Pascack Press 7.18.22 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 18

JULY 18, 2022

For the HER LIFE’S WORK troops POWERS ON Kalfus, Larghi are ʻDominiqueʼscholarship winners T

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

GFWC/NJSFWC The Woman’s Club of Westwood holds Christmas in July at CVS.

SEE PAGE 19

EMERSON

LAWSUITS TIGHTEN AROUND EMERSON STATION

Work toward a trial could be ready by fall; parking garage, foundations rising BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The borough attorney says construction on Emerson Station, the 147-unit residential mixed use complex, including 15,000-square foot of retail space downtown, is progressing — but the legal process between the redeveloper and borough is moving along much slower. Both the borough and redeveloper have filed dueling lawsuits, the redeveloper alleging delays and

See LAWSUITS on page 314

YOUNG

‘HUB’ OKS DOWNTOWN ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGERS Residents take the lead on project; Arroyo says borough timing ʻexactly rightʼ on trend

LADIES

whoʼve just graduated area high schools and are planning to go into the medical field have been helped along by scholarships in memory of someone who would have recognized them as kindred spirits, and been delighted to help them succeed. Receiving Dominiqueʼs Journey Scholarships of $2,500 each at June senior awards nights were Park Ridge High Schoolʼs Nicole Larghi and Pascack Valley High Schoolʼs Lauren Kalfus. Both wrote winning essays answering how they planned to contribute to changing the world for the better — and in so doing showed that they would continue Dominique Francoʼs legacy of giving and kindness. On Feb. 16, 2019, thirdyear nursing student Dominique Ann Franco, 21, died suddenly at the University of Rhode Island, leaving hundreds of family members, friends, and acquaintances in shock and grief. Dominiqueʼs funeral Mass, at Our Lady Mother of the Church in Woodcliff Lake, drew nearly 1,000, including her sorority sisters. Sister to four brothers, she was president of her sorority chapter, Zeta Tau Alpha. She was a graduate of

WESTWOOD

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Dominique Ann Franco, 21, died suddenly at the University of Rhode Island in 2019. The Park Ridge resident’s dream job was to work at St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital. Her family’s foundation, Dominique Franco’s St. Jude’s Journey, with its annual scholarship. supports similar passions. Park Ridge High Schoolʼs class of 2016. Her parents, Gina and Mike, and their family, through the Dominique Francoʼs St. Judeʼs Journey foundation, have continued to support Tomorrowʼs Children at Hackensack hospital in her memory. Gina told Pascack Press of the scholarship, “We raised more than $4,000 in donations in gift cards and monies despite Covid. This is a charity my

5FRANCO FAMILY PHOTO

daughter began a toy drive for at 16 and continued even when she was in college at URI for nursing.” She said Dominique organized her first fundraiser at 7, passing along thousands of dollars for cancer research at Hackensack Meridian Healthʼs Tomorrows Childrenʼs Fund and St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital. She raised funds against childrenʼs cancer for

Continued on page 10

The governing body on June 28 adopted resolutions authorizing the boroughʼs electric vehicle charging station initiative to move forward, including project management, design services, working with charging provider Blink, and striping of the charging stalls. The move follows action taken April 5 when the governing body approved a plan presented by councilwoman and Parking Authority liaison Cheryl Hodges to install four dual Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations in the boroughʼs three public parking lots: north, south, and Fairview. The Westwood Parking Authority endorsed the plan at its April 12 meeting. According to Mayor Ray Arroyo, each EV charging location will provide four charging ports, enabling 12 vehicles to be charged simultaneously in the Central Business District. Level 2 chargers offer 40–65 miles of travel with every hour of charge. Arroyo said the upgraded elec-

See HUB on page 234

EMERSON WINS!

B ck in time...

Congratulations to Emerson softball’s 3rd and 4th grade summer travel team, which just won the Ramsey Rumble softball tournament.

Pine Lake in the Township of Washington is a widely cherished memory by longtime residents of the Pascack Valley. Kristin Beuscher brings out so much of this site’s story. SEE PAGE 4

SEE PAGE 21

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PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Ruocco rips council on pool ‘center’ To the editor: J 12 Hillsdale Borough Council meeting, a A presentation was made on the key T THE

ULY

components of the Paterson Street redevelopment agreement that has been reached with developers Claremont March [see page 8]. The borough will benefit by ridding itself of Waste Management, partially satisfying our affordable housing requirements,

and establishing a significant cash flow from expected PILOT payments over the next three decades that will greatly exceed the current level of property tax revenue. It also will receive a separate cash contribution of $750,000 as a community benefit over the next two years. In exchange for granting the redeveloper a bonus density of 54 units per acre, the developer provided certain community benefits to the Borough. The most significant was a 5,000 square-foot indoor community center, with additional outdoor space of approximately 2,200 square feet to be used by Hillsdale residents. Then why did the council later that same meeting decide to hire a consultant for $199,000 to begin planning a second community center of 3,500 to 4,000 square feet somewhere at the Stonybrook Pool that will cost at least $2 million, all at taxpayer expense? How does this make sense? The need for two community centers was never justified. Explanations from various council memADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY IN THE PASCACK PRESS.

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bers conflicted, some saying the seniors needed their own dedicated space at Stonybrook, but later saying that the second community center was going to be used by other groups as well. Some tried to define the second community center as “not really a center” but as part of Hillsdaleʼs overall community program delivered at a second location. Really? Others said that members of the townʼs 50-Plus Club were consulted and wanted “their own

The Montvale Service Area on the Garden State Parkway has been renamed in honor of actor James Gandolfini, a proud New Jerseyan whose portrayal of the fictional New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano has made him an icon in his native state and earned him a place in the New Jersey Hall of Fame. The name change became official in late May when “James Gandolfini Service Area” signs were installed on the Parkway. Phil Murphy Gov. announced last year that Parkway service areas would be renamed to honor New Jersey Hall of Fame inductees in the arts, entertainment, and sports. Montvale is the sixth service area to be renamed so far. Cheesequake has been renamed for rock star Jon Bon Jovi, Forked

River for salsa star Celia Cruz, Brookdale North for baseball legend Larry Doby, Monmouth for childrenʼs author Judy GANDOLFINI Blume, and Atlantic for singer Frank Sinatra. Other New Jersey Hall of Fame members who will have Parkway service areas renamed in their honor include journalist Connie Chung (Brookdale South) and singer Whitney Houston (Vauxhall). “The Sopranos,” which ran on HBO for six seasons between 1999 and 2007, is a fixture on criticsʼ lists of the greatest TV dramas of all time. Gandolfiniʼs work on the show earned him

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three Emmy Awards, three Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Golden Globe. New Jerseyʼs toll roads appeared regularly on the show. The opening credits featured Gandolfiniʼs character driving on the New Jersey Turnpike. And an episode in Season 3 titled “Army of One” was recorded inside the service area that now bears Gandolfiniʼs name. Gandolfini grew up in Park Ridge. He graduated from Park Ridge High School and Rutgers University. He died of a heart attack in 2013 at age 51 and was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame the following year. Park Avenue near the Ridge Diner was rechristened “James Gandolfini Way,” and the nearby The James, Park Ridgeʼs mixeduse redevelopment complex, was named in his honor.

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council members admitted that a Citizens Advisory Committee had not been consulted since it was created last fall, except for one meeting on Feb. 16. The need for two community centers was not discussed; no one at the council meeting could say what extra staffing or maintenance issues might arise from having two community centers. I suggested to the council

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space.” (My wife and I are members and we can attest that did not happen). It is true the senior community is tired of moving their events from church building to church building — they want a permanent location with storage space for their belongings and space for periodic meetings and the occasional special event. The larger community center in the Paterson St. redevelopment zone will provide that for them and others.

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.

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Residents petition ZBA over BP station requests TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Neighbors of the BP Station at 615 Washington Ave. have petitioned the Zoning Board of Adjustment with reasons not to approve all of the requests from BP Products North America, as stated in application dated May 4, over changes to the stationʼs configuration. The ZBA is scheduled to meet remotely on Tuesday, July 19 at 7:30 p.m. The application, filed by Price, Meese Shulman and DʼArminio, seeks preliminary and final site plan, variance relief and other related relief that would add a brightly lighted canopy with a freestanding sign. Sought are variance relief for expansion of a nonconforming use and other related relief. The applicant seeks “relief for minimum front yard setback for canopy where 20ʼ is permitted and 14.7ʼ is proposed; maximum number of canopy signs for a total of three where none is permit-

ted; maximum canopy sign area where 13.64 square feet is proposed for each canopy sign (40.92 square feet total) where no canopy signs are permitted; and maximum freestanding sign area where the +/- 62.5 existing freestanding sign is being reduced to a proposed +/-50 sf freestanding sign where no freestanding sign is permitted.” According to the application, the canopy “shall extend across the entire limits of the existing fuel dispensing facilities.” There also are a number of changes proposed to reconstruct the concrete canopy mat and the concrete curb and sidewalk along the front and side of the building to provide an ADA-compliant accessible route to the office and bathrooms within the building. The property, Block 3203, Lot 33 on the tax assessment map, is in the Residential District Zone (“B Zone”), and sits at the intersection of Cleveland Avenue. (There are 120 feet of frontage along Washington Avenue and 150 feet of frontage along Cleveland Avenue.)

The boardʼs engineer, Paul Azzolina, wrote in his report on the application on March 18, in part, “Notwithstanding any such further revision of the proposed lighting analysis, it appears that proposed site lighting intensities, as presented, are well beyond levels reasonably required for the safe and efficient passage of vehicles and pedestrians through the site given the adjoining residential uses.” 631 Washington Ave. resident John Pistono, who has spoken out against the scale and illumination of the neighboring emergency services building rising next door to his house, has launched a petition urging the ZBA take their concerns of BPʼs plans to heart. Residentsʼ letter to the board on June 16 reads, “We understand all of the Zoning Board members live in the Township of Washington so you should all be familiar with the now existing, horrendous traffic and danger on Washington Avenue. Consider this, trying to get in and out of the neighborhood safely each day and getting to our homes unscathed &

safely.” Residents said, “You should think very carefully about the numerous children, pedestrians and bicycles crossing Washington Avenue to get to Clark Field.” The residents said, “The petition given to you represents roughly 58 homes and counting in the immediate area and many who provided only one signature. If you calculate the number of signatures times two for each location, you can see we are talking about hundreds of people who do not want any changes to the existing BP station configuration.”

They added, “A major consideration for the owners and BP North America should absolutely be losing all these residents as customers. You really should sit down and tally up the loss of gallons of gasoline you would lose in sales and your customer base.” And they said, “We will have additional addresses and signatures to add to this list prior to the next meeting. [Total 62 homes and 74 names as of press time.] Choose wisely everyone!” Owner is Power Test Realty Co, c/o Getty Realty, Jericho, N.Y.

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BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

B ck in time...

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

Carnival delights Following a two-year Covid hiatus, the annual Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps Carnival — the corpʼs main fundraiser — lit up Westwood Plaza, returning “better than ever” July 6–10. Wednesday and Thursday featured one-price bracelets for unlimited rides. And a “Sunday Funday” debuted. Meanwhile, the corps posted that its Saturday crew recently was on the go providing mutual aid to River Vale, Montvale, and Washington Township. And on June 26, the corps shared, “Congrats to our graduates! We were honored to celebrate (with lights and sirens) members 2nd Lt. Nolan Foley and Marie Paul at their graduation. We also celebrated life membersʼ children Amanda Burns and Grace Mohr. Congrats to all, and we canʼt wait to see where your paths lead you! #Classof2022 #volunteersrock.”

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A circa-1950 view outside the Pine Lodge, Pascack and Ridgewood Roads. The building is still standing and easily recognizable as restaurant Bacari Grill.

Pine Lodge and Apple Blossom Inn <Editor’s note: This feature originally ran in the September 2021 edition of the Pascack Historical Society’s quarterly publication “Relics.” We are reprinting it with grateful permission.

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

LAKE IN THE Township of Washington is widely remembered by longtime residents of the Pascack Valley. After all, the swimming lake at the northwest corner of Pascack and Ridgewood roads was a popular summer destination for 40 years before it closed down in the 1970s, fated to become the site of Pine Lake Condominiums. However, the building on the site — now Bacari Grill — predated Pine Lake founder Wendell Orth. The house was built in 1913 as a private residence for Dr. Edmund Hanks. Born in North Carolina, Hanks had served with the Confederate Army during the Civil War. A dentist by trade, he had an office in New York City and commuted through the Ridgewood train station. In January 1916, he was leaving the Ridgewood station when he drove his car across the tracks in the path of an express train. He was killed instantly. Dr. Hanks was 72 years old. At this point in the annals of local history, the story of the property always jumps straight to Orth buying the land and setting up his swim club. But before there was Pine Lodge, there was the Apple Blossom Inn. At the time, we find ourselves in a much different Township of Washington. In those days before the mid-century building boom, approximately 400 people lived in town. There was no strip mall on Pascack Road, no high school on Ridgewood Road. The township did have its own police marshal — you called him at home in an emergency. There was one little wooden schoolINE

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

“The new inn is a quaint Colonial home with spacious verandas, and a wide expanse of lawn,” the Passaic Daily Herald reported June 1, 1928. “The ballroom and dining hall have been attractively decorated for Saturday nightʼs opening.” The inn was to specialize in chicken and steak dinners prepared by a French chef. There would be dancing and entertainment. This item posted in the Ridgewood Herald this Unlike the inn, which would be open to week in 1929 announces the grand opening of everyone, Sieper and Brennonʼs plan was to the Township of Washington’s new Pine Lodge, turn the rest of the grounds into a membersformerly the Apple Blossom Inn. only country club. The men envisioned guests horseback-riding on bridle paths (they house up on a hill, which is still standing purchased several thoroughbreds for their today as part of the town hall. Washington stables); swimming in the lake; trout fishing Townshipʼs development was slower than in the brooks; and skating and sleighing. that of any other Pascack Valley town, due in In the summer of 1928, groups from all large part to it being off the beaten path from over the area held outings at the newly the Pascack Valley railroad line. opened Apple Blossom Innʼs picnic grounds. Even into the 1930s, it was mostly farm- The Westwood High School senior class held land, forest, and swamp. its end-of-the-year banquet at the inn. The Apple Blossom Inn was a collaboWith the coming of autumn, the Apple rative venture between two Passaic County Blossom Inn advertised dancing season. The heavy-hitters looking to open a place in the Bergen County-based Blue Kitten Orchestra country. There was Frederick Sieper, former furnished jazz music and the cover charge Passaic County parks commissioner and was 50 cents. one-time candidate for Assembly and sheriff, The Ridgewood Herald reported Sept. who had recently retired from political life. 19, 1928, “Coincident with the return of fall, The other half of the partnership was well- comes the welcome announcement that the known businessman William Brennon. The dancing season at Apple Blossom Inn will be men leased 95 acres in Washington Town- open this Saturday, Sept. 22. As everyone ship, the former Hanks property, with the intent of opening an inn and country club. Continued on page 254

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Publisher Editor Staff Writer Contributing Editor Art Director Director of Advertising

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.

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Township Council members promised July 11 to seek new options for storing public works equipment now housed at the recently acquired 6.1-acre Washington Township Recreation and Swim Club property, possibly moving it back to Our Lady of Good Counsel Church after complaints from a resident whose backyard has a prime view of the large equipment and vehicles. Where to store DPW vehicles and equipment locally has been a sore point among officials over the last couple of years as the DPWʼs facility at town hall was demolished and soil excavated and removed due to toxic contamination caused by leaking gasoline storage tanks in the 1970s and 1980s. Until recently, most large and seasonal DPW equipment was stored on leased property at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, leased in April 2021 at a $2,500 monthly cost. After the township acquired the swim club property in April, Mayor Peter Calamari said that council members advised him to move the DPW equipment there to save money. The church lease can be terminated with 30 daysʼ notice,

The former Washington Township Recreation and Swim Club sold to the township this year. Mayor Peter Calamari (inset) says the town’s DPW equipment will stay there until it can be relocated. He said that as the purchase of 95 Linwood Ave. did not work out, he does not see any other local storage sites. On July 11 he asked for suggestions from council and residents. (File) states the contract. (See “Church lease approved; Calamari dinged on DPW parking plan,” April 23, 2021, Pascack Press online.) Also, Calamari revealed July 11 that the townshipʼs architect was drawing up plans for a new DPW facility at town hall, following the councilʼs unanimous June 21 decision to cancel its contract to purchase the 95 Linwood Ave. property (formerly Charlie Brownʼs restaurant) for $1.35 million, following discovery of piping from former gas pumps used on the site. Calamari said there was no timetable to get back draft plans

from architect Arcari Iovino on a new DPW facility. Calamari said he preferred not to keep DPW equipment at the swim club site, instead using it for recreation. However, he said since the purchase of 95 Linwood Ave. did not work out, he did not see any other local storage sites. He asked for suggestions from council and residents. Ridgewood Boulevard North resident Anthony Conti pressed Calamari about whether the stored equipment would be a temporary arrangement, as he previously said, or the equipment and vehicles stored there would be perma-

nent. Conti has a backyard view of all the parked vehicles and equipment. Previously, neighbors to township-owned potential vehicle/equipment storage sites at Sherry Field, and behind the Doghouse Saloon, have opposed storage of the large, heavy vehicles and equipment, citing public safety, health and environmental concerns. Calamari told Conti July 11 that the mostly seasonal DPW equipment and large vehicles — observed from the clubʼs shuttered and dilapidated gated entryway — is “staying there indefinitely” until another suitable site can be found. After Conti asked if he could contact other towns to attempt to find possible storage space for the equipment — a task previously undertaken by Calamari over prior years with no success — Council President Desserie Morgan said

she wanted to look into all possible options for storing DPW equipment locally and nearby. Calamari, Morgan and Council Vice President Stacey Feeney suggested going back to the 35 parking spaces previously leased at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church. Officials noted no other Pascack Valley towns agreed to or had extra storage space for its DPW vehicles. Calamari noted that county officials also said they could not provide space as they would then be obligated to do something similar for all 70 county municipalities. Conti appeared to oppose leasing spaces at OLGC noting there should be “separation” of church and state functions. However, Calamari pointed out that the township also rents space at Bethany Community Center for CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Calamari: DPW inventory to stay at swim club ‘indefinitely’

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

SUPERINTENDENT’S CONTRACT EXTENDED; RETIREES HONORED

on July 12, “I have proudly served the school community in Park Ridge for 12 years and look forward to continue working alongside the students and staff. Park Ridge has a dedicated faculty, accomplished administrators and a talented student body. It has been my honor to serve them.” Gamper said that he specifically requested a contract extension, and will be starting his 13th year with the district.

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PARK RIDGE

Public school trustees have voted a two-year extension of the superintendentʼs contract through 2026, irking some parents who have complained about his management style and his initial reluctance to stand up this yearʼs graduating seniorsʼ portraits at the high school grounds. Eventually, Superintendent Dr. Robert Gamper approved the portrait display to highlight the classʼs graduation and accomplishments. His initial decision prompted hundreds of parents to sign a petition calling on him to reverse his decision. The school board voted, 5-0, on June 20 to extend Gamperʼs contract through 2025-2026, ending 2026 at nearly $260,000 annually, which includes a $9,000 longevity bonus. The 2022-2023 school year marks Gamperʼs 10th year of service. Both the prior and newly approved contracts provide similar bonuses beginning in the 10th year. This includes $8,000 for the 10th year and $9,000 yearly after that through 2026. Gamperʼs original contract ran through 2023-2024 at an ending salary of $239,926 plus a $9,000 longevity bonus that year. The new contract adds two more

Park Ridge High School, 2 W. Park Ave.

years, 2024-2025 at a salary of $244,725, and 2025-2026, at $249,619. Longevity bonuses will be $9,000 for each of the additional two years. The new contract extends the previous one by two years with a 2% increase. Meanwhile, clauses for merit pay and phone reimbursement were removed, board secretary and business administrator Robert Wright told Pascack Press on July 6. At the June 20 meeting the board also honored retirees Diana Garcia (elementary instruction, music) Teresa Greenberg (learning disabilities teacher consultant), and Sharon Smith-Raska (high school English). All will be missed, the board said. Several parents alleged that the added years increased pension contributions, although merit increases (generally 3.33% yearly following approval) were elimi-

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Lovely legacy: At the June 20 meeting of the school board, trustees honored retirees Diana Garcia (elementary instruction, music) Teresa Greenberg (learning disabilities teacher consultant), and Sharon Smith-Raska (high school English). All will be missed, the board said. (PRSD photos.) nated in the new contract. Only annual longevity bonuses remained over the final four years of the contract, upon which annual pension contributions were based, reads the new contract. Prior to approval of Gamperʼs contract, Valerie Halton posted a petition urging parents to rally in favor of posting seniors photos at the high school to honor their graduations, given the struggles with Covid and remote learning that they had encountered in 2020 and 2021. More than 360 individuals signed the petition. Gamper reversed his original position against the photos and approved their posting, said Halton.

In her call for signatories to the petition, Halton called Gamperʼs salary “already astronomical.” In contrast, last year, nj.com reported the top-earning 25 superintendents in New Jersey made $234,000 to $300,000. The average base salary for a superintendent in New Jersey was about $179,204 in 2020–2021, an increase of 4% over the prior year, according to an NJ Advance Media analysis of state data. Gamper was not named in the NJ Advance Media analysis. It has been my honor to serve… Gamper told Pascack Press

Senior portraits and a ʻnormal graduationʼ Halton said that Gamper initially opposed the senior Owlsʼ pictures being posted because the seniors were not affected by Covid-19 this year and he had said that the seniors needed to have a “normal graduation.” She also said that he told her his initial decision to oppose the display of senior photos was not based on cost. In an email response, BOE president David Bradler wrote that the board had only “recently” learned about the senior pictures decision, adding “but the board is fully cognizant of the communityʼs response towards this issue.” He said he would share Haltonʼs concerns with trustees and Gamper when he spoke to them. “I am sorry that you had an unpleasant experience with Dr. Gamper. When I speak with Dr. Gamper, I will address the fact that you felt disrespected and that you feel that your concerns were not being treated fairly,” Bradler assured Halton.

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Borough community center and pool eyed for 2024 MONTVALE

Mayor Michael Ghassali unveiled a preliminary $15 million plan for a new community center and town pool at the July 12 Borough Council meeting, saying “an overwhelming majority of the public” are in favor of the new recreational facilities. Ghassali told Pascack Press that cost estimates developed by

off Memorial Drive. He said he anticipated the borough bonding for the new amenities and not holding a referendum. He said major repairs were needed at the existing senior center, and it made sense to replace the entire building as well as add a new town pool, which has been long-sought by residents. Ghassali said a committee would be formed at the July 26 council meeting to represent “all town entities, including the seniors, the scouts, the Athletic

In an email to residents July 13, Ghassali said, “About 50 residents attended our [July 12] mayor and council meeting with the overwhelming majority of the public and with the council unani-

mously approving to proceed with planning for our new community and senior center and a town pool.” He said, “This was to only approve the concept and the foot-

print of the complex” and that the design, colors, number of slides, “and all the details about grass vs. concrete, etc.” will follow. He said if planning for the CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

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JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Possible $40M to borough in redevelopment pact; vote Aug. 9 BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

A redevelopment agreement and long-term financial agreement to construct a 255-unit luxury apartment complex on a former waste transfer site on Patterson Street — estimated to generate nearly $40 million for the borough over three decades — was introduced with positive reviews from borough professionals at the July 12 Borough Council meeting. Midway through the redevelopment presentation, Acacia Financial Group managing partner Jennifer Edwards said that the 30year financial agreement being proposed would provide estimated annual revenues of $735,000, which adds up to nearly $40 million in revenues over the agreement. Edwards, a financial consultant, has worked with the borough Negotiating Committee, and redevelopment counsel Joseph Bauman, in negotiating financial terms on the redevelopment. A public hearing and council vote on a long-term financial

agreement, also known as a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement, will be at the Aug. 9 council meeting. Prior to that, officials promised to post the financial agreements online at the borough website for public review. Generally, council meetings are posted the next day on the borough website. If the agreements are approved on Aug. 9, the redeveloper must apply with a full site plan application to the Planning Board for its review and approval at future public meetings. The Planning Board review will be based on guidelines and zoning in the Hillsdale-Patterson Street Redevelopment Plan, which supersedes local zoning. The redevelopment proposal provides 20 affordable housing units onsite, along with “community benefits” such as a public park on the corner of Patterson Street and Piermont Avenue and a community center at the complexʼs northeast corner, fronting Patterson Street and Knickerbocker Avenue. The complex includes 381 off-street and on-street parking spaces. In addition, officials said the

redevelopment agreement provides for three payments of $250,000 each — for a total of $750,000 — to the borough based on specific project milestones. Council also approved the hiring of DMR Architects for “not to exceed $199,000” to provide design services for a second community/senior center to be built at the Stonybrook Swim Club, though that move faced some public questioning and criticism at the meeting. Ruocco opposed the resolution (see his letter to the editor) along with councilman Zoltan Horvath, but the motion was approved, 5-1. Moreover, members Frank Pizzella and John Escobar urged seniors opposed to a so-called “second” community center at Stonybrook Pool to come to the Aug. 9 council meeting and tell council they do not want a center. Both believed that seniors wanted their own “space” and a separate facility. Joseph Bauman, borough special redevelopment counsel, said the redevelopment agreement includes two phases. Phase I will be the approval and construction of a 255-unit, three- and four-story luxury apartment complex. Bauman said as part of a density bonus granted the redeveloper (Patterson Street Urban Renewal LLC) which is an affiliate of CP Hillsdale LLC, comprised of Claremont Development and March Development, both or Morristown, a 5,000-square-foot indoor community center and 3,000-foot outdoor area will be built, with a 99-year lease to the borough.

He called it “one of the significant givebacks to the community.” He said a council subcommittee would help design the community center space. A redevelopment agreement Phase II would be to allow the redeveloper a one-year timeline to acquire properties needed for construction of a 30,000-square-foot self-storage facility. He said should the redeveloper not acquire the needed properties, this development will not occur. Jennifer Edwards, managing director, Acacia FInancial Group, said the financial agreement was “properly sized” for the project. She said the initial financial agreement proposed provides 95% of revenues to Hillsdale and 5% to Bergen County. She said the redeveloper asked “for a land and improvement exemption” for a 30-year period. She said the borough will receive 10% of the developmentʼs annual gross revenue in years 1–10; 11% in years 11–20; 12% in years 21–23; 13% in years 24–25; 14% in years 26–27; and 15% from years 28–30. She said the boroughʼs firstyear revenues would be estimated at $736,000, based on current unit rents. She said the borough will increase its annual tax income by nearly $700,000 annually. She said by year 16, the agreement provides incentives to move the property owner slowly back to paying conventional taxes, while providing maximum tax revenue to Hillsdale. She said should rental income drop, the minimum annual tax payment to Hillsdale will be $500,000. “It will not drop any

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further than that,” she said. Edwards said the borough will receive an annual 2% “administrative fee” calculated on top of the annual tax payment. She noted the borough will receive $735,000 in revenues from the redevelopment versus previously only $35,000. That accumulates to “just under $40 million for the borough” over the 30-year financial agreement, she estimated. “Quite a substantial improvement from where we started with the developer,” Edwards noted. She said the borough would be getting an estimated $4 million more over the PILOT financial agreement due to adjustments they made. She said the redevelopment “would not make any impact” to local emergency services needs, noting a new ambulance and new fire truck were already being discussed. She said the project “was not the sole contributing factor for additional police” though more officers will be needed as local population increases. Officials also noted, based on Rutgers University studies, the 255-unit, high-end complex, should likely only generate a maximum of 17 school-age children, based on the mix of marketrate and affordable units. She said the additional tax revenues flowing from the redevelopment should allow the town “to absorb any additional costs” for the increase in school-age children. DMR Architect Francis Reiner also detailed what Planning Board recommendations were accepted or rejected by the council in the re-introduced Ordinance 22-11 amendments to the Redevelopment Plan. The amendments were requested by the redeveloper, and reviewed by the Planning Board for consistency with the borough Master Plan. Public weighs in Much public comment focused on Resolution 22149 that

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Sc h ool News

Life’s work: Kalfus, Larghi are scholarship winners nearly 15 consecutive years. “Dominiqueʼs dream job was to work at St. Judeʼs Children's Research Hospital. She felt she could provide care and love to the children being treated there and be a source of strength and support for the parents and families as well,” said Gina. She added, “We will continue her legacy for her passion of helping children with much gratitude for all those who continue to support Dominiqueʼs Journey.” The scholarship — now in its third year — is open to senior students who want to pursue a degree in the medical or healthcare field. “Dominique was well on her way to changing the world and we would like to be a part of helping others achieve this dream,” Gina said.

FROM PAGE 1

The winners and their essays We last wrote about Kalfus, of River Vale, on the occasion of her third-place win of a 2022 STANJ Governorʼs Award for her comedic monologue as Madison in Pascack Valley Regional High Schoolʼs performance of “Night Night, Roger Roger.” Larghi survived sudden cardiac arrest at school on March 8, 2021, credit for her save going to educators, EMTs, and police (all of whom were honored at the school board meeting of that May

24). Her family, through the Butch Mancini Foundation, arranges heart screenings for all students at PRHS. Sheʼll be going to Marist College. With the authorsʼ permission, here are their essays:

Lauren Kalfus medical bracelets and five rolls of pink gauze bandage. This array of items is what I see when I open the Payless shoebox that I keep tucked away under my bed. These unusual keepsakes are my “Infusion Center Souvenirs,” or at least thatʼs the name I came up with when I was 9 years old. While it may seem silly to hold on to seemingly meaningless items such as unused medical supplies and plastic bracelets, I cannot fathom dooming them to the trash on garbage day. When I was 9 years old I was diagnosed with Crohnʼs disease. I was unsure what treatments and appointments I had ahead of me, but my time spent in a place where most people dreaded going was actually the highlight of my whole experience. The doctorsʼ offices and emergency rooms have always fascinated me in a way that no other place has. I appreciated the organized chaos of an incoming emergency with doctors and nurses flocking to a patient, ready to help. I found comfort in the presence of procedures and IFTY-SEVEN

by seeking out programs that could expose me to the depths of the medical field.

ness I know what it is like to walk into a hospital, unsure of what lies ahead of you that day. As a healthcare professional, I am confident that I know what will and will not work to comfort the patients that walk into my hospital. In the fall, I will be attending the University of Rhode Island as a nursing major to work toward making a difference in the lives of any patient that crosses my path and following in the footsteps of every nurse that has changed the course of my life. If I can make a difference in one personʼs life, either physically or mentally, every day that I am on Paying it forward: Left, Lauren Kalfus in a moment from Pascack Valley’s the job, then I know I will be fulrecent performance of “Night Night, Roger Roger,” for which she won a 2022 filling my own definition of sucSTANJ Governor’s Award for her comedic monologue. Right, Gina Franco concess. gratulates Park Ridge High School’s Nicole Larghi for winning one of two Dominique’s Journey Scholarships. Kalfus won the other. Both are going to colNicole Larghi lege to prepare for careers in health care. (Courtesy photos) INCE MY heart disease diagI incorporated my engrossnosis at age 6 I have been time, I was immediately met by a compassionate and skilled team of ment into my work with the Chil- greatly informed on the facts of nurses that swayed me from ever drenʼs Cardiomyopathy Founda- heart complications. I have fearing a treatment or hospital by tion, where I raised money and always heard the staggering stagiving me such a positive experi- awareness through walk-a-thons tistic that only one in 10 people and event planning. I read articles will survive a sudden cardiac ence. Since that first treatment, I on children diagnosed with this arrest. Being one of the 10 who have been fascinated by all things devastating disease and the lasting was fortunate enough to survive, related to medical care. This effects it had on not only the child I feel empowered to change that curiosity left mediocre stitches on but on the family as well. In those horrifying statistic for others. One reason survival is so my teddy bears and bruises from articles, I would see anecdotes mock injections on my fatherʼs about nurses that helped these low is because people do not families along the entire way, and know CPR, or they are afraid to arms. By the time I reached high I knew that I would be the caregiv- do it wrong. So instead, they do school it was clear that I belonged er in the articles one day. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 As a child with a chronic illin scrubs. I affirmed my passion detailed plans. Walking into Ruttenberg Treatment Center for the first

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

12 PASCACK VALLEY

Setting the standard in dental therapy

Dental implants are not all the same and have varying success rates. The success is dependent on the product and the practitioner. As a periodonPRIYU GUPTA, DDS, tist, which is the WESTWOOD ONLY specialty PERIODONTICS recognized by the American Dental Association as a “dental implant specialist,” I feel it is important to inform the com-

munity about how dental implant treatments have changed over the past 50 years causing a decline in success. Dental implants have been well researched and placed in patients by periodontist and oral surgeons since the 1970s. The published scientific literature in the ʼ70s and ʼ80s estimated 9799% success rates when controlled for certain systemic diseases & smoking. More recently, the success rates have gone down while research and knowledge

has increased. In 2007, I graduated from a full-time three-year dental implant specialty training program from Rutgers Dental School called Periodontics. This was in addition to general dental school. At the time, only a handful of companies were fabricating dental implants. These companies were partnered with universities, periodontists and oral surgeons for decades to establish research to prove that their products met or exceeded the standard of care

Leave it to the Specialists for your dental implants!

which was 97-99% success rate for 20-plus years. Periodontists followed up on the implants for decades to see how the implants lasted in patientsʼ mouths: to see if gum disease developed or affected them, if loss of an adjacent tooth affected them, if the implant suffered consequences from smoking or if added to a denture. This is all the knowledge which is taught at a university level and takes years to learn. If implants are meant to last forever, it must be handled in such a manner and treatment planned accordingly anticipating changes to a patientʼs dentition and aging. Today many more companies are fabricating these implants and come from overseas with little to no research proving their product has the same level success. This is completely legal through the FDA 501(k) approval process which allows clearance to sell the product. But this should not preclude the company to perform some level of research to protect the public. These “knock-off” implants are much cheaper and have not taken initiative to prove their success. What is also happening is

that these implant companies and private companies are offering short term “training programs” to general dentists in attempts to sell more product so generalists can do these surgical services at their. In my opinion, as dental implants are meant to be a permanent tooth replacement option, it is important to go to a trained specialist, who is a periodontist, who has the science and university-based training and the opportunity to practice these procedures hundreds of times on patients before a private practice setting. I am a solo, female, dental implant specialist, surgeon & periodontist. I am a lead to a team of four hygienists, each with over 25 years of experience. I place hundreds of dental implants a year and follow them in my highly trained hygiene practice. I partner with many general dentists throughout Bergen County to design, perform and maintain complex dental implant restorations. For more information, call (201) 664-3023 or visit us at 354 Old Hook Road #201 or WestwoodPeriodontics.com.

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ST. THOMAS MORE COUNCIL EVENTS

Hereʼs whatʼs going on this July at St. Thomas More Council 2188: • July 31: Last day to order your Smokinʼ Gun Coffee in recognition of the Feast of St. Maximillian Kolbe. $12 for a bag of whole

or ground beans, $18 for a box of 24 K-cups. Free front door delivery to Westwood, Hillsdale and Emerson. Proceeds to NJ Catholic Choirs. To order, call or text Jay at (973) 760-3166.

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JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

eats PASCACK VALLEY

Dining & Cooking Guide

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

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

SURF ‘N TURF LAND & SEA What youʼll need:

• 6 oz. filet mignon • 4 oz. marsala wine • 6 oz. lobster tail • 1 stick of butter, melted for lobster • Shikake, portabello and domestic mushrooms • 1 tbsp. Olive oil

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• Broil lobster tail 4 minutes (2 minutes each side). Serve with melted butter.

•Broil filet mignon on both sides 5–10 min. each side. Saute

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mushrooms in olive oil. Add marsala wine. Serve with fresh vegetables and mashed potatoes • Buon Appetito! Giulioʼs Restaurant is located at 154 Washington Street, Tappan

Visit Giulioʼs website for its m e n u : www.giuliosrestaurant.com For reservations, takeout, catering, and more, call (845) 359-3657.

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

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Dining & Cooking Guide

Although its name is Johnʼs Famous Bagels & Deli, most customers know it simply as the source of their favorite bagels—famous or not. Celebrating 23 years of providing their famous bagels to Pascack Valley customers, co-owners Aiman “John” Abdelwahed and Hazem “Adam” Megahed are giving back to the community by offering discounts and a menu of specials. Throughout July, customers at Johnʼs two locations are offered coupons for discounts on breakfast sandwiches, bagel weekend specials, all-week bagel discounts; sales on whitefish salad, Nova salmon, and cold cuts; and 20 percent off on catering. More than two decades after opening their first store in Park Ridge, Adam conservatively estimates that in baking 11,000 bagels per week, 47,000 per month, and more than half a million bagels per year, Johnʼs likely has turned out more than 13 million bagels. “Doing the math, Adam is surprised: "Thatʼs a lot of bagels. I didnʼt know we made that many!” At two Pascack Valley locations—183 Kinderkamack Road in Park Ridge and 94 Broadway in Woodcliff Lake—these friendly bagel stores and delicatessens offers spreads, wraps, salads, grilled items, specialty sandwiches, breakfast sandwiches, bakery selections, and a full catering menu. Adam says the shopsʼ bagels are homemade throughout the day, as are spreads, salads, and sandwiches. Bagels come in various festive colors for the holidays, such as red for Valentineʼs Day, green for St. Patrickʼs Day, and orange for Halloween. The all-inclusive rainbowcolored bagel is available to enjoy every day. Adam says low-carbohydrate and gluten-free bagels are also available. His favorite: an everything bagel with cream cheese, Nova salmon, onion, and tomato. Adam says weekends generally find him baking bagels all day, as

In Park Ridge: 183 Kinderkamack Road. (201) 930-4940.

John’s Famous Bagels co-owners Hazem “Adam” Megahed (left) and Aiman “John” Abdelwahed are celebrating 23 years in business. Their two locations—convenienetly sited in Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake— serve the Pascack Valley’s bagel lovers.

tuna bagel with grape jelly. “Bagels make everyone happy in their own way,” he says. And the shops regularly donate bagels to local community

customers expect fresh-out-of-the oven New Jersey favorites— whether singly, by the bag, or in larger quantities for weekend par-

events and organizations. Thatʼs no surprise, as Johnʼs Famous Bagels & Deli also is famous for supporting local sports teams and donating to volunteer groups. Behind every successful fundraiser youʼll find Johnʼs Famous Bagels & Deli supporting the community.

In Woodcliff Lake: 94 Broadway. (201) 746-6257.

ties and other special occasions. Over the years, Adam has heard some novel requests, including a tuna bagel with ketchup and a

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When you go Find Johnʼs Famous Bagels at 183 Kinderkamack Road in Park Ridge (call 201-930-4940) and 94 Broadway in Woodcliff Lake (call 201-746-6257).

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

eats John’s Famous Bagels celebrates 23rd anniversary

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

CONSIDER THESE THREE SUGGESTIONS IF YOU INHERIT A TRUST

David “Chico” Esparza, Senior Fiduciary Advisory Specialist with Wells Fargo Private Bank, remembers meeting two clients, a ERIC KOHLMEIER brother and sister whose parents had passed away. “Unfortunately, their parents had not discussed their estate plans with the adult children. When the siblings learned they were

the beneficiaries of a sizable trust,” Esparza recalls, “they had no idea what to do next.” The brother and sister had many questions. Who handles the estate? What are the terms of the trust? And what should their next steps be? “Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., was the trustee, so we explained the timeline and process for settling the trust estate,” Esparza says. “It helped to ease their minds to know that professionals would be handling everything.”

As Esparzaʼs clients found, stepping into the role of beneficiary can feel a bit like stepping into the unknown. Here, Esparza offers three suggestions to ease the process.

Build an advisory team A good first step for the beneficiary is to meet with the trustee who is tasked with executing the terms of the trust. It may be an individual, such as a CPA or lawyer, family member, or a corporate trustee. “There will be a lot of questions,

so itʼs important to establish a communication plan and a general timeframe for how long it will take to settle the estate,” Esparza says. In some instances, once the estate is settled, a new trust is funded with the beneficiaryʼs share of the estate; in other cases, assets will be distributed outright to the beneficiary. If the assets will be retained in trust, the trustee typically collaborates with an investment advisor to help manage the assets according to the terms of the trust. “The trustee and investment advisor will create a plan that is based on the terms of the trust and considers the needs of the beneficiary,” Esparza says. “Beneficiaries also should consider seeking the guidance of a tax consultant regarding tax implications related to trust distribution.”

Understand the terms of the trust One of the first questions a beneficiary might have for the advisory team is, “What does the trust mean for me?” Esparza explains that a trust is a useful tool for holding, managing, and distributing property as outlined by the trustor(s) - the creator(s) of the trust - in the trust agreement, but each trust is unique in how assets can be distributed to beneficiaries. It is important to understand the terms of the trust. Some key trust aspects to discuss include: • Beneficiary or beneficiaries: Is there a sole or several beneficiaries of the trust? How do the terms address the rights different beneficiaries have to distributions from the trust? • Age restrictions: Does the beneficiary have to reach a certain age before accessing some or all of the trust? • Distribution restrictions: Can beneficiaries access the principal or just the income from the trust? Does the beneficiary need to provide the trustee with proof of the beneficiaryʼs own income and expenses to receive distributions? What categories of expenses can the trust cover for the beneficiary? For what reasons may distributions be adjusted? • Lifetime of the trust: Does the trust terminate once the beneficiary reaches a certain age, or is it meant to last the beneficiaryʼs lifetime? Is any portion of the trust designated for future generations? “Trusts are an opportunity to build generational wealth, not only for the trustor but also for the beneficiary,” Esparza says. “For that reason, the trustee should be thoughtful in administrating the trust to help the funds last not only through beneficiaryʼs lifetime but also potentially for future generations.” Ask questions before taking distributions “Before taking a trust distribution, some beneficiaries find it useful to inquire about the potential tax consequences. Thatʼs where a tax advisor should provide guidance,” Esparza says. “Beneficiaries also may consid-

er consulting with the trustee and investment advisor about additional considerations or impacts a trust distribution may have.” In addition, beneficiaries should consult with their own legal counsel if they have specific questions regarding their rights with respect to a trust or the possible impact of a trust distribution. Esparza shares the story of a young beneficiary who wanted to use her trust fund to purchase a luxury car when she turned 16. “As trustee, I posed this question: ʻWould a less-expensive car meet your transportation goals and preserve trust assets for the long term?ʼ” he says. “It is important for beneficiaries to stay connected with the trustee and to ask clarifying questions so they understand the impact certain distributions may have to the trust. As a fiduciary, a trustee is there to educate and can help the trust sustain longer term financial well-being for the beneficiary.” Wells Fargo Private Bank offers products and services through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, and its various affiliates and subsidiaries. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. is a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. offers various advisory and fiduciary products and services including discretionary portfolio management. Wells Fargo affiliates, including financial advisors of Wells Fargo Advisors, a separate non-bank affiliate, may be paid an ongoing or onetime referral fee in relation to clients referred to the bank. The bank is responsible for the day-to-day management of the account and for providing investment advice, investment management services, and wealth management services to clients. The role of the financial advisor with respect to the Bank products and services is limited to referral and relationship management services. Some of The Private Bank experiences may be available to clients of Wells Fargo Advisors without a relationship with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Wells Fargo & Company and its affiliates do not provide legal or tax advice. Wells Fargo Advisors is not a legal or tax advisor. Please consult your legal advisors to determine how this information may apply to your own situation. Whether any planned tax result is realized by you depends on the specific facts of your own situation at the time your taxes are prepared. Trust services available through banking and trust affiliates in addition to non-affiliated companies of Wells Fargo Advisors. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state. This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director - Investments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.

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recreational programs. Calamari revealed that Boswell Engineering was conducting a study on the swim club and Memorial Field, and will make recommendations to improve both. He said he had no timeline for study completion. Calamari told Morgan he would provide more information at the next council meeting Aug. 15 on equipment storage costs at OLGC. Morgan said if preliminary DPW plans for town hall were available then, they would

FROM PAGE 5

have a better estimate of storage space needed to be leased at OLGC. Morgan said the township did not “want to rent space indefinitely” and hoped that an architectural drawing for a new DPW facility could offer “an efficient usage of space” at town hall, and then officials could renegotiate with the church for less space rental. Announcing on May 11 that the town had cancelled its lease with OLGC and was moving DPW equipment to the swim club, Calamari said, “I understand this may be a less than ideal situation

for some of the local residents. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we move towards creating a new DPW facility. And once again, you have my commitment that DPW operations will NOT be located at the swim club property.” He added, “I would also like to inform you that I have spoken

with our grant writer who assured me that storing the equipment there will NOT hinder or interfere with our Bergen County Open Space Grant application to recover the cost of acquiring the swim club property.” And he said, “As I have stated numerous times, the town will be conducting a full study and assess-

ment of all our fields and facilities, including the former swim club. We will explore the costs and benefits of various uses and upgrades. In the meantime, we will continue to use this newly acquired township property for seasonal storage to avoid any unnecessary expenses to the taxpayers.”

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JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

eats DPW: Mayor says materiel will stay at swim club

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Hillsdale: $40M to borough in redevelopment? hired DMR Architects for approximately $199,000 to provide architectural services for two site plan designs for a future community center at Stonybrook Pool. Ruocco said an estimated $2 million

FROM PAGE 8

has been set aside for such a future center. Ruocco criticized the resolution as a “second community center” which riled most council members, who stated that they had long pushed for a community center to be used mostly by senior

RIVER VALE

DETOURS IN GEAR FOR RIVERVALE ROAD

Resdients are advised that “tentatively” beginning on Monday July 18, PSEG Gas will be conducting road/utility work on Rivervale Road from Holdrum Middle School to Piermont Avenue. The road work is projected to last approximately 2 1⁄ 2 weeks. The township says, “River Vale police officers will be present to conduct traffic control and assist

residents who reside in the affected area in accessing their homes.” Town Hall will be open. Access through Rivervale Road following the posted detours (Detour is subject to change over the duration of project). River Vale police also will be assisting residents and ensuring their safety during the duration of the project. For more information reach out to the RVPD.

residents. Councilman Frank Pizzella said the resolution hiring DMR to design a center was more for a senior center than a community center, and that the council always wanted a community space for seniors. A community center is planned to be built and provided as part of the 255-unit, luxury apartment complex proposed, which is a “community benefit” provided to Hillsdale for the “bonus density” granted to the redeveloper to construct a 255unit, three- and four-story twobuilding multifamily luxury rental complex. Some residents raised concerns about increased traffic and whether traffic studies will be available prior to the Aug. 9 public hearing on the redevelopment financial agreement. Resident Marc Goldberg questioned how annual revenues coming from the redeveloper will

be audited. Bauman said the redeveloper will pay fees to the borough so it can hire auditors to verify the financial statements and payments coming to the borough. Goldberg suggested the redeveloper should contribute toward any new ambulance or fire truck needed locally. While some residents expressed concern about how many seniors favored a senior center, which was disputed by Ruocco and the council majority (excluding Horvath), some said they did not see the need for a separate senior center, while council members said they had mostly heard from local seniors who strongly favored such a center. Concerns about maintaining a second community/senior center, as well as staffing or programming at the center, were also raised as possible obstacles to a separate facility for seniors at Stonybrook Pool.

Another resident questioned how much actual community support existed for a separate community center for seniors. One resident calling in on Zoom wondered whether future rising rents at the 255-unit luxury rental complex might cause apartment vacancies and revenues to fall for the borough. Ruocco told her that the minimum annual payment to Hillsdale would be $500,000, unrelated to building occupancy. She cited issues with rising annual rents at The James, a fivestory, mixed-use, 240-unit residential/retail complex in Park Ridge, causing problems for tenants. Claremont Development built and previously managed the Park Ridge luxury apartment complex. Ruocco said he “could not predict the future on that” and declined to give additional comment.

nothing. This January, I had the opportunity to attend Parent Heart Watch Conference. This is mostly a group of people who have either lost someone to sudden cardiac arrest or survived one. All the people that are there share a common goal to eliminate sudden cardiac arrest deaths in youth. Many of them focus their energy on CPR and AED training so that bystanders know what to do in these circumstances.

These people and their missions amaze me, and I strive to be like them. I want to educate and empower people to save lives, despite the panic of the moment. While at the conference, I met leaders of many non-profit organizations and representatives of AED companies. I quickly began to desire change and asked for guidance on how to do so. The mission will be challenging, but I know that I can accomplish all that I want if I take small steps. Fortunately, I am already headed in the right direction and

have begun to spread my message. The AED company Zoll interviewed me for their “Global EMS Resuscitation Summit: Small Patients, Big Impact!” I explained my plans and how I intend to help fix the horrifying medical statistics of sudden cardiac arrest. I know that by continuing to use my voice and sharing my experiences I can make a big impact. Being one of the lucky ones, it feels like my responsibility to make a difference in the world.

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new facilities finishes this year, he anticipates construction to begin sometime between April to June 2023. If that occurs, he said completion of the community center and pool were estimated to take 12–16 months, likely finishing by late 2024. “Iʼm very excited about this, itʼs something we really need,” the mayor said. Ghassali said the town must still submit its site plan application to the Joint Planning Board

FROM PAGE 7

WESTWOOD

Courtesy Madeline Ciocco

DECK THE HALLS! Barbara Marino, 2nd vice president Joanne Toole, and Madeleine Ciocco, members of the GFWC/NJSFWC The Woman’s Club of Westwood, recently decorated a Christmas tree for the club’s Christmas in July: The ladies tell Pascack Press, “During the month of July, the club will be collecting various items at the CVS pharmacy in Westwood to be sent to our troops in the Middle East. Christmas stockings will be filled with non-perishable items and delivered to the troops in time for Christmas.” The club says it’s working with Operation Yellow Ribbon, a non-profit organization staffed by dedicated volunteers. For more information about the club and its activities, call (201) 916-1580.

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for consistency with the Master Plan, review and approval before construction begins. “Our goal is to have this center up and running by the end of 2024. A replay of the July 12 meeting will be on Optimum 77 and Fios 35, and on the townʼs YouTube channel in a few days,” said Ghassali. He promised to post the link. Prior to July 12, Ghassali said that the previous town pool was run by a not-for-profit. He said despite efforts by the borough to “save the pool in 2016,” rising

expenses and declining memberships forced it to shutter in 2017. “Every summer, I receive questions from residents as to why we do not have a town pool or a place for youth activities while the neighboring towns do. This new community center and the town pool are just a concept.” He said, “If the community wants it, then we will go ahead and begin a more comprehensive planning process to evaluate the costs of construction, maintenance and management of a new recreation complex.”

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Christmas in July Pool: Committee forming

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide ADVERTISER CONTENT

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Are you aware that the body reacts to stress like it reacts to illness? If you are sick, your weaknesses get exposed. For some people, DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & their weakness may be pain, for BODY others, it may be sleep or fatigue, for some it is memory and focus, and for others, their weakness is digestion. Since emotional stress weakens the immune system and makes you more prone to getting sick, many physical symptoms may occur even if it is an emotional stress. The most common emotional stresses are sickness, death, divorce, money, moving, marriage, children, and a bad job. Some stresses are unavoidable, but for some you may need to take action. Since one of the best ways to prevent sickness and more emotional consequences is to keep your immune system strong, taking the time to reduce stress in your life can make a big impact on preventing diseases like cancer, heart disease, Alzheimerʼs disease. The four most important stressors are physical, emotional, electromagnetic radiation, and bio-

chemical. In regard to physical stress, we must always think about balance. Make sure if you carry your bag on the right side on Monday, you change it up and carry it on the left side on Tuesday. If you use the mouse for your computer on the right side during July, make sure you change it to the left side during the month of August. If you play golf and are always swinging righty, I recommend taking some time to practice swinging lefty so you are not always twisting the body in one direction. The body is an amazing machine. It is able to heal itself, process food that we eat and convert it to energy, and also think, plan, and do complex tasks. Think of the body as a car — if you donʼt give it the right gas, get frequent oil changes, check the alignment, or keep up with maintenance, an otherwise perfect car will break down. You only get one body in your lifetime, so make sure you take good care of it now, and it will take really good care of you later. You might think, “Well, Iʼm not putting my body through that much physical stress,” but thatʼs not necessarily true. Everything we do, from carrying groceries to taking out the garbage has the

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potential to put stress on the body. Watching TV and working at a computer put a lot of stress on your body, as well. Do daily tasks with care. Consider your posture when youʼre talking on the phone or texting. Definitely do not look down at the phone and try to keep it in front of you at eye level. If, while talking on the phone, you tilt your neck, youʼre not only stressing the muscles of the neck but all the muscles of the body. Instead, you can use headphones to keep your hands free without straining your body. If you drive long distances, pay attention to how youʼre sitting. Are you leaning into one side of your back or slouching? This twisting of the spine can affect the muscles as well as the body. Many people sleep or work in a twisted or compressed position, as well. E-mail us at info@kaplanbrainandbody.com if you are interested in purchasing lumbar support cushions for work, car cush-

ions for driving, or knee cushions to fix proper sleeping position. Mention this article to receive any of these ergonomic pillows for $50 off during the entire month of July. If you need to sit, make sure you have a good, ergonomic chair. Consider transitioning to a hybrid desk that can be a seated or standing desk. But even at a minimum, stand up every hour and stretch or roll your shoulders backwards for at least 30 seconds. You might not think that small changes can help you prevent cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimerʼs disease, but they are maintenance for the body. The benefits might not seem significant at first, but eventually it all pays off. Becoming aware of how we put physical stress on our bodies is great prevention – and great practice for slowing down and considering how we treat our bodies. To reduce biochemical stress, buy organic foods, as well as

grass-fed meat, free-roaming poultry and eggs, and wild fish. Avoid prepared foods and take-out food. Transition your cookware to iron cast or stainless steel, use glass storage containers instead of plastic containers, use stainless steel or glass water bottles instead of plastic water bottles, and avoid the beauty and cleaning products that are filled with harsh chemicals.

Act now! To learn about natural therapies to reduce stress that do not involve drugs or surgery, call (201) 261-2150 to receive a qEEG brain mapping, a VNG brain test, and a physical and neurological evaluation for $97 (normally $800 total). You must mention this article because it is only for July and available to the first seven people who respond. Visit our YouTube channel — Kaplan Brain & Body —for videos on these topics and for more information!

PASCACK VALLEY

BERGEN VOLUNTEERS PLAN FUN ‘AN AFFAIR OF THE HEARTS’ SEPT. 17

Bergen Volunteers announces its 2022 signature event, An Affair of the Hearts, Saturday, Sept.17 at Powerhouse Studios in Paramus. The evening will include casino games, auction items, dinner, dancing, and more. Tickets are available for purchase at bergenvolunteers.org/casinonight. Three honorees will receive awards during this event: David Warshaw will be honored with the From the Heart Award. SHARP will receive the Community Partner Award. Hackensack Meridian

at Hackensack University Medical Center will be presented the Community Impact Award. Proceeds from this event will support the many programs of Bergen Volunteers that make it possible for seniors to age in place, through creating a safe living environment and combating isolation. Bergen Volunteers is grateful to event sponsors SHARP, Hackensack Meridian Health at Hackensack University Medical Center, PNC Bank, and Provident Bank. Sponsorship opportunities are

available. If you are interested in An Affair of the Hearts, purchasing a journal ad, donating an auction item, or sponsoring the event visit bergenvolunteers.org/sponsorship or write Ann-Marie at ajonas@bergenvolunteers.org. Bergen Volunteers is a New Jersey 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 1966 to improve lives and strengthen communities through matching needs with resources, both through in-house programming, and work with agency partners. Get involved!

MONTVALE

RIVER VALE

The Township says the following recyclable items are permitted to be dropped off and collected: • Commingled: Properly Rinsed Aluminum and Tin Cans, Glass and Plastic #1, 2, and 5 only. No plastic bags. • Paper: Newspaper, books, broken-down cardboard boxes. Please make sure boxes are flattened and do not contain packing materials nor anything else. • On Thursdays, DPW offers collection of white goods (large appliances such as washing machines) and metal goods only. Call DPW to schedule. The Township says, “We encourage you to utilize the Townshipʼs Curbside Recycling Service whenever possible. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation.”

The River Vale Recycling Center, at 320 Rivervale Road (the DPW building), has dumpsters for residents to drop off recyclables only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Township says itʼs being fined “contamination” charges by its recycling provider due to dirty items and debris being wrongfully and repeatedly discarded at the Township Recycling Center. If the discarding of debris continues, the Township may permanently close the recycling center. According to a notice mailed out July 13, “There is no garbage dump in River Vale. If you have items to be discarded that don't meet the recycling criteria, please contact your garbage collection provider.”

STREET FAIR

The Montvale Street Fair, originally set for Sunday, June 12, was postponed to Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Paragon Drive. According to Ghassali, some vendors and ride operators preferred to postpone over weather concerns. With all the events around Bergen and Rockland County, the Montvale Street Fair is one of the

POSTPONED TO

most popular events of the season! The fair expects to attract more than 20,000 people from all over the region. Wegmans Food Market is the 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

OCT. 23

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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Congratulations to Emerson softball’s 3rd and 4th grade summer travel team, which just won the Ramsey Rumble softball tournament. The Family Town’s powerhouse team went 40 over two days and scoed 27 total runs while giving up only three. Emerson won, 3-0, in the finals against Ramsey. Pictured Back to front, left to right, are assistant coaches Aslan Perez and Mike Carcich, head coach Tom Mulhern, assistant coach Steve Viggiani; players Alyssa Mulhern, Lauren Bianchi, Ella Viggiani, Lianna Youmans, Sara Dauble, Katie Tucker, Kylie Mulhern, Miranda Gray, Lexi Perez, Hailey Carcich, Jackie Giella, Lila Manning, and Olivia Kim. Not pictured: assistant coach Jon Gray.

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HUB: Westwood OKs downtown EV chargers trical service feeding each station will provide full charging without power sharing. He said power sharing lengthens the time it takes to reach full charge and is less desirable for this application. “Fully powered Level 2 chargers are especially suitable, and efficient, for downtown installations, where parking is at a premium and two- or three-hour maximum meter times are in effect,” Arroyo said. “There was some concern at council as to whether there was sufficient demand for 12 ports. The question was whether we would needlessly be taking parking stalls out of general service,” he said in April. He added, “But the governing body wisely decided to install this infrastructure now, anticipating growth in demand for this service. We also think of it as an amenity that will make the CBD more attractive as a destination.” Arroyo said, quoting “Field of Dreams,” “ʻIf you build it, they will come.ʼ Installing these ports will make Westwood the only public electric charging station in New Jersey north of New Milford, between the parkway and Closter.” To fund this initiative, the borough will purse PSEGʼs Make Ready grant program. “We are working closely with renowned industry vendor Blink and the installation target is late spring of this year,” he said. Resident John OʼSullivan was tapped to manage the project. Arroyo said OʼSullivan has extensive experience in this field as a former equity partner in an EV charging startup. “John now heads a company installing EV infrastructure nationwide. We could not be more fortunate to have him coordinating

FROM PAGE 1

Westwoodʼs first installation of EV charging stations,” said Arroyo. He added kudos to Hodges, Westwood Parking Authority interim administrator Carol Knubel, Parking Authority member Joe Letizia, “and all the members of the PA for laying the groundwork for this important initiative.” After the June 28 council meeting, at which the resolutions were passed, Arroyo thanked Councilwoman Cheryl Hodges and members of the Westwood Parking Authority for getting the project off the ground. Council president is Beth Dell. “Weʼd hoped the three locations would be under construction by now. However, we were about a month off our estimate. Which for government work is right on schedule,” he said online. Arroyo said although there are “one-off” chargers elsewhere in ARROYO

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the area, “Westwood might be the first to fully commit to the rapidly emerging technology by simultaneously installing multiple stations on multiple municipal parking lots.” He said the borough “looked at the trends, the capital investments, the legacy auto companies (Volkswagen, Ford, MercedesBenz, Nissan) were making to retool assembly lines and increase EV production.” He said General Motors has announced it will phase out manufacturing gas powered vehicles by 2035 and that it has invested $35 billion in EV production. “New start-up manufacturers are in the mix, stirring competition and innovation. The EV market share is growing by leaps and bounds. And with the generous grant funding/incentives made HODGES

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Four dual Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations like this are in the works for the borough’s three public parking lots: north, south, and Fairview. Via Blink.

The future looks bright: Mayor Ray Arroyo posted this graph from International Energy Agency, which recommends policies “that enhance the reliability, affordability and sustainability of energy.” IEA says it examines “the full spectrum of issues including renewables, oil, gas and coal supply and demand, energy efficiency, clean energy technologies, electricity systems and markets, access to energy, and demandside management.”

likes, and loves. One called it a terrific initiative. Another said “Canʼt wait. I have [a Ford] F-150 Lightning [allelectric truck] on order.” One resident pointed out that Level 2 is not a quick charger; it gives about 30 miles of charge per hour. To that, Arroyo said “Understood. Our metered stalls offer twohour maximum stays. So you can “top off“ for a 60-mile run while dining or shopping or doing business downtown.” After that, the resident supposed, “So at the two-hour limit, you can move to another charger (if available), move to another non-charging spot, or leave.” Residents react Arroyo said, “Yes, that is corIn the post thread, dozens of residents sounded off with cheers, rect.” available, the governing body decided it was exactly the right time to make more than a token commitment to this transition.” Arroyo said, “We are delighted to be working with well-established charger provider Blink. The units are unobtrusive and versatile. And the terms of our agreement give the borough flexibility in controlling the hours of availability for the charging service.” He said, “Given the limited supply of parking in the public lots we want to avoid empty stalls while the local demand for EV charging is ramping up.”

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Find zen with Westwood Rec yoga, tai-chi

Westwood Recreation invites resident and non-resident 55+ adults to find their zen by joining ForeverYoung yoga, chair yoga and tai-chi classes. Certified yoga instructor Tori Karach leads ForeverYoung participants, beginners to advanced, in a

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held in the Westwood Community Center on Thursdays from noon to 12:40 p.m. ForeverYoung yoga classes are free to 55+ Westwood Residents; $20 per month non-residents. ForeverYoung participants looking for a new challenge are also encouraged to try Tai-Chi with instructor Hasmig Mekjian. Tai-chi is a Chinese martial art that incor-

porates slow continuous movement from one pose to the next. It is widely hailed as a beneficial way to reduce stress and anxiety and regular practice promotes better sleep and weight loss. Additionally, tai-chi might also improve cognition and balance and relieve symptoms of arthritis. ForeverYoung Tai-Chi classes take place on Tuesdays at 8 a.m. and

Thursdays at 1 p.m. The program is free for Westwood residents; the non-resident fee is $30 per month and includes entrance to both classes. To register for these classes, adults 55+ should go to the Westwood Community Center at 55 Jefferson Ave. any day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or call for (201) 6647882 for more information.

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knows, Apple Blossom Inn is located on Ridgewood Road, halfway between here and Westwood, which makes it just a nice little drive from home.” That cheerful announcement belied what was really going on behind the scenes. Almost immediately, things had started to go wrong for the Apple Blossom Inn. During their first season, Sieper left the partnership to open his own place. He also made headlines in Bergen and Passaic coun-

FROM PAGE 4

Letters: FROM PAGE 2

that it would be prudent to: • Delay a decision on a second community center and use the next 120 days to ensure we put the finishing touches on what Claremont March has already committed to; • Demonstrate patience and fiscal responsibility by determining what the cost of insulating our DPW from flooding would be (possibly millions of dollars) before we move ahead with two community centers; • Consider the benefits of

ties in August when he drove off the road and struck a parked car containing a family with small children, causing injuries. He was driving without a license and tried to flee the scene, but was arrested soon after. He and friends had been on their way to the Apple Blossom, which was mentioned several times in the news coverage. Then in late September detectives descended on the inn and seized a quantity of liquor. This was during Prohibition, that era between 1920 and 1933 when the manufacture and sale of alcoholic

instead using the $2 million to reduce the amount of debt we need to fund the $3 million to $3.5 million Centennial Field returfing project; and • Consider the need to keep property tax increases under control. All to no avail. Although every member of the present council ran as a “Republican for Responsible Government” I didnʼt see much evidence of responsible governing, except from Councilman Zoltán Horváth. What I saw was political pandering. The rush to judgement was palpable, the process non-transparent, and the decision wasteful. Mayor John J. Ruocco Hillsdale

beverages was illegal. Brennon had to pay a fine of $50, which is equivalent to about $800 in todayʼs money. In November both Brennon and Sieper were arrested for failing to make good on a bad check they had written back in June, while they were still partners. The check for $524 (about $8,000 in todayʼs money) had been jointly issued by the men to a contractor for work at the restaurant. Bail was set at $1,500. Sieper posted his bail, but Brennon, unable to raise the money, was put in Bergen County

A bright suggestion on potholes To the editor: road work W being done I wonder if it would be possible to put a coat of ITH ALL THE

red/yellow fluorescent paint down before the roads are tarred. This would make any future potholes much more visible. Just a thought. Tom Bettinger Park Ridge

Jail.

The ill-fated Apple Blossom Inn closed down after operating for less than a year. In 1929 a developer approached the Township Council with a proposal to turn the land stretching northwest from the corner of Pascack and Ridgewood roads into a cemetery, with the former Apple Blossom Inn converted into a chapel. The land included 95 undeveloped acres. For this, the developer would have paid the town a one-time sum of $20,000, which was intended to cover the loss of taxes the town would sustain into the future. The councilmen rejected the idea on the grounds that this prime real estate in the center of town was no place for a cemetery. Instead, Wendell Orth purchased the property and picked up

where Sieper and Brennon had left off. He turned the old Apple Blossom Inn into the Pine Lodge, which opened for the first time on July 20, 1929. In addition to a restaurant offering dinner and dancing, there was fishing, canoeing, tennis, swimming, and horseback riding on the grounds. Pine Lodge and its adjacent Pine Lake operated for the next 47 years, as a modern township grew up around it. Pine Lake closed in 1976 and the swimming area buildings burned in 1982. Still, the main house, which has passed through numerous owners, continues to be enjoyed as a restaurant. — Krisin Beuscher, a former editor of Pascack Press, is president of Pascack Historical Society in Park Ridge and edits its quarterly membersʼ newsletter, Relics.

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Fire department busy in May, including at salute to U.S. hero

Fire Chief James Voorhis reports that the Westwood Fire Department was called 18 times for emergency assistance during the month of May. Voorhis reports that one of the calls turned out to be a serious fire. A small commercial truck caught fire at a local repair shop parking lot. The fire department responded with two engine crews and quickly extinguished the fire without any injuries or complications. These 18 emergency calls, one fire department work/maintenance detail and six training events required approximately 370 hours of volunteer time. The Westwood Fire Department was called on one occasion to assist the Washington Township Fire Department and received assistance from the Emerson Fire department on one occasion under the mutual aid agreement. Automatic fire alarms were received three times in May. Although no fires existed at any of these incidents, a full fire department response is required. Firefighters check the entire building to determine if an actual fire exists. One of these automatic alarms was caused by a contractor in the building. No cause for the alarm activation was found at two of the calls. The fire department responded twice to investigate incidents concerning natural gas. At these calls fire

There to represent! The Westwood Volunteer Fire Deparment’s monthly report for May includes proud mention of its presence at the 103rd birthday celebration for Tuskegee Airman flight instructor Roscoe “Coach” Draper, inset. Photos by Richard Frant @FrantVisuals. crews respond and check the area or alarms. CO is an odorless and colorbuilding with meters. A malfunction- less gas given off by improperly ing kitchen stove was found at one burning heating or cooking equipincident, firefighters shut the gas to ment. It can be fatal at high levels. the stove and turned the situation Each of the CO calls requires a full over to the homeowner to have the fire department response. Fire crews stove repaired. At another call no gas check the entire building with meters readings were found. As is standard and determined that no carbon practice, the fire department turns monoxide was present at this call. this situation over to PSE&G gas The occupancy was turned over to PSE&G gas technicians for further crews. One fire department response investigation. At another incident a smoke was for carbon monoxide (CO)

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HELP WANTED FLOATER TO ADMINISTRATION, CLERK AND FINANCE – BOROUGH OF WESTWOOD P/T - 15-20 hrs. per week in the Administration, Clerk and Finance offices, performing various administrative, secretarial, and clerical tasks, including but not limited to preparation of correspondence, maintenance of records and files, issuing licenses, processing of department invoices, website maintenance, and special projects. Must be proficient in Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Must be organized, self-motivated, enjoy multi-tasking, and possess a strong work ethic. A minimum of 5 years’ experience in an office is required. Experience in state or local government is a plus. Salary DoQ. EOE. Please submit resume and cover letter by email to Jean-Marie Vadovic, Deputy Borough Clerk, jvadovic@westwoodnj.go v by July 29, 2022. The Borough reserves the right to interview candidates as applications are received.

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HELP WANTED DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS LABORER F/T POSITION– HILLSDALE BOROUGH. The Borough of Hillsdale Department of Public Works is seeking qualified applicants for a permanent full-time Laborer position. Duties will include but not be limited to buildings and ground maintenance, grass cutting, operating a variety of motor vehicles including automated and rear load trash trucks, dump trucks and other equipment used in public works services, assisting in the snow and ice removal operations, collection of leaves, repairing potholes, repairing water main breaks and service leaks etc. Applicant will be required to work scheduled and emergency overtime. Must possess a valid Class B (CDL) license or if hired be able to acquire license within one year. Driver history will be checked upon hire. Public works experience is preferred. Applicant must have the ability to interact in a positive and effective manner with employees and the general public. Applicant will be required to submit to employment drug/alcohol screening, both pre-hire and randomly upon hire. Employment applications are available at www.hillsdalenj.org or at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ. To apply, please complete a job application from our website and submit to the DPW Superintendent at HYPERLINK "mailto:dhayes@hillsdalenj.org" dhayes@hillsdalenj.org or you may drop off your application at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ 07642 by July 29, 2022. The Borough reserves the right to interview candidates prior to the expiration of the job posting. EOE.

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condition was caused by an overheated motor on a patientʼs bed a local nursing home. The power was shut to the bed. No extension occurred and no injuries resulted. On two other incidents fire crews assisted an emergency medical crew and one citizen was trapped in a malfunctioning elevator. At this call fire rescue personnel used tools normally used by elevator mechanics,

but carried on the WFD rescue truck, to open the elevator door and safely remove the citizen without further problems. On two occasions motor vehicles struck local buildings. Fire crews responded and assessed the minor damage and turned the buildings over to owners for repairs. In addition to emergency services work the Westwood Fire Department takes pride in its participation in community events and May was a busy month. Members of the Westwood Fire Department held its annual fire department memorial service, marched in the Memorial Day parade, and attended the Westwood Veterans Council memorial service. The WFD also participated in a 103rd birthday celebration for Westwood resident Pvt. Roscoe DuBois “Coach” Draper, a World War II veteran who served with the famed Tuskegee Airmen; made a fire service visit to a local grammar school; and conducted a firehouse tour for local preschool children. (See “Happy 103rd to Roscoe ʻCoachʼ Draper,” Pascack Press, May 21, 2022.) Direct your fire department related questions to wwfdchief@westwoodnj.gov or (201) 664-0526. You can reach the Fire Prevention Bureau at wfpb191@usa.net and (201) 6647100 ext. 308.

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HELP WANTED PLANNING BOARD SECRETARY POSITION P/T– HILLSDALE BOROUGH. The Borough of Hillsdale is seeking a qualified applicant for a parttime Planning Board Secretary. The qualified candidate will work approximately 15-20 hrs/wk. Responsibilities include providing administrative support to planning operations, answering phones, responding to inquiries; reviewing, processing, and tracking applications; preparing meeting agendas and minutes; fulfilling Open Public Record requests and other duties as may be assigned. Experience working in a municipal government environment a plus but not required. Seeking proactive, highly motivated individual w/ excellent multi-tasking, computer, interpersonal & time management skills. Employment applications are available at www.hillsdalenj.org or at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ. To apply, please complete a job application from our website and submit with a cover letter and salary requirements to the Borough Clerk at HYPERLINK "mailto:dkohan@hillsdalenj.org" dkohan@hillsdalenj.org or you may drop off your application at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ 07642 by July 29, 2022. The Borough reserves the right to interview candidates prior to the expiration of the job posting. EOE.

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Gottheimer announces federal action on car thefts, carjackings

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

30 PASCACK VALLEY

Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) on July 12 announced federal action to combat the spike in car thefts and violent carjacking in North Jersey, the tristate area, and nationwide. Nationally, auto thefts increased 16.5% in 2021. In New Jersey, there were more than 14,000 vehicles reported stolen in 2021 — a 22% increase from 2020. As of this May there was a 37% increase in auto thefts in New Jersey year to date. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported that, as of 2020, thousands of vehicles were stolen or carjacked across the tristate area to be illegally exported to Africa from the U.S. through terminals located in and around the Port of New York and New Jersey. Federal action Gottheimer is pushing for includes: • A National Auto Theft Task Force — led by the Administration to coordinate federal, state, and local law enforcement efforts focused on combating interstate and international carjacking and auto theft. • Immediately increasing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) security at ports — utilizing Customs and Border Protec-

<Calls to ‘cut off the head of the snake. And the head of the snake is at the ports…’ <National Auto Theft Task Force to coordinate federal, state, local law enforcement efforts

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5) is joined in Allendale on July 12 by (left to right) Westwood Police Chief Michael Pontillo, Upper Saddle River Police Chief Patrick Rotella, Bergen County Commissioner Germaine Ortiz, and local car theft victim Matthew Mazon (at microphones). (Photo via Gottheimer’s office) tion (CBP) and other DHS agencies to strengthen law enforcement presence and improve

inspections at ports to intercept more stolen cars before they are loaded into containers and shipped

overseas. • Tracking proceeds of stolen vehicles to take down interstate & international criminal rings — led by the Treasury and Justice Departments, along with the FBI, to track the proceeds of stolen vehicles when they land overseas, to examine if funds are financing drug trafficking, gangs, or terrorism, and to target heads of the car theft rings. • Increasing prosecution by the United States Attorneyʼs Office of car theft and carjacking crimes — to further crack down on interstate and international car theft rings. • Congressional hearing from the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security — to examine the role of DHS in responding to and investigating car theft at ports. • Congressional hearing from the House Financial Services Subcommittee on National Security, International Development and Monetary Policy — to examine the possible national security impacts of interstate and international car theft rings, and their use of the proceeds from car thefts. “Every other week, we read

OBITUARIES

Rue ABDELHAK

Rue Abdelhak (née Peek), 91, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 7, 2022 surrounded by her loving family. Rue was 91 years old and was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd Peek and Opal Branom Peek from Commerce, Texas. She is survived by her beloved husband, Edmund Abdelhak, and her cherished sister, Anna Beth Kennedy. She was a devoted mother to Nancy (William) Haines, Catherine (David) Muniz, Carol (David) Hart and Judy (Alan) Wagner.

She was Mimi to 14 grandchildren: Christopher, Carolyn (Chris), Leah (Tim), Lauren (Paul), Kaiya (Dan), Jeremy, Miranda, Taylor, Peter, Eliza, Jason, Amanda, Brett, Erin, and two great grandchildren, Bryce and Nolan. Rue was born and raised in Texas where she went to school and earned a degree in music education. In 1955, she moved to Park Ridge when she married Ed, her husband of nearly 67 years. Rue was a gentle, brave, strong and loving spirit who adored her family and cared deeply about social justice for all. Rue was an eternal optimist who saw the potential in everyone. She loved all the arts, especially music and theater. She played the piano and was active in commu-

Protect your family and gain peace of mind by pre-planning your cemetery arrangements. Select from Traditional Burial, Above Ground Mausoleum or Cremation Niches. Contact Nancy Fabricant NJ Licensed Cemetery Counselor at 201-214-1528 or nftnj36@gmail.com to discuss your personal needs.

nity theater for many years. Rue also had a passion for British mystery books and programs. She was an active member of the United Methodist Church. Rue was always curious about people and places and was an avid world traveler. She loved to host family gatherings at their home in Park Ridge. Rueʼs greatest joy was spending time with her family; she was happiest when everyone was together. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 6 at Park Ridge United Methodist Church. A lunch reception will follow. Rue loved bright colors: attendees are invited to wear cheerful colors to celebrate her life. Donations may be made in her honor to Heifer International or Church World Service. Arrangements by Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., rsfhi.com

Margaret M. GIUMETTI

Margaret M. Giumetti (née Parrillo), 79, of River Vale passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 4, 2022. Beloved wife of Alex for 59 wonderful years. Dear sister of Marion Frederick and the late Amelia Browning. Loving aunt of Joanne, Charlene, Ida, Annette,

Marie Dore, Jeanine, Toniann, Amy, and Karen and their families. Before retiring, Margaret was an administrative assistant for Standard Brands Co., New York City for nine years. She cared for those she loved in sickness and in health. She never forgot a birthday or holiday, always sending well wishes. She was a true lover of life. Margaret was a devout parishioner of St. Catharine of Alexandria Parish. Visitation is 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, July 15 at the Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge. Funeral Mass is 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 16 at St. Catharine of Alexandra Parish, 523 Western Highway, Blauvelt, N.Y. with interment to follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, the Bronx, N.Y. Arrangements by Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., Park Ridge, rsfhi.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Cancer Society, cancer.org, or Alzheimerʼs Foundation of America, alz.org.

Jordan FRAGIACOMO

Jordan Fragiacomo of Park Ridge passed away on July 12, 2022. Born in Manhattan, N.Y. in 1936 to Giordano and Amelia Fragiacomo. He leaves behind his wife of 65 years, Eleanor Fragiacomo, his brother Richard Fragiacomo (Genevieve) and sister Patricia, his sons, Jordan Fragiacomo (Theresa)

about yet another carjacking or stolen car literally taken out of someoneʼs driveway as they slept or, brazenly, in broad daylight. Then, these cars are chopped up for parts or they pull into the Port of Newark where they are put into a container, then on a ship, and sent overseas,” Gottheimer said in a statement provided to Pascack Press on July 12. He said, “Our local police chiefs have asked that we do everything we can at the federal level, as they put it, to cut off the head of the snake — and the head of the snake is at the ports. … We canʼt just let criminals steal cars and drive them right out of the country. We need to crack down and cut the engine on carjacking and car theft.” Joining him outside Allendale police HQ were Allendale chief Mike Dillon, Upper Saddle River Police Chief Patrick Rotella, Westwood Police Chief Michael Pontillo, Ho-Ho-Kus Police Chief Mike LaCroix, local Bergen County car theft victim Matthew Mazon, Bergen County Commissioner Germaine Ortiz, Allendale Council President Amy Wilczynski, and local law enforcement.

and Michael Fragiacomo (Jeanette), his grandchildren Christina Rynearson (Anthony, Alyssa, Jordan and Susan, great-grandfather of Antonio. After moving to Park Ridge in 1995 he joined the Park Ridge Golden Age Social Club. He was a big baseball fan and never missed a Yankee game on television. He loved his radio programs and has a recording of almost every one. He was his familyʼs world and undoubtedly the best grandfather and great-grandfather. He was so loved and will be immensely missed. Visitation 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 17 at the Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 KinderkaRidge. mack Road, Park rsfhi.com. Funeral Mass 11 a.m. on Monday, July 18 at Our Lady of Mercy R. C. Church, Park Ridge. Private cremation. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jordan may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, giving.mskcc.org.

Pascack Press

Send yours to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net

welcomes family news.

obstruction and discrimination on the boroughʼs part while the borough charges the redeveloper with false allegations, delay, and failing to fulfill its contract to build the massive downtown project in a timely manner. McCann said both sides are conducting discovery and continue to interview witnesses to further bolster their cases. He said maybe by the end of summer or early fall both sides will finish taking depositions and move to trial or continue possible further negotiations. Last summer, McCann had said he anticipated a revised redeveloperʼs agreement to soon be finalized between the borough and redeveloper. However, that did not occur, he said recently. Also, last summer the Superior Court appointed a Mount Laurel implementation monitor to help expedite the 29 units of affordable housing approved as part of the mixed-use complex: including 22 on-site units and seven offsite units. McMann told Pascack Press on July 11 that there is no construction schedule yet set nor an updated agreement signed between the borough and Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal. He previously said that there was no timeline or construction schedule included in the original agreement signed late in December 2018 by the prior administration, helmed by Mayor Louis Lamatina. Instead, he observed that construction continues on the parking garage and foundation elements of the 147-unit luxury apartment and retail complex abutting the downtown train stop. About a month ago, Mayor Danielle DiPaola — who voted against the scale of the project while on council and ran for mayor against “overdevelopment,” only to inherit the agreement — observed that work was occurring

sides are working but that nothing can yet be reported publicly.

FROM PAGE 1

Construction on Emerson Station’s parking garage (in background) and foundations steams ahead July 12, 2022. The site, on Kinderkamack between Linwood and Lincoln, with implications for the borough’s volunteer ambulance headquarters and related affordable housing, and zoning questions, are at the heart of dueling lawsuits. John Snyder photo. regularly and that then the second floor was going onto a slowly rising parking deck. In March, McCann had reported that the borough had asked nine questions of the redeveloper following a presentation they made requesting that 129 Kinderkamack Road be rezoned for seven offsite units of affordable housing. No answers have been provided to those questions, McCann said, which were necessary and needed to help the borough understand issues surrounding 129 Kinderkamack Roadʼs purchase for future affordable housing. He said itʼs likely the nine questions may be asked to certain individuals that the borough interviews for its legal case against the redeveloper. “We really need to know that information (about 129 Kinderkamackʼs purchase). This demonstrates to the court that theyʼre not cooperating. Instead

WESTWOOD

TWO LAND CHARITY GOLF OUTING SCHOLARSHIPS

The Westwood Charity Golf Outing will hold its 26th annual Outing on Thursday, Sept. 15, the second Thursday after Labor Day, at Valley Brook Golf Course. The WCGO Committee reports this yearʼs Outing will not conflict with the first day of school, enabling more golfers to attend the event looked upon as an anticipated fall tradition. Over the past 25 years, the WCGO has raised and distributed more than $125,000 for our local charities. Since 2006, it has been presenting college scholarships to deserving Westwood resident high school seniors who are Westwoodʼs future leaders. The results of last yearʼs Out-

ing permitted organizers to give out two $1,500 scholarships to a senior from the class of 2022. This yearʼs winners are Madeline Risbud of the Academy of the Holy Angels and Catherine Grob of Westwood Regional High School. The Committee plans to distribute its annual letter to former participants and local merchants in early July, however, if you would like an application or information about the WCGO, please write westwoodcgo@gmail.com. The WCGO organizers want to maintain the Outingʼs positive momentum, thank everyone for their continued support, and look forward to a successful 2022 Outing.

theyʼre operating out of some developerʼs playbook,” he charged. He said as both sides depose individuals they suspect of having information relevant to their case, the trial stage moves closer and closer. “For now everythingʼs status quo,” said McCann, noting there was little updated information to report on. He said being in the discovery phase means both sides are working hard to put their cases together before going to trial. He said as depositions continue, the two sides may find it beneficial to meet together, possibly in a case management conference, to assess before Superior Court Judge Gregg Padovano where the other stands, and their status in moving

towards a trial. The borough is suing the redeveloper over $500,000 the borough believes it is owed in construction services to build a new ambulance corps. The borough deeded the ambulance corps property at that value to the redeveloper as part of the original project agreement. The redeveloper alleged the borough did not provide final construction designs by Dec. 31, 2019, a deadline initially agreed to, thus nullifying its obligation to reimburse the borough for the property. The borough has challenged the negotiated deadline, claiming the redeveloper knew it could not be met. “The wheels of justice turn slowly,” said McCann, noting both

Borough waiting on answers In March, McCann told Pascack Press the redeveloper “asked the council for a favor to change the zoning.” Citing two of the nine questions submitted by council that the redeveloper has not yet answered, he said, “But did you know what it was zoned for when you bought it? Whatʼs the basis for your request?” McCann also had asked the redeveloper when it closed on 129 Kinderkamack Road; where else in town the seven off-site affordable units could be located; the date the redeveloper knew that Emerson knew it intended to use 129 Kinderkamack for affordables; whether the redeveloper knew that 129 Kinderkamack was not zoned for multifamily housing; how many alternative sites were considered; and when the redeveloper decided not to partner with Habitat for Humanity in constructing the off-site units. “Weʼre disappointed that they havenʼt got back to us on those questions. We just wanted to report those to the residents,” McCann told Pascack Press. In October 2021, we reported that site work had been suspended after toxic soil contamination from perchlorethylene, a common dry cleaning agent, had been discovered at the site of former Ranch Cleaners at 190 Kinderkamack Road. Calls and emails to attorney Joseph B. Fiorenzo, of Sills Cummis & Gross, P.C., representing the redeveloper, were not returned by press time. What do you think? Send a letter to the editor!

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Lawsuits: Dueling claims around Emerson Station

JULY 18, 2022 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Pascack Press 7.18.22

Articles inside

OBITUARIES