Pascack Press 6.5.23

WESTWOOD

COUNTY, HISTORY SMILEON WINNING RENOVATION

Architect Brian Callahan lands county historic preservation award for 57 Jefferson Ave.

Congratulations to Westwood Architect Brian J. Callahan, AIA Callahan Architecture LLC, who was presented with a 2023 Bergen County Historic Preservation Award from the Bergen County Historic Preservation Advisory Board and Bergen County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs in the category Historic Preservation Project for work at 57 Jefferson Ave. on Thursday, May 4 at Valley Brook Golf Club.

The nomination was submitted by Lauren Letizia and Jackie Martin (former and current chairwomen) on behalf of the Westwood Historic Preservation Commission in March in recognition of Callahanʼs partnership with the Historic Preservation Commission and Westwood Planning Board to adhere to regulations of the Jefferson Avenue Historic District while being flexible to modern conditions.

According to the nomination, in 2017 the owner of 57 Jefferson

See COUNTY on page 26

INTERNATIONAL DAY DELIVERS INTERNATIONAL DAY DELIVERS

Montvaleʼs Memorial School revels in world cultures

WESTWOOD

ARTSINTHE PARK, SHOP THE HUB JUNE 10

Fourth year of Celebrate Westwood hosting musicians artists, artisans as part of its Arts on the Avenues program

Itʼs that time of year where music fills the air of downtown Westwood every Friday and Saturday night. Mark your calendars and make your dinner reservations: Al fresco dining and live, local musicians after a day shopping in the Hub of the Pascack Valley—What could be better!

INONEOFOUR last school features before the pandemic shutdown. we had the pleasure of running “World Comes to Montvale for International Day” (Feb. 3, 2020 Pascack Press).

At the time Johanny Kaplan

represented Brazil, Sabeen Iqbal represented Pakistan, Mariam Khan represented Pakistan, Julia Motta represented Hungary, Kristie Taylor represented Brazil, Zarin Alizade represented Pakistan, Josyane Harcher with Brianna Harcher and

Amelia Khan represented Brazil.

This year the Memorial School community celebrated annual International Day on May 25, delivering the tastes,

Continued on page 41

Celebrate Westwood is proud to present its fourth season of live music on the street corners of the central business district. The rebranded Music on the Avenues summer series (formerly Arts on the Avenues) features more than 35 performances across 14 weekends this summer, beginning with a special performance by Kyle Towey and his band at the Westwood Historic Bandstand on Friday, June 9 and ending with the highly anticipated return of WestwoodFest — a townday style celebration — on Saturday, Sept. 10.

The talented lineup includes eight local musicians: returning fan favorites Kyle Towey, Steffani Bette, Jon Lancaster, Jon Schmarak, See ARTS on page 38

Atlas of deliciousness: Scenes from Memorial School International Day, Thursday, May 25, by school mom Josyane Harcher

To the editor:

Memorial Day, Hillsdale.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

TODAYWEGATHER to commemorate the men and women who died while serving in active duty in the U.S. military. They served to protect us, to protect the ideals upon which our nation was founded and to preserve our way of life. In so doing, they made the ultimate sacrifice. So, it is altogether fitting that we who have benefitted by their deaths should revere the sacrifices that were made on our behalf over a span of 247 years.

The theme for this yearʼs commemoration is “Yes, Iʼm proud to be an American.” But what does that mean? Should I be prouder to be an American than my greatgrandfather was to be an Italian?

There is of course no demonstrable “right” answer, since most people have powerful emotional and patriotic ties to the land of their ancestry and would argue for their cause. But I believe that we,

the beneficiaries of what George Washington called the “great experiment for promoting human happiness,” have the better argument.

The people who immigrated to this land in the 17th and 18th centuries, some by choice, some unwillingly, had served under monarchs or tribal chiefs. In the colonies they continued to be subjects of a king until they rebelled because their rights as Englishmen were being violated. A new nation was born and a form of government that the world had not yet experienced was created. It was a federal democratic republic with three branches of government, each branch designed to prevent the other from becoming too powerful, a government that recognized the right of each state to govern itself, and with a “bill of rights” that guaranteed citizens protections from the government.

Our founding fathers relied upon the “Enlightenment” philosophers and their own tortured experience serving under King George and Parliament to secure for themselves and us justice, tranquility, safety, the com-

mon welfare and liberty.

The American form of government was indeed revolutionary. It was ahead of its time and in many ways, has been unmatched by any other nation. It was not perfect by modern standards, indeed not even by the standards of many at the time. It was a compromise of religious, moral, economic, and political values held at that time. The great moral question of slavery remained unanswered, to be decided almost 80 years later by a civil war that tore the nation apart and which echoed divisions and prejudices well into the 20th century

But I believe it laid the groundwork for the American psyche, and it was up to us, as Ben Franklin said, to keep our form of government working and intact. As the nation grew geographically and economically, the challenges became many, but Americans persevered and prospered. The so-called “American way of life” displayed eternal optimism and self-reliance which, when coupled with economic capitalism and abundant resources, made us the most powerful nation on Earth.

NOTE: Letter submission deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday for the following Monday’s paper. Publication not guaranteed, 500 word maximum. Subject to editing. Email to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

The insularity that Americans at first clung to gave way to waves of immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries that diversified our society and workforce, and contributed to a common understanding of the American experience. They saw a land of opportunity where they might secure for themselves peace and prosperity

These immigrants overcame discrimination & prejudice, and contributed to the concept of the American melting pot. While they never forgot where they came from, they immersed themselves into the America of their dreams. They may not have been born here, but they sure as hell knew why they had come here. They were thankful to be here, learned how to mix into the culture, and proudly raised their children as Americans.

Later, Americans would answer the call of the Old World, as Sir Winston Churchill would say, when it was threatened by

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

‘Yes,I’m proud to be an American’

Submitted remarks by Mayor John J. Ruocco, May 29, 2023,

Planning Board Inspection Projects

Via Mayor Michael Ghassali, May 28… Planning Board Inspection Projects

North Market Phase II – Building

4 (Valley Health), 400 Market St.

This application was approved at the Aug. 2, 2022, Planning Board meeting for a three-story 87,976-square foot retail and medical office building at the corner of De Piero Drive and Grand Avenue, with a future development pad site noted as Phase IIA in the northwest corner of the site. Site work began for the first building in the final phase of the North Market development, with building permits under review. Permits issued for footings and foundations. Building footings are under construction. Construction continues on site including paving and fire hydrant installation.

Cornerstone at Montvale - (Montvale Family Apartments – Summit Avenue)

The applicant continues site, foundation and utility work for the construction of a 25-unit development on Summit Avenue at the intersection with Craig Road. Permits issued for two buildings. Status is same.

Moksha/Valley View Subdivision –

87 & 89 Valley View Terrace

Work continues on the con-

struction of the two-homes, as well as retaining wall installation and site grading. Status is same. NSFD homes-permits issued. The applicant appeared before the Site Plan Review Committee due to the changes to the approved plans including revised water line layout, a meter pit and fire hydrant. The borough fire chief has a concern of the placement of the hydrant. The changes were approved. Work continues on the construction and the storm water system is complete and the gas line is connected to the main. The Applicant has provided revised plans for the water line, meter pit and fire hydrant and we are reviewing the documents. Construction is continuing for the two homes.

Parkland Estates – 91 Spring Valley Road (formerly Metropolitan Homes)

This application for the construction of four single-family homes at the end of Deep Wood Lane (off Stem Brook), and seven single-family homes on Spring Valley Road opposite Bear Brook Village. The borough has received grading permit applications for four new homes proposed to be located on Wedgehill Lane, a new road off of Spring Valley Road. The contractor is scheduled to meet with the Planning Board Site Plan Review Subcommittee to discuss their revised plans. The con-

tractor is grading the site for the proposed interior roadways. The applicant attended the SPR meeting on Dec. 6, 2022 to discuss the site plan changes for the individual lots provided on their grading plans. The changes were approved by the board.

A site plan review meeting was held on April 4, 2023 to discuss stormwater and wall changes to the approved plans. The stormwater changes were considered to be de minimus. The borough is awaiting documentation from the applicant for the wall changes. The wall was approved by the borough during a site plan review meeting on May 16, 2023.

Village Springs at Montvale (Toll Brothers) – 2 Paragon Dr.

The applicant has added additional landscaping along Paragon Drive and is looking to install landscaping on the islands at the intersection with Summit Avenue to further enhance the project. This project includes the construction of 80 townhouse units in 18 buildings. To date, the borough has issued 31 Certificates of Occupancy (COs). Status is same.

North Market/Triboro (former Mercedes property)

Building 1 (100 Market) is fully opened, with the majority of the apartments being rented and the majority of the retail spaces being rented. Building 2 (200

Market) is completed and is being marketed for office and retail space. Building 3 (300 Market) is completed and being marketed for rental apartments and retail tenants. Building 4 (400 Market) is under construction for the installa-

tion of a healthcare facility. For Phase 2 (Building 4), the steel frame for the building is under construction.

Alexa (Premier Development) –

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Railway historians meet June 9

PASCACK VALLEY

Bergen Rockland National Railway Historical Society hosts its monthly meeting on Friday, June 9 at 8 p.m. Meetings take place at the Closter Senior Center, 4 Lewis St., Closter

Individual members will present scenes from local and regional railroads and there will be a discussion of current railroad events and local railroad news with updates.

This monthʼs featured topic, presented by a Chapter member, is on local area commuter and freight railroads during the 1970s and 1980s with slides and videos.

Continued on page 29

All Aboard For Summer of ’66

Memory lane via the Hackensack and New York

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS PARKRIDGE

CAN YOU remember when Park Ridge looked like this? The photo above goes back to the summer of 1966, and the view looks down the tracks toward Park Avenue.

Of course the old cars (and bus!) are always great to see, but also take note of the logo on the

train. In both photos, the trains bear the combined “EL” symbol for “Erie Lackawanna.” The name of the rail line through the Pascack Valley has changed many times since the tracks were laid 150 years ago.

Chartered as the Hackensack and New York Railroad, this later became the New Jersey and New York Railroad, which was purchased by the Erie Railroad in 1896.

A 1960 merger created the Erie Lackawanna Railroad, which we see here. Since the 1980s, the line has belonged to NJ Transit.

Those who grew up around Park Ridge might recognize the brick building thatʼs partially obscured behind the train station. Itʼs the old Burroughs Corp., whose large factory stretched south along Broadway from Park Avenue. Its tall

R.R.

smokestack was an iconic part of the Park Ridge streetscape.

Formerly Mittag & Volger, the largest producer of typewriter ribbon and carbon paper in the world in the early 20th century, the business merged with the Burroughs Adding Machine Company in 1949.

After shutting down in the mid-1980s, the factory was razed — today its footprint is the site of a condominium complex.

The National Railway Historical Society runs a popular Railcamp as par t of its educational offerings.

Can you remember when Park Ridge looked like this? This photo dates to the summer of 1966, and the view looks toward Park Avenue.

Registration open for Safety Township, ages 5–6

Together we create a safer community. With this mission in mind, the Township of Washington Municipal Alliance and Township of Washington Police Department are pleased to present a educational and engaging program for Township children ages 5–6.

Safety Township is designed to teach awareness and accident prevention skills while introducing the children to their local first responders and community helpers.

Children will learn from the experts in a fun and interactive way.

Each week the children will be introduced to a new branch of the Township – EMS, Fire Department, Police Department, and Public Library.

Learning skills such as basic first aid, bike safety, safety in a public building, and fire safety the attendees will practice how to pre-

pare and react to emergencies and go home to share their lessons with family and friends. They will tour police vehicles, fire trucks, and ambulances; build a first aid kit; learn bike safety skills; and learn important lessons such as stranger danger.

At the end of each class kids will go home with an activity book pertaining to that days lesson that they can work on with their family to better personalize and reinforce their safety plans and actions.

Classes are on Saturdays, July 8, 15, 22, and 29, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Registration is required and is limited to Township residents. Registration opens June 5. Register online from the WTPD or Municipal Alliance Facebook pages, or library website, TwpofWashingtonPL.org or call (201) 664-4586.

Compensation: $700 per week for 3 - 6 weeks

Requirements: Provide temporary accomodation in a clean home; have breakfast food available 7 days per week and a sit-down dinner 3 nights per week. An appreciation of travel and other cultures is ideal.

These English-speaking guests work for a Big 4 accounting firm. They will be enrolled in an all-day training course in Westwood 5 days per week to enhance their English communication skills and learn about American culture. Their approximate ages run 25 - 35. They often spend their weekends exploring NYC and other cities.

This is an easy way to make money and have an enjoyable cultural experience. If interested in being a host, please email Kathleen Ann Whalen at kwhalen@mothertonguecoach.com.

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

Dr. Kevin Ma & Dr.

Dental Care for entire family.

Smile Makeover and Implants. Veneers, Whitening and Clear Aligners. We Welcome Kids & Adults. All Major Dental Insurances Accepted. No Insurance?

Voices rise over surplus as council OK’s $24 annual bump

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PARKRIDGE

The Borough Council approved a nearly zero increase municipal budget in early May by using more than $330,000 of municipal budget surplus funds to pay for most of the annual increases.

However, taxes will still increase an average of $24 annually due to an increase in the statemandated public library tax, said officials. Thanks to using the surplus, however, an average home-

owner will save the proposed $122 annual increase in the $17.3 million adopted budget.

The May 9 budget adoption meeting can be viewed by going to the borough website and clicking “Meeting Videos” under the Government menu.

Following a 45-minute budget presentation by Council President William Fenwick, interrupted by several shouting matches between Mayor Keith Misciagna and Fenwick over disputed budget savings and using surplus funds to reduce property taxes, the council voted 4-0 to adopt the amended budget and use surplus to reduce annual

property taxes.

Voting yes to adopt the amended budget were Gregory Hoffman, Bruce Goldsmith, John Cozzi and William Fenwick. Councilman Matt Capilli abstained and John Ferguson was absent.

Before passing the amended budget, the proposed annual increase for an average borough home of $474,000 was $122 in the introduced budget, but using surplus funds available, the tax increase was mostly eliminated.

The council approved using $330,000 from its surplus account of slightly over $1 million to reduce the municipal tax levy cost to zero. That leaves about $750,000 remaining currently in surplus, said Fenwick during his presentation.

Several officials argued over how much funding should remain in a budget surplus account, both for unanticipated local expenses and emergencies.

Some officials, including the

mayor, questioned lowering the surplus to $750,000 while the mayor questioned Fenwickʼs estimated cost savings that could help to gradually replenish the $330,000 taken from surplus.

However, state-mandated library taxes increased on the average home from $190 to $214 per year, an average increase of $24 per home, he said.

According to the amended budget approved, a municipal tax levy of $11,214,108 is to be raised by taxation, and $706,093 as a minimum Library Tax.

Miscaigna said the amended budget was passed with a lesser surplus, leaving approximately $750,000 in surplus.

“All Iʼll say is I hope that it doesn't affect us down the road,” said the mayor.

He said his vision was to “make hard cuts and get taxes under control and not dip into our surplus” which mirrors the advice he said he received from borough

finance professionals.

“Itʼs done and weʼll live with it and weʼll say a novena when you get home,” said the mayor following 4-0 vote.

After Fenwickʼs budget presentation, Fenwick was interrupted at several points by Mayor Keith Misciagna, who disagreed with Fenwick when he noted $100,000 would be saved by merging the administrator and clerk positions, which led to Julie Falkensternʼs termination earlier this year.

Fenwick said that there would be at least $330,000 in increased savings or revenue coming in next year, including $100,000 in savings from Falkensternʼs termination and not paying her administratorʼs salary and medical benefits.

However, Misciagna said he would not let Fenwick say that there were savings from Falkensternʼs termination but Fenwick insisted that there were. That led to several shouting matches between the two.

“Itʼs the truth,” replied Fenwick.

Responded Misciagna, “Iʼm not going to let you say it, youʼre incorrect,” as both shouted at each other until Misciagna stated, “Hold on a second, this is my meeting, youʼll stop. I get to chair the meeting. Now Iʼm asking you to stop speaking, can you do that?” yelled the mayor Misciagna said previously when the borough had a low surplus account, that affected the borough credit rating, which increased bonding costs, and also affected the municipal budget for four or five years.

Misciagna said later that he was not fighting with Fenwick over the tax breaks for residents, but instead noted that he wanted “to do it responsibly and responsibly is to make hard cuts. Have you made any real hard cuts?” he quizzed Fenwick.

Fenwick cited an alleged $100,000 in savings from terminating Falkensternʼs dual position while Misciagna said those savings were nullified by a raise to the new administrator and borough clerk Maggie Giandomenico and others doing additional duties.

Fenwick disagreed completely with Misciagna; Misciagna said he would “illustrate that” there were no savings at the next meeting. He did not mention

Update:188 B’way development hearing now June

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFFLAKE

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, June 13 at 7 p.m. on the proposed 46unit residential development planned for 188 Broadway — one piece of a multi-part legal settlement with the applicant, borough and Fair Share Housing Center that was approved by the Borough Council in December 2022.

The date was changed from June 5 to June 13. A public notice was published on May 28, after last weekʼs press time, noting the date change of the public hearing. No reason was given.

The applicant, 188 Broadway LLP, had filed separate lawsuits against prior Zoning Board of Adjustment decisions in 2019 and 2021 that rejected prior applications for a 60-unit and a 53-unit development on the former office building site.

As part of the December 2022 legal agreement, the council approved a memorandum of understanding between the applicant and borough that called for the borough to rezone the 188 Broadway site and allow the 46 residential units, including 37 rental units and a total of nine townhomes.

The agreement allows the existing office building to be converted into 37 rental units, and allows two buildings behind that structure that include nine townhome units. (See “Itʼs Settled: 46 Housing Units At 188 Broadway.”)

To implement the settlement, a redevelopment plan for the site at 188 Broadway was recently developed and approved by Borough Council earlier this year

“The applicant seeks preliminary and final site plan approval for a project consistent with the Redevelopment Plan. Specifically,

the applicant seeks to convert an existing 42,300 (approx.) square foot office building to multifamily

residential use consisting of 37 units and site plan approval for the construction of nine townhomes in

two buildings,” reads the public notice published on May 23.

The project requires 81 park-

ing spaces and 96 are provided, the notice states.

Council clears $5.15M bond for DePiero land

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

MONTVALE

The Borough Council voted, May 30, to approve a $5.15 million bond for just over 8 acres of farmland for possible recreation and community uses — the councilʼs second significant land purchase within a year.

The vote was 5-0. Council President Douglas Arendacs was absent.

“Itʼs exciting. Itʼs going to be a real town asset for us,” Mayor Mike Ghassali told Pascack Press

on May 31. He said most of the land will stay as a farm for at least the next year via a lease arrangement with DePiero Farms.

DePieroʼs celebrates its 100year anniversary in the borough sometime next year.

Ghassali said if the borough were able to keep the property as a farm, by possibly leasing it to a farmer or agricultural business, they would likely do it. He said the site could also be used for community gardens, as well as educational and recreational uses.

He said the council has also mentioned a portion of the site as a potential community center, since that would help relieve some traffic congestion near Memorial Drive, site of the Senior Community Center.

New, Used & Rare Books

Last summer, the borough purchased 28.4 acres at 127 Summit Ave. for $4.6 million for recreational uses, mostly construction of a nature trail through its acres of wetlands. (Veolia North America is negotiating for sale of 2 acres of buildable land there to site a water tower.)

Previously, borough attorney David Lafferty said they anticipate a closing date on the property sale of late August or September. He said they would be working with borough engineer Andrew Hipolit, Colliers Engineering and Design,

on due diligence.

Ghassali said soil and environmental tests would be conducted on the site — mostly used for agricultural and nursery crops — and said he expected final reports on any potential contaminants by sometime this summer.

He said he would not be surprised if contaminants were found, and if remediation was necessary, they would work with the seller to resolve it.

Pascack Press submitted a records request for the purchase agreement negotiated with the estate of Elaine DePiero.

Ghassali had estimated that the $5 million in bonding would cost an average household $70

yearly over 25 years. He noted last yearʼs $4.6 million in bonding for 127 Summit Ave. costs an average $64 yearly, or “less than $6 per month for each of the properties.”

“Either way we were going to buy this land so that it doesnʼt go to a developer,” said the mayor. (See “Borough Looks To Buy DePiero land; Bond proposed,” Michael Olohan, May 1, 2023, Pascack Press.)

He noted that between the two properties 37 acres are saved from development and that “we have about $10 million in property assets…that we can use for what is good for the borough.”

The bonding ordinance notes that the borough is acquiring the real property known as 53 Craig Road and a portion of Summit Avenue consisting of approximately 8.393 acres and identified as Block 1903, Lot 5 (2.67 acres) and a portion of Block 1903, Lot 3 (5.723 acres) on the official tax map of the borough.

It adds, “The Borough Council hereby confirms its approval of the fair market value of the property of $4,982,091 as of the date of the adoption of this ordinance.”

County Pride Flag Raising, Fest June 8

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco, Bergen New Bridge CEO Deborah Visconi, the Bergen County Board of County Commissioners, Buddies of NJ, and the Bergen County LGBTQ+ Alliance will host the second annual joint Pride Flag Raising and Resource Festival at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, 230 East Ridgewood Ave., Paramus, on Thursday, June 8 at 5 p.m.

This year, the joint County/Bergen New Bridge event will announce the expansion of Bergen New Bridgeʼs LGBTQIA+ Health and Wellness unit, as well as offer special recognition to municipalities that have been proactively inclusive to the LGBTQIA+ community and have hosted Pride celebrations in the respective borough, township, or city

The resource festival will follow the flag raising with music, giveaways, resource tables, and refreshments to celebrate Pride.

DePiero Farms is on track to celebrate its 100-year anniversary in the borough in 2024. Michael Olohan photo

Playground, turf field projects in motion

Via Mayor Michael Ghassali, May 28…

Bergen County Open Space Grant Awards – Huff Park Playground

Montvale received $78,625 for Huff Park Playground

Improvements: rubberized safety surfacing playground. The scope of work for the project will be revised to upgrade the playground equipment and then, if funds remain, re-do the surfacing (this may not but rubberized surface,

but another ADA-compliant alternative). Resolution No. 100-2023 was adopted on April 13, 2023, authorizing an execution of grant agreement with the County of Bergen. The scope of work has been revised to purchasing and installing custom 2–5-year-old playground equipment; and installing an ADA-compliant playground surface (if feasible based on project and grant funds remaining after playground equipment installation).

2023 Bergen County Open Space Grant Program — Memorial Drive MAL field

We are preparing a grant application for a new synthetic turf field at the Memorial Drive MAL field. The proposed scope includes replacing the clay infield with a new synthetic turf field, including associated drainage components and related work. The existing features, such as the fence, will also be replaced as

needed. We submitted the grant application to Bergen County on May 12, 2023. The borough

authorized submission of grant application to the county by Resolution No. 112-2023.

feet, and where 18.67 and 19 feet are proposed,” the notice states.

FROM PAGE 7

The applicant requests a variance from the Supplemental Standards For Townhomes of the Redevelopment Plan, “which requires that the minimum townhome driveway apron width be 20

The public can view the application at the Planning Board offices between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday. The offices are at 188 Pascack Road. To view documents, contact board secretary Clairesse Neumann at (201) 391-4977 ext. 210 or cneumann@wclnj.com

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFFLAKE

A nearly $3 million bond ordinance is up for public hearing on June 12 at 7 p.m. to make infrastructure improvements, including replacement of a sanitary sewer pump station that was damaged when remnants of Tropical Storm Ida hit New Jersey nearly two years ago.

The ordinance was introduced at the May 22 meeting. Borough administrator Tom Padilla said that based on discussions with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the borough will be eligible for up to 90% reimbursement for Ida-related bonding costs.

Padilla said all of the work needs to be completed by August 2024. Once the work is completed, Padilla said that FEMA will reimburse the borough and the final local cost will be approximately $300,000.

The work includes reconstruction of stormwater outfalls and various sidewalk, guide rail, embankment, fencing, stormwater pipe, spillway and riprap wall improvements near the Old Mill Complex

entranceway.

The infrastructure workʼs appropriation and estimated cost is $754,000, with a down payment of $36,000 and bonds and notes authorized for $718,000. The bondsʼperiod of usefulness is 10 years.

Moreover, the work will include replacement of the Werimus Lane Sanitary Sewer Pump Station, including site improvements and related sanitary sewer improvements.

The pump stationʼs appropriation and estimated cost is $2,246,000, with a down payment of $107,000. The bonds and notes authorized are $2,139,000, with a usefulness of approximately 40

years.

The two major infrastructure improvement projects total $3,000,000, including down payments of $143,000 and bonds and notes authorized at $2,857,000.

The average useful life totals 32.46 years, said borough clerk Debbie Dakin.

Rolling reassessments

Council also approved Resolution 23-141 for a $225,000, fiveyear contract with Appraisal Systems Inc., Glen Rock, for annual rolling reassessments of local properties. The resolution was not listed on the agenda.

Padilla said for the prior nine years, the borough has done rolling

reassessments of property taxes. He said they were notified that morning that they had to inform the county Tax Board by the end of May whether the borough planned to continue rolling reassessments.

He said the current and prior tax assessors were in favor of continuing rolling assessments. An annual rolling tax assessment allows a portion of the town to be assessed yearly, keeping assessments near market value while the whole town is generally reassessed over a five

year period.

In New Jersey, towns are required to do a town-wide property assessment every decade but more towns are moving to “rolling assessments” to keep assessed values nearer to market value, rather than risking large property tax increases every decade or so.

Attorney John Schettino said council could add items to an agenda because the council approves an annual calendar of council meetings.

River Vale,NJ

With all the events around Bergen and Rockland County, the Montvale Street Fair — Sunday, June 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Paragon Drive — is one of the most popular events of the season The fair expects to attract more than 20,000 people from all over the region.

Wegmans Food Market is the title sponsor, along with many other local businesses.

Paragon Drive has been a perfect setting for the fair. The tree-lined street is transformed into a large fair with more than 100 vendors featuring antiques and crafts from all over New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania; rides; amusements; music

and exceptional food vendors. The fair has something for each member of the family. For more

montvalechamber.com

Cheers—then what?—after ZBA rejects mall proposal

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

The Zoning Board of Adjustmentʼs May 16 decision to deny applicant 660 Pascack Realty LLCʼs proposal for a 17,100square-foot “Four Seasons Marketplace” at Pascack Road and Washington Avenue was roundly applauded by neighbors who recently spoke to Pascack Press

The neighbors also wondered what the township planned to do to the proposed siteʼs three long dilapidated homes, owned by 660 Pascack Realty.

Applicant Attorney Bruce Whitaker told Pascack Press recently that the applicant was “weighing its options” following the Zoning Boardʼs 6-1 vote, including a legal appeal. (See “Nope! Zoning board rejects strip mall by 6-1 vote,” May 22, 2023, Michael Olohan)

However, the attorney was not reachable last week to update the applicantʼs future plans. 660 Pascack Realty LLC is majority owned by Seasons Catering owner James Kourgelis.

Meisten Street resident Michael Agnello, who has opposed the retail project from its inception last fall, alleged that the proposed strip mall would harm water quality in a tributary that flows through his yard, joins the Musquapsink Brook, and flows toward Oradell Reservoir, a drinking water source for about 800,000 in Bergen and Passaic counties.

Agnello said that his homeʼs deed, when he purchased it in 1981, showed an easement for the stream and that he was told then it was a protected Category One waterway. A report by Boswell Engineering recently determined the stream was not a regulated waterway because it drained only 48.832 acres, when 50 acres is required for a regulated waterway.

Although questions were raised about the Boswell findings, it was unclear if the matter figured into the Zoning Boardʼs final vote. No Zoning Board member offered a public comment on their vote.

A resolution memorializing the Zoning Board decision is likely at the June 20 meeting.

At the May 22 council meeting, Agnello thanked the ZBA, noting “they did a lot [and] stepped up and protected our

town.”

Agnello asked whether the three, long-vacant, dilapidated homes at the Pascack-Washington corner would be addressed and asked what the townʼs plans were. He said one corner house was less than 10 feet off Pascack Road, raising safety concerns.

Administrator Mark DiCarlo told Agnello that the homesʼ owner was issued summonses with a June 1 court date. He also said a total of seven property owners were issued summonses, extensions, and a court date if repairs were not made.

Agnello also called on the council to question the Zoning Boardʼs planning consultant,

(Joseph Burgis, Burgis Associates) whom he alleged had made incorrect comments to the Zoning Board members.

He also questioned whether the board attorney, Gary Giannantonio, could effectively go against the applicantʼs attorney should an appeal be undertaken, and called on him to be replaced. He asked the council to assist with both matters.

Agnello alleged that everything said by the applicantʼs attorney (Whitaker) was agreed with by the Zoning Boardʼs attorney He said the board attorney showed “no strength at the meetings” and alleged that he was not likely to do well head-to-head against Whitak-

er should the applicant appeal.

Town attorney Ken Poller said the ZBA chooses its own attorney without council input. He said it was “not something that the council could get involved in.”

Poller said the Zoning Board could, based on its own questions about experience or expertise, choose another attorney but “itʼs not something Iʼve seen before.”

Councilman Tom Sears advised Agnello to go to the ZBA and seek guidance on concerns about the attorney who might deal with an appeal.

In addition to Agnello, nearby residents of Northgate Condominiums who have expressed reservations about noise, pollution, lack of screening, and storm runoff impacts, lauded the vote.

Missy Valantassis, president, Board of Directors, Northgate Condominiums, told Pascack Press that Northgate residents are “greatly relieved” that the strip mall application was denied.

“Per the Master Plan of our town, this site was zoned for residential use, and there is no value in rezoning this property as commercial in order to add a shopping plaza when there is already one about a mile down the road. What would be the benefit to the public?” she said.

The intersection upon which this was to be built already has three corners with commercial activity as well as emergency services close by on Washington Avenue. An assisted living facility is being built in the lot after Seasons. This intersection, which has finally just been widened and improved, is already busy with traffic. Adding a shopping plaza would further increase the traffic flow, possibly causing congestion and accidents.” said Valantassis.

She said during ZBA hearings, not one resident spoke in favor of the proposed strip mall.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

An applicant attorney tells Pascack Press that his client is “weighing options” following the ZBA’s May 16 rejection of the proposed 4 Seasons Marketplace at Pascack Road and Washington Avenue.

River Vale has three open school board seats

The River Vale School District has information available for citizens interested in running for the board of education.

The River Vale Board of Education will have three full, threeyear term vacancies in the Nov. 7, 2023 annual School Election, Kelly Ippolito, school business administrator and board secretary, announced May 30.

A candidate must file a nominating petition with the county clerk for his or her name to appear on the ballot during the November Annual School Election. The

PARK RIDGE

deadline to submit the nominating petition is 4 p.m. Monday, July 31, 2023.

Prospective school board candidates can download candidate information from the New Jersey School Boards Associationʼs website at NJSBA School Board Candidate Kit, which includes information about nominating petitions, legal qualifications for school board candidacy, and the role of the school board member. Information about the New Jersey School Ethics Act and important dates in the school elec-

tion process is also included.

“One of the most meaningful contributions that citizens can make to their community is serving on the local board of education,” said Irene M. LeFebvre, New Jersey School Boards Association president. “I encourage all interested citizens to consider school board membership. It doesnʼt require a degree in education, or a background in politics. However, it does require a sincere interest in the community, its children, and their education.”

OLM to celebrate Corpus Christi

Our Lady of Mercy Church in Park Ridge will mark the Feast of Corpus Christi on June 11. The feast will be celebrated at a bilingual Mass at 11 a.m. followed by a procession.

The Holy Eucharist in a monstrance will be carried from the

Church north on Pascack Road and then east on Park Avenue, concluding at the Park Ridge Library.

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body & Blood of Christ, historically known by its Latin name, Corpus Christi, celebrates the

Catholic faith “in the real presence of Jesus Christ, body, blood, soul, and divinity in the Eucharist.”

The feast dates back to the Middle Ages and is celebrated by some other religious denominations. All are invited to join in the procession.

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

DoDentalImplantsLastaLifetime?

Implant dentistry has been practiced by periodontists and oral surgeons since the 1970s. There is over 50 years of research proving that dental implants are a predictable long-term option when placed by an experienced

for

surgeon. In fact, the data shows a lifetime success rate of over 98%!

Dental Implants are a Science, not a Technique

It takes years of academic training and practice to master and achieve this skill – and this level of success. Recently, more general dentists are offering to surgically place dental implants. However, their training is typically in the range of 40-100 hours of coursework, compared to the three-year, full-time residency which is required to be a Board-Certified Periodontist & Dental Implant Surgeon. This is one reason why the American Dental Academy (ADA) stipulates that only periodontists (not even oral surgeons) can call themselves dental implant surgeons.

There are a number of other reasons why it is important to choose a periodontist for your treatment – all of which involve maintaining the health of your implants. Periodontists focus on the gum and bone surrounding your teeth and implants. We also learn fullmouth treatment planning with the capability of saving your teeth, not just replacing them. Unlike any other fields in dentistry, a periodontist can regenerate gum andbone on your teeth and implants. This allows us save teeth ailing from a bad bite and gum disease. Our surgical skill within the mouth is unparalleled. An oral surgeon is a maxillofacial specialist whose training is focused outside the oral cavity, on the maxilla mandible spaces. This is why they are the right choice for buried wisdom teeth extractions.

Another reason for our success rate is that periodontists support the long-term health of the implants we place with strong hygiene practices.

We not only surgically place the implant, but we monitor and follow up with the treatments during your routine cleanings on an annual or biannual basis. This allows us to diagnosis and treat any implant problems, regardless of their complexity. Oral surgeons do not provide this service and cannot monitor your treatments in the future.

Are Dental Implants Worth the Expense?

Costs vary depending on the number of implants, the type of prosthesis and bone grafting. In addition, there is as much range in the cost of dental implants as there is in the quality. Proven and predictable treatment outcomes involve the use of dental implants from manufacturers that have perfected the design based on decades of research involving thousands of their implants.

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

When it comes to making a decision about dental implants, I advise my patients not to compromise on the quality. Keep in mind that you are considering a treatment that should last a lifetime, so it is more important to take into account the value. While dental implants may be more costly than options such as removable dentures, the long-term value makes them a great financial investment.

For more information, call (201) 664-3023 or visit their office at 354 Old Hook Road #201 or WestwoodPeriodontics.com.

PRIYU GUPTA, DDS, WESTWOOD PERIODONTICS

FROM PAGE 2

two world wars and by the Iron Curtain in the 20th century. We stood clearly against the threat of communism in Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Asia, and then led our allies in the fight against international terrorism.

That is the legacy which we have acquired. I believe it still speaks to us and certainly to the many who wish to come to America. This is why I am proud to be an American. It is why the sacrifices of those we commemorate today must not be forgotten.

We are so fortunate to live in a nation that allows us to have a robust and open discussion on what paths America should follow

and, when enough of us agree, to follow that path. That right of self-determination is at the heart of democracy and is what our brave soldiers who died for our nation sought to defend.

Many Americans believe we are at a crossroad, and that some of our rights as Americans are being threatened. But we have faced crossroads before, and to quote the poet Robert Frost, we “took the [road] less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

America has always been blessed with the freedom to take its own path, the road less traveled by others. And while today we pay homage to our war dead, their voices call out to us, urging us to prepare for whatever crossroads lie ahead. They died so that we can have that right. Let us listen to their voices, and be proud to be

Americans!

Mayor John J. Ruocco Hillsdale

Fenwick on Park Ridge budget

To the editor: OURAUDITOR provided me with the following figures: the average home in Park Ridge has an assessed value of $474,000, which will pay on average, in 2023, $3,380 in municipal property tax and $214 in statemandated library property tax. The state mandated library tax increase is $24 per average household for 2023.

I am proud that my fellow

R epublican councilmen and I passed the first budget in over 10 years that has no municipal tax increase for the residents of Park Ridge. Through an increase in non-tax revenues and identifying common sense savings, we were able to pass a budget that maintains the same quality level of municipal services our residents enjoy without having a municipal tax increase.

I was dismayed at the mayorʼs attempts during the budget hearing to shut down the public debate over the budget.

When Mayor Misciagna tried to end the public question period after only Democratic council candidates Metzdorf and Mintz had spoken, I made sure the other residents present were given an opportunity to speak, as is their right. Sure enough, there was another resident who then made

comments that would not have been heard if the public question period had been closed. As council president, I pledge that our residents will always have their voices heard at our council meetings.

While the mayor stated that he wanted to make further “hard cuts” to the budget, he failed to identify any such cuts at any meeting of the council or finance committee.

Should he choose to identify what these cuts are we would be happy to discuss same with him and work to implement them, so long as they have no negative impact on the quality of municipal services our residents receive.

William Fenwick Park Ridge

A gorgeous John Costigan watercolor in Park Ridge

Hi, Jon,

About 40 years ago I frequently helped an elderly neighbor with her yard work and errands. Just before she d ied she gave me this watercolor, 27 inches b y 37 inches, and mentioned that she had been friends with the artist. She told me that some day it would be valuable. Iʼm not very interested in art, but I do like this painting. The colors are so beautiful. The artistʼs name appears to be Costigan.

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

Please tell me what you might know about this artist.

— Harold in Park Ridge

Hi, Harold,

As soon as I saw the photos of your painting, I knew who the artist was. This artist is one of my favorites. Your painting was executed by the very well listed and

Spread the word!

important American artist John Edward Costigan (1888–1972). I own several of his paintings. He was mainly self-taught. No formal training.

Costigan lived in Orangeburg, N.Y. until his death. Iʼve met sev-

eral longtime residents of Pearl River, N.Y. who knew him. Heʼs known for his strong brush stroke and his interest in the common person as a subject model. Most of his subjects were his wife and children.

His most famous mediums are oil and watercolor paintings as well as etchings. In 1928 he became a member of the National Academy of Design, hence the A.N.A, initials on your painting next to his name. He was also a longtime member of the Salmagundi Club in New York City. His art adorns the walls at 47 5th Ave.

Costigan has an impressive auction history, with prices into the five digits. Your watercolor painting, with its wonderful gold leaf finish wood frame, has a value of $ 2,500.

Thank you for sending me the photographs. I enjoy getting to see an undiscovered John Costigan painting. If youʼre ever in New York City stop at the Salmagundi Club to see more of his fantastic paintings and woodblock etchings.

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.

R.Z.M. Fine Arts & Antiques, Inc.

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

Planning:

FROM PAGE 3

160 Spring Valley Road

This 81-unit townhome development, north of Upper Saddle River Road, has 49 units occupied in eight of 11 buildings. The developer started construction on Building 1 closest to Spring Valley Road. The borough has issued 55 Certificates of Occupancy (COs). Status is same.

AR Landmark (Hornrock) – 12 Van Riper Road

The applicant has obtained all required building permits from the borough and continues to install off-site utilities and is continuing foundation work. This development includes 185-dwelling units over parking in the Montvale portion of the larger AR Landmark development in Montvale, Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake. (448 units are proposed for the Park Ridge portion of the site). Work continues at this site with the installation of the foundation, curbing and site utilities. Work

WESTWOOD

continues and sidewalk construction began along Phillips Pkwy and onto the site. Construction is continuing for sidewalk work.

De Pieroʼs/Montvale Development Phase II – 20 & 22 Philips Parkway

This application proposed the construction of two buildings, with a day-care center and a separate lifestyle building with up to four tenant spaces. This property, at the corner of Philips and Grand, continues to be developed with work on the framing for the building closest to Grand Avenue. Everbrook Academy will occupy the building farthest from Grand Avenue and Philips Parkway. Building permits issued for Buildings H and I. The retaining walls are almost complete and both buildings have been constructed. Construction is continuing including paving, installation of bollards, sidewalk, and fire hydrant water line installation.

Woodland Heights/Flintlock Road

The Homeowners Association has prepared an Engineers Report outlining required improvements prior to their

50+CLUBSPRING LUNCHEON JUNE 7

St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club of Westwood has its spring luncheon on Wednesday, June 7 at Madeleineʼs Petit Paris, North-

acceptance of the site from the developer. There was a meeting held with the Planning Board Site Plan review sub-committee on May 17 with members of the Homeowners Association (HOA) to discuss the homeowners site restrictions within this condominium development. This 20-home subdivision off Woodland Road

has one undeveloped lot remaining in this development. COAH fees will be collected once the Applicant applies for the construction of the final home site. There is one home site remaining in this development. Status is same. No COAH fee received. Status is same.

De Pieroʼs Lifestyle Buildings

One tenant space remaining in “Ulta” building. Status is same.

Gray Capital – 100 Summit Avenue

Permits have not been issued. Status is same.

vale. Cost is $50. For more information call Angie at (201) 6663888.

Three of the newest members of the River Vale Volunteer Ambulance Corps — James Greco, Natalie Weissman, and Jill Thompson — are enrolled in emergency medical technician courses this summer.

In the interim, they will ride as observers. Once certified as EMTs, they will spend several months as probationary members practicing newly learned skills under the close supervision of their crew chiefs. Greco and Weissman are high school students. Thompson is a retired executive assistant.

Interested in joining? Call (201) 446-7904 or email rvambcorps@rvvac.com.

Kudos, Tom Migliore! The power of a knock volunteer

Tom Migliore says it was simply a matter of being in the right place at the right time. But those who know him best would argue that saving the life of a Meals on Wheels client was more like a miracle.

Tom has been a volunteer with Meals on Wheels North Jersey since 2018. A married father of three, he was diagnosed with Parkinsonʼs disease in 2017 and retired on disability. “I was advised that the best thing I could do was to keep my body and my brain active,” says Tom. “Thatʼs where Meals on Wheels comes into play.”

A lifelong resident of Closter, Tom had grown up with Jeanne Martin, who has served as executive director of Meals on Wheels North Jersey for over 18 years.

“From conversations with my neighbor, Jeanneʼs father, I knew about her involvement in the organization,” Tom recalls. “I liked the idea of helping homebound seniors live independently by delivering nutritious meals. I also knew it was an opportunity to provide so much more by having a face-to-face conversation and making sure they were all right. So, I signed on as a volunteer.”

Caring for others in his community is one of the qualities that makes Tom special, and this was not his first time serving as a volunteer. He has been an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) with the Closter Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Corps since 1976,

except for a 10-year break when his kids were growing up.

A few months after he began driving his first Meals on Wheels route, Tom was making a routine delivery to a senior he had met several times before.

“She was in her mid-80s, and always greeted me at the door,” he says. “She had a different hairdo every time I saw her, and I would comment on it and sheʼd perk up

one motion,I pushed the door,dropped my delivery bag and caught her as she collapsed in my arms.”

phone and she didnʼt pick up. Then he noticed the door was slightly open. As he reached for the handle, he saw her inside.

“She started swaying and my first aid instinct kicked in,” Tom says. “In one motion, I pushed the door, dropped my delivery bag and caught her as she collapsed in my arms.”

been taken to.”

Then Tom went about his day. “It definitely shook me up, but Iʼve been an EMT for so long it was routine.”

right away. Iʼd ask how she and her kids were doing, or say it was too hot or too cold to be outside. I could tell she anticipated these visits, and I enjoyed taking the extra time to make a connection. This is the crux of what we do.”

On this particular day, there was construction and a detour on the street leading to the clientʼs home. Tom had to take another route, and later wondered if the client had seen him pull away and gotten worried. When he arrived and rang the bell, she didnʼt answer. He tried calling on the

After moving her into the living room and performing a quick examination, he ran out to his car to grab his jump kit – a bag containing emergency medical supplies. He alerted one of the police officers directing traffic in the street to call for help, then went back inside and administered basic first aid measures for someone who has passed out and is unresponsive. The woman was breathing and had a pulse, but her blood pressure and pulse were low. Tom knew something was seriously wrong.

An officer arrived and began to administer oxygen, and several minutes later an ambulance arrived, followed by a paramedic unit. Tom helped the first aid squad load the woman into the ambulance, and asked who was listed as her emergency contact. “It was her son, and I wanted to be sure that he heard a calm and friendly voice when he got the call. I told him what had happened, and which hospital she had

Privacy laws prevented him from learning anything more about the clientʼs condition, but a few weeks later he was back on her route. When he pulled in the driveway, he was relieved to see her waiting at the door. “She gave me the biggest smile, and thanked me for what I had done. We both had tears in our eyes,” says Tom. “She could have been my mother. These folks, they are our peers, our neighbors, and it is a privilege to be able to make even a small difference in their day-to-day lives. ”

Martin was not surprised to learn that Tom had saved a clientʼs life. “Heʼs like Superman – someone we know we can count on to step in and help whenever and wherever needed.” Tomʼs commitment to the mission and his clients stands out. “Our client was incredibly lucky that he was driving that route that day. There is no one better than Tom to be there in a life-anddeath situation.”

With typical modesty, Tom says he does not deserve any credit for what was literally a life-changing moment for his client. “I was just doing my job.”

Meals on Wheels North Jersey volunteer Tom Migliore, who is awarded for lifesaving work on his route:“Iwas just doing my job.” Courtesy photo

“She started swaying and my first aid instinct kicked in,”Tom says.“In

Dining & Cooking Guide

Johl & Company Insurance Agency celebrates 60 years

In April 1963, John Johl formed his own insurance agency on the sun porch of his home in Haworth, starting with an empty file cabinet, a typewriter, and a dream that a person, willing to work hard, could build a successful business serving the needs of his friends and neighbors.

Now, 60 years later, that business has grown, employs 25 people and serves thousands of individuals, families, and businesses all over New Jersey and in 20 other states.

John retired in 2011 and is doing well in Connecticut with his wife, Emily.

Sandra Ewen, a native of Westwood, joined the firm 46 years ago and is the owner of the

agency. In April, staff celebrated with Johl at a luncheon in Westwood.

The staff, many of whom have been with the agency over 15 years, utilize a state of the art

computer system which permits rate comparisons with a multitude of A+ rated insurance companies, including Amtrust, Andover, Chubb, Hartford, Travelers, Selective, Plymouth Rock, Hanover,

Philadelphia, Preferred Mutual, Penn National, Providence, Pro-

gressive, Liberty Mutual, Encompass, Nationwide, Franklin Mutual, Aetna, United Healthcare, Horizon BCBS and many more.

That dream of 1963 has become a reality as Johl & Company continues to grow and serve the insurance needs of people and businesses in this growing part of the country. The commitment to a high standard of excellence in establishing a relationship of trust and service has boded well for this agency.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

HEREʼS AROUNDUP of some of what our libraries are offering patrons in the next days and weeks. (Register unless specified otherwise.) 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.

E EMMEERRSSOON N

20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604

emersonlibrary.org

• Monday, June 5 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.: Knitters Circle for adults. At 3:30 p.m.: Afternoon Storytime

• Tuesday, June 6 at 3:30 p.m.: Switch Club, grades 2-4. Register each child per date. At 11 a.m.:

Baby and Me At 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga, adults. At 6:30 p.m.: This and That Book Club for adults: “The Christie Affair.”

• Wednesday, June 7 at 10:30

a.m.: Preschool Storytime and Craft, ages 2-5. Register.

RIVER VALE FRIENDSHIP CLUBMEETINGS

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

•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.

• Thursday, June 8 at 10:30 a.m.: Sensory Storytime, ages 2–5.

• Friday June 9 at 1 p.m.: Move, Learn and Grow ages 2–5.

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

• Monday, June 5 at 6 p.m.: Sundial Garden Club.

• Tuesday, June 6 at 7 p.m.: Meditation with Cherlyn. At 10 a.m.: Knitting For Beginners

• Wednesday, June 7 at 2 p.m.: Hillsdale Matinees Presents “80 For Brady.”

• Thursday, June 8 at 7 p.m.: Thomas Santos Live. Free concert given by a local talent.

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

• Tuesday, June 6 at 11:30 a.m.: Managing Arthritis and Joint Pain. Registration required.

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

• Monday June 5 at 11:30 a.m.: Restorative Yoga

• Tuesday, June 6 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee

• Wednesday, June 7 at 1 p.m.:

Movie Matinee

• Thursday, June 8 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee

R RIIVVEER R V VAALLE E

412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323

rivervalelibrary.org

Monday, June 5 at 4 p.m.:

Decorate the Childrenʼs Room!: For third grade and up.

• Tuesday, June 6 at 10:30

a.m.: Bubble Party! Ages 6 Months to 4 years. At 1 p.m.:

Movie Matinee “Living.” At 5 p.m.:Mah Jongg Club.

• Wednesday, June 7 at 4 p.m.: Childrenʼs Bingo: For residents in grades 1–5.

• Wednesday, June 7 at 6 p.m.: Adult Craft: Candle Holder.

• Thursday, June 8 at 10:30

a.m.: Beach Story Time for 6 months to 4 years. At 1 p.m.:

Movie Matinee “80 for Brady.”

• Friday, June 9 at 10 a.m.: Knit and Crochet Group. At 1 p.m.: Afternoon Mah Jong.

144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586

twpofwashingtonpl.org

• Summer Story Times Begin! Tuesdays at 10 a.m. for ages 2–5. Fridays at 10 a.m. for infants up to 2 years.

•Monday, June 5: Cartooning with Mr. John at 5:30 p.m. Join John in an exploration of cartoon characters and techniques. Grades 3–5.

•Tuesday, June 6: Read to Fiona at 3:45 p.m. Our therapy dog Fiona is a great listener! Sheʼll be here for hugs and to listen to you read.

• Wednesday, June 7: Crafts to Share at 3:45 p.m. Ages 4 and up. Make paper flowers with your caregiver.

•Friday, June 9: Art Club at 3:45 p.m. Grades K–5 Our teen volunteer is back to show you how to draw simple, seasonal pictures.

•Saturday, June 10: Family Story Time at 10:30 a.m. Meet new people and make a craft with your child.

• CPR & AED Classes for National CPR & AED Week!

Monday, June 5 at 9 a.m. Two hours; at 3:30: Special class for teens includes infant CPR: Three hours. Thursday, June 8 at 6 p.m. Waitlist only

• Saturday, June 10 at 1 p.m. CPR Challenge. Residents of all ages are invited to test their CPR skills in a fun and educational afternoon. Prizes awarded.

•Tuesday, June 6: Mat

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

Seniors’ BBQ, Hudson cruise

The River Vale Sr. Friendship Clubʼs annual summer BBQ, hosted by the River Vale Police Department, is June 21 this year. This is a members only luncheon. Doors open at noon.

Aug. 22 brings a two-hour luncheon cruise along the Hudson River, aboard the Luxury Bateaux glass boat in NYC, plus a visit to either Chelsea Market or Hudson Yards, where you might shop or just take a walk on the High Line.

Reservations for this trip must be made ASAP. Cost is $95 for members and $98 for nonmembers.

The Lancaster trip is cancelled over lack of sign-ups. For more information call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

FROM PAGE 22

Yoga at 5:30 p.m. Open to all levels of practice. Bring your own mat and any props you may need, such as blocks, straps, or bolster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in. At 6 p.m. Teen Tuesday Hang Out: Crafts and games, including Switch. Snacks. Grades 6–12.

•Wednesday, June 7: Movie

Matinee at 1 p.m. At 6:30 p.m.: Historic Mansions & Gardens Lecture with Barbara Ferrante, a local lecturer and art history expert. Please register.

•Thursday, June 8: Chair

Yoga at 9:45 and 11 a.m. From 6 to 7 p.m.: Social Stitching organized by Clayton Leadbetter, a local crafter and instructor. Social

sessions are for those who already know how to knit or crochet — no lessons will be taught.

•Friday, June 9: Adult Coloring & Craft Group at 1 p.m. Calling all coloring fans, stitchers, knitters, crocheters, and more! Coloring supplies will be provided or you can bring your own craft project to work on. Refreshments will be served..

W WEESSTTWWOOOOD D 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org

• Monday, June 5 at 7 p.m.: Garden Club Meeting (Upstairs Meeting Room). At 7 p.m.: LVPV ESL Class, Beginner.

• Tuesday, June 6 at 9 a.m.:

ANATOMY OF THE IRON HORSE BURGER

LVPV ESL Online Class , Advanced. At 11 a.m. ASL Practice Group At 11 a.m or 7 p.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class intermediate. At 7 p.m.: Knitting and Crocheting.

• Thursday, June 8 at 9 a.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class ,

Advanced.

• Thursday, June 8 at 11 a.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class intermediate

• Friday, June 9 at 10:30 a.m.: Summer Series Music & Movement: Kindermusik (children to age 5) VeteransʼMemorial Park.

Registration required. At 11 a.m.: Knitting and Crocheting Club Registration required.

• Saturday, June 10 from 10 a.m to 3 p.m.: Friends of the Library Giant Book Sale. Thanks for patronizing your local library!

PROJECT: HOW TO BUILD BERGEN’S BEST CHEESEBURGER!

PHONE: 201-666-9682

PROJECT LOCATION: 20 WASHINGTON AVE WESTWOOD, NJ

FAX: 201-666-1163

Come visit our website www.theironhorse.com

“Best Cheeseburger in Bergen”

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

Owner Beni Qosja opened Giulioʼs Restaurant in 2022. Housed in a beautiful, romantic, Queen Anne Victorian in Historic Tappan, N.Y., just minutes from Bergen County, Giulioʼs Restaur ant offers contemporary Italian cuisine.

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

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

of Livingston and current owner of Limoncello in Waldwick, the y ears of world class experience and passion for culinary creations is evident in each and every of his signature dishes.

G iulioʼs Restaurant creates contemporary dishes with only the finest and freshest ingredie nts. Visit for a drink in the fullservice bar, a casual meal by the fireplace, or to celebrate your life's most memorable events in o ne of the private dining rooms.

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

When you go…

Giulioʼs Restaurant

154 Washington Street Tappan, N.Y. 845-359-3657

See website for hours: www.giuliosrestaurant.com

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Kids go big on art

Temple Pledge Group #19 Rainbow Girls participated in the Celebrate Westwood Yarn Bomb Squad Project at their May 23 meeting. They had a great time making pom poms and tassels to contribute to this exciting community art project. They also gathered donations of completed yarn projects from experienced yarn artists.

Rainbow is a unique leadership and service organization for girls ages 5–20 that develops incredible public speaking skills and lifelong friendships. New members are welcome year round. Write templepledge19@gmail.com

THE PARK RIDGE

The Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee Present TOWNPICNIC TOWNPICNIC TOWNPICNIC TOWNPICNIC TOWNPICNIC TOWNPICNIC

SATURDAY, JUNE 10 • NOON-5PM

DAVIES FIELD

(Behind Borough Hall, 53 Park Avenue)

RAIN DATE JUNE 11

Featuring Live Music All Day with “The Big One’s”, Delicious Food, Exciting New Rides , Ice Cream Truck, Biergarten, Face Painting, Balloon Animals, Magic, Community Business Tables with Free Services/Giveaways, New Games, Surprises and Soooooo Much More !!!

Special thanks to our Awesome Sponsors!

T D BANK • CAROLEE CHIRICO, KELLER WILLIAMS VALLEY REALTY EMERSON ANIMAL HOSPITAL • LA MIRAGE JEWELER

NEGLIA GROUP • PARK RIDGE CHIROPRACTIC

WESTWOOD

Via Elizabeth Amodeo

FROM PAGE 1

Ave. sought a minor site plan approval to change its use from two residential rental units and one commercial/office to one residential unit and one commercial/office unit.

“As a property within the Jefferson Avenue Historic District, this application triggered a Certificate of Appropriateness review by the Westwood Historic Preservation Commission. The COA was denied by the HPC and the application moved to review by the Westwood Planning Board.

“After much deliberation and lengthy negotiations between the Planning Board, Historic Preservation Commission, and applicant regarding materials, massing, and aesthetics, the application was ultimately approved by the Planning Board with particular requirements for materials and repair/restoration over replacement.”

The result, wrote Letizia, was “an outstanding preservation and restoration project which encapsulated the spirit of the application of the Secretary of the Interiorʼs Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties when applied within a local review process.”

She said, “The final project succeeded in masterfully retaining the most defining characteristics of the historic structure, while also allowing the property owner reasonable modern adaptations.”

History of 57 Jefferson Ave., Westwood

Letizia noted that 57 Jefferson Ave. is a colonial revival style foursquare, built c. 1905 as a single family residence. In 2011 it was designated as part of the Jefferson Avenue Historic District for its association with the expansion of Westwood in the late 19th to early 20th century from a small commercial enclave into a commuter railroad suburb.

She said, “Following the introduction of passenger rail service linking Westwood to New York City in 1870, an initial wave of residential development radiated outward from the Westwood train station. The Jefferson Avenue Historic District encapsulates the significant development trajectory 1900–1910 when the Boroughʼs population increased from 828 to

1,870 residents due largely in part to the increased passenger service, the construction of a water plant (1899), and the introduction of electricity.”

Letizia said, “The homes along Jefferson Avenue were constructed by judge and local real estate investor George T. Brickell and his son, Thomas G. Brickell, director of the First National Bank, mayor of Westwood, postmaster, and town collector, during the first wave of suburban residential development ca. 1890–1905.”

“Before the designation of the district, the majority of homes on Jefferson Avenue were subjected to front, side, and rear additions in order to accommodate single-family expansions, mixed-use, and/or multi-family conversions, but the historic street-scape impression still exists.

“Despite alterations, the cohesiveness of the block is derived from its similarity in bulk (2.5 story frame houses), its irregularity of massing (multiple gable-front dormers and bays), its wraparound

porches, and surviving elements including select columns, window and door entablatures, wooden doors, and ribbon windows.

Letizia said, “At the time of designation, 57 Jefferson was the only structure on the block which retained its original wood clapboard siding and semi-circular shingles along three bays and dormers. Exceptional architectural qualities included a hipped roof, wraparound porch supported by fluted Ionic columns, a bowed balustrade, and a pair of ribbon windows with colored glass in the third story dormer.”

Restoration and Preservation of 57 Jefferson Avenue

According to Letizia, “The property underwent significant interior renovation and exterior restoration and the result was a well crafted, respectful restoration which maximized the property ownerʼs use of the structure while also preserving architectural history within the district.”

Most notably, she said, “The

massing and design of the porch was retained through a combination of restoration (roof pitch, balustrades, and columns) and replacement (decking and stairs), and the flaring of the exterior walls at the roofline were replicated. Unique windows such as the ones on the third story were fully restored and gutters were appropriately reconstructed.”

Since its completion, several other buildings along Jefferson Avenue have undergone smaller restoration projects (none of which triggered HPC or Planning Board reviews) which have improved the aesthetics and historical impression of the streetscape.

Letizia said, “Beyond its historic and aesthetic value within the Jefferson Avenue Historic District, the restoration of 57 Jefferson was outstanding for the ways in which an applicant's desires, perceived limitations, and practical needs were considered alongside the impact of historic preservation and restoration for the municipality as a whole.”

She added, “The Westwood Historic Preservation Commission and Planning Board exhibited the nuance that often comes with local interpretation of the Secretary of the Interiorʼs Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties in order to best preserve the history of a structure and district, while also addressing immutable realities.”

And she said, “Through its consideration and negotiations, the Commission, Board, and applicant were able to work together to strike a reasonable and conscientious balance that will preserve the history of 57 Jefferson and the Jefferson Avenue historic district for

to

years

come.”

57 Jefferson Ave. before and after Architect Brian J. Callahan, AIA Callahan Architecture LLC, earned a 2023 Bergen County Historic Preservation Award from the Bergen County Historic Preservation Advisory Board and Bergen County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs in the category Historic Preservation Project. (After photo by Richard Frant/Frant Visuals.)

Left to right: Mary Amoroso, Bergen County Commissioner; Rafael Marte, Bergen County Commissioner; Brian J. Callahan, AIA Callahan Architecture, LLC; William J. Martin, AIA Bergen County Historic Preservation Advisory Board and evening’s emcee; Beth Dell, Westwood Councilwoman. Donna Brennan photo

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

Bergen County Players open auditions June 19, 20, 22

Bergen County Players will open its 91st season this September with “Rent,” the Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning rock musical that shaped a generation of audiences.

Open auditions will take place at the Little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, June 19, 20, and 22 at 7:30 p.m. BCP seeks an ethnically diverse cast of men and women ages 18–40.

With music, book and lyrics by Jonathan Larson, “Rent” brings together a multi-ethnic cast of characters, portrayed by both BCP veterans and newcomers alike.

With direction by Steve Bell, musical direction by Will Rich, and choreography by Diana Baer, this timeless musical reminds us to measure our lives with the only

thing that truly matters — love. Based loosely on Pucciniʼs La Bohème, “Rent” follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create in New Yorkʼs Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. How these young bohemians negotiate their dreams, loves, and conflicts pro-

vides the narrative thread to this groundbreaking musical. This is theatre at its best — exuberant, passionate, and joyous.

“Rent” had its world premiere Off-Broadway on Feb. 13, 1996, at New York Theatre Workshop and forever changed the landscape of American theater. It moved to Broadway the same year, won the

Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and was nominated for 10 Tony Awards, winning for Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, and Best Original Score; the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Book of a Musical, Outstanding Music, and Outstanding Lyrics; and many others.

The production ran for 12 consecutive years, becoming one of the longest-running shows on Broadway.

Callbacks will include readings from the script and singing a song from the show.

Rehearsals are scheduled to begin immediately following the audition process. All rehearsals will take place at the Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell.

Public performance dates are Sept. 9–Oct. 14, Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

Bergen County Players encourages and is committed to a diverse and inclusive theater experience.

Unless otherwise specified, BCP will cast any actor in any role if appropriate, without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, physicality, or disability. Casting will be characterdriven; therefore, actors are encouraged to audition for any roles in which they are interested.

For more information write Steve Bell at BCPSteve@aol.com or visit bcplayers.org

The Bergen County Players, Inc. is a non-Equity, non-profit community theater company dedicated to presenting quality productions for the enrichment of the community and is a member of the New Jersey Association of Community Theaters.

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

PASCACK VALLEY

Summer class, specialty camp registration underway

Itʼs time to make summer activity plans with the Westwood Recreation Department. Residents and neighbors can take part in tennis clinics and soccer squirts in July and specialty camps in August by registering via Community Pass at https://register.communitypass.net/westwood

On the class schedule for Summer: Soccer Squirts where toddlers/preschoolers will learn the fundamental skills of soccer, including dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending; tennis for kids in grades K-8 with certified USTA instructors who teach basic tennis techniques in a fun and engaging environment; tennis for adults includes tennis basics with dynamic warm-ups, skill developments drills, and games that develop core skills and understanding of the sport rules and etiquette.

August specialty camps include TGA Tennis & Golf Camps for Grades K-8 at Westwood High School; USSI MultiSports Camp for ages 5-11 at Brookside Park and Lego Camp for grades K-5. Details on August camps can be found at westwoodnj.gov/recreation in the Summer Program Guide.

In addition, residents and neighbors are reminded that registration for the six-week Summer Playground Program is underway as is Westwood Recreation Pre-

Railway:

FROM PAGE 4

Meetings are open to all at no charge. For anyone interested in railroading, current and past, these monthly events offer an opportunity to meet with others sharing a common interest.

For more information, call John Locke at (201) 739-4528.

School registration for the 202324 school year. Details for both programs can be found at westwoodnj.gov/recreation.

The Westwood Recreation Department uses Community Pass for its registration process. Interested participants who do not already have a Community Pass account can go to

HILLSDALE

westwoodnj.gov/recreation and click the Community Pass Registration Page to be guided through the process.

To register for classes go to https://register.communitypass.net/we stwood. Visa and MasterCard are accepted. To pay by cash/check, stop in the office at 55 Jefferson Ave.

SIGNUPFOR CAMP LITTLE HAWKS

Hillsdale Recreation presents Hillsdale & River Valeʼs Camp Little Hawks, for Hillsdale, River Vale, and St. Johnʼs Academy children entering kindergarten.

Camp runs June 26–July 28, Monday–Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Certified teacher supervision! Arts & crafts, swim (kiddie pool with lifeguards), Mad Science, music, dance, STEM,

sports, optional preordered lunch on swim days, two field trips/special events. Before and after care is available.

This is a great way for your kids to make friends heading into kindergarten.

For more information, visit hillsdalenj.org/summerdaycamp, call Jill at (201) 497-1542, or email jcohn@hillsdalenj.org.

Residents and neighbors who participate in Westwood Recreation programs will receive information on upcoming classes in programs guides, emails and on social media.

Those interested in learning more about facility rentals including the use of the newly renovated

kitchen for private events or for use by professional chefs and catering companies are encouraged to contact Recreation Director Gary Buchheister at (201) 664-7882 or gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov. Westwood Recreation programs and forms are listed at westwoodnj.gov/recreation.

Hillsdale firefighters cheer PRFD chief Durst on 50 years

It was Mayor Keith Misciagnaʼs evident pleasure to report that last weekend Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department Chief Mark Durst was honored by the Hillsdale Volunteer Fire Department for 50 years of distinguished service.

Misciagna told residents in his email update of May 26 that Durst joined the Hillsdale Fire Department in 1973, at 19. He was first elected lieutenant in 1976 and rose through the ranks, becoming chief in 1983. While serving as chief he

served as president of the Pascack Valley Fire Chiefs Association. In 1984 he served as president of the Hillsdale Fire Department Association.

Durst and his wife, Sherry, moved to Park Ridge in 2002. That

year Durst joined the Park Ridge Fire Department. He was elected chief this January — the same week the PRFD happily took delivery of two new state of the art battery operated combination hydraulic rescue tools, to be split between engines PR2 and PR4 — and remains active in the Hillsdale Fire

Department. Said Misciagna, “Chief Durstʼs dedication, devotion and longevity as a volunteer firefighter speaks volumes. To dedicate 50 years is truly amazing! Thank you for your volunteerism and service.”

—John Snyder

Fifty years of excellence: Mayor Keith Misciagna swears in Mark Durst as chief of the Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department in January 2023. Last week the Hillsdale Volunteer Fire Department, where Durst started out, was elected chief in 1983, and with which he’s still active, lauded him for 50 years of distinguished service. PRFD/Facebook

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.

PICKLEBALLTOURNEY JUNE 10–11

The River Vale Fire Department Association is hosting a pickleball tournament at the new Mark Lane pickleball courts to celebrate their 100th anniversary of service to the community. To sign up for the June 10–11 event, or to make a donation, visit the River Vale Fire Department on Facebook.

TOASTMASTERS 35TH ANNUALDINNER JUNE 19

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.

Valley Toastmastersʼs 35th annual dinner and reunion at Donatellaʼs restaurant in Harrington Park is Monday, June 19 from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. New officers will be installed, old officers thanked. All are welcome to join. $35 payable in advance. F or details write maxinekauf-

man@optonline.net.

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Headquartered in Colorado, the organizationʼs membership is some 280,000 in 144 countries.

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

the matter at the May 23 meeting.

Both Fenwick and Misciagna again loudly argued over an annual $78,000 parking lease payment to The James, and who was responsible for monetizing the spaces there.

Misciagna said Fenwick did not do anything for two years and Fenwick said that he had been “begging” the council to do something about monetizing the parking spaces.

Fenwick also said that

“remonetizing” the commuter parking lot was likely to generate $10,000 to $15,000 annually, which Misciagna disputed. The lot had previously waived parking fees during the Covid pandemic, he said.

Fenwick estimated about $330,000 would come in from areas that he targeted for savings or revenues, but Misciagna said that would not occur.

Misciagna asked finance professionals at the meeting whether they could see the savings as outlined by Fenwick but it was not clear whether they all agreed on what savings or revenues were possible.

THERE ARE SOME THINGS IN LIFE YOU CAN CONTROL

trol

During times of heightened stress a person can quickly become overwhelmed and even

struggle to do things that might be considered simple or obvious. It can be helpful to focus on the things you can control, to identify actions that you can take, and to complete those action steps. Here are four action items an investor may want to consider completing during extraordinary (and ordinary) times.

Step 1. Review your investment plan. Before you start making changes to your investment portfolio, the first thing you should do is consider your goals. Are you saving for retirement? Do you need to build a college fund for your children? Did a recent event create a need to adjust your plan? If your goals have changed or if you havenʼt updated your plan in a while, set up a meeting with your Financial Advisor to review and update your investment strategy to support reaching your goals.

Step 2. Understand your risk tolerance. After recent events, you may have a new definition of your tolerance for risk.

Risk is a key principle in investing. Some investments are riskier than others, but every financial decision involves risk. Risk is inescapable, so the key is to understand your risk tolerance and manage the risk you are taking, which should be based on your long-term financial goals. If your tolerance for risk has changed, review your strategy with your Financial Advisor and make sure you are still comfortable with the amount of risk youʼre taking.

Step 3.Stick to your plan. When the market gets volatile, investors often have an emotional reaction and may want to pull out of the market to try to avoid loss. Try to remember that moving or selling investments during a market

decline will likely lock in the losses; staying invested may allow you to benefit when the market comes back. If you havenʼt updated your plan in a while, set up a meeting with your Financial Advisor to review it and make any necessary adjustments.

Step 4. Organize and update important documents. Are your important documents up to date and accessible to those who may need them?

Take time to create a reference list of your documents and consider creating a digital version for easy storage and accessibility. Also check that your beneficiary designations for investment accounts, life insurance, and other accounts are up to date to reflect any new circumstances such as marriage, birth, death, or divorce. Beneficiary designations typically supersede your will so youʼll want to confirm that your beneficiary designations are current and accurate.

Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice Be sure to consult with your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax consequences. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state.

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.

Investments in securities and insurance products are not FDICinsured/not bank-guaranteed and may lose value.

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

© 2017–2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

When things seem out of control, there are some things you can con-

ERIC KOHLMEIER

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

PRHS CLASSOF 1973 50THANNIVERSARY REUNION SEPT. 30

Park Ridge High Schoolʼs Class of 1973 holds its 50th reunion celebration on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott in Montvale. Graduates from other classes are invited to attend.

This is a wonderful opportunity to see old friends while enjoying music, dancing, and a hot buffet. Several events have been planned for the weekend: On Friday night, the class will be featured at the homecoming football game, followed by an informal gathering at the American Legion. Saturday morning will feature a tour of the high school and a Sunday brunch is being scheduled. This promises to be a fun, memorable weekend.

50th anniversary apparel may be purchased at https://park-ridge-high-

school-class-of-73.square.site

For registration, tickets and more information visit reunionmanger.com

We’ve been trained to serve your needs and solve your problems and, for the most part that’s what we do. Obviously, every case is not winable and every crisis doesn’t vanish over night...but appropriate measures taken at the right time can improve situations that once looked hopeless.

We care about our clients and we try to give them the very best that is in us. That’s our promise, so if you need legal help and don’t mind visiting a well used office...give us a call.

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 ICAVL-approved vascular lab that allows for immediate testing with an accurate 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 procedures 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

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

Arts:

FROM PAGE 1

and Dave Dunn, and newcomers Mike Rooney, Candice Lee, and Sam Sings.

Celebrate Westwood teases the possibility of additional surprise guests as the season unfolds, with the potential for more performances if the weather allows.

All performances begin at 7 p.m. along the sidewalks of Westwood Avenue unless otherwise posted on Celebrate Westwood's website or social media.

Each performance is sponsored by local business members of the BIZhub committee.

Get your art on!

On Saturday, June 10 from 3 to 7 p.m., Celebrate Westwood hosts local photographers, illustrators, painters, crafters and other types of creatives from Westwood and neighboring towns at Veterans Memorial Park, Broadway and 3rd Avenue.

Artists participating in this yearʼs event include photographers Benjamin J Faresich, Kyle Lagatol,

Maria Aklian, Jodi Murphy, Anna Wojno-Oranski, and Bergen County Camera; painters Paul Manzella, Arleen Zabala, Elke Donofrio, Garry Breithaupt, Laura Lee Hallada, Dennis Meeha, Nicole Zanetakos, and Stefanie Jones;

Nevine Sharif, Mercedes Amato, Carol McCabe, Edyta Ostrowska, Thomas Connell, and Joe Rodriguez.

Students from Westwood Music Studios rock band program will bring their musical talents to

park by creating sidewalk chalk art throughout the event (chalk provided).

Arts in the Park is a free event, open to the public. Images of artistsʼwork can be viewed at celebratewestwood.org/arts-in-the-park2023 and on Celebrate Westwood social media @celebratewestwood.

Shop the Hub

Moreover, Celebrate Westwoodʼs BIZhub committeeʼs premier shopping and dining event, Shop the Hub, runs the same day. Retailers, service providers, and restaurants are looking forward to providing unique sales, specials, promotions, giveaways, popup events, and creative use of outdoor spaces.

At 7 p.m. the Celebrate Westwood Music on the Avenues series welcomes musician Steffani Beate at the intersection of Center and Westwood avenues.

sought to find ways for residents and visitors to connect safely. With the rise of outdoor dining, the addition of ʻa little night musicʼwas a welcome reprieve from masks and isolation.”

Likewise, Celebrate Westwood created Shop the Hub days in spring 2020 as a way to create the spirit of a sidewalk sale in which many businesses participate toward a common goal, without needing to close the streets.

Arts in the Park 2023 evolved from Creative Bergenʼs Arts Amble, a biennial event.

RoseAnn Ciarlante tells Pascack Press the committee is “thankful for the return of warmer weather and the governing bodyʼs enduring support to enable the return of outdoor dining and small musical acts downtown for the fourth consecutive year.”

graphic designers and illustrators

Caithy Liao and Adam Cohen; and artisans Yellow Door Art Studio, Danielle Davies, Danielle OʼBrien, Laurie Donnis, Michelle Fleischer,

the bandstand during the event, playing an eclectic mix of classic rock favorites.

Attendees are also welcome to bring their own artistic skills to the

This is the fourth year Celebrate Westwood is hosting artists and artisans as part of its public arts programming. Music on the Avenues (formerly Arts on the Avenues) began as a musical busking program at the height of the pandemic. According to Lauren Letizia, “Celebrate Westwood

To learn more about Music on the Avenues, BIZhub, Shop the Hub, or Celebrate Westwoodʼs other community events, visit celebratwestwood.org or find the organization on Facebook and Instagram. For more information write Lauren Letizia and RoseAnn Ciarlante at celebratewestwood@gmail.com

Graphic designer and illustrator Caithy Liao (right) displays her work at the 2022 Arts Amble Westwood.Liao is one of more than 25 participants at the 2023 Arts in the Park,now part of Celebrate Westwood’s Arts on the Avenues program. Celebrate Westwood photo

Cheers:

FROM PAGE 13

“The footprint of the buildings and the number of parking spaces provided for a tightly packed site of commercial activity caused great concern among residents. The question was always, who would benefit?” she noted.

Another Northgate resident, James Case of Braeburn Drive, said, “By denying this application, our Zoning Board has protected the residential character of our Township. Their vote says that zoning maps matter and our Master Plan, which explicitly limits commercial uses to the existing class C Retail Business Area, has value and meaning. I, and many others, applaud their decision,” he told Pascack Press.

Another critic, Diane Ferrara, said that increased traffic from a new strip mall may have created a “traffic and safety nightmare” at the busy and recently expanded intersection.

Ferrara said, “There isnʼt a single intersection in the entire nine miles starting north of us in Montvale all the way south to Route 4 in Paramus along this roadway that sees anywhere near the amount of traffic and unparalleled complexity of traffic patterns that the intersection of Pascack Road and Washington Avenue will see once the roadways are expanded with four and five lanes of traffic moving in all four directions.

She said, “To have added to these complex patterns of moving traffic the additional element of cars stopping, merging, crossing, leaving and entering a shopping mall at the very same intersection would have amounted to a dereliction of duty and a permanent, irreversible danger to both vehicles and pedestrians alike.”

She said, “I am deeply relieved that our Township has been spared the traffic and safety nightmare that the proposed Four Seasons shopping center would have caused at the new intersection. Thank you for a job well done.”

Municipal pool registration underway

The Park Ridge Municipal Pool opened on Saturday, May 27. Pool memberships are open to all residents, previous pool members, and non-resident employees of Park Ridge borough and the local board of education.

A limited number of memberships will be offered to non-residents, so get your registrations in early once they are available.

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

Membership rates remain what they were in 2019:

• Resident family: $410

• Resident single: $300

• Resident seniors: Free

• Non-resident family: $510

• Non-resident: single: $360

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

Registration is available electronically on the Park Ridge Municipal Pool page at parkridgeboro.com

Note the registration due dates to avoid a $35 late fee. If electronic signup is not possible, paper pool registration forms can be picked up at the pool office weekends, from May 6, from noon to 3 p.m.

Please read the pool informa-

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

The Park Ridge Municipal Pool normally provides swim lessons and such activities as competitive swim and dive teams, arts and crafts, story time, Red Cross lifeguard training, and other special events as posted throughout the summer.

For more information visit parkridgeboro.com or write pool@parkridgeboro.com

FROM PAGE 1

sights, songs, and dress of farflung lands. (And, in the case of the United States, something of the down-home familiar.)

Reports coming in say the youngsters had an amazing experience researching and representing the culture of many countries. The students shared traditional foods, tables were decorated with countriesʼcolors, and world flags represented millions of families.

Memorial Elementary School families cooked up a world showcase food court, and students went all in on cultural research, showing off what they learned.

Administration thanked the PTO and parent volunteers for their hard work.

About the Montvale PTO

The Montvale PTO says itʼs a community of dedicated volunteers who strive to enhance the learning experiences for students at Memorial Elementary School and Fieldstone Middle School. “With community support, we continually raise funds to create opportunities for curriculum, building and social emotional enhancements that will directly benefit our children, and strengthen our school community.”

Through volunteering and fundraising, the Montvale PTO donates $20,000 annually for school curriculum enhancements. Montvale PTO also makes contributions towards the 4th and 8th grade milestone celebrations, Fieldstone Middle Schools 3 Rʼs Day (Respect, Reflect, and Remembrance) field days, and awards $1,000 in an annual scholarship for a graduating Montvale senior at Pascack Hills High School.

It says, “We also work to enhance our school community in the form of staff appreciation events, the traditional Memorial Ice Cream Social, Spring Fling at Fieldstone, and the popular Fieldstone Friday Nights. We also facilitate many events throughout the year to strengthen the learning experience of Montvale students including PTO Scholastic Book Fairs, International Day, Memorial School Yearbooks, Memorial School Holiday Boutique, and holiday celebrations and special

event treats for students. We also offer Montvale students hot lunches twice a week with the popular Montvale PTO Hot Lunch Program.”

During the 2021–2022 school year, the PTO offered $20,000 to support curriculum enhancements at Memorial Elementary School and Fieldstone Middle School. These enhancements included six author visits for students at both

International: Day delivers HOUSE TOURS

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.

schools, a Character Education assembly at Memorial School, and a building enhancement at Fieldstone Middle School.

“We were happy to provide new Fieldstone Falcon signage for every classroom throughout the middle school building, which will make changing classes easier on our new middle school students. We were also thrilled to gift

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS

Letters: International: Day delivers;

FROM PAGE 17

Pizzella, Ruocco,Osso in Hillsdale

To the editor:

MYNAMEIS Frank Pizzella, and I am following up on my last letter wherein I talked about some of my accomplishments as a councilmember in Hillsdale by once again thanking the Republican County Committee for selecting me to run as the Republican candidate for Mayor

of Hillsdale alongside John Ruocco and Clemente Osso, who are running on the Republican ticket for council.

I served Hillsdale on council since 2010, and I completed my last term in December 2022. I am excited about the opportunity to represent the residents of Hillsdale once again.

I strongly encourage all Hillsdale Republicans to come out for the primary on Tuesday, June 6, and support the Republican ticket. Thank you for your support.

Frank Pizzella Hillsdale

PRIMARYELECTIONDAY is Tuesday, June 6. The General Election is Tuesday, Nov. 7. Follow the races with Pascack Press at thepressgroup.net

FROM PAGE 41

both Memorial and Fieldstone schools with new recess equipment, provide snacks for Field Day, and support our 4th and 8th grade class classes with planning and financial contributions for milestone celebrations.”

DIDYOURFAMILY participate in this yearʼs Annual International Day? What were your impressions? Drop us a note at PascackPress@ThePressGroup.net

Photos this page and next by Josyane Harcher.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 43

local families ‘tour’ the world

Well-Being Series

PKRG-TV presents Ep. 3 of its Well-Being series, which starts airing on June 5 at various times and days. The series, which focuses on health, is hosted by Trevor Dublin. Ep. 3 features Kim Seelig, owner of Pure Barre of Park

Ridge, with a discussion of their Align fitness program for building strength, mobility and flexibility, including a demonstration. PKRG-TV, Optimum Ch. 77 (Park Ridge) and Verizon FIOS Ch. 22. Visit pkrgtv.com.

PARK RIDGE

HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

You can train to teach ESL

Make a difference in your community:Volunteer to teach English as a Second Language!

Since 1982, Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley has been training volunteers to teach English to adults in their community. This online workshop is run by certified trainers and the program is an accredited member of Proliteracy.

Upon completion of the

workshop, LVPV will match each volunteer with an appropriate student.

This workshop is open to residents of Allendale, Cresskill, Dumont, Emerson, Franklin Lakes, Hillsdale, Lodi, Montvale, Paramus, Park Ridge, Ramsey, River Vale, Teaneck and Westwood. Tutoring may be remote or in person, depending on your preference.

Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley is pleased to announce the next online foursession Tutor Training Workshop on Aug. 1, 8, 15, and 22 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Volunteers must be 18 or older. Contact Marilyn Katz or Cheryl Chang at literacyvolunteerspv@gmail.com to register. You may also register at literacyvolunteerspv.org/tutor-training-workshopform.html

Part time M-F, 8:30am-2 pm or 2-7:30pm. Email cover letter and resume by 4pm on June 16 to Borough Administrator Robert G. Hermansen at rhermansen@emersonnj .org. The Borough reserves the right to interview and hire a candidate before the closing date of this advertisement. EOE

FULL/PART-TIME FINANCE SPECIALIST – BOROUGH OF HILLSDALE - The Borough of Hillsdale is accepting applications for an immediate, full or part-time Finance Specialist. Experience and proficiency are required in municipal accounting; Edmund’s software; as well as Word, Excel and general municipal-government practices. Must be highly organized, detail oriented and able to perform various, finance-related functions and multi-task. Responsibilities include but are not limited to performing day-to day financial transactions, including verifying, classifying and recording accounts payable data. Preparing invoices to be processed for payment, reconciling and analyzing our accounts payable system: purchasing, prepare periodic reports on a monthly basis. Accounts payable, including end of year requirements; purchase requisitions and purchase orders; bill lists; payment and check processing; revenue and expenditure/budget reports. Finance Specialist will perform additional, various duties and functions as assigned by the CMFO or Administrator. Salary DOQ. EOE. The Borough reserves the right to interview and hire while this advertisement is active. Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter that includes salary requirements to the Borough Clerk, Denise Kohan at dkohan@hillsdalenj.org.

LP P W WAANNTTEED

D

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

CALL 201.664.2105 To Advertise Your Garage Sale!

WESTWOOD CALL 201.664.2105 To Advertise Your Garage Sale!

DIRECTORY DIRECTORY

The Westwood Senior Fellowship annual June luncheon is Tuesday, June 13 at Domaniʼs restaurant, Kings plaza, Hillsdale. The doors open at 11:30 a.m. and the cost is $40. Call Rita at 6661754.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

Department of Public Works is seeking individuals to assist with maintenance beginning on or about May 15.

Experience not necessary. Pays $15 per hour. Responsibilities include park & field maintenance, emptying garbage cans, litter removal, & performing other manual labor duties. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.

Wanted To Buy: All records, instruments, guitars, drums, microphones, old stereos, ect. Call Tony 201-262-4970 or Cell 201509-7079.

Full-Time DPW Worker –Borough of Hillsdale. The Department of Public Works is seeking a responsible individual with building maintenance experience to perform various repairs on borough buildings & parks. Skills include carpentry, plumbing, masonry, electrical, & HVAC are preferred. Work will also include snow & leaf removal & other public works tasks. CDL Class B is required or the ability to secure within 1 year. Starting salary is $40,007 plus benefits. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.

Candidate must have a valid Rutgers Youth Sports Research Council Safety Course Clinician Certification or obtain within six months of employment. All interested applications should possess a valid New Jersey Driver's license, including a safe driving record and must pass a background check.

Salary shall be commensurate with experience.

Qualified candidates should submit their resume and salary requirements to Denise Kohan, Borough Clerk at dkohan@hillsdalenj.org by June 13, 2023. Hillsdale is an Equal Opportunity Employer and reserves the right to interview applicants as received.

Help WantedLandscaping: crew leader- clean DL, experience driving with trailers & trucks & running equipment & crews , 2 yrs. min. Good pay & hours. Growing company. 201-664-3130.

S

SIITTUUAATTIIOON

Caregivers seek position for evenings, weekends, overnight and live-in. Experienced, with references. Fully vaccinated. Call 201-823-7923.

F FOOR R S SAALLE E

Two pool ladders, inside and outside. $500 for pair.

WANT BUSINESS? Call (201)664-2105 Professional Offices180 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan – For Rent, $450/month. Call 201768-0218. C COOMMMMEERRCCIIAAL L R REENNT T T TEEAAM M P PLLAAYYEER R W WAAN NT TEED D Professional Junk Removal Company seeks an enthusiastic and energetic individual to help join their growing team. Drivers license & transportation required. Call (201)661-4940 for more details. FULLTIME RECREATION COORDINATOR –BOROUGH OF HILLSDALE – BERGEN COUNTY - The Borough of Hillsdale seeks an experienced professional for a full-time Recreation Coordinator. Demonstrated experience required in the operation of recreation programs. The ideal candidate shall plan, organize, coordinate, and direct assigned recreation programs, activities, and special events as

1930 Ford Model ARumble Seat Coupe. 35yr. old Resoration. Like New. $15,000. Emerson. Call 551-502-0795

C CAAR R F FOOR R S SAALLE E WANT BUSINESS? Call (201)664-2105