Pascack Press 12.4.23 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

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

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

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 38

Holiday Shopping Guide

See page 11

DECEMBER 4, 2023

UNDEFEATED STATE CHAMPS

2023 Westwood Cardinals 21-20 in OT; school-record 13-0 season; Coach of the Year

RIVER VALE

SAFETY COMPLEX IS A GO

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

By a vote of 3-0, the Township Council awarded a nearly $15 million construction bid contract Nov. 27 to Dobco, Inc. of Wayne to construct the new Public Safety Complex on a township owned parcel at the corner of Rivervale Road and Prospect Avenue. Councilmember John Donovan and Council president Paul Criscuolo were absent. Approving the contract award were council vice president Denise Sieg, and members Ari Ben-Yishay and Jim Tolomeo. The winning bid of $14,778,500 was the lowest of five bids submitted by contractors following council rejection of bids that averaged $500,000 to $1 million

See PUBLIC on page 264

VOTERS GET BOND OPTION OVERVIEW ON JAN. 11 Next steps on George G. White Middle School renovation pitch BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PUBLIC

Council OKs $14.8M bid for construction at Rivervale Road and Prospect Avenue; costs questioned vs. mayor Brombergʼs ʻWe need to do this projectʼ

HILLSDALE

Bergen County Executive James Tedesco III sums it up: “Congrats to the undefeated Westwood Cardinals for their win in the group 2 state football championship! 21-20 OT! You made Bergen County proud!” It was the Cards over the Rumson–Fair Haven Bulldogs at Rutgers in Piscataway, Nov. 27, 2023. — Bill Hickey photo EʼLL BE TALKING about this game, this team, for generations, and rightfully so… Hungry Rumson–Fair Haven scores first on senior RB Alastair Orrʼs 2-yard run in the first quarter for a 7-0 lead at the N J S I A A / R o t h m a n Orthopaedics Group 2 final Monday night at Rutgersʼ SHI ter on a 3-yard run by junior RB junior QB Owen OʼToole to Aidan Dugan to tie it at 7. The sophomore TE Jack Gyimesi, Stadium in Piscataway. Westwood gets on the Bulldogs get back on top in the 14-7. scoreboard in the second quar- third on an 8-yard pass from Continued on page 39

A third public forum to discuss the three proposed middle school renovation options—along with yet-unreleased higher annual taxpayer costs for a likely 20-yearbond term as required by the state—was rescheduled for Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, 7 p.m. at the George White Middle School, said school officials. However, the superintendent told Pascack Press Nov. 27 that they were exploring whether the new construction elements of the proposed three options might be bonded separately—and possibly over a longer 30-year term—versus the 20-year bond term required for school renovation options. But the superintendent said this may not be possible. "There is no scheduled (bond costs) release anytime before that. The feedback from the meetings was that Option 3 was the favored option. Having said that, we want to explore options for bond terms at and beyond 20 years for all options to help work toward a resolution for presentation to the voters for what has been a decades long challenge surrounding the infrastructure and learning settings and space of George G. White

See VOTERS on page 244

RAIDERS TOPS

B ck in time...

Park Ridge Raiders on Nov. 20 beat the Bengals, 28–0, to win the Super Bowl as champions in the 3rd/4th grade division of the Pascack Flag Football League PAGE 19

During one of your visits to the Pascack Historical Society’s museum, you might have heard a volunteer refer to the building as their biggest artifact. There’s good reason for that.

PAGE 4

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WESTWOOD

CROSS-COUNTRY ‘GIRL POWER’ BOUND FOR NATIONALS

Four girls from the Westwood cross country team have laced up their shoes and set their sights on what the program tells Pascack Press is the ultimate prize: the USATF National Junior Olympics Youth Cross Country Championship. Brooke Colella, Grace Harrahy, Zoe Zapata, and Ava Sterkenburg, in grades 8, 6, 4, and 3, respectively, are headed to Louisville, Ky. to race against the nationʼs best in their age groups at the championships on Saturday, Dec. 9. “The road to the national championship has been paved with sweat, determination, some tears, and a shared goal of excellence led by Coach Ruben Baerga. Having four athletes qualify for the national championship is no

small feat, and it is even more impressive with Coach Ruben being at the helm for only two seasons,” the Striders tell us. This accomplishment is hardly surprising for those who know Ruben, the program adds. “Leveraging his 20-plus years of coaching and military background, his dedication and attention to quality have positioned his student-athletes to consistently improve and perform at their highest level.” Moreover, “The girlsʼ accomplishment is not just an opportunity for individual glory; itʼs a chance for them to inspire others. The dedication, discipline, and sportsmanship exhibited by these four athletes serve as a beacon for aspiring runners within the program and the broader community.” Win or lose, says Westwood

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Cross Country, the team “couldnʼt be more proud of the girl power headed to nationals and supporting their achievement of something extraordinary, proving that the pursuit of excellence is a journey worth taking.” Westwood New Jersey Striders is a USA T&F sanctioned Youth Track & Field Club,. which competes in two seasons per year: track & field in spring and crosscountry in the fall. The New Jersey Striders Track Club is a non-profit club with members from New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. “We compete in local and national races and meets. The Striders are involved in youth, open, and masters competitions with an emphasis on touth.” Each year it organizes several Youth Track & Field developmental competitions in April, May, and June. The Westwood Striders are involved only in youth competitions.

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TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Township Administrator Mark DiCarlo told the town council in November that he would raise a request for sound barriers on some local streets that abut the Garden State Parkway at an upcoming meeting with New Jersey Turnpike Authority officials. Council vice president Steven Cascio, at a mid-October council meeting, said he had spoken with residents on West Place, Fairfield Court and Carriage Court who requested sound barriers. He said Fairfield Court abuts the parkway and residents there either want a sound barrier or “something more sturdy” to address noise and other issues. DiCarlo said at the Nov. 8 meeting that he would raise the

topic at a meeting that had already been scheduled with Turnpike Authority officials. Previously, council president Desserie Morgan noted noise concerns also affected the Gardner Field and playground and nearby homes on Ridgewood Boulevard North. The former Township Swim Club, a 6.1-acre compound purchased in April 2022 for future use as a recreational site, also adjoins the parkway. DiCarlo said he would discuss sound barriers with township engineer John Yakimic of Boswell Engineering before raising the issue with the Turnpike Authority. He said the mayor told him prior requests for sound barriers along sections of the parkway had been denied. DiCarlo also noted that Boswell had completed a topographic survey of the former swim club property and was working on conceptual designs for the site.

Proposed Exit 168 Signal Update DiCarlo said a meeting with the Turnpike Authority, which oversees the parkway, was being scheduled to address concerns raised by township professionals about a proposed plan for a signal at the end of Exit 168 at Washington Avenue. He provided no details. Local officials notified residents about two years ago that the Turnpike Authority was considering a signal at the end of Exit 168, which motorists had complained about frequently. There is a stop sign at the end of the Exit 168 ramp. Heavy rushhour traffic makes left-hand turns toward Van Emburgh Avenue and Ho-Ho-Kus difficult and risky, residents have reported. Moreover, right-hand turns on to Washington Avenue toward the township are less difficult but backed-up traffic at the busy inter-

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Where all are welcome Pascack Historical Society celebrates its home’s 150th

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

PARK RIDGE Post 162 says, “Ensure that a soldier, sailor, airman, Marine or Coast Guardsman knows that his or her sacrifices are appreciated: Write a letter!”

Ensure that a soldier, sailor, airman, Marine or Coast Guardsman knows that his or her sacrifices are appreciated this and every holiday season: Write a letter! American Legion Post 162 sends thousands of letters and quality of life care packages to our deployed troops every year. Of all the items included in these packages, the most cherished it knows, are personal letters of appreciation. Post 162 tells Pascack Press, “Our goal is to include several letters and colorful drawings in every care package and tell our troops we care. Writing a letter is a meaningful way for Americans to show support for our military. It only takes five minutes of your day, but will bring lasting joy to our troops.” Here are the post-area troops deployed, at last count and in alphabetical order:

See TROOPS on page 104

URING ONE OF YOUR visits

to the Pascack Historical Societyʼs museum in Park Ridge, you might have heard one of their volunteers refer to the building as their biggest artifact. There is good reason for that. The building, a former church that turns 150 years old this week, is intertwined with religious, educational, and social history of the 19th century Pascack Valley. The regionʼs early settlers were principally of Dutch descent, and so the first church in the area was the Reformed Church that is still standing at 65 Pascack Road. Built in 1812, that was the only church in the local area for most of the 19th century. When the chapel at 19 Ridge Ave. opened in 1873, it offered an alternative to the Dutch Reformed way of worshipping. The building saw many Park Ridge “firsts”: it had the first lending library in town, the first soup kitchen for the hungry, and the first homeless shelter. The chapel was the townʼs first public meeting space and for years school graduations were held within its walls. Its bell did double duty as the first fire alarm in town. Finally, the building became the first free museum in Bergen County when the Pascack Historical Society set up its headquarters in 1952. The congregation that estab-

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

LEACH

BEECHER

5The chapel’s first organ, a gift from Henry Ward Beecher and his Plymouth Church, is now a focal point of the John C. Storms Museum’s An 1870s certificate of examina- Victorian Parlor. 6Park Ridge’s Congregational Church on Ridge Avenue. tion from the First Congregational Since 1952 it has been the Pascack Historical Society’s museum. Sabbath School. Educating children spring from several marriages was among the most important facacross his lifetime. He served on tors in building the chapel. the local school board and donated land at Pascack Road and Park lished the chapel had its origins in Avenue for the building of a the Plymouth Congregational school, which is still the location Church in Brooklyn. This was of Park Ridge High School. during the ministry of the famous Leach sought to establish in preacher and abolitionist Rev. Park Ridge a program similar to Henry Ward Beecher. Plymouthʼs Sunday School, where James Leach (1827–1906), a he had served as assistant superinparishioner of Beecherʼs at Plytendent. To this end, he collaboratmouth Church and a wealthy New ed with father–son pair James B. York stationery supplier, moved Hall and Jacob H. Hall to purchase his family to Park Ridge in 1872. land and build a Sunday school/meeting hall on a newly mapped street called Ridge Avenue. By the 1870s, a few members The railroad had just come of the Dutch Reformed Church on through the Pascack Valley a cou- Pascack Road had differences ple of years earlier, enabling resi- with the parish and broke their ties dents for the first time to live in with its tradition. James B. Hall (b. the country while commuting into 1803), a farmer and itinerant shoeNew York City for work. The maker, and his son, Jacob H. Hall beautiful Leach mansion, known (b. 1845), a merchant and real as Glen Manor, sat on a 100 acre estate agent, were two dissenters. Like Leach, these men were of estate on Fremont Avenue. Leach became a leader in the British descent rather than being community. He was a member of Jersey Dutch like most of their the first borough council when neighbors. Both were also highly Park Ridge was incorporated in 1894, and he was the mayor at the involved in community affairs in time of his death in 1906. He was Park Ridge. Like Leach, Jacob also concerned with the education See WELCOME on page 174 of children. Leach had 16 off-

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Publisher Editor Staff Writer Contributing Editor Art Director Director of Advertising

John J. DeFina John Snyder Michael Olohan Kristin Beuscher Keith J. Harcher George F. Harcher

The articles and opinions printed in Pascack Press are not necessarily those of the publisher. Pascack Press is neither liable nor responsible for typographical errors. This publication contains material developed independently by Pascack Press. It may not be reproduced, in whole or in part. Pascack Press is published in Westwood and is distributed to every household in our circulation area.

members with a wide range of ability levels—from beginner to

FROM PAGE 2

PARK RIDGE

where they are running four to five times per week and averaging 20–25 miles per week. They competed in three NJ Striders developmental meets in Mahwah; four XC Youth Invitational meets at Holmdel Park Holmdel, at Greystone Park - Morris Plains, at Oak Ridge Park Clark, and at Van Cortlandt Park -

New York, N.Y; and the State Championships—USA T&F NJ Association XC Championships at Greystone Park. For more information about the Westwood Cross Country and spring track programs, contact Coach Ruben Baerga at rubenbaerga@gmail.com or (562) 235-3239.

Club News!

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

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Rec Christmas tree lighting Dec. 3

Park Ridge Recreationʼs Annual Christmas Tree Lighting is at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3 at Depot Square. See Frosty and friends and enjoy holiday music, hot chocolate, treats, and more. Kids can get a free raffle ticket to try to light up Frosty and the tree and win a prize too. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Tri-Boro Food Pantry! On Monday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. Valley Chabad holds its Second Annual Park Ridge Menorah lighting, also in Depot Square.

pete in four age groups: 7–8, 9–10, 11–12, and 13–14. The practices are three general types of workouts: distance runs and aerobic conditioning, intervals/speed workouts, and tempo threshold training This season the four Westwood NJ Strider National Qualifiers, Ava, Zoe, Grace, and Brooke, started training in late August, running three to four times per week for an average of 10–12 miles per week. Theyʼre ending the season in December,

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national caliber—the program understands that with youth comes inexperience and therefore we focus on learning and having fun and knowing that the participants will successfully transition to the next levels.” The Westwood NJ Striders Cross Country season is a fourmonth-long season that practices three to four times per week at local trails and parks: Westvale Park and Pascack Brook County Park. The athletes, aged 7–14, com-

6 TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

HILLSDALE

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Knights’ food drive Dec. 9

Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council 5427 of the Township of Washington will conduct its annual winter food drive, Saturday, Dec. 9, to collect non-perishable food goods to help the needy through local food pantries. Knights ask all Township of Washington residents to place bagged donations at their front door by 10 a.m. Volunteers from will pick up the parcels as they cover every residence in the town-

ship. A food drive notice will be mailed to township households before the drive. Pascack Press, will publish a reminder for your convenience. Non-perishable food items needed are powdered milk, hot and cold cereals, canned fruits, vegetables, stew, fish, meats, soups, onecan meals, peanut butter, pudding, Jell-O, jelly, pasta products, rice, baby food, sugar, flour, coffee, tea,

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

pancake mix, etc. Personal hygiene items are especially appreciated as they cannot be obtained with food stamps. In lieu of these items, monetary donations may be sent to the K of C Food Drive, 79 Pascack Road, Township of Washington, NJ 07676. The parcels of food and other items may be left there as well. For more information, call chairman Chuck Merlo at (201) 661-0191, or the council at (201) 664-0422.

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Joanʼs Joy founder Rosemarie DʼAlessandro writes Pascack Press to seek support for an important cause: the cleanup of the spot at Harriman State Park, in Orange

in a natural way,” she adds. DʼAlessandro says, “The Joanʼs Joy foundation has to rent a mini excavator and buy yards of dirt and pay for insurance plus

Remembering Joan D’Alessandro at the 8th Annual Joan’s Joy Child Safety Festival, downtown Hillsdale, on Sept. 24, 2022. John Snyder photo. and Rockland counties, N.Y., where her daughter, Joanʼs, body was left in 1973 after her assault and murder. “Early this month a supporter found about 50 boulders of different sizes that were dumped near the sign that marks the spot where Joanʼs body was left over 50 years ago after her life was taken by a neighbor,” DʼAlessandro says. “A heart-shaped rock was found 10 feet away from the location on the same day Joanʼs killer died [in prison] on June 5, 2021. The supporter and his friend are going to clean up the area and move the rocks to enhance the area

other expenses. This will all cost an estimated $3,000, and $1,000 to pay the workers.” She says, “If readers would like to contribute and help with the expenses for the project, theyʼll find the link for the GoFundMe at JoansJoy.org.” According to DʼAlessandro, “The job will take about three days and will make the area more beautiful so that people can visit and listen to the water, think about Joanʼs legacy of child safety, and feel peaceful. The foundation thanks all those who have already given and who support their child safety efforts.”

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Goldsmith a finalist with ‘Tuscan Hilltop’

International Guild of Realism is presents its 2023 Fall Salon Online Exhibition Oct. 20–Dec. 20. The guild tells Pascack Press that Park Ridge artist Alice Goldsmithʼs painting “Tuscan Hilltop”

is a finalist for the International Guild of Realism Salon Exhibit. The painting reveals a view of a faroff villa on a hilltop overlooking an olive grove with a lush still life in the foreground.

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More than 625 paintings were entered. Artists from more than 20 countries are represented. The Fall Salon is live on the IGOR website showcasing 205 artworks from IGOR members. “We have this important juried exhibition listed on two major art websites, including our active IGOR website and the amazing website of American Art Collector Magazine. We invite you to sit back and enjoy viewing the winning paintings and the entire exhibition,” the guild says. (Visit realismguild.com and americanartcollector.com.) The International Guild of Realism's primary mission is to advance realism in fine art through museum exhibitions, art gallery shows, workshops and education programs conducted by their members, marketing support, and internet exposure. Goldsmith was educated at University of the Arts in Philadelphia, and received two scholarships to study in Italy. She also studied at the Art Students League of New York City as a

pupil of internationally known painter Harvey Dinnerstein. Goldsmith has exhibited her work at numerous galleries nationally. She has also worked many years in pharmaceutical advertising and has recently turned her attention to painting full time. Goldsmith says on her website, AliceGoldsmithFineArt.com, “My passion for painting began when I was 3 years old and hasn't wavered since. Whether it was poring over books and copying the work of the masters like Michelangelo, Velasquez, Degas, or traveling through the museums of Europe, or

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even imitating the art of DC Comics, I found my inspiration everywhere. And though Iʼve tackled many styles and subject matter, portrait painting was my true vocation. The figure in painting is simply the most beautiful and inspirational for me.” Her portrait work is featured at PortraitArtist.com’s site “A Stroke of Genius.” She won the Betty Kaytes Memorial Floral award at the Ridgewood Art Institute 2022 Open Juried Show. She can be found on Instagram @Goldsmith 8463.

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Inaugural CW Gingerbread House Contest Dec. 11 Whether youʼre a seasoned gingerbread house builder or a first-timer, organizers encourage you to participate. “This is a fun event for the whole family, and we canʼt wait to see your creations!” For this contest, anything

goes. “Contestants are welcome to build with gingerbread, cardboard, paper, foam, or any other building material. We wonʼt be taste testing! Kits are also welcome and widely available.” Register at Celebratewestwood.org/Gingerbread ($5 registration fee). Participants are invited to set up their display at the Westwood Community Center (55 Jefferson Ave.) on Dec. 11 from 5:30 to 6 p.m. and stay with their displays throughout the duration of the event. Gingerbread houses

should be made off-site in advance, with only mild tweaks necessary for display the night of the event. Contestants and spectators are invited to view and vote from 6 to 7:30 p.m. by stopping by the Community Center. This is the same evening as as the Recreation Department winter crafting event (registration for that will be available via Community Pass) so organizers expect a solid stream of festive voters. Onsite awards and prizes will

be presented at 7:45 p.m., Dec. 11. All entries will be posted on Celebrate Westwood social media and eligible for consideration in the “Internetʼs Favorite” prize category to be awarded the following day. Winning houses will be displayed at the Westwood Free Public Library Dec. 12–22. All participants will take home a small treat for their efforts. CelebrateWestwood.org has resources on house kits and local candy shops. Direct questions to westwoodartshub@gmail.com.

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Spots are open to register for the Celebrate Westwood ArtsHub Gingerbread House Contest on Dec. 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center. Registration is required to hold your space.

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Senior fellowship holiday luncheon Dec. 12

The Westwood Senior Fellowship Holiday Luncheon is set for Tuesday, Dec. 12 at Domani Ristorante Italiano, Hillsdale shop-

ping center. Cost is $40 per person. The doors open at 11:30 a.m. To reserve your seat, call Rita at (201) 666-1754. Please bring a nonpersh-

able food item to the luncheon to donate to those in need. Club president Mary Cerrati says, “Happy holidays to all!”

Troops:

Sean Adair Billy Beattie Olivia Beattie Sean Cuffe James DeChiara Alex Falkoff Sgt. Zoltan Horvath III SPC Sean Keohane Matthew Kleman Brian McKenna Tara McNiff Christian Mitchell Steve Paskas Jake Prusha Areg Safari Lainey Svorec Michael Velthaus Chris Vetterlien

FROM PAGE 4

Note: Please write names on exterior of envelopes for ease of sorting.

Guidelines • Express your thanks for their selfless service; • Avoid politics completely and religion in excess; however, saying you pray for them is wonderful; • Share a little about yourself: family, hobbies, work, pets; • Talk about life back home: sports, weather, music, and movies; • Adults: Include your contact information (mail or email) so the letter/package recipient can reply. Children: FIRST NAMES ONLY with parent mail/email; • Still canʼt find the words? Consider drawing or painting a picture instead (Please avoid glitter). Please drop off letters at Hillsdale Town Hall, Library, Post Office, Local Schools, Post 162 at 98 Legion Place or emails to commander@americanlegionpost162.org Last day of letter pick-up is Dec. 13.

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See the preview! AHA fashion show returns Dec. 3

Attention, fashionistas: Enjoy a preview of some of the latest luxe looks as the Academy of the Holy Angels Fashion Show returns to the catwalk Sunday, Dec. 3, from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. The AHA Parentsʼ Guild

reserved The Venetian at 546 River Drive in Garfield for this time-honored event, which benefits scholarships and financial aid for the Academyʼs students. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception and tricky tray auction fea-

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turing gift baskets brimming with exciting items donated by local businesses and AHA parents. A festive luncheon and the spectacular show will follow. Eighty-five members of the AHA Class of 2024 will be modeling fabulous fashions from local, mostly women-owned small businesses. Ensembles will be provided by The Fig Leaf in Maywood, Marigold Boutique in Midland Park, Seven + Seven in Nutley, Threads in Westwood, Suite 201 in Ridgewood, Bella & Love in Ridgewood, KD

Boutique in Midland Park, and UNTUCKit. Approximately 400 guests are expected to attend. For more information visit holyangels.org/giving/events. Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, the Academy of the Holy Angels is the oldest private girlsʼ school in Bergen County. While AHA is steeped in Catholic tradition, this prestigious school serves young women from many cultural and religious backgrounds. Alumnae study at some of the

nationʼs best universities, earning high-ranking positions in medicine, government, law, education, public service, business, arts, and athletics. AHAʼs leaders further the SSND mission to provide each student with the tools she needs to reach the fullness of her potential— spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically, by offering a firstrate education in a nurturing environment where equal importance is placed on academic excellence, character development, moral integrity, and service.

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‘Rabble-rousing’ church to celebrate 150th anniversary

It was a chilly December evening in 1873 when Henry Ward Beecher made his way from his Brooklyn church to a new church start in Park Ridge. Beecher, known as “Americaʼs Pastor,” delivered the organizing sermon to a packed house of people eager to hear about the new community. From that day, the First Congregational Church began to preach and live the Gospel of love expressed in a joyful, social Gospel freed from the constraints of Calvinist doctrine. Those first founders served the small Black community that worked at the defunct Bobbin Factory— employing the men, starting a sewing circle and a soup kitchen for

the families—starting the area's first lending library (much to the scandal of others), sang joyful songs (again, scandalous!) housed the graduation ceremonies for the high school, and lent the use of their bell to the nascent fire department to call for help. From the beginning, the determined and often criticized members of First Congregational were driven by “doing a new thing, relieving the suffering of others, promoting the education of children, and expressing the Good News with joy, the full embrace of life, and the ability to go against the grain.” Today, First Congregational

Church reflects the rabble-rousing nature of its founders “by proclaiming a Gospel of love, inclusion, and hope for all people. “We fully embrace our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors, study anti-racism, march for peace, work for the good of our hometown and our world, and enjoy the warm determination of a people who are set to make a difference in the world.” Congregants say “We are celebrating 150 years of life this Dec. 10 and hope that this season of memory is also a season of renewal. Worship is at 10 on Sunday mornings,

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with Nursery School provided, and on Dec. 10, there will be a celebratory concert in the Sanctuary at 7 p.m. that is free and open to the public. You can find us just down the hill from our original chapel, now the

Pascack Historical Society, at 131 Pascack Road, Park Ridge. We look forward to welcoming you!” To see related memorabilia, visit the Pacack Historical Society on Sundays and Wednesdays.

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Valley-wide Chanukah fun for all

This year, Chanukah is celebrated from Thursday, Dec. 7, for eight nights. Valley Chabad Center for Jewish Life says itʼs holding “various family wide activities, which will include latkes, donuts, dreidels and gelt, and our very own Graffiti Menorah in River Vale!” The invitation reads, “In light of the situation in Israel, all celebrations will be focusing on supporting the local communities and praying for the release of the hostages.” Valley Chabadʼs Chanukah celebrations include: • River Vale Graffiti Menorah: Dec. 7, 5:30 p.m, featuring fire truck gelt drop, Chanukah foods, crafts, and prizes, and a 9-

Plenty Of Fresh Fish!

Potato latkes, donuts, cocoa, and gelt await! Chanukah is the Festival of Lights.

@anchorseafoodnj Rabbi Yosef Orenstein of Valley Chabad organized 2021’s Menorah lighting in Westwood’s Veterans Park. Rabbi Dov Drizin, Chabad’s executive director, praised Westwood’s public servants. Ray Arroyo photo

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foot graffiti menorah. • Chanukah Public Menorah Lightings: — Woodcliff Lakeʼs Ticeʼs Corner Mall, Dec. 7, 5 p.m. — Township of Washington

Town Hall, Dec. 10, 6 p.m. — Montvale Train Station, Dec. 10, 4 p.m. — Westwood Train Station, Dec. 10, 5 p.m.

RIVER VALE

RVPD hosts seniors’ holiday luncheon

The River Vale Police Department hosts a holiday luncheon for the River Vale Senior Friendship Club on Wednesday, Dec. 13. This is a members-only function. Doors open at noon. Seats remaib for the early

New Yearʼs celebration by the Jersey Dreamers at the Brownstone in Paterson on Dec. 30. Cost is $65 for members and $68 for others. For information and reservations call Hilda at (201) 2655257.

— Hillsdaleʼs Demarest Farms, Dec. 11, 5 p.m. — Park Ridge Train Station, Dec. 11, 6 p.m. — Allendale Train Station, Dec. 13, 6 p.m. • Donuts for Dads: A project of Valley Chabad Hebrew School on Dec. 10. Inviting all dads and kids for a tasty Chanukah event at the Hebrew School cafeteria. • Adult Chanukah Party: Valley Chabad invites all adults and friends to a latkes and vodka event on Dec. 14, celebrating the Chanukah joys through the eighth Day of Chanukah. For more information visit valleychabad.org. — Staff report

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The Park Ridge Rotary Club is happy to announce its 35h annual fruit sale, “fresh from the grove” sweet navel oranges and pink grapefruit. Organizers say, “With the success we had last year with the quality of fruit and access to on line ordering system supplied by

the grower, online ordering is here to stay starting this year, making your ordering with us a easy and quick experience.” They add, “Fresh oranges and grapefruit in December make for a great holiday gift for family, friends, business, schools, churches or for any special someone or

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

occasion, or just bring sunshine to a neighbor who could use a bit of cheer.” Order your fruit via http://freshfruitorder.org/ParkRidgeRot ary. Click on place order and select your fruit options: seedless navel oranges or pink grapefruit; check either full case $48 (approx. 42 lbs.) or half case $30 (approx. 21 lbs.) All online orders will receive an email notification of the date your order is available for pick-up.

Other ordering options Mail in your citrus fruit order with form available on the Park Ridge Rotary club website, https://portal.clubrunner.ca/2088 scroll down to Rotary Forms, select form labeled “2023Rotary35th annual fruit sale flyer,” and click on the flyer image to print the order form. Payment by check only: make payable to Park Ridge Rotary Club. Mail to Park Ridge Rotary Club, P.O. Box 265, Park Ridge, NJ 07656 .

For other options or questions call “Bernie” at (201) 391-4249 The cut-off date on orders is Friday, Nov. 24. Fruit arrives for pickup Saturday, Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon at a new location: Montvale Landscaping, 53 Craig Road, Montvale All proceeds from Park Ridge Rotary 35th annual fruit sale will support Gift of Life, local high school scholarship program, alleviating food insecurities in community, and other service projects

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DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

ASK THE APPRAISER!

Walter Farndon painting a breath of plein air

Good morning, Jon. Hoping you can shed some light on this painting we inherited over 50 years ago. It was given to us by BY JON FELZ an elderly R.Z.M. FINE ARTS & neighbor when ANTIQUES INC. we lived in New Hampshire back in the 1960's. I remember him telling my wife that the painting had been in his family. I have tried to make out the name on it but was unable. I have always enjoyed looking at it with all the nice colors. Itʼs 18 inches by 14 inches. — Joe in Park Ridge

4Senior appraiser Jon Felz of R.Z.M. Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. answers your questions on fine art, American coins, and great antiques. Send your questions and photos to rzmantique@aol.com

Hi, Joe! The painting in question was executed by the Important listed New York artist Walter Farndon (1876–1964). The painting depicts a harbor scene at low tide, probably in Rockport, Mass. This artist was a prolific plein-air painter, active from the 1890s through the 1950s. He was born in England. When he was young his family moved to America, settling in Yonkers, N.Y.

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“The market for this style of painting is quite strong and this particular artist’s work is highly sought by collectors. I’m delighted to inform you that your Walter Farndon oil painting is worth $5,000.” Throughout his long career Farndon primarily painted along the Eastern Seaboard, from New Jersey to Nova Scotia in a bold yet intimate style. He captured some of Americaʼs most dramatic scenery. Farndonʼs work is featured at many prominent galleries and

institutions including the Brooklyn Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago and the National Academy of Design. In addition, Farndon was a member of the National Arts Club and the Salmagundi Club in New York City. An active member of the Salmagundi Club, I am privi-

leged to enjoy his paintings whenever Iʼm there. Walter Farndon lived and painted in an era of passionate and often controversial changes within the art world. Yet he managed to retain the simple and essential pleasure of looking at creation. I have been told he was called the artistʼs artist in New York art circles at the time. Particularly from his fellow artists at the Salmagundi Club. The market for this style of painting is quite strong and this particular artistʼs work is highly sought by collectors. Iʼm delighted to inform you that your Walter Farndon oil painting is worth $5,000. If I may close with a quote from this artist: “The principal payment for an artist is not money, but the personal satisfaction of creating beauty (as personally seen and felt) and giving to others some of the pleasure you have experienced in the producing.” R.Z.M. Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. is based at 132 Dexter Ave., Pearl River, N.Y. Call (845) 735-1313 or visit rzmantiques.com

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Hall was a member of the first borough council. Construction on the new chapel began in the summer of 1873. The whole project, including the land, cost $1,000—a sum equivalent to about $25,000 in todayʼs money. There is no record of construction work or the builders, although they were no doubt from local families and experienced craftsmen. Over the course of several months a chapel took shape, a lone structure in a vast field that would one day be a fully developed residential street. Dedication day was Dec. 8, 1873. The keynote speaker on that Monday morning was Henry Ward Beecher, the most renowned preacher in America. From the beginning of his pastoral career, Beecher used his pulpit and pen to preach about social issues. He advocated for womenʼs rights, including education and the right to vote, and was a vehement abolitionist. He captivated audiences and was known for his “Beecherisms”—witty and insightful quotations—that peppered his work. The Beecher family was teeming with intelligent, educated, and determined people, all fighting for social change in their own way. The most famous of these was Henry Ward Beecherʼs sister, author and abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe, who wrote the novel “Uncle Tomʼs Cabin.” Beecher and his Plymouth Church provided gifts to the new chapel at Park Ridge, including a cottage organ, which is in the museumʼs Victorian parlor, and the church bell, which would later double as Park Ridgeʼs first fire alarm. To this day there is a small hole in the side of the museumʼs entryway, and this contains a brass

FROM PAGE 4

EMERSON

Emerson seniors meet Dec. 14; choir to perform

The Emerson Senior Citizensʼ monthly membership meeting is Thursday, Dec. 14 at noon at the clubhouse, 20 Palisade Ave. The Villano School Childrenʼs Choir will present a program of holiday music. Refreshments will be served.

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sleeve through which one of the bell ropes passes to the outside of the building. Long ago, this hole was created so that the alarm could be sounded even if the church was locked. It was in the Congregational Church that the communityʼs first lending library was started. A large, multi-doored wooden bookcase (which is in the museumʼs Ellen Berdais Lecture Hall) held a collection of almost 200 donated books. This library was open to all members of the Sunday school and became an incentive to attend. In this era long before 20th century diversions like movies, television, and radio, the regionʼs young people heartily seized this opportunity to borrow and read all sorts of

PARK RIDGE

PKRG-TV holiday lights contest

PKRG-TV is pleased to announce its 15th Annual Holiday Lights Contest and program. Subject to eligibility, Park Ridge residents can enter at pkrgtv.com. (Enter by 9 p.m. on Dec. 15.) Winners will be announced at 8 p.m. on Dec. 24 on PKRG-TV. Optimum channel 77 Park Ridge, Verizon channel 22 in most of Bergen County.

books. Such a library was unheard of in a church at the time, and, in fact, it was controversial. Some of Pascackʼs old-time Jersey Dutch regarded the library as a public

menace for its “deleterious influence” on young minds. When a brutal murder took place in Park Ridge during a store robbery in December 1884, a local preacher, in denouncing the act from his pul-

pit, attributed the depravity to books. The preacher said the murdererʼs mind had no doubt been warped by the novels he read in boyhood—the same sort of tales

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Left to right, back to front: Assistant coaches Sean Powers, Brian Kass, and John Carvelli; head coach Eric Aiello; Matthew Carvelli, Anthony Riotto, Daniel Lee, Collin Fish, Dylan Kass, Liam Mueller, Finley Speidel, Collin Powers, John Powers, Marco Aiello, and Cooper Zodda. OUR MONTVALE Mustangs

13U followed up their spring and summer 2023 NEBAS 50/70 12U championships by capturing the fall 2023 NEBAS 60/90 13U title. The championship game was a rematch against rival—and top seed—Park Ridge, who Montvale beat, 1–0, in an epic summer brawl.

This one was another heavyweight bout, both teams battling every inning. Teams deadlocked at 4 in the top of the seventh, Matthew Carvelli stepped to the plate, bases loaded— and came through yet again, lining one into right field to bring Anthony Riotto home with the go-ahead run and Collin Powers with an insurance run on an overthrow.

The two-run lead was all Collin Fish needed, as he got the heart of the Owlsʼ order out 1-2-3 in the bottom of the seventh to secure the win, 6-4, Mustangs. The Mustangsʼ coaching staff tells Pascack Press, “This was a true full-team effort from a great group of Montvale boys.” — Sean Powers photo

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Raiders Coach Brogan told Pascack Press of the championship, “It was a nice accomplishment considering there are 16 teams in the league.” Games were six on six. There were two divisions of eight teams each. After the regular season, all teams made the playoffs. The winner of the North Division playoffs (the Raiders) played the winner of the South Division (Bengals). Brogan said the Raiders finished the season 10-1 including playoffs, and won their Division Championship, 22-0, against the

Chiefs. “Defense was the key to our success as shown by two shutouts to finish the season. We had seven shutouts during the season,” he said. He added, “We had great turnout of fans for Super Bowl including some school teachers. The school wished the team luck during the morning announcements.” Adding to the excitement of the day: “Younger sisters of the players and other friends from school were performing cheers on the sideline during the champi-

onship game, which was very cute.” Brogan said, “The boys took great pride in representing Park Ridge and each player contributed significantly to the teamʼs success.

It was inspiring to watch them work together and achieve their goals.” — John Snyder

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the Park Ridge Raiders—all from West Ridge Elementary—who on Nov. 20 beat the Bengals, 28–0, to win the Super Bowl as league champions in the 3rd/4th grade division of the Pascack Flag Football League, at Mark Lane Field in River Vale. Pascack Flag Football is open to boys and girls in grades 1–8. It offers a fun, fast-paced game that is open to kids of all skill levels. Games are played on Sunday mornings and Thursday nights in the Northern Bergen County area. ONGRATULATIONS TO

‘A Very Broadway Christmas’ with Ciarán Sheehan Dec. 19

Ciarán Sheehan, one the best known and most accomplished Irish-American tenors, and a group of artists with an extraordinary resume of Broadway and other musical accomplishments will return to Hillsdale on Tuesday, Dec. 19 in celebration of Christmas, marked by joy, love, faith and charity. “I am so excited to be returning to St. Johnʼs in Hillsdale, and to our wonderful audience in northern

New Jersey and southern parts of New York state. In fact, I know that during these past two years some traveled from as far as Pennsylvania to enjoy with us a wonderful evening of Christmas joy and music,” said Sheehan. “The artists who will perform with me are not only friends, but also very accomplished performers whom I admire. Craig Schulman is the only man to have played the three iconic Broadway roles of

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Ciarán Sheehan says, “We’ll be bringing the best of Broadway and Christmas to Saint John’s, and I can’t wait to see you all.”

“The Phantom,” Jean Valjean and Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde. Kaley Voorhees is the youngest actress to have ever played Christine in

“Phantom” on Broadway and has enjoyed success in the international tour and Broadway. “Weʼll also have world cham-

pion Irish fiddler Heather Bixler and our accompanist Broadway conductor Sue Anderson. Weʼll be bringing the best of Broadway and Christmas to Saint Johnʼs, and I canʼt wait to see you all.” Asked how the decision to once again organize this spectacular Christmas concert in one of the largest churches in our area came about, Msgr. Peter Smutelovic, pastor of Saint John the Baptist in Hillsdale, shares that “when people from the community and from some pretty faraway places began to enquire in the early days of September not ʻwill we have our Very Broadway Christmas Concert,ʼ but rather ʻwhen will it take place,ʼ I knew that our past Christmas Concerts have become truly memorable. So then the decision was not that difficult. I am very grateful to Ciarán and our Broadway friends, as well as to all in our community for their effort and dedication in making this extraordinary event possible.” Members of the Saint Johnʼs

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available at the chapel library! The lending library was not the only practice that riled traditionalists. The first secular observance of Christmas took place at the Congregational chapel, inspiring outrage from many who believed that a Christmas tree and the appearance of a real live Santa Claus were akin to paganism. Then there were the spring and fall celebrations, when the congregants had the nerve to conduct a festive meal right inside a house of worship. Finally, the music: the organ playing and hymns at this little chapel were so rousing and upbeat that they bordered on blasphemy. When the Van Riper bobbin factory near Mill Pond burned in the 1870s, its employees were left destitute and slum conditions prevailed in the nearby shacks on Mill

FROM PAGE 17

Road. While others in the community viewed their down-and-out neighbors with derision, the people of the congregational church stepped in, providing food, clothing, and odd jobs, hosting sewing circles to make garments for the children, and offering housekeeping classes to promote sanitary living conditions. By the 1940s the Park Ridge congregation had grown too large for the building, counting over 300 members from its original dozen 80 years earlier. The chapelʼs location, nestled between residential homes on Ridge Avenue, limited expansion. The church purchased land on Pascack Road opposite Ridge Avenue, and an original plan in the late 1940s called for the chapel to be picked up off its foundation and moved to the new site 1,000 feet down the hill, where it would form the nucleus of an expanded church campus. However, there were logistical problems in moving the building. They had to leave their beloved

1873 chapel behind and start building from the ground up at the Pascack Road site. The church is still going strong there today. The congregation put its former home up for sale, thus creating a perfect opportunity for the Pascack Historical Society, which had incorporated some 10 years earlier and was in need of a suitable space to exhibit a growing collection of artifacts. Through diligent fundraising, PHS members bought the property for $5,500 and opened Bergen Countyʼs first free-admission museum, Nov. 1, 1952. The Pascack Historical Society remains a place where all are welcome to visit and learn about the rich heritage that makes our Pascack Valley so special. Visit the museum on a Sunday afternoon from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is always free, and parents and grandparents are encouraged to bring children. In addition to thousands of artifacts that showcase Pascack Valley life as it was in previous

centuries, there is a special display full of items from the early days of the Congregational church. For more information, call (201) 573-0307, email info@pascackhistoricalsociety.org, and find the

Pascack Historical Society on Facebook. Kristin Beuscher is president of Pascack Historical Society.

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Welcome: H

Sc h ool News

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

15 IHA student-athletes sign letters of intent

Congratulations to 15 IHA student-athletes who officially signed to their colleges and universities on the afternoon of Nov. 16. The athletes who signed their National Letter of Intent are pictured from left to right:

Alexandra Kucharz ʼ24 (Boston University – lacrosse), Abigail Hoffman ʼ24 (Kenyon College – lacrosse), Carson Bielen ʼ24 (The University of North Carolina at Charlotte – lacrosse), Kalena Stavish ʼ24 (Salve Regina

These top student-athletes have a combined total of 29 league championships, 10 county championships, and 23 state titles, as well as several national and all-American recognition titles. IHA photo University – volleyball), Bryana nipiac University – golf), Abigail Stella Del Sordo ʼ24 (Muhlenberg Saenz ʼ24 (Arcadia University – Romero ʼ24 (Bucknell University – College – soccer), Alexandra volleyball), Angelina Escobinas track and field), Lindsay Probst Barry ʼ24 (Princeton University – ʼ24 (College of Mount Saint Vin- ʼ24 (Fordham University – soccer), soccer), and (not pictured) Gianna cent – basketball), Selena Cieszko Samantha McGee ʼ24 (Davidson DiMeglio ʼ24 (Siena College – ʼ24 (University of Scranton – bas- College – soccer), Caitlin Forshay softball). ketball), Marisa Flores ʼ24 (Quin- ʼ24 (Bryant University – soccer), Over their four years at IHA, these signees have accumulated more than 1,600 service hours combined and are members of the National Honor Society and national honor societies for science, history, math, art, and Spanish. These student-athletes also have a combined total of 29 league championships, 10 county championships, and 23 state titles, as well as several national and allAmerican recognition titles. Founded in 1960, Immaculate Heart Academy is an all-girls Catholic regional high school of the Archdiocese of Newark presently celebrating its 64th year.

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Voters:

Middle School,” said Lombardy. Lombardy explained: “We want to explore, with the guidance of bond counsel and our financial advisors, if bonding for more than 20 years is possible since there are elements (in each option) that involve new construction components. This may not be possible because the renovation component of George White is a significant component of any project the BOE moves forward with.” He added, “This (Jan. 11 forum date) will offer time to take the feedback from the previous two meetings, refine the plans, and offer accurate estimations from our financial advisors as we look toward a September 2024 referendum.” A public notice published Friday, Nov. 24 said the previously scheduled Dec, 6 special meeting was rescheduled to Jan. 11, 2024. The notice concluded, “Action will not be taken.” It did not provide a reason for the postponement. The first two public forums and slide presentations are posted on the district website homepage

FROM PAGE 1

for easy access and viewing by residents. In an effort to increase transparency, trustees recently began livestreaming school board meetings. After getting public input on the three renovation options, school trustees have said that they will vote, probably at the February 12, 2024 meeting, on what option to put on a September 2024 referendum for voter approval or denial. Lombardy said Nov. 1 that the district had to “recalibrate” annual taxpayer impacts—based on a 20 year bond term—because renovations require a 20-year bond while new construction allows for a longer 30-year bond term. He said then that they had only recently learned that the shorter bond term was required. He said that will increase annual taxpayer impacts on all three options. In mid-November, Lombardy told us there were no plans to release bond costs in advance of the next Jan. 11 forum. Prior to the districtʼs first $82.7 million middle school replacement referendum, some parents, taxpayers, and seniors complained that the district was not forthcoming with financial information, although the district

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did post extensive financial information on an easy-to-navigate Road To Referendum website. How much the average annual bond costs for taxpayers will increase, which previously ranged from $737, $815, and $905 annually under the three options, was not immediately known, said the superintendent and school board president. The three proposed renovation project costs are Option 1, $49.8 million, or $815 yearly/$68 monthly; Option 2, $55.2 million, or $905 yearly/$75.50 monthly; and Option 3, $45.6 million, $737 yearly/$61.50 monthly. (See “School options range $45M to $55M: Pick due by February,” Michael Olohan, Oct. 16, 2023, Pascack Press online). Officials said the overall renovation cost for each option will not increase. However, the annual taxpayer impacts will increase over a 20-year bond instead of a 30-year bond, which trustees had not planned for. Under questioning from an audience member Nov. 1, Lombardy estimated that the monthly costs might increase $15 to $20 monthly under a 20-year bond. However another audience member suggested that the costs could be much higher, noting bond payments will be spread out over 240 monthly payments, not 360 monthly payments. All three options include a full renovation at the middle school, Options 2 & 3 include enhanced programming space for STEM classes; Options 1 & 2 move fifth graders back to their respective elementary schools, either Meadowbrook or Smith, plus construct an addition at each school; and Option 3 keeps fifth graders at George White Middle School. A full renovation includes windows, doors, HVAC, roofing, all rooms, asbestos abatement,

new multi-purpose room, new music classroom/stage, kitchen, storage, and added restrooms. Its previous estimated cost was $563 yearly for the average taxpayer. The complete Oct. 5 public meeting video and slide show presentation, including floor plan layouts for each option and estimated costs based on a 30-year bond, are on the district website homepage for residents to view. Also, a videographer was present Nov. 1 and that video will likely be posted online soon. Some residents in the six breakout subgroups reportedly said they did not understand the options as presented, questioned the missing cost for the shortened 20-year bond, and wanted to have input to final wording on the public question before the board votes on and eventually submits the referendum question to the state education department for approval. Officials stressed that should a referendum question pass in September 2024, bonding was likely to occur sometime in 2025, and interest rates then would also play a role in bonding costs. School trustees have repeatedly stressed something must be done about the century-old, out-of-date and deteriorating middle school. Board President Nicole Klas told Pascack Press after the meeting that the board was only recently told they needed to bond for 20 years, versus the 30-year time period that they had planned to bond. However, she said the board was told that renovation bonds are different from new construction bonds. The March 14, 2023 school bond referendum, which was estimated to raise average annual taxes by $95 monthly, or about $1,200 yearly, was defeated in all six polling districts by voters. Nearly 37 percent of registered voters cast ballots in March.

During the June 1 public forum after the middle school referendumʼs March defeat, many residents criticized the high $82.7 million cost for a total replacement, and made suggestions to reduce costs and improve studentsʼ education, including moving fifth grades back to elementary schools.

A two- or three-part question? In addition to increased taxpayer costs, Lombardy said the district was considering a possible overall public question and possibly one or two additional questions on that option that would offer voters a choice to add to it. Lombardy provided an example of a two- or three-question referendum. He said, for instance, if Option 3 was chosen, Public Question 1 might only obligate bond funds to fully renovate George White. He said a possible Question 2 would encompass money to build a new wing to house students for projected enrollment and enhanced (STEM) programming. That way voters could vote on renovating the basic middle school, and then add more improvements if so desired. He said if Option 2 were chosen, where fifth graders are sent back to their elementary schools, Public Question 1 might encompass fully renovating George White. He said Question 2 might involve building at other sites. Each referendum question would include information on bond costs and tax impacts, officials said. Lombardy said if a voter answers yes to the first question, they then go on to vote on a second question. If they answer no on the first question, then their vote is complete. “Thatʼs a consideration to CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

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more earlier this year. Officials did not give a timeline for the project. Several residents questioned the cost of the police complex, which had increased from estimates of $7 million four years ago, to about $14 million, to nearly $20 million in late 2023. (Check out Pascack Press coverage by searching Public Safety Complex on the Pascack Press website.) After approving bonding for $13.3 million to finance the complex, and following the first round of bids that ranged $15.5 million to $16 million which were rejected, the council approved another $6 million in bonds to cover construction costs, bond down payment, and so-called soft costs: engineering, architect design, legal costs, furniture, and electronics and digital communications equipment. Officials noted that there was also a contingency clause in the bid in case of project change orders or unanticipated changes, although they did not state an amount or percentage. The second round of five bids ranged between the low bidder (Dobco) and a top bidder at $15,528,000, said administrator Gennaro Rotella after the meeting. He said the bids seemed slightly lower than the first round and all

FROM PAGE 1

River Vale Township hired Settembrino Architects to design the New Public Safety Complex. The materials proposed are a stone base veneer, horizontal composite siding, metal roofs, and craftsman style windows, columns, and pilasters. A lower sloped roof pitch creates a shorter building that is in context with its mostly 2-story residential neighbors. Settembrino

five bidders were within a $500,000 cost spread. “We need to do this project,” said Mayor Mark Bromberg, noting the police headquarters has been outdated for years, and previous councils have tried to get a new building. In total, the council has appropriated nearly $20 million in bonds for the new police complex, and officials stressed that the building must come in at or under that amount. Rotella told Pascack Press that the council had recently bonded for $10 million over a 40-year term— of the $20 million approved—and

previously said the bonds would add an annual $200 tax increase on the average $592,000 home. When officials go to bond on a second bond issue, said Rotella, those costs will be added to the $200 annual taxpayer impact. Rotella previously said that architect Settembrino Architects told him construction prices had increased 8% per year or more in the last 24 months, noting “Everything across the board has been going up,” including materials, labor and contingency costs. Of five residents at the Nov. 27 meeting, three questioned the council about the progressively

increasing Public Safety Complex costs, “Itʼs not the Taj Mahal, itʼs a regular police safety complex,” noted Sieg, when one resident kept pressing about the increased costs. She said the police building is “minimal” noting officials would try not to go over $20 million. She said tax impacts affect council members, who also pay taxes. She said the costs were “in line” with what officials were expecting. “So nobody wants to pay more taxes but this is a building that needs to be done,” said Sieg, noting most residents agree that a new police department is needed. “In

time, and the more we waste time, the more expensive itʼs going to get,” she added. She said though $20 million in bonds was approved “doesnʼt necessarily mean weʼre going to spend that.” She said a new police building has to accommodate many state and federal rules and regulations. She said information has been provided to the community about costs and designs for a new Public Safety Complex, despite several residentsʼ complaints about a lack of transparency. When a Rolling Hill Drive resident called for an additional public meeting with a full presentation on the new Public Safety Complex, Sieg said, “Itʼs called a council meeting. Thatʼs what weʼre doing here.” The resident noted that while he received an email about the local farmersʼ market, he never received a township email that $20 million was being spent on a new police complex, or that a $15 million bid was to be approved that day. Pascack Press first noted the nearly $15 million bid award resolution for the Public Safety Complex when the Nov. 27 meeting agenda was posted online at 9:17 a.m. on Nov. 27., approximately 10 hours prior to the meeting. Many Pascack Valley towns post meeting agendas online 48 to 72 hours in advance of public meetings, although the state Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

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or call 201-261-2150 to set up an improve your well-being without appointment for a complete neurologi- harmful medications or risky surgeries. cal evaluation. It is usually $500 but if We believe that the body has the potenyou mention this article, the first seven tial to heal itself as long as we can get people who sign up can get the entire rid of any interference. For more helpevaluation for $21. This includes test- ful information, please tune in to my ing reflexes, bone alignment, posture, radio show “Boost Your Brain Power” the brain, the eyes, the ears, range of on AM 970 Saturdays from 8 to 9 a.m. motion, muscle strength, flexibility, the I can also be heard every Saturday on heart, the gut, the balance, the memory, AM 710 WOR from 2 to 3 p.m. Subscribe to my YouTube Chanand other examinations. At Kaplan Brain & Body, we pride ourselves in nel, Facebook page, and Instagram, getting to the root cause of the health which are all called Kaplan Brain & problem rather than just treating symp- Body. Function Better, Feel Better, Live toms. We also promote natural ways to Better.

energy during the day, and helps to get you in a more relaxed state during the night so you can get the deep sleep you need to function properly. Combine sunlight and exercise together with positive brain activities like jogging, bike riding, playing sports, going for a nice stroll with your family, gardening, tai chi, yoga, dancing, or taking the dog out for a run. If you or someone you know is interested in learning about how to naturally boost your brain power, improve memory, focus, motivation, sleep, digestion, as well as increase WESTWOOD energy and vitality without drugs, surgery, injections, supplements, or herbs, email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com

Christmas benefit concert Dec. 16

Parkside Community Church is once again producing a concert event certain to please all ages and musical tastes. On Dec. 16 at 7 p.m., fresh from Westwood Goes Broadway in June, several of the performers are returning to the stage to sing both traditional and contemporary holiday favorites. Director Lisa Bontemps says “The level of talent we have put together for this concert is beyond compare. Each singer has extensive professional experience in theater and concert arenas. This concert will feature some amazing solos on songs like O Holy Night and Christmas Lullabye, but we also have a fantastic array of delightful duet and ensemble performances to share.” The cast is Christopher Doran, Julie Galorenzo, Shane Long, Mary Kate Portera, and Jonathan Krouse. Immediately following the

concert, attendees are invited to enjoy refreshments and mingle to further enjoy the holiday spirit. Itʼs free but the church asks a $10 donation per person for Connex4NPO, a nonprofit corporation that rescues food for the food pantries at Parkside Community Church, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, and Westwood United Methodist Church, as well as several other pantries throughout the county. “Our partners at Connex4NPO are the lifeblood of our food distribution events,” says Bontemps, who is the food pantry coordinator at Parkside. “It would be impossible for us to serve the more than 200 clients that come to our pantries without the work they do to rescue food from donors like Stop and Shop, Community Food Bank and more.” Reserve tickets at http://parksidechurch.net. More information? Email pccwestwood@gmail.com.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Knights’ Christmas party Dec. 10

Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 hosts its annual Christmas Party for members and guests in the community on Sunday, Dec. 10, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Knights Hall, 79 Pascack Road. The council has invited guests of Spectrum for Living, a not-for-profit organization that helps adults with developmental disabilities via quality housing and clinical services in state-ofthe-art facilities and in the homes of families caring for a disabled loved one. K of C members and guests interested in sharing the spirit of Christmas or in experiencing firsthand this Catholic, family-oriented fraternal service organization are invited to drop by for a fun afternoon. Children are required

to bring their parents and parents are encouraged to bring their children. Special events include a visit by Santa, Christmas caroling by members of the Pro Arte Chorale, and service dogs and their trainers. Santa and his helpers will distribute gifts for the boys and girls who come. If parents wish Santa to give an additional gift to their children, it is requested that it be wrapped, inexpensive, and clearly labeled with the childʼs full name before being placed beneath the Christmas tree. The hall will be decorated for the occasion. The log fireplaces will be ablaze to add to the atmosphere of the occasion and light refreshments will be served. For more information call (201) 6640422, or visit kofc5427.com.

Winter Wonderland, Let it GLOW! return for family fun

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and the Bergen County Board of Commissioners announce that Van Saun County Park in Paramus is once again Northern New Jerseyʼs premier destination for winter family fun with two unique holiday attractions. Starting on Friday, Nov. 24 at 4 p.m., Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland, presented by Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, is set to make its triumphant return to Van Saun County Park with open air ice skating, ice bumper cars, a heated hospitality tent, games, activities, food trucks, an indoor/outdoor beer and wine garden, live holiday music, and rides on the iconic carousel. From the giant 30-foot centerpiece Christmas tree to the festive decorations throughout, fam-

Broadway: community agree. “I am so excited St. John the Baptist is bringing the Christmas Concert back. What a great way for our community to celebrate this special time of year. The talent of the performers is incomparable. A not to be missed show,” said Marie Rocco, a longtime resident of Hillsdale. Bill Filon from River Vale highlights that “the Christmas Concert is a way to bring our community together in spirit, song and love as we celebrate this blessed and joyful season.” A native of Dublin, Ireland, Sheehan played the role of The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway and in Toronto for more than 1,000 performances. He has also appeared on Broadway in “Les Misérables” and in the role of Raoul in “The Phantom of the Opera.” His other New York stage performances include numerous appearances with The Irish Repertory Theatre Company, Tom in Grandchild of Kings, Shaughnessy in The Hostage, Ciarán in The Irish…and How They Got That Way. As producer, Sheehan created the sold-out productions of “The Molly Maguires” directed by Tony Award-nominated director Sheryl Kaller at the FM Kirby Center in Wilkes-Barre, Penn., in which he also starred. He has three PBS specials to his credit – “The Irish…and How They Got That Way,” “From Galway to Broadway,” and “Ciarán and Friends. “As a solo artist he has sold out Carnegie Hall four times and The National Concert Hall in Dublin, Ireland. Smutelovic said. “We know that our Christmas Concert on Dec. 19 will be even bigger and better

FROM PAGE 20

ilies will have the chance to be transported to a winter paradise this holiday season right here in Bergen County. Bergen Countyʼs Winter Wonderland Hours of Operation and Upcoming Events Nov. 24–Jan. 1, 2024. Hours of operation are Fridays, 4 to 9 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sundays, 11 a.m. 7 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, the ice rink is open for skating from 3 to 9 p.m. Winter Wonderland has adjusted hours on Christmas Eve and New Yearʼs Eve and operates 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. From Dec. 26–Jan. 1, 2024, Winter Wonderland will operate 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Winter Wonderland is closed on Christmas. For more information, including prices, visit BergenCountyWinterWonderland.com

than those in the past two years. Certainly, we will enjoy spectacular performances by Ciarán and our Broadway friends. And, a true reward for all our effort and our communityʼs sacrifices will come when we will hear during the postconcert days leading up to Christmas that “the concert has wonderfully set us up for the joy and celebration of Christmas,” and many weeks into the new year hear in our community that “the entire experience was once again unforgettabl.”. For information regarding the limited amount of tickets still available, visit https://christmasconcert.stjohnhillsdale.org or call Saint John the Baptist offices at (201) 664-3131 Monday—Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Upcoming events • Friday, Nov. 24, 4 p.m. Winter Wonderland opens; • Saturday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m. Winter Wonderland Tree Lighting; • Saturday, Dec. 9, 6 p.m.

Winter Wonderland Menorah Lighting; and • Wednesday, Dec. 27, 6 p.m. Winter Wonderland Kinara Lighting.

Learn more! For much more information from the county visit friendsofbergencountyzoo.org and bergencountywinterwonderland.com/learnto-play-hockey.

HILLSDALE

AHA’s Kate Hurst to swim for UT–Austin

Swimming star Kate Hurst of Hillsdale inked her letter of intent to continue her athletic career at the University of Texas at Austin. Hurst is a senior at the Academy of the Holy Angels, which hosted the National Signing Day ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 8. Her parents, Jayne and Justin Hurst, attended along with several classmates and Academy officials. Hurst is the reigning junior world champion in the 1500meter freestyle. Over the summer of 2023, she traveled to Netanaya, Israel, to participate in the Junior World Swimming Championships. She tested her skills against the worldʼs top athletes in the age 18 and under category and emerged from her event with a gold medal. Hurst began swimming at the age of seven. She trains with Scarlet Aquatics, a Bergen County-based club. “One of my favorite parts about the sport is the team aspect,” Hurst said in a recent interview. “The people I swim with are some of my closest friends, and I love training and racing with such amazing and motivated athletes. I am excited

to continue this experience at the collegiate level next year.”

Happy Holidays!

Hurst is reigning junior world champion in the 1500-meter freestyle.

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

Patients trust the Vein Center of Oradell

There are vein specialists, and there are vascular surgeons. Luckily for his patients, James W. Geuder, M.D., is both. Dr. Geuder is a board-certified vascular surgeon specializing in varicose veins, venous disorders, spider vein treatment, and circulation disorders. He has practiced vascular surgery in Bergen County for 25 years. Dr. Geuder is an attending surgeon at Hackensack University Medical Center and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has been consistently selected as a “Top Doctor” by Castle Connolly, a “Best Doctor” by New York Magazine, and a Patients Choice and Most Compassionate Doctor by PatientsChoice.com.

When you call the Vein Center of Oradell, a professional will always answer your call and be happy to assist you. We work hard to provide a comfortable, friendly environment at the Vein

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

Dr. Geuder is a board-certified vascular surgeon specializing in varicose veins, venous disorders, spider vein treatment, and circulation disorders

Center of Oradell. We have an ICAVL-approved vascular lab that allows for immediate testing with an accurate diagnosis. An important role as your doctor is to educate you about your condition and treatment options. It is important to understand what is wrong and what should be done. Most vein procedures can be performed in the office and with local anesthesia, if necessary. Dr. Geuder also treats patients at Hackensack University Medical

Center and outpatient surgery centers if anesthesia or more involved procedures are necessary. “Many people tolerate varicose veins in spite of their discomfort and appearance,” said Dr. Geuder. “The thought of vein stripping, anesthesia and recovery may seem worse than the problem. Thanks to modern, noninvasive treatments – such as laser or VNUS closure – that is no longer the case. Patients have their treatments in the office under local anesthesia and return

to normal activity afterward. It is very gratifying to see patientsʼ symptoms and veins disappear after a minor office procedure.” For more information on Dr. Geuder and the Vein Center of Oradell, visit veincenteroforadell.com or call — we answer the phone! No recording. Connect today Vein Center Of Oradell, 680 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 306, Oradell. (201) 262-VEIN (8346).

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CONSIDER THESE THREE SUGGESTIONS IF YOU INHERIT A TRUST

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ask questions before taking distributions “Before taking a trust distribution, some beneficiaries find it useful to inquire about the potential tax consequences. Thatʼs where a tax advisor should provide guidance,” Esparza says. “Beneficiaries also may consid-

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

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help find a way to give our voters additional input on the process while recognizing that the costs are high,” Lombardy said. First, officials said, they must determine which of the three options appears to have the most residentsʼ support. Then the school board must take a public vote—most likely in February 2024—on what option should be put forth as a referendum question. Most residents appeared to favor a multi-part public question on the referendum, based on opinions expressed in subgroups. Some suggested that whether to build an artificial turf field should be added as a question. Based on anecdotal reports back from subgroups, composed of parents, residents, and seniors, it appeared Option 3, the lowest cost option with the least impact on taxes, was favored by most, although Option 2, the most expensive, was also supported by some. At the Oct. 5 public forum, it

FROM PAGE 24

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appeared more residents favored the lower-cost renovation, or Option 3, ($45.6 million) which included a full renovation, new construction for enhanced programming (STEM courses) and additional classrooms. Several residents observed that theyʼd rather see the lowest cost renovation option put up for a vote—and hopefully be approved—rather than a higher cost option be on the ballot and go down to defeat. Some noted the nearly 2-to-1 defeat of Marchʼs referendum to replace the aging middle school via an $82.7 million referendum that cost $1,200 annually for the average taxpayer. “We need work to get done here. We need something to pass. Again, we would like to have renovations and additions,” said Board President Nicole Klas, noting that breaking an option down into one or two additional questions gives voters input on what improvements will be funded. Some residents expressed concern about fifth through eighth grade students being housed in trailers for 18-24 months, although Lombardy said there was no alternative to trailers, or tempo-

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rary classrooms, during renovations. One resident wondered what impacts might be on children being housed in trailers during renovations. Lombardy previously mentioned trailers will cost about $3 to $4 million during renovations, and the “Cost Constants With Each Plan” chart estimates a $40 annual charge for trailers, or $3.34 monthly. Those costs will rise due to the shorter 20-year bond term. He said should Option 1 or Option 2 be selected as a referendum question, which would send fifth graders back to elementary

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schools and require new additions at each school, he noted neither school would require trailers as most construction would be done outside. Board Vice President Sal Sileo said the district hopes to get middle school renovations done via the upcoming referendum. “We have a greater opportunity to get something accomplished if itʼs not all or nothing,” he said of a possible multi-question referendum ballot. Klas said residents will be made aware of bond costs and what potential question is being

considered for the referendum before any final decisions are made by trustees. Klas reminded attendees that the board has been discussing middle school renovations since 2019. In early 2021, the River Vale School District proposed a threepart referendum question to voters, with two of three public questions being approved on a $35.7 million referendum. (See “District makes its pitch on $35.7M facilities referendum,” Michael Olohan, March 29, 2021, Pascack Press Online.)

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Washington Avenue from the exit 168 ramp. The council agreed in December 2021 that additional traffic safety measures need to be considered at the Van EmburghWashington Avenue intersection, served currently by a blinking warning light. No mention was made of the intersection. With two major housing developments approved and planned along Van Emburgh Avenue—a 66-unit townhome and single family subdivision and a 44-unit apartment rental complex —former council member and

FROM PAGE 3

mayoral candidate Michael DeSena (now councilmember-elect) previously suggested that the new developments “should all share” in contributing to an intersection improvements and traffic signal upgrade. Another eight-home luxury subdivision is planned off of Gorga Place, which intersects with Washington Avenue.

year.) The drone study, posted on the township website, noted that the severely eroded stream banks around two sanitary manholes required immediate attention to prevent contamination of the stream by fecal wastes as well as possible infiltration of a sanitary line by the brook. DiCarlo said the restoration of the stream bank areas also involved engineering designs for sediment shoal removal in another brook area, and the removed sediment will be used to restore the two stream banks. In his November report, Mayor Peter Calamari noted that two poles will be installed on Pascack Road to hang banners to advertise events going on in town. He said PSE&G recently changed its poles on Pascack Road, and the town is unable to hang banners from them.

Brookʼs bank restoration efforts DiCarlo also said Boswell was working on a design for the restoration of two critical stream banks along Musquapsink Brook with exposed sanitary manholes. (These critical sanitary issues were detailed in a drone study of the brook released earlier this

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Tributary piping Township officials may decide to look into the future of an unnamed tributary that runs behind about five homes on Meisten Street at their upcoming Dec. 4 council meeting, after a second, less expensive proposal was recently presented to them. The Council took no action Nov. 8 on a lower-priced proposal of approximately $154,000 to pipe

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an unnamed tributary that flows into the Musquapsink Brook and runs behind about five homes on Meisten Street. DiCarlo said he wanted to present the lower cost option to council to see if they wanted to move forward and maybe include it as a capital request in the 2024 budget. The tributary was found not to be a Category One or protected waterway by Boswell Engineering, the townshipʼs engineer, although it flows into a protected waterway, Musquapsink Brook, which eventually flows into Oradell Reservoir. Earlier this fall, Boswell Engineering had presented proposals for piping the tributary behind Meisten Street homes ranging from $300,000 to $400,000, and no council action was taken. Following a Boswell study this spring, the engineer determined the unnamed tributary, previously thought to be a Category One, or protected waterway, was not a regulated waterway because it did not drain an area of 50 acres as required, instead only draining an area of about 49 acres. Several residents, including Meisten Street resident Michael Agnello, disagreed with Boswellʼs finding, as well as an engineer from Emerson, who questioned

the consultantʼs conclusion. Had the waterway been deemed a protected waterway, it was likely to be a factor in evaluating possible impacts to it from a proposed nearby 17,100square-foot retail development. However, that development was not approved. (The retail proposal was denied by the Zoning Board and the applicant recently filed a complaint in Superior Court to appeal the decision.) DiCarlo said he secured an estimate from Matina & Son, Inc., Hackensack, of $154,485, which was below prior Boswell Engineering estimates. Recently, Matina & Son was approved for a $469,500 contract by council to complete improvements on the commuter parking lot adjacent to the emergency services building. He said additional costs for the piping proposal would include approximately 10% to 20% more for engineering costs, plus legal fees to establish easements on the properties. DiCarlo said since Matina & Son were doing work in the area, he reached out for a more specific estimate from them. There was no discussion on the proposal. Your turn! See our Letters policy on page 2 and sound off!

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On Saturday, Dec. 2 after the Home for the Holidays parade and tree lighting ceremony, walk over to the Community Center and enjoy a special concert by a 17 piece jazz band. The group, led by Tom Offerjost, is reminiscent of the big bands that were so popular in the 1930s and ʼ40s led by Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and Duke Ellington. Offerjost says, “Almost every high school, college and many community bands have their own jazz bands, with the standard instrumentation of five saxes, four trumpets, four trombones, piano, guitar, bass and drums. These groups provide an opportunity for all the musicians to play in the jazz, or ʻswingʼ style, and many feature a variety of jazz soloists within their groups.” Offerjost says “The after party starts at 8 p.m. and weʼll be playing some great Big Band arrange-

ments of your favorite holiday (and non-holiday) tunes: some swing, some ballads, and even a little rock. “Inside the Community Center, things are warm and dry, chairs are provided, as are hot chocolate, soda, snacks and cookies.” The Community Band is a group of 40 adult volunteer musicians of varying ages and experiences who have played summer concerts on the nandstand in Veterans Memorial Park since 2001. For more information, visit the band on Facebook and email wwcommunityband@optonline.net.

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

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only requires 48-hour advance written notice of meetings, or public posting of written agendas 48 hours in advance of a meeting. OPMA is a nearly 50-year-old state law; efforts to update the law have met resistance from municipal clerks statewide. Resident David Rice wondered why most township residents “know nothing” about the new Public Safety Complex soon to be built in town. He said Park Ridge was letting residents know about projects on its website such as dredging, and questioned extra costs needed on the new police facility project. When resident Karla Norfleet asked why the residents did not have an opportunity to vote in a referendum on the $20 million project, Bromberg said he was “sorry that it seems to becoming as somewhat of a surprise to some people” and said that the council does not

An immense mausoleum of white marble, built in Agra between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage. — UNESCO

FROM PAGE 26

hold a public referendum on every issue that comes before the council. He said the council did need “to go back to the drawing board on this” but that the council has discussed the need for a new police complex at many meetings over the years. Township Attorney Silvana Raso said that municipalities are not required to put public matters, including large expenditures and tax increases, to a public referendum before voting on such matters. Ben-Yishay said the township had “absolutely no choice whatsoever” but to build a new police facility due to its lack of proper

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F/T Temporary Seasonal Laborer – Hillsdale DPW. Department of Public Works is seeking individuals to assist with maintenance & leaf collection. No experience is necessary. Pays up to $18 per hour. Responsibilities include park maintenance, emptying garbage cans, litter removal, raking & blowing leaves and performing other manual labor duties. NJ driver’s license is required. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.

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facilities and not meeting federal standards, adding “you donʼt put a decision that has to be made up for a vote.” He added, “We all want to do

the cheapest option possible, the cheapest option possible is an expensive option that none of us are happy about, but itʼs not discretionary. We have no choice.” He said the current police station does not meet code and needs to be updated. “We have no choice, we had to do it,” he said, noting he was “very sympathetic” to taxpayers about increased taxes. Rice suggested that officials consider combining police departments with another Pascack Valley town—similar to the combined River Vale–Montvale DPW—to reduce costs and taxes. He said

PARK RIDGE

PARK RIDGE POLICE RESERVE SEEKS OFFICERS

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

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

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HELP WANTED ADMIN/OFFICE MANAGER WESTWOOD This is a year-round position. General Duties: Answering the phone, Ordering supplies, Invoicing, Bank deposits, Data entry. Bookkeeping skills are a must (knowledge of QuickBooks or Sage 50)! Bookkeeping duties include: Expense reports, Processing payments, Billing, Payroll entry.This Job Is Ideal for someone who Is: Dependable (more reliable than spontaneous), Peopleoriented (enjoys interacting with people and working on group projects), Adaptable/flexible (enjoys doing work that requires frequent shifts in direction), Detail oriented (would rather focus on the details of work than the bigger picture), Achievement-oriented (enjoys taking on challenges, even if they might fail) Autonomous/Independent (enjoys working with little direction), Innovative (prefers working in unconventional ways or on tasks that require creativity). Call 551-404-4359.

police departments in each town were “just redundant.” Bromberg said decades ago, the township considered a combined or regionalized police force, which caused “probably more of a stir than the deer and affordable housing issues combined.” He said most local taxpayers were “very happy, pleased and thrilled” with local officers patrolling the township. He said the shared DPW service with Montvale “was much more feasible” and that police regionalization “was hotly debated and definitely turned down by this township a couple of decades ago.”

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With time running out in the game, senior WR Tommy Bussanich snags a 6-yard pass from senior QB Robbie Carcich to makes the score Rumson–Fair Haven 14, Westwood 13. Then junior PK Sean Morrison takes the field with 5 seconds remaining and thumps in the extra point, sending the game into overtime. This is the result of a 99yard drive that was set up when Rumson-Fair Haven decide to go for it on 4th and goal from the Westwood 1-yard line and the Cardinals stop them. In the extra session, the Bulldogs score first on a 2-yard run by senior Jackson Gallagher. Cardinal Aidan Dugan blocks the extra point attempt by senior PK Ryan Child, giving Rumson–Fair Haven a 20-14 lead. This gives Westwood one shot to win. Carcich, again, hits Bussanich, this time on a 14-yard pass in the middle of the end zone. The scoreʼs tied, 20-20. Morrison, in position—the kick—and he splits the uprights—to give the Cardinals the narrow 21-20 win. For good measure, as the Cardinal crowd exults, in the stands and here at home, the momentʼs married to the sound of a freight train roaring into history. “We thought we were going to score,” Bulldog head coach Jeremy Schulte later tells the Asbury Park Press of the decision to not kick a field goal. “Itʼs the little plays, they made more of those plays than we did. They deserve it.” He adds of the Cardinals, “Thereʼs a reason theyʼre in this game, thereʼs a reason theyʼre undefeated, theyʼre a hell of a football team.”

FROM PAGE 1

By the numbers For Westwood, Robbie Carcich led in both passing and rushing yards. Passing, he was 16-20, 145 yards, 2 TDs. Rushing, he had 22 carries for 77 yards. Aidan Dugan had 14 carries for 40 yards, TD. Tommy Bussanich had seven receptions for 72 yards, 2 TDs. Senior WR Joe Klein, caught five passes for 55 yards. Besides the two big extra point makes (he had three total), Sean Morrison had one reception for 13 yards. On the defensive side, the leading tackler was sophomore DB Steven Klein, with 13. Junior DB, Michael Rinaldi, claimed an interception. This is Westwoodʼs 1st Group 2 State Championship, and only the second year that the NJSIAA has crowned a true state champion. The Cardinals lost last year to Caldwell High in the state semifinal. Caldwell beat Rumson–Fair Haven in the state final to emerge as the first true Group 2 State Champion. With this electrifying win, Westwood is the Bergen County Team of the Year; Bobby Guy, in

Congrats to the 13-0 undefeated Westwood Cardinals for their win, 21-20 in overtime, in the group 2 state football championship over the Rumson–Fair Haven Bulldogs at Rutgers in Piscataway, Nov. 27, 2023. Below, the 2023 varsity roster via cardinalstdclub.org on Nov. 29.

The players, the cheerleaders, the staff, the band, all get a heroʼs welcome home, a taste of the parade to come. Township mayor Peter Calamari posts his congrats, and Westwood mayor Ray Arroyo, delighted by the win, also supposes Uncle Mattʼs voice by now is shot. County officials, state Sen. Holly Schepisi, all congratulate the Cardinal machine. Westwood police chief Michael Pontillo, president of the Westwood Regional School District Board of Education, calls it on behalf of the department: “Congratulations to the Westwood Regional High School Cardinals Football Team with their 21-20 victory over Rumson. “This game was a test of these young menʼs skills. They played with heart, determination, and an unmatched level of grit, even in the face of adversity. They showed the true meaning of the phrase never give up. “Congrats for bringing the championship home and congratulations to all those who make these events so special… from the marching band, to the cheerleaders (never did a block that kick cheer mean so much, especially

when they did in fact, block that kick), the students (especially Dilly ~ WPD loved the energy, the helmet and the flag) to the teachers and staff, but most especially the coaches. The impact you made on these kidsʼ lives is immeasurable. Thank you for making your success the kidsʼ success! It was our pleasure bringing you back to a heroʼs welcome! Go Cards!” Credit also to: • Westwood Regional High School football staff: Head coach Bobby Guy; assistant/freshman HC Kris Izzo; assistants Peter Lesler, Derek Nelson, Tom OʼMelia, Amir Saadah, Ed Suri, Steve Baez, Chris Gibbons, Mike Bruno, and John Zisa; volunteer assistant Ian Borgersen. • Westwood Regional School District admin and staff: Superintendent of School Dr. Jill Mortimer; high school principal Frank Connelly; athletic director Daniel Vivino; administrative assistant Eileen OʼSullivan; athletic trainer Frank Armstrong; cheerleading coach Victoria Geimke; band director Dan Pena; color guard Eileen Nagle. — Stor y by John Snyder and Paul Sullivan

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Cardinals:

his first year as head coach, was named Bergen County Coach of the Year Tuesday night. He had been an assistant coach for eight years, and knows these young men and their families well. More takeaways are supplied by Westwoodʼs Anthony Greco, who just put a period to his coaching tenure with the Junior Cardinal football program, celebrated at Seasons: “Words canʼt describe what we witnessed tonight! It was an unbelievable game played by true gridiron warriors on both sides of the ball. “We were outnumbered almost 2 to 1—Rumson 80 +/kids rostered to Westwoodʼs 46 +/kids rostered. Giant kids to average-sized kids. Rumson with kids on only one side of the ball vs. Westwood with kids playing iron man football. “What prevailed is what you canʼt teach: fight, grit, a nevergive-up attitude giving 100% of yourself to your team—we are one, we play for each other mentality! Plus, pepper in that you have to have a huge set of church bells/coglionis! “The boys were down the first quarter by 7, then tying it up going into the half. Then go down again by 7 to tying it up with 10 seconds left in the fourth. OT starts, we go down again by 6 ʻcause Dugan blocks the extra point huge, we score and kick to become victorious! “Wow wow wow. Beyond proud of this football team being crowned Group 2 State Champs first time in Westwood history we are the one and only Group 2 true state champions!” Meanwhile, the Junior Cardinal football program posted a flashback to 2019, when the current high school seniors won the championship as Junior Cardinal eighth-graders. Their team that year also went undefeated: “Congrats again to the 2023 Group 2 state champs! We love to see our players rise up from our youth program and continue their careers as quality young men and football players! “Westwood shares the high school with Washington Township. In youth football, the two towns up until 2020 did compete as rivals, but as neighboring towns, these kids have had friendships through sports that date back years. “This outcome has long been the goal for the Cardinals. On Monday night, it happened.” Carcich says, “Weʼve been dreaming about this ever since we were little kids. We were watching in the stands not too long ago. It feels like it was yesterday. Little kids are running up to me saying, ʻWhatʼs up, Robbie.ʼ That used to be me. Itʼs a blessing to be here and Iʼm just trying to soak it all in. We did it. Weʼre state champs.” At home the townshipʼs new firehouse and ambulance corps HQ is lit in “champion mode,” dazzling red and white. And surely, somewhere above, the townshipʼs late beloved Cardinal booster and mentor Vito “Pal” Trause is ecstatic.

Westwood Regional High School Varsity Football QB #1 Robbie Carcich takes it himself at SHI Stadium on Nov. 27. It’s Cards, 21-20, in OT over Rumson–Fair Haven for the NJSIAA Group 2 State Championship. Westwood posts a school record 13-0 season. Westwood is Bergen County Team of the Year; Bobby Guy, in his first year as head coach, is Bergen County Coach of the Year. — Bill Hickey photos

DECEMBER 4, 2023 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS