Pascack Press 1.10.22 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

Emerson • Hillsdale • Montvale • Park Ridge • River Vale • Township of Washington • Westwood • Woodcliff Lake

PA S C AC K VA L L E Y ’ S H O M E TO W N N E W S PA P E R

VOLUME 25 ISSUE 43

Celebrating 60 years

JANUARY 10, 2022

‘MAKING THIS A SPECIAL PLACE’ District lauds teachers, professionals

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

NEW TALKS ON A WT Trustees circle back to mayor after sale tanks

SWIM CLUB

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN AND JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Tom and Loretta Devine mark 60 years of wedded bliss! SEE PAGE 8

PASCACK VALLEY

SIX TOWNS

SHARE IN OPEN SPACE GRANTS Mayors laud $500,000 in matching funds

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Of nearly $19 million allocated countywide for 2021 open space and park improvement projects, six of our eight Pascack Valley towns received nearly $500,000 in matching grant funds from the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund. Receiving the funds in our area: Park Ridge, Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, River Vale, and Woodcliff Lake — which got a large infusion for its Galaxy Gardens Passive Park. Westwoodʼs borough clerk told us the municipality did not apply for an 2021 county Open Space grant. Township of Washington offi-

See TOWNS on page 254

The Pascack Valley Regional High School District has singled out a teacher and professional each from Pascack Hills and Pascack Valley high school for 2021 honors, citing their exemplary service. Above, Valley Spanish teacher Dorely Leal-Drago reacts to the news she’s Teacher of the Year. Valley Educational Services Professional of the Year is nurse Diane Fallon. For Hills: chemistry teacher James Soltmann and psychologist Brittany Punim. HATʼS A JOB

well done! Following student and colleague nominations, Pascack Regional High School District has named four outstanding adults — a teacher and educational professional from each of its two high schools — as its best of 2021. The recipients from Pascack Hills High School are chemistry teacher James Soltmann and psychologist Brittany Punim. PVRHSD PHOTO

Honored at Pascack Valley High School are Spanish teacher Dorely Leal-Drago and nurse Diane Fallon. Hills, in Montvale, serves families in Montvale and Woodcliff Lake. Valley, in Hillsdale, serves families in Hillsdale and River Vale. District interim superintendent Daniel Fish-

Continued on page 20

The township has a second chance to put an offer on the Washington Township Swim and Recreation Club, nearly 6.4 acres on Ridgewood Boulevard North, as soon as this month. Trustees of the private club evidently have been negotiating with Mayor Peter Calamariʼs administration to develop a deal for the townshipʼs purchase of the club after a bid from an unidentified summer camp organization fell apart. Thatʼs according to a confidential New Yearʼs Eve email from trustees to their fully bonded membership, forwarded to Pascack Press by several recipients. The 2021 property listing, by NAI James E. Hanson, noted the property was offered on an exclusive basis and was improved with an Olympic-sized pool, a kiddie pool, a large clubhouse, and a food concession area. The property is served by public water, sewer, electricity, and gas. The listing description said the property is zoned AA and permitted for single-family homes as of right. The description also noted nearby and prominent stores, hospitals, and schools, and added that the property was an “ideal location

See SWIM on page 224

CHANUKAH CHEERS

B ck in time...

Valley Chabad CTeens gathered for a smashing Chanukah Bash on Dec. 2, 2021, enjoying lighting the menorah, candle decorating, and traditional (and delicious) holiday foods. SEE PAGE 13

A blaze this week in 1904 ravaged the largest chair manufacturing mill in New Jersey, on the Hackensack River at the Old Tappan/River Vale border. Kristin Beuscher has the story. SEE PAGE 4

PASCACK PRESS

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Mayor urges safety amid Covid surge To the editor: R , like other P surrounding towns, has seen a very large increase in covid posARK

IDGE MUCH

itives since Dec. 1, 2021, including a jump of over 100 positives in just the last week [as of Dec. 30]. These are numbers we havenʼt seen since April 2020. The current variant of the virus appears to be

extremely contagious. The good news is that many, if not most cases, are mild/moderate especially in those that have been vaccinated. Current information suggests that those who have received a booster are best able to stave off infection. We encourage all Park Ridge residents to get vaccinated and boosted and to take extra precautions such as returning to wearing masks and limit gatherings with those outside of your immediate family and social circles. All Borough employees have returned to wearing masks while working with others regardless of vaccination status and we ask that

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anyone visiting a Borough building wear a mask before entering. I also remind you that most business can be conducted online, by email or over the phone to reduce risk to you and to our employees. No one wants to return to an all-remote situation or lockdowns so letʼs all do our part to keep that from happening. Our OEM team and department heads met over the holiday weekend to discuss contingency plans in the event that the trend of positive cases continues and to make sure that services to our residents and our water and electric In 2020: Post 162 Trustee Phil Langner, Commander Doug customers continue. Mayor Keith Misciagna Frank, Vice Commander Mike Gela, Wendy’s manager Park Ridge Antero Nuñez, and Vice Commander Joe Sgroi. for their extraordinary generosity commitment to our community is in support of veterans in 2021. exceptional. Wendyʼs of Hillsdale Restaurant General Manager also sponsors several sports teams Antero Nuñez has made it possi- in town. ble for the post to continue its Vice Commander Mike Gela efforts to help active duty personAmerican Legion Post 162 nel, veterans and their families CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 over the last few years. Their

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Church, Pascack Road: 10 a.m. in the church and 7 p.m. in the school gym. The invitation reads, “These sessions are an opportunity for people to share their view of where the Catholic Church is today and their hopes and dreams for how the Church can better serve all its parishioner is the third millenium. Small-group discussions will take place in an warm, open, non-judgmental atmosphere. A summary of the discussions will be shared with the Archdiocese of Newark and eventually, all the way to the Pope! Please consider joining us.” To register and for more information, visit urolm.org.

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LOCAL PROPS FOR SUEZ ON ITS WORK BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

After removing nearly 7,700 lead-contaminated water lines throughout Bergen and Hudson counties since 2019, Suez North America — which serves 870,000 residents in both counties — said its lab results showed the lowest lead level readings it has recorded in 30 years — since federal drinking water rules were established. Suez North America, based in Haworth, has been removing thousands of lead connecting lines in Pascack and Northern Valley towns since high levels of lead were detected in homesʼ drinking water samples in early 2019. “After a three-year, $95 million project that resulted in 7,700 lead pipes pulled from the ground in 57 municipalities across Bergen and Hudson counties, SUEZ announced today that lead levels in the drinking water in its Northern New Jersey system are at historic lows,” Suez North America said in a statement Dec. 27, 2021. Suez provides drinking water to most Pascack Valley towns covered by Pascack Press, except Park Ridge, said a Suez spokeswoman. Montvale Mayor Mike Ghassali welcomed Suezʼs efforts in town, telling Pascack Press on Jan. 2, “Suez was accommodating and coordinated with us all their work and actually finished ahead of schedule. We were in constant contact with them during the work and knew exactly how many houses were affected and where. I was happy with the service and the attention they gave to Montvale.”

In Hillsdale, Mayor John Ruocco told us Suezʼs work also went without a hitch. “Our engineer worked with them to assure that their digging could be coordinated with that of PSEG and our own road paving program. I have been receiving regular reports from them as to where they would be working each week. From my perspective and that of the business administrator, things have gone pretty much according to plan.” According to Suez, “Lab results have shown lead levels at 5.9 parts per billion (ppb), well below the state and federal action level of 15 ppb and the 18.4 ppb the system recorded in late 2018. In fact, the current results are the lowest recorded in at least the 30 years since the federal Environmental Protection Agency established rules for testing for lead in water.” Alan Weland, Suez vice president and general manager, said, “Our work is not done, however. We will continue to work until we get all the lead out of the system.” Weland thanked the county executives as well as the mayors and local officials who assisted SUEZ as its crews pulled lead pipes from the ground in towns across the region. He also thanked residents of those communities for their patience during the work. He said properties with lead services lines or goosenecks (connecting lines) comprise only a small percentage of customers. “There is no lead in the water at the treatment plant and there are no lead mains, but about 7% of our customers have lead service lines or goosenecks.”

County Executive James Tedesco III also called out Suezʼs news as welcome. (“Suez touts major reduction on lead in drinking water,” Pascack Press, Dec. 27, 2021.) Suez said it plans to spend $810 million in projects in the next five years to remove lead pipes, replace water mains, and upgrade treatment facilities. According to Suez, “Water providers across the nation are expected to make similar programs a priority now that the federal government has set the removal of lead pipes as a critical part of the recent Infrastructure and Jobs Act. Congress earmarked $55 billion for lead removal and other water quality projects.”

Park Ridge on contamination Speaking of water, In Park Ridge, which has its own water utility, all water customers were sent a notice close to yearʼs end by the state Department of Environmental Protection over water quality issues at three wells. Mayor Keith Misciagna told residents an email update on Dec. 30, 2021 the affected wells were shut off and are not in use “so residents can anticipate no negative impacts.” He said, “Our water is stringently tested and turning off the wells is not required by the EPA or NJDEP; it is a step our Water Department took out of an abundance of caution … Park Ridge is being proactive.” Park Ridgeʼs water is supplied by groundwater from 18 wells located throughout Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake, drawn from the Brunswick Aquifer. The

borough has three water storage tanks and five booster stations. In its 2021 water quality report, the boroughʼs Board of Public Works said in part, “In 2020, we analyzed over 2,500 samples to ensure that the 710 million gallons of water we pump, treat, and deliver meets water quality standards. We are pleased to report that we have met all of the federal and state drinking

water standards.” It said, “The Board of Public Works is committed to delivering a safe and reliable supply of drinking water to the 5,000 customers in Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake. This has been the consistent goal since the water utility began its operation in the 1920s.” For more information on drinking water in Park Ridge, visit the boroughʼs website.

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JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

REMOVING LEAD IN WATER

B ck in time...

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

THIS WEEK IN HISTORY:

Fire claims landmark Collignon factory

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF PASCACK PRESS

of the 1800s, the largest chair manufacturing mill in New Jersey was on the Hackensack River at the Old Tappan/River Vale border. A fire this week in 1904 wiped almost all of it off the map. On April 16, 1857, Nicholas Collignon bought property on Westwood Avenue that had been known as Stone Point, the site of a grist mill dating back to the 18th century. Here, the Collignon brothers — Nicholas, Adam, and Claudius — established a chair factory that would come to be the source of income of hundreds of Pascack Valley families. Adam Collignon designed and patented a variety of folding N THE SECOND HALF

wooden chairs, including the first folding rocking chair in the country. Many of the chairs the Collignons produced were for ocean

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liners, the British Cunard Steamship Line being one of their main accounts. They also made chairs for Ward Line, Panama Railroad Steamship Co., and the Pacific Steamship Co. This was a time before air travel; if you were crossing an ocean, you were doing so by ship. The Collignons were making a quality product and business was booming. The company expanded, enlarging the mill buildings and buying up additional land with an abundance of the black walnut, maple, and birch trees used to make the chairs. Local people found jobs felling trees, driving wagons, and working in the mills. At its peak, about 100 men were employed in different departments of the business. There were female employ-

Above: A portion of a larger poster advertising Collignon folding chair designs.

ees, too, who worked from home weaving chair seats and backs using the reeds that grew along the Hackensack Riverʼs marshland. In this remote corner of Bergen County, where jobs outside farming were scarce, a large portion of the population was reporting for work at Collignonʼs. In 1873 the firm opened an office and shipping warehouse on Canal Street in New York City. The chairs were taken by wagon to Closter, where they were shipped via the Northern Railroad as far south as Jersey City. From there, a ferry took the cargo to New York. Later the Collignons began

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING Serving Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Park Ridge, River Vale, Township of Washington, Westwood 201.664.2105 and Woodcliff Lake FAX 201.664.2109 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 335 E-MAIL US AT Westwood, N.J. 07675 pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

The Collignon Chair Manufactory on Westwood Avenue at the River Vale/Old Tappan border as it appeared in 1880. The factory buildings were destroyed in a fire on Jan. 10, 1904. Claudius Collignon’s house, visible at top center in this illustration, is the only building still standing.

shipping on the Pascack Valley railroad line out of Westwood. For better access to the rail line, they laid out the portion of Westwood Avenue between Rivervale Road and Cedar Lane. In the 1870s the Collignonsʼ business took a big hit. The market changed due to a new English law requiring that any furnishings used on British ships be manufactured in England. This resulted in a loss of business from a number of the Collignonsʼ big accounts. By 1895 the firm was forced into foreclosure. An agent of the Hackensack Water Company, which was at the time acquiring land along the river for watershed purposes, bought the property and leased it to Thomas Post, a nearby River Vale resident who had been an employee of the Collignon firm since boyhood. Post continued to manufacture steamer chairs for a few years. On the night of Jan. 10, 1904

— 118 years ago this week — the main buildings, materials, and machinery were destroyed in a

woodʼs Mayor Brickell rode out to the mill ruins to survey the scene. He said there was not

Horsepower hauls logs at the Collignon mill. rather suspicious fire. A smaller enough of the framework to kinblaze had broken out one day ear- dle a fire in the kitchen range. Today the only remnant of lier and partially burned the mill. The second fire leveled the place. the factory complex is the 1864 No work had been done in the fac- Claudius Collignon House, tory for two weeks prior, leading which is still standing opposite some to conclude that the fires Stone Point Park on Westwood had been set intentionally. West- Avenue in Old Tappan.

COLLIGNON FACTORY WORKERS, circa 1885. Here, the Collignon brothers (seated front and center on the wagon) and some of their craftsmen (plus someone’s child!) take the sun and pose for a photo at lunchtime.

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Publisher Editor Assistant Editor Art Director Director of Advertising

John J. DeFina John Snyder Kristin Beuscher Keith J. Harcher George F. Harcher

The articles and opinions printed in Pascack Press are not necessarily those of the publisher. Pascack Press is neither liable nor responsible for typographical errors. This publication contains material developed independently by Pascack Press. It may not be reproduced, in whole or in part. Pascack Press is published in Westwood and is distributed to every household in our circulation area.

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Acting Westwood Regional School District Superintendent Jill Mortimer says the district has “a clear direction from multiple groups of stakeholders” to proceed with the hiring of a Class II officer for duty at the regional high school, rounding out the current security roster, which includes an armed guard in the district. The school board, she said in Jan. 3 outreach to school families, her first of 2022, “will have … discussions as to whether to institute a Class III officer [armed] in each school as part of the budget development process that will take place over the next few months.” She told families, “Now that we are back in the swing of things, I want to update you on the Districtʼs plan for instituting a Class II police officer and eventually Class III police officers in one or more of our schools.” She said the board will vote Jan. 6 [just after our press time] on whether to pay the Township of Washington $25 per hour for a Class II police officer at the high school from January until the end

of the year. She also said that according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “a study of 67 averted school attack plots revealed in nearly one-third of the cases a police officer played a role in either reporting the plot or responding to a report made by someone else.” She added, “The research on the importance of conducting threat assessments is persuasive, and I plan to create a Threat Assessment Committee in the near future.” She described the survey results as: • 68.7% of parents agree/strongly agree with the statement, “The Westwood Regional School District should provide a Class III Special Law Enforcement Officer at each Elementary School site,” and 60% of district employees agree with the statement. “In all groups, no more than 20% disagree/strongly disagree with the statement,” Mortimer explained. The balance of each groupʼs results fell under the neutral rating, she said. On Jan. 4, the school board wrote families as well, thanking them for providing input on the survey and discussing some responses, providing graphs and

charts. The board said the feedback would be used in “setting goals, revising policy, and approving funding.” The board said: Regarding Items 2–4, responding to the statement: “The Westwood Regional School District should provide a Class III Special Law Enforcement Officer at…” • 659 parents responded and 135 employees responded. • The majority of both the parent and school employee groups strongly agree/agree with the statement for all three levels (i.e., High School/Preschool, Middle School, Elementary Schools). • In both groups and for all levels, no more than 20% disagree/strongly disagree with the statement. • The balance of each groupʼs results fell under the neutral rating. Regarding open-ended Item 5. “Please use the following space to add your school security related comments: (Optional)…” • 167 parents responded and 28 employees responded. • 90 parents and nine employees expressed interest in and/or support for Class III Officers at our schools. • 28 parents and four

employees expressed disinterest in Class III officers at our schools. Some were simply opposed and some preferred other funding priorities (e.g., counseling). • 49 parent and 15 employee comments fell in the neutral category, as they did not express being for or against having Class III officers at our schools. Rather, they made statements and asked questions about pieces of SLEO III work, other district-related issues, and other aspects of safety and security that are specific to our

district. The board said, “Again, we thank you for your time and participation. While no survey instrument or process is perfect, that would never preclude the need to gather valuable feedback. Your contributions are meaningful and important, and for that reason, we strive to create opportunities that are as inclusive as possible.” In her outreach, Mortimer said, “I realize this is an emotionCONTINUED ON PAGE 27

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Morgan, Feeney swap roles; Velez joins WT council

games, and small prizes for the winning tables. Coffee, tea and desserts available. New members are welcome. Themes for February and March will be announced at this meeting.” For more info, call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.

parking near the Pascack Road–Washington Avenue bus stop has been located. He said once the old firehouse is razed, officials will be able to determine how many commuter spots might be available. Calamari praised local volunteers for their public service on the fire and ambulance squads. He cited emergency managementʼs round-the-clock assistance provided during the heavy rains from Tropical Storm Ida, and another tropical storm soon after which deluged the township with more heavy rain. He said the restarted summer recreation program in 2021 had been able to put Bethany Community Centerʼs newly refurbished pool “to good use,” as the Washington Township Swim and Recreation Club did not open in 2021. It was also closed for the 2020 season due to Covid-19 closures and restrictions. (For more on that, see our page 1 story in this issue.) Regarding future property acquisitions, Calamari said at the Jan. 3 reorganization meeting: “We will continue to be on the lookout for properties that the town should acquire for strategic purposes including 450 Pascack Road.” Calamari also noted the police department had ordered new handguns that were expected to be in by spring, and he noted Tasers would be deployed soon. “Our officers continue to show bravery in situations they are called upon to deal with,” Calamari added. It wasnʼt part of his report, but Calamari also met with Borough of Westwood and Westwood Regional School District officials recently, and the districtʼs board was to vote Jan. 6 on whether to pay the Township of Washington $25 per hour for a Class II police officer at the high school from January until the end of the year. For more on that, see our story, page 5.

artist Brit Sikiric the new instructor of the ForeverYoung Art Class. This takes place in a fun, freestyle, and low-key atmosphere — the perfect way to unwind and create. Instruction focuses on each participantʼs unique sense of expression and interpretation of their own artistic process, through acrylic paint, watercolor, canvas and pastels, mixed media clay and more. Classes are inspired by impressionistic, traditional, and modern artists and participantsʼ own style. ForeverYoung art class runs Tuesdays from noon to 1:30 p.m. ForeverYoung participants looking for a new challenge are also encouraged to try Tai-Chi with instructor Hasmig Mekjian. Tai-chi is a Chinese martial art

incorporating slow continuous movement from one pose to the next. It is widely hailed as a beneficial way to reduce stress and anxiety and regular practice promotes better sleep and weight loss, and might improve cognition and balance and relieve symptoms of arthritis. ForeverYoung Tai-Chi classes run Tuesdays at 8 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. Free for Westwood residents; the non-resident fee is $30 per month and includes entrance to both classes. To register, adults 55+ should go to the Westwood Community Center office at 55 Jefferson Ave. any day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call (201) 6647882.

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

After new councilwoman Daisy Velez and returning incumbents Mayor Peter Calamari and councilman Tom Sears were sworn in at the Jan. 3 reorganization meeting, the council voted, 5-0, to appoint Desserie Morgan council president and Stacey Feeney council vice president. In so doing, the women, both Republicans first elected to council in 2019, switched council leadership roles. Upon her swearing in, Morgan thanked her colleagues for their support and said she would seek “all of their counsel.” Not returning: Michael DeSena, who staked his seat at the dais on a close challenge for mayor. He was the last of the Independents to serve in recent years. Taking over the meeting from Township Clerk Sue Witkowski,

MORGAN

FEENEY

Morgan added, “I just want to thank you guys. Iʼm sure we will definitely… I will be calling on you for a lot of things. So weʼll collaborate often and I appreciate your confidence in me.” The council backed Calamari picks Robert Tovo as business administrator and finance director, and veteran town attorney Kenneth Poller, for 2022. Member Steven Cascio opposed both appointments. On Nov. 15, after it was clear theyʼd won the election, Calamariʼs campaign posted, “This was a close race not only locally but statewide, it means that there are many views, many positions and many voices to

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be heard on the matters that mean most to all of us.” The campaign said “we encourage our residents to continue to raise their concerns, voice their opinions and consider volunteering to be a part of this great communityʼs growth in excellence.” It thanked “our opponents Michael DeSena, Michael Werfel, and Kevin Zitko for offering your time to this community.” Following his swearing in for a second consecutive term Jan. 3, Calamari delivered a 16-minute report to council, mentioning that the New Jersey Turnpike Authority had recently offered to install a traffic signal at the end of Exit 168. “We will research the pros and cons of placing the signal at the intersection before agreeing to it.” Calamari said he has been trying to set up a meeting between the county and township engineers to address traffic safety concerns at the nearby Van Emburgh–Washington Avenue intersection, now served by a blinking warning light. The light blinks amber for vehicles traversing Washington while it blinks red for vehicles on Van Emburgh. On Dec. 6, 2021 resident Steven Kalish said he went to the

VELEZ

CALAMARI

county to express his safety concerns over the intersection, especially with nearly 120 new housing units approved in 2021 and to soon be built nearby. Calamari reported that the Emergency Services Building rising on Washington Avenue — under fire by nearby residents for its size and scale — “continues to move ahead,” though now pushed back to an April completion estimate. He advised residents to consult the townshipʼs website and Facebook pages to keep informed on local news and events. He noted some social media presences with township logos or photos, where residents gather to discuss public affairs, are not “official sources” of information about the community. He said the former “obsolete” Department of Public Works building had been demolished and the contaminated soil underneath remediated. He said he was collaborating with an architect on plans for a new DPW building “and will be reviewing the same with the council.” He did not provide a timeline or other details. Calamari noted that so far no new location for commuter car

RIVER VALE

Seniors meet, mix Jan. 19

The River Vale Seniors are meeting in January and February. “Join us for an afternoon of friendship and fun on Wednesday, Jan. 19, 12:30 p.m., at the River Vale Senior Center. The theme is Getting Acquainted. There will be

ForeverYoung yoga, art, and tai chi

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Westwood Recreation is enrolling adults 55 and up for its ForeverYoung yoga, art and taichi classes starting in January. Certified yoga instructor Tori Karach leads ForeverYoung participants, beginners to advanced, in a 60-minute class designed to increase overall flexibility, assist in improving balance and posture, boost mood, increase muscle tone and ease aches and pains. The winter session runs Thursdays from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. at the Westwood Community Center. The ForeverYoung yoga class is free for Westwood residents 55 and up; itʼs $20 per month for non-residents. Adults 55+ are also invited to take an “Artistic Journey” with

‘Optimistic’ Hoffman leaves with mayor’s, council’s thanks EMERSON

Council President Kenneth Hoffman was honored with a plaque at the Dec. 28, 2021 sine die meeting, a token of thanks for his many years of service to Emerson. Hoffman, a Republican, fielded words of praise from his mayor, fellow council members, and a resident active in Democratic politics. Mayor Danielle DiPaola said, “Tonight we bid farewell to our council president who has served this borough honorably, both as a council member and a volunteer over the last two decades. Kenʼs impact has been seen in many areas throughout town. His attention to detail and thoroughness will be difficult to replace.” Hoffman said he had run for council three years ago with DiPaola and councilman Brian Gordon to achieve change, including getting meetings videotaped and on television, which increased government transparency. He said residents have said they appreciated it. He said it was “a testament” to council members that “we are not a rubber-stamp government … We disagree respectfully, we work together, yet we still will have our difference of opinions and that proves that we are not making decisions behind the scenes but doing what we feel is best for the town.”

HOFFMAN

DIPAOLA

He lauded councilmembers for “speaking their minds as they see fit.” He also thanked borough employees and volunteers for their contributions — singling out Borough Clerk Jane Dietsche “for all her hard work.” He saved his last thanks for “the people of Emerson, for giving me the opportunity to serve again.” In 2018, when he was running for his latest term — heʼd already served two terms, 2005–2010 — he said his employment was as clerk at Stop & Shop. Hoffman, citing health reasons, withdrew from his re-election bid in 2021. He is a lifelong resident of the borough, and is widely respected for his calm manner on the dais, his commitment to “The Family Town,” and his ranging curiosity. Borough administrator Robert G. Hermansen commended Hoffman for his “thoroughness” during Hermansenʼs two-plus years that he has served as administrator. “It made my job much easier… most of the things I had a question on I could refer to you.” Members thanked Hoffman

for his friendship, dedication, and collegiality. And DiPaola said Hoffman was essential to good council relations. “Itʼs a credit to Ken and this council that everybody was able to work together and have the relationships that we did. We did have our disagreements on issues but as a whole we always worked together and the last 10 minutes were just so beautiful to me — hearing all of these words for Ken — that I think you know you would always be welcome back here and always welcome as a volunteer should you so choose,” she said. Indicating borough business in progress, she advised, “Iʼll be calling you probably on Thursday or Friday.” During the meetingʼs public comment period, Democrat Kate Stutzel, who tried for a council seat in 2021, congratulated Hoffman on 20 years of public service and his “unparalleled” attention to detail. She said she wished him well and said she was grateful that he “took the time” to help the public understand ordinances being introduced and up for adoption. She suggested “one of the reigning council members” continue Hoffmanʼs role of requiring ordinances be fully explained. None seemed to volunteer. “Ken Hoffman, youʼve done the Borough of Emerson proud,” DiPaola said, as the meeting ended, as she and the council lauded Hoffman. In 2018, Hoffman, a graduate

of the College of William and Mary, and a former Historic Preservation Commission member, told Pascack Press he was running “because I believe itʼs time for a new approach in Emerson.” He dinged the previous, Democratic, administration as having made decisions “which havenʼt benefitted our town or its residents. He sounded off on management of the $4.4 million Kinderkamack Road Improvement Project. (Which, we should add, was a first-place recipient in the New Jersey Society of Municipal Engineers Municipal Management category for towns of less than 20,000 residents.) And he said “thereʼs nothing to show for the downtown redevelopment efforts but a lawsuit from two property owners that has cost the taxpayers over $100,000.” Hoffman said he was “confident that we can move Emerson into the future without sacrificing the small-town character that makes this such a great place to

live. We can do that by working cooperatively with downtown property owners, instead of the bullying tactic of eminent domain, which has only resulted in further stagnation and avoidable legal fees.” And he said, “We can pursue sensible development without the four-story high rises that will only bring more vehicles to our already overburdened roads.” Hoffman said at the time, “Iʼm also happy to be running with two candidates who share my optimism for a better Emerson: council candidate Brian Gordon and mayoral candidate Danielle DiPaola. If elected, weʼll work together to make the changes that our community needs, but in a responsible way that takes into account all potential costs. We wonʼt be purchasing property for nearly a million dollars without a plan, as the present administration has done.” — With John Snyder

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EMERSON

The Borough Council emerged from a closed executive session on Dec. 28, 2021 and unanimously approved one resolution related to affordable housing and another related to property deeded to the Emerson Station redevelopment. Resolution 269-21, moved by

Kenneth Hoffman and seconded by Jill McGuire, was approved, 6-0, authorizing Mayor Danielle DiPaola to “sign the deed to DIPAOLA vacate Kenneth Avenue” and provide that property to Accurate Builders, a subsidiary of JMF Properties, which is han-

dling construction of Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewalʼs Emerson Station. A 45-page redevelopment agreement, approved several years ago, outlines the boroughʼs partnerʼs obligations, starting with acquiring nine parcels from six property owners, now complete. The firm aims to overhaul the western side of the countyʼs Kinderkamack Road between Linwood Avenue and Lincoln Boule-

vard and NJ Transitʼs Pascack Valley Line. The approved mixed-use proposal includes a multi-story, 147unit luxury rental complex with 15,000 square feet of ground-level retail space. It includes 29 affordable units, 22 to be built onsite and seven elsewhere in town, and a parking garage. Kenneth Avenue originally ran behind all of the business/residential properties on Kinderkamack Road that comprise the Block 419 area of the project.

It also accessed the former Emerson Volunteer Ambulance Corps (EVAC) headquarters, at 1 Kenneth Ave., and a commuter lot. The road has been closed since demolition work began in 2019 on a redevelopment project stalled by legal delays and recent contamination found at a former dry cleaner site. In October 2021, after EVAC said its temporary accommodations at a borough-owned CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

PASCACK VALLEY

Tom and Loretta Devine enjoy 60th

Congratulations to Tom and Loretta Devine, who recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. After moving to this country from Ireland — Tom from Donegal and Loretta from Leitrim — they married on Sept.

16, 1961. They raised their eight children — Loretta, Bernadette, Tom, Liam, Mary-Ellen, John, Michael, Colleen — in Paramus. Today they are proud grandparents to 21 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Tom and Loretta Devine in 1961 and below in 2021.

TOWNSHIP LANDS GRANTS OF $176K IN ’21, Dec. 3, listing 20 “new grant opportunities” that the consultant has applied for since Jan. 1, 2021. An update on a $150,500 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant for public assistance with impacts from August 2020ʼs Tropical Storm Isaias lists the grant, noting “Additional reimbursement documentation submitted and preliminarily approved.” The FEMA grant application, filed Jan. 8, 2021 by GLD Associates, hope to reimburse the township $140,000 for debris removal; $5,500 for police work (overtime only); and $5,000 for library roof damage and repairs. “As with all FEMA grants, this is a very tedious process with

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The townshipʼs grant consultant reported generating approximately $176,000 in grants for calendar year 2021 according to a quarterly report submitted in December. However, grants totaling almost $200,000 have been submitted or are pending before federal, state, and foundation grantors for possible funding in 2022, notes the report. David Biunno, senior consultant with GLD Associates Inc. of Summit, submitted a six-page report to Township Council on

Letters: FROM PAGE 2

Ruocco on council’s restrictions To the editor: S B Itheaddress on Jan. 4, I challenged Hillsdale Council to be more N MY

TATE OF THE

OROUGH

transparent with the residents, and to tolerate dissent without trying to hide information from the mayor or control his communication to the residents. Council members who fear criticism and operate in the shadows to avoid it are acting irresponsibly and undemocratically. This all fell on deaf ears. Over my and councilman Horváthʼs objections, the council proceeded to adopt changes to the governing bodyʼs bylaws initiated by council members Lundy and Escobar that attempt to restrict the flow of information to the mayor,

exclude him from committee deliberations, and dictate how he should run the meeting. They would deny the mayor the rights and privileges afforded all borough mayors across the state. Itʼs an effort to keep the public in the dark and exert a chilling effect on the mayor to keep him from expressing contrary viewpoints on the governing body. Clearly, certain council members canʼt handle opposing views. The changes removed the mayor as an ex-officio member from all the councilʼs “standing” committees. Shamelessly, these changes wouldnʼt even allow the mayor—the legally designated head of the municipality and the highest elected official in Hillsdale—to attend, be informed of, or receive material that he used to receive from these committees. Neither can he step in to replace a committee member in a meeting where a member does not show up, until all other council members are offered that option. The mayor is relegated to the back of the bus! But hampering the information flow to the mayor apparently

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extensive documentation required for reimbursement,” said the GLD Associates report. The report, a public record, notes it expects the grant process to be done in 45 days, and a check issued. The report noted GLD was submitting documentation for sidewalk repairs and the number of hours worked by volunteer firefighters, plus use of their vehicles and equipment responding to the natural disaster. The report notes that though volunteer firefighters “by definition [are] not paid,” FEMA will reimburse the township at a rate of $28.82 per hour per firefighter. Hourly rates for use of department trucks and equipment will also be compensated, states the

was not enough. The revised bylaws presume to usurp the mayorʼs prerogative as the legally designated presider over all council meetings to determine how to conduct the “last go-round” speaking session at the end of each meeting. Considering that Hillsdale has a form of government that is called “weak mayor, strong council” and that existing state law places strict limits on what a borough mayor can do, the efforts of the council majority to further restrict the mayor can only be viewed as a tyranny of the majority. All these restrictions are intended to hand-tie the mayor from performing what other mayors around the state routinely do. During the meeting, council members tried selling the changes to anyone who would listen as a good thing for the town and the mayor. It was like trying to sell

report. A second grant “awarded” for $25,586 to the township was from Bergen County CARES Act Municipal Reimbursement Grant Program. The reimbursement funds from FEMA cover additional expenses incurred that were caused by Covid-19. The township received 100% reimbursement of available grant funds, said the report. The report lists 18 additional grant opportunities, some in progress, some under review, some submitted, and some filed and pending a decision. Some grants listed as submitted or submitted and pending include:

bologna as filet mignon. The proposed bylaws appear to be punishment for a mayor who has spoken up on behalf of transparency and professional management within the permissible boundaries of the law when he sensed things going wrong. Why would some council members vote for

• $15,000 NJ Dept. of Community Affairs Recreational Opportunities for Individuals With Disabilities grant. • $14,567 Firehouse Subs Foundation grant to purchase new vehicle extrication tools; • U.S. Department of Justice Body Worn Camera Grant for cloud evidence storage ($2,000 per officer for forces with 100 officers or less); • $125,748 NJ State Library Construction Bond matching grant; and • $15,705 Assistance To FIrefighters Covid-19 Emergency Funding Grant to purchase washing equipment for PPE and turnout gear. such reckless changes that evidence insecurity and defensiveness, when council members themselves already control by statute virtually all the levers of power in the borough? Mayor John J. Ruocco Hillsdale CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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LIBRARY CALENDAR: PROGRAMS THIS WEEK

EMERSON 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org • This week Emerson Library offers a Fox Needlepoint Craft for grades K–6. The library provides the yarn, plastic needle, and preprinted plastic canvas for kids to embroider their own cute fox. Craft is available as grab-and-go (pick up Jan. 10 and complete at home) or as an in-person event Monday, Jan. 10 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Whichever option you choose, be sure to preregister on the libraryʼs website. Open to Emerson residents only. • Parents, this class is for you and your little ones—just follow along! Baby & Me, for age 2 and under, meets Tuesdays in January at 11 a.m. Introduces songs, dance and fingerplays with stuffed animals and rhymes. Register for each date you plan to attend. • There will be an in-person Preschool Craft & Storytime on Wednesday, Jan. 12 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. The children will craft a paper snowman globe and hear a story. Emerson residents only.

Registration is required for each child. • Miss Danielle will offer a session of Little Bookworms (yoga and storytime) for 6 and under on Thursday, Jan. 13 from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Learn silly yoga poses, enjoy a read-aloud story, and melt a snowman. Registration required for each child. • Little ones are invited to Move, Learn & Grow with Miss Shelley of Every Little Thing Yoga. In this class for ages 2–5, children sing, move their bodies, read stories, and learn about different topics at each class—from colors and animals to feelings and seasons. Meets Friday, Jan. 14, 10:30–11 a.m. Register online. HILLSDALE 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org • Note: The library has canceled all in-person programming the month of January. • Zumba via Zoom is Thursday, Jan. 13 at 4:30 p.m. Janet

Weller, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, leads a dance-based workout. Register for Zoom link.

MONTVALE 12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org • Artist Peri will host a virtual Kids Art Class on Monday, Jan. 10 at 4 p.m. With step-by-step instructions kids will create a personal work of art. Best for age 6 and older. Registration is required. • Miss Jolie Music is on Zoom Wednesday, Jan. 12 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Little ones are invited for a Winter Wiggles party on Zoom. There will be singing, dancing, and rhymes all about winter. Best for toddlers through kindergarten. Miss Jolie will have a live Zoom performance every week in January; register for one or all via the libraryʼs website. • Strength Training for Seniors, a virtual program, increases flexibility, strength, and endurance using easy-to-follow

movements. Via Zoom, Thursdays at 1 p.m. Visit the libraryʼs website to register for as many sessions as you want. • Ready to get your paperwork pile sorted? Join author and organizing humorist Jamie Novak as she shares her one-step system for organizing paperwork. If you are ready to file instead of pile, this is the program for you! “One-Step Paperwork for 2022” is virtual, via Zoom, Thursday, Jan. 13 from 7 to 8 p.m. Sign up online.

kids through a fun craft at home. You must call the library the Monday–Thursday before the craft to reserve your craft kit and it must be picked up that day. All ages. • Virtual Book It! Club with Miss Eileen meets live on the libraryʼs Facebook page Saturdays from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Stories, science, and more geared towards kids in primary grades.

RIVER VALE 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org • There is an Adult Take and Make craft for Monday, Jan. 10. Stop by the library for the supplies you need to create a folded book tree. No registration required. Crafts are first come, first served. • At the Tween and Teen Craft session on Monday, Jan. 10 from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m., River Vale residents in grades 4–8 are

PARK RIDGE 51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org • Join Miss Renee for Storytime every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 10 a.m. in the First Friends room (across the hall from the library). Ideal for toddlers and preschool age but open to all. Registration required. • Virtual Take-and-Make Crafts with Miss Renee is every Friday at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook page. Miss Renee walks

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

PASCACK VALLEY

Pouring on the POWER: Helping Hand nets $15,000 donation

Well, this is just plain cool. Helping Hand Food Pantry, based in Hillsdale, will receive a $15,000 donation this month, thanks to consulting firm POWER Engineers Inc. (POWER). According to Helping Hand Food Pantry chair Jody WinsickSoluri, the funds will be put to work serving those in need in the Pascack Valley Area. She told Pascack Press on Jan. 5 that corporate and private donations, fundraisers, food drives, and grants are what have kept the non-profit pantry in business for almost 30 years. “What started out as an organized food drive for an Eagle Scout project grew into a food pantry that services eight towns in the Pascack Valley Area. Weʼre so grateful to be able to serve more than 1,200 of our neighbors every month,” she said. POWER, an engineering, environmental and technology consulting firm headquartered in Hailey, Idaho and with its nearest office in Oradell, said in a state-

work. POWER has three offices in New Jersey. Typically, POWER holds large company gatherings each winter to celebrate the anniversary of how the companyʼs first employees, their families, and the local community pulled together to help restart the firm after a disastrous office fire in 1977. Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the parties were canceled this year, and POWER leadership determined that the best use of that budget would be to give back. “Since we wonʼt be sitting down together for a meal, weʼre going to give meals to others,” Jim Haynes, POWERʼs president and WINSICK-SOLURI

Helping Hand Food Pantry trustee Lois Kohan directs turkey drive volunteers in 2020. John Snyder photo. ment on Jan. 5 that it plans to donate approximately $500,000 to food banks and other organizations across the United States and Canada, each in one of the more than 55 communities where POWER employees live and

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neighbors every month, including senior citizens, the disabled, active military members, and military veterans. Its annual turkey drive brings together volunteers from across the valley to help families in need at Thanksgiving and Christmas. For more information, visit Helping Hand Food Pantry at HelpingHandFoodPantry.com or write to the pantry via email, at TheHelpingHandFoodPantry@gmail .com. POWER Engineers notes itʼs a global consulting engineering and environmental firm specializing in integrated solutions for clients in the energy, renewables, food and beverage, government, agribusiness, and oil and gas industries. Founded in 1976, it is an employee-owned company with 45 offices and more than 2,800 employees across North America. For more information, visit powereng.com. — John Snyder

CEO, said in the statement. “Itʼs a silver lining, being able to turn a disappointment into something good for our communities.” Haynes said this is the companyʼs largest philanthropic effort to date, though itʼs far from the only one — the firm regularly donates thousands of dollars a year to STEAM education through its foundation. Haynes said The POWER Foundation donated more than $150,000 in 2020 to 45 local schools to meet pandemic-related needs such as remote learning equipment and mental health support for students. Helping Hand Food Pantry is a nonprofit charitable organization that serves the citizens of Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Oradell, River Vale, Washington Township, Westwood and Woodcliff Lake. It is entirely staffed by dedicated volunteers and relies on private donations, grocery stores, fundraisers, food drives and grants to serve those in need. It serves approximately 1,250

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Montvale seniors revel in the holidays

The Montvale Senior Club celebrated its annual holiday party

at Seasons Catering, in the Township of Washington, on Thursday,

Dec. 15, 2021. Weʼre told it was a gala affair

of dancing, singing and reminiscing to myriad musical tunes by DJ Nick at Night. The club honored outgoing members of the executive board, with flowers and good wishes. Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali was guest speaker. The club says, “It was a mem-

orable occasion bringing good cheer and enjoying our fellow members who survived a difficult year with the pandemic. We welcome the New Year of 2022 to be a healthy and prosperous one. May the world have peace and good will.”

From left to right: Hospitality, Phyllis Nichols; Recording Secretary, Ruth Birdsall; Corresponding Secretary, Milli Stellatos; Treasurer, Don Widmayer; Executive Secretary, Diane Carfora; First Vice President, John Rotante; President, Marie Dineen.

NJ Choral Society seeks singers

In honor of its 40th anniversary season, the New Jersey Choral Society (NJCS) invites new singers and alumni with choral experience and strong sight-reading skills to join the passion, excellence and imagination of this musical community. Become a member and experience the joy of singing beautiful choral repertoire under the direction of artistic director Lauren Fowler-Calisto. Auditions for all voice parts will be held at Temple Israel, 475 Grove St., Ridgewood on Tuesday, Jan. 11 at 6:30 p.m. After

this date, auditions will be scheduled by appointment only. Prospective members are required to perform a selection of their choice, as well as sing a brief sight reading exercise and simple folk song, which will be provided to them. In addition, auditionees will be asked to perform some vocal exercises designed to determine vocal range and voice quality. NJCS is an ensemble of singers joined by their commitment to performing concerts of the highest artistic quality and enhancing the appreciation and

enjoyment of choral music among members and audiences alike. NJCS performs in Bergen and Essex counties. The musical journey of NJCSʼ 40th anniversary season will feature a Pops Spectacular titled “British Invasion” in March and a Masterworks concert in June featuring Requiem by John Rutter and The Promise of Living by Aaron Copland. If you are interested in auditioning, contact NJCS in one of the following ways: leave a message at (201) 273-9027 or fill out the form “requesting an audition” at njcs.org.

The Montvale Senior Club, which includes current and former residents who are at least 55, said thanks for the great work to outgoing president Marie Proto Dineen and welcome to new president John Rotante. Above, both are flanked by Mayor Michael Ghassali.

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Three from Pascack Valley named 5th District Hometown Heroes

PASCACK VALLEY

U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) honored local first responders, veterans, students, life-saving bystanders, volunteers, community leaders, and residents during the Fifth District Hometown Heroes Ceremony, held Dec. 20, 2021 at the Fair Lawn Community Center. Gottheimer presented Fifth District Hometown Heroes Awards to more than 30 Fifth District residents in recognition of their dedication to helping improve the lives of their neighbors, families, and communities. Among them were Jon Najarian of Hillsdale, Rose Curry, Montvale, and Lisa Bontemps of Westwood. “We are lucky to have so many unsung heroes in our communities, whose quiet service

goes on every day without the recognition they truly deserve. They give back just because they care. Today is their day,” said Gottheimer. He added, “If you pick up the paper, there is far more attention being placed on what's going wrong with America, and far too little attention on whatʼs going right. But then, stories crop up here and there about someone saving a life, or a neighbor opening up a food pantry or raising money for charity or making their town a better place and you realize that we just donʼt spend enough time showcasing all of the good that happens every day.” Gottheimer said, “Thatʼs why, with Hometown Heroes, we take the time to highlight those from North Jersey — from Bergen, Sus-

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Members of the Senior Fellowship are reminded to attend the groupʼs Tuesday, Jan. 11 meeting, 11:30 a.m. Itʼs a pizza luncheon, and guests are welcome. The group

meets at the Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. During the year the group enjoys luncheons, trips, and special events. For more information, call Judy at (201) 664-3614.

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sex, Passaic, and Warren Counties — who are hard wired to help others. ” Hometown Heroes are nominated by leaders across the community — including elected officials and faith leaders — as well as by friends, family members, and loved ones who believe that they truly deserve the title. “These individuals come from all walks of life, but all share an idea that is particularly special: they embody our Jersey Values and make our community such a special place to live, work, and raise a family. They help us build that more perfect union of our dreams. We all should work to live up to their example,” Gottheimer said. Local recipients, according to Gottheimerʼs announcement: Jon Najarian Hillsdale For more than 25 years, Najarian has volunteered for the Hillsdale Fire Department, his working to way up chief. He serves as deputy coordinator for the Hillsdale Office NAJARIAN of Emergency Management and throughout the pandemic worked tirelessly securing PPE to keep first responders safe, looking after Jerseyʼs senior citizens, and enacting programs to better dis-

seminate vital information during the crisis — all while coordinating with federal and state agencies.

Rose Curry Montvale Before her passing, Jan. 1, Curry had served Montvale and North Jersey for decades, as Montvale PTO President and VP, working in Broadway and regional productions, directing area high school musiCURRY cals, volunteering with the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Tri-Boro Food Pantry, and Meals on Wheels, and most recently as councilwoman for the last decade. After her years of dedication and work with the Montvale Public Library, as of last month, the library now bears the honorary name of Rose S. Curry. See Obituaries, page 30. Lisa Bontemps Westwood When the Covid-19 pandemic began, Bontemps organized a new fresh food distribution center out of her church, that has since grown to serve more than 300 hot meals every Tuesday, along with fresh BONTEMPS fruits, vegeta-

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bles, breads, and other non-perishables. This program began with no budget, but from her desire to help her community, it is now helping hundreds of members of the community facing food insecurity. She has also led efforts to improve Westwood AARP. Other recipients: Matthew Malejko, Allamuchy, Warren County; Joyce Gonzalez, Allendale; Jimmy Winters, Closter; Pat Zengel, Glen Rock; Mike Rose, Green Township, Sussex County; Rosalyn Holland, Hackensack; Bob Kneer, Fair Lawn; Bonnie Borghi, Haworth; Paula Marsh, Lodi; Joe MacDiarmid, New Milford; Julie Krcmaric, Norwood; Bill Sanders, River Edge; Silvia Kerslake, Norwood; Vinod Chadha, Old Tappan; Joe Zbierski, Midland Park; Muhammad Haque, Paramus; Moish Tov, Ridgewood; Matt Tiedemann, Waldwick; Virgil Rome, Fredon, Sussex County; Andrew Esposito and David Wells, Maywood; Tony Cerbo III, Branchville, Sussex County; Justine Van Blarcom, Vernon, Sussex County; Joe Hession, Mountain Lakes, Sussex County; Eddie Mindlin, Franklin Borough, Sussex County; Abby Casario, Hampton, Sussex County; Jim McKim, Hardwick; Marcia Bradley, Stillwater; Joe DʼAnnibale, Newton, Sussex County; Suzi Marr, Washington Borough, Sussex County; Sean Valle, Bergenfield; Elizabeth Llorente, Oakland. — Staff report

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Dining & Cooking Guide

Valley Chabad CTeens gathered for a smashing Chanukah Bash on Dec. 2, 2021, enjoying lighting the menorah, candle decorating, and delicious Chanukah food. A highlight of the evening: the grand JText raffle. Throughout the year Valley Chabad teens receive a twice weekly Jewish trivia text

called “JText” to supplement their Jewish education, which connects them with peers and makes for a great deal of fun. In addition to enjoying the grand raffle, the teens took time to think about others and packed winter gear for those in need. Valley Chabad says, “JText has

become a continental initiative since its launch about four years ago, now being shared by Chabad centers from Contra Costa, Calif., to Calgary, Canada, through local CTeen and Chabad on Campus chapters. Its goal is to educate teens on the religious, historical and cultural

aspects of Judaism in an age-appropriate and entertaining way.” The Valley Chabad Teen Leadership Initiative is a popular group that gathers regularly for social and community service-oriented activities for Jewish teens in the Pascack Valley and Saddle River towns. The programs are open to all

Jewish teens regardless of affiliation. To learn more or to have your teens volunteer visit valleychabadteens.com or email rabbiyosef@valleychabad.org. To join JText Trivia, text CHABAD to (201) 267-2217. — Photos via Valley Chabad

Liam Irizarry of Woodcliff Lake lights the menorah.

Rabbi Yosef Orenstein with Shae Madmon of River Vale, winner of snazzy new AirPods Pro.

Joseph Feiler of Woodcliff Lake, Olivia Ferri of Allendale, Ilana Schulman of Upper Saddle River, and Payton Leiberman of Upper Saddle River.

PASCACK VALLEY

Breakfast with the mayors Jan. 26

The mayors of all 10 towns in the Greater Pascack Valley are invited to present their annual town updates over breakfast in Westwood, and youʼre invited. The breakfast meeting and presentation are open to the public, including members of the press, local residents, and businesses. Breakfast with the Greater Pascack Valley Mayors is sponsored by the Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce. The event is Wednesday, Jan. 26 at 8 a.m. at the Iron Horse Restaurant in Westwood. During the presentation, each mayor or their representative (from north to south: Montvale, Park Ridge, Woodcliff Lake, River Vale, Old Tappan, Hillsdale, Washington Township, Westwood, Emerson, and Oradell) will answer questions submitted by Chamber members, including on such hot-button issues as new development and the growing animal population. Tickets are $25 for Chamber members and $30 for anyone else wishing to attend. A buffet breakfast

will be served. The event is expected to be well-attended, so reserving a seat ahead of time is suggested. Tickets may be purchased online or by contacting at (201) 666-0777 or Robin Malley GPVCOC@gmail.com. If space allows, tickets can be also purchased at the door. Visit pascackchamber.org/eventdetails/breakfast-with-the-mayors. The Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce (GPVCOC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization of business organizations and professionals working together to enhance our community. The organization says, “Together, we can foster an environment that leads to increased growth in our businesses and neighborhoods. As concerned individuals working together at the GPVCOC, we can foster a vital and responsive chamber of commerce, which results in a better return for business, professional and industrial development.”

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JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

DEMAREST

AHA Middle School open house Jan. 30

Itʼs your turn to experience the Academy of the Holy Angelsʼ exceptional world of exploration. Visit the Sunday, Jan. 30, AHA Middle School Open House from 2 to 4 p.m. If you will be entering Grade 6 in the fall, you and a family member are invited to learn more about how you can get the all-girl

advantage in AHAʼs growth mindset environment. Youʼll hear presentations from President Melinda Hanlon, Dean Traci Koval, middle school faculty members, and the AHA Admissions Team. Angel Ambassadors will lead tours of the campus and answer your questions about what life is really like at AHA. Refreshments will be

available, and the school store will be open. Visit AHAʼs website today. There are also a few seats for students in grades 7 and 8. Registration is required. Visit holyangels.org/admissions/visit-aha now, and get Catholic Schools Week off to a great start! Call (201) 7687822 or visit holyangels.org.

DEMAREST

AHA Middle School standouts

The Academy of the Holy Angels Middle School, which opened in September, has released its first Deanʼs List and Honor Roll. Traci Koval, dean of AHA Middle School, explained that students are recognized based on their overall grade point average. No honoree may have any grade below an 85 on her report card. In order to make the Honor Roll, a student must post a GPA of 90 to 94. The Deanʼs List is reserved for students with GPAs of 95 or higher. Students who were named to the Honor Roll include sixth graders Ava Cifelli, Erin Dempsey, Valentina Mendoza,

and Hailey Smith, and eighth graders Valentina Poire and Cyia Sabathia. Named to the Deanʼs List: • Grade 6: Chloe Burkards, Sophia Garzon, Hannah George, Lizbeth George, Hannah Kim, Kaci Li, Cristyn Lindsay, Kaelyn Malig, Ella Menapace, Reina Mercado, Caroline Nam, Andrea Valente, and Chloe Zaladonis. • Grade 7: Emma Chang, Rebecca Cho, Anabella de Leon, Emily Kho, Evangeline Koo, Cailleigh Kraus, Madelyn Krol, Lavender Lee, Mona Lee, Eleanor Lim, Lila Lobosco, Daniella Luzzi, Kayleigh McGee, Allison Riccio, Alexa Saracino, Angela Seo, and Jane Yu.

• Grade 8: Corrine Adamo, Alessandra Cardamone, Margarita Curado, Lyla Dove, Sophia Emmi, Eliana Melone, Isabelle Meyer, Alyssa Petrowski, Lilyanna Potts, Miesha Sehgal, Angela Shaker, Gemma Siciliano, Makayla Yee, Kaitlyn Zheng, and Leyla Ziemba. Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼ school in Bergen County. While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this prestigious school serves young women from many backgrounds. For more information call (201) 768-7822 or visit holyangels.org.

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

AHA’s friendly faces will greet your family Jan. 30.

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Blume shines at Colgate

Harrison Blume, a member of the Colgate University Class of 2022, has earned the spring 2021 Deanʼs Award with Distinction. Blume is a biochemistry major from Woodcliff Lake and is a graduate of Pascack Hills High School. Students who receive a term grade point average of 3.6 or higher while completing at least three courses during the spring 2021

semester earn the Dean's Award with Distinction. Colgate is a leading American university for students who want classes with rigor, faculty with passion, and confidence in knowing they will learn how to thrive in work and life. Colgate offers 56 majors and supports 25 Division I athletic teams on a campus of about 3,000 students in central New York.

BY LAURA SPAETH FOR PASCACK PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

OODCLIFF LAKE native filmmaker Jon Doscher and his company, Starline Films, hosted and cosponsored a private event integrated with one of their new film projects, “Cowboys At The Castle,” on Dec. 4, 2021 in Ridgewood. The event honored four iconic Pascack Hills coaches “for their commitment to enhancing the lives of young men and women for decades”: Bucky Rehain (wrestling and football), Bob Burke (football), Sal Lauro (soccer), and Rich Santoli (WCL wrestling). Doscher, class of ʼ89, played football and basketball and said he finds the coachesʼ legacy a continuing inspiration. Rehain coached the Garden Stateʼs top-ranked team in 1977

Cowboy wrestler and legendary WCL wrestling coach Rich Santoli.

and 1978. Over his illustrious career Pascack Hills produced 12 state champion wrestlers, more than any other public school over the last 60 years. Rehain also was defensive coordinator for the Cowboysʼ

2nd Annual Cowboys Classic, honoring iconic coaches Bucky Rehain (wrestling/football), Bob Burke (football), Sal Lauro (soccer), and Rich Santoli (WCL wrestling).

Jon Doscher, Starline Films.

championship football team in 1968. His defense, “Rehainʼs Wreckers,” were barely ever scored upon. Head coach Bob Burke, a special guest on Saturday, was joined by star players from that 1968 championship football team — led by Joe Bird, also a state wrestling champion runner-up. (The reduced standing owing to referee error). Bird was selected Athlete of the Week in 1970. A highlight of the night was the celebration of the 1979 State Championship Football Cowboys, led by their head coach, Bill Lally. Several Cowboy teammates were in attendance, including Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna. Lallyʼs son Jeff is known for placing 5th, at 145 pounds, in the State Wrestling Finals in 1988. Jeff was a two-time State Champion pitcher and centerfielder on the 1987 and 1988 baseball teams. Lally celebrated with his former teammate, the great Billy Kanwisher. Kanwisher was the

All business: Paul Montalbano and coach Bob Burke.

Glory days: Sal Lauro, Bob Burke and Bucky Rehain.

ace All-State pitcher in the late ʼ80s and won two State Championships while being selected to the All-Decade and All-Century teams of Bergen County. Kanwisher went on to pitch in the College World Series for the Oklahoma State Cowboys, 1990 and 1993. Other high profile athletes in attendance were Chris Petrillo, a Third Team All-State center halfback who played soccer for coach Sal Lauro. Lauro won a 1985 soccer state championship. Tim Muller was one of the most dominant basketball players in the county, winning a championship in 1987. He went on to play at Villanova for four seasons, making it to the NCAA Final Four. Dozens of Cowboy greats were joined by wrestling coach extraordinaire Rich Santoli. Santoli created a wrestling “farm system” in Woodcliff Lake, grooming several star wrestlers including Matt Grossman, a First Team AllCounty and Region champ, who holds the school record for quickest pin, at 6 seconds, with his famous “Gunsmoke” move. Other region champs on hand were Joe Barnum, Tom Pepe, Jim

ning backs Mike Feulner and Gregg Silcher of the 1980s. Then thereʼs Paul DʼErrico, arguably the greatest shooter in Cowboy hoops history, now boys varsity head hoops coach at Hills. The event was partly the basis for Doscherʼs documentary film that heʼs shooting. The film will include interviews with Tom Husted, a lead member of the 1977 All-Century Wrestling Team. Husted is a two-time State Champion and three-time Athlete of the Week selection. Doscher and Starline Films also have been developing a feature film, “Anyoneʼs Son” scheduled for production in fall. This dramatic feature is based on the true story of Harry De La Roche Jr. and the tragedy of his family in 1976. Doscher and his former part-

Remember the time... Joe Bird and Paul Gravalis. Freeman, and Paul Gravalis. Gravalis also took third at the State Finals and was a leader on the football field for the 1979 Cowboy Champions. This annual event attracts Cowboy alumni such as star run-

ner, the late Danny Aiello, produced the documentary version of the story: “Harry: A Communication Breakdown,” which is available for viewing at jondoschCONTINUED ON PAGE 27

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

HILLS SPORTS LEGENDS ASSEMBLE FOR COWBOYS AT THE CASTLE

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

DR. KAPLAN: Take control of your brain health! Ask me how!

There are different types and causes of traumatic brain injuries. Falls are the leading cause of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in all age groups, not DR. ERIC KAPLAN, just in the senior KAPLAN BRAIN & c o m m u n i t y , BODY although those 75 or older have the highest percent (79%) of having a hospitalization or death. The next two causes of TBIs are car accidents and sports injuries. We even see a lot of people who have had head injuries from shockwaves in battlefields, bullets hitting the head, and unfortunately, domestic violence. TBIs can result in losing consciousness, forgetfulness, temporary amnesia, confusion, visual disturbances, headaches, dizziness, light and sound sensitivity, trouble with focus, memory loss, trouble with walking, trouble with talking, and many more problems. Many researchers have concluded that if the head injury is more severe, it can even lead to neurological disorders such as Alzheimerʼs disease.

Alzheimerʼs disease is one of the fastest growing health conditions. Many people have linked Alzheimerʼs disease to traumatic brain injuries, but there are also many studies showing if there was just one very mild TBI, it may not lead to a neurological problem later on in life. One of the problems with researching Alzheimerʼs disease is that scientists have to rely on the autopsy at death to really determine Alzheiemerʼs effects on the brain. They look for tau proteins and amyloid plaques. These tau proteins form abnormally and cling to other tau proteins to form “tau tangles” inside the brain cells. Tau tangles and beta-amyloid plaques are large accumulations of microscopic brain protein fragments that slow a personʼs ability to think and remember. These are very apparent in Alzheimerʼs disease. Since it is hard to determine whether these proteins and plaques are present before an autopsy is done, it is important to address other factors that may contribute to Alzheimerʼs disease. One of the most researched topics in Alzheimer's disease is traumatic brain injuries. Although the research with mild

traumatic brain injuries has been inconclusive, if there is a major head injury with loss of consciousness, especially if it lasts more than five minutes, the outcomes have the potential to be really bad. Also if you have had multiple head injuries that result in what is called CTE, your chances greatly increase as well. In football or hockey for example, the playerʼs heads are hit over and over again. Although the risk of brain dysfunction or dementia is highest after the first year of a head injury, research has shown damage can be sustained more than 30 years later. In a recent study, the risk of a dementia diagnosis was seen to be increased by about 80% during a mean follow-up period of 15 years for individuals diagnosed with TBI. The study also found that the risk of being diagnosed with dementia in the first year after TBI was four to six times higher when compared with individuals with no TBI. Afterward, this risk declined rapidly. The development of dementia, with impaired executive function, an increased risk of falling, and reduced cognitive function, was significantly associated and observed more than 30

Train to volunteer teaching ESL in ’22

PASCACK VALLEY

Make a difference in your community: volunteer to teach English as a Second Language! Since 1982, Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley has been training volunteers to teach English to adults in their community. This remote workshop is run by a certified trainer and the program is an accredited member of the national organization Proliteracy. Upon completion of the workshop, LVPV will match the

volunteer with an appropriate student. This workshop is open to residents of Allendale, Cresskill, Dumont, Emerson, Hillsdale, Mahwah, Montvale, Paramus, Park Ridge, Ramsey, River Vale and Westwood. For now, all tutoring is remote via Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp or phone. The workshop will cover the use of these technologies.

Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley is pleased to announce the next online foursession Tutor Training Workshop on Jan. 11, 18, and 25, and Feb. 1, 2022 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Volunteers must be 18 or older. To register, write coordinator Marilyn Katz at literacyvolunteerspv@gmail.com or visit literacyvolunteerspv.org/tutor-training-workshop-form.html.

years after TBI. What this means is that your history can dictate your future. If you have had any type of head injury, whether it is from playing sports, a car accident, or a slip and fall, it is super important to get your brain analyzed now to figure out what areas are most damaged and are not functioning at optimal levels. Therefore, you can improve your brain function now and prevent problems such as dementia, Alzheimerʼs or even Parkinsonʼs disease in the future. Many people who complain of brain fog, trouble with focus, low energy, headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances, poor memory, decreased motivation, depression, or anxiety, do not realize that their neurological problems may be related to an accident or head injury. Huge discounts on testing in January! The best way to determine this is to do a complete one-hour neurological evaluation, which includes a VNG to measure each area of the brain to see how it is functioning and what areas need the most help. This is normally $400 at my Emerson office, but if you respond by the end of January, you can receive the entire test for $97. The next best test is called a qEEG which is a noninvasive test that measures your brain waves to determine any damaged areas. This test is also normally $400 and now you can receive this test for $97 as well. To top it off, for the first seven people that sign up, you can get both tests (which would normally cost a total of $800) for $150 if you mention this article and schedule your twohour appointment before the end of January. Act now! Always remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Letters: FROM PAGE 9

Faith, hope, community in concert To the editor: : “ʻA V B R Christmasʼ with Ciarán Sheehan Dec. 21,” Pascack Press, E

ERY

ROADWAY

Dec. 13, 2021: Our Very Broadway Christmas concert was truly a spectacular celebration of Christmas, joy, faith, hope, and community. We are very grateful to Ciarán, Sue, Gabriel and Heather for a beautiful evening, but every

Do not wait until your symptoms get worse and worse and the damage is harder to reverse. The time is now. Take control of your brain health and find out what areas are not working well. Once we get to the root cause of your brain issues, then it is much easier to determine the best way to improve your function and prevent future problems. All of my solutions are holistic, do not have any side effects, and are risk free. The typical medical root for a head injury is rest, but I have found that rest actually prolongs the recovery period. The best way to deal with TBIs is to get the proper diagnosis and then we can determine which neurological exercises are most appropriate for you or your family member. Sometimes it may be eye exercises, sometimes it may be postural therapies, sometimes it might be breathing exercises, sometimes it may be balance exercises, or sometimes it may be memory or focus exercises. There are all types of neurological exercises that can be done to improve your brain function so you do not have problems in school, in work, or as you get older. The key is to take action now and not let the brain get worse. Remember, if you function better, you will feel better, and you will live better. Letʼs work together to improve your quality of life and your mood. Call (201) 261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to set up your initial evaluation. Looking forward to helping you live the happiest and healthiest life possible. Kaplan Brain & Body is at 85 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 100, Emerson. Visit kaplandc.com. This is advertiser content. Consult your doctor for medical advice if you have any health concerns and before starting any new treatments.

one of us present was an essential part of that “spectacular.” And, when a community continues to talk until this day — with pride and joyful spirit — about an event which took place some time ago, as it is in the case of the Saint Johnʼs “Very Broadway Christmas,” then one knows that what we had witnessed was not only spectacular but also life-giving. Sincerely, Msgr. Peter Smutelovic, pastor, Saint John the Baptist, Hillsdale Editorʼs note: The Parish of Saint John the Baptist welcomed all to a timely concert on Dec. 21, “A Very Broadway Christmas” featuring Ciarán Sheehan, the famed opera singer and musician originally from Dublin, Ireland.

Your turn! We welcome signed letters on timely local topics. See Page 2 for guidelines — and sound off!

Dear Savvy Senior, Can you decipher the different types of housing options available to seniors, and recommend some BY JIM MILLER good resources for locating them? I need to find a place for my elderly mother and could use some help. — Overwhelmed Daughter

Dear Overwhelmed, Thereʼs a wide array of housing options available to seniors, but whatʼs appropriate for your mom will depend on her needs and financial situation. Hereʼs a rundown of the different levels of senior housing and some resources to help you choose one:

• Independent living: If your mom is in relatively good health and self-sufficient, “independent living communities” are a top option that can offer a sense of community. Typically available to people over 55, this type of senior housing is usually apartments or town homes that are fully functional. In addition, many communities also offer amenities such as meals served in a common dining area, housekeeping, transportation and a variety of social activities. To locate this type of housing, contact your Area Agency on Aging (call 800-677-1116 to get your local number), or use an online search tool like Caring.com. Most of these communities are private pay only and can vary greatly in cost ranging $1,500 to $6,000 per month. • Assisted living: If your mom needs some help with daily

living chores, sheʼll probably need an “assisted living facility.” These facilities provide help with the activities of daily living – like bathing, dressing, eating, going to the bathroom – as needed, as well as meals, housekeeping, transportation, social activities and medication management. Many facilities also offer special “memory care units” for residents with dementia. Costs for assisted living usually run $3,000 to $6,000 per month depending on location and services needed. Most residents pay for assisted living from personal funds, while some have long-term care insurance policies. And many state Medicaid programs today also cover some assisted living costs for financially eligible residents. A similar but less expensive option to look into is “board and care homes.” These offer many of the same services as assisted living facilities but in a much smaller home setting. Your Area Aging Agency is again a good resource for finding assisted living facilities and board care homes, as is Caring.com. • Nursing homes: If your mom needs ongoing medical and personal care or has very limited mobility, a nursing home, which provides 24-hour skilled nursing care is the next option. To find a good one, use Medicareʼs nursing home compare tool at Medicare.gov/care-compare. This tool will not only help you locate nursing homes in your area, it also provides a 5-star rating system on recent health inspections, staffing, quality of care, and overall rating. Be aware that nursing home care is very expensive, costing $4,500 to $13,000 per month for a

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semi-private room depending on where you live. Most residents pay from either personal funds, a long-term care insurance policy or through Medicaid after their savings are depleted.

• Continuing-care retirement communities (CCRCs): If your mom has the financial resources, a “CCRC” is another option that provides all levels of housing (independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing home care) in one convenient

location. But these communities typically require a hefty entrance fee that can range $20,000 to $500,000 or more, plus ongoing monthly service fees that vary from around $2,000 to more than $4,000. To search for CCRCs visit Caring.com.

Need Help? If youʼre not sure what your mom needs, consider hiring an aging life care expert (AgingLifeCare.org) who can assess your mom and find her

appropriate housing for a fee – usually between $300 and $800. Or you can use a senior care advising service like A Place for Mom (APlaceForMom.com) for free. They get paid from the senior living facilities in their network. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

PARK RIDGE

2022-23 kindergarten registration dates

Park Ridge children who will be 5 years old by Oct. 1, 2022 will be eligible for full-day kindergarten registration for the 2022-2023 school year. Children living west of Pascack Road will attend West Ridge Elementary School. Children living on or east of Pascack Road will attend East Brook School. Kindergarten orientation will be held on Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022 as follows: East Brook – 6 p.m. and West Ridge – 6:30 p.m. Kindergarten orientation is for parents only.

Kindergarten registration will be held Monday, Feb. 7, through Friday, Feb. 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at both schools. Access the online portion of at registration parkridgeschools.org/domain/17 starting on Friday, Feb. 4. You can access and print the following required forms, which you will need to bring into the school during registration hours: • New student medical forms; • New student home language form; and

• New student owner/landlord affidavit form. The following documents are also required when you register your child for kindergarten: • Original and a copy of your childʼs birth certificate; • Proofs of residential identification; and • Most recent immunization history from pediatrician. If you need assistance, call Mrs. Syring at East Brook School at (201) 573-6000 ext. 2000 or Ms. McCarthy at West Ridge at (201) 573-6000 ext. 3000.

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

THE SAVVY SENIOR: Decipher Senior Housing Options

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

5 WAYS TO HELP PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM FRAUD

From listening to music to ordering groceries, almost all aspects of our daily lives are connected to the Internet ERIC KOHLMEIER in some way. Nearly a third of Americans say theyʼre “almost constantly” online, with 81% using the Internet at least once a day. But our always-connected nature can come with risks: The FBIʼs Internet Crime Complaint

Center averages more than 900 complaints a day; the center recorded $2.71 billion in victim losses in 2019.? Here are some ways you can help protect your family online. 1. Learn to spot imposter scams. Have you ever received a call, text, or email purporting to be from your credit card provider regarding suspicious activity detected on your account? It could be a scammer trying to convince you to share sensitive information that would enable them to access your accounts. Increasingly, these criminals

may be able to spoof caller ID or an email address so it appears they are legitimate. When in doubt, do not respond. Instead, alert your provider about the suspicious communication. Learn more about how to spot common scams at.wellsfargo.com/scams. 2. Manage and monitor your credit. If your data has been compromised through a security breach, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file with the three major credit bureaus. Visit consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0014-identity-theft for more

information on identity theft prevention tips and resources you can share with your family. Make a habit of reviewing credit reports for you and your child at least once a year. Look for unauthorized accounts that may have been opened in your names. More than 1 million children were victims of identity fraud in 2017, according to one study from banking industry research firm Javelin Strategy & Research.? 3. Limit what you share on social media. Thieves scour social media profiles for clues to security questions, passwords, and other information that could help them impersonate potential victims online. First, set your profiles to private—and encourage your family members to do the same. Also, restrict your social media contacts to people you know personally. Finally, watch what information you disclose. Revealing too much personal information in your social profiles can put you at greater risk of identity theft, especially if your bank or other companies use that information to verify your identity. 4. Protect your home network. Create a strong password for your wireless network in your home. Consider using a unique phrase with a mix of letters and numbers. Avoid using any part of your email address or information shared on social media, like the name of your pet, favorite movie, or anything else someone could easily guess. When you are con-

figuring your router, the Department of Homeland Security recommends choosing the Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) setting, which is the strongest encryption option.? 5. Stay up to date. Cybercriminals change their tactics frequently, so families should stay on top of the latest threats. Be sure to work with Wells Fargo Advisors and other financial providers to understand ways to protect yourself as you conduct financial business online. Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice. Be sure to consult with your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax consequences. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state. This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director–Investments in Park Ridge at (201) 5050472. Investments in securities and insurance products are not FDIC-insured/not bank-guaranteed and may lose value. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered brokerdealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2017–2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Special: Head of the class for ’21 at Hills, Valley bein congratulated this yearʼs recipients “for all of their continued efforts to make our school a special place.” Reporting from Hills Trailblazer news editor Briana Keenan, and a statement from Valley, including student testimonials, show why these are excellent choices. Pascack Press extends its congratulations. FROM PAGE 1

James Soltmann ʻBask in who you areʼ The Hills Trailblazer explains that Soltmann has been teaching at Hills for 15 years. He studied at Rutgers and UConn, where he took his degree in physics and education. He said he started his career as an engineer and switched gears to teaching, to follow his dream. To help him along he picked up certification as a chemistry teacher. “It was when I started teaching AP Chemistry about 16 years ago that I really started to appreciate it and regard myself as a chemistry teacher,” Soltmann told the Trailblazer. He said his first teaching job was not at Hills but rather at a district where, he suggested, science education was not widely regarded as a priority. His time at Hills, he said, “renewed my love of teaching and reignited my passion.” Soltmann also coaches the

Nurse Diane Fallon, tops in 2021, is a PVHS favorite.

boys soccer team at Hills. The Trailblazer reported, “Hills completely changed the game for him. He describes the district as ʻtruly specialʼ and that ʻteaching such demanding courses for such great kids made me want to be better all the time.ʼ” Soltmann said his own children have attended Hills — and taken his classes. His daughter Jackie, a Hills senior, told the outlet, “One of my favorite parts of being at Hills is the fact that I get to be with my dad and be in his class. I love hearing his students talk about him; Iʼve heard so many kids say how fun his class can be and how nice he is.” She added, “When I had him my sophomore year for chemistry,

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James Soltmann, Hills teacher of the year, with his daughter.

PVRHSD Director of Curriculum Barry Bachenheimer, Director of Special Services Eva Merk, Hills Principal Timothy Wieland, Hills psychologist — and 2021 Hills Educational Services Professional of the Year — Brittany Punim, I really got to see what an amazing Assistant Principal Charleen Schwartzman, and Interim Superintendent Daniel teacher he is.” Fishbein. (Courtesy photos.) Soltmann shared his reflecShe told the Trailblazer, and to be part of their successes, tions on his career at Hills with the Trailblazer, and said his favorite “I feel extremely blessed and for- whether big or small.” Punim said her favorite memmemory is of winning State Sec- tunate to work in such a wonderful district. I would not be the clini- ory of her time thus far at Hills is tionals against Ramsey in 2015. “What made this truly spe- cian I am today without the sup- when former students come back cial,” he said, “was the way the stu- port of the entire faculty, supervi- to visit her. “No words can express how much this means to me, and dent body supported us. It was sors, and administration.” She said she was drawn to a every student knows that I will inspiring and made me love the career in psychology specifically always be there to support them school even more.” even after they graduate from He said his aim at Hills is to to support student wellness. “I was able to see firsthand Hills.” make sure the students know “to The Trailblazer also quoted enjoy [themselves] but also take how psychological intervention advantage of all that this school, can impact a student who may be students who said their lives were and staff, have to offer. As you start struggling academically and/or much improved by their knowing coming into yourself, donʼt sell with their emotional well-being,” Punim. For her own part, she said, yourself short as a student — or as she said. Punim said her workday con- “While Iʼm only a mom of one, at a person.” He added, “Be yourself, bask sists of “communication with par- Hills Iʼm a mom of 42.” The district recognized Valley in who you are.” And he quoted ents, meeting with students, guidShakespeare — Polonius from ing staff members, and promoting Spanish teacher Dorely Leal“Hamlet” — “This above all: to a safe office environment for stu- Drago and nurse Diane Fallon: thine own self be true. [And it must dents to share their concerns.” The Trailblazer reported Dorely Leal-Drago follow, as the night the day, Thou ʻShe is a pleasure...ʼ canst not then be false to any Punimʼs favorite part of working at Hills is “the connections made The district said “Dorely has a man.]” between the people there.” heart of gold. She goes out of her She said, “I love the relation- way to help our students and parBrittany Punim ships I have built with each of my ents; she is understanding, flexible, ʻI feel extremely blessedʼ The Trailblazer, also profiled students, and the best part about and extremely supportive of their Hills psychologist Brittany Punim, being a psychologist here is cele- needs.” She also provides translation who earned Educational Services brating my studentsʼ accomplishments and sharing their joy.” services for IEP (individualized Professional of the Year. Indeed, she said, “Nothing education program) meetings — Punim studied at Binghamton University and has been at Hills for makes me more proud than to see and when the school needs to conthe growth my students have made tact parents who speak Spanish. 71⁄ 2 years. “She will take diligent notes to ensure she is relaying accurate details, and she offers her assistance to parents then after to ensure that students are meeting with success,” said the district. Moreover, Leal-Drago “is a kind soul who beams with enthusiasm and compassion! She is a pleasure to work with!”

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Diane Fallon ʻNothing short of amazingʼ Diane Fallon has been an outstanding person to lead Valley through the pandemic, the district said. “Her patience and understanding in handling everything that has been thrown at her has been nothing short of amazing.” One nominee — and there were many — said, “She has so much on her plate with Covid and keeping the students safe and handles it with grace. She has a lot to do every day and it is overlooked. I feel she should get recognized.” — Pascack Press

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Adult swim: The board of trustees of the troubled Washington Township Swim and Recreation Club, on nearly 6.4 acres on Ridgewood Boulevard North, snubbed the township’s $1 million offer in 2021 but now is back at the negotiating table with local officials after its plans with another bidder fell apart. The club has been closed for two years and needs work.

FROM PAGE 1

for single family, townhouses, 55plus living or assisted living.” It is zoned neither for townhouses nor senior living congregate homes, and does not lie within the townʼs affordable housing overlay zone. If the town takes over as owner/operator as a public good, presumably it would form a public utility board to oversee it, and borrow for the purchase and any essential repairs. The listing noted the property was assessed at $1,382,600 and paid annual property taxes of approximately $34,357. In June the township bid $1 million — $600,000 for the property and $400,000 for improvements and renovations — but bondholders snubbed the offer. The purchase was proposed to cost taxpayers about $18 per year for the bondʼs 20-year payback period, though those figures were challenged. In its New Yearʼs Eve letter to bondholders, the clubʼs elected board of trustees spoke of the dealʼs collapse and hopes for next steps. “In the past five months we have encountered an arduous negotiation process, due to Covid practices in place and the sorting of the buyers contingencies. Our Realtor and lawyer met the moment and when we finally were ready to sign the contract, the buyers encountered an unexpected stumbling block,” the club said. “This halted proceedings and we in turn spoke with our mayor once again about the prospect of the possible township purchase. The very close election in November only meant more time passed. We are now moving forward along with our lawyer and are prepared and hopeful for a resolution from the mayor and new council in Jan-

uary,” it added. The clubʼs leadership said, “We will update membership with additional details in the coming weeks. The board wishes you all a very happy and healthy 2022!” We reached out to Calamari, township attorney Kenneth Poller, the council president, and club trustees for comment. No one replied by press time. At the Township Councilʼs Jan. 3 reorganization meeting, Calamari said, “We will continue to be on the lookout for properties that the town should acquire for strategic purposes, including 450 Pascack Road” [a small, mostly wooded residential tract with improvements, adjacent to Memorial Field and Washington School]. The club, established in 1963, is owned by its members, who pay for a share of the pool. Each share was listed at $725, which can be paid all at once or over a five-year period. Sources who made the confidential email available to Pascack Press requested anonymity, in part because they werenʼt authorized to do so and in part because some said they are owed long overdue bond refunds that a deal would facilitate. In September 2019, club copresident Loretta DeTitta told Pascack Press, in our coverage of the

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boardʼs financial troubles and familiesʼ growing frustration over stalled bond repayments, “Weʼre this tiny business. Itʼs seasonal. Weʼre struggling and need additional income, membership, whatever; itʼs really not that much. Itʼs not, in the grand scheme of things. But here we are.” She said, “When new members join, it says in the bylaws, those monies will be repaid. Or ʻwhen monies are readily available.ʼ We have no money.” She said, “We need a white knight or a queen, a white queen. That would be great.” DeTitta added at the time, “Something needs to happen. Weʼll either fold—and that means sell it to a developer, I guess—or maybe the town can assist us. That would be the two things that would happen,” she said. She added that the board had reached out to possible donors in town, but because the club isnʼt a charity any such donations would not be tax deductible. Then covid struck, and the pool has been closed ever since. In July 2021, after we were told a vote had taken place that favored a summer camp outfit over the townshipʼs stewardship, DeTitta told us, “The process at the moment is still private and confidential.” (See “Town pool purchase sunk? Calamari fights back for land buy as a moon shot,” Pascack Press, June 24, 2021.) This Jan. 1, after learning the sale had fallen through and leaders were in new talks with the township, one bonded member who sent us a copy of the trusteesʼ email and is not privy to the talks wondered what deals were being cut without taxpayersʼ knowledge. Others wondered if the bidding process had been reopened to

Photo: wtswimclub.com

other bidders. Yet other residents privy to the email wondered if the township was offering a price similar to its $1 million offer made in June 2021 that was ultimately rejected by swim club bond holders in favor of an undisclosed offer evidently made by a competitor. In Pascack Press online reader conversation on an early version of this story, residents expressed strong concern over transparency — and interest in getting made whole. Samples: • “Needs to be sold and bonds given back. This is getting old.” • “Iʼve been trying to get my money back for at least 10 years. If this gets sold, how does one get the bond money back?” • “I have emailed many times and I have never gotten my bond money back.”

Debate, disappointment In July 2021, then-councilman Michael DeSena, challenging for mayor as an Independent, told Pascack Press that of 72 bonded members eligible to vote, 49 weighed in, with 35 voting to sell to the summer camp, 13 to sell to the township, and one voting to sell to Superdome Sports — whose CEO told Pascack Press he didnʼt realize they were in contention. Voting members we spoke with at the time said they were unimpressed with Calamariʼs vision for the property. The mayor said on June 24, 2021 that the town was agreeing to a two-year effort to operate it and if that operation cannot break even at that point it likely would close. Many of those calling in to town meetings in support of the purchase said how much they looked forward to a pool. Calamari, a Republican, said in his appeals for council support of $1 million for the property that

the land could serve a variety of needs. He posted amid the bond resolution debate, “The first use I would like to research is leaving it as a swim club. All the infrastructure is in place for it. I would like to review the numbers the existing club has to see the expenses and then estimate how much income it will need to generate.” He emphasized the resolution on negotiating for the property “does not bind the town to anything yet. The town and the property owners decided to agree on a purchase price before further negotiations regarding the terms of the sale.” At a subsequent meeting, DeSena pressed Calamari for the origin of the $850,000 figure. Eventually Calamari said, “It was a negotiated number.” DeSena initially withheld a yes vote for the larger sum on the grounds that the administration had not undertaken a feasibility study for taking over the pool. After proponents rallied for the deal, DeSena voted yes. After the club rejected the townʼs offer, Calamari posted his sentiments on his mayorʼs Facebook page. “Obviously I, and I am sure a great majority of residents will share in my disappointment by this decision. The offer the town made was exactly what the [club] board asked for,” he said. He added, “I am, however, proud and grateful for the level of enthusiasm and motivation shown by the public in contacting the elected officials to express their opinions.” He asserted “It also bears mentioning that I was informed a deciding factor in their choice was the underwhelming interest and enthusiasm and apparent lack of commitment shown by some council members during the councilʼs vote to acquire the property and make a good faith effort to make a town pool viable.” That characterization drew a sharp denial and rebuke from DeSena, who later walked back some of his reaction against Calamari. DeSena is off the council. Re-elected with Calamari was Tom Sears, affirmed after he filled in for the late Arthur Cumming. With them on the dais arrives Daisy Velez, the townʼs public affairs director.

PASCACK VALLEY

house on Locust Avenue, at the rec center, and at the DMF were insufficient, DiPaola and Borough Administrator Robert Hermansen said the borough would see to improvements. Currently, rigs are being housed at the DPW headquarters, although no lockers are on site for personnel — and neither were showers nor cots provided, corps members said. They worried the conditions were harming membership efforts. In exchange for the deed, the redeveloper was to provide $500,000 in construction services to the borough for an ambulance building elsewhere. But due to the developerʼs requirement that the borough provide a design for the facility by the end of 2019 — a deadline the borough did not meet — the developer has refused to provide the payment. The matter is being contested in Superior Court in Hackensack, with the borough and developer blaming each other for the dispute. Meanwhile, new facilities for the ambulance corps are being added to design plans for an improved and expanded Borough Hall, where improvements for the police and court functions also are long overdue. The resolutions signed Dec. 28 do not resolve any pending legal action, DiPaola told Pascack Press on Jan. 4. Emerson Station has been the focus of multiple lawsuits, with

FROM PAGE 8

EMERSON

S ENIORS MEET J AN . 13

The Emerson Senior Citizens have their January membership meeting on Thursday, Jan. 13 at noon at the clubhouse, 20 Palisade Ave. There will be a program and speaker provided by Bergen County. Refreshments will be served. Annual dues will be collected at this meeting: $12 per member (no increase). There also is a food collection drive for Emerson residents under way: please bring a bag of essential groceries. For membership information in Emerson Senior Citizens, call (201) 655-3586.

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the developer suing the borough, asserting obstruction and racial animus and the borough claiming the developer has presented no evidence to back its charges and only wants to delay the project — possibly to reduce the retail component originally promised. In late October 2021, construction code official Richard Silvia told the council that the project had been halted after the finding of perchlorethylene, a common toxic cleaning agent, in soil beneath the former Ranch Cleaners, at 190 Kinderkamack Road. Public testimony in 2019 from a resident had suggested that the site might be contaminated but the developer claimed then that it was clean. In late November and December, demolition work on that site appeared to resume. Calls

by Pascack Press to Silviaʼs office to update the projectʼs status were not returned and it was unclear whether soil remediation was required or not. In October, Silvia said the licensed site remediation professional (LSRP) for Emerson Station found the soil contamination and turned the results over to DEP. The LSRP is responsible for managing site environmental testing and any cleanup required by DEP. Working with DEP, the LSRP must determine how to remedy any existing soil contamination to meet DEP standards. At the Oct. 19 meeting, DiPaola wondered why soil testing at the dry cleaner site had occurred only recently. Silvia noted he had told prior construction superintendents to do environmental testing there but

that no action had been taken. As a councilwoman and mayoral candidate, DiPaola argued against the scope of the redevelopment project and the process by which it came to be. She has since been named in legal action, along with the borough, filed by the Emerson Station redeveloper. Resolution 268-21, also

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signed Jan. 3, created an affordable housing subcommittee for 2022, composed of councilmembers Jill McGuire and Michael Timmerman, affordable housing attorney Brian Giblin of Giblin & Gannaio of Oradell, borough planner Caroline Reiter of Statile Associates of Oakland, and DiPaola.

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JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

REAL ESTATE Council: Signs deed to Kenneth Ave to its partner

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

cials did not reply to our request for information. The townshipʼs grant consultant did not list an application for a county Open Space grant in its year-end summary report. The $18,984,482 in county Open Space grants was appropriated in a Dec. 15, 2021 resolution approved by county commissioners, formerly the Board of Chosen Freeholders. The Trust Fund program is funded through a rate of 1 cent per $100 of total county equalized real property valuation annually, as approved by the public in 2013. The county administers these funds with a match program where the non-profit or municipality is not reimbursed until after the project is completed. The projects completed by this program “preserve Bergen Countyʼs natural beauty and makes open spaces more accessible for all the residents of Bergen County.” In total, 57 of 70 Bergen County towns and the Land Conservancy of New Jersey received county Open Space funding grants.

FROM PAGE 1

Park Ridge North Fifth Street land In Park Ridge, the $92,500 land acquisition grant will be used to acquire 1.366 acres, or 60,383 square feet, off of North Fifth Street. Borough Clerk Maggie Giandomenico said the grant funds would be used, “in order to purchase the land located on North Fifth Street, which if attained, would forever remain as open space for passive recreation.” She said, “This will allow for the ever-growing demand [for] recreational space for residents and visitors of the borough. The majority of the current recreational spaces, both passive and active, are located on Park Avenue and can often be overcrowded, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic, as many people shift to outdoor activities for increased safety.” She added that the land on North Fifth Street is not developed and is to be designated specifically for passive recreation. Emerson Benkovic Field lighting, with MuscoVision camera tech Emerson received $77,340 for Benkovic Field lighting and cameras, part of the Hillman-Villano field complex. The project cost was estimated at $230,200. Emerson originally was going to contribute $115,100. It was unclear what the reduced funding would mean for the project. The new Benkovic Field lighting was anticipated to be equipped with MuscoVision camera technology to record sports games so footage may be

reviewed by teams or coaches, or publicly broadcast, said the grant proposal. A one-month installation timetable is planned, May–June. MuscoVision will allow the borough to livestream games, and includes a camera behind home plate and in the outfield. Interested viewers “who want to watch can pay per day, per week or per month,” with 70% of revenues due back to the borough. The recreational fields are coowned by Emerson and the local board of education. It was unclear what the reduced funding would mean for the planned field upgrades, which initially included possible artificial turfing of both fields in 2023. That was not included in the 2021 Open Space grant proposal.

Hillsdale Beechwood Park improvements Hillsdale received $56,250 for Beechwood Park improvements, including the playground, pathways, and seating areas. Mayor John Ruocco told us on Jan. 3 the grant will cover

improvements for playgrounds, pathways, seating, and bandshell repairs/enhancements. “I am obviously very pleased that the county could provide us with this grant. Beechwood Park has great potential for more intensive and frequent use, such as for concerts, presentations, picnics, and borough festivals.”

Montvale Huff Park playground improvements In Montvale, proposed Huff Park playground improvements received $77,340 for surfacing and landscaping, according to the county resolution. Mayor Michael Ghassali told us, “The grant is to upgrade the playground stage at Huff Park and add additional toddler games and make it safer for the kids to play at the park. Iʼm grateful that we were awarded this grant and we are looking to apply for more grants for additional projects in town.” River Vale Pickleball court

In River Vale, a pickleball court construction project received $77,340. The work was called for under long-range action as part of the townshipʼs 2020 Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP), adopted Dec. 9, 2020, which finds good uses for New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Green Acres Program funds and Bergen County Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, Farmland & Historic Preservation Trust Fund. The OSRP says in part, “The Township strives to provide a variety of recreation options to all members of its community. The Township recognizes that the present open space and recreation system is sufficient at this time.” Woodcliff Lake Galaxy Gardens Passive Park

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Woodcliff Lake was awarded $110,157 for its long-anticipated Galaxy Gardens Passive Park, now an empty lot at the corner of Woodcliff Avenue and Werimus Road. The county resolution listing the grant notes “new passive park, gazebo, lighting” as grant outcomes. The borough plans to advertise soon for a landscape architect to help design the park, which only recently finished remediation of toxic soil left by uses as a garden center and gas station. The 2.25-acre park was purchased by the borough in early 2018 for $1.65 million despite some residentsʼ soil contamination concerns. A prior county grant for nearly $500,000 was contingent upon soil cleanup certification from the boroughʼs licensed site remediation professional.

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Riverkeeper lands Governor’s Award on enviro excellence

People and organizations that protect New Jerseyʼs environment through sustainable practices, education and partnerships are among the eight winners of 2021 Governorʼs Environmental Excellence Awards and the prestigious Richard J. Sullivan Award, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette announced Dec. 20. This yearʼs honorees are recognized for their commitment to enhance New Jersey environmental protection practices by mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, improving living conditions and providing training for people in environmentally vulnerable communities, adjusting

preservation goals to help local farmers, and building partnerships to promote land conservation. “We are lucky to have so many forward-thinking organizations that work every day to ensure future generations will have a healthy environment to enjoy with their families,” Commissioner LaTourette said. “I am thrilled to honor the winners of this yearʼs Governorʼs Environmental Excellence Awards and the Sullivan Award for their continued dedication to create a stronger, fairer New Jersey through outstanding environmental leadership.” The 2021 awards were presented virtually and video is available on the DEP website and

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is a founding member of Waterkeeper Alliance, the international coalition of more than 300 clean water advocates working on, along and for waterways across the globe. Capt. Bill is the Northeast regional representative on the Waterkeeper Council, one of the Allianceʼs governing boards. He is often called upon to mentor rookie Waterkeepers, which he very much enjoys. Hackensack Riverkeeper this fall bestowed singular honors on three Bergen Countybased companies at the groupʼs annual gala Oct. 12 at the Estate at Florentine Gardens, “here in the upper Hackensack River Watershed community.” Hackensack Riverkeeper told Pascack Press in a statement that the honorees were singled out for their support of Hackensack Riverkeeper in the aftermath of the fire on May 16, 2020 that devastated the Riverkeeper offices, at 231 Main St,. Hackensack. The theme of the gala — Our Bright Future — was chosen because, thanks to the honorees, Hackensack Riverkeeper will soon relocate into a newer, larger building at 206 Main St. — one block from 231.

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al topic; therefore, my letter to you presents only an overview, some preliminary data, and a timeline of events. This is my recommendation to the board based upon the activities and consultations that have transpired over the past few months.” She pointed out that the district already employs a safety and security specialist, “and that individual is armed. There is no plan to eliminate that position, as each district is required to have an employee serving in that role.” She said, “A Class III officer could not hold that title.” Moreover, she said, “We are fortunate to have police officers from both municipalities who already walk through our schools on a daily basis. The addition of officers will enable us to extend our existing security efforts, not necessarily start new ones.”

FROM PAGE 5

The K-12 district consists of its regional high school and Washington and Jessie F. George elementary schools in the township, and its regional middle school and Berkeley and Brookside elementary schools in Westwood.

Itʼs about relationships The Class II officer, Mortimer said Jan. 3, will be encouraged to make relationships with students and have a presence in the high school. “I want to make it very clear that the officer will only act in his/her official capacity if a crime has been committed. There will be no unreasonable searches of students, and the high schoolʼs administration will continue to be the lead on all disciplinary issues,” Mortimer said. She added, “We will benefit from the officerʼs ability to provide an immediate, live-feed of

any emergency we may be having over the police radio.” She said when she took over for Ray González in August, she had a “get to know you” meeting with district police chiefs Richard Skinner of the Township of Washington and Pontillo of the Borough of Westwood. Mortimer said the agenda included general security issues and that all agreed on instituting Class III police officers “in the near future.” At that meeting, Mortimer said, the chiefs explained the differences between School Resource Officers, Class III Officers, and Class II Officers: • School Resource Officer: a full-time police officer with salary and health benefits. • Class III Officer: a retired office under 65 who undergoes the same hiring process as a regular police officer. The individual has

full police powers and full retirement health benefits, and represents a cost-effective way to provide an experienced officer for about one-third of the price of an SRO. At $35 per hour, “the person will be an employee of the police department, yet the chief will be receptive to any feedback the superintendent provides about the individual.” • Class II Officer: these often seek full-time employment as police officers. “As such, we may have some turnover in the role, which is less than ideal. They have attended most training for a full police officer position.” The rate of pay for a Class II is $25 per hour, she said. ʻMan-trapsʼ pass In March 2021 trustees voted, 5–4, to approve spending more than $1 million to install security vestibules at each of five district

schools to help prevent unauthorized access. Voting in favor were Maureen Colombo, Andrew Gerstmyer, Roberta Hanlon, Matthew Perrapato, and Joseph AbouDauod. Voting against were Michael Pontillo, Stacey Price, Frank Romano and Michelle Sembler. (The composition of the board has since changed.) Pontillo — also Westwoodʼs chief of police — criticized the proposal on introduction and at its vote, calling the $1,041,000,00 expenditure “a feel-good measure, itʼs a kneejerk. Itʼs really not going to make anyone safer.” Pontillo also has said he would not participate in discussions or votes related to any school security hire he would be supervising. For more information, visit wwrsd.org.

Coaches: A ‘Who’s Who’ at Cowboys at the Castle er.com. Starline thanked sponsors Jeff Lally, Dr. John Heitner, Matt Grossman, Dave Doerr, Shane Van Horn, and Jason Cirelli.

FROM PAGE 15

Helping honor the coaches were Cowboys: • Tim Janssen ʼ67 football; • Doug Janssen ʼ69 football/wrestling; • Paul Montalbano ʼ69 football/wrestling;

Cowboy superstars Matt Grossman, Bill Kanwisher, Mike Feulner, and Jeff Lally.

1979 champs: Frank Strazza, Jim Ferrante, Russell Schectman, Terry Butler, Kermit Hoffman, Keith Misciagna, and Paul Gravalis.

ball;

• Joe Bird ʼ70 wrestling/foot-

• Eric Vetterlein ʼ70 football/wrestling; • Rich Santoli ʼ72 wrestling; • Jim Ferrante ʼ80 football; • Terry Butler ʼ80 football;

ball;

• Russ Schectman ʼ80 foot-

• Keith Misciagna ʼ81 wrestling/football; • Frank Strazza ʼ81 football/wrestling; • Paul Gravalis ʼ82 football/wrestling; • Kermit Hoffman ʼ82 football, basketball, baseball; • Paul DʼErrico ʼ83 basketball; • Jim Freeman ʼ83 wrestling; • Tom Pepe ʼ84 wrestling/football; • Keith Guillemain ʼ84 basketball, baseball, football; • Mike Feulner ʼ85 football; • Gregg Silcher ʼ86 football,baseball, basketball; • Joe Barnum ʼ86 wrestling/football; Heitner ʼ86 • Dave football/wrestling; • Donny Averna ʼ87 wrestling; Muller ʼ87 • Tim basketball/soccer; • Paul Morales ʼ87 football; • Greg Stalb ʼ87 football;

• Rich Rattazzi ʼ87 football; • Keith Menzel ʼ88 baseball; Lally ʼ88 • Jeff wrestling/baseball; Petrillo ʼ89 • Chris soccer/baseball; • Billy Kanwisher ʼ89 baseball; • Johnny Heitner ʼ89 soccer; • Dave Doerr ʼ89 football/wrestling; • Matt Grossman ʼ89 wrestling; • Jon Doscher ʼ89 football/basketball; • Pete Menger ʼ89 football; • Scott Barabash ʼ89 football; • Eric Szonyi ʼ89 football; • Mike Mandile ʼ89 football/baseball; • Ricky Fuller ʼ89 hockey BCHS; • Rich Kuiters ʼ90 football/wrestling; and • Doug James ʼ91 wrestling. — Laura Spaeth is a writer and producer with Starline Films. Photos courtesy Tyler Balkema

1968 champs: Joe Bird, Eric Vetterlein, head coach Bob Burke, defensive coach Bucky Rehain, Tim Janssen, Doug Janssen, and Paul Montalbano.

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Steven A. GERSON

Steven Andrew Gerson of Leonia, formerly of Teaneck and Hillsdale, died on Monday, Dec. 27, 2021. Steven was an electrical contractor specializing in generator installation and repair. He was president and owner of ABB Electric Inc. for more than 30 years. Steven is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Gail (Cerutti); his brothers Robert (and his wife Sally), Jeffrey (and his wife Kim), and his twin brother David (and his wife Sophie). He has nine nieces and nephews: Suzanne, Amy, Michael, Melissa, Carly, William, Samantha, Christopher, and Rebecca. Steven was a wonderful son to his parents, Julius and Pearl, and a devoted husband, brother, uncle and friend. He was quite a character and always fun to be around. He enjoyed traveling, especially to Bermuda, skiing, and motorcycles. He always kept everybody laughing. A funeral was held at the Garden of Memories, Township of Washington. Donations in Stevenʼs memory can be made to Direct Relief Emergency Response for Covid19, www.directrelief.org/emergency/coronavirus-outbreak; Direct Relief, 6100 Wallace Becknell Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93117.

Rose CURRY

Rose Curry (née Scudder) of Montvale made her final curtain call— after heroically fighting chronic illness—and exited stage-left on New Yearʼs morning,

OBITUARIES

2022, leaving her audience clamoring for more. Her 68-year run leaves so many wonderful memories from cherished friendships and occasions. She made everything an event (“Make a fuss—he/she/they deserve it!”) Summers at the shore, birthdays and anniversaries—and not just for family, to say nothing of holidays. Life itself was a cause for celebration! The house always had fresh flowers from the many gardens she worked with the help of her grounds crew—her husband, Brian. If you knew her, you knew the twinkle in her eye and the lilt of her voice — right, Senior Club members? She will be missed, yes, but she will always be with all of those who knew her. Rose left her native San Francisco with the dream of performing on the Broadway stage, a singing, dancing, and acting triple threat. And she succeeded! In the midst of her career, she met and married her husband, Brian, and started new roles as wife and mother, the roles she most valued. The determination and confidence that brought her cross-country to New York helped her raise three wonderful kids, with two grandchildren and one due in March. She embedded herself in the community. She was the adult program coordinator at both the Montvale Public Library (which is now named after her) and the Oakland Public Library. She was elected to the Montvale Borough Council in 2012 and reelected two more times (serving for 10 years) and served on the Montvale PTO (including as president and vice president) from 1990 to 2004. Rose directed and choreographed after school drama (the Backpack Players) at Memorial Elementary School, musicals at Summit and Pascack Hills High Schools and Don Bosco Prep, and “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” at Montvale Evangelical Free Church. She also volunteered time with the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Tri-Boro Food Pantry,

and Meals on Wheels. She received a 2021 Congressional Fifth District Hometown Hero Award from Rep. Josh Gottheimer. She was a member of Montvale Evangelical Free Church, where she served and sang, since 1990. Rose is survived by her dear husband, Brian; their three children, Sean Curry (Kelly), Evan Curry (Victoria), and Emma Downey (Michael); and her two grandchildren, Molly Jane and Anna Rose. She is predeceased by her older sister Ellen (California), and survived by her siblings Betty, John, Paula, Sara (California), and William (Texas), as well as many Curry in-laws and lots of nieces and nephews who loved their “Auntie Rose.” Viewing will be 2–4 p.m. and 7–9 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 9 at Robert Spearing Funeral Home, 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, rsfhi.com. Roseʼs homegoing service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 10 at Montvale Evangelical Free Church. In lieu of flowers, donations in Roseʼs memory can be made to Tri-Boro Food Pantry and Bergen County Meals on Wheels.

Dr. Richard A. RUSSO

On Dec. 30, 2021, this planet lost a true legend when Dr. Richard A. Russo, 74, of Montvale, passed away at his home, in the loving arms of his family. Rich, fondly known as “Doc,” “Shi Shi,” “Bop,” and “Papa,” was born on September 17, 1947, in Clearwater, Florida, to Ronald and Mary Russo. He attended St. Cecilia High School (Englewood) followed by Fairleigh Dickinson University (Teaneck), which preceded a long and beautiful career as one of the most beloved educators in the state.

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He spent more than 30 years as the “very cool and funny” math and science teacher at Fieldstone Middle School in Montvale. During this time, Rich was also an adjunct professor of astronomy at Ramapo College in Mahwah. After retiring from middle school, he started a new adventure as director of teacher education at Ramapo. Rich also received his Ph.D. in archeoastronomy, which came from his adoration for the universe and the Mayan culture. Looking back at a career that spanned seven decades, Rich retired in 2021 from Ramapo College. Rich taught with incredible passion, humor, and his own personal life stories, deeply touching thousands of lives. But Richʼs true love was being with his family, which included his wife, four children, and seven grandchildren. He lived for being with his family and he had a deep appreciation for every moment in his life. A true testament to the strong bonds this man created was that he maintained many of his childhood friendships throughout his life. As one of his heroes, Galileo, would say, “Curiosity is the key to problem solving.” That was Rich. He wanted to be in the know, and then he offered invaluable advice. He lit up the room with his largerthan-life presence. His stories, his speeches, his toasts: he was the master of ceremonies. He always said it was good to know a little about a lot of things and how that makes for a good story. He also enjoyed biking, smoking a good cigar, laughing, reading, and pop-up visits to his kids (also known as “making the rounds”). He loved the solar system, classical music, and a great diner. He hated small talk and Tom Hanks. Richard Russo is a light that will never burn out. Rich is survived by his loving wife, Debby, of Montvale; his daughter, Gina Lippman, and her husband, Gary, of River Edge; his son, Ron Russo, and his wife, Nikki, of Westwood; his son, Seth Queler, and his wife, Linda, of River Edge; his son, Evan Queler, and his wife, Sonia, of Park Ridge; and his seven grandchildren, Ashley, Olivia, Nina, Jacob, Jaden, Marcus, and Layla. The apples of his eye. Rich is also survived by his sister, Claudia Dehayes, and her husband, Tony, of Ringwood; his brother-in-law, Lewis Wolstein, and his wife, Patty, of White Plains, New York; his sister-in-law, Marianne Neifeld, and her husband, Gary, of Rhinebeck, New York; and his sister-in-law, Abby Wolstein, of Boynton Beach, Florida; along with many, many nieces, nephews, other multiple extended family members and loyal friends. He is also predeceased by his brother-in-law, Peter Wolstein. Arrangements will be announced for a spring Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richʼs memory to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, pancan.org/ways-to-give.

Phyllis W. SOLEY

Phyllis W. Soley, 86, of Westwood, passed away on Monday, Dec. 27, 2021. Beloved wife of George A. Soley Sr. Devoted mother of John Morton, Lori, George Jr., and Richard Soley. One of seven siblings, she is survived by her dearest sister, Mary “Mickey” Childs. Loving grandmother of Steven, Diana (deceased), Jonathan, Frederick and Carlos Morton; and Dava and Ethan Soley. Treasured greatgrandmother of 20 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great-grandchildren, and one adoring great-great-greatgrandchild. Services were held at Westwood United Methodist Church, followed by interment at Westwood Cemetery, Westwood.

Patricia M. CLEMENTS

Patricia M. Clements, 85, of River Vale, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021. She was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Patrick and Kathleen Lavelle. Beloved wife of the late Paul G. Clements. Loving mother of Karen Gallagher and her husband Scott, Frank Clements and his wife Lisa, and Mary Butler and her husband Jim. Treasured grandmother of Steven, Katie, John and Jordan. She is predeceased by her sisters, Kathleen Lozaw (Tom) and Shirley Rigot (Dave). Pat is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Pat was a devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church, Park Ridge, for over 40 years. The Funeral Mass celebrating Patʼs life and faith was held at Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church, with interment following at Ascension Cemetery, Airmont, New York.

Luigino LUCIANI

Luigino Luciani, 74, died Saturday evening, Dec. 25, 2021 in Park Ridge. He was surrounded by his beloved family and the warmth of the Christmas traditions he adored. Luigi was born Jan. 19, 1947 to the late Umberto Luciani and Elvira Conti in Monte San Martino (MC), Italy. A proudly independent young man, he traveled abroad, developing and perfecting his culinary and hospitality skills by studying and working in Italy, France, England and The Bahamas before settling in the CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

invited to make a wooden snow person magnet at the library. Use paint, fabric, and sequins to customize your creation. Space is limited and registration is required. • Catch the film “Cry Macho” (PG-13, 2021) at the libraryʼs Movie Matinee on Tuesday, Jan. 11 from 1–3 p.m. Space is limited. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. All participants must sign a hold harmless agreement. • Friends of the River Vale Library Book Group will meet in the community room Wednesday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. to discuss “Still Life” by Louise Penny. Members meet once a month, usually the second Wednesday. Join them! Upcoming dates and titles are listed on the libraryʼs website. Register online. • Virtual Chair Yoga meets FROM PAGE 10

via Zoom on Thursday, Jan. 13 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. This gentle form of yoga is for seniors and people with disabilities to help them strengthen, stretch, and tone the body, and to connect body, mind and spirit. Register for Zoom access.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586 twpofwashingtonpl.org • Virtual Preschool Story Time Tuesdays at 10 a.m. from Jan. 11. Sessions are posted on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and the libraryʼs website. No registration needed. (Note: in-person storytimes are moved back to February. See website for details.) • On New Release Tuesdays, Allyssa pops onto Facebook and

Obituaries: United States. In 1968, Luigi met Jane Bloodgood while she was vacationing in The Bahamas. They were wed in Florida in 1970 and soon after welcomed their son, Michael, in 1975 and son, Mark, in 1978. The young family relocated to upstate New York and grew to include son John in 1980 and daughter Maria in 1982. He worked various positions in the hospitality industry throughout his career. Some of his most notable accomplishments included operating The Park Plaza Hotel in New Haven, Connecticut, and eventually opening, co-owning and directing numerous renowned restaurant and banquet venues simultaneously with long-time friend Frank Perrotti Jr. of Hamden, Connecticut. 500 Blake Street Cafe of New Haven and Colonial Thymes of Hamden were each adorned with countless accolades and many of those he worked with became like family to him. Although his work was second-to-none, he was most passionate about his loved ones. He never failed to make Sunday and Monday night family dinner from scratch with his children. In them, he instilled the values of family, tradition, respect, hard work and ethics while creating life-long morals and memories of laughter. He celebrated the marriages of his eldest sons to daughters-in-law Amanika Punhani in 2004 and Janelle Gadomski in 2015. He had great enthusiasm for finding and creating beauty in many areas of life. He enjoyed being in nature and often went scuba diving as a young man. Later in life, he loved taking nature walks and kayaking with his children. Antiquing and refinishing pieces for the restaurants, his home and for his children to treasure, was a favorite hobby. Perhaps his most savored pas-

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time throughout his life was improving recipes to the delight of his family and guests. In retirement, he was happiest being Nonno to 13year-old granddaughter Saisha, and 9-year-old twin grandsons Dylan and Shawn. Watching them grow and passing down family stories and customs brought him the greatest joy. He is survived by his wife, Jane Luciani, of Saratoga, New York; son Michael Luciani and his wife, Amanika, of Toronto, Canada; son Mark Luciani and his wife, Janelle, of Park Ridge; son John Luciani of Ballston Spa, New York; daughter Maria Luciani of Queensbury, New York; grandchildren Saisha Luciani, Dylan Luciani and Shawn Luciani; brother Franco Luciani and his wife, Elena, of SantʼElpidio a Mare, Italy; nephew Lorenzo Luciani of Rimini, Italy; and niece Laura Luciani of SantʼElpidio a Mare, Italy.

president of administrative services from CBS Inc. in 1995 after 33 years. He was an active member of Our Lady Mother of the Church in Woodcliff Lake. In 1998, he was awarded the Archdiocese of Newark Jubilee Medal Pro Meritis for his dedication and service. In 2003, he received the Monsignor Waterson Award from Incarnation School for his commitment to the young people of the parish and school. A Mass celebrating Bobʼs life and faith was held at Our Lady Mother of the Church, Woodcliff Lake, with interment following at Ascension Cemetery in Airmont, New York. In lieu of flowers, donations in Robertʼs name may be made to the Tri-Boro Food Pantry, 65 Pascack Road, Park Ridge, NJ 07656 Venmo: @Triboro-Pantry; visit triborofoodpantry.org.

Robert E. MONAGHAN

Alfred J. THOMAS

Robert Emmet Monaghan, 90, of Woodcliff Lake, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021. Beloved husband of Margaret (Peggy). Devoted father of Helen Cottrell and her husband, Dan; Anne MonaghanBaker and her husband, Dan; and Robert A. Monaghan. Loving grandfather of Kasey, Erin, and Colin Cottrell. Born in New York, he attended All Hallows High School from 1946–1950. He attended Iona College from 1950–1952 and was drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in the Korean War. He returned to Iona in 1954 and graduated with a bachelorʼs degree in business administration. He worked for AT&T until 1962 and retired as vice

Alfred “Al” Joseph Thomas, 85, of Emerson, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Johanna (Witte) Thomas, and his beloved wife of 48 years, Bette (Horstmann). Al is survived by his three loving daughters, Erika, Kristine (and her husband, John), and Victoria, as well as his cherished grandson, John. He is also survived by his brother and sisterin-law, John and Carol Horstmann, and his nieces, Karen and Laura. Al was born in New York City and raised in the Bronx prior to moving to Emerson in 1974. Al was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1958 and served in Panama. He was honorably discharged from the U.S.

ments. Januaryʼs sessions will be virtual via Facebook and YouTube. Jan. 13 is Lego building; Jan. 20 is a winter craft; Jan. 27 is STEM Story Time. All at 3:30 p.m. Register online. • Sign up for Januaryʼs Adult & Teen Craft and join Allyssa for a virtual winter paint-along. The library provides the supplies and instructional video—you follow along at your leisure. Register online, then pick up the kit starting Jan. 17. Video available Jan. 20 at noon on the libraryʼs website, social media, and YouTube. WESTWOOD 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org • The next title in the Reading for Equity book discussion series is “The Piano Lesson,” the 1987 play for which American playwright August Wilson received the Pulitzer Prize for

Army Reserves in 1964. He was a proud member of American Legion Post 269. Al was also an active member of Zion Lutheran Church in Westwood. A mass celebrating Alʼs life and faith was held at Zion Lutheran Church in Westwood, with interment following at George Washington Cemetery in Paramus. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel To Towers Foundation (t2t.org) or Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org).

Robert STARLING

Robert “Bobby” Starling, 56, passed away peacefully at his apartment in Park Ridge on Dec. 13, 2021. Born in Paterson, Bobby spent his formative years in Elmwood Park. He graduated from Memorial High, where he participated on the soccer and tennis teams. Eventually, he found his calling as an auto mechanic, working at several area garages. Thereafter, he opened his own shop and became the proud owner of Starling Automotive in Garfield. He ran a successful auto repair business for over 12 years, serving the needs of a great many local customers. Then he worked a short time in Florida but returned to North Jersey, where he worked for five years at Park Ridge Auto. Bobby enjoyed many happy hours of fishing and golfing with his many friends. He had a lifelong love of rock ʻnʼ roll music— most especially he was dedicated to The Beatles. He also loved to play softball with local menʼs teams, on both weekdays and weekends. His favorite teams were the Devils and the Jets and he passionately assembled quite a collection of their team jerseys. Bobby displayed a quick wit with an outrageously comedic ban-

Drama. The group meets on Zoom Monday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. Register for access. • Peek-A-Book Story Time (children to age 5) is every Wednesday in January, 10:30–11 a.m., at the library. Children listen to stories, sing, dance, do fingerplays, review numbers, colors, animals and more. Register online. • Making Easy Healthy Smoothies (grades 6–12) is virtual on WebEx on Wednesday, Jan. 12 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Learn to create healthy, flavorful smoothies in this program led by a registered dietician. You provide the ingredients. Register and find ingredients list online. • Tweens and teens grades 6–12 can learn to make their own DIY Zen Garden on Google Meet, Thursday, Jan. 13 from 4 to 4:30 p.m. Start the New Year with a Zen vibe. Materials supplied. Register online.

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Library Calendar

Instagram to share new book releases. Book reviews, laughs, and more! There is no set time for this live program, available on the libraryʼs website on demand in the evening. Follow the library on social media to see when Allyssa goes live. • In the Book Cooks Club— next date, Wednesday, Jan. 12 at noon—join Allyssa as she invites you to virtually visit her kitchen to cook up a new dish or two. Cook along live or watch the video on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or the libraryʼs website to see how itʼs done before you give it a try. Recipes are posted on the libraryʼs website. • The Genealogy Group will meet Wednesday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Local genealogist Fred Voss assists you in unraveling the secrets of your family tree. Call the library to register. • STEAM Thursday, for grades K–5, is all about making crafts and trying science experi-

ter, which greatly, and continually, entertained his friends and acquaintances. He was predeceased by his mother, Jo Ann Tunnell Woloshyn, and his maternal grandmom, Marie Tunnell. Bobby is survived by his paternal grandmother Erma, his dad Bob, step-mom Maggie, brothers Gary Starling and sister-in-law Toni, brother Johnny Woloshyn, nieces Julia and Brianna, aunt Lynn, uncle Jeff, aunt Sonyia, cousin Todd, and step-dad John Woloshyn. A grateful thanks goes out to Bobbyʼs especially close Aunt Lynn and very close friends Dino and Jimmy, who were always there for him all the many years throughout his struggle. It meant the world to him. His family will remember your commitment, kindness, and love forever.

Janet CASEY

Janet Caivano Casey, of Park Ridge, passed away suddenly on Dec. 30, 2021. She was 66. A warm and generous, wonderful and kind mother, partner and friend, Janet loved Christmas, shopping, time away in the Poconos with her sweetheart, long phone chats with Jamie, filling the table at family gatherings, and lots of quality time as “Grammy” with the family dogs and cats. She is survived by her son Billy, her pride and joy, and his husband William Rice, her loving husband James Duncan, former spouse and friends William Casey and his wife Diane, and her large family at Valley Medical Group. She was predeceased by her adoring parents, Victor and Jane. In lieu of flowers, donations on Janetʼs behalf to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital are welcome.

JANUARY 10, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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