PASCACK PRESS 8.21.23

LOCAL BANDS POWER 1ST CONCERT SERIES

Mayor Danielle DiPaola cheers family townʼs inaugural offering; The Emerson Project next, on Aug. 23

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

The Borough of Emerson kicked off its inaugural Summer Concert Series on the front lawn at historic Borough Hall on the evening of Wednesday, Aug. 9.

Resident and popular musician Steven Connolly entertained a crowd of nearly 200 with an acoustic variety of classic and popular hits.

The mayor and council hosted the event — an evening at Borough Hall through the See LOCAL on page 22

DIVER’S WORLD FEELS RIGHT DIVER’S WORLD FEELS RIGHT

WT dive academy nurtures U.S. junior champion

WESTWOOD

‘PIECES FALLING’

AUTHOR OFFERS 9/11 REFLECTIONS

Ann Van Hine lost her husband, of the FDNY; proceeds of Sept. 7 visit support Friends of the Westwood Library

The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood, in partnership with the Westwood Public Library, invite the community to join in an afternoon of Sept. 11 remembrance featuring author Ann Van Hine.

The event — on Thursday, Sept. 7 at noon at the Westwood Public Library, 49 Park Ave. — features a discussion with Van Hine, who lost her husband, Richard Bruce Van Hine, a Bronx firefighter, Squad 41, on Sept. 11, 2001. She shares her story of personal loss amid a national tragedy in her book, “Pieces Falling: Navigating 9/11 with Faith, Family & The FDNY ”

BY PATRICKBREEN SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

ARIYA SUWANIS one of the top junior divers in the country, competing with Team USA in Sweden, and traveling to AAU competitions all over the United States.

At just 10 years old — the

Old Tappan resident is looking forward to fifth grade at Charles DeWolf Middle School — Ariya already has won multiple national competitions.

In July she took home first place in the 1-meter and 3-meter high dives, and second on platform, at the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) National Championships in Riverside, Calif.,

HEAVY METAL

The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood tell Pascack Press that Van Hine says she believes that the stories of Sept. 11, 2001 are like a mosaic. “The stories donʼt fit together like a puzzle. Instead, they lay next to each other to form the larger narrative of what happened that day and since.”

Van Hineʼs journey parallels the evolution of Ground Zero from a place of death and destruction to the moving Memorial Plaza today — and is a beautiful testament to the See PIECES on page 9

Bckintime...

A scene captured in Hillsdale around 1908 shows the now-venerable Riley Building, at the corner of Broadway and Hillsdale Avenue, when it was just a couple of years old.

The Nam Knights of America Motorcycle Club gifts ‘big, beautiful’ Weber grills to the New Jersey Veterans Home at Paramus.

Burt McCarroll of Emerson graduates from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. PAGE 5

EMERSON

and followed that up with top-

Ariya Suwan, 10, second from left, with other 2023 Amateur Athletic Union National qualifiers: Milla, Christian, Simran, Nick, and Chloe; and (inset) with her mom, Kokoe Tanaka-Suwan. Ariya took up competitive diving during the pandemic and is developing as one to watch internationally. Pike Dive Academy/family photos

PHOTO VIA FRED DI TECCO

Continued on page 26

TANS eyes more work on jet noise

To the editor:

ON BEHALFOF TANS, Taxpayers for Aircraft

Noise Solutions, we thank John Snyder and Michael Olohan for their well-written article covering TANS and our mission. [Residentsʼjetnoise appeal in FAAʼs court,” Page 1, July 10, 2023.]

TANS received a response to our first letter to the FAA. We are encouraged that the FAA responded. However, their response highlights that there is more work to be

PASCACK PRESS

done. Quality of life is important to all, and we know that no one intends to impede anyone elseʼs quality of life. Yet the increased air traffic, choices the FAA is making when routing planes, and pilot and airport management decisions are doing just that: adversely impacting the lives of the taxpayers beneath the planes and surrounding the airports.

The area of impact is no longer just a five-mile radius surrounding the airport: Towns up to 12 miles outside the airport are impacted by excessive noise, vibration, pollution, etc. TANS is committed to continuing to shed light on this issue.

TANS will also continue to educate on the complexities of this issue. TANS seeks to

encourage those that are impacted by air traffic in the Pascack Valley and surrounding areas to join our mission. TANS believes through research, education and communication we will open the eyes of the decision makers involved in this industry to work with us to create positive change that is safe and restores the quality of life of the residents of our respective communities.

Audrey Herget Park Ridge TANS representative

‘Back in Time’ piece resonates with reader

To the editor:

THANKYOUFOR your Back In Time article by Kristin Beuscher, “Giving rise to a reservoir” (Aug. 14, 2023). It was well-written, fascinating to read, and cer-

tainly represents a piece of important Woodcliff Lake and Bergen County history.

I knew the lake was manmade but never knew anything about the Italian connection to the lakeʼs construction. My Italian-American family moved from the Bronx to Woodcliff Lake on Jan. 1, 1976 and my mom, Ginny DiFlora, still lives in the same wonderful home, facing the lake at Pascack and Heritage Court. Weʼve always found Woodcliff Lake and Pascack Valley to be accepting and inclusive. And besides, Who else is gonna make the sauce on Sunday!

Steven J. DiFlora, P.E. Pound Ridge, N.Y.

Press warehouse owners on solar

To the editor:

THEREISMUCHTALK about energy independence and how we are going to get there. Unfortunately, our politicians are unable to think outside the box and therefore promise a lot but deliver little. There is an easy way for New Jersey to get close to producing all of its energy clean and green. Anybody who has driven through what I call the Grand Canyon of New Jersey,

between exits 11 and 8 on the turnpike, will have seen the endless line of warehouses that have millions of square feet of flat roofs. These warehouses destroy thousands of acres of farmland by covering it over with cement. In return we get jobs that pay mostly minimum wages, or just above the minimum.

It is time that New Jersey gets something in return from these corporations that turn our state into one giant concrete slab. We need a law that retroactively requires all flat roofs above, say 1,000 square feet, to be 70% covered with solar panels. This would instantly make us 90% or more green. All we need are politicians who are willing to take on the warehouse owners and not worry about political contributions to their next campaign.

Wilhelm D. Auer Westwood

Revised policy bad for students, teachers

Re: “Westwood BOE and Big Brother” and ʻSchools chief dings policy coverage,” Letters, Pascack Press, Aug 14, 2023

To the editor:

THE CONTROVERSIAL-ISSUE policy approved by the Westwood BOE in 2007 is not the problem. School administration should establish curriculum guidelines. However, there is a major difference between spontaneous classroom discussion of controversial issues and defined board-approved curriculum.

The real problem is the recently passed expanded definition of that policy. I fear the new regulations will both stifle student discussion and inhibit and intimidate teachers.

James Drew Westwood

Locals join League of Women Voters board, eye on Nov. 7

PASCACKVALLEY

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley (LWVNV) elected and installed its 2023-2024 board of directors and officers at its 77th annual meeting.

As well, the LWVNV outlined its plans to provide voters with information they need to make informed decisions in the General Election in New Jersey on Tuesday, Nov. 7.

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

New Bridge Medical Center is the countryʼs fourth largest, publicly owned hospital, serving as a safety net for New Jerseyʼs most vulnerable populations in the stateʼs most populous county.

Board of Directors Installed

At the Annual Meeting, the

LWVNV elected and welcomed its new board of directors. The officers are Leonia residents Nike Prieston Bach as president and Joyce Luhrs as first vice president of marketing and public relations chair.

Other officers elected to the board are Vicki Sidrow from Fort Lee as treasurer and Andrew Meehan from Hackensack as secretary These members were elected directors: Demarest residents Linda Cetta and Maureen Neville, Park Ridge residents Kelly Epstein and Lucy Heller, Anne Lander from Harrington Park, and Sally Tayeb of Dumont.

Peggy Kabakow (off-board) joined Vicki Sidrow on the Budget Committee. Cathie Mick (off-board) and Andrew Meehan joined the Nominating Committee.

Empowering Voters

During the past 12 months, the LWVNV provided voters with nonpartisan materials to make informed decisions in elections. The chapter also moderated at Candidate Forums, a key service offered by the League for decades, allowing voters to hear from candidates and ask questions.

The LWVNV joined League members throughout the state to prepare for the Primary Election in June providing voter information about the election process. The chapter reached out to libraries in its service area, distributed voter information to the public, and interviewed state legislators.

The LWVNV joined other League chapters across the country in celebrating the organizationʼs 103rd birthday on Feb. 14.

The League of Women Voters of the United States United Nationsʼobserver provided updates about meetings and the Leagueʼs activities at the United Nations on the chapterʼs social media platforms.

The LWVNV discussed and approved:

• Retaining all of the League of Women Voters of New

Jerseyʼs Study and Action, 20212023 positions;

• Undertaking a new study on reparations to address the harm caused by New Jerseyʼs role in slavery and its legacy of systemic racial discrimination;

•Undertaking a study of alternative election systems, including the use of Ranked Choice Voting; and

•Recommending an update to the Legal Status Women position to reflect the economic security needs of women as they age.

Bach said in a statement, “For 103 years, the League of Women Voters has sought to

empower citizens to shape better communities through information and advocacy.”

She said, “We are perhaps best known for our non-partisan voter services: registering voters in towns, high schools, or senior citizen facilities; organizing and conducting candidate forums; and creating a Voterʼs Guide of questions and answers of candidates, who are running for elected office.”

She said, “The LWVNV invites residents in our 29 Northern Valley towns to join us

See LOCALS on page 12

Bckintime... Bckintime...

independence

HACKENSACK

The County of Bergen hosted a celebration in the piazza at the One Bergen County Plaza Administration Building on Monday, Aug. 14 in honor of the 76th anniversary of Pakistanʼs independence.

Pakistanʼs Independence Day is celebrated on Aug. 14 and commemorates the date in 1947 when Pakistan achieved independence and was declared a sovereign state, following the end of British rule in the region

See FIRST on page 11

Riley Building Revisited

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS HILLSDALE

ASCENECAPTURED in Hillsdale around 1908 shows the venerable Riley Building, at the corner of Broadway and Hillsdale Avenue, back when it was just a couple of years old.

At the time this main thoroughfare was not Broadway but rather Railroad Avenue, in the direction of Westwood and Summit Avenue in the direction of Woodcliff Lake, with downtown Hillsdale the dividing point between the two. Broadway came in 1923.

John H. Riley, a former freeholder and prominent Hillsdale citizen, had his namesake building constructed in 1906. A hotel

and saloon, it was optimally positioned to receive travelers arriving at the railroad station across the street. The Riley Building also contained storefronts rented out for retail.

In July 1906 a terrible thunderstorm caused damage all over Bergen County, including in Hillsdale, where Rileyʼs building, then under construction, was struck by lightning. The resulting fire was a major setback, but construction proceeded during August and the building was finished at the end of the summer

Riley began advertising for tenants in the classifieds in August 1906: “TO LET— Two new stores at Hillsdale, opposite station: 26 feet front by 45 feet deep. Plate glass front. Five rooms upstairs.”

In March 1907 it seems there were still

openings, with Riley advertising “FOR RENT—Gentlemenʼs furnishings store, drug store, barber shop and store for hardware

See BIT on page 6

Hillsdale’s DeMarco locks down biz-leadership honors

SCRANTON, PA

Joshua T. DeMarco of Hillsdale was among 17 members of The University of Scrantonʼs class of 2023 who graduated from its Robert L. McKeage Business Leadership Honors Program, which is one of Scranton's programs of excellence.

Students in this highly selective program explore the basic theories and concepts of

leadership through special seminars and courses in management, ethics, strategy and analysis, in addition to field trips to learn from top executives and projects in leadership, service and mentoring.

DeMarco graduated summa cum laude as a

business analytics major. He also was active with Beta Gamma Sigma, Beta Alpha Phi, junior year: officer of Operations & Analytics Club

Now he is a research analyst at Convergence Inc. in Norwalk, Conn.

Robert McKeage, Ph.D., associate professor of management, marketing and entrepreneurship, is director of the Universityʼs Business Leadership Honors Program.

In a first, county raises flag over Pakistan’s

Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III, right, presents a service award to Outstanding Community Member Shalah Shabbir. Photo via Amanda Karpinski

Advertised by John H. Riley, August 1906.

The Riley Building on Broadway in Hillsdale as it looked around 1908, when it was a hotel run by John H. Riley. The door on the corner led into his saloon.

DEMARCO

Burt McCarroll graduates USMMA

Burt Michael McCarroll of Emerson recently graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point, N.Y.

McCarroll, a student-athlete of Emersonʼs Class of 2019, earned a Bachelor of Science degree and a commission in the U.S. Armed Forces. He also earned a Merchant Marine officer license, qualifying him to serve as an officer on any ship in the U.S. flag merchant marine.

The United States Merchant Marine Academy is one of five U.S. federal service academies. It educates and graduates licensed Merchant Marine officers to serve the nation during peace and war.

In addition to the rigorous academic and physical requirements for admission, applicants must be nominated by their congressman or senator. McCarroll was nominated by Sens. Robert Menendez and Cory Booker.

USMMA graduates incur an obligation to serve the United States. The U.S. Flag Merchant Marine — manned exclusively by American mariners — is essential for securing the countryʼs com-

merce in peacetime and delivering warfighters, weapons, and military supplies in times of conflict.

The majority of “Kings Pointers” serve for eight years as Navy reservists in the Strategic Sealift Officer Program while working aboard U.S. flag vessels; others will serve on active duty in our nationʼs Armed Forces. By virtue of their elite training and real-world experience, graduates are ready to go on day one in service of American military strength and economic power.

As part of his four-year education, McCarroll spent one year training as a cadet aboard ocean going vessels.

The Academy welcomed Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks as the commencement speaker. Hicks told the graduates “Again and again throughout history, Americaʼs merchant mariners have delivered. And today, merchant mariners remain an indispensable component of our national defense, because they continue to deliver: to Europe, where more than 70 vessels have helped bring supplies and equipment to U.S. allies and partners after Russia once again invaded Ukraine; and to the IndoPacific, where multiple strategic sealift ships provide critical maritime prepositioning of U.S. military equipment and supplies”

Hicks said, “What so many of you will do as merchant mariners enables our ability to project power globally, to respond to crises and contingencies on short notice, and to campaign in support of joint operations.”

Dedicated during WWII, USMMA has served the nation in both peace and war. Learn more at WeAreTheUSMMA.com

Water safety demo at Old Mill Pool

The Woodcliff Lake Parks & Recreation Department invites all for a free water safety demonstration — what to do in a water emergency and how to be prepared — on Tuesday, Aug. 22 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Old Mill Pool, 1 Old Mill Road. For more information visit wclnj.com

WOLF NABS BBA FROM KUTZTOWN

Cameron J. Wolf of Emerson has been awarded a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Marketing from Kutztown University.

Wolf, a graduate of Emerson Jr./Sr. High School in 2019, moreover posted on social media recently that he is now an insurance account executive at Automatic Data Processing. He said, “I am beyond excited to begin

this new chapter in my career.”

Kutztown University conferred degrees for more than 1,060 students for the 2023 spring semester.

Founded in 1866, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania is a proud member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education on 289 acres nestled in the beautiful East Penn Valley in Berks County.

McCarroll

WOODCLIFF LAKE

HILLSDALE 125TH ANNIVERSARY LAWN SIGNS; EVENTS ON TAP

The borough is in the midst of a year-long celebration to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of this wonderful community. Lawn signs are available for $25 each. Get one for your residence or business by visiting https://hillsdale125thanniversary.com

While you're there, note upcoming events:

•Saturday, Sept. 23 — Hillsdale Fall Festival at Beechwood Park. (Hillsdale Recreation is looking for vendors, merchant sponsors, and advertisers for the annual Fall Festival.)

• Thursday, Nov. 30 —125th

PARK RIDGE NOTES

Mayor Keith Misciagna wrote residents on Aug. 11 with a slew of notes and updates. In the mayorʼs words:

Passing of Melville Beer I wanted to take a moment today to acknowledge the passing of one of our longtime residents, Melville Beer [Pascack Press obituaries, Aug. 14, 2023].

rington. Jake is moving up from the Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department Fire Reserve program and becoming a member firefighter.

Park Ridge is extremely privileged to have a great group of volunteers and residents who serve on the various boards and committees in our town.

Anniversary Gala, Seasons, 6–10 p.m. This includes dinner, open bar, and music by DJ Willie Wilson.

RSVP by Sept. 9.

Mel was a loving and devoted husband of 67 years to Helyn N. Beer. He was an artist, a hand engraver, a golfer, a sailor, a semi-pro hockey player, a drummer, a sports car enthusiast, and loved his sweets, especially chocolate.

He had a heart of gold, an easy smile, and a genuine love of people, which made him a pleasure to be with. He was a great listener and one of the nicest people you can ever come across. He made everyoneʼs day brighter.

Mel passed away on July 14, 2023 at the age of 94. I ask that we all take a minute to say a prayer for his family and friends, especially Helyn. He will be missed by us all.

Congratulations to firefighter

Jake Farrington

At our Mayor and Council meeting this past Tuesday, I had the pleasure of administering the Oath of Office to Jake Far-

For those interested to get involved with our Volunteer Fire Department, the Fire Cadet program trains members between the ages of 14 and 16 in basic firefighting to prepare them for the Fire Reserve, and later becoming a regular member of the department.

Jakeʼs brother Kyle is also an active member in the Fire Department, and both are the grandsons of John Hansen, who is a 62-year active firefighter and a past chief of the department.

I have often said we have the best volunteers in the county, if not the state, because we have the most dedicated and hardworking people. Thank you for all you do, and for the sacrifices you make to protect our community! We wish Jack the best of

Thanks to rec summer camp staff

Also, this week I had the pleasure of joining Recreation Director Liz Falkenstern to thank all the summer camp staff, from director James Hegybeli, assistant directors Alison Ciarletta and Alyssa Prisco, to all the camp counselors, counselors in training, crossing guards, and everyone else who worked together to have a successful Summer Camp!

Hometown Heroes program deadline Sept. 15

I am excited to announce our Hometown Hero program starting in Park Ridge. It is important that we all take time to appreciate all the brave men and women who are serving and have served our great country and for defending American values, especially those brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice… and the sacrifice of their families and loved ones.

This program is a living tribute to honor Park Ridge residents and former residents who have served or are serving in any branch of the military. The banners will be double-sided, 24” x 48” vinyl, hung throughout the Borough.

luck and thank him for volunteering his time and joining the Fire Department as a regular member.

Each will include a photo of the soldier in uniform, along with their name, branch, dates of service, conflict, rank, and any medals or accommodations. The name of the banner will be displayed at the bottom of the banner.

A sponsorship of $100 is required for each submission which will be used to purchase the banner. The borough will purchase the brackets and install. Applications are first-come, first-served with a deadline of submission by Sept. 15. For more information and submission forms, visit parkridgeboro.com

BIT:

From Page 4

business. Six-room apartments above. J.H. Riley, Hillsdale.”

There was another fire at the Riley Building in August 1910, with the cause unknown. The fire did about $5,000 worth of damage—equivalent to $160,000 today—and gutted the second floor of the hotel as well as two of the stores.

Salvatore Marsala purchased the building and ran the saloon for some time before turning to the hardware business in 1929. Marsala Hardware operates in the Riley Building to this day.

Park Ridge Summer Camp DJ and pizza party Photo: Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee/Gigi Fiji

— Kristin Beuscher is president of the Pascack Historical Society, Park Ridge.

‘It just makes no sense’ – Fits, starts on police, DPW HQs

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Mayor Peter Calamari told concerned Township Council members Aug. 14 that he would rather wait for two months to see what design options that architect Arcari Iovino comes up with for new police department space before going ahead with the planned $5 million new DPW building.

At the July meeting, the architect had recommended possibly co-housing police and public works operations in the new DPW facility, at an estimated $8.5 million cost, versus substantially less for onsite Town Hall police space renovations and expansion.

Several council members, including Tom Sears, cited a Pascack Press article that quoted Administrator Mark DiCarlo saying that no bid specs for a new DPW building would be issued until a final design was approved for new police department space. He wondered who granted DiCarlo the authority to make that decision.

Members questioned DiCarlo over why he made that statement and DiCarlo said that the council made no decision at a previous July meeting where architect Arcari Iovino presented several options for the council to choose from related to a reconfigured space for the police department, or a combined DPW–police department facility.

The architect was told by

Heavy metal

council in July to look into all possible options, with attention to expanding its existing space at the Town Hall and possibly expanding to the property line.

Sears said he thought the council gave approval for the DPW facility earlier and that was decided; however DiCarlo told him that the council made no decisions on design options presented by Arcari Iovino at the July meeting.

Following Sears expressing concerns about the delays, noting he was concerned with DPW

workers being without facilities for a longer period of time after having their building razed in 2022, Calamari told him that it made sense to wait a couple months and see what possible design options the architect can provide, including possibly combining the DPW and police operations.

“I see it a little differently,” said Calamari, noting that delaying a decision on both facilities by a couple months to view new architect designs may show that a police department could fit with the DPW or maybe not and instead fit better

alone at Town Hall.

Sears again questioned why the police department would possibly be combined with the new DPW facility when the council previously talked about expanding the police department space at Town Hall and inside the Town

Continued on page 23

‘4 SEASONS’ SUIT

‘4 Seasons’ strip mall applicant appeals ZBA’s 6–1 rejection as ‘capricious, arbitrary’ PAGE 14

PASCACKVALLEY

The Nam Knights of America (NKMC) Motorcycle Club recently visited the New Jersey Veterans Home at Paramus “to donate two big beautiful Weber Grills.”

Nam Knights supports veterans and law enforcement, who have lost their lives in the line of duty and to assist veterans and police officers in time of need.

The facility, on 23 acres, opened on Aug. 4, 1986. It has two

modern residential buildings, able to accommodate 336 residents, and two fenced-in garden areas. In the courtyard, near the main entrance, a monument stands in memory of those who served in World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.

Attending the presentation was Jack Quigley, founder; Fred Reiman, president; and Steve Mona, vice president, among other members.

Via Fred Di Tecco

Grills donated by the Nam Knights Motorcycle Club parent chapter to the New Jersey Veterans Home at Paramus.

Montclair State U. lauds locals on spring dean’s list

Montclair State University congratulates Red Hawks named to the spring 2023 Deanʼs List.

The Deanʼs List, issued after the close of the fall and spring semesters by the academic deans, gives recognition to students with a 3.50 or higher semester GPA if a minimum of 12 credits is earned in courses that contribute to the GPA and if there are no incomplete grades for that semester.

The following students from the Pascack Valley earned the distinction:

Emerson

Daniel Amoia, Nicole Biel, Diego

Caamano, Mehmet Celaj, Angelo

Desalvo, Daniel Granucci, Erica

McDonald, Ashleigh Mulligan, Giovanni Ramaci, Stephanie Seretis, and Ahmed Siddiqi.

Hillsdale

Stefano Bravi, Abigail Considine, Enes Dervishi, Owen Heller, Chris McGrath., Jeremy Monge, Daniela Obando, and Ariana Rodriguez.

Montvale

Michael Bease, Jake Bellmer, Michael Brinskele, Alyssa Brown, Alyssa DiPalma, Zoe Geanopulos, Nicholas Giannattasio, Ruoyi He, Jason Kaplun, Ethan Kosoy, Ally Lum, Catalina Morales, Mariah Ouellette, Emily Penza, and Ariellys Then.

Park Ridge

Nicholas DePasquale, Julia Rose Duardo, Gabrielle Ilic, Briana Jones, Kimberly Mahoney, Gabrielle Martin, Magen Sears,

Jordan Spagnola, and Jannal Vasoll.

River Vale

Marie Ayoub, Molly Heintze, James Leyva, Erica Masseria, Daniel Menendez, Sabrina Ruiz, Cayla Seferian, Labib Sharif, and Lauren Tordik.

Township of Washington

Jillian Boyle, Carly Coleman, Christina Dahdah, Dominick, Damato, Samuel Goldman, Taylor Hirstius, Giana Lakomy, Deb Myers, Anthony Rambaldi, Lianna Scherer, Red Stapleton, Ashley Di Tecco, Max Tripodi, and Dante Zuppichini.

Westwood

Anna Costello, Brendan P. Cox, Julian Domingo, Rufino Garcia, Raffi Karakashian, Ghazal Khouri, Sophie Lemanquais, Karen Mancuso-Strauser, Brian Misha, Elina Muller, Steven Paladino, Lauren Rojo-Sanchez, Brianna Scallo, Catherine Thaureaux, Joshua Tucker, and Sydney Winter.

Woodcliff Lake

Brianna Espindola, Payton Hiertz, Nora Khatami, Haley Meyerson, Luke Miniatis, and Robert Williamson.

COUNCIL MOVING VS. LANTERNFLIES

In addition to approving the minutes of the July 18 closed and public session minutes, the Aug. 9 special work and closed meeting minutes, and hearing various reports, the council passed a variety of ordinances:

• 23-23, providing for additional funding for the acquisition and installation of electric charging stations and related expenses and appropriating $3,500 therefor from Capital Surplus;

• 23-24, providing for rehabilitation of Berkeley Field and related expenses and appropriating $6,000 therefor from General Capital Fund Surplus and $8,000 From the Recreation Trust Fund;

• 23-25, supplementing Borough Code to add Chapter 306 “Small Wireless Facilities In The Right-Of-Way”; and

• 23-26, providing for acquisition of a generator for the Fire Department ladder truck and related expenses and appropriating $7,500 therefor from the General Capital Fund Surplus.

A number of resolutions were on the agenda as well. Some highlights:

•Chapter 159 – Clean Communities Grant;

• Chapter 159 – Spotted Lanternfly Chemical Control Grant (the state is providing local and county governments money to help them fight the spread of the invasive spotted lanternfly, up to $15,000 for municipalities subject to program availability, to cover costs of pesticides, equipment and labor used in abatement);

•Chapter 159 – National opioid settlement;

• Authorize hiring of solar consultant;

•Authorizing receipt of Bids for pistol range remediation Project;

• Authorizing hiring process for crossing guards;

• Authorizing borough administrator to sign lease agreement for police vehicle;

• Authorizing purchase of generator for Fire Department ladder truck;

•Fire Department matters of personnel;

•Approval of request to consume alcoholic beverages on public property for a birthday celebration.

• Authorizing repair and topdressing of Berkeley fields; and

•Authorizing annual contract for website services.

— Staff report

The price is $ 70 per person. The bus leaves the Senior Center at 9:15 a.m. Make checks out to the Emerson Seniors; no cash accepted. Questions? Call Jeanneann Scarano at (551) 404-7359 or Jo Monahan at (201) 265-1933.

WESTWOOD

The Emerson Seniors are headed to the Riverview Inn in Matamoras, Pa. on Thursday Sept. 21. Included are a luncheon with free beer and wine, and a nightclub-style show starring JJ Russell.

Emerson Seniors to Riverview Inn — sign up!

Pieces: Ann Van Hine on faith, family, and Sept. 11

resilience of a woman, a family, and a nation.

Her poignant reflections help answer:

• How do you cope when life lies in pieces around you?

• How do you begin to rebuild in the face of all that has been lost?

• How do you commemorate the past while creating space for your future?

Thoughts from Annʼs blog

On a blog she maintains on annvanhine.com. Van Hine shared her impression, Aug 18, 2022, of a milestone in her story of 9/11.

“The 9/11 Tribute Museum [not The National September 11 Memorial and Museum] closed its doors on Wednesday. The impact volunteering with them has had on my life is significant. I can honestly say that volunteering with Tribute and the opportunities afforded to me changed my life.

In ʻPieces Falling: Navigating 9/11 with faith, family and the FDNYʼI shared how it all started:

“That fall, I received information about a volunteer opportunity that piqued my interest. The September 11 Families Association was looking for docents to share their September 11 stories. To be honest I had never heard the word docent before, so I looked it up in the dictionary. It means museum guide.

Even though I was apprehensive, I decided to give volunteering a try.

I called to find out more information.

“You need to come in for an interview, and then there is a training session,” said Rachel, the docent coordinator.

I wasnʼt sure if my lack of knowledge about the World Trade Center would be a problem or not. I had only been to the WTC twice in my entire life. Once in my late teens I had taken the PATH train into the WTC, and on July 4,1976, Bruce and I visited the observation deck of Two WTC with his sister and husband.

I also felt I barely knew anything about September 11, 2001, besides my own story.

What was I thinking?

Actually, I knew exactly what I was thinking. The 9/11 Tribute Centerʼs mission was “person to person” history. I knew I could tell Bruceʼs and my story. I had done that in churches and at ladiesʼgroups. This was a whole new thing, but I wanted to try.

A few weeks after the interview, I headed back into Lower Manhattan for a two-day training workshop. As I drove to the training, I felt like this could be a mistake.

Lord, I am willing to try this, but I need a sign or something. Please.

As I timidly entered the room, I scanned faces looking for Rachel, the only person I had met before. Wait! Thatʼs Bruceʼs captain from Squad 41. Someone I know. A nod from God.

Lee Ielpi, the founder of 9/11 Tribute Center, shared his story and vision. “Iʼm retired Fire Department. My son Jonathan was killed on 9/11. I had spoken to him early on September 11 as he was heading to his firehouse. Eventually I would head to the site to look for him.”

Lee shared about the band of dads—a group of retired firefighters who searched for their firefighter sons—and of finding Jonathanʼs body in early December 2001. His story was powerful.

Lee went on to state his reason for starting Tribute—to tell the stories. When he had visited the site in recent months, he had noticed many tourists and random people sharing misinformation and incorrect facts about the attacks. He wondered what could happen if the people who had first–hand information had the opportunity to share their perspective. And the 9/11 Tribute Center was born.

The training was proceeding nicely when a staff member mentioned that the volunteers shouldnʼt get political. Thatʼs not a problem.

Then a fellow trainee added, “You shouldnʼt get too religious either.” That could be a problem.”

I thought about the night I spent in the hotel near Meghanʼs college, when I wept with gratitude at Godʼs protection over my daughters despite all that we had lost. I thought about

Emilyʼs wedding, and how God made ways in all our lives when there appeared to be no way.

I tentatively raised my hand. “If we arenʼt allowed to mention God, I will respect that, but to tell my story I need to mention God because God is a big part of my story.”

Rachel said, “If God is your story, you can mention God.” Another big nod from God.

Sixteen years later, I still have vivid memories of that training session. I was so nervous. It felt like I was running with the big kids and that feeling happened time and time again as numerous opportunities came my way. As I have pondered those experiences over the last few days I am awed. Simply awed. Leading walking tours, speaking to school groups, representing Tribute at various events has been a priceless gift. But by far the greatest gift has been the people I have met. Whether it was only for the hour or

so we spent together on a tour or in an education program or the moments we chatted before or after a tour or the amazing TLA adventures, I am changed because we shared that time.

Well done, 9/11 Tribute Museum, well done and thank you.

Get your copy

Copies of “Pieces Falling: Navigating 9/11 with Faith, Family & The FDNY” will be available for purchase at the event, with proceeds benefiting the Friends of the Westwood Library. Light refreshments will be served. To register, visit westwoodpubliclibrary.org

The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood works to bring together a diverse group of women in an inclusive environment who, through fellowship, volunteerism, and leadership, engage in hyper-local philanthropy to serve the greater Westwood community.

For more information write westwoodcontemporaries@gmail.com and visit instagram.com/westwoodcontemporaries

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Giulio’s Restaurant: Perfect for private parties

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

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

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 years of world class experience and passion for culinary creations is evident in each and every of his signature dishes. Giulioʼs Restaurant creates contemporary dishes with only the finest and freshest ingredients. Visit for a drink in the full-

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

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

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

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

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

County fêtes Pakistan Independence Day

with the Indian Independence Act. Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco, III issued a proclamation recognizing Aug. 14, 2023, as Independence Day of Pakistan.

The proclamation and a Key to the County were presented to Acting Consul General of Pakistan in New York, the Honorable Nawab Adil Khan, who also delivered remarks. Dr Azfar Chak of Paramus served as the eventʼs keynote speaker.

Greeting remarks were presented by District 37 Assemblywoman Shama Haider

The event featured vocal performances by Sherjan Ahmad and a Bhangra dance by the Gabru Punjab Group.

The County of Bergen also presented Pakistan Independence Day Service Awards to members of the community: Afsheen Akbar, Dr. Ghazal Arshad, Ghazala Shahid Chohan, Asad Gilani, Syed M. Tahir, and Shalah Shabbir.

The event culminated in the raising of the Pakistani flag. Refreshments were donated by various Bergen County restaurants and organizations.

—Via Amanda Karpinski

The Gabru Punjab Group performs a Bhangra Dance at the County of Bergen’s celebration, on Monday, Aug. 14, in honor of the 76th anniversary of Pakistan’s independence.

Photo via Amanda Karpinski

From Page 4 Bergen County Commissioner Chair Pro Tempore Dr. Joan Voss, Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Silna Zur, Bergen County Commissioner Vice Chairwoman Germaine Ortiz, Bergen County Clerk John Hogan, Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco, III, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, Bergen County Commissioner Mary Amoroso, and District 37 Assemblywoman Shama Haider stand with 2023 Pakistan Outstanding Community Service Contribution Honorees. Photo via Amanda Karpinski

Locals join League of Women Voters board, eye on Nov. 7

From Page 3

and get involved in voter services and to meet other interested residents to learn about issues important to you and your com-

munity.”

Coming Up: Voters Service

Education

The LWVNV renewed its commitment to Voters Service, a

core activity of the League, to provide voters with non-partisan information in preparation of the General Election in November.

The LWVNVʼs activities will include conducting voter registration drives, responding to citizensʼrequests to schedule local candidate forums, and moderating candidate forums with trained moderators.

Information about candidates will be available on the League of Women Votersʼnonpartisan website, VOTE411.org, launched in 2006.

Membership in the League is open to both men and women, who are at least 16 years of age and supportive of its mission.

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley draws members from these 29 municipalities in Bergen County: Alpine, Bergenfield, Cliffside Park, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Dumont, Edgewater, Emerson, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Fort Lee, Hackensack, Harrington Park, Haworth, Hillsdale, Leonia, Montvale, New Milford, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tap-

pan, Park Ridge, River Vale, Rockleigh, Tenafly, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake.

For moree information about the LWVNV, membership or to get involved in Voter Services activities, contact lwvnorthernvalley@gmail.com. Learn more about the League on the organizationʼs website at bit.ly/LWVNVinformation

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley, a chapter of the League of Women Voters (LWV), is a non-partisan, grassroots civic organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

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

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

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley was founded in 1946 as the League of Women Voters of Closter. By 1964, it included 11 municipalities in the Northern Valley and was renamed the League of Women Voters of Northern Valley.

Over the decades, the chapter expanded to encompass 29 municipalities.

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

Some 800 Archdiocese youth see pope in Portugal

Approximately 800 young people from the Archdiocese of Newark joined more than 1 million Catholics from across the globe Aug. 1–6 in Lisbon, Portugal, for the World Youth Day festival, the Churchʼs semiregular gathering meant to strengthen young adultsʼ faith and unity.

The archdiocesan representatives — who included 43 scholarship recipients aged 18–35 and about 700 members of the Neocate chumenal Way faith formation program — got to see Pope Francis t wice during their pilgrimage, which included trips to multiple Portuguese and Spanish holy sites.

On one such visit, the pilgrims danced for joy alongside fellow Catholics from Mexico, Chile, Italy, and Austria outside the Cathedral of Santiago in Compostela, Spain.

During another, they climbed over 500 stairs to pray at the top of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Tenõ es, Portugal, a feat that some accomplished barefoot.

One of the most significant parts of the trip occurred when the pilgrims brought several elderly and sick residents of a local nursing home to the Sanctuary of Fátima in Fátima, Portugal. Many of these citizens had not left their building in at least a decade, so the youths enjoyed brightening their day as they attended Mass at the sanctuary together.

Afterward, they participated in

a candlelight procession in Fátima along with hundreds of thousands of other pilgrims.

Matt Olivo, a parishioner of Old Tappanʼs St. Pius X Parish, carried the processional cross.

“Weʼve had such an amazing time,” said Father Kevin Kilgore, pastor of St. Pius X Parish, who coled the pilgrimage of scholarship recipients with Montclair State University campus minister Ricardo Casimiro. “Lives have been changed. We look forward to the future, to evangelizing this generation, which has truly been transformed.”

Initiated by Pope St. John Paul

II in 1984, World Youth Day is held by the Catholic Church every two to three years in cities worldwide. This y earʼs festival saw Pope Francis pray for peace at the Sanctuary of Fátima, hear confessions from several youths, and remind a large gathering that “There is room for everyone in the Church.”

The event culminated in a closing Mass in Lisbon at which the pope urged all young people to “love like Jesus, listen to Christ, and be unafraid to change the world.” He also revealed that the next World Youth Day will occur in Seoul, South Korea, in 2027.

The Archdiocese of Newark serves 1.3 million Catholics throughout Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Union counties. The Archdiocese has 212 parishes, 73 Catholic schools, and many missions and ministries.

Hundreds of Masses are celebrated in more than a dozen languages each week. Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., the sixth archbishop of Newark, leads the Archdiocese with four auxiliary bishops.

Together, they serve the northern New Jersey community through faith, education, and social services. For more information, visit rcan.org

Archdiocese of Newark parishioners visit the Garden of Santa Barbara in Braga,Portugal,during their pilgrimage to the Catholic Church's World Youth Day festival,Aug.1–6. Photos courtesy of the Archdiocese of Newark

Some Archdiocese of Newark parishioners climb over 500 steps barefoot to pray at the top of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Tenões,Portugal,Aug.1–6,2023.

Saved from trash: an 18K gold keepsake of a love story

Greetings to you, Jon! Ihope you can help us w ith this pin that has been in my family for a very long time.

About a week ago my wife was cleaning out our storage space and found this pin in an old wooden match box. She was getting ready to put this pin in the garbage can with the other stuff. I grabbed it and remembered your column. After all these years, I would like to know what it is and what value it has, if any Mark, River Vale

Senior appraiser Jon Felz of R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. answers yourquestions on fine art,American coins,and great antiques.Send your questions and photos to rzmantique@aol.com

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

your medal because I to own one myself. I even have the box that it came in.

You possess a rare and important Ulysses S. Grant Municipal Monument Committee medal, solid 18K gold, produced by Tiffany & Co. in 1897.

Hi, Mark!

Do I have a surprise for you!

How fortunate that you prevented this rare medal from being thrown in the waste. I can easily identify

The medal features the profile of President Grant (1869–1877) over white and blue enamel. The medal is in the shape of Grantʼs monument, on Riverside Drive and West 122nd Street in New York City.

When Grant died, in July 1885, the mayor of New York City sent a telegram to Grantʼs wife,

BOROUGH OFFERS HIGH GROUND FOR VACAY PARKING

Attention flood-prone residents: The Borough of Hillsdale is offering the parking lot between Wendyʼs and Chipotle for you to park your cars if you are planning on going away on vacation. The higher ground should help your vehicle avoid flooding. Notify the police department at (201) 664-4200 so they can note your license plate, should you want to take advantage of this offer.

Julia, offering a burial ground for both. Keep in mind Grant was a general in the United States Army — he was Commanding General of the Union Army, and later briefly the U.S. Secretary of War — and was entitled to be buried in a military cemetery such as West Point.

The problem was, Grantʼs only wish was to be buried with his wife. That meant he could not be buried in a military cemetery as, at that time, women were not permitted to be buried in United States military cemeteries.

Julia wrote to prominent New Yorkers requesting monetary sup-

port to build this monument. Contributors were given the medal that you currently possess.

As to the value of this medal, one recently sold at Heritage Auction for $3,000.

Thank you for sharing this wonderful piece of American history with our readers.

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.

MOVING? DOWNSIZING?

A reader’s “rare and important” Ulysses S.Grant Municipal Monument Committee medal,made of solid 18K gold,and produced by Tiffany & Co.in 1897. Reader photo

Proof from history that great things often come in small packages. Jon Felz photos

HILLSDALE

‘4 Seasons’ strip mall applicant appeals ZBA’s 6–1 rejection

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

The attorney for the proposed Four Seasons Marketplace, which the Zoning Board of Adjustment rejected on May 16 after six hearings, has appealed in Superior Court.

Following the ZBAʼs 6-1 decision, shooting down a proposed 17,100-square-foot retail shopping plaza at Washington Avenue and Pascack Road, applicant 660 Pascack Realty LLC said it was weighing its options.

Following the memorialization of the ZBA denial June 20 and publication, the applicant had 45 days to appeal. It now has done so, coming out fighting to reverse the ZBAʼs decision on allegations that the rejection was “arbitrary, capricious and unreasonable.”

The proposed site, also called Block 2110, lots 6–11, comprises 2.46 acres, occupied by five houses, three of which are vacant and dilapidated.

Neighbors of the proposed project rejoiced on the ZBA handing down its decision, and said perseverence had paid off.

(See “Nope! Zoning Board

Rejects Strip Mall By 6-1 Vote, Michael Olohan, May 22, 2023, Pascack Press.)

We reached out to applicant attorney Bruce Whitaker and ZBA attorney Gary Giannantonio for comment for this story.

The civil complaint in lieu of prerogative writ, filed Aug. 4, alleges four counts:

“The actions and decisions of the Townshipʼs Zoning Board of Adjustment relative to plaintiffʼs request for variance relief together with preliminary and final site plan approval and soil movement approval were arbitrary, capricious and unreasonable and therefore should be declared invalid and should be set aside and reversed,” reads the first of four counts filed by Bruce Whitaker, of McDonnell & Whitaker, Ramsey.

The complaint alleges the boardʼs denial “was contrary to the sufficient proof provided by the plaintiffʼs expert witnesses to justify the use variances and related bulk variances and waiver requests.”

The second count charges the boardʼs procedure in denying the application “is contrary to the proper procedures to be employed by a zoning board of adjustment for rendering a decision.”

The third count charges that the memorializing resolution that was adopted “is not based upon the proofs provided. The resolution adopted is not based upon the record that was established by the plaintiff.”

The fourth count alleges that the “board membersʼactions and the resolution itself contradicts the proofs that were admitted which were not contradicted by any of the Boardʼs professionals. The boardʼs decision lacks any foundation or basis for a denial, and con-

stitutes an arbitrary, capricious and unreasonable action.”

The complaint is backed by 28 pages of attachments, including the memorializing resolution approved on June 20. That resolution is on the ZBAʼs website.

Editorʼs note: The Township Council took this matter up in closed session on Aug. 14. According to a former councilman commenting on a town public affairs Facebook group, “Although the agenda is silent on it, the liti-

gation, including docket and parties, should be disclosed on the closed session resolution. I inquired during a break and [town] attorney [Kenneth] Poller confirmed the party involved.”

Commenters said “The question becomes how much money is the town council willing to spend in order to defend the denial,” and “Seasons and their Realty company need to cool their jets, and our town must listen to its people who pay taxes and support this town.”

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: ‘Natural ways to help with ADD/ADHD’

Childhood developmental delays such as autism, dyslexia, Tourettes, Aspergerʼs, and ADD/ADHD can typically be helped by addressing these two major brain problems: an imbalance in the frontal cortex resulting in issues with communication between the left and right brain, as well as retention of primitive reflexes. Today we are going to look more

deeply into Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Such issues often lead to these children having trouble in school or studying, or being seen as disruptive in classes. Some of these children may doodle in class, which may not necessarily be disrespectful to the teacher, but helps them to keep focus.

The first step to diagnosing these conditions is to evaluate the nervous system and the frontal cortex of the brain. It is vital to check for the retention of primitive reflexes because many children with

ADD/ADHD typically still express primitive reflexes well after 1 year of age.

Kaplan Brain & Body will be offering primitive reflex evaluations of your children for only $21 (normally $500).

Functional neurology, primit ive reflex remediation exercises, and a therapy called neurofeedback can be extremely beneficial for people who have anxiety, ADD or ADHD.

In addition to boosting the brain with neurofeedback, people with ADD, and especially ADHD, need plenty of movement throughout the day. Prolonged sitting is

harmful for an underdeveloped brain, so I recommend taking “movement breaks” every 30–50 minutes.

We all remember days of going out to play with friends all day, then when the streetlights came on we ran home for a nice homecooked dinner. We spent time outside in the sun and in nature and had companionship. All of these things are good for the frontal cortex. Fresh food is also important –people with ADD/ADHD should also avoid processed foods, sugar, stimulants, caffeine, juices, food dyes, and preservatives.

I will be live on the radio every Saturday from 8 to 9 a.m. hosting a show called “Boost Your Brain Power” on AM 970 The Answer and from 2 to 3 p.m. on AM 710 WOR. Tune in if you want to learn about the best natural ways to improve your brain function.

The second step is to take action immediately as a childʼs brain only has a certain amount of time to be rewired. Many children who complain of brain fog, trouble with focus, low energy, headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances, poor

memory, decreased motivation, depression, or anxiety, do not realize that their neurological problems may be related to their ADD/ADHD.

Besides the primitive reflex evaluation, the best way to determine this is to do a neurological evaluation called a VNG to measure each area of the brain to see how it is functioning and what areas need the most help. This is normally $500 at my Emerson office, but if you respond by the end of August, you can receive the entire test for only $21.

The next best test is qEEG brain mapping, which is a noninvasive test that measures your brain waves to determine any damaged areas. This test is also normally $500 and now you can receive this entire test for only $21 as well. To top it off, the first seven people that sign up get all three tests (normally a total of $1,500) for $63 by mentioning this article and scheduling in August.

Call (201) 261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to set up your initial evaluation. Looking forward to helping you.

Reflecting excellence

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Signal boosting from Facebook, Aug. 16: “Huge thank you to Mr Danny, Mr. Raymundo and our summer helpers Max and A.J. for all the hard work during the hot summer months to make our school sparkle and ready for September! Look at those shiny floors!”

Westwood Regional School District

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

SAVVY

SENIOR: Green Funeral 411

BY JIMMILLER

Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about green funeral options? At age 80, I would like to plan my funeral and make it as natural as possible.

—Old Environmentalist Dear Environmentalist,

Great question! Green funeral options are becoming increasingly popular in the United States as more and more Americans are looking for environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional funerals. Hereʼs what you should know about “green burial” and “green cremation” options, along with some tips to help you locate services in your area.

Green Burial

If you wish to be buried, a green/natural burial will minimize the environmental impact by forgoing the embalming chemicals (which is not required by law), traditional casket and concrete vault. Instead, youʼll be buried in either a biodegradable container or shroud with no vault, and you wonʼt be embalmed. This allows the body to decompose naturally and become part of the earth.

If you want to temporarily preserve the body for viewing or a memorial service, instead of embalming, you can request dry ice or Techni ice, a refrigeration

unit, or a nontoxic embalming agent.

Youʼll also be happy to know that green burials are much cheaper than traditional funerals, which average around $8,000 in 2023. By scrapping the coffin, vault and embalming, which are expensive, youʼll save yourself several thousand dollars on your funeral costs.

To find green burial services in your area, a good first step is to see if thereʼs a certified green funeral home in your area and contact them. The Green Burial Council offers an online directory of providers and other resources at GreenBurialCouncil.org.

If there isnʼt one nearby, your next step is to contact several traditional funeral homes to see if they offer green funeral service options – many do.

Youʼll also need to find a green cemetery. There are nearly 100 green cemeteries throughout the U.S., along with more than 300 traditional (hybrid) cemeteries that offer green burials too. To find them, the New Hampshire Funeral Resources, Education and Advocacy website has a list at NHfuneral.org. Or, if you own rural property you may be able to have a home burial there, if your state and county allow it.

If, however, there are no green cemeteries nearby you can still make your burial more environmentally friendly by not being embalmed. And, if the cemetery allows, using a biodegradable casket or shroud and skipping the vault. If a vault is required, ask to

have holes drilled in the bottom, or use a concrete grave box with an open bottom so the body can return to the earth.

Green Cremation

If you would rather be cremated, you have green choices here too. While cremation has always been touted as being more eco-friendly than a typical burial, a traditional cremation, which uses heat to incinerate the body, does emit greenhouse gases.

A green cremation, however, uses water and potassium hydroxide to reduce a deceased body to its basic element of bone ash within a few hours. This green technique, which is known as alkaline hydrolysis, is a little more expensive than traditional cremation but, unfortunately, itʼs not legal in every state. Contact some local funeral providers to find out if this is available in your area, or Google “alkaline hydrolysis cremation” followed by your city and state.

Another green consideration is deciding what to do with the remains. Instead of scattering, which can harm the environment, there is a wide variety of biodegradable urns that dissolve into the earth or water, and memorial urns that will growa plant or tree in with your ashes.

Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior,P.O.Box 5443,Norman, OK 73070,or visit SavvySenior.org.

Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior”book.

Park Ridge volunteer opportunities

Park Ridge offers plenty of volunteer opportunities. Here are afew suggested by Mayor Keith Misiciagna on Aug. 4

PKRG-TV

Park Ridge is extremely lucky to have excellent broadcast TV coverage of PRHS sports events. However, in order to continue this top-notch coverage, PKRG-TV needs new volunteers

‘Forever grateful’

to help with filming football, basketball, volleyball and other local sports in order to continue to bring such programs to our community. If you haveenjoyed seeing your kidsʼevents or you are Park Ridge athlete alumni yourself and have any time to give, please consider volunteering. Without volunteers, coverage cannot continue. All are welcome, no experience is required, and cam-

era training will be provided. Write pkrg@parkridgeboro.com

Tri-Boro Ambulance Corps

Hereʼs an excellent opportunity to help your community

The Tri-Boro Ambulance needs volunteers. If you or someone you know is interested, call (201) 391-2332.

Recreation Department seeks students

The Park Ridge Recreation Department is looking for middle school and high school students to help out with events. This is a great way to earn community service hours. Contact the rec department to join the team: call (201) 573-1800 ext. 521 or write recreation@parkridgeboro.com

Townwide Garage Sale Oct 14.

The Park Ridge Rec Annual Townwide Garage Sale is set! Join your neighbors for this fun event. For information call (201) 573-1800 ext. 521 or write lfalkenstern@parkridgeboro.com

PASCACK VALLEY

“This book is dedicated to the loving memory of Katie Fascianoʼs daughter Elizabeth. It is a story of faith, hope, love, community support, and healing. Elizabeth had a short life with manytrials, but despite it all, she was always a beacon of light.”

Fasciano, of Westwood, adds, in promoting her book, “This is a story of resilience, determination, and hope. Never give up hope.”

Fans have been celebrating “Never Give Up Hope:The Little Girl Who Changed the World” (2023) self-published by Fasciano, who is, according to grief coach and podcaster Jenny Dilts, “a warrior who discovered Seimei healing during her young daughterʼs battle with cancer.”

Fasciano connected with PascackPress on her round of local readings, spreading a message of inspiration and timeless love.

She said, “I am a mom of three girls. My eldest battled cancer starting at 13 months old. She battled for 6 1⁄ 2 years, off and on. Through this journey I learned how to advocate for my daughter. I found Seimei [pronounced say-may] during her fifth year of her can-

cer battle. Seimei [“a non-touch Japanese healing system”] was incredible in helping my daughter. It helped reduce her anxiety in route to a hospital procedure, it helped her to swallowagain, and so much more.”

She said, “Being part of the Seimei community allowed me to find me again. I had lost myself first as a wife, then as a mother, and lastly as a 24/7 caregiver to my sick child. I am forever grateful for finding Seimei and for all the positive things it has done in my life and the lives of those around me.”

Reviews are top-shelf. Hereʼs a typical one, from Meg Scinto:

“ʻNever GiveUp Hopeʼ is a book about a motherʼs fierce love for her child, precious Elizabeth, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor early in her life. Katie is that mom whose love compelled her to summon the courage, strength and faith and relive the most difficult and challenging events in her life so she could share Elizabethʼs story with others.

“Her intent — that all who learn the story will be inspired —has clearly been achieved in these pages.”

Katie Fasciano photo

Westwood author Katie Fasciano on tour signing books in the Pascack Valley,promoting “a story of resilience,determination,and hope. Never give up hope.”

Kid’s Trout Kid’s Trout

31th ANNUALFISHING CONTEST

Becker Funeral Home

Borough Of Hillsdale

Borough Of Westwood

Burton Agency

Dutra Sewer And Water

ETD Discount Tire Service

HoHoKus PBALocal 353

Preppy Pampered Pups

Richard Baudistel

Stein &Son Excavating

Temco Air Conditioning

Westwood Elks 1562

Hillsdale Fire Department

American Legion Post 162

Belsky Museum Closter NJ

Billy Meyer

Bob Hitscherich Esq.

Brian & Danielle Stewart & Family

Bruno Taverone Painting

BTSpecialties

Burke Built Construction

C. Kirk Photography

Car Care Specialties

Carl Feurbach Painting

Carlo Camerini

Cindy Kirk

Correri Family

Davis Sport Shop

Daylight Design (Skylights)

Debra Ginetto

Diana Frassa

Domani Ristorante Italiano

Dr. Galitsis & Bovino LLC

F&S Friendly Service

Falasca Friendly Service

The Game Zone

Heiser Family

Heimer Electric

In Memory of Rich Correri

In Memory of Ryan Shoop

J. Misha Irrigation

James Widowski

Jewelers Work Bench

Jim & Gina DePalma

Jim Frantin Plumbing

Joe Burns

John & Helanae Cangelosi

John & Karen Kirk & Family

John Hering Painting

John P. Cangelosi

John Sayers Construction

John Widowski

Judy Sappah

Ken Bauer Kitchens

The Cammerato Family

The Arigot Family

Kurt Wolckenhauer

Lou’s Tavern

Luciano Family

Luxury Utensils

M&M Automotive

Marsala Hardware

Marty Seitz

Mike & Jill Dutra & Family

Mike Travis Jr.

Norman Hodges

Paramus PBA

Pascack Auto Body

Pascack Dental

Pasquino Family

Pat Feuerbach

Pat Graham

Patrick Kirk

Patty Huges

Pentland Graphics

Pinke Brown Families

Reigning Cats & Dogs

Ricciardi Brothers

Goens Family

Sgt Stewart Great Catch Award

Shave Bar & Barber Shop

Sons of American Legion Hillsdale

Steele Family

Steve Adrian

Streams of Dreams

Tim Donaldson

Timmy’s Service Center

Total Tee & Signs

Vinler Electric

Winkler Painting

Hillsdale DPW

Westwood DPW

In Memory of Kenny Cardaci

John Marin

Veolia Water

St. John’s

In Memory of Evelyn Hawken

Mayor John Ruocco

In Memory of Joan D’Alessandro

Trash-It

All American Chimney

Steve’s Painting

M&M Supplies

Patty’s Bay Marina

Jackie Lind Caldwell Realty

Mayor Arroyo

Gary Burkmeister

Margaret McDonough

M&M Dock King

Daly Family

Park Ridge Dunkin Donuts

John Cabrera

Members: Rick Winkler, Carl Feuerbach, John Hering, Tom Kirk III, Mike Travis, Thomas Kirk Jr., Bill Tristram, Curt Briscoe, Frank Maniaci, Nick Luciano, Brenda Kirk & Mike Smyth

Thanks to all who have made our contests so successful over the years by giving their time and donations.

The 2023 contest was in memory of Rich Correri.

SIX PRIORITIES FOR THE SANDWICH GENERATION

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

and still save enough for retirement. The demands often compete with one another—which is why setting clear priorities is so important.

ERIC KOHLMEIER

The “Sandwich Generation”— adults caring for aging parents as well as children—faces several stressful challenges that come from trying to juggle everyoneʼs needs.

One of those top stressors: finances, such as how to cover education and health care costs

Here are six tips for setting those priorities to help you deliver the support your loved ones need—without shortchanging yourself.

•Take care of your future first. Saving enough for retirement should be your top priority. You have to take care of your needs before you help your parents and your children.

• Create or update your investment plan. Create an investment plan that will help you balance your financial goals with the needs of your children and parents. Review your budget, analyze your expenses, and set savings targets to help you prioritize planning for an expense, such as college costs or long-term care for your parents.

•Review your insurance coverage. Protecting your income is always a good idea, but itʼs even more important when you have two generations depending on

you. Make sure you have enough life insurance in case something happens to you to pay off your mortgage and other debt, and to help cover the future living expenses of your dependents.

And donʼt forget disability insurance: More than a quarter of todayʼs 20-year-olds will become disabled before they retire, according to the Council for Disability Awareness.

•Check in on your parentsʼ financial health. Though it might seem awkward, talk to your parents about their wishes for the future and their financial health. What financial assets and expenses do they have? How do they plan to meet their financial obligations? Do they have a plan to cover the costs of long-term care? This conversation can help you determine how much financial support you will need to provide.

Also, make sureyour parents have done adequate estate planning, and ask for copies of their will or trust, durable power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive. Make sure your own estate-planning documents are complete and updated as well.

•Consider reducing financial support for grown children. Many parents still help their grown children with their finances—sometimes even to their detriment. Many young Baby Boomers are still paying their kidsʼexpenses, cell phone bill, or car insurance. If this is the case for you, talk with your

children about the steps they can take to start becoming more financially independent.

•Look for ways to help reduce your taxes. In some cases, you may be able to claim your aging parents as dependents. Also check with a tax advisor to see if their medical expenses qualify as a tax deduction. Another way that may benefit your financial bottom line is to set up a 529 Plan for your childrenʼs education expenses.

Wells Fargo Advisors is not a tax or legal advisor.

All investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing in a 529 savings plan.

T he official statement, which contains this and other information, can be obtained by calling your financial advisor. Read it carefully before you invest.

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.

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

© 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR #0119-03128.

Sometimes even good people get into bad trouble...a mistake in judgement...a careless moment...an act out of desperation, and before you know it you find yourself with serious legal problems. This can be frightening for most of us. One thing for sure...those problems won’t go away by themselves, and without proper legal representation they may even get worse.

Our attorneys handle situations like yours on a daily basis and are prepared to help you get the best possible results whether you are faced with a civil matter, a criminal matter or whether you are trying to have an earlier charge, arrest or conviction expunged.

Local: Emerson buckles up for rockin’ August concerts

Mayorʼs Wellness Campaign, a statewide initiative to promote healthful and active lifestyles, including body, mind and spirit.

Mayor Danielle DiPaola wrote Pascack Press on Aug. 14 to praise generous c ontributions from Richʼs Automotive, Avoʼs Elegant Jewelers, K-9 Resorts and Kuiken Brothers, which helped fund the event at no taxpayer expense.

She said The Emerson Project is slated to perform on Aug. 23; Beauty & The Grease performs on Aug. 30.

Meet the bands

• Steven Connolly says on his Instagram ( stevenconnollysr22) that heʼs a “musician, guitarist, singer, songwriter, cover songs available for hire. (Husband and father too, but that part is not for hire.”)

Kurt was already playing with several regional bands and John had played in High school, but hadnʼt played in over 25 years. John approached Kurt and suggested that they get together with Peter Griffin (Emerson Class of ʼ77) and jam for fun.”

The band says, “With John on guitar, Kurt on bass, and Peter on drums, the trio got together in the summer of 2017 in a studio in West Paterson and started jamming on classic rock tunes. Eventually, the decision was made, ʻLetʼs play out,ʼ and the trio added Bob Carroll on guitar. The band started playing out in early 2018 focusing on classic party rock in northern New Jersey.”

Griffin left the band for personal reasons. George Schaefer took on the role of drummer.

The band says, “Each member of Beauty & The Grease draws from rich experiences and unique styles to create a memorable experience that will take you back, and lift you up.”

Theresa, band leader and singer, is a former member of The Poni-Tails and The Chaperones, and “captivates the audience with a powerful soulful voice.”

Butch, lead guitarist, “has

more than 20 yearsʼexperience in creating the pinnacle sound of ʼ50s and ʼ60s doo-wop and rock.”

Alan Dodge, drummer and singer, “is the cohesive element of the band.”

Bass player Don Biller “is all-encompassing — the foundation for which the rhythm section and the band can ride on.”

DiPaola told Pascack Press, “As ʻthe family townʼof Bergen

County, itʼs great when we can bring people together at our beautiful Borough Hall to showcase our incredible local talent.” Shows start at 7 p.m. on the front lawn of Emerson Borough Hall. For your comfort, bring chairs or a blanket. For more information from the Borough of Emerson, visit emersonnj.org, stop by Borough Hall at 146 Linwood Ave., or call (201) 262-6086.

Bocce, more, to McKinley Park

Westwood Recreation is pleased to announce that thereʼs a whole new ball game coming to town this summer.

Working with Westwood For All Ages, Westwood Recreationʼs Forever Young program will be the recipient of a grant used for new age-friendly recreation additions to McKinley Park.

• The Emerson Project (youʼll find it on Facebook as EmersonProjectBand ) gives its bio this way: “In late 2015 the Emerson High School Class of ʼ75 had a reunion where John Scaffa and Kurt Colon attended.

• Beauty & The Grease (watch for updates at beautyandthegrease.com) says “We are a classic doo-wop ʼ50s ʼ60s and ʼ70s band that authentically captures the sound and emotion of the golden era of Rock ʻnʼRoll. Our show is always live. Vocals and music are never assisted with tracks.”

The first addition to be unveiled is the new bocce ball court, which was recently completed with assistance from the Westwood Department of Public Works.

Recreation Director Gary Buchheister told Pascack Press on Aug. 4 that in addition to it being age-friendly, the court is wheelchair accessible.”

Bocce is one of the most widely played ball sports in the world. Itʼs one of the oldest yard games, with the modern version originating in Italy The game is played with eight weighted balls aimed at a smaller target ball, or pallino. The object is to earn points by getting closer to the pallino than your opponent does. The sport is similar to British lawn bowling. With easy-to-follow rules, people of all ages and skill levels can play.

Buchheister said residents can bring their own bocce ball sets to the court or register with the Recreation Department via Community Pass to receive a code to borrow equipment, which will be stored on-site. Register at https://register.communitypass.net/w estwood Buchheister said improvements will include new benches

and game tables. He said the goal is “to create a dedicated agefriendly recreation area where new ForeverYoung activities and classes can be held allowing for program expansion.” Programs and forms are at westwoodnj.gov/recreation. Registration for fall programs begin Sept. 5 for residents, Sept. 11 for others.

The Emerson Project is slated to perform on Aug. 23; Beauty & The Grease performs on Aug. 30. Courtesy photos

DIPAOLA

CONNOLLY

WESTWOOD

The first addition to be unveiled is the new bocce ball court,which was recently completed with assistance from the Westwood Department of Public Works Westwood Recreation Department.

‘It just makes no sense’ – Fits, starts on police, DPW HQs

FROM PAGE 7

Hall building.

“It just makes no sense,” Sears said, noting councilors previously discussed reducing conference room size to accommodate on-site police operations.

Sears said the new jail and a sally port for securely escorting and processing potential bad actors was discussed for the Town Hall site. “I just want to see us moving forward (on DPW),” he said.

Members said they were more interested in upgrading police facilities at town hall than in seeking options for co-housing police and DPW operations.

Calamari again advised them to wait two months until Arcari Iovino presents final DPW and police department options. He said the architect will determine whether the police departmentʼs needs can be satisfied in their expanded town hall space.

“I give the architect credit for thinking outside the box,” Calamari said, noting that previously

PASCACK VALLEY BRIEFS

Post 206 50/50 raffle drawing Sept. 30

American Legion Post 206ʼs 50/50 raffle drawing is Sept. 30 at 2 p.m. at 264 Washington Ave., Westwood. Tickets are $20 each. First-, second-, and thirdplace prizes are 35%, 10%, and 5% of the amount received for all tickets, respectively.

Proceeds support American Legion Post 206 and its charitable efforts for veterans and families in need.

No substitution of the offered prize may be made and that winners need not be present to win. For more information and to pick up your chance call the post at (201) 664-9734 after 3 p.m. or Carl Williams at (201) 446-6047.

MFD Texas Hold ‘em Sept. 8

Register for Montvale Fire Departmentʼs Texas Hold ʻem Poker, set for Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. at 35 W. Grand Ave. The fun offers regulation tables, licensed dealers, a $5,000 prize pool (75 field), champion bracelet, chip bonus,

no one had proposed combining the police and DPW operations.

Calamari said the architect had talked to police officials “many times” before coming up with designs. He said DPW workers would not have been housed by this winter in a new facility so the wait would be worthwhile.

Swimclub site update

DiCarlo told council they are awaiting a proposal for a survey of the site of the former private Washington Towship Swim Club, Ridgewood Boulevard North, from Boswell Engineering to determine what public rec activities are possible there.

DiCarlo said the survey would cost approximately $48,000. Calamari said the survey, once completed this fall, would be reviewed by himself, DiCarlo and Recreation Advisory Board members. Calamari said the board would make recommendations to the mayor and council based on the Boswell survey.

Council President Desserie

$100 buy-in, and food included. Proceeds support the departmentʼs 100th anniversary celebrations. Reserve your seat at mikespokertables.com.

The Kootz summer ‘bye Aug. 24

Kick off the end of summer with a concert featuring The Kootz, and get rock ʻnʼroll with fiber. This all-ages concert runs Thursday, Aug. 24 at 6 p.m. in the Montvale Public Library garden. Please bring a folding chair. The

Morgan noted that only the council has funding power on the recommendations. She previously asked Calamari to add the engineering survey to project tracker updates at regular council sessions.

DiCarlo said the study should take roughly two months to complete. He said he anticipated renovation/improvement costs to be “significantly more” than the $438,750 county Open Space land acquisition grant received last year for the property. Costs for acquiring the swim club were $800,000, including $750,000 for the site.

Once the site engineering survey is complete, the swim club site will likely be eligible for park improvement grants, officials said.

DiCarlo said that electric and gas hookups were removed from the club, which cost approximately $6,000 over 10 months while still there. Calamari said the Recreation Advisory Board and Boswell had recommended that the pool and building on site be demolished — as renovation costs

library will announce the winners of the Adult Summer Reading Program.

‘Champions’ at Westwood library matinee

Spend your afternoons at Westwood Public Library as we host a monthly screening of some of the newest DVD releases, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug.17, we screen“Champions” (PG-13). Woody Harrelson. Register.

would be enormous — and that would eventually occur. He said the council had approved the recommendation.

DiCarlo said they have not yet received the $438,750 grant from the county Open Space acquisition program, with one more piece to be approved by county counsel.

DiCarlo said once a survey is complete, then Boswell will esti-

mate costs for recommended improvements and based on council decisions, they would move forward or not.

Councilwoman Daisy Velez noted that the grant writer said he could apply for more grants for property improvements once a survey is done. Calamari said a first round of improvement grants was submitted by GLD Associates.

REAL ESTATE &

PSE&G touts smart-meter milestone

PSE&G says it reached a key milestone by installing its millionth smart meter as part of i ts Smart Meter Program. Through this multi-year effort, PSE&G will replace 2.3 million existing electric meters with new smart meters at PSE&G residential and commercial customer premises. PSE&G expects to complete the installations by the end of 2024.

“We are very excited to realize this important accomplishment, because it means that we are getting closer to our goal of making smart meters available to all of our electric customers,” said Dave Johnson, vice of president customer care and chief customer officer. “There are already m ore than 110 million smart meters installed across the United States, so itʼs great news that PSE&G electric customers will soon also have access to the benefits that smart meters provide.”

The smart meters that PSE&G is installing (pseg.com/smartmeters) are a key piece of the utilityʼs Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), which links the smart meters to PSE&G system-monitoring and customer applications via a secure communications network.

Because smart meters can securely communicate with PSE&G systems, they are far more capable as compared to the standard, non-communicating meters that PSE&G is replacing.

The smart meters will deliver a number of enhanced benefits, including:

• More information for customers about how they use energy

•Near real-time power-outage detection and the elimination of almost all estimated bills

•More efficient power restoration following storms by better determining the scope of power outages, pinpointing areas where outages exist, and dispatching repair crews

“In addition to the important customer benefits, smart meters are also key to PSE&Gʼs powering a future where people use less energy, and itʼs cleaner, safer and d elivered more reliably than ever,” Johnson said.

As smart meter work continues through 2024, installation timing will depend on customersʼ location as technicians continue to make their way through PSE&Gʼs electric service territory. For the typical customer, installations are generally quick and easy.

REAL ESTATE WANTED

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Houses & Condos. Cash Paid. Fast closing, Sell AS-IS. Any condition, Any reason - moving, inheritance, divorce, problem tenants. No agent commissions & closing costs paid. Reliable Local BBB A+ Property Buyers. Call

PASCACK VALLEY

Diver: OT’s Ariya Suwan a U.S. junior champion

FROM PAGE 1

five finishes across multiple categories in the USA Diving Junior National Championships.

Ariyaʼs mom, Kokoe TanakaSuwan, tells us “She was the youngest female diver to represent AAUʼs diving Team USA (at age 9), at international competitions in Sweden last fall. Based on her results this season, she will be invited to compete in international competitions this fall.”

Ariya told Pascack Press on Aug. 15, “I really liked gymnastics, but it was too hard on my body. I loved swimming too, and my grandma suggested diving instead. I love jumping on the springboard and feeling like Iʼm flying.”

Ariya said she learned everything at Pike Dive Academy (pikediveacademy.com) in the Township of Washington, and trains regularly at New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark and at Montclair State University.

Over the past two years she went from beginner to rising star, and is continuing to learn more difficult dives for each competition.

Since starting out in competitive diving in 2020,amid the pandemic, Old Tappan resident Ariya Suwan has emerged as one of the top junior divers in the country,competing alongside Team USA in Sweden,and traveling to AAU competitions all over the United States.And she has fun,too. Pike Dive Academy and courtesy photos

Kokoe Tanaka-Suwan said “Two years ago we found Pike Dive Academy [via Google] and Ariya fell in love with it right away. Her coach, Dora Fyfe, is the head coach and owner of the academy, and she really took to it. She trains six days a week with what they call the elite team at Pike Dive Academy.”

Tanaka-Suwan explained that Ariya tried a number of sports growing up, but none really called to her the way that diving has. During the pandemic Ariya was looking to try something new, and they found it at Pike Dive Academy, which offers year-round recreational and competitive team programs, and a supportive community.

“Diving is kind of like a combination of gymnastics and swimming,” she said, “They do a lot of trampoline training, dry land training, and of course pool training.”

According to Ariya, learning to dive is far from easy, and

takes many hours of training.

“I do this dive that is a back one-and-a-half, like one-semi flip and then turning back the other way into a dive,” Ariya says. “I had a lot of trouble with it a year ago and stopped doing it for a while. But this year I did it in a competition and it was really good,” she said.

Ariya competes in the under-11 age category at all of her dive meets, as well as the national championships, but as she gets older sheʼll certainly feel the increased pressure — and challenge — of competition.

“I have to get more new dives because Iʼm going into a higher age category,” Ariya said. “Instead of six dives I have to do eight dives, so thatʼs going to be a lot harder.”

She said, “I met a lot of people when I was in Sweden, because they picked a group of

us to come. All the girls in my age category were very nice. I met people from Texas, California, and Chicago, so it was a lot of fun.”

Her mom adds, “The Sweden trip opened Ariyaʼs eyes to the world of diving. Her coach Dora has been integral in creating a positive pathway for her moving forward. Sheʼs very nurturing but sets high goals. She caters to Ariyaʼs needs and leads her in a way that she can really blossom.”

Dora Fyfe, Ariyaʼs primary coach, and owner of Pike Dive Academy, has helped train competitive divers for more than 30 years.

In 2019 she was hired as a diving coach at NJIT, and in her first season was CCSA 2020 Menʼs Diving Coach of the Year. Fyfe was head referee at the 2022 Ivy League Diving Championships, hosted at Harvard University. She also was Ecuadorian National Team dive coach and judge for the 2020 South American Games.

When asked about working with Fyfe, Ariya told Pascack Press , “My coach has very interesting strategies sometimes, but they always work. She uses letters to explain our body shape during dives: like, you have to jump up and tuck into a C and then kick out.”

As for next steps, training several times a week and entering middle school will certainly keep Ariya busy — but she says sheʼs determined to learn new dives and continue honing her skills.

Pascack Press contributing writer Patrick Breen is editorin-chief of the Pop Culture Nerd podcast.

Minnie R. PLESCIA

Minnie R. Plescia (née Longo), 89, longtime resident of River Vale, born Jan. 24, 1934, passed away on Aug. 13, 2023. She was predeceased by her parents, Pasquale Longo and Antoinette Boccadora, and loving husband, Anthony V. Plescia.

Minnie is survived by her sons Anthony J. Plescia and Glenn P. Plescia and his wife Milissa HowellPlescia; her sisters Madeline Siciliano and her husband, Nick, and Linda Sgallata and her husband, Don, as well as her nieces Karen Costantino and her husband, Ted, and children Amanda and Brent, and Susan Westervelt.

Before retiring, Minnie was an executive administrative assistant for over 40 years. She also enjoyed watching the New York Yankees.

Services will be private. Share fond memories and condolences at Becker-FuneralHome.com.

Ewing A. HAWKINS

Ewing A. Hawkins, 70, of Montvale passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023 with his loving wife at his side. Beloved husband of Judith (née Brattlof) for 40 years. Devoted father of Tanya Tallarico and her husband, John; Justin Hawkins and his wife, Caitlin; Ashley Hawkins and her partner, Arthur Simpson; and Ryan Hawkins and his wife, Vanessa.

Cherished grandfather of 13: Nicholas, Skylar, Brianna, Shayna, Alexander, Aniya, Amani, Ameire, Arianna, Alanna, Aydin, Ajay and Aʼlacee. Loving brother of six older sisters. He is also survived by many loving relatives and friends.

Ewing had a great sense of humor, which kept everyone laughing — except, of course, the butt of most of his jokes, his wife, Judy. He loved saving all his change so he could go to all the surrounding casinos. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Visitation 2–6 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 13 at Robert Spearing Funeral Home Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, rsfhi.com, followed by a private cremation. In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Ewing may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering, mskcc.org.

Elaine ADLER

Elaine Adler, co-founder and driving force behind the Adler Aphasia Center in Maywood, passed away on Aug. 10, 2023, at her home in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. She was 95 years young.

Elaine was a highly respected and tireless activist and philanthropist throughout New Jersey and

beyond. In 2003 she with with her husband, Mike, launched the Maywood Center, a low-cost, long term therapeutic care option for stroke and brain injury survivors who have aphasia. No appropriate long-term therapeutic option could be found for Mike when he suffered a stroke and aphasia in 1993.

The Center has won numerous awards and has become a world leader in long-term aphasia rehabilitation and research, with two other full-service centers in West Orange and Toms River, seven Aphasia Communication Groups located throughout New Jersey, and the Adler Aphasia Center at Hadassah Academic College in Jerusalem.

Elaine and Mike owned Myron Manufacturing in Maywood, which at its peak employed 14,000 employees in more than 10 countries, selling personalized business gifts and advertising specialties. The business started in Manhattan, where they first lived, but by the mid-1950s the company moved to Teaneck, then to Maywood, where they found the space to grow.

Elaine and Mike put roots down in Paramus and Franklin Lakes and had four children — William, Richard, Donald James, and Marie — and 11 grandchildren and a recent great-grandchild.

Elaine was a powerhouse of energy and creative ideas, constantly educating people about aphasia and soliciting support for the Centerʼs programs and growth. Her mantra was “Speak up for people who cannot speak for themselves.”

A member of the New Jersey State Aphasia Task Force and numerous advocacy groups, she was a passionate and outspoken voice, often appearing in the media and always ready to speak articulately on behalf of people with aphasia. She invited prominent people to support the cause and applied her intelligence, charisma, and influence to help those in need.

In 2017, just two years after Mikeʼs passing, former Gov. Chris Christie signed into law the Mike Adler Aphasia Task Force, making New Jersey the first state in the country to enact legislation to increase the provision of support services to people with aphasia.

Several years ago, Elaine was asked what the best part was of starting the Adler Aphasia Center.

“Oh, I just kvell when I visit the center. Sometimes I think I get more out of it than the people we serve!

To see what people with a communication disorder can accomplish is truly inspiring. There was a young woman with aphasia who came to us, who couldnʼt speak at all and cried all the time. All she wanted to do was to relearn how to read books to her small child. And she did it! Another young man with aphasia was a city councilman in a local town and wanted to run again and be able to make his acceptance speech. He practiced that speech every day. Well, he won the seat and made the speech! This center has made our lives so much fuller, and weʼve met wonderful people. Anyone who visits here always leaves with a happy heart.”

Elaine was a proactive force to

be reckoned with in both state and national advocacy for aphasia rehabilitation. Along with Mike, she was the driving force behind the creation of Aphasia Access, an international consortium of aphasia professionals who are leading the way to provide communication access for those affected by aphasia.

Elaine served on numerous boards, including Ramapo College of New Jersey, where she served on the Board of Governors, Jewish Home and Rehabilitation Center in Rockleigh, Arnold Gold Foundation for Humanism in Medicine, and Bergen Countyʼs Childrenʼs Aid and Family Services.

Elaine was a founding board member of Gildaʼs Club of northern New Jersey, and the Center for Interreligious Understanding.

In 2010, She and Mike donated $2 million to build the Adler Center for Nursing Excellence building at Ramapo College, providing a permanent home for their nursing school.

Elaine Adler took a life tragedy — the severe disability of her husband — and turned it into an opportunity to help others on a global basis. Elaine chose to devote years of her life to provide recourse and support for the more than 2 million stroke and brain injury survivors with aphasia and their loved ones –and has provided them with new communication skills and self-confidence that has enabled them to live productive, independent and more fulfilling lives.

Donations may be made to adleraphasiacenter.org/tribute-toelaine-adler.

Earle Edward BRITTEN

Earle Edward Britten, 80, of Montvale passed away on Thursday Aug. 10, 2023. He was the beloved husband, of 52 years, of Deborah Eleanor (Rennie) Britten.

Born July 9, 1943 in Jersey City, he was the son of the late Earle and Angela (Kivior) Britten.

Earle worked for Public Service Electric & Gas for more than 40

years. In his free time, he loved being outdoors, passing time fishing and skiing, and tinkering in the garage. He was at his happiest on Long Beach Island, spending time on the beach with his family and friends.

In addition to his wife, Deborah, of Montvale, formerly of Secaucus, he is survived by his sons, Douglas Britten and his wife, Rebecca, of Cumming, Ga., Tyler Britten and his fiancée, Kathleen Ketcha, of Philadelphia, Pa., and Timothy Britten and his wife, Kathleen, of Westfield; six grandchildren: Kelsey, Emma, Cooper, Lucas, Parker, and Brooks; and sister, Bernice Cassano of Jersey City. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Joseph Cassano. No funeral is planned. The family will notify friends and family when a memorial service is scheduled. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Earleʼs name may be made to the Alzheimerʼs Association (alz.org) or Surfrider Foundation (https://surfrider.org).

John L. KIRK

John L. Kirk, 71, of Ramsey, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 13, 2023 after a long, courageous battle with early onset dementia/Alzheimerʼs disease.

John was the most caring and kind husband to his devoted wife, Karen (née Winkler), and was the best dad ever to daughters, Kelly Kirk and husband Darin, Kerry Reekie and husband, Michael, and Tracey Widowski and husband, Steve; he was the adored PopPop of Olivia, John, James, Ryan, Nathanael, Kaitlyn, and Sean.

He is also survived by his beloved mother, Eleanor; brothers Thomas Kirk and wife, Brenda, and Patrick Kirk and wife, Rita; sisters Colleen Kirk-Hehir and husband, Cyril, and Peggy McNamara and husband, Neil; sisters-in-law Katie Kirk and Pat Graham and husband, Doug; and brother-in-law Rick Winkler and wife, Denise; and his cherished nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his father Thomas Kirk, brother Kevin Kirk, and

sister-in-law Doreen Thompson. He was born in the Bronx the second oldest of six. His family moved to Hillsdale, where much of his youth was spent as the Commissioner of Hillsdale Park — where it was “all fun and games until the cops show up.”

An expert trout fisherman and fishing buddy to all, he spent his weekend mornings in “Godʼs church” — fishing from one of his many rowboats on Sterling Lake or Rondout Reservoir. Heʼd have four lines out of the second his boat hit the water and could catch two fish (“doubles!”) while rowing all the time. Ever the outdoorsman, if the sun became scorching or wind forced him off the water, he would spend the rest of the day shooting, riding ATVs, and lighting fireworks with the family and friends he loved so much.

Also an animal-lover, he could train any animal, even wild animalslike the fox outside the upstate house that would come out of the woods when he whistled and the turtles in his pond that would surface when he clapped. He could spot a mouse crossing the road a mile away and could move fast as lightning to catch in his bare hands an unsuspecting snake, deer, duck or turkey (even bringing one home in his truck). He had a pet mallard duck and raccoon.

John had such deep love for his family and friends and would always look to protect the underdog. He had great compassion and a calming presence to anyone who maybe in despair. John was always the life of the party, creator of fun times and passionate about his country and the freedoms it offered. He was always grateful for those who sacrificed to keep those freedoms alive.

The family will receive relatives and friends at St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, 69 Valley St., Hillsdale on Wednesday, Aug. 16 from 9 to 9:45 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 10. Interment at Westwood Cemetery, Westwood. He will be missed forever by all those lucky enough to have known him. Godspeed and fish on

WESTWOOD CEMETERY CO.

Carnival closure and facts on flooding

To the editor:

A

produced minor flooding in Westwood. [“Westwood takes lead on $200,000 study over f looding,” Michael Olohan, Aug. 14, 2023.]

However, the USGS flood gauges the company monitors did not reach “even minor flood stage.” This is presented as evidence of the complexity of the flooding issues our towns experience, implying the reservoir is not a source of our problems.

L MOST 900 area residents have signed a change.org petition supporting Sen. Holly Schepisiʼs flood control bill, S790, and Assemblyman Robert Authʼs companion legislation, A4200. The Pascack Valley Mayors Association, representing 10 towns and over 100,000 residents, unanimously supports these long-overdue regulatory reform measures. We believe Stevens Institute of Technology, by developing computer modeling tailored to our drainage basin, can produce an algorithm to reliably inform controlled inflows and outflows at the water companyʼs holding vessels, thereby retaining the necessary reserves of water for consumption — while reducing the constant threat of deluge.A closer look at what happened, when and where it happened, Tuesday, July 25, suggests that conclusion just doesnʼt hold water.

Our flood-burdened residents certainly understand the complex relationship between rainfall and flooding. Where the rain falls, the length of time and the volume that falls, the starting level of water in the brooks, even (under certain circumstances) the tidal pull of the moon may be in play, as well as the accumulation of flow-impeding silt and debris, are all factors in potential flood events.

The incident described as occurring “a few weeks ago” coincided with the Annual Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps Carnivalʼs opening, Tuesday July 25.

Woodcliff Lake Reservoir marked 6.38 – which is over flood stage.

The rain fell roughly 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. In that period Westwood received 0.69 inches of rain, Hillsdale 0.74, P ark Ridge 1.10, Nanuet 1.55, and in Montvale 1.99.

At 2:30, when the rain began, the water level in the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir was 94.64 feet.

A t 3:45, more than halfway through the event, the water level at the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir barely rose to 94.65 feet. When the rain stopped Westwood still had not flooded. The sun had come out. And the reservoir level had risen to 95.24 feet.

By 5:15 the water reached 95.51 feet.

At approximately 6 p.m. water started to rise from the drainage ditch behind Kmart, while the water level at the reservoir began to come down – to 95.4 feet.

taken on water and the reservoir level had dropped to 95.28 feet.

We do not have access to the precise movements of the gates at Veoliaʼs facility but we do know that they are programmed to lower when the pressure of rain and runoff reaches a set point, triggering them to come down.

How low and how fast the gates retract must be synchronized with the growing a mount of water pressure exerted against them. Logicall y, the greater the pressure the lower the gates, which in turn determines the height of the water column, falling over their 65-foot-long span.

In fact, the operational protocols the state requires Veolia to follow – in concert with any of the other floodaggravating factors noted above — made this flood event fairly inevitable

Recent events reveal why support for change is growing.

In last weekʼs Pascack Press, a Veolia spokesperson cites a recent rain event that

If data drives our inferences, conclusions, and policy prescriptions, then the source of the data is crucial. In this instance, while the Park Ridge gauge may have been under flood stage, the gauge at the

Forty-five minutes later the level had dropped to 95.31 feet, while water came up over the Broadway roadway, swamping the low-lying areas of the Kmart lot, where the carnivalʼs high voltage generators — powering the rides and gaming booths — usually are positioned. The live wires were quickly submerged. I saw children wading through these puddles. The carnival had to be shut down.

At 7:10 p.m., Steuben and Harding avenues had

The water enters the concrete spillway, the Pascack Brook, and then travels south, in our direction. The water companyʼs operational, state regulated mandates are twofold: avert catastrophic structural failure of the gates, and retain the maximum amount of water in the vessel.

Boswell Engineering has advised that due to the ongoing loss of watershed to overdevelopment, it now takes half the amount of runoff to cause the reservoir to spill over — twice as quickly. So, a half inch of rain dropped locally, and two inches falling further north of us, with the reservoir brimming near capacity, can be a major contributing factor to the delayed reaction flooding we saw in July

On July 25, it didnʼt rain on our parade in Westwood. The sun was shining when Iʼd arrived at 5:30 p.m. to work the Frogger booth with Councilwoman Beth Dell and resident volunteer Rusty Miller. But the amount of runoff, from the northern sector of our drainage basin, flowing through the maxedout Woodcliff Lake Reservoir, following its operational protocols, cancelled our carnival, flooded our streets, and caused much consternation and concern. Without a doubt it broke a few hearts too.

The Pascack Valley Mayo rs Association encourages readers to check out the petition and raise their voices for flood control legislation S790 and A4200.

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P/T Yard Attendant –Hillsdale DPW. Department of Public Works is seeking a responsible individual to man our recycling center and assist residents with their recycling drop off.

Responsibilies include documenting visitiors, cleaning yard, emptying garbage cans, and other manual labor type tasks. Loader operating experience a plus. Pays $20 per hour. Mondays & Wednesdays 7AM-3PM. 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.

Mayor Ray Arroyo Westwood

H HOOUUSSEECCLLEEAANNIINNG G

SCHOOL

Part-

The Westwood Habitat ReStore is looking for fun-loving people to volunteer! Positions include customer service and the loading dock. Join the family at Habitat Bergen ReStore and help us build homes for families while having a feel-good experience volunteering. Call (201) 547-1020 for more information. Habitat

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D WANT

BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

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

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

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

The Chelsea assisted living facility in Washington Twp seeks a Building Service Director with knowledge of electrical, mechanical, HVAC systems, plumbing, general repairs and maintenance.

Direct/oversee all aspects of maintenance and environmental services for the community.

2+ years building maintenance experience managing a team including an assistant and housekeepers, budgeting experience, and ability to perform minor repairs. On-call required. Supervisory skills required. F/T, competitive salary and benefits. Send resumes to taronson@cslal.com EOE

MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

Join our ever growing sales team as a Sales Associate for the Pascack Press and Northern Valley Press. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service.

SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net

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Woman seeks job as caregiver. Please phone

347-638-7809

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