CAKE, CARDS, AND TALENT! CAKE, CARDS, AND TALENT!
Hillsdale aglow amid 125th anniversary revels
ELECTION HOPEFULS SETHOT PRIMARY BALLOT
WCL filing
suggests a mayoral mail-in campaign
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESSCOUNTY SAYSVETS TARGETED IN FRAUD
Bergen Countyʼs administrator confirmed that a fraudulent letter dated March 13, 2023 — on fake Bergen County letterhead — had been circulating through the veterans community over the past few days.
Admin Thomas J. Duch, Esq., who also is county counsel, said in a memo to the Bergen County veteran community on March 24, “The letter appears to be issued by the Division of Veterans Services here in the county That is not the case.”
He said, “The letter is a most
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See COUNTY on page 36
Students’ birthday cards to Hillsdale added to the revels at the125th birthday celebration at Pascack Valley High School on Saturday, March 25. Everyone in town was invited to join the celebration and submit a card. Afterward,cake was served,as was a spectacular Hillsdale’s Got Talent. Hillsdale Happenings photo.
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NEARLY 200 PEOPLE filled the Pascack Valley High School auditorium on March 25 to watch 15 talented local performers put on a free show to celebrate Hillsdaleʼs 125th birthday party.
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The well-attended events were the third and fourth community celebrations this year, following a historical presentation and a rollicking square dance.
On April 8, an Easter Egg Hunt will be held in Beechwood Park from 9 to 9:30 a.m., followed by a free “Bagels With the Bunny.” (Details are shared on the 125th anniversary Facebook page and at hillsdale125thanniversary.com.)
Photos and Hillsdaleʼs Got Talent performance clips are posted on the 125th Anniversary Facebook page.
Featured performers included Cooper Rego, a comedian who performs in New York City; Sam
COMMUNITY SEDER
PAGE 24
Continued on page 31
Four of five Pascack Valley mayors up for reelection will likely face challenges this November based on Primary Election candidates running in opposing parties. An incumbent Republican mayor will need to mount a write-in campaign due to a problem with filing petitions he submitted.
The filing deadline was 4 p.m., Monday, March 27 for all Primary Election candidates. This yearʼs Primary Election is Tuesday, June 6, with early voting June 2–4. This yearʼs General Election is Tuesday, Nov. 7.
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Woodcliff Lake
Two-term Woodcliff Lake Republican Mayor Carlos Rendo announced March 27 on his Facebook Live that the petitions he submitted to run for reelection were found “insufficient” and “defective” and his name — and running matesʼnames — would not be appearing on the Primary Election ballot on June 6. He called the petition problem a “snafu” for his campaign.
See ELECTION on page 6
“A bom will go off at 1 o’clock.” That was the message that Westwood High School Principal Maurine Coppens discovered in his morning mail on April 1, 1958. Kristin Beuscher reports. PAGE 4
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be ashamedʼPASCACK VALLEY
ʻsnafuʼ
Thanks for fundraiser coverage
To the editor:
PASCACK PRESS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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coach gaining ground,” March 27, 2023; the fundraiser is at https://gofund.me/d5357f5d.]
Mr. Snyderʼs thoughtful presentation of Harryʼs fight for his life garnered another $6,000 in donations from people across the Pascack Valley. As of today [March 28], 108 kind souls have donated $16,549 to help Harry receive and recuperate from kidney transplant surgery without losing his home.
I believe the ultimate goal of raising $50,000 is still attainable thanks in large part to Mr. Snyder
and the Pascack Press bringing the story of this humble healer to light.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth Spaeth EmersonWhy school referendum was ‘doomed’
To the editor:
HILLSDALESCHOOL superintendent Robert Lombardy has expressed disappointment over town votersʼdecisive rejection of an $82.7 million bond issue to replace the aging George White Middle School (“District Regroups after Bond Bid Fails,” Pascack Press, March 20, 2023).
His dismay is understandable, but there are two interrelated and abundantly clear reasons for that rejection.
First, the middle school project was expected to increase property taxes on the average Hillsdale home by an estimated $1,130 per year Since Hillsdaleʼs tax rate is already the highest in this part of Bergen County, an increase of this magnitude would have raised voter hesitancy in any event.
Second, the community has already been roiled by the Hillsdale Borough Councilʼs vague and ever-evolving plans to build one (or two?) community centers along with upgrades to Centennial Fieldʼs playing surface. The community center(s) idea emerged after a proposed senior center drew little public interest. These projects would require an unclear amount of additional
with four
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 stu-
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dent at any accredited institution of higher education: college, business, nursing, or technical school.
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• 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.
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• 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
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.
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property tax increases beyond the $1,130 sum anticipated for the school project alone.
In effect, the school referendum was doomed by the doublebarreled combination of its cost and Borough Councilʼs dubious initiatives, both of which would hit taxpayersʼpocketbooks. In Maywood, 72% of the voters approved a referendum for significant upgrades, including HVAC systems, to two century-old schools (The Record, March 15, 2023). That initiative will raise the average Maywood residentʼs property taxes by a projected $336 per year. In Hillsdale, nearly 64% of the voters rejected a referendum which alone would cost taxpayers more than three times the Maywood tax hike.
Hillsdaleʼs superintendent is
CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
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
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TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON
A traffic impact analysis review by Boswell Engineering finds that traffic to and from a proposed 17,100-square-foot strip mall “can be significantly higher” than estimates provided by the applicant, owing to restaurant space proposed on the site.
The Boswell Engineering review of a Dean & Dolan traffic impact analysis finds “a disconnect” with the plans filed, and notes that the traffic analysis only used “trip generation rates” for a proposed strip retail plaza, and not a restaurant use.
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The next Zoning Board hearing is April 18, at Council chambers, in-person and on Zoom.
The Boswell review letter, dated March 21, was posted online late on March 23, two days after the March 21 hearing was postponed at the applicantʼs request.
At a prior hearing, Zoning Board members approved an independent review of the traffic study, which found a peak-hour increase of 43 vehicles, which was viewed as not significant.
Gary Dean, the traffic engineer, said the increase was “inconsequential” to traffic volume at the intersection, noting the ongoing intersection upgrades being constructed by Bergen County. (Both Pascack Road and Washington Avenue are county roads.)
The Boswell review lists 15 concerns with the applicant traffic
P Paassccaacck k P Prreesss s
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welcomes press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements an event photographs from all towns in the Pascack Valley. Send all news to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net
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studyʼs findings and “requests a point-by-point written response to these comments.”
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“With a portion of the site designated for restaurant rather than retail use, trip characteristics need to be identified and discussed. Hours of operation and numbers of trips need to be reflected. Weekday morning traffic counts were not collected and will be needed, if the sites will be opened during the morning periods,” states the review letter.
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The Boswell letter also dings the traffic study for not accounting for a potential drive-through use on the site, recent traffic disruptions due to the Pascack–Washington intersection upgrades, and not taking into account the new traffic signalʼs timing.
Moreover, the letter questions where the proposed retail plazaʼs “banked parking” spaces exist, the turning radius for large semi-trailer trucks encroaching on parking and curbs, a utility pole and driveway that appear to be impediments along Washington Avenue, possible lane blockages from trucks turning from Pascack Road, a need to accommodate a frontloader refuse truck, and several issues with a plaza entry driveway along Washington Avenue.
“We welcome the opportunity to work with the County and the applicant on our comments, which
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may run counter to the Countyʼs comments,” writes John Yakimic, township engineer, with Boswell Engineering.
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The March 21 Zoning Board hearing was anticipated to offer testimony from the townshipʼs engineer, Boswell Engineering, on an independent review of applicant 660 Pascack Realty LLCʼs traffic study, prepared by Dean & Dolan of Somerville.
The study found an increase of 43 vehicles during peak travel times, which were deemed “inconsequential” to overall traffic volume, given recent improvements to the well-traveled intersection of two county roads.
Resident Michael Agnello, who has criticized the applicantʼs traffic study and drainage basin calculations, which were used by NJDEP as one basis for removing a tributary running behind his home from protected status, said the Boswell review letter shows that the applicant was “only presenting the information that looks good for this project.”
Agnello said the Boswell review letter pointed out numerous discrepancies in how the applicant calculated traffic volumes and a proposed strip mallʼs impacts on traffic flow.
He said the Boswell letter points out traffic flow concerns only found with an independent
study of the applicantʼs traffic analysis. He told Pascack Press he would also call for an independent study of how the waterway behind his home was removed from Category One status due to drainage
basin calculations that changed over the years.
He said, “My argument is if the applicant did this with the
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CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
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Bckintime... Bckintime...
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For the love of bees! PV club drops truth balm
HILLSDALE
Members of the Pascack Valley High School Beekeeping Club spent an afternoon in March learning how to make poured beeswax candles and beeswax lip balm.
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PVspokeswoman Mary Doherty tells Pascack Press that students learned that beeswax is a superior material for candles as it is made naturally and cleanses the air with negative ions.
“Participants threaded wicks through rubber candle moulds and poured in melted wax to set overnight resulting in beautiful can-
April-fool-hardy
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“ABOM will go off at 1 oʼclock.”
That was the message that Westwood High School Principal Maurine Coppens discovered in his morning mail on April 1, 1958. The poor speller behind the missive had signed it, “Your Enemies.”
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We now know this was an April Foolʼs Day prank that went too far, but 65 years ago it prompted the evacuation of Westwood High School.
In those days Westwood High was located at Third Avenue and Mill Street in Westwood, now the location of condominiums. The current regional high school on Ridgewood Road in the Township of Washington came six years later.
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After reading the threat, Principal Coppens called the Westwood police. A team of police officers, many of them off-duty, and firefighters came to investigate. The men were called by telephone, as opposed to using the fire or air raid siren, in order to avoid alarming the residents.
Police Chief John Lindemann notified the county of the threat and requested a bomb squad, but reportedly was told the problem was a local one.
The kids returned from their classes to their homerooms and were informed about the bomb threat. Although such threats are all too familiar to us in 2023, what followed next would be inconceivable in this day and age.
‘bom’ threat of
1958
Students and teachers alike began searching for the weapon in desks, closets, and lockers before finally being instructed to vacate the building. They followed fire drill procedures, filing out to the street.
Starting at 12:15 p.m. (then just 45 minutes before the threatened explosion), a search team methodically scoured the empty two-story building, going from room to room and looking in every locker, desk, cabinet and closet for any explosive device. The search team included 20 firefighters, eight police officers, the principal, assistant principal, assistant superintendent, and school custodians. They found nothing. The search was discontinued at 1:40 p.m., at which time the students returned to their classes.
School got out late that day in order to compensate for the lost instructional time.
The Associated Press picked up the story and made light of it: “Police and firemen searched through Westwood High School for a ʻbomʼyesterday, but they didnʼt even find a bomb ”
The Herald News out of Passaic ran the story under the headline, “Westwood High School heeds a poor speller.”
Meanwhile, the Westwood Police Department turned its attention toward identifying the person responsible for causing so much trouble.
Since the note was handwritten, police
See BIT on page 28
All-hands push to get nature trail open for Earth Day
BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESSPASCACKVALLEY
An upcoming meeting between local officials, administrators and police chiefs from three towns and Veolia North America hopes to iron out unresolved concerns over the long-discussed nature trail and its planned Earth Day grand opening.
The amenity would be a 1.5mile-long nature trail encircling the Veolia-owned Woodcliff Lake Reservoir and passing through parts of Woodcliff Lake, Park Ridge and Hillsdale.
Hillsdale Mayor John Ruocco told us, “The Hillsdale Police chief attended a meeting with his peers at the Haworth Veolia plant in the early part of (March) to discuss operational and security matters. I understand that the towns want another meeting where the people who actually make things happen — the business administrators — would get together with the elected officials and perhaps law enforcement and attorneys, to take stock of where we are, both operationally and with respect to settling some questions that have come up pertaining to legal risk.”
While it appears unlikely that the Veolia-promised Earth Day (April 22) the trailʼs grand opening will occur, local officials said they hoped a final meeting with Veolia can resolve concerns about surveillance cameras, liability, and estimated local costs — leading to a later spring or summer grand opening, said Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo.
Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake were able to receive statefunded trail improvement grants, but it was not clear if those funds were still available.
While meeting details were not firm at press time, Rendo told us on March 28 that it was hoped that local mayors, police chiefs, business administrators, and some council members would meet soon with Veolia officials to “get on the
same page” and resolve security and liability concerns.
Recently, local officials had discussed aspects of a Veolia licensing agreement for the nature trail — mostly in closed session — that Veolia requires to be signed off by all three towns before final trail improvements can be made and the trail opened.
Rendo said issues related to selection of security cameras, as well as liability issues related to slips and falls on the trail, remain unresolved.
In mid-February, Hillsdale Police Chief Robert Francaviglia expressed trail security concerns; some council members questioned estimated costs for trail and security improvements needed to open up the trail.
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So far, it was unclear if any towns had signed the Veolia trail licensing agreement, but no town had listed a resolution to approve the agreement on recent agendas.
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(See “ʻHome stretchʼbut trailʼs Earth Day opening now uncertain,” Michael Olohan, Feb. 20, 2023.)
Asked for an update on trail progress, Ruocco replied March 21: “I donʼt have an estimate of the cost yet as the steps necessary to get the trail ready are not yet finalized. The cost per town may be less than originally thought (which was roughly $30,000). I continue to believe that we are close to the
finish line, but Earth Day is no longer a realistic target, at least in my mind.”
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On March 21, Veolia
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spokesperson Debra Vial told us, “We are good to go on our end, just waiting on the municipalities to sign agreements and do their part to
get the pathway open. In fact, on April 4, Veolia is placing a sculpture that encourages cleanups and recycling at the site.”
Contemporaries’ dinners to go
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The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood hosted 30 guests at its first Progressive Dinner on Friday, March 24— raising more than $500 to support Meals on Wheels North Jersey.
The night began with a highenergy happy hour at Cafe Anello, where Contemporaries and their guests enjoyed specialty cocktails and conversation before being randomly divided into three groups to enjoy multi-course pre-fixe dinners at Granita Grille, Mezza, and Hanami.
Committee chair Nicole Dragona thanked those restaurants for partnering to craft special menus for this event. “The fundraising efforts could not have been as successful without their generosity ”
Guests were invited to continue their revelry at Five Dimes Brewery, where the resounding questions seemed to be, Whenʼs the next event? (Dragona said a similar event is in the works.)
The mission of The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of
The Contemporaries of the Woman’s Club of Westwood hosted 30 guests at its first Progressive Dinner on Friday,March 24—
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Westwood is to bring together a diverse group of women in an inclusive environment who, through fellowship, volunteerism, and leadership,engage in hyperlocal philanthropy to serve the greater Westwood community.
To learn more including how to become a member, email westwoodcontemporaries@gmail.com
Additional upcoming events and opportunities can be found at instagram.com/westwoodcontemporaries
His running mates will be Julie Brodsky and Joshua Stern, he announced.
“I canʼt explain it right now but weʼre going through this investigation to find out why the petitions were defective,” said Rendo on Facebook Live, archived on his mayorʼs Facebook page.
“Iʼm not happy about it. So if you donʼt see our names on the ballot, not to worry. Weʼre going to engage in a massive vote-by-mail campaign to get our names on the ballot,” Rendo said.
Borough Clerk Debbie Dakin told Pascack Press that the petition for the Republican candidates did not include the minimum of 25 valid, registered Republican voter signatures.
She said if Rendoʼs team each receives at least 25 or more valid Republican signatures during a write-in campaign for the Primary Election — and receives the most Republican votes — their names will be placed on the General Election ballot.
On March 28, Rendo told Pascack Press that his team “sees this as a positive opportunity to get more Republicans to vote by mail ballots. Itʼs an opportunity to energize the base and get them to vote by mail.”
Rendo said this reelection effort would be his last term as mayor if successful. Rendo also ran for lieutenant governor with Republican gubernatorial candidate Kim Guadagnoʼs 2017 campaign. They lost to Gov. Phil Murphy and Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver.
On the Democratic Primary Election ballot are for mayor, Nancy T. Gross, a former councilwoman; and for council, Jared R. Shapiro and incumbent Richard A. Schnoll.
Park Ridge
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In Park Ridge, incumbent Democratic Mayor Keith Misciagna will be on the Primary ballot with Democrat incumbent Robert C. Metzdorf and former councilman Michael Mintz. Running to oppose Misciagna in November, Republicans have nominated Liza M. Falato-Lau for mayor, and incumbent councilmen William Fenwick and John Cozzi for reelection.
Montvale
In Montvale, Republican Mayor Mike Ghassali filed for reelection, along with incumbent council members Theresa Cudequest and Douglas Arendacs.
On the Democratic Primary ballot are Elizabeth Gloeggler for mayor. For council: Alison Barnes and Daniel Galeon.
Hillsdale
In Hillsdale, former Republican councilman Frank Pizzella, a leading voice for redevelopment and downtown rehabilitation, filed
to run for mayor. Incumbent
Republican Mayor John Ruocco, who has battled with the Republican council majority, has filed to run for council, along with Republican newcomer Clemente Osso.
Hillsdaleʼs Democratic chairman, Michael Sheinfield, has filed to run for mayor.
No Democratic council candidates are on the ballot.
Westwood
In Westwood, incumbent Republican Mayor Ray Arroyo filed for reelection. He will be running along with incumbent Republican councilman Christopher Montana and newcomer Lauren Letizia.
On the Democratic side, no mayoral candidates filed.
Incumbent Democratic councilwoman Erin Collins is running for reelection; Lesley Whyard is running for a seat on the council.
Emerson
In Emerson, council Republican incumbents Michael Timmerman and Ashley Rice both filed for reelection in the Primary, while Democrats Jose Organ and Julia Guttilla appear on the ballot.
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Township of Washington
In Township of Washington, the Primary Election features two incumbent Republican council candidates, Desserie Morgan and Stacey DeMarco-Feeney. Republican newcomer George Toole fills the third seat opening, as councilman Steven Cascio did not file for reelection. The Republican team runs under the banner “Republicans For Responsible Government.”
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River Vale
Only River Vale does not have any local Primary races.
The Primary Election allows registered Democratic and Republican voters to select the candidates to represent their parties in the November General Election. Unaffiliated voters can only vote in a primary by declaring a party affiliation — Republican or Democrat — prior to Primary Election day. (Consult your municipal clerk or the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office for details.)
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May 30 is the deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot by mail for the June 6 Primary Election. Mail-in ballots can be mailed or dropped off in one of the approved ballot drop boxes located around Bergen County by 8 p.m. on June 6, Primary Election day.
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School referendum nixed in all six districts; ‘the challenge remains’
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HILLSDALE
The results are official: Nearly 37% of local voters cast ballots in Hillsdaleʼs $82.7 million school bond referendum to replace the century-old George G. White Middle School with voters turning thumbs down by a final vote of 2,001 against, 1,180 in favor.
The final vote totals were certified March 24 by the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office.
Following unofficial results on March 14, before provisional and final mail-in ballots were counted, the referendum was defeated by a margin of 1,947 votes to 1,114 votes. When the final ballot tallies were in, final results showed 54 additional votes against and 66 more in favor
Asked March 28 about his reaction to the bondʼs defeat two weeks after polls closed, superintendent Robert Lombardy said a new plan to move forward will be formulated.
“As we have shared via our inperson meetings,website, virtual forum, building tours and many conversations the setting at George White is in need of significant upgrading and additional space. The Board of Educationʼs most recent referendum question provided a solution to this long talked about problem that was forward-thinking and minimally disruptive to students,” Lombardy said.
However, he said, “We have heard the voters and will work on a new plan that draws in a variety of different stakeholders because the
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challenge remains that George White is out of space and outdated, and the can cannot be kicked down the road much farther.”
The next school board meeting is April 24 at 6 p.m. at Meadowbrook Elementary School.
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Overall, voters defeated the bond proposal with 63% voting no and 37% voting yes. The bond referendum lost in all six local polling districts, some more heavily than others.
In District 1, 40.24% (472 of 1,173 registered voters) voted with 168 favorable and 304 opposed; in District 2, 31.89% (347 of 1,088) voted with 117 in favor and 230 opposed; in District 3, 35.68% (558 of 1,564) voted with 186 in favor and 372 opposed; in District 4, 33.72% (554 of 1,643) voted with 233 in favor and 320 opposed; in District 5, 39.99% (601 of 1,503)
voted with 200 in favor and 400 opposed; and in District 6, 34.98% (588 of 1,681) voted with 244 in favor and 344 opposed.
Mail-in votes totaled 519, or approximately 6 percent, while Election Day voters totaled 30.06%, or 2,601 votes, and provisional votes (63) totaled 0.73%. Of 8,652 registered voters, 3,183 cast ballots, or 36.79% of the electorate.
Generally, school board referendums and elections average a 1520% voter turnout. Most school boards no longer allow a vote on annual budgets though the state imposes a 2% annual increase “cap” to local school budgets. School budgets average 60% to 70% of local tax bills.
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Since January, school officials had ramped up outreach, holding two public middle school tours, a virtual Q&A forum with profession-
als, and released a four-minute-plus video on the need to replace the middle school due to its physical, mechanical and educational deficits.
Also in September 2022, the district went live with a “Road To Referendum” web clearinghouse on the proposal.
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District officials estimated the bondʼs tax impacts would have averaged approximately $1,140 annually, or $95 per month on Hillsdaleʼs average home assessed at $474,172.
The tax impacts would have started in the 2024-2025 tax year, officials said.
School finance officials had also said bond costs were likely to be refinanced over its 30-year term, reducing the tax burden on residents. Had the bond referendum been approved, the district would have received $5.4 million in state aid to construct a new middle school.
Mayor pushes regional group on airplane noise pollution
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PARKRIDGE
Hoping to make “some positive change” in reducing aircraft noise and pollution from private jets overflying Pascack Valley towns on the way to Teterboro Airport, Park Ridgeʼs mayor has asked his nine fellow mayors to form a region-wide community organization to address the issue.
The suggested regional group would be called Taxpayers For
Aircraft Noise Solutions, or TANS, said Mayor Keith Misciagna.
It was not clear how this organization would differ from towns sending individual council members, or residents, to attend Teterboro Aircraft Noise Abatement Advisory Committee (TANAAC) meetings. TANAAC is an advisory committee of member municipalities within five miles of Teterboro Airport, which is managed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
Last fall, TANAAC rejected
the Pascack Valley Mayors Association request for a seat on the advisory board, noting the Pascack Valley towns represented were not within five miles of the airport. (See“Mayors Snubbed On Aircraft Committee,” Pascack Press, Nov. 7, 2022.)
“I am reaching out to each one of you to work together as one united Pascack Valley region. I would like to ask if you each can also appoint a council member and a resident liaison to represent each one of your respected communities as members of TANS,” wrote Mis-
ciagna.
“It is my hope that together, we can work to petition for concrete answers and solutions to obtain some positive change in connection with noise abatement and environmental issues arising from Teterboro Airport for our region,” he added.
Misciagna wrote that TANS would be “tasked with finding workable solutions to the aircraft noise that adversely affects resident quality of life in the Pascack Valley and surrounding towns.”
Mayors throughout Pascack Valley have been complaining about aircraft noise from private jets for years, and lately some, including Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo, have said the volume of planes and noise is increasing, especially on weekends.
Most recently, the PVMA has pressed the airport operator to urge pilots to use an alternate landing
route that takes private jets over Route 17 and minimizes aircraft traffic and noise over Pascack Valley towns. However, airport officials said they can only suggest alternate landing routes to incoming pilots, not mandate them.
Following last yearʼs rejection of the Pascack Valley MayorsʼAssociation request for a seat on TANAAC, the mayors vowed to regroup and continue to press for reducing noise and flight traffic.
Misciagna, a Democrat, has filed to run for reelection this year in Park Ridge. He will be joined by Democrat incumbent Robert C. Metzdorf and former councilman Michael Mintz.
He appointed councilman Greg Hoffman as council liaison to TANAAC and resident Audrey Herget to “spearhead” the TANS initiative.
GETYOURMILITARY BRIDGE TICKETS
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 shortly afterward.
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; it may even prove to be 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
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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 Womensʼ Clubs.
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.
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ROTARY CLUB SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINENEARS
The Park Ridge Rotary Charity Foundation is pleased to announce it is again granting college scholarshipsto local high school students.
Scholarships are available to senior students who live in Park Ridge, Montvale, or Woodcliff Lake.
The service club will select recipients based upon need, scholastic ability, and contributions to the school and the community.
Moreover, one scholarship is available for an eligible Park Ridge High School senior majoring in education. This scholarship is in memory of Dr. Robert Balentine, former superintendent of
Park Ridge High School, who was a member of the Park Ridge Rotary Club for more than 40 years. The completed application with supporting documents should be submitted no later than April 15.
Students will be notified of results in early June. The club will notify schools of a scholarship recipient(s) in advance of presenting the awards at senior assemblies.
For applications, see the guidance departments of Park Ridge High School, Pascack Hills High School, and St. Joseph Regional High Schools, or download the application PDF via parkridgerotaryclub.org
BERGEN BOOK STUDIO
Attention Baseball Fans!
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HOWARD MEGDAL AUTHOR OF THE BASEBALL TALMUD
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Meet & Greet and Signing
SUNDAY, APRIL 9TH 2-4PM Come celebrate our national pastime.
132A Broadway, Hillsdale • (856) 838-3416 info@bergenbookstudio.com • www.bergenbookstudio.com
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The Hillsdale 50+ Club invites all to gather to meet neighbors and friends. The club meets at 11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at the United Methodist Church on Magnolia Avenue between Hillsdale and Washington avenues.
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A trip to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse is scheduled for April 4. This trip includes a wonderful hot lunch and a terrific show, “Million Dollar Quartet.” The cost is $83 for members, $85 for non-members.
The clubʼs overnight trip to
Cape May in May has a waiting list. More trips are planned for the fall. For
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Dear John,
Details tell the story on a Deringer
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Jon, do you have information on this a ntique gun that belonged to my grandfather? It measures 6 3⁄ 4 inches in length.
—John in Montvale
This antique pistol is the easily recognized, quintessential Deringer produced by Henry Deringer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from the late 1830s to 1868.
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This first style 41 caliber belt pistol should have a 3-inch barrel, birdʼs head style butt, checkered walnut stock, and a beautifully acanthus chased German silver lockplate, escutcheon plates, thumb piece, butt inlay and trigger guard.
Your example appears to have remained in very good condition and to be free of damage. A current replacement value for this gun is: $1,000.
This is a very collectible piece of American history much sought after by collectors. My one suggestion: occasionally wipe the gun with two drops of gun oil to prevent rust.
Senior appraiser Jon Felz of R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. answers yourquestions on fine art,American coins,and great antiques.Send your questions and photos to rzmantique@aol.com
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Story on “Nippon” porcelain?
Dear Jon, I have no idea where I got this vase but it has been on my shelf for probably 40 years. It is 6 inches in height and says Hand Painted Nippon on the bottom. What can you tell me about it?
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Who’s going to argue with a Deringer? This specimen is worth an estimated $1,000.
Dear Mary, The term Nippon porcelain is familiar to many people as this mark is found on many pieces of antique imported Japanese porcelain, from vases to teapots.
Nippon was not a company or brand name. This mark is a direct result of compliance with the McKinley Tariff Act of 1891. Then in 1921 the United States customs officials regulated any items imported from Japan should be marked “Made in Japan,” not Nippon.
This makes dating your vase simple:As your vase is marked Nippon it was produced and imported 1891–1921. The mark on your vase can further assist me in dating it to 1900–1905. There are many variations of this mark.
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Although the origin of your vase is Japanese, the hand-painted floral decoration is presented more in the European style. The Japanese at this time were competing with such European porcelain factories as those in the city of Limoges, France; Dresden, Germany; and Staffordshire, England. They were attempting to appeal to the American taste at the turn of the 20th century.
As to the value, sadly Nippon porcelain is one of many antiques and collectibles that have plummeted in value in the past 15 years. The height of the market for Nippon porcelain was 2000–2010. I have owned and sold hundreds of pieces of Nippon porcelain. I couldnʼt keep it on the shelf. The value of your vase 2000–2010 would have been $400. Today itʼs $50 to $75. There is little demand for this type of porcelain today. The younger generation doesnʼt decorate with fine porcelain in their homes.
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Thank you, Mary, for sending the pictures.
R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc.is based at 132 Dexter Ave.,Pearl River, N.Y.Call (845) 735-1313 or visit rzmantiques.com.
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The market isn’t prizing lovely “Nippon”vases as much as it used to.
Boswell: ‘Disconnect’ on strip mall traffic estimate
FROM PAGE 3
traffic study, what did they do to the C1 waterway? Why is the township refusing to know if they misrepresented the waterway too?”
Agnello said that he has offered evidence that disputes the applicantʼs drainage basin calculations. He claims the unnamed tributary requires 300-foot buffers to protect its water quality as it is a Category One waterway, which
feeds into streams that enter into Oradell Reservoir.
Traffic Study Concerns
Boswell notes “a pavement marking detail for a drive-thru, but this type of operation is not men-
tioned in the (applicant) Traffic Impact Analysis. If a drive-thru is proposed, it needs to be evaluated to make sure the site can support this feature.”
The letter notes that the traffic data used in the analysis was done
during ongoing intersection improvements. (Drivers were asked to avoid the intersection for long stretches in 2022 and recently while improvements continued, causing closures, detours
CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
River Vale Senior Friendship Club hosts a pizza party and bingo for members on April 19. The cost is $3 per person, which includes, pizza, refreshments, and one bingo card — extra cards available for $1 each.
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Upcoming events
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• May 17:January–June
birthdays celebrations with musical performance by Francine and Joel.
•The trip to Resorts Catskills is sold out, but the club has a three-day/two-night trip to Lancaster, Penn., Aug. 21–23, for $470 per person, which includes tickets to “Moses”; round-trip transportation; lodging; two breakfasts; two dinners; a guided tour; taxes; and meal and bus driver gratuity. Reservations must be made ASAP — no later than June 10. For information call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.
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MY DAUGHTER SADIE asked me the other day ifI had a first memory of my life. The answer came without a secondʼs hesitation. It dates back to when I was about 3 or 4 years old (and as Sadie would point out, thatʼs a very, very long time ago). Every time the memory comes to mind, I get to relive wonderful Saturdays with my dad.
I HADTHISANNOYINGHABIT when I was young. I was a super earlyriser. Iʼm talking 5 a.m. was a late start for me. My two older sisters, preteens at the time, had already discovered the beauty of sleeping in. My parents, who worked hard during the week, wanted that one day to catch up on their Zʼs. But then there was me. At the break of dawn, I would creep into their room and lift my momʼs eyelid with my finger, happily then proclaiming “Your eye is open! Youʼre awake!”
My parents tried to solve this problem. They first bought me my own TV thinking I could entertain myself for a couple of hours. I knew this was a big deal; even my big sisters didnʼt have one. So for the first week or two, I watched reruns of The Flintstones in black and white. And then I got bored.
Thatʼs when Dad offered the next solution, and it was the one that worked. He told Mom that she
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could sleep, and he would take me for a walk around the Cooper River — a beautiful and peaceful place in South Jersey. A 3-mile trail wraps around it and every step offers something to see. Usually the only noises to hear are the wind blowing through trees or the gentle splashing coming from scullersʼoars.
So every Saturday morning, Dad and I would put on our matching Timberland boots (I believe they were the original hiking boots before hiking boots became a “thing”). He would grab his walking stick. I would grab mine, too, which was basically a twig.
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And we would set off. I had to reach up the whole time to hold his hand. I remember how that arm would start to tingle, probably because the blood wasnʼt circulating likeitshould. But that didnʼt matter. I never wanted to let his
hand go.
A few decades later (or many, as Sadie would correct me), I still have a love for walking. Every morning for the past couple of years, I would drive up to Rockland County to walk around a lake
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populated by swans and ducks. I absolutely adore that lake. But I always wished there were a place closer to home.
I have driven past the Oradell Reservoir countless times. Every time, I would look beyond the
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fence, and wonder what itʼs like on the other side. The water glistens from the sun. Leaves rustle in the breeze. And only water fowl seem to populate it. Encir-
CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
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Bergen County Players (BCP), one of Americaʼs longestrunning little theater companies, is excited to present the jarring family satire “Barbecue,” opening on March 25.
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“Barbecue” is a raucous and fearless take on the classic American family story in a way not seen before onstage. Performances will take place at the Little
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O’Hara’s ‘Barbecue’
Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell, March 25 thru April 22 (Friday and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m). Tickets, priced at $24 (evenings) and $21 (matinees), may be purchased at bcplayers.org , by calling (201) 261-4200 or by visiting the box office at 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell during regular box office
hours.
Under the direction of Peter Colletto, we Join the OʼMallery family as they gather to share some barbecue and straight talk with their sister Barbara, whose addictions and recklessness have forced her siblings to stage an intervention.
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The event soon becomes raucous and unpredictable as stereotypes collide with hard realities.
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Written by Robert OʼHara, Barbecue is a comedic satire that skewers familial relationships and
racial biases, with a twist just before intermission that makes the audience rethink everything that happened in Act 1.
“This play consistently had me laughing out loud as I read it. The play surprises us with its comedic effect. We watch these characters and laugh at their interactions, but later, as we reflect upon the play, those surprises take another direction allowing us to focus our perceptions of their interactions. Through that we come to a new understading of
ourselves and of our reality,” says Colletto.
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Colletto is a life member and has directed numerous main stage productions for BCP –“Rumors,” “Itʼs Only A Play,” “Good People,” “Speed-thePlow,” “Table Manners,” “The Odd Couple” (Female Version), “Fuddy Meers,” “Lend Me a Tenor” (which generated multiple Perry Award nominations), “The Solid Gold Cadillac,” and
CONTINUED ON PAGE 32
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Memories: Veolia’s Watershed Recreation Program
FROM PAGE 12
cled by fence, its allure is even greater since its under lock and key. Many times Iʼve wished I could gain entrance to see whatʼs beyond.
And then, thanks to a friend who volunteers with the watershed, I found out I could. The watershed is overseen by Veolia, the water company. From April 15 through Nov. 30, Veolia runs the Watershed Recreation Program. This allows anyone who applies and pays a nominal fee to obtain a key that unlocks the gates. There are entrances to access and explore the Oradell, Woodcliff Lake, Lake Tappan, and Lake DeForest reservoirs. A passive
HILLSDALE
recreation center, itʼs for walking, fishing and bird watching.
Children aged 5–12 are invited to take part in a free program called the Reservoir Rangers. An interactive course, it teaches
Mobile DMV at West Lot on April 18
Need help from the DMV? Itʼs headed your way. The mobile DMV is inbound April 18 in the West Lot, 411 Hillsdale Ave. Appointments are required for all transactions listed below.
If you are just dropping off license plates, you donʼt need an appointment. To make an appointment, call Borough Clerk Denise Kohan at (201) 497-1552. You will need to provide your name, email address, and telephone number Time slots will be confirmed when making your appointment.
PASCACK VALLEY•Driverʼs license renewal (or name change);
•Registration renewal (no title work at mobile unit);
• Exam permit (no testing at mobile unit);
•Handicap placard;
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•Boat stickers;
•Add veteran designation to license;
•Non-Driver ID. Initial license after passing road test; RealID: (Enforced May 7, 2025.) No appointments available yet.
61,450 Mercedes-Benzes in safety recall
Mercedes-Benz USA LLC is recalling 61,450 vehicles due to a fire risk caused by a faulty air conditioning drain hose installation, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The issue could cause water to pool in the passenger compartment and foot wells, leading to short circuits and perhaps fire.
As well, the emergency call (eCall) feature might become disabled and the doors might not unlock, increasing the risk to those within.
Also, says NHTSA, “the engine may not start or may enter limp-home mode, increasing the risk of a crash.”
Early signs of the problem: the carpet might become wet or the windows might fog up.
The German automaker first became aware of the problem in 2021 but it has not received reports of related injuries or crashes, according to the NHTSA.
Affected models include 2020 and 2021 GLE and GLS SUVs, and the Maybach GLS 600.
Affected owners will be notified by mail by May 16 and instructed to take their vehicles to a local dealership. Dealers will inspect and reinstall the drain
youngsters about the fish in the reservoir, the wildlife and plants that live there, and how to care for the watershed. Meanwhile, in Haworth, guests of all ages can also learn about the watershed from featured guest speakers. In the Northern Valley, there are entrances in Old Tappan, Haworth, and Emerson. My friend offered to take me for a look beyond the locked gates. It was an offer I wasnʼt going to refuse. On a beautiful spring day, we entered through the Haworth entrance. He regaled me with tales
of countless eagles and egrets he had seen there. He explained that trees are never removed even after they fall so that everything remains natural. It felt like a different world.
I could not believe that there was a busy road just yards away. Peaceful, tranquil and completely natural, I realized I had found a gem. A hidden place moments from my home, where I could escape from reality as needed. A beautiful walk near water that I really wished I could do with my dad.
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Two years ago, on the 25th of this month, I held my dadʼs hand for the last time. What I would give to hold it just once more. But walking through the watershed, amid nature and beauty, I was transported back in time. I envisioned Timberland boots on my feet, I felt the twig in my hand as my walking stick, and my other arm tingling from raising it high to hold Dadʼs hand. And I never wanted to let it go.
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
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www.BergenDentalGroup.com dentalbergen@gmail.com
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house, if necessary, at no cost to the owner
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EMERSON
EMERSON COMMUNITY SCHOOLREGISTRATION
Registration for the Emerson Commun ity School is now open! New and updated classes are available for both children and adults.
Popular childrensʼ classes include child renʼs babysitting, robotmakers (a different version of the class from the fall), videomakers and sewing.
You can scan this code for a link to the Emerson Community School’s spring brochure.
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Adult classes include health and recreation, c ooking, languages, special
i nterests, and much more. Registration is open and fills up quickly, so donʼt miss out.
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Check out the b rochure at emersonschools.org then click on the Departments tab, then click on the C ommunity School tab. Classes began the week of March 6.
C ontact persons are Kimberly Della Volpe and Tricia Mancino at ecschool@emersonschools.org.
PASCACK VALLEY
Working through grief, tuning in hope
Check out the podcast “Hope Through Shattered Dreams.” Gina Franco launched this “hope and grief” podcast on Feb. 16, the fourth anniversary of daughter Dominiqueʼs passing.
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Franco tells Pascack Press, “We raised $7,000 for Dominiqueʼs Journey Foundation, which we use for s cholarships. The podcast is on Spotify and 5–7 minutes long. We hosted the event at Valley Burgers and Brew in River Vale, which was amazing.”
F our episodes are out at press time: Welcome; Grief is C yclical, Not Linear ; G uilt WTF ; and Dominiqueʼs Passions
M ik e and Gina Franco started the non-profit Dominiqueʼs Journey [dominiquesjourney.com ] “to honor our beautiful daughter, Dominque Franco, who passed away suddenly on Feb. 16, 2019, at 21. She was our youngest child, our only daughter, with four older brothers who adore her. She was truly our bundle of love, joy, and endless energy.”
Dominque was in her junior
year at the University of Rhode Island, studying to be a nurse, and was president of her sorority. “She lit up the entire room with her amazing smile. She had a heart of gold and was truly determined to change the world and make it a better place.”
The Francos say Dominiqueʼs passion was to help others, especially c hildren. “Her dream job was to be a pediatric oncology nurse at St. Jude Childrenʼs Research H ospital so she could help the children and their famil ies through the toughest fight of their lives.”
Dominque started raising money for St. Judeʼs when she was 5. She started with lemonade stands, then garage sales and various fundraisers — “anything she could do to help. As she got older, she also held fundraisers for a toy drive at Hackensack University Medical Center.”
At 16, she raised enough money to buy holiday toys for all the kids in the oncology department, and continued that tradition each year until her passing.
The Francos say, “Our mission is to keep Dominiqueʼs
spirit and passion alive with Dominiqueʼs Journey Foundation. We will continue her efforts of raising money for St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital and Hackensack University Medical Center, the two organizations that she was so dedicated to helping and supporting.”
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Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
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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 3 at 3:30 p.m.: Afternoon Storytime, ages 2–5.
• Tuesday, April 4 at 11 a.m.: Baby & Me, newborn to 2. At 3:30 p.m: Switch Club, grades 2–4. Registration required for each child per date. At 1:30 p.m: Chair Yoga for Adults. At 6:30 p.m: This and
That Book Club, adults.
• Wednesday, April 5 at 10:30
a.m: Preschool Storytime and Craft, ages 2–5. Register in person.
• Thursday, April 6 at 10:30
a.m: Sensory Storytime, ages 2–5. Register in person.
H HIILLLLSSDDAALLE E 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org
• Monday, April 3 at noon: 10
Warning Signs of Alzheimerʼs
Registration required. At 7 p.m.:
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Sundial Garden Club
• Tuesday, April 4 at 1 p.m.: Mah Jong. At 7 p.m.: Meditation with Cherlyn. Registration required.
• Wednesday, April 5 at 2 p.m.:
Hillsdale Matinees Presents “I
Wanna Dance with Somebody.”
Registration required.
• Friday, April 7 at 10:30 a.m.: Chair Yoga for Adults. Registration required.
• Saturday, April 8 at 3 p.m.: Local author Jackson Rezen Registration required.
M MOONNTTVVAALLE E
• Thursday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m: ChessWired for Kids. Registration required. At 7:30 p.m: Adult Chess Basics. Registration required.
rivervalelibrary.org
• Monday, April 3 at 10 a.m.: Spring Story Time: Hear great stories and enjoy fun songs and coloring. Registration required. For ages 2–5. At 11 a.m., noon, and 2, 3, and 4 p.m.: Session 1: Spring Breakout Escape Room: Can you escape the library by the end of spring break?
Grades 4–6. Registration required. You can leave any time.
• Tuesday, April 4 at 10:30 a.m.: Music with Miss Nita: 6 months to 4 years. Registration required. At 1 p.m.: Movie Matinee: “Women Talking ” At 4 p.m.: Childrenʼs Bingo: River Vale grades 1–5. Registration required. At 5 p.m.: Mah Jongg Club: Adult players only. Drop in.
• Wednesday, April 5 at 10 a.m.: Baby Time: To age 2. At 10:30 a.m.: Meet and Play: River Vale residents to age 3 with parent or other caregiver. Registration required. At 6 p.m.: Adult Craft: Ceramic Tea Cup Planter Painting: Residents 18 and up. Registration required.
Emerson Public Library Switch Club,local grades 2-4:Registration required for each child per date.For kids 7–8,a parent/guardian is required to remain in the building for the duration of play
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12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org
• Monday, April 3,10,17, and 24 at 7 p.m: Sketching with Artist Peri. Registration required.
• Saturday, April 8 at noon in the Montvale Council Chambers: “Blood and Ink”: A discussion with local author Joe Pompeo Registration required.
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P PAARRK K R RIIDDGGE E 51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org
•Monday, April 3 at 11:30 a.m.: Yoga.
• Tuesday, April 4 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee.
• Thursday, April 6 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee.
• Saturday, April 8 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Storytime with Miss Eileen
R RIIVVEER R V VAALLE E 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323
• Thursday, April 6 at 10 a.m.: Movie Club: Registration required. At 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga in-person; seats are first come, first served. Doors open 15 minutes prior to scheduled class time. River Vale residents receive priority.
T TOOWWNNSSHHIIP P O OF F
W WAASSHHIINNGGTTOON N 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586
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twpofwashingtonpl.org
• Monday, April 3: Italian Lessons with Bernardo Petrocelli at 6 p.m.
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•Tuesday, April 4, Teen Tuesday Hang-Out Open Craft at 6 p.m. Plenty of supplies to craft whatever youʼd like, and snacks, too! Grades 6–12. At 5:30 p.m.: Mat Yoga All levels. Bring your own mat and any props you may need, such as blocks, straps, or bol-
Township of Washington: Bernardo Petrocelli gives Italian lessons Monday,April 3 at 6 p.m.
ster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in.
•Wednesday, April 5: Movie Matinee at 1 p.m.
•Thursday, April 6: Chair Yoga at 11 a.m. and noon. From 6 to 7 p.m.: Social Stitching organized by Clayton Leadbetter. Social sessions are for those who already know how to knit or crochet — no lessons are taught. Drop in.
• Saturday, April 8: Mat Yoga at 10:30 a.m. open to all levels of practice. Bring your own mat and any props youʼd like, 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 3 at 3:45, 4:05, and 4:25 p.m.: Math Rookies grades K–3. Registration required. At 7 p.m.: Garden Club, registration required.
• Tuesday, April 4 from 7:30 to 9 p.m.: LVPV Online ESL Tutor Training Workshop (virtual).
• Wednesday, April 5 at 3:45 p.m.: Intro to Ré sumé Writing: (grades 9–12) in the upstairs meeting room. Registration required.
• Thursday, April 6 at 3:45 p.m.: Anime Club (grades 6–12). Registration required.
Easter Celebration
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April 9, 2023 Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
on strip mall traffic estimate
FROM PAGE 11 and delays there.)
“Recent historical data should have been used,” says Boswell.
The review says the intersectionʼs new signal timing and sequencing should be used to customize the future traffic study impacts.
In requesting clarification on how many and where the proposed mallʼs “banked” parking spaces will be, the letter asks, “Is it reasonable to assume that ʻshorter duration parkingʼtranslates to more trips, since there will be higher turnover of those spaces?”
Moreover, Boswell questions
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the turning path/radius of large semi-trailer vehicles accessing the site from Pascack Road and Washington Avenue. It also notes a utility pole near the Washington Avenue entrance that needs moving or protecting.
“There is a potential that trucks accessing the site from Pascack Road will spillover into the adjacent through-lane if there are any vehicles waiting to enter.
Trucks exiting the site from Pascack Road can potentially block lanes in the event they want to turn left onto Pascack Road,” states Boswell.
The town engineer notes that site drawings only indicate
50th anniversary vigil with Joan’s Joy April 19 HILLSDALE
Save the date: Wednesday, April 19 at 7 p.m., for a musical “50th Anniversary, Remembering Joanʼs Light,” at the Joan Angela DʼAlessandro White Butterfly Sculpture and Garden in front of the Hillsdale Train Station.
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“The Message of Light Amid Letters of Darkness” by Rosemarie Birri DʼAlessandro will be previewed for the first time at the event, and book orders taken.
The book is a remarkable journey comparing the rise of “heroic activist” Rosemarie DʼAlessandro — and the reverberation of her mission to empower and protect children — with the views of Joanʼs late killer (a former neighbor and teacher) in letters he sent a pen pal from prison.
Taken on Holy Thursday, 1973, Joan was found that Easter.
The Joan Angela DʼAlessandro Foundation honors the memo-
ry of Girl Scout Joan in promoting child safety via programs it provides and legislation it advocates.
“We support neglected and abused children through fun and educational excursions; and we help victims of crime by way of consultation. Joanʼs story has brought hope through awareness and prevention. The lives of thousands will continue to benefit from the impact of her legacy,” says Joanʼs Joy (joansjoy.org).
— John Snyderaccommodating a rear-loading garbage truck, and not a frontloading garbage truck, which adds four feet. It notes, “The turning path for a front-loader should also be evaluated.”
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The Washington Avenue driveway is “problematic” due to vehicles needing to come to a nearly complete stop before enter-
ing, “increasing the potential for rear-end collisions.” Moreover, as vehicles turn right onto Washington from Pascack.”this may cause unexpected conflict for vehicles turning then having to stop or near-stop for a vehicle entering the site.”
Also, the siteʼs Washington Avenue driveway is located where
westbound through-lanes decrease and “may increase the potential for sideswipe collisions,” states Boswell.
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Boswellʼs traffic study review letter can be found on the Zoning Board webpage under Four Season Town Square documents, listed as document number 34.
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Easter Celebration April 9, 2023 Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
Dinner April 15 to help girl get an adaptive wheelchair
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Youʼre invited to a Ramadan charity dinner at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave., on Saturday April 15.
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All proceeds go to Graceʼs Gold Ribbon Gang for a little girlʼs adaptive stroller. Kids are asked to bring a new unwrapped toy to be donated to Columbia Presbyterianʼs Pediatric Oncolo-
gy Unit.
According to Saba Khan of t he Township of Washington, who was the driving force behind her townʼs inaugural Ramadan Crescent Moon Lighting Ceremony, “Ramadan is about giving back, bringing community together. Itʼs a perfect way to share our culture with our Com-
munity.”
She told Pascack Press, “We typically have a feast at Iftar and thatʼs what we will all enjoy. Everyone thatʼs fasting at the event will open their fast with a date and water followed by a quick prayer, done on the side. Those that are not fasting will help themselves to more appetizers and dinner.”
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She said, “We will also have Henna girl there, as that is a huge part of our festivities, and arts and crafts for kids and face painting.”
For tickets and to donate,
visit https://fortheloveofgrace.org
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Township of Washington mom Jennifer Skuches is president of Graceʼs Gold R ibbon Gang, which provides goods and services assistance to Hope and Heroes Childrenʼs Cancer Fund, Alfano Arts in Medicine Program and the Child Life Department of Columbia Presbyterianʼs Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Transplant Unit; and provides goods to hospice patients and bereavement services to families of Columbia Presbyterianʼs Pediatric Oncology, Hematology
and Transplant Unit, local New York/New Jersey families, and ATRT families.
At 6 months old, Grace Skuches was diagnosed with atypical teratoid/rhabdiod tumor (ATRT), an extremely rare, very difficult to treat pediatric brain tumor.
Jennifer Skuches says on fortheloveofgrace.org, “ Though Graceʼs time here was short, she left a lasting impression on everyone she touched. Her tenacity, strength and resilience helped carry us through her brain cancer battle for the past two years.”
—John SnyderEaster Celebration April 9, 2023 Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
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Seniors meet Tuesday, April 11
The Westwood Seniors Club meets at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave., on Tuesday, April 11. A nurse will be
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on hand to take blood pressure from 11 a.m. to noon; entertainment is by Anthony Duke Claus. Be there to sign up for the
Tuesday, June 13 club luncheon at Domani Ristorante Italiano. The cost is $40.
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43rd Annual Good Friday Walk
of Faith
Friday, April 7, 2023 from Noon to 3 P.M.
THEME: The Seven Last Words from the Cross
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ST. ANDREW’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH - SERVICE STARTS AT NOON.
PARKSIDE COMMUNITY CHURCH- SERVICE AT 12:40 P.M.
ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH- SERVICE STARTS AT 1:20 P.M.
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WESTWOOD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH- SERVICE STARTS AT 2:10 P.M.
GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH- SERVICE STARTS AT 2:40 P.M.
READING OF THE PASSION
(PLEASE NOTE- ALL SERVICE TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE AFTER THE FIRST SERVICE.)
Offering for Turkey and Syria earthquake victims. This will be distributed by Embrace Relief: Embrace Relief is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.
WESTWOOD
ST. ANDREW’S 50+CLUB TO ‘PARIS’
The Emerson senior citizensʼ monthly membership meeting is Thursday, April 13 at noon at the clubhouse, 20 Palisade Ave. Refreshments will be served.
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A trip to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse is scheduled for Thurs-
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JUNE 7
day, April 27. This trip includes a wonderful hot lunch and a terrific show, “The Million Dollar Quartet.” The cost is $83 per person. Call Jean Ann Scarano at (201) 483 8104 or Jo Monahan at (201) 265 1933.
Rd., Township of Washington, NJ 201-664-6624
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PALM SUNDAY
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REGULAR MASS SCHEDULE
SAT 5PM, SUN 8AM & 11AM
HOLY WEEK
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HOLY THURSDAY 7:30PM
GOOD FRIDAY 3:00PM
EASTER VIGIL 8:00PM
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SUNDAY 8:00AM & 11:00AM
Invites you
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PALM SUNDAY9a.m. (contemporary) & 10:30a.m. (traditional)
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MAUNDY THURSDAY 7:30p.m.
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GOOD FRIDAYNoon & 7:30p.m.
EASTER FESTIVAL SERVICES
9:00a.m. (contemporar y)
10:00a.m. Easter Egg Hunt
10:30a.m. Instrumentalists and choirs
32 Pascack Rd., Woodcliff Lake, NJ (Corner of Pascack & Church Roads)
201-391-4224 • clc4u2@verizon.net
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www.clc4u.com
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Easter Celebration April 9, 2023 Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
Letters:
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2
correct that the Board of Education needs to go back to the drawing board. However, I would also recommend that Borough Council cancel the community center projects until a new school referendum is held. It is a matter of priorities. I think most citizens would agree that a better middle school environment should take p recedence over a community center whose need is questionable.
The Borough Council and the Board of Education should be aware of each otherʼs activities and the interplay between them. That is not too much to ask. The town is not anti-education. However, its tolerance for simultaneous tax-increasing projects is limited.
Harold B. Shill HillsdaleBackground on towns’ brooks study
To the editor:
JUST TOCLARIFY some of the items in last weekʼs coverage of Westwoodʼs pending approval of a drone study of the Musquapsink and Pascack brooks as they wind through our town [“Hillsdale council floats on drone study of brook,” Pascack Press, March 27, 2023]:
Iʼd brought the idea to my council colleagues after speaking with Washington Township Mayor Peter Calamari. He h ad solicited a proposal from Boswell E ngineering to fly a drone, create a visual r ecord of existing conditions, and make recommendations for infrastructure improvements to increase c apacity and flow along the townshipʼs brooks.
Boswell is also Westwoodʼs borough engineer. Since both towns share the Musquapsink Brook, I thought it made sense for us to obtain a similar proposal for our flood prone waterways. Westwoodʼs governing body has reviewed the Boswell proposal and intends to authorize its execution when we adopt the municipal budget in April.
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After further discussion with Mayor Calamari, Iʼd asked my fellow Pascack Valley mayors if the PVMA [Pascack Valley Mayors Association] would support broadening the study to encompass the waterways in each of our member towns. A PV-wide study generating specific remedial recommendations for each PV town, would outline a credible, comprehensive plan of action — a necessary precursor for seeking any large-scale grant funding.
While the mayors could not commit to funding individual municipal studies (their 2023
budget reviews were just getting started), the PVMA endorsed the overall concept and authorized the letter to Veolia inquiring about t he water companyʼs possible assistance in funding for the initial drone study phase of the plan.
Veolia, under no obligation to contribute, was very open to discussion. But their representatives, quite reasonably, wanted to have a better idea of the costs involved.
Iʼd reached out to Hillsdale Mayor John Ruocco to see if his
council would also solicit a quote from Boswell, on the premise that having the drone study costs for three adjacent flood-prone PV towns would give the water utility a better idea of what a more extensive flyover might cost.
When Hillsdale declined to pursue their own drone study proposal, Mayor Calamari and I decided to meet Veolia officials with our two Boswell proposals in hand. We have been working on scheduling that meeting around M r. OʼConnorʼs (Veoliaʼs rep)
vacation, my surgery, and, just this past week, a death in Mayor Calamariʼs family.
Your article closes by quoting a statement Iʼd made last year averring that “legislative intervention” (S-790 and A-4200) is the only immediate relief measure that can mitigate our local flooding problem. (Note: These bills are formally endorsed by the NJ League of Municipalities.)
That should not be taken to mean the proposed drone study is
April
April
April
We invite you to
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We invite you to ZION
LUTHERAN CHURCH
for worship during Holy Week and Easter
for worship during Holy Week and Easter
Dear Friends in Christ, We are fully open for worship, masks are optional, and all are welcome. Holy Week begins with our Palm Sunday services at 8 and 10:15 A.M. on April 2nd. We will have the distribution of palms for all in attendance.
Thursday, April 6th
Maundy Thursday Service at 12:30 & 7:30 P.M.
Friday, April 7th
Good Friday Walk of Faith begins at Noon at St. Andrews. See the separate ad for complete schedule, we will be at Zion at approximately 1:20 P.M. At 7:30 P.M. Zion will have a Tenebrae Service.
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Easter Eve, April 8th
Easter Eve- Family and Childrens’ service at 4 P.M. Gifts for all children present.
Easter, April 9th
Easter services at 6:30, 8, and 10:15 A.M.
Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
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Community seder Wednesday, April 5
insights, kiddush, matzah, dinner, dessert, and songs.
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Reservations are due April 2. Cover: $80 for adults and $40 for kids 12 and younger. RSVP at valleychabad.org/passover23 or call
(201) 476-0157.
Valley Chabad CTeens gathered on Sunday, March 26, to pack Passover packages for needy families with Passover items donated by Wegmans in Montvale.
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Easter Celebration April 9, 2023 Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
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31STKIDSFISHING CONTEST APRIL 29
Valley Chabad teens in ‘Purim Fiesta’
Valley Chabad Teens gathered “for a fantastic Purim Fiesta” in the CTeen Lounge on Monday, March 6, to celebrate Purim and show their support for patients at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Montvale.
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The program started with the reading of the Megillah, which recounts the story of Purim. Afterward, the teens decorated mugs and cards with words of inspiration, hope and love for the patients.
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The teens then enjoyed a fun, spirited competition in creating presentations portraying the story of Purim. Before leaving, each teen received a CTeen smoothie machine as a special Purim gift.
Purim is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people from annihilation at the hands of an official of the Achaemenid Empire named Haman, as it is recounted in the Book of Esther. Haman was the royal vizier to the Persian king Ahasuerus
The Valley Chabad Teen Leadership Initiative is a popular teen group that g athers for social and community serviceoriented activities for Jewish teens in the Pascack Valley and Saddle River towns. The programs are open to all Jewish teens regardless of affiliation.
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To learn more or to have your teens volunteer visit valleychabadteens.com or email rabbiyosef@valleychabad.org
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Easter & Happy Passover
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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.
See galleries from past yearsʼcontests at PascackPress.com
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Giulio’s Restaurant ForFresh, Homemade Seasonal Cuisine
“At Giulioʼs, we only use the freshest ingredients in our homemade dishes. Featuring contemporary Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, we strive to please every palate.”
Owner Beni Qosja opened Giulioʼs Restaurant in 2022. Housed in a beautiful, romantic, Queen Anne Victorian in Historic Tappan, N.Y., just minutes from Bergen County, Giulioʼs Restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine.
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Built in 1880 by the Smith family, the rooms are adorned with carved woodwork and large beveled glass windows that make you feel like you stepped
into another era. The warm and inviting fireplaces in the Main Dining Room and Oak Room beckon 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
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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.
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When you go… Giulioʼs Restaurant 154 Washington Street Tappan, N.Y. 845-359-3657
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See website for hours: www.giuliosrestaurant.com giuliosrestaurant@gmail.com
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Easter Celebration April 9, 2023 Easter Celebration April 9, 2023
FIT AND FIERCE
WESTWOOD
GETFIT, RELIEVE STRESS, WITH FOREVERYOUNG
Are you a senior looking to get fit and relieve stress as the holidays approach? Look no further than Westwood Recreationʼs ForeverYoung programʼs yoga, chair yoga and tai-chi classes for resident and non-resident adults, age 55 and up.
Certified yoga instructor Tori Karach leads ForeverYoung participants, beginners to advanced, in a 60-minute class designed to increase overall flexibility, assist in improving balance and posture, boost mood, increase muscle tone and ease aches and pains.
WESTWOOD
The Contemporaries of the Woman’s Club of Westwood and friends sweated through a 45-minute power workout combining boxing, HIIT, and strength training, courtesy of Rumble Montvale on Tuesday, March 21 at the Woman’s
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Clubhouse.
The Club looks forward to offering more fitness-focused events free to its members in the coming months. The mission of The Contemporaries of the Woman’s Club of Westwood is to bring together a diverse group of women in an inclusive environment who, through fellowship, vol-
unteerism, and leadership, engage in hyper-local philanthropy to serve the greater Westwood community. For membership information and more, write westwoodcontemporaries@gmail. com. For more events and opportunities, visit instagram.com/westwoodcontemporaries.
Now Accepting Reservations For Easter!
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Yoga is held in the Westwood Community Center on Thursdays from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. Chair Yoga with Tori is also held in the Westwood Community Center on Thursdays from noon to 12:40 p.m. The ForeverYoung yoga classes are free to Westwood residents 55 and up; $20 per month non-residents.
Local residents 55 and up
who are looking for a new challenge are also encouraged to try Tai-Chi with instructor Hasmig Mekjian. Tai-chi is a Chinese martial art that incorporates slow continuous movement from one pose to the next. It is widely hailed as a beneficial way to reduce stress and anxiety and regular practice promotes better sleep and weight loss. Tai-Chi might also improve cognition and balance and relieve symptoms of arthritis.
ForeverYoung Tai-Chi classes take place on Tuesdays at 8 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. The program is free for Westwood residents; the non-resident fee is $30 per month and includes entrance to both classes.
To register for these classes, adults 55 and up should go to the Westwood Community Center office at 55 Jefferson Ave. any day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call (201) 664-7882.
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ADVERTISEYOURSERVICEINTHE SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS.
Sponsor a military tribute banner
The Hillsdale Police Department in conjunction with American Legion Post 162, is proud to announce its Inaugural Hometown Heroes Program.
Police Capt. Sean Smith tells Pascack Press the project pays tribute to those who fought under our nationʼs flag. Patriotic banners on lamp posts will line the downtown business district.
Hillsdale residents and businesses are invited to sponsor a banner honoring their military hero. Banners will feature a photo of the veteran or active-duty member, his or her name, date of service and branch of service. The sponsor family or name will be printed on the banner.
Smith says, The 20-inch by 40-inch patriotic banners are completely funded by the Hillsdale Police Department in conjunction with the cooperation of American Legion Post 162.”
He says, “Applications are accepted on a first-come, firstserve basis. Space is limited. To ensure a spot, we encourage you to submit your heroʼs sponsorship
Banners will feature a photo of the veteran or active-duty member,his or her name,their date of service,and their branch of service.The sponsor family or name will be printed on the banner. militarytributebanners.org.
order today. The submission deadline is May 1.”
The individual honored and recognized must reside or have resided in Hillsdale or be a family member of a Hillsdale resident or business owner. The nominee must serve or have honorably served in any of the six branches of military service including the Reserves and National Guard.
The banners will be displayed through this Veterans Day in Veterans Park and downtown.
Chief Robert Francaviglia added, “We are very excited to
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BIT: ‘Bom’ threat
FROM PAGE 4
compared it with handwriting samples from each of the schoolʼs 973 students. When the field was narrowed to two suspects, officers sought help from the state police handwriting analysis laboratory at Trenton.
By the end of April, police had identified the author of the bomb threat based on the handwriting on the note. A 15-year-old
female student from the school was arrested and charged with the crime. While her name was withheld from news reports due to her age, police did note that she had no criminal record.
Once in custody, the girl was taken to the Edna B. Conklin Welfare Home in Hackensack as a juvenile offender.
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launch the Hometown Heroes Program, where we honor members of the Borough of Hillsdale who faithfully served in the United States Armed Forces. This recognition is a great reminder of the sacrifices they made and continue to make in the pursuit of our freedom.”
For program guidelines and an application, visit militarytributebanners.org/new-jersey/hillsdale-nj.html. For more information, connect with Hillsdale Police Capt. Sean Smith at ssmith@hillsdalepolice.com or (201) 358-5038.
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Beuscher is president of Pascack Historical Society.
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Woman’s club offers Pampered Chef
The Emmanuel Cancer Foundation is the beneficiary of a sale of Pampered Chef products, sponsored by the NJSFWC Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club.
Pampered Chef has been a provider of high-quality cooking tools directly to the consumer since its inception in Chicago
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more than 40 years ago. Their product line includes fine cookware and bakeware, small appliances, kitchen tools, spices and rubs.
Browse the catalogue and place orders at pamperedchef.com/party/womensclub
Customers whose purchases reach $90 will receive a gift from Pampered Chef. A portion of all sales made through the online link now to April 15 are donated to the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation.
The Emmanuel Cancer Foundation is based in New Jersey and
has offices in Midland Park. Its goal is to provide support and guidance to families with a child suffering from childhood cancer.
The Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club has joined with the other clubs of the New Jersey Federation of Womenʼs Clubs to raise money and promote public awareness of the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation and its services.
For more information about the sale of Pampered Chef products call Carolyn Delafrange at (201)819-1000.
TRYOUTS TRYOUTS TRYOUTS TRYOUTS Arsenal Soccer Club TRYOUTS
FALL
$1,000 SCHOLARSHIP FROM B’NAI ISRAEL
The K-S Scholarship Foundation, administered by Congregation Bʼnai Israel, will award one $1,000 scholarship to a deserving student in 2023.
Applicants must be Jewish, and current high school seniors who reside in any one of the following towns: Closter, Cresskill, Dumont, Emerson, Harrington Park, Haworth, Hillsdale, Norwood, Oradell, Old Tappan, Paramus, Park Ridge, Ridgewood, River Edge, River Vale, Township of Washington, Westwood, or
Woodcliff Lake.
Judging criteria include demonstrating academic achievement and financial need. The applicantʼs family need not be a member of Congregation Bʼnai Israel.
For an application, contact Congregation Bʼnai Israelʼs office administrator at (201) 265-2272 or office@bisrael.com Applications must be submitted by May 31, 2023. The recipient will be notified on or about June 15.
PRE-K T-BALL REGISTRATIONOPEN
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River Vale children who are entering kindergarten in the fall are eligible to take part in River Valeʼs spring T-ball program.
The clinic runs Saturdays from 1 to 2 p.m: April 29; May 6, 13, and 20; and June 3 and 10 (no session Memorial Day weekend) at Holdrum School field. The cost to participate is $50
per child. Registration is required and available online via River Valeʼs Community Pass system through April 7. Space is limited. Want to enrich your child's experience? Become a coach. No baseball/softball experience is necessary. See the town website for more information, including requirements.
Seniors meet April 13 at clubhouse
The Emerson senior citizensʼ monthly membership meeting is Thursday, April 13 at noon at the clubhouse, 20 Palisade Ave. AARP will present a program on downsizing. Refreshments will be served.
A trip to Hunterdon Hills
Playhouse is scheduled for Thursday, April 27. This trip includes a wonderful hot lunch and a terrific show, “The Million Dollar Quartet.” The cost is $83 per person. Call Jean Ann Scarano at (201) 483 8104 or Jo Monahan at (201) 265 1933.
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
Cake: Borough celebrates 125th anniversary
FROM PAGE 1
guitarist Brian Kaupas performed “Blackbird,” a Beatles song; Juliana Betsy, sang “Neon Moon” by Brooks and Dunne; Sophia Pourakis sang “Into The Unknown”
March 25, 1898. He also noted a few years later, a newly formed River Vale Township broke away from Hillsdale.
He said on April 24, 1923, Hillsdale was reincorporated as a borough, “the predominant form of government in New Jersey among its hundreds of municipalities,” he added.
“Finally, remember David P. Patterson, who developed subdivisions to profit from the coming of the Hackensack and New York Railroad (later New Jersey and New York Railroad),” said the mayor.
from the Disney film Frozen; and Julia Zimmerman sang “Speechless” from Aladdin
Other performers were: Alexandra Dipisa, singing, with Arthur Frylinck on dance; Kayla Schneider singing “She Used To Be Mine” from Waitress; Victoria, a third grader, playing “Something Just Like This” on piano; Tiana Tesoriero and Emmanuel Dukelly, singing a duet, “You Are The Rea-
The committee posted on March 26, “Hillsdaleʼs 125th birthday celebration was fabulous! Thanks to ShopRite for the delicious cake. Thanks to Pascack Valley High School for allowing us to use their beautiful facility. Thanks to all the kids and adults who made birthday cards. Thanks to the community for coming out to celebrate Hillsdale and the amazing talent of our residents. Thanks to the 125th Anniversary Committee for all their
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to the proceedings. Hundreds of colorful, studentcrafted cards adorned Pascack Val-
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ley High School walls, adding community spirit, pride, and personality to the community party
“It was a ball showcasing kids, and we had adults too,” said Sandt about Hillsdaleʼs Got Talent. He said, “A lot of people were saying we should be doing this every year.”
He said that Hillsdaleʼs Got Talent was not a competition “but a birthday celebration for Hillsdale. A lot of people were gathered, and it was just a good-feeling crowd that was great and applauded everybody.”
Sandt said that the birthday party and talent show “were a celebration of a community and its tal-
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ented dancers, singers, musicians, and a comedian…a mixed bag of artistry ”
The 125th Anniversary Committee includes chairs Gerry Beatty and Police Capt. Sean Smith, author of Images of Americaʼs “Hillsdale,” a treasure trove of the boroughʼs early history published in 2021 by Arcadia Publishing.
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Committee members include Recreation Director Patty Smith, councilman Zoltan Horvath, and residents Melissa Mazza Chiong, Marie Hanlon, Peter Hard, Al Metz, Jon Pacor, Frank Pizzella, Gerry Sandt, and councilwoman Janetta Trochimiuk.
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son”; Arden Eliav, Juliana Campbell, Caroline Cataldo did a dance to “Getaway Car”; Selena Torres, a musician/singer, performing “Down To The Devil”; a four-piece band, Arcadian Valley Band, composed of Juan Zapateiro, Thomas Santos, Michael Giordano, and Vin Coglianese; Andrew Li performed on piano; and Allegra Szabo sang “Never Enough” from the film The Greatest Showman
Before the performers hit the stage, a short ceremony with local officials, residents, and party-goers of all ages heard from Mayor John Ruocco as 125th anniversary committee members served up slices of two delicious sheet cakes, with chocolate and vanilla cream, donated by Shop-Rite, to celebrate the occasion.
The mayor thanked the members of the 125th anniversary committee, and noted the boroughʼs birthday celebrated two events: The 125th anniversary of breaking away from Washington Township on
hard work. And a huge thank you and shout out to all of the residents who shared their fantastic talent with our community.”
Events on deck
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Upcoming events following the April 8 Easter Egg Hunt and bagels event will be a 125th Anniversary float that will appear in the Memorial Day parade; Hillsdale Education Foundation will help sponsor and create a 125th Anniversary mural at Beechwood Park Bandshell for the Hillsdale Education Foundation Arts Festival June 10; Hillsdale Fall Festival will be held at Beechwood Park on Sept. 23; and a 125th Anniversary Gala will be held at Seasons, Washington Township, on Nov 30.
Gerard Sandt, master of ceremonies for Hillsdaleʼs Got Talent, told Pascack Press that hundreds of Hillsdale birthday cards were made by students from Meadowbrook and Ann Blanche Smith elementary schools that added a festive element
S Sc c h o o ol l N e w s
BCP: Players ignite O’Hara’s satirical ‘Barbecue’
FROM PAGE 14
“The Price.”
He has worked as either a director, an assistant to the director, a stage manager, consulting
director, or lighting designer for many BCP and other theater company productions. Peter has also served as chairperson of ourPlay and Casting Committee and has
served as a member of our Play Reading Committee. He was a theater and film production teacher for more than 35 years.
The talented cast of “Barbecue” includes Arno Austin of Bergenfield, Hope Harley of Teaneck, Tonette Smith of Tappan, N.Y., Vivette Alston of Dayton, Leslie Smithey of Briarcliff, N.Y., James Lugo of Congers, N .Y., Jenna Stewart of River Vale, Elaine DʼAddezio of New Providence, Cheryl Woertz of Alpine and Allyson Stevenson of Westwood.
The production team is comprised of Peter Colletto (direc-
HILLSDALE
tor), David Luke (producer), Nick Nappo (producer), Joanne Misha (asst. director), Michele Roth (stage manager), Katie Lupfer (Member at large), Lynne Lupfer (set design/decor), Bunny Mateosian (costumes), Gerard Bourcier (lighting designer), Randi Kestin (lighting operator), Rob DeScherer (sound designer), Andrew Whitney (sound operator), Laura Dinoia (props), Jessica Lohsen (crew), Ken Slezak (crew), Darlene Slezak (crew), Edie Orlando (hair & makeup), M ichael Smith (photography), Larry Kaiser (dialect coach), Jennifer Cottone (publicity), Regi-
nald Bennett Jr. (publicity), Elisabeth Julia (social media), Marci K. Weinstein (program notes), Sharla Herbert (headshot board), Edie Orlando (hair/makeup) and Elaine DʼAddezio (hair/makeup).
Acting on its desire to keep its members and patrons safe, B CP will continue to follow CDC and State of New Jersey guidelines and will adhere to the following protocols. Masks and vaccination are highly recommended but not required. For more information visit bcplayers.org
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Second Annual Hike for Hillsdale April 15
The Hillsdale Education Foundation invites you to its Second Annual Hike for Hillsdale, Saturday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Sapienza Gardens “for a day of Health + Environmental Wellness.”
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The day includes yoga in the woods, movement and stretches, an environmental scavenger hunt and clea-up, planting, and a hike through the beautiful trails of Sapienza Gardens.
The invitation says, “Come see the rescue animals of TevaLand Sanctuary Farm as well as the Pascack Valley Bee Observation area!”
Bring the family: Second Annual Hike for Hillsdale,Saturday,April 15 from 10 a.m.to 1 p.m.,at Sapienza Gardens.
S Sc c h o o ol l N N e w s
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AHA upper school open house May 2
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D ear 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 S TREAM education (STEM plus religion and the arts). This n ationally 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.
R egistration 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 Angelsʼ mission and culture, curriculum, co-curricular and e xtracurricular offerings, the admissions process, financial aid, and summer programs. Best of all: Our friendly, knowledgeable 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 back-
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Preschool registration at PVRHSD
The Pascack Valley Regional High School District is pleased to announce the preschool programs at Pascack Hills and Pascack Valley high schools are accepting applications for the 2023–2024 school year.
The Pascack Valley Regional High School Districtʼs preschool laboratory is part of the Early Childhood & Family Education Program, which enables high school students to work with and observe young children, while learning about child development and parenting.
to perform these roles serve as preparation for parenthood and child service careers.
To learn more about the program and for the online application, families are encouraged to visit the Family and Consumer Science page of the district website: tinyurl.com/PVRHSDPreschool
Note that all children who register for the program must reside within the Pascack Valley Regional High School District (Hillsdale, Montvale, River Vale, or Woodcliff Lake).
grounds. 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 first-rate education in a nurturing environment where equal importance is placed on academic excellence, character development, moral integrity, and service to others.
The program is designed to provide high school students with the opportunity to engage with and embrace new roles and responsibilities through their work with young children. The skills and competencies required
If you have questions about the program, contact Argine Safari, interim supervisor of world language, ESL, music, and family and consumer science, at (201) 358-7020 ext. 22054 or at asafari@pascack.org
Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
DR. KAPLAN: Tips to boost your brain power
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The three most important factors to help boost your brain power are getting the proper fuel delivery, doing new activities, and being physically active. If you focus on these three things, your memory and focus will improve quickly, as well as motivation, organization, and problem solving.
The first important factor to improve brain function and reduce brain fog is fuel delivery. This comes from water, food, sunlight, and oxygen. To drink the proper amount of water, simply drink half your body weight in ounces. Also, drink from a glass or a stainless steel bottle to reduce plastic chemical exposure, help the environment, and save lots of money. Invest in a water filter that
removes the lead, mercury, chlorine, and flouride. The best times of the day to drink water are first thing in the morning, 30 minutes before each meal, and right before bed. If you have digestive problems, bloating, constipation, loose stools, nausea, stomach pain, or have a leaky gut, you must first reduce the inflammation, then help with the gut lining, next address the bad bacteria, yeast, or viruses found in the gut, and lastly clear it all out.
To permanently fix a poor digestive system or a leaky gut you must do all four things and it must be done in that exact order. If you improve your digestive system and fix your leaky gut, you will have a better immune system, better brain function, better absorption, more energy, and better digestion.
In regards to nutrition, the brain loves fruits, vegetables, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and seeds. The nerves and brain also love fat, so eat lots of avocado, olives, and coconut. If you are deficient in Omega 3s, you can
supplement with fatty fish oils. Remember to eat each color of the rainbow to get all of your nutrients.
The most important vitamin in regards to nutrition is vitamin D. This comes from the sun and helps to fuel your brain and body, as well as boost your immune system and help with proper thyroid function. I recommend going out in the sun for at least 20 minutes a day between the hours of noon and 2 p.m.
Remember to take off your hat, roll up your sleeves, pull your pant legs up, and take off your sunglasses to get full skin exposure. Do not buy vitamins from the pharmacy or chain stores. They may contain impurities, contaminants, or chemical additives that can cause more health problems.
Only take vitamins or supplements if you are deficient and are supervised by your doctor.
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The last part of fuel delivery, a key factor to boost your brain power, is oxygen. A good breathing exercise to help improve oxygen levels is to inhale for four seconds, hold it for seven seconds, and exhale for eight seconds. Perform this breathing exercise three times and repeat it three times a day. This helps to maximize oxygen intake and also gets rid of carbon dioxide.
Spend lots of time outside. One tree gives enough oxygen for five people. You can buy an oxygen concentrator that filters out carbon dioxide and nitrogen so you can breathe double the amount of oxygen you would normally breathe and you can do this for 10 to 30 minutes at a time.
Make sure your autonomic nervous system is functioning properly. If your neurologist finds your brain stem is not performing well, there are many ways to stimulate the brain stem, such as gargling, singing, humming, screaming, swallowing, and gagging. Find out from your doctor if any of these exercises
would be appropriate for you. Your brain and nervous system are like muscles...you use it or you lose it.
The second really important factor in improving memory and focus is performing novel activities, or doing new things. The brain needs you to take on new projects and perform different activities everyday, so do not get in the habit of doing the same brain exercise everyday. Doing the crossword puzzle everyday is not nearly as good for the brain as doing the crossword puzzle on Monday, the word jumble on Tuesday, Sudoku on Wednesday, a word find on Thursday, a maze on Friday, card games on Saturday, and board games on Sunday. You must keep switching up your routine so you can use different parts of the brain each day.
The third but maybe most important factor to boost your brain power is being physically active. Find something you love to do that keeps you active and prevents you from scrolling through social media, browsing the internet, playing video games, watching the news, and binging on Netflix. If you do not like going to the gym, it will be hard to keep up that habit. If you enjoy it, you are more likely to stay active.
Maybe you enjoy biking, hiking, pole dancing, Zumba, Pilates, HIIT, CrossFit, sports, hip hop dancing, swimming, rowing, or rollerblading. The point is to find something you will look forward to doing. It also helps with motivation, especially if you keep on improving and making progress.
Sitting is the worst thing for your brain. You should not sit for more than 20 minutes straight, so set a timer to make sure you take lots of breaks. Get up and walk around, stretch, get a drink of water, send a fax, meditate, sing a song, do some push ups, open a window, go to the bathroom, or do some breathing
exercises. It does not have to be long, but make sure you get up and do something.
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To summarize, to keep the brain and body healthy, it is vital to do new things, be physically active, drink the proper amount of water, eat healthy food, and go outside to get sunlight and oxygen. All of these things may seem obvious and you might already know them.
However there is a difference between knowing what is healthy and doing what is healthy. This week, make it a priority to start these healthy habits to function better, feel better, and live better.
Wow!Act now!
For more healthy habits and information about our in-office and virtual services, please visit my website at www.kaplandc.com. For the month of April, we are offering a $21 neurological evaluation which is normally $500. Mention this article and when you come to the office you will also get a FREE signed copy of my book “Boost Your Brain Power: A guide to improving your memory and focus.”
Call us today to reserve your spot immediately as spaces are filling up quickly.
If you are interested in learning about natural ways to reduce inflammation and disease, sign up for my next seminar on April 26, at 6:30 p.m. in River Edge. It is normally $100 a seminar, but if you sign up before April 21, you can attend or get the recordings of the next four seminars (Reducing Inflammation, Mastering Nutrition, The Brain Based Exercise Program, and The Boost Your Brain Power Bootcamp) for a total of $49 (only $12 a seminar).
Call (201) 261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to reserve your spot immediately!
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Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
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THE
SAVVY SENIOR: How to Choose an Assisted Living Facility
Dear Savvy Senior,
Whatʼs the best way to go about choosing an assisted living facility for my 86-year-old father? Since mom died last year, his health has declined to the point that he canʼt live at home anymore but isnʼt ready for a nursing home either.
some of which are part of a retirement community or nursing home. Most facilities have anywhere between 10 and 100 suites, varying in size from a single room to a full apartment. And some even offer special memory care units for residents with dementia.
BY JIMMILLERSearching Susan
Dear Susan,
If your dad needs help with things like bathing, dressing, preparing meals, managing his m edications or just getting around, an assisted living facility is definitely a good option to consider.
Assisted living facilities are residential communities that offer different levels of health or personal care services for seniors who want or need help with daily living.
There are nearly 29,000 assisted living communities (also called board and care, supportive-care or residential-care facilities) in the U.S. today,
To help you choose a good assisted living facility for your dad, here are some steps to follow.
• Make a list: There are several sources you can turn to for referrals to top assisted living communities in your area including your dadʼs doctor or nearby hospital discharge planner; friends or neighbors whoʼve had a l oved one in assisted living; or you can do an online search at Caring.com.
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• Do some research: To research the communities on your list, put a call into your longterm care ombudsman. This is a government official who investigates long-term care facility complaints and advocates for residents and their families. This person can help you find the latest health inspection reports on specific assisted living facilities and can tell you which ones have
had complaints or other problems in the past. To find your local ombudsman visit LTCombudsman.org.
• Call the facilities: Once youʼve identified a few good a ssisted living facilities, call them to see if they have any vacancies, what they charge and if they provide the types of services your father needs.
• Tour your top choices: During your visit, notice the cleanliness and smell of the facility. Is it homey and inviting? Does the staff seem responsive and kind to its residents? Also be sure to taste the food, and talk to the residents and their family members, if available. Itʼs also a good idea to visit several times at different times of the day and different days of the week to get a broader perspective.
On your facility visit, get a copy of the admissions contract and the residence rules that outline the fees (and any extra charges), services and residentsʼ rights, and explanations for when a resident might be asked to leave because their condition has worsened, and they require more care than the facility can provide.
Also, find out their staff
turnover rate, COVID infectioncontrol procedures and if and when medical professionals are o n site. To help you rate your visit, Caring.com offers a checklist of questions that you can download and print at Caring.com/static/checklist-ALtour.pdf.
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• How to pay: Monthly costs for assisted living ranges anywhere from $2,500 to $6,000 or more, depending on where you live, the facility you choose, and the services provided. Since Medicare does not cover assisted living, most residents pay outof-pocket from their own personal funds, and some have longterm care insurance policies.
I f your dad has limited
financial resources and canʼt afford this, most states now have Medicaid waiver programs that help pay for assisted living.
Or, if heʼs a veteran, he may be able to get funds through the VAʼs Aid and Attendance benefit. To find out about these programs, ask the assisted living facility director, or contact his local Medicaid office (see Medicaid.gov) or the regional VA benefit office (800–827–1000).
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.
County: Veterans targeted with fake division letterhead
FROM PAGE 1
erroneous misrepresentation that seeks to destroy the excellent reputation our Division of Veterans Services enjoys.”
He said, “Due to the serious nature of this violation, the County has commenced an investigation in an effort to locate and punish the perpetrator. No one has the right to misappropriate the use of the county seal or our stationary.”
Duch tells veterans, “On behalf of the county we apologize for any distress this fraudulent communication may have brought to you.”
County very seriously. We have an excellent staff led by an Army veteran, Division Director Shaun Hutchinson.”
Duch said, “The letter that is circulating is an absolute fraud [and] it has alarmed those veterans who have received it. The individual who sent it should be ashamed of the stress they have caused to active military and/or our veterans who have served our country so well.”
Duch assured readers that “Bergen County will continue to provide the highest level of service available through our Division of Veterans Services located here
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vices was established in 1977 to provide resident veterans and their dependents with information and assistance in obtaining earned
their auxiliaries and individual residents with up-to-date benefit information.
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Via the Division…
Meanwhile, the Division of Veterans Services website co.bergen.nj.us/division-of-veteransservices) lists special programs:
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• Hire a Vet Program, phone (201) 336-6329. The division maintains a list of available employment opportunities, and regularly calls on industry and organizations seeking employment opportunities for veterans. Staff attempts to match the veteran with employer needs.
• Transportation , phone (201) 368-5955. Transportation to Veterans Affairs Medical Centers in New Jersey is available Monday through Friday through a coordinated effort with the Bergen County Division of Community Transportation and the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
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• Flag Distribution, phone (201) 336-6325. Each year, the Division of Veterans Services provides various veterans groups and Boy Scout Troops with United States flags for Memorial Day placement on the graves of war veterans buried in Bergen County cemeteries.
Thomas Home provides transitional housing and support services for veterans. Our mission is to ensure that Bergen County homeless veterans are assisted in their return to the community by becoming self-sufficient through rehabilitation. The home is named for Alfred J. Thomas, who started the Bergen County Tracers Program, which uses a nontraditional approach to link homeless veterans to communitybased entitlements and services.
Thomas was a U.S. Army veteran who served in World War II, a member of the Division of Veterans Services Advisory Council, and a lifelong member of VFW Post #5561 of Bogota. Learn more about donations to the home.
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• Veterans Affairs Entitlements. Honorably discharged veterans of the U.S. military are entitled to many benefits. The New Jersey Veterans Guide is available online and explains federal and New Jersey benefits. You may also request a hard copy by calling 1-800-624-0508.
And, he said, “Rest assured that the county executive and the entire Bergen County administration takes our responsibility to the veterans community in Bergen
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on the second floor of One Bergen County Plaza. You can reach them at 201-336-6325. You will find them ready to assist at all times.”
The Division of Veterans Ser-
entitlements from federal, state, and local governments, as well as any that are available from the private sector. Through a quarterly newsletter and direct client contact, the division provides Bergenʼs veterans organizations and
•Interment, phone (201) 336-6325. Veterans who were honorably or generally discharged from the military and have passed away may be interred in the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Arneytown, New Jersey. Their place of rest is marked and cared for perpetually.
• Alfred J. Thomas Home for Veterans: The Alfred J.
Bergen County Military Service Medal Bergen County offers a service medal to all county residents, currently living or who died in the county, who have been honorably discharged from the U.S. military. The Bergen County Military Service Medal will also be awarded posthumously to county residents who died while serving.
• The Veterans Honorary Service Card. The Veterans Honorary Service Card is offered as a convenience through the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office. Many business and organizations
CONTINUED ON PAGE 39
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IS YOUR PORTFOLIO AS EFFICIENT AS IT COULD BE?
ment is considered to be.
Editorʼs note: The following article is for informational purposes only.
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KOHLMEIER
When you look at a line chart of an investmentʼs historical performance, one feature to note is its volatility –how frequent and how extreme the ups and downs have been. This is significant because volatility is the most commonly used measurement of an investmentʼs risk. The greater the volatility, the riskier the invest-
If you viewed a chart comparing the stock marketʼs versus the bond marketʼs performance, youʼd see stocks have been significantly more volatile than bonds. Logically then, a 100% bond portfolio should be less risky than one including both bonds and stocks. Right?
Not so fast.
In fact, according to a Morningstar study for the years 1970 through 2018, a portfolio comprising 67% bonds (measured by the 20-year U.S. government bond) and 33% stocks (using the S&P
500 Index) offered less risk and better returns than a 100% bond portfolio. In other words, the former was more “efficient” than the latter, which leads to a concept investors should be aware of: the efficient frontier.
Start with the basics
Having a grasp of the efficient frontier begins with understanding:
• The relationship between risk and return
• How diversification can help manage risk and return
In general, risk and return go hand in hand. As an investmentʼs
risk increases, so should its return. If you buy a Treasury bond, the return will probably be low because the risk of default is low. If you buy a stock, however, the potential risk can be significant—think back to what happened to stocks during the Great Recession—and you should expect a greater return potential as “compensation” from the market for accepting that additional risk.
Diversification is simply blending different investments in a portfolio in an effort to manage risk and return. The result is your “asset allocation.”
A very simple asset allocation might include stocks, which tend to be risky but offer growth potential, and bonds, which have been more stable and provide income (interest). You can help manage your risk and return by how much you allocate to each type of investment.
For example, if you have a 75% stock/25% bond portfolio, it should offer a greater risk and return potential than one thatʼs 25% stocks and 75% bonds.
Getting to an efficient frontier
Of course, there are lots of other investments for you to choose from, and there are an infinite number of portfolios you could construct from the stocks, bonds, and other assets available. Each of these blends has a unique overall risk and return level.
If you plotted them all on a chart, youʼd likely see whatʼs shown in the hypothetical graph below. The “pies”—representing different asset allocations—farthest to the left and highest up are the ones with the best expected risk/return tradeoffs. If you connected those “dots,” you would have it: the efficient frontier.
Thatʼs what the efficient frontier is, but what does it mean for investors?
It means that if your risk/return tradeoff doesnʼt land along the frontier, your portfolio is not as efficient as it could be. Youʼre taking on too much risk for the level of return youʼre getting, and you probably
PARK RIDGE
need to make adjustments to decrease risk, improve return, or both.
Finding help
Determining whether your portfolio is as efficient as it could be may require help from a professional financial advisor. He or she will likely ask about your goals (what youʼre investing for), time horizon (how long until you need to tap into your investments), and risk tolerance (how comfortable you are with swings in your portfolioʼs value).
Based on your responses, your advisor can help build a portfolio designed to help reach your goals as efficiently as possible. Asset allocation cannot eliminate the risk of fluctuating prices and uncertain returns.
S&P 500 comprises 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation. It is a market-valueweighted index; each stockʼs weight in the index is proportionate to its market value. It is one of the most widely used benchmarks of U.S. equity performance.
The indices are provided for informational purposes only; investors cannot directly purchase an index. Past performance in not indicative of future results.
This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director, Investments, in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.
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Investments in securities and insurance products are NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANKGUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE.
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Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
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© 2017–2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR #1119-019485050472.
ROCKY PILGER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
The Park Ridge Volunteer Firemanʼs Association is again offering its Rocky Pilger Memorial scholarship.
This scholarship, started in memory of Chief Pilger, is given to three current high school seniors who will be pursuing higher education in the fall. The award is open to any Park Ridge resident graduating high school or in college and needing assistance.
If you attend Park Ridge High School, see your guidance counselor for an application. If you attend any other school, contact Mark Cookey Eisen at markeisen4@gmail.com for an application.
To be considered, all paperwork must be submitted to the PRHS guidance office, or to Mark Eisen at markeisen4@gmail.com , no later than April 10.
The Association is composed of all active firefighters, officers, life members, and honorary members and is committed to serving the community and ensuring the welfare of its members.
The Association is made up of many different committees; some focus on the serving the active side of the department while some focus on the community by funding school scholarships and sponsoring town events and athletic teams.
County: Veterans targeted with fake division letterhead
FROM PAGE 36
in Bergen County are currently offering discounts to veterans, and this card should only be used where it is accepted.
Always check with the retailer before shopping to inquire as to whether the card will be accepted
The wallet-sized cards will be issued to veterans who present a copy of their military service records
Please note that participation in any discount or amount offered will be at the sole discretion of the vendor/retailer at which you are shopping Tracers
Tracers aims to end homelessness for veterans in Bergen County by helping homeless veterans and veterans in danger of becoming homeless, and giving a hand to homeless vets, not a handout.
Assisting homeless veterans is a top priority for the Bergen County Division of Veterans Services and its Advisory Board. In 1993, the division addressed this priority by launching Tracers, an all-volunteer group consisting of resident veterans.
The primary mission of our
volunteers is to locate homeless veterans and link them to community-based and VA sponsored programs and benefits. Tracers hopes to find veterans shelters, jobs which provide adequate income, as well as other needed services in Bergen County.
Tracers works with local veteran groups and other nonprofit organizations, public officials, business leaders, homeless and formerly homeless veterans.
The programʼs name, Tracers, was derived from the glow-in-thedark bullets recognized by U.S. military personnel. The veterans who volunteer for Tracers are guiding lights who offer nontraditional outreach efforts to homeless veterans.
The goal of Tracers is to help every homeless veteran in Bergen County reach self-sufficiency. In addition, Tracers has established a transitional home in the city of Garfield with support services for eight homeless veterans. The home opened in 2003.
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While the exact number of homeless veterans in Bergen County is unknown, the number is estimated at nearly 100. Some veterans in Bergen are without a residence, but they are not really homeless — the United States is
50+CLUBPLANSLIVELY SPRING TRIPS
The Hillsdale 50+ Club invites all to gather to meet neighbors and friends. The club meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Hillsdale. The entrance to the meeting room is on Magnolia Avenue between Hillsdale and Washington avenues.
The Hillsdale club has two trips planned:
• A trip to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse is scheduled for Tues-
day, April 4. This trip includes a wonderful hot lunch and a terrific show, “The Million Dollar Quartet” (Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and others). Cost is $83 for club members, $85 for non-members.
•A two-night, three-day trip is set for Cape May, May 8–10. There are many activities planned while the club is there, with hotel lodging.
For more information on club trips call Evelyn Pachner at (201) 666-7675.
their home. In 1994, Tracers was recognized by Rutgers University for its innovation and received the coveted New Jersey State and Local Award. In April 1996, the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, Inc. honored Tracers as a finalist in the adult volunteer category. Donations. Donations to the Tracers program are used to supply bus tickets to jobs, assist in preparing the veteran for employment, and to fill in gaps in the service delivery system. Since our inception, more than $100,000 in bus tickets were given to homeless
vets.
Thereʼs no time like the present to send a check or call us for needed supplies at (201) 3366325. Kindly make check payable to:
County of Bergen — Tracers, Bergen County Division of Veterans Services, One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor, Hackensack, NJ 07601
You can help by also donating $25–$50 gift certificates redeemable in Hackensack stores such as Sears, S-4 Military Surplus, and CVS Pharmacy.
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Tracers also seeks new items such as carrying bags, sweatshirts (large and extra large), etc., which may be dropped off weekdays from 9 a.m.to 4 p.m. Parking is available. Pickup can be arranged for individual cartons weighing less than 25 pounds (if volunteers are available).
Tracers assures that every penny donated is spent on items and services which help improve the lives of former members of the United States Military and their families who are now homeless.
PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING
Bracco to speak at Sundial Garden Club
The next meeting of the Sundial Garden Club on Monday, April 3 at 7 p.m. will feature a presentation by Anthony Bracco: “Adapting Small Farm Methods to a Backyard Garden.”
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The club meets at the Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave.
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The Bracco Family Farm is a 25 acre farm in the “black dirt” region of Pine Island, N.Y. which uses sustainable techniques without chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or glyphosphate.
Techniques include hand cultivation of weeds and the use of old-fashioned farm equipment. The soil is allowed to naturally regenerate each season. The farm supplies produce for individual customers, families, chefs, and farm2table eateries, and country clubs.
Bracco will show how the
public can produce fresh, naturally grown vegetables in their own gardens. He will discuss naturally grown and sustainable methods and describe the tools and implements used at the farm (and demonstrate their use).
He also will explain safe seed sources, cold greenhouse growing, and building and preparing garden beds. And heʼll share information on fertilizers, compost, and natural pest control methods.
Braccoʼs goal is to help the general public to successfully establish their own vegetable gardens to provide themselves with fresh, healthy, sustainable and delicious food.
The club welcomes all gardeners and would-be gardeners from the Pascack Valley to this information-packed presentation.
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Itʼs a new year and the Westwood United Methodist Church is happy to announce that the Faithworks Thrift Shop and food pantry are open.
Mark your calendars: The thrift shop will be open the first and third Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and every Monday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Donations of clean used items will be accepted during those hours.
The food distribution program has expanded its hours to coincide with the thrift shop hours with only non-perishables available. Food distribution includes fresh produce, meat and pantry items.
Westwood United Methodist Church is at 105 Fairview Ave., Westwood. The entrance to the thrift shop and food pantry is on Bergen Avenue. A sign outside the door is placed there for your convenience.
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P Paassccaacck k P Prreesss s
welcomes press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements an event photographs from all towns in the Pascack Valley.
Send all news to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net
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Letters:
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23
a wasteful exercise in futility. The proposed study and the recommendations it will generate are not inconsistent with pressing for “immediate relief” through the passage of S790 and A4200.
The legislation, in addition to recommending a lower yearround elevation at the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir, vests the authority to order the pre-release of water, on the run-up to a tracked storm event, with the state OEM [Office of Emergency Management].
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This process would give Veolia timely permission to prerelease, creating more headroom for the surge of runoff that falls d own the drainage basin quickly filing t he reservoir, cresting its gates (which are automatically lowered to protect their structural integrity from the pressure of the surge) flowing down the brook, breeching the banks, ultimately submerging our backyards and flooding our streets and basements.
S790 and A4200 buy us time to formulate, seek funding, fund and schedule an implementation of DEP approved stream stabilization techniques.
These physical improve-
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ments to our degraded stream banks are necessary to prevent the long term flood situation from worsening. And they could r educe instances of flooding without the need to pre release water from the reservoir.
The drone studies will document a visual record of stream conditions and choke points. They will guide the remediation r ecommendations Boswell makes, and allow the engineer to capture projected costs.
It is a necessary first step in assessing the scope and actual cost of reducing the harms accruing from every sandbar and eroded stream bank that have been left unattended for far too long.
A Hillsdale councilman quotes the water utility as saying
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ited number of property buyouts or home elevations. The DEP will help individual towns establish a stormwater utility, to raise funds for local drainage infrastructure improvements. But I donʼt think another tax is what flood burd ened residents, or struggling businesses, have in mind as “immediate relief measures.”
Mayor Calamari, myself, and the PVMA truly appreciate Veoliaʼs offer to meet and discuss the utility possibly defraying some of
the Phase 1 drone study costs. We will then report back to our respective councils and fellow PV mayors.
P erhaps this meeting will jumpstart a paradigm shift away from the status quo.
The PVMA, as well as the N ew Jersey State League of Municipalities, understand that doing nothing — wishing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will reemerge with a fully funded, environmentally viable, basin-wide
remediation plan — is a prescription for continued inaction.
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And each hurricane season we are reminded that decades of doing nothing, has severely compromised the brooksʼdrainage function. Which has done nothing but further immiserate our floodstressed residents. For these folks, a glimmer of hope is better than no hope at all. We thank Veolia for its willingness to dialogue.
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ingness to discuss the possibility of subsidizing these drone studies offers a glimmer of hope for future cooperation with the utility, which operates under the DEPs strict regulatory constraints.
To date, our county and federal representatives have offered no all-inclusive proactive solutions. FEMA mops up the flood aftermath. The state offers a lim-
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Bring your swing to Northwood Golf Club
The Northwood Golf Club, founded when Rockleigh Golf Course opened in 1959, invites area golfers who are interested in playing some friendly competitive golf to join its ranks.
The 2023 schedule of play includes 16 tournaments and two outings.
The tournament formats include individual, two-man, and four-man events with net and gross prizes. All players have sanctioned handicaps that range from single digits to upper ranges. The Club Championships have multiple flights to accommodate players at all skill levels. The Age Group Championships also have multiple flights to make room for the young bucks and the golden seniors who are still competing.
Play is primarily at the Bergen County courses, but other local courses are also used. For example, Rivervale Country Club is used so River Vale residents can take advantage of discounted greens fees.
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A few years ago organizers
added Paramus Golf Course as itʼs convenient for many members. This year theyʼre adding Blue Hills and Rockland State for the same reason.
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The $90 annual dues cover membership in the Metropolitan Golf Association, which includes a handicap service and the monthly MGA Magazine; tournament prize money; and trophies for special events.
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The 2023 tournament season
Clean-up
The Montvale Environmental Commission is hosting the Annual Montvale Clean-Up Day and celebrating Montvaleʼs Arbor Day and Nationwide Earth Day on themorning of Saturday, April 22.
Once again this year the Environmental Commission will be giving away shirts to the early arrivers. As a special treat for our environment, they are giving away seedlings as well.
Writes Bob Hanrahan, chair of the Montvale Environmental Commission, “Thatʼs right, early arriver residents who sign in will receive at least one small deer resistant tree in recognition of Montvaleʼs Arbor Day ”
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Arbor Day is when the Borough of Montvale encourages all residents to plant at least one tree in town. If a resident does not have an appropriate property to plant a tree, they can designate
the tree to be planted on borough property, where the Environmental Commission is organzing the planting of additional trees.
Hanrahan says trees reduce erosion, which prevents water problems; reduce heating and cooling costs; clean our air; produce oxygen; and are used to produce countless wood products.
Organizers encourage “anyone and everyone in the commu-
runs April 24 through Oct. 15. The outings are in May and September. The golf season concludes with the annual business dinner meeting at Madeleineʼs Petit Paris in Northvale to recognize the winners, elect officers, and review the season and the plans for next year.
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For more info and an application, contact secretary/treasurer Jim Dugan at dunloedoog@aol.com or (201) 666-8199.
nity to join at 9 a.m. All paticipants will receive gloves and garbage bags and be directed to a location in town to help cleanup.” The event runs until noon, when all of the garbage is returned to the DPW building across the street from the Red Shed.
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For more information visit montvale.org or call the Borough of Montvale at (201) 391-5700.
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Municipal pool registration underway
The Park Ridge Municipal Pool will open on Saturday, May 27. Pool memberships are open to all residents, previous pool members, and non-resident employees of Park Ridge borough and the local board of education.
A limited number of memberships will be offered to nonresidents, so get your registrations in early once they are avail-
Dennis J. KASER
Dennis J. Kaser, 71, of Hillsdale passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 23, 2023.
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Beloved husband of Bernadette (n ée Metzler) for 44 years. Devoted father of Gretchen Corsillo and her husband, Phil. Dear brother of Betty Kaser; Rosemary Calgi and her husband, Dominick; and Peter Kaser and his wife, Sue.
Also survived by his sister-inlaw Mary Ellen Kaser, numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, and his loving dog Traveler and granddog Helena.
He is predeceased by his brothers Fred Kaser and Paul Kaser and Paulʼs late wife, Marion and his parents, Alfred and Marie (née Birklbauer) Kaser.
Dennis was a mortgage banker for Allied Home Mortgage Capital Corp. He also worked in the chemical industry after graduating from NJIT.
He spent his high school years at Bergen Catholic. Dennis was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Westwood, and of the Park Ridge Rotary Club
He was a lifelong Yankees and Devils fan and loved music and theatre.
A Memorial Mass will be held
able.
New non-residents must be sponsored by a Park Ridge resident or prior pool member.
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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).
R egistration 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-
OBITUARIES
at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 13 at Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church, Park Ridge.
In lieu of flowers please donate in memory of Dennis to the Hillsdale Volunteer Ambulance Service.
Arrangements by Robert Spearing Funeral Home Inc., rsfhi.com.
Mary A. DUNNE
Mary A. Dunne, 87, of Emerson passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Beloved wife of Kenneth Dunne (deceased). Devoted mother of Kathleen Dunne, Angela Hofmeister, Kenneth Dunne and Mary Coombes. Loving grandmother of Harold Hofmeister, Morgan Hofmeister, Lucas Hofmeister, Christopher Dunne, Martin Coombes, and Paul Coombes. Devoted mother in law of Paul Coombes and Harold Hofmeister. Loving Aunt to many nieces and nephews.
Born in Blantyre Scotland, Mary moved to the United States in 1957. Mary worked as an administrative assistant at the British consulate in New York City before moving to Emerson, where she lived for over 55 years.
Mary retired from Burns and Roe after 20 years as an administrative assistant.
Mary was a devoted member
of the Church of Assumption Roman Catholic Church in Emerson.
Calla A. BRAZOFSKY
Calla Adelaide Brazofsky (n ée Ellis), 82 of Barnegat (2004–present),formerly of Park Ridge (1971–2004).
She was born on Sept. 11, 1940 in Maywood toArthur Ellis (1990) and Nellie Ellis (née Wheale, 2005).
She graduated from Bogota High School in 1958. She met her husband, James Frank Brazofsky, of Hasbrouck Heights at the Arcola Pool in Paramus, where they both worked part-time jobs during the summer.They were married on Sept. 5, 1958. They were married for 53 years until herhusband passed away in 2012.
Calla loved animals of all kinds, especially dogs and horses. Her love of dogs led her to join the Collie Club of Northern N.J. for many years.
Calla and Jim raised many dogs over the years until the arrival of their sons, James and Robert.
She attended all of her sonsʼ sporting events — from football, wrestling, basketball to baseball — in all weather, without a complaint. It wasnʼt until many years later she told us she spent every game in sheer terror at the thought of one of us getting hurt.
She enjoyed her grandchil-
dren: Kristy Izzo (Kris), Sara, Jimmy, Emma, Sadie and Taylor Calla. She loved hearing about each of their accomplishments, their sporting events, dance competitions, honor society inductions, high school and college graduations, marriages, and horseback riding stories.They always made her smile.
The week prior to her passing she found out that she was going to be a great-grandmother in the fall. She was over the moon.
She also liked to send her grandchildren some “WAM,” or as she called it, “walking around money.”
Calla enjoyed family vacations to the Jersey Shore but around 1980 she found her favorite vacation spot, Rocking Horse Ranch.Our many family trips to Rocking Horse always started and ended in Room 234.Her love of horseback riding made RHR a perfect fit. She loved early morning rides on her favorite horse, Rebel.
Calla was also an accomplished artist who could draw and paint better than Bob Ross. She could paint anything and everything you could ask. Whether it was her children, grandchildren, a horse or dog, she was never happy with the results — even though it was almost always perfect.
Prior to having kids she worked at Bendix Corporation in Teterboro as an executive secretary. She went back to work for the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company in Montvale from around 1989 until she retired from work in 1999.After years of sacrificing to pay for her sonʼs college tuition, it was time to purchase something she always wanted: a 1999 Camaro Z-28, black with T-tops, with the license plate CALLA.The car she still owns to this day and drove up until last week. She was the coolest grandma on the road but I donʼt think she ever went over 65 MPH in the 24 years she owned it. She would ask her sons to drive it periodically to test it out and most recently, her grandson, to take it for a spin and get some carbon out of the tailpipe.
When they moved to Barnegat it took some time to get used to their new home. She attended an art class in the area where she was able to showcase her talents and help others learn to paint. She volunteered at the local library as well.She also became a part of the newsletter committee at the Horizons at Barnegat. She always loved proofreading copy, collecting articles, photographs, and sending the publi-
sons and such activities as competitive swim and dive teams, arts and crafts, story time, Red Cross lifeguard training, and other special events as posted throughout the summer.
For more information visit parkridgeboro.com or write pool@parkridgeboro.com
cation off to the press. She always worried if the corrections would get in on time, if the newsletter would come in on time, and the weather when it was time to deliver it.But her favorite part of the newsletter was the “Grandparents Corner” where residents could brag on their grandchildren.I knew she had the inside line but she had the market cornered in the sheer number of articles about her children and grandchildren.
Along with her grandchildren and future great-grandchid, Calla is survived by her son Jim (Andrea), Rob (Tracy),sister Brenda Tamayne (Uncle Artie), and nephew Thomas Vardiman.
Jennifer N. HARTMANN
Jennifer N. Hartmann, 40 of Westwood passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. Beloved daughter of the late Robert Hartmann and Rita Hartmann. Dear sister of Theresa Magnuson (Justin) and Christine Revie (Peter). Loving Aunt of Jayden, Jace, Jaxon Magnuson, Mason and Morgan Revie.
Born in Teaneck, she lived in Westwood for four years. Jennifer was a medical assistant with Dr. Mark A. Gurland.
She was a parishioner of Our Lady Mother of the Church.
She was a lover of antique cars and enjoyed watching her favorite team, the New York Yankees.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lupus Foundation of America (lupus.org).
Joan GOODMAN
Joan Goodman, 98, of Hillsdale passed away peacefully on March 22, 2023.
Joan was born on April 16, 1924 to Emily and Albert Nilsen of Plainfield. Joan married Alexander Goodman in 1949, and eventually settled in Hillsdale, where she resided for more than 65 years.
She is predeceased by her husband, Alexander Goodman; son Thomas Goodman; and sister Margaret Nilsen. She is survived by son Stephen (Lynn); daughter Suzanne; grandchildren Jay, Doug (Janet), Laura, and Holly; and great-grandchildren Jason, Christopher, and Matthew
A private graveside service for Joan was held on March 24 at Hillside Cemetery in Scotch Plains.
TGA, REC SPRING BREAK SPORTS CAMP
PARK RIDGE
Staying home for spring break? The Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee offers TGA Sports Camp for spring break week (April 10–14) at Davies Memorial Field. Camp is for kids ages 5–12 who want to stay active and play a variety of sports/games during their week off. There are half-day (9
a.m. to noon) and full-day (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) options. TGA coaches have a fun week of sports planned: golf, tennis, flag football, lacrosse, soccer, ultimate frisbee, and more. Register at Bergencounty.playtga.com. For more info, write krooney@playtga.com or lfalkenstern@parkridgeboro.com, or call the rec at (201) 573-1800 ext. 521.
MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE
Join our ever growing sales team as as Sales Associate for the Pascack Press, Northern Valley Press North and South and near future publications. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 201-664-2105 OR SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net
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.
the seasonal nature of this position, the ideal candidate will have the ability to work a varying schedule.
Primary responsibility of this position is inventory management for landscape & holiday decorating materials. Attention to detail, the ability to follow processes & procedures & organizational skills are critical qualities. Ability to operate small to mid-size trucks required, as is a drivers license. Additional responsibilities include facility maintenance, picking up materials & possibly additional responsibilities such as equipment maintenance as the position grows. Hours & requirements of this position will fluctuate throughout the year. The busiest times will be during our holiday decorating season of Oct. thru Jan., when hours will be up to 40/week working Mon. thru Fri. From Feb. thru Sept., hours will vary from 8 to 24 hours per week. Call 844-642-9627 for more details.
Kitchen Cabinet installers helper. Must have basic knowledge of tools. Valid drivers license. Ken Bauer Kitchens, Hillsdale NJ (201)664-6881.
SERVICES - CLEANING
Cleaning business that values honesty and integrity with many years exp. Competitively priced with close attention to detail. Ref. Avail. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Call or text Analu for free estimate. 973-474-7383
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THEUPS STORE is now accepting applications. Join our team today! Email your resume to store1588@theupsstore.com.
Live-in housekeeper, private room with full bath, light housekeeping. Call (201) 960-7707.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT–
HILLSDALE
BOROUGH (BERGEN COUNTY) The Borough of Hillsdale is seeking a part-time administrative professional with experience in providing administrative support in the Municipal Clerk’s Office. This position is part-time and not to exceed 20 hours per week. The candidate must be able to work independently, take initiative, prioritize tasks and meet deadlines. Must be able to work well with residents, co-workers and elected officials. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook is required. Salary is dependent upon qualifications, however this is an entry level position. EOE. The Borough reserves the right to interview qualified candidates prior to the deadline. Email resume, cover letter and salary requirements to Denise Kohan, Borough Clerk, at dkohan@hillsdalenj.org by March 31, 2023.
Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck. 185,000 miles with 15k on new 350 v8 motor. $6,300. Hillsdale (201) 783-0353.
Park - Small apartment. 1 br. with garage. $1,200 per month. Call (201)7393561 for more information.
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