Northern Valley Press - New Jersey (south edition) - Feb. 24, 2020 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

100 YEARS YOUNG

Turning 100 is certainly cause for celebration, and Estelle Greeneʼs milestone was celebrated in grand style on Feb.11 in Englewood Cliffs.

ALPINE • CRESSKILL • ENGLEWOOD • ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS • TEANECK • TENAFLY ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS

SEE PAGE 2

FEBRUARY 24, 2020

DOCUMENTING LOCAL HISTORY

NORTHERN VALLEY

JUDGE OKs 600AUTH CALLS FOR OPT-OUT UNIT HOUSING DEVELOPMENT Noted filmmaker examined cityʼs Fourth Ward OF INCLUSIVE LESSONS BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

A Superior Court judge approved a developerʼs plans to build 600 residential units—including 120 affordable units—on a 20acre former Unilever campus at 800 Sylvan Ave. following a recent decision to permit 347 affordable units in Englewood Cliffs. Following the original decision to mandate 347 units of affordable housing in mid-January, Superior Court Judge Christine A. Farrington ruled on Normandy Real Estate Partnersʼ “builderʼs remedy” lawsuit against the borough. The judge had stripped the borough of immunity to such suits following her January decision to require 347 units of affordable housing. The development was strongly opposed by borough officials, especially Mayor Mario Kranjac, who made opposition to such high-density development a key theme of his mayoral campaign. Kranjac told Northern Valley Press that the borough would appeal Farringtonʼs mid-January ruling granting 347 units of affordable housing, as well as the recent order. “With Ed Aversa being the only council member to abstain from voting to appeal, we will appeal all her decisions as soon as permitted to do so, and shed light on why hardworking New Jersey taxpayers are being taken advantage of by a system rigged against them in favor of politicians and developers who fund their political campaigns,” emailed Kranjac Feb. 18 to Northern Valley Press. Farringtonʼs order approving the 600-unit development was not unexpected following her January

See CLIFFS on page 124

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

Filmmaker and documentarian Sam Lee (seated, center) received a warm reception from the Rotary Club of Englewood on Feb. 4. BY HILLARY VIDERS SPECIAL TO NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

Englewood resident Sam Leeʼs documentaries are historical treasures. On Feb. 4, Lee reinforced that reputation at a Rotary Club of Englewood meeting. The group of 40 Rotarians who met at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on North Van Brunt Street

PHOTO BY HILLARY VIDERS

GETTING THE LEAD OUT A plan to subsidize lead water pipe removal on private property by charging all utility rate payers a fee is contested. See page 3

watched a segment of Leeʼs fascinating film, “Remembering the 4th Ward of Englewood,” which he produced in conjunction with his nonprofit organization, Encounters in Black Tradition. The theme was especially relevant because February is Black History Month. The presentation began as Lee talked about

Continued on page 9

Before school districts statewide are scheduled to introduce new LGBTQ-inclusive lessons this September, a state Assemblyman introduced a bill Feb. 13 that would allow parents to “opt-out” children from such lessons and receive a voucher to place their child in a private school more in line with their beliefs or religion. The state law to include LGBTQ-inclusive lessons in middle school and high school curricula was signed by Gov. Phil Murphy in January 2019, and mandates all school districts implement such lesson plans in September 2020. Before Murphy signed the LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum law, it was approved by a 52-vote majority in the Assembly and a 27-vote majority in the Senate, drawing wide bipartisan support from state legislators. State Assemblyman Robert Auth (R-Old Tappan) introduced the bill, A-3000, that provides parents “choice” in removing their son or daughter from LGBTQ lessons that they do not want their child exposed to.

See AUTH on page 234

B ck in time...

The old general store and post office was a community gathering place in early Alpine.

See page 4

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

100-year-old volunteer inspires peers, earns admiration BY HILLARY VIDERS SPECIAL TO NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS

Turning 100 is certainly cause for celebration, and Estelle Greeneʼs milestone was celebrated in grand style on Feb. 11 by the National Council of Jewish Women Bergen County Section (NCJWBCS) at Lefkes in Englewood Cliffs. Greene, a Fort Lee resident, has been a major volunteer for NCJWBCS for 60 years and she still sparkles with charisma and style. She has lived through many historic events, including World War II, during which time she volunteered for the Red Cross Blood Bank and acted as a USO hostess at events for soldiers who were home on leave. Since the 1960s, Greene has served in many positions in the NCJWBCS, particularly as director of the organizationʼs Thrift Shop in Bergenfield. Through her leadership, the shop has grown into one of NCJWʼs most successful fundraising tools. To reward her outstanding service, the NCJWBCS feted Greene with a fabulous surprise 100th birthday party on Feb. 11. As Greene walked into Lefkes restaurant with friends Addie Rudin and Peggy Fine, she was met with a jovial chorus of “Happy Birthday.” The spritely senior was sur-

Estelle Greene displays her New Jersey State Assembly Resolution with Carole Benson and Peggy Kabakow.

Estelle Greene holds the ‘Volunteer of the Century’ plaque given to her Feb. 11 by the National Council of Jewish Women Bergen County Section.

prised and elated at the lavish luncheon celebration attended by 55 members. After Karen Kurland welcomed everyone, Carole Benson, NCJWBCSʼs communication director, presented Greene with a

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New Jersey State Assembly Resolution—signed by state Sen. Loretta Weinberg, state Assemblyman Gordon Johnson and state Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle—and a plaque that read “Volunteer of the Century,” which elicited rousing applause.

Greene will also be featured in a page of the journal for the NCJWBCSʼs annual installation. During the festivities, Greene was given a gift certificate to her favorite hair salon and two large greeting cards with a collage of photos and greetings signed by NCJWBCS members. Sentiments included, “Estelle, you are an inspiration. Gorgeous, smart and witty!” “Beautiful lady, you are our role model,” “My hero!” “The Energizer Bunny,” and “A woman who goes straight ahead and does everything for everyone!” NCJWBCS Co-President Ruth Seitelman joked, “I want to be like her when I grow up!” When Greene was asked

about the secret of her longevity, she replied, “My attitude keeps me young. While Iʼm on this earth, I want to do as much good as I can. Thatʼs who I am.” She winked and added, “Oh, and I drink a little vodka every afternoon!” The National Council of Jewish Women is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. PHOTOS BY HILLARY VIDERS

TEANECK

Scholarships offered to young Jewish women National Council of Jewish Women Bergen County Section (NCJW BCS) will be awarding

several endowed scholarships to young Jewish women who are graduating from Bergen

NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Organizer thought article was well done

To the editor: Thank you for the beautifully written front page story about Standing Up To Anti-Semitism and Hate, a program that took place at Congregation Ahavath Torah in Englewood, NJ on February 9. [“Standing up against hate,” Northern Valley Press, Feb. 17.]

Hillary Viders, the author, summarized the program perfectly so that anyone who wasnʼt there can understand the highlights and importance of the discussion. She so acutely captured even the nuances of the panel discussion and identified the most important messages of each panelist. We will surely send the link to the article to our synagogue membership since it captures the program so well. Kudos to Hillary Viders and your fine newspaper. Irene Gottesman Israel Engagement Committee, Congregation Ahavath Torah Englewood

County public high schools and are planning to attend a four-year college or university in September. Among the criteria which may be considered are academic achievement, significant involvement in school and/or community activities and financial need. This is a longstanding NCJW BCS program which recognizes outstanding graduates and helps with the increasing cost of higher education. Information and applications are available through your high school guidance office as well as its website at www.ncjwbcs.org. Applications must be received by April 15, which will allow time for considering submissions and scheduling interviews for semi-finalists. For further information, contact office@ncjwbcs.org. NCJW BCS is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.

Suez proposal ‘just wrong,’ says ratepayer advocate A SUEZ crew works to replace lead service lines in Tenafly on May 17, 2019.

NORTHERN VALLEY

A state ratepayers advocate filed a motion in mid-February that charges Suez North Americaʼs proposed customer lead line replacement program “is contrary to both federal and state law that has existed for more than a century” and that public utilities are only allowed to charge ratepayers for investment in utility property “that is used and useful in the public service.” The Suez customer lead replacement proposal offers to replace lines for $1,000—payable in a lump sum or over a year-long installment plan—with Suezʼs 200,000 ratepayers picking up the cost difference via a long-term surcharge on bills. Suez estimates most replacements cost $3,000 to $5,000, with some up to $8,000. Should be rejected In its brief, the state Division of Rate Counsel, which represents ratepayers statewide, said that Suezʼs two-year pilot customer lead line replacement proposal should be rejected because it seeks to charge nearly 200,000 ratepayers for improvements to property not owned by the utility—and make a nearly 10% profit on work not permitted under existing utility law. Suez proposed a customer lead line replacement effort last March after revealing that 15 of 108 homes tested above federal lead levels for drinking water in late 2018. Following the disclosure and pushback from public officials, Suez initiated an expedited lead line replacement effort for utility-owned lead service lines, vowing to replace 25 percent of its lead lines last year, costing over $20 million. Last year, Suez said it replaced 2,517 lead lines and lead connections, with plans to replace 2,000 more in 2020. Oral arguments Feb. 25 On Feb. 25, attorneys for Suez and state Division of Rate Counsel will offer oral arguments and answer questions before Office of Administrative Law Judge Jacob Gertsman in a hearing in Quakerbridge.

Following the hearing, Gertsman will have 45 days to issue a decision. The decision then goes to the state Board of Public Utilities, who can accept, reject or modify the decision, attorneys said. “Suez cannot recover costs associated with replacing such customer-owned lines from ratepayers. Whether that recovery is in ʻrate baseʼ or cloaked as the ʻregulatory assetʼ Suez proposes. Contrary to Suezʼs assertion, there is no ʻconfusionʼ as to the details of Suezʼs proposal or the relief Suez seeks,” said the Rate Counsel motion opposing the Suez pilot program In its response, Rate Counsel cites four major problems with Suezʼs customer replacement effort, and repeatedly calls for Gertsman to deny Suezʼs petition to charge ratepayers for the program. Suez proposes that costs to replace customer lead lines—estimated at $3,000 to $8,000 per replacement—plus administrative costs and carrying costs on any unamortized balance, should be amortized and recovered from ratepayers over a period of seven years. Basically, Suez proposes an 85cent surcharge on its 200,000 customersʼ monthly bills to recover its costs over a seven-year period, said its attorney. Others waiting if approved Stefanie Brand, Rate Counsel

director, said that if Suez was allowed to charge all ratepayers for work on property not owned by it, nor part of its system, that would set a precedent and allow other similar investor-owned utilities to do the same, and lead to increased charges to ratepayers. “Itʼs against the law and itʼs just wrong,” said Brand of Suezʼs proposal. She said Rate Counsel had offered alternatives to Suez that did not involve it charging ratepayers, or making a profit on such work, but it never responded nor did it offer any alternatives to charging ratepayers for the cost difference in replacing customer lead lines. Brand said they asked Suez to offer its alternatives to the proposal to charge all ratepayers for customer lead line replacements and are still waiting for a response. Brand said if Suezʼs proposed surcharge is approved, “donʼt think itʼs going to end here” as other investor-owned utilities are hoping to adopt similar cost recovery plans, plus a return on what they expend on improving non-public property. Reacting to Rate Counselʼs response, Suez attorney Stephen Genzer said it appeared the ratepayers advocate was not looking at the big picture. ʻReally not complicatedʼ “Rate Counsel leaves it wholly to individual homeowners. They have no proposal; they just say it is

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Genzer via email. Suez has not provided details about estimated total costs or a timetable for customer replacements. After the Jan. 21 public hearing, Suez spokeswoman Debra Vial said the utility estimates 5,491 known utility lead service lines, 17,248 suspected lead goosenecks, (or connectors between mains and customer lines), and 1,469 unknown service lines. As for customer lines, Suez reported 134,000 with no lead, 4,577 service lines have lead, and 2,087 of those 4,577 lines have lead only on the customer side. Vial said 68,000 customer lines are currently unknown.

not the customersʼ (as a whole) responsibility, and replacing those lines would only benefit those individual customers whose lines are being replaced. If we as a society want lead service lines removed, we have to get rid of them. Itʼs really not complicated,” Genzer emailed Northern Valley Press. “If lead lines remain in place, any water system has to constantly adjust its chemical treatment, test more and more homes for lead, and change operations, all of which cost all customers money to keep up,” he said. “Eliminate the lead and those costs are reduced or eliminated. All customers benefit. And we have not even mentioned the public health benefits by doing it sooner rather than later,” added

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ALPINE

Alpine was not yet a borough, but still just a small hamlet within Harrington Township when the communityʼs first post office got its start in 1870. Up until then, folks had to travel to either Cresskill or Closter to mail a letter—which doesnʼt sound too inconvenient until you remember that automobiles hadnʼt been invented yet, and the trip was made by horse and wagon. The structure shown above, still standing on Closter Dock Road nearly opposite Alpine Community Church, served as the post office for 40 years. It was also

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Joseph DuBoisʼ general store, and DuBois himself was postmaster. In his 1976 book “Crossroads of History: The Story of Alpine,” author Stanley W. Bradley explains, “[DuBois] ran a ʻcracker barrelʼ sort of establishment, where people would gather to pass the time and discuss world affairs while waiting for the daily mail to arrive by buggy from the railroad station at Closter.” As a focal point of the community, this was also where the first telephone was installed in Alpine. People waited in line to use it in an era before anybody had a phone at home. —Kristin Beuscher

SERVING: Alpine, Cresskill, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs & Tenafly. S

Publisher ________________________ John J. DeFina Editor _____________________________Tom Clancey Art Director_____________________ Keith J. Harcher Director of Advertising __________ George F. Harcher

The articles and opinions printed in Northern Valley Press are not necessarily those of the publisher. Northern Valley Press is neither liable nor responsible for typographical errors. This publication contains material developed independently by Northern Valley Press. It may not be reproduced, in whole or in part.

EXTRAORDINARY ENGLEWOOD: Chef Aaron Morrisey ENGLEWOOD

Aaron Morrisey, an Englewood resident and counselor at the Teen Center, is a prominent chef and tenure track adjunct professor at Bergen Community Collegeʼs Hospitality and Restaurant Management department. He was also a featured contestant on the Food Network show “Chopped.” He graduated from Dwight Morrow High School the Academies@Englewood class of 2009, specializing in information systems. In his senior year of high school, Morrisey obtained a year-long internship at the Clinton Inn Palmerʼs Crossing Restaurant in Tenafly. He attended Johnson and Wales University, where he graduated with honors (magna cum laude) and a bachelorʼs degree in hospitality and hotel management in 2013. After graduating JWU, he pursued his craft at multiple establishments, including Marriot, Starwood Capital hospitality group, and Gillette Stadium, where he cooked for the New England Patriots. Morrisey is also a member of the BCA—Black Culinary Alliance—and served as president of the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity from 2011 to 2013. Morrisey currently does private catering and is involved in many community outreach programs. He has won an award for teaching teens cooking skills at the Bergen Family Center. • • • Hillary Viders: When did you realize that you wanted to be a professional chef? Aaron Morrisey: Culinary arts has been a focal point in my life, ever since a young age. Family gatherings, holidays, celebrations, and all-around positive memories had one thing in common: great food. Cooking with my mother for her nonprofit Yada Cafe helped me see a future and develop skills for this field. HV: When you were only 17 years old, interning at a major Palmerʼs restaurant like Crossing must have been very intimidating. AM: It was challenging, but I loved it! I helped me gain a real passion for cooking. From not knowing what blanching meant to filleting steaks and gutting fish, I elevated my skill set and found a career that would challenge me. HV: What are some of your favorite dishes that you cook? AM: I love soul food from the south because it is a tradition in my family. My grandmother grew up in Charlotte, N.C., and when I went to visit, she taught me how to fry fish and make biscuits and pies. We had a lot of

barbecues with marinades, and it was delicious. HV: How were you chosen to be a contestant on “Chopped?” AM: In 2018, I was working at Pier 115 Bar and Grill in Edgewater when a recruiter for the show called and said that they had heard about the good food that I was making. They asked who the chef was that day, but he was not in and I was the sous chef, so the restaurant gave them gave my name and I was chosen to be on the show. HV: What is the format of “Chopped?” AM: There are four contestants and each one is given a “mystery basket” with ingredients from which you have to create CHEF AARON MORRISEY an appetizer, an entree and a dessert for the judges, all of haven for the kids, and I and the whom were famous chefs. I other staff members teach many made sliders made from Wagyu different things. We assist with beef, and cheese corn dogs with homework, work with skills building, teach hygiene, have creative sauce. HV: How competitive was it arts projects, etc. We have a teacher who comes in from the on the show? competitive middle school to teach math. AM: Itʼs because every course you make Many of our instructors are bi-linhas a time limit and you see it gual work with the non-English being counted down on a screen. speaking kids and I speak “kitchen We had 10 minutes in the appe- Spanish.” The ZONE also has a Sumtizer round, 20 minutes in the entree round and 30 minutes for mer Teen Drop-in Program where I also teach from each afternoon. the dessert round. HV: What are some of the We have outdoor activities includthings that you teach teens at the ing swimming and physical fitBergen Family Centery after ness, but we really focus on creschool ZONE program under the ativity and social aspects of kidsʼ lives. We do summer cooking, direction of Liz Corsini? AM: The after school coding, painting and artistry and ZONE program is 3 to 8 p.m., we try to work on mental health five days a week. Itʼs not just issues. HV: How many children are cooking. I think of this as a safe

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in the ZONE after school and summer drop-in programs? HV: This year we had 55 in each program. HV: Why is this BFC program important for the community? AM: Because the hours between 3 and 8 p.m. are a dark period for many kids. Itʼs a time when they donʼt have a lot of supervision and they can get into bad habits. This is a safe haven where you can grow and develop good habits, as well as do meal prep for the week. HV: How rewarding is it to teach these youngsters as well as the students at Bergen Community College? AM: It is extremely rewarding! As a professor and an instructor, I am the future of these youngsters and it is exciting to see how I can be a positive influence in years to come. HV: What plans do you have for the future?

AM: At some point, I may open a business, like a restaurant franchise, and I will use some of the profits to support a nonprofit organization like the ZONE. But, right now, I want to keep working with kids. Nowadays, everyone wants to work to make money, and they invest in buildings, stocks and bonds, etc. I invest in our children—so 20 and 30 years from now, I want to be able to walk into a school, a church or a restaurant and see the fruits of my labor: a successful professional. It will be wonderful to think that I had a hand in making that person grow. PHOTO BY HILLARY VIDERS

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FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

BY HILLARY VIDERS SPECIAL TO NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

POLICE BLOTTER

Police Reports

This section is based on data provided to the Northern Valley Press by neighborhood police departments. Due to pending court appearances and other variations, the following information shall be read in â&#x20AC;&#x153;press timeâ&#x20AC;? context.

p UNITED STATES

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Teaneck man embezzled funds, sentenced to 30 months

A Bergen County man who embezzled funds from his companyĘźs employee benefit plan over an eight-year period was sentenced Feb. 18 to 30 months in prison, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced. Howard Preschel, 63, of Teaneck, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Susan D. Wigenton in Newark federal court to one count of an indictment charging him with embezzling funds from the CMG Vending Inc. Pension Trust Fund. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Preschel served as the sole trustee for the CMG Vending Inc. Pension Trust Fund. CMG Vending operated, leased, and rented vending machines throughout New Jersey and New York. As the trustee, Preschel, by law, was

a fiduciary and therefore required to act solely in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries. Between November 2010 and April 2018, Preschel embezzled $368,782.66 from the pension trust fund by engaging in 52 separate illegal withdrawals or transfers from various pension trust accounts. As a result of these illegal withdrawals and transfers, the trust fund accounts lost an additional $93,266.98 in interest. In addition to the prison term, Judge Wigenton sentenced Preschel to three years of supervised release. She also ordered Preschel to make restitution to the CMG Vending Inc. Pension Trust Fund in the amount of $462,049.64. Preschel also agreed to a debarment which prohibits him from acting as a fiduciary on behalf of any employee benefit plan for a period of 13 years. U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Mikulka in Mountainside, and the United States Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, under the direction of Acting Regional Director of the New York Regional Office, Thomas Licetti, with the investigation leading to Feb. 18Ęźs sentencing. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas S. Kearney of the U.S. AttorneyĘźs Office Criminal Division in Newark.

Human remains found at Teaneck residence Investigators have unearthed human remains at a Van Arsdale Place residence in Teaneck. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At this time, no foul play is suspected and the current homeowners are not implicated in any way as to how the bones came to be on their property,â&#x20AC;? Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said, in a statement. Teaneck police were called Feb. 19 when people excavating the property for an exterior renovation project found what they

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McCloud School Dancers, the DMHS Drumline, the cast of DMAE upcoming musical â&#x20AC;&#x153;Into The Woods,â&#x20AC;? and Roberta Mathes with the BeyondDance Performing Arts School. Surprise performances by Englewood teachers will also bring the audience to its feet. Judy Aronson, the teacher advising the student producers, directors, and organizers of â&#x20AC;&#x153;EnglewoodĘźs Got Talent,â&#x20AC;? explains that the show is not a competition. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a celebration of the many talents that can be found throughout the city of Englewood. We have such a rich history of entertainers in this town, and its wonderful to be able to showcase the current talent on the stage of BergenPAC,â&#x20AC;? said Aronson. Businesses that have sponsored Englewood Idol in the past have been eager to show their enthusiasm for the Dr. John Grieco Scholarship Fund and for the students organizing EnglewoodĘźs Got Talent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Institutions like Englewood Health, Benzel Busch, Visions Federal Credit Union, they have all been so enthusiastic about supporting the show because they see that it reaches beyond the high school, giving younger and older citizens of Englewood a chance to share their talents with their town,â&#x20AC;? said Aronson. Companies interested in partnering with this show can

visit EnglewoodsGotTalent.com for further details or email jaronson@epsd.org. All profits from this event will benefit the Dr. John Grieco Scholarship Fund, a 501c3 notfor-profit organization that has awarded more than $250,000 dollars in scholarships to more than 300 Englewood public school students in its 15 years of existence. All of the organizationĘźs fundraising events are organized by students who attend Dwight Morrow High School and the Academies@Englewood. Similar to Englewood Idol, students will take the lead in organizing EnglewoodĘźs Got Talent. Students from the Dr. John Grieco Scholarship Fund Club at Dwight Morrow High School are managing the marketing, publicity, ticket sales, and fundraising for the show. In addition, they are designing the set, the show PowerPoints, the script, the program, and the Cupcake Challenge. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We even have alumni helping us with the show, students like Qaadir Khan, who has graduated from the high school but still volunteers his time to manage our website,â&#x20AC;? said Aronson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our students learned so much about public service in high school and have continued that commitment in helping the Scholarship Fund; it is so gratifying to see.â&#x20AC;? For tickets and information, go to englewoodsgottalent.com.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The remains recovered so far appear to be old, but an attempt to date them would be premature at this time,â&#x20AC;? Musella said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The search of the scene is ongoing, as is the investigation regarding the origin of the bones. Additional bones have been recovered.â&#x20AC;? All excavation at the site has been halted, Musella said, thanking law enforcement partner agencies assisting the investigation. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Staff report

ENGLEWOOD

â&#x20AC;&#x153;EnglewoodĘźs Got Talentâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the Feb. 27, 7 p.m., BergenPAC show being produced by the extraordinary students, teachers, and parents who brought you Englewood Idolâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; will feature talented performances, now including pet tricks and a cupcake competition for baking enthusiasts. World-renowned pastry chef Florian Bellanger, star of the hit series â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cupcake Challenge,â&#x20AC;? will be on site to judge the cupcakes and award the grand prize of a personalized one-on-one culinary tour of his New York City pastry studio. The highlight of this yearĘźs show will be live performances of gifted artists of all ages, including: singer Mia Rose AngeLina Miller; dancer Chaney; dancer TaĘźMya Jones; singer Temple Goldson; dancer AngeLay Chaney; singer Tracianna Wolcott; singer Mya Rodriguez; rapper and lyricist Jarrett Mckinney; dancers Jayla ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE Ebanks, Sebastian Salazar, and SERVICE DIRECTORY IN THE NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS. Samantha Whilby; singer Storm Giles; performer Joey Liberti; singer Gianna Scarpa; hoopla artist Jana Sperber; performer Alexander Dorf; singer and librarian Esperanza town Pacheco; talented performer of his own music Andre Williams; performer Kennedy Smith; and the very talented vocalist, singing his original music, Rory DĘźLasnow. Special ensemble perform ances will also feature the

thought could be human remains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Upon further investigation, several bones were recovered and one in particular appeared to resemble a portion of a human skull,â&#x20AC;? Musella said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The New Jersey State Anthropologist was also consulted and confirmed that the bones appeared to be human.â&#x20AC;? The excavation at the site was then halted and the scene was secured pending further investigation, Musella said.

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Community Calendar AT THE LIBRARY

CRESSKILL 53 Union Ave. cresskilllibrary.org (201) 567-3521 • Kids can join the library for an Olaf Craft on Monday, Feb. 24 at 4 p.m. Do you want to build a snowman? Sign up in advance. • Put your “Frozen” knowledge to the test and win cool prizes at Frozen Jeopardy: Trivia Game, Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 3:30 p.m. Drop in, no registration required. • Tot Time, for kids 2–4, meets Wednesdays at 11 a.m. until March 4. Join for stories, songs, crafts and more. Register in

advance. • Chair Yoga is every Wednesday at 1 p.m. For adults. No sign-ups necessary, just drop by. • Watch the movie “Frozen 2” on Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 3:30 p.m.in the program room. All are welcome; no sign up required. • Baby & Me, for newborns to 24 months, meets Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. until March 5. Babies and their caregivers will listen to interactive stories, sing songs and rhyme. Register in advance. • Play games, eat snacks and make a craft at the Frozen Party! There will also be “Frozen” short

films shown in celebration of “Frozen 2.” Registration required. Thursday, Feb. 27 at 3:30 p.m. • Volunteer Homework Helpers will be at the library to help students in grades K–6, Thursday, Feb. 27 at 3:30 p.m. Drop in; no registration. • The Nintendo Switch Club for kids and teens meets every Friday from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Play the libraryʼs console with your friends. No registration necessary. EN GLEWOOD 31 Engle St. englewoodlibrary.org

(201) 568-2215 • The Teen Nintendo Switch Game Club meets Monday, Feb. 24 from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Teen Room. • Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art practiced for both its defense training and health benefits. Instructor Kung-Ming Jan of Tenafly is a cardiologist and longtime practitioner of both Shaolin yoga and tai chi chuan. Meets Monday, Feb. 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. • Guitar Story Time with Mr. John is Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 10:30 a.m. Stop by for songs, stories and dancing! For kids up to 5 years old. • Kids grades K and up can make Mardi Gras Masks on Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m. Learn about Mardi Gras and make your own decorative masks for the holiday. Registration preferred. • Children 6 and up can make beautiful works of art inspired by classical artists at Art Kids Academy, Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 5:30 p.m. Registration required. • At Strategies For Buying & Selling a Home, Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m., a representative from Bergen County Properties will discuss real estate, how to buy and renovate a home for less as well as how to sell your house in order to make more profit. • Films for Seniors, Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 10 a.m., will be showing “Going in Style” (2017; 96 minutes; rated PG). In the film, three lifelong pals risk it all by embarking on a daring bid to knock off the very bank that absconded with their money. This program, held the last Wednesday

of the month, presents a film specially selected for the enjoyment of the senior population. • Author, historian, and former Assemblyman Arnold Brown will discuss African-American cemeteries in Bergen County, including the Gethsemane Cemetery in Little Ferry, which is a county historic site. Burial Grounds: African-American Cemeteries in Bergen County will be presented Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. • Meditation has been known to reduce stress, relieve pain and recharge mind and body. Sahaja yoga meditation is easy to learn, and all ages or cultural backgrounds are welcome to attend. Attendees can sit either in a chair or on the floor and should wear loose, comfortable clothing to the hour-long sessions. Wednesday, Feb. 26 from 7 to 8 p.m. • Bendy Bookworm, toddler yoga for ages 18 months to 3 years, is back for a fun combo of yoga, stories and rhymes, Thursday, Feb. 27 at 10 a.m. • Register for Computer Help For Adults, coordinated by teen volunteers, to be held on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 12:30 p.m. • The final Black History Film Series screening will be “Harriet,” Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. Free and open to the public. • Instructor Olivia Qiu leads a free Yoga Class each Thursday evening at 7 p.m. Focus will be relaxation though gentle stretching and breathwork; no prior yoga experience necessary. Students should bring a mat.

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his professional film career, which took off in 1979, with a documentary he made titled, “In a Struggle for Youth Achievement,” that was shown on TV Channel 13 and Channel 31. Twenty years later, Lee recalled that he came to Englewood because of an ad that promised “jobs of a lifetime paying $10 an hour.” “People who responded to that ad were moved into the Fourth Ward that was designated for African American people.” As Lee continued to fascinate the audience with recollections, Thomas “Moose” Monroe, the venerated Dwight Morrow High School coach who is Leeʼs good friend and an Englewood historian, added additional information. Monroe has lived his entire life in the Fourth Ward, and, as such, knows many people and events of historical importance. There followed a short video montage from Leeʼs opus that depicted the legacy, history and

FROM PAGE 1

contributions of the first African Americans in Englewoodʼs Fourth Ward and an anecdotal journey of their daughters, sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren. “The Fourth Ward became home to African Americans who migrated to Englewood with strong southern roots,” Lee said. The entire film can be viewed on YouTube. It includes archival photos of Englewood that date back centuries—the old railway station, Englewood Hospital, the Englewood Public Library, the Mackay School, Dwight Morrow High School, the Liberty School, Englewood City Hall, the Englewood Field Club, the Revolutionary Field House and the first Englewood Fire House. There is also a panorama of well-known Englewood streets, such as Palisade Avenue, with horse-drawn carriages and vintage automobiles. Leeʼs film captures seminal events in the city, such as the march for school integration and

Sam Lee offered insight to Rotarians about his next project, “The History of Slavery in Bergen County,” examining a seldom told local story about enslaved peoples during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. the annual Jabari Societyʼs Juneteenth parade commemorating the end of slavery in America. Some of the most interesting pieces of footage are interviews

School officials reinstated as BOE faces lawsuit BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

ENGLEWOOD

While Englewoodʼs school board voted Feb. 13 to reinstate four school officials suspended in a 2017 grade-changing scheme, earlier this month Englewoodʼs schools superintendent filed a complaint against the city school board and its attorney alleging “major dysfunctions” in district operations and retaliation against him due to the scandal. So far, published estimates put school district legal costs in the grade-changing scandal and related fallout at nearly $3 million, with more legal fees and litigation still to be resolved. Schools Superintendent Robert Kravitz filed a complaint in Superior Court that named the school board, Business Administrator Cheryl Balleto, and Dennis McKeever, an attorney who represented the board in arbitration hearings, as responsible for retaliation against him.

3,000-plus changes found In February 2017, the Dwight Morrow High School Principal and nine more district employees were suspended when an independent review determined more than 3,000 changes were made to graduation credits and grades the year before. Initially, Kravitz was told the grade changes were due to a glitch in data migration to a new digital records database. In September 2017, the district moved to dismiss eight employees due to a state Department of Education compliance report that cited district officials for violating state law by not

enforcing graduation requirements and allowing courses to be taught by uncertified teachers. In so doing, the administrationʼs move to dismiss the employees challenged their protections under tenure. In his lawsuit, Kravitz claims 11 administrative officials and guidance counselors were involved in the grade-changing scheme and he faced retaliation when he raised alarms about the illegal behavior. He said some of the individuals who faced charges had connections to school board members and had provided favors for their children, who attended district schools. In addition, Kravitz claims that the attorney handling charges against employees committed mistakes that led to ethics violation charges filed against him. Moreover, he charges that McKeever and Balleto had previous ties in another district, and following McKeeverʼs appointment as attorney, both put pressure on Kravitz to drop the charges against tenured employees due to a lack of funds to press such litigation. However, Kravitz charges, this claim of lack of funds was proven not true in a state audit of district funds. Kravitz noted he was requested to retract statements he made about the officials facing tenure charges in September 2019, but he said he refused because the allegations were backed up by documents. He then claimed the school board voted against his 2019 merit goal pay of $35,000 as retaliation for his refusal to back down on the tenure charges. Kravitzʼs complaint alleges more retaliation, noting his email accounts were under surveillance

and that Balleto and McKeever leaked his personal information, which impaired his reputation, led to rumors he might resign, and denied him posts in other districts due to the tenure charge situation in Englewood. Also, a hostile work environment claim was filed by Balleto. Kravitzʼs lawsuit seeks a payment of $70,000 for lost merit pay in 2019 and 2020, plus attorneysʼ fees, interest, and damages for “humiliation, mental and emotional distress.” On Feb. 13, the city school board voted to reinstate Joseph Armental, Nicole Cartwright, Venus Rose, and Luis Sanchez. Cartwright, Rose and Sanchez returned to previous posts as counselors at Dwight Morrow High School and Armental was reinstated as director of athletics. Armental previously served as the highʼs schoolʼs assistant principal. All were previously suspended as a result of the grade/creditchanging scandal. In a 260-page document released by the school district in September 2017, they alleged administrators were aware of grading and transcript errors, including students getting credit for courses not taken, but took no corrective action. The document charged guidance counselors and principals for failing to keep accurate records and noted the 3,000-plus credit and grade changes allowed students to graduate without completing required credits. Officials said nearly 300 students were affected by the credit/grade changes and nearly 100 seniors had to complete extra coursework and attend Saturday classes.

with longtime Englewood residents, such as Arnold Brown, Marlene Wyche Tinsley, Monroe, and Michelle McCloud-West, daughter of Dr. John McCloud. Lee believes that, “talking to the community you begin to realize that the most important traces of a lost neighborhood are not traces found on city streets or filed in archives. They reside in a community as moments, sights and smells held in its imagination, the tools of personal interpretation we all possess.” Lee then discussed his latest project, “The History of Slavery in Bergen County,” that is being funded in part by the Puffin Foundation. “When I started researching this project, I went to the library and looked through the book on Englewood that had been published in the 1980s. There were only three African Americans mentioned in the book, and I knew that there had to be more to the story of African Americans in Englewood.” So, Lee set about gathering and digitalizing a huge collection

of information. He interviewed dozens of individuals in numerous communities, including people whose great-grandparents lived during the era of slavery. “Once you know somebodyʼs story, you have a common bond,” he said. “This project has been a wonderful journey and I look forward to doing much more.” He added, “The History of Slavery in Bergen County is proving to be very interesting. In the 17th century, Bergen County had more slaves than any other county in New Jersey. For every five white people there was one slave. Through research, I am trying to document the slave narrative.” Although Leeʼs work captures many challenging historical moments when racism was widely practiced, the overall theme is inspirational. “African Americans in this community started as a single thread of unskilled laborers, domestic workers and servants and wove this yarn into a rich tapestry of diverse, talented and acclaimed individuals.”

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FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

Noted filmmaker examined city’s Fourth Ward

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

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The Lʼifestyle Lounge in Closter is a haven for those of all ages interested in yoga, mindfulness, and meditation. Clients learn how to move, breathe and eat mindfully based on the philosophy of founder Laura Cipullo, a registered dietitian, certified eating disorder specialist, certified diabetes educator, registered yoga teacher and Bergen County mom. The Lounge proudly offers nutrition appointments with its registered dietitians. “Clients will learn how to nourish their bodies while liberating themselves from food anxiety,” The Lʼifestyle Lounge says. “Our Registered Dietitians educate clients on physical, emotion-

al, and behavioral hunger while implementing skills to honor their emotional and biological needs.” Learn how to apply Cipulloʼs motto—“Eat Kale and Cupcakes!”—along with the “Five Pillars of Positive Nutrition.” “We offer nutrition sessions for issues including eating disorders, diabetes, endocrine and hormonal issues, gastrointestinal issues, and family nutrition,” The Lʼifestyle Lounge says. The Lʼifestyle Loungeʼs Lisa Mikus, RD, CNSC, CDN, certified nutrition support clinician and author, specializes in treating clients with eating disorders. Mikus has worked for Laura Cipullo Whole Nutrition Services

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for over five years. She strives to make each client feel comfortable and understood while approaching each session with an energetic and non-judgmental outlook. Mikus offers individual nutrition sessions, grocery shopping, cooking lessons and mindful meal support which aims to help clients neutralize their relationship with food in the context of eating disorder recovery. “Our sessions range from a one-hour initial evaluation to 60minute, 45-minute, and 30minute follow up appointments,” said Cipullo. The Lʼifestyle Lounge is located at 308 Harrington Ave., Closter. To book an appointment, call (917) 572-7137, go online to lauracipullo.com or email info@lauracipullo.com.

ENGLEWOOD

SCHOOLS TO REGISTER INCOMING YOUNGSTERS The Englewood Public School District will begin pre-kindergarten and kindergarten enrollment for the 2020 school year on Feb. 19. Students will be enrolled on a first come, first served basis. No appointment is required during the month of February; however, after March 2 an appointment will be necessary. The dates and times to enroll are as follows: weekdays, Feb. 19 to Feb. 28, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.; and Saturdays, Feb. 22 and

Feb. 29, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Age requirements are as follows: a pre-K3 student must be 3 years old before Oct. 1, 2020; a PK4 student must be 4 years old before Oct. 1, 2020; and a kindergarten student must be 5 years old before Oct. 1, 2020. For any additional registration questions, contact the Office of the Registrar by phone at 201862-6212 or email at registrar@epsd.org. You may also visit the website epsd.org.

NORTHERN VALLEY

Harmonica club open mics March 2

The Garden State Harmonica Club invites you to open mics on March 2 at 7:30 p.m. at The Community Church, 354 Rock Road, Glen Rock, entrance on Hamilton Ave. The club invites anyone interested in harmonica music or lessons to join the group to play or listen. Light refreshments are always available.

Among celebrity members are the amazing Abe Barzelay; performer and teacher Gary Mettler; harmonicist and former lead singer of Blood, Sweat & Tears Rob Paparozzi, and Rob Fletcher of The Harmoniacs. The clubʼs ensemble can be booked to play for groups for a reasonable fee. It entertains at retirement and veteransʼ homes, churches,

clubs, assisted living centers, civic groups, libraries, schools, and private parties. The Garden State Harmonica Club was founded in 1971. New members are welcome. Annual dues are $35. For more information, call (917) 771-1166 or write gardenstateharmonicaclub@hotmail.com.

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

ENGLEWOOD

A proposal for an $18,600 “environmental assessment” of Liberty School—the nearly 120-yearold historic building whose fate council and community members have debated for years with no action taken—was approved at the Feb. 18 City Council meeting. The resolution awarding the contract was approved as part of the councilʼs “consent agenda” and members offered no comments. On Feb. 4, however, Interim City Manager Jewel ThompsonChin said that the study by T&M Associates was due to “concerns” about possible environmental issues there. She said the study would likely be included for interested parties should the city decide to issue a future request for proposals. The study includes a preliminary building assessment, and testing for asbestos, lead-based paint, and universal waste. It notes a 30-45 day timeline for completion. The “universal waste survey” involves visual inspection of the building for PCB-containing electrical equipment such as transformers and light ballasts, plus potential mercury liquid-filled equipment and refrigerant systems. ʻNeed to be definedʼ “We know in advance that there are some environmental issues but they need to be defined,” said Thompson-Chin, discussing the assessment. She said the study will “document conditions” at Liberty School and that if conditions are severe, a second study may be necessary to detail conditions and offer options. Thompson-Chin said “any concerns or red flags” may also require a Phase II environmental study to follow-up.

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Answering Councilwoman Katharine Glynnʼs question Feb. 4, she said she anticipated study results in about a month.

ʻPositive first stepʼ Approving an environmental study was viewed as a “positive first step” for future preservation and use of Liberty School by Pastor Sanetta Ponton of Metro Community Church in Englewood. Ponton and an architect hired by Metro Community Church presented a proposal for a 55,000square-foot community center at Liberty School to City Council in December 2019. Ponton estimated the buildingʼs cost between $12 million to $15 million. Already, church members have raised over $1 million in a capital campaign to construct a new church facility and community center, Ponton said. Pontonʼs architect presented a number of detailed drawings that showed it would preserve Liberty Schoolʼs historic facades and include a three-story, 15,000square-foot addition. She said several times during her presentation that she hoped the council would consider the churchʼs proposal and work together to begin conversations about their proposal. Despite a follow-up email to council members, no further communication occurred, she said. Community Center or ratables? “Weʼre hoping that an environmental study is helpful to us and can give us a potential understanding of what we are getting ourselves into. This [community center] proposal is not going to be a never-ending process for us. The question is, do they want a community center at all, or do they only want new development to bring in ratables?” said Ponton. Ponton said some preliminary inspections of Liberty School by a contractor who offered an unofficial

evaluation found evidence of asbestos and lead paint, not surprising in a 120-year-old structure. “We would love to be able to sit down and talk about the actual proposal and gain access to the school,” Ponton said. She said Metro Community Church spent tens of thousands of dollars to conduct preliminary investigations and develop its Liberty School proposal.

ʻA volatile issueʼ Ponton said she realizes the fate of Liberty School is “a volatile issue for the council” as itʼs one of the last historic buildings in Englewood centrally located near a busy downtown nexus. “Itʼs in a wonderful location. It anchors the downtown and itʼs right across from apartments being built directly across the street,” noted Ponton. Ponton noted the impacts of “gentrification”—displacement of lower-income families as a neighborhood renovates and land values and taxes increase—is happening in the city “and people feel pushed out and neglected.” She said the churchʼs proposal cannot compete with development that brings in tax revenues. Ponton said the community center/church facility it proposes would be devoted to community programs for at least six days a week and only partially used for services on Sundays. Contacted about the Metro Church proposal, Mayor Michael Wildes called for a “provocative use of space” at Liberty School, and possibly a mixed-use development with residential and retail use. He said steps to focus on Liberty School “should have been taken a decade ago.” ʻCommitment to Englewoodʼ “Our commitment to Englewood and working alongside of the city to develop a community center at Liberty School remains…We

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hope the Council will seriously consider issuing an RFP in the very near future, to which Metro absolutely intends to respond,” emailed Ponton to council members Dec. 12, following up on her presentation to the council. Ponton said she received no replies.

Church awaits City Council Ponton said then the church would not proceed forward with Liberty School plans without guidance from council members. Frequent calls for action over the last few years by residents on the now-shuttered Liberty School have mostly gone unanswered.

In 2019, members often cited the half-dozen public forums contracted for with a consultant as the first step to gauge public opinion on a community center at Liberty School. However, only one forum was held in May 2019 by the consultant, and no follow-up or further forums were held. The city declared Liberty School and the surrounding site “an area in need of redevelopment” in early 2018 based on an evaluation that determined the grounds to be in poor shape and due to its “smart growth” location near a pedestrian-friendly downtown, shopping and public transit.

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FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

New ‘assessment’ study for Liberty School approved

Cliffs: Judge OKs 600-unit housing development ruling to require the borough to allow zoning for 347 affordable units, including the 100-plus units at 800 Sylvan Ave. and a 57-unit, 100 percent affordable complex on a 2-acre parcel now occupied by the borough complex, parking area and a Lions Club. Since 2015, Englewood Cliffs has been in litigation over its affordable housing obligations with intervenors Fair Share Housing Center and Normandy Real Estate Partners. In order to fulfill its affordable obligations on its own without the Normandy Real Estate proposal, the borough proposed constructing 57 affordable units in a 100 percent affordable complex on a 2-acre tract occupied by the borough building, parking area and Lions Club. That proposal should satisfy the boroughʼs obligation, asserted the borough, making the Normandy Real Estate Partnersʼ highdensity proposal unneeded, said borough officials. Judge Farrington disagreed,

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

FROM PAGE 1

citing the boroughʼs nearly four decades of permitted development, which occurred without one single unit of affordable housing being built. In her Jan. 17 ruling, Farrington gave the borough 90 days to change its zoning to allow for 347 units of affordable housing. “Englewood Cliffs is required to build hundreds of new homes affordable to working families and people with disabilities—after violating the stateʼs fair housing laws for decades,” said Anthony Campisi, a spokesman for Fair Share Housing Center, an intervenor in Mount Laurel litigation statewide.

ʻStripped of all zoning powersʼ “The decision by Farrington requires borough officials to provide a plan within 90 days to build 347 homes to satisfy the townʼs fair housing obligations under the Mount Laurel doctrine or be stripped of all zoning powers,” Campisi said. Campisi said that Farring-

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tonʼs January ruling found that the town “had failed to ever build a single affordable home while attempting to use the stateʼs fair housing laws as a shield to continue practices designed to exclude low-income families.” “In the meantime, the town approved substantial other development, such as the new headquarters for LG [1000 Sylvan Ave.],” said Campisi. “Judge Farrington thus found Englewood Cliffs had demonstrated it was a ʻrecalcitrant municipality with a clear pattern of exclusionary behavior,ʼ” Campisi told Northern Valley Press.

Legal fees requested Campisi said Fair Share Housing also filed a counterclaim to recover its legal fees expended during the trial, something the advocacy group has done in other contentious cases. Farringtonʼs order approving the Normandy Partnersʼ proposal notes the plan must follow sound planning criteria and not have any “environmental or other constraints.” It requires the borough to provide adequate capacity for all utilities and sewers at sites required for affordable housing. Over the last year, and especially at a raucous July public meeting, vocal residents called for borough officials to oppose any settlement with Normandy Real Estate or Fair Share Housing Center that would create the opportunity for high-density affordable units. ʻConsistently opposedʼ

Farringtonʼs Jan. 17 ruling noted that the borough “consistently opposed…the resolution of litigation” over four-plus years of negotiations and throughout the trial continued to claim that it did not know what its affordable housing obligation is under New Jersey law.” Kevin Walsh, Fair Shareʼs executive director, said over 300 towns statewide have settled affordable housing obligations and Englewood Cliffs was an exception. He said Farringtonʼs decision holds the borough accountable after decades of violating affordable housing law. ʻDeepening inequalityʼ “Judge Farrington appointed an attorney to oversee Englewood Cliffsʼ implementation of her order, which includes adopting new zoning for the borough that will allow it to meet its obligation,” said Walsh. “The ruling comes after Judge Farrington stripped the borough of protection from affordable housing suits brought by builders—a testament, she said, to its continued refusal to act in good faith and to deepening inequality in the town,” Walsh added. In response, Kranjac emailed Northern Valley Press to question Walshʼs motives and recent advancement in Gov. Phil Murphyʼs administration. “We will advance claims against [Fair Share] to expose them as a tool of the Democratic Party and the construction industry. It should not be lost on your readers that the Chief Executive officer of Fair Share Housing, Kevin Walsh,

last week left (Fair Share) to work for his large donor, Governor Murphy, as New Jersey Comptroller, thereby ensuring that the interests and values of hardworking NJ taxpayers will now be disregarded even more,” wrote Kranjac. Under the stateʼs 1985 Fair Housing Act, all municipalities are required to create the opportunity to provide their “fair share” of affordable housing. Initially, the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) was created in 1985 under the Fair Housing law to help calculate “fair share” housing obligations for municipalities. No more COAH Through 1999, COAH conducted two rounds of calculating local affordable housing obligations. From 1999 through 2015, COAH was largely ineffective in setting affordable housing obligations as legal challenges and political inertia caused COAH to become dysfunctional. The state Supreme Court declared COAH defunct in 2015 and handed affordable housing obligations to Superior Courts to be negotiated and settled. Most municipalities were advised then to file “declaratory judgments” in 2015 to begin the legal process of negotiating local affordable housing obligations. The current “third round” of affordable obligations includes the “gap period” between 1999 and 2015 and 2015-2025. The “fourth round” of affordable housing obligations begins again in 2025, unless some change occurs beforehand.

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onHEALTH

Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jerseyʼs largest and most integrated health care network, is pleased to announce that Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, chief executive officer of Hacken-

Robert C. Garrett

sack Meridian Health, is ranked as one of the top five in the 2020 NJBIZ Power 100 list. He ranks fifth on the NJBIZ list that places Gov. Phil Murphy in the top spot. This is the fourth consecutive year Garrett has been recognized among the NJBIZ Power 100 list—this year, rising in the ranks to the Top 10. NJBIZ highlights leaders who directly impact development of the stateʼs economy, with many of this yearʼs honorees leading companies with a focus on the future. Under Garrettʼs leadership, Hackensack

Meridian Health has forged partnerships to advance cancer and behavioral health treatment, medical education, and innovation. “I want to congratulate Bob Garrett on this well-deserved recognition,” said Gordon N. Litwin, Esq., chair of the Hackensack Meridian Health Board of Trustees. “Consistently leading by example, he fully embodies our mission to transform health care and serves as a leader of positive change.” Hackensack Meridian Health recently merged with Carrier Clinic, the highly regarded New Jersey-based behavioral health provider, to transform the treatment of addiction and mental illness in New Jersey and beyond. In July 2018, Hackensack Meridian Health partnered with Seton Hall University to open the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, New Jerseyʼs first private medical school in decades, to reinvent medical education and prepare graduates for a new state of health care. A thought leader and industry expert, Garrett has been invited to participate and speak at international and national events, such as the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland; the Fourth International Vatican Conference, Unite to Cure: A Global Health Care Initiative, Beckerʼs Hospital Reviewʼs Annual CEO & CFO Roundtable; HealthGrades

ENGLEWOOD

AVALOS JOINS ENGLEWOOD HEALTH

Internist Cesar Avalos, MD, has joined the Englewood Health Physician Network. “Dr. Avalosʼs clinical focus is primary care, including prevention and wellness, immunization and screening, and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and pulmonary disease,” the organization said. “He joins HVA Medical Group and welcomes new patients to his practice locations in Fair Lawn and Woodland Park.” Avalos is board certified in internal medicine. He received his MD from Ross University School of Medicine and did an internal medicine residency at St. Josephʼs University Medical Center (New York Medical College), in Paterson. In addition to his MD, Dr. Avalos holds a DPM from New York College of Podiatric Medicine. “He joins Englewood Health

from Morristown Medical Center, where he was a hospitalist in the Department of Internal Medicine,” the organization said. To reach Dr. Avalos or to find a physician at Englewood Health, visit englewoodhealth.org or call (833) 234-2234.

Dr. Cesar Avalos

HealthShare Symposium; and Beckerʼs Hospital Reviewʼs annual meeting. Garrett received an honorary doctorate from Felician Univer-

sity in New Jersey in May 2019 and was recently named one of 10 CEOs Transforming Healthcare in America by CEO Forum Magazine.

He is the top-ranked health care executive in New Jersey on ROI Influencers Power List 2019.

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

Garrett, of HMH, rises into top five on ‘Power 100’ list

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

FOCUS

onHEALTH

The savvy senior: Tips to Protect Seniors Against Census Scams Dear Savvy Senior, How might seniors guard against census scams? Wi t h the 2020 census gearing up, I’ve read that BY JIM MILLER scammers are looking to take advantage of older people. I want to protect myself. — Cautious Judy Dear Judy, Unfortunately, scams have become a persistent problem

when the U.S. Census Bureau does its once-a-decade count of the U.S. population. Here’s what you can expect from the 2020 Census in the coming weeks, and how you can protect yourself from potential scams.

What to Expect In mid-March, you and nearly every other U.S. household will receive an invitation in the mail to respond to the 2020 Census. This year, you will have the option of completing the 2020 census questionnaire either online, by mail, or by phone. The invitation will include

detailed instructions of what you need to do. If you don’t respond to this invitation letter, you will receive several follow-up postcard reminders from the Census Bureau by mail. If you still don’t respond by late April, a census worker will come to your door to collect your response in person. It only takes a few minutes to complete the census questionnaire. While census participation is very important and required by law, you also need to be vigilant of census-linked scams. This is especially important for seniors

who tend to be prime targets. The Census Bureau warns against phishing email scams as well as con artists masquerading as census workers who will try to solicit your personal financial information. Here are some tips that can help you protect yourself.

Guard Your Information Don’t give out your personal or financial information. The Census Bureau or a legitimate census worker will never ask for your Social Security number, bank account number, credit card number, money or donations. And they will never contact you on behalf of a political party. If you’re asked for any of these, whether it be via phone, mail, email or in person, it’s a scam and should be reported to rumors@census.gov. Avoid Online Scams The Census Bureau will not send you an unsolicited email to request your participation in the 2020 Census. So, ignore any emails you get that may direct you to a census website that looks real but is fake – and may be infected with malware. Also, don’t reply to the email or open any attachment because they could contain viruses that could infect your computer. Forward the email or website address to the Census Bureau at rumors@census.gov. Then delete the message.

Be Safe at Home If someone visits your home to collect a response for the 2020 Census, make sure you verify their identity. A legitimate census taker must present a field badge that includes a photograph of themselves, a Department of Commerce watermark and an expiration date. Census workers will also be carrying a Census Bureau laptop or cellphone, as well as a bag with a Census Bureau logo. Also, remember that a census worker will only ask you the questions that appear on the questionnaire – your name, gender, age, race, ethnicity, phone number, type of residence and number of people living with you. They will not ask for sensitive personal information, such as your Social Security or credit card number. If you have questions about their identity, you can call 800923-8282 to speak with a local Census Bureau representative. If it is determined that the visitor who came to your door does not work for the Census Bureau, contact your local police department. For more information, visit 2020census.gov. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

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ENGLEWOOD

Baseball star Darryl Strawberry to discuss overcoming addiction April 22

Prevent contracting the seasonal flu virus by getting your flu vaccine at American Family Care. Our priority is to keep you, your family and our community healthy. Walk-ins are Welcome. Flu shots are $0 with most insurance plans. Together, we can help stop the spread of this this serious and contagious disease.

Darryl Strawberry will be the guest-speaker at the fifth annual Stigma-Free Town Hall Meeting on April 22 at 7 p.m. in the Dizzy Gillespie Auditorium at Dwight Morrow High School, 274 Knickerbocker Road, Englewood. “Although Darryl was extremely successful in his career, his personal life was plagued with addictions, abuse, divorces, cancer, jailtime, and other issues,” say event organizers. “He is described as a legend by many who have been dazzled by the dynamics of his game, the power he possessed at the plate and the story of redemption that continues to bring hope to so many lives today.” Englewood was declared a Stigma Free Zone by the

City Council in July 2015. Community members work with the Englewood Municipal Alliance educating residents to eliminate stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders. Now known as Stigma Free Englewood, the program has organized a town hall meeting annually since 2016, each featuring a renowned keynote speaker and addressing a specific mental health topic. Advance registration and a ticket for entry is required. To register, call Denise Dominguez at (201) 568-3450, ext. 505, or go to bit.ly/ewstigmafree20. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for agency distribution of information and resources and networking. Ticket numbers will be entered in a raffle for a door prize.

The Tenafly Senior Center announces the following upcoming programming. The center is located at 20 South Summit St. and can be reached at (201) 569-2159.

Downsizing with Beth Mardi Gras Style Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 2 p.m. Come learn some tips about downsizing. Get some answers to any questions you have about selling your home all while celebrating Mardi Gras! Refreshments will be served. Sponsored by Coldwell Bankers. You have a Purpose! Be Positive Thursday, Feb. 27 at 1:30 p.m. Everyone has a purpose in this life and world. Everyone is extremely important to the process, which makes the world turn. Problem is, most donʼt understand how important, valuable, and necessary they are. They have been made to feel as though they are just a number, that oneʼs value is determined by the amount of resources they have, whether it be money or material possessions. The truth is, your value is determined by yourself and no one else. Join this event and be enlightened, organizers say.

Menʼs Cooking Class Thursday, March 5 at 6 p.m. ($60 for four sessions March 5, 12, 19 and 26) Come learn the basics and beyond. Seats are limited. Sign up today! Story of Romania: Struggle, Endurance, Tragedy and Hope Thursday, March 5 at 1:30 p.m. Join the center for a presentation on the history, geography and the culture of Romania. Romania is a country of great diversity and cultural richness in East-Central Europe. Come learn about Romaniaʼs struggle for survival, achievements, disappointments and challenges. Dr. Josef Machac will be giving this lecture. Wellness Tea Party Thursday, March 12 at 1:30 p.m. What better way is there to give your immune system a boost than to use natureʼs precious resources! Tea has been used for centuries to heal the mind, body and soul. Come listen as we explore the medicinal qualities of this wonderful plant. Normal Aging or Dementia Thursday, March 19 at 1 p.m.

Forgetfulness is annoying, but is it Dementia? Learn the difference between normal aging and Dementia. The topics to be discussed at this informative lecture are the following: Why individuals become more forgetful as they age; strategies and tips; and the early signs of Dementia. Vivian Green Korner, MA, CDP Certified Dementia Practitioner will be the speaker.

Manual Lymph Drainage Garbage Out, Wellness In Friday, March 20 at 2 p.m. Manual Lymph Drainage is another gentle-touch therapy that assists your body to attain and sustain proper functioning of the human fluid system. Proper functioning of the lymphatic system is critical to oneʼs bodyʼs ability to drain stagnant fluids, detoxify, regenerate tissues, filter out toxin and foreign substances and maintain a healthy immune system. This is part two of a four session wellness series given by Catherine Perman of Body Therapeutics of Fort Lee.

attorney Andrey Milvidskiy. He will be speaking about Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts, Medicaid and Long Care Planning. This will be an open forum. Please bring specific questions pertaining to these subjects.

Drum Circle Friday, March 27 at 2 p.m. Come explore a new/old way of having fun while reducing stress. No musical experience is needed! Seats are limited. Sign up today.

Question and Answer on Elder Law Wednesday, March 25 at 1:30 p.m. This talk will be presented by

Arthritis: OA vs RA

Identifying symptoms, prognosis and lifestyle Tuesday, March 31 at 2 p.m. This presentation is sponsored by the Buckingham Care & Rehabilitation Center. Director of Nursing Marsha Cill, NP will be giving this very informative talk. Plan ahead for a a trip Monday–Wednesday, Sept 14–16 Join the seniors on a trip to Lake George and Sarasota Springs. Stop in for a full itinerary. The cost is $465 for double occupancy or $555 for single occupancy.

Read All About It! Want to receive our weekly digital news edition? Subscribe on our website, www.northernvalleypress.com, or on our Facebook page!

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FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

onHEALTH

Here’s what’s happening at Tenafly Senior Center

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Tenafly Nature Center’s March 15 dinner supports its mission

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

16 TENAFLY

Raise a glass and support one of the oldest and largest nature centers in Bergen County! The Tenafly Nature Centerʼs Annual Dinner will take place on Sunday, March 15, at 5:30 p.m. at the Knickerbocker Country Club in Tenafly. More than 200 guests are expected to attend. This year, the Foundersʼ Award for Conservation will honor Bristol-Myers Squibb and longtime supporter, Andrew Mikesh for their support and assistance to Tenafly Nature Center, enabling TNC to fulfill its mission, as well as the needs of the community. The dinner will help support the centerʼs ongoing success in providing environmental education, efforts in making the facilities and trails more community friendly, and the ongoing efforts to save Pfisterʼs Pond, the key aspect of

the TNCʼs biodiversity. This dinner is the Nature Centerʼs main fundraiser of the year. “Proceeds from the event help TNC staff and volunteers carry out the centerʼs mission of preserving and protecting nearly 400-acres of undeveloped Tenafly boroughowned land and educating over 26,000 people about the environment annually,” say organizers. “The centerʼs purpose is particularly important given Bergen Countyʼs status as the most populous county in the most denselypopulated state in the U.S., and the rarity of such a large tract of unspoiled woodlands in the suburban New York City area,” they said. “Having such open spaces dedicated for public use maintains the suburban character of Bergen County, enables residents to enjoy the unspoiled outdoors near their homes, and educates local school

NORTHERN VALLEY

Apply for Bergen LEADS class of 2021

Bergen Volunteer Center Bergen LEADS program is a 10 month community leadership program for adults who live or work in Bergen County. It aims to strengthen the community by connecting people through service and developing civic leaders. The program is guided by former Bergen County Executive William Schuber. Interactive, fast paced and experiential, the program is delivered through a series of “Issue Days,” which include discussion with community leaders, site visits, small group interaction and personal reflection. Each class completes a capstone project that provides an opportunity to develop solutions to real issues in Bergen County.

JEAN JACOBSON

Jean Jacobson, a 70 year resident of Englewood, died Jan. 30, 2020, at age 101. She passed peacefully. She is survived by her daughters, her grandchildren and their spouses: Ellen Levine and Richard U. Levine, MD, and Karen Jacobson and Barry Milberg and Daniel Levine and Kathleen Levine, Peter Levine and Naria Halliwell, Jeffrey Bruno and Jessica Bruno & Stephen Bruno and Melissa Bruno, as well as her great grandchildren Luc, Jake, Talia, Sofie, Sasha, Levi, Vida, Gemma, Rex, Lila and Greta. She loved her husband Eugene, her children and life itself! Jean and Eugene forever!

JOHN A. NAJARIAN

John Armen Najarian of Harrington Park passed away on Feb. 13, 2020, at the age of 88. A proud veteran, he served in the Army,

Bergen LEADS applications for the Class of 2021 are now available at bergenleads.org and are due by April 10. Bergen LEADS seeks representation from a broad array of ethnic, racial, religious and socio-economic groups. Applicants from business, nonprofit, civic faith-based, and government organizations, as well as from the community at large, are encouraged to apply. Tuition is $2,500 and scholarship assistance is available for those with financial need. To apply, go to www.bergenvolunteers.org/leads-experience. Contact Melissa LaRobardier at (201) 489-9454, ext. 206 or melissal@bergenvolunteers.org for additional information.

Pfister’s Pond at the Tenafly Nature Center. The center’s annual fundraising dinner is March 15. children about the natural world.” Less than 10% of the not-forprofit centerʼs annual budget comes from tax receipts. The Nature Center relies on the generosity of area businesses and individuals that see the value in preserving wild areas where families

can explore, run, hike, and simply observe their natural surroundings, and where displaced animals can take refuge. Tenafly Nature Center is a non-profit, independent, membersupported nature preserve located in Bergen County, New Jersey. We

TENAFLY

Club presenting program on invasive plants The Monday, March 2 meeting of the Tenafly Garden Club Inc. will be held in the Garden Room at the Davis Johnson Park and Gardens at Engle Street and Westervelt Avenue, Tenafly at 11:30 a.m. Linda Rohleder will present her program titled “Inva-

sive Plants” to the audience. Rohleder is director of land stewardship, coordinator of the Lower Hudson Partnership Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM). She has spent the past ten years creating a Native Habitat in her backyard. Program donation for non-

OBITUARIES

where he was wounded and awarded a Purple Heart. Survived by his beloved wife Sally, who he was married to for 62 years. Devoted father to his son Jeffrey and his wife Beverly, daughters Sharon and her husband Peter, and Sandy and her husband Sean. Cherished grandfather of Christa, Alexandra, Ariana, Jaqueline, and Jeffrey. Dear brother of Harold Najarian and the late Adrienne Mahlebjian. John will be missed by all who knew him. Family and friends were welcomed at Sts. Vartanantz, Ridgefield, on Saturday, Feb. 15, with a funeral service. Entombment at Garden of Memories in the Township of Washington. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sts. Vartanantz Church or to Camp Haiastan, 722 Summer Street, Franklin, MA 02038.

EMANUEL RICHARDSON

Emanuel Richardson, 79, of Englewood, passed away on Feb.

protect nearly 400 wooded acres, all of its inhabitants and teach the next generations to do the same. Since 1961, TNC has nurtured an appreciation for nature, been a leader in open-space preservation and in environmental education for the community and beyond.

14. Services were held at Eternity Funeral Services, Englewood, on Feb. 19.

THOMAS SOFIANIDES, M.D.

Thomas Sofianides, M.D., of Tenafly, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Friday, Feb. 14, 2020. Visitation was at Barrett Funeral Home, Tenafly on Sunday, Feb. 16. Funeral service held at Cathedral of St. John the Theologian, Tenafly on Feb. 17. Burial at Brookside Cemetery, Englewood.

GUS SERBOS

Gus Serbos, 84, of Englewood Cliffs, died on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2020. Born in Chios, Greece he was the owner of Serbos Furs. Beloved husband of the late Elly (nee: Soulios). Devoted father of Elaine Serbos and Matt Serbos. Cherished grandfather of Matthew, Alexander and Constantine. The family

received their friends on Friday, Feb. 14. Trisagion Service was at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Theologian (Tenafly). If so desired donations may be made to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital. For condolences, or information (201) 944-0100 or frankpatti.com.

CHARLES O. VALENTINE, JR.

Charles O. Valentine, Jr., age 100, passed away peacefully in his Englewood home on Sunday, Feb. 16, surrounded by his family. Devoted husband of 71 years to the late Madeline (Lynch) Valentine. Loving father of Patricia Sorbanelli, of Englewood, Lorraine Growney of Shoreham, Vt., Margaret Valentine of Effort, Penn. and the late Charles Valentine III (2011). He was loved by all and will be missed by his 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild along with their spouses and companions. Charles was born in the Bronx, N.Y. on March 12, 1919, to Charles,

members is $10. Donation proceeds go to Rutgers Gardens Scholarship Fund, care of Bruce Crawford, director. Refreshments follow the presentation with an opportunity for question and answer. All are welcome. For more information and to register, call (201) 568-8254.

Sr. and Augusta Valentine. The family moved to New Jersey and Charles graduated from Kearny High School. He and Madeline met and married in Kearny and soon afterwards moved to the Englewood home where he lived for over 75 years. Charles owned and operated Englewood TV for 33 years before retiring in 1986. His hobbies and interests were varied. He had an early interest in amateur radio and used that experience to serve his country in World War ll as a radio operator in the Signal Corps. He came from a long line of carpenters and used his skills to create many artistic treasures he happily gave to family and friends alike. Charles was an avid gardener and seemed to be able to fix almost anything that came to him for repair. He was a devout Catholic, attending daily mass at his parish St. Ceciliaʼs in Englewood where he was an active parishioner. The Funeral Mass was at St. Ceciliaʼs Church, Englewood, on Feb. 20. Burial at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.

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Community Calendar AT THE LIBRARY • In Stitches, a knitting and crochet group, meets Sunday, March 1 from 1:30 to 4 p.m. FROM PAGE 8

TEANECK 840 Teaneck Road teanecklibrary.org (201) 837-4171 • Join the library for America Saves, in the auditorium, Feb. 24 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Since 2007 America Saves Week has been an annual celebration as well as a call to action for everyday Americans to commit to saving successfully. The America Saves pledge is the framework that allows savers to set a goal, and make a plan to achieve better financial stability. • Lego Club, for ages 6 and up, meets Monday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. After a story, participants build Legos based on the bookʼs theme. Advance registration is required. Teaneck residents are given priority. • The library provides beginner Internet Training on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 10 a.m. Get help concerning how to: use a computer keyboard and mouse; set up and utilize an e-mail account; navigate the internet; conduct a job search online; and download eBooks from the BCCLS catalogue/website onto an eReader. Basic instructions on Microsoft Word or other office skills can also be provided. Bring your Teaneck Library card to class. Sessions are 30 minutes and take place in the Reference Room. • English as a Second Language (ESL) Conversation Group meets Tuesday afternoons from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Mayor Lizette Parker Memorial room on the main floor. The practice group is open to anyone who would like to improve their English skills by actively participating in group conversation led by a trained tutor. No registration is necessary. • Teen Gaming Tuesdays, featuring board games, card games or video games, is Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m. No registration required; for teens only. • Kids 3 to 5 can Leap Into Science for Littles, Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 10:30 a.m. Following a story, children will investigate the properties of wind and air as they explore its effects on other objects. Best for children age 3 to 5. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. No registration

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required. • There will be a Preschool Storytime on Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 3 p.m., for preschoolers 3 and up. No registration required. • The library and the Art of Living Foundation host Free Chair Yoga and Meditation, Wednesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. with Sujatha Nair. • The Teen Drop-In activity is Thursday, Feb. 27 at 4 p.m. No sign up required. Feel free to call and confirm. • Children 6 and up can Leap Into Science: Wind Workshop, Thursday, Feb. 27 at 4:30 p.m. In a series of activity stations, families will investigate the properties of wind and air as they explore its effects on other objects. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. No registration required. • At “Moving Forward 20/20 Vision: Your Vote is Critical”—Thursday, Feb. 27 at 7 p.m.—take a glance at the past through a presentation of “The Counter,” a film tribute to the Greensboro 4. This film was produced by film maker Tracy “Twinkie” Byrd, and will serve as th ary 25 vers ls i ia n An Spec

an opening to a discussion of the importance of voting locally and nationally. • Dr. Kyle Kattelman will lecture on The Paradox of the Presidency, Friday, Feb. 28 at 10:30 a.m. Program sponsored by the Network for Responsible Public Policy. • Enjoy old and new favorites at Saturday Storytime, Feb. 29 at 11 a.m. This family storytime meets year-round. T ENA FLY 100 Riveredge Road tenaflylibrary.org (201) 568-8680 • MeetUp Mondays continue on Monday mornings in February at 10:30 a.m., for ages 1 to 3 years. Get out of the house with your toddler or preschooler for this informal gathering at the library. Your child will make new friends while playing with the libraryʼs collection of toys. They will read a few books selected by the children and then sing a few songs just for fun. Bring a friend! • Read to a Dog, for ages 5 and up, is a great way to foster fluency in language and reading, as well as develop confidence and independence, on Monday, Feb. 24 and Thursday, Feb. 27 at the library. Register for a 20-minute one-on-one session at 4:30, 4:50 or

D FERRAIOLI

5:10. The popular program often fills up a month or more in advance. Call early to reserve your childʼs spot. • The Tenafly Library Friends Meeting is Monday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. Whether helping sort donations of books, or organizing the Sunday afternoon concert

series, Friends volunteers help with tasks large and small. All members welcome to attend. For more, email tenaflylibraryfriends@gmail.com. • Toddler Tales Storytime, for kids 2 to 4, meets Tuesday, CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

r e t n i W

P R E S S

northern valley

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

FEBRUARY 2020

NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

real estate

Community Calendar AT THE LIBRARY

Feb. 25 at 11:30 a.m. Drop in for one class or attend them all. Your toddler will continue to gain literacy and social skills he began to develop in babytime. Come to enjoy an hour full of stories, songs, and creative projects or games! Younger (or older) siblings are welcome to tag along, but be aware that books and activities are chosen for the two to four year olds. • The 4th/5th grade book club meets Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m. Children should read the book before coming to the meeting. Parents are welcome to read with their children but do not attend the meeting. Snack provided. Craft activity after discussion. This monthʼs book: “Ms. Bixbyʼs Last Day,” by John David Anderson. • CollegeWise Highly Selective College Admissions is a seminar offering insight into the admissions process for the most highly selective colleges in the FROM PAGE 17

country, Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. This seminar discusses how schools like the Ivy Leagues, Stanford, Northwestern and the rest of the nationʼs most selective colleges make decisions from pools full of the most qualified applicants. It will help explain what those admitted students do to distinguish themselves from the rest of the applicant pool, and reveal some Collegewise strategies to improve a studentʼs chances of admission. • At Tech for Novices, for adults, learn everything you wanted to know about tech but were afraid to ask. This month, Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 11 a.m., learn a new skill so that youʼll become comfortable using your computer or mobile device: Kanopy, a streaming service for library patrons. Other upcoming topics: RB Digital, March 25; Rosetta Stone, May 27. • Ace your college, scholarship or job interview with Mock Interviews for grades nine and up. Practice new interview strategies, plan answers to difficult questions

and learn to relax during a stressful situation, Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 4 p.m. • Babytime Storytime, for newborns to age 2, meets Thursdays in February at 10:30 a.m. Registration is not required. Drop in for one class or attend them all. Your baby will make new friends while taking her first steps toward literacy and social competency. • At Let It Shine: The American Civil Rights Movement 19551968, experience a powerful production that introduces audiences to poignant events and notable names of the Civil Rights Movement, Saturday, Feb. 29 at 11 a.m. This acclaimed show focuses on the tumultuous years between 1955 and 1968 and shines a light on important milestones in our history, including: the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the SCLC, Brown v. Board of Education, Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and more. The production will be followed with questions and answers, if the time allows. Open to adults and kids (but best for kids in grades three and up).

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NORTHERN VALLEY

McSpirit & Beckett welcomes new agents

McSpirit & Beckett Real Estate is pleased to announce the addition of two realtor associates to its team. Mary Novoa grew up in Hudson County and is now a Dumont resident. With a career in human

County, New Jersey, and Arizona. She is passionate about interior design and credits her love of the rustic industrial decor to having been exposed to both East and West coast markets. From conducting initial research to negotiating a price to the final closing and moving stages, Susan will guide you through the process. A mother of two, Susan resides in Maywood. McSpirit & Beckett Real Estate has a staff of 22 and has two offices, Tenafly and Dumont. To learn more about the McSpirit Beckett team go to www.mcspiritbeckett.com.

Susan Riley

resources and an M.B.A. from Florida International University, she has been a trusted business partner in various roles throughout her career and enjoys providing the same level of service to her clients. “Mary is extremely knowledgeable of the Bergen County real estate market and she is fluent in Spanish,” McSpirit & Beckett said. Susan Riley has spent most of her life living in both Bergen Mary Novoa

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for women and girls in the U.S. and around the world, encouraging families to pursue healthier and more active lives, and standing with her husband as he led America through some of its most harrowing moments. Along the way, she raised two down-to-earth daughters under an unforgiving media glare.” Here is the schedule of Womenʼs Diversity Book Groupʼs dates and books for the rest of 2020. All meetings are at the Englewood Library at 6 p.m. unless otherwise specified: • March 24, “Know My Name” by Chantal Miller for Womenʼs History Month; • April 28, noted motivational speaker Dr. Yvonne S. Thornton on her books “Ditchdiggerʼs Daughters: A Black Familyʼs Astonishing Success Story” and “Something to Prove: A Daughterʼs Journey to Fulfill a Fatherʼs Legacy” at a private home in Englewood for the groupʼs annual local author dinner; • May 26, “In the Shadow of the Banyan” by Vaddey Ratner for Asian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month; • June 30, “On Earth Weʼre Briefly Gorgeous” by Ocean Vuong for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer Pride Month; • July 28, “One of Ours” by Willa Cather for the theme of classic or prize winner by a woman author; • Aug. 25, “Autumn” by Ali Smith on the theme of age issues; • Sept. 22, “Lost Children Archive” by Valeria Luiselli for Latina/o Heritage Month; • Oct. 27, “Rabbits for Food” by Binnie Kirshenbaum for National Disability Employment Awareness Month; • Nov. 17, “Shadow Tag” by Louise Erdrich for Native American Heritage Month;

CELEBRATE PURIM WITH TEMPLE EMETH

Temple Emeth Religious School invites children ages 4 to 7, with a parent, to “Purim Family Fun” on Sunday, March 8, from 9:45 to 11 a.m. “Join us and enjoy a morning of music, stories, dance, crafts and

delicious Purim treats!” say organizers. “Free admission but RSVP is required to (201) 833-8466.” The Carnival runs 10 to 11 a.m. Tickets available for purchase at the door. Temple Emeth is located at 1666 Windsor Road, Teaneck.

Give your business the attention it deserves: Advertise in Northern Valley Press Call 201.358.9500 • fax 201.664.2109 or e-mail us at northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net

Karin ‘Corinne’ Low results,” she says. In addition to holding a

New Jersey brokerʼs license, Low is a marketing specialist. She attributes her outstanding successes to her clients, saying, “My customers are my future. Their respect, loyalty, and trust in my knowledge of the real estate industry is what has enabled me to become one of the top producers in the field.” Low specializes in the listing and and sales of residential properties in northern Bergen County, representing sellers and buyers. You can reach Low by calling Re/Max Properties at (201) 825-6600 ext. 321 or (201) 8196737, or by writing CorinneLow@yahoo.com

Nicole Idler decided to get her New Jersey Real Estate License in 2004.

She quickly established herself as an advocate for her clients and community. In New Jersey alone she has closed in excess of $70 million in sales. Friedberg says, “Over the years she has become known as the Teaneck specialist though her impressive knowledge and sage advice have helped clients throughout Bergen County.” Idler excels in residential sales and rentals and commercial and business sales. If you are looking for a top agent with superb skills—a leader among her peers—call Nicole Idler. She can be reached at her office at (201) 894-1234 or on her mobile at (201) 906-9338.

Idler a Top Realtor For 8th Consecutive Year

NORTHERN VALLEY

Friedberg Properties salutes Nicole Idler on receiving the New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Sales Award, Bronze 2019. This is the eighth consecutive year she has been recognized with the bronze or silver level of this prestigious award. According to Marlyn Friedberg, “It is an outstanding achievement to win one year, but to win eight consecutive years says volumes about Nicoleʼs commitment to excellence, professionalism and her steadfast focus on her clients.” Idler received her New York broker license in 1986. Living and raising a family in Teaneck, she fell in love with the area and

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Former First Lady Michele Obamaʼs memoir, “Becoming,” will be the focus of an open-to-thepublic discussion Tuesday, Feb. 25, starting at 6 p.m. at Englewood Library, 31 Engle St., in honor of Black History Month. This event is in an event sponsored by Womenʼs Diversity Book Group, a joint venture of the library and Womenʼs Rights Information Center. “Becoming” was the number one most checked out book in the New York City Public Library system during 2019. According to goodreads.com, “Becoming,” copyright 2018, is a work of deep reflection and mesmerizing storytelling: “Michelle Obama invites readers into her world, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her— from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her time spent at the worldʼs most famous address. “With unerring honesty and lively wit, she describers her triumphs and her disappointments, both public and private, telling her full story as she has lived it—in her own words and on her own terms. Warm, wise and revelatory, Becoming is the deeply personal reckoning of a woman of soul and substance who has steadily defied expectations—and whose story inspires others to do the same.” About the author, goodreads.com says: “In a life filled with meaning and accomplishment, Michelle Obama has emerged as one of the most iconic and compelling women of our era. As First Lady of the United States of America—the first African American to serve in that role—she helped create a most welcoming and inclusive White House, while also establishing herself as a powerful advocate

Re/Max of New Jersey is pleased to announce that Karin “Corinne” Low has joined in to make this a banner year in real estate. Low is a broker-associate with Re/Max Properties in Saddle River and has more than 30 years experience in the real estate Industry. Always an extremely successful Realtor, Low holds a number of real estate designations and prides herself in continuous education classes. “The real estate market has changed dramatically within the last few years, and I feel that more knowledge is power. The power is to help my clients achieve the best possible

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The Bergen Center for Child Development of Haworth is looking for a Special Education (Multiple Teacher Disabilities/Behavior al Challenges) Full Time, 5 days per week / 35 hours. Immediate vacancy Hours are from 7:45 am - 2:45 pm. For the 2019-2020 School Year and beyond / ESY (Extended School Year) Benefits are Medical / Dental / Personal & Vacation Time, etc. Pay scale: Negotiable / Per Board of Trustees & Executive Director Required qualifications: NJ Special Education Standard Certification, Experience Preferred, Criminal Background Check – Clearance, Drug Screening Clearance Please e-mail Cover Letter, Resume & Certifications to: jsinclair@bccdschool.com.

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HELP WANTED Borough of Harrington Park seeks a Part Time Finance Clerk to begin i m m e d i a t e l y. Responsibilities include but not limited to processing requisitions, purchase orders, tax payments, delinquent notices, bills list, printing checks, running cash receipts reports, 1099’s, answer phones, filing, purchasing and various clerical duties as CFO directs. Knowledge of Edmunds software is preferred, and proficiency in excel and word required. 25 to 28 hours per week. E-mail resume with cover letter and references to Kunjesh Trivedi at cfocollector@harringtonparknj.g ov by March 1, 2020. Borough Harrington Park is an E.O.E. The Borough of Harrington Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all rules and regulations that pertain accordingly to the advertising and hiring of such employees.

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HELP WANTED PART TIME CROSSING GUARD. The Borough of Emerson, Bergen County, NJ seeks a P/T Crossing Guard. Experience preferred but will train. Abackground check is required. Approx. 10 hours/week. Apply at Emerson Police Department, at Borough Hall, 146 Linwood Ave., Emerson. EOE. HELP WANTED Wanted - Exp’d landscape foreman & laborer wanted for busy mulch crew, immediate hire, full-time, six days per week. Call 201394-2806.

Office help - Exp. person needed for busy garden center, duties include: customer service, ordering, dispatching, etc. Call (201) 394-2806.

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HELP WANTED FULL-TIME FACILITIES MAINTENANCE POSITION. Duties include cleaning, painting, minor repairs. Ideal candidate will be able to operate power tools incl. floor buffer, floor cleaner; climb ladders; lift up to 50 lbs. Skills in carpentry, mechanical, plumbing, electrical repair (with lic. or certification) or roof repair desirable. Hours: 7am to 3:30pm. Must pass a background check, have a valid driver’s license to drive borough vehicles. Apply at Westwood Borough Hall, 101 Avenue, Washington Westwood, NJ 07675 or write to Borough Admin. Ben Kezmarsky at bkezmarsky@ westwoodnj.gov.

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1-HR Response Time

ʻChoice and toleranceʼ “My bill is about allowing parents choice and tolerance for all views,” Auth told Northern Valley Press Feb. 14. Auth initially introduced legislation Feb. 4 to enable parents to opt-out, but said he revised the bill to provide up to 75 percent funding for a parent should they choose to remove their child from local schools and attend a private school. The funding provision was added to not cause a burden on low-income families desiring to move a child into a private school, he said. The bill notes parents will receive 75 percent of local education costs for the school year or portion remaining, Auth said. According to the State Department of Education, the law requiring LGBTQ-inclusive lessons does not call for separate LGBTQ courses, nor does it require a specific LGBTQ curriculum, but rather for the contributions of LGBTQ individuals and disabled individuals to be included across subjects. The law requires that districts “include instruction on the contributions of people with disabilities, as well as LGBT people, in an appropriate place in the middle school and high school curriculum. The DOE will provide resources and guidance, but it isnʼt creating a ʻcurriculum,ʼ” emailed Mike Yaple, a Department of Education spokesman. State Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Englewood), a sponsor of the LGBTQinclusive law, said an opt-out provision was not needed.

social studies teachers have spent time identifying the extent to which LGBTQ-related content is present in their current curriculum. The curriculum writers are filling gaps while looking for opportunities to deepen student understanding of their world,” emailed Mamman.

FROM PAGE 1

ʻLack of understandingʼ “Unfortunately, the intent of Assemblyman Authʼs legislation to permit parents to exempt their children from lessons that they consider to be ʻharmfulʼ is rooted in a lack of understanding about the benefits of inclusive curriculum,” said Vainieri Huttle in a statement. “The inclusive curriculum law will ensure that students of all abilities, gender expressions and sexual orientations not only feel welcome in the classroom but respected. Paying tribute to the careers and achievements of members of the disabled and LGBTQ communities is not harmful; it is fundamental to changing our culture around intolerance and bigotry,” said Huttle. Recent media accounts report pockets of parental opposition statewide to any public school teaching about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individualsʼ contributions. Some fear the lessons include promotion of LGBTQ lifestyles, and may be covert efforts to promote acceptance of such lifestyles that go against religious beliefs and personal values. Reached Feb 14, Auth said he

State Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle: “Paying tribute to the careers and achievements of members of the disabled and LGBTQ communities is not harmful; it is fundamental to changing our culture around intolerance and bigotry.”

was sure heʼd get feedback from legislators and the public on his bill, which still had yet to be assigned to a committee or posted for a vote.

ʻJust in case...ʼ “This is just in case somebody runs into a problem,” Auth told Northern Valley Press. He said his concern about providing parents an option to remove students from LGBTQinclusive lessons derived from discussions with parents who believed schools were not effectively teaching about the Federalist papers, U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, the first 10 amendments to the Constitution. That led to discussions about the new LGBTQ law, he said. “Not one size fits all,” said Auth. He said given how long legislation takes from bill introduction to law, it was better to introduce “opt-out” legislation now to address parental concerns than wait until a groundswell of opposition develops. The bill currently has no sponsors, but Auth said he is not concerned. While the bill mandates 75 percent of annual per-student funding should a parent wish to remove his child from a school due to its LGBTQ lessons, it also offers an option to be excused from an objectionable class lesson with no academic penalties.

ʻShall be excusedʼ “The student shall be excused from the objectionable portion of the curriculum and no penalties as to credit or graduation shall result therefrom. An objection to a learning material or activity on the basis that it is harmful includes, but is not limited to, an objection that the material or activity questions, violates, or conflicts with the parent or guardianʼs belief or practice regarding sex, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, conscience, ethics, morality, or religion,” states the bill. Auth said he hopes that the

State Assemblyman Robert Auth: “This [opt-out bill] is just in case somebody runs into a problem… Not one size fits all… I hope everything works out fine and there’s no need for this.”

billʼs provisions, especially removal of a student from a school district, does not need to be used. He said that LGBTQ-inclusive lessons—which are controlled by local school boards— can likely be adapted to conform to local concerns and incorporate LGBTQ contributions. He said his opt-out bill was put forth for “aggrieved parents to say hereʼs an option for you… “I hope everything works out fine and thereʼs no need for this,” he added.

Reduces bullying, harassment Advocates for LGBTQinclusive lessons, including Garden State Equality, say teaching about contributions of LGBTQ individuals helps to reduce bullying and harassment of LGBTQ students, and promotes understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ youth. Months after the lawʼs approval in 2019, scattered opposition developed to LGBTQ-inclusive lessons, with a Hackensack school trustee and criticizing the law Barnegatʼs mayor calling the law “an affront to Almighty God.” Both officials were subsequently the subject of public protests against their anti-LGBTQ views. An advocate for the opt-out bill is Shawn Hyland, advocacy director for Family Policy Alliance of New Jersey, who told Northern Valley Press his organization has heard from members of diverse religions, including Catholics, Muslims, Presbyterians, Baptists, Coptics, and Pentecostals. Hyland said heʼs received “thousands and thousands of signatures” on his online petition to request an “opt-out” provision to LGBTQ-inclusive lessons, many from religious households but also from many who feel talk about sexuality should be reserved for home discussion only. Hyland said that the LGBTQinclusive lessons are “another unfunded mandate” from Trenton.

ʻNo funding, no guidelinesʼ “Many [school districts] donʼt know what to do. The state has provided no funding, no guidelines, and Garden State Equality has a free curriculum. So most school districts will probably use that due to the state mandate and little time,” said Hyland. So far, Hyland said, when parents question school officials about the law, most say itʼs a state mandate and to contact their state legislators. “Everybodyʼs pointing fingers at someone else because nobodyʼs offering guidance on what to do,” he added. He said Family Alliance representatives meet with groups statewide to discuss the ramifications of the LGBTQ-inclusive law and options such as “opt-out” legislation and how to work with school districts to accommodate their concerns about the law. ʻDiversity of the studentsʼ “As the sponsor of the inclusive curriculum law, I believe that its purpose was to ensure that the curriculum represents the diversity of the students in the classroom. This means that our children must be provided with ageappropriate lessons on the contributions and experiences of diverse voices throughout history—a diversity of races, religions, ethnicities, abilities, sexual orientations and gender expressions,” said Vainieri Huttle. “Studies show that schools with inclusive curriculum have significantly less bullying around sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. This law will take a significant step forward in improving school climate for everyone,” added Vainieri Huttle. Tenaflyʼs assistant director of curriculum and instruction, Dr. Evelyn Mamman, revealed how the high-performing boroughʼs schools are addressing the LGBTQ-inclusive law. ʻDeepen...understandingʼ “Our middle and high school

ʻUmbrella of diversityʼ “Under the broad umbrella of diversity, the interdistrict team is creating lessons and resources designed to thoughtfully incorporate differences of culture and circumstance including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ability/disability, socioeconomic status and more. “The curriculum will, in particular, highlight the accomplishments of LGBTQ+ individuals and those with disabilities,” noted Mamman. Mamman said Tenafly would not “pilot” any lesson plans before September. In the Pascack Valley Regional High School District, a committee is developing a curriculum to include the contributions of LGBTQ individuals and people with disabilities.

ʻCurrently workingʼ “Our district is currently working on this curriculum as part of our regular curriculum evaluation cycle. A committee of teachers and supervisors is doing the work so we are ready for Fall 2020 implementation. Further, our district participated in a larger county-wide committee through the (county) Office of the New Jersey Department of Education where we worked with teachers and administrators from throughout the county to create drafts of lessons and ways to meet the mandate of the new law,” emailed Paul Zeller,” Pascack Valley district director of technology and communication. Zeller said the district school board will approve the curriculum in June “and the revisions will be shared with the public after approval.” Zeller noted the law “requires boards of education to include instruction, and adopt instructional materials, that accurately portray political, economic, and social contributions of persons with disabilities and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people.”

ʻRising fearʼ of ʻthe otherʼ “Here is an example of a learning target: Consider how the events prior to, during, and after the Second World War advanced the nuclear arms race and contributed to a rising fear of ʻthe otherʼ in Europe and the United States, resulting in the persecution of the disabled, mentally ill, blacks, homosexuals, immigrants, and other minority groups,” wrote Zeller, when asked for an example of a lesson that may be proposed.

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 • NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH

Auth: Lawmaker calls for opt-out of inclusive lessons

FEBRUARY 24, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS SOUTH