Pascack Press 8.26.24

Leading the way

PARK RIDGE 9U OWLS ATTACK PARK RIDGE 9U OWLS ATTACK

Back-to-back champs more than earn redemption

HILLSDALE

EMERSON STATION PARTNERIN DEFAULTON $8

MILLION MORTGAGE

Is Block 419 project stalled on cash flow, lawsuits?

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Accurate Builders LLC, a partner in the Bock 419 Emerson Station project, is facing foreclosure on an $8 million mortgage for a property in Kenilworth due to missed payments and failure to maintain a required reserve. The same firm is behind the delayed Emerson Station project, which is now involved in multiple lawsuits, including a $1.4 million claim from a subcontractor and a

See EMERSON on page 21

CONGRATULATIONSTO

the Park Ridge Owls 9U baseball team, which capped off a dream season with back-to-back championships.

Entering the spring with the sting of last summerʼs 1-0 championship loss to the Northern Valley Norsemen still fresh, the Owls were on a mission. Determined to erase the memory of that narrow defeat, they took to winter workouts and spring practices with a singular focus: redemption.

The Owls wasted no time making their intentions clear, starting the season with an 8-5 victory over Wood-Ridge. They stormed through their first seven

Continued on page 17

GARDEN POWER

VOICESON THEROAD TOSPECIAL ELECTION

ʻModernize the middle schoolʼvote Sept. 17; BOE meets Monday, Aug. 26; new videos drop

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Residents will have one of the last opportunities to express opinions and ask questions about the $62.4 million George White renovation referendum on Monday, Aug. 26 at 5:30 p.m. at Meadowbrook School.

Pascack Press reached out to several local councilmembers, a former councilor, the mayor, and a resident who opposed the previous, $82.7 million, referendum to replace George White Middle School, to gather their views on the Tuesday, Sept. 17, referendum.

While they held diverse views, all urged voters to become informed about the George White renovation referendum, consider what needs to be done at the school, and, regardless of their decision, to vote on Sept. 17.

In an email sent to parents and the community, superintendent Robert Lombardy urged residents to attend the Aug. 26 school board meeting if they have questions or concerns. He also announced five new videos posted on YouTube that feature trustees detailing referen-

See VOICES on page 19

Extra! Enjoy this detail of the Park Ridge Local of July 19, 1899. Compiling and editing the newspaper—the valley’s first—were brothers John C. Storms and James Banta Hall Storms. PAGE 4

The Westwood Volunteer Fire Department Color Guard leads Oradell’s July Fourth Parade—a tradition upheld for 30 years.

Front to back, left to right, summer 2024 champion 9UOwls Brody Weiss, Bennett Brogan, Bryce Hamilton, Niko Franolic, Danny Ramcharan, Ryan Klos, Thomas Smith. Sohan Shah, Johnny Pierotti, Nolan Rosa, Nathan Kida, Dylan Jobst, coach Leigh Weiss, coach Shaun Hamilton, manager Eric Rosa, and coach Adam Kida. Thomas Smith photo.

PASCACK PRESS

Vote Katie Keller for PVRHSD BOE

To the editor:

M YNAMEIS Katie Keller, and I am excited to write to you to announce my candidacy in the upcoming election to reprise my role as a Pascack Valley Regional High School District Board of Education member. I have had the opportunity to learn and volunteer alongside fellow educators and board members in order to truly make an impact on the educational system as it stands today. I have had the

pleasure of hearing from community members and students, as well as fellow concerned parties of how to make the Pascack Valley Regional High School District better for all members.

Furthermore, I have a unique investment in the community as an educator in River Vale and as a parent of a child attending the River Vale Public School District. I am incredibly proud of my students, and I would love nothing more than to aid in ushering them into adulthood by continuing to advocate for their academic, social-emotional, physical, and overall personal health and wellbeing. It is my lifeʼs goal to encourage my students, my own child, and others to become active

and exemplary members of a scope of communities, ranging from local to global.

As a member of the board of education for the Pascack Valley Regional High School District, 1 am committed to aiding in the smooth operations of our beloved Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills High Schools, as well as champion the forward movement of educational practices to reflect positive outcomes for all students and families in our regional community I look forward to continuing to serve by participating in open communication, listening to community voices, and sharing best practices rooted in current research to effect constructive change.

Thank you for your trust and support. I look forward to hearing your voice and earning your vote

in the upcoming election. Please vote for Kathleen “Katie” Keller for PVRHSD Board of Education in November!

Kathleen “Katie” Keller River Vale

Bontemps, Rasmussen for WW Council

To the editor: W EAREEXCITED to announce our candidacy for the Westwood Borough Council as proud One Westwood members on the Democratic ticket. As longtime residents with a history

of active volunteering to serve those most in need, we believe our community will benefit from fresh perspectives and diverse experiences as we address Westwoodʼs evolving needs.

For decades, Westwood has been majority governed by one party. We appreciate that each councilmember serves with the intention of doing what is best for our borough. But we believe a balance of viewpoints that more accurately reflects Westwoodʼs political demographics will better represent all its residents, including its most vulnerable and those traditionally underserved by local government.

As councilmembers, we will foster transparency, collaboration, and innovative solutions that will

Minimum quantity 1200 copies Many References Available FREE ESTIMATES Feel free to email us at monseyprinting@gmail.com 845-587-8105

The Westwood Board of Health, in partnership with the Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission, is pleased to announce the 2024 Flu Shot Clinic at Westwood House, 100 Madison Ave., on Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Pre-registration is required.

In the event of a delay in vaccine shipment, the clinic will be rescheduled to Tuesday, Sept. 24. Insurance and Payment

•Medicare Part B: Accepted. Participants must bring their Medicare Part B card for billing purposes.

•Other Insurance: For those enrolled in non-Medicare Part B plans (HMO, PPO, etc.), the cost is $20 for the regular vaccine and $63 for the high-dose vaccine. Please note that only cash payments will be accepted.

•Medicare Advantage (HMO, PPO, etc.): Not accepted. Participants with these plans are advised to receive their flu shot

from their primary care physician, where it may be covered at no cost.

Important Information for Parents: Children aged 3–17: Children can be vaccinated at the clinic only if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Some children aged 3-8 may require a second dose of the vaccine, which is preservative-free.

The clinic is open to all residents, regardless of town. To register, call 201-291-6090.

HILLSDALE DPW RETURNSFROM

‘FINALDESIGN’ INONCOMMUNITYCENTER

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

A top public works official informed the Borough Council on Aug. 13 that all DPW operations, including office staff and light vehicles, have moved back from temporary offices in Woodcliff Lake to the local DPW facility.

Earlier this year, the DPW relocated its office operations and some lighter vehicles and equipment to two leased properties in Woodcliff Lake following damaging floods in late 2023. Since then, DPW staff have made improvements to onsite buildings and raised equipment, storage facilities, and mechanical equipment to higher ground to minimize future flood impacts.

Officials noted that August would be the final month of payments for leasing the two out-oftown properties at 150 and 160 Broadway The combined monthly rent for both properties was $2,850.

The properties are managed by Avak Uzatmaciyan under 150 LLC and 160 LLC, located at 792 Route 17 North, Paramus.

The total cost of the lease over eight months was $22,800.

Additionally, interim superintendent Barry Peterson reported that they had purchased a half-size used shipping container and moved it to the second floor for additional

equipment storage. Borough Administrator Mike Ghassali mentioned that this might store items such as lawn mowers and plow attachments, keeping them above potential floodwaters.

Councilor Justin Fox, DPW committee chair, told Pascack Press that all the upgrades to DPW facilities were done “in-house” by DPW employees, including changes to the

The borough presented a final design for a community center at the under-development 256-unit Patterson Street mixed-use development at the former Waste Management site. Completion of the center is planned for late 2026.

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Left to right at the Aug. 13 Westwood Borough Council m eeting:Mayor Ray Arroyo, b orough clerk Jean-Marie Vadovic, assistant borough a dministrator Karen Hughes, and councilmember Erin Collins. Courtesy photo.

Hughes honored as Westwood admin staff advance

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The boroughʼs longtime clerk and its deputy clerk received promotions at the Aug. 13 council meeting, with Karen Hughes appointed to fulltime assistant borough administrator and Jean-Marie Vadovic appointed as the new borough clerk.

Borough Clerk Hughes, who was hired as municipal clerk on Sept. 18, 2007, and Vadovic, hired in February 2021, heard lavish praise from the mayor and council at the session.

Hughes was honored with a proclamation recognizing her “vast knowledge” and “can-do attitude” and noting she “has always given great care and attention to all the employees, elected officials, and residents of

See WESTWOOD on page 25

Your

news of the day, July 19, 1899

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

THIS WEEK, we go back 125 years to see what was being reported in the Park Ridge Local, the Pascack Valleyʼs first newspaper. This simple weekly paper did not have any bold headlines, photographs, or spot color. The six columns on its front page offered news briefs about what was happening in the lives of the local people. Sometimes, as you will read here, there would be thinly veiled (and rather amusing) editorial commentary on local issues. Three pages of advertisements, syndicated national news, household and farming tips, and short stories made up the remainder of the fourpage folio.

Compiling and editing the paper were John C. Storms and James Banta Hall Storms. The brothers had grown up in Park Ridge in the 1860s and 1870s when the Pascack Valley was still rural, before any significant development or modern conveniences had found their way here. They were heavily involved in local affairs and knew just about everyone in town, which must have helped their reporting tremendously.

The minutiae printed in the Park Ridge Local is indicative of just how tight-knit this rural community was in its early days. Some of the reporting alludes to the fact that the Pascack Valley was once a vacation destination for people from larger surrounding cities. Many boarding houses operated here, bringing in a significant population of seasonal guests.

Enjoy this glimpse into life as it was in the summer of 1899, courtesy of the Pascack Historical Society.

•The Pioneer Baseball Club has disbanded.

• The Feddern house on Main Street [Pascack Road] is receiving a new coat of paint.

• One day recently, a lady living in the town found that while she had been busy with her household duties, some miscreant had entered the kitchen, taken the dinner from the stove, helped himself to a goodly portion, and replaced the things much as he found them. It is needless to add that the lady has ever since taken the precaution of locking the doors whenever she goes out of the room.

•The new building under construction at Etna [Emerson] is to be used as a barber shop.

•Over a hundred boarders are said to be staying at the boarding house on Spring Valley Road.

•The young daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer VanHorn, of Etna, is reported to be in a precarious condition.

• Rumor has it that a widower and a widow, both former residents of this place, were recently married in the City.

•A family named Ackerman has rented one of the J.H. Riley houses on Ridge Avenue.

•Anyone strolling about town in the evening and keeping their eyes open may be rewarded by seeing some curious sights.

•Attention is called to the advertisement in another column by the Board of Education for a janitor for the public school.

• Several persons from this place have announced their intention of going on the Order of Railroad Conductorsʼexcursion to Shohola Glen.

• Suits have been ordered by the members of the

See LOCAL on page 25

A summertime view west on Park Avenue—toward Pascack Road from Hawthorne Avenue—at the turn of the 20th century.The road was not yet paved,but there were sidewalks.The building with the porch still stands at the corner of Park and Hawthorne avenues and houses the bicycle store Cyclesport.In 1899,it was a dry goods,millinery (women’s hats), and shoe store under the ownership of Albert and Laura Foisy.

A detail of the Park Ridge Local of July 19, 1899. Compiling and editing the paper were brothers John C.Storms and James Banta Hall Storms.

Ruocco stirs question, apparently settled, on Fox, PBA

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

A local councilman, who is also a police officer in another town and a member of the Police Benevolent Association (PBA), a police union, was found to have no conflict of interest in serving on the borough's police negotiating committee to develop a new police officers' contract, according to a state agency ruling.

Councilman John Ruocco had raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest regarding Councilman Justin Foxʼs role on the borough police committee. However, Fox stated that he had sought and received a determination from the state Department of Community Affairs, which found that his PBA union membership did not constitute a conflict of interest.

Ruocco argued that, given Foxʼs membership in the same union negotiating a new four-year contract with the borough, there may be a perception of a conflict of interest.

At the Aug. 13 council meeting, Ruocco said, “I really find it hard to believe that he [Fox] would negotiate for the borough, you know, against a union that he is part of.”

Fox responded that, although he belongs to the PBA, it is not the same local chapter as the Hillsdale PBA Local No. 107.

Ruocco pressed Fox to disclose

the “outcome” of his request to the DCAʼs Division of Local Government Services to determine whether he could serve on the committee despite being a PBA member.

Fox told Ruocco that the outcome was “confidential,” but added, “since you keep concentrating on fellow council members instead of the betterment of Hillsdale,” he would be “transparent” and asserted that the DCAʼs Local Government Division found “no conflict or local government ethics law violations, no potential violations.”

“So letʼs get back to the betterment of Hillsdale, please,” Fox said. When Ruocco began to reply, Mayor Michael Sheinfield interjected, “Letʼs not go here, now,” adding, “I want to stop.”

Ruocco responded, “Heʼs making a point that Iʼm not for the betterment of Hillsdale.”

Fox replied that he did not say that, and Councilwoman Abby Lundy addressed Ruocco “There was a point of order called; you need to stop talking.”

Ruocco countered, “There was no point of order called unless you tell me that I donʼt have the right to speak at all.”

Sheinfield said, “The stuff that goes back and forth here is not productive in either case.”

Ruocco pressed on, “And the only reason I bring it up again, because I brought it up in January, was I donʼt want the Borough of Hillsdale to be perceived as doing

something that is unethical.”

Sheinfield interjected, “Fortunately, DCA has ruled and weʼre all good.” Council President John Escobar added, “You all can sleep at night now.”

Escobar, along with Fox and councilor Janetta Trochimiuk, serves on the police negotiations committee.

Pascack Press asked Fox if he would provide a copy of the DCA decision. He declined, saying the decision was confidential, though he said he would release it if the DCA consented.

The DCA Division of Local Government Services declined our subsequent records request, citing statute involving advisory opinions—adding that its Local Finance Board “neither confirms nor denies the existence of records responsive to your request.” We objected to this.

[Notwithstanding that exchange, the DCA does not bar Fox from releasing the material. — Ed.]

Generally, the largest portion of the municipal budget is allocated to police department funding, followed by public works and municipal employee expenses. Locally, school funding comprises about 65% of local property tax bills, with municipal costs at approximately 25% and Bergen County taxes at about 10%.

At the Aug. 13 meeting, Escobar said the Police Negotiating Committee would meet that week to discuss setting a meeting date with

Drivers, note these new pedestrian safety signs

PARKRIDGE

Hightlights from Mayor Keith Misciagnaʼs Aug. 16 update to residents…

YOUMAYHAVE noticed recently that some intersections and crosswalks have undergone significant upgrades. After diligent research by our Park Ridge Police Departmentʼs Traffic Bureau, the PRPD have begun installing pedestrian crossing signs equipped with emergency warning lights throughout our community. These signs are designed to increase safety for everyone, especially pedestrians, by providing highly visible alerts to drivers.

The emergency warning lights will be activated when someone is crossing, making it easier for drivers to notice and stop in time. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce accidents at crosswalks. Please be extra cautious and keep an eye out for these new signs as they begin to appear around Park Ridge.

Our Park Ridge Police Department has also been focusing on

pedestrian safety, with specially trained officers acting as “decoys” to enforce violations for failure to yield to pedestrians in our crosswalks. You never know—the next pedestrian you fail to yield for may be a law enforcement officer. Itʼs crucial to always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. You can help make our streets safer for our children and all pedestrians by being alert at crosswalks, coming to a complete stop if someone is crossing, allowing plenty of time for pedestrians to cross safely, and setting a positive example for others on the road. Together, we can make our community safer for everyone.

Park Ridge Library still closed

The Park Ridge Library remains closed, but they are happy to place your holds on the tables in the hallway across from the library entrance for easy pick-up. All requests from our library and any-

The Park Ridge Police Department posted on Aug.11 that some intersections and crosswalks have had significant upgrades.The PRPD hasstarted installing new pedestrian crossing signs equipped with emergency warning lights throughout the borough.”

thing in the BCCLS catalog will be put in alphabetical order for patrons to grab and go. The book drop remains open.

Welcome new business

Enhance Dentistry is having a Grand Opening on Friday, Sept. 13. Come join them for a fun and exciting event as they celebrate the grand

opening of their new dental office. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, meet their friendly staff, receive giveaways, and take a tour of their state-of-the-art facility. Whether you're a current patient or new to their practice, they canʼt wait to show you all the ways they can enhance your smile. Their address is 146 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 1. Email them at hello@enhancedentistrynj.com to let them know you will be attending, or call with any questions at (201) 775-4433. Join them for music, food, refreshments, raffles, and lots of grand opening exclusive discounts. Starts at 7 p.m.

Upcoming Events

Summer Concerts 2024: Our Summer Concerts of 2024 are back and are held at 6:30 p.m. at the Pavilion near the turf field behind Borough Hall. The last concert, featuring Tim Gysin, has been rescheduled to Wednesday, Aug. 28. The Pavilion at Davies Memorial Field is covered, so the concerts will go on rain or shine. See you there— free admission.

Fireworks Show

Save the date for our 2024 fireworks show. The Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee present the 2024 fireworks and free concert, featuring The Big Ones, on Labor Day weekend. The event is set for Saturday, Aug. 31, at 7 p.m., with a rain date of Sunday, Sept. 1. It will take place at the Park Ridge Football Field by the tennis courts. Please bring a blanket—no pets

allowed and please no food or drink on the field.

Oktoberfest

2024

Save the date for our 2024 Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committeeʼs annual Oktoberfest, Saturday, Sept. 28, from 4 to 9 p.m. with a rain date on Sunday, Sept. 29, from 1 to 6 p.m. There will be two bands, Oktoberfest food, and beverages at the Park Ridge Elks Lodge: 13 Sulak Lane.

PKRG-TV

PKRG-TV is looking for volunteers. 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 to help with filming football, basketball, volleyball, and other local sports to continue bringing such programs to our community. If youʼve enjoyed seeing your kidsʼ events, or if you are a Park Ridge athlete alum and have any time to give, please consider volunteering. All are welcome. Training is provided. Write pkrg@parkridgeboro.com.

Tri-Boro Ambulance

Excellent opportunity to help your community—the Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps needs volunteers. Call (201) 391-2332.

Park Ridge Recreation Department

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

Food Pantry

The Tri-Boro Food Pantry continues to need donations. Please visit the pantry on Tuesday or Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m. You can also drop off donations at Borough Hall in the donation box located in the lobby during normal business hours.

Westwood Senior Fellowship

Sept. 10

The Westwood Senior Fellowship starts its fall season on Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 11:30 a.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. Cake and coffee will be served, and the guest speaker will be Janelle Larghi of Meals on Wheels North Jersey. Sign up then for the Dec. 10 luncheon, which also marks the fellowshipʼs 65th anniversary party. Club president Mary Cerrati says, “See you there!”

MISCIAGNA

WESTWOOD

OLD TAPPANWON’TTHROWINWITH PROPOSED ‘FOUR-TOWN’ EMT STUDY

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACKVALLEY

Following discussion at its Aug. 19 meeting, the Old Tappan Borough Council decided not to participate in a planned four-town study of joint ambulance services.

However, the mayor emphasized that they remain committed to increasing daytime coverage for the local ambulance corps.

Old Tappanʼs decision leaves three neighbors—Hillsdale, River Vale, and the Township of Washington—to likely proceed with the joint ambulance study at a slightly increased cost per town.

The council discussed the joint ambulance study at its Aug. 19 meeting and voted, 5-0, not to join. Last month, Hillsdale approved participation in the study, and on Aug. 12, the townships of Washington and River Vale approved resolutions to participate in a four-town joint ambulance service feasibility study.

Since those resolutions anticipated Old Tappanʼs participation, the towns will likely need to approve revised resolutions listing only the three participating towns, along with a minor cost increase.

If four towns had participated, the study cost would have been $4,350 per town. However, with three towns, the cost increased to $5,800 per town. The study, conducted by MTP Group of Sparta, will assess the feasibility of providing joint ambulance services on a paid, per diem basis for the participating towns.

Hillsdale is the only town of the three in the study with a “combined” volunteer and paid per-diem EMT ambulance service

that operates during daytime hours on weekdays, covering the town from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hillsdaleʼs combined service began last September to address a chronic shortage of weekday, daytime EMS volunteers. This shortage, coupled with more stringent E MT training requirements demanding 160 hours of training, has created a shortage of EMT volunteers, threatening public safety due to increased response times, officials said.

M ayor Thomas Gallagher previously told Pascack Press that a shared ambulance service a rrangement with River Vale might better suit the borough than joining with towns such as Hillsdale, which generally have many more daytime calls than Old Tappan.

Gallagher told Pascack Press that “for the most part, they [the ambulance corps] have all nights and most weekends covered.”

He added that the volunteer ambulance crew is “very active in our community” and attends all concerts at Oak Park, where they also try to recruit members.

The volunteer crew also helps cover community events such as safety nights, fire prevention week, and other local activities.

Gallagher noted that any future combination of ambulance services, possibly with River Vale, would likely remain a “big budget item to consider.”

He also mentioned that some ambulance corps members had spoken to the council last year about options for recruitment and possibly supplementing coverage with a nearby hospital EMS or the countyʼs fleet of ambulances.

Gallagher praised the local

EMS squad as fabulous and a “fabric of our community,” successfully providing emergency ambulance response from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., most weekends, and at community events for nearly a century.

He said the volunteer ambulance service addressed issues, including a lack of daytime volunteers, at a council session on Nov. 6.

Gallagher explained that the council decided not to join the study because they felt they might be “swallowed up” in a study of four towns.

He also expressed concerns about the consulting group and did not want to move toward possibly billing residents for ambulance services.

“We just felt the study really wasnʼt right for Old Tappan,” Gallagher told Pascack Press. He said they opted not to participate but currently have “other options on the table,” including pursuing a possible shared or joint service with nearby River Vale.

“We want to continue the discussions with them,” he said of River Vale.

Gallagher emphasized that while the ambulance service covers nights and weekends well, they need to figure out ways to secure better daytime coverage.

He noted that Old Tappanʼs police, fire, and EMS responders are on the same emergency channel with River Vale and reiterated that he is “not a fan of billing residents for EMS services,” as proposed in certain joint or sharedservice agreements.

He expressed hope that Bergen Countyʼs ambulance services would take a larger role in covering the countyʼs towns.

16 towns back Ghassali’s housing case; strategy pending

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Mayor Michael Ghassali said 16 towns, including Montvale, have committed funds in a coalition against the stateʼs affordable housing law. He did not disclose a legal strategy to be used to challenge the law, approved in 1985.

At press time, Aug. 22, Ghassali said Montvale and 15 other towns have committed $20,000 each over two years, passing resolutions and joint defense agree-

ments. In Bergen County: Allendale, Hillsdale, Montvale, Old Tappan, Oradell, River Vale, Washington Township, and Westwood. In Morris County: Florham Park, Montville, and Wharton. In Union County: Clark. In Salem County: Mannington. In Essex County: Millburn. In Passaic County: Totowa. Ghassali said more towns are expected to join “after completing their internal approval processes.”

The stateʼs Fair Housing Act codified decisions from the 1975 and 1983 Mount Laurel cases that

required municipalities to provide a “fair share” of opportunities for affordable housing in New Jerseyʼs towns.

Ghassali noted that 62 “urban aid” towns, which are exempt from affordable housing obligations, should be included to ease the affordable housing burdens on other suburban towns, such as Montvale, which have provided their “fair share” of affordable units over three prior rounds of affordable housing obligations.

“We are continuing to partner with other municipalities that are interested in joining us to bring a

legal challenge to the law,” Ghassali wrote in an Aug. 19 email update to residents.

“Starting this week, we will be setting up discussions between the participating municipalities and our retained law firm (King, Moench & Collins LLP) to discuss the litigation,” said the mayor.

Ghassali noted “I am expecting many more to join as these towns meet once a month in the summer, and I have several meetings scheduled with governing bodies across the state through September.”

At a recent council meeting, officials in Emerson were advised by their borough attorney not to invest taxpayer dollars in the lawsuit, noting that neither Ghassali nor the attorneys hired have yet disclosed a legal strategy. Every town in the state is expected to receive their fourthround affordable housing obligation on or around Oct. 20, “except for the 62 towns that are classified as qualified urban aid municipalities, receiving our tax dollars for over 30 years,” Ghassali said.

local PBA officials for talks on the upcoming new police contract.

The current five-year police contract, which includes police officers and sergeants, runs through Dec. 31, 2024. It has been effective

since Jan. 1, 2020.

The contract includes three pages of salary guides with step increases for officers hired before Aug. 1, 2013; after Aug. 1, 2013; and on or after Jan. 1, 2016.

The most recent guide shows a

patrolman starting at $40,050 effective Jan. 1, 2024, increasing to $72,238 after five years, and $119,063 after 10 years. Sergeants start at $152,853 effective Jan. 1, 2024.

According to the DCA on its website, “The Division of Local Government Services serves as an advocate for local government interests. We provide technical and financial assistance in budgeting, financial reporting, joint services, purchasing, and management issues.”

It adds, “Most importantly, however, we are responsible for the financial integrity of all local government units. We review and approve all municipal, county, and fire district budgets and review many local government financial actions, as well as govern and guide the conduct of local government officials.”

FROM PAGE 3

He noted that road salt is now stored in an older onsite building and was minimally affected by recent floodwaters. Plans are being considered to store it on a raised platform or move it to higher ground to mitigate future flood impacts.

The DPW site and facilities are adjacent to Pascack Brook, which often floods during light or heavy precipitation, depending on rain intensity and whether a nearby reservoir releases storm runoff to maintain its structural integrity.

The state Department of Environmental Protection previously ruledthat reservoir operator Veolia North America (formerly Suez and United Water) is not required to lower water levels in advance of a predicted severe storm. NJDEP maintains that the reservoir operator's primary objective is to provide drinking water to customers, not to mitigate or control flooding.

Reservoir releases during storms often exacerbate downstream flood impacts, adding to damages caused by storm runoff that does not fall within homeown-

ers' watersheds but is released by a dam upstream.

Ghassali praised Peterson and DPW workers for adding the storage container, following two recent flood events near the DPW facility.

Peterson stated that they had m odified the four-bay garage onsite to minimize flood damage, cleared out most of the second floor, and placed a shipping container on the second floor for additional storage. He also mentioned plans to go out for bids on a replacement lift and the relocation of one lift to a back shed.

After Ghassali commended the DPW crew for installing the storage container, Peterson said,

St. Andrew’s 50+ Club

social Sept. 4

St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club invites you to their annual Welcome Back Social on Wednesday, Sept. 4 at 1 p.m. in the gym. Admission is $5, which covers pizza, soda, cake, and coffee. New members are always welcome. For more information, call Elaine at (201)664-7037. WESTWOOD

ADVERTISEYOURSERVICEINTHE SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS

“If it wasn't for them (the crew), I wouldn't be able to get half the stuff done that we're able to get done.”

Community Center Planned for 2026

G hassali also presented a “final design” for a community center at the under-development 256-unit Patterson Street mixeduse development at the former Waste Management site. Completion of the center is planned

for late 2026.

The proposed design was shown to attendees at the Aug. 13 meeting but was not streamed. Pascack Press requested and received a copy early the next day.

The proposed center is approximately 5,000 square feet a nd includes a large meeting room, a small meeting room, storage, two offices, a warming kitchen, and restrooms.

“Hopefully, the community

will like it when all is said and done,” Ghassali said.

Late last year, the council voted to cancel plans for a comm unity center at Stonybrook Swim Club, citing the cost and apparent lack of community support. Officials said other costs, including staffing and programming, as well as competing capital projects such as improvements to recreational fields, also were considerations.

SALE LABOR DAY

benefit residents of every political affiliation. We have the energy, passion, and drive to hear all perspectives and bring commonsense solutions to the challenges of the coming years.

One of these challenges will be helping our older residents safely age in place. So many of us and our neighbors have built lives here: raising families, paying taxes, and contributing to the social fabric of our beloved community. With Lisaʼs experience as an Age-Friendly leader and advocate, and Krisʼs years as an EMT with the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps, we will apply our unique perspectives to the needs of our older residents—and their loved ones—with every decision we make on the Council.

Please join us in this vital endeavor and support our vision

for a more inclusive and dynamic Westwood Borough Council where everyone feels seen and heard. We hope to meet many of you in the coming weeks as we knock on doors and ask your opinions and suggestions on how to make Westwood an even greater place to live. We humbly ask for your vote this November 5, as we seek to be Your Voice, Your Advocates

Lisa Bontemps and Kris Rasmussen Westwood

Back in Time and Relics

author nails the story

To the editor:

THANK Kristin Beuscher, president of Pascack Historical

Society, for allowing me the opportunity to honor my mother and her family, the Gianazzas, and their contributions as Italian immigrants of the early 20 century. Kristin skillfully compiled the facts and pictures I had about Villa Gianazza into a well-written and entertaining slice of history.

In addition, I appreciate the opportunity to share the previously unknown details that my mother, Argentina Assunta Gianazza Marcucci-Roell, came from good, hard-working stock and was raised by her surrogate father, Corrado Marcucci, and adoptive mother, Giuseppina Gianazza, as their own daughter.

This might help solve the longstanding mystery of the

whereabouts of my paternal grandmother, Argentina Gianazzaʼs, resting place. It is possible that she is interred atop the casket of her son, Joseph Gianazza, my paternal grandfather. Her marriage to Wilbert Leo Roell in 1943 is noted, as is their contribution to raising their four children, the first of whom tragically died in the war 20 years later, in 1967.

I am grateful to Pascack Historical Society and Pascack Press My love goes out to my beloved mother, who was the quintessential Italian American princess and who instilled in her son, Edward, an awareness and pride of his Italian heritage, along with an eternal love of panettone Genovese and Milanese, lightly toasted with fresh butter!

Edward J. Roell Hillsdale

Editorʼs note: Kristin Beuscherʼs comprehensive “Back in Time” report “From Milan to the Manor: The Story of Villa Gianazza and Its People”in Pascack Press, Aug. 19, 2024, first appeared in the Pascack Historical Societymember newsletter Relics For more information visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org

Partnering with county drives gains

To the editor: I AMPLEASED t o report that through collaborative efforts with our county partners we are able to expedite the paving of m ore county roads within the township. I thank Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and members of the county staff for their efforts in making this project possible this year.

The resurfacing project will b egin with curb work in late August, followed by paving in September. The roads included in this project are:

• Washington Ave from the Ho-Ho-Kus line to Pascack Road.

• Van Emburgh Ave from the Ridgewood line to the Hillsdale line.

•East Glen–Ridgewood Road from Pascack Road to the Ridgewood line.

The dates are subject to c hange due to unforeseeable weather events. Work hours are slated from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Washington Township Police Department will post detour information as soon as it becomes available. Please refer to our website, twpofwashington.us, for additional updates as the county provides them to us.

This shows what happens when good working relationships are established with our partners. Over the past few years, I am proud to have worked with the county to get many things done for our township:

• The intersection project of Pascack Road and Washington Avenue.

•Paving the entire length of Pascack Road from the Paramus line to the Hillsdale line.

•And, most recently, this round of paving of more of the county roads within the township. Additionally, I have explored and executed multiple shared service agreements with the county. For years now we have been purchasing fuel for our police, fire, and DPW vehicles and equipment from the county. Many of our vehicles are now serviced and repaired by the county.

And with thanks to our grant writer, we have been the recipient of multiple grants from the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund. I cannot recall the last time we were on the receiving end of so many products, services, and money from the county.

These actions are saving the taxpayers significant money since the products and services are purchased at reduced costs as opposed to paying full retail prices.

These and many other things are what I truly enjoy doing for residents every day as their mayor.

Mayor Peter Calamari Township of Washington

WFD’s volunteers lend pomp to a lively July

Under the leadership of Fire Chief Brian Kronewitter, the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department responded to 33 emergency calls throughout July. Fortunately, none of these incidents escalated into a serious fire within the borough.

The departmentʼs operations in July included three training sessions and one maintenance night, totaling over 400 hours of volunteer service.

In addition to handling local incidents, the Westwood Fire Department was called out of town 11 times under a mutual aid agreement with neighboring fire departments. The WFD provided assistance to the Emerson Fire Department and River Vale Fire Department on five occasions each, and to the Washington Township Fire Department once.

Seven of the departmentʼs

responses were triggered by automatic fire alarms. Although none of these alarms resulted from actual fires, full fire department responses were required. In one instance, workers in a building accidentally set off an alarm, while cooking activities triggered another. Firefighters ventilated the smoke from the latter incident using fans carried on fire trucks. Two alarms were triggered with no apparent cause.

The department also investigated four reports of natural gas odors or leaks. Fire crews checked the affected areas with meters, finding slight gas readings at two incidents, where they promptly shut off the gas supply. No gas readings were detected at the other two locations, and the scenes were handed over PSE&G technicians for further investigation.

Make a difference in your community—volunteer to teach English as a Second Language! This online workshop is run by a certified trainer. The program is an accredited member of Proliteracy. Upon completion of the workshop, LVPV will match the volunteer with an appropriate student. This workshop is open to residents of Allendale, Cresskill, Dumont, Emerson, Franklin

Lakes, Hillsdale, Lodi, Montvale, Paramus, Park Ridge, Ramsey, River Vale, Teaneck, Westwood and Wyckoff. Most tutoring is in person at the libraries, but online tutoring is an option.

The next online four-session Tutor Training Workshop runs Sept. 10, 17, and 24 and Oct. 1 from 7 to 8:30 pm. Volunteers must be 18 or older Write literacyvolunteerspv@gmail.com

The Westwood Volunteer Fire Department Color Guard leads Oradell’s annual 4th of July Parade—a tradition they've upheld for 30 years.Meanwhile,Truck 1 was in Glen Rock,helping to fly Old Glory during their parade,and would soon assist the Ridgefield Park Fire Department during Bergen County's fireworks show at

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Three calls were related to carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. CO, a colorless and odorless gas, is often produced by malfunctioning heating or cooking equipment. As with gas leak calls, these incidents

required a full fire department response. No CO readings were detected at two of these locations, while the third was triggered by workers on the premises. These situations were also referred to

Marion Lorenzo, ACSW, LCSW (201) 666-1241

N.J. Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Providing Counseling & Psychotherapy, Individuals, Couples & Families, Anxiety, Depression, Co-Dependency Relationships, Loss, Self Esteem “Be The Best You Can Be”

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Other July incidents included a light smoke condition in a building, which was ventilated by fire crews after no cause was found, and a response to a motor vehicle crash that required no further action from the fire department. This report is provided by the Westwood Fire Department. For any fire department-related questions, email wwfdchief@westwoodnj.gov or call (201) 664-0526. The Fire Prevention Bureau can be reached at wfpb191@usa.net and (201) 664-7100 ext 308. Note: These are business/nonemergency phone numbers. For emergencies only, call 9-1-1.

Overpeck Park. Photo: WFD’s

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

WESTWOOD

Parkside church hosts free BBQ Sept. 8

Parkside Community Church is delighted to invite the community to its “backyard barbecue bash” on Sunday, Sept. 8 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the corner of 3rd Avenue and Park. This afternoon of fun will feature delicious food, lively music, and a great opportunity to connect with neighbors.

The event is indoors on the main level of Parkside Community Church, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming environment. Admis-

sion is free, making it an ideal event for families and individuals of all ages.

In addition to the mouthwatering BBQ fare, guests can enjoy live music and engage in meaningful conversations with fellow community members. Itʼs billed as a perfect opportunity to build connections and strengthen community bonds.

“Weʼre excited to host this BBQ as a way to bring our community together,” Pastor Rodney Have-

man tells Pascack Press “We believe that sharing food and conversation can create lasting relationships, and weʼre eager to spend this special day with everyone.”

Parkside Community Church is a welcoming and inclusive congregation dedicated to serving Westwood and the surrounding areas. The church offers programs and services aimed at supporting spiritual growth, community involvement, and personal well-being.

Call for artists, crafters, vendors

The Brookside Bazaar, now in its third year, is seeking artists, crafters, retailers, vendors, creatives, and entrepreneurs of all ages to sell their wares and participate in this highly-anticipated community event.

Encouraging shopping small to kick off the holiday season, this yearʼs event will be held on Satur-

day, Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center.

The local craft fair has been a success, welcoming more than 30 vendors and more than 400 shoppers from across Bergen County. The event supports both small businesses and the Brookside Elementary Schoolʼs Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), helping to fund stu-

MFDTexas Hold ’em Sept. 6

The Montvale Volunteer Fire Department is thrilled to announce its 100th Anniversary Poker Tournament, Friday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. at 35 West Grand Ave.

This special event will feature licensed dealers and regulation tables, offering a professionally-run Texas Hold ʻem tournament with a $5,000 prize pool for a field of 75 participants. The tournament winner will be awarded a champion bracelet and a chip bonus.

Participants can enjoy a boardwalk-themed buffet included with the $100 buy-in. Registration is open now, and payments can be made via cash, Venmo, or check.

The tournament is conducted by Mike's Poker Tables.

•Buy-in: $100 (includes boardwalk-themed buffet).

• Prize Pool: $5,000 (for a 75-player field).

•Payment Options: Cash, Venmo.

•Player seats reserved at mikespokertables.com

“Join us for a night of fun as we celebrate the Montvale Fire Departmentʼs centennial milestone!”

dent activities, enrichments, and equipment. Those looking to participate are encouraged to visit this link to register, with an early bird rate available until Sept. 3. Registration closes on Sept. 27.

Follow @BrooksideBazaar on social media for more information and updates on this yearʼs participating vendors and sponsors.

Westwood Senior Fellowship

Sept. 10

The Westwood Senior Fellowship kicks off its lively fall season on Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 11:30 a.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. Cake and coffee will be served, and the guest speaker will be Janelle Larghi of Meals on Wheels North Jersey. Sign up then for the Dec. 10 luncheon, which also marks the fellowshipʼs 65th anniversary party.

Club president Mary Cerrati says, “See you there!”

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Giulio’s Restaurant ForFresh, Homemade Seasonal Cuisine

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

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

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

Yes, please: Try theyellowfin tuna at Giulio’s Restaurant. Try everything!

Appetizers as works of art.

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 décor 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

dining:

Your party will be a success

Giulio’s Restaurant

at Giulio’s.

Destination

Giulio’s Restaurant, 154 Washington St., Tappan, N.Y.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

The Woman’s Club of Westwood and its The Contemporaries committee are an especially effective engine of philanthropy.For more information,call the membership chair at (201) 916-1580 or visit WestwoodWomansClub.org.

Women rally for charity at Garden Party

The Garden Party, held on Aug. 15, is a membersʼsocial event founded by The Contemporaries committee of GFWC/NJSFWC The Womanʼs Club of Westwood.

This midsummer gathering offers an opportunity to wine and dine in a backyard setting while celebrating the clubʼs largest beneficiaries—organizations that received donations throughout the club year.

The club reports, “A total of $1,125 was donated to Celebrate Westwood Arts Hub to support the arts in our community, and $500 was donated to Meals on Wheels of North Jersey These funds were raised through the clubʼs signature social events earlier in the year, including Dueling Pianos, a public charity event, and The Contemporaries Committee Annual Progressive Dinner in April.

Members also contributed school snacks for local students, which were donated to the Bor-

oughʼs Back to School Drive.

The club says, “Thank you to venue host Kathy Dean, cochairs Anna Liu and Heather Govic, and the entire committee who volunteered to make this event a success.”

For more info call The Contemporaries membership chairman at (201) 916-1580 or visit WestwoodWomansClub.org.

—Via Madeleine Ciocco

Left to right: Jennifer Sirchio,second vice president co-chair;Mary Ceratti, corresponding secretary;Madeleine Ciocco,recording secretary;Deen Meloro, president; Geraldine Bree,second vice president co-chair;Lynda Bager,first vice president co-chair; and Nicole Dragona,first vice president co-chair. Photos via Madeleine Ciocco

Montessori school wins year extension on ‘Charlie Brown’s’

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Apple Montessori Schools, which plans to construct an early childhood education school at 95 Linwood Ave., prominent site of a defunct Charlie Brownʼs restaur ant, was granted a one-year extension of the Zoning Boardʼs 2023 approval of its amended site plan application.

The board on Aug. 20 voted, 5-0, to approve the extension following a brief discussion.

T he amended site plan, approved last summer, reduced the size of the school from 2.5 stories to one and reduced the overall building size from

Promotional image from C liffside Park Montessori Preschool and Daycare.

approximately 18,743 square feet to 10,469. The first-story footprint increased from 8,000 square feet to approximately 10,469 square feet. Thirty-three onsite parking spaces are planned.

See Zoning Board Resolution 23-08 for full details. The resolution, approved in August 2023, can be found on the boardʼs website. For prior Pascack Press articles, search Montessori on our website.

Residents watching the property—closed since the 2020 pandemic and acquired by Apple Montessori School in 2022—can expect to see construction commence on the schoolʼs amended site plan this year or in 2025.

Attorney Duncan Prime of Prime, Tuvel & Miceli in Hackensack said that Montessori was required to seek a one-year extension of its Zoning Board site plan approval if construction did not commence within one year of approval.

The boardʼs approval included a use variance for the site, which is in the townshipʼs “AA” or residential zone. The Montessori school was considered an inherently beneficial use for the site, a major reason for its Zoning Board approval.

Prior to the schoolʼs purchase of the site, the township— threatening possible eminent domain—moved to purchase the site in early 2022 for a new Department of Public Works facility and later for a possible expanded police department headquarters. Pushback from residents here and in Paramus, and mounting costs on environmental studies, combined to scuttle both possible uses.

However, Apple Montessori School officials told Pascack Press in late 2022 that they had no concerns about contamination based on their due diligence.

We reported last July that a revised site plan application for the Apple Montessori School showed a square footage of nearly 56% less, and not two stories, as the Zoning Board of Adjustment approved in March, but now

rather one.

The school was proposed to host a camp and accommodate 154 youngsters on site. Approxi mately 60 people, including teachers and administrative staff, will likely be employed at the facility, with generally no more than 25 workers on site at any one time, the applicant said in March 2023.

T hose numbers did not change in the wake of the amended application, said the attorney.

About Apple Montessori

Schools

According to AppleMontessoriSchools.com, when you enter an Apple Montessori classroom “What you wonʼt see is a teacher standing in front of a classroom delivering a lecture. I nstead, youʼl l find children engaged in various age-appropriate activities, guided by their teacher and motivated to learn by their natural interests and capabilities.”

The site says, “You might find a child busy with a buttonsewing project in one area, while another child completes a puzzle nearby These carefully selected activities, and many others, are hands-on projects that children can engage in and experience for themselves, when they choose. The activities encourage children to use all five senses to discover the world around them.”

The site notes, “Within the Montessori philosophy of child development and education, the teacherʼs role is to observe the students and facilitate learning by guiding and mentoring them in their individual learning journeys.”

95 Linwood Ave. in the Township of Washington is going to be remade as an Apple Montessori School. Construction is expected this year or in 2025. John Snyder photo.

Owls:

FROM PAGE 1

games undefeated, securing the top seed in the playoffs.

In the semifinals, Park Ridge faced Wood-Ridge again, showcasing their championship mettle in a hard-fought 6-4 victory at Colony Field. Catcher Bryce Hamilton ignited the offense with a first-inning double, driving in three runs. Johnny Pierottiʼs clutch catch in left field in the sixth inning sealed the win, sending the Owls back to the finals with redemption on their minds.

In the championship game against River Edge, the Owls left no doubt about who the best team was. Pitchers Nolan Rosa, Niko Franolic, and Brody Weiss combined for five scoreless innings, stifling River Edgeʼs offense. Thomas Smith led the charge at the plate, going 3-for-3 with two RBIs as Park Ridge cruised to a commanding 10-0 mercy-rule victory, claiming the spring champi-

onship.

As the summer season began, the team was hungry to defend their title. They opened with a gritty 1-0 win over Teaneck, followed by an 11-4 drubbing of the Northern Valley Norsemen. The victories kept coming, with Montvale and Cresskill falling to the Owlsʼrelentless attack, highlighted by Bennett Broganʼs towering home run and blasts from Nathan Kida and Dylan Jobst.

The Owlsʼwinning streak was snapped in a 5-4 loss at River Edge, but they regrouped, defeating Fort Lee 5-1 to clinch the first overall seed in the playoffs.

In the semifinals, Park Ridge faced New Milford. Trailing 3-1 heading into the bottom of the sixth inning, the Owls dug deep. A string of clutch walks set the stage for Sohan Shah, who delivered a game-winning single into center field, sending the Owls back to the summer championship game.

Front to back, left to right, spring champs Brody Weiss, Sohan Shah, Bryce Hamilton, Niko Franolic, Nolan Rosa. Back row: Dylan Jobst, Bennett Brogan, Nathan Kida, Johnny Pierotti, Thomas Smith, Danny Ramcharan. Thomas Smith photo

The championship rematch against Teaneck at Colony Field was tense. Park Ridge struck first, with lead-off hitter Brody Weiss drawing a walk, stealing third, and scoring on Dylan Jobstʼs fielderʼs choice.

N athan Kida tossed two scoreless innings before Teaneck took a slim lead in the third. The Owls, displaying championship discipline, worked consecutive walks in the bottom of the fourth to reclaim a 3-2 lead.

With a one-run lead and two innings left, Park Ridge turned to their closer, Dylan Jobst. The right-hander was electric, striking out six batters to secure the Summer championship. Franolic earned the win and combined

WESTWOOD

Chamber ‘Citizens of the Year’ Gala

The Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that it will be honoring Robin Malley and Jeff Jasper this fall.

Robin Malley, a previous chamber president, has been involved with several non-profit organizations while building a successful career in real estate sales and management over her 30-plus years in Bergen County.

Jeff Jasper, a 50-plus-year educator at Pascack Valley High School, is the winningest girlsʼbasketball coach in the state of

‘Holistic health’ focus on PKRG-TV

PKRG-TV presents Episode 5 of its Well-Being series, featuring holistic health practitioner Karen Overgaard, LPN. Overgaard is a reiki master, registered yoga teacher, infant-massage instructor, lactation specialist, and postpartum doula, as well as a provider of health and nutrition counseling. The program is hosted by PKRG-TVʼs Lori Fredrics. Demonstrations of self-care healing modalities designed to help viewers improve their mind-body wellness. Catch the program on PKRG-TV on Optimum Ch. 77 (Park Ridge) and Verizon FIOS Ch. 22 (Bergen County). For broadcast times visit pkrgtv.com

MALLEY JASPER

New Jersey He is involved with many non-profit organizations that help our schools and communities.

Financial donations will be made to the recipientsʼgroups of

WESTWOOD

choice.

The event is Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Seasons Catering, 644 Pascack Road in the Township of Washington. Tickets are $125 if purchased by Sept. 15, and $150 thereafter.

For more information on ticket purchases, sponsorships, program advertising, and tricky tray donations, check with pascackchamber.org from Friday, Aug. 23.

Photos via Corcoran and Curstine Guevarra/The Valley Echo, respectively.

Woman’s Club meets Sept. 12

Tthe GFWC/NJSFWC

Womanʼs Club of Westwood meets Thursday, Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. at the clubhouse on Kinderkamack Road. Focus is on planning for the year; all are welcome to attend. Women

RIVER VALE

Join the Fun with Chess in the Park, in partnership with River Vale Recreation, starting Friday, Sept. 13. The eight-session program at Mark Lane Pavilion is open to participants ages 5 through

residing in the Pascack Valley are invited to join to make new friends, have fun, develop new skills, and work with like-minded women. To learn more, call the membership chairman at (201) 916-1580.

adult. Chess sets will be provided by New Jersey Sports Academy LLC. The cost is $160 for all eight classes. (646) 541-3976 or email newjerseysportsacademy@gmail. com to register

w ith Kida and Jobst for 15 strikeouts.

The Owls excelled all season. At the plate, the team was led by Dylan Jobst (.390), N athan Kida (.383), Bryce Hamilton (.380), Nolan Rosa (.370), Brody Weiss (.356), and T homas Smith (.306). Jobst paced the team in RBIs with 24, followed by Hamilton (23), Kida (22), Rosa (21), Franolic (20), Brogan (18), Smith (14), and Danny Ramcharan (11).

On the mound, Brogan and Rosa led with four wins each, while Franolic, Weiss, Kida, and Jobst added three victories apiece.

The defense was rock-solid, anchored by catcher Bryce Hamilton and outfielders Ryan Klos, Pierotti, and Ramcharan.

Led by manager Eric Rosa and coaches Shaun Hamilton, Leigh Weiss, Adam Kida, and Tom Brogan, the Owls compiled a 20-1 overall record, clinching back-to-back titles in another season to remember.

Team submission

Elks lodge charity

Texas Hold ‘em Sept. 7

Westwood Elks Lodge #1562 hosts a Texas Hold ʻem tournament on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 7 p.m. to benefit a range of charitable causes.

The lodge, at 523 Kinderkamack Road in Westwood, will open its doors at 6:15 p.m., with the tournament starting at 7. All proceeds from the event will support various charities, including programs for youth, veterans, food pantries, special needs children, and senior citizens. For more information, call the lodge at (201)666-1562.

PARK RIDGE

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Beat dizziness: effective treatments, new specials

D izziness comes in many forms, includi ng sensations of spinning, feeling pulled in different directions, or experiencing poor balance. The most common type is BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal

Positional Vertigo), which causes intense but brief vertigo, typically when turning over in bed. Itʼs often treated effectively with the Epley Maneuver, where a doctor

repositions crystals in the inner ear.

Meniereʼs disease is another c ause of vertigo, though less common than BPPV. It often starts in one ear, accompanied by low-tone hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and ear pressure. Managing it can involve r educing salt intake, avoiding caffeine, and quitting smoking.

Vasovagal syncope and P OTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) cause lightheadedness due to sudden drops in blood pressure or heart rate, particularly when standing up quickly. These conditions can

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sometimes lead to fainting, which can be dangerous if it results in a fall. Consulting a functional neurologist can help improve blood flow, blood pressure, and heart rate.

M edications, particularly those for high blood pressure, can also cause dizziness. If this is the c ase, speak with your doctor a bout alternative medications. Additionally, hypoglycemia, or l ow blood sugar, can lead to dizziness, especially if you go too long without eating. Regular, small meals can help prevent this.

D izziness can result from brain injuries, such as from a concussion, car accident, or stroke, and is sometimes diagnosed as vestibular migraines. Treatments like hyperbaric oxygen therapy, neurofeedback, and infrared laser therapy, combined with brain exercises, have shown promise in improving brain function and reducing dizziness in these cases.

Infections, including Lyme disease, parasites, yeast, the flu, o r COVID-19, can also cause dizziness. Natural remedies like garlic, ginger, Maitake mushrooms, coconut oil, and turmeric may help fight infections and reduce inflammation. Environmental factors, such as mold exposure or heavy metal toxicity, can also be culprits. These can be diagnosed through blood tests, and addressing your environment may be necessary, such as testing your home or water supply.

Preventing dizziness involves taking precautions: rise slowly from bed, turn on lights if you get up at night, and avoid sudden movements. For a thorough diagnosis, a doctor might use tests like VNG (Video nystagmography) or VOG (video oculography), which provide detailed insights into

brain function beyond what an MRI or CT scan can show. These tests are non-invasive, involve no radiation, and only take about 15 minutes.

T his month, our Emerson office offers a special on these VNG/VOG tests. Normally priced at $500, you can get the complete exam for only $21 during August, which also includes a free copy of my book, “Boost Your Brain Power: A Guide to Improv ing Your Memory and Focus.”

Additionally, if you are a new patient who signs up for the exam, you will receive a FREE hyperbaric oxygen therapy session (normally $175). This therapy may help with a variety of conditions, including headaches, dizziness, energy levels, memory, nerve pain, skin conditions, brain fog, mold exposure, Lyme disease, and many hospitals are now using it to help treat COVID long-haulers.

Improve your brain function and reduce symptoms of dizziness. If you or someone you know is suffering from these conditions, email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com or call (646) 221-6738 to schedule your exam.

Child safety fest

HILLSDALE

Mark your calendars for a day of fun, education, and community as Joanʼs Joy hosts its 10th Annual Child Safety Festival—remembering Joanʼs legacy through the book and documentary—on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 2 to 5 p.m. This free event is at the White Butterfly Sculpture & Garden at the Hillsdale Train Station on Broadway

The festival, dedicated to the memory of Joan Angela DʼAlessandro, aims to promote child safety and bring families together for a day filled with activities and entertainment. The event will feature a fun area for children

with face painting and balloon twisting, ensuring a delightful experience for the youngest attendees.

Highlights of the festival include a tricky tray and 50/50 raffle, with winners announced at the event. The schedule for the day is as follows:

• 2 p.m.: Welcoming and joining in a circle.

• 2:30: Guest speaker

• 3: Butterfly release.

• 3:30: Live entertainment.

•4:45: Raffle winners are announced.

The rain date is Sept. 29. For more information on this event and the wider mission visit joansjoy.org or write rosebd@email.com

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Joan’s Joy

Voices:

FROM PAGE 1 dum highlights.

These brief videos include “Lower Cost, More State Aid,” with board president Justin Saxon; “Listening to Our Community,” with board vice president Christina Jennings; “Options Explored,” with trustee Salvatore Sileo; “Daily Challenges Inside George White,” with trustee Michael Kenduck; and “George White: Cornerstone of Hillsdale,” with trustee Kevin Donatello.

Lombardy also noted that residents can view the virtual forum held on Aug. 7 by visiting the district referendum website. The video includes a presentation on “Modernizing the Middle School,” which details the two questions on the referendum.

Question 1 proposes the full renovation of George White Middle School at a cost of $55,306,000, with $18 million in state aid. Question 2 proposes building a new two-story wing with six classrooms for projected enrollment increases and STEM classes, costing $7,052,000. No state aid was awarded for this new building construction.

Officials emphasize that Question 1 “must pass for Question 2 to pass.” Should voters reject Question 1 but approve Question 2, neither proposal would pass, notes the website.

When Pascack Press reviewed the trusteesʼnew YouTube videos on Aug. 19, the “Lower Cost, More State Aid” video had 65 views, while the others averaged around 50 views each. School officials have said that an average assessed home will pay approximately $840 more in property taxes should the referendum pass.

As of late July, the total number of registered local voters stood at 8,620, according to the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office Elections Division. The registered voter breakdown included 2,625 Democrats, 2,469 Republicans, 3,473 unaffiliated voters, and fewer than 50 voters registered to the Green Party, Liberal Party, Natural Law Party, and Socialist Party.

Aug. 27 is the deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot for the referendum. Additional voting information can be found on the districtʼs website.

Varied voices on referendum

Pascack Press recently reached out to public officials and residents for comments on the referendum. While most were reluctant to speak on the record, two council members, the current mayor, and one resident shared their views.

Councilwoman Abby Lundy and former councilor Anthony DeRosa, who served as BOE liaison and ran unsuccessfully for mayor, shared their perspectives.

Lundy said she felt the board was doing a “much better job” in providing information to residents for the upcoming referendum.

She said, “I think the Superintendent and the Board of Education are doing a much better job this time getting information out to the public through their new Facebook page (Hillsdale Public Schools), as well as a virtual presentation on Aug. 7 and a public Q&A at the Aug. 26 BOE meeting.”

She said, “Theyʼve also attended community events and made themselves available for discussion and questions. I think most residents want information and an understanding of the project and financing and how it will affect their property taxes.”

And she said, “As you know, the governing body is a separate entity from the BOE, and we have no purview or jurisdiction over the BOE. Weʼre only responsible for the municipal portion of the property tax, which accounts for approximately 20% of the total bill.”

Lundy said, “While Iʼm in favor of the borough disseminating as much information as possible so that residents can be properly informed before casting their vote in the referendum, I think my personal view is irrelevant. When I hear from or speak to residents, I ask them to reach out to the superintendent with any questions and to be as informed as possible. I have no sense of how the vote will go based on these conversations or what I read on social media or in the press.”

She said, “I hope that the time leading up to the referendum will be less polarizing than the last time, as we all live in the same community and will continue to do so after the vote.”

Former councilman Anthony DeRosa, who also served as council liaison to the local school board, acknowledged that “Itʼs a tough pill to swallow,” but emphasized that “something has to be done now to remedy this situation for the long term.”

“People settle in Hillsdale for different reasons: proximity to transportation, parks and recreational facilities, the charm of a working farm, and amenities like Stonybrook Swim Club. One of the most important reasons young families settle here is the exceptional elementary schools and high school. A good school system keeps families coming to town and keeps Hillsdale vibrant in many ways,” DeRosa said.

He said, “The George White school was old when I went there –and that was a long time ago! We can question why more significant investments havenʼt been made to the school over the years, but we will still come back to the same place – the school is outdated and just a day away from significant, costly repairs, and something has to be done to address that.”

And he said, “I understand that this is a difficult financial decision for many residents or that they may not even have children in the Hillsdale public schools. For those people, I suggest you look at the referendum as an investment, an investment in your property value that you will recoup a portion of once you sell. I believe that

people are more likely to pay a premium for a home in a town with a school system thatʼs in demand.”

DeRosa said, “I know itʼs a tough pill to swallow, but something has to be done now to remedy this situation for the long term because the building isnʼt getting any younger and the costs wonʼt be getting any lower if we wait.”

Renovationʼs cost:

ʻVery concerning to manyʼ

Resident Adam Hampton, an opponent of the first referendum, acknowledged that “something needs to be done” but expressed concern about the cost.

“We feel that the proposed referendum cost is still too expensive for the residents of Hillsdale. Residents have been dealing with higher costs of most goods and services due to inflation over the last three years. Homeownersʼ insurance rates are increasing drastically. People are getting rate increases of anywhere from 27% to 90%,” Hampton said.

“In February, PSEG proposed rate increases, which people are now starting to see in their bills, averaging around $25 more per month. We are seeing increases in municipal, county, and school taxes that do not include the proposed referendum tax,” he added.

He said, “Seniors and those on fixed incomes are being disproportionately affected by these increases. The senior tax freeze will not help people with inflationary costs, homeownersʼinsurance rate increases, and utility bills increasing.”

He offered, “My only suggestion would have been for the district to have an open request for proposals process to solicit multiple architectural firms to submit concepts, plans, and costs. This way, they could have seen different ideas, and probably different costs.”

Hampton said, “Little Ferry School District passed a referendum for a $38 million new school. I would urge all residents to go to the New Jersey School Boards Association website and examine the referendum data that they have. At the end of the day, we all realize that something needs to be done. Everyone I speak to acknowledges it. The cost is very concerning to many people. Ultimately, everyone needs to make their own personal decision.”

Mayor Sheinfield: No ʻcrystal ballʼ

As a Democratic mayor helming a council of six Republicans, Mayor Michael Sheinfield hears from residents and urges them to “seek out the facts” about the referendum.

Sheinfield told us, “I regularly hear from people throughout Hillsdale on a variety of issues, and this is one I hear about most often. To a

person, everyone has said the school is in need of repairs/renovations. As expected, a mix of people see the benefits of making the investment and there are those who do not. If there was consensus among voters, we wouldnʼt be going back to the polls on Sept. 17.”

He said, “I donʼt have a crystal ball on this one. People have

expressed their concerns to me about what happens if the school remains in its current state because the referendum fails, and concerns about the ramifications of significant renovations should it pass. I strongly encourage the residents of Hillsdale to seek out the facts on this important issue from credible sources and cast their votes accordingly.”

Franco Statella’s Salon Cuts

666-1616.

WOODCLIFFLAKE

Franco Statella boasts a legacy of 65 years in the hairstyling industry, a feat few can match. Beginning his career as a barber in Sicily, Italy, at 14, he has since refined his skills in New York City and Bergen County. His commitment to excellence has earned him acclaim as one of the most interesting men in the room, always leaving a lasting impression with his exceptional hairstyles.

You can visit Franco at his new location, Salon Cuts, 84 Broadway, Woodcliff Lake, (201) 666-1616.

Franco Statella photos From Sicily to Woodcliff Lake: Visit FrancoStatellaat his new location, Salon Cuts, 84 Broadway in Woodcliff Lake. Call (201)

ASK THESE FOUR QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU PREPARE FOR RETIREMENT

To determine how much you will need to fund your retirement, itʼs helpful to estimate what your budget will look like. These four questions could help you identify your retirement lifestyle and plan for the related costs.

What will I be doing?

• Do I plan to continue working past age 65 or after I reach my full retirement age? Full time or part time?

• Are there hobbies I want to pursue that will either cost money or make money?

• Is there volunteer work that may also have costs associated?

• Do I plan to travel? Where?

• Are there things I enjoy that have related costs?

Where will I be living?

• Will I stay in my current home or downsize to something smaller or a rental property?

• Will I move to a retirement community or assisted living facility?

• Will I sell my home and replace it with an RV or other alternative living option?

What situations could impact my

expenditures?

• What health care coverage do I need for my health conditions?

• Do I have an emergency fund for unexpected situations such as a health care crisis or property loss due to a natural disaster?

• What if I stop working sooner than expected?

• What happens if I experience a significant income loss?

What barriers are keeping me from investing?

• I have nothing extra to invest.

• I have education loans or other debt.

• I donʼt know how to start an investment plan.

• I have time to start saving later.

Investment and Insurance Products are:

• Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency

• Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate

• Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested

Next steps

Prepare rather than panic. Create an outline from your answers to these questions. It should give you the framework to calculate the income you may need to support your retirement lifestyle. Decide to adjust your spending patterns today. Choose something you really donʼt need and redirect that amount into your retirement savings. Take advantage of growth potential over time. Pay yourself first instead of spending money on something that wonʼt support your future

retirement needs. Creating that nest egg now could reduce your stress about money.

Start or add to an emergency fund. Even if the amount seems very small, itʼs important to take the first step. As that amount grows and the behavior becomes a habit, you will likely gain confidence and momentum in your investment activities.

Meet with a financial advisor to review your answers and turn your outline into a plan to help you work toward your goals.

This article has been prepared for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation or an offer to buy any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy Investing involves risk including the possible loss of principle. Asset allocation cannot eliminate the risk of fluctuating prices and uncertain returns. The accuracy and completeness of this information is not guaranteed and is subject to change. Since each investorʼs situation is unique you need to review your specific investment objectives, risk tolerance and liquidity needs with your financial professional(s) before an appropriate investment strategy can be selected.

Also, since Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide tax or legal advice, investors need to consult with their own tax and legal advisors before taking any action that may have tax or legal consequences.

This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director - Investments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.

SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS.

Criminal Charges Do Not Make

ERIC KOHLMEIER

FROM PAGE 1

$500,000 dispute with the Borough of Emerson over unpaid construction services. Legal battles are ongoing, with trial dates yet to be set.

Accurate Builders, along with JMF Properties, are the partners behind Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal (ERUR), a partnership that has yet to complete a nearly six-year-old project known as Citizen Emerson Station—a 147unit mixed-use development with 15,000 square feet of retail space under construction near the boroughʼs train station.

The massive downtown redevelopment project was approved in late 2018, during the waning days of immediate past mayor Louis Lamatinaʼs administration. The project awaits a new Superior Court trial date for Emersonʼs over fouryear-old lawsuit to recoup $500,000 in construction services allegedly owed in exchange for a deed to the former ambulance property that ERUR received in 2019.

In mid-June, attorneys for Crown Bank of Elizabeth filed a three-count civil action complaint against Accurate Builders and Kenilworth Redevelopers Urban Renewal for mortgage foreclosure, foreclosure of a security interest in mortgaged property, and possession of the mortgaged property.

Efforts to reach Crown Bankʼs attorney, Mark Roney, of Hill Wallack LLP, Princeton, for comment were not returned by press time.

“The borrowers defaulted

Cody of JMFProperties

in April 2024. Accurate Builders had publicized a fall 2023 opening. John Snyder photo.

under the loan documents by failing, without limitation, to replenish the reserve after the balance fell below $100,000, and failing to make the monthly payments when due, resulting in the payments being past due beginning with the payment due Dec. 2, 2023, and for each subsequent month thereafter,” states the civil complaint.

The complaint was filed in Superior Court, Union County, by attorneys for Crown Bank, Elizabeth. Crown Bank demands “possession of the mortgaged property, the fixtures and other personal property attached hereto” and “damages for mesne profits,” or profits received by a tenant in wrongful possession of land, along with attorney fees, disbursements, and further relief per the court, according to the complaint.

According to the foreclosure notice, the borrowers defaulted on the $8 million mortgage loan from Crown Bank when they first failed to replenish the mortgage reserve after it fell below $100,000.

To initiate the loan, the mortgagors were required to establish a mortgage reserve of $540,000 solely for making payments during the loanʼs first 24 months. Should the reserve fall below $100,000, the borrowers were required to replenish it to $540,000, which did not occur, according to the complaint.

Moreover, they failed to make monthly payments starting in December 2023 and for every month thereafter, according to the foreclosure complaint.

The bankʼs lawsuit states, “As a result of the borrowersʼ defaults under the loan documents, Crown

(Bank) has elected to accelerate the amounts due and proceed with a foreclosure of the mortgaged property (25 North 26th Street, Lot 9, Block 183, Kenilworth), seeking possession thereof, and to sell the tangible personal property located at the mortgaged property.”

“This same company (Accurate Builders) has been delaying and not doing anything on our (Emerson) site,” borough attorney John McCann told Pascack Press Previously, he said that the redevelopment contract approved

Left:Kevin

presents at Borough Hall on a proposed Block 419 overhaul in 2016. The project passed over many residents’ and property owners’ objections, and construction appears stalled amid the redeveloper’s financial and legal woes. File photo. Right: Construction appears long stalled at Emerson Station on Kinderkamack,

Tax credit can offset day camp expenses

The Internal Revenue Service on Aug. 19 reminded taxpayers that summer day camp expenses may count towards the Child and Dependent Care tax credit.

Many working parents arrange for care of their younger children under age 13 during the summer. A popular solution is a day camp program, which can sometimes also lead to a tax benefit. Taxpayers who pay for the care of a child, or other qualifying person, so they could work or look for work may be able to take the credit for child and dependent care expenses.

Unlike overnight camps, the cost of day camp may count as an expense towards the Child and Dependent Care credit.

Taxpayers must have earned income to claim this credit. The credit is calculated based on income and a percentage of expenses incurred for the care of qualifying people to enable taxpayers to work, look for work or attend school.

Depending on income, taxpayers can get a credit worth up to 35% of their qualifying childcare expenses. At minimum, itʼs 20% of those expenses. For 2024, the maximum

eligible expense for this credit is $3,000 for one qualifying person and $6,000 for two or more.

Reimbursed expenses, such as from a state social services agency, must first be deducted as work-related expenses used to calculate the amount of the credit.

IRS Publication 503, Child and Dependent Care Expenses, and IRS.gov explain all the rules, the tests needed to claim the credit and describes an exception for certain taxpayers living apart from their spouse and meeting other requirements.

PARK RIDGE

International Overdose Awareness Day

The Park Ridge Municipal Alliance is participating in a countywide effort to raise awareness for International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31. Purple flags and signage will be displayed in Park Ridge and surrounding towns to inform the public about the prevalence of substance misuse and the resources available in our county. Mental illness and substance use are diseases, not choices.

This yearʼs slogan is “Time to Remember. Time to Act.” By acknowledging the lives lost and raising awareness, the alliance hopes people will reach out for support and treatment.

The Park Ridge Municipal Alliance tells Pascack Press, “In Bergen County alone, there are approximately 13 fatalities each

month, totaling 153 per year. Alarmingly, 90% of overdose fatalities involve fentanyl-laced drugs. Overdose is preventable, and help is available. We must raise awareness and support anyone facing a mental health or substance use challenge.”

It says, “The national crisis line, 988, is available 24/7 by call or text to assist anyone in need of help with a mental health or addiction-related crisis. County resources can be found at co.bergen.nj.us/mental-health-addiction-services/treatment-programs-andresources

The Park Ridge Municipal Alliance will have informational tables at upcoming town events, offering a variety of resources. “If you see us, please stop by!”

Emerson:

FROM PAGE 21

in 2018 under the prior mayorʼs administration contains no dates or timetables, and the borough cannot force Accurate to finish construction by imposing legal or financial penalties, as none are included in the contract.

He said long-term options may include repossessing Block 419 through eminent domain if construction of Emerson Station is not

Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 hosts its Annual Charity Picnic on Saturday, Sept. 7. The event is open to the public and will take place rain or shine from 1 to 6 p.m. at the K of C Pfliegler Pavilion and Picnic Grove, at the rear of 79 Pascack Road.

A tent will cover the picnic area to ensure comfort regardless of weather conditions.

The picnic offers a variety of activities for both children and adults. Kids can enjoy the inflatable

completed in a timely manner.

He suggested that given Accurate Buildersʼcash flow struggles, it might also be struggling to obtain the funds needed to restart construction on the Emerson site.

Accurate Builders is a joint partner in the development of Emerson Station, a 147-unit mixed-use project in downtown Emerson. Only last month, attorneys for the redeveloper asked the Superior Court judge to delay a trial scheduled for Sept. 3 over Emersonʼs four-yearold lawsuit against the redeveloper.

The lawsuit centers on the redeveloperʼs decision to renege on

bounce house, while adults can participate in the traditional horseshoe and bocce ball tournaments.

The menu features a delicious array of BBQ ribs, chicken, flank steak, burgers, hot dogs, sausage and peppers, clams on the half shell, macaroni and cheese, popcorn, Jersey corn, watermelon, dessert, and hot and cold beverages, including adult beverages.

Tickets purchased in advance are $40 for adults and $35 for seniors (60 plus). At the gate, tickets are

paying Emerson $500,000 in construction services in exchange for a property deed to the boroughʼs former ambulance property.

The redeveloper alleged the borough failed to meet a Dec. 31, 2019, deadline to provide a site, plans, and permits for a new ambulance building.

No new trial date has been set.

The redeveloper has challenged large portions of Emersonʼs testimony related to their claims that the redeveloper operated in “bad faith” and refused to negotiate any terms to extend the deadline.

For case filings and updates,

$45 for adults and $40 for seniors. Children 5–12 are $15, while those under 5 are free. A family cap of $75 is available for parents and their children under 20. Picnic tables available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets can be purchased at the Councilʼs Members Room, Monday through Friday, 3:30 to 7 p.m. For reservations, call the council at (201) 664-0422 or email kofc5427@gmail.com. For membership information, call (201) 6640422 or visit kofc5427.com

residents can search for BER-L003359-20 on New Jersey eCourts Civil Case Public Access at https://www.njcourts.gov/public/find -a-case/civil-case-public-access.

The redeveloper claims Emerson made no efforts to meet the Dec. 31, 2019, deadline, alleging that the mayor opposed the development. Emerson alleges the redeveloper refused to negotiate on the deadline.

McCann said ERUR offered $250,000 in 2020 to settle the claims against them, but Emerson declined the offer and later filed a lawsuit over the $500,000 owed in June 2020.

Other ʻEmerson Stationʼ Problems

A subcontractor working on the construction of Emerson Station previously filed a civil complaint and construction lien claim against the developer, Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal, to recover slightly over $1.4 million it claims it is owed.

The subcontractor, BFS Group LLC, of Mount Laurel, filed a civil complaint against Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal (ERUR) on March 21 in Superior Court, Hackensack, for $1.4 million “plus interest, costs, and reasonable attorneyʼs fees,” according to the complaint.

The complaint notes that if the judgment for owed funds goes against ERUR and is not satisfied by the defendant, the “real property” (i.e., Emerson Station) owned by the defendants may be sold to pay for the unpaid debt.

The new lawsuit against ERUR is for nearly three times the $500,000 that the borough claims it is also

owed for a deed it provided to ERUR in exchange for construction services that were never provided.

The plaintiffs in the current lawsuit, BFS Group LLC, of Mount Laurel, filed a civil complaint in Superior Court, Hackensack, alleging that Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal, or Accurate Builders, of Lakewood, have not yet paid them $1,406,233.52 owed under a contract for work performed through Feb. 9, 2024.

The $1.4 million-plus in dispute was payment for furnishing and installing framing, construction goods, supplies, materials, and providing all labor and materials needed for agreed-upon work, according to the complaint.

An order from Superior Court Pretrial Judge Peter G. Geiger assigned 300 days, or approximately 10 months, for discovery between the parties to gather information and arrange depositions needed to make their mutual cases.

“Discovery …runs from the first answer or 90 days from service on the first defendant, whichever comes first,” states the courtʼs order. That could put a trial date in early 2025, following discovery.

The civil complaint notes that the original subcontract with BFS Group LLC was for $4,100,000, which was amended to $3,847,761. The complaint notes that ERUR paid only $2,441,527.48 of the amended contract and owes the difference, $1,406,233.52.

On Aug. 5, the parties were ordered into mediation. It is unclear if any dates for that were set.

Local:

FROM PAGE 4

Liberty Baseball Club, and it is possible that the club will appear in uniform on Saturday. They will play the Spring Valley team at that place. The following Saturday, the Libertys meet the River Edge Field Club on their grounds.

• Miss Elvina Campbell, in the company of some City friends, will leave here on Monday for Fallsburg, Liberty County, N.Y., where they expect to spend a fortnight.

• An inspector employed by the Hackensack Water Company has visited this section. Several parties have been notified to abate what are alleged to be pollutions of streams.

•Rev. Edward Lodewick [of

Westwood

FROM PAGE 4 the borough.”

As clerk, Hughes was made interim administrator briefly in 2015 when the borough was “in between” administrators, she told us, and to part-time assistant borough administrator in August 2021, as well as deputy OEM coordinator in January 2024. She was appointed CRS (Community Rating System) coordinator for

the Congregational Church] will take his annual vacation during the month of August. He will be absent until the 26th of the month. The church will not be closed during his absence.

• Quite a number of boarders are staying with Joseph Peragallo and Pasquale Lamanna, south of Ridge Avenue.

•The Local force will not go to the mountains this summer to spend their vacation. The street in front of the office [on Park Avenue] furnishes a sufficiently rocky aspect to satisfy their longings for mountain scenery for some time to come.

• An Ohio man has gotten himself into some trouble with the postal authorities by advertising to send ten yards of silk for quilting purposes for ten cents. In reply, he mailed ten yards of silk thread. Several persons from this vicinity

FEMAʼs homeowner flood insurance program in July 2024.

“As much as I have enjoyed being borough clerk, the time was right for both the borough and myself to step away from that position. Now I can focus on special projects, such as the FEMA elevation grant, as well as help lighten the load that our Borough Administrator/CFO carries. Iʼve no doubt that Jean-Marie will do a terrific job as borough clerk, and I get to use all the experience and knowledge I gained as clerk in a new way, which is pretty exciting,” Hughes told Pascack Press

responded to the advertisement.

• “Ignorance of the law excuses no man”—not even a Justice of the Peace. He owes it to himself and to the public as well to have some knowledge of the statutes.

• Rev. Mr. Carle, pastor of the A.M.E. Church, announces that a camp meeting will be held by his church this year in the grove near Foresters Hall [on Kinderkamack

HILLSDALE

Road], beginning Sunday, August 20. He hopes to continue the meetings on weekdays as well as on Sundays.

•A party named Heisley has been engaged to teach in the Woodcliff public school.

•Extra copies of the Local can be obtained by application at the office for three cents each.

•A wild-eyed man rushed into our office this week and asked

Up next at the Hillsdale

• Aug. 26 at 7 p.m.: Presidential Book Talk with Louis Picone.

• Sept. 5 at 1 p.m.: Fitness Fun with Lois – New Day! At 2 p.m.: Senior Freeze Property Tax Reimbursement Information Session.

to be given a bill of separation from his wife, whom he charged with nearly all the sins of the Decalogue. We tried to explain that while a newspaperʼs functions are numerous and varied, it had neither the power nor the jurisdiction over the case in question, but the party seemed unconvinced. It was only by considerable effort that we persuaded him to seek relief elsewhere.

Free Public Library…

• Sept. 11 at 1 p.m.: Hoarding to Healing – The Legal Perspective.

• Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Baby and Kids Clothing Swap.

• Sept. 6 (Doors open at 6 p.m.): Open Mic Night – Musical Performances.

• Sept. 16 at 7 p.m.: Mario Medici Presents: A History of Greenwich Village. Funding is provided by the Hillsdale Free Public Library Foundation through the generous gift of Gayle and Paul Gross. For more information, visit hfpl.org

Italian feast, senior fest get van service

The Westwood Recreation Departmentʼs ForeverYoung program is providing Community Van shuttle service to two exciting events for older residents this September:

• On Saturday, Sept. 7, Westwood seniors aged 65 and over are invited to ride the Community Van to The Sons of Italy Rockland Lodge Italian Feast in Tappan, N.Y. The event runs from noon to 4 p.m.; the cost is $5 per person.

• On Thursday, Sept. 12, Westwood seniors aged 60 and over

are invited to the Bergen County Annual Senior Festival in Van Saun County Park. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. there is no fee to attend.

To learn more about either trip or to register, call the Westwood Recreation Department at (201) 6647882 or email rciarlante@westwoodnj.gov. Seating for both trips is limited, and the registration deadline is Sept. 3.

The Westwood Recreation Department offers a variety of fitness

and enrichment opportunities for adults 55 and over, including yoga, chair yoga, tai chi, pickleball, cardio dance, mah-jong, art, and more. Registration for ForeverYoung programs runs all year. Call (201) 664-7882 or visit the office at 55 Jefferson Ave. on Tuesdays or Thursdays to register. For more information about the ForeverYoung programs, visit Westwood ForeverYoung Programs. For more information, write gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov

Camp options abound in River Vale

With Labor Day looming and school still out, Fitness with Friends and the Township of River Vale are stepping in with a four-day full or half-day camp. These camps offer organized, fun, convenient, and affordable sports and games the week of Sept. 3.

Two programs are available: one for elementary school kids (grades K–3 and 4–5) and one for middle school kids (grades 6–8). Flexible registration options help optimize schedules.

Grades K–5. A fun sports and games-focused camp to keep kids active and social!

• Week (four days) full or

half day at Mark Lane Field

• Half day: 9 a.m. to noon

•Full day: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

•Flex to custom select days: choose specific days for your child to attend

•Arts and crafts (included in cost)

•Soccer clinic day Wednesday

• Basketball clinic day Thursday

•Pizza party included on Friday

• The fee includes arts and crafts materials. After-care is available until 5 p.m. for an additional fee.

Middle school kids with coach Jamik.

• Grades 6–8, focuses on sports, including speed and agility, basketball, dodgeball, and conditioning—a great way to prepare for the sports season!

•Week-long (four days) 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

• Single custom select days: choose 1–3 days if unable to attend all four days

• Pizza included on Friday

•Open to all levels and abilities

For more information, contact Rachel at Fitness with Friends at (917) 566-4640 or fitnesswithfriends2@gmail.com

PARK RIDGE

Post 153, borough Sept. 11 observance

American Legion Post 153 and Park Ridge are again planning to remember not just the seven Park Ridge residents who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001, but also all those who perished in the attacks and the many lives that have been impacted since.

Mark your calendar to attend the event at 6:30 p.m. in Veterans Park on Wednesday, Sept. 11. In

case of rain, the ceremony will be relocated to the pavilion behind Borough Hall.

All local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts are asked to attend in uniform, and the public is encouraged to participate. The event will include a candle lighting, the presentation of memorial wreaths, and the lowering of the American flag to half-staff.

CLUB NEWS

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

Collectible Car Fair For Kids &Teens Sept. 8

The Hillsdale Free Public Library, in collaboration with DrivinʼNews (drivin-news.com), is excited to announce the first Collectible Car Fair for Kids and Teens.

This unique, interactive event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2

sit in each vehicle on display and experience the living history of the greatest gift of the industrial age, the automobile.

Hall said, “Through this handson experience, students will better understand the character, beauty,

p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 8 at the library. Boys and girls aged 18 and younger will have the rare opportunity to experience some of the most significant automobiles of the 20th century up close and personal.

“Todayʼs prevailing digital culture too often deprives children of real-life, hands-on learning opportunities. The Collectible Car Fair will be as hands-on as you can get,” said Burton Hall, publisher of Drivinʼ News

Children will be encouraged to

and excitement of the iconic vehicles that revolutionized individual lives and forever changed global culture in the 20th century.”

Dave Franz, “director of fun” at HFPL, added, “The Hillsdale Library strives to provide a place for people to share their enthusiasm and passion. Equally important, it equips individuals to expand their awareness of the world around them. This event offers children and their parents the opportunity to interact with people passionate

about the history, excitement, and significance of classic automobiles.”

The event will be staffed by enthusiasts from Hallʼs “Collectible Automobiles as a Passion” class at Ridgewood Community School. These knowledgeable car enthusiasts own the classic automobiles on display, which include a 1915 Model T, 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom I, 1970 Plymouth Superbird, 1961 Corvette, 1962 Lotus 7, 1974 DeTomaso Pantera, 1986 911 Porsche, and many more.

Children will also have the chance to learn how cars are judged at shows. Those who register in advance with the Hillsdale Library can attend a class on the morning of the event, taught by Bob Austin, an experienced concours judge, automotive journalist, and past director

of the Rolls-Royce Club of America. All registrants who complete the class will get the opportunity to

receive a certificate of recognition for their participation.

A “Fun Hunt for Car Facts” will challenge children to find

judge the vehicles on display and

answers to a list of questions about the classic cars on display. The first 75 children to find all the correct answers will win a poster of themselves posing with their favorite car.

For those considering careers in classic car restoration, McPherson College graduate and student mentor Nicholas Navarro will speak after the event about related career opportunities.

“There are countless car events each year, but never one like this. Donʼt let your child miss it,” Hall and Franz agreed.

Hillsdale Free Public Library, is at 509 Hillsdale Ave. For more information, call Burton Hall at (201) 307-1344 or visit the Hillsdale Free Public Library

1974 De Tomaso Pantera

1961 Chevrolet Corvette

1968 Ford Mustang Coupe

DMC DeLorean, without flight circuits

1928 Rolls-Royce

Emerson Home Improvement Program

Mayor DiPaola and the governing body tell Pascack Press they are excited to announce that Emersonʼs Home Improvement Program is available to help eligible residents make necessary home repairs.

If you live in Emerson, own your home, and your total gross annual household income falls below the income limit for your household

size, you may qualify to participate in this program and receive up to $17,000 in repairs, which include roofs, foundations, heating, electrical,

windows, insulation, plumbing, and more. For more information on the program, eligibility requirements, or to submit a preliminary application, visit hip.cgph.net or call (609) 6642769 ext. 9. Funding may also be available for rental properties. Landlords can call (609) 664-2769 ext. 9 for terms.

MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

Crafts,antiques!

Save the date for the annual Craft Show & Antique Corner, Sunday, Aug. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Veterans Park, Broadway & 3rd Ave., featuring 125 exhibitors. Enjoy a day of shopping and festival foods. The event is hosted by the Westwood Heritage Society and promoted by P.J.ʼs Promotions.

Visitors can shop at booths featuring talented artists and crafters showcasing stained glass, woodwork, jewelry, florals, pottery, ceramics, apparel, art, watercolors, and photography. Youʼll also find folk art, birdhouses, garden and childrenʼs items, resin art, bonsai, soaps,

candles, framed dried florals, fiber, tie-dye, chain-saw animals, quilts, and much more.

Donʼt miss the Antique & Collectible Corner, where treasures await. Discover antique and costume jewelry, vintage toys, pottery, silver, prints, vintage paper, linens, primitives, Americana, lamps, glassware, and more. Appraisals will be conducted by Jon Felz, Pascack Pressʼs “Ask the Appraiser,” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at $5 per item. Indulge in a variety of festival foods, including homemade pretzels, pickles, Italian ice, and desserts. The fair will be held rain or shine with free admission. For more information, visit pjspromotions.com

In brief…

100 years of political memorabilia

Park Ridgeʼs first election, in 1894, was explosive! The winning candidate, who led by a single vote, celebrated by firing a cannon in Depot Square. How about this fact: Washington Townshipʼs formation in 1840, when the opposing side

stole the ballot box and threw the election officials out the windows of a local tavern.

See Pascack Historical Societyʼs archive of political memorabilia that dates back to the 19th century, as well as some remarkable stories of elections from our regionʼs past. Take in this exhibit during regular visiting hours at John C Storms Museum, 19 Ridge Ave., any Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. As always, museum admission is free. For much more information visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org

Take home at least a nice piece of fruit

At Westwood Public Library: “Lifelong Learning Lectures: Professor Jacob Labendz” Thursday, Sept. 12, 7 p.m. Ramapo College, WPL present a series of lectures to enrich the intellectual and cultural life of the community. Labendz will discuss “Jews are what Jews eat: Community construction, social belonging, and Jewish foods.” Register

Bring home Chilli, your new pal

Meet Chilli, a sweet terrier mix with a heartwarming story. Rescued from the South as a 7-month-old puppy on Nov. 19, 2023 she was quickly adopted into a loving home.

Sadly, after over three years, she has returned to Save The Animals Rescue Team II (START II), a non-profit, no-kill, all-volunteer animal rescue group in Englewood, as her owner passed away.

Chilli is a happy-go-lucky dog who will instantly steal your heart. Sheʼs full of energy and loves to play, making a fenced yard ideal for her. Once sheʼs had her fun, she becomes the perfect lap dog, soaking up all the attention you can give.

Chilli bonds quickly with people and is fabulous with children of all ages.

However, Chilli needs to be the only pet in the household—no cats or other dogs, please. Her expressive eyes and those adorable ears will melt your soul. Chilli is up to date on all vaccinations and is spayed, ready to find her forever

making a fenced yard ideal for her.

home. Chilli and her friends are looking for loving families at Save The Animals Rescue Team II. To meet Chilli, please fill out an online application and schedule a visit. If you or someone you know is interested in adopting Chilli or any other rescue, contact Marge at (732) 330-6692 or start2@yahoo.com

Help spread the word about the importance of spaying and neutering. Itʼs a matter of life and death, and there are many programs available for those in need.

If youʼre passionate about animals and have spare time, consider joining this amazing team. Fill out a volunteer application at startii.org

Need a FTdog bather. Experienced preferred or will train. Call 201-4440656.

AGREAT sales rep for your business? Call (201) 815-2636. “Guaranteed Results.” SalesTeamStaffing.com.

PART-TIME SENIOR VAN DRIVER – BOROUGH OF WESTWOOD - Must possess a valid New Jersey Driver’s License and have the ability to operate wheelchair lift equipment after completing the required training video: Wheelchair Lift and Securement. Must be able to work harmoniously, cooperatively, and courteously with Senior and Disabled passengers at all times and be able to maintain a calm manner in stressful and emergency situations. Hours required are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., one to two days a week with occasional hours for special events. Geography and community knowledge of the local area, including Hillsdale, Emerson, Westwood, River Vale, Township of Washington, etc. required as well as ability to follow GPS, maps and written directions. Candidate must possess effective time management, planning and organizational skills. The Borough reserves the right to review resumes and conduct interviews as they are received. Interested candidates should send cover letter and resume via email to Gary Buchheister atgbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov Resumes to be mailed should be sent to Gary Buchheister, Recreation Director, 55 Jefferson Avenue, Westwood NJ 07675. Westwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Product & Service Development Engineer for BMW of North America, LLC in Woodcliff Lake, NJ to perform work that is essential to the successful and efficient operation of the technology between the US and Germany for BMW of North America. Requires: Bachelor's degree in Electronic Engg, Mechanical Engg, Business Info Sys., or related scientific field (willing to accept forgn edu equiv.) + 5 yrs’ exp in Sr Product & Service Development Engineer or related occupation (engineering-related project management or personnel supervision experience). Or, alternatively: a Master’s + 3 yrs’exp. Email resume to karen.cochran@ bmwsharedservices.com. Reference Position Number: 2400007H.

P/T BookkeeperNorwood, weekdays on premises.15-20 hr/wk flexible. Exp. in Quickbook/Excel.Call Sandy (201) 726-2426.

Team of Polish women will clean your home, office, or apartment. Over 25 years experience. Call Teresa at 201-679-5081.

(201) 664-4663.

The Westwood Habitat ReStore is looking for fun-loving people

OFFICER– BOROUGH OF WESTWOOD. 25 hours per week, Monday through Friday Duties include rental and resale inspections of residential and commercial properties, investigate complaints, open and close all investigations including appearing in court on behalf of the Borough, answer complaints regarding property maintenance, zoning ordinance complaints/inspections, create and maintain all reports. Familiarity with SDL. Must have strong communication, organization and computer skills. Salary per the Borough ordinance. Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Durene Ayer Borough of Westwood Administrator, via email to dayer@westwoodnj.gov on or before June 14, 2024 by 4pm. Resumes to be mailed should be sent to Durene Ayer, Borough Administrator, 101 Washington Avenue, Westwood NJ 07675. Equal Opportunity Employer

Caregiver needed for facility in Bergen County, excellent references required. Call Anthony at (973) 652-1293

Uncle Frank’s Barber Shop in Park Ridge is looking for someone experienced with shaves, comb and clipper, all haircuts, all ages. Offering an opportunity for no. 2 position and possibly owning my shop in the near future. Wk. 201-782-9060 / Cell 201-675-7636

Senior female, 60s, quiet, clean non-smoker, nondrinker, seeks room, preferably in house with same. Contact: hellobergen@gmail.com or 551207-6895.

2020 Steel Gray Cadillac CT5Premium Luxury Edition 9,300 miles. Excellent Condition. $31,000. Call 201-358-8936.

WESTWOOD

Chilli, a happy-go-lucky dog, will instantly steal your heart. She’s full of energy and loves to play,

Hillsdale 50+ Club meets Sept. 12

The Hillsdale 50+ Club holds its first meeting of the 2024–2025 year on Thursday, Sept. 12, at 11:30 a.m. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Methodist Church on Magnolia Avenue, between Hillsdale and Washington avenues. “Weʼre looking forward to seeing familiar faces, enjoying a slide show, sharing a snack, and planning for the coming year. We hope to see everyone there!”

Letters:

FROM PAGE 10

Huge thanks on inclusive art workshop

To the editor:

ONBEHALFOF the Hillsdale Access for All Committee, I am thrilled to share the success of our first inclusive art workshop, recently held in collaboration with the Hillsdale Free Public Library. This event, generously funded by the Library Foundation, represents a significant milestone in our efforts to foster a more inclusive community.

The workshop, led by the talented Ana Robinson from J. Robinson Art, was designed to be accessible to partici pants of all abilities. Ana provided both group instruction and individualized attention, ensuring that everyone could fully engage in the creative process.

at the Hillsdale Library, whose dedication and support were instrumental in making this event a success.

D ave forwarded to us a touching message from Heather P., a parent of one of the participants, who expressed her heartfelt thanks for the event. She described how her son, who had never participated in a library event before, created a beautiful painting of a monarch butterfly and was particularly delighted to reconnect with an old friend from a previous program, making the day even more special for him.

Our committee member Jen Romanoff played a crucial role in assisting Ana, helping to create a supportive and welcoming environment for all attendees.

Jen shared with us that the interaction between disabled and non-disabled participants was truly inspiring. Artists of all backgrounds worked side by side, sharing techniques, ideas, and stories, which fostered a strong sense of community

We are also deeply grateful to director Dave Franz and the staff

T hese positive outcomes were shared with Mayor Sheinfield, Councilman Ruocco, and Borough Administrator Ghassali, as we expressed our gratitude for their ongoing support. We are excited to build on the success of this workshop by organizing more inclusive events and activities, and we look forard to collaborating with other local organizations to ensure these opportunities are accessible and engaging for all community members.

As we plan our next events, we welcome suggestions and are actively seeking volunteers to assist participants who may need additional support. Together, we can continue to create spaces where everyone in our community feels welcome and included.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this eventʼs success. Your support is vital to advancing our mission of making Hillsdale a more inclusive place for all.

Ron Miller Chair, Hillsdale Access for All

Meals on Wheels NJ Gala Sept. 14

Meals on Wheels North Jersey is thrilled to announce a special Gala event, Passing the Torch, Igniting the Future, to be held on Sept. 14 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Acadia Catering & Events, 99 Palisade Ave., Emerson. The cost to attend is $150 per person.

This gala honors the remarkable contributions of Jeanne Martin, executive director of Meals on Wheels North Jersey for more than 20 years.

MOWNJ tells Pascack Press, “Jeanneʼs dedication and leadership have been instrumental in the organization's success and growth. As she retires, we celebrate her legacy and the countless lives she has touched.”

The event will also serve as an introduction to new executive

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

director Janelle Larghi. “Janelle brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to serving the community. The Meals on Wheels North Jersey board, staff, and volunteers are all excited to welcome Janelle and look forward to the fresh perspectives and energy she is already bringing to Meals on Wheels North Jersey.”

The gala is a sponsored by Meals on Wheels North Jersey.

Attendees can look forward to an evening of celebration, networking, and inspiration.

To register for the event, visit http://passing-the-torch-tickets.cheddarup.com or mail in a check made payable to Meals on Wheels North Jersey, 32 Pascack Road, 2nd Floor, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677.

For sponsorship opportunities, visit http://mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org or call (201) 358-0050.

Woman’s club to shake the can at Fresh Grocer

The Womanʼs Club of Westwood, affiliated with GFWC/NJSFWC, will hold a fundraiser for their scholarship fund on Saturday, Aug. 31 and Sunday, Sept. 1 at The Fresh Grocer supermarket in Washington Township from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The scholarship is awarded to a female graduating senior

residing in Westwood or Washington Township, regardless of the high school they attend. Applications for the scholar-

ship will be available in high school guidance offices in the spring.

For over a century, members of the Woman's Club of Westwood have actively supported local charities. For more information about the club and its activities, contact the membership chairman at (201) 916-1580.

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

MARTIN LARGHI