Pascack Press 12.13.21 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 39

Holiday Shopping Guide

DECEMBER 13, 2021

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS ’21 Westwood brings the valley back to town

See page 13

MONTVALE

SCHOOLS BOND GETS ITS TEST DEC. 14

Polls open this Tuesday on $29.4M referendum; state aid depends on it

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Local voters will decide the fate of a $29.4 million bond referendum to enhance school facilities, upgrade heating and air conditioning, and renovate and add restrooms — all to help maintain small class sizes — on Tuesday, Dec. 14 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. A pot of $7.2 million in state aid for the project is possible only with a successful referendum, district officials and Mayor Michael Ghassali said in separate appeals. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by Dec. 14, or hand-delivered to the county offices that day during business hours. Mail-in ballots cannot be submitted at the in-person polls. In addition to the mail-in option, Montvale will have two inperson polling places open from 6

See SCHOOLS on page 264

An estimated 8,000 revelers from all over the Pascack Valley flocked to Westwood on Dec. 4 for a day of fun and to honor the borough’s first responders and essential workers. In addition to the trademark parade — which showed off 30 groups that give the borough its strength and character — the event featured live music, demonstrations, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus and a tree lighting ceremony. The event was suspended in 2020 over the pandemic.

BY MICHAEL FITZSIMMONS FOR PASCACK PRESS ESTWOODʼS

HOME for the Holidays celebration made a triumphant return Saturday, Dec. 4 — a spectacular and mild evening with a huge turnout. More than 30 groups marched and rode down Westwood PHOTO BY RICHARD FRANT

Avenue as thousands of people lined the street to watch the parade to Veteransʼ Memorial Park. Following the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus assisted in the lighting of the tree. [Mayor Ray Arroyo estimates 8,000 attended from up and down the Pascack Valley; see his remarks on Page 2.]

Continued on page 15

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

VACANT

HOUSES AND THE LAW

Absent owners said to keep paying, lapsing on bills BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

While the Pascack Road–Washington Avenue intersection is slated for major improvements in spring, several unoccupied homes — with broken windows, peeling paint, and dilapidated exteriors — mar the intersectionʼs northwest corner and have for almost a decade. During a Nov. 8 council meeting, borough administrator Robert Tovo and councilman Michael DeSena disagreed about the condition of the long-empty homes, with DeSena questioning why the homes have not been cited for violations under the townshipʼs property maintenance codes — including its abandoned or so-called “zombie house” ordinance. The houses have prominent warning placards at the entrances, in red and white, to advise emergency workers itʼs unsafe to enter. Tovo noted that the township lacks a code enforcement official, despite advertising twice for the position. He said property code violations are handled by himself and officials from the public works and zoning office. However, the deteriorating homes near the Washington–Pascack nexus remained a sore point with DeSena. “Thereʼs obvious grass growing out of the roofs,” DeSena told Tovo, calling them “zombie hous-

See VACANT on page 474

FOOTBALL MOMMAS

B ck in time...

Pascack Valley moms duked it out in two Black Friday charity games: the Hillsdale Lady Hawks and Emerson Mamaliers hosted challengers from Oradell and River Edge. SEE PAGE 33

Let’s ditch these high-tech distractions and return to the commerce of a simpler time: Kristin Beuscher takes us ‘shopping’ at Gottlieb’s Department Store in December 1925. SEE PAGE 4

PASCACK PRESS

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Arroyo on Home for the Holidays To the editor: last D yearʼs Covid-induced cancellation of Westwoodʼs annual ISAPPOINTMENT AFTER

Home for the Holidays Parade was transformed into pure joy this year. The weather was perfect and the people were happy, waving, and laughing. With so many smiling faces filled downtown it looked the giant stage set

for a toothpaste commercial! The Covid-19 Grinch may not be done with us quite yet, but it was quite evident that we have had… just about enough… of it. “Omicron” should be the name of a “Transformers” robot our kids dream of finding under the tree on Christmas morning, not a viral variant we fear finding in their bloodstream. The Home for the Holidays Committee: Mike Fitzsimmons, Rusty Miller, Jim Gines, Lauren Letizia and RoseAnn Ciarlante did a masterful job in setting the stage. And Charlie Johnston (Johnston Brothers Electric) did

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Correction

Our Dec. 6 print story “Bids sought on school upgrades” in River Vale, page 1, contained two errors: Holdrum Middle School is getting classroom renovations, not new classrooms. Also, we listed Fieldstone school, which is part of an unrelated but concurrent schools effort in Montvale. We regret the errors.

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another great job with the tree lights and lighting up the downtown. Many commentators on social media say this yearʼs parade was the best and biggest ever! Estimated attendance was approximately 8,000 parade observers and participants. After last yearʼs parade hiatus, Westwood truly “Built (it) Back Better” (to borrow a phrase). But underpinning Saturdayʼs joyful extravaganza were both the seen and unseen efforts of WPD and WDPW. Managing that many people, shoehorned in and around the parade route is no easy task. Coordinating the movement of traffic into and

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recent Emerson menorah and Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Marked on the first eve of Hannukah, the ceremony certainly helped put Emerson residents in the holiday spirit. It was a special evening, filled with fun, laughter and song! Events like this, which bring all segments of our community together, have always been my favorite. As 2021 draws to a close, I was happy to have this opportunity to spend time together as a community. I look forward to many more fun events together in 2022! Jill McGuire Emerson CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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committee set out to celebrate with this return yearʼs theme. Weʼre fortunate to call Westwood home, and doubly blessed itʼs our home for the holidays. And we are extremely grateful for the borough employees and volunteers who make it so. Mayor Ray Arroyo Westwood

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through the area, with the street closures necessary to maintain public safety, requires adept planning and engaged execution. The recent events in Waukesha, Wisconsin added an additional layer of concern and pressure — to which our public safety departments responded magnificently. A big thank you to Chief Michael Pontillo and the command staff of WPD for bringing in additional human assets and eyes in the sky. Lt. Rich Antonacci, the departmentʼs traffic expert, was particularly instrumental in developing and quarterbacking the WPDʼs game-day plan. And, as always, DPW Superintendent Rick Woods and his staff did a great job deploying barriers and security equipment on loan from neighboring towns to keep us all safe. Public safety is the foundation upon which our quality of life in Westwood rests. Every good thing that we can do for each other, the carefree delight that spilled through the downtown, beaming from the childrenʼs faces and coalescing in Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday night, is premised upon our safety and security. Many of those who were essential in bringing this happy event back to the streets of Westwood: WVFD, WVAC, WPD and WDPW staffers were the very same frontline heroes the parade

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289 Pascack Rd., Washington Twp. NJ 07676 (201) 358-9660

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

At a meeting devoid of public comment, the Planning Board voted, 7-1, on Dec. 1 to approve Franklin Court Management LLCʼs 44-unit multifamily inclusionary rental complex and two single-family homes off of Van Emburgh Avenue, while denying any variances for the two singlefamily homes. The project is a first in the township. Member Said Toro opposed the motion to approve a fully conforming application for 44 units and two single-family homes on Fillmore Drive. Approving were Bill Carroll, Leonard Sabino, George Toole, Vincent Vinagre, Vladimir Wojno-Oranski, Councilman Thomas Sears, and Chair Brian Murphy. Board attorney Louis Lamatina, immediate past mayor of Emerson, said he would provide an approval resolution to applicant attorney Donna Jennings within weeks to review, prior to a board vote memorializing the decision. The complex includes seven affordable units and 37 marketrate rental apartments, and was part of the townshipʼs affordable housing settlement. The boardʼs approval was the second major multifamily development greenlit in 2021, following its Sept. 22 approval of the Viviano familyʼs “American Dream” project, a 66-unit town-

home and single-family development at 463 Van Emburgh Ave., after nearly two decades of disputes and delays. “The applicant is pleased that the Planning Board approved the fully conforming site plan to construct the 44-unit inclusionary project but is disappointed that it denied the lot frontage variances requested with the subdivision application for the two single family homes,” applicant attorney Donna Jennings, Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, Woodbridge, told Pascack Press on Dec. 2. Jennings noted the applicant, Franklin Court Management LLC, had not yet decided whether it would appeal the boardʼs variance denials on both single-family homes. She said construction work was likely to begin on the rental apartments in spring 2022. The approximately hour-long session Dec, 1 was unusual in what it had and did not have: The hearing mostly dealt with whether to okay variances for the developerʼs two single-family homes. Moreover, not a single member of the public raised an online hand when given an opportunity to comment on the first-ever 44unit inclusionary multifamily complex in the township. Within minutes of starting the hearing, the board opened for public comment and when no one raised an online hand, it closed to public comment. That was the only public comment period offered. Near mid-meeting after the Planning Board secretary asked whether to open for public com-

ment on single-family variance options, Murphy said “The public session was closed at the last meeting” and noted the Dec. 1 meeting was for board deliberations Lamatina said he provided his legal opinions on Jenningsʼ 27-page memo to board members, but declined to state them publicly, citing attorney-client privilege. Jennings was asked by Murphy to summarize the case issues and law in writing for board members at a prior hearing. Most of the final hearing focused on whether planners would grant applicant variances to reduce required frontage or setbacks on the two single-family, market-rate homes included as part of the settlement agreement. Hardly any discussion centered on the 44-unit rental complex, a focus of every previous hearing by planners and the public, most likely due to legal opinions from Lamatina on the boardʼs limited role given an approved affordable housing agreement and ordinance in place. Members tied, 4-4, in the first two votes on plans to grant setback or frontage variances and following advice from Lamatina, members revisited and passed, 71, a third option that leaves the street turning bulb intact and grants no variances for reduced front-yard setback, or frontage. The variances requested had sought to reduce setback from 50 feet to 25 feet, mostly to permit larger backyards for both homes. Township Planner Stan Slachetka of T&M Associates said

from “a planning perspective” that the applicantʼs initial proposal for a reduced 25-foot setback variance was the best option. However, a subsequent board vote rejected that option. After Lamatina advised the board to reconsider its options, Sabino said it was “pretty clear what we can and cannot do based on the settlement with the town agreed upon several years ago”

and enacted in Ordinance 18-12, passed by council in October 2018. At one point, Murphy noted, “Just, as a caveat, you canʼt rely upon what the residents want or donʼt want. Itʼs certainly something that they can [protect]; it certainly gives you an idea of the character of the neighborhood,” he said, when discussing the

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DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FRANKLIN COURT DEVELOPMENT APPROVED; WORK STARTS IN SPRING

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Museum chronicles local history The Pascack Historical Society invites members of the public to stop by its museum any Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free. Please wear your mask. The museum is located 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 early-19th century and Victorian life. The museum also has a collection of Lenape stone tools that predate European settlement. Adults are encouraged to bring their children for a unique learning experience.

B ck in time...

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

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The museumʼs latest exhibit looks at the World War II experience overseas and on the homefront. Uniforms, medals, documents, military gear, newspapers, ration books, flags, and posters are among the hundreds of objects curated to paint a picture of this important event in American history. This new exhibit is in addition to the museumʼs regular offerings and will remain a permanent fixture at PHS. For more information, visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org and follow the museum on Facebook.

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CHRISTMAS GIFTS FROM GOTTLIEB’S

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF PASCACK PRESS

S THE KIDS fill out their Christmas lists and ask Santa Claus to bring them a new laptop, iPad, and a PlayStation 5, we go back to a quieter—and less technological—time in the Pascack Valley. This advertisement from Gottliebʼs Department Store ran in December 1925 editions of the weekly Park Ridge Local. It was a time before television and an era of silent movies. Children of the 1920s had grown up with telephones and automobiles, but these were new for their parentsʼ generation. There were no shopping malls, no highways. Kids had fewer toys, and these were made of metal or wood instead of plastic. Gottliebʼs Department Store was at the corner of Park and Hawthorne avenues in Park Ridge, now the Cyclesport bike shop. The building had housed a couple of different dry goods and grocery stores since it was built in the late 19th century. Russia-born William Gottlieb opened his business there in the 1920s.

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Gottlieb had come to America in 1908 with his wife, Dora. They went on to have three daughters and the family lived on Pascack Road near Ridge Avenue in Park Ridge. Mr. Gottlieb also was founder and first president of the Park Ridge Hebrew Community Center, which became Temple Beth Sholom. In addition to the department store, he ran a successful real estate business with an office in Westwood. In 1925 the Park Ridge Parent Teacher Association partnered with Mr. Gottlieb at Christmastime to help children who could not

afford winter clothes. School teachers of all grades were told to make note of any child in need of a coat, sweater, shoes, hat, rubber boots, mittens, dress, or underclothes. Discreetly, the teacher was to tell the student that Santa Claus had left something for them at the department store. When the student came in, Mr. Gottlieb would outfit the child in the necessary garments, with the Park Ridge PTA paying the bill afterwards. Gottliebʼs was in business in the 1920s and 1930s. In the 1940s the building became Goodmanʼs Department Store.

Hawthorne Avenue in the 1920s, with Gottlieb’s Department Store at left.

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Publisher Editor Assistant Editor Art Director Director of Advertising

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

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

District seeks views on school climate PASCACK VALLEY HS DISTRICT

Students at Pascack Hills and Pascack Valley high schools, along with staff and parents in the district, will be given school climate surveys in early 2022, part of a continuing effort to “commit more broadly to equity and inclusivity as a district goal,” district officials say. Survey findings are likely by spring 2022, officials said recently. Parents can access all three climate surveys at pascack.org/district/school_climate_survey. Earlier this fall, some parents had questioned the regional board about whether inappropriate, or unwanted surveys, had been given to students at its two high schools without parentsʼ approval. This followed a state-mandated updating of the districtʼs school survey policy required by a new state law that outlined nine areas of “protected information surveys” also required parental notice and approval before questions falling under specific categories could be asked of students. (See “School board hears from parents on revised survey policy,” Pascack Press, Sept. 24, 2021.) Pascack Hills High School serves students from Montvale and Woodcliff Lake and Pascack

Valley High School serves students from Hillsdale and River Vale. After the school climate survey was discussed at the regional boardʼs Nov. 29 meeting by Dr. Mark Russo, district supervisor of diversity, equity and inclusion, the board posted all three proposed surveys on the district website. Some parents have expressed concerns about questions on inschool surveys administered to students on sensitive topics. Moreover, Superintendent Daniel Fishbein said the prior school climate surveys did not contain “protected information survey” questions. Asked what action has resulted from previous climate surveys, district spokesperson Paul Zeller told us such surveys “have helped us to commit more broadly to equity and inclusivity as a district goal, which has led to the creation of a department of diversity, equity, and inclusivity.” He said the district equity work includes: • Leadership and goal setting, including the development of a district equity vision statement and the creation of a student equity leadership team; • Data collection and analysis, including the ongoing implementation of school climate surveys and followup writing prompts; and • Faculty education, including

Vicolo

optional training through the New Jersey Consortia for Excellence through Equity, and collaborative action, including partnering with different student groups and the community equity partnership.” The website notes that the New Jersey School Climate Improvement Survey addresses the following topic areas and who takes each survey. (“All stakeholders” refers to students, staff, and parents/caregivers.) • Student sense of belonging (students only); • Leadership support (staff only); • Organizational resources and supports (staff only); • Collegial support (staff only); • Family support and engagement (staff and parents/caregivers); • Academic culture and classroom practices (all stakeholders); • Supportive staff/student relationships (all stakeholders); • Supports for student social and emotional learning (all stakeholders); • Behavioral expectations (all stakeholders); • Negative student interpersonal behaviors (all stakeholders); • Prosocial student interpersonal behaviors (all stakeholders); • Student voice and involvement (all stakeholders); and • Sense of physical safety (all stakeholders).

We reviewed the four-page, 17 question student survey posted online, which asks students to “click the button that best matches how you feel most of the time.” Some selected questions are previewed below. Students are asked to indicate if they strongly disagree, disagree, agree or strongly agree that “Adults in my school respect students: 1) of all races and ethnicities and nationalities; 2) of all sexual orientations; 3) of all gender identities; 4) of all ability levels; 5) from all religions or cultures; and 6) whose families have more money or less money.” For another question, students are asked to “press a button that best matches how you feel most of the time” whether an issue is not a problem, a small problem, a medium problem, or a big problem. For most questions, students are advised to skip the question if they donʼt know how to answer it. “Think about how much of a problem these things are at your school. Students at this school pick on each other because of: 1) their race, ethnicity or nationality;

2) their religion or culture; 3) their gender or gender expression; 4) their sexual orientation; 5) their academic or learning ability; 6) their physical appearance; 7) how they move or walk; 8) how they speak; or 9) how much money their family has. In another question, students are asked “How do you describe yourself? Check all that apply.” The choices presented are: 1) Boy/Male; 2) Girl/Female; 3) Transgender; 4) Non-binary; and 5) I use a different word(s). We asked how prior surveys have helped to improve each schoolʼs climate and culture. Zeller said prior school climate surveys have given the district information about how students perceive different aspects of school culture. “Having this information has helped us to know where our strengths are, as well as some areas for continuing growth. Key findings from previous surveys have been shared with administration, faculty, students, and parents, and these findings are taken into account in district decisionmaking,” he said.

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Borough projects, Planning Board activity update

Things certainly are hopping in the borough. Hereʼs Mayor Michael Ghassaliʼs Dec. 6 update on borough/capital projects, Planning Board applications, and Planning Board inspection projects.

Borough/Capital Projects • FEMA/Hurricane Ida – We will be meeting with representatives of USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in January 2022 due to their scheduling. USDA is coordinating funding for natural disaster recovery efforts aimed at relieving imminent hazards to life and property caused by Hurricane Ida through the NRCS Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program. Among the most crucial efforts identified early on was the removal of fallen trees within the Pascack Brook, which was completed by the borough (Downes Tree Service). • Montvale 2021 Road Program – In addition to the roads that have been milled and paved by PSEG, the following roads are scheduled to be milled and paved under the Borough 2021 Road Improvement Program: • Erie Ave (from Main Street to Ladik Place); • Main Street (from Jefferson Place to the New York bor-

der); • Marion Road (from Grand Avenue to Hemlock Street); • Pennsylvania Avenue (from Myrtle GHASSALI Street to Terminus); • Wayne Street (from Kinderkamack Road to Degroff Place); and • Roberts Road, as an alternate. Note: Bids were scheduled to be received on Dec. 29 with award in January 2022. Project startup is scheduled for March/April, if the weather obliges. • Bergen County/Magnolia Avenue Bridge Replacement – Several of the easements prepared by the County are still awaiting signatures from residents. However, installation of new utility poles and preliminary survey work has begun near the bridge. Sanzari Construction has indicated that they project closure of Magnolia Avenue to thru traffic on or about March 1. There is no date for the installation of the traffic light at the intersection of Woodland and Grand, which needs to be active prior to the

road closure. • Bergen County 2018/2019 Road Program (Kinderkamack Road) – We are 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 – CED has submitted additional responses to Bergen County regarding their comments to our revisions of the Boroughʼs Stormwater Management Plan. This is the continuation of the reporting requirements to the NJDEP for the Boroughʼs Tier ʻAʼ Municipal Stormwater Permit, reviewing and implementing the new amendments to the Tier ʻAʼ Municipal Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) and New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) permit. • Montvale FY2022 NJDOT Road Program – This program proposes milling and paving of Summit Avenue, from Spring Valley Road east to the New York border. • Montvale FY2021 NJDOT Road Program – The NJDOT notified the Borough on Nov. 16, 2020 that they have been awarded $210,000 for road improvements

to Craig Road. • Montvale FY2020 NJDOT Road Program – Work was completed on Nov. 12, 2020 with the milling and paving of Paragon & Philips. CED is continuing with the required steps to close-out this project and filing the necessary paperwork for reimbursement from the NJDOT. • Montvale 2020 Bergen County Open Space Grant – La Trenta Parking Lot & ADA Improvement Project – On Feb. 16, the county awarded the borough $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 work on the new courts, and the initial/final payment recommendation to the borough was dated Nov. 10 in the amount of $90,579.35. Following payment, We will submit the required paperwork to the County for reimbursement. Note that the Borough was awarded $45,000 under the 2019 Grant Program. • Fieldstone Fields Restroom Facility – CED submit-

ted paperwork on May 24 to the NJ Department of Community Affairs for the installation of a three-unit (ADA, menʼs and ladiesʼ room) restroom trailer that would be available to the public three seasons of the year. The proposed location is where the existing portable toilet unit is located.

Planning Board Applications • Safari Energy/Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Solar Carports – This application was deemed incomplete on Oct. 26, and we requested additional information and revised plans from the applicant. The applicant has requested approval to install six carport structures containing 3,312 solar panels above 342-parking spaces north of the MSK building. Pieroʼs/Montvale • De Development Phase II – This application was approved by theboard on June 15 and final resolution compliance and bonding estimates have been prepared. • Montvale Family Apartments – The resolution granting final site plan approval was tabled by the board at their Nov. 16 meeting, as required revisions to the plans and submittals requested by the board were not SEE MONTVALE PAGE 24

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Broadway applicant proposes more units

An application to convert a mixed-use residential and retail building at 216 Broadway with three units and retail space into a multifamily, six-unit residential structure will be heard Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. before the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The site is occupied by Faber Bros. carpet store, and three units above the first-floor retail space. “The applicant seeks approval to convert the present mixed use building containing three residential units and a retail

store on the first floor to a completely multi-family structure with a total of six residential units and will undertake other site improvements,” states the application from 216 Broadway LLC. Before its first hearing, a member of SHINE, a borough group opposed to overdevelopment, has opposed the project. Veronica Appelle told Pascack Press when the application recently appeared that the developer is seeking “to add more apartments, for a total of six, on 0.326 of an

acre.” Appelle said, “If the Zoning Board allows all the variances for this, it will set a precedent for density in Woodcliff Lake at 16-plus units per acre. At present, itʼs 5 units per acre, except for developments that are exclusively affordable housing.” The Broadway Corridor land use has long been debated and continues as a source of controversy over what types of architectural styles and zoning should be permitted there to enhance the

borough. Some advocates and residents suggest the proposal, although much smaller, follows on a similar effort to convert a former office building that was zoned exclusively for office use into a 53-unit residential apartment complex at nearby 188 Broadway. However, the 216 Broadway LLC application seeks a principal use variance to change its current use from mixed use zoning to multifamily zoning, noting its underlying zone is currently single-family zoning only. It also seeks variances for maximum building coverage, where a maximum allowed is 15%

but 16.1% is existing with no change proposed; a variance for maximum total coverage where 40% is allowed but 55.8% exists and 60,5% is proposed; a variance for maximum height where 30 feet is allowed, 33.5 is existing, and 40.1 feet is proposed. Moreover, a variance is requested for minimum front yard setback where 35 feet is required, and 18.5 feet is existing and no change is proposed; and a setback variance on Highview Avenue where 31.8 is existing and no change is proposed. The application was postponed from a prior hearing. — Michael Olohan

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Free services for at-risk kids 3 to 21

The Woodcliff Lake Public Schools Special Education Department offers services to children 3–21 experiencing difficulties in their development. Communication delays, significant lags in cognitive and social/emotional development, delayed motor development, and difficulty learning are some of the signals that may portend learning disabilities. There is no charge for this

program. Evaluation of children, who seem at risk, is available at no cost to residents of Woodcliff Lake. Please contact the Child Study Team in your area. For more information, call Jessica Ballester, supervisor of Special Education, at (201) 930-5600, ext.113. “Our belief in early intervention is the foundation of our philosophy and programs,” Ballester tells Pascack Press.

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HABITAT BERGEN BREAKS GROUND FOR HOME ON CHESTNUT STREET BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County kicked off its latest Pascack Valley home build with a livestreamed celebration in the borough: the groundbreaking ceremony, Wednesday, Dec. 8 at noon at 2 Chestnut St. The nonprofit has partnered with the borough to construct a single-family home that will be purchased by a Habitat partnership family, the organization told Pascack Press in its invitation. Executive Director Teri Capparelli said, “During two and a half decades of building in Bergen County, Bergen Habitat has relied on the generosity of individual and corporate donors to fund the building or rehabilitation of more than 114 homes in 14 towns across the county.” She said, “It is through the commitment to service demonstrated by our individual and team volunteers, and the volunteer hours of our families, that we help our homeowners achieve the dream of home ownership. Homeownership should be a necessity and not a luxury.” Mayor John Ruocco told Pascack Press that the borough was pleased that officials “were finally able to arrive at this point, after several discussions and meetings

Above: WIth Mayor John Ruocco front and center, Borough and Habitat of Humanity Bergen County officials, county officials, volunteers, and others break ground at a new build, on Chestnut Street, on Wednesday. Dec. 8. Top right and below: plans for the house that will rise here. 2 Chestnut St. was earmarked to Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County in a 2018 ordinance as part of an affordable housing settlement. | Zoltán Horváth photos. own church, who may become with the Habitat for Humanity buy a home. “I especially admire the involved in the planning and conofficials, with the residents, and ʻsweat equityʼ that the occupants struction.” with various council members.” The mayor said, “The new He said, “The building of an will be putting into the construcaffordable home at this location tion. I thank all of our borough residents of Hillsdale who will was an important requirement of professionals who had a hand in ultimately reside in this location the affordable housing plan that making this happen, especially are a welcome addition to the the mayor and council adopted in borough attorney Mark Madaio Hillsdale community. I look for2017 and which the courts and borough engineer Chris ward to welcoming them personally.” Statile,” Ruocco said. approved.” Habitat Bergen thanked all He added, “I also appreciate Habitat, he said, has been a leader in providing affordable the support that has come from who came out in support, includhousing to residents who might PSE&G, Suez Water, and our resi- ing Ruocco; Borough Administranot otherwise be able to afford to dents, including some from my tor Chris Tieitjen; county commissioners Tracy Silna Zur, Tom Sullivan, and Rob Esposito; Gary Kohles of the Bergen County Division of Community Development; Habitat Bergen Board President Roxanne Vivanco; Habitat Bergen Vice President Anita DaSilva; Director of Construction Gary Kohl; construction supervisor Tom LoRusso; Executive Director Teri Capparell; Director of Operations Jane Norville Cook; volunteer coordinator Gloria Bello; social media specialist Jennifer Melinda Sullivan; volunteers; the Greyheads; and the Hillsdale Police Department. Bergen Habitat most recently worked on homes for seniors and veterans in Westwood and the Township of Washington, and so far has built dozens of homes for hard-working families throughout Bergen County. In February 2020 we reported that the borough had offered the Chestnut Street green to Habitat

Bergen. The property, 50 feet by 100 feet at a dead end paper street and undersized for new development according to borough code, was one of approximately a dozen considered for affordable housing. To neighbors the land was seen as a cherished vestige of pristine woodland in the 20square-block tract in Hillsdale and neighboring Township of Washington known as the tree section. Surface streets here are named for such species as Beech, Cherry, Chestnut, Fern, Hickory, Oak, and Walnut. Habitat Bergenʼs then-executive director told Pascack Press that Feb. 21 that itʼs a great spot for an attractive 1,500-squarefoot 3-bedroom home with attached garage for a family of moderate means. “We havenʼt decided to earmark that for seniors, veterans, or anyone yet. We have a bit of work to do,” she said. The borough extended its deadline for the offer to March 15, 2020, to give time for all involved to come to terms. “The Borough is obligated to fulfill the terms of an agreement it made with the Fair Share Housing Corporation in 2017, accepted and approved subsequently by the Superior Court of New Jersey,” Ruocco said at the time. “One of those terms is that the Borough will donate a property to Habitat for Humanity for the construction of an affordable CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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Public school district officials likely will discuss concerns and final due diligence reports on a nearby site to construct a new George G. White Middle School on an open lot on Magnolia Avenue. Trustees will meet Monday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m. at the Meadowbrook School, 50 Piermont Ave., with updates possible on efforts to investigate whether building a new middle School across from its present site at 120 Magnolia Ave. should move forward.

All meetings are in-person at this point and not broadcast or online, board president Shane Svorec told Pascack Press. An agenda for Dec. 13 was not available at press time but due to be posted online Dec. 10, said the boardʼs business administrator. A “possible timelines” chart prepared by the Ad Hoc Committee to study George G. Whiteʼs options noted a mid-March 2022 deadline to select a construction option and prepare a state application for bond funding, with a bond referendum in March 2023. Officials, including Superintendent Robert Lombardy, recently told Pascack Press that following

its due diligence to determine whether a site directly across the street from the current middle school is appropriate for a new school, the board faces a short timeline, by March 2022, to plan, estimate and propose a possible school bond referendum to replace the aging school. While district officials have declined to make potential cost estimates public due to uncertainty about possible site and supplychain concerns, and much unsettled about what a new middle school may include, councilman Anthony DeRosa provided a brief council update where he estimated a cost range for a new middle school.

Train to volunteer teaching ESL in ’22

PASCACK VALLEY

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

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

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

Other estimates were included in an October presentation from the boardʼs ad hoc committee, though the cost numbers only give a rough idea of possible costs by showing what level of tax impact may be for various project cost ranges. Estimates showed what it would cost taxpayers for a project that ranged from $20 million to $60 million, and accounting for expiring debt payments, the costs ranged widely, between a monthly $31 up to a monthly $94 tax impact on an average $472,530 home over a 20year bond. However, no official estimates on bond costs have yet been released by district officials. In mid-November, Lombardy told us architectural plans may still change and costs were not yet clear on the likely middle school project.

“Itʼs tough to say. I would like to be able to share with the community with exactitude what that number is to not allow for any misinformation to go out.” He said once due diligence information is in hand, and following consultation with the architect, he anticipated a final project estimate by early 2022. George G. White Middle School, built in 1922, houses grades 5–8, and had approximately 510 students in 2020, said the Districtʼs 2020-2025 Strategic Plan. A survey of 28 ad hoc committee members showed 76.5% favored constructing a new building across the street. The committee presented an 80-page summary of options at the Oct. 11 BOE meeting.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL TIMELINE, COSTS EXPECTED AT DEC. 13 SESSION

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

PARK RIDGE SCHOOL BOARD TO WEIGH WELCOMING EMERSON IN FOR FOOTBALL BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

PARK RIDGE

The Park Ridge Board of Education has called a special meeting for Monday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. at the High School Little Theater to discuss a request from Emerson to include football in the districtʼs co-op athletic agreement. The decision is time-senstitive and the public is invited to weigh in. According to Park Ridge district superintendent Robert M. Gamper, due to low enrollment Emerson has been playing in the NJIC Union League, which is designed for smaller programs, for the past two seasons. He said both districts agreed to wait until the end of the season to discuss this matter “so as not to create a distraction for players and coaches.”

Gamper told the school community in a letter on Dec. 3 that a merger in football would be similar to the programs Park Ridge already shares with Emerson in golf, cross-country, bowling, wrestling and lacrosse. He said, “First and foremost, I want to congratulate our high school football players, marching band members and cheerleaders for an exciting season. The school spirit and enthusiasm they brought to Owl Nation served as a reminder of just how lucky we are to be part of the Park Ridge school community. Our victory over Hasbrouck Heights to capture the North 1 Group 1 State Sectional Championship will forever live in our hearts and minds.” Of Emersonʼs ask, he said, “Most of you will remember that we last entertained this idea in 2014. At that time, both schools were able to field a competitive team and the discussion was more

for exploration purposes. However, the request from Emerson this year coincides with low football program enrollment, which will make it difficult for them to safely compete at the varsity level in the fall.” Gamper said, “Technically, Emerson can field a team, but the experience would be challenging at best and unsafe at worst.” He said he understands that “this request might not be a surprise to our younger football families, since Park Ridge and Emerson have been playing together on the Junior Level (grades 1–8) for the past several seasons.” The Park Ridge BOE Education Committee is to meet with stakeholders from Owl football, cheerleading and marching band programs. Gamper said, “An invitation to attend this meeting has already been sent to PRHS coaches/directors, PRHS booster association

PASCACK VALLEY

3/4 Giants smash their way to the top

Congratulations to the Giants, who just won the Super Bowl and are grade 3/4 Pascack Flag Football champions. The Giants is a team of boys from Westwood, River Vale, and Woodcliff Lake who on Nov. 29 beat the Patriots in the Flag Super Bowl. The Giants were coached by John Mircovirch, Dan Riccio, and Brian Murphy. They entered the scene as the #5 seed and played dominating football, scoring 60 points and giving up 13 total points over three playoff games. Pascack Flag Football, a nonprofit local chapter of NFL Flag Football, is open to kids in grades 3–8 from Westwood, Hillsdale, River Vale, Woodcliff Lake, Park Ridge and Montvale. It offers a fun, fast-paced

representatives and PRAA junior commissioners.” At the Dec. 13 special meeting, the board will discuss this request and give the public a chance to ask questions or provide

Letters: FROM PAGE 2

Ghassali encourages boosters To the editor: this vaccination [Monday, IDec.level6] andinformation wanted to share it with JUST RECEIVED

you.

Specific to Montvale as of Friday last week: • Fully vaccinated residents (Unknown if booster is included) 81%. • With at least one dose vac-

comment. He added that the request is time sensitive due to the NJSIAA deadline of Jan. 15 for applications of new 2022 fall season coop programs.

cine 89%. • First course initiated 8%. • New Jersey total fully vaccinated 68%. • New Jersey total with at least one dose 80%. Vaccines are available locally at Wegmans and CVS. I am happy to see the level of vaccination in our town. I am fully vaccinated and took the booster shot two weeks ago, and I encourage you to do the same. Please continue to use safe practices and if you are in need of hand sanitizers, gloves and masks, come to borough hall and we will give you what you need to keep you safe. Ask for Nevene or anyone else on the second floor. Mayor Mike Ghassali Montvale

EMERSON

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game that is open to kids of all skill levels. Games are played on Sunday mornings at the Mark Lane Athletic Complex in River

Vale. For more information visit pascackflag.sportngin.com. — Reader submission

The Giants went all the way Nov. 29. (Photo via Brian Murphy.)

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

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DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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Simple ways to prolong the life of poinsettias

Poinsettias and their rich red, white or variegated color schemes are the ideal backdrop for Christmas celebrations. In fact, poinsettias are among the most popular decorative flowers during the holiday season. According to the 2013 USDA Floriculture Statistics report, poinsettias accounted for about onequarter (23 percent) of all flowering potted plant sales that year. Roughly 34 million poinsettia

plants are sold in a given season. Indigenous to Central America, the plant was introduced to North America in the 1820s when Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States Minister to Mexico, brought the red-and-green plant back with him from a trip abroad. While millions of poinsettias will be purchased for the holiday season, many mistakenly think their utility ends once New Yearʼs Day has come and gone. But with

proper care poinsettia plants can continue to thrive and bring warmth and beauty to a home long after the holiday decorations have been tucked away. • Choose a hearty plant. Experts with the University of Vermont Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science say that many people mistake the plantʼs leaves for its flowers. The red, white or pink bracts are actually modified leaves. The flowers of

the plant are the yellow clustered buds in the center called “cyathia.” Choose poinsettia plants that have buds which are, ideally, not yet open. • Keep the temperature consistent. Poinsettias prefer a room temperature between 60 and 68 F during the day and 10 degrees cooler at night. Humidity levels between 20 and 50 percent are ideal. Group plants on water-filled trays full of pebbles to help increase humidity levels. • Place near sunlight. The United Kingdom-based Perrywood floral company advises placing poinsettia plants near a bright windowsill but not in direct sunlight. Do not let a poinsettia touch cold window panes. • Avoid drafts. The plants are sensitive to drafts and changes in

temperature. So itʼs best to keep poinsettias away from drafty doors, windows, radiators, or fireplaces. • Donʼt drown the roots. Wait until the surface of the compost dries out before watering the plant anew. Also, the decorative foil wrapper that covers pots can trap water and lead to root rot. Remove it or poke holes in the bottom to allow for drainage. • Cut back plants. Come mid-March, cut back the plant by half to encourage new shoots, suggests the University of Illinois Extension. The plants also can be placed outside in the spring after the risk of frost has passed. Bring poinsettias back in around midSeptember to early October to force them to bloom again.

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Delighting children of all ages were marching bands; many outstanding floats; fire trucks decked with lights; clowns; dancers; and the Westwood Community Band. This yearʼs theme, “Celebrating Frontline Heroes,” saw floats and marchers thanking our first

FROM PAGE 1

responders and essential workers for the sacrifices they have made to protect all of us. Many floats stood out, including Santaʼs workshop and

his dancing elves, Whoville, and a holiday animal hospital. The organizations that contributed to the paradeʼs success spent many hours in preparation

and we sincerely thank each of them. Adding to the fun, Westwood was visited by Frosty the Snowman, Chase and Marshall from “Paw Patrol,” the Grinch, and the Westwood Cardinal mascot. The childrenʼs favorites, as always, are Mrs. Claus, who read “The Night Before Christmas” at the bandstand, and Santa and his reindeer atop the fire truck.

The event could not safely take place without the dedication and extraordinary efforts of the Westwood Fire Department, Westwood Police Department, Westwood DPW and the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps. Additional support from surrounding towns was provided by The Bergen County Sheriffʼs Office and the police and CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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Home for the Holidays: Thanking responders H

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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FROM PAGE 15

Woodcliff Lake, Hawthorne, and Bergenfield. We thank all the department heads and staff for their help. The costs associated with the

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who helped us plan and coordinate the festivities. Special thanks to WWPD Chief Mike Pontillo, Deputy CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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EMERSON 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org • Miss Danielle offers a session of Bendy Bookworm on Monday, Dec. 13 from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Traditional yoga poses and energy exercises weave together with story books and rhymes. Age 6 and under. Register online. • Baby & Me, for age 2 and under, meets Tuesday, Dec. 14 at 11 a.m. Introduces songs, dance and fingerplay with stuffed animals and rhymes. Indoors; masks required. Register online. • In an indoor program for ages 1–6, sing and dance with Miss Jolie and her ukulele. Miss Jolie Music is Tuesday, Dec. 14 at 10:30 a.m. Open to the children of Emerson only. Register online. • Join Miss Victoria for Afternoon Storytime for ages 2–5 on Thursday, Dec. 16 at 3:30 p.m. Registration is recommended, but drop-in welcome. Due to capacity limit, only one adult will be permitted in the program room per family. Additional guests will be asked to wait in the main library. Meets weekly through Dec. 23. • Miss Shelley of Every Little Thing Yoga presents Family Yoga Saturday, Dec. 18 at 11:15 a.m. Play, move and learn with the whole family. Register online. HILLSDALE 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org • Join Maria outside 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. Thursday, Dec. 16, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Registration required. Class will be moved indoors in bad weather. • Almost everything you know about Mickey Mouse is wrong: he wasnʼt Disneyʼs first star, “Steamboat Willie” wasnʼt his first movie, Mickey wasnʼt a nice guy—and Walt Disney didnʼt invent him. In his lecture “A Mouse Divided: The Origins of Disney”—Monday, Dec. 20 from 7 to 8 p.m.—author

Jeff Ryan presents a stirring depiction of two underdogs: one invented Mickey Mouse, and one said he did. Space is limited; registration required.

MONTVALE 12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org • Artist Peri presents a Kids Art Class Monday, Dec. 13 from 4 to 5 p.m. Grade 2 and up. Registration required. • The Montvale Cookbook Supper Club meets to discuss “Delish: Insane Treats” by Joanna Saltz and bake up some sweet goodies, in person or via Zoom, on Monday, Dec. 13 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Email therese.jones@montvale.bccls.org to register. • Certified instructor Amy Rutledge leads a four-session Virtual Guided Meditation Series on Mondays at 7 p.m. No experi-

ence necessary; register for as many sessions as you want. • Canʼt make it into New York City to see the holiday lights? Enjoy the next best thing with local historian Mario Mediciʼs video photo slide lecture, “Holiday Lights of New York City.” Meander through the streets of New York, taking in the sights in this virtual talk. Via Zoom, Thursday, Dec. 16 from 7 to 8 p.m. Register online.

PARK RIDGE 51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org • Storytime with Miss Renee on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10 in the First Friends room (across the hall from the library). For toddlers and preschoolers but open to all. Registration required. • Virtual Take-and-Make Crafts with Miss Renee Fridays at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook

page. Miss Renee walks kids through a fun craft at home. Call or stop at the library during the week to pick up the craft supply kit. The videos remain on Facebook; check them out live or anytime that fits your schedule. • Miss Eileen welcomes kids to join her on the libraryʼs Facebook page (Park Ridge Public Library–NJ) every Saturday at 10 a.m. for the Virtual Book-It Club—stories, science and more for primary grades. No registration required. RIVER VALE 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org • The library offers Virtual Qigong classes, via Zoom, on Mondays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Open to all ages, and you donʼt have to be a River Vale resident. Register for Zoom link. • The Tween & Teen Snowy

Mason Jar Craft, for River Vale residents grades 4–8, is Monday, Dec. 13 from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Create a snowy mason jar perfect for the winter season. Registration required. • Catch the film “Respect” (PG-13, 2021), the story of Aretha Franklin, at the libraryʼs Movie Matinee on Tuesday, Dec. 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. Space is limited. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. All participants must sign a hold-harmless agreement. • River Vale residents in grades K–2 are invited to the Pipe Cleaner Snowflakes Craft on Wednesday, Dec. 15 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Children create beautiful snowflakes using pipe cleaners and beads. Registration required. • Feeling stressed from the holidays? Stop by the library for some Relaxation Art in the CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

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Parking Authority to meet Dec. 14

A special meeting of the Westwood Parking Authority has been scheduled for 7 p.m. on Dec. 14 at the Westwood Municipal Building, 101 Washington Ave. The purpose of this meeting shall be a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters. The Parking Authority reserves the right to take formal action in open session if needed.

201-461-0003 Dr. Leo Swerdlof #06056 Steven Savino, DDS • Michal Bitton, DMD • Larry White, DDS George T. Favetta, Jr, DMD • Mo Li, DDS • Dr. Sarah Chen, DDS Tracy Ginsberg, Board Certified Periodontist

A WA R D E D M U L T I T O P D E N T I ST 2020

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Prepare the fireplace for holiday decorating

A jolly holiday season can be made even more merry with a roaring fire. Homeowners often build holiday tableaus around the fireplace to serve as festive backdrops. The mantle and the fire-

place itself also may be a prime spot to dedicate to decorating this time of year. Even though Christmas tree fires are rare, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, when

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they do occur theyʼre likely to be serious. That is why trees and other flammable decorations need to be kept clear of gas and wood-burning fireplaces and stoves. In addition, many other guidelines should be heeded to ensure fireplaces and holiday decor safely coexist this season. Read labels on decorative items carefully before decorating. Be sure to only select items that are flame-resistant or retardant. Cherished collectibles and other items should always be kept far away from open flames and heat. It pays to have a fireplace inspected and cleaned for use prior to operation, advises Doherty Insurance Agency. Rely on a trained chimney sweep, and have the fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned at least once per year. Even though it may be picturesque, do not place wrapped packages or gift boxes near the fireplace, as they tend to be highly combustible. Keep presents and other flammable items at least three feet away from the fireplace. Do not be tempted to dispose of wrapping paper, boxes or even

Effortless elegance actually calls for careful consideration, particularly around safety. a Christmas tree in the fireplace. from the fireplace so kids do not Wrapping paper contains addi- hang out near the heat and open tives that make it burn at high flames. temperatures. Fireplaces are often a focal A Christmas tree hasnʼt been point of holiday decorating and properly seasoned and could be a entertaining. Homeowners who fire hazard and potentially con- want to incorporate their firetribute to excessive smoke and places into their holiday decor creosote. must emphasize safety when Keep decorations that kids doing so will be tempted to touch away

PARK RIDGE

OLMC wants to hear from you

Our Lady of Mercy Church writes to say “In what might be a once in a lifetime opportunity, Pope Francis has convened a Synod on Synodality for 20212023. This worldwide process is a two-year examination of the way in which the universal Church listens to and walks with its parishioners. It is an exciting opportunity for every baptized Catholic to be heard, including those who have left the Church, have never been a part of the Church, or who donʼt feel welcome by the Church.” Active church parishioners

are invited as well. An information session on the Synod will be held on Jan. 5, 2022 at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Church. The session will be livesteamed at urolm.org. OLMC explains the word synodality means “walking on the same road together,” and says “The road leads us to personally encounter Christ and to bring the Gospel message to others so that they too may experience Him.” OLMC adds, “Pope Francis has asked every parish in the world to hold listening session in which two key questions will be asked:

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How is this journeying together happening today in our local church? What steps does the Holy Spirit invite us to take in order to grow in our journeying together?” Weʼre told, “Through the process of prayer, exchange of ideas, listening to one another, and discerning what the Holy Spirit is asking, this is an incredible chance to assist the Holy Father in developing a vision for the future of the Church.” For more information, visit urolm.org or the Archdiocese of Newark at rcan.org/synod2023.

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BRING IN NEW HAUL OF STATE AWARDS

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PASCACK VALLEY

Pascack Valley Student Publication, which won 42 state awards, including first-place honors in 20 categories, as announced by the Garden State Scholastic Press Association (GSSPA) Nov. 9 and 10 via Instagram Live. And congratulations to The Pascack Hills Trailblazer, which pulled in three awards and one honorable mention in its second contest outing. The Trailblazer noted that student journalists helped GSSPA president Bill Rawson announce the winners for online and print categories for the 2020-21 school year. Rawson is an English teacher and the journalism advisor at Pascack Valley High School — also its 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year — and a former sports writer and editor for The New Jersey Herald, the daily newspaper in Sussex County. Judging was by out-of-state experts. Submissions in 26 categories were made over the sumONGRATULATIONS TO

PV senior Matt Austin won first place for his photographs in several categories, including in Division A, Photography. This award was for “Class of 2021 graduation held on June 16,” above. mer and reflect last school yearʼs content. Pascack Valley High School said in a statement, “The judge in the News Writing category couldnʼt decide between three submissions from the publicationʼs heavily awarded ʻWhatʼs in a Name?ʼ package about the schoolʼs mascot

controversies, so she chose to rate all three in a first-place tie.” It said “Senior Matt Austin continues to rack up photography awards, taking first and second places in both the Photography and the Online Photo Gallery cat-

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Hillsdale out in numbers to help celebrate spirit of the season

PASCACK VALLEY

FRIEDBERG FOOD DRIVE THROUGH DEC. 30

Friedberg Properties/Friedberg Neighbors Helping Neighbors community service group is collecting donations for local food pantries through Dec. 30, and you can pitch in. Manager and broker associate Robin Effron Malley says, “With the holiday season approaching, many people are beginning to wonder how they are going to feed their families, but the shelves in the pantry are getting bare and the need is great. We encourage everyone to donate.” Wondering what you can donate? Malley has you covered: “Think about the food you would like on your Thanksgiving table! Food banks also need the day-to-day staples. Here are a few sug-

gestions beyond the canned goods: cereals, instant oatmeal, powdered milk, apple sauce, granola bars, spices, soap, shampoo, toothpaste/toothbrushes, paper goods, laundry detergent, diapers, canned meats, stews, vegetables and fruits, bags of apples, bags of potatoes, and cake mixes.” Donations can be dropped off at any Friedberg office from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. any day of the week at 213 Rivervale Road, River Vale; 1018 Closter Dock Road, Alpine; and 105 Union Ave., Cresskill. For more information, call Friedberg Neighbors Helping Neighbors at (201) 666-0777.

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Gingerbread cookies and houses are one of the many symbols of the holiday season, alongside Christmas trees and twinkling lights. In fact, few confections symbolize the holidays more so than gingerbread. Many a child (or a child at heart) has spent hours carefully

Even though gingerbread houses can be fun to make, thereʼs no denying it can be exacting work — especially for those who strive for perfection. Prepackaged kits attempt to take some of the guesswork out of the equation, but those who are crafting from scratch can employ these tips as

“glue” to adhere gingerbread pieces. Beddall says icing should be thick like peanut butter and not runny. • Mind the dough. Do not roll out the gingerbread dough too thin or it may become brittle after being cooked. Always cut out shapes before the gingerbread is baked. Let the baked pieces sit overnight to cool completely before using them to build. • Patience is key. Allow the icing to dry for at least a couple of

hours after adhering each piece and before moving and handling the house, says Beddall. Work in stages so that individual items can be decorated and allowed to dry. Then the walls can be put together, followed by the roof pieces. • Kids likely will need help. Children may not have the patience or steadiness to handle complete gingerbread construction. They can decorate the separate pieces of the house while the components are laying flat, which

is easier for kids. Adults can do the main assembly later on. • Utilize a template. Freehanding may not be easy. Cut out templates using cardboard or posterboard for various gingerbread pieces. One of the most important tips is to have fun. Donʼt take gingerbread house making too seriously as a novice. Rather, enjoy the experience and the centuries-old tradition.

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Is there any confection better suited to symbolize the winter holidays than gingerbread? trying to create decorative ginger- they build their gingerbread housbread houses. Although ginger- es. bread recipes span various cul• Go for form and not flavor. tures, gingerbread houses origi- Few gingerbread houses ever get nated in 16th century Germany. eaten, so focus on finding a dough The fairy tale “Hansel and that will bake up rock hard as Gretel” helped solidify the popu- opposed to one that tastes good. larity of gingerbread, which • Get the right icing texture. became part of Christmas tradi- Pastry artist Catherine Beddall tions. says royal icing is the preferred

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HILLSDALE

‘A Very Broadway Christmas’ with Ciarán Sheehan Dec. 21

The Parish of Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church invites you to a timely concert on Dec. 21 at 7 p.m.: “A Very Broadway Christmas” with Ciarán Sheehan, the famed opera singer and musician originally from Dublin, Ireland. The parish touts Sheehanʼs “thrilling life journey from the early years in Dublin with a Godgiven talent, through more than 1,000 performances as the masked star of the ʻThe Phantom of the Operaʼ and multiple sold out concerts at Carnegie Hall, all the way to the lives and hearts of countless fans and listeners throughout the United States, Ireland, and the world.” The concert includes three other artists known for their significant musical accomplishments in the United States and internationally: Sue Anderson, Gabriel Donohue, and Heather Bixler. Sheehan says, “I very much look forward to our Broadway Christmas in Hillsdale in such a special place dedicated to the one who came to prepare the way for the Savior.” St. John Msgr. Peter Smutelovic tells Pascack Press, “It is so obvious that we all need

“

IT IS so obvious that we all need more of these joyous and community-building events on our way out of so many challenges, sorrows, and setbacks of the dreadful global pandemic.”

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more of these joyous and community-building events on our way out of so many challenges, sorrows, and setbacks of the dreadful global pandemic.” A native of Dublin, Ireland, Sheehan played the role of the Phantom of the Opera on Broadway and in Toronto for grand 1,000 performances. He has also appeared on Broadway in “Les Misérables” (Babet/Marius) and in as Raoul in “The Phantom of the Opera” for more than two years. Other New York stage performances include numerous appearances with The Irish Repertory Theatre Company; SHEEHAN

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

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Tom in “Grandchild of Kings” (written and directed by Hal Prince); Shaughnessy in “The Hostage”; Ciarán in “The Irish… and How They Got That Way” by Frank McCourt; Sir Dinadan in “Camelot” (with Jeremy Irons); nd Woody in “Finianʼs Rainbow.” As a producer, Sheehan created the sold-out productions of “The Molly Maguires” directed by Tony Award-nominated director Sheryl Kaller at the FM Kirby Center in Wilkes-Barre, Penn in which he also starred. He has three PBS specials to his credit: “The Irish… and How They Got That Way,” “From Galway to Broadway,” and “Ciarán and Friends.” As a solo artist he has sold out Carnegie Hall four times and The National Concert Hall in Dublin. Recordings include “The Irish… and How They Got That Way,” “Haʼpenny Bridge,” and “Ciarán and Friends Vol. I & 2.” Heʼs also turned up on televisionʼs “Law and Order,” “One Life To Live,” “Another World,” “Late Night with David Letterman,” and in numerous PBS appearances. Sue Andersonʼs career has been full and varied, ranging from Broadway productions to films to recordings. As a conductor and musical director, she has

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worked with the Broadway and national touring companies of “Pirates of Penzance,” “Me and My Girl,” and “Cats.” She has conducted Pops concerts with the Milwaukee, Detroit, Phoenix, Portland and Shreveport orchestras and most recently conducted the London Philharmonia at Abbey Road Studios. An accomplished pianist, Anderson was the featured onstage pianist in Broadwayʼs “Jerryʼs Girls.” She also performs regularly at Carnegie Hall with the all-state choirs produced by Field Studies International. She was the musical director for The First All Childrenʼs Theater, The Broadway Local, SoundBites, and has toured many times with the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. Gabriel Donohue was born in Athenry, a walled medieval town in County Galway and by age 14 he was a member of the Leitrim Ramblers Ceili Band traveling all around the Connemara Gaeltacht and throughout the west of Ireland. His talent was not limited to traditional, and he moved more into the showband side of the music when he joined Magic, which had numerous Top-10 hits in Ireland.

Donohue is an extremely gifted and talented guitarist, pianist, bouzouki player, singer and songwriter. His musical artistry has always had him in high demand for many of the elite in Irish music circles. Heather Bixler is a classical violinist and Irish fiddler whose playing has taken her all over North America, Europe, and Asia. A graduate of Indiana University, The Juilliard School, and University of Memphis. She has performed in many major concert halls including Musikverein in Vienna, Carnegie Hall in New York, as well as concert halls in Tokyo, Barcelona, and Mexico City. In 1992, Bixler won a first violin position in the Orquestra Ciutat de Barcelona in Spain and since then has held concert-master positions with South Dakota Symphony and Orquesta Sinfonica de la Mineria in Mexico City, and has worked as a substitute violinist with the New York Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, and American Symphony.

Ticket information is forthcoming. Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church is at 69 Valley St., Hillsdale. Call (201) 664-3131 or visit stjohnhillsdale.org.

PASCACK VALLEY Emerson College student Alyssa Raine Lara of Westwood is co-curating Emerson Contemporaryʼs “I: An Intimate Reflection” in Boston in the Media Art Gallery on Avery Street from Nov. 17 through Dec. 12. The presentation includes a broad range of media by Boston-based emerging artists in photography, steel sculpture, acrylic painting, digital video, and hand-sewn mixed media installations. The exhibition was curated by 14 undergraduate students in conjunction with a Visual Media

Arts course, Curating Contemporary Art, taught by Dr. Leonie Bradbury, Distinguished Curator-in-Residence. Students are responsible for all aspects of the exhibition, including exhibition design, building a website, loan agreements, the object checklist, educational materials, social media assets, and press materials. Lara is majoring in Media Arts Production for her BFA and is a member of the Class of 2022. Emerson College said earlier this year Lara, who graduated Westwood Regional High School, was honored with the

VMA Departmentʼs Chair Award for the spring 2021 semester and often makes the deanʼs list. Emerson Contemporary issued a public call for emerging artists in the Boston area. The following 10 artists are showcased: Semaj Campbell, Willoughby Lucas Hastings, Asma Khoshemer, Billy Lyons, Emily Bridget Manning-Mingle, Mara-Williams, Elizabeth (Liz) Rennie, Stephaine Van Riet, Neetu Singhal, and Zhiqian Wang. “I: An Intimate Reflection” aims “to digest the tangible and intangible aspects of identity. In

PARK RIDGE

2022-23 kindergarten registration dates

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

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

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

showcasing highly individualized works, the exhibition presents a space to consider subjective differences in intersectional approaches, as well as means for exploring how implicit biases may be challenged or fostered for change.” are obscured, Objects enlarged, exaggerated, and adapted into gestures of bold authenticity with compelling internal and external realities. By providing expressive, autobiographical and philosophical approaches, the selected artists reveal the vulnerability of producing art in order to reclaim their identity and help others do the same. Emerson Contemporary is the College's platform for showcasing contemporary visual art. It is focused on presenting living artists, their ideas, experiments and creative practices in the areas of media art, performance art and emergent technologies, while critically examining these works in their social context.

Art for I: An Intimate Reflection via Emerson Today.

Based in Boston opposite the historic Boston Common and in the heart of the cityʼs Theatre District, Emerson College “educates individuals who will solve problems and change the world through engaged leadership in communication and the arts, a mission informed by liberal learning.” For more information, visit emerson.edu.

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Montvale: Borough projects, Planning Board notes

HOLIDAY

provided by the applicant. This application is for construction of a 25-unit development on Summit Avenue at Craig Road. • Bank of America, 80 Chestnut Ridge Road – The approval of a resolution granting approval was tabled at the Nov. 16, board meeting due to clarification of required technology improvements requested by the Police Department. • 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

FROM PAGE 6

Drive – This application for a new tenant includes several site improvements related to their operations. No hearing date has been set. • Moksha/Valley View SubDivision – 89 Valley View Terrace – We issued the resolution compliance and bonding recommendation to the borough. A developerʼs agreement will be prepared ahead of the issuance of any permits for the start of construction. 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 Valley View Terrace. Planning Board Inspection Projects • De Pieroʼs Lifestyle Build-

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ings – One tenant space is vacant in the “Ulta” building. • AR Landmark (Hornrock) – 12 Van Riper Road – The applicant continues to clear and grade the site. AR Landmark was issued permits on Nov 1 for building and site improvements. This development includes 185-dwelling 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) – The borough has issued one Certificate of Occupancy (CO) and is working on several additional COs. Model townhomes are open at 10–14 Driftway Lane, and the applicant will be filing for COs in the near

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future. Work to stabilize and rebuild the north pond retaining wall has been completed. This project includes the construction of 80townhouse units in 18-buildings at 2 Paragon Drive. • Woodland Heights/Flintlock Road – This 20-home subdivision off Woodland Road has 16 homes occupied, and two homes under construction. Two undeveloped lots remain. COAH fees will be collected once the applicant applies for the construction of the final home site. • North Market/Triboro (former Mercedes property) – Office Building No. 2 is partially occupied, with two additional tenant spaces being prepared while work is ongoing. Construction also is ongoing for the residential components of the Phase I development (Building Nos. 1 & 3). Development • Premier

(Alexa), 160 Spring Valley Road – Work continues at the site with stormwater improvements being completed in the western portion of the site along with work on Building 10. This 81-unit townhome development north of Upper Saddle River Road has 33-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 winter/spring of 2022. CED met with representatives of the contractor on July 19 regarding site conditions, and work continues on the site which is nearing completion. The applicant is approved for additional site amenities including pickleball courts, a dog park and walking trail.

Habitat: Ceremony home for a family,” he added. Ruocco said the court conducted a public fairness hearing on the agreement in 2018. The borough, with input from its engineer, “worked diligently to identify appropriate donation properties,” and all settled on this lot, which the town has no other use for. The Borough Council passed a resolution on June 11, 2019, approving the donation. “We are engaged in final discussions with Habitat for Humanity to consummate the donation so

FROM PAGE 10

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that construction of the home for an eligible and needy family may proceed,” Ruocco said. He said the residents in the immediate neighborhood brought concerns to his and the councilʼs attention at a public meeting in the latter half of 2019. “I, along with borough professionals, have met with them to explain our obligations, the approval process that was followed, and to address their concerns,” he said. The nonprofit Bergen ReStore, which buys and sells used home elements, operates at 121 Carver Ave. in Westwood.

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p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, 4 to 10:30 p.m. Visit Vicoloʼs website for its menu: vicoloristorante.com. For reservations, takeout, catering, and more, call (201) 497-8777.

Add marsala wine. Serve with fresh vegetables and mashed potatoes • Buon Appetito! Vicolo is at 216 Old Tappan Road in Old Tappan. Open Monday–Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 to 10:30

Italian singing and opera-style music.

Club News? • 6 oz. lobster tail • 1 stick of butter, melted for lobster • Shikake, portabello and domestic mushrooms • 1 tbsp. Olive oil

Perfection! Pull up a chair at Vicolo Ristorante, where elegance meets affordable and delicious Italian cuisine.

walk-ins, but takes reservations and offers takeout. Vicolo will be delighted to host your holiday business of family parties. Seating is available for up to 100. Catering is also offered and the restaurant has a full bar, including over 100 wines. Live performances during the weekends feature

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

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Cudequest returns to Borough Council

The Council

Montvale Borough has unanimously approved the appointment of Theresa Sileo Cudequest to serve out the remainder of former councilwoman Rose Curryʼs term. CUDEQUEST Cudequest served on the Montvale council 2011–2015 and served and volunteered on many town boards.

Mayor Michael Ghassali said on Dec. 5, “I welcome councilwoman Cudequest back and look forward to working with her again. She will be appointed to be the liaison to the library board, the health board, stigma free and several other committees to be finalized by end of the month.” Ghassali wrote residents on Nov. 23 to say Curry has decided to step down for personal reasons. He said the chairman of the Republican committee, Chris

HOLIDAY CATERING!

Roche, would submit three names to the council on Tuesday, Nov. 30, for consideration. The council voted on the replacement. Ghassali said there will be a special election in November 2022 to fill the remainder of Curryʼs term of office. He added, “We wish Councilwoman Rose Curry all the best and sincerely thank her for her service and dedication to our community.” Curry was elected to Borough Council President for 2015 and 2017.

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DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Vicolo Ristorante meets a full array of dining and entertaining needs. Vicolo welcomes

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Schools: Bond referendum Tuesday, Dec. 14 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 14: • Voting districts #1–3 at the Senior Community Center, 1 Memorial Drive. • Voting district #4 at the 2nd

FROM PAGE 1

Floor Council Chambers of the Montvale Municipal Complex, 12 Mercedes Drive. Public school officials, including superintendent Dr. Darren Petersen and Board of Education President Ernie DiFiore, have

held a virtual forum, and spoken at multiple public events to promote the need to upgrade schools. Petersen said, “In the months leading up to the vote, the district offered many opportunities for residents to learn about the pro-

WESTWOOD

Sweet start to the holidays…

JJ Krachtus, owner of Conradʼs Confectionery, hosted an early-morning get-togther on Saturday, Nov. 27, in celebration of the holiday season and Small

Dave Ward brings Conrad’s Homemade Hot Chocolate back to the crew at Westwood Pets.

Business Saturday. Krachtus said he celebrated the initiative from a business-tobusiness standpoint, inviting fellow business owners for free homemade hot chocolate and coffee as a means of taking a moment to say hello before the holiday rush begins. Having a Small Business Saturday mindset, says Krachtus,

Scott Davies, Conrad’s event specialist, and JJ Krachtus, owner of Conrad’s Confectionery. third-generation owner of Con- Great Depression, World War II, radʼs Confectionery, at 107 West- and now a pandemic. The familywood Ave., is essential year-round owned business prides itself on and is something he looks forward quality products including hometo continuing to support and made ice cream, chocolates, and encourage throughout the West- candy. For more information on wood community and beyond. Confectionery, Conradʼs Confectionery visit Conradʼs founded in 1928, has survived the conrads1928.com.

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posal and what the improvements would mean for the schools and community. Those efforts included a postcard mailed to every household, volunteers stationed at places where residents gathered, an informative website with extensive FAQs, a 4-minute video, attended several meetings (Montvale Senior Club, Mayor & Council, PTO, MEF, District, etc.) and a virtual Info Session that was recorded for future viewing.” He added, “Pascack Press has published several articles [and] Mayor Mike Ghassali has included information in his e-newsletter, and we have partnered with social media accounts that have a broad audience in Montvale.” Ghassali told residents the Board of Education sought input from the community during a strategic planning process in 2019, “then scaled back the original list of ideal improvements.” The referendum reflects the community goals of small class sizes and facilities to meet future education needs, he said: • Five new classrooms at Memorial Elementary, and re-purposing of space at Fieldstone Middle; • STEAM Labs at both schools to blend the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, art, and math; • Redesigned Media Center at Fieldstone, including an ADAcompliant entrance; • Renovated restrooms in the schools, and the addition of a stand-alone restroom next to the athletic fields at Fieldstone; • Also at both schools: More energy efficient HVAC systems; new boilers; upgraded classroom doors and locksets; and upgraded fire alarm systems.

DiFiore said in a statement, “Residents of Montvale take a lot of pride in being a community that cares about its future. The school districtʼs small class sizes and supportive community have made our town a valued place to raise a family, and the Board is dedicated to preparing our youngest residents for an everchanging world.”

State aid in the balance According to Petersen, state $7.2 million in referendum-only state aid “comes from taxes collected from across New Jersey, but it is only shared with school districts where voters approve [school] bonds.” He said, “Without this strategic budget move, important improvements such as routine replacement of building systems and renovation of classrooms would fall 100% on local taxes.” Petersen said if the bond is approved, state aid is provided year by year, as if the state is helping to make the payments. “After that state aid is factored in, the property tax impact is estimated to be about $325 per year for a home assessed at Montvaleʼs average [$524,788],” he said. Old debt retired The school district recently finished paying off debt that voters approved 20 years ago to build the Memorial kindergarten wing and gym, Petersen said. For the average home, the annual payment on that had gradually declined to about $100 until it was paid off this year, he said. For more information on the referendum, including finances, visit montvalek8.org/future.

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community room, Thursday, Dec. 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Destress through coloring and watercolor painting. Bring your own or use the libraryʼs supplies. • The virtual program Nurturing Healthy Relationships focuses on developing understanding of the term “nurturing” and how it can help strengthen various relationships such as family, parent–children, and personal. Online, Thursday, Dec. 16 from 2 to 3 p.m. Register for access. • The library offers a Tween & Teen Craft-to-go Saturday, Dec. 18. Drop by the library that day to pick up supplies to craft a giant paper bag snowflake at home. River Vale residents 4th grade and up. One per person, while supplies last. FROM PAGE 17

dient, and some recipes to try. Register for Decemberʼs kit (cardamom) online; pickup starts Dec. 13. • On New Release Tuesdays, Allyssa pops onto Facebook and Instagram to share todayʼs new book releases. Book reviews, laughs, and more! There is no set time for this live program, but it

DINING

will be available on the libraryʼs website on demand in the evening. Follow the library on social media to see when Allyssa goes live. • Homework Help is available Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m. at the library. Kids in grades K–5 can get homework help from an older student. Register online. • The library will hold a Movie Matinee on Wednesday, Dec. 15 at 1 p.m. See the film “12 Mighty Orphans” (2021, PG-13)

with closed captions. • Art Club for Kids, a monthly program for grades K–5, meets Friday, Dec. 17 at 3:30 p.m. A teen volunteer leads kids in exploring fun drawing techniques. Register online. Masks required.

WESTWOOD 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org • Childrenʼs author J.D.

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TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586 twpofwashingtonpl.org • Yoga with Miss Danielle, for ages 2–5 with a caregiver, is Monday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. at the library. Stories come to life through interactive yoga poses. Please wear a mask and bring a mat or blanket. Register online. • Spice up your kitchen! Try something new and sign up for one of the libraryʼs spice kits. A new kit is offered each month. Included inside is a spice or dried herb, information about the ingre-

HILLSDALE

STYROFOAM RECYCLING DRIVE DEC. 26

Save your holiday (or other) Styrofoam packaging for the Hillsdale Environmental Commissionʼs recycling drive on Dec. 26 from 11 a.m. to noon. Thereʼs a priority drop-off for Hillsdale residents from noon to 2 p.m., all dependent on capacity. See you at 411 Hillsdale Ave. (the parking lot next to Wendyʼs). For more information write hec@hillsdalenj.org.

Spr ea d t h e Word

We welcome press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements and event photographs from the Pascack Valley. Send news to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net

Pignoli Cookies • Struffoli Home Made Tortoni TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SUNDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

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21 22 23 24 26 28 29 30 31

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Thomas will be at the library for a read-aloud on Wednesday, Dec. 15 from 4 to 4:30 p.m. Thomas will read from his book, “Merry Christmas, Sandy.” Grades K–3. Book giveaway. Limited supplies. Register online. • The Online Book Group will meet via Zoom on Thursday, Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss “Raft of Stars” by Andrew Graff. Adults are welcome to join. Register online.

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Library Calendar

HOLIDAY

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

HOLIDAY

HILLSDALE

DINING

Artists’ holiday open house Dec. 10-12

Dream Makerʼs Studio invites you to its open house Dec. 10–12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 101 West St. Artists represented include: • Suzi Gerace, founder of the Dream Makerʼs studio — original artwork, upcycled fashion designs, pottery, jewelry and handpainted floor cloths. • Potters Theresa Mustafa and Alisen Herman, members of the prestigious Potterʼs Guild of New Jersey — handmade mugs

and tableware, ornaments and tiles. • Margaret Durbeck of Hackensack, Jeanne Stella of Closter and David Strauss of Park Ridge — prints, drawings, and kitschy holiday paintings that have never been shown before. All ages are welcome. Items for sale range $6 to $600. Information on the Studioʼs regularly scheduled classes and workshops for adults and children will be available during the open house.

Refreshments will be served, and a free crafting table will be provided for kids and adults. For more information on the open house, contact Suzi Gerace at (201) 248-5502 or suzigeracedesigner@gmail.com. Gerace has 40 years of experience as a toy designer, producing products made all over the world. Her designs include many iconic childrenʼs characters, including Paddington Bear, Madeline, Beatrix Potter, Good Night Moon, Arthur, and Eric Carlʼs Very Hungry Caterpillar. Moreover, she was a founder of Masks Matter, an organization that has made and distributed thousands of masks to local hospitals, nursing homes and more. For more information visit suzi895.wixsite.com/dreammakers.

Designer Suzi Gerace.

Potter Theresa Mustafa.

Dream Maker's studio.

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homesʼ setback variances. Murphy said he did not remember any resident opposing a 25-foot setback buffer. He said many residents opposed the entire development, “and again thatʼs just not something this board is empowered to do.” He said Lamatina did “set forth whatʼs going to happen if we donʼt resolve this logjam” regarding variances for two single-family homes. Parts of the hearing referred to court decisions and state law defining Mount Laurel and a Planning Boardʼs role, mostly from applicant attorney Jennings, plus testimony on the variance options for the two homes from Slachetka. During several previous hearings, a half-dozen or so nearby residents of Fillmore Drive and Van Emburgh Avenue repeatedly criticized the townshipʼs first-ever multifamily rental complex, a complex agreed to by the Township Council as part of its affordable housing settlement. Prior public comment periods often lasted 15 minutes or more, with multiple residents offering two or three comments following testimony of each applicant expert. They cited potential problems with traffic congestion, lack of privacy/screening, fire safety, emergency vehicles turning radiuses, fire vehicle access to parts of the complex, pedestrian

FROM PAGE 3

safety, and lack of parking, with one neighbor listing nearly 60 issues of personal concern. Recently, the police chief and volunteer ambulance corps captain raised concerns. Police Chief Richard Skinner worried about a lack of onsite parking, lack of emergency generator, and leftturn exit sight concerns; ambulance officials worried about ensuring ample elevator room to accommodate a large stretcher. Applicant experts had noted parking meets state residential site improvement standards, with 90 spaces provided and only 89 required; and prior applicant testimony said elevators will accommodate the 7-foot long and 3-foot wide stretchers. The development was detailed in a concept plan approved by Township Council in 2019 as part of its affordable housing amended settlement, and Planning Board members were restricted under state laws with what they could do or change, said some members. The Mount Laurel laws and prior agreements did not permit them to significantly change or alter the agreed-upon 44-unit inclusionary development, which includes seven on-site affordable rental units and 37 market-rate units. In addition to siting seven onsite affordable units, the applicant must pay $250,000 to the affordable housing trust fund for construction of two off-site units; be allowed to construct two mar-

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ket rate single-family homes as depicted on a conceptual plan in the settlement; and had agreed to abide by Ordinance 18-12, the ordinance enacting the developmentʼs conceptual plan contained in the settlement agreement. Ordinance 18-12 was cited in Jenningsʼ 27-page Nov. 19 memo, included as “Franklin Court Mgt. Letter to Board Chair” under online documents. Prior to the Dec. 1 hearing, Jennings prepared a 27-page memo detailing what was previously approved by Township Council as part of its affordable housing settlement agreement, initially approved in 2017 and then reapproved in 2019 following an updated wetlands delineation and a concept plan for the 44-unit, two-home development. The 2019 agreement contained a development concept plan prepared by CPL Partnership, LLC. Jenningsʼ memo spelled out case issues and applicable legal standards and statutes relevant to their application. Included in Jenningsʼ letter attachments was the “amended and restated settlement agreement” that was signed Sept. 6, 2019 by Mayor Peter Calamari and Uri Cohen, managing member of Franklin Court LLC. Calamari, one of nine Planning Board members, recused himself from participating due to his role in the affordable housing settlement. In her letter to board members on relevant legal principles

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and the settlement agreement, Jennings specifically details the boardʼs limited role in changing aspects of the development. “Generally speaking, the Township entered into an agreement to protect its interests, insulate itself from builderʼs remedy lawsuits, and obtain a judgment from the courts that it was in compliance with its affordable housing obligations. That Settlement Agreement is binding upon the Township, required the Township to adopt the Ordinance (18-12), and required the applicant to submit an application substantially similar to the concept plan attached to the Settlement Agreement,” Jennings concluded. “In the event the board were to deny the application, the Township risks losing immunity to builderʼs remedy suits,” wrote Jennings. Such suits, allowed under Mount Laurel law, often lead to drawn-out legal proceedings, high attorneysʼ fees, and court-ordered

settlements for higher-density, multifamily housing including affordable units. High-density developments approved in Englewood Cliffs and Park Ridge are two recent examples. At one point Dec. 1, Jennings told members that if they denied taking action on variances for the two homes, her client might go to Superior Court to press demands for its original proposal: a 60-unit rental apartment complex that was larger and taller than the proposed 44unit complex. Jenningsʼs letter advises, “The Boardʼs review of the site plan application is generally limited to determining whether the plan conforms to the Ordinance (18-12), and the Board may not request the applicant go above and beyond what is required by the Ordinance. The board may also not deny the site plan application based upon off-site conditions such as traffic.”

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Franklin Court: Planners say yes; work starts soon

HOLIDAY

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Home for the Holidays Chief Jay Hutchinson, Lt. Rich Antonacci, Lt. Mark Foley, Lt. John Hurtuk, Ptl. Dorfman and Ptl. Sestanovich, Rick Woods, Westwood Recreation, Gary Buchheister, Michael Lara, and the Westwood Public Library. We thank those who volunteered many hours coordinating the parade: Rusty Miller, Jim Gines, Lauren Letizia, RoseAnn Ciarlante, Karen Hughes and Yash Risbud. Edward Murtagh, Madison Ayer, and Zachary Menzella wore costumes. Teen volunteers were Jorge Eichler, Colleen Saunders, Elizabeth Gisler, Marta Bystrowska, Julia Dahdah, Cassidy Orbe,

FROM PAGE 16

Amanda Burns, Emily Gorham, Isabel DiFabio, Alexa Burke, Kayla Imbriale. Richard Frant/FrantVisuals professionally documented all the festivities. Some of his photos are on Home for the Holidays Facebook page. Joni Mitchell put to song the saying, “You donʼt know what youʼve got ʻtil itʼs gone” This yearʼs celebrations reminded us to count our blessings, not only in this season but every day. We wish you all happy holidays and look forward to seeing you at next yearʼs Home for the Holidays, the first week of December. — For the Home for the Holidays Committee; Richard Frant photos

WW Mayor Arroyo, Mrs. Claus, WW Council President Dell, and Emerson Mayor DiPaola.

James Nearly and his art.

The Clauses! Mrs. Claus read “The Night Before Christmas.”

Classic cars and more on parade Dec. 4 in Westwood.

There’s no safer place to be than at Home for the Holidays.

The view from Veterans Memorial Park’s gazebo: awesome.

Girl and Boy Scouts, and so many more youth, powered the parade.

Always working.

Westwood last beamed like this in 2019. How welcome was this year’s fun!

DR. KAPLAN: Visit my office for concussion baseline testing

Now that the school year is approaching, one of the most common reasons parents are bringing in their kids to see me has to do DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & with concussions. FootBODY ball, hockey, and soccer are sports in which many concussions occur. However, head injuries can take place in almost every sport and they occur in many off field events as well. The most important thing to consider is doing baseline testing. Baseline testing consists of a thorough brain and neurological evaluation to see how the child is before any injuries or head trauma.Without baseline testing, we never know when the child is back to normal and ready to play again. If the athlete is previously

concussed and hits their head a second time before they are back to their baseline, the symptoms seem to be much worse and have a much more dire consequence. Usually the second or third hit is a lot less violent and doesn't seem to be as bad as the first, but because the first head injury was not completely resolved, the brain cannot handle another impact, even if it is not as intense. The first step in preventing this scenario is taking a VNG/VOG baseline test. This is a non-invasive, infrared camera system that measures and records eye movements to determine brain function. Another test is computerized posturography (CAPS) where we measure balance and awareness of the body in space. The 3rd test is called the NSI (Neurosensory Integrator) which evaluates memory, reaction time, vision, and

focus. We also use the Interactive Metronome. Originally used to treat children with autism it is used for concussion testing to see how coordination, balance, hearing and seeing are integrated. These advanced testing techniques are used in addition to traditional testing, such as reflexes, muscle tests, and posture analysis to determine the baseline. Unfortunately, many parents do not realize their kids have a concussion and this may happen for a variety of reasons. Sometimes the child does not report to their parents that they even got hit in the head. Or they hide their symptoms so they can continue to play. Without baseline testing we have no idea what damage was done and that makes treatment much harder and less effective. There is no reason our children need to suffer from concussions

BERGEN COUNTY OFFERS COVID-19 BOOSTERS

The County of Bergen in partnership with Bergen New Bridge Medical Center announces that the Bergen County Vaccination Center will begin offering third dose boosters of the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA COVID-19 vaccines to those who are immunocompromised in accordance with CDC guidelines. The Bergen County Vaccination Center also continues to offer all three COVID-19 vaccines to those who have yet to receive a first dose. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is available to anyone age 12 or older and

the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccines are available to anyone age 18 or older. Bergen County health officials strongly urge all who are eligible to receive their vaccines as the beginning of school is quickly approaching. The Bergen County Vaccination Center is on the campus of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, 230 E Ridgewood Ave., Paramus, NJ 07652. Vaccinations will be offered Tuesday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For a full list of qualifying immunocompromising condi-

tions, visit the CDC website. The County of Bergen and Bergen New Bridge Medical Center are also awaiting guidance regarding third “booster” shots for the general public. Walk-in vaccinations are available but appointments are preferred. To make an appointments for first and third doses, visit BergenCovidVaccine.com. All vaccine recipients must show proof of age, and those ages 12–17 should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Vaccine recipients must live, work, or attend school in New Jersey.

when these injuries can be prevented. You do not have to have a concussion to have a brain injury. I had a patient who had some brain dysfunction that started after he bumped helmets with a teammate to celebrate a touchdown. Even though they were wearing the proper helmets at the time, my patientʼs head had this shearing force inside his skull that caused brain irritation and inflammation. Sometimes even just a quick head movement can cause the brain to get tossed around inside the skull, causing neurological damage. If you have symptoms or want to make sure you prevent symptoms I recommend baseline testing for sure. One of the best neurology tools we have in our office is called a qEEG with neurofeedback which measures brain waves. It is normally $300, but we are doing

a special for December where you can get the qEEG for $97 and neurofeedback treatments for $62.50. Call (201) 261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com. Besides stimulating the weak areas of the brain and calming down the overactive parts of the brain, it is also important to create good brain habits to function better, feel better, and live better. These habits include eating healthy, exercising daily, getting a good nightʼs sleep, drinking the proper amount of water, reducing stress and anxiety, having fun, creating joy, meditating, being in nature, and getting sunlight. For more informational videos about how to improve your brain function, subscribe to my YouTube channel “Kaplan Brain and Body,” and you will start to function better, feel better, and live better. It's a NO BRAINER!

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Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

THE SAVVY SENIOR: Track Down Unclaimed Life Insurance Policy

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Savvy Dear Senior, When my dad we died, thought he had a life insurance policy, but we have no idea how to track it down. Any sug-

— Searching Son

Dear Searching, Lost or forgotten life insurance policies are common in the United States. According to a study by Consumer Reports, 1 out of every 600 people is the beneficiary of an unclaimed life insurance policy with an average benefit of $2,000. It could be like finding out you have a secret savings account. While unfortunately, there isnʼt a national database for tracking down these policies, there are a number of strategies and a few new resources that can help your search. Here are several to get you started.

• Search his records: Check your dadʼs financial records or areas where he kept his important papers for a policy, records of premium payments, or bills from an insurer. Also contact his employer or former employer benefits administrator, insurance agents, financial planner, accountant, attorney or other adviser and ask if they know about a life insurance policy. Also check safe-deposit boxes, monitor the mail for premium invoices or whole-life dividend notices, and review old income-tax returns, looking for interest income from, and interest expenses paid, to life insurance companies. • Get help: The National Association of Insurance Commissioners offers a policy locator service (see NAIC.org and click on “Consumer” then on “Life Insurance Policy Locator”) that lets you run a nationwide search for insurance policies or annuities in the names of people who have died. There are also six state insur-

ance departments (Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, New York, North Carolina and Oregon) that have free policy locator service programs that can help you search. To find direct access to these state resources visit the American Council of Life Insurers website at ACLI.com – click on “Missing Policy Tips.” • Contact the insurer: If you suspect that a particular insurer underwrote the policy, contact that carrierʼs claim office and ask. The more information you have, like your dadʼs date of birth and death, Social Security number and address, the easier it will be to track down. Contact information for some big insurers include: Prudential 800-778-2255; MetLife Metlife.com/policyfinder; AIG 800-888-2452; Nationwide 800848-6331; John Hancock JohnHancock.com – click on “Lost or unclaimed policy form” at the bottom of the page under “Quick Links.” • Search unclaimed property: If your dad died more than a few years ago, benefits may have

WESTWOOD

Get your ’22 commuter parking decals

The year 2022 resident and non-resident commuter parking decals will be available on Nov. 22. Decals can be purchased by mail or by dropping off a copy of your driverʼs license and registration, a self-addressed stamped envelope, and $10 (for Westwood residents only) and $20 (for nonWestwood residents only) in the silver drop box outside Borough

Hall, 101 Washington Ave. Payment can be made by cash or check, made payable to “Borough of Westwood.” Resident commuter parking is available in designated areas around the train station. Non-resident commuter parking is limited to the Borough Hall Municipal parking lot only. All parking is first-come,

first-served and purchase of a resident or non-resident decal does not guarantee a parking space. A daily fee of $3 applies in addition to the required decal for non-resident parking only. The daily fee can now be paid through the ParkMobile app. 2022 decals must be used effective Jan. 1, 2022.

already been turned over to the unclaimed property office of the state where the policy was purchased. Go to MissingMoney.com, a website of the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators, to search records from 39 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. Or, to find links to each stateʼs unclaimed-property division use Unclaimed.org. If your dadʼs name or a potential benefactorʼs name produces a hit, youʼll need to prove your claim. Required documentation, which can vary by state, is detailed in claim forms, and a death certificate might be necessary. • Search fee-based services: There are several businesses that

offer policy locator services for a fee. The MIB Group, for example, which is a data-sharing service for life and health insurance companies, offers a policy locator service at MIB.com for $75. But it only tracks applications for individual policies made since 1996. You can also get assistance at Policy Inspector (PolicyInspector.com) for $99, and L-LIFE (LostLifeIns.com) for $108.50, who will do the searching for you. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

PASCACK VALLEY

Ask the Dentist: Implant teeth in a day — Is this true?

One of the most common questions I get from patients lately involves their curiosity and skepticism of claims they hear about ROBERT H. GULLER, D.M.D OF PASCACK DENTAL ARTS same-day implant teeth. They want to know if the claims or advertisements are true. The answer is a little complicated, but let me explain. First, not all patients are candidates for this type of procedure and secondthere is preparatory work involving diagnosis, health history, 3-D scanning and laboratory prep to make the actual teeth. The teeth to be fitted must be completed prior to the actual day of implant surgery and subsequent tooth placement. In the cases where the procedure can be performed in one day, the patient will leave with a set of

temporary teeth and instructed to stay on a soft diet for a period of several months. Final permanent “teeth” can be fabricated after approximately six months when the implants (anchors) have achieved complete stability. In a nutshell, the answer is yes, this procedure is real and can work out very successfully, but is not quite as simple as some patients imagine it to be. Advanced cases of this type often involve a team approach with the dentist, surgeon and laboratory technician or cross-trained dentist/specialist and laboratory. If you are wondering whether you are a candidate for this type of treatment for one or all of your teeth, discuss your options with your dentist or specialist. For questions about this or other dental information ask your dentist or contact Dr. Guller at askdrguller@aol.com or call (201) 391-5565

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Hillsdale, Emerson moms deliver on charity football fun PASCACK VALLEY

The 4th Annual Moms Charity Flag Football game is in the books, and what a game it was. When the dust settled, the Hillsdale Lady Hawks were four-time champions — this time brushing back newcomers Tikiʼs Turkeys of Oradell, Nov. 26 at Pascack Valley High School, 36–6. In concurrent play at Emerson High School, the Emerson Mamaliers took on the River Edge Pink Zone in a first Black Friday Football Fundraiser, and came away with the decisive win, 27-6. This wasnʼt dainty play. One Hillsdale brawler came away with a possible ligament tear on the inside of a knee; another suffered a sprained ankle. And on one offensive move, Emerson plowed into River Edge, sending one of their players off the field with a reported fractured tibia. All teams played for charity. Hillsdale raised $3,500 for Helping Hand Food Pantry at Hillsdale United Methodist Church, serving

Hillsdale, Westwood, Emerson, Oradell, and Woodcliff Lake. Lady Hawk Michele Carcich DeVincenzo posted, “Thankful to be part of such an amazing group of badass women! Oradell put up a great fight and Iʼm happy they were able to put a team together on such short notice! ʻTil next year, mommas!” She told Pascack Press on Dec. 8 that it was a great game and that she was “still healing, LOL.” Emerson sold baked goods and bracelets, with proceeds of $2,479 donated to the family of the late Lynn Monchino and “a ton” of food donations to Emerson Bible Church Food Pantry. Emerson Mamaliers, backed by coaches Mike Timmerman and Mike Fillippelli, are Brooke Castillo, Karen Borenius, Jenn Palko, Cristina Dillow, Ashley Rice, Andrea Lauterback, Kelly Abramopaulos, Lindsay Verrico, Danielle De Felice, Niki Wohlrab, Jenny Pagan, Amy Tortola, Jen Canino, Katie Benvenuto, Anouska Lowndes, Jess Timmerman, Marissa De Pietro, Cecilia Buffa, Talia Filippelli, and Janine Gianatasio. The Lady Hawks, coached by

River Edge can’t edge out Emerson on the Mamaliers’ own field. Nick Pourakis, are Alison Fitzgerald, Christine Lee, Danielle McNair, Elizabeth Carr, Hope Andreevski, Irene Hancock, Jenn Gilmour, Jen Maguire, Jennifer Sabatie, Jessica Salogiannis, Jessica Woods, Karen Rowland, Marisa Ventola, Meredith Leighton, Michele DeVincenzo, and Vicky Torunidis. Emerson played Hillsdale in 2018 and 2019 but sat 2020 out over Covid concerns. Youʼll see the teams square off again, said

Mamalier Borenius, who got the idea for the annual momsʼ match from her sister-in-law, who played in a similar event in South Jersey. Borenius told Pascack Press on Dec. 8, “It was raining in the morning, and then it kind of cleared up by the time our game was… there was lots of wind. That put a damper with the crowd, but we had a good turnout.” She said 45 minutes passed between the River Edge playerʼs injury and departure by ambulance, and players were jumping around to keep warm. When the player left, Emerson applauded her, but, based on social media posts, this was not appreciated. “When she got up, youʼre supposed to clap at the end, and we did that,” Borenius said. She added, “Weʼre all thrilled at the turnout and looking forward to next year and doing more fundraising.” This 4th Annual Mom Charity Flag Football game was the first time Hillsdale got to play at home, having beaten Emerson in away games in 2018 and 2019, and the Montvale Cowgirls on their stomping grounds in 2020. Lady Hawks founder Han-

cock told Pascack Press on Nov. 8 that Hillsdale was looking forward to playing Emerson again — musing that if another team had come through then Hillsdale and Emerson could have met in a playoff game. The Hillsdale–Oradell afterparty, naturally, was at sponsor The Cornerstone Restaurant, at 84 Broadway in Hillsdale. “We end up at Cornerstone for lunch and drinks and celebrations after practices and games, and we love them, theyʼre so much fun and weʼre so happy theyʼre supporting what weʼre all about,” she said. Oradell team founder Danielle Tikijian told Pascack Press on Nov. 16 that they were facing Hillsdale with all due respect for their record. The River Edge team was organized by Lisa Cronin. Both the Lady Hawks and Mamaliers are aiming to expand their Black Friday tradition to moms in other towns. To field a team in 2022, contact either the Lady Hawks or Mamaliers. — Danielle OʼBrien photos. See more of Danielleʼs game coverage at PascackPress.com.

Hillsdale Lady Hawks win again, this time at Pascack Valley High School.

Tiki’s Turkeys of Oradell came together quickly and fought the Hawks.

The Emerson Mamaliers enjoyed their win at Emerson High School.

Solid props to River Edge Pink Zone, who played hard for charity.

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Sc h ool News

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Academy of the Holy Angels lauds top-performing students

The Academy of the Holy Angels has recognized students who have maintained excellent grade point averages through the first quarter of the 2021–22 academic year. Angels who maintain an average of 95 or higher are named to the Principalʼs List. Students with averages of 90–94 are named to the Honor Roll. AHA congratulates the recent honorees, who include these Pascack Valley students — among many others:

Emerson Kaitlyn Brady Honor Roll

Ava Tripodi Principalʼs List

Montvale Ella Springer Honor Roll

Nora Giannantonio Honor Roll

Hillsdale Rachel Stanbury Honor Roll

Giovanna Springer Honor Roll

Ava McAdams Principalʼs List

Kate Hurst Principalʼs List

Alexa Watson Principalʼs List

Noelle Wacker Honor Roll

50/50 Alexandra Nicholas Principalʼs List

Bianca Cifelli Principalʼs List Eva Jurcevic Principalʼs List

Victoria Velasco Honor Roll Annika Watson Principalʼs List Park Ridge Alexa Cawood Honor Roll Kate Hynes Honor Roll

Emerson Volunteer Fire Department Co. 1 shared on Nov. 20 that the department is running a 50/50 fundraiser raffle. The drawing will take place on Dec. 18. Tickets are $20 each. For tickets, reach out to any member or visit the firehouse Mondays at 7:30 p.m.

Township of Washington Isabella Rosenbaum Honor Roll Westwood Celeste Fernandez Honor Roll

Katherine Lindquist Honor Roll Amelia Blanco Principalʼs List

Erin Pav Principalʼs List

Madeline Risbud Principalʼs List

Ella Tiscornia Honor Roll

Woodcliff Lake Elena DeBari Honor Roll

Hannah Glaser Principalʼs List

Isabella DeBari Principalʼs List

Valerie Rey Principalʼs List

— Report via Academy of the Holy Angels

Emily Figueroa Principalʼs List

Photo courtesy Emerson Volunteer Fire Dept.

Ashley Terjanian Principalʼs List

Kyra Sapontzis Principalʼs List

River Vale Samantha Polizzi Honor Roll

EMERSON

Julianna Sirico Principalʼs List

Isabella Novo Principalʼs List

Emma Yale Principalʼs List

Sophia Carroll Principalʼs List

Shannon Oliver Principalʼs List

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

5 WAYS TO HELP PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM FRAUD

From listening to music to ordering groceries, almost all aspects of our daily lives are connected to the Internet in some ERIC KOHLMEIER way. Nearly a third of Americans say theyʼre “almost constantly” online, with 81% using the Internet at least once a day. But our always-connected nature can come with risks: The FBIʼs Internet Crime Complaint Center averages more than 900 complaints a day; the center recorded $2.71 billion in victim losses in 2019.? Here are some ways you can help protect your family online. 1. Learn to spot imposter scams. Have you ever received a call, text, or email purporting to be from your credit card provider regarding suspicious activity detected on your account? It could be a scammer trying to convince you to share sensitive information that would enable them to access your accounts.

Increasingly, these criminals media profiles for clues to security may be able to spoof caller ID or an questions, passwords, and other email address so it appears they are information that could help them legitimate. When in doubt, do not impersonate potential victims respond. Instead, alert your online. provider about the suspicious comFirst, set your profiles to primunication. Learn more about how vate—and encourage your family to spot common scams at.wellsfar- members to do the same. Also, go.com/scams. restrict your social media contacts 2. Manage and monitor your to people you know personally. credit. If your data has been comFinally, watch what informapromised through a security tion you disclose. Revealing too breach, consider placing a fraud much personal information in your alert on your credit file with the social profiles can put you at greater three major credit bureaus. Visit risk of identity theft, especially if consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature- your bank or other companies use 0014-identity-theft for more infor- that information to verify your idenmation on identity theft prevention tity. tips and resources you can share 4. Protect your home netwith your family. work. Create a strong password for Make a habit of reviewing your wireless network in your credit reports for you and your home. Consider using a unique child at least once a year. Look for phrase with a mix of letters and unauthorized accounts that may numbers. Avoid using any part of have been opened in your names. More than 1 million children PASCACK VALLEY were victims of identity fraud in 2017, according to one study from banking industry research firm Javelin Strategy & Research.? The music departments at 3. Limit what you share on Pascack Hills and Pascack Valley social media. Thieves scour social high schools are excited to perform this holiday season. The district says “They have endured the challenges of the pandemic to rehearse and prepare” for a full schedule of performances:

that could have tax consequences. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state. This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director–Investments in Park Ridge at (201) 505-0472. Investments in securities and insurance products are not FDICinsured/not bank-guaranteed and may lose value. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2017–2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

and alumni PV Choir members at the Orpheus Menʼs Clubʼs Holiday concert, Childrenʼs Joy, at the First Presbyterian Church on 722 E. Ridgewood Avenue in Ridgewood. • Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. – The Pascack Valley Tri-M Music Honor Society presents a free concert, Celebration of Music, in the Pas-

cack Valley Auditorium, to honor PV alumni who suffered from the Covid-19 pandemic and lost their opportunity to perform on PV stage. The district says, “We encourage our community to join us for these upcoming performances and hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.”

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The performances • Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m. – The Pascack Hills Music Department performs its annual holiday concert in the Pascack Hills Auditorium. • Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. – The Pascack Valley Music Department performs its annual holiday concert in the Pascack Valley Auditorium. • Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 19 at 4 p.m. – Solo and group performances by current

PASCACK LACROSSE Open to residents of Hillsdale, Montvale, River Vale & Woodcliff Lake

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egories.” And it noted Pascack Valley Student Publication placed second among online student publications — “ending its four-year reign atop the Overall Excellence rankings.” In spring, The New Jersey Press Association in partnership with the GSSPA, awarded Pascack Valley senior Spencer Goldstein with its annual $5,000 Bernard Kilgore Scholarship. As part of the scholarship, Goldstein was recognized as the New Jersey Journalist of the Year for the 2020-21 school year. For the complete list of winners, visit GSSPA at https://gsspa.org/890/awards/202021-awards-contest-results. Here are PV Student Publicationʼs firstplace winners:

FROM PAGE 19

News Writing (tie) • “The retirement of the PV Indian,” Ellie Kim and Abby Shapiro. • “Response from the community,” Ellie Kim and Abby Shapiro. • “BOE approves Panthers as new mascot,” Abby Shapiro, Ilmie Xhaferi, and Emily Moy. Feature Writing • “From the field to the office,” Spencer Goldstein. In-Depth Reporting • “Whatʼs in a Name?” — Rachel Cohen, Ellie Kim, Abby Shapiro, Sarah Shapiro, Emily Moy, Trishan Nilaweera, Kareena Shah, Allison Varghese, Spencer Goldstein, Ilmie Xhaferi, Sarah Buttikofer, Nolan Wasserman, and Ava DeVincenzo.

Editorial Writing • “Itʼs time to move on from the mascot discussion,” Ellie Kim.

Personal Narrative • “Whatʼs in a name?” Ellie Kim. Photography • “Class of 2021 Graduation held on June 16,” Matt Austin.

Breaking News • “Panthers set to become Pascack Valleyʼs new mascot,” Spencer Goldstein and Ilmie Xhaferi. Breaking/Timely Sports • “Valley conquered by Ramapo in season opener” — Spencer Goldstein. Photo Gallery • “PV baseball falls short in ʻmarathonʼ Group 3 final” — Matt Austin.

Social Media Presence • Pascack Valley, The PV Student Publication. • Pascack Valley High School Logo. The Trailblazer pulled in the following awards: • Broadcast Features — Third place, Riley Solomon,

Scianna Scott, Lauren Eusebio, Ben Hoffman, Sabrina Moe, and Justine Marinkovic, “Pascack Recap Episode 2.” • Breaking News — Second place, Jared Mitovich, “Superintendent to leave district for new job.” • Editorial Cartooning — 1st place, Division B — Samantha Mansueto, “One debate: Two clowns.” mention: • Honorable Sports Writing — Division B — Shaan Dalal, “The Last Cowboy.” Hills said online, “There were no division separations for online awards, but the print awards were divided into three divisions based on school population. The article and editorial cartoon not linked are from the Trailblazerʼs winter and spring print editions.” Pascack Valley High School serves students from Hillsdale and River Vale. Pascack Hills High School serves students from Montvale and Woodcliff Lake. Both student news outlets are Pascack Press Student News Partners, and we have been privileged to bring our readers some of these pieces and images through reprints. Former Trailblazer editor Jared Mitovich and former Pascack Valley Student Publication editor Rachel Cohen were Pascack Press 2021 summer editorial interns.

Dedication and ʻNew Voicesʼ Rawson told Pascack Press on Dec. 7, “Itʼs fun to help journalism thrive throughout our state, and the awards contests are a big part of that. Itʼs so exciting to see programs on the rise like the one at my sister school, Pascack Hills, being recognized for the fine work that theyʼve been doing.” Speaking of Pascack Valley, he said, “I admire the extreme dedication our journalists demonstrate to produce such impactful content. In particular, the ʻWhatʼs in a Name?ʼ coverage package is one of the most impressive accomplishments Iʼve seen in scholastic journalism, and Iʼm glad the stories in it were frequently recognized.” He said, “Matt Austin has also cemented an impressive legacy here as a photojournalist, and itʼs great that his work received so many honors.” Looking ahead, Rawson and his students and colleagues are championing the stateʼs New Voices bill, which is designed to clarify and protect student journalistsʼ First Amendment rights. (The Student Press Law Center notes that New Voices is a studentpowered nonpartisan grassroots movement who want schools and colleges to be more welcoming places for student voices.) Rawson said the measure will protect teachers and advisers from retaliation over stories published by students — and that it received a “conditional veto” from Gov. Phil Murphy in November. “Our advocacy team, led by Tom McHale (a teacher at Hunterdon Central Regional High

IT’S FUN TO HELP JOURNALISM THRIVE throughout our state, and the awards contests are a big part of that. It’s so exciting to see programs on the rise…” — Bill Rawson, president of Garden State Scholastic Press Association; Pascack Valley High School English teacher/journalism advisor

“

School), John Tagliareni (a retired journalism teacher at Bergenfield High School), and Hillary Davis of the non-profit Student Press Law Center based in Washington,

D.C., viewed this as a very positive sign — basically the governor was only asking that we make three tweaks to the bill, and they viewed these adjustments as very

minor. The amended bill then passed through the NJ Senate by a 35-1 vote Thursday, Dec. 2.” Rawson said, “Weʼre optimistic it will be passed through the state Assembly and be back on Murphyʼs desk to be signed into law over the course of the next few weeks.” He added, “Itʼs hard to put into words how exciting a moment this would be for scholastic journalism in our state, which will become the 15th in the country to adopt some version of New Voices legislation.”

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DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Awards: Local student journalists shine in contest

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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Winter safety tips: • Have your heating system checked by a professional before operating, particularly if you experienced flooding recently. An overheated boiler or furnace can lead to injury and/or explosion. • Chimneys and vents for gas appliances must be cleared following a major snow or ice storm to enable proper venting and prevent carbon monoxide accumulation.

• Make sure that snow does not block exhaust from a sidewall vent; otherwise, it could shut down or block heating equipment and dryer exhaust, allowing fumes containing carbon monoxide to build up. • Accumulation of ice or snow can interfere with the proper operation of your gas metering system. The meter assembly may contain a regulator that is designed to safely release pressurized gas in the event of a malfunction. Blocking the regulator vent could create an unsafe condition where gas is not able to escape from internal piping. • Snow and ice can damage gas meters and piping. Be careful when removing snow from around the gas meter; any damage to the gas meter could potentially create a possible leak hazard. • Use a broom to keep the gas meter, pressure regulator, and vent piping clear of snow and ice during the winter season. • Chimneys and vents should be protected using an approved cap or screen to keep small animals or insects from entering. These pests have been known to build nests inside chimneys or vents and can cause potentially hazardous conditions. • Inspect and clean dryer vents to ensure they are clear of debris, lint and condensation, which can become a fire hazard especially in the winter when drying heavier clothing and bedding. • Do not store propane tanks or any other highly flammable gas/liq-

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uid in your home, as they can become extremely hazardous in the event of a fire. • If you smell a gas odor outside, please call 1-800-880-7734 (PSEG) from a neighbor's home and remain outside until PSE&G arrives. • Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Stay at least 30 feet away from downed wires, and donʼt go near the pole or anything touching the line. Immediately contact PSE&G, at 1-800-436PSEG (7734) via mobile app or our website, to report downed wires and dial 911 if an immediate hazard exists. • Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed electrical wires. Don't drive over – and don't stand near – downed wires. • Downed wires can potentially be hidden in standing water. If you encounter large pools of standing water, stop, back up and choose another path. • To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, do not run any gasolinepowered generators in a garage or any other enclosed space. If you are on life-sustaining medical equipment, ensure that you alert PSE&G in advance and notify your local police and fire departments. For more information, visit pseg.com/life.

Winter energy savings tips to lower your bill: • Lower your thermostat: Home heating is the largest user of energy and offers the greatest opportunity for savings. Lowering the thermostat by just one degree can reduce your heating bill by up to 3%. • Use your blinds: Open your curtains and blinds that face the sun on sunny days to warm your home, and close them at night to keep the warm air inside. • Check your heating system: Check for sufficient water levels in the sight glass for steam heating systems to ensure maximum efficiency. Replace the filter on your warm air furnace heating system. Remove any debris around your heating system. • Caulk out the cold:caulk gaps in window and door frames and add insulation to reduce heating costs. Customers should prepare, be cautious and stay alert to their surroundings during and after storms. Review storm preparation tips at https://nj.pseg.com/safetyandreliability/stormsafety.

PASCACK VALLEY

Historically low interest rates have made now a good time to be a homeowner. According to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, also known as Freddie Mac, the average interest rate on a 30year fixed-rate mortgage in midSeptember 2021 was 2.86. Just 10 years earlier, the average rate was 4.09. Thatʼs a significant dip, and one thatʼs saving todayʼs homeowners tens of thousands of dollars over the life of their mortgages. Interest rates dipped during the pandemic and have remained low ever since. Thatʼs unlikely to last forever, which has given many homeowners a sense of urgency regarding refinancing. Refinancing can be financially advantageous, but there are some things homeowners should know prior to contacting their lenders. REFINANCING DOES NOT ALWAYS SAVE MONEY OVER THE LONG HAUL Itʼs hard to blame homeowners who jump at the chance to refinance their mortgages. Refinancing is often associated with significantly lower monthly payments, and such savings can be used to finance home improvements, pay for tuition or build retirement nest eggs. However, homeowners wonʼt necessarily save money over the long haul if theyʼre refinancing an existing 30-year mortgage with another 30-year mortgage. The mortage experts at Mortgage Calculator note that a Change Terms mortgage refinance is characterized by a shift to a loan charging a lower interest rate. The initial savings with such a refinance are undeniable, but changing from one 30-year to another 30-year restarts the mortgage clock, which can add years to the time homeowners will be repaying their debt. As a result, homeowners may end up paying more interest over time than they

Get the Results Get the results you’re looking for in the Service Directory in Pascack Valley Press. To place your service ad, please call 201.664.2105

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might have had they just kept their initial mortgage. Homeowners interested in a Change Terms refinance may want to look into switching from a 30year to a 15-year mortgage. A shorter term mortgage will increase the monthly payment, but the loan will reach maturity much faster, greatly reducing the amount of interest homeowners will pay over the life of the mortgage.

REFINANCING CAN BE COSTLY Lower monthly payments might be the number that catches homeownersʼ eyes as they look to refinance, but itʼs important that homeowners recognize that refinancing is not free. In fact, the personal finance experts at Kiplinger note that refinancing incurs many of the same costs that homeowners had to pay

when they signed their initial mortgage papers. That includes fees, taxes and appraisal costs. These costs are sometimes paid up front, but they also might be rolled into the loan balance. In the latter instance, homeowners could be paying interest on their refinancing costs. Homeowners who are refinancing solely because of lower interest rates should know that some lenders raise interest rates to compensate for refinancing costs. That can negate the savings and end up costing homeowners more money than the original mortgage. Refinancing is an option for homeowners who want to save money. Homeowners can speak with a financial advisor to determine if this is the best way to save money over the long haul or if refi- Refinancing can be financially advantageous, but there are nancing will ultimately cost them some things you should know before you reach out to more over the life of the mortgage. lenders.

PHASE 2 NOW OPEN & TAKING DEPOSITS! 55 PLUS COMMUNITY.

HOUSE TOURS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.

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DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT REFINANCING A MORTGAGE

REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Eagle Scout candidate Jacob Denekamp of Emerson recently installed two handsome picnic tables fitted with checker/chess boards along with game pieces that he built as his Eagle Scout project at Rosengart (Sunset) Park. Thatʼs according to Mayor Danielle DiPaola, who added her thanks and congratulations. She said members of Jakeʼs Troop 350 of Westwood were there to lend a hand. And she noted Jakeʼs parents generously provided an array of refreshments to enjoy with friends and family who came to

celebrate his achievement “and to participate in his presentation of these truly generous gifts.We look forward to celebrating you at your Eagle Scout Court in February!”

Emerson Mayor Danielle DiPaola shared photos of Eagle candidate Jacob Denekamp’s improvements to Rosengart Park.

Police, Fire Department aid Brooklyn man in wipeout

HILLSDALE

Police on Dec. 5 at approximately 11:14 p.m. were dispatched to the intersection of Ruckman Road and Piermont Avenue for a car motor vehicle accident, where the vehicle had left the roadway. Upon arrival, patrol officers located a vehicle off the roadway into a brook. Officers dispatched the Hillsdale Fire Department and an ambulance to assist officers with the removal of the sole occupant of the vehicle. An accident investigation was conducted and determined that the vehicle was driven by a Brooklyn man, 28. The vehicle was traveling

south on Ruckman Road and traveled across Piermont Avenue where it left the roadway and crashed into a brook. The vehicle was removed via a tow truck and the driver was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries. The driver was issued summonses over operating under the influence of liquor or drugs, DWI on school property or within 1,000 feet of a school, driving after license/registration suspended/revoked, driving without a license, disregard stop sign regulation or yield sign, reckless driving, and careless driving.

Car fire, standby call keep units busy

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CALL TODAY ! 201-396-3802 Dec. 7 was a busy day for the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department. It started off with an odor of gas call in the morning — in the afternoon the department was dispatched to a car fire on Old Hook

Road. Firefighters said online, “Engine 1ʼs crew knocked down the fire while engine 1-2ʼs crew helped with overhaul.” That evening the department

was dispatched to stand-by at Emersonʼs firehouse for a working fire in their town. “Engine 1 stoodby while thankfully Emerson fd handled the small fire and were able to extinguish it quickly.”

Give your business the attention it deserves! TO PLACE YOUR AD Call 201.664.2105 fax 201.664.2109 or e-mail us at pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS Emerson scout Jake Denekamp seriously talented

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Van Saun County Park is your destination for winter family fun

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and the Bergen County Board of Commissioners are excited to announce that Van Saun County Park in Paramus will soon become New Jerseyʼs premier destination for winter family fun. Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland is set to make its triumphant return to Van Saun County Park with open air ice skating, a non-ice childrenʼs beginners rink, a heated hospitality tent, games, activities, food trucks, an indoor/outdoor beer and wine garden, carousel rides, and rides on the Bergen County Express Train. From the giant tinsel candy canes framing the entrance of the event grounds, to the festive decorations throughout, families will have the chance to be transported to a

winter paradise this holiday season right here in Bergen County. Simultaneously, right across the street, Van Saun County Park will also host the first ever Let It GLOW! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular at the Bergen County Zoo. The spectacular, sponsored by the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc., will feature traditional Chinese lanterns with a modern twist, including dozens of handpainted, larger-than-life structures that celebrate culture, animals, and the warmth of the holidays. With over 30 scenes, each hand-made, artistic wonder is more breathtaking than the last. “Between Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland and the new holiday lantern spectacular, skip the

HELP WANTED

SPECTRUM PHYSICAL THERAPY & ATHLETIC TRAINING, LLC OLD TAPPAN, NJ

Medical Receptionist – Front Desk Physical therapy office in Old Tappan, NJ seeks a Part Time/Full Time Medical Receptionist for busy front desk. Days, evenings, and occasional Saturdays required. Duties include greeting and scheduling patients; answering phones; collecting copayments; verifying and updating insurance; completing insurance authorizations; entering necessary information into computer. Performing related duties as assigned.

Interested candidates, please send resume to: spectrum@spectrumptat.com ONLY RESUMES SENT TO THIS ADDRESS WILL BE CONSIDERED.

Call 201.358.9500 to place your classified ad today!

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HELP WANTED Help Wanted - Snow Removal for single family house in Westwood in January. Please Call 551-206-4614

TEAM PLAYER WANTED

Professional Junk Removal Company seeks an enthusiastic and energetic individual to help join their growing team. Drivers license & transportation required. Call (201) 661-4940 for more details.

Help Wanted Construction helper, Exp. in paving, patio, retaining walls a plus. Salary based on exp. Located in Hillsdale. Call (201) 666-5700.

Journalist

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.

GWB toll this year and head down to Van Saun County Park, New Jerseyʼs premier destination for winter family fun,” Tedesco said in a press release. “This marks the realization of my administrationʼs commitment to better utilize the best park system in the state across all four seasons.” Commissioner Chair Steve Tanelli said the countyʼs parks are the pride of the county government. “I am proud of the expansion of opportunities for our residents to utilize our parks during the winter, and canʼt wait to see families across the county enjoy the magic of Winter Wonderland and this spectacular lantern display.” Catherine Ross, president of the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo, added, “We are beyond excited to sponsor this unique event. The display is truly magical, and weʼre providing a once-of-a-kind opportunity for families to enjoy the zoo during the winter and create memories that theyʼll cherish for a lifetime.”

Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland Hours of Operation and Upcoming Events Now through January 2 The hours of operation are Fridays, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; and Sundays, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday-Thursdays, the ice

Target Your Market! in the

rink will be open for skating from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Winter Wonderland will have adjusted hours on Christmas Eve (12/24) and New Yearʼs Eve (12/31) and operate 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. From Dec. 2 – Jan. 2, Winter Wonderland will operate 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Winter Wonderland is closed on Christmas. For more information about Winter Wonderland, including online ticket sales and the full 20212022 Event Calendar, visit BergenCountyWinterWonderland.com.

Prices General admission: $15 and an online service fee; seniors, veterans, and active military: $10 + online service fee; Age 3 & under: FREE

Upcoming events • Sunday, Dec. 26 – The Winter Wonderland Kinara Lighting (more info to come) Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland is sponsored by Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, NJ Devils, Field Station: Dinosaurs, Rockland Electric Company, the Bergen County Education Association, Hackensack Meridian Health, TD Bank, and ConnectOne Bank. For sponsorship opportunities, write PBotsolas@co.bergen.nj.us. Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland in partnership with the New Jersey Devils is also proud to host

classifieds

HELP WANTED Help Wanted- Full time line cook needed - very competitive pay, apply in person at The Ridge Diner, Park Ridge NJ or call (201) 391-4242. Ask for Chris.

Help wanted - Cafeteria workers needed in Westwood & Pascack, General workers, Driver and cashiers. 9:30–1:30. Great PT work for local moms. No weekends/ summers off. Call Dawn (201) 664-0880, ext 2142. WANT BUSINESS?

Call (201)664-2105

F/T Landscape help wanted - $16-$23 hr based on EXP. Paid W e e k l y. 4 0 1 k & Employee Match Career Growth Plans Call 201.664.4022.

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 p r e s s g r o u p . n e t

ph 201.358.9500 • fax 201.664.2109 • pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

Help Wanted - Part time Office Manager position available. Bookkeeping experience would be a plus. Contact me via email:luke@ atlasmfgsolutions.com HELP WANTED

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.

CLEANING PERSON WANTED- 2X A MONTH FOR MY HOUSE IN WESTWOOD. $13/HR. MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE & REFS. CALL 201 615 7744 LV MSG. FT LANDSCAPE help needed, EXP perferred, driver lic. preferred, not necessary. Hourly $15 to $22 based on experience. Call or text 201-697-3458

CLEANING SERVICES IF YOU WANT your house clean and smelling fresh, call me, I can help you! Free estimates. Call (201) 515-0357.

HELP WANTED PERMANENT AND SUBSTITUTE CROSSING GUARD POSITIONS - WESTOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT 101 WASHINGTON AVENUE. (201) 6647000 ext. 152. You are off during the summer and all holidays during the school year. Must be able to work in all types of weather. Uniform is provided. Pay is $ 1 7 . 0 0 / h o u r. Applications available at Police Headquarters. Westwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Want Business? Call (201) 664-2105

– HELP WANTED General Contractor seeking motivated professionals with experience andwidespread knowledge of all phases of construction for a full time position. Applicant must have insurance, valid driver's license, excellent communication skills, dependable and be a team player. Salary is commensurate with experience. Interested and qualified candidates please submit resume by email to: Kathleen Shalhoub at: kellygirl1@optonline.net.

Anges Fantastic Cleaning - House (start: $80), apt, office (start: $60); laundry; windows. 845-309-4448. Free estimates. SERVICES YOU NEED

Experienced with references. Polish lady will clean your house, apt. & office. Call Maria for free estimate, 201-478-2236. SERVICES YOU NEED

Cleaning Service - Silva European cleaning service Husband & wife, 35 yrs. exp. Great refs. Homes, office & apts - weekly. Call (973) 7960613 or 1 (973) 779-3328. SERVICES YOU NEED

Tutoring Reading Specialist Tutor, Orton Gillingham Trained, 25yrs. Teaching Exp. All Subjects. Contact Patricia Terrents (201) 724-1588. HOME HEALTH AID HOME HEALTH AIDE — Looking to take care of your loved ones. Loving caring, genuine and competent. Over 19 years experience. References available (201) 993-4748. WANT BUSINESS?

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Learn to Play Hockey this season! Learn to Play is designed to teach your child the fundamentals of ice hockey. On-ice sessions are run by USA Hockey certified coaches as well as New Jersey Devils Alumni and are structured to be both instructional and FUN! Registration includes a full set of CCM hockey equipment. For further details visit www.bergencountywinterwonderland.com/learn-toplay-hockey.

Let It GLOW! A Holiday Lantern Spectacular Hours of Operation Now through Jan. 30, every Thursday to Sunday, 4 to 9 p.m. (closed Christmas).

Prices Adult: $15; Child (3-17): $7.50; Children 2 and under: FREE. Tickets are available for purchase through Eventbrite and for more information, visit friendsofbergencountyzoo.org. Let It Glow is available for corporate events Monday through Wednesday. To inquire about a private, one-of-a-kind event, contact Catherine Ross at cmross@co.bergen.nj.us. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Write Marianne Vella at mvella@co.bergen.nj.us.

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Caregiver seeks position for evenings or overnight. Experienced, with references. Fully vaccinated. Call 201-823-7923. SITUATION WANTED

EXPERIENCED CERTIFIED HEALTH AIDE seeks work for 7p-7a. Please call Bev at (201) 281-9853. SITUATION WANTED

Professional Cleaning Service. Will clean house, office, or apartment. Free estimates. 201-681-6170. SERVICES - CLEANING

A POLISH WOMAN will CLEAN YOUR HOME, apartment, office, etc. Experienced, own transportation, good English. Please call 201-893-2145. FOR SALE FOR THE SEAMSTRESS Brothers LB7000 computerized Sewing/Embroidery machine B/O, over $450. Still in box. Call (914) 5525974. SERVICES YOU NEED

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COMMERCIAL RENT Professional Offices 180 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan – For Rent, $450/month. Call 201768-0218.

A P T. FO R R E N T 1 Bedroom Apt. Leonia, garage, washer & dryer. All utilities paid. Bus conveniently at door step. Call (201) 965-5358 for more information.

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DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

OBITUARIES

tery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Joseph R. Mara, 66, of West- the Emerson Volunteer Fire wood, formerly of Emerson, sud- Department. denly passed away, surrounded by loving family, on Sunday, Nov. Richard J.

Joseph R. MARA

Marie E. BRETT

Marie E. Brett (née Farrissey), 85, of River Vale, formerly of Dumont, passed away on Mon-

Richard J. Pavone, 79, of River Vale passed away on Monday, Nov. 29, 2021.

PAVONE

28, 2021. Joseph is survived by his loving wife Gail (née Herzich); his children, Kimberly, Joseph D. and his wife Amy; three grandchildren, Tyler, Olivia, and Joseph E.; brother Bruce Mara and his wife Patty; brother-in-law Frank Herzich and wife Pat; sister-inlaw Maureen Montany and husband Bob; and sister-in-law Cathy Wimmer and her husband Don. Loving uncle of many nieces and nephews. He was a heat and frost insulator and a member of Local #32 for 41 years. Proud member of the Emerson Volunteer Fire Department for 49 years. He served as chief of the department in 1996 and 1997. Ex-fire official and fire inspector for the Borough of Emerson. He will be greatly missed by all. Funeral Mass was held at Church of the Assumption, Emerson. Interment, Westwood Ceme-

Beloved husband of MaryAnne Pavone. Devoted father of Andrea Velthaus and her husband, Stephen, and Richard A. Pavone and his wife, Carey. Loving grandfather of Matthew, Michael, Lindsay, Dominick, and Julian. Richard was a proud member of the River Vale Volunteer Fire Department. Funeral Mass was held at Church of the Assumption, Emerson. Entombment, Garden of Memories, Township of Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made in Richardʼs name to the River Vale Fire Department Association, 330 Rivervale Road, River Vale, NJ 07675.

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day, Nov. 29, 2021 surrounded by her loving family. Beloved wife of Donald E. Brett for over 60 treasured years. Loving and devoted mom of Donald and Patricia Brett. Treasured aunt of her many loving nieces and nephews, as well as her cherished grandnieces and grandnephews. Marie is predeceased by her sisters, Catherine McCardle and Margaret McGavin, and her brother, Francis Farrissey. She was a graduate of St. Cecilia High School in Englewood where she was a Saints cheerleader and created memories that lasted a lifetime. Marie met the love of her life, Don, while working at The Equitable Life Insurance Company. After having a family, Marie did what she loved best: raise her children. Volunteering at St. Therese School/Parish became a fulltime job and she loved every minute of it. Years later she went back to work at Scholastic, Call Center (where she received an award for her professionalism) and Tenafly Schools. Marieʼs pillar of strength was her strong faith and deep devotion

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Kristofich. Devoted father of Robby and John Kristofich. Loving grandfather of Jonathan, Mary, Gabrielle, Johncarlo, Michael, and Luka. Cherished great-grandfather of Mateo, Michela, and Tomas. A Funeral Mass was held at Our Lady of Good Counsel R.C. Church, Township of Washington.

White Sox baseball stadium, Comiskey Park. When his birthplace was torn down to make way for the new White Sox stadium, Jerry often joked that he was born on second base. He was predeceased by his parents, Jerome “Jerry” Pervinich and Milka (née Elezovich), and his sister, Nikolina Hluchan (née Pervinich). After his father was killed in a construction accident while Jerry and sister, Nikolina, were still quite young, his mother moved the family to West New York, N.J., where Jerry grew up. He graduated from St. Joseph of the Palisades High School and earned a BA in journalism from Fordham University. His career started with the New York Herald Tribune. After serving honorably with the U.S. Navy (initially as a reservist in February 1951 and then on active duty from February 1952 through December 1953), Jerry returned to civilian life, working for the Bergen Record, Paramus Post and Ridgewood News (covering local high school sports, especially football). He also worked for the Equitable Life Insurance Company, Diamond International, the College Boards and Educational Testing Service. He met Marlene Ann Squeri on a blind date. They wed in April 1957 and lived happily in Astoria, Queens, N.Y., until her life was cut short in October 2006. In May 2016 he returned to New Jersey. Although Jerry and Marlene had no children of their own, they had numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and godchildren among their extended family of Squeris, Feccis, Hluchans, Sgombics and Kellys, as well as countless friends and readers who will miss Uncle Jerry dearly. Services were held at St. Andrewʼs Church, Westwood. Burial, Calvary Cemetery in Queens, New York. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrewʼs Food Pantry, 120 Washington Ave., Westwood, NJ 07675.

Jerry F. PERVINICH

Howard D. FEILER

to the Blessed Mother, St. Therese and many other saints. She devoted part of each day to watching daily mass, saying the rosary and praying for those on her prayer list. Marie was well liked by everyone she met and she always looked for the good in each person. Visiting the Jersey Shore for many years brought her joy and peace. Her smile, gentle manner and homemade crumbcake lit up a room. Marie touched many hearts and will never be forgotten. Services were held at St. Therese of Lisieux R.C. Church, Cresskill, followed by entombment at Garden of Memories, Township of Washington. Marieʼs family would greatly appreciate donations in her memory to Villa Marie Claire, 12 West Saddle River Road, Saddle River NJ 07458, or Rosary Hill Home, 600 Linda Ave., Hawthorne, NY 10523.

John F. KRISTOFICH

John F. Kristofich, 87, of the Township of Washington passed away on Friday, Dec. 3, 2021. Beloved husband of Mary

Jerry Fabian Pervinich, 91, of Westwood passed away peacefully on Friday, Nov. 26, 2021. He was born in Chicago, Ill. across the street from the old

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Howard David Feiler, 73, of Montvale, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2021, surrounded by his family, following a twomonth epic battle to recover from a massive heart attack suffered on Sept. 22, 2021. Howard is survived by Margaret, his beloved wife of 49 years; his children, Mandy and Dara Feiler; son-in-law Matthew D. Burns; grandson Maxwell Howard Burns; and brother Fred Feiler. He is predeceased by his mother, Mildred Feiler, and father, Lester Feiler. Howard was born in Manhattan and raised on Long Island. He graduated from Bethpage High School. After his motherʼs passing CONTINUED ON PAGE 47

es.” Tovo brushed off the comment, saying, “Thereʼs no violations there.” DeSena added, “They meet the definition of what our [abandoned properties] ordinance says.” DeSena, who fell short of his election challenge for mayor in November, said he would take Tovo to the homes and show him “2-foot weeds growing out of the gutters. Thereʼs holes in the windows, holes in the roofs that meet the definition of what our ordinance says.” Tovo noted recent problems with residential property maintenance on Linwood Avenue and Adams Place. He said the property violations go on “way too long.” Tovo emphasized most properties DeSena referenced did not fit the abandoned homes ordinance. He noted when maintenance is performed by the DPW to maintain a privately owned property, and the bill remains unpaid, officials prepare a lien on the property to be approved by council. Tovo said so far property owners owing the township for property maintenance work have paid such overdue bills before a property lien was presented to council. “And weʼre largely dealing with the same property owners over and over again,” Tovo said. When council vice president Desserie Morgan wondered what happens when a property owner continues to not maintain property after paying off an overdue bill, Tovo said the process starts over. Tovo said he would contact Bergen County officials to see if they had suggestions on dealing with property owners who continually fail to maintain properties. FROM PAGE 1

At least three houses in the Township of Washington — these are on Pascack Road between Jefferson and Washington avenues, near Seasons Catering — are unoccupied and dilapidated. The placards warn emergency service workers it’s unsafe to enter. (Pascack Press photos taken Dec. 7.)

Intersection upgrades coming In March, the township purchased easements for $158,000 on seven lots adjacent to the Pascack Road–Washington Avenue intersection for county intersection

overhaul. The seven lots were owned by 660 Pascack Realty, whose principal owner is James Kourgelis, owner of Seasons Catering, the venerable catering and event hall nearby. Over the past decade, and most recently in 2013, Kourgelis had been involved with applications to site other ventures adjacent to the nearby Pascack Road–Washington Avenue intersection, where the three vacant, deteriorating homes stand. While traveling via car on Washington Avenue heading east, a Pascack Press reporter observed that at least three of the homes had a large “X” in red and white covering the entryways, several broken windows, and what appeared to be ivy overtaking one entryway. The previously proposed ventures for the corner lots — none of which came to pass — have included a parking lot, a CVS, a Dunkinʼ Donuts, a liquor store, and then townhomes. Kourgelis also reportedly offered to sell the properties back to the township during former Mayor Janet Sobkowiczʼs tenure and was reportedly told the township could not afford to buy them. None of the proposed developments have materialized or been approved.

when he was 18 he accompanied a friend to visit Harper College (later named Binghamton University) in upstate New York, where he later enrolled and received a BA in chemistry. There he hosted a radio show, “The Bovine Pleasure Hour,” blaming the choice of title on the decade (1960s). He continued his professional training at Penn State University where he received his MS in Environmental Pollution Control. He was a member of the National Guard during the Vietnam war and called into active duty to help the community of Wilkes-Barre, Pa. after Hurricane Agnes caused the Susquehanna River to flood in 1972. His career as a licensed professional engineer and certified

PMP spanned over 40 years where he designed, installed, and operated remediation systems encompassing use of a wide variety of environmental cleanup technologies. In retirement he discovered a new talent in woodworking, building countless furniture pieces which are currently in almost every room of his daughterʼs home. He loved classical music, Billy Joel, the Beatles, an occasional cigar, sipping a Manhattan cocktail (with Makerʼs Mark), and the New York Yankees. He was one of the most vocal dads behind the backstop at softball games. In recent years he took great joy in seeing his grandson play T-ball and Little League. Above all else, Howard

Obituaries: FROM PAGE 46

Kourgelis did not return our phone calls and email requests for comment for this story. Under Ordinance 18-20, passed in 2018, the township amended its abandoned property ordinance and authorized the identification of abandoned properties and establishment of an abandoned properties list. It was not clear whether the properties in question met enough specific criteria in the ordinance to qualify as abandoned. Criteria include property not legally occupied for six months that: • Needs rehabilitation and none has taken place for six months; • Saw construction begun and discontinued on the for at least six months; • Had at least one installment of property tax remaining unpaid and delinquent; or • Has been determined to be a nuisance by the property maintenance officer. So-called “nuisance properties” may meet any of five criteria under state law, including property: • Found unfit for human occupancy; • Of condition that increases the risk of fire to itself or neighboring homes;

would likely say, his most important job was that of being a father to his two girls. He never once missed a game, concert, play, lesson, rehearsal, or practice and always encouraged them both to follow their dreams. Some his most treasured moments were shared with them through attending Yankees games, the Photo Plus Expo and shows in New York City. Through his unwavering support, love, and passion it was clear that that being a dad was the most important and treasured job he had. Because of his lifelong love and support of the arts, memorial contributions can be made in Howardʼs name to National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts, youngarts.org, or the National Endowment for the Arts, arts.gov.

• That carries potential health or safety hazards that the owner has failed to remedy; • Has vermin, debris, or physical deterioration creating health and safety hazards the owner has failed to remedy; and • Is dilapidated in its appearance, affecting the economic welfare of residents in proximity to the property and that the owner has failed to remedy. A township abandoned properties list from 2019 — the only year we were told is available — showed three properties listed, including tracts on Chestnut Street, Linwood Avenue, and Fern Street. No updates on the properties were available by press time. According to the ordinance, any owner or in-state creditor who violates any provision of this article or of the rules and regulations issued hereunder shall be subject to a fine of $1,500 for each offense. Every day that a violation continues shall constitute a separate and distinct offense. Fines assessed shall be recoverable from the owner or creditor and shall be a lien on the property as described in state law.

Moreover, the rule notes, any out-of-state creditor who violates any provision of this article or of the rules and regulations issued hereunder shall be subject to a fine of $2,500 for each day a separate violation of this article exists. Fines assessed under this article shall be recoverable from the owner or creditor and shall be a lien on the property. In addition to the Seasons properties, last year several members, including DeSena, had noted a 3.2 acre parcel at 450 Pascack Road — the target of purchase negotiations by the township following its $430,000 offer this summer — included a poorly maintained home, barn and garage, with several members wondering why it was not cited for property maintenance violations. Township officials told Pascack Press that there were no prior property maintenance violations issued to 450ʼs owners. Negotiations that began this summer for 450 Pascack Road are confined to closed council sessions with irregular updates from the mayor, administrator, or town attorney. On Nov. 8, councilman Steven Cascio said he was okay with the township doing property maintenance work as long as the township “does not get stuck with the bill.” Tovo told Cascio that during his tenure the township has been reimbursed for every maintenance bill for work on private property where owners have not maintained the grounds. Tovo said due to tree and property maintenance contractors being busy, upkeep must often wait until the DPW can make the time. “Itʼs very difficult to find anyone to do it.”

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Denis G. GRAMPONE

Denis C. Grampone, 71, of Westwood, formerly of Queens, New York, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021. Denis is survived by his siblings-in-law Rick Sutton and his wife Mary and Patrice Sutton as well as his nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his beloved wife Barbara, his parents Sylvo and Bernardine, and his brother Ralph. Memorial contributions can be made in Denisʼs name to Canine Companions at canine.org/donate.

Arlene J. BURGIS

Arlene J. Margasak Burgis of Park Ridge passed away, at home with her husband and children by her side, on Dec. 2, 2021.

She was born Jan. 13, 1951, in Philadelphia, Pa. to Rosalind and Sidney Margasak. Arlene was passionate about her career as a special education kindergarten teacher in Englewood. She taught education for 25 years teaching kids how to read and write. She also achieved a masterʼs degree in education. She had many friends and is loved by many. She enjoyed her family, friendships, shopping, travel, the shore, reading, painting, movies, music, her cats and rooting for the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles. She is survived by her husband of nearly 10 wonderful years, Charles Davis; her children, Jordan, and Alison Burgis; her stepchildren: Ariel, Danielle and Corey Davis; and her brother, Larry Margasak. A graveside service was held at Beth El Cemetery, Paramus.

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Vacant: Houses near downtown remain unoccupied

DECEMBER 13, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Pascack Press 12.13.21

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OBITUARIES