Pascack Press 10.27.20 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

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Emerson • Hillsdale • Montvale • Park Ridge • River Vale • Township of Washington • Westwood • Woodcliff Lake VOLUME 24 ISSUE 33

WHO’S ENGAGED?

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 WESTWOOD

NOVEMBER 2, 2020

Covid economy claims fundraising thrift shop after 63-year run BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Westwood’s Brittany Marie Sambogna to marry Dietmar Richter. SEE PAGE 16

WESTWOOD

B OROUGH

TO V O T E ON D R O N E S Police chief backs action Nov. 24

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

An incident with a drone earlier this year put the increasingly popular aerial surveillance tools on the Borough Councilʼs radar. Hoping to address safety and privacy concerns raised in a local incident involving a child, the council introduced an ordinance by unanimous vote on Oct. 20 to regulate small unmanned aerial vehicles in airspace below 400 feet. That airspace is unregulated by the Federal Aviation Administration. The ordinance does not prohibit the authorized and lawful operation and use of small unmanned aircraft for commercial, business, educational, scientific, research, environmental, and personal purposes “pursuant to and in accordance with applicable regulations.”

See Drones on page 194

Itʼs a sad ending to a 63-year success story, as Our Thrift Shop, at 245 Old Hook Road, finds itself with only weeks left to serve. The last day of sales is Nov. 15. The lease is up at the end of the month. Local charities have pledged to make good use of whatever remains after the final retail push—though itʼs not clear how organizers are going to get the heavier fixtures out. “Due to the pandemic and the loss of revenue for over six months, we have been unable to stay in business,” said Suzi Gerace, an artist and designer, on behalf of manager Vivien Woodford, 94, and a dwindling roster of other volunteers. Woodford told Pascack Press on Oct. 28, “Iʼm sad. It was this pandemic.” Our Thrift Shop was originally a fundraiser for the Pascack Valley Hospital. When the hospital closed in 2007 it reopened to benefit the nonprofit Art School at Old Church in Demarest. Our Thrift Shopʼs five showrooms are rich in affordable quality clothing, shoes and accessories, housewares, books, childrenʼs items, works of art, and more—all packed into 2,500 square feet. The shop is having a liquidation sale and everything must go. All clothing is $2 and all other merchandise is at greatly reduced

prices. The shop will be open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Please come and see us and take advantage of the great bargains. For safety purposes we are taking temperatures, using hand sanitizer and are requiring masks and social distancing. We will also be selling racks, bookcases and other store fixtures,” Gerace said. She added, “It has been a pleasure to take generous donations and distribute them to our local residents. We will miss you all.” Garace told Pascack Press, “In March, when we closed, we had rent of more than $5,000 a month. We had all these expenses and no income. The landlord cut the rent for a while, but then when we opened in September—with temperature checks at the door, restricted occupancy, hand sanitizer and other precautions—our staff didnʼt want to come to work. And he [landlord Nick Theisz] wanted his money.” She added, “A lot of our people are older volunteers, so their health is at risk. Vivien canʼt really be exposed to strangers coming in and out of the door; we we keep OUT IN THE COLD: Our Thrift Shop’s elegant mannequin, her home and try to protect her so modeling fashions of the season, catches the eye on Old Hook Road on a wet Oct. 28 morning. The store is closing. that sheʼs not with the masses.” She said receipts have been Gerace said the Salvation and a mission to Haiti. “We donʼt about $200 a day since reopening. Army, the Lions Club, and the want it to go into the landfill; “Itʼs not enough. The best American Veterans have promised people can be using it.” thing would be for people to come to put leftover goods to work, and She added, “At one point we and buy our stuff so we can get rid that Our Thrift Shop supports a had 30 or so volunteers, and now of it,” she said. thrift store in southern Vermont

TOP PHOTO CREDIT JOHN SNYDER

Continued on page 38

KID POWER

B ck in time...

It’s not all screen time these days as Hillsdale neighbors band together to clean up around Beechwood Park. SEE PAGE 14

Hayseeders, Commuters square off! Foresters’ Hall on Kinderkamack Road was the site of Park Ridge’s first local election.

SEE PAGE 4

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Thanks from candidate Pontilllo

To the editor: I THANK ALL of the people who have offered support, inspiration, words of encouragement

and passed my message along during the WWRSD BOE campaign. It has been a pleasure to find what people are seeking from our schools and to learn that I am seeking many of those same things. From the very beginning, I set a course that would explain my platform of Responsibility, Transparency and Safety and how these pillars would benefit all of the children in our school system. I have intelligently explained all of the reasons to place your vote for me, not a single reason not to vote for anyone else. I have explained that we need a new level of financial responsibility so that seniors can age in place, while we also elevate the performance of the district in order to give our kids the tools they need to succeed in the future. I have sent mailers, placed signs, talked to people and interviewed on Facebook live. There has been thoughtful consideration

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of how the ideas that I have would not only affect the district, but would benefit it. I have created discussions and worked to get people to examine how things are going in this district from a different perspective. I believe that I have a unique skill set that would be a tremendous asset to the Westwood Regional Board of Education. My public sector leadership experience gives me a unique perspective and a skill set that does not currently exist on the board. I do not believe that Westwood should follow other districts, we should set the example of how a district should operate. We have the faculty, facilities and the finances to do more than we have been and our kids deserve the best. Our kids are our future. Their education could not be more important, especially with the times we are living in. Thank you to all of my supporters. Thank you to the people who have paid closer attention to the BOE meetings and what is going on with our schools. I am hopeful to have the opportunity to serve on the Westwood Regional Board of Education. Should I be granted that opportunity, I will

not let this community down. If you like what you have seen and heard, remember to Vote Mike P for BOE! Michael R. Pontillo Westwood

Wanner: Pontillo for school board

To the editor: THESE DAYS ALMOST everything we hear or read by or about a candidate for office is an opinion tainted with biased facts or perspectives, leaving it to each individual to decipher a truth. Itʼs with that understanding one has to wonder why so few look beyond pandering words, and assess a candidateʼs life, experiences and results. They can usually offer a historical base to results one might expect. In this coming election we have two less than perfect individuals vying for the ballotʼs top job, with two pressing issues: Covid19 and the economy. But then again we all know voting choices are rarely straight forward, and

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

typically have more complicated ramifications. They come down to money, services and community. The ballot has a line of choices that includes state and local candidates. Depending on those choices we will all be affected financially in some form or another. Itʼs a decision that remains important even at the bottom of Westwoodʼs ballot, in regards to a school board seat. There you elect an individual to look after your childrenʼs education, safety, and for an effective value to the property taxes expensed in those tasks. When you consider the three choices needed for Westwoodʼs council, theyʼll only affect 30.7% of each property ownerʼs total tax bill. The schoolʼs portion is 59.2%. It highlights the importance of who we elect, if we want quality in services and value. Fortunately Michael Pontillo, a school board candidate whoʼs a father and a frontline leader in public safety, will make that last choice easier. Having worked with him in police union negotiations over a decade ago before he became chief, he understood the needs of his men first and foremost, while CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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Planning Board Applications • Montvale Family Apartments, Summit Avenue: This application was approved at the Oct. 20 meeting. The applicant proposes the construction of two residential buildings with a total of 25 affordable apartments as well as related site improvements on the north side of Summit Avenue at the intersection with Craig Road. • Waypoint Residential: Revised plans were submitted to the board on Oct. 16 with a continuation of the public hearing scheduled for a future date. The applicant proposes the construction of an active adult, 157-unit threestory residential building over 186-garage level parking spaces to the immediate east of the Summit Ridge development on the north side of Summit Avenue. The applicant has also proposed a seven-space gravel parking area at the east end of the property that will be accessible to the public from Summit Avenue and include interconnecting walking trails.

units at 2 Paragon Dr. • North Market/Triboro (former Mercedes property):

Foundation location surveys for Buildings 1, 2 and 3 were submitted to Maser engineers for review

and approval and are in compliance with the approved plans. Work continues on Phase One of

this project which also includes the interior roadways and CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

Planning Board Inspection Projects • Village Springs at Montvale (Former A&P Site): Work continues with utility and site work. This project includes the construction of 80 townhouse

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Via Mayor Michael Ghassali in his emailed update to residents on Oct. 25:

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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PASCACK VALLEY The Pascack Historical Society invites members of the public to stop by its museum any Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free. The Societyʼs John C. Storms Museum is located at 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge (one block north of Park Avenue West). 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. The latest exhibit, “Their World: Woman Suffrage in the Pascack Valley,” commemorates the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment that gave women the right to vote. The exhibit runs until Nov. 15. Please note: 1) Masks must be worn by all visitors; 2) Visitors must avoid touching any surfaces as they move about the museum; and 3) The meeting room, Berdais Hall, will be closed to the public. There is no access to the bathrooms. For more information, visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org and follow the museum on Facebook.

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SERVICES

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B ck in time... AN EXPLOSIVE ELECTION AS A BOROUGH IS BORN BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF PASCACK PRESS

“FORESTERSʼ HALL IS the site of the greatest excitement ever witnessed in this place during an election,” begins an 1894 New York Evening World article covering Park Ridgeʼs first-ever election for mayor and council. If you were a voter in Park Ridge in the 1890s, the building pictured at top right is where you have would gone to cast your election ballot. Called James Wield Forestersʼ Hall, it was on Kinderkamack Road (then known as Magnolia Avenue) across from Madison Avenue. The headquarters of a fraternal organization called The Ancient Order of Foresters, the building constructed in 1889 quickly became an important meeting place in town and the site of many Park Ridge “firsts.” The fire department held its organizational meeting there. The first motion pictures to be shown in the Pascack Valley were screened at this location. In 1894, citizens met on the second floor to cast their votes, 95–49, for Park Ridge to break from the Township of Washington to form a borough. Later that same year the election of the first mayor took place, also at Forestersʼ Hall. Park Ridgeʼs male population—for it was only men who were allowed to vote in elections in those days—came out in full force to cast their ballots in what was an exceedingly contentious election. The competing tickets highlighted the ideological divide that

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

existed in Park Ridge (and really, the Pascack Valley in general) in the late 19th century. On one side there was the Peopleʼs Party, whom the opposition condescendingly dubbed “The Hayseeders.” This was the population of old farming families that wanted to keep life as it was and who had been opposed to incorporating as a borough in the FORESTERS’ HALL on Kinderkamack Road was the site of Park first place. Their Ridge’s first local election, as well as other milestones. choice for Revolutionary War cannon, party. mayor was Dr. brought it home and shot it off In those days mayoral terms Henry C. Neer, repeatedly in downtown Park lasted just one year as opposed to the local physi- Ridge. todayʼs four years. When Neer ran cian. Neerʼs term ended up being again in 1895, the old doctor came Then there was the shortest in borough history. out on top. He served as the borthe Citizensʼ The Citizensʼ Party successfully Party, the newly had the election results invaliHenry Neer planted popula- dated, and a new vote took tion of New York businessmen place a couple of months later. who favored modernization, espe- This time Wield was the wincially in terms of education and ner. local services. Their choice for In a turn of events no less mayor was James Wield, a bobbin bizarre than the aforementioned manufacturer. The farmers dis- cannon episode, Wieldʼs supdainfully nicknamed them the “Commuter Party.” Election Day was an intense affair, and the coverage even made it into New York newspapers. The New York Evening World reported, “Tuesdayʼs contest between the ʻHayseedersʼ and ʻCommutersʼ was of the hottest kind, and so close that neither side knew which one was successful until the last ballot was counted. John P. Herring was the last MAKE YOUR CHOICE: The 1894 Park Ridge election tickets for man to vote. He voted the the Citizens’ Party (Commuters) and People’s Party (Hayseeders). ʻHayseedʼ ticket and Dr. The originals are preserved at the Pascack Historical Society. Neer was elected by one vote.” porters held a torchlight parade, oughʼs second mayor from The World goes on to say that accompanied by a marching band, 1895–1896. Dr. Neerʼs friends were so jubilant to the mayorʼs house and serenadThe former location of over his success that they went to ed him. Wield made a speech and Forestersʼ Hall was eventually Rockland County, retrieved an old then invited everyone inside for a replaced by stores and apartments.

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Publisher Editor Assistant Editor Art Director Director of Advertising

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

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

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Suez North America announced on Oct. 28 that the drinking water in its Northern New Jersey system meets federal standards for lead. The news comes after a twoyear, $65 million effort in which the company tackled the issue on multiple fronts. Twenty-five crews, some working six days a week, removed thousands of lead service lines. Water quality experts installed cutting-edge testing equipment that led to enhanced water treatment. Thousands of customers took advantage of the companyʼs offer to test the water inside their homes for free. Director of Communications Debra Vial said in a press release that the company is not slowing down. “Next week, Suez will reach an important milestone—the removal of the 5,000th lead line. Crews have already swept through 47 municipalities. Company officials said the work in the lab and in the field will continue until all of its lead is removed from the companyʼs system. “In fact, SUEZ will spend $20 million next year to remove thousands more lead pipes and further improve corrosion control,” Vial said. Alan Weland, vice president and general manager of the system, which serves 870,000 residents in Bergen and Hudson counties, said, “We are pleased to announce these results, but our work is not done. We want to get

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

DEVELOPER SEEKS OPTIONS AS RESIDENTS RALLY OVER 450 PASCACK ROAD

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

A 3.2-acre strip of land at 450 Pascack Road that residents and local officials have recently discussed preserving as either open space or land for future school expansion is now listed as “available” in a sign posted on site by a commercial real estate broker.

The residents have been appealing to the governing body for urgent action before the land is out of reach and developed, they say to their and the townshipʼs detriment. Earlier this summer, Lakos Construction Inc., owned by Nick Tsapatsaris, proposed a 48-unit senior complex on the property, which is situated between Ridgewood Boulevard East and a public elementary school and well-used

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AVAILABLE: On Oct. 19, the Township Council heard from five residents urging action to preserve this property as open space or for future school expansion or use.

recreational field on its northern border. In an Oct. 27 email to Pascack Press, the propertyʼs developer said the “available” sign advertising the property was part of its effort to explore “development options” for the property.

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“Most compelling, however, since Covid-19, is the desire of families to move from New York City to large properties such as this one, so we have listed the property for sale as we explore all of our development options and next steps,” Tsapatsaris told Pas-

www.hillsdalevisioncenter.com

cack Press. Tsapatsaris is principal of Lakos Construction Inc., the entity that signed an agreement for control of development at 450 Pascack Road. On Oct. 19, the Township Council heard from five residents urging action to preserve the property as open space or for future school expansion or use. Area homeowners have opposed the Lakos Construction Inc. proposal for a 48-unit indeCONTINUED ON PAGE 25

WWRSD

Project Graduation clothing drive Dec. 6

The Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School Class of 2021 is hosting a clothing drive to raise money for Project Graduation. Covid-19 has significantly limited the options the students have to raise money for their class, so this one really counts. The drive runs Dec. 6 from 8 a.m. to noon at the high schoolʼs front parking lot, 701 Ridgewood Road. Accepted: clothing, boots, and shoes of all sizes, and bedding and stuffed animals, all clean and in bags.

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NOVEMBER 2, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Group pushes for renewed effort on diversity, inclusion BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACK VALLEY

An area pastor, chief diversity officer, and mental health advocate hosted a virtual conversation Oct. 15 to explore ways to build and maintain “an inclusive community” in Pascack Valley, following a summer of racial unrest nationwide and thefts of Black Lives Matter signs and property damage in Hillsdale. The 80-minute conversation

was sponsored by PV CORE, or Pascack Valley Coalition of Rights and Equity, founded in July by Black residents and allies of all color to help bring about a more inclusive Pascack Valley. The dialogue was held to focus “on the celebration, education, and understanding of different identities and experiences,” said a PV CORE event invitation. PV CORE member Robyn Mate told Pascack Press that PV CORE includes nearly 300 members of all races, including many people of color in Hillsdale, and

that similar online discussions, often uncomfortable discussions on race and inclusion, need to be held in every Pascack Valley community and “every community everywhere that is struggling to make their community more diverse and inclusive.” Mate said the group is pressing Hillsdale to start a boroughsponsored Diversity and Inclusion Committee to help address such issues. Initially, she said some local officials expressed interest, but nothing happened, and she lauded

Montvaleʼs efforts to set up a diversity and inclusion committee, initiated there by a young resident calling on the borough to be more inclusive. Reacting to Hillsdaleʼs sign thefts, the local police department has been praised by public officials and social justice activists alike for their immediate, caring and professional response to residents affected by sign thefts and property damage. Hillsdale detectives continue to investigate the thefts, which Mayor John Ruocco has attributed to one or two individuals. In addition, Hillsdaleʼs mayor and council are looking to reinvigorate a Unity in the Valley coalition begun in 2019 with Pascack Valley towns “to highlight the need for greater appreciation of the things that bind our region together as a community, and to celebrate our differences rather than fear them,” Ruocco said Oct. 6 at a council meeting. Ruocco was responding then to a PV CORE email (a link can be found on the councilʼs Oct. 6 agenda) repeating their call for a local diversity and inclusion committee. PV COREʼs email notes members “feel strongly that this region needs to address issues of racism, homophobia, antiSemitism, racial-messaging theft, vandalism, and hate/bias speech in the community and should work on initiatives that include antiracism, diversity, inclusivity and equity support.” After the discussion, Pascack Press asked panelists what advice they might offer community leaders to address Hillsdaleʼs recent BLM sign thefts and vandalism. Beato said there should be

“massive ramifications for that type of behavior” and noted “leaders have an obligation to address these issues” and said the issue becomes “a very different thing when someone feels they are fully entitled to do something that is harmful to someone else.” Christ Lutheran Church Pastor Marc Stutzel, a panelist, said people “who act in this way feel entitled to do this… having someone say no is a very important and very powerful thing that needs to be done.” Beato, a Montvale resident and chief diversity officer at McCann Worldwide, defined the terms diversity and inclusion and said that unless “we come together and focus primarily on our collective interests, we lose the opportunity that we all feel secure because weʼre not working together.” She noted many factors affect the “public reputation” of an area and that a community being in sync on shared values such as the local economy, property values, family, children, schools, and children's future success is critical. Beato, also a candidate for a seat on Pascack Valley Regional Board of Education, opposes former Borough Councilman Michael Weaver on Nov. 3. Beato noted that the Pascack Valleyʼs “public reputation has implications for all residents.” Beato briefly noted prior publicized concerns from 2015 through 2020 related to bias and racism cited by the media and discussed on social media. She said if residents in the valley work together on common interests “together we do well” CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

A long-stalled and controversial plan to construct 73 housing units—including 48 single-family homes and 25 townhomes—on a 14-acre property, is likely to be heard by the Planning Board before yearʼs end, say citizens from a group calling for more oversight of the development.

Sources watching plan progress told Pascack Press that the applicant hoped to get the application before the board in November, or by December at the latest. The development plan began almost two decades ago and has been detoured by a series of challenges: from settling affordable housing requirements and wastewater concerns to pandemic-related delays and threats of builderʼs remedy lawsuits against the town-

ship. The developer also has filed a succession of delays, and bailed on special meetings, fraying some Planning Board membersʼ patience. In July 2019 board member Tom Sears moved that presenters for the late James A. Viviano and his assigns attend regular Planning Board meetings. “This meeting was was supposed to be for Viviano. Itʼs been consistent with them for not showing up or pushing the meeting off.

I am making a motion before this board that they attend the regular Planning Board meetings,” Sears said. He added, “I feel enough is enough. We all have lives to live. We canʼt be catering strictly to one individual person in this township—or developer.” Mayor Peter Calamari said, “Before we vote on that officially Iʼd like to say the prior chairman [August Calamari], who everybody knows is my dad, through

the years heʼs always said to me on Viviano that part of the settlement—I donʼt know how much of the settlement is in effect or not—part of it is that he was guaranteed special meetings at their discretion.” The initial development approval for the Viviano property at 463 Van Emburgh Ave., or American Dream Estates, was approved in 2004. In 2002, the land owner had agreed to reimCONTINUED ON PAGE 23

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FALL COULD BRING ACTION ON AMERICAN DREAM ESTATES

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Should you replace your tooth with a dental implant or not? How do you answer that question?

Should you replace your tooth with a dental implant or not? How do you answer that question? You should replace your PRIYU GUPTA, DDS, tooth with a WESTWOOD dental implant PERIODONTICS if no other treatment option can save your tooth. To replace your tooth should be the last option considered. A dental implant is a replacement option, not a treatment option. I am Dr. Priyu Gupta, Board Certified Periodontist and Dental

Implant Surgeon. A periodontist is a dental implant surgeon specializing in the gum and bone, the supporting structures of your teeth. A periodontist is a dental surgeon, not an oral surgeon. An oral surgeon is vastly trained outside of the oral cavity. They can perform extensive procedures like jaw reconstructions and even treat oral cancer. A periodontist is a surgeon of the teeth and only trained to save them or replace them with dental implants. My specialty, periodontics, is more specific to saving teeth and dental implant therapy. During my surgical training, the question, “Should we save the tooth or replace with an implant?”

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was always asked of me. My professorsʼ intent was to challenge my thinking and ability to grow as a periodontist. We were taught that a dental implant is the last resort to therapy when all other options have been considered. During training to be a periodontist, we are taught many forms of therapy to salvage natural teeth suffering from gum and bone diseases. That is the purpose of a periodontist. There are several options for managing and maintaining declining teeth. For instance, lost gum

and bone on teeth can be regenerated to make them stronger. Or, if the teeth have gotten loose, a periodontist can stabilize the occlusion and control disease to delay tooth loss. This is the salient difference between an oral surgeon and a periodontist. Periodontists are the only specialists recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) as a dental implant surgeon. Many specialties and even general dentists have incorporated this within the services they pro-

vide, but only periodontists have the formal education and training. Most of my practice is dental implant surgery, and the remaining is focused on surgical therapy to save teeth. Before you opt for replacement, it is best to get an opinion from a periodontal surgeon who may be able to save your natural teeth. For more information, call (201) 664-3023; visit us at 354 Old Hook Road #201 in Westwood; or log onto WestwoodPeriodontics.com.

WESTWOOD

CHURCH DISTRIBUTING FREE FOOD NOV. 24

Parkside Community Church, at the corner of Third and Park avenues, holds its remaining monthly food distribution events of the year on its front porch on the fourth Tuesday of November and December. Anyone needing fresh produce, dairy, and meats and non-perishable pantry staples are welcomed. Food will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Identification is not required, but guests will be asked for their contact information for record-keeping and statistical purposes. Residents of Westwood over 70 who prefer not to attend the event in person but would still like to receive food may leave a message with the

Westwood for All Ages program manager at (201) 834-4192. The remaining food pantry dates are Tuesday, Nov. 24 and Tuesday, Dec. 22 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more information or to volunteer, write event coordinator Lisa Bontemps at lisab.ww4allages@gmail.com. Arrangements can be made for elderly individuals in the community who may need food supplies delivered to their homes in between these events. To arrange for such a delivery, write pccwestwood@gmail.com with the personʼs full contact information.

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NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

POLICE BLOTTER

PASCACK PRESS REQUESTS neighborhood police reports every week and summarizes noteworthy items for readers. The following are allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent until and unless they are found guilty in court.

p RIVER VALE

Burglaries at two homes; police say lock your windows

Police said that on Sept. 15 at approximately 2:05 p.m. a resident of Thurnau Drive, in the north section of town, reported that their home had been burglarized.

Upon returning home from a three-day vacation, the residents observed that the master bedroom had been ransacked and that jewelry and cash were missing. The Bergen County Sheriffʼs Department Bureau of Criminal Investigation was summoned and responded to the scene. BCI detectives photographed and processed the scene. Although there were no signs of forced entry, several windows were discovered to have been left unlocked. No fingerprints were obtained from the scene. A short time later, another resident of Thurnau Drive, several houses west of the first, reported that theyʼd discovered that their home had also been burglarized. Similar to the first victim, the master bedroom had been ran-

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sacked. Jewelry and cash had been taken from the home. There were no signs of forced entry, but several windows had been left unlocked. The BCI unit was again summoned and processed the scene. Nothing of evidentiary value was obtained. These matters are under investigation. Residents are reminded to keep all doors and windows locked at all times, including second story windows.

Young man has court date over boozing at store

the incident on the storeʼs video surveillance system. An officer observed a male walking on Sloat Place who matched the description of the individual. The male was stopped and an officer detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath. He was positively identified as the person observed in the video. It was determined that the male was a juvenile from River Vale. His parent was immediately contacted, responded to the scene, and took custody of the juvenile. After further consultation, Liquorland management declined to pursue charges for theft in the matter. The juvenile was subsequently issued a complaint of juvenile delinquency for underage consumption of alcohol. The complaint is answerable at the Bergen County Juvenile Court.

An employee of Liquorland reported that an unknown male had entered the store on Oct. 2 removed a bottle of alcohol from a shelf, and proceeded into the cooler area, where he consumed the alcohol for several minutes. The suspect then left the store, leaving the partially consumed bottle behind. Officers responded and checked the area but were unable to locate anyone matching the An officer on motor patrol description provided. Officers Oct. 18 at approximately 4:35 responded to the store and viewed

Missing plate leads to drug-, alcohol-related complaints

p.m. observed an occupied vehicle parked on Holiday Court lacking a front license plate. After observing the vehicle travel onto Piermont Avenue, the officer conducted a motor vehicle stop on Piermont Avenue near Ruckman Road. On approaching the vehicle, the officer immediately detected the odor of marijuana emanating from inside the vehicle. Back-up officers arrived to assist. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, the officer located a plastic bag containing marijuana, several articles of drug paraphernalia, and an open bottle of an alcoholic beverage. The defendant, 24, from New Milford, was read his Miranda warnings and placed under arrest. He was transported to police headquarters and processed. There, he was issued criminal complaints for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia, and motor vehicle summonses for unclear plates, possession of controlled dangerous substance in a motor vehicle, and open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle. The man was released pending an appearance at the River Vale Municipal Court on Oct. 20.

BUY LOCAL: Farmers’ market open Saturdays in Westwood

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

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

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

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eats HILLSDALE

Dining & Cooking Guide

Frozen turkey drive for Helping Hand Nov. 21

Drop off your turkeys and all the trimmings to the Helping Hand Food Pantry on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hillsdale Methodist Church, 349 Hillsdale Ave. For everyoneʼs safety, and per the law, social distancing rules will be in place and face masks are required. The Helping Hand Food Pantry has been serving Emerson, Hillsdale, Oradell, Montvale, River Vale, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake since 1992. Board members told Pascack

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

tions. With the assistance of local restaurants, we provided supplemental dinners to local clients of Meals on Wheels North Jersey. We also delivered dinners and ice

cream treats to the residents of Hillsdale House,” board members said. Helping Hand Food Pantry is open Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

and the first Saturday of the Month from 9 to 10:30 a.m. For more information, write thehelpinghandfoodpantry@gma il.com.

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NEIGHBORS BAND TOGETHER to clean up around Beechwood Park. Leading the way are Marlowe and Nellie Anides with Leilani, Daylan, Danny, Leona, and Melina. Anna Casale writes, “Armed with grabbers and tongs these kiddos used their searching power to find everything from bottles to gloves! We sorted and recycled what we could, too.” Pascack Press salutes all the families involved. Stay safe!

HILLSDALE

Sundial Garden Club tends to stricken veterans home stopped to talk and thanked us for our efforts, employees stopped to admire our work, and were so very grateful for the uplifting view we brought to their facility,” she said. Moreover, Kane said, members donated pumpkins to the veterans. “We are proud that we as a club were able to uplift such a wonderful group of people that we respect and admire and thank each and everyday for their courage and devotion to our beautiful country America,” she said. Covering any and every aspect of gardening, horticulture, garden design, and community service, Plant America applies to every kind of garden: Blue Star plantings, vegetable gardens, community gardens, container gardening, neighborhood plantings, urban farms, low-water xeriscape gardens and, more. National Garden Clubs says on its website, “Projects in local communities are what distinguish us from the work of other gardening organizations. Towns, cities, neighborhoods, and roadsides across the United States are all beneficiaries of National Garden Clubs projects.”

tion to spread. In mid-October, Gov. Phil Murphy replaced the CEOs at the Paramus and Menlo Park veterans homes, along with leadership at the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Covid-19 caused 146 confirmed and 47 probable deaths at the facilities, or one out of three residents living there during the initial surge. Kane said the National Guard was summoned “to help stabilize the facility physically and mentally, for workers and veterans.” She said, “Our club was not allowed on or near the property until August, when we arrived and completed the spring cleanup.” Shortly after, members went a step further, sprucing up the Purple Heart headstone area with new plantings, mums, cabbage, cornstalks, pumpkins and decorations. “Sort of a cheerful sensory garden for everyone to see and enjoy,” Kane said. She reported that the veterans home was not disappointed. “Everyone who passed by was cheerfully smiling and so appreciative of all the festive decorations and new plantings! Visitors

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

The Sundial Garden Club of Hillsdale made the most of its $1,000 National Gardens Clubs Plant America project grant “to beautify our beloved veterans home in Paramus.” Sundialʼs Leslie Kane told Pascack Press last week the grant is awarded to 52 clubs nationwide each year by the National Garden Club of America to plant and beautify an area of public interest. “The Sundial Garden Club has been maintaining and planting flowers for the Veterans Home for many years and knew we wanted something very special for our vets,” Kane said. Membersʼ original plan for the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home was to install a sensory garden and refurbish several beds. “That was pre-Covid 19. Once the pandemic ramped its way through our state, our veterans home was hit with a vengeance,” she explained. Indeed, the federal government fined the state-run veterans home more than $21,000 for mixing up the identity of a veteran who died from COVID-19 during the pandemic in April and for decisions that allowed the infec-

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eats EMERSON

Dining & Cooking Guide

Stop & Shop launches pickup at Emerson store

Stop & Shop boasts it continues to provide New Jersey residents with faster and more convenient ways to shop, announcing a

new pickup location in Emerson at 600 Kinderkamack Road. Shoppers will be able to place an order at stopandshop.com or on

PASCACK VALLEY

ROTARY CLUB TAKING ORDERS FOR FRESH CITRUS FRUIT

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

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

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the Stop & Shop mobile app, head to the store, and have a store associate load their groceries right into their car. “Weʼre excited to offer our customers the convenience of shopping online for all their favorite items, and then picking up that order from the comfort of their vehicle,” said Chris Tahmoosh, store manager of Stop & Shop Emerson. “We hope this service helps make things easier for them.” Stop & Shop has altered its pickup policies with associate and customer safety in mind. Cus-

tomers are asked to have their trunk or door open for associates to place groceries directly into their vehicle. Customers are also encouraged to wear masks and limit the number of people in their vehicle, when possible. In addition, all Stop & Shop pickup associates will be wearing masks and follow all of the same sanitizing precautions as its instore associates, including surface sanitization and regular hand washing. Due to customer demand, supply may be limited for certain items

like disinfecting wipes and other cleaning products and may not be available for purchase. Purchase limits are also still in place for certain high-demand items, and customers are encouraged to allow for comparable substitutions. A $30 minimum is required on all pickup orders. A $2.95 service fee will be applied at checkout. For more information on the new service, including terms, incentivces, and restrictions, or to schedule a pickup, visit stopandshop.com or download the Stop & Shop mobile app.

WHO’S ENGAGED?

Brittany Sambogna, Dietmar Richter

Pompilio and Amy Sambogna of Westwood are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter Brittany Marie Sambogna to Dietmar Richter, son of Maria-Luise Richter of The Allgäu, a mountainous region in Bavaria, southern Germany. Brittany is a lead vocalist for Aida Cruises. Dietmar is an IT engineer. The couple met while on contract with Aida two years ago. The wedding date has not been set. Brittany is a 2008 graduate of Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School and a 2014 fine arts graduate of Montclair State University. When Pascack Press spoke with her in 2018, after she was hired as lead singer for the maiden voyage of the cruise ship AIDAperla, she told us her mother—whose folks hail from Germany—was thrilled to know her daughter was to set sail from Hamburg and was learning German.

THE LOVE BOAT: Westwood’s Brittany Sambogna met her Mr. Right after leaving home to sing on a luxury cruise ship.

Dining & Cooking Guide

LIBRARY CALENDAR : VIRTUAL PROGRAMS THIS WEEK

EMERSON 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org • Magical Melodies meets Monday, Nov. 2 from 10:30-11:15 a.m. on Facebook Live. Features high-energy songs, dance, and instruments, followed by a trombone parade with Mr. Chris. For children ages 2–4. • Baby & Me is on Facebook Tuesday, Nov. 3 at 11:30 a.m. An introduction to songs, dance and finger plays with stuffed animals and rhymes. Newborn to age 2. • Facilitator Avi Feld describes “Cooking for Happiness” as a program for people who want easy homemade or semihomemade comfort foods that can be prepared and put on the table

quickly. The session on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 10 a.m. will teach you to make pumpkin pie. Free virtual class is held via Zoom; register and find ingredients/recipe on the libraryʼs website. Brought to you by The Jewish Home Family. • Boxing for Fitness & Fun, a program for adults, is on Friday mornings through December. Presented by the Jewish Home Family, these virtual classes are free and are held through Zoom. Certified Rock Steady boxing coach Tom Elliott leads. Find link to register on the libraryʼs website. 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 on the libraryʼs website. Maria, a registered yoga teacher, will share strategies to help you relax, avoid burnout, and nourish your body and mind. • Relax and recharge during a mid-week Guided Meditation with Maria. This Zoom program is offered on two consecutive Wednesdays, Nov. 4 and 11, at 8 p.m. Visit the libraryʼs website for more information about meditation and to register for the program. • Zumba via Zoom is every Thursday at 4:30 p.m. Join Janet Weller, a certified personal trainer

and group fitness instructor, as she leads a dance-based workout. Register online to receive the Zoom link information. • NASA Ambassador Michael Greene returns via Zoom to present an update on the latest Mars expedition in a “Brief History of Mars Exploration” on Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 7:30–8:30 p.m. Learn about the Mars 2020 rover, Perseverance, which is searching for signs of ancient microbial life on our neighboring planet. Register to receive the Zoom invitation. MONTVALE 12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org • The Monday Morning

Book Group will meet Nov. 2 at 10:30 a.m. to discuss “Daughter of Molokai” by Alan Brennert. To join, call Lorissa at (201) 391-5090 or email lorissa.lightman@montvale.bccls.org. Provide your name, phone number, and BCCLS Library barcode number. • Claude Monet is known for his beautiful landscapes and garden scenes. On Thursday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m., the art lecture “Claude Monet: Obsessed with the Natural World” will discuss his journey from rejected outsider to ground-breaking icon of Modernism. Register online. CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

PASCACK VALLEY

Rockland Camerata celebrates Beethoven

In celebration of Ludwig Van Beethovenʼs 250th birthday, Matthew Rupcich, the director and conductor of the Rockland Camerata, is giving a lecture on the Mass in C. By attending this free event on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 7 p.m, youʼll learn how some singers were practically sight-reading at the premiere performance. Megan

Stover assists Matthew Rupcich as moderator. To register, visit https://forms.gle/1nJjSu6g5wfmib Pi9. For more information, visit the Camerata at rocklandcamerata.org and follow it on Facebook and Instagram @CamerataSinging. The Rockland Camerata is an ensemble of approximately 36

voices whose mission is to promote the development of musical skill, knowledge, and passion while presenting to its audience the everexpanding choral repertoire by performing in a variety of venues. The Rockland Camerata was founded in 1978 by Dr. William H. Reese and incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1980.

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PKRG-TV IS HONORED to present a special concert broadcast, “From Broadway to Hollywood,” by world-renowned pianist Richard Glazier and guest soprano soloist PKRGTV’s own Lori Joachim Fredrics, and other surprise special guest stars. The program features performances of music from the golden age of American popular song, including works by George Gershwin, Hugh Martin, Aram Khachaturian, Frederick Lowe, Jerry Bock, Leonard Bernstein, Burt Bachrach, Marvin Hamlisch, Stephen Sondheim, and Harold Arlen—along with film clips, storytelling and interviews. Watch the program on PKRG-TV on Optimum Ch. 77 (Park Ridge) and Verizon FIOS Ch. 22 (Bergen County). For broadcast times, visit pkrgtv.com.

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eats

eats Letters:

respecting that the community that paid his and their wages had valid concerns to costs. I have no doubt heʼd bring that same consideration to the school boardʼs table; putting the children first, but also aware of the taxpayer. Mind you, this foregoing

FROM PAGE 2

Dining & Cooking Guide

opinion is tainted by facts, perspective and experience. Thomas Wanner Former mayor of Westwood

DiPaola for Carbo and Timmerman

To the editor: SIMPLY PUT, Mike Timmer-

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man and Carl Carbo are the right choice for Emerson Council. Emerson can only benefit by electing these two fine family men to represent them. With their education and business background, these smart, young, energetic leaders will help steer Emerson into the future. Mike and Carl are both open and honest family men who volunteer their time on our municipal Land Use Board. Both are active in our community, whether it be at church, on the field or in Borough Hall. They will bring a diverse skill set to the table in order to tackle any issues head on. They will join the remaining governing body members and compliment them with their commitment to Emerson by protecting your interests and your wallet. I have known each of them for several years and I am extremely comfortable with assuring you that they are what Emerson needs right now. I humbly ask you to cast your vote for Mike Timmerman and Carl Carbo for Emerson Council on your vote by mail ballot. Danielle DiPaola Mayor, Borough of Emerson

Ethics and township’s church deal

To the editor: RE: “PROGRESS ON PARKING for DPW; Agreement With OLGC Pending” (Oct. 26). A direct mandate from the Washington Township ethics code is stated below: “No officer or employee shall act in his or her official capacity in any matter where he, a member of his or her immediate family or any business organization in which he or she has an interest has a direct or indirect financial or personal [emphasis added]

involvement that might reasonably be expected to impair his or her objectivity or independence or judgment.” The way I interpret the code, [Mayor Peter] Calamari is in direct violation and shows blatant disregard to the township ethics code. In my opinion, it is so obvious how it is in the interest of Calamari to funnel money to OLGC, where he and his father August (a trustee) are active participants. They tried the same gimmick in 2017 by privately negotiating with Westwood Regional Jr./Sr. High School to rent parking spot from OLGC. The president of the BOE put a stop to it. [Township Attorney Kenneth] Poller will justify the transaction, which I am sure the town was billed for: the so-called tough negotiations. Seriously, how tough could it have been? Hereʼs free money to park trucks in a lot not being used and weʼll do some repair work while weʼre at it. I am surprised they did not throw in a paint job. The issue of the soil remediation has been ongoing for years. The conditions the DMF employees work and eat in are deplorable. When the prior council was pushing to clean up the sorely neglected municipal complex, it was brought to our attention in May 2018 that nothing could be done to the DMF facility until the soil remediation was executed and the town satisfied the DEP requirements. In May 2018, the former administrator thankfully submitted correspondence that had been received in January of 2018 by the former mayor [Janet Sobkowicz] and Poller. Nothing was ever forwarded to the council. Upon further investigation the issue existed for years and all prior DEP letters were ignored. The inaction taken has now cost the taxpayer not only $60,000,

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although it could have cost $0, but hundreds of thousands of dollars to remediate. The town was technically in default and could have been faced with a tremendous number of fines had the prior council not initiated an action plan. As the mayor controls the purse strings, due to our Faulkner type of government, together with a few council members, it is evident where and how money will be spent. It does not have to be this way but certain employees and professionals have had and continue to have their hands in our pockets. Just look at the individuals that received substantial salary increase during a time where so many of us are impacted financially and psychologically by the pandemic. How in good conscience can a council approve salary increases? Shameful. I would welcome the opportunity to have time on WCTV to allow the residents to review all the documents and letters regarding this issue amongst others. I am told it is political and not allowed unless the other parties agree and attend. Let me know a time and date. Robert Bruno Washington Township

Supporting Park Ridge businesses

To the editor: THIS WEEK [in late October] I issued an executive order to extend the provisions of my order from June of this year, temporarily relaxing some zoning regulations and allowing expanded outdoor dining. The original order allowed these provisions through the end of 2020. In light of current data that suggests the health crisis will continue into 2021, I decided to extend the order through March 31, 2021. The order can be viewed in its entirety at parkridgeboro.com. I hope that this will allow our business community the flexibility they need to continue to operate through these extraordinary circumstances. Bergen County CARES is offering grants to small businesses affected by the pandemic. If you own a small business or know someone who does, please visit bergencountycares.org to apply for this funding. I was happy to cut the ribbon at our new food store this week and Lidl is now open for business. I hope that having grocery shopping return to Park Ridge also supports the other small businesses in Park Ridge. CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

The measure is scheduled for a public hearing Nov. 24. According to Councilwoman Jodi Murphy, “A child was playing in her yard when the drone appeared over her head. As she got up and ran to the front yard the drone followed her. It turned out to be [piloted by] a Realtor who was trying to capture a neighboring property.” Police Chief Michael Pontillo told Pascack Press on Oct. 28, “This ordinance will be enforced by the police department. We can use laser range finding equipment to determine the height of a drone should that become necessary. The aim here is not to punish someone who inadvertently violates the ordinance, but to educate them about the local rules regarding the use of drones.” He added, “With the increased use of drones, there is a safety concern for drones that malfunction. Oftentimes, these are used in or around parks which are occupied. This is a good first step to ensure safety and privacy.”

FROM PAGE 1

PARK RIDGE

Over the past decade, drones have become more popular, and are increasingly being utilized by real estate agents, roofers, landscape designers, and other businesses that can benefit from aerial views, Murphy said. The measure was introduced by Councilwoman Erin Collins and seconded by Murphy, both Democrats. Murphy told Pascack Press, “We are not trying to hamstring businesses; we are protecting our residents.” She said the ordinance will protect residents from unwanted surveillance from a drone being flown locally without permission. “With proper notification and consent from property owners, the drones may be used over private property,” she added. The ordinance regulates small unmanned aircraft below 400 feet in Westwood when flying over private property without the permission of the private property owner; over any street; over any Westwood public building, without the permission of the mayor and council; and between dusk and dawn.

Diversity Committee seeks members

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

It also restricts flights “over any persons not directly participating in the operation of the aircraft, or where there are persons not directly participating in the operation of the aircraft located within 100 feet of the perimeter of the

area over which the aircraft is being operated.” The ordinance says, “All other uses of public property shall have priority over use of public property for the operation of small unmanned aircraft.”

According to Borough Clerk Karen Hughes, the Federal Aviation Administration regulates drones above 400 feet, leaving municipalities free to adopt regulations affecting flights at altitudes below.

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

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Ask the Dentist: STRANGE TASTE COULD SIGNAL DECAY OR GUM PROBLEMS

At our office, we often hear patients complaining of a strange taste in their mouth, but no pain anywhere. Particularly in ROBERT H. GULLER, D.M.D OF PASCACK DENTAL ARTS cases where the patient has not been to a dentist for a long while, we look for clinical and x-ray evidence of decay or gum disease. Decayed areas or an area with missing or old broken fillings form spaces where food and bacteria can be trapped causing a constant source of a bad taste and bad breath. Often, the patient does not know where this is coming from, but frequently may originate from an area, which cannot be properly cleaned by the patient. A vicious cycle occurs with food being trapped when eating,

bacteria growing and producing waste products and ultimately bad taste and breath. This same cycle can also cause gum problems, which can also be a source of the same issue. Gum problems on their own can additionally create an unpleasant taste/bad breath due to the inability of the patient to properly clean and disinfect a portion of their mouth. As previously stated, an examination, x-rays and an evaluation of the teeth and gums will usually uncover the cause of the problem or problems, in rather short order. If you have a persistent “bad taste”, let your dentist or hygienist know so that the problem can be corrected before other possible issues occur. For questions about this and other dental procedures contact Dr. Guller at: askdrguller@aol.com or call 201391-5565.

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Drones: Borough wants to educate, protect Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

DR. KAPLAN: Keep your brain healthy in time of Covid-19

N A S A announced that there is a 0.41% chance that an asteroid will hit our planet on Nov. 2. According to the CDC, if you DR. ERIC KAPLAN, are under 80 KAPLAN BRAIN & years old, your BODY chances of dying from Covid-19 are substantially less than the chances of the asteroid impacting the earth. If you are a school-aged child, your mortality rate is 0.003% and if you are between 20 and 50, your mortality rate for Covid-19 is 0.02%. Why are all the schools and places closing down if everyone is wearing masks, social distancing, they are taking temperatures, and doing some contact tracing? If someone is sick or has tested positive, those individuals should stay home, but they cannot keep closing every place that has a positive case. Positive cases do not always correlate to increase hospitalizations or fatalities. Also, they have to look at the whole picture, not just make choices based on just the virus. Whenever making a health decision, you must always weigh the risks versus the rewards. The risks of closing schools and having

children home all day can lead to depression, anxiety, suicide, rage, crime, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, OCD, ADD, ADHD, brain fog, apathy, anger, and domestic violence. In addition, parents that have already lost businesses or jobs due to lockdowns cannot go back to work because they cannot afford childcare and have to stay home to supervise the children who have to be homeschooled or are taking virtual classes. Dr. [Anthony] Fauci recently said things will not be able to go back to normal until 2022. I remember the original closing of schools and lockdowns was supposed to be only for two weeks to “flatten the curve.” The story we were told was that we did not want to overwhelm the hospitals and we wanted to make sure there was enough medical equipment for doctors and nurses. Well, the two week lockdown to flatten the curve is now almost eight months. The curve is not only flattened, mortalities and hospitalizations are way down. Hospitals are not overwhelmed and there is enough equipment to support the medical professionals. It seems now the intention is to eliminate the virus completely and open up the country when cases are 0. That is unrealistic.

They need to give us an actual plan of what metrics they are using to determine their decisions. How come at a restaurant or bar you can literally be sitting next to a stranger without a mask, but at school, where children and teachers are sitting 6 feet apart from each other, they cannot take off their masks. How come standing in line at the airport people need to be 6 feet apart with a mask, but once you are on the plane, you can sit right next to someone and you can take off your mask to drink or eat? How come if you are protesting for racial oppression, the experts tell us there is not a risk of Covid-19 spreading, but if you are protesting the lockdowns, you are risking peopleʼs lives? How come politicians and celebrities can travel to and from Covid states and not have to quarantine, but us regular folk have to quarantine for 14 days after travel? These are just some questions that need to be answered because they are not based on science as the news and politicians claim.

and pointed out if residents “demonstrate the right behaviors toward our neighbors, our fellow students” that can also help to enhance the areaʼs reputation. If not, she advised, “we will see an increase in bad press and bad social media” that may indi-

cate to non-residents that the area is not inclusive. Stutzel urged listeners, “Imagine what your community looks like to people not in the ingroup.” He noted the conduct of church services, budgets and church bulletins “reflect places where our values actually are.” He said ways to create a more

inclusive and diverse space involve honoring your life story “good, bad and everything in between” and honoring the life stories of others. “Are their stories that challenge your own? Are their stories that make you feel uncomfortable? What do you feel when you hear other stories?” he said.

That being said… That being said, this virus is deadly and dangerous and should not be ignored. Besides healthy eating, exercising, and reducing emotional stress, the three most

PV Core: Push for inclusion FROM PAGE 8

important habits you can take on aggressively due to this pandemic is washing your hands frequently, stopping touching your face, and increasing your Vitamin D levels. I have noticed that the people that have the worst outcome after contraction of Covid-19 are those with heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Also after contraction of Covid-19, lots of people are getting “brain fog” which seems very similar to my patients who have had “chemo brain” after receiving cancer treatments of chemotherapy and radiation. Many of these people are losing their memory, focus, motivation, and energy. There are many at-home activities that you can perform if you are suffering from these brain based issues. One thing you can do is to eat with chopsticks. You will have to really use your frontal cortex which helps with working memory. You can also start brushing your teeth or hair with your non-dominant hand to make the brain work a little harder. Challenge your brain with games like chess, checkers, board games, or cards. Walk or bike to work or drive a new route home. Learn a musical instrument, play a new sport, learn a foreign language, or take dancing lessons. It really helps if you can do a stimulating activity that is also a physical exercise as well. Other ideas include drawing a map from memory. You can also cook a new healthy cuisine because this stimulates the brain by using different senses such as smell, sight, taste, touch, and sound. One of my favorite brain exercises is to do chores with your eyes closed. This really helps to enhance other neural pathways, but please make sure you are always taking the proper safety precautions if you try this at home. Also, it is very important that you connect with other people. Isolation in the home is very bad for your brain. Start by participating in zoom meetings, educational classes, and support groups. Try memorizing phone numbers instead of using your phonebook in the cell phone. Practice mindfulness. For example, when you eat, enjoy each bite, savor different flavors, and be in the moment rather than reading or watching TV while you eat. Meditate daily. Start from the top of your head and imagine all your muscles relaxing. Slowly take deep breaths in and out as you visualize all your muscles top to bottom relaxing and internal repeating “relax, relax, relax” or any other word that works for you. It can be difficult at first, but keep trying. Meditation has been scientifically proven to have many positive health benefits including improving memory. Take up a craft hobby such as

knitting, drawing, and painting. Tell stories to your kids and grandkids. Create new acronyms or mnemonic phrases to sharpen your brain. Vary your surroundings such as listening to different music, using different lighting, having different backgrounds, and being in different locations. Travel frequently to new places and meet new people. Always get a good nightʼs rest to really improve brain function. The hours before midnight are the most important hours. It is better to go to bed early and wake up early rather than go to bed late and wake up late. Interestingly, one of the easiest ways to improve memory and focus is to take lots of breaks. Your brain is typically only capable of remembering three concepts or facts at a time. Therefore, to maximize your brain function, if after 20 minutes of reading or studying a subject you learned three big concepts, it is time to take a break. Go for a quick walk, have a snack, drink some water, do some push ups, or partake in some breathing exercises. After your break, go back to your studies, and then your brain will now be able to memorize three more concepts. Breaks are very important for your brain, your eyes, and your body. Remember that the brain loves to learn new things, and loves to be challenged. Stop relying on your cell phone and the internet, and start using your brain more to improve your memory and focus. The brain needs oxygen, healthy food, and the proper activation to function better, feel better and live better. Try to turn off the news. The news is full of political corruption, death, natural disasters, fear, stressful situations, violence, racism, and bigotry. When you watch the news, you will get more stressed. If you are more stressed, your immune system will weaken. If your immune system is weak, then you are more susceptible to Covid-19. You can help your community by volunteering and charity which are much more productive activities than watching the news. If you are interested in learning about ways to improve your memory and focus by using a natural process called neuroplasticity, please sign up for my FREE Zoom lecture on Tuesday Nov. 10 at 6:30 p.m. You can call (201) 261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to reserve a spot because seating is limited. Editorʼs note: We have not fact-checked assertions made in this partner content, and recommend you rely on your primary care physician for guidance on Covid-19.

For more information, visit parkridgeboro.com. Keith Misciagna Mayor of Park Ridge

FROM PAGE 8

Endorsing Fenwick, Pallotta

To the editor: I AM WRITING to fully endorse Will Fenwick for Park Ridge Borough Council and Frank Pallotta for NJ-5. We must end one-party rule in the Pascack Valley. From the governorʼs office, State Legislature, courts... liberals continue to control all levels of government in the Pascack Valley. With this control, taxes continually increase, spending and high-density overdevelopment plague our region. It is time for Republicans, Independents, and smart-minded Democrats to push back and have a voice for the many constituents who understand the damage one party rule can have on our daily lives and pocketbooks. Frank Pallotta, a businessman with decades of success in the private sector, and Will Fenwick, a smart attorney dialed into the challenges facing Park Ridge, are both outstanding candidates to represent our voices and present a

Trump unfit on Covid-19 emergency

To the editor: THE RECENT SET of school closings demonstrate how national politics impacts us at the local level. A partial list of schools that closed in October and went to remote instruction include Pascack Hills, Pascack Valley, Park Ridge, Don Bosco, Northern Highlands, Ramapo High School (Franklin Lakes), Indian Hills, Bergen Technical Academies and Ramsey. These closing occurred less than two months into the school year! These closings demonstrate the seriousness of COVID-19. Our Bergen County government (County executive and commissioners) realizes the seriousness of this virus and have been very proactive with testing. Montvale and other towns also understand the seriousness and encourage residents to wear masks, social distance and follow CDC guidelines. Unfortunately, Donald Trump does not treat COVID-19 as something serious even though 225,000 Americans have died from the virus and the number of new cases is increasing across the country. The virus is right here in our towns!

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COVID-19 is both a national and local emergency. We need to defeat it so that our economy can recover, our schools can re-open with full day in person instruction and we can resume our normal lives. To do this we need a president who treats this virus seriously, follows science and unites the country in defeating a common threat. Donald Trump is not the person to this. If you are the parent of a child impacted by school closings, I urge you to vote for Joe Biden. It will take time before we get back to normal. The first step is to elect a president who will follow science and treat COVID19 as a national emergency. Donald Trumpʼs actions to trivialize this problem and his failure to take appropriate action show that he is unfit to be president. Please vote for Joe Biden so we can defeat COVID-19! Bob Zitelli Montvale

Pontillo will elevate WW school board

proud father of three fantastic children. He has proudly dedicated the past 20 years to serving our community in the Westwood Police Department. I know Mike cares deeply about the success of our wonderful town and our school district. His willingness to step up to further serve our community is something I am very excited about. The safety of my children is of paramount concern to me, and simply put, Mikeʼs abilities, training, insight, and work experience would be a tremendous asset that we, as a community, should embrace. We send our children off to school every day with the hope that they are safe in school. We place our trust in our schools and hope that everything has been done to ensure their safety. While I am pleased with the measures the district has

taken in recent years to secure our schools I believe there is much more that can be done. Therefore when someone with Mikeʼs background in law enforcement steps forward to lend his time and expertise we should certainly not pass on that offer. In closing, I believe Mike is a fantastic well-rounded candidate who is ready to bring positive change to the board. Mike will bring a fresh perspective and new ideas into the BOE. He will advocate for what is right for our children and our community. I will proudly vote for him because I know Mike will elevate the Board of Education and the school district. Dan Severs Westwood CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

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To the editor: I AM WRITING to voice my support for Michael Pontillo, candidate for the Westwood seat on the WWRSD BOE. I know Mike and his family well. Together weʼve coached our daughters and have become friends over the last several years. Mike is a lifelong resident and a

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NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Letters:

new way forward. Please join me in supporting them. Nate Brown Park Ridge

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

SIX PRIORITIES FOR THE SANDWICH GENERATION

Editorʼs note: The following article is for informational purposes only. The “Sandwich Generation”— adults caring for ERIC KOHLMEIER aging parents as well as children—faces several stressful challenges that come from trying to juggle everyoneʼs needs. One of those top stressors: finances, such as how to cover education and health care costs and still save enough for retire-

ment. The demands often compete with one another—which is why setting clear priorities is so important. Here are six tips for setting those priorities to help you deliver the support your loved ones need—without shortchanging yourself. • Take care of your future first. Saving enough for retirement should be your top priority. You have to take care of your needs before you help your parents and your children. • Create or update your investment plan. Create an

investment plan that will help you balance your financial goals with the needs of your children and parents. Review your budget, analyze your expenses, and set savings targets to help you prioritize planning for an expense, such as college costs or long-term care for your parents. • Review your insurance coverage. Protecting your income is always a good idea, but itʼs even more important when you have two generations depending on you. Make sure you have enough life insurance in case something happens to you to pay off your

mortgage and other debt, and to help cover the future living expenses of your dependents. And donʼt forget disability insurance: More than a quarter of todayʼs 20-year-olds will become disabled before they retire, according to the Council for Disability Awareness. • Check in on your parentsʼ financial health. Though it might seem awkward, talk to your parents about their wishes for the future and their financial health. What financial assets and expenses do they have? How do they plan to meet their financial obligations? Do they have a plan to cover the costs of long-term care? This conversation can help you determine how much financial support you will need to provide. Also, make sure your parents have done adequate estate planning, and ask for copies of their will or trust, durable power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive. Make sure your own estate-planning documents are complete and updated as well. • Consider reducing financial support for grown children. Many parents still help their grown children with their finances—sometimes even to their detriment. Many young Baby Boomers are still paying their kidsʼ expenses, cell phone bill, or car insurance. If this is the case for you, talk with your children about the steps they can take to start becoming more financially inde-

pendent. • Look for ways to help reduce your taxes. In some cases, you may be able to claim your aging parents as dependents. Also check with a tax advisor to see if their medical expenses qualify as a tax deduction. Another way that may benefit your financial bottom line is to set up a 529 Plan for your childrenʼs education expenses. Wells Fargo Advisors is not a tax or legal advisor. All investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing in a 529 savings plan. The official statement, which contains this and other information, can be obtained by calling your financial advisor. Read it carefully before you invest. 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. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered brokerdealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR #0119-03128.

WESTWOOD

Riley Senior Center brings back lunch program

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

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

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burse the Township for about $375,000 that was paid to Bayonne under the Townshipʼs affordable housing regional contribution agreement to construct affordable units there. [For more, see “Township residents slam ʻmonsterʼ subdivision approved in 2004,” Sept. 28, 2018.] No affordable units are required for the Viviano development, a condition approved recently by a state Superior Court final judgment of compliance and repose on the Townshipʼs affordable housing settlement. The payment was made by Township in lieu of the developer needing to build any affordable units at the proposed subdivision off of Pascack Road. Regional Contribution Agreements, once allowed under the now-defunct Council on Affordable Housing, were outlawed in 2008 when the Legislature voted to ban them, finding they were against the spirit of the Mount Laurel doctrine. In 2019, the propertyʼs tax assessment dropped to $2,000, thanks to a farmland assessment filed by developer Tomaron Inc. Tomaron Inc. paid $48.77 in property taxes compared to a longstanding assessment of around $1,035,000, records show. The developer secured the more favorable tax bill by stating that it had sold $500 of firewood Residents Lou Melendez and Diane Grimaldi, members of the Concerned Neighbors of Washington Township, noted that they have many issues with the long-stalled 73-unit development now advancing, including concerns about stormwater management, a lack

FROM PAGE 9

of road space for fire truck access and turnaround, and the high density being permitted there in what is a AA single-family, half-acre zone. Grimaldi said she would like to see fewer single-family homes proposed along the backyards of Katharina Place reduced by six or more, she said. She noted the citizens group has hired an attorney and engineering consultant to help them raise issues and improve any development, while improving quality of life for nearby residents. Grimaldi said she worries most about stormwater management, and its impact as the planʼs engineering and site layout may be outdated. An effort to revive the plan a couple years back never gained traction after a raucous Planning Board meeting were unresolved issues dominated discussion. These included whether Phase I environmental studies were completed properly, with residents noting the onsite presence of oil tanks, cars and old batteries still being pulled from the ground. Years ago, the site was a chicken farm. Other development hiccups included lack of a current traffic study, a minimal escrow account to clean up possible sewage backups, whether sidewalks were included, trees removed in violation of ordinance, lack of coordination on future school needs with Westwood Regional School District, and no analysis of construction impacts on nearby towns. Now a revised preliminary and final site plan, apparently incorporating some of 2018ʼs changes, will be heard soon, say area neighbors.

With additional reporting by John Snyder.

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Fall: Homes soon?

Melendez said while neighbors are not against developing the property they want to make sure it is not overdeveloped, as current plans propose. “Just go back and look at it very carefully, thatʼs what we want,” Melendez said, further noting that the plan is outdated and needs to be improved and reduced before approved. “We want the township to go back and look at this [development very carefully and study this. And ask questions such as should we have this project here at this point in time?” he added. Melendez also pointed out that, to his knowledge, the Township has not yet been reimbursed for $375,000 it paid out to Bayonne as part of an affordable housing regional contribution agreement on Vivianoʼs behalf. The Township received 11 affordable housing credits for the outlay. Melendez stressed that the area around the long-proposed Viviano development has changed dramatically since its original proposal nearly two decades ago and there needs to be a comprehensive review of what should be allowed there before any plan is approved. He said nearby Katharina Place had three homes on it in 2000 and now has 20 homes on the same tract, while more development is planned and ongoing elsewhere in town. Efforts to obtain the plan via a public records request and email to Planning Board chair Brian Murphy were not successful. However, Melendez shared details of the site plan previously provided to the citizens group. “Is this the kind of development that we want in that area at this time?” he said.

TIGHT FIT: Residents have been asking online, at at public meetings, about details of the proposed American Dream Estates, including whether enough space is addressed for emergency vehicles to turn around

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NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

OUR VISION - YOUR DREAMS - DELIVERED ON TIME. CREATIVE FUNCTIONAL DESIGNS REFLECTING CLIENT’S LIFESTYLE & BUDGET

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Library Calendar

• The Financial Literacy & Securities Fraud Workshop, presented by law students in the Investor Advocacy Project of the Seton Hall University School of Law, will teach investors commonly used terms in the financial industry, red flags that may signal broker fraud/abuse, and questions to ask your investment professional. This virtual talk is on Zoom FROM PAGE 17

Monday, Nov. 9 from 7–8 p.m. Register online. • The Classics Book Group will discuss “The Age of Innocence” by Edith Wharton when members meet virtually on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. New members are welcome. Email Lorissa Lightman at lorissa.lightman@montvale.bccls.org. PARK RIDGE

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51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org • Andrea Collier is back with Yoga For Everyone on Facebook Live (Park Ridge Public LibraryNJ). No yoga experience necessary; just pull up next to your screen and get ready for an hour of relaxation, stretching and mindfulness. On Facebook Live Monday, Nov. 2 at 6:30 p.m. • 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 is every Thursday at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook page (Park Ridge Public Library-NJ). Stories, songs and a craft for little ones. • Crafts with Miss Renee is every Friday at 10:30 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook. You must call the library the Monday– Thursday before the craft to reserve your craft kit and it must be picked up that day. All ages are invited to participate as Miss Renee walks you through a fun craft at home. • Join Miss Eileen every Saturday for the Book It Club. Stories, science and more geared towards kids in primary grades.

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RIVER VALE 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org • This week brings a special Fall Craft-to-Go for kids in pre-K through fifth grade. Stop by the library to pick up an acorn tissue paper craft to complete at home. Supplies are limited. Crafts are first come, first served. • Virtual Chair Yoga meets via Zoom every Tuesday at 11 a.m. This gentle form of yoga is designed for seniors and people with disabilities. Visit the libraryʼs website to register. • At Garden Arts for Kids: Paper Quilling, young River Vale residents in grades 3–6 will learn to twist, curl and fold strips of paper into fun shapes using simple items from home. Use them to create 3-D artwork! Program is on Zoom Thursday, Nov. 5 from 4–5 p.m. Gather materials prior to the program start time; find materials list and registration link online. • Magical Melodies meets Friday, Nov. 6 at 11 a.m. on Zoom. Featuring high-energy songs, dancing, and instruments

with Mr. Chris. For children ages 1–5. Register on the libraryʼs website. • River Vale Readers Book Club (grades 2–3) will meet on Zoom Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 4–4:30 p.m. to discuss “Sofia Martinez: My Family Adventure” by Jacqueline Jules. Copies are available at the front desk or through Libby as an eBook. Registration is required; sign up online. • Explore the Highlights of Governors Island with travel aficionado Mario Medici during a Zoom presentation on Wednesday, Nov. 11 from 7–8 p.m. Take a walking photographic tour of Governors Island, located just 800 yards from lower Manhattan. The presentation will highlight its history, architecture, and important sites. Registration is required for access to the Zoom meeting. TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586 twpofwashingtonpl.org • Preschool Storytime is every Monday at 10 a.m. for ages 2 and up. Stories, songs, and

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

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pendent living senior complex there, which originally included a 44-unit apartment complex and four separate townhomes in two buildings. The developer withdrew the application in September after submitting it to the Zoning Board of Adjustment for review in late July. Several Ridgewood Boulevard East homeowners have retained an attorney and the attorney sent an email to township officials suggesting options—including rezoning the property or acquisition via eminent domain— to preserve it and prevent its development as a senior complex or as single-family homes on halfacre lots, which is the areaʼs AA zoning.

FROM PAGE 6

Edward K. Bonner, a team member for Cody & Company Inc., the listed property broker for 450 Pascack Road, told Pascack Press that he had yet to hear from anyone from the Township of Washington. He also said “everything is confidential” about the propertyʼs marketing status. Tsapatsaris told Pascack Press that the developer had tried to work with neighbors on options but was rebuffed. “From the beginning, we have been reaching out to the neighbors in hope of constructive dialogue regarding our plans for the property which could have included municipal parking and substantial open space,” he said. He added, “Despite repeated requests, the neighbors refused to meet and instead moved to retain counsel. Given the potential for

litigation that they have created, we prefer not to comment on our plans for development of the property except to reiterate that single family homes on half-acre lots are permitted on this 3-acre parcel.” Tsapatsaris noted that his construction company “remains in control of the property as it pertains to development” and that multifamily senior independent living has been permitted in “AA” zones on three other local properties “in the spirit of the Master Plan.” Mayor Peter Calamari told Pascack Press on Oct. 27 that he and Council President Stacey Feeney and Councilman Michael DeSena met with a few Ridgewood Boulevard East homeowners recently to discuss possible preservation options, including rezoning the property.

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Calamari said that eminent domain, a tactic suggested by the residentsʼ attorney, was not discussed in the informal discussion. He said Feeney and DeSena likely would look into possible rezoning of the property. The governing body on Oct. 19 did approve an ordinance allowing the township to take property by eminent domain for fair market value in connection with the Pascack Road/Washing-

ton Avenue intersection reconstruction project. Negotiations are ongoing. Calamari said the “Available” sign was posted Oct. 24 and it was interpreted as a sign that the developer had given up on developing a senior complex there. The next Township Council meeting is Nov. 9, where residents may offer public comment. 0100

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crafts based on a fun weekly theme. Sign up online to pick up a bag of crafts to last four weeks at a time. Links for storytimes will be posted on YouTube and Facebook as well as the libraryʼs website. • On Mondays at 7:30 p.m., join instructor Jacki for a Virtual Yoga Class. Follow at your own pace in this class that is great for all abilities and skill levels. Registration information at the libraryʼs website. • STEAM Thursdays, a program for school-age kids, is every Thursday at 4 p.m. Lego challenges, books, crafts, experiments, and cooking—each week itʼs something new! Links will be posted on Facebook and YouTube as well as the libraryʼs website. • Friday Friends, a storytime for babies and toddlers up to 2 years old, is every Friday at 10 a.m. Features rhymes, songs, and a short story. Sign up online to pick up an early literacy bag with a scarf and shaker to join in. Links posted on YouTube, Facebook, and the libraryʼs website. • Yoga with Miss Danielle is every other Wednesday at 10 a.m. on Facebook Live. For little ones ages 18 months and up. Next date: Wednesday, Nov. 11. • Virtual Crafting, a series for adults and teens, brings a new FROM PAGE 24

REAL ESTATE

craft tutorial to the libraryʼs Facebook page and YouTube on select Thursdays at noon. Sign up now for the Nov. 12 craft, which is a custom wall hanging kit.

WESTWOOD 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org • Bollywood Dance for kids (grades 3–5) is on Zoom this Wednesday, Nov. 4 from 4–4:30 p.m. In a new class that meets weekly during November, kids can have fun and get some exercise and cultural exposure by learning basic Bollywood dance moves with choreographer Ashwin Kumar. Register online. • Itʼs a Virtual Pet Party on Zoom! Children in grades K–2 are invited this Thursday, Nov. 5 from 2–2:30 p.m. They will have fun learning about and connecting with bunnies, hedgehogs, chicks, blue-tongued skinks, chinchillas, tortoises, guinea pigs, miniature chickens, and bearded dragons. Program meets weekly in November, with a variety of different animals presented each week. Register online for access. • Debate Club for grades 4–5 is on Google Meet Thursday, Nov. 5 from 4–4:45 p.m. In this introduction to the art of debate, kids develop skills in communication, critical thinking, research, organi-

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zation, and presentation. Taught by a high school honor student and Debate Team member. Register online. • Music Speaks, an early childhood interactive Mommy and Me music program, is on Zoom every Friday in November at 10:30 a.m. The program provides developmentally appropriate music for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to age 4. Register online. • During The Incredible

Journey, a Zoom presentation, children in grades 2–5 will be transformed into water droplets traveling through the water cycle. Students simulate the movement of water, while picking up beads ending in a water cycle bracelet. Monday, Nov. 9 from 4–4:45 p.m. Register online. • The OBG Online Book Group will discuss “The Innocent Wife” by Amy Lloyd during a Zoom meeting on Thursday, Nov. 19 at 7:30 p.m. Register now.

• The Multicultural Girl (non-binary) Book Club (grades 3–5) will gather on Google Meet Monday, Nov. 23 from 4–4:45 p.m. The group reads a chapter book each month and learns about girls from different cultural backgrounds. Books must be read before each meeting and can be found on Libby and in the library catalog (bccls.org). This monthʼs selection is “Amazing Life of Azaleah Lane” (African-American).

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improvements to Mercedes Drive and the intersection with Grand Avenue. • Woodland Heights/Flintlock Road: This 20-home subdivision off Woodland Road has 15 homes occupied, two homes under construction, and three vacant lots. • Premier Development (Alexa), 160 Spring Valley Road: This 81-unit townhome development north of Upper Saddle River Road has 20 units occupied in four out of a total of 11 buildings. The club/amenities building, which is located on an adjacent lot in New York, is complete. Additional buildings are under construction at this time. Four of the affordable units in the complex have been rented. • 7 Franklin Road: This 13unit apartment building with 25tenant parking spaces is nearing completion. The applicant has

FROM PAGE 3

requested final building department inspections, and we are awaiting submittal of an As-Built Survey. • De Piero Farms Lifestyle Center and site improvements: City MD was granted a use variance and use permit to occupy all of Building E, along with an approval of additional signage for Chase Bank and Lululemon. Two tenant spaces have not been rented.

Capital projects • FY 2020 NJDOT Road Program: American Asphalt and Milling Services competed concrete curbing, sidewalk, and ramp work on Paragon and Philips and expects to begin milling and paving the week of Oct. 26, weather permitting. Paragon Drive will be milled and paved from Grand Avenue north, ending south of the former A&P (now Toll Brothers) site. Philips Parkway will be paved from Grand Avenue through the Mercedes Drive inter-

section. • La Trenta Field Synthetic Turf: The project is complete with the exception of a few punch list items. Paperwork will be prepared for submission to the county for reimbursement. The borough was awarded $113,538 in 2017 and $65,000 in 2018 for the synthetic turf installation. • Bergen County/Magnolia Avenue Bridge Replacement: Met with four of the five residents who will be affected by temporary and/or permanent easements on their properties. This county project is still expected to be out to bid this Fall. The construction schedule has not been finalized but is still projected for the last quarter of 2020. • PSE&G Gas Main Replacement: PSE&G has paved the following streets: Antrim, Clover, Columbine, Concord, Greenbriar, Jan, Lexington, Pineview, Plymouth, Sloping Hill and Twin Oaks. PSEG continues to install new gas mains and serv-

PASCACK VALLEY

ices in the borough. • Municipal Building HVAC Repairs: Recent repairs include replacement of hot water valves and gas regulator for the hot water boiler. The borough also issued a purchase order to Air Systems to replace the rooftop unit that services the Police Department and provides both heat and air conditioning. • Senior Center HVAC Repairs: Air Systems was issued a purchase order to replace the hot water boiler providing heat to the senior center. During a recent maintenance inspection the unit was found to be leaking and required replacement. This will be completed prior to Election Day. • NJDEP 2020 Tier A Stormwater Reporting: Completed the majority of inspections and GPS (Global Positioning System) mapping of the outfalls in the borough which is required by the

NJDEP. The remaining outfalls require removal of vegetation by the DPW. • 2020 Road Program: Additional roads for 2020 include Moulton Drive, Conrad Court and Heather Ridge Lane which were milled and paved on Sept. 14. Micro-surfacing was completed on Sept. 17 on Huff Terrace, Candlelight Drive, Shephard Drive and Olde Lantern Court. Micro-surfacing Payment No. 1 was submitted for this work in the amount of $72,894.18 which was under the budgeted amount by $2,781.30. • 2021 NJDOT Road Program: Application was submitted on July 1 for the NJDOT 2021 Road Improvement Grant Program. Maser engineers is recommending that Craig Road, which connects two county roads, be selected for this program.

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

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Letters: FROM PAGE 21

Re-elect Arnold Scher to PV BOE

To the editor: I AM A MEMBER of the Pascack Valley Regional High School Board of Education, writing this letter in my personal capacity. I support Arnold Scher for re-election to the board. Arnold is an outstanding board member, sacrificing his time and energy preparing for board meetings. He brings to every meeting a thorough understanding of the agenda items and issues before the board. Observe any board meeting: clearly, Arnold has taken the time beforehand to prepare and direct questions to the issues before the board. This dedication to being a responsible board member is why

Arnold should be re-elected. Arnold puts the needs of our current students and the Pascack Valley Regional school community first. Casting one of your two votes for Arnold supports the current high-quality of our educational programs and student experience. Kenneth Ralph Hillsdale

Vote for my wife, Nicole Klas, for BOE

To the editor: THIS LETTER IS in support of Nicole Klas for the Hillsdale K-8 Board of Education. Although I am certainly biased (Nicole and I have been married for over 21 years!) I feel it necessary and important to show my support for Nicole in this election. Since moving into Hillsdale (we bought our first home here in 1998 and moved in after our wedding in 1999) Nicole has always found a way to be involved in the

community at some level. From junior womenʼs club, to family and faculty organizations at the elementary and middle schools, to coaching softball, and any chance to volunteer her time and skills, Nicole finds a way to contribute to our community. This desire to make Hillsdale the best place possible to live and raise a family has continued with her service on the Hillsdale Board of Education. When I reflect on why Nicole is so intent on volunteering her time and skills, there is only one reason why she does it: because she cares… for our town, for our two daughters, and for the many families and individuals that call Hillsdale home. This was no more evident that this past year as we all struggled with the COVID-19 pandemic and how to get our kids back to school in the safest, most effective way—Nicole, along with our school administrators, teachers, and fellow board of education members, worked countless hours on what has been a very successful plan—which should bring each of us great pride in our schools and their leaders.

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Nicole is a talented financial professional, licensed as a CPA in New Jersey, a relentless organizer of both tasks and people, and a gifted listener who shows understanding and empathy when people bring her a problem to solve. She works tirelessly in everything that she does—working hard to do the right thing for our schools and community while maintaining a successful career and being a wonderful mother to our daughters (being their number one fan, supporter, and role model). I encourage our townʼs voters to make sure that they select Nicole Klas when filling out their ballots this year in the election and to return your ballots via mail or a secure drop box (we even have on in Hillsdale by Borough Hall!) before the Nov. 3 deadline. Your vote for Nicole is a vote for continuity, consistency and experience! Brian Klas Hillsdale

Montana, Hodges for Westwood

To the editor: I ENCOURAGE ANY Westwood voter who has yet to send in their ballot to do so and to VOTE COLUMN 1 for both incumbent councilmembers Chris Montana and Cheryl Hodges. These two individuals are not only friends of mine but they are dedicated public servants who have always gone above and beyond for the residents of Westwood, young and old. Council President Chris Montana has previously coached recreation basketball and softball in town for years and did so out of the goodness of his heart. His desire to have an impact on the lives of our communityʼs children and to give back to his community

is evident in his willingness to continue volunteering his time year after year. His commitment to the Special Needs Activity Program is yet another example of his selflessness and desire to make a difference in our town. Chris does not stop there. He also has been a longtime volunteer for the Meals on Wheels program, where he volunteers time delivering meals to our homebound residents, always with a smile on his face. Well before she joined the Borough Council, Councilwoman Cheryl Hodges has been a pillar of our community through her tireless devotion to giving back in honor of her son, Sgt. Christopher Hrbek. The Scholarship Memorial Fund in honor of Sgt. Hrbek ensures that his legacy lives on through the awarding of annual scholarships to Westwood High School students. Cherylʼs community service commitment has for years included the Westwood Fire Department, Ladies Auxiliary and Zion Lutheran Church. Over the last six-plus months, Cheryl has also consistently offered her time in support of the Riley Center at the Westwood House to make sure that our most vulnerable residents have the food and supplies needed during the pandemic. While Westwood is a community where so many give back, these two individuals have done so routinely, regardless of their positions on the Borough Council. We live in very challenging times and challenging times calls for strong leadership. Westwood needs leaders like Chris and Cheryl. Please take the time to complete and send your ballot and Vote Column 1 for Both Chris Montana and Cheryl Hodges. Louise A. Cue Westwood CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

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Letters: FROM PAGE 34

Keep our Westwood incumbents

To the editor: I AM WRITING to lend my full support and ask you to re-elect Westwoodʼs incumbent councilmembers, Chris Montana and Cheryl Hodges. Knowing them both and observing their volunteer work, even outside their council duties, I am certain they will continue to provide Westwood with steady and thoughtful leadership. As someone deeply involved with the boroughʼs youth sports and recreation programs, I appreciate all that they have done to enhance those experiences for our children. Most recently, they have stepped up to provide unwavering support as we have tried to provide some outdoor activities for our ballplayers during this pandemic. It would have been simpler to keep everything shut down, but both Chris and Cheryl did everything within their power to look out for our youngest residents! I can safely say that having a taste of normalcy during the craziness of the past few months was deeply appreciated by all of our participating families. Iʼm proud of their entire record of service, as it demonstrates the very best of what Westwood has to offer. I urge you all to support them with your vote! Yash Risbud Westwood

Rendo: Vote Col. 1 in WCL for progress

To the editor: ON NOV. 3, Woodcliff Lake residents will be voting for our new council positions. The team of Roxana Rito, Michael Casale, and Dianna Cereijo is the only team that has a platform to move Woodcliff Lake forward. They will support a curbside commingling of recyclables program; keep our taxes minimal without sacrificing services; and will support adopting a comprehensive Master Plan to control overdevelopment while giving our residents a voice in the future planning of our town. The opponents have not offered a platform nor a positive vision for our community. Furthermore, under the former administration of Josephine Higgins, our community was burdened with an unnecessary water tax surcharge by Park Ridge that served no benefit to Woodcliff Lake. This surcharge is reflected on your water bill. In addition, she incorrectly restricted a lot located on Lincoln Avenue to be placed on the Open Space Inventory. This action prevented the municipality from selling the lot to a prospective buyer and resulted in lost revenue. Although Mayor Higgins and her team now opposes a comprehensive Master Plan, at the July 8, 2019 planning board hearing she stated, on the record, that she is in support of the adoption of a Master Plan. The choice is clear. Let us move forward together and make

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Woodcliff Lake the most desirable and thriving town by voting Column 1—for Rito, Casale, and Cereijo. Carlos Rendo Mayor, Woodcliff Lake Editorʼs note: We forwarded Mayor Rendoʼs letter to former mayor Higgins and offered her space for a response. On Oct. 27 she replied, “Thank you for the information and the opportunity to rebuttal but I will be handling it on our web site. Thank you again.”

Voting for Segalas, Camp

To the editor: THE CURRENT HILLSDALE COUNCIL has failed residents in terms of leadership and fiscal responsibility. They have failed by being

unable to clearly state that black lives matter without couching it in terms that make it acceptable to certain voting blocks. They have failed to take quick, decisive action against the damage and theft of personal property in the town relating to this issue while supporting a do-nothing unity coalition created years ago while other towns establish newer, more responsive diversity

‘Fore’ a good cause

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

Photo courtesy Donna Bott

WESTWOOD

NICELY DONE. Members of Masonic Temple Lodge #173, Westwood, at their Annual Golf Outing on Sept. 23. Portions of the proceeds from the event supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Shriners Hospitals for Children. For more information on events for Temple Lodge, call (201) 664-5641.

Jeffrey Robert Emmett passed away peacefully at his home in Park Ridge on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020. He was 58. He is survived by his two daughters, Nicole Emmett, 32, and Heather Emmett, 28, who both live in Atlanta, Ga., his parents, Beverly Emmett, and Charles Emmett, and his siblings, Sue Oliver, and Douglas Emmett. Jeff proudly served as a patrolman for the Westwood Police Department for 25 years before retiring in 2011. He enjoyed helping and serving people, and often worked traffic patrol on his days off. During his career in the Westwood Police Department, he received an apprehension award and a lifesaving award. He began his career with a bachelor of science degree from William Paterson University and continued to attend training sessions. In March 2000, he was assigned as the departmentʼs child safety passenger technician, helping people with proper installation of car seats in vehicles. “Itʼs been an honor and a

privilege to serve the residents of Westwood,” Emmett said during a recognition ceremony prior to his retirement in 2011. “In my heart, Iʼm truly glad I was there over the years to assist the residents in their time of crisis and their time of need.” Jeff loved fishing, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the New Jersey Devils, Ocean City, Dunkinʼ Donuts coffee and The Park Ridge Diner. The first concert he attended was The Allman Brothers Band, setting the tone for his solid taste in music. His favorite artists were Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, Bruce Springsteen, R.E.M. and Z.Z. Top. A huge history buff, he could tell you every detail of every battle of every war, and why it mattered. He watched “Star Trek” every night at 8 and called it his “favorite hour of the day.” Jeffʼs first job was as a lifeguard in high school, setting the tone for a life of caring for the safety of others. He will be incredibly missed and is eternally loved. In lieu of flowers donations in Jeffʼs name may be made to the Westwood PBA Local 206, 101 Washington Ave., Westwood, NJ 07675 or the The Valley Hospital, 223 North Van Dien Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07450.

Jennifer HASKINS

Jennifer Haskins (nee Lake) of Hillsdale passed away on Oct. 25, 2020. Jen lived her life one way: full speed ahead. She loved being with her family, gardening, and complaining about how much work taking care of the dog and cats was, though she loved and enjoyed them a lot. She was a fixture on Hillsdale Avenue walking her Yellow Lab Watson from home to work and back. For the past 18 years Jen owned and managed the Bergen County Garden Center in Hillsdale with her husband. From 2006-2016 she was the founder and race director of the Hillsdale Rover and Clover 5K Charity Run. She was very proud of the money she raised for the Hillsdale Schools and the college scholarships for PV seniors that the charity funded. Jen grew up in Cliffside Park but lived most of her life in Hillsdale. Jen is survived by her husband of 32 years Arthur, her daughter Katie, her son Brian and his wife Laura, and two grandchildren, Dominic and Olivia. She is also survived by three older broth-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

Amalia Ragno MAY 1, 1974 – OCTOBER 26, 2020

Amalia (Amanda) Ragno, 46 and a resident of Westwood, NJ passed away on October 26, 2020. Amanda was a mother, wife, daughter, sister and sister-in-law. The most important part of Amandaʼs life was being a devoted and proud mother involved in all aspects of her childrenʼs lives: school, sports and extracurricular activities. She will always be remembered for her devotion to family, unconditional love, selflessness, strength, energy, courage and smile. Amanda is survived by her loving husband, Dino Ragno, cherished children, Arianna and Leo, beloved parents, Giacomo and Maria Maggiore, dear brother Frank (wife Diane) and dear sister Joanne, sisterin-laws, Maria (husband Erwin) and Enza (husband Chris), and nieces and nephews, Frank, Olivia, Emma, Nicholas, Stephanie, Christian, Alexandria and Julianna. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: John Theurer Cancer Center Hackensack Medical Center 92 2nd Street Hackensack, NJ 07601

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NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Jeffrey R. EMMETT

OBITUARIES

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Must go: Our Thrift Shop done we have like 12, and thatʼs because of covid. Some of our senior citizens have passed on. Younger people donʼt want to do it.” Of Woodford, she said, “Vivienʼs a pip. Sheʼs been running it for 20 years. But whatʼs she going to do? I mean, is altruism dead?” And, Gerace suggested, the loss will be felt in ways that canʼt be seen on a balance sheet. “We have people that come into the thrift store at least once a week, maybe even more often, just to talk. They come in, they shop around, maybe they buy something for $1, but there are people who need to talk to somebody. I mean itʼs literally a community service, or has been,” she said. In addition to the closeout sale, Woodford is hosting a pop-up sale the weekend of Oct. 31 at her home, at 42 Prescott St. in

FROM PAGE 1

Demarest, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We reached out to the Art School at Old Church for comment. Theyʼre between executive directors and we couldnʼt reach anybody authorized to discuss this by press time.

Landlord: ʻWe donʼt chase people outʼ Landlord Nick Theisz said as soon as the shutdown began he cut the shopʼs roughly $5,000 rent by more than half and carried the losses for months. When the store was allowed to reopen, he said, he didnʼt see a lot of activity. “Weʼre not going to reduce your rent forever. Their problem is they canʼt get help. They canʼt get enough people to staff it and make some money. You know, theyʼre all volunteers,” he told Pascack Press on Oct. 28. Theisz is a driver with the Washington Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps. His wife,

OBITUARIES FROM PAGE 37

ers: Jerry, Greg, and Jonathan Lake. In 2015 the family took a summer trip to Ireland to run in the Dublin Half Marathon. The Dublin race is one that has a time limit and runners need to reach a certain mile point by a certain time or are asked to get on a bus to be taken to the finish line. She was aware of this and trained hard to exceed that pace. She made the cutoff by a few minutes but the bus driver asked her anyway if she wanted a ride to the finish line. She replied, “I didnʼt come this bleeping far to give up now!” That sums up Jenʼs entire life. She never backed away from a challenge or quit at anything. The family encourages everyone to complete a random act of kindness in Jenʼs memory;

the world needs more kindness.

Donna D. MYATT

Donna Daybill Myatt, 74, of Hampstead, N.C., longtime Hillsdale school teacher, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020. She was born in Wyckoff on Oct. 15, 1946, daughter of the late Donald Daybill and Ethel Newcastle Daybill. Donna was a graduate of Ramapo Regional High School and West Virginia Wesleyan College and a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority. She was a teacher for 25 years in the Hillsdale school sys-

Naomi, is a corps EMT. Together they own four commercial properties on Old Hook Road, including medical offices. He added, “Itʼs not us: We gave them a whole lot of different options of things they could do… but nobody said anything. Itʼs like nobody wants to talk to anybody; I donʼt understand it.” He said heʼs leased to the shop for 15 or 20 years and presented several options to keep them. “We donʼt chase people out. We try to make it work for them. We said go month to month and see how it goes. Nobody said anything.” He said heʼs had some tenants for 30 years and understands their pain. “Itʼs not great! Itʼs not easy for the tenants. A lot of them have lost employees who wonʼt come back to work; they have restrictions on how many people they can see. Itʼs very difficult for everybody. Theyʼre starting to build

tem until retiring in 2002. Donna was an active church member throughout her life and was a member of the Dare County Master Gardeners and Wyckoff Garden Club. She enjoyed arts and crafts, especially making her beloved Christmas ornaments, quilting, stained glass and gardening. She loved watching her grandsonʼs sporting events, volunteering, traveling and spending time with family and friends. She is survived by her husband of 49 years, William “Bill” Myatt; two sons, Matthew Myatt and his wife, Jenny of Southern Shores, N.C., and Craig Myatt and his wife, Cara of Wilmington, N.C.; grandsons, Will and Tate Myatt and her beloved dog, Lilly. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Donna Myatt to the Dare County Cooperative Extension, P.O. Box 968, Manteo, NC 27954, Attn: Dare County Master Gardener Volunteers.

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their businesses back.” Asked if he had any leads on a replacement tenant, he said, “Do you want to move your operation

Brendan J. LEAHY

Brendan J. Leahy of Sussex, formerly of Hillsdale, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Oct. 20, 2020. He was 48. He leaves behind his devoted parents, Thomas and Virginia Burns Leahy of Hillsdale, and his loving sister, Gail Leahy of Ramsey. He is also survived by many uncles, aunts and cousins. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Catherine and William Leahy; and Agnes and Robert Burns. Brendan loved Irish music. He had a strong spirit and brought his family joy and memories that will last forever. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Hillsdale Food Pantry, 380 Hillsdale Ave., Hillsdale, NJ 07642.

Raymond C. BISHOP JR.

Raymond Culver Bishop Jr. of Old Bridge, formerly Park Ridge, passed away peacefully with his devoted daughter at his side on Monday, Oct. 26, 2020. He was 91 years old. Beloved husband of the late Sherrill for 47 years. Devoted father of Beth Ann Romano and her husband Thomas, and Scott M. Bishop. Cherished grandfather of Michael and his fiancee Callie Bares, Andrew and James Romano. Before retiring Ray was an Office Equipment Engineer for IBM for 35 years. He was a Seaman Recruit in the United States Coast Guard from 1953 to 1956 and a member of American Legion Post 162, Hillsdale. In lieu of flowers donations

into ours? Itʼs a great location. Everybody knows where it is. Itʼs got parking. Itʼs got everything you could want.”

in memory of Ray may be made to Reformed Church Home, 1990 Route 18 N., Old Bridge, NJ 08857, attention Kate Shepard or Paula LaBlanc.

Arthur H. OHNIKIAN

Arthur H. Ohnikian of River Vale passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020. He was 88. Born and raised in Queens, N.Y., he resided in Hillsdale for many years before moving to River Vale. Arthur proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He earned an MBA from The College of the City of New York. Mr. Ohnikian was a faithful member of St. Leon Armenian Church in Fair Lawn where he was a member of the seniors organization. Arthur was a sports enthusiast, especially of football and baseball. He was also an avid golfer. His greatest joy came from spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Prior to retiring, he owned and operated Valley Cycle in Spring Valley, N.Y., for many years. Beloved husband of the late Katherine (Aljian) Ohnikian. Loving and devoted father of Barbara Royland and husband Jon, Richard Ohnikian and wife Margaret and Robert Ohnikian and wife Linda. Dear brother of Annette Ohnikian and the late Joseph M. Ohnikian. Cherished grandfather of Christine Riedel and husband Tom, Matthew, Taline Colucci and husband Michael, Andrew, Justin, Connor, Jessica and Michael. Adored great-grandfather of Katherine, Emily and Emma. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Arthur to St. Leon Armenian Church would be appreciated.

and inclusion coalitions. They have failed again in leadership by positioning themselves on both sides of the matter with the renaming of the “Indian” mascot at PVHS, interjecting it should be up for discussion whether or not the schools continue to allow the use of the derogatory, racist term. There is a pattern of character here. Black lives matter, but… or Indian may be a racist term, but… That is not leadership, that is being intentionally and politically ambiguous for the sake of votes. The council has failed us by dragging its feet or refusing to take part in environmental issues ranging from refusal to join 130+ other communities that asked the state to act on plastic pollution, refusing to be involved in the Bergen County styrofoam initiative, or simply enacting a tree ordinance here in Hillsdale. They have failed us in fiscal matters as well. They have dragged their feet on the Paterson Street redevelopment project, which could revitalize out downtown area. Such plans should include a community center that could be used by seniors and youth of our town.

FROM PAGE 36

Pontillo for change at WW BOE

To the editor: I AM WRITING to endorse

PASCACK VALLEY

Talk Jersey with a ‘Real Housewife’ Nov. 12

The Sisterhood and Early Childhood Program of Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley invites the community to attend “Letʼs Talk Jersey with Jackie” on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 8 p.m. on Zoom. Participants will listen to Jackie Goldschneider, the only Jewish mom on the reality show “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” Jackieʼs mom will join her. According to Sisterhood copresidents Sandra Forman and Staci Klonsky, “Jackieʼs mom grew up in Israel and came to the United States at 13. She ended up graduating valedictorian of her Brooklyn high school class. It will be so interesting to meet both Jackie and her mom on Zoom.” Bravo says of Jackie, “As a mother of two sets of twins ages 11 and 9 and, happily married to her husband Evan, Jackie Goldschneiderʼs hands are completely full at all times. Worried about raising her children in a privileged home, she is determined that they grow up as strong and self-sufficient individuals. Jackie is a former real estate attorney but has

built a successful second career as a freelance journalist and newspaper columnist.” This event is open to the public. The cost is $25 per person. To register, email your name, cell number, and email address to sisterhood.tepv@gmail.com, and your registration form will be emailed to you. For more information, visit https://tepv.org/sisterhood.

Jackie Goldschneider

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

Michael Pontillo for the Westwood Regional BOE seat and encourage others to Vote Mike P for BOE. Through the campaign season I have observed the candidates, listened to the video interviews, and the choice is clear. There is no one running with a better set of credentials to fill this position. Right now, we need real leadership in this district. We need real, substantive change in this district. We need to take back control of this district for the benefit of all residents. We need to look at the future, the financial picture and the educational performance of this district. Teachers need all

the tools to succeed. Residents need taxes to remain in check. Students need the best education they can get. Let us raise the bar. Let us enhance the performance district wide. These are all issues raised by Mike during his campaign. He is the only candidate who talked about his actual ideas with specificity. He talked about his district goals and what he would work to accomplish. The Facebook Live interview was phenomenal, succinct, to the point and covered so many areas. Who better to have a say about your childʼs safety than a police chief with SWAT experience? And with the resume Mike has from his

education as well as his in-service police training to back it up? I would think that the board would want and encourage his input. There is no one currently better positioned than him for the existing BOE spot, end of story. Letʼs let someone with ideas and the ability to bring them forward a chance to do what is right. This is the time to bring the change we have been begging for. Vote for Mike P for Westwood BOE. Walter Dimick Westwood

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Letters:

In addition, voters should consider the lack of fiscal responsibility over the Stonybrook Pool. If nothing else stated here is of concern, this should worry us all. The members of the council expressed shock this past year when they “first learned” that the pool was not profitable. The pool and its budget and profitability fall under their purview. Not knowing the pool was having problems for years under their watch is certainly a case of fiscal mismanagement by the council. At best, it shows a lack of attention to detail on fiscal matters. It is time for a change and time to bring new life to the council and vote for people who can look beyond arrogant, blind party affiliation. It is time for people who can honestly examine where we are and look to the future. I will vote for Segalas and Camp and urge all seniors, parents and concerned citizens of Hillsdale to do the same. Robert Cinek Hillsdale

NOVEMBER 2, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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