Northern Valley Press 9.4.23

Carissa Liu, originally from Tenafly, is one of 10 college students tapped for the inaugural Television Academy Foundation Bob Bennett Future Leaders Program

SEE PAGE 21

HAWORTH

HAWORTH MAKES MUSIC, NEWFANS, AT JAM ’23

Memorial Field the place to be as talent of all ages delivers a midsummer groove

Several hundred folks turned out to enjoy beautiful weather and great music on Memorial Field at the boroughʼs annual A Midsummer Nightʼs Jam, Aug. 5 from 6 to 10 p.m.

The event showcased the talents of more than a dozen residents in selections of classical music, R&B, showtunes, rock, and more.

The audience included local families with young children, seniors, and teens, as well as visitors from other towns.

The jam, hosted by the Haworth Arts Committee — chairperson Claudia Gaard, Janet Cohen, Greg Holden, Dina Levinson and Magdalena Jordan — benefitted from Stephen Gaard as emcee.

The large stage and excellent acoustics provided by Sound Director David Lehner, assisted by Sandro Winand, gave the show a professional quality.

Carol Kenny, who has been playing and teaching piano and coaching voice for more than 30 years accompanied many of the performers, some of whom are her students.

See HAWORTHon page 26

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE RISING TO THE CHALLENGE

Old Tappanʼs Ariya Suwan a top U.S. junior diver

SEPTEMBER 2023

CLOSTER

TITANIUM KNIGHTS BRINGTHE STEAM TO CLOSTER

Academies robotics team inspires young fans via summer library presentation

This summer, the Closter Public Library became a gathering place for young tech standouts of all ages.

On Aug. 5, five members of the Titanium Knights Team 15891 presented about robots that they built for a regional and state competition called POWERPLAY.

Ariya Suwan, 10, second from left, with other 2023 Amateur Athletic Union National qualifiers: Milla, Christian, Simran, Nick, and Chloe; and (inset) with her coach, Dora Fyfe. Ariya took up competitive diving during the pandemic and is developing as one to watch internationally Pike Dive Academy/family photos

BY PATRICKBREEN SPECIALTO NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

OLD TAPPAN RESIDENT

Ariya Suwan is one of the top junior divers in the country, competing with team USA in Sweden, and traveling to AAU competitions all over the

United States.

At just 10 years old — sheʼs looking forward to fifth grade at Charles DeWolf Middle School — Ariya already has won multiple national competitions.

In July she took home first place in the 1-meter and 3-meter high dives, and second on platform, at the

Englewood teens gain work experience and $2,000 stipends via the Business Apprenticeship Program hosted by Bergen Family Center Credit Union.

See page 20

Amateur Athletic Union (AAU)

National Championships in Riverside, Calif., and followed that up with top-five finishes across multi-

The Titanium Knights is a robotics club at the Bergen County Academies — a public magnet high school in Hackensack. The members share a passion for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).

Team 15891, a merger of two previous teams, is made of dedicated students with different levels of experience in grades 9–12.

At their Closter Library presentation, Aubrey Shes, Mohit Kalin, Neil Dhalwann, Conner Landzettel and Juna Lee fascinated adults as well as children with their knowledge of robotics using demonstrations illustrated on lap-

See TITANIUM on page 10

Bckintime... Bckintime...

L first public school in this photograph taken around 1890. Kristin Beuscher has the story

Englewood ill-served on housing plan

To the editor: DESPITEENORMOUS public outcry, this week the Englewood City Council ignored calls by hundreds of residents and current and former public officials to postpone the approval of a proposed hous-

N ORTHERN VALLEY P RESS

ing development plan that would place unnecessary strains on n eighborhoods and schools t hroughout Englewood. Over 300 people attended a town hall meeting on Monday at Bergen Performing Arts Center hosted by Englewood One Community to speak out in opposition of the plan, which would rezone

various areas in town and promote overdevelopment.

Under the proposal, single family homes, historical sites, and the public library would be at risk to be sold and redeveloped.

“We absolutely oppose the current overlay zones,” said former Englewood Mayor Frank Huttle III, a presenter at the Town Hall. “We oppose the plan for jeopardizing our neighborhoods. It will have an impact on jeopardizing our schools, city services and our homes value.”

Huttle was joined by Former Councilwoman Lynne Algrant, Peter Steck, expert NJ licensed planner, Amy Bullock, 4th ward resident, Diane and Peter Jansen from Englewood News and Dr. David Colman, associate professor of African American History at Ramapo College of New Jersey on the presenterʼs panel of experts and community leaders.

Community activist Amy Jones Bullock noted the burden the proposal would have on schools and neighborhood density.

“Why do we continue to pile people on top of people?” she said. “Is there not a value to a

quality of life that promotes peace and tranquility?”

Mayor Michael Wildes and Councilman Kevin Wilson attended the Town Hall to express their o pposition to the development plan, joining the hundreds of residents in their frustration over the Councilʼs rush to usher through the project without hearing comprehensive input from the public.

Councilman Wilson was the sole member of the Council to vote “no” on the proposal; the other four Council members, Charles Cobb, Kenneth Rosenzweig, Lisa Wisotsky, and Judith Maron, all supported the project despite significant community opposition.

H uttle asked, “Why does Cobb-Rosenzweig-WisotskyMaron team want to build thousands of apartments in residential neighborhoods and increase the Cityʼs population by multiples of thousands?

Former Mayor Huttle proposed a workable solution; abide by the current city Master Plan and keep current zoning, thus eliminating the proposalʼs impact on neighborhoods and also create an opportunity for housing in cityʼs the commercial area. This

would ensure the city could meet its affordable housing obligations while keeping future development out of existing neighborhoods.

U nfortunately, this simple solution ultimately fell on deaf ears. The Council ignored and refused to consider public input and calls to postpone hearings this week on the project. Englewood One Community and several individual residents representing all City Wards filed an application in New Jersey Superior Court to p ostpone the final compliance meeting, but due to the city of Englewoodʼs attorneyʼs vigorous opposition, the court denied the request.

Going forward, Englewood

One Community will pursue further legal options with the goal for the communityʼs voices to finally be considered and heard.

Mayor Frank Huttle III

Via press release Editorʼs note: In 2018, Democratic Mayor Frank Huttle III, member of the Planning Board and who led on plans for the City of Englewoodʼs redevelopment, said he would not seek a fourth three-year term.

Emo Orchestra featuring Hawthorne Heights Oct. 5

Emo Orchestra featuring Hawthorne Heights performs Thursday, Oct. 5 at 8 a.m. Tickets are $45 to $85.

For emo music lovers and orchestra aficionados alike, Emo Orchestra is a new live experience that brings some of the most beloved emo songs of your youth to the theater stage with a full orchestra arrangement. Along with special guest Hawthorne Heights, the orchestra elevates songs from bands such as Taking Back Sunday, My Chemical Romance, and Dashboard Confessional in a w ay thatʼs never been heard before.

Emo Orchestra is a perfectly designed tribute to the music that shaped emo fans.

According to Ben MenchThurlow, who created the show, “Itʼs an opportunity for early fans of the emo genre to share the music that we all loved with the next generation, and it was curated to be family friendly The addition of the orchestra adds a cool texture and depth to these nostalgic hits and may also expose fans to instrumentation theyʼre less familiar with in a new setting. And orchestra lovers will experience what they enjoy with an exciting twist.”

ticketmaster.com

at the box office, (201) 227-1030.

ENGLEWOOD

Catch Emo Orchestra featuring Hawthorne Heights on Thursday, Oct. 5 at 8 p.m.

Murder charge, more, in bat attack

Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella announced the arrest of John Daniels Jr., 30, unemployed of 151 Stonegate Trail on charges of murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, hindering apprehension by suppression, hindering apprehension by providing false information, and unlawful possession of a weapon.

The arrest is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office under the direction of Chief Jason Love and the Cresskill Police Department under the direction of Chief James Domville.

On Wednesday, Aug. 16 at approximately 6:46 p.m., the Cresskill Police Department responded to a 911 call at a private residence on Stonegate Trail and found 48-year-old Irma Daniels, deceased of apparent blunt force trauma.

An investigation by the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office

Major Crimes Unit and the Cresskill Police Department

revealed that Daniels struck the victim in the head with a baseball bat before fleeing the residence.

On Thursday, Aug. 17 Daniels was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, N.J.S.A.

2C:11-3a(1)/11-3a(2); thirddegree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, N.J.S.A.

2C:39-4d; third-degree hindering apprehension by suppression, N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3b(1); third-degree hindering apprehension by providing false information, N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3b(4); and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d.

Daniels was remanded to the Bergen County Jail pending his first appearance in Central Judicial Processing Court in Hackensack.

Musella said Aug. 17 that the charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and he thanked the Cresskill Police Department and the Bergen County Sheriffʼs Office for their assistance in this investigation.

NORWOOD SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB

The Norwood Senior Citizens Club meets on the first and third Monday of the month at 1 p.m. at the Norwood Community Center, 453 Broadway. When a legal holiday falls on a Monday, the meeting is held on Tuesday. Annual dues are $15.

The club has been an active part of the Norwood community since 1969. Guest speakers are invited to inform members of concerns related to the senior citizen community.

Throughout the year, day trips are scheduled to dinner theatres, restaurants, casinos and points of interest.

Scheduled trips

August–December

Day trips

• Sept. 7, Windcreek Casino and Celine Dion tribute show, 9 a.m., $50 ($30 slot play)

•Oct. 3, Shore Club at Spring Lake, “Oktoberfest Lunch “Ach Der Lieber,” $65

•Dec. 7, Hunterdon Hills Playhouse Christmas show and lunch, $82

Overnight trip

• Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 13–14, Lancaster, Penn., “Sight & Sound” Moses and Dutch Apple Theatre, $395

Contact information

For day and overnight trips call Martha at (201) 665-9183 or Joyce at (201) 750-1725. For casino trips call Nick at (201) 767-0510.

N NOORRTTHHEERRN N V VAALLLLEEY Y P PRREESSS S

SHARE YOUR VINTAGE PHOTOS

NORTHERN VALLEY

Those old black and white photos have been sitting in the drawer for decades. Give those treasures more love by sharing them with your neighbors on this page.

Northern Valley Press welcomes old photographs depicting scenes in any of the towns in the region: Alpine, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Harrington Park, Haworth, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Rockleigh and Tenafly.

Specifically, we’re looking for materials dating to the 1970s and e arlier. These can be photos of local buildings, notable people, homes, streets, parks, stores, special events — you name it. Old advertisements for businesses in the Northern Valley are also most welcome.

The submissions are sought for publication in the weekly “Back in Time” local history feature, which appears to the right of this column.

Photographs can be submitted by scanning the photo or taking a good digital photo (the highest resolution possible to facilitate clear printing) and emailing a copy of the photographs along with some detailed information to northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net

FOR MORE INFORMATION

CALL (201) 358-9500

G Geet t t thhe e R Reessuulltts s

Get the results you’re looking for in the Service Directory in Northern Valley Press.

To place your service ad, call 201-358-9500.

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Hanging out at Tenafly’s first public school

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS TENAFLY

CAN YOU IMAGINE a scene like this taking place today? Kids are all over Tenaflyʼs first public school— and no safety nets in sight!—in this photograph taken around 1890.

In keeping with gender norms of the time, the girls are primly posed at ground level, while the boys have climbed out a top window and turned the school facade into a jungle gym.

The red brick school, built in 1872, stood at Tenafly Road and West Clinton

A v enue. Originally 40 feet by 60 feet, two stories in height, with a mansard roof and a basement, it cost $11,000 to b uild, about $275,000 in todayʼs money. It was modern for the time, heated by a furnace as opposed to a wood stove, and well ventilated. Later the school was enlarged to make more classrooms.

The class photo shown above dates to 1883. We can only w onder what the teacher (back row, right) is pointing at. The school budget for that year was $1,500.

In the following decade, according to school records, Nathaniel Hawthorneʼs “The Scarlet Letter” and Thomas Hardyʼs “Tess of the dʼUrbervilles” were pulled from the library shelves due to objectionable content.

The old brick school was torn down in 1920 to make way for Tenafly High School (which, in turn, has now become The Browning House condominiums).

Class photo dating to 1883. The school budget for that year was $1,500.

The old brick school was torn down in 1920 to make way for Tenafly High School (which, in turn, has now become The Browning House).

A classic once verboten on Tenafly school bookshelves

National Night Out Aug. 1 delivered

The evening of Tuesday, Aug. 1 was celebrated nationally as Americaʼs night out against crime, including in the Borough of Harrington Park, which pulled out all the stops.

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes strong police/community partnerships and neighborhood rapport to make communities safer, more caring places to live and work.

Many Bergen County towns offered family-friendly activities, food, and informational giveaways.

At this yearʼs events, the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office collaborated with nine local police departments to celebrate the importance of getting to know your neighbors to build a supportive atmosphere of safety and unity.

“We view National Night Out as a valuable opportunity to engage with local residents and share important crime prevention and safety messages,” said Prosecutor Mark Musella. “This annual event provides a chance for residents to interact with their neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community.”

Representatives from the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office joined local police departments in Hackensack, Harrington Park, New Milford, Palisades Park, Paramus, Rochelle Park, Rutherford, Saddle Brook, and Teaneck.

Harrington Park had its fun 6 to 9 p.m. in Highland Field The HPPD posted Aug. 2, “Thank you to

The evening of Tuesday,Aug.1 was celebrated as America’s night out against crime,including in the Borough of Harrington Park,which pulled out all the stops.(Harrington Park Police Department photo.See many more at the department’s Facebook page.) Below,a wedding ring was turned in at the event.Reach out to the police if it’s yours.

everyone who came out to join us for National Night Out 2023. We were happy to see everyone having a great time together.”

The department said, “It was great meeting a lot of our residents and visitors! We look forward to seeing you at next yearʼs National Night Out as we look on expanding the event.”

Special thanks went to photographer Takashi Matsumoto, DJ Chris Barron, Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office, Bergen County Sheriffʼs Office, Bergen County Regional SWAT, Bergen County Communications, Bergen County Mental Health Outreach, Palisades Parkway Police,

U.S. District Attorneyʼs Office, HPVAC, HPDPW, HPFD, HPJWC, HP Girls Scouts, Hackensack AirMed 1, HP Business Alliance, “and the Borough of Harrington Park for letting this event happen.”

—Northern Valley Press

Veolia celebrates NJ STEMScholars

Ten dedicated New Jersey students were recently awarded VeoSTEM-related fields. Veolia says recipients are cho-

ecipients were chosen for their academic honors, leadership, club participation and community involvement.

Northern Valley Press earlier this month that “We are pleased to conribute in such a positive way to students who will be future leaders in

She said Veolia funds additional scholarships through the New Jersey American Water Works Association and community and technical colleges across the state.

This yearʼs 2023 Veolia STEM

Scholarship recipients were from Hackensack High School, ILearn Bergen Science and Art Schools in Hackensack and Dwight Morrow and Academies at Englewood.

The scholarships were awarded to:

• Hackensack High School: Logan Natale, Kaylee Tenezaca, Jasmine Lockwood, and Ellen Kyeremeh.

• ILearn Bergen Science and Art Schools (Hackensack): Mariem Shalek, Fatma Cicek, and Desiree Itondo.

• Dwight Morrow and Academies at Englewood: Amira Mills, Zainab Akeusola, and Siamee Ahmed.

Congratulations to all!

New Concepts for Living invites you to its NCFL Walk-AThon at Wood Dale County Park in Woodcliff Lake on Sunday, Sept. 17.

Registration opens at 9 a.m. The walk starts at 10.

New Concepts for Living is a non-profit organization committed to caring for and nurturing adults challenged with developmental and physical disabilities so they can attain their highest level of wellness, independence, and achievement.

It offers beautiful, state-of-theart homes throughout Bergen and Passaic counties for the residents in its care.

NCFL tells Northern Valley Press, “Through our partnerships with our supporters, we remain focused on achieving continued growth and serving additional extraordinary individuals in the Northern New Jersey area. Funds raised go towards continuous supports and services, upkeep of our beautiful homes, expansion, and efforts to keep our residents integrated in the community through outings, trips, and activities.”

And it says, “We invite you to participate in this yearʼs NCFL Walk-A-Thon. It will be a fun filled morning of walking for a great cause alongside our residents, families, staff, and supporters. All are welcome. You can participate by signing up to walk, forming a team (bring your colleagues and/or family), or become a sponsor.

For more information visit ncfl.net/2023walkathon.

Educators, note $300 deduction on expenses

A s the new school year begins, the Internal Revenue Service reminds teachers and other educators that theyʼll be able to deduct up to $300 of out-of-pocket classroom expenses for 2023 w hen they file their federal income tax return next year.

This is the same limit that applied in 2022, the first year this provision became subject to inflation adjustment. Before that, the limit was $250. The limit will rise in $50 increments in future years based on inflation adjustments.

This means that an eligible educator can deduct up to $300 of qualifying expenses paid during the year. If theyʼre married and file a joint return with another eligible educator, the limit rises to $600. But in this situation, not more than $300 for each spouse.

Who qualifies?

Educators can claim this deduction, even if they take the standard deduction. Eligible educators include anyone who is a kindergarten through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal or aide who worked in a school for at least 900 hours during the school year. Both public and private school educators qualify.

Whatʼs deductible?

Educators can deduct the unreimbursed cost of:

• Books, supplies and other

materials used in the classroom.

•Equipment, including computer equipment, software and services.

•COVID-19 protective items to stop the spread of the disease in the classroom. This includes face masks, disinfectant for use against COVID-19, hand soap, hand sanit izer, disposable gloves, tape, paint or chalk to guide social distancing, physical barriers, such as clear plexiglass, air purifiers and other items recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Professional development courses related to the curriculum they teach or the students they teach. But the IRS cautions that, for these expenses, it may be more beneficial to claim another educational tax benefit, especially the l ifetime learning credit. For details, see Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education, particularly Chapter 3.

Qualified expenses donʼt include the cost of home schooling or for nonathletic supplies for courses in health or physical education. As with all deductions and credits, the IRS reminds educators to keep good records, including receipts, cancelled checks and other documentation.

For 2022 tax returns being filed now: Donʼt forget to claim educator expenses.

For those who received a tax filing extension, qualify for a dis-

aster extension, or for any other reason are still working on their 2022 return, the IRS reminds educators that the rules for claiming the deduction are the same as they a re for 2023. For those who obtained an extension, the filing deadline is Oct. 16, 2023. But taxpayers can avoid processing delays by filing before that date.

File electronically when ready. Tax-filing software uses a question-and-answer format that makes doing taxes easier. Whether a return is self-prepared or prepared with the assistance of a tax professional or trained community volunteer, the IRS urges everyone to file electronically and choose direct deposit for refunds. For

details, visit IRS.gov/efile

In addition, the IRS urges anyone who owes taxes to choose the speed and convenience of paying electronically, such as with IRS Direct Pay, a free service available only on IRS.gov For information about this and other payment options, visit IRS.gov/Payments

Teens rock U.S. Space Academy, environment education camp

Two students from Demarestʼs Academy of the Holy Angels received the summer vacation of their dreams thanks to an extraordinary scholarship program from the Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children.

Alessandra Boncaldo attended the prestigious U.S. Space Academy in Alabama, while Eva Santelli attended the Environmental Education Program at the Pine Mountain Settlement School in Kentucky.

T he Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children (SFIC)

recently gave six teenagers with an affinity for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) a summer vacation to remember.

The 12 scholarship recipients who are all entering their high school sophomore and junior years at Archdiocese of Newark Catholic schools — were chosen for their programs after submitting their grades, a teacher recommendation, and an essay describing w hy they would benefit from attending their desired camp. They also had to write a second essay explaining how math and science

(for Space Academy applicants) or biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental science (for Pine Mountain applicants) spark their creativity.

T hose who attended the Space Academy enjoyed one week of high-level educational and teambuilding activities, which included constructing a rocket, flying jet aircraft simulators, and completing an extended-duration Mars mission simulation. They also got to experience a moonwalk using the 1/6th gravity chair and a spacecraft tumble in the multi-axis

trainer. Meanwhile, the teenagers in the Environmental Education Program studied the ecology of Kentuckyʼs Pine Mountain and the James E. Bickford State Nature Preserve. That included examining stream activity, observing wildlife, and going on a night hike.

“These camps are fun things to do, but theyʼre also very educational,” said Jasmin Roman, SFICʼs director of scholarship programs. “They learn a lot about STEM, and they also learn a lot about teamwork because they have to work with people from around the world. Weʼve seen kids come back like different people because theyʼre much more confident. So, we love being able to provide this opportunity — itʼs an experience of a lifetime.”

SFICʼs Space Academy scholarships are funded entirely by donors Mark and Kathy Walchak, whose generosity has

sent more than 150 teenagers to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center since 1996. Many of these teens went on to pursue careers in

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

Cool kids: Ava Braddock,Eva Santelli,Malan Young,Oliva Lewis,and Zarabeth Campanella enjoy the waterfall and swimming hole at the Pine Mountain Settlement School in Bledsoe,Ky. Archdiocese of Newark

A student oversees a simulated trek to Mars from mission control while attending the Advanced Space Academy at the U.S.Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville,Ala. Archdiocese of Newark

The Chest’s Third Golf Outing Raises Funds for Nonprofits

The Community Chest of Eastern Bergen County held its third annual Golf Outing on Monday, July 10 at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale. On a bright, sunny day, nearly 100 golfers attended to raise funds for The Chestʼs initiatives and to support grant awards to nonprofit agencies providing a range of services in the area.

Founded in 1933, The Community Chest has strengthened the community through leadership and philanthropy by spearheading initiatives and supporting nonprofits that benefit people in eastern Bergen County.

The dayʼs activities included a day of golf, followed by cocktails and dinner. Throughout the evening, a celebration, awards ceremony and a silent auction took place.

Chairs of the outing were Matthew Bert Libien, managing

(Dinner), LNS GROUP LLC (Golf Ball Sponsor), Signature Kitchens (Golf Cart Sponsor),

nity Chest is looking ahead to the fourth annual event. Next yearʼs golf outing will be held on May 6 at Edgewood Country Club. For information, contact Vicki Sidrow at (201) 568-7474, 201-3908830 or vicki@communitychestofenglewood.org

Leading Community Efforts

director at Wells Fargo Advisors, and John Wilkens, principal of Robert Wilkens Insurance Agency, a World Insurance Company.

Organizers said volunteers were an integral part of the development and implementation of the golf outing, which created a successful 90th anniversary event. “Thank you to the members of the Golf Committee: Dick Kennedy, Matthew Bert Libien, Martin Huguley, Barbara Brensilber, Amy Gazley, Nancy Schonberg, Vicki Sidrow, Dr. Shelly Wimpfheimer, Franci Steinberg, John Wilkens, Mike Benedict, and Nick Makhoul. These volunteers provided invaluable support: Nancy Schonberg, Samma Faragalla, Eden Garrett, Cameron Garrett, Carol Goldberger, Barbara Bresilber, Sid Mehta, Gia Shin, and Anton Schermer.”

The Community Chest thanked these sponsors for their support: World Insurance Associates LLC (Gold), Lakeland Bank (Silver), LKU Group (Silver), Vantage Health System Inc. (Bronze), Wells Fargo Advisors

Land Rover Englewood (Hole-inOne), and Crystal Springs Resort (Hole-in-One).

After the success of this yearʼs golf outing, The Commu-

The Community Chest leads initiatives and support s nonprofits that make communities stronger and benefit people in need in eastern Bergen County. The organizationʼs service area covers these municipalities: Alpine, Bergenfield, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Dumont, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Harrington Park, Haworth, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Rockleigh and Tenafly.

Founded in 1933, The Community Chest, a nonprofit, taxexempt organization, has support-

Left: Greg Davidson,Adam Riker,Wayne Loranger,Thomas Arabia,David Arabia. Right: Silver Sponsor Lakeland Bank. Terence Lynch of Studio Eleven Productions

Committee members Martin Huguley,Matt Libien,Dick Kennedy,John Wilkens,Nick Makhoul,Franci Steinberg,Gia Shin,Sid Mehta,VP Vicki Sidrow, and Director Shelly Wimpfheimer. Terence Lynch of Studio Eleven Productions

Left: Shelly Wimpfheimer,Anthony Dello Buona,John Wilkens,and Vicki Sidrow.

Right: Kevin Carbiner,Matt Libien,and David Plotkin. Photos:Terence Lynch of Studio Eleven Productions

Titanium: Closter

FROM PAGE 1

top computers.

They showed how their robots can move in any direction, stand and sit, pick up and drop (traffic) cones and wave their arms around.

They explained how the team built their robots, a complicated

process using metals, wheels, screws and wires.

“To make the robot obey commands, we created a hub for it by coding with a JAVA program associated with the competition,” Kallin said.

The presentation was followed by a flurry of questions.

“Are robots like AI?”, one woman asked.

Dhalwann: “To some extent yes.”

“Does a robot cost a lot of money to build?”

Molit: “Yes. Robots are very expensive, and we do this on our own, but we have some sponsorship from companies like Google.”

The Titanium Knights teams share the mission of creating a self-sustaining and student-run

SALE LABOR DAY

robotics team that educates and supports students both outside of and within the community.

For this year, the goal of the 15 member Team 15891 is to learn about robotics in a competitive environment through this yearʼs challenge, POWERPLAY.

Dhalwann said that their goal is to “Grow the team, recruit more members, and share our passion for robotics with more people, particularly younger generations, by participating in outreach that promotes robotics awareness.”

Conner, a sophomore, added, “The seniors mentor the younger classes so they can take over the team when they graduate.”

Team 15891 has been competing in the FIRST Tech Challenge for four seasons, and 26 official events since 2019.

The team has also engaged in outreach events in a number of locations, including American Dream and the Liberty Science Center.

Throughout July and August, the Closter Public Library also hosted a weekly robotics class for youngsters in elementary and middle school grades. Geared to each childʼs expertise, there are differ-

ent workshops in which children are free to choose whatever they want:Snap Circuits, WeDo Lego Education and Lego Mindstorms. Snap Circuits introduces basic engineering, electronics and circuitry concepts by using building components with snaps to assemble electronic circuits on a simple “rows-and-columns” base grid.

The resulting projects are interactive and function like the printed circuit board found in most electronic products. When students connect the circuits correctly, they can power different objects, such as a motor, a fan, etc. The program ensures safety by using batteries, not live wires.

The WeDo 2.0 Core Set, also designed for primary school students, is a hands-on solution that enhances pupilsʼcuriosity and skills in computing, science and robotics. The set is delivered in a storage bin along with sorting trays, labels, a Smarthub (the

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

AHighly Acclaimed Music Enrichment Program Songs & Chants

AMusical

Aubrey Shes,Mohit Kalin,Neil Dhalwann,Conner Landzettel,and Juna Lee show youngsters how comp etition robots work. Yael, Penelope,and Shaked put Lego components through their paces. Hillary Viders photos

Q&A With County Executive James J. Tedesco III

JAMES J. TEDESCO III is the second person in the history of Bergen County government to be elected as Bergen County Executive three times.He has been serving in this position since 2015, during which time he has focused on improving quality of life and services for over a million county residents in 70 municipalities and also creating greater efficiency and effectiveness throughout the countyʼs government.

Under his leadership, Tedescoʼs administration restored $6.5 million in education funding and has continued to expand the countyʼs investmentsin education initiatives at Bergen Community College and the Countyʼs Technical and Special Services School District eight years in a row.

He has also spearheaded initiatives to expand shared services, revitalized the fourthlargest public hospital in the nation — Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, increased services and support for U.S. military veterans and their families, and preserved and expanded the nearly 10,000 acres of open space and recre-

TEDESCO VIDERS

ational facilities within Bergen County Parks System for the enjoymentof passive and active enthusiasts alike as outlined in the 2019 Parks Master Plan.

Under Tedescoʼs leadership, Bergen County has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as the first county in New Jersey to end homelessness among veterans.

Tedesco is also a major advocate for the Stigma-Free Initiative and has increased funding for mental health services at the county level.

Tedesco says he is proud that Bergen County retains a AAA Moodyʼs Bond rating and has the second lowest tax rate in the state of New

By Hillary Viders

Jersey. His administration led the countyʼs response tothe COVID-19 pandemic by providing access to testing and vaccinations, and by boosting economic recovery by providing over $55 million to small businesses that were impacted.

Tedesco has a strong dedication to civic duty, as witnessed by his role as a volunteer firefighter for over 46 years, and his past positions as both fire chief and Mayor of Paramus.

I recently had the opportunity to meet with Tedesco to discuss a number of issues:

HILLARY VIDERS:What is the most difficult part of your job?

JAMES TEDESCO: Balancing time. Bergen County is the largest county in the state, with 70 local municipalities. The county has a workforce of over 2,000 employees that perform duties from administering critical social services to paving roads, to managing over 9,000 acres of parkland.

HV:What is involved in building the countyʼs budget?

JT: Budgets are about priorities. In this yearʼs budget we aimed to achieve the following goals:

• Building a safer tomorrow through community safety

•Supporting education

• Expanding recreational opportunities in our park system for the enjoyment passive and active enthusi-

asts alike

•Funding public infrastructure projects

•Delivering critical services to those that need help the most

• Maintaining proven track record of strong fiscal management HV:What projects are you working on?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III on the march at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Bergenfield. Hillary Viders photo

The Garden Club of Harrington Park invites you to its first meeting of the new season on Thursday, Sept. 7 at 7:30 p.m. upstairs in the Harrington Park Library, 10 Herring St.

Jeffrey Van Pelt, one of the GCHPʼs most inspiring speakers, will present “Ten Best Roses for Your Garden and More,” a pictorial spectrum of varieties he recommends to achieve a gorgeous flowering rose garden.

Van Pelt earned a Bachelor of Science degree in plant science horticulture from Cook College –Rutgers University. He was horticulture supervisor at Sommerset

County Park for 15 years, where h e designed and directed the installation of landscape plantings and the maintenance of the Colonial Park Gardens, the golf course, and other areas throughout the park system.

Van Pelt also oversaw the renovation and maintenance of the Rudolf W. van der Goot Rose Garden, which contains more than 3000 roses of 325 varieties, and he developed the departmentʼs public programming and lectures, which are given to New Jersey garden clubs.

An avid organic home gardener and plant enthusiast, Van

Pelt maintains vegetable gardens, perennial gardens, an herb garden, and a greenhouse, and recently installed a rose garden on his property.

He enjoys hiking and says he is “a stalker of wildflowers in the

woods.” And he loves to lecture to Garden Clubs.

The lecture is followed by a Q&A session and refreshments. Dale Muto is the eveningʼs hostess.

sion, from all towns; membership is not required. For more information, call club president Gerri Gibney at (201) 768-2615 or visit the Garden Club of Harrington Park at g ardenclubofharringtonpark.com

Jeffrey Van Pelt,one of the GCHP’s most inspiring speakers,will present “Ten Best Roses for Your Garden and More,”a pictorial spectrum of varieties he recommends to achieve a gorgeous flowering rose garden. J. Van

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Pelt photo

‘X’ marks the spot on mint Erie Canal Completion Medal

Hi, Jon,

This metal disc belonged to m y father-inlaw, who passed away in the 1960s. We know i t belonged to his grandfather and is quite valuable. I had not looked at it in years, but since I started reading your piece in the newspaper, I decided to find it and inquire about it. Thanks in advance.

—Dorothy in Oradell

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

Hi, Dorothy, The “metal disc” you possess is a solid sterling silver version of the rare 1826 Erie Canal Completion Medallion. When completed in October 1825, the Erie Canal was an engineering marvel that

This medallion celebrates the completion of the Erie Canal in 1825 after eight years of construction, a project that would spur development of the port of New York City. (Canal map circa 1840 above.) The canal spanned 363 miles across New York state, connecting the Great Lakes with the Hudson River.

was four decades in the making. This canal connected Buffalo and the Great Lakes in the west all the way to Albany and the Hudson River in the east, and by extension south to New York City and out to the Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River.

When the canal was completed it ushered in an era of econom-

ic, cultural and political prosperity in New York and specifically New York City, as a major port city along the East Coast.

To commemorate the canalʼs completion, which was the largest and most advanced construction project of its time, the Common Council of New York City authorized a medallion. The execution of

this medallion was given to the important American artist Archibald Robertson.

On one side of your medallion is decorated with an image of Panʼs visit to King Neptune w ith a cornucopia and the inscription “Union of Erie with the Atlantic.”

On the reverse are the arms of the state, a representation of the canal and on the left the City of New York.

Most medallions struck for this grand occasion were cast in white metal. The ones struck in sterling silver, like yours, were t ransmitted to the President, heads of departments, and governors.

Three additional medallions were struck in solid gold. These three gold medallions were given to the three surviving signers of the Declaration of Independence. Your medal appears in mint state condition. No scratches, wear, or damage. I recommend having this item slabbed and graded. The value of this important sterling-silver medallion in mint state is $2,500. I can furnish you with a list of approved grading services.

My best wishes, and thank you for allowing me to appraise such a wonderful item.

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.

R.Z.M. Fine Arts & Antiques, Inc.

BYJONFELZ R.Z.M. FINE ARTS & ANTIQUES INC.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Delicious! Bergen County Food &Wine Fest Sept. 7, 10

The 200 Club of Bergen County, a not-for-profit organizatin in support of local police, firefighters, emergency services and their families, will host Bergen Countyʼs largest culinary showcase, The Bergen County Food & Wine Festival, this September under tents outdoors in the Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus, parking lot.

The event is Thursday, Sept. 7 and Sunday, Sept. 10.

NEW EVENT: The Summer

Sendoff Lobster Boil

Organizers say, “Join us Sept. 7 for the all new play on a Jersey shore classic: The Lobster Boil powered by In Thyme Caterers. Enjoy a delicious lobster boil dinner under the tent while being entertained with live music from local artists and a corn hole tournament. Time: 6–10 p.m. Tickets begin at $75.”

Sept. 10 includes the standard Grand Tasting event from noon to 6 p.m. Tickets begin at $75.

Programming will “shine a spotlight on dozens of Bergen Countyʼs best restaurants, allowing them to offer samples of their

fare and make their mark on the community, while guests once again spend the day sampling different wines, spirits and beers.”

Inserra Supermarkets is the Presenting Sponsor of the Bergen

Q&A: Exec. Tedesco

FROM PAGE 12

JT: Several:

•Fixing the Route 17 bottleneck;

• Building a transformative new indoor bus terminal in Hackensack that will include around 90 units of workforce housing for entry level workers (teachers, cops, firefighters, social workers, nurses, etc.);

• Resurfacing sport courts across the county park system;

• Just established the Office of LGBTQ services;

• Just transitioned the Bergen County Food Security Task Force to a full time “Office of Food Security” under the Department of Human Services.

HV: You have an excellent relationship with the county commissioners.

JT: Yes, I do. They are my partners in governance, we work together to make sure county government continues to put the residents of Bergen County first.

HV: How many community events to you attend each year?

JT: Close to a 100

JT: We have created a Bergen County Small Business Resource Network in conjunction with Bergen Community College. Over 1,200 businesses have signed up to take advantage of this free program, which offers assistance that varies from developing social media strategies to find suppliers, applying for grants and loans, to designing websites.

We have established a Bergen County Food Security Task Force to assist residents in need of food. To that end, we have provided $1 million in grants to 41 food pantries. It is now a full-time “office” within the Department of Human Services.

Since 1978, Alternatives to Domestic Violence (ADV) is a multifaceted Bergen County lead domestic violence nonresidential intervention program that offers a comprehensive approach by providing services to individuals and families involved in an abusive relationship. These services include a 24hour hotline, crisis intervention, counseling, legal/victim advocacy and assistance and referrals.

Celebrating 27 Years

County Food & Wine Festival. “With 22 ShopRite Supermarkets, their expertise in the world of food is valued greatly.”

For more information, visit bergencountyfoodandwine.com.

HV: What are your favorite events?

JT: I may be biased, but the county hosts nearly 50 flag raisings every single year to celebrate the diverse communities that make up the fabric of our great county. We just hosted three last week for Pakistani, Korean, and Indian independence days and we have our secondannual Ukrainian flag raising coming up.

HV: What programs and projects have you initiated and which are in the works?

The division also provides community education and workshops to raise awareness of the problem of domestic violence in our community with the goal of prevention through education.

Also, we hope to break ground on a transformational public transportation and housing project.

HV:What are the most rewarding aspects of your job?

JT: Being able to make an impact every single day, from paving potholes to administering benefits.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

bergenPAC goes big on shows August–October

bergenPAC announces four shows for summer and fall: guitar icon Don Felder on Saturday, Aug. 5 at 8 p.m.; R&B star Ginuwine on Sunday, Aug. 20 at 8 p.m.; the Grateful Dead Tribute band Dead on Live on Thursday, Sept. 28 at 8 p.m.; An Evening with Geena Davis and a screening of Beetlejuice on Saturday, Oct. 14 at 8 p.m.

Dead on Live Shakedown Show!

Thursday, Sept. 28 at 8 p.m.

$35–$55

B ased on their unique approach of recreating all instruments, as well as the lush and complex vocal harmonies heard o n classic recordings of the 1970ʼs, Dead On Live has quickly become recognized as one of the top acts to pay tribute to the music of the American treasure known as the Grateful Dead. The group is led by multi-instrumentalist, touring and recording veteran, Marc Muller (Shania Twain, Tommy Shaw, Bruce Springsteen.

Dead On Live is thrilled to return to bergenPAC with acoustic

and electric sets featuring some of the more adventurous, deeper Dead cuts from their vast catalog. Sing-alongs like “Ripple”, “Box of Rain”, richly orchestrated and c omplex Dead with “Weather R eports” and “Help/Slip/Franklin”, steel guitar drenched “Looks Like Rain”, staccato sax stabs of the rarely played “Let Me Sing Your Blues Away” and of course, fan fav rockers like “I Need a Miracle” and “One More Saturday Night.”

An Evening with Geena Davis and a screening of ʻBeetlejuiceʼ Saturday, Oct. 14 at 8 p.m.

$55–$95

E njoy an unforgettable evening with Geena Davis, Academy Award-winning actress and star of the iconic film, Beetlejuice. The evening will feature a special screening of the beloved movie, followed by a live conversation and audience Q&A with Davis, who portrayed the character of Barbara Maitland in the film.

During the conversation, Geena Davis will share her personal experiences and insights from working on the set of Beetle-

juice, discussing everything from her favorite moments to behindthe-scenes stories. She will also discuss her broader career in Hollywood, including her advocacy work for gender equality and diversity in the entertainment industry.

A limited number of VIP tick-

ets are available which include an a utographed poster, a reading from Geena Davisʼmemoir, Dying of Politeness, and the opportunity to participate in an exclusive Q&A session, where VIPs can ask their own questions and engage in a lively discussion. This is a unique opportunity to get up close and

personal with a Hollywood legend, and to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of the most beloved movies of all time. Photo opportunities are not included. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or box office (201) 227-1030

bergenPACʼs Performing Arts

School is excited to announce the launch of a new music program featuring Kathy Sheppard, founder of the first School of Rock in the New York area.

The idea behind the new rock school at bergenPAC is that the best way to learn is by doing, with students playing music from the moment they join. The program is

for students ages 5 and up and will feature a variety of performance opportunities at bergenPAC and across the region.

Students can meet the instructors and learn more at the Performing Arts School open house Sept. 11–14 and 22–23. For much more information, visit bergenpac.org/education or email education@bergenpac.org

County Clerk Honors Larry D’Ercole Sr.

Bergen County Clerk John S. Hogan recently honored threet erm Norwood Councilman Lawrence “Larry” DʼErcole Sr., the highest vote-getter on the 1969, 1972, and 1975 Norwood General Election ballots.

Hogan told Northern Valley Press on Aug. 11 that DʼErcole, a longtime friend of his, reached out “because he recalled being the highest vote-getter but he did not have anything to back it up. My office found him the proof.”

Hogan presented DʼErcole with copies of historical election results, which are retained by his office, along with a ceremonial recertification certificate for each election.

“ These were Larry DʼErcoleʼs glory days. He is a friend to many and is still the most popular guy in Norwood,” Hogan said.

—Staff report

Titanium: Closter

FROM PAGE 10

“brain” of the computer), a Medium Motor, Motion Sensor, a Tilt Sensor, and building elements.

Lego Mindstorms is a hardware and software structure which develops programmable robots based on Lego building blocks. Each version includes an intelligent brick (or hub), a set of modular sensors and motors, and parts from the Lego Technic line to create the mechanical systems. The system is controlled by the intelligent brick, which act as the brain of the mechanical system and is activated by writing instructions in basic code on an app.

The libraryʼs robotics program is so popular that it has been running four semesters throughout the year. It is directed by Lupita OʼBrien, the libraryʼs head of Youth Services.

“I love this program because it gives kids early exposure about the components of robotics, so when they get to high school, they are ready for it. They are actually studying what years ago would be advanced engineering.

The robotics program is led by a 16-year-old robotics enthusiast, Chloe Kim.

“When I was the age of these students, there really wasnʼt a program like this, and it was really hard for me to find a good resource,” Kim said. “So, I wanted to create safe space where people can get a head start and learn coding.”

After a hiatus, Kim re-started the program several years ago and she helped obtain funding for it from The Friends of the Closter Public Library.

Robotic program sessions at the Closter Library summer often included as many as 22 children, so there are always several assistants on hand. Assisting Kim this summer were Julienne Lee and Dan and Ash Sabnani.

The Closter Library Robotics program motivates students so much that some of them go on to enroll in STEM programs at technical and engineering high schools, making it a really outstanding “live wire act.”

— By Hillary Viders

Bergen County Clerk John S.Hogan presents Norwood Councilman Lawrence “Larry”D’Ercole Sr.with copies of historical election results.D’Ercole Sr.— whose family has been a fixture in local public service — is the highest vote-getter on the 1969,1972,and 1975 Norwood General Election ballots. Courtesy photo

Bergen County Players roars back for 91st season with ‘Rent’

The Bergen County Players, one of Americaʼs longest-running little theater companies, is proud to announce its 2023–24 schedule with an ambitious, joyous, and playful year of audience-pleasing musicals and innovative plays for its 91st season.

From delightful musicals to hilarious comedies to thoughtprovoking dramas, BCP has garnered a reputation for outstanding quality productions at affordable prices.

The group is excited to kick off with the rock musical “Rent,” winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Tickets for “Rent” and the rest of the 2023–24 season are available starting Aug. 1, online and by phone. Early Access tickets are available starting July 21.

The box office, at the Little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell, will open on Friday, Aug. 18 for walk-up sales or by calling (201) 2614200. (Dates subject to change:, visit bcplayers.org for updates). Special discounts for groups of 20 or more are also available by calling the box office (ext. 6) or by emailing groups@bcplayers.org

“Where do you go after 90 years? On to the next 90,” said Alyson Cohn, president of Bergen County Players.

She said, “For 2023–24, our team curated a season that speaks to BCPʼs values of joy and belonging. We are eager for audiences to take part in the uniquely personal and shared community experience of engaging with art and artists in our space.”

MAINSTAGE PRODUCTIONS

Rent

Music, lyrics, and book by Jonathan Larson, directed by Steve Bell Sept. 9 – Oct. 14

“One of the most impactful shows in the history of musical theater comes to the BCP stage. This contemporary answer to ʻLa

Bohemeʼrushes forward on an electric current of emotion that is anything but morbid. The styles include not only electric rock but salsa, Motown, be-bop and reggae, with a firm nod to Stephen Sondheim and even a passing one to Burt Bacharach. When the whole ensemble stands at the edge of the stage, singing fervently about the ways of measuring borrowed time (in ʻSeasons of Loveʼ), the heart both breaks and soars.”

— New York Times.

Awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the Tony Award for Best Musical, Book and Score of 1996, and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical, Book, Music, Lyrics and Orchestrations. Ran for over 12 years and 5,100 performances. Please note that this production contains strong language and mature thematic material involving drugs, HIV/AIDS and a broad spectrum of sexuality.

Master Class

Written by Terrence McNally, directed by Alan Demovsky Oct. 28 –Nov. 18

“The character study of a great diva and a woman whose multi-faceted personality—wit, strength, ego but also vulnerability—make this play appealing to anyone with an interest in human nature and in how a special gift and the lack of love can shape a person. In this case the ʻspecial giftʼis [Maria] Callasʼexceptional operatic voice and her ability to feel the music sheʼs performing – but ʻoperaʼis by no means what defines the play.”

— London Theatre.

Winner of both the Tony and Drama Desk Awards Best Play of 1996.

A Christmas Carol Music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens, directed by Larry Landsman Dec. 2–17

“This timeless holiday story of Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, features music by Alan Menken (ʻBeauty and the Beast,ʼʻLittle Shop of Horrorsʼ, ʻNewsiesʼ) and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens (ʻRagtime: The Musicalʼ, ʻSeussical,ʼʻOnce on This Islandʼ). Itʼs a nonstop cornucopia of crowd-pleasing, showstopping numbers as well as several rich and introspective ballads.”

“Probably just about everyo ne knows how ʻA Christmas Carolʼends, but the popularity of Dickensʼtale proves that it never gets old.”

— TalkinʼBroadway

This is not a typical BCP holiday family show. It is a fullscale, large-cast holiday musical spectacular presented in a single act of 90 minutes. Note that the

performance calendar and ticket prices are different from our family shows of the past. Recommended for kids aged 5 and up.

Pride and Prejudice

Written by Kate Hamill, directed by Carol Fisher

Feb. 3 – 24, 2024

“A woman elevating her own life, liberty and pursuit of happiness above the wishes of her family and the men who desire her? Thatʼs not simple or cynical. In 1813, it is a revolutionary choice.”

— New York Times

K ate Hamill, one of the m ost-produced playwrights in America over the past halfdecade, has created “A comically charming (in all the right places) condensation of the book. As it is written, this two-hour trifle has a g iddy sense of chaos, while attempting to maintain the upper crust veneer of British society types vying for social position and attempting to secure lucrative marriages for all the eligible daughters.”

DC Theatre Scene

“Itʼs hard to imagine that an interpretation of a 225-year-old book breathes fresh life into these characters in a way that makes them feel contemporary and relatable while retaining the plot, setting and dialog of the Jane Austen original.”

— Broadway World

The Fantasticks

Music by Harvey Schmidt, lyrics and book by Tom Jones, directed by Ray Yucis March 9–April 6

This allegorical story, concerning two neighboring fathers w ho trick their children into falling in love by pretending to feud, is the worldʼs longest-running musical, having run offBroadway for 42 years and 17,162 performances, with hundreds of thousands more presented around the world.

Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidtʼs “little musical that could” has touched hearts and audiences for the last 62 years. It has

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

CELEBRATING OUR 91ST SEASON!

S Sc c h o o ol l N e w s

Business Apprenticeship Program nurtures young talent

This summer, Englewood teenagers gained valuable work experience as well as a $2,000 stipend in the Business Apprenticeship Program hosted by the Bergen Family Center (BFC), organized by the North Jersey Chamber of Commerce and funded by the Englewood Council, Englewood Health and Visions Credit Union.

Twenty businesses and organizations welcomed and mentored 23 young adults aged 16 and up in the six-week program that ran July 5 to Aug. 11:

Actors Fund Home, Arts Horizon, Aylwards Health Foods, BergenPAC, Bergen Family Center, Englewood Health Hospital and Medical Center, Englewood Dental, Englewood Public Library, Englewood Veterinary Center, Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, Health East Medical Center, Hudson Med Spa, Infant Toddler Daycare, Kaeos Fitness, Marciaʼs Attic for Kids, Matisse Chocolates, NJ Assemblywoman Ellen Park, Tina Pearson Salon and the Womenʼs Rights Information Center.

Mitch Schonfeld, CEO of the Bergen Family Center, is adamant about the value of the Business Apprenticeship program.

He said, “The BFC has hosted this program since 2013, with a 2year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Young people need opportunities to be successful in the working world and develop skills

such as following workplace guidelines, engaging successfully with co-workers and understanding the value of paid employment and budgeting for future success.”

The directors of this yearʼs apprenticeship program were DeManuel Edmondson, director of adolescent services, Bergen Family Center and Amelia Rostant, youth development specialist, Bergen Family Center.

DeManuel said, “The Business Apprenticeship Program is intensive, but the kids really enjoy it and it is a really valuable experience.

Several of our apprentices were subsequently hired by the businesses they apprenticed with.”

Before the summer program began, the BFC hosted 6 weeks of workshops during the school year at the Dwight Morrow School. Workshops were hosted by the ZONE staff.

The workshops focused on self-advocacy, financial literacy, human resources, business communications, and career exploration.

Once students were paired up with workplaces, they worked full time, five days a week. They were

involved in day-to-day operations while learning time management, reliability, and effective customer service from the business owners.

During their six-week summer apprenticeship, the students participated in weekly workshops at the Mackay Room in the Englewood Public Library.

The sessions were based on “7 Habits of a Highly Effective Teen” and were facilitated by the Children Aid and Family Services with invited guests such as Council Members Charles Cobb and Dr. Lisa Wisotsky.

The curriculum focused on helping youth apply personal leadership principles to the real world through building self-esteem.

The Business Apprenticeship Program has received outstanding reviews from the students, the instructors and the business owners.

Sarah Marks, an apprentice at the Womenʼs Rights Information Center, did office and reception work.

“I learned a lot and I loved it so much that I am going to come back next year as a volunteer,” she said.

The two apprentices at Aylwards Health food store, Matias Espejo and Fernando Cortez, were

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

ENGLEWOOD

Business Apprenticeship Program graduates. Hillary Viders

Apprentice-supervised campers call out for critters in the wetlands at Flat Rock Brook Nature Center Hillary Viders

S Sc c h o o ol l N e w w s

BENNETTLEADERSPROGRAMINVESTSIN CARISSA LIU

Carissa Liu has been selected for the prestigious Television Academy Foundation Bob Bennett Future Leaders Program. She is one of just 10 college students selected, among the Foundationʼs 2023 summer interns, for the inaugural program.

Liu is a sophomore at the University of Southern California (USC) majoring in public relations. She is a publicity intern at Organic PR, an award-winning publicity and social media firm in Los Angeles, through the Foundationʼs program.

Originally from Tenafly, Liu attended Bergen County Academies.

T he Bob Bennett Future Leaders Program supports select students from the Television Academy Foundationʼs summer Internship Program. Established thanks to a generous gift from the Robert M. and Marjie Bennett Foundation, this initiative pro-

vides financial support for interns as well as professional development and leadership training.

To be considered for the program, applicants must submit a 350-word essay on what innovation and leadership mean to them and how they plan to apply those qualities in their internship and future careers in television.

“For my internship and beyond, I vow to keep diverse perspectives at the forefront of everything I do and to lead efforts in vouching for any perspectives that I feel could enrich a story,” Liu said in a statement shared with Northern Valley Press

Philanthropist Kelly Bennett, head of the Robert M. and Marjie Bennett Foundation, said, “The chance to honor my father with this legacy fund supporting and mentoring televisionʼs future leaders through education programs is extremely rewarding.”

The Television Academy

Foundation shapes the art of creating television by engaging and educating the next generation of television professionals providing essential resources that help them discover their voices, refine their skills and forge rewarding careers in every sector of the television industry.

The Internship Program annually provides 50 students from across the nation with handson work experience, mentorships and opportunities for accelerated career development in more than 30 industry disciplines.

About the Television Academy Foundation

Established in 1959 as the charitable arm of the Television Academy, the Television Academy Foundation is dedicated to preserving the legacy of television while educating and inspiring those who will shape its future. Through renowned educational

Lily Corso of HP makes Trustees’ List at Champlain

Lily Corso of Harrington Park was named to the Champlain College TrusteesʼList for the Spring 2023 semester.

Students on the TrusteesʼList have achieved a 4.0 grade point aver-

age for two or more consecutive semesters. Corso is studying social work. Making the TrusteesʼList is a tremendous achievement in any year. Many of the high achievers balance their classes with serious jobs, intern-

ships, clubs, and volunteering.

Founded in 1878, Champlain College is a small, not-for-profit, private college in Burlington, Vt., with additional campuses in Montreal, Canada, and Dublin, Ireland.

Images

and outreach programs, such as “The Interviews: An Oral History of Television” project, College Television Awards and Summit, Student Internship Program, and the Media Educators Conference, the Foundation seeks to widen the circle of voices our industry represents and to create more opportunity for television to reflect all of society.

For more information on the Foundation, visit TelevisionAcademy.com/Foundation

Kelly Bennett, right, with Carissa Liu, a Bob Bennett Future Leader, July 2023, in Los Angeles. Photos by Dan Steinberg/Invision for the Television Academy/AP

HARRINGTON PARK

Bergen County Players:

FROM PAGE 19

evolved and changed over that time but has never lost its core appeal—a beautiful, poetic, and highly theatrical tale of the power

HILLSDALE

and depth of love —gained, lost and found again.”

— Broadway World

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Written by Simon Stephens

Directed by Alyson Cohn April 20–May 11

Fifteen-year-old Christopher has an extraordinary brain; he is exceptionally intelligent but illequipped to interpret everyday life. When he falls under suspicion for killing his neighborʼs dog, he sets out to identify the

Time to play, and stay, at Hounds Town

If youʼre looking for doggie daycare in Bergen County, this town designed just for dogs is the p lace to be. Hounds Town is Home to the Happiest Dogs on Earth, in Hillsdale.

With 5,000 square feet of playrooms, luxury suites, overnight town homes, cat boarding villas, a full-service doggie day spa, and an expansive outdoor play area, Hounds Town Hillsdale offers fully interactive doggie daycare, overnight boarding for dogs and cats, dog spa services, and a pet taxi service.

Hounds Town Hillsdale has large playrooms for all-day play, where dogs are placed in natural packs with other dogs of similar size, temperament, energy level, and personality, allowing them to express their natural pack instincts.

Connect today to set up your free evaluation and free first day.

550 Piermont Ave., Hillsdale hillsdale@houndstownusa.com

Phone: 1 (201) 666-0741 houndstownusa.com

true culprit, which leads to an earth-shattering discovery and a journey that will change his life forever.

“A singular theater piece that commands enormous admiration for the thought that has gone into its every word, gesture, and technical effect ... a tremendously exciting demonstration of the power of theater. It makes us w ant to reconsider the world around us, without missing a single one of its infinite details.”

Hollywood Reporter

Winner of five Tony Awards, six Drama Desk Awards and seven Olivier Awards, including Best Play for all three.

SECOND STAGE PRODUCTIONS

In and Out of the Light

Written by Elaine May

Directed by Glenn Woertz

Jan. 12–14, 2024

Iconic comedy genius Elaine May has created a farcical delight revolving around a workaholic dentist attempting to have a fling with his curvaceous assistant. His plans are set hilariously awry by an after-hours patient who is a mega-neurotic psychologist with a pain phobia, and by a surprise visit from his son who has two heart-bursting announcements. Some mature themes presented in comedic style.

You Make My Frame Shake!

Written by Luigi Jannuzzi

Directed by David Luke

May 31–June 2

Twelve romances come to life at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in a fast-paced series of eight comedic love plays and four comedic monologues. Award-winning playwright Jannuzzi is New Jersey-born andbred and specializes in romantic/absurdist comedy with serious themes of love, truth, and the need to rise above it all.

TICKET AND SCHEDULE INFORMATION

All performances are at The Little Firehouse Theatre at 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell, home to the Bergen County Players since 1949. Mainstage performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sund ays at 2 p.m. with Second Stage performances on Saturday at 2 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Other curtain times apply to some performances of “Rent,” and all performances of “A Christmas Carol.”

For more information, including on ticket prices, special offers, and parking, call (201) 261-4200, visit bcplayers.org, or write groups@bcplayers.org

Club News?

Hounds Town Pool Pawty for “the happiest dogs on Earth.”

Business:

FROM PAGE 20

also excited about their work experience, and it was evident in the feedback of the storeʼs customers. Pernell Bess, who ran his own businesses for 45 years, said, “I know how important customer service is and these young men have had that attitude from the start.”

Alexis Mejia, 17, one of the four apprentices at the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, also pointed out, “This work experience will look good on my college application.”

Salome Hica, a 16-year-old who apprenticed at Englewood Health, liked the fact that the job assignment was random.

She said, “You donʼt really

know what job you are getting and that makes you stay sharp and prepare for anything. It helped me do my job at the patient intake center where patience and compassion are important because many people are scared to be at the hospital. I am definitely coming back next year.”

Carol Fusco, whose apprentices worked with the 6- to 12-yearold campers at the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, was also very enthused about this yearʼs program.

She said, “It is invaluable to us because it helps us to meet or exceed the child to counselor ratio. The teens do everything from leading hikes, supervising playground activities, to conducting arts and crafts projects. And, they really love it. They jump right in as soon as they get here.”

Stephen Wiessner, executive director of the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, added, “Itʼs a great

program because its symbiotic. Itʼs great for the non-profit organizations and businesses, but itʼs also great for the students for whom this is their first job experience. It is a win–win situation all around.”

Lots of fun

The programʼs graduation on Aug. 11 was a festive event. It was held at Englewood Health auditorium where all the apprentices and their families and friends gathered.

The graduates were congratulated by Englewood Council Members Charles Cobb and Judith Marans, Mayor Michael Wildes, BFC CEO Mitch Schonfeld, Flat Rock Brook Nature Center executive director Steven Wiessner and Claire Anderson, chief of staff for Assemblywoman Ellen Park.

Speeches were made by Northern New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President Carol

Rauscher, Edmonston, and Wildes.

Each student received a certificate of achievement from the city and a check for $1,000 (they received their first $1,000 check mid-way through the program). The group then headed for the lobby where delicious packaged lunch selections awaited.

Looking back, it should be noted that remarks made by some of the graduates were truly memorable.

Teenagers Marlin

Diaz Escalon

and Melisa Arreaga said, “The Englewood Business program has assisted so many students like us. “It gave us the skills to find employment on our own.”

Zainab Akeusola also made an important observation: “The apprentice program is not just about finding jobs. Itʼs about community,” and the Englewood community is, indeed, enriched by the Business Apprenticeship Program and the students in it.”

— By Hillary Viders

Mikhail Zakin Gallery at The Art School at Old Church presents “Faces in the Crowd:Photographs by Mark Reeves.”Reeves’ work will be on view Sept.11–Oct.16.Admission is free.The public is invited to a reception with the artist in the Mikhail Zakin Gallery on Thursday,Sept.14,6–8 p.m.

TASOC unveils Reeves photos Sept. 11

The Art School at Old Church is pleased to present photographs by Mark Reeves. Navigating the boundaries of street photography, Reeves captures peopleʼs unscripted behaviors at public events and in everyday contexts.

TASOC tells Northern Valley Press , “Some photographs are taken unbeknownst to their subjects. Others incorporate performative elements as individuals present themselves in ways that beckon viewers to experience evocative moments during parades, ceremonies, and festivals.”

Reevesʼwork is on view

Sept. 11–Oct. 16. Admission is free. The public is invited to a reception with the artist in the Mikhail Zakin Gallery on Thursday, Sept. 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. Mikhail Zakin Gallery is at 561 Piermont Road in Demarest. Regular hours are Monday

through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thereʼs so much to discover. F or more information, visit tasoc.org or call (201) 767-7160.

For information on group visits, write peggy@tasoc.org

Managing your investments during difficult times

The combination of a pandemic, economic difficulties, political unrest, and natural disa sters have all presented their respective chall enges. Investors may be wondering what effect these events could have on their investments.

them work toward meeting their investment goals - know yourself, build a plan, and keep an eye on the long term.

K Knno o w w y yo ouurrsse el lf f

another, and no level of tolerance is considered the “right” levelthereʼs only the right risk tolera nce for each investor.

ERIC KOHLMEIER

Which is why itʼs helpful for investors to focus on three fundamental actions that could help

When stocks drop by 20% or m ore, some investors might ignore the drop, others might feel the urge to sell, while still others might see it as a good time to buy.

This range of reactions illustrates different levels of risk tolerance, or how sensitive investors are to market volatility. Risk tolerance varies from one investor to

Talking with financial advisors or completing online quest ionnaires can help investors determine their risk tolerance.

While understanding your r isk tolerance is essential, it should not be considered in isolation. Risk tolerance, goals, and time horizon all play a role in setting an investment plan.

Investing more aggressively may yield more rewards but the

length of time available for investing also plays a part. A longer time horizon could give investors t he potential for compound growth. And setting specific goals can help to determine how much an investor should accumulate to support their goals.

Build a plan

Dwight D. Eisenhower may have said it best - “Plans are worthless, but planning is everything.” Even though a plan may need to be modified to adapt to changes, the very process of setting a plan will help investors to discover and focus on their most important investment goals.

For a plan to be useful, itʼs important for investors to clearly detail which goals they are trying to achieve. Some of an investorʼs goals will be shorter term, such as building a rainy day fund.

Investment and Insurance Products are:

• Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency

• Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate

• Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested

Intermediate-term goals might include buying a house or paying for a childʼs education. Longer-term goals might include planning for retirement and potentially leaving a legacy for charities or family.

Investor assets can then be matched to those various goals. For example, investors might own

short-term bonds to meet a nearterm expense, and a mixture of stocks and longer-term bonds to meet needs that are further in the future. The investorʼs risk tolerance will help determine the mix of more volatile assets — such a s stocks — to less volatile assets such as bonds.

Keep an eye on the long term

Once a plan is in place, itʼs important to maintain it over the long term. This process includes regularly rebalancing the portfolio if allocations move too far away from targets, a task that in many cases can be automated.

Maintenance also includes revisiting plans as investor goals or situations change. A plan is meant to be a living document. While market drops can be troublesome, unpredictable economic events have presented c hallenges in the past. With resilience and creativity, Americaʼs businesses and households have managed to overcome them.

While there are no guarantees that past performance will repeat itself, history has shown us that investors who reach their goals are often those who stick to their investment plans and take a long-term view of the markets.

This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing DirectorInvestments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.

hand, real estate is a valuable asset, one that should be protected and watched over especially when buying or selling. Our law firm provides expert services in handling real estate transactions and this expertise comes in part from having performed these services almost 2,000 times. We hope you don’t have to leave our area, but if you do we are ready to help you... from contract to closing.

On

Ninth Annual Tenafly Community Night Sept. 12

R esidents are invited to attend the 9th Annual Tenafly Community Night on Tuesday, S ept. 12 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Organizers told Northern Valley Press the event is to encourage residents to come out on a weekday night to meet and interact with local emergency services personnel and members of the Tenafly business community.

Come meet the local busi-

nesses and enjoy free food samples, giveaways, pop-up shows and live music.

Residents will have the opportunity to see close-up some of the equipment used by public safety personnel, including patrol cars, fire trucks, firefighting gear, ambulances and the equipment carried to calls.

Attendees will also receive preventative measures, tips and instructions to address some of

Republican meet & greet Oct. 17

The Republican Party of Old Tappan is hosting a Candidate Meet & Greet on Tuesday, Oct. 17 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Old Tappan Manor, 137 Orangeburg Road. Meet Thomas Gallagher for mayor, Ronald Binaghi Jr. and Christine Massaro for council.

Bring your concerns, ask questions, and understand your candidatesʼ position on issues that impact you, your family, and our community. For information and/or price of admission email annrandl@msn.com.

Anna Haverilla

the problems that affect residents such as burglaries, thefts, scams, false alarms, accidental fires, basic first aid tips, etc.

The Tenafly Recreation Department is collaborating with the Police to provide entertainment, amusement rides, giveaways, a DJ, contests and more.

The Tenafly Department of Public Works will assist the organizers with the set-up and breakdown of the various activity areas. The event will take place in front of the emergency services

complex on Riveredge Road between Foster and Tenafly Roads and in the borough parking l ot.

This is primarily an outdoor event.Rain date is Wednesday, S ept. 13. Parking is limited in the immediate area, so plan accordingly to attend the event.

Organizers say, “This year, we are honored to have the 9/11 Tunnel to Towers Foundation Mobile Museum at our Community Night event.Tours will be given by FDNY firefighters who

were eyewitnesses to history and will be on site to provide firsthand accounts of what happened on Sept. 11, 2001.

The 1,100-square-foot mobile exhibit will be located in the Fire Department parking lot from 5 to 8 p.m.Please join us for this historical event.”

To participate, or for more information, write tenaflycommunitynight@gmail.com. Also check out the boroughʼs website and message board.

A moment from Tenafly Community Night in 2019. Hillary Viders/file.

FROM PAGE 1

Kenny told Northern Valley Press, “Itʼs a wonderful event because everyone feels free to express their talent.”

Kenny was accompanied by John Shea on drums, Michael

Conti on keyboard, Brian Neville and Joe Hereghty on guitar and vocals, and guest musician Greg Livingston on electric guitar.

Councilman Howard Lau and Haworth Middle School students worked the hot dog cart. Concessions also included pizza, water,

and glow sticks. This was Lauʼs first year par-

ticipating in the Jam. He told us he loved it: “With all the anxiety in the world today, upbeat events like this are a great way to relax and enjoy our community. It also helps the young performers build confidence.”

Midsummer Nightʼs Jam is funded by the town of Haworth and donations from local families

wide variety of acts. Several y oung performers made their debut at the jam, such as Morgan Dearing, a 9th grader at Northern Valley–Demarest High School. Dearing said she was excited but not at all nervous: “A lot of my friends are here!”

Also making her debut: rising

and businesses. Proceeds support the work of the Haworth Arts Committee — including its popular Coffee House Open Mic — throughout the year

Fun for all

This yearʼs Jam featured a

star 10-year-old Francesca Scarpati, who starred as Little Bear in a Porchlight Production of “Shrek Jr.” and plays drums and studies dance. She sang Never Enough to rousing applause.

Jam newcomer Julia Longer Hurst, 11, sang Riptide.

Ayo Sowore, a vocalist and leader of Jazz Rock at Dwight

Englewood Schoolʼs elite Contemporary Music Ensemble, came with her entire family With poise and dramatic flair, she sang Creep by Radiohead.

There were seasoned vocalists, such as 13-year-old Lauren Szukics, who sang All Of Me Szukics has been performing in musical theater for seven years and has starred in Porchlight Productions.

Other standout performers: Ava Bevilacqua, who sang Hallelujah; Wendy Bain; Gay Willis; Alexa Weiss; and Maddy Cohen.

Back by popular demand was the rock band Hay-Worth Neighbors, locals including Art Zo, Greg Holden, Greg Livingston, Fred Brignola, and Dr Ralph Napoli.

The program closed with a rousing group “Shoreline Anthem,” a medley of music styles,

songs.

including original

— Story and photos by Hillary Viders

Front to back, left to right: Francesca Scarpati, Julia Langer Hurst, Ava Bevilacqua, Lauren Szukics, Alexa Weiss, Carol Kenny, Ayo Sowore, and Haworth Arts Committee Chair Claudia Gaard. Hillary Viders photos.

Illustrious music leader Carol Kenny with two of her students, Ava Bevilacqua and Lauren Szukics.

Morgan Dearing in a heartfelt rendition of Easy on Me

Julia Langer Hurst’s grandparents were thrilled at her performance.

Ayo Sowore’s proud

hear her sing at the concert.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

Put ‘dental visit’ on your back-to-school list

Along with an annual physical, new clothes, and backpacks, a visit to the dentist helps ensure that your childʼs education and development wonʼt be interrupted by oral health problems. After all, dental disease is the most prevalent childhood disease!

Back-to-school dental care can help prevent dental emergencies and missed valuable school days, while giving kids more confident smiles — all year long.

In a study published in the Journal of Pediatrics it was concluded that dental problems were significantly associated with reductions in school performance and psychosocial well-being.

Children with undiagnosed dental problems and infections were more likely to have problems at school, miss school and were less likely to do all required homework. This was prevalent with children 14 years and younger, since this age group seldom complains to their parents about dental pain.

Dental malocclusion (crooked teeth) were also associated with shyness, unhappiness, feeling of worthlessness, and reduced friendliness. The effects of dental malocclusion were largest for adolescents aged 15–17. The study concluded that preventing and treating dental problems and improving dental health may benefit a childʼs academic achievement, cognitive and psychosocial development.

Here are some things that can be done to ensure your childʼs teeth and gums are healthy and that they grow up to have a more positive and enjoyable experience with their dental home.

• Healthy smiles start at home. Serve as a good role model by practicing good dental hygiene habits yourself.

• Make sure your children brush and floss daily. A diet light on sugary snacks and drinks and rich in raw fruits and vegetables goes a long way towards maintaining good oral and overall health.

• Schedule routine dental exam and professional cleanings twice a year with a pediatric dentist. Food and decay-causing plaque are easily trapped in between teeth and in the deep grooves of the chewing surfaces of teeth. Even if your child brushes and flosses well, itʼs important that he/she has a professional cleaning to prevent cavities from forming in those hard-to-clean areas. A thorough dental exam can catch early decay, preventing pain, infections and more expensive procedures.

Best time to schedule a dental appointment with a pediatric dentist

Time of day can make or break your childʼs appointment. Itʼs important for a child of any age whoʼs used to a nap to not schedule during naptime. If your child is always cranky after waking up, factor that in too.

For older children, avoid cramming in a dentist appointment right after day camp or school. Not all kids have the energy to do that. I will have parents who want to do very elaborate operative (fillings) work after school because thatʼs when the kids can come out.

But if the child has already been exhausted or had a bad day or had tests, they just may not have the stamina or positive energy to make it through the appointment successfully. For the convenience of our patients, we have Saturday hours.

Make one child a model

If youʼve scheduled back-toback appointments for your children, thereʼs a simple way to decide who goes first: Choose the child whoʼs had the most positive experiences at the dentist. Every child is going to be a little bit different in their temperament about how they approach a visit. you generally want the ones first who are more successful because the others get to see how it goes.

Leave Your Anxiety at the Door

If your heart races at the very thought of the dentist, your child

can probably tell. Kids pick up on parentsʼanxiety. Itʼs important with kids, especially at 4, 5 and 6, because I believe the phobic adults are the ones who had bad experiences when they were that age. Today a childʼs dental experience can actually be focused around being more fun and engaging.

The younger your kids are, the more you need to be aware of how youʼre communicating with them. For example, if your child asks about getting a cavity filled, donʼt say, “It will only hurt for a little bit.” Instead, encourage your child to ask the dentist. With any child, you want them to be able to feel successful at accomplishing a good visit and link that positive feeling with the idea that their teeth are strong and healthy so they have that message going forward for the rest of their lives.

Keep cool if your child wonʼt cooperate If your child gets upset during his/her visit, the worst thing you can do is swoop them out of the chair and leave. The next visit is

going to be harder. You still have to help them get through another visit.

Allow the doctor to assess why your child is acting out. Are they truly afraid, or are they trying to test the situation? One of the reasons I think a 4-, 5- or 6-year-old gets upset is because they think theyʼre going to be asked to do something they canʼt be successful at. Theyʼre in an environment they feel they canʼt control and that makes them upset, so we try to break it down into small steps.

If your childʼs dentist allows parents to be present during the visit, work as a team with your dentist to keep the visit going. Let the dentist lead the conversation and advise you when its most appropriate for you to help if needed, while still allowing the dentist and your child to build a good relationship. Give the dentist every opportunity to turn the visit around.

Take a card (or three) on your way out

In fact, our office has magnets you can put on your refrigerator door Accidents can happen whether your child is in sports camp, gym class or just walking down the

street. In case of emergency, make sure your childʼs teachers and coaches have all the medical contact information they need — including your dentistʼs number.

Grab business cards for your wallet, your childʼs backpack and your schoolʼs files. Parents should be very aware of accidents and make sure that wherever they go that they bring the number of their dentist so that if a child has an accident, they can certainly call the office.

In fact, we treat dental related school accidents all the time. Make sure your kids start their school year right. Give your local Pediatric dentist a call.

Dr Darren Tong is a pediatric dentist who lives in Old Tappan with his wife, Dr. Mariliza Lacap and their five children. They are graduates of Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery and are owners of Smile More Dentistry. 140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan, N.Y. (845) 359-1763 DentistTappan.com. Their second location is Washington Dental, 19 Drive, Bergenfield. (201) 384-2425 WashingtonDentalNJ.com.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Take care of your health now, don’t suffer later

Preventing health conditions is more effective than trying to cure the problem after it occurs. For example, diabetes is one of the leading causes of Alzheimer's disease and one of the biggest comorbidities of Covid. When reviewing blood work, a typical diagnosis of diabetes occurs after the fasting glucose levels are over 126 mg/dL. However, in my opinion, if your levels are greater than 100 mg/dL, it is time to take immediate action.

In addition, bloodwork may also reveal a test called Hemoglobin A1C, which is basically an average of the past 3 months of your levels. If your test shows your levels are above 6.4%, then you will be diagnosed with diabetes, however, results above 5.7% are reason for concern. The good news is that, depending on the severity of your condition, you can usually reverse diabetes within a few months by simply

eating an earth diet, exercising everyday, drinking lots of water, not eating 4 hours before bed, and going to bed at least two hours before midnight. If you bring your diabetes numbers back to normal, you will greatly reduce your chances of developing Alzheimer's disease later in life, as well as a multitude of other health benefits.

Another interesting neurological condition that can be prevented with early intervention is multiple sclerosis or MS. This is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks its own brain, eyes, body and nerves creating vision loss, pain, fatigue, and impaired coordination. When looking at brain imaging, there will be white spots on the brain which occur as a result of inflammation of the brain and building of scar tissue.

To be diagnosed with MS, you must have multiple brain lesions, however, in my opinion, if you see any scar tissue or brain inflammation, the time to start working on your brain is now. Do not wait for more lesions, more scar tissue, more inflammation or an official diagnosis to start working on your health. The easiest way to improve the nerve signal and prevent

Teens: Camp smarts

FROM PAGE 9

STEM fields, including two who joined NASAʼs Mars Exploration Program. The Pine Mountain scholarships were paid for by multiple foundations interested in promoting environmental science education.

After this successful first summer, SFIC plans to send more students to Kentucky next year.

For more information on the Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children, visit sficnj.org

The Archdiocese of Newark

serves 1.3 million Catholics throughout Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Union counties. The Archdiocese has 212 parishes, 73 Catholic schools, and many missions and ministries.

Hundreds of Masses are celebrated in more than a dozen languages each week. Cardinal

Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., the sixth archbishop of Newark, leads the Archdiocese with four auxiliary bishops. Together, they serve the northern New Jersey community through faith, education, and social services. Visit rcan.org

the body from attacking itself is to avoid foods that create an autoimmune response. The most common autoimmune foods to avoid are dairy, gluten, soy, corn, coffee, and alcohol. This applies not only for MS, but also for other autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto's, Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis, Celiac disease, Sjogren's, Grave's, Fibromyalgia, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

After you change your diet and reduce inflammation, the next step is to increase fat because the nerves are covered in fat, and that helps the nerve signals improve drastically. Keep in mind that it is important to eat healthy fats such as avocado, nuts, seeds, fish, olives, and coconut, and stay away from unhealthy fats such as milk, butter, margarine, meat, and poultry.

Another harmful fat is called trans fat and that can be found in cakes, cookies, pies, chips, popcorn, pizza, biscuits, rolls, french fries, doughnuts, and creamers.

In addition to preventing neurological disorders, it is important to prevent cardiovascular disorders as well. Heart disease and stroke are the number one killer in America. More than 800,000 people in the United States die from cardiovascular disease every year, with many being under the age of 65 years of age, and is one of the biggest comorbidities of Covid as well.

The modern medical model has many people on high blood pressure meds, blood thinners, and statin drugs to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels in hopes of preventing stroke or heart attack. In my opinion, it is better to get to the root cause of the problem. Even if everyone in your family has heart disease, you can make lifestyle changes to prevent it from progressing and prevent it from causing major health issues. Taking blood thinners, including baby aspirin, will lead to less clotting and more bleeding.

If this bleeding occurs internally, you might not be aware. When making a medical decision, sit down with your doctor and review the benefits and the risks of each medical intervention to see what is the safest way to progress.

Most laboratories that perform blood work state that if the cholesterol level is above 200mg/DL, it is too high, and therefore, the patient might be recommended to take statin drugs to treat the high cholesterol.

However, when evaluating blood work it is important to look at the good cholesterol, the bad cholesterol, and the ratio of the good to the bad, as well. Cholesterol is very important and has a lot of positive benefits so taking medications to bring your cholesterol down may also be dangerous. Cholesterol is needed to help build the structure of your cell membranes, to make hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, to help with digestion and metabolism, and also, it is essential to produce Vitamin D. Vitamin D is the most significant Vitamin in regards to Covid19 as well. Researchers are finding that people are more likely to die from this coronavirus if their Vitamin D levels are low. If you are taking cholesterol medications, it is very important to make sure your cholesterol levels do not go too low, and also make sure the Vitamin D levels are normal as well.

With every condition, it is important to get to the root cause of the problem. Most cardiovascular conditions can be reversed very quickly by eating an anti-inflammatory diet, exercising daily, drinking a lot of water, going to bed early, and reducing emotional stress. We have this amazing human body that is meant to function well completely on its own. I believe that the USA is one of the sickest countries in the world because of bad habits and too much medical intervention. The power that makes the body heals the body.

Lastly, let us talk about cancer. After heart disease, cancer is the next leading cause of death. Cancer loves sugar, so the first step to preventing

cancer is eliminating sugar from your diet. When I say sugar I do not mean fruit, but I am talking about cane sugar, high fructose corn syrup, sweeteners and artificial flavors. Sugar is actually more addictive than cocaine.

Since sugar is so addictive, the only way to stop eating sugar is to go cold turkey. If you have a cheat day during the week, the brain will crave it more. If you avoid it completely, eventually the cravings will go away. The best advice I give to my patients is to not have any sugar at home. If it is not in the house, you are a lot less likely to give in to the temptation.

Another way to prevent cancer is to reduce emotional stress. Sometimes, you have to make major changes in your life such as quitting a job, getting out of a bad relationship, or moving out of a stressful living situation. In addition, practicing daily habits such as mindfulness, meditation, drinking water, writing in a gratitude journal, exercise, charity, prayer, spirituality, breathing exercises, and helping others will also help to reduce stress levels, boost your immune system and prevent cancer from ever occurring in the first place.

Take care of your health now. Do not wait until you get heart disease, cancer, diabetes, MS, stroke, or Covid19 before you work on your health. The time is now. Avoid chemicals, eat healthy, exercise daily, drink lots of water, go out in the sun, go to bed early, and reduce emotional stress to function better, feel better, and live better. If you are interested in learning about natural ways to reduce inflammation and disease, I am offering a completely physical and neurological evaluation (normally $500) for only $21. I will check your brain, body, lungs, heart, and gut and discuss natural and holistic ways to help without drugs or surgery. Please call 201-261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to reserve your spot immediately! Check out my website www.kaplandc.com for more information.

New Location In Your Neighborhood

New Location In Your Neighborhood

Dr. Jennifer Chin, DMD

651 WESTWOOD AVE., RIVER VALE (551) 588-2720

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

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 P passionate 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 ard to provide a comfortable, friendly environment at the Vein 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

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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, (201)262-VEIN (8346).

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

NOW OPEN IN WESTWOOD

Joey’s Fund 9th Annual Classic Car Show Oct. 1

Joeyʼs Fund is pleased to announce that last yearʼs car show raised $13,500 in donations — total of $50,500 since 2018 for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Joeyʼs Fund annually donates $600 to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital and Make-AWish Foundation, and donates $300 annually to the American Red Cross.

This year Joeyʼs Fund has also donated $1,500 to Johns Hopkins All Childrenʼs Hospital of Florida.

The 9th Annual Classic Car Show will be held on Oct. 1 at Closter Plaza from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rain date Oct. 8). The show fea-

Tenafly Board of Education meeting dates

Hereʼs the schedule of remaining public meetings (work sessions and regular meetings) for the BOE. All meetings begin with a closed session at approximately 6 p.m. and an open session immediately following at approximately 7 at the Hegelein Building, 500 Tenafly Road. Regular meetings are Mondays,Aug. 21, Sept. 11, Oct. 16, Nov. 20, and Dec. 11.

Annual reorganization of the board is set for Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024.

tures classic cars, a DJ, door prizes and trophies for car registrants, a 50/50, over a dozen raffle items, food trucks, vendors, and fun games for all.

This is an approved organization under the 501(c)(3) section of the Internal Revenue Code. All proceeds are donated to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care Center of New York, St. Jude Childrenʼs Hospital, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, American Red Cross, Ronald McDonald House of Florida, and Johns Hopkins All Childrenʼs Hospital of Florida to help families

with all who have life threatening illnesses.

Founder Tony DeCarlo told Northern Valley Press on Aug. 1, “We are extremely thankful to all of those who have participated and we hope to see them all again this year for yet another successful event in support of all of these wonderful non-profit organizations.”

DeCarlo said, “In an effort to provide ongoing relief to struggling families suffering from these financial/medical hardships, we are asking our valued friends, neighbors, and proprietors for their spon-

sorship in helping us pay it forward.”

Whether you are a car enthusiast looking for some friendly competition, a business looking to make a donation, a person looking to donate your time or money to this cause, or a vendor interested in pitching in for the event, email us donations@joeyscharityfund.org You can also visit joeyscharityfund.org to make a donation and learn more about this organizationʼs dedication to make a difference.

To reduce hardships, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

(MSK) has two funds. The Financial Assistance Program (FAP) addresses the medical costs of cancer treatment not covered by insurance, such as co-pays and deductibles.

The Social Work Patient Fund helps MSK patients and their loved ones with the nonmedical costs of cancer treatment, such as transportation, parking, housing for out-of-town patients, and childcare or eldercare, as well as other expenses,such as onetime payments toward rent, a mortgage, utilities, and other bills.

A bird’s eye view of Joey’s Fund’s 8th Annual Classic Car Show.Trophies few fast and furious! File photo

TENAFLY

Rising: OT’s Ariya Suwan a top U.S. junior diver

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ple categories in the USA Diving Junior National Championships.

Ariyaʼs mom, Kokoe TanakaSuwan, tells us “She was the youngest female diver to represent AAUʼs diving Team USA (at age 9), at international competitons in Sweden last fall. Based on her results this season, she will be invited to compete in international competitions this fall.”

Ariya told Northern Valley Press on Aug. 15, “I really liked gymnastics, but it was too hard on my body. I loved swimming too, and my grandma suggested diving instead. I love jumping on the springboard and feeling like Iʼm flying.”

Ariya said she learned everything at Pike Dive Academy (pikediveacademy.com) in the Township of Washington, and trains regularly at New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark and at Montclair State University.

Over the past two years she went from beginner to rising star, and is continuing to learn more difficult dives for each competition.

Kokoe Tanaka-Suwan said “Two years ago we found Pike Dive Academy [via Google] and Ariya fell in love with it right away. Her coach, Dora Fyfe, is the head coach and owner of the academy, and she really took to it. She trains six days a week with what they call the elite team at Pike Dive Academy.”

Tanaka-Suwan explained that Ariya tried a number of sports growing up, but none really called to her

the way that diving has. During the pandemic Ariya was looking to try something new, and they found it at Pike Dive Academy, which offers year-round recreational and competitve team programs, and a supportive community.

“Diving is kind of like a combination of gymnastics and swimming,” she said, “They do a lot of trampoline training, dry land training, and of course pool training.”

According to Ariya, learning to dive is far from easy, and takes many hours of training.

“I do this dive that is a back one-and-a-half, like one-semi flip and then turning back the other way into a dive,” Ariya says. “I had a lot of trouble with it a year ago and stopped doing it for a while. But this year I did it in a competition and it was really good.”

Ariya competes in the under-11

Since starting out in competitive diving in 2020,amid the pandemic, Old Tappan resident Ariya Suwan has emerged as one of the top junior divers in the country,competing alongside Team USA in Sweden,and traveling to AAU competitions all over the United States.And she has fun,too. Pike Dive Academy and courtesy photos

age category at all of her dive meets, as well as the national championships, but as she gets older sheʼll certainly feel the increased pressure and challenge — of competition.

“I have to get more new dives because Iʼm going into a higher age category,” Ariya said. “Instead of six dives I have to do eight dives, so thatʼs going to be a lot harder.”

She said, “I met a lot of people when I was in Sweden, because they picked a group of us to come. All the girls in my age category were very nice. I met people from Texas, California, and Chicago, so it was a lot of fun.”

Her mom adds, “The Sweden trip opened Ariyaʼs eyes to the world

of diving. Her coach Dora has been integral in creating a positive pathway for her moving forward. Sheʼs very nurturing but sets high goals. She caters to Ariyaʼs needs and leads her in a way that she can really blossom.”

Dora Fyfe, Ariyaʼs primary coach, and owner of Pike Dive Academy, has helped train competitive divers for more than 30 years.

In 2019 she was hired as a diving coach at NJIT, and in her first season was named the CCSA 2020 Menʼs Diving Coach of the Year. Fyfe was head referee at the 2022 Ivy League Diving Championships, hosted at Harvard University. She also was Ecuadorian National Team dive coach and judge for the 2020 South American Games.

When asked about working with Fyfe, Ariya told Northern Valley Press, “My coach has very interesting strategies sometimes, but they always work. She uses letters to explain our body shape during dives: like, you have to jump up and tuck into a C and then kick out.”

As for next steps, training several times a week and entering middle school will certainly keep Ariya busy — but she says sheʼs determined to learn new dives and continue honing her skills.

Northern Valley Press contribitor Patrick Breen is editor-inchief of the Pop Culture Nerd podcast. Got a question? Comment? Story idea? Write northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net

Joey’s Fund 9th Annual Classic Car Show Oct. 1

Joeyʼs Fund is pleased to announce that last yearʼs car show raised $13,500 in donations — total of $50,500 since 2018 for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Joeyʼs Fund annually donates $600 to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research

Hospital and Make-A-Wish Foundation, and donates $300 annually to the American Red Cross.

This year Joeyʼs Fund has also donated $1,500 to Johns Hopkins All Childrenʼs Hospital of Florida.

The 9th Annual Classic Car

Call For A FREE Estimate!

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P/T Yard Attendant –Hillsdale DPW. Department of Public Works is seeking a responsible individual to man our recycling center and assist residents with their recycling drop off. Responsibilies include documenting visitiors, cleaning yard, emptying garbage cans, and other manual labor type tasks. Loader operating experience a plus. Pays $20 per hour. Mondays & Wednesdays 7AM-3PM. 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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PARAPROFESSIONAL AIDES AND SCHOOL LUNCH AIDES. Parttime/10-month positions. New competitive pay rate increase. Forward cover letter and current resume or district application to HR@rivervaleschools.com. River Vale Public Schools Office of the Superintendent, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. EOE.

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

Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County –Restore is at 121 Carver Ave. Westwood.

Show will be held on Oct. 1 at Closter Plaza from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rain date Oct. 8). The show features classic cars, a DJ, door prizes and trophies for car registrants, a 50/50, over a dozen raffle items, food trucks, vendors, and fun games.

This is an approved organization under the 501(c)(3) section of the Internal Revenue Code. All proceeds are donated to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care Center of New York, St. Jude Childrenʼs Hospital, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, American Red Cross, Ronald McDonald House of Florida, and Johns Hopkins All Childrenʼs Hospital of Florida to help families with all who have life threatening illnesses.

Founder Tony DeCarlo told Pascack Valley Press on Aug. 1, “We

are extremely thankful to all of those who have participated and we hope to see them all again this year for yet another successful event in support of all of these wonderful non-profit organizations.”

DeCarlo said, “In an effort to provide ongoing relief to struggling families suffering from these financial/medical hardships, we are asking our valued friends, neighbors, and proprietors for their sponsorship in helping us pay it forward.”

Whether you are a car enthusiast looking for friendly competition, a business looking to donate, a person looking to donate your time or money to this cause, or a vendor interested in pitching in, email us donations@joeyscharityfund.org

You can also visit joeyscharity-

fund.org to make a donation and learn more about this organizationʼs dedication to make a difference.

To reduce hardships, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) has two funds. The Financial Assistance Program (FAP) addresses the medical costs of cancer treatment not covered by insurance, such as co-pays and deductibles. The Social Work Patient Fund helps MSK patients and their loved ones with the nonmedical costs of cancer treatment, such as transportation, parking, housing for out-of-town patients, and childcare or eldercare, as well as other expenses,such as one-time payments toward rent, a mortgage, utilities, and other bills.

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PERMANENT AND SUBSTITUTE CROSSING GUARD POSITIONS, WESTOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT 101 WASHINGTON AVENUE - 201664-7000 ext. 152. You are off during the summer and all holidays during the school year. Must be able to work in all types of weather Uniform is provided. Pay is $17.00/hour.

Applications available at Police Headquarters. Westwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

Wanted To Buy: All records, instruments, guitars, drums, microphones, old stereos, ect. Call Tony 201-262-4970 or Cell 201509-7079.

Falasca's Friendly Service is seeking P/T Mechanic Exp. Preferred, motivated, Tires, Oil Changes & more. Call Carl at 201666-1414.

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trucks

running equipment

crews

yrs. min. Good pay & hours. Growing company. 201-664-3130.

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

The Borough of Northvale seeks a part-time Building Inspector/Building Subcode Official. Applicants must possess a valid NJ driver’s license and a valid Building Inspector HHS and Building Subcode Official licenses issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. A minimum of five years experience is preferred. Multi-discipline licenses a plus. Flexible hours, weekdays – 6 hours per week. Salary commensurate with experience. The Borough of Northvale is an equal opportunity employer. Applicant must be a NJ resident. Email resume and cover letter to Municipal Clerk Frances Weston at fweston@ northvalenj.org.

and various departments throughout the Borough. Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office are required. Interested Candidates should email their resume and must include salary requirements to the Borough Clerk, Denise Kohan at dkohan@hillsdalenj.org. The Borough of Hillsdale is an EOE and we reserve the right to conduct interviews as resumes are received. Please respond by September 15, 2023.

MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

Join our ever growing sales team as a Sales Associate for the Pascack Press and Northern Valley Press. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service.

SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net

Polish lady will clean your house, apt, office. Free estimate. Refs available. Call Maria at 201-4782236.

lakefront community, all access. New kitchen, more, gorgeous! $1,500 covers all. 201-819-4780.

Caregiver seeks position for mornings, 8 a.m to 2 p.m., M–F. Experienced, with refs. Fully vaccinated. Please call 201-281-9853.

Caregivers seek position for evenings, weekends, overnight and live-in. Experienced, with references. Fully vaccinated. Call 201-823-7923.

caregiver. Please phone 347-638-7809.