PASCACK PRESS 3.24.25

Congratulations to Troop 109’s Evan Minneker, outstanding as a new Eagle Scout. PAGE 12

SAVE ROOM FOR 2ND ‘MUNCH MADNESS’

Celebrate Westwood brings back popular Restaurant Week, March 24–30

Celebrate Westwoodʼs “most delicious event of the year” is back: The Second Annual Westwood Restaurant Week runs Monday, March 24 through Sunday, March 30, featuring exclusive specials from 17 of Westwoodʼs top dining destinations. The event is generously sponsored by Columbia Bank.

Diners can enjoy meal specials all week at:

• Eighty Twenty (48 WestSee MUNCH on page 14

LEAPING OFF THE PAGE LEAPING OFF THE PAGE

Marvel author, editor loops in Westwood kids

Among the guests at the Westwood Regional School District’s Read Across America Week festivities:comic book and children’s book author MacKenzie Cadenhead (inset),who presented in Westwood at the invitation of Brookside and Berkeley school families Courtesy photos.

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

STUDENTSAT Westwoodʼs Brookside and Berkeley elementary schools embarked on a storytelling adventure during the recent Read Across America Week, welcoming comic book and childrenʼs book author MacKenzie Cadenhead for an interactive, behind-the-scenes look at writing and publishing.

Cadenhead, who has worked with Marvel Comics, Disney, and

multiple childrenʼs publishers, led engaging presentations where students explored the journey of a story from pitch to publication— learning how ideas transform into books and comics.

“It was just so much fun,” Cadenhead told Pascack Press March 11. “The students were full of questions, bursting with ideas, and eager to jump into the storytelling process. I could have stayed all day just listening to their amazing creativity.”

Her visit was coordinated by

As part of its celebration of Women’s History Month, Immaculate Heart Academy recognizes “Women of Valor Among Us: IHA Women Making History Today.”

PAGE 25

media center specialist Casha Eliason and made possible by the Brookside PTO and Berkeley PSO, continuing a longstanding

Continued on page 39

SUP’T. CALLSFOR JOBCUTS ATADMIN

McQueeney tightens belt with 2025-26 budget; teachers appear spared; hearing and vote April 24

Facing rising costs and a 2% state-imposed budget cap, the Westwood Regional School District has unveiled a restructuring plan that will reduce administrative positions while maintaining instructional staff levels.

At the March 18 school board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Patrick McQueeney presented the 2025–2026 preliminary budget, which aims to address higher healthcare, utilities, and operational costs. A final public budget hearing and vote is set for Thursday, April 24.

Under the proposal, effective July 1, affecting the administration of education in Westwood and the Township of Washington:

•Westwood Regional High School will reduce assistant principals from four to two.

•Westwood Regional Middle School will reduce from three to one assistant principal.

•Elementary assistant principal positions will be eliminated.

•The Director of Technology/Security position will be eliminated, while the School Security Specialist position will be rein-

See WWRSD on page 34

In the second half of the 1800s, the largest chair manufacturing mill in New Jersey was on the Hackensack River at Old Tappan/River Vale. Kristin Beuscher reports.

PAGE 4

PASCACK PRESS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Cheers to Mrs.Savitsky

at milestone

To the editor:

P LEASECONVEY our very best wishes to Dr. Savitsky on the occasion of her 100th birthday!

[See “Peace and joy:Mary Savitsky celebrates 100” in the March 17, 2025 Pascack Press .] We knew her very fondly as Mrs. Savitsky, second grade teacher, as did many, many other families. She was a very special, warm-hearted wonderful teacher and we will always remember her with great affection. Thank you, Mrs. Savitsky, for making a difference in so many lives!

Frances and Patrick Moore River Vale

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Mother Seton Council offers four scholarships

The Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 is now accepting applications for its 2025 scholarship awards, offering three $1,000 scholarships from the James Picarella Memorial Trust Fund and one $1,000 scholarship from the Mother Seton Scholarship Fund.

Scholarship Eligibility & Criteria

•James Picarella Scholarships:

Open to graduating high school seniors who are Township of Washington residents. Non-residents may also apply if they have a father, brother, or grandfather who has been a council member in good standing for at least one year.

•Mother Seton Scholarship: Open to high school seniors or students in continuing education pro-

grams (up to a bachelorʼs degree)

or

Selection Criteria:

• The scholarship must be used toward tuition for a full-time student at an accredited college, business, nursing, or technical school.

•Recipients will receive the award in one payment upon proof of enrollment.

•While academic achievement is a key factor, the selection committee also considers financial need, community involvement, and extracurricular activities.

•Applications must be completed in full and include a high school transcript. Incomplete applications will be disqualified.

How to Apply

Applications are available at:

•Westwood High School Guidance Office

• Immaculate Heart Academy Guidance Office

•School websites

•Knights of Columbus Council #5427

Submission Deadline:

Completed applications must be submitted in a sealed envelope to:

John Pimpinella, Scholarship Chairman, Knights of Columbus, 79 Pascack Road, Township of Washington, NJ 07676. Applications must be received no later than May 15, 2025.

For questions, contact:

• John Pimpinella, Scholarship Chairman at 973-670-9482

•Paul Elterlein, James Picarella Memorial Scholarship Chairman at 201-265-1749

Scholarship Awards Night Scholarship recipients will be honored at the Knights of Columbus Awards Night meeting on Thursday, June 10, 2025.

About the Knights of Columbus Founded in 1882 by Blessed Michael McGivney, the Knights of Columbus has grown from a small fraternal benefit society to an international charitable organization with 2 million members and 16,000 councils worldwide.

In the past year alone, the Knights have contributed 48 million volunteer hours and $154 million to charitable causes.

In 2024, Mother Seton Council #5427 contributed $53,600 to charities and awarded $5,000 in scholarships. Applications for membership are welcome from qualified individuals. For more information, call 201-664-0422 or visit www.kofc5427.com.

Follow the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office on the road as it makes its way “Around the County,” where it brings its office to you! Services include passport applications and notary oaths, and photo cards for seniors, veterans, and exempt Firefighters.

For questions about these services call 201-336-7055. Stop by your local facility from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the remaining dates below.

• March 26: Emerson Senior Center, 20 Palisade Ave.

• April 3: Montvale Satellite, Council Chambers 2nd fl., 12 DePiero Drive.

•April 15:Westwood Satel-

lite, Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave.

•May 8:Bergenfield Satellite, Borough Hall, 198 N. Washington Ave.

• Aug. 20: Hillsdale Borough Hall, 380 Hillsdale Ave., Denise Kohan 201-666-4800, ext. 1552.

•Sept. 10:Mahwah Satellite, Township of Mahwah (Senior Center), 475 Corporate Drive. •Sept. 18:Fairview Borough Hall/Council Chambers, 59 Anderson Ave.

• Sept. 24: Township of Washington, 350 Hudson Ave.

• Oct. 1: Emerson Senior Center, 20 Palisade Ave.

SAVITSKY

Eyes on Hilton Hotel, BMW site studies April 22

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFF LAKE

An April Land Use Board meeting might hold clues to the future of two large properties being considered as potential areas in need of redevelopment, including the former Hilton hotel site and a portion of BMWʼs property, said a councilwoman at the March 17 meeting.

Moreover, she said that plans will also likely be heard soon for a long-closed, vacant gas station property at 26 Broadway, corner of Broadway and Campbell Avenue. Mayor Carlos Rendo recently posted preliminary plans on Facebook for a proposed mixed-use building on the site.

Councilor Nicole Marsh told residents to consider attending the April 22 Land Use Board meeting, where results of two area in need of redevelopment studies will be presented.

She told us, “The studies for BMW and the Hilton will be presented by the borough planner and he will make recommendations to the board about whether or not to adopt the area in need of redevelopment plan. If the land use board moves forward, it will then go to the council.”

Residents can attend the April 22 meeting in person or watch via a Zoom link on the online agenda, Marsh said. Marsh and Mayor Carlos Rendo are both Land Use Board members, but neither is allowed to vote on whether either land parcel is declared in need of redevelopment.

If the matter comes before council, Marsh said she can vote on the LUBʼs recommendation to include the sites as areas in need of redevelopment. Rendo votes only in case of a council tie.

It was not clear if either site

was being considered for potential affordable housing, though redevelopment in mostly built-out towns can be a key component of an affordable housing plan.

According to state law, a town can designate an area “in need of redevelopment” if it meets one or more criteria outlined in the local Redevelopment and Housing Law (LRHL). These criteria include substandard structures; a high percentage of older housing stock; vacancy; abandonment, underutilization of properties, tax arrears. environmental contamination, or outdated infrastructure.

The council approved both the Hilton Hotel site (approximately 20 acres) and now closed, along with the BMWʼs property, for studies at meetings in November and December.

Previously, we reported the council passed resolutions to do the redevelopment studies and establish developer-funded accounts to cover the cost of exploring each siteʼs redevelopment potential. It was not clear who was the potential purchaser or purchaser of the BMW property.

At the Dec. 16 meeting, the council approved Resolution 24311, authorizing a preliminary redevelopment investigation study by DMR Architects for Block 602, Lot

1, a 20-acre portion of BMWʼs headquarters at its larger 80-acreplus property at 300 Chestnut Ridge Road.

The resolution notes the studyʼs $19,160 cost but does not specify who is paying for it. Borough Administrator Tom Padilla told Pascack Press that the study will be funded by the property developer, not the borough.

Pascack Press had requested a copy of the DMR proposal but not yet received it.

Resolution 24-311 states, “The Borough Administrator has reviewed the proposal submitted by DMR Architects for the preparation of the Preliminary Redevelopment Investigation Study for Block 602, Lot 1 without condemnation and recommends the approval of same; and WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has certified that funds are available for this expenditure, a copy of said certification being attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.”

Hilton property redevelopment?

At the Nov. 14 council meeting, the council approved Resolution 24-258, which establishes an escrow fund with Woodcliff Lake Developers, LLC, to “fund the costs and expenses in connection with

exploring the redevelopment of Block 301, Lot 3 (200 Tice Boulevard),” the former Woodcliff Lake Hilton property.

The resolution does not mention the propertyʼs address or the Hilton name.

The resolution also does not clarify the principals in Woodcliff Lake Developers, LLC. However, an internet search shows Wilf Law Firm LLP, Short Hills as its registered agent. The company, 13 months old, purchased the Hilton property at auction in February 2024.

The buyer, Garden Homes—a subsidiary owned by real estate developer Zygmunt “Zygi” Wilf, who also owns the Minnesota Vikings—has developed thousands of homes, rental units, and commercial properties in the region, including in Allendale and River Vale, according to one website. Both redevelopment studies aim to evaluate whether the properties meet the criteria for “areas in need of redevelopment,” a designation that could facilitate rezoning by the Land Use Board and council.

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County has appointed Katrice Thomas as its new executive director

Setting the pace at Bergen Habitat

Nonprofit names

Katrice Thomas executive director

WESTWOOD

Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County (Habitat Bergen), a leader in affordable housing, has appointed Katrice Thomas as its new executive director following a robust and competitive search process that evaluated a wide range of candidates.

Habitat Bergen tells Pascack Press

See HABITAT page 32

The Collignons and their chair factory

Pascack Historical

Society John C. Storms Museum highlights an industrious local family

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF PASCACK PRESS

NTHESECONDHALF of the 1800s, the largest chair manufacturing mill in New Jersey was on the Hackensack River at the Old Tappan/River Vale border. A fire in 1904 wiped almost all of it off the map.

On April 16, 1857, Nicholas Collignon bought property on Westwood Avenue that had previously been known as Stone Point, the site of a grist mill dating back to the 18th century. On this land, he and his brothers, Claudius and Adam, established a chair factory that would come to be the source of income of hundreds of Pascack Valley households.

An 1861 map of the firm location shows it under the nameN. COLLIGNON & BRO.with turning and saw mills. Nicholas Collignon lived in a house on the east side of the road, to the north of the Hackensack River bridge. Claudius lived on the opposite side of the road to the north of the mills, in a house still standing at 1019 Westwood Ave. in Old Tappan.

The Collignon firm designed and patented a variety of folding wooden chairs, including the first folding rocking chair in the country A number of examples are preserved in the collection of the Pascack Historical Society

As the story goes, Nicholas, while traveling out west during the California Gold Rush, had seen many covered wagons with cumbersome rocking chairs tied to the side. This gave him an idea for a more convenient alternative—a rocking chair that could fold for greater portability.

In addition to chairs for household use, many of the models the Collignons produced were for ocean liners, the British Cunard Steamship Line being one of their main accounts. They also made chairs for Ward Line, Panama Railroad Steamship Co., and the Pacific Steamship Co. This was a time before air travel; if you were crossing an ocean, you were doing so by ship.

Steamer chairs had slat seats, backs, and footrests to withstand the ocean air and water, while chairs for home use typically had seats and backs of cane. Chairs for children were also made in a small-sized version of the larger models.

In the 1870s and 1880s, the Collignons

See FACTORY on page 33

1. A Collignon folding lounge chair, circa 1880, from the collection of the Pascack Historical Society 2. The Collignon Chair Factory complex on the Hackensack River, from an 1876 drawing. 3. Logging operations for the Collignon sawmill.

Two bills set for a vote in the New Jersey State Senate could significantly reshape the character of suburban communities across the state—including here in Westwood and the Pascack Valley. The legislation, S2974 and S1408, would remove parking requirements for residential developments near public transit and allow for mixed-use housing in commercial zones without local oversight.

Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo and councilmember and Planning Board liaison Lauren Letizia are raising the alarm, arguing that these measures would strain local infrastructure, exacerbate parking shortages, and strip municipalities of the ability to manage their own planning needs. They urge residents to contact their state reps and oppose the bills.

Here, Arroyo and Letizia lay out their case in detail, explaining the real-world impact these

c hanges would have on local communities. Their message is clear: these decisions should be made at the local level, not dictated from Trenton.

These opinions are the authorsʼown and were requested as part of our commitment to exploring and illuminating timely local issues. Informed opposing views are welcomed at pascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

TW OBILLSTHAT would fundamentally transform the landscape of suburban New Jersey could be scheduled for a vote by the NJ State Senate as early as Monday, March 24. If passed, the legislation would fully eliminate parking requirements near public transit (S2974) and allow for mixed-use residential development, by right, in areas formerly zoned for commercial use only (S1408). These

bills strip local planning boards of any ability to determine what is appropriate for their communities.

We urge residents to contact their representatives and ask them to vote no on these bills:

•Senator Holly Schepisi (SenSchepisi@njleg.org)

•Assemblyman Robert Auth (AsmAuth@njleg.org)

•Assemblyman John Azzariti (AsmAzzariti@njleg.org)

Whatʼs at Stake?

The elimination of parking standards will impact more than

75% of Westwood's streets, drastically changing the character of downtowns and adjacent neighborhoods along the Pascack Valley line. The mixed-use development bill will further compound parking shortages, as developers will no longer be required to provide spaces for residential units built near NJ Transit stops.

Notably, Westwoodʼs Shopping Center Zone (known as KMart Plaza) could, by state statute, be converted into hundreds of residential units—in a known flood zone—without parking, and with no recourse for the town to mitigate its impact on infrastructure, congestion, or public safety

Previous versions of these bills included partial parking reductions and allowed for some local input, but those provisions were removed before the bills were passed out of the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee on March 17. The

current versions would likely force municipalities to build costly parking decks, paid for by taxpayers, or permit 24/7 on-street parking on nearly every street in the region.

A Closer Look at S2974: The Parking Mandate Elimination Bill

This bill modifies the Residential Site Improvement Standards (RSIS)—the statewide regulations that dictate the minimum number of on-site parking spaces required for residential buildings. If passed:

• 100% of parking requirements would be eliminated for residential developments within one-half mile of any NJ Transit rail station—without restriction on housing type or density.

• 50% of parking requirements would be eliminated for developments within one-half mile of a bus terminal or bus-

ARROYO LETIZIA

Westwood Rec opens spring program registration

Westwood residents and Pascack Valley neighbors are invited to explore Westwood Recreationʼs 2025 Spring Program Guide, available at westwoodnj.gov/209/Program-Flyers. Registration for spring programs begins Monday, March 24, for residents and Monday, March 31, for non-residents (space permitting, with additional fees).

Spring Break Camps & Seasonal Offerings

Registration is also open for Spring Break Camps, featuring

Tennis Camp and Multisports Camp, both running Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Parents can find locations and fees by selecting "2025 Spring Break Camps" in their Community Pass account at register.communitypass.net/westwood.

The Spring Program Guide includes a variety of offerings, including:

• Adult Classes: Culinary Classics, Circuit Training, Yoga, Zumba, Tennis, Womenʼs Kickball League, and two new classes— Paint, Collage & Clay with

artist/instructor Britt Sikiric and Salsa Dancing at Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Oradell.

• Youth Classes (Grades K9): Tennis, Yoga for Kids, Pickleball, Dance Club, Theatre Games, LEGO Radical Rides, Culinary Classics, Golf, and Girls Outdoor Volleyball. New offerings include Wilderness Skills, Fishing, Mixed Media Art, and Robo Monorail.

• Young Children's Programs: Parent & Me Arts and Crafts, Abrakadoodle Art, MiniMovement Yoga Parent & Me, Creative Ballet, T-Ball Squirts, Parent-Assisted Soccer and Multisports, Multisports Squirts, and Soccer Squirts.

PARAMUS

• Specialized Programs: SNAP (Special Needs Activity Program), Forever Young 55+ Programs, and information on soccer, football, cheer, and track & field.

Ultimate Frisbee Returns to Westvale Park Westwood Recreation is excited to welcome back Ultimate Frisbee with Tiger Ultimate of NJ for a six-week session at Westvale Park on Friday nights. The program includes:

•Family Ultimate (Grades 1-4 with parents)

•Youth League (Grades 5-8)

•High School League (Grades 9-12)

Open to both residents and non-residents, the program teaches disc-throwing skills and the sportʼs unique "Spirit of the Game" selfrefereeing style.

How to Register Spring program registration opens at 9 a.m. on March 24 for residents and March 31 for nonresidents.

•Online: Visit register.communitypass.net/westwood.

•In-Person: Visit the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave., to fill out a paper form. For more information, visit westwoodnj.gov/179/recreation or follow @westwoodnjrec.

Spring Craft Show March 30

A spring craft show not to be missed runs Sunday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Paramus High School, 99 East Century Road. The event, sponsored by Project Graduation and organized by P.J.ʼs Promotions, promises a vibrant shopping experience with 140 exhibitors from three states showcasing arts, crafts, and photography.

This year, vendors will be set up in two gyms, the vestibule, and the cafe, offering shoppers a diverse selection of handmade and unique items, including apparel, florals, resin art, jewelry, table runners, pillows, hand-knitted pieces, crochet animals, childrenʼs and doll clothing, soft sculptures, hand-painted flowerpots, glassware, door signs, jeweled utensils, artwork, and heat packs.

Additional highlights include photography, glass butterflies, wood bowls, charcuterie boards,

A spring craft show not to be missed runs Sunday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Paramus High School, 99 East Century Road.

birdhouses, bonsai, origami, soaps, candles, stained glass, sports clocks, and spring florals.

Outside, visitors can enjoy homemade pickles, beef jerky, desserts, kettle corn, and tie-dye items.

Food and drinks will be available in the cafe. Admission is $3. For more information, visit www.pjspromotions.com or call (201) 410-5416.

Borough intros $405K bond to upgrade DPW fuel tank

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PARKRIDGE

The Borough Council introduced a bond ordinance on March 11 for $405,000 to remove and replace a three-decade-old underground fuel storage tank near the DPWʼs recycling center.

The bondʼs introduction was approved 5-0 by the council. Councilman William Fenwick was absent but attended the work session remotely. A public hearing is scheduled for March 25.

Borough Clerk Maggie Giandomenico said the tank is being replaced to meet New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) standards.

Giandomenico said the borough is renewing its agreement with the other towns, which will likely share costs for the tank upgrade.

“We have an underground fuel tank at the DPW that is 30 years old and must be replaced by the end of June. This (ordinance)

gets the funding in place. Montvale and Woodcliff Lake use the fuel, and we split the cost of the fuel and maintenance with them,” she said.

“We have also split upgrades three ways previously and are currently in talks about updating the (cost-share) agreement and determining the cost split between the three municipalities,” she added.

Ongoing PFAS treatment costs

Currently, Park Ridgeʼs water system meets all state and federal quality standards and is safe to drink, officials emphasized to Pascack Press. The Park Ridge system also serves parts of Woodcliff Lake.

Additionally, the council voted 5-0 to approve a bond ordinance appropriating $325,000 for engineering and permitting phases of PFAS water treatment system installations at Wells 16 and 19 in the Park Ridge water system.

Giandomenico said the borough was awarded a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Community Grant under the Park

Ridge Remediation Project, which will fund the construction of packaged treatment systems at the two wells.

“The borough intends to use prefabricated treatment systems and enclosures,” she said.

She noted that in 2022, Fifth District Congressman Josh Gottheimer secured a 2023 EPA Community Grant of $3,452,972 for Park Ridge. Since February 2024, she said, “We have been working with the EPA to complete the grant packet for Wells 16 and 19 to secure permanent PFAS treatment systems.”

The borough solicited proposals from qualified firms to provide engineering services for designing, permitting, and preparing bid documents for two perand polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) treatment facilities.

“We evaluated the bids from qualified firms based on technical expertise, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with project requirements. We need to put the funding in place to work with the firms to design bid specs for the two wells and go out to bid for the project,” she said.

She added that the borough

must bond for costs upfront to cover project engineering, but the EPA grant will reimburse those expenses.

The council also approved a grant application to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protectionʼs (NJDEP) Environmental Infrastructure Trust for filtration treatment and treatment housing at Wells 12 and 18, located at 86 Glendale Road and 4 New Street, respectively. Director of Operations Paul Longo was authorized to represent the borough in all project matters.

Westwood police are investigating an attempted vehicle theft on Sunday, March 16 that unfolded in broad daylight at the Trader Joeʼs parking lot on Irvington Street, near police headquarters.

Officers rushed to the scene at approximately 12:53 p.m. after receiving reports of a “carjacking in progress.”

According to police, a suspect entered a BMW that had been left unlocked with its key fob inside and attempted to drive away. The vehicleʼs owner confronted the would-be thief, prompting a collision with another parked car in the lot.

The suspect abandoned the BMW and took off on foot, pursued briefly by a Good Samaritan. Police from Emerson, Hillsdale, and the Township of Washington, along with the Bergen County Sheriffʼs K-9 Unit, joined Westwood officers in setting up a perimeter, but the suspect managed to evade capture and was last seen running eastbound.

Authorities later clarified that the incident was an attempted vehicle theft rather than a carjack-

ing, and the i nvestigation remains ongoing as police work to identify the suspect. The attempt — brazen, in Police Chief Michael Pontilloʼs terms — sparked c oncern among residents, with some expressing shock that it happened at all in Westwood, while others noted that Trader Joeʼs bustling parking lot might not have made for an easy getaway.

Pontillo thanked the assisting agencies and urged residents to take precautions. “Lock your vehicles, secure your valuables, and remove key fobs. Making your car less accessible is the best deterrent against theft,” Pontillo urged.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Westwood Police Department.

It’s Princeton Day over IHA in final

Monday, March 10, 2025 –Prudential Center, Newark—The 4th edition of the NJSIAA Girls Hockey State Final saw the topseeded Princeton Day School Panthers face off against the No. 2 seed IHA Blue Eagles. The teams had split their regular-season matchups, each winning at home—Princeton Day in a 4-1 victory on Jan. 7, while IHA took a 2-1 win on Jan. 21.

Both programs were making their second appearance in the state championship game. IHA fell short in last yearʼs final, losing 2-1 to The Pingry School Big Blue. Princeton Day lost the inaugural 2022 title game 7-0 to Morristown Beard but shut out the Blue Eagles 7-0 for their first state title. From the outset, Princeton Day ruled, using their size and strength to keep the puck in the IHA zone. Blue Eagles freshman goalie Madison Graves put up a

PASCACK VALLEY

IHA Blue Eagles Girls Hockey F No. 12 Julie Foglia s ets up a shot on goal, Newark. Paul R. Sullivan.

strong effort, holding off the Panthers for the first 11:28 of the game, but junior forward Brynn Dandy broke through to give Princeton Day a 1-0 lead.

The Panthers continued their offensive pressure, outshooting IHA 10-5 in the first period and 84 in the second, extending their

lead to 3-0 heading into the final frame. In the third period, IHA finally found their rhythm, generating 11 shots on goal, but Princeton Day goalie Kelly Stevens was impenetrable. The Panthers fired 12 more shots, five of which found the back of the net—including four power-play goals—sealing the 7-0 victory.

The Blue Eagles wrapped with an 11-3 record. Senior forward Gabriella Capano led the team in scoring with 11 goals and 18 points, while sophomore defenseman Giana Butto topped the assist chart with eight helpers. Senior forward Gabriella Shadek was also a key contributor, recording 10 goals and 6 assists. In net, Graves posted an impressive .917 save percentage with four shutouts, anchoring IHAʼs defense throughout the season.

—By Paul R. Sullivan

paulsullivan4photography.com

Viking Pest Control launches new eco-friendly Green Program

Viking Pest Control, a top provider of pest management and extermination services in New Jersey, has launched Viking Green—a sustainable pest control program offering natural, lowimpact solutions for homes and businesses.

Viking Green features three annual plans covering over 30 common pests including ants, mice, rats, wasps, and spiders. It also includes a green version of the award-winning Last Bite Mosquito & Tick service.

Though Viking Green is new, Viking Pest has long been a leader in eco-conscious pest control. The company is GreenPro certified by the National Pest Management Association and has been named “Best for Sustainability” by The Spruce for four years running.

“The Viking Green program represents years of effort to deliver the most effective and reliable low-impact pest control for our customers,” said James McIntyre, President of Viking Pest Control.

All Viking Green plans

include SMART Pest Control technology, offering 24/7 pest monitoring—even in hard-toreach spaces. Higher-tier plans also feature termite baiting and green mosquito/tick control. Built on the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Viking Green combines prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatments to reduce the use of harmful materials and minimize environmental impact.

To learn more, visit Vikingpest.com or call (800) 618-2847.

C OUNCIL OK S ‘ PROSPECTIVENEED’ OF 360 UNITS ; NUMBERCOULDFALL

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The Borough Council unanimously approved a resolution March 17 that increased their affordable housing fourth round obligation to 360 new units after discussions with Fair Share Housing Center, while officials said that number was due to to be slashed further in a final plan to be submitted before June 30.

During a required mediation session March 14, the borough and Fair Share Housing Center agreed that the boroughʼs revised “fair share” of affordable housing over the next decade will be 360 units, said a councilman involved with the boroughʼs negotiations, down from 423 units initially recommended by the state.

Councilman Joshua Stern told us, “The 360 number agreed to with FSHC is our prospective need. The next step is to calculate our realistic development potential, or RDP, by looking at the vacant parcels in town and doing a Vacant Land Adjustment (VLA),” he said.

Stern noted, “However, even with a VLA, the statute still requires you to meet a certain minimum amount. There are different interpretations of the statute as to the minimum, but we believe that our RDP will be somewhere in our 80–130-unit range. This number is actually less once you factor in some of the various bonus credits,” he added.

Council approved a resolution March 17 that accepted the new “fair share” number, which was up from the 329-unit number that was adopted earlier by the borough to meet the stateʼs Jan. 31 deadline.

Copies of resolutions can be found on the New Jersey eCourts website at njcourts.gov/courts/civil/affordable-housing/bergen.

Stern told us, “One reason we took the (FSHC) settlement was that because we were doing a VLA, it would not materially alter our Housing Element and Fair Share Plan. Had we not settled we risked a full hearing, a decision that could have forced us back to the 423 unit number, which might require additional overlay districts.

He noted, “And since our Housing Plan will ultimately be reviewed by FSHC, we also believed that being reasonable and working with FSHC with regard to our prospective need was beneficial for the next step.”

Mayor Carlos Rendo thanked Stern and councilwoman Nicole Marsh for their hard work addressing the boroughʼs affordable housing situation. He said he believed that the upcoming Housing Element and Fair Share plan - due to the state by June 30 - would protect the town for the next decade.

Rendo said he expected a “judgment of repose” for the next

decade. “We wonʼt be required to build any more affordable housing units mandated by the state of New Jersey for the next 10 years,” added the mayor.

Stern told Pascack Press that the mayor “was talking about once we meet our statutory requirement, then during the period of the 4th round (which runs through 2035) we would have no more obligation.”

Stern said the new 360-unit number will be further reduced by a vacant land adjustment, which is an analysis likely to show less land available for development. That lower number will be included in the local Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, due to the state by June 30.

Objectors then have until Aug. 31 to challenge the townsʼhousing plans. The housing element plans should include methods to implement a “realistic opportunity” for construction of affordable housing.

It was unclear what the final borough obligation number would be though some officials said it was probable that the borough would not need to build few if any more affordable units over the Fourth Round (2025 to 2035) of affordable housing.

Under the stateʼs amended

Fair Housing Act, Fair Share Housing Center had challenged affordable numbers from 68 towns that submitted numbers they believed were too low, including Woodcliff Lake.

New Jerseyʼs affordable housing dispute resolution program requires municipalities whose numbers are challenged to enter mediation and resolve the challenges before April 1.

Also, the boroughʼs affordable number was challenged by the New Jersey Builders Association.

Although Stern did not mention that challenge during the meeting, he later told Pascack Press that the association had agreed not to challenge any mediated settlement that a town reached with Fair Share Housing Center on its obligations.

The builders association has challenged 159 towns statewide that selected lower numbers than those recommended in October 2024 by the state Department of Community Affairs.

In their resolution filed by Jan. 31, the borough committed to

329 “prospective need” or newconstruction affordable units, but the resolution notes that with a vacant land adjustment to come, that number would be “not less” than 83, although bonus credits for future units, revised zoning and redevelopment could reduce that further.

For other Pascack Valley townsʼobligations, see our Affordable Housing articles archive on the right side of Pascack Pressʼs home page.

Rare NJ Colonial Note Discovered in Castoff Book

BYJONFELZ

Hello, Jon, Iʼm in the house clean-out

and every now and then, I come across items left behind that seem like they could have value.

Case in point: the item in the attached picture. While going through some very old books that were left for me to dispose of, I took the time to carefully check through their pages ( Iʼve found cash this way before!). This particular item was carefully placed between two pieces of fabric, which made me think it might be significant. What do you think?

– Billy in Mahwah

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

Hi, Billy,

Thank you for sharing your incredible find—itʼs always exciting to hear about hidden treasures uncovered in unexpected places. Your diligence in checking through discarded books has certainly paid off! You have discovered a rare standard circulation

New Jersey Colonial Note dated March 25, 1776, with a face value of 18 pence and serial number 8484.

This historic note, printed by Isaac Collins of Burlington, N.J.,

features: Obverse D esign: The New Jersey Coat of A rms prominently d isplayed in the left corner, alongside the text: “This Bill of ONE

SHILLING and SIX-PENCE

Proclamation, is emitted by a Law of the Colony of New-Jersey, passed in the Fourteenth Year of the Reign of His Majesty King George the Third. Dated March 25, 1776. Eighteen Pence.”

Reverse Design: A decorative plant leaf, a unique feature introduced by Benjamin Franklin to deter counterfeiters.

Anti-Counterfeiting Features: Mica flakes embedded in the paper and the chilling warning, To counterfeit is Death, reflecting the harsh penalties of the time.

The noteʼs three hand-signed

signatures—Johnathan Deare, Robert Smith, and Joseph Smith—are remarkably bold, and the overall condition is outstanding. The rich color, sharp details, and absence of handling marks make it a prime example for collectors.

Given its exceptional state, I strongly recommend having the note graded and slabbed by a reputable third-party grading service. Iʼm happy to recommend a trusted company for this process.

Now, the big question: Whatʼs it worth? Based on its likely grading as “Choice Extremely

Fine,” your New Jersey Colonial Note is valued at approximately $800 USD. If it grades higher, the value could significantly increase.

Thank you for sharing this incredible piece of New Jersey history. Keep searching through those books—you never know what other treasures await! Let us know if you uncover any more fascinating finds.

R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. is based at 132 Dexter Ave., Pearl River,N.Y.Call (845) 7351313 or visit rzmantiques.com.

Questions after borough, chief Smith reach accord

INFORMATIONON the record is scarce at press time but Hillsdale can expect to undertake a search for a new police chief.

Mayor Michael Sheinfield announced at press time on March 20 that “The Borough of Hillsdale and Police Chief Sean Smith have agreed on settlement terms between the two parties. As such, Chief Smithʼs [disciplinary] hearing scheduled to begin this morning has been canceled.”

The mayor said, “This public hearing was initially scheduled at the request of Chief Smith as was his right. In the coming days the boroughʼs legal counsel will prepare a resolution for consideration by the governing body. This resolution will consist of the terms agreed to by both parties as the result of extensive negotiations. The resolution will not include any of the details of the incident or incidents which led to the need for this agreement.”

He said, “We realize that members of the public have expressed a strong interest in learning the details of events in this matter. However, this is a borough personnel matter. All employees have a right to and an expectation of privacy in such instances. This right extends to both public and private sector employees. We will not be violating anyoneʼs right to privacy, and

no one from the borough will be commenting on the matter.”

Sheinfield said, “I want to thank the borough counsel for guiding us through this process; the governing body for working together and unanimously doing whatʼs in the best interests of the parties and our residents; the residents of Hillsdale for their patience and understanding; the Honorable Harry G. Carroll, J.A.D. (Ret), who set the parameters for the hearing and guided us to a successful resolution; the members of the Hillsdale Police Department who conducted themselves in a professional matter over these many months; and Police Chief Sean Smith for his three decades of service to the residents of Hillsdale.”

Sheinfield said, “This is likely the last public comment to be made on this topic from the Borough of Hillsdale.”

“Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart,” said Smith to a council chamber full of supporters, who erupted in sustained applause when his morningʼs business with the borough had wrapped.

Eric Kleiner, attorney for Smith, told Pascack Press, “Weʼre very satisfied with the resolution and how the borough cooperated in what is a fair resolution all around.”

Next steps

There is considerable heat rising around the future leadership of the Police Department, with councilman and immediate past twoterm mayor John Ruocco drawing the ire of PBA Local 207 over his recent response to a question by Pascack Press On this subject, Ruocco said “Hillsdale has been without an active chief of police for far too long. If, after the hearing process and any appeals are complete, Chief Smith chooses not to return or is not permitted to return by the Mayor & Council, it is vital that we promptly commence an external search for candidates.”

After taking withering fire from the police unionʼs president—P.O. Joseph Messner, a school resource officer at Pascack Valley High School—over a perception that Ruocco leveled an “unqualified and damaging opinion about the potential future leadership of our department,” Ruocco defended his remarks.

The Borough Council convened a second emergency meeting, the night of Wednesday, March 19, regarding what the resolution termed the “terminated” Police Chief Sean Smith, just one day before his scheduled disciplinary hearing. This followed a similar closed-session meeting on March 18, called after borough officials received unexpected settlement terms related to the matter.

Smith reportedly has been on paid administrative leave since a complaint was filed against him and investigated by the BCPO. Smith, a 27-year veteran of the department, was sworn in as chief in January 2024, following the retirement of Police Chief Robert Francaveglia.

By Michael Olohan and John Snyder

“My recommendation for an external search cannot be interpreted, under any stretch of the English language, as precluding consideration of qualified internal candidates. The borough can only benefit from taking the more expansive approach,”Ruocco said.

EMERSON POLICE BLOTTER FOR FEBRUARY 2025

Emerson Police Blotter for February 2025 is provided as a public service. A charge is not a conviction. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges may be amended or dismissed.

Feb. 28 – Criminal Sexual Contact (Old Hook Road)

Detectives investigated a report of alleged criminal sexual contact at a local business. The investigation, conducted with the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office Special Victims Unit, resulted in charges against a 43year-old Lodi man. He was charged on a complaint summons and given a pending court date in Central Municipal Court.

Feb. 26 – Theft by Deception & Forgery (Old Hook Road)

Detectives were called in after a liquor store reported that an unknown suspect had paid with counterfeit $100 bills on three separate occasions. Following the investigation, a 24-year-old Staten Island man was identified and charged on a complaint summons. He was issued a court appearance date in Emerson Municipal Court.

Feb. 20 – Warrants (Kinderkamack Road)

A routine traffic stop for equipment violations uncovered that the driver, a 52-year-old Carteret man, had an active $2,500 shoplifting warrant from the Ocean County Sheriffʼs Office. He

was taken into custody and later released on his own recognizance with a new court date.

Feb. 19 – Theft of Services (Emerson Plaza East)

Officers responded to a report that a woman had received services but was unable to pay. After locating the suspect, a 43-year-old homeless woman, officers confirmed the alleged theft and took her into custody. She was charged with theft of services and issued a court date. During processing, officers discovered she had multiple outstanding warrants from New Brunswick, and she was ultimately turned over to New Brunswick Police.

Feb. 11 – Warrants (Hasbrouck Avenue)

A motor vehicle stop for multiple equipment violations led to the arrest of a 30-year-old East Orange man. The driverʼs license was suspended, and he had five outstanding municipal court warrants totaling $4,750. He was taken into custody and later turned over to Monroe Police.

Feb. 10 – Warrants (Forest Avenue)

A driver stopped for a cellphone violation was found to have an active $2,500 warrant from Hamilton Regional Court. The 27year-old Carteret man was taken into custody, issued a summons, and released on his own recognizance with a new court date.

CRAF T SHOW CRAF T SHOW

Admission: $3.00 P.J ʼs Promotions • Pat & Joe Tita 201-410-5416 • www.pjspromotions.com NOW 140 Quality Crafters & Artists In 2 Gyms, Vestibule & Cafe Sunday, March 30th • 10am-5pm Paramus High School 99 East Centur y Rd., Paramus

Feb. 5 – Warrants (Kinderkamack Road)

A motor vehicle stop revealed that both the driver, a 23-year-old Union City man, and his passenger, a 22-year-old North Bergen man, had active municipal court warrants. Both were taken into custody and turned over to Union City Police.

HILLSDALE

Feb. 5 – Warrants (Soldier Hill Road)

Officers stopped a vehicle linked to an earlier dispute at a local grocery store. The driver was identified as the registered owner, who had active warrants f rom Hillsdale and River Edge totaling $2,500. The individual

w as taken into custody and turned over to River Edge P olice.

Note: A charge is not a conv iction. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges may be amended or dismissed.

Earns Eagle as a local trailblazer

Congratulations to Evan Minneker, a Boy Scout from Troop 109, who has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout after completing his ambitious project to improve the trails at Sapienza Gardens.

Troop 109, sponsored by Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, has a strong tradition of service, and Evanʼs project is no exception. His work focused on renovating the parkʼs trail system to enhance safety and accessibility for hikers and visitors.

The Sapienza Gardens are located behind Pascack Valley High School, and are also accessable from St. Nicholas Place off of Kinderkamack Road.

The project unfolded in two phases. First, Evan led a team of volunteers in clearing the trails of

fallen logs and leaves, ensuring a safer and more visible path for hikers.

In the second phase, he lined the major trail with logs and fallen branches to help define the walkways and painted trail markers on trees for clearer navigation. Evan also designed and printed a comprehensive trail map, which has been posted on every trail board

throughout the park. The new color-coded trail markers now match the map, making it easier for visitors to explore the gardens with confidence. Following the successful completion of his project, Evan passed his Eagle Board of Review, officially earning the rank of Eagle Scout—the highest achievement in Scouting.

—Via Aedan Geraghty

Sponsored by Project Graduation A Don’t Miss Shopping Event!

Hand Painted Flower Pots, Fiber, Jewelry, Florals, Apparel, Glass Butterflies, Woodworkers, Pottery, Photography, Decorated Flat Ware, Resin Art, Chocolates, Stained Glass, Birdhouses, Art, Area Train Station Prints, Welcome Signs, Gnomes, Olive Oils, Soaps, Home Decor & Much More.

Evan Minneker, a Boy Scout from Troop 109, has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout after completing his project to improve the trails at Sapienza Gardens. Courtesy photos.

7 REASONS TO GET DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental Implants have been vastly improved during the past few decades. Implants have become the standard of care for tooth replacement and are now not only more widely available than in the past but also often considered a covered benefit by many dental insurance plans.

Here are 7 reasons to consider getting a dental implant:

1. Esthetics

Loss of a front tooth is an obvious esthetic issue, but the loss of a back tooth can also become a problem, because the loss of one or more back teeth can lead to an appearance of facial collapse. Back tooth loss can cause a personʼs bite to over close causing the chin and nose to appear to come together during closure resulting in a premature aging appearance.

When a person has less that a full complement of teeth to chew on, the remaining teeth tend to wear down more rapidly, which also may lead to a progressive collapsing of the bite.

2. Function

Most people do not understand the complexity of the masticatory or chewing system. People do not just bite up and down, but in a complex, well-choreographed sequence of motions which allow efficient chewing, while also acting to protect the teeth. Chewing

occurs in an arc-like manner with the muscles, jaws and teeth functioning in harmony with one another.

When just one tooth is lost, the system does not function with peak efficiency and chewing movements must be altered in order to maintain efficiency. Think about a complex mechanical watch with one or two g ears missing. It may function, but p roblems will eventually occur if a ll itʼs parts are not present.

3 . Prevention of Bone loss

Realize it or not, bone is a living organ in our body, and it requires some stress for stimulation in order to maintain a strong healthy state. If bone is taken out of function it will atrophy or shrink. Our teeth act to stimulate our jaw bones as we eat and chew. When we lose a tooth or teeth, the stimulation of the bone in the edentulous area no longer gets stimulation and bone and volume density is lost.

Replacement of a tooth with an implant will act to stimulate the bone much the same way as the original tooth and therefore preserve the bone in the area.

4. Prevention of Tooth Shifting

Many people are aware that when a tooth is lost, teeth in the surrounding area begin to shift because the stability of the dental arch is lost. This phenomenon can be most pronounced when a back tooth is lost. Teeth behind a lost tooth will drift forward and teeth above or below will move down or up into the newly created space.

This shifting can ultimately affect the front teeth as the instability and shifting affects the bite and the changing positions of teeth eventually can cause front teeth to look overlapped or protruded.

As teeth move into improper positions, they tend to also wear unevenly.

5 . Prevention of Fracture a nd additional tooth loss

W hen people lose a back tooth on one side as an example, they t end to avoid that side during chewing and use the opposite side. By chewing on one side, people have a very high risk of breaking teeth or dental restorations on the side that they are heavily chewing on. Dentists often see a cascading effect in their patients where once one tooth is lost, others will follow.

Another reason for accelerated damage to back teeth following tooth loss is that heavy chewing forces are being distributed to less teeth. Think of driving your car on three tires or removing some of the main beams from your house.

Forces plac ed on back teeth can easily exceed a hundred pounds per square inch during function, which is greatly increased in people with missing back teeth. These overtaxed teeth are often prone to fracture and or nerve problems, necessitating root canal treatment or extractions.

The whole process can become a vicious cycle over time as more and more strain is paced on less remaining teeth.

6 . Prevention of Jaw Pain/ TMJ P roblems

We have discussed the complexity of the masticatory system which is made up of the jaws, muscles, teeth and the brain along with peripheral nerves supplying neurological input.

A s mentioned, when this syst em is out of balance, we may adapt o r if that adaptation is not suffic ient, we will often have problems. These problems may range from jaw muscle and joint pain to headaches and in rare cases, devastating debilitation.

In our practice, we have often solved long term painful jaw and tooth complaints by replacing a missing tooth or teeth and/or adjusting a poor bite often caused by tooth loss.

7. Implants are not susceptible to decay

Tooth decay is and always has been a common disease and the dietary trends of today only act to increase the susceptibility of teeth to decay.

So many of the foods and drinks that are consumed by people of all ages will act to break down the protective enamel layer of teeth. Implants are made of titanium and are therefore immune to tooth decay Implants are not immune to gum disease however, so they do require maintenance, at home aa well as with the dental hygienist.

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

PASCACK VALLEY

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

Munch: Second annual outing March 24–30

FROM PAGE 1

wood Ave.) – The newly permanent smash burger joint.

• PJ Finneganʼs (274 Fairview Ave.) – A longtime local favorite known for its Irish fare and cozy pub atmosphere. Additional Restaurant Week discounts are available here.

For those seeking a traditional prix fixe menu, participating restaurants include:

•Tokyo Cafe (59 Washington Ave.) – Japanese, sushi, and Thai cuisine.

•Granita Grille (467 Broadway) – Savory homemade Italian dishes.

• Craft Taco Company (328 Kinderkamack Rd.) – Globally inspired street tacos.

•Pompilioʼs Pizzeria & Restaurant (223 Westwood Ave.) –Family-owned pizzeria.

• Melt Toba (250 Center

Ave.) – Pan-Asian inspired global cuisine.

•The Tavern @ The Iron Horse (20 Washington Ave.) –Culinary creations and signature cocktails.

•Bon (487 Broadway) –Sushi, Korean, and Japanese cuisine.

•Each location will offer

unique Restaurant Week menus, hours, and specials. Diners should check directly with individual restaurants for details.

Exclusive Discounts and Sweet Treats

Several Westwood eateries are offering discounts throughout the week:

•1950s Originals (325 Broadway) – Premium hot dogs.

Homemade breads, pizza, sandwiches, and baked goods.

• Bop N Sushi (441 Broadway) – Korean and Japanese cuisine.

• Harmony Tea Room (224 Fairview Ave.) – Finger sandwiches, sweets, and tea.

•For a morning pick-me-up or a healthy treat, both Freyja Coffee Shop (288 Third Ave.) and Playa Bowls (99 Westwood Ave.) will offer specials throughout the event.

Giveaways Galore

T hroughout March, customers can enter “no purchase necessary” giveaways at paricipating restaurants and select commercial partners, including:

•Al Dente Fresh Pasta Co. (301 Center Ave.)– Authentic fresh pasta.

•Lucianoʼs Pizzeria & Bakery (301 Center Ave.) –

•Yellow Door

Art Studio (24 Booker St.) – Creative space for art and parties.

• Visions Federal Credit Union (78 Washington Ave.).

•Westwood Art Gallery (10 Westwood Ave.) – Custom frame design experts.

•Supp Hub (289 Westwood Ave.) – Vitamins and supplements.

•Collected Works (273 Westwood Ave.) – Unique gifts and home decor.

Prizes include $25 gift cards to participating businesses and additional mystery certificates from local sponsors, including Bugging Out Termite & Pest Control, Flawless Finish Power Washing, and Modera Wealth Management.

About Celebrate Westwood Since 2018, Celebrate Westwood has launched community events and programming such as Music on the Avenues, Arts in the Park, Westwood-Wide Garage Sale Weekends, the Early New Yearʼs Eve Ball Drop, and Westwood Fest. Two active subcommittees—BIZhub and ArtsHub— support local commerce, networking, and creative projects.

For more information, to register as a participating business, or to view the full schedule of Celebrate Westwoodʼs 2025 events, visit celebratewestwood.org.

For inquiries, contact Lauren Letizia & RoseAnn Ciarlante, chairs, Celebrate Westwood, celebratewestwood@gmail.com.

Troop 350 taking orders on lawn flags

Westwood Scout Troop 350 invites the community to take part in its 2025 “Stars and Stripes” fundraiser, a program that allows residents to proudly display the

American flag throughout the year in honor of national holidays. Troop 350 will place a 12” x 18” poly-cotton American stick flag curbside in participating front yards on six

patriotic holidays: Memorial Day –Monday, May 26; Flag Day – Saturday, June 14; Independence Day –Friday, July 4; Labor Day – Monday, Sept. 1; Patriot Day – Thursday, Sept. 11; and Veterans Day –Tuesday, Nov. 11.

The cost is $25 per year for one flag per holiday or $50 per year for two flags per holiday. Available only to residents of Westwood and Washington Township.

Sign up by May 15 by emailing WestwoodTroop350@gmail.com with name, address, email, and phone number. Venmo, PayPal, and checks accepted.

St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club says “Join

for The 1950s Experience one-man

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Westwood Recreationʼs Forever Young program continues its popular seminar series with two upcoming sessions designed to support the health and financial well-being of residents 55 and older.

On March 25, Forever Young participants will conclude the

Nutrition & Cooking for One series with a focus on nutritious snacks. This hands-on session follows two previous installments, including the most recent on Jan. 28, where attendees prepared chicken gnocchi soup with Chef Roseanne Brill of The Crafty Kitchen and learned about low-sodium, high-

fiber ingredients from nutritionist Marla Klein.

Educational seminars and learning luncheons have long been a staple of Forever Young, a free fitness and activity program for Westwood residents 55 and older. Thanks to a Bergen County Block Grant, the program has expanded

to offer a range of wellness and recreational activities, including chair yoga, tai chi, creative writing, crafting, and an open gym basketball program. These complement its regular lineup of mahjong, art, cardio fitness, strength and conditioning, pickleball, and yoga.

The success of Forever Young supports Westwoodʼs mission of promoting aging in place by providing a well-rounded wellness program. The department regular-

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

ly partners with local doctors, nutritionists, chefs, and other wellness professionals to offer informative seminars on preventative care and healthy living.

Registration for all Forever Young seminars is available by emailing rciarlante@westwoodnj.gov.

For more information, contact Gary Buchheister, Westwood Recreation Director, at gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov or 201664-7882.

The Golden Seniors of Washington Township are now accepting applications for their 2025 scholarship program, which will award two $1,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors who reside in the township and plan to continue their education.

Scholarship Eligibility and Criteria

• The scholarship must be used for tuition at an accredited institution, including colleges, business schools, nursing programs, or technical schools.

• Recipients will receive the award in one payment upon proof of enrollment.

•While academic achievement is a key factor, the selection committee will also consider financial need, community

involvement, and extracurricular activities.

•Applications must be completed in full and include a high school transcript. Incomplete applications will be disqualified.

How to Apply Applications are available at:

•Westwood High School Guidance Office

•Immaculate Heart Academy Guidance Office

•Township of Washington Library

Submission Deadline: Completed applications must be submitted no later than May 15. For more information, contact the Golden Seniors Scholarship Committee at 201-666-8199.

Let us promote your organization.

or

Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

EMERSON

B ROOKDALE E MERSON CELEBRATESWITH I RISHDANCE

Residents and guests at Brookdale Emerson enjoyed a lively St. Patrickʼs Day celebration filled with Irish traditions, music, and dance.

The highlight of the day was a performance by Bergenfield School of Irish Dance students, who captivated the audience with their skillful Irish step dancing while dressed in traditional costumes.

Festivities continued with a live viewing of the St. Patrickʼs Day parade, followed by a spirited

happy hour featuring classic Irish songs, green beer, Irish soda bread, cupcakes, and other festive treats. The celebration concluded with a traditional Irish feast of corned beef and cabbage.

“May the luck of the Irish be with you today and always!” said Carol Habler of Brookdale Emerson.

Brookdale Emerson is at 590 Old Hook Road, Emerson. For more information call (201) 9869009.

Carol Habler photos

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

PASCACK VALLEY

April dates for ESL tutor trainings

Make a difference in your community....volunteer to teach English as a Second Language! Since 1982, Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley has been training volunteers to teach English to adults in their community. This online workshop is run by a certified trainer and the program is an accredited member of Proliteracy.

Upon completion of the work-

shop, LVPV will match the volunteer with an appropriate student. This workshop is open to residents of Allendale, Cresskill, Dumont, Emerson, Hillsdale, Lodi, Montvale, Paramus, Park Ridge, Ramsey, River Vale, Teaneck, Westwood, and Wyckoff. Most tutoring is in person at the libraries, but online tutoring is also an option.

Literacy Volunteers of Pascack

Valley is pleased to announce the next online four-session Tutor Training Workshop on April 1, 8, 15 and 22 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Volunteers must be 18 or older. Contact the coordinator staff,Cheryl Chang or Paula Ricca, at literacyvolunteerspv@gmail.com to register. You may also register at literacyvolunteerspv.org/tutortraining-workshop-form.html

Paramus Catholic teen connects

When a celebrity from “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” asked for help collecting Christmas donations, 15-year-old Ty Sackman didnʼt just step up—he took over.

The Paramus Catholic High School freshman and wrestler turned what could have been a small effort into a communitywide initiative, gathering 350 coats and a sled full of toys for families at Hilltop Haven, a domestic violence shelter in Paterson.

Ty launched the effort after Dolores Catania, a longtime supporter of the shelter, reached out to his mother, Jennifer Sergeant. He made flyers and posters, appealed to local businesses, and set up donation bins—including at the Colonial Bar in Ridgefield, owned by his aunt.

With help from his mother, Catania, and family members, Ty delivered the donations just before Christmas, greeted by a contingent from Paterson Mayor Andr é Sayeghʼs office. Every

Via michael@mmc-communication.com.

item was claimed within hours.

“Service is at the heart of what we teach,” said Dr. Stephanie Macaluso, principal of Paramus Catholic, which requires students to complete service hours each year. “Tyʼs leadership shows the real impact one person can have.”

Now, Ty is at it again—this

time collecting pots, pans, and kitchen utensils for the shelterʼs families. Donations can be dropped off at Paramus Catholic High School (425 Paramus Road, Paramus) or the Colonial Bar (719 Grand Ave, Ridgefield). For more information call (201) 943-1325. Via MMC-COMMUNICATIONS

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

Left to right: Anthony Papavasiliou; Paterson Mayor André Sayegh; volunteer Sky Walsh, 8; Ty Sackman; “Housewives” star Dolores Catania; and Ty’s mom Jennifer Sergeant.

FROM PAGE 5

heavy corridors.

• 30% of parking requirements would be eliminated for developments between one-half and one mile of a rail or major bus station.

For Westwood, this translates to nearly 75% of our streets. The same applies to River Edge, O radell, Emerson, Hillsdale, Woodcliff Lake, Park Ridge, Montvale, and Paramus.

These changes passed committee with just three votes in favor:

• Senator Troy Singleton (D, Dist. 7, Burlington County)

•Senator Carmen Amato, Jr. (R, Dist. 9, Ocean County)

Senator Benjie Wimberly (D, Dist. 35, Bergen and Passaic)

•Our local District 39 Senator, Holly Schepisi, was not present, listed as a no vote.

The Reality in Pascack Valley

Some planners envision a car-free future where residents rely solely on public transportation. That is not reality in Pascack Valley.

Westwood already has a parking shortage, made worse by the rise of service-based businesses that require more parking than retail. Complaints about illegal residential street parking are increasing. In response, we

restructured our Parking Utility and are working on a Parking Master Plan.

Councilwomen Lauren L etizia and Cheryl Hodges recently conducted a full inventory of downtown parking spaces a nd presented findings to the P lanning Board and Borough Council. If S2974 passes, municipalities will no longer be able to regulate residential parking near transit stations at all.

The assumption that people living near transit wonʼt own cars is false. Residential buildings near train stations still have full parking garages. A Westwood Police Department analysis of a rea DMV registrations found that car ownership continues to rise, even in transit-heavy areas.

A

Real-World Example: Living Without a Car in the Pascack Valley

Imagine a Friday schedule for a local family with two young children:

• By car, they complete school drop-offs, activities, and a birthday party trip in 70 minutes—at a $15 gas cost.

•By public transit, the same schedule takes 6-plus hours and costs $21.60.

•This route requires walking along Route 17—a major highway with no pedestrian access—to reach the birthday party.

•On Saturday, the family has a 9 a.m. sports match in Park Ridge. The only train option? 1:23 a.m.—or a $17 Uber.

These scenarios are not uncommon—they reflect daily life in a suburban region where transit options are limited.

The Flawed Assumptions Behind These Bills

The sponsors of S2974 and S1408 argue that suburban car culture is an outdated relic, that public transit is reliable, and that personal vehicles are unnecessary.

That is not the case in Pascack Valley. These communities have grown organically, with incremental, thoughtful planning that balances infrastructure needs with residentsʼquality of life.

This legislation represents top-down, one-size-fits-all planning that ignores local realities. It removes decision-making from the people who actually live here and hands it to developers and bureaucrats in Trenton.

Take Action Now

We urge residents to contact their state legislators today:

• Sen. Holly Schepisi (SenSchepisi@njleg.org)

•Assemblyman Robert Auth (AsmAuth@njleg.org)

•Assemblyman John Azzariti (AsmAzzariti@njleg.org)

We cannot afford to let these bills pass unchecked. If enacted, they will forever change our towns—for the worse.

By Ray Arroyo, Westwood Mayor, and Lauren Letizia, Westwood Councilmember and Planning Board liaison

COMMUNITY CHESS CLUBFORYOUTH

The Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee is inviting young minds to engage in one of the worldʼs most strategic and timeless games with the launch of the Community Chess Club for ages 5 to 14.

Led by Coach Desai of the NJ Sports Academy, the club will provide a fun, interactive environment where children can learn the fundamentals of chess strategy, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Whether a beginner learning the basics or a more experienced player looking to refine their skills, young participants will have the opportunity to sharpen their strategic thinking, compete with peers, and master the "game of kings."

Classes Catered to All Skill Levels

The program runs on Wednesdays from April 23 to June 11, with sessions tailored to different age groups and experience levels:

•Foundation Chess (Ages 58): 4–4:50 p.m.

•Foundation Chess (Ages 914): 5–5:50 p.m.

•Intermediate Chess (Ages 9-14): 6–6:50 p.m.

Chess has long been praised for boosting cognitive develop-

ment, improving concentration, and fostering patience and sportsmanship. Through this program, children will learn the fundamentals of the game, develop tactics, and apply strategic thinking in real-time matches—all under the guidance of an experienced coach.

“We are thrilled to offer this opportunity for children to explore the world of chess,” said Liz Falkenstern, Director of the Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee. “This program is not just about learning how to play— itʼs about building confidence, sharpening problem-solving skills, and having fun.” Interested families can register by emailing newjerseysportsacademy@gmail.com or calling 646-541-3976.

For more details, visit the Park Ridge Borough website at www parkridgeboro.com, or contact the Recreation Department at 201-573-1800, ext. 521.

Black

Hardwood Mulch

Hardwood Mulch

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

IHA presents three-school ‘Matilda the Musical’

Immaculate Heart Academy is proud to present Roald Dahlʼs “Matilda the Musical.” Performances are April 4 at 7:30 p.m., April 5 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and April 6 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for children, students, and seniors, and $20 for adults.

The cast and crew are composed of students from IHA, St. Joseph Regional High School, and Pascack Hills High School. Cast members include: Jenna Circelli ʼ27 (Park Ridge); Elliott Daniels ʼ26 (Wyckoff); Jillian Griglio ʼ28 (River Edge); Grace Higgins ʼ28 (Park Ridge); Gianna Ippolito ʼ27 (Woodcliff Lake); Gianna Kokotas ʼ28 (Cliffside Park); Madison Les ʼ26 (Paramus); Megan McCarthy

WWRSD 2025–2026 preschool registration

The Westwood Regional School District will begin its annual preschool registration for the Integrated Preschool program for the 2025–2026 school year. This is a tuition-based program with an annual cost to be determined. “To be eligible, your child must be 3 years old and less than 5 years of age on or before Oct. 1, 2025. If you have a child residing in the Borough of Westwood or Township of Washington,

please visit our website for an overview of the program and tuition payment schedule.”

An application can be downloaded from the district website at www.wwrsd.org. Under the Menu dropdown, select Preschool. You also can pick this up at the Department of Special Servicesʼoffice. For assistance, contact Christine McNeil at 201-664-0880 ext. 2047 or christine.mcneil@wwrsd.org

ʼ25 (Mahwah); Tara McCarthy ʼ26 (Mahwah); Siobhan Murphy ʼ28 (Glen Rock); Olivia Pantano ʼ25 (Mahwah); Kaylie OʼConnell ʼ27 (Cedar Grove); Lara Piccitto ʼ27 (South Hackensack); Lola Rose Projahn ʼ25 (Glen Rock); Melina Rambadt ʼ28 (Franklin Lakes); Emilia Reilly ʼ28 (Park Ridge); Brooke Rodriguez ʼ25 (May-

wood); Kianna Sadati ʼ28 (Elmwood Park); Mia Severino ʼ26 (Ridgefield); Shoshana Thompson ʼ25 (Fair Lawn); Sophia Thompson ʼ28 (Ringwood); Stella Tineo ʼ28 (Montvale); Julianna Valenti ʼ28 (Passaic); Lily Yezdanian ʼ27 (Clifton).

For more information or to order tickets, visit ihanj.com or

Sylvan

Learning of Park Ridge for academic support

As the school year enters its final stretch, Sylvan Learning of Park Ridge provides personalized tutoring for students in grades K-12. Specializing in reading, writing, math, and SAT/ACT prep, Sylvan offers tailored instruction to help students strengthen their skills.

On Saturday, March 29, Sylvan is hosting a free event with reading and math assessments for students in grades 1–8. Free SAT practice tests are available on the first Saturday of each month; summer SAT prep classes begin June 24.

Sylvan Learning of Park Ridge is at 184 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge. For more information call (201) 746-6977.

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Fun and Mindful Kids Yoga

Park Ridge Recreation is introducing a new after-school yoga program for K–2—a playful and engaging way for young children to build strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. Classes are Mondays from 4–5 p.m., March 24–May 5 at the Community Center behind Borough Hall. Yoga mats will be provided.

Led by local Park Ridge parents Paul Herdemian (RYT 200, KAY Certified) and Theresa Marino (KAY/KKY Certified), the program encourages kids to jump, breathe, and relax while having fun.

The cost is $150 for the full six-week session or $30 per class for drop-ins. For more information, visit parkridgeboro.com or contact Park Ridge Recreation Director Liz Falkenstern at (201) 573-1800 ext. 521 or Paul Herdemian at (845) 573-3293.

call IHA at 201-445-6800. Immaculate Heart Academy is at 500 Van Emburgh Ave.

Founded in 1960, Immaculate Heart Academy is an all-girls Catholic regional high school of the Archdiocese of Newark presently celebrating its 65th year.

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.

PARK RIDGE

PARK RIDGE

WESTWOOD

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Improve focus and motivation —naturally

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention

D eficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnoses have skyrocketed in recent years.

A ccording to the CDC, the number of children diagnosed with ADHD has increased by over 40% in the past t wo decades. Meanwhile, prescriptions for stimulant medications like Ritalin and Adderall have followed suit, with millions of Americans relying on these drugs to stay focused and productive. While these medications can o ffer short-term benefits, they

also come with potential side effects, including anxiety, insomnia, and high blood pressure. The real question we should be asking is: why is our society experiencing such a surge in attention problems, and what natural solutions exist to enhance focus and motivation?

A key factor often overlooked is lifestyle. The modern world is saturated with distract ions. Social media, endless scrolling, binge-watching, and notifications have trained our brains to crave constant stimulation, leading to shorter attention spans. At the same time, people are moving less, sleeping poorly, and consuming diets loaded with processed foods, all of which impact brain function. Instead of i mmediately resorting to pre-

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scription stimulants, foundational lifestyle changes can be highly effective in improving concentration and drive.

The Ultimate Brain Booster

One of the most important steps to enhancing focus naturally is movement. Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, and promotes neuroplasticity—the brainʼs ability to adapt and form new connections. Studies show that children who engage in daily physical activity perform better on cognitive tests and have fewer symptoms of hyperactivity and inattention. For adults, exercise can be just as

beneficial. Activities like strength training, yoga, or even a brisk walk can significantly boost mental clarity and productivity. The key is variation—donʼt stick to the same workout every day. Challenge your brain by switching up your routine, incorporating new exercises, and trying different activities.

Diet: Fuel for a Sharper Mind

The brain is fueled by what we eat, and processed, high-sugar diets contribute to inflammation and sluggish thinking. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, has been shown to support memory and attention. Additionally, avoiding artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and food dyes—many of which have been linked to hyperactivity—can make a significant difference. Staying hydrated and maintaining stable blood sugar levels through balanced meals can prevent brain fog and fatigue.

Keep Your Brain Engaged

The brain thrives on new experiences and learning. Doing the same activities repeatedly leads to stagnation, while engaging in fresh challenges stimulates brain activity. Try learning a new language, picking up an instrument, or solving different types of puzzles. Even something as simple as taking a different route to work or brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand can create new neural pathways that keep your mind sharp.

Sleep: The Key to Focus

Many people assume they can function well on five or six hours of sleep, but research consistently shows that sleep deprivation impairs cognitive function,

memory, and mood. Deep sleep is when the brain consolidates learning and clears out toxins that build up throughout the day. Creating a consistent sleep schedu le, avoiding blue light from screens before bed, and keeping the bedroom cool and dark can drastically improve sleep quality and, in turn, mental performance.

Stress Management: Reducing Cortisol for Clearer Thinking

Managing stress is crucial for mental clarity. Chronic stress floods the body with cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with memory, reduce focus, and lead t o burnout. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and spending time in nature can all help lower cortisol levels and enhance concentration. Reducing screen time, especially mindless scrolling on social media, can also prevent the constant dopamine spikes that lead to attention fragmentation.

The Ultimate Motivator

The brain is adaptable, and with the right habits, it can be trained to function at its highest potential. By making small, intentional changes—moving more, eating better, sleeping well, learning new things, reducing stress, and aligning our activities with our passions—we can reclaim our ability to focus, stay motivated, and thrive in an increasingly distracting world.

Great Deals! Act Now!

If youʼre looking for a more in-depth approach to improving focus, motivation, and overall brain function, I encourage you to explore functional neurology At Kaplan Brain & Body, we specialize in non-invasive methods to optimize brain health.

For a limited time, we are offering a qEEG brain mapping session ($600 value) for only $21 to the first seven people who respond to this article. A qEEG brain map can help pinpoint areas of the brain that may be contributing to difficulties with focus, motivation, memory, energy, and even sleep quality

To schedule your brain mapping session, call or text 646-2216738 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com.

For more information about our services, visit www.kaplandc.com. Follow my weekly articles for updates on upcoming lectures, and check out our social media for valuable health tips:

• Instagram: @kaplanbrainbody

• Facebook: Kaplan Brain and Body

•YouTube: Kaplan Brain and Body

Also, tune in to my radio show every Saturday morning at 8 a.m. on 970 AM and Saturday afternoons at 2 p.m. on 710 AM for insights into brain health and performance.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Seniors: Streamlined property tax relief application

In a historic first for New Jersey, seniors aged 65 and older and disabled homeowners can now apply for three state property tax relief programs using a single application.

requirement of the StayNJ Act (P.L. 2023, c. 75), which mandates a simplified process for property tax relief.

The new PAS-1 combined application will allow eligible residents to apply for Senior Freeze, ANCHOR, and the forthcoming StayNJ program in one step, eliminating the need for multiple forms. The change fulfills a application.

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VALLEY

Key Benefits of the New Application:

•No more separate forms for Senior Freeze and ANCHOR— one application covers all programs.

• No need to submit proof of property tax payments with the

•Easier online filing at propertytaxrelief.nj.gov.

• Paper filing option still available for those who prefer it.

The New Jersey Division of Taxation is mailing the PAS-1 application to over one million households statewide. The deadline to apply is Oct. 31, 2025, and benefits will begin being distributed in July 2025 on a rolling basis.

Deadline for military bridge April 21

The NJSFWC Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club is pleased to invite you to an evening of military bridge on Friday, April 25, at the Montvale Senior Center on Memorial Drive. The doors open at 6 p.m.; play starts at 7.

Military bridge is a fun variation of contract bridge that originated with servicemen in World War II. It has evolved to feature teams of players competing against each other to win flags

EMERSON

and prizes. No formal knowledge of bridge is needed- and may even prove to be a liability. There will be people available to teach participants how to play the game.

The event will include Tricky Tray raffles, a 50/50 raffle and a variety of refreshments to enjoy with your friends and neighbors while helping to raise money for local charities.

Tickets are $15 per person. All funds raised will be disbursed by the club to local charities and

as scholarships at local high schools. To secure your place, your check should be mailed to the Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club, PO Box 3, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. The deadline for registrations is April 21. Include the names of the people you will be playing with, as seating will be assigned.

Seats can be reserved, and questions answered by calling the club at 201-307-8902 or emailing gpvwc1990@gmail.com.

Eating For Health With Michael Merida

Residents looking to learn more about nutrition while enjoying healthy cuisine will have a special opportunity later this month. On Thursday, March 27, Mayor Danielle DiPaola and the Emerson Governing Body will host “Eating for Health” at the Emerson Senior Center, 20 Palisade Avenue, at 7 p.m.

The event will feature Chef Michael Merida, the acclaimed winner of the Food Networkʼs “Beat Bobby Flay.” Merida, known for his expertise in crafting flavorful and nutritious dishes, is

the owner of Craft Taco Co. in Westwood and Rockinʼ Roots in Hillsdale. He will prepare a selection of healthy creations for attendees to sample, showcasing ways to enjoy delicious food while maintaining a balanced diet.

In addition to the culinary experience, health educator Alexandra Giordano will deliver a

presentation on nutrition, offering insights into making informed food choices for better health.

The event is free, sponsored by the Emerson Mayor & Council, the Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission, the Emerson Board of Health, and the Mayors Wellness Campaign, a statewide initiative that promotes healthy lifestyles in New Jersey communities. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn from experts, sample nutritious dishes, and gain valuable health insights in a fun and welcoming environment.

Who Can Use the PAS-1 Application?

•Only seniors (65+) and disabled homeowners are eligible to use PAS-1. Most other homeowners and renters receiving ANCHOR benefits will instead receive an ANCHOR Benefit Confirmation Letter this summer confirming their automatic eligibility or an ANCHOR Application Mailer inviting them to apply.

Important Changes for Past Recipients

• Senior Freeze Applicants: Income eligibility limits have changed.

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• 2024 income limit: $168,268

•2023 income limit: $163,050

• Proof of property tax payments is no longer required.

ANCHOR Homeowner Recipients:

•No longer required to have an identification number and PIN to file.

In late 2025, the Division of Taxation will send letters outlining individual benefit amounts for each program.

For more information or to file online, visit propertytaxrelief.nj.gov.

LIBRARYBOARD MEETINGS FOR 2025

The Westwood Library Board has announced its 2025 meeting schedule. All meetings will be held on Mondays at 7 p.m. The subsequent meetings are scheduled for March 24, April 21, May 19, June 16, July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 15, Oct. 20, Nov.17, and Dec. 15. These meetings are open to the public and provide an opportunity for community members to engage with library leadership. For more information, visit westwoodpubliclibrary.org or stop by the library, at 49 Park Ave.

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

Solo agers have more resources than they might think

Dear Savvy Senior,

Iʼm a divorced 68-year-old childless cat lady and have been thinking a lot lately about who will look after me when I get older a nd my health falters. What resources are available to solo seniors like me, and where can I turn to find a reliable person to be my emergency contact, as well as lookout for my health, financial matters and living arrangements in my elder years?

—Solo Ager

Dear Solo,

This is a common concern for the 22 million solo agers across the United States who donʼt have adult children or other family they can depend on to watch out for their well-being. Here are some tips and resources that can help you plan ahead.

Choosing Helpers and Decision Makers

While older adults who have children or are married usually name offspring or spouses as proxies/decision makers, solo agers most often choose a sibling, niece or nephew, or rely on a trusted friend or neighbor. Whomever you choose, talk to them first to make sure theyʼre up for the task. If, however, you donʼt have anyone you feel comfortable with, or who is willing to take on that responsibility, you can hire someone. One of the best resources for this is an aging life care manager. These are trained professionals in the area of geriatric care who

often have backgrounds in nursing or social work and can serve as your emergency contact, oversee your care and even act as your executor. They can also connect you with professional legal and financial services in your area that can help you manage your affairs.

Aging life care managers typically charge $100 to $300 an hour, depending on their location and experience. To search for an expert near you, visit aginglifecare.org.

If you canʼt afford this, there are other reliable sources you can turn to for specific help. For example, if you havenʼt already done so, you need to prepare a basic estate plan (including a power of attorney, advance directive and a will) to ensure your wishes are carried out if you become incapacitated and when you die.

To help you prepare these documents, your best option is to hire an experienced estate planning attorney, which can cost $500 to $2,000. He or she may also be able to act as your power of attor-

We run milestones!

Let us announce your achievements. Submissions to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

PUBLIC NOTICE

Park Ridge Recreation & Cultural Committee Meetings held in the Community Center 7:30 pm. Meetings generally held on the 3rd Monday unless there is a federal holiday. 01/21/2025 -(Reorg Meeting), 02/24/2025, 03/17/2025, 04/21/2025, 05/19/2025, 06/16/2025, 07/21/2025, 08/18/2025, 09/15/2025, 10/20/2025, 11/17/2025, 12/15/2025 53 Park Avenue Park Ridge, NJ 07656

ney or executor, or help you locate a professional in your area that can. To locate someone, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (naela.org) and National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (naepc.org) have online directories to help you search.

If you need help with billpaying there are services like SilverBills (silverbills.com), or you can work with a daily money manager (aadmm.com) who, in addition to paying bills, can handle tasks like balancing your checkbook and organizing tax information. And to help you navigate care and senior housing options

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there are certified senior advisors (csa.us).

Itʼs also a good idea to meet with a financial adviser to help figure out what services and living arrangements you can afford and what steps you can take to ensure that your financial resources last your lifetime. If you donʼt have an adviser, you can find a fee-only, fiduciary financial planner trough the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors at napfa.org.

Other helpful resources you can turn to include Aging Alone Together (dorotusa.org/agingalonetogether), a program offered by DOROT, which is a nonprofit

social services organization that provides practical ways to help solo agers prepare for the future. They offer a free, six-session virtual workshop (offered weekly) via Zoom starting April 24.

Also see Navigating Solo (navigatingsolo.com), a national clearinghouse of resources for solo agers and information about solo-ager groups in the United States.

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.

Westwood-wide garage sale signups

Registration is open for Westwood residents looking to participate in the Westwood Wide Garage Sale on Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Residents are encouraged to celebrate Earth Day (April 22) by upcycling their goods to keep them out of landfills. This yearʼs event is one day only with a rain date scheduled for April 27 at the discretion of the participating addresses.

Past events have exceeded 25 registered addresses with all locations keeping the proceeds of

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

their sales. Meanwhile, proceeds from registration ($20 per location) go toward Celebrate Westwood's efforts to advertise the event across local newspapers and social media, as well as towards future community events organized by the 501(c)3 non-profit. Since 2018, Celebrate Westwood has launched community events and programming including Music on the Avenues, Arts in the Park, Westwood-Wide garage sale weekends, the Early New Yearʼs Eve Ball Drop, and Westwood Fest. Two active subcom-

mittees — BIZhub and ArtsHub — support local commercial activity, networking, creative projects and installations, through the community.

Registration is open through April 5, after which date a full directory of participating addresses and sale highlights will be shared to celebratewestwood.org. To register, go to celebratewestwood.org.

For more information connect with Lauren Letizia and RoseAnn Ciarlante at celebratewestwood@gmail.com.

Works wonders, lands Gold Award

Congratulations to Lilianna Trimarchi, a senior at Westwood Regional High School and a lifelong Girl Scout, who has earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award for her work on mental health awareness and wellness.

A township resident and member of Troop 2000, Trimarchi has been involved in Girl Scouts since kindergarten, earning both her Bronze and Silver Awards before completing the highest honor, the Gold Award.

She is part of the Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey Council, based in Paramus.

For her Gold Award project, Lilianna focused on mental health and wellness, dedicating her time to organizing wellness sessions for children at the Washington Township Senior Center throughout the summer and early fall. These sessions included yoga, dance, arts and crafts, col-

oring, and stress-relief techniques designed to help young children develop healthy coping strategies. As a final piece of her project, on Thursday, Feb. 27 Trimarchi donated coloring books, crayons, and leaf-shaped cushions to the childrenʼs section of the Washington Township Public Library. She has also volunteered her time at the libraryʼs storytime ses-

sions, reading to young children and fostering a love for learning.

Trimarchi plans to attend college in the fall, where she will pursue a degree in early childhood education, continuing her passion for working with and supporting young children.

“Lilianna is honored to be receiving her Gold Award, which represents years of dedication, leadership, and service to her community,” said her mother, Maria Trimarchi, who also serves as Troop 2000ʼs leader.

—Via Maria Trimarchi

A township resident, Troop 2000’s Lilianna Trimarchi has been involved in Girl Scouts since kindergarten.

TRIMARCHI

Women of Valor lauded at Immaculate Heart Academy

As part of its celebration of Womenʼs History Month in March, Immaculate Heart Academy is recognizing a group of impressive students in a lobby display, “Women of Valor Among Us: IHA Women Making History Today.”

IHA is proud to celebrate thirteen students who continuously use their unique gifts and talents to make history during their time at The Heart. Each featured student is displayed on a poster highlighting their special characteristics and achievements.

These young women will be honored throughout the month of

March and were celebrated at a special reception with their families on March 13. Said IHA, “Thank you to each of these students who continue to strengthen their Catholic values and grow into empowered, confident young women prepared to embrace the world beyond Immaculate Heart.”

Women of Valor Among Us: IHA Women Making History We Love to See Women Who…

Raise the Bar for Character in Our Community – Emma McElroy ʼ25 (Cedar Grove)

Take Leadership to a New Level –Anne Marie Kelly ʼ25 (Ramsey)

Make Their Home at The Heart, Then Make The Heart a Better Home – Samantha Sundlin ʼ26 (Hillsdale)

Make Excellence a Way of Life –Piper Portacio ʼ25 (Rochelle Park)

Dream Up Solutions Through Service – Etain Moore ʼ26 (Chestnut Ridge)

Face Challenges With Grit –Meghan Long ʼ26 (Park Ridge)

Make Friendship an Art Form –Carla Tobin ʼ25 (Nanuet)

Build the Community They Wish They Had – Mia Severino ʼ26 (Ridgefield)

Pioneer a Culture of Blue Eagle Pride – Erin Sullivan ʼ26 (Wyckoff)

Make Kindness and Inclusivity

Their Highest Priority – Malia Hamilton ʼ27 (Teaneck)

Confidently Command the Stage –Katherine Ryan ʼ25 (Pearl River)

Are Bold Enough to Seek the Truth – Gabriella Tarinelli ʼ27 (Hoboken)

Are Committed to Sharing Their Passions – Riley Cannon ʼ26 (Wyckoff)

Founded in 1960, Immaculate Heart Academy is an all-girls Catholic regional high school of the Archdiocese 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.

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.

Women of Valor Among Us: IHA Women Making History Today. Credit Mike Hamlett Photography.

PARK RIDGE ROTARY FOUNDATIONOFFERSSCHOLARSHIPS

The Park Ridge Rotary Charity Foundation is proud to announce its 2025 college scholarship program, extending a more than 40-year tradition of Rotary offering financial support to deserving high school seniors

from Park Ridge, Montvale, and Woodcliff Lake. Grants will be awarded based on financial need, academic achievement, and contributions to school and community life. One special scholarship is designated for a Park Ridge High School senior planning to major in Education. This award honors the memory of Dr. Robert Balentine, a former superintendent of Park Ridge High School and a dedicated member of the Park Ridge Rotary Club for over 40 years.

Project Graduation

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Get ready for an exciting afternoon of basketball, tricks, and family fun as the Harlem Wizards take on local teachers and administrators in a high-energy, interactive game at Westwood Regional High School on Sunday, April 6, from 2 to 4 p.m. (doors open at 1 p.m.).

The world-famous Harlem Wizards, known for their jawdropping basketball skills, trick shots, and entertaining antics, will face off against a team of teachers and administrators from Westwoodʼs elementary and middle schools, making this a must-see

community showdown filled with laughs, excitement, and friendly competition.

This family-friendly event is a fantastic way to spend the afternoon while supporting a great cause—WRHS Project Graduation 2026. Project Graduation is a safe, substance-free celebration for graduating seniors, ensuring they have a memorable night to cap off their high school experience. Tickets are on sale now! For more information, including how to purchase tickets, scan the QR code above. Donʼt miss out on this unforgettable afternoon of basketball, fun, and community spirit!

L. SCOTTBERKOBEN, P.A.

“Guilty,

as charged...”

...frightening words if directed at you,

and with consequences ranging from fines to jail time and even to the break up of families and loss of hope for the future.

We’re in some court on most days, dealing with criminal cases, DWI, drugs, violence and a variety of matters... all very serious in nature. We feel a good defense might be all a person needs to straighten out a life.

Experienced Municipal Prosecutors and Defenders

of the results in early June. The Rotary Foundation will notify schools of scholarship recipients prior to senior assemblies, where the awards will be formally presented.

How

to Apply

Application Details

T he completed application and all required supporting documents must be submitted by April 15. The Rotary Foundation Scholarship Committee will carefully review applications to ensure eligibility and adherence to requirements. Applicants will be notified

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Students can obtain an application form through the Guidance Department Office at Park Ridge High School, Pascack Hills High School, or St. Joseph Regional High School. A PDF version of the 2025 scholarship application form is also available for download on the Park Ridge Rotary website: https://portal.clubrunner.ca/2088.

Visit the homepage and click on the toolbar marked “2025 Scholarship Program Form.”

For questions, contact Scholarship Committee chair Linda Hanlon at 201-819-8281 or via email at Lindah211@aol.com.

Support the Foundation

The Park Ridge Rotary Charity Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are always appreciated and help support programs like this scholarship initiative. Contributions can be sent to: Park Ridge Rotary Charity Foundation, P.O. Box 265, Park Ridge, NJ 0765.

Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center fundraiser returns

Mark your calendars! Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center invites you to its Tricky Tray & Live Auction Fundraiser on Saturday, May 3, from 6 to 10 p.m.

This yearʼs “Once Upon a Time” theme celebrates a love of reading, featuring a tree bookshelf filled with student-donated favorites as a special auction item. Expect a magical evening of prizes, community spirit, and fundraising for Zionʼs youngest learners.

A Tradition of Learning and Giving

Founded in 1969, Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center has provided a nurturing, Christian-based learning environment for preschoolers. Originally established as Zion Lutheran Nursery School, the program has evolved into a highly

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regarded state-licensed preschool, staffed by certified teachers and qualified assistants. The curriculum fosters social, intellectual, and creative growth, with a focus on language, math, science, arts, music, and motor skills development.

Event Highlights

This adult-only, BYOB event includes a catered buffet, three Tricky Tray rooms, a spirited live auction, and a 50/50 raffle. Attendees can win big-ticket prizes such as a barbecue grill, Yeti cooler, flatscreen TV, paddleboard, sports tickets, family experiences, themed bundles, local gift cards, and more. Funds raised support Zionʼs education programs for 2.5-, 3-, and 4-year-olds. Previous fundraising efforts have contributed to campus improvements, including a new

parking lot, a fenced-in field, new classroom furniture, and art supplies. Future funds will continue enhancing the spiritual, emotional, intellectual, physical, and social growth of Zionʼs students.

Donations and Sponsorships

Tax-deductible donations are accepted until March 10. Contributions of gift certificates, auction items, or monetary support are welcome. Corporate sponsorships are also available. Contact ZionWWFundraising@gmail.com to arrange a pickup.

Tickets and Sales For more information, visit zionlutheranschool.org or write ZionWWfundraising@gmail.com.

Turning over a lovely idea — you can help

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the GFWC/NJSFWC Womanʼs Club of Westwood is proud to support the Pinwheels for Prevention® campaign, an initiative launched in 2008 by Prevent Child Abuse America to raise awareness and symbolize support for families.

Help the GFWC/NJSFWC Womanʼs Club of Westwood promote family wellness, positive parenting, and healthy child development by purchasing pinwheels and placing them outside for children to see throughout April. The pinwheel symbolizes a nurturing community and serves as a reminder that we all play a role in childrenʼs lives.

The club encourages local residents and businesses to participate in this effort and extends its gratitude to the Westwood Library, Westwood Recreation Center, and Modera Wealth Management for their support.

How to Participate:

• Three pinwheels are $5 and can be purchased in multiple increments.

• Pinwheels will be deliv-

ered to your doorstep. •Proceeds directly support child abuse prevention awareness efforts.

For more information about

the GFWC/NJSFWC Womanʼs Club of Westwood or to purchase pinwheels, visit westwoodwomansclub.org/events-1 or call 201916-1580.

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 activi-

ZION LUTHERAN ECC REGISTRATIONOPEN

Registration is open at Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center for the 2025–2026 school year. The Center is at 64 1st Ave.

Zion offers programs for children aged 2 1⁄ 2, 3, and 4.

Zion notes it is in a safe residential area away from main streets and traffic. “Within small classes lead by certified teachers, each student is viewed as a unique creation with special gifts and talents. Through a Christian-based curriculum, children learn of the

wonderful world God has created for them. They are encouraged to explore this world through a hands-on approach to learning. Responsibility, accountability, and respect are encouraged. Children learn how to properly interact with others in word and deed.”

For information call the school office between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Thursday, at 201-664-8060. You can also visit zionlutheranschool.org or follow on Facebook.

ties – 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

WESTWOOD

•

•

•

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 special 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.

‘Skip’ scholarship deadline April 30

The deadline to apply for a scholarship through the Skip Kelley Memorial Outing is April 30. The WCGO Scholarship Committee is offering three $2,000 scholarships to talented Westwood resident high school seniors, whether they attend Westwood High School or a private high school in the area.

Since 2007, the outingʼs proceeds have gone toward the WCGO Scholarship Fund, helping Westwoodʼs future leaders. Applications are available at the clerkʼs office at borough hall, the Community Center, and the borough website.

Students can also request an application by emailing westwoodcgo@gmail.com or asking their guidance counselor for a copy Completed applications must be received by the WCGO Scholarship Committee at 37

Goodwin Terrace, Westwood, NJ 07675 before the deadline.

The Skip Kelley Memorial Outing, formerly the Westwood Charity Golf Outing, is set for Thursday, Sept. 11 at Valley Brook Golf Course. Breakfast will be served at 7:30 a.m., followed by an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start. The event, run in a Scramble and Shotgun format, costs $720 per foursome or $180 per golfer.

Over the past 28 years, the outing has raised approximately $135,000 for charities.

RIVER VALE’S INTEGRATED PRESCHOOL FOR 2025-2026

The River Vale School District is excited to continue offering its Integrated Preschool Program for the 2025–2026 school year. Unlike traditional preschool programs, this model brings together special education and general education students, creating an inclusive and enriching learning environment.

Each class is led by a certified teacher with expertise in both general and special education, ensuring all students benefit from a supportive and engaging classroom experience.

The program is housed at Roberge School and runs five days a week, with two daily sessions. The morning session takes place from 8:55 to 11:25 a.m., while the afternoon session runs from 12:05 to 2:35 p.m.

Enrollment for special education students is determined through an evaluation process conducted by the districtʼs Department of Special Services. General education students, however, are selected through a lottery system, with a maximum of ten spots available. Due to the programʼs popularity, additional applicants will be placed on a waiting list in the order their names are drawn.

Tuition for the program is set at $4,000 and is payable in nonrefundable installments. To secure a

spot after the lottery, a $200 deposit is required, followed by two equal payments of $1,900 due on Aug. 1, 2025, and Feb. 2, 2026. It is important to note that transportation services are not available for general education students.

To be eligible, children must be at least three years old and younger than five years old by Oct. 1, 2025, and must be toilet-trained. Families of students admitted to the program will be required to provide a birth certificate, immunization records, proof of residency in River Vale, and documentation of a recent medical exam.

Families interested in applying can find applications and registration packets on the districtʼs website at rivervaleschools.com. The deadline for submission is April 8, 2025, at 4 p.m.. Parents will be notified via email about their childʼs selection no later than April 23, 2025. A confirmation email will be sent upon receipt of each application. If an applicant does not receive confirmation by April 10, 2025, they are encouraged to contact the Child Study Team Office to follow up.

For further information or any questions regarding the program, parents can call 201-3584011.

KELLEY

ERIC KOHLMEIER

RIVER VALEY

What first-time homeowners should know about fertilizing a lawn

Shortly after buying a home, many first-time homeowners recognize how challenging it can be to maintain a property. Many embrace that challenge and refashion their homes to reflect their personalities, interests and tastes.

First-time homeowners may direct the bulk of their attention to decorating the interiors of their homes upon moving in, but the work extends outside as well.

Tending to a lawn is a responsibility worth taking seriously, as the American Society of Landscape Architects reports a well-groomed landscape can increase resale value by anywhere from 15 to 20 percent. First-time homeowners may not be thinking about resale value, but itʼs never too early to prioritize lawn care, which should include routine fertilization. Fertilizing can ensure a lawn grows in lush, green and healthy, but first-

time homeowners may want to know a few things prior to taking a spreader for a spin for the first time.

• Identify what the lawn needs before purchasing fertilizer. No two lawns are the same, and thatʼs something to keep in mind when shopping for fertilizer. Even neighboring properties may have different soil needs, so itʼs imperative that homeowners identify any nutrient deficiencies prior to fertilizing.

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Quality Workmanship at Reasonable Rates Quality Workmanship at Reasonable Rates Quality Workmanship at Reasonable Rates Quality Workmanship at Rates

A simple, inexpensive soil test can reveal what a lawn needs, and such results can help homeowners pick the right fertilizer for their properties.

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• Get a handle on nitrogen needs. First-time homeowners will undoubtedly come across fertilizers promising to address nitrogen needs in a lawn, but itʼs important to avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen. Nitrogen is absorbed quickly, particularly when homeowners remember to water each day after fertilizing.

So itʼs easy to add too much nitrogen, which can lead to the development of thatch that ultimately blocks sunlight, nutrients

First-time homeowners may want to know a few things prior to taking a spreader for a spin for the first time.

and water, thus leading to weaker roots and a lawn that looks nothing like the lush, green carpet homeowners are aiming for Homeowners concerned about overdoing it with nitrogen

can utilize a slow-release fertilizer that gives the lawn time to absorb nutrients and break them down.

• Apply evenly. Even application is an important component of successful fertilizing. Many find it easier to apply fertilizer evenly when using a spreader with a granule fertilization product. Spray fertilizers can work as well, but first-timers may find it difficult to apply products evenly when spraying. When using a spreader, read fertilizing packaging instructions carefully to ensure the spreader is on the right setting when starting. If the setting is not correct, you may end up spreading too much or too little fertilizer.

• Fertilize more than once. The lawn care experts at Lawn Doctor note that strategic applications across the seasons will increase the chances a lawn comes in lush and green.

Fertilizing more than once between spring and fall is a necessity no matter which type of grass is in the yard, but the timing may vary depending on grass type and local climate. Consult with a local lawn care professional to determine when and how often to fertilize.

Fertilizing a lawn can produce a home exterior homeowners can be proud of, even if they have little or no experience with lawn maintenance.

SUNDIALGARDENERS HOST JANET SCHULZ

The Sundial Garden Club invites the public to a presentation, “A Collectorʼs Point of View” by Janet Schulz on Monday, April 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hillsdale Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave.

Schulz, a well-known Master Gardener in the Northern New Jersey gardening community, has been involved with horticulture for many years. She worked in the garden industry for 40 years, including as a wholesale manager of a local garden center. She was a featured garden commentator on Home Time Cable TV, former President of the Wyckoff Area Garden Club, and served as District 1 Director of the New Jersey Garden Club. She is also a former editor of The Potting Shed (Bergen County master gardener newsletter). Her credits also include being featured in the New

SCHULZ

York Times New Jersey section. She has continued for the past several years to serve as Garden Conservancy Ambassador. Her garden continues to be featured in the Garden Conservancy Open Days Program.

Schulzʼgarden is primarily a shade-loving one, including ferns and hosta. She loves to collect plants and this presentation will feature the rare and unusual as well as some old favorites. She will answer the question “how do they really look and perform in our gardens.” The club welcomes all area gardeners and would-be garden enthusiasts.

REAL ESTATE PASCACK VALLEY

Game Day is Growing—Come Play!

Community gatherings in River Vale seem to be blooming faster than the daffodils we anticipate with the first signs of spring. One of the fastest-growing free activities in town is Game Day, held Mondays from noon to 3 p.m. at the River Vale Community Center.

The idea took root in November 2023, when a group of six Mahjongg players asked if they could use the community center on Monday afternoons. At first, they played either one four-person

Habitat:

FROM PAGE 4

that Thomas is a seasoned executive leader known for her strategic planning, results-driven management, and technical expertise in delivering impactful solutions. “With more than 20 years of senior management experience, she has led organizational growth, program expansion, and strategic development across various sectors.”

Habitat Bergen says that, most recently, Thomas led programming for a 46-year-old nonprofit focused on non-traditional construction employment and pre-apprenticeship training opportunities. “Her expertise in project management, process

game or two three-player games across two tables. But with the community center offering ample space, the mahjongg players suggested opening the doors to more game enthusiasts.

“Canasta, bridge, Scrabble, chess—anyone can come play— just bring your board and enough friends to play with you,” said Susan Melnicki, one of the mahjongg players. “Itʼs very convenient to play here—comfortable, no stairs, parking is close to the entrance, the restrooms are

optimization, data management, and technology integration aligns seamlessly with Habitat Bergenʼs current and future operational needs.”

According to board president Jonathan Senos in a statement shared with Pascack Press, “We are excited to welcome Katrice to Habitat Bergen. Our Board of Directors believes she will be a transformative leader for our organization, our staff, volunteers, donors, homeowners, and the communities we serve in Bergen County.”

Thomas holds a BA in psychology with a minor in anthropology from Long Island University and has completed various professional studies earning certificates relevant to her leadership roles. A Hudson County resident, she is passionate about connecting communities to

nearby and clean, and the center is well-lit.”

Growing Interest and Building Connections

At first, Game Day grew slowly—finding enough people who enjoy the same game, share a similar skill level, and are available at the same time can be a challenge. But River Vale stayed committed, keeping the space open each Monday. Now, more and more people are attending.

“I look forward to playing

resources and working to reduce generational poverty and systemic inequity.

About Habitat Bergen

Since 1994, Habitat Bergen has built and rehabilitated simple, decent, and affordable homes by leveraging volunteer labor, donated funds, and materials to provide strength, self-reliance, and shelter for hardworking families.

Additionally, its ReStore, the nearest at 121 Carver Ave., sells new and gently used donated furniture, household goods, and building materials to the public at a fraction of retail prices. All net proceeds support home construction projects. For more information, visit habitatbergen.org.

mahjongg at the senior center on Mondays. Always happy when new people join us,” said Lorraine Buldo, a regular player.

We now have weekly groups playing mahjongg, canasta, and pinochle, while other games are still gaining traction. Bridge, Scrabble, and chess players have popped in, but not always at the same time as others who want to play. To help with this, we are setting up a monthly drop-in schedule:

•First Monday of the month

– Bridge

• Second Monday of the month – Scrabble

•Third Monday of the month

– Chess

• Last Monday of the month – Novice Mahjongg Meanwhile, mahjongg (advanced), canasta, and pinochle players continue to meet every Monday.

PARK RIDGE

Register for Lunch With the Bunny

The Easter Bunny is arriving early this year! Join him for Lunch with the Bunny at the Park Ridge Elks Lodge on Saturday, April 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Enjoy a delicious lunch of chicken fingers, fries, and ice cream, plus music, crafts, and photo opportunities with the Bunny. The cost is $10 per child (under 10) and $15 for ages 10 and up.

This event, hosted by the Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club and Park Ridge Elks Lodge #2234, benefits local charities. Pre-registration is required by March 28. Send your name, contact info, number of tickets, and payment (cash or check payable to GPVWC) to: GPVWC Bunny, PO Box 3, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. For more information, call 201-822-1397 or email gpvwc1990@gmail.com.

Mahjongg Lessons in Demand

There has also been a surge in interest for mahjongg lessons. However, learning the game requires multiple sessions—itʼs not something you pick up in one afternoon. Trainer Lyn Gruber is willing to teach new players, but we need to assemble a group that can commit to regular sessions. If youʼre interested, please email social & cultural affairs to join a potential class.

Come Play With Us!

The town is thrilled to see Game Day growing and hopes even more residents will come by weekly, monthly, or just on a rainy day or a day off from work. This free offering is really creating some great connections in our community. And isnʼt it great to just connect the “analog” way sometimes?

The River Vale Senior & Community Center is at 628 Rivervale Road. Game Day is every Monday from noon to 3 p.m., except on days when the center is used for voting or summer camp.

For questions about Game Day, to join a game contact list, or to sign up for mahjongg or chess lessons, email culturalaffairs2@rivervalenj.org.

— Via Amy Salib, River Valeʼs director of Social & Cultural Affairs, and manager of the townʼs FarmersʼMarket

EMERSON

County clerk’s office in town

March 26

The Bergen County Clerkʼs Satellite Office will accept passport applications, swearing-in notaries, and creating free photo cards for seniors, veterans, and exempt firefighters from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26 at the Emerson Senior Center, 20 Palisade Ave. These services are open to all Bergen County residents and no appointment is necessary. For more information, call 201-336-7057 or email gdesantis@bergencountynj.gov.

RIVER VALE

Factory:

FROM PAGE 4

were making a quality product and business was booming. The company expanded, enlarging the mill buildings and buying up additional land with an abundance of the black walnut, maple, and birch trees used to make the chairs. Local people found jobs felling trees, driving wagons, and working in the mills. At its peak, about 100 men were employed in different departments. This was a large percentage of the population at the time, when only a couple hundred people lived in Old Tappan and River Vale combined. In this remote corner of Ber-

REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS

gen County, where jobs outside farming were scarce, the factory was an important source of work. There were female employees, too, who worked at home weaving chair seats and backs using the reeds that grew along the Hackensack Riverʼs marshland.

The firm kept an office and shipping warehouse on Canal Street in New York City. The chairs were taken by wagon to Closter, where they were shipped via the Northern Railroad as far south as Jersey City. From there, a ferry took the cargo to New York. Later the Collignons began shipping on the Pascack Valley line out of Westwood, which opened in 1870. For better access to the rail line, they laid out the portion of Westwood Avenue between Rivervale Road

and Cedar Lane.

In the 1870s the Collignons? business took a big hit. The market changed due to a new English law requiring that any furnishings used on British ships be manufactured in England. This resulted in a loss of business from a number of big accounts. Business steadily declined until the company was forced into foreclosure in 1895.

An agent of the Hackensack Water Company, which was acquiring land along the river for watershed purposes, bought the property and leased it to Thomas Post, a nearby River Vale resident who had been an employee of the Collignon firm since boy hood. Post continued to manufacture steamer chairs for a few years.

On the night of Jan. 10, 1904

Open kindergarten registration for

The Hillsdale Public School District has announced that registration is now open for the 20252026 kindergarten program. Any resident child who will turn 5 years old on or before Oct. 1, 2025, is eligible to enroll.

Children living on the east side of Magnolia Avenue (evennumbered houses) between Lincoln Avenue and Lawrence Street will attend Meadowbrook School. Those residing on the west side of Magnolia Avenue (odd-numbered houses) within the same range will

attend Ann Blanche Smith School.

The district employs an online pre-registration system for incoming kindergarten students. Forms and instructions are available at hillsdaleschools.com. Parents should navigate to the Resources tab, select Parent Resources, and then click Registration. Be sure to register for the 2025–2026 school year and select grade 00 for kindergarten.

Once the online forms are completed, school personnel will contact families to schedule an in-

2025–’26

person registration conference.

A kindergarten orientation will be held at both Ann Blanche Smith School and Meadowbrook School in the spring. Principals will provide additional details after the registration process concludes.

Residents are encouraged to share this information with any neighbors or friends who have kindergarten-eligible children.

For questions or further assistance, contact the Hillsdale Public School District office.

the main buildings, materials, and machinery were destroyed in a rather suspicious fire. A smaller blaze had broken out one day earlier and partially burned the mill. The second fire leveled the place. No work had been done in the factory for two weeks prior, leading some to conclude that the fires had been set intentionally.

Today the only remnant of the factory complex is the 1864 Claudius Collignon House, which

is still standing opposite Stone Point Park on Westwood Avenue in Old Tappan. Visit the Pascack Historical Societyʼs museum any Sunday afternoon from 1–4 to see a number of Collignon chairs that are now on exhibit, as well as some other mementos of the Collignon family.

As always, museum admission is free. The museum is at 19 Ridge Ave. in Park Ridge.

FROM PAGE 1 stated.

•New K-12 Supervisor positions will oversee STEM, humanities, visual/performing arts, health/PE, and athletics.

McQueeney noted that the restructuring is a strategic shift, not a response to performance concerns. “This plan is designed to enhance efficiency, support teaching and learning, and ensure safe school operations,” he said.

No Cuts to Instructional Jobs

The budget does not eliminate teaching positions, although no new instructional hires are

planned for next year. Instead, the district will reinstate eight content-specific teacher coordinator stipends to increase teacher input in curriculum planning.

“We believe the best way to support students is by strengthening direct classroom resources,” McQueeney said. “Over time, we need to invest more in instructional leaders, literacy specialists, and coaching rather than additional administration.”

Next Steps and Community Feedback

Personnel recommendations will be made at the May Board of Education meeting. The public

can provide input before the April 24 final budget hearing.

Meanwhile, The Westwood Regional School District saw a 6% state aid increase, or $239,408 over last year, raising its annual state aid to $4,229,549. (See “State school aid up some 6% for most PV districts” by Michael Olohan in the March 17 Pascack Press.) For more information, visit wwrsd.org.

Recognitions at meeting

Also March 18, the school board honored outstanding students and staff for their academic achievements, service, and excellence in education.

The Bergen County Unsung Hero Award, which recognizes students for their extraordinary kindness, compassion, and dedication to their school and communi-

Raucous Dueling Pianos Night April 12

The Montvale Volunteer Fire Department is amped for its Second Annual Dueling Piano Night. Youʼre invites you to join the fun. Presented by Shake, Rattle and Roll, the event is Saturday, April 12 at fire headquarters, 35 W. Grand Ave. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner is at 6, and the threehour show starts at 7.

The event, equal parts concert, comedy and cabaret, is an all-request evening. The performers play catchy tunes, singable tracks, and raucous sing-alongs. Included in your ticket price is a hot buffet, beer, wine, soda, assorted desserts and coffee. Tickets are $75 if purchased before the event or $90 at the door. Email MontvaleFD100@gmail.com or call Mike Sant Anna at 201-8198556 to reserve tables of 8-10.

Shake, rattle, and roll! The Montvale Volunteer Fire Department is amped for its Second Annual Dueling Piano Night, Saturday, April 12.

Valley Chabad’s Friendship Circle. To par ticipate, volunteer, or support the program, email Estie Orenstein at estie@valleychabad.org. Photo credit: Valley Chabad.

Making the shot — together

Valley Chabadʼs Friendship Circle launched its 2025 spring sports league for children and teens with special needs on Sunday, March 16 at Kulture Gym in Ho-Ho-Kus Now in its 18th year, the program provides a full range of basketball and recreational activities in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Participants have the opportunity to practice sports techniques, dribble, shoot, and score as part of a team.

Guiding them are volunteer coaches Joe Jackson and his son,

“Johnny Buckets” Jackson— Ridgewood High Schoolʼs alltime scoring leader and a recent cancer survivor. They lead a team of teen volunteers who help their special friends develop skills, build confidence, and experience the joy of teamwork in a safe, non-competitive setting.

The league will continue each Sunday through April 6 at Kulture Gym.

Friendship Circle, run by Valley Chabad in Woodcliff Lake, pairs teenage volunteers

ty, was awarded to Mary Affinito, a twelfth-grade student at Westwood Regional High School.

“Maryʼs contributions to the high school community have been exceptional, and we are proud to recognize her for her dedication and positive impact,” the resolution read.

The district also recognized the top academic achievers of this yearʼs graduating class. Aaron Zeiler was named valedictorian, earning the highest cumulative grade point average, while Beatrice Mitchell was honored as Salutatorian for achieving the second-highest GPA.

The board recognized Westwood Regional Middle School counselor Caitlin Fabrocini, who was named Bergen County School Counselor of the Year by the New Jersey School Counselors Associ-

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

OLGC’s Casino Night

April 5

Our Lady of Good Counsel Church is bringing the excitement of Atlantic City to town with its Casino Night, set for Saturday, April 5 from 5:45 to 10 p.m.

Guests can enjoy a variety of classic casino games, including blackjack, craps, Texas holdʼem, Let It Ride, and roulette. For those who prefer non-gambling fun, other games of chance will run throughout the evening.

Admission is $60 for playing guests, which includes $50 in play money. Non-playing guests can attend for $30, which includes 15 Tricky Tray tickets. A sandwich buffet, soda, coffee, and desserts are included. Tickets are available for purchase at the OLGC Rectory (664 Ridgewood Road) Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For reservations or more information, call the Rectory at (201) 664-6624.

WESTWOOD

with children and teens with special needs, fostering friendships and offering support to families.

Open to the all regardless of affiliation, the program enriches all involved—giving teens the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a childʼs life while pro viding parents with much-needed respite.

To participate, volunteer, or otherwise support the program, email Estie Orenstein at estie@valleychabad.org.

— Via Valley Chabad

ation. Fabrocini was honored for her leadership, school counseling innovations, and contributions to student achievement.

A significant number of students were awarded the Seal of Biliteracy, which recognizes high school seniors who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one additional language. The achievement reflects the districtʼs commitment to multilingual education and the benefits of bilingualism for studentsʼ cognitive and professional development.

Students were honored for their proficiency in French, German, Italian, Russian, and Spanish. Notably, Aaron Zeiler, the Class of 2025 valedictorian, was also among those who earned this distinction.

Staff report

WESTWOOD

Ladies, try for this $1,000 scholarship

The Womanʼs Club of Westwood is offering a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating high school senior who resides in Westwood or Washington Township, regardless of which high school they attend.

The scholarship is open to female students who plan to pursue further education or career training in the fall. Applicants will be evaluated based on community service, volunteerism, citizenship, and academic achievements.

To apply, students must complete the application and submit it by May 10 to: Womanʼs Club of Westwood Attn: Scholarship Committee, 205 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675.

Applications are available in all high school guidance offices or can be requested via email at westwoodwomansclub@ gmail.com.

2025 town budget review Tuesday, March 25

There will be a special meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Westwood on Tuesday, March 25 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Caucus Room at 101 Washington Ave. The purpose for this meeting is to review the 2025 budget. Council reserves the right to go into closed session.

—Via Michael Sant Anna, Montvale FD

Kindergarten registration

The Hillsdale Public School District has announced that registration is now open for the 2025–2026 kindergarten program. Any resident child who will turn 5 years old on or before Oct. 1, 2025, is eligible to enroll.

Children living on the east side of Magnolia Avenue (even-numbered houses) between Lincoln Avenue and Lawrence Street will attend Meadowbrook School. Those residing on the west side of Magnolia Avenue (odd-numbered houses) within the same range will attend Ann Blanche Smith School.

The district employs an online pre-registration system for incoming kindergarten students. Forms and instructions are available at hillsdaleschools.com. Parents should

navigate to the Resources tab, select Parent Resources, and then click Registration. Be sure to register for the 2025–2026 school year and select grade 00 for kindergarten.

Once the online forms are completed, school personnel will contact families to schedule an in-person registration conference. A kindergarten orientation will be held at both Ann Blanche Smith School and Meadowbrook School in the spring. Principals will provide additional details after the registration process concludes.

Residents are encouraged to share this information with any neighbors or friends who have kindergarten-eligible children.

For questions or further assistance, contact the Hillsdale Public School District office.

Boosting community health: Red Cross offers free A1C testing for blood donors in March

The American Red Cross New Jersey Region is helping to bridge access to health care for blood donors by providing free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for diabetes and prediabetes, on all successful blood, platelet and plasma donations in March.

One-third of people lack access to regular primary care in the U.S., where diabetes affects 1 in 10 people and nearly a quarter of those living with it have been undiagnosed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The free A1C screening aims to help address this

gap by empowering blood donors with valuable information to maintain their health and well-being.

This new offering is among the longtime work of the Red Cross to support the health of communities, which also includes disaster relief efforts such as basic disaster health and mental health services among other assistance.

Visit RedCrossBlood.org, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS to book a time to give in March and learn more about your health. Additionally, all who come to give blood, platelets or plasma March 1-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com

DIRECTORY DIRECTORY

Gift Card by email. See redcrossblood.org/March for details about both offers.

You can also make a financial donation at redcross.org/GivingDay on March 26 to support people with disaster services such as emergency shelter, food, relief supplies, basic health care, emotional support and financial assistance. Both efforts are part of its Red Cross Month activities in March.

Supporting the health of communities has long been part of the American Red Cross and traces its roots to its founder, Clara Barton. A lifelong humanitarian and pioneer in the nursing field, Barton first led the organization to deliver relief and care after disasters more than 140 years ago.

BRIDGING HEALTH CARE ACCESS THROUGH A1C SCREENING

According to the CDC, some 90% of people living with diabetes in the U.S. have type 2, a largely preventable and often reversible insulin-resistant condition that can cause dangerously high blood sugar levels. Left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health complications, such as kidney failure, stroke and heart issues.

"Type 2 diabetes develops

over years and may not cause obvious symptoms until serious damage has been done," said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, medical director for the Red Cross. "By understanding our own health, we can create a foundation to help prevent chronic illness, improve the quality of day-to-day living and save lives. Blood donation can now be part of that journey."

The Red Cross will begin the month-long A1C screening for successful donations starting on March 1. Donors can expect to receive the results of their test within one to two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or online donor portal, and they are encouraged to consult their health care provider if their A1C level is elevated. A1C is the latest health insight that the Red Cross provides to blood, platelet and plasma donors, who can already access ongoing donation information such as pulse, blood pressure, body temperature and hemoglobin levels.

DELIVERING CARE AMID INTENSIFYING DISASTERS

As part of disaster relief efforts, disaster health and mental health services are as important as ever in the face of intensifying extreme weather across the country. The Red Cross is responding

to nearly twice as many major disasters than it did a decade ago across the country — on top of everyday crises like home fires, severe storms, and flooding in New Jersey. After disasters of all sizes, the Red Cross also provides emergency lodging, food and financial assistance.

Red Cross health and mental health support may include replacing lost prescription medications and medical equipment, helping people in its shelters cope with chronic illnesses aggravated by the disaster, and providing emotional support and referrals to community health and mental health professionals for additional care.

So far this year, the Red Cross has helped people affected by large disasters such as the record-breaking wildfires in California and floods in Kentucky. Red Cross volunteers from New Jersey deployed to help with these large disaster response operations. These disasters came on the heels of 2024 having the second-highest number of billion-dollar disasters in a single year, due to major events like hurricanes, floods and tornadoes, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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Catch BCP’s romp ‘Things My Mother Taught Me’

Love, laughter, and a few moving boxes set the stage for Things My Mother Taught Me, a charming, engaging comedy by Katherine DiSavino, presented by Bergen County Players, one of Americaʼs longest-running little theater companies.

The show opens Saturday,

March 15, and runs through Saturday, April 5, at the Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell. Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Tickets cost $28 on Fridays and Saturdays and $26 on Sundays. They can be purchased online at www.bcplayers.org, by calling

kids, thereʼs a certain window where they sit and listen, and then they need more engagement. MacKenzie knew exactly how to shift gears and get them involved.”

201-261-4200, or in person at the box office at 298 Kinderkamack Road during regular box office hours.

Directed by Terri Caust of Glen Rock, Things My Mother Taught Me explores the joys and stresses of a young couple moving in together for the first time, leading to inevitable mishaps and the “endearing” advice that only moms and dads can provide. Olivia and Gabe drive halfway across the country to begin their new life in Chicago. Excited but naive, they believe they are prepared for this adventure—until an oversized chair and the sudden arrival of both sets of “helpful” parents throw their best-laid plans into disarray. What follows is a series of mishaps, misunderstandings, and plans gone awry, all wrapped in heartfelt moments among an extended family that truly cares.

If youʼve ever wondered, “Am I doomed to become my

mom or dad?” Things My Mother Taught Me replies with a resounding—and comical—“yes!”

The production features a talented ensemble cast. (www.bcplayers.org.)

“ʻThingsʼis a sweet love story and a look back to our parentsʼlove for us,” said Caust. “Itʼs a reminder that life is messy and crazy, but full of love if we want it

to be.”

She added, “So many plays and movies center on dysfunctional families. By contrast, Things My Mother Taught Me is a love letter to our mothers and our fathers. Audiences can expect to laugh a lot.”

Photos by Richard Frant of FrantVisuals LLC

FROM PAGE 1

tradition of hosting notable authors for Read Across America.

The visit was part of grand festivities throughout the younger grades, and included participation by Westwood superheroes from the police department, governing body, library, ambulance corps, and school administration.

At district schools in the Township of Washington, New York Jets player Tony Adams read to fifth grade students and answered questions about his life and career. (He also took the time to visit students at recess to throw a football and sign

Cadenhead, born and raised in New York City, has a BA in English from Haverford College and an MFA in dramaturgy from Brooklyn College. The former Marvel Comics editor has authored Marvel Super Hero Adventures, Dogpool, Doom Academy, and Marvel Mutts, among others. Her visit fit seamlessly with the schoolsʼsuperhero-themed week, which celebrated a variety of childrenʼs authors beyond the eventʼs traditional focus on Dr Seuss.

Bringing Stories to Life: A Peek Inside the Creative Process

Anyone can be a Spider-Person. Westwood schools photos.

autographs.) The Bergen County Sheriffʼs Department visited Washington School, reading to tots; K9 police dog Jet toured the school, making friends.

Eliason praised Cadenheadʼs ability to captivate students across all age levels: “With the younger

During her interactive sessions, Cadenhead didnʼt just talk about writing—she invited students to step into the role of creators.

•For younger students (K-2), she introduced Spider-Man and Squirrel Girl, guiding them through the art of visual storytelling.

“I asked the kids to be my art directors and tell me what images theyʼd like to see alongside the words,” Cadenhead explained. “Some of their ideas were so spot-on that they mirrored what our actual art director did. Others took things in brand-new, unexpected directions!”

•For older students (grades 3–5), she broke down the stages of book production—from concept to text development, early sketches, editing, and final artwork.

“One of the coolest moments was when the students dipped their toes into visual storytelling without realizing it,” she said. “They were all over dramatic irony—suggesting pictures where the reader would know something the characters didnʼt. Thatʼs next-level thinking.”

•Fifth graders were given a special treat—a lunch discussion with the author, where they asked questions about writing, comics, and the creative process.

“Their curiosity was incredible,” Cadenhead recalled. “We talked about everything from world-building to character development. It was a great reminder of why I love writing for this age group—kids at this stage have such big, imaginative brains!”

For the uninitiated, Squirrel Girl, aka Doreen Green, is one of Marvelʼs most delightfully unconventional superheroes. First appearing in 1991, she was created by writer Will Murray and legendary artist Steve Ditko as a lighthearted contrast to the darker, more serious

stories of the time. Equipped with squirrel powers—enhanced agility, retractable claws, and the unique ability to communicate with squirrels—she has taken down some of Marvelʼs most notorious villains— including Doctor Doom and Thanos.

Spider-Manʼs costume is one of the most universally recognizable and relatable designs in comic book history. Unlike heroes whose faces are visible, Peter Parkerʼs (and other Spidey variantsʼ—donʼt get us started) full-body suit allows anyone, anywhere, to imagine themselves behind the mask. As Stan Lee once

put it, “Anybody reading Spider-Man in any part of the world can imagine that they themselves are under the costume. And thatʼs a good thing.”

The red and blue suit, first designed by Steve Ditko, captures both the mystery and accessibility of the character. That relatability, combined with Spider-Manʼs very human struggles—balancing school, family, and heroism—has made him a favorite across generations.

A Week of Storytelling Cadenhead was one of many special guests during Read Across America Week, a nationwide celebration of literacy that has evolved beyond Dr. Seuss to highlight a broader range of childrenʼs authors.

•Westwood police officers read books such as Donʼt Bring a Dinosaur to Recess, sparking laughter and lively discussions. Chief Michael Pontillo said officers were grateful for “the amazing opportuni-

ty to participate.”

•Borough officials, including council president Rob Biccochi, and councilwomen Beth Dell, Cheryl Hodges, and Lauren Letizia, visited classrooms to share favorite books with students.

•EMTs and school administrators also participated, demonstrating that reading is a lifelong skill embraced by all professions.

“I always tell the kids—the more you read, the smarter you get,” Eliason said. “Being a lifelong learner starts with a love of books, and events like these remind students just how fun reading can be.”

A First Visit to Westwood

Although Cadenhead has visited schools and libraries for over a decade, this was her first time presenting in New Jersey. “I had the best experience at both schools,” she told us. “The kids were engaged, the staff was welcoming, and I was so impressed by how deeply the students thought about storytelling.”

She gave a special shout-out to Ms. Eliason, the PTOs, and principals Kelly Hughes (Brookside) and Fiorello (Berkeley) for making the visit possible.

“And can I just say—the lunches were delicious! Huge thanks to Salad House for keeping me fueled up for all these amazing conversations!” she added with a laugh.

Before wrapping up her visit, Cadenhead autographed books and encouraged students to keep writing, drawing, and exploring their imaginations. “So many kids dream of writing books or comics,” she said. “My best advice? Write all the time. Donʼt aim for perfection— aim for progress. And donʼt be afraid of feedback; it will only make you better.”

For much more about MacKenzie Cadenhead and her YA and middle grade books, chapter books, school bookings, and extras, visit mackenziecadenhead.com.

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