Pascack Press 6.20.22 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 14

Change of pace

JUNE 20, 2022

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

SOFTBALL SUPERSTARS

Perfect season, 10th inning crown for PRMS Owls

PASCACK– WASHINGTON OVERHAUL REVS UP

County approves $2M contract; vacant houses to be torn down; work seen as wrapping in 2023

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Hillsdale BOE president Shane Svorec says she’s stepping down. SEE PAGE 6

EMERSON

DEBAUN HOUSE

1770s building, an Old Hook relic and home to Legion Post 269, falls to bulldozer; new veteran housing eyed

WRECKED

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

One of the boroughʼs oldest buildings — the DeBaun House, built in the 1770s — is down, reduced to scrap in a dayʼs work. The scene at the former American Legion Post 269 drew a handful of onlookers, including a River Vale resident, Dennis Ruby, who claimed a floorboard for a home project; a member of the boroughʼs Historic Preservation Commission, who braved the wreckage to point out the original foundation and signs of old fire damage; and a

See DeBAUN on page 104

Park Ridge Middle School’s girls softball team dominates the season, 11-0, and reigns as NBMSIAL champs. Eighth graders are Kate Broderick, Stacy Caracozza, GiGi Dow, Gabi DellaVolpe, Amanda Friedlander, Elizabeth Gibbons, Madelyn Hryniw, Meghan Long, and Katelyn Nilsen. Seventh graders are Aurelia E. Carolan, Dani DellaVolpe, Mia Ferguson, Kayla Iula, Brianna Moser, Tori Peirano, Lily Robinson, Lauren Stewart, and Serena Wagner. Coach Karen Carroll is at right.

BY NOAH SCHWARTZ OF PASCACK PRESS

the Park Ridge Girls Middle School softball team on their dramatic come-frombehind 11-10 win against Wyckoff in 10 innings on Monday ONGRATULATIONS TO

June 6. They are now the NBMSIAL Champions. With this win the girls completed their season with a perfect 11-0 record. The team fell behind early. Going into the bottom of the last inning, they were down 5 to 2 but fought hard to tie the game

and send it into extra innings. Down 9 to 5 in the 8th inning, the team again fought back and tied the game at 9. In the 10th inning, Wyckoff once grabbed the lead, 10 to 9. Batting in the bottom of the

See SOFTBALL on page 384

Bergen County Commissioners on May 18 approved a nearly $2 million Bergen County contract to improve traffic circulation at the Pascack Road–Washington Avenue intersection. Preliminary work to upgrade culverts and drainage at the intersection might start by mid or late summer, Pascack Press has learned. Nearly three years after the township initiated a shared-services agreement with Bergen County to upgrade the notorious bottleneck, the work looks likely to commence within weeks, Bergen County spokesperson Michael Sheinfield told Pascack Press on June 14. He said the county awarded a $1,980,941 contract in mid-May and that that county engineers were originally hoping that work might begin soon. While the contractorʼs timeline provided has estimated a 180-day construction period, or six months between start and completion, county officials anticipate delays, mostly due to supply chain holdups, especially in getting the steel needed for custom-fabricated traffic signals. Mayor Peter Calamari told Pas-

See INTERSECTION on page 394

PIRATES PLAY HERE

B ck in time...

For the second consecutive season, the Bergen Pirates are set to play four home games at Westwood’s Westvale Field.

George G. White, namesake of Hillsdale’s middle school, was principal of the borough’s K-8 school in the turbulent early 20th century. Kristin Beuscher has the story. SEE PAGE 4

SEE PAGE 30

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Creative thinking needed on flooding To the editor: , communities prone to flooding begin their E season of stress. Storms cycle VERY SPRING

through with varying amounts of rain. Some provide relief to thirsty plants, while others bring the puddles seeking a flood party. Pascack Valley mayors [the Pascack Valley Mayors Association] have recently cited theyʼre working diligently to bring

accountability to the water company, working with state representatives in hopes to dictate greater capacity for storms. [Letters, June 13, 2022.] They want to lower the reservoirʼs operating water retention threshold based on weather forecasts — a big ask when the science is imperfect. An effort that seems to sidestep municipalities culpability. A dam is static: it seeks to control a public needed commodity, enabling an entity to collect and assert its availability. Dams arenʼt designed to manage the seasonal patterns of weather. Besides, floods contain multiple causative factors, necessitating a broader approach. Floods begin with extensive rains falling on saturated grounds, combining with drainage off impervious surfaces of municipal approved developments, melding together, guided by topography. Then add brooks and streams, void of regular maintenance, such that sandbars, fallen trees and decomposing vegetation buildup reduce flood water capacity. The faster we can assist stormwaterʼs unobstructed flow,

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the sooner itʼs out of our backyards. For example, down by Brookside Park thereʼs significant sandbars, easily displacing a water capacity of 20,000 gallons. Coupled with multiple spots in Westwoodʼs waterways alone, thereʼs a lot of water being displaced onto private property. Add commercial parking lots with unmaintained drainage basins and the list of factors contributing to flooding grows. Solution opportunities exist, we just need to apply our imagination. We can draw ideas from other statesʼ experiences, like adding detention basins, temporary alternative areas for flood water to collect while storms recede. Down off Nugent Place, several houses were removed from an area that floods regularly; via the state program to remove misguided development. Its benefit was limited. But if those properties were lowered 3plus feet into a sunken park with tapered sides, it could act as a detention basin; an area of 200 by 300 feet by 3 feet deep would hold 4 acre-feet of water by volume. Add one or two at opposite ends of Brookside Park, and another larger one in Pascack Park; youʼd be creating over 20

football fields 1 foot deep of flood water capacity in Westwood alone. The challenge is significant; a broad proactive partnership of municipalities working together, including county, state and the water company is required. Collectively, with more attentive development restraint, it could offset repeated property damages and stress. Thank you, Thomas Wanner Westwood Mr. Wanner is a past mayor of the Borough of Westwood

Zion Early Childhood Center gives thanks To the editor: extreme gratitude that we write this letter of Ithanks to the many sponsors, T IS WITH

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

return, but flourish, because of the philanthropic inclinations of our community at large. Thank you for believing in the mission of Zion to support our earliest learners as they grow spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially. We would like to specifically thank our Gold Sponsor Hodges and Sons Plumbing and Heating, Silver Sponsors BSA Troop 350 and Patricia Bradley, and Bronze Sponsors Buldo Services, Bernard & Heidi Schnoor, Elise & Thomas Gibson, Zion Lutheran Menʼs Club, Robert & Carol Sproviero, and Robin & Farrel Dym. We are grateful to 18 Friends of Zion Sponsors and the more than 200 local businesses, members of Zion Lutheran Church, current and alumni school families, and members of the community at large who donated tricky tray and auction prizes to support our cause. Furthermore, we are extremely thankful for the eagerness of alumni parents, current parents, and members of the church community, particularly the Girls Choir, who donated their time and talent. Thank you to the members of the Church Administrative Board, particularly Sean Dillon and Carl Maul, and the school and church staff, particularly Pastor Pranschke and Center Director Mrs. Meisten, who not only expertly guided the planning process, but put their trust in a novice committee in a most unusual year marked CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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• June 25: Bugs & Honey Fundraiser for the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. Goodie bag is $10 and contains a small jar of honey, bug-shaped graham crackers, St. John the Baptist fact card, and a rosary. Call Jay to order: (973) 760-3166.

$82.5M middle school vote approved for 2023 HILLSDALE

The Hillsdale Board of Education voted unanimously June 13 to go ahead with an estimated $82.5 million school bond referendum in March 2023 to replace the century-old George G. White Middle School. The June 13 meeting, held at George G. White Middle School, was attended by 25–30 residents, in the schoolʼs large cafetorium. More than two dozen residents peppered the board with questions about tax increases, lowercost alternatives, and an alleged lack of public outreach about their plans. Operating without an audio system, both residentsʼ and trusteesʼ voices occasionally were inaudible. After the meeting, Superintendent Robert Lombardy told Pascack Press that the proposed projectʼs schematic plans would be submitted to the state Depart-

ment of Education to review and approve. Lombardy has said as the project is 100% new construction, it was unlikely to qualify for any state aid reimbursement. If approved next March, the measure will cost an average Hillsdale taxpayer an extra $1,300 over a 20-year bond term, officials said. Trustees stressed that local voters will ultimately decide via a referendum vote whether to approve the new middle school. However, board president Shane Svorec said if citizens do not do something today to improve the school, “something will happen that will force us to pay.” Svorec said the boardʼs choice to replace the middle school was “extremely frugal” and “fiscally responsible” while at least a dozen residents criticized the added tax burden and cited the need for the district to better explain why a new middle school now is the best option for taxpayers. Several residents claimed they had only recently read about

or heard about the proposed referendum, and at one point a resident, Adam Hampton, and Svorec traded tense words over what Svorec viewed as negative social media comments about board transparency. Trustees have been discussing a possible referendum for nearly a year at public meetings. However, little information has been posted on the district website. Moreover, several residents wondered why the board declines to broadcast and archive its public meetings given widely available broadcasting/recording technology. Trustees did not address the issue. Some speakers noted other residents cannot attend a meeting but would prefer to watch it online if available. Svorec said the board has always answered questions from all residents attending school board meetings about the referendum. The Borough Council broadcasts and archives its meetings online, and Mayor John Ruocco

has recently pressed for more transparency by asking that documents to be approved at public meetings are linked to the councilʼs online agenda. Those documents are considered “advisory, consultative or draft” under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and generally withheld from public view until approved. Overall, only a few school boards broadcast their meetings, though school district costs generally consume 60% to 75% of a taxpayerʼs yearly property tax

bill. (See “Reporterʼs Notebook: Which towns, school boards livestream?” Pascack Press online, April 10, 2022.) (Moreover, Pascack Press has reported on the proposed referendum at least seven times since November 2021. See “Replacing George G. White: District eyes next chapter for veteran school,” Nov. 19. 2021.) At least a half-dozen residents said that they did not believe the school board provided enough publicly accessible CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

B ck in time...

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

Treasures await at Summer Curiosity Sale, June 25-26 PARK RIDGE

The Pascack Historical Societyʼs Summer Curiosity Sale is set for Saturday and Sunday, June 25–26, from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. at the museumʼs Ellen Berdais Hall, 19 Ridge Ave. in Park Ridge. The sale will run rain or shine and admission is free. Please bring your own shopping bags. This is a cash sale. The museumʼs meeting room will be packed with thousands of attic and basement treasures at bargain prices. The selection includes antiques, collectibles, glassware, artwork, vintage and costume jewelry, crystal, pottery, books, furniture, and gently used housewares. The Curiosity Sale is a favorite among antique collectors and bargain hunters around the Tri-State region. All proceeds go to the operating expenses of the historical society, a 501(c)(3) organization. The event is run entirely by volunteers. Note: Additional sale donations are not being accepted at this time. For more information, call (201) 573-0307 or visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org. Find the Pascack Historical Society on Facebook for sale updates and photos. — Staff report

Right: A fraction of the goods being snapped up at the Pascack Historical Society Winter `21 Curiosity Sale. Below left: The Pascack Historical Society John C. Storms Museum’s new sign, at 19 Ridge Road, Park Ridge. The museum and its Ellen Berdais Hall have reopened after cleanup and repairs following a water pipe break this spring.

George G. White was admired as Hillsdale’s school principal, a title he held for nearly 30 years. He’s pictured here backing the assembled eighth grade graduates of 1922.

George G. White’s young charges

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in or around the Borough of Hillsdale long enough you have probably heard the name George White. After all, thatʼs what the middle school is called. But back in the early 20th century, George G. White was known for being Hillsdaleʼs school principal, a title he held for nearly 30 years. In the photo above, White is pictured (behind the kids, just right of center) with the eighth-grade graduates of 1922. White, 27 at the time, oversaw education for all of Hillsdaleʼs pupils in kindergarten through eighth grade. In 1922, Warren G. Harding was president of our 48 states and America was under Prohibition (making the sale of alcohol illeF YOU HAVE LIVED

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

gal nationwide). There was no television, but there was radio, phonographs, and silent movies that these kids could go see at a theater in Westwood. The new flapper craze had young women pushing boundaries by bobbing their hair, wearing knee-length skirts, smoking cigarettes in public, dancing to jazz music, and driving automobiles. A major milestone that these kids witnessed was women gaining the right to vote. The 19th Amendment had become part of our U.S. Constitution in 1920. Itʼs difficult to imagine now, but prior to that year, school elections had two separate ballot boxes: one for financial appropriations, for which both men and women could vote, and one to elect board of education members, for which only men could vote. The three young ladies in this photo would

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

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enter a world much different than the one their mothers had experienced. In September 1922, these Hillsdale graduates would be off to high school—but they had to venture outside town for that. There were two high schools in the area: one in Westwood (at Mill Street and Third Avenue, since demolished) and another in Park Ridge (still operating a century later in the same location). Hillsdale students could attend either one, with their school district paying the tuition. It remained this way until Pascack Valley High School was built in the 1950s.

— Kristin Beuscher, a former editor of Pascack Press, is president of Pascack Historical Society in Park Ridge and edits its quarterly membersʼ newsletter, Relics.

John J. DeFina John Snyder Michael Olohan 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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Road, storm drain projects get OK; enviro consultant hired

Approximately $265,000 was appropriated by the Township Council June 13 for a road reconstruction project, including nearly $65,000 for engineering and construction management for road improvements and proposed storm drain improvements, said the townshipʼs business administrator. Township Administrator Gennaro Rotella said that a proposed Dorchester Drive and Colonial Road reconstruction project received a $201,000 grant from the state Department of Transportation (DOT) Municipal Aid Grant Program. The council appropriated $30,650 for the road reconstruction project design, specifications and construction monitoring services from Township Engineer Christopher Statile, said Rotella. Most of those funds will come

from the capital account, he said. Rotella said the DOT grant should reimburse the reconstruction project, plus only the construction management services from Statile. He said the DOT grant would not reimburse costs for the project design and bid specifications. He said, however, that project design and specs must meet with DOT approval for the grant reimbursement. Moreover, Rotella said a separate resolution appropriated $34,650 for the township engineer to prepare bid specs and provide full-time inspection and monitoring services on a storm drain improvements project for the Tiffany & Wilson/Beechcrest Drive area. This project is separate from the Dorchester Drive and Colonial Road reconstruction. He said funds for the project

will be covered by federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds received by the township. Council also approved hiring a consultant, The Environmental Group, Woodcliff Lake, who was the lone bidder for the environmental consultant position previously advertised. The consultant prepares required environmental reports needed by the public works department, River Vale Country Club, and required state regulatory reports, Rotella said. The consultant charges the following rates for hourly consulting services: $325 for licensed site remediation professional; $225 for principal envi-

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and $65 for clerical and support staff. — Staff writer Michael Olohan

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BOE president Svorec says she’s stepping down BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

School Board President Shane Svorec announced her resignation “with mixed emotions” at the June 13 board meeting after serving seven-and-a-half years on the board in various roles, including president, vice president and a trustee on multiple committees over the years. Svorec announced her resignation soon after the board voted 5-0 to approve the $82.5 million middle school referendum as part of the buildings and grounds consent agenda. She later said that her resignation had nothing to do with any social media controversy or chatter over the proposed middle school referendum. She discounted any rumors that her resignation was related to “rising heat from a particular project,” and “social media outbursts. I

am a lot tougher than that and Iʼve endured much, much more.” She noted the board can count on her for support “as a plain old taxpayer.” She will leave the board at the end of the 2021-2022 school year, although she noted she had “struggled” with making the decision. She said when her youngest child graduated from middle school last year, she said it felt “like a natural and appropriate time for me to move on.” She said, however, that her commitment to the school district and will to serve “during trying times” prolonged the decision. She said as a volunteer she has worked alongside many trustees, several superintendents, and faced obstacles and challenges. She said she has witnessed “many students succeeding, teachers overcoming and dedicated parents and various stakeholders supporting our efforts and contributing to the success of our district.” “While it has been a tough

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serve in this capacity.” Other trustees and Lombardy praised Svorecʼs contributions to the board. Svorec said she would remain as president through the end of June to assist the board while it goes through the process of interviewing and selecting a new trustee. The board will soon advertise for and interview new volunteers interested in filling an open seat on the board, officials said.

and tiring job, it has also been a moving and gratifying experience and one in which Iʼve taken great pride and made a significant investment in,” she said. She said she has volunteered “in some capacity” for over nine years with local schools.

She said she fully supports the districtʼs plans for a new middle school and praised Superintendent Lombardyʼs leadership. She thanked residents who have supported her and voted for over the years, she noted, “it has been an honor and a privilege to

Up for indie book award Separately, Svorec recently wrote a book, “Broken Little Believer: Finding Purpose in All the Pretty Painful Pieces,” that is named by the Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group as one of the best indie books of 2022. Svorecʼs book is a finalist in the Spirituality category in the 2022 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the worldʼs largest book awards program for independent publishers. Svorec will be honored on June 24 at a gala event at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., coinciding with the American Library Association Annual Conference. See “Shane Svorec invites you on the ʻroad tripʼ of your life,” Pascack Press, July 23, 2021.

Parent session June 28 on health curriculum

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Hillsdale school officials will provide an information session for parents to discuss the districtʼs approach to state-mandated health curriculum changes that address sex education, physical development, and gender expression on Tuesday, June 28 at 5:30 p.m. at Ann Blanche Smith School Media Center. Superintendent Robert Lombardy announced the session at the June 13 meeting, noting the forum would discuss how the district will incorporate the new state standards in “an age-appropriate and common sense fash-

ion.” Lombardy said parents from all schools are welcome to attend, adding an email invitation was sent to parents about the session and how to RSVP. The session will feature a presentation by Jaclyn Derwin, district supervisor of curriculum, instruction and assessment. The state Board of Education is currently awaiting a decision by the state Attorney Generalʼs Office to decide if they can delay implementation of Comprehensive Health and Physical Education Standards, approved in 2020,

until October 2022 to further review the state standards based on comments and feedback from parents and school districts. Much political pushback on the new standards has developed, including efforts by State Senator Holly Schepisi, (39th District) to promote awareness among parents and press for a review of the standards, which critics allege go too far, confuse children and young adults, and teach topics best taught at home by parents. — Staff writer Michael Olohan

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

At least two members from the Westwood Regional School District board said May 26 that they would work together to help draft a letter about the need for gun reforms and increased funding for school security, in the aftermath of the elementary school massacre in Uvalde, Texas, that killed 19 youngsters and two teachers. WWRSD includes six schools, a regional high school, regional middle school and two elementary schools in Westwood and Washington Township. Board President Frank Romano III said if a draft letter is written to request additional funds, trustees could discuss such an effort at the next meeting and either move on the initiative or refer the letter to committee for further research and refinement. In addition, after urging from several residents referencing the Uvalde massacre, the board will likely soon take up whether to add at least two additional SLEO III police officers — who are recently retired officers — so that all six district schools will be covered by a fulltime SLEO III. Several residents raised the need for the two additional SLEO IIIs, which would provide an armed officer at each school, especially in

< Related: ʻSupt. Mortimer on WWRSD at school yearʼs end,ʼ page 19.

the wake of Uvalde. The two new officers combined would cost approximately $100,000 to $110,000 in the 20222023 budget. Currently, the 2022 budget includes funding for four SLEO IIIs: one at the high school,

one in middle school, and two more officers, one for each of the two towns to cover two elementary schools in Westwood and two in Township of Washington. After the superintendent recommended three officers, the board then approved the 2022-2023 budget with three SLEO IIIs earlier this year, and then voted again to add a fourth officer for 2022-2023. Trustee Michelle Sembler said

she would be happy to draft a letter regarding the districtʼs desires for gun reform and funding needed for extra school security following Uvalde. Sembler said she would email trustees looking for feedback on what to include in the letter. Sembler said she supported more Class III officers in schools, “not necessarily to stop an AR-15 because nobody can do that” but to provide security and help prevent

incidents by getting clues to what other students may be thinking or doing. She said the officers can develop trust and relationships with students that provides a proactive approach to security. She said it was important for staff, students and security to keep “our eyes open and our ears open (and) if you see something say CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

$13,000 REHAB STUDY OK’D ON DOWNTOWN, COMMERCIAL ZONE BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

A nearly $13,000 contract was awarded to planning consultant DMR Architects to undertake a “rehabilitation investigation study” of properties near the downtown commercial area to see what potential properties may

qualify for a future rehabilitation proposal. The DMR proposal was not available prior to the meeting for public review, noted Mayor John Ruocco, who questioned why some commercial properties were included and not others. A later motion to make documents to be voted on available in advance fizzled. (See Ruoccoʼs letter to the editor in this issue.)

Councilman Frank Pizzella, who has spearheaded efforts to improve and revitalize the downtown, including the ongoing redevelopment efforts in the Patterson Street redevelopment zone, was absent on June 14. Reached June 15, Pizzella told Pascack Press that the rehabilitation proposalʼs approval was “perfect timing. Iʼm so happy that that was passed. You really want

to have a downtown revitalization plan in place when you have interest in development in your town.” He added, “When the economy comes back, you have a plan in place when the investors are ready to invest.” He said the rehabilitation plan can integrate “community standards and help revitalize the downtown. Itʼs important to be ahead of the economic curve to encourage developers.” The redevelopment committee is negotiating with Claremont March development over a redeveloperʼs agreement to work out details for a potential 4-story, 250unit luxury apartment complex on 5.4 acres in the Patterson Street redevelopment zone. Borough administrator David Troast told Ruocco that local officials can generally add in or delete properties considered for rehabilitation as the study moves along. He said when the final study is complete, and before approving a rehabilitation plan to be sent to the Planning Board, officials must make sure that the correct properties that qualify for rehabilitation are included. “The Borough of Hillsdale desires DMR Architects to provide Planning Services in connection with a Rehabilitation Study for the Commercial Zone and a few additional properties outside the commercial zone in order to

determine if the certain properties meet one or more of the statutory criteria for rehabilitation set forth in N.J.S.A. 40A:12A in an amount not to exceed $12,700,” reads resolution 22115, approved at the June 14 meeting. The resolution states the contract was for an amount not to exceed $12,700. During the meeting, Ruocco said he found the properties included and excluded “most curious” and described the selections as “weird.” Troast said it was important to move forward with the study, as it would require “much interaction with the Council and the Planning Board.” Ruocco, as mayor, does not vote except in case of a tied council vote. Troast said developing and approving a rehabilitation plan “ready to go when developers are ready to go” would help the local tax base and provide more commercial services for residents to enjoy. According to New Jersey Rev. Statutes 40A:12A-14 (2013), the law lists three conditions for determination of need for rehabilitation: • A significant portion of structures are in deteriorated or substandard condition, with a CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

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Arroyo: ‘Before the deluge: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’

PASCACK VALLEY

1977 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers studied various approaches to the systemwide problem of local flooding. The report considered flood mitigation techniques, and their relative costs, for each section or “reaches” along the drainage basin, it applied a cost benefit analysis to the data. The corps concluded that “non structural” approaches such as clearing and de-snagging the local waterways, although low in cost, provided no real upside benefit in reducing flooding or property damage. (By improving flow, however, bank erosion is reduced. (Unchecked erosion builds up, creating sand bars in the stream). Structural improvements that were considered included channel excavation, the installation of 9foot-tall flood walls and the installation of 10-foot-tall levees. (The latter is somewhat counterintuitive since the elevated and sloped berms, while preventing the rising brook from breeching the channel, would send the runoff from local rain back onto the adjacent properties and into the streets. This would require the addition of pumping stations along each municipalities storm water system). N

< This is part 2 of our summer series on flood issues in the Pascack Valley, informed by the Borough of Westwoodʼs history and recommendations after years of painful experience with flooding. < Related news from Hillsdale: ʻUnanimous council resolution backs lower reservoir levels,ʼ page 29.

The corps concluded that “there was a federal interest in providing flood control measures along the Pascack Brook … at Westwood and Hillsdale” and that channel excavation and widening was the “most feasible alternative”; providing flood protection against storm damages “greater than the 100 year design flood” and that the benefit of such measures exceeded their costs.” A Phase 3 study was recommended but never implemented. Note, the recommended solution is 45 years old. Its costs were based on the contemporaneous value of construction materials, labor , financing , property acquisition, easements and FEMA covered flood damages. Also, the widening aspect entailed creating a 70-to-90-footwide channel at the surface, an encroachment that would eliminate the backyards of many properties adjacent to the Pascack Brook. The cost analysis included purchasing “easements” —

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title sponsor, along with 25 other local businesses. Paragon Drive has been a perfect setting for the past seven years. The tree-lined street is transformed into a large street fair with more than 100 vendors featuring antiques and crafts from all over New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania; rides; amusements; and 30 food vendors. The fair has something for each member of the family. This year the street fair also features many communitiesʼ non-profit groups.

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The scene after a no-name late-May storm in Westwood, in the area of Nugent Park. Frances Yates photo. acquired voluntary or via eminent domain. What was the most “feasible” option then might be exponentially less feasible now. Development in and around the basinʼs flood plains has proceeded apace since 1977, especially in Rockland County, N.Y. Property acquisition costs would now be exponentially more

costly than the 1977 estimates. In 1977 the averaged assessed home in Westwood was $22,000. Today it is $465,000, or 20.4 times the 1977 value. The physical parameters of this proposed plan dredging depth and channel width would have to be recalibrated (deeper and wider)

to handle current rain and runoff volumes. Bear in mind, even if such a massive undertaking could overcome the DEPs regulatory hurdles and the “not in my back yard” (NIMBY, literally) resistance, such an enterprise might take five years to restudy, plan, fund, and begin to implement. If it survived the changes in elected officials, assigned agency personnel, and unknown future funding challenges weʼd likely be looking at a 15-to-20-year schedule to completion. That helps no one currently living in the flood zones, jolted out of a sound sleep at the sound of thunder, anxiously anticipating the first rain drops. It might also explain why comprehensive flood solutions, featuring infrastructure on a scale that might actually break the flood cycle, have failed to launch. Ray Arroyo is mayor of Westwood. Next week: Part 3: “Lost in the Flood: The role of the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir.”

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY RAY ARROYO FOR PASCACK PRESS

DeBaun: Revolution-era house long a town meeting space Legionnaire, who gave the thumbs up as the last pieces standing collapsed. Borough officials have said that in the buildingʼs place, the legion post, which owns the building on its 1.6 acres, aims to construct four one-bedroom apartments for veterans. The post and other stakeholders already built an adjacent 14 affordable apartment units for veterans. Whatever rises here also will accommodate a legion space. Borough and post officials said many efforts to preserve the Dutch-style building were attempted over the last several years but structural issues, mold, and widespread second-floor damage caused by a plumbing leak, and dry rot found on the exterior had made restoration too difficult. The house served as a meeting site for veterans since after World War I, in addition to a community resource that has hosted community and social events, for adults and youngsters alike. The building was not eligible for state or federal historic listing due to its extensive alterations. Mayor Danielle DiPaola shared the sad news at the Oct. 19, 2021 meeting of the governing body: the DeBaun House was scheduled to be knocked down within weeks. (See “Timeʼs up for DeBaun House: Home served

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FROM PAGE 1

The last day of the Revolution-era Peter DeBaun House in Emerson, June 13, 2022. Efforts to preserve the site could not overcome the poor condition of the building that had served as meeting space for generations of Emersonians. The American Legion is building veterans housing and new meeting space on the site. John Snyder photo.

American Legion, generations of Emersonians,” Pascack Press, Nov. 6, 2021.) She called it “very unfortunate” and invited comment from then-Council President Kenneth Hoffman and Councilwoman Jill McGuire, both of whom were involved in preservation efforts. Hoffman said the building, one of Emersonʼs two oldest, dates to the original settlement of the

area. He said the DeBauns “were one of the founding families of this area before it actually became Emerson.” Hoffman said plans were for the county to preserve the structure. “So itʼs disappointing to me and itʼs disappointing that they didnʼt follow through with that intention. It is a loss for the town.” He said it was also a loss in terms of relics of the old Jersey

Emerson Historical chair Commission Phil Mazzo, who also is a firefighter, takes adavntage of a break in demolition to inspect the DeBaun House foundation. He turned up charred beams from an old fire. John Snyder photo.

Dutch community known as Old Hook and that the only such building left after DeBaun is gone will be the Old Hook Farm structure. “So itʼs with sadness I see this happening.” (The boroughʼs “The Peter DeBaun House: A History” explains, “The name itself derives from the Dutch word hoek, meaning ʻangleʼ or ʻcorner,ʼ and refers to the corner of land circumscribed by three connecting waterways: the

Workers’ lunch over, demolition pulls down the remainder of the venerable DeBaun House, June 13, 2022. John Snyder photo.

Musquapsink Brook, the Pascack Brook and the Hackensack River.”) In an email to Pascack Press, Hoffman said at the time the structure should have been saved. “I believe that the home could have been restored and preserved by the Housing Authority of Bergen County (HABC), which was their original intention when the application was approved for the veterans housing some years ago. The architectural firm that did the report for HABC said that the building could be restored for use CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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Is convenience killing the dental industry? Part one: Laser technology

I will never forget the first day I went for my training using what is referred to as a “laser.” Lasers are a new technology in denPRIYU GUPTA, DDS, tistry, utilized WESTWOOD for the purPERIODONTICS pose of performing gum

surgery, which is technically referred to as periodontal surgery. I attended that training course in lasers about 15 years ago, when I was a recent graduate from UMDNJ, now known as New Jersey School of Dentistry. I completed three years of additional surgical training, following dental school, in order to be a Board Certified Periodontist and Dental Implant Surgeon. The laser course I attended

back in 2007 was at the infamous Mortonʼs Steakhouse in NYC. The laser technology company provided an endless wine list and many delicacies. As the lecture began, one of the lecturing doctors approached me and stated, “Throw away your textbook, this is the new way to do surgery! What you learned in school is outdated.” I was shocked and confused—the only thought that circulated my mind was my stu-

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dent loan debt. As this person took the stage and began explaining how healing takes place using the laser, I especially recall the photo slides he used, which were all straight from my textbook, the one he so passionately told me to throw away. As the lecture delved deeper into the material, I realized that he is a general dentist. My confusion had left, leaving pure shock. Why is a general dentist telling me to throw away my textbook and then using the same material to lecture at me? I knew in that moment that I was not going to learn a single new thing from this experience, so my mind started drifting to gauge the enthusiasm of the crowd. “How can anyone be interested in such basic material?” I thought. My boredom evolved into anger when I realized that the entire room was filled with general dentists, all of whom were interested in the material he presented. As the lecture neared its end, the sales pitch of buying the $100,000 laser began. I was saddened by this experience, because what essentially was happening was this laser company was targeting general dentists, not dental surgeons, and they were presenting the basic sciences of surgery without showing one minutia of scientific evidence that the laser can get the job done with a high level of success.

This is a growing problem in dentistry, where the marketing of lasers has replaced real discussions on proof of efficacy, coupled with the idea that pointing a laser at the gum line instantly replaces the skillset of the hands holding the laser. Thatʼs in no way an attack on general dentists. However, the more this specific technology is promoted without any emphasis that gum surgery should remain specialized to surgeons, the more these productsʼ efficacy and long-term results never come into question. For patients who truly want the luxury of convenience by going to their general dentist for a “one stop shop” procedure, itʼs never that easy, and in laser technologyʼs case, itʼs rarely that painless, inexpensive, or effective, either. I continue to attend the laser lectures, waiting to see some scientific evidence. It has been 15 years and the marketers of laser technology have yet to prove themselves or publish a singular clinical trial which shows superior results to even a deep cleaning. Yet the ads continue specifically to those practitioners who are not trained in gum surgery. For more information, call Westwood Periodontics at (201) 664-3023 or visit us at 354 Old Hook Road #201 in Westwood or WestwoodPeriodontics.com.

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DeBaun: Venerable house gone by the Legion, despite the HABCʼs public statements to the contrary; the building isnʼt beyond repair and the foundation isnʼt crumbling,” Hoffman said. He added, “Based on a conversation I had with a construction expert, the estimate for restoration was overestimated, and I believe funding could have been acquired to save it. This is a great loss for the history of our town and the surrounding area, since such historic buildings are irreplaceable. Its demolition will be a sad day for Emerson.”

FROM PAGE 10

Witnesses at the end Phil Mazzo, chair of the Historic Preservation Commission and a firefighter surveys the DeBaun House amid a lull in demolition June 13, 2022. (John Sny-

der photo) On June 13, 2022, there was no fanfare for the site, as a lone dozer went to work, its pincers biting off substantial but well reasoned mouthfuls. The day was damp, with rain threatening. Ruby, from River Vale, said he was sad the building, across from Emerson Woods Preserve, was coming down. “Itʼs history. Itʼs American history. Iʼve got two granddaughters [ages 7 and 11] and they donʼt get this stuff in school. They donʼt really teach American history.” The Legionnaire, whoʼd served in the U.S. Army in Germany in the 1950s, said he looked forward to the new meeting space. “This was what we wanted. It couldnʼt be saved,” he said. Phil Mazzo, chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, and a firefighter, pulled up in a

white truck and took advantage of a lunchtime lull in the demolition — the two workers standing at the edge of the muck and eating their lunch out of clear plastic containers — to poke around in the oldest part of the former building. He took photos and pointed out charred beams from a fire long ago. “All the beams in the basement have fire damage,” he said. “Itʼs all rock, stone in the basement foundation, all cemented over,” he said. Approaching the oldest part of the building, he called out the difference in the foundation from its original site to when the building was expanded. “Back in the day they had the water main right through the middle of the building. Why it didnʼt freeze several times through the winters I donʼt know. But it never did,” he said. He disappeared down the

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Emerson and post officials said many efforts to preserve the Dutch-style building were attempted over the last several years but structural issues, mold, and widespread secondfloor damage caused by a plumbing leak — and dry rot found on the exterior — had made restoration too difficult. Michael Olohan/file photo. bulkhead steps, amid glass shards, moldy drywall, twisted wreckage, and the imminent final bites of the dozer, and called up his report about the stone at the foundation of the DeBaun House. “This is it! This is what they

built it on.” He called up more signs of old fire damage and admired the hand-placed stonework. Then he got out of the way as, lunch done, the demolition roared back to life.

‘Dine for Peace’ tricky tray for Ukraine

Help the Paskack Junior Womanʼs Club Support the people of Ukraine. Join them at Dine for Peace, a dinner and tricky tray fundraiser. The invitation reads, “Enjoy a four-course dinner, wine, and beer while bidding on an array of amazing prizes, which include hotel stays, dinners at top-rated restaurants, high-end jewelry, baskets of goodies, and gift certificates to spas, salons, stores, and more.” Proceeds will go to Hope for Ukraine, which provides food, medical care, and other support to

the people of Ukraine. The event is Thursday, June 23 from 7 to 10 p.m. at 208 Pier-

mont Road, Closter. For more information and tickets, visit https://paskackjuniors.org/dine-forpeace.

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY IN THE PASCACK PRESS.

$82.5M: School referendum approved for 2023

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The April 11 meeting was when architect DiCara Rubino, and Lombardy, revealed cost estimates and fully explained each option. (See “George G. White estimates in,” Pascack Press online, April 16, 2022.) Svorec urged all residents to never hesitate to ask questions and to vote in the referendum, no matter what way theyʼre going to vote. “Itʼs up to us to communicate with the residents that this building needs attention,” said Svorec, noting any of the three renovation options would “be putting Band-Aids on the issue.” When one resident questioned whether all options were considered, including moving fifth graders back to the two elementary schools, Svorec said those were considered. Several residents pressed trustees to explain the reasoning and planning that supports their decision to build a completely new middle school. One resident wondered, “Gee whiz, is there another way to do this?” Another suggested that the board should put together a frequently asked questions section on its website for the referendum. Svorec promised the board would be “pumping out more information” as the referendum process moves along. Several residents questioned

what possible impacts, including flooding, might occur with the new school being built across from its present location, an area apparently prone to a high water table and occasional flooding. Others questioned how much inflation might impact final project costs and taxes. Should a referendum pass, Lombardy previously said he anticipated the replacement project to get underway in mid-2024, with property taxes likely to increase in 2024-2025. While most renovation options provided little or no new classroom space, all required current middle school students to spend 18–24 months housed in trailers across the street from the current middle school while renovations are completed on the middle school. The estimated cost to house students in trailers is $3.7 to $4 million, said officials. At public meetings, Lombardy had offered a detailed explanation of the four options, three for onsite renovations and one complete replacement. The onsite renovation options started at $25 million, which included renovation to the existing middle school with no additions; $52 million to renovate and add on and use the current gym; and $60 million to renovate, add on classrooms and include a

larger gymnasium in the current facility. Annual average taxpayer costs for the proposed renovationsʼ bonding break out as follows: $25 million will cost $408 yearly or $24 monthly; $52 million will cost $845 yearly or $60 per month; and $60 million will cost $937, or about $70 per month, Lombardy said. None of those options will be on the ballot; registered voters

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will vote yes or no on spending $82.5 million for a new middle school replacement. Previously, Lombardy stressed that all three renovation options would require student classrooms to be housed for 18 to 24 months in modular trailer units across from the existing middle school, a situation that would likely harm studentsʼ educational experience.

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information about the referendum, specifically dinging the board for not putting the architectʼs detailed presentation online for more residents to view. The presentation addressed the three renovation scenarios and replacement, total costs and bonding costs, and explained what each included. Pascack Press requested a copy of the presentation — and received it — after also questioned why it was not put on the district website. After the meeting, Lombardy said the presentation would appear online soon, likely as part of a school referendum website, and more information would be provided on the referendum through the fall and winter. Multiple residents said they had requested the presentation via OPRA, but had not received it from the district. The options included three renovation options and a full replacement option. At the May 9 board meeting, all trustees publicly supported the $82.5 million full replacement option. Trustees and the district administration have been discussing the possible referendum, and lesser-priced renovation options ranging from $25 million, $52 million, and $60 million, before the public since April 11.

FROM PAGE 3

Letters:

by previously unseen challenges, reiterations in the face of relaxed pandemic restrictions, and changing economic climates. While the evening of the event was unseasonably hot, it was marked with good spirits and raucous laughter, as 219 attendees bid on 332 tricky tray prizes and big ticket items energetically auctioned by MC Michael Meisten. Thanks to Lucaʼs Gourmet Deli and Catering for their delicious spread and to the Flynnʼs ice cream truck for providing cold treats to conclude the evening. We thank all of our ticket holders for their attendance, enthusiasm, and generosity. We are grateful to all our sponsors, donors, and participants for your continued support. Have a wonderful summer! Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center Fundraising Committee

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY IN THE PASCACK PRESS.

Press Veolia on flood obligations To the editor: your reporting on the recent flooding T in Westwood and surrounding HANK YOU FOR

communities. As a longtime resident of Westwood, having experienced flooding over the course of many years, my perspective is simple. The Pascack Brook, which travels through several towns, is not sufficient enough in size and capacity to effectively handle the the volume of water released by Veolia (formerly Suez, United Water, Hackensack Water Co.) often during a storm but most recently afterwards. Also take into consideration the additional volume of runoff from rain events and the precipitation itself going into the Pascack Brook and further affecting its capacity to handle the volume. The U.S. Army Corps of

Engineers has conducted studies, proposing actions that would diminish flooding, one of which is to desilt and desnag the brook of obstructions to its flow, i.e., fallen trees, branches, garbage, shopping carts, etc. That solution unfortunately adds prohibitive costs to individual towns to obtain NJDEP permits as well as the massive effort undertaken to gain permission and access from residents whose properties line the Pascack Brook. There are additional costs associated with needed manpower/labor, construction equipment, disposal of trash or silt removed and risk of liability to perform the work for the miles of the brook that needs cleaning. The NJDEP should waive these permit costs for the municipalities. The burden of flooded properties and homes including repairs and cleanup expenses, risk of injury, illness or death to residents and first responders, exorbitant flood insurance premiums, possible temporary housing for severely damaged homes, is for the most part placed squarely on the shoulders of the homeowner. Home-

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ownersʼ hands are tied due to regulations imposed by high flood insurance deductibles and claim reporting requirements, bank/mortgage requirements to carry insurance and losses incurred from non-covered items or depreciation. Yet the responsible party is not held accountable time and time again. This has to change. In the case of the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir, whose capacity is minor compared to Veoliaʼs other reservoirs in its system, every effort is made by Veolia to hold onto every drop of their water asset, while disregarding its effect on communities whenever they release water during a rain event. They deny responsibility stating their operations are dictated by NJDEP as a water supply reservoir. That their product is at risk during a drought — for the record the Woodcliff Lake reservoir water levels were kept to a minimum for more than a year during its renovation of the dam in 2014–2015 while having no effect on its water supply to communities. Let Veolia invest in infrastructure and build/install underground pipes to transport their water asset. Let Veolia share in the responsibility of keeping the Pascack Brook clean. Require Veolia to perform operations as a flood control reservoir along with other reservoirs throughout the State of New Jersey, whose communities are subjected to flooding. Pass NJ Senate bill S-790 and NJ Assembly bill A-4200 to draw down reservoir levels in advance of severe weather forecasts. Gov. Murphy should immediately issue an order to the NJDEP requiring the water level be lowered by Veolia from 95 feet to 91 feet. These actions will most likely minimize the flooding and bring relief to homeowners. Frances Yates Westwood Sound off! See Letters guidelines, page 2

201.730.SOIL

Veolia should set smart limits To the editor: : “A : Relief possible R for Westwood–Hillsdale flooding,” News, June 6, and LetE

RROYO

ters June 6 and 13: S uez/Veolia: new name, same mantra: We are in the water supply business, not the flood management business. Why is it that a company that does not own a commodity (the rain, supplied by Mother Nature) transports this commodity along conduits (the Pasack Brook among others) connecting the companyʼs reservoirs (Woodcliff Lake to Oradell, e.g.) yet this company claims no responsibility for the condition and maintenance of said conduits? And in answer to requests from residents and local politicians to keep the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir at a lower level yearround and to release some water in advance of major storms, the mantra is repeated. Yet Suez/Veolia conveniently forgets that when the Woodcliff Lake dam was being renovated (about 2004 to 2006), the water level in the reservoir was a mere stream just trickling along. Deer were frequently spotted munching on the shrubs that grew up in the reservoirʼs bed during the twoyear project. Yet, Suez/Veolia customers never lacked for water and were never asked to conserve water. My parents purchased this house in 1975 — their first after more than 30 years of renting — from a little old German couple who, when asked about possible flooding, responded that Oh, it might just come over the bank a little bit. And for a while, it did. It was amusing to see a crawfish swimming on the lawn. I found out many years later that prior to 1975, this couple once had to be evacuated by boat, CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

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something.” Trustee Roberta Hanlon said she could help Sembler with such a letter, noting the letter requesting school security funding might also be sent to the state school boards association to solicit the support of other school districts statewide for such an effort.

FROM PAGE 7

“We need help with finances for school security. Is there a way to get the two more Class III officers,” Sembler asked. Former trustee Tommy Snee requested that 1,100 parents join with him in donating $100 toward funding the salaries of two extra SLEO IIIs, although officials said they were not sure that type of fundraising effort was appropriate or

legal for a district-hired employee. In addition to funding for enhanced school security and more SLEO IIIs, other trustees focused on making available more innovative mental health outreach and services to reach troubled students. Trustee Kristin Pedersen said incidents such as the Uvalde massacre “are truly heartbreaking” and said she agreed that more mental

Yale earns Cheryl J. Todd scholarship

WESTWOOD

Congratulations to Emma R. Yale of Westwood, who was recently awarded a $1,000 Cheryl J. Todd Memorial Community Service Scholarship. The scholarship is given in memory of Cheryl Todd, a founding member of the Westwood Heritage Society and a longtime Borough of Westwood historian. Yale is a 2022 graduate of The Academy of Holy Angels, has volunteered at Westwood Heritage Society events for many years, and has volunteered at Westwood Houseʼs Thomas J. Riley Senior Center and at the Pascack Historical Society. “As a result of her volunteering activities, Ms. Yale developed a deep pride in the community spirit of Westwood and appreciated the opportunity that she had been given to be involved in maintaining the history and heritage of her hometown,” Westwood Heritage Society told Pascack Press on June 8.

health services should be available for kids before something bad happens. She urged trustees to “spend some more time here to figure out what can be done.” Member Andrea Peck noted that often trustees vote on imposing violations for (HIB) harassment, intimidation and bullying to the same individuals and urged more “outside the box thinking” on how to reach such individuals to stop the HIB cycle. “We need to provide for them. We have to be a bigger voice for our children who are struggling and who are hurting,” Peck said. Trustee Maureen Colombo said the district might lean on its CarePlus partnership to help facilitate conversations with individuals dealing with emotional and mental difficulties. She said by reaching out to individuals in distress, the district may be able to prevent a tragedy and help keep students safe. Trustee Stacey Price said mental health programs that involve both

the child and parent could be beneficial “where the parent and child could be working together more.” She said this would allow the parents “to be more present” with their children. Resident Doug Sloan said he favored “armed security” in place at every district school, noting that it “was not worth the risk” to go without armed guards at each school. He said taxpayers were “more than willing to pay the cost” for armed security at every school. Resident Irene Fenargian pointed out that some security vulnerabilities existed during Covid, noting that windows were kept open to enhance air circulation, and often schools were accessible via a playground or driveway. She said having two more officers at elementary schools so all schools were covered was “a simple ask that can be done.” Resident Eleneth Reyes said she felt the district needed better communication and transparency with parents.

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More: Calls on security funds, officers at WWRSD

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Dining & Cooking Guide

Supt. Mortimer on WWRSD at school year’s end

Superintendent of Schools Jill Mortimer wrote families in the township and in Westwood on June 15 with several updates. We are reprinting the message as a public service.

E DID IT! The end of the school year is in sight, and all is well. I wrote to you at the beginning of the school year about the fact that we can do hard things. I am so proud of all of the Districtʼs staff and students for showing resilience and fortitude. Your efforts are both recognized and appreciated. Please thank your studentsʼ staff members and administrators for their efforts this year. A handwritten note goes a long way. I treasure the ones I have received, and they have a special spot on my bookshelf. I reread them for inspiration on occasion. Here are the updates I have for you before everyone goes their separate ways for the summer:

Summer Assignment Site Here is a link to our summer assignment website. Please make sure you review it with your child.

Special Law Enforcement Officers (SLEO) While I appreciate the support the board has shown me regarding the original budget proposal I made, I am now planning to have a SLEO

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

JULIA SCOTTI AND FRIENDS JUNE 25

Save the date for Julia Scotti and Friends at The Comedy Corner, June 25 at 9 p.m. at Township Theatre, 249 Pascack Road. The event is by J. Irwin Productions. The evening stars Scotti, the headlining transgender comedian who brought down the house on “Americaʼs Got Talent.” Sheʼs been featured on Showtimeʼs “More Funny Women of a Certain Age” and headlines comedy clubs, theaters and other venues around the country. The evening open swith a screening of the documentary Julia Scotti: Funny That Way,” directed by Susan Sandler. That leads into a main event you wonʼt want to miss, which closes with a Q&A with Scotti and Sandler hosted by Bergen Record humor columnist Bill Ervolino. The evening is hosted by Anthony Torres, founder of BCLA Bergen County LGBTQ+ Alliance. Tickets are $35. Get yours now by v i s i t i n g brownpapertickets.com/event/5388131 . Group rates are available. Connect with Jack Hoffman at (201) 7455837 or Jack@jirwinproductions.com.

in each of our six schools. Your most precious assets are in our schools, and that is a responsibility we do not take lightly. Unfortunately, MORTIMER we have had several behavioral disruptions this year that have required a significant amount of response time and effort on the part of our staff. We are well aware of the connection between mental health and some of these acts. The SLEO we have at the high school has done a wonderful job forming positive relationships with students. I see him fist bumping students outside of the cafeteria, and he epitomizes the exact relationship we want the officers to have with our students. While I do not believe an officer in each school can prevent everything bad from happening, I do believe they are one piece of a multifaceted strategy that we need to continue to develop. The funding for the two additional officers will come from the appropriation of surplus of $170,978. A portion of this cost represents start-up costs that will not be replicated in subsequent years.

1972

Coupled with the SLEOs, I intend to put a Threat Assessment Team in place for the 2022–2023 school year. This multidisciplinary team will work to identify threats, as research indicates there are usually some warning signs prior to a violent event in a school. Weʼll institute a reporting mechanism so students can feel safe relaying concerning information. The team will ensure that students who need attention will get it.

Strategic Planning Consultant Dr. Tracey Severns will conduct strategic planning in the District during the 2022-2023 school year. She will help us craft a three-year plan that will shape our collective future. There will be an opportunity for parental input, so please take advantage of it. Administrative Retreat This summer, we will utilize grant funding to train the Administrative Team on reunification practices in the event we need to relocate students due to an emergency. This is yet another step in our desire to proactively plan for and address situations we may face. New Administrative Hires Both Dr. Courtney Carmichael (Director of Elementary Education)

50th An niver Thank you f sar y r om the H or s e F

2022

through the end of December. Dr. Schoenlank worked for the Ridgewood Public Schools from 1985 to 2021. When she retired, she had been the Principal of the Ridge Elementary School for 15 years. CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

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and Ms. Bronwen Calderon (Director of Secondary Education) will start in the District on July 1. Moreover, we have the approval of two new principals on the agenda for Thursday nightʼs BoE meeting. Dr. Jean Schoenlank will be the leave replacement at Washington School

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Dining & Cooking Guide

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Organizers add, “We will feature some of our favorite vendors including Clydeʼs Homemade Italian Ices, Picklelicious, Pie Eyed Bar Pies, the Empanada Lady, Buon Antipasto, Eat My Balls food

truck, Kimchi Smoke, Strawberry Lembeck Jewelry, Knot of This World Pretzels, Sawdust Unlimited, Voyager Espresso, The Pampered Chef and The Body Shop.” The invitation says, “Some of our new vendors will be fullor part-time or a guest. We will try our best to have knife sharpening, nutritionist days, balloon creations by Balloon Chica, storytime and crafts, music, pet adoptions, and blood drives, etc., weather permitting.” To learn when these special events will take place and for an updated list of weekly vendors, visit rivervalenj.org and check out River Vale Farmerʼs Market Facebook page. Also: “River Vale Farmersʼ Market Cookbook” Vol. 1 is for sale at Town Hall for $8.

Pascack Press

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

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FROM PAGE 16

when Pascack Brook floodwaters flowed into the back door and out the front door. My first major flood here was 24 years after 1975; the second 12 years after that; the third 10 years after that. Too much over-development — of course. Climate change — definitely. So when will the next major flood come? Why do I stay? When the brook “behaves,” this is one of the loveliest and most overlooked areas in Westwood. I have a perennial and shrub garden that I have developed over more than 30 years. I have a yard for a dog, which I never did have as a child. and I have the most wonderful neighbors. What more could I ask? That Suez/Veolia steps up to be a

Magnolia Bridge Update To the editor: [J 14] I visited the Magnolia Bridge construcT tion site and spoke to our on-site ODAY

UNE

Hillsdale mayor on transparency To the editor: H C , T with the exception of Councilman Horváth, refused at its HE

ILLSDALE

OUNCIL

meeting of June 14 to consider R22136, which would have enhanced the transparency of its decision-making during public meetings. I was implored by several councilmembers not to introduce this resolution. Elected officials should be held accountable for the actions

engineer about the status. It seems they have accelerated the progress after a brief setback because of an issue with the footings, and still on track for late September/early October. For those living around the bridge area, please be patient with the detours, and be safe. Thanks, Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali To residents

that they take in public meetings and should make it possible for residents to know in advance what they are voting on. Yet there are many municipalities like Hillsdale that vote on resolutions that refer to agreements without disclosing those agreements until after the council takes actions. Not only is this contrary to “good government,” it is inefficient, as it forces the public to make requests under the Open Public Records Act (“OPRA”) for that information. I wrote to the New Jersey Government Records Council on Nov. 3, 2021 explaining my reasons why I thought this was a bad practice. I gave them 16 examples of where the borough had passed resolutions without first sharing the underlying agreements, denying the public the right to question their officials in a public comment period prior to the vote. They included a conditional redevelop-

ment agreement, various employment agreements for borough personnel, a proposal for a train station feasibility study, agreements with utility companies, collective bargaining agreements, and feasibility studies of Centennial Field and a community center. Virtually all of these matters had been discussed and agreed upon by the council in earlier closed sessions. That same month I also raised the issue with a panel of attorneys at a public seminar sponsored by NJLM [New Jersey League of Municipalities]. I learned that this practice of denying information to the public was taking place around the state since many municipalities were automatically applying in blanket fashion a certain exemption contained in OPRA that treated agreements coming before council for a vote as drafts or works in progress. They acknowledged it

was legal, but raised questions about why elected officials would routinely do this. There is no requirement that municipalities apply that particular OPRA standard. Municipalities are free to adopt other reasonable standards or make exceptions to the blanket application of the “draft” standard. On Feb. 15, the GRC responded in a letter saying that the issue was not a proper one for its guidance. They referred me to a decision by the courts that initially supported my view of more transparency, but which was subsequently overturned because the appellate judge didnʼt believe that he had the freedom to deviate from how the term “agenda” was defined by the Legislature 47 years ago when the Open CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

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JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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University. Heʼs active in DECA, Interact Club, National Honor Society, lacrosse, and football. The Terumo Americas Holding ROCK Inc. Scholarship Program provides scholarships to sons and daughters of Terumo Medical Corporation associates who are enrolled or planning to enroll full-time in a college, university, or technical school program. The recipients are chosen competitively on the basis of their academic record and personal achievements. • Dr. Melissa Rock of Emerson, daughter of Darrell and Rosemarie Rock, also of Emerson, received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree and a masterʼs of health science degree in clinical research administration from the Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Florham Park. The 2015 Emerson Jr./Sr. High School valedictorian earned a bachelorʼs degree in biochemistry from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2019. She received the 2021–2022 Lead Award from the FDU School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and was initiated into The Rho Chi Pharmaceutical

Honor Society. Rock is pursuing a career in clinical pharmacy and has been accepted into the PGY-1 pharmacy residency at The Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. • James Madison University is pleased to announce the following local students graduated during the May 2022 commencement exercises: Michael Walsh of Montvale, bachelorʼs degree in general psychology; Gianna Lucido of Montvale, bachelorʼs degree in health sciences; Erik Zeltner of Township of Washington, bachelorʼs degree in accounting; Annaliese Gandet, Westwood, magna cum laude, bachelorʼs degree in general psychology; Shaina Woodward, Westwood, magna cum laude, bachelorʼs degree in kinesiology; Mia Taveroni, Township of Washington, magna cum laude, bachelorʼs degree in health sciences; and Andrew Sklavounos, Township of Washington, summa cum laude, bachelorʼs degree in engineering. Founded in 1908, James Madison University is a public university in Virginiaʼs Shenandoah Valley. • Students at Lehigh University attaining Deanʼs List in spring 2022 include Kathleen Gifford of Hillsdale, Matias Mancheno of Park Ridge, Sofia Ricco of River Vale, Oren Roznitsky of Hillsdale, Jacob

Saks of Woodcliff Lake, and Ryan Saks of Woodcliff Lake. • The College of Charleston awarded undergraduate and graduate degrees during Spring 2022 Commencement ceremonies. Olivia Tavani, Township of Washington, cum laude, B.S. in marketing. Lindsay Rohde, Hillsdale, B.S., marketing. Lisa Heytink, Hillsdale, Certificate in English to Speakers of Other Languages. Emma Simmons, Township of Washington, cum laude, B.A., theatre. Located in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina, the College of Charleston is a nationally recognized public liberal arts and sciences university. • This yearʼs commencement at the University of Vermont marked a return to a traditional celebration outdoors on the University Green after two years of re-imagined ceremonies due to pandemic restrictions. Kaitlin Fass, Woodcliff Lake, B.A. and B.S. in Chinese and business administration. Rebecca Winokur, Montvale, B.S. in health sciences. Samantha Latteri, River Vale, M.S., communication sciences and disorders. • Jeff Roberts of River Vale is one of 111 University of CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

WHAT IS LONG-TERM CARE, AND HOW CAN YOU PLAN FOR IT FINANCIALLY?

What is longterm care? It is the services needed to help you if a chronic illness or disability stops you from living on your own or ERIC KOHLMEIER performing daily personal activities such as getting dressed, taking medicine, or making meals. Planning for long-term care is a serious issue: seven out of 10 adults who survive to age 65 develop severe long-term services and support needs, according to a 2019 study published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Lauree Peterson-Sakai, senior vice president of Aging Client Services at Wells Fargo, says there are four considerations everyone should keep in mind as they develop a longterm care plan: Know the different levels of care and their costs

Aging in place often refers to services being delivered to you in your home and can include aid rendered by visiting nurses, family and friends. It can also mean living in a continuing care community that has different facilities, each providing increasing levels of care. Y o u move into the facility that matches the level of care you need and move to higher levels of care as you require them. The benefit of residing in such a community is that you “age in place” as you progress through the facilities that offer the level of care you need. It can be comforting to know that you will not need to seek a new care facility each time your care requirements change. You just progress through the stages within the same community. An assisted living facility is often a residence that provides staff who can assist with daily needs (showering, dressing, taking medications). Moving into assisted living may also add a level of security

knowing that you are not alone if a fall or a health event occurs. Skilled care refers to a residential facility (or nursing home) that includes on-site medical care. These facilities often include short-term rehabilitation services following a hospital stay as well as 24-hour nursing care for full-time residents who require extensive assistance and supervision. Memory care units may also be provided in these facilities for residents with cognitive challenges such as Alzheimerʼs who require the most extreme level of supervision and care. As you would expect, the associated costs for care increase with the complexity of the level of care. 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,

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Solidify your plan sooner, not later You might not need long-term care services until later in life, but consider planning well in advance. You donʼt want to be developing a plan to pay for these services after you already need them.

Discuss how you want to be looked after with loved ones It is important for you to communicate your wishes so that they can be understood and considered. Though you may assume your adult children are going to care for and support you if the need for long-term care arises, you should find out whether that is the case by speaking to them directly. Consider working together to create an action plan that supports your needs. Consider how youʼll pay for long-term care

Health insurance and government programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare, impose restrictions and limits when it comes to paying for long-term care. That means you may need to incorporate other approaches into your plan such as liquidating assets, paying out of pocket, relying on a family member to pay, or purchasing long-term care insurance. Peterson-Sakai says you should discuss all possible choices thoroughly with your legal and financial advisors. Insurance products are offered through non-bank insurance agency affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company and are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies. Wells Fargo Advisors is not a legal or tax advisor. 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.

PASCACK VALLEY

Concerts, movies, more in Veterans Park

Summer 2022 is heating up with classes, camps, concerts, movies and other community events offered by the Westwood Recreation Department. Regisration is underway for summer classes including tennis for kids and soccer and sports squirts classes for preschoolers. Adults can register for tennis and outdoor yoga classes. Kids can look forward to the Summer Specialty Camps starting Aug. 8 including Golf and Tennis Camps with TGA, Multisports Camp with USA Sports Group,

Robot Camp and Pre-teen Business Bonanza Camp with Minds in Motion and Theatre Camp with drama coach Krista Reagan. Spaces are limited for all specialty camps. This yearʼs Summer Concert Series kicks off with Tequila Rose (country) on June 23, followed by Danny V (Billy Joel) on June 30, The Wag (Beatles) on July 7, Reminisce (oldies) on July 14, Soul Groove (R&B/Pop) on July 21 and Tramps Like Us (Springsteen) on July 28. Concerts are free and are spon-

sored by Lightbridge Academy, Howard Hanna Rand Realty, Lakeland Bank Westwood and Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical Center. The Movies in the Park line-up includes “Meet the Robinsons” on Aug. 4, “Aladdin” on Aug. 11, “Bend it Like Beckham” on Aug. 18 and “The Goonies” on Aug. 25. All concerts and movies are held on Thursday evenings at 8 in Veterans Park. Residents and neighbors are reminded to bring chairs and blankets for park events.

Movies are free, include popcorn and are sponsored by Visions Federal Credit Union, CareOne at Valley, Lipkin Orthodontics and Westwood Family Chiropractic. The Westwood Recreation Department is also pleased to be able to host The Westwood Community Band on Fridays (7 p.m.) and Sundays (2 p.m.) in July (follow them on Facebook for concert updates). In addition, the Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra will play on Sunday, July 10 at 4 p.m. and The

Ramsey Wind Symphony will play on Tuesday, July 12 at 7 p.m. All concerts take place in Veterans Memorial Park and event details will be posted at facebook.com/westwoodnjrec. To register for classes and camps using Community Pass, go to register.communitypass.net/westwood. To learn more about programs and special events visit the Recreation Page at westwoodnj.gov, call (201) 664-7882 or follow the department on social media @westwoodnjrec.

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EMERSON

Superintendent’s update, in home stretch of academic year

President Ann Pressimone and the entire Emerson Board of Education, it is the districtʼs hope that our students, teachers, and all district families are having a great week of school. It is hard to believe that the last school day of the 2021-2022 academic year is a week from today. N BEHALF OF

Comprehensive Health and Phys. Ed. (CHPE) Thank you to the parents and community members who joined us last Wednesday night to offer their comments on the draft CHPE curriculum. Thank you also to those who offered their thoughts prior to the meeting following the

initial sharing of the draft documents. On that note, and as shared during last weekʼs meeting, please see the following: GATENS • Per the state timeline, the final version of the CHPE curriculum has to be approved by the Board of Education prior to the start of the 2022–2023 school year. Various Pascack Valley districts, including Emerson, continue to share resources, information, and opt-out forms/procedures with each other. The district will not be taking any action during the June Board of Education meetings to allow the necessary time to make edits based on community input and consultation with colleague districts.

who left comments during last weekʼs session. The district has made it a point to reach out and follow up as necessary. • Please note, contrary to some public confusion, that the opt-out provision has always been a choice as outlined in this letter. This document is sent home every August as part of the districtʼs Welcome Back email. The updated opt-out procedures, including instruction for those who opt out, will be sent home in early August.

• The draft curriculum is in the process of being updated and the next version will be shared with the community in the first week of July. Thank you to those

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Budget eyes $233 tax hit; hearing July 11

The Borough Council introduced a nearly $15 million 20222023 municipal budget on June 6 that increases expenses $828,316 over 2021-2022 and ups an average homeownerʼs taxes by $233 yearly. The introduction was approved 5-0. Councilwoman Angela Hayes was absent. A budget public hearing will be held July 11 at 7 p.m. in council chambers and on Zoom. The borough auditor will provide a budget analysis then, said the townʼs business administrator, Tom Padilla. Padilla said the boroughʼs average assessed home is

$793,230. The total 2022-2023 budget was $14,936,170 vs. $14,107,854 in 2021. The local tax levy increased to $11,408,830 versus $10,777,342 in 2021. Padilla attributed most of the budgetʼs increase to contractually mandated salary cost steps in the police department and public works department, increases in group insurance plans and employee pensions, an increase in the recreation department budget, and a slight increase in funds for tax appeals. The Budget Committee included Mayor Carlos Rendo, Councilman Steven Falanga,

Council President Jacqueline Gadaleta, CFO Jonathan DeJoseph, and borough auditor Paul Lerch. A copy of the budget was scheduled for publication in The Record on June 10. Also, the budget is available on the borough website. Click on the Government drop-down menu and choose Audit and Budget Information, then 2022, to access the full budget and budget summary. Copies of the budget are available in the office of the Borough Clerk at the Municipal Building, 188 Pascack Road, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Staff writer Michael Olohan

NJSBA School Board Meeting Information Brochure The New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA) recently published a Guide to Board of Education meetings. This public-facing document offers an overview of Board of Education meetings and how they function. [Youʼll find the document at njsba.org.]

The Class of 2022 One week from today we will celebrate the graduation of the Emerson Junior-Senior High School Class of 2022. Time and time again, these students have shown themselves to be hardworking, caring, and high-performing students. We will miss them very much. Our 75-plus 12th-graders have been accepted to 143 different colleges and universities, and we wish them luck as they head off to their post-secondary studies, career apprenticeships, or military service. All community members are encouraged to spare a kind thought for this wonderful group of students.

Construction The districtʼs ongoing construction at Emerson JuniorSenior High School is slated to be completed well in advance of the start of the 2022-2023 school year. We are especially pleased with not only the quality of our new science laboratories but also the aesthetically pleasing front entrance. With the culmination of these respective projects, we will have met the goals of the successful district referendum. Thank you to all for your support. Summer Camp Once again we are excited to offer the Emerson Community School Summer Camp to our community. Please follow this link to see a wide range of offerings across many activities, sports, and other opportunities. Note that space is limited and we don't want to see anyone miss out on this wonderful opportunity.

Interested in being a substitute Teacher or substitute nurse? The well-documented and nationwide shortage of workers, including those needed in schools, has impacted all districts in Bergen County. We are always in need of additional substitute teachers and nurses and all are encouraged to consider applying. You can follow this direct link to learn more about the substitute application process. Gatens also reminded families about Emersonʼs Enchanted Forest, which ran Friday, June 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. behind the Board of Education office. He signed off, “We will always be here.”

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JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Superintendent of Schools Brian P. Gatens wrote families on June 15 with several updates. We are reprinting the message as a public service.

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide ADVERTISER CONTENT

DR. KAPLAN: Tips for weight loss (diets don’t work)

Excess weight, especially obesity, diminishes almost every aspect of health, including mood, energy, sleep, stress, respiration, heart funcDR. ERIC KAPLAN, tion, memory, KAPLAN BRAIN & reproductive BODY health, diabetes, liver function, cardiovascular health, pain, and even some cancers. Additionally, Covid is still very much around, and the most common comorbidity that leads to a bad outcome is obesity. If you want to live a healthier life, prevent chronic disease, feel better, look better, reduce stress, and lose weight, you must change bad habits and create a healthier daily routine. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It is always recommended to get to the root cause of your health problem rather than just treating symptoms. There are many diets and fads that claim they can help you to lose weight. However, the problem is that diets donʼt work. After people lose their desired weight, they go back to eating normally and will

typically gain the weight back, and sometimes even more. In my opinion, it is not about going on a diet, it is about making certain lifestyle changes that can help you lose weight and keep the weight off permanently! The first lifestyle change is to stop having meals or snacks late at night. After 6 pm, you should not be eating anymore, and should only be drinking water. At night, people are usually not very active. They are sitting on the couch watching tv, scrolling through social media, searching the internet, or reading a book. These activities are not big calorie burners and will slow down your metabolism. Having a late dinner or snack results in having food just sitting in your digestive tract and not getting digested properly. I also recommend taking a nice 30 minute walk after you finish your early dinner, rather than going to the couch to watch the news or Netflix. The second lifestyle change is to stop eating so many grains, carbohydrates, sugars, juices, coffee, alcohol, soda, starches, and processed foods. Instead of pasta, start having spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Also, try replacing your rice

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with cauliflower rice. Did you know that you can make pancakes using just eggs and bananas as the only two ingredients. You can substitute wheat wraps or tortillas with lettuce wraps. You can have turkey sandwiches but instead of using a bun, use two slices of a red pepper and put the meat in the middle. You can mimic mashed potatoes by using carrots, cauliflower or peas. I also like to use sliced cucumbers like crackers or cut it the long way and use it as a hero roll. Have carrots or apple slices instead of chips or french fries. For dessert or a snack, freeze organic berries, bananas, mangos, or other fruit and mix it with some almond butter so you can make healthy “ice cream” with no dairy products and no sugar, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, food dyes, natural flavors, gums, or other toxic ingredients found in conventional ice cream. These techniques are not that hard but will lead to immediate weight loss. The third lifestyle change is to reduce physical, chemical, and emotional stress. When you are stressed, a hormone called cortisol is released which leads to fat deposits around the waist. A sedentary lifestyle will lead to an increase in stress. If a typical day is you usually work at a computer, eat a big dinner, watch tv, and then go to bed, that is a recipe for weight gain. Start doing activities that make you more active and require you to move the body. One of the best ways to reduce stress is to go on many vacations. If you only have two weeks of paid vacation, then take lots of little mini vacations. For example, you can take off Thursday and Friday and take a total of five four-day vacations. And do not waste it when you get an extra day off for national hol-

idays. Besides taking a break and going on vacations, you might also have to get out of a bad relationship, quit a high stress job, or move out of a stressful living situation. It might be a major lifestyle change that you have to do, or it may be little changes that are easy to implement. For example, waking up 20 minutes earlier to work out or meditate in the morning can make a huge difference. Another thing I also recommend is to stop watching the news at night and scrolling through social media. The news and social media are full of negative and stressful stories like fires, criminal activities, natural disasters, terrorism, diseases, racism, sexism, political corruption, sufferage, starvation, floods, hurricanes, tornados, droughts, poverty, and police brutality. If stress reduction was the only thing you did, you could actually lose weight quickly. The last lifestyle change that is important for weight loss is to stop using electronics at night. Most people are sitting all day long at the computer, and then come home to eat a late dinner and sit on the couch to watch TV or play on the computer or cell phone. These electronics have a harmful blue light which can not only increase cortisol, but confuse the brain into thinking it's not really night time. This will interrupt your circadian rhythms which can lead to difficulty in weight loss, as well as difficulty sleeping. For immediate weight loss, it is important to go to bed by 10 p.m. at the latest, and have absolutely no food for the four hours before you go to sleep. This will help break down fat, improve digestion and reduce cortisol activation at night. So just like we do not want to eat past 6 p.m., it is equally important

to avoid electronics after 6 p.m. as well. My last bit of advice is to not stress over weight loss. That will work against your goal. Don't weigh yourself everyday and do not obsess over the scale. The less stress in your life, the quicker the weight loss. In my opinion, it is best not to do any diets, but to change your lifestyle. Start exercising more, eating healthier, drinking more water, going to bed earlier, building better relationships, giving more to charity, spending more time outside in nature and getting more sunlight. If you function better, you will feel better, and the fat will come off much quicker. If you follow these simple rules, you will be healthy. When you are healthier, the weight comes off naturally and most importantly, safely. Do not count calories, points, or pounds. This can aggravate or lead to eating disorders like bulimia, anorexia, and body dimorphism. The best time to start this process is immediately. Do not wait until Monday or until you finish your bad food. Go grocery shopping today and give away your old food to a charity or a food pantry. If you are interested in my healthy six-week stress reduction and weight loss program (includes lifestyle changes, foods to avoid, foods to eat, food diary, food calendar, recipes, accountability session, supplements, exercise program, sleep program, stress reduction program, brain training program, and many other benefits), please contact me at info@kaplanbrainandbody.com or call me at (201) 251-2160 and set up a consult. If you mention this article, you will get this first visit completely FREE.

Unanimous council resolution backs lower reservoir levels HILLSDALE

Several residents from local neighborhoods facing increased flooding due to recent storms — even small rain events — appealed to Borough Council members at the June 14 meeting for assistance and help to mitigate the flooding from Pascack Brook. Council members, led by president Janetta Trochimiuk, and Mayor John Ruocco listened to three residents talk about flood concerns and impacts during recent Memorial Day and June 2 rain events, which caused flooding in their Beechwood Drive neighborhood. Later that night, the council unanimously approved a resolution calling on a state environmental agency to require reservoir owners — such as Veolia Water

RUOCCO

TROCHIMIUK

Co. that operates Woodcliff Lake Reservoir — to lower reservoir levels and “implement certain flood control measures.” The resolution supports legislation introduced in the state Assembly (A-4200) and Senate (S-790) that requires the state DEP create rules and authorize the state Office of Emergency Management “to order lowering of reservoir levels in response to severe weather events.” The resolution is an effort promoted by the Pascack Valley Mayors Association to pressure

the state Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), which oversees the state water supply, to require Veolia to implement flood control measures by releasing water ahead of a major storm. This action may help to lower overall reservoir water levels to accommodate more rainfall from smaller storms before the need to release it, which may cause flooding in downstream communities. Currently, reservoir owners are not required to manage water supplies for flood mitigation purposes but instead focus on water conservation, an approach supported by NJDEP. Chris Adimondo of Beechwood Drive, a resident since 2015, said that historically flooding in his neighborhood was rare and now the area has faced recent repeated flooding, forcing his family and neighbors to live in fear of another storm.

He said recent storms sent him and neighbors “scrambling” to get vehicles out of the way of incoming floodwaters of which they fortunately received an advance warning. He said the stress of flooding even with small rain events has “affected all of us mentally and emotionally…This is now a public health issue as well as a public safety issue.” He asked the council what area residents could do to help the council change or minimize the flooding now affecting them. Ashley Adimondo said the council should request Veolia to attend a council meeting and explain why they are keeping reservoir levels so full in summer, when rain storms may easily top the reservoir dam or cause water releases that lead to flooding. She questioned the water companyʼs rationale for keeping reservoir levels at peak during the

summer. She said recent floods had been “significantly detrimental” and hoped that the town would work with her neighborhood to resolve increased flooding. Ruocco said the Pascack Valley Mayors Association has been trying to address the issue on a regional basis and has been discussing how since the remnants of Hurricane Ida hit home in September 2021. He said more development, more impervious surfaces, and how the gates are managed at Woodcliff Lake Reservoir all play a part in downstream flooding. He said the flooding problems caused by rainfall have been “dramatic” in recent weeks. He said possible solutions might lie in securing funding to help elevate housing in floodprone areas, and additional funds, for buying out flood-prone properties.

Enviro concern at former Charlie Brown’s BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

A hard-won bid for a third environmental probe for “historical” use of the 95 Linwood Ave. site for gas station operations, costing the township nearly $17,000, has found suggestions of an underground storage tank and piping. The consultant recommends $12,000 to $17,000 more to further investigate the extent of possible on-site contamination, according to its June 13 report. The previous Phase II environmental study used ground-penetrating radar to determine if any underground signs of prior historical fuel storage were present near the middle of the site behind the former Charlie Brownʼs restaurant and found none. A resident questioned those findings and wondered why officials or Lisko Environmental, the

townshipʼs consultant, did not check the front of the property where an archival photo shown at a previous public meeting showed at least three gas pumps on the site. Given the revelations, it was unclear what the mayor and council may decide to do. Whether the council wishes to authorize more spending to investigate further will likely be a topic at the council next meeting, June 20. Mayor Peter Calamari made frequent arguments for the site as a new home for the townʼs Department of Public Works, which lost its HQ at the municipal center after it was razed and toxic soil underneath remediated. The administration and DPW officials, out of sight of the public, long worked on renderings for relatively recent public input. Residents here and in neighboring Paramus immediately objected and continue to savage the plan, and Calamari has pivoted to what he says he

now prefers, using the site as a new police headquarters. Originally, the township was under a June 14 deadline to conclude its due diligence on the property and decide whether to move ahead with its purchase. However, township attorney Kenneth Poller said June 8 that the due diligence period was extended until July 18 by the owner, which evidently had “resisted” the accommodation. Poller is on record advising the seller to part with the property under threat of eminent domain. At the June 8 meeting, council members voted for a third environmental study costing $16,961 to find out whether any underground signs of the former gas pumps, such as underground storage tanks (USTs) and piping, were present. Council rejected the third study, 3–2, but councilman Tom Sears changed his vote on coming out of closed session at nearly 1 a.m. on

June 9. “Based on the results of GPR (ground penetrating radar) scan, itʼs reasonable to conclude the piping identified in the GPR scan was a portion of the historic UST system operated at the subject property,” the consultantʼs executive summary reads in part. The scans and soil test borings were completed June 9 to determine whether there was any indication of the prior gas pump usage and contaminants, said Lisko. “Given the subsurface anomalies consistent with a potential UST field and/or excavation proximal to the southwest corner of the existing building on the subject property, and the potential likelihood that this area may have been associated with USTs, Lisko recommends exploratory test pits be installed to verify the presence or absence of UST system components in this area,” notes the environmental report, prepared on an

expedited schedule for township officials. Eight soil borings were done on site, and three of the eight boring pits were converted into temporary groundwater sampling stations, said Lisko. None of the soil samples nor groundwater samples showed signs of contaminants above environmental standards, the report adds. While no contamination was found, the consultant recommended removing any piping or USTs present, and the exploratory test pits to find out if more buried piping or tanks exist. “Accordingly, LISKO recommends the UST system piping be closed in accordance with the Underground Storage Tank Rules at New Jersey Administrative Code (NJAC) 7:14B, including the removal and completion of the required notifications, sampling CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Alumni achievement: Local grads outstanding Iowa student-athletes named to the 2022 spring academic all-Big Ten team. Roberts is a member of Iowaʼs menʼs track and field team who is a senior majoring in marketing. To be eligible for Academic All-Big Ten selection, students must be on a varsity team, as verified by being on the official squad list as of May 1 for spring sports, who have been enrolled full-time at the institution for a minimum of 12 months and carry a cumulative gradepoint average of 3.0 or higher. • Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania congratulates the nearly 1,950 students named to the spring 2022 deanʼs list. including Stephanie Braune from Hillsdale, a sophomore history major. • Rebecca Cirillo, Township of Washington, a member of the Class of 2022, has been named to the spring 2022 deanʼs list at Stonehill College, North Easton, Mass. • Local residents were among more than 850 bachelorʼs degrees conferred at its under-

FROM PAGE 22

graduate commencement ceremony on May 21 at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Degrees were conferred to graduates who had completed their academic degree requirements in August and December 2021, as well as January and May 2022: Stephen C. Brennan, Hillsdale, B.A., social media strategies; Hunter Collis, Hillsdale, B.S., biology; Amanda N. Dembeck, Westwood, B.S., biology; Ian R. Swietkowski, Westwood, B.S., criminal justice; Keyri D. Villegas-Saenz, Township of Washington, B.S., biology; Katarina E. Bieri, Westwood, B.S., exercise science; Kaylee B. Duffy, Township of Washington, B.S., occupational therapy; Hannah M. Linton, Hillsdale, B.S., health Reilly J. administration; Medzadourian, Township of Washington, B.S., early and primary teacher education; and Joseph P. Cerasuolo, Township of Washington, B.S., business administration. The University of Scranton is a Jesuit university in Northeastern Pennsylvania. • The following local stu-

dents graduated from the University of New Hampshire in Durham on May 20–22: Christopher Donnelly, Park Ridge; Ryan Visich, Westwood; Cassandra Harper, Westwood; and Taylor Allgor, River Vale. • Larissa Aquaviva of Montvale was named to the University of Mississippiʼs Spring 2022 Honor Roll lists. Aquaviva, majoring in general business, was named to the Chancellorʼs Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.75-4.00. • Bucknell University celebrated nearly 900 graduates from the Class of 2022, whose degrees will be conferred in June, on Sunday, May 22. Among them are Justin Schaumberger of River Vale, Chelsea Scoli of River Vale, and Rachel Cherrey of Township of Washington.

• Bucknell University has released the deanʼs list for outstanding academic achievement during the spring semester of the 2021-22 academic year. A student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a scale of 4.0 to receive deanʼs list recognition. Among recipients are Hillsdaleʼs David Oh, 2023, mechanical engineering; and Jodi Siegel, 2025, undeclared; River Valeʼs Justin Schaumberger, 2022, computer science; and Chelsea Scoli, 2022, management and organizations; and Westwoodʼs Lexie Terjanian, 2024, business analytics. • Hannah Linton of Hillsdale was among the 48 University of Scranton students inducted into Upsilon Phi Delta, the national honor society for graduate and undergraduate students in healthcare administration pro-

grams. Students must have a minimum overall grade point average of 3.5 for induction. Linton is a senior pursuing a health administration degree at the Jesuit university. • Jamie Bader of Hillsdale graduated from Moravian University, Bethlehem, Pa., with their Bachelor of Science. • Nicholas Mokanos of Hillsdale has earned a spot on the Deanʼs List for the spring 2022 semester at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, N.Y. Mokanos is majoring in business administration at Saint Rose. — Pascack Press ( Spread the word! Email your alumni updates, and news of other family milestones, to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net. Please include a telephone number for our staff to follow up.

WESTWOOD

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; • Field Trip Camp, grades 7–9. • 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 until 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.

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PASCACK

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

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Pirates launch second season at Westvale

For the second consecutive season the Bergen Pirates are set to play four home games at Westvale Field. The Pirates, a former member and three-time champion (2016, 2017, 2018) of the now defunct North Jersey Amateur Baseball League, and current member of the storied Metropolitan League, are a menʼs 18 and older baseball team based primarily in Westwood. The Metropolitan League

(commonly known as “The Met League”) has been in existence since the late 1960s, and over the decades has featured some of New Jerseyʼs premier amateur baseball talent. There are 11 teams playing in the 2022 season (other teams include the Sox, Dumont Huskies, Bergen Mets, Rutherford Rays, NJ Blue Jays, Cresskill Cougars, Hackensack Troasts, Little Ferry Dodgers, North Haledon Reds, and Bergenfield Yan-

kees), a season after which the 2021 Pirates finished with a 1410 record and lost in the semifinals to the eventual league runner-up, the South Bergen Bullets. This yearʼs Pirates feature 25 players, each with a minimum of collegiate-level playing experience, including several with experience at various levels of Minor League Independent Baseball. For more information write Dan Solomon at bergenpiratesbaseball@gmail.com.

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up with attractive gardens and more. • Use stones or gravel for a walkway. If commercially installed pavers or cement walkways are not within your budget, there are some affordable alternatives. Flagstone or individually purchased and spaced pavers and pea gravel can be used to create pathways. Some construction sites even offer free stones when asked. Soften the look with moss or other plants on the perimeter. • Remove some lawn. Lawns can require hours of upkeep that may involve the application of expensive fertilizers and weedkilling products that are not always so eco-friendly. Reduce the size of a lawn by putting in a mixed planting bed of perennials or ornamental grasses, or use landscape fabric and mulch. • Look for free mulch. Municipal recycling centers may offer residents access to free mulch made from grinding up leaves, branches and other plant debris collected throughout the town. Simply bring a few containers to the recycling center and spread the mulch for an ornamental look or to insulate landscapes over winter and protect against weeds. • Repurpose old items into planters. Old wheelbarrows, barrels, watering cans, and other items can be repurposed into container gardening vessels. Figure out if

Free mulch and scavenged stones for walkways can dress up areas of the landscape for little money. items marked for the garbage bin landscape accessories during this can be incorporated into garden fea- time of year. Plants can be covtures instead. ered or allowed to thrive indoors • Invest in plants that are until they can be planted in the easy to propagate. Perennials are spring. the gardenerʼs friend when it comes • Pool your resources. to saving money. These plants Homeowners planning on a big sprout anew each year, and many, landscaping or revitalization projsuch as sedum, catmint, ferns, ect may want to speak with neighhostas, and black-eyed Susans, can bors to see if theyʼre interested in propagate by division. Figure out doing the same. the best times of year to divide the Contractors guaranteed busiplants and start growing them in ness from a few homes in the individual containers before plant- same neighborhood may be willing the sturdy new shoots in the ing to negotiate lower prices for ground. A single variety of plants the volume of work on things like grouped together in mass plantings driveway repaving, deck- or fence-building, or installation of is affordable and easy. • Shop end-of season sales. paver patios. Some handy ideas can help Garden centers may begin to make room for holiday items come the homeowners transform landfall. Take advantage of reduced scapes without spending too costs on remaining plants and much.

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Outdoor living spaces are a wildly popular trend. A 2021 survey conducted on behalf of the International Casual Furnishings Association and American Home Furnishings Alliance found that 90% of individuals surveyed felt outdoor living spaces are more valuable than ever. That popularity was evident during the pandemic, during which 23% of respondents indicated they bought new furniture while 18% acknowledged building a deck. The excitement of seeing a new or renovated outdoor living area can make it easy to overlook safety. But outdoor living areas, particularly those that include entertaining areas with televisions, lighting and other electronics, can pose significant safety hazards if homeowners donʼt take some necessary precautions. • Use an appropriate extension cord. String lights above outdoor living spaces like decks and patios can create a warm, relaxing nighttime vibe. Those lights need to be plugged in, which increases the risk for electrical accidents. When utilizing an extension cord outdoors, never use a cord designated for indoor use. Outdoor extension cords are better insulated than cords made for indoor use. That insulation provides better protection against

Outdoor living areas, particularly those that include entertaining areas with televisions, lighting, and other electronics, can pose significant safety hazards. Take necessary precautions.

the elements, including sunlight, changes in temperature and moisture. When using an extension cord outdoors, make sure the cord is secured and not left lying on a deck or patio where it can easily become a tripping hazard. • Consider fencing. Fencing

can make an outdoor living space more private and safe. Local laws may mandate that pools be enclosed with fencing, but even living spaces without pools can be made safer with the installation of a fence. Fire pits are wildly popular, as more than 35% of homeowners

who responded to the ICFA survey acknowledged their intention to purchase new firepits in 2021. Adding fencing around areas with firepits establishes boundaries, which is a must for homeowners with small children. Fencing also makes it harder for local

wildlife to gain access to a property, which can decrease residentsʼ risk for tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease. • Purchase an outdoor television. Outdoor televisions can be expensive, but the cost of such devices will depend on what homeowners are looking for. Homeowners who plan to spend ample time outdoors watching games, movies and their favorite shows may feel a high-end outdoor television, which can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000, is well worth the investment. But those working with smaller budgets can find a quality 4K outdoor TV for around $2,000. Thatʼs still a steep price tag, but the electronics experts at P.C. Richard & Son note that outdoor TVs are designed with safety features that indoor televisions donʼt have. For example, outdoor television sets can self-regulate temperature and moisture levels, greatly reducing the risk of electrical issues. Outdoor living spaces are wildly popular. Homeowners are urged to prioritize safety when designing and enjoying outdoor entertaining areas at their homes.

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REAL ESTATE

Enviro:

and reporting to the NJDEP,” the report states. “For budgetary and conceptual planning purposes, itʼs reasonable to anticipate costs ranging from $12,000 to $17,000 for exploratory borings and to close the existing UST system piping in accordance with applicable regulations. In the event that additional UST system components (i.e., underground storage tanks, additional piping, etc.) or contamination is identified, costs will be increased,” the reportʼs executive summary concludes. Council voted against the latest study, then reversed itself

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34

At the June 8 meeting, both Council President Desserie Morgan and councilman Steven Cascio voted against doing the third environmental study. Both said they were against purchasing the site for specific reasons. (See “Council wavers on deeper enviro look at 95 Linwood; DPW option lives on,” Pascack Press, June 13, 2022.) Sears changed his vote in closed session and joined council vice president Stacey Feeney and councilwoman Daisy Velez to support the third study. Sears said he was against the purchase because it was no longer for the DPW and he did not support moving the police department there, which now is Mayor Peter Calamariʼs preferred use for the site. He said he would prefer the property

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HELP WANTED Kitchen Cabinet installers helper. Must have basic knowledge of tools. Valid drivers license. Ken Bauer Kitchens, Hillsdale NJ (201)664-6881. HELP WANTED HELP WANTED- Anchor Seafood - Counter and Kitchen help needed. P/T and FT available. No Nights, off Sun & Mon. Call Chris 240-338-9926. WANT BUSINESS?

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back on the market and help the town meet its future affordable housing goals. Before the council broke for executive session Poller seemed to suggest that was not the purpose the purchase was bonded for. He urged the council hear him out privately on ramifications. We reached out to all council members for comment on the report, via their council email address. Not hearing back promptly,

we posted a version of this story online as breaking news. We then heard back from Feeney, who said she was making her way through the technical document. Morgan offered Pascack Press her assessment. “I have even more reservations about moving forward with the property after reviewing the report. I donʼt want to continue to spend money exploring whether or not there are additional environmen-

WESTWOOD

Woman’s Club sets Christmas in July

GFWC/NJSFWC The Womanʼs Club of Westwood recently installed its newly elected officers and announced a charitable drive seeking your support. The club tells Pascack Press its goal is “to enhance the quality of life within our community and state by transforming public interests and concerns into meaningful projects and programs.” For more than a decade, clubs have prepared and sent holiday stockings for troops serving our nation overseas. The club is planning a Christmas in July collection to be held at CVS in Westwood for the month of July. Suggested items to donate are hard candy, gum, nuts/seeds/trail mix, pens, pencils, writing pads, toothbrushes and toothpaste. A complete list will be available at the pharmacy. Club meetings are held on

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GFWC/NJSFWC The Woman’s Club of Westwood’s newly installed officers: Front to back, left to right: president Merianne Quillio, treasurer Judie Gargano, second vice president Joanne Toole, corresponding secretary Mary Cerrati, and recording secretary Deen Meloro Not pictured: first vice president Lynda Bager. Club photo. For more information about the second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the clubhouse on the club and its activities call Kinderkamack Road from (201) 916-1580. September through June.

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HELP WANTED SUMMER CUSTODIANS - River Vale Public Schools 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675 July 1–Sept. 9 2022 M-F, 7am-3pm $15/hr.Landscaping, painting, cleaning classrooms & equipment, moving furniture, etc. Contact Mr. Ken Peterson, Director of Building & Grounds at 201-358-4000 ext. 4034 or Email: rbajati@rivervaleschools.com. AA/EOE HELP WANTED SCHOOL BUS AIDE Hours: Monday through Friday (7:30 - 8:45 AM and 2:30 - 3:45 PM). Compensation: $100/day If interested, contact: Mr. Michael Pinajian Superintendent/Principal Northvale School District 441 Tappan Road Northvale, NJ 07647

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HELP WANTED SUBSTITUTE CUSTODIANS - River Vale Public Schools, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. $25/hr. Black seal license, knowledge of plant operation/maintenance, cleaning methods/procedures and public school experience preferred. Contact Mr. Ken Peterson, Director of Building & Grounds at 201-358-4000 ext. 4034 or Email: rbajati@rivervaleschools.com. AA/EOE

Lawncare Operator Full & Part time positions available Flexible hours. Call (201) 664 1665. HELP WANTED LANDSCAPING - labor wanted, Immediate opening. Experience a plus but willing to train. Must have means of transportation. Call: 201-664-3130. HELP WANTED

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tal issues. Being that we have no clear plan for the site, my vote remains the same. I will not be voting to purchase the property.” The townʼs DPW apparatus is stored at the former private Washington Township Swim and Recreation Club, on Ridgewood Boulevard North, which the town recently purchased for open space and recreation uses. Neighbors object to the presence of the equipment.

HELP WANTED PUBLIC WORKS/FT Sanitation (Laborer)– Borough of Woodcliff Lake Woodcliff Lake is seeking a full-time public works TEMPORARY SEASONAL LABORER – Woodcliff Lake Department of Public Works is seeking individuals to fill the summer seasonal Labor positions beginning on or about May 1. Experience not necessary $15/hr. Responsibilities include lawn cutting, weed whipping, mulching, emptying trash cans and recycle cans and performing other manual labor and other related duties as required. Send letter/resume to: Cbehrens@wclnj.com SUBJECT: Temporary Seasonal Laborer, DPW or call the DPW: (201) 391-3172. River Vale Public Schools, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. $25/hr. Black seal license, knowledge of plant operation/maintenance, cleaning methods/procedures and public school experience preferred. Contact Mr. Ken Peterson, Director of Building & Grounds at 201-358-4000 ext. 4034 or Email: rbajati@rivervaleschools.co m. AA/EOE

HELP WANTED The Borough of Westwood is accepting applications for a full time laborer position in the Department of Public Works. Responsibilities include but are not limited to manual labor; snow plowing; maintenance of roads, parks, grounds, sewers, landscaping, leaf/brush collection; road work; tree work; equipment operation in all weather conditions, and some mandatory overtime. HS diploma or equivalent, valid Driver’s License required; must have CDL Class B License. Successful applicant must undergo background check and drug test prior to appointment. Employment applications are available on the Borough website westwoodnj.gov or can be picked up at Borough Hall, 101 Washington Avenue. Submit completed applications to Attention: Rick Woods, Superintendent or email rwoods@westwoodnj.gov no later than June 30, 2022. EOE

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HELP WANTED Bookkeeper - Small sales office in Park Ridge seeking part-time bookkeeper to help run accounting dept. QuickBooks proficient required 2 days a week, flexible hours, $21 per hour. Please send resumes to: teri@riccisales.com.

SERVICES YOU NEED CHHA/ HousekeeperVirus free. Very caring, reliable, over 16 years exp, excellent references, Looking to care for elderly; very competent. Day or night. Call (201) 9934748.

Part time Companion Very compassionate person to take elderly woman in wheelchair outside (at nursing home) for fresh air (and maybe a cigarette) Few days per week. Will pay hourly. Preferably someone living in Park Ridge area. Please call (201) 741-8080. SITUATIONS WANTED

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The Westwood Habitat ReStore is looking for funloving people to volunteer! Positions include customer service and the loading dock. Join the family at Habitat Bergen ReStore and help us build homes for families while having a feel-good experience volunteering. Call (201) 547-1020 for more information. Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County – Restore is at 121 Carver Ave. Westwood.

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PASCACK HILLS 1972 50TH CLASS REUNION! Courtyard Montvale, Montvale, Nov. 4–6, 2022. Contact Doug Bowen at stonykill@verizon.net. SERVICES YOU NEED Anges Fantastic House Cleaning House Cleaning weekly & biweekly. 1 time services as well. Every project is different, every client is special. Special 2022 pricing. Call Anges at (845) 3094448 for more info. Professional Offices 180 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan – For Rent, $450/month. Call 201768-0218. COMMERCIAL RENT

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Dr. Schoenlank has a doctorate from Seton Hall University, a masterʼs in education from Harvard University, and a bachelorʼs degree in education and psychology from Bucknell University. Elementary Curriculum Coordinator Kelly Hughes, who was slated to be the elementary assistant principal next year, will serve as the acting principal of Brookside School for the next school year. Ms. Hughes has done a wonderful job in our district, and she truly cares about the staff and students. Around December, I

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

will solicit resumes for a permanent principal; an interview committee will be charged with recommending a few candidates to me. Our students and staff are in good hands with these highly competent professionals. I am excited to have them on our administrative team. Good things are to come next year, so please know I am committed to making systemic improvements that result in increased student achievement and making studentsʼ voices heard.

WESTWOOD

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. 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.

Softball: PRMS girls win big 10th inning, Park Ridge had two outs and runners on 2nd and 3rd in the bottom when seventh-grader Kayla Iula hit a ball that fell just out of the reach of a Wyckoff outfielder, allowing fellow seventhgraders Dani DellaVolpe and Aurelia Carolan to score the tying and winning runs on a walkoff victory for the home team, ending this three-hour battle. Eighth-grader Gabi DellaVolpe was stellar on the mound and received the game ball. The Owlsʼ win was the first championship for the middle school softball program, Coach Karen Carroll told Pascack Press on June 15. “Last year was a Covid season, a short season. There were no playoffs, but the girls that were now the eighth-graders as seventhgraders finished winning nine of out of 10 games. If there had been the playoffs they were the best team into this year,” she said. “Wyckoff, who we played in

FROM PAGE 1

the finals, didnʼt play last year. But they have always been one of the strongest teams in the league. So we played them in our secondto-last regular game, and both teams were undefeated,” she said. Carroll said, “We went to their field, and it was just a barn-burner: it was back and forth, and at the end we pulled it out and beat them, 11-6, but they were missing their best pitcher.” She added, “So it was a good win for us, we got home field advantage for the playoffs, and I knew we would play them again, which we did: we played them in the finals.” Of the championship gameʼs

OBITUARIES

Joseph G. MILLER

Joseph G. Miller, 85, of Bath, Pa. passed away on April 2, 2022 in St. Lukeʼs Hospital, Fountain Hill, Pa. Born in New York City, Joseph was the son of the late Harold and Evelyn (Wilhelm) Miller. He was raised in the Pascack Valley with his three siblings. He was predeceased by his baby sister Mary (Miller) Larkin and his older brother Francis Miller. After graduating from St. Peterʼs Preparatory School in Jersey City, he entered the U.S. Army and was stationed at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala. Joseph had great talent and worked as an independent contractor for many years until retiring. Prior to that he was a union member in the elevator industry. In retirement he was an owner/operator of Brook Farm Inn in Lenox, Mass. There, he took care of all renovations, repairs, and upkeep of the 15-guestroom bed and breakfast. He read poetry in the library to his guests over tea and scones every day at 4 oʼclock. He was adored by his vacationing guests and the Lenox community at large. A man who went out of his way to help those in need, Joseph was a kind, quiet, humble, hardworking, intelligent, dryly humored man who loved his dogs, the outdoors (especially Vermont), furniture-making, woodworking, and watching all sports. He was an

avid reader and a diehard fan of drum and bugle corps. He was the dedicated, devoted father of, and is survived, by his daughter, Jodi, wife of Dr. Edward Manzella of Allentown, Pa.; his younger brother Michael and his wife, Kathleen (Sunden) Miller; and by his two adopted children, Robert Miller of Tempe, Ariz. and Laura (Miller) and her husband, Jeffrey Bonn, of Emerson. A memorial service was held on Friday, April 29 at J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Allentown, Pa. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Josephʼs memory to the American Cancer Society.

Thomas S. STRUBLE

Thomas S. Struble, 83, of Williams Township, Pa., and formerly of Manahawkin, Long Valley, and Westwood, died Sunday, June 12, 2022 at St. Luke's -Anderson Campus. He is the husband of Judy E. (McCue) Struble. Tom was born in Hackensack on June 30, 1938 to the late Gregory V. and Susanna (Otrupcak) Struble. He was in human resources, the last 10 years as a career counselor at Sussex County Community College until his retirement. Tom is a member of St. Francis Roman Catholic Church, Long Beach Island, N.J. He was in the Stafford Township Lions Club and was the recipient of the

Melvin Jones Fellowship Award. He especially enjoyed metaldetecting and golf. Survivors, in addition to his loving wife of 61 years, are his children Pamela S. (Scott) Wnuck of Melbourne, Fla.; Lisa A. (Kevin) Connelly of Easton; Jefferey T. (Deborah) of Whippany; Karalyn M. (Eric) Naiburg of Easton; his sister Virginia (Jack) Sauer of Manchester, N.J.; 11 grandchildren; and two greatgranddaughters. He is predeceased by his sister Kaaren Struble. Family and friends are invited to call Monday, June 20 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at St. Francis Roman Catholic Church, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, N.J. followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11:30. Expressions of sympathy can be recorded at heintzelmancares.com. Arrangements are by the Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., Hellertown. In lieu of flowers, memorials are welcome at Stafford Twp. Lions Club, St. Francis Food Pantry, and Interfaith Health and Support Services of Southern Ocean County.

Zachary F. BLAIR

Zachary F. Blair, 25, of Hillsdale passed away on Wednesday, June 8, 2022. Zachary is survived by his beloved parents, Blair Gregory and Kathy Abney; his dear sibling Blair Abney; his aunt,

Carol Fasick; and his uncles, Gary Blair and Keith Abney and wife Micki; as well as cousins Ashlie, Laura, Eric, and Joel. Zach was endlessly curious, wanting to learn more, which led to many passions and hobbies: politics, computers, baseball, statistics, the Chinese language — the list could go on. He was passionate about service and was an Eagle Scout. Zach was studying psychology at Bergen Community College, with the goal of becoming a LCSW. Cremation and memorial service will be held privately. Please share fond memories and condolences at BeckerFuneralhome.com.

Jane M. CONWAY

Jane M. Conway, 92, of Hillsdale, passed away on Wednesday, June 9, 2022. She was born to the late James and Julia McShane on Nov. 25, 1929 in New York City. Jane is survived by her beloved husband, Joseph, whom she married on Nov. 14, 1959; her sons Joseph and his wife, Norma; James and his wife, Dina; John and his wife, Jacqueline; and Timothy and his wife, Martha. She is also survived by her six grandchildren: Joseph, Julia, Thomas, Christina, Emily, and Alexa. Jane was an amazing sketch artist and avid bridge player and loved watching her favorite baseball team, the New York Yankees. The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kin-

fireworks, Carroll said, “One of the umpires said it was one of the best games heʼs every umpired in high school or middle school. There were double plays, there were diving catches...” She said, “Neither team deserved to lose that game. It was just a battle. My girls showed true grit.” Carroll said, “It was a threehour game … we didnʼt get done ʻtil a quarter to eight. It was one of those, Oh my God, oh my God, yes, no, yes!” Carroll said, too, that of her nine eighth-graders and nine seventh-graders, not every girl played in the championship — but that they all are champs. “If you look at the team picture you canʼt tell who played in the game and who didnʼt because every one of them was beaming from head to toe for the win. Itʼs a selfless team,” she said. She added, “That says a lot. Iʼm really proud of them. I canʼt wait for next year.” — With John Snyder

derkamack Road, Westwood on Tuesday, June 14 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A Mass celebrating Janeʼs life and faith will be held at St. John The Baptist R.C. Church, 69 Valley Street, Hillsdale on Wednesday, June 15 at 10:30 a.m. with interment at Ascension Cemetery, 650 Saddle River Road, Airmont, N.Y. to follow. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at Becker-FuneralHome.com.

Edmund G. KELLER

Edmund G. Keller, 91, of Westwood, passed away on Wednesday, June 8, 2022. Beloved husband of the late Catherine (nee Millen) Keller. Devoted father of Catherine M. and Edmund J. (Eileen) Loving Keller. grandfather of Jamie, Todd, Marissa, and Keith. Great-grandfather of Brett, Dylan, Landon, Melodie, Conrad, Sydney, and Sonora. A visitation for Edmund will be held Friday, June 10 from 2 to 8 p.m. at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood. Fire department service is at 7 p.m. Funeral Mass is Saturday, June 11 at 10 a.m. at Church of St. Andrew, 120 Washington Ave., Westwood. Interment, St. Andrewʼs Cemetery, River Vale. Memorial gifts to the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department, 93 Center Ave., Westwood, NJ 07675 or St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital, stjude.org would be appreciated.

Public Meetings Act was passed. But he astutely observed that the emergence of the internet allowing information to be shared more easily should prompt the Legislature to reconsider adopting a more transparent and modern view of what municipalities should share via published agendas. I have been working with our elected representative in the Assembly to do just that, and have gained their support. But the Hillsdale Council could have reformed its own practices. They chose not to. Hillsdale voters should ask why. Mayor John Ruocco Hillsdale

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Schepisi asks Murphy to order Veolia on reservoir This is the letter state Sen. Holly Schepisi (R-39) sent to Gov. Phil Murphy on June 3. She said with

OV.

MURPHY, I am writing to respectfully request that you issue an Executive Order directing Veolia to maintain a maximum of 91 feet in the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir until further notice. The frequent

SCHEPISI

MURPHY

weather events, many of which are not even significant storms, have continuously caused residents to face flooding on their properties. Local mayors and I have asked Veolia to consider lowering reservoir levels in anticipation of these heavy rains and have been unsuccessful. Without your direction, they simply do not believe this to be necessary. With the Reservoir level at 95 feet, there is simply nowhere for the water to go. Even a small

rain results in runoff and spillover, continuously damaging properties. This is avoidable. Now that we have entered the summer season, the level will stay at 95 feet and will continue to be a problem. We need your help to ensure that preventative steps are taken to ease the burden on those who are being harmed by Veoliaʼs inaction. Additionally, Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo contacted the DEP on March 30th requesting that they conduct an analysis comparing the accuracy of prestorm rainfall predictions with actual rainfall, looking back over several years. The idea was to gauge how much of the water asset might have been lost had pre-release followed these predictions. And then compare those costs with the cost of property damage, Emergency Service costs, increased flood insurance premiums etc, generated by the standard operating procedure of holding the asset and accepting the resultant flooding. Such a study might prove it more cost effective to take some sustainable financial loss on the water asset than continue pay out damages and incur local service costs. On April 29, Mayor Arroyoʼs request was denied. I have introduced legislation,

Senate bill 790, which would require the state's water management facilities to include flood mitigation protocols in their standard operating procedures. Such measures could compel pre-storm release of maxed out holding vessels. I will continue to advocate for the movement of this legislation, but in the meantime, it is necessary to take immediate action.

I would greatly appreciate your serious consideration of an Executive Order to protect residents throughout my district as we continue to face unpredictable weather events and unprecedented local flooding. I am happy to discuss further. Senator Holly Schepisi Westwood

continuing pattern of vacancy or underutilization; • More than half of identified housing stock is at least 50 years old, or a majority of water and sewer infrastructure is at least 50 years old and requires substantial repairs or maintenance; and • A program of rehabilitation may be expected to prevent further deterioration and promote the overall development of the community. Ruocco wrote Pascack Press, “When I reviewed the properties in DMR's proposal to do the investigative study to determine if the

commercial zone and some ancillary parcels meet the statutory criteria to be designated an area in need of rehabilitation, it seemed odd to me that some properties were cited as being in the study area, while others were not.” He said, “I wondered why St. Johnʼs Church and school, Veteransʼ Park, and eight contiguous properties in the flood zone along Lafayette and Riverside were to be captured in the study (but not others along Riverside), while others along Broadway that were clearly commercial were excluded (for example), all the properties on the east side of Broadway between Park and Cross.”

the Garden State Parkway was on the plans. Commissioner Germaine M. Ortiz, of Emerson, who has driven through the busy interCALAMARI section many times over 18 years living in the Pascack Valley, said the project start was a “win-win for everyone” including locals “who have been waiting for it for over 20 years,” she said. Ortiz has served as a commissioner for six years. “Iʼm cheering for it and definitely pushing for its completion,” Ortiz told Pascack Press. She said though initial hopes were to complete the project by year-end, due to

delays and supply chain backlogs, a spring 2023 completion date seems more likely. Last fall, Calamari also reported that the county planned to pave the length of Pascack Road in 2023. No updates or timeline has yet been revealed. Moreover, the township is nearing completion of a long-awaited emergency services building to house the volunteer fire department and ambulance corps at 620 Washington Ave., near the busy intersection. As part of its three-year-old shared services agreement with Bergen County on the intersection fixup, the township agreed to pay for any new traffic signals required for public safety at the new Emergency Services Building, originally anticipated for completion in January.

Hillsdale: Study FROM PAGE 8

Intersection: Overhaul will take some pressure off drive cack Press on June 15, “Of course expand the intersectionʼs footprint. Sheinfield said local police we are thrilled that another imporThe intersection had been the will be in charge of traffic managetant step has taken place on this subject of numerous complaints, ment at the intersection as work project. The county has put a lot of meetings, and promises over at gets underway. FROM PAGE 1

The much-maligned Pascack Road–Washington Avenue Intersection will be improved, per plans via Boswell Engineering. Preliminary work is to start this summer, officials said.

time and money into this project, and we look forward to working with them as we have in the past to bring the project to completion.” Sheinfield said engineers were estimating that work could likely go into early or mid 2023 before project completion. Last October, the county said it would move on the intersection fix after the township secured the last of 16 easements required to

least two decades as motorists — including those operating large trucks and buses — have navigated the intersectionʼs narrow turn lanes, aggravated by steady traffic from a nearby Garden State Parkway exit. The low-bidder was New Prince Concrete Construction Co., Inc., Hackensack. Two other higher bids were received, ranging up to $2,348.012, said the county spokesman.

County engineers are now in discussion with the winning contractor over timelines and work scheduling, including initial work on drainage, lanes, directional striping, and traffic signals, Sheinfield said. Sheinfield said the three vacant houses abutting the intersection will be torn down, and an area for a new bus stop heading towards

The notorious bottleneck at Pascack Road and Washington Avenue is on the county’s construction calendar, with work seen as starting this summer and ending by mid-2023. Delays are warned over supply-chain issues. Google Street View.

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Letters:

Sen. Joseph Lagana (D-38) of Paramus having signed on as a prime sponsor, also June 3, her bill is bipartisan. — Ed.

JUNE 20, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Pascack Press 6.20.22

Articles inside

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