Veolia welcomes young anglers to Oradell Reservoir; immersive program welcomes school visits
BY KARENROBERTS FOR PASCACK PRESS
School may be out, but fishing is in. At least for the Emerson Fishing Club. These middle school students visited the Oradell Reservoir recently to try their luck at catching a big one.
“I love to fish,” says seventh grader Dylan Miskovitz. It was his first time at this reservoir doing what he loves and he says itʼs even better than video games.
“My grandpa was a very big fisherman and I went camping with him once and I caught my first ever
See EMERSON on page 28
STARS LINE UP FOR NEW PARK STARS LINE UP FOR NEW PARK
Shovels in for a future jewel of Woodcliff Lake
The Woodcliff Lake Borough Council on June 17 unanimously approved a more than $2.7 million construction contract to build a passive park on the former Galaxy Gardens site at the corner of Woodcliff Avenue and Werimus Road. Officials say“a good portion” of park construction, said soon underway at press time, will be reimbursed.
BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
NEARLY SIXYEARS after acquiring the 2.1-acre site and spending nearly $500,000 to remediate the former nursery and gas station property, the Woodcliff Lake Borough Council unanimously approved a more than $2.75 million construction contract to build a passive park on the former Galaxy Gardens site at the corner of Woodcliff Avenue and Werimus Road.
Mayor Carlos Rendo announced with evident delight
on June 26 that construction was to start Thursday, June 27; that by October all landscaping and installation will be in; and that the park will be completed by the end of the year.
He teased a grand opening for spring 2025 and said “Stay tuned for naming and sponsorship information.”
Rendo last week said the $2,753,123 contract was awarded at the June 17 council meeting to Applied Landscape Technologies of Montville, the lowest of two bidders on the longdelayed project.
Borough administrator Tom
COOL TRADITION
Padilla said approximately 11 contractors picked up the parkʼs bid specifications, and two submitted bids. He told Pascack Press that the borough has commitments of close to $1 million from prior grants and donations to help underwrite costs.
In mid-May, the council approved a $3.5 million bond for park construction, based on esti-
Continued on page 20
$18M kicks in if voters approve $62.4M bond for renovations in September
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
School trustees have accepted a state Department of Education letter confirming the district will receive slightly over $18 million in state aid—an increase over the anticipated $16 million—should residents approve the $62.4 million bond referendum to renovate George White Middle School on Sept. 17.
The preliminary eligible costs (PEC) letter from the state education department was received June 17 and unanimously accepted at the BOEʼs June 24 meeting.
The PEC letter estimates final renovation costs at $62,359,361, increasing the prior estimated total by $1,101,361. During previous public forums, officials estimated the total project cost at $61,258,000.
Lombardy told Pascack Press that prior numbers were always
See AID on page 12
John C. Storms, born in Park Ridge in 1869, in the summer of 1957 wrote an article about the Fourth of July as it was in the old days. Kristin Beuscher has the ever-timely account.
PAGE 4
CARLOS RENDO
To the editor:
O N SATURDAY, JUNE 1, the Westwood Board of Health, along with Westwood Senior Services, hosted our first Health and Wellness Festival. There were 35 local vendors, health and wellness speakers, and giveaways donated by local merchants—all at no cost to taxpayers. Our Health Department does
much more than manage vital statistics. They work daily to support a thriving community, including pet licensing, rabies and flu clinics, as well as monthly blood pressure screenings throughout the y ear in conjunction with our H ealth Commission, Northwest Bergen Regional Health.
Our health department also handles all food licensing for the borough and temporary food licensing for the many Westwood events.
Additionally, they manage all birth, death, and marriage certificates, are kind and knowledgeable in their community engagement, and recognize the importance of networking to bring these types of services to our residents.
PASCACK PRESS
On June 1, all board members, as well as our health department manager and registrar, were on hand to volunteer their time.
I want to give special thanks to board member Andy Merlo for bringing his vision to the finish line! Planning and managing an event of this size takes months of planning and commitment. Our board members and our seniors are volunteers who recognize the importance of working to bring health and wellness awareness to the community We are lucky to have amazing businesses that support our residents.
Send all news to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net
Cheryl
Hodges
Council president and liaison to the Health Department Westwood
Mayor dings colleagues on promises
To the editor:
TThis was the first event of its kind, and it was a great success. A special thank you to our speakers: Connor Wills from Quantum Psychotherapy Group, Dr. Karen Latimer, Elizabeth Badaczewski from HUMC, and The American Red Cross for demonstrating hands-only CPR. Thank you to Boy Scout Troop 350 for their help with setting up, cleaning up, and being one of our vendors. Thank you to the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps for their assistance, and to the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department, Westwood Police Department, Westwood Recreation, and DPW for ensuring the park was pristine.
Finally, thanks to all our local merchants who donated giveaways, to ShopRite (Inserra) for their generosity, and to HUMC for their swag bags and festival participation.
We hope to make this an annual event.
H ETHREE newly elected council members in Washington Township made some grand first year guarantees to the voters during their election campaign and as stated in the Nov. 6, 2023 edition of the Pascack Press
The biggest and most outrageous was a guaranteed 10% reduction in municipal taxes in their first year They never explained how they would cut the taxes. And it is now clear they never even had a plan. It was a promise. It was a guarantee. And it turned out to be one of many worthless guarantees and empty promises. It was a shameless fraud and lie they perpetuated on the residents and voters who they claim are their friends and neighbors.
The budget has now been completed, passed, and adopted. And as I expected, not only did they fail to cut the taxes by 10%, but they also actually increased your municipal taxes. No explanation has been given for breaking their promises and violating
NOTE: Letter submission deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday for the following Monday’s paper. Publication not guaranteed. Subject to editing. Email topascackpress@thepressgroup.net.
their guarantees. They are hoping the voters and residents will just forget the promises and guarantees they made and not hold them accountable. As an elected official, your words and guarantees must match your actions and when they do not, you owe your constituency a legitimate explanation. Not silence or meaningless excuses.
Mayor Peter Calamari Township of Washington
Parting
thanks to Joe Blundo
To the editor:
WE ARE ALL aware that Board of Education members eventually move on. What we fail to recognize too often are the accomplishments. I do not count the material gains, but the intangible ones. Joe Blundo is among these heroes. His time on our Board of Education is marked by a generous spirit and unwavering kindness. He remarked that what makes this district work can be found in our hallways. Joe never took his eye off that prize. Our students and our staff are the prize. Joe, I speak for many when I say, thank you!
With respect and admiration, Jeff Jasper At Pascack Valley High School Hillsdale
Ghassali claims allies on vowed action over affordables
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
MONTVALE
A growing coalition of nearly 40 towns in four counties has expressed interest in joining Montvale Mayor Mike Ghassaliʼs efforts to file a lawsuit—first in state court and then in federal court—to challenge the stateʼs affordable housing obligations. The lawsuit aims to require the 62 towns in New Jersey currently exempt from affordable housing obligations to do their “fair share.”
Ghassali told us that his effort to rally towns statewide behind an initiative to distribute affordable obligations equally among all New Jersey towns is gaining momentum. The next significant step involves hiring a special affordable housing counsel to represent the towns this week.
Montvale advertised in midJune on the State League of Municipalities website to hire a special affordable housing attorney to assist in filing the lawsuit. Applications are due to the town by Tuesday, July 2, said the mayor.
Ghassali hopes to get at least 62 towns involved in the lawsuit, though the more, the better, stressing that affordable obligations should be “shared” by all New Jersey towns.
He explained that there are 62 “urban aid” municipalities exempt from affordable housing obligations, including towns such as Hoboken, Jersey City, and Hackensack. He expressed confusion over why these towns have no affordable obligations, noting that he might not be able to afford to live in some towns currently
excluded from these obligations.
Other exempt Bergen County towns include Ridgefield, Cliffside Park, Garfield, and Lodi. Ghassali posted the full list of “urban aid” municipalities on his mayoral Facebook page.
“Ours (affordable obligations) would be lessened if the others had obligations,” Ghassali said, referring to the 62 towns not required to provide affordable housing.
In mid-June, Ghassali posted on Facebook, “The coalition of NJ towns for a fairly distributed affordable housing obligation among all towns in the state continues to grow, with towns committing from four counties so far.”
He continued, “This is going to be a coalition of 62 towns going to federal court. Each town is committing to $10,000 this year and $10,000 next year, totaling an overall budget of $1.2 million.”
Ghassali noted, “We are asking to include the 62 towns that donʼt have any affordable housing
obligation to be included, lessening the overall obligations for the rest of us. We want each town in the state to have its fair share of the affordable housing obligation.”
While 40 or more towns had expressed interest and support, Ghassali mentioned that only about a half-dozen towns appeared firmly committed to funding the lawsuit. He said hiring a special counsel should help steer more towns to commit funding, noting that a sample resolution for a town council to approve and join the legal challenge would be coming soon.
Ghassali, a three-term mayor and former candidate for Congressʼs Fifth District in 2019, has previously touted his success in settling Montvaleʼs affordable housing obligations early in 2017, avoiding protracted, expensive, and unsuccessful affordable housing legal battles like those in Englewood Cliffs and Park Ridge.
“All we want is our fair share obligation,” Ghassali told us. “The state wants us to build over 200,000 affordable units (statewide) in the next 10 years. Now about 500 towns will get (affordable) obligations and 62
will not. We want it split among all the towns.”
“We have a number of towns already committed to joining us and more in discussion, as far as central and south Jersey,” the
Ghassali said feedback from mayors and public officials about the lawsuit has been “100 percent positive,” with “some even asking me where to send the check.” He plans to meet with a group of Morris County mayors to seek their participation.
GHASSALI
Bckintime... Bckintime...
Westwood Police Officer Joe K elczewski makes the catch. Westwood Police Department on Facebook.
Police warn: Turtles nesting
The Westwood Police Department posted a reminder that turtle nesting season is upon us. During this time, you may notice an increase in turtle activity, including the presence of snapping turtles, as observed by Westwood police officers.
The department says many turtles spotted on roadways are females venturing out to find a suitable loca-
See POLICE on page 5
Young ladies and gentlemen, their nation’s future, help celebrate a long-ago Fourth of July in Park Ridge. ‘Fourth of July in the old days’
BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS
THE PASCACK HISTORICAL SOCIETY'S member publication, “Relics,” has been published continuously since 1955. The early editions are a treasure trove of memories offered by writers who had spent their childhoods in the Pascack Valley during the late 1800s.
Kristin Beuscher is president of the Pascack Historical Society, 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge. For more information call (201) 573-0307 or visit PascackHistoricalSociety.org
The editor and primary author in those days was Mr. John C. Storms, who was born in Park Ridge in 1869. In the summer of 1957 he wrote an article about the Fourth of July as it was in the old days.
“Fourth of July is entirely different from what it was in recollection of those who were youngsters 75 years ago,” he wrote, referring to those of his generation. “Even that differs from the time when there was a military display, drilling, firing of a cannon (and blacksmith anvils), and gatherings to hear the Declaration of Independence read.”
According to Storms, Independence Day was eagerly awaited by the children of
the late 19th century. For the little ones, school had closed just a few days earlier, at the end of June. For the older boys and girls, it had closed at the end of May. That was strawberry picking season, and they were needed for work on the farm.
“Pennies were scarce among the youngsters and had been religiously saved for buying the fireworks without which it would be impossible to properly celebrate Independence Day,” Storms wrote.
One of those children, who was a senior citizen in 1957, recalled the year he had managed to earn and save 14 cents for the big event. He invested all of it in fireworks and was the envy of the other boys.
Firecrackers cost 5 cents a pack, paper caps for toy pistols were 5 cents a box, and torpedoes were a cent for a small round package, Storms recalled.
“Torpedoes consisted of small stones with a paper cap in the package, and when thrown violently on a hard surface these gave a very satisfactory report,” he wrote. “These latter articles were left for those children who were nervous or afraid of real fire.”
Sticks of Chinese incense, commonly called “punk,” were kept burning constantly for the lighting of firecracker fuses. The job of waving the incense to keep the ember burning would be delegated to a smaller brother or sister.
For the adult men, their part in the patriotic display typically entailed firing off a heavily loaded old musket just at daybreak.
“There were plenty of burned fingers before the day ended and wise mothers were careful to have a supply of soft old linen and sweet oil on hand for the occasion,” Storms wrote.
Amid all these explosions, serious injuries happened from time to time. Poor little Luther Haggerty, the 10-year-old son of Rev. Theodore Haggerty of the Hillsdale Methodist Church, received severe burns during the firing of a cannon on the Fourth of July in 1894. A week later, young Luther was on the road to recovery. Since he had missed out on the July Fourth festivities, he decided to shoot off some fireworks he had left over. While lighting them, again there was an illtimed explosion. Luther was struck in one eye and blinded.
As the regionʼs population grew in the 20th century and houses were built closer together, municipally operated fireworks displays in the evening ended the earlier displays of patriotism—and seriously cut back on the number of injuries.
Hillsdale 125th Anniversary Committee scholarships, $500 each, were awarded at Borough Hall on Friday, June 14, to Justin Comer and Destiny Svorec, seniors at Pascack Valley High School. Justin is off to Pace University in the fall; Destiny is headed to The College of New Jersey.
With Lego, Destiny reproduced the Centennial Gazebo in Veterans Park. The inspiration behind her Lego piece, she said, “is displayed in a piece of art
depicting where some of my favorite memories were made.
Since I love Legos, I created this scene out of Lego bricks.
Police:
FROM PAGE 4
tion to lay their eggs. “We urge the community to exercise caution and kindness during these encounters.”
• Safe Relocation: If you encounter turtles on the road, please move them in the direction they were heading. This helps them reach their destination safely without further disorientation.
• Handling Instructions: For smaller species, such as painted turtles, it is safe to pick them up and gently move them off the road. For larger species, like snapping turtles and softshells, avoid direct handling as these turtles can bite. We recommend using a snow shovel to carefully scoop and move them off the road. Ensure you do not scrape their feet.
• Minimize Handling: Handle the turtles as little as possible to reduce stress on the animals.
• Safety First: Always ensure your safety first. Only intervene if it is safe to do so. If you need to stop, pull over to a safe shoulder and be mindful of the traffic, avoiding busy roadways.
The department said “Our officers, including Joe Kelczewski and Joe Sembler, are already actively participating in safeguarding our turtle population. Letʼs all do our part in protecting these important members of our ecosystem during their critical nesting period.”
For more information or assistance, please contact the Westwood Police Department. “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our local wildlife.”
Gerry Beatty and Police Chief Sean Smith, chairs of the Hillsdale 125th Anniversary Committee; Destiny Svorec; Justin Comer; and Hillsdale Mayor Michael Sheinfeld.
“The location is the Hillsdale gazebo in Veterans Park. This is where I would spend almost every day after school, walking from George White and meeting my friends. We would grab ice cream, sit in the gazebo, and discuss
Centennial Gazebo by Destiny Svorec
Officials urge early voting in hot Nov. 5 election
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
PASCACKVALLEY
Despite efforts by county election officials to increase early voting through outreach to community public access stations, weekly newspapers, and municipal websites, these initiatives resulted in only a slight increase in early voting in the June 4 primary election.
Elections officials told Pascack Press that 5,995 voters in Bergen County cast their ballots early in the
June 4 primary over five days.
In contrast, last yearʼs primary, which was a non-presidential year, saw 1,274 voters participate in early voting over three days, according to Debra Francica, Bergen Countyʼs Superintendent of Elections.
Out of 665,551 registered voters in the county, 13.4% (89,280) voted in the June 4 primary, reported the county Clerkʼs Office.
Weeks before the June 4 primary, county officials promoted early voting on sample ballots and in a four-page brochure mailed to
every registered voter in Bergen County May 29–June 2. In the Nov. 5 presidential election, voters will have the opportunity to vote early over nine days, Oct. 26–Nov. 3, elections officials said.
Pre-election mailings highlighted the countyʼs nine early voting locations, including River Vale Senior & Community Center and Woodcliff Lake Tice Senior Center, along with the times and hours for early voting.
Registered voters from any Bergen County town can vote at any of the nine early voting polling locations countywide. Additional early voting sites include Fort Lee, Garfield, Hackensack, Paramus, Teaneck, Wood-Ridge, and Wyckoff. More information is available on the county clerkʼs office website or by consulting your municipal clerk.
Early voting was officially introduced in 2021, following Gov. Phil Murphyʼs signing of an early voting law in response to the 2020 pandemic. Murphy had mandated
that all voters use mail-in ballots for the 2020 primary and general elections due to pandemic concerns.
For the June 4 primary, early voting took place over five days leading up to the election, May 29–June 2. Elections officials hoped this would encourage more voters to participate early, avoiding crowds and delays on Election Day.
“To promote early voting for the Nov. 5 general election, as we did for this primary early voting cycle, we plan to advertise again in 20 weekly newspapers with fullpage ads the week before early voting begins as well as promote early voting on the cable access stations of our 70 municipalities,” Francica said.
She added, “Many of our municipalities also promote early voting and make announcements at their meetings as well. We urge voters to vote early because of the
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
WOODCLIFFLAKE
The Borough Council on June 17 unanimously approved n early $6.25 million in new bonding, which includes increasing a previous bond ordinance by $2.7 million to repair damage caused by Tropical Storm Ida, bringing the total bond to $5.7 million.
The council approved a separ ate, $1.3 million, bond ordinance for various public improvements.
And the council approved a bond ordinance for $2.26 million to fund an emergency appropriation for tax appeals and prior tax appeal settlements.
According to borough administrator Tom Padilla the borough is expected to recover up to 90% of the Ida-related $5.7 million in improvements from federal FEMA funds.
The newly revised $5.7 million ordinance allocates $754,000 for the reconstruction of various stormwater outfalls and for sidewalk, guide rail, embankment,
fencing, stormwater pipe, spillway, and riprap wall improvements near the Old Mill Complex entranceway.
I t also appropriates
$4,946,000 for replacing the Werimus Lane Sanitary Sewer Pump Station, which was damaged by Tropical Storm Ida, including site and related sanitary sewer improvements.
T he revised bond total is $5.7 million, consisting of $5.428 million in bonds and $272,000 in aggregate down payments.
Also at the June 17 meeting, the council approved Ordinance 24-10, authorizing $1.357 million i n bonding for various public improvements.
This includes:
• $160,000 for acquiring automated license plate reader equipment for the Police Department.
• $325,000 for a new garbage truck for DPW with a gross vehicle weight rating exceeding 15,000 pounds.
•$277,000 for various improvements to public buildings and facilities.
•$43,000 for new communication and signal systems equip-
ment for the Fire Department, including radio equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus equipment.
•$22,000 for new Fire Department turnout gear.
• $5,000 for new or additional furnishings at Old Mill Swim Pool, including lounges, tables, chairs, and umbrellas.
•$25,000 for improvements at various athletic fields.
• $50,000 for engineering on various road improvements.
•$450,000 for improvements to the train station parking lot.
The total $1.357 million bond issue includes $1.292 million in authorized bonds or notes and $65,000 for aggregated down payments.
The council also approved Bond Ordinance 24-12, authorizing $2.26 million in bonds or notes for an emergency appropriation for tax appeals and tax appeal case refunds.
The ordinance states that the borough “is hereby authorized to (A) fund the $1.02 million emergency appropriation for tax appeals previously made pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Bor-
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
ough Council on Nov. 20, 2023, and (B) refund the aggregate amount of $1,236,255 resulting from cases brought before the Tax
28th Skip Kelley Memorial Outing Sept. 12
The 28th Annual Skip Kelley Memorial Outing is set for Thursday, Sept. 12, at Valley Brook Golf Course. The event kicks off with breakfast at 7:30 a.m., followed by a new scramble-format shotgun start at 8:30.
The participation fee is $720 per foursome or $180 per individual golfer.
Renamed to honor former Mayor Skip Kelley, who passed away in December 2022, the outing retains its legal name, the Westwood Charity Golf Outing
(WCGO). Over the past 27 years, the WCGO has raised and distributed more than $135,000 to local charities.
Since 2006, the outing has also awarded college scholarships to deserving high school seniors from Westwood, helping to nurture the boroughʼs future leaders.
Thanks to the success of last year's outing, the WCGO Committee awarded three $2,000 scholarships to members of the class of 2024. The scholarship recipients are Ryan Jarski of West-
wood High School, Archie Idea of Bergen Catholic, and Be'Tania Kiamue of the Academy of the Holy Angels.
In June, the Committee plans to send its annual letter to former participants and local merchants.
For applications or more information about the WCGO, email westwoodcgo@gmail.com
The organizers aim to sustain the outingʼs positive momentum, express gratitude for the communityʼs continued support, and look forward to a successful 2024 event.
Chris Kelley, center, and Roberta Hanlon, members of the Skip Kelley Memorial Outing Committee, present a scholarship to Ryan Jarski of Westwood Regional High School. Ryan, a standout student-athlete, consistently made the honor roll, a nd played for the River Dell/Westwood Hawks and Montclair Blue Claws Hockey teams, as well as Westwood Lacrosse. He is celebrated for his character, integrity, leadership, dedication, and positive influence.
PCHSaddsChrisFarrellaspresident
Following an extensive search process, the Archdiocese of Newark has announced that Chris Farrell has been named President of Paramus Catholic High School, effective July 1.
Farrell will join longstanding administrator and principal Dr. Stephanie Macaluso at the helm of Paramus Catholic High School, one of the largest regional Catholic high schools in New Jersey.
“I am honored to join this prestigious Catholic institution,”
Farrell says, “and excited to work in partnership alongside Dr. Macaluso, the administration, faculty and staff.”
Farrell brings a lifelong focus on building relationships in diverse educational advancement venues, alumni programs, and healthcare philanthropy. He earned a bachelor of arts in communications from Fordham University and has held successful leadership positions in secondary and higher education institutions at Essex Catholic High School, Bergen Catholic High
Ghassali:
FROM PAGE 3
mayor told us. He urged any mayor or council interested in joining Montvaleʼs future lawsuit to contact him at his borough email, mghassali@montvaleboro.org.
The mayor said the plan is to file a lawsuit in the next couple of months. However, he stressed Montvale would continue to meet
C hris Farrell , named President of Paramus Catholic High School, with p rincipal Dr. Stephanie Macaluso. PCHS photo.
School, Iona Preparatory School and most recently at Seton Hall University, to name a few.
“With Mr. Farrellʼs acumen in institutional advancement and development and Dr. Macalusoʼs
required state deadlines to comply with the new affordable housing law, rather than risk a builderʼs remedy lawsuit, which might allow a builder to construct a large multifamily complex to satisfy the boroughʼs unmet affordable housing obligation.
Officials from New Jerseyʼs Department of Community Affairs said they plan to provide numbers for municipal affordable obligations to all towns by October 20, as required under the new affordable housing law approved by Gov. Phil Murphy in March.
expertise in educational leadership, Paramus Catholic will have a dynamic president and principal leading the way forward,” said Barbara Dolan, superintendent of schools for the Archdiocese. “We are grateful for the community of faith here and their commitment to Catholic education.”
Paramus Catholic High School is a faith-based, college preparatory high school at 425 Paramus Road. For more information, call (201) 445–4466 or visit paramuscatholic.com.
Election:
FROM PAGE 6 crowds at the polls during a presidential election.”
Early Voting Benefits
In Pascack Valleyʼs eight communities, early voter turnout remained low, generally at 1% to 2%, with the highest turnout in two towns hosting early voting sites. In River Vale, 82 voters (3.14% of 2,610 registered voters) voted early.
In Woodcliff Lake, 72 voters (5.34% of 1,348 registered voters) voted early.
The majority of primary election voters turned out at the polls on June 4, with vote-by-mail ballots being the second most popular option, according to county election data.
Bergen County elections officials, leveraging lessons learned, told us that they hoped by increasing awareness of early voting days they could prevent overcrowding at the Nov. 5 presidential election, increase familiarity with the countyʼs new Dominion voting machines, and let voters experience the convenience of early voting.
Primary voter turnout in the Pascack Valley was generally around 20%, with the highest turnout in Westwood at 23.21%.
Family’s Civil War rifle worth $15,000, or south of it
BYJONFELZ R.Z.M. FINE ARTS & ANTIQUES INC.
Hi, Jon,
This rifle has been in my family for several generations. Our family folklore history about this rifle is that we had a relative who fought during the Civil War and that this gun was his. Could that be possible? Most of my family is deceased so I really don't know what to do with it. Please tell me Jon if this rifle has any value.
—Peggy in Closter
Senior appraiser Jon Felz of R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. answers yourquestions on fine art,American coins,and great antiques.Send your questions and photos to rzmantique@aol.com
Hi, Peggy!
I recognized this rifle instantly. But in which army did your relative serve during the Civil War?
This rifle was used by the Confederacy. Did he fight for the South?
Your pin-fire 10 shot revolving rifle is French-made by the premier Paris gunmaker Eugene LeFaucheux, circa 1860. The cal-
The devil is in the details. With Confederate States of America marking, this Civil War rifle could fetch $15,000.
iber is 12 millimeter and is equipped with a 24-inch octagonal barrel with fixed iron sights. The rifle features a scroll-style trigger guard and beautiful walnut wooden stock. Your gun appears to be missing the ejector rod. This rifle has the ability to function either double action or single action, which, during the Civil War, was something special.
The Confederate States of America ordered approximately 2,000 of these rifles from France
in 1862. Some guns were later marked C.S.A. If your rifle has that lettering it has substantial value in todayʼs antique gun market. Any weapons, especially swords, and uniforms relating to the Confederate States of America have great value.
Iʼve studied each one of your photos and did not see any Confederate markings. That said, not all Lefaucheux rifles used by the Confederacy were marked. Most experts speculate less than 500
were actually marked C.S.A. And thatʼs your challenge: Legitimately convincing a potential buyer that this was a Confederate rifle.
So, in all fairness I need to apprise this rifle two ways: If it is unmarked, not having any Confederate provenance, it has a value of $2,000 in its present condition. However, if you are able to locate the C.S.A. marking I refer to, your rifle has a value of approximately $15,000. Do me a favor. If this rifle does have the Confederate markings, let me know. I have many, many collectors who will line up to purchase it. They would fight to own such a rare Civil War rifle.
R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. is based at 132 Dexter Ave., Pearl River,N.Y.Call (845) 7351313 or visit rzmantiques.com.
Save the dates! Bookworm Book Club
Emerson Public Library says join the Bookworm Book Club! Free activities and yoga for children ages 3–8
Enjoy 12 months of curated book lists, personally approved by a childrenʼs librarian, featuring titles for early readers to more advanced young readers. What makes this special? Twelve monthly scratch-off pages with an image for each
one of the suggested books hidden behind a scratch-off sticker. Each time a child reads a book they find it on the sheet, scratch off the sticker, and reveal the picture underneath!
Itʼs interactive! Children will also get a coloring page picture frame. Take a picture of the child participating in each monthly adventure and put it in the picture frame! At the end of
the year, each child will have a collection of memories and the pictures to go with it! How do I join? The library says, “Each month, visit the Childrenʼs Room to pick up your monthly packet. Open to the residents of Emerson only.”
Bookw orm Book Club is brought to you by Danielle, The Bendy Bookworm, and Bold Yoga.
Aid: George White renovation gets $18M shot in the arm
S estimates, and information sheets handed out at the last forum on Jan. 11 note, “All costs are esti-
Fall,” Michael Olohan, Feb. 17, 2024, PascackPress.com.)
In an email to parents and residents on June 25, Lombardy
paying the remainder to modernize George G. White Middle School.”
While the approved state aid amount was slightly under $2 mil-
mates,” and highlight costs for the lowest cost Option 3 renovations with “Estimated Costs For Each Option” in bold.
Option 3 was selected by the public over three input forums soliciting community feedback.
(See “Board OKs $61M George White Renovation Question for
wrote, “We have exciting news to share! The Hillsdale Board of Education unanimously approved an action to accept the stateʼs contribution of $18 million in state aid toward the proposed Sept. 17, 2024, referendum project. The Hillsdale community will get these funds as long as voters approve
lion more than anticipated—the board previously estimated receiving $16,090,000—the superintendent told Pascack Press that actual impacts on property taxes were not yet available.
“This will be helpful in controlling costs,” said Superintendent Robert Lombardy.
Asked if he was happy with the additional state aid, he said, “I am, I am.”
Lombardy said he would communicate the news to parents soon via email. School officials also plan a virtual public forum on Aug. 7 at 7 p.m. with the architect, buildings and grounds committee, bond counsel, and trustees to answer questions.
Officials will present the referendum at the Aug. 26 school board meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Meadowbrook School.
Lombardy said the “previous referendum experience highlighted the challenge thatʼs been in existence. People are aware that action needs to be taken at the middle school.”
“This referendum is an investment in your children and schools and will pay dividends in learning and growth for the kids and in property values that will continue to rise,” Lombardy said.
The Sept. 17 referendum follows the nearly 2-to-1 defeat of a prior $82.7 million school bond referendum in March 2023 that sought to replace the 102-year-old middle school with a new building and a new artificial turf field.
The Hillsdale Public Schools board president and vice president are Justin Saxon and Christina Jennings, respectively. Regular members are Sal Sileo, Kevin Donatello, and Michael Kenduck.
Emerson Bible Church invites children ages 4–12 to join for a fun-filled week at its “Down on the Farm” event. From July 15 to 19, evenings will be packed with interactive Bible stories,
engaging crafts, energetic sports, and tasty snacks. “Fun on the Farm” runs 5:30–8 p.m. at Emerson Bible Church, 162 Linwood Ave. Call (201) 262-2430 or email pastor@emersonbiblechurch.org
LOMBARDY SAXON
Rendering of a proposed renovated George G. White Middle School.
Eagles Laux, Huvane put service front and center
An Eagle Court of Honor ceremony was held on Saturday, May 18 to recognize the scouting achievements of Westwood residents Jack Laux, a recent graduate of St. Joseph Regional High School in Montvale, and Aidan Huvane, a rising senior at St. Joseph Regional High School.
Storage issues for costuming were addressed with a variety of new shelving solutions, while props and assorted set materials were audited and organized, to support the creation of a physical and digital inventory.
Fundraising for the project was held during a summer theater
For his Eagle service project, Jack—son of Steven and Brenda Laux of Westwood—wanted to find a way to support the St. Joseph Regional High School Performing Arts facility, his home away from home—specifically the costume and prop areas of the theater.
camp taking place at SJR.
In addition to the cosmetic updates during the refurbishment, the goal was to make the spaces more functional for current and future productions. Jack is attending the University of Florida in the fall to study mechanical engineer-
ing.
St. Joseph Regional High School was also the location for Aidanʼs Eagle service project which focused on mental health awareness As Pascack Press reported of Aidanʼs project (“The Safe Place Aidan Built,” Feb. 19. 2024) in February 2022, Aidanʼs family received the life-changing news that his beloved uncle, Chris Huvane, 47, died by suicide.
It was with this passion and focus to help others who may feel alone or need mental health support, that Aidan came up with a project in memory of his Uncle Chris. Aidan had heard that other high schools in the area had wellness rooms.
He approached the president of
St. Joeʼs with the plan of emptying out an old storage area to convert it into a wellness center. President Fazio was on board from the start, hiring a wellness counselor for the boys.
Aidan sold suicide-awareness bracelets with the words faith, hope, strength, love on them, and organized dress- down days and an Amazon Wish List at his school.
Aidan and Troop 109, family, and friends gathered under Aidanʼs leadership to see this project
through. The room was blessed and it has been in constant use since its opening.
It is Aidan's greatest wish that people who are struggling will find this room a safe place where they will know they are never alone. Aidan is the son of Robert and Sarah Huvane, longtime residents of the Pascack Valley.
Troop 109 Hillsdale is chartered by Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Hillsdale.
Jack Laux and Aidan Huvane are honored for their Eagle service projects May 18. Both young men are from Westwood and are with Troop 109, chartered by Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Hillsdale. Steven Laux photo.
‘Lift every voice and sing’: County marks Juneteenth
The Bergen County NAACP in partnership with the County of Bergen at Overpeck County Park celebrated Juneteenth, a federal holiday, on June 15. This event
and Rafael Marte, and NAACP President Jeff Carter.
commemorated June 19, 1865, the day slavery was effectively abolished in the U.S.
Despite the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, it was June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, informed Galveston, Texas, that slaves were free.
President Joseph Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday on June 17, 2021. Over half of U.S. states now recognize it, with New Jersey among the first.
The celebration included elected officials, clergymen, residents, and visitors. Notable attendees included Senator Gordon Johnson, BC Executive James Tedesco, BC Sheriff Anthony Cureton, Assemblywoman Ellen Park, BC Commissioners Mary Amoroso, Tracy Zur, Joan Voss,
Host comedian Hamburger opened the ceremony at 12:30 p.m. Audry Hill gave an opening prayer, and Leah Hinton sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” which is often referred to as “The Black National Anthem.” [The hymn was written as a poem by NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson in 1900. His brother, John Rosamond Johnson (1873–1954), composed the music for the lyrics.]
Carter emphasized Juneteenth as a crucial moment in Black and American history, advocating for education and dialogue. He called Juneteenth an affirmation of justice, equality, and inclusion.
Gordon Johnson stressed educating youth about government and elections. Tedesco praised Carterʼs dedication to justice and
ADVERTISEYOURSERVICEINTHE SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS.
equity.
Assemblywoman Park highlighted New Jerseyʼs diversity, calling it a cultural tapestry. Amoroso spoke on progress and ongoing challenges in equality and inclusiveness, noting, “Weʼve taken one step forward and two steps backward.”
Cureton urged the community to maintain freedom through understanding history and voting, saying, “We can all fit at the table, but we have to make sure that we can get to the table!”
Keynote speaker Dr. Malva Wise-White emphasized the importance of continually recounting Juneteenthʼs history and striving for equality and dignity for all.
Performances included the Garden State Choral Choir, Thomas Jefferson Middle School Jazz Band, Teaneck High School Dancers and Twirlers, Jumpstart, Lady Luck, and Unicorn 151. The event also featured DJ BMoney, games, arts and crafts, face painting, vendors, and food trucks.
The Bergen County Division of Cultural & Historic Affairs opened Gethsemane Cemetery in Little Ferry for self-guided tours. This historic site served African Americans in Hackensack from the late 1800s to early 1900s. Free shuttles were provided to and from the celebration and the cemetery.
Submitted by Hillary Viders
The Westwood Recreation Department has expanded ForeverYoung program offerings with a new pop-up cooking class series led by instructor Joan DelGreco.
Utilizing the newly renovated kitchen in the Westwood Community Center, the pop-up cooking series aims to offer ForeverYoung program participants the chance to experiment
with new recipes and exchange culinary tips with friends.
The 2024–25 pop-up cooking classes schedule will be launched in the fall.
The Westwood Recreation Department offers many fitness and enrichment opportunities for adults 55 and up including yoga, chair yoga, tai-chi, pickleball, cardio dance, mah-jong, art and more.
Registration for Forever Young Programs is ongoing throughout the year by calling (201) 664-7882 or stopping by the office at 55 Jefferson Ave. on a Tuesday or Thursday.
Learn more at westwoodnj.gov/186/Forever-YoungOver-55-Programs For more info contact Recreation Director Gary Buchheister at gbuchheister@ westwoodnj.gov
Bergen County NAACP President Jeff Carter speaks at Bergen County’s Juneteenth observance. Hillary Viders photo.
BC Commissioner Mary Amoroso,BC NAACP President Jeff Carter,BC Executive James Tedesco,37th District Assemblywoman Ellen Park,Sheriff Anthony Cureton,and Commissioner Rafael Marte. Hillary Viders photo.
The Garden State Choral Choir performs at Overpeck County Park for Juneteenth 2024. Hillary Viders photo.
Check your town:School is out, camp is in
The school year is over and itʼs time for summer camp. Every community in the Pascack Valley
region provides day camps for young residents throughout the summer. Each camp includes a daily schedule of activities such as sports, arts and crafts and games to encourage social, emo-
Past Presidents
GFWC/NJSFWC The Woman’s Club of Westwood Federation Secretary Susan
Assistant Treasurer Sandy Weintraub, Treasurer Carol Handy, Recording Secretary Lois RuschFonde, Vice President Elaine Mooney, President Patricia Link. Not pictured: Corresponding Secretary Marie Sullivan. Madeleine Ciocco photo
WESTWOOD
At a recent meeting of the Past Presidents Club of the Palisades District, the following members were installed for the 2024–2026 term: Federation Secretary Susan Fosdick, assistant treasurer Sandy Weintraub, treasurer Carol Handy, recording secretary Lois Rusch-Fonde, vice president Elaine Mooney, president Patricia Link, and corresponding secretary Marie Sullivan.
The installation ceremony took place at the GFWC/NJSFWC The Woman’s Club of Westwood clubhouse on Kinderkamack Road. The Past Presidents Club of the Palisades District meets several times a year with the primary objective of promoting the interests of the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC.
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) is an international women's organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. The GFWC boasts members in all 50 states and more than a dozen countries, working together to make a positive impact on their communities.
tional, and physical growth among participants.
• T he Montvale Recreation Summer Camp runs June 24–July 19 on Memorial Drive. This camp is available for stud ents entering grades first through fifth. Each group has a designated, rotating daily schedu le of activities and projects based on each weekʼs theme. There is one off-site trip weekly to the Montvale Lanes Bowling Alley at 14 W. Grand Ave. The camp utilizes the in-ground s prinklers of the grass fields daily and inflatable water slides once a week.
The Borough of Montvale also offers Adventure Camp for young residents entering grades sixth and seventh. Led by director Candice Carlisle, Adventure Camp takes participants to various off-site locations. Trips vary
each year, but typical trips include Darlington Lake, Castle Fun Center, Urban Air and the Turtleback Zoo.
• The Borough of Park Ridge hosts a summer camp June 24–July 16 for kids entering K-7. The camp program includes activities organized at M emorial Park/Davies Field, Park Ridge Municipal Pool, Montvale Lanes and other kidfriendly trip venues.
• According to its website, the Emerson Summer Recreational Camp is committed to providing a range of activities that instill positive values and build self-confidence. This camp runs July 1–Aug. 9 and offers daily activities with a carnival every Friday to end the week.
• The Borough of Wood-
Shared adventure
PARK RIDGE
The Golden Age Social Club of Park Ridge on June 4 warmly welcomed two new members, Deidre Burns and her daughter.
This event marked a significant milestone for the club, as it was the first time a mother-daughter pair joined simultaneously “The induction ceremony was filled with enthusiasm as fellow members embraced the new additions to their community ”
The club, known for fostering camaraderie and organizing engaging activities, is looking forward to its next event—a festive
luncheon party scheduled for June 25 at the prestigious Hackensack Golf Club. This gathering promises to be a delightful affair, bringing members together before the club takes a recess in July
Regular meetings are set to resume on Aug. 6 with an inhouse lunch, where members will reconnect and continue their tradition of friendship and mutual support. The Golden Age Social Club remains a cherished institution in Park Ridge, continually enriching the lives of its members through social interaction and shared experiences.
Photos courtesy Barry Blecher SEE CAMP PAGE 17
Fosdick,
Residents weigh in: Township talks swim club redevelopment
SCENESFROM the first of a series Mayor Peter Calamari plans to host amid the planning process for redevelopment at the former swim club property, 6-plus acres on Ridgewood Boulevard North. WCTV-NJ recorded the meeting, June 25 at the senior center, and the session is available to stream. — John Snyder photos
Council vice president Mike DeSena and resident Mary Ann Ozment survey concept plans for informal discussion at Jack Woods Senior Center on June 25.
Township of Washington Administrator Mark DiCarlo,Mayor Peter Calamari, and rec director Eamonn Twomey observe as Kevin Boswell speaks.
Rec advisory board member Jim Hanson: Open space is good for kids. Some 20 residents turned out to the session.Others gave input online.
Left, Kevin Boswell of Boswell Engineering presents on concept plans June 25;a neighbor of the former swim clib site puts in a word for more buffer space.
Rec Advisory Board members Jim Hanson and Sasha Lopez.
WCTV-NJ’s Rick Wojcicki,on the job for residents,captures the informal session.
eats Dining & Cooking Guide
Camp:
FROM PAGE 15
c liff Lakeʼs C amp Algonquin runs June 24–Aug. 9. This program is available for residents ages 4-12 and teens are encouraged to volunteer as counselors. This is one of the longest day camps, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Township of Washington Summer Camp is held June 24–Aug. 2 at Bethany Community Center and Memorial Field in the township. This camp is open to any child entering K-8. Participants can attend trips based on grade including Funplex and Tomahawk Lake Water Park for grades 3-8 and Montvale Lanes and Township Theatre for all grades.
• Westwoodʼs Summer
Playground Program runs June 2 4–Aug. 2 at the Berkeley School for pre-k through third and Brookside Park for campers in grades 4–8. According to their w ebsite, the program aims to provide quality care for your children as they offer a variety of f un-filled activities such as games, arts/crafts and special events throughout the six-week program. Trips are offered for children enrolled in Brookside Park including visits to Pascack Valley Swim Club, Montvale Lanes, Land of Make Believe and Tomahawk Lake.
• The Township of River Vale and Borough of Hillsdale offer four camps together. Safety Town is available for the youngest camp group July 8–19 at the River Vale Community Center. This program is designed to teach incoming kindergarten
children about types of safety behavior. Children learn songs and poems, work on arts and crafts projects and enjoy fun, educational programs from various presenters. Days are planned around safety themes including fire safety, playground safety, stranger danger and first aid.
Kindergarten Kamp is a half-day summer camp for River Vale and Hillsdale children entering kindergarten June 24–July 5. Camp Have Some Fun is another half-day camp for children entering grades 1-8.
Camp Have Some Fun is held at the Roberge School on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and at Stonybrook Swim Club on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Campers also take trips to Montvale Bowling Lanes, Bounce, and rock climbing.
The full-day program
Can’tgetouttoGiulio’sRestaurant?
Prepareitssignaturedishathome
Giulioʼs Restaurant meets a full array of dining and entertaining needs. Giulioʼs welcomes walk-ins, but takes reservations and offers takeout.
Giulioʼs will be delighted to host your holiday business of family parties. Seating is available for up to 100. Catering is also offered and the restaurant has a full bar, including over 100 wines.
Enjoy making our Signature Dish at Home!
Salmon Giulio stuffed with crabmeat
What youʼll need:
• 10 oz. Salmon Filet
3 tbs Colossal Crabmeat
1 tsp. honey mustard
Dash of honey & balsamic vinegar
1 pepper diced
Stalk celery diced • Salt & pepper to taste
What to do:
Slice Salmon down center (lengthwise). Dice up peppers & celery add salt and pepper to taste. Add honey mustard mix together w/crabmeat. Stuff in center of salmon. Cook 10 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Drizzle with a dash of honey & balsamic vinegar dressing
• Buon Appetito!
Giulioʼs Restaurant is located at 154 Washington Street, Tappan NY. Open 7 days a week for lunch and
For reservations, takeout, catering, and more, call (845) 359-3657
offered by River Vale and Hillsdale runs June 24–July 26. The Summer Day Camp program consists of four camps: Little H awks for children entering kindergarten; Camp Pascack for kids entering grades 1–4; Camp Adventure for children entering grades 5-6; and Field Trip Camp for kids entering grades 7–9. The camps are held at Stonybrook Park, Beechwood Park and George G. White Middle School. Staff report
PASCACK VALLEY
Salmon Giulio stuffed with crabmeat
eats Dining & Cooking Guide
Next up at the Hillsdale Library…
Save the date for these events, courtesy the Hillsdale Free Public Library Foundation through the gift of Gayle and Paul Gross:
• July 9 at 11 a.m. Not Your Fatherʼs Heart Disease – Valley Health.
TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON
• July 10 and July 24 at 1 p.m.
Fitness Fun with Lois.
• July 11 at 7 p.m. Teen Bingo.
•July 12 at 2 p.m. Friday
Matinee: “Arthur the King.”
•July 13 at 2 p.m. Good Vibes Only Duo – Musical Performance.
•July 22 at 4 p.m. Babysitting Basics.
• July 22 at 6:30 p.m. Patron Picks Book Club — Science Fiction Recommendation.
• July 24 at 10:30 a.m. Watercolors for Adults.
KalishupdateswomenonWestPoint
Resident Steven Kalish, pictured with Joanne Toole, leader of the Womanʼs Group of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, recently presented an informative program about the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Kalish graduated from the Academy as a major in the U.S. Army. He is West Point Admissions Representative and Congressional District Coordinator for the 5th Congressional District in New Jersey, and a member of the Academy Nomination Interview Board for both New Jersey senators and for Congressman Josh Gottheimer.
The Womanʼs Group meets monthly and enjoys programs and activities throughout the year.
Madeleine
Ciocco
Giulio’s Restaurant
eats Dining & Cooking Guide
PascackPressDean’sListandMoreforJuly1,2024
Please join us in congratulating the following high-achieving young men and women whoʼve graduated area secondary schools and gone on to tackle even greater challenges…
•The College of Charleston recently awarded undergraduate and graduate degrees during the spring 2024 Commencement ceremony. Congrats to our local graduates: Stephanie Smith of Wash-
ington Township graduated with a Bachelor of Science in business administration, Emma Zabransky of Washington Township graduated with a Bachelor of Science in early childhood education, and Samantha Solotar of Hillsdale graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in studio art.
• Noelle De Magistris of Emerson is one of more than 750 students to earn the honor of being named to Alvernia Universityʼs
Deanʼs List for the spring 2024 semester majoring in criminal justice.
• The following students are named to Emerson Collegeʼs Deanʼs List for spring 2024: Matthew Ryan of the Township of Washinton, majoring in theatre education and performance, is a member of the Class of 2027. Benjamin Hoffman of Woodcliff Lake, majoring in media arts production, is a member of the Class
To protect, serve
RIVERVALE
The River Vale Police Department recently enjoyed a day of camaraderie and community service as they hosted a barbecue lunch for the River Vale Senior Friendship Club. Despite the heat, officers diligently prepared hot dogs and hamburgers, complete with all the trimmings and desserts. The event was well-received by the senior members.
At the conclusion of the event, Hilda Gonzalez, president of the River Vale Seniors, presented the officers with a fruit basket in appreciation of their efforts.
Officers recognized for their hard work included P.O. Kowalski, P.O. Fanning, P.O. Feorenzo, Det. Kristan, P.O. Mills, Sgt. Scimeca, and P.O. Krasic. The gathering underscored the strong bond between the River Vale police and the community they serve.
of 2027. Sofia Belgiovine of Woodcliff Lake, majoring in media arts production, is a member of the Class of 2027.
• The University of Rhode Island is pleased to announce the Spring 2024 Deanʼs List, which includes, from Emerson, Emma Wolf , Katie Tenebruso , and Kayleigh Taub; from Hillsdale Kaitlin Damascus, Casey Stewart, Erin Kearney, Nicole Perrone, Ryan Bargmann, and Elizabeth Jencsik; from Montvale, Ryan Giammanco and Bridget Fullam; from Park Ridge, Sophie Bogacz and Carly Unger; from River Vale, Sean Connolly, Mary Spillane, Nick Paskas, Lauren Kalfus, and Michael Caminneci; from the Township of Washington, Peter Sengos, Carly Boesch, Grace Haiduk, and Daniel
Sirois; from Westwood, Connor Burns, Gillian Siccardi, Elisabeth Jovanis, Colleen Saunders, and Madeline AugsbachThompson;and from Woodcliff Lake, Julia Belgiovine.
•Springfield College has named Lindsay Vogt from Westwood to the deanʼs list for academic excellence for the 2024 spring semester. Vogt has a primary major of physical education and Hlth/FCS.
•Susquehanna University congratulates its students named to the deanʼs list for the spring 2024 semester, including Montvaleʼs Gabriela Boyko and Tristan Costanza
• Sean Hannigan of Hillsdale was named to the University
Courtesy photo
SEE DEAN’S LIST PAGE 27
Stars: Shovels finally in on ‘Galaxy Gardens’ park
FROM PAGE 1
mates from the borough engineer (Neglia Engineering) and architect (DMR Architects), and said that the hope was that park construction bids would come in less than that amount, which they did. Padilla previously said that though the borough could authorize bonding for $3.5 million, “We only borrow as we need it.”
He said the borough was expecting “a rather sizable donation” from a private source to help offset construction costs, plus $246,000 in county grant monies to help fund the park. “A good portion of park construction will be reimbursed,” Padilla said.
Rendo previously told us that another source of park fundraising would include the sale of at least 14 personalized park benches and a donor wall for major donors and contributors.
Padilla said that local professionals and officials hope to have a preconstruction meeting with Applied Landscape Technologies by the end of June and to break
ground this summer. He was unsure if an official groundbreaking ceremony would take place. He said the borough hopes to have some amenities available by spring 2025, such as the bandshell and possibly veterans monuments moved to the site.
He said it was possible the site could accommodate Christmas tree and menorah lighting ceremonies this year.
On his Facebook page, Rendo proclaimed June 18, “After a long 12-plus years, I am happy to report that last night the council voted to approve the construction of the park at Galaxy Gardens.
Construction to start within a week or two. I thank the council for finally getting this done.”
Residents posted their cheers, with one saying “So excited!” and another noting “Thatʼs great! Itʼs
Road Park and Woodcliff Lake Public Park in concept plans, is what to formally name it. Padilla said the mayor and council hope to solicit public input on that front. He said theyʼll likely post a survey on the website and social media to ask for suggestions. He said the mayor and council will make the final decision on the parkʼs name.
going to improve the look of our town for sure. Nice to have some sort of center area.”
Another questioned the apparent lack of a dog run.
The parkʼs design was
unveiled in summer 2022 by DMR architect Francis Reiner; the conceptual illustrations can be found on the borough website.
DMR provided several concepts for the park, noting it explored “various options for passive outdoor space, a performance area, fitness and other amenities, with the intention of bringing history, athletics, entertainment, and outdoor living together in one place. The initial concepts … called for a transformational project including a great lawn, water feature, dog park, picnic areas, pergolas, a playground and an amphitheatre, among many other elements.”
Over the last several years, park construction estimates have ranged $2.9 million to $3.5 million, with officials, including Rendo, stressing that much of the construction will be covered by county grants and donations from companies and private individuals.
At the borough reorganization meeting on Jan. 4, Rendo said the two local priorities for 2024 were construction of a new Galaxy Gardens passive park and new walking trails around the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir, another longdiscussed amenity.
One overarching question for the park, informally called Galaxy Gardens Park but dubbed Weirmus
In two related approvals, councilors approved two contracts for oversight of the construction project. A $122,900 construction management services contract with Neglia Engineering to help manage onsite construction and a $60,000 contract with DMR Architects for architectural, mechanical, electrical, and landscaping construction administration services were both approved by council.
The 2.1-acre site was purchased for $1.65 million in January 2018 by the borough, after Valley Chabad, a local Jewish organization, had considered the site for an expanded temple building. Rendo then broke a 3-3 council tie to approve its purchase; the mayor only votes in case of a tie.
At the time, officials said the original price was $1.75 million, but that it was reduced by $100,000 due to future environmental remediation costs. Valley Chabad later sued the borough for religious discrimination and won the right to construct an expanded temple on its current property.
Serving with Rendo (R)on the dais is council president Benjamin Pollack (D) with councilmembers Julie Brodsky (R), Jacqueline Gadaleta (D), Jennifer Margolis, Nicole Marsh (D), and Josh Stern (R).
FRANCIS REINER
BEN POLLACK
TOM PADILLA
Construction is under way on the long-awaited passive park at the former Galaxy Gardens site, Woodcliff Avenue and Werimus Road. Borough of Woodcliff Lake.
Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
DR. KAPLAN: Improving memory and focus in six steps
Step 1: Revamp Your Diet
Improving your memory and focus starts with a healthy diet. Itʼs essential to avoid sugar, a leading cause of Alzheimerʼs disease. Some scientists suggest Alzheimerʼs is a combination of diabetes type 1 and type 2, possibly leading to its reclassification as diabetes type 3. Cooking your own food and avoiding processed
foods, artificial flavors, food dyes, fast food, and junk food is crucial. Incorporate healthy fats like avocado, olives, fish, nuts, and seeds into your diet. Use coconut and olive oil for eating and avocado oil for cooking. The internet is full of recipes for all diets, from keto to vegan. Join our Facebook group, Kaplanʼs Lunch Box, for daily recipes and meal ideas.
Step 2: Avoid Sitting Too Long Avoid sitting for extended periods. Many doctors call sitting the new smoking. Follow the “Rule of 20”: stand every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds, walk
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20 feet, and look at something 20 feet away. These frequent breaks can boost productivity and retention. A sedentary lifestyle negatively impacts metabolic processes and brain function, so start moving ASAP.
Step 3: Stay Hydrated Proper hydration is crucial for brain function. Think of a grape shriveling into a raisin when dehydrated—donʼt let this happen to your brain. Drink plenty of wellfiltered water. Optimize hydration with lemon water or by adding a
pink Himalayan salt crystal. The formula: drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily on an empty stomach.
Step 4: Practice Deep Breathing
Deep breathing is vital for brain function. Breathe deeply into your abdomen, pushing your diaphragm down and out. Exhale twice as long as you inhale. Start with inhaling for three seconds and exhaling for six seconds, gradually increasing to inhaling for eight seconds and exhaling for 16 seconds. Ensure complete exhalations to prevent carbon dioxide buildup, which makes the brain and body acidic. Your carbon dioxide also benefits the environment.
Step 5: Engage in New Activities
Frequently engage in new activities. Diversify your workouts, after-work activities, and routes to familiar places. Switch up your routine to stimulate different brain areas. Try new puzzles, board games, or physical activities like memorizing dance steps or yoga. Simple changes like brushing your teeth with the opposite hand, taking a new route to work, or cooking a new dish can also help.
Step 6: Utilize Neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity allows you to rewire your brain. Contrary to popular belief, memory doesnʼt have to decline with age. You may need a brain bootcamp of functional neurology exercises. At my NYC and Emerson offices, we offer brain exercises to improve memory
and focus. We strengthen the brain with neurological exercises, balance exercises, memory exercises, breathing exercises, and posture exercises, along with activities to enhance reaction times, coordination, and motor skills.
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A recent study shows onethird of people now experience neurological difficulties. To address this, we invite you to a $21 brain exam (normally $500) for new patients. This offer includes diagnostic tests and a plan to promote new neural pathways. We offer tools and resources like neurofeedback, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and cold laser therapy.
Join Our Event
Join our “Boost Your Brain Power” event on Tuesday, July 30, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in River Edge. The event features free organic food, a health and wellness seminar, brain evaluations, reading materials, and giveaways. Spots are limited; reserve your spot for $97 (normally $200) by emailing info@kaplanbrainandbody.com or calling/texting (646) 221-6738. Visit kaplandc.com, subscribe to Kaplan Brain and Body on YouTube, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. My book, Boost Your Brainpower: A Guide to Improving Your Memory & Focus, is available on Amazon. Listen to my radio shows on 970 AM at 8 a.m. and 710 AM at 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Function better, feel better, live better
On the other hand, real estate is a valuable asset, one that should be protected and watched over especially when buying or selling. Our law firm provides expert services in handling real estate transactions and this expertise comes in part from having performed these services almost 2,000 times. We hope you don’t have to leave our area, but if you do we are ready to help you... from contract to closing.
DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY
Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
THE SAVVY SENIOR: Do you need a digital will?
BY JIMMILLER
D ear Savvy Senior,
My wife and I had our estate p lan—including a will, power of attorn ey and advance directive—drawn up a bout 10 years ago but have recently read that our plan should include a digital will too. What can you tell us about this? Almost 80
Dear Almost,
If you or your wife spend much time online, adding a separate digital will document to your estate plan that provides a list of y our digital assets would be extremely helpful to your loved ones when you die, not to mention it will help protect your privacy. Here's what you should know.
Do You Have Digital Asset?
The term “digital assets” refers to personal information that is stored electronically on either a computer or an online cloud server account that belongs to an individual. Anyone who uses email, has a PIN code protected cell phone, makes online purchases, or pays bills online has digital assets.
Creating a digital will (also known as a digital estate plan) will help your loved ones access your electronic devices and online accounts more easily so they can manage your electronic affairs, according to your wishes, after you're gone. This in turn will also protect your digital a ssets from hackers or fraud, which can happen to dormant accounts after you die.
How to Write a Digital Will
Your first step in creating a digital will is to make an inventor y list of your digital assets, which includes everything from hardware to email accounts. Here are a few categories to help kickstart your list:
•Electronic devices (computer, smartphone, tablet, external hard drive).
•Digital files (for photos, videos or documents)
• Financial accounts (like bank and brokerage accounts, credit cards, cryptocurrency).
• Bill paying accounts (utilities, mortgage accounts)
•Social media accounts (like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn).
•Email accounts (Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook, etc.).
•Cloud-storage accounts (like Google Cloud, iCloud, Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive)
• Movie or music streaming services (like Netflix, Hulu, Spo-
Digital assets generally require a username, a password, or a PIN to access and can be difficult if not impossible to retrieve if someone is incapacitated or passes away.
tify, Apple Music)
•Online purchasing accounts (like Venmo or PayPal)
When making your list, you'll need to include usernames, passwords, PINS, account numb ers or security questions for accessing each account. And prov ide instructions on how you want your assets managed after your death. For example: Do you want certain accounts closed, archived or transferred? Do you want specific files or photos to be deleted or shared with loved ones? Do you want your social media profiles memorialized or deleted? Be clear and specific about your wishes.
You'll also need to appoint a digital executor that you trust to execute your wishes after you die.
From a legal perspective, you should know that most states have enacted the Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (RUFADAA), which legally recognizes digital estates. This law gives your personal representative or executor legally protected access to your online accounts.
Once your digital will is written, store it with your other estate plan documents either in a
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
fireproof safe or file cabinet at home, on your computer hard drive, with your estate planning attorney or online at a reputable d igital estate planning service like Everplans.com or Clocr.com. But make sure your executor knows where it is and has access to it.
Also remember to keep your
digital will updated regularly when you create any new digital accounts or change passwords. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
Award-winning women
Getting it done! Barbara Marino, left, and Madeleine Ciocco,members of the GFWC/NJSFWC Woman’s Club of Westwood, showcased their talents at the 130th Annual Convention in Atlantic City. Courtesy photos.
WESTWOOD
Members of the GFWC/NJSFWC Womanʼs Club of Westwood showcased their talents at the 130th Annual Convention in Atlantic City, bringing home numerous awards.
Barbara Marino won gold for her diamond painting and adult coloring, and secured second place for her upcycled creation.
Madeleine Ciocco triumphed with a first-place award for the clubʼs press book, and gold for her butter pecan fudge along with first place for rosemary shortbread. Nicole Dragona received a gold award for her paper art flyer. The event was attended by over 400 members statewide. For more information about the clubʼs membership and activities, call (201) 916-1580.
TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON
Knights send students off with generous scholarships
Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 held its Scholarship Awards Night on Tuesday, June 11, at the Council Hall, 79 Pascack Road. As the council does every year at this time, it recognized Township students and non-resident students related to members of Mother Seton Council for their scholarship and extracurricular involvement.
This year, five seniors were awarded scholarships: Mackenzie Quinn, Amelia Adler, John Kerrigan, Samantha Murphy, and William Murphy . Mackenzie Quinn received the $1,000 Mother Seton Council Scholarship, while the other four students each received a $1,000 James Picarella Scholarship. John Kerrigan attended Bergen Catholic High School, while the others attended Westwood Regional High School.
•Mackenzie Quinn is a member of the National Honor Society, the Science Honor Society, and the English, Math, and
Social Studies Honor Societies. In addition to her outstanding academic achievements, she has been active in varsity sports and school clubs, and has volunteered for many church and community activities. Her long-term plan is to attend law school, but first, she will attend the University of Tennessee for a degree in accounting with a management minor.
• Amelia Adler is pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming an engineer. Her next step is to study electrical engineering at SUNY Binghamton. Her academic achievements include serving as president of the National English Honor Society, the National History Honor Society, earning the Seal of Literacy (Spanish and Russian), and receiving the Math Medal at the statewide Academic Decathlon. Among her extracurricular activities were three years of varsity tennis, being president of the Set Construction Club, and volunteering in the community.
•John Kerrigan, an AP scholar, attained membership in the National Honor Society, the National High School and Twoyear College Math Honor Society, and the English and Social Studies Honor Societies. He served as a
WESTWOOD
peer tutor in the National Math Honor Society. John was a fouryear member of the varsity lacrosse team and a contributor to “This Week in Bergen Catholic Sports.” He has volunteered at St.
Johnʼs Academy and the Washington Township Knights of Columbus Council. John is preparing for a career in law and
Dragons U13A girls win Northern Counties Cup championship
On Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Ramapo College, the Dragons Soccer Clubʼs U13A Girls team triumphed over the Wayne Panthers Soccer Club with a 2-0 victory to claim the Northern Counties Cup Championship.
The Dragons showcased their dominance throughout the tournament, finishing with a perfect 4-0 record, scoring seven
goals while conceding only two. This victory adds to an impressive season for the Dragons, as they also clinched the A-Flight Championship in the spring. This achievement marks a historic milestone for the team, making them the first in the clubʼs history to win both the Cup and the A-Flight league championship in the same season.
Since 2020, the Dragons have demonstrated consistent excellence on the field, boasting a record of 65 wins, 16 losses, and nine draws; and they have appeared in three NCSA Cup Championships and have secured the league championship twice, underscoring their status as a formidable force.
— Via Dan Severs
Front to back, left to right: Piper Bocchino, Winnie Feinstein, Mia Campesi, Sophie Schembari, Meadow Garcia, Blair Colakua, Randy Garcia, Angie Avila, Aubrey Geipel, Ava Stabile, Kacey Chung, Quinn DePiero, Kayla Krenn, Lyla DePiero, Ariella Mattessich, Peyton Severs, Sophie Xaka, and James DePiero. Not pictured: Tatum Pellegrino. Photo credit: Dan Severs
Left to right are scholarship committee chairs Paul Elterlein and John Pimpinella; scholarship recipients Mackenzie Quinn, Amelia Adler, Samantha Murphy, William Murphy, John Kerrigan; and scholarship committee member John Brunelli.
5 WAYS TO HELP PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM FRAUD
From listening to music to o rdering groceries, almost all aspects of our daily lives are connected to the Internet in some way.
Nearly a third of Americans say theyʼre “almost c onstantly” online, with 81% using the Internet at least once a day.
B ut our always-connected nature can come with risks: The FBIʼs Internet Crime Complaint
Center averages more than 900 complaints a day; the center recorded $2.71 billion in victim losses in 2019.? Here are some ways you can help protect your family online.
1. Learn to spot imposter scams. Have you ever received a call, text, or email purporting to be from your credit card provider regarding suspicious activity d etected on your account? It could be a scammer trying to convince you to share sensitive information that would enable them to access your accounts.
Increasingly, these criminals
may be able to spoof caller ID or an email address so it appears t hey are legitimate. When in doubt, do not respond. Instead, alert your provider about the susp icious communication. Learn more about how to spot common scams at.wellsfargo.com/scams.
2 . Manage and monitor your credit. If your data has been compromised through a security breach, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file with the three major credit bureaus. Visit consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0014-identity-theft for more information on identity theft pre-
vention tips and resources you can share with your family. Make a habit of reviewing credit reports for you and your child at least once a year. Look for unauthorized accounts that may have been opened in your names.
More than 1 million children were victims of identity fraud in 2017, according to one study from banking industry research firm Javelin Strategy & Research.?
3. Limit what you share on social media. Thieves scour social media profiles for clues to s ecurity questions, passwords, and other information that could help them impersonate potential victims online.
First, set your profiles to private—and encourage your family members to do the same. Also, restrict your social media contacts to people you know personally.
Finally, watch what information you disclose. Revealing too much personal information in your social profiles can put you at greater risk of identity theft, especially if your bank or other companies use that information to verify your identity.
4. Protect your home network. Create a strong password for your wireless network in your home. Consider using a unique phrase with a mix of letters and numbers. Avoid using any part of your email address or information shared on social media, like the name of your pet, favorite movie, or anything else someone could easily guess. When you are configuring your router, the Department of Homeland Security rec-
ommends choosing the Wi-Fi P rotected Access 2 (WPA2) Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) setting, which is the strongest encryption option.?
5. Stay up to date. Cybercriminals change their tactics frequently, so families should stay on top of the latest threats. Be sure to work with Wells Fargo Advisors and other financ ial providers to understand ways to protect yourself as you conduct financial business online.
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 FDIC-insured/not bank-guaranteed and may lose value.
ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS.
ERIC KOHLMEIER
Dean’s list: July 1
FROM PAGE 19 of Mississippiʼs spring 2024 Honor Roll lists. Hannigan, majoring in integrated marketing communications, was named to the Chancellorʼs Honor Roll, reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.75-4.00.
• The University of Mississippi announced students named to the Spring 2024 Honor Roll lists. Larissa Aquaviva of Mont-
Knights:
FROM PAGE 24
will attend Clemson University in South Carolina.
•Samantha Murphy is a member of the National Honor Society and the English and Spanish Honor Societies. She has been a four-year performer in the Woodington Players as a vocalist and also served as its president. She was the second-ranked soprano in Bergen County. She is a volunteer on the Washington Township Ambulance Corps. She will attend the Westminster Choir College at Rider University and plans to teach for a few years. Her ultimate goal is to establish a childrenʼs theater company.
vale, majoring in finance, was named to the Deanʼs Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.50-3.74.
Ahren Frey of Hillsdale, majoring in integrated marketing communications, was named to the Deanʼs Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.50-3.74.
• The University of Wisconsin-Madison has recognized students named to the Deanʼs List for
•William Murphy is a remarkable individual who has lived with autism and has achieved a great deal. He has overcome many of lifeʼs challenges with determination and success. He attained straight Aʼs this year for the first time and has been a four-year member of the varsity wrestling team. He is an emergency medical responder and a volunteer on the Washington Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps.
He will pursue his higher education at Caldwell College and plans to work in a career that will enable him to help people dealing with autism.
Thanks went to Paul Elterlein and John Pimpinella for chairing the scholarship committees.
In 1882, Blessed Michael McGivney, then a young parish
the spring semester of the 20232024 academic year. The list is graced locally by Hillsdaleʼs Genevieve Simmons, College of Letters and Science, Deanʼs List; Park Ridgeʼs Ryan Buckner, College of Letters and Science, Deanʼs List; River Valeʼs Aimee Hoffman, School of Business, Deanʼs List, and Ethan Schwartz, School of Business, Deanʼs List; and Woodcliff Lakeʼs Isabelle Benedict, School of Business, Deanʼs List; Zach Friend, College of Letters and Science, Deanʼs List; Jessie Polson, College of Letters and Science,
priest in New Haven, Conn., founded the Knights of Columbus to serve the needs of a largely immigrant Catholic community. What began as a small fraternal benefit society has since grown into one of the worldʼs leading international charitable organizations, with 2 million members in more than 16,000 local councils.
During the past year, Knights around the world donated more than 48 million service hours and $154 million for worthy causes in their communities. In 2023, Mother Seton Council contributed $52,500 to charities and awarded $4,000 in scholarships.
Applications for membership in the Knights of Columbus are welcome from qualified individuals. For more information, call (201) 664-0422 or visit kofc5427.com
Deanʼs List; and Matt Schwartz, College of Engineering, Deanʼs Honor List.
• Alexis Mayer of Woodcliff Lake was recently named to the 2024 New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) spring All-Academic Team for softball. The recognition honors sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher. Mayer, a rising junior majoring in neuroscience, is a graduate of Pascack Hills High School.
• Anna Corbo of Westwood was one of 710 SUNY Cortland students who earned Presidentʼs List honors for the spring 2024 semester. Corbo is studying media production.
• Anthony Gibbons of Park Ridge achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA during the spring 2024 semester, earning a spot on the Provostʼs List at Hofstra University. Anthonyʼs major is filmmaking.
• Emma Arias of River Vale excelled during the spring 2024 semester at Hofstra, achieving a GPA of at least 3.5 to earn a spot on the Deanʼs List. Emmaʼs major is audio/radio production and studies.
•More than 1,700 Hofstra
University students earned their undergraduate, graduate, or law degrees in spring 2024. Students from the local area include Kyle Lowenstein of Washington Township, who studied law. •DeSales University students made the Spring 2024 Deanʼs List. From our area: Elizabeth McCarthy of Westwood, majoring in sport and exercise physiology; and Dominick Musco of Montvale, majoring in finance.
• A total of 2,226 undergraduate students at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) achieved the criteria required for the universityʼs spring 2024 Deanʼs List. The criteria for the WPI Deanʼs List differs from that of most other universities as WPI does not compute a grade point average (GPA). Instead, WPI defines the Deanʼs List by the amount of work completed at the A level in courses and projects. The following students were named to the Deanʼs List for spring 2024: Rhick Falcon, of Emerson, Class of 2025, majoring in aerospace engineering; and John Sirois of the Township of Washington, Class of 2026, majoring in mechanical engineering.
Hardwood Mulch
Emerson:
and I just started loving it even more.”
Veolia welcomed the young anglers, providing fishing poles and lessons—along with some hints to the best fishing spots along Veoliaʼs reservoirs.
This is the first year for the club, which started when educators and parents joined together to support the program. “I was lucky enough to get the fishing club here at Emerson,” says Club Advisor Bill Bliss. “ Weʼve been trying to start a fishing club for the last five years.”
Students practice baiting hooks, casting their rods and waiting patiently for a nibble. The group visited the Oradell Reservoir twice recently as part of Veoliaʼs Watershed Education Program.
“This is the first time we host-
ed this fishing club and it was a great success,” says Andrea Potto, who coordinates programs for students at Veolia. “Itʼs so important that the students get to experience the ecosystem, enjoy nature and
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actually spend time with the water.”
You donʼt have to be that good at fishing to enjoy it. Just be outside.”
The club attracted students like Logan Manning, who caught a largemouth bass. “I fish a lot with my parents and my cousins,” he says. “Ever since I was 6 years old. I wanted to do that with my friends as part of this club.”
“The club is open to everyone,” Bliss says. “We have a couple kids that havenʼt done a lot of fishing and a few are very involved. They are all pretty good.
On one recent day, the students caught seven fish, including largemouth bass, perch and catfish. They left with Veolia fish-shaped drawstring backpacks and special memories. Advisor Bliss sees field trips like this as a win-win for students.
“They get to enjoy nature, and have a respect for the environment and learn the importance of the watershed,” he says. “The other
part is having a good social experience outside the digital world.” Potto adds, “I would definitely encourage more schools to come and do a fishing event with us.”
To set up your own school visit. Contact Andrea Potto at andrea.potto@veolia.com.
Editorʼs note: Karen Roberts is a communications specialist, New Jersey operations, Veolia North America.
County kicks off summer movies, concerts in the park
County Executive Jim Tedesco, the Board of County Commissioners, and the County Parks Department announce the return of the Bergen County Movies and Music in the Park Summer Series.
The series features 24 events at four locations across Bergen County beginning on July 10. All concerts and movies are free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and/or blankets for viewing.
Five of the summer concerts will be held, in partnership with the Borough of North Arlington, at The Stage at Riverside County
Park–South, the countyʼs newest community performance space.
“We are thrilled to bring back the Movies and Music in the Park Summer Series, offering our community a chance to enjoy free summer entertainment in our county park system,” said Tedesco. “This year, weʼre especially excited to host our first-ever movie nights at Pascack Brook County Park, enhancing our summer tradition with new venues and experiences.”
Commissioner Steven Tanelli said, “We are excited to welcome back movies and concerts in the park this summer, which promises to be our best yet with a diverse
lineup of performances across multiple venues.”
He added, “I am especially excited about the events scheduled for the second time at Riverside County Park–South, which is hosted in collaboration with the Borough of North Arlington. The new amphitheater is the perfect place to enjoy a summer concert and demonstrates our continued commitment to enhance our park system for the benefit of all Bergen County residents.”
Get all the details! Visit co.bergen.nj.us or follow Bergen County Parks on social media.
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
Emerson Fishing Club members Luke Tortora, left, catches a perch, Logan Manning, center, catches a largemouth bass, and Dylan Miskovitz casts off at Oradell Reservoir. Veolia photos.
Emerson Fishing Club at Oradell Reservoir. Veolia photo.
IHA valedictorian Keating: Class of 2024 is force for good
166 young women received their diplomas from Immaculate Heart Academy on June 1. Including the members of this yearʼs graduating class, 11,188 young women are IHA alumna.
Graduates processed into the gymnasium to Pomp and Circumstance played by the IHA Orchestra. After a beautiful rendition of the national anthem sung by Madeline Heinimann (University of Scranton), the ceremony opened with Alexandra Barry (Princeton University), Student Council president, offering the invocation and Ella Bosse (Tufts University), salutatorian, giving a thoughtful welcoming address.
In speaking about theindelible bond of IHA sisterhood Ella said, “Reflecting on our time in these halls, I am reminded of the countless challenges we have overcome and the victories we have achieved together. Amid moments of doubt and uncertainty, you refused to allow your sisters to fall behind. In those moments, we found strength within ourselves nurtured by unwavering support of those who believe in us. What you all have built here is something truly beautiful: A community that thrives on kindness, fosters growth, and cultivates belonging. One that not only strives for success but empowers its sisters to do the same.”
Jaclyn Scerbak de Nicola, a professional dancer and Radio
City Rockette, was commencement speaker. The 2015 graduate told graduates about her dream of being a Rockette when she was 5 years old and how she hoped she could inspirethem to chase their own wildest dreams.
She said, “Do yourself a favor and donʼt hold yourself back. Donʼt give in to the self-limiting belief that you are not enough. Embrace that calculus lesson a little more and know that your limits are boundless because God doesnʼt give you a dream you canʼt achieve. When you feel unsure, like I did, rely on your prayer life and trust in Him. Trust that you are worthy of your
dreams well before you ever see them come to life.”
Diplomas and special awards were then distributed to members of the Class of 2024.
Class of 2024 valedictorian, Meaghan Keating of Montvale (University of Notre Dame), delivered an inspirational farewell address and recognized the love and support she has received from the IHA community and her own family,
She said, “Thank you for supporting our dreams and for all the sacrifices you have made to help us achieve them. To my own parents, thank you for your constant love and support and for showing
On their way! Kaitlyn Klaus of Ringwood; Cassandra George of Passaic Park; Ella Bosse, IHA salutatorian of Spring Valley, N.Y.; Meaghan Keating IHA valedictorian of Montvale; Hannah Hart of Upper Saddle River; and Natalie Deegan of Ho-Ho-Kus.
Photo credit Mike Hamlett
Photography.
me the importance of keeping Christ at the center of all I do.”
She added, “I am confident that Immaculate Heart Academyʼs graduatingClass of 2024 will be a powerful force for good in the world; a class who redefines female empowerment and most importantly, a class who shows the world what it means to be a woman of valor. I am so grateful to have spent the last four years surrounded by my sisters and I cannot wait to see all that you will accomplish.”
Members of the Class of 2024 received more than $45 million in scholarship awards and will be continuing their education at some of the most esteemed colleges and universities in the country — from Princeton University, Boston College, Vanderbilt University, and Cornell University, to University of Notre Dame, Northeastern University, Tufts University, University of Michi-
gan, and Villanova University.
51 students are attending Catholic institutions, 11 students are attending schools in New Jersey, and 38% are attending colleges and universities outside of the northeast, with Virginia, Indiana, and South Carolina among the most popular states in that region.
Ninety-one percent of this class was admitted to their first or second-choice college, and 100% will be attending four-year colleges. Some of the most popular choices this year include James Madison University with nine students attending, Fairfield University with eight, Fordham University with seven, and six students will be attending Boston College, Indiana University, Providence College, and Sacred Heart University. One student will be studying internationally at the University of West London.
Founded in 1960, Immaculate Heart Academy is an all-girls Catholic regional high school of the Archdiocese of Newark presently celebrating its 64th year. A Blue Ribbon School, IHA enrolls approximately 700 girls in a competitive college preparatory program from more than 100 towns in Bergen, Passaic, Morris, Hudson and Essex counties in New Jersey and Rockland and Orange counties in New York. For more information visit ihanj.com
What to know about landscape lighting
Home improvement trends come and go, and one trend that has become wildly popular in recent years is recognizable in yards every night. Landscape lighting has transformed how people see and enjoy their properties at night, making it one of the more sought-after upgrades among modern homeowners.
Curb appeal is often seen through the lens of how homes appear during daylight hours, but landscape lighting can make homes look better and more modern, and potentially safer, after the sun goes down. With such potential, landscape lighting is worth exploring for homeowners looking to upgrade their properties.
Are there different types of landscape lighting?
When considering landscape lighting, homeowners should know that there are various options to consider. According to the lighting experts at Lumens, spotlights project a concentrated and narrow beam of light thatʼs
usually around 45 degrees. Spotlights are often chosen to highlight specific features on a property, like a component of the landscaping. Individuals who want to cast light over wider, more general areas may consider floodlights, which Lumens notes spread light up to 120 degrees.
Inground lighting is among the more sophisticated landscape lighting options. Lumens notes that inground lighting illuminates the whole of a tree or structure, often creating a dramatic look.
These circle-shaped lights also are great at illuminating walkways and driveways.
Post lights are another outdoor lighting option, and these are often used to light up long walkways and pathways so itʼs easier and safer to navigate dark areas at night.
Is landscape lighting a job a DIYer can handle?
Many homeowners consider a do-it-yourself approach when pondering a potential home reno-
vation, and a landscape lighting project is likely to inspire such curiosity as well.
The home experts at HGTV note that the feasibility of DIY in regard to a landscape lighting project depends on the type of lighting homeowners want to install and where they want to install it. Replacing an existing electrical fixture may be well within the skill of a seasoned DIYer, but installing a new fixture is a job best left to the professionals.
Homeowners whose homes currently have no or very little landscape lighting are almost certainly better off working with a professional. Solar lighting that does not require any electrical work can be installed quickly and easily by anyone, but such options may not provide the look homeowners are aiming for
How much lighting is necessary?
The amount of lighting homeowners want to install is up
to them.
If the home currently has little or no landscape lighting, a consultation with a professional can help to determine how much lighting to install and where to install it. When discussing landscape lighting, homeowners may want to inquire about dimmers. Dimmers can increase or decrease lighting depending on the situation.
For example, homeowners
may want a little extra light during a party, but less when relaxing alone outside at night. Dimmers allow homeowners to adjust as necessary.
Landscape lighting is a popular home renovation trend.
Homeowners considering adding landscape lighting to their property are urged to work with a skilled professional to devise and install a set-up that makes their homes more appealing at night.
REAL ESTATE
What to know about installing a pool at home
Summer is a season of relaxation when school is not in sess ion, vacation season is in full swing and people everywhere are getting outside and soaking up the summer sun. Itʼs hard to imagine how that can get any better. But it can for people thinking of installing a pool in their backyard.
Pools definitely have a wow factor thatʼs hard to replicate. Homeowners considering pool installation can take note of these factors as they try to decide if a pool is right for them.
Cost
The cost to install a pool depends on a host of factors, including which type of pool homeowners are considering and where they live. According to the online home improvement resource Angi (formerly Angieʼs list), the average cost to install an above ground pool in the United States in 2022 was $3,322, while the average inground pool installation in the same year was $55,000.
Thatʼs quite a disparity in price, and homeowners should know that the average cost of each project is higher in certain regions and under certain circumstances. Potential ancillary costs, such as excavation and plumbing reloca-
tion, will add to the final cost of the project. The erection of fencing around the pool if no fencing currently surrounds the area where the pool will be located also will add to the final cost.
Pool type As noted, above ground pools, on average, require a considerably smaller financial invest-
ment than inground pools. This is an important consideration, but which option may ultimately prove the better investment is worth researching.
Homeowners can speak with a local real estate professional to determine if an inground pool or above ground might yield a significantly higher return at resale. If an inground pool is likely to
coated products can last a lifetime. Pools also need periodic cleaning, and chemicals to keep the pool operating safely and cleanly will require an additional, if somewhat minimal, financial investment.
Homeowners investing in a new pool should be aware of the maintenance required to keep the pool clean and be willing to do that maintenance. And though homeowners typically can open and close pools on their own, itʼs also possible to hire someone to do it for a relatively small fee each season.
Location
A survey of the land in a yard can reveal how smoothly a pool installation may or may not go. Though itʼs possible to install a pool in just about any yard, some spaces might require greater preparation and preinstallation effort than others.
increase property value by a substantial amount, it could be well worth the extra upfront costs.
Maintenance
Pools are undeniably fun, but they still require maintenance. The experts at Better Homes & Gardens note that vinyl liners in pools last approximately six to 10 years, while painted concrete may require a fresh coat of paint every five years.
Plaster finishes may last as long as 15 years, while cement-
Sloped backyards, for example, may require the services of a landscape architect to prepare the space, which can extend the time it takes to complete the project and add the overall cost. These are just some of the factors that merit consideration when mulling a pool installation. A homeownersʼbest resource might be a local pool company who can visit a home, provide an estimate and point out any challenges that may arise during the install.
Homeowners considering pool installation can take note of these factors as they try to decide if a pool is right for them.
BOOST:
FROM PAGE 5
school, and plans. This special place holds many of my middle school and early high school memories—memories I will never forget and always cherish.”
Justin submittedan original poem:
Hillsdale, a Great Place to Call Home
HILLSDALE, a great place to call home
We moved here when I turned two
Storytime at the library, puzzles
Books, fun memories
Memorial Park
Basketball, baseball
Walking our dog
Hillsdale, a great place to call home
Hillsdale United Nursery School
Building blocks, paints, books, and beads
Trunk or Treat at Smith, such fun
Demarest donuts, apple cider
Hayrides, apple picking, pumpkin patch
Ragamuffin parade, costumes galore
Hillsdale police station
REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS
always ready to help
Hillsdale, a great place to call home
Stonybrook Pool Club, swimming Ping pong, games on the field
Memorial Day parade, candies flying
Honoring heroes, in the morning light
Hillsdale, a great place to call home
Movie nights at Meadowbrook, Harvest Festival
Indoor soccer at Smith
Meeting friends from the other side of town
Hillsdale, a great place to call home
Hillsdale United Methodist Church
Cub Scouts, Pinewood Derby
Hillsdale, a great place to call home
Beechwood Park, swings, monkey bars, slides Easter egg hunts
Summer concerts, Fright Night in the Woods
Wendyʼs, Veterans Park
Town center
Holiday lights, Santa, candy canes
Tree lighting, menorah bright
St. Johnʼs Church
Geese by the Pascack Brook CCD, basketball
Fishing competitions
George White
Tightly packed lockers
Creating friendships
Hillsdale Hoops
Making memories
Welcome-home parade
Hillsdale Hawks
Pride on Broadway
Fire truck escort
Shop local, give back
Chicken Delight
Kenʼs, Karl Ehmer, Matsu Game Zone, Marsalaʼs
The list goes on Hillsdale, a great place to call home
MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE
Join our ever growing sales team as as Sales Associate for the Pascack Press, Northern Valley Press North and South and near future publications. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 201-664-2105 OR SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net
In tough times, the communityʼs there
For sickness, loss, or any despair
Helping hands, showing they care
Gift baskets, notes, prayers Hillsdale, a great place to call home
Pascack Valley
Four years flew Time to graduate
And start anew
Friendly faces, a smile, a wave
To friends you know and strangers you havenʼt met
Letter carriers
Crossing guards, dog walkers
Our communityʼs here to stay
Hillsdale, a great place to call home!
Timeless celebration: PRFD Rescue 6 wetdown
In a wetdown, squads of firefighters from neighboring towns “commission“ new fire apparatus by anointing it with water sprayed from the visitors’ firefighting equipment. Fire Engineering explains, “The tradition dates back to the late 1800s, when fire departments used horses to pull a fire apparatus to fires. After fighting the fire, the crews would wash and ready the horses and the apparatus in preparation for the next call, then they would push the apparatus into the station’s bay. “
THE PARK RIDGE Volunteer Fire Department wetdown, June 15, drew hundreds to cheer Rescue 6 and partake of shirts, mugs, free food, a 50/50, and much community joy.
Mayor Keith Misciagna posted from his vantage point that several towns joined in to celebrate the boroughʼs 2023 Pierce Mfg. ArrowXT Rescue 6 truck:
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us! Under the leadership of Chief Durst, our fire department diligently works to keep our community safe. We are thrilled to provide them with the necessary equipment to continue their vital work. God bless our fire department members, and may this new rescue truck enhance their ability to protect our residents and ensure the safety of our entire team.”
Here are several photos from the day, via Misciagnaʼs official page. (Go there for many more!)
Cheers! Scenes from the Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department wetdown, June 15. Photos via Borough of Park Ridge/Mayor Keith Misciagna on Facebook.
Northwood Golf Club invites new members
Northwood Golf Club, established alongside Rockleigh Golf Course in 1959, announces its 2024 season lineup, inviting local golfers to join its vibrant community.
With 16 tournaments and multiple outings scheduled, N orthwood promises a season filled with friendly competition and camaraderie. From individual play to team events, including two-player and four-player formats, thereʼs something for all. Northwood Golf Club prides itself on inclusivity, catering to
players of all skill levels with sanctioned handicaps ranging from single digits to upper ranges. C lub Championships and Age Group Championships feature multiple flights, ensuring fair play and excitement for all members.
New members are welcomed
with a reduced first-year membership fee of $75, covering access to premier facilities, Metropolitan G olf Association membership, GHIN handicap service, MGA Magazine subscription, tournament prizes, and event trophies.
The 2024 tournament season runs April 22–Oct. 13, with outings at Bergen County courses
and beyond, facilitated by the GHIN app. The season concludes with the annual Business Dinner Meeting at Madeleineʼs Petit Paris in Northvale, featuring awards, officer elections, and plans.
For applications, email Jim Dugan at dunloedoog@aol.com
Pool safety essentials to live by
A backyard pool can be a wonderful summer oasis. Swimming immediately cools people off on hot and humid days, and even provides thorough exercise that works many different muscles in the body. And summer revelers know that swimming and splashing in the pool is an entertaining activity for people of all ages.
Though pools are great summer spaces, one downside of pool usage is the potential for drowni ng. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that, every year in the United States, there are an estimated 3,960 fatal unintentional drownings — an average of 11 drowning deaths per day.
In addition, around 8,080 nonfatal drownings occur. Itʼs important to note that many of these incidents are unrelated to pool usage, as boating and even bathtub accidents contribute to drowning as well. But a 2020 review of 2,213 unintentional immersion deaths and other water-related injury deaths in Canada by the Canadian Red Cross found that immersion deaths were most likely to occur
when swimming and wading.
Children ages one to four, males, and people with seizure disorders or other medical conditions like autism are among those at a higher risk for drowning.
Pools are fun, but itʼs a great
Spread the word!
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responsibility to keep all swimmers safe. The following are some pool safety measures to put into effect.
• Keep water sanitary. Make sure pool water is chemically balanced so that it is comfortable to swim in and will not harbor any pathogens that can make swimmers ill. The pool equipment company Pahlen says the ideal water pH is 7.4 because that is the same as the pH in human eyes and mucous membranes, and it also supports good
chlorine disinfection.
The free chlorine content of a pool can range from 0.5 to 1.6 to keep it sanitary. A quality testing kit can help pool owners balance water.
• Learn your local ordinances. Local ordinances will spell out which precautionary measures are required by law for people who have a backyard pool.
These often include a fenced yard, a fence around inground pools that is at least four feet high, self-latching gates, and/or
pool ladders that can be locked or closed when the pool isnʼt in use.
• Rely on non-slip surfaces. The pool environment can be wet and slippery. Utilizing materials like non-slip deck surfaces or rougher concrete finishes around pools can help reduce some slips and falls.
The pool resource Poolonomics says people should be instructed to avoid running near or around the pool.
• Inspect water returns a nd drains. PoolSafety.gov warns that hair, limbs, jewelry, or bathing suits can get stuck in a drain or suction opening in a pool or spa. Broken or missing drain covers should be replaced immediately and no swimming should occur until the issue is remedied.
• Install other barriers. Barriers, alarms and pool covers can save lives and prevent access to pool water when the pool area is not in use.
• Learn how to swim and perform CPR. F amilies can take swimming lessons to become better swimmers. Learning how to perform CPR on adults and children can save lives. Courses are available at many hospitals and community centers or through the Red Cross. Swimming pools are welcome additions to yards. Safety is vital when around water.
PART-TIME SENIOR VAN DRIVER – BOROUGH OF WESTWOOD - Must possess a valid New Jersey Driver’s License and have the ability to operate wheelchair lift equipment after completing the required training video: Wheelchair Lift and Securement. Must be able to work harmoniously, cooperatively, and courteously with Senior and Disabled passengers at all times and be able to maintain a calm manner in stressful and emergency situations. Hours required are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., one to two days a week with occasional hours for special events. Geography and community knowledge of the local area, including Hillsdale, Emerson, Westwood, River Vale, Township of Washington, etc. required as well as ability to follow GPS, maps and written directions. Candidate must possess effective time management, planning and organizational skills. The Borough reserves the right to review resumes and conduct interviews as they are received. Interested candidates should send cover letter and resume via email to Gary Buchheister atgbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov on or before June 14, 2024 by 4pm. Resumes to be mailed should be sent to Gary Buchheister, Recreation Director, 55 Jefferson Avenue, Westwood NJ 07675. Westwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
P/T Secretarial, Good filling skills a must, $25 per hour Hillsdale. Call 201-615-9316.
Sr. Product & Service Development Engineer for BMW of North America, LLC in Woodcliff Lake, NJ to perform work that is essential to the successful and efficient operation of the technology between the US and Germany for BMW of North America. Requires: Bachelor's degree in Electronic Engg, Mechanical Engg, Business Info Sys., or related scientific field (willing to accept forgn edu equiv.) + 5 yrs’ exp in Sr Product & Service Development Engineer or related occupation (engineering-related project management or personnel supervision experience). Or, alternatively: a Master’s + 3 yrs’exp. Email resume to karen.cochran@ bmwsharedservices.com. Reference Position Number: 2400007H.
P/T BookkeeperNorwood, weekdays on premises.15-20 hr/wk flexible. Exp. in Quickbook/Excel.Call Sandy (201) 726-2426.
-Part time Receptionist for busy Salon in Westwood. Call Colleen at (201) 664-4663.
Falasca’s Friendly Service in Hillsdale is seeking P/T Mechanic Exp. Preferred, motivated, Tires, Oil Changes & more. Call Carl or Rich at 201-666-1414.
Caregiver needed for facility in Bergen County, excellent references required. Call Anthony at (973) 652-1293
Senior female, 60s, quiet, clean non-smoker, nondrinker, seeks room, preferably in house with same. Contact: hellobergen@gmail.com or 551207-6895.
Metal filing cabinets, some 3 feet wide, some 18 inches wide; 3 feet tall; for sale, best offer, in Hillsdale. 201-954-0226.
2002 Ford F-350 - 4x4 Mason Dump with
hook
Diesel, runs good, 85k miles. Must see. $8000. Call 201615-9316.
Dive in to these pool safety tips…
Plenty of people can be found working their grilling magic yearround. But the vast majority of people do the bulk of their grilling over the summer, when warm temperatures contribute to a relaxed atmosphere that makes outdoor cooking and dining that much more appealing.
The relaxing nature of summer can make it easy to overlook safety, particularly when grilling. However, the right safety measures when cooking over an open flame can prevent home fires and other accidents that
GRILLSAFELYTHISSUMMER
can cause injury and even death.
• Only use a grill outside. Grills should never be used indoors, and that includes in garages with the doors open. Before lighting a flame, make sure the grill is at least three feet from siding, deck rails and eaves.
• Establish a safe zone around the grill. A three-foot safe zone around the grill can decrease the likelihood that pets will run into and potentially tip over the grill. Kids can be taught to respect this zone as well so they avoid being burned.
Jane M. GLASNER
Jane Martin Glasner was born on June 1, 1926, the same day as Marilyn Monroe. Jane was a happy, loving woman who cherished her family, music, camping, and Model T car trips. She passed away peacefully at home on June 21, 2024, after a short battle with cancer. Jane moved many times as a child with her parents, John Martin and Daisy Grimm Martin, and her seven siblings: Herbert Martin, John Martin (Fran), Betty Chifulio (George), Richard Martin (Connie), Amy Niero (Ken), Thomas Martin (all deceased), and David Martin.
On May 30, 1948, Jane married Robert (Bob) Glasner at the Grace Episcopal Church in Hillsdale. A year later, they welcomed Robert A. Glasner (Janet) and, in 1956, Donald (Gail). Jane and Bob were married for 68 years until Bob passed away in 2016.
The couple frequently moved, enjoying buying, fixing up, and selling houses. Jane became skilled at painting, wallpapering, and other home repairs, always alongside Bob. They continued this hobby into their 70s, and Jane was in the house that Bob built when she passed.
Jane worked as a secretary after graduating high school in New York City, later working at the United Methodist Church in Park Ridge, her husband Bobʼs business B&D Paving, and for the president of Ramapo College for many years after her sons were grown. She loved the beach and spent summers at her auntʼs house in Seaside Heights with her sisters-in-law when the boys were small. Jane enjoyed music, especially old-time hymns, folk, classic country, and Willie Nelson. She played the guitar, tried the organ, and sang with the Lakeside Choraliers in the seventies.
Jane and Bob loved camping and made many trips in their various RVs with family and friends. They traveled to the Florida Keys and Zephyr Hills, Fla., for two months at a time and visited Hershey, Pa., annually for the antique car show. Bob had a Model T Ford and a Model A, and they
• Open a gas grill before lighting it. Charcoal grills, hybrid grills and smokers cannot be lit unless the lid is lifted. That isnʼt the case with gas grills, but gas grills should never be lit with the lid closed. If a gas grill is lit with its lid closed, gas can build up inside and that could cause an explosion. Even if thereʼs some summer rain falling, open the lid on a gas grill before turning the ignition switch.
• Keep an eye on the grill at all times. Itʼs tempting to walk away
from a grill while food is cooking, but someone should always be tasked with staying close to the grill. If cooks must walk away, ask another adult to stay close to the grill until you return.
• Clean the grill regularly. Regular cleaning of the grill is both healthy and safe. Cleaning helps to ensure the cooking surface is clean and unlikely to cause food poisoning. But a grease-free grill also poses less of a fire hazard than one that hasnʼt been cleaned.
OBITUARIES
loved attending car shows and working on the cars at home. Jane often hosted car club meetings, delighting the members with her “dump” cakes. They were known for participating in local parades as the “Beverly Hillbillies” truck and enjoyed extended antique car tours around the country.
Jane was a wonderful grandmother to Luke (Erica), Dustin (Charlotte), and Alexandra (Kush), attending many of their events and encouraging them in their lives. She delighted in her great-grandchildren Jacob, Katherine (Luke), Naomi (Dustin), and Leon Sadiku (Alexandra).
Visitation 4–8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25 at Robert Spearing Funeral Home Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge. Funeral serviceat 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26 at Park Ridge United Methodist Church, 130 Berthoud St., Park Ridge. Interment in Westwood Cemetery. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Park Ridge United Methodist Church or St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital (stjude.org).
W inifred ‘W innie’ MISCIAGNA
Winifred “Winnie” Ann Misciagna (née Garda) passed away on June 18, 2024, while surrounded by her loving family. She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Thomas D. Misciagna. She was also predeceased by her brother Edward Garda, sister Victoria Cardinali, and both parents.
She is survived by her sister Dorothy (Nisler) of Toms River, and her sisters-in-law Leona Nersesian (husband Carnig) and Ann Garda. She is also survived by her three devoted sons: Thomas (wife Doreen) and their four children, Thomas, Karl, Jackie Lee Whitehead (husband Rob and their daughter Lia), and John; Keith (wife Desiree) and their three children, Keith Jr., Ashley Gerhardstein (husband Alex), and Ryan; and Christian (wife Amy) of Syracuse, N.Y., and their two children, Olivia and Christian Jr. She is also survived by many loving nieces and
nephews and their families, all of whom she loved very much.
Winnie was born in Jersey City on May 11, 1936, to Winifred Atkinson and John Garda. She met the love of her life, Thomas, when they were 14 and 15 years old, and they married in 1957, residing in North Bergen and Union City.
She was proud to have worked for the U.S. Army and Air Force in New York City before having children.
In 1964, she and Thomas moved to Hillsdale and raised their three children. Winnie was an active participant in her life and her community. She was proud to be the president of the local PTA at Anne Blanche Smith School and a den mother for Cub Scouts. She attended Bergen Community College and was known throughout her community for her outgoing, friendly demeanor. She has been described by those who really knew her as easygoing, confident, and comfortable in her own skin. The best kind of great lady: smart, funny, down-to-earth, caring, and interested in everyone and everything around her
Besides her family, she was most proud of her business, Repeat Performance, which she owned and operated in Park Ridge for more than 45 years. Her shop, as she called it, was a labor of love and gave Winnie the ability to help others. She often provided prom dresses, suits, or work clothes to those in need free of charge or close to it. As a devoted Christian, she felt it was her duty and was grateful to be able to help those in need, never mentioning it to anyone—something she learned from her mother early in her life.
She was able to make friends easily and loved talking to anyone and everyone. She also loved parties and planning them. In her final months, she organized a few get-togethers with her family and friends at her home and was looking to do more. She was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. She loved serving others and laughing with them. She will be missed by all who knew her
Viewing at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Monday, June 24, 5–7:30 p.m. Burial service 10 a.m. on June 25. Burial at George Washington Memorial Park in
• Let coals cool before discarding them. Coals from the grill should be given ample time to cool before theyʼre removed from the grill and discarded.
• Remember to turn the gas valve to the off position after cooking. When cooking with gas grills, cooks must remember to turn the valve to the off position once all the food has been cooked.
Simple safety measures can ensure summer grilling season goes off without a hitch.
Paramus at 11 a.m. A repass will follow.
Nancy G. DIETEL
Nancy Gertrude Dietel (n ée Mockridge), 87, of Westwood was received by Our Lord on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
Nancy was born in Newark to Raymond and Helen ( née Glover) Mockridge and graduated West Side High School of Newark in 1954. Beloved wife of the late Donald for 61 years. Devoted mother of Ken, Bruce and his wife Patty and Chris and his wife Sylvia. Loving grandmother of Eric, Kelliann and her husband Bill, Matthew and his wife Kate and Thomas as well as great-grandmother to Maisy. She is predeceased by her parents Raymond and Helen as well as her husband Donald.
Nancy graduated Douglass College, Class of 1958, with a degree in elementary education. While at Douglass, she met her future husband, Don, after he returned from service in the U.S. Army to complete his degree at Rutgers.
She began a teaching career as a fourth-grade teacher in Paramus, departing to be a stay-at-home mom. While raising her boys, she was active as a volunteer school librarian, volunteer at St. Andrew R.C. Church, Cub Scout den mother and Girl Scout leader. As her boys became older, she became active with the Westwood Public Library, starting as a volunteer reader for storybook hours, and ultimately developing and coordinating the highly successful English as a Second Language (ESL) program for over 20 years.
Nancy was a founding member of the Open Salt Collectors of the Atlantic Region (OSCAR) and an avid collector of salt cellars/dishes. She and Don attended many meetings and conventions and loved the active community of collectors throughout the years.
The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Saturday, June 29 from 1 to 3 p.m. Private burial to follow
Memorial contributions can be made in Nancyʼs name to the Westwood Public Library ESL Program. Email library@
Westwood.BCCLS.org or visit f riend-of-the-westwood-publiclibrary.square.site.
Margaret ‘Peggy’ A. BAILEY
M argaret “Peggy” A. Bailey, 91, of the Township of Washington, passed away on Jan. 30, 2 024. Predeceased by her beloved husband, George J. Bailey. Devoted mother of George Bailey and his wife, Jessica Rutzick; Eileen Bailey Frank and her husband, the Hon. Ronald F. Frank; Linda Bailey and her husband, David Ciampaglia; and Da vid Bailey and his wife, Melinda Bailey.
Loving Grandmother and Nana to Elizabeth, Anastasia, George IV, Andrew, Steven, Hazen, Rowan, and Solomon.
A funeral Mass and celebration of Peggyʼs life will be held on July 6 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Washington Township. Interment immediately after at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah. Beckerfuneralhome.com.
Duane A. KUIZEMA
Duane A. Kuizema of the Township of Washington, formerly of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2024. Duane is survived by his sons Duane and his wife, Mary, and Douglas and his wife, Halina; his six grandchildren: Kirsten (Brian), Ryan (Nina), Shawn (Laura), Kylie (Jonathan), Nikolas and Mikayla; and five greatgrandchildren: Owen, Ryder, Cash, Brooks and Jaxon.
He is predeceased by his wife, Margaret (2020); his mother, Deane; his father, Arthur, and sister, Marcia.
Duane is U.S. Army veteran and a graduate of Calvin College, Michgian, where he met the love of his life and future bride, Margaret.
His passion for golf and tennis was only exceeded by his frustrated love for the New York Mets.
The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Thursday, June 20 from 10 a.m. to noon with inurnment at Fair Lawn Memorial Park in Fair Lawn.
Memorial contributions can be made in Duaneʼs name to the Old Paramus Reformed Church, 660 East Glen Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07450. Becker-FuneralHome.com.
