Pascack Press 3.21.22 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

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

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

VOLUME 26 ISSUE 1

Final call

MARCH 21, 2022

IRON HORSE CELEBRATES 50TH Birthday cake, coffee, and a year of gifts

WESTWOOD

HUB KMART SOON TO BE STATE’S LAST Eyes on Westwood Plaza as anchor tenant wavers

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Ourpouring of love and admiration for James Mawdsley Sr., an ex-fire chief of Westwood. SEE PAGE 28

PASCACK VALLEY

BROADWAY PROJECTS IN FOCUS

Westwood, Woodcliff Lake fielding applications

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

A proposal for a three-story, seven-unit apartment building at 561–565 Broadway is set for its first public hearing on March 21 at 8 p.m. before the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The applicant, seeking preliminary and final site plan approval, is aiming for three use variances and eight additional variances. Based on sources familiar with the matter, a similar 12-unit proposal was made early last year but was withdrawn after questions arose and documents required had not been submitted. The applicant, KLR 565 LLC, represented by Matthew G. Capizzi, Tenafly, filed for its LLC on June 11, 2021. Its filing status is

See BROADWAY on page 24

Lee Tremble shows off a photo of the former Park Tavern received as a gift 10 years ago, and signed, “To Lee, Anne, and Sean — Thank you for preserving part of Westwood’s past… Love, George, Christine, and Mary Kate Mulhauser.” The Iron Horse, turning 50 on March 21, invites the community for coffee, cake, and a museum-quality tour. (John Snyder, inset photo.)

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

to The Iron Horse, where the party continues, its owners and many, many friends kicking off a year of revels to mark this local institutionʼs 50th glorious anniversary. Boasting now more than 7,000 employees since launching on March 21, 1972 — providing the setting for uncountably many seatings, parties, ONGRATULATIONS AND THANKS

IRON HORSE EXTERIOR COURTESY PHOTO

life milestones, and glad toasts along the way — The Iron Horse is that happiest of staples, here in Westwood, the Hub of the Valley. This Monday, March 21 from 11 a.m. to noon youʼre invited for birthday cake and coffee, and a tour of the establishment — complete with newly excavated photos, old menus, correspondence, souvenirs, resolutions, newspaper clippings, awards, and other ephemera. And thatʼs not counting all the local color

Continued on page 39

It might be called an infamous claim to fame: the self-described Hub of the Pascack Valley may soon host the Garden Stateʼs sole surviving Kmart discount store, in Westwood Plaza at 700 Broadway. The only other Kmart store now open in New Jersey is in Avenel, in Middlesex County; itʼs being liquidated, scheduled to close April 17, said company officials, of Transform Holdco LLC, based in Hoffman Estates, Ill. And when it closes, Westwoodʼs Kmart, open for business six days per week (closed Sundays), 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., will be one of only three remaining in the continental United States, along with stores at Bridgehampton on Long Island, N.Y., and Miami, Fla. Thereʼs one Kmart in Guam, one in Puerto Rico, and four in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Itʼs not clear how long Westwoodʼs will hang on, or what will follow in the plaza. “The Borough has had no correspondence from the Kmart property owners regarding their current or future intentions,” Mayor Ray Arroyo told us March 14. He said that to the best of his knowledge the plazaʼs propertyʼs manager, Hekemian & Co. Inc. of Hackensack, had not filed any use variance applications for the proper-

See KMART on page 334

STUDENT-ATHLETES

B ck in time...

PHHS Girls Cross Country and Girls Tennis programs dazzled in fall 2021, and were commended at the Feb. 28 school board meeting.

Spring in Park Ridge’s Depot Square is timeless and pretty as a postcard, as Kristin Beuscher proves with a view from long ago. SEE PAGE 4

SEE PAGE 13

Broadway: Westwood, Woodcliff Lake apartments

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FROM PAGE 1

listed as active and its file number is 450662450. Its registered agent is Damiano Pascali, 725 River Road, New Milford, NJ 07646. Calls to Capizzi for information about the applicant and the reduced apartment proposal were not returned by press time. According to the hearingʼs public notice, published March 10, the applicant proposes a three story building consisting of one floor of parking containing 16 parking spaces, and two floors of apartments containing a total of seven units — as well as drainage, landscaping, lighting and other associated improvements.

The proposal encompasses Block 802, Lots 1 & 2 at 561-565 Broadway, plus the so-called access easement property of Block 802, Lot 3 at 567 Broadway. Just down Broadway, the Woodcliff Lake Zoning Board is hearing an application to convert a 150-year-old building now consisting of a nonconforming threeapartment mixed-use with firstfloor retail to a six-unit apartment rental building. Woodcliff Lake residents spoke out on their concerns over trash pickup and the siteʼs density, and whether approving six units might set a precedent for Broadway proposals. The applicant planner says approval would not

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set a precedent. That hearing continues on March 30 before the Zoning Board. The future of the Broadway Corridor remains a hot-button topic among Pascack Valley residents who daily view the patchwork of shops, offices, retail and vacant locations that line the busy roadway. The proposed seven-unit apartment building requests the following use (or “D”) variances: • A use variance to permit a multifamily use in the LB-2 (Limited Business District 2) Zone; • A use variance to exceed the maximum allowable building height by more than 10% (25-foot maximum allowed vs. 31.87-foot proposed; and • A use variance to exceed the maximum allowable floor area ratio (.50 maximum allowed vs. 1.37% proposed.) Other so-called bulk (or “C”) variances requested include: • Minimum front yard setback (10-feet minimum required vs. 8.5 feet proposed); • Minimum rear yard setback (30 feet minimum required vs. 24 feet proposed; • 40% maximum building

ment building. According to May 2021 Zoning Board minutes, a previous application for 12 apartment units on the site was withdrawn by a letter from the applicantʼs then-attorney Santo T. Alampi, Esq. The minutes noted John J. Lamb, who represented objectors within 200 feet, was present. Lamb previously represented residents in the Township of Washington concerned over plans for the Viviano family of Jackson Townshipʼs plans for their American Dreams Estate off Van Emburgh Avenue. A settlement was reached in that project.

WESTWOOD

St. Thomas More Council Friday night dinner April 22

The St. Thomas More Council #2188 Westwood/Hillsdale will host the first Friday Night Dinner of the year on Friday, April 22 at 40 Crest St. in Westwood. The doors open at 6 p.m. The menu includes lasagna, meatballs, bread, salad, dessert and coffee, tea, and soda. Bar service is available. The cost is $18 per person and $45 per family (up to five children). Reservations are required and must be made by noon on

Tuesday, April 19. Payment may be mailed to the council address or deposited in the mailbox at the Council Hall entrance. All CDC guidelines are strictly followed. Monies raised provide the funds for the councilʼs many charitable activities/donations. For reservations contact Jay Rattino at jay@rattinomail.com or (973) 760-3166.

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coverage allowed vs. 57.1% proposed; • Maximum number of stories (two allowed; three proposed); • Parking is not allowed under a stilted building vs. proposed parking under a stilted building; and • A loading zone location is not permitted near a buildingʼs front vs. a proposal for a front yard loading zone. On the assessment easement property, applicant seeks approval of a plan to permit a garbage truck to enter and exit the access easement property for collecting trash along the north side of the apart-

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

MONTVALE

A public hearing is set for March 29 on final approval of a proposal to construct 25 low- or moderate-income units on a 3-plus-acre borough property on Summit Avenue. The siting, for Montvale Family Apartments, is part of the boroughʼs third-round affordable housing obligations, approved under its 2017 affordable settlement plan. Ordinance No. 2022-1517, introduced unanimously on March

WESTWOOD

8, authorizes the sale of boroughowned property at 159-161 Summit Ave. (Block 1002, Lots 3 and 5) to Montvale Family Apartments Urban Renewal LLC (subsidiary of The Walters Group, Haddonfield) for $1. According to The Walters Group, the units will be contained in a pair of three-story buildings, one of 15 units and one of 10 units. During a November Planning Board hearing, an attorney for Montvale Family Apartments Urban Renewal LLC, Damien Del Duca said the development will have 55 parking spaces, and include a bike shelter, a play-

BUDGET TALKS, FIRE TRUCK BOND MARCH 22

There will be a special meeting of the mayor and council of the Borough of Westwood on Tuesday, March 22 at 6 p.m. at the Borough of Westwood 101 Washington Ave. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the boroughʼs budget and to introduce a bond ordinance for a fire truck. The governing body reserves the right to take formal action should the need arise.

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ground and common area, fitness center and reception desk. The ordinance notes that the developer received funding for the 100% affordable project from the state Department of Community Affairs Affordable Housing Trust Fund Program. Additional funding is from the Bergen County HOME program, offering home investment partnership grants to for-profit and nonprofit affordable housing developers. The ordinance grants the nonprofit developer a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) program for the project to demonstrate the boroughʼs “consistent, continuing and

strong support for the project.” The development received final site plan approval, with related approval for a major soil movement permit, from the Planning Board last year. The ordinance also notes the Local Lands and Building Law authorizes the private sale of property not needed for public use to a duly incorporated urban renewal corporation “for the purpose of

constructing housing for low- or moderate-income persons for a price which may be nominal.” Del Duca said that The Walters Group will set income qualifications and marketing efforts in consultation with Fair Share Housing Center. We reached out to Del Duca for a timeline for construction and other details and did not hear back by press time.

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25 AFFORDABLE UNITS NEAR APPROVAL FOR SUMMIT AVENUE

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Museum seeking sale donations The Pascack Historical Societyʼs Spring Curiosity Sale is set for Saturday and Sunday, April 30 and May 1, from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. As volunteers begin preparing for the sale, they are looking for more donations. What to donate: This sale has become known for its one-of-akind attic treasures. The usual fare includes antiques, collectibles, jewelry, handbags, china, linens, silver, glassware, artwork, primitives, pottery, and other vintage bric-a-brac of all kinds. Please, no clothing, modern toys, stuffed animals, books, or media such as DVDs, VHS and CDs. How to donate: If you have items you wish to contribute, drop them off at the museum any Sunday from 1–4 p.m. or Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and PHS volunteers will provide you with a deed of gift for your tax-deductible donation. Otherwise, you can leave items on the back porch anytime— just call or email to say they are there. The museum is at 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge, and can be reached at (201) 573-0307 or info@pascackhistoricalsociety.org. Why it’s important: Since 1942, the Pascack Historical Society has been preserving and safeguarding the artifacts and documents that chronicle hundreds of years of Pascack Valley history. Run entirely by volunteers, the Society operates a free-admission museum—open Sundays from 1–4 p.m.—and holds lectures and educational programs for children and adults. PHS is not a municipal, county, or state organization. Rather, all of this is made possible through volunteer hours, paid memberships, and fund-raising events like the Curiosity Sale.

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B ck in time...

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

Park Ridge Depot Square as featured on an early 20th century postcard.

Fine day for a ride in Depot Square!

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF PASCACK PRESS

E CANNOT be certain whether this image of Depot Square in Park Ridge was captured on a spring day, but with the flowers blooming and the young man out for a bicycle ride, we like to imagine that it was. This week, as winter turns to spring in our world, we venture back 120 years for a glimpse at how life used to be. This image was featured on a postcard in the early 1900s, a time when the horse-drawn wagon was the common mode of transport for the people of the rural Pascack Valley. You can see a few of them in the background, beyond the trees. Bicycles were also very popular. In the 1880s the chaindriven safety bicycle came out, replacing that quintessentially “old-timey” model known as the pennyfarthing, or the bike with a massive front wheel and a small back wheel. The new safety bicycle—which looked much like our modern bikes— was immensely easier to ride, and much safer, as its name suggests. It launched America into a bicycle craze in the 1890s.

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Depot Square had been the center of commerce in Park Ridge ever since the railroad came through in 1871. In this picture, the train station is out of the frame to the right. In 1905 Depot Square also had a combination general store/post office

(now Cyclesport), plus a delicatessen, barber shop, and real estate office, all on Hawthorne Avenue opposite the station. The building with the awnings was for many years the office of weekly newspaper the Park Ridge Local. Some might

recall that in the 1960s and 1970s it was Knit-Town Mill Store, a sweater shop. Nowadays the Vozza Insurance Agency is there. Shown below, Depot Square from the same angle as it looks today.

A modern perspective at the same location. Depot Square became the center of action in Park Ridge with the coming of the railroad 150 years ago. Park Ridge’s station is original to that time.

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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PVRHSD preschool taking applications

The Pascack Valley Regional High School District is accepting applications for the 2022–2023 Preschool Program, part of the high schoolsʼ Family and Consumer Science Department Early Childhood and Family Education courses. All residents of Hillsdale, River Vale, Woodcliff Lake, and Montvale with children ages 3–4 can apply. Children must be 3 by Oct. 1 and

fully toilet trained. Applications are due by May 2 and can be found at https://tinyurl.com/preschool23 or on the district website, pascack.org. (Search for preschool, click Family & Consumer Science, click Preschool, then click the link for the application). For more information write Jessica Andersen at jandersen@pascack.org.

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QUESTIONS AS TOWN SHAPES $800K GRANT BID ON SWIM CLUB

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The township is applying for full reimbursement of its $800,000 anticipated cost to purchase the 6.4-acre former Washington Township Swim and Recreation Club to the countyʼs Trust Fund Land Acquisition Program, although it appeared unlikely that

grant funds would cover the purchase. According to a declaration of intent to apply, submitted by Township Administrator Robert Tovo to the county trust fund, the township is applying for full reimbursement, apparently for bonding and bond downpayment costs. The letter of intent to apply, approved March 7 and due to the county by April 8, applied to the countyʼs Open Space, Recreation,

Floodplain Protection, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund for the full amount of bonding to purchase the club. The townshipʼs grant consultant, GLD Associates Inc., is assisting with the application, senior grants consultant David Biunno told Pascack Press. According to county grant deadlines, the township must hold a public hearing on the grant application before submitting the

completed grant application on Friday, May 6. The public notices must appear a minimum of 10 days before the public hearing and the hearing must be held in the evening In addition, the grant application must include a management plan for the property acquisition. Under Management Plan, the instructions note, “State who will be responsible for the long-term maintenance of the project. This entity will be responsible for the satisfactory care, maintenance, preservation, and operation of the project. Describe, in as much detail as possible, the exact activities to be allowed on the property,” the guidelines state. “Please address these items, as necessary: pedestrian access to active, passive, and sensitive or dangerous areas of the property, ADA compliance (Americans with Disabilities Act), vehicular access and parking, signage for prohibited activities, educational and information signage, restrooms, trash management, security, lighting, etc.” A final decision on the townshipʼs application is due in November, according to the county website detailing grant requirements and deadlines. The completed township application is due Friday, May 6. In addition, the application

website notes that for acquisitions over $250,000, it also requires two independent appraisals confirming the propertyʼs value that must be submitted to the county by Friday, June 10. A resolution passed Feb. 7 by council that approved the bonding ordinance to purchase the property noted that the actual Swim Club purchase price was $750,000. On a form that Tovo submitted, he addressed questions on the land acquisition project to be funded, the value of the property above or below $250,000, whether the property owner is a willing seller and when is the property's closing date. The project description states: “Currently in use as a swim club and recreation facility consisting of 6.1 acres of land. The township will continue to use the land for recreational purposes. The property owner is a willing seller. The amount is greater then $250,000.” It was not clear why Tovo wrote the property was “in use” as a swim club as the swim club shuttered in 2020 due to the pandemic and never reopened in 2021. It was last in use only in September 2019, and then closed and never reopened. One sticking point during CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

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FIELD UPGRADES LIKELY AT MEMORIAL DRIVE ATHLETIC COMPLEX BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

MONTVALE

Four of the six baseball/softball fields at the Memorial Drive Athletic Complex are planned for infield upgrades this summer, based on a planned contract with Colliers Engineering and Design up for

approval at the March 29 Borough Council meeting. On March 29, council will vote on a resolution to approve Colliers Engineering for a $13,000 contract for professional engineering services including construction design, specs and bidding, and construction oversight services. The proposed contract notes design and bidding services at

$6,500 and construction administration services at $6,500. According to an anticipated timeline proposed by Colliers, design plans and specs are due in April. project bidding will occur in May/June, and construction is planned to start in July and finish by the end of August. “It is our understanding that the Borough has budgeted

$75,000 for these improvements,” states the Colliers Engineering proposal, submitted by Andrew Hipolit, the boroughʼs longtime engineer. The proposal notes construction starting no later than July 25 and ending no later than Aug. 26. “Please note that the above schedule is fixed and the goal is to construct the entirety of the project as outlined above, Should inclement weather occur, the construction schedule may be altered, as necessary,” notes the proposal. The proposal notes that three fields are on Montvale Board of Education property and one field is on borough property. It notes improvements will be made to fields 2, 3, 5 and 6. Regarding project oversight, Colliers Engineering and Design (CED) proposed to provide the borough with part-time, on-site observation services for the project. It said it will coordinate a preconstruction meeting for the project and maintain observation reports, and review and prepare contractor payments and change orders, as necessary. “If the contractor supplies

unacceptable work or material, CED will take an immediate course of corrective action on behalf of the Borough. CED will review all submittals for the project, including shop drawings provided by the contractor,” writes Hipolit. “Prior to completion, CED will provide the borough with a final punch list as created by the Inspector. The punch list will detail any open items along with the anticipated completion deadlines. Upon completion of the punch list items, a final site observation will be scheduled with the Contractor to close-out the project. CED will prepare the paperwork for project closeout and final payment to the contractor,” states the proposal. The Montvale Board of Education on Dec. 20, 2021 approved a field license agreement and a maintenance agreement with the borough through Jan. 1, 2024 to share the recreational fields adjacent to Memorial Elementary School and Fieldstone Middle School. The district and borough agreed to mutually share the fields adjacent to both schools and maintain specific levels of liability insurance.

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Council gets Master Plan update March 21 WOODCLIFF LAKE

After more than a year of meetings, debates, surveys and public input at 12 committee meetings and six Planning and Zoning Board meetings, the Planning Board voted March 15, overwhelmingly, to approve the newly updated 2022 Master Plan that will help guide the boroughʼs development over the next decade. The plan was prepared by Phillips Preiss Grygiel Leheny Hughes LLC, along with Neglia Engineering Associates. The Borough Council appropriated $70,000 overall for the planʼs development, which has been a contentious issue among council members and residents over its yearlong development. The 95-page plan can be accessed on the Planning Board website under a linked blue box marked “2022 Master Plan.” Voting in favor were Chair Robert Friedberg, councilman Steven Falanga, Heidi Pollack, Corrado Belgiovine, Nilufer Descherer, Brian LaRose, Thomas Panso, and Jennifer Howard. The plan goes to Borough Council on Monday, March 21, for a likely final vote and approval. Should the plan be approved by council, the council can decide to work with its professionals to draft ordinances to create and implement new design standards and zoning based on the Master Plan. Higgins appeared to abstain over concerns she raised about the recent inclusion of a specific property, the so-called five-acre Egg Farm, or Finn property, that had not previously been mentioned. Chair Robert Friedberg said a comprehensive study was done of possible larger vacant properties that could become available and potentially suitable for redevelopment. Higgins noted as a councilwoman she would get a chance to vote on the plan at the March 21 meeting. Friedberg said the farmʼs current zoning allowed one single family home per acre and the recommendation is for 4 units per acre to help provide a “more affordable to live in” option for the current property owners and other town residents in the future. He said the plan does not address the 80-acre BMW site as “thatʼs too massive to get into figuring what would go there. It's just a giant ʻwhat ifʼ it ever becomes vacant and it would be addressed at that time.” He said there were no other larger parcels in town for possible redevelopment. Five residents called in to the Zoom meeting. Most were from the east side of town, where some have regularly opposed the plan. One noted a lack of design guide-

lines that “has been plaguing the Broadway Corridor for all these years.” Craig Padover said that there “has been no comprehensive analysis approach to unify the Woodcliff Lake portion of the Broadway Corridor from Lincoln to Highview and on north, east and west side.” Padover said the plan fails to “rejuvenate the area” through expanded pedestrian walkways, proximity to shopping, mass transit, reservoir and open space.” He said he feared the Master Plan does not create “a unified vision” for Broadway and called for the plan not be adopted by the Planning Board. Friedberg said the Master Plan could not get into the many details of design. Board Planner Liz Leheney said design standards for Broadway are in place and may be expanded on via ordinances. Ann Marie Borelli worried about Broadway ending up “looking like a canyon” and said she was concerned about the heights and setbacks of buildings that may be allowed on Broadway. Leheney assured her that Broadway design standards call for buildings that “must look residential, consistent with design guidelines.” Borelli cited the larger setback at 62 Broadway as an example of what might be followed. She questioned “vague” recommended standards for commercial space on ground floors on Broadway. Friedberg said the ground floor could either be retail or residential under guidelines. Friedberg noted that “retail has changed…and every town wants a walkable downtown but we canʼt all of a sudden say weʼre going to be a Westwood, or weʼre going to be a Ridgewood, or an Englewood. It just doesnʼt happen like that.” He said “What we donʼt want to see happen is what Park Ridge did, which is force the developer of that building, The James, to put in 100% retail on the ground floor.” He said there are 16 retail units there “that in my opinion will never be rented in the next two centuries. We did not want a bunch of empties lining Broadway.” Residents Gwenn Levine and Alex Couto advocated for expanded setbacks on Broadway, with Levine calling for more and improved sidewalks for safe pedestrian passage. Couto asked what the plan proposed for maximum density along Broadway. Leheney said that 10 units per acre was the recommendation. Friedberg said the planner helped guide their recommendations, along with input from 212 resident surveys. He said the plan “represents the vision of all of the people in town” not just residents from the

East side of town. He said East side residents “have been complaining for years about the way that Broadway looks…it looks dilapidated.” He noted surveys showed residents “said it is an eyesore, it is an embarrassment, they donʼt want it to continue looking like this.” Veronica Appelle said “none of us wanted to see it [Broadway] look like it did. None of us wanted to live with a gas station for almost 20 years, abandoned like it is…we donʼt want the urbaniza-

tion of Broadway.” She said while the Broadway Corridor cannot be a downtown like Westwood or Ridgewood, “but we can look right and not overcrowded, we think.” She questioned whether board members read all the letters from residents, including her letter. Planner Corrado Belgiovine said most letters had been discussed and he had already commented on the issues raised. Attorney Brian Eyerman said all letters submitted on the Master

Plan would be kept in a public file available to residents. Friedberg noted, “We spent an enormous amount of time on this, and so have the planners, the Zoning Board, Bob Nathan, and other people whoʼve participated. We feel this is a great document and a great representation of what the people in the town are looking for in terms of vision.” He added, “It might not make everybody happy but hopefully it will make 99% of the people in the town happy.”

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One ‘no’ as ‘visible’ property number ordinance approved BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

One councilman voted against an ordinance that mandates visible house numbers, saying he opposed it over freedom concerns. Ordinance 22-05, requiring visible house and building numbers “to be affixed to all such structures” in the township, was championed by member Tom Sears in memory of his colleague Arthur Cumming, a longtime fire department volunteer, who had pulled together information on why mandating visible house numbers could expedite emergency services response to local homes and businesses. The ordinance was approved, 3–1, at the March 7 council meeting. It was intended to honor Cumming on the first anniversary of his passing. (See “Address visibility push honors the late Art Cumming,” Pascack Press, Feb. 12, 2022.) The ordinance mandates house numbers a minimum 31⁄ 2 inches in height, be of contrasting color, and “be readily visible from the street” in daylight or when a light is shone upon it. If entry shall be gained via a sidewalk, alley, walkway or driveway, numbers shall be posted on such entries, “so as to be easily seen” from that location. The ordinance takes effect 90 days after passage and publication.

SEARS

CASCIO

Under Failure to Comply, should the owner, occupant or lessee of any building “fail, refuse or neglect to post the number as required,” the chief construction official will offer two warnings, one via a doorway post and one via U.S. Mail, and give the owner 15 days to comply. Owners not in compliance within 15 days are subject to a summons to appear in Municipal Court for violation of borough code. A minimum penalty not exceeding $100 can be imposed for a first violation. For a second violation within a year the court may impose a fine above the minimum fine ($100) but below the maximum fine ($1,250). A similar ordinance in effect in Fair Lawn since 2019 calls for 31⁄ 2-inch-high numbers.

street trying to find the number.” Sears — a Planning Board member and previous councilman who returned to the dais to fill out Cummingʼs unexpired term, before taking on a new full term in the recent council reorganization — presented Poller with sample ordinances that Cumming had compiled. He asked Poller to provide a draft that included specifics mentioned by council. Sears said after looking at other townsʼ ordinances, “We can come up with a clear, nice path for our community without burdening the community.” Council Vice President Stacey Feeney said she was “glad weʼre going to be moving this forward.” New councilwoman Daisy Velez called the improved numbering rules “a great idea.” At the hearing and vote for adoption, Sears, Council vice president Stacey Feeney, and Daisy Velez voted yes. Council president Desserie

Morgan was absent. Steven Cascio, a chiropractor, voted no without comment. We reached out to Cascio after the meeting for his reason to vote no. He gave several: “Most houses already have [numbers] anyway, so itʼs basically a nuisance ordinance,” he said. He said, “Some people donʼt want to be known where they live. They want a little freedom. ʻSir, I want to remain anonymous!ʼ” And, he said, “That ordinance was designed, or put up, by Mr. Cumming for a different town. Fair Lawn is not Washington Township: They have a weird address system. Look in the phone book for Fair Lawn addresses. They have weird numbers.” In fact, Fair Lawn uses a rare street address numbering system in which most addresses are given hyphenated numbers locating the property relative to blocks from the townʼs Broadway, and up and down by numbered street — for

example, the public library, at 10-01 Fair Lawn Ave. Cascio said, “What about those people who have their mailboxes with their address on them already? Now youʼre going to force them to put their address onto their houses?” He said, “So now Iʼve got to go out and buy some numbers and put them on my house. What if I donʼt want them on my house? Itʼs really a liberty thing. You canʼt legislate everything.” He asked rhetorically, “Now, is it for the public good? It could be but I donʼt think they ever had a problem with that in the township.” He said, “Itʼs just a freedom thing. Youʼre taking liberties away from people. If Iʼm paying $20,000 in tax I should be able to put up what I want where I want on my property.” — With some reporting by John Snyder

WESTWOOD

Donate castoff sneakers at library

grounds. Others are sold at minimum cost to those in need. Sneakers will be collected at the Westwood Library during March. For more information call Deen at (201) 573-1643.

GFWC/NJSFWC the Womanʼs Club of Westwood is collecting unwanted sneakers in any condition. This keeps sneakers out of landfills and repurposes many into new surfaces such as play-

Aiming to save lives At the measureʼs introduction, Sears, a longtime volunteer firefighter, said, “You know how many times we have responded to a fire call, and sometimes the police get there before us, and I see them walking up and down the WESTWOOD

Food, wares, fun! Shop the Hub April 2

Saturday, April 2 will be one of the biggest shopping and dining days in Westwood as Celebrate Westwood brings back “Shop the Hub!” to coincide with opening day for Westwood baseball and softball leagues. Residents and neighbors are encouraged to save the date; Westwood businesses are encouraged to register as a participant.

Celebrate Westwood created Shop the Hub days in spring 2020 as a way to create the spirit of a sidewalk sale in which many businesses participate toward a common goal, without needing to close the streets. Participants have set up merchandise or activity tables along the sidewalk adjacent to their storefront, created sales or high-

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lighted already ongoing promotions and menu items, and have invited unique pop-up experiences! Sales, specials, and sips at the discretion of individual businesses. For businesses to take full advantage of publicity for the event provided by Celebrate Westwood, registration must be completed by Monday, March 21, at tinyurl.com/registerShopTheHub. During the spring 2021 event, municipal parking saw an increase of 60% in the use of the ParkMobile app as compared to the previous Saturday, and anecdotally, many businesses reported seeing new customers, many of whom had been visiting Westwood for the first time. That event linked 35 businesses across town and celebrated six grand openings. This year, Celebrate Westwood says it looks forward to surpassing that record. Businesses can opt in to all four 2022 Shop the Hub events with one click, and receive a discount on the nominal fee levied to cover materials (flyers and oversized mylar balloons to mark participation). The Westwood Chamber of Commerce is offering discounts for Shop The Hub participation for all paid, active members.

LIBRARY CALENDAR: PROGRAMS THIS WEEK

HILLSDALE 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org • Join Maria on the library patio and start the day with a Chair Yoga class. Chair Yoga brings the floor to you and is a gentle but satisfying workout ideal for seniors or those who find regular yoga too aggressive. Thursday, March 24, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Registration required. Class will be moved indoors in bad weather. • Zumba via Zoom is Thursday, March 24 at 4:30 p.m. Janet Weller, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, leads a dance-based workout. Register for Zoom link. • The Hillsdale Library will celebrate New Jersey Makers Day Saturday, March 26. Local artists,

crafters, makers, and inventors will be showcased in a one-day exhibition of creativity and craft. Visit the library for demonstrations and giveaways. Make a button on the button machine. Watch the laser cutter in action. Meet your creative neighbors. See the libraryʼs website for details.

MONTVALE 12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org • Montvale Cookbook Supper Club will meet to discuss Stanley Tucciʼs “Taste: My Life Through Food” Monday, March 21 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Email therese.jones@montvale.bccls.or gto register. • Strength Training for Seniors, a virtual program, increases flexibility, strength, and endurance using easy-to-follow movements. Via Zoom, every Thursday at 1 p.m. Visit the libraryʼs website to register for as many sessions as you want. • Turning 65? Planning on retiring? Caring for a Medicare beneficiary? If you will soon become part of the Medicare system, log onto Zoom for the virtual seminar, “Most Common Medicare Mistakes You Should Avoid,” Thursday, March 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. Register online. PARK RIDGE 51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org • Join Miss Renee for Storytime every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 10 a.m. in the First Friends room (across the hall from the library). Geared towards toddlers and preschool age, but open to all. Registration required. • Virtual Take-and-Make Crafts with Miss Renee is every Friday at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook page. Miss Renee walks kids through a fun craft at home. Call or stop at the library during the week to pick up your craft kit. The videos remain on Facebook; check them out live or anytime your schedule allows. • Virtual Book It! Club with Miss Eileen meets live on the libraryʼs Facebook page Saturdays from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Stories, science, and more geared towards kids in primary grades.

for fourth grade and up, Miss Jess will be on hand to help kids make a rainbow keychain. Monday, March 21 from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Registration is required. • Mario Medici presents “Great Women Artists of the Early 20th Century,” Wednesday, March 23 from 6 to 7 p.m. This lecture, to be held in-person and also streamed online via Zoom, will focus on three female artists of different backgrounds: Georgia OʼKeeffe, Mary Cassatt, and Frida Kahlo. All had to overcome gender barriers in their

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EMERSON 20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org • The library will hold a Teen/Adult Spring Craft on Monday, March 21 from 2 to 3 p.m. Create a unique wall hanging with faux spring materials on a wood weaving loom. No experience necessary. There is also a grab-and-go option for those who would rather complete the craft at home. Choose your option during registration. Open to Emerson residents only. • Parents, this class is for you and your little ones—just follow along! Baby & Me, 2 and under, meets Tuesdays at 11 a.m. An introduction to songs, dance and fingerplays with stuffed animals and rhymes. Register for each date you plan to attend. • Chair Yoga for adults is Tuesday, March 22 from 1:30 to 2 p.m. Participants gently move their bodies, gain strength and flexibility, and find some peace together in this fully supported, adaptable class. Registration required. This class also offers a virtual option. • Boogie Woogie Babies is a virtual dance class for Baby and their big person. Designed for babies, toddlers, young children, and their families, itʼs a high-energy class with singing and dancing to boost fine motor skills. Wednesday, March 23 at 10 a.m. on the libraryʼs Facebook and YouTube. • Fairy tales! Mysteries! Adventures! Join Miss Victoria for Afternoon Storytime every Thursday in March at 3:30 p.m. Open to all children 2–5. Registration is recommended, but drop-in welcome. One adult per family in the program area. Masks required.

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MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Construction finalizing on Thrive at Montvale

Thrive Senior Livingʼs venture “to build more connected, humancentric communities” continues with the ongoing construction of Thrive at Montvale. The community, located at DePieroʼs Farm, remains on track to open mid-spring, according to a March 14 company press release. In an effort to build “more familiar” living environments for older adults, the new, state-of-the-art Thrive at Montvale will highlight Thriveʼs mission: forming social communities focused on the connectiveness of the human experience.

“Thrive at Montvale will undoubtedly be our most vibrant, innovative community yet,” said Thriveʼs President & CFO, Sebby Kannukkaden. “This community will not look anything like the more clinical days of old. We are creating an environment where our residents will be proud to invite visitors and will be encouraged to meet their neighbors. Weʼve designed beautiful, retreat-style apartment living and unmatched amenities to offer our residents space to be independent, social and, most importantly, happy to be home.”

Just off the Garden State Parkway and near the serene Lake Tappan,” the three-story community will provide residents with 203 apartments across independent living and assisted living, with a small-house model senior living environment focused on providing memory care. This small-house model is designated as “Covid-consciousʼ” helping curb the spread of Covid-19 through the modelʼs community architecture. All three styles of housing are available. “The ground-breaking community is set to include plenty of

options for both sit-down and takeaway meals at chef-inspired restaurants including Saltbox and The Garden Room. Saltbox will also feature Barrique Wine Bar with wine lockers for residents to store their collections. Both of these restaurants boast views of the grand 33,150 square-foot Social Court,” reads the press release. It adds, “The enormous interior green space is designed as a gathering place for residents, friends and family, enabling vibrant outdoor social connectivity for over a hundred people as locals gather for concerts on the lawn, movies, yoga and much more.” Thrive at Montvale will keep residents active in top-of-the-line exercise spaces including two professional-grade pickleball courts, a bocce ball court, and an Athlete Center, featuring a personal training stu-

dio.

To foster residentsʼ creativity and imagination, the community will also include a cinema with a 120-inch movie screen and the Meraki Art Studio—inspired by the Greek word “Meraki” meaning “to do something with soul, creativity or love.” Other daily, weekly and monthly activities at the community will include garden club, book club, and happy hour. While progress continues on the rest of the building, the Thrive at Montvale Welcome Center remains open at 295 W. Grand Ave, for prospective families and older adults. It is open for walk-ins and inperson appointments as well as tours and can be reached at (201) 201-8815. For more information visit ThriveSL.com/Montvale.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

VFW Post 6192 salutes Vietnam vets at 50th

VFW Memorial Post 6192 of Washington Township will be conducting a ceremony of the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Vietnam War. The ceremony will be held Tuesday, March 29 at 10 a.m. at Bethany Community Center, 605 Pascack Road. U.S. Armed Forces personnel with active duty service between Nov. 1, 1955 and May 15, 1975, regardless of your duty location, are cordially invited. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, 9 million Americans served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during the period of the Vietnam War; approximately 6 million are living in America and abroad today. The post is commanded by Steven Kohlreiter. Its website says in part, “As yesterdayʼs defenders of freedom, we want to welcome todayʼs military service members into our ranks to become part of

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our elite group. Our common bond is the battlefield, whether it is service in the Persian Gulf, Korea, Kosovo, the war on terrorism or peace-keeping expeditionary campaigns. Your courage and sacrifice have made a difference in preserving and defending world peace.” For more information visit vfw6192.org, find the post on Facebook at VFW Post 6192 Twp of Washington NJ, or write vfwpost6192@gmail.com.

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Student-athletes shine at BOE meeting; board seat open PARK RIDGE

The Park Ridge Board of Education honored the districtʼs fall 2021 sports standouts at its Feb. 28 meeting.

Score! PHHS Girls Cross Country and Girls Tennis programs dazzled in fall 2021, and were commended at the Feb. 28 school board meeting. (Via Twitter) berg, East Brook LDT-C, due to retirement, both effective July 1.

Presented by Chris Brown, honors went to: • Girls Cross Country – NJIC Patriot Division Champions, NJIC Conference Champions, Bergen County Small School Champions, North 1 Group 1 Champions, and BCWCA Small School Team of the Year; • Michael Farrell – NJIC Patriot Division Coach of the Year and Bergen County Coach of the Year; • Girls Tennis – NJIC Patriot Division Champions; and • Bergen Record Athlete of the Week (female), Christine Richiez, tennis, for the week of Oct. 7.

Summer camps and clinics At the same meeting, the board approved camps/clinics and coaches for the summer: • Youth co-ed basketball camp, grades 2–9, Ryan Dennis and William Allen; $225. Boys basketball camp; grades 3–8, Brian Koch; $200. • Girls basketball camp, grades 2–9; Ryan Dennis and William Allen; $225. • Baseball camp, grades 1–8, Dylan Evans; $175. • Softball camp, grades 1–9, William Allen and Richard Eichenlaub; $195. • Volleyball camp, grades 1–9, William Allen; $200. (Check with the district for dates, locations, and more information.) Retirements The board accepted the resignation of Sharon Smith-Raska, high school English teacher, due to retirement, and Teresa Green-

EE s FR ate im Est

Scholarship funds accepted; legal bills swamp line item As well, the board accepted a $10,000 monentary donation from the Teddy Gunther Memorial Scholarship Fund to be used duirng the 2021–2022 school year. It also recognized that the distictʼs actual legal costs for the 2021–22 fiscal year exceeded 130% of the statewide per pupil average. It said it “has undertaken steps to reduce these costs by restricting access to the board attorney to only authorized personnel and having the auperintendent and business administrator review every legal bill before payment.” The board said the excess legal costs incurred are the result of “a litigation, grievances, protracted negotiations, and/or due process hearings initiated against the district, which the district has been compelled to defend and over which the district has no control.” Minutes of the meeting say the board resolved that it “will look for more ways to reduce these costs should the opportunity present itself.” Buildings and Grounds Resolutions Under Buildings and Grounds Resolutions, the board approved the use of facilities applications by Soccer Shots, for use of West Ridge Fields, and the Harlem Wizards, for use of high school gyms, both April 2–June 11. Tennis court replacement; nurseʼs suite and restroom renovation Upon the recommendation

D FERRAIOLI

of the superintendent, the Park Ridge School District Board of Education authorized Parette Somjen Architects to submit all necessary plans and paperwork to the Department of Education concerning tennis court replacement at Park Ridge High School to serve as an application to the office of school facilities and an amendment to the Districtʼs Long-Range Facility Plan. This project shall be a capital reserve project and the board is not seeking state funding but will fund the project through the districtʼs reserve account. The board also authorized Parette Somjen Architects to submit all necessary plans and paperwork to the Department of Education concerning the nurseʼs suite and restroom renovations at Park Ridge High School to serve as an application to the office of School Facilities and an amendment to the Districtʼs LongRange Facility Plan. This project, too, shall be a capital reserve project and the board is not seeking state funding but will fund the project through the districtʼs reserve account. The district similarly

approved Parette Somjen Architects concerning restroom renovations at East Brook and West Ridge elementary schools.

Candidates for school board sought On March 14, the district announced that it is seeking a qualified candidate to join the board due to a recently created vacancy. Nicholas Triano, who joined

the board in 2000, left due to a change in his work schedule. The member will serve until the board reorganizes in January 2023. The position will be placed on the ballot at the annual election in November for a three year term. The deadline for submission is Friday, April 1 at 4 p.m. For more information on qualifications and how to apply, visit parkridgeschools.org.

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League of Women Voters meet and greet March 24

The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley (LWVNV) invites the public to learn about the League of Women Voters and attend a virtual meet and greet conducted by the League of Women Voters of New Jersey via Zoom on Thursday, March 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. Participants may join via bit.ly/northernvalleymeetandgreet. Joyce Luhrs, vice president of Marketing, League of Women Voters of Northern Valley, said the focus will be on the Leagueʼs priorities, available voter service resources, and opportunities to get involved in the organizationʼs efforts. “Find out about the Leagueʼs extensive hands-on programs, including The Advocacy Training Program, The Lobby Corps, Get Out the Vote, the Slack and Outreach Circle, and available committees to join,” Luhrs said in the Leagueʼs invitation. Residents from more than 20

The LWVNV March 24 meet and greet focuses on the League’s priorities, voter service resources, and opportunities to get involved. At right: co-president Lucy Heller moderates a mayor and council candidate debate in the Township of Washington in the runup to the 2021 general election. (Her photo via WCTV-NJ, which televised the event.)

Bergen County towns will hear from the League of Women Voters of New Jerseyʼs community organizers Melissa Marks and Assatta Mann about the Leagueʼs advocacy work, voter education efforts, and outreach to supporters

MONTVALE

KPMG is staying put in borough, says mayor

Mayor Michael Ghassali says he, the borough engineer, the Planning Board chairman, and members of the Economic Development Committee met with leadership from KPMG on March 15 and came away with good news: “KPMG confirmed that they are staying in Montvale and will continue to occupy the 44-acre buildings complex on Chestnut Ridge Road. In fact they will be investing in these buildings to make them even more attractive and better utilized.” Ghassali notes, “So any rumors of KPMG moving and selling their buildings are just that, rumors. KPMG is our biggest employer in town and in the top three in the county. I am grateful for the relationship we have with them and that allows for the open and candid conversations we have, and they know they have 24/7 access directly to me.” The mayor, in his March 16 outreach to residents, adds, “Thank you, KPMG, for choosing Montvale.” He also lists “eight great businesses” new to town and taking about 17,000 square feet of office space, and wishes them success and prosperity.

cy.”

GHASSALI

He says, “It gives me great pleasure to see more businesses choose Montvale to move in and expand in as we begin to get back to normal-

• Reproductive Possibilities, LLC and Surrogate Fund Management LLC, 1 Paragon Drive, Suite 160, 4,673 sq. ft. • Melissa B. Brisman, Esq. LLC , 1 Paragon Drive, Suite 115, 1,236 sq. ft. • M&T Excavation Inc., 180 Summit Avenue, 2,594 sq. ft. • Lannieʼs Cleaners/Peter Sung, 2 Railroad Ave., 1,900 sq. ft. • Bergen Physical Medicine LLC, 221 W. Grand Ave., 1,680 sq. ft. • Gezunt Diagnostics LLC, 50 Chestnut Ridge Road, Suite 221, 2,328 sq. ft. • Fogel Klein LLC, 50 Chestnut Ridge Road, Suite 202, 3,597 sq. ft. • Millennium Medical Billing Inc., 135 Chestnut Ridge Road, 2,261 sq. ft. — Staff report

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and members. A Q&A will follow and provide information about the different levels of the League and the League of Women Voters of Northern Valley. Founded in 1920 by leaders of the womenʼs suffrage movement and six months before the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, giving women the right to vote, the League has empowered citizens to shape better communities through information and advocacy. The League remains non-partisan and does not support political parties or candidates. It works to protect and strengthen democracy by educating the public and urging citizens to participate in the political process by becoming informed voters and active in all levels of government.

The League provides individuals with the opportunity to meet people actively involved in and engaged in their community, who value nonpartisan, reliable information. The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley was founded in 1946 as the League of Women Voters of Closter. By 1964, the chapter included 11 municipalities in the Northern Valley and was renamed the League of Women Voters of Northern Valley. Membership in the League is open to both men and women, who are at least sixteen years of age and supportive of its mission. The LWVNV draws members from these 29 municipalities in Bergen County, New Jersey: Alpine, Bergenfield, Cliffside Park, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Dumont, Edgewater, Emerson,

Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Fort Lee, Hackensack, Harrington Park, Haworth, Hillsdale, Leonia, Montvale, New Milford, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Park Ridge, River Vale, Rockleigh, Tenafly, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake. For more information about the LWVNV, membership or to get involved in voter service activities, wrie lwvno.valley@gmail.com. Learn more about the LWVNV on the organizationʼs website, bit.ly/LWVNVinformation.

About League of Women Voters of Northern Valley The League of Women Voters of Northern Valley, a chapter of the League of Women Voters (LWV), is a non-partisan, grassroots civic organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. The LWV was an outgrowth of the 19th Amendment passed in 1920 giving women the right to vote. Today, the LWV operates at the state and local levels through more than 700 state and local Leagues in all 50 states and in Washington D.C., the Virgin Islands and Hong Kong.

Stonybrook Swim Club Open House May 21

HILLSDALE

Stonybrook Swim Club is hosting its first open house May 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. New members get 10% off their membership. Opened in 1940, Stonybrook Swim Club is a 12-acre property with a 50-meter pool, an intermediate pool, a kiddie pool and a diving pool, a 14-foot slide and a small slide for little kids, and a heated 25-meter competition pool. Its director, Patty Hughes, says the pools are the hub of summer activity at Stonybrook, which was named (201) Magazineʼs 2020 No. 1 Swim Club in Bergen County. “We have something for everyone, from beginners learning to swim, to adults getting their workout in, to our championship swim and dive team holding exciting meets. The great sense of community is seen through the constant stream of Stonybrook Swim Club activities.” There are a variety of daily kidsʼ activities, including camps,

swim lessons and arts and crafts classes, which are available to members and non-members. Some of the newer camps include the Guppy Swim Camp and the Fin Fitness Camp for children ages 5–12, and adults. The club offers a number of membership options to fit almost any interest or budget. For those people whose children may be grown and are looking for a place to grab sun and fun, Stonybrook offers an “Empty Nester” membership for ages 50-61. Stonybrook Swim Club

offers a broad range of activities beyond the pools. Members have access to the basketball court, playgrounds, ping-pong tables, plus theme nights, movie nights, and “live” bands and music. The club also features a fullservice snack bar, two gazebos and a pavilion for shade, hot showers, state of the art changing areas, and tiled bathrooms. Stonybrook Swim Club: 380 Hillsdale Ave., (201) 497-1560, hillsdalenj.org/stonybrook.

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

That’s Captain Savino, lieutenants Duardo and Sokerka EMERSON

Scores of friends, family and fellow officers crowded Borough Hall council chambers March 15 to celebrate as the Emerson Police Department promoted three officers, including one captain and two lieutenants. The sessionʼs first half-hour was filled with the swearing-in of new Captain Mark Savino, and official oath-taking by newly promoted lieutenants Rocco Duardo and Ryan Sokerka. Mayor Danielle DiPaola officiated before a packed chamber. Police Chief Michael Mazzeo told Pascack Press, “First of all, I am proud of all of the officers that participated in the captain and lieutenant process. They all did a great job interviewing in front of the mayor and council.” He said, “They presented themselves as true professionals and leaders that represent the department with distinction. I wish I could promote all of them but as you know that is not reality and tough decisions must be made.” He thanked DiPaola and the Borough Council “for doing a great job.” Savino, promoted from lieu-

tenant, has 25 years of experience as an Emerson police officer, nine years of supervisory experience, and 11 years of emergency management experience. He has a bachelorʼs degree from Springfield College, in Massachusetts, and was an active motorcycle officer, department chaplain, and Bergen County Arson Squad member. Mazzeo said, “He is best known for having a positive attitude, a commitment to getting the job done, has a great work ethic and rarely ever misses a day of work. We are happy to have him as our new captain.”

The happy scene at Borough Hall, March 15, via Emerson Proud.

Following the ceremony for Savino, the departmentʼs two new lieutenants were sworn in and received their badges from the mayor and police chief. Sgt. Rocco Duardo, a 20-year Emerson Police veteran with six years of supervisory experience as a patrol sergeant, was sworn-in first. Mazzeo told Pascack Press that “a peer review had him rated most ready to be a lieutenant. The officers believe that he is a knowledgeable supervisor that has strong leadership skills and genuinely cares about their development.” The chief said Duardo “puts a

lot of time into training the officers in the area of firearms and active shooter and has a pride in taking on an assignment and getting it completed on time and done right. He is very deserving of being selected as the first lieutenant.” Sgt. Ryan Sokerka, with 13 years of experience as an Emerson police officer, has a bachelorʼs degree from John Jay College and five years of supervisory experience. He was a supervisor in the Detective Bureau, a former juvenile officer, Police Benevolent Association (PBA) delegate, and a Rapid Deployment Team member. Mazzeo said Sokerka “possessed the highest overall evaluation scores in the department and has earned the respect from his peers and supervisors for being one of the most well-rounded and knowledgeable officers that goes out of his way to help and teach others.” He added, “His knowledge, hard work, attention to detail and organizational perspective has earned him the right to be recognized. We are proud of his accomplishment in becoming the second lieutenant.” The newly promoted officers each offered thanks to the mayor, council members, Mazzeo — and other former officers of all ranks who acted as mentors and coun-

selors to them over the years.

Budget notes During a brief budget hearing that followed, Mazzeo noted the department was awaiting the September Police Academy graduation of two new officers, which should help to reduce overtime costs. He said overtime increased to $168,000 in 2021 from $120,000 in 2020. He said increased overtime was required to cover officer sick callouts and also dispatcher callouts. The police departmentʼs 2021 budget listed personnel costs for 21 officers at slightly over $4 million. He said Savino would be investigating what new radio communication system would be best for local police, fire and ambulance and inter-municipal emergency communications. And he said funds from the federal American Rescue Plan appropriation may be able to fund the new radio system. Moreover, Mazzeo said his 2022 budget included new Watchguard dash cameras for six patrol cars, and a new Ford all-wheeldrive police vehicle. Prices were not discussed during the hearing. The municipal budget will be introduced at the April 5 council meeting.

EMERSON

Mayor reports on Family Town business; budget hearing April 5

Mayor Danielle DiPaola said the total reported positive cases of Covid-19 for January were 315 and the total reported positive cases of Covid-19 for February were 28. Reporting at the March 15 meeting of the Borough Council, she said as of that day there were 15 total positive cases for March. Also in the mayorʼs report: • The Volunteer Ambulance Corps is still in need of volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, please contact the Borough

Clerkʼs office for further information at (201) 262-6086 option 9. • The 2021 Senior Freeze Program reimburses eligible DIPAOLA senior citizens and disabled persons for property tax increases on their principal residence. To qualify, you must meet all eligibility requirements for each

year from the base year through the application year. The deadline to file is Oct. 31. Applications may be picked up at the Tax Office in Borough Hall. More information is available on the borough website. • Memorial Day is coming quickly and in order to have a Military Tribute Banner displayed for the season, it is suggested that you place your order soon. For more imformation visit the borough website. • “I noticed there have been

PARK RIDGE

PARK RIDGE POLICE RESERVE SEEKS OFFICERS

The Reserve Unit of the Park Ridge Police Department seeks new officers. The Reserve Unit is committed to upholding the Constitution, community, and agency it serves. The unit relies upon the professionalism, dedication, and commitment of its officers to accomplish this task. The vision of the Reserve Unit is to work as a vital part of the police department in building and maintaining the strong bonds of a healthy community policing program. This will be accomplished by providing all officers with the tools they need. In turn, the unit will assist the police department in meeting the challenges of reducing crime, creating a safer community, and improving the quality of life. The core values of this Unit are: integrity, professionalism, commitment, moral character, mutual respect, and teamwork. Applications to become a reserve officer in Park Ridge are now being accepted. Applicants should

understand they are volunteering to contribute to the overall mission of the unit. Individuals are expected to be professional on and off duty and will be held accountable for their actions at all times. Before applying, make sure you and your family are ready for what will be required of you. In order to qualify you must be a citizen of the Unites States, live within five miles of Park Ridge (provided no program exists in your municipality), be at least 18, be in good physical and mental health, be at least a high school graduate, not have a criminal record or unsatisfactory driving record (background check required), successfully complete the next training class (classes to be held at night for three months), and expect to serve around 150 hours a year (includes training and duty time). For more information and an application, call Sgt. DiBlasi at (201) 391-5400 ext. 5232 or stop by police headquarters at 33 Park Avenue, Park Ridge.

inquiries about the Environmental Commissionʼs Community Garden for the season as well as other projects. Please stay tuned as information will be forthcoming after their meeting next week.” • Mixed garden debris pickup will begin again on Monday, March 21 and continue every Monday through the end of the year. Please place items out on Sunday after 6 p.m. or on Monday before 6 a.m. All mixed garden debris should be in paper bags or reusable containers. • The County of Bergen is seeking poll workers for the 2022 Primary and General Elections. If you have questions, call the Bergen County Board of Elections at visit (201) 336-6230, pollworker.nj.gov or call the Emerson Borough Clerk at (201) 262-6086 option 9. • The senior bus service continues to run on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you would

like to get out during the nicer weather, call Stacy at (201) 2626086 ext. 1212 to book a ride. • Congratulations to Capt. Mark Savino, Lt. Rocco Duardo, and Lt. Ryan Sokerka on their promotions. • “I just want to remind people that during Covid-19 it was difficult for the governing body to celebrate all the outstanding achievements of our student athletes and Emersonians. In the coming months we will be celebrating these accomplishments at the beginning of our meetings. Please check our agendas to see when we will be recognizing one of your friends or neighbors.” • Our meetings are open to the public and we welcome your participation at all of our meetings. The next regular meeting and introduction of the 2022 Municipal Budget will take place on Tuesday, April 5 at 7:30 p.m.

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Dining & Cooking Guide

Can’t get out to Giulio’s Restaurant? Prepare its signature dish at home

Giulioʼs Restaurant meets a full array of dining and entertaining needs. Giulioʼs welcomes walk-ins, but takes reservations and offers takeout. Giulioʼs will be delighted to host your holiday business of family parties. Seating is available for up to 100. Catering is also offered and the restaurant has a full bar, including over 100 wines. Enjoy making our Signature Dish at Home!

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Club News? We are the Pascack Valley’s hometown newspaper! Let us help promote your club or organization. Send your news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or mail to: Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

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East Brook PTO Golf Outing, Dinner April 28

PARK RIDGE

East Brook School PTO announces its inaugural Golf Outing and Dinner, April 28 at Blue Hill Golf Course, “27 holes of golf overlooking Lake Tappan in Pearl River, the largest hamlet in the Town of Orangetown, N.Y.” Thereʼll be two divisions: a two-person scramble and a fourperson team scramble. Organizers say, “Put together your own team or we can help you blend a team with other golfers already signed up. Solo players are welcome too.” $165 per golfer includes lunch, golf, cart, beer, soda, snacks and prizes. Lunch is 11 a.m., shotgun start is at 12:30 p.m. An optional dinner follows at the Elks in Park Ridge for an additional $30 for golfers or $70

Blue Hill Golf Course in Pearl River, N.Y. for standalone dinner reservations ty back together and have a fun day on the golf course to support (non-golfers). Catherine Lu of the East our kids.” For more info and to register, Brook PTO tells Pascack Press, “The pandemic has really limited write eastbrookgolf22@gmail.com. some of our fundraising opportu- Or call Nate Brown at (952) 210nities for schools. This is a great 6637. You also can sign up by visopportunity to launch a new and iting eastbrookpto.membershiptoolkexciting way to get our communi- it.com/golfanddinner.

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Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center

Registration is open at Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center for the 2022-2023 School year. The center is at 64 1st Ave. Zion, offering programs for children 2 1⁄ 2, 3, and 4 years old, is located in a safe residential area away from main streets and traffic. Within small classes led by certified teachers, each student is viewed as a unique creation with special gifts and talents. Through a Christian curriculum, children learn of the wonderful world God has created for them. They are

encouraged to explore this world through a hands-on approach to

learning. Responsibility, accountability, and respect are encouraged. Children learn how to properly interact with others in word and deed. For information call the school office, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Thursday, at (201) 664-8060, visit the school at zionlutheranschool.org and follow on Facebook. ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY IN THE PASCACK PRESS.

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HILLSDALE

HUMC HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE MARCH 26

Hillsdale United Methodist Church invites you to a holiday boutique on Saturday, March 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. This event is sponsored by the United Methodist Women, who work all year to raise funds for missions around the world. According to the event announcement, “This is a chance for our community to shop for the spring in a way that will benefit others. Shopping local and sup-

porting our church will be the best way to get some great products as well as support our missions.” Youʼll find an abundance of craftware, the work of local artisans, jewelry, skin care products, and more. Admission is free all are welcome. Local businesses and organizations interested in participating should contact Lesa Brinker at umwrocks@gmail.com or call (201) 390-7442.

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Commissioners clear grants for food banks

On Tuesday, March 1, the Bergen County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to approve

WESTWOOD

$503,000 of grant funding to support the local nonprofits fighting hunger in Bergen County.

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP MEETS TUESDAY, APRIL 12

Seniors 55 and up, join the Westwood Senior Fellowship the second Tuesday of the month at 11:30 a.m. at Westwood Community Center, 55 jefferson Ave. During the year the group enjoys luncheons, trips and special events.

The next meeting, April 12, features a Westwood police offer, who will speak on how to protect yourself against scams. All seniors are welcome to attend. For more information call (201) 664-4538.

HILLSDALE

Hike For Hillsdale Saturday, April 9

Connect with nature and join the Hillsdale Education Foundation for an outdoor family adventure through the trails of Sapienza Gardens, Hillsdale Brook, on Saturday, April 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thereʼll be vendors, activities, fitness fun, and more. Hillsdale Education Foundation is a non-profit, 501C (3) charitable tax-exempt organization providing enrichment programs

need to meet the ongoing unprecedented need and enable them to handle any economic shocks in the future.” The Bergen County Food Security Task Force, founded by Zur, was formed in July 2020 as a response to the skyrocketing need for food and services after the onset of the pandemic. The Task Force has been working to connect the food providers in Bergen County and assist them in sourcing best practices and sustainable solutions to combat the persistent levels of hunger in the community. To register a nonprofit organization with the Bergen County Food Security Task Force, write bcfoodtaskforce2020@gmail.com

service to Bergen County residents in need. “Our food pantries and nonprofit organizations are essential partners in our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said County Executive James Tedesco. “These sustainability grant funds will ensure that our network of community pantries remain well stocked and will continue providing vital services to Bergen County residents who need help the most.” “Despite the fact that it has been two years since the pandemic hit our community, the levels of food insecurity remain high, and our pantries need our support” said Commissioner Chairwoman Tracy Silna Zur. “These funds will equip our partners with the tools they

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Forty-seven food pantries located across the county are expected to receive these grant funds for much needed infrastructure and supplies specific to the needs of their organization such as computers, tablets, shelving, refrigerators, freezers, tents, and reusable bags. Applicants are set to be notified by the end of the week about the status of their awards. The Bergen County Food Security Task Force established the grant program this past fall using American Rescue Act funds. The Task Force opened the grant program to any eligible local nonprofit that operates a food pantry, hosts a meal distribution event, or provides a food delivery

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leadership skills with thousands of clubs worldwide. Itʼs great training for job interviews and membership on resumes is impressive. Learn and have fun in a friendly, supportive environment at one of the premiere Toastmasters clubs in

Northern New Jersey. Meetings are held on the first and third Monday of each month, currently on Zoom from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Guests are always welcome. For more information, call: (201) 767-3063 or visit 3181.toastmastersclubs.org.

WESTWOOD REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Also, it’s part of a balanced breakfast

Westwood Regional High School posted on March 9, “Students in Ms. Gilbertʼs chemistry class use Froot Loops to demonstrate limiting reactants.” Also called a limiting reagent, this is the reactant that gets consumed first in a chemical reaction and therefore limits how much product can be formed. Khan Academy gives the example of hot dogs: If you have five hot dogs and four hot dog buns, how many complete hot dogs can you make? (The bun in this case is the limiting reactant, so you can produce four complete hot dogs.) — Staff

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Zion Lutheran ECC fundraiser back in person May 21

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accepted until April 1. The drive welcomes gift certificates, items to be included in the tricky tray, or monetary donations. There are also tiered opportunities for corporate sponsorship. Organizers say theyʼre grateful to all of our local businesses, families, alumni, and congregation for your continued support of the schoolʼs earliest learners. For a donation form and arrange a pickup, write ZionWWFundraising@gmail.com. Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center (64 First Ave.) was established in 1969 (as Zion Lutheran Nursery School) to provide families with preschool children a place where the child could be part of a program designed to help him/her grow socially, intellectually and creatively in a Christian atmosphere. The programs are designed to help each child come to greater awareness of the world and the people around them through broad exposure to language, mathematical concepts, social studies and science concepts, arts, music, and motor and visual coordination. The preschool program has grown and developed over the years to become one that is highly

Pre-K T-ball registration open

Local children entering kindergarten this fall are eligible to take part in the spring T-ball program. The 2022 clinic runs Saturdays from 1 to 2 p.m. April 30; May 7, 14, and 21; and June 4 and 11 (no session Memorial Day weekend) at Holdrum School field. The cost is $50 per child.

Registration is required via River Valeʼs Community Pass system through March 31. Want to enrich your child's experience? Become a coach. No baseball/softball experience is necessary. For the requirements, visit the town website, rivervalenj.org.

RIVER VALE

Rotary scholarship application available

The Park Ridge Rotary Charitable Foundation is granting college scholarships to local high school students this year. Scholarships are available to seniors living in Park Ridge, Montvale, and Woodcliff Lake. The club will select recipients based upon need, ability, and contributions to the community. This year one scholarship will be granted to a Park Ridge High School senior majoring in education, in memory of Dr. Robert Balentine, former superintendent of PRHS, who was a member of the Park Ridge Rotary Club.

The completed application and supporting documents should be submitted by April 15. Selected students will be notified in June. The club will notify schools with a recipient in advance of presenting the awards at senior assemblies. Applications are at the guidance department of Park Ridge and Pascack Hills high school and via parkridgerotaryclub.org. Contact Rotary Scholarship Chair Linda Hanlon at (973) 2444537 or lhanlon@kearnybank.com. Address: Linda Hanlon, 211 Cambridge Ave., Saddle Brook, N.J. 07663.

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

regarded by parents who have had children enrolled, and also by the community. The school is licensed by the state of New Jersey and is staffed by certified teachers and qualified

assistants. In accordance with the Internal Revenue Code, your donation is considered a charitable gift to Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center, a 501(c)(3) organization and is deemed 100% tax

deductible. EIN:221-607-279. Check back at zionlutheranschool.org in the coming weeks to purchase event tickets. For more information write ZionWWFundraising@gmail.com.

PARK RIDGE

Class of ’22 Night of Fun & Games

The Park Ridge High School OpGrad Class of 2022 is holding “A Night of Fun & Games” at Woodcliff Manor on Friday, April 1 from 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets for dinner and dancing can be purchased at $55 per person.

There will be a cash bar, 50/50 raffle, and tricky tray raffles (including designer handbags and great prizes) for purchase at the event. Tickets can also be purchased via Venmo @maryann-degeorge. Be sure to reference 4/1 Night of Fun &

Games. All proceeds will benefit Park Ridge High School Class of 2022, keeping kids safe while they have fun. If you have questions, contact Val at (201) 519-4955 or valerie@netrealm.com.

Knights, Spectrum score Big Game touchdown

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center invites you to save the date for its Tricky Tray and Live Auction Fundraiser, an inperson event on the evening of Saturday, May 21. Participants can enter to win a variety of big ticket items including a Yeti cooler, barbeque grill, kayak, 65-inch television set, a Cricut Explore Air2, themed gift bundles, collectible items, local gift cards, services, experiences, and more. Funds raised through this event represent a significant portion of the operating budget for the Zion Early Childhood Center education programs which focus on the spiritual, intellectual, physical, empotional, and social development of students age 2 1⁄ 2 to 4. Most recently, funds raised have been used to purchase critical supplies to ensure the safety of Zion students and staff throughout the pandemic: larger tables, a portable sink, personalized supplies for each child, and preschooler height handrails. Funds will continue to support the schoolʼs earliest learners as they grow spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially. Tax deductible donations are

WESTWOOD

Westwood Knights of Columbus Council #2188 and Spectrum for Living both came out as winners as the 2022 Super Bowl came to a close on Sunday, Feb. 6. Grand Knight Frank Mariconti told Pascack Press on Feb. 28 that over the years the Knights have supported Spectrum with a shake the can program, monthly canteens, and food for their walk. “I was absolutely delighted to fund Spectrum $6,000 from our Super Bowl Fund Drive. I tip my hat to all Spectrum employees for the good work they do,” Mariconti said. Thrilled to receive continuous support from the Westwood Knights of Columbus was Spectrum for Living president and CEO Christopher Perry. “Year after year, they find new and creative ways to support our mission through community dances, parties, and fundraising opportunities. This yearʼs Super Bowl Pool & Party allowed constituents a fun way to make an impact while supporting their communities – and football teams,” Perry said. About Spectrum for Living Founded in 1983, Spectrum

Left to right: Ray Polomski, treasurer, Knights of Columbus; Christopher Perry, president and CEO of Spectrum for Living; Joe Adou-Daoud, Deputy Grand Knight, Frank Mariconti, Grand Knight, and Spectrum For Living Vice President of Operations Steve Vahalla and Development Coordinator Stefanie Rendine. (Courtesy photo)

for Living, a New Jersey 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, helps adults with developmental disabilities attain their maximum potential by providing quality housing and clinical services in state-of-the-art facilities and in the homes of families

caring for a disabled loved one. To partner with Spectrum for Living through a monetary or inkind donation, write Director of Development Elizabeth Boyajian at eboyajian@spectrumforliving.org.

CALL OR LOG ON TODAY!

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Sc h ool News

Fun, fitness for the whole family through rec’s spring offerings

Registration for Westwood Recreation spring 2022 programs is underway. Residents can register starting Monday, March 7 at 9 a.m.; non-residents may register beginning March 14 at 9 a.m. for an additional $25 fee. The Spring 2022 Program Guide can be viewed at westwoodnj.gov/recreation. Registration is via Community Pass: https://register.communitypass.net/we stwood or in person at 55 Jefferson Ave.

This spring, Westwood Recreation hosts enrichment and sports classes for preschoolers including music, dance, art, soccer and T-ball in addition to a new Parent and Me class on Friday mornings with Colorful Warriors. Elementary and Middle School students can look forward to music, magic, dance, yoga & art, science and drama classes as well as tennis, golf, outdoor volleyball and Ultimate Frisbee. Adults can register for beginner or

WESTWOOD

Two Charity Golf Outing scholarships!

The Westwood Charity Golf Outing has been raising money for worthwhile recipients for the past 24 years. Fifteen years ago, the WCGO Scholarship Committee began giving its proceeds to the WCGO Scholarship Fund to assist Westwoodʼs future leaders. This year, the WCGO Scholarship Committee is offering two $1,500 scholarships to two Westwood resident senior students who are very talented, and the assistance for college would really help them and their families. The scholarshipwinning students may come from Westwood Regional High School or one of the private high schools in the area to which Westwood residents attend. To date, 32 recipients from

six high schools have won WCGO Scholarships. If you would like a scholarship application, you may find them in the Clerkʼs Office at the Westwood Municipal Center, in the Recreation Department at the Westwood Community Center, in the Westwood Library, or on the Borough of Westwood website. You also may send your request to westwoodcgo@gmail.com, or you can ask your guidance counselor for an electronic copy. If you have any other questions, you may write to us: WCGO Scholarship Committee, 37 Goodwin Terrace, Westwood, NJ 07675. The deadline for applications to be received is April 30, 2022,

EMERSON

COMMUNITY SCHOOL REOPENS

As a service to the community, the Board of Education sponsors an evening adult and continuing education program, the Emerson Community School. The Emerson Community School offers over 200 courses to 3,000-plus area residents each year. The school also sponsors camp and instructional programs each summer, where 500-plus area children participate in more than 30 specialty programs. The Emerson Community School will be offering more than 75 course selections to area residents in the upcoming Spring 2022 session. Offerings will include com-

puter classes, wellness and recreation courses, foreign languages, arts and crafts, cooking, music, and many special interest courses. The Community School recently sent out its brochure by mail to all of the surrounding towns. Registration is at emersonschools.org and then clicking the Department tab and the Community School tab. The complete brochure can be found on that site. Spread the word and learn something new. Interested readers may also call the coordinator of the Emerson Community School at (201) 262-5502.

intermediate tennis as well as outdoor yoga. Spring break mini-camps will run April 11–14. Kids can choose from TGAʼs morning tennis camp and afternoon golf camp or USA Sportsʼ half-day multisports camp. Residents and regular nonresident participants will notice a new format for the 2022 Spring Program Guide. Inside the

expanded brochure, available at westwoodnj.gov/recreation, is detailed information on the registration process, class locations, facilities and park rentals, local sports organizations, summer camp previews and more including special notices on preschool registration and the annual egg hunt. The Westwood Recreation

Department runs enrichment and sport programs for children, teens and adults of all ages. The department is proud to be able to bring new and innovative programs to residents and neighbors in the Pascack Valley area. For more information please email recreation@westwoodnj.gov. or call the Recreation Department at (201) 664-7882.

PASCACK VALLEY

Aux. Unit 153 sending three to Girls State

Park Ridge American Legion Auxiliary Unit #153 is proudly sponsoring three delegates to attend the 2022 Jersey Girls State Program: Nicole Ensmann and Karen Kirkorian of Pascack Hills High School, and Katie Cannon of Millburn High School. Jersey Girls State is held at Georgian Court College from June 19–23. A virtual opening ceremony is set for June 18. At Girls State, each girl, as she registers, becomes a citizen of an assigned city. The citizens set up city governments and elect officials. The city councils then enact ordinances to govern the cities. The city officials enforce the ordinances. Two cities constitute a county. The county governments are organized by the election of a Board of Freeholders, a Sheriff, etc. for each county.

The elected officers then proceed to function in all county matters, as provided by the Constitution and the laws of the State of New Jersey. The counties together become the state. Each girl is assigned to one of two parties — Federals or Nationals — so they may see how political parties function. They develop their own party platforms and discuss issues they choose. All of the elections are carENSMANN

KIRKORIAN

ried out according to the laws of New Jersey. Following the State Primary Election is the General Election, when the citizens elect CANNON Girls State Governor. From the Assembly and Senatorial districts they elect the members of the Girls State Assembly and Senate. An inaugural ceremony is held and the Girls State Governor-elect and other state officials are given oaths of office. The two branches of the legislature organize, author, and pass bills. The governor decides whether to sign the bills into law or veto them.

PASCACK VALLEY

Hillsdale, River Vale summer day camp

Hillsdale and River Vale residents, and non-resident children attending St. Johnʼs Academy, get ready for fun at Hillsdale and River Vale Summer Day Camp at George White Middle School, 120 Magnolia Ave., Hillsdale. • New: Camp Little Hawks, kindergarten; • Camp Pascack, grades 1–4; • Camp Adventure, grades 5–6;

7–9.

• Field Trip Camp, grades

• Grades are based on September 2022. • When: Monday, June 27–Friday, July 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Before care is available 8 to 9 a.m. After care is available 3 to 6 p.m. • Registration runs April 15–May 7. Late registration runs May 8–June 10.

Register at https://register.communitypass.net. When Camp Pascack and Camp Little Hawks are at George White School,children will participate in a structured schedule of specialist-run classes taught by certified teachers/instructors and/or long-employed collegeaged staff. For more information, visit hillsdalenj.org.

WESTWOOD

Westwood rec preschool registration

Registration for the Westwood Recreation Department Preschool begins Tuesday, April 5 at 9 a.m. for Westwood residents and at 11 a.m. for non-residents at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. The three-day-a-week halfday programs for children 3–5 are designed to foster kindergarten readiness by creating developmentally appropriate learning opportunities in a nurturing setting. Interested parents are encouraged to register on April 5. Class size is limited to 24 for the preK–4 morning class and 20 for the pre-K–3 afternoon class. Led by teacher/director Natalie Boes, Westwood Recreation Preschool is licensed by the State

of New Jersey and follows state curriculum guidelines. Classroom activities prepare students for academic and social success by assisting in the development of self-help skills, gross and fine motor skills, listening skills as well as providing a strong foundation in literacy, math, social studies and science. Art, music, seasonal activities and free-play round out the program offerings. The Westwood Recreation Preschool program is open to children 3–5 as of Oct. 1, 2022. Proof of residency and birth certificates are required for registration. All children are required to be pottytrained before entering the program. Annual tuition is $2,000 for

kids 4–5 who attend Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Annual tuition is $1,700 for kids aged 3 who attend Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. For convenience, annual tuition is payable in four installments: April 5 (time of registration), Sept. 7, Jan. 2, and Feb. 6. The 2022–2023 school year begins Wednesday, Sept. 7. For registration information and forms, see the Preschool section of the Recreation Page at westwoodnj.gov or call (201) 664-7882. For more information, write , Recreation Director Gary Buchheister at gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov.

Sc h ool News

The Academy of the Holy Angels welcomed exceptional world language scholars to the French, Italian, Latin, and Spanish national honor societies during International Week, the first week in March. Samira Mady, chair of the AHA World Language Department, led the multi-part induction ceremony and the presentation of the Jennifer Moran World Languages Excellence & Leadership Award. This award, which is named for a former AHA principal, was presented to Alina Keshishian and Alexa Watson of the Sociétée Honoraire de Français, Chloe Cozzi (Ibrahim) of the Società Onoraria Italica, Grace Sawyer of the Societatis Latinae Honoris, and Nicolette Otero of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica. Each will receive $100. Mady, Frank Hunter, Laura Kraytem, and Andréa Palacio introduced the inductees and led the pledges. The oaths state how languages link people from different areas of the world. Principal Jean Miller extended her congratulations, speaking a few words in Latin, French, Spanish, and Italian. She emphasized the value of working to communicate with others. “Donʼt be deterred by not sounding authentic or perfect,” Miller said, noting that people appreciate those who make the effort. New members of the Sociétée Honoraire de Français are Sharanya

Jennifer Moran Award winners Alina Keshishian, Chloe Cozzi (Ibrahim), Alexa Watson, Grace Sawyer, and Nicolette Otero. (Photo via Jennifer Crusco)

Agarwal of West New York; Areni Chaglasian of Upper Saddle River; Stephanie Chan of Closter; Mia Chang of Valley Cottage, N.Y.; Sophia Chounoune and Celeste Harper of Englewood; Hyerin “Ella” Eom of Palisades Park; Alexa Ferrara and Emily Kim of Englewood Cliffs; Erin Ha and Maggie Yu of Tenafly; Isabella Kim and Speridoula Pavlatos of Cresskill; Katherine Langan of Glen Rock; Alice Lee of Haworth; Olivia Leys of Tappan, N.Y.; Hollie Melia of Norwood; Olivia Papp of Hawthorne; Lauren Tong of Old Tap-

pan; and Rafaelle Zorea of Hoboken. This societyʼs officers are presidents Alina Keshishian of Englewood Cliffs and Alexa Watson of Montvale, Vice President Holly Foothorap of West Nyack, N.Y., and Co-secretaries Brooke Hess of Cedar Grove and Elizabeth Kim of Old Tappan. Società Onoraria Italica inductees include Katelyn Lee of Cresskill, Anissa Lena of Moonachie, Kristina Migliaccio of Franklin Lakes, Alexandra Nicholas of Emerson, Madeline Poblete of Tenafly, Natalia Ruiz of Fairview, Lana Serpi-

co of Englewood, Emma Spadora of Ridgewood, and Sydney Uddo of Englewood Cliffs. Officers of the Società Onoraria Italica include President Chloe Cozzi (Ibrahim) and Vice President Kara Battaglia, both of whom reside in Blauvelt, N.Y. Daniela Marinuzzi of Englewood Cliffs is the societyʼs secretary. Ten Angels entered the Societatis Latinae Honoris. Inductees include Kaitlyn Brady and Noelle Wacker of Emerson, Giovanna Corbisiero of Franklin Lakes, Dominique Rose Dela Gente and Anna Jang of Tenafly, Danielle Dobres and Kathryn Fragola of Bergenfield, Beatrice Gee of Englewood, Sydney Ponti of Secaucus, and Emily Sapka of North Haledon. Officers include presidents Isabella Dail of Saddle River and Grace Sawyer of Weehawken, Vice President Giselle Acosta of Fort Lee, and Finance Secretary Kathleen Stewart of North Bergen. Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica accepted new members, including Sophia Carroll of Woodcliff Lake; Isabella Novo and Valerie Rey of River Vale; Sidney Chung, Elena

Fiorentinos, Katerina Karlis, Elise Kim, Hailey Schacht, and Ava Taylor of Cresskill; Celeste Fernandez and Erin Pav of Westwood; Nora Giannantonio of Emerson; Annabelle Hur and Serin Hwang of Norwood; Alexis Jacob of Tappan, N.Y.; Vanessa Medina of Nanuet, N.Y.; Rachel Mina of Ridgefield Park; Zuleima Noriega of Haledon; Ella Oaten and Xinyue “Cindy” Yang of Tenafly; Shivani Sahu of Paramus; Karina Small of River Edge; Julia Swearer of Upper Montclair; Fiona Sykes, Amanda Tomasella, and Lauren Tomasella of Oradell; Elise Tao of Upper Saddle River; Mia Tinoco of Ridgefield; Alexandra Valdez of Oakland; Nicole Yakubov of Teaneck, and Cecilia Yun of Closter. AHAʼs chapter is led by President Nicolette Otero of Cliffside Park, Vice President Zeida BenFredj Lopez of Bergenfield, Secretary Olivia Syby of Dumont, and Treasurer Hannah Janiec of East Rutherford. Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼ school in Bergen County. While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this prestigious school serves young women from many backgrounds. Visit holyangels.org.

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

AHA world language standouts enter national honor societies

DEMAREST

22 PASCACK VALLEY

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Students: Racial justice video project seeks submissions

The Community Chest of Eastern Bergen Countyʼs Racial Justice Liberty Project announces a call for high school students, residing in or attend school in Bergen County, to submit a one to two minute video about the theme “"A Gallery of Stories of Your Racial Discovery.” Students are invited to share their personal reflections about how they came to understand their own racial, ethnic, or cultural identity and how it currently affects them. The finished piece will reflect a range of perspectives on this topic in various art forms. The project is creating a series of videos composed of young peopleʼs contributions about their personal stories. The projectʼs goal is to reach a wide audience to promote understanding about the range of young peopleʼs experiences encountered throughout their lives and the impact on teens. Art Forms Submissions may include any of the following: • Short films; • Poetry; • Original music performed by the submitter, with all music styles accepted; and • Photographs of a single

print or digital image. All submissions should not include any music with royalties. If actors are used in a film, one must include the creator of the submission. Malaika Menezes and the members of the Video Production Club at Dwight Morrow High School will produce the completed video, with various art pieces incorporated.

Entry Requirements Applicants must be high school students residing in or attending high school in Bergen County, New Jersey. Individuals or groups of students may submit an application. The following information must be included with all applications: name of student(s), school and grade(s), town(s) of resi-

Announcements?

dence, email address(es), and telephone or cell phone number(s).

Town pool opens May 28 – register now

Rich Moss of the Park Ridge Municipal Pool Commission says the pool is expected to open for the season on Saturday, May 28, most likely under safety guidelines in place for 2021). “In 2020 and 2021, the pool offered an outdoor respite for the Park Ridge community and prior member non-Park Ridge residents. We received great feedback on the value the pool offered the community,” Moss told Pascack Press. He said pool memberships will be open to all Park Ridge residents, previous-year pool members, and non-resident employees of Park Ridge Borough and the Board of Education. A limited number of memberships will be offered to non-residents

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so ensure you get your registrations in early once they are available. New non-residents must be sponsored by a Park Ridge resident or prior pool member. 2022 membership rates will remain as they were in 2021: • Resident family: $410 • Resident single: $300 • Resident seniors: Free • Non-resident family: $510 • Non-resident single: $360 • Non-resident senior: $75/$100 per couple (both must be 65 or older). Registration is available from Feb.15 at parkridgeboro.com/residents/pool (click on Pool Information Packet). Note registration due dates to avoid a $35 late fee. Paper pool registration forms can

be picked up at the pool office on weekends, from May 7, from noon to 3 p.m. The Park Ridge Municipal Pool, at 123 Colony Ave., provides swim lessons and numerous activities, including competitive swim and dive teams, arts and crafts, storytime, Red Cross lifeguard training, adult nights and other special events as posted throughout the summer. Moss said, “As statewide safety protocols are released, we will evaluate our ability to continue these services.” For more information on membership fun at the Park Ridge Municipal Pool visit parkridgeboro.com/residents/pool or write pool@parkridgeboro.com.

Borough’s former grant writer sues over fees

EMERSON

WE BUY YOUR OLD & NEW:

Finalist Selection and Notification The final selections will be made by April 30, 2022. Notifications will be made by email. Submissions not selected in this round may be considered for a future video. Participation will be considered a form of community service. All participants will receive a Certificate of Completion to use in their college application packet. For more information about The Community Chest of Eastern Bergen County, call (201) 5687474.

PARK RIDGE

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

oz.

Applications must be submitted by March 31, 2022 to Dr. Shelly Wimpfheimer, Executive Director of The Community Chest of Eastern Bergen County, at shelly@communitychestofenglewood.org. The parents or the guardians of the applicant's work selected for inclusion in the final video will be required to complete and sign a permission slip authorizing the use of the materials submitted. Participants whose submission is selected may be asked to participate in an interview. This participation is not mandatory.

A former grant writing consultant hired in 2016 and again in 2017 on a six-month contract has filed a lawsuit against Emerson to recoup a percentage of nearly $1 million in grants that the borough was awarded following the consultantʼs terms of service. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of Capital Alternatives Corporation, Oradell, complains over breach of contract; breach of the Covenant of Good Faith and Fair Dealing; and unjust enrichment. The court case has been assigned to Superior Court Judge Robert M. Vinci. The boroughʼs attorney, John McCann, retained by the borough to negotiate with the former consultant, claims that both grants were awarded in years following the consultantʼs two contracts and not during its contracted periods of employment. He said both claims were without merit as both grant writing contract periods had expired. McCann said he would likely

file a motion to dismiss the claims in Superior Court. On March 15, the Borough Council approved a resolution that hired McCann to undertake negotiations with Capital Alternatives Corporation over its lawsuit. Based on fee percentages

Group LLC, Hackensack, the lawsuit seeks fees on two grants — one a federal transportation grant for $780,000 and one a state transportation grant for $145,000 for the Vivian Avenue Drainage Project — that amounted to a total of $925,000 for Emerson. According to the suit, the $780,000 federal Department of Transportation (TAP) Transportation Alternatives Program grant awarded in 2018 was similar to a grant prepared by the consultant in 2016 that was not funded by the federal agency. When the borough reapplied in 2018 using parts of the original grant appliEmerson Borough Hall cation, they were awarded a grant. That original claimed in the lawsuit that state application (non-funded) was 10% on the first $500,000 of grant claimed to be for Parts II and III of funds awarded and 8% of any the Emerson Downtown Redevelamount that exceeds $500,000, it opment Project. appears the consultant believes it We asked how those funds is owed approximately $86,900 in were used but did not hear back by fees that were not reimbursed. press time. (We estimated the amount The second grant — also based on the consultantʼs stated received in 2018 — was for fees although no total amount is $145,000 and was received the specified in the lawsuit.) year following a short-term hiring Filed in Superior Court in of the grant consultant in 2017. mid-January by Shafron Law

The time is now to pre-register for Alumni in Recoveryʼs “A Walk to Remember,” set for April 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Westvale Park, 235 Harrington Ave., Westwood. The event supports addiction awareness and recovery. Rain date is May 1. Participation is $20 by preregistration, or $25 after Feb. 22. The event includes remarks by prominent community leaders and a tribute to first responders led by the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office. It will feature food and interactive displays. Attendees may stroll at their leisure; the walk isnʼt timed. Registration will continue through April 24. Onsite registration is welcome and encouraged.

No one will be turned away for lack of admission fees. Sponsorships are available. Corporate sponsor is Bergen New Bridge Medical Center.

About Alumni in Recovery Alumni in Recovery, a nonprofit organization of dedicated young adults who are now living in recovery and abstinent from all drugs and alcohol, provides a safe

PARK RIDGE

School board meetings, 2022–2023

The Park Ridge Board of Education announces its 2022 board meeting schedule, January 2022 to 2023, as Mondays at 7 p.m. in the Little Theater of the Park Ridge High School, 2 Park Ave. Executive session may be held on the day of all scheduled meetings: March 21, April 18, May 16, June 20, Aug. 29, Sept. 19, Oct. 17, Nov. 21, and Dec. 19, and Jan. 4,

2023 (reorganization meeting). The Park Ridge School District Board of Education is composed of seven board members who are elected by constituents within the municipality and who dedicate their time and energy to serving the school community. For more information, visit parkridgeschools.org or write prboe@parkridge.k12.nj.us.

HILLSDALE

MAKERS DAY AT HILLSDALE LIBRARY MARCH 26

The Hillsdale Free Public Library seeks local artists, crafters, makers, and inventors for a oneday exhibition of creativity and craft. Consider entering something in this community showcase, NJ Makers Day at Hillsdale Library, March 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those who knit, crochet, sew, build, join, turn, paint, sculpt, bake, code, solder, or otherwise invent are encouraged to submit an entry

form by March 20. Download and print the entry from from the library website: hfpl.org. Visit the library for demonstrations and giveaways. Make a button on the button machine. Watch the laser cutter in action. Meet your creative neighbors. Find inspiration. — Via David J. Franz, director Hillsdale Free Public Library 509 Hillsdale Ave.

PASCACK VALLEY

‘GOT JESUS? JOIN US AT ALPHA’ Explore a unique life-changing course with us! Jesus, truth or lie? What is the meaning of life? What is a relationship with God? Come join us at Alpha! Alpha is an 11 week journey discussing the meaning of life from a Christian perspective. It is a place to have conversation without judgment, ask questions, and make lasting friendships. All adults are welcome to come, express their opinions and share thoughts about the topic of the night. Topics include but aren’t limited to: Is there more to life than this? Who is Jesus? How can I have faith? We chat over refreshments, watch an inspirational video, then discuss the video in small groups. We meet on Tuesdays at 7–8:30 p.m from March 15 at Bethany Community Center, 605 Pascack Road, Township of Washington. Email: BethanyCCAlpha@gmail.com. Registration: www.bit.ly/alphabcc.

and reliable program to heighten awareness, hope, and resources for our local communities. It says, “We aim to end the stigma of the disease of addiction by sharing our stories with middle and high school students, parents and communities. As AinR volunteers, we speak openly about our struggles with addiction and how we overcame them.” AinR says, “Our recovery

members are abstinent from all mind-altering drugs, including alcohol. They are responsible, local young adults living in the community, rebuilding their lives and actively living a life of recovery.” Its Parent Program helps change perceptions. “Our town and school based events for parents/adults is intended to help them navigate the addiction land-

scape. These events typically consist of two AinR members and a bereaved parent sharing their personal stories of loss. These events bring together real life voices to change the perception of substance abuse and addiction.” And the organization says parents speak from their hearts. “As an act of love and caring, our volunteers do not expect anything other than the gratitude that comes from helping others. It is their hope that Alumni in Recovery helps others better understand this deadly disease — all with the desire to help save lives.” For more information and to register for the walk, visit alumniinrecovery.org. — Staff report

MONTVALE

Fitness challenge through June 30

Mayor Michael Ghassali has challenged residents to join together to help shed 1,000 total pounds, assisted by gym owners, trainers, and Zumba dancers and instructors. More than 150 people have taken him up on it so far. He says this yearʼs mayorʼs fitness challenge, March 1 – June 30, will be mutually beneficial for local businesses and residents to get into better health overall. Saying “Eat well, move well, relax well, and manage well,” the challenge webpage invites you to “Join our journey to improving our Montvale communityʼs health and wellness, while exercising,

meeting and making new friends.” It adds, “This new, exciting communitybased program is led by professional trainers GHASSALI and doctors, and will help us overcome the stress and anxiety of the pandemic while achieving our own individual goals.” The challenge is tailored to meet the needs of the participants, so mark your interests on the registration page, via montvale.org. Separately, the borough has

an active year-round community rec program, administered by a Special Events Committee and director. The committee offers a program of events, the highlight of which is an annual Day in the Park celebration held in September. Recreational programs including pickleball, golf, tennis, volleyball, basketball, yoga and tai chi, among others, are offered year round to kids and adults. The borough has four parks on 32 acres. Fcilities include two playgrounds along with courts and fields that allow for tennis, basketball, baseball, football, roller hockey, pickleball, softball, and soccer.

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

The Park Ridge Municipal Pool Enjoy swim lessons and numerous activities, including competitive swim and dive teams throughout the pool season.

We Welcome Non Residents! Pool registration will be conducted electronically this year using Community Pass. Visit our website at www.parkridgeboro.com for registration details. A limited number of registration packets will be available at the pool located at 123 Colony Avenue weekends beginning on May 7 from noon until 3PM.

Rates Remain The Same As 2019 Resident Family ........................$410 Resident Single..........................$300 Resident Seniors........................FREE Non-Resident Family ................$510

Non-Resident Single......................$360 Non-Resident Senior Single ..........$75 Non-Resident Senior Couple ........$100 (both must be 65 or older living in the same residence)

New Non-Residents must be sponsored by a Park Ridge Resident or a registered Park Ridge Pool Member. These rates are valid until May 27. Afterwards, a $35 late fee will be applied for each category.

Visit our website at www.parkridgeboro.com for further details. Any questions or concerns, please contact Tom Scheulen at pool@parkridgeboro.com

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide ADVERTISER CONTENT

DR. KAPLAN: Learn to eliminate stressors from your life

Stress is one of the leading causes of abnormal brain health and is therefore nicknamed the silent killer. A lot of people do not realize DR. ERIC KAPLAN, many of their KAPLAN BRAIN & symptoms may BODY be caused by, or aggravated by stress. They may go to a bunch of doctors trying to discover where their symptoms are coming from, but do not get answers. They get bloodwork, X-rays, urinalysis, MRIs and ultrasounds, only to find out that all the tests are negative. Obviously it is good that the tests are negative, but it also might be frustrating because they know they do not feel well physically, but there are no abnormal test findings. Sometimes it is possible that the environment may be influencing their health more than they realize. For example, a big environ-

mental influence that has a huge impact on health is the intake of water. Dehydration can cause headaches, menstrual cramps, dry skin, memory problems, digestive issues, and nighttime muscle cramps just to name a few. I n addition to lack of sufficient water, lack of sleep can cause many other problems such as anxiety, fatigue, issues with focus or concentration, high blood pressure, low sex drive, obesity, or depression. Another reason people may have an increase in symptoms in addition to lack of sleep or lack of water is lack of food, or if they have not eaten for a long time. This may lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, brain fog, fast heart beat, visual problems, irritability, lack of coordination, confusion, or sweating. If you are hypoglycemic, be sure you always have a snack on you and do not go more than 2-3 hours without eating something. Moreover, if you have eaten inflammatory foods such as dairy, gluten, corn, soy, coffee, alcohol, sugar, or sugar replacements, you might get joint pain, balance prob-

lems, muscles weakness, digestive problems, fatigue, skin problems, hormonal issues, heart problems, dry eyes, and brain issues. However, even though lack of sleep, dehydration, or poor eating habits can cause lots of problems, the most common reason for an increase in symptoms is stress, therefore it is imperative that you avoid all stresses if you would like to function better, feel better, and live better. There are three main stresses that must be avoided: Physical stress, emotional stress, biochemical stress. Physical stress would be sitting at the computer all day and typing on the keyboard or scrolling through your phone. Examples of emotional stress would be if you are unsatisfied at work, have financial issues, are in a bad relationship, or do not like your current living situation. Biochemical stresses are toxins in our environment like the pesticides in food, the lead in the pipes, the fluoride in toothpaste or the aluminum in deodorant. In regard to physical stress, we

DEMAREST

AHA spring open house May 17

Behind every successful Angel is her growth mindset education. Plan to attend the Academy of the Holy Angelsʼ Spring Open House on Tuesday, May 17, and discover how this prestigious all-girls school empowers young women through a nationally acclaimed STREAM education. Angels learn to lead in an uplifting atmosphere, where they are encouraged to surmount temporary obstacles, and encounter success throughout their lives. So far, the Class of 2022 has

gained early admission and millions of dollarsʼ worth of scholarships to renowned colleges and universities that include Princeton and Yale. Be part of AHAʼs 142year success story. Register for Spring Open House at holyangels.org/admissions/visit-aha beginning May 1. Spring Open House will begin at 5 p.m. at the Academyʼs campus at 315 Hillside Ave. in Demarest. Friendly, knowledgeable Angel Ambassadors will lead tours and answer questions. The

administration, faculty, and staff will cover AHAʼs mission and culture, curriculum, co-curricular and extracurricular offerings, and more. The admissions team will discuss the application process, and scholarship and financial aid opportunities. Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼ school in Bergen County. 315 Hillside Ave., Demarest. Call (201) 768.7822 and visit holyangels.org.

must get the body moving. If you are sitting at the computer all day, make sure you do what I call the “20 rule.” Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to walk 20 feet and look 20 feet away and then go back to the computer. You can also do 20 seconds of jumping jacks, 20 push-ups, 20 situps, 20 crunches, 20 squats, 20 lunges, 20 burpees, a 20 second sprint, 20 pull-ups, 20 seconds of jump rope, 20 seconds of backwards shoulder rolls, or do 20 seconds of shadow boxing. Another important tip to consider is that you should never cause more physical stress on one side of the body versus the other side of the body. If you are playing golf and are always twisting in one direction, practice swinging the other way so you donʼt break down one side quicker than the other side. Another important aspect of reducing physical stress is going for walks every day; preferably at sunrise and sunset, to help set your circadian rhythms which will contribute to better sleep. Additionally, start taking weekly fitness classes or playing sports that are written into your schedule, keeps you active and also keeps you more social. Use exercise to bond with your spouse, your children, and your friends. Perform these activities outside so you also get oxygen from the trees and vitamin D from the sunlight. It is recommended that you try exercises that make you strategize like tennis or take a dance class where you have to memorize all of the different steps. Start being the one in the family that takes the dog out for a walk or gets up to help a family member. Park your car in the parking spot furthest away from the entrance when you are running errands so you have to walk more, and to take the steps instead of the elevator or the escalator to increase your daily activity. Always give yourself a reason to move the body more often. If you are at a party and someone wants a glass of water, you can be the person that gets up and goes to the kitchen; therefore you get to move your body more, you did a good deed for someone else, and additionally, that will encourage other people to do good deeds, as well. Although physical stress is a really big problem, emotional stress is even more significant than physical stress. Sometimes you might have to make major life changes to avoid emotional stress. Sometimes you might have to

quit a job to reduce emotional stress. There might be a job that pays well, but the hours stink, your boss is mean and you donʼt get along with your coworkers. The stress is not worth the money and money is insignificant if you do not have your health. If you want to reduce your emotional stress, sometimes, you might have to get out of a bad relationship. Coming home to a person you do not want to be with can cause so much stress that it might manifest into illness. The third stress is biochemical stress. This includes the chemicals we are exposed to such as deodorant, candles, laundry detergent, foods preserved in bags, plastic containers, cans, or boxes, aerosol sprays, suntan lotions, perfumes, Febreze, Lysol, colognes, Clorox wipes, Glade plug-ins, non-organic fruits and vegetables, bleaches, teflon pans, many toothpastes, plastic storage containers, make-up, car air fresheners, cleaning products, plastic water bottles, and most beauty products. These should be removed from your house because they are toxic to the environment, they are toxic to inhale, they are toxic on your skin, and they are toxic to your brain. There are healthy alternatives for most of these chemicals, such as baking soda, lemon, vinegar, zinc oxide, coconut oil, tea tree oil, and you can use glass containers, stainless steel cookware, and essential oil diffusers to reduce chemical exposure. Another biochemical stress is all the problems with radiation or EMF from the electronics such as cell phones, computers, iPads, and microwaves. Do not keep your phone on and stored in your front pocket or back pocket, and do not keep it close to your heart either. Sometimes you cannot avoid the radiation, but whatever you can control, keep it to a minimum.

Great discount! Call now! To find out more about Dr. Kaplan's holistic and integrative services contact us at 201-2612150 or visit our website www.kaplandc.com. If you are interested in getting a non-invasive brain mapping test called a qEEG with neurofeedback, to determine how stress is affecting your brainwaves, please call or text 646-2216738 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com and mention this article. This test is normally $400, but if you call by March 31 you can receive the brain mapping for $21 so contact us today!

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

Calling all artists: Thrive at Montvale Mural Contest

What do you think of when you hear the words “senior living community”? Your first thought might be “old folksʼ home” – right? We get it. Well, we are here to expand Montvaleʼs view of the possibilities in senior living. We are building a place where older adults come to live and thrive every day: where the possibilities are endless, where older adults rule the roost, and where life only gets better as you age. Just inside the front doors of Thrive at Montvale you will find Convivium Coffee Company (CCC), a one-of-a-kind specialty coffee experience that will have carefully crafted brews served by baristas with a passion for service and creating meaningful, intergenerational connections. Convivium Coffee Company has two corresponding brick walls that will act as a canvas for a local artist(s) to permanently show off their talent with two complimentary murals that will inspire and unite the local community. Contest overview This project is for artist exposure, community involvement, contribution to Thrive at Montvale, and for all to enjoy.

ously painted a mural? Have you painted on brick before?

Design details • Two brick walls approximately 9ʼ6” h. x 8ʼ w. each. • Artist(s) will paint their design directly on the brick walls. The designs should be inspired by the town of Montvale. • We are looking for familyfriendly, inspirational, and Instagram worthy designs.

WESTWOOD

Elks golden ticket raffle aims at $10,000

The Westwood Elks invite you to their golden ticket raffle on Sunday, March 27 at 1 p.m. at Westwood Elks Lodge 1562. Ticketholders will be able to enjoy a buffet and refreshments. Two hundred tickets are available at a $100 donation. If all 200 tickets are sold, $10,000 will go to the winner. Organizers say this is an elimination draw-down from start to finish. Three $150 consolation prizes will be pulled, leading up to the big winner. The last ticket pulled will be winner — or the last two owners may agree to split the grand prize. You can buy as an individ-

ual, split with a friend, or go in on a group ticket. Depending on availability, last-minute tickets will be sold on the day of the event from 11:30 a.m. to the start of the drawing. See ticket for details and license number. This is a great opportunity to do a lot of good. Proceeds benefit Elks charites, including children and adults with special needs, our veterans, and vital drug awareness programs. For more information and to purchase tickets, call Carl Williams at (201) 446-6047 or the Westwood Elks Lodge at (201) 666-1562.

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Eligibility • All Bergen County artists are welcome to enter the contest!

Artist submission details • All submissions must be original art and the artist(s) must have the capacity to paint the design themselves. • Artists are welcome to submit a single design for one brick wall, a design that encompasses both brick walls, or a design for

Left: Put your artistic talents to the test and try for a $500 prize. Above: Thrive Senior Living, Montvale. Both photos via Thrive Senior Living. each brick wall. • Artists can be individuals or a group with a designated lead. The following must be included in the submission: • A concept sketch must be provided of the mural design(s) in color or black and white if applicable. • A statement providing the story behind the mural and how it reflects the town of Montvale. • Production schedule and materials needed. • Portfolio of previous work if applicable. Artist bio or resume (for all participants). • Include answers to the following questions: Have you previ-

Winnerʼs selection process • A group of local judges will select the final winner(s). • The final winner(s) will be announced on April 15, 2022 via the Thrive at Montvale website and Facebook page. • Painting of the mural is anticipated to start in May 2022.

Award $500 will be awarded to winner(s). In the event of multiple winners, the $500 will be split among all winners. Thrive Senior Living will reimburse for all paint supplies. For more information, write mural@ThriveAtMontvale.com. The due date for submissions is March 31. Submissions are accepted only via email at Mural@ThriveAtMontvale.com. Winner(s) and painting will be included in various marketing efforts, including press releases and social media photography and videos. Thrive at Montvale, 295 W. Grand Ave. (201) 201-8815. Hello@ThriveAtMontvale.com. Thrivesl.com/Montvale. — Via contest announcement

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

MONTVALE

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Managing your investments during difficult times

The combination of a pandemic, economic difficulties, political unrest, and natural disasters have all presented their ERIC KOHLMEIER respective challenges. Investors may be wondering what effect these events could have on their investments. Which is why itʼs helpful for investors to focus on three fundamental actions that could help them work toward meeting their investment goals - know yourself,

build a plan, and keep an eye on the long term.

Know yourself When stocks drop by 20% or more, some investors might ignore the drop, others might feel the urge to sell, while still others might see it as a good time to buy. This range of reactions illustrates different levels of risk tolerance, or how sensitive investors are to market volatility. Risk tolerance varies from one investor to another, and no level of tolerance is considered the “right” level thereʼs only the right risk tolerance for each investor.

Talking with financial advisors or completing online questionnaires can help investors determine their risk tolerance. While understanding your risk tolerance is essential, it should not be considered in isolation. Risk tolerance, goals, and time horizon all play a role in setting an investment plan. Investing more aggressively may yield more rewards but the length of time available for investing also plays a part. A longer time horizon could give investors the potential for compound growth. And setting specific goals can help to determine how much an

investor should accumulate to support their goals.

Build a plan Dwight D. Eisenhower may have said it best - “Plans are worthless, but planning is everything.” Even though a plan may need to be modified to adapt to changes, the very process of setting a plan will help investors to discover and focus on their most important investment goals. For a plan to be useful, itʼs important for investors to clearly detail which goals they are trying to achieve. Some of an investorʼs goals will be shorter term, such as building a rainy day fund.

Investment and Insurance Products are: • Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency • Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate • Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested Intermediate-term goals might include buying a house or paying for a childʼs education. Longer-term goals might include planning for retirement and potentially leaving a legacy for charities or family. Investor assets can then be matched to those various goals. For example, investors might own short-term bonds to meet a nearterm expense, and a mixture of stocks and longer-term bonds to

meet needs that are further in the future. The investorʼs risk tolerance will help determine the mix of more volatile assets — such as stocks — to less volatile assets such as bonds. Keep an eye on the long term Once a plan is in place, itʼs important to maintain it over the long term. This process includes regularly rebalancing the portfolio if allocations move too far away from targets, a task that in many cases can be automated. Maintenance also includes revisiting plans as investor goals or situations change. A plan is meant to be a living document. While market drops can be troublesome, unpredictable economic events have presented challenges in the past. With resilience and creativity, Americaʼs businesses and households have managed to overcome them. While there are no guarantees that past performance will repeat itself, history has shown us that investors who reach their goals are often those who stick to their investment plans and take a long-term view of the markets. This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director Investments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.

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PASCACK VALLEY

Red Cross honors Garden State heroes in March celebration iting redcross.org/NJ to become a volunteer, make an appointment to donate blood or take a class in lifesaving skills, such as first aid and CPR. On March 23, you can also join the annual Red Cross Giving Day campaign by donating at redcross.org/givingday to help provide shelter, food, relief items, emotional support and other assistance for people affected by disasters big and small. The Red Cross blood supply remains incredibly vulnerable — especially as doctors begin to resume elective surgeries previously delayed by omicron. Itʼs critical that individuals schedule a blood or platelet donation immediately to help ensure patients get the care they need as soon as possible. To make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1800-RED CROSS or download the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

EMERSON

Synagogue offers free membership

Congregation Bʼnai Israel, an innovative, conservative Jewish synagogue, is welcoming prospective new members with a free trial membership now through June 30. By taking advantage of the trial membership, families with young children can introduce them to a synagogue, Jewish culture, traditions and prayer. Families can participate in traditional services as well as services geared specifically for children. During the free membership period, children can “audit” the Hebrew School, where the dedicated Hebrew School teachers make learning a fun and interesting experience. Congregation Bʼnai Israel is comprised of 170 families from the Pascack Valley, Northern Valley, Oradell, Paramus, Dumont, Haworth and Closter. Regardless of age, it is a great place to meet other Jewish families who enjoy celebrating their

religious roots. For individuals and families without children, Congregation Bʼnai Israel is a great place to take advantage of Shabbat and Sunday morning services, book and movie discussions, adult education, social events, magic shows and holiday celebrations. The musically themed Shabbats are always a congregation pleaser. Rabbi Debra Orenstein and Cantor Lenny Mandel, provide engaging spiritual and meaningful leadership that stimulates interaction and contemplation on numerous religious, social and timely subjects. To take advantage of the free six-month trial membership offer, or to arrange a visit, contact Congregation Bʼnai Israelʼs membership ambassadors at membership@bisrael.com or call the temple office at (201) 2652272. The synagogue is at 53 Palisade Ave.

All those who come to give March 1–31 will receive a $10 egift card, thanks to Fanatics — and theyʼll automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to the 2022 MLB All-Star Game in Los Angeles (terms apply).

The American Red Cross provides programs and services to a population of 8.8 million in New Jersey. The Red Cross trains and mobilizes more than 4,200 volunteers who support the delivery of services throughout the state. In New Jersey last year, the

Red Cross responded to 1,125 local disasters, mostly home fires, helping 2,027 displaced families; collected more than 90,705 units of blood through blood drives and Red Cross Blood Donation Centers; provided more than 6,502 military family case services with emergency messages, helping families find assistance and/or get counseling and referrals; and trained 77,010 people with life-saving skills in preparedness, CPR, AED use, first aid and aquatics. For more information, please visit redcross.org/NJ and follow on Twitter @NJRedCross.org.

PASCACK VALLEY

Friends of the WW Library Scholarship

Are you or is someone you know enrolled in a graduate library school in an ALA accredited program? If so, consider applying for a Friends of the Westwood Library scholarship honoring Shy Touba, a beloved member of the Friends who passed away last year. A $3,000 scholarship will be awarded to assist with tuition and course fees. According to Friends president Liz Bellamy, an ongoing mission of the Friends of the Westwood Library — and the cause championed by Shy Touba — is supporting future librarians through this annual scholarship. Although preference is given to applicants from Westwood, the scholarship award is also open to any student enrolled in an accredited master of library science (MLS) program who resides in Montvale, Park Ridge, Woodcliff Lake, Hillsdale, River Vale, Washington Township, Oradell,

Old Tappan and Emerson, or a community within the Bergen County Cooperative Library System. The application form can be downloaded from westwoodpubliclibrary.org/friends-scholarship.html and must be accompanied by: • Transcript of current courses and grades. Applicant must have completed a minimum of 12 credits from an accredited program at time of submission. • Transcript of completed courses and grades and current course(s). • Personal statement of educational and library career goals. • Two letters of recommendation. • Proof of residency in Westwood or any of the eligible towns. Applications and additional materials may be mailed or delivered to Westwood Public Library. Address the envelope to: Friends Scholarship Committee, Westwood Public Library, 49 Park

Avenue, Westwood, NJ 07675. The deadline for submission is April 1, 2022. The applicant must maintain a B average. Payment of award will be made at completion of the enrolled course(s). The president of the Friends and the scholarship committee will review applications of the most promising applicants. Finalists for the award will be interviewed. Announcement of the scholarship winner and presentation of the award will be held at the May meeting of the Friends of the Westwood Library. The Friends of the Westwood Library is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization formed to actively support the library through advocating, fundraising and volunteering. The Friends of the Westwood Public Library welcome all newcomers to the organization.

Club News?

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Can not be combined with other offers. Expires 4/30/22.

New clients only. Can not be combined with other offers. Expires 4/30/22.

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

In March, the American Red Cross New Jersey Region is honoring the people who make its mission possible every day during its annual Red Cross Month celebration — a national tradition started nearly 80 years ago when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first national Red Cross Month proclamation recognizing those who give back through the American Red Cross. Each U.S. president has issued a proclamation ever since. “The Red Cross is powered by volunteers in the community who give of their time, talents and compassion to help others in need every day,” said Rosie Taravella, CEO, American Red Cross New Jersey Region. “We honor this dedication during our Red Cross Month celebration, and we invite everyone to turn their compassion into action by joining us this Red Cross Month.” Join Red Cross Month by vis-

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Ex-fire chief Mawdsley recalled as a brother and inspiration

Touching words, donation for Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps Mayor Ray Arroyo shared his feelings on Mawdsleyʼs passing in part in remarks the next day, March 11, at the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corpsʼs first annual dinner since the pandemic

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

WESTWOOD

AYOR R AY A RROYO , the Borough Council, the Police Department, and the Volunteer Fire Department were among those remembering the late ex-Westwood fire chief James Mawdsley Sr. with love and respect following his passing, March 5, of natural causes. Mawdsley, of the borough, was laid to rest on Thursday March 10 as, in the words of the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department, “a father, a mentor, an ex-chief… a brother.” The department shared a video of Mawdsleyʼs moving final call — Well done, Jim. You can rest easy now. Weʼll take it from here —and recalled him as “an inspiration to all who knew him, and he loved the fire service.” Known as Jim to the senior men and Mr. Mawdsley to the younger members, Mawdsleyʼs was recalled as “treating everyone with the utmost respect.” The department added, “Jim was fire chief back in 1982, when the infamous Five Corners fires occurred. Even in his later years Jim stayed active in our relief association as president for many years. Thank you for all the

memories and knowledge you have pasted on to us, you may rest now and be happy and free with your family and friends above. R.I.P.” On behalf of Police Chief Michael R. Pontillo and all members of the Westwood Police Department, members expressed their heartfelt condolences to the Mawdsley family online. They shared the video of Mawdsleyʼs final call, steeped in crisp tradition, from first radio call to final bell, and said that “it couldnʼt be more spot on.” “Ex-Chief Mawdsley served the Borough of Westwood with pride and distinction for 52 years. The memories Ex-Chief Mawdsley created through his service to others will never be forgotten. May we honor him by living the lessons he taught us and showing a love of public

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

service. We ran Mawdsleyʼs obituary in our March 14 print edition. It noted he was the son of the late Charles and Helen (née Tierney). He was born and raised in Washington Heights, N.Y. It said his beloved wife, Peggy, predeceased him. He is survived by his son, James C. Mawdsley, daughter Susan DuBeck and her husband Christopher, and daughter Eileen Harrington and her husband Neal along with grandchildren Jimmy and Jennie Mawdsley, Sean and Ryan Harrington, and step-grandchildren Bryan and Ryan DuBeck. It noted he is survived by his sisters, Catherine and Frances, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Mawdsley was very active in Westwood, with 52 years of service to the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department, where he served in many roles including chief. He also served on various committees within the community. In his professional life, he served in the National Guard and had a long career as an electrician with Local 3 IBEW. He capped his career as director of facilities with New York Presbyterian Hospital. Interment was at Maryrest Cemetery, Mahwah. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

started in 2020. He presented a $500 check to the WVAC on behalf of the governing body, raised among them privately, in memory of Mawdsley “and in grateful recognition of your steadfast volunteerism.” Council president is Beth Dell. Members are Chris Montana, Rob Bicocchi, Erin Collins, Cheryl Hodges, and Anthony Greco. Arroyo told the corps, gathered to honor its volunteers, reflect on the past year, and (it posted) trade work boots for dancing shoes, “I know the governing body and our residents have thanked you many times since for the dedication you have exhibited throughout our Covid threat.” He said, “We know that you risked your health and the health of your loved ones at home by continuing to ride and service our community during the pandemic. When Westwood needed you the most.” MAWDSLEY

He added, “But this weekʼs events reminded me of one of your pre-pandemic calls. In January 2019 you were summoned to 671 Ackerman Ave. for a person whoʼd collapsed and was in extreme distress. That person was former Westwood Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jim Mawdsley.” He recalled, “Ambulance Corps Volunteers Matt Foley, my good neighbor Jerry Sheridan, and Alexandra Klukosky — working in tandem with Westwood police officers Sean Roche, Dean McCarrol, Keith Bott, and Brian Donaghy — answered that call and through their efforts, Jim was returned from death to life. He was returned to Peg and Jimmy and Susan for a time, perhaps, when they needed him the most.” Arroyo said, “When Jim recovered, he was adamant about wanting to publicly thank the first responders whoʼd saved his life. I gave him that opportunity at the boroughʼs 2020 reorganization, when I was installed as mayor.” (See “Westwood Council reorganizes for a busy all-handson-deck 2020,” Pascack Press, Jan. 14, 2020.) And, he said, “What Westwood Ambulance Corps did for him meant so much to Jim. What you did really mattered. Jim was a 52-year WVFD member, a former chief, husband, father, and grandfather. Jimʼs life mattered to his family — and through his volunteer service, to everyone in this room.” The mayor said, “Every member of the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps might one day mean the difference between life and death for one of our people. And so every single one of you matters.” He added, “We lost Jim this past week, but I am sure he was extremely thankful for the extra time with us that you gave him.”

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The scene at the Westwood Borough Council 2020 reorganization meeting, at the community center. Mayor Ray Arroyo recalled the night, in remarks to the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps on March 11, 2022, as the public venue in which ex-fire chief James Mawdsley thanked the first responders who’d saved his life. Mawdsley died March 5, 2022, and was recalled for his stalwart service to the borough he loved. (John Snyder photo.)

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Pandemic Utility Relief, Energy Assistance Programs Many customers may not be aware they could be eligible for pandemic relief or energy payment assistance programs as new funding has become available and program income eligibility has been expanded: • PSE&G Payment Arrangements: 800-357-2262 or pseg.com/HelpNow. PSE&G is offering flexible payment options and deferred payment arrangements (DPAs). • Universal Service Fund (USF):800-510-3102 or energyassistance.nj.gov. USF includes an energy-debt forgiveness program called Fresh Start that can eliminate your past due balance. If you apply for USF, you areautomatically enrolled in Fresh Start. • Low Income Home EnerAssistance Program gy (LIHEAP): 800-510-3102 or energyassistance.nj.gov • Payment Assistance Gas and Electric (PAGE): 732-3892204 or 732-982-8710 or njpoweron.org • NJ SHARES (NJS): 866NJSHARES (657-4273) or njshares.org • New Jersey Lifeline: 800792-9745 or aging.nj.gov.

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ty nor requested its rezoning. Efforts to contact Craig Kerbekian, Hekemianʼs property manager for Westwood Plaza, were not returned by press time. Arroyo, a Republican, expanded on his thoughts in a

FROM PAGE 1

Facebook post March 16. He noted the boroughʼs Master Plan, revisited two years ago, recommended additional commercial uses be permitted in the Shopping Center zone. He also sounded a warning: “Residents should know that Assembly bill A-294, currently in

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characters and techniques. Class is held in person. A video will be posted on Facebook as well. Register online. • The library will hold a Movie Matinee Wednesday, March 23 at 1 p.m. Catch the film “Queen Bees” (2021, PG13). There will be closed captions. • Calling all coloring fans, stitchers, knitters, crocheters, and more! The Adult Coloring and Craft Group meets Fridays at 1 p.m. in the community room. Coloring and crafting promote relaxation and keep your mind active. Use the coloring supplies provided or bring your own craft project to work on. • Tales and Mocktails Book Club meets the last Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m. For March 28 the selection is “Save Me the Plums” by Ruth Reich. Members will meet up at the library for a friendly chat about the book. Adults only. Register online. FROM PAGE 11

WESTWOOD 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org • Children grades 1–3 are invited for a virtual Womenʼs History Month Game on Monday, March 21 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Log onto Google Meet to decode clues about important women in history and learn about some others in this fun twist on the classic game “Who Am I?” Register online. • There is a new book club starting up! The Non-Fiction Book Club will read timely books across subjects: history, science, medicine, nature, and more. The first title is “Sapiens” by Yuval Noah Harari, with discussion taking place online Monday, March 21 at 7 p.m. Register for the link. • Peek A Book Story Time is in the childrenʼs room Wednesdays in March from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Bring your little one, 5 or under, to hear stories, dance to action songs, enjoy some fingerplays and more, all while building literacy and socialization skills. Register online. • Does your child love Minecraft or want to learn more

about the world of building? Sign up for “Intro to Minecraft with Ryan & Jack,” a one-day gaming workshop for grades 2–5. Via Google Meet, Wednesday, March 23 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. You will need a computer with a camera. Register online. • The Online Book Group meets via Zoom, and in person in the libraryʼs upstairs meeting room, Thursday, March 24 at

committee, would overrule local zoning and allow developers of qualifying office parks and shopping centers to redevelop with residential mixed use … as of-right.” He said, “No use variance would need issue. The bill, if passed by the legislature and signed into law by Gov. Murphy,

7:30 p.m. to discuss “Finding Freedom” by Erin French. All adults are welcome to join. Register online. • Try your hand at Pen & Paper Games in the libraryʼs upstairs meeting room Friday mornings in March at 10 a.m. All adults are invited for good conversation and to play some fun games requiring only pen and paper. Each week brings a different set of games and a small prize. Register now, as space is limited.

would override local zoning prohibitions and preferences. It would treat all subject office parks and shopping centers, everywhere in the state, as ʻdistressed properties.ʼ” And, he said, “It establishes, by statute, a residential component as a permitted use, to relieve that distress.” The state League of Municipalities opposes the bill, he said. Commenters expressed concern and complained of the deteriorated parking lot. Arroyo advised complaining to the boroughʼs property maintenance office. When Westwood Plaza opened, in 1982, Kmart was an anchor tenant, along with Grand Union supermarket, where TJMaxx is now. This fall is Kmartʼs 40th year there.

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The store, which now has its wares consolidated in a smaller, sparer display area, giving the store a feeling of unused space, has outlasted many neighbors, including Hallmark, womenʼs clothing retailer Mandee, Petland Discounts, and Radio Shack. With the explosive growth of online merchandising and sales, major large box discount retailers have been in decline for years. Kmart closed stores in Wayne, Trenton and Wall in 2019, and stores in Belleville and Kearny closed last spring. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Kmart at its peak operated about 2,400 stores in the 1990s, employing about 350,000 people in the United States and Canada. — With John Snyder

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Questions: WT shapes $800K request on swim club the councilʼs initial efforts to acquire the club property by two councilmen — former member Michael DeSena and Steven Cascio — focused on the condition of the facility and what repairs would be needed to make it operational. Those studies were never done, though two studies are ongoing to evaluate the property. Also, underneath a section marked funding sources to indicate where the $800,000 was coming from, Tovo wrote “Municipal Capital Improvement Fund.” It was not clear why he wrote that, given the council bonded for $761,900, plus $38,100 as a down payment for the purchase. It appeared confusing to state the club was “currently in use”

FROM PAGE 6

and a capital fund was the source of funding if no funds for the purchase are currently contained there. Tovo did not return an invitation to comment by press time. The township has not yet closed on its purchase, and club trustees have declined to make a statement for the time being. Club bond holders are due refunds once the purchase concludes. Last summer, bond holders voted to not sell the club to the township, although that deal ultimately fell through allowing the township a second chance to purchase the site. On Feb. 22, the township hired two consultants — for a total of $15,150 — to perform an engineering land survey, mapping and environmental testing on the site

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HELP WANTED CUSTODIAN, RIVER PUBLIC VALE SCHOOLS. Long-term sub., M-F 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $25/hr., no benefits. Black Seal lic and public school exp. pref. Knowledge of plant operation and maintenance; cleaning methods & procedures. No boiler license req. Apply to Mr. Ken. Peterson, Dir. of Building and Grounds, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. Send an email to RBAJATI@ rivervaleschools.com or call 201-358-4000 ext. 4034. EOE.

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to determine if any issues or concerns exist prior to final purchase. Generally, due diligence efforts are conducted before a purchase moves to closing; instead the township approved funding and now is conducting pre-purchase inspections and studies. Officials previously said they hope to be able to use data and information from these studies in the county land acquisition grant application. Following submission of its application, the county Division of Land Management and Trust Fund Public Advisory Committee, “will begin its review and conduct site visits. It is anticipated that final funding approval via resolution by the Board of County Commissioners will occur in November 2022,” states the Trust Fund website. It also notes that acquisition costs will not be 100% funded by the county Trust Fund. It further notes applicants must explain any affordable housing implications and whether the acquisition is consistent with local, county and state planning goals. “Please indicate whether the proposed land acquisition property is consistent with all municipal plans, including (Council on Affordable Housing) COAH,

County Open Space Plan, and the State Development & Redevelopment Plan. If the municipality does NOT have appropriate COAH certification, then explain the status of its affordable housing compliance in relation to the subject property,” state county application guidelines. However, given possible acquisition by the township without Open Space funding, it was not clear whether Fair Share Housing Center, a statewide intervenor in affordable housing cases, might require the newly purchased acreage to be used to determine future affordable housing obligations. In other cases statewide, the center has filed legal actions to add newly available acreage in a town to its vacant land analysis. A municipalityʼs affordable obligation, or “realistic development potential,” is based on the vacant land potentially available for development. An email to Fair Share for comment was not returned by press time. Moreover, the application website notes, “State the amount of funding being requested in this application from the Bergen County Trust Fund for only the proposed land acquisition cost.

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PART-TIME SECRETARY, BOARD OF HEALTH, DPW: The Borough of Emerson seek a qualified person to work on a part-time basis. Duties include working for different departments and agencies as assigned including but not limited to Board of Health and DPW. Excellent customer service skills, attention to detail and organization a must. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: answering phones; preparing correspondence and filing; preparing and assembling meeting packets; scheduling meetings, scanning, data entry, and other related duties as assigned. Experience working in a municipal government environment a plus but not required. Applicant must have excellent computer skills including Microsoft software (Word, Excel, Outlook). Certified Recycling Professional certification a plus. Must be able to attend one evening meeting per month. Salary DOQ. Please submit cover letter/resume by email to Borough Administrator Robert Hermansen at administrator@emersonnj.org, by Friday, April 1, 2022 at 4:30 p.m. The Borough reserves the right to interview candidates prior to the closing date for responses. EOE

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Include supplemental funding and amounts and whether these amounts exist or are pending. State the estimated total cost of the land. Do not include any soft cots, (i.e., appraisals, survey, legal, environmental, grants-writing fees, etc. Bergen County does not provide Trust Fund awards totaling 100% of the land acquisition cost.” The above information is included in the first seven pages of county grant instructions posted online, which also includes 19 pages of an application form required for grant submission. The application information details six areas to be included in the application: • Consistency with local, county and state Open Space plans; • At least one appraisal report required as part of the application process; • Document COAH compliance with property to be acquired; • Document historic features or elements on the project site; • Current color site photographs must be submitted; and • A project site map citing environmental hazards, structures, natural resources, and cultural, historic and environmental characteristics.

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Thomas J. CONAHAN

Thomas J. “Tucker” Conahan, 66, of River Vale, passed away unexpectedly at his home early Monday morning, March 7, 2022. Born and raised in Hazleton, he was the son of the late Joseph B. and Elizabeth (McHugh) Conahan. Tucker was a graduate of Bishop Hafey High School class of 1974. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting from Kings College. Tucker began a career in the beverage business that spanned 20 years, beginning at MidWay Beverage in the Wilkes-Barre area. In 1989, he sold MidWay and relocated to New Jersey. There he was manager and partner of Brewers World, a wine, liquor, and beverage business, located in Dumont. He sold the business and properties in 2008. During his career in New Jersey, Tucker was an active member of the community, sponsoring many youth and adult sports teams. He was also a very active supporter of the local fire and police benevo-

lent associations. Outside of work, Tucker enjoyed golf trips with his brothers and fishing with his friends. He will be remembered by his loving family as a generous and caring brother with a quick Irish wit. His way of connecting with friends and family was to recall his days at 2nd and Vine, D. A. Harman and JBC Trucking. He loved the history that he and his family shared. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Betty Conahan. Tucker is survived by the following loving and devoted brothers and sisters: Dr. Joseph B. Conahan and wife Margaret, Dr. Francis Conahan and wife Sally, Attorney Paula DeJoseph and husband Daniel, Elizabeth Oldham and husband James, Michael Conahan and wife Barbara, Ann Marie Vita and husband Frank, Therese Tedesco and husband Don, and Dr. James Conahan and wife Molly. Also surviving are numerous nephews and nieces. Memorial donations may be made to Catholic Social Services, 106 S. Church St., Hazleton, PA 18201 or Annunciation Parish, Church of St. Gabriel, 122 S. Wyoming St., Hazleton, PA 18201.

Antonia D. PISARRI

Antonia D. Pisarri, 95, of River Vale passed away Saturday, March 12, 2022 at home. She is survived by her four sons, Ozzie, Thomas, Vanny and Joseph, and their wives, Linda and Laurine, and partner Jamie Lynne; her nine grandchildren, Ozzie, Carly, Ryan, Adrian, Melissa, Giovanni, Joseph, Michael, and Michelle; and four great-grandchildren, Anthony, Sophia, Connor and Bryson. Grandma, or Deme as she was known to her family, spent her years feeding loved ones with her secret

meatball recipe and endless pasta dishes. She fed everyone from her family and friends, to the deer, turkeys, and raccoons who waited outside her door for their corn and peanut butter sandwiches. She had a deep love for animals, the Yankees, the Rugrats and movie classics. Her grandchildren remember swimming in her pool, her infamous candy drawer, and the large taped notes on the wall she used to remember important moments. She was headstrong, funny, determined, and was a true family matriarch in every sense. She leaves behind the business that she helped to grow with her late husband Oswald “Ozzie” Pisarri, Eagle Paint and Wallpaper. The two of them worked seamlessly together to establish what would be their livelihood as of 1948. Their home was always a place where people were welcomed and taken care of, and it seems appropriate that they created a livelihood that did just the same. Even in Demeʼs final days she asked how business was, and if everyone was doing okay down at the store. She knew how to care, and how to love. Love, love, love, love—that is exactly what you would hear at the end of every conversation. She lived life with love and gave it to every soul she met. Her family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Save The Animals Rescue Team II (S.T.A.R.T. II) of Bergen County, and kindly include “Eagle Paint” in the notes.

Mark J. BRACKENBURY

Mark Joseph Brackenbury, 57, of Little Egg Harbor, formerly of Emerson, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, on March 13, 2022. Survived by his wife, Amy ViolaBrackenbury; sons Mark Jr. and wife

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Patricia, Evan, and Craig; grandson Jackson; his mother, Amelia (née Weinschreider); siblings Scott and wife Jennifer, Teresa Angelakos and husband Peter, Jeanette Kammlott and husband Robert, Andrew and wife Debbie and Catherine Brackenbury; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. He was predeceased by his father, Milton. Mark also leaves behind his four fur babies, Bella, Tripp, Carolina and George. Mark was a volunteer firefighter, starting at the Old Tappan Fire Department at the age of 16 alongside his father. He continued volunteering at the Emerson Fire Department, in which he was still an active member. He served as chief in 2016 and 2017. Mark loved serving his community. His favorite time of year at the fire department was the holidays. He and his wife met at the fire department during the holiday season, so it has always held a special place in both their hearts. The bond that has been formed with these men and women will be carried on and will never be forgotten. Mark was an accomplished director of IT. He graduated and attained a masterʼs degree from Stevens Institute of Technology. Mark worked for Pfizer for 14 years and was presently working for PDI/Nice-Pak in Woodcliff Lake. Mark loved the water and the beach. He and his wife made their dreams come true when they moved down the shore on the water. Mark was happiest when he was there. He loved barbecuing on the deck, boating, jet-skiing, dining out, watching football on Sundays, and spending time at home with his family. Mark was a happy, fun, loving guy. He lived a short life, but a full one. He will be dearly missed by many. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Markʼs memory to Emerson Fire Department, 146 Thomas Ave., Emerson, NJ 07630, or Rescue Dogs Rock (rescuedogsrock.org).

Gary J. REKUCKI

Gary James Rekucki, 64, of the Township of Washington, formerly of Teaneck, passed away suddenly and peacefully at his home on March 9, 2022. Beloved husband of Marianne Rekucki. Devoted father of Dylan Rekucki and Luke Rekucki of the Township of Washington. Cherished son of the late Walter and Marion Rekucki of Teaneck. Dear brother of Bart Rekucki of Ridgewood, Susan Houck of Ellicott City, Maryland, Carol Rekucki of Englewood, and Laura Collins of Gaithersburg, Maryland. Loving uncle of Bart, Tucker, Jack, Kelly, Will, Olivia, Grace, Billy, Jamie, Antoinette, John, Nick, and Andrew. Gary earned his B.S and M.B.A.

from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Locally, he was a proud supporter of Westwood High School football and lacrosse, and a parishioner at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Township of Washington. He loved outdoor adventure and enjoying his family at home. He took great pride in his yard and hosting family pool parties. His storytelling, great humor, and hearty laughter made him an instant friend to all he met. Gary enjoyed car restoration and was an avid collector of antique British cars. His mechanical ability won the admiration and respect of all. Prior to retirement, Gary had a finance management career at Pan Am, Sony, Warner Communications, and Bio Reference Labs. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate your generosity to St. Jude Childrenʼs Hospital and/or the Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research.

Frances A. GALVIN

Frances A. Galvin, 89, of Cedar Crest in Pompton Plains, formerly of Montvale, died on Sunday, March 13, 2022. Frances is survived by her loving husband, Donald, her daughters, Grace Galvin and Nancy Sierra, son-in-law Joseph Buono, and her grandchildren, Joshua, Deborah, and Adam Eike. She is also survived by her siblings, Dorothy and Thomas, and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers, Matthew and Edward. Committal service was at the Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah. In lieu of flowers, donations in Francesʼ memory can be made to the Matheny Medical and Educational Center, P.O. Box 339, Peapack, NJ 07977.

Frank A. CONNELL

Frank A. Connell Jr., 89, of Woodcliff Lake, passed into eternal life on Monday, March 14, 2022. Devoted father of Nancy Gacek and Brian Connell and his wife, Linda. Dear brother of Joan Connell, Rev. John Andrew Connell, and Carol Lampert. Loving grandfather of Sarah Gacek and Billy and Brianna Connell. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Agnes Connell, and his grandson, Brendon Gacek, both in 2003. For 41 years Frank was the president of Frank Connell Associates Inc., supplying Brandt coin and currency handling equipment to the financial industry. He graduated from St. Johnʼs University and served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1962. In lieu of flowers, donations would be gratefully accepted for De La Salle Brothers, 810 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738.

FROM PAGE 1

earned and already displayed on virtually every square inch of wall space. Lee Tremble, who recently passed the reins to his son Sean, says “Itʼll be fun. Weʼre closed on Mondays now because we donʼt have enough staff, so you canʼt get a beer, canʼt get a hamburger or anything like that — so we wonʼt burden everybody on a Monday — but we will have cake and coffee and we may even open that night around 4 oʼclock, weʼll have to see.” Every month for the rest of the year will bring “a different featured burger, contests constantly, write me your favorite memory of the Iron Horse in 50 words or less, it goes on,” Tremble told Pascack Press on March 16. And he shared the restaurantʼs “Sneak Peek” secret, which will come to patrons in sealed white envelopes, with instructions. We wonʼt spoil the surprise(s). The building, just off the tracks, started out as Meyerʼs Park Hotel, dating to the 1870s. It evolved into the Park Tavern, then made its way to the care of Marion and Dudley Tremble, Bill Noonan, and Lee Tremble. The Iron Horse picked up power and earned its chops on stuffed burgers and demonstrable love for its clientele. In 2006, on the occasion of his accepting Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Councilʼs (BVC) Business Volunteer of the Year, he spoke with Pascack Press writer Kristin Beuscher, who observed, “There is nary a segment of the borough in which Tremble hasnʼt lent and helping hand. Among the many organizations, boards and committees thatʼs heʼs either helped to found, lead, been a member of or donated his time: Westwood Heritage Society; the Thomas J. Riley Riley Senior Center at Westwood House; Westwood Baseball Association; Westwood Athletic Alliance, Westwood and Township of Washington Education Foundation; Westwood Rotary; Pascack Valley Hospitalʼs Board of Directors, Silver Open and Community Services and Community Relations boards; the boroughʼs Borough Hall Building, Centennial, Home for the Holidays and 9/11 committees; Spectrum for Living, the Board of Health; David Goldberg Child Care Center; the American Heart Association; the Bergen County Special Services Board of Education and the Westwood Substance Abuse Committee.” (Weʼll add to that Bergen Habitat for Humanity and Meals on Wheels North Jersey.) Tremble said then, “I need to have very little parameters around what I do. I donʼt need triplicate forms and approvals to do what I do, because I move too fast. Iʼm a lot like Don Quixote in the fact that I will attack a windmill, and

then once Iʼve attacked it, I need (at 11 a.m.) for opening day and Fitzsimmons, owner of Westwood the people behind me to finish the was The Iron Horseʼs first cus- Gallery, told us on March 15, “My job because Iʼve already found tomer. appreciation of Lee and the Iron another windmill and Iʼm on my Lee describes onetime frustra- Horse dates to 2008 when we were way.” tion with his Budweiser distributor working on The Taste of WestSean has been at the restau- that resolved into a virtuoso per- wood. The culture of mutual suprant since he was 16, starting as a formance of customer service: the port and congeniality among the busboy and working his way up. Oct. 16, 2016 delivery of an order restaurants was the opposite of the He says the crush of keeping via the companyʼs famous Clydes- Ray Kroc (McDonaldʼs) strategy quality up while staffing fell off a dales. of crushing the competition. If you cliff is taking a toll on him physiAmong the treasures Tremble were out of power or needed freezcally, but he still er space, Lee and loves showing off The Iron Horse the brass bell on Restaurant were the roof, overthere to help. looking Veterans Their priority Memorial Park. remains the comLee took this munity they reporter on a tour serve.” of the restaurant He added, “Lee and the former is often referred residential areas to as the unoffiupstairs on March cial mayor of 15 and inundated Westwood. In fact him with stories (no offense to the likes of which Mayor Arroyo) he proved the venue accomplishes has a life of its The scene in 2016 after the Budweiser Clydesdales made a delivery to more behind the own. The place scenes and under the Iron Horse. (Bergen County Aerial Media screenshot.) has absorbed the radar and he decades of energy in its ample lingers over longest are the framed could if he held elected office. woodwork and railroad memora- collages of former employees. Between Leeʼs cell phone and one bilia, and it and Lee seemed made Heʼs sent kids off to culinary or two others, they could solve any for each other. A good thing. school and says many of his problem you might have had.” The most resonant stories employees have gone on to Fitzsimmons said, “Ask any were those that featured happy become chefs, doctors, lawyers, Little League coach, senior center, coincidences, many of which Lee assistant attorneys general, mem- scout troop, or countless other deftly orchestrated. bers of rock bands, and successful organizations who have been the In the original restaurant businesspeople. beneficiaries of The Horseʼs genspace, its former gift shop The restaurant counts among erosity.” “caboose,” and “new room,” for its most famous patrons Gene Beth Dell, this yearʼs Borough those counting from the 1980s, he “Stick” Michael, Lawrence Taylor, Council president, told us, “Menannotates most of his tales by table Ed Lopat, Buddy Hassett, Willard tion Westwood to an outsider and number. Marshall, Bruce Springsteen, the first thing they connect to is Four years ago, Tremble Eddie Brigatti, Dean Friedman, The Iron Horse. A landmark noted, the restaurant served more Bart Oats, Harry Carson, Billy famous for its cole slaw, pickles, than 100,000 customers a year, Sample, Rick Cerone, Mary Hig- stuffed burgers, fries, wings and many of whom are regulars. He gins Clark, Mary Jane Clark, and proprietor. (The Octoberfest said, “We were ranked ʻBest Friesʼ the monarch of the Philippines. themed menu featuring sauerbrain Bergen County by the Bergen ten and potato pancakes is also Record, and ʻBest Burgerʼ several pretty famous.)” Memories from friends times by (201) Magazine and othShe said, “This beloved Borough booster Mike ers.” Of awards, he said, “Weʼve got milk crates and milk crates and WESTWOOD milk crates” of them. Both he and Sean described the cut of the pandemic, the diffiThe Westwood Volunteer Fire culties it wrought in supplies and Department is pleased to staffing. Lee falls quieter in recalling announce its annual Community the many patrons heʼs known over Service Scholarship Program for the college academic year beginthe years — these decades — who ning September 2022. are no longer with the family. The Westwood Fire DepartHe laughed warmly in ment has been awarding scholardescribing the slight scandal he ships since 1981. caused by wearing his flowered The program awards two shirt, and sandals, to a dear friendʼs $1,000 scholarships each year. The funeral. scholarship award is paid directly He touches the end of the bar to the college or university the stuto remember a patron, to feel his dent will attend and is applied presence there. That was his spot. toward such items as tuition, room Here, Leeʼs motherʼs hand has and board, fees and books. accredited college or university in written the prices in their restauApplicants must be a current order for the award to be paid to rantʼs first menu — or bill of fare, high school senior and a resident the institution. appropriate to the “restaurant… of Westwood, a Westwood Fire All applicants must complete cafe… gathering place… down by department member, or the child the Westwood Volunteer Fire the railroad tracks!” of a Westwood Fire Department Department Scholarship ApplicaAnd promised right inside the member, and apply and file the tion, verify a record of volunteer trifold: Enjoy the crocks of appropriate admission application service to the citizens of Westwood coleslaw and pickles served at forms at any college or university with a letter from the community your table. that he or she may be interested in service organization where the stuHe shows off, with pride, the attending. dent volunteers. This letter must small marker at Josieʼs table, Josie Each scholarship winner must certify their service, and state the having shown up a half-hour early present an acceptance letter to an approximate number of hours of

restaurant and the friendly, welcoming greeting that comes from the legendary Lee and Annie Tremble, now son Sean and his wife Nicky, has been a Westwood institution for decades.” She said, “This is where I introduced new Westwood mainstay Lauren Letizia to Lee Tremble. It was a meeting that could have lasted about 10 minutes but instead, as Lee offered up so much Westwood history to Laurenʼs eager and absorbent mind, it lasted hours.” Dell recalled that after recovering from a major health issue in 2012, then Councilmember Peter Grefrath (now emeritus) hosted the first major event at the Iron Horse upon its reopening from fire repairs. She said, “Almost anyone can connect a memory to the Iron Horse, whether itʼs the High School Woodington Players, graduation class brunch, fundraisers for so many causes, local groups meeting in the upstairs room, a bite and a beverage before, or after, the Home For The Holidays Parade, sometimes causing one to miss the parade entirely.” Dell added, “Because Lee Tremble has been so generous over the years, the Horseʼs impact reaches well beyond the doors of 20 Washington Avenue. Limitless school feasts, such as International Day, were granted wares for consumption. Tricky tray prizes were provided for countless fundraisers. Requested food, ice, paper products or whatever could be offered for any other circumstance, event or gathering, including fellow Westwood restaurants in a pinch, was. Lee never said no.” For menu, gallery, and much more, visit theironhorse.com.

WVFD scholarships available

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Iron Horse: Marks 50th on March 21; year of gifts

volunteer service they provided during the past year. Applicants also write an essay of approximately 500 words on how their volunteer service to the Borough of Westwood affected their lives. The Westwood Fire Department Scholarship Committee administers the program. A separate Scholarship Review Committee comprised of leaders of area volunteer organizations reviews the scholarship applications, requests additional information if needed and recommends candidates to receive the awards. The scholarship selections are based on scholastic achievement, extra-curricular activities and community service. They are not decided based on financial need. Eligible applicants are encouraged to grab an application packet from the department at westwoodfire.org. Submissions must be postmarked no later than Sunday May 1, 2022.

MARCH 21, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Pascack Press 3.21.22

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