Pascack Press 1.3.22 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 42

PASCACK VALLEY

TOWNS

KICK OFF

2022

Some new faces on governing bodies

MEETINGS

JANUARY 3, 2022

CELEBRATING IN STYLE Holidays 2021 light the way to brighter 2022

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

While Montvale holds its annual Borough Council reorganization meeting at noon on Sunday, Jan. 2, other Pascack Valley towns hold reorg meetings Monday and Tuesday, with a majority choosing Tuesday, Jan. 4, to introduce new members and welcome back victorious incumbents. Some towns mix in a yearending sine die (Latin for conclusion of a meeting), while others simply introduce the new members and kick off the New Year with a mostly congratulatory and ceremonial session generally featuring a limited agenda. Refer to municipal websites to confirm whether proceedings are being broadcast via Zoom, YouTube, or a community access channel. Most events are in-person only. Montvale welcomed back incumbent Republican council members Dieter Koelling and Annmarie Russo-Vogelsang, who were reelected over a lone Democratic challenger, Steven A. Frischer. The reorg meeting was in-person only. On Monday, Jan. 3 at 7:30 p.m., the Township of Washingtonʼs reorganization meeting features Republican Mayor Peter Calamari swearing in for a second term, along with running mate and returning councilman Thomas Sears, and newcomer Daisy Velez. They bested a team of Independent challengers: councilman Michael DeSena and running mates Kevin Zitko and Michael Werfel.

See TOWNS on page 314

PASCACK VALLEY

MAYOR URGES NEW AFFORDABLE HOUSING SYSTEM

Fourth-round obligations kick off in July 2025 BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

John and Kate Ward’s spectacular home on Ridge Avenue in Park Ridge landed top honors in the GFWC Paskack Junior Woman’s Club 2021 Holiday Lights Contest. John Ward says the couple are going even bigger for Christmas 2022.

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

HE GFWC PASKACK Junior Womanʼs Club has announced the winners of its 2021 Holiday Lights Contest, and what amazing homes they are! Organizers told Pascack Press the contest aimed to “encourage a sense of community and holiday spirit by rewarding Pascack Valley residents that go above and beyond in decorating their home TOP: WARD FAMILY PHOTO

for the winter holiday season. Each and every home that participated exhibited extraordinary enthusiasm for bringing holiday cheer. Their good will has brought so much joy to the community.” Needed funds were raised for local charities. Winning homes, with Paskack Junior Womanʼs Club comments: • First place: The Ward family, for their gorgeous home on Ridge Avenue in Park Ridge, with

Continued on page 12

Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo tells Pascack Press that it is important for Pascack Valley towns to be proactive, not reactive, in creating a new affordable housing system in 2025. He also wants to see our towns join together to address the impacts of development on the valley as new units are rising due to affordable housing settlements. “It is incumbent upon us as public officials to help our residents deal with the impacts of development,” Rendo said in late December 2021, noting high-density developments in Park Ridge, Montvale, Emerson, and the Township of Washington. Local and regional school districts, too, are working to update their understanding of local demographics as an influx of students is anticipated. A fourth round of affordable housing obligations begins in July 2025, when the third round of obligations ends. That fourth round will be calculated by either legal (Superior Courts) or legislative action (new laws) passed by the state Assembly, Senate and signed by Gov. Phil Murphy — or possibly the

See MAYOR on page 244

GATHERING GREATNESS

B ck in time...

River Vale Girl Scout Troop 97113 knocked their coat drive out of the park, collecting more than 400 coats, and boxes brimming with hats, gloves, and scarves. All will be put to good use. SEE PAGE 27

1922 Chevrolets lined the roadway in front of the I.J. Demarest garage and showrooms. If you’re heading to this spot today, it’s probably to grab a bite to eat. Kristin Beuscher has the story. SEE PAGE 4

PASCACK PRESS

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Celebrate Westwood looks back and ahead To the editor: ! 2021 was W simultaneously a year of unexpected challenges and unbriHAT A YEAR

dled joy Thankfully, weʼve have Pascack Press to cover each and every bit of it! We are grateful for

their tireless coverage of stories across the Pascack Valley, but particularly, all the things worth celebrating in Westwood. Sure, we went a little “stir crazy” this year but we dined the hubʼs 40-plus eateries and welcomed new culinary favorites! We welcomed a dozen new retail and service shops at Chamber of Commerce ribbon cuttings and during our signature “Shop the Hub” Saturdays! We infused the streets and the parks with art, music, and live theatre throughout the warmer months with over 35 “Arts on the Avenues” performances, three

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stage productions at the bandstand, and three visual art festivals in Veteransʼ Memorial Park! We spotlighted Westwoodʼs best parts — residents and businesses alike — and honored our hometown heroes at Home for the Holidays (and have stunning photos to prove it)! We partnered with scores of Westwood community organizations and borough departments, and spent countless volunteer hours creating, collaborating, and celebrating! Thank you for showing up! For clicking “share” or “like” on Instagram and Facebook, for sending us your stories and photos, and for celebrating along with us! If thereʼs one thing weʼve learned these past few years, itʼs that with a little collaboration and a lot of creativity, thereʼs always something to celebrate! Westwood: The Hub of the Pascack Valley. We canʼt wait for whatʼs in store for 2022! Lauren Letizia and RoseAnn Ciarlante Co-chairs

Celebrate Westwood planned to ring in the New Year on the evening of Dec. 31, 2021 at the Veterans Memorial Park band-

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stand with music by Liv Lion, activities, and glow sticks. The Westwood Volunteer Fire Department was to help with a ball drop.

WESTWOOD

WINTER REC REGISTRATION STARTS JAN. 4

Registration for Westwood Recreationʼs 2022 Winter Programs begins Jan. 4 for residents; Jan. 10 for non-residents. The flyer is posted at westwoodnj.gov/recreation and on facebook.com/westwoodnjrec. Fourteen new classes have been added to the schedule with classes ranging from dance and art to pickleball and science. The 2022 Winter Program flyer also includes registration information for the Westwood Recreation Preschool, Special Needs Activity Program, Forever Young 55+ Program and Westwood Softball and Baseball. “Weʼre starting 2022 with a Editorʼs note: At press time, jam-packed schedule that is sure to have an activity for your toddlers, tweens and teens,” said Gary Buchheister, Recreation Director. “We are especially excited to kick-off Pickleball for middle-schoolers who will be working with volunteers from our ForeverYoung program to learn this fast-growing new sport.” On the schedule for 2022: percussion band for ages 3–5, jam band music for grades K–3 and Secrets of Magic for grades 4–8 on Mondays; pickleball for middleschoolers, preschool art and drama for grades 1–6 on Tuesdays; movement for toddlers, Yoga for grades

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K–3, mindfulness for teens and piano for preschoolers on Wednesdays; art and CSI science on Thursdays; dance on Fridays and indoor tennis on Saturdays. Rejoining the line-up following last yearʼs hiatus in programming is an Afterschool Kids Club for Westwood residents in grades 4 and 5. Additionally this winter, adults can choose from recreational volleyball, power volleyball, menʼs and womenʼs open gym basketball and yoga. 2022 Winter Program registration begins on Monday, Jan. 4 at 9 am on a first-come, first served basis at westwoodnj.gov/recreation using Community Pass or at the Recreation Department (cash, check, money order to Borough of Westwood). If classes are open, non-residents may register on Monday, Jan. 10 for an additional $25. Buchheister said, “We are very happy to be back to regular activities in our Community Center. Itʼs been wonderful to see everyone at our recent community events and for our pre-season travel basketball games. We are hopeful that this upcoming season will be one of our best in terms of participation and enjoyment.”

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Forum on superintendent search Jan. 5 MONTVALE

Pascack Valley Regional High School students, staff, parents and residents have an opportunity on Wednesday, Jan. 5 at 7:30 p.m. at Pascack Valley High Schoolʼs auditorium to express opinions on their expectations for a new superintendent search. At last word, the forum will be in-person only, and will not be available for livestreaming or later viewing. PVRHSD oversees Pascack Hills High School in Montvale, serving students from Montvale and Woodcliff Lake; and Pascack Valley High School in Hillsdale, serving students from Hillsdale

and River Vale. As part of its effort to develop a superintendent candidate profile, in consultation with a search firm, the district has held a series of focus group meetings in December, plus sought community input through an online survey due back no later than Friday, Jan. 7, said district officials. Work to replace P. Erik Gundersen, who left the district six months ago after serving 10 years as superintendent and over 27 years in various educational positions, heated up recently with trustees bringing Strategic Educational Advantage, a superintendent executive search firm, on board to help manage the process. In early December, the district sent emails to teachers,

mayors, administrators, chiefs of police, sending districtsʼ superintendents, parentsʼ associations, central office staff, and student organizations to hold focus groups to help gather input for a superintendent search. “Focus groups are an important part of the search process, gathering input from teachers, support staff, administrators, parents, students and community members about the attributes, experience and knowledge they believe the new superintendent should possess,” said a school board email urging focus group participation. “The focus groups also provide an opportunity for participants to identify challenges and opportunities upon which the new superintendent should con-

ForeverYoung yoga, art, and tai chi

WESTWOOD

Westwood Recreation is enrolling adults 55 and up for its ForeverYoung yoga, art and taichi classes starting Jan. 4. 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

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 starting Jan. 4, 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) 664-7882.

centrate,” said the district email. The survey asks participants to identify themselves as an administrator, teacher, support staff, parent, community member or student, though responses are anonymous. The Dec. 10 email from regional trustees spells out the consultantʼs role in assisting a superintendent search and asks for community input. The district said Dr. Michael Kuchar and Dr. Frank Auriemma

are leading the search process, which includes conducting focus group interviews, surveying the community, and hosting an Open House Community Forum, “assuring the community has multiple ways to provide input as the search firm develops a candidate profile.” The survey link is live at surveymonkey.com/r/KY57VB9. The school board hired Dr. Daniel Fishbein last summer to serve as interim superintendent.

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JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

B ck in time...

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF PASCACK PRESS

APPY NEW YEAR, Pascack Valley! This week we welcome 2022 with a visit to 1922, when the photo above was snapped on Jefferson Avenue in Westwood. Here, a shipment of new 1922 Chevrolets line the roadway in front of the I.J. Demarest garage and showrooms. If youʼre heading over to this spot today, itʼs probably to grab a bite to eat. However, at one time this block was home to the old-

est Chevy dealership in America. General Motors set out in 1977 to discover the oldest continuously operating Chevy dealership in the nation. The company discovered that the distinction belonged to then 90-year-old I.J. Demarest, who opened his business at the corner of Jefferson and Center avenues in Westwood back in 1914. It was in that year that Demarest sold his first Chevy, a Baby Grand, to Tunis Bogert. By 1977, Demarestʼs son, Irwin, and grandson Roger were running the business. Demarest had been a plumber netting about $13.50 per week when he switched gears and entered the automo-

bile world in 1914. Back then, Chevrolet itself was just three years old and gasoline cost 11 cents a gallon. In the early days of automobiles, cars were a novelty and people didnʼt know much about them. Many were reluctant to believe that this new mode of transportation would ever replace the tried and true horse and carriage. Back then, when you sold someone a car, you often had to teach them how to drive it as well! By 1922, the year of this photograph, there were about 12 million motor vehicles registered in America. As we begin 2022 that figure stands at approximately 290 million—or 1.88 cars per household.

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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

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.

Passages, and welcome additions, in Westwood

WESTWOOD

N THE SUNDAY before Christmas 2021, Zion Lutheran Church was at the crossroads of memory, tragedy and promise. A memorial funeral service was held for 104-year-old Westwood resident Marie Olszewski. She was three months shy of 105. Sheʼd come to Westwood from Germany in 1938 and, with her husband, Alwin, lived for 83 years in the corner house next to the Library on Park Avenue. (She and Alwin managed and operated a tailor shop here for many years.) For context, the Borough of Westwood was only 24 years old when Marie was born. Though I didnʼt know her, the vivid eulogy her grandson delivered revealed a woman of character who, herself, was quite a character. The image of her clearing gutters of leaves up on her roof, at 92, reveals a stubbornly independent soul. Marieʼs grandson spoke of her with humor and grace. She was very opinionated and quite generous in sharing her opining. “Itʼs not that she sometimes seemed to be judgmental, she was judgmental. And, as Pastor Tom Pranschke observed, ʻIf you dis-

OLSZEWSKI

RIVERA

agreed with her that was clearly part of the problem — your problem, and yours alone!ʼ” Marie also was a great cook, who took the prayerful plea, Give us this day our daily bread, as marching orders from the top. Everyone who came to visit got a piece of her mind but it was served with a plate of pot roast and a slice of strudel or a clutch of cookies for the journey home. Marie had opined that having survived two world wars and two worldwide pandemics she probably was indestructible. Nobody is, of course. We are finite creatures. “Ashes to ashes and dust to dust” is the fate of the flesh. But in her stalwart Christian faith Marie found a vaccine that would preserve her eternal soul. One of our residents, Lillian Rivera, whom Iʼd seen at Marieʼs memorial, died later that evening after suffering a cardiac event at home. She was vitally alive one minute and gone the next — from her husband, her sister, her nieces, her people.

Vicolo

Lillian had a distinctive look: her layer-cut blonde hair cascading over the right side of her face, with the left side buzzed short. She wore black-rimmed glasses and cut a distinctive figure. It was a bold look, especially at 63. But she pulled it off because her youthful spirit was ageless. The picture placed near her casket — Lillian at some family affair, smiling for the camera and flashing the peace sign — captured her essence perfectly. She was, truly, one of the nicest people Iʼve ever met. I never heard her utter a harsh word about anyone — always positive and encouraging. She was beloved by all who crossed her path. The world needs more genuinely good souls like Lillian. Perhaps it got one. On that afternoon, right after Marieʼs funeral service, Zion Lutheran was the scene of a babyʼs baptism. The old church had been decorated for Christmas, with evergreen swags, two huge wreaths hung high up on the altar, and a fully trimmed Christmas tree off to the left of the pulpit. Iʼd never been to a funeral service in a church decorated for Christmas, and it struck me initially as discordant. But as her grandson delivered her eulogy I was sure it would have delighted Marie. I pictured her baking and cooking up a storm for her husband, family, friends, and visitors

on Christmas. She was calling the shots, running the show — and happily so … very much in her element. I hope Lily made that joyous connection too. Zion Lutheran was also her church home. She was in the bosom of her family while celebrating Marieʼs life. And Lily was still there when sheʼd passed away just a short time later. So, everything was as it should have been. The church decorations were timely and appropriate. On Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021 Westwood resurrected our Home for the Holidays parade from its

covid crypt. On the 18th, the Sunday before the day that marks Christʼs birth, two beloved residents went home to forever dwell with him, while a newborn came to claim him at Zion Lutheran Church — in Westwood. Covid-19 has challenged, sickened and even taken our lives. But it hasnʼt defined us. The real story of our lives together in Westwood is one of “Amazing Grace.” And on the Sunday before Christmas we fell to our knees at its bittersweet sound. — Ray Arroyo is mayor of the Borough of Westwood

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JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Bah, humbug? Borough defends holiday party costs BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

A holiday soiree that cost nearly $7,000 in tax dollars? Not so fast, says the boroughʼs former chief finance officer. Resident Jonathan DeJoseph chastised the council Dec. 14 for picking up the tab for municipal employees to enjoy a nearly $7,000 holiday party Dec. 9 at the Edgewood Country Club, the first holiday celebration for local employees since 2019. DeJoseph raised concerns twice during the Dec. 14, 2021 meeting during public comment periods. He questioned the expense as more than triple what was spent during prior years, during which he served as chief municipal finance officer, borough administrator, and qualified purchasing agent. DeJoseph is now chief finance officer in Woodcliff Lake.

Also, he said previous parties often were paid for out of a Joint Insurance Fund account, but Borough Administrator Chris Tietjen said the party was paid for out of the regular municipal budget (current fund). Pascack Press requested a copy of the party invoice. It said the event cost a total of $6,959, including $5,189 for 70 employees, a $1,000 deposit, and a $770 gratuity. The invoice lists an adult guests minimum guarantee of 70 guests at $102. Tietjen said the event committee investigating potential holiday party venues “did its due diligence” and that the year-end reward was “well deserved on behalf of the borough employees.” Tietjen, who is in charge of borough employees, was asked about DeJosephʼs criticism. “It has been the tradition of the Borough of Hillsdale (as Mr. DeJoseph is well aware), over an extended period of time, to recog-

nize the efforts of its employees by celebrating with a holiday get together. While private employers often extend appreciation by providing year-end bonuses or gifts, as a public employer, the Borough is not permitted to do so,” Tietjen said. He added, “Due to the onset of the Covid health crisis, last year [2020] the Borough could not carry on with this tradition, despite the fact that our employees were called upon to make a higher degree of personal effort and sacrifice in making sure that the services our residents have come to expect were delivered.” Due to the Covid hiatus and the efforts of the boroughʼs employees, it was decided that this yearʼs holiday get-together should and would be a special occasion. It should be noted that this was the largest attended holiday gathering since this tradition was incorporated by the Borough,” Tietjen said. Council President Abby

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Lundy said that no party was held in 2020 and the party was really to make up for the last two years. “I have no further comment other than what I stated during the council meeting. I defer the matter to the Borough Administrator as this falls under the day to day operations of the borough,” Lundy wrote Pascack Press. Tietjan said 70 people attended the party, which featured an open bar and buffet. Among attendees were Mayor John Ruocco, Lundy, and council members John Escobar, Janetta Trochimiuk, and Frank Pizzella. A group photo shared with Pascack Press showed employees and some public officials gathered comfortably around a Christmas tree. [“A Hillsdale Christmas,” Dec. 20, 2021.] Ruocco told Pascack Press on Dec. 22, “The Borough has always had a holiday gathering for its employees, professionals, and elected officials (except 2020 due to the pandemic) and the venue has changed from year to year.” Ruocco told us, “Your question as to the appropriateness of the cost is a matter best put to individual council members who reviewed

and approved the bill list on Dec 14.” He said the mayorʼs office plays “no role” in the partyʼs planning or execution. Tietjen acknowledged the special efforts made by employees during Covid and said that they were essential workers deserving of recognition. “It should be noted that Hillsdale is not alone in recognizing the extraordinary efforts of public employees during this ongoing health emergency,” he said. He added, “It was the consensus of the borough that its employees were entitled to a special recognition this year for their dedicated work as essential workers.” Over Ruoccoʼs protestations, DeJoseph was not renewed as CMFO, business administrator, and qualified purchasing agent in 2019 when the council signaled it was restructuring those positions. Serving in those functions since early 2016 and on the cusp of BA tenure, DeJoseph resigned, effective Oct. 25, 2019. There was a brief interim administratorʼs tenure, then the council hired Tietjen as borough administrator.

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFF LAKE

As more than 1,000 housing units go on the market in upcoming years in nearby Montvale and Park Ridge, Woodcliff Lakeʼs mayor has asked his borough attorney to weigh in on options that the borough has to address potential local impacts of Park Ridgeʼs 448-unit rental apartment development, including 68 affordable units, planned for a former Sony site near homes and on an adjoining Montvale tract. The property will house 185 units with 37 affordables, with construction ongoing. The Park Ridge development was approved in early 2021 as part of its affordable housing settlement after the borough fought for years in court — racking up hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal bills — to oppose any high-density development on the 30-acre Sony site. As legal bills mounted and court decisions went against Park Ridge, the borough was forced to settle its long-running dispute in late 2020 by agreeing to a 448unit development, along with

other smaller affordable housing projects, to meet its court-mandated affordable obligations. Asked about Woodcliff Lake residentsʼ concerns with impacts from its rental apartment complex, Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna said it is “more difficult” to make changes in the projectʼs details now due to the court-mandated agreement and compliance required. “Park Ridge is very sympathetic toward all the residents that are potentially impacted by this new development regardless of which town they reside. This is exactly the reason Park Ridge led the fight against overdevelopment in our communities. I think itʼs fair to say no town in New Jersey fought as long or harder to stop overdevelopment by aggressive developers than Park Ridge,” Misciagna told Pascack Press on Dec. 22, 2021. “As you know, Park Ridge was facing a lawsuit that would have allowed over 800 units on this site. We spent a significant amount of money, time and resources to stop that project and succeeded in reducing the project almost in half. We have been very transparent during all of this process and I personally asked

every town and all of the area residents to get involved over the past few years,” Misciagna said. He added, “Unfortunately, not many showed and now as the court decides some of the details it is more difficult to significantly change the project concept. With that said, we will continue to advocate for all the area residents to minimize the impact of this project.” In addition to Park Ridge, Montvale had settled its affordable housing litigation in 2017, approving 308 rental units on the former Mercedes-Benz site and 185 rental units on the 7-acre former Sony site. In total, Montvale permitted 615 housing units and 106 affordables as part of its affordable settlement. Overall, Ghassali told Pascack Press on Dec. 21, that the borough will host 951 total housing units coming to market over the next few years, including 420 assisted and senior living units. Not all the development is tied to its affordable housing settlement. Montvaleʼs housing numbers include 80 units at the former A&P site, 25 units on Summit Avenue, 203 senior living units at Thrive, Summit Avenue, and 150

senior living units at the former Western Union building. Just recently, Woodcliff Lake intervened via legal action with nearby Saddle River and was able to minimize impacts from their affordable housing settlement on local residents.

At the Dec. 6 meeting, Brian LaRose, Claremont Drive, saying he represented 43 people in 22 homes in his neighborhood, said they were “dealing with the impacts” of Park Ridgeʼs nearby 448-unit rental CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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EMERSON 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org • Parents, this class is for you and your little ones—just follow along! Baby & Me, for age 2 and under, meets every Tuesday in January at 11 a.m. An introduction to songs, dance and fingerplays with stuffed animals and rhymes. Indoors; masks must be worn. Registration is required for each date you plan to attend. • Chair Yoga for adults is Tuesday, Jan. 4 from 1:30 to 2 p.m. Participants gently move their bodies, gain strength and flexibility,

and find some peace together in this fully-supported, adaptable indoor class. All abilities; no experience needed. Find more information and link to register on the libraryʼs website. • In a virtual program for ages 1–6, little ones will sing, dance, laugh, and learn with Miss Jolie and her ukulele. Miss Jolie Music is via Zoom on Wednesday, Jan. 5 at 9:30 a.m. The children will celebrate the new year with a dance party. Register online; you will receive the Zoom link two hours prior to start time via email. • Fairy tales! Mysteries!

Adventures! Join Miss Victoria for Afternoon Storytime Thursday, Jan. 6 at 3:30 p.m. Open to all children ages 2–5. Registration is recommended, but drop-in welcome. One adult per family permitted in the program area. Masks required. HILLSDALE 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org • Join the Knitting Group to chat with friendly fellow knitters as everyone works on their own projects. Meeting Tuesday, Jan. 4 from 10 a.m. to noon at the library. Bring

your own materials. Space is limited, so register online. • Join Maria at the library and start the day with a Chair Yoga class. Chair Yoga brings the floor to you and is a gentle but satisfying workout ideal for seniors or those who find regular yoga too aggressive. Thursday, Jan. 6, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Registration required. • Zumba via Zoom is Thursday, Jan. 6 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 • Miss Jolie Music is on Zoom Wednesday, Jan. 5 from 9:30–10:30 a.m. Little ones are invited for a dance party with Miss Jolie and her ukulele via Zoom. 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-tofollow movements. Via Zoom, every Thursday at 1 p.m. Visit the libraryʼs website to register for as many sessions as you want. 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). Geared towards 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 kids through a fun craft at home. You must call the library

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PASCACK VALLEY

S A NEW YEAR begins in the Pascack Valley, a brief look back at 2021 shows Pascack Press covering a lot of local news, changes, controversy, and an omnipresent news story — the Covid-19 health crisis — that has transformed our local and national landscape. Itʼs been a pleasure to bring it all to you each week. Check out out our websiteʼs archive for celebrations, transitions, student and scout achievements, fundraising, club news, elections, historic weather, and so much more. Assistant editor Kristin Beuscher has been on the job behind the scenes — and much out in front as author of our weekly “Back In Time” feature, bringing you jewels of local history. Editor John Snyder has worked to tie it all together,

a Dec. 30, 5-1 override by a majority of Hillsdale council members, beating back Mayor John Ruoccoʼs veto of a portion of the boroughʼs newly approved Patterson Street Redevelopment Plan. Only Zoltán Horváth opposed the override. Ruocco vetoed the plan saying he opposed its so-called density bonuses that might allow up to 60 units per acre and structures up to 5 stories, 64-feet high. Only recently, one redeveloper has come forward to begin negotiations on an agreement to build on former Waste Management property in the 14-acre redevelopment area. Finding new parking spaces for dozens of heavy-duty, oversize public works vehicles appeared resolved in Washington Township as the mayor and DPW officials pinpointed free parking locations in Sherry Field, a lot near the Doghouse Saloon and a bank parking lot. The relocated parking was

adding his reporting along the way. He shared in our Dec. 27 issue that the story that perhaps most moved him in 2021 is OLOHAN the work of Hillsdaleʼs Rosemarie DʼAllesandro and the Joan Angela DʼAlessandro Memorial Foundation — or Joanʼs Joy — which works to keep kids safe, ensure justice is served, and support others who do so much for the most vulnerable among us. As always, we welcome your views on timely topics. See our Letters guidelines on Page 2. From my vantage point, hereʼs a recap — hardly exhaustive — of the bigger local stories I covered that remain hot-button issues into 2022. Happy 2021 January 2021 kicked off after

needed due to remediation of contaminated soil at the former DPW building, since demolished and remediation completed. Mayor Peter Calamari even put out an appeal for DPW parking options at the annual Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce Mayorsʼ Breakfast meeting in 2021 — to no avail. However, due to area residentsʼ complaints about public safety concerns, truck traffic, noise and pollution, plans to use

the free parking sites were mostly scuttled. Eventually, the council approved a two-year lease with Our Lady of Good Counsel Church for $66,400 to park DPW vehicles there. Another concern raised by two residents was that the mayorʼs father, a former Planning Board chair and OLGC grounds and finance committee member, created a possible conflict of interest to the leasing deal. The

Patricia J. Villano

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JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

GLORY DAYS are hardly over, if in fact theyʼve yet begun. The playing field calls. Conquer is a mobile app that facilitates participation in athletic competition. Users create and join local pick-up sporting events and competitions at any time. Users LEE LONG are ranked regionally and nationwide based on their performance. gyms, and trainers. Lee and Long grew up in Old The app, according to Conquer founders Matthew Lee Tappan, played competitive soc(COO) and Louis Long (CEO) — cer most of their lives (the two “two ex-athletes longing for the were co-captains of the NVOT opportunity to compete again” — 2015 state sectional soccer team), enables widespread competition graduated high school in 2016, and graduated college in May for all ages and skill levels. “We cater to new, current, and 2020 — Long from Tulane previous athletes who once University (with a dual degree in excelled at their sports but no finance and management consultlonger have the time, organiza- ing) and Lee from Lehigh Univertional framework, and/or venue to sity (with a dual degree in finance compete. Ultimately, our platform and economics). Their chief technology offiseeks to restore the pre-game thrill that athletes miss, love, and need,” cer, Tanner Luke, graduated from ĄĄĄíòĄããò» ĄòÉÏýÄ »òå»°å»» »»gĄ{ .C v » University in Illinois #Wesleyan Lee says. 2020 with a degree To that end theyʼre»òå»°å»» also trying »»gĄ{ ĄĄĄíòĄããò» ĄòÉÏýÄ # .C v » in computer to rally sports facilities, teams, science. He works as an associate OUR

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software engineer at Northrop Grumman in the Chicago area. (He played baseball competitively through high school.) Lee says, “Once we graduated high school, we felt a big part of our lives was missing, which led us to create our company, Conquer – The Easiest Way To Compete.” He adds, “Our goal is to make sports more accessible to everyone, so people can play on a dime. There are a lot of high school stu-

dents who get cut from sports team, and college and post graduate students at home looking to get active.” He says, “In high school, I would have loved to play against some of the athletes from Pascack Valley, but there was no way for us to get connected.” Lee says he hopes that Conquer can create a close-knit community for people to play sports that they love and improve their health. “As someone who did not compete at the collegiate level, I missed having an easy way to play sports with my friends.” Over the past summer, the partners received encouragement from Roy Nygren, the legendary Pascack Valley High School boys soccer coach, who retired in 2019. Lee and Long then presented at Bergenʼs Best Soccer Camp over the summer — PV was one of the high schools there — and spoke with several high school soccer coaches at a Bergen County Boys Soccer Coaches Association meeting. The partners also presented at rec soccer meetings “with a few towns in Bergen County, as they too are looking to get adults more involved in sports… Our goal is to make playing sports as easy as going to the gym for free,” says Lee. He adds, “We will be working with Superdome Sports in Waldwick and have OpenPlay for soc-

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cer. I met a senior from Pascack Valley there and played soccer with him. We will be running a basketball league at the beginning of January at Impact Zone (in Norwood). We will have open runs there for basketball for around $15 per person for an hour and a half.” Lee says, “Our platform is not only for soccer; that just happens to be our strongest network. We have tennis, basketball, football, pickleball, running, volleyball, and more.” He notes that Covid has left “a large impact on peopleʼs physical and mental health,” and that sports are an outlet for people to escape from everyday stress. “We want to build a community in Bergen County for athletes. We have spoken with several coaches and they think a great part of the platform is that athletes from other towns can finally connect and play with each other during the offseason.” Their website says, “With Conquer you can be a member of any team, any time. Find the pregame thrill you seek, meet a new workout buddy, or have fun playing a sport you once loved. The Conquer community goes beyond game time.” They also sell merch, a “Conquer Collection,” to help promote the brand. On its webpage, Conquer makes a case for engagement: • For yourself: “The Conquer app elicits group competition, but the best competitors are constantly competing with themselves. Use our app to show yourself what you are capable of and to constantly improve and perform at your highest level. Work for the top spot in your respective sport, where you will be known and revered in your city.” • With others: “All events on our app require multiple participants. Join and create events with a friend or meet others while playing. Conquer events are designed for those looking to compete and improve. Work with other members of the Conquer community to improve skill and work ethic.” • For your community: “We firmly believe that everyone deserves a chance to conquer, even if the path comes with obstacles. Conquer is proud to partner up with Tackle Kids Cancer to help raise money for pediatric cancer research.” As part of its growth plan, the startup was looking for three students per campus to fill Content and Strategy Internship positions. “Both roles are expected to spread the Conquer mentality and bring a new energetic and competitive edge to their schools. We are looking for applicants who are well-rounded; athletic, sharp, strong-minded, confident, wellknown on campus, and relentless in their pursuit of success.” For more information, visit conquer-us.com. — John Snyder

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Breakfast with the mayors Jan. 26 Malley at (201) 666-0777 or GPVCOC@gmail.com. If space allows, tickets can be also purchased at the door. Visit p a s c a c k c h a m b e r. o r g / e v e n t details/breakfast-with-the-mayors. The Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce (GPVCOC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit 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

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Our Lady of Mercy Church writes to say “In what might be a once in a lifetime opportunity, Pope Francis has convened a Synod on Synodality for 2021–2023. This worldwide process is a two-year examination of the way in which the universal Church listens to and walks with its parishioners. It is an exciting opportunity for every baptized Catholic to be heard, including those who have left the Church, have never been a part of the Church, or who donʼt feel welcome by the Church.” Active church parishioners are invited as well. An information session on the Synod will be held on Jan. 5, 2022 at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Church. The session will be livesteamed at urolm.org. OLMC explains the word synodality means

“walking on the same road together,” and says “The road leads us to personally encounter Christ and to bring the Gospel message to others so that they too may experience Him.” OLMC adds, “Pope Francis has asked every parish in the world to hold listening session in which two key questions will be asked: How is this journeying together happening today in our local church? What steps does the Holy Spirit invite us to take in order to grow in our journeying together?” Weʼre told, “Through the process of prayer, exchange of ideas, listening to one another, and discerning what the Holy Spirit is asking, this is an incredible chance to assist the Holy Father in developing a vision for the future of the Church.” For more information, visit urolm.org or the Archdiocese of Newark at rcan.org/synod2023.

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(from north to south: Montvale, Park Ridge, Woodcliff Lake, River Vale, Old Tappan, Hillsdale, Washington Township, Emerson, and Westwood, 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 Robin

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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, 2022 at 8 a.m. at the Iron Horse Restaurant in Westwood. During the presentation, each mayor or their representative

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

HOLIDAY

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Lights: Winning home displays sing of tradition

HOLIDAY

495 votes. “Their beautiful home definitely fulfills the Clark W. Griswold Award and can probably be seen from outer space!” • Second place: The Kaprielian family, for their home on Ridge Avenue in Park Ridge, with 470 votes. “The display wins the Traditional Award, as it captures classic holiday motifs. Truly dazzling to see!” • Third place: The Fullam family on Jefferson Avenue in Emerson, with 445 votes. “They are the winner of the North Pole Award,

FROM PAGE 1

with their amazing light display featuring creative lawn design and characters.” We called to congratulate firstplace winners John and Kate Ward on their Clark W. Griswold Award — named for Chevy Chaseʼs overthe-top Clark “Sparky” Griswold Jr., the protagonist of ʻChristmas Vacation” — and learned there was much more to their entry than their winning photo revealed. “It doesnʼt show most of the display. Our goal was to take people back in time to a 1960s Christmas. We had music of the time — Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, all those

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guys — playing in the background, and we had vintage light-up figurines, blow molds — our goal was to show people a different Christmas than they usually see nowadays, with all the bright LEDs and flashing lights and stuff.” John Ward is 35 and drawn to midcentury Christmas decor. “It was a very cool time, and you heard stories from grandparents and older aunts and uncles. You kind of wish you did grow up in that time, around the holidays.” He explains, “We actually do use all LEDs, but we managed to find bulbs identical to the incandescent, warm, big lights. That was a decadeʼs search.” Overall, he says, the couple ran 11,000 lights and stood about 60 blow mold figures. Included were giant snowflake cutouts on the roof, a Santaʼs workshop, an iceberg, and a hale and hearty “Merry Christmas, Park Ridge” sign. The couple has been decorating big-time for Christmas for five years, since they bought the house. “More me, than anything, because my wife thinks Iʼm crazy. But this is a culmination of what I think a great Christmas is. In 2022 weʼre going to go even bigger,” he Top: The Kaprielians of Ridge Avenue in Park Ridge took GFWC Paskack Junior Woman’s Club 2021 Holiday Lights Contest’s Traditional Award. Above: The says. John grew up in Ringwood, Fullams on Jefferson Avenue in Emerson landed the North Pole Award. and Kate grew up in Suffern. “She eggs me on, and says, took second place, and the “Tradi- pleʼs annual Halloween display ʻYou need more lights over here. tional” award, in the contest — are draws chills for charity,” Pascack She gets my wheels spinning. Next his and Kateʼs partners on the Press, Oct. 9, 2020. Paskack Junior Womanʼs thing you know thereʼs a box in the search for the perfect find. mail, or a trip to some garage sale,” The Kaprielians, it must be Club donates its time and talents to John says. noted, absolutely crush Halloween serve Pascack Valley communiHe says his neighbors Matt decorating in the borough. For ties. For more information visit and Paulina Kaprielian — who more on that, see “Fun-raiser! Cou- paskackjuniors.org.

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Order Online! Free Delivery! www.jackscafenj.com 325 BROADWAY, WESTWOOD, NJ • (201) 666-0400

DINING

Can’t get out to Vicolo? Prepare its signature dish at home

Vicolo Ristorante meets a full array of dining and entertaining needs. Vicolo welcomes walk-ins, but takes reservations and offers takeout. Vicolo will be delighted to host your holiday business of family parties. Seating is available for up to 100. Catering is also offered and the restaurant has a full bar, including over 100 wines. Live performances during the weekends feature Italian singing and opera-style music.

Enjoy making our Signature Dish at Home!

What to do: • Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Place in roasting pan.

• Buon Appetito! Vicolo is at 216 Old Tappan

and Sundays, 4 to 10:30 p.m. Visit Vicoloʼs website for its

Short Ribs alla Vicolo

What youʼll need:

• 5 lbs Braised Ribs in Flour • 5 Carrots • 2 Ribs , Celery • 1 Yellow onion chopped • 1 Bottle Red Wine

Cardinals vs. Cancer game, more, Jan 8

PASCACK VALLEY

Westwood High School Boys Basketball Alumni are continuing their yearly fight against cancer. The annual Cardinals Alumni Vs. Cancer basketball game is set for Jan. 8, 2022. The event benefits the V Foundation for Cancer Research, founded by ESPN personality and legendary basketball coach Jim Valvano. The event includes an alumni game at 6 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave., followed by a reception at Valley Burger & Brew in River Vale. Post-game festivities begin at 8

and will feature the popular Bergen County musical band Blend. A $50 donation includes the alumni game, concert and open bar reception. Organizers tell Pascack Press, “All are welcome to join the fight. As we see every year during our Cardinals vs. Cancer game, the communities of the Township of Washington and the Borough of Westwood always come together to support our own.” For more information, including donations and registration for the alumni game, email jmsan@msn.com.

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Short ribs alla Vicolo

Sprinkle Rosemary, 1 bunch Thyme, 2 Bay Leaves (remove before serving). • Cook for 3 hours covered. • Serve over Gnocchi Pasta with Roasted Vegetables. • Serves 8

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Pull up a chair at Vicolo Ristorante, where elegance meets affordable — and delicious — Italian cuisine. Road in Old Tappan. Open Mon- menu: vicoloristorante.com. For day–Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 reservations, take-out, catering, p.m. and 4 to 10:30 p.m. Saturdays and more, call (201) 497-8777.

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JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

HOLIDAY

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Sc h ool News

Students host ‘Socks for Soldiers’ – a slam dunk given their skills

DEMAREST

The savvy students from Angels for Veterans and the Academy of the Holy Angels Basketball Team used a dress down opportunity to raise funds for Adopt-a-Soldier Platoon Inc. and Beyond Borders. The groups developed and cohosted Socks for Soldiers, which allowed students to wear “crazy socks” to school in exchange for a $2 donation. “I was so thrilled to see the fundraiser come together,” said Reilly Guy of Fair Lawn, leader of Angels for Veterans. “Weʼd been planning the event with the basketball team for a few weeks now, and just coming into school and seeing everyone with their socks made me really happy.” Guy said, “We were able to raise $219 for Adopt-a-Soldier from this fundraiser, which we'll combine with the money we made from our bake sale to make a total of over $400. Although weʼre not a club directly for soldiers, we're always happy to raise money for causes like Adopt-a-Soldier, especially because itʼs an organization that is supported by our basketball teamʼs tournament.” Eighty percent of the groupsʼ proceeds benefit Adopt-a-Soldier. Twenty percent is being donated to Beyond Borders to further that organizationʼs work in Haiti. Raising funds for Haiti is a school-

wide effort this academic year. In addition to Guy, Angels for Veterans members include Kristina Migliaccio of Franklin Lakes, Reese Orlofsky of Hoboken, Kathleen Bing of Hasbrouck Heights, Olivia Papp of Hawthorne, Samantha Polizzi of River Vale, and Anna Rakowski of Clifton. AHA registrar Angela Kunz is the moderator of Angels for Veterans. The basketball teams are led by Coach Susan Liddy. AHAʼs Varsity Basketball Team, which pitched in by participating in a tournament/fundraiser, includes Amanda Bonilla of Bergenfield; Daria Coll and Emily Danahy of Oradell; Giovanna Corbisiero of Franklin Lakes; Amanda Garcia of New Milford; Celeste Harper of Englewood; Sara Machado of Tappan, N.Y.; Caelan McHugh of Sparkill, N.Y.; Suzanna Odusote of North Haledon; Kyra Sapontzis of Park Ridge; Samantha Serrano of Nanuet, N.Y.; Catherine Tuohy of Cresskill; and Cecilia Yun of Closter. JV Basketball Team members include Maria Akalonu of New City, N.Y.; Lilliana Cardamone of Glen Rock; Anna Casale and Isabella Perillo of Hasbrouck Heights; Julia Covino of Sparkill, N.Y.; Lara Kraus of Englewood; Gabrielle Maimone of Englewood

Cliffs; Jaden Sabathia of Alpine; Alexis Shick and Genevieve Tuohy of Cresskill; and Julia Toker of Teaneck. In 2020, AHA received a special thank you for “adopting” the 114th Infantry of the New Jersey Army National Guard. The regiment sent AHA a 50-star field panel made by Annin Flagmakers. The soldiers signed the panel while they were serving in Qatar. Based in Fair Lawn, Adopt-aSoldier Platoon uses donations to send healthy snacks, coffee, exercise kits, and other items to deployed troops. AaSP is a nonprofit and is run by volunteers. 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 a broad spectrum of cultural and religious backgrounds. Thousands of women have passed through AHAʼs portals. Many go on to study at some of the nationʼs best universities, earning high-ranking positions in medicine, government, law, education, public service, business, arts, and athletics. Students put their smarts to work raising needed funds.

How to manage patients’ expectations with dental implant therapy

As a periodontist, it is my job to inform a p a t i e n t whether dental implant therapy is a viable option for PRIYU GUPTA, DDS, them. An WESTWOOD essential part PERIODONTICS of managing these procedures is to have the knowledge to predict whether the patient will have the same predictability as clinical trial research has achieved — which is, a dental implant CAN have over 95% success rate to be a PERMANENT solution. How do I determine if you are the right candidate? The main factor which predicts initial success after implant surgery is the quantity and quality of the periodontal tissues, the gum and bone. A periodontist is a specialist of periodontal tissues, the title is self explanatory.

The second factor is medical condition. Smoking and lack of diabetic sugar control are another major reason for initial failures. But the largely ignored portion of care are the causes of late failures, which are the oral hygiene or cleanliness of the implant; if the implant is too narrow or small; and the quality of implant parts and materials. If there is no follow up monitoring of the periodontal tissues there is an increased risk of late implant failures and complications. If and when a tooth needs to be extracted and replaced it is most often due to severe destruction of the periodontal tissue. As regeneration of lost gum and bone is the essential step of protocol to allow for a larger and wider implant, the essential part to achieve long term success and stability. This is why periodontists are the only specialty in dentistry who have the title of “board certified

dental implant surgeons.” We are the only specialist designated by the American Dental Association to be given this title, as opposed to oral surgeons, who are not trained like periodontists in periodontal

tissue regeneration, occlusion and monitoring of the entire dentition in relation to the implants and its cleanliness. Our specialty is inclusive of a very strong hygiene program, for

this purpose. For more information, call Westwood Periodontics at (201) 664-3023 or visit us at 354 Old Hook Road #201 in Westwood or WestwoodPeriodontics.com.

Leave it to the Specialists for your dental implants!

A job well done

Photo courtesy WTPD

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The Washington Township Police Department congratulated resident Albert Maalouf on Dec. 10 on his retirement, after 38 years, at the Harrington Park Police Department. In a farewell letter to the Harrington Park community on Nov. 23, Chief Maalouf said in part, “Since childhood, I had envisioned and been intrigued with the police profession and the virtues for which it stood. I recognized from that young age that this was my calling … The fond memories will endure.”

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

We are the leading practice in Bergen County for dental implant therapy and treating all forms of Gum Disease. Everyone is vaccinated, patient safety first. DR. PRIYU GUPTA

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BOARD CERTIFIED PERIODONTIST AND DENTAL IMPLANT SURGEON (Highest Qualifications)

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JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

DR. KAPLAN: Lose weight to give yourself lift against Covid

The new variant of Covid-19 is more transmissible but less deadly than the previous variant and has the same comorbidities, which include obesity, DR. ERIC KAPLAN, diabetes, heart KAPLAN BRAIN & disease, lung disBODY ease, and liver disease. If we focus on these comorbidities, especially in the senior community, the nursing homes, and long-termcare facilities, we can significantly reduce the negative outcomes of Covid-19. The easiest way to lose weight is to stop eating at night and go to bed early. I recommend eating only from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and sleeping from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. or eating from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and sleeping from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. The hours before midnight are important for quality sleep because your circadian rhythms are dictated by the sunlight. You can lose weight by focusing on when you eat, instead of always focusing on what you eat. Another way to lose weight is to stop using electronics at night. That stimulates cortisol, the stress hormone, which will in turn increase belly fat. Your activities that involve screen time, such as TV, tablet, computer, video games, and cell phones, should be done during daytime hours to maximize weight loss. If you have to use your computer at night for your job, invest in blue light filter glasses that will reduce the harmful effects of blue light exposure at night. The easiest way to help with diabetes is to eliminate sugar. When looking at ingredients, understand that added sugars go by many different names such as corn sweetener, corn syrup, fructose, glucose, sucrose, maltose, malt syrup, trehalose, high fructose corn syrup, and honey.

Not only is it important to eliminate sugar, but also eliminate sugar replacements. Also, to prevent diabetes or reverse diabetes, exercise every day and avoid foods high in starch such as cornmeal, cereals, pretzels, flours, rice, crackers, oats, noodles, bread, tortillas, pastries, desserts, muffins, corn, cookies, and cake. Eating healthy can help prevent diabetes and obesity, especially if it is combined with lots of physical exercise. Moreover, consistently exercising will also help prevent the third comorbidity for Covid-19, which is heart disease. As far as heart disease, you must start exercising to the point where your heart starts to beat a little faster and you start to sweat a little bit. It is important to do aerobic exercises, as well as weight resistance exercises. Sitting too much during the day can also increase chances of heart disease so make sure you get up every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds. Reducing emotional stress also helps to prevent heart disease. Stress has such an impact on heart disease that the most common time for a heart attack is Monday at 9 a.m. Therefore, make sure you pick a career you love, get out of bad relationships, and live in an enjoyable place with a supportive community. I also suggest practicing stress reducing habits such as mindfulness, meditation, exercising, journaling, breathing, or tai chi. Then there's liver disease. The liver helps to detoxify you of harmful things that enter your body such as alcohol, over-the-counter medicine, vitamins, supplements, recreational drugs, and prescription drugs. If you eat a lot of fish with high mercury, and you drink water with lead and fluoride, and have a lot of aluminum which is found in cans, pans, foils, the sky, and antiperspirants, your liver may be overtaxed. Citrus fruits such as grapefruit,

lemon and lime help to detoxify the liver and help prevent bad outcomes from Covid exposure. Address lung disease if you would like to decrease your chances of dying from this novel coronavirus. When people think about lung disease they usually associate it with smoking cigarettes. Not only does smoking cigarettes cause lung disease but it also causes heart disease and makes your blood clot. If you are on the birth control pill and you smoke, the consequences are even worse. Avoid smoking cigarettes and Ecigs, vaporizers, and hookah, which may have lots of artificial chemicals that can damage your lungs as well. Other factors that have a negative impact on your lungs are mold exposure, pollution, allergies, autoimmune disease, and poor posture. Easy ways to clear the lungs are steam therapy, chest percussion, green tea, exercise, draining mucus from the lungs, and eating anti-inflammatory foods such as green leafy vegetables, fruits, almonds, walnuts, sardines, and olive oil. In addition, buy highly producing oxygen plants such as snake plants, spider plants, and aloe vera for your home. The last group that gets fatal outcomes with Covid-19 are the immunocompromised. These people might be born with a compromised immune system or it may have been caused by medications such as chemotherapy and radiation that treat patients for cancer. The immunocompromised must be meticulous as far as hand washing and not touching their faces. They should be doing more than socially distancing and having great ventilation because research has shown droplets or particles containing Covid-19 can actually travel a lot more than 6 feet. If you have to visit an immunocompromised person, make sure you wear a N95 mask and wash your

hands before entering their house, but it is better if you only visit outside the home. Also if you have been recently vaccinated with live vaccines such as the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), rotavirus, chicken pox, shingles, or influenza, do not visit or go near any immunocompromised people due to the risk of shedding. In addition, do not let anyone visit who has not recently tested negative for Covid-19. It is recommended that the immunocompromised stay at home so they do not get exposed to the virus and only let trusted family members help with any necessary errands. There are a few other easy tips that you can follow to avoid getting bad outcomes from coronavirus. The four best preventative measures to be taken are vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc, and Quercetin. Researchers have discovered that people who have vitamin D deficiencies have significantly increased changes of death if exposed to Covid-19. Make sure you go outside everyday for at least 20 minutes between noon and 2 p.m., when the sunlight is strongest, to maximize your vitamin D levels. Eat oysters, which are high in zinc, and lots of cantaloupe, broccoli and oranges, which are high in vitamin C. If you supplement, I recommend only using high quality companies such as Apex Energetics, but you must go through your doctor to get it. Besides washing your hands frequently with soap and water and getting daily sunlight, another easy tool to

help prevent Covid-19 problems is drinking water frequently. Your gut is a large part of your immune system, so drinking lots of water frequently will help you to defeat harmful viruses and bacteria. Now is the time to boost your immune system and get as healthy as possible, so when you do get exposed to new viruses or bacteria, you can fight it off. The biggest lesson we can learn from this pandemic is that we have to take control of our health.

FREE SPECIAL OFFERS! ACT NOW! If you are looking to boost your immune system, want to reduce anxiety, want to improve your memory, want to improve your energy, and want to get better sleep, we are offering FREE neurological consults either in person at my Emerson office or virtually via telemedicine to the first seven people that mention this article. Email me at info@kaplanbrainandbody.com or call (201) 2612150 to reserve a spot. You can also visit my website at www.kaplandc.com or subscribe to my YouTube channel, “Kaplan Brain and Body,” to get access to educational videos to help you to function better, feel better, and live better. Dr. Kaplanʼs article is provided as sponsored content. Consult your physician with any health, medicine, or diet concerns and before making any changes to your health routine.

PASCACK VALLEY

Ask the Dentist: Dental implants - Age limit? Question: I was wondering if there is age limit for a person to have dental implant. - J. P., Rivervale, NJ

Answer: Fortunately, age by itself does not limit a personʼs ability to have a dental implant. In fact, one of our patients who was 97 at the time, requested and successfully had an implant placed at our office. Although age is not a factor, some issues, which go along with aging need to be examined when planning for implant and other oral surgical procedures. Overall health characteristics including blood pressure, diabetes and allergies should be evaluated. Medications taken by the patient also need to be reviewed. Blood thinners and use of baby aspirin (81mg) may be adjusted prior to implant procedures and antibiotics may be prescribed prior to surgical ROBERT H. GULLER, D.M.D OF PASCACK DENTAL ARTS

appointments in some cases. Medications generally known as bisphosphonates (ex: Fosamax, Boniva, Actonel) which are given to patients in order to maintain bone density, can cause complications in the healing process following implant or extraction surgery. These drugs are given either by mouth or by injection. Patients taking these medications orally are at much lower risk for adverse effects than those given the injectable form. I find that patients on these medications are often not well informed as to the potential effects on healing of the jawbones. As with all medical and dental procedures, make sure that the doctor and staff are kept up to date as to changes in your health and changes in medications you may be taking. For questions about this or other dental information ask your dentist or contact Dr. Guller at askdrguller@aol.com or call (201) 391-5565

JANUARY 3, 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.

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

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211 Center Ave., Westwood • (201)666-7770

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

THE SAVVY SENIOR: How to Get Your Affairs in Order Dear Savvy Senior, I would like to get my personal, legal and financial information organized so my kids will know whatʼs going on when Iʼm no BY JIM MILLER longer around. Can you offer any tips on the best way to do this? — Unorganized Emma

Dear Emma, Organizing your important papers and getting your personal and financial affairs in order is a smart idea and wonderful gift to your loved ones. Here are some tips to get you started.

Get Organized The first step in getting your affairs in order is to gather up all your important personal, financial and legal information so you can arrange it in a format that will benefit you now, and your loved ones later. Then youʼll need to sit down

and create various lists of important information and instructions of how you want certain things handled when you die or if you become incapacitated. Hereʼs a checklist of areas you need to focus on. Personal information • Contacts: Make a master list of names and phone numbers of close friends, doctors, and professional advisers such as your lawyer, accountant, broker and insurance agent. information: • Medical Include a list of medications you take, along with any allergies and illnesses. • Personal documents: Include such items as your birth certificate, Social Security card, marriage license, military discharge papers, etc. • Secured places: List all the places you keep under lock and key such as safe deposit boxes, safe combination, security alarms, etc. • Digital assets: Make a list of all your digital assets, including everything from social media accounts to online banking accounts to home utilities that you

manage online. It should include usernames and passwords. Use the Rutgers Digital Assets Inventory Worksheet at njaes.rutgers.edu/money/pdfs/digital-assetsworksheet.pdf as a guide. • Pets: If you have a pet, give instructions for the care of the animal. • End of life: Indicate your wishes for organ and tissue donation and write out your funeral instructions. If youʼve made prearrangements with a funeral home include a copy of agreement, their contact information and whether youʼve prepaid or not. Legal documents • Will, trust and estate plan: Include the original copy of your will and other estate planning documents youʼve made. • Financial power of attorney: This document names someone you trust to handle money matters if youʼre incapacitated. • Advance health care directives: This includes a living will and medical power of attorney,

which spell out your wishes regarding your end-of-life medical treatment when you can no longer make decisions for yourself.

Financial records • Financial accounts: Make a list of all your bank accounts, brokerage and mutual fund accounts, and any other financial assets you have. • Debts and liabilities: Make a list of any loans, leases or debts you have – mortgages owed, car loans, student loans, medical bills, credit card debts. Also, make a list of all credit and charge cards, including the card numbers and contact information. • Company benefits: List any retirement plans, pensions or health benefits from your current or former employer including the contact information of the benefits administrator. • Insurance: List the insurance policies you have (life, long-term care, home, auto, Medicare, Medigap, prescription drug, etc.) including the policy numbers, agents, and

phone numbers. • Property: List real estate, vehicles and other properties you own, rent or lease and include documents such as deeds, titles, and loan or lease agreements. • Taxes: Include the location of your tax records and your tax preparerʼs contact information. Keep all your organized information and files together in one convenient location, ideally in a fireproof filing cabinet or safe in your home. Also be sure to review and update it every year, and donʼt forget to tell your kids where they can find it. If you need help, get a copy of “Get It Together: Organize Your Records So Your Family Wonʼt Have To” at Nolo.com for $17.50 for the downloadable versions, or $20 for a printed copy. 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 registration at 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.

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JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

WCL: Borough wants setback boost in Park Ridge development at the Sony site and asked for borough help. He said an email sent to Misciagna that said the development was likely to have “significant impacts” to residents of the Clairmont Drive and Wyandermere Drive neighborhoods in Woodcliff Lake. He said that email and an appearance at a Park Ridge meeting were not well received by Park Ridge officials. He said the new reduced property setback distance being allowed via Park Ridge zoning for the complex was a problem. He said current Park Ridge zoning sets a 100-foot setback from Woodcliff Lake.

FROM PAGE 7

However the new setback for a multifamily, inclusionary development is only 30 feet, LaRose said. He said Park Ridge also allows 10 feet for a deck, making the setback between Park Ridge and homes in Woodcliff Lake only 20 feet. Woodcliff Lake officials noted that the setbacks are set by new zoning adopted by the Park Ridge council and Planning Board for the court-approved affordable housing settlement. LaRose said those changes were approved by the Planning Board in September 2021. He said residents were interested in preserving a 100-foot buffer between the two communitiesʼ borders, noting the buffer

WESTWOOD REGIONAL

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION STARTS JAN. 4

The Westwood Regional School District opens online kindergarten registration for the 2022–2023 school year on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022. This is a pre-registration only; students will not be considered enrolled until parents/guardians submit the required documentation at an in-

person registration appointment. Your child must reside in the Borough of Westwood or Township of Washington and be 5 on or before Oct. 1, 2021 to enter Kindergarten next September. For more information, visit the “student registration” section of the district website, wwrsd.org.

Club News? We are the Pascack Valley’s hometown newspaper! Let us help promote your club or organization. Send your news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or mail to: Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

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serves as a stormwater swale. However, he said they were “rebuffed” by land use boards in Park Ridge and appealed for council assistance. Schettino said the changes that were made were approved several months ago and thereʼs only a limited period to challenge zoning changes related to Park Ridgeʼs affordable settlement. LaRose said construction on Montvaleʼs site has begun but nothing has yet been built on the Park Ridge site. Schettino said individual towns can set their own setbacks and must comply with a staterequired zero increase in runoff volume post development. He said to get Park Ridgeʼs setback changed, Woodcliff Lakeʼs council would have to authorize litigation to be filed against Park Ridge. Schettino said it was “unlike-

ly” that Woodcliff Lake could successfully challenge a 30-foot setback limit in Park Ridge. Rendo said the 448-unitsʼ design and placement must still be heard before its Planning Board, where Woodcliff Lake might challenge the developmentʼs impacts. Rendo said he believed building heights and setbacks could be challenged before the Park Ridge Planning Board. He said a public notice must be sent to all property owners within 200 feet of the 448-unit inclusionary development. Higgins claimed the nearby areas would be “avalanched” by water if large, mature trees were removed. LaRose said they did not want to stop the development but have “an appropriate buffer” of at least 60 feet. Councilman Stephen Falan-

ga said the reason the setback was so small was because Fair Share Housing Center required “excessive set-asides for our communities in the Pascack Valley” for affordable and marketrate units. He called for pressing legislators in Trenton to change the current affordable housing system that uses Superior Courts and developers to provide affordable housing statewide. LaRose said he was not against affordable housing, but instead the “density” of the projects approved. Rendo said Park Ridge challenged the inclusionary, high-density development “as best as they could” on the Sony property. However, LaRose pressed the council to call for an “appropriate setback” between the two towns.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

IHA scores a field hockey program

Immaculate Heart Academy is excited to announce the launch of the schoolʼs first field hockey program. IHAʼs field hockey team will start competing in the fall season on a junior varsity schedule, with plans to launch a varsity team in the 2023 season. The school is looking to hire a coach for the inaugural team. According to John Downey, IHA director of athletics, prospective families have been inquiring about starting a field hockey team at IHA for many years. “It is important for our

Athletic Department to open up new opportunities for our families and to grow with the times.” He added, “We feel honored to be able to offer another avenue for our student-athletes to become even more involved in the Immaculate Heart community.” For decades, Immaculate Heart Academy has been recognized as an athletic powerhouse with student-athletes winning numerous league, county, state sectional, and state championships in a variety of sports. Field hockey will be the 16th sport offered to current students at

Immaculate Heart Academy. Jason Schlereth, IHA president, said he is thrilled about the addition of field hockey to the innovative programming already offered at Immaculate Heart Academy. “As we continue to be on the cutting edge of programming for our students, whether it is academically, in the arts, or in athletics, we are so excited to add field hockey to our athletic program.” For more information or to inquire about the field hockey coach position, write jdowney@ihanj.com.

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As the weather gets colder and snow forecasts become frequent, PSE&G encourages its customers to take time now and prepare for bad weather before winter storms hit. “Snow itself usually isnʼt a major issue but strong winds and ice buildup can bring down power lines,” said Paul Toscarelli, emergency preparedness director. “We encourage customers to familiarize themselves with winter preparation tips and always think safety first in severe weather.” PSE&G said in a press release on Nov. 23 that it prepares yearround for extreme weather to maintain reliable service for our customers. “The utility has made significant infrastructure investments, including more than $1.7 billion in electric projects and approximately $821 million in gas projects from June 2020 to June 2021. The investments have strengthened the system so that fewer customers experience outages and, when they do occur, the duration is shorter, especially during extreme weather,” the statement read. One major effort this year involved adding more smart devices across the state to bolster safety, resiliency and reliability. In particular, PSE&G recommends customers focus on the following safety and energy savings tips. Winter safety tips: • Have your heating system checked by a professional before operating, particularly if you experienced flooding recently. An overheated boiler or furnace can lead to

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injury and/or explosion. • Chimneys and vents for gas appliances must be cleared following a major snow or ice storm to enable proper venting and prevent carbon monoxide accumulation. • Make sure that snow does not block exhaust from a sidewall vent; otherwise, it could shut down or block heating equipment and dryer exhaust, allowing fumes containing carbon monoxide to build up. • Accumulation of ice or snow can interfere with the proper operation of your gas metering system. The meter assembly may contain a regulator that is designed to safely release pressurized gas in the event of a malfunction. Blocking the regulator vent could create an unsafe condition where gas is not able to escape from internal piping. • Snow and ice can damage gas meters and piping. Be careful when removing snow from around the gas meter; any damage to the gas meter could potentially create a possible leak hazard. • Use a broom to keep the gas meter, pressure regulator, and vent piping clear of snow and ice during the winter season. • Chimneys and vents should be protected using an approved cap or screen to keep small animals or insects from entering. These pests have been known to build nests inside chimneys or vents and can cause potentially hazardous conditions. • Inspect and clean dryer vents to ensure they are clear of debris, lint and condensation, which can become a fire hazard especially in the winter when drying heavier clothing and bedding. • Do not store propane tanks or any other highly flammable gas/liquid in your home, as they can become extremely hazardous in the event of a fire. • If you smell a gas odor outside, please call 1-800-880-7734 (PSEG) from a neighbor's home and remain outside until PSE&G

arrives. • Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Stay at least 30 feet away from downed wires, and donʼt go near the pole or anything touching the line. Immediately contact PSE&G, at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734) via mobile app or our website, to report downed wires and dial 911 if an immediate hazard exists. • Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed electrical wires. Don't drive over – and don't stand near – downed wires. • Downed wires can potentially be hidden in standing water. If you encounter large pools of standing water, stop, back up and choose another path. • To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, do not run any gasolinepowered generators in a garage or any other enclosed space. If you are on life-sustaining medical equipment, ensure that you alert PSE&G in advance and notify your local police and fire departments. For more information, visit pseg.com/life.

Winter energy savings tips to lower your bill: • Lower your thermostat: Home heating is the largest user of energy and offers the greatest opportunity for savings. Lowering the thermostat by just one degree can reduce your heating bill by up to 3%. • Use your blinds: Open your curtains and blinds that face the sun on sunny days to warm your home, and close them at night to keep the warm air inside. • Check your heating system: Check for sufficient water levels in the sight glass for steam heating systems to ensure maximum efficiency. Replace the filter on your warm air furnace heating system. Remove any debris around your heating system. • Caulk out the cold:caulk gaps in window and door frames

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REAL ESTATE Mayor: Rendo calls for affordable housing changes next governor. Meanwhile, affordable housing and concerns about traffic and development are sure to come up at the next annual “Breakfast with the Greater Pascack Valley Mayors,” sponsored by the Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce, at the Iron Horse in Westwood on Wednesday, Jan. 26 at 8 a.m. The mayors of all 10 towns in the Greater Pascack Valley are invited to present their annual town updates over breakfast. Itʼs open to the public. Each mayor or their representative from Montvale, Park Ridge, Woodcliff Lake, River Vale, Old Tappan, Hillsdale, Washington Township, Westwood, Emerson, and Oradell will answer questions submitted by Chamber members

FROM PAGE 1

and other attendees. Tickets may be purchased at p a s c a c k c h a m b e r. o r g / e v e n t details/breakfast-with-the-mayors or by contacting Robin Malley at (201) 666-0777 or GPVCOC@gmail.com. Rendo, a Republican, said area mayors need to “join together” to look at local and regional impacts of development on quality of life issues such as traffic congestion. He said a regional traffic study — for possible use in informing and defending against future high-density affordable developments — should be a priority for area mayors. And we hear from local officials and others that something done to limit what has been described by critics as a broken system that allows builders to sue — and win — over the right to build high-density housing to sat-

isfy courtimposed affordable obligations. “Itʼs getting out of control throughout the entire county and it is being RENDO driven by the Fair Share Housing Center,” Rendo recently told Pascack Press. Fair Share Housing Center is a non-profit that advocates for affordable housing statewide, including as intervenor in most Mount Laurel affordable settlements decided by state Superior Courts. He said developmentsʼ “ancillary impacts” include added traffic and stormwater, though state stormwater regulations currently require a no-net increase in runoff

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on any new development. Asked who should initiate an area traffic study, Rendo suggested Bergen County should work with the countyʼs 70 towns “to look at the impacts of all the developments coming in.” While traffic is an ongoing concern, most affordable housing settlements do not allow traffic impacts to be used as a legally defensible rationale to block an affordable project. Rendo said affordable housing obligations were being forced on the people of New Jersey and a study should be done “to reduce the size and scope” of such housing. Rendo said he was not against affordable housing, just affordable housing that does not fit with a townʼs character. An affordable unit means a sales price or rent for a dwelling that is within the means of:

• Moderate-Income Household (i.e., making 50% to 80% of the regional income limit); • Low-Income Household (i.e., making less than 50% of the regional income limit); and • Very-Low-Income Household (i.e., making less than 30% of the regional income limit). One of the strongest and loudest complaints against affordable housing mandates in New Jersey—and particularly in Bergen County, the stateʼs most densely populated county — is that it leads to overdevelopment. On its website, https://fairsharehousing.org, FSHC says “The Mount Laurel Doctrine has led to the development of over 60,000 affordable housing units outside New Jerseyʼs racially and economically segregated urban centers.” In May 2021 we interviewed FSHC executive director Adam M. Gordon, who said in part, “Too often when people are opposed to ʻoverdevelopmentʼ what they really mean is that they should close the doors after they moved in,” Gordon said. He added, “As the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice has compellingly pointed out, ʻWealth in New Jersey is designed by race, with the median net wealth for white families at $352,000 — the highest in America — but just $6,100 for Black families, and $7,300 for Latina/Latino families, respectively.ʼ” Gordon said Pascack Valley towns, as in much of the state, have been mixed: “Towns … have taken productive approaches to affordable housing and towns have fought tooth and nail for decades.” He said, “Weʼre proud of the work weʼve done to help bring more than 330 towns into compliance, including those in the Pascack Valley, to tackle the scourge of exclusionary zoning and the socioeconomic and racial segregation it causes.” Gordon said, “We believe that as many of these homes continue to be built, that the sky will not fall, much as generations ago Harrington Park survived when now-Sen. Cory Booker [the first

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African American U.S. senator from New Jersey] and his family moved there.” While most municipalities in the Garden State, and all eight we cover in Pascack Valley, have settled their affordable housing obligation through 2025, local officials have started calling for changes in the 1985 state law that mandates affordable housing obligations. Some critics, including former District 39 Assemblywoman, and now state Senator, Holly Schepisi, have alleged that the FSHC has ties to developers. Several area mayors went to Trenton recently to plead their case against court-ordered highdensity housing to help fulfill affordable obligations. In summer 2018, Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali spoke before a state Assembly legislative committee and called for the reinstatement of so-called “regional contribution agreements” while Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna railed against high-density development ordered by courts at the same hearing on affordable housing. Previously RCAs allowed “sending” suburban towns to provide agreed-upon payments for up to 50 percent of their affordable obligations to “receiving” urban

FROM PAGE 24

areas to help those areas improve their housing stock. They were outlawed in 2008 for going against the Mount Laurel doctrine that called for affordable housing to be built throughout all New Jersey communities. In 2018, Ghasssali told Pascack Press then that race “has nothing to do with” affordable

housing after a Fair Share Housing Center representative had referred to the low percentage of African-Americans residing in certain towns, including Montvale and Park Ridge. Ghassali said that Montvale is home to families from at least 44 nations of origin. At the 2018 hearing, suggest-

EMERSON

Kids, you could be a Snow Buddy!

The Borough of Emerson is seeking high school students, Boy and Girl Scouts and other volunteers who would like to participate in our Snow Buddies program by helping our Emerson seniors with snow shoveling this winter. Volunteers will earn community service hours for helping a senior in need. All volunteers will be recognized at a mayor and council meeting at the end of the season. If you are interested in helping your neighbors or are a senior interested in registering for snow shoveling assistance, visit emersonnj.org and complete the regis-

ed reforms included reinvigorating the Council on Affordable Housing; restarting the use of “regional contribution agreements”; and ending “builderʼs remedy” lawsuits, a process created by New Jerseyʼs Supreme Court that allows a builder to sue a municipality that has not met its affordable housing obligation. If a builder wins, the builder must provide one affordable unit for every five units built, often leading to high-density developments to help a town meet its affordable obligations. Other suggestions then included increasing the ratio of

affordable units that must be built along with “market-rate” units to 30% (from 20%) to reducing the number of total units to be built; and implementing a moratorium on affordable housing obligations until the Legislature develops new rules. None of the reforms were adopted. Rendo was the Republican ticketʼs 2017 nominee for Lieutenant Governor, running with gubernatorial candidate Kim Guadagno, who lost to Murphy in the 2017 race, 56% to 42%. — With John Snyder

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JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Mayor: Rendo calls for affordable housing changes REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Reporter’s Notebook: Mike Olohan on the year that was mayor and township attorney said this was not a conflict and that negotiations occurred with the Archdiocese of Newark, not the church itself. Two new developments — both with affordable housing components — were approved and will bring 110 rental apartments, townhomes and single-family homes to two sites off of Van Emburgh Avenue. Another eightunit luxury townhome development on Gorga Place (off Washington Avenue) was also approved, bringing increased population and traffic. Another Washington Township story dominating headlines

FROM PAGE 9

was the township's efforts to purchase the 6.4-acre Washington Township Swim and Recreation Club. After Councilman Michael DeSena changed his vote from a no to a yes, the six-member council voted, 5–1, to bond for $1 million to make an offer that most thought Swim Club bond holders would approve. However, shockingly, the bond holders rejected the townshipʼs offer and bidder identified as “summer camp” was said to be in talks to purchase the muchsought-after property. As details emerge about the “summer camp” bid/entity — and whether this deal goes through — we will continue to report on this. After losing the swim club

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bid, township officials made a $430,000 offer on a 3.2-acre tract at 450 Pascack Road, an elongated wooded buffer between Ridgewood Boulevard East homesʼ backyards and Memorial Field and Washington Elementary School. Possible property uses mentioned include expanded parking for the nearby public school and recreational field and preservation of the propertyʼs tree canopy. No public discussion has yet occurred about what the township intends to do with 450 Pascack Road, as opposed to public debate and mayoral Facebook postings that addressed the swim club offer. Apparently, purchase negotiations are ongoing between town attorney Kenneth Poller and 450 Pascackʼs attorney. Should negotiations fail, Poller told us in March that the township has “more than enough justification for condemnation” to acquire the property. Another ongoing story involving Woodcliff Lake, Park Ridge and Hillsdale focuses on a long-proposed 1.5-mile Woodcliff Lake Reservoir Nature Trail, which most mayors believe they gave final approval to in 2019 but Suez contends that final agreements regarding public safety and

trail maintenance and security still need ironing out. A long-running controversy over the Pascack Valley Regional District BOEʼs unanimous June 2020 decision to “retire” the Pascack Hills H.S. Cowboy and Pascack Valley H.S. Indian popped up in public comments in 2021, during school-wide votes to select the Pascack Hills Broncos and Pascack Valley Panthers as new mascots. In June 2020, the board determined the old mascots were noninclusive and offensive following a heated meeting and declined to reconsider despite numerous public appeals, including two letters signed by the four sending townsʼ mayors (Montvale, Woodcliff Lake, Hillsdale and River Vale) requesting the board to reconsider and be more transparent in future major decisions. During debate over costs for rebranding, where three estimates were discussed, trustees approved $172,000 for incorporating the new mascots. Later in 2021, school-wide votes were held to allow each school to select a new logo for their mascot. Also, departing in 2021 were both regional school superintendents in Pascack Valley. Pascack

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Valley Districtʼs P. Erik Gundersen and Westwood Regional Districtʼs Raymond González both left their respective districts this year and searches are underway for replacements. The search for permanent replacements is under way. The Emerson Station or “Block 419” Project has been the subject of several court filings as the developer and borough have locked legal horns: the developer claims the borough has obstructed its construction plans, suing Emerson and its mayor. It also claimed the borough did not want to build affordable housing agreed to in 2019 as part of Emerson Station. In response, the borough denied all the developerʼs claims, charging the developer has no evidence to support any claims. The borough claims the developer reneged on paying $500,000 in construction services to build a new ambulance corps after the borough deeded the former ambulance property to the Block 419 developer. However, in March the borough was ordered by Superior Court to work with developer, CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

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Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal LLC, to initiate construction work to expedite the constriction of 29 affordable apartment units as agreed to under its courtapproved 2019 settlement agreement. What will happen with Emersonʼs Armenian Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, a large tract of land near borough hall, remains uncertain following the transition of all its residents to other nursing homes. Late this year, nursing home officials would not comment on future plans. In River Vale and Montvale, two school bond referendums were mostly approved. In April, River Vale voters approved most of a $35.7 million bond referendum, rejecting only $1.7 million for wellness centers. On Dec. 14, Montvale voters okayed a $29.4 million bond vote to improve facilities, including HVAC systems, classrooms, and restrooms. Also, Hillsdaleʼs school board is conducting its due diligence to determine whether it can replace George G. White Middle School by building a modern middle school across the street from the nearly 100-year-old school. Initial replacement estimates range from $65 million to $75 million, with a likely board decision by March to meet a timetable for a March 2023 bond referendum vote. River Vale attempted to rebid a scaled down mini-golf project at township-owned River Vale Country Club, which initially drew a lone $2.89 million bid in 2019. Upon its re-bid in March, the bid was $1,639,000 to build a similar course with fewer amenities. That bid was rejected by council and no plans for another course have been proposed. River Vale revealed a future Public Safety Complex on 3.25 acres at Rivervale Road and Prospect Avenue will cost about $14 million, noting a 40-year bond appeared likely. Annual property tax hits were previously estimated at $175 to $200, though the township administrator said tax revenues from 225 under-construction townhomes at the Fairways at Edgewood may reduce the Public Safety Complexʼs final tax bite. Although New Jersey voters approved marijuana legalization 2 to 1 in November 2020, as did PV voters, and some Pascack towns

FROM PAGE 26

briefly pondered the six types of cannabis businesses, our eight towns opted out of cannabis in all its forms by the stateʼs Aug. 21 deadline. Had the towns not opted out, their non-action would have allowed cannabis licenses in certain areas. However, although the towns opted out of cannabis, towns may now opt in at any time to the state-approved cannabis businesses by approving it and rezoning a specific area. Applications for the stateʼs first-ever recreational cannabis shops will be accepted by the state Cannabis Regulatory Commission starting March 15. Statewide, medical dispensaries may opt to sell recreational marijuana if they have enough product to accommodate both medical patients and recreational consumers. In Woodcliff Lake, a second proposal to build 53 rental apartments at 188 Broadway — the first proposal was for 60 rental units — was rejected unanimously by the Zoning Board of Adjustment, citing the legal principle or “res judicata,” a Latin phrase for “the thing has been judged.” Zoners decided the 53-unit proposal was similar to the 60-unit proposal they rejected in 2019, though the 2021 proposal had seven less units and a second building proposed did not require a height variance. The applicant, 188 Broadway LLC, has filed an appeal. Currently, local planners are working with a consultant to update its Master Plan, last fully updated in 2002. Also, in a first, after Gov. Phil Murphyʼs approval, the state initiated early General Election voting starting nine days before Nov. 2. Bergen County offered nine earlyvoting locations including two PV towns: River Vale and Woodcliff Lake. Moreover, county elections officials said vote-by-mail ballots more than doubled this year after 2020ʼs mandated mail-in voting due to the pandemic. They said more voters found mail-in ballots convenient and easy-to-use and signed up for mail-in voting in 2021. Most towns received substantial chunks of federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) dollars, half provided in 2021 and the final half in 2022. After guidance on spending the funds was received, some towns made plans to spend the CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

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The River Vale Girl Scout Troop 97113 coat drive was a success! The troop consists of 16 5th graders from Woodside School. Members are starting work on their Bronze Award, which is the highest award for service available to earn by Junior Girl Scouts. This year, the collection of coats, hats, gloves and scarves followed the town menorah and

Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, with drops made at town hall and Woodside Elementary School. The girls collected more than 400 coats, plus boxes full of hats, gloves, and scarves. Said Jamie Alexander, speaking for the troop, “What a generous community we have! Donations were made across several organiza-

tions, including the Bergen County Human Services Center, Emmanuel Christian Church, HeadStart, JerseyCares, and directly to families impacted by the recent tornadoes in Kentucky. The girls have learned so much through this experience and are really seeing the impact they can have in their community.”

Donations to go! River Vale Girl Scout Troop 97113 and some of their haul, which will help those in need this winter.

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Henry ZICCHINO

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OBITUARIES Mary Jo AMATO

Henry “Tony” Zicchino, 84, Ellen “Nellie” Roche, 81, of Woodcliff Lake and formerly of of Woodcliff Lake passed away Franklin Lakes, passed peaceful- on Christmas Day 2021.

Mary Jo Amato, 64, of Hillsdale passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 24, 2021.

ly at home surrounded by family on Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021. Born and raised in Cloone, Co. Leitrim, Ireland, Nellie came to the United States in 1958 living in the Inwood section of Manhattan before moving to Dumont in 1967. Nellie and Joe moved to Woodcliff Lake in 1976, Franklin Lakes in 1993, and returned to Woodcliff Lake in 2014. Nellie started working at Stasnyʼs Inn in 1971 and ultimately Nellie and Joe founded Nellieʼs Place in 1989. Nellie was a long standing member of the Bergen Irish Association. She had a philanthropic soul that extended to everyone she knew. Nellie is survived by her loving husband, Joe; her six children, Joseph Roche, Patricia Sunar (Hal), Claire Metzler, Karen Schultz (Eugene), Christopher Roche (Carolyn), and Erin Trick (David); her 14 grandchildren, Daryl, Chris, Tiffany, Kyle, Connor, Devin, Austin, Samantha, Maryellen, Collin, William, Carter, Abigail, and James; and one great-granddaughter, Katie. She is also survived by two siblings, Claire Cox and Kevin Reynolds, along with countless nieces and nephews around the globe. Nellie was predeceased by her parents and eight of her 10 siblings. A Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Lukeʼs Church, HoHo-Kus. Entombment, Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah. In lieu of flowers, donations in Nellieʼs memory can be made to the Eastern Christian Childrenʼs Retreat, 700 Mountain Ave., Wyckoff, NJ 07481.

Beloved wife of Anthony. Devoted mother of Marc and Dana. Born in Englewood, she lived in Hillsdale for 45 years. Mary Jo was a scientist with Pfizer, Pearl River. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Church in Hillsdale. A Mass celebrating Mary Joʼs life and faith was held at St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, Hillsdale. Interment, Westwood Cemetery, Westwood.

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Tony is survived by his beloved wife of almost 65 years, Joan (née Hake); his sons Edward (Sue) and his children Dylon (Alexa), Ambria (Michael) and Campbell; Vincent and his children Anthony Edward (Regina), Dana Miller (Christopher); Stephen (Karen) and Phillip (Amanda) and his children Anthony, Samantha, Erin and Henry Philip; his greatgranddaughter Hazel; as well as his brother Joseph (Amy) and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He is predeceased by his dear grandson, Henry Thomas. Tony was heavily active in his community, belonging to the Woodcliff Lake Seniors and Westwood Elks, as well as volunteering over the years for Meals on Wheels, Valley Hospital, Park Ridge Police Reserves and TriBoro Ambulance Corps. He retired from a long career in the printing industry as a lithographer through the ALA Printers Union Local #1. Upon leaving the printing industry, Tony worked as a custodian for Pascack Valley High School in Hillsdale for almost 15 years. The family will receive guests for a memorial visitation at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Thursday, Jan. 6 from 3 to 7 p.m., with a Celebration of Life at 6:30 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made in Tonyʼs name to the Cat Crew Rescue in Oradell through paypal.me/catcrewrescue or venmo.com/u/catcrewrescue.

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Alwin QUIRAND

Alwin Quirand, 88, of the Township of Washington and formerly of Hawley, Pennsylvania, and Moonachie, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021. Born in Antohovka, Poland, to the late Daniel and Ottiele Quirand. Before retiring, Alwin was a millwright mechanic for Maxwell House in Hoboken. Beloved husband of 67 years to Adele (née Bohl) Quirand. Devoted father of Dr. Erwin Quirand and his late wife Noreen, Irene Messina and her husband Felix, and Sylvia Zozulia and her husband Michael. Dear brother of the late Else Friede. Loving grandfather of Matthew Quirand and his wife Katherine, Daniel Quirand, Philip Messina, Courtney Zozulia and Kristen Zozulia. Interment, Redeemer Cemetery, Mahwah.

Margaret C. HILLMAN

Margaret C. Hillman (née Wagner), 95, of Hasbrouck Heights, formerly of Park Ridge and Maywood, passed away on Friday, Dec. 24, 2021. She was born in New York City to the late Catherine and William Wagner. Before retiring, Margaret was a mail handler for the U.S. Post Office in South Hackensack. After retirement, she worked alongside her sister and nephew at The Flower Peddler in Nanuet as a floral designer. Beloved wife of the late James Hillman. Devoted mother of Margaret “Meg” Hillman-Scalone and her husband George and the late Diane Hillman and Gary Hillman. Dear sister of the late William and Joseph Wagner and Anna Mae Weiser. Loving grandmother of Melissa Gordon, Michael, John, Christopher and Justin Hillman, and Mary Scalone. Cherished great-grandmother of Autumn Gordon. The Mass at Corpus Christi R.C. Church and the interment following at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus, were private. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions to the Hasbrouck Heights Food Pantry would be appreciated.

Peter W. RICE

Peter W. Rice, 88, of Mahwah, formerly of Westwood, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021. Born in New York City to the late Elizabeth and Frank Rice, Peter was an Air Force veteran of the Korean War, serving 1950–1953. He attended New York University. Peter was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and Notre Dame football. Before retiring, Peter worked for CitiCorp Mortgage in Woodcliff Lake and previously he was assistant treasurer for Chase Manhattan Bank in New York City. Beloved husband of Jane (née Davis) Rice. Devoted father of Peter W. Rice Jr. and his wife Christie and Thomas P. Rice and his partner David Long. Dear brother of the late Margie Pinto and Frank Rice. Loving grandfather of Meghan and Brian. Cherished uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Christopher E. DOLAN

Christopher E. Dolan, 59, of Westwood passed away suddenly on Monday, Dec. 20, 2021. Chris is survived by his beloved wife, Kim; his children Evelyn and Christopher; his father James; his brothers James and his wife Glynis, John, and Richard; as well as many nieces, nephews, coworkers and friends. He is predeceased by his mother Rosemary, his sisters Mary Rose Cote and Kathleen Dolan-Giorgini, and his nephew Patrick Dolan. Born in Westwood, Chris was a Motion Picture Electrician and union member of Local #52 IATSE NYC for over 40 years. He worked on such movies as “Wall Street” and “Black Rain” in his younger years, and later on television shows including “Oz,” “Damages,” and more recently “Wu-Tang: An American Saga.” His greatest joy was celebrating his childrenʼs successes. He was so very proud of them in every way. Chris loved to tell a story and to hear a good story. Repeating them and sharing them was his specialty! He truly had the Irish gift of gab! His vegetable garden was his passion. He enjoyed sharing the fruit of his labors with friends and neighbors. He was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and Giants. He loved to spend time at his second home on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire and at ORA in Melbourne Beach, Florida. A Mass celebrating Chrisʼ life and faith was held at St. Andrewʼs R.C. Church in Westwood. Memorial contributions can be made in Chrisʼ name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

James F. OATES

James F. Oates Sr., 88, of Emerson passed away on Saturday, Dec. 25, 2021. Beloved husband of late Suzanne Theresa Oates. Devoted father of Colleen Merkel and her husband Ronald Jr., James Francis Oates Jr. and his wife Jean, Kerry Butkera and her husband Gary, and Tara Oates. Loving grandfather of Mackenzie, Aidan, James, Kayla, Sean Patrick, Hunter and Tyler. Cherished great-grandfather of Hudson. A Funeral Mass celebrating Jamesʼ life and faith was held at Church of the Assumption, Emerson. Interment, George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus.

PASCACK VALLEY

Railway buffs to gather Jan. 14

Theyʼre back! The Bergen Rockland National Railway Historical Society hosts a rail-oriented event and a discussion of railroad events and local railroad news at its monthly meeting: Friday, Jan. 14. at 8 p.m. at the Closter Senior Center, 4 Lewis St.

This monthʼs meeting presentation, from the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, is about historic equipment that the Bergen-Rockland Club has helped the museum to restore. It also focuses on a review of winning photos from the chapter's 2020-2021 photo con-

test.

The meeting is open to all at no charge. Anyone interested in railroading's history and future is welcome. For more information call Rich Harrington at (845) 6237634.

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. FROM PAGE 8

RIVER VALE 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org • Are you a tea lover or just getting started and want to taste and learn? Join the libraryʼs Tea Club! Sign up each month to receive a sample of a different variety of tea. The pick for January is Organic Lemon Ginger Herbal Tea from Steep. Pick up begins Jan. 3. River Vale residents only. Registration required. • Catch the film “Stillwater” (R, 2021) at the libraryʼs Movie Matinee on Tuesday, Jan. 4 from 1 to 3 p.m. Space is limited. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. All participants must sign a hold-harmless agreement. • The Mahjong Club will meet the first and third Tuesdays at the library, starting Jan. 4, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Bring friends or come alone and find new partners. Adult players only. Remember to bring your 2021 mahjong card and your own mahjong tiles, if possible. No need to sign up—just come enjoy the game! Masks required. All participants must sign a hold harmless agreement (if not previously signed). • Virtual Chair Yoga meets via Zoom on Thursday, Jan. 6 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. This gentle form of yoga is designed 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 • The library is currently closed for indoor services through Jan. 10. While the building is closed to the public, the library is operating via curbside and locker pickup, as well as home delivery. Call or visit the website for more information. • Chair Yoga with Jacki is returning in 2022, with sessions on the first and third Thursday of the month, February through April, and two class times to choose from: 11 a.m. or noon. Price for residents is $12 for the series; for non-residents, $30. Registration is required and takes place Jan. 6 by phone only. WESTWOOD 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org • In Global E-Pals, kids grades 3–5 connect with students from around the world to learn about their culture, practice writing, and improve social skills through letter writing. Meets monthly on Google Meet. Next date: Tuesday, Jan. 4 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Register online. • Peek-A-Book Story Time (to age 5) is every Wednesday in January, 10:30–11 a.m., at the library. Children will listen to stories, sing, dance, do fingerplays, review numbers, colors, animals and more. Register online. • In the libraryʼs Luminaria craft program, grades 2–5 learn about the history of luminaria— paper lanterns—around the world

grades K–3, is on Zoom Friday, Jan. 7, from 4 to 4:45 p.m. In this virtual program, kids create unique art with step-by-step instructions by professional artist Barbara Frieberg. Register online for Zoom link. • Friends of the Library Book Sale Saturday, Jan. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Back and in person on the second Saturday of the month. Books, magazines, DVDs and

more for great prices. Donations for the sale are collected Mondays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. • The next title in the Reading for Equity book discussion series is the “The Piano Lesson,” the 1987 play for which American playwright August Wilson received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The group meets on Zoom Monday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. Register for access.

On Tuesday, Jan. 4, reorganization meetings occur in Emerson, Hillsdale, Park Ridge, River Vale and Westwood. In Emerson, the Jan. 4 at 7:30 p.m. reorg meeting welcomes back incumbent Republican Brian Gordon and newcomer Kelly Moore, who defeated Democratic challengers Kate Stutzel and Michael DeOrio. In Hillsdale, the Jan. 4 meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. for sine die and reorg starts at 7 p.m. The reorg meeting welcomes back Republican incumbents John Escobar and Council President Abby Lundy, who ran uncontested in the Nov. 2 General Election. In Park Ridge, the Jan. 4 meeting at Borough Hall begins at

6 p.m. for sine die, and the reorg meeting starts at 6:15 p.m. On Nov. 2, 2021 incumbent Democrat councilmen Matthew Capilli and John Ferguson were reelected in an uncontested election. In River Vale, the Jan. 4 reorg meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. No mayor or council races occurred this year. Borough Clerk Karen Campanelli said there would be no sine die meeting. The meeting will be inperson only. In Westwood, the Jan. 4 sine die/reorg meeting will be in Borough Hall, not the Community Center as originally advertised, said borough clerk Karen Hughes. The sine die meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. and reorg meeting at 7. In a super-close race for a pair of three-year council seats, incumbent Cheryl Hodges, a Republican,

easily won reelection while incumbent Jodi Murphy, a Democrat, narrowly lost her first re-election bid to Republican GRECO Anthony Greco — by eight votes, at first, and nine following a recount. In Woodcliff Lake, the sine die/reorg meeting will be held Thursday, Jan. 6 at 7 p.m. via the Zoom platform. On Nov. 2, Democratic newcomer Jennifer Margolis and Democratic incumbent Jacqueline Gadaleta defeated Republican challengers Michael Casale and Dianna Cereijo. For complete 2021 election coverage, see our website.

Towns: Sine die, reorgs set FROM PAGE 1

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Library Calendar

and then make their own beautiful designs. In-person Wednesday, Jan. 5 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Register online. • Curious Minds (grades 1–3) on Google Meet Thursday, Jan. 6 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. In this monthly program, kids learn about bridges, airplanes, mummies, castles, space, and more. Register online. • 3D Art: Penguins, for

Huge help!

Reporter’s Notebook: dollars on infrastructure projects while others held the funds to further clarify what they might be spent on. As 2021 finished out, we covered the Nov. 2 General Election including the lone mayoral contest in Washington Township, where incumbent Mayor Peter Calamari narrowly beat back Independent councilman-challenger Michael DeSena, plus a slew of council races and local and regional school board races. In a Pascack Valley upset, voters overwhelmingly approved of Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli over incumbent Democrat Murphy. However, in Westwood, a majority of voters chose Murphy. Statewide, Murphy bested Ciattarelli by about 74,000 votes, or 3% of votes, while in Bergen County, Murphy and Lieut. Governor Sheila Oliver outpolled Ciattarelli and former Sen. Diane

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Allen 52.5% to 45%, 145,150 to 129,644. We reported that Emerson led PV towns in voter turnout, with 52.4% turnout, but that countywide only about 2% of registered voters took advantage of the firsttime nine-day early voting window. River Vale and Woodcliff Lake, both hosts to an early voting site, logged 849 and 366 early voters, respectively. Other PV town totals ranged 123 to 271 early votes. (See “Election ʻ21: Emerson led in area voter turnout, at 52.39%,” Pascack Press, Dec. 6, 2021.)

Staff writer Michael Olohan covers Pascack Valley and Northern Valley towns and school districts. In 2021 the NJ chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists recognized him for excellence in grassroots reporting. He welcomes your news tips at pascackpress@thepressgroup.net and (201) 664-2105.

PASCACK VALLEY

Unity Bank and its employees have donated $34,200 to 19 food pantries in New Jersey and Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, including the Helping Hand Food Pantry of Hillsdale. The funds were contributed by Unity Bank employees and matched by the bank as part of a special annual holiday community service project that was started more than 10 years ago. Above, Denise Pallatta of Helping Hand Food Pantry (left) accepts an $1,800 donation from Unity Bank area manager Nihal Birdir.

JANUARY 3, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Pascack Press 1.3.22

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