Pascack Press 5.8.23

ANNUAL KIDFISHING CONTEST MAY 13

Date was changed following weekend of rainstorms; all kids age 4–16 welcome

The 31st Annual Kid Fishing Contest, sponsored by the Friends of the Pascack Brook, is on for Saturday, May 13 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine.

All kids 4–16 are invited to fish the trout-stocked Pascack Brook between St. John R.C. Church in Hillsdale and Brookside Place in Westwood.

There is no advance registration or fee. In order to compete for trophies, prizes, and other awards, kids should have all trout caught the day of the contest measured and recorded during contest hours at the police booth in Hillsdale.

All club-tagged fish (thereʼll be some 500) caught will be awarded prizes during contest hours.

The Westwood Elks Lodge #1562, at 523 Kinderkamack Road, will serve hamburgers, hot dogs, and soda from noon to 2 p.m.

Anyone wishing to donate may send contributions to Friends of the Pascack Brook, P.O. Box 84, Hillsdale, N.J. 07642.

The event was rescheduled from April 29, when the area was socked with rain.

LOCAL STUDENTS STEM-SMART LOCAL STUDENTS STEM-SMART

Hillsdale, Park Ridge represent in state partnership

WWRSD

SOLIDARITY ONLGBTQ ATLIVELY BOE MEETING

Cheers, hugs as families, union push back on ʻattackʼ; Pontillo seats committee on reviewing policy over sex, health curriculum updates

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Governor’s STEM Scholars,a program of the Research & Development Council of New Jersey.

CONGRATULTIONSTO

Kareena Shah of Hillsdale and Elizabeth McNamara of Park Ridge, April 29 graduates of the Governorʼs STEM Scholars, a program of the Research & Development Council of New Jersey.

One hundred twenty-six New Jersey high school and college students completed the year-long program, which provides “a 360-degree view of New Jerseyʼs STEM economy through conferences, lab tours, master classes, and research.”

A public-private partnership among the Research &

Development Council of New Jersey, the Governorʼs Office, New Jersey Department of Education, Secretary of Higher Education, and public and private research companies, the Governorʼs STEM Scholars provides high-achieving high school, college, and graduate students with a comprehensive introduction to the stateʼs STEM economy.

The Scholars are a diverse and representative group of student leaders from all over the Garden State who excel in STEM and are interested in pursuing STEM-related majors and careers.

“Over the past year, 126 of New Jerseyʼs most promising high school and college students have received an immersive look into the stateʼs STEM economy, better preparing them for their careers here in the Garden State,” said Alise Roderer, director of the Governorʼs STEM Scholars. “As a Governorʼs STEM Scholar, Kareena Shah and Elizabeth McNamara gained a unique introduction to New Jerseyʼs STEM economy and opportunities through conferences, field trips, internship

Continued on page 6

Westwood Regional School Board president Michael Pontillo appointed an ad hoc committee April 27 to review the age-appropriateness of topics in the state-mandated health and physical education curriculum.

The move followed a public meeting where an outpouring of Westwood and Township of Washington residents and others — the gallery at the high schoolʼs Campbell Auditorium approached 200 strong — called for acceptance of LGBTQ individuals by school trustees.

Pontillo said it was within his purview to create the committee. He said the committee, composed of James Parrino, Stacey Price, Laura Cooper, and himself as an ex-officio member, will begin meetings in May.

He also apologized to the Westwood Education Association after 14 former school board members sent a See SOLIDARITY on page 32

In excellent company: Kareena Shah of Hillsdale and Elizabeth McNamara of Park Ridge are among 126 high school and college students graduated from this year’s

Valley could lead on green fixes

To the editor:

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

an example for other communities across the region. By adopting more sustainable practices, we can ensure a better quality of life for future generations, as well as improving the health of todayʼs residents. The easiest way to evaluate implementing certain practices is to focus on two “swim lanes” of sustainability: transportation and education.

Transportation is a significant

DRIVING SCHOOL INC.

Lic.

•

source of carbon emissions. We can reduce these emissions by promoting alternative modes of transportation such as cycling, walking, and public transportation. Through investing in bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, and public transportation, counties can encourage their residents to be more sustainable.

Additionally, they can promote carpooling and the use of electric vehicles by setting up more charging stations like the ones at Ticeʼs Corner, Woodcliff Lake, or Wegmans in Montvale. By distributing more charging stations, the Pascack Valley would also contribute towards meeting state sustainability goals as well. Beyond encouraging greener forms of transportation, investing in sustainability education would create a more environmentalfriendly mindset. In 2007, the Ber-

gen County Utilities Authority introduced an Environmental Awareness Challenge Grant aimed at educating students about the environment. Yet during my time as a student in the Pascack Valley school system, topics about the environment or sustainable living practices were rarely discussed in or outside the classroom.

Therefore, to ensure a better future for our community, all public and private schools should be encouraged to apply for these and other grants to promote environmental awareness through education. A grant could be used to invite guest speakers or even implement essential curriculums into health classes to raise studentsʼlevel of awareness about importance of sustainability.

Through these or other workshop opportunities, students can learn about sustainability at a younger age, which is the best

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

time to teach behaviors that will carry them through the rest of their lives.

Anna Lewis Woodcliff Lake At Lehigh University

Questions for Hillsdale candidate

To the editor:

COUNCILMAN HORVÁ TH has declared his desire to be elected as mayor (or re-elected as councilman) through a write-in cam-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Washington Elementary-area safety focus of committee

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

A parent who was pushing her 2-year-old in a stroller on Wayne Place and was nearly hit by a distracted driver over a year ago alleged to Township Council that the adults in charge are “knowingly allowing the children of our community to be put in danger every day” during dropoff and pickup times at the school.

Resident Rachel Oldenburger said that in November 2021, she had just dropped off her child for kindergarten at Washington Elementary School and was walking in a walking lane set off by cones when a car swerved into the lane and nearly hit the stroller.

The areas around Washington Elementary School — including Wayne Place and White Birch Road — lack sidewalks, and children and parents must traverse congested, busy streets lined with parked cars.

(See “Sidewalks on Hold; Committee To Consider Options,” Michael Olohan, April 24, 2023, Pascack Press.)

Oldenburger told the council April 24 that she would be in favor of sidewalks for childrenʼs safety but later noted she had “an open mind” on whether sidewalks were the best option.

After Oldenburger asked to be included on the advisory committee being formed to recommend solutions to the situation, Council President Desserie Morgan invited her to join.

Councilman Steven Cascio has the issue of sidewalks has come up “cyclically” over the years and would be discussed but

no sidewalks ever resulted on the busy side streets.

Oldenburger said she had surveyed 54 people on the issue and that 83% said sidewalks are needed while 17% voted against sidewalks.

She said that more than half of those said that Wayne Place is unsafe during pickup/dropoff but favor another solution.

She read the council comments made by parents who took the survey and noted that they all said nearby streets were unsafe for children. She said not fixing the problem was “risking the lives” of 300 kids and siblings at least 180 days a year.

Her husband, Jake, raised similar child safety concerns and suggested that the stateʼs Complete Streets program might offer some funds for safety improvements.

Morgan said that with all the after-school and weekend events occurring at nearby Memorial Field and the school during nonschool hours, the area is regularly used almost 365 days a year by kids and adults going back and forth to the school, fields and recreational courts.

Morgan said that she had reached out to the Westwood regional school board on the issue and said the interim superintendent agreed something needed to be done.

She said she recently spoke with residents on Wayne Place and White Birch Road about the safety concerns.

She said the committee would be composed of “stakeholders” including the regional boardʼs interim superintendent, a school board representative, a councilman, the mayor, township

administrator, township engineer, police chief, and others. She said the committee would be asked to “hash it out now and figure out the best moves for the town.”

Prior suggestions to help ease congestion and safety concerns included making a vehicle turning loop near the school so parents could drop off children quickly and then continue on.

Morgan said that the committee needed to go over “all the options” and determine what may be the best option to improve safety. She said “maybe at the end” of all committee discussions, they determine that sidewalks are the best option.

Mayor Peter Calamari said that “inaction is not an option” and noted that the problem has gone on too long.

Councilwoman Stacey Feeney asked if purchasing 450 Pascack Road had been considered in parent discussions of the safety problems. She was told that parents were discussing how the 3.2-acre property at 450 Pascack Road might be used for parking or a turnaround option.

Councilwoman Daisy Velez noted she had inquired about schools in eight towns and found that they all had sidewalks or loops for car turnarounds near the school for drop offs and pickups.

Lately, 450 Pascack Road has been mentioned as a possible parking site for both Washington School and Memorial Field, as a

p ossible cut-through or turnaround for school drop offs and pickups, and future public uses. A $430,000 bid, under threat of condemnation, was made on the site in 2021 but few details are known

about ongoing negotiations.

Morgan said she hoped the committee would meet soon, and noted she would not mind spending money, “if itʼs the right solution…safety trumps everything.”

Bckintime... Bckintime...

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

‘The burglars at once disappeared...’

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS EMERSON

THEFOLLOWINGARTICLE appeared in The Paterson News on May 12, 1905. In the early 20th century, Etna was the name for what is now the Borough of Emerson. The crime in question took place at Etnaʼs most popular meeting place: Blockʼs Hotel, an inn run by August Block. The building still stands, as the Emerson Hotel.

BOLD BURGLARS ESCAPED

Valley Chabad Teen Gala May 22

PASCACK VALLEY

The elegant Womanʼs Club of Ridgewood is the setting for Valley Chabadʼs 2023 Teen Gala, celebrating teen leadership, on Monday, May 22 at 7 p.m. The event recognizes the more than 180 teen volunteer participants in Valley Chabadʼs five Teen Leadership Initiative programs from throughout the Pascack Valley and Saddle River communities. The annual event is attended by the honoree teens, their parents and friends, com-

See VALLEY on page 17

Stole a rifle and then dodged the mayor of Etna

The burglars entered early yesterday morning August Blockʼs hotel at Etna. They had gathered considerable silverware, a rifle, and several demijohns of liquor before a boarder was awakened.

He looked out of the window and saw the burglars hitching Blockʼs team to a wagon. The boarder aroused his host, and the hotelkeeper at once went to get his rifle. It was gone.

“Donʼt say a word to the burglars,” said Block, “for they have my rifle and may kill us all.”

The boarder was not so easily to be frightened. He raised a window and yelled: “What do you men want?”

The burglars at once disappeared.

Mayor Charles Miller and a neighbor boarded the first eastbound train on the New Jersey and New York railroad, hoping to see the burglars get aboard at a station a mile or two below Etna. At River Edge two men, carrying a bundle and armed with a rifle, got on a train and took a seat in the smoker.

“Iʼm going to arrest these men!” the mayor said.

“Be careful. Probably they are the burglars, but if you make a mistake they will sue the borough for damages,” the neighbor said.

August Block that the burglars had been found, but not captured, and they were on their way to New York. ***

“WHYNOTJUST call the police?” one might wonder after reading that story. In 1905, the rural community of Etna, with about 600 residents, did not have a municipal police department. Instead, borough marshals kept order.

Etnaʼs borough marshal had run into some trouble just a few months earlier. A news report from January 1905 tells us that he had been arrested and put in jail for the crime of passing bad checks at a number of local watering holes—including Blockʼs Hotel. At Blockʼs, the marshal had paid his tab using a bad check in the amount of $15. It might not sound like much, but in 1905 that sum was equivalent to more than $500 in todayʼs money. Block filed a complaint and the constable came from Hackensack to arrest the borough marshal. Blockʼs Hall had long been an important landmark in the small town. After the railroad came to the Pascack Valley in 1870, the ensuing decade saw a hotel built next to nearly every station along the line. The one in Kinderkamack, later called Etna and then Emerson, came in 1872. Original owner George Wallace built his hotel across the street from the station, at presentday 31 Emerson Plaza East.

From the collection of the Pascack Historical Society.

Consequently no arrest was made. At Carlstadt, Mayor Miller sent a message to

Around 1890, Wallace sold the hotel to August Block (1852–1912), who had already been managing the establishment for six years. Under new ownership, the place came to be known as Blockʼs Hotel.

Over the years many borough meetings, weddings, and other gatherings took place there, and a couple babies were even born on the premises. Block built an ice house next to his hotel. In that era before refrigeration, ice would be cut from a lake in the winter and stored in the ice house so that guests could have cold drinks in the summer

The first municipal election in Etna took place at Blockʼs Hotel in 1903 and meetings of the Emerson Mayor and Council were held there for years. Some of these meetings must have gotten rather lively, as customers from the tap room were known to wander into the council chambers to sound off with loud and sometimes slightly drunken complaints.

In the early 20th century, Emerson baseball teams played on the grounds behind Blockʼs Hotel. Behind the building a tract of land covered in brush and cattails stretched all the way back to Palisades Avenue. Before the Church of the Assumption was formed in 1905, Etnaʼs early Italian-American Catholic families attended masses in the ballroom of the hotel. When the Emerson Fire Department got its start in 1905, and the extent of their equipment was buckets and pike poles, Blockʼs Hotel was their headquarters.

—Kristin Beuscher is president of Pascack Historical Society

Publisher John J. DeFina

EditorJohn Snyder

Staff Writer Michael Olohan

Contributing EditorKristin Beuscher

Art Director Keith J. Harcher

Harcher

A circa-1900 bottle embossed with “A.BLOCK, ETNA N.J ”was used at August Block’s hotel in the presentday Borough of Emerson.

Block’s Hotel, from a postcard, in the early 1900s The hotel was an important meeting place in the Borough of Etna, now called Emerson. The building still stands,as the Emerson Hotel restaurant.

A previous year’s Valley Chabad Teen Gala.The program is directed by Rabbi Yosef and Estie Orenstein. Valley Chabad photo.

Council intros $15.6M budget, with $256 average tax hit

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

After six budget meetings over the last month spent questioning department heads, reviewing expenses, and reducing costs where possible, the Township Council voted, 4-1, on April 24 to introduce a $15.6 million municipal budget that raises taxes $256 on the average homeowner.

A public hearing on the

$15,612,581 budget will be held

6:30 p.m., Monday, May 22. The amount to be raised by local taxes is $10,726,742.

Of the average $256 tax increase, $242 is for municipal operations and $14 for the public library.

“It is anticipated that the municipal taxes on an average home currently assessed at $465,000 will increase $256,” states the budget message included in the 76-page document.

Councilman Steven Cascio,

who participated in the budget hearings, voted against introducing the budget. “No, I think we can do better,” he said on April 24.

He later told Pascack Press , “I know the township council can do better lowering the mayorʼs budget much more than that was presented. Although there was a reduction in the proposed budget, I am firmly convinced the council could have kept the budget flat from the 2022 budget and not increased it.”

The budget is posted on the township website under Budget/Financials on the Government dropdown menu. Click on the “2023 Introduced Budget.”

The council went page by page through the draft budget, with members voting yes or no on each page of the budget after discussions to approve, reduce or eliminate individual line items.

Cascio noted, “While some costs have increased due to the country's economy (that the council has no control over), the

administration and council should have cut back further in other areas. Needs and ʻlike to havesʼor ʻwantsʼare two different animals. The property taxes have become burdensome to a majority of township taxpayers and it is not sustainable for those that wish to live and prosper here. For the above reason I voted no to introduce and possibly rework the numbers.”

Of four favorable voters, only Councilwoman Stacey

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Township reaching for open space funds on 450 Pascack

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

The Township Council unanimously approved moving forward with a $900,000 county open space grant application for the 3.2-acre tract at 450 Pascack Road on May 1, with a dozen residents voicing support for the acquisition and suggesting uses. The vote was 5-0 to apply for the grant. No matching funds are required on the $900,000 grant. Generally, the county Open Space Fund provides less than 100 percent of the funds requested.

Township administrator Mark DiCarlo told Pascack Press

on May 2 that the $900,000 figure was determined by “negotiations/discussions between the Township attorney and sellerʼs attorney supported by appraisals.”

He said they anticipate hearing in four or five months whether the Bergen County Open Space Committee will recommend the funding and expect a Bergen County Commissionersʼvote by yearʼs end.

In summer 2021, threatening condemnation, the town bid $430,000 for the mostly wooded residential property adjacent to Memorial Field and George Washington Elementary School. Since then, council members, upon advice from attorney Kenneth Poller, have mostly refrained

from commenting on negotiations.

In summer 2020, developer Nick Tsapatsaris & Associates proposed a 48-unit senior living complex on the site. This was opposed by neighbors, and the proposal was withdrawn.

Since then, neighbors, residents and public officials have discussed its possible purchase, with some speculating a developer might wish to develop the property for multifamily and affordable housing, which most residents whoʼve spoken out say they do not want there.

At council meetings lately, residents have suggested the property could serve partly as a supplementary parking lot of about 30 spaces for the school, as well as a possible connecting road to alleviate congestion during dropoff and pickup times.

(A committee to improve safety during Washington School dropoff/pickup periods was likely

to meet in May, said officials.)

Efforts to reach David Biunno, grants consultant, GLD Associates, for details were not returned by press time.

The property owners are marketing the property for $2.1 million on commercial real estate sites and have declined to speak with Pascack Press on the record.

Former independent councilman Michael Ullman questioned whether an access road or parking could be built at 450 Pascack Road should the town acquire it under Open Space funding. Biunno said that parking might be approved if the parking was used as an accessory to active/passive recreation on the site.

However, Biunno said constructing a road to ease elementary school traffic congestion was likely not possible, as grant funds would restrict the site to active/passive recreational uses. He said the county Open Space officials would determine what

land use is permissible under the Open Space guidelines.

B iunno told Ullman that there was no plan yet for the 450 Pascack property. He said phase two would be creating such a plan, similar to whatʼs occurring with the 6-acre-plus former swim and recreation club property, at RidgewoodBoulevard North, purchased with open space funds last year.

Biunno stressed applying for the grant and later deciding whether accepting it is the right move. He said council can always reject the funds. Other residents suggested collaborating with the Westwood Regional School District on its purchase, or simply purchasing it via bonds over a longer period.

Council also unanimously approved applying for a $325,000 matching county Open Space grant for improvements to the club property. The total amount, with local matching funds, would equal $650,000.

Mayor Peter Calamari said a plan for upgrades to the property likely will be presented soon.

Local:

FROM PAGE 1 opportunities, and a collaborative research project.”

Throughout the academic year each student participated in four conferences highlighting New Jersey STEM opportunities in government, academia, industry, and the upcoming commencement. Each Scholar was led by a college-level team leader, mentored through professional STEM advisors, and produced a viable research project.

Shah is a senior at Pascack Valley High School. McNamara is a senior at Bergen County Academies.

As graduates of the Governorʼs STEM Scholars, students will have access to the Governorʼs STEM Scholars alumni network of over 700 students, which will enable them to stay connected to STEM jobs and opportunities within the state.

Applications for the 20232024 Governorʼs STEM Scholars program are open through June 9. For more information visit govstemscholars.com/apply

WWRSD OKs $73.5M budget

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The Westwood Regional School District board unanimously approved a $73.5 million 20232024 budget and a local tax levy of nearly $59 million, an increase of 1.37% in overall tax levy to Westwood and Township of Washington homeowners.

The budget was approved by a vote of 9-0 on April 27, said District Business Administrator Keith Rosado.

On the average assessed

Westwood home of $496,425, taxes will decrease to $6,674 from $7,150, a drop of nearly $476.

On an average Washington Township home assessed at $472,557, taxes will increase to $8,182 from $7,900 last year, a jump of $282.

Rosado said that the state equalization formula which provides tax rates for the regional school shows a decrease of about 1% for Westwood taxpayers and an increase of about 1% for township taxpayers in the 2023-2024 school tax levy.

Overall, taxes will decrease

$95.91 for every $100,000 of assessed home value in Westwood while taxes will increase $59.75 on every $100,000 of assessed value in the township.

The total budget was $73,515,971, which includes debt service and state aid, and a local tax levy of $59,010,676.

Rosado gave a slide presentation April 27 at the budget hearing. No questions or comments were asked by trustees or the public at the meeting. The presentation can be viewed at the district website.

Rosado told residents that the

state-determined percent of tax allocation shows Westwood residents paying 52.059% of the regional tax levy and township residents will pay 47.941% of the $59 million school tab.

For the 2023–2024 budget, Westwood taxes per $100,000 of assessed value will be $1,344.46. For the prior budget year, taxes were $1,440.37 per $100,000.

In the Township, taxes per $100,000 of assessed value in 2023-2024 will be $1,731.51 ver-

sus the $1,671.76 rate per $100,000 in value from the prior budget year.

Nearly 80% of the local school district tax levy is paid for by property taxes, Rosado said.

At the May 1 Washington Township Council meeting, councilwoman Stacey Feeney said she was looking into rolling property assessment valuations — currently conducted in West-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

FROM PAGE 2 paign [see Letters, May 1, 2023]. Iʼm quite confused by the councilmanʼs explanation as to why his name wonʼt be on the primary ballot. Iʼm posing these questions as the residents he is asking to vote for him deserve answers.

Councilman Horváthis asking the public to believe that the “vindictive, spiteful” council majority somehow persuaded the Republican County Committee not to run him but rather the man he says we maliciously hindered and restricted, in his place? The man he blindly follows vied for his seat and effectively unseated him along with another incumbent. The logic escapes me but perhaps he can clar-

ify why the council majority would try to influence this.

Councilman Horváthwas offered a seat on the Finance Committee this year to assist in formulating the budget. He turned it down. Why? He was offered the liaison position to the Planning Board and turned it down. Why? Why would an elected official refuse to sit on two of the most important committees and boards?

What accomplishments can the councilman site in his seven year tenure? Did he advocate for field and recreation improvements? He did not. Did he vote in favor of infrastructure and equipment improvements or upgrades that would benefit the town? He did not.

To the councilman, Iwould say, please tell the voters why it is youʼre seeking election (or re-election) other than that you feel slighted. What have you done for Hills-

dale in your capacity as an elected official and why should residents vote for you? If elected, will you once again refuse to govern on behalf of those who cast their vote for you? Your record tells the story but perhaps Iʼm missing something.

Abby Lundy Hillsdale Councilwoman Finance Committee Chair

Respect for transgender people

To the editor:

DICK BOZZONE stated [Letters, May 1, 2023] that in his 64 years in the American Legion, he has “gone out of [his] way to not involve the organization in political controversy.” He then railed against legislation offering freedom for transgender athletes.

I commend Mr. Bozzone for his tenure with the American Legion. Considering the many “controversial” legislative issues arising during his six decades with the organization—Civil Rights, Voting Rights, Equal Rights—itʼs surprising that he chose to break his silence to publicly assert his views on this particular matter…expressly on behalf of an organization whose

purpose is to represent war veteranʼs issues and is, by legal definition, non-partisan. Perhaps Iʼm blissfully unaware of the national security threat posed by transgender athletes.

Transgender people have been under attack by politicians and the media for years. Their pivot to sports is another calculated front in this assault.

To score cheap political points with their base, right wing politicians have spread disinformation to push legislation that shuts trans people out of public spaces. Lawmakers have introduced hundreds of bills seeking to ban trans people from participating in athletics— efforts coordinated by persistent anti-LGBTQ groups.

Mr. Bozzone should feel secure knowing there are currently 533 anti-trans bills across the country seeking to block trans people from receiving basic healthcare, education, legal recognition, and the right to publicly exist. Another 54 bills have already passed.

Many of these bills seek to ban trans youth from participating in sports teams, stripping them of their identity and dignity

The IOC and NCAA baseline for eligibility for all athletes is inclusion and fairness based on the principle of no presumption of advantage. They base their policies on plentiful research showing that transgender athletes do not have an

inherent advantage in sport and should be accepted.

But the anti-LGBTQ acolytes' greatest frenzy is over K-12 trans children. Is this because the number of transgender athletes at these young levels is so prevalent and damaging? No. According to the AP, legislators in 20+ states striving to ban transgender students from sports could not cite a single instance in their own state or region where such participation has caused problems or even occurred.

Playing sports in K-12 generates well-known academic, emotional, mental, and social benefits. The purpose of youth sports is to help children maintain good physical health, build self-confidence and self-esteem, grow leadership skills, understand the value of teamwork, and lower rates of anxiety and depression. Transgender youth should not be shut out from these opportunities. In fact, because transgender young people often must overcome significant stigma, challenges, and abuse, it would be particularly harmful to exclude them from the significant benefits young people gain by playing sports. Naturally, these anti-trans bills are opposed by organizations dedicated to childrenʼs health, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the National Association of Social Workers, and more.

Resist manipulation by underhanded legislators and media talking heads who use transgender youth as a culture war wedge issue. Believing and perpetuating myths and misconceptions about trans athletes is harmful. And banning athletes from playing sports consistent with who they are is discrimination against people who simply want to live as their true selves.

Intolerance and inequity are cruel and decidedly un-American.

Adam Shapiro River Vale

To the editor:

NLASTWEEK ʼ S Pascack Press, a member of the American Legion wrote in expressing his views on womenʼs athletics [Letters, May 1, 2023].

Budget: $15.6M

FROM PAGE 5

Feeney offered a comment on April 24. “Yes, I do commend the mayor and administration for doing a great job and thank you Mr. Corcoran,” she said.

John Corcoran is the townshipʼs chief financial officer. He participated in all budget meetings.

In addition to Feeney, Council President Desserie Morgan, councilwoman Daisy Velez, and councilman Tom Sears voted in favor of the budget introduction.

Our efforts to get a budget summary sheet, or budget highlights from Corcoran were not returned by press time.

At the April 4 budget meeting, following completion of its budget review, Morgan said, “I think we did a pretty good job of trimming the budget as much as we could with what was in our

power outside of just inflation in general.”

She later added, “Good job guys and thank you for being open-minded … I think we did the best we could.”

Mayor Peter Calamari complimented the budget process in early April.

“On behalf of the administration and department heads, we a ppreciate your work on the budget, we think you worked with the department heads … the decreases were very in line, very reasonable, so on behalf of all the employees in the departments, I want to thank the council for coming up with the budget that they did,” he said.

Added Calamari, “Itʼs always a pleasure working with you on this.”

The budget shows an increase of $1,088,920 over the 2022 municipal budget, according to the proposed 2023 budget.

Sound off: Forum on middle school ‘next steps’ June 1

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

A public forum to discuss “next steps” for the Hillsdale Public School District to take on the century-old George G. White Middle School is set for Thursday, June 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the middle school cafetorium.

On March 14, local voters, by a nearly 2-1 margin, defeated an $82.7 million bond referendum to replace the existing middle school with a new, state of the art facility and a new recreational field.

The district had created a web portal, Road to Referendum, to pro-

mote the referendum, produced a video and brochure, and held an online Q&A forum to answer resident questions on the referendum Superintendent Robert Lombardy emailed families May 2 urging them to register for the forum.

He said, “As we have communicated in the past, George G. White Middle School has long been showing its age from nearly a century of wear and tear. The need for updating and creating space to accommodate our current and future learners and programming along with replacing an aging infrastructure inclusive of HVAC, electric, roofing, windows and doors are all among the priorities.”

Lombardy said, “Each of these challenges are significant and there is no ʻsmall fixʼto what has been a problem that has persisted for over a decade.” He said, “To gain feedback about next steps we are holding an open forum meeting where residents can come and share input and possible productive solutions for consideration to address the chal-

PARK RIDGE

lenges that exist.”

The forum is in-person only, said Lombardy. The district does not broadcast school board meetings, although it did conduct a referendum forum on Zoom.

On Road to Referendum, the district notes, “The option to renovate George G. White Middle School — which was explored in

the early development phases of the March 14 referendum — is not an automatic next step. No matter what direction the board takes next, a bond referendum is likely in Hillsdaleʼs future. We have known for years that the large-scale renovation that GW needs cannot be paid for from the annual operating budget.”

Lottery millionaire minted at Krauszer’s

One lucky lottery ticket matched all five numbers drawn winning the $1,405,135 Jersey Cash 5 jackpot from the Thursday, April 20, drawing. The winning ticket was sold at Krauszerʼs, 127 Park Ave., according to New Jersey Lottery.

The winning numbers were 5, 8, 21, 38, and 40 and the XTRA number was 2. The retailer will receive a bonus check for $2,000 for the winning ticket sold.

“Congratulations to our very fortunate Jersey Cash 5 winner! We hope this incredible prize brings joy and happiness to the winner; weʼre already looking forward to awarding another jackpot prize!” said New Jersey Lottery Executive Director James Carey.

Nine daily drawings were held without a top-prize winner before Thursday The jackpot for Fridayʼs drawing rolls back to an

estimated

1 and 45) are 1,221,759 to 1.

One lucky ticket matched the Jersey Cash 5 at Krauszer’s Food Store in Park Ridge on April 20,grossing $1,405,135.The retailer gets $2,000.

$100,000. The odds of a $1 ticket matching all five numbers (between

The Cardinal Youth Cheerleading program is open to residents of Westwood and Washington Township who are in grades 1–7. Registration for the fall 2023 season runs Monday, May 8 and Wednesday, May 17 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave.

The registration fee is $160 for cheerleaders now in 1st grade and $185 for cheerleaders now in grades 2–7.

Cheerleaders must accompany their parents to registration so that they can be sized for uni-

forms. A cheerleading fleece jacket must also be purchased for an additional fee.

The program begins the week of Aug. 7 and continues into midovember. There ill be a choreography camp the second and third weeks in August.

Practice is held three times per week; the cheerleaders will cheer for the Junior Cardinal Football team. Games are played every weekend starting in September.

For the code of conduct and guidelines for the season, see cardinalyouthcheerleading.weebly.com

SIGN UP FOR RAVEALERTS

The Hillsdale Police Department and Borough of Hillsdale are now using the RAVE Alert System, which replaces Swift Reach. If you were signed up for Swift Reach, your information will be transferred over, but officials encourage you to sign into your account and update your

information. Under this new system, you will be able to receive alerts through a phone call, text message, email and social media. All you have to do is sign up and choose what you want to receive and how. See the borough website for more information.

ADVERTISEYOURSERVICEINTHE SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS.

Marion Lorenzo, ACSW, LCSW

(201) 666-1241

N.J. Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Providing Counseling & Psychotherapy, Individuals, Couples & Families, Anxiety, Depression, Co-Dependency Relationships, Loss, Self Esteem

PASCACK VALLEY

Greater Pascack Valley WC awards

Members of the NJSFWC

Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club attended the spring conference of the Palisades District of the New Jersey Federation of Womenʼs Clubs April 26 at the Fiesta in Wood Ridge.

This event is held annually to celebrate the achievements of the 20 clubs in the district, which encompasses eastern Bergen County.

Greater Pascack Valley received top awards in community engagement and outreach; fundraising; arts performance; communications; and for its work with the special stage project; the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation.

Elaine Mooney was honored for her work in membership recruitment.

The Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club has been a proud member of the New Jersey Federation of Womenʼs Clubs since 1990. The club welcomes women

Members of the Greater Pascack Valley Woman’s Club attend the recent Spring Conference of the Palisades District of the New Jersey Federation of Women’s Clubs.Above:Elaine Mooney,Judith Brendel,Mary Lynn Mazzarella, Beverly Mancini,and Merci Norwood. Via Kathy Grubb.

who want to make a difference in their community and in their lives.

The club next meets Monday, May 8 at 7 p.m. in the Community Room of Park Ridge Borough Hall.

For more on NJSFWC

Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club, call Carolyn Delafrange at (201) 819-1000, write GPVWC1990@gmail.com, or find it on Facebook.

“Be The Best You Can Be”

Very happy 100th to Arnold H. Braver

Arnold Harold Braver of River Vale turns 100 on Tuesday, May 9. Joel K. Braver, M.D., tells Pascack Press, “My father is a World War II veteran, having served as a member of the military police in Gen. George S. Pattonʼs Third Army. He is a Purple Heart recipient. He was wounded and briefly captured by the Germans before they elected to surrender to him, as they feared the Russians were coming.”

Doctor Braver says, “Following the war, my father went on to continue his college education at City College of New York and a J.D. from Brooklyn Law School.”

The elder Braver spent most of his career as the CFO and vice-president of Stanbee Corporation, which manufactures materials used in shoes.

Arnold and Rhoda were wed in 1951. They lived in Queens, N.Y. and then in Fairfield, Conn. before moving to River Vale in 1965. In October 2021 they celebrated 70 years of marriage. Rhoda passed Dec. 31, 2021. They have sons Gary, Richard, and Joel, seven granddaughters, and one grandson. “Hal” still lives at home in River Vale.

Hillsdale springs forth on Arbor Day

Hillsdale is home to abundant healthy, large, and impressive old trees. To commemorate this important legacy and with an eye toward the future, the Hillsdale Environmental Commission reached out to local schools to undertake plantings in recognition of Arbor Day, celebrated nationally on April 28.

With the support of Hillsdaleʼs Department of Public Works, students observed a tree or shrub planting ceremony on school grounds at St. Johnʼs Academy and the Ann Blanche Smith School on Tuesday, April 26, and

at the Meadowbrook School on Friday, April 28.

Mayor John Ruocco attended the celebrations and planting ceremonies.

According to Hillsdale Environmental Commission chair Meredith Kates, George G. White Middle School did not participate this year over “uncertainties surrounding major replacement/renovation plans that could impact a planting at that location.”

Kates told Pascack Press that Arbor Day, first observed in 1872, can serve as an important and

practical educational event.“An abundance of trees helps to reduce the rapid runoff of stormwater, preserves water quality, reduces area noise, and contributes greatly

to Hillsdaleʼs ambiance and character.”

She said “The high-quality tree/shrub plantings were generously donated this year by family-

owned Victoriaʼs Nursery on Paramus Road in Paramus, open seven days a week and in business for over 40 years.”

With the support of Hillsdale’s Department of Public Works,students observed a tree or shrub planting ceremony on school grounds at St.John’s Academy and the Ann Blanche Smith School on Tuesday,April 26,and at the Meadowbrook School on Friday,April 28. Hillsdale Happenings

FROM PAGE 8

The writer mentioned that he was a longtime member of the American Legion.

On behalf of Post 153, I would like to express the fact that the views presented are not the views of our American Legion post. In fact this American Legion is prohibited from making political posts of any kind in the media.

Bob Oppelt, Commander American Legion Post 153

Zion Lutheran ECC shares the love

To the editor:

IT ISWITH extreme gratitude that I write this letter of thanks to the many sponsors, donors, and attendees of the 2023 Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center Tricky Tray & Auction 2023 fundraising event. Because of the philanthropic inclinations of our community at large, this was one of the biggest

and most successful fundraisers to date.

Center director Michele Meisten and the Fundraising Committee specifically thank our Gold Sponsors Hodges and Sons Plumbing and Heating and KB Electrical Services, Silver Sponsor BSA Troop 350, and Bronze Sponsors Joan M. Sobeck Christieʼs International, SeaCube Containers, William G. Basralian Funeral Home, Steve Sullivan Allstate Insurance, and Zion Lutheran Menʼs Club.

We are grateful to 12 Friends of Zion Sponsors and the more than 225 local businesses, members of Zion Lutheran Church, current and alumni school families, and members of the community who donated tricky tray and auction prizes in recognition of the mission of Zion Early Childhood Center to support our earliest learners as they grow spiritually, emotionally, physically, and socially.

Thank you to the members of the Church Administrative Board, particularly Carl Maul and his wife Carol Maul, and the school and church staff, particularly Pastor Pranschke and Center Director Mrs. Meisten and secretary Maryanne Hector who not only expertly guided the planning process, but put their trust in our committee to bring “Lights, Camera, Auction” to the halls of Zion Early Childhood Center.

Emcee and auctioneer Michael Meisten led the evening of 274 attendees in laughter and camaraderie as they bid on 403 tricky tray and 29 live auction prizes ranging from trips to Disney World and the Jersey shore, to live event tickets, rides to school on emergency vehicles, and baskets donated by each preschool class.

Thank you to Lucaʼs Gourmet Deli and Catering for the delicious buffet. Moreover, we thank all of our ticket holders for their attendance, enthusiasm, and generosity.

A final and sincere thank you goes to the members of the fundraising committee, particularly subcommittee chairs Elizabeth Amodeo, Lori Hrbek, Natalie Foy, and Linda Phayre.

We are grateful to all our sponsors, donors, and participants for your continued support and cannot wait for our next event!

PLANSAREWELL underway for this yearʼs Tri-Boro Memorial Day events. As in past years, observances start with a 9 a.m. service in the three towns followed by a parade originating in Montvale through Park Ridge and terminating in Woodcliff Lake. Weʼve written past participants to ask for confirmation that they are joining us on May 29. I ask those that have not replied to do so as soon as possible.

If additional groups would like to join us — we hope they will, as Memorial Day is a federal holiday for honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces — please email Cpl. Jedh C. Barker Memorial American Legion Post 153 at post153nj@hotmail.com and include your phone number.

anyone who had autism, which is a fairly recent change in our population, thus I was not alone in not knowing how to respond. My first time was when I was a substitute teacher and one of the new students had autism. No one prepared me, and I didnʼt know what to do; I had never heard of autism (in the early 1990s).

You raise an important point that we need to be educated, and most of all to be understanding and accepting.

Yes, we are all differently abled and talented. Iʼve known top executives, educators and leaders who canʼt do some basic skills others can do (they hope we donʼt find that out!) No one is talented in everything. When we donʼt understand, we can easily come to rash judgment and conclusion without finding all the facts.

Lauren

Letizia for the Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center Fundraising Committee

Join 2023

Memorial Day plans

To the editor:

Thank you, Commander Bob Oppelt American Legion Post 153

Great letter on autism acceptance

To the editor:

IAPPLAUD MR. Bradley Zysfainʼs letter to the editor, May 1, 2023, “We need autism acceptance.” It was insightful and enlightening. He gives us much food for thought, opening our eyes to break through our ignorance.

I did not grow up knowing

The television show “60 Minutes” did a wonderful segment on autism. It was mindblowing to me how much we need to capitalize on the talents of those who happen to have autism. What an elite group! We need to treasure the distinctive gifts they have to give us.

I ask Mr. Zysfain to continue to show us the way, to enlighten us how to respond appropriately, and how we may best be able to work together productively in tolerance and acceptance of all our differences.

A. Moore Westwood

Valley:

FROM PAGE 4

munity supporters and elected officials.

The program is co-directed by Rabbi Yosef and Estie Orenstein.

The five programs that make up the Teen Leadership Initiative are:

• Friendship Circle, Valley Chabadʼs original teen volunteer program, pairs teens with special needs children and their families for mutually enriching and fulfilling relationships.

• Linking Hearts provides the opportunity for middle school students to establish strong bonds with homebound seniors and nursing home residents.

• CTeen develops core values and volunteer leadership training

for older teens through education and community service in a fun and social environment.

• CTeen U is a series of classes dealing with ethics, philosophy, faith, history, community service and current events in a dynamic, relevant and interactive

discussion context.

• Eternal Flame examines the history of the Holocaust through a variety of media and personal narratives as well as Washington, D.C. trip, with the goal of inspiring teens to work toward the prevention of genocide in all its

locations and forms. A special focus is placed on confronting anti-Semitism and anti Israel bias.

Valley Chabad welcomes the entire community to celebrate the community service accomplishments of its teen leaders. Dinner tickets are $118, with a $54 price

for siblings and alumni. Teen volunteers are complementary. Reservation and ad journal forms are available on Valley Chabadʼs website, valleychabad.org/teengala, or call (201) 476-0157.

A previous year’s Valley Chabad Teen Gala.Valley Chabad’s five Teen Leadership Initiative programs draw from Pascack Valley and Saddle River communities. Valley Chabad photo.

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

PASCACK VALLEY

Hills-Valley Coalition Zooms May 8

The Hills-Valley Coalition says, “Please join us to discuss the safety of our children and how best to support our families here from our juvenile officers, school administrators, student representatives and local mental health providers. It takes a village can be

part of ours.”

The Hills-Valley Coalition virtual meeting is set for Monday, May 8 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. For the Zoom link, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9099516 173 Meeting ID is 9099516173.

Paying it forward

RIVER VALE

Girl Scout troop 94749 consists of three seniors from Pascack Valley High School — Nupur Karnik, Sarah Keppler, and Kyra Lin — who met months ago to discuss how they want to spend their last few months of their Girl Scout career, which they began in kindergarten. They agreed they wanted to give back to the community by hosting a Girl Scout Earth Day event for the townʼs younger troops and subsidize the cost with their earned troop funds.

After months of planning,

choosing crafts, marketing the event, budgeting, serving allergyfriendly foods, etc., the event took place on Earth Day, April 22.

Forty-eight girls were dropped off to learn about protecting the environment. They made four Earth-friendly crafts (planted herbs, made bird feeders, reconstructed used T-shirts into tote bags, painted flowers, had a pizza party, and watched the movie “The Lorax.”

The scouts thank event volunteers, troop leaders and moms who helped. Reports Robin Goldfarb, “A good time was had by all.”

Robin Goldfarb photo

From left to right: Girl ScoutsNupur Karnik,Sarah Keppler,and Kyra Lin are preparing to graduate Pascack Valley High School.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Knights go big with four $1Kscholarships

The scholarship committee of Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 will award another three scholarships from the James Picarella Memorial Trust Fund and one Mother Seton Scholarship. Each scholarship is for $1,000.

Applicants for the scholarships must be Township residents graduating high school this year.

Non-residents who have a father, brother, grandfather, or uncle as a member of Mother Seton Council #5427 in good standing for at least one year prior to the date of the application may also apply. Applications are available at the Westwood High School and Immaculate Heart Academy Guidance Offices, the school websites, and the Knights of Columbus Council. Completed

applications must be in a sealed envelope addressed to Mr. Paul Elterlein, Scholarship Chairman, Knights of Columbus, 79 Pascack Road, Twp. of Washington 07676, no later than May 15, 2023. The scholarships will be presented at the Awards Night Meeting, Tuesday, June 13. For more information call the council at (201) 664-0422.

Spring Fling Run/Walk 5K Sunday, May 21

The Township of River Vale, Fitness with Friends, and Run4Love host a Spring Fling Run/Walk 5K on Sunday, May 21.

This is a race for runners and

walkers of all ages and abilities. Registration begins at 8 a.m. at Mark Lane Sports Complex. Race time is at 9. Registrants get a commemorative T-shirt. Prizes are

awarded to top male, female, and child. Proceeds will be donated to the Helping Hand Food Pantry. To register, visit fitnesswithfriends.net/5kfunrunwalk.

DoDentalImplantsLastaLifetime?

Implant dentistry has been practiced by periodontists and oral surgeons since the 1970s. There is over 50 years of research proving that dental implants are a predictable long-term option when placed by an experienced

surgeon. In fact, the data shows a lifetime success rate of over 98%!

Dental Implants are a Science, not a Technique

It takes years of academic training and practice to master and achieve this skill – and this level of success. Recently, more general dentists are offering to surgically place dental implants. However, their training is typically in the range of 40-100 hours of coursework, compared to the three-year, full-time residency which is required to be a Board-Certified Periodontist & Dental Implant Surgeon. This is one reason why the American Dental Academy (ADA) stipulates that only periodontists (not even oral surgeons) can call themselves dental implant surgeons.

There are a number of other reasons why it is important to choose a periodontist for your treatment – all of which involve maintaining the health of your implants. Periodontists focus on the gum and bone surrounding your teeth and implants. We also learn fullmouth treatment planning with the capability of saving your teeth, not just replacing them. Unlike any other fields in dentistry, a periodontist can regenerate gum and bone on your teeth and implants. This allows us save teeth ailing from a bad bite and gum disease. Our surgical skill within the mouth is unparalleled. An oral surgeon is a maxillofacial specialist whose training is focused outside the oral cavity, on the maxilla mandible spaces. This is why they are the right choice for buried wisdom teeth extractions.

Another reason for our success rate is that periodontists support the long-term health of the implants we place with strong hygiene practices.

We not only surgically place the implant, but we monitor and follow up with the treatments during your routine cleanings on an annual or biannual basis. This allows us to diagnosis and treat any implant problems, regardless of their complexity. Oral surgeons do not provide this service and cannot monitor your treatments in the future.

Are Dental Implants Worth the Expense?

Costs vary depending on the number of implants, the type of prosthesis and bone grafting. In addition, there is as much range in the cost of dental implants as there is in the quality. Proven and predictable treatment outcomes involve the use of dental implants from manufacturers that have perfected the design based on decades of research involving thousands of their implants.

Less expensive implant options often lack proper research and follow up. Many of these companies target general dentists to do short training programs in order to sell their implants to them. Unfortunately, while cheaper implants do create a range in the cost, the patient assumes the risks in order for a general dentist to provide a service for a couple of hundred dollars less.

When it comes to making a decision about dental implants, I advise my patients not to compromise on the quality. Keep in mind that you are considering a treatment that should last a lifetime, so it is more important to take into account the value. While dental implants may be more costly than options such as removable dentures, the long-term value makes them a great financial investment.

For more information, call (201) 664-3023 or visit their office at 354 Old Hook Road #201 or WestwoodPeriodontics.com.

PRIYU GUPTA, DDS, WESTWOOD PERIODONTICS

First Congregational, United Church of Christ at 131 Pascack Road in Park Ridge is having its annual plant sale behind the church on Saturday, May 13. There will be a large selection of organic vegetable and herb plants at reasonable

prices. The hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. so come early for the best selection.

The Just World Team will also be selling packets of wildflowers to help in restoring Godʼs earth.

If you lack space to garden, the

50+CLUBSPEAKERON SENIORFRAUD

The Hillsdale 50+ Club says that at its meeting of Thursday, May 11, a representative from Columbia Bank in Westwood will shar information on preventing senior fraud. All are invited. The Hillsdale 50+ Club invites all to

gather to meet neighbors and friends. The club meets at 11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at the United Methodist Church, on Magnolia Avenue between Hillsdale and Washington avenues.

churchʼs Community Garden is the way to go! Raised beds are available to purchase for $25 each for one growing season so you can try out organically growing your own

produce. Water is provided as is an area for composting. The fee helps to pay for water usage and maintenance of the garden.

Many of the gardeners donate

some of their harvest to the TriBoro Food Pantry.

For more information call the church at (201) 391-5800 or visit congregationalchurch.net.

•

•

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•

Friedlander leverages Troop 80 doers to help pack pantry

Brian Friedlander has been involved in the Boy Scouts since he was 7 years old. At 11 he graduated from the Cub Scouts to the Boy Scouts. In Park Ridge, this is Troop # 80. Since then heʼs been working his way through all seven ranks, to the ultimate, Eagle Scout, which only 10% of all Boy Scouts attain.

The Eagle Scout must complete 21 merit badges, including these 14 required merit badges: First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in Society, Citizenship in the World, Communication, Cooking, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving, Environmental Science or Sustainability, Personal Management, Swimming or Hiking or Cycling, Camping, and Family Life.

Seven additional merit badges of the scoutʼs choice are also required.

At the heart of this rank is the Eagle Scout Service Project, which requires much planning and dedication. It starts with finding a

beneficiary, figuring out needs, outlining goals, and signing a contract.

Troop 80 has had five scouts, including Brian, complete their Eagle Projects in the past year and achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

In Brianʼs case, the beneficiary is the Tri-Boro Food Pantry, in Park Ridge. Always in need of assistance and facing rising

demand, the pantry needed several items:

•A food donation bin for outside the pantry was necessary for donation drop-offs and to protect those donations from local animals.

•An additional donation bin was needed inside Borough Hall, which also receives donation drop-offs.

•As many people wait outside the pantry for it to open and have nowhere to sit, a bench was needed.

• Rounding it all out, Brian completed a food drive.

Now that the goals were outlined, Brian created a budget and needed to figure out how much money he needed to complete the

task. He organized a car wash at American Legion Post 153, complete with promotion on social media, email newsletters and word of mouth.

On Sunday, Sept. 18, 2022, Brian and many volunteers from Troop 80 and the community washed approximately 60 cars and raised more than $1,138. Even members of the townʼs police department came by to have three of their police SUVʼs washed.

Now that the fundraising was knocked out, Brian had to purchase needed items. These were two donation bins that were assembled from pre-made kits. Then, the bench was going to be assembled from scratch. Once he chose a building plan, wood,

screws and nails were purchased. Under adult supervision, he then cut the wood to his needed specifications.

All of these were assembled by the members of Troop 80. Then, the scouts gave each of the three items two coats of polyurethane to protect them from the elements. This was completed over the course of five work sessions.

Finally, Brian ran a local food drive in all three of Park Ridgeʼs schools as well as in ShopRite in Hillsdale. This lasted for two weeks. Brian also accepted donations from the town community and friends to contribute to the collection effort. In total,

CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

Park Ridge Troop 80 scoutBrian Friedlanderhas been nominated for the Order of the Arrow.

Troop 80 saw five scouts,including Brian Friedlander,complete their Eagle Projects in the past year and attain the rank of Eagle Scout.Friedlander’s project benefits Tri-Boro Food Pantry.From left to right:Park Ridge councilmember Gregory Hoffman,Ryan Widmer,JP Widmer,Bennett Cole,Jay Kamath,Brian Friedlander,Dean Rehak,Matthew Carlin, and Council President William Fenwick. Chris Friedlander photos.

Budget:

FROM PAGE 7

wood — as a possible way to lower local taxpayersʼregional school taxes, which are based on a state equalization formula.

Over the last decade, the township has paid 3% to 4% more in annual school taxes. Soon, the Township Council is expected to consider several property revaluation/assessment options that will bring local properties closer to full market value.

Tax assessor Sarah Holbig said township properties are assessed at less than 80% of market value, which generally means a property revaluation or reassessment is needed. Officials estimated it had been at least a decade since a full property reassessment occurred in the township. Holbig is also Westwoodʼs tax assessor.

A district chart showed other revenue sources including: state aid of $3,630,734, about 5%; a

capital reserve withdrawal, $3,970,000, 5.4%; and state and federal grants, $1,455,445, or 1.98%.

A graphic presented by Rosado showed instruction costs and employee benefits totaled almost $37.5 million out of the $73.5 million budget, or about 51%.

In addition to instruction costs, a breakdown showed: instructional support services, $10,544,077; plant operation and maintenance, $5,987,985; Capital - Construction Projects, $5.114.855; administration and support services, $5,418,004; and out of district tuition, $3,048,164.

Other cost categories included: transportation, $2,267,426; debt service, $1,777,550; state and federal grants, $1,455,445; and capital equipment, $388,900.

According to Rosado, the 2023-2024 budget funds:

•Self-contained special education programs, plus an additional level at the middle school

•Extracurricular and athletic Programs, including new K-5 math textbooks

•Responsive Classrooms in Grades K to 8

• Updates of K-12 Digital Media, Math & ELA Curriculum

• Current staffing levels in all academic areas

•Added staffing in elementary (3): a teacher of academic support, in-class support, and a half-time PE teacher and half-time guidance teacher

• Added staffing in middle school (4): a teacher of autism and 3 paraprofessionals

• Added a director of Student Support Personnel Services

Other areas included Facilities: Continue maintenance and upgrades to existing facilities along with additional capital projects: replacement of heating ventilators to HVAC systems at Berke-

ley, Brookside, George, Washington; WRMS field upgrade; resurfacing of driveways and parking lots; and asbestos abatement and facility bathroom renovations.

Moreover, safety and security is included, such as maintaining six Class III police officers, and upgrades to cameras and servers.

Hillsdale Recreation is looking for participants for the Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 29. Examples include: Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, children with patriotic bike and wagon decorations, sports asso-

ciations, owners of exotic or classic cars, homemade floats, and town and school clubs. Email Patty Hughes at phughes@hillsdalenj.org by May 12 if you are interested in participating.

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

Knitters and crocheters of all ages are called to raise their needles and join the Westwood “Yarn Bomb Squad.” Instigating joy throughout the community, unexpected pop-ups of knitted color and creativity will be found in various locations in downtown Westwood this summer.

“Yarn bombing” has grown in popularity over the years as a guerilla art form known for beautifying forgotten, overlooked outdoor spaces with colorful, textured art that canʼt help but bring smiles and joy to those who come across its bright installations.

The Westwood “Yarn Bomb Squad” is looking to color the community with summer-themed knitting — from flowers, vines and leaves to fruit and veggies, from butterflies, bees and ladybugs to rainbows, tassels and pompoms — with the goal of unveiling installations by the summer solstice on June 21.

Throughout May, volunteers can connect and create pieces together at the Westwood Free Public Library each Tuesday at 7 p.m. All skills and ages are welcomed. Whether made at the library, church groups, troop meetings, art class, or home, all

donated creations can be dropped off at the Westwood Free Public Library circulation desk from May 1 to June 1.

“I am so inspired by the creativity and talent within our community, and even more so, by the shared desire of so many to spread joy in big and simple ways,” said Heather OʼHara, joy instigator at Westwood Arts Hub. “This summer, weʼre excited to celebrate Westwood with a multi-generational communal effort, and together transform the unexpected or overlooked into something soft, colorful and bright. And as visitors come to Westwood for our many summer events and activities, our hope is the joy we spark here can spread to other communities throughout Bergen County.”

Follow @celebratewestwood on socials or visit celebratewestwood.org/yarn-bombing for more information.

GROWING IDEAS

PARKRIDGE

Outdoor planting season is a few weeks away. At its April 18 meeting, the Golden Age Social Club of Park Ridge was treated to an informative slide presentation — by master gardener Lynne Proskow, who is shown here with Golden Age Social Club president Bill Hennig — on container gardening of flowers and vegetables. Proskow displayed a variety of appropriate containers and distributed leaflets.

Park Ridge seniors can join the club for Tuesday meetings at the Elks lodge on Sulak Lane. For more information, call Hennig at (201) 391-8318.

Nancy Frankel photo

Thoughts on school board drama

To the editor:

IWANTEDTO write in considering all the press around the [Westwood] school board and last Thursdayʼs meeting and all the drama.

School boards right now and what is happening in schools is one of the largest issues around the country. This is for good reason as well. No matter what side you are on, the left or the right, what is being taught to our children will define the future of this country.

What I have found lately that is truly appalling includes a mob of social injustice warriors screaming at board meetings. For my part, we must always welcome opposing points of view. What we shouldnʼt tolerate is treating our neighbors (even if you disagree with them) with such incredible abuse.

You can have differing points of view without attacking. Itʼs really the only way to solve anything

and make things better for everyone. The people who came, they didnʼt want that. What they wanted was to control, silence and scare others for control. Bully tactics.

I heard audience members scream on more than one occasion that this board has made a circus, yet I donʼt see anyone on the board screaming and yelling and acting like a circus. The mob screamed for consideration and respect, but almost none behaved respectfully. I saw them demand to be listened to, but when another audience member gave a different point of view, they booed that person. I heard them yell about what is being taught to children, and then encourage disrespectful conduct from kids in attendance. I saw them claim they were under attack, but they were the ones attacking, and often personally, members of the board.

No board gets everything right. The previous boards (including those who signed the letter you published a couple weeks ago) didnʼt get everything right, either. What we have now is what we had before, a group of people, your neighbors, giving up a tremendous amount of their time, their effort, their lives, to help our community. Whether you like what they're doing or not, they represent our community. At a minimum, the community mem-

bers who showed up to express their concerns can and should represent their causes and issues calmly and courteously.

I have news for those of you engaged in the cancel culture tactics at the last board meeting. People donʼt take you seriously. As a matter of fact, you get the opposite from your community. You just look like a pack of bullies who have no other source of self-confidence other than attacking a bunch of people who you know canʼt say anything back to you. Youʼre not making the board look small, despite the press. You look small. And nuts. There are a lot of us in the community that donʼt like what you do. And please stop claiming you represent everyone. You donʼt. Certainly not like that.

If you want to be taken seriously, then act like adults. Be the role model for your children in how to have effective dialogue between two points of opposing views so that they can communicate and push for effective change.

Sharon Boccellari Westwood

To the editor: W ESTWOOD REGIONAL High S choolʼs Academic Decathlon Team (WACADECA) competed in the nationals in Texas over the weekend. They did outstanding! We finished eighth out of 28 schools in Division IV.

Our students earned 11 medals, a plaque, and $1,000 in scholarships.

Standout performances by:

•Aaron Zeiler: Team high scorer, silver in music, bronze in

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

Front to back,left to right: James Thomas (WACADECA coach/advisor), Amelia Adler,Allaine Lara,Ashley Molina,Aaron Zeiler,Nicholas Kawasaki, Graham Beyer,Adriana Dunay,and Daniel Shotkin. Via Frank Connelly

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

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

E EMMEERRSSOON N

20 Palisade Ave. (201) 261-5604 emersonlibrary.org

•Monday, May 8 at 3:30 p.m.: Afternoon Storytime, ages 2–5. Registration recommended. At 1 and 3 p.m.: Knitters Circle for adults. Register.

• Tuesday, May 9 at 3:30 p.m.: Switch Club, grades 2-4. Register each child per date. At 11 a.m.: Baby and Me. At 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga, adults. Register. At 6:30 p.m.: This and That Book Club, adults; register.

• Wednesday, May 10 at 10:30 a.m.: Preschool Storytime and Crafts. Register.

• Thursday, May 11 at 10:30 a.m.: Sensory Storytime, ages 2–5; register.

•Friday , May 12 at 1 p.m.: Move, Learn and Grow, ages 2–5 ; register.

• Saturday, May 13 at noon

Motherʼs Day Tea Party, ages 3–10; register.

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

• Monday, May 8 at 12:30

p.m.: Monday Book Club. At 7

p.m.: Adult Coloring; register.

• Tuesday, May 9, at 1 p.m.: MahJong. At 10 a.m.: Knitting for Beginners. Register. At 4 p.m.: Bookworms Childrenʼs Book Club. At 7 p.m.: Scrabble Club; register. At 7 p.m.: Meditation with Cherlyn. Register.

• Wednesday, May 10 at 3 p.m.: Think it, Make it, Share it! Woven Yarn Butterflies. Register.

• Thursday, May 11 at noon:

Living with Alzheimerʼs For Caregivers part 2. Register.

• Friday, May 12 at 10:30 a.m.: Chair Yoga. Registration recommended.

M MOON

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

•Monday, May 8 at 7 p.m.: Virtual Guided Meditation Register.

• Thursday, May 11 at 10:30 a.m: Yoga Littles Storytime;register. At 7 p.m.: Memories of Bergen County Landmarks; register.

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

•Monday, May 8 at 11:30 a.m.: Yoga.

• Tuesday, May 9 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee

• Thursday, May 11 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee

• Friday, May 12 at 10 a.m.:

Virtual Crafts with Miss Renee.

• Saturday, May 13 at 10 a.m.: Virtual Storytime with Miss Eileen

R RIIVVEER R V VAALLE E

412 Rivervale Road (201) 391-2323

rivervalelibrary.org

•Monday, May 8 at 10 a.m.: Pre-K Story Time, register. At 4 p.m.: Motherʼs Day Cards : Grades K–5. Register.

• Tuesday, May 9 at 1 p.m.: Movie Matinee: “Confess, Fletch.”

• Wednesday, May 10 at 10 a.m.: Baby Time. At 10:30 a.m.: Meet and Play: Ages 0–3 with parent or caregiver. Register. At 1:30 p.m.: Alphabet Story Time:Ages 3–5. Register. At 4 p.m.: Tweens and Teens Craft: Motherʼs Day Mugs, 4th grade and up. Register. At 6:50 p.m.: Friends of the Library Book Group.

• Thursday, May 11 at 10 a.m.: Movie Club: Register. At 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga. Doors

CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

VFW $20K gift honors Kohlreiter

At the Westwood Board of Education meeting on April 27, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6192 in Washington Township presented a $20,000 donation to Frank Connelly, principal of Westwood Regional High School.

The donation will be used to purchase and install a greenhouse at the high school to support the science department and environmental education in the district.

The generous donation was made in memory of Steven H. Kohlreiter, a longtime commander of VFW Post 6192, who died on March 29.

Left to right: Patricia Kohlreiter, Jeff Siconolfi,Frank Connolly,Tom Sears,and Steve Kalish

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

FROM PAGE 25

economics; silver in science, and silver in social science

•Daniel Shotkin: Team M VP, gold in social science, bronze in speech, gold in essay, and third overall in his division (earned plaque and scholarship).

•Ashley Molina: Silver in speech.

• Nicholas Kawasaki: Silver in economics, silver in social science, bronze in essay

Of all 55 teams (including national champions) we were 21st — and the highest scoring New Jersey team.

The kids made friends from Alaska, Chicago, Boston, Iowa, Colorado, California, and other places.

Thank you, Mr. James Thomas (advisor), for guiding our students and for giving them this amazing opportunity, which they will remember for the rest of their lives. The entire community is

proud of all of you! Go Cards!

Principal Frank Connelly, Westwood Regional High School

Editorʼs note: According to WACADECA advisor James Thomas — who teaches mathematics and also advises Westwood Regional High Schoolʼs M ath Honor Society — WACADECA won its region for the first time, came in second in the state (medium size school champion) and qualified to participate in the national competition in Texas at the end of April. Congratulations to all!

Huge thanks on BBQ, Bourbon & Bubbles

To the editor:

FRIENDSOF the Westwood Library thank our many sponsors and individuals who made

our BBQ, Bourbon & Bubbles a huge success. More than 150 guests sampled cask-strength Bourbon, craft beer, fine champagne and wines, delicious tastings from five ofthe areaʼs best r estaurants accompanied by acoustic guitar and vocals by Westwoodʼs own Ed Sroczynski, a book signing by Robin Robinson, renowned expert on all things whiskey, and good company.

A ll of this came together inside the library on a clear and

delightful April 19 evening. This event was made possible by the generous contributions of Westwoodʼs finest restaurants and foodie destinations, as well as the work of many hands, and the support of our sponsors. Signature dishes were beautifully prepared by chefs Robert Cho of Kimchi Smoke BBQ, who served his award-winning Pastrami; Jule H azouof Bourbon Street Beignet, who treated guests with his pastries and beignets; Mezza,

who prepared their hummus and pita bread along with matbucha, a delicious Moroccan tomato spread;The Iron Horse restaurant, supporting our event for the 15th year with coleslaw and p ickles, pinwheel sandwiches from Flynnʼs Deli accompanied with small batch gourmet coffee f rom Sogno Coffeehouse. Desserts were topped off with candy by Kimberly Smith from Westwood Candy Company.

The event featured tastings from Five Dimes Brewery, which brought craft pilsners and IPA as well as hard seltzer; Super Cellars and Gallo distributors added a J Vineyard Cuvee 20 Champagne as well as William Hill Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Caffe Anello poured tastings of their small-batch single-barrel Kentucky straight bourbon and received raves from all those who tried it.

We also thank our lead sponsor, Visions Federal Credit Union, and sponsors Becker Funeral Home, Edward Jones

CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

“At Giulioʼs, we only use the freshest ingredients in our homemade dishes. Featuring contemporary Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, we strive to please every palate.”

Owner Beni Qosja opened Giulioʼs Restaurant in 2022. Housed in a beautiful, romantic, Queen Anne Victorian in Historic Tappan, N.Y., just minutes from Bergen County, Giulioʼs Restaur ant offers contemporary Italian cuisine.

Built in 1880 by the Smith family, the rooms are adorned with carved woodwork and large beveled glass windows that make you feel like you stepped into another era. The warm and inviting fireplaces in the Main Dining Room and Oak Room beckon guests to enjoy a fine glass of wine and a delicious meal.

Beni brings more than 25 years of culinary experience to Giulioʼs Restaurant. Formerly of Vicolo of Old Tappan, Il Vicolo

of Livingston and current owner of Limoncello in Waldwick, the years of world class experience a nd passion for culinary creations is evident in each and every of his signature dishes.

G iulioʼs Restaurant creates contemporary dishes with only the finest and freshest ingredients. Visit for a drink in the fulls ervice bar, a casual meal by the fireplace, or to celebrate your life's most memorable events in o ne of the private dining rooms.

Formerly Giulioʼs of Tappan, the new Giulioʼs Restaurant offers guests a fresh experience with an updated d é cor and menu in a warm, romantic setting.

When you go…

Giulioʼs Restaurant

154 Washington Street Tappan, N.Y. 845-359-3657

See website for hours: www.giuliosrestaurant.com

Hillsdaleʼs annual Memorial Day ceremony is Monday, May 29 at 9:30 a.m. in Veterans Park. The ceremony, which honors those who gave their lives in military service, is led by American Legion Post 162.

The day starts with a pancake breakfast, hosted by Boy Scout Troop 109, at 7 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church.

This yearʼs parade theme is “Proud to be an American,” which also is the theme for the essay contest for local schools. Winners of the essay contest will read their essays as part of the ceremony.

The public is encouraged to attend the ceremony to recognize and honor the 19 Hillsdale residents who made the ultimate sacrifice.

This yearʼs grand marshal is Legionnaire Guido Borella, who served in the U.S. Army with the A Company 119th Armored Engineer Battalion, 12th Armored Division

during World War II. Guido was wounded in combat and received, among other medals, the Purple Heart. As a combat engineer, Guido built the Bailey bridges that allowed our army to cross rivers where bridges were destroyed by the retreating Nazis. Guido, who turned 100 years old this past year, is a long-time resident of Hillsdale.

Deputy grand marshal is Legionnaire Bob Abaddie, who served with the U.S. Army in Korea during the Korean war. Bob holds the Combat Infantry Badge for his service on the front lines of the war. He will serve as grand marshal next year.

Following the ceremony, the annual parade steps off around 10:30 a.m. in front of George White School and travels to Veterans Park.

Please join in the dayʼs activities to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Sometimes even good people get into bad trouble...a mistake in judgement...a careless moment...an act out of desperation, and before you know it you find yourself with serious legal problems. This can be frightening for most of us. One thing for sure...those problems won’t go away by themselves, and without proper legal representation they may even get worse.

Our attorneys handle situations like yours on a daily basis and are prepared to help you get the best possible results whether you are faced with a civil matter, a criminal matter or whether you are trying to have an earlier charge, arrest or conviction expunged.

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

Westwood Woman’s Club scholarship

The Westwood Womanʼs Club is offering a scholarship to a graduating high school student. The scholarship is open to all female graduating seniors residing in Westwood or the Township of

Washington, regardless of which high school they attend.

The student must plan to further her education or career training in the fall, and must complete the application and send it to the

Womanʼs Club of Westwood, 205 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675, attention: Scholarship Committee. Applications must be received by May 9, 2023 to be considered.

The Westwood Womanʼs Club tells Pascack Press, “As a service organization, we will be looking for the student who demonstrates community service, volunteerism, citizenship, aca-

demic accomplishments and financial need. Applications are available in the high school guidance offices or by emailing westwoodwomansclub@gmail.com for an electronic copy.”

Spring rec classes and programs

River Vale, sign up today so you and your family can enjoy the beautiful weather!

• Pickleball – The two new pickleball courts at the Mark Lane Field Complex opened to River Vale residents and non-residents in fall 2022. This month a security system was implemented to protect the courts from damage. The pickleball courts are available for use on a first-come, first- served basis from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Starting May 15, a key fob will be required for access. Registration is required. Details and form are available at

Town Hall and at rivervalenj.org

• Girls Field Hockey — A two-week clinic, starting April 22, is open to residents of River Vale and Hillsdale and is focused on introducing field hockey to girls in grades K-5. All skill levels are welcome. Registration extended through April 12.

• Spring Fling 5K Run/Walk — Sunday, May 21 at 9 a.m. starting at the Mark Lane Sports Complex. Registration is open. Proceeds benefit the Helping Hand Food Pantry.

• Fitness With Friends

Registration is open for indoor and

outdoor fitness and dance classes for adults and children. Walk in classes are available. Held at the River Vale Community Center and on River Vale fields.

• USA Sport Group Registration is underway for a variety of kidsʼsports clinics and camps in River Vale starting soon.

• Senior Fitness — Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:30 to 1:15 pm and Monday evenings weekly at the Senior/Community Center. $48 for eight classes. No online registration required. Classes are ongoing. Payment in advance to River Vale Town Hall, 406 Rivervale Road.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

FROM PAGE 26

open 15 minutes prior to scheduled class time. River Vale residents receive priority. Seating is limited.

• Friday, May 12 at 10 a.m.: Knit and Crochet Group. At 1 p.m.: Afternoon Mah Jongg Club.

• Saturday, May 13 at 11 a.m.: Buck-a-Bag Book Sale

SHHIINNGGTTOON N

144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586

twpofwashingtonpl.org

• Weekly Story Times to May 19. Register.

• Monday, May 8 at 5:30 p.m.: Cartooning with Mr. John, grades 3–5.; register. Also: Spice Kit Pickups. At 1 or 6:45 p.m.: Fentanyl DEA Agent Talk Register for an informative program on the Fentanyl crisis in our country with DEA agent Richard Grosfelt.

• Tuesday, May 9 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.: Coffee With a Cop

At 3:45 p.m.: Fun and Fiona, grades 6–12. Meet our therapy dog, Fiona: hugs, fun, snacks, and games. At 5:30 p.m.: Adult Yoga open to all levels of practice. Bring your own mat and any props you may need, such as blocks, straps, or bolster blankets. $5 per class. Drop in. At 6 p.m.: Teen Tuesday Hang Out open for crafting; grades 6–12. Plenty of supplies to craft whatever youʼd like; snacks.

• Wednesday, May 10 at 1 p.m.: Tarot for Mindfulness. Join community member Dorrey Bischoff to learn how to use tarot cards to gain access to and reconnect with yourself as a form of self care. A mindfulness meditation is included in each workshop session. You may also join our second workshop to add on to what you learn in the first (Wednesday, May 17 at 6 p.m.) Register. At 4 p.m.: Bergen County Zoo Animal Classification; grades 1–5. Learn

how to distinguish animals based on their classifications. Animal visitors will be present. Register.

• Thursday, May 11 from 6 to 7 p.m.: Social Stitching. Drop in.

• Friday, May 12 at 1 p.m.: Adult Coloring and Craft Group;refreshments.

• Saturday, May 13 at 10:30 a.m.: Family Story Time. Meet new people and make a craft with your child. Register.

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

• Monday, May 8 at 7 p.m.:

LVPV ESL Class, beginner.

• Tuesday, May 9 at 9 a.m.:

LVPV ESL Online Class , advanced. At 11 a.m or 7 p.m.: LVPV ESL Online Class, intermediate. At 3:45 p.m.: Big Feet the Dinosaur Puppet Show: Age 4 to grade 5. At 7 p.m.: Knitting and Crocheting, upstairs.

• Wednesday, May 10 at

10:30 a.m.: Peek-a-Book Story

Time . Register. At 3:45 p.m.: Healthy Spring Snack: (grades 6–12) upstairs.

• Thursday, May 11 at 9 a.m.:

LVPV ESL Online Class , advanced. Register. At 11 a.m.:

LVPV ESL Online Class, intermediate . At 3:45 p.m.: Anime Club (grades 6–12) upstairs.

• Friday, May 12 at 10:30

a.m.: Summer Series Music and Movement: Explorerʼs Playgroup

WESTWOOD

(to age 5). At 11 a.m.: Knitting and Crocheting Club. Register. At 3:45 p.m.: Motherʼs Day Craft & Card (grades K–5) upstairs.

• Saturday, May 13 at 10 a.m.: Friends of the Library Giant Book Sale At 10 a.m.: Westwood Garden Club Spring Plant Sale (outside).

• Sunday, May 14 at 11 a.m.: Gardening Time (outside).

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP MEETS MAY 9

The Westwood Senior Fellowship next meets on Tuesday, May 9. The doors open at 11 a.m. for anyone having their blood pressure taken. “Join us for

refreshments and social hour. Donʼt forget to sign up for our luncheon at Domaniʼs restaurant, Hillsdale, on Tuesday, June 13 at noon. The cost is $40 per person.”

ADVERTISEYOURSERVICEINTHE SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS.

Solidarity:

FROM PAGE 1

letter decrying “legal, ethical, practical and educational concerns” about his board.

Approximately 50 speakers including parents, students and teachers — over a five-hour meeting April 27 urged Westwood Regional School trustees to accept and support LGBTQ individuals and not form a board committee to examine state-mandated standards and the local curriculum being used to

implement Comprehensive Health and Physical Education standards.

In August 2021, the board unanimously approved a revised elementary school curriculum to conform with the new New Jersey Student Learning Standards, including Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

In August 2022, the board approved, 5-4, a revised middle school curriculum to the same effect.

At their March meeting, new board president Pontillo, Westwoodʼs chief of police, called for an ad hoc committee to explore socalled “unknowns,” including what might happen if the district decides

to reverse course over the update.

The controversy was sparked by board comments made on March 20 suggesting it appeared a teacher may have been “going rogue” in introducing content about two mommies and two daddies in a discussion of families.

Later in that meeting, trustees discussed their concerns about the state health curriculum, and plans to form the ad hoc committee.

In response to the board comments, 14 former district board members wrote to the board and to Pascack Press slamming comments March 20 “where a conversation centered around the matter of one or more teachers speaking in the classroom on the topic of families including two mommies and two daddies in their daily lesson plans, only to be characterized during board discussion as ʻgoing rogueʼon a ʻsensitive topicʼ.”

[See Letters, “Former BOE members on boardʼs duty,” April 17, 2023.]

Dozens of Westwood Education Association members were in the audience April 27, dressed in Westwood Cardinal-red. Its presi-

The Westwood Education Association and allied families and students win an apology from Westwood school board president Michael Pontillo on April 27 at the high school’s Campbell Auditorium over allegations from the dais March 20 over a teacher’s discussion of diversity in families.Pontillo also named an adhoc committee to look anew at the board’s policy over conforming to state health and sexual education curriculum mandates. Westwood Education Association on Facebook.

dent, Christopher Pinto, issued a statement outlining their concerns:

“Last month, (March 20) an absolutely and unequivocally false narrative was created by members of this board, accompanied by an attack and unfounded accusations levied against our members,” Pinto said.

He said, “This attack involved

an accusation that our elementary health and physical education teachers have created their own lessons about different types of family structures. Let me be clear: No curriculum was modified or added.” He said, “At root of the issue is the third-grade health curriculum, which uses an educator- and

CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

Letters:

FROM PAGE 27

Financial, Columbia Bank, and Johl & Co. Together they provide the funds to make this happen.

The generous donations of gift cards and silent auction donations from the following individuals, businesses and restaurants: Peter Grefrath, the Dicuffa family, American Woman, B&S Kitchen, Broadway Pizza, Conradʼs, Cornerstone, Curbside Confections, Dog Grooming by Diane, Domani, Edible Arrangements, Eiseleʼs Nursery, European Wax Center, Fireshaper Yoga, Gamezone, The Gem Mine, Goldbergʼs Famous Bagels, Granita Grill, Huntington Learning Center, Karl Ehmer Meats, Kenʼs Deli, Kings Food Markets, Laporeʼs Italian Market, Lisa Thomas Salon, Marsalaʼs Hardware, Metropolitan Plant and Flower Exchange, Moon House Yoga, Nail Show, NY Giants, NY Jets, NY Rangers, Playa Bowls, Pompilioʼs Pizzeria,

The Rolling Pin Cafe, Rutgers Athletics, Shortrounds Grab and Go Market, Tapestrie, Tons of Toys, Trader Joeʼs, Wawa, Wegmans, Westwood Pets, and Westwood Prime Meats, and Anne Williams. Deb Centore, who donated handmade custom pouches, and Joey Drew and George Mulhauser for the waterlily mirror and chair

Richard Frant provided photography for the evening. More of his photos may be seen at frantvisuals.com

Lastly, it was the tireless efforts of the dedicated staff and volunteers of the Westwood Library working since January to make this one evening so memorable. Thanks to Friends members Shannon Duffy Wierer, Barbara Albrecht, Carmela Stark, Linda Wei, John Fiorino, Annelie Foster, Juliette and Bob Siobon, and Rick and Michelle Antonick for their contributions and for making the night so memorable. Invaluable assistance was provided by Lou Trivisone, Susan and Tom Hardin, and Rich Gorham. Lore Fitzsimmons created beautiful floral

arrangements of spring flowers for the tables.

We have learned that food and drink bring people together, and we thank the chefs and businesses for bringing the community together. Our library is the heart and soul of our community, and you only need to stop by to see what vital services are offered for free here every day. ESL and programs for children, adults and seniors are just thebeginning of the benefitsthat have a profound and long-term effect on our community. We thank you all for your continued and generous support, Martha Urbiel, Mike Fitzsimmons, Mike Violano, and Suzanne Gorham

Friends of the Library Event Committee

Mother’s Day ideas and love

To the editor:

MOTHERʼS DAY is coming up and itʼs an important holiday. Moms are caregivers: They support their children and make them feel loved and safe. Because moms are so special, make sure you spend time with yours, if you can, on Sunday, May 14.

Motherʼs Day is not about money, itʼs about spending time with family, not about buying the most expensive things.

These are some of my suggestions of activities for Motherʼs Day: Take your mom on a weekend trip, visit a local zoo or park, go out for dinner, visit other f amily members, make her breakfast in bed, give

her hugs and kisses, make her a special dessert, go to the spa, walk at a nature center, go on a Motherʼs Day brunch and dinner cruise, hike at the Ramapo reservation, visit Jenkinsonʼs Boardwalk, attend a Shabbat [or other meaningful] service.

Motherʼs Day can be difficult for people who lost their mom, so it might be special to gather with family and share stories or memories about their mom, look at old pictures, plant a special garden, or do an activity that you did with your mom when she was alive. I hope you have a good Motherʼs Day.

Mitchell McGraw Woodcliff Lake

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Suggestions, offers on depression, anxiety

ulated.The best way to help reduce it is to relax the brain. The most common stimulants are in beverages like coffee, tea, soda, juice, energy drinks, sports drinks, carbonated drinks, shakes, sugar-free drinks, milk, lemonade, and smoothies. The only healthy drink is water, but not carbonated water, smart water, or coconut water. A better option is to add a touch of pink himalayan salt and squeeze some organic lemon,

lime, cucumber, or oranges in the water, or even heat it up and flavor it with some ginger, cinnamon, apple slices, or mint leaves.

Sugar and sugar replacements such as honey, syrup, stevia, high fructose corn syrup, sucralose, maltose, agave, corn syrup, corn fructose, xylitol, rice syrup, and many other sweeteners are all stimulants.

Shop on the outside of the supermarket. That is where you will find all your fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, eggs, poultry, fish, and meat. Stay away from all the products in the aisles where food is stored in bags, cans, boxes, and containers.

Eating or drinking at night will stimulate cortisol which is the stress hormone and will increase anxiety and disrupt your sleep.

A very important tip to reduce depression is taking vitamin D. The first seven people that call my office at (201) 261-2150 will get a free vitamin D bottle, a free signed book (“Boost Your Brain Power: A guide to improving your memory and focus”) as well as a complete neurological evaluation at my office for only $21 (normally $500). This evaluation will help get to the root cause of your depression or anxiety and we will come up with natural solutions that do not have risks like certain medications.

Set up your daily schedule to include your health. Every night before bedtime, say three things you are grateful to have in your life right now. When you wake up, it is best to have a “Health Power Hour.” Start with a simple stretching routine. Then, wash your face with cold water for 30 seconds.

Next, swish coconut oil around in your mouth for 30 seconds to help kill off bacteria and viruses and then spit it all out. After that, drink a 12ounce glass of warm lemon water.

Read positive quotes or inspirational passages. Meditate for 10 minutes. Partake in physical exercise for at least 30 minutes of either aerobic or weight resistance exercise.

Make your bed, clean your closet, clean the dishes, take out the garbage and clean your car before you have to go to work or take care of the kids. If your house is clean and your body is healthy, your brain thinks clearer, and you will have less stress and anxiety.

For May, we are offering a $21 neurological evaluation which is normally $500. Mention this article and when you come to the office you will also get a free vitamin D bottle and a free signed copy of my book “Boost Your Brain Power: A guide to improving your memory and focus.” Call us today at (201) 261-

2150 or email us at info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to reserve your spot immediately.

I am giving a lecture in River Edge on May 31 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on mastering nutrition. This event includes a free massage, free cold laser therapy, and free drinks and snacks, and can also be seen via Zoom, or you can get the recording so you can listen to it later. It is normally $100, but for the first seven people that sign up, you can go to the seminar for only $49, plus get two other bonus seminars (that occur once a month) which cover sleep, energy, nutrition, inflammation, and improving memory and focus for free ($16 a seminar).

For more information about functional neurology and our services, visit our website, www.kaplandc.com. Follow my weekly articles for updates on upcoming lectures and follow our Instagram page @kaplanbrainbody or our Facebook page Kaplan Brain and Body for lots of valuable health tips.

Listen to my “Boost Your Brain Power” radio shows every Saturday morning at 8 on 970 AM or Saturday at 2 p.m. on 710 AM. We also have lots of YouTube videos on my channel.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and people have been asking me what they can do for depression and anxiety.

Most anxiety is caused by the nervous system being over-stim-

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

IS YOUR PORTFOLIO AS EFFICIENT AS IT COULD BE?

When you look at a line chart of an investmentʼs historical performance, one feature to note is its volatility – how frequent and how

extreme the ups and downs have been. This is significant because volatility is the most commonly used measurement of an investmentʼs risk. The greater the volatility, the riskier the investment is considered to be.

If you viewed a chart comparing the stock marketʼs versus the bond marketʼs performance, youʼd see stocks have been significantly more volatile than bonds. Logically then, a 100% bond portfolio should be less risky than one including both bonds and stocks. Right?

Not so fast.

In fact, according to a Morningstar study for the years 1970 through 2018, a portfolio comprising 67% bonds (measured by the 20-year U.S. government bond) and 33% stocks (using the S&P 500 Index) offered less risk and better returns than a 100% bond portfolio. In other words, the former was more “efficient” than the latter, which leads to a concept investors should be aware of: the efficient frontier.

Start with the basics

Having a grasp of the efficient frontier begins with understanding:

• The relationship between risk and return

• How diversification can help manage risk and return

In general, risk and return go hand in hand. As an investmentʼs risk increases, so should its return. If you buy a Treasury bond, the return will probably be low because the risk of default is low. If you buy a stock, however, the potential risk can be significant—think back to what happened to stocks during the Great Recession—and you should expect a greater return potential as “compensation” from the market for accepting that additional risk.

Diversification is simply blending different investments in a portfolio in an effort to manage risk and return. The result is your “asset allocation.”

A very simple asset allocation might include stocks, which tend to be risky but offer growth potential, and bonds, which have been more stable and provide income (interest). You can help manage your risk and return by how much you allocate to each type of investment.

For example, if you have a 75% stock/25% bond portfolio, it should offer a greater risk and return potential than one thatʼs 25% stocks and

75% bonds.

Getting to an efficient frontier

Of course, there are lots of other investments for you to choose from, and there are an infinite number of portfolios you could construct from the stocks, bonds, and other assets available. Each of these blends has a unique overall risk and return level.

If you plotted them all on a chart, youʼd likely see whatʼs shown in the hypothetical graph below. The “pies”—representing different asset allocations—farthest to the left and highest up are the ones with the best expected risk/return tradeoffs. If you connected those “dots,” you would have it: the efficient frontier.

Thatʼs what the efficient frontier is, but what does it mean for investors?

It means that if your risk/return tradeoff doesnʼt land along the frontier, your portfolio is not as efficient as it could be. Youʼre taking on too much risk for the level of return youʼre getting, and you probably need to make adjustments to decrease risk, improve return, or both.

Finding help

Determining whether your portfolio is as efficient as it could be may require help from a professional financial advisor. He or she will likely ask about your goals (what youʼre investing for), time horizon (how long until you need to tap into your investments), and risk tolerance (how comfortable you are with swings in your portfolioʼs value).

Based on your responses, your advisor can help build a portfolio designed to help reach your goals as efficiently as possible. Asset allocation cannot eliminate the risk of fluctuating prices and uncertain returns.

S&P 500 comprises 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation. It is a market-value-weighted index; each stockʼs weight in the index is proportionate to its market value. It is one of the most widely used benchmarks of U.S. equity performance.

The indices are provided for informational purposes only; investors cannot directly purchase an index. Past performance in not indicative of future results.

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

Editorʼs note: The following article is for informational purposes only.

ERIC KOHLMEIER

Billie ‘Bill’ H. WASSMANN

Billie (Bill) Herman Wassmann died peacefully at his home of 62 years in Emerson, at the age of 93. He was born on May 10, 1929 to Henrietta Asplint Wassmann and Wilhelm Herman Wassmann, who emigrated from Germany in the 1920s. He resided in Bergen County his entire life.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Muriel Taft Wright Wassmann, in 2006.

He is survived by his daughter Patrice Wassmann and her husband, Glynn Simpler, of Lincoln, Vt., and son Clifford Wassmann of Laguna Beach, Calif.

He has three grandchildren: Peter Moyer, Matthew Moyer and Nova Wassmann, and one greatgrandson, Wyatt Moyer.

Bill served in the New Jersey National Guard from 1948-1952

OBITUARIES

and then served his country in the 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Division of the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Upon his return in 1954 he married Muriel and attended Pratt Institute of Art for one year. His education there was interrupted by the birth of daughter Patrice.

He was always active in his community and served on the Emerson Police Reserves, Shade Tree Commission, Environmental Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Bicentennial Committee co-chair, Emerson Centennial Commission co-chair, Friends of Emerson Library president.

He taught adult education classes in photography, and was the Emerson recycling coordinator for 13 years.

He was a member of Korean War Veterans of America, commander of the local VFW post, and a member of the local American Legion Post. He was a member of Mensa and an avid photographer, artist and reader.

He obtained a long-desired BA in his early 40s from Thomas

Edison University.

With Muriel always at his side he was active in area historical endeavors for many years and was the past president of the Ridgewood and Pascack Historical Societies. He was involved in the restoration of the Hermitage and the Wortendyke Barn. He and Muriel were historians for Emerson for many years. They also enjoyed selling antiques at local antiques shows.

In his later years he enjoyed singing and dancing at senior lunches at an area restaurant.

Bill will always be remembered most for his devotion to his wife Muriel, who after one year of marriage developed rheumatoid arthritis and became disabled and ultimately required almost complete care, all while working to support his family and do all the household chores. They were married for for 52 years and he has missed her deeply in the nearly 17 years since her death.

Visiting will be at Becker Funeral Home in Westwood on

May 5 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. A graveside committal service will be held the following day at George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus at 12:30 p.m..

Rudolph J. KOLB

Rudolph John Kolb, 96 of Park Ridge, passed away on Sunday, April 30, 2023. The son of the late Rudolph and Frances Kolb, he is survived by his son Mark (and his wife, Carol), Gary, Diane and Judee (and her husband, Stuart). He is also survived by nine cherished grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Rudolph was born on May 17, 1926 in Fort Lee. He, along with his beloved wife, Dorothy, spent most of their years in Ridgefield, where they raised their family.

They then moved to Park Ridge where they resided for more than 25 years. Rudolph spent most of his life as an independent businessman, running his own successful real estate and insurance business in addition to building

several homes and office buildings.

He had served as a Ridgefield councilman as well as a member of the townʼs board of education. He also coached youth baseball for several years.

He was an avid golfer and tennis player and had many friends and acquaintances. He was extremely proud of his service in the United States Navy during World War II, where he served as a radioman on a destroyer escort.

Rudolph touched many lives and will always be remembered as a man of great principle.

Family and friends are cordially invited to attend visitation at Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, rsfhi.com on Wednesday, May 3 from 2 to 6 p.m. Funeral Mass 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 4 at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 2 Fremont Ave., Park Ridge. Entombment in Garden of Memories Cemetery, 300 Soldier Hill Road, Township of Washington.

WESTWOOD

Friends Garden Club Plant Sale

The Friends of the Westwood Public Library Garden Club invites you to its plant sale on Saturday, May 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Motherʼs Day hanging baskets, flowers for your garden, and vegetables!

HILLSDALE

Sundial Garden Club Plant Sale

The Sundial Garden Club annual Motherʼs Day plant sale runs Saturday, May 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hillsdale train station at the corner of Broadway and Hillsdale

Avenue. A wide variety of annuals, perennials and deer-resistant plants will be available. Plants grown by Sundial members — many of whom are master g ar -

deners — will be real finds. One lucky shopper will win a free raffle for a hanging floral basket. Shop early for the best selection!

FROM PAGE 22

Brian collected more than 300 food items.

Brian then purchased plaques to place on all three items, stating that they were part of an Eagle Scout Project, donated by Brian Friedlander, part of Troop 80, with the year “2023” on them. The two donation bins also had an additional plaque, identifying the bins as belonging to the Tri-Boro Food Pantry.

Brian then invited two members of the Park Ridge Council: Council President William Fenwick and member Gregory Hoffman. Both were members of Boy Scout Troop 80 when they were younger. Hoffman is also an Eagle Scout.

Troop 80: HOUSE TOURS BY APPOINTMENT

On Saturday, April 22, Brian presented all the efforts of his Eagle Project. In attendance was Pam Poliandro, who was representing the food pantry, and members of Troop 80, Scout Master Mikki Rehak, other adult scout leaders, parents of scouts and the two invited council members.

Brianʼs parents, sister and grandparents were also at the event.

Brian delivered brief remarks thanking his family and Troop 80 for helping him in this effort. He reported that, as he collected so much money during his fund raiser, he didnʼt use it all after purchasing all the needed items. So, he also donated the remaining $481 to the food pantry.

Afterward, the council members unlocked Borough Hall so the new donation bin could be placed there.

Now in his senior year at Park Ridge High School, Brian is junior assistant scout master, who serves as the liaison to the adult scout master, advises the senior patrol leader and helps run the troop in a leadership role.

He was also recently nominated for the Order of the Arrow, described as the National Honor Society for Boy Scouts. It is the epitome of everything a Boy Scout represents through living the Scout Oath and Scout Law in oneʼs everyday life through service and devotion.

In fall Brian is off to Stony Brook University to pursue a

Bachelor of Science degree with a dual major in meteorology and marine science.

Brian has held a different troop position every year since he joined the Boy Scouts. Most notably, he has been an assistant senior patrol leader and at the age of 16, became senior patrol leader. This is the one of the highest positions one can achieve. In this position, he ran the troop in conjunction with the adult scout leaders.

Troop 80 is boy-led, which means the troop is run completely by the scouts. They plan all the activities, organize guest speakers and help younger scouts with rank advancement. This also includes camping or hiking trips once a month, as well as other activities.

All of this is done with the assistance of adult scout leaders, who advise them on all these matters and provide guidance.

Veolia going strong for Teen LEADS

Veolia of North Jersey has donated $20,000 toward Bergen VolunteersʼTeen LEADS program as a demonstration of partnership with the local nonprofit and community programs.

“I am thrilled to continue our longstanding partnership with Veolia,” stated Bergen Volunteers CEO Nina Bachrach. “We are proud to work together in this wonderful collaboration. It is important for our area businesses to support local communities in need, and Veolia is doing just that.”

Similar to the nonprofitʼs flagship Bergen LEADS and its college edition, the Teen LEADS program offers an interactive approach to training, discussions with community leaders, and on-site studies of topics including local government and policy creation. The program takes place in area high schools during the school year as well as school break intensives. Teen

LEADS participants have explored topics and sought solutions to food insecurity in our area, access to quality education for low-income communities, and other social issues.

Weland said in a press statement, “We are pleased to have such a long-standing relationship with The Volunteer Center of Bergen County and grateful to support a program that helps students become leaders in their communities. The projects these teens take on make our communities better.”

He added, “The services the Volunteer Center of Bergen County provides is immeasurable. Our 21year partnership has resulted in the distribution of food and services for those in need. Itʼs important work and I am glad we can do our part to help them in their success.”

Bergen Volunteers is a New Jersey 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Founded in 1966, Bergen

Volunteers provides human service and training programs to improve lives and strengthen communities.

To learn more, visit bergenvolunteers.org, the Teen LEADS program at bergenvolunteers.org/teenleads, and follow on social media @bergenvolunteers.

A subsidiary of Veolia group, Veolia North America (VNA) offers a full spectrum of water, waste and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. VNA helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Mass., Veolia North America has more than 10,000 employees at more than 400 locations across the continent.

For more information visit veolianorthamerica.com.

Veolia vice president and general manager Alan Weland presents a check to Bergen Volunteers CEO Nina Bachrach. Veolia photo

Garcia’s got it pretty ruff

Garcia, a 9-monthold German Shepherd seeing eye puppy, recently visited Pascack Hills High School. Heʼs being raised by the Lanius family of Montvale.

Lorraine Lanius tells Pascack Press, “Although his visit was brief, Garcia was introduced to the sights and sounds of a high school environment, enriching his training experiences.”

The German Shepherd was originally bred as a herding dog, for herding sheep. It has since been used in many other types of work, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, and police work.

MONTVALE

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

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

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

SUBSTITUTE CUSTODIANS, River Vale Public Schools, $25/hr. Black Seal License and Public School experience preferred, Knowledge of plant operation and maintenance; cleaning methods and procedures. Visit WWW RIVERVALESCHOOLS COM to view individual posting. To apply: Email resume or district application to HR@RIVERVALESCHOOLS COM or mail to RVPS, Human Resources, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. AA/EOE

FROM PAGE 34

board attorney said forming the committee was lawful.

He called posts about any discussions or conclusions by the ad hoc committee “false and premature.” He said the committee would look at whether the district could “cede back” from the state discretion on certain topics and when those sensitive topics would be taught locally.

He said since the standards were begun in September 2021, we “donʼt really know whether they provide a benefit or a detriment or something in between” and noted that it was “certainly appropriate to look at that.”

He noted committee recommendations will be discussed in public. He said the public will be updated on all committee work and that there were “layers to ensure” that no one on the committee “goes rogue.”

He said the public response to prior comments about “going rogue” to be “a lot of fanfare about

not much, personally.”

He told trustee Jason Garcia, also of Westwood, that he did not include him on the ad hoc committee, as he requested, because “no one on the committee wants to work with you, they donʼt trust you.”Pontillo said this was based on a January board vote of no confidence against Garcia.

“Responsibility, transparency, safety,” replied Garcia, to scattered applause.

Near the meetingʼs end, a couple trustees called for more board training sessions to help it work together more cooperatively.

GATENS MEETSWITH SENIORS MAY 11

The Emerson Senior Citizensʼnext monthly membership meeting is Thursday, May 11 at noon at the clubhouse, 20 Palisade Ave. Guest speaker is Superintendent of Schools Brian P. Gatens. Refreshments will be served.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

SUMMER CUSTODIANS. River Vale Public Schools. $15/hr

Anticipated dates: July 1 –Sept. 8, 2023. Landscaping, painting, cleaning classrooms and equipment, moving furniture, etc. Visit www.rivervaleschools.com to view postings. To apply: Email resume by May 5, 2023 to HR@rivervaleschools.com or mail to RVPS, Human Resources, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. AA/EOE

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

Seamstress/dressmaker, F/T or P/T, exp’d only, to alter couture gowns and fine ladies sportswear. Call (201) 664-3111.

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D PEST CONTROL TECHNICIAN. PEST CONTROLHELPER. GREATPAYAND BENEFITS. CALL201664-3933.

COMPANION CARE

H HEELLP P W WAANNTTEED D

Servers for busy restaurant in Park Ridge, NJ. F/Tor P/T. Please call (201) 391-4242.

SERVICES - CLEANING

with many years exp. Competitively priced with close attention to detail. Ref. Avail. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Call or text Analu for free estimate. 973-474-7383

Two lawn mowers for sale:John Deere ($175) and Toro ($50). Call (201) 674-1470.

Newspaper Delivery Newspaper Baggers

Call Dawn day or night @ 2018984040.

Wanted To Buy: All records, instruments, guitars, drums, microphones, old stereos, ect. Call Tony 201262-4970 or Cell 201509-7079.

A AUUTTOOS S F FOOR R S SAALLE E

1998 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck. 185,000 miles with 15k on new 350 v8 motor. $6,300. Hillsdale (201) 783-0353.

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WESTWOOD

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Want Business? Call (201) 664-2105