Rising scholar
Woman’s Club of Westwood awards its 2025 scholarship to Sarah Ciocco. PAGE 2
TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON
TOWNSHIP THEATRE SAYSIT’S FORCEDTO
CLOSE
Owners say theyʼre heartbroken; last screening July 31; end of tradition dating to 1966
BY MICHAELOLOHAN AND JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
Township Theatre, one of Bergen Countyʼs last remaining independent cinemas, will close its doors for good on Thursday, July 31, as Washington Town Center moves forward in a new direction.
Owners Dave and Laura Rose, who reopened the theater in March 2021 following the Covid-19 shutdown, said they made every effort to negotiate a continued lease but were unable to reach an agreement.
See CLOSE on page 18
CONNECTING ON CHARACTER CONNECTING ON CHARACTER
Fieldstone Middle School rocks this yearʼs Respect, Reflect &Remember Day
Fieldstone Middle School students on June 6. Keynote speaker Ron Gold, one of 16 guest presenters, used to have a fast-paced job in the business world. But a life-changing bike accident left him paralyzed. Today, he shares his story to help others face challenges with strength and hope. Sean Powers photos.
BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
ITWASINTENSE and challenging — in the best possible ways.
On Friday, June 6, Fieldstone Middle School held its
biennial Respect, Reflect & Remember Day — also known as 3Rʼs Day — offering students in grades 5–8 a powerful day of character education. The program featured 16 inspirational speakers whose life stories, marked by adversity and
Continued on page 14
UNITS WELCOMED
MTM Development invited the public to join state Sen Holly Schepisi and local officials at the opening of Lake Tappan Commons, an affordable housing development in River Vale.
PAGE 5
TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON
TAKING STOCK OF 450 PASCACK ROAD
Now a town holding, this unique parcel affords challenges, opportunities
BYMICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
Cleanup and potential environmental remediation are underway at 450 Pascack Road, the 3.2acre property recently acquired by the Township of Washington. The site includes a deteriorating home and a collapsing wooden outbuilding, both slated for demolition.
Soil tests revealed the presence of lead, but a $250,000 escrow fund—established during the sale—will cover additional testing and any needed remediation.
The township finalized its $750,000 purchase agreement with seller Robert Morris in May 2024, following a due diligence period.
For years, neighbors had urged officials to acquire the site to prevent development. A proposed 48-unit senior housing complex was withdrawn in 2020 amid strong public opposition.
Mayor Peter Calamari announced the closing in April and outlined preliminary plans for
See 450 on page 24
For the farming families of the old Pascack Valley, June signaled one thing above all: the strawberry harvest. Kristin Beuscher, president of the Pascack Historical Society, has the story.
PAGE 4
taking
The GFWC/NJSFWC Womanʼs Club of Westwood has awarded its 2025 scholarship to Sarah Ciocco, a graduating senior of Westwood Regional High School. The $1,000 award recognizes Cioccoʼs exceptional aca-
demic record, community serv-
A Westwood resident, Ciocco made her mark in the performing arts as running crew chief and backstage manager for The Woodington Players, while also leading the set construction team.
She played for the Westwood girls basketball and soccer teams and competed on an AAU club basketball team.
As a yearbook staff member, she helped design pages, and as a
achieve
member of the Science League, she took part in quarterly statelevel biology competitions.
Cioccoʼs environmental advocacy included work with the Westwood Environmental Club, where she helped install the schoolʼs first greenhouse, coordinated donation drives for local animal shelters, and volunteered at a wildlife rescue center in Costa Rica.
All the while, she worked at Playa Bowls in Westwood and refereed preschool and kindergarten games for Dragons club soccer.
Ciocco was inducted into multiple honor societies, including the National Honor Society and those for Science, Math, English, Social Studies, Spanish, Music (Tri-M), and Theatre (International Thespian Society).
She will attend Pennsylvania State University this fall, where she plans to major in biomedical or biological engineering.
For more information about the Womanʼs Club of Westwood, call (201) 916-1580 or visit westwoodwomansclub.org.
Sarah Ciocco will attend Pennsylvania State University
Local theater gets its closeup in featured TV pilot
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK
WESTWOOD
If youʼve ever worked at a neighborhood movie theater—or just grown up loving one—youʼll recognize the world of “The Cineplex,” a heartfelt new comedy television pilot created by Fair Lawn native and filmmaker Alan Del Tufo.
The independently produced episode—shot right here at Westwood Cinema on Center Street— enjoyed its world premiere on Monday, May 12, at the 2025 Big Apple Film Festival in New York City.
“Welcome to ʻThe Cineplex,ʼ a once-glorious, but now crumbling small-town movie theater with a quirky, tight-knit staff who run the place more like a dysfunctional family than a business,” according to the production press kit. “From the mischievous ushers to the eccentric maintenance worker, to the security guard who takes his job way too seriously,” the theater has always been more about passion for movies than
Bergen County filmmaker Alan Del Tufo in a selfie at WestwoodCinema during production of his pilot for “The Cineplex.” He said of the staff, “They were extremely accommodating and some of the nicest people you could meet. I even got their house manager to be in a few of the shots.” Courtesy photo.
profit.
That changes when Colossal Enterprises, a massive corporate entertainment chain, buys the theater. “With their sterile branding and absurdly specific protocols,” the newcomers aim to turn The Cineplex into a cookie-cutter multiplex—unaware of the staffʼs unshakable bond or their flair for
hijinks. Week after week, the crew clashes with buttoned-up management in comedic attempts to hold on to their homegrown charm, whether keeping their indie film series alive or hosting a disastrous employee karaoke night.
The showʼs logline:“Youʼll laugh… youʼll cry… youʼll stick to the floor.”
Del Tufo, who worked at theaters in Bergen County during college, and is now based in Waldwick, said the pilot was a labor of love, rooted in nostalgia and a reverence for the community spaces that shape our formative years.
“Seeing all of these characters come to life was like stepping back in time,” he said. “We filmed at Westwood Cinema, which was amazing. They were incredibly generous and supportive, and it gave the whole production an authentic hometown feel.”
Westwood Cinema, formerly Pascack Theater, says on its web-
site that since its grand opening in 1928 the venue has featured the latest movie releases in a fun unique family friendly atmosphere. “When the current owner, Sprios Papas, refurbished this landmark theatre … he maintained and restored art deco architectural details of this movie house while installing the latest high-quality sound system and digital 3-D movie screens.”
The site says Westwood Cinemas, in partnership with the Westwood Chamber of Com-
“We
Bckintime... Bckintime...
‘We must never forget’
American Legion Post 162 installs new officers,honors Flag Day in Hillsdale
American Legion Post 162, which serves Hillsdale, Woodcliff Lake, and Old Tappan, installed its slate of officers for 2025–2026 in a Flag Day ceremony held June 14 at its Hillsdale headquarters.
The event drew some 20 members of the Legion and Sons of the American Legion, along with family and honored guests, for a formal induction followed by a backyard barbecue.
Among those in attendance was Kim Gardner, daughter of the late Past Commander Phil Langner, who was remembered during the program. The newly installed officers are:
See LEGION page 12
Stories from the
Strawberry patch Strawberr y patch
FOR THEFARMINGFAMILIES of the old Pascack Valley, June signaled one thing above all: the strawberry harvest.
During the winter months, when people were indoors and there was less farm work to be done, families had been busy handcrafting the small, hand-woven hickory baskets—called punnets—that would be essential come summer. By June, it was time to put them to good use.
Strawberries grew in the Pascack Valley in vast quantities and were coveted in the produce markets of cities like New York, Paterson, and Newark. It was the first fruit of the season, and this meant a quick return and ready money for the farmer. It gave him and his family employment, the boys and the girls earning money as berry pickers, and even the wife and older generation finding work in the berry fields.
The noted New Jersey historian John T. Cunningham wrote in 1963, “Wild strawberries brightened the hills of New Jersey when the first colonists arrived. Revolutionary War soldiers breaking out of winter camps at Morristown feasted hungrily on the toothsome fruit, and children walking
SPECIALTO PASCACK PRESS
By Kristin Beuscher, president of the Pascack Historical Society, Park Ridge. Call (201) 573-0307 or visit PascackHistoricalSociety.org
the fields knew the joys of the June berry. Nevertheless, it took market-minded Bergen County farmers of the early 19th century to make the free-growing berry a delicacy to tempt the leanest of pocketbooks.”
It was those wild berries that Bergen farmers first brought to the city market.
Cunningham wrote, “They sold their fruit from homemade splint baskets hung on poles across their shoulders. As they walked the streets of downtown New York, the strawberry vendors sang, Berries! Berries! Bergen berries!”
Housewives eagerly bought up the berries as fast as Jersey could produce them.
“Bergen farmers, long attuned to the desires of the New York market, took it from there. They selected the best of the wild
plants, cross-bred and fertilized them, and by 1840 had developed bigger and redder varieties, including the Hauboy and the noted Scotch Runner Thereafter, for more than 50 years, the upper parts of Bergen and Passaic counties went strawberry wild every June,” explained Cunningham.
See BERRIES on page 8
These charming strawberry baskets were owned by Elizabeth Campbell (1850-1931) during her childhood in Park Ridge. Years ago, Bergen County was famous for its strawberry harvests that were shipped by train, wagon, and boat for sale in New York and other cities. Note that an enthusiastic young Elizabeth had painted her first name prominently on the basket holder (called a hamper), only to realize she did not leave adequate space for her last name. It's a miscalculation we all made as children.
Wild strawberries plumped among native Bergen County fauna familiar to the Lenape and early Dutch settlers. (Wikimedia Commons)
Sons of the American Legion Vice Commander Dennis Cesa (left) with granddaughter Alexandria Cesa Barone and Legion Commander Tom Robinson. Three of Alex’s great-grandfathers served in the Armed Forces during World War II. Robinson presented Alexandria with a flag in their honor on Flag Day. Anthony DeRosa photo.
MTM Development invited the public and press to join state and local leaders for the official grand opening and ribbon cutting of Lake Tappan Commons, a newly completed affordable housing development that its team trumpets will bring 25 much-needed homes to the River Vale community.
A promotional statement MTM Development sent to Pascack Press on June 18 says the celebration, set for June 19 at noon at 436 River Vale Road, would feature remarks from Jacquelyn Suarez, commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, along with comments from State Sen. Holly Schepisi, Mayor Mark Bromberg, and members of the River Vale Township Council.
“Lake Tappan Commons is more than housing—itʼs a symbol of what can be achieved when thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and a commitment to community come together,” said Maria E. Yglesias, co-managing member at MTM Development.
“Weʼre proud to help meet New Jerseyʼs affordable housing needs with homes that are beautifully designed, well-located, and built to last.”
Lake Tappan Commons is the first phase in the redevelopment of the former Mesker site, fulfilling the Townshipʼs 2017 settlement agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center. The development delivers 25 one-, two-, and threebedroom apartment homes for individuals and families earning up to 80% of Bergen Countyʼs Area Median Income (AMI), with a portion of units set aside for households earning below 30% and 50% AMI.
The apartments serve a broad range of residents—including families, seniors, and people with special needs—and feature energyefficient appliances and HVAC sys-
tems, handicap-adaptable layouts, elevator access, and shared laundry facilities on each floor. The siteʼs central location ensures easy access to local services, schools, and recreational amenities.
The project was financed “through a public-private partnership, including:
• A low-interest loan from the NJ DCA Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Land and subsidies from the Township of River Vale
• A construction loan from Provident Bank
• Developer equity from MTM Development
The project broke ground in January 2024, and initial occupancy is anticipated by Aug. 1. Leasing is underway.
Project partners include:
• M&M Development –Owner/Developer
• M&M Development – General Contractor
• Inglese Architecture and
Engineering
Architect • Stonefield Engineering –Civil Engineering
Looking ahead, construction of a second phase — 35 for-sale condominiums, including 12 affordable units — is expected to begin later this summer, Yglesias told Pascack Press
About MTM Development
MTM Development is a partnership between M&M Develop-
ment and ALM Consulting Group, focused on creating attractive, energy-efficient, and communitycentered affordable and mixedincome housing across New Jersey. Each project is designed to complement and enhance the surrounding neighborhood. The partnership is led by Co-Managing Members Maria E. Yglesias of M&M Development and Anthony L. Marchetta of ALM Consulting Group.
VALE
Lake Tappan Commons, a new
NNJC calls out news of note on race for governor
Eyes are on the stateʼs gubernatorial candidates following a primary election that saw voters put Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill in the contest for the Statehouse.
Carol Rauscher, president and CEO of the North New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, is keeping her members abreast of the conversation. Highlights from her June 18 outreach:
The U.S. economy is in a good place; the Federal Reserve is not.
With the U.S. economic outlook uncertain, Fed policymakers are expected to keep their key interest rate unchanged on Wednesday at about 4.4%. Officials will also release a set of quarterly economic projections that are expected to show inflation will accelerate later this year, while unemployment my also tick up a bit. (Associated Press)
Ciattarelli pledges to cut CBT in half, offers specific business plans for state.
Republican candidate for
Governor Jack Ciattarelli on Tuesday pledged to cut the stateʼs corporate business tax by more than 50% in the next six years while also suggesting numerous tax changes that will help small business. Ciattarelli was speaking at The Palace in Somerset at a post-primary event sponsored by the NJBIA. (BINJE)
Sherrill: Iʼm committed to giving business a seat at the table in Trenton.
Democratic candidate for governor Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday
night told business leaders that she is committed to not only streamlining policies involving business but also ensuring that business leaders will have a seat at the table in Trenton whenever key business issues are being discussed. (BINJE)
Senate Republicans push for changes to massive tax bill.
A hurdle to passage is the SALT deduction limit, which the president and Republicans in Congress set at $10,000 in 2017, when they passed a tax law. The new Republican Senate language would maintain that limit at $10,000 rather than raise it to $40,000, as the House bill does. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-7), one of a handful of Republicans from California, New York or New Jersey who pushed for a higher SALT deduction, said he voted for the House bill in large part due to that new SALT language. (NJ Spotlight News)
WESTWOOD
AECOM tops NJ construction management firms list.
AECOM leads New Jerseyʼs construction management sector with 560 employees and 45 construction project managers. The company, established in 1990 but with acquired firms throughout New Jersey dating back to 1965, operates from Piscataway and manages commercial, heavy civil infrastructure, industrial, institutional and residential projects. Comcast Business and Provident Bank are sponsors of NJBIZʼs 2025 Book of Lists. (NJBIZ)
The North New Jersey Chamber of Commerce (NJCC) is a nonprofit organization led by business leaders in East Bergen and the NJ Hudson Waterfront who care about the health and vigor of our communities. The NNJC is the eyes, the ears and the voice of our region's commercial, business, professional and industrial community. — Staff
SENIOR FELLOWSHIP TOCASINO
The Westwood Seniors invite members to a casino trip to Wind Creek Casino in Pennsylvania, Monday, June 23. The cost is $45 per person and includes a $25 slot rebate.
The bus departs at 9:15 a.m.
from Westvale Park on Harrington Avenue, where parking is available.
For more information or to reserve a spot, call Mary at 201664-4538. Then… “See you in September.”
Cineplex:
FROM PAGE 3
merce, hosts six to eight movie previews annually.
In an interview with New Jersey Stage, Del Tufo said, “If I had to describe ʻThe Cineplex,ʼI would say itʼs ʻOffice Spaceʼ meets ʻAmerican Pie.ʼ” He added that creating a pilot independently came with serious challenges: “The most difficult part was the time constraints. We were working on a very tight budget and filming at a real, working movie theater. The theater was great, though… we filmed at Westwood Cinema. They were extremely accommodating and some of the nicest people you could meet. I even got their house manager to be in a few of the shots.”
“At this point we have only shot the pilot episode,” he explained. “In a perfect world the show would live on a streaming service… like Netflix or HBO/MAX.”
Del Tufo told Pascack Press, “We had an amazing opening night. It was so great to see the whole gang back together again. Almost everyone was in attendance/ My favorite part was hearing the jokes land. Every audience is different, so Iʼm always curious to see which jokes land the hardest.”
Del Tufo said that he didnʼt work through the Borough of Westwood, which in 2024
announced its designation as a Film Ready Community. Westwood now stands with a cohort of 14 other municipalities and four counties (including Bergen County) recognized by the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (NJMPTVC), under the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA).
The designation ensures Westwoodʼs entries in the stateʼs Reel Scout database (nj.gov/njfilm/production-location.shtml) are marked with the Film Ready Community seal of approval, serving as an endorsement from the state to interested location scouts that Westwood welcomes motion picture production.
The municipality has already served as the backdrop for several productions of various sizes
including “Ezra,” starring Robert De Niro and New Jerseyans Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, and Bobby Cannavale at Conradʼs Confectionery (107 Westwood Ave.) and the former Jackʼs Cafe (325 Broadway).
In 2022, Westwood was backdrop for three films, “Cannibal Mukbang,” “Our Son,” and “Three Birthdays” at various locations around town including Conradʼs, Five Corners Convenience (103 Westwood Ave.), Westwood Cinema (182 Center Ave.), Westwood parks, and private residences.
Scenes from an episode of “Real Housewives of New Jersey” were filmed at Phoenician (284 Center Ave.) in August 2023 and the short film “Stateside” filmed at Westwood Pancake House (301 Old Hook Road) in October 2023.
In contrast, Del Tufo dealt
with the theater itself and their marketing agency. “All wonderful people by the way. I have nothing but amazing things to say about them,” he added. According to materials provided by the production team, “The Cineplex” stars Kevin Michael Brennan and Wasim Azeez as two unlikely usher supervisors, with Pauline Brown as their overwhelmed new manag-
er. Emma DeWitt plays a sharptongued concession stand pro, and Kelsey McClarnon brings comic intensity as the theaterʼs rule-happy security guard. Del Tufoʼs team hopes the buzz from “The Cineplex”ʼs Big Apple premiere will lead to streaming interest. The pilot has already been shortlisted for other festivals, with a possible West
Berries:
In the 1930s, Pascack Historical Society founder John C. Storms recorded in detail the strawberry seasons of his boyhood. He was born in Park Ridge in 1869, a time when the area was entirely rural.
“Schools were suspended around June 1 to let the farm boys and girls pick berries, and the vacation lasted for six weeks,” Storms wrote. “The entire family participated in the picking—men, women, little children. Work began early and continued until
late, with only the briefest possible time for a hasty noon lunch.”
Each person carried a supply
of empty baskets held on a string that passed through the handles.
Filled baskets were placed in the
A fuller look at Elizabeth Campbell's strawberry baskets, part of the collection of the Pascack Historical Society. The region's farming families wove these splint baskets by hand in winter as they looked to
grass behind the pickers as they went along, to be gathered up at the end. The family would finally head inside for dinner when it was too dark to see the berries. In June, that was well into the evening.
“Each little basket was covered with a large chestnut or hickory leaf drawn under the handle and tied with a piece of bark passing under the bottom of the container. This kept the berries fresh and prevented their spilling,” Storms wrote.
Every week a special “strawberry boat” took the loads of berries from Bergen County down the Hudson River, landing them on the dock at the foot of Christopher Street in Manhattan. Later, when the Northern Railroad through Closter opened in 1859,
the farmers would take their berries by wagon to be loaded o nto the special “strawberry train” that ran nightly.
While full baskets were handled with care, the return trip was a different story. Empty containers—meant to be reused— were jostled and often damaged, necessitating a new round of winter basket-making the following year.
DIDYOUKNOW The Lenape, the indigenous people who were the first to set foot in the Pascack Valley, had a word for the wild strawberries they found here: w'tehim. The Jersey Dutch, the first permanent settlers in the 18th century, adopted the Lenape word into their language as tahaaim
Artist Lilly Martin Spencer was living in Newark when she painted Strawberries in 1859. These might have been Bergen berries, as Newark was a destination for our produce. (From the collection of The Huntington)
June’s strawberry harvest.
• HANGING BASKETS
• ANNUALS & PERENNIALS
• SHRUBS & TREES
• PLANTERS & POTTERY
• MULCH • SOIL
• ANIMAL REPELLENTS
• FERTILIZERS & MORE!
GREATEST GENERATIONGETS SHOPPINGCENTERDOWNTOWN
BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS
TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON
ATTHEDAWN of the 1960s, things were changing fast in the Township of Washington.
A post-war Baby Boom and construction surge had brought unprecedented population growth to the 3-square-mile town, as the Greatest Generation was looking to settle in the suburbs and raise families. Building houses was a big business, as the township was subdivided into lots and hundreds of ranches and Cape Cods went up on newly mapped streets. In 1955 one could buy a new three-bedroom ranch on a 75-by-100-foot lot in the township for about $15,000. The Township of Washington was the fastest growing community in all of New Jersey during that era.
Editorʼs note:As a sidebar to Michael Olohan and John Snyderʼs front page report in this issue, “Township Theatre says itʼs closing,” we turned to Pascack Historical Society President Kristin Beuscher for an even deeper dive on the theater and what we now know as Washington Town Center…
As incredible as it sounds to us today, as late as the 1940s the Township of Washington's population was under 500 people. A commercial element was almost non-existent. Residents had to go to larger neighboring towns, like Westwood and Ridgewood, for their shopping needs.
The population growth that took place in the decades after World War II can only be described as an explosion. By 1960 there were 6,600 people liv-
ing in the Township of Washington. It is difficult to imagine what it must have been like for the oldtimers who had spent their lives in the township. Their little rural town of 500 people saw more than 6,000 newcomers move in over a 20-year period. Great swaths of forest and field had been cleared and turned into streets lined with houses.
The township had become a real suburb, and with that, the people were clamoring for the convenience of a shopping center in town. The issue became a talking point during election season. For local officials, it was a balancing act: the need to “shop local” was tempered by the idea that it was the quaint nature of the township that had drawn so many people there in the first place.
The solution took the form of a municipal master plan, the town's first, that rezoned for a single shopping area on Pascack Road, centered on an 11-acre site. In this way, local officials hoped to provide for the residents' shopping needs while also keeping the commercial element tucked neatly onto a single location.
The owners of that 11-acre tract, home builders James Leone and John Durante, had bought it with different plans in mind. However, with some urging, and some concessions on the township's part as well, they agreed to change course and build a shopping center.
The original anchor store was an Acme supermarket located where Fresh Grocer is today As demand for other types of busi-
Westwood club president takes national stage
Delegates from across the country gathered recently for the General Federation of Womenʼs Clubs (GFWC) annual convention, a tradition dating back to 1890 when journalist Jane Cunningham Croly helped unite professional womenʼs clubs under one national umbrella.
Greatest:
FROM PAGE 10
nesses increased, the builders added onto the strip mall in stages. A drugstore moved in, as did a dry cleaner and baker. By the early 1960s, the second section of the center was being built with space for a luncheonette, bank, hardware store, jewelry store and another supermarket. The Washington Cinema opened in the shopping center in 1966.
Flashback: Washington Cinemaʼs Grand Opening
When the Washington Cinema opened on Sept. 2, 1966, it was hailed as a state-of-the-art theater
Representing the GFWC/NJSFWC Womanʼs Club of Westwood, local club president Deen Meloro attended the conference as part of her national role as GFWC Bylaws Chairman. In this capacity, she pres ented proposed amendments d eveloped by the national
seat auditorium featuring slate floors, fine tapestries, and stereophonic sound. With 40 inches of legroom and one of the largest
Bylaws Committee for member consideration.
The convention featured a robust lineup of workshops focused on Communications and Public Relations, Community Service Programs, Fundraising, Leadership, Membership, and Domestic and Sexual Violence
screens in the area, it promised a premiere moviegoing experience just a short walk from acres of parking.
Awareness and Prevention. Next yearʼs GFWC convention is scheduled to take place in Scottsdale, Arizona.
To learn more about the Womanʼs Club of Westwood, call (201) 916-1580 or visit westwoodwomansclub.org.
WEEKEND MASS SCHEDULE
Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:30 PM
Sunday Masses: 7:30 AM (no music) 9:30 AM 11:00 AM 12:30 PM - Spanish Evening: 6:15 PM
DAILY MASS
Monday thru Friday 6:30 am and 8:30 am
Saturday Morning: 8:30 AM
Legion:
FROM PAGE 4
• Commander: Tom Robinson
• First Vice Commander and Chaplain: Ray Matz
•Second Vice Commander: Joe Sgroi
• Third Vice Commander: Ken Smith
•Treasurer and Immediate Past Commander: Douglas Frank
•Adjutant: Frank “Chief” Mikulski
• Sergeant-at-Arms: Richard Smith (not pictured)
In passing the gavel, Frank highlighted recent accomplishments of the post, including the installation of a new flagpole and veterans memorial in Hillsdale, as well as ongoing education efforts and outreach to local veterans.
a
Flag Day commemoration, Legionnaire and U.S. Marine Sean Smith
reads a tribute to the American flag alongside Commander Tom
“We are pulling way above our weight and should be proud of this,” he said.
Commander Robinson praised the postʼs recent poppy sales program and pledged to carry forward its mission. “We will continue to embrace programs that benefit our veterans and our community—and that
remind us of the sacrifices made by our military men and women. We must never forget,” he said.
The ceremony also included a tribute to the American flag, with U.S. Marine and Legionnaire Sean Smith reading a Flag Day commemoration alongside Commander Robinson.
In a moment highlighting intergenerational service, Robinson presented a folded flag to Alexandria Cesa Barone, whose great-grandfathers served in World War II. She was joined by her grandfather, Sons of the American Legion Vice Commander Dennis Cesa.
Despite intermittent rain, preparations carried on undeterred. Korean War veteran George DeRosa—also this yearʼs Memorial Day Parade grand marshal—was seen stepping out into the weather to inspect the grounds before the ceremony.
All photos by Anthony DeRosa, unless otherwise noted.
Left to right: Jim Gerbig, Adjutant Frank “Chief” Mikulski, Past Commander and Treasurer Douglas Frank, Commander Tom Robinson, Second Vice Commander Joe Sgroi, Vice Commander Ken Smith, and First Vice Commander and Chaplain Ray Matz.
In
special
(left)
Robinson.
Cineplex:
FROM PAGE 7
Coast screening on the horizon. Del Tufo began his career in the late 1990s as an actor, most notably appearing in the Robert De Niro–produced NBC miniseries “Witness to the Mob” as the childhood best friend of Sammy “The Bull” Gravano. He made his directorial debut in 2012 with “Eternal Damn Nation,” a satirical horror film made for $7,500 that went on to secure global distribution across theatrical, VOD, and DVD platforms. In 2021, he debuted his webseries “Everyday Life, if directed by…”, a comedy backed by the Tongal ad agency, exploring what life might look like through the lens of iconic film directors. His work in advertising includes social campaigns for major brandss.
He said the collaborative spirit of the production reflects the kind of storytelling he loves most: grounded, scrappy, and characterdriven.
“Itʼs really about people trying to hang on to something meaningful in the face of corporate sameness,” said Del Tufo. “And itʼs a love letter to local theaters everywhere.”
For more information visit thecineplextvshow.com.
Post 153’s Texas Hold ‘em June 27
American Legion Post 153, Park Ridge, invites you to its Texas Hold ʻem Poker N ight fundraiser on Friday, June 27 at their post, 118 Ridge Ave. Food, beer, wine and soft drinks will be served starting at 6 p.m. The poker begins at 7. To register or for more details, scan the QR code. For more information write njpost153@hotmail.com or call 201-391-9754. S
Send
Get more done, the right way — via our Service Directory! Pascack Press service ads start on Page 27
S tudents heard firsthand accounts from war correspondents, 9/11 survivors, school s hooting survivors, philanthropists, and others who have faced extraordinary hardship with courage, empathy, and resolve. The presentations explored themes of unity, compassion, perseverance, gratitude, and personal growth.
“This day brings us together as a community bound by the shared value of empowering our students to become exemplary citizens and positive role models,” said Principal Mike Lauricella in his welcome remarks.
Two keynote speakers bookended the dayʼs programming with memorable messages:
• Jim Stroker, the morning keynote, encouraged students to reconnect with their personal values and inner mission. His talk emphasized how our responses to lifeʼs challenges shape the outcomes we create.
• Darryl Bellamy, the afternoon keynote, shared his “Fear-
less Inside” movement, which promotes belonging, confidence, and connection. “Fear is scary,” he said, “but it shouldnʼt be feared — it should be embraced.”
We attended three of the dayʼs presentations, each offering a different lens on hardship and healing:
• Haider Newmani – Iraqi Journalist Newmani offered a rare, firsthand perspective on life under Saddam Hussein, through the Iran-Iraq War, the Gulf War, and the U.S. invasion. As a journalist, he risked everything to report the truth, embedding with both U.S. and insurgent forces, enduring arrests and injuries. The Fulbright scholarʼs talk was a p owerful reminder of journalismʼs role in humanizing conflict and bridging divides.
• Carli Bushoven – Mental H ealth Advocate (Sister of Madison Holleran). In “Destruct ive Perfectionism” Bushoven spoke movingly about the death of her younger sister, Madison, of A llendale — a University of Pennsylvania student-athlete who died by suicide in 2014. Bushoven described the pain of
Haider Newmani – Iraqi
Journalist Newmani offered a rare, firsthand perspective on life under Saddam Hussein, through the IranIraq War, the Gulf War, and the U.S. invasion. John Snyder photo. Jacy Good was in a devastating car crash caused by a distracted driver. Her parents were killed, and she was left with a traumatic brain injury. Her love stayed by her side throughout. John Snyder photo.
that loss and the shift it caused in h er understanding of mental health. Her appeal: Donʼt assume you know what someone else is going through. Speak up. Ask for help. Support one another
• Jacy Good and Steve Johnson – “It Can Wait” Jacy and Steve met in college and were planning their future together when tragedy struck. Jacy was in a devastating car crash caused by a distracted driver. Her parents were killed, and she was left with a traumatic brain injury. Steve stayed by her side through her recovery. Together, they advocate against distracted driving. Their campaign, It Can Wait, has gone viral and saved lives. Their message is simple: your choices matter. (See more at hangupanddrive.com)
The full list of speakers: Darryl Bellamy Jr. FearLESS Inside
CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
eats Dining & Cooking Guide
RAISING KIDS TO ROCK STRONG MONEY SMARTS
Parents
teach their children about finances—and thatʼs true for wealthy families and less affluent families alike. Kids are smart enough to pick up on signals that their family may have more than others. But if the conversation stops at the benefits that money can bring, youʼre missing out on important life lessons.
Theyʼre not really being taught how to be financially responsible once they leave the house and become independent. What steps can parents take to teach both sensitivity and responsibility about money?
Step 1: Find teachable moments. It can be difficult to find time to sit down and talk specifically about wealth, but natural opportunities to teach pop up every day.
For example, you can incorporate financial responsibility into an impromptu math lesson about money: If you find something that originally
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cost $100 and itʼs on sale for 30% off, you can ask kids how much the new price is—and, now that they are only spending $70, what they might do with the $30 thatʼs left.
Step 2: Take a lifelong view toward financial literacy. Every child, and especially those who will one day inherit substantial wealth, should have a tool kit of basic financial literacy skills by 18, including concepts such as how to spend, how to save, how to give, and the value of a dollar.
By late childhood or adolescence, parents can add concepts such as what it means to invest, what companies one might invest in, and how you assess risk with an investment.
You can encourage children in high school to think about college expenses logically by examining the costs and coming up with a credible college budget. Ask them to consider basic questions: What will you need in order to make this happen? What will the family need to supply, and what is the student expected to supply, in terms of tuition, books, room and board, transportation, and normal spending money?
Step 3: Show your kids how itʼs done. Your childʼs healthy relationship with money begins with an open and honest relationship within a family that models good money behavior. These discussions can be challenging, but the fruit is well worth the labor.
Stress education and expect them to do well in school. The parents who do really well in teaching financial literacy typically lead by example—they tend to be savers, and theyʼre more careful with spending money. Remember to be that example..
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This can start very early with an exercise as simple as a three piggy banks analogy. You encourage the child to divide any money heor she receives into three piggy banks: spending, saving, and community/charity. This shows the concept of different types or purposes of money as opposed to all being for spending. Repeating this xercise can help ingrain the habit of
And parents and grandparents can continue to encourage responsible, long-term financial responsibility by giving young adults an incentive to begin saving for retirement early. If youʼre able, and they have earned income, offer to match what they save into a Roth IRA. Itʼs also wise to coax contributions to a 401(k) at work.
Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice. Be sure to consult with your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax consequences. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state.
This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director–Investments in Park Ridge at (201) 505-0472. Investments in securities and insurance products are not FDICinsured/not bank-guaranteed and may lose value.
Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
PARAMUS
Special recital at Savior series June 28
Join in as the Claudette Peterson Vocal Studio performs their recital “Our Voices Raised in Song” as part of the Music at Savior series at Church of the Savior, Saturday, June 28 at 1 p.m.
The concert features students from ages–18, performing an enjoyable variety of Broadway, classical and light pop selections with a remarkable combination of skill and joy.
3R’s Day:
FROM PAGE 14
Carli Bushoven
Destructive Perfectionism
Manual Chea 9/11 Survivor
Jaclyn Corin
March For Our Lives
Daryl Davis
Klan-Destine Relations
Danielle DeZao
Overcoming Dating Violence
Zak Ebrahim
The Terroristʼs Son
Max Glanz
My Last Nerve
Ron Gold Lean on We
Jacy Good and Steve Johnson
Texting & Driving
Jenn Hensel
Sandy Hook
Arno Michaelis
My Life After Hate
Kaila Mullady
The Power of a Voice
Haider Newmani
Iraqi Journalist
Courtney Roselle
Iron Grace
Sandy Rubenstein
Child of Holocaust Survivor
Jim Stroker
Become the Best Version of You
Pianist David Maiullo is featured as accompanist for the program. Refreshments will be served. No tickets are required, but a freewill offering will be much appreciated for the churchʼs music program.
The programʼs three pillars — Respect, Reflect, and Remember — guided the day:
• RESPECT – Listening to othersʼlived experiences to build empathy and understanding.
• REFLECT – Considering how those stories apply to studentsʼ own lives and how they might impact others.
•REMEMBER – Carrying those lessons forward, drawing on them during both struggles and triumphs.
Since its debut in 2007, 3Rs Day has consistently offered students a deeper understanding of the world and of themselves. Held every two years, it reinforces resilience, tolerance, and civic responsibility through the lens of lived experience.
Superintendent Darren A. Petersen told Pascack Press, “3Rs Day was a resounding success that showcased our school community at its best. Having over 50 volunteers created an atmosphere that clearly impressed our students — you could see it in their faces as they looked around the full cafetorium with faculty, parents, board members, and Mayor Ghassali all present.”
He said, “What surprised me most was the depth of the student questions. I probably shouldnʼt be amazed anymore, but their thoughtful engagement with our speakers continues to exceed expectations. It made me proud of their curiosity.” He said the district will review this yearʼs lineup
All are welcome. Church of the Savior is at 643 Forest Ave. For more information, call 201391-3519.
to determine which speakers to invite back in 2027, and where fresh voices may be added.
The program included a memorial note on wo past 3R's Day speakers whose legacies live on through their powerful messages: Mary Kay Stratis – Montvale resident and longtime supporter of 3Rʼs Day; and Christophe Lafontant, advocate and past participant
This yearʼs event was coordinated by Montvale parents Erin Powers and Thea Ignatiou, with help from many volunteers who made the day possible, starting with administrators, faculty, and staff. They singled out Dr. Petersen for his leadership and for continuing the tradition, and Mr. Lauricella for his guidance and tireless work.
They acknowledged Mrs. Risoli, Mrs. Carcich, Mrs. Clark, Mrs. Ferreira, Mrs. Sarin, and Mrs. Walker for helping secure speakers and coordinate logistics. Suzanne Dolan and Peter Valois were recognized for their support, including signage and artwork. They thanked longtime contributors Susan Buonocore, Maureen Sutton, and Judith Thomas, and thanked Samantha DʼAuria, the hospitality chair, and Michael DʼAuria, Tech & AV chair.
And the chairs thanked the PTO and MEF boards for their support, and the Montvale BOE for providing breakfast for the dayʼs speakers, staff, and volunteers.
“Despite our best attempts, [the owners] remain committed to their redevelopment plans, and the closure of the theater is inevitable,” they said in a message to patrons.
The Roses told Pascack Press last week that about six weeks ago they were contacted by center management and asked to vacate the space at 249 Pascack Road to make way for something new at the address. They said they attempted to
renegotiate their lease—including a willingness to increase their rent— but talks with the mallʼs new management company, GRE Vertical Advisors LLC, were unsuccessful.
The couple said in a statement, “We are deeply grateful for your support over the years. The love and enthusiasm shown by our patrons have meant everything to us. While we are heartbroken to close this chapter, we will always cherish the memories we created together.”
Pascack Press reached out to CRE Vertical Advisors LLC—the company coordinating mall operations for the DiChiara family trust— for comment both on the theatreʼs standing and larger plans for the shopping center, established in 1959 and the commercial hub of downtown.
The blow would be compound-
Township Theatre opened its doors to private rentals for everything from fundraisers and school events to milestone celebrations like Sweet 16s and high school reunions. “The only limit is your imagination,” the owners said. Courtesy.
ed in the end of a remarkable tradition:A theater has operated at the site since 1966, and was the site of many residentsʼfirst trip to the movies—their own or with their young ones.
The management on their leasing website describes Washington Town Center as “a cornerstone of our community. Anchored by a supermarket, pharmacy, and the United States Post Office, our property stands as the epicenter of the Township. We take pride in curating a diverse tenant mix and downtown experience, featuring a variety of restaurants, fitness facilities, and a range of essential services and products for the community Washington Town Center is not just a place; it's a meticulously designed destination that caters to your everyday needs. Join us in the heart of the action and savor the convenience that our shopping center has to offer.”
The 8,300-square-foot space is now being marketed as prime retail real estate, with high ceilings, ample parking, and a full build-out in place. Listed as suitable for entertainment, medical, or fitness use, the storefront is listed as available immediately, with lease terms negotiable and rent listed upon request.
The mall, built in 1959 and ren-
ovated in 1997, is described as being in excellent condition and in line with other retail tenants.
With the three-screen theaterʼs closure, the space is being pitched to prospective tenants looking for a turnkey retail setup with strong visibility and high-volume capacity.
Mayor Peter Calamari, who keeps an office in the mall, told us he was not privy to business decisions leading to the theaterʼs impending closure and preferred not to comment on that aspect of it.
He said of the theater, “Itʼs a shame theyʼre closing. Iʼve been almost a lifelong resident of the township, and I have fond memories of being there with my friends, and stuff. I feel bad that todayʼs kids, they get enjoyment in different ways, but not in the ways that I did, so I think itʼs a little sad.”
Investing in the town
When the prior cinema closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Roses saw an opportunity to revive it. They had operated Ramsey Cinema from 2013 to March 2020, when pandemic restrictions forced it to close. That venue was converted into a dental office.
In March 2021, the Roses
See CLOSE on page 23
Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
DR. KAPLAN: You can age without apology
Itʼs June—
N ational Age Without Apolog y Month—a time to celebrate not just the years weʼve lived, but the p erspective, r esilience, and insight that come with t hem. And
h ereʼs the truth: getting older does not mean getting left behind. In fact, your brain is still capable of remarkable growth, adaptability, and performance—well beyond what most people realize. Contrary to popular belief, memory loss is not an inevitable part of aging. Sure, we all occasional-
ly forget why we walked into a room, but frequent lapses arenʼt always about age—they may be tied to stress, dehydration, or lack of movement.
While thereʼs no cure for Alzheimerʼs yet—despite decades of research—the best available strategy remains prevention. Think of it like a longterm investment. Healthy lifestyle habits build cognitive reserve, making the brain more resilient over time.
A ccording to the Alzheimerʼs Association, more than 6.9 million Americans over 65 are living with Alzheimerʼs t oday—a number projected to double by 2050 if trends continue. But there is hope. Research into neuroplasticity—the brainʼs
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ability to form new neural connections—shows that we can continue to improve focus, memory, and mental agility at any age. What helps?
Start with movement. Light, regular activity improves circulation and oxygen flow—both essential for brain health. Even standing and stretching every 20 minutes can help. Swimming, walking, or using a rowing m achine are great low-impact options. Good posture also plays a surprising role in mood and energy.
Nutrition matters, too. Aim for whole foods: leafy greens, wild salmon, beets, berries, avocados. Minimize ultra-processed
snacks and stay hydrated—especially if caffeine or alcohol is part of your day. Consider adding a pinch of unrefined sea salt to water to improve mineral absorption.
Variety is also key. Your brain thrives on novelty. Try a new hobby, take a different walking route, or even brush your teeth with your non-dominant hand. These small challenges stimulate cognitive growth.
And donʼt overlook mental health. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can affect brain function. Deep breathing, laughter, sunlight, and time spent in nature all support emotional wellbeing and cognitive resilience.
If youʼre looking to take a deeper dive into your own brain health, we offer qEEG brain mapping at our offices in Emerson, NJ and Manhattan. This non-invasive tool identifies areas of overactivity or imbalance and helps us design personalized wellness
strategies. Normally $600, weʼre offering it for just $21 this month in honor of Age Without Apology—mention this article when booking. The offer is limited to the first 10 responders.
You can also explore more strategies in my book, “Boost Your Brainpower: A Guide to Improving Your Memory and Focus,” available on Amazon. Itʼs a practical, researchinformed guide to supporting m ental performance—naturally and effectively.
And for weekly insights, tune in to my radio show, Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan—Saturdays at 8 a.m. on AM 970 and 2 p.m. on WOR 710.
This month, celebrate your mind. Stay curious. Stay active. And know that your best brain days may still be ahead. To schedule your $21 brain map, call 201-261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com.
DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY
Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
Why patients trust the Vein Center of Oradell
There are vein specialists, and there are vascular surgeons. L uckily for his patients, James W. Geuder, M.D., is both. Dr. Geuder is a board-certified vascular surgeon specializing in varicose veins, venous disord ers, spider vein treatment, and circulation disorders. He has practiced vascular surgery in Bergen County for 25 years.
Dr. Geuder is an attending surgeon at Hackensack University Medical Center and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has been consistently selected as a “Top Doct or” by Castle Connolly, a “Best Doctor” by New York Magazine, and a Patients C hoice and Most Compassionate Doctor by PatientsChoice.com.
When you call the Vein Center of Oradell, a profession-
Most vein procedures can b e performed in the office and with local anesthesia, if necessary. Dr. Geuder alsotreats patients at Hackensack University Medical Center and outpatient surgery centers if anesthesia or more involved procedures are necessary.
Dr.Geuder is a board-certified vascular surgeon specializing in varicose veins,venous disorders,spider vein treatment,and circulation disorders
al will always answer your call and be happy to assist you. We work hard to provide a comfortable, friendly environment at the Vein Center of Oradell. We have an ICAVL-approved vascular lab that allows for immediate testing with an accurate diagnosis.
An important role as your doctor is to educate you about your condition and treatment options. It is important to understand what is wrong and what should be done.
“Many people tolerate varicose veins in spite of their discomfort and appearance,” said Dr. Geuder. “The thought of vein stripping, anesthesia and recovery may seem worse than the problem. Thanks to modern, non-invasive treatments –such as laser or VNUS closure – that is no longer the case. Patients have their treatments in the office under local anesthesia and return to normal activity afterward. It is very gratifying to see patientsʼ
symptoms and veins disappear after a minor office procedure.”
For more information on Dr. Geuder and the Vein Center of O radell, visit veincentero-
foradell.com or call — we answer the phone! No recordi ng.
Connect today Vein Center Of Oradell, 680
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Close:
FROM PAGE 18
reopened the Washington Township location, bringing with them a vision that extended well beyond first-run films. Their plans included family programming, live comedy, musical acts, and private events— offering a community-centered space at a time when lockdowns had left many feeling isolated.
Laura said at the time, “Dave and I are thrilled to announce that we have a new home—in my hometown! We have taken over operations of the shuttered Washington Township Cinemas—now the new Township Theatre! We are working hard to bring the best movie-going experience that we have been known for, to you, our dear clients. Our staff is raring to get back too!”
In early interviews, the Roses spoke of transforming the space with added seating, concessions, and a live-performance stage. “Very quickly we decided to take a
chance… this industry is raring to come back and weʼre willing to take this chance,” Laura said.
The local Dairy Queen franchise owner said at his Planning Board hearing in 2019 he was excited to open near the theater, anticipating a boost in foot traffic.
And while the Roses were optimistic about the reopening—with vaccination campaigns underway and limited-capacity screenings permitted—they acknowledged the risks.
Laura, who grew up on Jackson Avenue and graduated from Westwood Regional High School in 1987, said she saw her first movie— ”Airport ʼ77”—at the theater nearly 50 years ago. She said she and David were drawn to the “community feel” of the space. At the time, she noted the building was constructed in 1966.
Laura said although the theaterʼs final show is planned for July 31, theyʼll have an additional week to remove equipment from the building. She noted that the mall has recently welcomed a laser center,
exercise/dance studio, and a UPS Store.
Over the years, Township Theatre also opened its doors to private rentals for everything from fundraisers and school events to milestone celebrations like Sweet 16s and high school reunions. “The only limit is your imagination,” the owners promoted, encouraging guests to host private screenings of current release films or movies of their choice. Businesses and organizations took advantage of the space for customer appreciation nights, dinner-and-a-movie gatherings, youth group excursions, summer camp outings, and even corporate meetings followed by a film.
The Roses also built strong partnerships with local businesses through their in-theater marketing program—offering affordable advertising on the big screen, lobby placement for materials, and the chance to host special events.
And it was meaningful to the couple that this year Township Theatre was a finalist as Best Movie Theater in the Best of Bergen Read-
er's Choice Awards—”a true testament to the incredible support and enthusiasm of our loyal patrons.”
This spring, Township Theatre partnered with North Jersey Villages and Senior Helpers to host “dementia-friendly” cinema events, screening “Mamma Mia!” in April and “South Pacific” June 11. North Jersey Villages project coordinator Kathy Kuzma told us, “Unfortunately the Township Theatre is closing and will no longer provide this venue for a much-needed fun-filled
respite for those moving along the dementia journey. Thank you, Laura and David, for your warm hospitality!”
She said “ʻSouth Pacificʼhas so many beautiful songs and a few fun songs (like Happy Talk! and I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair! We had guests who knew the words of all! There were 40 attendees, and we captured the happy faces of just a few—but they represented the faces of many leaving the theater.”
a nature trail, exercise area, benches, sidewalks, and parking. “Our immediate focus will be on clean-
ing up the property and I will keep you updated on our progress,” he said.
On a June 12 tour of the property, Township Administrator Mark DiCarlo walked Pascack Press through the overgrown site, pointing out potential trail routes—behind homes on Ridgewood Boulevard East—and the deteriorated house interior.
He said the township had previously offered $430,000 under threat of eminent domain but returned to negotiations later. The council will consider future uses once cleanup and demolition are complete.
A Phase II environmental study by Lisko Environmental confirmed the presence of lead in the soil. “Most likely itʼs going to amount to nothing,” DiCarlo said.
He emphasized that cleanup costs are covered. “The best news is the township is not fiscally responsible for that [cleanup]; a hefty escrow was established where the seller is responsible for any additional testing or remedia-
450:
FROM PAGE 24
The house itself shows extensive damage: a collapsing porch, failing gutters, and water infiltration. Inside, it remains cluttered and in disrepair. A well pump has been shut off due to lack of power.
Town administrator Mark DiCarlo says remediation costs are covered, should any be required at 450 Pascack Road. “The best news is the township is not fiscally responsible for that.” Mike Olohan photo.
REAL ESTATE PASCACK VALLEY
DiCarlo said the property is not on a septic system.
A $550,000 Bergen County Open Space grant helped fund the acquisition. Liskoʼs Phase I report flagged possible contaminants— including fuel oil, lead paint, asbestos insulation, and historically applied pesticides. A $5,700 follow-up study was approved in
November; its results have not been made public.
The house was identified as containing “presumed asbestoscontaining materials,” with a full asbestos survey recommended before any demolition or renovation. Regarding lead paint, the report said sampling might be warranted depending on surface
conditions.
(See “Are there contaminants: Ball in townʼs court on 450 Pascack Road,” by Michael Olohan, Sept. 17, 2024, thepressgroup.net.)
Lisko estimates the house was built around 1887. While township records begin in the 1940s, aerial photos from the early
1900s confirm the presence of both structures.
Swim club site raises additional concerns Meanwhile, the town is dealing with environmental concerns at the 6.1-acre former swim club property on Ridge-
CONTINUED ON PAGE 30
Engineering found elevated levels of PCBs, asbestos, and lead paint—findings not reflected in prior Lisko reports. DiCarlo said Liskoʼs Phase I and II studies “did not locate anything further” and showed no signs of PCB use. He suggested
the discrepancy could stem from historical fill material deposited between 1955 and 1970. The township has filed an insurance claim with the Bergen Joint Insurance Fund.
Council President Michael DeSena requested clarification on why Liskoʼs earlier studies did not detect the PCBs, responding to resident inquiries.
A neigbboring property seen from the 3.2-acre tract the town now owns at 450 Pascack Road, also adjacent to Memorial Field. Plans could include a trail. Mike Olohan photo.
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