Township of Washington looks set for $610K; Park Ridge has good news on $412K toward train station renovation
BY MICHAELOLOHANWashington Township and Park Ridge are in line for more than $1 million in Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund grants, according to 2023 preliminary grant recommendations made Sept. 6 by the county Open Space Trust Fund Advisory Committee
See MILLIONS on page 18
EMERSON
Agreements gave borough a year, until Dec. 31, 2019 to obtain a building site and design for a new ambulance HQ — countersuits filed
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESSTHE RIVER VALE Police Department swore in its 10th chief of police, Christopher Bulger, posting “We are eager to work alongside Chief Bulger throughout the remainder of his career at RVPD. Congratulations, as we know you will succeed in your new position.”
The town also swore in new police officers Tyler Iozia and Dylan Gonzalez.
“Congratulations to our two newest officers. We look forward to adding you to RVPD and wish you much success in your future,” the depart-
ment said on Sept. 12.
Under Bulgerʼs and now retired Chief Sean Scheideleʼs leadership, River Vale was repeatedly named the stateʼs safest city by the National Council for Home Safety and Security
Bulger was born and raised in town and joined the department in 1998. He made sergeant in 2009 and captain in 2021, and is well decorated — including with a PBA Local 206 Exceptional Duty Medal. Reaction on the departmentʼs Facebook was glowing:
• Tom Gesner: “Congrats,
Chris, all the best to you and family.”
• Kelly Tiscornia: “Congratulations, Chris! Iʼm sure your dad was smiling down on you.”
John SnyderAn Oct. 16 trial date is set to hear a lawsuit filed in June 2020 by the Borough of Emerson against its redevelopment partner and the redeveloperʼs countersuits — over the non-payment of $500,000 in construction services in exchage for a deed to the former home of the Emerson Volunteer Ambulance Corps (EVAC).
When initial agreements between the borough and Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal (ERUR) to redevelop the Block 419 or Emerson Station Project were signed in late December 2018, those agreements gave the borough one year, until Dec. 31, 2019, to obtain a building site and site design for a new EVAC headquarters in exchange for deeding over the ambulance property.
When the redeveloper did not pay out the $500,000 in construction services, claiming the borSee TRIAL on page 34
The attire might be updated, but scouting is just as popular today as when this photo of Hillsdale’ roop 52 was taken in Hillsdale in September 1927. Kristin Beuscher reports.
To the editor:
EMERSONDESPERATELY
l awyers. Taxpayers are overburdened and increasingly left in the dark.
T he Emerson Democratic Committee is proud to offer vote rs an alternative. Our candid ates for council this year, Jose Organ and Julia Guttilla, come w ith a willingness to shine a light and fight for the transparency residents deserve. They are not beholden to the current administration that punishes anyone who dares speak out of line. We canʼt afford the status quo. Make a plan to vote for Organ and Guttilla by Nov. 7 to restore much needed balance to the Emerson council.
To the editor:
NOTE: Letter submission deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday for the following Monday’s paper. Publication not guaranteed. Subject to editing. Email topascackpress@thepressgroup.net.
mayorʼs involvement in committee discussions, even when there are strong disagreements. The councilʼs willingness to “go nuclear” because they objected to my views was both disturbing and revealing.
Wilfredo Ortiz, chair Kate Stutzel, vice chair Emerson Democratic Committee
in 2014 to the Hillsdale Council, served as council president 2016–2017, and became mayor in the latter half of 2017 upon the resignation of Mayor Doug Frank. After defeating Democrat Michael Sheinfield later that year in the general election, I ran unopposed in 2019. Earlier this year, I decided not to seek a third term as mayor, but instead to run for a council seat. My decision was influenced by changes made by the Hillsdale “Council Five” — excluding Zoltán Horváth —to curtail the mayorʼs access to information and his ability to participate in committee discussions. All other boroughs in New Jersey respect the mayorʼs role and ensure the
The Hillsdale Council minority clearly have different views than I about how government should function and on the level of transparency that is desirable when spending hard-earned taxpayer dollars. Exchanging my role as mayor for a council seat would give me a vote on all matters (which I legally lack as mayor) while still allowing me to observe and, when necessary, speak out on developments that are not in the best interest of our community
the residents, all the while respecting the fiduciary role we had as stewards of the taxpayersʼmoney. Drawing upon my 38 years of managerial and financial experience as an officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and my 42 years as a resident, I advocated relentlessly for:
• Keeping a lid on taxes by controlling spending and seeking new forms of revenue without vastly changing the townʼs smalltown charm. This included being open to opportunities to work with other towns in sharing or consolidating services if it advanced the overall interests of the residents.
•Advocating for as much transparency in decision-making
needs new leadership. The current council (all handpicked by the mayor for their political loyalty) raised municipal taxes an astounding 15% this year, with no compelling explanation on why or what happens next. The reasons behind borough spending are opaque — whether itʼs property purchased for unclear usage, “personnel investigations” of borough volunteers, or litigation that only seems to be enriching our CONTINUED ON PAGE 13
During my 6 1⁄ 2 years as mayor, I tried to move the governing body in a direction that exuded professionalism, strong ethical behavior, and transparency with
•The headline on a Sept. 11, page 11 story, River Vale schools “Referendum seeks $320,000 for school security boost,” should have read $230,000. The report was correct.
•In the same issue, page 6, “Three vie to wield gavel in Hillsdale; two council seats open,” council candidate Steven Segalas was a Republican councilman, 2017–2019, who seeks election as a Democrat; and
• Mayoral candidate council president Anthony DeRosa is liaison not to the Tri-Boro Ambulance Corps but rather to the Hillsdale Volunteer Ambulance Service.
We regret the errors.
EMERSON
Acting Police Chief Mark Savino asked the Borough Council on Sept. 5 to consider budgeting approximately $10,000 annually for two automatic license plate reader camera systems for the borough if the departmentʼs pending grant requests are not successful.
Savino noted that chief Michael Mazzeo — retiring effective Oct. 1 — had spoken about the need for such cameras in Emerson, and that more towns in Pascack Valley and the county are acquiring and putting the cameras to good use.
Savino said the police department has submitted grants for the
WESTWOOD
license plate reader cameras to the state Attorney Generalʼs office and Bergen County Prosecutorʼs office. He said the cameras have been a very effective crime-fighting tool statewide.
He told the council that nearby municipalities such as Paramus, Mahwah, and Paterson use the cameras. He noted the State Police also have a statewide network of automatic license plate readers to help track stolen cars and cars associated with criminal activities.
Savino said he would like to place one camera downtown and one in the vicinity of Forest Avenue. He said having the two cameras would assist nearby towns in tracking vehicles involved in car thefts and carjackings.
He said such cameras could also help to reduce or capture individuals involved with catalytic converter thefts, which have been on the rise in suburban areas.
He said the automatic license plate reader cameras also help to notify state and county law enforcement about specific license plates when seen on the camera, alerting authorities of a vehicleʼs location. He said most nearby towns are seeking to acquire the cameras.
Savino told council that “a big shoplifting ring” targeting Bergen County malls and stores was stopped recently due to the cameras that identified suspected vehicles involved in the ring.
At the Sept. 5 meeting, Lt. Rocco Duardo was promoted to captain, effective Oct. 1. The pro-
The Brookside Bazaar seeks artists, crafters, retailers, vendors, creatives and entrepreneurs of all ages to sell their wares and participate in the second annual community craft fair, which aims to support local small businesses and encourage shopping small to kick off the holiday season.
After a successful first year welcoming more than 35 unique vendors and 400 shoppers from across Bergen County, this yearʼs Brookside Bazaar is set for Saturday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center
The celebrated and anticipated community event will showcase a selection of curated local vendors, activities for little shoppers, and delicious treats from Le Carré Café & Pâtisserie, the title sponsor of this yearʼs event following their sneak peek at last yearʼs Bazaar and a trés magnifique grand open-
ing this summer in Hillsdale, with daily sell-outs of their croissants.
Those looking to participate are encouraged to visit tinyurl.com/BBupdates2023, with registration closing on Oct. 6.
Event proceeds such as vendor sign-ups and day-of raffle sales go to Westwoodʼs Brookside Elementary Schoolʼs Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) to fund student activities, enrichments and equipment.
motion was approved, 6-0.
A resolution promoting Savino to chief, effective Oct. 1, was approved, 6-0, at the Aug. 15 council meeting.
Both promotions were announced near the meetingʼs end after the council went into closed sessions and then came back to vote in public.
The 2024 grant cycle is for history projects or programs taking p lace Jan. 1–Dec. 31, 2024. Adobe Stock image.
PASCACKVALLEY
The Bergen County Department of Parks, Division of Cultural & Historic Affairs announces the 2024 Bergen County History Grant Funding Program. The 2024 grant cycle is for history projects or programs taking place Jan. 1–Dec. 31, 2024.
All Bergen County non-profit history organizations and other nonprofits that present Bergen County based history programs are invited to apply Municipalities and libraries interested in presenting history
See COUNTY on page 6
THEATTIRE might be updated, but scouting is just as popular today as when this photo of Hillsdaleʼs Troop 52 was taken in Hillsdale in September 1927.
The Boy Scouts of America formed in 1910, and scouting came to Hillsdale six years later Scouts were very active during the 1920s, with weekly meetings and community events held throughout the year
The scout leaders kept the boys busy with hiking and camping, patriotic rallies, programs on citizenship and life lessons, drills on first aid and signaling, and helping out at local events. The boys made and sold birdhouses to raise money for equipment. They collected and repaired toys for orphans.
At Memorial Day the scouts gathered flowers and decorated the graves of veterans.
In May 1927 the boys packed onto a bus to go see the visiting United States Fleet, anchored in the Hudson River The boys loved seeing the armada of 129 ships, the
largest naval force ever assembled at New York, and they talked about it for weeks. Another memorable trip that year took the boys farther afield, to Washington, D.C., where they spent several days sightseeing.
A special project for the boys: the Hillsdale directory they published every year. Funded by donations from merchants, the book listed phone numbers and addresses for all residents and businesses in Hillsdale. The troop hand delivered a copy of the directory to each home in the borough.
The end of September 1927 brought an overnight hike that was a highlight of the scouting year. After a Saturday afternoon spent walking through the woods, the famished boys set up camp and cooked a muchanticipated supper—meat, onions, and potatoes—over a large fire. They took turns telling stories until it was time to go to sleep. The fire burned all night, with the scouts taking turns on guard duty.
The next morning, at 5, the boys emerged from their tents for bacon and eggs. They packed up camp, hiked back, and returned home Sunday night tired but happy.
Nearly 17 months after its purchase, the mayor told local officials in August that an engineering survey of the 6.2-acre f ormer Washington Township Swim & Recreation Club would be conducted to help the engineer determine the siteʼs best recreational uses.
Mayor Peter Calamari told officials of the survey during his regular update at the Aug. 14 meeting. Calamari said some original recreational options for the site were not feasible and Boswell recommended an engineering study of the entire site.
Based on its $19,000 proposal, the townshipʼs engineer, Boswell Engineering, should complete a detailed survey by early October that allows a local recreation advisory committee and officials to better determine what recreational options and facilities might work out best on the Ridgewood Boulevard North site, the mayor said.
The administration authorized the engineering survey to provide a detailed rundown of elevations, utility markouts, and property boundaries on the site, which was originally acquired for $800,000 in April 2022.
Early this year, the council accepted a $438,750 county Open Space grant that restricts the property to certain active and passive recreational and conservation uses.
In August, Calamari also told the council that after Boswell completes the survey, Boswell will submit another plan with site recommendations for the recreational board to review.
He said some original recreational proposals for the property “just wonʼt work,” and following the survey, Boswell will present site proposals likely to fit on the
current property, said the mayor. Then, the recommendations for property use will be presented to the council, he said. Calamari said that all of Boswellʼs recommendations w ould be known to the council as well as what the recreational board was recommending.
“Boswell believes a full survey should take place at this time as every square foot of usable space matters,” Calamari said at the Aug. 14 meeting.
Calamari agreed that the council has final authority to fund and approve the recreation-
al uses on the former swim club site.
Before accepting the nearly $ 439,000 county Open Space grant early this year, the council considered not accepting it, given the potential open space and conservation use restrictions placed on the propertyʼs future uses by acceptance. (See “Council weighs taking $439K open space grant,” Michael Olohan, Dec, 12, 2022.)
In his March update, Calamari said the recreational adviso-
ry committee, township administrator, and himself had met with Boswell Engineering representatives onsite at the swim club to discuss future property uses. He said then “many ideas were expressed” and that Boswell was researching what is p ossible. He provided no specifics during the update.
(See “Mayor updates on big town projects,” Michael Olohan, March 13, 2023).
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
FROM PAGE 4
focused programs are also invited to apply.
An applicant organization must have its official base and mailing address in Bergen County. Applicants should be tax exempt, 501(c)3 organizations with current state reports.
The History Grant Program is administered by the Division of Cultural & Historic Affairs, Bergen County Department of Parks, and is funded by an Operating Support Grant from the New
Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State.
In 2023, 15 county organizations shared in $90,000 in grant funding administered by the DCHA.
The Declaration of Intent, application packet, and general information may be found via the Department of Parks, Division of Cultural & Historic Affairs website: co.bergen.nj.us/grant-programs/history-grant-program
For answers to specific questions regarding eligibility, guidelines, and the application process, contact the DCHA History Grant Coordinator Elaine Kiernan Gold at egold@co.bergen.nj.us or (201) 336-7294.
The Montvale Seniors invite all to join them on their overnight trip Oct. 9–12: Castles of New York &.New York State Capital, four days. three nights. Cost is $719 each for a double room.
Journey to a bygone era! Cruise aboard a replica steamboat on the scenic St. Lawrence River. Tour Boldt Castle, a monument of love built by George Boldt for his wife, Louise.
Wingʼs Castle, a unique architectural marvel on the Hudson, and stately Singer Castle on the St. Lawrence, completes your journey. Included: three nights lodging (two nights at Edgewood Resort), three breakfasts, one boxed lunch, three dinners, Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, Wingʼs Castle, Millbrook Vineyards and Winery tour, St. Lawrence River Cruise, and New York State Capital Building. The trip will depart from the Montvale Senior Center off Grand Avenue, adjacent to the firehouse. Call Rosemarie Kelly at (201) 391-8718 or write montvalerose@yahoo.com.
The application form will automatically be emailed to organizations participating in current and last yearʼs funding cycles. Emailed forms may be requested. All forms, including the Declaration of Intent form, are supplied by the DCHA.
2024 grant cycle timeline
•Declaration of Intent due
Monday, Oct. 2, 2023.
•Completed grant applications due Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023.
The DCHA actively seeks the participation of all communities in its programs and services and encourages organizations serving ethnic and culturally diverse communities, and special constituencies.
The Bergen County Division of Cultural & Historic Affairs is dedicated to supporting the arts, history, and historic preservation. The DCHA plays a leading role in building a flourishing cultural environment that benefits and distinguishes Bergen County as a New Jersey cultural destination, offering programs, services, and resources in all three areas.
which will be provided to Emerson Bible Church’s Food Pantry. Please consider donating.
Parents and taxpayers are i nvited to attend a forum on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. at George G. White Middle School where district officials hope to explain detailed renovation options for the 100-year-old middle school following defeat of an
$82.7 million bond referendum in March.
The meeting, superintendent Robert Lombardy told families in a recent letter, will “provide the different options considered as a result of the meeting held last June. Due to both technical and space limitations of the cafeteria, we are working on hiring a videographer to record the meeting so anyone unable to attend can view
the meeting at a later time.”
In June nearly 100 residents filled the middle school multipurpose room and offered suggestions following the referendumʼs defeat. School officials took notes and said that they presented the suggestions to architect DiCara Rubino for discussion.
At the Aug. 28 board meeting, school officials said sugges-
t ions included moving fifthgraders from the middle school and back to the districtʼs two elementary schools, finding more space on the middle school grounds, and modifications of both options.
Following the referendumʼs defeat, school officials warned that no future renovation option was inexpensive. Officials have said they hope to offer another referendum question on George Whiteʼs renovation in September 2024.
Prior to the March 14 referendum to replace George White Middle School with a state of the art facility, and new artificial turf field, some residents dinged the board for not broadcasting its meetings, or recording them and posting them later online.
Borough Councilman Anthony DeRosa, liaison to the board, also urged the district to broadcast meetings, especially given the public interest in the school bond referendum.
So far, school officials have not indicated any interest in broadcasting or recording their regular meetings. Some critics have complained that elderly residents, as well as busy working parents, cannot attend the monthly meetings that start at 5:30 or 6 p.m. on Mondays.
The next regular meeting is Monday, Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. at Ann Blanche Smith School, 1000 Hillsdale Ave.
Lombardy wrote, “As the year opens, our Board of Education remains committed to addressing the decades-long challenge that surrounds the George G. White Middle School property. The need for updating and creating space to accommodate our current and future learners and programming, along with replacing an aging infrastructure inclusive of HVAC, electric, roofing, windows, doors and outdoor recreation space are all among the priorities.”
He said, “Each of these challenges are significant and there is no small fix.”
He added, “I am confident that together we will work toward a plan that makes the learning experience and learning setting for Hillsdale children among the best in Bergen county for many years to come.”
At the Aug. 28 meeting, Board President Nicole Klas said that the district wants residents involved in the feedback process about potential options. “There is no cheap option at this point. I think people just really have to understand that concept itʼs like a menu, weʼre working with different options.”
She said the options on the table involved “disrupting” three schools, and involved costs, trailers, sacrifices and logistics. “People just have to come with an open mind and just see that we thought over a lot of stuff,” she added. (See “BOE to present George White options; fall 2024 vote eyed,” Michael Olohan, Sept. 4, 2023, Pascack Press.)
Following the referendumʼs nearly 2-1 defeat in March, the district posted on its Road To Referendum portal a likely scenario for a next referendum.
“No matter what direction the board takes next, a bond referendum is likely in Hillsdaleʼs future. We have known for years that the large-scale renovation that George White needs cannot be paid for from the annual operating budget,” said the district.
The website notes the path to another referendum as including:
•Three to five months to hear community input and, based on that, direct architects and engineers to develop and submit preliminary plans for state approval.
•Six months for the state Department of Education to review/approve applications from Hillsdale.
•Three to five months to inform the community about the plan and cost details before a referendum.
The townshipʼs consulting architect presented three new options for upgrading the police department facilities Sept. 5.
Options range from approximately $1.5 million, to expand onsite space, to more than $7 million to shift council chambers to the proposed new DPW facility and allow police operations to take over space now used by the council chambers.
The architect said by shifting the council chambers from its town hall space to the new DPW facilityʼs second floor, and keeping some DPW offices at town hall, all required police department upgrades could be accomplished at the town hall.
However, that projectʼs total price tag was slightly over $7.6 million. The estimated new DPW facility cost, before adding council chambers, was nearly $5 million, said Anthony Iovino, of Arcari Iovino Architects, Little Ferry.
Iovino showed the three options to the council during a 20minute presentation Sept. 5.
Iovino said the revised DPW price, which included adding the council chambers, and repurposing council chambers for police operations, increased the DPW
project cost by approximately $2.6 million.
The council didnʼt ask Iovino any questions on this in open session, and took no action on the presentation. Township administrator Mark DiCarlo told us he anticipates discussion at the Sept. 18 meeting of the governing body.
Previously, some members including Tom Sears and vice president Steven Cascio, had questioned Iovino about why he offered designs that combined the police facilities with possible future new DPW facilities.
Sears previously questioned why bid specifications for the DPW facility were being held up pending a council decision on upgraded and expanded police
department facilities.
Mayor Peter Calamari urged the council to wait until Arcari
Iovino had presented additional options for police department upgrades before moving forward on the new DPW complex.
Architectʼs New P.D. Options Arcari Iovino presented two design options, Option 1 and Option 2, focused on improving and expanding on-site police department space at the town hall. Option 3 focused on the police department taking over council chambers space, and moving the chambers/courtroom space to the second floor of the new DPW facility.
Option 1, estimated at $1,417,747, offers ground floor expansion for prisoner handling and new office space. This also includes interior renovations on
the main floor to achieve state Department of Correctionsʼ required spaces, ADA restrooms and clearances. Also, interior renovations of the lower floor for displaced office space.
Option 2, estimated at $1,004,708, offers ground floor expansion for prisoner handling and relocated offices to the lower level. This includes interior renovations to the main floor to achieve state DOC-required spaces, ADA restrooms and clearances. Also, renovations of lower floor former cells and processing area for displaced office spaces.
Option 3, estimated to add $2.6 million to new DPW facili-
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
Senior appraiser Jon Felz of R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. answers yourquestions on fine art,American coins,and great antiques.Send your questions and photos to rzmantique@aol.com
Damascene shade with an iridescent pulled and trail design should feature gold shading when illuminated. The designer, Louis Comfort Tiffany
(1848-1933), used magenta and iridescent blue waves to transform the colors when lit. That was why your late wife commented on the “pretty”
BYJONFELZHello, Jon, In 1966 we purchased an old Victorian home in Ridgewood, where we lived for more than 30 years. This lamp was left in the master bedroom along with several other things, and we used it occasionally. My late wife used to remark about how pretty the lampʼs colors were when it was lit. After we moved to Montvale it was packed away. Now Iʼve dug it out, and itʼs perfect, just as my wife cared for it years ago. Iʼm getting ready to sell my house, and Iʼm thinking of perhaps leaving it here or donating it.
Open to suggestions, Tom
Hi, Tom,
PROFESSIONALS
Donʼt abandon this valuable lamp. After studying your photographs Iʼm pleased to inform you that your lamp is an authentic Tiffany Studios Counterbalance desk lamp with the original hand-blown Damascene iridescent glass shade, produced in 1910. Itʼs a study in elegance and equilibrium featuring a graceful patinated bronze arm supporting a bronze ball weight and the shade at opposite ends, all mounted on a shaped circular base.
If you look at the base, on the bottom, it will be impressed TIFFANY STUDIOS/NEW YORK/416. The original green
Jon Felz says, “Your lamp is anauthentic Tiffany Studios Counterbalance desk lamp with original hand-blown Damascene iridescent glass shade,produced in 1910.It’s a study in elegance and equilibrium…”
colors. The replacement value for this magnificent lamp is $8,000. Your lamp originally was offered with several color choices for the shades, including blue and gold —all equally as beautiful when illuminated. Although this lamp would make a really great housewarming gift the homeʼs new owners would long remember, you might opt instead to hang on to it. Thanks for writing,
Jon Felz
What are y our treasures worth? Find out at antiques and vintage appraisal weekend, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 24 at Pascack Historical Society, 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge. Jon Felz of R.Z.M. Fine Arts and Antiques will speak about and appraise antique and vintage items of all kinds in this fundraiser for the PHS. Your $10 admission includes one appraisal. Itʼs just $5 per additional appraisal. (Up to three total per person.)
For more information call (201) 573-0307 or visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org.
The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood, in partnership with the Westwood Public Library, hosted 16 residents in a remembrance of Sept. 11, 2001 featuring Ann Van Hine, author of “Pieces Falling: Navigating 9/11 with Faith, Family & the FDNY,” on Thursday, Sept. 7 at the Westwood Public Library.
Attendees share their personal stories from 9/11 through discussion with Van Hine who shared her story of personal loss amid national tragedy.
Van Hine lost her husband, a New York City firefighter, on Sept. 11, 2001. Her book “draws parallels between her own journey and the evolution of Ground Zero from a place of death and destruction to the moving Memorial Plaza today —and is a beautiful testament to the resilience of a woman, a family, and a nation and her poignant reflections help answer the question of how to commemorate the past while creating space for your future.”
Copies of the book were sold with proceeds benefiting the Friends of the Westwood Library.
Afterward, the library memorialized the event by dedicating a copy of “This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience, and Regrowth” by Sean Rubin. A
Library event: Co-chair of the Contemporaries of the Womans Club
Jennifer Sirchio,author Ann Van Hine, and Westwood Public Library Director Martha Urbiel.The Contemporaries of the Woman’s Club of Westwood, in partnership with the Westwood Public Library,hosted Van Hine on Thursday,Sept.7. Courtesy photos
book plate within the cover reads “The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood thank Ann Van Hine for sharing her 9/11 story.”
Both “This Very Tree” and “Pieces Falling” will be on display at the library through midSeptember and are available for circulation.
The mission of The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood is to bring together a diverse group of women in an inclusive environment who, through fellowship, volunteerism,
and leadership,engage in hyperlocal philanthropy to serve the greater Westwood community.
To learn more, email westwoodcontemporaries@gmail.com Additional upcoming events and opportunities can be found at instagram.com/westwoodcontemporaries
The Friends of the Westwood Library is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization supporting the library through advocacy, fundraising and volunteering. Visit westwoodpubliclibrary.org/volunteers--friends
The experts will appraise all types of Antiques, Collectibles and Vintage Items including but not limited to the following:
•FineArt:paintings, watercolors,etchings, lithographs,sculpture, etc.
•Goldandsilvercoins
•Photography&cameras
•Toysanddolls
•Watchandclocks
•Musicalinstruments
•Scientificinstruments
•Books:1sted., signed,etc.
•Historicaldocuments
•Finejewelry:gold,
platinum,silver, diamonds,etc.
•Silver,flatware,bowls, trays,teasets,etc.
•WWIIMilitaryitems, antiqueguns,swords, uniforms,etc.
•Textiles:orientalrugs, tapestries,quilts,etc.
•Furniture:antique,art deco,mid-century modern,etc.
•Asianantiques
one appraisal • $5 per additional appraisal, up to three total A LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE WILL BE AVAILABLE TO MAKE HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT. For more information email rzmantique@aol.com or call 845-735-1313
“At Giulioʼs, we only use the freshest ingredients in our homemade dishes. Featuring contemporary Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, we strive to please every palate.”
Owner Beni Qosja opened Giulioʼs Restaurant in 2022. Housed in a beautiful, romantic, Queen Anne Victorian in Historic Tappan, N.Y., just minutes from Bergen County, Giulioʼs Restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine.
Built in 1880 by the Smith family, the rooms are adorned with carved woodwork and large beveled glass windows that make you feel like you stepped
into another era. The warm and inviting fireplaces in the Main Dining Room and Oak Room beckon guests to enjoy a fine glass of wine and a delicious
meal.
Beni brings more than 25 years of culinary experience to Giulioʼs Restaurant. Formerly of Vicolo of Old Tappan, Il Vicolo of Livingston and current owner
of Limoncello in Waldwick, the years of world class experience and passion for culinary creations is evident in each and every of his signature dishes.
Giulioʼs Restaurant creates contemporary dishes with only the finest and freshest ingredients. Visit for a drink in the full-
service bar, a casual meal by the fireplace, or to celebrate your life's most memorable events in one of the private dining rooms.
Formerly Giulioʼs of Tappan, the new Giulioʼs Restaurant offers guests a fresh experience with an updated dé cor and menu in a warm, romantic setting
When you go… Giulioʼs Restaurant 154 Washington Street Tappan, N.Y. 845-359-3657
See website for hours: www.giuliosrestaurant.com giuliosrestaurant@gmail.com
FROM PAGE 2 by municipal government as the law allows — including being honest in telling residents what things will truly cost in economic terms over time and what their elected officials are voting on during public meetings. I supported greater reliance on gathering input from the residents through specially appointed committees and supporting referendums on multimillion-dollar capital projects.
• Adhering to sound professional planning and governance norms, the same as in the private sector, so that projects would be well-vetted both internally and by the public before adoption.
• Respecting the rights of all members of the governing body to voice their concerns and engage in robust debate, viewing this as beneficial to the democratic process and not a cause to silence or punish dissenters.
These are the goals and principles that I will continue to follow if chosen by residents to serve on council. I respectfully seek their support in making Hillsdale a town that is attractive, affordable, and of which we can all be proud.
John J. Ruocco Hillsdale
To the editor: S ATURDAY, SEPT. 9 was an amazing day in Westwood. I spent the afternoon at Veterans Park, selling Westwood Candy Company sweets and treats during WestwoodFest. It was heartwarming to look across the park and see so many happy people.
I live in and own a business in Westwood. I opened my doors in October 2021 while there were still mask mandates and gathering restrictions, but Westwood was open for business. Mayor Arroyoʼs Economic Task Force worked closely with Celebrate Westwood co-chairs Lauren Letizia and RoseAnn Ciarlante to ensure the spotlight stayed on our local businesses. They made the sidewalks available for shopping and dining, designated curbside pickup spots, and hosted shopping events, music on the avenues, and social media campaigns.
I approached Lauren in early 2023 with ideas about what businesses needed to thrive. She came ready with ideas, statistics, and structure. Together, we created BIZhub, a Celebrate Westwood committee, and seamlessly began to offer businesses like mine exposure and support when the Westwood Chamber ceased to operate. BIZhub now has 60 members. I canʼt wait for our Pink Witches Night on Oct. 19!
I am so glad Lauren is running for Borough Council. Without her work, none of these things would be possible. We need her expertise in local government to ensure our community can keep businesses like mine in downtown Westwood.
I hope you will join me in voting for Lauren Letizia and
Mayor Ray Arroyo to keep Westwood an amazing place to live and run a business.
Kimberly Aluotto Westwood Owner, Westwood Candy CompanyTo the editor: “THOSEWHODONOT remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” And what better place to learn about the Westwood of yore then the Westwood Heritage Society? That is where I met Lauren Letizia some years ago. Not only did she thirst for Westwoodʼs background, Lauren volunteered to help by joining the Society and serves as vice president. Her very substantial efforts made the train station a registered
part of history. That was no easy task with red tape and hoops to jump at every turn. Volunteers are rare, sad to say. Actions speak louder than words and Lauren is a person who looks forward to help our community and continues to do so very capably. Now Lauren Letizia is asking to take on a bigger role as part of our Borough Council.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
FROM PAGE 13
I cannot think of a better choice. Please vote for Lauren!
Robert Hibler Westwood President, Westwood Heritage Society; Borough HistorianTo the editor:
Residents, if you love Hillsdale and care about its future.
This is your town and, more importantly, your home, your foundation, and arguably your biggest lifetime investment. It behooves you to get involved, volunteer, go to meetings, ask questions, make suggestions, and know who represents you, your family, and your treasure. The future of Hillsdale is in your hands and should not be blithely entrusted solely to a few wasteful, taxaholic spendthrifts with dubious special interests.
Due to the overt malice and attempted disenfranchisement by the Republican Party Committee and a taxaholic council member who had their egos and feelings hurt for being called out, are acting like Third World totalitarian power despots, determining who
could or should not run for office and, more importantly, taking the choice away from the people, my name, Zoltán Horváth, will not be seen on any ballot, making my bid to run for mayor exponentially more difficult, especially since people tend to blindly vote their party line without generally doing their due diligence, à la the Stockholm Syndrome.
However, if you think that I am worthy and steadfast to continue to represent you, your family, and your best interests, despite and in spite of party affiliations, please vote for me for mayor and write-in Zoltán Horváthas your personal choice via mail-in and/or as a write-in personal choice at the live polling booth for mayor.
Zoltá n Horvá th HillsdaleTo the editor:
DEAR WESTWOODRESIDENTS:
On Aug. 27 I notified Westwood Borough Clerk Karen Hughes and Westwood Republican County Committee Chair Ray Arroyo in writing of my withdrawal from the November 2023 election for Borough Council. I will continue to serve and fulfill
my term on the council and as council president through 2023.
Since the beginning of the year, Iʼve been reflecting on my nearly nine years of service to the borough as your elected official to the governing body. Deeper thought and reflection came in March after being asked to run for a fourth term by our county committee. Although I had reservations, I agreed to represent the Always Westwood Republican ticket in the in the June primary.
Traveling for the past two months, Iʼve given deeper thought to the time I would need to recommit to the borough over the next three years and how this aligned with my five-year goals. After sharing those thoughts with my wife, daughters, and a few close friends and advisors Iʼve concluded that now is the right time to end this successful chapter and complete my role on Borough Council at the conclusion of my term. This will free me up to spend more time with my family, career and hobbies, not to mention exploring a few new adventures.
I have had the honor of working and collaborating with an outstanding group of elected officials and borough staff over the past years. The results of this teamwork yielded measurable progress for our community. A number of these initiatives were spearheaded by me with help from members of the governing body, while other have my fingerprints affixed to them. These initiatives focused on finance, park and infrastructure improvements, public and pedestrian safety, upgrades in our central business district and land use planning.
The result is a more stable budget and improved quality of life for residents today and tomorrow Our community is well posi-
tioned to weather challenges and most importantly capitalize on opportunities that come our way. Iʼm very proud of this.
I am happy to See the Westwood Republican County Committee has added Louise Cue to the ticket replacing me this November. I have known Louise (a.k.a Coach Louise) for over 20 years, she has played a valuable role for residents as coach for Westwood Recreation Girls Basketball and her current role as president of the Westwood Board of Health. Her executive experience in the corporate and nonprofit world will benefit our community.
It has been an honor to serve you and our community for nearly nine years. I thank you for your support in helping to make our community the best in the Pascack Valley. I will continue to be involved — just from a different seat.
Respectfully, Chris Montana Westwood
To the editor:
THE RVCC MENʼSCLUB joined with River Vale Country Club over the Labor Day weekend in sponsoring a fundraising event for Camp Raspberry, a nonprofit organization run by the Pascack Valley Regional High School District.
Like me, I am sure you may never have heard of Camp Raspberry. It is a camp dedicated to special-needs children in the Pascack Valley area, run entirely by student and teacher volunteers from Pascack Hills and Pascack
Valley High schools. The student volunteers work one-on-one with special-needs children and the teachers oversee to make sure everything runs smoothly.
All students must submit an application to be a volunteer and then attend training classes.
Even though we are a small menʼs club and River Vale Country Club is a public golf course, the fundraiser raised over $12,000 thanks to the generosity of the local merchants who donated raffles and sponsored holes. The fundraiser was $25 to enter, which entitled one to a drink, donated by Long Ball Management, who manages the course for the town, a 10% discount ticket donated by Golf Galaxy and entry into over 100 raffles all donated by local merchants.
Membership and the general public gave generously. The average donation and sponsorship ranged $25 to $50, so to raise over $12,000 was amazing.
Many play in charity outings all the time in the hopes of raising money to fund a cure of some terrible diseases. For these children, there is no cure. All we can do is to try and bring some extra joy to their lives.
Camp Raspberry works on a shoestring budget to the point where there are times when they can feed the kids but have to send them to a water fountain for a drink. The students who volunteer to work one on one with these special needs children, get to experience something extraordinary for themselves.
This is truly a local charity with 100% of the proceeds going to Camp Raspberry. This donation will have a big impact on the running of this organization.
You can visit their site at campraspberry.com for more information.
Alan Sotnick Hillsdale
CONTINUED ON PAGE 33
To the editor:
ALTHOUGH WESTWOODFEST was cut short by an encore storm on Saturday afternoon, it succeeded in highlighting the very best of our community. Thank you to the 35 participating businesses, departments, and organizations, and to the attendees for celebrating with us!
ArtsHub, sponsored by YellowDoor Art Studio, debuted an interactive creation cube. Mem-
Club bookended the park. The Westwood Recreation Department demoed their most popular classes, emergency services were on display, and the Westwood Community Band kept us dancing. From end to end, residents, neighbors, and friends enjoyed the afternoon. Thank you all!
As it became apparent that a storm was imminent, the park was suddenly even more alive with a can-do spirit of volunteerism:
bers of the Forever Young Recreation program played pickleball. Westwood Cares collected donations for neighbors in need.
A mini-food court of Westwood eateries, the Westwood Heritage Society, Friends of the Library, and Westwood Garden
Anne and Maria Costello, Alyssa Blundo, Stacy Pappas, Elisabeth Maul, and Westwood police and firefighters helped attendees disassemble their displays and, upon packing up Westwood Pride, Dee Kalaman seamlessly joined them. To these and other residents who
offered unsolicited assistance, thank you!
The skies eventually cleared in time for the music of Nick & Bobby at the Westwood Fire Station. Thank you to the department for hosting, to Jim Mawdsley for organizing, and to Flawless Finish Power Washing for sponsoring.
Thank you to sponsors Harmony Village at CareOne Valley, Paula Clark, Supp Hub, Zion Lutheran Church, Speech Warrior Therapy, CKO Kickboxing, EDJ Acquisitions, and RiseUp Kidz. Looking forward to future community events and program-
en Letizia & RoseAnn Ciarlante Chairs, Celebrate Westwood
R uby-throated h ummingbirds of New Jersey via BirdAdvisors.com.
The next meeting of the Sundial Garden Club, Monday, Oct 2 at 6:30 p.m., features a presentation by Kathy Sauerborn: “Gardening for Hummingbirds.” The Club meets at the Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave. Sauerborn is a master gardener of Passaic County and President of the Clifton Garden Club. She has over 20 years of experience in gardening for hummingbirds in her own wildlife habitat certified by the National Wildlife Federation. She is also a member of the Audubon Society, NJ Audubon, and Bergen County Audubon organizations.
She will review the main nectar plants that are used to feed the ruby throated hummingbird in our area. She will also discuss types of feeders and optimal placement. Whether you have sun or shade, whether you prefer annuals or perennials, there are certain to be flowers for you to try to lure this beautiful bird to your garden. The club welcomes all gardeners and would-be gardeners from the Pascack Valley.
Hillsdaleʼs business community is cordially invited to a first annual business breakfast.
Saying “We want to hear from you – meet other businesses,” the borough writes, “We recognize that small businesses are the heart of our town, the spine of our economy, and the spirit of our Hillsdale.”
The breakfast is Thursday, Sept. 28 at 10 a.m. at Borough Hall. Itʼs free for all Hillsdale businesses. RSVP to mghassali@hillsdalenj.org
Mayor John Ruocco told Pascack Press, “The borough had a Chamber of Commerce many years ago, or so I have been told, but due to a lack of interest it
gradually was abandoned. The council made an attempt several years ago to revive interest, but it didnʼt get far.”
He said, “Several businesses in town have expressed receptivity to the idea more recently. So, this effort to bring together businesses together for a breakfast may be just the thing needed to build upon that most recent effort and rejuvenated interest.”
Ruocco added that whatever stems from this initiative, “I believe that affording the businesses an opportunity to get together with borough professionals and elected officials will have benefits for all.”
The Westwood Regional School District Board of Education 2023 Candidate Forum is set for Monday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave.
The event is hosted by the Westwood Regional High School and George School PSOs, and is moderated by the League of Women Voters of Northern Valley, all non-profit, non-partisan organizations.
Contests at the nine-member board are for for two Township of Washington seats, one Westwood seat, and a one-year unexpired
FROM PAGE 5
The township DPW is storing vehicles and seasonal equipment on the swim club property until a new DPW facility is built. It was not clear if the new facility could house the current DPW vehicle inventory. Vehicles have been stored at the swim club since May 2022, following the siteʼs purchase.
Prior to that, some DPW vehicles were stored at Our Lady of Good Counsel on a monthly lease agreement. (See “Calamari: $4.5M DPW Plan wonʼt fit all vehicles, equipment,” Michael Olohan, Aug. 21, 2022.)
A new $5 million DPW facility is planned on the site of the former DPW facility, which was razed last year due to soil and ground contamination from leaking gasoline and oil storage containers that occurred in the 1970s and 1980s. Further discussion and a possible decision on the DPW facility final design may occur at the councilʼs Sept. 18 meeting. We requested a copy of
FROM PAGE 9
tyʼs estimate of $5 million, for a total $7.6 million cost, offers ground floor expansion for prisoner handling space, and police department use of council chambersʼspace. It includes interior renovations on main floor to achieve state DOCrequired spaces, ADA restrooms and clearances, minimal renovation of lower floor for police storage, and a takeover of council chambers for police department use,
Arcari Iovino suggested two possible options for relocating the council chambersʼspace. One was to combine the council chambers with the current sen-
term for the township.
Township candidates are incumbent appointees James T. Parrino and Irene Fenarjian and challengers Heather M. Perrin and Loni Azzolina.
Westwood candidates are newcomers Nicole Martin and Darren Deluca.
Boswellʼs proposed engineering survey. The topographic survey of the swim club property will include elevations and locations of items including, but not limited to buildings, pavement, walls, fences, visible utilities, utility markouts, and trees (6 inches in diameter or greater).
Moreover, field surveys of drainage and sanitary facilities, including pipes, will be done from above ground and be approximate, said the survey proposal.
The proposal notes that Boswell will produce a drawing of the entire site that shows all boundary and topographic data with contours provided at onefoot intervals and elevations. The timeline for the survey report was estimated to be five to eight weeks, said the proposal.
Last December, Calamari was questioned about what future uses Boswell would recommend on the swim club property He told council then that he could ask Boswell for an opinion on potential recreational uses on the swim club property before a final decision was made on what might go there, or whether council would vote to accept the county Open Space grant.
iorsʼspace; the second option was to move council chambers to the new DPW complexʼs second floor.
The architect noted combining council chambers and seniorsʼspace “is viable but would cause scheduling and territorial issues.” Also, the furnishings needed would require set up and break down for a range of events.
Meanwhile, the architect said the current DPW building plan utilizes only two-thirds of the new facilityʼs second floor, noting the council chambers and its support spaces can fit on the second floor, while keeping some DPW office space at town hall.
Answering council questions, Iovino estimated that Option 1 would take approximately nine months to complete
Competing for the Townshipʼs unexpired one-year term are incumbent Stacey Price and Jorge E Pertuz.
Voters in both towns sent in questions for the event by the Sept. 14 deadline.
Board president Michael Pontillo of Westwood is not running for re-election.
Terms expiring in 2024: those of Kristen Pedersen and Andrea Peck of Westwood. Terms expiring in 2025: those of Laura Cooper and Jason Garcia of Westwood, and Douglas Cusato of the Township of Washington.
He said then that a survey was underway on the potential uses of the site.
In December, Calamari had said that recreation officials told him they wanted more field spaces at the swim club and that he would reach out to officials to get a better understanding of potential future uses on the site. It was not clear if recreational fields were possible or not.
Also, in July 2022, councilman Steven Cascio speculated to Pascack Press that it could take up to five years before the swim club property is ready for use by residents.
Cascio told us then that the topography of the site makes it likely that only one recreational field can be placed there.
He said then that to demolish all the structures there, including the pools, and start from scratch to make the site into active and passive recreational uses would likely cost $2.5 million to $3 million.
Efforts to contact the mayor and administrator for comment on the swim club topographic survey and future recreational uses were not returned by press time.
once renovations began and Option 2 would likely be about six months to complete once construction had begun.
Iovino said Option 3 would be the “least disruptive” to police operations but that the new DPW complex might be complete by late 2024 and then police/council renovations could possibly be completed by mid2025.
“Keep in mind that other project costs will apply, such as furniture, professional fees for architecture and engineering, and any other improvements planned for the property. As more information is developed for this site and project, we can offer a more refined opinion of the probable construction value. Please treat this opinion as preliminary,” concludes the Arcari Iovino proposal.
Everest Kitchen Design is happy to introduce its newest kitchen and bath showroom, 55 Emerson Plaza East, Unit 103, Emerson.
With more than 100 years of combined experience and excellence, Everest Kitchen Design is committed to customersʼneeds and expectations. “We offer cabinet
customerʼs wants and needs. She offers a fresh, new eye to design while still valuing traditional ways and methods.
Larissa grew up with an engineer step-dad, looking at blueprints from an early age. She frequently redesigned her room, starting around age 10, moving furniture, replacing bedding, and painting.
manufacturers like Omega, Fabuwood, Woodmode, Europa, Brookhaven, Kabinart and many more to satisfy all budgets. We also offer countertops, cabinet hardware, and several quick-ship vanities.”
The company started in 2012 under Cabinets4Less with the same dedication to customers. It grew to three showrooms over the years and expanded into Montclair under Everest Kitchen Design, offering its first custom to semi custom cabinetry lines.
Designers include Ashley Deleon and Larissa Pizzulli in the Emerson showroom and David Earl and Jessica Torres in tje Montclair showroom.
Ashley is finishing her B.F.A in interior design at Kean University and plans to continue to her masterʼs degree. Ashley recalls she and her mother would always work on DIY projects together around their house, which is what drew her toward the design world.
With her familyʼs support, she moved from Miami, Fla. to North Jersey to pursue her career.
She prides herself on her keen eye to materials and finishes and her ability to really understand her
She says she always knew sheʼd do something design related growing up.
In high school, she discovered the “Saturday Live” program at the Fashion Institute of Technoogy and began taking classes in interior design. She took them throughout high school, built a portfolio, and used that portfolio to get into the interior design program at FIT, graduating in 1999.
She worked at a design firm in the city for about a year, but didnʼt like the furniture/fabric aspect and moved on. Taking a job at Home Depot, she discovered kitchen design, and found her calling. She took classes, moved up quickly, then on to retail showrooms.
Larissa is especially good with color and visualization. She credits her success to “really listening to what a client wants and needs in a space.” Every person is unique, and every space is a unique reflection of the end user. This is something Larissa came to understand early on, and keeps at the forefront of every design presented to her.
The firm says “We are a small company, but our size allows our dedicated professionals to offer personalized service to each and
every client. Each of our designers is highly skilled and uses the latest software and tools to bring your kitchen to life. No kitchen is too small, oddly shaped or challenging for our team. Part of our success is our customers repeat sales, satisfaction, and word of mouth recommendations.”
It adds, “We invite you to stop by our new showroom and meet with our designers to create the kitchen of your dreams.” Free measurements and consultations are available. To schedule yours, call today at (551) 8882300.
Before moving forward with a proposed $8,500 drone study of Pascack Brook, the Borough Council hopes to hear from a Boswell Engineering representative in October.
Councilman Zoltán Horváth said he wanted to ask questions, as well as provide an opportunity for public questions, of a Boswell representative before council approval of the Boswell study.
Borough administrator Michael Ghassali said he would r equest a Boswell official be present at the Oct. 3 or 10 council meeting.
He said that the council did not yet approve drone study funding though the issue has been discussed several times. (See “Council floats on drone study of brook,” Michael Olohan, March 27, 2023, Pascack Press.)
Hillsdale might soon join with at least two other Pascack Valley towns in approving a flyover study of the Pascack Brook, which was done earlier this year in Washington Township and is planned for fall in Westwood.
Ghassali, also Montvale mayor, said that Boswell engineers will “actually walk the
FROM PAGE 1 to the Bergen County Commissioners.
Moreover, the Trust Fund Committee awarded a total of slightly over $2 million to 14 Pascack Valley and Northern Valley towns.
Based on preliminary recommendations, Washington Township received two grants, a land acquisition grant for $550,000 to acquire a 3.2-acre tract at 450 Pascack Road; and a parks improvement grant for $60,111 for phase I engineering, surveying and environmental testing at the 6.2-acre former township swim club.
Park Ridge, meanwhile, was also recommended to receive the largest historic preservation grant this year, $412,150, for renovation of the boroughʼs historic Train Station.
Other Pascack Valley towns recommended for park improvement grants:
•$60,111 for Emerson, Ackerman Park: Renovation of basketball courts. Ackerman Park, off of Ackerman Avenue, consists of lighted and newly repaved basketball courts, a bocci court, and two sets of playground equipment: one for kids 2–5 and one for kids 6–12. There are also picnic tables and benches.
The Kyle Griffin Memorial, commemorating the Emerson res-
COUNCILMAN JOHN ESCOBAR
said at the Sept. 12 council meeting that the Police Committee recommended Capt. Sean Smith, a nearly 30-year veteran, as its choice to replace Chief Robert Francaviglia, whose last day on duty is Oct. 24.
The council voted, 6-0, to promote Smith, effective Jan. 1, 2024.
On Francavigliaʼs departure, Smith will serve as officer-in-charge until Jan. 1, when he will be official in the role. Members then c ongratulated Smith warmly.
Mayor John Ruocco wrote Sept. 13, “The governing
brook and take pictures” of the brook.
Moreover, he said the data collected by Boswell will help to inform a larger, state-funded regional study being coordinated by Westwood and Stevens Institute of Technology. That study was announced by Republican Sen. Holly Schepisi, (R-39) at an August meeting in Westwood.
The study will develop a regional Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO)
ident who was killed while serving in Iraq, is at the entrance to the park.
• $60,111 for Montvale, Memorial Park, 1 Memorial Dr.: New synthetic turf field, drainage and fencing;
• $60,111 for Park Ridge, Sulak Field; Lighting system installation with underground electric poles;
• $60,111 for River Vale, Upper Grove (Library) Park; new patio, outside stage, and eating area; and
• $60,111 for Westwood, Westvale Pump Park track circuit for mountain and BMX bikers.
The total amount of land acquisition, historic preservation and park improvement grants recommended by the advisory committee for 2023 totals $11,510,624, said county officials.
The grants wonʼt be officially awarded until approved by the commissioners, most likely at a December commissionersʼmeeting, said a county spokesperson. A public hearing will be held Tuesday, Oct. 24, by the commissioners on the grant recommendations.
Township of Washington looking for property purchase near Memorial Field, more recreation amenities
“That is excellent news,” said Township administrator Mark DiCarlo, after he learned of the preliminary grant award of $550,000 for 450 Pascack Road.
Efforts to reach the mayor and Council President Desserie
body … expressed great confidence in Captain Smithʼs ability to fill the ʻlarge shoesʼof our outgoing chief. Please join me in wishing Chief Francaviglia well in his retirement and in congratulating Captain Smith on his promotion and in wishing him well as he continues a 26-year career dedicated to serving the residents of Hillsdale.”
Francaviglia is a second-generation Hillsdale officer. His father, who served 27 years with the agency, retired as a lieutenant.
The chief attended Fairleigh Dickinson University, receiving a MAS in public administration, and the prestigious Command and Leadership Academy offered by the NJ State Association of Chiefs of
model and strateg y that will enable Woodcliff Lake Reservoir levels to be lowered before storm events when necessary to mitigate downstream flooding and also maintain optimum reservoir water supplies.
The FIRO model is used in New York State and California to control reservoir levels and help to mitigate reservoir water releases and flooding, officials previously said.
Ghassali said at the Aug. 8
Police, FBI LEEDA Academy in leadership, as well as many other educational programs.
Smith is a department and borough history author, and a Marine veteran of the Gulf War. A Tenafly native, he joined the department in January 1997, made sergeant in 2012, and lieutanant in 2015.
Pascack Pressmeeting that he would reach out to Boswell Engineering for a formal proposal after several council members asked to see a detailed scope of work and ask Boswell to send a representative to the next meeting.
However, he told Pascack Press he was hoping to avoid the extra hourly charges for an engineer to show up at a council meeting and hoped he could answer the councilʼs questions.
Previously, Ghassali said
that Veolia North America agreed that once a study is done by the participating towns, and a regional brook remediation plan is developed, Veolia will fund up to $100,000, or 30% of the cost of brook and stream bank upgrades.
So far, only the Township of Washington has completed a study on stream conditions in Musquapsink Brook, a tributary of Pascack Brook.
T hat report found more than 100 obstructions impeding stream flow, including streambank erosion, sediment shoals, and downed trees, plus critical issues where erosion was undermining at least two concrete sanitary manholes owned by the township.
TANS Council Liaison
A regional citizens group, Taxpayers For Aircraft Noise Solutions (TANS), which hopes t o reduce jet aircraft noise affecting Pascack Valley towns, are seeking council liaisons from the 10 towns in greater Pascack Valley to work with the group. The group has made its case via a written appeal to the FAA, who responded, and TANS is working on a response.
Ruocco asked councilman Justin Fox if he would serve as
CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
and $60,111 grant, the county has awarded the township slightly over $1 million in Open Space grants in two years.
Northern Valley Grant Awards Nearby, some Northern Valley towns recommended for grants included:
The Borough of Westwood looks good for a county open space grant of $60,111 for “Westvale Pump Park track circuit for mountain and BMX bikers.” Albert’s Westwood Cycle photo via Facebook.
Morgan for comment were not returned by press time.
The Township of Washington purchased the swim club for $800,000 in April 2022 for conservation and recreation purposes. It is trying to determine the best recreational uses for the property, while storing some seasonal DPW vehicles and equipment there.
The townshipʼs May 2023 grant proposal for 450 Pascack Road notes the total cost of the property at $950,000, with $900,000 as the purchase price, and $50,000 in soft costs such as engineering, planning, and likely demolition.
The estimated $550,000 county grant equals approximately 58% of the total $950,000 purchase price. If the grant amount is awarded, the township would still need to pony up nearly $400,000 to acquire the 450 Pascack Road property
The township had applied for a $900,000 grant to purchase the property DiCarlo told Pascack
Press in May that the $900,000 figure was determined by “negotiations/discussions between the Township attorney and sellerʼs attorney supported by appraisals.”
The proposal states the price was based on a “negotiated letter of intent with a purchase price of $900,000.” (See “Township reaching for open space funds on 450 Pascack,” Michael Olohan, May 5, 2023, Pascack Press.)
In summer 2021, the township offered $430,000 for the property, under threat of condemnation. Negotiations with the owners have been ongoing since then.
In addition, the township received a $60,111 park improvement grant for phase I engineering, surveying and environmental testing at the former 6.2-acre swim club at 464 Ridgewood Blvd. North.
Between the 2022 Open Space grant for $438,750 to acquire the former swim club property, and this yearʼs $550,000
• $125,000 for Cresskill; Craford Park Phase 2 Sports field lighting and new playground;
• $146,730 for Demarest, Wakelee Field: Turf infield of softball field, drainage improvements; $125,026 for Englewood: Herring Field; Turf field for baseball and football, fencing and goal posts;
• $100,000 for Haworth; Memorial Field: Dugouts, bocce courts, basketball court and fencing repairs;
• $80,000 for Northvale, Hogan Park: Remove & replace fencing at baseball and softball fields;
• $146.730 for Norwood: Kennedy Field ADA-accessible playground; and
• $60,111 for Old Tappan; Old Tappan Golf Course installing drainage piping, plus renovations of bunkers.
The above recommended awards do not include all municipalities receiving Open Space grants in 2023. For a complete list of recommended awards, contact the county commissionersʼoffice.
Beth Am Temple in Pearl River, which has many members from the Pascack Valley, announces new clergy, the starting date for religious school and schedule of High Holy Day services.
During the summer, cantorial student and educator Erica Rubin joined Beth Amʼs clergy and immediately began meeting temple members, participating in weekly services and planning for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur observances and religious school
music classes.
She served as cantor intern and Jewish educator at Temple Beth Tikvah in Wayne and cantor and Jewish educator at Congregation Sons of Israel in Upper Nyack, N.Y.
Rubin is studying at the Academy for Jewish Religion, Cantorial Program and Jewish Studies.
Religious school classes for kindergarten through seventh grade start on Sunday, Sept. 10 and Tuesday, Sept. 12. Grades K–2 will meet together for 90 minutes.
Classes for grades 3–7 will be divided into three, 20-minute sessions with students learning three different Hebrew prayers. Students will have the opportunity to progress at their own level. Once a prayer is mastered, they will move on to the next. They will reunite for a Judaica session.
Hebrew High School and Confirmation classes are also offered. Registration is open and enrollment forms are available at bethamtemple.org/forms/religiousschool-forms-information
In-person Erev Rosh Hashana services begin on Friday, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are not required for the service. First and second day Rosh Hashana services begin at 10 am and tickets are necessary for the Saturday morning service which will be followed by Tashlikh at 1:15 p.m. Tickets are not required to attend the second day service.
Beth Amʼs Kol Nidray service starts at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 24. The Monday morning Yom Kippur observance begins at 10. Tickets are required for the Sunday evening and Monday morning services. All are welcome to attend
the Healing Service, Young Childrenʼs Service, Afternoon Service, Yizkor, Neilah/Concluding Service and Break the Fast.
Information about tickets for services for nonmembers is available by email at i nfo@BethAmTemple.org, calling (845) 735-5858 or visiting bethamtemple.org/high-holiday-tickets
Beth Am Temple is a reform temple, which embraces tradition and draws its congregation from throughout Rockland and northern Bergen counties at 60 East Madison Ave. in Pearl River, N.Y.
WESTWOOD
Mrs. Michele Meisten has been in the Lutheran teaching ministry for 50 years. She has served at Zion for 49 years and next year begins her 50th year here. On Sunday, Oct. 15 we will recognize this blessed event at our 10:15 a.m. worship service. Those able are welcome to attend that service. There will be a reception afterward in our undercroft.
Mrs. Meisten, as she is lovingly known throughout Westwood, has touched the lives of thousands through her work through school, church, scouting and many volunteer groups, including Eastern Star and Rainbow Girls. She has led the Zion Lutheran Church Girls Choir for more than 40 years and served as Zion Lutheran School elementary principal for 13 years — in addition to her nursery duties. She is a gift to our community and has been a blessing to many.
Zion Lutheran
To learn more about the service that day, visit zionwestwoodnj.org or zionluthernschool.org
Zion Lutheran Church and Early Childhood Center
The Emerson Seniors are headed to the Riverview Inn in Matamoras, Pa. on Thursday Sept. 21. Included are a luncheon with free beer and wine, and a nightclub-style show starring JJ Russell.
The price is $ 70 per person. The bus leaves the Senior Center at 9:15 a.m. Make checks out to the Emerson Seniors; no cash accepted. Questions? Call Jeanneann Scarano at (551) 404-7359 or Jo Monahan at (201) 265-1933.
The River Vale Senior Club meets Sept. 20 after the summer break. Members are welcomed back with a light lunch and a “Friendly Feud” with prizes for the winning teams. It will be a fun afternoon for all. New members are welcome. For more information call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.
The Hillsdale Free Public Library presents “Women ROCK! 15 Iconic Women Who Shaped Music,” Sept. 30 at 2 p.m.
A fun and informative live music program presented by musicians Kirsten Thien and Erik Boyd (right), “highlighting 15 prolific women who left their indelible markon the music world, forging new paths for future stars and securing their place in music history.” Drop in.
The library is at 509 Hillside Ave. For more information call (201) 358-5072 or visit hfpl.org
While youʼre at the library: Joan Koppel is this monthʼs featured artist. See her collection of 28 watercolor paintings. Her work is for sale and on exhibit through Sept. 30.
The Township of Washington Public Libraryʼs Book Cooks is back through November with CSA box videos. For more information visit twpofwashingtonpl.org
St. Andrewʼs 50-Plus Club meets Wednesday, Oct. 4 at 1 p.m. in the gym. Entertainment is by Don Anthony. Halloween attire is encouraged. Cake and coffee will be served. Please bring an item or donation for the food pantry. New members are always welcome. Questions? For more information call Elaine at 201-664-7037.
The Park Ridge Fire Prevention Bureau sponsors its annual free babysitting clinic at the firehouse: Session 1 is Monday, Oct. 2; Session 2 is Tuesday, Oct. 3. Both are 7–9 p.m. Attend both sessions for certification. CPR is not taught at this clinic. Open to area children in 5th grade and above, and at least 10 years old.
Experts from the Park Ridge fire and police departments and the Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps, and a local pediatrician, will present information for safe babysitting.
Pre-registration is required. To register your child or for more information, email Tammy at smilealways@optonline.net Include your childʼs full name, age, a parentʼs name and telephone number, and the town you live in. You will receive a confirmation email.
Announcing the 14th Annual Township of Washington Town Day Family Fall Festival and Kids Entrepreneur Corner, Saturday, Oct. 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Memorial Field, Pascack Road, rain or shine.
Children aged 8–18 are invited to sell their handmade arts and crafts items at the festival. Table space and a chair are provided. The deadline is Sept. 23 to sign up at https://tinyurl.com/twpentrepreneur For more information write publicaffairsasst@TwpOfWashington.
us Describe your booth idea including what you will be selling. The festival committee will review and let you know if your booth has been approved. No food items are permitted. Examples: pottery, paintings, bracelets, etc. You may also opt to sell items with proceeds benefiting a charity of your choice.
The Park Ridge Police Department invites you to its premier community policing event of the year: Back to Scoop Night 2023 at the Park Ridge Dairy Queen is a go for for Wednesday, Sept. 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is open to all Park Ridge Elementary School children, grades K–6. Families will enjoy free ice cream, cotton candy, popcorn, a bounce house, and music.
Grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, delicious picnic foods, a jumping castle, face painting, cornhole, fun games for all ages, a DJ spinning party tunes, and prizes are all in the works for this yearʼs annual Community Block Party on the front lawn of Parkside Community Church from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23. All are welcome. The church is at 3rd and Park, next to Veteranʼs Memorial Park.
For more information and to sign up to attend, visit http://parksidechurch.net or call (201) 6668998.
Give blood. Help save lives. You can do so at a blood drive at Arya Samaj of New Jersey Vedic Hindu Temple Hall, 32 Park Ave. (aryasamajofnj.org), on Saturday, Sept. 30 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
To schedule an appointment visit RedCrossBlood.org and use sponsor code VedicHinduTemple or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1800-733-2767).
Streamline your donation experience and save up to 15 minutes by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass to complete your pre-donation reading and health history questions on the day of your appointment.
The Park Ridge Recreation Departmentʼs tennis and golf clinics start the week of Sept. 18. Students in grades K–5 can learn these lifetime sports from professional coaches without purchasing any equipment. Tennis takes place at West Ridge Elementary School on Tuesdays. Golf takes place at East Brook Elementary School on Wednesdays. Grades K–2 meet at 6:45 p.m. and grades 3–5 meet at 7:45 p.m. Register, and soon, at playtga.com/bergencounty For more information call (201) 573-1800 ext. 521.
The Emerson Environmental Commission is holding its Emerson Upcycle Garage Sale on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The application is available online. To be included in their brochure, complete the application via emersonnj.org and return it to the Borough Clerkʼs office (146 Linwood Ave.) with a $15 donation by check to the Borough of Emerson by Monday, Oct. 2.
Bergen Volunteers Redefining Retirement info session Thursday, Sept. 14 from 10 to 11 a.m. via Zoom. Looking for ways to repurpose your skills and life experiences? Liaisons will offer attendees insight into the nonprofit community, demonstrating the ways new retirees can utilize their expertise and skills toward volunteer service. Volunteers are needed for many roles across member agencies. Will help you find the right opportunity
k P Prreesss s w weellccoommees s club news, meeting listings, volunteer opportunities, religious-service schedules, class and workshop dates, etc.
Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley, an egalitarian Cons ervative synagogue serving Woodcliff Lake and the surrounding Pascack and Saddle R iver Valley communities, invites the public to join in a Community Yizkor Service on Yom Kippur afternoon, Mond ay Sept. 25 at 4:30 p.m. The service will be held outdoors in the Rabbi Unger Garden A mphitheater. In event of inclement weather, the service will be moved into the ballroom.
T he Community Yizkor Service is free and open to the public, without any membership or other affiliation requirement.
Call (201) 391-0801 for info and tickets, or request tickets at tepv.shulcloud.com.
The Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club holds its first meeting of the new club year on Monday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. in the community meeting room of the Park Ridge Borough Hall.
The meeting will focus on plans for the club for the coming year
The club is sponsoring a Sunday Afternoon High Tea on Oct. 15 at the Montvale Senior Center. The tea will be the first major fundraiser for the club year, with proceeds benefiting the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation, the GPVWC Scholarship Fund, and other local charities.
The meeting is open to all Pascack Valley residents who are interested in helping make our community a better place. For more information contact Carolyn Delafrange at (201) 819-1000 or GPVWC1990@gmail.com
The Larry Stevens Band performs on Saturday, Sept. 23 at the Bergen County Fall Festival in Ridgefield Park. Stevens, a Pascack Valley singer/songwriter, entertains from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at Overpeck Park Amphitheatre. The Stevens sound is a winning amalgamation of Springsteen, the Beatles, Harry Styles, America, and more. Free; kids contest.
The annual Fall Harvest Festival —free parking, free admission — runs Friday, Sept. 22, Saturday, Sept. 23, and Sunday, Sept. 24. See the schedule for midway, rides, games, exhibits, craft fair, and entertainment. Bring non-perishable food items for the Bergen County Food Security Task Force.
For more information visit facebook.com/bergen4H.
The world of stamp collecting also known as philately — with all of its interesting and educational aspects — comes to life for the members and guests of the Pascack Stamp Club on the second Monday of each month at the River Vale Public Library.
Anyone with an interest in stamp collecting is welcome to attend a meeting. For more information visit http://pascackstampclub.weebly.com.
The All American Corvette Club (AACC) is holding its 22nd Annual Car Show on Sunday, Oct. 1. Rain dates are Oct. 15 and 29, as needed.
AACC (online at AllAmericanCorvetteClub.com) is a Corvette club in Bergen County “earning the reputation as the finest Corvettes in the area.” The 2023 AACC car show will be held at the Panera Bread parking area, 165 Route 4 West, Paramus.
Organizers tell Pascack Press, “The primary focus of the club is to support various charities and those in need. AACC has donated tens of thousands of dollars to The Wounded Warrior Project; Evaʼs Village in Paterson; Park Ridge, Hillsdale, Paramus, and Fair Lawn food banks; and Hackensack Childrenʼs Hospital.
This year, St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital is supported as well. Donations have been raised through the generosity of many sponsors, dedicated show partici-
FaithWorks Thrift Shop invites you to its $1 (or less) sale on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Monday, Sept. 18 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Luxury items will be on sale for $5 each.
Marion Garnsey tells Pascack Press, “We need to make room for our fall and winter items which have been generously donated. A large assortment of merchandise is available: clothing for infants, children, teens and adults, household goods including small appliances, picture frames, dishes, glassware, handbags, scarves, books, toys and jewelry.”
As part of the mission and outreach program of Westwood United Methodist Church, FaithWorks Thrift Shop offers quality merchandise at reasonable prices. The shop is at Westwood United Methodist Church, corner of Kinderkamack Road and Bergen Street, a block from downtown and Five Corners. Merchandise donations are gladly accepted during the hours of operation: Mondays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and the first and third Saturdays of the month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All money collected is given to a variety of charities both local and international.
For more information call the church office at (201) 664-0755 or visit umc-westwood.org
Whoʼs got the softball talent in River Vale? The township is excited to announce the introduction of a co-ed softball tournament in partnership with the Volunteer Fire Department on River Vale Town Day, Oct. 1. There will be four teams: Fire Department, Police Department, Coaches and RV Residents.
The RV team will consist of 15 players who will be chosen via a random drawing on Sept. 25 ( if there are more than 15 entries).
To enter, you must be a River Vale resident age 18 and up. Zap your name, email address and home address to RVDaySoftballTournament@gmail.c om. The deadline to enter is Sept. 23. You will be notified by Sept. 25 if you were selected. If you are selected, you will receive a RV Resident tournament shirt.
There will be three games played. The winner of the first two games will play the championship game.
•9 a.m. Game 1 (with teams A & B) and Game 2 (with teams C & D)
• 10:30 a.m. Game 3 Championship (winners, games 1 and 2)
For more information write RVDaySoftballTournament@ gmail.com
The River Vale Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is looking for additional men and women to join the ranks of citizen volunteers within the Township.
Park it! The All American Corvette Club (AACC) is holding its 22nd Annual Car Show on Sunday, Oct. 1. Rain dates: Oct. 15 and 19.
pants, and spectators.
The car show has two formats: a fully judged Corvette show and an open show of classics, hot rods, customs and trucks. More than 100 trophies will be awarded across all classes. Souvenir trophies and American flags will be distributed to the first 200 entrants.
There will be door prizes
announced throughout the judging process. For the convenience and enjoyment of all participants and spectators, there will be music by DJ Nick-at-Nite, food vendors, Panera Restaurant and multiple bathrooms for all. Spectators are encouraged with free admission.
This group is composed of residents ages 18 and up who receive specialized training in the various areas of emergency management and response.
The purpose of the CERT program is to train ordinary citizens to care for themselves, their family, their neighbors and finally, their community, in case of an emergency These volunteers will
Let
Send
help to improve the response and preparedness of the community and the emergency services.
The CERT training and education experience forms a crucial link between the community and the professional emergency response teams. CERT training is a great way to feel more empowered to protect yourself, your family and potentially your community The next training session starts Sept. 26.
For more information visit www.rivervalenj.org/155/Training or contact deputy OEM coordinators Bill Peters or Linda Wayne.
This is the perfect time to start good habits. Start going to bed earlier and start waking up earlier. When you wake up, swish coconut oil around in your mouth and spit it out. This is called oil pulling and helps to kill off the bacteria in your mouth and is best to do first thing in the morning. Then, on an empty stomach, drink warm water with a pinch of pink himalayan salt and squeeze lemon in there as well.
Next, wash your face with cold water and gargle intensely for 30 seconds. This helps with your parasympathetic nervous system to keep you calm, cool and collected. Do not drink coffee right away and especially not on an empty stomach in the morning. This creates problems with dehydration, stress,
energy, sleep, anxiety, and can lead to many other health problems down the road.
Start a good exercise routine. I do not care if it is just a walk around the block, but find something that you like to do in the morning to get your body moving.
Spend quality time with the people you love. Building relationships with loved one is super important, and meeting new people is really good for the brain as well.
This is the perfect time to make achievable goals. Make goals for relationships, health, spirituality, business, charity, education, art, hobbies, money, and whatever else is important to you. It becomes more powerful and more achievable if you say it out loud and write it down.
Start habits for building your memory. Learn Sudoku, or download an app designed to teach you a new language. Invest in a new instrument to learn how to play, just for fun.
Meditation is another brain-
healthy practice. Simple approaches can eventually have a major impact on your memory.
Neuroscience also suggests to improve memory and brain function make sure you have good vitamin D levels and are drinking lots of water to stay hydrated. Nutrition is vital so avoid too much sugar and carbohydrates and try not to have junk food in your pantry so you are not tempted. Remember, out of sight out of mind.
Most importantly, your brain should be evaluated by a functional neurologist to determine specific areas of brain dysfunction which could be affecting your focus, memory, mood, energy, balance, posture, sleep, digestion, heart function, and many other issues.
This week, we are offering free Brain Health Evaluations! This brain test is called the MOCA and
is the standard evaluation test most neurologists use around the world to diagnose Alzheimer's disease or to see if there is any dementia, memory loss, or brain dysfunction. It is a quick, non-invasive test that only takes 5–10 minutes to complete.
If you are concerned about your memory or the memory of a family member, I advise you to take advantage of this FREE brain test, but call, text or email right away because it is only for the first seven people that contact us. This is an amazing value and opportunity, so please email us at info@kaplanbrainandbody.com or call our office at 646-221-6738 to book your appointment today.
To show current and new patient appreciation, we are offering our qEEG Brain Mapping for only $21 ($500 value) for each and every working day from until the last day of the summer. You can use this
special for as many friends and family you would like!
Brain Mapping can help determine if you have abnormal brain waves related to focus, motivation, brain fog, anxiety, depression, fatigue, stress, anger, confusion, thyroid disease, diabetes, insomnia, inflammation, and more. It is painless, non-invasive, and radiationfree.
We are also excited to announce that we now offer our qEEG and Neurofeedback services at our locations in New York and New Jersey. We see patients in our New York office on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and in our New Jersey office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays and Saturdays. Lastly, listen to my radio show BOOST YOUR BRAIN POWER every Saturday on 970 AM at 8am and 710 AM at 2 pm. Always remember...feel better, function better, live better.
Yoga, Zumba, art, tennis, theatre, chess, dance and more are on offer for the Westwood Recreation Departmentʼs 2023 fall programs.
The program guide is available at westwoodnj.gov/recreation and includes class details, registration information and special notices as well.
Registration began on Sept. 5 for residents and Sept. 11 for nonresidents for an additional $25 fee. All registrations take place via Community Pass at https://register.communitypass.net/westwood
For adults the fall programs include tennis, volleyball, outdoor circuit training, Zumba, yoga, painting, cooking as well as Parent-and-Me classes for soccer, art and movement. Preschoolers can enjoy dance, art, piano, soc-
cer and sports.
Enrichment classes include chess, dance, theatre, art, and Lego STEM while sports include tennis, golf and girls volleyball.
Residents are also reminded that registration for Recreation basketball for Westwood residents and wrestling for Westwood and Township of Washington residents also began on Sept. 5. Both sports are open for boys and girls in grades 1–8.
Westwood and Township of Washington middle-schoolers can also look forward to the opening of the Teen Center on October 6th. The annual Pumpkin Painting event will take place on Oct. 16 for residents in grade PK-8. Registration starting Oct. 2 is required.
The annual Childrenʼs Hal-
loween Parade is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 28 and residents are reminded to mark their calendars for the 9 a.m. start for activities in Veterans Park.
Details for these programs can be found in the program guide at westwoodnj.gov/recreation
Westwood residents and neighbors who participate in Westwood Recreation programs receive information on upcoming classes in programs guides, emails and on social media.
Westwood Recreation programs and forms are listed at westwoodnj.gov/recreation
Spaces are also available for the Westwood Recreation Preschool Pre-K and 3-year-old classes. Visit westwoodnj.gov/recreation and select the preschool icon.
What do you get when you combine Disneyʼs greatest composer with Dickensʼclassic “A Christmas Carol?” You get the longest running family holiday spectacular in Broadway history!
Bergen County Players (BCP) is pleased to announce open auditions for “A Christmas Carol: The Musical” at the little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell on Tuesday and Thursday, Sept. 12, and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and on Monday, Sept. 18 at 7:30 p.m.
There are numerous opportunities for actors to shine in multiple roles in this 90-minute family spectacular. BCP is seeking a multicultural cast of men, women and kids aged 8–65 and up with fantastic singing, acting, and dancing abilities to play main and supporting roles.
“A Christmas Carol: The Musical” premiered at Madison Square Gardenʼs Paramount Theatre on December 1, 1994, and
ran for eleven straight holiday seasons. Broadway heavy hitters, Alan Menken (“Beauty and the Beast,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Newsies,” “Little Shop of Horrors”) and Lynn Ahrens (“Ragtime: The Musical,” “Seussical,” “Once on This Island,”) created a brand new take on the timeless holiday story of Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.
“A Christmas Carol: The Musical” holds the record as the longest running holiday show in Broadway history.
BCPʼs holiday spectacular is directed by Larry Landsman, director of last seasonʼs hit “Ragtime: The Musical.”
Steve Bell is musical director; Liz Erdmann is handling choreography; Paige Erdmann is assistant choreographer. Producers are Kathleen Ruland and Matt DʼElia, with Alyson Cohn as stage manager.
Open auditions (in order of
arrival — audition priority will be given to minors): Little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell.
•Tuesday, Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m.
– General auditions (vocal and readings)
FROM PAGE 18
council liaison with the group, and Fox said he would let Ruocco know after consulting with the groupʼs leadership. He said he would let Ruocco know by the next meeting.
• Thursday, Sept. 14, 7:30 p.m. – General auditions (vocal and dance)
• Monday, Sept. 18, 7:30 p.m.
– General auditions (vocal and dance).
Callbacks by invitation only
The council also approved two resolutions, both not on the agenda. One, 23-237, w as to approve an engineering proposal for Magnolia Avenue paving. The other, 23-238, promotes police Capt. Sean Smith to chief, effective Jan. 1, 2024.
Council voted 6-0 to approve Resolution 23-237, which hired Colliers Engineering & Design to provide services for
will include readings from the script and singing a song from the show.
Rehearsals: Rehearsals are scheduled to begin immediately following the audition process. All rehearsals will take place at the Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell.
Performances: Public performance dates are Dec. 2–17 Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 12:30 and 4 p.m..
Bergen County Players encourages and is committed to a diverse and inclusive theater experience. Unless otherwise specified, BCP will cast any actor in any role if appropriate, without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, physicality, or disability. Casting will be character-driven; therefore, actors are encouraged to audition for any roles in which they are interested.
Those interested in more information, including the characters, may contact Larry Landsman at LLandsman1157@gmail.com or visit bcplayers.org
repaving Magnolia Avenue at a cost of $59,250.
Council was concerned about middle school-related construction tearing up the roadʼs new paving but Ghassali said the BOE had no timeline on any Magnolia Avenue-related work. It was suggested that a school referendum pay to repair any damage caused by middle school construction.
Academy of the Holy Angels students (and sisters) Aiko and Emma Chang spent part of the summer break working on their dance technique at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy Summer Intensive.
This three-week program for advanced ballet dancers from all over the world was held in New York City from late June through mid-July. Participants took classes, performed, and received expert assessments as they worked on their skills and musicality. Attendees range in age 15–22.
“These auditions are divided into agegroups, and dancers essentially take a ballet class in these groups while being assessed by judges,” Aiko said.
She participated in this program (2019, 2020 virtually, and 2021), was accepted for the 2022 summer. However, the program was paused in solidarity with Ukraine. Her acceptance from2022 rolled over into 2023.
Aiko (AHA ʼ24) has been studying ballet for 15 years. Emma (AHA ʼ27) started 11 years ago. Both sisters take lessons at a local studio.
“I most enjoy the artistic expression that comes from ballet,” Aiko said. “Being able to express emotions and stories without the use of any words is very special and unique to me.”
She said, “Moreover, I enjoy being a part of the ballet community, which is very well connected. Ballet
has been used in the past to foster relationships and connections across
American Legion Post 206ʼs 50/50 raffle drawing is Sept. 30 at 2 p.m. at 264 Washington Ave., Westwood. Tickets are $20 each. First-, second-, and thirdplace prizes are 35%, 10%, and 5% of the amount received for all
countries and cultures during times of conflict, since it is an art form that goes beyond language barriers. Taking that history into account makes
tickets, respectively.
Proceeds support American Legion Post 206 and its charitable efforts for veterans and families in need.
No substitution of the offered prize may be made and that winners need not be present to win. For more information and to pick up your chance call the post at (201) 664-9734 after 3 p.m. or Carl Williams at (201) 446-6047.
being part of the ballet community all the more special.”
She said, “I have met so many amazing artists throughout the years, and getting to know them has expanded my perspective and helped me grow as a person and as an artist. Interacting with international ballet students during this year's BBASI program has been especially impactful for me.”
She said, “I was also able to get a new perspective on language learning since I was able to practice using the Russian language with some of the ballet dancers who came from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow as I was learning the language.”
Emma, a 2023 graduate of AHA Middle School, is entering ninth grade at AHA Upper School.
“I enjoy so manyaspects of ballet,” Emma said. “I find that the challengeand difficulty of ballet give me an opportunity to focus on constantly working toward something. In a way, this is very satisfying. There is always something more to accomplish and I have the chance to push to my fullest potential where I decide my limit. It is hard to describe, but it is so fulfilling. Also, the feeling of performing onstage provides a joy thatis indescribable for me. There is justnothing quite as passionateand refined as ballet.”
Academy of the Holy Angels 315 Hillside Ave., Demarest (20) 768-7822 www.HolyAngels.org
Picture yourself as an Angel. If youʼre an eighth grade girl or transfer student, youʼre invited to the Academy of the Holy AngelsʼUpper School Open House. Visit the campus at 315 H illside Ave. in Demarest on Sunday, Oct 1.
Registration is required. Sign up for a slot between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This is AHAʼs best attended event, so reserve your space at h olyangels.org/admissions/visit-aha today. Be sure to attend with your parent or guardian.
At Open House, you will hear all about AHA Upper School directly from administrators, fac-
PASCACK VALLEYulty, staff, and current students. Learn about AHAʼs mission and culture, nationally acclaimed STREAM curriculum, collegiatestyle schedule, and co-curricular and extracurricular offerings. You will also discover the benefits of an all-girl education, the application process, scholarship and financial aid opportunities, and more. Take a personalized tour of the beautiful, 25-acre campus w ith an Angel Ambassador.
T hese friendly, knowledgeable students will provide you with a firsthand look at life as an Angel, and can easily answer your ques-
tions as you walk together.
Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼschool in Bergen County. While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this prestigious school serves young women from many cultural and religious backgrounds.
AHAʼs leaders continue to further the SSND mission to provide each student with the tools she needs to reach the f ullness of her potential — spiritually, intellectually, socially, andphysically, by o ffering a first-rate education
Hills Valley Coalition has hit the school year running and is pleased to announce that itʼs hosting a special event at Pascack Hills High School on Oct. 3 at 5:30 p.m.:
At Fall Open House, Oct. 1, you will hear about Academy of the Holy Angels Upper School directly from administrators, faculty, staff, and students. AHA photo
i n a nurturing environment w here equal importance is placed on academic e xcellence, c haracter development, moral i ntegrity, and service to others.
CUTTER
“The Teenage Rollercoaster: Navigating the Ups and Downs Utilizing Data Driven Methods.”
The evening features Dr. Christopher Cutter, one of the worldʼs foremost behavioral healthcare researchers and clinicians in the fields of psychotherapy development, behavioral and addiction medicine.
Cutter is the chief of adolescent psychology at Turnbridge in New Haven, Conn. and an assistant professor at Yale School of Medicine Child Study Center.
Hills Valley Coalition — Jen Charnow and Jennifer Zimmermann, HVC coordinators; and
“The Teenage Rollercoaster: Navigating the Ups and Downs Utilizing Data Driven Methods” at PHHS Oct. 3.
Marissa Watters, secretary, said in an update to stakeholders on Sept. 12, “We thank each of you for your continued support of the Hills Valley Coalition, which has unified the prevention efforts of our four town Municipal Alliances in Hillsdale, Montvale, River Vale, and Woodcliff Lake for the past 25 years.”
Charnow and Zimmerman said, “Our success depends on full community involvement and that includes all of you! Come to this
wonderful event on Oct. 3 and attend our meetings. There are four and we meet at night via Zoom.”
They added, “Please join us in our collective efforts to facilitate a substance-free environment for teens in our communities.”
Next meetings, via Zoom, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., are Oct. 2, Dec. 4, Feb. 5, 2024, and May 6.
RSVP for Cutterʼs Oct. 3 presentation “The Teenage Rollercoaster” via hillsvalleycoalition.org
The Ninth Annual Joan's Joy Child Safety Fest is set for Saturday Sept. 30 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the White Butterfly Sculpture and Garden in front of the Hillsdale train station on Hillsdale Ave.
The free event features fun childrenʼs activities; including face painting and balloon twisting as well as a professional dance group, butterfly release, and a singer from American Idol and so much more.
This year the large tricky tray raffle includes 10 eight foot tables full of high-quality baskets and major label gift cards.
A local cafe is serving pastries and snacks and “stand up for child safety” T-shirts will be available.
The event marks 30 years since the movement began to help children and increase child safety awareness in memory of 7-year-old girl Scout Joan DʼAlessandro. A large photo collage highlighting significant events throughout the 30-
year movement will be on display. The foundation tells Pascack Press it appreciates the significant impact of everyone who took part in the effort. “We got to this day together.”
Rosemarieʼs new book Rosemarieʼs new book “The Message of Light Amid Letters of Darkness” will be available for sale at the safety fest.
Rosemarie says “The story is part true crime because it reveals the mind of Joanʼs killer and what evil is really about.”
It is also a memoir, she says, as she describes her experiences after Joanʼs death and her journey to become an advocate changing laws and helping children and victims. For more information or to contribute to the festival write rosebd@email.com or visit JoansJoy.org.
Enjoy a relaxing day with friends at the Academy of the Holy AngelsʼSecond Annual Golf Outing. This event, which is being hosted by the AHA ParentsʼAthletic Association, is Monday, Sept. 25, at the Hackensack Golf Club
Golfers can look forward to experiencing one of New Jerseyʼs top-rated facilities, which features replicas of holes from some of the worldʼs most famous courses. (For GPS directions to the clubhouse, use 1 Golf Club Road in Emerson.) Advance registration is required. Visit the event website https://ahagolf23.givesmart.com for tickets and details.
Proceeds from this event will benefit AHAʼs athletic programs and facilities.
AHA parents who have
stepped into leadership roles include PAA President Kerry Ann Flahive, parent ofMargaret ʼ18, Mary ʼ21, and Molly ʼ26; Event Chair Laura Cutri, parentof Olivia Cutri ʼ26, Lily Cutri ʼ27, and Ava Cutri ʼ29; Mary Ellen Rizzo, parent of Francesca Rizzo ʼ25; Danielle Orlofsky (ʼ91), parent of Reese Orlofsky ʼ23; and Boniface Kiamue, parent of BéTaniaKiamueʼ24.
Festivities will last throughout the day and into the evening. Those who do not golf are welcome to arrive for dinner and the 2023 AHA Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony
For much more information, including profiles of the AHA Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony, visit HolyAngels.org
Editorʼs note: The following article is for informational purposes only.
and still save enough for retirement. The demands often compete with one another—which is why setting clear priorities is so important.
ERIC KOHLMEIER
The “Sandwich Generation”— adults caring for aging parents as well as children—faces several stressful challenges that come from trying to juggle everyoneʼs needs.
One of those top stressors: finances, such as how to cover education and health care costs
Here are six tips for setting those priorities to help you deliver the support your loved ones need—without shortchanging yourself.
•Take care of your future first. Saving enough for retirement should be your top priority. You have to take care of your needs before you help your parents and your children.
• Create or update your investment plan. Create an investment plan that will help you balance your financial goals with the needs of your children and parents. Review your budget, analyze your expenses, and set savings targets to help you prioritize planning for an expense, such as college costs or long-term care for your parents.
•Review your insurance coverage. Protecting your income is always a good idea, but itʼs even more important when you have two generations depending on
you. Make sure you have enough life insurance in case something happens to you to pay off your mortgage and other debt, and to help cover the future living expenses of your dependents.
And donʼt forget disability insurance: More than a quarter of todayʼs 20-year-olds will become disabled before they retire, according to the Council for Disability Awareness.
• Check in on your parentsʼ financial health. Though it might seem awkward, talk to your parents about their wishes for the future and their financial health. What financial assets and expenses do they have? How do they plan to meet their financial obligations? Do they have a plan to cover the costs of long-term care? This conversation can help you determine how much financial support you will need to provide.
Also, make sureyour parents have done adequate estate planning, and ask for copies of their will or trust, durable power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive. Make sure your own estate-planning documents are complete and updated as well.
•Consider reducing financial support for grown children. Many parents still help their grown children with their finances—sometimes even to their detriment. Many young Baby Boomers are still paying their kidsʼ expenses, cell phone bill, or car insurance. If this is the case for you, talk with your
children about the steps they can take to start becoming more financially independent.
•Look for ways to help reduce your taxes. In some cases, you may be able to claim your aging parents as dependents. Also check with a tax advisor to see if their medical expenses qualify as a tax deduction. Another way that may benefit your financial bottom line is to set up a 529 Plan for your childrenʼs education expenses.
Wells Fargo Advisors is not a tax or legal advisor.
All investing involves risk, i ncluding loss of principal. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing in a 529 savings plan.
T he official statement, which contains this and other information, can be obtained by calling your financial advisor. Read it carefully before you invest.
This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director –Investments in Park Ridge at (201) 505-0472.
Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered brokerdealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
© 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR #0119-03128.
We’ve been trained to serve your needs and solve your problems and, for the most part that’s what we do. Obviously, every case is not winable and every crisis doesn’t vanish over night...but appropriate measures taken at the right time can improve situations that once looked hopeless.
We care about our clients and we try to give them the very best that is in us. That’s our promise, so if you need legal help and don’t mind visiting a well used office...give us a call.
Private backyards are now go-to spaces for recreation and entertainment and great places to recharge the body and mind.
One ripple effect of the COVID-19 pandemic was more time spent outdoors, even if it was p redominantly on oneʼs own property. OnePoll, in conjunction with the lawn care company TruGreen, surveyed 2,000 American homeowners and found participants spent 14 hours outside every week in 2021, which was three hours more than prior to the pandemic. In addition, respondents admitted that time spent outdoors was therapeutic.
A separate survey conducted for the International Casual Furnishings Association found that people now spend more time relaxing, gardening, exercising, dining, and entertaining outside than in years past. Though COVID-19 may no longer dominate headlines, the desire to enjoy outdoor spaces has not waned.
While enjoying outdoor living areas, homeowners can do all they can to make these spaces comfortable and welcoming. The following are some good starting points.
Outdoor spaces can be enjoyed no matter the hour when there is ample lighting. That could be why the International Casual Furnishings Association reports those who plan to renovate their outdoor spaces list outdoor lighting as a priority. Outdoor lighting not only sheds light on entertaining spaces, but also makes spaces safer and more secure.
Increase privacy
No matter how friendly homeowners are with their neighbors, there comes a time when privacy is paramount. Fencing, whether it is wood or vinyl, or even a natural fence made from closely planted hedges, can ensure residents feel comfortable venturing outdoors to swim, take a cat nap or even star gaze in private.
Address the elements
Homeowners should note the direction their backyard faces and the typical daily conditions of the space. For example, a yard that faces southwest may get plenty of
strong sun during the day, requiring the addition of shade trees, covered patios or arbors to cut down on the glare and heat. If the yard is often hit by winds, trees or bushes planted strategically as
windbreaks can help.
Sit comfortably
High-quality comfortable seating increases the liklihood that homeowners will want to stay
awhile in their outdoor spaces. A deep seating set complete with plush chairs, outdoor sofa or love seat and chaise lounge chairs gives people more opportunity to sit and stay awhile.
Take a dip
A pool can be the perfect gathering spot on a warm day, while a spa/hot tub can bridge the gap to cooler weather. According to the Family Handyman, soaking in hot tubs can relax tired muscles after a long day, loosen up stiff
joints, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.
Bite back at bugs
Homeowners may want to consider using a professional exterminator to get rid of ticks, mosquitoes and other nuisance insects from outdoor spaces. As people spend more time enjoying their properties, they can consider the many ways to make outdoor living spaces more comfortable
While enjoying outdoor living areas, homeowners can do all they can to make these spaces comfortable and welcoming.
FROM PAGE 14
To the editor:
Iendorse the Arroyo & Letizia campaign for mayor and councilmember in Westwood in 2023
Iʼve been a resident of Westwood, along with my beautiful family, since July 2015. Iʼve had the privilege to collaborate and communicate with Mayor Ray Arroyo on some incredibly sensit ive local topics mainly the r epeat flooding of our great town.
In 2015 my wife and I had just welcomed our first baby girl into the world and shortly after were able to find an incredible house in Westwood. Not fully knowing what we had in store for us when it came to the reality of flooding. A short few years later when Hurricane Ida came bearing down in our area we were left with several feet of water in our basement as a result of the mis-
management of the reservoir by the NJDEP. I reached out to Ray and this is where we began our relationship.
R ay was empathetic and compassionate, and wanted changes. He immediately wanted to help improve Westwood so the community would never again have to suffer the devastation and loss as we all did on that day. His unrelenting focus, drive, and aspiration has helped our leaders put additional visibility on this and for this I am forever indebted to Ray. He has always put his community first whether itʼs at the Halloween fair at Westvale Park or waving to everyone and shaking their hands at our annual Home for the Holidays parade. He will always have the support of myself and my family on his
journey as our leader.
L auren Letizia is another wonderful member of our community. Iʼve had the honor of sitting to her side as an alternate on the all-volunteer Zoning Board of Westwood. Her tireless dedication to making sure the values of our small community are a dhered to in order to keep everything beautiful and safe. Laurenʼs kids attend school with m y oldest daughter and itʼs always great seeing how she volunteers at all of the PTO events to once again give back to the community I support her mission to continue to improve our town, keep the town center booming while keeping the small-town feel.
Frank Mantz Westwood
To the editor: HAVINGLIVED (and paid school taxes) in Westwood
since 1978, raised five children in the school system, currently enjoying having four grandchildren in the same system, celeb rating one graduate from WWRHS 2023, and proudly counting a WT teacher among my offspring, I feel my view-
FROM PAGE 1
ough did not have a site or design for the new facility by the deadline, the borough tried to negotiate with the redeveloper for about six months but eventually filed a breach of contract lawsuit in June 2020.
The late-2018 agreement deeded over the EVAC property to the redeveloper, in the waning days of immediate past mayor D emocrat Louis Lamatinaʼs administration.
In early 2019, Republican M ayor Danielle DiPaola was
sworn in. Consistent with her views and votes from council, DiPaolaʼs mayoral campaign opposed the massive downtown redevelopment, which was approved days before she assumed the gavel.
Since the borough filed its complaint against the redeveloper in 2020, the court case has sparked countersuits filed by both parties, and 735 days of discovery whereby both plaintiff and defendant were allowed time to interview witnesses.
Since summer 2022, construction has continued on the 147-unit Emerson Station project, a residential mixed-use complex, including 15,000 square feet of retail space in the
Registration for the Emerson Community School is now open. New and updated classes are available for children and adults. Classes begin the week of Oct. 2.
Popular classes for children include babysitting, robotics (a different version of the class from the fall), and sewing. Adult classes include the likes of pickleball, health, recreation, cooking, languages, and special interests. For the brochure, visit emersonschools.org, click on Departments, then click on the Community School
heart of downtown Emerson, near the boroughʼs busy train station. Pedestrians and vehicles passing by can view the partly completed complex, which stretches over four downtown blocks.
In summer 2021, the Superior Court appointed a Mount Laurel implementation monitor to help expedite the 29 units of affordable housing approved as part of the mixed-use complex, including 22 on-site units and seven offsite units.
The case w as originally scheduled for arbitration in June 2022, and then was to go to trial in Superior Court in May 2023. Both dates were postponed by the court. The court case trial docket notes the case had two prior trial postponements,
including one in mid-August, 2023, postponed due to a vacation.
(See “Lawsuits tighten around Emerson Station,” Michael Olohan, July 16, 2022.)
F ollowing the August trial postponement, a court notice was sent to all parties, including attorneys for the borough, ERUR, JMF Properties, and Settembrino Architects, to inform them of the October trial date.
Anyone watching or listening to council meetings since the new trial date notices went out in mid-July would be hard-pressed to find any mention of the new date during council sessions. Under most agendas, the closed session items generally include Litigation/Redevelopment
Throughout 2022, the borough and redeveloper traded accusations over whether the original agreement allowed the redeveloper to redevelop seven off-site affordable units at the 129 Kinderkamack Road site, an area now encircled by fencing opposite Dunkin Donuts.
In March 2022, McCann had reported that the borough had asked nine questions of the redeveloper following a presentation they made requesting that 129 Kinderkamack Road be rezoned for seven offsite units of affordable housing.
No answers were provided to those questions, McCann said then, which were necessary and needed to help the borough understand issues surrounding 129 Kinderkamack Road's purchase for future affordable housing. It's not clear if the affordable housing zoning and construction issues will also be part of the trial judge's future ruling.
We reached out to DiPaola, borough attorney John McCann, attorney Brian Giblin and the defendantsʼ attorneys for comment for this story.
Although several residents questioned Township officials about the extra $6 million in bonding required for the long-awaited Public Safety Complex — with one resident charging citizens are not being kept informed by the town on important matters — the Council voted 4-1 at its Sept. 12 meeting to approve the extra bonding, anticipating future project costs of nearly $20 million.
“No one spoke in favor of the $6 million (bonding increase),” resident David Rice told Pascack Press on Sept. 13, referring to three residents who spoke Sept. 12 and questioned the increase.
The lone councilman opposing the $6 million in extra bonding was John Donovan. Pascack Press asked Donovan why he opposed the extra bonding.
“Iʼve been in the construction industry all of my adult life. Iʼd love to see if we couldnʼt try to cost engineer or reduce the scope of the project by 10% to 15%, to get us more in line with what we already approved on the bond side,” Donovan said.
“I know we have some fairly significant new ratables coming in over the next few years that could help to keep the impact to all of us taxpayers manageable, but the significance of the jump from $12.5 million we discussed in late 2020 to what amounts to $20 mil-
lion now, just wasnʼt sitting well with me, and so I voted the way I believed was in the best interest of the residents,” he said.
The additional bond funding was necessary due to initial project bids that came back between $15.5 million to $16 million, when initial 2021 estimates were $12.5 million for the building and $2.5 million in soft costs, such as bond downpayments, architect, planning and engineering fees.
One bid received was for $15,580,000 and a second bid received was for $16,050,000.
(See “Extra $6M bond likely needed for public safety complex,” Michael Olohan, Aug. 7, 2023, Pascack Press.)
Rice said that he and two other residents who spoke at the
bondʼs public hearing Sept. 12 asked for details about the proposed complex and why the costs had increased nearly 50% since it was first proposed two years ago. He said they were told inflation, and increases in material and labor costs.
He said one resident said he searched and searched for details on the township website to try to find out why the price had increased dramatically, from about a total of $14 million in 2021 to $20 million in 2023. He said he could not find any information.
Rice said the residents suggested that the township send an email to residents informing them of the complexʼs updated price, with details, but it was unclear if
Robert Lezette, 93, of Hillsdale, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. Born in Saugerties, N.Y and raised in Dumont, N.J.
Robert is survived by his beloved children Karen Dalton and her husband Larry, Michael and his wife Pamela and Chris and his wife Joan; his grandchildren Nicole, Daniel, Brian, Nicholas, Katelin as well as his nine great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his cherished wife Margaret of 60 years.
He was an avid golfer.
He served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Midway.
Robert retired from PSE&G as a gas service supervisor after 43 years of service in the Oradell & Hackensack locations and was a lifetime member of the Elks, charter member of the Knights of Columbus, member of the American Legion and parishioner of St. John the Baptist R.C. Church.
The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road., Westwood, on Sunday, Sept. 17 from 3 to 7 p.m.
A Mass celebrating Robertʼs life and faith will be held at St. John the Baptist R.C. Church in Hillsdale on Monday, Sept. 18th at 10 a.m.
with interment at St. Joseph Cemetery in West Milford to follow.
Memorial contributions can be made in Robertʼs name to the American Heart Association at Heart.Org/Donate. Becker-FuneralHome.com.
Kathleen J. Perry (née Kretzer), 64, of Park Ridge passed away peacefully on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. Beloved wife of the late Scott Perry for 26 years. Loving mother of Kristin Perry and Jennifer Perry, and her fiancé, Josh Abrahamson. Dear sister of Kim McAlonan, Kerry Kurtz, and Keith Kretzer. Predeceased by her parents, Robert and Doris Kretzer.
Also survived by many loving relatives and friends. She will be missed by all who knew her
Before retiring in 2021, Kathleen was a paraprofessional for more than 20 years at Park Ridge High School. She taught Body and Soul Aerobics at Montvale Evangelical Free Church for nearly 25 years. She enjoyed vacationing, attending concerts, and summer trips to LBI, and and was a loyal Mets fan.
Memorial visitation is 4 to 7
that would occur.
Rice said that residents receive emails often on recycling matters, but not on “important issues” such as bonding costs that may affect property taxes.
He noted that while the local school district is holding a referendum Nov. 7 to ask residents whether it should budget $230,000 to hire three retired officers as school security guards, the township was holding a little publicized hearing on a $6 million bond increase where three residents showed up to comment.
Costs are estimated at $20 million, where in 2021 the project was estimated at $12.5 million and $1.5 million in “soft costs” such as engineering, architectural, planning and project management expenses.
Rotella said he estimated that
FROM PAGE 33
point about the current board members is worth sharing.
I carefully watched each BOE meeting on the livestream (now discontinued) and from each, formed my opinion that a core group of board members is interfering with progress in improving our schools and maintaining the hard won excellence heretofore achieved.
the council needed at least $6 million more given recent bids for the complexʼs construction.
He previously told us that he hoped to go out with new bids by late September, receive bids back by mid-October and award the construction contract by late October or early November.
Rotella said the estimated tax impact on a homeowner for the $20 million project was approximately $300 yearly (for 30 years) on an average $592,000 home. He said bonds previously sold on the project may add $200 to an average tax bill.
He noted as more of 225 planned luxury townhomes are added to the tax rolls from Fairways at Edgewood development, the bond tax impacts on taxpayers will decline.
—Read more of the story at thepressgroup.net.
attracted more families to our awesome towns and improved our property value.
Was there dissension? Sure! Our progress was brought about by not allowing individual voices and individual needs to overshadow the basic fact that our schools are public and meant to serve all those who place their trust in public education.
I beg you to read up on the platforms of the new candidates in both towns, and see that they must be elected to restore some balance to the current board.
p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9 at Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge. rsfhi.com.
In lieu of flowers please donate in Kathlessnʼs memory to ALS Association, donate.als.org.
My family was the first class touched by the conflict over moving middle school students into the high school. I was skeptical but supportive. As the years went by, new strategies needed to be implemented to strengthen our system. It was an uphill climb and we made it because the board worked cohesively and hard, the administration worked hard, the families and community worked hard, and soon we were considered a good system which
Your vote, whether you have children in the system or not, is crucial to the health of our community. Learn more at the Westwood Community Center at the League of Women Voters BOE Candidates Night, Monday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. [See story, page 16.]
The only way to safeguard our school system is to exercise our right to vote for those who believe in public education and who are ready to work as a team rather than a faction.
Kathy OʼMelia WestwoodJoeyʼs Fund is pleased to announce that last yearʼs car show raised $13,500 in donations — total of $50,500 since 2018 for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Joeyʼs Fund annually donates $600 to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital and Make-A-Wish Foundation, and donates $300 annually to the American Red Cross.
This year Joeyʼs Fund has also donated $1,500 to Johns Hopkins All Childrenʼs Hospital of Florida.
The 9th Annual Classic Car Show will be held on Oct. 1 at Closter Plaza from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rain date Oct. 8). The show features classic cars, a DJ, door prizes and trophies for car registrants, a 50/50, over a dozen raffle items, food
trucks, vendors, and games for all.
This is an approved organization under the 501(c)(3) section of the Internal Revenue Code. All proceeds are donated to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care Center of New York, St. Jude Childrenʼs Hospital, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, American Red Cross, Ronald McDonald House of Florida, and Johns Hopkins All Childrenʼs Hospital of Florida to help families with all who have life threatening illnesses.
You can help the cause in many ways, as many have. Write donations@joeyscharityfund.org and visit joeyscharityfund.org to make a donation and learn more about this organizationʼs dedication to make a difference.
P/T Yard Attendant –Hillsdale DPW.
Department of Public Works is seeking a responsible individual to man our recycling center and assist residents with their recycling drop off.
Responsibilies include documenting visitiors, cleaning yard, emptying garbage cans, and other manual labor type tasks. Loader operating experience a plus. Pays $20 per hour. Mondays & Wednesdays 7AM-3PM. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.
PARAPROFESSIONAL AIDES AND SCHOOL LUNCH AIDES. Parttime/10-month positions. New competitive pay rate increase. Forward cover letter and current resume or district application to HR@rivervaleschools.com. River Vale Public Schools Office of the Superintendent, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. EOE.
PERMANENTAND SUBSTITUTE CROSSING GUARD POSITIONS,
H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D
PERMANENT AND SUBSTITUTE CROSSING GUARD POSITIONS, WESTOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT 101 WASHINGTON AVENUE - 201664-7000 ext. 152. You are off during the summer and all holidays during the school year. Must be able to work in all types of weather. Uniform is provided. Pay is $17.00/hour Applications available at Police Headquarters. Westwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D
Help Wanted - Twp. Of Washington DPW Seeking 2-3 PartTime/Seasonal Workers to start A.S.A.P. Up to 29 hours a week, D.L. required, must be 18 years +. Contact DPW: (201) 664-3268 or Email: DPW@twpofwashington.us
H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D
F/T Temporary Seasonal Laborer –Hillsdale DPW.
H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D Upscale car service. FORMER LIMO DRIVER avail. for Business & PROFESSIONAL people for nites out, airports, DUI, etc. Se hablo Español Call 201-384-5240.
Department of Public Works is seeking individuals to assist with maintenance & leaf collection. No experience is necessary.
Pays up to $18 per hour. Responsibilities include park maintenance, emptying garbage cans, litter removal, raking & blowing leaves and performing other manual labor duties. NJ driver’s license is required. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.
Join our ever growing sales team as a Sales Associate for the Pascack Press and Northern Valley Press. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service.
SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net
Caregivers seek position for evenings, weekends, overnight and live-in. Experienced, with references. Fully vaccinated. Call 201-823-7923.
Woman seeks job as caregiver. Please phone 347-638-7809.
