PASCACK PRESS 3.3.25

‘FEARLESS FIVE’ STUN IN SCIENCE BOWLRUN

Fieldstone Middle School lets reigning champs off the hook at NJ regionals — but sends a message

BY CRISTINA BONTIA AND PRAMOD GEORGE

SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

A team of five young science whizzes from Fieldstone Middle School on Feb. 21 etched their names into local history with an astonishing run to the finals of the National Science Bowl (NSB) New Jersey Regional competition.

In their debut appearance at the prestigious event, hosted by the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, the underdog squad—comprised of four eighth-graders and

See FIVE on page 24

BC JAMBOREE TIPS AWAY BC JAMBOREE TIPS AWAY

Bergen Catholic ekes win over St. Joeʼs

Left: BC Crusaders No 13 Declan Wucherpfennig blocks St. Joseph Regional F. No. 13 Anthony Pacciarelli’s layup; Right: Cardinals G No. 2 Joe Cerritelli comes down with one of his 10 BC Invitational rebounds. Paul R. Sullivan — PaulSullivan4Photography.com

BY PAUL R. SULLIVAN SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

IT WASATOUGH weekend for Pascack Valley sports teams. St. Joseph Regional came up just short in the Bergen County Jamboree final, falling to Oradellʼs Bergen Catholic,

53-50. Westwood also suffered a heartbreaking loss, dropping a 53-50 overtime battle to St. Mary (Rutherford) Gaels. Meanwhile, Pascack Valleyʼs bowling team reached the North 1, Group 2 state final but couldnʼt knock down the title. Of the three, the Green KnightsʼJamboree show-

DERBY DARING

Park Ridge Troop 80 celebrates its 100th year of Scouting in part by powering into first place at the 3 Rivers District Klondike Derby. Pierce Rehak reports.

down was the biggest stage, delivering a thrilling back-andforth contest that went down to the final possession.

Bergen Catholic Wins 12th Jamboree Title, Edging St. Joeʼs in Thriller

Continued on page 34

FAMILY PROMISE WEIGHS OPTIONS AFTERSITE

New life for 436 Old Hook snubbed; nonprofit provides temporary housing for working parents facing homelessness

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Family Promise of Bergen County has time to appeal the Borough of Emersonʼs decision to reject its proposal to open The Family Promise Center, which aimed to provide temporary housing for working parents with children facing homelessness.

During a hearing on Feb. 20, the Emerson Municipal Land Use Board voted against the nonprofitʼs plans to renovate a commercial property at 436 Old Hook Road to serve as a permanent location for its headquarters and programs.

Family Promise said it is raising funds foor the move, to provide temporary housing for up to eight families, along with comprehensive support services and eviction prevention programming.

See SITE on page 30

Saturday, March 4, 1870 was a red-letter day for Hillsdale. The first train on the new railroad pulled into town, onlookers shouting their welcome. Kristin Beuscher has the story. PAGE 4

Emerson follows Dan O’Brien’s lead and aids a stricken TN town.

EMERSON

Memorial Field project costs

To the editor:

HYIS HILLSDALE considering a complete remake of Memorial Field? Why is the town proposing to spend the most money it has ever spent on a nonschool project on one field? In several town hall meetings, these questions have not been answered. I have attended nearly all meetings related to this proposal over the past several months and the response from the residents has

PASCACK PRESS

been overwhelmingly against the project. Many reasons have been p rovided including concerns about putting a carnival like park with lights and 90 parking spaces in the middle of a residential neighborhood and all that comes with that – traffic, safety issues etc. Concerns about artificial turf and the cost of the project have also been raised.

The few who have spoken in favor of the project seem to want it “for the kids” but if it was truly for the kids, there would be more concern over the negative effects of artificial turf and we wouldnʼt spend all that money on one field when the town has many fields that need significant investment.

Even at half the cost, the benefit to the community would be limited due to the significant decline in sports enrollment compared to 15 years ago and the fact that most kids in town use fields other than Memorial.

That brings me to the cost of the project. At a town hall meeting earlier this month, the bor-

ough administrator finally went through the details of the cost. The original estimate provided to the residents back in December was around $6 million. At this recent meeting, the borough administrator said the cost would be $7 million to $8 million. Councilman Ruocco said he believed the cost, when including contingencies and other items, would exceed $9 million. Thatʼs a dramatic increase over what was floated as recently as two months ago. Does anyone know the true cost of this project? Does our council understand this confusion erodes trust with the residents? Does this make any sense?

Everyone on the town council runs for office as a fiscal conservative. They all say they will be good stewards of our tax dollars. There arenʼt many times they get to prove it, but this is one of those times.

Gabe Lengua Hillsdale

plan in the Redevelopment Zone. The Planning Board would make the final decision on the plan, notes administrator Michael Ghassali. The developer, Piermont Avenue Urban Renewal, has not yet submitted an application.

Call for increased funding on affordable housing

To the editor:

I N HIS 2025 Budget Address, Gov. Phil Murphy noted the “skyrocketing cost of housing” as a key issue impacting familiesʼ budgets. In response, Fair Share Housing Center issued the following statement from managing director of external affairs, AlTariq Witcher:

“We applaud Governor Murphyʼs focus on addressing New Jerseyʼs housing crisis, on the heels of landmark legislation enacted last year to streamline and strengthen enforcement of the Mount Laurel Doctrine. The shortage of affordable housing in New Jersey hurts everyone, especially low-income families and people of color. While the stateʼs new affordable housing law is a major step forward, much more needs to be done.

“We look forward to seeing more details of the budget proposal and call on the Governor and Legislature to make necessary investments — especially increasing funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and provid-

Hanlon ‘Forever a Cardinal’ in student’s star short

Filmmaker Emma Lagatol of Westwood will showcase her latest documentary, Forever a Cardinal, at the prestigious Garden State Film Festival (GSFF) this spring. The film, which celebrates the enduring community spirit of longtime Westwood resident Roberta Hanlon, will screen at Asbury Lanes in Asbury Park on Saturday, March 29, from 9:30 to 11:45 a.m.

Lagatol was the sole student from Bergen County nominated in the Garden State Film Festivalʼs Hometown Documentary Short category.

Her film, says GSFF, “shines a spotlight on Hanlonʼs deep-rooted dedication to her hometown—a commitment reflected in decades of volunteerism, mentorship, and advocacy for the boroughʼs youth and civic initiatives. The film offers a compelling portrait of a woman who, much like the cardinal bird representing Westwoodʼs high school mascot, remains everpresent, resilient, and proud of her community.”

GSFF Executive Director Lauren Concar Sheehy said in a statement shared with Pascack Press, “We are extremely proud to present Forever a Cardinal and hope the community will come out to cheer on our hometown heroes who have poured so much time and talent into these productions.”

Lagatol, Dylan Torrento, and Hayden Bernsteinʼs documentary Generations Of Homemade Happiness , on Conradʼs Confectionary, was chosen to be screened at the GSFF on March 23, 2024.

Now in its 23rd year, the GSFF is New Jerseyʼs premier independent film event, running from March 27–30 in Asbury Park and Cranford. The festival will present 205 films from more than 14 countries, including documentaries, comedies, thrillers, student films, and “Home-Grown” productions shot in New Jersey.

Concar Sheehy said, “This event is a testament to New Jerseyʼs film-friendly environment, which is attracting record numbers of productions thanks to the efforts of the NJ Motion Picture & Television Commission and Governor Murphyʼs competitive financial incentives.”

Beyond screenings, the GSFF offers a dynamic program of professional panels, networking events, and special honors. This yearʼs lineup includes the panel discussion Setting the Stage: New Jerseyʼs Path from the Birthplace of Film to Global Production Hub on Saturday, March 29, along with workshops on emerging industry trends.

The festival also remains committed to accessibility, with films available with subtitles for the hearing impaired and its Cinema for the Ears series for visually impaired audiences.

The weekend kicks off with a red-carpet gala on Friday, March 27, featuring industry professionals and a screening of the feature

most recently chairing the negotiations committee and serving on the finance and facilities commitee.

She said at her final meeting, late 2022, after declining to run for re-election, “This is a job that not everyone is going to like everything we have to say.” She noted members step up “to do whatʼs right and whatʼs best for all.”

She has been involved in Westwood since the 1970s, including a stint on the Borough Council.

“I appreciate all the work of everybody Iʼve worked with. I wish the district well. Thereʼs a lot more work to be done, and Iʼm not going away,” Hanlon said at the time. She added sheʼs a resident “who has been involved and will be involved.”

focused on the well being of our children and to the importance of education.”

Mountain said, “I have known Roberta for over 20 years and her commitment to children has been evident in every one of those years. In addition to her years as a WWRSD Board of Education trustee she has been o n parent committees at our schools, volunteered at teen events at the community center, been a Boy Scout leader and though her sons are grown now she is on a committee that a pproves Eagle projects and Eagle rank.”

drama Ballad of a Hustler

On Sunday, March 30, the GSFF concludes with its annual Awards Dinner, where filmmaker Fatou Faye will receive recognition for Fragments of Solace, this yearʼs winning feature-length screenplay.

“Thereʼs something for everyone at the Garden State Film Festival,” said founder Diane Raver. “It only happens once a

year, and we donʼt want you to miss it.”

Tickets range from singleevent passes to the all-access Parkway Pass for $105, which covers screenings, workshops, and the Meet the Filmmakers event. Visit gsff.org for full details.

Hanlon, a beloved Westwood crossing guard, served on the Westwood Regional School District board nearly 19 years,

Prior to that, she received an endorsement from colleague Carol Mountain, who told us in a letter to the editor that Hanlon “is a lifelong citizen of Westwood who clearly has been dedicated to her community. She is especially

Mountain served with Roberta on school committees starting in the 1990s. “We were also often the only people who regularly attended BOE meetings for many, many years. I served with her on the BOE for about 10 years. She has always been committed to serving the school community.”

Filmmaker Emma Lagatol of Westwood showcases her latest documentary, Forever a Cardinal, at the prestigious Garden State Film Festival (GSFF) this spring. The film celebrates the enduring community spirit of longtime Westwood

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, retiring Archbishop of Washington, D.C., and the first and only African American cardinal, speaks about the significance of Black History Month during his homily at the Archdiocese of Newark's Black History Month Jubilee Mass on Feb. 16 at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark.

Photo by Archdiocese of Newark/Julio Eduardo Herrera.

Historic Black History Month Mass

Newarkʼs Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart hosted a historic and uplifting Black History Month Mass on Feb. 16, with Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, the first and only African American cardinal, delivering a homily that called on the faithful to honor the past while embracing the future with hope.

The Mass, celebrated by Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., ArchSee MASS on page 17

The Hillsdale railroad station, circa 1885, taken from across the Hillsdale Avenue and Broadway intersection.

Next stop:Hillsdale!

The opening ofthe Pascack Valley Line

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER

SPECIAL TO

PASCACK PRESS

SATURDAY, MARCH 4, 1870 was a redletter day for Hillsdale. The first train on the new railroad pulled into town with flags and bunting flying, engine tooting, passengers waving, and a crowd of enthusiastic onlookers shouting a welcome. Hillsdale would be the northern terminus of the Pascack Valley line for the next two years, and a center for railroad activity.

By the 1850s the wheels were already in motion to bring the railroad through the Pascack Valley. The Hackensack & New York Railroad Companyʼs track had been completed as far as North Hackensack in 1866, and this new line would be an extension up through the rural countryside.

In an agreement dated Nov. 12, 1866, two dozen substantial landowners—names like Bogert, Hopper, Ackerman, and Demarest—constituting an area from Emerson through Woodcliff Lake, pledged their land, at $1 per acre, for the new rail line.

The extension followed the Hackensack River as far as Oradell, and then forged a path through open farmland, woods, and swamp, and across brooks, all over a prepared road bed and bridges strong enough to bear the weight of the rolling stock.

The track reached Hillsdale at the end of 1869 and work was put on hold until spring. After the worst of the winter was over, the railroad held a special excursion on March 4, 1870. This marked the official opening of the lower portion of the line that included station

Passengers walk from the Hillsdale station, circa 1910. Visible in the background are the Riley Building (built 1906) and Hillsdale House hotel (built 1870), both of which still stand at Broadway and Hillsdale Avenue.

stops at Emerson (then called Kinderkamack), Westwood, and Hillsdale.

At one oʼclock that afternoon, a train adorned with bunting and flags departed from Jersey City with about 100 invited guests on board. At Hackensack, four additional cars with excursionists were added to the party. At two oʼclock, the train pulled into Hillsdale with much fanfare.

David Patterson, president of the railroad company, entertained everyone at his home in Hillsdale. His elegant mansion stood a short distance away, near present-day Hillsdale Avenue and Patterson Street, now part of the campus of St. Johnʼs Academy. In reporting on the event, The New York Times described the community as "a small

See NEXT on page 20

Latest delay adds to anticipation on park opening

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFFLAKE

After seven years of waiting and due to 2025ʼs wintry weather in January and February, the grand opening of the boroughʼs newest park is delayed again.

This winterʼs sub-freezing weather, including snow and ice, has slowed down progress at the new passive park site at Wierimus Road and Woodcliff Avenue, delaying the opening until possibly April or May, borough officials said at the Feb. 24 meeting.

Pascack Press visited the site on Sat., Feb 22, noting a large sod lawn in place, but another field that was muddy, with piles of melting snow throughout the 2.1acre property.

Partially completed were

areas around the parkʼs amphitheater and arch-covered entrance. A walkway ringed the siteʼs perimeter, with memorial benches placed around the unfinished park.

Officials said veterans monuments were still to be moved to the new park and would arrive soon.

Administrator Tom Padilla said officials want to have the entire park “fully operational and complete” for the grand opening.

Councilman Chistopher Bonanno said the opening date would be moved from late March. He said once a date is finalized, officials will let everyone know. The new parkʼs name will also be

unveiled at the grand opening.

Officials also said they would be doing a new traffic study at the busy Wierimus Road and Woodcliff Avenue nexus to provide county officials up to date vehicle counts and volumes. Local officials had reached out to county officials to pursue a possible traffic signal at the busy intersection. However, county officials said it could be up to five years.

Meanwhile, Padilla said that he would meet together with the borough engineer to formulate ideas that could be discussed with county engineering. Former councilwoman Josephine Higgins, a

Let us help announce your achievements. Send all news to

longtime volunteer ambulance member, said she wondered why the county would not do anything about the intersection when they knew it was a dangerous intersection. She said she had responded to a horrible accident at the intersection with the local ambulance squad.

“Itʼs just a matter of time before someone is hurt,” said Hig-

gins, also a former mayor.

The council awarded a park installation contract to Applied Landscape Technologies, Montville, the lowest of two bidders on the long-delayed park project. Padilla said 11 contractors picked up bid packages but only two contractors submitted bids.

Borough says it’s out in front on state obligation

As the borough approaches the next round of state-mandated affordable housing obligations, officials are working to balance compliance with thoughtful land use planning.

According to council land use liaison Lauren Letizia, Mayor Raymond Arroyo has established an Affordable Housing Task Force to guide Westwood through the process. The task force includes the Planning Board chair and vice chair, the borough planner, Letizia as the mayorʼs Planning Board appointee, and the boroughʼs deputy administrator.

The boroughʼs next steps follow the Jan. 31 deadline for municipalities to respond to

obligations set by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Westwoodʼs council voted to accept DCAʼs so-

called aspirational affordable housing obligation, a decision that will influence zoning and development plans in the coming months.

Letizia told Pascack Press on Feb. 25 that “There has been some coverage in the local paper as to what this means, and we have been getting some questions from the public. So, I want to provide a brief overview of what the acceptance of these numbers means for Westwood.”

She said while Westwood remains involved alongside Montvale and other municipalities [as plaintiffs Local Leaders for Responsible Planning in what observers are calling The Montvale case] challenging aspects of the stateʼs affordable housing mandates, the borough was required to either accept or formally object to its assigned numbers.

“As the mayor explained in his February report to the council, … as written, the law exempts some towns (“Qualified Urban Aid Communities”) from accommodating any new (“prospective need”) affordable units and shifts that obligation unto the rest of the towns, artificially inflating our numbers.

“While the attorneys for the Montvale case will ultimately turn to the federal courts, Westwood was obliged to either accept or formally object to the numbers that were provided by the DCA. The only thing a municipality could object to, per the recent amendments to the law, was the actual number, not the method of arriving at that number, which was codified through recent amendments to the statute.

“We could not challenge the formula for how the ʻprospective needʼand ʻcurrent needʼnumbers were calculated. That multi-part

formula which considered things like our overall economic growth as compared to our region and available vacant land could not be challenged.

“For the late January deadline, we could disagree with the numbers themselves — for example suggesting that DCA miscalculated the acreage of vacant land or the calculation of our tax ratables, but our planners found that the math was accurate.

“While the Montvale lawsuit points to our substantial issues with the method, as far as the Jan 31 deadline was concerned, we could not let that pass without submitting our number or we would have essentially lost our current immunity (valid until July 2025) fromdevelopers wishing to build high density multiple dwellings in areas the borough had deemed inappropriate, as well as our standing in future negotiations.

“Between now and June 30, we essentially have to compile our own planning documents to make a compelling argument for Westwoodʼs ʻrealistic (actual vs. ʻaspirationalʼ) development potential” and create overlay zones to indicate where such development could take place.

“To put that into perspective, during the last round the court agreed that our realistic development potential (RDP) was just one Westwood is a fully developed community so there was only space to build one more affordable unit. But we still had to amend our zoning to allow for almost 400 affordable units if a developer wanted to acquire properties and build in these areas.

“Westwood did see several modest and appropriately scaled developments during the last decade and added six units to its affordable balance sheet, despite the lack of

developable land in that same time 10-year period.

We now have until June 30, 2025, to establish our RDP and create overlay zones where affordable housing can be built to comply with the upcoming fourth round of obligations.

Mayor Arroyo has tasked us to establish a timeline and identify areas in the Borough that could realistically support redevelopment for Affordable Housing. The economic realities of relying on the private sector to build Affordable Housing means that developers get a "density bonus." Typically, ONE affordable unit will only be built only if alongside FOUR market-rate or luxury units (often referred to as the 80/20 rule).

While the intricacies of what types of affordable housing can and should be built and what the municipality receives credit for are numerous (for example limits on how many one bedroom, senior housing, or differently-abled housing units can be counted towards compliance), the Mayor's Affordable Housing Task Force is exploring creative options that have the potential to work well with the existing size, scale and confines of Westwood's established physical environment. We recognize the intrinsic value of open space, light, and air that defines our suburban community, and the very real value of permeable coverage. These features enhance public health, wellness, safety, and flood mitigation. We also recognize the need for affordable housing and will continue to fully comply with our legal obligations – while continuing to support common sense judicial and legislative changes to improve NJ's Affordable Housing Act.

Emerson follow’s hero’s lead, aids a stricken Tenn. town

BY MICHAELOLOHAN AND JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

EMERSON

With guidance from Daniel OʼBrien, a recent Fifth District Hometown Hero, the Borough Council has approved the sale of a nearly 30-year-old surplus fire engine for just $1 to a Tennessee fire department that lost equipment to Hurricane Heleneʼs historic roar and soak.

The recipient, Centerview Volunteer Fire Department in Newport, Tenn., will use the 1998 American LaFrance pumper to replace an engine destroyed in September 2024, when the hurricane dumped more than two feet of rain across parts of the South.

Helene made landfall in Florida in the “Big Bend” region as a Category 4 carrying winds of up to 140 mph. The hurricane then chewed through Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee. Wire reports said at least 56 people lost their lives as a result of Hurricane Helene.

The idea to donate the surplus fire apparatus came from OʼBrien, an Emerson resident, former Emerson Volunteer Fire Department chief, and current Westwood Volunteer Fire Department member, who has dedicated 50 years to firefighting. He was recognized on Feb. 18 by the Borough Council for a related Hometown Hero distinction, awarded by Fifth District Congressman Josh Gottheimer in

entire fire departments were left crippled by Hurricane Heleneʼs historic flooding. “I just wanted to make a little

bit of a difference,” OʼBrien said. He personally delivered 14 portable generators to a rescue center in the mountains of North Carolina on Nov. 8, 2024, including a 5,000-watt portable generator from Winco Generators and 1,000 feet of 10-4 cord from Cooper Electric Supply. He also used his own Skid-Steer Bobcat to clear debris and repair damaged driveways.

“With Danʼs mission clear, he has devoted considerable time

MIKE’S

December 2024.

Firefighterʼs Mission: Rebuilding from Devastation

A longtime business owner— he has run Academy Electric in Emerson since 1981—OʼBrien has taken it upon himself to collect surplus firefighting equipment from across New Jersey to help departments in disaster-stricken regions. He launched a GoFundMe campaign to purchase additional used tankers, pumpers, and ladder trucks and personally covers transportation costs—each trip burns approximately $1,500 in fuel.

His immediate past mission took him to North Carolina, where

Daniel O’Brien, ex-chief of the Emerson Volunteer Fire Department and current member of the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department. File.

Centerville, Tenn. Fire Hall.

$170K for new cameras, door security at safety complex

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

RIVERVALE

Township Council on Feb. 24 approved a $170,000 security system to protect and monitor police department operations inside and outside the new public safety complex Administrator Gennaro Rotella told us that the funds for the camera systems and door access system to be installed will

come from bond funds originally approved for the complexʼs construction.

The project cost for new cameras and access doors totals $170,373.48, officials said.

Rotella said the new security cameras are AI-driven and provide 24/7 building coverage. He said police officials reviewed and approved schematics for camera security system design.

The contract to install security cameras and access doors was awarded to EAW Security,

Blue Bell, Penn., under resolution 2025-80.

He said similar to furniture a nd communications systems that must be added at the new facility, safety and security upgrades are necessary for effective and safe operations. He said they do not constitute a change order as they are not being handled by the buildingʼs general contractor, Dobco, Inc. of Wayne.

R otella said the building should be completed by June,

although last-minute fixes and other upgrades may require addit ional time before the police department is fully moved in.

Council also approved a $43,200 contract with Watch Us Grow Landscape Design LLC to undertake a clubhouse patio improvement project at River Vale Country Club, which is township-owned.

WESTWOOD

R otella said the work should help fix a drainage problem at the golf course that has caused occasional flooding in the clubʼs bar area. He said project funds will come from the remaining 2021 A merican Rescue Plan funds d istributed post-pandemic to help stimulate economic growth.

2025 budget review set for 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.

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 Feb. 24, 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.

LADIES OF PURPOSE

In potent assembly: Deen J. Meloro, president of the NJSFWC/GFWC Woman’s Club of Westwood, alongside members Madeleine Ciocco and Barbara Marino.

WESTWOOD

NEWSREACHES your editor this week of a most felicitous gathering of the women of the Palisades District, convened at the venerable Englewood Womanʼs Club. In fine order did the assembled presidents render their reports, each in turn detailing the fundraisers and endeavors set forth for the coming year.

Chief among the conventionʼs noble aims: the raising of essential funds and public awareness for the New Jersey Childrenʼs Alliance, designated as the organizationʼs state project for this year and the next.

Let it be proclaimed to all and sundry that the NJCA stands as a statewide nonprofit of estimable purpose, its mission—can one conceive of a cause more worthy?—being to advance hope, healing, and justice for child victims of abuse. Through steadfast support of child advocacy centers and multidisciplinary teams across all 21 counties of our Garden State, the NJCA provides training, resources, advocacy, leadership, and technical assistance in pursuit of its vital charge.

Those desirous of additional information on the Womanʼs Club of Westwood are bid telephone 201-9161580 or else avail themselves of Mr. Tim Berners-Leeʼs World Wide Web, linked to westwoodwomansclub.org.

Joan’s Joy ‘Mardi Gras’

The Joanʼs Joy Foundation is inviting the community to a Mardi Gras-themed Virtual Vendor Party on Tuesday, March 4, at 7:30 p.m., benefiting its mission to promote child safety and support children facing challenges.

The online event will feature movie trivia with prizes, fun surprises, and a variety of vendors offering baking and kitchen goods, candles, chocolates, and more—all from the comfort of home. A portion of the proceeds will go toward Joanʼs Joyʼs advocacy efforts and programs. Links to join the event and shop can be found at JoansJoy.org.

A Mission Rooted in Advocacy

The Joanʼs Joy Foundation was founded by Rosemarie DʼAlessandro in honor of her daughter, Joan Angela DʼAlessandro, a Hillsdale girl who was tragically murdered in 1973 at just 7 years old. Since then, the foundation has worked tirelessly to advance child safety laws, raise awareness of crimes against children, and provide resources for those in need. The organization has played a key

role in Joanʼs Law, which ensures life imprisonment without parole for those convicted of murdering a child under 14 in connection with a sex crime.

Joanʼs Joy continues to host community events, fundraisers, and educational programs aimed at protecting children and supporting families through advocacy and outreach.

New Life Coaching Services

In addition to her advocacy work, Rosemarie DʼAlessandro has launched a life coaching service to help individuals navigate loss, change, and lifeʼs challenges.

She offers Zoom, phone, and inperson sessions at flexible and affordable rates. Those interested can learn more or schedule a free consultation by visiting JoansJoy.org or emailing rosebd@email.com.

“Every person has great worth,” DʼAlessandro tells Pascack Press

For more information on Joanʼs Joy, its mission, or upcoming events, visit JoansJoy.org.

Spread the word!

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

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

WESTWOOD

Fixed-income Budgeting, and Nutrition For One

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 fol-

RIVER VALE

Pre-K T-Ball

lows 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 lowsodium, 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.

Registration

River Vale children who are entering kindergarten in the fall are eligible to take part in the townʼs spring 2025 T-ball program. The clinic runs Saturdays from 1 to 2 p.m May 3, 10, 17, and 31; and June 7 and 14 (no session Memorial Day weekend) at Holdrum School field. The cost to participate is $60 per child. Registration is required and available online only via River Valeʼs Community Pass system through April 4. Want to enrich your childʼs experience? Become a coach! No baseball/softball experience necessary. For more information see the Township of River Vale.

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, pickle-

ball, and yoga.

The success of Forever Young supports Westwoodʼs mission of promoting aging in place by providing a well-rounded wellness program. The department regularly partners with local doctors, nutritionists, chefs, and other wellness professionals to offer informative seminars on preventa-

tive 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 201-6647882.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

DEMAREST

The Art School at Old Church is proud to host two compelling exhibitions this February: “Beyond the Bloom: Botanical Photographs by Hank Gans & Laurie Peek” at the Mikhail Zakin Gallery and “Insights and Inspirations” at the Café Gallery. Both exhibitions will run through March 16.

Beyond the Bloom: Botanical Photography

“Beyond the Bloom” invites visitors to experience the natural world through the unique lenses of photographers Hank Gans and Laurie Peek. Peekʼs series, In Lieu of Flowers, explores themes of loss and transformation, showcasing the healing power of art. Gansʼ work, with its diverse styles and techniques, highlights the intricate beauty, colors, and textures of flowers. From vibrant hues to monochromatic studies, the exhibition captures the splendor of botanical life in all its forms.

Insights and Inspirations: Emerging Artists

The Café Gallery will feature Insights and Inspirations, a showcase of works by emerging artists studying under professional men-

“Beyond the Bloom” invites visitors to experience the natural world through the unique lenses of photographers Hank Gans and Laurie Peek.

tors Jane Chang and Molly Ma. This exhibition celebrates individuality, creativity, and growth, offering a dynamic collection of works across various mediums. The pieces reflect the boundless possibilities of self-expression nurtured in The Art Schoolʼs supportive environment.

Event Details:

See You There! Both exhibits will be on view

at 561 Piermont Road, Demarest. The gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The opening reception on Feb. 20 provides a unique opportunity to meet the artists and experience their works in person.

For more information, contact marketing coordinator Justin Lerant at justin@tasoc.org or 201446-6104.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

HILLSDALE

PlanterprojectmarkofEagle’sexellence

CONGRATULATIONSTO

Tyler Minneker of Boy Scout Troop 109 for completing his Eagle Scout project. Minneker, a senior at Pascack Valley High School, planned and built six new planter boxes for the Hillsdale Free Public Library. His goal:a welcoming space where people of all ages and backgrounds can gather, learn about

gardening, and enjoy nature.

To bring his vision to life, Minneker organized a team of volunteers through every step of the process. The project involved clearing the site, constructing and positioning the garden beds, and setting up an irrigation system to ensure long-term sustainability. Throughout the effort, he worked closely with library staff to align the garden with the communityʼs needs, ensuring it could be used for educational programming

Way to go! Dylan Minneker, Ciaran Henry, Tyler Minneker, Ben Gulleyan, and Evan Minneker show off part of the planter box project Tyler led at HFPL. Courtesy photo.

and public enjoyment. “This project taught me a lot about leadership and problem-solving,” Minneker tells Pascack Press “It was great to see people from different backgrounds working together for a common goal. In the end, the garden became more than just a place to grow plants—it turned into a spot where people could connect, learn, and build a stronger community.”

Troop 109 (troopwebhost.org/Troop109Hillsdale), sponsored by Holy Trinity Church, emphasizes youth leadership, teamwork, and mentorship, with older scouts guiding younger members. The troop meets regularly and organizes camping trips and community service projects under adult supervision.

—Via

Connor Brannigan

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/tutor-trainingworkshop-form.html

MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

PASCACK VALLEY

GLUTEN FREE PIZZA AND RAVIOLI!

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Tri-Boro Memorial Day Parade

The Park Ridge American Legion is preparing for this yearʼs Tri-Boro Memorial Day Parade, set to take place on Monday, May 26. The event is a cherished tradition honoring our nationʼs veterans, and all are welcome to participate.

Individuals and groups interested in joining this patriotic parade are encouraged to reach out via email at njpost153parade100@gmail.co m or call the post at 201-3919754. Parade assembly will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the firehouse in Montvale.

Whether youʼre a child newly joining the Brownies or Cub Scouts or an older resident looking to honor our veterans, thereʼs a place for everyone in this community celebration.

After the parade, all are welcome back to Post 153 at 188 Ridge Ave. for fellowship and remembrance. As we anticipate this special day, the Park Ridge American Legion encourages you to proudly display an American flag in honor of the freedoms we cherish. For more info and to get involved, contact the Park Ridge American Legion today.

Troop’s community dinner, raffle March 7

Itʼs back!

The Annual Community Dinner and Raffle fundraiser for Montvale BSA Troop 334 is Friday, March 7 at 6:30 p.m. at Fieldstone Middle School.

Join your neighbors for a fun evening of food, friends, music, a tricky tray raffle, and so much more.

Your dinner includes a pasta and meatball entree with salad and garlic bread.

After dinner, enjoy dessert and coffee and the highly anticipated raffle drawing. Prizes include sports tickets, restaurant gift cards, and much more. Face painting and activities for the kids are provided. Tickets are $12 at the door, $10 in advance. Kids under 5, free. To get your hands on tickets, see your Troop 334 scout, email Troop334Montvale@gmail.com, or

call (201) 972-5820.

Proceeds benefit BSA Scout Troop 334 Montvale. This event is

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.

Through this initiative, Troop 350 will place a 12” x 18” polycotton 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

•Veterans Day – Tuesday,

Nov. 11

Flags will be set up at least three days before each holiday and will remain in place for several days before being collected by a scout three to five days after the holiday. Due to the close timing of Labor Day and Patriot Day, flags for both holidays will be retrieved only after Patriot Day.

The cost of the service is $25

per year for one flag per holiday or $50 per year for two flags per holiday. This program is available only to residents of Westwood and Washington Township.

To participate, sign up by May 15 by emailing WestwoodTroop350@gmail.com with their name, address, email, and phone number.

Payment can be made via:

• Venmo: @WestwoodTroop350

• PayPal: paypal.me/WestwoodTroop350

• Checks: Payable to Westwood Troop 350 and dropped off or mailed to Westwood Troop 350, 430 Center Ave., Westwood, NJ 07675.

All proceeds support Westwood Troop 350.

sponsored by the Montvale Fire Department.

MONTVALE

The Annual Community Dinner and Raffle fundraiser for Montvale BSA Troop 334 is Friday, March 7.

WESTWOOD

O’Brien:

FROM PAGE 7

and resources to helping them get temporary power, as permanent restoration is not expected until March 2025,” the borough noted.

The Emerson Chamber of Commerce vice president has also been securing donations for fire departments in need, saying simply, “Iʼm just a guy and a fireman who tries to help people who need help.”

A New Fire Engine for Centerview

After Mayor Danielle DiPaola read OʼBrienʼs proclamation

into the record, he suggested the borough donate its surplus 1998 pumper truck to a department in need. He personally offered to transport it to Centerview, a town of approximately 3,500 residents southwest of Nashville.

The council unanimously approved the donation, with DiPaola beaming, “We are pleased to be able to help those who are less fortunate that have been affected by a natural disaster.”

The Centerview Volunteer Fire Department serves a historically rich community, known as the hometown of country music legend Minnie Pearl and for attractions like the National Banana Pudding Festival and Grinderʼs Switch Music Hour.

While we were unable by

press time to learn from Centerview what losses it sustained in Hurricane Helene, reports from across Tennessee paint a dire picture.

According to Fire Apparatus Magazine, the Elk Mills Poga Volunteer Fire Department in Butler, Tenn. was destroyed when rapids washed away its firehouse and tanker. The department shared a heartbreaking update on Sept. 28: “Our station is completely gone. Our little community needs your prayers.”

Two days later, they wrote: “Our community has been devastated. The amount of damage and destruction is catastrophic and truly hard to fathom. Unfortunately, our fire department building is sitting somewhere in the Watauga

Troop 80 scouts dash to derby victory

As Boy Scout Troop 80 celebrates its 100th year of Scouting, the troop has added another achievement to its legacy—securing first place at the 3 Rivers District Klondike Derby. The annual winter competition, held in January at Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco, tested scoutsʼsurvival and outdoor skills in a series of rigorous challenges.

Competing against several other troops, Troop 80 Scouts, ages 11 to 17, showcased their expertise in knot tying, shelter building, fire making, orienteering, and sled racing. Months of preparation and teamwork paid off as the Scouts navigated the eventʼs course, demonstrating skill and efficiency at each station. Their ability to build fires quickly in the frigid conditions was a key factor in their success.

The defining moment came in the sled race, where Troop 80ʼs speed and coordination gave them the final push to victory

“Weʼve worked hard all year, and this is a great testament to how well weʼve come together as a team,” said Troop 80 Scoutmaster Mikki Rehak. “The boys did a fantastic job under pressure, and itʼs exciting to see them succeed.”

The victory not only secured a trophy but also reinforced the core values of teamwork, leadership, and perseverance—hallmarks of Troop 80ʼs century-long tradition. For more information about Troop 80, contact Troop Secretary Natalie Rehak at parkridgetroop80bo yscouts@ gmail.com.

Lake, along with our tanker. But we arenʼt just a building—weʼre people. Weʼre people who believe in our community and have been called to serve those in it.”

They emphasized that rebuilding efforts will take time and urged neighbors to check in on each other and offer support.

Helping Where Itʼs Needed Centerview Volunteer Fire Department describes itself as hav-

ing a “well-equipped fire hall just north of the public square,” housing a heavy rescue truck, a pumper, a ladder truck, and swiftwater rescue boats and equipment.” OʼBrien continues to collect equipment donations and raise funds to support departments affected by natural disasters. Those interested in contributing can contact him through the Emerson Volunteer Fire Department or his GoFundMe campaign.

Senior Fellowship March 11

The Westwood Senior Fellowship next meets Tuesday, March 11 for the members-only annual St. Patrickʼs Day Luncheon. The doors open at 11 a.m. While there, sign up for the June luncheon, set for Bellissimo restaurant. Note that Westwood Regional High Schoolʼs Woodington Players are mounting a local-seniors-only presentation of “Mamma Mia!” on Saturday, March 15 at 2 p.m.

St. Andrew’s 50+Club hosts Neil Dankman

Come out and enjoy vocalist/entertainer Neil Dankman at the next meeting of St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club on Wednesday, March 12 at 1 p.m. in the school gym. New members are always welcome. Cake and coffee will be served. Please bring an item/donation for the food pantry. For more information call Elaine at 201-664-7037.

Via the town website: “Mayor Jacobs and Ms. Minnie [Pearl] welcome you to Centerville, Tenn.”

WESTWOOD

WESTWOOD

Via Troop 80 Star Scout Pierce Rehak

PARK RIDGE

Park Ridge Troop 80 Sled 1 races to the finish; Troop 80 Klondike Derby Weekend participants at their cabin

PR Troop 80 Klondike Derby Weekend participants outside their cabin.

Troop 80’s winning sled team included, back to front and left to right, Matthew Carlin (NNJC District Leader), Vincent Amitrano, Ryan Widmer, Pierce Rehak, Peter Ritiu, Charles Rankin, an NNJC District Leader, Wyatt Chang, and Michael Urban.

PROPERTYTAXRELIEFSESSIONFORSENIORS MARCH 18

Borough seniors might be eligible for significant property tax relief, and local officials want to make sure they know how to claim it. OnMonday, March 18 at noon, theWestwood Community Center (55 Jefferson Ave.)

will host aninformation session onNew Jerseyʼs new streamlined Property Tax Relief Application.

Seniors65 and olderand eligibledisabled residentscan learn how to apply for theSenior Freeze, ANCHOR, and Stay NJ

p rograms—all now accessible througha single application.

This free session, featuring a program representative from the state, will cover eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits residents can expect.

The Pascack Hills wrestling program,above after competing against Teaneck,Garfield,and Manasquan on Saturday, Feb.15,was a force to reckon with this year.Courtesy photo.

Power finish for PHWrestling

The Pascack Hills High School wrestling team wrapped up an impressive 2024–2025 season, finishing as co-champions of the Big North Conference, P atriot League, and advancing to the State Sectional semifinals.

The Broncos, led by head

coach David Bucco and assistant head Coach Kevin Moran, closed out the season with a 17-10 record. “Iʼm really proud of this

group. They fully committed to our offseason program, and their hard work showed as they improved throughout the year,” Bucco tells Pascack Press. “As always, I want to thank my assistant and volunteer coaches for the time and dedication they put into this program.”

A Simpler Way to Save on Property Taxes

For the first time, New Jersey h ascombined applicationsfor its major property tax relief programs, making it easier for seniors and disabled homeowners to apply. The newPAS-1 applicationwill be mailed to overone millionNew Jersey households by early March and will also be available online atpropertytaxrelief.nj.govstarting mid-February.

“This new one-stop application will make it simpler for residents to apply for the property tax relief benefits theyʼre entitled to,” s aidState Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio in outreach.

What Seniors Need to Know

• Whoʼs eligible?Seniors 65 and olderand eligibledisabled homeownersormobile homeowners.

• Whatʼs new?Instead of separate applications, thePAS-1 formnow coversSenior Freeze, ANCHOR, and Stay NJ.

• When to apply?Applications openmid-February, with a filing deadline of Oct. 31, 2025. Benefits will be distributed starting July 2025.

To attend this information s ession,RSVP by emailing rciarlante@westwoodnj.govor calling201-664-7882.

Golfers, connect for a cause!

PARKRIDGE

Calling all golf enthusiasts! The Park Ridge Police Department’s 8th Annual D.A.R.E. Golf Outing is set for Monday, April 28 at 10 a.m. at Patriot Hills Golf Club in Stony Point, N.Y.

This exciting event offers golfers the opportunity to enjoy a day on the greens while supporting the D.A.R.E. program, which promotes drug abuse resistance education for local youth.

Players and sponsors are invited to participate in making this event a huge success. The cost is $250 per golfer, which includes lunch, dinner, and an open bar

Businesses, organizations, and individuals interested in sponsoring or playing can reach out for more details. For sponsorship and player inquiries write spanagi@parkridgepolice.com or jmanning@parkridgepolice.com. Join us for a great day of golf and giving back!

Mass:

FROM PAGE 4

bishop of Newark, brought together hundreds of worshippers, including members of the archdioceseʼs African American, African, and Caribbean Apostolate, who honored Black Catholic heritage through music, dance, and a procession of banners featuring Black candidates for sainthood.

Looking ahead, Cardinal Tobin will celebrate two Ash Wednesday Masses at St. Patrickʼs Pro-Cathedral in Newark on March 5.

Cardinal Gregory, the retiring Archbishop of Washington, D.C., reflected on the significance of Black History Month, calling it an occasion to recognize the struggles and triumphs of Black pioneers while also inspiring new generations.

"It is a moment to commit to tomorrow and to urge those who will be our future heroes to seize the challenges that will lie ahead

WESTWOOD

for them and for all of us," Cardinal Gregory said. He also paid tribute to Carter G. Woodson, the historian credited with founding Black History Month, emphasizing his vision of an empowered future.

"I pray (young people) see their own future in the likeness of the man who dared to believe that people of color have an important heritage and a future in which to hope," Gregory said.

A Joyful Celebration of Faith and Culture

The liturgy, Cardinal Gregoryʼs first at the Cathedral Basilica, featured lively gospel music, with hymns such as "To My Father's House" and "Glory, Glory" inspiring the congregation to clap and dance. Liturgical dancer Quonda Maina Cobbs also performed as part of the celebration.

"It's not just for the African American community — it's for the American community," Cardinal Gregory said in an interview before Mass. "It's an opportunity for all of our neighbors to recognize the gifts that people of color bring with us in our heritage."

At the conclusion of the

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.

Mass, Cardinals Gregory and Tobin were each presented with hand-carved African religious art, gifted by members of the African American, African, and Caribbean Apostolate. Rahsaan Garlin, associate director of the apostolate, left the congregation with a message inspired by Sister Thea Bowman, a Black candidate for sainthood: "Please continue to show up and show out through Christ Jesus, remembering who you are and whose you are," Garlin said. "I think we've made Black history today."

As part of the celebration, the apostolate has launched an essay contest for high school juniors and seniors of African American, African, and Caribbean descent in the archdiocese. Students are invited to share their reflections on Cardinal Gregoryʼs visit and its significance to their faith.

More information about the contest and the apostolateʼs mission can be found at www.rcan.org/aaaca.

About the Archdiocese of Newark

The Archdiocese of Newark serves 1.3 million Catholics across Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Union counties. Led by Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., the sixth Archbishop of Newark, the archdiocese includes 211 parishes, 67 Catholic schools, and a wide range of missions and ministries dedicated to faith, education, and social service. For more information, visit www.rcan.org.

Via Sean Quinn for the Archdiocese of Newark

Tickets to ‘Legally Blonde,’ fur shure!

OMG, like, you totally have to see “Legally Blonde the Musical”! Pascack Theatreʼs highenergy, feel-good production, packed with humor, heart, and a whole lot of pink, hits the stage March 14–22 at Pascack Valley High School.

Bursting with catchy music, sharp wit, and a powerful message of resilience, “Legally Blonde”— with a score by Laurence OʼKeefe and Nell Benjamin—follows Elle Woods (junior Maya Teckwani of Hillsdale), a determined, fashionsavvy young woman whose world is turned upside down when her boyfriend Warner (junior Anderson Moss of Montvale) breaks up with her to pursue Harvard Law. Refusing to be underestimated, Elle follows him to Harvard, facing academic challenges, tough professors, and unexpected friendships.

Along the way, she discovers her own strength and intelligence,

proving sheʼs far more than just a blonde in pink. Pascack Theatre, founded in fall 2024, is redefining high school theatre in the area by uniting the exceptional talent of Pascack Hills and Pascack Valley students. After an acclaimed debut production, the company is thrilled to present” Legally Blonde” on the Pascack Valley stage before transitioning to Pas-

cack Hills for the 2025–26 season. Performances are March 14 at 7 p.m.; March 15 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; March 16 at 2 p.m.; and March 20–22 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $22 for adults, $15 for students. Purchase at pascacktheatre.org; you can scan the QR code in this article to get there. Donʼt miss this electrifying production—because being true to yourself never goes out of style!

HILLSDALE

Scan for tickets

Dentistry From the Heart: Paying it Forward

At Smile More Dentistry, we believe in the power of a smile and the transformative impact it can have on someone's life. Thatʼs why we are thrilled to announce a new initiative designed to give back to our Bergen County community and make dental care accessible to those who need it most.

Every month, we will be selecting one individual, child or adult (ages 2 and up), to receive free dental care in our office. The recipient can choose one of the following essential treatments:

• A dental cleaning to ensure a

healthy smile

• A filling to repair cavities

• A tooth extraction to alleviate pain and prevent further oral health issues

Eligibility

This program is designed for individuals who face barriers to accessing dental care, including:

• Those on public assistance

• Individuals or families experiencing financial difficulties

• Members of the homeless community

How It Works

• Nomination Process: We invite members of the community to nominate individuals who could benefit from this program. Whether itʼs a friend, neighbor, family member, or even yourself, we want to hear their story.

• Selection Criteria: Each nomination will be reviewed carefully by our team, and the recipient will be chosen based on who demonstrates the greatest need.

• Announcement: The selected individual will be contacted directly and announced (with their permis-

FEELINGIT!

THE POLAR BEAR PLUNGE at Seaside Heights, part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run fundraising efforts, challenges thousands of participants each year to brave the icy Atlantic waters—all to support Special Olympics New Jersey. Open to individuals, teams, organizations, and businesses, the event raises funds for year-round programming and competitions for thousands of athletes across the state.

O ver the past weekend, Hillsdale police Ptl. Vdovjak, Ptl. Speciale, Ptl. Gadomski, Ptl. Marro, Ptl. Miller, Ptl. Roma, and Ptl. Bruce participated. HPDposted, “Water temperatures got down to 37 degrees. Good job, guys! As always, PBA 207 made a donation to the New Jersey Special Olympics. We will continue to support this cause for years to come and hope to see the community out next year with us!”

sion) on our social media platforms at the beginning of each month.

•Treatment Appointment: Once chosen, the recipient will work with our office to schedule their treatment at a convenient time.

Why Weʼre Doing This

Dental health is an essential part of overall well-being, yet for many, access to care is a significant challenge. In Bergen County alone, many families and individuals struggle to prioritize dental care due to financial constraints. By offering this monthly program, we hope to ease the burden for those in our community who need it most and help them achieve a healthier, brighter future.

How to Nominate

Submitting a nomination is simple! Visit our website TappanDentist.com or stop by our office to fill

Dr.Mariliza LaCap and Dr.Tong are graduates of Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery and are owners of Smile More Dentistry and Smile More Kidz.

out a nomination form 140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan, N.Y. Be sure to include the nomineeʼs name and age; a brief explanation of their current situation and why they would benefit from this program; contact information for both you and the nominee.

Together, we can make a difference, one smile at a time. If you know someone who could benefit from this program, donʼt hesitate to nominate them today. Letʼs work together to spread hope and health in our Bergen County community.

Smile More Dentistry, 140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan, N.Y.

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

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 toilettrained. 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.

HILLSDALE

Reps reintroduce school safety legislation

On Monday, Feb. 24 U.S. Representatives Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), and Don Davis (NC-1) reintroduced bipartisan school safety legislation to require silent panic alarms in schools nationwide and invest in School Resource Officers.

The bipartisan Alyssa's Legacy Youth in School Safety Alert (ALYSSA) Act will require silent panic alarms in all schools to immediately alert law enforcement of an active shooter situation. The bipartisan Strengthening Our Schools (SOS) Act will increase investment in more welltrained School Resource Officers so that every school has a first responder already on the campus in the event of a critical incident.

The ALYSSA Act is named in memory of 14-year-old Alyssa Alhadeff, a Woodcliff Lake native who was senselessly killed in the 2018 Parkland, Fla. Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Lori Alhadeff, member of Broward County’s school board and president of Make Our Schools Safe, with a portait of her daughter, Alyssa, a Woodcliff Lake native who was killed in the 2018 Parkland, Fla. Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting. MOSS

shooting. The Alhadeff family originally lived in Gottheimer's district in Woodcliff Lake before moving to Parkland.

According to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics, only 43% of schools report using silent alarms that are directly connected to local law enforcement. In 2024 alone, more than 220 people were fatally shot or wounded on school grounds, up from 151 in 2023. Only two months into 2025, there have already been 10 incidents of gunfire on school grounds, resulting in 10 people fatally shot or wounded.

“With these bipartisan bills, we're turning Alyssa's memory and the pain her family and friends carry each day into action. Both the ALYSSA Act and the SOS Act will help protect students in the one public place they should feel safest: their schools,” said Gottheimer. “Together, with silent alarms in every school directly

Reserve your spot for ‘Swing’ musical

Woodcliff Lake seniors have until March 6 to reserve a ticket to join the Woodcliff Lake Senior Association for their trip to take in “Swing, the Musical” April 24 at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse.

The music is from the Swing era of jazz, 1930–1946, and includes many well-known tunes by Duke Ellington, Count Basie,

Benny Goodman and other top musicians of that era.

The entertainment includes high energy dancing, singing, and acrobatics. Lunch, with a choice of entrees, is included.

Those attending will be transported to the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse via bus. It arrives at the Woodcliff Lake Pool April 24 at

9:30 a.m. and departs for the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse at 9:45. Lunch is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., when the show starts. The bus departs for Woodcliff Lake at 3:30.

The all-inclusive cost of the event is $82 per person. Reservations must be made by Thursday, March 6. To reserve your ticket call Marilyn at 201-391-4720.

connected to local law enforcement agencies and with School Resource Officers at more schools around the country, we are taking concrete steps to help keep students and faculty safe from gun violence and active situations. I will never stop fighting to protect children across the nation from senseless school shootings and acts of gun violence.”

“Congress has to use every tool we can to ensure schools have the resources to respond to emergency situations, and the ALYSSA Act and SOS Act I filed with Congressman Gottheimer are commonsense solutions to build those out. By improving emergency notification systems and the availability of first responders at Florida schools, Congress can take necessary action with this bill to help protect our students, teachers, and

families,” said Moskowitz.

“We cannot in good conscience stand by while our children fear for their lives in the classroom. By finding common ground through requiring panic alarms in schools and investing in school resource officers, we are sending a strong and clear message that we must keep our kids safe,” said Davis.

“I am so excited that Alyssa's Act has been filed again. I strongly encourage swift action to pass Alyssa's Act nationally so that every school can have a panic button as a standard level of safety protection. Our children deserve immediate access to emergency response—there is no time to wait when lives are on the line,” said Lori Alhadeff, member of Broward Countyʼs school board and president of Make Our Schools Safe.

Saturday, March 8, 2025

PAGE 4

settlement, containing several private houses, a large store, and a blacksmith shop."

The following day, the rail line was opened to the general

public, with three trains running daily between Jersey City and Hillsdale. As the terminus of the line, the Hillsdale rail yard had a turntable that permitted locomotives to be reversed for return trips. There were also train sheds, a water tower, and a car shop for repairs. Because the engines would spend the night in Hillsdale, many railroad workers lived

Furniture of Park Ridge; and

in the borough. Hillsdaleʼs train station was built in the ornate design of the Victorian period, and apparently no expense was spared. Mr. Patterson lived in Hillsdale, so his station had to be the pride of the line. Its second floor was the meeting place for the railroadʼs board of directors.

Construction of the tracks continued northward the following year, along the east side of the Pascack Brook through Woodcliff Lake (then called Pascack), and continuing into Park Ridge and Montvale before connecting to the existing railway in Nanuet.

The New Jersey and New York Railroad Company took over ownership of the line in 1880. Passenger service was accelerated and under the control of this company 20 new up-to-date model cars were placed into service.

Like the earlier variety, the new trains were painted orange with a dark red border over the windows. The name New Jersey & New York was imprinted on each in gilt letters. Inside the cars were red plush seats with iron arms. The cars were illuminated by oil lamps hanging at either end and heated with coal stoves.

When Erie took over the line in 1896, the car shops were removed from Hillsdale. The subsequent loss of freight brought about the demolition of the baggage house. The old turntable was filled in during the summer of 1959, after 90 years of service, and the water tower, the last relic of the steam engine days, was also taken down.

PARK RIDGE

Celeste Sherry: Spinner of Wool & More!

Join the Pascack Historical Society on Sunday, March 9, at 2 p.m. for a fascinating look at spinning and fiber arts throughout history with Celeste Sherry Dressed as a middle-class woman from 1775, Celeste will discuss the evolution of textile arts from the Neolithic Era to the 18th century, with a spinning demonstration and a hands-on display of fibers, naturally dyed yarns, and historical textile tools. Guests can try spinning on a drop spindle. A Q&A session follows. Pascack Historical Society, 19 Ridge Ave. Free for PHS members, $5 for non-members. Children welcome with an adult. Refreshments. For more, visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org or historyspinning.com.

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

Children at the Hillsdale station in the early 1900s. The advertising posters, from left, are for Wrigley’s gum; New York Frame and Picture Co. (at 142 Fulton St., this was targeting New York commuters); Caloris Bottle (a type of early insulated thermos); Grey's

Coca-Cola.

Via Hillsdale’s 125th Anniversary Committe/Zoltán Horváth

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

Letters:

FROM PAGE 4

ing funding to continue the succ essful first-generation homeownership program.

“Funding for both the Afforda ble Housing Trust Fund and first-generation homeownership program is essential to mitigating the harms of the ongoing housing affordability crisis. Providing strong housing funding will be particularly valuable this year, as municipalities are working to

develop plans for how to meet affordable housing needs over the next decade.

“ New Jersey should fully fund the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and not return to the days of raiding the Trust Fund for other budget programs. This is often the only source of funds for smaller developments, which do not qualify for federal funding.

“While we applaud Gov. Murphy for proposing an increase on fees for million-dollar homes, that funding should be dedicated to New Jerseyʼs growing housing crisis — and not general purpos-

ROCKER LARRY STEVENSAT THE TURNING POINT

Local singer-songwriter Larry Stevens has announced his bandʼs upcoming performance at The Turning Point in Piermont, N.Y., on Friday, March 7 at 8 p.m.

Stevens will perform a mix of original music and favorite cover tunes, including new songs from his upcoming sixth album.

Stevens has played at iconic New York venues such as Kennyʼs Castaways, The Bitter End, and The Village Gate. He spent several years in Nashville, writing, recording, and performing alongside some of the industryʼs top talent.

Stevens recently returned from a trip to Nashville, where he performed at 3rd and Lindsley alongside several acclaimed songwriters. “An amazing night

of talent and fun!” he said. While living in Nashville, he was a regular performer at the worldfamous Bluebird Cafe and many other renowned venues.

Since returning to the Northeast, Stevens has had the opportunity to open for dozens of charttopping national acts, including Huey Lewis and The News, America, Kenny Rogers, The Doobie Brothers, Kenny Loggins, Foreigner, and more.

Stevensʼoriginal music, featuring his signature sound “AmeriRock,” has garnered attention from New York Post columnist Cindy Adams and The Aquarianʼs John Pfeiffer. His performances blend world-class musicianship with a dash of humor. Tickets are available at www.piermont.club.

es. An additional fee on milliondollar homes could generate as much as $616 million annually for affordable housing — which would start to generate the scale of resources needed to face the problem.

“Itʼs also crucial for New Jersey to continue funding the successful Down Payment Assistance and First-Generation Homebuyers programs at a minimum of $40 million annually. These programs — which are

showing more progress in shrinking the racial wealth gap than traditional first-time homeownership programs — are crucial in closing New Jerseyʼs racial wealth gap. We are glad to see the governorʼs focus on this program; itʼs critical to ensure this funding is in addition to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund — not instead of it.”

Fair Share Housing Center

Cherry Hill

Editorʼs note: A Superior

Court judge in Mercer County ruled Nov. 22, 2024 that Fair Share Housing Center (FSHC), a Cherry Hill nonprofit advocating for low-income families in affordable housing disputes, may intervene in Montvaleʼs lawsuit challenging New Jerseyʼs new affordable housing law. For more information see fairsharehousing.org, plaintiffs Local Leaders For Responsible Planning on Facebook, and our news archive at thepressgroup.net.

Plan before you plan to have a Dental Implant ASK THE DENTIST

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

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

Why do I make this point?

For several reasons:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PASCACK VALLEY

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

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Stressed? Take control of your well-being

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

People often ask me how to manage stress, anxiety, and the overwhelming pace of modern life. One of the best places to start is by taking a break from screens and social media. Constant exposure to digital media can overstimulate the nervous system, leading to heightened stress and anxiety. Consider unplugging from your phone, computer, and television for a set period each day to allow your brain to reset.

Additionally, paying attention to your diet can play a major role in overall well-being. Stimulants like

caffeine, high-sugar foods, and artificial additives can contribute to heightened stress levels. Staying hydrated with pure water—perhaps infused with natural ingredients like lemon, cucumber, ginger, or mint—can be a healthier alternative to sugary or artificially flavored drinks.

A diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods can help maintain stable energy levels and reduce inflammation, which is linked to various mental and physical health concerns. Shopping primarily in the fresh produce, meat, and dairy sections of the supermarket ensures you're consuming natural, nutrientdense foods.

Another key factor in managing stress is maintaining a healthy daily rhythm. Avoiding heavy meals and excessive screen time in

Advertiser Content

the evening can improve sleep quality. Exposure to bright screens before bed can interfere with natural sleep cycles, making it harder to unwind. If you work on a computer or use devices frequently, blue light filter glasses can help reduce eye strain and support better sleep.

Regular movement and exercise are also essential for mental clarity and emotional balance. Whether itʼs walking outside, stretching, or strength training, engaging in physical activity— even for a few minutes a day—can boost mood and cognitive function.

Additionally, spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities that bring joy—such as journaling, reading, gardening, or volunteering—can

foster a greater sense of well-being. To support those looking for a personalized approach to brain health, I am offering a special promotion: For the first seven people who call or text 646-221-6738, you will receive a high-quality Vitamin D bottle, a signed copy of my book Boost Your Brainpower: A Guide to Improving Your Memory and Focus, and a complete neurological evaluation at one of my offices for only $21 (normally $670). This evaluation will help identify key areas of improvement and natural solutions tailored to your specific needs.

At Kaplan Brain & Body, we take a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on natural strategies to optimize brain function, reduce stress, and enhance daily performance. To learn more about our services, visit www.kaplandc.com, follow our Instagram @kaplanbrainbody, or join our Facebook commu-

PARK RIDGE

nity at Kaplan Brain and Body for health tips and updates.

Tune in to my Boost Your Brain Power radio shows every Saturday at 8 a.m. on 970 AM and at 2 p.m. on 710 AM. You can also find helpful resources on my YouTube channel, Kaplan Brain and Body.

Take charge of your health— small, consistent improvements can lead to lasting positive change. Function better, feel better, live better!

Disclaimer:The opinions expressed in this item are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Northern Valley Press, The Press Group, or its partners. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to their health regimen.

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 development, 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.

FROM PAGE 1

one seventh-grader—defied the odds, battled fierce competition, and came within a whisker of toppling the defending champions.

The Fieldstone team, led by captain Daniel Lee and rounded out by Nathanael George, Ridham Bhalla, Gheelim Lee, and Madison Higgins, stepped onto the stage as newcomers among 16 formidable teams. Guiding them was Mrs. Cristina Bontia, a passionate science teacher at Fieldstone Middle School, whose coaching transformed a rookie squad into a force to be reckoned with.

“When I look at these students, I know Einstein would be proud of them,” Mrs. Bontia said, reflecting on their remarkable journey.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

K of C St. Patrick’s Dinner Dance

The Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 of Washington Township is hosting its annual St. Patrickʼs Day Dinner Dance on Saturday, March 15, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Council Hall, 79 Pascack Road.

Guests will enjoy a traditional corned beef and cabbage dinner with all the trimmings, including dessert and coffee. An open bar, featuring Guinness on tap, will be available for the entire evening.

The event features a performance by the Patsy McLoughlin Irish Dancers, a talented group of young Irish American dancers who aspire to compete in Ireland

every summer. In addition to enjoying their performance, attendees will be supporting their dance careers.

A highlight of recent years has been a special appearance by the Police Pipes and Drums of Bergen County, who bring the excitement of the New York City St. Patrickʼs Parade to the celebration before the night ends.

Music for the evening is provided by DJ Ryan Clarke, who will blend classic Irish tunes with a lively mix of music for dancing. Irish sing-alongs will also be part of the festivities.

Advance reservations are required, as seating is limited and

the event always sells out. Tickets are $100 per person (all-inclusive), and the deadline to purchase is March 10. Net proceeds from the event support local charities.

Chairmen Jim Dugan and Paul Kearney encourage attendees to organize a table of eight, 10, or 12 and secure tickets before the deadline. Call Jim at 201-6668199 or Paul at 201-316-7752

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

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

into the elimination bracket with their backs against the wall. What followed was nothing short of extraordinary. To claw their way back to the finals, Fieldstone had to win five consecutive matches—a grueling gauntlet that tested their knowledge, teamwork, and stamina. One by one, they dispatched Garnet Valley Middle School, French American School, Cedar Hill Prep School, Episcopal Academy, and William Annin Middle School. Each victory was a nail-biter, with buzzers sounding and answers flying in the rapidfire NSB format.

“We just kept pushing,” said Nathanael George. “Every round felt like a final.”

Each year, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) hosts the New Jersey Regional Science Bowl, a double-elimination contest with question-andanswer rounds in the fields of chemistry, biology, physics, astronomy, mathematics, along with general and earth sciences. Teams from middle and high schools, along with home-schoolers, are invited to enter.

The New Jersey Regional Science Bowl is open to all of New Jersey and surrounding areas that do not have a regional Science Bowl competition nearby (within 50 miles).

The top team from each regional competition wins an expense-paid trip to the national competition in Washington, D.C. Trophies are awarded to the first, second and third-place teams.

ʻWe just kept pushing…ʼ Fieldstoneʼs adventure began with a statement win in the first round, taking down BridgewaterRaritan Middle School—the 2024 runner-up—in a stunning upset.

“We knew it wouldnʼt be easy, but that win gave us confidence,” said captain Daniel Lee.

The euphoria was short-lived, however, as the second round pitted them against the juggernaut Princeton Charter School, the defending champs, who have dominated the regional for years. Despite a valiant effort, Fieldstone fell, dropping

Their Cinderella story culminated in a rematch against Princeton Charter in the championship game. The finals were a clash of titans, with Fieldstone trading points in a tightly contested battle that had spectators on edge. Though they ultimately took second place, falling just short of the title, their performance was a triumph in itself.

For a first-time team to reach the finals—beating out 14 other schools and nearly unseating a perennial champion—is a feat thatʼs turning heads in the community.

A Legacy in the Making Fieldstoneʼs run shines a spotlight on the power of teamwork, perseverance, and inspired coaching. Thanks to Mrs. Bontiaʼs guidance, these five students proved that even newcomers can make waves. As they set their sights on next yearʼs NSB, one thing is clear: Fieldstone Middle School is a name to watch. Princeton Charter may have claimed the trophy, but Fieldstone captured hearts—and a well-earned second-place finish thatʼs nothing short of heroic.

On its website, PPPL says itʼs “mastering the art of using plasma — the fourth state of matter — to solve some of the worldʼs toughest science and technology challenges. Thatʼs why public and private researchers worldwide look to PPPL for guidance on plasma science and related engineering challenges.”

—Cristina Bontia is a school staffer. Pramod George is a school parent.

Left to right: Fieldstone’s Fearless Five:Seventh-grade science teacher Cristina Bontia with Gheelim Lee, Madison Higgins, Daniel Lee, Nathanael George, and Ridham Bhalla. Via superintendent of schools Darren A. Petersen.

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

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

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 Completed applications will be accepted March 3–24, 2025. If a lottery is initiated, applications submitted after the March 24 deadline will not be eligible.

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

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.

Annual Memorial Day Parade

The Park Ridge American Legion is preparing for this yearʼs annual Tri-Boro Memorial Day Parade, Monday, May 26. A cherished tradition for over a century, the parade honors our nationʼs veterans and welcomes all community members to participate.

Individuals and groups interested in joining the parade are encouraged to email njpost153parade100@gmail.com or call the American Legion Post at 201-391-9754. The parade will assemble at the Montvale firehouse and step off at 10:30 a.m.

“Whether you are a child

who just joined the Brownies or Cub Scouts, an older resident looking to honor our veterans, or a veteran yourself, thereʼs a place for you,” organizers said. Following the parade, all are invited to Post 153 at 188 Ridge Ave. for fellowship and refreshments.

As Memorial Day approaches, members of the Jedh C. Barker American Legion Post encourage residents to display the American flag in honor of the freedoms we cherish. For more information or to get involved, contact the Park Ridge American Legion today.

The Community Care Grants program, governed and funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation, recognizes employees for their financial giving and volunteer service activities – including board service. Through this program, an employee can qualify for up to $2,000 per year in Community Care Grants. Once an employee has received a grant, they can choose which eligible charities theyʼd like to support by directing the funds to any of the approximately one million eligible charities.

Leveraging our strengths

While our primary motivation is the chance to help others, we also see participating in community leadership as an opportunity for employees to commit to a cause, issue, or organization where they have an affinity and a passion. This experience can help them leverage their strengths and expertise, develop new skills, and tackle new challenges.

Investment and Insurance Products are:

• Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency

• Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate

• Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested

On top of that, volunteering offers a variety of development opportunities, including hands-on learning, either on the job or through volunteer activities or 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.

Sunrise Garden Club offers tips on deer

The Sundial Garden Club hosts Deer-Resistant Plants and Garden Design by Paul Kubarych on Monday, March 3 at 4:30 p.m. at the Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave. Kubarych earned a bachelor's degree in environmental design (landscape architecture) from Rutgers University and has worked as a landscape architect for firms in New York City and

Rutherford. He is passionate about openspace preservation, habitat protection, and the use of native North American plants to help sustain local wildlife populations. His presentation will cover

key elements of garden design, with a focus on selecting deerresistant plants and shrubs to protect your landscape. With warmer weather around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan new garden spaces or additions to established ones.

All gardeners, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts, are welcome to attend this informative and timely event.

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

trucks

• Estimates are always FREE • License #02043A

• Frame Straightening • Restoration

• Custom Painting

• Dent & Scratch Removal

• Interior Repair

ERIC KOHLMEIER

PARK RIDGE

HILLSDALE

KUBARYCH

Renovations would create eight living units, each equipped with individual kitchenettes and bathrooms, as well as a library, playroom, laundry facilities, and classrooms for workshops. The organization is eager to relocate its offices, based in Ridgewood, to the Emerson site.

“In its nearly 40-year history, Family Promise has helped families from every single municipali-

ty in the county,” said Kate Duggan, executive director. “Certainly, during these times, any one of us could need the services that we offer. We feel that The Family Promise Center would be an asset in any town and are disappointed that the Land Use Board rejected our proposal.”

The hearing was the fourth for the application, submitted in April 2024. The organization, located in Ridgewood since 2011, had requested a use variance for the property, zoned RC (retail commercial), along with bulk variances for driveway width, number of parking spaces (44

required, 22 proposed), maximum illumination at the property line, and minimum distance for a freestanding sign.

The vote was 6-1. Voting to deny the application were Rich Taub, chair, and members Anthony Khiami, Michael Cimino, Paul Hulburt, Rich Worthington, and Dominick Aramini. Voting in favor was Eric Ciavaglia.

It was unclear why the board denied the application. Borough officials did not respond to requests for comment by press time. The LUB is due to issue a detailed resolution memorializing its decision later this month.

PARK FLOORING

PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING

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

Floor Scraping

Floor Scraping

Refinishing

The decision came despite the appeal of resident and Bergen County Commissioner Germaine Ortiz, who said at the hearing— the proposalʼs fourth—in part, “I urge you to support this initiative. When we lift up families in need, we strengthen our entire community.”

decision — itʼs a statement about the community we want to be. Itʼs about standing together to ensure no family, no child, falls through the cracks due to circumstances beyond their control.”

Promise empowers them to rebuild their lives.”

Family Promise told Pascack Press on Feb. 25 that it might formally appeal the denial after the Land Use Board approves its resolution of memorialization either March 6 or 20.

Mitchell Park (201) 694-9011

Mitchell Park (201) 694-9011

Mitchell Park (201) 694-9011

Mitchell Park (201) 694-9011

Mitchell Park (201) 694-9011

parkfloor@aol.com

parkfloor@aol.com

parkfloor@aol.com

parkfloor@aol.com

Ortiz said, “I understand concerns about the term homeless, but what we are really talking about are parents and children working tirelessly to rebuild their lives. They are not statistics; they are people with dreams, goals, and determination. This could happen to any of us.”

She said “Approving this application is more than a zoning

And, said Ortiz, “Family Promise helps hardworking parents who, despite doing everything right, face a housing crisis due to rising costs and unforeseen challenges. These families donʼt seek charity—they seek stability. Through job training, financial education, childcare, and transportation assistance, Family

Organization does good Duggan told Pascack Press, that the organization, whose programs include the Bridge Network, the Walk-in Dinner Program in Hackensack, Camp Lots of Fun, and the Youth Council for the Homeless, has raised $2 million toward its $6 million capital campaign for the proposed facility. She noted that only 2% of Family Promiseʼs funding comes from government grants.

The organization provides temporary housing and individualized support services, including case management, job training, financial education, transportation, and enrichment programs for children.

According to its application, the volunteer-driven nonprofit receives financial support from 164 corporations and 137 congregations. It operates with a staff of eight and a 10-member, hands-on board of trustees.

The application also highlights Family Promiseʼs recognition for excellence: “It is a recipient of the prestigious 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Candid Gold Seal of Transparency from Guidestar. From 2018–2023, Family Promise has either won the distinction of being named Best Non-Profit in Bergen County (three times) or ranked number two.”

Down, not out: Rendering of the Family Promise of Bergen County’s Emerson center, proposed at 436 Old Hook Road. The borough denied the land use, and the applicant is weighing its options, pending the borough’s memorialization of its decision later this month.

HOME & GARDEN

Tropical gardening in New Jersey? Absolutely

The Garden Club of Harrington Park will hold its next meeting on Thursday, March 6, at 7:30 p.m. upstairs at the Harrington Park Library, 10 Herring St. The event is open to all, and guests from any town are welcome.

The eveningʼs guest speaker

Site:

FROM PAGE 30

Family Promise had envisioned its Emerson center as being “located close to jobs, mass transportation, schools, shopping, parks, houses of worship, and other essential services that are important to our families.”

ʻInherently beneficialʼ

Duggan told Pascack Press that the new facility would improve whatʼs on site and said the applicant attorney, Mark Madaio, and planner both said during hearings that the social services facility was an “inherently beneficial use.”

Generally, inherently beneficial uses are given leeway in terms of meeting the exacting standards

will be John Beirne, curatorial director of Horticulture and Facilities at the Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit. His presentation, Tropical Gardening in N.J. — Yes, It Can Be Done!, will explore how to use tropical and subtropical plants, including indoor plants, to create bold and unexpected outdoor garden displays.

Beirne will share his passion for “audacious” tropicals and explain how these plants can thrive outdoors from spring

that are needed to qualify an application for a use variance. Duggan said a traffic study was done to show the low traffic impacts at a Family Promise transitional housing facility.

During hearings, the applicant said concerns were raised about illegal left-hand turns being made off of Old Hook Road into the driveway, and safety concerns about children having possible access to Old Hook Road.

Most temporarily homeless residents do not have cars, Duggan said. She said the second floor conversion to eight temporary housing units was planned to include six two-bedroom units and two one-bedroom units.

Duggan said most families stay a few months in transitional housing though some may stay up to a year before being ready to rejoin the workforce and afford market-rate lodging or housing.

through Novemberʼs first frost — offering a colorful alternative to traditional fall staples like mums and kale. Heʼll also discuss plant selection, care techniques, and design ideas for anyone looking to bring a bit of the tropics to their New Jersey garden. A Q&A session and refreshments will follow the program.

Beirne brings a wealth of horticultural experience to the event. He previously served as Superintendent of Horticulture for Wil-

And she said a police officer testified at one hearing that the Old Hook Road location was not safe for children due to the busy roadʼs proximity.

Duggan said it appeared the use variance was a major stumbling block to the applicationʼs approval. However, she said the temporary shelter provided by Family Promise was needed more and more by families in Bergen County, noting a study found that nearly 40% of families cannot afford a $400 unanticipated expense.

She said the cost of housing has increased 20% to 40% since the COVID pandemic, and that temporary homelessness “could happen to anyone, This is any one of us that weʼre talking about here.”

Though there were some board questions on whether the transitional housing project might

lowwood Arboretum and Bamboo Brook Nature Center and developed a horticultural therapy program for NewBridge Services. Beirne has taught horticulture for more than 20 years at the New York Botanical Garden and currently teaches at Sussex Community College. Early in his career, he interned at Wave Hill, a public garden in the Bronx, and worked as an assistant garden editor at Martha Stewart Omnimedia in New York City and Westport,

count towards affordable housing obligations, Duggan told us the state Department of Community Affairs told them that it had yet to develop criteria for evaluating transitional housing and possible affordable credits.

Despite the setback, Family Promise continues fundraising

Conn..

He lives in Sussex County with his wife, Hilary, and their children, where he enjoys gardening, photography, and stewarding a five-acre woodland on his property.

The Garden Club of Harrington Park welcomes all gardeners active or armchair — from any town. For more information, contact GCHP President Gerri Gibney at 201-768-2615 or visit gardenclubofharringtonpark.com.

efforts. Upcoming events include:

•Hike for Hope on May 4

•Annual Family Promise

Golf Outing on June 16

• Annual Gala on Oct. 15

For more information, visit bergenfamilypromise.org.

John Beirne

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 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

Tickets are $60 and sell out quickly.

•March 10: Digital presale for current school families (two tickets per family).

• March 16: In-person sales for Zion Lutheran Church mem-

bers.

•March 17: General public sales open online.

zionlutheranschool.org or write ZionWWfundraising@gmail.com.

Jamboree

FROM PAGE 1

Friday, Feb. 21 – Bogota Savings Bank Center, Hackensack —

The 68th Oscar F. Thompson Memorial Bergen County Jamboree final was a heavyweight showdown between top-seeded Bergen Catholic and No. 3 seed St. Joseph Regional.

The Crusaders came out on top, winning their 12th Jamboree championship with a 53-50 victory that extended their winning streak over St. Joeʼs to 11 games.

Bergen Catholic opened the scoring and held the lead for most of the first half, but St. Joeʼs stayed within striking distance.

The Green Knights tightened up defensively in the second quarter, outscoring the Crusaders 12-9 to pull within one at halftime, 24-23.

Momentum shifted in the third quarter. Midway through the period, St. Joeʼs reclaimed the lead after trailing at halftime, feeding off the energy in the arena.

The Green Knights maintained control and entered the final eight

minutes ahead 38-36, looking to pull off an upset.

The fourth quarter was a back-and-forth battle, with neither team able to create much separation. With under 90 seconds left, Bergen Catholic reclaimed the lead for good.

Trailing by three with 10 seconds to play, St. Joeʼs had a final shot to force overtime. The Green Knights got a clean look from beyond the arc, but the attempt hit the back of the rim as time expired, sealing the Crusadersʼ victory.

“We had a game plan, and we stuck to it—keep them under 55 points, and we did that,” St. Joeʼs head coach Dan Davis told Pascack Press. “But we had trouble on the defensive glass. Thatʼs where they beat us.”

Standout Performances:

This was a battle of talent

St. Joseph Regional:

• Senior guard Jahmir Joseph led all scorers with 20 points, adding four assists, two steals, and two three-pointers.

• Senior forward Anthony Pacciarelli contributed 11 points and eight rebounds.

Bergen Catholic: •Senior Declain Wucherpfennig and junior Jaden Brown each scored 15 points.

• Wucherpfennig added six rebounds, three assists, a block, and a steal.

• Brown chipped in two rebounds, three assists, and a steal.

• Junior Julius Avent finished with 10 points and seven rebounds.

JAMBOREE DRAMA: Green Knights head coach

a TO; Green Knights G 23 Jahmir Joseph

Armstrong receives the 68th Bergen County Jamboree

PaulSullivan4Photography.com. More weekend sports at thepressgroup.net

Students from the Emerson Jr/Sr. High School will perform the musical “Peter Pan,” based on Sir J.M. Barrieʼs classic tale and featuring an unforgettable score by Morris “Moose” Charlap and Jule Styne, with lyrics by Carolyn Leigh and Betty Comden and Adolph Green.

“Peter Pan” is one of the most beloved and frequently performed family favorites of all time. This high-flying Tony Award-winning musical, performed around the world, has delighted audiences for 60 years.

Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinkerbell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, begin a magical journey across the stars that none of them will ever forget. In the adventure of a lifetime, the travelers come face to face with a ticking crocodile, a band of bungling pirates and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook.

Featuring the iconic songs,

Iʼm Flying, Iʼve Gotta Crow, I Wonʼt Grow Up, and Never Never Land, and a rousing book full of magic, warmth and adventure, Peter Pan is the perfect show for the child in all of us…who

dreamed of soaring high and never growing up. In the Emerson Jr. Sr. High School production the actors will actually be flying! You have to see it to believe it.

Emersonʼs musical production is co-directed and choreographed by Bill and Lisa Ullman. Shows will be held:

•Friday, March 7 at 7:30

p.m.

•Saturday, March 8 at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

•Sunday, March 9 at 2 p.m.

• Friday , March 14 at 7:30 p.m.

• Saturday, March 15 at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Performances are at Emerson Jr./Sr. High School, 131 Main St. Adult tickets are $20, Child/student tickets are $10 in advance and at the door.

The 2 p.m. Sunday, March 9 matinee is available to Emerson resident senior citizens free of charge.

You can purchase tickets at payschoolsevents.com/events/det ails/37884. Online ticket sales end 90 minutes before each performance. Matinee performances are general admission, no assigned seating. For more information visit emersonschools.org

Left to right: Audrey Riquelme, Olivia Karathomas, James Nienstedt, Madison Ostroff, and Diana Tamayo. Photo credit Haley Karathomas.

Dan Davis goes over the final play during

pours it on; BC Crusaders head coach Billy

trophy. Photos: Paul R. Sullivan —

PARK RIDGE ROTARY

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.

WESTWOOD

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.

Application Details

The 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 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

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.

P.O. Box

or

Susana GIUDICE

OBITUARIES

May she rest in peace, reunited with her beloved Manuel, and forever watching over those she loved.

Michael David WILSON

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Susana Giudice, who left this world on Feb. 18, 2025, at 93. Susana was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend, whose kindness and warmth touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

Born on July 9, 1931, Susana lived a life filled with love, strength, and devotion to her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Manuel Giudice, with whom she shared many cherished years.

She is survived by her daughters, Gabrielle Whited (husband Kenneth Whited) and Diana Maurer, who were the light of her life. She took great pride in her grandchildren—Brandon Whited (wife Nicole Whited), Justin Whited, Melanie Whited, Connor Maurer, and Ashley Maurer—whose lives she enriched with wisdom, love, and endless support.

Susana will be remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering resilience, and the deep love she had for her family. Her presence will be greatly missed but forever treasured in the hearts of those who knew her.

A service to honor Susanaʼs life will be held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church 400 Maywood Ave., Maywood on Saturday, March 15 at 11 a.m.

Michael David Wilson died Saturday, Feb. 22, in Hackensack. Born Aug. 23, 1950, in Ann Arbor, Mich. and raised in Staten Island, N.Y. He was the son of the late William A. Wilson and MaryAnn Wilson (née Lake). Mike was a graduate of Xavier High School and New York University. He received his law degree from Seton Hall Law School and retired from Hill Rivkins LLP after practicing maritime law for over 35 years. His career took him around the world, where he indulged in his love for different cultures, music and cuisines. He often brought his children and wife along on his travels so that he could share his love for certain cities.

Mike's pursuit of learning never ended. You could always find him reading a new book, doing Sudoku puzzles or breezing through the New York Times Sunday crossword. He was an avid Yankees fan, loved riding around in his 1961 Corvette, and enjoyed good food with family and friends.

Surviving are his wife, Carol Wilson; daughter, Lauren WilsonPolicke, and her husband, Jonathan;

sons William and his fiancé e, Marissa; Andrew and his significant other, Dana; sisters, Maureen Calle of Spain and Elizabeth Ann Quinn of New Jersey and his beloved dog, Molly. His brother Thomas and sister Barbara predeceased him. Services will be private.

Donald Frederick KRUSE

Donald Frederick Kruse, born Dec. 25, 1929, in Orange, N.J. was the son of Jessica Parker Pollard and William Charles Kruse. He grew up in South Orange alongside his younger siblings, Carl and Elizabeth.

After graduating from Cornell University in 1952, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served at the Army Medical Center in Indiana until 1955.

Following his military service, Donald began his professional career at Union Carbide in New Jersey, later transitioning to Exxon, formerly Esso Corp. His career with Exxon led to a threeyear relocation to Brussels, where he worked as a consultant specializing in butyl rubber technology. He retired in the early 1990s and enjoyed a fulfilling retirement, traveling extensively and taking numerous cruises to destinations across all continents.

Donald had a lifelong passion for astronomy and was an active member of the North Jersey Astronomers Society in Cranford, where he served as president.

He is survived by his siblings, Carl Kruse and Elizabeth Kruse, as well as his close friend, Dawn Clancy. He is also mourned by his nephew, Thomas Russell Kruse, and his family, including his wife, Elizabeth McCartney, and their two children, Kristin and William (Billy) Kruse. He will be dearly missed by his niece, Katharine Kruse Sicilia, her husband, Tony, and their three children: Samantha Madan, Anthony Sicilia, and Jennifer Sauter. Donald was also a proud great-great-uncle to Robert Townes Madan and Penelope Katharine Madan.

Donaldʼs family, including his cherished group of nieces and nephews, who affectionately referred to him as Zio, fondly remembers the many holidays and family celebrations they spent together.

His last five years he was cared for by Theresa, who was not only his caretaker but became a wonderful friend.

At 95 Donald leaves behind a legacy of love and fond memories, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Let the family know you care by leaving your condolences, favorite memories and thoughts and prayers on the Tribute Wall via Legacy.com.

A nnamae BRENNAN

Annamae Brennan of Mantoloking, formerly of Hillsdale, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. She is survived by her children Sharon Slutzky and Tracy Lee Brennan, and son-in-law Paul Conte.

She was a loving and nurturing grandmother to Cole, Alex, Isabella and Julian, all who loved to visit her and her loving husband John at the “Christmas House” in Hillsdale and especially at “the Beach House” at Bay View Shores, Mantoloking.

Annamae was passionate about helping her special education students at Meadowbrook Elementary School in Hillsdale. She loved and nurtured each and every child she worked with.

She is predeceased by the love of her life, John “Jack” Brennan and her daughter Tara, whom she missed enormously.

She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, friend, neighbor, and a “good cooker,” most wildly celebrated for her highly coveted whiskey cake, which she lovingly baked for every special occasion.

The family received guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Monday, Feb. 24. A celebration of her life and faith followed. Interment at George Washington

PT — Liquor Store. Northvale area. Approx. 15 hr/wk. Eves, wknds, holidays. Cashier/stock. Strong org skills, some deliveries. 201-370-8090.

POLICE OFFICER. The Englewood Cliffs P.D. is hiring full-time officers. For more info, visit the Borough website at https://englewoodcliffsnj .org or visit our headquarters at 10 Kahn Terrace, Englewood Cliffs, NJ. Application deadline 3/5/25. EOE.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D Part-time office work in Tenafly. Computer experience and references required. Call 917-3741033.

Twp. Of Washington DPW Seeking 1-2 PartTime/Seasonal Workers Up to 29 hours a week, D.L. required, must be 18 years +. Contact DPW: (201) 664-3268 or Email: DPW@twpofwashington.us

P W WAANNTTEED D

Household help needed. Person needed to clean & cook in my Montvale Home 20 hours/week, $20/hour. Flexible hours. To apply, e-mail Katherine at KATD7432@GMAIL COM

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE - Oh Hold St. Jude, Apostle & Martyr, great in virtue & rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage. In time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart & humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present & urgent petition. In return, I promise to make your name known & cause you to be invoked. St. Jude pray for us & all who invoke your aid, Amen. Say 3 Our Father’s, 3 hail Mary’s, 3 Glory Be to the Father. Publication must be promised. This novena has never been known to fail. L.P.

Sr. Product & Service Development Engineer for BMW of North America, LLC in Woodcliff Lake, NJ to perform work that is essential to the successful and efficient operation of the technology between the US and Germany for BMW of North America. Requires: Bachelor's degree in Electronic Engg, Mechanical Engg, Business Info Sys., or related scientific field (willing to accept forgn edu equiv.) + 5 yrs’exp in Sr Product & Service Development Engineer or related occupation (engineering-related project management or personnel supervision experience). Or, alternatively: a Master s + 3 yrs’ exp. Email resume to karen.cochran@ bmwsharedservices.com.

Reference Position Number: 2400007H.

Park Ave Hair in Park Ridge is looking for a Hairstylist or Barber with some following. Call (201) 930-0034 Ask for Vinny.

P PRRAAYYEER R

BOROUGH OF EMERSON, DEPT. OF PUBLIC WORKS, LABORER/DRIVER/ TREE CARE OPERATOR needed. Visit www.emersonnj.org/jobs for details and application.

APRAYER TO THEVIRGIN MARYTHATIS

NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL- Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, blessed mother of the son of God, immaculate virgin: assist me in my necessity. O star of the sea, help me and show me, here you are my mother. Oh, holy Mary, mother of God, queen of heaven and earth: I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succour me in this necessity (state the request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy mother, I place this cause in your hands. Amen, Holy Spirit, You who solve all problems, light all the roads so that I can attain my goal. You who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget all the evil against me. I want, in this short prayer, to thank You for things as I confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you in eternal glory.

Thank you for your mercy toward me and mine.

*After the prayer recite 9 Hail Mary’s and also you can include the “Queen of the most Holy Rosary, Pray for Us.” Recite this prayer for 3 consecutive days. After the 3rd day your prayer will be answered. You must promise to publish this prayer after your intention was answered.

County, excellent references required. Call Anthony at (973) 652-1293

for an Elderly Person. Live in 7 days per week. Cooking, Light cleaning. Loving, kind, caring 22 years experience, Refs. Available. Call Nataliya @ 201-566-8166.

Team of Polish women will clean your home, office, or apartment. Over 25 years experience. Call Teresa at 201-679-5081. S SEERRV

Senior female, 60s, quiet, clean non-smoker, nondrinker, seeks room, preferably in house with same. Contact: hellobergen@gmail.com or 551207-6895.

Obits:

FROM PAGE 38

Memorial Park in Paramus.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made via check to Meadowbrook FFA with Annamae's name in the memo line and sent to Meadowbrook FFA 50 Piermont Ave., Hillsdale, NJ 07642

Kathleen M. BONNER

Kathleen M. Bonner, 57, of Hillsdale, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025. She was born in New York, N.Y., to Robert and Mary Ann Elder.

Kathleen graduated from Holy Name Medical Center School of Nursing and was a dedicated nurse for almost 25 years. She was an active member in her parish, St. John the Baptist, for over 50 years and devoted her life to her family, caring for others, and her faith.

Kathleen is survived by her husband of 31 years, John Bonner Jr., and children Brendan (Clara), Emily, and Caroline. She is also survived by her siblings Jennifer (Rob), Robert (Danielle), Tricia (Jeff), and her in-laws Beth (George), Michael (Mandi), Laura (Brian), Mary Allison (Lyon) and many nieces and nephews.

Kathleen is preceded in death by her mother, Mary Ann Elder, her mother-in-law, Virginia Bonner, and her father-in-law, John Bonner

A visitation for Kathleen was held on Sunday, Feb. 23 at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkmack Road, Westwood. A funeral Mass took place on Monday, Feb. 24 at St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, 69 Valley St., Hillsdale.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions can be donated to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital at stjude.org.

Gloria FISHER

Gloria Fisher (née Wisinski), 89, passed away on Feb. 17, 2025. She was born on July 29, 1935. Beloved wife of 56 years to the late Robert “Bob” Fisher (2014).

Of Washington Township, she was a devoted mother to Carol Weber and her husband Ernie, Karen Schneider and her husband Jeff, and Joan Farrissey and her late husband, Steve. She was “Grammy” to her five grandchildren, Nicole Farrissey, Sean Conlon (and his wife, Nicole), Kasey McBain (and her husband, Kevin), Bob Schneider and Dan Schneider and “GG” to her three great grandchildren, Malcom McBain, Wesley McBain and Parker Conlon. She was predeceased by her parents Frances (née Shunter) and

William Wisinski. She was born and raised in Little Ferry, and graduated from Lodi High School where she met Bob. Gloria could always be found watching her daughters play softball and later watching her grandchildren play softball, soccer, volleyball and basketball.

Ma Fish, as she was known by her daughtersʼfriends, was always in the stands on a field or in a gymnasium cheering for her family. She was also an avid N.Y. Mets fan (she really disliked the Yankees), a N.Y. Giants fan and a N.Y. Rangers fan with season tickets at Madison Square Garden.

Burial service will be privately held. A memorial service celebrating Gloriaʼs life will be held in the spring.

José Augustin FERNANDEZ

José Agustin, 73, of Westwood and the Dominican Republic, passed away on Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, surroundedby his three beloved children and loving family. Born in 1951 in Boca de Bao, Dominican Republic, José emigrated to the United States at 15.

José is survived by his cherished children, Sindia Fernandez (Michael Hannigan), Jessica Fernandez (Hamie Kaffaie) and Jonathan Fernandez, as well as his granddaughter, Viola Hannigan.

He is also mourned by his 10 siblings who he held dear: Martina del Carmen, Ramona, Adriano, Leonardo Antonio, Rosa, Juan Quirino, Manuel, Brijida, Rafael and Australia as well as his ex-wife Carmen Fernandez who he still shared a special bond with. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Juan Crisostomo Fernandez and Inocencia Dolores Matista.

José had a passion for good jokes, the Mets, and treasured family gatherings filled with food, music, and dancing. He welcomed everyone with open arms and had an extraordinary love for cooking, always going above and beyond to nourish those around him. He and his brothers did this for over 30 years at their beloved Pizzeria + Restaurant, Italian Time in Waldwick.

José will be greatly missed by both his family and community. The family received guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Feb. 21. A Mass celebrating Joséʼs life and faith was held at St. Andrew R.C. Church in Westwood on Feb. 22.

Memorial contributions can be made in Joséʼs name to the Dementia Society of America — dementiasociety.org/donate — and/or the

World Central Kitchen, wck.org/donate.

Becker-FuneralHome.Com

G eorge C. SCHNEIDER

George C. Schneider, 90, peacefully passed away on Feb. 18, 2025. Georgeʼs life was dedicated to his family, his friends, and the thousands of students he taught and coached throughout his career as an educator.

He was married to the love of his life in 1956, his late wife and high school sweetheart, Peggy (Margaret), who passed at the young age of 72. They were married for 51 years, loved to travel together, and spend time with their loved ones.

He was the devoted father to daughter Victoria Reimlinger (Richard) and sons, Craig Schneider (Barbara) and Christopher Schneider (Lorraine).

He was a loving grandfather to Mark Reimlinger (Kathleen), Casey Bailey (Matthew), Jack Schneider, Victoria Romano, Kevin Romano, Nicole Carter (Paul), Kyle Schneider (Amy), and Jennifer Schneider (Kevin).

He was proud to be a greatgrandfather to Henry & Catherine (Reimlinger), Madison (Carter), Quinn (Schneider), and Mason (Romano).

His family was grateful for the opportunity to say goodbye and visit him in his final days.

George was born March 15, 1934 in Glassboro, N.J. to George and Olga. He grew up in South Jersey and graduated from Glassboro High School, where he was a three-sport athlete. Always a big lover of sports, he enjoyed playing football, basketball, and baseball— though baseball was the game he loved most! George then went to Catawba College in Salisbury, North Carolina, where he started all four years as a pitcher on the baseball team.

George and Peggy got married in 1956 while George was still in college. In his senior year of col-

lege, George and Peg welcomed their first child, Vicki. From college, George was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals to their Double-A league team before stepping down to start a family and move back north. Shortly after, they moved to North Jersey, continuing to grow their family with the additions of Craig and later Chris.

George landed his first teaching job as a physical education teacher at East Orange High School. The next year, he got a teaching job at Tenafly High School as a physical education/health teacher, driverʼs education teacher, and coach. George loved being an educator. He enjoyed his time teaching and coaching at Tenafly High School from 1963 to 1989. He was the varsity baseball coach at Tenafly High School from 1969 to 1984.

During that time, he taught and coached with some legendary people including Red Littler, Buzz Firkser, Jim Hunt, Larry Morgan, John “Moon” Mullin, Ed Strohmeyer, Don Miller, and his two coworkers turned life-long best friends, Terry Burke and John OʼMalley. He was also blessed to coach and teach multiple wonderful students, including the famous Ed Harris. George would hire Ed in the summer to help him do painting and carpentry projects. Ed has a special place in the hearts of the Schneider family; he always made time for Coach Schneider and Peggy over the years. Some other great baseball players he coached were David Keil, David Miller, Bob Martin, Steve Prato, Delio (Lefty) Guerra, and his best seasons were the 1976 & 1977 teams.

George gave up coaching football at Tenafly High School to coach his two sons—Craig and Chris. He was a legend within the Park Ridge Football and Baseball Associations. One of his biggest impacts on the program was taking over the fieldhouse equipment room, rearranging old equipment, and buying new equipment for the football and baseball teams.

In the late ʼ60s and early ʼ70s, Park Ridge had only played in an eight-man football league, but George got the association to join the Northern Valley Football League

in 1974, where they were finally able to play eleven-man football. George loved coaching his sons and their friends over the years, especially coaching the sixththrough-ninth-grade heavyweight boys football team with his good friend Dana Kissack, who coached the sixth-through-ninth-grade lightweight boys football team.

In addition to George loving being a teacher and coach, he also enjoyed his hobby-turned-sidebusiness of carpentry, painting, and contracting. He loved to fix, make, and build things, working with and for many wonderful people over the years. He could often be found working in his garage on a project for a friend or neighbor. He had a master crew of great men that worked for him, such as Terry and Bob Burke, Eric DeGrigorio, and John OʼMalley. His favorite days on the job site were spent working alongside his son Chris, as many in the community got to know George through his sonʼs construction company—GC Schneider Construction Co.

George was blessed to have spent a lot of time with his family, celebrating birthdays and milestones over the years with his kids and grandkids. He especially enjoyed supporting his grandchildren in their academics and athletics—attending countless sporting events and graduations. He loved to brag about his grandchildren and all their accomplishments.

George will be missed and remembered for his great smile, blue eyes, beautiful head of white hair, helpfulness, kindness, knowledge of sports, carpentry skills, and years of teaching, coaching, and driverʼs education courses.

God bless George C. Schneider. Thanks for all the great memories!

Viewing services were held at Robert Spearing Funeral Services in Park Ridge on Friday, Feb. 21. Funeral Mass was at Our Lady of Mercy RC Church, Park Ridge on Saturday, Feb. 22.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of George to Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance of Park Ridge, P.O. Box 204, Park Ridge, NJ 07656.