Pascack Press 4.24.23

Voting allies

‘AN ELOQUENT MIXTURE’ ‘AN ELOQUENT MIXTURE’

WRHS families host teens, chaperones from France

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

‘I REALIZED I HADTO GIVEBACK’

Former resident going huge in fourth fundraiser concert against epilepsy; show in Teaneck April 29

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Itʼs going to be epic. Former resident Matt Perrone is bringing his musical fundraiser on epilepsy — EpiPalooza IV— home to the Garden State.

WESTWOOD

ARBOR FESTTREE PLANTING REVELS

Shade Tree Advisory Committee, DPW partner on events April 25–29

Westwood residents, thanks in advance for being a part of 2023 Westwood Arbor Fest tree planting celebrations.

March.WRHS world language advisor Jeff Welfel says plans are in the works to have local students stay with host families in France. Jeff Welfel photo

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

WESTWOOD

REGIONAL

students here taking French in grades 9–12, and the APSpanish class.

World language instructor

and out of school together.

The show is at Debonair Music Hall in Teaneck on April 29. His band (The Real Matt Perrone Band) is playing along with Elizabeth & the Catapult, a special acoustic set from Iron Roses, Toy Canon, and more. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on two tickets to “Hamilton” on Broadway, with a meet and greet.

Doors open at 6 p.m.

Perrone, an information technology professional, lives in Charlotte N.C., with his daughters, age 8 and 5, but grew up on Cleveland Avenue in the Township of Washington. He attended George Washington Elementary School and then Westwood Regional High School, class of 1995. He taught at Bergen Catholic High School for four years.

R REELLAATTEED D

S Seee e i innssiidde e for more towns’ Arbor Day events

In 2022, the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee in conjunction with Westwoodʼs Department of Public Works planted 37 trees in front of resident houses, three trees in Gritman Park, and three trees in Veterans Park.

One of the trees in Gritman Park is a seedling from the historic See ARBOR on page 35

High School families hosted 23 students and four chaperones from Montpellier, France March 21–27.

The local and French students participated in several activities, including a field trip to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty The experience was open to all

Jeff Welfel tells Pascack Press the French students — from Coll ège Les Garrigues (Garrigues Middle School) — shadowed their Westwood Regional peers to observe typical days in an American school, and that the French and Westwood students participated in activities both in

CHEERS TO THEM!

PAGE 19

Other highlights included a pizza party on March 21 at the arrival of the French pen-pals, and an international pot-luck food fest on March 22.

The French contingent stayed with 18 Westwood/Township host families, with two American teachers hosting two males and two females in their

Continued on page 36

He tells Pascack Press, “When I was 16, a sophomore in high school, 1993, I was diagnosed with epilepsy after having two seizures. I have been fortunate to find the right medication.”

Poignantly, he recalls on Instagram, “I canʼt remember the feelings but Iʼm sure I was scared. Having CT

See CONCERT on page 34

If you lived in the Pascack Valley around 1900, one of the folks you might have seen out and about, enjoying a lovely spring, was Lulu Doerries, on her bicycle.

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

The WTW Cardinal Competition Cheer Team just finished a dazzling 2022–2023 season, including a first-place win at Just Cheer All Stars.

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley celebrates its spring season on May 9. PAGE 14

Nearly 90 students from Westwood,the Township of Washington,and their pen-pals from Montpellier,France, visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty in

PASCACK PRESS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Call to join county fiber network

To the editor: “ BERGEN COUNTY has built a first-of-its-kind private fiber optic network throughout the entire county. The network offers every Bergen County municipality their own dedicated fiber optic connection to the internet without the

hassle of a traditional ISP.” bergencountyfiber.com

This offer is not for residents, only municipal governments. Pricing starts at $100 per month. The county is offering up to 10 times the speed of service for a fraction of what the Borough of Hillsdale is currently paying.

The county has completed the fiber network to all county facilities and is waiting to hear from each of the 70 municipalities that comprise Bergen County. Our schools alone could realize $200,000 a year in savings. The service could be extended to our DPW, the police and fire departments, Stonybrook, the library, and the board of education. Anyplace our public entities are currently paying for internet service, the county could be acting as our high-speed low-cost provider.

They offer 24/7 support with no data caps, no throttling, and no installation costs. The money we would save in the first year alone would cover Hillsdaleʼs one-time extension of fiber coverage to our municipal facilities beyond Borough Hall.

The County Executive has been pushing this service to municipalities for months. The longer we wait, the greater the likelihood other municipalities will get ahead of us in the queue. This isnʼt going to happen overnight. Itʼs going to require educating our elected officials and key municipal employees, passing a shared service agreement, planning in coordination with the county, going through the permit process, coordinating with municipal agencies and departments. Every day we wait is money and

NOTE: Letter submission deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday for the following Monday’s paper. Publication not guaranteed. Subject to editing. Email topascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

time wasted, while we continue to pay for an inferior service.

Mayor and council, the B.A… someone in Borough Hall… Please start the process. What are we waiting for, Hillsdale?

Michael Sheinfield Hillsdale Democratic candidate for mayor

Plane noise?

Better to ban leaf blowers

To the editor: P ASCACK PRESS has had a few articles about the mayors of our Pascack Valley towns working

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

Knights go big with four $1K scholarships

The scholarship committee of Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 will award another three scholarships from the James Picarella Memorial Trust Fund and one Mother Seton Scholarship. Each scholarship is for $1,000.

Applicants for the scholarships must be Township residents graduating high school this year. Non-residents who have a father, brother, grandfather, or uncle as a member of Mother Seton Council #5427 in good standing for at least one year prior to the date of

the application may also apply.

The principal criteria for selecting the winners:

• The award must be applied toward tuition for a full-time student at any accredited institution of higher education: college, business, nursing, or technical school.

• The award will be in one payment to the student upon proof of enrollment.

• Although scholastic ability is of great importance, we will also consider financial need, community involvement, and extracurricular activities.

• The application must be completed by the student in its entirety. Leave no blanks. If something does not apply, say so. A high school transcript must accompany the completed application. An incomplete application

will be disqualified. Applications are available at the Westwood High School and Immaculate Heart Academy Guidance Offices, the school websites, and the Knights of Columbus Council. Completed applications must be in a sealed envelope addressed to Mr. Paul Elterlein, Scholarship Chairman, Knights of Columbus, 79 Pascack Road, Twp. of Washington 07676, no later than May 15, 2023. The scholarships will be presented at the Awards Night Meeting, Tuesday, June 13.

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

MUNICIPALBUDGETTABUP $62.05 FORAVERAGEHOMEOWNER

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

MONTVALE

Montvaleʼs proposed $21.9 million 2023–2024 municipal budget shows a nearly 2% increase in property tax rates, costing an average homeowner an extra $62.05 yearly versus last yearʼs average $58.33 increase, said the borough administrator.

A final presentation and hearing will be held at the April 25 council meeting on the introduced $21,897,936 budget, said Borough Administrator Joseph Voytus. The 1.9% annual increase amounts to approximately $309,000 over the 2022 budget.

The 2023 amount to be raised by local taxation is $14,030,935, which includes $13,186,076 in municipal taxes and $844,859 in local library taxes, which are mandated by the state.

Voytus told Pascack Press the largest contributing factors were approximately $240,000 in employee benefits (pension and insurance), $325,000 attributable to the land purchase at 127 Summit

Ave., and $160,000 increase in the cost of utilities.

He said, “We also had to contend with a drop in construction department revenue and increased capital costs for the Department of Public Works.”

The DPW is shared between River Vale and Montvale, the only shared-service DPW in the Pascack Valley.

Mayor Michael Ghassali, who also serves as Hillsdaleʼs full-time borough administrator, sent out an update noting, “Our insurance and retirement benefits increased by $240,000, utilities costs increased by $160,000, and the waste pickup increased by about 10%. We also made a conscious and calculated decision to purchase selected properties in town as part of a strategy to manage the tendency toward over-development in the borough. We purchased 127 Summit Ave. for $4.5 million and will be making an announcement shortly on another major property purchase.”

Ghassali added, “Despite these costs and investments, our municipal taxes continue to remain very stable with a healthy surplus. With the added ratables, our home

values increased, our revenue increased, and our schools are now benefiting from over two million dollars more per year in tax revenue.”

Ghassali said he planned to hold a Facebook Live and Zoom meeting within days to announce “our next property purchase, its cost and our investment strategy” moving forward.

In other news, the council recently endorsed the Bergen County Commissionersʼrecommendation to decrease the speed limit on Grand Avenue between Spring Valley Road and Chestnut Ridge Road to 40 mph from 45 mph.

As a result of “a series of accidents” on Grand Avenue, the county conducted a speed limit evaluation on Grand Avenue between Pascack Road and Chestnut Ridge Road.

As a result, they recommended that speeds be reduced between Spring Valley and Chestnut Ridge roads. The Shoppes at DePiero Farm and new offices, retail and residential buildings lie between the two streets where speeds will be lowered.

Fraud prevention seminar April 26

Thrive at Montvale is holding an event with Valley National Bank this week about fraud prevention and awareness for older adults. The Bergen County Prosecutor and Mayor Michael Ghassali will be there.

Will you?Join in for discussion about common fraud scams, how to avoid them, and what to do if you become a victim.

The event is Wednesday, April 26, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at Thrive at Montvale Senior Living, 110 Summit Ave. Itʼs free to attend.

Guest speakers:

•Richard Vitale, head of

investigations and assistant director of fraud risk management, Valley National Bank

•Brian Golden, senior vice president, director of fraud risk management, Valley National Bank

•Mark Musella, Bergen County Prosecutor

• Thrive at Montvale seniors who can speak about their experiences.

Topics covered:

•New fraud schemes, tactics, techniques, and technologies that target older adults, including identity theft, investment scams, online scams, and others.

•Tips on how to identify warning signs of fraudulent activities, and how to avoid falling victim to scams.

•Practical advice that older adults can use to protect themselves from fraud and scams, and what to do if you become a victim of fraud.

•How to protect personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account information, and credit card numbers, from theft and fraud.

RSVP to (201) 201-8815 or emailrsvp@thriveatmontvale.com. For more information visit https://thrivesl.com/montvale/events

The county asked the council to pass a resolution in support of the lowered speed limit. The borough consulted with its engineer and police chief before approving

the lowered speed limit on Grand Avenue, which is a county road. The council approved the lowered limit unanimously 6-0 on March 14.

Bckintime... Bckintime...

The Pascack Historical Society Spring Curiosity Sale is set for Saturday and Sunday,April 29 and 30,from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m.

PHS Spring Curiosity Sale

April 29–30

PARKRIDGE

The Pascack Historical Society Spring Curiosity Sale is set for Saturday and Sunday, April 29 and 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its museum, 19 Ridge Ave. Admission is free. The rain-or-shine event takes place indoors and out.

A pre-sale for Pascack Historical Society members is Friday, April 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. You must have paid your 2023 PHS dues for early admission. New memberships will also be accepted that day, starting at $30 for an individual.

This sale has become known for its unusual and one-of-a-kind items. Guests will find antiques, collectibles, crystal, hundreds of pieces of vintage and costume jewelry, handbags, housewares, small furniture, pottery, primitives, antique books, china, silver, glassware, vintage toys, mirrors

See PHS on page 7

When women worked a revolution

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS PARKRIDGE

THEWEATHER is warming in our little corner of the world, and people are getting outside more. If you lived in the Pascack Valley around 1900, one of the familiar faces you might have seen out and about was Lulu Doerries, pictured here.

With her straw hat and a skirt featuring a hemline raised to calf length, Luluʼs outfit is typical of what a woman would have worn for bicycle riding at the turn of the century. This was decades before it became acceptable for a woman to wear pants.

Lulu was the daughter of German-born Ferdinand Doerries, a Park Ridge farmer, and wife Katharine. The fifth child, Lulu was born around 1886.

While bicycles are a mode of transportation we take for granted in 2023, at the turn of the 20th century they were still a rather new development.

Prior to the 1880s, the “penny-farthing” or “ordinary” (the quintessential “old-timey” bicycle with a large front wheel and small back

wheel) was the only option available. It was fast, but unsafe—if the rider came upon a bad patch of road (and remember, these are days before paved streets), she could easily be thrown over the large front wheel and end up with two broken wrists trying to break the fall. Accordingly, the penny-farthing was primarily a pastime for adventurous young men.

Then in the 1880s came a game-changing invention in the world of cycling: the chaindriven “safety bicycle,” which had two wheels of the same size and looked much like our modern bicycle. With a drastically smoother and safer ride, the bicycle became popular among women and men of all economic backgrounds for both transportation and recreation. By the mid-1890s, America was fully engulfed in a bicycle craze.

The bicycle was a crucial component in Americaʼs gradual shift toward gender equality. As bicycles became safer and cheaper, women gained an unprecedented level of freedom and mobility

The suffragist Susan B. Anthony wrote in 1896, “I think [the bicycle] has done more to emancipate women than any one thing in the world. I rejoice every time I see a woman ride

The bicycle had a significant impact on the lives of women. The greatest impact the bicycle had on the societal role of women occurred in the 1890s during the bicycle craze that swept American and European society.Today,bicycling is ubiquitous here. Future

by on a bike. It gives her a feeling of selfreliance and independence the moment she takes her seat; and away she goes, the picture of untrammeled womanhood.”

— Kristin Beuscher is president of Pascack Historical Society

If you lived in the Pascack Valley around 1900, one of the familiar faces you might have seen out and about was Lulu Doerries,above.

Sidewalks on hold; committee to consider options

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

Residents of Wayne Place and White Birch Road were told by officials April 17 that no decision was yet made on whether the township planned to install sidewalks on their streets, which are often jammed with cars, parents and students during nearby Washington Elementary School dropoff and pickup times.

Rwo residents — one from each nearby street — said that sidewalks were a “Band-Aid” to

the problem and also presented “environmental challenges” by adding more impervious surface to the area.

Council President Desserie Morgan told residents that an advisory committee composed of local and school officials — including the police chief, administrator, school officials, Westwood Regional school board members, and residents — would likely be formed and come up with recommendations to improve traffic and student flow during morning dropoff and afternoon pickup times.

Morgan said she recently met

with neighborhood residents and said she was “cool to the whole idea of sidewalks.” She said the safety issue there with students walking in streets and cars jamming side roads “doesnʼt necessarily equal sidewalks” and noted the “proper due diligence on what is needed” must be done before moving forward.

She said that the soon-to beproposed municipal budget does not include funds for sidewalks.

Ellen Dogali, 745 Wayne Place, said there were “alternatives to sidewalks” and that Wayne Place and White Birch Road residents want to discuss them. She

said “sidewalks are a Band-Aid and not a solution” noting that accidents can occur on sidewalks as well as on streets.

She suggested allowing parents to park vehicles, maybe temporarily at Bethany Community Center, while dropping or picking up children. She said this would help eliminate parking on the side streets.

She also suggested purchasing 450 Pascack Road, a 3.2-acre mostly wooded parcel squeezed between Washington Elementary School, Memorial Field, and Ridgewood Boulevard East. She said the area occupied by a house

and barn could be repurposed for school and field parking.

Thetownship bid $430,000 for 450 Pascack Road in mid2021, under threat of condemnation, and is believed to still be negotiating for it. Lately, council members have expressed mixed support for its purchase, while Mayor Peter Calamari supports its purchase.

Resident Leonard Sabino, 747 White Birch Road, also a Planning Board member, said he wanted to get hold of reports previously mentioned by Police Chief Richard Skinner, including

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

SOCLOSE! DRAINAGEBASINNEARPROPOSED MALLSAIDSHYOF 50-ACRETHRESHOLD

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

The township engineer said the unnamed tributary that runs behind Meisten Street homes — and behind a proposed 17,100square-foot retail plaza near the Pascack Road–Washington Avenue nexus — is not a regulated waterway by the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) because it drains an area “definitively less” than 50 acres.

Township Engineer Kevin Boswell told the council and residents on April 17 that the tribu-

tary to the Musquapsink Brook was not a Category One — or a state-regulated — waterway, because it did not drain an area of 50 acres or more.

He said two calculations done by Boswell using data available on the state Department of Environmental Protection website showed the drainage area less than 50 acres. One showed a basin of 48.83 acres; another showed a basin of 48.832 acres.

Boswell said he did not produce a report for council because generally reports are produced when trying to change a waterway from protected to non-protected status. He appeared to provide a

copy of written results to the mayor and council and to a concerned resident.

Meanwhile, other nearby segments of the Musquapsink Brook, which the tributary flows into, are considered “C1” regulated waters, according to NJDEP, which provides a list of statewide “C1” waters on its website.

The issue of whether the unnamed tributary is a regulated Category One water was important to Meisten Street resident Michael Agnello, whose backyard it bisects 24/7. He has repeatedly said when he bought his home 40plus years ago, he was shown an easement on his property deed

and told the tributary was a protected “C1” waterway.

Township Council also recently directed its attorney, Ken Poller, to conduct a title search in mid-March on Agnelloʼs property to see if an easement could be found. Poller has yet to report on that, at least in open session.

Following Boswell Engineeringʼs review of data used to determine the unnamed tributaryʼs drainage area, Township Engineer Kevin Boswell said that the LIDAR data used by Najarian Associates, Eatontown, was based on U.S. Geologic Service (USGS) LIDAR data available on the state D epartment of Environmental

Protection website.

He said Najarian did not create its own LIDAR data

Agnello had pointed out — after consulting with a local engineer — that he believed the LIDAR data was developed by Najarian and not a government agency as the DEP Flood Hazard Area Act Technical Manual states is required. Boswell said that the LIDAR data used by Najarian Associates was publicly available on the DEP site.

LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data is gathered f rom aerial sources (drones, planes, and helicopters) that

Golf outing scholarship deadline April 30

The Westwood Charity Golf Outing has been renamed the Skip Kelley Memorial Outing in honor of one of its co-founders, who gave Westwood a lifetime of municipal service. Mayor Kelley passed away on Dec. 11, 2022.

The Skip Kelley Memorial Outing will be held on Thursday, Sept. 14 at Valley Brook Golf Course, with breakfast beginning at 7:30 a.m. and a shotgun start beginning at 8:30. The cost will be $720 per foursome and/or $180 per golfer

Although its legal name remains the Westwood Charity Golf Outing, the name is not the only change participants will notice. At last yearʼs Outing, Kelley conducted a vote during the luncheon, and the results of that vote established a new Scramble (best ball) format; rather than participants playing their own ball as in years past.

WCGO Scholarship Applications Available to Westwood Resident High School Seniors

For 27 years, the Outing has been raising money for worthwhile recipients. During the first

10 years, proceeds went to local charities. Then 16 years ago, the WCGO Scholarship Committee began giving its proceeds to the WCGO Scholarship Fund, offering scholarships to Westwood resident high school seniors, thus assisting Westwoodʼs future leaders.

This year, the WCGO Scholarship Committee is offering two $2,000 scholarships to two Westwood resident senior students who are very talented, and the assistance for college would really help them and their families.

The scholarship-winning students may come from Westwood High School or one of the private high schools in the area to which Westwood residents attend.

To date, 36 recipients from six high schools have been awarded WCGO Scholarships.

Scholarship applications are with the Clerkʼs Office at the Westwood Municipal Center, in the Recreation Department at the Westwood Community Center, in the Westwood Library, and on the Borough of Westwood website.

You also may send your request for an application to west-

The Westwood Charity Golf Outing is renamed the Skip Kelley Memorial Outing in honor of one of its co-founders,who gave Westwood a lifetime of municipal service Left, Kelley.Right:Peter Grefrath.

woodcgo@gmail.com, or ask your guidance counselor for an electronic copy

For more information write to WCGO Scholarship Committee, 37 Goodwin Terrace, Westwood, NJ 07675. The deadline for scholarship applications to be received is April 30, 2023.

Tax bump introduced, final budget hearing May 9

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PARKRIDGE

H omeowners are likely to face an approximate $122 municipal tax increase in 2023 based on the $17.3 million preliminary budget introduced at the April 11 Borough Council meeting.

However, the council president told residents at that meeting that “the council is still discussing possible changes to the

budget which may reduce the tax levy from what is stated in the introduced budget.”

Fenwick was acting mayor at the meeting as Mayor Keith M isciagna was absent, along with councilman Matthew Capilli.

The total introduced 2023 budget was $17,346,902, and $12,250,201 is the local tax levy paid by property taxes.

Chief Financial Officer Consuelo Carpenter told Pascack Press that a public hearing and

budget presentation will occur at the May 9 council meeting.

She said the biggest areas of increases were in health insurance, municipal employee pensions, and increased interest rates on outstanding notes and bonds.

Last yearʼs budget came with an average $133.00 propert y tax increase. The average home in Park Ridge is assessed at $474,000, said finance officials.

C ouncil President William Fenwick told Pascack Press, “As can be seen from the introduced

PHS: Curiosity Sale April 29–30

FROM PAGE 4

and frames, artwork, and so much more—all at bargain prices. The sale is full of unique finds for lovers of all things vintage.

This is a cash-only sale. While PHS volunteers are happy to wrap your breakables and pack

them up, please remember to bring your own bags.

The Curiosity Sale is run entirely by volunteers and all the items are generously donated. It is an important fund-raiser for the nonprofit Pascack Historical Society, which operates a free-admission museum and provides educa-

tional programs for children and adults. The museum is open every Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, email info@pascackhistoricalsociety .org. Visit the Pascack Historical Society on Facebook to see sale photos posted in the days leading up to the event.

The Park Ridge Municipal Pool The Park Ridge Municipal Pool

budget, we were able to keep the overall increases in appropriations limited to $50,400.00. We saw major increases in police department salary compensation that were a contractual obligation as well as major increases in insurance premiums. In our capital improvement program we are replacing a fire truck that is over 20 years old and near the end of its usable life.”

He continued, “Also in the capital improvement program, we have included the paving of streets that see heavy use near our schools, such as West Park Avenue and Wield Court, as well as other streets in town that are in need of repair.”

Fenwick noted, “The end of the lawsuit over the former Sony headquarters allowed us to sig-

n ificantly reduce our legal budget. We also saw major increases in non-tax revenue, with our hotel tax and court fines bouncing back from reduced revenues that occurred in prior years during COVID.”

“Also of note, we passed a resolution (April 11) to monetize the parking spaces that the Borough is obligated to lease from the James under the agreement the mayor and then sitting council had made when the development was built. Previously, these parking spaces had gone completely unused and the town was losing $75,000 year after year to the James in parking lease payments for spaces that the town was not even using,” said Fenwick.

46-unit redeveloper OK’d; corporate tax appeals ongoing

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFFLAKE

Following approvals of a redeveloper for 188 Broadwayʼs planned 46-unit development and a required escrow account at the April 17 meeting, the next steps for the redeveloper include creating a redeveloperʼs agreement in conjunction with borough officials and then appearing before the Planning Board.

No timetable for the next steps were immediately known, but administrator Tom Padilla told Pascack Press that he anticipated the redeveloper to act “sooner rather

than later.”

The 46 units approved at 188 Broadway, including 37 rental apartments in the front building and nine townhomes in the rear, were part of a multi-part settlement by the borough with 188 Broadway LP, the redeveloper, Fair Share Housing Center, and Bergen County United Way.

The borough agreed to build eight more affordable units at its North Broadway site, increasing total affordable units to 24 apartments, (See “Itʼs Settled: 46 Housing Units at 188 Broadway,” Michael Olohan, Dec. 12, 2022, Pascack Press.) To find a specific issue online, visit our E-Newspaper

site and search the multi-year Pascack Press archive.

Previously, 188 Broadway LP had two prior site plans for 60 and 53 apartment units at the 188 Broadway site rejected unanimously by the Zoning Board. Both rejections were appealed by the developer and were pending when the borough agreed to a multipart settlement on the site, including a lower-density development and shifting the affordable units to a borough-owned site.

Padilla said the official redeveloper, 188 Broadway LP, was approved by a 5-1 vote on April 17, with councilwoman Josephine Higgins opposed.

“Resolved that negotiations commence with the Redeveloper (188 Broadway LP) on a redeveloper agreement ("Redeveloper Agreement") governing the redevelopment of the Redevelopment Area in accordance with the Redevelopment Plan which Redeveloper Agreement shall be subject to the approval of the Council, states the resolution approved 5-1 by council.

Another resolution approved 60 established an escrow agreement with 188 Broadway LP with an initial deposit of $7,500.

“The Proposed Redeveloper has agreed to deposit with the Borough the initial amount of $7,500 (the "Escrow Deposit"), as an inducement to the Borough to adopt the Redevelopment Plan and engage in negotiations over the Agreement as set forth in the Escrow Agreement,” states resolution number 23114. The escrow will pay legal fees for the redeveloperʼs agreement, said officials.

The Redevelopment Plan was previously adopted and the redeveloper hopes to begin talks for a “redeveloperʼs agreement” with borough special counsel Jeffrey Zenn, Cullen & Dykman, its redevelopment attorney, soon.

The council will approve a redeveloperʼs agreement before the redeveloper presents site plans to the Planning Board. The board will review the preliminary and final site plan based on the 188 Redevelopment Plan.

Corporate tax appeals

In other news, the council unanimously approved two resolutions to seek appraisals of two properties — one at 100 Tice Boulevard and one at 520 Chestnut Ridge Road — whose owners have filed legal tax

appeals, challenging assessments during specific years, mostly focused on recent pandemic-affected years.

The two property assessments by McNerney & Associates will cost the borough a total of $28,000.

The owners of 100 Tice Boulevard, SIG 100 Tice LLC, and owners of 520 Chestnut Ridge Road, Brighton Norse Realty LLC, have filed legal appeals challenging assessments.

SIG 100 Tice LLC, which is currently leasing its office space to Party City, is challenging tax assessments in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Brighton Norse Realty, currently leasing to Whole Foods Market, is challenging tax assessments in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Padilla said some corporate tenants who may have struggled with occupancy during the pandemic are looking at their tax assessments and challenging the borough to prove its assessment was correct, given the economic conditions that existed.

It was not clear when the civil cases would be heard in Bergen County Tax Court.

Bergen Dental Group’s digital edge

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Digital radiography is a type of X-ray imaging that uses digital Xray sensors to replace traditional photographic X-ray film, producing enhanced computer images of teeth, gums, and other oral structures and conditions with less radiation.

Digital impressions — That means no mess, no extra materials in mouth, no gag reflex. Digital Impressions (also known as 3-D intraoral scanning) are the latest technology in capturing a replica of the mouth. By using a wand-like tool connected to a computer and advanced software, a dentist can cre-

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ate a virtual model of the hard and soft tissues in the mouth.

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We offer fully integrated digital forms, digital dental charting, digital X-rays and digital impressions at Bergen Dental Group!

Schedule your consultation at Bergen Dental Group — family owned and run by Drs. Mona and Kevin Ma — at 647 Pascack Road, Township of Washington. Call (201) 383-0085.

Cardinal youth cheerleading sign-up

The Cardinal Youth Cheerleading program is open to residents of Westwood and Washington Township who are in grades 1–7. Registration for the fall 2023 season runs Monday, May 8 and Wednesday, May 17 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave.

The registration fee is $160 for cheerleaders now in 1st grade and $185 for cheerleaders now in grades 2–7.

Cheerleaders must accompany their parents to registration so that they can be sized for uniforms. A cheerleading fleece jacket must also be purchased for an additional fee.

The program begins the week of Aug. 7 and continues into midNovember. There will be a chore-

Spring rec classes and programs

River Vale, sign up today so you and your family can enjoy the beautiful weather!

Town Hall and at rivervalenj.org

ography camp the second and third weeks in August.

Practice is held three times per week; the cheerleaders will cheer for the Junior Cardinal Football team. Games are played every weekend starting in September.

For the code of conduct and guidelines for the season, see cardinalyouthcheerleading.weebly.com

For more information write westwoodyouthcheerleading@yahoo. com.

Patricia J. Villano

• Pickleball – The two new pickleball courts at the Mark Lane Field Complex opened to River Vale residents and non-residents in fall 2022. This month a security system was implemented to protect the courts from damage. The pickleball courts are available for use on a first-come, first- served basis from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Starting May 15, a key fob will be required for access. Registration is required. Details and form are available at

ї Girls Field Hockey A two-week clinic, starting April 22, is open to residents of River Vale and Hillsdale and is focused on introducing field hockey to girls in grades K-5. All skill levels are welcome. Registration extended through April 12.

• Spring Fling 5K Run/Walk — Sunday, May 21 at 9 a.m. starting at the Mark Lane Sports Complex. Registration is open. Proceeds benefit the Helping Hand Food Pantry.

• Fitness With Friends

Registration is open for indoor and

outdoor fitness and dance classes for adults and children. Walk in classes are available. Held at the River Vale Community Center and on River Vale fields.

• USA Sport Group Registration is underway for a variety of kidsʼsports clinics and camps in River Vale starting soon.

• Senior Fitness Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:30 to 1:15 pm and Monday evenings weekly at the Senior/Community Center. $48 for eight classes. No online registration required. Classes are ongoing. Payment in advance to River Vale Town Hall, 406 Rivervale Road.

Residents seek council’s aid over trespassing, flooding

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PARKRIDGE

Borough Council members heard from several residents April 11 on pressing problems affecting their daily lives, including youngsters trespassing on private property as a shortcut to a park and another homeowner facing flooding on his property allegedly caused by a new home being constructed on adjoining property.

Both received assistance from local officials, though it was not clear if either problem could be immediately remedied.

Erin Carmiel, and her father, Mark Forman, who reside on Linden Avenue, told council that their property is repeatedly “used as a personal playground” for numerous youngsters who trespass as they cut through their yard to near-

by Memorial Field.

Carmiel said the last 10 days she was working from home, and noted “mayhem goes on on our property.” She said kids use the steep slope in their yard that goes down onto Memorial Field as a shortcut to the park.

She said the kids ride their bikes “up and down it (the slope) without helmets” and noted it appeared some kids “go out of their way” to use the slope on their property to access the park.

Carmiel said she was told by the police that they cannot intervene or stop the juveniles “and cannot even ask their names” due to a law and that it's a private property issue.

She said the park shortcut on her property is slippery and dangerous and that kids might get hurt going up and down it. She noted many of the kids were “rude (and) disrespectful.” She also said she

put up several no trespassing signs that she paid for, which were later knocked down or removed by kids traversing the area.

Schettino told her that he would reach out to the police department to find out why they could not take the juvenilesʼ names and why they could not “discourage” youngsters from using the private property cutthrough. He said the homeowners could file a complaint against the kids in municipal court.

Forman asked if the borough would consider putting up a fence to restrict access through their property. Carmiel also noted that they have security cameras that have video recordings of kids trespassing on their private property. Schettino said the security footage should be enough evidence for police to take action against kids trespassing on private property.

Council President William Fenwick said he would ask the police chief about anti-trespass laws during the next work session. Carmiel also noted lights at Memorial Field often stay on until late at night, sometimes as late as 11 p.m. on a recent Sunday. She said recently three kids were at the park late, blasting music, screaming and cheering. “Itʼs just not right.”

Resident Alleges ConstructionCaused Flooding

David Strauss, 53 Glendale Road, alleged on April 11 that the contractor doing work next door caused flooding in the corner of his property. He said he told council about this two weeks ago and nothing was done. He said the area was flooded with 6 to 8 inches of water near his shed and garden area.

He said the contractor appeared to be building up the property next door, allegedly four feet, which may be part of the problem. He said his property was “flooded for a year solid.”

Borough engineer John Dunlea said the code official had reached out to the contractor to address these issues. He noted Straussʼs shed is in a low-lying spot where water would pool.

Dunlea said once he receives the contractorʼs as-built survey — required following completed construction — he would review that against the approved preliminary site plan.

He told Strauss he would go over the as-built survey “with a fine-tooth comb.” Schettino asked the engineer if they could give the contractor a deadline to produce the as-built plan.

Fenwick, standing in for mayor Keith Misciagna for the meeting, said the borough would give the contractor a deadline to produce the as-built plan and review it against the approved

plans.

Dunlea noted a possible “change in topography” was a major concern. He said the contractor early in construction on site had “improper” soil erosion and sediment control measures in place, and “It was forced upon him to do that.”

Strauss alleged the contractor had “pumps running all the time” and suggested the contractor may have hit an underground spring or groundwater. He said the foundation had “an extraordinary amount of water” in it after it was built.

Dunlea said any “off-site stormwater-related issues must be addressed by the contractor at his expense.” Schettino pointed out the contractor had to produce “a drainage plan” for the property and if he deviated from that, his drainage plan would not be effective.

Schettino said any deviations from the approved plan and the contractor “would have to remedy it at his sole cost and expense.”

ʻParaphernaliaʼ definitions questioned Attorney Bilal Lajoudi of Jaloudi & Associates of Clifton, representing Park Ridge Smokes, which opened in mid-March, said

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Mayor: Parks see ‘renaissance,’ more visitors

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

EMERSON

Emersonʼs seven parks are in fine shape and will be getting better as the town expends Open Space funds and gets additional county Open Space grants to improve them, mayor Danielle DiPaola said recently.

In addition to its seven parks, the borough also hosts Emerson Woods Preserve, a 19-acre preserve that is part of the watershed buffer surrounding the Oradell Reservoir. The preserve was purchased by Emerson in 2001 with grants and loans from Bergen County Open Pace Trust Fund and NJDEP Green Acres.

At the March 21 Council meeting, a Spruce Street resident had criticized conditions at Ackerman Park, providing a long list of

actions to remedy alleged problems at the park. DiPaola said she found no such problems during several visits there.

DiPaola said after checking out the seven borough parks, she along with other council members, have found few problems. She said, “Personally. Iʼve not seen anything out of order,” and noted that all local parks close at 10 p.m. except Rosengart Park, a childrenʼs park, which closes at 8 p.m.

At the March 21 meeting, Spruce Street resident Carlos Colina, whose backyard backs up to the park, told council members that non-residents were mostly using the parkʼs basketball courts, often playing “loud, objectionable” music, trespassing on residentsʼ properties, and negatively impacting the neighborhoodʼs quality of life.

He offered suggestions to improve conditions, including closing parks at 8 p.m., and banning all portable music-playing devices, uncivil behavior, and profanity use at the park.

DiPaola noted that she had recently passed one park several times that previously was not seeing much use and it was busy with children and adults. She said local parks appear to be in a “renaissance” with more and more people using them.

She also noted last year one

resident offered to power wash the basketball courts and they again offered to do that this year. Councilman Michael Timmerman said that some signage in parks could be cleaned up and that the town needed to “make sure all our residents have access to our parks.”

DiPaola said the town continues to improve equipment in the parks, and as grants become available, regularly works to maintain and upgrade recreational facilities.

Officials said basketball courts in Ackerman will likely be

paved after they received a $60,000 county grant, and will add to it from other Open Space funds.

Administrator Rob Hermansen noted police regularly check up on parks during local patrols. He noted that they have not heard any reports or concerns as voiced by the Spruce Street resident.

DiPaola said no action would be taken related to any changes in parksʼoperations.

The SOLOS group of National Council of Jewish Women, Jersey Hills Section, invites you to a luncheon at the Railyard Tavern, Plaza Road, Fair Lawn on April 30 1 p.m.

The group of single women who enjoy doing something together one Sunday a month says

many members hail from the Pascack Valley.

“Come to renew old friendships and make new friends. Our activities are open to members only For reservations or information about membership or the luncheon, write Linda at patches41@yahoo.com

DoDentalImplantsLastaLifetime?

Implant dentistry has been practiced by periodontists and oral surgeons since the 1970s. There is over 50 years of research proving that dental implants are a predictable long-term option when placed by an experienced surgeon. In fact, the data shows a lifetime success rate of over 98%!

Dental Implants are a Science, not a Technique

It takes years of academic training and practice to master and achieve this skill – and this level of success. Recently, more general dentists are offering to surgically place dental implants. However, their training is typically in the range of 40-100 hours of coursework, compared to the three-year, full-time residency which is required to be a Board-Certified Periodontist & Dental Implant Surgeon. This is one reason why the

American Dental Academy (ADA) stipulates that only periodontists (not even oral surgeons) can call themselves dental implant surgeons. There are a number of other reasons why it is important to choose a periodontist for your treatment – all of which involve maintaining the health of your implants. Periodontists focus on the gum and bone surrounding your teeth and implants. We also learn full-mouth treatment planning with the capability of saving your teeth, not just

replacing them. Unlike any other fields in dentistry, a periodontist can regenerate gum and bone on your teeth and implants. This allows us save teeth ailing from a bad bite and gum disease.

Our surgical skill within the mouth is unparalleled. An oral surgeon is a maxillofacial specialist whose training is focused outside the oral cavity, on the maxilla mandible spaces. This is why they are the right choice for buried wisdom teeth extractions.

Another reason for our success rate is that periodontists support the long-term health of the implants we place with strong hygiene practices. We not only surgically place the implant, but we monitor and follow up with the treatments during your routine cleanings on an annual or bi-annual basis. This allows us to diagnosis and treat any implant problems, regardless of their complexity. Oral surgeons do not provide this service and cannot monitor your treatments in the future.

Are Dental Implants Worth the Expense?

Costs vary depending on the number of implants, the type of prosthesis and bone grafting. In addition, there is as much range in the cost of dental implants as there

is in the quality. Proven and predictable treatment outcomes involve the use of dental implants from manufacturers that have perfected the design based on decades of research involving thousands of their implants.

Less expensive implant options often lack proper research and follow up. Many of these companies target general dentists to do short training programs in order to sell their implants to them. Unfortunately, while cheaper implants do create a range in the cost, the patient assumes the risks in order for a general dentist to provide a service for a couple of hundred dollars less.

When it comes to making a decision about dental implants, I advise my patients not to compromise on the quality. Keep in mind that you are considering a treatment that should last a lifetime, so it is more important to take into account the value. While dental implants may be more costly than options such as removable dentures, the long-term value makes them a great financial investment. For more information, call (201) 664-3023 or visit their office at 354 Old Hook Road #201 or WestwoodPeriodontics.com.

Visconi to speak at LWVNV spring meeting May 9

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley (LWVNV) celebrates the spring season with its 77th Annual Meeting on Tuesday, May 9 at 6 p.m. at Donatella Ristorante, 12 Tappan Road in Harrington Park.

Admission is $40, payable at https://lwv-of-northern-valley.constantcontactsites.com/store or at the door. For reservations, send your name, email and phone number to LWVNV President Nike Bach at nike.bach@gmail.com

Deborah Visconi of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center to Speak

Guest speaker Deborah Visconi, President/CEO of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, will discuss the challenges of transforming the Paramus-based 100year hospital from a for-profit institution to a not-for-profit facility and her on-going leadership focus to both improve and expand service(s), while obtaining positive operating margins.

New Bridge Medical Center is the countryʼs fourth largest, pub-

licly owned hospital, serving as a safety net for New Jerseyʼs most vulnerable population in the stateʼs most populous county.

Selection of Officers and Directors

The agenda includes a social hour with a cash bar, dinner and dessert, and voting on the 20232024 budget.

In addition, the League of Women Voters of Northern Valleyʼs Nominating Committee will

present the slate of officers, directors, and nominating committee members to approve for 20232025.

The officers include President Nike Bach, First Vice President of Marketing Joyce Luhrs, Treasurer Vicki Sidrow, and Secretary Andrew Meehan.

Incoming directors are Linda Cetta, Kelly Epstein, Anne Lander, Julie OʼConnor, and Sally Tayeb. The Nominating Committee includes Cathie Mick and Andrew Meehan.

For more information visit http://bit.ly/LWVNVInformation or write lwvnorthernvalley@gmail.com

About League of Women Voters of Northern Valley

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley, a chapter of the League of Women Voters (LWV), is a non-partisan, grassroots civic

organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

The LWV was an outgrowth of the 19th Amendment passed in 1920 giving women the right to vote.

Today, the LWV operates at the state and local levels through more than 700 state and local Leagues in all 50 states and in Washington D.C., the Virgin Islands and Hong Kong.

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley was founded in 1946, as the League of Women Voters of Closter.

By 1964, the chapter included 11 municipalities in the Northern Valley and was renamed the League of Women Voters of Northern Valley.

Today, the chapter serves 29 municipalities: Alpine, Bergenfield, Cliffside Park, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Dumont, Edgewater, Emerson, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Fort Lee, Hackensack, Harrington Park, Haworth, Hillsdale, Leonia, Montvale, New Milford, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Park Ridge, River Vale, Rockleigh, Tenafly, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake. The organization develops grassroots leadership and achieves widespread credibility because it is strictly nonpartisan. Throughout the year, a range of voters services and programs are provided, including candidatesʼ forums, registration drives, dissemination of nonpartisan information about candidates and issues, and public meetings to discuss current issues.

DEBORAH VISCONI

Members and guests attend a League of Women Voters of Northern Valley meeting.Credit:League of Women Voters of Northern Valley.

Huge Relay For Life April 29 at PVHS BACK IN TIME

The American Cancer Society ʻRelay For Life of the Pascack Valleyʼ is held this year on Saturday, April 29 from 3 to 11 p.m. at Pascack Valley High School, 200 Piermont Ave., Hillsdale.

The theme this year is Country and Western: Giving Cancer the Boot The community is invited to help the American Cancer Society save lives from cancer by forming or joining a team, becoming a sponsor, purchasing a luminaria in memory or in honor of a loved one impacted by cancer, and joining any of the many activities on the day of the event.

Registered cancer survivors and their caregivers are invited to attend

an onsite dinner in their honor at 6 p.m.

At Relay, participants celebrate cancer survivors and their caregivers, remember loved ones lost through a reflective luminaria ceremony, and fight back by raising money and awareness to help save lives from cancer at this fun, memorable and emotionally charged event.

During the event, teams sponsor fun themed laps. Funds raised at Relay help to fuel the mission of the American Cancer Society.

Spokesperson Sue Vaccaro tells Pascack Press “There will be many events, including a wiffle ball contest, live bands, clowns, food trucks and

performances by students from Pascack Valley High School, Emerson High School, Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School, and Academy of the Holy Holy Angels —some of the many high schools participating in this event.” She says, “We are hoping to increase the number of participants this year. The event is being held about a month early. We also are hoping to have more cancer survivors and their caregivers join us for the dinner that we hold at the event in their honor.”

To register for the event, visit relayforlife.org/pascackvalleynj To volunteer, or for any questions, write scvaccaro@verizon.net

Members of the Golden Age Social Club of Park Ridge enjoyed a historical slideshow of Park Ridge at a recent meeting. Members report, “It was a step back in time and brought memories of years ago. The slideshow was presented by Kristin Beuscher and Ralph Donnell Jr. of the Pascack Historical Society,” based in Park Ridge.

Left to right: Golden Age Social Club President Bill Hennig, Pascack Historical Society President Kristin Beuscher, Golden Age Social Club Sergeant-at-Arms Mary Sitek, and Ralph Donnell Jr. of Pascack Historical Society.

ANNUAL CHURCH PLANT SALE MAY 13

First Congregational, United Church of Christ at 131 Pascack Road in Park Ridge has its annual plant sale behind the church on Saturday, May 13. There will be a large selection of organic vegetable and herb plants at reason-

EMERSON

Memorial tree plantings

April 29

The Borough of Emerson, through its Shade Tree Commission, is once again planting trees in memory of those who have passed away, January 2022 to the present, in conjunction with their Arbor Day 2023 ceremony.

This event runs at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 29 at Monument Park, on Main Street opposite Villano School. The names of the departed will be read and family members will have the opportunity to share their thoughts with the assemblage.

To have your loved one remembered at this yearʼs ceremony, please contact the borough clerk at (201) 262- 6086 Option 9 or clerk@emersonnj.org

able prices. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call (201) 391-5800 or visit congregationalchurch.net

Dr. Kevin Ma & Dr. Mona Ma Dental Care for entire family.

Smile Makeover and Implants. Veneers, Whitening and Clear Aligners. We Welcome Kids & Adults. All Major Dental Insurances Accepted. No Insurance? We offer in-house discount plan.

24 HOUR EMERGENCY, EVENING AND SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS.

647 PASCACK ROAD

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON, NJ 201-383-0085

www.BergenDentalGroup.com dentalbergen@gmail.com

PARKRIDGE

Barbara Hennig photo

Farewell, godspeed, Oradell’s Sgt. Solinas

Here are views of the procession on Sunday, April 16, for U.S. Army Sgt. David Solinas Jr., down Kinderkamack Road. The Oradell resident, 29, was one of nine soliders who died March 29 when their two Black Hawk medical evacuation hel-

icopters crashed during a drill outside Fort Campbell in Kentucky.

“We are a faithful family, and we are proud David was training to rescue soldiers on the battlefield,” Solinasʼbrother Aidan Solinas said in reports.

In a statement, the 101st Airborne Divisionʼs commanding general expressed support for the mourning families, adding: “The loss of these soldiers will reverberate through our formations for years to come ... Now is the time for grieving and healing.”

Responders from the Pascack Valley, and further afield, turned out in the procession honoring Solinas and the others lost.

Gov. Phil Murphy released the following statement:

“Tammy and I are devastated by the news that a New Jerseyan, Sergeant David Solinas of Oradell, was among those who lost their lives Wednesday when a nighttime training mission among Blackhawk heli-

copters in Kentucky ended in tragedy. At just 23 years of age, David already left an imprint on his community and his service will not be forgot-

ten. We send our deepest condolences to Sgt. Solinasʼfamily and loved ones. In his memory, and in honor of his service to our nation, I will sign an executive order on Monday morning that will direct flags to be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, April 4.”

“We would like to thank the 82nd Airborne Division, the 101st Airborne Division, family and friends for their love, support and prayers,” Aidan Solinas said.

An Army aviation safety team from Fort Rucker, Alabama, is investigating the cause of the accident.

—Staff report, with Paul Sullivan photos (except the portrait of the late Sgt. Solinas, which is via his family).

Kohlmeier a Forbes Best-in-State

Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director – Investments of Wells Fargo Advisors in Park Ridge has been recognized on the Best-InState Wealth Advisors list by Forbes.

This accolade represents a list of professionals that come to work with one goal on their minds – helping their clients succeed.

“Itʼs an honor to be recognized by Forbes as one of the Best-In-State Wealth Advisors,” said Kohlmeier. “As investment planning has become more complex, my top priority is to work with my clients to develop strategies to help give them confidence around all facets of their financial lives and achieve their short- and long-term investment goals.”

Kohlmeier has more than 33

KOHLMEIER

years of experience in the financial services industry. He has served on the boards of the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation and the Lower Hudson Valley Challenger Center.

He is also a volunteer with the Rockland County Sheriffʼs Department.

Kohlmeier lives in Orange County, Greenwood Lake, N.Y. with his wife, Elizabeth and their two sons, Justin and Jonathan.

The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rating algorithm is based on the previous yearʼs industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under

Options: Sidewalks

FROM PAGE 5

a chiefʼs report, engineering report, and aerial photos of the neighborhood. He was told to submit a public records (OPRA) request to township clerk Sue WItkowski.

Sabino said “environmental challenges” of putting in sidewalks might include requiring installation of seepage pits for retaining storm runoff from new sidewalks. He wondered if the township would be paying to alter every homeownerʼs property with side-

walks and seepage pits.

Councilwoman Stacey Feeney said purchasing the 450 Pascack Road tract was “the way to go” and suggested partnering with Westwood Regional School District (Washington Elementary School).

She said 450 Pascackʼs purchase was “honestly our best option” especially if the elementary school is enlarged, given new housing developments approved, including Vivianoʼs American Dream development and the Franklin Court apartment complex.

management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC Investment performance is not a criterion.

A self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and is based solely on the disclosed criteria.

About Wells Fargo Advisors

With $1.88 trillion in client assets as of March 31, 2022, Wells Fargo Advisors provides advice and guidance to help clients maxi-

mize all aspects of their financial lives. Our vast network of financial advisors, one of the nationʼs largest, serves investors through locations in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Wells Fargo Advisors is a part of Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management (WIM), a division within Wells Fargo & Company and one of the largest wealth managers in the U.S. WIM provides financial products and services through various bank and brokerage affiliates of

Wells Fargo & Company.

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Members SIPC, separate registered broker-dealers and non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company.

All data includes Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, as of March 31, 2022. www.wellsfargoadvisors.com

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Veolia, VIPs welcome helpful Finn the fish to reservoir

A gigantic largemouth bass has been spotted at the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir, weighing a whopping 300 pounds and sporting a hungry look.

Meet Finn, the Green Gobbler, a massive fish sculpture with an even bigger message about protecting our planet.

Boston-based Veolia brought Finn to its new home at the reservoir to celebrate Earth Month –and to encourage residents to take action to protect the watershed.

At 11 feet long, Finn is constructed from repurposed metals and is hollow so visitors to the reservoir can fill it with plastic debris they find in the area. Finnʼs belly is big enough to hold more than 15 trash bags of plastic bottles.

“We wanted to create a space where visitors to Woodcliff Lake could enjoy the scenery while making a difference just by taking a walk,” said Alan Weland, vice president and general manager of Veoliaʼs New Jersey operations at the unveiling — at the fishing gate off Reservoir Road — April 19.

Finn is a playful way to encourage the community to get active in protecting the watershed and also serve as a reminder about how harmful plastic is to waterways. Plastic waste makes up 80% of all marine pollution.

“As we celebrate Earth Month, we want to remind our communities that we all have a vested interest in keeping our environment clean,” Weland said. “Healthy watersheds mean healthy communities.”

The event reeled in VIPs and other stakeholders: Holly Schepisi, NJ Senator District 39; James Tedesco NJ County Executive; Tom Sullivan, Commissioner Chairman; Tom Padilla, Borough Administrator Woodcliff Lake; Jennfier Margolis, Council President Woodcliff Lake; Michael Ghassali, Mayor of Montvale; Mike Panos, Hackensack Riverkeeper director of Donor Relations; Violet Reed, executive director MEVO; Alexa Fantacone, executive director NJ Audubon Lorrimer Sanctuary; Jim Swaim, Environmental Sculptures; and

Nicole Marsh, councilperson Woodcliff Lake.

Finn is just one way Veolia is encouraging communities to join the company in taking action to protect our planet. Ecological transformation is at the heart of Veoliaʼs business, and its employees across the nation are creating innovative solutions to conserve water, reduce energy consumption, and protect local ecosystems like the North Jersey watershed.

Finn sits near the public fishing gate on Reservoir Road, an

area where Veolia crews as well as community groups often hold cleanups to clear the debris that has been carried downstream.

Plastic bottles and other plastics make up much of the trash pulled out of the reservoir.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

Above left: Alan Weland,VP and GM of Veolia’s New Jersey Operations.Bottom left:An emotional Jim Swaim of Environmental Sculptures.Above:Finn,the Green Gobbler,a massive fish sculpture with an even bigger message about protecting our planet.Below:Finn with ceremonial starter debris,and with event attendees. John Snyder photos

WESTWOOD

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

WTW Cardinals wrap cheer season

The WTW Cardinal Competition Cheer Team just finished a dazzling 2022–2023 season, including a first-place win at Just Cheer All Stars.

Consisting of Cardinal Youth Cheerleaders in grades 7 and 8 from Westwood and Washington Township, and coached by Olivia Kramer and Emma Oakes, the team competed at the Just Cheer All Star Competition, Secaucus High School, Ramapo High School, The Brooke Costanzo Saddle Brook Competition, Wayne Vally High School, and the Impact Cheer Challenge.

Spring flower sale benefits Relay

The Third Annual Relay For Life of the Pascack Valley Flower Sale is on through Relay For Life, Saturday, April 29. To order your flowers, visit relayforlife.org/pascackvalleynj and click on the flower sale flyer.

On Saturday, April 29, the Teens Against Cancer Team from Pascack Hills High School will take orders for the flowers at the Pascack Valley High School football field. Pick up is Saturday, May 13 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Pascack Hills High School in Montvale.

This yearʼs Relay For Life of the Pascack Valley is at Pascack Valley High School in Hillsdale from 3 to 11 p.m. All are welcome.

Organizers tell Pascack Press,

Purple impatiens are among the beauties available to order in support at the Third Annual Relay For Life of the Pascack Valley Flower Sale

“The Annual Flower Sale has become one of our most popular and top fundraisers for the Relay The beautiful flowers come from DePieroʼs Farm. There are many

types of flowers to choose from. Perfect for Motherʼs Day and to plant in your garden.”

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life movement is the world's largest community fundraising event dedicated tosaving lives from cancer. For more than 35 years, communities across the world have come together to honor and remember loved ones and take action for lifesaving change.

Proceeds from the sale will go to the American Cancer Society to fund breakthrough research, 24/7 support for cancer patients, access to lifesaving screenings, and much more.

For more information, visit relayforlife.org/pascackvalleynj

The WTW Cardinal Competition Cheer Team told Pascack Press on April 17, “We thank our sponsors AMP Communications LLC, Applebeeʼs Grill, Access Computer Floors LLC, Goldbergʼs Bagels, RG-O Landscaping, Morris Media Group, C.A.V. Electric, Anne Ryan, Realtor, Taylor Made Smiles, and Wonder Meats.”

For more information on the WTW competition team or Cardinal Recreation Youth Cheerleading, write westwoodyouthcheerleading@yahoo.com

PR: Residents seek

FROM PAGE 10

the shop recently put a sign in its window reading, None of These Products Is Marijuana-Related on the advice of the leaser.

He argued certain definitions of paraphernalia in the borough code covering drug paraphernalia were too broad and covered products also used to smoke tobacco.

Schettino told him the definitions used in the ordinance were

from state law. Schettino also noted a recent state Supreme Court case had defined drug paraphernalia and that the borough would have to follow that. He said any arguments against that decision were better brought to that court and not the Borough Council.

He said he was not aware of any violations being issued to the new shop..

These young ladies have plenty to cheer about! The WTW Cardinal Competition Cheer Team just finished its 2022–2023 season.

“At Giulioʼs, we only use the freshest ingredients in our homemade dishes. Featuring contemporary Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, we strive to please every palate.”

Owner Beni Qosja opened Giulioʼs Restaurant in 2022. Housed in a beautiful, romantic, Queen Anne Victorian in Historic Tappan, N.Y., just minutes from Bergen County, Giulioʼs Restau-

rant offers contemporary Italian cuisine.

Built in 1880 by the Smith family, the rooms are adorned with carved woodwork and large beveled glass windows that make you feel like you stepped into another era. The warm and inviting fireplaces in the Main D ining Room and Oak Room beckon guests to enjoy a fine glass of wine and a delicious

meal.

Beni brings more than 25 years of culinary experience to Giulioʼs Restaurant. Formerly of Vicolo of Old Tappan, Il Vicolo of Livingston and current owner

of Limoncello in Waldwick, the years of world class experience and passion for culinary creations is evident in each and every of his signature dishes.

Giulioʼs Restaurant creates contemporary dishes with only the finest and freshest ingredients. Visit for a drink in the full-

service bar, a casual meal by the fireplace, or to celebrate your life's most memorable events in one of the private dining rooms.

Formerly Giulioʼs of Tappan, the new Giulioʼs Restaurant offers guests a fresh experience with an updated dé cor and menu in a warm, romantic setting.

When you go… Giulioʼs Restaurant 154 Washington Street Tappan, N.Y. 845-359-3657

See website for hours: www.giuliosrestaurant.com giuliosrestaurant@gmail.com

Kirsch the Mentalist May 6

Congregation Bʼnai Israel hosts a performance by Kirsch the Mentalist on Saturday, May 6 at 8:30 p.m.

Michael “Kirsch” Kirschner combines mind-blowing mentalism with eye-popping magic to provide an entertaining evening of mystery, wonder and humor. This interactive show will turn an otherwise boring Saturday night into an extraordinary, unforgettable and delightful night out.

To make the night even more special, the performance will be followed by a spectacular dessert buffet. The cost is $55 per person in advance (by May 4) and $65 at the door.

This event is open to the public. Seating reservations may be made at bisrael.com or by calling the temple office at (201) 2652272.

Congregation Bʼnai Israel is at 53 Palisade Ave.

‘Dining for Dollars’ at Davey’s

Friends of the Montvale Library each time you dine in, whether for lunch or for dinner

WESTWOOD

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP MEETS MAY 9

The Westwood Senior Fellowship next meets on Tuesday, May 9. The doors open at 11 a.m. for anyone having their blood pressure taken. “Join us for

refreshments and social hour. Donʼt forget to sign up for our luncheon at Domaniʼs restaurant, Hillsdale, on Tuesday, June 13 at noon. The cost is $40 per person.”

MEMORIALDAY BREAKFAST, PARADE

Hillsdaleʼs annual Memorial Day ceremony is Monday, May 29 at 9:30 a.m. in Veterans Park. The ceremony, which honors those who gave their lives in military service, is led by American Legion Post 162.

The day starts off with a pancake breakfast, hosted by Boy Scout Troop 109, at 7 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church.

during World War II.

Guido was wounded in combat and received, among other medals, the Purple Heart. As a combat engineer, Guido built the Bailey bridges that allowed our army to cross rivers where bridges were destroyed by the retreating Nazis. Guido, who turned 100 years old this past year, is a longtime resident of Hillsdale.

4 (lunch and dinner).

Daveyʼs will donate 20% of your bill on these days to the

Daveyʼs, a great familyowned restaurant and Irish pub, has been in business for more than 48 years. It is on Kinderkamack Road and Grand Avenue and opens at 11:30 a.m.

Dining for Dollars coupons

are available at the Montvale Library, on the Libraryʼs website (montvalelibrarynj.org) and from any member of the Friends of the Library. A coupon must be presented before the bill is paid. For more information, call the Montvale Library at (201) 3915090.

Now Accepting Reservations For Private Parties!

This yearʼs parade theme is “Proud to be an American,” which also is the theme for the essay contest for local schools. Winners of the essay contest will read their essays as part of the ceremony.

The public is encouraged to attend the ceremony to recognize and honor the 19 Hillsdale residents who made the ultimate sacrifice.

This yearʼs grand marshal is Legionnaire Guido Borella, who served in the U.S. Army with the A Company 119th Armored Engineer Battalion, 12th Armored Division

Deputy grand marshal is Legionnaire Bob Abaddie, who served with the U.S. Army in Korea during the Korean war. Bob holds the Combat Infantry Badge for his service on the front lines of the war. He will serve as grand marshal next year.

Following the ceremony, the annual parade steps off around 10:30 a.m. in front of George White School and travels to Veterans Park.

Please join in the dayʼs activities to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

MONTVALE

EMERSON Kirsch is set to dazzle! Via @TheKirschProject on Instagram.

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.

a better place. At Wells Fargo & Company, for example, all employees are called to:

• Be leaders

• Be engaged and connected in our communities

ERIC KOHLMEIER

But I think thereʼs more to it than that; you should seek one thatʼs committed to supporting our community and helping make the world

• 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 demon-

strating 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.

In addition, 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 connec-

tions 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

As the last bullet above shows, 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, external-relationship, and reputation-building efforts as well as personal accountability for diversity, equity, and inclusion advocacy)

This 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.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

HEREʼS AROUNDUP of some of what our libraries are offering patrons in the next days and weeks. Thanks to Pascack Press interns Nick and Mitchell for the web research! Visit your library online or in person to get all the facts —and have fun getting involved!

E EMMEERRSSOON N 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org

•Monday, April 24 at 11 a.m: Little Bookworms and craft. Ages

6 and under. Registration required. At 1 and 3 p.m.: Knitters Circle for adults. Registration required. At 3:30 p.m.: Afternoon Storytime, ages 2-5. Registration recommended.

• Tuesday, April 25 at 3:30

p.m: Switch Club, grades 2–4. Registration required for each child per date.

• Wednesday, April 26 at 1:30

p.m: Great Books Club, adults.

• Friday, April 28 at 10:30

a.m: Music and Movement, ages 1–4. Registration required.

H HIILLLLSSDDAALLE E 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org

• Monday, April 24 at 10:30 a.m.: Jiggly Wiggly Childrenʼs Music Program. At 7 p.m.: Hillsdale Democrats

• Tuesday, April 25 at 10 a.m.: Knitting Club for Beginners Registration Required. At 1 p.m.: MahJong. At 7 p.m.: Scrabble Club Registration required. At 7 p.m.: Meditation with Cheryln Registration required.

• Wednesday, April 26 at 3

Arsenal Soccer Club TRYOUTS

TRYOUTS TRYOUTS TRYOUTS TRYOUTS

FALL 2023/SPRING 2024 SEASONS

p.m.: Think it, Make it, Share it: Balancing toys. Registration required.

• Thursday, April 27 at 1:30

p.m.: Tales for Tykes. Registration required.

• Friday, April 28 at 10:30

a.m.: Chair Yoga for Adults. Inperson registration.

M MOONNTTVVAALLE E

12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org

•Monday, April 24 at 6:30

p.m.: Montvale Cookbook Supper Club. Registration required

• Thursday, April 27 at 10:30

a.m.: Yoga Littles Storytime Registration required.At 6:30

p.m.: Family Storytime with Ms. Mary. Registration required.

P PAARRK K R RIIDDGGE E 51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org

• Monday, April 24 at 11:30 a.m.: Yoga

• Tuesday, April 25 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee. At 3:30 p.m.: Caricatures. Registration required

• Thursday, April 27 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee

• Friday, April 28 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Crafts with Miss Renee

•Saturday, April 29 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Storytime with Miss Eileen.

R RIIVVEER R V VAALLE E 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org

• Monday, April 24 at 10 a.m.: Pre-K Story Time, ages 2–5. Registration required. At 4 p.m.: Color Your Own Umbrellas, grades K–5, registration required.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

All children should have a soccer ball, shinguards, cleats, and a drink. All applicants should attend at least one of the two sessions available for their age group. For updates on field locations, please visit our website at https://playasc.com

If you have other questions, please email: jpssport@aol.com

Jeff Schneider

SPRING SEASON– March through June

FALL SEASON– September through November

Formerly Pro-Active Foot and Ankle, Curalta is the largest podiatry practice in the Northeast offering:

• General Foot Care for all conditions and all ages

• Wound Care and Clinical Trial Studies

• Diabetic Foot Care with Remote Patient Monitoring

• Surgical Procedures and Sports Medicine

• Custom Orthotics and Braces • Pediatric Care

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT:400 Old Hook Rd Suite 1-4 Westwood, NJ 74 Pascack Rd Suite 6 Park Ridge, NJ • 215 Old Tappan Rd Old Tappan, NJ

FOR ALL CURALTA LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE NJ & NY AREA PLEASE VISIT US AT WWW.CURALTA.COM CALL US TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT AT 888-777-1430

port so as to reduce the noise level which our Pascack residents must endure.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

together in attempt to re-route jet planes flying into Teterboro Air-

I sympathize with Pascack residents who are disturbed by this air traffic but I am almost never bothered by airplane noise

‘Wonderful World’ concert April 23

First Congregational, United Church of Christ, at 131 Pascack Road, is excited to present a concert, “Wonderful World,” by Ramapo College on April 23 at 3 p.m.

Four ensembles will be included. The treble ensemble is Skylark, the lower voice ensemble is Take10, and the mixed auditioned chorus is CantaNOVA. These ensembles will join with the Ramapo Chorale ensemble in per-

forming the music of Alice Parker, Ysaye Barnwell, Rosephanye Powell, Shawn Kirchner, and more.

Directors Lisa Lutter and Tami L Petty warmly welcome you to celebrate the Ramapo College Spring Choral concert.

Admission is free; however, donations to Ramapo College will be accepted. For more information, connect with the church at (201) 391-5800 or via congregationalchurch.net

above my park Ridge home.

Gasoline-powered leaf blowers are another story. In season the deafening roar of these machines is an almost daily disturbance. In addition to the distressing noise, these machine foul the air with pollution and are a danger to the health and hearing of those who operate them, whether the operator is a landscape worker or a home-

owner. The sound of an electric leaf blower is soothing by comparison and the barely audible sound of a leaf rake is even better.

I would submit that our mayors should organize to ban the gas powered leaf blower which is probably more achievable than getting the FAA to re-route the jets. More than 100 American cities and towns have passed laws banning or

limiting the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers and California has banned their sale starting in 2024. A bill in New Jersey, S437, would ban the sale of gasolinepowered leaf blowers after one year and ban their use after four years.

Clark Brinkerhoff Park Ridge

Maggie Giandomenico photo

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

Westwood Woman’s Club scholarship

The Westwood Womanʼs Club is offering a scholarship to a graduating high school student. The scholarship is open to all female graduating seniors residing in Westwood or the Township of

Washington, regardless of which high school they attend.

The student must plan to further her education or career training in the fall, and must complete the application and send it to the

Womanʼs Club of Westwood, 205 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675, attention: Scholarship Committee. Applications must be received by May 9, 2023 to be considered.

The Westwood Womanʼs Club tells Pascack Press, “As a service organization, we will be looking for the student who demonstrates community service, volunteerism, citizenship, aca-

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

demic accomplishments and financial need. Applications are available in the high school guidance offices or by emailing westwoodwomansclub@gmail.com for an electronic copy.”

IHA springopen house April 27

Immaculate Heart Academy is hosting its spring open house on Thursday, April 27 at 6:30 p.m.

The invitation reads, “Take a tour with knowledgeable and friendly student Eagle Ambassadors, who will guide you through the state-of-the-art building and campus. Meet teachers, administrators, directors, students, and

coaches. Learn about the admissions process, including the Archdiocesan High School Placement Test (HSPT). Ask questions about curriculum, financial aid, transportation...and much more.

IHA is at 500 Van Emburgh Ave., Township of Washington. Register at ihanj.com. Walk-ins are welcome.

FROM PAGE 6

works on the principle of radar, but uses light from a laser. The laser bounces back off ground elevations to provide an accurate measure of ground contours and elevations, helping to outline the areas draining into a waterway or waterway segment.

Based on the LIDAR data submitted by Najarian in 2019 to NJDEP that showed a 48.2-acre drainage area, the DEP ruled in January 2020 that the tributary behind Agnelloʼs home was not regulated and did not have a riparian area associated with it.

In 2011, using topographical maps that are less precise than LIDAR mapping, said Boswell, a prior township engineer submitted maps showing the waterwayʼs drainage area to be greater than 50 acres. At that point, NJDEP used that data to determine the waterway was a protected “C1” waterway.

Boswell said the two calculations run by Boswell engineers, using USGS LIDAR data available on the DEP website, showed a drainage basin of either 48.830 or 48.832 acres.

Both were less than the 50 acres required to make the stream segment a regulated waterway, he said.

Boswell said that his firm reviewed mapping data, including LIDAR data, available on the DEP website. He said 2019 LIDAR data shows 1-foot contours (elevations) on the ground, which means the contours are “accurate plus or minus 6 inches” and LIDAR data is more accurate

DEMAREST

than that, he added.

H e said the difference in Boswellʼs two data modeling results, 48.83 acres and 48.832 acres, was due to identifying all breaks and ridges, which added approximately 60% of an acre to initial calculations. He told the council that both results “showed definitively less than 50 acres.”

Council/Public Questions

Agnello wondered why Boswell did not use the USGS StreamStats data, which showed the drainage basin at 58.8 acres in size, as recommended in the DEP technical manual.

Boswell said the DEP manual noted that applicants could obtain “more specific data” from o ther data sources, such as LIDAR data.

Boswell said he agreed that t he USGS StreamStats data showed a larger drainage basin, which used 10-foot elevation contours. However, he said the LIDAR data used 1-foot elevation contours and was “most precise” showing a 48.832-acre drainage basin.

C ouncilwoman Stacey Feeney wondered if there were “other factors” besides a 50-acre drainage basin that go into determining whether a waterway is a C1 waterway. She asked Boswell what about a waterway that was close to 50 acres.

Boswell noted DEP has regulated and non-regulated areas, including wetlands, riparian areas, open waters, floodplains, floodways, and threatened and endangered species.

However, Boswell said, referring to the unnamed tributary, that the “threshold question of (regulated) applicability or not” is a minimum 50-acre

AHA upper school open house May 2

Dear seventh grade girls: Your wings are here! Try them on Tuesday, May 2, at the Academy of the Holy Angels Upper Schoolʼs Spring Open House.

Spend the evening (from 5 to 7 p.m.) at our 25-acre campus at 315 Hillside Ave. in Demarest. Learn all about AHA, including how young women benefit from the Academyʼs carefully crafted STREAM education (STEM plus religion and the arts). This nationally recognized curriculum encourages Angels to make interdisciplinary connections, engage in critical thinking, and act ethically, so they are well prepared for life at college and beyond.

Registration for Spring Open House is required. Spots fill up quickly, so be sure to visit holyangels.org/admissions/visit-aha today. This event is limited to seventh grade girls and their parents/guardians.

The Academyʼs administration, faculty, and staff will provide an overview of Holy Angelsʼmission and culture, curriculum, cocurricular and extracurricular offerings, the admissions process, financial aid, and summer programs. Best of all: Our friendly, knowl-

drainage basin. He noted that on one side of a road where a waterway runs could be a regulated waterway, and on the other side where it runs, it may not be a regulated waterway.

He said in January 2020, the NJDEP determined that — based on LIDAR data — the unnamed tributary behind the proposed Four Seasons Marketplace strip mall was not a regulated waterway

Councilman Tom Sears noted that three sets of data were used by engineers to make determinations whether the waterway was regulated or not regulated over the years. “Kind of confusing, donʼt you think?” he said to Boswell.

He said that “it seems kind of

odd” that three engineersʼcalculations went from 58 acres to 48 acres, adding that when a resident asks if he can fill in the same unregulated waterway, officials say that cannot be done. He wondered if the township should hire another engineer to look at the various data used to calculate the drainage basin.

Boswell said he was “very confident” that the unnamed tributary was not a regulated waterway based on Boswell's LIDAR data review and calculations.

However, he said, ”Please donʼt say that Iʼm saying theyʼre not protected,” then added,“It may not be a regulated waterway by the DEP.”

Burke Street resident James

Walsh told Boswell that local officials had agreed that some areas of Northgate Condominium complex that drained to the u nnamed tributary were not included on the drainage maps.

Boswell said he reviewed the areas and said that they were excluded because the storm drain system was not designed for a “100-year” storm, noting most street storm drains are designed for so-called “10-year” and “25year” storms. These are storms identified as occurring only once in a 10-year or once in a 25-year period. He said the 100-year s torm threshold was in the NJDEP Technical Manual on Flood Hazard Area Act Determination criteria.

edgeable Angel Ambassadors will lead campus tours and answer questions about life as an Angel.

So far, the Class of 2023 has gained early admission and millions of dollarsʼ worth of scholarships to renowned colleges and universities that include Yale. This class has also logged thousands of hours using their unique gifts to make a difference at school, in their communities, and around the globe.

Now itʼs your turn. Be part of AHAʼs 143-year success story.

Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼschool in Bergen County. While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this prestigious school serves young women from many backgrounds. AHAʼs current leaders continue to further the SSND mission to provide each student with the tools she needs to reach the fullness of her potential— spiritually, intellectually, socially, andphysically, by offering a firstrate education in a nurturing environment where equal importance is placed on academic excellence, character development, moral integrity, and service to others.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: ‘Natural Ways to Help with ADD/ADHD’

Childhood developmental delays such as autism, d yslexia, Tourettes, Aspergerʼs, and A DD/ADHD can typically be helped by addressing these two major brain problems: an imbalance in the frontal cortex resulting in issues with communication between the left and right brain, as well as retention of primitive reflexes. Since April is Autism Awareness Month, last week we reviewed the best ways to reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life in autistic patients. Today, we are going to look more deeply into Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Children who have ADD often

have trouble focusing. Many get distracted easily, or have difficulty with concentration or paying attention. Children with ADHD have similar symptoms, but also have increased hyperactivity or excessive restlessness. They also tend to fidget, shake their legs restlessly or tap pens on desks.

The first step to diagnosing these conditions is to evaluate the nervous system and the frontal cortex of the brain. It is also vital to check for the retention of primitive reflexes because many children with ADD/ADHD typically still express primitive reflexes well after one year of age which is not normal in brain development and can lead to troubles with focus and anxiety.

Most people donʼt realize that they have experienced primitive reflexes first hand if theyʼve ever played with a baby. When a baby grasps your finger, thatʼs actually a normal palmar grasp primitive reflex. The concern is if such reflex-

es occur after the first year of life. Other primitive reflexes may occur when rubbing the bottom of the foot and the big toe goes up, stimulating the back (next to the spine) and the child sort of twitches to the side, and also turning the childʼs head and looking for a certain elbow movement. These are very quick and easy to check, but most doctors do not continue to check these reflexes during check-ups, so the parents will not know if their children still have these retained primitive reflexes or not.

To show our commitment to the community, Kaplan Brain & Body will be offering primitive reflex evaluations of your children for $21 (normally $500). We only have seven spots left in April.

Functional neurology, primitive reflex remediation exercises, and a treatment called neurofeedback can be extremely beneficial for people who have anxiety, ADD or ADHD. Neurofeedback is a machine that has electrodes attached to it that are placed on the childʼs head in specific areas to find the weaknesses in the brain and give a noninvasive and painfree stimulation to make the brain function better to reduce anxiety and ADD/ADHD without medication and no risk for side effects.

All the child has to do is watch their favorite YouTube video while electrodes are attached to the head and the neurofeedback machine does all the work. It is quick, easy, and there is no pain.

In addition to treating the brain with neurofeedback, people with ADD, and especially ADHD, need plenty of movement throughout the day. Prolonged sitting is harmful for an underdeveloped brain, so I recommend taking planned “movement breaks” every 30-50 minutes. I know that many teachers read this column, so I hope you will consider building in breaks like this for all

students – not just those with ADD or ADHD. This will increase focus and decrease distraction.

Even a neurotypical brain starts to lose focus after 30 minutes, making it difficult to retain information. The same thing should be done at home while doing homework or studying. Even short breaks every 30 minutes to do some physical exercise can be highly beneficial for information retention.

Lifestyle and nutrition are extremely important. We all rememgoing out to play with friends all day, then when the streetlights came on or the fire siren went off, we ran home for a nice home-cooked dinner. We spent time outside in the sun, outdoors in nature, and had companionship. All of these things are good for the frontal cortex.

Fresh food is also important –people with ADD/ADHD should also avoid processed foods, sugar, stimulants, caffeine, artificial flavors and sweeteners, soda, juices, food dyes, and preservatives which all cause inflammation.

Many of the lifestyle factors that are important for people with ADD/ADHD are also important for everyone, but eating right, keeping active, avoiding sitting for too long, and getting outside in the sun is particularly crucial for people with conditions affecting the brain and those looking to reduce inflammation.

If you or someone you know are interested in learning about how to naturally reduce inflammation and holistically improve memory and focus without drugs, surgery, injections, supplements, or herbs, please set up a qEEG brain mapping, which is a non-invasive evaluation method with no radiation or risks, that helps to discover areas of the brain that are not working or functioning properly.

It may be appropriate for you if you have ADD/ADHD, anxiety,

depression, troubles with focus, motivation, pain, autism, have low energy, poor sleep, bad headaches, or dizziness. It is normally $500, but if you are one of the first seven people to sign up, you can receive the complete brain mapping evaluation for only $21.

There are only seven openings left, so call or text 201-2612150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com today.

For more information about functional neurology and our services, visit our website www.kaplandc.com. Follow my weekly articles for updates on lectures and follow our Instagram page @kaplanbrainbody or our Facebook page Kaplan Brain and Body for lots of valuable health tips. Listen to my radio shows every Saturday morning at 8 on 970 AM radio as well as Saturday afternoon on 710 AM radio at 2.

We also have lots of YouTube videos under Kaplan Brain and Body. Please like, comment, and subscribe! I will be running a live and in-person Boost Your Brain Power Seminar Series that begins April 26 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in River Edge. This seminar is about the holistic and natural ways to reduce inflammation.

Each seminar (Mastering Nutrition, Functional Neurology Brain Exercises, and the Boost Your Brain Power Bootcamp to Improve Memory and Focus) is normally $100, but if you call or text (646) 221-6738 before April 25, you can go to all of the live events (which include free massage, free cold laser therapy, and free drinks and snacks), or participate on Zoom, or you can even get all the recordings for a total of $49 (only $12 a module).

Itʼs a no brainer! Hope to see you there.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

Regardlessofyourage,TheExerciseCoachdeliversfitness

With every passing decade, we tend to lose a little more of something – collagen, memory, bone density, and muscle, to name a few. Getting older can feel unkind and out of our control – but the truth is, there are some things we can still take charge of.

Everyone gradually begins losing muscle mass and strength sometime in their 30s or 40s, and the process accelerates between the ages of 65 and 80. Rates vary, but some may lose as much as 8% of muscle mass each decade.

This involuntary loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength is known as sarcopenia. The most common cause of sarcopenia is natural aging.

The images at right contrast the cross-section of the quadriceps of two men in their 70s. The darker portion of the leg indicates muscle fiber. The top image of the sedentary man clearly lacks muscle; the result is especially stark in contrast to the nearly all-muscle quadricep of the active individual.

The good news is that science has proven that sarcopenia can be reversed, and muscle loss can slow or decrease at any age. Over the course of weeks or months, depending upon the personʼs start-

ing point, a healthy diet and reasonable exercise can reverse sarcopenia, which increases lifespan and improves quality of life.

The tech-enabled fitness delivery system of The Exercise Coach, which is powered by patented Exerbotics equipment, is based on the science which calls attention to sarcopenia. This phenomenon, and its associated

comorbidities, is a usual, but not normal, part of the modern lifecycle that can be prevented and reversed.

The Exercise Coach spent decades researching, developing and practicing an effective approach to optimizing exercise for safety, effectiveness, and efficiency. Practical and approachable, The Exercise Coachʼs 20-

The cross-section of the quadriceps of two men in their 70s.The darker portion of the leg indicates muscle fiber.The top image of the sedentary man clearly lacks muscle; the result is especially stark in contrast to the nearly all-muscle quadricep of the active individual.

minute workouts, two or three times per week, are motivating and effective for people of all ages and fitness levels. The testimonials say it all.

The Exercise Coach and the Exerbotics equipment provide an

opportunity for maximum strength gains and metabolic results in three ways:

1. Exerbotics exercises consider the quality (intensity of effort) as the key to maximizing strength gains,

2. The Exerbotics equipment continually safely accommodates the way oneʼs strength varies throughout the jointʼs range of motion.

Further, the exercises effectively provide advantageous muscle fatigue between concentric and eccentric muscle actions (the push and pull back), not otherwise achieved. And finally,

3. Each session at The Exercise Coach includes real-time motivation oversight with the guidance and supervision of a trained professional and digitally displayed biofeedback (via the computer monitors attached to the machines).

This combination of verbal encouragement and digital feedback has been studied repeatedly and found to elicit the highest quality of strength training across both trained and untrained individuals.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

At The Exercise Coach — Hillsdale,a coach guides a member on a chest press machine.

THE SAVVY SENIOR: How to Prepare a Will

BY JIMMILLER

Dear Savvy Senior, I would like to make my last will and testament and would like to know if I can do it myself, or do I need to hire a lawyer?

— Donʼt Have

Dear Donʼt, Very good question! Almost everyone needs a will, but only around one-third of American have actually prepared one. Having a

last will and testament is important because it ensures your money and property will be distributed to the people you want to receive it after your death.

If you die without a will (a.k.a. dying intestate), your estate will be settled in accordance with state law. Details vary by state, but assets typically are distributed using a hierarchy of survivors i.e., first to a spouse, then to children, then your siblings, and so on.

You also need to be aware that certain accounts take precedence over a will. If you jointly own a home or a bank account, for example, the house, and the funds in the

account, will go to the joint holder, even if your will directs otherwise. Similarly, retirement accounts and life insurance policies are distributed to the beneficiaries you designate, so it is important to keep them up to date too.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

Not necessarily. Creating a will with a do-it-yourself software program may be acceptable in some cases, particularly if you have a simple, straightforward estate and an uncomplicated family situation. Otherwise, itʼs best to seek professional advice. An experienced lawyer can make sure you

cover all your bases, which can help avoid family confusion and squabbles after youʼre gone.

If you need help finding someone the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA.org), the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC.org) and the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC.org) websites are good resources that have online directories to help you search.

Costs will vary depending on your location and the complexity of your situation, but you can expect to pay $200 to $1,000 or more to get your will made. To help you save, shop around and get price quotes from several different firms. And before you meet with an attorney, make a detailed list of your assets and accounts to help make your visit more efficient.

If money is tight, check with your stateʼs bar association (see FindLegalHelp.org) to find lowcost legal help in your area. Or call the Eldercare Locater at 800-6771116 for a referral.

If you are interested in a do-ityourself will, some top options to consider are Noloʼs Quicken Wil-

WESTWOOD

lMaker & Trust (Nolo.com, $99) and Trust & Will (TrustandWill.com, $159). Or, if thatʼs more than youʼre willing to pay, you can make your will for free at FreeWill.com or DoYourOwnWill.com.

Itʼs also recommended that if you do create your own will, have a lawyer review it to make sure it covers all the important bases.

Where to Store it?

Once your will is written, the best place to keep it is either in a fireproof safe or file cabinet at home, in a safe deposit box in your bank or online at sites like Everplans.com. But make sure your executor knows where it is and has access to it. Or, if a professional prepares your will, keep the original document at your lawyerʼs office. Also, be sure to update your will if your family or financial circumstances change, or if you move to another state.

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

50+CLUBICE CREAMSOCIAL MAY 3

St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club of Westwood writes, “Come join us at our Annual Ice Cream Social, to be held at our next meeting, on Wednesday, May 3 at 1 p.m. in the school gym. New members are always welcome. Coffee, tea and cake will be served as well. For more information call Elaine at (201) 664-7037.

PASCACK VALLEY

Spring Luncheon

Looking ahead, St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club of Westwood holds its Spring Luncheon on Wednesday, June 7 at Madeleineʼs Petit Paris, Northvale. Cost is $50. Sign up forms will be available at the May 3 meeting or by calling Angie at (201) 666-3888.

31STKIDSFISHING CONTEST APRIL 29

Itʼs back! The Friends of the Pascack Brookʼs 31st Annual Kids Fishing Contest is on for Saturday, April 29 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine.

Fish the Pascack Brook between St. John R.C. Church in Hillsdale and Brookside Place in Westwood. Judging is at the police booth by Veterans Park in Hillsdale. There will be trophies and prizes for the largest trout caught for each age group.

Rain or shine, the event is open to all children aged 4–16.

“The Friends of the Pascack Brookʼs 31st Annual Kids Fishing Contest is dedicated in memory and honor of Rich Correri. Rich will forever be a member of the Friends of the Pascack Brook.”

That’s the spirit! A 2022 contest participant. Photo: Danielle O’Brien.

PASCACK VALLEY

Sundial Garden Club is rosy May 1

The Sundial Garden Club is pleased to announce a presentation, “Top Ten Roses for Your Garden,” by Jeffrey Van Pelt on Monday, May 1 at 7 p.m. The club meets at the Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave., in Hillsdale.

Van Pelt is the retired supervisor of horticulture for the Somerset County Park Commission. He oversaw the maintenance of the Colonial Park Gardens and golf course, and designed and directed the installation of landscape plantings throughout the park system. He also oversaw the maintenance of the Rudolph W. Van der Goot Rose Garden.

He is an avid organic home gardener who enjoys growing vegetables, herbs, and perennials, especially roses.

Van Pelt says he is aware that roses have a bad reputation for being hard to grow due to numer-

Jeffrey Van Pelt presents “Top Ten Roses for Your Garden”on Monday,May 1 at 7 p.m

ous disease and insect problems. In this lecture he will discuss roses that will perform well in most garden situations without the need of constant spraying for insect and

disease control. Have your rose questions answered by an expert. The club welcomes all gardeners and would-be gardeners.

MILITARYBRIDGE APRIL 27

The NJSFWC Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club is pleased to invite you to an evening of military bridge on Thursday, April 27 at the Montvale Senior Center on Memorial Drive. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. Play starts soon thereafter.

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

No formal knowledge of bridge is needed; having any might even prove a liability. There will be people available to teach participants how to play the game.

The event includes tricky tray raffles, a 50/50 raffle and a variety

of refreshments to enjoy with your friends and neighbors while helping to raise money for local charities.

Tickets for military bridge are $15 per person. All funds raised will be disbursed by the club to local charities and scholarships as well as the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation, the two-year special project of the New Jersey WomensʼClubs.

Seating is limited.To secure your place, your check should be mailed to the Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club, PO Box 3, Park Ridge, NJ 07656.

Seats can be reserved, and questions answered, by calling Elaine Mooney at (201) 391-4947 or Elaine OʼBrien at (201) 5739132.

Calendar:

FROM PAGE 24

• Tuesday, April 25 at 1 and 7 p.m.: Friends of the Library

• Wednesday, April 26 at 10

a.m.: Baby Time, to age 2. At 10:30 a.m.: Meet and Play: Playgroup for River Vale residents ages 0–3 with parent or caregiver.

Registration required. At 1:30 p.m.: Alphabet Story Time: For ages 3–5. Registration required. At 6 p.m.: Exploring the Night Sky; registration required.

• Thursday, April 27 at 10

a.m.: Morning Book Club : Registration required. At 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga in-person; first come, first served. Doors open 15 minutes prior to scheduled class time. River Vale residents receive priority. At 4 p.m.: Tweens and Teens Craft: Birdhouses: Grade 4 and up. Registration required.

• Friday, April 28 at 10 a.m.: Knit and Crochet Group. At 1 p.m.: Afternoon Mah Jongg Club

• Saturday, April 29 at 1 p.m.:

Acute Inflections Jazzy R&B Concert. Registration required.

T TOOWWNNSSHHIIP P O OF F

W WAASSHHIINNGGTTOON N 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586

twpofwashingtonpl.org

• Weekly Story Times (see website).

• Monday, April 24 at 5:30 p.m.: Cartooning With Mr. John, grades 3–12; explores cartoon characters and techniques. Please register.At 6:30 p.m.: Book Club Aprilʼs title: “The Henna Artist” by Alka Joshi. Mayʼs meeting is May 22: “Maybe You Should Talk to Someone,” memoir by Lori Gottlieb.

• Tuesday, April 25 at 5:30 p.m.: Mat Yoga, all levels of practice. Bring a mat and any props you may need, such as blocks, straps, or bolster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in.

• Wednesday, April 26 at 4 p.m.: Wholesome Hearts Nature Program, ages 4–8. Register.

•Thursday, April 27 at 11

Exercise: Coach

FROM PAGE 29

Regardless of your age, it is important to be aware that the gradual nature of muscle mass and strength loss compounds yearover-year, and by the time most people reach age 60, they have unknowingly lost up to 30% of their adult strength.

Irrespective of this scientific fact, you can decelerate the decline and make direct improvements to your strength, mobility, tennis and golf game, by starting a strength training routine today

The specially trained and friendly coaches at The Exercise Coach in Midland Park and Hillsdale are inspired and excited when members place a priority on their health, and how astonished mem-

bers are to see measurable progress in their strength after only a short time.

For more information visit https://exercisecoach.com. The

Exercise Coach is a by-appointment personal training studio. To arrange for your free consultation and free sessions: call/text (551) 223-1101 for Hillsdale (100 Park Avenue Suite 7) and (551) 2231103 for Midland Park (666 Godwin Ave. #131).

The Exercise Coach just announced its partnership with Renew Active® and if you are a member of United Healthcare Medicare Plan, call to learn if your plan qualifies you for four personal training sessions per month at no cost to you.

a.m. and noon: Chair Yoga. From 6 to 7 p.m.: Social Stitching, drop in. At 6:30 p.m.: Parents Helping Parents, a social group for parents to meet monthly to assist each other in navigating parenthood. Coffee and light snacks.

• Friday, April 28 at 1 p.m.: Adult Coloring and Craft Group. Refreshments served.

• Saturday, April 29 at 10:30 a.m.: Mat Yoga, all levels of practice. Bring a mat and any props you may need, such as blocks, straps, or bolster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in.

W WEESSTTWWOOOOD D

49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583

westwoodpubliclibrary.org

• Monday, April 24 at 3:45, 4:05, and 4:25 p.m.: Math Rookies , grades K–3. Registration required. At 7 p.m.: LVPV ESL Class, beginner.

• Tuesday, April 25 at 9 a.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class , advanced.At 11 a.m or 7 p.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class intermediate. From 7:30 to 9 p.m.: LVPV Online ESL Tutor Train-

ing Workshop (virtual).

• Wednesday, April 26 at 10:30 a.m.: Peek-a-Book Story Time Registration required. At 3:45 p.m.: Open Lego Building: (K–3) downstairs; registration required.

• Thursday, April 27 at 9 a.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class , Advanced, registration required. At 11 a.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class, intermediate

• Friday, April 28 at 11 a.m.: Knitting and Crocheting Club Registration required.

Concert: A father gives back; EpiPalooza IV April 29

scans, MRIs, EEGs, Iʼm sure they were all new to me. The initial neurologist did not have a bedside manner that fit my personality. Months later, we found the best pediatric neurologist out there. Dr. Van Slooten.”

He says, “We were supposed to do a 24-hour EEG in the weeks after the seizure; however, I had another tonic clonic seizure. It was at that point, I was diagnosed with epilepsy, which is classified as having two or more unprovoked seizures.”

Perrone says, “I was then prescribed medication. Trying to find the right dosage led to a lot of sickness and vomiting. But, I have been on daily medication since that day. And thankfully, I havenʼt had a seizure since.”

When his older daughter, then 4, had her first seizure, Perrone says “I realized I had to give back to the epilepsy community. I founded EpiPalooza and put on a concert to raise money and awareness for epilepsy. I never looked back.”

Perrone says, “While my daughter has struggled a little more than me, with 11 seizures, we still know how lucky we are, as there are 3.4 million people in the U.S. who live with epilepsy and some face challenges daily.”

He says on his event site, of his daughterʼs seizures, “It began as a focal seizure which led to two tonic-

clonic seizures that day. There was a nine-month period before her second seizure. At that point, she began daily medication. Over the course of the next nine months, her body went through eight more seizures. During that time, the doctors tried tweaking her medication. Her seizures have historically been focal seizures occurring after she falls asleep.”

After the 10th seizure, he says, “In addition to her medication, we

switched her to the modified Atkins diet. We continued that for a period of time and then transitioned to a modified diet including no added sugars. For over a year, she was seizure-free with the medication and diet until a breakthrough seizure in September 2021.”

She recently celebrated being a year seizure-free.

“She is now 8 years old and continues the same diet. We could

Matt Perrone grew up in the Township of Washington and lives in North Carolina.He’s bringing his benefit concert,EpiPalooza IV,to Teaneck April 29.

not be any prouder of this second grader as she is strong, brave and filled with tenacity.”

Perrone credits his mother for all that she gave him. “I never recognized how difficult it must have been to see me have my seizures. As she was the one to witness both of mine. Then, I would see my daughter, as I held her in my arms as she had her first seizure. It was heartbreaking. Only then, was I able to understand what my mom went through,” he tells Pascack Press

He also recalls Charlie Devine, a friendʼs dad in the township who recently passed away.

“Charlie Devine was a man that everyone could afford to be a little bit like. He and his family have been like a second family to me. His son, Brian and I became friends in grade school and I always knew that no matter the time, the day, the holiday, I was always welcome. Charlie was

WOODCLIFF LAKE

always there for advice, even once I moved to North Carolina.”

And he recalls, fondly, his freshman math teacher, Judith Coutts. “She taught me geometry in 9th grade and was the advisor in the math club. I eventually became a math major at James Madison and then became a math teacher at Bergen Catholic. I came back to let her know and she was so kind and gave me a geometry book and resources. She was a great teacher and really cared about the students.”

He says, “Over the years, Iʼve tried to find her on social media but no luck.”

This is the fundraiserʼs first time in New Jersey, supporting CURE Epilepsy and the Epilepsy Foundation. Itʼs been more than 15 years since Perrone has played a show in New Jersey; he says heʼs very excited.

“In doing EpiPalooza, I try to educate people and let them know that epilepsy is a lot more common than people think, as 1 out of 26 people in the U.S. will develop it at some point in their life,” Perrone says.

He adds, “Itʼs important for people living with epilepsy to know, but also the parents and caregivers that there is a strong correlation between epilepsy and mental health. Adults with epilepsy are twice as likely to report depression than those without and those with active epilepsy are three times as likely.”

The fundraising goal is $15,000, with employer matching available. For more information or to get tickets, visit epipalooza.net

Blood drive, women’s shelter aid

Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley, 87 Overlook Dr., invites you to its American Red Cross Blood Drive on Mitzvah Day, April 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pre-register at the link (QR code) using RapidPass. Thereʼs also a collection of full-size

toiletries (not travel/hotel size) such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. to be donated to the Center for Hope and Safety, a shelter for women in our community For more information call (201) 3910801.

Arbor: Week of events rooted in a healthy tree canopy

FROM PAGE 1

500-year-old Salem Oak, which the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee picked up from the New Jersey Forest Service in Jackson Township.

The invitation reads, “Weʼre excited to have you help us plant red maple trees in honor of Arbor Day!”

The planting schedule is as follows:

• Tuesday, April 25 at 5 p.m. in Brookside Park;

•Wednesday, April 26 at 6 p.m. in Nugent Park;

• Thursday, April 27 at 6 p.m. in Overbrook Park;

• Friday, April 28 at 6:30 p.m. in Jake Voorhis Park; and

•Concluding celebrations Saturday, April 29 at 9:15 a.m. in Hegeman Park.

Come ready to plant rain or shine. Canʼt make the celebrations? You can request a free tree for your curb line. Visit the Shade Tree Committee page on the Borough of Westwood website, westwoodnj.gov, for the tree request link.

The committee tells Pascack Press, “A healthy shade tree canopy is vital for suburban communities as trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) and release oxygen back into the air. In just one year, an acre of mature trees can absorb the amount of CO2 produced by driving a car 26,000 miles. This same acre of mature trees can provide enough oxygen for 18 people.”

Other benefits of having a tree

Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee says a healthy shade tree canopy is vital for suburban communities as trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) and release oxygen back into the air.In just one year,an acre of mature trees can absorb the amount of CO2 produced by driving a car 26,000 miles.This same acre of mature trees can provide enough oxygen for 18 people.

canopy:

• Trees cool community streets by providing shade and releasing water vapor in the air through their leaves.

•Trees conserve energy by reducing air conditioning needs by up to 50%.

•Trees create a habitat for wildlife.

• Trees reduce water pollution by preventing stormwater runoff.

•The leaf canopy muffles the noise from roadways.

•Trees shield children and adults from ultraviolet rays.

•Trees increase property values.

•Trees provide aesthetic beauty while cleaning the air.

Operations Plan passes Mayor Ray Arroyo and the Borough Council approved and adopted the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee 2023–2024 Operations Plan this March. The Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee (WSTC) was created to provide guidance on the planting, maintenance, education, and preservation of all Borough trees. Its mission is to plant as many new trees as possible within the borough, while maintaining and expanding the boroughʼs tree

canopy, and to educate the community on the value and importance of trees.

Follow the Westwood Shade Tree Committee on Facebook.

Council votes to indemnify chief against officer’s lawsuit

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

EMERSON

Borough Council approved a resolution April 18 to indemnify Police Chief Michael Mazzeo from a lawsuit filed against him and the Borough of Emerson by a borough police officer who claims the chief retaliated against him for raising issues as the police unionʼs local representative.

The resolution, No. 131-23, was approved following a closed session about 10 p.m. on April 18,

The resolution to indemnify — hold harmless and/or compensate — Mazzeo passed 5-0. No public comments on the resolution

were made by the council or mayor. Councilperson Kelly Moore was absent.

In brief, the 13-page Superior Court civil lawsuit filed by Police Officer Anthony Mazzo accuses Mazzeo of multiple counts of violating his civil rights, including retaliatory actions, and creating a hostile work environment.

The lawsuit states, “As a result of (Officer) Mazzoʼs efforts to properly and effectively represent the members of PBA Local 206, and raise breaches of the contract, as well as properly perform his duty of fair representation to members of PBA Local 206, the Defendants have retaliated against Mazzo.”

The lawsuit, filed March 27

in Superior Court by Dvorak & Associates LLC, Metuchen, alleges a half-dozen specific instances of Mazzeoʼs retaliation. These allegations included: yelling and berating Mazzo in front of others; calling Mazzo not promotable for not writing enough tickets; saying Mazzo “bucks” the chief and needs to fall in line or it wonʼt fare well for him; maintains his PBA (Police Benevolent Association) activity shows Mazzo is not a good fit for special assignment positions, including School Resource Officer; advised Mazzo that it is the chief that approves information to be brought to the PBA Local 206 membership and threatened to cut the time of PBA members to attend local union

activities; and when Mazzo raised an issue about overtime, he claimed Mazzeo threatened retaliation because his boots were not shined and said Mazzeo “incomprehensibly claimed” that he should file grievances against PBA members for any violations of police department policies.

The suit demands a trial by jury with six jurors. The Superior Court case was assigned to the Hon. Judge Anthony R. Suarez.

The lawsuit notes, “Anthony Mazzo has been employed as a police officer for the Borough of Emerson since Jan. 1, 2011.

Mazzo has been a member of the Pascack Valley PBA since 2011, the Emerson Representative of PBA 206 since 2014, and the State

Delegate of PBA Local 206 since 2019.”

Mazzoʼs lawsuit charges five counts against Mazzeo:

• A deprivation of the rights secured by the Employer/Employee Relations Act;

• Violation of the Conscientious Employee Protection Act;

•Violation of the state law against discrimination;

• Violation of NJ Civil Rights Act; and

• Violation of the Borough Handbook.

Borough Attorney John McCann said an attorney from the Joint Insurance Fund would represent Mazzeo and the borough.

Eloquent: Cultural exchange blooms in district

FROM PAGE 1 homes.

Welfel — also WRHS debate team co-advisor, Hillel Club advisor, and World Cultures Club advisor, and in-service leader for mentoring program for new teachers — said he ran a similar trip in 2019 with 19 students and three chaperones.

Welfel told Pascack Press, “Itʼs a great thing for the district, for the school, for the community Itʼs an authentic experience — I donʼt know how much more authentic we can get without actually going to the country ”

He said, “The end goal is to repay them — maybe next year to visit them end of the year, or the following year. So weʼre trying to build in a back and forth. Weʼre trying to work out the specifics, but weʼre pushing to go.”

ʻWe had a great time hosting…ʼ

Local families tell Pascack Press this yearʼs experience, the capstone of video exchanges and other projects both schools have been partnering on, was magnifique

The Chevrier family said, “We had a great time hosting a sweet French student. Our daughter enjoyed taking her out to eat, shop, and hang out with friends. It was lovely because her friends

also had French students staying with them, so they could all hang out together —and they had a lot of fun!”

They added, “It also gave our daughter an opportunity to practice communicating in French, which my husband and I found beautiful to hear.”

They said “Having a student from another country live with us for a week really opened our eyes to the similarities and differences between growing up in the U.S. and France. It made us very aware of things we take for granted about our own lifestyle, as we sought to explain them.”

And they offered reflections on specific experiences:

“Communication required creativity. While we were able to speak some French and our student was able to speak some English, there were topics that were more complicated to discuss. Pictures helped, as did demonstration (pantomime), writing out words or finding another way to say what we were trying to say. And sometimes we just needed to simplify. But there were times when we thought he understood our English and by his response we realized that he didnʼt, and Iʼm sure he found the same thing with our French.”

And, they said, “Teenagers are still teenagers regardless of

where they live. They need down time and alone time. They like to spend time having fun with their friends. And they like their cell phones!”

The Ferreira family told us, “As a family of five, with a new baby, we were a little nervous

about hosting Shawn for a week. I can only say that the whole experience was extremely pleasant and rewarding for all of us.”

They said, “By opening our doors, we were able to briefly experience a new culture, and in turn, also share ours. Together we

were an eloquent mixture of languages, cultures, ethnicities and experiences.”

They also said, “We truly appreciate the courage it takes to join a new family of strangers, even briefly, and have everyday be as if they were always there.”

Veolia: VIPs welcome Finn the fish to reservoir

FROM PAGE 18

Jim Swaim of Environmental Sculptures created Finn along with 80 other sculptures placed in the U.S. and internationally for the purpose of recycling and keeping public areas near waterways clear.

“Every time I get the chance to build one of these sculptures, it transforms the area and its possibilities,” Swaim said. “When anybody takes a look at one of these sculptures they understand there is a problem with plastic. Itʼs undeniable that it is doing damage to wildlife and our environment.”

Veolia Group says it aims to be the benchmark company for ecological transformation. With nearly 220,000 employees worldwide, the Group designs and provides game-changing solutions that are both

useful and practical for water, waste and energy management. Through its three complementary business activities, Veolia helps to develop access to resources, preserve available resources and replenish them.

In 2021, the Veolia group provided 79 million inhabitants with drinking water and 61 million with sanitation, produced nearly 48 million megawatt hours and recovered 48 million tonnes of waste.

Alan Weland,VP/GM,Veolia New Jersey operations; Michael Ghassali, Montvale mayor, BA Hillsdale; James Tedesco,Bergen County Executive;Tom Sullivan,Bergen County Commissioner chair; Rodolphe Bouichou, president, Veolia Municipal Water;State Sen.Holly Schepisi;WCL Council President Jennfier Margolis; WCL Councilmember Nicole Marsh;Kevin O’Connor,director external affairs.

American and French students break bread at Westwood Regional High School in late March.The cultural exchange was well received by families Jeff Welfel photo

Veolia photo

A limited number of memberships will be offered to nonresidents, so get your registrations in early once they are avail-

able.

New non-residents must be sponsored by a Park Ridge resident or prior pool member.

Membership rates remain what they were in 2019:

• Resident family: $410

• Resident single: $300

• Resident seniors: Free

• Non-resident family: $510

• Non-resident: single: $360

• Non-resident senior: $75/$100 per couple (both must be 65 or older).

Registration is available electronically from Feb. 15 on the Park Ridge Municipal Pool page at parkridgeboro.com. Note the registration due dates to avoid a $35 late fee. If electronic signup is not possible, paper pool registration forms can be picked up at the

pool office weekends, from May 6, from noon to 3 p.m.

Please read the pool information packet concerning hours of operation, guest fees, swim lessons and other important information by clicking on the link on the Park Ridge Municipal Pool page page.

The Park Ridge Municipal Pool normally provides swim les-

sons and such activities as competitive swim and dive teams, arts and crafts, story time, Red C ross lifeguard training, and other special events as posted throughout the summer. For more information visit parkridgeboro.com or write pool@parkridgeboro.com

CROSSING GUARD P/T BORO OF EMERSON.

The Borough of Emerson, Bergen County, NJ has an opening for a P/T Crossing Guard. Experience preferred but will train. Background check required. Approximately 10 hours per week. Apply at Borough Hall, Police Department, 146 Linwood Avenue, Emerson. EOE.

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