Pascack Press 4.8.24

AREA

OFFICIALS STANDUP FOR MONEY ‘CLAWED BACK’

Fifth District Rep.

Josh Gottheimer touts reinvestment of local tax dollars

U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) hosted his 2024 Grant “Claw Back” Summit for Fifth District mayors and borough administrators to help municipalities and local officials draw more federal investment to their communities, first responders, local organizations, and residents.

New Jerseyʼs Fifth District is up more than 357% in grants, resources, and federal dollars “clawed back,” in Gottheimerʼs term, from Washington since he

See AREA on page 34

STATE’S TOP DECATHLETES STATE’S TOP DECATHLETES

Westwood Regional WACADECA makes history

WACADECA teammates Willow Foley, Amara Geipel, Alice Rappazzo, Daniel Shotkin, Aaron Zeiler, Adriana Duna, Bryce Hallgren, Maria Tsakova, Alexander Asfar. Not pictured: coach James Thomas. Courtesy WACADECA

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

IN A HISTORICVICTORY for Westwood Regional High School, its Academic Decathlon team, WACADECA, has for the first time in the schoolʼs history clinched the title of New Jersey State Champions. Itʼs school glory on par with the Cardinal football programʼs

dramatic 21-20 overtime win on Nov 27, 2023 in the NJSIAA Group 2 State Championship Game, also a glittering first for the district.

Following an outstanding performance, Westwoodʼs decathletes—experienced regional champs, led by coach James Thomas—trounced at the state finals held here on March 2, where they surpassed 15 other schools.

RICHLY INFORMED

WACADECAʼs next stop:the nationals.

Decathletes study a new theme each year, such as Russia, World War I, the 1960s, and New Alternatives in Energy. They explore seven subjects connected to that theme, from art and science to math and economics. The overall theme for the 2023–2024 Academic Decathlon is Technolo-

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PASCACK VALLEY

VALLEY VOLUNTEERS ‘TAKEOVER’ WFDU-FM

RetroRadio converts listeners to DJs: Westwood, Park Ridge, Washington Township at the mic

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The consensus from Pascack Valley listeners was unanimous: WFDU-FM (89.1 FM), based in Teaneck, plays a wide selection of oldies from the 50s through the 80s that cannot be found anywhere else on the radio dial.

OLOHAN

Moreover, they have the best, nicest and most informed DJs who go out of their way to play their requests, said several local listeners who spoke with Pascack Press

And, by the way, most of the stationʼs DJs are volunteers who spend hours each week putting together eclectic shows that highlight music and artists rarely, if ever, heard on the radio anymore.

WFDU-FM RetroRadio listeners from Park Ridge, Westwood, and Washington Township were at the stationʼs recent Meet

See WFDU on page 24

Birthday note touches chord

be encouraged, and, of course, lots of learning would take place— even though the students might not have realized it!

We still think of her fondly after all these years (almost 40!) and all the Moore family send her our very best wishes.

Frances and Patrick Moore Pascack Valley

River Vale Ramadan delivers

come their month long custom and for others to learn about and celebrate with their Muslim neighbors.

During Ramadan, Muslims around the world engage in fasting, prayer and acts of kindness. It is a time of self-reflection, spiritual

growth and strengthening of bonds. This year it spans from the evening of March 10 to the breaking of the fast on April 8.

Our community celebration included formal remarks and the musical talents of the Nasheed Nightingales. Customary foods were enjoyed: graciously donated by Adamʼs Bagels in River Vale and Naya Middle Eastern Counter and Grill in Montvale.

Children also enjoyed crafts, stickers, books donated about Ramadan and an opportunity to sit

and have Henna designs applied on their hands and arms. The evening ended when our town Crecent was lit at dusk.

The crescent will continue to be lit every dusk through the remainder of Ramadan as a reminder that our Muslim neighbors continue to be in observance of this prayerful time. This event is a welcome addition to our townʼs social and cultural affairs schedule as we appreciate the diversity that enriches our community and the warmth and inclusivity that defines River Vale. Thank you to everyone who contributed and those who attended. We look forward to celebrating again together next year.

Amy Salib and Rachel Galatt, Directors, Social & Cultural AffairsCommittee, Township of River Vale

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACKVALLEY

Gov. Phil Murphy signed a law on March 20 that requires the state Department of Community Affairs to determine affordable housing obligations for each municipality.

The adoption came over the strong reservations from Pascack Valley mayors—Republicans and Democrats—in a joint letter sent to Trenton less than a week before Murphy signed the fast-tracked legislation.

The bill, A4/S50, signed by Murphy, helps streamline the process for establishing municipal affordable obligations to meet their requirements under a state constitutional mandate to provide their “fair share” of homes and apartments that low and moderate income families can afford.

The state Senate passed the bill, 22–14, along party lines on March 18, and the state Assembly approved amendments added to its version since that chamber passed the bill, 51–28, in February.

In an effort to pause or revise

the fast-moving legislation, the 10 town Pascack Valley Mayors Association sent a letter to all state senators and Assembly members, calling for more than a dozen changes in the new law, which mostly went unheeded.

Over a year ago, the mayors also supported legislation that called for a three-year pause in the next round of affordable housing obligations, set to begin in July 2025. The proposal was introduced by Republican Sen. Holly Schepisi. The legislation did not advance out of committee.

The PVMA has represented mayors from 10 communities, including Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Old Tappan, Oradell, Park Ridge, River Vale, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake since 1966. The

organizationʼs president this year is Westwoodʼs Ray Arroyo; vice president is Emersonʼs Danielle DiPaola.

The new law abolishes the former Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) that was ruled “moribund” by the state Supreme Court in 2015, after 16 years of inaction, and ruled determining future obligations would be done by towns, superior courts, and affordable housing advocate Fair Share Housing Center.

The law creates a panel of three to seven court-appointed experts who will oversee challenges to newly proposed affordable housing numbers, and appropriates $16 million to DCA to help establish the statewide program.

In mid-March, Hillsdale Mayor Michael Sheinfield told Pascack Press that the pending affordable housing law “could be heavily impactful” on towns and “a rather daunting number” could be imposed in the near future.

“We could be with a gun to our head to come up with a number and just roll with it,” said the mayor after attending a meeting where the legislation was dis-

cussed.

The new law is based on a prior affordable housing legal decision called the Jacobson Decision made in 2018. Using the

lawʼs formula, the state community affairs department will determine affordable housing numbers for all eligible towns, and these

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Celebrate Israelʼs 76th Birthday at Temple Emanuel of the Pascack Valley in Woodcliff Lake. TEPV welcomes the worldfamous a capella group Six13 for its Yom Haʼatzmaut celebration for the whole family on May 5 at 4:30 p.m. An Israel-style dinner, singing, folk dancing, and more activities for all ages will follow the concert. Advance purchase of concert and dinner tickets is strongly recommended.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit tepv.org/israel2024

Bckintime... Bckintime...

National

Post 162, Sons mark

Vietnam War Vets Day

HILLSDALE

In a solemn gathering on Saturday, March 30, members of American Legion Post 162 and Sons Squadron convened at the Hillsdale Veterans Memorial to pay tribute to the veterans of the Vietnam War. Despite the clash with Good Friday, the significance of the day was not overlooked.

The event was a reflection of the National Vietnam War Veterans Day, established by the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017, signed into law by President Donald J. Trump. March 29 stands as a day dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of the 9 million individuals who served during that tumultuous period in American history

Commander Doug Frank, Chaplain Ray Matz, and Past Commander Zoltán Horváth led the proceedings, emphasizing the enduring impact of a war that concluded half a century ago. Recalling the historical timeline, they noted the pivotal moment in 1964

See POST on page 32

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS HILLSDALE

“

Kristin Beuscher is president of the Pascack Historical Society, 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge.

For more information call (201) 573-0307 or visit PascackHistoricalSociety.org

TWO 300-GALLONSTILLS, hundreds of barrels and bottles, and all the paraphernalia necessary to conduct a huge distillery, were uncovered last Friday in a raid on the former Overbrook Country Club on Westwood Avenue. A complete plant was in evidence, and while no mash or liquor was found, the elaborately equipped plant was in readiness to begin operations,” the Hillsdale Herald reported in April of 1926.

It was the biggest distillery that had ever been discovered in the vicinity, but by no means was it the only one. In those days, newspaper headlines would regularly report that another Pascack Valley barn had been raided and a bootlegger operation had been disbanded.

Those were the days of Prohibition, when the sale of alcohol was illegal across America. Of course, peopleʼs taste for drink, and their willingness to pay for it, persisted despite what the law said. Illicit distilleries of

all sizes were set up in the rural outskirts of Pascack Valley towns during the Roaring Twenties, using derelict barns and vacant farmhouses as cover.

Stories of bootleggers in the Pascack Valley are plentiful.

A crew shot up the house of Woodcliff Lake farmer Herman Tice in 1929, when they thought he ratted them out to the police. In

See DEN on page 26

Vietnam War Veterans Day poster.

The Overbrook Country Club, formerly the Garret Demarest House, as depicted in a postcard from the 1910s.

This photo, which depicts the dismantling of a bootlegging operation discovered at the former Overbrook Country Club, was featured in the Hillsdale Herald in April 1926.

Mayor Michael Ghassali on March 22 noted a number of road projects “that will affect all of our travels. I am sure there will be changes as we move forward. The borough website and my emails will keep you posted to the best that we can.” He said:

Closure:Park & Ride Montvale Service Area

Effective April 1 the Montvale Park and ride bus stop will be moving to Exit 14 NYS ThruwayEast Lot which is located at South side of Route 59 at NYS Thruway Exit 14.

Should you require additional assistance, please contact Coach USA at (866) 912-6224. Service hours of operation are Monday –Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Southbound Parkway ramp (off Grand Avenue)

next week or two, depending on submittal approvals.

This work will be done during overnight hours utilizing nightly lane closings on the local roads. Their intention is to install these same debris catches on the northern structures (Grand Avenue and Summit Avenue) in April.

This would be the only work taking place in Montvale for the time being until the southern structures are completed. The impact to the public would be minimal, as again this would take place at night and would only be utilizing single lane closings with local police.

The long-term work on Grand Avenue amd Summit Avenue, where the traffic would be impacted, is currently anticipated for some time in the summer (end of July best case, but more likely August).

soon as we get them.

Affordable Housing

Ghassali held forth on affordable housing, saying, “The affordable housing bill, now itʼs the law, aims to streamline the process that determines how municipalities fulfill a constitutional mandate to provide their “fair share” of homes that low- and moderate-income families can afford.

“Housing is considered affordable if prices, rents, and related expenses do not exceed 30% of the residentʼs gross income. Moderate affordable housing is affordable to residents making between 50% and 80% of their areaʼs median income, or between 50% and 30% for lowincome affordable housing, and less than 30% for very lowincome housing.

“Few facts as you will see my frustration with this process, because it does not count for straining the infrastructure, the schools, and forcing to change our townʼs character.

“In the last 10 years there were 140,000 certificates of occupancy (affordable housing) issued in New Jersey. Only 41,000 COs were issued in qualified urban aid municipalities (such as Jersey City, Hoboken). Towns like ours were forced to build the majority of the affordable housing units. Another fault with this system that we voiced but went nowhere; 90% of the affordable units were rental,

meaning if it were meant to help people to live the American Dream and own their own home, they will never be able to as they get stuck in the ʻpaying rent circle.ʼ

“Going forward as we deal with this law, we will get our new obligation to build number by Dec. 31, 2024, and we will need to decide to accept and file in February or lose our immunity. Weʼve hired a special counsel on affordable housing and working on our plan that is best for us and for our town and residents.”

This is the latest information I have. The contractor, Sanzari, is prepared to start work installing debris catch on the underside of the southern structures (Saddle River Road and Glen Road) in the CONTINUED

Grand Avenue will be paved this summer. Expect road closures. Will share the schedule as

“The new bill requires 84,690 units to be built, that is 15% higher than the last round, which was around 73,000 units requirement. We in Montvale have already built 365 affordable units and met our obligation with a surplus of about 40 units, that is 10% of our townʼs residential units.

Firehouse elevator project likely out to bid in early May

Borough administrator Robert G. Hermansen said March 19 that the town hopes to award a bid for adding an elevator to the firehouse by early June, if all goes as planned.

Borough Engineer David Atkinson said that the countyʼs Community Development Block Grant Program had reviewed the bid specs for a firehouse elevator project, and given the go-ahead to begin work with the architect and get out the bids.

Atkinson, of Neglia Engineering, said, “Weʼll work with the architect (Settembrino Architects) to get that to the next step.”

Hermansen said he hopes the firehouse bid specs get advertised by May 1, received back by midMay, and likely awarded in early June, if it meets the councilʼs approval.

Hermansen previously said that the borough was awarded a $199,000 Community Development Block Grant from its unfunded projects fund. The borough had originally requested $250,000 for the elevator project. He said the grant should help offset the majority of the elevator project cost.

Atkinson previously said they have a current estimated cost for future project bids but if bids come

in significantly over that, the council can reject the bids and re-bid the project if they wish to.

Hermansen said the elevator project could solve multiple problems, including making the second floor more accessible for older firefighters and ladiesʼauxiliary members not able to walk up stairs; and provide a polling place to take the place of a current school polling site which will enhance school security and childrenʼs safety.

Hermansen said soft costs on the project, including architectural and engineering fees are not covered under the $199,000 grant.

He said the project includes a new entryway or breezeway, noting the firehouse's front entrance will be

bumped out about 13 feet, with two doors on side, allowing visitors easy access to the elevator or stairs.

Residents told to contact Hermansen on flooding

In other grant news, Hermansen thanked the borough engineer, grant writer, mayor and council, and DPW superintendent for the nearly $1 million federal flood mitigation grant received recently from Congressman Josh Gottheimerʼs Office.

Emerson was notified by Fifth District Congressman Josh Gottheimer March 11 that it will receive a whopping $959,000 federal grant to install drainage infrastructure and realign stormwater system piping

near Dorchester Road, Vivian Avenue and side streets.

These streets house more than 50 residents and are located close to a high school, middle school, and several recreational fields.

Mayor Danielle DiPaola said when she posted news of the federal grantʼs award on Facebook, residents started noting flooding concerns affecting them. She invited residents with flooding or drainage complaints to reach out to Hermansen.

Hermansen said he had been driving around town with DPW Superintendent Perry Solimando recently to look at and check on areas that suffer flooding.

Michael Olohan

At Hillsdale Free Public Library

Fitness Fun with Lois

April 17 at 1 p.m.

Lois Kohan leads a light aerobic workout ending with stretching and relaxation. All levels of fitness. Register.

Mobility Club Class

April 11, 18 & 25 at 11 a.m.

Jon from A Club In Motion restores your body with authentic natural movements from an ancient art. Register.

Babysitting for Teens I and II

April 4 & 11 at 3:30 p.m.

Alexandra, Health Educator from the Northwest Bergen Regional Commision, on proper food and allergy safety, entertaining children by age and more. For 7th grade and up. Register

Wreath Making for Adults

April 8 at 7 p.m.

Welcome spring by creating a wreath using the beautiful col-

ors of this exciting season with Garden Arts for Adults. Registration opens two weeks before class is scheduled, and Hillsdale cardholders receive priority.

Friday Movie Matinee

April 12 at 2 p.m.

Details on the library program calendar Drop in.

Chair Yoga

Fridays at 11 a.m.

Join Cherlyn for a gentle morning stretch. Register for each individual session.

Visit the library’s website for the most up-to-date information: hfpl.org.

Funding provided by the Hillsdale Free Public Library Foundation through the gift of Gayle and Paul Gross.

April showers surprises aplenty at Westwood Public Library

• Partial Solar Eclipse Party for All Ages (Front Lawn), Monday, April 8, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Experience the wonders of a partial solar eclipse as the moon temporarily obscures view of the sun. Join us on the front lawn for a memorable afternoon, complete with special solar glasses for safe viewing and other celestial activities. Register

• Reading Buddies, Tuesdays, April 9, 16, 23 & 30, 4 to 4:45 p.m. Kids in grades K-5 can enhance their reading skills with the help of teen volunteers. This program fosters positive intergenerational engagement and promotes literacy development in a fun and supportive environment.

Register

• Swiftie Club (grades 5–12), Wednesday, April 10, 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. Join fellow Taylor Swift fans for an afternoon of music, karaoke, and games. Each month features a different album, offering a chance

to celebrate Swiftʼs music and connect with other enthusiasts. Light snacks provided. Register.

• Power Up with “Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder” release party (grade 2 and up), Thursday, April 11, 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Donʼt miss the excitement as we celebrate the release of Dav Pilkeyʼs latest graphic novel, “Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder.” Enjoy trivia, drawing sessions, and a Supa Epic Scavenger Hunt inspired by the beloved series. Light snacks provided.

Register

• National Poetry Month: PoeTree Writers (grades 2–5), Wednesday, April 17, 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Celebrate National Poetry Month and Earth Day by crafting nature-inspired poems to adorn our PoeTree. Children will have the opportunity to share their creations and contribute to a collective ode to the natural world. Light snacks provided. Register.

• Movie Matinee: “Priscilla,” Thursday, April 18, 1 p.m. Indulge in an afternoon of cinematic entertainment with a screening of Sofia Coppolaʼs “Priscilla.” Immerse yourself in the captivating storytelling and compelling performances of this acclaimed film. Space is limited, so be sure to register early.

Register

• Swiftie Club: “Tortured Poets Department” Listening Party (grades 5–12), Friday, April 19, 3:45 p.m. Gather with fellow Swifties for a listening party featuring Taylor Swiftʼs latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” Share your favorite tracks, participate in group activities, and enjoy light refreshments. Register

PASCACK VALLEY

• A Tribute to Paul Robeson with Sherma Andrews and Professor Mack Brandon Sunday, April 21, 3 p.m. Experience a moving tribute to the legendary Paul Robeson, a New Jersey native known for his extraordinary contributions to music, civil rights, and social activism. Join us for an unforgettable performance honoring his legacy, followed by a joyful community sing-along. Register

• Fresh Voices Book Group: “Couplets” by Maggie Milner, Tuesday, April 23, 7 p.m. Engage in lively discussion as we explore debut author Maggie Milnerʼs work, “Couplets.” Copies of the book will be available at the library, offering readers the chance

to delve into this compelling narrative and share their insights with fellow book enthusiasts. Register.

• Garden Club Presentation: Become a Pruning Pro with Chris, Thursday, April 25, 7 p.m. Learn expert pruning techniques from horticulturalist Chris as he shares valuable tips and insights for maintaining healthy, vibrant gardens. Whether youʼre a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this informative presentation promises to enhance your gardening skills. Register

• Hudson Valley Wood Turners Pen Making Program, Saturday, April 27, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Discover the art of woodturn-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Bergen Volunteers invites you

Applications Open for Bergen LEADS Class of 2025

Are you ready to challenge the status quo and ignite change in Bergen County? Bergen LEADS invites motivated individuals to apply for its Class of 2025. This unique program offers participants the opportunity to delve into the challenges and opportunities of living and working in Bergen County, fostering growth, and fostering a deeper sense of community. Visit bergenvolunteers.org or contact Rachel at rfeinmark@bergenvolunteers.org

Redefining Retirement Information Session: April 11

Looking to give back to your community in retirement but unsure where to start? Join us for our Redefining Retirement Information Session on April 11. Discover how you can utilize your skills and expertise to support local nonprofits and make a meaningful impact. Our liaison will guide you through the process, helping you find the perfect volunteer or board member opportunity. Donʼt miss this chance to redefine retirement and leave a legacy of

Bergen READS Book Drive:

As

Law and Public Safety Day: A Transformative Experience

Bergen LEADS recently experienced an enlightening Law and Public Safety Day, offering participants a firsthand look at the dedication and commitment of those working in law enforcement and public safety. From touring the Bergen County Jail to visiting the Office of Emergency Management headquarters, participants gained invaluable insights into disaster response and community safety.

Mentoring Matters: Shape a Brighter Tomorrow

Mentoring has the power to

transform lives, providing young people with the guidance and support they need to succeed. Bergen Volunteers is seeking mentors, particularly male mentors, to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable youth. Join our mentoring program today and become a driving force for change.

For more information on how you can get involved, reach out to Lisa at (201) 221-4706 or ltredici@bergenvolunteers.org.

CHEER & CHORE: Supporting the Elderly

Our CHEER and CHORE programs continue to make a difference in the lives of seniors and individuals with disabilities. With the help of dedicated volunteers, we provide companionship, assistance with daily tasks, and essential home repairs, ensuring that our community members can live independently with dignity and respect.

To learn more about becoming a CHEER or CHORE volunteer, please contact Michele at (201) 489-9456 or mogden@bergenvolunteers.org.

Library:

FROM PAGE 8

ing and create your own custom pen with guidance from the Hudson Valley Wood Turners. Choose from four available slots for personalized instruction, or simply observe the captivating process of pen making. Register

• Friends of the Library Giant Book Sale, Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kick off the month with a fantastic opportunity to stock up on books, DVDs, and more at unbeatable prices. With a wide selection of titles available, thereʼs something for everyone to enjoy. Donʼt miss this chance to sup-

WOODCLIFF LAKE

port the library while adding to your collection. Donations accepted Mondays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, visit Friends of the Westwood Library.

Adult Programs

• Virtual Book Study: “Poverty, by America,” April 10–May 29, 7:30 p.m. Join the Parkside Churchʼs virtual book study as they delve into “Poverty by America.” Copies of the book will be available for checkout at the library, allowing participants to engage in meaningful discussions from the comfort of their own homes. Register.

Library Recommends

• TV DVD: “Abbott Elementary” Season 2. Embark on a jour-

ney into the world of public education with “Abbott Elementary” Season 2. Follow a dedicated group of teachers as they navigate the challenges of teaching in a Philadelphia public school, striving to make a difference despite limited resources. Request on BCCLS.

On Display

Patricia C. Stella (1950–2023) Memorial Reception Tuesday, April 17, 7 p.m. Join us as we celebrate the life and artistic legacy of Patricia C. Stella, a beloved former Westwood Library employee. Patʼs passion for art and nature touched the lives of many, and we invite the community to honor her memory with light refreshments and fond reminiscences. RSVP for this special event.

Global Climate, Local Effects May 13

Slaman will delve into the profound impacts of climate change on the ecology of New Jersey, exploring how it is reshaping the flora and fauna of our state. With a keen focus on practical solutions, he will discuss what individuals and communities can do to mitigate these effects, emphasizing the crucial role of trees in this endeavor.

Participants will have the

opportunity to earn 1.5 Continuing Education Units (CEU) for attending this session.

Slaman brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, having been deeply involved in managing and caring for trees in New Jersey. As a founding member and arborist for the Demarest Nature Center, he has spearheaded initiatives to cultivate native species and adapt to the changing climate. In light of increasing threats

such as severe storms, flooding, extreme heat, burgeoning insect populations, and more, long-term planning must incorporate resilience measures. This lecture promises valuable insights for anyone concerned about the environment and eager to take action.

The event is Monday, May 13 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Tice Senior Center, Tice Mall, 411 Chestnut Ridge Road, Woodcliff Lake.

Refreshments will be provided, and admission is free. RSVP to secure your spot at wclnj.com/boards/tree or contact Kathleen Bagley at k29cb@aol.com or (201) 391-4720.

SLAMAN

SJRHS Spring Craft Fair returns April 21

Excitement is brewing in Montvale as the St. Joseph Regional High School Spring Craft Fair, presented by Marshmallow Events, makes its highly anticipated return. Set to take place on Sunday, April 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this beloved community event promises a day filled with family fun, delectable treats, and an abundance of unique shopping opportunities.

Organized by Marshmallow Events, renowned for curating engaging and vibrant gatherings,

this yearʼs craft fair is expected to be bigger and better than ever. With more than 125 local vendors showcasing their wares, attendees can expect to find a diverse array of handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and one-of-a-kind treasures to delight shoppers of all ages.

But itʼs not just about the shopping—this event offers something for everyone. Foodies will rejoice at the prospect of indulging in culinary delights from five mouthwatering food trucks. From

the tantalizing flavors of Chef J Latin Dragon to the savory offerings of Magic Mikeʼs Smoked Meats, attendees can embark on a culinary journey sure to satisfy every palate.

And letʼs not forget about dessert—The Ice Cream Lady, Who Cut the Cheese, and The Wandering Cup will be on hand to provide sweet treats and tasty

snacks throughout the day.

Admission to the St. Joseph Regional High School Spring Craft Fair is free, making it the perfect opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a day of eating, shopping, and entertainment.

With Motherʼs Day just around the corner, attendees will have the chance to browse a wide

selection of gifts, making it easy to find the perfect present for that special someone.

In addition to supporting local small businesses, attendees can feel good knowing that a portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit the St. Joseph Regional High School scholarship fund.

Celebrate Earth Month this April by keeping your once-treasures out of the landfills and making a little extra cash! Registration is open at tinyurl.com/westwoodgaragesale2024.

Based on previous town-wide garage sales organized by Celebrate Westwood, dozens of homes are projected to participate in the weekend-long event on Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Times may vary by location.

Proceeds collected through

registration for the Westwood-Wide Garage Sale by Celebrate Westwood, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that supports community events and programming, will be earmarked for an environmentally friendly project or activity in coordination with the Westwood Green Team and Westwood Environmental Advisory Committee.

Register your home as a participating location by April 15 to get on the map and the list, and to take advantage of the all event publicity.

Savvy shoppers can look for-

VOLUNTEERFIREMAN’S ASSOCIATIONSCHOLARSHIPS

The Park Ridge Volunteer Firemanʼs Association is again offering its Rocky Pilger Memorial Scholarship in memory of Chief Pilger and given to three current high school seniors who will be pursuing higher education in the fall.

The award is open to any Park Ridge resident graduating high school or in college and needing assistance, regardless of the school they attend.

If you attend Park Ridge High School, contact your guidance counselor. If you attend any other school, contact Mark “Cookey” Eisen at markeisen4@gmail.com for an application.

To be considered, all paper-

work must be submitted to the PRHS guidance office, or to Eisen, at markeisen4@gmail.com, no later than this April 12.

The Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department Association, or simply The Association, is composed of all active firefighters, officers, life members, and honorary members. The Association is committed to serving the community and ensuring the welfare of its members.

The Association is made up of many different committees; some focus on the serving the active side of the department while some focus on the community by funding school scholarships and sponsoring town events and athletic teams.

ward to finding such things as general household items and decor, furniture, holiday decor, teacher supplies, artwork, kitchen goods, women's bags, costume jewelry, shoes, clothes, books, toys, gadgets, hand tools, baby items, musical instruments, antiques, sporting equipment, art supplies, designer accessories, and much more!

Be sure to obey all traffic, parking, and property rules while perusing the posted sales. A full directory of participating addresses, sale highlights, and an interactive digital map will be posted at celebratewestwood.org

Direct any questions to celebratewestwood@gmail.com

PARK RIDGE

Fr. Dermot Roache on Divine Mercy at OLM

Saying “The family is the domestic Church, the foundation of society and heart of life,” Father Vincent DʼAgostino of Our Lady of Mercy Church urges, “In these days, when our families are challenged and even attacked, we need to find refuge in The Divine Mercy. More than ever our families need the Divine Mercy of Jesus Christ.”

Fr. DʼAgostino says, “Please join Fr. Dermot Roache, SMA and learn more about how you can help your family in a special way by consecrating your spouses, children, and generations through this great gift and devotion to The Divine Mercy ”

The event is at Our Lady of Mercy Church, April 8–10 at 7 p.m. Fr. DʼAgostino says, “In this remarkable tale of divine mercy, witness how Fr. Dermot Roacheʼs transformative encounter in South Africa led to the creation of a profound apostolate, the Family of Divine Mercy, dedicated to healing families. Join us for one night or all three. You will come to a deeper understanding of the mercy of God.”

PARK RIDGE

ROACHE

Skip Kelley Memorial Outing Sept. 12; scholarships open

The Skip Kelley Memorial Outing will be held on Thursday, Sept. 12 at Valley Brook Golf Course, with breakfast beginning at 7:30 a.m. and a shotgun start beginning at 8:30.

The cost will again be $720 per foursome and/or $180 per golfer.

T he Outing, renamed last year in honor of one of its cofounders who gave Westwood a lifetime of municipal service, will again be run using a Scramble and Shotgun format.

MONTVALE

WCGO Scholarship Applications Available to Westwood Resident High School Seniors

A lthough its legal name remains the Westwood Charity Golf Outing, the Outing has raised more than $125,000 for charities for the past 28 years.

During the first 10 years, proceeds went to local charities.

Then in 2007, the WCGO S cholarship Committee began giving its proceeds to the WCGO Scholarship Fund, offering scholarships to Westwood resident high

M ILITARYBRIDGE EVENING A PRIL 26

Join the NJSFWC Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club for an evening of military bridge, a lively variation of contract bridge with a rich history dating back to World War II.

The fun is at Montvale Senior Center, Memorial Drive, on Friday, April 26. The doors open at 6 p.m. and play starts at 7.

No prior bridge experience required — beginners welcome! Enjoy games, Tricky Tray raffles,

a 50/50 raffle, and refreshments while supporting local charities and scholarships. Tickets: $15 per person. Limited seating. RSVP by April 19.

Proceeds benefit local charities and scholarships. For reservations and inquiries, call Elaine Mooney at (201) 391-4947 or Elaine OʼBrien at (201) 573-9132. For ticket purchase: Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club, PO Box 3, Park Ridge, NJ 07656.

s chool seniors, thus assisting Westwoodʼs future leaders.

This year, the WCGO Schola rship Committee is offering three $2,000 scholarships to three Westwood resident senior students who are very talented, and the assistance for college would really help them and their families.

The scholarship-winning students may come from Westwood High School or one of the private high schools in the area to which Westwood residents attend. To

date, 36 recipients from six high schools h ave been awarded WCGO scholarships.

If you would like a scholarship application, you may find them in the clerkʼs office at the Westwood Municipal Center, in the Recreation Department at the Westwood Community Center, or on

the Borough of Westwood website.

You also may request a scholarship application at westwoodcgo@gmail.com, or ask your guidance counselor for a copy.

If you have any other questions, write to: WCGO Scholarship Committee, 37 Goodwin Terrace, Westwood, NJ 07675.

The deadline for scholarship applications to be received and reviewed is April 30, 2024.

KELLEY

Cardinal Youth Cheer flips for registration

Can you feel it? Excitement is in the air as Cardinal Youth C heerleading announces its eagerly awaited registration for aspiring young athletes from Westwood and Washington

Township. Catering to students entering grades 2–8 in September, the program is embracing a new online registration process via Sign-Up Genius.

Mark your calendars for the registration launch at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 6, running through

Friday, May 10, until midnight. Visit the programʼs website, card inalyouthcheerleading.weebly.com , t o access vital information including the code of conduct, r egistration fees, and the allimportant registration link.

To streamline the process, s pots have been allocated for each grade level: 20 spots for 2 nd-grade Mighty Mites, 30 s pots for 3rd- and 4th-grade Pee/Wees, and 35 spots each for 5th- and 6thgrade Juniors and 7th- and 8th-grade Seniors.

For online registrants, m ark your calendars for uniform fittings on May 15 for grades 2–4, and May

Senior Fellowship meets April 9

20 for grades 5–8, all happening at the Westwood Community Center from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Set your sights on the week of Aug. 12, when practices will

officially commence, preparing participants for an action-packed season ahead.

Use the provided QR code for easy access to the registration

link. For more information write westwoodyouthcheerleading@ y ahoo.com or call Judie Gargano at (201) 666-9637.

Fun events paint township author’s ‘Smudge’ book launch

Township of Washington native and Westwood Regional High School alumna Halle Luttrell aims at connections, smiles, and sharing a world of wonder with the release of her first childrenʼs book, “Smudge Learns to Paint!”

Scheduled to hit Amazonʼs catalog on April 5, Luttrellʼs book is a heartwarming tale aimed at children from pre-K to grade 4..

The book is penned and illustrated by Luttrell—a self described artist, young museum professional, and, as of April 5, an author.

She tells Pascack Press, “Itʼs a cute, humble paperback book that I wrote and illustrated with love and inspiration from my nieces and nephews, and my cat Smudge.”

FREE Estimates

— Mary Cerrati

The Westwood Senior Fellowship next meets Tuesday, April 9 at 11:30 a.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. Karen Hughes is guest speaker. New members are welcome. The fellowshipʼs June luncheon is Tuesday, June 11 at the community center. The luncheonʼs cost is $25 per person, due at or by the May 14 meeting. Interested? Call Rita at (201) 666-1754.

She said, “The main message in the story to young kids is that art can be a tool to express your emotions, and it can help you feel better when you feel too much. Itʼs important to me that this message comes across because art is what helped me get through so many tough times, including the death of my grandmother years ago: She was also an artist, art teacher and childrenʼs book author, so I hope this will make her proud.”

To celebrate the release of “Smudge Learns to Paint!”, Luttrell has organized a series of events in collaboration with local businesses. The festivities kick off with a book reading at the Market House bou-

tique in Westwood on April 13 at 1 p.m., followed by a casual book launch party at Westwoodʼs Five Dimes Brewery later that same day at 3.

On May 4, families are invited to join a Story Time & Painting Party at The Spotted Canvas in Maywood at 11 a.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase copies of the book at a discount, with each purchase including a free Smudge-themed sticker while supplies last.

She says of her book she also was inspired by graphic design, watercolors, and “using art to cele-

brate something. I experimented with different media and projects to enhance my graphic design portfolio, creating mock book covers. Iʼve always used art to heal my soul, but this was different; it was an opportunity.”

Luttrellʼs bio notes she specializes in oil painting and portraiture. Her work is strongly connected to her own experiences “as a woman and an artist, as well as personal connections” to people in her life.

Her bio explains that as an emerging museum professional, her career goals are to curate for an art museum and to teach studio art on a college level. She holds a BFA from The College of New Jersey and an MA from City College of New York in art history and museum studies.

We last reported on Luttrellʼs projects in pandemic-minded fall 2020, when as a TCNJ senior she organized a fun, free outdoor art show in the township in part to provide an outdoor option for folks in Bergen County to enjoy their surroundings as the weather cooled.

— John Snyder

HALLE LUTTRELL

K of C scholarship applications available

The Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 is pleased to announce the availability of scholarship applications for deserving students. The scholarship committee will award three scholarships from the James Picarella Memorial Trust Fund and one Mother Seton Scholarship, each valued at $1,000.

Eligible applicants must be Township residents graduating from high school this year. Additionally, non-residents who have a

RIVER VALE

father, brother, grandfather, or uncle as a member in good standing of Mother Seton Council #5427 for at least one year prior to the application date are eligible to apply.

The principal criteria for selecting the winners include:

• The scholarship must be applied toward tuition for fulltime enrollment at any accredited institution of higher education, including college, business, nursing, or technical school.

• The award will be disbursed in one payment to the student upon proof of enrollment.

• While academic achievement is important, we will also consider financial need, community involvement, and extracurricular activities.

•The application must be completed in full by the student. If a section does not apply, please indicate so. An incomplete application will result in disqualification. A high school transcript must

Vendors sought for farmers market

The Township of River Vale is hard at work planning for another spectacular season at the River Vale Farmers Market, opening May 16. We are securing all your favorite vendors; some new vendors from last year are excited

RIVER VALE

to sign up as regulars for this season.

We also have plenty of opportunity to continue bringing on new talented food artisans in diverse categories not yet represented. If you are a vendor and want to take

advantage of this great opportunity, write culturalaffairs2@riverv alenj.org We look forward to speaking with you!

Amy Salib and Rachel Galatt

Directors, Social & Cultural Affairs, Township of River Vale

Township 2024 Spring Fling 5K May 19

The Township is once again excited to host the River Vale Fitness with Friends/Run 4 The Love Spring Fling 5K Fun Run/Walk on Sunday, May 19 at 8:30 a.m. at the Mark Lane Complex.

This event—a 3.1 mile journey for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities—is a great way to spend the morning with your

family and friends. Although itʼs a fun run, there are prizes too: the top male, female, and child runners will receive $100 gift cards.

All proceeds from the race will be donated to the Helping Hand Food Pantry. Proceeds from the past three River Vale 5Ks have contributed more than $1,600 to

help residents of the Pascack Valley area who need food assistance.

All are welcome, even your four-legged friends (on leash)! Register via the town website, rivervalenj.org

For more information and to volunteer, email fitnesswithfriends2@gmail.com.

accompany the completed application.

Applications can be obtained from the Westwood High School and Immaculate Heart Academy Guidance Offices, the respective school websites, as well as from the Knights of Columbus Council.

Completed applications must be sealed in an envelope addressed to Mr. Paul Elterlein, Scholarship Chairman, Knights of Columbus, 79 Pascack Road, Twp. of Wash-

ington 07676, and postmarked no later than May 15, 2024. For inquiries, please contact the Council at 201-664-0422. The scholarship awards will be presented at the Awards Night Meeting on Tuesday, June 11.

Applications for membership in the Knights of Columbus are open to qualified individuals. For more information, call (201) 6640422 or visit kofc5427.com

Financially Focused Females Session 2 registration open

The Contemporariescommitteeof the Womanʼs Club of Westwood invitesmembers of the community to the second part of their educational series Financially Focused Females

will be led by two Westwood professionals: Certified Financial Planners Kelly Henning and Stephanie Spies of Modera Wealth.

In addition to an evening of

literacy in the community: “So often focusing on financial education gets pushed down the to-do list or can be overwhelming. By offering this series, we hope to help change that.”

This three-part series aims to arm women with the right information to make the best decisions about their financial well-being and is hosted by Modera Wealth throughout 2024.

“Investing 101” is the second installment in the series. The Club invites interested individuals to attendan evening of candid and engaging conversation about money and finance on Wednesday, May 1 at 7 p.m. at Modera Wealth, 56 Jefferson Ave.

The eveningʼs conversation

financial empowerment, attendees can expect to enjoy light refreshments of pizza, pasta, and refreshments as we talk portfolios.

Following a packed room for the first installment of the series, “How to Avoid Common Costly Financial Mistakes” held on Jan. 18, organizers Lizzie McPartland and Anna Lui say they look forward to another evening of learning.

McPartland tells Pascack Press sheʼs excited to create a platform to help increase financial

The January event, which showcased local professionals Erin Collins and Kelly Henning, saw23attendees: 11members and 12women from the community at large. The conversation focused on preparing for the upcoming tax season as well as smart financial planning.

Jennifer Sirchio, co-chair of The Contemporaries, added that she is delighted to run the series by featuring local experts and community members: “Our Modera Wealth hosts, Anna Lui

(also a Womanʼs Club member), Kelly Henning, and Stephanie Spies not only continue to be tremendous supporters of the Clubʼs mission, but also champions of local businesses in Westwood.”

The evening is free to members of the Womanʼs Club and $5 for non-members. Space is limited and registration through westwoodwomansclub.org is required. Admission is payable at the door via cash/exact change, check to “Womanʼs Club of Westwood”or Venmo.Proceeds from the evening will support the Womanʼs Club of Westwood scholarship fund.For anyone who would like to join the Womanʼs Club that evening, admission will be waived.

The series is made possible in part by the generous hosting provided by Modera Wealth, as well as the donation of the time and tal-

ents ofthe two featured professionals. A final session is planned for September.

Established in 2023, The Contemporaries are a committee under the Womanʼs Club of Westwood, founded in 1919. Their missionis to bring together a diverse group of women in an inclusive environment who, through fellowship, volunteerism, and leadership, engage in hyper-local philanthropy to serve the greater Westwood community.

One of the committeeʼs main goals is to host charitable, social, educational, and cultural events through collaborations with local businesses and other non-profits to better the greater Westwood community.

For more information vist w estwoodwomansclub.org a nd instagram.com/westwoodcontemporaries

Second state win

RedNose Wrestling School, founded in 2011 by Coach Mike Foca, has accumulated many prestigious accolades as a year- round wrestling school.

EMERSON

Congratulations to Dylan Reithmayr, 10, who won his second consecutive state championship on Sunday, March 10 at the CURE Insurance Arena in Trenton. Dylan wrestles for RedNose Wrestling School in Hackensack under head coach Mike Foca.

At right, Dylan at 9, when on March 27, 2023 we reported heʼd won the 10U state wrestling championship, 125-pound division at the USAW New Jersey Scholastic State Championships at CURE Insurance Arena.

— Via James Reithmayr

“Session 1” photoviaThe Contemporariescommittee of the Woman’s Club of Westwood.

Montvale:

FROM PAGE 5

Warehouse in Chestnut Village

Ghassali said, “Thank you to the many residents of Montvale who showed up on March 7 at the Village of Chestnut Ridge and testified with me on the warehouse proposal right on our border. Many residents who showed up donʼt even live close to the border, but they showed up and spoke in solidarity with those of us who live

MONTVALE

close the border.

“I thanked the mayor of Chestnut Ridge for his planning boardʼs professionalism and courtesy while listening to our residents speak and get their questions answered respectfully.

“The applicant agreed to a design with physical barriers to not allow right turn out toward Montvale and no left turn int to the property, and a lower height. We also learned that there will be a second warehouse to be built further north on Schoolhouse Road. Their next meeting is planned for May 2 at 8 p.m. in Chestnut Village.”

Seniors plan Canada, New England cruise

Constituent services throughout April

The Borough of Emerson has scheduled the following constituent services for the convenience of residents:

• Wednesday, April 17: The NJ Motor Vehicle Commissionʼs Mobile Unit will be in the Borough Hall parking lot from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to process driver licenses, non-driver ID cards, registrations, placards, and REAL IDs. Open to all New Jersey residents. Appointments: https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvcmobileunit

• Wednesday, April 24: The Bergen County Superintendent of Elections will demonstrate the new voting process on the new voting machines and answer votersʼquestions starting at 6 p.m. in the Emerson Senior Center. All Bergen County voters are welcome

• Saturday, April 27: From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Emerson Police Department accepts unused, unwanted, and expired medicine as part of the DEAʼs National Take Back Initiative. For

a list of what is accepted refer to the borough website.

• Wednesday, May 1: The Bergen County Clerkʼs satellite office accepts passport applications and swearing-in notaries, and provides additional services, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Emerson Senior Center. All Bergen County residents are welcome. Drop in.

For more information visit EmersonNJ.org or call the Emerson Borough Clerkʼs office at (201) 262-6086 ext. 1200.

The Montvale Seniors invite you to join their eight-day, sevennight Canada and New England Cruise, Oct. 20–27. Departing from the Senior Center to New York, additional charges apply for transportation to and from New York. The cruise includes stops in Newport, Rhode Island; Portland, Maine; Bar Harbor, Maine; St. John, New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia, before returning to New York. Final payment is due by May 22. Email montvalerose@yahoo.com for more information. All are welcome!

Save on tickets to New Hope Gala

PASCACK VALLEY

New Hope Pregnancy Resource Center volunteers are preparing for a festive gala to be held at Seasons Catering in the Township of Washington on Wednesday, Oct. 9 at 6:30 p.m. The annual fundraiser for the organization, which assists clients with housing, day care, education, and counseling, begins with a cocktail hour and includes music and dancing, a gourmet dinner, a raffle, tricky tray, and silent auction.

Flanking Gala Chair Kathy Turlick, center, of Park Ridge to the left are Anita Garzino, River Vale; Marilyn Laquidara, Park Ridge; and Christine Purcell, Oradell. At right are Kathy Powers, River Vale; Stella Martinez, Dumont; Jane Marshall, Harrington Park; Angela Poletto, Park Ridge; and Barbara Mezzina, New Milford.

For tickets, which are $125 if purchased before Sept. 10 and $150 thereafter, contact Kathy Turlick at (201) 519-5149. For more information visit newhopeprc.org and find New Hope on Instagram and Facebook.

New Hope Pregnancy Resource Center photo

Cruise Nova Scotia, Canada

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

The Knights of Columbus Council 5427 hosted its 13th Annual Winetasting event at Seasons on Feb. 4, attracting 220 attendees and raising a net profit of $38,700.

The event supported local families and charities, with proceeds benefiting the Reilley, Andriopolus, and Young families of the area, alongside various charitable causes.

The committee orchestrated an array of activities, including an Ad Journal, wine pull, silent auctions, tricky trays, a 50/50 raffle, and the popular heads or tails game.

Notable winners included the 50/50 recipient who claimed $1,500 and the heads or tails victor who walked away with $400.

Generous contributions from

individuals and local businesses, including enticing silent auction items like a private dinner with a renowned pizza chef and a cooking class at Cafe Anello, greatly contributed to the event's success.

Over the years, this fundraiser has grown significantly, with a total raised of $272,400 to date.

The dedicated families on the

committee, including the Brophys, Brunellis, Doughertys, and more, were instrumental in organizing this impactful event.

Founded in 1882 by Blessed Michael McGivney, the Knights of Columbus has evolved into a global charitable organization with 2 million members in over 16,000 local councils. The Mother

Seton Council, in particular, contributed $52,500 to charities and awarded $4,000 in scholarships in 2023.

Applications for membership are welcomed, with more information available on the council's website or by calling (201) 664-0422. Visit kofc5427.com for details.

Short ribs à la Giulio is a Giulio’s Restaurantdelightyoucanmaketoo

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 family 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!

Short Ribs à la Giulio

What youʼll need:

• 5 lbs Braised Ribs in Flour

• 5 Carrots

• 2 Ribs , Celery

• 1 Yellow onion chopped

• 1 Bottle Red Wine

What to do:

• Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Place in roasting pan. Sprinkle Rosemary, 1 bunch Thyme, 2 Bay Leaves (remove before serving).

• Cook for 3 hours covered.

• Serve over Gnocchi Pasta with Roasted Vegetables.

• Serves 8

•Buon Appetito!

Giulioʼs Restaurant is located at 154 Washington Street, Tappan N.Y. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Visit Giulioʼs website

For reservations, takeout, catering, and more, call (845) 359-3657

Short ribs à la Giulio

PASCACK VALLEY

NJChoral Society ‘coming home’ at gala April 14

Enjoy delicious food and engaging entertainment as the New Jersey Choral Society presents Coming Home: An NJCS Fundraising Gala on Sunday, April 14, at 5:30 p.m.

The society says, “Join us at the elegant Macalusoʼs, 55 4th Ave, Hawthorne, where you will experience the ambience of a wonderful dinner buffet with a wide variety of appetizers and main course offerings, a cash bar, and a Viennese dessert table.

“You and your guests will have multiple opportunities to bid on and win tricky tray baskets, a 50/50 raffle, silent auction items,

HILLSDALE

and a wine pull.

Silent auction items to entice you include African safari trips, family photo packages, Total Wine & More tasting parties, a pet portrait, a private Pilates/yoga/nutrition session, and so on.”

Tricky tray baskets will feature restaurant gift certificates, a wine club membership, massages, wellness certificates, tickets to Papermill Playhouse, a picnic basket complete with dinnerware and utensils, and many other exciting services.

Many NJCS singers will entertain you during this fun-filled evening. The NJCS Chanteurs, a

vocal ensemble, will sing “Our House” by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young as well as “A House Is Not a Home” by Burt Bacharach.

Cedar Jam, a local band comprised of some NJCS members, will sing the Simon & Garfunkel hit “Homeward Bound” and the rockinʼ“Wake Up, Little Susie” by the Everly Brothers.

Other NJCS members will sing such popular songs as John Denverʼs “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” a lively rendition of Sam Cookeʼs “Bring It on Home to Me,” “House of the Rising Sun” by the Animals, Lynyrd Skynyrdʼs raucous “Sweet Home Alabama,”

Shop HUMC’s Spring Fling April 27

Hillsdale United Methodist Church invites you to Spring Fling, set for Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

This event is the perfect opportunity to indulge in spring shopping just in time for Motherʼs Day, Teacher Appreciation Week, and Nurseʼs Week. Hosted by the United Methodist Women, who tirelessly work throughout the year to raise funds for missions around the world, Spring Fling promises a delightful array of gift ideas and local treasures.

Shopping at local vendor events not only provides a unique and diverse selection but also supports local merchants and small businesses, contributing to the vitality of the community

Look forward to exploring a variety of offerings including crafts, artisanal products, jewelry, skin care, and much more.

Hoagy Carmichaelʼs sultry “Georgia on My Mind,” and many others.

The cost of this Fundraising

Gala is $125 per ticket. Visit NJCS.org

For more information, call NJCS at (201) 273-9027.

Attendees can look forward to exploring a variety of offerings including crafts, artisanal products, jewelry, skin care, and much more. Admission to the Spring Fling is free, and all are welcome to join in the festivities. Itʼs an excellent opportunity to discover new favorites, support local businesses, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Local businesses and organizations interested in participating as vendors are encouraged to reach out to Lesa Brinker at umwrocks@gmail.com

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

PascackPressDean’sListandMoreforApril8,2024

Please join us in congratulating the following high-achieving young men and women whoʼve recently graduated area secondary schools and gone on to tackle even greater challenges…

More than 590 students were named to the deanʼs list at Bates College for fall 2023. This honor is earned by students with a 3.92 grade point average or higher. The following local students were

named to the deanʼs list: Cole De Magistris of Emerson, majoring in Economics and Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies; and Camillia Ghavami of Hillsdale, majoring in Psychology and Gender and Sexuality Studies .

Hannah Vogt of Westwood was recently named to the 2024 New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) winter all-academic team for womenʼs swimming and diving. The recognition honors sophomores, juniors, and seniors who

have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher. Vogt, a junior majoring in psychology, is a graduate of Westwood Regional High School.

The NESCAC, established in 1971, includes 11 highly selective colleges and universities located in the Northeast, and sponsors 27 conference championship sports.

Congratulations go to Jessica Wuttig of the Township of Washington, graduating with a degree in elementary education–special education and on the deanʼs list at Rowan University.

Many Ohio University students distinguished themselves with placement on the fall 2023 deanʼs list, including Aiden Grieco of Montvale and Amanda White of River Vale.

Michael Pressimone of Emerson was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nationʼs oldest and most selective all-disci-

pline collegiate honor society. Pressimone was initiated at The College of New Jersey. Only the top 10% of seniors and 7.5% of juniors are eligible for membership.

At Emerson Junior Senior High School, from which he graduated in 2021, Pressimone was active in the Key Club, DECA, concert band, and National Honors Society, and was captain of the football team.

The Alliance for Women in Media has announced the 2024 winners of its 49th annual Gracie Awards, and seven students at Hof-

stra Universityʼs Lawrence Herbert School of Communication are among the honorees. The honor, awarded annually by the Alliance for Women in Media, recognizes work by, for, or about women in television, radio, and online media on the national, local, and student levels. Each year over the last decade, multiple Herbert School students

have taken home Gracie Awards.

Among the Hofstra winners is Grace Madden, a member of Hofstraʼs Class of 2024 who is majoring in Video/TV and Business.

Madden is a 2020 graduate of Park Ridge High School.

Madden and co-producer Emma Pelletier, of Lynn, Mass. won for their work on Hofstra Today, which airs on the Hofstra Entertainment Access Television (HEAT) Network.

“We could not be more proud of our Gracie Award winners,” said broadcast veteran Mark Lukasiewicz, dean of the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication.

“And we are immensely grateful to the Alliance for Women in Media for encouraging, empowering, and lifting up new generations of women storytellers and journalists.”

The local and student winners of the 49th annual Gracie Awards will be celebrated in New York on June 18 at Cipriani 42nd Street.

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) is a charitable nonprofit that creates educational programs and scholarship initiatives to benefit the public and women in the media.

— Curated by John Snyder. Have cool alumni news?Write pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

Westwood Woman’s Club scholarship

The GFWC/NJSFWC Westwood Womanʼs Club is delighted to announce a scholarship opportunity for graduating high school students.

This scholarship is inclusive to all female seniors residing in Westwood and Washington Township, irrespective of their high school affiliation. The applicant must have plans to pursue further education or career training in the upcoming fall semester

To apply, interested students need to complete the application form and submit it to the Womanʼs Club of Westwood, 205 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675, Attention: Scholarship Committee. The deadline for submission is May 6.

Application forms can be obtained from high school guidance offices or by requesting an electronic copy via email at westwoodwomansclub@gmail.com.

DON’T MISS OUR UPPER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE! TUESDA Y, APRIL30TH, 2024

Learn about our curriculum, activities, and opportunities for girls in Grades 9-12, tour our campus with student ambassadors and meet with faculty and staff.

VOGT

PRESSIMONE

MADDEN AND PELLETIER

DE MAGISTRIS GHAVAMI

WESTWOOD

Fight:

FROM PAGE 1

gy and Humanity.

Coach Thomas told Pascack Press on April 2, “I have worked with many talented students over the years but there is something special about this group. The reason for their success is their teamwork and dedication. I canʼt wait to see what they do in Pittsburgh!”

Thomas, who teaches mathematics at the high school and is Math Honor Society advisor, said Academic Decathlon competes at three levels: regionals, states, and nationals. There are three competitions in a year The team is composed of 18 students: nine starters and nine alternates. Students compete according to their GPA with students with similar GPAs.

S Sc c h o o ol l

awards and boasted five of the top nine students in the region. Additionally, the team won the SuperQuiz, a team event.

On March 2, Westwood Regional High School hosted 16 schools for the state finals. Cardinals won 44 individual awards. MVP Aaron Zeiler became the first student in school history to win the B. Franklin Reinauer Memorial Award for being the highest scoring student in the state. The team won the state title for the first time in school history.

WACADECA continued to shine at the state level, where they demonstrated their intellectual supremacy once again. Amid stiff competition, the students locked down an astounding 44 individual awards.

al Competition in Pittsburgh, Pa., April 24–27.

On Jan. 27, Westwood won regionals for the second year in a row. The students won 60 individual

With their triumph at the state finals, and powered in part by such fundraising as a sticker sale—rounding out enthusiastic district support—the WACADECA team set its sights on the national stage: Theyʼll represent New Jersey at the United States Academic Decathlon Nation-

On March 2, Superintendent of Schools Jill Mortimer posted on the occasion of Westwoodʼs showing in SuperQuiz, “Coach James Thomas and our talented students made us proud once again! Many members of the WWRSD community were present to either assist with our hosting duties or to cheer the students on.”

Register: AHA Open House April 30

Take the path toward empowerment: Attend the April 30 Spring Open House at the Academy of the Holy Angels. Prospective ninth graders and their families will be welcomed to our beautiful, 25-acre campus at 315 Hillside Ave. from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Enjoy a personalized tour with a friendly, knowledgeable Angel Ambassador, who will answer all of your questions about life at Academy of the Holy Angels. Register at

https://holyangels.org/admissions/visitaha today!

As our guest, youʼll learn about AHAʼs award-winning, nationallyrecognized STREAM curriculum, which blends science, technology, engineering, math, religion, and art. Discover how Angels become leaders through AHA exclusives such as the Oxford Study Abroad Program, a bespoke course in critical thinking. Angels also explore their role in the global community

by attending life-changing programs, such as the UN Commission on the Status of Women. The School Sisters of Notre Dame, AHAʼs foundresses and sponsors, hold a seat on the UN, and invite Angels to enjoy sponsored activities.

Angels are encouraged to reach the fullness of their potential by trying new athletic and artistic endeavors, taking courses in unfamiliar subjects, and getting involved in new activities.

She said, “I saw Mr. Connelly, Mr. Garcia, Mrs. Peck, Mrs. Sigona, Mrs. Kemple, Mr. Tridgell, Dr. Thames, Mrs. Hanlon, Mrs. Farrell, Mrs. Vallorano, Mrs. Nagle, and Mr. Mortimer. We were in a threeway tie with Clifton and Hackensack. My heart is full once again.” WWRSD board president Jason Garcia of Westwood added, “I was a judge and proctor today, and I was highly impressed by the individual contestants and each team. I could not be more proud of our WWRSD team and student participants. Coach Jim Thomas has this WACADECA crew inspired and prepared. Thank you to coach and all the WACADECA members, families, and supporters.What a great day!”

United States Academic Decathlon says online, “Competing in the Academic Decathlon is not about demonstrating how good a student you already are. Itʼs about working on a team, mastering college-level material, and practicing skills, like public speaking, that might be wholly new to you.”

USAD adds, “Itʼs about the people youʼll meet along the way—the coaches who will mentor you, the competitors who will challenge you, and the teammates who will become your lifelong friends. No other activity will better prepare you for university.” For updates, photos, and more visit the team Facebook page /WACADECA.

Led by Coach James Thomas, the WACADECA team is blazing a new path. Boasting its first state title, the team now represents New Jersey at the United States Academic Decathlon National Competition in Pittsburgh, Pa., April 24–27. Courtesy WACADECA

HILLSDALE ACCESSFOR ALL ART SHOW

ENTRYDEADLINE APRIL 17

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

Hillsdale is gearing up for a celebration of creativity and inclusivity with the upcoming Fourth Annual Access for All Art Show, “Spring Is In the Air,” dedicated to

PASCACK VALLEY

showcasing the ranging talents of artists with disabilities.

Access For All is a mayoral advisory group—Hillsdale residents and representatives from the Borough Council and Departments, ensuring a diverse range of experiences and skills within the group— that reports to the Mayor and Borough Council on matters concerning

people with disabilities.

The event, in partnership with the Hillsdale Free Public Library, aims to provide a platform for artists to express themselves and share their unique perspectives through art.

• Application deadline: Artists interested in participating in the Access for All Art Show must submit their application forms by

Ballet Arts, Adelphi Orchestra present ‘The Sleeping Beauty’

In 1959, Disney delighted audiences with the release of “Sleeping Beauty,” a tale of a beautiful princess, her fairy godmother, and their struggle against an evil fairy hungry for revenge.

What might come as a surprise is that this enchanting story traces back to medieval times and is the foundation of one of the dance worldʼs oldest and most cherished ballets.

On Saturday, April 27, and Sunday, April 28, Ballet Arts and Adelphi Orchestra will uphold this timeless tradition with their presentation of “The Sleeping Beauty.” With orchestration arranged specifically for Adelphi Orchestra by John Longstaff, who has worked with ballet companies worldwide, including the Royal Ballet, this production is of pro-

fessional caliber right here in our community that you wonʼt want to miss.

Celebrating its 70th year, the Adelphi Orchestra is a profession-

al, non-profit orchestra performing symphonic, chamber, operatic, and dance concerts.

Kyunghun Kim, who has a distinguished career as artistic director of symphonies here and in South Korea, will conduct “The Sleeping Beauty” performance.

Ballet Arts, under the directorship of Jane Silane and Marilyn Westlake-Nichols, is one of New York and New Jerseyʼs premiere ballet schools and was recently awarded an endorsement from the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum.

Donʼt get caught sleeping through this event! The show runs April 27 and 28 at 2 p.m. at River Dell High School, 55 Pyle St., Oradell. Tickets: BalletArtsNJ.com

For more information call (201) 970-7690.

Wednesday, April 17. This is an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to showcase their artistic skills and have their work displayed in a public setting.• Artwork submission: Original artwork can be submitted at the HillsdaleFree Public Library on Thursday, April 18, or Friday, April 19, 4 to 6 p.m.. Artists are encouraged to bring their pieces to the library during these designated times to ensure inclusion in the show.

• Display and exhibition: Selected artwork will be featured at the Hillsdale Free Public Library throughout the month of May. This exhibition not only provides exposure for the artists but also offers the community a chance to appreciate and support their creative endeavors.

• Opening reception: The Access for All Art Show will kick off with an opening reception on Tuesday, May 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Hillsdale Free Public Library. This event will serve as a celebration of the artists and their contributions to the local arts scene.

Organizers told Pascack Press following the eventʼs record-setting 2023 outing, “Our show has grown each year, this year record in submissions and attendance. It was so wonderful to meet and congratulate all of the artists.”

Participants received a certificate and gift. Guests included Hillsdale movers, shakers, and art lovers; Ramsey mayor Michael Popolo, who also is presidentt of Ramsey is for Everyone (RIFE); and Paul Aronsohn, New Jerseyʼs statewide Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities and Their Families — a position to which he was appointed by Gov. Phil Murphy in April 2018.

Hillsdale Access for All advocates for individuals with disabilities in the Borough to help assist in gaining better access to services in the community.

Its goal is to enhance their quality of life so that they may participate, to the fullest extent possible, in everyday activities in the community.

It identifies programs and opportunities and develop and coordinate educational and social activities within the borough in partnership with the county and other organizations and municipalities.

In addition to advising the borough, it provides information about resources and organize events to promote inclusive activities within the community.

To get in touch with Access For All or to contribute, write accessforall@hillsdalenj.org or visit their Facebook page

HillsdaleNJAccessForAll

FROM PAGE 2

91% in 2023 to 85% in 2024. The NJ Administrative Code states that “a ratio of 85% or lower generally denotes noncompliance.”

Letters: Thanks over River Vale’s egg hunt

time a revaluation was done was way back in 2007 or almost 17 years ago! At that time in accordance with regulations all real estate was brought up to the required 100% valuation. Since then, real estate prices have skyrocketed (good news for owners) by over 30% so the original 2007 tax valuations are way out of date.

This has created a hodgepodge of inequitable tax valuations and tax bills throughout the Town, unfairly creating winners and losers contrary to the New Jersey state Constitution, which requires equal treatment for all.

Under the state Administrative Code, a county is required to step in to require a town to revalue whenever certain conditions exist, including the following, to protect all taxpayers:

•Town has not revalued in over 10 years (River Valeʼs last one was 17 years ago).

• Town reported an assessment to sales ratio (Directorʼs Ratio) less than 85%. The town tax assessor has confirmed River Valeʼs ratio has dropped from

• Inequitable tax treatment of new and older classes of construction is also a red flag. New construction in town is being assessed at circa 100% of sales value vs. a lesser ratio being applied to older construction, leading to similarly priced new and old construction being taxed at different rates.

At a recent town council meeting I understand that there was a discussion of the need to revalue but was not being proposed for until 2025–2026, which would push the earliest tax relief to taxpayers out to 2027? I find this unacceptable for town taxpayers who need fairer taxes now, and not tax winners and losers.

This is why I am also suggesting that taxpayers contact their own state senator here in town, Holly Schepisi, to ask her to reach out to the county tax office officials to see why the county has not ordered the town to revalue under the current conditions.

J.A.

Gould Jr. River Vale

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

To the editor:

O URTOWN came together on March 23 to keep the hunt on schedule in the Holdrum gym and the rain didnʼt stop our residents from coming out in full force. We had a full house for all three rounds of the egg hunt—no egg was left behind.

Afterward, kids especially enjoyed making maracas out of empty eggs, and covered themselves with spring temporary tattoos at our craft tables.

Ms. Bunny was quite busy in her photo booth area and made lots of new friends with her animated personality and mini-bunny dance parties. We also caught on camera a number of kids sprouting bunny ears. How curious!

Also noteworthy, our town returned a plethora of the eggs from the hunt and we are excited to be able to recycle them again for next year This was a delightful community event and everyone enjoyed themselves immensely

Thank you to everyone who helps support these events for the town. When we run them, we can feel how much they connect our community in a positive way

Amy Salib and Rachel Galatt, Directors, Social & Cultural AffairsCommittee, Township of River Vale

H.S. PERFORMERS SOUGHT FOR COMPETITION

Student musicians and singers across New Jersey are invited to use your talent to help shout down drugs in the state.

The Partnership for a DrugFree New Jersey is again striking a powerful chord with its 20th annual Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey competition. High school students with a passion for music are invited to compose an original piece centered around a crucial theme: substance use prevention.

The competition celebrates the diversity and potency of music, so all genres and voices are welcome. Entries must be submitted by Wednesday, April 10 to be eligible.

An esteemed panel of judges will select the finalists whose songs will be broadcast on 95.9 FM during the concert on Wednesday, May 8. The competition winners will be announced live on 95.9 FM at the concertʼs conclusion.

SJRHS’s ‘A Chorus Line’ May 10–12

Montvaleʼs St. Joseph Regional High Schoolʼs renowned performing arts program is proud to announce its production of “A Chorus Line.”

This iconic musical, winner of nine Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize, will showcase the extraordinary talents of students from St. Joe's and surrounding high schools.

“A Chorus Line” is a timeless classic that explores the lives and aspirations of Broadway dancers auditioning for a spot in a chorus line. With an unforgettable score and compelling storyline, this production promises to captivate

RIVER VALE

audiences with its energy and emotion.

Performances are May 10 (7 p.m.), May 11 (3 and 7 p.m.), and May 12 (2 p.m.) at Inserra Theater, St. Joseph Regional High School.

Tickets are $17 (rear auditori-

um) and $23. Group discounts are available for groups of 10 or more (contact asseltaj@sjrnj.org).

Senior citizens preview performance is May 8 at 3 p.m. (for $10).

Tickets can be purchased in advance, at https://sjr.booktix.net, and at the door half an hour before each show.

Note a new ticketing process for senior citizensʼpreview: Advance tickets available online or in the SJRHS lobby during school hours leading up to the show

For more information email SJRTheater@sjrnj.org or call (201) 391-7422

Seniors celebrate Kentucky Derby, hats

The River Vale Senior Friendship Club meets on Wednesday, April 17 at 12:30 p.m. The meeting theme is Kentucky Derby Day with horse races and best decorated hat prize. There is a fee of $3 for the events; desserts will be served as usual. New members are always wel-

come, membership fee is $15 for the year. For information call Angie at (201)-666-3888.

Upcoming trips include Atlantic Cityʼs Tropicana July 25, and High Point N.J. Sept. 24. For trip information call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.

“Itʼs truly inspiring to see the talents of these young artists shine,” said WRAT Creative Services Director Jimmy Steal “Teaming up with the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the New Jersey Broadcaster Association to highlight New Jerseyʼs gifted student musicians and their life-affirming messages is an honor.”

Visit shoutdowndrugs.com

Schools sup’t. is guest when seniors meet April 11

Law:

FROM PAGE 3

numbers will be published on the DCAʼs website by Dec. 1, 2024.

Officials said the DCA would start posting numbers starting in mid-October through early December 2024.

The law uses a formula in Judge Mary Jacobsonʼs decision, which weighs the amount of developable land, growth in numbers of households, and change in non-residential property values, among others, to determine how much affordable housing is needed in a specific area. Her original decision focused on Mercer Countyʼs West Windsor and Princeton.

Before appealing for changes in the new law, Sheinfield told Pascack Press why the mayors had so many reservations about affordable housing obligations.

“Each municipality in New Jersey faces its own unique challenges. Some have vast amounts of vacant land with the potential for development, while others are more mature, and are virtually fully developed. Ten years ago, municipalities entered Round 3 negotiations with Fair Share Housing to determine the Realistic Development Potential (RDP) for each community. The 10 towns that comprise the Pascack Valley fall into the latter category as more mature and developed communities,” Sheinfield said.

“Nonetheless, our predecessors negotiated in good faith to identify all realistic areas for potential residential development. Fair Share Housing dramatically reduced their initial development numbers because – like us – they realized such large numbers werenʼt realistic,” he said.

Sheinfield said the law “will create even larger affordable housing obligations than Round 3 (1999–2025) …Once again, we will be given initial numbers and then we will try to compromise on what is realistic for our towns. If Fair Share Housing thought there was more potential for affordable housing in our communities 10 years ago, they wouldnʼt have allowed us to settle on the numbers we did. Buildable land was scarce 10 years ago and is even scarcer now because over the last

decade we met our Round 3 obligations.”

The law sets deadlines: Dec. 1, 2024, State DCA publishes townsʼobligation numbers; Jan. 31, 2025, towns must adopt their obligations by binding resolution to be protected from developersʼ lawsuits; Feb. 28, 2025.

Challenges can be filed through the affordable housing dispute resolution program; April 1, A resolution to any dispute(s) must be finalized; June 30, Towns must approve Housing Element and Fair Share Plan to meet affordable obligations; Aug. 31, Interested parties can challenge the Fair Share Plan and Housing Element; Dec. 31, 2025, Towns must finish Fair Share Plan or explain why it wonʼt make changes; March 15, 2026, Towns must adopt changes to local ordinances.

The PVMAʼs March 14 letter emailed to all 120 state Assembly and Senate members requested 13 amendments and asked for the pending A4/S50 legislation to be tabled. The law was passed six days later. The mayors had called for these changes:

•The removal of the Urban Aid exemption so that all residents have equal opportunity to obtain affordable housing where they currently live, work, and have their family and friends support network;

•An accounting of how many units can realistically be achieved through inclusionary zoning, and how many units the market can bear, i.e. a market study;

•Clear methodology to determine the State, Zone and municipal obligations, with numbers cited in the bill;

• A straightforward, achievable bonus structure for existing affordable housing that includes credits for preserving environmentally-sensitive land, and counts existing affordable units based upon a municipalityʼs residentsʼactual income;

•Decisive immunity from challenge and developerʼs remedy unless the challenger can prove that the municipality is “determined to be constitutionally noncompliant” in accordance with Supreme Court standards;

•A vacant land adjustment that respects local zoning; and the fully developed nature of a com-

munity;

•Methodology to analyze infrastructure capabilities and allow a commensurate adjustment of the allocated unit obligation, or places responsibility to fund upgrades on the developers, not the taxpayers;

•Methodology to analyze existing municipal pervious coverage, the impact the obligated development would have on that coverage and its ability to absorb runoff and mitigate flooding, and an allowance for a reduction in obligation to avoid exacerbating existing flood conditions;

•Removal of the clause mandating realistic zoning for 25% of unmet need which, as currently written, imposes overdevelopment and increases carbon footprint;

•A return to the midway review as opposed to realistic

WESTWOOD

opportunity review that can be requested by anyone at any time, generating unreasonable unfunded legal costs for every municipality; Applicability of recently revised DEP flood and stormwater regulations, with additional protections for watershed and environmentally-sensitive land;

• A comprehensive analysis of the added costs the inclusionary 80/20 model puts upon municipal services, and the impact on residents who cannot afford market rate rents (which are becoming increasingly luxury to compensate for the affordable units), yet do not qualify for affordable housing; and

•A realistic timetable for implementing the provisions of the legislation.

The PVMA also had pressed state legislators to look at how the

affordable units are awarded. The new law does not address that concern.

The mayors said, “We also urge you to review the current ʻlottery systemʼthat rewards the lucky few with housing, rather than providing homes to those that truly need them, when and where they need them. Building tens of thousands of housing units across the state does not guarantee those units will end up in the hands of the homeless, the aged, the financially challenged, the handicapped, the underserved.”

They added, “Nor does it guarantee the dream of home ownership, since the vast majority of units are rental. The apportionment system needs an overhaul every bit as much as A4/S50.”

Woman’s Club members score on talent

On a recent March day, the Palisades District Achievement Day was abuzz with creativity and talent as women from various local clubs showcased their skills and achievements.

Among them were three remarkable women from GFWC/NJSFWC The Womanʼs Club of Westwood, whose entries garnered significant recognition:

Barbara Marino emerged as a standout, clinching an impressive four Gold Awards across diverse categories including Adult Coloring, Upcycle, Holiday Decoration, and Diamond Dot Plastic Canvas. Additionally, Marino secured a 1st Place Award for her excep-

tional Door Decoration entry. Nicole Dragonaʼs talents shone through as well, earning her a Gold Award for her intricate Paper Art – Flier entry. Meanwhile, Madeleine Ciocco showcased her culinary prowess, clinching Gold Awards for her delectable Baking entries in both Cookies and Fudge categories. Ciocco also claimed a 2nd Place Award for her Paper Art – Flier submission, adding to the club's impressive array of accolades.

These Gold Award winners are set to advance to the next stage, with their entries to be judged at the annual Convention in Atlantic City this May. The con-

vention serves as a platform for showcasing the exceptional talents of women from across the state, offering them the opportunity to compete on a broader stage.

Jacqueline Wisner, GFWC/NJSFWC State Chairman of the Environment Community Service Program, and Terry McElroy, Palisades District Chairman and member of Ridgefield Park Womanʼs Club, lauded the participants for their dedication and creativity, emphasizing the importance of such events in fostering community engagement and skill development. For membership information, call (201) 916-1580.

BUNNY BOUNTY

PARK RIDGE

More than 50 children and their adults were able to get up close and personal with the Easter Bunny at the Breakfast with the Bunny hosted by Park Ridge Elks Lodge 2234 and the Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club.

The Elks and the Womanʼs Club club appreciate all who attended or who donated items to make the event a success, saying, “Thanks to you, all funds

generated can be directed by the two organizations to help our neighbors in need.”

Pictured, front to back and left to right: Kathy Grubb, Dense Solda, Mr. Bunny, Tammy Levinson, Linda Ramagnano, Mark Morelli, Jessica Bruno, Karen Butler, Jennifer Snyder, Maxine Wolf, Mary Lynn Mazzarella, Shelly Thiele, Jan Mitchell, Mark “Cookey” Eisen, and Barbara McCaffrey.

—Via Kathy Grubb

Westwood Arbor Fest 2024: Help plant five tree species

Youʼre cordially invited to immerse yourself in the verdant embrace of Westwood Arbor Fest 2024, a celebration of community, conservation, and the beauty of nature.

Hosted by the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee, this month-long event promises a series of enriching activities aimed at fostering environmental stewardship and community engagement.

Event Details

• Saturday, April 6 at 9:30 a.m.: Gritman Pond. Theme: Accessibility and Health. Join us as we inaugurate a new walking path, promoting accessibility for all members of our community. Participate in a litter cleanup initiative and contribute to the wellbeing of our natural environment.

• Saturday, April 13 at 9:30 a.m.: Girl Scout Park, 3rd/4th Ave.

PASCACK VALLEY

Theme: Stormwater Management. Take part in our Adopt a Storm Drain program and play a vital role in managing stormwater runoff. Together,we can safeguard our local waterways and ecosystems.

• Saturday, April 20 at 8:30 a.m.: DPW Recycling Center. Theme: Environment. Learn about

sustainable practices and discover the importance of leaving fallen leaves within our ecosystem. Gain valuable insights into environmental conservation and make a positive impact on our planet.

• Wednesday, April 24 at 7 p.m.: Veterans Memorial Park. Theme: Efficiency and Historic Tree. Join us in honoring the iconic

Dementia, Alzheimer’s support group

Led by Debby Montone, RN, CDP, CDSGF, in partnership with the Greater New Jersey chapter of Alzheimerʼs Association, a support group for individuals affected by dementia and Alzheimerʼs offers solace and understanding. Meetings run the second Saturday of each month, 10:30 a.m., at the Westwood Public Library Conference Room, 94 Park Ave., Westwood. (July 13 and Aug. 10, sessions are held instead at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave.) Join us to share, support, and realize

Copper Beech tree, a symbol of Westwoodʼs rich heritage. Expert arborists will assess the health of this historic tree, ensuring its longevity for generations to come.

• Saturday, April 27 at 10 a.m.: Westwood Public Library. Theme: Education. Explore the art of woodturning and meet members of the Garden Club. Engage in hands-on learning experiences and deepen your understanding of nature and craftsmanship.

Additional information

Free tree seedlings will be distributed while supplies last, allowing you to bring a piece of Arbor Fest home with you.

Events will proceed rain or shine, so come prepared to embrace the elements and connect with nature. Canʼt join in person? Request a shade tree for your curb line and contribute to the greening of our community.

Tree Health Check-up

Recently, Westwoodʼs beloved Copper Beech tree underwent a comprehensive health assessment, overseen by licensed tree expert and arborist Liz Stewart, in collaboration with the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee, Westwood Heritage Society, and Westwood DPW. This proactive initiative underscores our commitment to preserving our natural treasures.

Why the check-up? According to Dan Zambrano, chair of the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee, it was to monitor and safeguard against emerging threats such as Beech Leaf Disease; to ensure careful pruning and tree care, minimizing the risk of disease transmission; to nominate the Copper Beech as a designated NJDEP Big and Heritage Tree, recognizing its historical and ecological significance; and to estimate the age of the tree and unveil this fascinating detail during our Arbor Fest celebrations on April 24.

Via Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee

WFDU:

& Greet event at FDU, Teaneck, that was part fundraiser and part social affair, with over 100 listeners showing up to meet about two dozen of the stationʼs popular DJs.

Park Ridgeʼs Thomas Burdick told us, “My favorite DJ at WFDU is Gale Martin and I also love Opie and the rest of the DJs are great.” Burdick, who was sitting with friends at a packed table, also said he made most of his requests with Gale on her overnight shows.

“I have been a guest DJ with her four times and I usually request a lot of Led Zeppelin, Rolling Stones and Beatles,” noted the Park Ridge resident.

Westwoodʼs Scott Shapper said he liked WFDU-FM due to its “great diversity in both the programming and various shows.” He said The Who has always been a favorite band and that theyʼre routinely played on the station.

Shapper said, “There is so much more you get that you get nowhere else. Who plays ʻSocietyʼs Childʼby Janis Ian or ʻOde To Billy Joeʼby Bobbi Gentry. Stuff like that is what makes WFDU stand out.”

Shapper then told us he had been a DJ at one point. “My memorable moments were when I had my own program there that streamed on HD2 every Tuesday night from 7 to 10 p.m. Getting calls from listeners when you feel few are listening and you get a call from a listener excited about the selections I chose to play that night.”

Shapper said he once requested, “Thanks For Christmas,” by XTC, which is “very obscure, nobody could find it to play it. Gotta get if off YouTube. Probably one of the best Christmas songs ever done.”

He told us he likes WFDU retro radio as itʼs “just a great little local station and Iʼve gotten to know a number of the people down there and all good people.”

Washington Townshipʼs Laura Lawler told us, “Todayʼs music I donʼt really like, but WFDU plays all the old music we love. The ʼ60s was my sisterʼs music, ʼ70s high school and ʼ80s college. It all brings back memories that you can sing along to,” she said, adding, “A wide enough variety that they always play something you loved once.”

She said WFDU features music not heard on commercial stations. “I have a lot of favorite artists, ones you donʼt normally hear any more, all the soul music, the Carpenters, Olivia NewtonJohn, Juice Newton, Kenny Rogers; I could go on and on.”

She noted, “My most memorable moment with WFDU was when I did something daring: I was a guest DJ with Kenny OʼBoyle. I had never done anything like it before. Kenny was so nice and helped me through the process. It was a great experience, and I would love to do it again with any of the other DJs.”

Lawler told us she has called and requested many songs on WFDU retro radio “for special occasions and just to hear something I havenʼt heard in a long time. Songs for anniversaries from

Rod Stewart, on sunny days the Beatles, for graduations ʻTurn, Turn, Turnʼby The Byrds. Itʼs really nice to hear your name with your request on the radio.”

She told us what WFDU means to her. “Itʼs all about memories and feeling like you are sharing them with others. I started working at home during covid and I felt a little lonely, then I started listening everyday to WFDU and I suddenly felt like I had co-workers again. WFDU makes you feel like we are all in this together. Also, my husband and I are both graduates of FDU in Teaneck and it is kind of cool to be reconnected with our college days.”

The station began broadcasting to the New York Metro area in August 1971 as a result of a concerted effort for its establishment by the administration of Fairleigh Dickinson University and enthusiastic FDU students. “Following negotiations with New York University and the Federal Communications Commission, an agreement was reached for the two universities to share the 89.1 dial position on the FM band.”

It adds that its broadcast signal has a 50-mile radius of its

transmitter, within the historic Armstrong Field Lab in Alpine. “The AFL is the site of the worldʼs first FM station, W2XMN, built by the creator of FM technology, Major Edwin Howard Armstrong. WFDU-FMʼs range covers the New York City metropolitan area including Long Island and Southern Connecticut. And, with an increase in antenna height and the power rise to 3000 kW, WFDUFM will have a potential reach to 8.2 million people.”

Harrington Park, Englewood Cliffs

Harrington Parkʼs Gary Reinfried told us, “I enjoy the interaction of the DJs and the diversity each one brings to their programs. Itʼs more about the ʻoldies genreʼ than any particular artist.”

He said one of his memorable moments was when his son was on WFDU. “I was a proud papa when my son Kyle did a one-hour guest DJ slot on Kenny OʼBoyleʼs show,” he said, adding he “enjoys listening to a local station with down-to-earth DJs.”

He said he rarely requests songs but his favorite request was probably “One Fine Morning” by Lighthouse.

Englewood Cliffs resident Jill Bloch told us she likes WFDUFM because, “They play oldies music that no one else plays and there are no commercials.” And for her, “itʼs great music to exercise to in the mornings.”

She said her favorite artists she hears regularly on WFDU are the Monkees, Paul Revere & The Raiders, and Hermanʼs Hermits.

Pascack Press’s Mike Olohan gets the story on WFDU “RetroRadio” at a meet and greet March 16. Peter Olohan photo.

She said, “My favorite DJs are Mayor Pete and Opie,” and noted that “the songs they play bring back memories of growing up.”

She said a favorite moment with WFDU was when Mayor Pete played Tommy Roeʼs “Sweet Pea” for her dog, Clementine, whose nickname is Sweet Pea. The event featured WFDUʼs retro radio hosts including Big Al, Bob Konig, Bob Morris, Brian Norton, Duff Sheffield, Gale Martin, Ian Ranzer, Jack Pignatello, Jacqui Phillips, Jay Wright, Judy Sheffield, Marc Brodsky, Mark Daniels, Mike B., Michael Phillips, Ryan Vincent, Opie, Steve Nicholas, and Mayor Pete.

Also on hand were WFDU specialty show hosts Ghosty, Ron Olesko, Del Gaudio, Robert Harrison, Freddy Hernandez, Bill Hill, and Elaine Rivers.

Left: Harrington Park's Gary Reinfried chats with DJ “Mayor Pete” at the inaugural WFDU-FM Meet & Greet, March 16 at FDU in Teaneck. Right: WFDU-FM DJ Gale Martin c atches up with Westwood fan Scott Shapper at the same event. P hotos: Mike Olohan.

Opie, via wfdu.fm.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Caffeine, sleep, and headaches — call me!

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Many people start their mornings with a cup of coffee. However, if you suffer from headaches, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, anxiety, or trouble with focus, drinking coffee, a stimulant, may work against you.

Many people say that every time they try to quit coffee they get headaches.These are called rebound headaches and can occur when medications or stimulants are overused or suddenly stopped.

For example, these rebound headaches may occur after someone abruptly stops taking medicine without weaning themselves off, and these headaches are also seen when people quit alcohol, drugs, or sugar.

In fact, if you get a rebound headache after quitting something, that means you should not be having it in the first place. If you suddenly quit eating apples, you would not get a headache. If you stopped consuming carrots, you would not get a headache. You will only get a headache if something is bad for you. If you are making an effort to eliminate coffee, sugar, or alcohol, make sure you drink water that equals half your body weight in ounces everyday to maximize your detoxification and reduce symptoms.

In regard to getting a good nightʼs sleep, it is important to not consume caffeine. Your sleep is controlled by your circadian

rhythm which is dictated by cortisol and melatonin. When you consume caffeine it messes up your normal circadian rhythms and therefore can interrupt sleep patterns. This causes people to have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. In addition, if you do fall asleep, consumption of coffee will prevent you from getting a deep, restful sleep.

When you do not get a restful sleep, you are not getting into the proper deep sleep pattern. When I have patients who do not get quality deep sleep, they report waking up feeling tired or fatigued. They usually do not understand why they are tired when they are sleeping the proper amount of hours.

The problem might not be the total number of hours of sleep they are getting, but that they are not getting into a real deep sleep. As a result, there is no time for the body to rejuvenate, reoxygenate, and re-energize. It is not about the quantity of sleep, it is about the quality of sleep.

When people have an overstimulated brain and have anxiety, they may be suffering from an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system. This will put someone in the fight-or-flight mode where they might get anxiety, as well as an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, or even breathing difficulties.

You do not need coffee, tea, soda, juice, or energy drinks to boost your energy. Those are all stimulants which can lead to anxiety, fatigue, and difficulty with sleeping and focus.

All the energy is within you. All you have to do is take care of

Advertiser Content

your body by creating good habits and you will unleash your bodyʼs potential to function better, feel better, and live better. If you are interested in learning more about reducing stress and anxiety, while increasing energy and focus, call (646) 221-6738 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to sign up for a $21 qEEG (normally $500) which is a brain mapping test to discover why you may have low energy, stress or anxiety.

It is always better to find out the root cause of the problem rather than treating the symptoms. The reason we are doing this for

such an amazing price is that this is more of a "get acquainted" visit to see if you would be a good fit for the practice. For more information about functional neurology and services, visit our website www.kaplandc.com. Follow my weekly articles for updates on upcoming lectures and follow our Instagram page @kaplanbrainbody or Facebook page Kaplan Brain and Body for lots of valuable health tips.

Listen to my radio shows every Saturday at 8 a.m. on 970 AM and at 2 p.m. on 710 AM.

Lastly, I will be running a live Boost Your Brain Power Seminar Series that begins April 30 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, insomnia and chronic fatigue.

Each seminar, which covers different topics such as mastering nutrition, natural reducing inflammation, learning functional brain exercises, and the Boost Your Brain Power Bootcamp, is $200, but if you call or text (646) 2216738 before April 29, you can go to all the live events, or participate on Zoom, or you can even get all the recordings for a total of $97 (only $24 a module).

Itʼs a no brainer! Hope to see you there.

Call to help power beekeeping in Emerson

The Borough of Emerson is calling on all those interested in beekeeping to reach out.

The borough writes, “Always looking to make Emerson more sustainable, the Emerson Environmental Commission is considering the idea of having beehives in a tobe-determined borough location,

WESTWOOD

and would like to gauge interest from our community members to possibly put together a beekeeping team.” For more information, or to join the project as a beekeeper or assisting in other ways, contact the clerkʼs office at (201) 262-6086 ext. 1200 or clerk@emersonnj.org by Monday, April 22.

WW Friends movie trivia night April 19

Want to enjoy a fabulous funfilled evening with family, friends and neighbors showing your knowledge of movies and stars of the silver screen past and present?

The Friends of the Westwood Library are hosting “Movie Trivia Night” with master entertainer Joe Trivia who will challenge you with clues and questions to answer.

There will be food from Graze Craze, wine, beer, soft drinks and a delicious dessert from Le Carre Café and Patis-

serie. We will also conduct a silent auction featuring wonderful items for children and adults provided by local businesses and gift cards generously donated by restaurants and supermarkets.

It all happens on Friday, April 19 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the West-

wood Public Library, 49 Park Ave.

Tickets are $40 in advance when you book at westwoodpubliclibrary.org/friends-trivia-night.html or you can purchase tickets at the Library Space is limited so get your tickets soon for this very special evening. Adults over 21 are welcome.

Ticket sales from this event support the Friendsʼ good works at the Library such as early childhood literacy, summer reading, ESL tutoring and adult and childrenʼs programs.

Den:

FROM PAGE 4

1930, prosecutors dumped 37,000 gallons of mash liquor into the Pascack Brook when they raided a huge distillery in a barn on Grand Avenue in Park Ridge. In 1931, police broke up a distillery that was sharing a barn with a herd of cows on Rivervale Road in River Vale. That operation had enough equipment to put out 60 barrels a day. Tony DʼAgostino, one of northern New Jerseyʼs foremost rum barons, ran an operation from an old barn on Chestnut Ridge Road in Montvale.

There are enough accounts of Pascack Valley bootlegging and speakeasies to fill a book, and certainly there are more we do not know about. The most successful operations flew under the radar and were never discovered.

When police raided the former Overbrook Country Club in April of 1926, they discovered a massive distillery just about to begin operation. It was a prime location for bootlegging, located on the outskirts of town in a house that had been vacant for several years. It was an unfortunate ending for a nearly 150-year-old home that had once been a focal point of the community.

The Overbrook Country Club was on the Pascack Brook where

Westwood Avenue in Westwood meets Demarest Avenue in Hillsdale. The historical roots of this property ran deep.

In the 1780s Garret Demarest established a mill here and built a small bridge over the Pascack Brook, thus bringing about the regionʼs colloquial name, “Overbrook.”

In his lifetime Demarest expanded his business to include both a saw mill and grist mill (where area residents would bring their grain to have it ground into flour), as well as a general store. With his bridge being the only spot to cross the Pascack Brook for miles, Demarest was well situated and did a good business.

The old mill was in ruins by

the start of the 20th century, but the Demarest homestead, which stood southwest of the mill, in later years was enlarged and remodeled in a Victorian style. In 1915 it became the clubhouse of the newly established Overbrook Country Club.

Although the country club is long gone from the landscape, a century ago it was a focal point of social life in the area. With dues set at 50 cents a month, the club had plenty to offer those who enjoyed being active. There was swimming, boating, a bowling alley, a baseball team, tennis matches, track meets, pageants, a dance hall, skeet shooting, and more. Public celebrations attracted thousands of people at a time.

A series of setbacks saw business dwindle before the Overbrook Country Club closed entirely. By 1926, the old Demarest house, the former clubhouse, was sitting vacant. Then came the bootleggers.

At the back of the large, rambling structure, detectives found

two 150-gallon stills, two complete steam plants, and some 200 mash barrels. The stills were elaborate contraptions reaching into the second story of the building. Holes had been cut in the ceiling to accommodate them. In the basement, cartons of pint bottles were stacked against the walls.

County police dismantled all of the equipment and took it back to Hackensack. The bootleggers, perhaps tipped off to the impending raid, had fled.

“The raid is believed to be the result of the known presence in this vicinity of several reputed bootleggers,” the Hillsdale Herald reported. “The Prosecutorsʼ men, after a few days of watching, decided that operations were about to begin in this vicinity, and by process of elimination picked out the Overbrook house.”

In 1931, the house, still deserted, was burned down in an act of arson. There was no connection between the arsonists and the bootleggers.

Spring field hockey clinic sign-ups

River Vale Township and Fitness With Friends have announced an exciting opportunity for young athletes in grades K–8 with the launch of a four-week Spring Field Hockey Clinic.

Geared toward girls with a passion for sports, this clinic aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of field hockey while fostering a spirit of camaraderie and fun.

Running weekly May 4–June 1, the clinic promises a dynamic curriculum blending coach-led instruction, live games, and engaging activities. Participants will delve into the essential skills of field hockey, including stick handling basics, dribbling techniques, passing strategies, and the art of shooting.

Taking place at Mark Lane Field Complex, equipped with a state-of-the-art turf field, the clinic offers a conducive environment for skill development and friendly competition. The sessions will run from noon to 1 p.m. One of the primary objectives of the clinic is to ensure

that participants not only learn but also enjoy themselves throughout the program. Structured activities, interactive games, and lively scrimmages are all integral components designed to make each session both educational and entertaining.

The cost of enrollment for the clinic is $49, making it an accessible option for families seeking to introduce their daughters to the sport of field hockey.

Organizers emphasize the importance of safety equipment, urging all athletes to come prepared with shin guards, turf shoes or sneakers, and mouth guards. Participants are also encouraged to bring water and label their belongings with their names for easy identification.

For those in need of equipment, a limited number of sticks will be available to borrow on a first-come, first-serve basis. A fully refundable deposit of $20 will be required for stick rentals, ensuring that every participant has access to the necessary gear. For more information visit rivervalenj.org

RETIREMENT PLANS CAN BE SIMPLE

ERIC KOHLMEIER

If you own a small business (or are selfemployed), there are many retirement plan alternatives available to help you and your employees plan your financial future. One popular option for organizations such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, and nonprofit organizations to consider is the SIMPLE (Savings Incentive Match

Plan for Employees) Individual Retirement Account (IRA).

Unlike some retirement plans, there are specific criteria a business must meet to participate in a SIMPLE IRA plan. Here are the answers to commonly asked questions about this type of retirement plan:

Can any business establish a SIMPLE IRA plan?

Self-employed individuals and employers with fewer than 100 employees may adopt a SIMPLE plan. However, the business must not maintain any other employer-sponsored retirement plan where contri-

butions are made or accrued during the calendar year in which the SIMPLE plan is effective. (This does not apply to plans that cover only union employees who are excluded from the SIMPLE plan.)

What is the deadline for establishing such a plan in order for it to qualify for the 2019 tax year?

The IRS deadline for establishing SIMPLE IRA plans for the current year is Oct. 1. Afterward, plans can only be established for the next tax year. An exception to Oct. 1 exists if the business is a newly established company and has never

sponsored a SIMPLE IRA plan. Which employees are eligible to participate in this type of plan?

An eligible employee is one who has received at least $5,000 in compensation from the employer during any two prior calendar years (does not need to be consecutive years) and who is reasonably expected to receive at least $5,000 compensation during the current year.

In the planʼs initial agreement, the employer is able to reduce the amount of compensation and the number of years required. However, there is no required participation for this plan – eligible employees can choose whether or not they want to participate and contribute.

How much can employees contribute to the plan through salary deferral?

The maximum salary deferral limit to a SIMPLE IRA plan for 2019 cannot exceed $13,000. If an employee is age 50 or older before Dec. 31, then an additional catch-up contribution of $3,000 is permitted.

What are the maximum employer contribution limits for a SIMPLE IRA?

Each year the employer must decide to do either a matching contribution (the lesser of the employeeʼs salary deferral or 3% of the employeeʼs compensation) or non-matching contribution of 2% of an employeeʼs compensation (limited to $280,000 for 2019).

All participants in the plan must be notified of the employerʼs decision.

When must contributions be deposited?

Employee deferrals should be deposited as soon as administratively feasible, but no later than 30 days following the last day of the month in which the amounts would otherwise have been payable to the employee.

These rules also apply to selfemployed individuals. The employer contributions deadline is the due date of the employerʼs tax return, including extensions.

Can there be a vesting scheduled with a SIMPLE IRA?

There is no vesting schedule with this type of plan – both employer and employee are immediately 100% vested.

How are withdrawals from SIMPLE IRAs taxed?

Withdrawals from this type of account are taxed as ordinary income. However, if a participant is younger than age 59? and makes a

withdrawal within the first two years of plan participation, he or she will owe a 25% IRS penalty and ordinary income taxes on the amount withdrawn.

After the initial two years of plan participation, the 25% IRS penalty is reduced to 10% for pre 59? withdrawals. Exceptions to the 10% penalty on traditional IRAs are also exceptions to the 25% penalty for SIMPLE IRAs. Direct transfers to another SIMPLE IRA will not be subject to this penalty. Can the assets in a SIMPLE IRA be rolled over?

Participants are able to roll over funds from one SIMPLE plan to another at any time. After two years of participation, employees may roll assets to a traditional or SEP IRA without tax penalties.

As with any investment alternative, you should check with your Financial Advisor to evaluate the best option for your financial situation.

Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice. Be sure to consult with your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax or legal consequences. Please keep in mind that transferring or rolling over assets to an IRA is just one of multiple options for your retirement plan. Each option has advantages and disadvantages, including investment options and fees and expenses, which should be understood and carefully considered.

Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice. Be sure to consult with your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax or legal consequences.

Investments in securities and insurance products are NOT

BCP’s ‘Curious Incident’ off the leash April 20–May 11

Bergen County Players is set to captivate audiences with their production of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” a Tony Award-winning play, running from April 20 to May 11 at Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell.

This theatrical gem, adapted by Simon Stephens from Mark Haddonʼs Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, promises to be a riveting experience under the direction of the talented Alyson Cohn.

The narrative centers around the enigmatic Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old with an extraordinary mind but who struggles to navigate the complexities of everyday life due to being on the autism spectrum. When heʼs falsely accused of murdering a neighborʼs dog, Christopher embarks on a journey to uncover the truth, unraveling a series of startling discoveries that reshape his understanding of the world around him.

In a heartfelt tribute to National Autism Acceptance Month, this production delves deep into themes of family dynamics, the weight of keeping secrets, and the profound impact of embracing differences. Itʼs a poignant exploration of empathy, forgiveness, and the universal quest for acceptance.

The play has received wide-

spread acclaim since its debut, earning five Tony Awards, six Drama Desk Awards, and five Outer Critics Circle Awards, including Best Play for all three. Originating at Londonʼs Royal National Theatre in 2012 before captivating audiences on Broadway and around the globe, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” continues to resonate with its powerful storytelling and thought-provoking themes.

Helming this production is Alyson Cohn, a seasoned director and BCP Life Member, whose

13th Annual Rec Car Show in gear for May 4

The 2024 Recreation Committee Car Show is set for Saturday, May 4 with a rain date of Saturday, May 11.

The show takes place in the Park Ridge Town Pool parking lot, 123 Colony Ave., from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spectators free; vendor spaces available from $25. Food and soft drinks are for sale

For more information write parkridge.carshow@gmail.com and visit ParkRidgeBoro.com

The 13th Annual Park Ridge Recreation Committee Car Show is on the way Organizers say, “Please,no bicycles,scooters,or hover boards in the car show area.Cars must be parked by noon for judging.” We’ll see you there!

Bergen County Players is set to captivate audiences with their production of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” a Tony Award-winning play, running from April 20 to May 11 at Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell.

visionary leadership promises to bring Christopherʼs world to life on stage with authenticity and sensitivity.

The cast is led by the talented Tom Kiely, known for his dynamic performances, who embodies the role of Christopher with depth and nuance.

Joining him are a stellar ensemble of Pascack Valley and Northern Valley area actors, including Ian Kenny, Leslie Darcy, Allyson Stevenson, and more, each contributing unique talents to enrich the tapestry of characters in Christopherʼs journey.

Notably, making his stage debut at BCP is Buddy Lupfer, a charming 2-year-old Shorkie puppy that adds an extra layer of adorableness to the production.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated production team ensures every aspect of the show is finely tuned to perfection. From lighting and sound design to set construction and costume coordination, every detail is meticulously crafted to transport audiences into Christopherʼs world.

Tickets can be purchased atbcplayers.org, by calling (201) 261-

4200 or by visiting the box office at 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell during regular box office hours. Visa, Master Card, and American Express are accepted. Those interested in Group Sales or benefit theater parties can call (201) 261-4200 (option #6).

For more information and ticket purchases, visit bcplayers.org

For the latest resources on early identification and support services for autism, visit cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html

Pascack Hockey plays it cool

Pascack Middle SchoolHockey on Monday, March 11, won the Montclair State University Ice Arena Middle School League 2023–2024 Championship.

PASCACKVALLEY

Congratulations to Pascack Middle School Hockey, which on Monday, March 11, won the Montclair State University Ice Arena Middle School League 2023–2024 Championship, beating PCTI Middle School, 5-3, at Montclair State Ice Arena.

Pascack Hockey serves as the feeder program for players bound for Pascack Valley, Pascack Hills and Park Ridge high schools.

Chad Wheeler has been the head coach of this team for the last three seasons. Andrew Schwartz has been the assistant coach. This year, due to the large roster, the

Pascack team was split into two teams.

The championship team roster included, left to right, back to front, Coach Wheeler, Barron Dworzanski, Cody Menge, Gavin Franklin, Harrison Sugalski, Ryan Sato, Brody Cunningham, Ben Mattessich, Novak Wilder, Coach Schwar tz, Lucas Schwar tz, Mar ty Tarabocchia, Nick Boretti, Anthony Bucco, Tyler Rothschild, Cole Fazio, Patrick Smith, Liam De La Rosa, Elliot LoPriore, and Grayson Wheeler.

Not pictured: Salvatore Gagliano, Sam DiMaulo, and Austin Iula.

Coach Brad Holmberg will head up the team for the 2024–2025 season.

New Jersey waterways will be freshly stocked with more than 180,000 rainbow trout, as well as larger broodstock, for anglers eagerly awaiting the beginning of spring trout season on Saturday, April 6.

Anglers of all ages are expected to head to their favorite fishing spots on opening day, which kicks off at 8 a.m. Trout season in New Jersey, bolstered by the efforts of staff at the stateʼs Pequest Trout Hatchery, provides

an excellent opportunity to spend quality time outdoors and enjoy some of the best recreational fishing in the country.

Anyone age 16 or older must obtain a New Jersey fishing license and trout stamp to fish for trout. Anglers may purchase these on Fish & Wildlifeʼs website or through a license agent.

By the end of the spring stocking season, more than 570,000 Rainbow Trout will be stocked in waterbodies across the

state, with most trout averaging 10.5 inches in length and weighing about a half-pound each.

In addition, approximately 6,000 broodstock—large, mature trout ranging in size from 14 inches to 26 inches and weighing up to seven pounds—will be stocked this spring. These trophy-size fish will be stocked in waters across the state suitable for fish their size.

Fish & Wildlife also stocks higher numbers of broodstock in select trout-stocked ponds and

Northwood Golf Club invites new members

Northwood Golf Club, established alongside Rockleigh Golf Course in 1959, announces its 2024 season lineup, inviting local golfers to join its vibrant community.

With 16 tournaments and multiple outings scheduled, Northwood promises a season filled with friendly competition and camaraderie. From individual play to team events, including two-player and four-player formats, thereʼs something for all.

Northwood Golf Club prides itself on inclusivity, catering to players of all skill levels with sanctioned handicaps ranging from single digits to upper ranges.

Club Championships and Age Group Championships feature multiple flights, ensuring fair play and excitement for all members.

New members are welcomed with a reduced first-year membership fee of $75, covering access to premier facilities, Metropolitan Golf Association membership,

GHIN handicap service, MGA Magazine subscription, tournament prizes, and event trophies.

The 2024 tournament season runs April 22–Oct. 13, with outings at Bergen County courses and beyond, facilitated by the GHIN app. The season concludes with the annual Business Dinner Meeting at Madeleineʼs Petit Paris in Northvale, featuring awards, officer elections, and plans. For applications, email Jim Dugan at dunloedoog@aol.com

small lakes through its Bonus Broodstock program. This year, 10 trout-stocked lakes and ponds throughout the state will receive 30 to 50 broodstock, providing even more exciting opportunities for anglers.

From Saturday, April 6 to Friday, May 31, the minimum legal size required for taking trout is nine inches, with a daily limit of six trout in most trout waters. Beginning Saturday, June 1 and continuing through winter 2025, the daily limit is reduced to four trout.

Following opening day, the stateʼs 14 major trout streams will be stocked weekly and closed to fishing from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. on stocking day to allow trout to dis-

perse. All other waters are open to fishing without the time restriction on stocking days after opening day.

The 2024 stocking schedule and trout allocations, including updates and changes, is on the spring trout webpage. Download the complete in-season stocking schedule.

A list of trout-stocked waters and all freshwater fishing regulations, including size and catch limits, can also be found in the Fishing Digest. Printed copies of the digest are available at license agents and Fish & Wildlife offices. Another resource for information is the Trout Stocking Hotline at (609) 322-9524.

PASCACK VALLEY

Post:

FROM PAGE 4

when the United States fully engaged in the conflict following the controversial Gulf of Tonkin resolution. Over the ensuing years, Frank emphasized to Pascack Press, the American troop presence swelled to a peak of 543,000 by April 1969, marking a significant commitment to the conflict.

However, as the war progressed, public sentiment soured, eroding faith in the governmentʼs actions and strategies. Amid mounting pressure and domestic unrest, the decision was made to withdraw troops and transition operational responsibilities to South Vietnamese forces. By 1973, all U.S. troops had been withdrawn, though the warʼs resolution did not bring about the desired stability. In 1975, South Vietnam fell to Communist forces from the North.

Frank told Pascack Press, “This was not the fault of the Amer-

ican soldiers, marines, sailors and airmen who fought and served there honorably.”

Acknowledging the staggering toll of the conflict, attendees reflected on thae statistics: an estimated 2.7 to 3 million U.S. service members served in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and the surrounding waters. Tragically, over the past five decades, many have

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been lost, with approximately 58,000 names memorialized on the black granite wall of the Nationʼs Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. Additionally, 304,000 individuals were wounded, and 1,253 remain Missing in Action (MIA), their fates still unresolved.

The ceremony concluded with a poignant moment as Horváth read aloud the names of Hillsdaleʼs

young men who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country during the Vietnam War. Frank said it served as a reminder of the profound impact of war on communities across the nation and the enduring legacy of those who answered the call of duty.

Frank said that, as the youngest veterans of the Vietnam era enter their seventies, itʼs essen-

tial to ensure that their sacrifices are not forgotten. He said the postʼs ceremonies honor the memory of those who served and reaffirm a commitment to never letting their contributions fade from the fabric of American history.

Moreover, the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration was authorized by Congress, established under the Secretary of Defense, and launched by President Barack Obama in 2012 to thank and honor our nationʼs Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. Obama officially inaugurated this commemoration at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., on May 28, 2012. By Presidential proclamation, the Vietnam War Commemoration will continue through Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2025. Our nation will commemorate this 50th anniversary over a 13-year period.

General Leonard E. Wood Post 162, although located in Hillsdale, is the home post for residents of Hillsdale, Woodcliff Lake, and Old Tappan.

Hillsdale American Legion Post 162 Viet Nam veterans remembrance, Sunday, March 30, 2024. Zoltán Horváth photo.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

IRS says it makes gains on Covid cheats

Four years after the enactment of a key pandemic-era law, the Internal Revenue Service released updated numbers showing Criminal Investigation (CI) has investigated 1,644 tax and money laundering cases related to COVID fraud potentially totaling $8.9 billion, with well over half that amount coming from cases opened in the last year.

These cases include a wide range of criminal activity, including fraudulently obtained loans, credits and payments meant for American workers, families and small businesses under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

As of Feb. 29, 795 people have been indicted for their alleged COVID-related crimes and 373 individuals have been sentenced to an average of 34

months in federal prison. During the last four years, CI has obtained a 98.5% conviction rate in prosecuted COVID fraud cases.

“The work by IRS Criminal Investigation provides a vital role in protecting against fraud and serves a key part in the agencyʼs wider efforts to ensure fairness in the nationʼs tax system,” said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. “Protecting taxpayers against fraud in pandemic-era programs is just one example of the important role that CI plays in the law enforcement community. A healthy budget for the IRS helps us get the job done, and the work of CI provides a critical safety net to protect the nation against fraud.”

Looking ahead, CIʼs ongoing fraud-protection work will be bolstered by the additional funding

Montvale Clean-up Day April 20

Borough of Montvale: Clean up, celebrate, and get a free tree! On the morning of Saturday, April 20, the Montvale Environmental Commission hosts the Annual Montvale Clean-up Day and celebrating Montvaleʼs Arbor Day and Nationwide Earth Day

Meet at Red Shed (across from the firehouse) on Memorial Drive. The Commission will give shirts to the early arrivers and, as a special treat for our environment, seedlings.

Early-arriving residents who sign in will receive at least one small deer-resistant tree in recognition of Montvaleʼs Arbor Day. Arbor Day is when the Borough of Montvale encourages all residents to plant at least one tree in town.

If a resident does not have an appropriate property to plant a tree, they can designate the tree to be planted on Borough property, where the Environmental Commission is organzing the planting of additional trees.

Trees reduce erosion which prevents water problems, they lower our heating and cooling costs, clean our air and produce oxygen, and trees are used to produce countless wood products.

All are welcome at 9 a.m.

Paticipants will receive gloves and garbage bags and be directed to a location in town to help clean up.

The event runs to noon, when the garbage is hauled to the DPW building across the street from the Red Shed.

The borough thanks the following for their continued participation: Montvale Environmental Commission, Montvale Boy Scout Troop 334, Montvale Cub Scout Pack 336, Montvale Girl Scouts, Montvale Senior Club, and all the residents and groups donating their time.

For more information, visit montvale.org or call the Borough of Montvale at (201)391-5700.

the IRS received through the Inflation Reduction Act, which is providing the agency with additional resources to ensure fair enforcement of the laws as well as improved taxpayer service, new technology and wider IRS transformation efforts.

“In the last year alone, we have opened nearly 700 new COVID fraud investigations that collectively add up to $5 billion in potential fraud,” said CI Chief Guy Ficco. “While COVID may no longer be top of mind to the average American when they wake up, the fraud committed through these different programs is very much top of mind to CI. Our special agents continue to seek out fraudsters who stole money from government loan programs for their personal gain.”

Clean-Up Day 2018 volunteers turn in outstanding work for the community. Photo via Montvale Environmental Commission Chair Robert Hanrahan.

FROM PAGE 1

entered office in 2017. In 2021 alone, according to a statement from his office, the federal tax dollars clawed back amount to an average savings of more than $750 for each household in the Fifth District.

Local leaders from more than 20 municipalities attended this yearʼs summit to learn more about the federal grant opportunities available to their towns.

“The more federal tax dollars we claw back to Jersey, the less our towns have to charge in local taxes. And, as you know well, our taxes are far too high. Jersey has the highest property taxes in the nation, including a median tax bill of more than $15,000 here in Bergen County,” said Gottheimer at the event. “Iʼm all about lowering taxes and making life more affordable because it means more jobs and more people staying in Jersey ”

Local officials and first responders interested in applying for federal grants can learn more on Gottheimerʼs website and are encouraged to call Gottheimerʼs Fair Lawn office at (201) 3891100.

Grant opportunities highlighted during the summit:

• LESO 1033 Program, which helps local law enforcement acquire vehicles, aircraft, and other surplus equipment from the federal government.

ous federal investments clawed back for five pedestrian safety projects, as part of the Congressmanʼs newly-announced Pedestrian Safety Strategy. These investments in Ridgewood, E nglewood, Closter, Hackensack, and Midland Park will fund safe pedestrian paths to schools, the construction of a new bridge, and updated railroad crossings.

• More than $2.3 million in American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grants that will benefit 42 towns across the Fifth District. These grants will go to new protective uniforms, oxygen tanks, and cleaning equipment –which will make our firefighters safer and more effective.

• General Services Administration (GSA) Federal Surplus Personal Property Donation Program, which allows surplus federal property, including vehicles, scientific equipment, and heavy machinery to be donated to state, county, and local organizations.

• Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG), which equip and train firefighters to better respond to emergencies.

• Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grants

(SAFER), which ensures that fire departments can hire and retain a 24-hour firefighting force.

• The Community Oriented Policing Services Program (COPS), which supports police departments in hiring officers and training them in community policing strategies.

• FEMA Non-Profit Security Grant program (NSGP), which funds security enhancements and preparedness activities for nonprofit organizations.

• American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grants (ARPFFG), which helps local fire departments cover the cost of protective clothing and critical equipment.

• Community Project Funding (CPF), which allows Members of Congress to identify and fund high-impact local projects in areas like infrastructure and law enforcement.

Notable Federal Investments Clawed Back for New Jerseyʼs Fifth District Include:

• $4.7 million in Community Project Funding for four floodresistant infrastructure projects in Englewood, Emerson, Leonia, and Tenafly. These grants will help build new sewer systems and expand drainage to mitigate storm damage.

• More than $5 million in Community Project Funding for an additional nine projects, funding new emergency services communications and safety equipment for our first responders, sewage system improvements, and other new infrastructure in Paramus, Bergenfield, Woodcliff Lake, Dumont, Fort Lee, Ridgefield Park, Upper Saddle River, New Milford, and Bergen County as a whole.

• Nearly $1.8 million in vari-

$16M prelim budget EMERSON

The Borough Council introduced a preliminary budget of nearly $16 million for 2024-2025 —an increase of $562,498 over last year—that will increase average annual taxes by $98, said officials April 2.

Council voted 4-0 to introduce the $15,815,200 plan. A hearing is scheduled for May 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Borough Hall.

“That is a 2.32% tax increase

over last year, which is under the national inflation rate of 3.15%,”

Mayor DiPaola said. She said included in the budget is “our continued focus on improving borough infrastructures, which includes the annual road program to keep our roads up to date, as well as the boroughʼs commitment to utilizing grants.”

— By Michael Olohan. See PascackPress.com for more info.

Gottheimer hosted representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Justiceʼs Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), General Services Administration (GSA), New Jersey State Police Surplus (NJSP Surplus), and New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP).

Gottheimer was joined by Cinzia DʼIorio, Vice President of Continuing Education and Workforce Development at Bergen Community College, Alpine Mayor Paul Tomasko, Demarest

Mayor Brian Bernstein, Dumont

Mayor John Russell III, Emerson Borough Clerk Michelle Ryan, Englewood Mayor

Michael Wildes, Englewood

Cliffs Borough Administrator

Jerry Barberio, Englewood

Cliffs Councilman David DiGregorio, Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich, Haworth Mayor

Heather Wasser, Leonia Mayor

Bill Ziegler, Mahwah Mayor Jim Wysocki, Midland Park Mayor

Harry Shortway Jr., Montvale

Mayor Michael Ghassali, New Milford Council President Hedy Grant, Northvale Councilman

Roy Sokoloski, Park Ridge

Mayor Keith Misciagna, Park Ridge Borough Administrator

Magdalena Giandomenico, Ramsey Borough Administrator

Bruce Vozeh, Ridgewood Village

Administrator Keith Kazmark, Ridgefield Park Mayor John

Anlian, River Edge Mayor

Thomas Papaleo, Woodcliff

Lake Councilwoman Jennifer

Margolis, Wyckoff Mayor Peter

Melchionne, and Wyckoff Township Administrator Matt Cavallo.

Sylvan Learning of Park Ridge–Montvale debuts

Sylvan Learning, the leading provider of supplemental and enrichment education for K–12 students, with more than 710 locations worldwide, has opened its newest franchise location in Park Ridge, at 184 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 1-C next to the Dunkinʼ.

Sylvan Learning of Park Ridge–Montvale is owned and operated by Michael Hazen, an attorney and former partner of a local law firm for nearly two decades.

Hazen has a second location planned for nearby Closter.

Sylvan Learning has been producing proven results for over four decades. Now, it serves as a key resource for students as they work to recover from pandemic-related learning loss. Sylvanʼs proven tutoring approach and advanced technology-based curriculum are designed to give each student a personalized, trackable plan to achieve their educational goals.

“Weʼre proud to open our doors in Park Ridge–Montvale and provide a one-stop, all-subject resource to support students through every stage of their academic journey,” said John McAuliffe, CEO of Sylvan.

“It was the right time for me to transition from a partner to a passion-driven entrepreneur, and Iʼve always had a calling in education,” said Hazen, who pursued his masters in education prior to obtaining his law degree. “Iʼve always wanted to be a local business owner, so this is a dream come true to bring this Sylvan to my backyard.”

“Whether a student needs help catching up or advancing their skillset, Sylvan is here to help. I am extremely confident there is no one

HILLSDALE

better to lead this center than Michael.”

Sylvan Learning of Park Ridge–Montvale is at 184 Kin-

derkamack Road, Suite 1-C, Park Ridge. Call (201) 746-6977 and visit SylvanLearning.com or SylvanFranchise.com.

Scenic ‘Hike For Hillsdale’ April 13

Embark on a journey of exploration and enrichment with the Hillsdale Education Foundation (HEF) during Hike For Hillsdale. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Sapienza Gardens in Holdrum Brook, this event promises an unforgettable experience for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Set for Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hike For Hillsdale invites participants to delve into the wonders of the nat-

ural world while supporting educational initiatives for local K-8 students.

As a non-profit, 501(c)3 taxexempt organization, HEF is ded-

icated to providing enrichment programs and technological enhancements that empower students and foster a love for learning.

Funds raised will directly benefit HEFʼs mission to enhance educational opportunities for Hillsdaleʼs youth, ensuring they have access to the resources needed to thrive academically and beyond.

Visit h efnj.com or write info@HEFNJ.com

APPLY! VOLUNTEERFIRE DEPARTMENTSCHOLARSHIP

The officers and members of the Woodcliff Lake Volunteer Fire Department are happy to announce the 22nd year of its scholarship awards program.

The application is available at woodclifflakefd.com. Woodcliff

Lake residents in their senior year of high school are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is May 1, 2024. Thereʼs important information on that application. Donʼt miss out on this great opportunity.

WOODCLIFF LAKE

OBITUARIES

Patricia Y. HARCHER

Patricia Y. Harcher, 82, of Westwood passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2024.

Beloved wife of the late George F. Harcher Jr. Devoted mother of George F. Harcher III and his wife, Josyane, and Keith Harcher a nd his wife, Jennifer. Dear s ister of Max Brummer. Loving Nana of Nicholas, Victoria, Michael, George IV, I sabella, and Brianna.

Patricia was born at Holy Name hospital and raised in River Vale, and graduated Pascack Valley High S chool. She was a cashier at the former Valley Fair department store in Hillsdale, leaving in order to raise her children.

The family will receive their relatives and friends at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood on Thursday, April 4 from 4 to 8 p.m. The funeral service will be held at Becker on Friday, April 5 at 10 a.m. Interment follows at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made in Patriciaʼs name to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital. Becker-FuneralHome.com

Westwood Parking Utility - Parking Enforcement Officer. Looking for an energetic person to identify and issue parking citations to drivers of illegally parked vehicles. Must have mechanical aptitude to be trained to make repairs and must be able to work all shifts (hours between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.) and alternate Saturday hours. Approximately 10 hours per week. Background check required. Must be able to: communicate effectively both orally and in writing, resolve difficult or stressful customer service issues, provide information and other general assistance to the public. Endure moderate physical activity. Requires walking for four hours per day To handle objects of up to 25 lbs. Work in all-weather elements. Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. EOE. Please submit resume and cover letter to Carol Knubel, Parking Utility Administrator at cknubel@westwoodnj .gov by April 12, 2024. The borough reserves the right to interview candidates as applications are received.

L eigh B. HOPPER

Leigh Brickell Hopper passed away peacefully at his home in Montvale on Jan. 14, 2024, two days before his 89th birthday.

The son of the late Walter Hopper and Theresa Titus, Leigh was born Jan. 16, 1935 in Hackensack and grew up in Westwood. He graduated from Westwood High School, and the State University of New York (SUNY) Farmingdale, before proudly serving in the U.S. Navy.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Maria (Ree) Pratt Hopper, two sons, Steven B. (Ann) of Park Ridge and Bruce L. (Dawn C.) of Montvale, and daughter Dawn L. (Christopher) Wentworth of Denmark, Maine; and five cherished grandchildren: Thomas and Amanda Hopper of Park Ridge, Jesse and Hadyn Hopper of Montvale, and Olivia Wentworth of Denmark, Maine. He is also survived by four nephews and their families.

He was predeceased by his sister Cheryl Hopper Todd of the Township of Washington.

He will be remembered by his loving family and hundreds of friends and acquaintances.

He was an owner of Pratt

Plumbing and Heating, and later worked as a New Jersey sub-code official/plumbing inspector in several municipalities in Morris and Passaic counties. He was a member of the New Jersey Plumbing Inspectors Association.

He began his lifetime of community service in Westwood as a volunteer fireman. He was a life member of the Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps, where he served as captain and on the Board of Governors. He served for more than 25 years on the Montvale Board of Health.

He was a Little League coach and Boy Scout leader in Montvale. He was very active in the Jedh C. Barker American Legion Post 153, where he again showed his passion for helping others as their service and benefits officer, helping fellow veterans find their benefits.

He was honored to be Grand Marshal of the 2023 Tri-Boro Memorial Day Parade.

He was a member of Temple Lodge F. & A.M. for over 65 years, the Park Ridge Rotary Club, the North Jersey Regional Model Aʼs, and several other antique car clubs.

He was very proud of his Jersey Dutch roots, as the Hoppers have been in Northern Bergen County since 1660; and he was a member of several local historical societies.

A faithful member of St. Paulʼs Episcopal Church of Montvale, he and his wife were active in overseeing and coordinating the

churchʼs participation in feeding and clothing the homeless at St. Paulʼs Patersonʼs Emergency Menʼs Shelter.

A celebration of his life will be held on April 13 at 10 a.m. at St. Andrewʼs Episcopal Church in Harrington Park, followed by interment at the Westwood Cemetery, where five generations of his family rest. Memorial donations can be made to the Tri-Boro Food Pantry, 65 Pascack Road, Park Ridge, NJ 07656; St. Paulʼs Community Development Corporation, 456 Van Houten St., Paterson, NJ 07501; or Bergen County Historical Society, 1209 Main St., River Edge, NJ 07661.

Leigh always said, “It doesnʼt cost anything to say hello.”

Robert Spearing Funeral Home Inc. rsfhi.com

Ruth L. BEYER

Ruth Lorraine Beyer, 88, died on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Emerson Health and Rehabilitation Center in Emerson.

Born in Nodaway, Iowa and raised in Morehead, Iowa; Ruth moved to Park Ridge, where her husband was a teacher. She resided there most of her life before retiring with her husband, Clayton, to Lakewood, in

F/T Temporary Seasonal Laborer – Hillsdale DPW. Department of Public Works is seeking individuals to assist with maintenance beginning on or about May 1st. Experience not necessary Pays up to $18 per hour. Responsibilities include park & field maintenance, emptying garbage cans, litter removal, & performing other manual labor duties. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.

MOVING/ESTATESALE

WESTWOOD,34 Sycamore Court,April 1213,Friday/Saturday 10-4pm.HH,adult/baby clothes,shoes,jewelry,holiday,tools,art,furniture and much more!

Dynamic BSATroop 350 honors four driven Eagles

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

IN AJUBILANTCEREMONY

March 16 at Zion Lutheran Church, Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo extended his congratulations to the latest Eagle Scouts of Boy Scout Troop 350: Andre Arthur Chevrier, Benjamin Allan Fischer, Liam Finn McDevitt, and Maximus Emilio Perez, whose dedication and hard work were celebrated by the community.

Arroyo expressed his gratitude for the significant contributions made by these young men to the borough through their Eagle projects, which enhance the quality of life in and around Westwood. Each Scoutʼs journey was highlighted during the ceremony, showcasing their growth, leadership, and commitment to service.

Troop 350, sponsored by the Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center, has a long-standing tradition of nurturing young leaders. Arroyo acknowledged the invaluable support provided by parents, mentors, Scout leaders, Pastor Tom Pranchski, and Zion Lutheran Church in shaping these Scoutsʼpaths toward success.

He said, “Together they have put these boys on the path towards a confident, productive and happy life.”

Arroyo posted in part the next day, “And we are especially thankful for Mrs Michelle Meisten and Zionʼs Early Learning Childhood Center for her role in Saturdayʼs event, and others just like it over the course of the last 50 years. During her remarks Mrs Meisten noted that although she has lost the use of her arms and legs, she will always carry these boys—her boys—in her heart. We are certain that feeling is mutual.”

He said, “We are equally certain that there has never been a more eloquent or sincerely pas-

Obits:

FROM PAGE 38 1995.

In 2018, after Clayton passed, Ruth moved to Cedar Crest in Pompton Plains, where she lived for five years, enjoying many activities. Prior to retiring, she was a homemaker and a teacherʼs aide for the Pascack Valley Board of Education, working with children with special needs.

Ruth was predeceased by her loving husband of 53 years, Clayton. She is survived by her four children: Janene Weaver and her husband, Bob; Jonelle von Autenried and her husband, Ron; Lori Fuentes and her husband, Ruben; and Carol Cropley and her husband, Andy; 11 grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, and will be truly missed.

Eagle Watch

sionate advocate for the BSA than Westwoodʼs own Michelle Meisten. And, although her limbs are at rest, we pray that her boys will continue to be blessed by the strength and grace of her voice.”

As forwarded by Sue Chevrier, Troop 350 Committee Member/Recruitment Chair, and mom of Eagle Scout Andre Chevrier):

Maximus Emilio Perez

Max joined Westwood Cub Scout Pack 350 as a Tiger Scout in first grade and crossed over into Westwood Boy Scout Troop 350 in fifth grade. He earned 33 merit badges and held positions including as den chief, assistant patrol leader, patrol leader and troop guide.

Maxʼs Eagle Scout project was for St. Andrewʼs Church in Westwood, of which he is a member. He created a welcome center area, refurbished six bulletin/book wood stands, built four large custom wood planters for the back entrance and power washed the entrance area.

For the welcome center, he modified a desk and two brochure stands, and ran new internet wiring. To fundraise, given his love for cooking and good food, he made and delivered authentic Cuban sandwiches.

A senior at Westwood Regional High School, Max plays trumpet with the marching band, chamber ensemble and wind ensemble. An honors student, he is also a member of the golf team and runs crew and set construction for the Woodington Players theater club. This year, he was the drill sergeant for the marching band and set construction chief

A private funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers donations in Ruthʼs honor may be made to Family Promise of Bergen County, 100 Dayton Street, Ridgewood, NJ 07450. Becker-FuneralHome.com

Catherine V. SABINO

Catherine V. Sabino (née Peppler), 79, who lived in Dumont for 40 years before moving to the Township of W ashington, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 1, 2024. Predeceased by her loving husband, Patrick J. Sabino. Devoted mother of James and his wife, Kara, and Christine Cioffi and her husband, Mark. Dear sister of Barbara Vanderbeck and aunt of Leigh Ann Vanderbeck.

Loving and devoted grand-

and assistant stage manager for the Woodington Players.

Liam Finn McDevitt

Liam started with Cub Scout Pack 350 in first grade and crossed over into Boy Scout Troop 350 in fifth grade. He earned 32 merit badges, and served in leadership positions including assistant patrol leader, quartermaster, den chief and patrol leader.

Having played baseball for the Westwood Baseball Association since he was 4 years old, he chose for his Eagle Project to benefit the Westwood Baseball Association, which was badly in need of a storage shed.

Liam constructed a foundation, assembled a shed, built a ramp and steps for the entrance, along with interior shelving and equipment hooks, and landscaped around it, along with sanding, priming and painting surrounding sheds to match it. He raised money for the project through a car wash and candy sales.

Liam, a sophomore at Bergen Catholic High School, is an honors student and runs with his

mother of Jake Campbell, Max and Devon Cioffi and Michael, Jessica, and Emily Sabino, whom she loved all beyond measure.

Predeceased by her parents, John and Agnes Peppler.

Catherine had a loving heart to everyone she knew, bringing a smile to everyone she came in contact with; if you knew her, you most likely received a card from her. A giving, beautiful soul, she touched so many lives.

The family received relatives and friends on Friday, April 5 at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood. A Mass celebrating Catherineʼs life and faith will be held on Saturday, April 6 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, Hillsdale. Cremation is private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital. stjude.org.

Becker-FuneralHome.com

schoolʼs hard-charging crosscountry, indoor track, and spring track programs.

Benjamin Allan Fischer

Ben joined Cub Scout Troop 350 in first grade and crossed over to Boy Scout Troop 350 in fifth grade. He earned 30 merit badges, and has held leadership positions including assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, and assistant senior patrol leader—the second highest youth position in the troop.

A member of St. Andrewʼs Church, Ben chose for his Eagle project to benefit the food pantry. He set up industrial shelves and plastic pallets for storage, rolling bins to organize reusable bags, and an outside donation box. He also held a food drive that raised more than 1,000 pounds of food donations. He sold candy at the Westwood Summer Movies in the Park to raise money for the project.

An honors student, Ben is a junior at Westwood Regional High School, where heʼs on the varsity bowling team, and a member of the hiking club, animal appreciation club and yo-yo club.

John P. SCHLAPAK

With great sadness we announce the passing of John P Schlapak, 76, on March 23, 2024. John, was born in Elizabeth. Formerly of Roselle Park, Park Ridge, Norwood, and most recently Westwood.

He was predeceased by his parents, Mary and William Schlapak Sr.; his cherished twin brother, Thomas P Schlapak; and his sister-in-law Patricia L. Schlapak. He is survived by his brother William, his sister-in-law Helen, his niece Amy Karnai, her husband, Jeremy, and his grand-nephew Logan. Johnʼs passion for music enticed him to open his own retail business Music Merchant in Westwood, which he ran for almost 45 years. He was greatly

Andre Arthur Chevrier

Andre joined Cub Scout Pack 350 as a Bear in third grade and moved up to Boy Scout Troop 350 in fifth grade. He earned 31 merit badges, and held positions including den chief, assistant patrol leader, patrol leader and senior patrol leader— the top youth position in the troop. He also ranks at the Brotherhood level in the Order of the Arrow, the BSA national honor society.

For his Eagle project, he transformed a neglected courtyard at Westwood Regional High School, cutting back overgrown trees, bushes, and other vegetation; cleaning out a clogged pond, replacing the pump and adding fish; planting flowers, mulching and seeding; repairing the benches and constructing new picnic tables, and installing a birdbath, so the courtyard can be used again by students and teachers, in and out of class.

To fundraise, Andre sold flower bulbs and ran a car wash, and was able to present the school with approximately $1,500 for a greenhouse fund for the new greenhouse. VFW Post 6192 contributed to the courtyard (separate from Andreʼs project).

An honors student, Andre is a junior at Westwood Regional High School. He volunteers with the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps and the townʼs SNAP tennis program, and plays piano and trombone.

He is a varsity member of the tennis and cross-country teams and a junior varsity member of the winter track team.

He was a member of the marching band and varsity bowling team. He co-founded the high school Hiking Club, and is a member of the Science League, the varsity debate team, and the Environmental Club

loved by his beagle Crackerjack, who surely welcomed him at Rainbow Bridge. John enjoyed watching old movies and television series, having a good meal with his favorite beer and discussing politics. He will be deeply missed by both family and friends.

In lieu of a wake, family and friends are invited to a memorial and graveside service, arrangements to be announced.

In memory of John, please consider a donation to Ramapo Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc., 2 Shelter Lane, Oakland NJ 07436.

Troop 350 Eagle Scouts Maximus Perez, Liam McDevitt, Benjamin Fischer, and Andre Chevrier. Photo via Sue Chevrier.