Pascack Press 5.1.23

PARK RIDGE

KIDSAID PEDIATRIC HOSPITALIN UKRAINE

Community rallies on sale of baked goods, jewelry; students raise, donate $300

Two East Brook Elementary School fourth graders, backed by a generous school community, recently made a lovely gift to a childrenʼs hospital in Ukraine.

Caroline Parks and Devon Stine decided to run a fundraiser to help children who are being treated in the ravaged country, at Ohmatdyt Hospital. They raised more than $300 on sales of cookies, brownies, and homemade loom jewelry, and donated the proceeds.

Ohmatdyt Hospital says itʼs the largest childrenʼs hospital in Ukraine, where up to 20,000 children are treated annually and some 10,000 surgeries are performed annually. The need, of course, is greater because of Russian president Vladimir Putinʼs invasion.

Jennifer Parks tells Pascack Press, “Caroline and Devon started by making loom jewelry. They made bracelets and necklaces in various colors and styles. As they got closer to the sale, they started packaging dozens of cookies and brownies. On

See KIDS on page 14

A SPRING BREAK TO GROW WITH A SPRING BREAK TO GROW WITH

Local girls thrive at AHAʼs Oxford study abroad

VALLEY

SHOVELSIN ONCOUNTY CAREER, TECHNICAL SCHOOL

Planned grand opening 2025 in Paramus; aims in part to fill job shortages

The Bergen County Technical School District held a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, April 18, to mark the beginning of construction for a new Career and Technical Education School at their Paramus Campus.

Emerson and Park Ridge youth were among the students of Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest who spent spring break at the upper school’s Oxford Study Abroad Program.AHA English Department Chair Nancy Schneberger wrote the curriculum for this critical thinking course, which is offered at Pembroke College

IMAGINEHAVING the chance to attend a world-renowned university where you immerse yourself in a class that was tailor-made for you. Each spring, students from the Academy of the Holy Angels enjoy this exciting opportunity through the

upper schoolʼs Oxford Study Abroad Program.

AHA English Department Chair Nancy Schneberger wrote the curriculum for this bespoke critical thinking course, which is offered at Pembroke College. This unique program has been

available since 2018, with a brief interruption at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This April, Schneberger chaperoned the trip with her husband, William Schneberger, and AHA Social Studies Department

Continued on page 26

The new Career and Technical Education (CTE) school will bridge the gap between high school and postsecondary plans, providing a versatile curriculum that prepares students for their next step, whether it is a trade apprenticeship program, a twoyear college, or four-year college. CTE focuses on academic, employability, and technical skills used in a specific occupation.

The school will feature programs tailored to address shortages in high-demand fields that will help our nation remain competitive in a 21st century global economy including fabrication and design, logistics, and dental science. Itʼs set to open in 2025 and will support the capacity for about

See SHOVELS on page 34

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

PASCACK

To the editor:

PASCACK PRESS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

it makes a very good representation of hiring more people who are neurodivergent.

More than awareness, we need autism acceptance — not just simply knowing about and being educated about autism, but seeing it as positive, and as a complete way of being. Everybody is imperfect, and many enjoy being different.

Autistic people should be given work for which they have passion and natural gifts, because that is how we succeed. It correlates with our very need to feel seen.

In my experience as a member of the autisitc community, many autists have a deep self-awareness, wanting to be accepted and deserving the space, time, and providence to show pride in being autistic in our own ways. Unfortunately, many businesses and work environments have not reached the full height of acceptance values. Pride follows acceptance. A few autistic people out there are very perceptive about what matters most to them, and wish — in all areas of their lives —

to celebrate every aspect of themselves, and add to a teamʼs success. Our special interests give us an intense focus on whatever we love.

I am certain that special interest equals productive work, and with autism, I believe that celebrating individuality equals efficiency and profitability, which is a beautiful, powerful combination.

tantly, do what they are best at, especially at work, whether for teams in companies or any improvements or additions and contributions to any businesses.

Autistic people should be allowed to try for any job and should be treated the same as neurotypicals. Because of the very giftedness in their brain makeup, they can perform extremely well when given the most fitting task or duty.

A few businesses in the creative art field, in which autistic workers really thrive, can be writing for some, visual art such as drawing or painting, and possibly digital art such as filmmaking. Autistic people also excel in fields related to math and science.

Nuerodivergent people just know how our brains work, and inspiration is a key to our success. I believe thatʼs wonderful and empowering.

I READ YOUR recent front page story about working toward independence (“Working Up to Independence:Districts, businesses team up for winning life skills,” John Snyder, April 10, page 1), and CONTINUED

Autism should not be seen as a disability in the workplace or in education. For example, if coworkers use the phrase learning disability or disorder in regard to the neurodivergent employee, that should be corrected to different and giftedwith overall ability. We need more than just the term different abilities We need to see that there are endless possibilities and ways for “the disabled” to do things, go about things, and build things, and most impor-

I look forward, one day, to having the first autistic U.S. President, voted for by neurotypicals, autists, and those in groups with other neurodiversity, such as ADHD, or Down syndrome. That person can be an extremely good president in many ways, unique from how other presidents were but still the same level of greatness, helping anyone of any diversity in the country.

One day there may even be the first autistic individual to go to outer space.

In the workplace, autists should be treated and viewed how people of different races, cultures, religions, or identities, are treated and viewed. Itʼs not that they look different, or come from a different background, but rather that their brain is different on an individual level. That

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.

‘We need autism acceptance’

Pushback on engineer report over waterway status

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

A professional engineer from Emerson — who previously questioned the use of LIDAR data to determine whether an unnamed tributary to the Musquapsink Brook is a regulated waterway — told Pascack Press that the calculations used by Boswell Engineering to keep certain areas out of its drainage basin were “based on a technicality.”

“The developerʼs engineer basically kept areas out of the drainage area calculations based on a technicality that pipes in the existing (Northgate) development were not sized for a 100-year storm. Pipes in New Jersey not being sized for a 100-year storm should be a source of shame. It is the reason downtowns flooded during (remnants of Hurricane) Ida and streets poured down driveways into homes,” said Carol Hoernlein, a private professional engineer who had criticized a prior basin calculation that appeared to leave off a large tract of Northgate land.

She added, “In the rest of the world and at the USGS, a drainage area is a drainage area. The water that falls as rain in that area flows to the same spot, culvert, or creek by gravity. But now we know how the incredible shrinking drainage area for this one proposed development occurred and exactly why the method chosen was not based on USGS Streamstats data.”

Hoernlein charged, “NJDEP allowed the designation of a drainage area to be shrunken simply based on rate of conveyance in pipes from an existing development and not the geography. This is a very bad precedent to set if New Jersey has any hope of clean water and protection from climate change.”

She also told Pascack Press that based on its drainage to the Musquapsink Brook, which is classified as a NT-C1 (non-trout production, Category One) waterway, it was likely that the unnamed tributary was a Category One waterway

If the waterway is declared a regulated or Category One waterway, itʼs likely any potential development at 660-682 Pascack Road would need to follow NJDEP rules for water quality protection, possibly including buffers, and implement stricter stormwater quality and quantity measures.

A Meisten Street neighbor has also voiced doubts about Boswellʼs April 17 oral report that found the basin was not a regulated waterway. However, a prior Pascack Press review of NJDEP Category One waterways posted online revealed that tributaries to the Oradell Reservoir, a source of drinking water for hundreds of thousands of Bergen and Passaic county residents, are considered Category One, or protected waterways.

The unnamed tributary behind the proposed strip mall joins up with the Musquapsink Brook, enters Schlegel Lake, and joins Pascack Brook as it heads towards the Oradell Reservoir. Boswell did not mention water supply, or the Oradell Reservoir, in his oral report to council on April 17.

(See “Do Mall Applicantʼs Drainage Basin Calculations Hold Water?”, Michael Olohan, March 12, 2023, Pascack Press.)

“I listened to Mr. Boswellʼs presentation on drainage area and LIDAR (data) precision, but the gentlemen who spoke after Mike Agnello (Councilman Tom Sears and resident James Walsh, Burke Street) had very good points. Areas were left out that should have been

included. I donʼt agree with Mr. Boswell when he spoke about the 100-year storm as an excuse to remove such a large area from the drainage area maps,” Hoernlein told Pascack Press April 25.

LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data is gathered from aerial sources (drones, planes, and helicopters) that works on the principle of radar, but uses light from a laser. The laser bounces back off ground elevations to provide an accurate measure of ground contours and elevations, helping to outline the areas draining into a waterway or waterway segment.

James Walsh of Burke Street also questioned why certain drainage areas at the end of Burke Street were excluded from Boswell basin maps. Walsh said the areas excluded “could easily put you over the 50 acres.”

However, Boswell said if the storm drain outlets are not designed for 100-year storms, they are not included in the drainage area. Walsh insisted the topography indicated the area drained to the unnamed tributary. Boswell said the DEP manual said they should be excluded.

Sears wondered who entered the LIDAR data into the computers

to arrive at the basin calculations and also why three different engineers arrived at three different conclusions about the tributaryʼs drainage basin size. He said the engineersʼconclusions offered “multiple confusions” about what the basinʼs estimated size was and what happened to a previously designated Category One waterway.

“I was encouraged by the (councilʼs) questions and their concern and respect for the residents who spoke. They seem to understand the issues at stake here. I was concerned though, that the (Township) Engineer often tries in other towns to advocate to get NJDEP regulated waters unregulated,” Hoernlein said via email.

In addition to Hoernlein, 667 Meisten St. resident Michael Agnello continues to voice his opposition to the tributaryʼs nonregulated status. He said he had repeatedly been told that the waterway behind his house is a Category One waterway, required protection,

and was protected by a property easement on his land for nearly 50 years.

Recently, without explanation, the unnamed tributary was also left off of Boswell Engineeringʼs February 2023 study of conditions in the Musquapsink Brook, titled Musquapsink Brook Condition Assessment, although the study named two other “unnamed” tributaries to the brook, and lists both as Category One waterways. (Pascack Press requested a copy of the report after seeing it mentioned on a recent Bills List.)

At the April 17 Township Council meeting, Boswell said the process for determining the drainage area of a flood hazard area was outlined in the state DEPʼs technical manual section 2.1.3.

He said he “paraphrased” one section of the technical manual, noting drainage areas that drain

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

Bckintime... Bckintime...

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

Fun with Uncle Ed and the Township’s Fair Play Club

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

WHOREMEMBERS Washington Townshipʼs Fair Play Club? Maybe you were a member of this club as a youngster, or you had a brother who was.

RAMADAN CHARITY DINNERCOMES THROUGH ON WHEELCHAIR

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS WESTWOOD

ORGANIZERS OF a Ramadan charity dinner at the Westwood Community Center on Saturday, April 15 report a huge success — a critical piece of hardware is inbound for a 9-year-old brain cancer

See RAMADAN on page 19

Ridgewood Road resident Edward Barber single-handedly started the Fair Play Club in 1963 after some older bullies had jumped his 10year-old son and two other neighborhood boys. Barber set out to teach his son and friends the art of self-defense and help them build muscle, all while giving lessons on some rules and regulations of fair play.

The boys invited their friends, who invited their friends, and so on. Within a few years the club that started with just three kids had grown to include more than 200 local boys, ages 5 through 15, who were meeting Saturday mornings on Barberʼs 2-acre property to learn about physical fitness and sportsmanship. All through the warm months they climbed ropes, had boxing matches, did push-ups and chin-ups, played basketball, and lifted weights. The members were given matching shirts with the club logo (depicting a handshake) and they marched in the Memorial Day parade with a Fair Play Club banner.

In addition to a bevy of athletic equipment that he had paid for and built with his own two

hands, Barberʼs property was a fun atmosphere for the boys, with a barn, horses, and three dogs running around. The Fair Play Club, for the many hours it involved, was a volunteer role. In his professional life Barber ran the Township Fuel Oil Co., a delivery service for oil heat customers.

The rugged 6-foot-tall, 215-pound Barber, whom the boys affectionately called “Uncle Ed,” had served as a paratrooper during World War II and placed a high value on physical fitness. When the boys asked if he could climb the 20-foot rope, Barber was a good sport and fought his way to the top.

“I canʼt expect them to do things that I canʼt do,” he told a reporter back in August of 1967.

In a club of over 200 boys, there were bound to be conflicts. However, Barberʼs verbal ban on fighting (expect for friendly matchups in the boxing ring) was dutifully heeded—a testament to how much the kids looked up to him. He believed that a key to keeping young people out of trouble was giving them a worthwhile alternative.

Fair Play Club members wait their turn to have their new shirts fitted at club headquarters at the Barber residence on Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington,one fine day in 1966.Edward Barber holds a shirt against Don O’Connell as Stephen Oberson,Tommy O’Connell, Ricky Oberson, and Bill Commerford look on.

in 1967.

For his efforts, the township gave him an award for helping to keep the juvenile delinquency rate low

“We teach self-defense,” Barber explained to a reporter in 1969, by which time the group had grown to include 250 boys. “We also stress that a boy should not go looking for a fight, but if one is pressed on him, he should have the physical stamina, know-how, and courage to face it. That is the basic tenet of this group.”

He added, “If our program reaches three out of 10 boys, we feel it is successful. In fact, if only one boy gets a lot out of the program, we are contented.”

Barber also dispensed life advice, telling the boys to avoid hitchhiking and to keep their hair cut short and tidy (this was, after all, the late 1960s).

“I tell them they can have long hair if their fathers have long hair, and I know most of their fathers—they donʼt have long hair,” Barber said

In April of 1966, as the club was taking enrollment for the coming season, an article appeared in the Park Ridge Local newspaper that showed just how enthusiastic the boys were: “All members are requested not to get to classes before 10 a.m. please, please, please! Some have been arriving 15 or 30 minutes ahead of time and if it keeps up that way, theyʼll start camping on the doorstep the night before.”

As the club grew, it evolved to include a formal registration process and a crew of parent volunteers. Held every summer, the seasonal program would end with the awarding of trophies in various categories for the boys who had made the most progress, as well as a big family picnic.

After the 1970 season, Barber left the township. He moved to upstate New York with the goal of starting a boysʼsummer camp on a 150-acre property he had bought near Cooperstown. With help from the townshipʼs Contemporary Womanʼs Club, which took on the Fair Play Club as a fundraising project, parent volunteers kept the program going into the 1970s, but it eventually disbanded.

— Kristin Beuscher is president of Pascack Historical Society.

Publisher John J. DeFina

EditorJohn Snyder

Staff Writer Michael Olohan

Contributing EditorKristin Beuscher

Art Director Keith J. Harcher

Director of AdvertisingGeorge F. Harcher

Local kids “learn the ropes” at Ed Barber’s Fair Play Club in the summer of 1967. The club taught boys about physical fitness,self-defense,and sportsmanship.

Meeting the need: Township of Washington residents Jennifer Skuches of Grace’s Gold Ribbon Gang and Saba Khan organized a dinner to raise funds for a little girl’s adaptive wheelchair.(Courtesy photo)

Rendo on airplane noise, ’23 budget, pickleball

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Increasing flights by jet aircraft headed to Teterboro Airport are “very hectic” over the weekends above borough skies and need to be addressed, Mayor Carlos Rendo said in a Facebook Live broadcast on April 18.

He said several residents planned to attend a Coffee With The Mayor hour-long event on April 23 at Whole Foods Market to explore other suggestions.

Rendo has held a few Saturday coffee events in 2023 as part of an initiative to increase transparency with residents over local issues of concern. Rendo, a two-term Republican mayor, heads an all-Democratic council.

He and two running mates are planning to challenge a Democratic slate that includes former Councilwoman Nancy Gross running for mayor, along with her two running mates.

(See “Election Hopefuls Set Hot Primary Ballot,” April 3, 2023, Michael Olohan.)

“Sundays are awful with planes. I sit in my backyard and itʼs constant, one after the other after the other after the other,” said Rendo. He said the borough has been working to reduce airplane flights and noise “for years” and the effort is fully supported by the 10 mayors in Pascack Valley Mayorsʼ Association.

He said they would continue to pressure the Federal Aviation Administration, Teterboro, and other airport stakeholders, “to bring some relief to our residents.”

Last year, the mayorsʼ association requested a seat on the Teterboro Aircraft Noise Abatement Advisory Committee, or TANAAC, and was unanimously rejected by TANAAC members.

“We are the one community that gets the most planes over our skies on Saturdays and Sundays,” said Rendo, noting he had requested flyover data from Teterboro officials last year.

The Facebook broadcast was less than 30 minutes and dealt with a variety of topics. He also briefly interviewed Chief Financial Officer Jonathan DeJoseph on his position and the 2023 budget process.

He said he was consistently asked “why are our taxes so high?” and why residents do not have serv-

ices to match the high taxes. He said the borough portion of local taxes is “24 cents on the dollar”, while the “bulk of your taxes” is the schoolsʼtax portion of “62 cents on the dollar” while about 14 cents goes to Bergen County.

Rendo said “We have no say” in the school district or Bergen County budgets which they must pay. He said the borough still has “one of the lowest tax basis of any municipality in Bergen County…we still are very reasonable concerning the municipal taxes we pay ”

He said the borough had been able to cut healthcare costs for 2023 by an estimated $100,000 by outsourcing employee health benefits to a new plan. He said the new plan maintained similar employee health benefits from the current one.

He said the borough was in “intense negotiation” with the police on their contract to keep the

budget within its state-mandated 2% annual budget cap increase.

Rendo said the budget will be introduced at the May 22 council meeting and adopted at a June meeting.

Prior to discussing budget items, Rendo said the Parks & Recreation Department was awaiting a county grant to install two pickleball courts, probably near the

boroughʼs tennis courts, although a final site had yet to be selected.

Moreover, he said the county recently pulled permits and was looking to construct up to nine pickleball courts at the countyowned Wood Dale Park. He said improvements would be made around the tennis courtsʼarea. “So thatʼs exciting news.”

RENDO GROSS

Borough looks to buy DePiero land; bond proposed

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The borough looks to acquire more than 8 acres of farmland for possible recreational and community uses, its second major land purchase within the last year, said the mayor in an email and Facebook Live and Zoom broadcasts to residents.

The Borough Council intro-

duced a $5.15 million bonding ordinance at its April 25 meeting to acquire nearly 8.4 acres of farmland owned by members of the DePiero family on Craig Road and Summit Avenue.

A public hearing on the ordinance to acquire the properties will be held May 11 and a public hearing on the $5.15 million bond ordinance will be held May 30. The council introduced both ordinances by 6-0 votes.

During a Facebook Live Q&A

on April 24, Ghassali said the DePiero family would continue to operate the farmstand at 53 Craig Road for another year and noted the borough has reached out to other farms in the area to see if there was interest in keeping the farm going. Last summer, Pascack Press reported on the financial struggles of the DePiero Farm Stand and Greenhouses — Montvaleʼs last remaining farm — that was hoping to hang on and celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2024.

(See “Mayor Rallies For DePieroʼs Shy Of 100th Year,” Michael Olohan, September 12, 2022, Pascack Press.)

Ghassali said the proposed $5,150,000 bond to purchase the land would be a 25-year bond, and said officials would know the bond interest rate when they sell the bonds in the future.

“I really believe that this is very important to acquire for the future of the borough and that it not

be sold to a private development,” Ghassali said on Facebook Live April 24. He said Montvale Landscaping would acquire 6.5 acres for its use on the southern side of the DePiero property.

Ghassali said that the propertyʼs acquisition and possible future development for a community center or recreational fields would be helpful in relieving traffic con-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

FROM PAGE 6

gestion on the other side of town. He said a community pool or community garden on the site were also suggested as possibilities.

Ghassali said the $5 million in bonding would cost an average household $70 yearly over a 25year term. He noted the boroughʼs $4.6 million acquisition last year to purchase 28.4 acres at 127 Summit Ave. costs an average $64 yearly. He said thatʼs “less than $6 a month for each of the properties.”

In an email to residents, Ghassali said, “Over the past year, we have been engaged in efforts to try to preserve this last remaining farmland in the Borough. We

reached out to County and State officials to find out if there were funds available for farmland preservation; unfortunately, we encountered limited funding and a general lack of interest from individuals who wanted to continue the use of the property as farmland.”

He added, “Faced with no better alternatives, we believe that acquiring this property for future active and/or passive recreation purposes is in the best interests of the Borough. As part of this deal, the DePiero family will continue to operate the greenhouses for at least the next year. There are also some residential leases on the property that will need to be honored until they expire. However, this property is ideally suited for future development as sports fields or courts, a community center, or any number

of other uses by the Borough,” Ghassali said.

Ghassali noted due to the proposed purchase, the initial plans for a new community center on Memorial Drive are put on hold “until we assess the feasibility and desirability of the new location for the community center.” He said he welcomed ideas from the public to help determine the best use for the property.

A video of the April 25 mayor and council budget public hearing should be posted on “My Montvale TV” within days of the meeting, said Mayor Mike Ghassali.

On April 25, the council also approved bond ordinance No. 2023-1535 that appropriated $2, 848,000 for various borough capital improvements. The ordinance

The Park Ridge Municipal Pool The Park Ridge Municipal Pool

approved the issuance of $2,735,500 in bonds or notes.

Asked by a resident on his Facebook Live broadcast who made the decision not to put the $5.15 million bond up for a referendum, Ghassali said it was “best to jump in and buy it now” and that the council agreed.

In other news, Ghassali said that Veolia North America, the water utility, was considering the

purchase of 2 acres of property at 127 Summit Ave. to install a water tower to help improve long-standing water pressure concerns. He noted water pressure on the East side was high while water pressure on the West side of town was low. He said the utility would pay market value for the potentially buildable land that it required to construct a water tower.

FLYBYONBROOK FINDSACTIONITEMS

A report on nearly 100 o bstructions along the Musquapsink Brook — a Category One protected waterway that leads to Oradell Reservoir — lists

such study of a Pascack Valley waterway to help alleviate increasing flooding concerns plaguing the areaʼs towns. Recently Pascack Press reported that West-

two unnamed tributaries as “C1” waterways but not the unnamed tributary that runs behind the site of a proposed 17,100-square-foot strip mall at Pascack Road and Washington Avenue.

(And recently, a Boswell Engineering official, Kevin Boswell, said the unnamed tributary was not a “regulated waterway” nor a “C1” waterway because it drained only 48.832 acres and not the 50 acres required under NJDEP Flood Hazard Area Act rules.

(See “So Close! Drainage Basin Nears Proposed Mall Shy Of 50-Acre Threshold,” Michael Olohan, April 24, 2022.)

An engineering study based on a drone flyover of the 3.6-milelong section of Musquapsink Brook that flows through the township revealed nearly 100 concerns currently impairing stream flow, likely increasing flooding and threatening water quality while offering recommendations to address them.

The flyby informed the first

wood was considering a drone study. (See “Council Floats on Drone Study of Brook, Michael Olohan, March 27, 2023.)

The Boswell Engineering study of the Musquapsink Brook lists 45 downed trees and 33 sediment shoals as obstructions, 14 areas where stream banks require stabilizing and five potential “critical sanitary issues” where the stream runs near a sanitary sewer line, and offers recommendations to help improve stream flow and minimize local flooding.

Moreover, the report cited one issue that requires the “utmost priority” — stream bank erosion exposing a concrete sanitary manhole on three sides.

It also lists other “critical sanitary issues” where the brook either runs near or around a sanitary sewer structure or sewer line that could expose human and household wastes to the stream flow or allow stream flow to enter a sanitary sewer line.

P Paassccaacck k P Prreesss s welcomes press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements and event photographs from all towns in the Pascack Valley. Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

— Michael Olohan

An eroded stream bank exposes a metal manhole cover that Boswell Engineering identified as a critical sanitary issue in its condition assessment report on the Musquapsink Brook. Photo: Mike Olohan

PASCACK VALLEY

Hills-Valley Coalition Zooms May 8

The Hills-Valley Coalition says, “Please join us to discuss the safety of our children and how best to support our families here from our juvenile officers, school administrators, student representatives and local mental health providers. It takes a village can be

part of ours.”

The Hills-Valley Coalition virtual meeting is set for Monday, May 8 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. For the Zoom link, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9099516

173. Meeting ID is 9099516173.

HILLSDALE

BROADWAYTOBEPAVEDTHISYEAR

M ayor John Ruocco gave residents a brief update to “one facet of the extensive road improvement/paving program that the Borough will be embarking on this year in the wake of all the utility digging that has taken place.”

He said on April 22, “With the countyʼs concurrence, Broad-

RIVER VALE

way will be paved this year from the Woodcliff Lake border to the Westwood border. The issue of replacing the ADA ramps, which had previously been a complicating factor in the planning, has been resolved since the County has decided that it is possible to delay their replacement until the repaving of Broadway is com-

plete.”

Ruocco thanked county officials “for displaying flexibility in arriving at this decision and for being responsive to the needs of the borough, and to our own professionals as well for communicating those needs to the county.”

Staff report

Seniors celebrate birthdays May 17

The River Vale Senior Friendship Club has two upcoming members-only meetings:

•May 17 to celebrate January–June birthdays. This includes a musical performance by Francine and Joel.

•June 21 for a barbecue

luncheon sponsored by the River Vale Police Department.

•The May 31 trip to Resorts

Catskills Casino is sold out. Heads up: Aug. 21–23 brings a three-day/two-night trip to Lancaster, Penn., $470 per person, 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. Deposit received no later than June 10. For information call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.

50+CLUBICE CREAMSOCIAL MAY 3

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

Spring Luncheon

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

Rare Flying Tiger pilot wings, Roseville ‘Falline’ vases

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

BYJONFELZ R.Z.M. FINE ARTS & ANTIQUES INC.

Greetings, Jon, My father was a pilot before, d uring, and after World War II. He was secretive about h is experience during the war. When we empt ied his safe deposit box after his death we found this item I have photographed for you. We can't find any information about it. Can you tell us what this is? Does it have any value?

— Dan in Westwood

Hi, Dan, Congratulations! You are in possession of a pair of rare and important World War II Chinese Flying Tigers pilots wings. Your father flew missions in China before Americaʼs entry into World War II. The enamel letters CNAC stand for The China National Avi-

ation Corporation. CNAC was created prior to, and integral during and after WWII.

Before Americaʼs entry in the Pacific War, CNAC pioneered the famous routes over the Himalayan Mountains between India and China. The CNAC as a whole provided airlift for the Flying Tigers, transporting personnel and supplies to and from various Flying Tiger bases.

After July 1942, when the Flying Tigers were merged into the 14th Air Force some of the Tiger pilots joined the CNAC. This is probably what your father did. Flying as much as 150 hours a month, in unarmed transports, these pilots flew in cloudy weath-

This week: World War II Chinese Flying Tigers pilots wings;the Roseville pottery company produced these Falline pattern pieces.

er or at night to avoid deadly Japanese fighters. From April, 1942, when the Burma Road was lost, to August 1945, CNAC crews made more than 38,000 trips over the Hump (Himalayan Mountains), transporting approximately 114, 500 tons of vital personnel and materials to the Chinese and American forces in China, Burma, and India.

This operation was so successful that the Berlin airlift post WWII was patterned after it. CNAC also played an important

role in the Burma campaign supplies to Chinese and American ground forces, evacuating beleaguered Chinese and British troops

MOV ING? DOW NSIZING?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

and supplying the Ledo Road project with men and equipment.

Kids: Fundraiser for children hospitalized in Ukraine

FROM PAGE 1

Thursday, April 20, the girls set up a table outside of their school at dismissal and with the support of East Brook principal Kevin Stokes, putup signs advertising their fundraiser. They invited entire school to purchase their treats and jewelry.

Parks says the response from the school community was overwhelming. “People were impressed by the girlsʼdedication and willingness to help others. Many people bought multiple items and donated even more money than the asking price. Caroline and Devon were

thrilled by the success of their fundraiser and after only one afternoon they sold out of the cookies and brownies and most of the jewelry.”

She says Caroline and Devon were excited to discover that they had raised more than $300. “The funds raised by Caroline and Devon will go to helping the hospital purchase much-needed medical equipment and supplies.”

And she says, “Caroline and Devonʼs fundraiser is an excellent example of how small acts of kindness can make even a difference in the lives of others. These two young girls show that anyone, no matter their age, can make a positive impact

on the world.”

On April 24, the 425th day of Putinʼs invasion, the Guardian reported, “Russia has switched to defensive positions in all its areas of combat apart from Bakhmut, according to the Ukrainian head of intelligence Kyrylo Budanov.”

In an interview with RBC Ukraine, Budanov said: “The only places on the frontline where they are making attempts are in the city of

Bakhmut, an attempt to cover the city of Avdiivka from the north, and localized fighting in the city of Marinka. Both in Avdiivka and Marinka the tactics are identical to those in Bakhmut – just an attempt to wipe the settlement off the face of the earth.”

Ohmatdyt Hospitalʼs website [Ohmatdyt.com] gives heartbreaking stories, among them:

•The story of little Illya from

Mariupol: the mother of a 10-yearold boy died in his arms, and the child was taken to the territory not controlled by Ukraine; May 15, 2022

•The story of 10-year-old Ilya Matvienko is, unfortunately, one of the many stories of Mariupol children.

•The story of 12-year-old Kira from Mariupol: Russians killed her father and abducted the wounded girl to the territory not controlled by Ukraine; May 3, 2022. (“At the age of just 12, Kira has been through a lot. She lost her mother in early childhood. Then, her native Mariupol was destroyed by war. The girlʼs father, former captain of the Ukrainian national water polo team Yevhen Obedinsky, was shot dead in front of his daughter. […]”

• “I thought my leg was torn off, but I was more worried about my son and wife.” A wounded family from Chernihiv is being treated in Ohmatdyt; April 8, 2022. The son of Natalia and Oleksandr, Daniel, is only 6 years old

•The war doesnʼt let patients get timely diagnosis: Ohmatdyt doctors rescue a child with intestinal pathology; March 31, 2022.

—John Snyder

Caroline Parks and Devon Stine,left to right,decided to run a fundraiser to help children who are being treated in Ukraine’s Ohmatdyt Hospital.The school community came through. Jennifer Parks photo

Ask the Appraiser:

FROM PAGE 12

It was a cruel and demanding operation, from which many CNAC planes and their crews never returned.

Your pilot wings are of solid sterling silver construction and as I can easily determine, have remained in very good condition. In addition you still have the original cardboard box. Believe me, collectors love original boxes.

In todayʼs red-hot military memorabilia collectables market, the value of these pilot wings with the original box is $2,500. You may want to put them back in the safe deposit box, as these pilot wings are rare to encounter and most certainly will increase in value.

Roseville ʻFallineʼpottery

Hello, Jon,

My mom and I enjoy your weekly column! We think itʼs the best addition to the Pascack Press in years.

Please see the attached pics of several Roseville pieces weʼve collected over the years. Any insight to these pieces would be appreciated.

The blue vase is 9.5” and the others are 10” and 15”.

Laura Carlsen

Laura,

It is my pleasure to be read each week by many people like you and your mother. Itʼs the many letters I receive each month from folks like you, in the Bergen County area, that encourage me each day.

The Roseville pottery company was founded in early 1890 by John Frederick Weaver in Roseville, Ohio. Despite moving the company operation to Zanesville, Ohio just eight years later, the Roseville name continued to be used.

Throughout the early part of the 20th century Roseville pottery could be found in many homes, on the east coast and was in great demand.

Every several years a new pattern would be designed and marketed in luxury department stores to the local hardware store. The company produced vases, candle holders, bowls and teapots. Your three vases are in the Falline pattern, circa the 1930s. This pattern was often called the pea pod pattern. Your vases feature an encircled pea pod like decoration

below a row of waves. Each vase will have a satin matte finish. Usually found marked with a Roseville silver paper label on the base.

It appears said paper labels have been lost to time on your particular vases. Assuming each vase has remained in very good condition meaning no chips, cracks or repairs, the current replacement value for each vase is $300 to $400.

Roseville pottery prices have under gone price upheavals throughout time, where the value kept rising, as it did in early 2000s and falling back as it did until 2021.

Recently, though, there has been a stabilization of the value of these pieces. The value of individual pieces of Roseville varies depending on particular patterns, shapes and sizes. Your pattern is much sought after by serious collectors. A better pattern to have.

Thank you for sharing these beautiful pieces of American Art pottery with us.

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.

P Paassccaacck k P Prreesss s welcomes press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements and event photographs from all towns in the Pascack Valley. Send all

FROM PAGE 2 goes for every functioning level of the spectrum, no matter how many needs they have or donʼt have.

For any employers out there considering hiring people with autism, I hope that you consider these positives. If any autistic employees or soon-to-become employees are reading this, I hope that this inspires you. In your workplace, as everywhere else, you deserve the correct acceptance and to feel proud.

Bradley Zysfain River Vale

Elks raffle funds vital work — thanks to all

To the editor:

TH E W E STWOOD E L KS h eld t heir 50/50 Gold Raffle drawing on the afternoon of Sunday, April 16. Having sold a ll 200 tickets, we had a grand prize of $10,000 for the lucky winners. There were two, who split the winnings at $5,000 per ticket. We also had three consolation prizes of $150 apiece —

Spread the word!

one of which was donated back to our lodge. (Thank you very much.)

We had DJ Dave Sachi as our entertainment. Flynnʼs Deli p rovided delectable heroes and hot dishes.

I thank all who supported t his event. This helps our lodge to keep doing our important charitable work, such as helping m entally challenged children and adults, veterans and their families, running youth activit ies and drug awareness events, and our community and first responders.

Thanks to our members, their friends and families, Montvale landscaping, Daveyʼs Irish Pub, Peppercorns, the Hillsdale Fire Department, and Lynn and friends at the Doghouse Saloon. Your support helps us do great things. There are no losers. Thank you all.

Carl Williams Westwood Elks

Horváth makes run for mayor (or council)

To the editor:

THE HILLSDALE Republican Committee has decided not to support me for re-election for another term as your council representative; evidently, I upset them when I said that my loyalty is to the people who elected me and not to the RINO (Republican in name only) party. It was stated that“You are not a politician”and by inference that I have been too disruptive by not going along with the council majority, and especially not being in accord with their ideology that favors consistently taxing the residents so that they become inured to paying ever-increasing taxes.

I have steadily voted against unneeded, excessive, and costly projects that will inflate our already untenably high taxes. Along with the mayor, I am a lone councilman advocating for stable taxes whenever possible and more public input on extravagant projects like having two community centers.

I have always spoken up for our altruistic mayor when a vindictive, autocratic, and spiteful council majority tried to silence him by changing long-standing bylaws to specifically deprive him of his ex-officio status on committees, thereby cutting him out of the loop on their meeting times and agendas. Even though the mayor does not have a vote except in a tie, they removed him from committees to effectively prevent him from having input and oversight and, more importantly, to prevent him from informing the public about their costly projects

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

Ballet Arts returns to stage for Spring Gala 2023

On the heels of an enormously successful performance of “The Nutcracker,” Ballet Arts and Adelphi Orchestra are teaming up once again to bring a live production of “Peter and the Wolf” to the stage.

This cherished musical masterpiece, composed by Sergei Prokofiev in 1936, tells the story of a young boy named Peter and his adventures with a cast of animal characters, all represented by different instruments.

The 30-minute production will feature talented dancers, including a live orchestra and a narrator to guide the audience through the story.

The showʼs co-directors, Marilyn Westlake-Nicols and Jane Silane, have been hard at work for months preparing for the performance. “We want to bring this classic tale to life in a way that is both

entertaining and educational for audiences of all ages,” they say.

“Our goal is to create an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on everyone who attends.” Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the show, as “Peter and the Wolf” is an excellent introduction to classical music and ballet for young audiences.

The role of Peter will be played by Jack Silane (River Edge), the part of the Wolf will be played by Isabella Lama (Oradell), and both Philip DeRosa and Dr. Fred Fakharzadeh will share the role of the grandfather.

After “Peter and the Wolf,” the second act of the gala features excerpts from “Swan Lake,”

the Narrator is Jeffrey Wilson, Director of Music, FCC Park Ridge and RDHS.

There will also be originally choreographed pieces in the dance styles of modern, contemporary, and tap. In addition, Sari Kaito and Kathleen Hahn will perform the classical variations that they showcased at the Youth America Grand Prix Semi-Finals.

and New Jersey area and is proud of its students who attend prestigious summer intensive programs including American Ballet Theaterʼs Summer Intensive (Kathleen Hahn), Kaatsbaan Ballet Intensive (Jack Silane and Tessa Klein), and NJ Ballet Summer Intensive (Madeleine Krieger).

Adelphi Orchestra is a professional, non-profit orchestra performing symphonic, chamber, operatic, and dance concerts. It is northern New Jerseyʼs longest continuously performing group.

“Giselle,” “La Fille Mal Gardee,” “Cinderella,” and “The Sleeping Beauty.”

Donʼt miss this opportunity to revel in live dance and music with two of the leading arts organizations in our community. Ballet Arts is a premiere dance school serving the New York

The Spring Gala runs Saturday, May 6 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 7 at 1 p.m. at River Dell High School, 55 Pyle St., Oradell. For tickets visit BalletArtsNJ.com. For more information call (201) 9707690.

Peter lifts Birdie. The Spring Gala runs Saturday,May 6 at 7 p.m.and Sunday,May 7 at 1 p.m.at River Dell High School. Julia Chang Photography.

ANNUALCHURCH PLANTSALE MAY 13

First Congregational, United Church of Christ at 131 Pascack Road in Park Ridge has its annual plant sale behind the church on Saturday, May 13. There will be a

large selection of organic vegetable and herb plants at reasonable prices. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call (201) 391-5800 or visit congregationalchurch.net

Club News?

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

Council intros $1.83M improvements

Borough Council introduced two ordinances April 18 that appropriated $1.83 million for bonds and capital improvements that will help fund local roadway improvements and a new dump truck for the public works department.

A public hearing on both ordinances will be held at the May 2 council meeting.

The introduced bond ordinance, 1673-23, appropriated $1,459,500 for various improvements including $250,000 for installation of lighting at Benkovic Field; $590,000 for the 2023 road resurfacing program; $350,000 for improvements to the Randolph Avenue sanitary sewer pump station; and $269,500 for a dump truck for DPW,

A CORRECTION

with plow and salter.

Of the $1,459,500 appropriated, the ordinance notes $998,028 will come from bonds and notes; $334,337 will come from grants; $75,000 will come from the Borough Trust Fund; and $52,125 will come from the aggregate downpayment.

The introduced capital ordinance, 1674-23, appropriated $374,914 for “various public improvements and acquisitions” including: undertaking (unspecified) improvements to public buildings and sidewalks; acquisition of an SUV and firearms for the police department; acquisition of communications equipment for the DPW; acquisition of personal protective

equipment (PPE) for the Fire Department and Volunteer Ambulance Corps; acquisition of a trunk radio system for the Fire Department; and acquisition of a trunk radio system for the Volunteer Ambulance Corps. The ordinance notes that all appropriated funds will come from a federal grant and the capital improvement fund. It notes a grant of $153,514 was anticipated from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Assistance To FIrefighters program to go toward payment of the Fire Department trunk radio system. The remaining $221,400 appropriation was to come from the local capital improvement fund.

— Michael Olohan

Local families on hosting French friends

OURFRONT-PAGE feature April 24, “ʻAn eloquent mixtureʼ: WRHS families host teens, chaperones from France” by John Snyder was very well received. Mostly: We inadvertently merged quotes kindly offered by two host families:the Eagars, who went uncredited, and the Chevriers.

Chagrined doesnʼt begin to describe it. We deeply apologize to all concerned. The proper set of quotes — from all three families, for good measure — is as follows:

• The Eagar family: “We had a great time hosting a sweet French student. Our daughter enjoyed taking her out to eat, shop, and hang out with friends. It was lovely because her friends also had French students staying with them so they could all hang out together. They had a lot of fun! It also gave our daughter an opportunity to practice communicating in French which for my husband and I was beautiful to hear! Thank you to all who made this experience possible!”

• The Chevrier family:

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

“As for our specific experiences, we found that: “Communication required creativity. While we were able to

Families in Westwood and the Township of Washington hosted students and chaperones from France in March.Among their adventures they visited Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Photo via Jeff Welfel

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

“Teenagers are still teenagers, regardless of where they live. They need down time and alone time. They like to spend time having fun with their friends. And they like their cell phones!”

• The Ferreira family:

“As a family of five, with a new baby, we were a little nervous about hosting Shawn for a week. I can only say that the whole experience was extremely pleasant and rewarding for all of us!

“By opening our doors, we were able to briefly experience a new culture, and in turn, also share ours. Together we were an eloquent mixture of languages, cultures, ethnicities and experiences.

“We appreciate the courage it takes to join a new family of strangers, even briefly, and have every day be as if they were always there.

“On the last day, we asked our exchange student, Shawn, if he could leave us a message.”

—Pascack Press

Ramadan: Dinner raises funds

FROM PAGE 4

survivor — and big credit is due Township of Washington booster Thomas Sears.

Saba Khan told Pascack Press, “We raised $4,200 for the adaptive wheelchair. As everyone g athered, we mentioned we hadnʼt met our goal yet — and Councilman Sears came up to me and said he would cover the remaining cost of the adaptive wheelchair. That was an amazing moment for all of us.”

Khan, who stood with pride with her son, Zaki, and many, many others at the townshipʼs inaugural Ramadan Crescent Lighting Ceremony this year — she had proposed it to the governing body — said the dinner also was graced by an Imam (a Muslim priest) Sheikh Walid, also of the Township of Washington.

“He explained to everyone the significance of Ramadan and after everyone that was fasting gathered to pray. It was beautiful to see our community come together and break bread. We had a feast of multicultural food,” said Khan.

She said, “Many guests sent me messages the next day about how informative this event was and the best part was that they met someone new in the community that theyʼre looking forward to building friendships with.”

All proceeds from the dinner, Searsʼunspecified contribution and all, go to Graceʼs Gold Ribbon Gang for the adaptive stroller Kids were asked to bring a new unwrapped toy to be donated to Columbia Presbyterianʼs Pediatric Oncology Unit.

At the Ramadan Crescent Moon Lighting Ceremony, Khan told Pascack Press, “Ramadan is about giving back, bringing community together. Itʼs a perfect way to share our culture with our community.”

Skuches is president of Graceʼs Gold Ribbon 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.

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. Grace truly loved her brother and sister, Minnie Mouse, ice cream and especially Hersheyʼs chocolate kisses.”

Jennifer and Kenneth Skuches, says the site, continue to honor Grace every day in the good works they do in her name. “They are committed to telling the world about Grace and that kids get cancer too.”

Dinner, thanks for ex-fire chief Thomas Lepore

T he Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department held its awards dinner honoring Park Ridge exchief Thomas J. Lepore last week.

As Mayor Keith Misciagna told residents April 21, “Tom moved to Park Ridge in 2003 with

his wife, Lori, and shortly thereafter joined the Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department. During his time as chief, he dealt with the trying logistics of keeping a healthy roster of trained volunteers during an especially difficult time with

events, sports engagements, and volunteerism.

Misciagna said Lepore “has steadfastly and diligently served the citizens of the Borough of Park Ridge in various positions, during which time his dedication has never wavered and was always present in his vigilance, to do whatever it takes to keep us safe and aid the operations of the Borough.”

2014–2016, Wm. I. Diedtrich Jr. 2012–2013, Peter Mauro 2009–2011, Robert Ludwig

2006–2008, Thomas Derienzo Jr.

2004–2005, Kenneth Steele 2001–2003, Wm. I. Diedtrich Sr. January 1999, Peter Mauro 1999–2000, Wm. Hahn 1997–1998, James Strabone

1995–1996, Alan Musicant

1992–1994, Wm. Hahn

the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Misciagna said, “At the same time, he and his team participated in training and educational activities, organizational activities and responded to calls and stood ready to risk their own lives and safety to aid their fellow citizens.”

In addition to Leporeʼs service as a volunteer fireman, he was a fire inspector within the Borough of Park Ridge and has been employed by the Park Ridge schools. He and his wife raised their two sons, Conor and Jack, in Park Ridge, and spent the past 20 years involved in community

He added, “I have always said we have the best volunteers in the county, and it is because they are people like Tom, who care about our community immensely and are always willing to go that extra mile and never seek recognition.”

His honor said, “I consider Tom a friend and appreciate the many dedicated hours and services he has provided for our Borough, thank you!”

(See also “Hometown Heroes include several from Pascack Valley,” Pascack Press , Dec. 15, 2020.)

The The Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department lists its roster of chiefs on its website:

2023–Current, Mark Durst 2020–2022, Thomas Lepore 2017–2019, Thomas Derienzo, Jr.

1990–1991, James Babcock Sr.

1988–1989, Joseph Mauro Jr.

1986–1987, Wm. I. Diedtrich Sr.

1983–1985, Robert A. Ludwig

1980–1982, Wm. Pierano

1979, John Hansen

1976–1978, Wm. D. Diedtrich

1971–1975, Wm. Pierano

1969–1970, John Doyle(with Wm. Pierano)

1968, John Doyle

1961–1967, Louis Redard

1958–1960, Robert (Rocky) Pilger

1957, August Lagno

1956, Chester Cable Sr.

1952–1955, Robert Stein

1946–1951, Theodore Huff Sr.

1944–1945, John Wirth

1941–1943, Theodore Huff Sr.

1940, Francis Emerick

1932–1939, R. Scharrenberg

1931, Edward Mader

1930–1931, F. English (Out 6/31)

1929, Edward C. Mader

1928, Henry Reichrath

1927, Norman Stalter

1925–1926, Phineas Leach

1924, George F. Granger

1921–1923, R. Hall

1918–1920, George Granger

1914–1918, Robin A.Bullock (Out 6/18)

Volunteers needed Looking to become more involved in our community by helping your neighbors during their time of need? “The Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department has been devotedly responding to our community for the last 125 years, helping our residents and neighbors in their time of need by doing whatever it takes to keep us safe, saving countless lives and property. If you are interested in joining, stop by the Park Ridge Fire Headquarters before their weekly drills on any Thursday night at 7:30 and speak to Chief Mark Durst.”

Kohlmeier at 25 years with Wells Fargo Advisors

Eric Kohlmeier, a Senior F inancial Advisor, Managing D irector-Investments, with the Park Ridge branch of Wells Fargo Advisors, is celebrating his 25th year of service with the company.

“Serving the needs of my clients and helping them achieve their financial goals has remained the top priority throughout my career in the financial services industry,” said Kohlmeier. “I am honored to continue this service and look forward to many more

PARK RIDGE

years.”

Kohlmeier has been named to the 2023 Forbes B est-In-State Wealth Advisors Ranking for New Jersey. This annual list recognizes advisors as among the top in America. It is an honor to be named to this ranking.

The Forbes Best-in-State

Wealth Advisors rating algorithm is based on the previous yearʼs industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other c riteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.

Kohlmeier has served on the

Church’s annual plant sale May 13

First Congregational, United Church of Christ at 131 Pascack Road in Park Ridge is having its annual plant sale behind the church on Saturday, May 13. There will be a large selection of organic vegetable and herb plants at reasonable prices. The hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. so come early for the best selection.

The Just World Team will also be selling packets of wildflowers to help in restoring Godʼs earth.

If you lack space to garden, the churchʼs Community Garden is the way to go! Raised beds are available to purchase for $25 each for one growing season so you can try out organically growing your own produce. Water is provided as is an area for composting. The fee helps to pay for water usage and maintenance of the garden.

Many of the gardeners donate some of their harvest to the TriBoro Food Pantry.

For more information call the church at (201) 391-5800 or visit congregationalchurch.net

13. Carol Kobbe photo

boards of the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation and the Lower Hudson Valley Challenger Center. He is also a volunteer with the R ockland County Sheriffʼs Department. He also supports the

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

50+CLUBSPEAKERON SENIORFRAUD

The Hillsdale 50+ Club says that at its meeting of Thursday, May 11, a representative from Columbia Bank in Westwood will shar information on preventing senior fraud. All are invited. 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.

What does your garden grow? First Congregational, United Church of Christ at 131 Pascack Road in Park Ridge is having its annual plant sale behind the church on Saturday, May

KOHLMEIER

Patients trust the Vein Center of Oradell

There are vein specialists, and there are vascular surgeons. Luckily for his patients, James W. Geuder, M.D., is both. Dr. Geuder is a boardcertified vascular surgeon specializing in varicose veins, venous disorders, spider vein treatment, and circulation disorders. He has practiced vascular surgery in Bergen County for 25 years.

Dr. Geuder is an attending surgeon at Hackensack University Medical Center and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has been consistently selected as a “Top Doctor” by Castle Connolly, a “Best Doctor” by New York Magazine, and a Patients Choice and Most Compassionate Doctor by PatientsChoice.com.

When you call the Vein Center of Oradell, a professional will always answer your call and be happy to assist you. We work hard to provide a comfortable, friendly environment at the Vein Center of Oradell. We have an ICAVLapproved vascular lab that allows for immediate testing with an accu-

rate diagnosis.

An important role as your doctor is to educate you about your condition and treatment options. It is important to understand what is wrong and what should be done.

Most vein procedures can be performed in the office and with local anesthesia, if necessary. Dr. Geuder also treats patients at Hackensack University Medical Center and outpatient surgery centers if anesthesia or more involved proce-

Dr.Geuder

dures are necessary.

“Many people tolerate varicose veins in spite of their discomfort and appearance,” said Dr. Geuder. “The thought of vein stripping, anesthesia and recovery may seem worse than the problem. Thanks to modern, non-invasive treatments – such as laser or VNUS closure – that is no

longer the case. Patients have their treatments in the office under local anesthesia and return to normal activity afterward. It is very gratifying to see patientsʼsymptoms and veins disappear after a minor office procedure.”

For more information on Dr. Geuder and the Vein Center of

Oradell, visit veincenteroforadell.com or call — we answer the phone! No recording.

Connect today Vein Center Of Oradell, 680 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 306, Oradell. (201) 262-VEIN (8346).

is a board-certified vascular surgeon specializing in varicose veins,venous disorders,spider vein treatment,and circulation disorders

Knitters and crocheters of all a ges are called to raise their needles and join the Westwood “Yarn Bomb Squad.” Instigating joy throughout the community, unexpected pop-ups of knitted color and creativity will be found in various locations in downtown Westwood this summer.

“Yarn bombing” has grown in popularity over the years as a guerilla art form known for beautifying forgotten, overlooked outdoor spaces with colorful, textured art that canʼt help but bring smiles and joy to those who come across its bright installations.

The Westwood “Yarn Bomb Squad” is looking to color the community with summer-themed knitting — from flowers, vines and leaves to fruit and veggies, from butterflies, bees and ladybugs to rainbows, tassels and pompoms — with the goal of unv eiling installations by the summer solstice on June 21.

Throughout May, volunteers can connect and create pieces together at the Westwood Free Public Library each Tuesday at 7 p.m. All skills and ages are welcomed. Whether made at the library, church groups, troop meetings, art class, or home, all

donated creations can be dropped off at the Westwood Free Public Library circulation desk from May 1 to June 1.

“I am so inspired by the creativity and talent within our community, and even more so, by the shared desire of so many to spread joy in big and simple ways,” said Heather OʼHara, joy instigator at Westwood Arts Hub. “This summer, weʼre excited to celebrate Westwood with a multigenerational communal effort, and together transform the unexpected or overlooked into something soft, colorful and bright. And as visitors come to Westwood for our many summer events and activities, our hope is the joy we spark here can spread to other communities throughout Bergen County.”

Follow @celebratewestwood on socials or visit celebratewestwood.org/yarn-bombing for more information.

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, May 1 at 1 p.m.: and 3 p.m.: Knitters Circle for adults. Registration required. At 3:30 p.m.: Afternoon Storytime, ages 2–5. Registration recommended.

• Tuesday, May 2 at 11 a.m.: Baby and Me, birth to 2. At 3:30 p.m.: Switch Club, grades 2–4. Registration required for each child per date.

•Wednesday, May 3 at 10 a.m.: Passport Outreach Services

• Thursday, May 4 at 4:30 p.m.: Girl Scouts

• Saturday, May 6 at 1 p.m.: Family Yoga, grades 1–6.

H HIILLLLSSDDAALLE E

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

• Monday, May 1, at 9 a.m.: Access for All Art Show.

• Tuesday, May 2, at 1 p.m.: MahJong At 6:30 p.m.: Access for All 3rd Annual Art Show and Reception

• Wednesday, May 3, at 11 a.m.: Adult Painting Class.At 2 p.m.: Hillsdale Matinee, “A Man Called Otto.” At 7:30 p.m.: HFPL Foundation

• Thursday, May 4, at noon: Living with Alzheimerʼs for Caregivers part 1. Registration required.

• Friday, May 5, at 10:30 a.m.: Chair Yoga. Registration recommended.

M MOONNTTVVAALLE E

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

•

• Monday, May 1 at 7 p.m.: Virtual Guided Meditation. Registration required .

• Thursday, May 4 at 1:30 p.m: Little Learners Pre-School Fun. Registration required.

• Thursday, May 4 at 7:00 p.m: Adapting Small Farm Methods to a Backyard Garden. Registration required.

• Friday, May 5 at 10:30 a.m.: Babies in the ʻBrary! Registration required.

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

•Monday, May 1 at 11:30 a.m.: Yoga.

• Tuesday, May 2 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee.

• Wednesday, May 3 at 1 p.m.: Movie Matinee. Registration required.

• Thursday, May 4 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee.

• Friday, May 5 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Crafts with Miss Renee. At 10:30 a.m.: Mahjong.

• Saturday, May 6 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Storytime with Miss Eileen R

•Monday, May 1 at 10 a.m.: Pre-K Story Time: Stories, songs and coloring for the 2–5 set. Registration required.

• Tuesday, May 2 at 10:30 a.m.: Music with Miss Nita: For River Vale residents 6 months to 4 years. Registration

FROM PAGE 16

and salary raises., Their malicious intentions made it burdensome for competent professionals to do their jobs well and ultimately forced several of them to resign out of frustration.

One of the council members even said if you can no longer afford to live in Hillsdale, move!

And move you might, along with the 520+ households that have recently moved. Especially in light of the councilʼs desire to continue unnecessary spending that will drive up your property taxes.

To insult residents further, the council majority is about to increase their own salaries by 50%, making them the highest-paid elected body in the Pascack Valley. This is the same standing council whose election motto was “professionalism while promising to control tax increases.”

And yet, they have consistently raised your taxes without remorse—to the detriment of longtime residents, seniors, people on fixed incomes, and Hillsdale at large.

Missing the limelight, a past councilman who acted in lockstep with the council majority for years and who declined to pursue and continue his unchallenged seat for 2023 has decided to run for mayor. This is the same man who voted for bylaw changes to suppress the mayorʼs council and oversight, now he has the temerity to run for mayor with the lukewarm support of the Republican Committee.

As you all may be aware by now, our excellent mayor, the Honorable John Ruocco, will not be seeking re-election for another term but instead is vying for one of the two open council positions where he will have an unrestricted voice and vote and where he can continue to advocate for the good of Hillsdale. Please vote for him!

There is a Hillsdale businessman running for my council seat, I do not know him, nor have I ever heard of him or his involvement with Hillsdale. Nevertheless, I compliment him for stepping up. However, if you know me and my familyʼs volunteering and extensive work on behalf of Hillsdale, you know what you are getting.

(My 33-year-long Hillsdale involvement and history is available upon request.) I would like to retain the honor of continuing to work for you as Hillsdaleʼs non partisan council representative or step up as mayor for the benefit of all the people of Hillsdale and not just the few special interest groups who presently control the council.

I seek Hillsdale Independentsʼ, Democratsʼand Republicansʼsupport for re-election as councilman or as mayor on June 6 Primary Election day and then again during the General Election on Nov. 7.

Since the Republican Committee has chosen to not support me due to what appears to be cronyism and spiteful prompting by the council majority, my name will not be pre-printed on any ballot. So, a bipartisan write-in is the only way in which to vote for me.

If you think I am worthy and have served you well, then please vote for me as a write-in candidate for

councilman or mayor in your mail in ballet or write-in at the live ballot box.

Zoltán Horváth Hillsdale On trans women in sports

To the editor:

IN THE 64 YEARS that I have been a member of the American Legion I have gone out of my way not to involve this organization in political controversy. However, I must comment on the recent federal legislation involving the amendment allowing the landmark decision known as Title IX that was passed over 50 years ago. This would prohibit programs designated for women from permitting a person who is male from participating in activities designated for females. The bill defines sex as based solely on reproductive biology and genetics at birth.

The sponsoring representative, Greg Steube, a Republican from Florida, highlighted the case of Emma Weyant, a resident of his district and a 2020 member of the U.S. Olympic swim team who finished second in the NCAA w freestyle championship last year. She was defeated by Lia Thomas who had competed for three years on the University Pennsylvania menʼs team before joining the womensʼteam. The integrity of womensʼ sports must be protected according to Steube. House speaker Kevin McCarthy said it was a great day for

School district votes yes on $29M

The Hillsdale Board of Education on April 24 approved its budget for the school year 2023–2024 initially approved at the March 13 meeting.

• Current General Expense (Fund 11) $27,441,024.

•Capital Outlay (Fund 12) $677,541.

•TOTAL GENERAL FUND $28,118,565.

• Special Revenue (Fund 20) $482,994.

Debt Service (Fund 40) $372,300.

• Total expenditures/appropriations: $28,973,859.

A General Fund tax levy of $23,622,327 was approved to support current general expense for the 2023–2024 school year and, the

debt service tax levy of $372,300 is approved to support debt service for the 2023–2024 school year budget.

The pre-budget year adjusted tax levy, inclusive of the weighted increase for enrollment, in the

America and all women involved in sports. Meanwhile, Democrats responded that every child regardless of gender identity deserves the opportunity to participate on a team and preventing any one from doing so sends the wrong message. Representative Pramila Jayapal, D., Seattle, who has a transgender daughter, said Republicans were cruelly

scapegoating trans gender children in an effort to score political points. She said three quarters of transgender students reported having experienced discrimination and or harassment at school and some may have considered suicide.

Rep. Marc Pocan, D., Wisconsin, said people in the U.S. may

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

amount of $277,876, was appro to offset costs specifically as it relates to out-of-district tuition, related services, and facility maintenance for the 2023–2024 school year budget.

10% OFF 10% OFF 10% OFF 10% OFF 10% OFF PROFESSIONALS

Grow:

FROM PAGE 1

Chair Gail Fair. Participating students included Raphaela Cárdenas of Clifton; Keira Footer and Natalie Yoo of Englewood Cliffs; Tristan Fowler of Upper Nyack, New York; Katelyn Freeburn of Mahwah; Nora Gianantonio, Ashley Miskovitz, Alexandra Nicholas, and Ava Tripodi of Emerson; Kate Hynes of Park Ridge; Annabelle Hur of Norwood; Alexis Jacob of Tappan, New

York; Anna Jang of Tenafly; Katerina Karlis of Cresskill; Leah Keller of New Milford; Caroline Ko of Hoboken; Kate Langan of Haworth; Camila Latinsky-Ortiz of Englewood; Gigi Ochs of Fair Lawn; Sophia Rigoli of Franklin Lakes; Sienna Speed of Ridgewood; Kira Sullivan of Teaneck; Alexandra Valdez of Oakland; and Graicen Van Blarcom Deluise of Glen Rock.

“Their major was critical thinking and their minor was public speaking,” Mrs. Schneberger said.

“Some highlights were a special presentation by a panel of Rhodes Scholars that included information about applying for grants and advanced degrees, punting on the Thames, a trip to Blenheim Palace, a nighttime ghost tour, visits to the Ashmolean Museum and the Pitt Rivers Museum, a tour of the Bodleian Library, and a poetry walk through Magdalen College.”

She said, “We also attended Easter Mass at Christ Church cathedral and toured the sites where Harry Potter was filmed and Alice and Wonderland was conceived, along with sites associated with famous writers from Oxford such as Tolkein and C.S. Lewis.”

Schnebergerʼs curriculum incorporates growth mindset concepts and meshes with the Academyʼs philosophy of transforming individuals through education. Stu-

dents focus on deep, philosophical thoughts in one of the most prestigious universities in the world, and explore another culture while learning more about themselves and the world. Students learn for the sake of learning. (No grades are awarded.)

As they dig into their crosscurricular studies, Angels become more careful consumers of information, think critically and analytically, and become empowered to speak confidently about their ideas with support from texts and established philosophical systems. Participants return home with a greater willingness to embrace challenges, and engage in discussions with increased confidence.

Students participated in Socratic Seminars, focusing on how epistemic injustice relates to social power.

“Some of the key skills they learned were how toconstruct arguments which are valid in structure, but also sound in content to the fullness of their capacities without holding others liable for the limitations of their capacities,” Schneberger said. “Many of the argumentsconstructed were syllogistic,

afterthe Socratic method. They also created a manifesto for critical thinking as a class project.”

Instructors were Matthew Bradley and Joseph Ward, both of whom are completing their doctoral studies at Oxford. Each Angel accrued 17.5 class hours in critical thinking, and eight hours in public speaking.

Ava Tripodi, a junior from Emerson, said this program allowed her to become a more well-rounded individual while she experienced the college environment.

“Some key messagesI brought back from Oxford were the useful techniqueswe learned in criticalthinking to establish a sound and valid argument and the confidence necessary to performa memorable public speech,” Tripodi said.

The Angels also enjoyed taking on challenges beyond academics, particularly punting on the Thames.

Tristan Fowler, who is also a member of the Class of 2024, said “My favorite memory from the Oxford trip is definitely the afternoon we spent punting. Punting is a

type of boating in England where you use a long metal rod to push the boat along the canal by sinking it into the ground and pulling. We quickly learned that the technique was much moredifficult than it seemed.”

Fowler added, “We learned so much from our trip, both from our lessons and our experiences in the city. In class, we learned how to form a strong argument and how to convey messages through public speaking. We also learned the values ofindependence, resourcefulness, and time management during our adventures in the city.

“The knowledge and values we learned in Oxford will serve us for the rest of our lives. Our newly honed critical thinking and public speaking skills will aid us in school and our futurecareers. We will carry the lessons we learned while traveling and meeting new people through all of our future adventures.”

Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼschool in Bergen County

As they dig into their cross-curricular studies, Angels become more careful consumers of information, think critically and analytically, and become empowered to speak confidently about their ideas.

Emerson resident Ava Tripodi , foreground, joins in ‘punting’ on the Thames.

FROM PAGE 25

not know any one who is a transgender individual and this bill does nothing but create fear for politicians who support it. He said the bill does not address the inequities in resources dedicated for both menʼs and womenʼs sports. He highlighted the stance taken by Governor Spencer Cox of Utah who vetoed such a bill banning transgender students. He struggled to understand the science that is conflicting; when in doubt he stated that he always tried to err on the side of mercy and compassion.

I understand the dilemma of some trans players competing in high school sports; however, if a 200 pound male competes against a female who might be only 125 pounds I donʼt know how any one cannot see that the young girl would be at a definite disadvantage.

In the case of an American Legion post who might have members with transgender relatives competing against girls who are at a disadvantage I would like to think that the members would support the young ladies who are participating.

Lastly, I recall that over the past 20 years young women have served in the armed forces of the United States and I believe they are again being discriminated against by these left wing politicians. Some serve in combat units and deserve the same consideration as their male counterparts. I have been a member of several veteransʼorganizations and this criticism by liberal politicians is hypocritical.

Dick Bozzone Park Ridge

Editorʼs note: The Independent newspaper looked into this and found that statistics show little evidence that Thomas performed any differently to other women, and certainly isnʼt record-breaking. “Both the NCAA and the Olympics allow

trans women to compete in womenʼs events once they have been on HRT [hormone replacement therapy] for a certain length of

time, and as long as tests show their testosterone is below certain levels. There are different rules for trans men, because their pre-HRT per-

formance is similar to cis women and they tend to gain strength and muscle mass from HRT.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

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

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

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

This event is open to the public. Seating reservations may be made at bisrael.com or by calling the temple office at (201) 265-2272.

Israel is at 53 Palisade Ave.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

FROM PAGE 24 required. At 1 p.m.: Movie Matinee Book Club: Join us at the library for a movie. At 5 p.m.: Mah Jongg Club: Drop in.

• Wednesday, May 3 at 10 a.m.: Baby Time. At 10:30 a.m.: Meet and Play: Up to age 3 with parent or caregiver. Registration required. At 1:30 p.m.: Alphabet Story Time, ages 3–5. Registration required. At 4 p.m.: Childrenʼs Bingo: For River Vale residents in grades 1–5. Registration required. At 6 p.m.: Adult Craft: Fairy House Mini Terrarium: ages 18 and up. Registration required.

• Thursday, May 4 at 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga in-person; first come, first served. Doors open 15 minutes prior to scheduled class time. River Vale residents receive priority. At 4 p.m.: Star Wars Droid Factory: Grades K–5. Registration required.

• Friday, May 5 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with a Twist. Kids

yoga for ages 6 months to 4 years. Registration required. At 1 p.m.: Olive Oil 101 . Registration required.

T TOOWWNNSSHHIIP P O OF F

W WAASSHHIINNGGTTOON N

144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586

twpofwashingtonpl.org

• Weekly Story Times through May 19. Please register.

Tuesdays: Two Year Old Story Time at 10 a.m. Fridays: Infant through 2 at 10 a.m.

•Tuesday, May 2 at 5:30 p.m. Yoga open to all levels of practice. Bring your own yoga mat and any props you may need, such as blocks, straps, or bolster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in. At 6 p.m.: Vision Board Workshop: What are you looking to achieve for yourself? Whether youʼre looking to manifest or just set some goals and intentions for caring for yourself, join us and with Karen Foote from Rebalance Reiki in Hillsdale to put together a

personalized vision board that you can take home. Please register.

• Thursday, May 4: Chair Yoga at 11 a.m. and noon. May the 4th Star Wars Day at 3:45 p.m. Ages 5 and up decorate galaxy cupcakes, more. At 6 p.m.: Social Stitching. Drop in.

• Friday, May 5: Adult Coloring & Craft Group at 1 p.m. Refreshments served. At 3:45 p .m. LEGO Free Build f or kindergarten and up. “We provide the bricks, you provide the creativity.” Please register.

•Saturday, May 6: Free Comic Book Day (while supplies last). At 1 p.m.: Hand Lettering Workshop. Have you ever wanted to try hand lettering but didnʼt know where to start? Join Swetha Shenoy of The Paisley Corner. Learn the art of drawing letters and create your own hand-lettered artwork.

W WEESSTTWWOOOOD D 49 Park Ave.

(201) 664-0583

westwoodpubliclibrary.org

• Monday, May 1 at 7 p.m.: Garden Club (Upstairs Meeting Room). At 7 p.m.: LVPV ESL Class, beginner

• Tuesday, May 2 at 9 a.m.:

LVPV ESL Online Class , advanced. At 11 a.m or 7 p.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class, intermediate. At 7 p.m.: Knitting and Crocheting (Upstairs Meeting Room).

• Wednesday, May 3 at 10:30

a.m.: Peek-a-Book Story Time

Registration required.

• Thursday, May 4 at 9 a.m.:

LVPV ESL Online Class , advanced; registration required. At 11 a.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class; intermediate. At 5 p.m.: Gardening Time (outside).

• Friday, May 5 at 10:30 a.m.: Summer Series Music and Movement: Explorerʼs Playgroup (to age 5). At 11 a.m.: Knitting and Crocheting Club Registration required.

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP MEETS MAY 9

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

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

ADVERTISEYOURSERVICEINTHE SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS.

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

Westwood Woman’s Club scholarship

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

Washington, regardless of which high school they attend.

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

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

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

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

Spring rec classes and programs

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

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

Town Hall and at rivervalenj.org

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

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

• Fitness With Friends

Registration is open for indoor and

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

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

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

Report:

FROM PAGE 3

storm runoff that are not designed for 100-year storms are not included in a drainage area measurement.

Boswell said the drainage basin mapping produced by LIDAR data was mapped at onefoot contours, and much “more precise” than the U.S. Geologic Service Streamstats data, which was used by Emerson engineer Carol Hoernlein, and quoted by a resident, to dispute prior basin calculations used to determine the waterway was not regulated.

Boswell previously agreed with Michael Agnello of 667 Meisten St., who said the USGS Streamstats data put the drainage basin at 58.8 acres. However, Boswell then noted that the LIDAR data that Boswell reviewed showed that the basin was only 48.832 acres.

Agnello has questioned what happened to the 10 acresʼdifference between USGS Streamstats and the Najarian Associates and Boswell basin determinations. Boswell said the difference was due to the LIDAR dataʼs “more precise” one-foot contour elevations versus the 10-foot contour elevations used to calculate the USGS Streamstats basin data.

The prior determination of 48.2 acres was calculated in 2019 by Najarian Associates, Eatontown, which was disputed by Agnello. In January 2020, NJDEP, using Najarianʼs 48.2 acre calculation, declared the unnamed tributary behind his home as a non-regulated waterway under the stateʼs Flood Hazard Area Act rules.

Moreover, the 2020 NJDEP decision was based on a proposal from 660 Pascack Realty LLC for a 137-vehicle commuter parking lot on four of five lots at 660-682 Pascack Road, not a 17,100-squarefoot shopping plaza. In 2019, NJDEP had asked Bertin Engineering, the applicant engineer, to provide a “compelling public need” why they needed to construct a parking lot at 660-682 Pascack Road.

The reason was to “demonstrate that this location within the riparian zone is the only practicable location.” wrote an NJDEP environmental specialist then. It was not clear what “compelling need” was offered in response or why the parking lot was never built.

Boswell said on April 17 that the LIDAR data was independently reviewed by Boswell engineers who came up with the basin calcu-

lation that was below 50 acres. He said he was “very confident” in the drainage basin acreage calculation.

Hoernlein told us, “Itʼs a distraction if theyʼre excluding a particular area based on pipe capacity. An area that belonged to an existing development being excluded because of the (storm outlet) pipe capacity is weird. Iʼve never changed a drainage area because of a storm drainʼs pipe capacity.”

Hoernlein noted that the 2018 Flood Hazard Area Control Act Technical Manual, cited by Boswell in his review, did not appear to exclude stormwater pipes that may handle less than a 100year storm.

Pascack Press found the NJDEP FHACA Technical Manual

online and the section that Boswell quoted from. Another technical manual section defined how NJDEP defines a drainage area.

“Drainage area is defined in the (Flood Hazard Area Control Act) Rules as the “geographic area within which water, sediments and dissolved materials drain to a particular receiving waterbody or to a particular point along a receiving waterbody.” The term drainage area is generally synonymous with watershed in the sense that it describes the area of land from which a feature collects stormwater runoff,” notes the Technical Manual Flood Hazard Area Control Act Rules, N.J.A.C. 7:13.

“If a parcel is said to be located within the drainage area or

watershed of a particular stream, stormwater runoff from that parcel will eventually reach that stream either through overland flow (flow across the surface of the ground or in streams) or via stormwater pipes. Groundwater flow is not considered to be part of a featureʼs drainage area. Drainage area is measured in acres or square miles and is a good indication of the relative size of a feature and its potential to cause flood damage. As the drainage area of a water increases, it will receive and ultimately convey more runoff,” states p. 15 of the manual under Section 2.1.3, Determining Drainage Area.

The 347-page NJDEP 2018 technical manual is available at nj.gov/dep/opi/assets/fha-technical-

manual---1-12-2018.pdf

Neighbors to the tributary, which runs behind their Meisten Street homes and behind a 2.4acre property at 660–682 Pascack Road proposed for a neighborhood retail plaza, assert that the drainage basin calculations used were incorrect and that the stream should still be classified as a Category 1 or C1 waterway, and protected from runoff and development.

It was previously classified as a C1 tributary due to its significance as a water supply source to the reservoir.

(See “Follow the water on strip mall application,” Michael Olohan, Feb. 27, 2023.)

• We are a 12 month school, offering 5 day and 3 day programs.

•Hours of operation 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Breakfast and Lunch included.

•Age appropriate curriculum.

•State of the art security system.

•Fully enclosed age appropriate soft surface playground.

•Our staff are CPR and First Aid Certified.

AHA upper school open house May 2

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

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

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

The Academyʼs administration, faculty, and staff will provide an overview of Holy Angelsʼmission and culture, curriculum, co-curricular and extracurricular offerings, the admissions process, financial aid, and sum-

mer 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 dollarsʼworth of scholarships to renowned colleges and universities that include Yale. Now itʼs your turn. Be part of AHAʼs 143-year success story.

Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼschool in Bergen County. While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this prestigious school serves young women from many backgrounds.

AHAʼs current leaders continue to further the SSND mission to provide each student with the tools she needs to reach the fullness of her potential—spiritually, intellectually, socially, andphysically, by offering a first-rate education in a nurturing environment where equal importance is placed on academic excellence, character development, moral integrity, and service to others.

Get your beach bod back at WW Rec

Residents and neighbors age 55 and up looking to get their beach body back need to look no further than Westwood Recreationʼs ForeverYoung Yoga, Chair Yoga and Tai-Chi classes.

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.

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 age 55-plus Westwood residents and $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.

More on leaf blowers — a

than airplanes. (Letters, April 24, 2023.)

Further, though his suggestion electric blowers replace gasoline powered ones is excellent, I believe that the argument that gasoline blowers are more efficient will prevail.

I suggest a compromise: that blowers be prohibited May 1 to Oct. 1. Their primary use is removal of leaves, and leaves are few during the late spring and summer.

Laird Coates Englewood Cliffs

ForeverYoung tai-chi classes run Tuesdays at 8 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. Itʼs free for Westwood residents; the non-resident fee is $30 per month.

To register, visit the Westwood Community Center office at 55 Jefferson Ave. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (201) 664-7882 for more information.

Tori Karach leads Westwood Recreation ForeverYoung Yoga, Chair Yoga and Adult yoga classes at the Westwood Community Center and in Veterans Park when weather permits. Westwood Recreation photo

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Let’s work together against Alzheimer’s

From 1999 to 2019, the U.S. mortality rate from Alzheimerʼs disease (AD) in the overall population increased 88%. Since it is such a big problem, scientists and researchers are always look-

ing for causes and ways to prevent Alzheimerʼs disease and dementia from occurring.

One study found that the risk of being diagnosed with dementia after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) was four to six times higher when compared with individuals with who did not sustain a TBI. The development of dementia, with impaired executive function, an increased risk of falling, and reduced cognitive func-

tion was significantly associated and observed more than 30 years after their TBI.

There are usually early clues or signs that the brain is not working properly and these signs will help you realize if it is time for a neurological check-up. Examples of early signs include complaining of brain fog, trouble with focus, low energy, headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances, poor memory, stomach problems, decreased motivation, depression, or anxiety.

One environmental factor that can have a positive effect on the brain is a healthy diet or having the proper nutritional program. There has been research in support of taking neuroprotective nutrients because it can alter gene expression and have a positive effect on health and prevention of neurodegenerative disorders. What this means is that by altering your diet, you can help prevent dysfunction of the brain and nervous system.

A factor to consider after a head injury is vitamin D deficiency. The possibility of developing Alzheimerʼs disease may be increased in patients with decreased levels of vitamin D. Therefore, if you have had a concussion or traumatic brain injury, it is important to analyze blood work and vitamin D

levels. It is best to keep your vitamin D levels at least 35 ng/mL and above. One way is to go outside from noon to 2 p.m. to get it from the sun. Another way is to take supplements, but most supplements are full of impurities and contaminants, so be very careful.

Other top predispositions for dementia are obesity and use of statins to control cholesterol. If you have had a TBI and are overweight, have diabetes, and take statin drugs for high cholesterol, your chances of having dementia and Alzheimerʼs disease are greatly increased. That is why a ketogenic diet and lots of exercise can make a big difference in prevention of AD.

The best way to determine your risk of Alzheimerʼs disease is to do a complete one hour neurological evaluation, which includes a VNG to measure each area of the brain to see how it is functioning and what areas need the most help. This is normally $500 at my Emerson office, but if you respond by May 17, you can receive the entire test for only $21.

The next best test is called a qEEG which is a noninvasive test that measures your brain waves to determine any damaged areas. This test is also normally $500 and now you can receive this entire test for only $21 as well. The first seven

people that sign up will get three bonus gifts: a free one-hour oxygen chamber treatment, a quality vitamin D supplement, and my book “Boost Your Brain Power,” in addition to getting both tests, for only $42 (a total value of $1221). All you have to do is mention this article and schedule your two-hour appointment before May 17. Always remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Do not wait until your symptoms get worse and worse and the damage is harder to reverse. The time is now. Letʼs work together to improve your quality of life, your focus, and your mood.

Sign up for my live seminar on May 31 in River Edge from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on “Mastering Nutrition.” You can attend live, watch over Zoom, or get the recording so you can listen on your own time. It is normally $100, but for the first seven people that call, text, or email, you can attend for only $49. Please call (201) 2612150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to set up your initial evaluation as well as your seminar ticket.

Looking forward to helping you live the happiest and healthiest life possible.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

IS YOUR PORTFOLIO AS EFFICIENT AS IT COULD BE?

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 investment is considered to be.

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 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-value-weighted 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.

Editorʼs note: The following article is for informational purposes only.

ERIC KOHLMEIER

John ‘Jack’ V. LYDON

John (Jack) Vincent Lydon, 92, longtime resident of Montvale, passed away at home on April 13 after a period of declining health. Born on the Lydon family property on May 25, 1930, he resided on that property for his entire life, except for his two years of active service in the U.S Army. A Korean War veteran, he was honorably discharged as a lieutenant in 1956.

Jack was the son of the late John T. Lydon and Florence Hardy Lydon. He was predeceased by his wife, Ann Daly Lydon, after nearly 65 years of marriage. He is survived by four children: John F. Lydon and his partner Connie of Longmont, CO; Richard T. Lydon and his wife Carol of Fort Collins, Colo.; Sharon A. Powers and her husband, Stan, of Winnabow, N.C..; and Charles (Chuck) M. Lydon of Montvale. He also is survived by 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Jack is also survived by his longtime friend and companion, Ginny Pugliese of Suffern, N.Y

Jack was instilled with a very strong work ethic from an early age when he used to help his grandfather picking fruit in the family orchard and other chores. His early memories included transporting blood with his father to Lederle Laboratories during WWII.

After graduating from Park Ridge High School, he assisted his father delivering Railway Express packages and eventually expanded that business into the Lydon Trucking Company with seven trucks, 15 drivers and USPS mail contracts for most of Rockland County and beyond.

He also created a limousine business that served some of the large corporations in the area with service to the airports, as well as many of the weddings at Jerryʼs Villa in Montvale.

Jack was always proud of the strong bonds he made with his drivers and all those he worked with. Jack was someone you knew you could count on when the chips were down.

Jack, along with his wife, Ann, will always be remembered for the large family gatherings they hosted celebrating marriages, christen-

ings, holidays and sometimes for no other reason than to get the family together.

While his family was young, he enjoyed relaxing every summer at Ocean Beach, N.J. Later in life, he enjoyed camping trips around the country and especially in upstate New York.

An avid armchair sports enthusiast, he enjoyed watching golf and football. He was also fond of an occasional slot machine and a challenging jigsaw puzzle.

Jack was a 63-year member of the American Legion Post 153 in Park Ridge.

Jackʼs love of the ocean led him to spend much of his later years at the beach. He and Ann also owned a rental property in Long Beach Island and spent much of the off-season there.

After Jackʼs retirement in 1994, he and Ann enjoyed their winters at Vero Beach, Fla., and eventually spent most of their time there until Annʼs passing in 2016.

Sunrise would always find Jack walking the boardwalk, enjoying the wind, the water, and whatever the day was about to bring.

A celebration of Jackʼs life is being planned on a date yet to be determined. Arrangements by Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., Park Ridge, NJ, rsfhi.com.

Kathryn ‘Kay’ STARK

Kathryn (Kay) Stark,92, of Montvale,passed away peacefully at home onApril 20, 2023.She was an only child to Mary and Louis Drasco onMay 25, 1930in North Bergen.

Kathrynenjoyed helping others and served as a volunteer at Pascack Valley Hospital and for the American Cancer Society. She was also an active member in the Pascack Valley Womenʼs Club. She worked as a sales associate at B. Altman & Co. and had a long career at Ramapo Travel as a travel consultant.

She loved music, dancing, and traveling the world. But her passion was playing bridge with her friends, which she did for more than 50 years.

She was an avid New York Ranger fan and could be heard rooting for her team up and down the street. Kathrynmarried John Lee Stark in 1953. She is survived by their fivechildren,Katie Neuman (Doug), Mary Beth Moltzen (Peter), Debra Stark, Barbara

Goldman (Doug), Carter Lee Stark, 14 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren.

Visitation Monday, April 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, rsfhi.com. Mass 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 25 at Our Lady Mother of the Church, Woodcliff Lake. Interment in Ascension Cemetery, Airmont, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to the New Jersey Talking Book and Braille Center (app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/NewJerseyStateLibrary/me morialgiftortributeform.html) or the New York Rangers Garden of Dreams Charity Foundation (gardenofdreamsfoundation.org).

Mary T. HILL

Our precious mother, Mary Teresa Hill (née McCarthy), age 86, departed her loving family on April 21, 2023 surrounded by her three daughters, two brothers, niece, nephew and son-in-law.

She had the most loving and caring heart that exuded kindness.

Teresa was born and raised in Woodside, Queens by James and Mary McCarthy (née Regan), both of whom immigrated from County Cork and County Mayo. She was a first generation Irish-American who attended the Dominican Commercial Catholic High School.

She was accepted into the Katherine Gibbs Secretarial

School, where she began her career as an executive secretary working for International Distillers, Inc.

On June 15, 1968, she married the love of her life, Robert “Bobby” Hill, to whom she was wed for 14 years. During that time, they had three wonderful daughters, who were loved unconditionally. Unfortunately, their beautiful marriage was cut short when Bobby passed suddenly. Now faced with the challenges of being a single mother, she devoted her entire life to her family, who was most important to her.

Teresa was also dedicated to her career, during which time she spent a portion as manager at Geier Jewelers where she developed key relationships with her clientele. When Geier Jewelers closed, she switched gears and applied for a secretarial position for the Bergen County Sheriffʼs Office. During her tenure there, she was recognized for her hard working demeanor and dedication for which she received an award.

Throughout her career, Teresa developed many lifelong friendships that serve as a testament to her loyal and venerable nature.

Upon retiring from the Bergen County Sheriffʼs Office in May 2003, she segued into becoming a full time Grandma.

Teresa, above all, loved being with family and friends. She truly enjoyed the time spent creating memories with those closest to her. This included vacations, family gatherings, chatting on the phone and anything in between. In con-

junction with this, Teresa found great comfort in her faith through daily prayer for those in her thoughts.

Teresa was mother to Maureen Donohoe (Chris) of Wayne; Carolyn Hill (Ken Beitl) of Morristown; and Jeanne Marie Papaleo (Jason) of Mahwah.

Aside from her children, on whom she doted, she was an amazing grandmother to Christopher and Michael Donohoe, Samantha and Frankie Papaleo and Matthew Beitl.

Teresa is survived by her brothers James McCarthy of Woodside, N.Y. and William McCarthy (Margaret) of Huntington, N.Y. along with her niece, nephews, cousins and friends who absolutely adored her. She will be missed by all.

Services will be held at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood on Tuesday, April 25 from 3 to 8 p.m. Funeral mass at the Church of the Assumption, Emerson, on Wednesday, April 26.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Valley Hospice, Ridgewood, in Teresaʼs name.

Barbara HAMMOND

Barbara Hammond (née Schnell) passed away peacefully on April 5, 2023. She was the beloved wife of the late Arthur Hammond and the devoted mother of Laurie and AJ Hammond.

Barbara was a loving sister to

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WESTWOOD CEMETERY CO.

Obituary:

FROM PAGE 39

the late Alice Buck and Doris Matthes and is survived by her brother Robert Schnell and sister Jacqueline Norman.

In her later years, her five grandchildren were her passion and she is also survived by her greatgrandson Fox Tavares.

Born in Teaneck, she lived in Westwood for 61 years. Barbara worked as an office manager for

Silver Mason Supply Company. She was a member of Zion Lutheran church in Westwood.

The family will receive their relatives and friends on Monday, April 10 at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood from 4 to 7 p.m. A service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, April 11 at 11 a.m., followed by interment in Westwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital (stjude.org) in Barbaraʼs honor.

Richard ‘Ricky’ J. MARIANI

Richard James Mariani, 76, of River Vale, passed away on April 19, 2023 surrounded by his family. Richard, fondly known as Ricky, was bornto Eleanor and John Mariani, on Aug. 24, 1946 in Park Ridge.

He served our country as a member of the U.S. Army and was a member of the Teamsters Local 560 trucker union where he

WESTWOOD

worked for over 40 years. After he retired, he continued to serve the community as a crossing guard in Hillsdale. Ricky was the definition of a handyman — there wasnʼt anything he couldnʼt fix or build.

Ricky will always be known as a father, a devoted husband, a grandfather (Pa), a friend, a proud teamster, Grateful Dead fan, member of the Park Ridge American legion and veteran.

Ricky is survived by his two daughters, Tara and Stacy and his

brother Jack. He is also survived by his sons-in-law, Chris and Frank and his three grandchildren Jack, Colin and Ryan.

Previously departed loved ones include his loving wife, Vicky, and his brother Donald. Rickyʼs family asks that you raise a drink and share a story in his memory.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital (stjude.org) in Rickyʼs name.

Grand marshal candidates sought

The Westwood Veterans council, consisting of VFW Post 130, American Legion Post 206, and the Westwood Heritage society, is in search of Westwood residents who served honorably in our Armed Forces to be candi-

dates for grand marshal for the Memorial Day parade — if not for this year, then for future parades.

The council tells Pascack Press, “We are trying to compile this list to honor their service to our country by participating as

our grand marshal. Please if you are a Westwood resident, have served honorably, and youʼre interested please contact the Westwood American Legion at (201) 664-9734. Please leave a message.”

P Paassccaacck k P Prreesss s welcomes press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements and event photographs from all towns in the Pascack Valley Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

Sundial Garden Club is rosy May 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

PASCACK VALLEY

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

RIVER VALE

Men’s club donates to animal shelter

The Bergen County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center posted a huge thank you to the the venerable River Vale County Club Menʼs Club, April 25, “for their generous donation of food and blankets. Itʼs greatly appreciated!”

Opened in 1979, the Bergen County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center (BCAS), based in Teterboro, is responsible for animal control and related services for 49 towns in Bergen and Hudson counties.

For more information on BCAS visit co.bergen.nj.us/animal-shelter-adoption-center and facebook.com/BCAnimalShelter.

Donation received! Visit BCAS for photos of available and adopted pets as well as updates on events going on at the shelter. Via BCAS on Facebook.

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.

Club women learn lottery details

Several members of The Westwood Womanʼs Club attended the meeting of the Past Presidentsʼ Club of the Palisades District, which was held March 30 at the Westwood Womanʼs Clubhouse. The clubs are members of the New Jersey State Federation of Womenʼs Clubs.

The club tells Pascack Press, “The program ʻWhere the Money

Goes,ʼpresented by the New Jersey Lottery, provided insight into the New Jersey Lotteryʼs real mission: to improve the lives of countless Garden State residents.”

The club said the revenue generated by the New Jersey Lottery “goes to help support our stateʼs financial obligations for education and institutions.”

“Beginning in 2018, the Lot-

DIRECTORY DIRECTORY

teryʼs net proceeds are used to bolster New Jerseyʼs public employee pension system for teachers, police and fire personnel and other public employees in conformance through the Lottery Enterprise Contribution Act (Chapter 11 of the Public Laws of 2017),” the club relayed.

Members enjoyed receiving a lottery gift as well as door prizes after the presentation. For more information about the Womanʼs Club of Westwood call (201) 9161580.

MAY 11

The Emerson Senior Citizensʼnext monthly membership meeting is Thursday, May 11 at noon at the clubhouse, 20 Palisade Ave. Guest speaker is Superintendent of Schools Brian P. Gatens. Refreshments will be served.

SUBSTITUTE CUSTODIANS, River Vale Public Schools, $25/hr. Black Seal License and Public School experience preferred, Knowledge of plant operation and maintenance; cleaning methods and procedures. Visit WWW RIVERVALESCHOOLS COM to view individual posting. To apply: Email resume or district application to HR@RIVERVALESCHOOLS COM or mail to RVPS, Human Resources, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. AA/EOE

SUMMER CUSTODIANS. River Vale Public Schools. $15/hr.

Anticipated dates: July 1 –Sept. 8, 2023. Landscaping, painting, cleaning classrooms and equipment, moving furniture, etc. Visit www.rivervaleschools.com to view postings. To apply: Email resume by May 5, 2023 to HR@rivervaleschools.com or mail to RVPS, Human Resources, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. AA/EOE

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

Seamstress/dressmaker, F/Tor P/T, exp’d only, to alter couture gowns and fine ladies sportswear. Call (201) 664-3111.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D PEST CONTROL TECHNICIAN. PEST CONTROL HELPER. GREAT PAYAND BENEFITS. CALL201664-3933.

COMPANION CARE

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THE UPS STORE is now accepting applications. Join our team today! Email your resume to store1588@theupsstore.com.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

Live-in housekeeper, private room with full bath, light housekeeping. Call (201) 960-7707.

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

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

and must be able to work all shifts and alternate Saturdays. Approx. 10 hours per week. Background check required. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, resolve difficult or stressful customer service issues, provide information and other general assistance to the public. Endure moderate physical activity Requires walking for 4 hours per day, to handle objects of up to 25 lbs, work in all-weather elements. Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. EOE. Submit resume and cover letter to Carol Knubel, Parking Utility Administrator, at cknubel@westwoodnj.gov by May 5, 2023. The Borough reserves the right to interview candidates as applications are received.

1998 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck. 185,000 miles with 15k on new 350 v8 motor. $6,300. Hillsdale (201) 783-0353.

Two lawn mowers for sale:John Deere ($175) and Toro ($50). Call (201) 674-1470.

WashingtonTownship, lakefront community, all access. New kitchen, more, gorgeous! $1,500 covers all. 201-819-4780.

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D