Pascack Press 6.12.23

Navybound

NEW CHAPTER OFFTO ROCKING START

The Womanʼs Club of Westwood looks to a can-do future with The Contemporaries

The Womanʼs Club of Westwood installed 23 women into its ranks on May 18, sealing the deal on a new committee, The Contemporaries of the Westwood Womanʼs Club.

The mission of The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood is to bring together a diverse group of women in an inclusive environment who, through fellowship, volunteerism, and leadership, engage in hyper-

See CHAPTER on page 16

ST. JOE’S A PROUD ‘BEACON OF HOPE’ Award lauds role

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

in Covenant House Student Sleep Out

NEWGRIEF ATHEAVY TRAFFIC CROSSING

Overhauled Pascack Road and Washington Avenue intersection drives safety concerns;

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

The Township Council introduced a $1.4 million bond measure, Ordinance 23-08, on June 7 to fund local improvements, including vehicle purchases, street repairs and building upgrades for the public library, police department and town hall.

Under the leadership of John Asselta and the campus ministers, SJR in 2010 became the first school to participate in the Covenant House Sleep Out Student Edition, offering students the opportunity to sleep out. SJR is the recipient of the Covenant House New Jersey Beacon of Hope Award for 2023. Left to right: Thomas Snyder '23, Covenant House New Jersey director Jim White, St. Joe’s director of the performing arts John T. Asselta, Liam Fahey '24, and Jack Laux '24.

SAINT JOSEPH Regional High School (SJR) in Montvale is thrilled to announce that it has been named the recipient of the Covenant House New Jersey Beacon of Hope Award for 2023.

The award was presented to the school at the esteemed Night of Broadway Stars event at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark on Wednesday, May 31. The Covenant House Bea-

VEOLIA WATER PHOTO

PADDLE POWER

It was a special day when Veolia invited the public to get out on the Oradell Reservoir in kayaks and canoes. Hundreds enjoyed races and explored.

PAGE 14

con of Hope Award is bestowed upon individuals and community members “who exhibit extraordinary service to Covenant House young people and its mission.”

Continued on page 15

In addition, council introduced Ordinance 23-07 setting compensation rates for municipal employees, and 23-09 to appropriate $80,000 for a pickup truck for the Department of Public Works. All votes to introduce were 4-0, with councilman Steven Cascio absent.

A public hearing on the three introduced ordinances is set for Monday, June 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Near the meetingʼs end, Councilman Tom Sears said that the recent Pascack Road–Washington Avenue intersection overhaul, eagerly anticipated by motorists throughout the Pascack Valley, appeared “poorly planned out” by either the township or county engineer

See GRIEF on page 7

Bckintime...

In this week’ column, “Motoring through Westwood, 1912,” Kristin Beuscher brings us a leafy view of the borough local commerce has overtaken.

Emerson • Hillsdale • Montvale • Park Ridge • River Vale • Township of Washington • Westwood • Woodcliff Lake PASCACKVALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Lainey Svorec of Hillsdale joins the U.S. Navy Reserve to serve as an aerographer’s mate.

WESTWOOD

councilman Sears says ʻsomething has to be doneʼ

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Asking parents to step up

To the editor:

ITʼS BEENSAID so many times that itʼs part of the adult lexicon. I want my kids to have more than I did when I was their age. Our kids have more things. When was the last time you saw a kid w ithout a Samsung or Apple iPhone practically attached to them? Children spend hours either playing video games or streaming highlights of their favorite entertainers. Access to information has made the nightly

homework assignments easier to complete. Long forgotten are the days where you had to write multiple drafts of a paper before the right version clicked and was ready for submission.

I recognize this sentiment appears out of touch and not current with todayʼs society. Effort and appreciation always transition with the times, they are not temporary or unfashionable.

Description without potential solutions is venting without purpose. We know the challenges, whatʼs the remedy? Parents need to regain their footing as the decision makers. There is a reason that teenagers are not responsible for covering your monthly mortgage payment. Roles and responsibilities need to be reestablished. Parents raise their kids. The children donʼt dictate terms or conditions best suited for them. Parents set boundaries and course of action. When this is done with direction it has positive and lasting benefits. Itʼs time for parents to stop being apprehensive and become the role models that contribute to the foundation of growth and opportunity.

Itʼs obvious to those paying attention that kids today are behaving in a harmful deleterious manner

It is important to understand the reason, so the solutions are pointed and

address what is transpiring. Happy children are upbeat and content. They donʼt act in adversarial belligerent fashion. Those doing intentional harm to the undeserving are desperate and malicious. They donʼt care about the consequences.

K of C of Park Ridge gives thanks

To the editor:

THE KNIGHTS of Columbus, Council #4486 at Our Lady of Mercy Church, Park Ridge thanks our generous community for donating to our annual Intell ectual Disabilities Drive. We would also like to thank Dunkinʼ and Goldbergʼs Bagels for allow-

Too many days pass where a headline reads subway tragedy caused by groups of kids. Productive people donʼt wake up and arbitrarily decide to inflict harm on innocent people. Kids engage in destructive behavior because they

ing us to set up and collect on the weekend (photo below). All proceeds of this drive will be distributed to organizations who help people of all ages with intellectual disabilities. You can still donate online by scanning a QR code.

The Knights of Columbus is a worldwide Catholic organization based on the principles of Charity, Unity and Fraternity. For more information on the Park Ridge Council, including online membership, visit knights4486.org

Tom Kistler

Grand Knight, Council #4486

are bored, depressed and know there is no punishment for the callous disregard of law. These points need to be explored.

Structure and routine are critical to success. That is even more important for children as their commitment and attention spans are fleeting without goals. Boredom is the byproduct of not having enough quality things to occupy time and concentration. When children are bored, they seek immediate and instant gratification. They have little to no real purpose. Kids that need things to do often go to the easiest least demanding activity. With nothing directing them to values and growth, kids without fully developed reasoning skills often gravitate to other kids in similar situations.

The too predictable result is causing havoc on the innocent. Pushing someone onto a subway platform is commonplace for these misguided kids. They think itʼs something to do and it will not have any residual punishment. They donʼt consider the devastation left behind. This is applicable to the ones directly impacted and the people that are fearful when considering future public travel choices. Todayʼs kids are tomorrowʼs decision makers. Itʼs never been more important to understand what it takes for success and impact.

Adam Schweitzer Hillsdale

School

safety on election days

To the editor:

THEREISA serious concern for the safety of the students and staff at Ann Blanche Smith School. The school is vulnerable to an attack from an intruder because the schoolʼs gymnasium is used as a polling location while school is in session with students.

Homestay hosts for international professionals needed in the Pascack Valley area

Compensation: $700 per week for 3 - 6 weeks

Requirements: Provide temporary accomodation in a clean home; have breakfast food available 7 days per week and a sit-down dinner 3 nights per week. An appreciation of travel and other cultures is ideal.

These English-speaking guests work for a Big 4 accounting firm. They will be enrolled in an all-day training course in Westwood 5 days per week to enhance their English communication skills and learn about American culture. Their approximate ages run 25 - 35. They often spend their weekends exploring NYC and other cities. This is an easy way to make money and have an enjoyable cultural experience. If interested in being a host, please email Kathleen Ann Whalen at kwhalen@mothertonguecoach.com.

Even though the last two election days (Nov. 8, 2022; March 14) were half-day for students, someone from the outside with nefarious intent could have easily entered the school through the gymnasium and done irreparable harm to the students and staff. School was in session for a full day on the most recent Primary Election, June 6.

The current set up on election days where anyone from the outside can enter Smith School is an anomaly.Typically, when people enter a school building when school is in session, they are required to check-in and/or present an ID.

Smith School is an especially soft target because of the limits placed on law enforcement officials. The districtʼs SLEO III officer has been posted at Ann Blanche Smith on election days,

Board fields residents’ middle school recommendations

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

Approximately 100 community members jammed George G, White Middleʼs Schoolʼs cafetorium June 1 with dozens offering views on next steps after the districtʼs $82.7 million bond referendum — intended to replace the century-old middle school — came up well short at the polls.

After two-plus hours of public comments, superintendent Robert Lombardy told Pascack Press that the feedback of the sessionʼs 30 community speakers would be summarized and likely discussed by district professionals and trustees at upcoming meetings.

He said it was possible that an advisory committee would be formed to explore the public input and help guide the districtʼs next steps. Both board president Nicole Klas and vice president Sal Sileo said they were grateful for the large audience turnout and Klas thanked borough professionals for helping them spread the word about the meeting.

Residents turned out to fill the middle school cafetorium (a combined cafeteria-auditorium) on a warm night and mostly called for a reduced price tag on middle school renovations, and improved communication about renovation options, costs, and taxpayer impacts. The school has no air conditioning in the room.

By a nearly 2:1 margin, 37% of voters rejected a proposed $82.7 million referendum on March 14 to replace the centuryold middle school with a new larger facility, and a new artificial turf field. The school bond would have increased local taxes an estimated $95 monthly, or $1,140 annually, on an average $474,172 home.

The referendum was defeated in all six polling districts. The official tally was 2,001 against and 1,180 in favor.

June 1, Lombardy reminded residents that the district provided extensive communication with residents via emails, a dedicated website, building tours, a virtual forum, and a brochure describing the need to replace the middle school with a new facility.

On June 1 and at pre-referendum meetings, some residents complained the district did not do enough to inform taxpayers of the renovation options and cost comparisons.

Also, both pre- and post-referendum, some have pressed the district to broadcast its meetings on YouTube, and offer an archive for residents to view later.

While most town councils record local meetings, and broadcast them live online via Zoom or YouTube, most Pascack Valley school boards do not. Some parents and taxpayers have said this alleged lack of transparency helped lead to the referendumʼs

defeat. School officials dispute the theory, and have not moved to broadcast or record BOE meetings.

O pening the forum, Lombardy recapped years-long committee work, planning, and outreach leading up to the referendum. “We have to come together and continue to talk together,” he said after the forum, noting that a prioritized list of options to consider was “a reasonable first step.”

During public comments, nearly a dozen residents noted that school officials need to do a better job communicating with the public about potential middle school options, current costs for each option, and to be transparent about all options moving forward.

Residents frequently suggested moving fifth graders back to the districtʼs two elementary schools as a way to reduce overcrowding and provide a better educational experience.

However, Lombardy and Klas both said that could not quickly be done as both schools would likely require physical upgrades and renovations to accommodate fifth graders.

A majority of residents said that the property tax increase was a stumbling block to approving the bond referendum.

One resident noted similar schools in other towns were renovated, and even replaced, for much less than $82.7 million.

Klas said that one district cited, Cresskill, received both state and federal aid to assist rebuilding its high school/middle school after it suffered nearly $20 million in damage from Tropical Storm Ida.

Resident Robert Feroli suggested not including a new turf field in the next go-round, and said that the estimated 10% jump in taxes appeared too high for what was being built.

Gerry Beatty said she felt officials did not reach enough residents with information and suggested more public forums to solicit feedback and provide

information. She also noted a renovation option would have provided more state aid to reduce costs.

Adam Hampton, a longtime referendum critic, said that the bond cost was too high and recommended fifth graders go back to grammar schools. He told residents he was “the biggest and most vocal proponent of voting no” on the school bond, noting “the cost has to be right” as the only way for school officials to “win back the buy-in from the public.”

Hampton said he agreed that “something needs to be done” at the middle school but that the public must be part of the process. One woman told trustees and borough officials — that they should focus exclusively on fixing the middle school first, and donʼt worry about building two community centers.

Resident Al Giunchi detailed six steps that school officials should undertake based on public comments. He told trustees they should move fifth graders back to elementary schools, not house students in trailers, put forth a renovation plan, provide updated costs on renovation options, put a timeline on the planning process, and put a timeline on school renovations.

Lombardy said a demographics study done prior to the referendum showed there would be an increase of up to 60 students in elementary schools in the next five years. He said the study did not take into account potential children from a recently approved 256-unit multifamily Patterson Street redevelopment project or the “significant number of young families coming into town.”

Lombardy said the forum was to “look forward” and that the board was “here to listen” and learn from the public.

After the forum, Sileo told Pascack Press, “Now itʼs our job to prioritize all of these ideas”

and said he expected upcoming meetings to address the public comments.

Trustee Kevin Donatello said it was “a very nice turnout” and that he was “looking forward and moving forward” after hearing the publicʼs input on the referendumʼs defeat.

On the district website, officials note that another bond referendum “is likely in Hillsdaleʼs future” and that needed renovations cannot be paid out of the districtʼs operating budget.

It notes the path to another referendum will likely include three to five months to hear com-

munity input, and direct architects and engineers to develop and submit preliminary plans for state approval; six months for the state education Department (DOE) to review/approve Hillsdaleʼs application; and three to five months to inform residents about the plan and costs before a referendum.

The district website notes public votes can only be held in J anuary, March, September, November and December. Officials estimate a referendum would be set no earlier than September 2024.

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Big Hix bills itself as “the nation’s most exciting, authentic, and fun country music tribute band.”

Country jam at Memorial Field June 16

TOWNSHIPOFWASHINGTON

The townshipʼs Public Affairs Department invites residents to Big Hix in concert on Memorial Field on Friday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Eighty Twenty Smash will serve “some good olʼcomfort food,” says the township. Konaʼs Ice Truck will also be joining us to keep residents cool. The town says, “Please join us for a night of country music fun with family, friends and neighbors! Gates open at 6:30 p.m.See you then for a fun night! Under the stars!”

Parking opens at 6:30 p.m. at Bethany Community Center.

Big Hix bills itself as “the nationʼs most exciting, authentic, and fun country music tribute band. Composed of full-time professional musicians, the group performs non-stop high energy country radio hits from chart-topping Nashville stars such as Chris Stapleton, Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, Morgan Wallen, Hardy and so many more, along with ʻ90s gems from Garth Brooks and Travis Tritt, as well as choice old-school classics from the golden age of Nelson, Haggard and Cash.”

Motoring through Westwood, 1912

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS WESTWOOD

WESTWOOD AVENUEHAD a much different look when this postcard above was mailed, June 10, 1912.

The viewer was looking up Main Street from Railroad Avenue. Nowadays, using the modern names, we would say it is looking up Westwood Avenue from Broadway.

This was an era when automobiles were still relatively new on the scene, and the treelined avenue saw traffic from both tires and horsesʼ hooves.

Cars were an expensive luxury back then. A classified advertisement from June 1912 shows a man from Westwood trying to sell a Rambler Touring Car he had bought less than a year earlier. He states in the ad that he paid $2,800 for the car. Adjusting for inflation, thatʼs $90,000 in todayʼs money.

On the left side of the street we see an early auto along with a horse-drawn wagon parked a couple doors down. There were posts along the curb line for hitching horses, but it would be many years before parking spaces for cars were drawn on the road.

The worldʼs first parking meter was installed in Oklahoma City in 1935; a decade later these devices made their appearance in Westwood. When the borough installed its first parking meters in the downtown area in the 1940s, an hour of parking cost a nickel.

The coming of the railroad in 1870 had triggered a massive transformation in the

This 1911 Rambler Model 65 sevenpassenger touring car sold at a Sotheby’s auction in 2019 for $266,750. It was listed as the only surviving Model 65.

The catalog read in part that the Rambler “was a high-quality, uppermid-priced automobile, of which numerous iterations were produced between 1902 and 1916. None of the Brass Era Ramblers were more scenestealing than the Model 65, a large model of 1911 with a 45 hp, 431 cu. in.

four-cylinder engine on a 125-inchwheelbase chassis, sold at an impressive cost of $3,050. A luxuriously appointed beast in Dark Brewster Green, it was a true king of the road that could challenge what were then the top models of Pierce and Packard in horsepower and scale.”

Pretty as a picture: Westwood Avenue via postcard, mailed June 10, 1912.

King of the road: A Westwood man in 1912 advertised a used car perhaps of the model that in 2019 sold for more than a quarter million dollars.It was the last of its kind.

PLANNERS OK 256-UNITCOMPLEX FOR REDEVELOPMENTAREA

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

A unanimous Planning Board voted May 23 to approve an application submitted by Patt erson Street Urban Renewal, LLC, to build a 256-unit, fourstory multifamily housing complex on a 5.2-acre site of the Waste Management facilities at Patterson Street and Brookside Place.

The application was submitted as part of a downtown Redevelopment Plan that highlights properties in the Patterson Street area that are eligible for redevelopment.

As part of the redevelopment, the redeveloper, Patterson Street Urban Renewal, will build

a free 5,000-square-foot community center as part of the complex.

The site will also contain 20 affordable housing units.

A public notice summarized the Planning Boardʼs 8-0 approval of the application.

T he applicant proposes to raze the existing Waste Management facilities and develop a new 256-unit, four-story multi-family housing, inclusive of 20 affordable housing units, recreation center, swimming pool, parking garage, open interior courtyard with dining, and site improvements, states the notice published on May 30.

Last summer, financial advisers hired by the council estimated that the PILOT agreement signed with the redeveloper could pay the borough up to $40 mil-

lion in revenue over a 30-year period.

Last August, Acacia Financial Group managing partner Jennifer Edwards told the council that the 30-year financial agreement being proposed would provide estimated annual revenues of $735,000, which adds up to nearly $40 million in revenue over the agreement.

Edwards, a financial consultant, had worked with the borough negotiating committee, and redevelopment counsel Joseph Baumann, in negotiating financial terms on the redevelopment.

The Planning Board review was based on guidelines and zoning in the Hillsdale-Patterson Street Redevelopment Plan, which supersedes local zoning.

The project provides 20

affordable housing units onsite, along with “community benefits” such as a public park on the corner of Patterson Street and Piermont Avenue and a community center at the complexʼs northeast corner, fronting Patterson Street

and Knickerbocker Avenue. Officials previously said the redevelopment agreement prov ides for three payments of $250,000 each — for a total of $750,000 — to the borough based on project milestones.

RIVER VALE FRIENDSHIP CLUBMEETINGS

The River Vale Senior Friendship Club has two upcoming members-only meetings:

• June 21 for a barbecue luncheon sponsored by the River Vale Police Department.

•The May 31 trip to Resorts Catskills Casino is sold out. Heads up: Aug. 21–23 brings a three-day/two-night trip

to Lancaster, Penn., $470 per person, includes tickets to “Moses”; round-trip transportation; lodging; two breakfasts; two dinners; a guided tour; taxes; and meal and bus driver gratuity. Reservations must be made ASAP Deposit received no later than June 10. For information call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.

School board student rep channels support on Pride sign

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WESTWOODREGIONALSCHOOLS

Following removal of a small Pride sign from the grounds of Westwood Regional Middle School — under order of the interim superintendent — a Westwood Regional High School student representative on the school board has proposed an alternate sign for the superintendent to consider placing in front of the middle school and high school.

Senior Mackenzie Fox, one of two 2022–2023 students representing Westwood and the Township of Washington, but lacking voting power, also launched an online petition that had garnered nearly 1,400 signatures by June 7 to support a Pride sign in front of the high school and middle school.

The petition says, “There is

no policy prohibiting approved signs at the schools. Our principals support these signs. Please sign this petition to show the superintendent, Mr. [Kenneth] Rota, that the Pride sign is supported by the students and would be a welcome addition to the front lawn. This sign is the first step to us being a truly inclusive and welcoming community.”

The board is scheduled to meet next on June 15.

The signʼs removal by the administration came under fire because it was not seen by supporters to be a flag, and because it seemed the interim superintendent was interpreting board policy subjectively rather than following it to the letter. He has since deferred to

Club News?

the board to resolve the matter.

The backdrop includes several months of contentious school board meetings where stakeholders have argued over how the stateʼs new health and sex education curriculum is taught, with trustees on the defensive for alleged inappropriate remarks about teachers “going rogue” from the state-mandated curriculum, and creation of an ad hoc committee to review the new sex ed curriculumʼs age-appropriateness.

We reached out to Rota for comment on whether he would allow the alternate sign that celebrates Pride Month in front of the middle and high schools. He did not respond by press time.

We also reached out to Board President Michael Pontillo (who is Westwoodʼs police chief), and two trustees, Andrea Peck and Jason Garcia, who voted against the new flag policy.

Peck told us, “I would like to

make it clear that I do agree that only the United States flag and the flag of the State of New Jersey should be on the flag pole. My reason for voting no on April 27, 2023 and May 11, 2023 had to do with my sense that its application was going to be broad and too general, and that would not serve the students well. I based it on conversations leading up to policy approval, including those that ensued that night. Interestingly, that is exactly how it is playing out at this point. We have seen firsthand how the application of the policy has led to the prohibiting of some lawn signs but not others.”

Garcia told us, “As a proud American, I would support a policy that states flag poles that fly the American flag will be designated for American flags and the state flag of New Jersey only. That would show proper distinction and respect for those flags.”

He added, “However, current-

ly, the Display of Flag policy 8830.01 reads, ʻThe only flags that are permitted to be raised on or over district school and administrative buildings shall be the United States flag and the flag of the State of New Jersey.ʼAs written, that could be interpreted as restricting even a hand-sized Pride flag elsewhere,” said Garcia.

Garcia noted, “Words written in policy dictate the policy and should be precise to the intent of the policy, so I recommended the policy go back to the committee for review and revision.”

Fox emailed Rota in late May when the Pride sign was removed from the middle school grounds. She said Rota told her then that the boardʼs new flag policy considered a sign that depicted a flag “in the same category as a flag.”

Fox, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, was upset and frustrated by Rotaʼs move, which followed passage of a school board policy that limited outside flags by district schools to the U.S. flag and state flag.

Fox — who has now been interviewed on network television news over recent developments — told Pascack Press that having small, campaign-sized signs in front of the high and middle schools on various concerns and events, is a normal occurrence.

She said that many teachers inside the high school are displaying rainbow stickers and small Pride flags, which makes her feel safe and accepted in their classrooms.

She said she hoped Rota would see the alternate sign she presented on June 6 to be “a compromise” as it did not depict the rainbow flag, but simply said “Pride” between the names of Westwood and Washington

CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

Charged with mischief in Pride flag yank; police say alcohol a factor

On Wednesday, June 7 at approximately 3:40 a.m., Officer J. Schwarz saw an individual removing a Pride flag affixed to the borough announcement board just off of Kinderkamack Road. Investigation found that the resident, 31, was under the influence of alcohol and that the criminal mischief was without aim to intimidate members of the protected class. Defendant was charged with criminal mischief and is pending a first appearance in Emerson Municipal Court. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Senior Mackenzie Fox, one of two students representing Westwood and the Township of Washington for 2022–2023,but lacking voting power,launched an online petition that had garnered nearly 1,400 signatures by June 7 to support a Pride yard sign (left) in front of the high school and middle school.She has since proposed an alternate sign (right).

He said he and many constituents had three issues: the first being that no right hand turns are allowed. He said not allowing righthand turns “just increased our carbon monoxide eight times” noting that permitting right turns on red lights was originally allowed to help save fuel, aid traffic flow and reduce pollutants from idling engines.

He said the “second problem” was three lanes going east to west and north to south. He said heading east on Washington Avenue after passing the intersection, two lanes suddenly merge into one lane, creating a situation for potential accidents.

He suggested the design was faulty and noted, probably a high school student “could give us a better plan at that intersection” than having cars cut one another off when merging.

Councilwoman Stacey Feeney said she had “received several phone calls” from motorists noting “a lot of

racing going on” at that light heading east on Washington Avenue. She suggested the second lane heading east should be changed to a rightturn only lane. Sears agreed.

His third concern was the intersectionʼs turn radius. He said box trucks and cars heading west on Washington Avenue and making a left to Pascack Road often need to stop because traffic heading north on Pascack block their turning lane.

“Something has to be done,” Sears said, noting local emergency responders were concerned about the traffic problems he had mentioned.

On the night of Monday, June 5, Mayor Peter Calamari took to Facebook to respond to “the most common inquiries by residents.” Among these were over the intersection.

He said, “If you havenʼt had a chance to drive through the intersection of Pascack Road and Washington Ave, I invite you to do so. We successfully worked with the county

to get this long-awaited project completed. The changes made, have also revised outdated driving rules and brought about many improvements in moving traffic through the intersection.”

Calamari said, “In time Iʼm confident traffic studies will show this state-of-the-art design was a much-needed upgrade to our community. Drone footage was taken on May 23 by Boswell Engineering to document the new configuration.”

He also said Coach USA Route #47 is no longer re-routed, the commuter parking lot is set to go out to bid shortly, and the new DPW building could go out to bid this summer.

Thereʼs more! Read the whole story at PascackPress.com!

Motorists hoping for an easing of the bottleneck at Pascack Road and Washington Avenue now report the site, overhauled, suffers from design issues. Township of Washington

Voters set up fall Pascack Valley mayor, council races

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PASCACKVALLEY

Slightly greater than 3% of Bergen Countyʼs 665,776 voters cast ballots in the mostly uncontested Democratic and Republican primary elections on June 6, with Pascack Valley party candidates hndily winning their nominations for the November General Election.

Historically, voter turnout is depressed in primaries as few intra-party contests occur. According to the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office, unofficial early tallies on June 6 showed a voter turnout of 21,123 voters countywide.

However, in Woodcliff Lake and Township of Washington,

15% SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNT

incumbent Republicans faced challenges of a different sort.

Woodcliff Lake mayor race

Due to a snafu that left his filing petition short of valid signatures, Mayor Carlos Rendo, and his running mates, Julie B. Brodsky and Joshua S. Stern, needed to mount a vote-by-mail write-in

campaign in order to be placed on the Republican line in Novemberʼs General Election.

Late Wednesday afternoon, Rendo told Pascack Press that Republican county committee officials informed him that he had succeeded.

“I feel great. It shows how hard work gets you to where you want to go,” said the two-term mayor, who said this would be his last four-year term should he be reelected.

Unofficial write-in results from the county Elections Division were expected to be released late Wednesday or Thursday, said officials, after our press deadline.

Rendo said though the filing snafu caused some headaches, he saw a silver lining. “This got Republicans to trust the vote-bymail process, a process all Republicans need to learn to defeat the Democratic Party (candidates).”

Rendo lost the race for Lieutenant Governor in 2017. ThenRepublican gubernatorial candidate Kim Guadagno and Rendo opposed Democrats Philip Murphy and Sheila Oliver in the 2017 New Jersey governor election. Murphy and Oliver were reelected in 2021.

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Washington Township challenge brings back Independents

In Washington Township, longtime Republican councilman Steven C. Cascio was not selected by the Republican county committee to run again in Novemberʼs election.

However, Cascio, along with Republican running mates Michael DeSena and Michael T. Ullman, who both have served on council, filed to run on the Independent line in Novemberʼs General Election. (Cascio previously

TOPPING THEBALLOT in the 39th Legislative District, which covers the Pascack Valley, are uncontested Democratic State Senate candidate Jodi A. Murphy, of Westwood, who received 6,324 votes (99.9% of votes) and incumbent Republican Holly Schepisi, of River Vale, who garnered 5,786 votes, or 99.8% of votes.

Below the Senate candidates, in the 39th Legislative District State Assembly candidates show uncontested Democrats Damon J. Englese, who received 5,290 votes, or 49.49%, and John F. Vitale,

noted that he was a Republican running as an Independent.) Their slateʼs motto: “Fiscally Responsible.” They are each running for three-year terms. The Independent candidatesʼfiling deadline was June 6.

Opposing Cascioʼs ticket in November are Republican council

6,038 votes, or 50.5%, and uncontested Republican incumbent Robert J. Auth 5,489 votes, or 50.3%, and John V. Azzariti, Jr., 5,403 votes, or 49.5%.

Running uncontested for two Bergen County Commissioner seats are Democrats incumbent Joan M. Voss, 25,345 votes, or 50.7% and Rafael Marte, 24,558 votes, or 49.16% and Republicans Agninshalah N. Collins, 14,101 votes, or 49.15% and Mary JoAnn Guinchard, 14,550 votes, or 50.71%.

Michael Olohan

incumbent Desserie D. Morgan and Stacey C. DeMarco-Feeney, joined by newcomer George H. Toole, running as “Republicans For Responsible Government.”

Predicted match-ups for mayor in three towns

In three of five Pascack Valley towns that will feature contested mayoral races this November, the opposing Republican and Democratic primary candidates easily won. Those include Park Ridge, Montvale, and Hillsdale. Westwood Republican Mayor Raymond Arroyo is running unopposed for reelection.

Hillsdaleʼs General Election mayoral contest added a third mayoral candidate as incumbent Republican councilman Zoltan Horvath jumped into the fall contest as an Independent candidate. Horvath will face off against former Republican Councilman Frank Pizzella and Democratic newcomer Michael Sheinfield also vying for mayor this November.

Mayor John Ruocco declined to run for reelection; however, he is running for a three-year council term, along with newcomer Clemente Osso. No Democratic council candidates oppose them this fall.

Park Ridge, Montvale

Other mayoral contests this fall occur in Park Ridge, where

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

MURPHY (D) SCHEPISI (R)

Age 55–plus with Montvale concerns? Forum June 12

The Borough Council will hold a forum on Monday, June 12 at 6:30 p.m., at the Senior Community Center, 1 Memorial Dr., to field seniorsʼ(age 55 and up) questions on local issues

“Any senior can raise any topic or issue on their minds,” said Mayor Michael Ghassali, noting he hoped all council members would attend.

Ghassali said the seniors had requested to meet with him and council to discuss topics concerning them, including senior activi-

ties, taxes, local projects, development, and other needs.

“This is a wide-open opportunity for seniors to come and ask questions to us,” said the mayor, who is running for reelection this November. Challenging Republican Ghassali in this yearʼs election will be former Democratic councilwoman Elizabeth Gloeggler.

Ghassaliʼs slate includes incumbent Republicans Theresa Cudequest and Douglas Arendacs. Joining Gloeggler on her ticket will be newcomers Allison Barnes

and Daniel Galeon.

At the May 11 Council meeting, Ghassali reported that 20 businesses were looking to move to town and looking for locations.

On May 11, the council moved to bond for and purchase 8.4 acres of DePiero farmland for possible future agricultural or recreational use.

In the last year, the council has bonded for nearly $10 million to purchase 37 acres of borough land. (See “Council clears $5.15M Bond for DePiero Land,” Michael

Olohan, June, 5, 2023, Pascack Press.)

The borough attorney said a final closing on the DePiero property was anticipated by late August or September following the “due diligence” period.

Moreover, the borough is planning to place welcome signs at approximately 15 locations throughout the town. The mayor said some signs may be sponsored by local businesses while the majority of signs will likely be paid for and maintained by the

Primary:

FROM PAGE 8

incumbent Democrat Keith Misciagna opposes Republican Liza Falato-Lau; and in Montvale where incumbent Republican Mayor Michael Ghassali defends against Democrat Elizabeth Gloeggler, a former councilwoman.

Bergen County Clerk Elections Division Supervisor Sabrina Taranto told Pascack Press that vote-by-mail ballots “can be cured

borough.

Streets likely to get signs include Chestnut Ridge Road, Grand Avenue, Spring Valley Avenue, and Kinderkamack Road.

A resolution spelling out a contract for local businesses to sponsor a welcome sign was on the June 8 council agenda. The resolution noted “concession contracts” for each sign would cost local business sponsors $600 for each sign sponsored.

— Michael Olohan

up to 10 days after election” if postmarked by June 6. Elections officials verify that mail-in ballots as well as provisional ballots voted on Election Day are from registered voters and not duplicated by any other ballots before recording the votes.

For local vote totals, can visit the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office 2023 Primary Election Results Summary on their website. (See “Voters head early to cast votes in June 6 Primary Election,” Michael Olohan, May 31, 2023, Pascack Press Online.)

Bergen County Players open auditions June 19, 20,

Bergen County Players will open its 91st season this September with “Rent,” the Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning rock musical that shaped a generation of audiences.

Open auditions will take place at the Little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, June 19, 20, and 22 at 7:30 p.m. BCP seeks an ethnically diverse cast of men and women ages 18–40.

With music, book and lyrics by Jonathan Larson, “Rent” brings together a multi-ethnic cast of characters, portrayed by both BCP veterans and newcomers alike.

With direction by Steve Bell, musical direction by Will Rich, and choreography by Diana Baer, this timeless musical reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that truly matters — love.

Based loosely on Pucciniʼs La Bohème, “Rent” follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create in New

PARK RIDGE

Yorkʼs Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. How these young bohemians negotiate their dreams, loves, and conflicts provides the narrative thread to this groundbreaking musical. This is theatre at its best — exuberant, passionate, and joyous.

“Rent” had its world premiere Off-Broadway on Feb. 13, 1996, at New York Theatre Workshop and forever changed the landscape of American theater. It moved to Broadway the same year, won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and was

nominated for 10 Tony Awards, winning for Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, and Best Original Score; the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Book of a Musical, Outstanding Music, and Outstanding Lyrics; and many others.

The production ran for 12 consecutive years, becoming one of the longest-running shows on Broadway.

Callbacks will include readings from the script and singing a song from the show.

Rehearsals are scheduled to

Flag Day event June 14

American Legion Post 153, Park Ridge, hosts the annual Flag Day event in conjunction with the Park Ridge Elks on June 14 at 6 p.m. at 118 Ridge Ave.

Area Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts are encouraged to attend in uniform. The public is welcome to

join in honoring Old Glory “and should proudly display the American flag at home every day.”

Anyone with old flags should bring them so they can be disposed of properly. “Wear your red, white and blue and join in this Flag Day celebration.”

begin immediately following the audition process. All rehearsals will take place at the Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell.

Public performance dates are Sept. 9–Oct. 14, Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

Bergen County Players encourages and is committed to a diverse and inclusive theater experience.

Unless otherwise specified, BCP will cast any actor in any role if appropriate, without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, physicality, or disability. Casting

will be character-driven; therefore, actors are encouraged to audition for any roles in which they are interested.

For more information write Steve Bell at BCPSteve@aol.com or visit bcplayers.org

The Bergen County Players, Inc. is a non-Equity, non-profit community theater company dedicated to presenting quality productions for the enrichment of the community and is a member of the New Jersey Association of Community Theaters.

Registration open for Safety Township, ages 5–6

Together we create a safer community. With this mission in mind, the Township of Washington Municipal Alliance and Township of Washington Police Department are pleased to present a educational and engaging program for Township children ages 5–6.

Safety Township is designed to teach awareness and accident prevention skills while introducing the children to their local first responders and community helpers.

Children will learn from the experts in a fun and interactive way.

Each week the children will be introduced to a new branch of the Township – EMS, Fire Department, Police Department, and Public Library

Learning skills such as basic first aid, bike safety, safety in a public building, and fire safety the attendees will practice how to pre-

pare and react to emergencies and go home to share their lessons with family and friends. They will tour police vehicles, fire trucks, and ambulances; build a first aid kit; learn bike safety skills; and learn important lessons such as stranger danger.

At the end of each class kids will go home with an activity book pertaining to that days lesson that they can work on with their family to better personalize and reinforce their safety plans and actions.

Classes are on Saturdays, July 8, 15, 22, and 29, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Registration is required and is limited to Township residents. Registration opens June 5. Register online from the WTPD or Municipal Alliance Facebook pages, or library website, TwpofWashingtonPL.org or call (201) 664-4586.

Club News?

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

WESTMINSTER REALTYSIGNSON AS FOREVER YOUNGSPONSOR

The Westwood Recreation Department Forever Young program has a new sponsor: This spring Westminster Management, operators of Coventry Square, Stanford Court and The Madison apartment complexes in Westwood, stepped up to support the Forever Young program with an annual sponsorship.

The sponsorship will help defray the cost of instructors and supplies,allowing Westwood Recreation to keep the program free for residents and low-cost for non-residents.

The Westwood Recreation Department Forever Young program is a free fitness and activity program for Westwoodʼs 55+ community.

The program includes TaiChi, Yoga, Chair-Yoga, Cardio Dance, Strength & Conditioning, Art, Pickleball, Mahjong and Open Gym Basketball.

To register for Forever Young classes, adults 55 and up should go to the Westwood Community Center office at 55 Jefferson Ave. any day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or call for (201) 664-7882 for more

RIVER VALE

HOUR MASSAGES

information.

Westwood Recreation is able to offer varied and affordable programming by harnessing the power of local business partnerships and sponsorships. According to the National Alliance for Youth Sports, sponsoring town recreation programs has been proven to build community loyalty and goodwill, increase business awareness and positive business engagements with residents, and assist in keeping more kids and families active and involved in health and wellness programs.

More than 30 local businesses are sponsoring Westwood Recreation programs at various levels. Annually, nearly 2000 participants get fit, harness their creativity, learn new skills, and take advantage of Westwoodʼs conveniently located recreation facilities and parks.

The departmentʼs affordable (and sometimes free) classes, programs and events are intentionally designed to meet the needs of the communities youngest and oldest residents and everyone in between.

Seniors’ BBQ, Hudson River cruise

The River Vale Sr. Friendship Clubʼs annual summer BBQ, hosted by the River Vale Police Department, will be held on June 21 this year This is a members only luncheon. Doors open at noon.

Aug. 22 brings a two-hour

luncheon cruise along the Hudson River, aboard the Luxury Bateaux glass boat in New York City, plus a visit to either Chelsea Market or Hudson Yards, where you might do a little shopping, or just take a walk on the High Line.

Reservations for this trip

must be made ASAP. Cost is $95 for members and $98 for nonmembers.

The Lancaster trip is cancelled over lack of interest. For more information call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.

ForeverYoung program participant Pat Koment shows off a ForeverYoung T-shirt courtesy of new program sponsor Westminster Management during a recent game of pickleball at the Westwood Community Center.

Senior Fellowship luncheon June 13

FRAUD ALERT:Thieves targeting mail, credit cards

Numerous residents in the Pascack Valley have reported unauthorized credit inquiries on their accounts from American Express. Some have also received American Express Marriott Bonvoy credit cards that they did not request.

If you have received one of these credit cards or are experiencing suspicious inquiries from American Express contact your local police department.

Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali wrote his residents on June 5, “Thieves have found a way to access credit card and personal information through malware and phishing schemes, and order credit cards directly from the credit card company. They then wait for the credit card package to arrive and they steal it right out of the

PASCACK VALLEY

Families come up winners at Oradell Reservoir Day

It was a great day to get out on the Oradell Reservoir on Saturday, the special day each year when Veolia invites the public to get out on the water in kayaks and canoes. Hundreds came to enjoy races and to explore the reservoir.

Meanwhile, the fish were biting at the Youth Fishing Derby, sponsored b y Veolia and the Hackensack Riverkeeper.

Brandon Kim, 8, of Old Tappan is the winner of the Youth Fishing Derby. He managed to snag nine fish.

Missed it? You can still enjoy Lake DeForest on June 17 and Lake Tappan on Sept. 9.

It was a great day to get out on the Oradell Reservoir on Saturday, the special day each year when Veolia invites the public to get out on the water in kayaks and canoes.

Great catch!

Taking to the water on Oradell Reservoir

Brandon Kim , 8, of Old Tappan is the winner of the Youth Fishing Derby

Scenes from Oradell Reservoir Day, courtesy Veolia Water.

Missed it? You can still enjoy Lake DeForest on June 17 and Lake Tappan on Sept. 9.

St. Joe’s:

FROM PAGE 1

This year, the award acknowledges the deep commitment of the SJR community and its students to Covenant House New Jersey and its mission.

One of the initiatives that propelled SJR to receive this award is its involvement in the Covenant

House Student Sleep Out. Since 2010, under the leadership of John Asselta and the campus ministers, SJR became the first school to participate in the Covenant House Sleep Out Student Edition, offering students the opportunity to sleep out.

“Receiving this award is a wonderful recognition of the thousands of St. Joeʼs students who have slept out over the last 11 years,” Asselta said in a statement shared with Pascack Press.

He added, “It is heartwarming to know that what was started at St. Joeʼs is now a national movement of teens helping homeless teens across America.”

As co-creators of this groundbreaking initiative, SJR sparked a movement that allowed students to embrace their faith, cultivate empathy and understanding, and become advocates for young people facing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking.

Through their unwavering dedication, over 1,000 SJR young men have participated in the Sleep Out Student Edition, raising close to $1 million to support Covenant House New Jersey This influential movement has inspired public and private schools across the state, with thousands of students joining the cause.

SJR can proudly claim to be the creators and pioneers of the Sleep Out Student Edition movement, demonstrating their commitment to strengthening faith and modeling the importance of service to others.

Principal Michael Bruno added, “Accepting the Covenant House New Jersey Beacon of Hope Award is a moment of immense pride for St. Joseph

Regional. This accolade not only recognizes the extraordinary efforts and leadership of the students and staff but also highlights their remarkable contribution to the Covenant House mission. St. Joseph Regional remains dedicated to engaging our boys in opportunities that promote our vision of Vir Fidelis (Faithful Man) and will continue to make a difference in the lives of those in need.”

St. Joseph Regional High School is a renowned educational institution dedicated to nurturing young men academically, spiritually, and personally. SJR offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum, a vibrant extracurricular program, and a commitment to community service.

With a focus on faith, character development, and leadership, St. Joseph Regional empowers its students to become compassionate, responsible, and successful

members of society.

Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter, support, and comprehensive

services to homeless, runaway, and trafficked youth. They offer a safe-haven and a pathway for young people facing homelessness, providing a range of services

including housing, healthcare, job training, education, and counseling. CHNJ helps vulnerable youth rebuild their lives and create a brighter future.

Principal Michael Bruno said“Accepting the Covenant House New Jersey Beacon of Hope Award is a moment of immense pride for St. Joseph Regional.”

SJR can claim to be the pioneer of a student movement.

Chapter: Contemporaries work for stronger Westwood

FROM PAGE 1

local philanthropy to serve the greater Westwood community.

Installation was conducted by Claire Hill, Ninth District vice president, and 1st Vice President and Membership Chairman Lynda Bager.

Each new member received a white carnation — the clubʼs flower — and a bookmark with The Collect, a prayer said by all womenʼs clubs at their meetings.

Deen Meloro, past state president of the New Jersey State Federation of Womenʼs Clubs and secretary for The Womanʼs Club of Westwood, spoke about the history of the Federation: Founded in 1890, the Federation of Womenʼs Clubsʼroots are traced to 1868, when Jane Cunningham Croly formed a womanʼs club — Sorosis. (Weʼre told sorosis might have been intended as a term related to sorority.)

In celebration of Sorosisʼ21st anniversary, in 1889, Croly invited womenʼs clubs throughout the United States to pursue the cause of federation by attending a convention in New York City. On April 24, 1890, 63 clubs formed the General Federation of Womenʼs Club by ratifying the GFWC constitution.

At the induction ceremony, Susan Chambers, 1st vice president of The New Jersey State Federation of Womenʼs Clubs, headquartered in New Brunswick, spoke about the Federation and the opportunities it provides for education, leadership training, and

community service through participation in local clubs.

Chris Sienkielewski, 2nd vice president of NJSFWC, spoke about the General Federation of Womenʼs Clubs, headquartered in Washington, D.C.

The club notes, “Community service programs span the lives of our members, their families, and communities: arts and culture, civic engagement and outreach, education and libraries, environment, and health and wellness. GFWC has earned a reputation as a powerful force in the fight againstdomestic violence.”

(And members have fun: See related story “Women host author of ʻcozyʼKnit & Nibble myster-

ies,”on page 28.)

The Contemporaries are on the go

The induction is the formal start to whatʼs already begun: The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood co-hosted, with Celebrate Westwood, the Memorial Day Bike Brigade, represented at Westwood Baseball Association opening day fun, April 29, at Westvale Park, and worked on town cleanup on April 22.

The chapter hosted 30 guests at its first progressive dinner on Friday, March 24 — raising more than $500 to support Meals on Wheels of North Jersey

The night began with a high-

energy happy hour at Cafe Anello, where Contemporaries and their guests enjoyed specialty cocktails and conversation before being randomly divided into three groups to enjoy multi-course pre-fixe dinners at Granita Grille, Mezza, and Hanami.

Committee chair Nicole Dragona thanked those restaurants for partnering to craft special menus for this event. “The fundraising efforts could not have been as successful without their generosity.”

Guests were invited to continue their revelry at Five Dimes Brewery, where the resounding questions seemed to be, Whenʼs the next event? (Dragona said a

similar event is in the works.)

The Contemporaries of the Womanʼs Club of Westwood and friends sweated through a 45minute power workout combining boxing, HIIT, and strength training, courtesy of Rumble Montvale on Tuesday, March 21 at the Womanʼs Clubhouse.

The Club said it looks forward to offering more fitnessfocused events free to its members in the coming months.

For information write westwoodcontemporaries@gmail.com or call (201) 916-1580. For more events and opportunities, visit instagram.com/westwoodcontemporaries

—Staff report

The happy scene May 18: The mission of The Contemporaries of the Woman’s Club of Westwood is to bring together a diverse group of women in an inclusive environment who, through fellowship, volunteerism, and leadership, engage in hyper-local philanthropy to serve the greater Westwood community. Madeleine Ciocco photo.

FATHER’S DAYCOMEDY WITH TOMMY GOOCH

TOMMY GOOCH headlines at Township Theatreʼs Comedy Corner on Saturday, June 17 at 9 p.m.. He has appeared at Borgata Casino in Atlantic City and at top comedy clubs in NYC and NJ, including Bananas (NJ) and Broadway Comedy Club (NYC).

Also appearing is MIKE MORSE, a regular on TV and comedy clubs across the country. Mike has been featured on MTV, VH-1, and Comedy Central. He has worked with Jay Leno, Lisa Lampanelli, Colin Quinn, and on the famous Friars Club Roasts.

AL CHELI is making a return to the Comedy Corner at Township Theatre. He recently performed at Scotty's Comedy Cove in Springfield, NJ.

GOLDBERG is host for the evening. He is a favorite at comedy clubs throughout the region, including Gotham Comedy Club and Comic Strip Live in NYC.

Tickets are $25, with no food

BIT:

FROM PAGE 4

downtown streetscape. When the first train pulled into Westwood, just 25 houses stood in the community. By 1910 there were 1,870 people living in town. Accordingly, there was a call for more stores

Get your beach bod back at WW Rec

or drink requirements and no bridge tolls to NYC!

Tickets are available via BrownPaperTickets at COMEDYCORNER061723.BROWN-

Residents and neighbors age 55 and up looking to get their beach body back need to look no further than Westwood Recreationʼs ForeverYoung Yoga, Chair Yoga and Tai-Chi classes.

Certified yoga instructor Tori Karach leads ForeverYoung participants, beginners to advanced, in a 60-minute class designed to increase overall flexibility, assist in improving balance and posture, boost mood, increase muscle tone and ease aches and pains.

Yoga is held in the Westwood Community Center on Thursdays from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.

Chair Yoga with Tori is also held in the Westwood Community Center on Thursdays from noon to 12:40 p.m.

The ForeverYoung yoga classes are free to age 55-plus Westwood residents and $20 per month non-residents.

Local residents 55 and up who are looking for a new challenge are also encouraged to try Tai-chi with instructor Hasmig

Mekjian. Tai-chi is a Chinese martial art that incorporates slow continuous movement from one pose to the next. It is widely hailed as a beneficial way to reduce stress and anxiety and regular practice promotes better sleep and weight loss. Tai-chi might also improve cognition and balance and relieve symptoms of arthritis.

ForeverYoung tai-chi classes run Tuesdays at 8 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. Itʼs free for Westwood residents; the non-resident fee is $30 per month.

To register, visit the Westwood Community Center office at 55 Jefferson Ave. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (201) 664-7882 for more information.

PAPERTICKETS.COM or by scanning the QR code above. Group tickets are also available via JACK@JIRWINPRODUCTIONS .COM

Township Theatre is at 249 Pascack Road, Township of Washington.

and services. The commercial district, which began with a couple of stores at Broadway and Westwood Avenue, spread toward Kinderkamack Road during the early 20th century.

Along the way, commercial buildings replaced the residential homes that once stood along the avenue.

— Kristin Beuscher is president of Pascack Historical Society.

Tori Karach leads Westwood Recreation ForeverYoung Yoga,Chair Yoga and Adult yoga classes at the Westwood Community Center and in Veterans Park when weather permits. Westwood Recreation photo

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

HEREʼS AROUNDUP of some of what our libraries are offering patrons in the next days, This is a holiday week, so light listings this issue. 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, June 12 at 1 and 3 p.m.: Knitters Circle. At 1 p.m. Rainbow Fun with Miss Jolie, ages 1–6. Registration recommended. At 3:30 p.m.: Afternoon Storytime, registration recommended.

• Tuesday, June 13 at 3:30 p.m.: Switch Club for grades 2-4. Registration required for each child per date. At 11 a.m.: Baby and Me, Registration recommended. At 1:30 p.m.: Chair Yoga, register.

• Wednesday, June 14 at 1

TOASTMASTERS 35TH ANNUALDINNER JUNE 19

Valley Toastmastersʼs 35th annual dinner and reunion at Donatellaʼs restaurant in Harrington Park is Monday, June 19 from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. New officers will be installed, old officers thanked. All are welcome to join. $35 payable in advance. For details write maxinekauf-

man@optonline.net.

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Headquartered in Colorado, the organizationʼs membership is some 280,000 in 144 countries.

Club News?

ANATOMY OF THE IRON HORSE BURGER

p.m.: Matinee: “Armageddon Time” (R).

• Thursday, June 15 at 3:30

p.m.: Afterschool Movie: “The Bad Guys” (PG). Register.

• Friday, June 16 at 10:30

a.m.: Music and Movement for ages 1–4, register.

• Saturday, June 17 at noon: Fatherʼs Day Trains Day, all ages. Register.

H HIILLLLSSDDAALLE E

509 Hillsdale Ave. (201) 358-5072

hfpl.org

•Monday, June 12 at 12:30 p.m.: Monday Book Club Register. At 7 p.m.: Wine tasting and Education With Michael Bajdechi Register.

• Tuesday, June 13 at 7 p.m.: Scrabble Club, register. At 7 p.m.: Cookie Decorating for Adults

Register.

• Wednesday, June 14 at 10 a.m.: Summer Reading Program. Register.

• Thursday, June 15 at 7 p.m.: Thursday Evening Book Club. Register.

• Friday, June 16 at 11 a.m.: Chair Yoga. Register.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

PROJECT: HOW TO BUILD BERGEN’S BEST CHEESEBURGER!

PROJECT LOCATION: 20 WASHINGTON AVE WESTWOOD, NJ

PHONE: 201-666-9682 FAX: 201-666-1163

Come visit our website www.theironhorse.com

Members of the Woodcliff Lake Senior Association enjoyed a full day tour of historic Paterson on May 18. Thanks went to their host, Mayor André

Members of the Woodcliff Lake Senior Association enjoyed a full day tour of historic Paterson on May 18.

According to Marilyn Clark, the day started with a tour of Hinchliffe Stadium and a presentation of the history of the stadium by Mayor André Sayegh. He cited the historical significance of Paterson, from its founding father, Alexander Hamilton, to the silk

mills, to the naming of The Great Falls as a National Park.

The seniors then went to Lou Costello Park, which was recently revitalized, where they saw a presentation by Bud Abbott and Lou Costello impersonators, followed by lunch at a Peruvian restaurant.

Clark said, “The Great Falls were next, in all their majesty and magnificence — where a park

ranger brought us back in time to the Lenape Indians.”

The Great Falls Youth Center was the final part of the all-day trip where Paterson young people shared their stories of the positive effect the center had on their lives.

The center is supported by the New Jersey Community Development Corporation which was founded by its chairman, Robert Guarasci.

Sayegh. Marilyn Clark photo

WOODCLIFF LAKE

COMMUNITY CALENDAR : ATTHELIBRARY

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

rivervalelibrary.org

•Monday,

•

to celebrate the newly renovated Reading Garden. Join us for refreshments, activities, and a rock painting craft for all ages. For more information visit montvalelibrarynj.org or write Bombace@montvale.bccls.org

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

• Monday June 12 at 11:30 a.m.: Restorative Yoga. Register.

• Tuesday, June 13 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee. Register.

• Thursday, June 15 at 10 a.m.: Storytime with Miss Renee Register.

•Monday, June 12 at 1 p.m.: The Declaration of Independence: America's Birth Certificate from Conception to Celebration : Register.At 4 p.m.: Fatherʼs Day Cards: K–5. Register.

• Tuesday, June 13 at 10:30 a.m.: Music with Miss Nita: ages 6 months to 4 years. Register. At 1 p.m.: Matinee “Moving On” (R). At 6 p.m.: Home Buyer Seminar: Register.

• Wednesday, June 14 at 4 p.m.: Fatherʼs Day Picture Frames: third grade and up. Register. At 6:50 p.m.: Friends of the Library Book Group.

• Thursday, June 15 at 10:30 a.m.: Beach Story Time: For 6 months to 4 years. Register. At 4 p.m.: Lego Challenge Club: Names. K–5; register.

T TOOWWNNSSHHIIP P O OF F

W WAASSHHIINNGGTTOON N 144 Woodfield Road (201) 664-4586

twpofwashingtonpl.org

•Monday, June 12 at 5:30 p.m.: Cartooning and Animation Styles Class: Grades 3–5. Register.

• Tuesdays, June 13 to Aug. 11 at 10 a.m.: Summer Story

Time for ages 2–5. Register. At 3:45 p.m.: Relax with Fiona. Register. At 5:30 p.m.: Mat Yoga, open to all levels of practice. Bring your own mat and props. $5 per class.

• Wednesday, June 14 at 6:30 p.m.: Summer Bingo Night, adults. Register.

• Thursday, June 15 6 to 7 p.m.: Social Stitching. June 15 through July 27 at 9:45 a.m.: Advanced Chair Yoga

• Fridays, June 16 to Aug. 11 at 10 a.m: Friday Friends Story Time to 2 years. Register.

• Friday, June 16 at 6 p.m.: Adult Coloring and Craft Group. Register.

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

• Be part of our Pride Month art project! Not only do we encourage reading the rainbow, we also are making a rainbow together. When you come to the library, grab the color of your choice and attach. Weʼll post pictures of the rainbowʼs progress.

•Monday, June 12:Exclusive Zoom visit with Maria Dong, author of “Liar, Dreamer, Thief,” a highly anticipated book of 2023. The book is a mystery thriller and very visual journey that you wonʼt

soon forget. We have two free copies to give away.

• June 23 we kick off our Summer Reading Program with

a fun in the park (a.k.a. BUBBLES).

[Westwood library has tons going on. Check it out!]

&

Joan’s Joy marks 50th with vigil, festival, and a new book

During this 50th anniversary year of Joanʼs passing and the beginning of her child safety legacy, a great deal is going on with the Joan Angela DʼAlessandro Memorial Foundation.

On April 19 a 50th anniversary vigil drew more than 100 people to the Joan Angela DʼAlessandro White Butterfly and Sculpture and Garden, which was lit in Joanʼs favorite colors, green and orange, by JVS Christmas Lighting.

The event highlighted how the spirit of Joanʼs legacy “is more alive today than ever through Joanʼs law and the many ways Joanʼs Foundation helps children to live in a safer, more supportive society. The message of standing up and doing something to help vulnerable children has spread and continues to resonate today.”

Local musician Tom Clancey played “Over the Rainbow” and emceed the event.

Free LED candles and 50th anniversary logo stickers were given out to all attendees.

The evening was broken up into five decades. For each there were speakers who were involved during the period represented, and a song was played from that

decade that Rosemarie said “conveyed the energy that was felt during the events that occurred.”

For example, “When You Believe” by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey was played for the

1990s to convey how Rosemarie never gave up despite insurmountable challenges when Joanʼs killer unexpectedly became eligible for parole in 1993.

Rosemarie then spoke about how a grassroots movement began and her advocacy work for Joanʼs law in New Jersey and on the federal level.

The foundation honors the memory of 7-years old Girl Scout Joan. It promotes child safety via programs its provides and legisla-

tion it advocates. The foundation moreover provides support to neglected and abused children through fun and educational excursions, and it helps victims of crime by way of consultation. Joanʼs story has brought hope through awareness and prevention. The lives of thousands will continue to benefit from the impact of her legacy.

Speakers included Olivia Galgano, Joanʼs ballet teacher, who discussed Joanʼs special leadership qualities and her talent in dance.

Jim Tobin was on the Hillsdale police force when Joan disappeared in 1973. He was one the first responders and he told the audience many details about how law enforcement came to arrest Joanʼs killer — and the townʼs involvement in the search for Joan.

Two of Joanʼs friends were at the vigil: Richard Shoop and John Moralishvili.

The last song played was

CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

Rosemarie D’Alessandro with sons John and Michael at Joan’s 50th anniversary vigil, Remembering Joan’s Light, April 19. More than 100 attended the event, which was organized around musical reflections of the past decades through the lens of Joan’s legacy. Courtesy photo.

A highlight of Joan Angela D’Alessandro Foundation’s 50th anniversary is this gift made for the vigil by a victim of sexual assault whom Rosemarie had assisted. Courtesy photos.

PASCACK VALLEY

Unanimous House clears measure against senior scams

U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimerʼs bipartisan Senior Security Act unanimously passed the House of Representatives. The legislation would help stop financial predators from scamming seniors out of their savings by creating a federal Senior Investor Task Force within the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to strengthen protections and safeguards for senior investors.

Gottheimer spoke on the House floor last week to urge Members of the House to support his bipartisan bill.

Companion bipartisan legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and Susan Collins (R-ME).

Gottheimerʼs office sent us a statement June 6: “Unfortunately, far too many of our seniors have had their hard-earned retirement savings stolen right out from under them when a scammer calls or shows up at their door. Millions of seniors across the country, including my own mother, have been the victims of financial scams, and far too many have been cheated out of their retirement savings. Itʼs appalling, itʼs offensive, and itʼs unacceptable,” he said.

Gottheimer (NJ-5), a member of the House Financial Services Committee, said “Today, the House passed my bipartisan legislation to take senior fraud and

scams head on, by helping the Securities and Exchange Commission and federal prosecutors crack down on senior-preying hucksters nationwide.”

Senior scams cost older Americans more than $36 billion a year, often hitting their retirement nest eggs. Senior scams have more than doubled since 2020. Unfortunately, only 1 in every 42 cases of elder exploitation actually gets reported.

H.R.2593 will establish the Senior Investor Task Force at the SEC, which will:

•Identify challenges that senior investors encounter, including problems associated with financial exploitation and cognitive decline;

• Identify areas in which senior investors would benefit from changes at the Commission or the rules of self-regulatory organizations;

•Coordinate, as appropriate, with other offices within the Commission and other taskforces that may be established within the Commission, self-regulatory organizations, and the Elder Justice Coordinating Council; and

•Consult, as appropriate, with state securities and law enforcement authorities, state insurance regulators, and other federal agencies.

The task force will submit a biennial report to Congress that includes:

•Summary of recent trends and innovations that have impacted the investment landscape for senior investors;

•Summary of initiatives that have concentrated on senior investors and industry practices related to senior investors;

•Key observations, best practices, and areas needing

improvement, involving senior investors identified during examinations, enforcement actions, and investor education outreach;

•Summary of the most serious issues encountered by senior investors, including issues involving financial products and services; and

• Recommendations for such

changes to the rules or guidance of the Commission and self-regulatory organizations and such legislative actions to resolve problems encountered by senior investors.

Gottheimerʼs bipartisan Senior Security Act is cosponsored by Representatives Ann Wagner (MO-2) and Mike Lawler (NY-17).

FROM PAGE 2

however, law enforcement officials canʼt be situated at or too close to polling locations due to voter intimidation laws.

The Hillsdale Borough Clerk confirmed that the Bergen County Boardof Elections communicated that Smith School is required to be used as a polling l ocation for residents who live in voting districts 3 and 6. S mith School is used on at least two days each school year (general elections in November and

p rimary elections in June).In s ome years, there is an added risk if there is a referendum like t here was this school year.

For the 2022–2023 school year, approximately 90% of the s chool districts in Bergen Count y did not use schools as polling locations, or did not schedule for schools to be in session on e lection days. A majority of school districts in Bergen County that are used as polling locat ions are closed on election days. It is common on election days for teachers to have prof essional development while school is not in session. If snow d ays that are built into the calendar are not utilized, then

schools can be closed on the p rimary election days in June.

In order to keep the students at Smith School safe, I i mplore the Hillsdale Board of E ducation to reconsider the 2023–2024 school calendar and not have school in session duri ng the general and primary election days.

Michael Kenduck H illsdale

Knights support food banks

To the editor: A S PARTOF the Knights of Columbus Food for Families Program, St. Thomas More Council 2188 Westwood/Hillsdale recently donated $2,000 in ShopRite gift cards to local food banks and organizations helping those in need.

We encourage everyone living in the Pascack Valley to make every effort to support local food banks as they struggle to meet the needs of our neighbors.

Sincerely,

Letizia on council run in Westwood

To the editor:

Joseph Bisi Park Ridge

MYHUSBANDAND I always knew Westwood was where we wanted to create our home. We planted our roots in Westwood nearly 10 years ago and now, with our 7-year-old daughter and 4year-old son, could not imagine raising our family anywhere else. Initially, the train and downtown were what attracted us to Westwood, but we remained for the safe neighborhoods, familyfriendly atmosphere, and warm people. I was immediately drawn to be involved in our new community.

With our first home repeatedly flooding and the dread of s ummer storms leav ing our neighborhood a mess, I started showing up to Council meetings to ask for help. People like Ray Arroyo, Beth Dell, and Chris Montana worked with us to secure grant funding from Trenton to improve the drainage system in our neighborhood. That experience underscored my belief that when a few determined and focused people get together, great things can happen even in government.

From that point on, I found myself hungry to leverage and build upon my education and background with purposeful community efforts. From the Historical Preservation Commission to the Planning and Zoning boards, to co-founding Celebrate Westwood with a robust umbrella of community and small-business-building programs, I found a confident voice and impactful stride in Westwood.

Running as a Republican doesnʼt come naturally to me. Like many, I see myself looking at the two major parties and have trouble fitting cleanly into either Each November, I zigzag across columns to vote for candidates based on platforms, not party affiliation. And that search for platform-first politics is what led me to confidently running as a Westwood Republican under the Always Westwood banner.

I align with a team of dedicated public servants who have remained steadfast in their focus on our local community, while abstaining from divisive, national controversies that are beyond the scope of our local government. The Always Westwood team has always stood for delivering high-quality services and infrastructure without onerous taxes, keeping our streets safe by equipping and training our

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Try something new

The brain does not like it if you are always doing the same thing.

Oone of the top three ways to improve memory is to perform novel or new activities. Many people are at home, sitting and working on the computer, sitting on the couch watching Netflix, sitting while playing video games, sitting while playing on social media, sitting while watching the news, sitting while browsing the internet, and and sitting while scrolling through their iPads. They are rarely learning new things.

If you want to improve your memory and focus, and prevent dementia and Alzheimerʼs disease, you must start doing new things, change up the things you already are doing, and do stuff that your brain is not used to doing.

I suggest you challenge your brain in different ways every single day. On Monday, do a word jumble, on Tuesday do a maze, on Wednesday do a crossword puzzle, on Thursday play Sudoku, on Friday play board games, on Saturday play cards, and on Sunday complete a jigsaw puzzle.

Every week try at least one new game that you have never played before because it will require using different areas of the brain.

It is very important to take care of our brains and learn new activities to ensure proper activation and create the most synaptic connections to function at the highest level.

As a result, your brain will undergo a process called neuroplas-

ticity and that will help prevent dementia, stroke, Alzheimerʼs disease, Parkinsonʼs disease, ADD, autism, headaches, dizziness, concussion and even Covid-19 long haulerʼs syndrome. Unfortunately, many of the long haulers have neurological symptoms such as brain fog, confusion, memory loss, loss of smell, headaches, trouble focusing, and changes in behavior. These long haulers have been getting a lot of improvement, in addition to more energy, better sleep, better digestion, better memory, and better skin after using the hyperbaric oxygen chamber (HBOT) in our Emerson office.

The HBOT is a machine that fills up with oxygen and increases the oxygen flow into the cells by changing the pressure inside the machine. Many professional athletes have been using this therapy for years, and now, many hospitals have started incorporating the HBOT therapy because it is so successful with helping people improve their health.

People with diabetes, obesity, and heart disease can change their health and their outcomes with improving their exercise routine.

Physical exercise is necessary for the brain and body, but also make sure you “switch it up.” It would be great to jog 1 mile one day, run a half a mile one day, sprint a hundred yard dash one day, take a long walk one day, power walk one day, hike one day, bike one day, swim one day, row a boat one day, and rollerblade one day.

It is also good to keep changing up the routine with weights, bands, or balls.

If I were to invest in an exercise machine it would be the rowing machine, the best workout that uses the most important muscle groups while causing the least strain on the joints. If you donʼt want to get a machine or go the gym, there are

Sons come through

plenty of online classes like Crossfit, Cycling, Karate, Pilates, HIIT, Yoga, Tai Chi, Zumba, Hip-Hop Dance, Boot Camps, as well as home programs like P90X or Insanity.

Other novel activities that do not involve physical challenges include learning a different language, skill, or art form. Learn how to play an instrument, or how to sew or knit. Start painting, drawing, sculpting or origami. Read different book genres and go outside your comfort zone. The point is to keep looking for novelty.

Start brushing your teeth or your hair with your non-dominant hand. Walk sideways or wear only one shoe. Visit places you have never been and perform activities you have never done. Read a book upside down.

Remember peopleʼs phone numbers and the next time you see them, they will be very impressed. Try spelling backwards, writing backwards, and even walking backwards. These simple changes will help you improve your memory, increase your brain function, improve your quality of life, and will help you to function better, feel better, and live better.

The best test that measures your brain waves and can tell you what areas of the brain are not working well is called a qEEG brain mapping. It may be appropriate for you if you have ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, troubles with focus or memory, motivation, pain, autism, pain, brain fog, have low energy, poor sleep, bad headaches, or dizziness. Just say you read my article and if you are one of the first seven people that respond, you can receive the entire brain mapping ($500 value) for only $21. Email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to be one of the first seven people to take advantage of this gift.

HILLSDALE

THE SONSOF the American Legion Post 162 — Hillsdale, Woodcliff Lake, Old Tappan (SAL 162) — repainted the townʼs 98year old police booth, an iconic symbol of the community, on the 79th anniversary of D-Day, June 6. SAL 162 worked closely with the town administration and DPW in planning and site preparation for the work, which included minor facade repairs.

A team of about a dozen SAL members descended on the booth on an evening in which the sky was thick with smoke from the Canadian wildfires. That did not dampen the spirit of the volunteers and their many “moral supporters” who showed up to offer encouragement, appreciation, and painting tips — the latter not really necessary, as three members of the volunteer team are professional painters. All offerings were graciously accepted.

“Weʼre delighted to have been able to help plan and execute this work, especially considering the upcoming events commemorating the 125th anniversary of Hillsdale,” SAL162 commander John Hering told Pascack Press on June 8.

He said members thank Councilman Anthony DeRosa, also a SAL member, “for helping us coordinate this with the town and with the town administration and DPW for all their efforts in helping us bring this to fruition.”

He said, “Projects like this are the very foundation of what the Sons of the American Legion represents, as we honor the memory of our parents or other relatives who served in the military and help give back to the communities they protected and fought for.”

He added, “Weʼre always looking for a few good men to help us in this effort..” Visit americanlegionpost162.org

It is not recommended to be a creature of habit, so make sure you “switch it up.”

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Zoltan Horvath

Getting it done: Sons of the American Legion members,left to right:Michael Umphlett,vice commander Dennis Cesa,Bruno Taveroni,commander John Hering,treasurer Rick Winkler,chaplain Bob Karlson,and Hillsdale councilman Anthony DeRosa.

Local teen Lainey Svorec joins U.S. Navy Reserve

Lainey Svorec is no stranger to service. A dedicated Girl Scout who earned her Silver Award for patient advocacy, an animal lover known to request donations for animal shelters instead of birthday gifts, and someone who has donated her hair to children facing hair loss due to illness, she is known by very many as mature, passionate, and driven.

With deep love and respect for our country, she has long been interested in serving. After considering her many options in the U.S. Armed Forces, she elected to commit to the Navy Reserve.

A Pascack Valley High S chool senior, Svorec has received the Star Student Award several times for positive character and strong leadership. A creative student who appreciates nature and style, sheʼs made much of electives in photography, clothing design, and ceramics.

Svorec will head off to Illinois for 10 weeks of boot camp after graduation. Afterward she reports for job training as an aerographerʼs mate, or “AG.”

The U.S. Navy explains of the career posting, “We canʼt control the weather. But our

The U.S. Navy explains, “We can’t control the weather. But our aerographer’s mates can predict almost every detail to make sure Navy forces succeed in any physical environment. As an AG, you are the expert in meteorology and oceanography.” U.S. Navy photo.

aerographerʼs mates can predict almost every detail to make sure Navy forces succeed in any physical environment. As an AG, you are the expert in meteorology and oceanography. Youʼll use skills in science and math to calculate weather patterns, analyze data and distribute forecasts to ships and squadrons around the world, providing accurate measures of

HILLSDALE

air pressure, temperature, wind speed and sea state. As an aerographerʼs mate, youʼre not just a ʻweathermanʼ— youʼre an integral member of the Information Warfare Community, aiding us with critical knowledge in any battlespace.”

When Svorec returns from her 18-week assignment at Keesler Air Force base in Mississippi, she will begin her college career at the University of Rhode Island, where she p lans to study marine biology.

Svorec will continue to serve in the U.S. Navy Reserve as a full-time student at the University of Rhode Island.

SIGNUPFOR CAMP LITTLE HAWKS

Hillsdale Recreation presents Hillsdale & River Valeʼs Camp Little Hawks, for Hillsdale, River Vale, and St. Johnʼs Academy children entering kindergarten.

Camp runs June 26–July 28, Monday–Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Certified teacher supervision! Arts & crafts, swim (kiddie pool with lifeguards), Mad Science, music, dance, STEM,

sports, optional preordered lunch on swim days, two field trips/special events. Before and after care is available.

This is a great way for your kids to make friends heading into kindergarten.

For more information, visit hillsdalenj.org/summerdaycamp, call Jill at (201) 497-1542, or email jcohn@hillsdalenj.org.

Lainey Svorec will head off to Illinois for 10 weeks of boot camp after graduation. Then she r e ports for job training as an aerographer’s mate. Courtesy 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

Letters:

FROM PAGE 22

police, and ensuring that development is reasonable, responsible, and serves the needs of our residents — not the desires of developers or politicians in Trenton. We stand for working with our business owners to make West-

Post 206, Westwood scouts

To the editor:

OURAMERICAN LEGION Post #206 in Westwood recently ran an event with the Westwood Boy Scouts to honor veterans for Memorial Day and place flags on their graves in the Westwood

wood a place people want to shop, dine, and visit.

Moreover, we stand for making sure that whoever you are, you know you can come to a meeting or send us an email, and be involved in the governance of your home town. I want to stand with the team that has consistently proven it will stand for you.

I am proud to be running on a ticket that believes strongly in that message. I believe strongly in

cemetery. We started off the day at the Westwood legion, where the post made breakfast for about 35 scouts. After that we headed out to the Westwood cemetery to replace old flags on gravesites and add new ones for our local veterans.

Great teamwork between the Westwood Legion and the Westwood Boy Scouts for a very worthy event!

Bill Henderson Westwood

Westwood and look forward to sharing my ideas and perspective with you in the coming months. And when I do, I think you will see that my intent has always been Always Westwood.

Lauren Letizia Westwood

Cheering on Troop 80 Eagle Scouts

To the editor:

THISPASTWEEKEND I had the pleasure of attending Troop 80ʼs Eagle Court of Honor, where

Hats off to Hillsdale fire veterans

To the editor:

OVER 50 YEARSAGO, in 1973, Chief Mark Durst, ex-Chief Wiliam “Bill” Becker and exChief Keith Durie joined the Hillsdale Fire Department. They were the first group to join under the age of 21.

Thank you for your many years of service to a grateful Hillsdale and surrounding community! Volunteers are the heart and soul of any great community.

Zoltá n Horvá th Hillsdale Councilman and fire commissioner

the troop honored five exceptional young men for achieving the distinguished Eagle Scout rank: Paul Belasic, Brian Friedlander, Thomas Hopper, Donald Keating and Dean Rehak.

Becoming an Eagle Scout is a significant accomplishment that requires years of hard work, demonstrated leadership, and the completion of a service project which typically involves hundreds of hours of commitment. These g entlemen have proven themselves to be admirable role models for their peers and for future generations of scouts.

As a Troop 80 Eagle myself (c. 2008), I am delighted to see how scouting continues to thrive

in Park Ridge. These gentlemen, along with the other boys in the troop, are continually improving our town, whether it be a community cleanup at Mill Pond or helping the Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee with the events we put on every year, to name just a few of their contributions.

Special recognition is also due to the troop leaders and families for their perpetual encouragement and support. I look forward to celebrating Troop 80ʼs one hundredth anniversary later this year. My heartfelt congratulations go out to Troop 80ʼs newest Eagles.

Greg Hoffman Park Ridge

Hillsdale

50

Volunteer Fire Department

Years of Service Recognition Ceremony, May 21, 2023, honoring Chief Mark Durst, ex-chief Wiliam “Bill” Becker, and ex-chief Keith Durie. Zoltán Horváth photo.

Brendan Noone and Gavin Stewart make Eagle Scout

Troop 108 recently held an Eagle Scout Court of Honor to c ommend two of their own –B rendan Noone and Gavin Stewart — for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.

A ccording to the Eagle Court of Honor Program, Troop 108 has inducted 80 young men into this prestigious level of S couting since 1948.

The Eagle Scout rank is the highest rank attainable in the p rogram of Boy Scouts of America (BSA). This well-recognized rank was first awarded in 1912 and since then, more than two m illion Scouts have earned the noteworthy rank.

Requirements include earni ng at least 21 merit badges with each badge displayed on a merit badge sash as part of the Boy Scout uniform. Each Scout comp letes requirements of various ranks during their years in Scouting, culminating in the f ull-fledged rank of Eagle Scout.

Brendan joined scouting in the first grade as a Cub Scout in Pack 81. He joined Troop 108 in March 2015. For his Eagle Scout Project, he created three shelter bins for feral cats, 30 fleece blankets, and held a food/supply drive for Cat Crew Rescue of Oradell, a non-profit organization that rescues and finds homes for feral cats.

According to Brendan, the shelter bins provide homes for outdoor cats. The fleece blankets give the cats warmth and are given to owners after an adoption of a cat.

Brendan is attending Ithaca

College in the Finger Lakes region of New York.

Gavin began his scouting journey in 2010 with Cub Scout Pack 81 in Hillsdale. He went on to join Troop 108 and held three positions within the Troop: Quartermaster, Patrol Leader, and Senior Patrol Leader. In fulfilling the requirements of Eagle rank, Gavin also earned a Bronze Palm and a Gold Palm, as well as 31 Merit badges. An Eagle Palm is awarded for continued leadership and skills development after the Eagle Scout rank has been earned.

Gavinʼs Eagle Scout Service Project involved building six Palmer Doll Houses to benefit the Westwood Fire Department and he worked on this spe-

Taking wing: Brendan N oone (left) and Gavin Stewart (right) were recently awarded the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. The talented young men are members of Boy Scout Troop 108 in Hillsdale.

cial project with his fellow s couts and family members. According to Captain Scott Stewart of the Westwood Fire D epartment, Palmer Doll House s are used as an important training tool for firefighters to show how ventilation affects a h ouse fire.

After completing the construction of six Palmer Doll H ouses, Gavin also helped coordinate a demonstration led by Westwood firefighters during

which a Palmer Doll House was lighted and comparisons were m ade about the presence and e ffects of air on the fire.

Gavin was employed by NoBeBosCo as a Camp Couns elor during the summers of 2021 and 2022, holding the positions of Counselor at Large i n the Nature Department and Assistant Quartermaster.

The Boy Scout motto is “Be Prepared.” These young m en who have recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout will undoubtedly always be prep ared throughout their lives to accomplish great things.

The adult leaders of Boy Scout Troop 108 are Scoutmast er Anthony Guzman, and Assistant Scoutmaster Matthew Baker and Carlos Guzman.

COLORS HELD HIGH

WOMENHOSTAUTHOR OF ‘COZY’ KNIT & NIBBLEMYSTERIES

The Knights of Columbus, Council 4486 at Our Lady of Mercy Church, Park Ridge along with the Color Corps from Joseph F. Lamb Assembly Council 665 — and many other groups — lent their strength to the annual Memorial Day Parade sponsored by American Legion Post 153.

As in past years, observances started with a 9 a.m. service in the three towns followed by a parade originating in Montale through Park Ridge and terminating in Woodcliff Lake.

Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna later told residents, “This Memorial Day I was honored and humbled to attend and speak at the Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by the Jedh C. Barker Memorial Post 153 of the American Legion. Together, we gathered to remember the fallen. Itʼs our job to remember these fine men and women and to be thankful for their sacrifice and the sacrifice of their families and loved ones.”

He said, “Although we went back to our busy lives, please

remember what these brave soldiers did for all of us. God bless them, their families and the United States of America.”

To the members of the Jedh C. Barker Memorial Post 153, Misciagna said, “As you celebrate over 100 years of service to our community and this great country, I thank you for all you do. Thank you for hosting the Memorial Day ceremony and parade each year and may you continue your important work for another 100-plus years.”

Peggy Ehrhart was guest speaker at a recent meeting of the Past PresidentsʼClub of the Palisades District, at the Clubhouse on Kinderkamack Road in Westwood. Ehrhart holds a doctorate in Medieval Literature from the University of Illinois and taught writing and literature at Queens College, CUNY, and Fairleigh Dickinson University, where she was a tenured professor She is the author of the Knit & Nibble mystery series, for Kensington Books, featuring Pamela Paterson, founder and mainstay of the Arborville knitting club, nicknamed Knit & Nibble. She says on her website, PeggyEhrhart.com, “The setting for the Knit & Nibble series is a charming New Jersey town rather like mine. The Knit & Nibble theme reflects the fact that Iʼm a long-time knitter and an enthusiastic cook.”

The club adds, “She writes cozy mysteries. A cozy mystery is a comfort read that leaves you

satisfied and at one with the world, rather than scared to sleep alone with the lights out. It usually is upbeat, optimistic, and lighthearted.”

For information about The Womanʼs Club of Westwood, call the membership chairman at (201) 916-1580.

The Knights of Columbus, Council #4486 at Our Lady of Mercy Church, Park Ridge along with the Color Corps from the Joseph F. Lamb Assembly Council #665, participate in the annual Memorial Day Parade sponsored by the American Legion Post #153, Park Ridge.

With author Peggy Ehrhart:Susan Fosdick,president of the Past Presidents’ Club of the Palisades District; Marie Sullivan,chair,Special State Project Emmanuel Cancer Foundation;and Shelly Rothstein,past president,Woman’s Club of Paramus. Club photo.

SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY...AND BEYOND

When looking for a firm to help you work toward your financial goals –whether itʼs affording retirement, helping a child or grandchild pay for higher education, or making a luxury purchase, such as vacation home – you obviously want to find one with the resources you need.

a better place. At Wells Fargo & Company, for example, all employees are called to:

• Be leaders

• Be engaged and connected in our communities

ERIC KOHLMEIER

But I think thereʼs more to it than that; you should seek one thatʼs committed to supporting our community and helping make the world

• Value and promote diversity and inclusion in every aspect of our business

One way employees are encouraged to be leaders is by becoming members of board of directors at nonprofit organizations.

We know that employees play a valuable role in improving the lives of individuals and families, and board service is one way of demon-

strating commitment to our communities.

To help deal with the significant time commitment that a board membership, or other charitable activity, can represent, Wells Fargo & Co. allots each employee 16 hours of paid time per year to be used exclusively for volunteer work.

In addition, the Community Care Grants program, governed and funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation, recognizes employees for their financial giving and volunteer service activities – including board service. Through this program, an employee can qualify for up to $2,000 per year in Community Care

Grants. Once an employee has received a grant, they can choose which eligible charities theyʼd like to support by directing the funds to any of the approximately one million eligible charities.

Leveraging our strengths

While our primary motivation is the chance to help others, we also see participating in community leadership as an opportunity for employees to commit to a cause, issue, or organization where they have an affinity and a passion. This experience can help them leverage their strengths and expertise, develop new skills, and tackle new challenges.

Investment and Insurance Products are:

• Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency

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

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

On top of that, volunteering offers a variety of development opportunities, including hands-on learning, either on the job or through volunteer activities or special assignments. Volunteering helps us to:

• Positively shape our communities

• Expand community connec-

tions with others where we live and work

• Expand our networks, gain visibility, and build business acumen

• Build greater insight by being a “voice” for inclusion and build diversity awareness and cultural competence.

Promoting diversity

As the last bullet above shows, Wells Fargo & Co. focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our strategic framework is focused on driving outcomes in three key areas:

•Workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion outcomes (recruitment, development, engagement, and retention)

•Marketplace outcomes (growing market share in diverse market segments and identifying new and improving existing relationships with diverse suppliers)

•Diversity, equity, and inclusion advocacy activities (supporting regulatory, external-relationship, and reputation-building efforts as well as personal accountability for diversity, equity, and inclusion advocacy)

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

PVHS Jazz Bands Bring the Hot Sounds of Summer

With summer on its way, the Pascack Valley High School Jazz Band and Chamber Jazz Ensemble are about to embark on a June tour spreading warm and joyous sounds to local audiences.

Fresh off recent performances at the PVHS Spring Band Concert and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Essentially Ellington Regional Jazz Festival, the bands are excited for these three local performances that are open to the public.

Directed by Pascack Valley band director, and acclaimed jazz saxophonist Craig Yaremko, the PV Jazz Band is devoted to playing big band repertoire by the likes of Duke Ellington and Thad Jones, while the PV Chamber Jazz Ensemble, is a small group that plays classics from the jazz repertoire and focuses on improvisation.

Both groups feature students who have earned places in NJ Region and All-State Ensembles and study at famed jazz education institutions such as Jazz House

Kids, as well as vocalists who include a recent American Idol contestant.

The June tour begins at the River Vale FarmersʼMarket (rivervalenj.org/219/Farmers-Market ) on Thursday, June 8 where the the PV Chamber Jazz Ensemble opens at 3:30 p.m., followed by the Craig Yaremko Organ Trio at 4.

On Saturday, June 10 at 2 p.m., the PV Jazz Band heads to Beachwood Park in Hillsdale to perform a set of big band jazz at the Hillsdale Art and Music Festival.

And to close out the tour, the PV Chamber Jazz Ensemble performs at the newest Bergen County Jazz Club, Brush Culture, in Teaneck on Tuesday, June 13 at 7 p.m. This evening features one set followed by a jam session with noted drummer and Brush Club owner Rodney Green. Reservations for this event can be made at https://brvshcul7ur3.com

For more information, visit pvhsmusic.org

HILLSDALE

E dith BROWN

Edith Brown, 85, of Mahwah, formerly of Township of Washington for over 35 years, passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2023.

She is predeceased by her husband, Laurence Brown and her parents, Edward and Kate Brueckner. She is survived by her first cousin, Veronica Krause, and other first cousins. Closest friends with Walter and Sandra White, and their three daughters: Christine White, Heather Boyle and Whitney Castellvi.

Edith had been a teacher for 42 years in the Bergenfield Public Schools and was passionate about young children. She graduated from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University ) and Columbia University Teachers College. Edith was a philanthropist for many charities as well as an eucharistic minister at Saint Andrews R.C.Church in Westwood.

The funeral Mass celebrating Edithʼs life and faith was held at St. Elizabeth R.C. Church, 700 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff on Wednesday, June 7 at 10:30 a.m.

Alice R. BUSCH

Alice R. Busch, 94, of Orangeburg, N.Y., formerly of Palisades Park, passed away on Sunday, May 28, 2023. Alice is survived by her three children, Deborah Lockwood of Hamburg, N.J., Candace Phillips of River Vale, and William Jr. of Palisades Park and their spouses; nine granddaughters as well as 17 beloved great-grandchildren.

She is predeceased by her loving husband, William Sr.

Alice was born at her home in Palisades Park in 1928 to Herman and Mabel (née Gladstone) Zwemke. She attended and graduated Leonia High School, was a member of Grace Lutheran

OBITUARIES

Church in Palisades Park and worked last at Tile Wholesale in Palisades Park. She lived most of her life in Palisades Park, moving to Barnegat for 10 years before moving to Brightview Lake Tappan in Orangeburg, N.Y. in 2018.

Alice married the love of her life, William Busch Sr., in Ridgefield, July 9, 1949 and spent 55 loving years together before his passing in 2005.

She was known as Maima to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and will be sorely missed.

Robert P. TUMMINELLI

Robert P. Tumminelli, 81, of Westwood, formerly of Lodi, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 28, 2023. Robert is survived by his beloved daughter Brenda Finley and his son and daughter in law Brett and Tracey; h is grandchildren David, Matthew, Celeste and Sara; as well as his dear friend, Rosemary Egan.

He is predeceased by his wife Barbara.

Robert served in The United States Army and then was a police officer for the Township of Washington, retiring as a sergeant after 26 years.

Bob was passionate about his classic cars, boats, and having a great time with his friends and family.

Robert J. MILLER

Robert J. Miller, 90, of Paramus and formerly of Park Ridge passed away peacefully on Monday, May 22, 2023.

Beloved husband of the late June for 59 years.

Devoted father of Theresa Smith and the late Dennis, Christopher Miller (Trish), Matthew Miller (Maryann), Mary

PRHS CLASS OF 1973 50THANNIVERSARY REUNION SEPT. 30

Park Ridge High Schoolʼs Class of 1973 holds its 50th reunion celebration on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott in Montvale. Graduates from other classes are invited to attend.

This is a wonderful opportunity to see old friends while enjoying music, dancing, and a hot buffet. Several events have been planned for the weekend: On Friday night, the class will be featured at the homecoming football game, followed by an informal gathering at the American Legion. Saturday morning will feature a tour of the high school and a Sunday brunch is being scheduled. This promises to be a fun, memorable weekend.

50th anniversary apparel may be purchased at https://park-ridge-high-

Bozza (Doug), Patricia Roden (Keith), Sean Miller and the late Bobby Miller. Dear brother of George Miller and his wife Shane. Cherished grandfather of Matthew Bridget, Mary, Robert, Michael, Brian, Megan, Kelly, Michael, Taylor and Mackenzie. Great grandfather of Brayden, Kellan, Molly, Juliana and Ava. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Bob retired from AT&T in 1986 as director of operations. In his retirement he was a career counselor for both his home community and Fordham University. He later worked in his brother Georgeʼs company G. E. Miller Supplies as a sales representative for surgical supplies.

He was an active parishioner of Our Lady of Mercy R. C. Church, he was a founding member of the Nocturnal Adoration Society and a member for 50 years, he was a Eucharistic Minister, a member of the Lazarus Committee, the church choir and church picnic committee. He planted flowers every season at the church. He was an active member of the KOC and was a United States Army veteran of the Korean War.

In lieu of flowers please donate in memory of Bob to New Hope Pregnancy Resource Center, 149 Third Ave., Westwood, NJ 07675.

John A. GALASSO

John A. Galasso, 75, of Woodcliff Lake, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 25, 2023. Beloved husband of Michele for 53 years. Devoted father of Christine Lara and her husband Marcos, Donna Feldhan and her husband David. Dear brother of Richard Galasso and Tina Linardi. Cherished grandfather of Mark Lara. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

John was NE Rail Terminal Operations Director for Pacer

Stacktrain for 15 years. He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Mercy Church. He was an avid train hobbyist and “railfanner” with his grandson Mark.

In lieu of flowers please make donations in memory of John to Tunnel to Towers, www.t2t.org.

Cheryl MATZ

Cheryl Matz, 79, of River Vale, formerly of Hasbrouck Heights and Hoboken, passed away on May 26, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. A beloved wife and proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Cheryl is survived by her devoted husband Werner (Ray); loving children Kim and Frank Merli, Rae Ann and James Moirano, and Richard and Antonia Calabro-Matz; her grandchildren Frank and Michele (Tormey) Merli, Andrew Merli and Lauren (Kubler) and John Bruppacher as well as her great-grandchildren Kaylin, Mac, and Ricky Merli.

Cheryl is also survived by her sisters Barbara Berke, Michele Walker-Fox, Dawn Wade, Sister Donna Jo Repetti, Jody Belcher and her brother Daniel Repetti as well as many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her parents Arnold and Doris Repetti.

Cheryl attended AJ Demarest High School in Hoboken, where she met the love of her life, Ray. The two were married in 1965 after Ray was discharged from the U.S. Army. They enjoyed building their life and family together for over 57 years.

Cherylʼs love of children was evident as she spent many years working at Lily Pond Country Day School, KinderCare, and as a favorite lunch aid at Roberge

School. Cheryl loved bingo, trips to Disney, Atlantic City, cruises, “Law and Order,” game shows, Dunkinʼ(not Starbucks) coffee and any time spent with her husband, kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. Cheryl was quick with a sarcastic or humorous comment. If she liked you, you knew it. If she didnʼt, you knew that too. (Hence the sarcastic comments.)

The Matz family expresses its deepest gratitude to Dr. Steven Welish, Sarah Bornstein P.A., Dr. Diane Triolo and the compassionate nursing and support staff at Holy Name Hospital. The care they gave extended well beyond medicine and we are eternally grateful.

Memorial contributions can be made in Cherylʼs name to Holy Name Hospital at foundation@holyname.org or American Legion Post #162, 98 Legion Place, Hillsdale, NJ 07642.

In recognition of Cherylʼs wishes, a private memorial service will be held in her honor. Share fond memories and condolences at Becker-FuneralHome.com.

Linda Grossi RUOCCO

Linda Grossi Ruocco, 75, of Emerson, passed away peacefully on Friday June 2, 2023. Survived by beloved husband Ralph, brother Alex, niece Melissa, Lily and Mark.

She lived in Emerson, Point Pleasant Beach, and Little Egg Harbor.

The viewing is on Monday, June 12 at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Funeral Mass at Assumption R.C. Church, Emerson at 11. Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Hackensack. Arrangements by Becker Funeral Home. Becker-funeralhome.com

school-class-of-73.square.site

For registration, tickets and more information visit reunionmanger.com

Summer class, specialty camp registration open

Itʼs time to make summer activity plans with the Westwood Recreation Department. Residents and neighbors can take part in tennis clinics and soccer squirts in July and specialty camps in August by registering via Community Pass at https://register.communitypass.net/westwood

On the class schedule for Summer: Soccer Squirts where toddlers/preschoolers will learn the fundamental skills of soccer, including dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending; tennis for kids in grades K-8 with certified USTA instructors who teach basic tennis techniques in a fun and engaging environment; tennis for adults includes tennis basics with dynamic warm-ups, skill developments drills, and games that develop core skills and understanding of the sport rules and etiquette.

August specialty camps include TGA Tennis & Golf Camps for Grades K-8 at West-

wood High School; USSI MultiSports Camp for ages 5-11 at Brookside Park and Lego Camp for grades K-5. Details on August camps can be found at westwoodnj.gov/recreation in the Summer Program Guide.

In addition, residents and neighbors are reminded that registration for the six-week Summer Playground Program is underway as is Westwood Recreation PreSchool registration for the 202324 school year. Details for both programs can be found at woodnj.gov/recreation

The Westwood Recreation Department uses Community Pass for its registration process. Interested participants who do not already have a Community Pass account can go to westwoodnj.gov/recreation and click the Community P tration Page to be guided through the process.

To register for classes go to https://register.communitypass.net/we

stwood Visa and MasterCard are accepted. To pay by cash/check, stop in the office at 55 Jefferson Ave.

Residents and neighbors who participate in Westwood Recreation programs will receive infor-

mation on upcoming classes in programs guides, emails and on social media.

Those interested in learning more about facility rentals including the use of the newly renovated kitchen for private events or for

use by professional chefs and catering companies are encouraged to contact Recreation Director Gary Buchheister at (201) 664-7882 or gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov. Westwood Recreation programs and forms are listed at westwoodnj.gov/recreation

PASCACK VALLEY

Joan’s Joy:

FROM PAGE 20

“Hope” by Natasha Bedingfield.

The story of the heart of hope rock found on June 5, 2021, the day it was learned that Joanʼs killer died

C Caasse e h i s t o or r y

ON THURSDAY, April 19,

1973 Joan DʼAlessandro, a joyful, brave, 7-year-old Brownie Scout, was delivering Girl Scout cookies to her neighbor when she disappeared. A high school chemistry teacher who lived three doors down later pled guilty to her murder. After Joan was sexually assaulted and murdered, the Girl Scouts changed their rules for all children to prevent another such tragedy.

When Joanʼs killer became eligible for parole in 1993, mother, Rosemarie DʼAlessandro organized a letter writing, green ribbon campaign that led officials to deny the parole. Green was Joanʼs favorite color. The ribbon symbolizes “Remember Joan Today So Tomorrowʼs Children Will Be Safe.”

The idea that a child murderer could be released from prison spurred Rosemarie to work for a mandatory no parole sentencing law.

After three years of lobbying, a bill denying the possibility of parole to offenders who murder while committing a sex crime was passed by the NJ Legislature in April 1997.

Following that victory, Rosemarie spearheaded a successful campaign for a federal version of Joanʼs Law, which was signed by President Bill Clinton in October 1998.

All the while her daughterʼs killer continued to file appeals to his sentence paid for by a sizeable inheritance. This led Rosemarie to protect victims by designing a bill eliminating New Jerseyʼs twoyear statute of limitations on suing murderers, which passed in November 2000.

Joanʼs Law became the law in New York State in 2004. Rosemarieʼs sons Michael and John, born after Joan was murdered, were advocates for the legislation.

In addition to her legislative efforts, Rosemarie reaches out to abused and neglected children through The Joan Angela DʼAlessandro Memorial Foundation she established in 1998. In 2004 she received the Attorney Generalʼs Special Courage Award for her efforts.

Via Surviving Parents Coalition

(in prison) was told by Ernie Van Den Heuvel.

There were lighted display tables at the anniversary event, including one that showed photos of some of the major happenings in the case and related efforts during the past 50 years.

Of the crowd and energy at the vigil, Rosemarie told Pascack Press, “Do you see what the people are starting to do? Theyʼre starting to understand about their light. Joan is doing a lot.”

She reflected on Galganoʼs remarks about Joan in ballet:

“Joan would go — the first one to be in line, because [her view was]

ʻLetʼs go, everybody, weʼve got a lot to get done!ʼSo they can see a lot, between me and her.”

Video of the vigil is posted at https://youtu.be/SCBwnZrq-cg

Yard Sale

Donations Sought

After holding the event annually since 2007, the foundation is planning its final yard sale, June 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a rain date of June 25. Donations of new and gently used items, espe-

cially newer clothes, are sought. Write rosebd@email.com

Rosemarieʼs New Book

At the yard sale, pre-orders will be taken for “The Message of Light Amid Letters of Darkness,” by Rosemarie Birri DʼAlessandro, which will be available to look at in prototype form.

The book includes 325 letters written by Joanʼs murderer to a pen pal that Rosemarie says “will leave the reader spellbound by the intrigue.” This unique book tells the parallel story of Rosemarieʼs experiences and the challenges she had to go through.

“The book, which is a combination of true crime and memoir, has lots of areas that the reader can relate and connect with. It is expected to ship in August and proceeds from the sale of the book will benefit the foundation,” Rosemarie says.

Child Safety Fest

Sept. 30

The Ninth Annual Joanʼs Joy child Safety Fest is planned for Sept. 30 at The Joan Angela DʼA-

lessandro White Butterfly Garden. The date is significant as it will be exactly 30 years since the noparole vigil was held at Veterans Park and the child safety movement began. The event will feature a tricky tray raffle, balloon twisting and face painting along with live music and special surprises.

Related News

Recently a law to expand Joanʼs law was introduced in New York State.

The Joanʼs Joy Relaxation and Kindness Program is now in five schools. The program helps

reduce stress for children and can even prevent bullying.

The third Joanʼs Joy Stand Up and Do Something scholarship was recently awarded to a Pascack Valley High school senior recognizing them for standing up for someone in need — finding strength in their own voice to speak up even if it was hard for them to do.

For the latest info go to J oansJoy.org and click on the Facebook page link. The foundation seek volunteers who would like to help prepare for the yard sale or help promote the book.

Pride:

FROM PAGE 6

Township, with rainbow bubbles as a backdrop.

She said she was worried that Rota might still view the alternate Pride sign as a special interest issue.

Fox said she had concerns when the school board adopted its flag policy, 6-2, on May 11. Voting against were Andrea Peck and Jason Garcia. However, the policy does not mention indoor flags, or signs, but only limits outside flags to be flown to the U.S. and state flags.

Fox said she hoped the superintendent would allow the alternate sign to be displayed at least through graduation on June 22.

Despite dozens of pleas from parents and students on May 11 to allow for the display of a Pride flag in June during Pride Month, the board did not approve it. Following the vote, Pontillo sent it back to the Policy Committee to determine whether any rewrites were necessary. It was not clear whether they would further consider a Pride flag display on an outside district flag pole.

Peck, who opposed the policy, said it banned celebratory flags from being flown around district buildings. She said then that, “acknowledging human rights from those who may have been oppressed, marginalized or bullied should be allowed.”

She suggested the Pride flag might be displayed in another outside location, or on another pole around the school building, but that was not included in the policy.

At a lively, packed regional board meeting on May 11, Fox said after the policy was approved, she had to excuse herself as she nearly had a panic attack.

“I donʼt feel listened to. I donʼt feel safe up on this stage, I had to leave after people disagreed with putting a flag in the school because thereʼs no effort in trying to make this better, in trying to make this a better place for the (LGBTQ) students that have been speaking these past meetings,” she told board members and residents at the meeting.

She said, “When I first started questioning my sexuality I was lucky to have a family that talks about other sexualities, other families. But other people donʼt have that privilege and that can be so unsafe and so dangerous for them. So learning about it in school gives them that validation, that their sexuality, however they feel, is valid and a real thing.”

She said, “When I did eventually come out to my family, one of the first things my mom did was buy me socks with rainbows on them, which Iʼm actually wearing right now.” At that, several dozen

audience members rose and applauded.

She said her mother and others in her family have put up rainbow stickers and Pride flags around their home. “And that has just reminded me that Iʼm valid, that Iʼm safe in that house.” She said it “makes it that much better” to have Pride flags throughout her house.

She said when a teacher displays a rainbow sticker or Pride flag in a classroom, “it makes a difference, and I need you to listen to us and I need you to understand how difficult it is to be a queer kid in high school no matter what, itʼs hard.”

She noted, “Having that safety, it makes it this much easier, and that can make a difference, that can be lifesaving. So I just really need to urge you guys to continue listening to us, please.”

Pontillo thanked Fox for sharing her views, noting “I donʼt think anyone here disrespects your opinion. And I think whatʼs important to realize is that the policy passed tonight does not prohibit the display of flags inside schools. It doesnʼt change any of the past practices that have been in the district and thereʼs no one here trying to do that.”

He said no trustee would prevent Pride flags from display inside school buildings for Pride Month. “So I hope that some people find comfort in that,” he said, adding he did not feel any school trustee “was on a crusade against the LGBTQIA+ community.”

Trustee Jason Garcia said that he appreciated Foxʼs point of view, noting he was there to listen. He said he appreciated all the students expressing themselves at board meetings.

You can train to teach ESL

Make a difference in your community:Volunteer to teach English as a Second Language!

Since 1982, Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley has been training volunteers to teach English to adults in their community. This online workshop is run by certified trainers and the program is an accredited member of Proliteracy.

Upon completion of the workshop, LVPV will match each volunteer with an appropriate student.

This workshop is open to residents of Allendale, Cresskill, Dumont, Emerson, Franklin

Lakes, Hillsdale, Lodi, Montvale, Paramus, Park Ridge, Ramsey, River Vale, Teaneck and Westwood. Tutoring may be remote or in person, depending on your preference.

Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley is pleased to announce the next online foursession Tutor Training Workshop on Aug. 1, 8, 15, and 22 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Volunteers must be 18 or older. Contact Marilyn Katz or Cheryl Chang at literacyvolunteerspv@gmail.com to register. You may also register at literacyvolunteerspv.org/tutor-training-workshopform.html

“Meanwhile, Iʼve learned so much from you students. I appreciate you guys and I appreciate the community coming out and we support you. Thank you for talking and speaking up,” Garcia said.

Peck thanked Fox for her viewpoint and “being so brave.” She said she disagreed with two previous statements that Pontillo had made allegedly speaking on her behalf. She said she would be willing to work with trustee Garcia and “would be happy to do so.”

Moreover, she said she was willing to work with any board member. In addition, she noted she also asked to be on the ad hoc committee reviewing age-appropriateness of the state sex education curriculum and was not appointed to the committee.

She said she wondered why she was not included on the committee. (She and Garcia had both asked to be on the committee but were not included by Pontillo.)

Peck also alleged that Pontillo included her name on a board apology to the Westwood Education Association without her permission. She said she was “hopeful that going forward” board members would work together to back up the sentiments expressed in that letter.

James Parrino, chair of the ad hoc committee, told residents that the committee had “no preformed plans or recommendations” and was not antiLGBTQIA. He urged residents to “give it a chance” and follow updates provided at BOE meetings and not on social media.

Its first meeting was planned for May 24. Besides Parrino, members include Stacey Price, Laura Cooper, and Pontillo, an ex-officio member.

Foxʼs petition is at change.org/p/support-the-display-ofa-pride-sign-in-front-of-whs-andwrms-and-promote-inclusivity

Ladies Auxiliary of Westwood Fire Department give honors

The Ladies Auxiliary of the Westwood Fire Department w ishes to honor deceased members with gratitude for their service:

Clara Bieth

M able Mann, 1931

Jennie Gildersleeve, 1935

Florence Kuhn, 1938

M argaret Tuers, 1940

Call For A FREE Estimate!

Margaret Blauvelt, 1950

H azel Housman, 1951

Anna Hagan, 1953

Mary Lillienfeld, 1955

Pearl Allison, 1957

Olga Ludwig, 1957

Mable Vervenne Burke, 1961

M aybelle Fisher, 1966

Marion Secore, 1966

Ethel Volz, 1967

M ary Jane Scharer, 1969

Florence Knowles, 1971

Eva Gilbert, 1973

C hristina McInerney Baker, 1974

Theresa Hooper, 1976

Viola Adams, 1977

Mildred Jefferies, 1977

Louise Bohlin, 1980

M ildred Humphrey, 1980

L oretta Kemmlein, 1980

M ary Cannisario, 1981

Lillian Bruns, 1981

Ella Reinhard, 1981

G race Augsbach, 1981

Jenny Lich

Sadie Mann, 1983

A nn Keller, 1985

Lil Sternberg, 1985

Alice Westphal, 1985

G race Fournier, 1986

Ann Isleib, 1986

Pe arl Meisten, 1989

G race Blauvelt, 1990

Ellen Cole, 1991

Marie Ke ller, 1993

R onnie Loennecker, 1993

Eleanor Macker, 1994

Ellie Baehr, 1999

E leanor Faatz, 1999

D ot Housman, 1999

H elen Butterfield, 2004

Annette Hagan, 2008

Rose White, 2014

G eralyn Voorhis, 2019

Kay Hodges, 2019

Dorothy Voorhis, 2020

G race Schumeyer-Stringer, 2020

Peggy Mawdsley, 2021

D oris Smith, 2022

DuBeck, 2022

WESTWOOD

Summer concert series starts June 15

Westwood Recreationʼs Summer Concert Series returns with seven concerts for 2023, kicking off with Reminisce, “NJʼs Premier Oldies Show & Dance Band,” on Thursday, June 15 at 8 p.m. in Veterans Memorial Park. The series is sponsored by First Westwood Realty LLC, Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical Center, Lakeland Bank, and Lightbridge Academy

Arrive early with your chairs and or blankets!

P/T Yard Attendant –Hillsdale DPW.

Department of Public Works is seeking a responsible individual to man our recycling center and assist residents with their recycling drop off.

Responsibilies include documenting visitiors, cleaning yard, emptying garbage cans, and other manual labor type tasks. Loader operating experience a plus. Pays $20 per hour. Mondays & Wednesdays 7AM-3PM. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.

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FULL/PART-TIME FINANCE SPECIALIST – BOROUGH OF HILLSDALE - The Borough of Hillsdale is accepting applications for an immediate, full or part-time Finance Specialist. Experience and proficiency are required in municipal accounting; Edmund’s software; as well as Word, Excel and general municipal-government practices. Must be highly organized, detail oriented and able to perform various, finance-related functions and multi-task. Responsibilities include but are not limited to performing day-to day financial transactions, including verifying, classifying and recording accounts payable data. Preparing invoices to be processed for payment, reconciling and analyzing our accounts payable system: purchasing, prepare periodic reports on a monthly basis. Accounts payable, including end of year requirements; purchase requisitions and purchase orders; bill lists; payment and check processing; revenue and expenditure/budget reports. Finance Specialist will perform additional, various duties and functions as assigned by the CMFO or Administrator. Salary DOQ. EOE. The Borough reserves the right to interview and hire while this advertisement is active. Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter that includes salary requirements to the Borough Clerk, Denise Kohan at dkohan@hillsdalenj.org.

F/T Temporary Seasonal Laborer –Hillsdale DPW. Department of Public Works is seeking individuals to assist with maintenance beginning on or about May 15. Experience not necessary. Pays $15 per hour Responsibilities include park & field maintenance, emptying garbage cans, litter removal, & performing other manual labor duties. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.

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Full-Time DPW Worker –Borough of Hillsdale. The Department of Public Works is seeking a responsible individual with building maintenance experience to perform various repairs on borough buildings & parks. Skills include carpentry, plumbing, masonry, electrical, & HVAC are preferred. Work will also include snow & leaf removal & other public works tasks. CDLClass B is required or the ability to secure within 1 year. Starting salary is $40,007 plus benefits. Applicants must fill out application which is available on town website: www.Hillsdalenj.org or pick up a copy at Borough Hall. 380 Hillsdale Ave, Hillsdale. Please send to DHayes@hillsdalenj.org or DKohan@hillsdalenj.org or drop off at borough hall.

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

various recreational programs and classes, and to help the community through developing and promoting the same.

Candidate must have a valid Rutgers Youth Sports Research Council Safety Course Clinician

Certification or obtain within six months of employment. All interested applications should possess a valid New Jersey Driver's license, including a safe driving record and must pass a background check. Salary shall be commensurate with experience.

Qualified candidates should submit their resume and salary requirements to Denise Kohan, Borough Clerk at dkohan@hillsdalenj.org by June 13, 2023.

Hillsdale is an Equal Opportunity Employer and reserves the right to interview applicants as received.

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

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

Help WantedLandscaping: crew leader- clean DL, experience driving with trailers & trucks & running equipment & crews , 2 yrs. min. Good pay & hours. Growing company. 201-664-3130.

Two pool ladders, inside and outside. $500 for pair. “That’s a wonderful price, let me tell you.” Call Mary at 201-358-1358.

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