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Don’t be scammed. Woman’s club thanks BCPO
At its March meeting, the GFWC/NJSFWC Womanʼs Club of Westwood welcomed a guest speaker from the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office Financial Crimes Unit, who addressed members about the growing threat of financial scams. The speaker outlined the wide range of cases handled by the unit, including theft by deception, for-
gery, embezzlement, stock and insurance fraud, credit card fraud, home improvement fraud, elder fraud, and violations of professional licensing statutes. Several members engaged in the discussion by sharing personal stories of scams that had affected them, their families, or friends— highlighting how widespread and convincing these crimes can be.
One particularly concerning topic was the rise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) scams, which have reached alarming new levels. With just a few seconds of a personʼs voice recording, scammers can now use AI to replicate that voice almost perfectly—often convincingly enough to fool loved ones. This tactic is especially common in so-called “grandparent
scams.” To safeguard against such schemes, families are encouraged to establish a code word known only to them. If a suspicious call does not include the code word, hang up and contact your loved
FIRST CONGREGATIONAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
EMERSON
‘Jews in Sports,’ Beatles shabbats
Congregation Bʼnai Israel in Emerson invites the community to two themed Friday night Shabbat services designed to blend tradition, storytelling, and fun. On Friday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m., the synagogue brings back its popular “Jews in Sports” Shabbat, featuring music, storytelling, and a bit of ballpark flair. Cantor Lenny Mandel will share stories of notable Jewish athletes, recite a rendition of the classic poem “Casey at the Bat,” and lead a prayer to the tune of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” Attendees are encouraged to show team spirit by wearing jerseys or shirts from their favorite sports teams. Then on Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m., the congregation celebrates the return of its beloved “Beatles Shabbat”—where traditional Friday night prayers are
sung to the melodies of Lennon and McCartney, a concept developed by Cantor Mandel. Special guest Ken Dashow, Q104.3 radio personality and host of “Breakfast with the Beatles,” will again share insights about the legendary band. Dress for the era: Beatles T-shirts and Sixties-inspired attire are encouraged—Cantor Mandel will be in jeans. Both services are open to the public and offer a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Congregation Bʼnai Israel is a Conservative Egalitarian synagogue at 53 Palisade Ave. Visit bisrael.com or call 201-265-2272. 4Tim Wiles, former director of research at the Baseball Hall of Fame Library in Cooperstown, frequently dresses as Casey to recite “Casey at the Bat.” Photo: Jason Cutshaw
45th Annual Good Friday
Walk of Faith Friday, April 18, 2025 Noon to 3 P.M. THEME: CHRIST, OUR SAVIOR NOON- WESTWOOD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 12:35- GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1:30- ST. ANDREW ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 2:10- PARKSIDE COMMUNITY CHURCH 2:45- ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH (After the first stop all times are approximate) Offering to go to Westwood Area Clergy Council SPECIAL THANKS TO BECKER FUNERAL HOME FOR SPONSORING THIS AD.
one directly through a trusted method. For more information about the clubʼs programs and activities, call 201-916-1580 or visit westwoodwomansclub.org.
EASTER SERVICES The Wonder – The Promise – The Risen Christ April 17
Maundy Thursday Dinner Church
7:00 p.m.
April 18
Good Friday Taizé Worship
7:00 p.m.
April 20
Easter Sunday Early Morning Communion Service 6:30 a.m. In the Memorial Garden Worship for Easter, Sanctuary 10:00 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt, Front Lawn 11:00 a.m.
ALL are Welcome - We are an Open and Affirming Community
131 Pascack Road, Park Ridge, NJ • 201-391-5800 www.congregationalchurch.net
APRIL 14, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS
PASCACK VALLEY