Pascack Press 2.20.23

MORE SHAKEUPIN HILLSDALE; CFO BAILS ON ‘INTERFERENCE’

Mayor Ruocco says he wonʼt seek a third term

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Former town business administrator Christopher Tietjen, who resigned after two years to take a similar position in Wayne in January 2022, will return as interim part-time chief municipal finance officer following the resignation of town chief finance officer Sheryl A. Luna in early February.

Tietjenʼs appointment, which council approved in a revised resolution Feb. 14, starts Feb. 21 and shall expire at the councilʼs discretion.

Meanwhile, Republican Mayor John Ruocco, citing frustration with

See MORE on page 14

WESTWOOD REALLY COOKS

WESTWOOD

Rec preschool first to use centerʼs renovated kitchen

PASCACK VALLEY

COOKS PVR DANCE TEAM ’23 CHAMPS

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Congratulations to the Pascack Valley Regional Dance Team for placing first place in Small Varsity Pom at the elite Seventh Annual Dance Team Union National Championship.

The story could all but write itself at this point. This is a team well accustomed to winning. Over the past six years its national titles weigh in as:

• 2023 DTU Small Varsity

Pom National Champs;

• 2022 DTU Small Varsity

Pom National Champs;

• 2021 DTU Virtual Team Performance National Champions;

• 2020 DTU Small Varsity

Pom National Champs;

• 2019 DTU Team Performance National Champions; and

• 2018 DTU Small Varsity Pom National Champs and Varsity Team Performance National Champs.

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

THE WESTWOOD Recreation Department recently announced the grand opening of its newly reno-

vated commercial kitchen at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. The borough said the renovation was funded through its capital account and the Westwood Recreation Departmentʼs trust account.

Westwood residents architect William J. Martin and chef Ross Goldflam provided complementary oversight and professional services for the project.

Mayor Ray Arroyo posted

Continued on page 38

This yearʼs contest, Feb. 10–12 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando in Orlando, Fla., was, in Dance Team Unionʼs words, “an epic showdown of the best of the best.”

Each team routine that made it to the final round at nationals received a finalist trophy. All teams

See NATIONAL on page 30

Emerson Jr.-Sr. High School invites

to “Cinderella,” the musical.

ʻThe girls clickedʼas new hip-hop routine reigns in Orlando

Westwood Recreation preschoolers inaugurate the renovated Community Center kitchen, 55 Jefferson Ave., in January. Photo: Westwood Recreation Department.

HILLSDALE

PASCACK PRESS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

NOTE: Letter submission deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday for the following Monday’s paper. Publication not guaranteed. Subject to editing. Email topascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

Vote yes on school referendum

To the editor:

IAMWRITING today as a citizen of Hillsdale who supports the passing of the school referendum. I have been a resident of Hillsdale for 48 years. My children both graduated from the Hillsdale and Pascack Valley Schools. I also was a Hillsdale School Board member, 1989–1996.

There have been a few let-

ters printed recently opposing the passage of the referendum. R ather than attempt to correct some misinformation presented or propose reasons for the negativity, I choose to present some facts.

School boards are not allowed to spend taxpayersʼdollars on large capital projects without approval of the taxpayers. The yearly school budget which pays for the day-to-day expenses of the school system is limited in the percentage increase allowed. If the budget exceeds this amount, it also must go to a vote by the taxpayers.

George White School is 100 years old. Ov er the past 100

years, there have been numerous c hanges required. I am not knowledgeable about all of them but do know that in my years here there have been additions, room renovations, roof replacements, computer rooms added and plumbing repairs. Previous school boards have attempted to keep the building functioning the best that they could. The process of preparing for a capital question of any amount is an arduous one and not always positively received by the electorate.

School board members are unpaid volunteers who have decided to dedicate some of their personal time for what they

SpringFlingshoppingfunMarch25

Hillsdale United Methodist Church invites you to Spring Fling on Saturday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

The event is sponsored by The United Methodist Women, “who work all year long to raise funds for missions around the world. When you do your shopping at a local vendor event, you support local merchants and small businesses. Every year, there is a wonderful variety of gift ideas on display and a great group of local professionals anxiously awaiting your arrival.”

On offer: arts and crafts, jewelry, skin care products, and so much more. Admission is free. All are welcome.

Local businesses and organizations interested in participating should email Lesa Brinker at umwrocks@gmail.com

believe is the betterment of the community and the education of our children. They are lucky to have the professional guidance of the school districtʼs personnel who have the day to day experiences in dealing with the facility

Let’s all do our part against litter

To the editor:

WITHSPRING around the corner lots of animals will wake up from hibernation. It is time to get Park Ridge cleaned up. On Saturday, Feb. 11 I saw lots of plastic bottles and other trash at the water line at the Mill Pond. I asked my mom to take me to the pond so we could clean up trash. I picked up what I could on the path. We picked a full bag of trash. We were not able to pick up

and the need of our children. This particular project has been in process for three years. Various professionals have reviewed our facilities, evaluat-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Courtesy photos

all the trash because it isnʼt easy to get down there and there was a fence.

Itʼs very bad to litter because not only is it bad for the animals and the environment but it also looks terrible. If you take a walk around the town you will probably see trash in the roads or sidewalks.

I am planing on picking up trash on my walk home from East Brook every day. Can you do the same? Letʼs clean up Park Ridge together.

James Parks, age 10 Park Ridge

HILLSDALE

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

When is a regulated waterway no longer a regulated waterway?

Thatʼs the question Meisten Street resident Michael Agnello posed to local officials and the answer appears to depend on who you talk to.

What happened to an easement that restricted the use of his backyard property for 40-plus years? Much to Agnelloʼs surprise, local officials told him recently that no such easement exists and that the waterway that runs behind his home is no longer a regulated waterway, if it ever was.

He heard the news from Township Administrator Mark C. DiCarlo at the Feb. 6 Council meeting. And DiCarlo promised then to visit Agnelloʼs property with the township engineer and additional proof backing up the non-regulated status of the waterway behind his property.

Moreover, DiCarlo told Agnello that “the best research” of engineers from Boswell were able to do on his property found that “there was no easement” on his property from the stream, even though their property surveys may show an easement.

The question of whether the unnamed tributary is a regulated waterway, or possibly a protected “C1” or higher-quality Category One waterway, may also play a role in the ongoing Zoning Board of Adjustment hearings on a 17,000-square-foot-plus strip mall

proposed by 660 Pascack Realty LLC for five lots at 660–682 Pascack Road, and adjoin the nonregulated waterway.

Agnello, of 667 Meisten, said that he had been told by county officials that the stream shows up on county maps listed as a ditch for the intersection improvement project.

He said he had no prior notice that the stream was not a stream or that it was no longer regulated under state law.

Agnello said a little over a decade ago he was told the waterway was still a state-regulated waterway, and he could not fill in any of his property near it as that might restrict the flow of the waterway.

He said he was told this when a prior application was made by the property owners — Seasons Catering — to construct a CVS convenience store on five lots at 660–682 Pascack Road.

That proposal was defeated about a decade ago. A new proposal by 660 Pascack Realty LLC (i.e. Seasons Catering) to construct a “neighborhood shopping plaza” on the nearby site with two commercial buildings and over 17,000 square feet of retail and commercial space, plus up to 11 businesses, is currently pending before the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

Agnello, and his Meisten Street neighbors, have opposed the proposed new retail shopping plaza. Nearby Northgate Condominium Association residents have also opposed the strip mall.

The 660 Pascack Realty LLC application seeks a use variance to

build commercial space in a single-family zone, plus other variances and waivers. Its fifth hearing is Feb. 28 before the Zoning Board.

Drainage basin now 48.2 acres

Now, Agnello questions how that same waterway behind his home — a tributary of the Musquapsink Brook — that used to drain water from about 55 acres now only drains from 48.2 acres, as approved in the state Department of Environmental Protection letter.

The letter indicates NJDEP approval of the new drainage basin dimensions and is included as part of 660 Pascack Realtyʼs proposal for its “4 Seasons Marketplace” mall.

From comments made by officials, and Meisten Street residents, the letterʼs existence seemed to catch many by surprise.

The Jan. 30, 2020 NJDEP letter says is that based on the DEPʼs “review of a drawing dated Oct. 20, 2018, unrevised 660 Pascack Road Parking Lot Block 2110, Lots 6-10, 660-682 Pascack Road Township of Washington County Of Bergen, New Jersey Site Plan for NJDEP FHA AD” Sheet No. AD-1 “indicates a Flood Hazard Area Permit is not required.”

Pascack Press requested a copy of the drawing cited by the letter for NJDEPʼs review. It did not arrive by press time.

Under Reason for Decision, the NJDEP letter states: “The stream has a drainage area of less than 50 (48.2) acres. This was confirmed with Najarian Associates using LIDAR data and a field

investigation. The water feature does not have a riparian zone associated with it,” the letter notes.

Generally, riparian zones, or restricted zones between land and the waterway, are used to protect the waterway from polluted runoff from paved surfaces.

The NJDEP letter was mailed to engineer Calisto Bertin, the current applicant engineer on the 4 Seasons Marketplace proposal, “in response to your letter received on Jan. 9, 2020 concern-

ing a proposed parking lot along an unnamed tributary to the Musquapsink Brook within Lot Nos. 6-10 of Block No. 2110, in Washington Township, Bergen County.”

However, hydrographic maps prepared by Bertin Engineering. (available on the Zoning Board website under 4 Seasons Town Square application documents) currently depict a “stream” going under Washing-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Bckintime... Bckintime...

‘March for Meals’ monthlong celebration

Support will help combat senior hunger, isolation in northern Bergen County

WESTWOOD

Meals on Wheels North Jersey announced on Feb. 10 that it will be participating in the 21st annual March for Meals — a monthlong nationwide celebration of Meal on Wheels and our senior neighbors who rely on this essential service to remain healthy and independent at home, now even more so amid a lingering pandemic and high inflation.

Meals on Wheels North Jerseyʼs celebration will include various activities throughout the month of March, including our Mayors for Meals program.

“Throughout the pandemic we have experienced an increase in the demand for our service,” said Jeanne Martin, executive director of Meals on Wheels North Jersey,

“We have been in awe of the outpouring of support so far, and

See MARCH on page 19

A Westwood schoolhouse of long ago

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS WESTWOOD

ASTODAYʼSKIDS get ready for a long PresidentsʼDay weekend, here is a look back at a long-ago school that was named for Honest Abe.

The kids in this early 20th century photo are posing on the front steps of the Lincoln School, which was built in 1900 near the corner of Mill Street and Third Avenue in Westwood.

The story of the Lincoln School began in the 1890s when the voters of Westwood approved the purchase of a strip of land 317 feet long on Third Avenue stretching back towards Fourth Avenue. On this site the Lincoln School was constructed. The two-story frame building made to house the boroughʼs elementary grades was erected at a cost of $9,000. This was the first school in town to have indoor plumbing and electric light.

The cornerstone was placed during a ceremony in February 1900 on what would have been Abraham Lincolnʼs 91st birthday. A big crowd of Westwood people came out dressed in their furs and overcoats on that cold day. When the school opened, total student enrollment was fewer than 185 children for all grades, from kindergarten through eighth.

In 1913 a new two-story brick structure took shape behind the Lincoln School, and classes were extended through grade 12. Westwood now had a high school in town for

the first time. The boroughʼs first high school class graduated in 1915. There were only 11 young men and women in that class, illustrating that many still believed an elementary education to be sufficient.

As the high school expanded, Lincoln School had to be moved. The old wooden schoolhouse was transferred to a new foundation along Fourth Avenue in 1922. It was later demolished in 1970.

The high school at Third and Mill became solely a middle school when the new regional high school opened up on Ridge-

wood Road in the Township of Washington in 1964. Eventually the junior high school followed suit and moved to the township location as well. The final class graduated from the middle school at Third and Mill in 1988.

The structure was demolished in 1994 and the Enclave condominium complex was constructed at the site.

Kristin Beuscher is president of Pascack Historical Society

The Lincoln School was built in 1900 near the corner of Mill Street and Third Avenue in Westwood.

46 ‘REDEVELOPMENTPLAN’ UNITS MOVEFORWARDFOR 188 BROADWAY

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFFLAKE

A redevelopment plan ordinance that will allow 46 housing units — 37 apartments and nine townhomes — at 188 Broadway was introduced by a 4-1 vote Feb. 13 and sent to the Planning Board to review for consistency with the recently updated borough master plan.

Councilwoman Josephine Higgins voted no on the ordinance introduction. Councilwoman Jacqueline Gadaleta was absent.

The Planning Board gets 4560 days to review the redevelopment plan, which only applies to the 188 Broadway siteʼs 3.3-acre property.

Mayor Carlos Rendo said residents will get a chance to comment on the redevelopment plan when the Planning Board considers it on March 13. He said the Planning Board is scheduled to send back its recommendations to the council in time for its March 20 meeting, when council will hold a public hearing on the redevelopment ordinance.

Officials said the ordinance and redevelopment plan should be up on the borough website within days for public inspection.

Prior efforts by 188 Broadway LP to develop the 188 Broadway site — once for 60 apartments and once for 53 apartments were both unanimously rejected by the Zoning Board in 2019 and 2021.

The Borough Council voted, 5-0, on Dec. 6 to approve a “memorandum of understanding” between 188 Broadway LP and the borough that calls on Wood-

cliff Lake to rezone the 188 Broadway site, based on a redevelopment plan to be approved by the Planning Board and Borough Council.

(See “Itʼs settled: 46 housing units at 188 Broadway,” Pascack Press, Michael Olohan, Dec. 12, 2022.)

The MOU calls for a 46-unit development on the site, converting the existing office building into 37 rental apartments and constructing nine townhomes behind the rental apartments.

The agreements included a settlement with 188 Broadway LP, an agreement with Bergen County United Way to build and operate 24 affordable units at a North Broadway site, and an amended affordable housing settlement with Fair Share Housing Center.

Rendo previously said the agreements resolve all outstanding litigation, meet the boroughʼs Fair Share obligations, and may get the borough extra credits for housing at the proposed North Broadway site.

Moreover, Councilman Richard Schnoll, an attorney specializing in personal injury and commercial litigation, who was involved in negotiations, called

the settlements “a win, win, win for all the parties involved, especially for the town.”

The agreement resolves all outstanding litigation between the borough and 188 Broadway LP, which included: a state court suit

WOODCLIFF LAKE

against the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the denial of a 60unit proposal in 2019; Federal court litigation resulting from the second Zoning Board denial in 2021; real estate tax appeals for several years relating to 188

Broadway; and a lawsuit pending against the building department.

The MOU approved by council follows months of behind-the-scenes negotiations between borough attorneys, 188

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

DOING THEIR PART

The Woodcliff Lake Fire Department raised more than $2,500 for cancer research this past fall, with T-shirt sales supporting the John Theurer Cancer Center. On Thursday, Jan. 26 the WLFD was able to make that donation. Members say, “Thank you to all who participated!”

Council hears police dispatch proposals

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Borough officials heard presentations Feb. 7 from two regional emergency dispatch centers — and appeals from four local dispatchers as the mayor and council considered options to reduce increasing costs to operate its municipal police dispatch system.

Officials made no decisions but are likely to decide soon as the 2023-2024 municipal budget comes together and cost-cutting is needed to offset mandated budget increases in contractual wage increases, garbage/recycling collection, and health insurance.

Police Capt. Mark Savino and Police Chief Michael Mazzeo told the council that since an initial discussion of possible outsourcing police dispatch in 2019, theyʼre hired, trained and lost 15 dispatchers who moved on to other higherpaying careers, including police officers.

Mayor Danielle DiPaola said all totaled, the annual cost for police dispatch services is $325,900, or approximately $27,158 monthly. Savino confirmed that amount.

Savino said many individuals trained as dispatchers use the dispatch position as a “stepping stone” to other positions. Due to dispatchers leaving, Savino said police officers were forced to step in and cover 197 hours of dispatch overtime, costing $17,937.49 in 2022.

Savino said so far in 2023, patrol officers have covered 113 hours of dispatch time at an overtime cost of $9,932.70, about onethird of police overtime to date.

Moreover, dispatchers have worked 100 hours of overtime for a cost of $12,929.66.

Savino said dispatchersʼstarting salary was recently raised to $23.00 per hour to attract more applicants, and while 11 individuals applied, only four were qualified, and only two showed up for interviews.

He said police academy training for dispatchers takes six to eight weeks to get fully trained to handle emergency calls.

He said the 2023 budget for dispatch includes $209,845

(salaries and wages); health benefits ($73,555); FICA, $16,000; and police overtime, $25.000. He said already in 2023, police overtime for dispatch has cost $13,000.

Mazzeo said, “The only way

we can move forward with this is if there is significant savings” from outsourcing, noting the goal of dispatch is “to provide the best service” to residents and first

Curtain rises on students’ ‘Cinderella’

Students from the Emerson Jr.-Sr. High School invite you to their performance of Rodgers & Hammersteinʼs production of “Cinderella,” a musical with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II.

Evening performances are March 3, 4, 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m.; matinee performances are Sunday, March 5 and Saturday, March 11 at 2 p.m. at the school, 131 Main St.

“Cinderella” the musical tells the story of a girl forced into a life of servitude by her wickedly cruel stepmother and stepsisters.

The town crier announces a royal ball at which the prince of the kingdom intends to find a bride, and Cinderella, who dreams of a better life, wishes she could attend.

When her stepsisters and stepmother go off to the ball, a Fairy Godmother appears and magically grants Cinderellaʼs wish.

At the ball, Cinderella and the prince meet and instantly fall in love, but she abruptly excuses herself at midnight, leaving only a glass slipper on the palace steps.

After an extensive search throughout the kingdom, the Prince and Cinderella are magically reunited and blissfully married.

As adapted for the stage, with great warmth and more than a touch of hilarity, this romantic fairy tale still warms the hearts of children and adults alike. This Enchanted Edition is inspired by the 1997 teleplay starring Brandy and Whitney Houston.

Emersonʼs musical production is co-directed and -choreographed by Bill Ullman, Lisa Ullman, and Emily Burns.

Adult/senior citizen tickets are $15. Emerson student tickets are $5 if purchased in advance or $10 at the door.

The 2 p.m. Sunday, March 5 matinee is available to Emerson senior citizens free of charge. You can purchase tickets online at payschoolsevents.com/events/details /25100 Online ticket sales end 90 minutes before each performance. Matinee performances are general admission, no assigned seating.

Call Roseann DeFlora at the high school main office, at (201) 262-4447 ext. 1302, for pre-purchase of tickets Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Pool registration will be conducted electronically this year using Community Pass. Visit our website at www.parkridgeboro.com for registration details. A limited number of registration packets will be available at the pool located at 123 Colony Ave. weekends beginning on May 6 from noon till 3pm.

EMERSON

From left to right: Madeline Praschil (Cinderella),Billy Bollbach (Prince), Sherry Hausman (Stepmother),and Sarah Walsh (Cinderella).

houses face deadline on repairs

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

A new code enforcement officer has issued at least seven property code violations to properties causing public nuisances including three vacant, decrepit properties at the Pascack–Washington intersection, and one to 450 Pascack Road, a rundown home marked by a blue tarp and a collapsing front porch roof.

All seven properties were cited as nuisance properties in violation of Township Code 360-29.

“The dilapidated appearance or other condition of the property materially affects the welfare, including the economic welfare of the residents for the area in close proximity to the property, and the owner has failed to take reasonable and necessary measures to remedy the conditions. For further clarification, please contact my office,” read the violation notices issued.

The “compliance due date” is March 6, 2023 for all seven violations issued.

“It is necessary to perform

corrective actions before the compliance date. Another inspection will be conducted on or immediately after the compliance date to verify compliance,” reads the violation notice signed by Dino DeVirgilio, township code enforcement officer.

The three Pascack Road homes near the Pascack–Washington nexus include 664 Pascack, 666 Pascack and 674 Pascack. These three properties, and lots, have long been vacant, and for over a year, have featured red and white “X” marks across entry doors indicating they are hazardous and no one should enter.

(Related: “Vacant houses and

the law,” Michael Olohan, Dec. 13, 2021.)

They now lie closer to the busy Pascack–Washington intersection following county road improvements there, including additional pass-through and turning lanes.

The properties are part of the five lots (660-682 Pascack Road) owned by 660 Pascack Realty LLC (Seasons Catering) being proposed for a 17,000 square-foot-plus strip mall.

The 450 Pascack Road property, part of a 3.2-acre sliver of mostly wooded land between Ridgewood Boulevard East and Washington Elementary School and Memo-

rial Field, remains at the center of closed session Township Council debate over its potential purchase.

Neighbors want the 450 Pascack property purchased and pre-

served while current council members appear less worried about development and more with cost and future benefit.

In summer 2021, the township bid $430,000 for the property.

An “Available” sign was put on the front lawn in late 2021; the owners were asking up to $2.1 million for the siteʼs “development potential” on high-end property marketing sites.

Other nuisance properties cited included 101 Pascack Road; 680 McKinley Avenue; and 683 Van Emburgh Avenue.

Efforts to reach DeVirgilio to find out possible penalties were not returned by press time.

Pinning: Resident seeks answers on easement

FROM PAGE 3

ton Avenue from behind the Meisten Street properties.

(The proposed retail project is referred to as “4 Seasons Marketplace” and “Four Seasons Town Square” in application documents.)

The map also shows areas behind the Meisten Street properties — including Agnelloʼs property — that lie adjacent to the stream as a “floodway” and as part of a “flood hazard area” slightly further away from the stream.

Agnello wrote a letter to local officials (sent to Pascack Press) in mid-December asking why his property survey shows a 200-foot easement on the unnamed waterway behind his home and said he had been told for 40-plus years that NJDEP “controls any changes made within 200 feet of that easement.”

“I asked to be explained exactly how and what had changed that the DEP no longer governs the waterway. I am under the understanding that the drainage area was changed … to

now what is calculated as 48 acres. Thatʼs a parcel of land that no longer exists. Where did it go? Where is that water?” Agnello said.

He also charged that the propertiesʼland elevation behind the five lots at 660–682 Pascack Road had been raised by prior spreading of soil around behind them.

Officials have previously said this did not occur but recent soil spreading has occurred near the front, side and rear of 664 Pascack Roadʼs property due to ongoing county intersection upgrades.

Township attorney Kenneth Poller suggested that a property title search would quickly resolve the question of whether an easement ever existed on Agnelloʼs property.

He said officials or Agnello should check if the easement was listed on a tax map, or a plat, suggesting there “had to be some documentation” of an easement.

Agnello also said that he believed around 15 years ago, a prior administration had applied to NJDEP to have the stream behind his home converted to a “C1” or Category One waterway.

Poller suggested that it may have been the former township engineer who applied for such designation, noting he did not recall taking any such action.

Councilman Thomas Sears also wondered how someone might be able to change a waterwayʼs designation if Agnelloʼs claims about the “C1” waterway

were correct.

Whether a “C1” designation was applied for — or was granted by NJDEP — was being looked into by DiCarlo, upon councilwoman Desserie Morganʼs request.

According to DEPʼs website, “Category One waters are high-quality waters designated through rulemaking for protection from measurable changes in water quality because of their exceptional ecological significance, exceptional water supply significance, exceptional recreational significance, and exceptional fisheries significance to protect and maintain their water quality, aesthetic value, and ecological integrity.”

Efforts to find the status of the tributary behind the Pascack Road properties by contacting NJDEP were not returned by press time.

Emerson: Police dispatch options in focus

FROM PAGE 6 responders.

Officials said the police department is on pace to use $60,000 for overtime to cover dispatch shifts.

Representatives from Northwest Bergen Central Regional Dispatch, Ridgewood, which handles fire department and 911 calls for Emerson, said they could provide an “all-inclusive” price (including police, fire, EMS, DPW and 911) for $280,000 annually, which was negotiable.

Central Dispatch Director Tom Pomroy said the service dispatches

for seven police departments, including Montvale, Park Ridge, Woodcliff Lake, Old Tappan and River Vale. The service lists 17 towns that it serves on its website.

Pomroy said the price is driven by the personnel it takes to serve the town. He noted River Vale and Old Tappan share a police channel and dispatcher.

Administrator Rob Hermansen wondered what the savings might be if Emerson was able to share a channel with River Vale and Old Tappan.

Officials estimated the cost could drop to $230,000, or less, and savings would also accrue to the

other two towns. Mazzeo said they would still need to hire a full-time police records clerk under the Central Dispatch proposal, which needed to be factored in.

Central Dispatch officials also said they had invested in technology upgrades to NextGen-ready infrastructure. Officials said current dispatchers could apply for jobs there but no employment was assured.

Frank DelVecchio, director, county Public Safety Operations Center (PSOC), which handles countywide emergency dispatch from Mahwah and Paramus facilities, said that total costs for year

Purim shpiel, Megillah reading March 6

Congregation Bʼnai Israel in Emerson presents its annual Purim Shpiel and Megillah Reading, directed by Cantor Lenny Mandel, on Monday, March 6 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The templeʼs Hebrew schoolers will perform original song parodies and up-to-date dialogue to tell the story of the Purim holiday in a fun and unique way.

All are encouraged to come in costume or a crazy hat to experience the jokes, silliness, and sing-

alongs that are traditional for the holiday. Rabbi Debra Orenstein will chant selections from the Book of Esther in Hebrew and English, eliciting boos (and the clamor of noisemakers) for Haman and cheers for Mordecai and Esther Hamantaschen (traditional Purim cookies) and other refreshments will be served. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for an ongoing food drive benefiting local food pantries.

All are welcome to this family-

friendly event. RSVP to the temple office at (201) 265-2272 by March 3 to be sure your name is on the guest list and to accommodate all attendees.

Congregation Bʼnai Israel, a place for connection, innovation, and inspiration, is at 53 Palisade Avenue in Emerson,down the road from the Emerson Public Library. For more information or directions, call (201) 265-2272, write office@bisrael.com, or visit bisrael.com

one are approximately $130,000, although initial costs are higher due to set-ups and recordkeeping required. An exact amount was not disclosed at the session.

He said every town thatʼs joined PSOC in the last eight years has re-signed with the county dispatch service. He said while jobs are not guaranteed for local dispatchers, all may apply to be hired. He said dispatchersʼstarting salary is about $39,500, and including holiday pay and perks adds up to about $46,000.

After moving nine salary steps, dispatchers can make top pay of $65,000, which equals about $76,000 with perks, noting that a dispatcher can be a career position, said DelVecchio.

He said the PSOC dispatchers can monitor police station visitors from remote cameras, as well as hook-up to local schoolsʼclosed circuit camera systems for school security checks and responding to incidents.

He said there was a onetime cost of $7,500 to hook to the

townʼs radio system, and noted all dispatchers know how to work for all towns being dispatched.

He said the county dispatchers were constantly monitoring police and emergency responses in covered towns and could easily communicate calls for assistance to nearby police or emergency services.

He said it takes about 90 days for a town to join the system due to technological upgrades needed between PSOC and local police.

Lastly, local police dispatchers told council members that they know the community well, its streets, residents, and best routes to expedite police responses. One dispatcher said they know the community and also provide emotional support to callers during high-stress emergencies.

Another dispatcher said that delays were common after a nearby local dispatch service was changed, noting that the delays could make a difference in response time and emergency outcomes.

EMERSON

Bergen County Prosecutor

Mark Musella announced the arrest of Mark Winters, 76, of Kennedy Terrace, for desecrating human remains and aggravated assault on law enforcement officers. The charges are the result of an investigation conducted by the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office under the direction of Chief Jason Love and the Westwood Police Department under the direction of

Chief Michael Pontillo.

At approximately 1 p.m., on Monday, Feb. 13, 2023, the Westwood Police Department responded to 25 Kennedy Terrace to conduct a welfare check of the resident. Officers were met at the front door by Winters who allowed them to enter the home.

While inside the residence, officers located the deceased remains of Joan Winters, 70, who

resided there with her brother, Mark. After the discovery of her remains, Mark Winters became confrontational with the officers and subsequently assaulted them.

The Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office Major Crimes Unit was notified and initiated an investigation with the Westwood Police Department, which revealed that Winters concealed his sisterʼs remains for a prolonged period of time in the residence.

An autopsy was conducted on

Feb. 14, and although the cause and manner of death are pending toxicological testing results, according to a preliminary investigation, the death does not appear to be suspicious.

As a result of the investigation, Winters was charged with second-degree desecration of human remains, N.J.S.A. 2C:221a(1); and two counts of fourthdegree aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(5)(a). Winters was

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

Musella states 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 Westwood Police Department and the Bergen County Sheriffʼs Department for their assistance in this investigation.

Nisonoff promoted to superintendent

PROFESSIONALS

Emerson Public Schools assistant superintendent/school business administrator Dr. Philip H. Nisonoff is slated for approval as the next superintendent of schools, effective July 1.

Following the Feb. 13 Board of Education meeting, the district will immediately undertake a search for his replacement as school business administrator.

Board president Ann Pressimone wrote families that night to say Nisonoff, now in his 30th year in Emerson, “has been a mainstay in the district, and his leadership over the years, combined with his deep knowledge of district policies and practices, has been instrumental in Emersonʼs continued success.”

Pressimone said, “Please

note that the terms of Dr. Nisonoffʼs agreement are still under review as required by the Bergen County Department of Education, but the Emerson Board of Education has received permission to make his appointment pending its expected approval.”

The office of the Assistant Superintendent/Business Administrator organizes and manages the resources that support and produce a high quality education for the students of Emerson.

These responsibilities include accounting, purchasing, payroll,

benefits, accounts payable, accounts receivable, budgeting, insurance, transportation, use of facilities, food service, building and grounds maintenance, custodian of public records, and investments for the district.

Longtime schools superintendent Brian P. Gatens wrote the community on Jan. 4 to announce with gratitude for opportunities heʼs had to help guide the districtʼs growth — that heʼs stepping down to start a new job in Leonia on July 1.

He said a replacement search would be under way.

The Emerson School District consists of some 1,200 students at three schools.

Staff report

EMERSON

NISONOFF

‘Home stretch,’ but trail’s Earth Day opening now uncertain

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

The Borough Council approved a resolution of support Feb. 14 for a long-proposed 1.5mile Woodcliff Lake Reservoir Nature Trail — due to open on Earth Day, April 22 — while expressing concerns about future trail security, required gates, record-keeping, and overall costs.

Officials said a scheduled meeting between Veolia Water and the three towns, including Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake, had not occurred since a December meeting. It also did not appear the other towns had passed support resolutions, nor signed the licensing agreement.

Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake officials, however, expressed

concern about what needed to be done between now and the nature trailʼs anticipated opening.

Mayor John Ruocco told Pascack Press he had asked the police chief, DPW superintendent, and borough attorney, and new administrator Michael Ghassali (who starts Feb. 21) “to be involved in seeing this to fruition. I am becoming more pessimistic, however, that this can be done by Earth Day.”

The council resolution reads, “The governing body of Hillsdale continues its strong support of the nature trail, and executing all necessary agreements to effectuate its use subject only to specific comment by the borough, the boroughʼs law enforcement personnel, and final review by the borough attorney. This resolution shall take effect immediately.”

The mayor and council dis-

Sundial Garden Club lecture March 6

The Sundial Garden Club is pleased to sponsor a presentation by photojournalist Bob Crane on his photo book“A Peek Inside — The Artistʼs Garden” on Monday, March 6, at 4 p.m.

The club meets at the Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave.

Crane, a devoted gardener and a member of the Riverview Garden Club of Wayne, has served as the program, activities, and trip chair, fundraising chair, and president.

Recently he entered his photo of a butterfly alighting on a butterfly bush in the Mountain Lakes Garden Club photography contest, placing first in the garden pollinators category and awarded best in show

His presentation is a visual garden wandering, exploring the

Journey into the world of macro photography with incredible images of flowers and butterflies with poetic quotations.The perfect book to inspire the gardener or artist! 70 pages,published May 20,2008.

essence of flowers and butterflies. Come and be inspired. The club welcomes all gardeners and would-be gardeners from the Pascack Valley

cussed concerns with the Veolia Nature Trail licensing agreement at its Feb. 7 meeting and again Feb. 14, raising concerns that the scheduled Earth Day opening appears uncertain.

Pascack Press has filed public records requests for a copy of the Veolia licensing agreement from the towns and Veolia, without success. Veolia officials said the towns should provide the agreement.

Council members, police chief Robert Francaviglia and borough attorney Mark Madaio had

questions Feb. 7 and all said they needed more information on final project costs as well as what security needs to be in place before the trail opens.

Madaio said he would reach out to Francaviglia to find out his concerns and Francaviglia said he would reach out to his counterparts in Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake to see where they stood on security needs for the trail.

Pascack Press asked Veolia about concerns expressed by Hillsdale regarding trail costs, trail

work needed and ongoing costs for security and maintenance.

Spokesperson Debra Vial replied Feb, 10: “The terms have long been agreed upon, with the municipalities required to install security cameras, gates, etc. and to patrol the area to protect both people on the trails and the watershed that is essential to all North Jersey residents. This is the plan they came to us with. You should track their progress.”

She added, “We are in con-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

ed the pros and cons of our current situation, prepared and subs equently presented different plans to a committee comprised of professional and community members.

The decision to replace the George White School was not made quickly or without serious d iscussions and consideration. The superintendent and his staff have worked diligently to present information to the public. There were numerous community meetings, an online forum, an open house and an informational brochure sent to all residents.

The building currently does not meet the needs of our students and as time goes on this situation will only continue to deteriorate. Hillsdale has always had an excellent school system. It is my belief that it is worth the investment for it to continue to be such.

If you currently have children a ttending, have had children who attended, or have even grad-

uated from these schools yourself, I hope you realize someone in the past paid for the experience you received.

I hope you will join me in voting yes to build for the future of our town and our children.

Leta Gordon Hillsdale

Property taxes in Westwood

To the editor:

LASTYEAR on my municipal tax statement, a pie chart shows areas where the money goes. No surprise that 60% goes to the school, about 10% goes to the county, and 1.4% to the public library. So there is no big surprise or puzzlement here. The surprise comes in the 29% left for the town to run its operations. Of the approximately $6 million (29%) left for the operation of the town, the police department in my town takes approximately $ 4.4

million, or 70% of the money left to run the town. It is no wonder the towns in our area have no money for the DPW, fixing curbs, and maintaining the infrastructure of the town. Thus they are constantly issuing bonds to cover any type of capital expenditure.

Wilhelm Auer Westwood

Editorʼs note: We appreciate Mr. Auer sharing his views. We ran his letter by Westwood Mayor RayArroyo for his perspective. He replied on Feb. 14:

IAPPRECIATE the letter writerʼs concern. Police departments represent the costliest operating portion of every local municipal budget, not just Westwoodʼs.

However, some of his numbers are not quite accurate. Westwoodʼs annual municipal budget is now approximately $20 million, not $6 million.

Thatʼs after county, school, and library taxes (set by NJ statue) are collected and disbursed to those three entities.

T he police departmentʼs allocation is approximately $4.2 million — roughly 21% “of the money left to run the town” (not

WFD busy in January

Fire Chief James Voorhis Sr. reports that the Westwood Fire Department was called 28 times for emergency assistance this January.

Voorhis reports that none of the calls turned out to be a serious fire in Westwood.

These 28 emergency calls six training sessions and one maintenance night required more than 400 hours of volunteer time.

The Westwood Fire Department responded to assist the Emerson fire department under the mutual aid agreement on one occasion.

Automatic fire alarms were received 10 times in January. Although no fires existed at any of these incidents, a full fire department response is required. Firefighters check the entire building to determine if an actual fire exists.

No cause for the alarm activation was found at four of the calls. Workers in the building caused one alarm. Cooking smoke caused one alarm. Detector or system malfunctions resulted in three alarm activations.

The department responded seven times to natural gas emergencies. Each time a full department response is required. Firefighters check the entire building with meters.

At one incident an oven was found to be malfunctioning, and fire crews shut the stove.

One incident was caused by a malfunctioning furnace. No gas readings were found at three other incidents.

As is standard procedure, gas incidents are turned over to PSE&G gas company technicians for further investigation.

Two carbon monoxide (CO) incidents occurred in January Readers are reminded that carbon monoxide, CO, is an odorless and colorless gas given off by improperly burning heating or cooking equipment. It can be fatal at high levels.

Each of these calls required a full fire department response. Fire crews check the buildings with meters to determine the cause.

At one incident, slight CO readings were detected, so fire crews vented the building with fans.

At the other incident fire crews found no readings. All incidents of this nature are turned over to PSE&G gas technicians for further investigation.

Other calls in the month were a grill fire that was out upon the departmentʼs arrival, a grass fire that was quickly extinguished by fire crews — and twice the fire department was called for citizens stuck in elevators. At each of these elevator calls the occupants were out when the fire department arrived.

Submitted by the Westwood Fire Department. Any Fire Department-related questions can be emailed to wwfdchief@westwoodnj.gov or by calling (201) 664-0526. The Fire Prevention Bureau can be reached at wfpb191@usa.net and (201) 664-7100 ext. 308. These numbers are for business/non-emergency use only For fire, police, and ambulance emergencies call 9-1-1.

“70%”). If the pension payment (another non-discretionary, statutory obligation) is included, the figure rises to $5.3 million and 27% of the municipal budget.

The assertion that there is “no money left over” for maintaining and improving infrastructure is belied by the $3.5 million Westwood spent on various capit al improvements in 2022, including road repair, new DPW and fire apparatus, as well as upgrades to our park and recreation facilities. Some of these project costs are offset by matching grants.

“Bonding” for capital improvements is a feature, not a bug, in municipal budgeting. Responsible borrowing is an appropriate fiscal tool that Westwoodʼs governing body has used judiciously.

Over the past seven years the governing body has reduced aggregate, outstanding debt by $ 2,360,807. We have lowered annual debt service (interest and principal payments) commensurately.

Local police services in the New York metropolitan area are not cheap. Contractual wage and benefit costs are baked in, year over year, once the PBA contract is settled. The individual towns cannot unilaterally reduce those costs without resorting to service cuts. Given the current trajectory of urban crime, winding its way into nearby Bergen County (car thefts, burglaries) and the publicʼs resultant unease, that would seem unwise at this time.

Mayor Ray Arroyo Westwood

Ruocco:‘I won’t seek third term’

To the editor:

IHAVE DECIDED not to seek the nomination of my party to run for a third term as Hillsdale mayor. It has been evident for some time that the council majority and I have very different views on how municipal

g overnment should operate. These extend to proper planning for capital projects, fiscal responsibility in spending, the need for greater transparency in communicating with and educating our residents, and the willingness to increase property taxes beyond what is needed.

T his difference of views u nfortunately led the council majority to change its bylaws in a manner completely at odds with the rest of New Jerseyʼs municipalities. These changes made it more difficult for the mayor to obtain information and to participate in committee discussions.

Individual council members encouraged borough officials not to share information with the mayor. They even postured that the mayor had no need to learn about developments until public council meetings, and that he should not spend time in Borough Hall because it would allegedly undermine the borough administrator and confuse department heads.

The councilʼs actions were intended to increase its own power at the expense of the mayor, restricting information from both the mayor and the public so as to avoid scrutiny and possible criticism.

No responsible mayor with an ounce of integrity and devotion to his sworn oath would be able to, let alone want to, operate under such punitive and misguided restrictions. They only stifle the expression of views and provide greater cover to those who do not wish to answer questions about excessive spending or favored projects. The councilʼs changes to the roles in town management have further worsened the turmoil that Hillsdale has experienced in town administration.

I have spent 47 years working to improve the lives of Americans, 38 of them with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and almost nine here in Hillsdale. It has been a rewarding public service career, but one with sacrifice both to me and my f amily. Although Iʼm blessed with good health and vigor, time and tide wait for no man. There are other endeavors that I wish to pursue that I could not, in

CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

WESTWOOD

More: Shakeup in Hillsdale as CMFObails, interim set

restrictions set for him by the council majority, also Republicans, told Pascack Press on Feb. 14 he wonʼt seek his partyʼs nomination for a third term. His term expires Dec. 31.

(See Letters, page 2.)

In addition, the council discussed short-term rentals, inviting Police chief Robert Francaviglia to comment; took on several other resolutions; and heard the mayorʼs report and those of members and borough professionals.

The council next meets March 7 at 7 p.m.

Tietjen left in January 2022

Last January, Tietjen and former DPW Superintendent William Haffler both resigned within days of each other. Tietjen has been serving

as qualified purchasing agent for the borough since February 2022 on a monthly $500 stipend.

Tietjen began as township administrator in Wayne on Feb. 22. He will be paid $1,000 monthly as part-time CMFO until a new CMFO is hired.

Tietjenʼs term starts on the same day that Michael Ghassali — who is Montvaleʼs mayor — starts his first day in office as Hillsdaleʼs new administrator, following administrator David Troastʼs resignation.

(See “Hillsdale hires Montvale mayor as its admin: Three-year deal for ʻMayor Mikeʼ; his honor also announces re-election intent,” Michael Olohan, page 1, Feb. 13, 2023.)

Troast cited a “great divide” between the mayor and council, and

BERGEN BOOK STUDIO

his health, as the main reasons for leaving. Troastʼs last public meeting was Feb. 14.

Lunaʼs resignation letter, sent Feb. 5 via email to Troast, said she was recently putting in three times the weekly five-hour time period that she was hired for.

“As you know, when I accepted the position as part-time CFO for the Borough of Hillsdale, it was for 5 hours a week to perform the statutory requirements of the job Over the past several months (I) average about 15+ hours a week dealing with

staff issues, constant reinforcement of routine policy and procedure, along with interference and demands from committee members,” Luna wrote.

Luna said, “I cannot effectively perform my statutory duties with these challenges, nor can I give any more of my time. Therefore, please accept this email as my two week notice of resignation. My final day will be Feb. 20, 2023.”

Luna said she would prepare a 2023-2024 budget to be reviewed by the Finance Committee and provide

it to the auditor before leaving.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with you and I thank you for all of your support and attempts to ease the burdens that were put upon us,” wrote Luna.

During the public comment period Feb 14, resident Jonathan DeJoseph, former BA, CFO, and QPA from 2016 through 2019 when he resigned, asked why recent changes with professionals had occurred.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

Police chief Robert Francaviglia addresses the Hillsdale Borough Council on Feb.14 amid a discussion on short-term rentals.At the same meeting,council approved a variety of resolutions,including one appointing Christopher J.Tietjen as a temporary chief municipal finance officer. Screenshot, Borough of Hillsdale.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

PASCACK VALLEY

‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ goes right Feb. 18–March 11

Bergen County Players (BCP), one of Americaʼs longestrunning little theater companies, will continue its 90th season on Saturday, Feb. 18 with the hilarious Tony Award-winning hit Broadway comedy “The Play That Goes Wrong.”

Performances run through Saturday, March 11 at the Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell with shows on Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 and Sunday afternoons at 2.

Tickets, priced at $24 on Fridays and Saturdays, and $21 on Sundays, can be purchased at bcplayers.org, by calling (201) 2614200 or by visiting the box office at 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell during regular box office hours.

In “The Play That Goes Wrong,” the “Cornley University Drama Society” is putting on a production of “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” This riotous play-within-a-play whodunnit has everything you never wanted in a show—an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that canʼt play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines).

Audiences can sit back and bust a gut at all the misplaced props, banged heads, missed cues, pratfalls, door slams, broken fingers and mispronounced words as the show literally falls apart at the seams. Nevertheless, the accidentprone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hilarious consequences.

Co-written by Mischief company members Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, “The Play That Goes Wrong” was the winner of the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, “one of the most laugh-filled works that has ever jollied a stage” (NY Stage Review). Ben Brantley of The New York Times called The Play That Goes Wrong “A gutbusting hit.”

The Broadway production of “The Play That Goes Wrong” opened at the Lyceum Theatre on April 2, 2017, and by its closing on January 6, 2019, the production played 27 previews and 745 performances, making it the second longest running show in the history of the Lyceum Theatre.

Not yet done with New York, “The Play That Goes Wrong” officially opened Off-Broadway on Feb 20, 2019, at New World Stages – Stage 4.

“The Play That Goes Wrong” received a Tony Award for Best Set Design, Broadway.comʼs Audience Choice Award for Best Play and the Theater Fans Choice Award for Best Play.

The talented cast features Angelina Aragona of Township of Washington, Sean Buckley of

Bergen County Players continues its 90th season on Saturday,Feb.18 with the Tony Award-winning hit Broadway comedy “The Play That Goes Wrong.”

Secaucus, Eric Holzer of Montclair, Wes Laga of Wood-Ridge, Nyasia Legra of Rockaway, Dan Loverro of Parsippany, Josh Switala of Allendale, and Craig Woodward of Little Falls.

Angelina (Sandra) appeared in this seasonʼs BCP opener, “Ragtime: The Musical,” as well as in “Pippin.” At Ramapo College she appeared in “The Library,” “Urinetown,” “Extremities,” and others, prior to receiving her masterʼs degree summa cum laude.

Sean (Chris) appeared in “The Lion in Winter” and “Cymbeline” at BCP. His stage credits at other area theaters include “The Ghost Train,” “Loveʼs Labourʼs Lost,” “Dial M for Murder,” and “Wm. &

Jas. — A Ghost Story.”

Eric (Dennis) has pulled double duty at BCP handling publicity, as well as appearing in “Moon Over Buffalo,” “Clue,” and “Ragtime: The Musical.”

Other BCP credits include “Veronicaʼs Room,” “33 Variations,” “Pippin,” and “The Lion in Winter,” for which he received a Perry Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor.

Wes (Trevor) teaches drama to students in grades 6–11 in Manhattan, and he is the co-founder and vice president of Full Circle Theatre Collective based in New Jersey

Nyasia (Annie) is making her BCP debut in this production. Her

prior credits at other theaters include “Pride and Prejudice,” “Much Ado About Nothing,” “Twelfth Night,” and “Almost, Maine.”

Dan (Jonathan) most recently appeared on our stage in “Ragtime: The Musical.” Previous BCP credits include “Spamalot,” “Pippin,” “Itʼs Only a Play,” “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” and “The Lion in Winter.” Performances on other stages include “Matilda the Musical” and “Avenue Q.”

Josh (Max), a recent graduate of Ramapo College of New Jersey, where he was part of the Alph Psi Omega theater honor society, is excited to make his BCP debut. Credits include The Old Library Theaterʼs “It Shoulda Been You,” Ramapo Collegeʼs “Urinetown,” “A Midsummer Nightʼs Dream,” and “Of Mice and Men.”

Craig (Robert) last appeared on our stage in “The Drowsy Chaperone.” His performances on other stages include “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Falsettos” and “Moon Over Buffalo.”

A Life Member of BCP, director Alyson Cohn has been active with the Players for over 35 years. Her long list of directorial credits includes “God of Carnage” (Perry Award for Best Director of a Play), “Art,” “The Laramie Project,” “Glengarry Glen Ross,” “One Flew Over the Cuckooʼs Nest,” “The Heidi Chronicles,” “Six Degrees of Separation,” “Proposals,” “True West,” and “Proof”

(Perry Award for Best Production of a Play), among others.

She has appeared on the BCP stage in many productions, including “Lend Me a Tenor,” “A Year with Frog and Toad,” “Into the Woods,” “The Full Monty,” and “Little Shop of Horrors” (Best Actress Perry Award).

Alyson is the founder and director of Music Together of Northern New Jersey, an acclaimed music and movement program for pre-schoolers. Regarding her directorial choices on “The Play That Goes Wrong,” Alyson says, “Everything needs to be precisely timed in this show. Thereʼs no room for actors to do something a little different each night as you might in a drama.”

She says, “The nice thing is theyʼre supposed to be bad actors in a poorly directed show, so finally I have the freedom to create all this terrible staging. I get to break all the director rules! Iʼm like, yes, make it look ugly! Thatʼs kind of freeing and exciting and creative.”

Bergen County Players strongly encourages its patrons to be vaccinated for Covid-19 but will not require proof of vaccination to enter the building. The use of face coverings/masks is also very strongly recommended. Reminders of that recommendation will be visible throughout the facility and stated by our Frontof-House staff before each event. For more information visit bcplayers.org

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

PASCACK VALLEY

Can’tgetouttoGiulio’sRestaurant?Prepareitssignaturedishathome

Giulioʼs Restaurant meets a full array of dining and entertaining needs. Giulioʼs welcomes walk-ins, but takes reservations and offers takeout.

Giulioʼs will be delighted to host your holiday business of fam-

ily parties. Seating is available for up to 100. Catering is also offered and the restaurant has a full bar, including over 100 wines.

Enjoy making our Signature Dish at Home!

Send off used books in the church bin

What can you do with all the books that have been gathering dust on the shelf, or going unnoticed in boxes, for years?

Books are for reading and renewal. You can give yours a fresh start. Hillsdale United Methodist Church has partnered with New Legacy Books, which gives used and unwanted books a “new life” through reuse, redistribution, or recycling.

Organizers say all donated books collected will be used in some way: either resold to individuals who can give them a new home or, if the books have seen better days, they will be recycled properly and diverted from the landfill.

Youʼll find the convenient

Chicken alla Giulio

What youʼll need:

• 4 chicken breasts

• 1 1/2 cups light sweet sherry wine

•Remove from stove.

•Add the pear and sher-

bright green donate books bin in the church parking lot, 349 Hillsdale Ave., at the corner of Magnolia. Book donations can be made at this location at any time.

Donation guidelines

• Only books with ISBN numbers/bar codes should be donated. The ISBN is either in the first 1–3 pages or in the back of the book. Books without the ISBN number should not be donated.

• Encyclopedias are not accepted.

• Magazines are not accepted. For more information, call Terry Stevens at (201) 694-9172 or email her at terrystevens956@yahoo

• 1 pear, sliced •1 tsp. shallots •1/2 cup dried cranberries

What to do:

•Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

•Saute chicken in pan with olive oil and shallots.

St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club invites you to join in the fun on Wednesday, March 1 at 1 p.m. in the gym to welcome Fr. Jerry

Pull up a chair at Giulio’s Restaurant, where elegance meets affordable -and delicious -Italian cuisine.

ry wine to the chicken and shallots. •Bake in 375 degree oven for 8–10 min. (ovens vary).

•Buon Appetito!

Giulioʼs Restaurant is

Hahn as guest speaker. Dues for the new year will be collected. New members are always welcome. Cake and coffee will be

located at 154 Washington S treet, Tappan NY. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Visit Giulioʼs website for its menu: www.giuliosrestaurant.com For reservations, takeout, catering, and more, call (845) 359-3657

served. Please bring an item/donation for the food pantry For more information call call Elaine at (201) 664-7037.

Perfection!

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Contemporaries’ progressive dinner benefits Meals on Wheels

The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood invite members and their guests to its first Progressive Dinner on Friday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. in downtown Westwood.

Tickets are $75 per person with proceeds supporting Meals on Wheels of North Jersey and the Womanʼs Club of Westwood.

The night will begin with a cash bar at Cafe Anello and attendees will be randomly selected to carry on to one of three undisclosed BYO restaurants in downtown Westwood for a three-course prix fixe meal. The night will conclude at Five Dimes Brewery.

Traditionally, a progressive dinner party is a social event where multiple courses are served at different locations throughout the night. Guests have the opportunity to meet new people and explore different cuisines.

With an interest in supporting Westwood restaurants, The Contemporaries progressive dinner features an evening in three parts:

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Ticketed guests will meet at Cafe Anello for the opportunity to mingle and enjoy complimentary hors-dʼouevres and a cash bar. At 7:30, attendees will randomly select their dinner location.

Groups will travel to their assigned location — within walking distance — where they will be treated to a three-course prix fixe menu of appetizer, entree, and dessert.

The mystery of dinner partners and dining locations are all part of the fun, so locations are only revealed the night of the event.

After their meals, all guests are invited to meet up at Five Dimes Brewery for another chance to mingle and introduce new friends.

The Contemporaries selected Meals on Wheels of North Jersey as beneficiary of the proceeds raised through Progressive Dinner ticket sales in fulfillment of the clubʼs mission to serve the greater Westwood community.

According to its website, Meals on Wheels “provides more than just a meal to our homebound neighbors, nourishing both the body and mind through the delivery of nutritious food and a daily wellness visit.” The nonprofit has its headquarters in Westwood and serves 31 communities across Bergen County with hundreds of volunteers delivering meals across 20 routes. 2022 marked its 50th anniversary.

“We want to be sure that the fulfillment of our philanthropic mission is always at the forefront of what we do as a committee,” co-chair Jennifer Sirchio said.

She added, “The Contemporaries will be moving through Westwood during the progressive dinner, just as the Meals on Wheels volunteers move through the community to complete their critical work of delivering meals to seniors! Itʼs a perfect fit.”

Tickets for the Progressive Dinner are $75 per person. Tickets are limited to members of the

Knights’ spelling bee returns March 1

The members of Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council 5427 are excited to invite the students of the Township of Washington and Westwood to take part in its 2023 Spelling Bee.

The event had been a staple

Club News?

Spread

on the Knights of Columbus calendar for many years.

The event, Wednesday, March 1 at 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus hall, 79 P ascack Road, is open to all students in grades 6–8. Contestant sign-in starts at 6:30.

In order for things to run as smoothly as possible, students are asked to pre-register for the event by sending an email to spelling bee committee chairman Mike Fusco

at KofC5427@mail.com Include your full name, grade, and the name of the town you live in. A reply email will be sent to confirm your attendance. The committee says, “We look forward to continuing this traditional event with a new generation of students.”

For more information call (201) 664-0422 or visit kofc5427.com

Womanʼs Club of Westwood and their spouse/partners, as well as up to two additional guests. Couples or pairs who purchase tickets together will be seated together at dinner, however larger groups will be split in the spirit of meeting new neighbors and friends.

To purchase tickets visit https://tinyurl.com/ProgressiveDinner 324 before Friday, March 17. Space is limited and payment is due via check or Venmo at the time of reservation.

The mission of The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Westwood is to bring together a diverse group of women in an inclusive environment who, through fellowship, volunteerism, and leadership, engage in hyperlocal philanthropy to serve the greater Westwood community.

To learn much more, including how to become a member, write westwoodcontemporaries@ gmail.com

Additional upcoming events and opportunities can be found at instagram.com/westwoodcontemporaries

With regret, says the Woodcliff Lake Senior Assocation, its book group tea with Hillsdale author Shane Svorec, advertised for Thursday, Feb. 23 is cancelled.

WESTWOOD

Elks Ash Wednesday Fish Fry

Westwood Elks 1562 invites you to its annual Ash Wednesday Fish Fry — eat in or take out — at 523 Kinderkamack Road. The cost is $15.

Clerk lands part-time admin gig, pay bump

A unanimous Borough Council approved the borough clerkʼs appointment Feb. 14 as part-time borough administrator at an annual salary of $30,000, bringing the clerkʼs total annual compensation to $150,000.

The move followed two tumultuous January council meetings where the mayor, council, and residents argued over firing

the former borough administrator.

Last year, Councilor William Fenwick said that Borough Clerk Maggie Giandomenico received a “significant” salary offer from another municipality and that the borough wished to keep Giandomenico. The borough then began looking for ways to provide additional compensation, said Fenwick.

In 2022, Borough Clerk Maggie Giandomenico was paid $95,606.82, according to the boroughʼs salary ordinance. Her 2023 salary was raised to $110,000, plus a $10,000 stipend to serve as qualified purchasing agent, and $30,000 to serve as part-time borough administrator effective Jan. 30. The clerkʼs 2023 salary compensation totals

COUSINS CRUSH ELKS HOOP SHOOT

IT WASA singularly exciting day

Feb. 12 in the Boniello and Koch households, and not because of the Super Bowl.

Competing in the New Jersey State Elks Hoop Shoot, a free throw program for youth ages 8-13, Thomas Koch, 11, won the 10–11 age group and Ciro Boniello, 9, won the 8–9 age group.

The boys are first cousins from Westwood. They both shot 20–25 from the line at the 3rd round of the tournament, which took place at South Plainfield High School on Super Bowl Sunday.

They next represent New Jersey in the Northeast Central Regional Semifinals, held on Saturday, March 18 on the Penn State Wilkes–Barre campus. They will be competing in their age groups against state champs from New York and Pennsylvania.

Should they win there, theyʼll fly to Chicago for the national finals, set for Saturday, April 22.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks say, “The Hoop Shoot has been developing gritty kids for 50 years.”

Zion Lutheran Church

155 SECOND AVE. • WESTWOOD, NJ • 201-664-1325

www.zionwestwoodnj.org

& Early Childhood Center

64 FIRST AVENUE • WESTWOOD, NJ • 201-664-8060

www.zionlutheranschool.org

Join us for Ash Wednesday, February 22nd. Services at 7:30 A.M., 12:30 and 7:30 P.M.

The imposition of Ashes is available to those who so desire.

On Sunday, February 26th at our 9:30 A.M. worship service, we begin our FIVE-Week sermon series on Basics of the Faith.

Pastor Thomas J. Pranschke

You are always welcome at Zion

$150,000, an approximately $55,000 increase.

Following much public opposition, and Mayor Keith Misciagnaʼs rebuke to four Republican council members who spearheaded the former administratorʼs firing, the council unanimously approved a separation package Jan. 24 for the former administrator, Julie Falkenstern, who was terminated.

(See “Residents Protest, But Council Agrees On Deal To Drop Town Admin,” Michael Olohan, Feb. 6, 2023, Pascack Press.) Republican Council President William Fenwick said by terminating Falkenstern, who previously served as Land Use Administrator, Qualified Purchasing Agent, and Borough Administrator, the council would be able to offer Giandomenico a salary increase due to nearly $85,000 in savings from eliminating Falkensternʼs land use position (approximately $67,000) and not paying related medical benefits.

Falkensternʼs 10-page separation agreement provided to Pascack Press Feb. 1 pays her six

months of severance of her salary as borough administrator and land use administrator ($58,564.50), a one-time payment of $16,500, and up to six monthsʼreimbursement (no cost provided) for health care coverage under COBRA.

Falkenstern signed the agreement Jan. 27.

Fenwick told Pascack Press on Jan. 31, “The $85,000 savings figure I quoted is not affected by the raise given to the clerk, the QPA payment or her anticipated future salary as administrator. The mayor has the power to make appointments (confirmed by the council), but does not have the power to set salaries. That lies with the council.”

Fenwick said, “The combined annual cost to the Borough for Ms. Giandomenico's future work as part time administrator combined together with the raise she received as clerk is not anticipated to exceed the $48,000 that Ms. Falkenstern received as administrator.”

—Michael Olohan

DORCHESTER KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION

The Dorchester Elementary School is accepting applications for kindergarten registration for the 2023-24 school year. To be eligible for kindergarten in September 2023, children must be 5 years of age by Oct.1, 2023.

For a complete registration packet, visit the school website at woodcliff-lake.com Click on Dorchester School under schools,

and then 2023-24 Kindergarten Registration under Links & Announcements.

The school requests you email a completed registration form and all required documentation as directed on the Kindergarten

For help, call the main office at (201) 930-5600 ext. 100.

WESTWOOD

Cousins Ciro Boniello, left,and Thomas Koch,both of Westwood,have game.

WOODCLIFF LAKE

March: 21st Annual March for Meals is rolling on

FROM PAGE 4

thereʼs still much we can do to ensure everyone in need of our vital lifeline can benefit from being well-nourished and more c onnected to our community through this challenging time and beyond.”

S he said, “Due to rising costs, 2023 looks to be a particularly challenging year for us. We need the support of our community more than ever!”

M eals on Wheels North Jersey serves 30 towns in Northern Bergen County, and just celebrated its 50th anniversary.

The annual March for Meals celebration commemorates the historic day in March 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed into law a measure that amended the Older Americans Act of 1965 to include a national nutrition

WESTWOOD

program for seniors 60 years and older. This critical support and federal funding has fueled the growth of the Meals on Wheels network for more than 50 years.

Community-based Meals on Wheels programs from across the country will join forces for the annual awareness campaign to celebrate this public–private partnership and garner the resources needed to reach every senior in need of a nutritious meal, friendly visit, and safety check.

“March is an important time for us to come together to ensure that Meals on Wheels is there for all of our senior neighbors in need,” said Ellie Hollander, president and CEO of Meals on Wheels America.

She said, “The demand for services is already great and approximately 12,000 Americans are turning 60 every day. We must

SENIORS’ ST. PAT’S MARCH 14 AT IRON HORSE

The Westwood Senior Fellowship called in to say its next meeting, Tuesday, March 14, is at The Iron Horse restaurant, 20 Washington Ave., at 11:30 a.m. for its annual St Patrickʼs Day luncheon (members only).

The menu: corned beef cabbage, Irish soda bread, potatoes, beverage, and dessert.

For more information call Rita before March 3 at (201) 6661754. Fellowship president is Mary Cerrati.

maintain and expand the programs that have helped so many get through this unprecedented time in our nationʼs history. We canʼt do it alone. It takes all of us to keep the nationwide Meals on Wheels movement going.”

For more information on volunteering, contributing, or speaking out for the seniors in the

community this March, visit mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org

M eals on Wheels North Jersey started in 1972 out of the Park Ridge Diner, before moving to Pascack Valley Hospital a few years later. They currently serve a bout 200 clients through the efforts of over 500 dedicated volunteers, with meals supplied by

R ockland County Meals on Wheels. The program also provides a Music Therapy and Friendly Visitor Program.

The cost for meals is $6.50 per day, if clients require a subsidy there are limited funding resources available. No one is refused service solely for inability to pay.

F Fuunnddrraaiisseer r f foor r ‘ ‘ddooccttoor r w whho o

Elizabeth Spaeth is organizing a fundraiser on behalf of Harry Elia, DC, who has no shortage of friends — including patients past and present pulling for him as he battles back from polycystic kidney disease and related surgeries.

The GoFundMe for “Doctor Who Gave All to Patients in Dire Straights” says, “Remember back in the day when doctors didnʼt rush through appointments and gave you their undivided attention, or called to check up on you, or took care of you even when you couldnʼt afford their services, or saw you after hours because you were in such bad shape that they didnʼt want you to suffer another day? We do! That doctor is Harry Elia, DC.”

Betsy and Jaime, longtime friends and patients of Elia in Emerson, said he “has helped us and our family members through countless health concerns. Because of his compassionate care, we and many others have been able to live healthy and happy lives with our loved ones ver-

sus lives filled with illness and injury. Now, Harry needs our help and we are reaching out to you to ask for you to consider contributing to this campaign.”

Elia and his family, says the appeal,moved to Emerson from Brooklyn in 1961. “He is a 1971 graduate of Emerson Junior/Senior High School. He served there as the wrestling and football coach from 1975 to 1980. Harry started the Emerson Junior Wrestling program and coached at Pascack Valley Junior Recreation Wrestling and Baseball program. Harry graduated from Chiropractic College in 1983, and has been providing chiropractic services to the Bergen County community ever since.”

Elia has been facing kidney failure for the past few years, and will undergo kidney transplant surgery soon. Read more about this local hero and the crushing costs heʼs had to bear in getting to this point. Donations of any amount are welcome. Staff report

g gaavve e a allll, , ’ H Haarrrry y E Elliiaa, , D DC C

PASCACK VALLEY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

HEREʼS AROUNDUP of some of what our libraries are offering patrons in the next days and weeks. Thanks to Pascack Press interns Ashley and Christian for the web research! Visit your library online or in person to get all the facts —and have fun getting involved!

E EMMEERRSSOON N

20 Palisade Ave.

(201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org

• Mondays in February at 1 and 3 p.m.: Knitters Circle. All levels of experience are welcome. Basic materials will be provided, or you can bring your own. Registration recommended, drop-in welcome. Mondays in February at 2 p.m.: Mahjong. Registration required, open to adults of Emerson. Mondays in February at 3:30 p.m.: Fairy Tales, Mysteries, Adventures Join Miss Victoria for Afternoon Storytime. All children 2–5 welcome. Registration recommended, drop-in welcome. A parent/guardian is required to remain in the building for the duration of storytime.

• Tuesdays in February at 11 a.m.: Join us for an introduction to songs, dance, and finger plays with stuffed animals and rhymes. New-

born to 2. Open to all families. Registration required for each child per date. Join the wait list if weʼre booked. Tuesdays in February at 3:30 p.m.: Switch Club. Local grades 2–4 are welcome to play our Switch on the flatscreen television set or on their personal device. Registration required for each child per date. For ages 7–8, a parent/guardian is required to remain in the building for the duration of the game.

• Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 11 a.m.: February is National Childrenʼs Dental Health Month. Dr. Parmar, from The Smile Stop Pediatric Dentistry of Park Ridge, will visit with fun, engaging and age appropriate activities for ages 1–5 to promote dental health. Open to all families. Registration required for each child.

• Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 10:30 a.m.: Create a Polar Bear Puppet Craft and enjoy storytime with your little one(s). This class is suitable for ages 2–5 and is structured around preschool readiness. Registration is required for each craft. One craft per child. At 1:30 p.m.: The Great Books Club is a literature discussion group that meets the last Wednesday of the month. New members

welcome. Drop in.

• Thursdays in February at 1 p.m.: Experienced Mahjong Registration recommended, drop-in welcome.

• Thursday, Feb. 23 at 3:30 p.m.: Sand Board Art, easy to do. Just peel precut shapes from selfadhesive backing and apply fine sand for beautiful designs. Designs will be given randomly. During the registration process, choose to do the craft in-person or as a grab & go. Registration is required for each craft, one craft per child..

H HIILLLLSSDDAALLE E 509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072 hfpl.org

• Tuesdays in February at 1:30 p.m.: Winter Story Time, ages 2.5 to 5. Call (201) 358-5073 or e-mail Cindy at cindy.greenwald@hfpl.org.

• Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.: Hillsdale 125th — talk by Sean Smith: Final details to be announced. Time tentative.

• Tuesday, Feb. 14, 21, 28 at 1 p.m.: Mahjongg For Beginners organized by Cathy Widner, sixweek series.

• Wednesdays in February at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Time, 18–30

50+Club plans lively spring trips

The Hillsdale 50+ Club invites all to gather to meet neighbors and friends. The club meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Hillsdale. The entrance to the meeting room is on Magnolia Avenue between Hillsdale and Washington avenues.

PARK RIDGE

The Hillsdale club has two trips planned:

•A trip to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse is scheduled for Tuesday, April 4. This trip includes a wonderful hot lunch and a terrific show, “The Million Dollar Quartet” (Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and others). Cost is $83 for club mem-

bers, $85 for non-members.

•A two-night, three-day trip is set for Cape May, May 8–10. There are many activities planned while the club is there, with hotel lodging. For more information on club trips call Evelyn Pachner at (201) 666-7675.

Rotary recognizes allies at dinner Feb. 23

Park Ridge Rotary Club invites you to its Recognition of Community Giving and Outreach Dinner honoring local organization and individuals for making a difference through community service and giving.

The event is Thursday, Feb.

23 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Hearth & Tap Restaurant, Montvale.

All are welcome to join. Rotary promotes business-to-business networking, so bring your business card. RSVP by Tuesday, Feb. 21. Contact parkridgerotaryclub@gmail.com

The Westwood Elks invite you to their golden ticket raffle on Sunday, April 16 at 1 p.m. at Westwood Elks Lodge 1562. Ticketholders will be able to enjoy a buffet and refreshments.

Two hundred tickets are available at a $100 donation. If all 200 tickets are sold, $10,000 will go to the winner

Organizers say this is an elimination drawdown from start to finish. Three $150 consolation prizes will be pulled, leading up to the big winner. The last ticket pulled will be winner — or the last two owners may agree to split the grand prize.

You can buy as an individual, split with a friend,

Receiving the Recognition Award: Wegmans Montvale Store, Nick Tassi; Tri-Boro Food Pantry, Janelle Larghi; Montvale Landscaping: Jeff & Deb Piatt; Pascack Press (for community outreach)

John Snyder

months with a caregiver. Registration required and is open to Hillsdale card owners only. Wednesdays in February at 3 p.m.: Think It, Make It, Share It — Crafts throughout the month. In order: Paper Quilling, Hardware Jewelry, and a robot artist. Kids under 9 must be accompanied by a guardian or an older responsible sibling.

• Thursdays in February at 1:30 p.m.: Tales for Tykes. Ages 3–5 without a caregiver. Registration is required and is open to Hillsdale card owners only.

• Fridays in February at 10:30 a.m.: Join Cherlyn for a gentle workout in our Chair Yoga class. Cherlyn Demarest is a registered yoga teacher with more than a decade experience.. Registration required for each session.

M MOONNTTVVAALLE E

12 Mercedes Drive, Suite 100 (201) 391-5090 montvalelibrarynj.org

• Adult Book Club meets the first Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. or the second Monday of the month at noon. Call George Galuschak at (201) 391-5090 or write george.galuschak@montvale.bccls.org and provide your name, telephone number, and BCCLS Library bar code number.

• Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 6:30 p.m.: Montvale Cookbook Supper Club — “Ready, Set, Cook: How To Make Good Food With Whatʼs On Hand” (2022) by Dawn Perry.

• Thursday, Feb. 23 at 10:30 a.m.: Join us for Bozza Yoga Littles and enjoy creative yoga poses, movements, and storytime fun. Come meet new friends and

improve eye-hand coordination and motor skills through yoga. This class is for children aged 18 months to 4 years with a grownup. At 7 p.m.: Talking about Gambling Addiction — Join prevention specialist Joe Kane, with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of N.J., as he talks about the state of gambling in 2023, warning signs of problem gambling, and his own story of compulsive gambling and recovery one day at a time. This in-person program will take place in the Library Activity Room. Registration .

P PAARRK K R RIIDDGGE E 51 Park Ave. (201) 391-5151 parkridge.bccls.org

• Mondays in February at 11:30 a.m.: Yoga, all levels welcome. Register with payment at the library. Not meeting on the 20th due to Presidentʼs Day.

• Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 10 a.m.: Story Time with Miss Renee

• Thursday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m.: Story Time with Miss Renee At 2 p.m.: Legos. Registration required.

• Friday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Crafts with Miss Renee. Pick up a craft bag at the library.

• Saturday, Feb. 24 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Story Time with Miss Eileen

R RIIVVEER R V VAALLE E 412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323 rivervalelibrary.org

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

WCL: 46 units

FROM PAGE 5 Broadway LP, and local officials. The agreement obligates the borough to build the eight affordable units required at 188 Broadway at its North Broadway affordable development, which will now include 24 affordable units.

Previously, the 100% affordable North Broadway development included 16 affordable units, as part of its 2017 affordable settlement, but the developer backed out and forced the borough to find another developer.

or go in on a group ticket.

Depending on availability, last-minute tickets will be sold on the day of the event from 11:30 a.m. to the start of the drawing. See ticket for details and license number.

This is a great opportunity to do a lot of good. Proceeds benefit Elks charites, including children and adults with special needs, our veterans, and vital drug awareness programs.

For more information and to purchase tickets, call Carl Williams at (201) 446-6047 or the Westwood Elks Lodge at (201) 666-1562.

In a separate letter to Pascack Press printed in our Dec. 19 issue, Higgins and former councilman Craig Marson wrote a letter that opposed the rezoning of 188 Broadway as an area in need of redevelopment.

Dec. 26, 2022, we printed a letter from Rendo and Schnoll taking issue with the Marson/Higginsʼletter. (See our archive at issuu.com/thepressgroup to read the two prior letters.)

During public comment Dec. 22, two residents questioned aspects of future redevelopment at 188 Broadway.

Resident Alex Couto said he wanted to offer input on maximum building heights and landscaping. Padilla said to forward an email to him or Borough Clerk Debbie Dakin and that he would forward the comments to Planner Liz Leheny, who is drafting a redevelopment plan.

Resident Veronica Appelle, a longtime critic of residential development at 188 Broadway, said she was “obviously curious” about the future redevelopment plan for 188 Broadway.

“Still in the back of my mind is the idea that that (redevelopment) would be used as the standard for anyone who wanted to try to get a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) program, and would be able to say, Well, you gave it to 188, why not us?” Appelle said then.

No public comments were made at the Feb. 13 meeting.

E Ellkks s g goollddeen n t tiicckkeet t r raafffflle e a aiimms s a at t $ $1100,,00000 0

WESTWOOD

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

good conscience, do while being a mayor. These include devoting more time to international travel, spending quality time with my granddaughters, and working more directly on other commun ity, political, and religious efforts.

I will continue to serve the residents of Hillsdale until my term expires on Dec. 31 with the same passion, professionalism, and adherence to fiscal responsibility and transparency that I have always demonstrated. It is a duty that I owe to the residents who elected me three times to serve on the governing body.

Mayor John J. Ruocco Hillsdale

make sure that everyone knows that I am married to Nicole Klas, the Hillsdale Board of Education president.

I like to think of myself as a thankful American — grateful to have been born into citizenship in the greatest country in the history of the world and blessed to live in 21st century Bergen County — one of the wealthiest locations in the world during arguably the most prosperous time in history.

these are all averages, and you may fall below or above these averages, but I think it is safe to say that residents of Hillsdale are most likely much better off financially than the “average American.”

seven nights thatʼs $3,150 for the week, excluding food, transportation, and entertainment. So, a Jersey Shore vacation rental alone is therefore $262.50 per month or $8.63 per day if you annualize the cost.

month).

Letʼs get serious, folks: it is our right to vote and our obligation to vote yes on March 14.

Respectfully,

Brian J. Klas Hillsdale

First, the cost. The analysis completed by the board of education puts the cost of this project at $95 per month for the average home in Hillsdale. That boils down to $3.13 per day per household. This is about an 8.5% increase in property taxes.

I think we can all see where this is going.

Why

we’ll vote yes on school bond

To the editor:

IHAVEBEEN a hardworking, tax paying resident of Hillsdale for almost 25 years. In the spirit of full disclosure and transparency, I also want to

I think we can all agree that being an American comes with some awesome rights — as defined by our U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. We can speak freely, choose who to worship as our God freely, and h ave the choice to vote on important matters. Being able to vote directly on a matter such as the bond referendum to replace an aging, and honestly failing, middle school building in Hilldale is in fact a privilege and a great responsibility.

The claimed greatest opposition to this proposal is the financial burden of the increase in taxes to fund this project. As a finance professional, I looked at the numbers and weighed them against what I believe to be reasonable estimates and internet sourced data on the financial position of the “average American.” Please note that

I ask that everyone remember the $3.13 per day and $95 per month. And now think about the money that we all spend currently on some of the things that take up our hard-earned money.

Letʼs start with everyoneʼs favorite vice: our daily coffee. The average price of a grande coffee at Starbucks is $3.95. Thatʼs $120.08 per month.

What about our beloved cars. The average price of a new car in America (as of November 2022) was $48,681. With 10% down and zero interest over 72 months the monthly payment on one new car is $608 per month or $20 per day.

We also all like to take a nice annual vacation. Letʼs look at a VRBO at Lavallette, at the Jersey Shore, for a week in July. $450 a night appears to be the average for a family of four, over

ROWDIES HELP PROPEL RAVENS TO WIN

I think this leaves us with a great responsibility at the polls on March 14. We love to speak a bout our rights and exercise them without any regard for the obligations and responsibilities that come with these rights. Each generation has an obligation to invest in the next generation. We are quick to do it with our club s ports programs and private tutors to give our kids a leg up. It is our responsibility to make sure that the future generations of our borough are best equipped to learn and succeed in an ever more competitive world. Itʼs well past due.

George G. White Middle School has reached the end of its useful life. It has served our community well for a century, but it is cramped and outdated and keeping it is just not a viable option. I am sure we could choose a cheaper option today to patch it up — but at what cost — another referendum in 10 more years to fix it again at an even greater total overall cost?

The kicking of the can down the road stops here. The value of a new middle school to our community for the next century far outweighs the costs and it is both foolish and dishonest for the average Hillsdale taxpayer to complain about the costs as they drive their new car to their vacation while sipping their latte (which total about $990 per

Editorʼs note: The Hillsdale Board of Education will ask voters on Tuesday, March 14 for permission to borrow $82.7 million to replace the century-old George G. White Middle School. For the districtʼs “Road to Refere ndum” web portal, visit h ttps://sites.google.com/hillsdaleschools.com/hpsbondreferendum

Soup’r Bowl thanks from the heart

To the editor: ONBEHALF of GFWC/NJSFWC The Womanʼs Club of Westwood, I thank everyone for their generosity by contributing to our “Soupʼr Bowl Sunday” soup collection. All donations were delivered to the Westwood Food Pantry. It is gratifying to know that, in a small way, we are helping our friends and neighbors who are in need. Special thanks to Fresh Grocer supermarket in Washington Township for letting us set up inside the store.

The Womanʼs Club of Westwood is a non-profit, volunteer organization. If any woman would like more information about the Club, please call (201) 916-1580.

Madeleine Ciocco

Womanʼs Club of Westwood

HEF grants! $8,500 for new programs

The Hillsdale Education Foundation (“HEF”) is pleased to announce the results of its twiceannual cycle of minigrant applications, for the winter/spring 2023 School Year. The foundation will be funding four innovative and meritorious programs, for a combined total of $8,500:

•At Meadowbrook, 12 teachers and staff will be gaining proficiency in the “Science of Reading,” to augment early literacy in grades K-4.

•At Smith, four teachers led by Christine Barnhart will be developing a before-school program to provide early reading support in grades K-2.

The third grade girls Ravens fell into an 8–2 deficit halfway through the second quarter at home against Old Tappan on Saturday, Feb. 11.

With a packed house and chants of de-fense! coming from the stands of the third-grade Rowdies, the Ravens went on a 10–2 run and finished off a physical Old Tappan team, 17–14.

The Ravens followed that with a 16–13 win, Sunday, Feb. 12, against a scrappy Hillsdale

The

• At George White, Stacey Belhumer and Jeannette Horning will bring the exciting Battle of the Books program back to students in Grades 5-8.

•Also at George White, Katie OʼHanlon will commence a spring robotics and coding program for students in grades 6-8, to complement and extend the fall robotics competition season.

Hillsdale Schools Superin-

tendent Robert Lombardy Jr. applauded the announcement as wonderful news.

HEF represents all three K-8 schools in Hillsdale – George G. White Middle School, and Meadowbrook and Ann Blanche Smith Elementary Schools. It raises funds primarily from corporate and governmental donations and grants for innovative enrichment programs that do not yet have district funding.

HEF tells Pascack Press itʼs seeking corporate or individual sponsorship for these and other programs. If interested, contact Melissa Mazza-Chiong, HEF president, at (908) 296-0765, or mmazzachiong.hef@gmail.com “We are also seeking parents or other community members to join the other parents, teachers, and administrators on the foundation board. You will have a voice in fundraising and program selection and development. Please also contact Ms. Mazza-Chiong if you would like to join our efforts.”

For more information, visit HEFNJ.com

HILLSDALE

Ariel Chavez worked the ball to Bella de la Rosa in the paint for three consecutive baskets while Molly Cooper continues to shut down the opposing teams top scorer. Mackenzie Burke and Velma Pellegrino each forced a team high five turnovers.

team. Brooke DeSantis, Michela Sanelli, Burke and Cooper lead the offense with Ruhi Modi, Audrey Guthrie, Juliet Megdal and Sofia Jilleba playing tough on the glass to secure the ball and rebounds.

Ravens are a game and a half out of second place heading into the week with a 9-3-1 record.

Antonia Hroncich

River Vale boys cheer on the Ravens Feb.11 against the OTRowdies.

PASCACK VALLEY

DEAN’S LIST AND MORE: STUDENTACHIEVEMENT

PASCACK PRESSSALUTES

the Pascack Valleyʼs highachieving alumni of our area high schools. Hereʼs what theyʼve been up to lately, according to their schools and families…

•Students at Fairleigh Dickinson Universityʼs Metrop olitan Campus Teaneck have been named to the Honors Lists for the fall 2022 semester, among them Valerie Gandiaga of Hillsdale, Scott Macfie of Hillsdale, Liz Zimmerman of Hillsdale, Jessica Strassberg of Woodcliff Lake, Sajin Philip of Emerson, Carlos Pereira of Westwood, and Sean Smith of Emerson.

• Brielle Chavez of Hillsdale, a student at Fairleigh Dickinson Universityʼs Metropolitan Campus in Teaneck, has been named to the Deanʼs List for the fall 2022 semester.

• Congratulations, Kira Mitchell of Park Ridge, on making the Deanʼs List at Saint Francis University! Mitchell is majoring in Health Science PA.

• Students at Fairleigh Dickinson Universityʼs Florham Campus, in Madison, N.J. have been named to the Deanʼs List for the Fall 2022 semester. They include Matthew Gambert of Park Ridge and Sam Schatzberg of Montvale.

•Students named to the Honors List at Fairleigh Dickinson Universityʼs Florham Campus include Ryan Stewart of River Vale and Benjamin Levin of Montvale.

Third Ave.

• We are a 12 month school, offering 5 day and 3 day programs.

• Michael Kazigian of the Township of Washington, a freshman studying homeland security and psychology at Monmouth University, made the fall deanʼs list right out of the gate.

• Reilly Medzadourian of the Township of Washington is among 20 University of Scranton education majors serving as student teachers during the spring semester at 12 local schools in the following nine school districts: Abington Heights, Dunmore, Mid Valley, NEIU, North Pocono, Riverside, Scranton, Valley View and Western Wayne. Medzadourian, a graduate student majoring in special education, will serve as a student teacher at Evergreen Elementary School.

• E van Kinsey o f Park Ridge graduated from The University of Tampa on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2022. Kinsey earned a communication media and culture BA degree.

• The University of Tampa has honored 2,044 students who were named to the deanʼs list for the fall 2022 semester. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher to be eligible for the deanʼs list. The following local students were named to the deanʼs list: Mia Kramer , of Westwood, majoring in design BA; Rachael Cooper, of Hillsdale, majoring in advertising and public relations BA; Nicole Massey, of River Vale, majoring in advertising and public relations BA; and Talia Dian , of River Vale, majoring in nursing BSN.

• Endicott College, the first

college in the U.S. to require internships of its students, is pleased to announce its fall 2022 Deanʼs List students. Among the recipients: Nicholas Truiano of Hillsdale. Truiano, son of Christine Truiano and Joseph Truiano, is majoring in applied mathematics.

•Congratulations to Liam Fay ( DBP ʼ22) of Park Ridge. The University of Alabama –Capstone Nursing School nursing major made the fall 2022 deanʼs list.

• T he following (very many) students have earned the esteemed honor of placement on the Deanʼs List at The College of New Jersey for the fall 2022 semester:

— From Emerson: Joseph Giacalone, biology (BS); Michael Pressimone , finance; Gianna Sassi, marketing; Ashlyn Sterinsky, early childhood/special education.

—Hillsdale: Shannon Allen, communication studies; Noah Collier, criminology (BA); Johanna Evans, undeclared (general); Robert King, biology (BS); Isabella Liguori, elementary education (BS); Emily Mcauliffe, mathematics secondary education (BS); Marissa McGrane, marketing; Colin McLearie , interactive multimedia; Paige Skene , finance; Justine Tarabocchia, nursing.

—Montvale: Christopher Arrabito, non-matriculated visiting; Dean Bohus, history urban sec. education; Erin

•Hours of operation 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Breakfast and Lunch included.

•Age appropriate curriculum.

• State of the art security system.

•Fully enclosed age appropriate soft surface playground.

• Our staff are CPR and First Aid Certified.

B uquicchio , communication studies; Victoria Davino, communication studies; Jasmine Delgado, visual arts; Danielle Joukhadarian, psychology; Kelly Quinn, nursing.

—Park Ridge: Patrick Burns, non-matriculated visiting; Tyler Simpson, special education.

—River Vale: Grace Battinelli , elementary education (BS); Megan Brady, Deaf/Hard of Hearing El; Madeline Campbell, English secondary special education; Zana Dukaj, psychology; Isabel Forcellati, kinesiology and health sciences; Olivia Greco , early childhood/special education; Gloria Kim , accountancy; Chiara Krebs , management; Maria Lo Piccolo, special education; Christina McRae, marketing; Ilyssa Siegel, communication studies; and Sophie Ward, history secondary special education.

PASCACK VALLEY

Township of Washington: Julie Abaci, psychology; Kayl Bagdasaroglu, accountancy; Tirso Ballesteros, nursing; Arielle Goldberg, history secondary special education; Timothy Kazlau, computer science; Danielle Vinagre, psychology; Colin Whitchurch, non-matriculated visiting; Michael Giordano, computer science; Michelle Kalish, visual arts; Cassandra Malnick, communication studies.

Westwood: Jo seph Bergen , chemistry – ACS; Amanda Burns, psychology; Isabel Difabio, computer science; and

—Woodcliff Lake: Sofia Abbruzzesi, nursing; Skylar B achman , communication studies; Jared Christophel , criminology; Claudia Kim , English; Karen Kim, sociology; and Joshua Lerman, biology, seven-year medical.

PAGE 23

ROTARY CLUB SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINENEARS

The Park Ridge Rotary Charity Foundation is pleased to announce it is again granting college scholarshipsto local high school students. Scholarships are available to senior students who live in Park Ridge, Montvale, or Woodcliff Lake.

The service club will select recipients based upon need, scholastic ability, and contributions to the school and the community.

Moreover, one scholarship is available for an eligible Park Ridge High School senior majoring in education. This scholarship is in memory of Dr. Robert Balentine, former superintendent of

Park Ridge High School, who was a member of the Park Ridge Rotary Club for more than 40 years. The completed application with supporting documents should be submitted no later than April 15.

Students will be notified of results in early June. The club will notify schools of a scholarship recipient(s) in advance of presenting the awards at senior assemblies.

For applications, see the guidance departments of Park Ridge High School, Pascack Hills High School, and St. Joseph Regional High Schools, or download the application PDF via parkridgerotaryclub.org

at both locations! Call for details!

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

Alumni: DEAN’S LIST AND MORE: STUDENTACHIEVEMENT

FROM PAGE 22

• The following area students were named to the deanʼs list for the fall 2022 semester at Quinnipiac University: Emersonʼs

Marissa Eng, Brianna Galeazza, Brianna Romano, and Jessica Sabino; Hillsdaleʼs Bianca

Belmonte , Matthew Mugno,

Keemia Pico,and Zachary Sch-

neider;Montvaleʼs Vanessa

Geerlof and Matthew Goldman;

Park Ridgeʼs Erica Ferranti,

Michelle Galdi, Brianna McEl-

downey, Lauren Nicolich ,

Robert Nicolich, Catherine

Tallman , and T homas

Thomasian ;River Valeʼs

Francesca Di Stefano, Isabella

Dibari, Nicolette Greco, Jeffrey

Patalano,and Bradley Zirlin;

Township of Washingtonʼs

Kristin Ardese , Christopher

Blagec, Allison Frins, Alexa

Hywel, Amanda Nelson, Skylar Scasserra, David Stokes;

Westwoodʼs John Burns and Matthew Francis; and Woodcliff

Lakeʼs Joseph Bucello and Kyle

Tansky

• Joanne Semelsberger of Woodcliff Lake earned a place on Furman Universityʼs deanʼs list for the 2022 fall semester. Semelsbergerʼs parents and/or guardians are John and Yolanda Semelsberger.

•The University of Rhode Island is pleased to announce the

fall 2022 Deanʼs List includes Emersonʼs Katie Tenebruso; Hillsdaleʼs Kelly Blasberg, Colleen Curtin, Kaitlin Damascus, Sean Deady, Shayne

Flanagan , Erin Kearney , Nicole Perrone, Andrew Puller, Jordyn Puzzo, and Casey Stewart; Montvaleʼs Ryan Baudisch, Ryan Buquicchio, and H unter Giovannielli ; Park Ridgeʼs Gillian Unger; River Valeʼs E than Berg , Michael Caminneci, Jack Earls, Lauren Kalfus , Nick Paskas , Ryan Sheehan, and Mary Spillane; Township of Washingtonʼs Peter Sengos; andWestwoodʼs Connor Burns, Elisabeth Jovanis, Charlotte OʼDonoghue, and Colleen Saunders

•SUNY Morrisville recently announced that James Graizzaro of Hillsdale was named to the Deanʼs List for the fall 2022 semester.

• Christina Berens of Emerson graduated with a degree in Education (MEd) from James Madison University during commencement exercises in December 2022.

•Congratulations to Nicholas Mokanos of Hillsdale for earning a spot on the Presidentʼs List for the fall 2022 semester at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, N.Y. Mokanos is majoring in business administration.

• G abriel Stanescu of Hillsdale is one of 1,257 students named to the Deanʼs List at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania (ESU) for the fall 2022 semester.

•Worcester Polytechnic Instuteʼs (WPI) fall 2022 Deanʼs List includes Rhick Falcon of Emerson, majoring in aerospace engineering (BS), class of 2025; Joseph Kuchenmeister of the Township of Washington, majoring in aerospace engineering (BS), class of 2024; Julian Robles of Westwood, majoring in aerospace engineering (BS), class of 2023; and John Sirois of Township of Washington, majoring in mechanical engineering (BS), class of 2026.

• Five-hundred one students enrolled in UA Early College during fall semester 2022 at The University of Alabama were named to the directorʼs list with an academic record of 3.6 (or higher). They include Jude Piantino and Mia Piantino, both of Montvale and attending Pascack Hills High School.

•College of the Holy Cross congratulates local students named to the fall 2022 deanʼs list for outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2022–23 academic year: Aloise Hynekamp of Hillsdale, the class of 2026; Emmy Mazzacano of Park Ridge, the class of 2025; and

Ashley Terjanian of River Vale, the class of 2026.

• Miami University in Oxford, Ohio students who are ranked in the top 20% of undergraduate students within each division for the fall semester 2022–23 have been named to the Deanʼs list recognizing academic excellence. They include Sabrina Low of River Vale, earning a B.S. in engineering, B.S. in computer science in biomedical engineering, computer science; and Lindsay Davis of Park Ridge, earning a B.S. in business in marketing.

•The University of Vermont is proud to announce that the following local students have been named to the deanʼs list for the fall 2022 semester. Amelia Welter from River Vale, majoring in animal sciences; and Daniel Eror from River Vale, majoring in computer science.

• Local residents were among more than 1,600 students named to The University of Scrantonʼs Deanʼs List for the 2022 fall semester: Joseph R. Battista of River Vale, a freshman social media strategies major; Luca J. Honovic of River Vale, a freshman communication major; Aedan P. Potenza of Park Ridge, a freshman computer science major; Camryn A. Nagle of Hillsdale, a sophmore psychology major; Timothy A. Gallagher of River Vale, a senior computer science major; Sara J.

Tumminelli of the Township Washington, a sophmore occupational therapy major; Erin M. Fowler of the Township of Washington, a junior occupational therapy major; Olivia C. Neilan of Park Ridge, a junior nursing major; George A. Sengos of the Township Washington, a junior kinesiology major; Kayla S. Creagh of River Vale, a senior occupational therapy major; Brian E. Biml of Hillsdale, a senior operations management major; and Joshua T. DeMarco of Hillsdale, a senior business analytics major.

•Westwood resident John Quigley has been named to Western New England Universityʼs Presidentʼs List for the Fall 2022 semester. Quigley is working toward a BSE in mechanical engineering.

—John Snyder compiles Deanʼs List and More. Email your alumni updates, and news of other family milestones, to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net. Please include a telephone number for follow-up.

G Geet t t h he e R Re

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide THE SAVVY SENIOR: Long-term care with neither insurance nor savings

tool, the national median cost for an assisted living facility today is over $4,600 per month, while nursing home care runs more than $8,100 per month for a semi-private room. (See G enworth.com/aging-andyou/finances/cost-of-care.html to look up costs in your area.)

health insurance program for seniors 65 and older and those with disabilities) does not cover longterm care. It only provides limited short-term coverage, up to 100 days for skilled nursing or rehabilitation services after a three-day hospital stay.

Veterans benefits: If your mom is a wartime veteran, or a spouse or surviving spouse of a wartime veteran, thereis a benefit called Aid and Attendance that can help pay toward her long-term care.

BY JIMMILLER

Dear Savvy Senior, What types of financial resources are available to help seniors pay for long-term care? My 86year-old mother will need either an assisted living facility or nursing home care in the near future, but she doesnʼt have long-term care insurance and her savings are minimal.

Researching Daughter

Dear Searching, The cost of assisted living and nursing home care in the U.S is very expensive. According to the Genworth cost of care survey

Most people pay for longterm care (LTC) – which encompasses assisted living, nursing home and in-home care – with either personal funds, government programs or insurance. But if your mom is lacking in savings and has no LTC insurance to cover her costs, here are your best options to look for funding.

Medicaid (not Medicare): The first thing you need to know is that Medicare (the government

Medicaid, however, (the joint federal and state program that covers health care for the poor) does cover nursing home and inhome care. But to be eligible for coverage, your mother must be very low-income. Her countable assets canʼt be more than around $2,000, including investments. (Note that most people who enter a nursing home donʼt qualify for Medicaid at first but pay for care out-of-pocket until they deplete their savings enough to qualify.)

There are also many states that now have Medicaid waver programs that can help pay for assisted living. To get more information on Medicaid coverage and eligibility, call your state Medicaid office (see Medicaid.gov). You can also check your momʼs Medicaid eligibility at MedicaidPlanningAssistance.org.

To be eligible, your mom must need assistance with daily living activities like bathing, dressing or going to the bathroom. And her yearly income must be under $15,816 as a surviving spouse, or $24,610 for a single veteran – after her medical and long-term care expenses. Her assets must also be less than $138,489 excluding her home and car.

To learn more, see VA.gov/geriatrics, or contact your regional VA office, or your local veterans service organization. Call 800-827-1000 for contact information.

Life insurance: If your mom has a life insurance policy, find out if it offers an accelerated death benefit that would allow her to get a tax-free advance to help pay for her care.

Or consider selling her policy

to a life settlement company. These are companies that buy life insurance policies for cash, continue to pay the premiums and collect the death benefit when she dies. Most sellers generally get four to eight times more than the policy cash surrender value.

If she owns a policy with a face value of $100,000 or more and is interested in this option, get quotes from several brokers or life settlement providers. To locate some, use the Life Insurance Settlement Association member directory at LISA.org.

To look for these and other programs in your area that can help pay your momʼs long-term care, go to PayingForSeniorCare.com and click on “Find Financial Assistance for Care.”

Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Take charge against three types of stress

Stress is a leading cause of abnormal brain health and is therefore nicknamed “the silent killer.” A lot of people do not realize many of their symptoms may be caused by, or aggravated by stress. They may go to a bunch of doctors trying to discover where their symptoms are coming from, but do not get answers. They get bloodwork, X-rays, urinalysis, MRIs and ultrasounds, only to find out that all the tests are negative. Obviously it is good that the tests are negative, but it also might be frustrating because they know they do not feel well physically, but there are no abnormal test findings.

Sometimes it is possible that the environment may be influencing their health more than they realize.

For example, a big environmental influence that has a huge impact on health is the intake of water. Dehydration can cause headaches, menstrual cramps, dry skin, memory problems, digestive issues, and nighttime muscle cramps just to name a few. In addition to lack of sufficient water, lack of sleep can cause many other problems such as anxiety, fatigue, issues with focus or concentration, high blood pressure, low sex drive, obesity, or depression.

Another reason people may have an increase in symptoms in addition to lack of sleep or lack of water is lack of food, or if they have not eaten for a long time. This may lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, brain fog, fast heart beat, visual problems, irritability, lack of coordination, confusion, or sweating. If you are hypoglycemic, be sure you always have a snack on you and do not go more than two to three hours without eating something.

Moreover, if you have eaten

inflammatory foods such as dairy, gluten, corn, soy, coffee, alcohol, sugar, or sugar replacements, you might get joint pain, balance problems, muscles weakness, digestive problems, fatigue, skin problems, hormonal issues, heart problems, dry eyes, and brain issues.

However, even though lack of sleep, dehydration, or poor eating habits can cause lots of problems, the most common reason for an increase in symptoms is stress, therefore it is imperative that you avoid all stresses if you would like to function better, feel better, and live better.

There are three main stresses that must be avoided: Physical stress, emotional stress, biochemical stress. Physical stress would be sitting at the computer all day and typing on the keyboard or scrolling through your phone.

Examples of emotional stress would be if you are unsatisfied at work, have financial issues, are in a bad relationship, or do not like your current living situation. Biochemical stresses are toxins in our environment like the pesticides in food, the lead in the pipes, the fluoride in toothpaste or the aluminum in deodorant.

In regard to physical stress, we must get the body moving. If you are sitting at the computer all day, make sure you do what I call the “20 rule.” Every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to walk 20 feet and look 20 feet away and then go back to the computer. You can also do 20 seconds of jumping jacks, 20 push-ups, 20 sit-ups, 20 crunches, 20 squats, 20 lunges, 20 burpees, a 20 second sprint, 20 pullups, 20 seconds of jump rope, 20 seconds of backwards shoulder rolls, or do 20 seconds of shadow boxing.

This will help prevent anxiety, depression, back pain, headaches, and may even help with obesity, heart disease, and Alzheimerʼs disease.

Another important tip to consider is that you should never cause more physical stress on one side of the body versus the other side of the body. If

you are playing golf and are always twisting in one direction, practice swinging the other way so you donʼt break down one side quicker than the other side.

Even everyday activities like eating, brushing your teeth, shaving, brushing your hair, writing, carrying your bag, or walking your dog, can all be done using your non-dominant hand. It is very important to make sure you do not do activities that only stress one part of your body to keep things in balance, in alignment, and help to make the right and left brain communicate well with each other.

Another important aspect of reducing physical stress is going for walks everyday; preferably at sunrise and sunset to help set your circadian rhythms which will contribute to better sleep and more energy.

Additionally, start taking weekly fitness classes or playing sports that are written into your schedule, keeps you active and also keeps you more social. Use exercise to bond with your spouse, your children, and your friends. Perform these activities outside so you also get oxygen from the trees and vitamin D from the sunlight. It is recommended that you try exercises that make you strategize like tennis or take a dance class where you have to memorize all of the different steps.

Start being the one in the family that takes the dog out for a walk or gets up to help a family member. Moreover, it is helpful if you park your car in the parking spot furthest away from the entrance when you are running errands so you have to walk more, and if you take the steps instead of the elevator or the escalator to increase your daily activity.

Always give yourself a reason to move the body more often. If you are at a party and someone wants a glass of water, you can be the person that gets up and goes to the kitchen; therefore you get to move your body more, you did a good deed for someone else, and additionally, that will

encourage other people to do good deeds, as well.

Emotional stress is even more significant. Sometimes you might have to make major life changes to avoid emotional stress. Families dealing with major health issues like cancer or heart disease might need to consider moving out of the city and into the suburbs.

If you want to have less emotional stress, you can also practice mindfulness. For example, when eating a meal, smell the food, feel the texture in your mouth, enjoy each bite, chew your food 30 times, and focus on your swallow. Do not watch television, read the paper, or check social media at the dinner table which will distract you from eating mindfully.

Another example is when you work out, try to focus on the muscles you're working on, feel your breath increasing in lung capacity, feel your heart beating faster, take note of the sweat on your skin, and pay attention to your technique and posture. Do not be talking to your friend on the phone while you are on the machines, or do not be watching the news on the exercise bike because then you would not be practicing mindfulness and you would not be living in the moment.

The third stress is biochemical stress. This includes the chemicals we are exposed to such as deodorant, candles, laundry detergent, foods preserved in bags, plastic containers, cans, or boxes, aerosol sprays, suntan lotions, perfumes, cleaning products, plastic water bottles, and most beauty products. There are healthy alternatives.

It is absolutely necessary to reduce physical, emotional, and biochemical stresses to ensure that the body functions best and feels best. As a result you will prevent illness and

maximize your brainʼs potential and prevent memory loss and other neurological disorders. If you have stress in your life, it will make any medical condition you have much worse.

It does not matter if you have cancer, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, headaches, dizziness, Parkinsonʼs, Alzheimerʼs, back pain, coronavirus, MS, eczema, psoriasis, or arthritis, if you have high stress, your symptoms will be worse.

Act now on these great offers!

To find out more about Dr. Kaplanʼs holistic and integrative services please visit our website www.kaplandc.com. If you are interested in getting a non-invasive brain mapping test called a qEEG with neurofeedback, to determine how stress is affecting your brainwaves, please call or text 646-2216738 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com and mention this article. This test is normally $500, but if you call by the end of February, you can receive the brain mapping for only $21, so contact us today!

Live seminar series a value!

Lastly, I will be running a live Boost Your Brain Power Seminar Series that begins Feb. 22 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in River Edge. This first seminar is about the holistic and natural ways to reverse, as well as prevent, depression and anxiety. Each seminar, which covers different topics, is $100, but if you call or text 646-221-6738 before Feb. 22, you can go to all the live events, or participate on Zoom, or you can even get all the recordings for a total of $49 (only $8 a module). Itʼs a no brainer! Hope to see you there.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Community Calendar

FROM PAGE 20

• Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 10:30 a.m.: Music with Miss Nita: Share songs, play instruments, and enjoy rhythm in a relaxed, playful, family-style class. At 1 p.m.: Movie Matinee: “Till” (PG-13). At 5 p.m.: Mah Jongg Club: Bring your 2022 card and your own tiles, if possible! Drop in.

• Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. : Winter Story Time:Ages 2–5. At 4 p.m.: Tweens and Teens STEAM Activity: Engineering: Learn about engineering while you do two different STEM challenges, making a rollercoaster and making a tower. Drop in. At 1 p.m.: Alphabet Story Time: Ages 3–5. Signing up online signs you up for all eight sessions. At 6 p.m.: “When Broadway was Black.” Learn the story of New York in the Roaring Twenties and “Shuffle Along,” the very first Broadway show with an all-Black cast and creative team to succeed and the indelible mark its creators left on our popular culture. Presented by Caseen Gaines, author of “When Broadway Was Black: The Triumphant Story of the AllBlack Musical That Changed The World.” Open to all. Register to reserve a seat.

• Thursday, Feb. 23 at 10 a.m.: Morning Book Club: We meet monthly on Thursday mornings. Registration required. At 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga in-person, first come, first served. Doors open 15 minutes prior to scheduled class time.

• Friday, Feb. 24 at 10 a.m.: Knit and Crochet Group: Bring a project to work on and chat with other members. New members of all skill levels are welcome. At 5 p.m.: Afternoon Mah Jongg Club: Drop in.

T TOOWWNNSSHHIIP P O OF F

W WAASSHHIINNGGTTOON N

144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586

twpofwashingtonpl.org

•Mondays in February through April 3 (no class on Feb. 20) at 6 p.m.: Italian Classes with Bernado Petrocelii, a local ESL and foreign language teacher Please register.

•Tuesdays in February at 10 a.m.: Story Time ages 2–3. Songs, movement, and stories. At 4:30 p.m.: Teen Tuesdays: A combination of Nintendo Switch gaming, crafts, games, and snacks.

• Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 5:30

p.m.: Mat Yoga: Open to all levels of practice. Please bring your own mat and any props you may need, such as blocks, straps, or bolster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in.

•Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 3:45 p.m.: Stuff a Pet Story Time ages 3-5. Learn about a woodland animal and make a stuffed animal friend to keep. Registration required.

•Thursdays in February at 3:45 p.m.: Pre-K Story Time: Ages 3–5. Music, movement, stories, social growth and early literacy.

• Fridays in February at 10 a.m.: Friday Friends: For infants and toddlers up to 2. At 1 p.m.: A dult Coloring and Craft Group. Coloring supplies will be provided or you can bring your own craft project to work on.

• Friday, Feb. 24 at 1 p.m.: Coloring & Crafting: Calling all coloring fans, stitchers, knitters, crocheters, and more. Craft & chat with friends Refreshments and coloring supplies will be provided, or you can bring your own project to work on.

•Saturday, Feb. 25 at 10:30 a.m: Mat Yoga Open to all levels of practice. Bring your own mat and any props you may need, such as blocks, straps, or bolster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in.

W WEESSTTWWOOOOD D 49 Park Ave. (201) 664-0583 westwoodpubliclibrary.org

• Monday, Feb. 21 at 1 p.m.: Movie Matinee: March to the Oscars:Tar: Join us in our countdown to the Oscars on March 12. Weʼll be showing some of this yearʼs nominees and youʼll get the chance to vote for who you think will win. Pick up your voting ballots at the front desk and turn them in on or before Friday, March 10. The person with the most right will win a prize!

Registration required. At 2 p.m.: Origami Woodland Animals g rades K–2: Registration required.

•Wednesday, Feb. 23 at 1 p.m.: Movie Matinee: March to the Oscars: “Batman.” At 3:45 p.m.: Winter STEM grades 3–5:

Registration required

•Friday, Feb. 24 at 10:30 a.m.: African Dance: Children will benefit from improved physical, emotional and mental health while learning about different dances of Africa. Join us for this fun way for little ones to release t heir energy and excitement. Registration required

•Friday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m.: Backyard Beekeeping: Join us for another Garden Club presentation, this one all about getting bees going in your own backyard. Join local beekeeper Sherif Tosuni as he gives you the lowdown on how to get started.

•Fridays in February at 11 a.m.: Knitting & Crocheting Club: Gather and work on your current knitting and crocheting projects as you chat and socialize with fellow yarn-lovers. Bring your own supplies and trade tips and ideas, share patterns, and create beautiful pieces alongside friends. All skill levels are welcome. This club meets weekly with light refreshments served. Registration required.

Pool registration underway

The Park Ridge Municipal Pool will open on Saturday, May 27. Pool memberships are open to all residents, previous pool members, and non-resident employees of Park Ridge borough and the local board of education.

A limited number of memberships will be offered to non-residents, so get your registrations in early once they are available.

New non-residents must be sponsored by a Park Ridge resident or prior pool member.

Membership rates remain what they were in 2019:

• Resident family: $410

• Resident single: $300

• Resident seniors: Free

• Non-resident family: $510

• Non-resident: single: $360

• Non-resident senior: $75/$100 per couple (both must be 65 or older).

Registration is available electronically from Feb. 15 on the Park Ridge Municipal Pool page at parkridgeboro.com. Note the registration due dates to avoid a $35 late fee. If electronic signup is not possible, paper pool registration forms can be picked up at the pool office weekends, from May 6, from noon to 3 p.m.

Please read the pool information packet concerning hours of operation, guest fees, swim lessons and other important information by clicking on the link on the Park Ridge Municipal Pool page page.

The Park Ridge Municipal Pool normally provides swim lessons and such activities as competitive swim and dive teams, arts and crafts, story time, Red Cross lifeguard training, and other special events as posted throughout the summer.

For more information visit parkridgeboro.com or write pool@parkridgeboro.com

Diamond Vision laser treatments offered in Paramus

Dr. Steven Stetson, MD is a board-certified ophthalmologist who has led Diamond Vision since 2009 with a mission of providing outstanding refractive surgery services to the public by investing in cutting edge technologies and marrying them with unrivaled surgical technique and experience.

Stetson is a decorated veteran, and was chief of the U.S. Air Force Academyʼs prestigious Laser Eye Clinic, where he had the privilege to perform the first LASIK procedure on an active duty U.S. Air Force airman, a four-star general who was then commander of NORAD and U.S. Space Command.

Refractive surgery services provided at Diamond Vision include all-laser LASIK (Intralase,) traditional LASIK, photo-refractive keratectomy (PRK,) astigmatic keratecomy, Implantable collamer Lenses/EVO ICL, cataract extraction and refractive lens exchange, as well as ocular surface enhancing

services such as Lipiflow and IPL (intense pulse light.)

The team at Diamond Vision, a Sharpest Vision brand, is dedicated to seeing their patients thrive and improving their quality of life by enhancing their visual freedom — and reducing their dependence on glasses and contact lenses.

About Topography-Guided LASIK

In topo-guided LASIK, a topography instrument maps the cornea to guide the laser procedure with extreme precision. The instrument, the Vario Topolyzer, measures 22,000 microscopic peaks and valleys on the cornea.

The measurement map is used to create customized laser treatment and a smooth cornea for every patient.

Topo-guided lasers provide the ability to smooth irregular hills and valleys on the cornea while wavefront-guided lasers bounce light off the back of the eye to iden-

tify and then reduce vision aberrations that can cause blurred eyesight.

Diamond Vision utilizes both of these sight-improving technologies, allowing for a truly customized laser vision correction procedure.

Diamond Vision invests in the latest technology to ensure only proper candidates for laser surgery undergo vision correction procedures. See for yourself. At its locations throughout the Tri-State Area, Diamond Vision, a Sharpest Vision brand, is a full-service refractive practice and performs a multitude of eye procedures to reduce dependency on glasses.

When you go

Diamond Vision is at 1 Kalisa Way #209, Paramus. Call (888) 678-4341. For hours, to schedule a free consultation, for appointments, and details on fees and services, visit diamondvision.com.

PARK RIDGE

CONSIDER THESE THREE SUGGESTIONS IF YOU INHERIT A TRUST

David “Chico”

Esparza, Senior Fiduciary Advisory Specialist with Wells Fargo Private Bank, remembers meeting two clients, a brother and sister whose parents had passed away. “Unfortunately, their parents had not discussed their estate plans with the adult children. When the siblings learned they were the beneficiaries of a sizable trust,” Esparza recalls, “they had no idea what to do next.”

The brother and sister had many questions. Who handles the estate? What are the terms of the trust? And what should their next steps be? “Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., was the trustee, so we explained the timeline and process for settling the trust estate,” Esparza says. “It helped to ease their minds to know that professionals would be handling everything.”

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

Build an advisory team

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

“There will be a lot of questions, so itʼs important to establish a communication plan and a general timeframe for how long it will take to settle the estate,” Esparza says.

In some instances, once the estate is settled, a new trust is funded with the beneficiaryʼs share of the estate; in other cases, assets

will be distributed outright to the beneficiary. If the assets will be retained in trust, the trustee typically collaborates with an investment advisor to help manage the assets according to the terms of the trust.

“The trustee and investment advisor will create a plan that is based on the terms of the trust and considers the needs of the beneficiary,” Esparza says. “Beneficiaries also should consider seeking the guidance of a tax consultant regarding tax implications related to trust distribution.”

Understand the terms of the trust

One of the first questions a beneficiary might have for the advisory team is, “What does the trust mean for me?”

Esparza explains that a trust is a useful tool for holding, managing, and distributing property as outlined by the trustor(s) - the creator(s) of the trust - in the trust agreement, but each trust is unique in how assets can be distributed to beneficiaries. It is important to understand the terms of the trust. Some key trust aspects to discuss include:

• Beneficiary or beneficiaries: Is there a sole or several beneficiaries of the trust? How do the terms address the rights different beneficiaries have to distributions from the trust?

• Age restrictions: Does the beneficiary have to reach a certain age before accessing some or all of the trust?

• Distribution restrictions: Can beneficiaries access the principal or just the income from the trust? Does the beneficiary need to provide the trustee with proof of the beneficiaryʼs own income and expenses to receive distributions? What categories of expenses can the trust cover for the beneficiary? For what reasons may distributions

be adjusted?

• Lifetime of the trust: Does the trust terminate once the beneficiary reaches a certain age, or is it meant to last the beneficiaryʼs lifetime? Is any portion of the trust designated for future generations?

“Trusts are an opportunity to build generational wealth, not only for the trustor but also for the beneficiary,” Esparza says. “For that reason, the trustee should be thoughtful in administrating the trust to help the funds last not only through beneficiaryʼs lifetime but also potentially for future generations.”

Ask questions before taking distributions

“Before taking a trust distribution, some beneficiaries find it useful to inquire about the potential tax consequences.

Thatʼs where a tax advisor should provide guidance,” Esparza says. “Beneficiaries also may consider consulting with the trustee and investment advisor about additional considerations or impacts a trust distribution may have.” In addition, beneficiaries should consult with their own legal counsel if they have specific questions regarding their rights with respect to a trust or the possible impact of a trust distribution.

Esparza shares the story of a young beneficiary who wanted to use her trust fund to purchase a luxury car when she turned 16. “As trustee, I posed this question: ʻWould a less-expensive car meet your transportation goals and preserve trust assets for the long term?ʼ” he says. “It is important for beneficiaries to stay connected with the trustee and to ask clarifying questions so they understand the impact certain distributions may have to the trust. As a fiduciary, a trustee is there to educate and can help the trust sustain longer term financial well-being

for the beneficiary.”

Wells Fargo Private Bank offers products and services through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, and its various affiliates and subsidiaries. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. is a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. offers various advisory and fiduciary products and services including discretionary portfolio management. Wells Fargo affiliates, including financial advisors of Wells Fargo Advisors, a separate non-bank affiliate, may be paid an ongoing or one-time referral fee in relation to clients referred to the bank. The bank is responsible for the day-to-day management of the account and for providing investment advice, investment management services, and wealth management services to clients. The role of the financial advisor with respect to the Bank products and services is limited to referral and relationship management services. Some of The Private Bank experiences may be available to clients of Wells Fargo Advisors without a

relationship with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Wells Fargo & Company and its affiliates do not provide legal or tax advice. Wells Fargo Advisors is not a legal or tax advisor. Please consult your legal advisors to determine how this information may apply to your own situation.

Whether any planned tax result is realized by you depends on the specific facts of your own situation at the time your taxes are prepared.

Trust services available through banking and trust affiliates in addition to non-affiliated companies of Wells Fargo Advisors. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state.

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

Elks’ St. Pat’s dinner March 4

Park Ridge Elks Lodge holds its St. Patrickʼs Day Celebration March 4 from 7:30 p.m. to midnight. Dinner is traditional corned beef and cabbage, with dessert. All are welcome.

Live entertainment is via

High Strung Band and Irish Step Dancers. Tickets are $45 per person. For tickets/reservations, call or text Shelly Thiele at (201) 8352246. The lodge address is 13 Sulak Lane.

MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

07642

ERIC KOHLMEIER

National: Pascack Valley Regional Dance Team delivers

FROM PAGE 1

earning a National Championship title received a National Champion trophy, National Champion jackets for each team member and coach, National Champion rings for each

team member and coach, and a National Champion banner.

DTUsaid, “We know itʼs not just about what is put on the competition floor, but about the journey it takes to get there. We have been lucky enough to follow many

teams on their road to nationals and witness the hard work and dedication from not only the dancers and coaches, but also their adoring fans.”

Coach Dena Noone told Pascack Press on Feb. 15, “This year we decided to do a third routine and we decided to do hip-hop. Taking on three routines is a lot but the girls were driven and enthusiastic about doing hip-hop. The girls really clicked as a family this year which made practices very easy. They truly enjoyed each otherʼs company and working hard to perfect three routines.”

Noone, who said the team went to its first national in 1988 when she was a senior at PV and captain of the team, said, “We

decided to go different with our palm routine this year Our theme was tribal and it was not your typical pom routine. The music was very powerful and the routine was very athletic as well as creatively artistic.”

Elissa Grabow, a team mom, told Pascack Press on Feb. 14, “These athletes beat out incredible teams from across the nation but our girls brought back the championship to New Jersey!”

She said, “Our kids have gone through so much these past few years, and with life being so hard on our children, this dance groupʼs focus, hard work, and pure teamwork got it done.”

She added, “They werenʼt home scrolling through TikTok”

but rather “jumped into teamwork, socialization and exercise. This outlet of dance brought them so much happiness. If only every high school student knew the value of putting those devices down and joining a club or team that gave them purpose and brought happiness into their lives, how great would that be!”

On Feb. 15, Grabow followed up with us specifically to praise the coaching staff: “Dena has run the program from three decades and I have to give accolades to her leadership. As a parent of a student athlete, Dena and Val (our other amazing coach) have created a team environment based on connection, support, dedication and kindness.”

Tobin leads two Ash Wednesday Masses

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, will celebrate Ash Wednesday with two Masses — one in English and one in Spanish — on Feb 22 at St. Patrickʼs Pro-Cathedral in Newark.

Tobin will preside over the first service in English at noon followed by his second Mass in Spanish at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome.

Ash Wednesday is one of the most significant holy days of the liturgical calendar because it marks the beginning of Lent, the six week-period of prayer, repen-

tance, and sacrifice leading up to Easter.

During an Ash Wednesday Mass, priests traditionally place ashes — which are the charred remains of palm fronds from the prior yearʼs Palm Sunday — onto a parishionerʼs forehead in the sign of the cross to symbolize that God made everyone out of dust, and all shall return to dust at the end of their lives. Catholics then wear the ashes for the rest of the day as a sign of penance for their sins.

Following Mass, Catholics are expected to spend Ash Wed-

nesday fasting, repenting, and abstaining from meat. Then, over the next several weeks, the faithful will commemorate Christʼs 40 days of temptation by praying, repenting, abstaining from meat on Fridays, fasting on Good Friday, and making a Lenten sacrifice, which means giving up something they find particularly enjoyable for the entirety of Lent. This period ends on Holy Thursday, which falls on April 6 this year

To learn more about the Archdiocese of Newark, visit rcan.org

Front to back, left to right: Coach Valentina DeSantis, Madison Sgroi, Sophia Haag, Jessie Maron, Lisa DeGise, Sienna Bruno, Coach Dena Noone, Caitlyn Johnson, Emma Brazofsky, Gia Macaluso, Lily Memija, Olivia Mattessich, Emma Nagler, Sam Forrest, Zoe Grabow, Joely Ross, Abby Fox.

Photo: Anthony Sgroi.

The Pascack Valley Regional Dance Team in their large varsity team performance routine.

Photo:Anthony Sgroi

NEWARK

Fierce! The Pascack Valley Regional Dance Team perform their small varsity pom routine.

Photo:Anthony Sgroi.

What to know about landscape lighting

Home improvement trends come and go, and one trend that has become wildly popular in recent years is recognizable in yards every night. Landscape lighting has transformed how people see and enjoy their properties at night, making it one of the more sought-after upgrades among modern homeowners.

Curb appeal is often seen through the lens of how homes appear during daylight hours, but landscape lighting can make homes look better and more mod-

ern, and potentially safer, after the sun goes down. With such potential, landscape lighting is worth exploring for homeowners looking to upgrade their properties.

Are there different types of landscape lighting?

When considering landscape lighting, homeowners should know that there are various options to consider. According to the lighting experts at Lumens, spotlights project a concentrated and narrow beam of light thatʼs

usually around 45 degrees. Spotlights are often chosen to highlight specific features on a property, like a component of the landscaping.

Individuals who want to cast light over wider, more general areas may consider floodlights,

which Lumens notes spread light up to 120 degrees.

Inground lighting is among the more sophisticated landscape lighting options. Lumens notes that inground lighting illuminates the whole of a tree or structure, often creating a dramatic

l ook. These circle-shaped lights also are great at illuminating walkways and driveways.

Post lights are another outdoor lighting option, and these are often used to light up long walkways and pathways so itʼs easier and safer to navigate dark areas at night.

Is landscape lighting a job a DIYer can handle?

Many homeowners consider a do-it-yourself approach when pondering a potential home renovation, and a landscape lighting project is likely to inspire such curiosity as well. The home experts at HGTV note that the feasibility of DIY in regard to a landscape lighting project depends on the type of lighting homeowners want to install and where they want to install it.

Replacing an existing electrical fixture may be well within the skill of a seasoned DIYer, but installing a new fixture is a job best left to the professionals. Homeowners whose homes currently have no or very little landscape lighting are almost certainly better off working with a professional. Solar lighting that does not require any electrical work can be installed quickly and easily by anyone, but such options may not provide the look homeowners are aiming for

How much lighting is necessary?

The amount of lighting homeowners want to install is up to them. If the home currently has little or no landscape lighting, a consultation with a professional can help to determine how much lighting to install and where to install it.

When discussing landscape lighting, homeowners may want to inquire about dimmers. Dimmers can increase or decrease lighting depending on the situation. For example, homeowners may want a little extra light during a party, but less when relaxing alone outside at night. Dimmers allow homeowners to adjust as necessary.

Landscape lighting is a popular home renovation trend. Homeowners considering adding landscape lighting to their property are urged to work with a skilled professional to devise and install a set-up that makes their homes more appealing at night.

Landscape lighting is worth exploring for homeowners looking to upgrade their properties.

Minor exterior upgrades that can help sell a home

The home improvement industry has been booming for years, but forecasters are projecting a deceleration in 2023 and perhaps beyond. Estimates from the Home Improvement Research Institute, which is the leading market research resource for the home and building products industry, indicate that growth in the home improvement products market is expected to decelerate from 7.2 percent in 2022 to 1.5 percent in 2023. Inflation continues to affect consumer spending, and homeowners may be looking to spend less on renovations in the year ahead.

Minor upgrades that arenʼt as costly as larger projects can still make a big difference, especially among prospective buyers. When looking for minor upgrades that can help sell a home, homeowners can rely on Remodeling magazineʼs annual “Cost vs. Value Report.” That report analyzes costs for an assortment of remodeling projects and determines the value of those projects at resale. Though resale value depends on a host of variables, including location, the following are some relatively minor exterior upgrades that impress buyers and provide a strong return for homeowners.

• Garage door replacement: Garage doors matter more than sellers may recognize, as various real estate professionals note that buyers appreciate homes with updated garage doors. Thatʼs good

news for homeowners, as the “2022 Cost vs. Value Report” indicated homeowners recoup roughly 93 percent of their garage door replacement investment at resale. The average cost of such a job is right around $4,000, making this a budget-friendly remodeling project.

• Window replacement: The cost of new windows will depend on just how many windows must be replaced.

But thereʼs no denying buyers like the idea of low emissivity

(low-E) windows, which can cut energy bills by a significant amount over time. The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy estimates that heat gain and heat loss through windows is responsible for between 25 and 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use, so sellers who can tell buyers they have new lowE windows can emphasize those savings in home listings. The “2022 Cost vs. Value Report” indicates that homeowners recoup roughly two-thirds of their invest-

SCHOLARSHIP FOR LIBRARY SCIENCES STUDENT

WESTWOOD

IFYOUARE a Westwood resident enrolled in graduate library school in an ALA-accredited graduate library school program, consider applying for the Friends of the Westwood Library Shy Touba Memorial Scholarship. Named in honor of Shy Touba, a beloved member of the Friends, a $3,000 scholarship will be awarded to assist with tuition and course fees.

According to Friends President Rosemary Roche, “Supporting future librarians has long been the mission of the Friends of the Westwood Library. We are looking forward to receiving applications from our Westwood residents.”

The application form can be downloaded from the Westwood Library at westwoodpubliclibrary.org/friends-scholarship.html and must be accompanied by:

• Transcript of current courses and grades. Applicant must have completed a minimum of 6 credits from an accredited program at time of submission;

• Transcript of completed courses and grades and current course(s);

• Personal statement of educational and library career goals;

• Two letters of recommendation; and

• Proof of residency in Westwood.

Applications and additional materials may be mailed or delivered to Westwood Public Library. Address the envelope to: Friends Scholarship Committee, Westwood Public Library, 49 Park Avenue, Westwood, NJ 07675.

The deadline for submission is April 1, 2023. The applicant must maintain a B average. Payment of award will be made at completion of the spring semester course(s).

The president of the Friends and the scholarship committee will review applications of the most promising applicants. Finalists for the award will be interviewed. Announcement of the scholarship winner and presentation of the award will be held at the May meeting of the Friends of the Westwood Library.

The Friends of the Westwood Library is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization formed “to actively support the library through advocating, fundraising and volunteering. The Friends of the Westwood Public Library welcome all newcomers to the organization. Please join us.”

ment in new windows at resale.

• Landscaping: Well-maintained landscaping is another home exterior component that can make a strong first impression on buyers. A recent survey of nearly 7,000 realtors conducted by the National Association of Realtors found that upgrading a landscape recouped roughly 83 percent of homeownersʼinitial investment at

resale. In addition, 11 percent of realtors surveyed indicated that an upgraded landscape was the decisive factor that closed the deal for the house.

Updating a homeʼs exterior doesnʼt have to bust homeownersʼ budgets. Many affordable projects also provide a substantial return at resale.

Updated garage doors add curb appeal and provide a strong return on homeowners’ investment at resale.

Three factors to consider before converting an attic

At the onset of the COVID19 pandemic, many homeowners s uddenly found themselves in need of more usable square footage in their homes. Required to work from home due to social distancing recommendations, millions of working professionals suddenly found themselves setting up shop at kitchen tables or islands, in alcoves, garages, or even walk-in closets. Those makeshift offices were never supposed to be permanent, but as c ompanies loosen workplace policies and embrace full remote or hybrid working arrangements, professionals are seeking more permanent home office solutions.

Home additions are a possibility for homeowners who need more usable square footage, but add-ons may not be the right option for everyone. If adding on wonʼt work, homeowners may want to look up ... at their attics.

Attics with ample space can make for ideal home offices, as theyʼre away from the hustle and bustle of a homeʼs main floor. That can make it easier to concentrate when everyone is in the house and reduce the likelihood that video calls with colleagues and clients will be interrupted by kids and pets.

Attic conversions are not always possible, and the following are three important factors homeowners may need to consider before they can go forward with such projects.

1. Dimensions: Both the

renovation experts at This Old House and the real estate experts at UpNest indicate that at least half of a finished attic must be a minimum of seven feet high and seven feet wide and 70 square feet. Requirements may differ depending on where homeowners live, but that 7-7-70 guideline is generally the minimum requirement. An attic that fails to meet such requirements wonʼt neces-

sarily be a lost cause, but it might be costly to make adjustments that ultimately align with local codes.

2. Access: Access is another aspect that must adhere to local safety guidelines. Many attics are accessible only through pulldown ladders, but that will have to change if homeowners repurpose their attic spaces. A staircase that complies

with local laws will need to be installed, and contractors can work with homeowners to build that and estimate the cost. Homeowners who simply want to put desks in their attics without going with full-fledged conversions are urged to adhere to local access requirements anyway, as theyʼre intended to ensure residents can safely escape attics in the case of a fire or another emergency.

3. Climate control: Attics are converted to provide residents with more livable space. Converted space is only livable if the climate within the attic can be controlled so itʼs cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

A n existing HVAC unit needs to efficiently heat and cool an extra room. If it canʼt, bills might spike because the rest of the home likely wonʼt be as comfortable, forcing homeowners to adjust thermostats to offset that discomfort. T hat also could affect the unitʼs life expectancy.

Before going forward with an attic renovation, homeowners should contact HVAC professionals to determine if attic spaces can be serviced with the existing units and ductwork, or if an alternative arrangement must be worked out to make the spaces livable.

Attic conversions can be great ways to make existing spaces more livable. Homeowners considering such projects should pay attention to three important variables as they try to determine if attic conversions will work for them. pandemic, m any homeowners suddenly found themselves in need of more usable square footage in their homes.

Required to work from home due to social distancing recommendations, millions of working professionals suddenly f ound themselves setting up shop at kitchen tables or islands, in alcoves, garages, or even w alk-in closets. Those makeshift offices were never supposed to be permanent, but as companies loosen workplace policies and embrace full remote or hybrid working arrangements, professionals are seeking more permanent home office solutions.

Home additions are a possibility for homeowners who need more usable square footage, but add-ons may not be the right option for everyone. If adding on wonʼt work, homeowners may want to look up ... at their attics.

WE PERFORM ALL PHASES OF LANDSCAPING AND HARDSCAPE WORK: Specializing in developing creative, custom landscape solutions and outdoor Living Spaces, our concept plans and 3-D renderings will help you to Visualize, Plan, Budget, and Experience Your Space.

Heather A. CASTRONOVA

Heather A. Castronova, born March 3, 1978, formerly of the Township of Washington, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday Feb. 8, 2023 at her home in Allendale.

Heather is the beloved daughter of Mary Ann Cumming and the late Arthur J. Cumming; loving mother of Gina and A.J.; sister of Scott; and cherished niece of Elizabeth and Kenneth Gheno. Heather is survived by many other family members.

Heather was born in Hackensack and graduated from Hackensack High School. She joined the United States Marine Corps in 1997. After graduating from basic training at Parris Island, she served in Quantico, Va., Twentynine Palms, Calif., and Okinawa, Japan. She attained the rank of sergeant and specialized in communications. She received two Navy Achievement awards.

Upon returning Stateside, she worked as a Bergen County Police Department dispatcher. After five

OBITUARIES

years she attended the police academy and was the first woman to compete in the Iron Person competition, finishing in third place.

In 2002, she was hired as the first female police officer in the Township of Washington. During her time as an officer, she was in charge of organizing the Pascack Valley Junior Police Academy — Chief Richard Skinner handed the project over to her following his promotion — as well as other activities such as in-class teaching of students about cell phone safety.

Heather held the titles of juvenile officer and domestic violence officer, and had roles in community policing and public information.

In 2018, she was promoted to detective. She received an Outstanding Law Enforcement Professional award.

In retirement, Heather was a member of the PTO and class mother at Jessie F George school. She spent the majority of her time involved with her childrenʼs education and sports activities.

She was the first female member of VFW Post 6192 in the Township. She was junior vice commander and worked on graphic design as public affairs officer.

This newspaper covered Cas-

tronovaʼs community service and rise to detective in “Township officers promoted amid bagpipe, drum fanfare,” Dec. 17, 2018. In “Township dedicates scoutʼs veterans memorial,” Nov. 15, 2019, Eagle Scout James Stickel lauds Castronova and other town boosters, on and off the police department, for their assistance to his inclusive Eagle project.

In announcing the news of her loss, Skinner posted, “All of us at the Washington Township Police Department are deeply saddened by Heatherʼs passing. She was a friend, colleague and our law enforcement sister. The department has come together to grieve collectively. We would ask that you keep her family and her children in your prayers.”

To celebrate Heatherʼs life, family and friends will be received at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, N.J. on Sunday, Feb. 19 from 2 to 6 p.m. On Tuesday, Feb. 21, friends are invited to Becker Funeral Home at 11 a.m., followed by a procession to the Tower Chapel at George Washington Cemetery, 234 Paramus Road, Paramus.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of

Heather Castronova to VFW Post 6192. vfw6192.org.

Assistance for A.J. and Gina is welcome at gofundme.com/f/ in-memory-of-heather-castronova.

Peter YOTNAKPARIAN

Peter Yotnakparian of the Township of Washington passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, Feb. 10, 2023.

Peter was a fan of music, movies and fine food as well as the “owner” of Diamond Beach & Wildwood Crest. Born in New York, N.Y. to Harry and Imelda Yotnakparian, he had a passionate disposition, proudly blending both his Armenian and Irish heritage along with his Catholic upbringing. Peter served in the United States Army with lifelong friends Dino Venuto and Nick Chanda and became battery commander and first lieutenant.

Peterʼs greatest pride came from his marriage of 63 years to his loving wife, Ann (Bedrosian) Yotnakparian. They moved to Washing-

ton Township right from their honeymoon, and spent their entire lives together.

Peter went on to become a founding member of the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus. Together, he and Ann raised two children, Michael and his wife, Joanne; and Johnny and his wife, Tina, who blessed Peter with grandchildren, Cassidy and Logan, the loves of his life.

His artistic passion propelled him into a career managing the Harry B. Yotnakparian Art Gallery on Madison Avenue for more than 45 years.

Peter will be remembered for his endless generosity and huge heart filled with love for his family he was always there when needed.

In addition to his children, “daughters,” and grandchildren, he is survived by brothers-in-law George and wife, Liliana; Bert and wife, Rosemary; cherished nieces and nephews; godchildren; and numerous friends.

He was predeceased by siblings Vee Kerbeykian and husband, Armen; Jeanette Tatosian and husband, Charles; Nannette Gawel and husband, Boley; and brother-in-law Peter and wife, Joan.

SEE OBITUARIES PAGE 39

Cooking: Tots inaugurate renovated center kitchen

FROM PAGE 1

Jan. 26, “Kudos to Gary Buchheister, our recreation director, and to our rec board members for their vision (and patience) that has given us a fully upgraded Community Center kitchen.”

He emphasized, “No taxpayer dollars were involved. And the new rental fee schedule ensures these trust fund dollars will soon be replenished.”

The renovation, he said, now enables residents to plan events that might require onsite food preparation. The kitchen features a six-burner commercial gas stove

and oven, triple-basin sink for cleaning and sanitizing, stainless steel countertops and prep island, and two large refrigerator/freezers.

The kitchen now also includes important safety features such as a dedicated handwash station, an upgraded commercial exhaust hood, and a new fire suppression system.

Buchheister told Pascack Press the renovation was an important part in the departmentʼs long-term facility improvement plan. “Having a safe and fully functional kitchen in the community center creates many new

event and programming opportunities. We look forward to exploring the creation of new life-skills classes for all ages such as nutrition, cooking and baking, as well as working with local chefs and caterers on private events and programs.”

As part of the grand opening, the department said, “Westwood Recreation Preschool students were given the honor of being the first to cook in the new kitchen.

Teachers Natalie Boes and Kim Quill worked with their ʻlittle chefsʼ to prepare a spaghetti lunch as part of their study of the Caldecott award-winning childrenʼs

book ʻStrega Nonaʼ[1979], which features a kindly witch with a magic pasta pot who helps feed her village.”

Buchheister said residents and neighbors who participate in Westwood Recreation programs will receive information on upcoming cooking classes in program guides, emails, and on social media.

He told us, “Iʼve been working toward this since the day I first stepped in here, 16, 15 years ago. The issue came to fruition when we tried to do a cooking class, and I was instructed by our local fire official — and he was completely in the right — that weʼre not allowed to do any cooking, because itʼs not a commercial kitchen.”

He said, “The previous kitchen had a little vent, but youʼre not allowed to do anything…. even boil hot dogs. You have to have a full hood and fire suppression system, so we werenʼt able to utilize it.”

Before the facility was the boroughʼs community center it was the borough hall, and before that it was a car dealership.

“This buildingʼs been recycled a couple of times over,” Buchheister said. “When they renovated it to the community center, they didnʼt have foresight, or maybe the funding wasnʼt there. They did it as inexpensively as possible. Now we have a commercial oven, burners, everything is stainless steel, and by health code you have to have a grease interceptor, a hand wash sink, a threecompartment sink — this is all by

code.”

And he said the investment was all the more important as the community center is an evacuation site and an emergency warming and cooling site.

“We literally just finished it. Weʼre in the process of our due diligence, and weʼre going to put together policies on rentals, be it for a reunion party or for a local organizationʼs pancake breakfast, or if a local entrepreneur has, say, a dessert company and theyʼre working out of their house, and they needed to cook in a commercial kitchen overnight — thatʼs how a lot of these things work — then they could rent this out. So itʼs a benefit for them and rental income for the town,” he said.

Certainly the center is popular today, said Buchheister “Seniors, boy scouts, girl scouts, all the local PTAs and PTOs have their fundraisers here; we have our classes; and eventually weʼre looking at starting cooking classes for adults, kids, seniors…”

Other center amenities include two large multipurpose rooms, a full-court gymnasium, a meeting room seating up to 16 people, a preschool, and the Recreation Department office.

To learn more about facility rentals with use of the kitchen for private events or for use by professional chefs and catering companies, contact Buchheister at (201) 664-7882 or email gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov

Westwood Recreation programs and forms are listed at westwoodnj.gov/recreation

Trail: Towns, Veolia on plan

FROM PAGE 11 tact with the municipalities and they can contact us at any time. I do not have a schedule of events for April 22 as of yet.”

While both Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake received prior state grants to pay for trail improvements/maintenance, Hillsdale was not able to get a state trail grant and may be required to pay $25,000 to $30,000 for its share of trail improvements, security, and trail maintenance, said officials.

At the Feb. 7 meeting, Ruocco said original budget estimates ranged from about $26,000 up to possibly $34,000 per town. He said one estimate from 2015 ranged around $100,000 in total, split three ways between towns.

Francaviglia said he was concerned about security around the reservoir and what cameras would be OK with Veolia.

Troast said he was under the impression that trail cameras, or hunting cameras, that would record but not provide a direct feed to police would be fine..

Troast said that it was likely all three towns were facing the same issues and having concerns about how to provide the requirements in the licensing agreement.

Councilwoman Abby Lundy worried requirements in the agreement might be “cost prohibitive” including gates and related security and needed further information.

At one point Feb. 7, Francaviglia said a requirement for police keeping a daily log of security gate

FROM PAGE 38 Obituaries:

openings and closings was “not feasible at all.”

Troast suggested that the other two towns who have been pushing for the trail should likely lead the way in completing it.

In mid-December, Woodcliff Lake councilwoman Jennifer Margolis told Pascack Press, “A revised agreement needs to be given to the municipalities and then it has to be signed. The walkway will require some clearing and maintenance in certain areas.”

She said, “Also, some security arrangements have to be made in regards to access, etc. It does look like we are in the home stretch after many years.”

More: Shakeup in Hillsdale

FROM PAGE 14

Ruocco said it was “a large question” with “many answers and aspects” that could not be answered then and asked for council comments. None were offered.

Other business

The council also noted correspondence — an email received from Thomas Casale regarding Stonybrook and CMFO; and an email received from John Pinelli requesting a crosswalk be installed at the intersection of Ruckman Road and Watson Place/Edgewood Court.

And it passed a variety of other resolutions:

•Authorizing the award of a

non-fair and open contract for quarterly slam bar testing and reporting at the Hillsdale Centennial Recreation Field with the Environmental Group/Environmental Investigations, LLC.

• Authorizing the signing of an agreement with Colliers Engineering & Design for quality calculations, construction observation and administration services for the 2023 paving program.

•Approving the purchase of police car lights/accessories from the State of New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Program.

•Approving the purchase of police car radio communication equipment and accessories from the State of New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Program.

• Appointing redactors in

compliance with Danielʼs Law requirements for the Borough of Hillsdale.

•Executing a grant agreement with the County of Bergen for the 2022 Bergen County Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, Farmland & Historic Preservation Trust Fund – Beechwood Park Trail.

•Authorizing the return of escrow to HWW LCC for 416–432 Hillsdale Ave.

• Approving the purchase of playground equipment for McSpirit/Glendale Park from the stateʼs co-op purchasing program.

•Forwarding the Planning Board a proposed resolution determining that certain properties constitute “An Area in Need of Rehabilitation.”

The family will receive relatives and friends on Monday, Feb. 13 from 3:30to 7:30 p.m. at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, Feb. 14 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 668 Ridgewood Road, Washington Township. Interment will follow at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah.

Harry J. SMITH

Harry Joseph Smith, 93, of River Vale, passed away on Jan. 26, 2023. He was born and raised in Hawthorne. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany.

Before retiring, Harry was a mailman in the Hillsdale Post Office for 40 years. Our parents retired to Greenwood, Del. until Mom passed in 2019.

Beloved husband of the late June (née Connett) Smith, having been married for 67 years. Devoted father of Jerry Smith and his wife, Terri, of Pagosa Springs, Colo.; Kirby Smith and his wife, Nerissa, of River Edge; and Suzannah Cline and her husband, Charlie, of River Vale.

Loving grandfather to Kevin, Jennifer, Hannah, Adam, and Matthew Harry was predeceased by his sister, Doris Verhoest.

Donations are welcome to ECLC of New Jersey (eclcofnj.org), or you are invited to plant a tree in his name. Memorial service will be held at a later date.

Alfred ‘Al’ LOMBARDI

Alfred “Al” Lombardi, 96, of the Township of Washington, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Feb. 9, 2023.

Beloved husband of Millie Lombardi for 67 years, devoted father to Gary Lombardi, Glen Lombardi and Steven Lombardi. Cherished grandfather to Glen and his wife Amy, Steven, Jeffrey and great grandfather to Vincent and Valentina Lombardi.

Al was born on May 2, 1926 in New York, N.Y. and was a resident, since 1967, of Township of Washington, where he was an active parishioner of Our Lady of Good Counsel church and a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus council #5427.

Al enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening, and vintage cars, especially his 1965 Ford Mustang. One of his greatest joys was to spend time with family, friends and especially dining at restaurants throughout the Pascack Valley with his beloved wife, Millie.

Al was an exceptional mason and his work stands throughout Bergen County. Al was very dedicated to his service at the Knights of Columbus, his church and community. Al served as a Past Grand Knight and Past Faithful Navigator of the 4th degree Joseph F. Lamb assembly #0665 of the Knights of Columbus. He was instrumental in the planning and construction of the Knight of Columbus building. There are no words to express how he will be deeply missed by his family and friends. We will always love him and hold dear to our hearts the beautiful memories that he left behind.

You will never be forgotten Rest in peace.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

CROSSING GUARD P/T BORO OF EMERSON.

The Borough of Emerson, Bergen County, NJ has an opening for a P/T Crossing Guard. Experience preferred but will train. Background check required. Approximately 10 hours per week. Apply at Borough Hall, Police Department, 146 Linwood Avenue, Emerson. EOE.

Shop Manager position. Due to the seasonal nature of this position, the ideal candidate will have the ability to work a varying schedule.

Primary responsibility of this position is inventory management for landscape & holiday decorating materials.

Attention to detail, the ability to follow processes & procedures & organizational skills are critical qualities. Ability to operate small to mid-size trucks required, as is a drivers license. Additional responsibilities include facility maintenance, picking up materials & possibly additional responsibilities such as equipment maintenance as the position grows. Hours & requirements of this position will fluctuate throughout the year The busiest times will be during our holiday decorating season of Oct. thru Jan., when hours will be up to 40/week working Mon. thru Fri. From Feb. thru Sept., hours will vary from 8 to 24 hours per week. Call 844-642-9627 for more details.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

SERVICES - CLEANING

Cleaning business that values honesty and integrity with many years exp. Competitively priced with close attention to detail. Ref. Avail.

Satisfaction Guaranteed. Call or text Analu for free estimate. 973-474-7383

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D Harrington Park - Small apartment. 1 br. with garage. $1,200 per month. Call (201) 7393561 for more information.

Live-in housekeeper, private room with full bath, light housekeeping. Call (201) 960-7707.

Kitchen Cabinet installers helper. Must have basic knowledge of tools. Valid drivers license. Ken Bauer Kitchens, Hillsdale NJ (201)664-6881.

DPW LABORER, FULL TIME – BOROUGH OF WESTWOOD. The Borough of Westwood is accepting applications for a Full Time Laborer positions in the Department of Public Works. Responsibilities include but are not limited to manual labor; snow plowing; maintenance of roads, parks, grounds, sewers, landscaping, leaf/brush collection; road work; tree work; equipment operation in all weather conditions, and some mandatory overtime. Must be available to wok some Saturday’s. HS diploma or equivalent, valid

A Appaarrttmmeennt t f foor r R Reennt t Part Time Recreation Coordinator: The Borough of Emerson seeks a qualified P/T Recreation Coordinator.Supports all facets and functions of recreational programs hosted by the borough. 15–20 hours per week. Full job description and other pertinent information at emersonnj.org > about Emerson > Job Opportunities. EOE

Driver’s License required; must have CDL Class B License. Successful applicant must undergo background check and drug test prior to appointment. Employment applications are available on the Borough website www.westwoodnj.gov or can be picked up at Borough Hall, 101 Washington Avenue. Submit completed applications to Attention: Rick Woods, Superintendent or email rwoods@westwoodnj.gov no later than March 3, 2023. EOE

Want Business? Call (201) 664-2105