Pascack Press 10.26.20 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

INNER LIGHT

Emerson • Hillsdale • Montvale • Park Ridge • River Vale • Township of Washington • Westwood • Woodcliff Lake VOLUME 24 ISSUE 32

ANDRIULLI ROCKS

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

OCTOBER 26, 2020

EMERSON

Scouts and friends deliver an enchanted forest in Emerson

Woodcliff Middle School’s principal channels Taylor Swift for a great cause. SEE PAGE 12

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

PROGRESS ON P A R K I N G F O R D PW Agreement with OLGC pending

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The Township Council voted Oct. 5 to allow the administration to investigate temporary parking for public works equipment before signing off on an approximately $60,000 deal with Our Lady of Good Counsel church. OLGC Pastor Stephen Cinque told Pascack Press on Oct. 22 the $2,500 per month contract—which the town clerk said has not been executed—would cover use of 38 parking spaces. The governing body is up against a May 2021 state deadline for soil remediation at the public works building, adjacent to Town Hall and the current volunteer ambulance headquarters. The facility will have to be razed. At this yearʼs reorganization meeting, Jan. 6, Mayor Peter Cala-

See PARKING on page 264

MORE, PLEASE! Members of Come on, things arenʼt all bad this year. Case in point: On Oct. 2 a little piece of magic revealed itself on the grounds of Emerson Junior-Senior High

the community band together to stake a bit of EHS property for all of us—and the faeries. School. months to carve out a remarkable munity. Visitors of all ages came There, a group of friends, space of whimsy, beauty, and fan- to see the lighted path, enjoy the many working toward their silver tasy. flow of bubbles, listen to award in Girl Scout Troop 5857, Organizers said the launch enchanted music, and enjoy delihad come together weekly for party was a big hit with the com- cious mini cupcakes donated by

TOP PHOTO COURTESY ELVES, FAERIES

Continued on page 38

TOURING THE HFD

B ck in time...

There was plenty to see and do at the Hillsdale Fire Department this month. Check out these shots from a student tour and an escape drill! SEE PAGE 28

“Hay, doughnuts, and cinnamon.” Sense memories abound in Kristin Beuscher’s loving look back at Woodcliff Lake’s Van Riper’s Farms.

SEE PAGE 4

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Pontillos impress with team values

To the editor: I AM WRITING to endorse Michael Pontillo for the Westwood open seat on the WWRSD

Board of Education. I have met Michael a handful of times as our lives overlap on the softball field. I have, however, heard—through friends and my husband, who knows Michael well—of his efforts to support the schools and students in town. What I can speak to is my personal experience with the Pontillo family and specifically his interactions with his daughter, Alexa, on the softball field. Any parent knows, watching your child doing something they love and then watching them excel at it makes those sleepless nights and gray hairs worth it. This is what I witnessed the summer of 2019… I watched his daughter Alexa—an adorable little powerhouse— set an example of humility rarely displayed in most adults, as she pitched her summer travel team to an unexpected champi-

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onship. My daughter was lucky enough to be playing alongside the example of Alexa Pontillo. You may wonder how my anecdote connects to Michaelʼs run for the Board of Education. The answer: Our children reflect the best and worst of us. When Alexa sealed an unexpected championship for her team, she handled this situation—along with the entire season—with a unique, quiet grace, as did both her parents. They deserved to shout their pride for all the town to hear. But instead of viewing this win as something Alexa singularly carried off, the entire Pontillo family viewed Alexa as a team player, one who couldnʼt have succeeded without the effort of the entire team. Itʼs clear that Alexaʼs team mentality was derived from her upbringing. I strive to instill this in my own children, and admire the Pontillos for the job they are doing raising daughters. As a member of this community, Although recently the Board has been crying out for a change, it is disheartening that our voices are so often dismissed by several members. Michael Pontillo has the students of this communityʼs

best interest at heart when he makes decisions within the police department. His core values are reflected through his family dynamic and presence in town. Michael Pontillo has proved his commitment to our town. Voting for Michael, is a choice to be heard. We can change the narrative right now if we vote as a community. With hope for the future of our schools and children, Catherine Ianni Westwood

Lane pulls for Curry, Arendacs

To the editor: THIS WEEK I completed my ballot for the Nov. 3 election, and I am proud to say that I voted for Rose Curry and Doug Arendacs for re-election to Montvaleʼs Borough Council. As someone whoʼs had the opportunity to serve the Borough as an elected official for 13 years, I encourage my fellow Montvale residents to do the same.

NOTE: Letter submission deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday for the following Monday’s paper. Publication not guaranteed. Subject to editing. Email to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

I am sure some will think I cast my vote for Rose and Doug because we are all Republicans. Itʼs true that we share the same basic philosophy of government— one that believes in financial responsibility and a focus on the specific role we are elected to play as your councilmembers. Rose and Doug have exhibited a commitment to putting the business of Montvale first, and displaying sound judgment. They believe that Montvale can develop new services for its residents, while applying discipline that prevents undue burdens on all our taxpayers. They have also moved beyond the current habit of simply commenting on social media, and instead have gotten personally involved and proposed actual solutions, as both elected officials and through their resumes as volunteers in town. Thatʼs the main reason they have earned my vote— through their actions both have demonstrated that theyʼve been elected to oversee a municipal government that serves all Montvale residents. And most importantly, to lead a government that does not CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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Housing talks continue; council OKs partial settlement PARK RIDGE

As negotiations continue to settle its five-year-old affordable housing litigation, Park Ridge Borough Council on Oct. 13 unanimously approved a partial settlement with a second intervenor that will permit three single-family homes, the contribution of $90,000 to the local affordable housing trust fund, and the purchase of open space. Meanwhile, the boroughʼs attorney Anthony Bocchi tells Pascack Press that negotiations are in progress and the parties will report back to the court on Nov. 18. Council resolution 20-233 permits developer Metropolitan Home Development at Werimus LLC— one of four intervenors in the longstanding affordable housing litigation—to construct three market-rate single family residential units on Block 608, Lot 15, also known as North Fifth Street. As part of the agreement, the developer will make a $90,000 payment into Park Ridgeʼs affordable housing trust fund, support the boroughʼs third-round affordable housing plan, and sell a lot on the property for $185,000 to the borough for open space. No lot size or acreage was provided in the resolution. The resolution noted settlement of Metropolitan Homes intervenor litigation was recommended by Special Afford-

able Housing Counsel Scott Reynolds. A couple months ago, the borough approved a first partial settlement with Bearʼs Nest Inc. to allow for the construction of 50 affordable townhomes near the Bearʼs Nest condominiums to fulfill part of of the 81-unit realistic development potential, or RDP, of affordable housing the borough contends will satisfy its third-round obligations. In addition, 24 affordable units will be built in a 240-unit five-story downtown mixed-use complex under construction, which includes 17,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space. Other affordable obligations were to be fulfilled with affordable housing overlay zones for inclusionary housing that permits 15 percent of rental or 20 percent of market-rate units to be set aside as affordable in multifamily developments of five of more units. One issue under negotiation is Park Ridgeʼs contention that the borough is built out, with little vacant land available for future affordable housing. Recently, special master Frank Bansich denied the boroughʼs request for a vacant land adjustment to possibly reduce its affordable housing obligations. Park Ridge is opposing that as well as Banischʼs determination to increase zoning to 35 dwelling units per acre Park Ridge has been contesting its affordable housing obligations since July 2015 when it filed a declaratory judgment in New Jersey

Superior Court and began litigation with four intervenors, including Hornrock Properties LLC, which proposed 972 housing units on the former 30-acre Sony property. A recent change affecting affordable litigation negotiations was the transfer of the 30-acre Sony property from Hornrock Properties LLC to Landmark Realty Group LLC, which was approved by Superior Court Judge Gregg Padovano. Padovano allowed Landmark to remain a defendant-intervenor in the litigation. It was unclear what the transfer of ownership means to negotiations, although it is likely the new owner/developer anticipates development of the 30-acre property. In 2019, Hornrock received approval to build 185 units, including 37 affordable units, on a 7-acre former Sony property in Montvale. That project is pending approval of an access road through a portion of Park Ridge to the Montvale development. Recently, Englewood Cliffs, one of North Jerseyʼs last towns to continue a legal battle against its affordable housing obligations over five-plus years, voted Oct. 4 to settle litigation. Its settlement permits 450 housing units on the former Unilever campus, including 90 affordable units, plus the borough will construct 65 affordable units on its property and pay $335,000 in legal fees to Fair Share Housing Center. Moreover, overlay zones on

five properties will create the opportunity for future affordable housing should the properties be redeveloped. The borough was only the second municipality statewide to be found non-compliant with Mount Laurel rulings and it lost its

immunity to builderʼs remedy lawsuits that allow high-density development in order to provide affordable units in a community. The affordable housing thirdround obligations cover 1999 to July 2025

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OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

B ck in time... WOODCLIFF LAKE

IF YOU GREW UP in the Pascack Valley and youʼre above a certain age, you probably have fond memories of this place: Van Riperʼs Farms on Chestnut Ridge Road in Woodcliff Lake. From the glasses of fresh-pressed cider, to choosing the best pumpkin, to posing for mom and dadʼs camera with the spooky decorations, Van Riperʼs was a family favorite in October. For people from many parts of Bergen, this was their yearly foray into “the country,” where the autumn air was fresh, crisp, and smelled of hay, doughnuts, and cinnamon. The Van Ripers traced their lineage back to Holland and the farm was first established in 1791. When the farm closed down in the mid-1990s, it was the oldest in Woodcliff Lake. Peter Van Riper was the 11th generation to farm the land, which had dwindled to 8 acres from its original 160. For many, the end of Van Riperʼs was the end of an era. The site of the farm is now a supermarket.

A VINTAGE VIEW of Van Riper’s farm stand goes back about 50 years.

THE TRADITION stretched back generations. This ad is from November 1923.

ABOVE: Inside Van Riper’s farm store in the 1980s. AT LEFT: Peter and Arthur Van Riper—11th generation farmers—in 1985. Arthur passed away earlier this year.

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY IN THE PASCACK PRESS.

inside LETTERS EATS DINING

PUMPKIN PEOPLE welcomed autumn visitors to the farm for decades.

A WITCH flies high above the pumpkin display in October 1952.

2 14

LIBRARY CALENDAR 13 HEALTH & WELLNESS 18 HOME IMPROVEMENT 24 REAL ESTATE

SERVICES

OBITUARIES

37 A BEAUTIFUL DAY on the farm in 1978.

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

LONGTIME EMPLOYEE Bill Pangert fills jugs with cider. 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.

FOR PROTECTING GREEN OF 450 PASCACK ROAD BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The mayor and council heard from five residents who called in to their virtual meeting on Oct. 19 to call for the town to consider rezoning 450 Pascack Road or acquiring it through eminent domain. The Ridgewood Boulevard East homeowners referred several times to a letter their counsel had sent the governing body, making clear their concern that if town leaders do nothing the land could be developed at the expense of neighbors and the town generally. They cite the 3.2 acre propertyʼs “intrinsic value” as open space and “habitat to varied wildlife” and environmental benefits related to storm runoff. “In sum, the property at 450 Pascack Road provides significant and critical social benefits to the entire community,” the residents say. Also Oct. 19, the council unanimously approved Ordinance 20-14, allowing the Township to use eminent domain to acquire 13 private properties needed to com-

plete the long-stalled Pascack Road-Washington Avenue intersection upgrade. There was no discussion for or against, and no one from the public weighed in.

Residents rally to protect land Attorney Charles Sarlo of Hasbrouck Heights is representing Ridgewood Boulevard East homeowners Michael Proto, Joseph Scalia, and Brian Sinclair, all of whom were alarmed after a developer signaled intent to erect a senior complex at the site, a strip of wooded buffer between residential backyards and nearby Memorial Field and Washington Elementary School. Sarloʼs letter, received by the governing body the day of the council meeting and acquired by Pascack Press on Oct. 20, urges “immediate action.” The residents offer legal options the council should consider, including rezoning and acquiring the land for open space, parkland, a nature walk, or to meet presumable expansion needs of the school. Their letter cites the 2006 Master Plan reportʼs goal, restated in the 2019 plan reexamination, to “maintain a quiet, single-family,

residential suburban community character, with some community oriented services and facilities.” The letter urges the council “give immediate due consideration and implementation to one of the above outlined affirmative actions in order to preserve a significant and critical social benefit to the residents of the Township.” Scalia said with recent developments gaining ground in the township, it was likely the elementary school would need to expand. “We need to hold 450 [Pascack Road] for our town and our children,” Scalia said, noting developers were “looking for profit and not preserving our town.” He said people were coming together townwide “and donʼt want high-density housing here.” Township Attorney Kenneth Poller said Oct. 19 that he would meet with the borough planner the next day to discuss the legal options the group raised in their letter. Mayor Peter Calamari said he was “happy to meet any time” with residents on their concerns— he said meeting with residents was one of the fun parts of his job— CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

RESIDENTS MAKE THEIR CASE

6 ELECTION 2020

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Westwood Council

In the Hub of the Pascack Valley, two three-year seats are up for grabs among incumbents Democrat Erin Collins, Republican Christopher Montana, and Democratic challenger Bermari Roig. For an unexpired one-year term ending Dec. 31, 2021, Democrat Lee-Ann Schaadt faces Republican incumbent Cheryl L. Hodges. We asked the candidates their views on revitalizing the Central Business District—including adding a microbrewery—and for their main message to voters. Most

responded by press time. In their own words…

ERIN COLLINS (D)

IʼM A MOTHER, wife, accountant, and community volunteer. I graduated from Rutgers University, New Brunswick with my BA in political science and a minor in womenʼs studies. I am an account-

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ant for a small CPA firm in Westwood. I have three children (14, 10, and 6) attending school in the Westwood Regional School District— Berkeley Elementary and Westwood Regional High School. I have been a class parent for all three of my childrenʼs classes at different grade levels, and I am a Girl Scout leader for my daughtersʼ Junior and Daisy troops. I have coached Westwood Rec Dragons soccer for all of my childrenʼs teams. I am a parishioner, and volunteer as a Homebound sponsor and Sunday school teacher, at Zion Lutheran Church in Westwood. I am most proud of volunteering with the nonprofit group Connex4NPO during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. This group coordinates food donations and distributions to the most vulnerable in our community. I began my term as a Westwood councilmember Jan. 1, 2018 and have been grateful to have the opportunity to serve our community at this level. My hope is to be re-elected for a second term and continue to work on environmentally sustainable ideas for our town while increasing communication to residents thus encouraging civic involvement and volunteerism. Our borough is collaborating with the Celebrate Westwood group and the Westwood Elementary School Parent Organizations to have a “Trek or Treat” in the

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Central Business District on Halloween. I believe increased events that tie in safe-distance socialization while having our businesses be the destination allows for residents to frequent our stores and restaurants much more due to the increased engagement in community events. Promoting shopping events while having activities for individuals and families alike will bring a source of pride for shoppers to shop locally. I am very excited about the proposed microbrewery planned for downtown Westwood. Encouraging establishments to have an experiential element for their customers is the way our downtown will remain vibrant and a destination for our residents and surrounding neighboring towns. I hope to increase the boroughʼs level of communication to our residents through many forms of media. I am very proud to have worked on our boroughʼs newly unveiled interactive website with our administrator and clerk and hope that a borough app is developed in the near future. We have such a wonderful town and I want to make sure our residents aged 0 to 100 are learning about and participating in the vast variety of our communityʼs events and programs as well as share their opinions and views on how we can continue to make positive progress.

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Firewood

CHRISTOPHER MONTANA (R)

I AM A 19-year resident of Westwood. My wife Maria and I just celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary and we are blessed to raise our daughters, Amanda and Alexa, in this

wonderful town. I am seeking re-election for a third term based on my proven record and experience in delivering results for our community. I am a problem solver, a listener and empathetic to the needs of my constituents. I have volunteered and committed myself to our community through my involvement in sports, charitable and municipal programs and boards. I continue to serve on the Board of Meals on Wheels North Jersey and coach Westwoodʼs Special Needs Activities Program (SNAP). Much has been accomplished in my six years on the Borough Council. I have been council liaison and chair to the Finance, Recreation, and Health, Police, Environmental and Senior Advisory committees. I have served three years as Council President and work tirelessly to keep municipal spending in check, reduce borough debt, upgrade our parks, launch pedestrian safety and opioid addiction programs and acquire critical infrastructure via the federal governments 1033 program. My accomplishments include: Established the Pedestrian Safety Task Force, resulting in expanded driver enforcement, improved lighting at our busiest pedestrian intersections, upgraded/new crosswalks, digital speed signs and a partnership with Street Smart NJ. Delivered neighborhood park improvements utilizing open space grants and Community Center upgrades utilizing trust funds— both offsetting taxpayer investment. Architected our current fiscal strategy that has reduced borough debt by $5 million, increased surplus reserves providing a more stable municipal tax environment. Secured grant funding to remediate and improve the elevated sidewalk and railing along Westwood Avenue. Implemented with WPD the Heroin Addiction Recovery Team (HART), providing assistance to individuals and families impacted by opioid addiction. Worked with Recreation Dept. to upgrade the tennis courts at McKinley Park using partial county funding. Worked with our Health Department to increase the age to purchase tobacco in the borough, long before the state did. Worked with our Chamber of CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

LOCAL BOE RACES IN FOCUS PASCACK VALLEY

Only two of six local school board elections on the ballot Nov. 3 are competitive contests, while candidates in two towns are running unopposed and two other school board races face a dearth of candidates. Of eight Pascack Valley towns in our coverage area, only six towns are voting on local school board candidates. Competitive school elections include the races for Pascack Valley Regional District Board of Education and the Westwood Regional School District.

The Pascack Valley Regional High School District includes Pascack Hills High School, where students attend from Montvale and Woodcliff Lake, and Pascack Valley High School, where students attend from Hillsdale and River Vale. We presented coverage of the 2020 candidates via two articles this summer. Weʼve also reported on the boardʼs controversial decision June 22 to “retire” the Indian and Cowboy mascots long used at Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills high schools. The Westwood Regional School District includes a high school, middle school and four elementary schools attended by students in Westwood and Township

of Washington. We covered those candidates Oct. 19. Competitive races for school boards occur in Hillsdale and River Vale, where candidates outnumber open seats. Pascack Press reached out to candidates in contested races for a brief biography and statement. Here are excerpts:

who may have been exposed directly or indirectly, as well as any other members wishing to be tested,” he said. “In order to seamlessly continue to provide the services to our residents and our community, we have arranged for formal full coverage of the Township through our mutual aid departments in the neighboring towns,” he added. The WTFD is working with the township OEM, administration and the Health Department on implementing the departmentʼs plan to return to service. Calamari said, “Our utmost

concern is always the safety of our residents and the members of this department. We are not taking these steps lightly and we would just like the residents to know that you remain safe and protected. Please keep the brave members of the Department and their families in your thoughts and prayers.” The update also is signed by Fire Chief Kevin Zitko and Director William Bilias. The development comes on the heels of the Westwood Regional School District closing all of its facilities for two weeks after new cases were reported.

Hillsdale Incumbent K-8 school board member Christina Jennings, a 17year resident, said her experience during the past three years “has been a great asset to the district” and noted that her dual roles as parent and educator allow her “to have perspective on important matters.” She said her involvement with

Covid shuts volunteer fire department

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Mayor Peter Calamari took to email and Facebook on Oct. 21 to advise residents that the Township of Washington Volunteer Fire Department is shut down over exposure to Covid-19—and that seamless coverage is being provided through mutual aid. “Earlier this week there was a Covid-19 exposure incident involving the Township Fire Department. Out of an abundance of caution, effective immediately, the Fire Department has been temporarily shut down while we perform contact tracing and Covid-19 testing for any members

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local schools “has been an important part of my life in Hillsdale, and now more than ever, it is that experience that is needed to continue to move forward.” Incumbent Nicole Klas, a certified public accountant and 21year Hillsdale resident, is running with Jennings on a “ContinuityConsistency-Experience” platform. She has two daughters and serves as chair of the Policy and Finance and Negotiations committees. She has volunteered for various school committees and served as a coach.

“As members of the current board, Nicole and Christina have helped establish a long-term vision and developed an action plan that helped get our children back to school this year. Especially in these unprecedented times our schools need their leadership so that our teachers and administrators can deliver on the goals for this school year and beyond,” states the candidatesʼ Facebook page. Resident Claudina Morrison said she moved to Hillsdale three CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

WITH VOTING MACHINES RESTRICTED, CLERKS SAY TO DROP, MAIL BALLOTS BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

The ballots voters entrust to each of the 18 secure ballot drop boxes in Bergen County are being picked up twice per day, as of Oct. 19, and are directly delivered to the Board of Elections offices for sorting and processing prior to ballot vote counting that starts on Saturday, Oct. 24. Thatʼs according to county Board of Elections Chairwoman Jamie H. Sheehan-Willis, who told Pascack Press last week that high voter demand required the

additional collections. She said all pickups are overseen by a sheriffʼs officer and Democratic and Republican party representatives. The nearest drop box in our area is behind Hillsdale Borough Hall, 380 Hillsdale Ave. With Election Day looming, county and local elections officials emphasize that registered voters should send in their mail-in ballot as soon as possible, via a secure drop box or U.S. mail, and not wait until the last minute. Indeed, ballot drop boxes might be the most secure route, elections officials say, as the U.S.

Michael Olohan photo

BERGEN COUNTY ELECTIONS commissioners Jamie Sheehan-Willis and Richard Miller examine a mail-in ballot last week. Counting of mail-in ballots commences Oct. 24.

Postal Service appears to struggle with allegations of unreliable, missed, and late mail delivery this year. Elections officials we spoke with noted that voters waiting to vote at one of the limited polling places open Nov. 3 need to realize they must wait in line, follow social distancing, and wear a mask. Moreover, only voters who certify theyʼre blind, illiterate, or physically unable to fill out a mail-in ballot will be allowed to vote on an ADA-compliant voting machine. Officials warn that lines Nov. 3 to vote in person on a provisional paper ballot might be lengthy, compared to turnout at the July 7 primary. County Superintendent of Elections Patricia DiCostanzo told Pascack Press that Bergen County expects 60,000 in-person voters on Election Day, well over the 20,000 who turned out to cast votes in the primary. The top reason for ballot rejection was late arrival, according to one recent analysis. As well, votersʼ signatures will need to closely match what officials have on file. To help resolve signature questions, county elections officials will be sending out “cure letters” to voters whose signatures do not match the signature on file with elections officials. These voters must respond to the letters and “cure” the discrepancy for their ballots to be counted. Officials suggest that voters who registered decades ago might want to visit the state Division of Elections website and check “Signature Update” at the top of the

Photo courtesy Carlos A. Rendo

SO MOVED! Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos A. Rendo drops his ballot into Bergen County’s secure ballot drop box behind Hillsdale Borough Hall. There are 18 such drop boxes countywide, and voters can send their ballots to elections officials through the mail. Just make sure your signature matches what the county has on record for you—and that you follow all voting instructions. application page. All vote by mail ballots include a brochure detailing six easy steps to take to submit the ballot, and the Board of Chosen Freeholders and County Clerkʼs Office have how-to videos on their websites. Most Pascack Valley municipal clerks told Pascack Press that voters can consult their townʼs websites for information on the vote-by-mail election and location of local polling places open Nov. 3. Only limited polling places will be open. The clerks said voters should expect delays and long lines if they prefer to vote in person Nov. 3. They said voting by mail could well be more expedient. Locally, municipal clerks are responsible for elections operations. Emerson Clerk Jane Dietsche said the “common thread” in most phone calls she fields is residents wondering if they can vote on a machine—and if not, why not. She said there is some confusion among residents who hear that voters can vote in person Nov. 3, but most do not realize, until she informs them, that only certified blind, illiterate, or physically disabled voters may vote on a familiar ADA-compliant voting machine. Park Ridge Borough Clerk Maggie Giandomenico echoed this concern, noting many people may not realize it takes more time to fill out a provisional paper ballot, which means people are together “in the same space for a

longer period.” Moreover, she said that voters going in person Nov. 3 to cast provisional paper ballots should realize those votes will not be counted until after all vote-bymail ballots are counted. New Jersey law allows late mail-in ballots postmarked Nov. 3 to be counted up to Nov. 10. Westwood Borough Clerk Karen Hughes estimated that it takes three to five minutes per person to fill out a provisional paper ballot. She said voters preferring to drop off a mail-in ballot at a polling place Nov. 3 instead of mailing it or depositing it in a drop box will have to wait on line and sign the registration book. Also, she said, voters may only drop off their own ballot at a polling place, she said. In contrast, she said, voters may legally drop off up to three peopleʼs mail-in ballots at a secure drop box if they fill out the bearer portion of the envelope, she noted. The countyʼs secure drop boxes are open 24 hours a day, seven days per week, until 8 p.m. on Nov. 3. “I recommend that voters fill out a ballot in the comfort of their own home and use the ʻtrack your ballotʼ option if theyʼre concerned,” she said. “Iʼm concerned that there still are a number of people just not absorbing this, about not being able to vote on machine. And itʼs hard to know how many people will decide to show up [Nov. 3].

OCTOBER 26, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

10 ELECTION 2020

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

MEET THE CANDIDATES: Woodcliff Lake Council

In Woodcliff Lake, councilwoman Nancy Gross and councilman Brian Singleton are departing, leaving two open seats. Four challengers are competing: former Democratic mayor Josephine Higgins, Democrat Richard Schnoll, and Republicans Roxana Rito and Michael Casale; two are competing for a 1-year unexpired term: Dianna Cereijo (R) and Craig R. Marson (D). We asked the candidates to comment on the boroughʼs $1.5 million settlement with Valley Chabad and for their views on the boroughʼs plan to convert the former Galaxy Gardens landscape center on Woodcliff Avenue into a passive park. Most responded by press time. In their own words…

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WCL mayor 1996–2003. WCL councilw o m a n , 1994–1995. WCL Democratic Party member since 1971. JOSEPHINE Member of HIGGINS (D) Board of Health, Finance Committee, Planning Board, and Shade Tree Committee. First woman on Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps. (via civil rights lawsuit). Also longest running active member, at 45 years. Member of COAH. Member WCL Democratic County Committee. Governor awardee (Christine Todd Whitman) for nurse of the

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piece of property. The first cleanup was done when I was mayor. We did not pay for it. The owner did. In matters such as these, the seller is responsible for the clean up before anybody bought it. The Republicansʼ tie-breaking vote to purchase was so hastily done, this was overlooked. That being said, now that we have obtained the property, we should move the memorials, for our brave vets, from Broadway so we can continue to honor them. Also, we can show our children how these men and women kept us free. The area will definitely needs trees, flowers and an area to sit. The area for seating can have bricks with names on them for a donation amount to offset the cost of working in that area. The Shade Tree Committee can secure free trees. A gazebo would make the area attractive. With a few tables people could picnic there. We need to continue to apply for Open Space money. I have been a mayor and a councilperson who has managed crisis in our town before. This is a time for proven results. Craig Marson has already shown his ability to protect us financially. Richard Schnoll brings a great legal skill set to the table. As a nurse and volunteer on the ambulance corps I will surely put forth information on your health and safety.

year, Valley Hospital. Volunteer for all Democratic Presidential candidates since 1976. Ascended WCL to a AAA S&P rating. Of the recent settlement with Valley Chabad, I have read over the two cases concerning this matter, the local case and the federal, and I feel this could have been compromised earlier. The fact that we did not, has left us with settlement costs and large legal bills. I feel there were many alternatives that could have been explored. The Apostolic Church property was available with land across the street that Woodcliff Lake bought. The Chabad could have bought that and they would have had plenty of parking. The Hilton Hotel was also available and if the Chabad bought that they would have had approximately seven acres to sell off. They would be able to meet all their needs for worship, schooling, camps, etc. There are also large amounts of rental property of Chestnut Ridge Road that they could have gone into a long term lease with an option to buy. Unfortunately, there was a deficit of discovery in these cases, and now WCL is paying the price. Of remediation work at Galaxy Gardens and the potential passive park planned there, I never was in favor of buying that contaminated

I WAS AGAINST the proposed settlement with Valley Chabad, although I have no issue with Valley Chabad itself and I welcome their presence in the RICHARD c o m m u n i t y. SCHNOLL (D) From what was stated at the council meetings, it does not appear that Valley Chabad had a strong case. No discovery was done in the litigation. Valley Chabad received everything that they were seeking and the town received very little. I am particularly troubled by the $1.5 million payment to Valley Chabad. Even though $900,000 is being paid by our insurance carrier, it still leaves Woodcliff Lake taxpayers on the hook for $600,000. That is real money even if we are getting a low interest loan to pay it off over five years. I am also disappointed that WCL will be under Department of Justice oversight for four years. That was not made clear in the presentations. It puts a stain on the town. In my view, the Galaxy Gardens purchase was a mistake. Typically, in real estate transacCONTINUED ON PAGE 29

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Principal turns ‘Mean’ as community rallies for those in need

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

12 WOODCLIFF LAKE

The Woodcliff Middle School Community prides itself as one dedicated to service, giving, and meeting the needs of those in need. Even with the challenges of COVID-19, these values remain at the heart of the schoolʼs students and staff. During the week of Oct. 13–16, Woodcliff Middle School joined many around that nation in celebrating Week of Respect. Students and staff participated in spirit activities all geared towards recognizing the importance of respect, understanding, and celebration of differences. They also raised approximately $600 for the organization Feeding America, which helps to provide meals for those in need. According to Principal Michael Andriulli, this has never been more necessary, given the cruel reach of the pandemic. Andriulli said he provided a great incentive for the fundraiser: He agreed to do a karaoke perform-

ance of Taylor Swiftʼs “Mean” for the whole school to enjoy if more than $500 was raised. “Singing isnʼt one of my strengths, but I wanted to find a way to motivate the students and put smiles on everyoneʼs faces,” he told Pascack Press on Oct. 20. He said students surpassed the goal and earned the performance, which he delivered as promised. This fundraiser comes weeks after the school raised and donated more than $600 to the National Niemann-Pick Disease Foundation. The school partnered with Chipotle Mexican Grill in Montvale for the event, which was planned in the spring in recognition of Rare Disease Day, then postponed. Andriulli said that over the past five years, Woodcliff Middle Schoolʼs fundraising and awareness campaign for Rare Disease Day have grown. They have sold T-shirts to staff, increased the amount of jeans days, and included public service announcement videos

Video still photo courtesy Michael Andriulli

THE BOOTS SELL THE LOOK. Woodcliff Middle School Principal Michael Andriulli performs Taylor Swift’s ‘Mean’ as he agreed if students and staff met their latest ambitious fundraising goal to help those in need. teaching students about rare diseases. Overall, he said, school has raised and donated more than $4,000 to the National NiemannPick Disease Foundation.

Thanksgiving in mind In November, Woodcliff Middle School students, their families, and community will join together as they have done the past nine years in one of their most valuable and charitable events. Project N.E.S.T. (No Empty Stomachs Today) provides hundreds of Thanksgiving meals to families in the Newark area. Andriulli said students are provided the opportunity to be a part of the entire giving process.

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“The school runs a food drive and some students collect items at the local grocery stores. Student Council members then inventory, organize, and stage the collected items to enable each student in the middle school to fill a bag to be transported to Newark,” he said. He explained, “Students spend a morning distributing the meals directly to families through The Apostle House. This valuable school experience is unparalleled as students walk away with a sense of pride and thankfulness—exactly what the Thanksgiving holiday is about.” Although this yearʼs Project N.E.S.T. might look slightly different, the goal remains the same: to supply The Apostle House with

more than 300 Thanksgiving dinners. Andriulli said, “The Woodcliff Middle School community is committed to move forward, and even build upon, its efforts of service during this challenging year.” He said, “In the midst of the fear, stress, and unknown that many are feeling, we want to continue to be a positive influence on those around us.” Andriulli said that “Although the schoolʼs main focus is keeping students and staff safe, we canʼt lose sight of what really matters. There is a lot out of our control right now, but we are always in control of how we treat people and the good that we do for others.”

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EMERSON 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org • Visit the Emerson Memory Garden for a special Halloween StoryWalk on the book “How To Build A Haunted House” by Frank Tupta. StoryWalk is a way for children—and adults!—to enjoy reading and the outdoors at the same time. The memory garden is next to the library. • Magical Melodies meets Monday, Oct. 26 from 10:30-11:15 a.m. on Facebook Live. High-energy songs, dance, and instruments, followed by trombone parade with Mr. Chris. For tykes 2–4. • Baby & Me is on Facebook Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 11:30 a.m.

Introduction to songs, dance and finger plays with stuffed animals and rhymes. Newborn to 2. • An October Evening of Tales will premiere on Facebook and the libraryʼs website Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Old, uncanny folk tales from England, Scotland, and Ireland as told fireside by storyteller Charles Kiernan. Geared toward adults. • Harry Potter Yoga premieres on the libraryʼs Facebook on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 10 a.m. Ms. Shelley of Every Little Thing Yoga incorporates yoga poses inspired by the Harry Potter series. Use a wand, a cloak, or wear a Harry Potter T-shirt and transform yourself into a wizard!

For children of all abilities. • Boxing for Fitness & Fun, a program for adults, is on Friday mornings through December. Presented by the Jewish Home Family, these classes are free and held through Zoom. Certified Rock Steady boxing coach Tom Elliott leads. Find link to register on the libraryʼs website. • HorrorVision, a film series for adults, presents classic scary films with commentary and trivia. Hosted by Kevin Bright. New films go up on the libraryʼs website and Facebook on Fridays in October at 7:30 p.m. The lineup: “House on Haunted Hill” (1959), “The City of the Dead” (1960), “The Phantom of the Opera”

(1929), “The Last Man on Earth” (1964), and “Night of the Living Dead” (1968).

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HILLSDALE

PVHS teachers land $8,000 for language program

Congratulazioni! The Italian American Committee on Education (IACE) has awarded Pascack Valley High School teachers Angie DeLima and Francesca Silvano an $8,000 educational materials grant for the schoolʼs Italian program. The teachers will each tap $4,000 of the grant for materials for their students, which will be used in both remote and on-campus learning. PVHS is fully remote through Oct. 28. IACE, a New York-based non-profit organization, was founded in 1975 to promote the study of Italian language and culture in the tri-state area. Itʼs financed through an Italian government grant and operates under the supervision of the Consulate General of Italy in New York. Noemi Rodriguez—the schoolʼs supervisor for instruction for World Language, English as a Second Language, Music, and Family and Consumer Science— told Pascack Press that 162 PVHS students study Italian. PVHS also offers Chinese, French, and Spanish. Rodriguez lauded IACEʼs generosity and said materials it is funding will start to be purchased this week. The districtʼs language instruction speaks to additional successes: In an October presen-

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tation to the school board, the department said that, 2019–2020, 39 Pascack Hills students earned the New Jersey Department of Education Seal of Biliteracy after testing in Chinese, French, Italian, and Spanish. The same year, 51 Pascack Valley students earned the coveted

SORRIDENDO PER LA FOTOCAMERA (smiling for the camera): Angie DeLima, PVHS Italian teacher, with her daughter, Liliana. Above: Francesca Silvano, PVHS Italian teacher.

seal after testing in French, Italian, Korean, Polish, Spanish, and Russian. Over the past five years, the department said, regional students also earned the seal for their proficiency in Hindi and Japanese. — John Snyder

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Frozen turkey drive for Helping Hand Nov. 21

Drop off your turkeys and all the trimmings to the Helping Hand Food Pantry on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hillsdale Methodist Church, 349 Hillsdale Ave. For everyoneʼs safety, and per the law, social distancing rules will be in place and face masks are required. The Helping Hand Food Pantry has been serving Emerson, Hillsdale, Oradell, Montvale, River Vale, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake since

1992. Board members told Pascack Press, “During this recent health and economic crisis, Helping Hand Food Pantry has expanded its reach. We contacted all the local places of worship, town officials, updated our social media accounts and our website daily to assist anyone in need.” They added that the number of clients they serve has increased since it reopened with new safety procedures in place. The clients received gift cards from grocery

PASCACK VALLEY

ROTARY CLUB TAKING ORDERS FOR FRESH CITRUS FRUIT

The Park Ridge Rotary Club is accepting orders from area residents for fresh seedless navel oranges and pink grapefruit delivered from the groves of Florida and California. All of the proceeds from the clubʼs 33rd annual fruit sale will support charitable and community service projects, including local scholarships, hunger relief, and the Gift of Life program. A gift for all occasions or just bringing Sunshine to a neighbor. Each full carton of fruit weighs approximately 42 pounds. The cost for a full carton of either fruit is

$48; a half-carton costs $30. For order forms call Bernie Cohen at (201) 391-4249 or download them from the Park Ridge Rotary Club at https://portal.clubrunner.ca/2088. Orders must be received by Friday, Nov. 23. Checks should be made payable to Park Ridge Rotary. Mail to Park Ridge Rotary Club, B P.O. Box 265, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. The fruit will be available for pick up on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 10 a.m. to noon at the International Bulb Company, 5 Wortendyke Ave., Montvale.

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Three new members at Fire Dept.

The River Vale Fire Department has welcomed three new members, all from town: Daniel Schneiderman, scheduled for Fire One in Mahwah; Justin Eliopoulos, enrolled in Fire One during the day in Mahwah; and Nathan Grawer, a career fireman in Bayonne volunteering in his home town. Lt. Tim Van Saders, who heads up the departmentʼs social media, is pictured here at left,

Eliopoulos is in the middle, and Grawer is on the right. Schneiderman was working out of town when this photo was taken. Chief Ron Manke told Pascack Press on Oct. 20 that Van Saders is doing an incredible job getting the word out, and thatʼs helped with quality recruiting—which will save lives and property. “Weʼve been engaging with

the community more than ever through township events and social media. Weʼve really been trying to show the community who we are, what we do and why we do it,” Manke said. The department was organized Aug. 13, 1923. For more information, visit the departmentʼs newly updated website, rivervalefd.com. — Staff report

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Case: Open space? but noted that only he and two other councilmembers could meet at one time without first filing due public notice of a quorum. “It will be a monthsʼ process, not a weeksʼ process,” he said. Council President Stacey Feeney said councilmembers “understand the urgency” and “are trying to work out a plan.” She added, “Itʼs going to take a little more time.” Councilman Michael DeSena said the council would respond to residents after they had a chance to consider the letter, which they had only recently received with their board packets. Developer Nick Tsapatsaris

FROM PAGE 5

& Associates had proposed a 48unit independent senior living complex for 450 Pascack Road, including a 44-unit apartment complex and two townhome buildings with two units each. Tsapatsaris withdrew his application this summer before it could be scheduled for a Zoning Board hearing. Prior to withdrawing the proposal, Tsapatsaris had met informally with some nearby residents. Some homeowners then reached out to Pascack Press to voice concerns with what they considered to be high-density overdevelopment. For more, see “Is buffer at 450 Pascack Road right for conservation easement?” in our Sept. 28 issue.

EMERSON

Nico Savino makes Dean’s List at The Citadel

The Citadel has recognized Nico Savino, majoring in criminal justice, for earning a spot on the Deanʼs List for spring 2020, just as he did in fall 2019. Savino graduated EHS in 2019 as a top student-athlete, impressing in baseball and football and in the classroom. The Citadel, with its iconic campus located in Charleston, South Carolina, offers a classic military college education pro-

foundly focused on leadership excellence and academic distinction. Graduates are not required to serve in the military but about one-third of each class commission as officers in every branch of U.S. military service. Graduates of The Citadel have served the nation, their states and their communities as principled leaders since the college was founded in 1842.

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BUY LOCAL: Farmers’ market open Saturdays in Westwood

The Westwood Farmersʼ Market is in the parking lot of the St. Thomas More Knights of Columbus Council 2188, at 40 Crest St., Westwood. The market is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closter Farm & Livestock Co. is the local organic farmer with the freshest seasonal produce around!

Some of the artisans found at the market include Smokinʼ Joeʼs, Best Damn Lemonade, Three Charmed Gems, Traveling Mermaid Boutique, Elixir Kitchenʼs Gourmet Pet Treats, Olive Branch & Grape Vine, Conradʼs Confectionery, Spread the Rub, Jerky Rob, Paoloʼs Kitchen (Italian dinners on the go),

Gunter Wilhelm Knives & Sharpening, Catalina Empanadas, Guac A Lot, Whole Plant Medicine, Riley & Mee, and Artisanal Soaps. Additional artisans may join on a guest basis. For more information, call (201) 723-8807. Help raise funds for so many of the Knightsʼ charitable donations/events.

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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Dining & Cooking Guide

Stop & Shop launches pickup at Emerson store

Stop & Shop boasts it continues to provide New Jersey residents with faster and more convenient ways to shop, announcing a new pickup location in Emerson at 600 Kinderkamack Road. Shoppers will be able to place an order at stopandshop.com or on

the Stop & Shop mobile app, head to the store, and have a store associate load their groceries right into their car. “Weʼre excited to offer our customers the convenience of shopping online for all their favorite items, and then picking up

HILLSDALE

Drive-thru trickor-treat at firehouse

The Hillsdale Volunteer Fire Department, in conjunction with the borough, police department, ambulance corps and DPW, present a Halloween Drive-Thru trickor-treating event on Saturday, Oct. 31 from noon to 3 p.m. The event takes place at the firehouse, 383 Hillsdale Ave. Hillsdale residents should enter the fire station parking lot

that order from the comfort of their vehicle,” said Chris Tahmoosh, store manager of Stop & Shop Emerson. “We hope this service helps make things easier for them.” Stop & Shop has altered its pickup policies with associate and customer safety in mind. Customers are asked to have their trunk or door open for associates to place groceries directly into their vehicle. Customers are also encouraged to wear masks and limit the number of people in their

vehicle, when possible. In addition, all Stop & Shop pickup associates will be wearing masks and follow all of the same sanitizing precautions as its instore associates, including surface sanitization and regular hand washing. Due to customer demand, supply may be limited for certain items like disinfecting wipes and other cleaning products and may not be available for purchase. Purchase limits are also still in place

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on Washington Avenue and proceed to drive through the firehouse. A goodie bag will be given to each child, while adhering to all safety protocols. The event is free. However, with Thanksgiving approaching, participants are asked to bring non-perishable items to donate to the Hillsdale Food Pantry.

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SHOPRITE OF HILLSDALE held its annual “Help Bag Hunger” campaign event on Sept. 23, raising funds, support, and awareness for those in our community who are food insecure. From left to right: Alan Pitman of St. Andrew’s, assistant store manager Jim Callaghan, YES broadcaster and former Yankee John Flaherty, store associate Jack Callaghan, Hillsdale Mayor John Ruocco, store associate Kathy Kiaffas, store manager Olsi Muskaj, Hillsdale Councilman Anthony DeRosa, St. Andrew’s Fr. Joseph Chapel, Hillsdale Police Capt. Sean Smith, and retired Yankee Billy Sample. Not pictured: Hillsdale Councilman Zoltan Horvath. You can donate non-perishable food items to the St. Andrew’s Parish Food Pantry, 120 Washington Ave., Westwood, Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Dining & Cooking Guide

Unique burger blends, appys, salads, sandwiches are ‘Prime Eats’ in Westwood

If you want to try a unique burger place in Westwood, go to Westwood Prime Eats. At Westwood Prime Eats, a new fast-casual eatery launched a year ago that serves customers the finest and freshest cuts of meat, including a wide variety of unique burgers, salads, and sandwiches, customers always come first. Westwood Eats co-partner John Petruso, along with co-partner, and father, Salvatore Petruso,

and head chef David Harley, said what makes the downtown's fastcasual eatery so popular is its unique variety of burger blends, ground on premises next door at Westwood Prime Meats, a premium butcher shop started by Salvatore in 1986. Unique 6-ounce burger blends include a steak blend that features ground round and chuck, an “SSB” blend of short rib, sirloin and brisket, and an eight-

ounce dry-aged blend that offers 35-day dry-aged rib deckle. Petruso said during Westwoodʼs annual downtown celebration, the butcher shop always offered highly popular burgers on a grill outside the butcher shop. So when it came time to expand into space next door, burgers were the obvious choice. A recent menu featured a choice of blends for a Classic Burger, French Onion Burger, and

LEFT TO RIGHT: John Petruso, David Harley, and Sal Petruso. “The Capone,” with black pepper options. Other burger options bacon, sunny-side egg on a potato include a lamb burger, chicken burger and a vegan burger called bun and pickle. In addition, the eatery offers a “The Garden State Burger,” selection of fresh appetizers/salSEE PRIME PAGE 38 ads, with meat and meatless

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OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

Letters:

impose its view on residents about how they should live their lives. I thank them for their continued commitment and service to Montvale. Timothy Lane Montvale councilman

FROM PAGE 2

Browne fires back on spending

To the editor: AS A COUNCIL CANDIDATE for Emerson I am responding to Councilman Hoffmanʼs letter in the [Oct. 19] Pascack Press. Hav-

ing served on Emersonʼs Environmental Commission with Ken and my husband and he both serving as Democratic council members, one would expect that he would not resort to personal attacks, but unfortunately, this is par for the course with our current mayor and Republican councilmembers. I would like to clarify my position on the proposal of a new Borough Hall in Emerson. I clearly stated that the current one is

STAYING FLEXIBLE

Photo courtesy Lois Kohan

HILLSDALE

Lois Kohan, public health nurse for the Hillsdale Board of Health, has been conducting a weekly exercise program for seniors at the Hillsdale House for about 25 years. After the class was suspended in March due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Kohan kept things flexible by moving the program outside onto the patio once the weather warmed in May. “I am now in the sixth month of doing this safely with everyone wearing masks and keeping 6 feet apart,” Kohan tells Pascack Press. “I am extremely proud of these folks for faithfully attending the 45-minute program.” Kohan notes that the social aspect of the program is important and complements the physical benefits. “In addition to the benefit of exercising to stay healthy, they are socializing a little and getting out of their apartments instead of isolating there,” she said. “This is helping their mental as well as their physical health.”

inadequate. I also stated that I suggested to Mayor DiPaola and the council last August that they seek the feedback of our citizens and proposed a referendum on the ballot. Councilman Hoffman, never answered my question, “Why donʼt they want the opinion of Emerson citizens?” There are options that could have been proposed that donʼt require a $12.5 million bond that taxpayers will be responsible to pay back. For example, there is an available, up to date, spacious building in our borough that could have been leased and save millions in taxpayer funding. During this economically difficult time, we need to come up with fiscally responsible solutions. I would also like to remind voters of a quote by Councilman Hoffman when he ran he decided to run as a Republican: “If elected, I will oppose such wasteful spending as the councilʼs recent purchase of two properties for almost $1 million without a plan.” He is referring to the two open lots now serving as a parking lot for commuters. Now due to Covid-19, commuters are working from home, there is unutilized, open space that the mayor and council are ignoring. I will not be afraid to voice my opinion, or vote independently. Emerson needs representation for fiscal responsibility, practical solutions and respect for its citizens and those who serve it. Karen Browne Emerson

Schumacher for Montvale Council

To the editor: I AM ENDORSING Jarret Schumacher for Montvale Council because we need to be proactive to keep Montvale a great place to live. Some of the important issues facing Montvale are affordable housing; a community/senior cen-

ter; infrastructure (sanitary sewer, roads, etc.); recycling and waste management. Jarret is well versed on these issues and as a member of the Mayorʼs Advisory Council he has been active in planning for Montvale's future. Montvale, like every town in New Jersey, needs to provide affordable housing. While we are doing this today, things will change in 2025 when our agreements for affordable housing expire. Jarret knows that we need to start planning now. We also need determine what to do with the site of the former swim club and community center. Jarret knows this and will engage residents to develop these plans. Please think about the future of Montvale, visit Jarretʼs Facebook Page (Jarret for Montvale) and cast your vote for Jarret Schumacher. Robert Zitelli Montvale

Gottheimer and ‘Clinton money’

To the editor: JOSH GOTTHEIMER IS the epitome of the swamp in Washington, D.C. He started in D.C. when he was just 16 years old working for Frank Lautenberg. After college, he immediately went to work for Bill Clinton. At age 23, he worked as a speechwriter in the Clinton Administration. To continue building the political connections that he needed for future leverage, he worked for the presidential campaigns of Wesley Clark, John Kerry and Hillary Clinton. The New York Times called him a “protégé of the Clintons.” His 2015 campaign filings showed that most of his funding came from Clinton Administration alumni. Then he used all that Clinton money to buy his seat in CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

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THESAVVYSENIOR: What Happens to Medicare if Obamacare is overturned?

BY JIM MILLER

Dear Savvy Senior, Will my Medicare benefits be affected if the Supreme Court overt u r n s Obamacare? — Concerned Beneficiary

Dear Concerned, Unfortunately, yes. If the Affordable Care Act (ACA)—also known as Obamacare—gets repealed by the Supreme Court next year, it will weaken Medicare and increase costs for beneficiaries. Here’s what you should know. Approximately 60 million people are covered under Medicare, the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older and people of all ages with disabilities. Even though the main aim of the ACA was to overhaul the health insurance markets, most people don’t realize that the law also touches virtually every part of Medicare. Without the ACA, Medicare beneficiaries will have to pay more for preventive care services, which are now free; they’ll have to pay more toward their prescription drugs; their premiums and deductibles will rise faster; and Medicare will face insolvency much sooner because of lost funding and cost cutting measures. With the help of Kiplinger’s Retirement Report, here is a more detailed breakdown of what happens to Medicare if the court invalidates the law. • Preventive care service s w i l l n o l o n g e r be fre e : Thanks to the ACA, there’s no copayment or deductible for potentially life-saving screenings for cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other illnesses. Flu shots and annual wellness visits are also free. Before the ACA, beneficiaries

had to pay 20 percent of the cost for most preventive care services, after their deductible was met. • The doughnut hole w i l l return: Since 2011 the ACA has been steadily closing the prescription drug coverage gap, also known as the doughnut hole, in Medicare Part D by requiring drug manufacturers and insurers to pick up more of the cost. The hole was finally closed this year with seniors paying 25 percent of the cost for both generic and brand-name medications and manufacturers picking up 70 percent of the tab, while insurers kick in the remaining 5 percent. Before the ACA, seniors paid 100 percent of Part D prescription drug expenses while in the doughnut hole. • Medicare pre m i u m s and deductibles will rise faster: The ACA also curbed Medicare payments to providers to help keep Medicare Part A deductibles and copayments in check. Similarly, Part B premiums and deductibles are much lower than projected before the ACA became law. From 2011 to 2020, Part B premiums increased 23 percent. From 2000 to 2009—the nine years before the law’s passage— Part B premiums rose almost five times faster, increasing 112 percent over that period. • Medicare Advantage plans will be more e x p e ns i v e : The ACA requires Medicare Advantage plans to spend 85 percent of premium dollars on health care, not profits or overhead. The plans also can’t charge more than traditional Medicare for chemotherapy, renal dialysis, skilled nursing care and other specialized services. Those restrictions dramatically lowered costs for Medicare Advantage plan enrollees. Since the ACA became law in 2010, the average Medicare Advantage premium has decreased by 43 percent while enrollment has

WESTWOOD

Riley Senior Center brings back lunch program

The Thomas J. Riley Senior Center is re-opening its lunch program, with all meals—complete and balanced—catered by La Casa Formosa. All meals are $3.50, available for takeout with an option for delivery, to all Westwood House residents. Reserve your lunch the previous day by calling (201) 666-0840. All takeout orders can be picked up through the centerʼs new “takeout window.” Just pull up to the Thomas J. Riley Senior Center and call. Meanwhile, weekly activities

and programs are in full swing at the Thomas J. Riley Senior Center. Make sure to register. All activities and programs are held outdoors, weather permitting. • Monday, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Brain Games. • Tuesday, 11 a.m. to noon. Support Group. • Wednesday, no activities scheduled. • Thursday, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tai Chi With Hasmig. • Friday, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Chair Yoga With Arlene.

increased 117 percent. • I n s o l v e n c y a c c e l e ra t e s : The ACA extended the solvency of the program’s trust fund by eight years to 2026, mostly by finding new sources of revenue and slowing the growth of

payments to all providers. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that reversing those changes would cost the program $700 billion over 10 years, which would make Medicare almost immediate insolvent.

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.

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OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

DR. KAPLAN: ‘Get more oxygen for a healthier, happier brain’

Oxygen helps improve memory To function at its highest levels, the brain needs oxygen, healthy food, and lots of neuronal activation. DR. ERIC KAPLAN, If your body KAPLAN BRAIN & does not have BODY enough oxygen and has too much carbon dioxide, it becomes unhealthy and acidic, instead of healthy and alkaline. If the body is too acidic, it can lead to a weak immune system, headaches, fatigue, weight gain, trouble sleeping, weak bones, tooth pain, poor digestion, inflammation and brain fog. Foods to avoid to reduce the acidity in the body are not necessarily the acidic foods, but more the inflammatory foods like milk, eggs, meat, processed foods, coffee, soda, bagged snacks, canned foods, and deli meats. Foods to consume that make the body more alkaline are kale, broccoli, arugula, spinach, cucumbers, nuts, collards, seeds, legumes, and raisins. So not only can you improve your well-being by breathing properly, you can help improve

your health by eating properly. To really boost your brainpower and improve memory and focus, breathing correctly is vital. The proper way to breathe is a 1:2 ratio of inhale to exhale. If you inhale for two seconds, it is best to exhale for four seconds. Perform this breathing exercise five times and then repeat it three times a day for one week. The following week, extend your inhalation to three seconds and your exhalation to six seconds. The next week, inhale for four seconds and exhale for eight seconds. Repeat this process all the way up to inhaling for eight seconds and exhaling for 16 seconds. Interestingly, a quick at home test to see you if you should get tested for Covid-19 is a breathing test. If you are worried you have Covid19, the first step is to see if you can hold your breath for 10 seconds. If you cannot do that, then see if you can smell peanut butter. Then take your temperature. If you also have a high temperature, call your doctor immediately, report the results of all three at home tests you performed, and then proceed as recommended by your doctor. Be careful in googling covid “cures” should you test positive.

The best way to prevent sickness from Covid-19, the flu, or any other microorganisms you are exposed to is to take good care of your brain and body so you are really strong, healthy, and resilient. One of the best ways to do that is to improve oxygenation. Since the brain needs oxygen to function, it is best to breathe from your diaphragm, as the body intended. As you inhale, it is best to push your stomach down and out like a pregnant belly. Try not to breathe from your shoulders or your chest. Keep your chin up slightly. Bring back your shoulders as you take the large inhale. When you exhale, bring your stomach in and tighten your core. This will maximize oxygen intake, improve posture, reduce anxiety, and increase core stability. Moreover, to ensure youʼre getting enough oxygen, add high oxygen-producing plants in and around your household. The best of these are money plants, snake plants, spider plants, aloe vera, gerbera daisies, areca palms, and Chinese evergreens. If you have yard space, I recommend planting lots of trees. One tree produces enough oxygen for

More locations for fall Covid-19 testing

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco announces additional locations for the Bergen County Regional Community Testing Program, which is available to all county residents thanks to a partnership between the County of Bergen and Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. All testing locations this fall will offer COVID-19 saliva tests and flu vaccinations.

Residents can pre-register for their test at a Regional Community Mobile Testing site through an online portal to receive priority processing. To pre-register, visit www.BergenCOVIDTesting.com. Please note, residents who choose to pre-register for testing must bring their mobile device for check-in. Here are the next regional mobile testing sites, dates, and com-

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munity partners in Pascack Pressʼs circulation area: • Wednesday, Oct. 28 (rescheduled). Ramsey with Mahwah, Upper Saddle River, Saddle River, Allendale, Montvale. 1 Erie Plaza, Ramsey. • Friday, Oct. 30. River Vale with Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Park Ridge, Township of Washington, Westwood, Woodcliff Lake. River Vale Town Hall, 406 Rivervale Road, River Vale. Dates are subject to change without notice. Site hours, unless otherwise noted, are 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for the general public and 1:30

five people. Another important factor that drastically affects breathing is paying attention to your posture. Many adults and children have bad breathing habits and poor posture due to “text neck”—theyʼre so often looking down at their devices. Not only does this cause poor posture, it decreases their oxygen levels, and that can lead to anxiety, depression, low energy, headaches, neck pain, hunchback, and difficulty concentrating. One home exercise you can do to help combat this problem is to stand up, look up, and roll your shoulders back in big circles for 30 seconds. Perform this posture exercise at least three times a day. We see lots of patients improve their posture by getting spinal manipulative therapy that realigns their spine to help improve posture. As the posture improves, the amount of oxygen usually increases, as well. When there is a lack of oxygen to the brain this can lead to headaches and dizziness. One condition, POTS, can cause the heart to beat really fast. These patients usually get very lightheaded and can even pass out if they transition too quickly from a lying or seated posi-

tion to a standing position. For this problem, a table tilt test can help to diagnose it and a functional neurologist can help determine if there is dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. You can ask your doctor if that is appropriate for you. Because your brain health depends on oxygen, it is important to monitor your oxygen levels. You can check it frequently with a pulse oximeter. Many believe that your blood oxygen saturation should be above 94 or 95 percent, but in my opinion it should be at 98 percent or higher because it will increase your energy, vitality, and help make your immune system stronger. If you or someone you know are interested in learning about ways like this to naturally improve your memory and focus without drugs or surgery, attend our Zoom lecture “Secrets on How to Improve Memory and Focus,” on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 6:30 p.m. Call (201) 261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com today to reserve your spot. For more information, visit Kaplan Brain and Body on Facebook.

to 2:30 p.m. priority hour for public school staff/faculty. For updates, visit co.bergen.nj.us. Mobile testing is available to all county residents free of charge, regardless of health insurance status. Residents can get tested at any regional community testing location and all community mobile testing sites will offer the COVID-19 saliva test and flu vaccination. The COVID-19 saliva test is available to all county residents regardless of symptoms, as well as first responders, healthcare workers, public school teachers, and munici-

pal or county employees who work in Bergen County with proof of employment. For the COVID-19 saliva test, please do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum 30 minutes prior to arrival. Identification is necessary so please bring your driverʼs license/ID card, school identification card, social security card, passport, or birth certificate. Proof of Bergen County residency or that you work in Bergen County is required so please bring your driverʼs license, utility bill, pay stub, or work ID. If you have an insurance card, that with you.

Congress. In fact, his first race for Congress was the most expensive Congressional race in New Jersey history. It seems if we let him, Josh will become another career politician who somehow banks millions while only ever holding a public service job. This is one of many reasons why we need to elect a Washington, D.C. outsider and term limit advocate Frank Pallotta to Congress. Matthew Viola River Vale Editorʼs note: On his House of Representatives page in 2017, Rep. Josh Gottheimer said of his time as a speechwriter for President Bill Clinton, “It was an enormous honor. It was a great front seat on the political and legislative process at a young age. I was really lucky. Itʼs an intense job. Everyoneʼs got lots of opinions, the policy people have their point of view. But at the end of the day, someoneʼs actually got to put it down on paper.” He added, “I was 22 when I started doing this. If I had been aware of the enormity of it, now that I think about, I probably would have been much more intimidated. President Clinton, in terms of people to work for, is smart and someone who shaped my politics and policy thinking a lot. He was a moderate centrist, someone who was fiscally more responsible and socially progressive and he really believes that youʼre supposed to work with both sides and you can find the best ideas by actually looking to both sides and putting together a good centrist approach.”

FROM PAGE 18

Reps laud change at vets’ home

To the editor: U.S. Reps. Bill Pascrell Jr. (D-9) and Josh Gottheimer (D-5) on Oct. 19 praised the replacement of Paramus Veterans Home CEO Matthew Schottlander by Gov. Phil Murphy. In a joint press statement under the title “Needed accountability at DMAVA, veterans homes for unspeakable deaths,” they said the following: TODAYʼS ANNOUNCEMENT is a long time coming. The explosion of COVID-19 demanded transparency, honesty, cooperation, and competency, and the people in charge at the state-run Paramus Veterans Home and elsewhere provided none of these. Eighty-one of our veterans and seniors perished because of the negligence and failure of the Paramus Veterans Home leadership. It is one of the gravest tragedies of this pandemic. Their deaths were preventable. Here today is a measure of accountability to the families who lost loved ones. We applaud the State of New Jersey for removing the leadership. It cannot stop here. We need a full report of what happened so that we can improve policies to ensure a tragedy like this wonʼt ever be repeated. Pascrell and Gottheimer have led calls for an investigation at the Paramus home since the outset of the coronavirus crisis. At their urging, the federal Veterans Affairs department sent 56 health care workers to support the facility. Infectious disease experts were

Mayors: Ease NJ limit on indoor dining

To the editor: THE 10 MAYORS of the Pascack Valley are appealing once again to Gov. Phil Murphy to take steps to safeguard the existence of our local restaurant businesses and protect the livelihood of their employees. In September, the governor approved indoor dining at 25% capacity. This was welcome news coming after the towns in the Pascack Valley had already relaxed zoning restrictions that permitted outdoor dining. However, many dining establishments will not be able to survive financially with this limitation during the approaching cold weather months. Here in Hillsdale, we have extended the outdoor dining season to the end of November. However, the realities of complying with safety restrictions embedded in our fire and construction codes for propane/electric heaters, and the sharply lower evening temperatures make it unlikely that restaurants will be able to cover costs unless indoor dining is expanded. Our neighbors to the north in

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Rockland County have safely operated at a 50% indoor capacity for several months. Our local restaurants need to be able to compete, so long as proper virus prevention measures are observed. We are asking the governor to allow 50% capacity indoors. Hillsdale Mayor John J. Ruocco Editorʼs note: We have posted the mayorsʼ Oct. 16 letter to Gov. Murphy on our website. Itʼs signed by Skip Kelley, executive director of the Pascack Valley Mayorsʼ Association, and the mayors of Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Old Tappan, Oradell, Park Ridge, River Vale, Township of Washington, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake. For this and much more local news, views, and features, visit thepressgroup.net.

Endorsing Phillips in Montvale

To the editor: I AM ENDORSING Dolores Phillips for Montvale Council. Dolores has been a resident of Montvale for 20 years. She is employed by the Bergen County Board of Social Services. She is president of CWA Local 1089, which represents professional and non-professional staff. Dolores also is the founder/CEO of a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, the Mayor Lizette P. Parker Memorial Foundation. CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

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Letters:

also sent to Paramus to prevent spread of the virus at their request in April. The two congressmen visited the home in May and last month participated in a House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing on coronavirus and veterans homes. James Adams, Communications Director, Office of Rep. Josh Gottheimer

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

CLAIM BENEFITS SOONER OR LATER?

Editorʼs note: The following article is for informational purposes only. When it comes to Social Security and retireERIC KOHLMEIER ment, you may have conflicting viewpoints: On one side, you hope to start collecting your benefits as soon as youʼre eligible—after all, itʼs your hard-earned money. On the other side, you know that, if you wait, your monthly benefit amount will increase. While it does make sense to

wait as long as you can, Rob Arthur, first vice president/manager of the Federal Benefits Consulting Group, Wells Fargo Advisors, recommends you reevaluate your situation every year in retirement before deciding whether to continue delaying getting benefits. One item you need for that annual retirement review: a current copy of your Social Security benefit estimate from ssa.gov. This provides personalized estimates of future benefits based on your real earnings and lets you see your latest statement and your earnings history. Here, Arthur outlines a com-

parison of claiming now vs. later, and offers key considerations as you review your strategy each year. Comparison: Claiming sooner vs. later. Letʼs start with a hypothetical example: John Doe was born in 1960 and was earning $200,000 a year when he retired. He decided to start receiving Social Security benefits as soon as he became eligible at 62, or five years before he would receive full retirement benefits. His monthly benefit in todayʼs dollars is $2,106. If he had delayed receiving benefits until he was 70, heʼd receive $1,700 more a month, or $3,806. And he would make up for

the eight-year delay in not taking any benefits in about 10 years. (And because one out of every four 65-year-olds today will live past age 90, according to the Social Security Administration1, the longterm benefit could be substantial.) Make wellness a deciding factor. Your health can play a big role in helping determine when you should start taking benefits. Do your loved ones live long lives, or has everyone succumbed to illness before age 65? “Itʼs not the most accurate indicator of whatʼs going to transpire in the future, but it can have some bearing,” Arthur says. “If youʼre in reasonably good health, that counsels in favor of waiting,” he continues. “If youʼre in poor or guarded health, that counsels toward drawing benefits sooner rather than later.” Do you have enough income? Another key factor is having other sources of income to live comfortably in retirement without needing Social Security benefits. He says you should consider the guaranteed rate of return Social Security offers: 6.25% (plus a cost-of-living increase). Thatʼs better than the guaranteed rate of return available in todayʼs market. Considerations for married couples. Arthur advises married clients look at multiple factors when determining the timing for each spouse to claim Social Security benefits. For example, if your spouse works full time and you work part time or seasonally, his or her Social Security benefits may be dramatically higher than yours. Itʼs still wise for both of you to wait, if possible. “Not only does it increase the size of the benefit that the [higherearning] individual personally receives, but it also increases the size of whatʼs known as the sur-

vivorʼs benefit that the [lowerearning] spouse could draw if the individual passes away,” Arthur says. Keep in mind that the current average life expectancy of a 65year-old man is 84 years, while a woman that age can expect to live until age 86, according to the Social Security Administration. What about taxes? When it comes to when to claim Social Security benefits, Arthur advises his clients not to focus primarily on the tax ramifications. “The vast majority of people that I counsel, their marginal tax rate in retirement will be fairly constant,” Arthur says. “If retirees were to take their Social Security benefit at 62, what I typically see is their marginal tax rate is exactly the same or approximately the same as it would be if they claimed the benefit at age 70. I want [them] to focus instead on maximizing the net cash flow over the remainder of their lifetime.” Global Investment Strategy is a division of Wells Fargo Investment Institute, Inc. (“WFII”). WFII is a registered investment adviser and wholly-owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo & Company and provides investment advice to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Wells Fargo Advisors and other Wells Fargo affiliates. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. is a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, senior financial advisor, managing director—investments in Park Ridge, (201) 505-0472. Investments in securities and insurance products are not FDICinsured/not bank-guranteed/may lost value. Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

PARK RIDGE

Diversity Committee seeks members

The Borough of Park Ridge is establishing a Diversity Committee to advise the administration. Volunteers willing to meet regularly and make recommenda-

tions related to diversity and inclusion in Park Ridge are welcome. Anyone interested should send their contact information to jfalkenstern@parkridgeboro.com.

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School districts, families take wallop as Covid-19 spreads without putting it to a board vote or conferring with parents or district mayors. According to Health Officer Gina M. Behre on Oct. 21, “Last Thursday, the COVID-19 activity level (CALI Index) in Bergen County was elevated from low to moderate. The moderate distinction is the first time, since the initial peak, that the entire State of New Jersey is designated with this activity level.” She said, “We have been actively investigating close to 20 new COVID-19 cases in the Township of Washington, and close to 30 new cases in the Borough of Westwood, since 9/30/20. Currently, we are monitoring a total of eight cases identified in the school community. We have multiple cohorts in quarantine. Our investigations are still underway, which could potentially expand the list of quarantined individuals.” Gonzalez wrote families, “The move to remote instruction is just one step to lower the transmission potential in our community. For this to be effective, it is imperative that everyone do their part by remaining vigilant and sensible in their approach to dealing with this public health concern.” He added, “PLEASE adhere to mask wearing, handwashing, and social distancing protocols in all your personal, social, and

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

It was predicted, and itʼs here. Cases of Covid-19 are on the rise in the United States, and school districts in the Pascack Valley as elsewhere are being advised to be very careful to curtail the growth of the pandemic. Without giving details over privacy concerns, the Westwood Regional School District announced on the afternoon of Sunday, Oct. 18 that its K-12 schools would suspend its schedule of hybrid instruction and go fully remote for two weeks, through Monday, Nov. 2 The Borough of Westwood promptly followed suit, “pausing” its rec departmentʼs K-12 offerings for 48 hours, then matching the districtʼs two-week shutdown on K-12. On Monday, Oct. 19, an hour before classes were to start, Pascack Hills High School went fully remote as well, cancelling all extracurricular activities. Pascack Valley High School is under remote learning until Oct. 28. Woodcliff Middle School closed for two weeks in September after positive cases were reported. In the Westwood regional school community, Superintendent Raymond A. Gonzalez is being lauded for listening to expert advice in keeping kids, families, and staff safe. Heʼs also taking heat from parents who say the administration should not have shut facilities

SAYING “WE’RE NOT TEACHERS,” a small group of working parents took to the grounds in front of the Westwood Regional School District offices on Oct. 19 to protest the administration’s closure of all school facilities. Physical classes could resume on Monday, Nov. 2.

recreational activities.” Gonzalez said he made his decision after a briefing from the Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission (NWBRHC), the local health department, which he said was investigating additional cases in the community over the weekend “and reached out to me to set up a video conference at 2 p.m. on Sunday to discuss their concerns and a plan of action.” He said, “An hour later, the

Board of Education was notified, and less than after that, the community was notified.” On Monday afternoon a small group of working parents took up protest signs on Ridgewood Road outside the school, in the Township of Washington, to air their grievances. “Weʼre looking for actual numbers of cases in the district. Weʼre not looking for names, just numbers. If thereʼs an increase in

numbers, that would justify shutting it down,” said Anthony Greco, who has three kids in the schools: one at the regional middle school and two at Brookside Elementary in Westwood. Pascack Valley Regional School District Superintendent P. Erik Gundersen emailed parents, saying officials were made aware of a case in the community around 7:40 a.m. Monday. — Staff report

PARK RIDGE

Post 153 honors borough’s war dead on Veterans Day, Nov. 11

Cpl. Jedh C. Barker American Legion Post 153 will observe the 101st Veterans Day observance on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 118 Ridge Ave. beginning at 11:58 a.m. Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna and Post Commander Steve Stewart will read the names of the 27 Park Ridge servicemen who have died serving our country. “Taps” will be rendered following the presentation of memorial wreaths and benediction offered by Reverend Vincent DʼAgostino of Our Lady of Mercy

parish. This is a rain or shine even. The time of the evet is significant, as thatʼs when the Armistice ending fighting on the Western Front of World War I was first signed, reports Dick Bozzone, a post past commander and historian, and Robert Oppelt, third vice commander and co-chairman of the event. The outdoors, rain or shine observance honors Sgt. Henry Nicholas John Gunther, a “doughboy” from the 26th Infantry Division. Gunther, from Baltimore,

likely was the last soldier of any of the belligerents to be killed during World War I. He was killed at

10:59 a.m., about a minute before the Armistice was to take effect. According to historians, Gun-

ther had recently been demoted and was seeking to regain his rank just before the war ended.

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All are invited to join in a ceremony to officially rename Ridgewood Road, a portion of which is also in Westwood, as Vito “Pal” Trause Way in honor of the local legendʼs selfless service, life-long legacy, and for representing true patriotism to our country. The event is Saturday, Oct. 31, from 11 a.m. to noon. Organizers said on Facebook, “Please gather in front of the high school near the elec-

tronic sign. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early, practice social distancing, and wear a mask.” The township and Bergen County—and so many others— lost a friend when WWII veteran Trause, 94, died Oct. 31, 2019. According to Mayor Peter Calamari that Nov. 1, the loss was tremendous. Trause, a former German prisoner of war “was the fabric of this community, its heart and its soul,” he said.

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Library Calendar

montvalelibrarynj.org • Ms. Maryʼs Reading to Write is an informative video series featuring tips and techniques to improve your childʼs writing skills. New videos are posted each Monday in October on the libraryʼs Facebook. • Zoom to the Moon is a virtual Zoom storytime for children ages 2 and up. The program meets FROM PAGE 13

Thursday, Oct. 29 at 10:30 a.m. for a special Halloween program. Wear your costume for stories and fun. • Weʼve all heard that houses and people can be haunted, but what about objects? Can spirits be drawn to material objects? Join ghost investigator Linda Zimmermann in a spine-chilling lecture, “Haunted Objects,” to find out! Thursday, Oct. 29 from 7–8 p.m.

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Register on the libraryʼs website. • The Monday Morning Book Group will meet Nov. 2 at 10:30 a.m. to discuss “Daughter of Molokai” by Alan Brennert. To join, call Lorissa at (201) 3915090 or email lorissa.lightman@montvale.bccls.org. Provide your name, phone number, and BCCLS Library barcode number. • Save the date: The Classics Book Group will discuss “The Age of Innocence” by Edith Wharton when members meet virtually on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. New members are welcome. Email Lorissa Lightman at lorissa.lightman@montvale.bccls.org.

PARK RIDGE 51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org • Join James Mokarry for an hour of Virtual Chair Yoga on Monday, Oct. 26 at 10 a.m. Class is geared toward adults (seniors, get in on this) but all are invited to join in. Stretch, breathe, realign and focus from the comfort of your home. Find this class on the libraryʼs Facebook page: Park Ridge Public Library-NJ. • Miss Renee Reads the Classics for Kids on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Visit the libraryʼs Facebook for the best classic books in kid-friendly versions. • Storytime with Miss Sherri runs Thursdays at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook page (Park Ridge Public Library-NJ). Stories, songs and a craft for little ones. • Crafts with Miss Renee is every Friday at 10:30 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook. You must call the library the Monday—Thursday before the craft to reserve your craft kit and it must be picked up that day. All ages are invited as Miss Renee walks you through a fun craft at home. • Join Miss Eileen every

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Saturday for the Book It Club. Stories, science and more geared towards kids in primary grades. Takes place on the libraryʼs Facebook page Saturdays at 10 a.m.

RIVER VALE 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org • This week brings a special Halloween Craft-to-go for kids in pre-K through fifth grade. Stop by the library to pick up a haunted house or spooky tree craft to complete at home. Supplies are limited. Crafts are first come, first served. • Virtual Chair Yoga meets via Zoom every Tuesday at 11 a.m. This gentle form of yoga is designed for seniors and people with disabilities. Visit the libraryʼs website to register. • Bookworms Story Time Club (grades K–1) is a special virtual book club for early readers. On Tuesday, Oct. 27 from 4 to 4:30 p.m., the group gathers on Zoom to celebrate Italian-American Heritage Month with a readaloud of “Strega Nona” by Tomie DePaola. Pick up your corresponding activity bag at the childrenʼs desk. Your child should complete the activity prior to the program in order to share with the group. Run by Ashley Diaz and Daniela Rey for their Girl Scout Silver Award Project on diversity and inclusion. Pre-registration required; find link on the libraryʼs website. • Teen Talks Book Club (grades 6–8) will discuss “Serafina and the Black Cloak” by Robert Beatty. Meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, Oct. 28 from 4 to 5 p.m. Registration required to access the meeting. • Get in the Halloween mood with a spooktacular evening of ghost stories with author and founder of the NJ Ghost Hunters Society, LʼAura Hladik Hoffman. LʼAura has updates on some

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famously haunted sites contained in the books “Ghosthunting New Jersey” (2008) and “Ghosthunting New York City” (2010). Hear about more recent ghostly activity at these locales. Meets via Zoom on Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 7 p.m. Register online. • Scheduling note: The library is closed on Friday, Oct. 30 because of the mobile COVID19 testing clinic at the River Vale Town Hall.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586 twpofwashingtonpl.org • Preschool Storytime runs Mondays at 10 a.m. for ages 2 and up. Stories, songs, and crafts based on a fun weekly theme. Sign up online to pick up a bag of crafts to last four weeks at a time. Links for storytimes will be posted on the libraryʼs website and social media. • Halloween Chapter a Week (teens) is each Monday at 3:30 p.m. Join Allyssa on YouTube as she reads a chapter from some of the most popular scary stories and thrillers from the libraryʼs Teen Room collection. • On Mondays at 7:30 p.m., join instructor Jacki for a Virtual Yoga Class. Follow along at your own pace in this class that is great for all abilities and skill levels. Registration information available on the libraryʼs website. • STEAM Thursdays, a program for school-age kids, is every Thursday at 4 p.m. Lego challenges, books, crafts, experiments, and cooking—each week itʼs something new! Links will be posted on Facebook and YouTube as well as the libraryʼs website. • Friday Friends, a storytime for babies and toddlers up to 2 runs Fridays at 10 a.m. Rhymes, songs, and a short story. Sign up online to pick up an early literacy bag with a scarf and shaker to join in. Links posted on the libraryʼs website and social media. • Do you have a favorite holiday recipe? Share it during the Washington Township Libraryʼs Holiday Recipe Swap! Submit your recipe along with a paragraph telling the story of the recipe and a photo of the finished product or of you or your family enjoying this special treat. The library will compile the recipes and make a digital Township Holiday Cookbook. Send recipes to allyssa.battaglia@washingtontwp.bccls.org by Nov. 2. CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

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Three common DIY mistakes to avoid

Pride tends to swell when homeowners successfully complete do-it-yourself projects on their homes. In addition to saving homeowners money, DIY projects provide a unique way for men and women to personally connect with their homes. The ability to look at a finished project and say itʼs a result of your own handiwork can make a home feel more your own. As fun and fulfilling as DIY projects can be, they also can be nerve-wracking and induce anxiety. When DIY projects falter, fixing them can prove costly, as homeowners typically must call in contractors to correct their mistakes and get a project back on track. That results in additional labor and material costs that might have been avoidable, especially for homeowners who make an effort to avoid some common DIY mistakes. 1. Failure to secure permits Even though homeowners own their homes, that does not mean they have carte blanche to do what they want with them. Many renovation projects require homeowners to secure permits before projects can commence. Some may even require additional permits as the projects advance. If

proper permits are not secured, homeowners may be fined and projects may be nixed, regardless of how much money homeowners have spent up to that point. Before beginning a home renovation project, homeowners should always contact their local permit office to determine if any permits are required. Bankrate.com notes that permits are often required for any project larger than painting or wallpapering. 2. Overestimating your abilities DIY television shows make home renovation projects look easy, but reality suggests otherwise. Homeowners with little or no experience renovating a home may want to take classes before they think about starting a project on their own. Even online tutorials tend to make jobs appear easier than they are. Roofing and plumbing projects tend to be best left to the professionals, as these projects can be either dangerous or vulnerable to disaster if not addressed by trained professionals. 3. Incorrect materials Whether itʼs to save money or

Library Calendar FROM PAGE 24

WESTWOOD 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org • Kids in grades 3–5 can sign up for a spooky Virtual Field Trip to the Paris Catacombs on Monday, Oct. 26 from 4–4:45 p.m. Using Google Meet, kids will visit the quarry and understand why it was built below the city and why it became a cemetery under the streets of Paris. The group will visit this site using high grade virtual, 360-degree videos and then make a quick craft. The library provides the craft kit and lets you know when you can pick it up. • Story Time Science (grades K–2) is on Instagram Live Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 4 p.m. In this combination story time and science program, kids hear a brief fairy tale and then observe a simple related experiment. • The Westwood Library holds an Outdoor Halloween Mask-e-Rade Craft (grades K–5) in the parking lot on Thursday, Oct. 29 from 3:30 to 4 p.m.

Grades K–2 and grades 3–5 will each have their own easy-to-do mask craft. Participants must wear a mask and hand sanitize before and after. One craft per registered child. Sign up on the libraryʼs website. • A genealogy webinar, “Finding Your Female Ancestors,” runs on Zoom on Thursday, Oct. 29 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. It can be difficult to track down

WHEN DIY PROJECTS FALTER, fixing them can prove costly, as homeowners typically must call in contractors to correct their mistakes and get a project back on track. Many home renovation proja byproduct of inexperience, appropriate materials. Incorrect DIYers do not always choose the materials can be a sunken cost that ects can be completed without the correct materials for a job. Experi- derails a project, but even jobs com- help of professional contractors., enced contractors have ample expe- pleted using incorrect materials especially when homeowners take rience working with all sorts of may need to be redone a lot more steps to avoid some of the more materials and are therefore in a quickly than those that employed common mistakes made by DIYers. unique position to recommend the the right materials the first time. best materials for any given job. That resource is not available for DIYers, who must perform ample research before beginning a job so the project involves the most

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Parking: Contract with OLGC passes, pending ‘fix’

REAL ESTATE

mari reported that “We have run out of time and options to find a temporary home in the township for the [Department of Municipal Facilities] while the soil is being remediated and a new facility is constructed.” He said, “We will start exploring out-of-town options later this week.” (For more, see “Intersection Fix, DMF Soil Remediation Among 2019 Priorities,” Jan. 21, 2019.) On Oct. 5, Administrator Robert Tovo told councilmembers

FROM PAGE 1

that he has secured estimates for DPW building demolition, which fall below the $44,000 bid threshold, after which competitive bids are required. Tovo said, however, that the required remediation work will need to be bid out as one estimate involved in well monitoring was over the bid threshold. (Note: The township recently changed the name of its works department from Department of Municipal Facilities to Department of Public Works.) Meanwhile, an extension of the soil remediation deadline that

Township Attorney Kenneth Poller requested has yet to be approved. Poller told Council President Stacey Feeney that he was not sure how long an extension might be granted, but Feeney estimated it might be 60 to 90 days. Feeney urged the council to pass a resolution on a contract with OLGC, at 688 Ridgewood Road, for parking department vehicles and supplies there to avoid risking missing the deadline and incurring a fine. Terms appear to have town vehicles and equipment parked

WESTWOOD

Parking Authority meets Oct. 27

A meeting of the Westwood Parking Authority is set for 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 27 at the Westwood Municipal Building, 101 Washington Ave. For safety, the public is welcome to attend only by Zoom. At the meeting, members will do much more than approve the minutes of Sept. 22; theyʼll also approve disbursements as listed for payment, update on the ParkMobile App after implementation, discuss the status of the budget for submission to the state,

and continue discussion on holiday lighting options—so that a decision can be made and lighting installed by Thanksgiving. Theyʼll also tackle any other business that may properly come before the authority. Anyone who would like to be part of the meeting via Zoom may do so by using this Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/843427 30870?pwd=UnJ1WUhBVEtTeD VXbHpRMkFGTEN2dz09

Note meeting ID 843 4273 0870, passcode 821454, and optional dial-in number (929) 2056099. For more information on the ParkMobile App and how you can start to use contactless payment at select spots downtown, see our Oct. 5 story “Pay for parking touch-free; Westwood rolls out app option downtown.” For more information on the Westwood Parking Authority, visit westwoodnj.gov/249/ParkingAuthority.

on church grounds at $2,500 per month through June 2022 The administration reportedly plans to move ahead with demolition when its vehicles are moved out. Whether alternate parking facilities were adequate to handle the public works vehicles and equipment requiring storage was uncertain. The council authorized Calamari and Tovo to meet with the DPW superintendent and look into an alternate site, behind The Dog House Saloon & Grill, on Pascack Road, before approving the agreement with OLGC. Trees are marked for felling in the area. Councilman Michael DeSena cast the no-vote, against four ayes, on authorizing the administration to investigate alternate parking before it signed off on the OLGC contract. Pascack Press filed a records request with the town to get a copy of the OLGC contract, but this was denied on the grounds that it constituted “inter-agency, intraagency, advisory, consultative and/or deliberative material.” Town Clerk Susan Witkowski clarified, “The agreement was approved by resolution 20-299 subject to finalizing one term of the agreement. Therefore, it is still denied… Once [itʼs] clarified, I will be able to release the accurate document.” She could not say which term of the deal was at issue. Councilmembers weighed two resolutions Oct. 5 to provide parking for public vehicles and equipment. They approved Resolution 298, which allows town workers and municipal vehicles to park at Valley National Bank at 370 Pascack Road for the duration of soil remediation work at the DPW site, from Oct. 6

through Dec. 31, 2021. The bank was offering parking to the township at no charge. DeSena charged that the resolution to pay OLCG was being sprung on councilmembers. Feeney and others noted the issue had been discussed in a closed session. Poller said the parking lease at OLGC—where Calamariʼs father, August, is a trustee—had been negotiated “several times.” DeSena said he had concerns with the OLGC agreement, which requires the township maintain the churchʼs walkways, sidewalks, and driveways, undertake repairs, and pave the lots. “And we have to pay them to do it, too,” he said. Councilwoman Desserie Morgan said she felt $2,500 a month was “a lot” to charge for storing equipment. DeSena noted if parking at OLGC were free, as Valley National Bank had offered, heʼd have no problem approving the agreement. Feeney countered DeSena, saying $2,500 per month “is not a lot” for renting parking spaces to store large vehicles and equipment. She said that in her experience, renting such space can cost $5,000 to $7,000 per month. DeSena and Councilman Steven Cascio both questioned her estimates. DeSena said that he believed negotiations for alternate DPW parking locations were ongoing with Westwood, Bergen County, and Stop & Shop, and they were not kept apprised that these had not worked out. “Weʼre getting this [agreement] dumped on us tonight,” he said.

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BOE: ‘Stability,’ ‘Covid’ — school races in focus

REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS

protecting our most vulnerable citizens” from volunteer work in the Battered Womenʼs Justice Center and as a district attorney prosecuting sex crimes and domestic violence. “Gia is passionate about advocating for children and upon having her two boys, now 12 and 8, her unique skill set came in handy as she pursued an IEP for her oldest son and navigated the school system to ensure his needs were met,” reads her Facebook page. During the pandemic, she said, she will petition for outdoor classrooms in warmer weather to limit childrenʼs exposure to coronavirus. Incumbent Justin Saxon is also running, unopposed for an unexpired one-year term.

River Vale Incumbent River Vale school board Vice President Steven Rosini, a 10-year trustee, told Pascack Press he was “seeking anoth-

er term to continue the stability and progress that has been essential to the districtʼs success. Rosini has lived in River Vale two decades, and with his wife has raised three children who attended local schools. He has also coached softball and soccer. “While we all want only the best for our children, I have had to balance my ideals with the reality of fiscal responsibility and my obligation to the members of this community that their taxes are well spent,” Rosini told Pascack Press. He added, “I have chaired the Negotiations Committee for many years and we have reached fair settlements with our building staff, teachers and administrators during that time. We have done this despite unfunded mandates from the state and ever increasing expenses.” He said, “And, we have always done this while remaining under the state cap.”

PASCACK VALLEY

Incumbent Pintarelli, a 20year resident, has been a school trustee since 2015. Her three children went through River Vale schools. She has a masterʼs in education and has taught in the Bronx, as well as grades 2–4 in River Edge for 15 years. She has served as the PTAʼs liaison to the school board, volunteering in schools, teaching religious education and volunteering at the food pantry at St. Andrewʼs, Westwood. “I want to ensure that the children of River Vale continue to receive an excellent education that is based on high standards and sound pedagogical practices while remaining fiscally responsible,” she told Pascack Press. Incumbent Jason Schlereth and challenger Carmen J. Martin did not submit statements to Pascack Press by press time.

Emerson In Emerson, two candidates, Ann Pressimone and Jeremy M Tiegen, are running unopposed for two open school board seats.

Montvale In Montvale, two incumbents are running unopposed for three open three-year seats: John F. Carvelli and Rachel Baskin. Christopher Colla is running unopposed for an unexpired one-year term.

Park Ridge In Park Ridge, one candidate, Natlaie Jowett Agoos, is running unopposed for one of three open seats on the school board.

Woodcliff Lake In Woodcliff Lake, two candidates, Kristan Saks and Lysbeth Espinosa, are running unopposed for two open school board seats.

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

Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley is pleased to announce the next virtual foursession Tutor Training Workshop runs Nov. 10 and 17 and Dec. 1 and 8, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Volunteers must be 18 or older. Itʼs easy to register. Write to literacyvolunteerspv@gmail .com or visit literacyvolunteerspv.org/tutor-training-workshopform.html.

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years ago because of the quality education she knew would be offered in local K-8 schools. She said she would advocate “for necessary improvements to our facilities, and to provide critical tools to our students and their teachers.” She said her background in management and development for production companies provided her with experience in budgeting, hiring, contract negotiations, and communicating with individuals, including union members. “With all that has transpired in the last year, nothing has inspired me more than our children. Their endless positivity and resilience, no matter the circumstances, motivated me to put my name on the ballot,” Morrison told Pascack Press. Gia C. Guzmanʼs Facebook page noted she has lived in Hillsdale for 11 years, and for 25 years has been involved in “serving and

FROM PAGE 7

BEST FOOT FORWARD!

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

HILLSDALE

HILLSDALE FIREFIGHTERS drilled in a residential structure slotted for demolition in early October. They practiced traditional bailout and bailing out of a window onto a ladder. It’s a head-first maneuver that pivots to a right-side-up recovery. Chief Tom Kelley told Pascack Press, “These guys took time out on their Sunday to practice something we hope to never use.” Around the same time, the Hillsdale Fire Department hosted a group of homeschooled kids for a tour of the station. Cadet Aidan Peterson, 17 (above) and other volunteers instructed the kids in the basics of fire safety and the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community. Photos courtesy Hillsdale Fire Department

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tions, the seller is responsible for environmental clean up costs. Here the town undertook the responsibility to clean up a site that was a nursery and was previously a gas station, basically creating a situation where the town can have a very high cost exposure for the clean up. Additionally, we took a property that was on the tax rolls and removed it. The park will have limited or no parking meaning that residents will need to park on the other side of Werimus Road and cross the road with no traffic control devices there. It could create a dangerous situation. Due to Covid-19, we, like many municipalities, are facing reductions in our revenue. I would like to address shared services agreements with our neighboring towns to provide needed cost savings without the need to reduce services. We also need to think long term about keeping WCL a great place for people to live and raise families, perhaps by creating a Woodcliff Lake Village on the Hilton property. My vision is an upscale mixed use development of housing, shops and restaurants with outdoor plazas for residents and visitors to congregate. Thatʼs post-Covid, of course.

FROM PAGE 10

M I C H A E L CASALE IS a management employee of Consolidated Edisonʼs subsidiary Orange and Rockland Utilities in MICHAEL Rockland CounCASALE (R) ty, N.Y. He manages a team responsible for overseeing capital improvement projects and the safe delivery of New York and New Jersey energy services. Mr. Casale is dedicated to preserving Woodcliff Lakeʼs open space environment and opposes overdevelopment of our quaint borough. Mr. Casale is a strong advocate for responsible master planning of Woodcliff Lakeʼs future and has the financial acumen to soundly serve in the communityʼs best interest. Mr. Casale is active in the community and has served as both head coach and assistant coach for the boyʼs youth baseball and basketball teams and is looking forward to coaching his daughterʼs softball team. Mr. Casale is a four-year resident of Woodcliff Lake, where he resides with his wife and their two children. He received his bachelor of science in business management from Manhattan College, his masterʼs degree in construction management from NYU Poly and an MBA in finance from St. Peters University. Valley Chabad has been a trusted resident of Woodcliff Lake for several years and their involve-

ment with the community speaks to the diversity within the borough. Of the many things that make Woodcliff Lake such a special place is their acceptance of all religions, whether it be Lutheran, Jehovah Witness, Catholicism or Judaism. While itʼs unfortunate that a legal action had to take place, it is my view that if Woodcliff Lake had a current and comprehensive Master Plan that depicts current land uses, and guides decisions for growth and conservation, Woodcliff Lake wouldnʼt have been subjected to misinterpretation as to what our plan is for properties in question. Looking forward, there is much more to resolve, and I believe it is the responsibility of a councilmember to work on repairing a fractured relationship with the goal of achieving a result that works for all parties. The remediation work for Galaxy Gardens has taken too long. Efforts to oversee the project has stalled and while I can understand that managing ones professional and personal life can be hectic and adding council responsibilities seems impossible to achieve, every council member has an obligation to the residents to see projects to the end. As new a councilman, Iʼll bring a fresh desire to work for the town and invigorate an agenda already in place. The open space planned for the new park is much needed considering our current COVID lifestyle and post pandemic life. The open space will afford our residents the opportunity to enjoy our town without being encumbered by pandemic constraints. COVID-19 has changed the way we view the world and its effects have not only affected us personally but also economically. As councilman, itʼll be my responsibility to identify the economic challenges our community faces and look for new and robust opportunities to mitigate those risks. I CAME TO the United States from the then European Communist country of Romania. I started a new life in the U.S. with just a suitROXANA case and no RITO (R) resources. Understanding the value of hard work, I became an entrepreneur and a small business owner opening a medical billing company as well as an ambulatory care facility composed of a neurosurgeon, two orthopedic surgeons, and a vascular surgeon. I am passionate about the wellbeing and health of our residents; I support our boroughʼs sports programs and will work to bring a wellness program to the community. I also believe that we

must also protect our open spaces and fight against overdevelopment. I am committed to preserving the nature and quality of our town. Iʼm a four-year resident in Woodcliff Lake, where I reside with my husband Nicolas Rito and our two children, Chilli and Preston, who both attend the townʼs schools. I received my associateʼs degree in criminal justice from Essex County College of New Jersey and continued my studies Rutgers University in Newark. While I am not aware of some of the intricacies related to the four year litigation leading to the Valley Chabad settlement, I understand that Valley Chabad has been our neighbor in Woodcliff Lake since 1998. Allegations of discrimination and harassment against our community are never beneficial for its residents so I am candidly pleased that Valley Chabad and Woodcliff Lake were able to enter into an amicable settlement. Even though a settlement has been entered into I believe there is still work to be done in our community and it must be done with full transparency. On the question of remediation work at Galaxy Gardens and the potential passive park planned there, as open space disappears in favor of development throughout the Pascack Valley it is so important to preserve our gardens, our farms and our parks while we are still able to do so. I am a mother of two children who embrace the outdoors and I am committed to ensuring these spaces exist for our residents. Over the past several years, Mayor Rendo has focused on preserving and enhancing our community outdoor areas. I am looking forward to working with him and the members of the council to create innovative programs at this and other community open space areas As leaders it is incumbent upon us to heal divisions and foster unity in our communities. I am committed to working for all of the residents of Woodcliff Lake, not merely those who mirror my

own political ideologies. We must start to listen to one another and strive to find commonality in solutions.

DIANNA CEREIJO HAS worked as an attorney in New Jersey representing clients on asset p r e s e r va t i o n , estate planning, and real estate contract negotiations. DIANNA DianCEREIJO (R) na is passionate about community service and has served as a court-appointed mediator, Board of Director for a 52unit co-op building, and a member of Woodcliff Lakeʼs zoning board and shade tree committee. Dianna believes in maintaining efficient fiscal policies and is eager to assist in stabilizing our taxes without sacrificing services. She will push the current efforts towards a fair share educational pay structure towards a “sendreceive” relationship with the regional school district. She believes implementing a commingling recycling program will provide ease to our residents. Dianna and her family are very happy to have established their roots in Woodcliff Lake. Dianna received her bachelor of science in criminal justice from Loyola University-Chicago and her Juris Doctorate from Pace University Law School. My view of the recent settlement with Valley Chabad: To make an informed decision I would need to know all the details surrounding the lawsuit. There were many closed sessions that I was not privy to and it would be prejudice and reckless of me to make a determination without having all the information about a matter. Yes, a settlement has been reached but there is still a lot of work to be done. Once I am elected to council, on any future matters I will have full access to all the information on future matters and I promise you that I will con-

sider all the members of our community and do what is best for Woodcliff Lake. Of remediation work at Galaxy Gardens and the passive park planned there, I am eager to have this project move forward. Last month, according to Daily Voice, Woodcliff Lake was named fifth in this state for its fitness lifestyle. I would like to make sure we continue to live up this expectation and use the Galaxy Gardens as a sanctuary oasis for our residents. I plan on bringing new initiatives such as yoga, and tai chi, and Shakespeare in the Park to this open space. Let us bring Galaxy Gardens to its full potential with joy and excitement for all of us. Other issues: The last comprehensive Master Plan was completed in 2002 and expired in 2012. On the other hand, the reexaminations of the Master Plan only helps us meet the minimum requirements imposed by the Municipal Land Use law. The need for the comprehensive Master Plan is to ensure the following: • Avoids overdevelopment. • Allows the community to have input and see how the town will develop over the next 10 years and ensure the entire town remains aesthetically pleasing to all. • Affords the borough the maximum level of legal protection from future lawsuits. • Avoids the influx of spot zone variances and preserves our townʼs existing residential character consisting of mostly singlefamily homes, and • Helps stabilize our taxes. Therefore, obtaining a comprehensive Master Plan is imperative for our town. It will provide us with visual, monetary, and community gain, making it a commonsense decision. For more profiles in races across the Pascack Valley, including the race for the Congressional 5th District, see our recent issues and visit thepressgroup.net.

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OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Election 2020: Woodcliff Lake Borough Council

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Letters:

She is the proud parent of one daughter (deceased) and two sons. The youngest is a 2013 graduate of Pascack Hills High School. Dolores has been endorsed by the NJ Communications Workers of America, AFL-CIO, and the Bergen County Central Trades and Labor Council. Robert Zitelli Montvale Editorʼs note: Lizette P. Parker (Aug. 31, 1971 – April 24, 2016) was mayor of Teaneck from 2014 until her death. Parker was the first Black woman to serve as mayor of any municipality in Bergen County.

FROM PAGE 21

Vote Dinallo, Browne for Emerson

To the editor: THIS LETTER IS in support of Pat Dinallo and Karen Browne for Emerson Council. Iʼve known Councilwoman Pat Dinallo for 30 years, during which she has been an active member of the community. Pat volunteered with the Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, rec program, and Project Graduation. She volunteered with pride and enthusiasm as she watched her kids blossom in the same wonderful town where she was raised. A retired educator who

worked in primary, secondary and special education, Pat spent her professional career using her smarts and exceptional people skills to resolve issues and seize opportunities for her students. I served on the Emerson Environmental Commission with Pat and personally witnessed the passion she has for maintaining a beautiful Emerson. She poured her heart and soul into creating the Community Garden that so many residents now use. Pat is committed to keeping Emerson beautiful, controlling taxes and quickly reigniting our stalemated downtown redevelopment project so it can flourish with new construction and an invigorated economic atmosphere for local businesses. Pat Dinallo loves Emerson and deserves your vote so she can continue to serve, and be a mature voice of reason, common sense and cooperation. Karen Browne has lived in Emerson for over 20 years and has volunteered numerous hours for the betterment and beautification of our Family Town. She was appointed to the Emerson Environmental Commission by both Democratic and Republican mayors and served for 10 years. When I served on the commission with Karen, I saw how she proactively participated in efforts to educate school children and residents about protecting the environment. She spearheaded townwide cleanups, and together with Pat Dinallo labored to make the Community Garden a reality. Karen has appeared before the Mayor and Council to support projects to improve Emerson, and raise “red flags” on issues that needed a counterbalancing point

of view. I have the ultimate respect for Karen, a high school science teacher with 18 years of experience, for stepping up to run for a council seat. Her vision is to revitalize the town to benefit all who live and work in it. Sheʼs troubled by the delays in the downtown redevelopment and the increase in taxes over the past two years, and is looking forward to playing an active role in addressing these issues head on to benefit the citizenry. Please vote Karen Browne for Emerson Council. Gary Schwinder Emerson

Don’t pass up Pontillo for WW BOE

To the editor: I AM WRITING to voice my support for Michael Pontillo, candidate for the Westwood seat on the WWRSD BOE. I know Mike and his family well. Together weʼve coached our daughters and have become friends over the last several years. Mike is a lifelong resident and a proud father of three fantastic children. He has proudly dedicated the past 20 years to serving our community in the Westwood Police Department. I know Mike cares deeply about the success of our wonderful town and our school district. His willingness to step up to further serve our community is something I am very excited about. The safety of my children is

BROOKSIDE BOUNCE

of paramount concern to me, and simply put, Mikeʼs abilities, training, insight, and work experience would be a tremendous asset that we, as a community, should embrace. We send our children off to school every day with the hope that they are safe in school. We place our trust in our schools and hope that everything has been done to ensure their safety. While I am pleased with the measures the district has taken in recent years to secure our schools I believe there is much more that can be done. Therefore when someone with Mikeʼs background in law enforcement steps forward to lend his time and expertise we should certainly not pass on that offer. In closing, I believe Mike is a fantastic well-rounded candidate who is ready to bring positive change to the board. Mike will bring a fresh perspective and new ideas into the BOE. He will advocate for what is right for our children and our community. I will proudly vote for him because I know Mike will elevate the Board of Education and the school district. Dan Severs Westwood

The time is now for Mike Pontillo

To the editor: IN 2019, we had the opportunity to make a change on the Westwood Board of Education. That opportunity was squandered for the year, but Michael Pontillo is running once again in 2020. Are we ready to have improved communication and enhanced transparency between the parents and the Board of Education? If your answer is yes, then I suggest you learn more about Michael Pontilloʼs promises. As a Westwood resident, a mother of children in the Westwood School District, and an avid follower of the Board of Education happenings, I can say without reserva-

tion that Michael Pontillo is the right person for the open position on the Board of Education. After watching his interview, my support has only grown. If you havenʼt done so yet, take a few minutes out of your busy life to watch this interview. He is professional, informed and knowledgeable regarding the ongoing issues facing our school district and came poised to answer questions on those issues. It was not only refreshing, but gave me hope for the possibilities within our school district. You may be saying to yourself, “Self, isnʼt there a conflict of interest for the chief of police to sit on the Board of Education?” No, no there is not. The position of police chief is an appointed position and therefore not acting as an elected representative of the community. The conflict simply does not exist. To boot, New Jersey has the precedent of a police chief presiding on the Board of Education without issue taken (see Township of Kearny). 2020 is the time for the change we need to see on the Board of Education. If you havenʼt yet done so, get your best ballot casting outfit on, your favorite ballot marking pen out, and get to the polls. We NEED Mike P on Westwoodʼs BOE! Joanne and Peter Ristevski Westwood Editorʼs note: In 2013, the state Commissioner of Education found of no conflict of interest in the deputy chief of the Kearny Police Department serving on the Township of Kearny school board. When Pontillo first ran for a Westwood Regional council seat, in 2019 district superintendent Ray Gonzalez told Pascack Press, “In my exploration of the topic there is nothing I found that would exclude anyone from the ballot who is currently running for a seat on the Board of Education.” For the record, we have not received any letters this cycle suggesting that the chief is ineligible to serve on the BOE.

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‘Secrets of the Bible’ course imparts mystical meanings, life lessons

Beginning Monday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m., Valley Chabad Academy of Jewish Studies offers a new six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI), “Secrets of the Bible: Iconic Stories, Mystical Meanings, and Their Lessons for Life.” According to Rabbi Drizin of Valley Chabad, “People tend to read biblical stories as they do primitive mythology. Our course invites participants to look deeper and discover the underlying

themes and relevant life lessons that these stories were designed to convey.” He said the course presents “a whole new way of reading the stories of Adam and Eve and the Tree of Knowledge, Noah and the great flood, the lifelong feud between Jacob and Esau, Josephʼs multicolored coat, the golden calf, and Korahʼs rebellion. “For each of these stories, it seeks to answer the questions: What is the deeper meaning

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The Montvale Police Department announces that on Jan. 1, 2021, officers will be deploying body worn cameras on all shifts, pursuant to the New Jersey Attorney Generalʼs Directive 2015-1 and the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office Directive 2017-8. Chief Joseph Sanfilippo told Pascack Press on Oct. 14, “The Montvale Police Department will deploy body worn cameras in accordance to these directives during criminal investigations, motor vehicle stops, witness interviews, searches, civil disorder, court security, use of force and constructive authority, transporting prisoners, making arrests, conducting protective searches for weapons, and calls for service.” Sanfilippo said his officers will

wear the cameras on the front of their bodies, on their outermost garment.

behind the story? How does it shape the Jewish worldview? And what wisdom does it hold for us today?” Drizin said. Throughout its six Zoom sessions, “Secrets of the Bible” explores major life themes, including human subjectivity and bias, the underpinnings of relationships, negotiating spiritual growth with practical impact, why inspiration is fleeting and how to make it last, understanding equality and privilege, and navigating parallel spiritual and material life paths. According to Dr. Erica Brown, director of the Mayberg Center for Jewish Education and Leadership at George Washington University, “Secrets of the Bible” presents “wonderful ancient biblical stories in fresh and modern ways that deal

with universal human dilemmas. The wisdom it shares should not remain a secret.” Dr. Joel Rosenberg, a professor of biblical literature at Tufts University, says “Secrets of the Bible brings to an intelligent lay readership texts so formative to so many cultures worldwide that they cannot be ignored even by cultures looking on from without.” He adds, “By embracing postbiblical Jewish tradition, the course recognizes an interpretative process that begins with the Bible itself (interpreting its own past) and goes on to awaken the interpretive impulse in later readers exploring the experience of their own era.” Like all JLI programs offered by Valley Chabad Academy of Jewish Studies, this course is designed to appeal to people at all

levels of knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular synagogue, temple, or other house of worship. This course will take place on Zoom. Upon registration, participants will receive information on how to log in. Aside from the first class taking place on Monday, Nov. 2, at 7:30 p.m. the five remaining classes will be held on Tuesdays. For registration and other course-related information, call (201) 476-0157 or visit valleychabad.org/JLI. JLI courses are presented in Woodcliff Lake by Valley Chabad Academy of Jewish Studies.

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BRUSH WITH GREATNESS: From left to right are Girl Scouts Cassie Espinoza, Phylicia Fodor, and Ava Fraser, of Westwood, here celebrating their completed mural project at Brookside Elementary School. Silver Award Project Manager in their mural project. Music can change the world. “She is an amazing person and Thatʼs the the message three West- Margie Druss Fodor told Pascack wood Girl Scouts want to give to Press on Oct. 19, “We hope this teacher. When I first approached all who pass their recently com- mural inspires people in the com- her about the mural project, I asked pleted mural painted at Brookside munity to appreciate music and her for artistic advice. She then visual arts. We also hope it inspires offered her wonderful donation and Elementary School. Westwood Regional High students to maybe play a musical we were so thankful,” Druss Fodor said. School 9th graders Cassie instrument or sing in the choir.” The scouts thank the followShe added, “Music gives you Espinoza, Phylicia Fodor, and Ava ing for their support of this project: Fraser, from Troop 5279 of West- a way to express yourself.” According to Druss Fodor, parents Margie Druss Fodor, Tara wood, worked for nearly a year creating and implementing their key aid came from Karen Bloch, Espinoza, and Lisa Fraser; Brookmural project as part of their Girl who retired from teaching last year side Principal Thomas Conroy; the at Westwood Regional Middle Westwood Fire Department; Karen Scout Silver Award. Block (Westwood art teacher from They researched inspirational School. Bloch donated more than 25 2002–2020); Marsala Hardware of quotes, sketched out their drawings, then brought their ideas to quarts of acrylic paint, dozens of Hillsdale; and Paint and Paper of life on the wall by the kindergarten foam trays and paint brushes, and Emerson. — John Snyder other supplies for the scouts to use wing at Brookside, 20 Lake Dr.

Betty June (Chapman) Hamilton, 94, of Danville, Pennsylvania, previously of Westwood, died peacefully in her sleep early on Sept. 30, 2020. Born Dec. 29, 1925 in Detroit, Michigan, she was the daughter of Eunice Estelle Hollingsworth Chapman and Herman Howard Chapman. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband Dan in 1986 and her dear sister Martha Mason in 2008. Betty moved to New Jersey at 10, where she, her parents, and sister lived in several towns before she graduated from Kearny High School in 1944. She went on to earn a bachelor of science in biology from Upsala College in East Orange in 1950. Betty remained in her beloved New Jersey until age 89, when her health caused her to relocate to a nursing home near her daughter Sue in Pennsylvania. Betty held various jobs throughout her life, her favorite of which was a naturalist at the Wyckoff Wildlife Center and Campgaw Mountain reservation in New Jersey. She loved all things nature

and truly enjoyed teaching people about plants, animals, and earth science. Even this job, however, paled in comparison to her most important role: that of wife, homemaker, and wonderful mother to her three children. Betty also volunteered in numerous capacities. She was always actively involved in serving others and brightening anybodyʼs day that she could. She loved the beach, any kind of flowers, sitting in the sun and spending time out on her beloved deck. She also had quite a sweet tooth! Above all else, her greatest pride and joy came from spending time with her family. Her children and grandchildren brought her such happiness as she kept involved with and shared in each of their lives, activities, and accomplishments. She is survived by her three children, James R. Hamilton and wife Judith of Vernon, Susan B. Abbate and husband Matt of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, and Amy J. Lewis and husband Mike of Westwood. She is also survived by seven grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren, all of whom she adored. She also leaves behind her wonderful niece and nephew, Laurie and Steven Wheatley, whom she held very dear. A celebration of her amazing life will take place at a future date. Anyone wishing to donate in her honor could appropriately do so to

any humanitarian organization, as Aiden, storyteller to Jaxson, and the she endorsed any cause to improve primary subject of Noraʼs mostthe human condition and our planet. admired artwork. He will be missed by many, and remembered fondly by many, many more. Paul S. A memorial service was held at NEILL St. Gabrielʼs Church in Saddle Paul S. Neill, 79, a resident of River. Memorial donations can be Montvale, passed away on Sept. 7, made to Memorial Sloan Kettering 2020. Cancer Center (www.mskcc.org). Paul was born in East Orange in Richard M. 1941 and raised by BAVIELLO Marjorie (Stauffer) Richard M. Baviello, 85, of and Everett in Short Hills. Following his Hillsdale, passed away peacefully graduation from on Friday, October 16, 2020. Beloved husYale University, band of Nancy (nee Paul proudly served Calderone). Devotin the U.S. Marine Corps during the ed father of Nancy years preceding and including the Baviello-Doyle and Vietnam War. He earned his MBA her husband John, from NYU and Rutgers University, Richard Baviello and had a lengthy career in corpoand his wife Diane rate management before running his and Carol Baviello. own consulting firm until his retireLoving grandfather of Ashley Czament. Beyond his degrees, his service sak, Nicole Anzalone Sloat, Cortand his professional accomplish- ney, Kristi and Brett Baviello; ments, Paulʼs crowning achieve- great-grandfather of Hudson and ment is his half-century marriage to Blake Czasak. Born in the Bronx, New York, his soulmate, Lillian, who survives him. Their love and devotion serves Richard had lived in Hillsdale for as both foundation and model to his more than 54 years. He was an beloved children Kimberly (and accountant with Polychrome Corp., Clark. He served in the U.S. Michael) and Brian (and Monika). It was in his retirement that Army and was a parishioner of St. Paulʼs varied talents and interests John the Baptist Church, Hillsdale. A funeral mass was held at St. flourished—as historian to Christopher, jokester to Sean, shark hunter John the Baptist R.C. Church, to William, homework helper to Hillsdale, with entombment fol-

lowing at Garden of Memories, Township of Washington. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Judeʼs Childrenʼs Hospital, www.stjude.org, or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, www.lls.org.

Matthew STRIEBEL

Matthew Striebel, affectionately called “Matty Moose” by his family, passed away at 40. Born on Nov. 23, 1969 to Tessie and Hank Striebel, he was a lifelong resident of Park Ridge and graduated from Park Ridge High School in 1988. He went on to work for Vista Electrical, and later worked with his family at Seafood Gourmet. He is predeceased by his mother, father, and his brother David. He is survived by his sister Karen Ciravolo and her husband Louis, and his sister Diane Ciravolo and her husband John. He leaves behind his nephew Anthony Ciravolo, and wife Skye, and their daughter Willow, as well as his nieces Maria and Julia Ciravolo. With not a bad bone in this body, he was and will always be loved by his family, friends, and co-workers. He will be sorely missed by us all, and will live on in our hearts and minds forever. A memorial service will be held in his honor at a later date.

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OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Betty J. HAMILTON

OBITUARIES

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Prime: Eatery/butcher shop combo is hot stuff which Petruso said was a big hit with customers.

FROM PAGE 17

“What's unique about Westwood Prime Eats is we let you choose your blend of beef for your burger. No other place gives you

that option. And we grind all of the meat we use on premises (at Westwood Prime Meats) so we know what's going into the burg-

volume, and density “bonuses” to permit up to five-story building heights and 299 units, and possibly more, of high-density multifamily housing. Other concerns included the redevelopment zoneʼs impacts on downtown businesses, parking, and density. A few board members noted that density bonuses might lead up to 60 feet height for a five-story multifamily complex , a scenario that appears increasingly unlikely given concerns about granting any

such density bonuses by Planning Board members. The borough is under a midFebruary 2021 deadline agreed to in its 2018 affordable housing settlement to either rezone or adopt a redevelopment plan for the 14acre industrial zone that provides 24 affordable units at a density of 28 dwelling units per acre. A virtual town hall for residents to question professionals on the plan meets Thursday, Oct. 29, at 6:30 p.m. Check the borough Community Calendar for details.

‘Town hall’ on redevelopment plan Oct. 29

HILLSDALE

Most Planning Board members gave the boroughʼs newly proposed Patterson Street Redevelopment Plan mixed reviews Oct. 20, and the mayor graded the new proposal “incomplete” for what he said was its failure to analyze potential impacts. While most Planning Board members said they found the plan consistent with the town Master Plan, two of nine members— including Mayor John Ruocco— questioned the plan's potential impacts on local finances, traffic

Enchanted Forest

Confection Expression. Organizers told Pascack Press, “We thank Superintendent of Schools Brian P. Gatens, the Emerson Board of Education, and the community for being so supportive of this creation.” Pascack Press salutes this effort and welcomes readers to share their own stories of finding—or creating—spaces of healing and celebration in the Pascack Valley. Write pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net.

FROM PAGE 1

er,” assured Petruso. He said the eatery features weekly specials and also offers a selection of homemade hot soups, a tradition started in 1986 when his dad started Westwood Prime Meats. Petruso said no additives or preservatives are used in soups or meats. He said “Taste the Difference” has always been the local shopʼs motto and includes Westwood Prime Eats too. Petruso said the popular downtown dining spot hopes to soon start a more elaborate dinner menu featuring a selection of prime steaks, seafood, and pasta. He said the support of customers who bought takeout and patronized the butcher shop during the coronavirus pandemic helped Westwood Prime Meats survive while the eatery remained closed.

“We thank the community for supporting us during the covid crisis,” he said. Petruso said a new awning was installed along the Fairview Avenue side of the eatery, where outdoor dining occupancy is about 20 customers. Petruso noted the eatery and butcher shop staff take extra precautions in sanitizing, follow social distancing and wear face coverings to keep customers safe. “Our regulars stuck with us and we thank them for supporting us. Weʼre all about the community. We just want everybody to be comfortable, safe, and be able to eat great food,” he said. Westwood Prime Eats is at 198 Westwood Ave., Westwood. Westwood Prime Meats is at 190 Westwood Ave. For takeout orders or more information, call (201) 664-0069.

Commerce and Mayorʼs Economic Recovery team to help local businesses through the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Worked with the mayor and Westwood Police Department to secure over $1.2 million of necessary equipment from the federal governmentʼs 1033 Program, saving valuable tax dollars. If given the opportunity to serve another term, I plan to work with our engineer and governing body to expand our road resurfacing program without increasing our current budget. I will work on an economical path to introduce solar energy in borough-owned buildings to reduce energy costs and improve our environment. I will work with our recreation department to increase adult recreation programming, improve recreation infrastructure for residents of all ages and abilities and a safe expansion of the boroughʼs Senior Transportation Program. Lastly, I will work with the mayor and governing body to offset the financial challenges to our community as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and work with our Chamber of Commerce and local business to help in these challenging times.

FROM PAGE 6

I AM A single mother of three children who have called Westwood home for the last 15 years. I have been a public servant for most of my BERMARI career. I have ROIG (D) worked in federal, state and currently, county government, helping families navigate through the difficulties they are experiencing. I have carried that sense of service to my community: I am a current member of the Westwood Recreation Board, former secretary

for the Westwood Football Association, and former coach for both girls and boys recreation sports. 2020 has brought with it many challenges to all of us, individually and as a community. The stress placed on our downtown and our municipal budget, will have long lasting effect for the next few years. Keeping our downtown thriving is crucial to the financial stability of our community. Welcoming new businesses, that will attract consumers to Westwood will, in turn, benefit our existing businesses that have been struggling during this unprecedented year. I believe that my 12-year experience as a New Jersey State Assembly staffer, has given me the ability, knowledge and strong work ethic to achieve consensus and compromise for the benefit of Westwood. If you have seen me coach, representing the recreation board at movie/concert nights or as a bigger than life character for our Halloween parades, you have seen my dedication to this community and this is the dedication I will bring to the governing body the move Westwood forward.

I AM A 39-year resident of Westwood. My husband Jaymee and I have five children and 13 grandchildren. I have worked in the medical field for 30 years and CHERYL L. manage a large HODGES (R) oncology practice. I am an active member of Zion Lutheran Church and a member of the Westwood Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. We are a proud Gold Star Family since 2010, when our youngest son, Chris, gave his life in Afghanistan while serving in the Marine Corps. Through a foundation set up for our son, we host several events including the Westwood Dads Dash. This popular event allows us to provide scholarships

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and funding for local students and organizations. In doing so, we bring our community together to honor and remember Chris and all those who have sacrificed for our great country. I serve as liaison to the Recreation and Health departments as well as the Parking Authority. I also serve as the deputy liaison to DPW and Senior Advisory. Joining the Borough Council in a year that has been anything but usual has been challenging but rewarding. In my first year I have worked closely with our health

department to stay abreast of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was able to help implement a parking plan that facilitated five minute parking for our food establishments and worked with our Parking Authority to recently launch a touchless option for parking with the ParkMobile App. Volunteering with our seniors and homebound has been a wonderful experience. Working with a team of volunteers I was able to coordinate twice weekly trips to the grocery store to assist those that were unable or needed rides.

In 2021 I look forward to serving the residents of Westwood and promise to work with our mayor and council to preserve the charm and character of what I consider to be the best place to live and raise a family. I am motivated by our current council members and share their commitment to keeping our town safe and affordable. For more profiles, including on candidates for Westwood Regional school board, see our recent issues or visit thepressgroup.net.

OCTOBER 26, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Election 2020: Westwood Council

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