, speechwriter, office of Congressman Josh Gottheimer
Letters:
FROM PAGE 2
pass on Township property. My h omeownerʼs insurance confirmed that it would not cover any injuries or damages sustained on Township land. It is not my r esponsibility to maintain or ensure the safety of Township property (Block 102, Lot 7). The Townshipʼs refusal to address this issue poses physical injury and property damage risks to my family
Contrary to the Townshipʼs implication, I never requested the
removal of healthy trees. Of the 70 or so trees on Lot 7, some are visibly unhealthy.
After raising my concerns with the Township Council and writing a dozen letters over 18 months, I never received a written response from Township officials. Feeling ignored and disrespected, I filed “official misconduct” c harges against Administrator Rotella and Council President Paul Criscuolo in September 2023. However, during a probable cause hearing in March 2024 via Zoom at Saddle River Municipal Court, the judge dismissed my case.
The judge opened the hearing by stating it would last five min-
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utes. When I explained that I had been maintaining 2,000 square feet of Township property at my expense—cutting grass, removing leaves, and clearing debris—he dismissed my concerns, saying this was not specified in my complaint and would not be considered. When I argued that lawn maintenance should be part of the Townshipʼs responsibilities, the
judge ignored my comments and refused to let me ask further questions. I found the judge to be biased and dismissive.
I considered appealing the decision, but the cost of a $500 transcript and attorney fees was prohibitive. As instructed by the judge, I sent a letter to Mayor Bromberg and others on April 4, 2024, requesting an amicable res-
olution. I never received a reply. This experience has given me a greater appreciation for the old adage You canʼt fight city hall. It is yet another example of the lack of accountability and transparency displayed by River Vale Township officials toward their residents.
Frank Tercovich River Vale
Affordable-housing allies ship guide
Fair Share Housing Center ( FSHC), based in Cherry Hill, is leading the defense of the stateʼs affordable housing law against a lawsuit filed by Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali and approximately 26 other municipalities seeking to delay the stateʼs fourth-round housing deadlines.
The lawsuit, which challenges the constitutionality of New Jerseyʼs affordable housing framework, has heightened tensions around municipal obligations. Mercer County Superior Court Judge Robert Lougy plans to rule by Jan. 1, 2025, on whether to grant a stay ahead of the Jan. 31 deadline for towns to adopt their affordable housing numbers.
In support of municipalities, planners, and advocates, FSHC recently co-published a
comprehensive guide with the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ ( HCDNNJ). The guide offers timelines, compliance steps, and case studies of successful developments, providing essential tools for navigating the affordable housing process and ensuring public engagement.
In his organizationʼs December newsletter Fair Housing Today, FSHC executive director Adam Gordon alludes to Montvale and its allies — “two dozen historically exclusionary municipalities” — and underscores the importance of the law and timely compliance: “Delaying these obligations undermines years of progress in creating fair and inclusive communities.”
Gordon also points out disparities in housing burdens
across New Jersey, emphasizing the need for all municipalities to contribute their fair share.
The reportʼs acknowledgement page says the guide updates and revises “Developing Effective Municipal Housi ng Plans: A Guide for Nonprofits and Advocates on Implementing the New Jersey Supreme Courtʼs March 2015 Decision on Fair Share Housing,” published in May 2015 by the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey.
For more on affordable housing in the Pascack Valley, including concerns from Ghassali and others on “high-density housing,” visit thepressgroup.net. We welcome brief, respectful, signed letters to the editor on timely local topics.
— Staff writer John Snyder
PASCACK VALLEY
Prepare to file in 2025: Get ready for tax season
With the 2025 filing season quickly approaching, the Internal Revenue Service encouraged taxpayers to take key steps now to prepare for filing their 2024 federal income tax returns next year.
The IRS continues to improve taxpayer services to help people prepare for tax season with more digital tools and options available. The IRS encourages taxpayers to sign up now for an IRS Online Account to make tax season easier and help safeguard their tax information.
There are a number of things taxpayers can do to get ready as the end of 2024 nears and the start of the 2025 tax season approaches.
The IRSʼs Get Ready page on IRS.gov offers practical tips and resources to help taxpayers prepare. It highlights key updates and important steps for taxpayers to consider to make tax filing easier in 2025.
This reminder is part of a series designed to help taxpayers “Get Ready” for the upcoming filing season. Taking action now can reduce stress and ensure a smoother filing process next year.
Individuals can create or access their IRS Online Account at Online account for individuals. With an IRS Online Account, they
can:
•View key details from their most recent tax return, such as adjusted gross income.
• Request an Identity Protection PIN.
•Get account transcripts to include wage and income records.
•Sign tax forms like powers of attorney or tax information authorizations.
•View and edit language preferences and alternative media.
• Receive and view over 200 IRS electronic notices.
•View, make and cancel payments.
•Set up or change payment plans and check their balance.
Get an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN)
An IP PIN is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a federal tax return using an individualʼs Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Itʼs a vital tool for ensuring the safety of taxpayersʼpersonal and financial information.
New for the 2025 filing season, the IRS will accept Forms 1040, 1040-NR and 1040-SS even if a dependent has already been
claimed on a previously filed return, as long as the primary taxpayer on the second return includes a valid IP PIN. This change will reduce the time for the agency to receive the tax return and accelerate the issuance of tax refunds for those with duplicate dependent returns.
The best way to sign up for an IP PIN is through the IRS Online Account. If an individual is unable to create an Online Account, alternative methods are available, such as in-person authentication at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. More information is available on how to sign up at Get an identity protection PIN (IP PIN).
Deadline for 2024 last quarterly estimated payment is Jan. 15, 2025
Taxpayers with non-wage income—such as unemployment benefits, self-employment income, annuity payments or earnings from digital assets—may need to make estimated or additional tax payments. The Tax Withholding Estimator on IRS.gov can help wage earners determine if they need to make an additional payment to avoid an unexpected tax bill when filing their return.
To make tax time easier, tax-
payers should establish an effective record-keeping system, either electronic or paper, to organize all important documents in one place. This includes year-end income forms such as Forms W-2 from employers, Forms 1099 from banks or other payers, Forms
1099-K from third-party payment networks, Forms 1099-NEC for nonemployee compensation, Forms 1099-MISC for miscellaneous income, Forms 1099-INT for interest income and records of all digital asset transactions. For more, visit IRS.gov.
YA GOTTA GET GHADA!
BY JIMMILLER
Dear Savvy Senior, Is there a rule of thumb on how long someone should keep their financial paperwork? I have file cabinets full of old receipts, bank and brokerage statements, tax returns and more that I would like to toss.
—Recently Retired
Dear Recently, Itʼs a great question. As we get older and our financial life gets more complicated, itʼs difficult to know how long to keep old financial records and paperwork and when itʼs safe to get rid of them. Some things youʼll need to hold on to for your whole life and others for just a month or so. Hereʼs a checklist Iʼve created that can help you determine what to save and what you can throw away.
Keep One Month
•ATM receipts and bankdeposit slips, as soon as you match them up with your monthly statement.
THE SAVVY SENIOR:
How long to keep tax, other records?
•Credit card receipts after you get your statement, unless you might return the item or need proof of purchase for a warranty.
• Credit card statements that do not have a tax-related expense on them.
•Utility bills when the following monthʼs bill arrives showing that your prior payment was received. If you wish to track utility usage over time, you may want to keep them for a year, or if you deduct a home office on your taxes keep them for seven years.
To avoid identity theft, be sure you shred anything you throw away that contains your personal or financial information.
Keep One Year
•Paycheck stubs until you get your W-2 in January to check its accuracy.
•Bank statements (savings and checking account) to confirm your 1099s.
•Brokerage, 401(k), IRA and other investment statements until you get your annual summary (keep longer for tax purposes if they show a gain or loss).
•Receipts for health care bills in case you qualify for a med-
ical deduction.
Keep Seven Years
Supporting documents for your taxes, including W-2s, 1099s, and receipts or canceled checks that substantiate deductions. The IRS usually has up to three years after you file to audit you but may look back up to six years if it suspects you substantially underreported income or committed fraud.
Keep Indefinitely
•Tax returns with proof of filing and payment. You should keep these for at least seven years, but many people keep them forever because they provide a record of your financial history.
•IRS forms that you filed when making nondeductible contributions to a traditional IRA or a Roth conversion.
PASCACK VALLEY
• Retirement and brokerage account annual statements as long as you hold those investments.
• Defined-benefit pension plan documents.
•Savings bonds until redeemed.
•Loan documents until the loan is paid off.
• Vehicle titles and registration information as long as you own the car, boat, truck, or other vehicle.
•Insurance policies as long as you have them.
•Warranties or receipts for big-ticket purchases for as long as you own the item, to support warranty and insurance claims.
Keep Forever
Personal and family records like birth certificates, marriage license, divorce papers, Social Security cards, military discharge
papers and estate-planning documents including a power of attorney, will, trust and advanced directive. Keep these in a fireproof safe or safe-deposit box.
Reduce Your Paper
To reduce your paper clutter, consider digitizing your documents by scanning them and converting them into PDF files so you can store them on your computer and back them up onto a cloud like Microsoft OneDrive, Apple iCloud or iDrive.
You can also reduce your future paper load by switching to electronic statements and records whenever possible.
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.
Scholarship for young women leaders
The Community Chest of Eastern Bergen County is accepting applications for its Eighth Annual High School Young Womenʼs Leadership Awards. High school juniors and seniors identifying as female and living in or attending school in towns across eastern Bergen County, including those in the Pascack Valley area, are encouraged to apply. The deadline to submit applications is Feb. 18, 2025.
The awards recognize outstanding leadership and community involvement. A $5,000 award
will be presented to one senior, while two juniors will receive $1,000 each and the opportunity to intern with a local nonprofit. Eligible students include those attending public or private schools, even if the school is outside their hometown.
The awards celebrate the legacy of three historic figures with ties to the region, including suffragist Elizabeth Cady Stanton of Tenafly. The Community Chest, founded in 1933, continues to support local nonprofits through funding and coordination.
The Community Chest welcomes donations from the public to recognize the work of these young women. Contributions of any amount to support the awards may be sent by check with payment made out to The Community Chest, 122 South Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ 07631. Visit The Chestʼs website, thecommunitychestebc.org, for more information about the Young Womanʼs Leadership program, the programʼs award and the organizationʼs mission and work.
— Via Joyce Luhrs
Boards:
FROM PAGE 6
be appointed include board auditor, environmental consultant, architect, insurance agency, financial advisor, and extending the state health benefits program.
The district includes Fieldstone Middle School and Memorial Elementary School. High school students attend Pascack Hills High School in Montvale.
In the Nov. 5 election, three candidates, including newcomer Zaheera Khan and incumbents Christopher Colla and Ernie J. DiFiore, squared off for two open seats. Khan and Colla won the election.
• In Park Ridge, the school board plans to hold their reorgani-
zation meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 6. In a contested school board race with three candidates vying for two open seats, board incumbent David Bradler, with 2,428 votes, and newcomer Christopher A. Amitrano, with 2,409 votes, were the top vote-getters. Challenger David Shelton Hollers Jr. grabbed 2,086 votes. Amitrano did not respond to Pascack Press outreach and was absent at a forumʼ organized by residents.
• In River Vale, the school boardʼs reorganization/regular meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 7. In an uncontested race, local BOE incumbents Cheryl Berkowitz and Arthur W. White were reelected with 3,703 and 2,176 votes, respectively.
In April 2021, residents approved a referendum to make major upgrades to Holdrum Mid-
dle School, and Roberge and Woodside elementary schools. Voters approved a $42.5 million referendum, including $35.7 million in bonds. Improvements have been completed at the schools. High school students attend Pascack Valley High School in Hillsdale.
• Westwood Regional: Both the Township of Washington and Borough of Westwood comprise the K-12 Westwood Regional School District, the only K-12 district in Pascack Valley. They will hold their annual reorganization meeting at Westwood Regional High School on Thursday, Jan. 2, 7 p.m.
The district is composed of a regional high school, a middle school, and four elementary schools, with two elementary schools in each town.
In September, the school
board voted, 8-0, to hire Dr. Patrick McQueeny, who had served in the Wanaque School District. McQueeny replaced Jill Mortimer in the role after Mortimer settled with the district over a lawsuit alleging harassament by some former and current board members, all of Westwood. (See “New superintendent has full backing of WWRSD board” by John Snyder, Oct. 3, 2024).
On Nov. 5, three open seats on the WWRSD board were uncontested. Incumbent Jorge Pertuz won a three-year term representing the township and incumbent Andrea Peck and former trustee Carol Sue Mountain won full terms representing Westwood.
• In Woodcliff Lake , the school boardʼs reorganization meeting occurs Thursday, Jan. 2 at
7 p.m. in the Board of Education office at 134 Woodcliff Ave.
The district includes Woodcliff Middle School and Dorchester Elementary School. High school students attend Pascack Hills High School in Montvale. Voters on Nov. 5 narrowly defeated a $180,000 public question to hire two special law enforcement officers (SLEOs) at the elementary and middle schools. Had the question passed, the two SLEOs would have added $180,000 permanently to annual budgets going forward.
On Nov. 5, three incumbents ran uncontested for three open board seats and were reelected. These were school board president Jeffrey Hoffman, and trustees Robert Wolpov and Cristen Giblin.
Celebrate Kwanzaa with Bergen County
Bergen County invites residents to two special Kwanzaa celebrations that highlight community, culture, and the spirit of the holiday season.
• Kinara Lighting Ceremony runs Sunday, Dec. 29 at 5:30 p.m. at Winter Wonderland, Van Saun Park, Paramus.
• Kwanzaa Ceremony runs Monday, Dec. 30 at 3:30 p.m. at One Bergen County Plaza, Hackensack.
Both events promise to be joyous occasions filled with tradition, unity, and community spirit. Families and friends are encouraged to attend.
To participate in the Kinara
BERGEN COUNTY
Lighting Ceremony, visit BergenCountyWinterWonderland.com to reserve your 5 p.m. ticket slot. Event flyers and additional details are also available online.
These events, organized in partnership with the Bergen County African American Advisory Committee (AAAC), aim to make this Kwanzaa a memorable celebration for all.
Celebrate Kwanzaa: Honoring Culture, Unity, and Community Kwanzaa is a seven-day celebration, observed from Dec. 26 to
Jan. 1, that highlights African American and African diaspora culture, history, and shared values. Created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa is a non-religious holiday rooted in the African tradition of harvest celebrations. The name comes from the Kiswahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning “first fruits.”
Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles):
•Umoja (Unity): Striving for unity in family, community, and culture.
•Kujichagulia (Self-Determi-
GRANTOPPORTUNITYOPENSTO EMPOWER WOMENINCOUNTY
Women United in Philanthropy (WUIP), New Jerseyʼs first womenʼs giving circle, has opened its 2025 Impact Grant application process, offering a grant of $35,000 to $40,000 to fund the creation or expansion of an innovative program serving women in Bergen County.
This yearʼs focus is on addressing chronic issues that prevent women and their children from falling into poverty, with an emphasis on health and wellness, career advancement, safe and affordable housing, food security, and child care.
Eligible non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit proposals for programs that align with this mission. Initial grant applications are due by Jan. 17, 2025.
Since its founding in 2004, WUIP has awarded over $1 million to programs that empower women and their families. The most recent recipient, YWCANNJʼs Operation Sisterhood, provides female veterans with case management, workforce development, mentorship, and other support as they transition into civilian life. Other past recip-
ients include The Food Brigade, Geriatric Services, The Center for Hope and Safety, and the Womenʼs Rights Information Center.
In 2021, WUIP joined forces with the Womenʼs Foundation of NJ, strengthening its commitment to funding critical programs that improve the lives of women and their families in Bergen County. To learn more about the 2025 Impact Grant guidelines or to apply, contact patricia@womensfoundationnj.org or visit womensfoundationnj.org.
nation): Defining and naming ourselves.
•Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): Building and solving problems together.
•Nia (Purpose): Developing the community to reclaim traditional greatness.
•Kuumba (Creativity): Improving and beautifying our communities.
•Imani (Faith): Believing in our people and the righteousness of our struggle.
Kwanzaa is a time for storytelling, music, dancing, and the Karamu feast. Itʼs an opportunity for communities to come together, pass traditions to younger generations, and celebrate Black heritage. Everyone is welcome to join the celebration and learn about these cultural traditions.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS LABORER F/T POSITION– HILLSDALE BOROUGH. The Borough of Hillsdale Department of Public Works is seeking qualified applicants for a permanent full-time Laborer position. Duties will include but not be limited to buildings and ground maintenance, grass cutting, operating a variety of motor vehicles including automated and rear load trash trucks, dump trucks and other equipment used in public works services, assisting in the snow and ice removal operations, collection of leaves, repairing potholes, repairing water main breaks and service leaks etc. Applicant will be required to work scheduled and emergency overtime. Must possess a valid Class B (CDL) license or if hired be able to acquire license within one year. Driver history will be checked upon hire. Public works experience is preferred. Applicant must have the ability to interact in a positive and effective manner with employees and the general public. Applicant will be required to submit to employment drug/alcohol screening, both pre-hire and randomly upon hire. Employment applications are available at www.hillsdalenj.org or at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ. To apply, please complete a job application from our website and submit to the DPW Interim Superintendent at bpeterson@hillsdalenj.org or you may drop off your application at 380 Hillsdale Ave., Hillsdale, NJ 07642 by Jan. 17, 2025. The Borough reserves the right to interview candidates prior to the expiration of the job posting. EOE.
Need a FTdog bather. Experienced preferred or will train. Call 201-4440656.
Sr. Product & Service Development Engineer for BMW of North America, LLC in Woodcliff Lake, NJ to perform work that is essential to the successful and efficient operation of the technology between the US and Germany for BMW of North America. Requires: Bachelor's degree in Electronic Engg, Mechanical Engg, Business Info Sys., or related scientific field (willing to accept forgn edu equiv.) + 5 yrs’ exp in Sr Product & Service Development Engineer or related occupation (engineering-related project management or personnel supervision experience). Or, alternatively: a Master’s + 3 yrs’ exp. Email resume to karen.cochran@ bmwsharedservices.com.
Reference Position Number: 2400007H.
P/T BookkeeperNorwood, weekdays on premises.15-20 hr/wk flexible. Exp. in Quickbook/Excel.Call Sandy (201) 726-2426.
Falasca’s Friendly Service in Hillsdale is seeking P/T Mechanic Exp. Preferred, motivated, Tires, Oil Changes & more. Call Carl or Rich at 201-666-1414.
BOROUGH OF EMERSON, DEPT. OF PUBLIC WORKS, LABORER/DRIVER/ TREE CARE OPERATOR needed. Visit www.emersonnj.org/jobs for details and application.
Uncle Franks Barber shop in Park Ridge, is looking for a part time experienced barber. Not a hairdresser. Must be proficient with all haircuts. Offering 60% to a serious professional. Bus. 201782-9060 / cell. 201-6757636
Caregiver needed for facility in Bergen County, excellent references required. Call Anthony at (973) 652-1293
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Sue Barr/Getty Images
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2014 Jeep Rubicon85K, Mint Cond. New Tires & Brkaes No Accidents Black int. Asking $18,500 obo. Call 201-248-0322.
Troops:
FROM PAGE 4
men and women serving in the Armed Forces this Christmas season.”
Horváth, reflecting on the programʼs impact, highlighted the role of local schools in contributing to its success. “It was wonderful to see so many letters from the community, especially from the schools. They ranged from nursery school studentsʼdrawings to well-written letters from high school students.”
He added that fostering an understanding among young people about the sacrifices of those serving overseas is a key objective of the program.
“As an Army veteran who served overseas in Vietnam, I know the value of a letter from home and what it can do for morale,” Horváth said, expressing heartfelt thanks to the teachers who spearheaded efforts
in their schools.
He gave special recognition to educators at St. Johnʼs Academy in Hillsdale, Roberge School in River Vale, DeWolf School in Old Tappan, as well as Pascack Valley and Northern Valley Old Tappan high schools.
Post 162 volunteers packed the letters, ensuring their timely delivery to service members stationed around the world. “The dedication of our community to this program is inspiring,” said Douglas Frank, commander of American Legion Post 162, in Dec. 21 outreach to Pascack Press
“Itʼs a powerful reminder of the connection between our hometowns and those who are serving to protect our freedoms.”
The Cards and Letters to the Troops program continues to be a shining example of Hillsdaleʼs commitment to honoring its service members, one heartfelt note at a time. For more information or to support future efforts, contact Post 162 at 98 Legion Place, Hillsdale, NJ 07642.
Support urged for rescues
Sammi, a 2-year-old Lab mix, arrived at Save the Animals Rescue Team II (START II) in September after being surrendered by her previous owners. The family, moving into an apartment, felt they could no longer provide Sammi with the attention she deserves.
Described as affectionate and friendly, Sammi is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and housetrained. According to rescue staff, she does well with cats and enjoys the company of other dogs. While she knows basic commands such as sit, Sammiʼs excitement can sometimes make her jumpy, making her a better fit for families with older children.
“Sammi is such a loving dog,” said Diane Errichiello, a
Joan C. PUTRINO
Joan C. Putrino ( née DeGar), 89, of the Township of Washington, passed away peacefully on Dec. 17, 2024. She was born on April 11, 1935, in The Bronx, N.Y. Joan married and later moved to New Jersey, where she resided for more than 60 years.
She was the beloved wife of the late Frank Putrino Sr.; loving mother of the late Frank Jr., Anthony and his wife Anita, and Joan and her late husband Alfred Pay; and cherished grandmother of Frank, the late Toni Ann, John, and Daniel. She was the dear sister of Bryan and the late Billy and Barry. Joan is also survived by her longtime companion, Gus Calamari.
volunteer at START II. “She will bring so much joy to any home. She just needs a family who can give her the love and attention she deserves.”
Sammi and other adoptable pets are available through START II. Potential adopters are encouraged to fill out an online application and schedule a visit. For more information, contact Marge at (732) 330-6692 or via email at start2@yahoo.com.
START II urges the community to support animal rescues by promoting the importance of spaying and neutering pets, and volunteering. “There are many programs available for those in need,” added Errichiello.
Volunteer applications are available at startii.org.
OBITUARIES
The family received relatives and friends on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024 at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood. A funeral service followed at the funeral home, with interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington, N.J.
Peter J. BELLANTONI
Peter J. Bellantoni, 97, of Norwood, formerly of Hillsdale and Brooklyn, N.Y., passed away on Dec. 19, 2024. Peter is survived by his beloved wife, Josephine; his children Patricia Eichenlaub and her husband Rick, JoAnn and her husband Michael, and Peter; and nine grandchildren: Kimberly (Tymish), Ricky, Keira, Tori, Michelle (Arthur), Ian, Robert
(Shiori), P.J., and Samantha. He was also the proud great-grandfather of Liliana and Ariana.
Peter is predeceased by his parents, Pasquale and Mary (nee Amore) Bellantoni; his sister, Domenica; and his daughter-inlaw, Denise.
Known for his dry sense of humor, kindness, and willingness to listen, Peter was an avid bowler and stream fisherman. He always said his greatest “catch” was the love of his life, Jo.
The family received guests on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024 at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood. A Memorial Mass celebrating Peterʼs life and faith was held on Monday, Dec. 23, 2024, at St. Anthony Roman Catholic Church in Northvale.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Peterʼs name to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital at stjude.org/donate..
Alfred H. DIDONATO
Alfred (Al) H. DiDonato of Hackensack, born Feb. 6, 1934, passed away on Dec. 21, 2024. Raised in Hackensack, Al attended Shippensburg State Teachers College in Pennsylvania after graduating high school. Upon graduating, he served five years of active duty in the U.S. Army Reserves.
In May 1958, Al married Eleanor J. Grob (Ellie), and in September of that year, he began his teaching career at Dwight Morrow High School in Englewood, where he coached basketball and football, leading his team to a basketball state championship. Encouraged by his principal, Al pursued his masterʼs degree in education at Columbia University, launching a career in educational leadership that spanned more than 40 years.
Al served as principal of Rutherford High School and later as principal and superintendent of Cresskill High School, where he worked until his retirement in 1997. After retiring, Al enjoyed golfing at Old Tappan Golf Course, maintaining his familyʼs swimming pool, and spending winters in Florida with his wife.
Al is survived by his wife, Eleanor; his daughters, Susan Gold (Alex) and Karen Ten Hoeve (John); and his grandchildren, David Gold, Connor Ten Hoeve, and Danielle Gold. He is also survived by four nieces and nephews: James, Maria DiBenedetto, Barbara Donito, and John Donito. He was predeceased by his parents, Mamie and Gus of Hackensack, and his siblings, Joseph, Mary Verrone, and John Donito.
The family received guests on Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024 at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood. A celebration of his life and faith was held on Friday, Dec. 27, 2024, with interment at Westwood Cemetery, Westwood.
