Pascack Press 2.22.21 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 BEST H O M E TO W N N E W S PA P E R

VOLUME 24 ISSUE 49

EAGLE RISES

PASCACK VALLEY

‘EACH FAMILY HAS A STORY’ Local photographer on pandemicʼs ʻnew rulesʼ

Congratulations to Eagle Scout James Stickel of the Township of Washington. SEE PAGE 17

EMERSON

CONTRACT VEXES ON BLOCK 419

Borough laments ʻzero leverageʼ amid delays

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The borough attorney has called the boroughʼs redevelopment partner “incompetent” and says there are major problems with agreements the previous administration struck with it, including lack of an enforceable timetable for completion. A lack of a deadline and dueling lawsuits have thrown the boroughʼs downtown redevelopment project off track. In addition to being a project that has no timetable for its completion, there is no end date in sight. So reported Borough Attorney John McCann about the Block 419,

See EMERSON on page 254

LIVING ROOM SCENE: Park Ridge’s Julia Chang-Lomonico turns her lens on her family’s pandemic adjustments and discoveries, winning awards in documentary photography.

of monumental changes around the world, photographers in 2020 filled a vital role in creating a visual record of the times. Park Ridge photographer Julia Chang-Lomonico is one of many photographers who have focused their lens on the integral value of family. N A YEAR

FEBRUARY 22, 2021

The artistsʼ work on the subject has been recognized by the leading international photography competition and the only live juried competition of its genre, The Documentary Family Awards (DFA). Exploring universal themes of home and community, relationship, humor and tragedy, the

PHOTO COURTESY JULIA CHANG-LOMONICO

images awarded by the DFA reflect the complexity of daily family life. Chang-Lomonicoʼs work has been selected from thousands of entries and more than 70 countries to join a collection of award-winning photos that

Continued on page 19

VACCINE PROGRESS?

Mayors fight for local clinic; offer rides

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

The mayors of Montvale, Park Ridge, and Woodclif Lake report good news following a call with state officials and the Bergen County health department. Referring to a call on Feb. 11, Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali wrote residents, “In the next two to three weeks more vaccines are coming our way. We addressed the possibility of having a three-town (Park Ridge, Woodcliff Lake and Montvale) combined local site, and that process is in the works right now.” He said, “In the meantime, our Montvale Health Commission is going to be helping residents 65 years of age and older [who] canʼt access the vaccine portal. And those who are homebound and canʼt drive, let us know and we will provide transportation.” Ghassali said, “We need to provide the vaccine to the segment of our population that is most vulnerable and want the vaccine. If you or you know someone who needs this help, please share this information with them.” Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna wrote his constituents of the call, “Many residents have reached out about a local clinic… We have made it clear to state and county health officials that if there is an opportunity, we would be more than willing to provide any infrastructure needed to operate a local clinic.” He said “While, due to supply,

See CLINIC on page 254

SHOW OF LOVE

B ck in time...

GFWC Paskack Junior Woman’s Club sends 3,000-plus valentines to first responders, senior residents, and hospitals throughout the valley.

The ‘old abandoned farmhouse’ where Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School stands had a rich history, dating to a time when the Township of Washington was home to a mere 200 souls.

SEE PAGE 13

SEE PAGE 4

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BMW’S NEARLY $4 MILLION TAX REFUND TO BE PAID OVER FOUR YEARS

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFF LAKE

The Borough Council has unanimously agreed to refund nearly $4 million in commercial taxes to BMW of North America LLC, for the tax years 2009–2012

as part of a settlement that was contested in court and upheld by a state tax court judge. In response to the approval, resident William “Skip” Dolan initiated an online petition Feb. 14 citing a state Division of Taxation investigation that discredits the tax settlement and said the Tax Court judge never ordered Woodcliff Lake to pay the settlement in its 2017 decision. “State of NJ Investigators are unsparing in their findings, many of which are quite disturbing, missing files [BMW only], negligence, tax files left unsecured when they should be under lock and key,” Dolan said in a detailed online letter addressed to residents. “The New Jersey tax court opinion reflects that the Borough of Woodcliff Lakeʼs Mayor &

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Council acted soundly and reasonably in its property tax appeal settlement with BMW. Mr. Dolanʼs challenge was dismissed with prejudice. This Court judgment is important to the Woodcliff Lake taxpayers, because it provided tax appeal valuation certainty moving forward and eliminates the cost and uncertainty of litigation. Mayor Carlos Rendo and the Council should be complimented. This is the way government should function reflecting fundamental fairness to all,” special redevelopment counsel Kenneth Porro wrote Pascack Press. In a resolution on Feb. 8, the council agreed the payments will be made by the borough over a four-year period, with no interest charged. BMW of North America, at 200 Chestnut Ridge Road, comprises a major corporate presence in the borough. The BMW facility, opened in 2008, includes a 220,000-square-foot campus and employs 40–50 associates who help to manage 97 automotive dealerships, plus satellite stores for an Eastern region that covers 11 states from Vermont to Virginia, according to BMW. Although some residents had alleged missing tax files make the

off the $1 million due by March, and more funds will likely be put aside in the 2021 budget for the next payment due March 1, 2022. Resident Alex Couto questioned how much in annual taxes BMW pays. Administrator Tom Padilla said tax records are public information available via the borough website and said he would get an answer for Couto. Mayor Carlos Rendo noted that BMW “pays a considerable amount of money in taxes to our borough and without an impact to our school system.” On Feb. 7, resident Skip Dolan wrote Pascack Press to question the basis for the settlement due to alleged missing files. He said residents should be aware of the councilʼs rush to pay off BMW despite the alleged missing records. Dolan said “both the Special Tax Appeal Counsel, Mr. Porro and the Tax Assessor, Mr. Anzevino acknowledged separately to a Tax Appeals Judge and a NJ State Investigator in 2019, the BMW files predating 2015 do not exist, they were lost over six years ago,” he charged. “Resolution 21-51 (authorizing tax refunds) should be opposed until there is a full investigation of the Council into the missing BWM tax assessor files… Those BMW files now missing (six years) would have provided the basis for the $3,950,000 tax appeal settlement with BMW,” wrote Dolan. “This is why you are being asked to oppose Resolution 21-51, this is not good government and it will raise your taxes.” Dolan did not comment dur-

refund payments suspect, few concerns were raised by council about the settlement. Moreover, the settlement payouts were vouched for and approved by the borough tax counsel, tax assessor, and appraisal expert, said the resolution. Councilman Craig Marson was concerned that the resolution did not state the specific amounts being refunded for each tax year. Four other tax years that were originally contested by BMW— 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2013— were withdrawn or dismissed as per the 2014 resolution passed by the Borough Council. The refund settlement resolution states the borough must pay BMW $1 million for tax year 2009 by March 1, 2021; $1 million for tax year 2010 by March 1, 2022; $1 million for tax year 2011 by March 1, 2023; and $950,000 for tax year 2012 by March 1, 2024. The resolution did not indicate what funds would be used for the refunds. Efforts to determine funding sources were not returned by press time. Borough Administrator Tom Padilla told Pascack Press later that the borough has about $1.9 million in reserves that will pay

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACK REGIONAL

Students representing both Pascack Valley Regional high schools might present their final school mascot options—selected by each schoolʼs students and faculty—at the Feb. 22 district board meeting. Paul Zeller, district spokesman and director of technology and communication, said whether it is at that meeting “or another in the future, the students will ultimately present their final recommendations, one recommendation for each school, to the board.” He said, “The board will not take a vote at the meeting; students make their recommendation. The board will listen to the studentsʼ recommendation, whenever

they have it ready, with the intention of voting on the recommendation at the following meeting.” Students and faculty at both schools will vote on a final mascot choice. Following that selection, a similar school-wide selection process to approve an image for the mascot will be undertaken. The final mascot choice for each school must receive a majority of votes from students and faculty, said student representatives at the Feb. 8 district board meeting. If one of three final choices presented for the final vote does not receive a majority, a runoff will be held between the top two vote-getters, they said. In mid-February, reported PV Student Publication quoting committee student representative Delia Collis and student representative Vasili Karalewich, the Pascack Valley mascot committee had narrowed its choices to three mas-

cots but held off on revealing the final selections. “The mascot nicknames will be sent to the administration before the student body can vote on its favorite mascot nickname, according to Karalewich,” the news outlet said. “Weʼre going to send [the nicknames] to the administration to be vetted first,” Karalewich said. “Then, if any of them are flagged, we do have backups or the next best name that we picked [to present], but if [none are flagged] then we should be good to go.” Trustees heard updates Feb. 8 from Mascot Committee student leaders Alexa Sipos and Jacob Levin at Pascack Hills, and Collis and Karalewich of Pascack Valley. Levin said the schoolʼs committee generated 38 mascot options, which then was narrowed to 10 following a committee poll.

At its third meeting, the committee narrowed the options to five, and slides were prepared that listed a mascot definition, rationale, and possible graphics. He said the committee emphasized each mascot “having an accompanying rationale” and noted committee members had “meaningful and genuine conversations, which I believe will continue to occur.”

He said the committee was focused on offering three mascot choices for a school-wide vote. Sipos said the committee will soon determine a time frame for a school-wide vote on three top mascot choices. A brief slideshow will be sent to students to inform them why each mascot might be “reasonable and appropriate,” and give students and CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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MONTVALE

Borough clicks with road salt suppliers

Mayor Michael Ghassali wrote residents Feb. 16 that the borough “lucked out” with warmer temperature and a forecast ice storm missing us. Better news: “As for the road salt situation, since my last email and the news of salt shortage getting picked up by the local media and Channel 12 News, we received several contacts of sources offering salt to us, and I am happy to report that we were able to acquire more salt sufficient for future storms,” he said. He lauded Assemblywoman

Holly Schepisi and DPW Superintendent Rich Campanelli. On Valentineʼs Day, Ghassali noted ice storms inbound, and said, “We were notified by the county to conserve roadway rock salt usage and that we will not be getting any salt delivery for a few weeks.” He said, “The winter storms of Jan. 31 through Feb. 3 have put limitations of the amount of salt that can be shipped daily out of the port thus limiting the volume of daily deliveries available.” Ghassali said Montvale typi-

cally uses 150–200 tons of salt during a snowstorm and that every salt truck holds 25 tons. “Our salt shed currently has about 150 tons of salt. We have enough salt for this week and we are expecting to pick up salt as soon as supply becomes available,” he said. Ghassali also reminded residents that DPW crews face the same road hazards and demands during storms the rest of us do, and need breaks, and asked for courtesy “They work hard and deserve an acknowledgment.”

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FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

MASCOT DECISIONS NEAR FINAL VOTES AT PASCACK VALLEY REGIONAL DISTRICT

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Discover local history at museum The Pascack Historical Society, 19 Ridge Ave. in Park Ridge, invites members of the public to stop by its museum any Sunday from 1–4 p.m. Admission is free. Face masks are required. The museum is home to thousands of objects, artifacts, and ephemera that chronicle life in the Pascack Valley from the Lenape Indian days until the present. Visitors will discover a special section devoted to colonial artifacts, relics from the production of wampum in the Pascack Valley, rooms recreated to illustrate early 19th century and Victorian life, a collection of Lenape stone tools, and more.

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS The museum has varied volunteer opportunities for those who take an interest in history and want to give back to the community. (Note: You must be a PHS member to become a volunteer.) • Docent: Lead public and private museum tours. • Treasurer assistant: Ideal for a small business owner who knows QuickBooks and wants to help manage PHS finances. • Textiles Department: A person with some knowledge of antique garments is needed to help hand sew, mend, and preserve PHSʼ textiles collection. • Education: Help develop and deliver educational programs for kids and adults. • House and Grounds: “Handyperson” to help maintain PHSʼ 1873 building with light repairs, painting, and carpentry. Volunteer applications are available by clicking the “Get Involved” button at pascackhistoricalsociety.org, or stop by the museum any Sunday from 1–4 p.m. for more information.

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B ck in time...

BUILT BY THE WESTERVELTS, this 19th century farmhouse on Ridgewood Road in the Township of Washington stood at the present site of Westwood Regional High School. When this photo was taken around 1920, approximately 200 people lived in the township.

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

HE WESTERVELT FAMILY owned an approximately 80-acre tract on Ridgewood Road during the 19th century. Ridgewood Road was an unpaved country lane, the area was mostly farmland and swamps extending from the Musquapsink Brook, and the Township of Washington comprised the entire region now known as the Pascack Valley. The Dutch Colonial farmhouse shown above was built on the Westervelt land sometime around the mid1800s. The house is shown as it looked in the 1920s when the Ochs family owned it. By the late 1950s the Westwood–Washington Township Consolidated Board of Education, as it was known then, was eyeing 58 acres of undeveloped land along Ridgewood Road as the site of a regional high school. Due to a mid-century population boom, the student body had outgrown the existing high school in Westwood. In Washington Township alone, the population of 1,208 in 1950 had exploded to 6,654 in 1960. Voters approved a school expansion referendum on Dec. 9, 1959. The new building site included what reports referred to as “an old abandoned farmhouse.” In April 1960, a fire of unknown origin broke out at the farmhouse. As it was set to be replaced anyhow, the structure was allowed to burn to the ground. The remaining rubble was leveled in order to fill in the houseʼs basement. The present-day Westwood Regional High School was built on the site, opening in 1964.

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

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

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

Has the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir Nature Trail been approved? That depends on whom you ask. A state environmental protection agency spokesman said that in April 2019 the stateʼs Watershed Property Review Board approved—with five conditions— the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir Nature Trail proposed by Suez Water and three adjacent towns. This DEP assertion conflicts with a statement issued by Suez to Pascack Press in late January, noting the review process was still ongoing before the watershed review board. While a Suez spokeswoman said the trailʼs review was yet to be concluded by the state watershed board, NJDEP spokesman Larry Hajna said the trail was approved by the board by letter to Suezʼs attorney on April 3, 2019 and no more reviews were required. “[State] staff is assisting Suez in complying with conditions in the attached letter. No further reviews of this project or additional WPRB approvals are

pending at this time,” Hajna told Pascack Press Feb. 10 Pascack Press reached out to Suez to clarify what reviews might still be necessary to, as their statement says, “conclude their [WPRB] review of the plan this year.” Debra Vial, Suezʼs spokesperson, told us on Feb. 16 that “When the Watershed Review Board weighed in on the proposal, it provided a list of conditions that SUEZ and the municipalities must meet before the path can open. One of those conditions included a conservation easement and, shortly thereafter, the state asked SUEZ to finalize five other easements as well.” She said, “That process continues and we will review these easements with the state. All conservation easements must be carefully examined because the properties in the watershed are essential to protecting the water supply that serves more than 860,000 residents in Bergen and Hudson counties.” Vial added, “The Watershed Review Board also set other conditions, including the installation of security cameras, signage and fencing. Some of those conditions must be met by the municipalities before the path can be opened.

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Suez, NJDEP at odds on reservoir trail approval

The municipalities must also sign and return the agreement.” Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo, who chastised Suez for its trail delays, has said repeatedly in 2021 that the walking trail around the reservoir should be a reality soon. He recently told council members that he foresees the trail opening soon. He said the borough was continuing to work with Suez and nearby Hillsdale and Park Ridge. After borough administrators from Woodcliff Lake and Park Ridge were told by Suez this year that the trails were not likely soon, Rendo called that response unacceptable. “I encourage everyone to attend the ribbon opening of the trails. Hopefully we could see the fruition of our labor and that is coming up soon,” he said. Efforts to create a trail around the reservoir began nearly a decade ago, spearheaded by Woodcliff Lake and Park Ridge. While Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake received $15,000 grants to improve pathways for the 1.5mile-long hiking trail. Hillsdaleʼs grant was rescinded due to a technicality. The borough is reapplying this year, said Mayor John

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FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

SECOND TRY FOR APARTMENTS AT 188 BROADWAY; ZBA MEETS FEB. 23 BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFF LAKE

A developer whose previous application at 188 Broadway was rejected will appear before the ZBA on Tuesday, Feb. 23 with a similar proposal for a two building complex with 60 apartment units. Zoning Board Secretary Meg Smith told Pascack Press Feb. 18 that residents can find the new application posted on the borough website, wclnj.com, by clicking on the following tabs: Departments, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Application Information, 188 Broadway. Following the Zoning Boardʼs July 2019 rejection, 188 Broadway LLP appealed the denial via a lawsuit now before

Superior Court Judge Gregg Padovano. Recently, Borough Attorney John Schettino said the outcome of that lawsuit is unlikely to affect the current preliminary and final site plan application submitted to the Zoning Board. “This pandemic has dramatically changed how the world operates and drastically reduced the demand for and utility of office space,” states the application. It adds, “As more workers have adapted and begun to work remotely as a result of the pandemic, office uses have become even more obsolete, resulting in an increase in vacant, dilapidated office buildings.” It notes economic inutility is a special reason for a land use variance, which is being applied for due to the siteʼs Special Office

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(SO) zoning. “Further, as a result of the pandemic, there has been a significant demand for housing outside of New York City,” states the application. It says Woodcliff Lake lacks enough housing to accommodate demand. Taken together, demand for use and site suitability constitute a special reason for a land-use variance, states the proposal. Asked her views on the new proposal, Veronica Appelle, a member of SHINE, a local citizens group opposed to overdevelopment and high-density housing, told Pascack Press, “The Covid-19 rationale is that now many people will be working from home and not need to rent office space. When [the applicant] purchased the building

there were businesses renting there.” She said, “They eliminated them and never had any intention of making that anything but rental apartments and they must have had some inside track because Woodcliff Lake is not zoned for rental apartments.” Paul Kaufman, an attorney from Kaufman, Semeraro, and Leibman, and part owner of 188 Broadway LLP with Rich LaBarbiera, said that the site is “a perfect residential site because itʼs right across the street from a train station.” He said there is no market for office space and the site would not be a good retail location, as most people now are shopping online. He said the only prior tenant in the office building,

its owner, was moving out when they purchased the site. The proposal notes the new application resolves issues raised by the fire department, board planner and board engineer, cited in the boardʼs 2019 resolution of denial. The Zoning Board had cited high density, traffic, current zoning for office space, and quality of life concerns in rejecting the original application. The applicant requests a use variance for multi-family housing in the zone; a bulk variance for an additional half-story for Building 2ʼs three stories where 2.5 are allowed; and a variance for interior parking landscaping. The applicant also seeks three waivers from site plan requirements.

Ruocco. Meanwhile, the April 3, 2019 WPRB letter approves the trail use. “Board staff reviewed the License Agreement and determined that the proposed nature trail is a use which is consistent with the purposes of the Act. Schedule F, referenced in Section 6C of the 2009 Settlement Agreement, identifies acceptable uses of watershed property, and includes such uses as nature trails and walks. Board Staff reviewed their findings with the Board at its April 2, 2019 meeting and the,

Board approved the License Agreement as being consistent with the Act,” the letter reads in part. It also spells out the five conditions that must be met, including a program summary after the two-year pilot program ends and annual reviews each year thereafter; a prohibition on widening the trail; adherence to all DEP conditions of its Oct. 24, 2018 approval letter; a conservation easement on a small Park Ridge lot to DEP; and notification to NJDEP and watershed board if any facilities are proposed within trail property.

Late January, Suez told us it was “unsure” when a trail would materialize, partly due to the WPRB (which told us no further reviews are necessary) plus the impacts of the pandemic. “We have been diligently working with the state and the boroughs on a plan that would allow residents to enjoy the walking path and that plan is currently under review by the New Jersey Watershed Review Board. Itʼs up to the state to examine and approve any use of this land and it is a responsibility they, and we, take very seriously,” Suez spokeswoman Debra Vial said.

Trail: Suez, NJDEP at odds FROM PAGE 5

PASCACK VALLEY

Gottheimer Announces ALYSSA Act on school safety FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) joined the parents of Alyssa Alhadeff—a Woodcliff Lake native who lost her life in the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., in 2018, three years ago last weekend—to announce the bipartisan Alyssa's Legacy Youth in School Safety Alert Act (the ALYSSA Act). The ALYSSA Act is bipartisan federal legislation to require silent panic alarms in all schools to immediately alert law enforcement of an active shooter situation. The bill will also increase investment in more well-trained School Resource Officers, to help protect students and faculty. The Alhadeff family originally lived in Woodcliff Lake, in the Fifth Congressional District, before moving to Parkland. “We are here today to honor Alyssa and turn her memory, and the pain her family and friends carry every day, into action. We are here to announce bipartisan legislation—the ALYSSA Act—to help protect children, like Alyssa, and all students, in the one public place they should feel safest: their schools,” said Gottheimer. He added, “Together, with silent alarms in every school directly connected to local law enforcement agencies and with School Resource Officers at more schools around the country, we are taking concrete steps to help further protect our children in their schools.” Lori Alhadeff, the mother of Alyssa Alhadeff and co-founder of Make Our Schools Safe, said “In a life threatening emergency situation, seconds count. The ALYSSA Act will save lives by empowering our teachers to push a button that is directly linked to law enforcement. The ALYSSA Act needs to be an equitable, standard level of school safety protection in every school around the country. This is a movement and together we will Make Our Schools Safe!” Bergen County Education Association President Sue McBride said, “The members of the Bergen County Education Association wholeheartedly thank Congressman Gottheimer for taking the lead in Washington on an issue that is so critical to the safety of our students and our school employees.” She added, “These silent alarms will assuredly save lives. We are proud to stand with him, offering our full support.” Gottheimer and the Alhadeffs made the announcement together on Feb. 12, with McBride, and Woodcliff Lake Councilmembers Jacqueline Gadaleta and Josephine Higgins. In February 2019, the State of New Jersey signed legislation into law—championed by the Alhad-

ANNOUNCING LEGISLATION: Lori Alhadeff, mother of Parkland, Fla., school shooting victim Alyssa Alhadeff, speaks at Rep. Josh Gottheimer’s Feb. 12 announcement on school safety. Alyssa, who had lived in Woodcliff Lake, leaves a legacy.

effs—to require all New Jersey public schools to install silent panic alarms that can be activated in case of an active-shooter situation. The announcement of the ALYSSA Act will bring that requirement to all 98,000 public schools nationwide, and will cut federal red-tape to create specially-designated investment in bringing trained School Resource Officers to more schools. According to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics, only 29% of schools report using silent alarms that are directly connected to local law enforcement. The bipartisan ALYSSA Act includes the following provisions:

Silent Panic Alarms This bill will bring the same requirements enshrined in New Jerseyʼs Alyssaʼs Law to all public schools nationwide. There are more than 98,000 public schools in the United States and, under this legislation, all that receive federal funding under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) will be required to install silent alarms, which can average $1,000 per school. These silent alarms are utilized by schools in the case of an emergency such as a lockdown or active-shooter situation. When activated, the alarms remain silent in the building and alert local law enforcement to the emergency via a signal or message.

School Resource Officers Going a step further, this bill will also ensure every school has access to School Resource Officers (SROs). Currently, grants for SROs are available under the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program. However, there is no guaranteed funding stream to bring SROs to every school

Club News? Let us promote your organization.

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

nationwide. This legislation will cut federal red-tape to provide for specially-designated investment in

bringing trained SROs to all schools, without having to meet additional complicated and changing standards from the U.S.

Department of Justice. See related feature, “Arielle and Alyssa: Holding on to each other forever,” on page 11.

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‘Why are dental implants so expensive?’

The market range for dental implant pricing is approximately $1800–$2400. It has a wide range because it is based on PRIYU GUPTA, DDS, two very WESTWOOD important facPERIODONTICS tors: the quality of the product and the expertise of the doctor. In terms of quality of the dental implant product: There are sev-

eral well-established dental implant brands who have extensively researched their products with decades of clinical trials. They have proven their product can last decades, likely for the rest of your life, with an over 95% success rate. Unfortunately, there are dental implant companies selling implants to U.S. based dentists who have NOT shown any clinical trials on their product. Thatʼs right, they have not shown even one trial that their products are as effective as the leading benchmark

companies. The FDA allows these “knock off” brands to come to market, itʼs completely legal, and I feel the public should know. Even many dentists, who may not be experts within the dental implant field, feel that most, if not all, dental implants brands are equal, but it is just not the case. Therefore, in terms of value, there are proven products vs. the economical unproven products. The proven products run 400% to 600% higher in cost which in turn is reflected in the price of the procedure.

Leave it to the Specialists for your dental implants!

The preliminary clinical studies on dental implants completed in the 1970s and ’80s prove dental implants can last you the rest of your life. But these studies were designed to have periodontal surgeons providing the surgeries and the follow-ups. Studies published by the ADA found a 30% increase in complications when a general dentist does the implant surgery. If you choose to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant, it is important to do your research and choose the doctor with the most expertise in the field because itʼs the placement of the implant is by far the most important step. A periodontist has three years of additional education and training after dental school. We learn the academic and clinical approach to implant dentistry. We are taught the history and current clinical literature of dental implants and its affect on the sur-

rounding dentition. Therefore, we are the best trained surgeons for this work versus general dentists and oral surgeons. Also, periodontists have a very strong dental hygiene portion to their practice which has a focus on gum disease and dental implant maintenance, unlike the oral surgeons. This is the reason the ADA classifies only periodontists as “dental implant surgeons.” To some, a dental implant is just putting a screw within the dental bone. To me, as I care for thousands of implants placed recently and/or for 30+ years, itʼs an art and should be practiced in a conservative fashion and have close follow-up in order to achieve the lifelong results.

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

PARK RIDGE

Connect with Our Lady of Mercy Church

“In this challenging time of social isolation, distancing, and restriction on gatherings, Our Lady of Mercy Church in Park Ridge has endeavored to stay in touch with its parishoners. “Under the spiritual guidance of our new administrator, Fr. Vincent DʼAgostino, several opportunities to worship and grow in faith are offered. “With Lent fast approaching, thereʼs never been a better time to learn whatʼs available.” Thatʼs according to OLM in an invitation directing readers to urolm.orgm which “provides an opportunity to register to attend daily and Sunday Masses in person or to view it online. The Sunday Mass is also broadcast on

PKRG, channel 77 on optimum or channel 22 on Verizon, every Sunday at 10 a.m.” OLM adds that the website contains information on events, the weekly bulletin, a newsletter, a video library, a link to Our Lady of Mercy Academy, weekly messages from Fr. Vincent, and more. The church also invites readers to follow it on Facebook at Our Lady of Mercy Church, Park Ridge. OLM encourages all parishoners to update their contact information and email addresses, either through the website or by contacting the Rectory at (201) 391-5315. Parish news is shared through the website, Facebook, and email messages.

WESTWOOD

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Organizers of the St. Andrewʼs 50-Plus Club (Westwood) regretfully announce that due to the pandemic, the club still does not have permission to schedule in-person monthly meetings. Meetings would normally have started back up in September. “We certainly will advise everyone when our meetings may be resumed,” they write. “Looking forward to seeing everyone soon.”

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Reduce the density. Reduce the height. Keep it age-restricted to 55 and over—and by all means, keep the publicly accessible walking trail in the plans. That was the parting advice that Planning Board Chair John DePinto and Mayor Michael Ghassali, a board member, offered Feb. 16 to Waypoint Residential Servicesʼ attorney Peter Wolfson to think over before the applicantʼs next public hearing, March 16. Both DePinto and Ghassali had offered similar counsel at a Jan. 5 hearing when referring to the proposed 157-unit active-adult senior complex proposed for 127 Summit Ave. Over a year of hearings, delayed by covid and remote sessions, Waypoint Residential Servicesʼ initial 170-unit active-adult

senior complex had been reduced to a 157-unit senior living complex. The applicant appeared for about 75 minutes Feb. 16 at the end of a long Planning Board agenda, wrapping up at 11:15 p.m. But before the meeting ended, DePinto told Wolfson to review the chart created by board planner Darlene Green that summarized the 11 variances that Green contends the application requires and see what can be done. DePinto said “If we lessen density then weʼll lessen the severity” of the development, and urged Wolfson to explore with Priess ways to reduce the variances, and assorted waivers, being requested. He said his concern was “overall density.” Earlier this year, planners voted unanimously against requiring a “D” or use variance of the applicant after a challenge by nearby Summit Ridge Condomini-

um Associationʼs attorney Peter Kurshan. Ghassali said he had spoken out “consistently” against the proposalʼs high density, building height and parking. He said he “loved” the age-restricted 55 and over aspect and the proposed public walking trail. He told Wolfson “the density is higher than what we need there, the height is an issue. These two will take care of the parking.” After DePinto cast a deciding vote to require the applicant to conduct a full tree count on the site versus a small plot sampling, he remarked. “If there could be a reduction in density, [I] may have a different position on the tree sampling.” Much of Waypointʼs time was taken up with DePinto, Wolfson, Board Attorney Robert Regan and Secretary Lorraine Hutter crosschecking what memos, review letters, and professional analyses had been marked into evidence over

WESTWOOD

Rec department seeks input on parks

The Recreation Department wants to hear from local residents. Anyone with new ideas regarding updates and improvements to park facilities is invited to fill out the 2021 park facilities questionnaire at westwoodnj.gov/179/recreation. The break in regular programming due to the pandemic restrictions has allowed the department to upgrade park and recreation facilities including new benches, bleachers, renovated basketball courts, new lighting and new playground equipment around town.

Proposed goals for 2021 include a new exercise circuit in Westvale Park, a bocce ball court in McKinley Park; and new playground equipment at Brookside Park. The department is also considering the installation of a new covered pavilion at Brookside Park in either 2021 or 2022. For a review of offerings at the community parks, visit westwoodnj.gov/194/parks. “We are excited to learn about the new types of facilities or improvements Westwood residents

are interested in adding to our community parks,” said director Gary Buchheister. “For instance, the bocce ball court planned for McKinley Park was suggested by our ForeverYoung participants. It was such a great idea that weʼve decided to add it.” Buchheister said he expects to receive many excellent suggestions that will garner serious consideration as he works on short- and longterm facilities improvements. For more information, write gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov.

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the applicationʼs year-long hearing schedule. Hipolit suggested Feb. 16 that Summit Ridge Condominium Association consider working with Suez, the borough and Waypoint Residential Services to interconnect their water supply lines between the new complex and the nearby Summit Ridge, to help boost water pressure to the eastern side of Summit Ridge. This could help in case of a future firefighting need, as well as solve a low-water pressure problem that has existed for years, said Hipolit. Hipolit told DePinto that connecting the two water systems is “the smarter thing to do” and that that would make Suez responsible for maintaining the water supply mains to both complexes. Waypoint had proposed its own pump station to maintain water pressure. He said Suez was the “ultimate approver” of such an interconnection. The 28.4-acre lot is within the A-6 Affordable Housing District, and the proposal includes 24 onebedroom affordable units. Based on board comments, the applicant reduced its total building size to about 287,800 square feet with an 85,935-square-foot footprint. The applicant proposes 186

covered parking spaces and 43 at-grade parking spaces. The complex includes 97 one-bedroom units and 60 two-bedroom units. It is surrounded by The Reserve at Montvale on Upper Saddle River Road to the north, Morgan Court single-family residential to the east and Summit Ridge Townhouse development and the parkway to the west. On the siteʼs south side is Summit Avenue, a commercial building and the former A&P headquarters previously approved for an 80unit townhouse development at 2 Paragon Drive. The proposed complex is within a mile of The Shoppes at DePiero Farm, an approved 185unit multifamily housing complex on the former Sony property, and luxury rental units planned at S. Hekemianʼs North Market residential, retail and office development underway on Mercedes Drive. Recently, a 448-unit inclusionary multifamily housing complex was approved on 30 former Sony acres in Park Ridge. Scheduled to likely appear March 16 are applicant engineer Patricia Ruskan, traffic consultant Corey Chase, and consulting planner Richard Preiss.

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PASCACK VALLEY

Sc h ool News

CTeen U ‘Jewish Law School’ for teens registering now

After two successful courses of CTeen U, Valley Chabadʼs Teen Leadership Initiative is excited to launch its spring course, “Jewish Law School.” The course explores Judaismʼs guidelines for life, investigating such questions as, “Is it right to steal bread for a homeless person? Why is

RIVER VALE

suicide wrong? and Can you be punished for not saving someoneʼs life?” The class will delve into classical texts such as the Talmud and Mishnah, and consider contemporary Jewish philosophers such as Rabbi Soloveitchik and Lord Jonathan Sacks. Most importantly, teens will

Seed library on the grow!

The River Vale Library is proud to announce the launch of its new Seed Library. Request a variety of herb, vegetable, and flower seeds to plant and grow at home. The Seed Library offers free seeds and resources for planting, growing, harvesting, and seed saving. The library says, “Our Seed Library is about empowering community members to grow their own

food, and reconnecting the community to the outdoors and the tradition of growing tasty, healthy food. Check with the River Vake Public Library on books about gardening. Donors are Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds, Burpee High Mowing Organic Seeds, Hudson Valley Seed Company, and Territorial Seed Company. For more information, visit rivervalelibrary.org/seed-library.

have meaningful and honest discussions about Jewish values with other Jewish teens. “In a world full of TikTok and [the game] Among Us, itʼs more important than ever for teens to take time out every week and connect to their heritage,” explained course instructor Rabbi Yosef Orenstein, director of Valley Chabadʼs TLI. In collaboration with Yeshiva University, CTeen Uʼs relevant and engaging curriculum on the tenets of Judaism cultivates a sense of purpose and Jewish identity. Te e n s will earn two private college credits for the course through Yeshiva University, transferable to almost any school. CTeen U, which runs eight Tuesday evenings on Zoom beginning March 2, will run 80 minutes and is open to all Jewish teens in grades 10–12. There is no homework.

The spring course costs $999, but a generous community scholarship brings it to $500 for the next five teens to register. Adam Yunaev, of Woodcliff Lake, a junior at Pascack Hills High School, said, “What I enjoy most about studying at CTeenU is we learn about the principles of Jewish life and ultimately strengthen our faith and commitment to a good life.” He added, “This class has helped me get through the passing of my grandmother, my good friendʼs recent diagnosis of leukemia, and the effects of the Covid-19 virus on my daily life. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to join, and highly recommend it to others.” For more information, write rabbiyyosef@valleychabad.org or call (201) 476-0157. Register at cteenu.com. Use scholarship code VCCT5781.

‘THERE’S NO HOMEWORK.’ Via “Jewish Law School” promotional video.

BASKETBALL, PICKLEBALL COMING TO CONVERTED TENNIS COURTS BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFF LAKE

One of Americaʼs fastestgrowing sports might soon be coming to a converted tennis court in the borough, thanks to a $33,700 state matching grant. Officials said the grant will be used to help the borough convert at least two tennis courts, one for basketball and one for the fastest-growing sport in America: pickleball. Winding Way resident David Eisbrouch had phoned in to the Feb. 8 Borough Council meeting to inquire about converting an existing tennis court or two into a pickleball court for local pickleball enthusiasts.

He said he and his family, including his “kids,” now in the late 20s and early 30s, enjoy the game. He said pickleball can be played outside for 9–10 months per year, except for inclement or cold weather. Whether one or two pickleball courts may be possible with an in-hand $33,700 state matching grant was not clear, but officials said they initially planned to convert two existing tennis courts with the grant. Eisbrouch said that it might be possible to create two pickleball courts from one tennis court. Jackie Councilwoman Gadaleta and Councilman Steven Falanga said they would reach out to Eisbrouch to tap his pickleball expertise. The sport of pickleball, cre-

PARK RIDGE

Park Ridge BOE meeting dates for 2021

In accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, P.L. 1975 c231, this is to advise that the following meetings will take place pursuant to Board Policy #0154. The regular monthly meetings of the Park Ridge Board of Education will be held on the third Monday of each month, unless otherwise indicated. Private session begins at 6:05 p.m. followed by the public meeting at 7 in the Little Theater of Park

Ridge High School. The dates for the regular monthly meetings are Feb. 22, March 22, April 26, May 24, June 14, Aug. 30, Sept. 20, Oct. 18, Nov. 22, Dec. 20, and Jan. 5, 2022. Other meetings will be designated as special meetings and advertised as needed. Action may be taken on matters involving personnel, finance, litigation, and negotiations.

ated in 1965 in Bainbridge, Wash., combines elements of badminton, table tennis, and tennis. Two or four players use paddles made of wood or composite material to hit a perforated plastic ball, similar to a Wiffle ball, over a net. It is played on a court that matches the layout of a badminton court, with a net and rules that resemble tennis. The USA Pickleball Association describes the game as “fun, social and friendly. The rules are simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players.” Falanga said some funds may be used to resurface tennis courts that have suffered water damage, as the tennis courts were used extensively into last fallʼs season. Borough Administrator Tom Padilla said he would keep Eisbrouch posted on the grant and future pickleball court coming to town.

Pascack Press

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

Arielle and Alyssa: Holding on to each other forever This article was first published in spring 2019, one year after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. In light of the three-year anniversary of that event, I wanted to republish this article, as I believe its message rings as true today as it did two years ago. Events that the article states happened a year ago are now three years past, and Arielle is no longer a sophomore but rather a senior. It is my dearest hope that readers can find meaning and inspiration from my efforts to commemorate and acknowledge a beautiful friendship and a life lost far too soon.

* * *

TEPPING OFF THE school bus and entering elementary school as a young child brings you to the place where you meet the best friends youʼll have for life. After-school playdates, recreational sports, and trips to the mall add up to some of the best adventures you store in your memory. Theyʼve been with you from your crazy little kid years, all the way to your middle school awkward stage. For Pascack Hills sophomore Arielle Solomon [the authorʼs sister], this best friend was Alyssa Alhadeff. Alhadeff and Solomon met in second grade in Woodcliff Lake. Solomon would often visit the Alhadeff house, where they would make scrapbooks together and have sleepovers. The Alhadeff and Solomon families would also spend a lot of time together, whether it was going bowling, attending sports games, or just out to dinner. Alhadeff and Solomon were inseparable, until 6th grade, when the Alhadeff family moved to Parkland, Fla. They claimed that it was a very safe area, and Alyssaʼs father could get a better job that was not available when the family was living in Woodcliff Lake. “It was really hard when they moved,” Solomon said, “because Alyssa was one of my closest friends.” But even over 1,000 miles wouldnʼt separate them. “We would still hang out, though,” Solomon added. “Alyssaʼs new house in Parkland was very close to where my grandparents lived, and we would still see her a couple of times a year.” In November 2017, Solomon was visiting her grandparents, and her mom asked her if she wanted to visit the Alhadeffs. Solomon said no, because they were only in Florida for a few days, and it would be too hard to organize quickly. She reassured herself that she would be able to see Alyssa another time when they visited Florida next. On Feb. 14, 2018, Alyssa Alhadeff was shot ten times and killed while in her English class at

Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. On the way home from rehearsal for Hillsʼ spring musical, Solomon got the news that Alhadeff had been shot. At first, she didnʼt think much of the news that there had been another school shooting. Her mom told her it had been in Parkland, at the school that Alhadeff went to. Since the school has around 3,000 students, Solomon told herself that Alhadeff was fine. “Is Alyssa okay?” she remembers asking. “She actually got shot,” her mom replied. They found out the next morning that Alyssa had died. “The day after, it was really hard to get through my classes,” Solomon recalled. “The Woodcliff Lake side of the [Hills] freshman class was especially distraught because they all knew her.” Over a year later, Solomon recalls the time after Alyssaʼs death. “It was difficult and really hard to come to terms with for a while,” Solomon said. “I still canʼt believe sheʼs actually gone.” But Solomon has helped to make sure her best friend did not die in vain. She has attended events in Alyssaʼs honor and has made speeches at these events. She has assisted Alyssaʼs mom,

Lori, with her non-profit organization, Make Our Schools Safe. The organization has achieved many things in the past years, including passing Alyssaʼs Law in her home state of New Jersey, which requires every public school in the state to have silent panic buttons in case of an active shooter entering the school. Solomon also visits Alhadeffʼs grave every time she visits Florida. The last time she visited her, she made a scrapbook, just like the ones the girls made as kids, and left it with Alyssa in the cemetery. “The scrapbook had a bunch of our memories inside it and all of the amazing things that her friends and family are doing in her honor,” Solomon said.

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY RILEY SOLOMON OF PASCACK HILLS TRAILBLAZER

WOODCLIFF LAKE

HILLS SENIOR Arielle Solomon, right, and Alyssa Alhadeff the last time they were together.

Parkland is over 1,000 miles away from Woodcliff Lake, but because of people like Solomon, Alyssa Alhadeffʼs legacy lives on. In loving memory of Alyssa Alhadeff.

Editorʼs note: This piece originally appeared as “Arielle and Alyssa: Two best friends holding onto each other forever” at phhstrailblazer.org. We are

reprinting it with permission as part of our Student Press Partnership, amplifying student voices throughout the Pascack Valley. Riley Solomon is a junior at Hills, and this is her third year as a member of the Trailblazer. This year she edits the College Corner section, covering the latest on college admissions, tours, and relevant news to prospective students.

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

Celebrating 20 Years SOLOMON AND ALHADEFF as girls, in a photo included in Solomon’s scrapbook.

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Dining & Cooking Guide

LIBRARY CALENDAR: VIRTUAL PROGRAMS THIS WEEK

EMERSON 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org • Magical Melodies meets on Monday, Feb. 22 from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. on Facebook Live. High-energy songs, dancing, and instruments for ages 2–4. • Baby & Me is on Facebook Tuesday, Feb. 23 at 11:30 a.m. An introduction to songs, dance and finger plays with stuffed animals and rhymes. Newborn to 2. • Music lovers can learn about “Motown Records and Berry Gordy” during a Zoom presentation by professor Rick Feingold on Thursday, Feb. 25 from 7 to 8:15 p.m. Gordyʼs Motown label played an important role in the racial integration of popular music, launching the careers of Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder,

The Jackson 5, and many others. Pre-register online; Zoom link will be sent three hours prior to event.

HILLSDALE 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org • Virtual chair yoga classes are led by Maria Elena BaezDominguez on Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Free program is held via Zoom. Register online. • Relax and recharge during a mid-week Guided Meditation with Maria. This Zoom program is offered every Wednesday evening in February at 8 p.m. Visit the libraryʼs website to register. • Zumba via Zoom is Thursday, Feb. 25 at 4:30 p.m. Janet Weller, personal trainer and group fitness instructor, leads a dance-

based workout. Register online. • Join the Hillsdale Library for a Virtual Metropolitan Museum of Art Tour via Zoom on Saturday, Feb. 27 from 3 to 4 p.m. The Modern & Contemporary Art tour encompasses the wide range of world art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Register online.

MONTVALE 12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org • The Montvale Cookbook Supper Club will meet to discuss “See You on Sunday” by Sam Sifton via Zoom on Monday, Feb. 22 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Email therese.jones@montvale.bccls.org

to register. • Zoom to the Moon virtual storytime for toddlers meets Wednesday, Feb. 24 at 10:30 a.m. on Zoom. Fun, interactive session enhances early literacy skills. Age 2 and under. Registration required.

HOLDING THE MOMENT

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

“It’s been a full year since we were asked to shut down for a few weeks due to a potential Pandemic threat and here we are. We missed celebrating each holiday with you so let’s try to catch up in ‘21, it’s going to be a good year.”

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IN CONSIDERING HIS TOP PHOTOS of 2020, Westwood resident and event photographer Nick Ariemma shared this one, from Feb. 6 of that year. He posted, “It’s been a long time since freight moved through Westwood. Last week a new transformer for a local substation was moved up the Pascack Valley Line and delivered to the siding in Hillsdale. With the transformer off-loaded, NS local H81 made the run up the line to retrieve the empty car. With the empty in tow, a black and white locomotive with a trademark horse on its long hood made the slow run past Westwood’s iconic Iron Horse restaurant. On a line where commuters rule, the ‘horses’ held the moment today.” Ariemma works for the Borough of Westwood and serves on the Board of Directors of the New York Central Historical Society.

Dining & Cooking Guide

More than 3,000 valentines reach seniors, first responders

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

All you need is love—and a Valentineʼs Day card. That was the message sent and delivered to hundreds of essential workers and seniors who have been most impacted by the nearly year-long coronavirus pan-

love” of a Valentineʼs Day message to those in need of a kind word. The club collected messages of love and support from boxes it placed in Montvale, Park Ridge, River Vale, Hillsdale, Westwood, Washington Township and Emerson. The club encouraged children and adults to craft and submit personal cards and letters with messages of caring and kindness.

WITH VALENTINE’S DAY CARDS from the Pascack Junior Woman’s Club “Share the Love” drive are (left to right, back to front) Hillsdale finance officer Peter McGee, technical assistant Mary Williams, administrative assistant Susan Gray, Clerk Kathy Sabol, construction official Michelle Wood, Borough Administrator Christopher Tietjen, and finance assistant and Planning Board Secretary Robin Hamman. (Courtesy Denise Kohan.)

YOUNG VINNY AND JULIA FARLEY deliver cards to Capt. John Beatty of the Hillsdale Volunteer Ambulance Corps.

demic, thanks to efforts of the GFWC Paskack Junior Womanʼs Club. Valentines helped spread a blanket of warm feelings to first responders, senior residents, and hospitals throughout the Pascack Valley, evoking smiles and glimmers of hope following a year of covid-related challenges and uncertainty. The General Federation of Womanʼs Clubs (GFWC) Paskack Junior Womanʼs Club sent out over 3,000 Valentine's Day cards and wishes to emergency personnel on the front lines, homebound elderly residents deeply affected by the coronavirus, and essential workers whose daily work helped sustain their communities. For months, the Paskack Junior Womanʼs Club conducted a Valentineʼs Day card drive, asking area residents, children, schools and scout groups to create homemade cards to help “share the

Plenty Of Fresh Fish!

“It is our pleasure to enclose these Valentineʼs card creations with you to distribute to the staff at Hillsdale Borough Hall,” wrote Jackie Farley, a womanʼs club committee member helping to distribute the cards. “We hope they bring smiles to many at your facility.” Hillsdale Municipal Clerk Denise Kohan was so thrilled with the beautiful homemade cards sent to borough employees, she called Pascack Press to thank all those who contributed to the effort. “The Employees of the Borough of Hillsdale, the Hillsdale Police Department and the HillsCONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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Dining & Cooking Guide PARK RIDGE

EightyTwenty Smash launching late winter

EightyTwenty smash, a traveling burger pop-up from local chef and Westwood resident Matthew Borgersen, will host its first dates in March. Borgersen, who is on hiatus as executive chef of upscale Italian restaurant Caffe Anello, is excited to try something different, as the pandemic has made fine dining very limited since early last year. Heʼs been working in local Jersey kitchens since he was a teenager, plus time in New York as well. Inspired by the classic burgers served at White Manna in Hackensack, heʼs bringing his own take to area foodies—offering sliders and fries at numerous pop-up events throughout Bergen County.

The first date is Sunday, March 21 at Caffe Anello (11 Madison Ave.), with more to be announced soon. The sliders at eightytwenty smash are crafted using an 80/20 custom prime blend, thatʼs pastureraised and 100% hormone/antibiotic free from beef purveyor New York Valley Wagyu. The meat is then smashed on a griddle, topped with yellow American cheese and served on a Martinʼs Slider Potato Roll. For more information about upcoming events, dank memes and more, guests can visit http://eightytwentysmash.com or stay up to date @eightytwentysmash on Facebook and Instagram.

Master Yoo’s raises $1,000 for Valerie Fund

PASCACK VALLEY

Meals on Wheels seeks volunteers

Meals on Wheels North Jersey needs volunteer drivers in Closter, Demarest, Haworth, Park Ridge, and Montvale. Volunteers give two hours each month delivering meals. The

food is picked up 10 to 11 a.m. and delivered to 10–12 clients. To volunteer your time and care where it can really help, call (201) 358-0050 or visit mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org.

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LEFT TO RIGHT: Valerie Fund Director of Communications Bunny Flanders, Master Yoo’s Summit Martial Arts Grandmaster Yoo, and Valerie Fund Executive Director Barry Kirschner. Master Yooʼs Summit Martial Arts of Summit, Park Ridge, and Monmouth Junction hold an annual toy drive to benefit The Valerie Fund in Maplewood, which has been supporting children with cancer and blood disorders since 1976. The toys collected are used by the organization throughout the year for the families they serve. Due to Covid-19, Master Yooʼs Summit Martial Arts decided that in light of the pandemic it

was best to cancel the drive this year, but not the giving. Through a fundraiser, where they offered hand warmers as a token thank you and collected monetary donations, including from their smaller in-person enrollment and the many people attending their online classes, the school raised $1,000. “Even in these difficult times we face, we should still remember to think outside of the box and help others whenever we can,” Master

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HILLSDALE

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FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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Ava Messina, grade 8, is Mundhenk honoree

Congratulations to Ava Messina, recipient of the William Mundhenk Character Recognition Award, which acknowledges a student at St. Johnʼs Academy for his or her good manners, respectful attitude, cooperation, generosity of time and talent, and good school spirit. The award was presented by Suzanne Socha, principal at St. Johnʼs Academy, on Jan. 4. The award was established by Lawrence Mundhenk on behalf of himself and his late wife, Viola, in memory of their son William, a St. Johnʼs Academy graduate. Ava, an eighth-grader, accepted the award with her classmates (participating in the presentation both remotely and in-person), Socha, and Eighth Grade Coordinator Joanna Ariyan. Socha told Pascack Press on Jan. 28 that Ava is “a gregarious, positive and reliable student who works hard in everything she does.

Ava is a girl who works carefully in her studies and is known to find the best in difficult situations. She embodies the Catholic virtues of grace and kindness in her relationships with others.” Socha added, “These are the values we encourage in all students and Ava is an exemplary representative of the very best St. Johnʼs Academy has to offer.” St. Johnʼs Academy is committed to a Catholic education based on faith, academics and service that lasts a childʼs lifetime. St. Johnʼs Academy is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year and is a thriving progressive Catholic school in Hillsdale.

PRINCIPAL SUZANNE SOCHA presents the William Mundhenk Character Recognition Award to Ava Messina during algebra class on Jan. 4.

WOODCLIFFLAKE

Free development screening for kids 3–21

The Woodcliff Lake Public Schools Special Education Department offers services to those 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.

Contact the Child Study Team at (201) 930-5600 ext. 113, if you have any questions.

“Our belief in early intervention is the foundation of our philosophy and programs,” says the office.

HILLSDALE

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The Hillsdale Department of Public Works has opened the Recycling Center on a limited basis each week on Monday and Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Residents are required to wear a mask or face covering to enter the recycling area and must maintain social distancing guidelines. You must have a resident sticker to gain entry.

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Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide ADVERTISER CONTENT

DR. KAPLAN: Parkinson’s disease detection and treatment

P a r k i n s o n ʼs disease i s a movement disorder mostly characterized by hand tremors. People who suffer from this condition will DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & also have balance problems, BODY depression, an expressionless face, and poor posture. The medical community focuses on the production of dopamine to help reduce the tremors. However, there is a condition called tardive dyskinesia that results from taking Parkinsonʼs medication. Tardive dyskinesia may cause a facial tremor in the mouth or lips that looks a lot worse than the hand tremor and is a lot harder to fix. In my opinion, it is best to prevent Parkinsonʼs disease, rather than wait until you get it. If you wait too long, you may have to take medication which may have side effects that may be worse than the condition. There are early signs that help doctors understand how the patient is functioning and if they would be at risk for Parkinsonʼs disease later on in life. The first early correlation seen during childhood development is toe walking. Instead of having the proper gait and heel lift, some children walk where their back heels do not always touch the ground. Another early sign of Parkinsonʼs in adults is shoulder pain. This does not mean that if you have shoulder pain you are developing Parkinsonʼs disease. There are many other things that need to be looked at before we consider

that you are at risk. For example, we also have to look at the gait and see how the arm swings. Parkinsonʼs is characterized by a lack of arm swing on one side of your body as you walk. Neuroscience studies have also shown that if you have lost consciousness due to a head trauma like a concussion or brain injury, and were unconscious for more than five minutes, this greatly increases your chances of getting Parkinsonʼs disease. Scientific journals show that lack of smell can also be an early sign. The research has shown the best test to determine smell is the peanut butter test. An abnormal peanut butter test can occur 30 to 40 years before a tremor develops, so get your smell checked by a functional neurologist. Researchers have found that constipation usually occurs in Parkinsonʼs patients. To reduce constipation, as well as helping with Parkinsonʼs disease, try eliminating dairy and gluten products. Drink water 30 minutes before each meal. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables that have fiber that can help with digestion and brain function at the same time. Other important signs linked to Parkinsonʼs disease are decreased facial expressions, decreased blinking rate, and increased drooling. When we put this all together, it may be significant. For example, if there is a person who was a toe walker as a child, has shoulder pain, constipation, poor smell, drools, has less facial expression, a past history of concussion, and doesnʼt swing one arm while walking, we should be very concerned and

start working on the brain immediately. One or two of these symptoms may not require intervention. Get your brain evaluated and make sure you do the right things to keep yourself healthy. Having tremors does not mean you cannot get better. To enhance your quality of life, one of the first things we do is improve balance to help you walk better and prevent falls. This will reduce depression and help you sleep better. As most Parkinsonʼs patients suffer from depression, one easy natural solution that may help is supplementing with vitamin D3. If you do all the right things, your brain can change through a process called neuroplasticity which may help prevent and reduce symptoms of Parkinsonʼs disease. The bottom line is that with neuroplasticity, the brain can change! Many Parkinsonʼs patients have problems with the part of the brain called the basal ganglia and the frontal cortex. Think of the brain like a muscle: Use it or lose it. Since these areas of the brain are weak in Parkinsonʼs patients, the solution is to strengthen those specific parts of the brain. Even more important is the side of the brain that is affected most. If we can figure out what side of the brain is weaker, we can focus our therapies specifically on that side, resulting in a better outcome. In addition to neurological therapies, there are many nutrients and supplements that may help reduce Parkinsonʼs disease. The most researched nutrient is glutathione, which is best taken intravenously or through a topical

cream. It helps to bring more oxygen into the brain. Another natural substance proven to help is nicotine. This does not mean start smoking cigarettes. There are a group of plants called nightshades that can be eaten to get some of the positive benefits of nicotine. The most common nightshades are tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and green peppers. Parkinsonʼs disease can be helped through autophagy, where healthy brain cells “eat” the bad brain cells, and the brain creates neural connections that function at a higher level. This can be accomplished by fasting for 48 hours during a calm time. If your life is too busy and you need to be working, studying, moving or doing activities, it is not safe to do a complete 48 hour water fast. If this is the case,

you can also do intermittent fasting where you eat only durng 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and then you fast from 5 p.m to 9 a.m. By applying neuroscience we can help reduce symptoms of Parkinsonʼs disease. The key is not to wait. The longer you wait, the harder it is to change. If you function better, you will feel better, and you will improve your quality of life. I am giving FREE Parkinsonʼs neurological evaluations via Zoom and at my Emerson and New York City offices. Call (201) 261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com and mention this article to reserve your spot. The offer is valid until March 27. For more information visit www.kaplandc.com and subscribe to my YouTube channel, Kaplan Brain & Body.

He means business

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

PHOTO COURTESY MARTIN FAMILY

CONGRATULATIONS AND job well done to resident Aidan Martin, who was named to Susquehanna University’s dean’s list for the fall 2020 semester. The dean’s list recognizes students who achieve a grade point average of 3.4 or higher out of a possible 4.0 for the semester. To qualify, students must complete a minimum of 12 semester hours. Martin, a management major at Susquehanna University’s AACSB International-accredited Sigmund Weis School of Business, is a graduate of Bergen Catholic High School.

Spread the word! Let us help announce your achievements. Send your news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

faculty several days to ponder their final selection before a final vote. Karalewich said PVʼs com-

FROM PAGE 3

mittee generated 53 names as a starting point, which was cut to 46 when names did not meet its mascot criteria. Members were then asked to state the rationale for those 46 mascot options, and after

An Eagle in full

one week, 25 names had no rationale attached and five names had only negative rationales. Those 30 names were eliminated, leaving 16 possible choices, said Karalewich. Another committee meeting Jan. 27 cut the list to 11 names, said Karalewich. He said based on discussions with Pascack Hills, some top mascot names picked by Valley were similar to Hills, “So we conceded certain names to the other school.” He said the final 11 names were narrowed to six names, with two of those names being top vote-getters from its 68-member mascot committee. He said a survey of students and faculty is ongoing to decide which of four remaining names will be its third choice. “After what was discussed at our first four meetings, Iʼm confident that the new mascot will be a good fit for the school,” he said. Collis said the committee was “confident this process will give us the best mascot for our school moving forward.” She said the committee was giving interviews to the high schoolʼs online newspaper, PV Publication, where residents could find detailed accounts of committee work. Pascack Press reprints scholastic journalism from PV Publication and the Pascack Hills Trailblazer as part of its Student Press Partnership. Costs questioned A couple of trustees and a res-

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

PHOTO COURTESY STICKEL FAMILY

CONGRATULATIONS TO James Stickel, 16, the son of Robert and Mary Ellen Stickel of the Township of Washington, who passed his board of review for the rank of Eagle Scout on Jan. 31. With his friends, family, community volunteers, and Scouts of Troop 321, he completed his service project of building a veterans memorial outside the Township of Washington Library. More than 1,000 total hours were recorded during the project, consisting of the construction of a seat height wall, installation of 351 personalized and engraved pavers, and new landscaping. (For more, see “Township Dedicates Scout’s Veterans Memorial,” Nov. 15, 2019.)

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ident mentioned concern with future costs for the mascot changes. Montvale resident Carolee Adams said she wished the students had taken costs into account in their presentations. However, District Superintendent P. Erik Gundersen said that was not the committeesʼ task, as outlined by the administration. Adams said, “Their parents worry about funding. I worry about funding. And I recognize that their presentations were… very professional, full scale.” Adams said she was “taken aback” by students saying they were not worried about funding for future mascot changes at both high schools. She said she thought the students needed an “economics lesson” if they had not already had that in high school, “to move them into their next phase of life.” Gundersen said he would discuss specifics regarding the mascot committeesʼ roles if Adams called him the next day. He said the four students “did a fantastic job” presenting mascot updates to the public. He said when the students said they were not worried about funding, they meant they were not “charged with determining what funding would be necessary for the creation of new mascots.” Gundersen said students were put in charge of creating a process for students to select a new mascot, and were not made responsible for any funding aspect. Funding for any changes to include the new

mascots would be developed by district administrators and discussed and approved by the regional school board. At the Jan. 18 meeting, Gundersen said it would cost about $31,000 to replace various Pascack Hills mascot signage, including banners and score boards, plus another $75,000 to replace end zone field turf to remove the Cowboys logo. He recommended that only be done when the turf eventually requires replacement due to wear and tear. He said replacing Pascack Hills uniforms will cost about $53,000. He said theyʼd like to replace the uniforms as soon as possible. He said most expenses can be handled this budget year due to some unexpended costs and reduced costs due to a reduced sports schedule in 2020. He said at Pascack Valley, mascot changes will involve baseball scoreboard changes,turf field scoreboard gym signage, rubber mats, runners and banners amounting to about $29,000. He said some wrestling mats costing about $15,000 will be replaced over time. He said uniform replacement will cost about $36,000. He said the administration will talk soon with the finance committee about the plan for implementing mascot changes. Trustee Joseph Blundo noted minus the end zone turf changes and wrestling mats, the immediate mascot changes will cost about $130,000.

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Mascot: Student committees to share results soon Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

‘War and Peas’ takes PV sophomore far in Times contest BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

Here, reprinted with permission… War and Peas By Diego Mercado

Congratulations and job well done to Pascack Valley High School sophomore Diego Mercado, a student in Matthew Moroneʼs English II class, who was named a round-four finalist in the Second Annual New York Times Learning Network 2020 Student Narrative Contest. Diego submitted a work, “War and Peas,” that he created as part of a unit on narrative writing led by Morone and his student teacher, Michelle Chakansky. The Times gave entrants up to 600 words “to write a personal narrative of your own about a meaningful life experience. Weʼre not asking you to write to a particular theme or to use a specific structure or style, but we are looking for short, powerful stories about a particular moment or event in your life. We want to hear your story, told in your unique voice, and we hope youʼll experiment with style and form to tell a tale that matters to you, in a way you enjoy telling it.” All winners in the contest have been announced.

N THE BACKPACK, in the lunchbox, in the thermos, there lived a majestic cargo, an invaluable treasure, a priceless fortune: Pasta. Not just any pasta, no, it was the most pristine pasta, soft, just the right amount of salt, and coated with buttery excellence. In my mind, the mind of a fourth-grader, a masterpiece, the height of chefery around the globe. Coveted by all, but had by few, this penne perfection would sustain me for an entire year. But there was a problem. Throughout the kingdom of the pasta, there were demons. Tiny green apparitions that clouded the proud existence of glorious delight. Peas. They were everywhere, the top, the bottom, the sides, even the holey part inside the pasta wasnʼt safe. My mother would put them in, going on about the health factors and protein and whatnot. I didnʼt listen. I hated those vile vegetables with everything I had, and when lunch came one day, I snapped. I arrived home that day after

ing the Feb. 8 council session. Former Councilwoman Donna Abene, who said she was on the council when the BMW tax settlement was crafted in 2014, noted “the settlement is sterling.” She said the council was “in a heck of a pickle and BMW met us,

as the good neighbors they are, at more than half way.” She said BMW “structured the [tax refund] deal so we could get right with them without going bankrupt as a town.” She said, “You need to stop talking about it. Itʼs over, itʼs done with, weʼre paying our part and BMW is still here; thank heavens

after-care, and my mother asked me, “Did you eat your peas?” I never knew why, but she always asked us, me and my brothers, if we ate our lunch. I think it might have been because my brother brought home his lunch without eating it sometimes, and he sometimes even ate the aftercare oreos without eating his lunch. Even though she asked me this every day, this time, this one time, it was different. It was an accusation. She knew. Panic exploded from my body in the form of sweat, and an unfamiliar itch crept into my armpits, stinging, burning, punishing me for the lie I was about to tell. “What? Yeah.” “Okay, good, honey.” It seemed that all the air in my lungs had been trapped, because when I turned around to exhale, half a minute must have passed before I breathed in once more. Each time, it became easier, the dumping of the peas, as I called it, but not just that; the lying became almost natural, automatic, every time I came home with an empty thermos and she asked if I had eaten everything.

BMW: Deal said ‘sterling’ FROM PAGE 2

theyʼre still here.” As for possible lawsuits against BMW, she advised: “Stop it. Itʼs over, it was settled years ago. It was a fair settlement for everyone. So thereʼs all sorts of things to worry about in this world today. Move on, folks, move on from this,” she said.

And even with the hidden peas which lodged themselves so relentlessly in the pasta, I was enjoying my lunch almost sans peas, and when I finished all the grain, the peas that were let fall to the bottom would be thrown from the thermos into the garbage, usually needing a good shake to get them unstuck. But there was a problem. Unfortunately, my parents had raised me well, and they had built

a conscience into me so I always knew right from wrong, and this deception, this misleading, was very, very wrong. It wasnʼt long before I realized: I was disgusted with myself. A small part of my soul would shrivel up, turn black every time I said the words that gave my mother satisfaction. “Yeah I did.” They were growing inside of me, fed by the fibs, nourished by the naughtiness, and they wouldnʼt die; no, they lived, they lived to get stuck everywhere, the top, the bottom, the sides, even the holy part of my body, my heart, wasnʼt safe from these manifestations of untruth. I couldnʼt live with it. Something had to be done. But one last con was fine, right? So I told my mom I hated them, which was true. She was upset, but against all my expectations she stopped sending me peas with lunch. I didnʼt get around to the truth. I didnʼt need to. And I was free.

dale Fire Department would like to thank the GFWC Paskack Junior Womanʼs Club and the area residents, children, schools, and scout groups that participat-

knows that someone out there cares about them,” said the clubʼs website. Junior The Paskack Womanʼs Club is a 90-year-old not-for-profit organization made up of women of all ages from the

Mercado

Valentines: Sweet! FROM PAGE 13

SO SWEET! GFWC Paskack Junior Woman’s Club delivers…

ed in the ʻShare the Loveʼ Valentines Day Card Drive. The messages, cards and well wishes brought smiles to all of us. We thank you for thinking of us,” said Kohan. The Paskack Womanʼs Club asked all card contributors to sign their names “so the recipient

Pascack Valley area and surrounding towns. Members volunteer time and service and revenue raised is donated to local charities and organizations including ambulance corps, social services, food banks and other nonprofit and public service agencies.

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

represent the best documentary family photography from around the globe. The DFAʼs two 2020 Call For Entries included 11 categories with themes ranging from relevant social issues to portraits, photo series to birth photography. Awarded third place and an honorable mention the “Pandemic” category, Chang-Lomonicoʼs work has been showcased by the DFA in an online gallery featuring all award-winning photographs from the eight rounds of the competition since its inception. One of the only photo competitions in the world to offer transparent live-streamed judging, the DFA concludes each round of awards with a two-day online critique-based event led by a panel of top documentary photographers and photojournalists. Chang-Lomonicoʼs work was viewed and discussed alongside contending finalist submissions and chosen as one of the most outstanding examples of documentary family photography in 2020. With the aim of the DFA to “educate, elevate, and celebrate,” the live-judging serves to provide educational feedback about the photographs submitted and inspire photographers to elevate the genre of documentary family photography, the organization says.

FROM PAGE 1

Personal stories, clientsʼ stories On her website, juliachangphoto.com, Chang-Lomonico notes she is the first person in her family to be born in the United States, her extended family hailing from Taiwan.

IN THE WOODS: Park Ridge photographer Julia Chang-Lomonico says this image was taken in July 2020, her first major outing since the shutdown. “No one knew the rules,” she said.

She also discusses yoga, singing, entrepreneurship, and the adventure of motherhood. She says, “Each family has a story to tell. A story that is worth remembering for all of its parts— the chaos, laughter, and every day minutiae of family life. A story, that despite the good, bad and ugly, is ultimately driven by love.” Her own story, she says, is “an intricately woven tapestry filled with colorful people and experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today.” Of her contest showings, she told Pascack Press on Feb. 15, “I feel honored to be recognized in a

genre that celebrates the reality of everyday families, especially during a time when everything seems so insular because of the pandemic.” She said, “Many of todayʼs images consumed in the media often only emphasize a very limited narrative of what families look like. In a culture where everything is aspirational and competitive, I think itʼs important to recognize that everyoneʼs reality, while uniquely individual, are also quite universally connected.” Her third-place image, “In the Woods,” was taken in July 2020, Chang-Lomonicoʼs first major

WOODCLIFF LAKE

outing since the pandemic shutdown in March. “It was a desperately needed trip, though there was much anxiety leading up to our annual camping trip. No one knew the rules, and like the rest of the country we were making them up as we went along. No amount of pre-planning could fully relinquish the anxiety of taking this calculated risk,” she said. She added, “This image is a peaceful moment of my daughter being enveloped by nature, bathed in this beautiful light cast from the reflection of the lake. And yet there is a faint yet unmistakable layer of tension; a feeling like I was holding my breath.” She explained, “I was drawn

to this question of how one reengages with the world after being forced to hide from it for a while. I was drawn to watching children navigate the ʻnew rulesʼ of social interaction while their parents were learning them at the same time.” For the honorable mention image, “Living Room Scene,” the image was taken at home during the first week after everything shut down in March. “All the structures that had traditionally existed within society had been deeply fractured. Productivity had become a farce, and ultimately, it became a game of just trying to figure out how to coexist in the same space,” ChangLomonico said. She added, “Having their father at home was still a novelty at that point, and no matter where he tried to escape to do his work, the kids still managed to find him. When escape is not an option, itʼs best to just join them.” She said “Finding this moment with my camera reaffirmed that they may tune you out at times but kids are always watching, and our productivity is not always linear. Letting our kids into our world makes way for new opportunities.” A gallery of 2020ʼs awarded images is shared at documentaryfamilyawards.com/awards. Information about the DFAʼs most recent judges can be found at documentaryfamilyawards.com/judges. — Pascack Press

EDITORʼS NOTE: Weʼre always up for illuminating art and stories! Request submission guidelines: pascackpress@thepressgroup.net. Also see our Letters policy.

TEPV celebrates ‘New Year of the Trees’

Tu VʼShvat is the Jewish holiday that celebrates the New Year of the Trees. Observed on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, in Hebrew it is called Rosh HaShanah LaʼIlanot. Today in Israel it is celebrated as an ecological awareness day and trees were planted in celebration. Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley held a Tu BʼShvat seder on Zoom. Rabbi Loren Monosov lead a festive ceremony accompanied by a meal featuring fruits in honor of the holiday. According to Simone Wilker of Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley, this seder is similar to a Passover seder but it celebrates the Tree of Life. The fruits are divided into categories: The first are fruits and nuts with a hard inedible exterior but a soft edible inside, such as oranges and walnuts. Next, fruits and nuts with soft exteriors but a hard pit inside, such as dates and apricots. The last are fruits eaten whole, such as figs

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Rules: Pandemic’s peculiarities revealed in art

Local artists invited to apply for ArtsBergen ‘Studio Sneak Peek’

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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The Northern New Jersey Community Foundationʼs (NNJCF) ArtsBergen invites artists living or working in Bergen County to apply to “Studio Sneak Peek.” Three artists from the visual and performing arts will be selected to participate by creating prerecorded videos in their studios discussing and demonstrating their creative process for a recent work, a current unfinished project, or their practice in general. The selected artists will be featured at the next NNJCF ArtsBergen Connect the Dots networking event on April 21 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The Connect the Dots Studio Sneak Peek will showcase established and emerging artists in their studios and offer a live question and answer and interactive networking time to colleagues, art enthusiasts and the communityat-large. Applicants must live or work in Bergen County and be at least 18. Artists must be able to prerecord a five-minute video in their

studio or workspace to present on Zoom at the Connect the Dots Studio Sneak Peek on April 21. Artists unable to use their regular studio or workspace, who are making and creating at home or elsewhere because of COVID19, are also eligible. Each work shown on the video must be an artistʼs original work. The deadline to submit an application is Feb. 26. Applicants must register at https://artsbergenstudiosneakpeek.artcall.org, complete a brief online application, and upload the following: • one short demonstration video introducing themselves and their work (maximum 26 mb in file size with MP4 mov and avi files supported); • one work sample of artwork, a clip of scenes, music, or dance, among others as a jpeg, jpg, png, gif, mp4, mov, or avi file forms with a maximum size of 25 mb; and • a resume or bio. Artists selected to participate will receive notification by March 15. Each artist selected will

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receive compensation of $250. According to Danielle De Laurentis, associate director of Northern New Jersey Community Foundation, Studio Sneak Peek provides an excellent opportunity for artists to present themselves, their work, as well as the creative process to a new audience. This forum can also help artists drive traffic to their web-

sites to encourage sales or connections, she said in a press release. “During Studio Sneak Peek, artists network with other local artists and community members. In addition, their participation showcases and elevates the local talent in Bergen County,” she said. For more information, call

(201) 568-5608 or write artsbergen@nnjcf.org. Complete details appear at https://artsbergenstudiosneakpeek.artcall.org. Founded in 1998, the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation (NNJCF), a not-forprofit 501(c)(3) organization based in Hackensack, focuses primarily on civic engagement, education, public health, the environment, philanthropy, and the arts. The NNJCF works with local governments, school districts, businesses, non-profit organizations, and citizen groups in Northern New Jersey to improve community life. ArtsBergen, a Northern New Jersey Community Foundation initiative, is an arts alliance in Bergen County supporting and encouraging creative placemaking, the practice of integrating arts and culture into a neighborhood, town, or region to build community and livability and boost local economy. The initiative's mission is to energize and unify artists and arts organizations and connect the Bergen County community to the arts. For more information, visit nnjcf.org/artsbergen.

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The Park Ridge Municipal Pool opened on June 28, 2020 under a strict set of safety guidelines and appears poised to open up again in 2021. The pool offered an outdoor respite for the community and prior-member non-Park Ridge residents. Officials say, “While itʼs a bit too early to be certain, we fully anticipate the Park Ridge Municipal Pool will open on Memorial Day Weekend. We expect that pool memberships will be open to all Park Ridge residents and non-resident employees of Park Ridge Borough and Board of Education.” A limited number of memberships will be offered to non-residents. New non-residents must be sponsored by a Park Ridge resident or prior pool member. The 2021 rates are the same as they were in 2019:

Resident Family: $410 Resident Single: $300 Resident Seniors: Free Non-Resident Family: $510 Non-Resident: Single: $360 Non-Resident Senior: $75/$100 per couple (both must be 65 or older) Stay tuned for registration due dates to avoid a $35 late fee. The Park Ridge Municipal Pool normally provides swim lessons and numerous activities, including competitive swim and dive teams, arts and crafts, storytime, Red Cross lifeguard training, adult nights, and other special events as posted throughout the summer. As statewide safety protocols are released, the town will evaluate its ability to continue these services. Receive updates via parkridgeboro.com or write pool@parkridgeboro.com.

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With a new year comes new tactics as scammers continue trying to extract money from PSE&G customers by impersonating employees on the phone and in person. PSE&G urges customers to be alert for the telltale signs of a scam. PSE&G has observed a recent increase in scammers contacting customers and falsely alleging overdue balances and threatening to shut off power without immediate payment. At this time, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, PSE&G has suspended any service disconnections for residential customers. While the common scam tac-

tic of requesting a prepaid debit card to provide payment available at local pharmacies and convenience stores is still active, some con artists are now demanding payment via digital payment platforms or apps. PSE&G does not accept payments through prepaid debit cards or third party mobile payment applications. PSE&G offers a variety of payment options and would never require one specific type of payment. For more information on various payment scams reported in the PSE&G service area and around the country, visit pseg.com/scamalert. “Scammers give you a reason to panic and then offer you a

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quick resolution via payment. They want you to react quickly, without thinking clearly,” said Fred Daum, PSE&Gʼs executive director of Customer Operations. “By demanding payment via apps, the scammer is further reducing your time to think by eliminating your trip to the convenience store to buy the prepaid card. With this method, you donʼt get the chance to pause and say,ʼ Hey, wait a minute,ʼ while youʼre waiting on line at the store.” Signs of potential scam activity • Threat to disconnect: Scammers may aggressively tell the customer their utility bill is past due and service will be disconnected if a payment is not made — usually within an hour. • Request for immediate payment: Scammers may instruct the customer to purchase a prepaid card, a gift card or even Bitcoin, and then to call them back — supposedly to make a phone payment to the utility company. They may request that the customer use a payment app to make an online payment — or even give instructions for an in-person meeting, supposedly at a utility customer center. Many times after the customer makes the first payment, the scammer will call back to ask for the payment to be resubmitted due to an error with the amount. The scammer refers to a new amount and claims that the origi-

nal payment will be refunded. Sometimes they will call a third time to say the payment did not go through and to resubmit again. • In person-demands: Scammers may arrive at a home or business, flash a fake ID and/or claim to be a utility collection representative. The impostors may wear “uniforms” or affix false company signs to their vehicles. The scammers generally ask for personal information, which real utility representatives do not do, or offer bogus discounts. • Request for card information: If a customer calls back with requested information, the caller asks the customer for the prepaid cardʼs number or giftcard PIN, which grants the scammer instant access to the cardʼs funds, and the victimʼs money is gone. • Priority meter installs: Recent phone scams reported to PSE&G include demands for payment for past-due bills, discounts for good payment history or requiring a deposit for a priority meter installation. PSE&G does not require a deposit for meter installations. Often scammers will threaten to disconnect electric service if payment is not made immediately. These scammers often demand payment through a prepaid cards or Bitcoin. If the victim takes the bait, the scammer provides a telephone number

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where a fake representative requests additional information that completes the fraudulent transaction.

Protect yourself against scams Be alert to the telltale sign of a scam: someone asking by telephone or email for payment in pre-paid debit cards or a MoneyGram transfer, or to send money to an out-of-state address. Never arrange payment or divulge account or personal information, including Social Security numbers or debit or credit card information, over the telephone unless you are certain you are speaking to a PSE&G representative. Customers should also know what PSE&G will and wonʼt discuss over the phone. A genuine PSE&G representative will ask to speak to the “customer of record.” If that person is available, the representative will explain why they are calling and provide the account name, address and current balance. If the person on the phone does not provide the correct information, it is likely the customer is not speaking with a PSE&G representative. If the “customer of record” is not available, the PSE&G representative will not discuss the account at all and ask that a message be left for the customer of record to call 1-800-436-PSEG (7734). If a customer has doubts about the legitimacy of a call or an email — especially one in which payment is requested — call the company directly at 1800-436-PSEG (7734). For more information on various payment scams reported in the PSE&G service area and around the country, visit pseg.com/scamalert.

P a sc a c k P r es s

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

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

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MANY INTERIOR DESIGNERS offer services, including hourly consultations, that can make them cost-effective, especially for homeowners who are still trying to define their style and decide just how they want their homes to look.

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or Emerson Station redevelopment project, at a recent Emerson Borough Council meeting much to the dismay of the mayor and every council member. McCann said the contract, approved in late 2018, has “essentially an unlimited amount of time” to be completed, which he said had never seen in any other contract he had ever been involved with between a town and a developer. McCann said a recent motion by the developer to move proceedings into federal court had been denied and though motions were still pending on federal jurisdiction it appeared the matter would now be heard in Superior Court. “Clearly the prior administration signed a contract with no end date in sight,” said McCann in a recent redevelopment update. He said the contractʼs terms are “a major disservice to this community and the biggest problem weʼre saddled with.” Council President Kenneth Hoffman seemed especially taken aback by what he called “the lack of timetables put in there.”

FROM PAGE 1

Replied McCann, “We have zero leverage, inexplicably, by the way. Iʼve never seen a contract like that in my life.” The project remains mired in dueling lawsuits, one filed by the borough against the developer to recoup $500,000 in construction services it alleges is owed from the sale of a former ambulance property. The developer alleged the borough did not meet a December 2019 deadline to provide designs and plans for the new ambulance building per its contract. We reached out to attorney Joseph Paparo, who represents Accurate Builders and Developers of New Jersey, owned by Yaakov Klugman, for comment on McCannʼs views. Paparo said he had no comment. Klugman is a 51% partner in the redevelopment project; 49% is owned by Giuseppi Forgione's JMF Properties of Whippany. The developer charges the boroughʼs new administration with trying “to interfere, impede and ultimately destroy” its ability to finish the project. Emerson Station, also Block 419 due to its location—and a his-

tory that includes controversial findings leading to condemnation and threats of eminent domain— proposes to bring 147 apartments and about 15,000 square feet of retail space to downtown Emerson, crisscrossed by railroad service accessing nearby towns and New York City. In addition, it proposes 22 affordable units, 15 on site and seven elsewhere in town. Mayor Danielle DiPaola said that “weʼve seen some very small progress in the last week” in early January. Two smaller buildings were demolished on site recently. “We look forward to working with them and ironing this out and getting that project moving,” she said. McCann told Pascack Press that he believes that no due diligence was conducted on the developer prior to final agreement signing and that “there are some major problems with those agreements” including lack of an enforceable timetable for completion. “My professional opinion is that the developer is incompetent,” said McCann, updating the

Clinic: Mayors on vaccines that opportunity is not being afforded to us right now, we are hopeful that will change and we will be able to partner with our surrounding towns to offer a local clinic. Stay tuned as we remain willing to do whatever is necessary to facilitate local administration of vaccines as soon as we are given the go ahead by health officials.” Misciagna also noted that CVS had recently opened up its scheduling portal and that the demand had exceeded available slots. “New appointments will be added. Again, like with all the online scheduling, persistence is key.” Hillsdale Mayor John Ruocco also reported on the call, “a county-wide call with the governorʼs staff [and] attended by local and county officials, local hospitals, and other organizations that are administering the vaccine.” He said key takeaways included: • “The county [was to] set up an inbound/outbound call center to follow-up with residents, especially those with special needs, to see if they are getting the necessary vaccines. To do this effectively, they will be contacting the Office of Emergency Management and

FROM PAGE 1

nursing staffs of all the municipalities for information.” • Supply continues to be extremely limited, and state officials do not expect to receive an increase in the regular supply for another two weeks. • Most of the various sites administering the vaccines are able to give out the dosages, but are unable to reach their maximum capacity due to supply shortages. • There is widespread acknowledgment that inventory controls at many sites need to improve, so that second dosages are not given away as first dosages, leaving those who were able to get their first dosage scrambling for their second dosage when the time comes. • Valley Hospital has focused on serving the needs of Paramus and Ridgewood residents, but will be expanding its coverage soon. Englewood Hospital is already doing that. • Northwest Bergen Regional Health Organization, which services Hillsdale and many other towns in the northern part of the county, could begin to receive a supply of the vaccine in the future for distribution to their clients, but that is at least

three weeks away, probably longer. • The focus of the state allocation process now is to ensure that concentrated populations of underserved communities are not shut out of vaccine availability. • The governor is expected to be expanding further, over the next several weeks, the list of those who are eligible to receive the vaccine; this is expected to include first line workers (e.g., grocery store employees) and teachers. • The borough will make every effort to keep you informed of key developments in the future through the townwide email system. In the meantime, please continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Preventionʼs guidance on social distancing, mask wearing, and regular hand-washing. Ruocco said, “I know many of us are frustrated by our inability to get an appointment, including myself. I am told that it is always darkest just before the dawn. Stay healthy and safe!” For the latest information on vaccine and testing centers in Bergen County, follow Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco III on social media.

new council members on Jan. 5. McCann said the boroughʼs redevelopment special counsel, Brian Giblin, indicated that the dueling lawsuits were likely to be going soon into court-ordered mediation. He said he could not give a time estimate due to Covid's impacts on court schedules. He said the borough had been pressing for a court-ordered legal monitor to monitor the actions of both parties related to the lawsuit and the redevelopmentʼs progress. He said the redeveloper opposed a monitor though it had previously suggested such an arrangement to help expedite the redevelopment process. In early February, the council introduced an ordinance to be voted on Feb. 16, to secure a “leasehold interest” in Laurel Chinese Restaurant at 182 Kinderkamack Road, as part of its prior

agreement with the redeveloper to undertake eminent domain should a landowner or tenant not come to an agreement with the redeveloper. McCann told Pascack Press that “eventually” both sides may end up taking depositions and that currently there is no end date to the discovery phase of litigation on both parties. He said Gregg Padovano is the presiding Superior Court judge. He said that covid has delayed the lawsuits for eight months and courts have still not returned to normal operations. “You cannot give a developer an open-ended contract and have them build it when they feel like it,” McCann told Pascack Press. He said thatʼs why developer contracts have deadlines. “Do what you said you were going to do and get to work,” he added.

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Emerson: Contract’s ‘no end in sight’ a ‘disservice’ REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS

FEBRUARY 22, 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 may be able to spoof caller ID or an email address so it appears they are

legitimate. When in doubt, do not respond. Instead, alert your provider about the suspicious communication. Learn more about how to spot common scams at.wellsfargo.com/scams. 2. Manage and monitor your credit. If your data has been compromised through a security breach, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file with the three major credit bureaus. Visit consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature0014-identity-theft for more information on identity theft prevention tips and resources you can share with your family.

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

choosing the Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) setting, which is the strongest encryption option.? 5. Stay up to date. Cybercriminals change their tactics frequently, so families should stay on top of the latest threats. Be sure to work with Wells Fargo Advisors and other financial providers to understand ways to protect yourself as you conduct financial business online. Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice. Be sure to consult with your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax consequences. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state. This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director–Investments in Park Ridge at (201) 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.

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FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Sandra Lee RUGGIERO

Sandra Lee Rutherford-Ruggiero of the Township of Washington found peace from this world on Feb. 12, 2021. She was 73. Sandra was born in North Wildwood on Aug. 28, 1947, daughter of Percy and Eleanor Rutherford. Following a happy childhood with her sisters Susan and Tina in Cape May, Sandra attended Fairleigh Dickinson University and was a member of Phi Zeta Kappa, graduating with a degree in education. She was an active part of her local community while raising her children in Paramus, dedicating much of her time to the Parent Teacher Organization and the Paramus Scholarship Show. In later years, Sandra became a major influence in the lives of her grandchildren. She was a loving and doting grandmother, dedicating her life to the needs of those around her. Those who met her were blessed to experience her kind and gentle nature, and she will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Sandra is survived by her loving daughter, Michele, sons-in-law Padraig and Michael, and her grandchildren Jake, Emily and Cecelia. She watches over them with her daughter Jeanette, and her sisters Susan and Tina.

OBITUARIES

Depression and World War II, but remembered her childhood and teen years with fondness. Evelyn graduated at the top of her class from Kearny High School at 16. She married William Baillie from Kearny and raised her four children in Paramus. Evelyn worked as the first female underwriter for Aetna Life & Casualty in the 1940s and quit for another job when the company hired a co-worker at a higher salary. She retired from the Paramus High School Guidance Department, where she assisted several thousand students with college applications. At 53, while working full time, she obtained her associate of arts degree. Although divorced after 25 years, Evelyn and William remained friends and celebrated many holidays and happy occasions together. In retirement, Evelyn became a world traveler visiting every country in Europe, as well as Egypt, India, Russia, Japan, China, Singapore, Canada, Brazil and many others. She was in awe of the Ancient and Modern Wonders of the World. Evelyn was also an avid golfer until 88 and fulfilled a dream of playing 18 holes at The Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland. She was Bergen County Senior Champion for two years during the 1990s. Evelyn took special interest in all family members, including nieces and nephews, and had multiple lifelong friendships including her pen pal from Scotland since age 12. They were thrilled to meet for the first time at 60. She was a willing and trusted babysitter for her adored grandkids and supported all family and friends in times of need. Evelyn was loved and admired by all as determined, accepting, and humble—a person of the highest integrity. She is survived by her loving children: Douglas Baillie (Dory), Janice Baillie (Keith Loynachan), Leigh Baillie (Bruce Cohen), and

Joan Lamond (John). Dearest grandmother to Douglas, Michael, Scott, Sonya, Tracy, Isaac, Paul and Jack. She is also survived by six great-grandchildren, her loving sister, Isabella McCarthy, and many nieces and nephews. Memorial donations can be made to The Center for Food Action, cfanj.org.

Virginia NAPPI

vived by her beloved husband Vaughn; her adored son Matthew and his wife Stephanie; her cherished granddaughter Annabelle; her siblings Diane Mone and her husband Dominick, Joanne Gannon and her husband John, Dawn Kranzo and her husband Al, and Gary Quirsfeld; as well as her nieces and nephews Chris, Kimberly, Michelle, and Gregory. She is predeceased by her parents Francis Fitzpatrick and Anne Quirsfeld; her stepfather Donald Quirsfeld, and her grandparents Hans and Anna Rotschka. Nancy graduated from Westwood High School and the Katherine Gibbs College, starting her working career in her familyʼs restaurant, The Iron Kettle, in Montvale. She worked for Blue Mountain Industries in South Hackensack before devoting many years to being the administrator for the Woodcliff Lake Police Department. She was heavily involved in their D.A.R.E. Program, the Our Lady Mother of the Church CCD program, and volunteered as a teacherʼs assistant for The Forum School in Waldwick. Memorial contributions can be made in Nancyʼs name to the Semper Fi Fund at SemperFiFund.org/donate.

Virginia Nappi (née Lipuzcoa) of Westwood passed away on Jan. 30, 2021. Beloved wife of the late Vincent J. Loving mother of Vincent (Lynn), Sandra, Julie Crimmins (James) and Marie. Proud grandmother of Mathew, Ryan and Daniel Crimmins and Mia and Ava Nappi. Ginny grew up in Cliffside Park and then moved to Closter where she spent over 20 years raising her children, enjoying pool parties and barbecues. Ginny was often found making Sunday gravy and cheering for her favorite sport of football. She enjoyed socializing and talking for hours to her girlfriends and sharing memories of the “good old days” with her family. Minda She loved spending time with LARSEN her grandchildren and taking trips Minda Larsen of the Townwith her devoted daughters to Atlantic City, especially on ship of Washington, 104, passed Motherʼs Day. She will be greatly away on Friday, Feb. 12, 2021. Minda is survived missed. by her loving son Evelyn Jan and his wife Nancy E. BAILLIE Teri; her grandFLOWER children Paul and Evelyn “Shevy” Baillie of his wife Marie, Nancy E. Flower (née FitzWestwood was born in Newark in Scott and his wife patrick), 68, of 1925 to Isabella Margaret, Kari Woodcliff Lake, and Edward Kaiser Janes and her formerly of Westand died Feb. 13, wood, passed away husband Charlie, Minda Briley 2021. on Tuesday, Feb. 9, and her husband Brett and Tina She was raised 2021 with her fam- Ventura and her husband in Kearny with her Joseph; her great-grandchildren ily by her side. sister, “Babe,” durNancy is sur- Jonathan, Timmy, Meagan, ing the Great Troy, Grace, Madison, Lauren, Reidun, Larsen and Brandon; as well as her great-great-grandchildren Jude and Leif. She is predeceased by her dear husband, Captain Frederick; daughter Sandra Hosay; and her five brothers and four sisters. Minda immigrated from Lista, Norway, to Brooklyn, New York, settling in the Township of Washington in the 1950s. She was a founding member of the Lutheran Church of the Saviour in Paramus, and volunteered many years as a receptionist at Bergen Pines Hospital. Minda was very proud of her husbandʼs military service. Random House published a book, “At All Costs,” detailing the familyʼs harrowing tale of coming to Choice in-ground and new mausoleum sites available America through the International COMPARE OUR PRICES! Red Cross Prisoner Of War Exchange. Veteranʼs Discount Available

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Lucy WALLACE

Lucy Wallace (née Amatrula) of Park Ridge died peacefully in her sleep on Monday, Feb. 8, 2021. She was 90. Lucy grew up in Dumont and was a graduate of Dumont High School class of 1948. She was the oldest of three children, predeceased by her brother, Michael Amatrula of Dumont, and survived by her sister, Angie Amorese of Point Pleasant. Michaelʼs wife, Myra Amatrula of Dumont, was a dear friend to Lucy and also survives her. Lucy married in 1950 to her beloved husband Corwin “Corky” Wallace, who preceded her in death in 1996. Together they raised four children, all graduates of Park Ridge High School: Terry, Steve, Jim, and Nancy. Lucy was grandmother to five grandchildren: Wendy Rudderforth, Kelly Peden, Julie Thiry-Couvillion, Emily Wallace, and Jimmy Wallace. She also was great-grandmother to Chloe and Dylan Rudderforth.

Ellen SEXTON

Ellen Sexton (née Dowd), 84, of Hillsdale passed away peacefully in her home on Monday, Feb. 8, 2021. Ellen was born on Oct. 15, 1936 in Ireland to Thomas and Nora Dowd. She was predeceased by her loving husThomas band, Sexton. Ellen was a wonderful, generous, and caring woman. She was a devoted wife, sister, aunt, sister-in-law, friend, and mentor. Ellen supported multiple organizations and causes such as veterans, animal shelters, and childrenʼs hospitals. Ellen always helped out those around her. She enjoyed feeding the birds, deer, and squirrels, as well as planting and admiring flowers in her garden.

Ryan J. DANLASKY

Ryan Joseph Danlasky has entered into Heaven at the young age of 26. Ryan graduated from Pascack Hills High School in Montvale and went on to graduate from Lincoln Technical Institute. Ryan is the beloved son of Kevin M. Danlasky of Mahwah. Adored grandson of Madeline and the late Donald Danlasky. In addition, Ryan leaves behind his aunt Stacy and cousin Benjamin. Ryanʼs infectious smile was a joy to all. Those who truly knew CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

• During her online presentation “Taxes & Portfolios in 2021,” financial specialist Debra Taylor will discuss major tax law changes, estate planning, and tax breaks everyone should know about. Via Zoom Thursday, Feb. 25 from 7–8 p.m. Register online. • Join the Montvale Library for four relaxing Virtual Guided Meditation sessions led by certified instructor Amy Rutledge. No experience necessary. Register for as many sessions as you want: March 2, 9, 15, and/or 21 from 7–7:30 p.m. Class is held virtually via Zoom; register online. • The library will hosting a Sunflower Tray Pottery Project via Zoom Thursday, March 4 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Pick up your pottery clay kit and make a sunflower tray during this live session. The instructor will fire and glaze your creation. Pick it up at the library afterwards! Registration required. FROM PAGE 12

PARK RIDGE 51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org • A new Senior Exercise Class premieres on the libraryʼs Facebook page (Park Ridge Public Library-NJ) Monday, Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. A full-body exercise program for varied mobility levels. Visit the libraryʼs Facebook page to join in.

• Miss Renee Reads the Classics for Kids on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Visit the libraryʼs Facebook for the best classic books in kid-friendly versions. • Storytime with Miss Sherri Thursdays at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook page (Park Ridge Public Library-NJ). Stories, songs and a craft for little ones. • Crafts with Miss Renee Fridays at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook. You must call the library the Monday–Thursday before the craft to reserve your craft kit and it must be picked up that day. All ages are invited to participate as Miss Renee walks you through a fun craft at home. • Book It Club with Miss Eileen is on Facebook Live Saturdays from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Stories, science and more geared towards kids in primary grades. RIVER VALE 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org • Pick up a Winter Craft-toGo for your child to complete at home. For the week of Feb. 22 itʼs a beaded snowflake. One craft per child, for kids in pre-K through fifth grade. Supplies are limited; crafts are first come, first served. • Qigong for Health and Wellbeing, an exercise series for all ages, meets on Zoom each Tuesday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Qigong works the body as a whole

OBITUARIES Ryan admired his undeniable courage and tremendous strength throughout his brief life. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Ryanʼs memory to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital.

FROM PAGE 30

Dolores F. MOREA

Dolores Florence Morea (née Falkerson), 82, of Park Ridge passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021. Dolores is survived by her husband of 28 years, Anthony Morea; her beloved children Dawn, Devi, Sean and Rich and her grandchildren Elizabeth, William, Amanda and AnneMarie. She is also survived by siblings Joan and Kevin. She is preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Ann Falkerson and brothers Rich and Daniel. Before retiring, Dolores was a data entry administrator for BMW Corp. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed traveling with her husband.

Carmela J. FERRITO

Carmela Joan Ferrito, 90, of Cresskill, passed away Jan.

31, 2021. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., she was the wife of Joseph S. Ferrito. Carmela earned her B.S. in pharmacy and M.S. in pharmacy administration from St. Johnʼs University. She served as director of pharmacy at Pascack Valley Hospital in Westwood for 28 years. She paved the path for many women in her field, serving as a talented leader and mentor to many. Carmela was married for 66 years to her beloved husband Joe. She was an incredibly loving mother, wife, grandmother, aunt and friend to all. She had a strong sense of civic responsibility, volunteering not only at the hospital but also on Cresskill Borough committees including the Drug and Alcohol Municipal Alliance and the Senior Citizens Center Board of Trustees. She was a founding member and trustee of the Cresskill Education Foundation and was a constant presence at their fund-raising activities. She was also a member of the Cresskill Womenʼs Club. For many years she volunteered at the John Harms Theatre as an usher. She loved painting and reading, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family. From Sunday dinners to summers by the pool, her home

and heart were the epicenter of family gatherings. Carmela is survived by her husband and three children, Frances (Jim), Salvatore (Isabelle), and John (Michele). She also leaves behind six g r a n d c h i l d r e n — K i m b e r l y, James, Marissa, Kaitlynn, Nicole, and Joseph—as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and nephews, and cousins. Services were private. Memorial donations to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital would be appreciated.

Helen CHESELKA

Helen Cheselka of Westwood, beloved wife of the late George Cheselka for almost 60 treasured years and blessed with three sons, George Jr., Peter, and Paul, passed away on Feb. 8, 2021. Helen was the sister of Magdaline (deceased) and Ann. She is survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Helen was a former employee of AT&T as a commercial representative in the engineering department. She also was a charter member and volunteer assistant treasurer of the White Plains Long Lines Federal Credit Union. Later in life, Helen was employed as a teacherʼs aide in the Pascack Valley Special Education Program.

craft to do at home. For grades pre-K to fifth. One craft per child; supplies are limited. • “Potting up Plants” is an illustrated look into the rich history and various styles of flower pots as well as the universal garden wisdom provided by these vessels. Columnist Linda Larson (“A Traveling Gardener”) presents beautiful images from gardens of the world in a virtual lecture via Zoom, Monday, March 1 from 11 a.m. to noon. Register online. • River Vale Readers Book Club (grades 2–3) will meet on Zoom Tuesday, March 2 from 4 to 4:30 p.m. to discuss “Ivy and Bean” (Book 1) by Annie Barrows. Register online. • Young children can practice their reading skills and gain confidence in their abilities by Reading to Lucy the Therapy Dog. Book a 15-minute appointment for Wednesday, March 3 or March 10, between 4 and 5 p.m. Program is held through Zoom; registration form is on the libraryʼs website. • The River Vale Library presents Kenneth J. Serfass, gunnery sergeant USMC, ret., as Gen. U.S. Grant, discussing the “Life and Myths of Ulysses S. Grant.” Learn the story of one of Americaʼs greatest military leaders at this Zoom lecture set for Wednesday, March 3 from 7 to 8 p.m. Register online for access. • Virtual Bingo for grades 1–5 is on Zoom Thursday, March 4 from 4 to 5 p.m. Play Bingo from home for a chance to win a prize. Register online and then pick up your Bingo sheets at the library starting Monday, March 1. TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586 twpofwashingtonpl.org • Chair Yoga for Everyone, presented by Apple Rose Yoga, is offered free for Washington Township library patrons on Mondays at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Note: There is no session Feb. 22. Visit the libraryʼs website for information. • Latte with a Librarian is on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on Facebook Live. Allyssa talks about her favorite titles and new releases. Participate and share your lattes and current reads via chat. • Book Cooks Club is on Facebook Wednesdays at noon. Join Allyssa as she invites you into her kitchen to cook up a new dish. Recipes posted the week prior. • STEAM Thursdays, a program for school-age kids, is every Thursday at 4 p.m. Each week the kids make a craft or try a science experiment. Links on Facebook, YouTube and library website. • Winter Story Times are posted weekly on Facebook, YouTube, and the libraryʼs website. Music, reading, puppets and

flannel board stories educate and entertain. Register online. Infants/toddlers: Fridays at 10 a.m. Preschoolers: Tuesdays at 10 a.m. • Take the libraryʼs Read Across America BINGO Challenge from March 1–5. Visit the libraryʼs website to print a BINGO board of reading activities to try during the week. Get BINGO and pick up a prize at the library. • Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! Join the library on Zoom Tuesday, March 2 at 4 p.m. for a fun Dr. Seuss Trivia Game that families can play together. Register to receive the link. Prizes can be picked up at the library.

WESTWOOD 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org • Intro to Scratch Coding on Zoom (grades 1–3) continues Tuesday, Feb. 23 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. Meets weekly in February. Register online. • Teen Game Night is the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Next date: Feb. 23. Grab some friends and log onto Zoom to compete in different games every month. Grades 6–12. Register for Zoom access. • In the childrenʼs Financial Literacy series, grades 3–5 learn the importance of money through basic education, interactive games and fun lessons. Fourth session is on Zoom Wednesday, Feb. 24 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Register online. • In “Women March,” an interactive virtual presentation by the NY Historical Society, discover 200 years of womenʼs activism through photos, campaign posters, and historic footage. On Zoom Wednesday, Feb. 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. Register online for access. • Java Coding (grades 4–5) is Thursday, Feb. 25 from 4:30 tp 5:30 p.m. on Zoom. Register online. • The latest Coffee & Conversation series continues Friday morning, Feb. 26 from 10 to 11 a.m. (also March 5 and 12). The series features Playing on Air, a podcast dedicated to sharing great short theater with the public. Each week the group listens to and discusses one of the plays. Register online. • Bendy Bookworm (ages 1–5) meets on Zoom Friday, Feb. 26 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Little ones learn easy yoga poses while interacting with a story. Register online for access. • The library hosts a Vegetarian Cooking Webinar via Zoom on Sunday, Feb. 28 from 4 to 5 p.m. Learn how to make two quick and easy vegetarian dinners. Ingredient list will be provided ahead of time. Registration is required.

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FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Library Calendar

with movement, breathing practices, and mindfulness. Visit the libraryʼs website to sign up. • Bookworms Story Time Club (grades K–1) is a virtual book club for early readers. On Tuesday, Feb. 23 from 4 to 4:30 p.m., the group will gather on Zoom to read aloud “Rosa” by Nikki Gionvanni and complete an activity together. Pre-register on the libraryʼs website and then pick up your childʼs activity kit. • Join the River Vale Library for a virtual history lecture about the Underground Railroad with historian, educator, and lecturer Alvin Q. Corbett. “From Slavery to Freedom: Logistics of the New Jersey Underground Railroad” is on Zoom Wednesday, Feb. 24 from 6 to 7 p.m. Register online. • Winter Story Time with Miss Tyne is on Zoom Thursday, Feb. 25 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Stories, songs and fun for toddlers and pre-K. Registration required for each session. Story time crafts can be picked up at the beginning of each week to do at home. • The Virtual Knit & Crochet Club will meet on Zoom Friday, Feb. 26 from 10 a.m. to noon. Bring a project to work on and chat with other members. New members of all skill levels are welcome. Register online for access. • Celebrate International Polar Bear Day with a special Weekend Craft-to-go on Saturday, Feb. 27. Stop by the library that day to pick up a polar bear

FEBRUARY 22, 2021 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS