No. No.22Vol. Vol.88
Cedar Grove Elks Deliver Camp in a Bag
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he Cedar Grove Elks Lodge No. 2237’s “special helper” Gail Corbosiero, (wife of PDD Mike) is shown here with a former student, Gio Rivera who attended NJ Elks Camp Moore for many years. She delivered his “camp in a bag supplies” from NJ Elks Camp Moore Staff. Over 700 bags were assembled and sent to all the SCC Chairmen in New Jersey for distribution. Since Camp Moore was canceled this year due to COVID 19, supplies were sent to all the campers so they could use them online for virtual camping, which was scheduled and taught by camp staffers.
August August2020 2020
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WP Library Files Grant Application After Years of Planning
he Alfred Baumann Library has submitted its application for a New Jersey Construction Bond Grant. Should the Library be a recipient of the grant funds, it will receive a 1:1 dollar match on the construction cost of the project. The Library has not had any major renovations or expansions in the 40 years it has been at its current location and is in dire need of updates, rehabilitation, barrier free improvements, and more space. The Library administration, Board of Directors and Friends of the Library (FAB) have been working for the past few years to raise funds through various efforts. Substantial donations have been given by the Friends of the Library, the Woodland Park Business Association, the WP American Legion Post #238 Women’s Auxiliary, WP Soccer Association, and numerous residents. Library Director Linda Hoffman expressed to the Mayor and Council at the March 4th Council meeting that the expansion, when
Alfred Baumann Library Director Linda Hoffman, supported by Library administration, the Board of Directors and members of the Friends of the Library spoke at the March 4 Council meeting asking for its support in the Library’s application for a New Jersey Construction Bond Grant.
done, will double the current space and provide everything that is needed to bring the Library into the 21st Century. “This will bring our residents the Library that they deserve,” she said. The demand for community space for programs and meetings is high at the Library, and without dedicated space for these purposes, it is not able to effectively meet the community’s needs with its current building. The building will also serve as a secondary disaster relief center where residents can use computers, charge their cell phones, or
bring their family in to view a movie in a more familial setting. A generator is included in the design. The Library expansion plan includes a community room that can be divided, conference room, quiet area, computer lab, STEM area, a teen room, expanded children’s room, a flex/lounge space where patrons can grab a cup of coffee meet with friends or discuss ideas and books. Additionally, there is an outdoor amphitheater in the plan. Libraries are a valuable resource in the community, especially during econom-
ically challenging times. The Library provides public computers and high speed internet access that help to bridge the digital divide. Additionally, trained professionals provide training for job skills and resources for small businesses. On Election Day 2017, voters approved the New Jersey Library Construction Bond Act Public Question #1, which will allow the state to issue $125 million in bonds. Under this bill, for any approved project financed by bond proceeds, the grant award will provide a 1:1 dollar match on construction projects.
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TOTOWA $399,900 4 BEDROOM CAPE Spacious & move in - ready cape with front dormer located in desirable residential neighborhood. LR, KIE w/door in pergola covered deck. Sunroom, 2 BR’s. C/T bath on 1st floor. 2nd level offers 2 bedrooms & storage, enclosed rear porch. Generously sized rooms throughout. Hardwood floors. Finished basement offers rec. room, office, laundry & storage. Beautiful private backyard with patio & storage shed. Driveway parking for 4 cars. Roof approx. 5 yrs old, new HW heater.
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August 2020 • Page 3
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Welcome to Passaic Valley Life and Cedar Grove Life! We hope you enjoy your complimentary DIGITAL version of Passaic Valley Life and Cedar Grove Life. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we are unable to produce and distribute the print version of the papers so we are emailing over 19,000 digital copies to the homes and businesses throughout Little Falls, Totowa, Woodland Park and Cedar Grove. Stay safe and healthy!
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Page 6 • August 2020
August 2020 • Page 7
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Page 8 • August 2020
Class of 2020’s Top Ten Students Embark on the Next Phase of Their Academic Careers
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Devyn DiPasquale’21 ach year, PV recognizes the top ten students of the graduating class who are ranked based on their cumulative GPAs. Each of the top ten this year is destined for great colleges and universities where they will continue their stellar academic careers. These students have worked tirelessly on their school work, are well-rounded, and truly show what Hornet Pride is all about. Valedictorian Brian Katat is planning to study chemical engineering in hopes that one day he can work with energy to improve and sustain the environment. He will be attending Stevens Institute of Technology in the fall. “If you want to be successful, you have to figure out what matters most to you, balance everything out, and get what you need to do done,” advises Katat. “Use your goals and anticipation to spur you forward and you will never fail.” Salutatorian Lexie DeLuca will be attending Cornell University and plans to study engineering. While at Cornell, Lexie will also continue to pursue her passion for dance. “Hornet Pride is the epitome of spirit and unity at Passaic Valley. Hornet Pride is what rejuvenates my soul and keeps me going when completing hours of homework and staying up until the morning,” explains DeLuca. “Passaic Valley is home to an immense amount of spirit and when all of the ambitious stu-
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dents come together, we are unbreakable.” Third in the class is Brooke Berrigan who is continuing her academic career at Montclair State University and plans to study secondary education. She says the one thing she’s looking forward to most in college is “joining new clubs and meeting new people.” Number four is Jerry Sevillano, who will be attending Harvard University to study computer science. “One thing I’ll always remember about PV is the friendships I’ve made in school with the community,” explains Sevillano. Fifth in the Class of 2020 is Kayla Leonard, a former Valley Echo reporter. Kayla will be attending Colby College to study business management or managerial economics and is hoping to incorporate international affairs into her studies. “Many of my best memories at PV definitely come from cheerleading and Girls’ Show seasons, where I’ve made lifelong friends and had unforgettable experiences,” says Kayla. “Whether it was a Friday night football game or a memorable practice with my teammates, those memories will always have a place in my heart.”
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Class of 2020’s Top Ten Students... The sixth ranked student is Samiha Allan, who will be beginning the six-year pharmacy program at Rutgers New Brunswick in the fall. One of her goals is to earn a Master of Business Administration that would allow her to manage or even start her own pharmacy. “I will never forget the unity among the Passaic Valley community,” says Allan. “While students come from three different towns with various backgrounds, we collectively unite under the banner of Hornet pride, which gives the school such a welcoming and family-like atmosphere.” Seventh in the class is Gabriel Jurkic. Gabriel will also be attending Rutgers University in the fall and is planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree in finance. “In college, I look forward to meeting some very great people,” says Jurkic. “I can only imagine with the diversity at Rutgers that I will get to know the various cultures behind the faces of those that I will befriend on campus.” The eighth spot is occupied by Leandra Pesantes who is continuing her studies at The College of New Jersey and plans to study chemistry. “Hornet Pride to me means joining clubs and sports to be part of a bigger community” says Pesantes. “It means watching the white or green flag soar at Girls’ Show. It means to walk around
with PV attire proudly.” Ludovico Povolo is number nine and will be attending Montclair State University and plans to study political science and economics. “Some of my best memories at PV are playing on the boys volleyball team, going to Girls’ Show, attending football games in the fall, going to class with my friends, and making great relationships and connections with classmates and teachers,” says Povolo. Finally, the tenth ranked student in the Class of 2020 is Gabriella LaRosa, who will be attending Fairleigh Dickinson University to study mental health psychology. “My advice to younger students would be to definitely just put in the work,” says LaRosa. “Study and you will be rewarded. Don’t be afraid to utilize your teachers and ask them for help, it will only benefit you down the line. And lastly, remember to not obsess over your grades. There are more important things in life and school is really about establishing good work habits, learning to interact with different types of people, and completing tasks even when you may not want to do them.” These students have worked so hard and created great relationships with PV students and staff. One of the most important relationships they have in the school is with their guidance counselors, who have helped them along the way to reach this achievement. “It
Samiha Allan
Leandra Pesantes
has been my pleasure to work with these students. I’ve enjoyed watching them grow up these last few years. They have made the most of their high school careers and I’m honored to have been a small part of their successes at PV,” says Guidance Counselor Ms. Jennifer Shue. “These students show Hornet Pride in so many ways both academically and socially. Many of them are involved in a myriad of extracurricular activities and also volunteer or work. I always tell my students to be “good PV citizens” and these students are!” The Class of 2020 Top Ten are incredibly driven. “Once students see and understand that the higher their GPA, the more opportu-
Ludovico Povolo
nity there is for them in senior year, the rest is up to them. It then becomes the inherent characteristics of all champions: a strong will, determination and work ethic,” explains Guidance Counselor Mr. William Pantale. “I am so proud and happy for my students who are recognized as finishing in the top ten of the Class of 2020, for them it is a realization of goals achieved that they set for themselves four years ago! An amazing accomplishment! I am proud of all my senior students, each one of them has planned for June 19th and when they receive their diploma they will be ready to move onto the next phase of their lives.”
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WP Council Proposes Assigning Mayor with Administrative Responsibilities
T
he Borough Council on July 8 proposed assigning Mayor Keith Kazmark with the administrative responsibilities in the absence of a full-time Borough Administrator. Kazmark would assume the role of Kevin Galland, who is retiring on July 31.Kazmark is currently Township Administrator for Parsippany-Troy Hills in Morris County, a position he has held for nearly two years. Prior to this, he served 12 years as the Municipal Clerk/Business Administrator in Elmwood Park. “It is beyond humbling to have been approached about this concept,” Kazmark said. “This is not something I was looking for. I was not looking to change jobs.” During interviews for Galland’s position, Council Present Tracy Kallert and Councilman Vincent DeCesare approached Kazmark about the concept of serving as both Mayor and Administrator. They expressed a desire to have someone fill the role who was familiar with the town and ready to hit the ground running. “My heart and soul has been dedicated to Woodland Park for the past 9 years as Mayor and during previous 9 years on the Council,” Kazmark said. “This opportunity to also serve as the Business Administrator during this unique time, in addition to my role as Mayor, is an amazing professional
opportunity and one I promise to live up to as we guide our town through this public health crisis and into the future.” The Council introduced an ordinance at the meeting that would amend Borough code to allow the Mayor to serve carry out the administrative functions. It will be up for public comment and second reading at the July 22 Council meeting at 7 p.m. Galland also serves as Municipal Clerk. The Council voted at the meeting to hire Sandra Olivola to assume the position of Clerk. She comes to Woodland Park from Fair Lawn, where she has been Deputy Municipal Clerk for the past three years. Prior to that, she served as Deputy Municipal Clerk in Woodland Park for two years. She joins the Borough on Aug. 3. “We look forward to having Sandie back,” Mayor Kazmark said. Galland leaves Woodland Park after 15 years of service. He came to the Borough after serving as Director of Purchasing in both Bergen and Essex Counties. He also served as the Acting County Administrator in Essex County. “Kevin really helped guide this municipality,” Kazmark said, noting the wealth of experience he brought. “Those who worked with him appreciated his candor and bluntness.”
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Page 12 • August 2020
Art Department Holds First Virtual Art Show
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By Gabriella Gutierrez assaic Valley›s Art Department held its first virtual Art Show on June 10th, showcasing students’ work and accomplishments throughout the year. Due to health-related school closures, students displayed their artwork through presentations posted on the Passaic Valley YouTube and Vimeo pages. The video contained a variety of talent ranging from paintings, photography, drawings, graphic designs, and sculptures. Every year, the Art Show begins with selecting a poster to advertise for the show and embody a theme for the year. Ms. Carolyn Ingraham’s Portfolio students design sample posters and one is selected from the work produced. This year, Junior Dante Blucher’s design was chosen as the promotional image. Art Show is typically one of the premier in-school events at the end of the year. However, in response social distancing, the Art Department had to make considerable adjustments. “Like art museums around the world, we are going digital,” said Photography Teacher Ms. Melanie Vasa. “While museums have the luxury of just photographing what is already on the gallery walls, we had to recreate that feeling.” Background information during the digital presentation provides viewers with a connection to each piece since they do not have the opportunity to see it in person. “There will be more informative labeling and the addition of images of the students working on their projects throughout the year,” continued Ms. Vasa. Art teachers operated collectively to gather the stu-
dents’ work and solve the issue of not being in school to showcase it. “The art teachers came together, worked together, and problem-solved a new solution to having our Art Show this year,” said 3D Design Teacher Ms. Corine Czepiel. “The efforts made by each of the individual teachers go above and beyond each year as we all try to highlight the talents of our students.” Students and staff had been preparing for Art Show 2020 since as early as November, unaware of how different this year’s show would be. However, the new format did not take away from the rewarding experience of watching young artists grow as creators. “Being able to witness and be a part of the development of our student’s artwork is truly inspiring!” said National Art Honor Society Advisor Ms. Ingraham. “To be able to see our kids come up with an idea, develop it, and execute it to completion is one of the greatest joys in life.” Each year, Art Show displays innovative collections of pieces. Art Show 2020 featured traditional landscapes with abstract paintings from Ms. Jennifer Chelel’s Painting and Photographic Sources class. Graphic and Web Design teacher, Ms. Lori Demsey was excited to present her students’ new magazine projects. “They look like they belong on a newsstand!” she said. All of the Passaic Valley art teachers and students are thankful to be given this opportunity to continue Art Show’s incredible legacy in the face of modern challenges. What follows are messages of appreciation for all the diligence and dedication throughout the 2019-2020 school year. Portfolio Honors, Drawing Communications, Cartooning,
Art Explorations, and National Art Honor Society Advisor, Ms. Carolyn Ingraham: continued on page 14
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Page 14 • August 2020
First Virtual Art Show... continued from page 12 “I would like all of our kids to know that we’re excited to showcase their talents in a new way. Of course, I am sad that we won’t be in the Farrell Gym to celebrate together but that does not diminish their work and dedication throughout the school year.” Photography Teacher, Ms. Melanie Vasa: “I hope the PV community appreciates the hard work we and the students have put into making sure this show still happens. Dr. Cardillo never thought of canceling and that support is crucial in these times.” Graphic and Website Design Teacher, Ms. Lori Demsey: “Keep creating and never stop learning computer techniques. Digital arts are changing every second, you need to stay sharp and update your skills constantly. But most importantly: art is the best therapy for the soul and you need art more now than ever.”
3D Design and Advanced 3D Design Honors Teacher, Ms. Corine Czepiel: “To my seniors: Stay strong and keep your heads up high! I expect big things from ALL of you! Everything happens for a reason and although this may be a difficult year, just know this too shall pass! We need to experience the bad to remember and embrace the good. We can’t enjoy the good without experiencing the bad. Always remember there is light at the end of the tunnel and I hope we can all look back on this someday and remember just that! I truly miss you all!” Art Explorations and Painting and Photographic Sources Teacher, Ms. Jennifer Chelel: “When you summarize the work from the 2019-2020 school year, we see such creative endeavors. Work may look a little different, more expressive, and a reflection of the students’ current conditions. Hopefully art was used as a way to cope and heal.”
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August is “Children’s Eye Health & Safety” AWARENESS MONTH: ECC-NJ Pearls & Tips Dr. Swati J. Parekh says, “Kids need to take a break from prolonged screen exposure!”
A
Is Too Much Screen Time Harming Children’s Vision?
s children spend more time tethered to screens, there is an increasing concern about potential harm to their visual development. Ophthalmologists – physicians who specialize in medical and surgical eye care – are seeing a marked increase in children with dry eye and eye strain from too much screen time. But does digital eye strain cause lasting damage? Should your child use reading glasses or computer glasses? As you send your kids back to school this month for more time with screens and books, *EyeCare Consultants of NJ (ECC-NJ, Woodland Park, NJ, www.eyecareconsultantsnj. com, 973-785-2050) joins the *American Academy of Ophthalmology to arm parents with the facts, so they can make informed choices about their children’s eye health.
It’s a fact that there is a world-wide epidemic of myopia, also known as nearsightedness. Since 1971, the incidence of nearsightedness in the US nearly doubled, to 42 percent. In Asia, up to 90 percent of teenagers and adults are nearsighted. Clearly, something is going on. But scientists can’t agree on exactly what. A new study appearing in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, offers further evidence that at least part of the worldwide increase in nearsightedness has to do with near work activities; not just screens but also traditional books. And, that spending time outdoors—especially in early childhood—can slow the progression of nearsightedness. It remains unclear whether the rise in nearsightedness is due to focusing on phones all the time,
or to light interacting with our circadian rhythms to influence eye growth, or none of the above. While scientists look for a definitive answer, there is no doubt that most computer users experience digital eye strain. Kids are no different from adults when it comes to digital eye strain. They can experience dry eye, eye strain, headaches, and blurry vision, too. While symptoms are typically temporary, they may be frequent and persistent. But this doesn’t mean they need a prescription for computer glasses or that they have developed an eye condition of middle-age that requires reading glasses, as some suggest. It also doesn’t mean that blue light coming from computer screens is damaging their eyes. It means they need to take more frequent breaks. This is because we don’t blink as
often while using computers and other digital devices. Extended reading, writing or other intensive near work can also cause eye strain. Here are 10 tips to help protect your child’s eyes from computer eyestrain: • Set a kitchen timer or a smart device timer to remind them. • Alternate reading an e-book with a real book and encourage kids to look up and out the window every two chapters. • After completing a level in a video game, look out the window for 20 seconds. • Pre-mark books with a paperclip every few chapters to remind your child to look up. On an e-book, use the “bookmark” function for the same effect. • Avoid using a computer outside or in brightly lit areas, as the glare on the screen can create strain. • Adjust the brightness and
contrast of your computer screen so that it feels comfortable to you. • Use good posture when using a computer and when reading. • Encourage your child to hold digital media farther away, 18 to 24 inches is ideal. • Create a distraction that causes your child to look up every now and then. Remind them to blink when watching a screen. Swati J. Parekh, MD, FAAO, Chairwoman of St. Joseph’s Health Department of Ophthalmology, comments that, “We tell all of our patients, especially children in school, to use the 20-2020-20 rule! This rule states that every 20 minutes, you should turn your head away from the screen and look 20 feet away, blink 20 times, and for 20 seconds. This is a great way to minimize eye strain and also helps to lu-
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Page 16 • August 2020
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August 2020 • Page 17
WP Turf Field Nears Completion
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARCOS NORIEGA JR.
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he turf field project is nearly complete at Zaccaria Park. This was the third phase of the park improvement project which began in 2017 and was funded through $850,000 received in Passaic County Open Space Trust Fund grant monies. It will also be the first turf field in the Passaic
Valley region, although both Little Falls and Totowa have started similar projects. «We are looking forward to some great soccer and lacrosse being played up here and our vision for our largest municipal park becoming a reality,» Mayor Keith Kazmark said.
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Page 18 • August 2020
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WP Breaks Ground on Next Streetscape Section
orough and state officials recently broke ground on the McBride Avenue Streetscape Project Phases 5 & 6. These phases will connect Newby Avenue (near School #1) to Dowling Parkway (at the clock tower). The New Jersey Department of Transportation has awarded the Borough two grants for these work efforts in the amount of $575,000 for Phase 5 and $351,000 for Phase 6. Woodland Park officials would like to send their appreciation to Gov. Murphy, State Senator Kristin Corrado and Assemblymen Christopher DePhillips and Kevin J. Rooney for their continuous support in securing these grants. The streetscape project began in March 2017 at Glover Avenue and McBride Avenue and when complete, improvements will have been made all along the en-
tire stretch of road in town. Work has been completely funded through a series of State and County grants.
Phase 4 is also underway, from Ray Avenue on the Little Falls border along the thoroughfare to past the
Peckman River bridge. Some businesses along the stretch are contributing to their portion of the streetscape, in-
cluding the Woodland Park Range and the redeveloper of Kearfott, which Mayor Keith Kazmark said has
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WP Library Readies to Reopen Its Doors he Alfred Baumann Public Library will open its building soon.
The Library staff has been preparing the past few months to create a safe environment for its patrons. Safety glass has been installed around the circulation desk, new computer tables arrived this week will allow for socially distanced computer access, and a new self-checkout will be installed for contactless checkouts. Also installed in the building were automatic fixtures in the bathrooms for contactless flushes and hand-washing. The building has been thoroughly cleaned by professionals and the HVAC system will be undergoing routine maintenance with santization. “Our patrons are our first priority and we will always put their safety first,” said Linda Hoffman, Library Director. Over the last months the library employees have worked hard to bring outstanding virtual programming and digital resources to patrons. During the last few weeks, they launched a hugely successful “curbside pick-
up” service. During the first couple weeks of service everyone received a flyer explaining the service and a free mask, from a generous donor. As the Library moves toward opening its building to the public, you will see other changes when you enter such as a fresh coat of paint on the columns, decals on the floor to properly social distance people, and direct one way traffic in certain areas. Most importantly, you will find a staff ready to greet and serve the residents. The Library staff is serving patrons through curbside pick-up of materials, printing through the PrinterOn App, and notary services can be done by appointment. Currently, the library is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. They are offering contactless pick-up, notary services, reference, digital services, printing services, virtual programming and will be offering outdoor programs. Visit www.abwplibrary. org for updates on all services or call 973-345-8120.
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Page 20 • August 2020
Bet on This: Mount Airy Resort Casino is the Getaway You Need
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By Jillian Risberg hey couldn’t be happier to be back doing what they do best -- provide award-winning service to their valued guests. Mount Airy Casino Resort reopened June 22 after suspending operations for 14-weeks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and it feels good to be home. For more than 50 years, Airy has offered the quintessential Poconos experience, sitting on the site of what was once ‘beautiful Mount Airy Lodge,’ a premier destination for honeymooners that began in the 1950s. “Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Mount Airy Casino Resort guests
can enjoy more than 10 nearby hiking trails to explore the vast outdoors,” says Glenn Cademartori, vice president of marketing. “The beautiful 2,400 square miles of the Poconos landscape offers visitors scenic views of waterfalls, wetlands, forests, and even the chance to catch a glimpse of some wildlife.” According to Cademartori, over the last few months the Mount Airy team diligently cleansed and sanitized the entire property with EPA approved cleaning and sanitizing agents and followed CDC guidance for workplace cleanliness and safety. “To maintain these standards, key team members have attended cleanliness, sanitation and safety training classes conducted by Ecolab, a global leader in wa-
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ter, food safety and public health technologies,” says the Marketing VP. “The safety and well-being of our guests remains our top priority.” Sondra Leskowyak really enjoyed her recent two-night stay. “We saw extra staff sanitizing slots,” says Leskowyak, of Mechanicsville, Virginia. “Everyone had masks on. Big shout out to the pool staff and our server Hannah who gave us amazing service.” Guests will encounter the Resort’s recent $40 million expansion, including 100 new guest rooms and nine new executive suites. “Now the resort holds nearly 300 upscale guest rooms and suites that provide a
warm ambiance and naturally accentuate the serenity of the Pocono Mountain setting,” Cademartori says. “In 2019, Mount Airy Casino Resort was awarded AAA’s ‘Best of Housekeeping’ award. It’s also a premiere gaming getaway, with over 1,800 slot machines, 80 table games and recently opened sports-book. “Casino wasn’t packed at all and it was kept super clean. Every other seat was removed and every other machine turned off,” says Lisa Zaccagnino, of Dunmore, PA. “Hand sanitizer stations were all over and wipes were available at ticket redemption machines. We ate at Guy Fieri’s and can’t say enough about the staff. They kept
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Page 22 • August 2020
the place spotless!” As Pennsylvania’s first AAA Four Diamond-rate casino, the 900-acre resort is complemented by a 20,000-square-foot convention center and ballroom that serve as a stateof-the-art venue for private and corporate events, weddings and entertainment. The Four Diamond designation is a major recognition. “Mount Airy Casino Resort has cultivated an unwavering commitment to our guests by providing the highest quality hotel accommodations and resort amenities,” Cademartori says. “Being named a 10-time AAA Four Diamond award winner is a bold reflection of our commitment of raising the bar of our resort’s customer-focused luxury brand year after year.” Guests can discover a variety of signature restaurants and so much more: Guy Fieri’s Mt. Pocono Kitchen, award-winning Bistecca by Il Mulino, Lucky 8 Noodle and Sushi Bar, The Buffet, Starbucks and Pizzeria Montagna. “This all-encompassing, full service resort destination for outdoor and gaming enthusiasts alike features a Sports Illustrated-recognized lakefront 18-hole golf course; 16,000-square foot spa, salon and exercise facility; luxury indoor/outdoor pool and entertainment complex — aptly called Wet, and a covered outdoor pavilion that hosts summer concert series,” says the Marketing VP. And the 51,000 square-foot Get Wet Ultra Pool is a generously heated four-season pool featuring an underwater passageway to allow guests to swim continuously between adjoining indoor and outdoor spaces. Never been to Mount Airy? According to Cademartori, you’re in for a treat. “Guests can expect award-winning service and amenities in every corner of the property. Available to both hotel guests and outside visitors, the spa includes 10 treatment rooms, separate men’s and women’s lockers, a steam room, sauna, tranquil quiet room, and more,” says the Marketing VP. “Mount Airy’s restaurants have been awarded by OpenTable diners as some of the best in the Pocono area in several categories, including Best Ambiance, Best Service, Most Romantic and Best Special Occasion.” The origins of Airy date back to October 2007, when Louis DeNaples bought the for-
mer Mount Airy Lodge site and opened Mount Airy Casino Resort as a premier gaming and year-round resort destination in Northeast Pennsylvania. A family owned business, DeNaples turned the resort over to his daughter, Lisa DeNaples, in 2009. Mount Airy is less than 90 minutes from Philadelphia, New York City and northern New Jersey — and within a short driving distance of many Pocono attractions, including The Crossings Outlets, hiking trails, water parks, zip lining, ATV tours and much more. “As the Poconos’ premier full-service vacation destination, Mount Airy Casino Resort is an extraordinary experience for all guests no matter the season,” Cademartori says. “With amenities ranging from gaming, pool and spa, to signature restaurants and array of outdoor recreational activities like skiing, golfing, boating and swimming, Mount Airy is the perfect getaway.”
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August 2020 • Page 23
Long Valley Author Pens Fangirl Memoir
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By Steve Sears or the soon-to-be 29-year-old Megan Roche, writing her own book and seeing it published wasn’t a specific goal she wanted to attain by age 30. But then, COVID-19 and being quarantined happened. “Being at home, I really didn’t want to sit around and do nothing; I wanted to channel my energy into something that was different,” says the 28 year old. What she now finds “crazy” is, looking back at the original outline, it was at the most 9 chapters. However, once she took off on the project, putting fingertips to computer keyboard, the number of chapters ballooned to 19. “That was pretty cool.” What started out as a suggested, fun project by a friend became the 122-page Forever Her Girl: The Stories & Experiences of a Major Fangirl. Roche’s first full book details her discovery of, first meeting with, and subsequent close friendship with pop star singer and dancer, Paula Abdul. Roche, in her 13 years of being an Abdul fangirl, has attended 30 of the performer’s concerts, has taken part in podcasts with Abdul, written articles about her – an iPain Magazine cover feature garnered Roche a 2019 an International Pain Foundation Hero of Hope Award - and much more. The before mentioned speaks to the author’s eager, persevering persona, the aggressive project itself grasped by a writer who enjoys creativity and being in that mindset – in addition to avoiding the recent negativity. Roche says, “This book project was a way to escape all the negativity that was going on, all the craziness, all the news ‘of this’ and ‘of that.’” It was a way to shut everything off and focus on and write about a topic she loves and is passionate about. “I needed that escape, and I think a lot of people need that creative escape right now.” It also enabled her to keep her writing skills sharp in what for others was down time. “For me, especially during the quarantine, I didn’t want to get lazy and out of the
groove of writing. I find that when I do something for a certain amount of time, and then (after a long break) I have to go back into it, it’s very, very hard.” The familiar topic, as well, was a strong seed to sow. “I was excited I got to write about a subject that is so important to me, and honestly, the feedback that I’ve gotten from people who have gotten copies of the book has been overwhelmingly positive. I’ve actually gotten messages from people I went to high school who are apologizing to me. I’m like, ‘Why are you apologizing?’ And they were apologizing for poking fun, never understanding it, and for passing judgement. I think a lot of good came out of it. People can kind of take a step back and understand me as a person. And I’m sure,” she adds with a laugh, “that the fact we’re all 10 years older now is important.” 15-year-old Megan Roche met Abdul for the first time on Monday, March 19, 2007. She and her dad endured a cold, snowy day, driving to New York City hoping to glimpse the star. Begging her dad by saying, “Dad please, I’ll do anything to go. Anything,” the words elbowed the elder Roche to take the day off, but he made no promises that the meeting would actually take place. Roche eventually received a hug from her hero, cried when Abdul penned an autograph on her Cardio Dance DVD, and digital photos were taken. “I knew after about two years of following her career that I wanted to get the opportunity to meet her, and I look back now, and I honestly thought that that one day in March was probably going to be the only time I had a shot, and the only
time anybody was willing to take me – I mean, I was 15, I couldn’t drive, and my parents were like, ‘Well, you’re not going into Manhattan by yourself. You’re crazy, you’re 15-years-old’ – so it was special.” Beyond her singing career, Abdul means more to Roche, much more. “One thing for me especially, which I touch on in the book,
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Page 24 • August 2020
is for boys and girls, as a young teen, you’re very impressionable,” she says. “The only thing that matters at that age is fitting in and being accepted. One thing I’ve always respected about her and our relationship and the friendship that we have is that she’s never once made me feel like an outsider, she’s always embraced me and my antics, she’s never turned her back on me at any point. You know, you hear a lot of horror stories about when people meet their childhood idol. ‘Oh my God, they were so not what I wanted.’ I’ve always felt like Paula’s cared about me, and she has proven it through the years, time and time again.” Roche also points out that Abdul has proven that you can keep coming back from adversity. Just one or any number of failures doesn’t signal career’s end. “I think that’s so important, especially at the age that I found her, to understand that it’s okay to make mistakes, it’s okay to reinvent yourself, and you don’t have to conform to societal norms, you don’t have to do what everyone else is doing. You can be different, and I’ve always appreciated the fact that she was open and honest about that.” For Roche, who previously contributed to Denville’s Heroes, an offering of reflections from the area’s veterans of war, working on a book project was not unchartered territory. However, compared to that initial effort, this was growth by “leaps and bounds.” “I do feel that way,” agrees Roche. “The veterans’ book was a great experience, because I got to hone my interview skills and my interpersonal skills with that. This book was more so talking about myself, and it was easy to write from the perspective that it’s a subject that I’m very passionate about, but I also had to be very choosey, because if I did put every encounter that Paula and I had ever had in that book, it would probably be about the size of a bible.” She chuckles, then continues. “It would’ve been a cofLIC #8414
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fee table book, for sure.” Roche had fun with Forever Her Girl: The Stories & Experiences of a Major Fangirl, and although she was undecided throughout whether or not to publish it, she did so, and for an important reason. “I want other fangirls who pick it up in 10 years, I want them to know they are normal and their feelings are valid. I’m very lucky that my family always understood it. They let me do my thing. There’s a lot of people who are not as fortunate, and whose parents are like, ‘Oh my God, what is mentally wrong with you? You’re crazy!’ I want them to see it’s really not like that. I’ve learned so much through the past 15 years that other people’s opinions of you don’t matter, and you should never let people tell you how to live your life.” Roche is sure there will be another book in her future, and she hints at some details. “I’ve been contemplating writing a book for kids who are going into the world of journalism,” she explains. “I know for me, I would’ve loved to have had a kind of a handbook per se for the first two years out of college, for what to look for and what to do, and how to get started. If I can help someone else, then that would be cool, too.” As sure as Roche is that many who read the book will learn more about her, she also states that she learned more about herself through the process. “I think one thing that I’ve learned from the feedback that I’ve gotten from other people who have read it is that I have a very loyal friend group. I have a lot of people who are in my corner, and I don’t necessarily see that sometimes. That’s one thing, and I think for me, too, I learned that I could take on something of this magnitude and put it together and put it out there. I mean, I was just impressed that I wrote 30,000 words, and I do feel like
at times I rambled on a bit, but just to be able to see it and hold it was nothing short of incredible. I remember when the FedEx box came in the mail with all of them (books), and I remember bringing it up to my room and sliced it open, and I opened the box and I saw them with the shiny cover and all the pictures – it was like an overwhelming feeling of, ‘Wow! I actually accomplished this!’” Every time she’s in New York City, Roche reflects about the first meeting with Abdul. “I walk up there, I walk past that little side door where that moment happened, and I kind of take a minute to just be grateful, because I know I have a lot of friends – a lot of international friends – who I know will probably never get a chance to do what I have done,” she says. “That date, (March 19) every year, I post about that day at the exact time I got to meet her. All of my friends poke fun at it still, but only a handful of them actually know what that feeling is like: to stand in front of a person you admire, and actually have them want to carry on a conversation with you.” Will Paula Abdul get a copy of Forever Her Girl: The Stories & Experiences of a Major Fangirl? Absolutely, but in a special way. “I’m saving that for the next time that I see her,” says Roche. “I want to give her a copy personally, I want to be the one to actually hand it to her and explain to her what it is. This book is my gift of gratitude to her and I feel like for me that’s something very personal that I want to share with her.” If interested in receiving a copy of Forever Her Girl: The Stories & Experiences of a Major Fangirl, Roche can be contacted at Megan.Roche13@gmail.com.
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For Gabe Vitalone, Dream Accomplished
By Steve Sears he former 34-year William Paterson University professor walked out from underneath the Yankee Stadium stands, exited the visiting team’s dugout, looked up at the scoreboard, and was greeted with a message: “The Yankees welcome Gabe Vitalone.” “You have no idea,” the 98-year-old says of that March 2020 afternoon. “I auditioned in front of an empty stadium. I’ve seen pictures of it, I’ve been to the (Yankee) Stadium so many times, but nothing looked the way it looked that day. It was surreal; there was no movement, there were no people.” Okay, maybe it wasn’t Opening Day for the 2020 Major League Baseball season, but still, Vitalone accomplished a dream of singing the National Anthem at Yankee Stadium. In mid-February, Vitalone’s son, Peter, posted a Vimeo Internet video about his dad’s desire to sing our nation’s anthem for his boyhood friend, Joe Romano, who died in World War II. “I had mentioned to him (Peter) that, every time I hear the National Anthem, I think of my buddy Joe (a United States Marines Corporal), and it’s been that way since we lost him in World War II.” The film went viral, and Vitalone received an invite from the Yankees to visit. “I had to chuckle,” Vitalone, a member of the WPU’s Athletic Hall of Fame and a 2005 recipient of its Faculty Service Award, says of his special day at the Stadium. “I said, ‘My God, who ever dreamed that this would happen.’” After the audition, the Yankees then invited Vitalone to sing at the April 19th home opener against the Cincinnati Reds, which was canceled due to COVID19. However, Vitalone’s “Star Spangled Banner” perfor-
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mance before more than 50,000 or more fans still may happen in the future. The March day was thrilling. As a child, Vitalone used to exit Yankee games at the original baseball cathedral by walking on the field to the centerfield exits, he one time even kneeling at second base to feel the dirt while telling himself, “Someday I’m going to be here.” “That never happened, but in a way it did,” he says. “Here I was standing there, and I had a surreal feeling about it. And when they came out and asked me to sing, I was caught by surprise because my son hadn’t told me they were going to ask me to do that.” An inner peace took over as he approached the microphone and started to sing. “I was not frightened, I was not nervous, I just sang it the way I felt.” “I just felt Joe’s presence. I wasn’t out there alone.” Vitalone and Romano met at age 12 when serving as altar boys while living in the Italian area of Yonkers, New York. The friendship flourished, and both became interested in baseball, especially the New York Yankees, attending World Series games from 1936 – 1939. In fact, Vitalone even snagged the first ticket to the 1943 series – a bleacher seat for $1.10. He still has the stub. Romano died 9 months after that Fall Classic, and both were such good friends, Vitalone adopted Romano’s mom as his second mother, visiting with her during holidays up until her passing, and also befriended his brother until he passed in early 2020. “He’s (Romano) still a part of me. I’m looking up now at my dresser and I can see his picture on my dresser,” Vitalone says. Vitalone, who lives in Pompton Plains with his wife of 66 years, Evelyn, is currently writing his memoirs, and there are a few general themes. “I want to live my life to the fullest. I don’t want to change who I am, but ask God to allow me to be – as he always has – who I am. It’s necessary for me to set the best example I can for other people. I want people to say, ‘If he can do that at 98, I’m going to live my life like I can do it.’” He then adds, “I love people and people have always loved me, and that’s the cycle that keeps me going.” “I would never have imagined this, and I’ll always be thankful for it.”
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Get Your Mansion in May Fix at Splendor in September Featuring: Tyvan Hill
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By Jillian Risberg yvan Hill is that jaw-dropping property you just have to immerse yourself in to grasp. The gracious country estate built by the Castles family of New York City has a long and storied history. “When I think of Tyvan Hill my mind immediately conjures up a vision of a winding drive off a stately country road, leading to a magnificent estate on a hill surrounded by over 20 tranquil acres,” says co-chair, Pat O’Connor. “A setting that cries out Mansion in May. It has everything a mansion Chair could ever ask for, including enough wonderful spaces inside and out for almost 50 designers.” The Women's Association for Morristown Medical Center (WAMMC) chose the 10,000-square-foot Tyvan Hill in New Vernon as the site of its 19th Mansion in May. After being sidelined for months due to the Coronavirus pandemic they are now presenting it as Splendor in September. Tom Salaki, principal of Square Acre Studio in Madison recreated a landscape design for Tyvan Hill based on the original plan designed in 1928. “The Courtyard will enhance but not detract from the gorgeous entrance of Tyvan Hill and the back of the mansion is a tranquil setting,” Salaki says. “Our landscape designers have created spaces to appeal to your enjoying a relaxing day in the country!" Since its inception in 1974, Mansion in May Designer Showhouse and Gardens has raised over $11.5 million for worthwhile causes at Morristown Medical Center. Proceeds from Tyvan Hill will benefit the expansion of the Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute. “It is a cause which is very personal to us, each having lost a parent to heart disease way before we should have, and I lost my husband to a very rare heart condition,” O’Connor says. “When the WAMMC Board unanimously chose the expansion of Gagnon as our cause, I was overwhelmed with joy and, quite honestly, moved to tears.” According to O’Connor, without Gagnon’s expansion project the facility would have only been able to handle an estimated ten-percent of projected new patient volume based on our aging population. “Going forward, whenever I drive past MMC and see the newly expanded Gagnon facility, I will be filled with a sense of pride that I had a little something to do with making sure our community has access to world-class cardiovascular care,” the co-chair says. For WAMMC President Katie Nolle, September can’t come soon enough. “The joy of opening the doors and welcoming visitors on Tuesday, September 8 to Ty-
All Photo credits: Dannette Merchant
van Hill will be wonderful,” Nolle says. “I am looking forward to thanking patrons for supporting our cause and seeing the hard work that our volunteers, interior designers and landscape designers have put forth to make Tyvan Hill a beautiful country estate.” In an effort to provide guests with a pleasant and safe visit, they have established new admissions protocols and will be enforcing state and local mandates to prevent the spread of COVID-19. MIM is such a beloved event — Nolle attributes its success over the past 46 years to their commitment to the WAMMC motto of "Contributing with Passion" and apply this passion to every detail. “We open the doors to historic homes that have been neglected and embrace the aura of each mansion. This mystique appeals to the patrons who are always curious to view these grand estates,” Nolle says. “We have a loyal following of designers as well as patrons who support us as we raise funds for Morristown Medical Center.” According to co-chair Kathy Ross, people may not know that they never rent or lease a house to transform it into a Mansion in May. “We rely on the generosity of homeowners who graciously share their homes with us to transform and present to the public,” Ross says. “Without homeowners' kindness, there would be no Mansion in May.” And there are pieces of a mansion puzzle that fill her with joy. “Witnessing the transformation of a ‘house’ to a mansion, thanks to our designers' deep skill set; their creativity and vision set the bar high amongst designer show-houses throughout the country,” Ross says. “It is an honor to work on a project that benefits Morristown Medical Center, a true pillar of healthcare in our community.” Tyvan Hill means hundreds of talented people working tirelessly together, while being as flexible as possible to make sure this Mansion can move seamlessly from what was to be in May to their newly envisioned Splendor in September. “It’s the Mansion that just won’t quit, as it continues to press on towards its goal to benefit the much-needed expansion of Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute at a time when our hospital’s resources have been stretched by an unexpected pandemic,” O’Connor says. “It’s an opportunity for our greater community to say thank you to the hospital community that was and is always there for all of us.”
August 2020 • Page 27
WOODCLIFF LAKE
$719,900 NEW LISTING
Welcome to this spectacular upgraded first floor unit at the luxurious Four Seasons at Ridgemont. Marigold Model. Premium location on first floor overlooking pool and clubhouse. 2BR, 2 Full Baths. MBR with 2 walk-in closets & full bath with granite vanity. LR, FDR, Chef’s kitchen with granite & SS appliances, opens to family room with fireplace, laundry room in unit, HW floors, carpet in BR’s. Unit comes with 2 parking spaces & storage unit. Too many upgrades to mention! List available. Four Seasons at Ridgemont offers pool and clubhouse with kitchen, gym, game/card room. putting green & bocce ball court. Maintenance fee includes landscaping, snow removal & common areas.
PATERSON
$295,000 NEW LISTING
Move in condition Condo in Garret Heights with finished loft & beautiful breathtaking views. Also offers 2 BR’s, updated kitchen & 2 full baths. LR w/woodburning fireplace. Formal DR w/sliders to balcony. Crown molding & new HW floors throughout! New HW heater, New furnace and HVAC. All appliances stay. Central air and walking distance to Garret Mountain Reservation. Laundry located in unit. Close to major highways, public transportation & shopping. Pet friendly! This unit will not last! Room sizes are approximate.
TOTOWA $399,900 4 BEDROOM CAPE Spacious & move in - ready cape with front dormer located in desirable residential neighborhood. LR, KIE w/door in pergola covered deck. Sunroom, 2 BR’s. C/T bath on 1st floor. 2nd level offers 2 bedrooms & storage, enclosed rear porch. Generously sized rooms throughout. Hardwood floors. Finished basement offers rec. room, office, laundry & storage. Beautiful private backyard with patio & storage shed. Driveway parking for 4 cars. Roof approx. 5 yrs old, new HW heater.
WOODLAND PARK $359,900 2 FAMILY GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR AN INVESTOR! Front unit offers: LR, KIT, bath on 1st floor & 2 BRS on 2nd floor. This unit has replacement windows, newer furnace & hot water heater. Rear unit offers LR with ceiling fan & recessed lighting, EIK, Pantry, Large BR w/2 closets, bath w/floor to ceiling tiles. Roof approx.. 10 years old. Gas Heat for front unit & electric heat for rear unit. Conveniently located to most major highways in just minutes.
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