Pascack Press 10.4.21 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

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

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

VOLUME 25 ISSUE 29

MONTVALE

THE ASK FOR K-8

$29.4M referendum would cost homeowners some $325 annually

SCHOOLS

OCTOBER 4, 2021

HONORING A SELFLESS MAN

The late Johnny Cuffe, 53, organ donor

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

An average Montvale taxpayer will have to pay about $325 more per year for “likely” 25 years under a $29.4 million school bond referendum that aims to add classrooms and upgrade facilities at the boroughʼs elementary and middle school. Thatʼs according to district officials at the Sept. 27 board meeting, in which a unanimous school board approved a $29.4 million bond issue referendum for Dec. 14. That said, the state Commissioner of Education lowered the amount eligible for state debt service aid to 40% of that amount — or approximately $21 million of the proposed referendum. That means, according to school officials, state aid will contribute about 24% to reduce the local share of bonding costs. “The plan for our schools is well-thought out, takes into consideration the future needs of the district and weʼre trying to be as responsible as we can with this,” Board President Ernie DiFiore told Pascack Press at the Sept. 27 school board meeting. He said the proposed referendum renovation and building plans “only really adding square footage to one building and [are] repurposing a lot of square footage in this building… the reason why thatʼs important is because we get more money back from the state on renovations versus new construction,” DiFiore added. When residents visit the districtʼs referendum website, “Montvale Cares About Its Future,” they will find the what, why, when and how much on the referendum, plus a brief look at the proposed projects for Memorial Elementary School

See ASK on page 224

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

EMERGENCY SERVICES BUILDING EARLY JANUARY

Town to consider review on its projects Oct. 4

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Family and friends of River Vale’s late John “Johnny” Fitzgerald Cuffe, 53, gathered as Team Johnny (above) to honor his memory and show their support for NJ Sharing Network’s life-saving mission.

walkers, runners and volunteers participated in NJ Sharing Networkʼs 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATFcertified race at the organizationʼs headquarters in New Providence on Sept. 12. The event, presented by Hackensack Meridian Health and Pfizer and supported by dozens of other generous sponsors, honored those who gave the gift of organ and tissue, paid tribute to those who have received a transplant, offered hope to those currently waiting for a transplant, and remembered the lives lost while waiting for the HOUSANDS OF

TOP PHOTO VIA TEAM JOHNNY; JANET SOBKOWICZ AT TOWN DAY 2017/FILE

gift of life. Family and friends of River Valeʼs late John “Johnny” Fitzgerald Cuffe, 53, gathered as Team Johnny to honor his memory and show their support for NJ Sharing Networkʼs life-saving mission. Johnny, who passed away in 2017, was an organ and tissue donor who saved and enhanced the lives of others. His wife, Donna Marie Cuffe, offered the following message during the 5K Celebration of Life:

Continued on page 21

The new year likely will be a happy one for local volunteer firefighters, ambulance crews, and residents alike, according to the townʼs Emergency Services Building architect, who predicts personnel and equipment will be able to move into their new HQ near the start of the new year. Architect Robbie Conley told Pascack Press last week, “We are looking at the first or second week of January” for moving in and RELATED that general • Township contractor Tekcon will be mayor, council focusing on candidates set debate completing all — Page 14 outside work, including • WTVAC s p r e a d i n g looks to double asphalt, in the riders with HQ coming weeks. upgrade Conley — Page 26 said asphalt plants often close in late November to early December due to the colder weather. He said once the new building is functional, the old firehouse, next door at 656 Washington Ave. — erected in 1951 and

See EMERGENCY on page 284

MAYOR PASSES

B ck in time...

Former Township of Washington Mayor Janet Sobkowicz, who broke a gender barrier in valley governance, died on Sept. 29. SEE PAGE 5

‘Here we have the amazing Park Ridge Owls as they looked in autumn 1921 ... with their biggest fan.’ Kristin Beuscher has the story!

SEE PAGE 4

OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR F

To the editor: ROM DECEMBER 2016 till May of 2021 I was a member of the Emerson Recreation Commission, serving as presiding officer in my last year. I enjoyed serving the children

Keeping members ‘in check’

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and all the residents of the town with other long-serving volunteers. Sadly, the atmosphere in town became toxic once Danielle DiPaola became mayor in 2019. She undermined and disrespected board members at every turn. Many of us, myself included, chose to resign rather than continue to feel abused and undermined. Others were overlooked at reappointment time in favor of the mayorʼs political allies. The borough administrator who was hired by the current mayor and council took his lead from the administration disrespecting myself and other members on the commission who was not appointed by the current mayor and council. At a Recreation Commission meeting on Dec. 2, 2020 a mem-

ber of the commission who was appointed by the current mayor and council stated that he was put on the commission to keep me in check. This is the way current administration is, if you are not agreeing completely with the mayor she will appoint someone to keep you “in check.” This is no way to run a town, and thanks to that terrible leadership, we are in a much worse position than ever with volunteers. People arenʼt going to willingly give their time to a town that treats them like garbage. Emerson cannot continue electing leaders who only care about the mayorʼs agenda, enough is enough. This is not a Republican or a Democrat issue, itʼs not federal politics or even state politics, itʼs about our town and all our residents!

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.

The administration needs to know that. This is the Family Town, letʼs start acting like it. Remember that when you vote this year. Paul Coombes Emerson

Editorʼs note: We were curious about this, so we looked up the Emerson Recreation Committee minutes for Dec. 2, 2020. Under Sports Updates and Reviews – Recreation Commission Liaison, Wrestling, there is an exchange between Paul Coombes and member (now presiding officer) Steve Paino. The minutes read: “There is no season planned. At a recent league meeting no one was moving forward. The wrestling board is at 80% capacity, with three of CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Following a unanimous Planning Board approval of the 66-unit Viviano American Dream Estates single-family and townhome development, the board must vote on a resolution of approval. Officials will then formulate a developerʼs agreement on a construction timeline. Meanwhile, residents are still questioning the value of a 10-yearold county traffic study on the project, and what impact, if any, the development might have on the school system. The next regular meeting of the Township Council is Oct. 4. The next regular meeting of the Planning Board is Oct. 6. The 5-0 Planning Board decision on Sept. 22 came after nearly two decades of wrangling over affordable housing and the projectʼs density, and disputes with neighbors and other residents over stormwater, traffic, sewage pump lines, and privacy concerns. The approved amended project encompasses a 66-unit development on 14 acres at 463 Van Emburgh Ave., including 42 single-family lots, 24 fee-simple townhouse lots, one private common open space lot to serve the townhouses detention basin and sewage pump station, and one boulevard/median lot to be located in a public right-of-way on Genevieve Drive. The project site lies near Immaculate Heart Academy, and between Van Emburgh Avenue and the Garden State Parkway.

The applicant sought approval on an amended preliminary major site plan approval and an amended preliminary major subdivision approval. (See “American Dream Estates wins planning approval,” Pascack Press, Sept. 27, 2021.) Planning Board attorney Louis Lamatina laid out a series of stipulations, including engineering and technical approvals, that needed to be spelled out in a resolution of approval, likely to be voted on at the boardʼs Oct. 6 or Nov. 3 meeting. It was not clear by press time when the resolution would be officially approved. Lamatina told Pascack Press that the resolution would not be publicly available before the meeting. However, the Sept. 22 meeting provided a clue to the resolutionʼs likely contents. Lamatina noted conditions included an agreed tree replacement plan, including a $61,250 contribution to the townshipʼs notyet established tree trust; a net decrease in stormwater flows offsite meeting applicable state regulations; copy of a letter from the state Turnpike Authority agreeing with the applicantʼs stormwater management plan; confirmation from town engineer Paul Azzolina that the stormwater plan is in compliance with DEP regulations; confirmation that the soil removal/replacement numbers are valid; and a Planning Board/attorney review of the homeowners association agreement. Shimanowitz said he agreed to all the conditions listed by Lamatina. Lamatina said because the affordable housing agreement

approved for the Viviano American Dream property predated Calamari as mayor, he did not see a need for the mayor to recuse himself from voting on the application. The agreement was approved in 2001. Calamari has a personal connection to the application in that his father, August, was chairman of the Planning Board in 2004, when Viviano won preliminary approval for the project. That didnʼt come up at the Sept. 22 meeting and no one objected to the mayorʼs vote on the application. Before voting to approve, Mayor Peter Calamari said “a large part of my vote and decision” was based on the agreement worked out between the applicant and neighbors. “I appreciate both sidesʼ hard work and the fact that we did not get a lot of input from the neighbors tonight; I hope that means theyʼre as happy as they can be with whatʼs going on.” (For background, see “Township fears lawsuit in Viviano application challenges,” Pascack Press, Sept. 3, 2019.) Murphy thanked attorneys Shimanowitz and John J. Lamb — the latter representing Concerned

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Citizens of Washington Township — for “working everything out, to work out the issues that the residents of the area had with this project, and that everybody is as happy as they can be with this project at this point in time. Thank you for all your work on that,” he added. Lamb said he wanted to make sure that the proposed development creates no impacts due to stormwater runoff on his clientsʼ

nearby properties on Katharina Place. The settlement agreement with Viviano includes landscape buffers, reduced number of lots adjoining Katharina Place residences, and a provision holding the developer responsible for any future stormwater impacts. Shimanowitz said the developmentʼs homeowners associaCONTINUED ON PAGE 33

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OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Museum chronicles local history

Pascack Historical Society invites you and your family to stop by its museum any Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free. The Societyʼs John C. Storms Museum is in an 1873 former chapel at 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge. While the museum is located in Park Ridge, it tells the story of all eight Pascack Valley towns: Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Park Ridge, River Vale, Township of Washington, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake. The museum is home to thousands of objects that chronicle life as it was in past centuries. Visitors will discover a special section devoted to colonial artifacts, they will learn about why shell beads called wampum were so important in the Pascack Valley, and they will see rooms recreated to illustrate early19th century and Victorian life. The museum also has a collection of Lenape stone tools, which predate European settlement. Adults are encouraged to bring their children for a unique learning experience. For more information, visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org and follow the museum on Facebook.

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inside LIBRARY CALENDAR

DINING GUIDE

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HEALTH & WELLNESS 24 OBITUARIES

HOME IMPROVEMENT 31 REAL ESTATE

SERVICES

B ck in time...

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

The 1921 Park Ridge Owls football team with coach Mr. North (middle row, second from left) and their biggest fan, Principal Louis J. Schmerber (middle row, second from right). The uniforms are typical of the era: limited padding and plain shirts with no numbers. The boys would have worn leather helmets, if they wore them at all. Even in professional football, helmets were optional then.

PARK RIDGE’S SPIRITED OWLS OF A CENTURY AGO

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF PASCACK PRESS

the amazing Park Ridge Owls as they looked in autumn 1921. This photo predates the Pascack Valley regional high schools by more than 30 years, so these boys would have come from all over the area — Hillsdale, Montvale, Woodcliff Lake, Park Ridge, and beyond. In fact, there were only two local high schools in the 1920s: Park Ridge and Westwood. As the 1922 “Hoot” yearbook tells us, the 1921 football season began on shaky ground. Almost the entire backfield and line had graduated that past June, so when the team started out in September, many of the players were new. They also lacked a coach; more experienced players were instructing the younger ones. The team played its first two games of the season against Nyack and was roundly defeated, first by 19–7 and then 12–0. The team regrouped; they even found an adult willing to volunteer as a coach! “Soon many trick plays and ERE WE HAVE

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

backfield formations were developed. One bleak Saturday in November we played Clifton,” the yearbook reads. “If ever a real game of football was played, this was it. Outweighed over 20 pounds a man and playing a team that was used to winning from good heavy teams, the outlook was dark. Clifton expected to win an easy game. They had run up scores on other schools that looked like census records. “On the other hand, Park Ridge was determined to win, or give them the hardest fight they ever had. Mr. Schmerber (the school principal) gave the boys a talk before the game and got them into a fighting mood. During the game he made more noise than anybody on the field. That was a game.” At one point Park Ridge was actually beating Clifton, but the opponent turned it around in the final quarter, scoring several touchdowns and winning 27–19. Still, giving Clifton a run for their money was a big morale boost for the Owls. The remainder of the season was a mix of wins and losses; they defeated Ramsey,

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

27–3, only to fall to the Newman School (a private Catholic school for boys in Lakewood, no longer existing) by a score of 7–0. “In reviewing the season, it must be said that the team made a remarkable showing,” the yearbooks concludes. “Great odds had been overcome.” This team existed at a unique time in Park Ridge history. The high school burned down in 1920, was rebuilt the following year, and the new school opened in Septem-

ber 1922. The building behind these boys is not a school, but a private residence. After the fire, Mrs. Emily Leach, widow of former Park Ridge mayor and school board trustee James Leach, offered her spacious Fremont Avenue mansion as a temporary school for the 1921–1922 year. Decades later the old mansion became a nursing home. It was damaged in a fire in the 1970s and subsequently torn down.

Leach Manor was a temporary high school 1921–1922.

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.

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TRAILBLAZING MAYOR JANET SOBKOWICZ

MMEDIATE PAST MAYOR Janet Sobkowicz, a political historymaker and ardent fan of all things Washington Township, died on Wednesday, Sept. 29. She was 74. Her successor and fellow Republican, Peter Calamari, posted that evening, “Janet had the distinction of being the first woman on the Township Council as well as our first female mayor. Janet loved this town and the people in it. Even after she left public office, she could be counted on to attend and participate in many of the townʼs functions and events. She and her presence will be missed by many. May she rest in eternal peace.” A cause of death was not reported by press time. News of her passing drew surprise, sadness, and colorful anecdotes on local social media. Councilman and Planning Board member Thomas Sears posted Sept. 30, “When I was placed on the Planning Board Janet was a mentor to me. She was one of the most knowledgeable people on the Planning Board. She always protected the town and always knew what was in the codebook. She advised me to research everything that came before the board. May she rest in peace.” A councilwoman for 28 years before being elected mayor in 2009, Sobkowicz was re-elected in 2013. Sheʼd served as council liaison to the Planning Board for 20 years and

served on the Bergen County Planning Board for another six. A self-described fiscal conservative, and a township resident of nearly 50 years, she said she was pleased to bring forward her experience in budgeting, municipal finance, planning and zoning, and municipal services to face new and difficult challenges. In election materials and in interviews, she said she worked hard to maintain the townʼs residential character, advocated a municipal tax rate among the lowest in the Pascack Valley, supported recreation programs, and led in the building of a new municipal complex and senior center financed principally by grants. She cited as points of pride planMayor Janet Sobkowicz in 2017/file

CATERING FOR ALL OCCASIONS

ning a new fieldhouse at Clark Field with volunteer efforts, supporting emergency service groups, supporting clubs, organizations, and citizens in worthwhile endeavors, presiding over the success of the Fall Festival, and sounding out as a strong independent voice on the council. She supported the reopening of Pascack Valley Hospital, resolving the cell tower issue leading to improved phone service as a profitable revenue source, and upgrading fields and parks through grant money. Memorial Field work an ongoing challenge. Sobkowicz empaneled a citizens committee to report back with proposals to rehabilitate Memorial Field in the wake of the defeat of a 2016 ballot measure that would have borrowed $2.45 million to install lighting and artificial turf there. She told Pascack Press in an interview in 2017, when she retired from elected office, that she felt she would have enjoyed another run but felt party support had turned against her. She said any woman who runs for council or mayor here would face a sharply uphill battle, and that this sense stayed with her as she worked to lead the town. Though she left the mayorship to Calamari, Sobkowicz continued with her work as a K-12 supervisor in the Waldwick School District. And CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

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TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

District backs state in policy requiring vax for employees

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WESTWOOD REGIONAL DISTRICT

The district board of trustees on Sept. 23 approved a wide-ranging Covid-19 vaccination policy affecting teachers, administrators,

and all full- and part-time covered workers. No one spoke up to champion the policy, which follows from Democratic Gov. Phil Murphyʼs Executive Order 253, signed Aug. 23, requiring all covered workers to either provide adequate proof that they have been fully vaccinated or

submit to Covid-19 testing one to two times each week. The vote was 5–2, with one abstention. Opposing were trustees Michael Pontillo and Michelle Sembler of Westwood. (Pontillo also is Westwoodʼs police chief.) New trustee Thomas Snee of

Columbus Day

the Township of Washington abstained. Vice President Joseph Abou-Daoud of Westwood was absent. Voting for were Maureen Colombo and Stacey Price of Township of Washington, and Andrew Gerstmayr and Roberta Hanlon of Westwood. (Related: “Maureen Colombo is countyʼs top school counselor for ʼ21,” Pascack Press, April 17, 2021.) The requirement takes effect on Oct. 18. In order to have the policy in effect for this school year, the board suspended its rule that generally requires two readings and discussions of a policy for adoption. By way of background, Murphyʼs executive order 253 — on

vaccination management, Covid19 testing, data collection, and the implementation of CDC recommendations — notes the existence of a public health emergency and a state of emergency, pursuant to the New Jersey Civilian Defense and Disaster Control Act, regarding coronavirus. Murphy says he reserves the right “to utilize and employ all available resources of state government to protect against the emergency.” Further, he says “preventing transmission of Covid-19 is critical to keeping schools open for inperson instruction.” Murphy expresses concern for those too young to receive the CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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Montvale capital projects, planning updates MONTVALE

Mayor Michael Ghassali reported the following updates on Sept. 25…

Projects update Borough/capital projects • Montvale 2021 Road Program: PSEG completed the first phase of paving in August, with the following roads scheduled for October: Azalea, Cardinal, Crest, Fairview, Hemlock, Hillcrest, Hunting Ridge, Jefferson, Meadow, Montvale (east), Myrtle, Norgate, Nottingham, Oak, Phyllis, Raven, Rutherford, Shadow, Smyrychynski, Spruce, Sunnyside and Williams. Additional roads may also be included by PSEG. The borough also finalized a list of roads proposed to be milled and paved under the program: Arthur, Bryan, Camron, Echo Hill, Ellsworth, Erie, Hickory Hill, Main, Maureen, McGuire, Partridge Run, Phyllis and Wildwood. (All weather permitting.) • Bergen County/Magnolia Avenue Bridge replacement: Final easements prepared by the county were recently forwarded to the homeowners and are awaiting their signatures. The contract for the bridge reconstruction work was awarded to Sanzari Construction. Note that, as part of the required detours, the

installation of a temporary traffic light at Grand and Woodland will be part of this construction project. The county has not set the start date. • PSE&G gas main replacement: “PSE&G has completed the majority of their replacements, with several lateral connections still required.” • Bergen County 2018/2019 Road Program (Kinderkamack Road): CED is working with the county to finalize the improvements to the ADA ramps along the length of Kinderkamack Road, prior to milling and paving. The schedule for the start and duration of this work is still not finalized. • NJDEP 2020 Tier ʻAʼ Stormwater Reporting. Ghassali said the borough submitted a response to Bergen County regarding their comments to local revisions of the boroughʼs Stormwater Management Plan. • Montvale FY2022 NJDOT Road Program: This program proposes milling and paving of Summit Avenue from Spring Valley Road east to the New York State border. • Montvale FY2021 NJDOT Road Program: NJDOT notified the Borough on Nov. 16, 2020 that itʼs been awarded $210,000 for road improvements to Craig Road. • La Trenta Field Synthetic Turf: The project is complete. Paperwork has been finalized and submitted to the county for reimbursement. The borough was awarded $113,538 in 2017 and

$65,000 in 2018 for the synthetic turf installation. • Montvale 2020 Bergen County Open Space Grant- La Trenta Parking Lot & ADA Improvement Project: This Feb. 16, the county awarded the bor-

ough $96,309 for proposed improvements to include milling and paving the parking lots and driveway, new curbing and adding ADA parking and viewing areas at the tennis court and fields. • Montvale 2019 Bergen

County Open Space Grant – Memorial Drive Bocce Ball Courts: The contractor has completed the majority of the work on the new courts, but due to materiCONTINUED ON PAGE 28

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LIBRARY CALENDAR: VIRTUAL PROGRAMS THIS WEEK

Note: Events are in person at 2–5. Weather permitting. Registratheir hosting libraries unless other- tion is recommended, but drop-in wise noted. welcome. Blankets for spacing and ground protection strongly encourEMERSON aged. 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org HILLSDALE • Baby & Me, for age 2 and 509 Hillsdale Ave. under, meets on the libraryʼs front (201) 358-5072 lawn Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 11 a.m. An hfpl.org introduction to songs, dance and fin• Join local horticulturist Tracy gerplays with stuffed animals and Hanson on Monday, Oct. 4 from rhymes. Register online for each 5:30–6:30 p.m. for tips on plant date you plan to attend. selection for your next home gar• Join Miss Victoria on the front den project. From hesitant firstlawn for Afternoon Storytime time to experienced gardeners, Thursday, Oct. 7 at 3:30 p.m. Ages “Small Garden Tasks for Big

Impact: Talk and Walk with Tracy Hanson” will inform and give confidence in enhancing the performance and beauty of your landscape. Program is outdoors on the library patio. Pre-register. • The silver Airstreams and neon signs of the classic American diner brighten New Jerseyʼs highways and Main Streets, but the intrinsic role they have played in the stateʼs culture and industry for more than 100 years is much more than eggs-over-easy and coffee. At “History of Diners in New Jersey,” Monday, Oct. 4 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., author Michael C. Gabriele

will dish the story and evoke fond memories of classic New Jersey eateries. Registration required. • Join Maria on the library patio and start the day with a Chair Yoga class. Chair Yoga brings the floor to you and is a gentle but satisfying workout ideal for seniors or those who find regular yoga too aggressive. Class is Thursday, Oct. 7, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Weather permitting. Registration required. • Zumba via Zoom is Thursday, Oct. 7 at 4:30 p.m. Join Janet Weller, a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, as she leads a dance-based workout. Register for Zoom link. • Ever wondered about Tai Chi—the martial art consisting of slow, controlled movements with many health benefits? Try a free sample class at the Hillsdale Library. Tai Chi with Master Randy is offered on Friday, Oct. 8 at 10:30 a.m., outdoors on the patio. Registration required.

• Fall Art with Deidre, a four-week art program, will focus on drawing subjects such as still life, landscapes and portraits. The program meets Saturdays in October (9, 16, 23, and 30) at 10:30 a.m. and is suitable for age 10 and up. There is no fee and materials are provided, but registration is a must. Register for each session separately. • Author and musician Kevin Woyce traces the strange history of Halloweʼen from Old World harvest festivals to our modern family holiday when he brings “Halloweʼen—A Haunted History” to the library Saturday, Oct. 9 at 3 p.m. Heʼll discuss the origins of the Jack-oʼlantern, Orson Wellesʼ 1938 “War of The Worlds” radio broadcast, the first monster movies, famous costume makers, and more. Free; registration required. CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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44-unit inclusionary complex gets Oct. 6 hearing BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

A second public hearing on Franklin Court Management LLCʼs 44-unit inclusionary rental development on Van Emburgh Avenue, which includes two market-rate single-family homes, is set for the Planning Board on Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. The hearing will be held on Zoom only, states the applicantʼs public notice, published Sept. 23. Information about the Zoom link can be found on the Planning Board website. Public notices can be found at njpublicnotices.com.

The hearing was moved from Aug. 18, itself a followup to a first hearing Aug. 4. We reached out to Donna Jennings, of Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, to find out why there was a delay and who would testify Oct. 6. We did not hear back by press time. According to the public notice, the applicant requests: • Preliminary and final major subdivision approval to merge and subdivide the four existing lots to create three new lots as follows: Proposed Lot 1.04 to contain the proposed multifamily residential inclusionary building and proposed lots 1.05 and 1.06 which will each contain a single-family home;

• Preliminary and final major site plan approval to construct a 44unit multifamily residential inclusionary building with associated parking,landscaping, lighting, stormwater management improvements and related site infrastructure; • Variance relief from Ordinance sections 580–33 with regard to the minimum street frontage for proposed lots 1.05 and 1.06, which will each contain a single-family home; and • Other relief as determined necessary by the Planning Board. The proposed development includes seven on-site affordable units as part of the townshipʼs affordable housing agreement. In

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addition, the developer has agreed to contribute $250,000 as a payment in lieu of affordable unit construction to the local Affordable Housing Trust Fund. At its last hearing Aug. 4, Mayor Peter Calamari, also a Planning Board member, was told by board attorney Lou Lamatina that he should recuse himself from voting on the application to avoid an appearance of conflict of interest due to Calamariʼs 2015 vote in favor of the townshipʼs affordable housing settlement. Though it was not clear why the Aug. 18 session was cancelled, the nearly three-hour first hearing on Aug. 4 raised a number of questions regarding tree replacements required under the townshipʼs 2:1 replacement ordinance, traffic concerns, fire vehiclesʼ emergency access to the site, privacy concerns of nearby homeowners and safety concerns regarding traffic and pedestrian mobility. Previously, the applicantʼs attorney said that architect Rob Larsen and traffic engineer Betsy Dolan would appear Aug. 18 to offer testimony. At the first hearing Aug. 4, applicant engineer Michael Pucci, of CPL Partnership, Matawan, went through multiple questions raised by Planning Board engineer Paul Azzolina (available online under PB Documents) about the number of trees requiring replacement for both complex driveway construction off

of Van Emburgh Avenue and at two single-family homes to be constructed on Fillmore Drive. Pucci said the site plan was prepared under his direction. He said there is 130 feet of frontage along Van Emburgh Avenue and that the project has received “conditional approval” for a driveway on Van Emburgh from the county. Van Emburgh Avenue is a county road. The 44-unit complex and two homes will be located on a 15.6acre tract. Board Engineer Paul Azzolina noted the applicant had received conditional approval on its site plan application and subdivision application. Member Tom Sears, a councilman, questioned whether a traffic study had been completed and applicant attorney Jennings, said those concerns would be addressed by its traffic engineer. Sears also wondered Aug. 4 why board members were not supplied with all correspondence between emergency services officials and the applicant prior to the hearing. Jennings said they supplied all emails to the board secretary, who said she would make copies and transmit them to members during the meeting. Pucci noted the multifamily complex would include 90 parking CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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450 Pascack Road a long-haul project, suggests attorney TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

A neighbor of 450 Pascack Road cannot purchase two small township-owned properties abutting his property at least until township negotiations for 450 Pascack move further along, which the township attorney estimates is “going to take a while.” Indeed, it could head to condemnation and eminent domain proceedings, which could spark a protracted legal fight. “Nothingʼs going to be done until 450 progresses to where it progresses to… and thatʼs not a short-term situation just for your own information; itʼs going to take a while,” Township Attorney Kenneth Poller told Keith Jensen, new owner of 414 Pascack Road, at the Sept. 20 meeting of the governing body. Added Mayor Peter Calamari, keeping eye contact with Poller, “The only thing I think Iʼm safe in saying … there is no future yet for that [adjoining] property because we want to leave our options open to see what happens with 450, so the property that youʼre referring to I want to say weʼre not going to entertain selling it right now until 450 is done and then we see if we can use it as part of a combined type of project.” Calamari said 450 Pascack Road was to be a closed-session topic later that night. Jensenʼs request to purchase two slivers of nearby township-owned land was put on hold. The township recently offered owner Robert Morris $430,000 for his 3.2-acre 450 Pascack Road property and has not told its prospective owners, the taxpayers, what it intends the site for. The narrow property is next to both Memorial Field and Washington Elementary School. No information on negotiations has been released by township officials, attorneys, or Morris. A township-ordered appraisal from McNerney & Associates of Glen Rock placed the propertyʼs estimated value at $430,000. 450 Pascack Road includes a rundown 1,800-square-foot home, a small barn and garage, plus 700 trees, including more than 200 mature trees. Last summer, Lakos Construction Inc. proposed a 48unit independent senior living complex there, withdrawing the application after residents organized against it. Morris and a marketing agency had listed the property on commercial real estate sites for $2.1 million, due mostly to its development potential. The tract forms a buffer between nearly 15 propertiesʼ backyards on Ridgewood Boulevard East and Jackson Avenue and two public properties: Memorial Field and Washington Elementary School on its north side. Poller told Jensen that officials would not talk publically

about 450 Pascack Road and that any township-owned property sale must be analyzed to determine if such a sale is in the townʼs longterm interest. Jensenʼs property — 414 Pascack Road, at the corner of Ridgewood Boulevard East — closed for $525,000, according to New Jerseyʼs Multiple Listing Service. At meetings and in emails, Jensen has been asking the townʼs plans for neighboring 450 Pascack Road before he decides whether to improve his property, which he says could involve two adjoining exempt pieces of property heʼd like to buy from the township. He said after his inquiries to the town went unanswered he received a code violation over greenery said to be blocking the view of traffic. He tended to the problem, though he said the greenery belongs to the town, and told officials on Aug. 26, “I have not received a message from anyone with respect to my last two emails and a visit to the public hearing. However, I did receive a violation for a bush that needs trimming. Should I presume that in fact this is a response from the mayor and council?” He added, “My formal request is to know who directed the zoning official to visit my home and issue this violation.” At the Sept. 20 meeting, town business administrator Robert

Tovo said the official outreach Jensen received Aug. 25 “was not a citation, it was a notice.” We obtained a copy of the document given to Jensen, and it duly advises, “The Property Maintenance Official has conducted an inspection of your property and has found that you are in violation of Township Property Maintenance and/or Zoning Codes...” It came with a 10-day deadline for

remediation. Tovo also said Sept. 20 that he had talked to Jensen privately and the town now recognizes that the greenery in question is on its own property and will tend to it moving forward.

What is the townʼs interest in 450 Pascack Road? Beyond Jensenʼs comments Sept. 20, no one from the public

commented on 450 Pascack Road. Indeed, no public discussion has occurred on what the Township might use the residential property for, nor where public funds would come from for its purchase. This is in contrast to the debate surrounding the townCONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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cost of about $250,000 was donated to us by a generous donor and combined with grants, the cost was covered.” (For more, see “$268K awarded for Huff Pond care; summer fun in sight, Pascack Press, Jan. 9, 2021.) Meanwhile, the borough is assessing required responses due to the impacts from Hurricane Ida. Among the most crucial efforts is the removal of fallen trees within the Pascack Brook. Ghassali said the borough

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Hurricane Ida wreaked havoc on Huff pond and the new trail and the inlets the borough built this summer. Thatʼs according to Mayor Michael Ghassali, who adds, “Unfortunately, we will have to empty the pond again and clean and adjust the inlets.” Ghassali said FEMA will be footing most of the bill. “The initial

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obtained a proposal from Downes Tree Service which was discussed at the Sept. 28 council meeting. “We will file the necessary paperwork required for reimbursement.”

Planes plain loud; lobbying effort under way Ghassali added in his Sept. 25 report to residents, “The airplane traffic you see and hear above us has been an issue for the region. We are working with the surrounding towns to lobby the FAA to reroute the traffic over Route 17.” He said, “The FAA uses the route above us when there is extra traffic. We passed a resolution in support of the rerouting and sent it over to the FAA along with other townsʼ resolutions.” (For more, see “Teterboro flight path adjusted; Woodcliff Lake, in victory, urges vigilance,” Pascack Press, July 12, 2021.)

RENOVATIONS

Residents aid Rochelle Park Ghassali reported on the success of local residents, heeding a call to action, in aiding Rochelle Park, which was badly affected by storm flooding. The effort, organized by the council and headed by councilman Doug Arendacs, responded to the need after 650 Rochelle Park homes were damaged in Tropical Storm Ida. “Our amazing and generous Montvale residents sent over $4,000 worth of essential supplies and $2,500 to buy more essential products. Rochelle Park Townshipʼs committee recognized and thanked our residents for the needed help. Thank you to all who came and contributed,” Ghassali said.

side of town and the solution the borough developed with SUEZ. He said a town hall to present and discuss the matter will be announced. He said water pressure woes have been a problem here since the 1990s. (For more, see “Where to site water tanks? Suez proposal looks to cure water pressure woes,” Pascack Press, July 5, 2021.)

Water pressure In his roundup, Ghassali spoke to water pressure issues on the west

Get vaccinated According to to Ghassali, the boroughʼs Covid-19 and Delta-variant positive cases have been consistent at five to six cases per week since this June. “The majority of the cases are younger unvaccinated residents. Please continue to use safe practices. Vaccines are available at our CVS and Wegmans.” (It wasnʼt so long ago: “Ghassali: Stay home now; weʼll make up for lost time this summer,” Pascack Press, March 15, 2020.)

running the club for up to two years before possibly moving on to other recreation uses, to storing at least some public works equipment onsite. Members of the club, many of whom are owed bond refunds going back years, ultimately voted to sell to a summer camp operation for an undisclosed amount. We are reporting that story. Looking ahead, should nego-

tiations between the township and 450 Pascack Roadʼs owners hit an impasse, the Township can move to condemn the property and take it for fair market value for an identified public purpose. Late former mayor Janet Sobkowicz also tried to acquire 450 Pascack Road for the township but said at recent public meetings that the deal with Morris fell through.

450: Not so fast: WT attorney shipʼs failed effort to acquire the private 6.4-acre Washington Township Swim & Recreation Club, which Calamari was authorized to offer up to $850,000 for before making an ultimate $1 million bid. The administration gave several rationales for the acquisition, ranging from saving the land from developers, to trying its hand at

FROM PAGE 11

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More than 20 local senior citizen service providers are teaming up with Westwood For All Ages on Oct. 9, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a free, fun, and informative Westwood Thrive: A Day For Residents to Learn How to Thrive as We Age, and youʼre invited. The event, at at Veterans Memorial Park, promises an afternoon of resources and activities

that will showcase the importance of age-friendly planning, intergenerational relationships, and dynamic community building. Westwood for All Ages told Pascack Press the goal is “to help rebuild social and community connections that may have diminished for older residents during pandemic shutdowns and distancing while bringing forward a

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The boroughʼs annual Oktoberfest is set for Saturday, Oct. 2 from 4 to 9 p.m. at Rinzler Field. Enjoy a fun-filled fall day with a biergarten, petting zoo, pumpkin

patch, inflatables, balloon artists, and so much more. For more information write Director of Parks and Recreation Danielle McLeer at parkandrec@wclnj.com.

greater awareness and appreciation for what it means to be an Age-Friendly Community.” Local businesses and nonprofits participating include Meals on Wheels North Jersey, Bergen County Senior Services, Bergen Autumn Years Volunteers, Magazine, Senior Source, The Alzheimerʼs Association, Swapping Scenes, North Jersey Villages, Becker Funeral Home, Westwood Police Department, Westwood Cares, Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Westwood Senior Advisory Committee, Connex4NPO, Celebrate Westwood, Westwood Recreation, and the Westwood Public Library. • 11 a.m.: Why Age-Friendly? The Taub Foundation sharing the importance of how AgeFriendly movements can make a difference in the lives of residents as they age; • 11:30 a.m.: Aging in the New Era: Meals on Wheels North Jersey offers information on services including their newly launched music therapy program; • Noon: Making Your Home Safer as You Age: Senior Source presents HomeFit; • 12:30 p.m.: The Four Pillars of Retirement: Matthew Kitz of Edward Jones presents; • 1 p.m.: Declutter and Get Organized: Swapping Scenes

teaches how to declutter your home for safety and peace of mind; • 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga: Dr. Cathy Gurman of Westwood Family Chiropractic leads an interactive chair yoga session; and • 2–4 p.m.: Entertainment: Mama D & The Vexations and Perpetual Motion Dance Studio. Throughout the day, the Westwood Public Library showcases current literature and media of interest as well as the numerous community resources they offer for all residents and Westwood Recreation will offer demonstrations of their popular ForeverYoung programs pickleball and mahjong. Tabletop games, trivia and prizes for answering local and age-friendly focused trivia will also be featured. Westwood Thrive is gener-

ously sponsored by Becker Funeral Home, Edward Jones (Matthew Kitz), Hackensack University Medical Center (Pascack Valley), North Jersey Villages, The Paula Clark Group, Swapping Scenes, Valley Bank and Westwood Family Chiropractic.

About Westwood For All Ages Westwood for All Ages is an initiative to make Westwood an age-friendly community—a place where all people can live well and thrive even as they age. This program was created through a grant provided by The Henry and Marilyn Taub Foundation. The event is free. Register at westwoodforallages.org. For more information, write program manager Lisa Bontemps at lisab.ww4allages@gmail.com.

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The candidates have agreed and the moderator and venue are locked in: Tuesday, Oct. 12 at 8 p.m., at council chambers, with WCTV-NJ to televise and stream live — no Zoom required — with the public not attending in person. The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley, which moderated four years ago when the

debate was at the high school, is back for more. A system for forwarding voter questions to the event is being worked out. Candidates are first-term incumbent Republican mayor Peter Calamari with running mates Councilman Thomas Sears and Public Affairs Director Daisy

Velez, facing challengers Independent councilman and engineer Michael DeSena and running mates Fire Chief Kevin Zitko and financial planner Michael Werfel. All-volunteer WCTV airs on Fios 24 North NJ; Optimum 77 Westwood and WT and is simulcast on LocalBTV app. — Staff report

Library Calendar FROM PAGE 8

MONTVALE 12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org • Outside Family Storytime meets Tuesdays in October at 10:30 a.m. Infants and toddlers and their grownups are invited to sing, read stories, and have fun at the library. Held outside, weather permitting. Space is limited; registration required for each class. • Kick off the Halloween season with a virtual program presented by the New Jersey Ghost Hun-

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ters Society. At “Mysteries of the Paranormal,” via Zoom on Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m., learn about ghosts, cryptids, ouija boards, crop circles, and spontaneous human combustion. Register on the libraryʼs website. • Strength Training for Seniors is a virtual program that increases flexibility, strength, and endurance using easy-to-follow movements. Taught by Leena Kalle, certified senior strength training instructor, Thursdays in October (7, 14, 21, and 28) at 1 p.m., online via Zoom. Register for

Let us help announce your achievements. Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

as many sessions as you want. • Little Learners is an enrichment class for preschoolers and their grownups where families share, explore, and discover using books, activities, and songs. Thursday afternoons at 1:30 p.m., through October. Outdoors, weather permitting. Registration is required for each class. PARK RIDGE 51 Park Ave.

(201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org • Join Miss Renee for Storytime every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 10 a.m. in the First Friends room (across the hall from the library). Geared towards toddlers and preschool age, but open to all. Register in advance. Masks required. • Virtual Take-and-Make Crafts with Miss Renee is every Friday at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs

Facebook page. Miss Renee walks kids through a fun craft at home. You must call the library the Monday–Thursday before the craft to reserve your craft kit and it must be picked up that day. All ages. • Virtual Book It! Club with Miss Eileen meets live on the libraryʼs Facebook page Saturdays from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Stories, science, and more for primary grades. CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

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Dining & Cooking Guide

River Vale Seniors’ Halloween luncheon

The River Vale Seniors will be attending a Halloween luncheon at the River Vale Country Club on Oct. 22, with costumes optional. This is a members-only event. Reservations should be made by Oct. 6. The cost is $15 per person. New members are always welcome. Join the club for $15 by Oct. 6 and youʼll be able to

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attend the luncheon and any other activity the club plans for the coming year. “We are planning many activities including an appearance by a past and present newspaper columnist in March,” weʼre told. To join or for information on the luncheon, call Raul Otey at (201) 387-0753.

WESTWOOD

Harvestfest craft, antiques, gift fair Oct. 3

The Westwood Recreation Department announced that it will be hosting a new annual event — The Harvestfest Craft, Antiques & Gift Fair — on Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park. The Harvestfest Craft, Antiques & Gift Fair, organized by PJ Promotions, features the work of local area artisans, artists, designers and crafters as well a specialty food purveyors. Antiques sellers will also be on site with their eclectic mix of furniture, oddities and vintage toys and ephemera. The event will include a

pumpkin patch and fall flowers where local area shoppers can pick-up festive seasonal decor just in time for the upcoming autumn holidays. “Weʼre happy to bring this fun seasonal event to Veterans Memorial Park as a kick-off to our autumnal festivities including the Childrensʼ Halloween Parade and activities on Oct. 30,” Recreation Director Gary Buchheister told Pascack Press on Sept. 20. The event will be held rain or shine and admission is free for everyone. Interested vendors should contact PJ Info at pjspromotions.com.

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What do you think? Westwood is surveying local businesses on land use accommodations. Westwood business, your town entertainment, and use of nances of the Borough of Westwood,” the borough said Sept. 24. input on which pandemic-era land sidewalk for retail sales. The Westwood Planning A survey is posted at use measures the borough ought to Board meets on Oct. 21 at 8 p.m. consider keeping is sought on a tinyurl.com/PandemicLandUse. “The governing body is aware to discuss the resolutions and to survey and at an upcoming Planof the many benefits of seasonal develop its recommendations. ning Board meeting. The borough addressed its outdoor dining and enlivened Westwood businesses are invited business community last week streetscapes for the success of our to provide their feedback. The borough says, “Please saying that on Nov. 30 many land business districts and has asked the use resolutions passed in 2020 and Westwood Planning Board to con- note that no changes will be re-enabled in 2021 to assist in nav- sider which of these resolutions enforced prior to 2022. This solicigating the health, safety, and eco- might continue to benefit the itation for feedback does not nomic impacts of the Covid-19 municipality, its businesses, and its impact the resolutions currently on residents and therefore should be the books through Nov. 30, 2021 pandemic are set to expire. The resolutions include recommended to the governing when the outdoor dining season is things like outdoor dining, down- body for consideration as ordi- set to expire.”

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Dining & Cooking Guide

Ragamuffin Parade, anniversary gala

Mayor Keith Misciagna writes Sept. 27 with the following update to residents…

THE 2021 RAGAMUFFIN PARADE will be Saturday, Oct. 23 (rain date Sunday, Oct. 24). Costumed kids and their families should meet at noon to march in our parade, led by the Park Ridge High School Marching Band to the PRHS track. Each child will receive treats and a goodie bag. Thank you to the Recreation Committee for planning the event, and to our sponsors TD Bank, The Lollipop School, and Chestnut Ridge Pediatric Dental. Non-perishable donations for the Tri-Boro Food Pantry will also be collected. Anniversary Gala postponed to April 29, 2022 Unfortunately, given the state of the pandemic and the uncertainty of the next few months, the Anniversary Committee has made the decision to again postpone the 125th Anniversary Gala once again. It is now scheduled for April 29, 2022. Tickets will be available starting in January.

Borough services On your ballots this November you will see a question concerning renewal of our Municipal Open Space Fund. This fund is vital to keeping our parks, recreation facili-

ties, trails and green spaces in the borough safe and accessible to our residents. Each taxpayer pays into the Bergen County Open Space fund, but only those municipalities with a local fund can use the County funds. Our new field, our playground, our basketball court, our flowers around town, irrigation for our flowers are just a few things paid for with our municipal open space fund and County open space monies. Please follow on Facebook for pictures and more info: Facebook.com/Park-RidgeOpen-Space-Fund-Referendum. Food Pantry The Tri-Boro Food Pantry continues to see an increased need. If you are able to donate, please visit the pantry on Tuesday or Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m. You can also drop off donations at Borough Hall in the donation box located in the lobby during normal business hours. If you need to make special arrangements for a drop off time, call (201) 573-9083. American Legion Thank you to those of you who already donated. As you know the Legionʼs ability to fundraise was greatly affected by the pandemic. If you havenʼt had the opportunity yet, but would like to help the Legion tax-deductible donations can be sent to American Legion Post 153, 118 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge, NJ 07656.

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Steve Rich Named “New Best Friend” at Jack’s Cafe Steve Rich of the Steve Rich Group Oil Tank Removal and Concrete has beat out Chris Schneider of GC Schneider Construction for the best friend spot at Jack’s Cafe. When we asked Chris D‘Eletto of Jack’s Cafe why the change, D’Eletto said , “Steve just upped his game to a new level”. Schneider held the position for many years as Jack’s Best Friend, but Steve had just gone above and beyond and was able to snatch the title from Schneider.

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Amazing Foot Spa Grand Opening in Hillsdale Builds on Success

Patrons of the newly opened Amazing Foot Spa: A Wellness Sanctuary, at 142 Broadway, are learning what fans of Amazingʼs Demarest location have known for the past eight years: this works. Foot reflexology is ancient and feels amazing — it goes deeper than soothing the hard-working muscles of the foot. Your reflexologist has an expert understanding of targeted, pressure-point massage that restores the flow of energy, or chi, throughout the body. The treatment most often focuses on the feet, but it can include the hands and ears. Youʼll feel a firm and effective kneading of the ball of the foot, pulling of the toes, tracing around the heel, and pushing deep into the arch. There are additional options in neck, shoulder, back, and foot massage, which relaxes the muscles, relieves tension, and improves circulation. Whether seated or lying down for your massage, youʼll come away with improved overall health and a feeling of well-being: ener-

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gy for the day ahead or a settling out of tensions leading to a much more restful and restorative nightʼs sleep. Itʼs used for de-stressing, pain

management, and general wellbeing. According to owner Jeff Zhang, who mastered the practice in his native China and has

Best foot forward: Amazing Foot Spa, 142 Broadway, Hillsdale.

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brought it to the Pascack Valley, the benefits of his therapeutic foot spa are similar to the practice of tai chi, which is all about structure and the work to improve oneʼs posture, balance, and centeredness. Guests are hardly limited. Thereʼs a full menu to choose from, including Swedish massage, couplesʼ massage (with a sea salt soak coupleʼs room), deep tissue massage, Chinese tuina (pronounced twee-nah, itʼs similar to shiatsu), and a combo massage. But Zhang suggests a proper foot massage, under his expert hands or those of his reflexologists, as a delight that simply must

be experienced. “A lot of people donʼt know what a foot massage is. When they think of massage they think of a body massage. But the foot massage will have you feeling wow. You will feel better. Itʼs relaxing for your whole body,” he says. Zhang, who lives in Demarest, says his partner lives in Westwood and theyʼre excited to have branched out into the Pascack Valley. Their location in the borough, with close proximity to restaurants, shops, and the train station, is ideal. They have three reflexologists on staff offering appointments of 30 to 90 minutes (or more; theyʼre flexible), and look forward to adding more to keep up with demand. Amazing Foot Spa, 142 Broadway, Hillsdale and 37 Park St. Demarest. Seven days, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Walk in or call for appointment: (201) 497-3388. For more, visit https://amazingfoot-spa-nj.business.site.

44 units: Oct. 6 spaces, including 19 outdoor spaces and 71 indoors. He said state residential site improvement standards, or RSIS, requires 88 spaces for the 44-unit complex. He said the land is zoned AA for single-family homes, but that the multifamily development was approved by the townshipʼs affordable housing settlement. Concerns were raised about large vehiclesʼ access to the site — including fire trucks and garbage trucks — as well as possible waterpressure concerns for firefighting by member Vladimir Wojno-Oranski. Pucci said that would be documented later and did not need to be

FROM PAGE 10

addressed before the Planning Board. Sears, a volunteer firefighter, noted that “one of the first questions” asked was about the lack of access to the rear of the complex for firefighting. He asked Pucci to state where the firefighting standpipe hookups were in the development. Jennings said the architect would describe them during his upcoming testimony. At the Aug. 4 hearing, several nearby residents raised concerns about traffic, declining quality of life, snow removal, tree replacement, pedestrian safety, and unanswered questions about maintenance of dedicated open space on the property.

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Honoring: John ‘Johnny’ Cuffe Cuffeʼs life and faith was held at St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, Hillsdale. He is interred at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, N.Y. In lieu of flowers, donations were invited to the American Heart Association, which notes heart disease is the No. 1 killer in America.

About NJ Sharing Network NJ Sharing Network is the nonprofit organization responsible for the recovery and placement of donated organs and tissue for those in need of a life-saving transplant. Nearly 4,000 New Jerseyans are awaiting transplantation. It is part of the national recovery system in place for the 110,000 people on the national waiting list. Operating 24/7/365 with a team of more than 180 highly trained and dedicated members on staff, it delivers life-saving transplants and lifeenhancing tissue to those in need. To complete its important work, it offers four core services: • Managing all aspects of organ and tissue donation; • Supporting donor families; • Histocompatibility testing for deceased and living organ donors and recipients in our fully accredited state-of-the-art transplant laboratory; and • Educating communities and healthcare and medical professionals about their role in the life-saving process of donation. The organization says the first 5K Celebration of Life was held in

2011 at its headquarters in New Providence. “At the time, we could not have imagined the incredible impact this special gathering would have on the donation community.” It touts more than 80,000 participants, more than 1,000 teams, and 20,000 volunteer hours driving more than $9 million in donations. For more information visit NJSharingNetwork.org. — Staff report

The late John “Johnny” Fitzgerald Cuffe in a family photo

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OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

*** MY HUSBAND, JOHN CUFFE, was known to everyone as Johnny. Johnny was loved by everyone. His smile and infectious laugh would brighten a room. When he decided to become an organ donor, it came as no surprise to those who knew him best. Thatʼs the type of person he was: kind, compassionate, and hard worker; but most of all, generous. Johnny would do anything for anyone, whatever was asked of him. He never gave it a second thought and didnʼt want any acknowledgement. Johnny died suddenly on Dec. 16, 2017 at 53 from cardiac arrest at home with me. When NJ Sharing Network contacted me within hours of his death, I thought, Leave it to Johnny to give an everlasting gift to someone around the holidays. It wasnʼt until after Johnnyʼs death that I truly realized the importance of organ donation. I have since become an organ donor, and have become involved with the NJ Sharing Network. It has been a wonderfully rewarding experience filled with heartfelt emotions. Although Johnnyʼs death has left us with a hole in our hearts, it brings us comfort knowing his decision has saved and improved multiple lives. His memory will live on forever. *** THE FUNERAL MASS celebrating

FROM PAGE 1

OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Sc h ool News

Ask: Improvements sought for Memorial, Fieldstone and Fieldstone Middle School. The website can be accessed at montvalek8.org/future or via the school websiteʼs Quick Links drop-down menu under Dec. 14 Bond Referendum. “The Montvale Board of Education will ask residents to vote on Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2021 on funding for facility improvements and the construction of additional classrooms. In the months leading up to the vote, the district will offer many opportunities for residents to learn about the proposal and to hear and see firsthand what the improvements would mean for the schools and community,” reads the site copy in

FROM PAGE 1

part.

It says, “The tax impact of this bond referendum is estimated to be about $325 per year for a home assessed at Montvaleʼs average. Compared to 2020ʼs tax rate, the net impact is about $225 per year for that same home.”

And it says, “If approved by voters, the bond referendum will result in a property tax increase in fall 2022. The first building work would begin in the summer.” The site went live following the Sept. 27 school board meeting. The slide show that members saw on the referendum was yet to be added to the website as of Sept. 29. The site was designed by Laura Bishop Communications LLC of Cherry Hill, which plans additional engagement. School officials explained that the state only offers debt service aid, or financial assistance with bond payments, on school renovations or repurposing of school facilities, but not on new construction. School officials previously

RIVER VALE

River Vale Town Day Oct. 10

The Township of River Valeʼs Social and Cultural Affairs Department is happy to announce River Vale Day on Sunday, Oct. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Mark Lane Sports Complex. “Our goal for the event is to encourage our community to gather together and enjoy a variety of active events. This year we are inviting all local River Vale businesses, school

organizations and athletic groups to participate,” organizers told vendors. The event is open to local schools and clubs who can provide educational displays as well as vendors, retailers and artisans who would like to sell food or products. The event is not open to solicitation by any representatives of school, local, county, or state associations, political or otherwise.

The town added, “Free rides, chili cookoff, food, cornhole competition, stilt-walker and juggler, a DJ and live entertainment, animals, vendors, merchants, and fun! Donʼt miss it. Register now for the Annual Chili Cook Off.” Parking is at Holdrum Middle School and town hall. For more information, visit rivervalenj.org/378/River-Vale-Day.

PARK RIDGE

Elks Texas Hold-’em Tourney Oct. 8

Park Ridge Elks Lodge #2234 invites you to its Texas Holdʼem Tournament on Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. at 13 Sulak Lane. Sign up online and take

advantage of the additional 500 free chips for early registration online. Simply go to mikespokertables.com and scroll down to Oct. 8 at Park Ridge Elks and sign up.

Sandwiches, dessert and coffee will be served. Refreshments also available. For more information, call Joe Pedone at (908) 963-9686

told Pascack Press that approximately one-third of referendum funds would be for new construction; one-third for safety, security and new classrooms and STEAM labs; and one-third for building systems including new boilers, and replacement of inefficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Although specific dollar amounts were not yet publicly available, the referendum funds will go toward:

Safety and security • Upgrade security with replaced classroom doors, enhanced locking mechanisms, and new fire alarms; • Improve the front of Fieldstone to be ADA-compliant with a ramp, and create a separate entrance (better security) for when large events happen at the school. Education • Montvale is seeing significant development as previous commercial property is being converted into resi-

dential property. Planning for five new classrooms at Memorial Elementary School to keep class sizes small; • At Memorial, create a STEAM Lab; • At Fieldstone, create a STEAM Lab; • At Fieldstone, convert the existing wood shop into two modern art and music classrooms; • The existing art and music rooms would be repurposed into additional classrooms plus a wellness center.

Building system functioning • Replace old boilers; replace old heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; • Add air conditioning to all spaces that donʼt have it now or rely on inefficient window units. Restrooms (inside and out) • Build a restroom facility that is easily accessible from the Fieldstone athletic fields; • Renovate restrooms at both schools.

RIVER VALE

Beginner lacrosse clinic for kids starts Oct. 7

Adam K. leads a four-week lacrosse clinic at Mark Lane Turf Field ideal for motivated girls and boys in grades 2–5. Presented by the River Vale Mayors Wellness Campaign and Fitness with Friends, the clinic —running 4 to 5 p.m. on Thursdays, Oct. 7, 14, 21, and 28 — teaches the basics of catching,

throwing, cradling, ground ball pick-ups, dodging, shooting, and defensive stick work — all while having fun and building confidence in young players. Bring a lacrosse stick and a water bottle. The total fee is $49. Register at fitnesswithfriends.net/servicepage/beginners-lacrosse-skills-clinic.

FROM PAGE 15

RIVER VALE 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org • Are you a tea lover or just getting started and want to taste and learn? Join the libraryʼs Tea Club! Sign up each month to receive a sample of a different variety of tea. The pick for October is Cinnamon Apple herbal tea from Bigelow. Pickup begins the first Monday of the month. River Vale residents only. Register online. • The Great Pumpkin Decorating Contest has begun! To enter, decorate a pumpkin as your favorite animal. Email a picture of your pumpkin to Miss Tyne at tyne.runfeldt@rivervale.bccls.org by Oct. 17 with your name, grade, and what animal your pumpkin is decorated as. Vote online for your favorite pumpkin Oct. 18–24. Winners receive a $20 Dunkinʼ Donuts gift card and have their pumpkin picture displayed on the libraryʼs website. • Virtual Chair Yoga meets via Zoom on Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 11

a.m. This gentle form of yoga is designed for seniors and people with disabilities. Register for Zoom access. • The library hosts two screenings of the 2021 film “Cruella” (PG-13) on Tuesday, Oct. 5 in the community room. Catch the afternoon matinee from 1 to 3 p.m. or drop by for the 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. show. Seating is first come, first served. You must sign a waiver to attend. • Are you enrolled in Medicare? Will you be turning 65 over the next year or two? Learn about eligibility, how and when to enroll, when you can make changes, and the insurance options available to you at the virtual webinar “Medicare 101,” Wednesday, Oct. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. Register for access. • Preschool Story Time is all about reading stories, singing songs, and having fun. This program is held outdoors, behind the library (weather permitting), on Thursdays from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Next date: Oct. 7. Register online. • River Vale residents in

mask and be prepared to sign a waiver (if not previously signed). • Drop by the library on Saturday, Oct. 9 to pick up a Halloween Craft-to-Go for your child. Itʼs a candy corgi! One per child, grades pre-K to 5. Supplies are limited. Crafts are first come, first served. TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586 twpofwashingtonpl.org • The Tween Cartooning Class is in-person on Monday, Oct. 4 at 5:30 p.m. Grade 6 and up. Register online. Videos will also be posted on the libraryʼs Facebook

and website. • The Teen Halloween Bug Craft, for grades 6–12, will have kids making creepy crawly bugs— the perfect Halloween decor! Register online, then pick up the craft kit Oct. 4. How-to video available Oct. 7 on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and the libraryʼs website. (Registration is also open for the Oct. 28 craft, a Halloween Scare-errium!) • Virtual Preschool Story Time is every Tuesday at 10 a.m. Sessions are posted on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and the libraryʼs website. • Homework Help is availCONTINUED ON PAGE 39

OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Library Calendar

grades 4–8 can make their own black cat pillow at the Tween Sewing Workshop, Thursday, Oct. 7 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Join Miss Ellen of Sew It! Workshops for this in-person class. Participants will learn how to use a sewing machine to create a cute pillow for Halloween. Register online. • The Hybrid Knit & Crochet Club will meet both in person in the library community room and via Zoom on Friday, Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon. Bring a project to work on and chat with other members. New members of all skill levels are welcome. If attending virtually, register to receive meeting link. If attending in person, bring a

OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

24 MONTVALE

Diversity, Inclusion Committee fun

The boroughʼs Diversity and Inclusion Committee reports a lively schedule of events to save the date for… • Sunday, Oct. 10 at 4 p.m.: The Diversity and Inclusion Committee partners with Lifetime Fitness to host Baila Conmigo, a fun

Latin dance tutorial with raffles and prizes. The event, for all ages and abilities, takes place at the basketball courts on Memorial Drive. In the event of inclement weather, the event takes place in the Community Center across the street from the basketball courts.

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• Sunday, Oct. 17 at 4 p.m.: Visit the Diversity and Inclusion Committee booth at the Montvale Chamber of Commerce 10th Annual Montvale Street Fair. Paragon Drive will be turned into a giant street festival featuring more than 150 quality exhibitors, a special arts and crafts section, a kids area, community section, two food courts, and continuous live entertainment. Organizers say, “Our special Kids Traveling Shindig section,

held in front the parking lot by the Summit Avenue entrance, will be brimming with all kinds of fun stuff to do. There will be mechanical kiddie rides, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, sand art, temporary tattoos, and games. • October also is German and Italian month. The Diversity and Inclusion Committee hopes to recognize as many residentsʼ heritage as possible. Submit your ideas for events for next year. • Monday, Nov. 1 at 4 p.m.:

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Join the Diversity and Inclusion Committee as it collaborates with The Montvale Free Public Library to host a virtual Diwali celebration featuring a Rangoli craft via Zoom. Sign up started Oct. 1 and registration is limited to 25 families. Email the committee to register for the event. • Monday, Nov. 1: Deadline to submit proposals for events youʼd like the Diversity and Inclusion Committee to host in 2022. Email the committee for the link if you are interested in submitting a proposal. On Tuesday, Sept. 28, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee and the Montvale Free Public Library teamed up for a virtual storytime. Participants read “My Papi Has a Motorcycle” on Zoom. For more information, write diversitycommittee@montvaleboro.org . — Staff report

Pascack Press

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

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DR. KAPLAN: Improve your memory and focus in six steps

Here are six steps to improving memory and focus: • Eat right. Make sure that your diet is conducive to the overall health DR. ERIC KAPLAN, and functioning KAPLAN BRAIN & of your body. It BODY is necessary to seriously start avoiding sugar, as it is a leading cause of Alzheimerʼs disease. Scientists have found Alzheimerʼs disease is a combination of diabetes type 1 and diabetes type 2, and they may even change the name of Alzheimerʼs disease to diabetes type 3. It is also important to take your diet into your own hands and start cooking your own food. Avoid processed foods, natural or artificial flavors, food dyes, fast food, junk food, and pretty much any food in boxes, bags, or cans. Also, the brain loves healthy fat, so eat a lot of avocado, olives, fish, nuts, and seeds. The healthiest oils to eat are coconut oil and olive oil, and the healthiest oils to cook with are avocado oil and grapeseed oil. The internet is an amazing resource for all kinds of great recipes, from keto to paleo to vegan, and if you are on Facebook, join our group Kaplanʼs Lunch Box for recipes, pictures, and easy meals to cook that we post daily. • Avoid sitting. Many doctors are calling sitting the new smoking. Do you remember the Rule of 20? Never sit for more than 20 minutes straight. Every 20 minutes, stand up for at least 20 seconds, walk 20 feet, and look at something 20 feet away. So take that 20 second stretch or movement break, and then return to what you were doing. The brain

can only hold 3 major concepts at a time, so frequent breaks will improve production at work, as well as retention for school. Sedentary life is not good for metabolic processes and brain function, so start exercising and moving ASAP! • Stay hydrated. What happens to a grape when it is dehydrated? It shrivels up to a small raisin. Would you want your brain to be dehydrated and shrivel up as well? Therefore it is absolutely vital to be drinking plenty of wellfiltered water. You can optimize your hydration by drinking lemon water or pouring it over a pink Himalayan salt crystal. The lemon alkalizes the water and the salt adds many minerals. Remember the formula – you should drink half your bodyweight in ounces of water per day, at least. • Breathe correctly. Breathing is extremely important for brain function. Most people breathe shallowly, into the chest and raising their shoulders, but you should aim to breathe deeply, into the abdomen and push your diaphragm down and out during your inhale. Your exhalations should be twice the duration of your inhalations. So you can practice inhaling for three seconds and exhaling for six seconds, then increasing it to inhaling for four seconds and exhaling for eight. Keep adding one second every week until you work up to inhaling for eight seconds and exhaling for 16 seconds. When you exhale, make sure you breathe out every last breath of carbon dioxide because the more carbon dioxide you leave in your lungs, the more acidic your brain and body become. Your carbon dioxide helps give the trees, plants, and bushes the life they need, so not only are you helping

yourself, but you are providing for the environment, as well. • Stay active. Engage in new activities frequently. Diversify your workouts, your after-work activities, and the routes you take to different places such as the grocery store. If you do the crossword in the newspaper every day, consider changing it up like trying sudoku, the word jumble, playing cards, doing a puzzle, playing a board game, or finishing a maze. Doing the same activities stimulates the same areas of the brain, but neglects others. Try a physical activity that challenges the brain, like memorizing dance steps or going to a yoga class. There are also many simple things you can do on a regular basis such as brushing your teeth or your hair with the opposite hand, taking a new route to work, reading a book, putting your feet in the grass, dirt, or sand, meeting new people, visiting a new place, playing a sport, drawing a picture, putting something together, gardening in the yard, cooking a new dish, or teaching someone something new. • See us for neuroplasiticity work. You can rewire your brain to make it stronger. Donʼt let anyone tell you that your memory just gets worse with age, or memory decline is typical. That is not true, you just have to work harder as you get older. Maybe you need a brain bootcamp. At my Emerson office we do exercises to help improve your memory and focus. Itʼs like a personal trainer helping make your muscles stronger. However, instead of making your muscles stronger with weights and exercise machines, we make your brain stronger with neurological exercises such as balance exercises, eye exercises, memory exercises, breathing exer-

cises, and posture exercises. We also perform activities to increase reaction times, improve coordination, challenge your motor skills, and add sensory sensations like touch, smell, light, sound, and taste to maximize the brain's potential. It is all non-invasive, we do not use any medications, and perform no surgeries. It is safe and it is effective. A study came out recently that showed one-third of the people who had Covid-19 are now having neurological difficulties such as problems with memory and focus and are complaining of brain fog. Therefore, I want to bring functional neurology to everyone! We are happy to invite you to come in for a FREE BRAIN EXAM for any new patient! This limited time offer includes a oneon-one meeting with diagnostics tests where we can interpret which areas of the brain need therapy. We can start building a plan to promote new neural pathways which can improve many aspects of your life! The good news is that we have so many tools and resources that will help you to improve your brain function such as neurofeedback, hyperbaric oxygen chamber

therapy, cold laser, and many other ways that incorporate applied neuroscience and brain based rehabilitation. We hope you have enjoyed this article on memory and focus. Keep focusing on improving your health and brain function. I know it is not easy but if you start making small incremental changes to your daily life, the potential is unlimited. We are so excited to be building a healthier community that we are hosting a FREE inperson Boost Your Brain Power event with free organic food, free health and wellness lectures, free brain evaluations, free oxygen therapy, free cold laser therapy, free reading materials, special guests, and many free giveaways on Wednesday, Oct. 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. in a lecture hall in Dumont. Spots are limited and time is running out so email any time at info@kaplanbrainandbody.com, call our office at (201) 261-2150 or text us at (646) 2216738 to reserve your spot. Feel free to bring friends and family because we would love to talk to you about this unique and revolutionary approach to healthcare, and add you to our healthy family!

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WTVAC looks to double riders with HQ upgrade BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The Washington Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps is eager to move into the new Emergency Services Building as soon as itʼs ready, now on track for the first two weeks of January 2022. Thatʼs according to WTVAC Capt. Robert S. Rayve, who told Pascack Press on Sept. 28 that the corps — with its 15 active members, two ambulance rigs, and wealth of loanable medical gear — are particularly excited soon to have greater visibility in the community. “Personally I was always detached from the move-in date, because I know construction is always full of delays — two years ago we were saying, Well, when are we going to move in? So itʼs exciting to see the project moving along and getting closer to occupancy,” he said. The WTVAC, now at 354 Hudson Ave., near the municipal building, will move into the first floor of the $6 million-plus Emergency Services Building taking

shape next to the current firehouse, at 656 Washington Ave. (which itself will be razed). Project architect Robbie Conley, a former mayor and fire chief in Woodbury Heights, announced the approximate date of the buildingʼs occupancy last week. In 2018 he told the townʼs governing body that the current firehouse was too cramped, could not handle modern firefighting apparatus, and presented risks to firefighters. The town put together a committee of the administration, Conley, and the townʼs fire and ambulance volunteers, coming up with a wish list. Plans solidified from there, and Mayor Peter Calamari helped break ground on the works in 2020. The project, under general contractor Tekcon, has weathered a few hiccups, most strikingly the need for a re-roofing. Rayve acknowledged that some of the corpsʼ older members had not been as enthusiastic about the move — specifically, leaving behind a venerable headquarters the corps was deeded by the township — when it was first proposed. A vote by members supported the

change. Rayve said, “The general consensus now is that weʼre excited to move.” He added, “As a captain Iʼm excited because obviously we get a new facility, a fresh start, and weʼre going to have increased visibility over there. Where we are now people have no idea that were here.” And he said, “With the visibility that weʼll gain on Washington Avenue Iʼm hopeful that weʼll be able to recruit more members and be better able to serve the residents of the town and neighboring towns.” WTVAC, established in 1957, serves the Pascack Valley region as a volunteer emergency medical service, providing free healthcare for those in need. A member of the Pascack Valley Mutual Aid Group, the corps responds in the Township of Washington and Westwood, Hillsdale, Emerson, Tri-Boro (Park Ridge, Woodcliff Lake, Montvale), River Vale, and Old Tappan. WTVAC notes on its website that it provides pre-hospital care in medical and trauma emergencies and works closely with police, fire,

and advanced life support (ALS) personnel. In addition to offering youth membership, the corps encourages residents to learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), “an essential skill to have in the workplace, home, and anywhere else.” In what sounds typical of the nature of the ambulance corps, Rayve said his volunteers will hit the ground running when the word to move to the new facility is given. Rayve anticipated the townʼs road crew will pitch in to help, not least because theyʼre taking over the old ambulance headquarters for a bit while the DPW works through a soil remediation at its former headquarters in the same general area. Thereʼll be a fair bit of gear to move. “Weʼre one of the few ambulance corps that still accepts donations and loans out equipment like wheelchairs and crutches, etcetera, so we have a couple of sheds full of that stuff and weʼve got some donations of furniture that weʼll be able to use as well,” Rayve said. He said the corps lost a few older members amid the rise of

Covid-19 — folks who felt that due to their age or other risk factors were more vulnerable to the virus. “Now we have about 15 members riding — and we would like to double that. The challenge is that a lot of the people who are applying are high-schoolers, and by the time they get up to speed theyʼre off to college,” Rayve said. He added, “And thatʼs understandable; weʼre happy to perform that service, where we give them exposure to the medical community and hopefully give them a head start on their career in medicine. But the ideal person for us is 30–60 who is in town, working — or working from home — and has more time.” Rayve said volunteerism in the country is proving “more difficult than itʼs ever been,” with people who previously were drawn to helping out in the community now subject to many more distractions, including entertainment. For more information, stop by the Washington Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps Inc. at 354 Hudson Ave, call (201) 6643784, or visit wtvac.org. (The site also carries vintage pictures.)

5 WAYS TO HELP PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM FRAUD

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2017, according to one study from banking industry research firm Javelin Strategy & Research.? 3. Limit what you share on social media. Thieves scour social media profiles for clues to security questions, passwords, and other information that could help them impersonate potential victims online. First, set your profiles to private—and encourage your family members to do the same. Also, restrict your social media contacts to people you know personally. Finally, watch what information you disclose. Revealing too much personal information in your social profiles can put you at greater risk of identity theft, especially if your bank or other companies use that information to verify your identity. 4. Protect your home network. Create a strong password for your wireless network in your home. Consider using a unique phrase with a mix of letters and numbers. Avoid using any part of your email address or information shared on social media, like the

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the four seats being filled. The director and vice president are one position. Steve said the board was functioning as it should during the pandemic with the vacant spot. Paul offered the help of the Recreation Commission to fill the fourth seat. There was a discussion about whether or not there was a need to fill the vacant spot. It was not resolved. During the discussion Steve made the comment to Paul, ʻThe Mayor put me here to keep you in check.ʼ” The minutes from the subsequent meeting, this Jan. 6, show that Mayor Danielle DiPaola attended to welcome new members and to clarify that she had not asked Paino to keep Coombes in check but “in fact had asked Steve to keep an eye on a different member of the board, someone who is no longer on the commission.” The minutes add, “She further explained that she had appointed Steve Paino to the board because she was concerned about alleged behavior [later characterized as disruptive] of certain members.” Paino apologized. As the minutes note: “He he did not recall any names being mentioned in his discussions with the mayor or when he made the comment at the last meeting.” Coombes is recording saying that he did not appreciate the remark at the Dec. 2 meeting “and would never appreciate it, but was willing to move on.”

FROM PAGE 2

RV’s Cheryl Berkowitz on achievement To the editor: a conversation with a River Vale community Imember who asked me what I RECENTLY HAD

mean when I use the word “achievement.” I see achievement as growth. Academic achievement is the extent to which a student or school (district) has achieved either short or long term educational goals. Achievement is individual to each student and each school (district). No two are exactly the same and the mindset of one size fits all, does not work. Our districts test scores have been on a slow decline over the past eight years. Which just so happens to coincide with when the philosophy of “teaching to the average student” was implemented district wide. I do realize that our district does allow families to “opt out” and this too has a large impact on our district scores. The problem with “teaching to the average student” is that achievement to one student may be status quo for another. Our district needs to address this achievement gap so our students can reach their potential. We owe this

Big thanks to Hodges, volunteers To the editor: for the work IourCheryl Hodges has done for town in her role as our counAM SO THANKFUL

cilwoman. For me itʼs very personal. During the height of the pandemic, my 94-year-old mother was brought from her home in Emerson to the hospital. Mom was fiercely independent and doing things on her own. But we thought she was having a stroke so we called an ambulance. This was before the vaccine was widely available. So no one was allowed into the hospital to visit her. Not even immediate family. We were told sheʼd developed pneumonia and had COVID. She died two days later, alone, with strangers, not family, around her. I never got to see my mother before she passed away. It was the most horrible situation you can imagine. Councilwoman Hodges led the effort that got our most vulnerable seniors vaccination appointments. Her group of volunteers saved so many Westwood families the grief and the guilt that my own family experienced. And for that alone ,she has earned the votes of every Westwood family; whether Republican, Democrat or Independent. The shared misery that COVID-19 brought to Westwood was nonpartisan. So was the blessed relief that Councilwoman Cheryl Hodges and her volunteers brought to our residents. JoAnn Regino Westwood

Towns to team up on air traffic To the editor: noticed an increase in air traffic over W our area and especially in the E ALL HAVE

afternoons and on Sundays. We passed a resolution supporting moving the air traffic route and sent it to FAA, as did Woodcliff

Lake. At our last nightʼs [Sept. 28] M&C meeting I announced that we will form a committee to coordinate with neighboring towns and attend monthly FAA meetings in Teterboro to continue to voice our concerns in person. These FAA meetings are open to the public. I will continue to update you as I get more information. This is the latest update: July 27, 2021: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented an alternative air traffic procedure for arrivals to Runway 19 at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey. The procedure uses satellitebased technology to guide a mix of aircraft along a pathway that generally follows New Jersey State Route 17 to Runway 19 at Teterboro Airport. This alternative procedure does not replace the existing conventional instrument approach which will remain the preferred approach for Runway 19. The agency started using the procedure on July 1, 2021. The FAA developed the procedure at the request of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the Teterboro Airport Noise Abatement Advisory Committee. The procedure provides a viable alternative approach to Runway 19 that will help reduce the number of aircraft flying over the Hackensack University Medical Center and the surrounding residential areas. The new procedure will not be available for use during periods of poor weather, low visibility or high traffic volume due to complexity of the airspace and air traffic controller workload. The best opportunity for the alternative approach procedure to be used is during the overnight hours when air traffic demand and complexity for the New York and New Jersey metropolitan area is reduced. The agency conducted an Environmental Assessment and held public meetings on the procedure in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), which requires FAA to identify and publicly disclose the potential environmental impacts of proposed air traffic procedures. The Final Environmental Determination was issued in September 2020. Mayor Michael Ghassali Montvale In an email to residents

Her Calamari vote was ‘a mistake’ To the editor: manager for DeSena, Werfel & Zitko: ITownship Residents First. AM CO CAMPAIGN

It may surprise many of you to know that I happily voted for Calamari during the last election! So what changed? Well I started paying attention! Unfortunately, it

took a high-density development in my neighborhood to get my attention. But that was it. I started attending meetings, listening to meetings and saw over and over again concerns being dismissed, questions from tax-paying citizens met with eye rolls and annoyance. I was actually told at one point, by an elected official, that if I didnʼt like what was happening I should move. Either way, I started paying attention, not just to the unprecedented amount of development that was entering our town under

Montvale won’t forget Sept. 11 To the editor: 9/11 monument is completed and as we T remembered the 20th anniversary HE

MEMORIAL

of this tragedy we remembered the victims and the first responders. We also thanked and appreciated the Fire Departmentʼs committee that worked hard all year

the current administration but also to frivolous spending, terrible budgets, grant money being left on the table, and nepotism. So despite Calamari getting my vote the last time, I have learned... I will not make that mistake again. Trust me, all you have to do is a little bit of research and you will know who deserves your vote! Michael DeSena, Michael Werfel and Kevin Zitko! Letʼs make it happen! Megan Callea Township of Washington round to meet the deadline to build the monument. Committee: Chief Geoffrey Gibbons, Former Chief Clinton Miller, Lt. Rick Alton, Commissioner Jim Nicol, President Craig Miller Sr., Secretary Craig Miller Jr., Treasurer Jeff Ballanco. This candid and unplanned picture was taken by coach Mike Weaver. It tells exactly how we all felt on that day. We donʼt want anyone to forget what happened on 9/11/2001. Mayor Michael Ghassali Montvale

OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Letters:

to our children and our community. If elected, I will work with the BOE and administration to advocate for the implementation of various strategies which will allow our teachers to unlock student achievement. We are too good not to be doing better! Experience and a fresh new perspective. Vote for Cheryl (Dunkiel) Berkowitz. Cheryl (Dunkiel) Berkowitz River Vale

OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Emergency: New fire, ambulance HQ expected in Jan. upgraded in the 1960s — will be razed, and the lot paved in spring or summer. At the construction site on Sept. 28, we asked town administrator Robert Tovo for comment on the likelihood of commuter parking at the old firehouse site. “As of right now itʼs very unlikely thereʼll be room for commuter parking here. So weʼre looking for alternatives,” Tovo said. The Washington Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps, now at 354 Hudson Ave., near the municipal building, will move into the first floor of the new $6 million-plus Emergency Services Building. Also in 2022 the nearby Washington Avenue and Pascack

FROM PAGE 1

Road intersection likely will be reconstructed under a shared services agreement the town worked out with Bergen County. (See “Mayor: With land taking, intersection fix good for spring,” Pascack Press, Sept. 25, 2021.) Meanwhile, as neighbors continue to object at council meetings to the size and scale of the new Emergency Services Building, the council on Oct. 4 is expected to take up a discussion on review procedures for such town projects. (See “Reforms for public projects now eyed for Oct. 4 session,” Pascack Press, Sept. 25, 2021.) 631 Washington Ave. residents John and Lynn Pistono have asked the Township Council to reduce the buildingʼs height and scale at several meetings, com-

Architect Robbie Conley (seated) confers with a Tekcon supervisor and subcontractor (opposite and right) and another worker during a Sept. 28 site visit at the under-construction Emergency Services Building. / Mike Olohan photo.

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Volunteer fire and ambulance personnel flank Mayor Peter Calamari at a groundbreaking ceremony for the new fire and ambulance HQ on Washington Avenue near Pascack Road on Sept. 27, 2020. With Covid delays, the building will be ready within the first two weeks of 2022, the project architect told Pascack Press last week. / John Snyder photo.

plained about shoddy workmanship, and questioned storm runoff, illumination issues, and the buildingʼs decorative cupola. While not agreeing to make any changes in the design — which was approved more than two years ago — councilmember Steven Cascio said the problems that have developed with residents should not be repeated. One sticking point: residents within 200 feet complained they did not receive notification of the project by certified mail but rather

were notified via standard mail, town attorney Ken Poller previously said. Poller has noted that municipal projects need not meet the same conditions and notification requirements as do developer and homeowner projects. Most residents seemed surprised that the same project review standards did not apply to township-sponsored construction projects. Former councilman Michael Ullman pointed out that although the town isnʼt required to

meet these conditions, neither is it prevented from following them. Cascio said council would consider a measure to impose similar review requirements on municipal projects that are currently on both developer and homeowner projects. That discussion, anticipated at the most recent council meeting, was pushed to Oct. 4, with Council President Stacey Feeney saying sheʼd asked Poller to come back then with a draft proposal.

al delays, the installation of the synthetic turf is scheduled for early October. • Fieldstone Fields Restroom Facility: This will be included in the school referendum to build a permanent structure

Drive: This application for a new tenant includes several site improvements related to their operations. No hearing date set. • Moksha/Valley View SubDivision – 89 Valley View Terrace: The applicant received approval on Oct. 6, 2020 for the construction of two homes on this undeveloped lot, which will be accessed from a new cul-de-sac off of Valley View Terrace.

lock Road: This 20-home subdivision off Woodland Road has 16-homes occupied, and two homes under construction. Two undeveloped lots remain in this development. COAH fees will be collected once the applicant applies for the construction of the final home site. • North Market/Triboro (former Mercedes property): The Office Building No. 2 is partially occupied while work is ongoing. Construction is also ongoing for the residential components of the Phase I development (Building Nos. 1 & 3). • Premier Development (Alexa), 160 Spring Valley Road: This 81-unit townhome development north of Upper Saddle River Road has 30 units occupied in six of 11 buildings. The club/amenities building, on an adjacent lot in New York, is complete. • Thrive (Pike Development)/110 Summit: The applicant projects completion and occupancy in the fall of 2021/winter of 2022. Montvaleʼs engineers met with representatives of the contractor on July 19 regarding site conditions, and work continues on the site which is nearing completion. The applicant has been approved for additional site amenities, including pickleball courts, a dog park, and walking trail.

Montvale: Ghassali reports… FROM PAGE 7

Planning Board Applications • De Pieroʼs/Montvale Development Phase II – This application was approved by the Board on June 15 and final resolution compliance and bonding estimates are scheduled to be prepared. • Montvale Family Apartments: The resolution approving this application for a 25-unit development on Summit Avenue, at the intersection with Craig Road, was adopted by the board Sept. 21. • Bank of America, 80 Chestnut Ridge Road: The applicant has requested that its application for proposed site improvements including lighting, landscaping, signage, etc. be carried to a future hearing. • Mobius Solar I, LLC, 5 Paragon Drive: This application for installation of solar panels over portions of the parking lot was approved at the March 2 meeting. There has been no activity on this application or permits requested from the borough. • Balchem Corp, 5 Paragon

Planning Board inspection projects • De Pieroʼs Lifestyle Buildings: Onetenant space is vacant in the Ulta building. • AR Landmark (Hornrock) – One Sony Drive: A preconstruction meeting was held on Aug. 3. This development includes 185dwelling units over parking in the Montvale portion of the larger AR Landmark development in Montvale, Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake. (448-units are proposed for the Park Ridge portion of the site). • Village Springs at Montvale (former A&P site): A model townhome is open at 10 Driftway Lane, and the applicant has sold several units and will be filing for certificates of occupancy in the near future. Work to stabilize and rebuild the north pond retaining wall continues. This project includes the construction of 80townhouse units in 18-buildings at 2 Paragon Drive. • Woodland Heights/Flint-

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James F. MUGGEO

OBITUARIES

at Pratt Whitney where he made lifelong friends. He switched careers and taught chemistry at Westwood Regional High School for 27 years before retiring. Len enjoyed gardening, bonsai, ceramic sculpture, hiking, and biking. He was the director of the Teaneck Garden Club Greenhouse and president of the Bergen County Bonsai Society. Len is survived by his partner, Manya Salwen, and nephew, Michael Schwartz. Besides his parents, Len is preceded in death by his sister, Ella Schiff. In keeping with his wishes, his body was donated to Northwestern College of Health Sciences, Seneca Falls, N.Y. Lenʼs family request memorial donations be directed to the Teaneck Garden Club/Greenhouse, P.O. Box 5, Teaneck, NJ 076660005.

James Francis Muggeo, 66, of Northvale, formerly of Naples, Fla., and Woodcliff Lake, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021. Adored brother of Deborah Juneja and husband Surinder and Susan Polles and husband Thomas. Cherished son of Mary Muggeo and the late Francis Muggeo. Loving father of Amy Bingamon and husband Chaz and Tausha Christensen and husband Eric. Proud grandfather of Justin and Tyler. Dear uncle of Thomas, Kaitlyn and Zoe. Jim was a member of the first graduating class of St. Joeʼs High School in Montvale and received a bachelorʼs degree in business from the University of Southern Florida. He was a plumber in Naples. Upon Loretta T. retirement he moved back to New DEMMERLE Jersey and enjoyed being a school crossing guard in Harrington Park. Loretta T. Demmerle (née A Funeral mass was held at Thompson), 92, of River Vale Our Lady of Victories R.C. Church, passed away peacefully on Sept. Harrington Park, with entombment 20, 2021 with her following at Garden of Memories, loving family by Washington Township. her side. In lieu of flowers, donations in She was born in Jimʼs memory may be made to St. Jersey City to Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital, Florence and Leo www.stjude.org. Thompson. Beloved wife of almost 69 years to Leonard Fred Demmerle. Devoted mother SCHWARTZ to Gail Reardon and her husband Leonard Schwartz, 78, passed David. Loving and sassy grandma away unexpectedly, Sept. 11, 2021, to Tyler and his fiancée, Harli. in Rochester, N.Y., while attending Her extended family includes the U.S. National Megan Demmerle-Geier, James Bonsai Exhibition. Geier, Derek Geier, and James and Len was born Erynne Reardon, who will miss on July 6, 1943 in her. Kingston, N.Y., the She was predeceased by her son of Louis and adored son, Kurt Demmerle, and Ethel (Goldwasser) her siblings, Florence Eisen, Schwartz. Leonard Thompson and Evelyn He graduated from Brown. City College of New York with an Loretta resided in Paramus for engineering degree and began work 31 years before moving to River

Vale in 1986. She was a parishioner of St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church in Old Tappan. She had worked at Quest Diagnostics for over 10 years. Upon their retirement, Fred and Loretta took many trips, the highlight being a cruise to Alaska. They also enjoyed trips to various national parks and other places where they could enjoy nature. In lieu of flowers, donations to River Vale Ambulance Corps, TriBoro Ambulance Corps, or the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge (RBARI) would be appreciated.

Vincent J. FICARRA

Vincent James Ficarra, 94, of Westwood, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021. He was born on April 4, 1927 in Brooklyn, N.Y., to Anthony and Angelina Castagna Ficarra. He was predeceased by his brother, Anthony Ficarra, Anthonyʼs wife, Elinor, and his goddaughter, Victoria. Vincent James leaves his devoted nieces, Bernadette Morello and her husband, Jim, Christine Lyons and her husband, Jim, and his great-nephew and nieces, Everett and Emerson Lyons and Michelle Sharpe. He is also survived by many of his cherished cousins and other close family members. Vincent worked for the New York Telephone Company for 30 years before retiring. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. He was a member of the Holy Name Society, 50-Plus Club and the Telephone Pioneers. He was a very active parishioner of St. Andrew R.C. Church, Westwood, where he served in many ministries including serving as a Eucharistic Minister. Jim, as he was affectionately called by his family, enjoyed photography,

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especially taking 3-D stereo slides that his family will cherish for years to come. Funeral mass was held at St. Andrew R.C. Church, Westwood, with interment following at Ascension Cemetery, Airmont, N.Y. Donations can be made to St. Andrewʼs Food Pantry or your favorite charity in Vincentʼs name.

James V. MUCCI

James Victor Mucci, 77, of the Township of Washington, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021. He was born in Paterson to James and Anne Mucci. Devoted and loving father of Amanda, Michael, and Kristopher Mucci. Dear brother of Sandra Toth. He is also survived by his former wife, Cheryl Mucci. James worked a successful career for 50 years as a sales representative in the fashion industry where he developed many meaningful friendships. Jim brought laughter and light to any room he was in. His sense of humor and witty remarks always had everyone laughing. Interment, Cedar Lawn Cemetery, Paterson.

Stuart A. HIMES

Stuart Alfred Himes, 88, of the Township of Washington, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021. He was born in Teaneck to Alfred and Effie Himes. Beloved husband of Jean Himes. Devoted father of Brenda Brazdzionis (Mark) and Diane Himes (Bruce). Loving grandfather of Andrew and Timothy. He is predeceased by his brother Donald. Before retiring, Stuart was vice president of Don C. Himes Lincoln Mercury, Hackensack. He proudly served our country as a member of the U.S. Army. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Stuartʼs name to either Wounded Warrior Project or Christ Lutheran Church, Woodcliff Lake.

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Dieter C. Heppner, 83, of Westwood, formerly of New Milford, passed away peacefully on Sept. 24, 2021. Beloved husband of Irmgard (née Benisch) for 56 years. Devoted father of Joachim and his wife Jennifer and Corinna Walsh and her husband Rich. Loving grandfather of Julia, Logan, Kira, Lauren and Jack. Dear brother of Elli Heinze, Roswitha Eggert and the late Claus, all of Germany, along with their children. He spent 40 years at Sanitation Equipment Corp. in Paramus where he worked as a mechanic. He also was a proud member of the Bavarians of New Jersey. He will be dear-

ly missed. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to the American Heart Association in his name.

Jenna ANTONACCI

Jenna Antonacci, 36, of Montvale passed away peacefully on Monday, Sept. 20, 2021. Beloved wife of Stephen Barnett. Devoted mother of Lincoln and Luke Antonacci-Barnett. Loving daughter of Johanna and the late Edward Antonacci. Dear sister of Laura, Doreen and Keri. Niece of Leta Gandolfini. Also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, other relatives and friends. Jenna was a certified personal trainer. She was a loving and devoted mother and partner and was an avid fan of the Dave Matthews Band. Funeral mass was at Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church, Park Ridge. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jenna may be made to St. Francis Breadline, stfrancisbreadline.org.

Nicholas J. RIZAS

Nicholas J. Rizas, 50, of River Vale, formerly of Hackensack, passed away on Friday, Sept. 17, 2021. Born in New York City. Loving son of Helen and the late James N. Rizas. Dear brother of Kyriaki Marina Rizas and Athanasios “Tom” Rizas and his wife Dawne. Cherished uncle of Hunter and Nate. Funeral Liturgy was at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Theologian, Tenafly, with interment following at Hackensack Cemetery.

Gregory W. PERINI

On Sept. 17, 2021, at the age of 55, Gregory William Perini of Hillsdale went home to be with his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Surrounded by family, his long battle with illness came at last to an end, and his never-ending life of joy began. Greg was born in Suffern, N.Y., on June 6, 1966, the second of James and Florence Periniʼs three children. He graduated Nanuet Senior High School in 1984 and Albany State University in 1989, later going on to become associate vice president with Western World Insurance. An avid golfer and sports enthusiast to his core, Greg was an ardent fan of the New York Yankees, New York Rangers, Washington Redskins, and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. His musical tastes ran the gamut from classical to rock and even the odd country band, although the family does not acknowledge the last of these in any official capacity. His greatest passions, however, were reserved for his wife and daughters whom he affectionately CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

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Invasive bamboo ordinance rises for adoption Oct. 4 BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFF LAKE

An ordinance introduced Sept. 13 aiming to control the spread of an invasive plant native to East Asia in Japan, China, and Korea is up for public hearing and final vote Oct. 4. Borough Business Administrator Tom Padilla said that officials have been receiving increasing complaints about bamboo posing problems between neighbors in the borough for years. The measure includes penalties of as much as $100 a day for violations. More than a dozen municipalities in the Garden State have passed ordinances stipulating where bamboo can be planted. In 2020 the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled that landowners who want to take their neighbors to court over the destruction of trees or shrubs as a result of bamboo plantings run awry must prove a hit to property

Bamboo is invasive and hardy. (Photo: Artep/ Flickr)

value.

Uprooting the problem Woodcliff Lake Ordinance 21-13 says in part that certain types of the plants are invasive, often difficult to control, and can cause significant property damage. The measure aims “to preserve and protect public and private property from the damaging spread of bamboo [and] to protect

indigenous and other plant materials from the invasive spread of bamboo.” It defines bamboo as a woody perennial grass plant species classified under the taxonomic family Poaceae that may be known as running bamboo, clumping bamboo, common bamboo, golden bamboo, and other names. The code enforcement officer would enforce the ordinance, which notes growers must make sure the plant maintains “a clear distance of 10 feet from any property line, street, public property or borough right-of-way, or from any neighboring property, whichever is the most restrictive to the bamboo owner.” Upon adoption, the ordinance prohibits the planting of bamboo on any borough property. Moreover, within 180 days of adoption, bamboo owners are required to notify the code enforcement officer by certified mail of the presence of bamboo on their property. The ordinance details prohi-

bitions, an ownerʼs duty to confine the plant, and removal if bamboo encroaches on anotherʼs property or public property. If an owner fails to remove bamboo on a public right-of-way, the owner will be assessed penalties and the bamboo removed (and barriers installed) to prevent intrusion on public property. The section on violations and penalties notes a penalty of up to $100 per day can be issued. The cost of removal/containment is the ownerʼs responsibility and if not paid, will be made a lien on the property. Acknowledging that the plant is quite aggressive and known for spreading within and outside property boundaries, Padilla said, “Youʼve got to start somewhere. Is it going to solve the whole problem? Iʼm sure itʼs not but at the end of the day it does give some guidance and addresses it.”

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Drive-thru blessing of the animals Oct. 4

Save the date for Blessing of the Animals at Christ Lutheran Church, at 32 Pascack Road, on Monday, Oct. 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. CLC says, “Youʼre invited to a special celebration as we bless the special furry (and no so furry) friends in our lives. We know our pets are more than just pets. They are members of our families and have been there for us during this pandemic. Weʼll honor these cats, dogs, hamsters, rabbits, and even stuffed animals, with a drive-thru blessing.” The church adds, “Worship will be held outdoors (weather

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permitting) or in our large fellowship hall. All animals and their humans are welcome.” Enter at the entrance nearest Pascack Road, then drive around the building. In the main lot, Pastor Marc will offer a blessing at a safe distance. Please wear your masks during the blessing. “All animals — large and small — are welcome! If your furry buddy does not do well in

cars, you may bring a photo as well.” For more information call the church office at (201) 391-4224 or email clc4u2@verizon.net. Christ Lutheran Church serves Woodcliff Lake and Northern Bergen County. Worship on Sundays mornings at 9 and 10:30 Find the church on Facebook, Youtube, or Instagram and visit www.clc4u.com.

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REAL ESTATE District: WWRSD policy backs state on vax order vaccine, and says in part, “The CDC has emphasized that Covid19 vaccines are effective in that they can prevent individuals from getting and spreading the virus, and can prevent severe illness in indi-

FROM PAGE 6

viduals who do contract Covid-19.” He explains state aid is available to schools to comply with related executive orders, and explains that a previous executive order, on mask wearing indoors, includes exceptions where appropriate.

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Local reactions A Washington Township resident speaking at the public microphone called Executive Order 253 an “unlegislated mandate.” Pontillo argued, “There should be some exceptions to the policy and also the executive order.” He added that while he understands “the need for safety and healthy schools and employees, I understand that people have the fundamental right to privacy free from intrusion from the government.” Pontillo asserted there were “many unknowns” about Covid-19, the vaccines, and the long-term effects. “I canʼt in good conscience vote to mandate an employee to do something with their body.” Pontillo said he considered the governorʼs order an “unfunded mandate.” Sembler said she was “uncom-

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fortable mandating and enforcing this policy… This is a tough one for me.” The policy defines covered workers as all individuals employed by the Board of Education, both full and part-time, including, but not limited to administrators; teachers; educational support professionals; individuals providing food, custodial, and administrative support services; substitute teachers, whether employed directly by the Board of Education or otherwise contracted; contractors; providers; “and any other individuals performing work in the school district whose job duties require them to make regular visits to the school district, including volunteers.” Snee said his disagreement with the vaccine policy did not reflect on the administration or

interim superintendent. He called the state-mandate vaccine requirement “an intrusion on individual personal liberty” and then said he would abstain from voting. The School Employee Vaccination Requirements policy lists five documents that covered employees can use to prove their vaccination status. Either: • A CDC Covid Vaccination Card; • An Official NJ Immunization Information System record; • A vaccination record signed by an accredited health care provider; • A military immunization record; or • A Docket mobile immunization record or certified digital health record.

Unvaccinated workersʼ weekly testing According to the districtʼs policy, an unvaccinated covered worker is required to submit proof of a Covid-19 test. The unvaccinated covered worker may choose either antigen or molecular tests that have EUA by the FDA or are operating per the Laboratory Developed Test requirements by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Where a Board of Education provides the unvaccinated covered worker with on-site Covid-19 test(s), the district might similarly elect to administer or provide access to either an antigen or molecular test. If the covered worker is not working on-site in the school district during a week when testing would otherwise be required, the superintendent or designee may not require the worker to submit to testing for that week. “This requirement shall not supplant any requirement imposed by the Board of Education regarding diagnostic testing of symptomatic workers or screening testing of vaccinated workers,” the policy says. And it says the board “shall track test results required by Executive Order 253 and must report those results to the local public health department.” It also says the board is free to revise the policy to include additional or stricter requirements.

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tion would solely own the on-site sewage pump station for the 66unit complex and that the township has no responsibility for its functioning. He said the association had agreed to put $70,000 in escrow for emergency repairs and will have a licensed engineer to maintain the facility. Shimanowitz pointed out that Vivian Court will be a privately owned street, which the townhomes will front, and be maintained by its homeowners association. He said that Genevieve Drive and James Anthony Avenue will be public streets maintained by the town, including snow plowing. Since its original application in 2001, and original approval in 2004, the development has been beset by legal battles over affordable housing, wastewater management issues and lately with neighbors over potential stormwater impacts and privacy concerns. Questions about the projectʼs high-density development and potential stormwater impacts on nearby homes were settled over time: first by reducing the complex from 73 units to 66 units and a separate legal settlement between the Concerned Citizens of Washington Township (mainly neighbors on nearby Katharina Place) and an attorney for American Dream. The Sept. 22 special meeting was the fifth hearing on Vivianoʼs amended preliminary site plan — its initial hearings began in 2018 — and the final two-hour hearing featured technical questions, attorney summaries, a few public comments, and the boardʼs vote.

FROM PAGE 3

Tree code yields $61K contribution Shimanowitz and members Sears and Calamari agreed on a tree replacement plan for the 826 trees being removed. Given the townshipʼs 2:1 replacement ordinance passed in 2013, the applicant is required to provide 1,652 replacement trees on site, which would be approximately 39 trees on each property lot, which cannot physically be done. The applicant agreed to plant 585 trees on site, plus over 2,000 shrubs and bushes, and donate $61,250 for the planting of 175 trees town-wide, based on an agreed cost of $350 apiece. Sears said a recent Green Team inventory showed 205 trees were needed in the townʼs five parks, and the town received a state forestry grant this year to plant 30 trees. That left 175 trees that needed to be added in local parks, he said. While agreeing to the plan, Shimanowitz said he wished to reserve his clientʼs right to contest the pact based upon the tree replacement ordinanceʼs passage in 2013. That was nine years after the original Viviano approval for a

73-unit development passed the Planning Board in 2004. The ordinance allows exceptions, Shimanowitz said, noting the tree replacement requirements can be waived under certain circumstances if the applicant cannot replace removed trees at a 2:1 ratio. In residentsʼ own words Koch Peak Avenue resident Tommy Snee asked whether the township would have responsibility for sewage pump station maintenance and was told by Shimanowitz that it would be the responsibility of the homeownersʼ association. Shimanowitz also confirmed a prior agreement that sets up a $70,000 escrow account with the township for pump station contingencies. A copy of the draft homeown-

ers association agreement was to be provided by Shimanowitz to be reviewed by Lamatina to make sure it includes all the conditions the applicant agreed to. Snee wondered how many bedrooms were in planned units. Azzolina said that most townhomes will have three bedrooms while the single-family homes will mostly have four bedrooms. Two-year resident Anthony Snarski wondered how the development would affect local taxes, schools, and traffic on Van Emburgh Avenue. He also noted the Garden State Parkwayʼs Exit 168 exit ramp, which empties onto Washington Avenue, had been the scene of accidents and wondered if that had been considered. Azzolina noted that Van Emburgh Avenue is a county road (as is Washington Avenue) and that

the county traffic study was conducted 10 years ago. Calamari added that the municipality and school district were “two separate bodies” and he could not comment on school impacts. He said, “More students will need more teachers; thatʼs as far as Iʼm willing to comment at this time.” Resident Mary Gozell said a 10-year-old traffic study on Van

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Emburgh Avenue was not adequate. She said it was up to the town to contact the county and request an updated study. While Calamari said he would request a study, Shimanowitz said the Viviano site is zoned as a planned single-family/townhouse district and “offsite traffic is not relevant — really not an issue before the board at this time.”

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ReStore Tricky Tray, Food Drive Oct. 9

Youʼre invited to Habitat Bergen ReStoreʼs Tricky Tray and Food Drive on Saturday, Oct. 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 121 Carver Ave. Tickets are three for $5 to benefit affordable housing in Bergen County. Receive a free ticket when you bring a food donation to benefit the Center for Food Action, which works to prevent hunger and homelessness and improve the lives of individuals and families living in poverty.

The drawing is at 4 p.m. on Facebook. You need not be present to win.

Desks For Homes S e p a r a t e l y, every day 6–10 people come in to the Bergen ReStore looking for used desks for their children who are learning remotely. The Bergen ReStore has developed a program to build and provide 20 desks per month to families in need in Bergen County. For more information, visit https://bergenrestore.org.

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No overtime? DOL socks local businesses

WESTWOOD

Two borough car washes and an oil change shop routinely underpaid their employees, some of whom worked 70-hour weeks without overtime pay, the United States Department of Labor announced on Sept. 30. The offending employers didnʼt get away with it, and are on the hook for hundreds of thousands of dollars in back pay and damages. Investigators from the Department of Laborʼs Wage and Hour Division found that Nanard Enterprises Inc., Oilube R We Inc. owners Bernard and Nancy Torraco and general manager Anton Musto failed to pay the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Moreover, according to the complaint, they did not pay overtime to employees who worked more than 40 hours in a workweek — a brazen violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The complaint said the company also kept “deficient records” for at least one business and “routinely destroyed the evidence of their unlawful and pervasive pay practices at the other location.” Many employees saw their demands for earned overtime hours ignored at Westwood Car Wash, Old Hook Car Wash and 10-Minute Oil Lube — including for car washers, most of whom worked 58–70 hours per week, according to the complaint. The material, which the DOL sent out as a press statement, shows one car wash employee was paid $9 per hour for 70 hours of work. That check fluttered in at $630, with zero dollars in overtime. Other employees at these shops were paid below the federal minimum wage, according to the complaint. The U.S. District Court for

the District of New Jersey in Newark promptly entered a consent judgment requiring Westwood Car Wash, Old Hook Car Wash and 10-Minute Oil Lube to pay $162,500 in back wages, plus an equal amount in “liquidated damages” to 45 car-wash and oil change techs and cashiers. The employers agreed to an injunction against future violations, the department said. According to Regional Solicitor of Labor Jeffrey S. Rogoff in New York, the consent judgment “ensures these workers are paid fairly and receive all of their hard-earned wages.” He added, “Our litigation and the courtʼs action sends a clear signal to employers that shortchanging workers and violating the law to gain an unfair competitive advantage will not be tolerated.” — Staff report

police said Sept. 29. Officers responded to the mall the night of Sept. 14. Two Jersey City men, 30, said they were the victims.

The car was soon recovered in Jersey City. Brinson was arrested and taken to Bergen County Jail. The investigation is ongoing

Newark man arrested in mall carjacking

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Lawncare Operator Full & Part time positions available Flexible hours. Call (201) 664 1665. HELP WANTED MONTVALE PUBLIC SCHOOLS. Excellent Northern Bergen County School District seeks outstanding candidates for the following positions: Elem. Special Education Teacher – maternity leave till 11/21/21. Part-time (.5) Basic Skills Teacher. Parttime Clerical Assistant 8:30am-12:30pm. Lunchroom Aide. Substitute Teachers. Substitute Nurses. Please go to the “Employment Opportunities” tab on our website to apply: www.montvalek8.org. EOE/AA

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Curtis Brinson, 44, of Newark, is charged with conspiracy to commit armed carjacking and with being an accomplice, at Garden State Plaza, Paramus

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HELP WANTED Help Wanted - F/T Landscape Help. Min 1yr Crew Experience Construction & driver lic. a plus good pay based on EXP. Call/text (201) 206-7577.

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HELP WANTED Server and cashier for Ridge Diner in Park Ridge, NJ. Please call (201) 391-4242.

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Freelance or P/T.Are you interested in public affairs? Are you passionate about objective journalism? Newspaper group seeks local reporters to cover area governmental bodies. Experience and knowledge of AP Style preferred. Email ads@thepressgroup.net for more information.

ph 201.358.9500 • fax 201.664.2109 • pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

HELP WANTED Preschool Assistant Teacher — Upscale preschool in River Vale seeks an assistant teacher for children aged 3 months to 5 years. A professional, kind, and caring disposition is essential. Assistant preschool instructors must possess at least one year of experience in a licensed preschool environment. Teachers accrue, after 90 days, three weeks paid vacation and six paid time off days. Hourly salary is $12 – $14 per hour based on experience. After a year of employment teachers can participate in matching 401K savings program. Send resumes to preschooled.com or call 201-664-5606.

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The Press Group is now hiring! Full Time / Part Time Help

The Press Group is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our expanding sales team. Must have excellent verbal and communication skills. Please submit resume to: e - m a i l : j o b s @ t h e pr e s s g r o u p . n e t

HELP WANTED Help Wanted Responsible person needed for drop off and pick up of 2 children to school in River Vale. $100 per week. Call (201) 4036500. HELP WANTED Help Wanted - Labor position, good pay & good hours. Experience a plus - but willing to teach. Opportunity for growth in the company. Call (201) 664-3130. HELP WANTED Demarest Public Schools seeks: Special educator — FMLA replacement. Must be properly certified. Start date ASAP - January 2022; paraprofessionals (aides — 29 hrs. per week); food service/lunch aides; substitute nurses; substitute teachers. EOEAA. Apply on a p p l i t r a c k : http://demarestsd.schoolwires.net > employment.

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able Tuesday afternoons at 3:30. Grades K–5 can work with an older student on homework. Masks required. Register online. • In the Book Cooks Club— next date, Wednesday, Oct. 6 at noon—join Allyssa as she invites you into her kitchen to cook up a new dish or two! Cook along live or watch the video on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or the libraryʼs website to see how itʼs done before you give it a try. • Fall Story Time for ages 2–5 meets at the library on Thursdays at 10 a.m. The program will be outside while weather permits, then will move indoors. Register online. Runs through Nov. 4. • STEAM Thursday is all about making crafts and trying science experiments. Meets every Thursday in October at 3:30 p.m., at the library. Grades K–5. Masks required. The Oct. 7 session is all about Lego—there will be a free build, plus challenges. Register FROM PAGE 23

WESTWOOD 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org • The Global Read Aloud is an international read-aloud program where everyone reads the same book, “The Barren Grounds” by David Robertson. Westwood Library is hosting a group on Google Meet and Facebook where kids grades 4–6 will read the book together—about five chapters per week, over a six-week period. The group will meet Mondays from 4 to 5 p.m. starting Oct. 4. The discussion takes place over a secured, teacher-led discussion page on

jokes or improvising ridiculous poetry, Greg took nothing less seriously than he took himself. He laughed heartily at his own blunders, and took immense joy in the hysterics they generated in others. To know Greg was to know his smile; one that couldnʼt be concealed or kept at bay for very long. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Mary Perini; daughters, Stephanie and Abigail Perini; parents, James and Florence Perini; brother, James Perini Jr. (Rita); sister, Terri Briscoe (Joseph); and multiple aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by

his grandparents, William and Florence Schweizer, James and Anna Perini; and an uncle, Bill Schweizer. A Celebration of Life service was held at Valley Bible Chapel, Washington Township. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to his daughtersʼ education fund through the Gregory Perini Trust (Valley National Bank, 24 Broadway, Hillsdale, NJ 07642) or to help cover medical bills and funeral expenses through the Love for the Perini Family fundraiser (gofundme.com/f/love-for-the-perini-family).

online. • Friday Friends infant and toddler storytime meets Fridays at 10 a.m. at the library. Rhymes, songs, and a short story perfect for toddlers. The program will be outside while weather permits, then will move indoors. Register online. Runs through Nov. 5.

Obituaries: referred to as “my girls,” and for the Lord he loved and faithfully served. At church, Greg not only preached the Word of God to the adults, but loved leading the youth group and Sunday School programs. The children immediately took to him, an impossible mountain of a man who, in spite of his size, managed to exude that perfect blend of gentleness and silliness to which children of all ages are naturally drawn. And while powerlifting associate vice presidents arenʼt broadly known for playing goofy practical

FROM PAGE 28

Meet Thursday, Oct. 7 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. In this monthly program, kids will learn about different ciphers throughout history and how to crack them. An activity packet will be provided. Register online.

• Little ones are invited to an engaging musical program, Musical Munchkins, outside the library on Friday, Oct. 8 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Best for kids under 5. Register online.

she spoke at town events and was a presence in the gallery at town council meetings, most recently speaking on her efforts to acquire 450 Pascack Road for the township, a project still under way. Her mayoral tenure was tarnished by complaints from town workers who found her abrasive, including one who presented an inadvertent voicemail recording of Sobkowicz deriding the employee and seemingly threatening her pay. As well, she faced critiques of her spending and hiring priorities. Perhaps most damaging was an April 2017 complaint from Police Benevolent Association Local 206 over deteriorating conditions at police headquarters. Officials also said equipment and facilities at the DPW and the firehouse were deteriorating. At the time of the PBA complaint, Sobkowicz said the township

had opted to invest funds on items that would help officers better perform their duties, including laptops and digital cameras installed in patrol cars and new computers and cameras at headquarters. A day after the PBA filed its complaint, Sobkowicz withdrew her petition to run for re-election. At the Nov. 9, 2019 dedication of the Township Veterans Memorial at the public library, a project of Eagle Scout James Stickel that she championed before and after she left office, Sobkowicz suggested the site was perfect for a town commons. She expressed joy for “all the scouts — all the young people — who are becoming aware, becoming educated. I think itʼs just marvelous and a grand tribute.” She added, “I canʼt wait until the gazebo goes up in the spring so we can all sit here and enjoy each other and help each other.” — John Snyder

Sobkowicz: FROM PAGE 5

PHHS 50th reunion seeks 1970, ’71 alumni

MONTVALE

The Pascack Hills High School classes of 1970 and 1971 have planned a joint 50th reunion for Saturday, Nov. 13 at the Park Ridge Marriott. The big event begins with a cocktail hour, leading into dinner, music, and more fun! Covid protocols and precautions will be in place in order to ensure all attendeesʼ safety. Other weekend plans include gatherings on Friday evening and Sunday morning — and possibly a tour of PHHS. Organizers told Pascack Press, “Many of our classmates have not yet been located and we are eager to find them.” In order to secure a spot at the weekend events, participants must purchase a ticket by Oct. 8. For more information contact Peter Tandy (petertandy@comcast.net) or Nancy Everett Monts (NDMonts@aol.com)

for the class of ʻ71. The class of ʻ70 should contact Nancy Gazzola Girald (GiraldNancy@gmail.com) or Chris Nicoll (Chris@ChrisNicoll.ca). You also can connect with classmates at Facebook pages Pascack Hills High School Class of 1971 and Pascack Hills High School Class of 1970 50th Reunion.

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

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OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Library Calendar

Facebook. Register online. • In Global E-Pals, kids grades 3–5 connect with students from around the world to learn about their culture, practice writing, and improve social skills through letter writing. Meets monthly on Google Meet. Next date: Tuesday, Oct. 5 from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Register online. • Peek-A-Book Story Time takes place outside the library Wednesday, Oct. 6 from 10:30–11 a.m. Babies and toddlers will enjoy listening to stories, dancing, singing, and acting out finger plays. Outdoors, weather permitting. Register online. • In a special Hispanic Heritage Month program on Wednesday, Oct. 6 from 4 to 4:45 p.m., children grades K–2 can gather on Google Meet to learn about one of the oldest instruments—the Peruvian panpipe—and the people of the Andean tribe who created it. Kids will make a panpipe flute out of straws. There will be a craft kit to pick up. Register online. • Crack the Code: Ancient Ciphers (grades 4–6) is on Google

OCTOBER 4, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS