PASCACK PRESS 7.28.25 by The Press Group Community Newspapers (New Jersey)

WVAC CHEERS RANKINGS ANDLOOKS AHEAD

As corps closed in on annual carnival, it celebrated impressive figures on hours volunteered, calls answered

BYJOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

As the Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps (WVAC) prepared to host its annual summer fundraising carnival, July 22–26 at Westwood Plaza, the organization was already celebrating 2025ʼs extraordinary service and dedication.

The carnival, a staple of the boroughʼs summer calendar, raises vital funds for the Corps—funds that directly support the emergency medical services WVAC provides at no cost to residents. “Not only is it a fun community event, but every dollar raised goes toward our mission,” Captain Rush Sherman told Pascack Press on July 11.

And that mission is running strong. As of midyear, WVAC has responded to 362 emergency medical calls, including 238 in Westwood and 124 as mutual aid across the Pascack Valley. Behind every call is a team of volunteers committed to professionalism, compassion, and readiness—24/7.

Corps Goes Above, Beyond

WVAC has 47 active riding members, including 28 certified Emergency Medical Technicians, seven Emergency Medical Responders, and 22 certified drivers. Members regularly train, respond, See WVAC on page 7

TENDING THE ISLAND TENDING THE ISLAND

A Westwood engineer cultivates new purpose in the floating gardens of Manhattan

Dave Pallatta, supervisor of horticulture at Little Island, helps shape the lush, elevated landscape, seen above against the backdrop of Downtown Manhattan. From early spring bulbs to fall foliage, he and his team keep the park thriving year-round. Credits : above, Pier55 AdobeStock; inset, Dave Pallatta photo.

BYJOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

FORDECADES, Dave Pallatta followed a familiar script: a stable career, a home in his childhood town, a life well-rooted in the expected. Heʼd built his world well. But during the the pandemic, something shifted. He found himself enjoying the soil—imagining

garden projects while working from home.

“After working as an engineer and project manager for many years, I found myself going through the motions at work and not getting any real satisfaction,” Pallatta told Pascack Press recently. “I kept thinking, ʻHow many more years until I can retire and do

Continued on page 18

OWLS SWOOP

IN

HIGGINS, LCIRELLI, EVINSON HONORED

Rep. Josh Gottheimer lauds doers from Pascack Valley as Hometown Heroes; 21 shine in Fifth District

Among the 21 North Jersey residents recognized as “Hometown Heroes” by U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer on July 18 were three familiar names from the Pascack Valley: Bryan Cirelli of Montvale, Tammy Levinson of Park Ridge, and Josephine Higgins of Woodcliff Lake.

Each was celebrated at the Fifth District Hometown Heroes Ceremony, held Friday at the Hackensack Performing Arts Center, for extraordinary service to their communities in the Legislative Fifth District — from lifesaving generosity to public leadership and tireless advocacy.

The event honored first responders, veterans, volunteers, and local leaders whose everyday efforts help strengthen the fabric of North Jersey life.

“If you tune in to cable or go onto social media, there is far more attention these days on whatʼs going wrong with America, and far too little attention on whatʼs going right. But then, stories crop up here and there of a firefighter rescuing a young girl

See HEROES on page 5

This week we go back to summer 1930, when the people of Hillsdale were as frustrated as they were frightened. Kristin Beuscher, president of Pascack Historial Society in Park Ridge, has the story. PAGE 4

PASCACK VALLEY

S ESSIONONDREDGE REFERENDUM A UG . 5

A special mayor and council meeting is set for Tuesday, Aug. 5 at 7 p.m. at Borough Hall, 53 Park Ave., to finalize t he wording of a non-binding referendum on dredging Mill

Pond for the Nov. 4 ballot.

T he question must be submitted to the Bergen County Clerkʼs Division of Elections b y Aug. 8. Officials say the referendum could offer multiple options and price ranges for the silt-clogged pondʼs restoration. The results will gauge taxpayer support at various funding levels.

The need for dredging has been discussed for years due to the pondʼs deteriorated condition. A recent petition by residents pushed councilors to act. Borough Clerk Maggie Giandomenico said the meeting agenda and resolution will be CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

HILLSDALE

Middle school asbestos abatement OK’d

The Board of Education has awarded a $1,294,000 contract to B&G Restoration, Inc. for asbestos abatement work at George G. White Middle School as part of ongoing facility upgrades for the 2025–2026 school year

The resolution, recommended by the Buildings and Grounds

EMERSON

Committee and approved at the July 2025 board meeting, includes a base bid of $1,084,000 and an additional $210,000 for Alternate #1. The project aims to remove hazardous materials in accordance with state-mandated safety standards.

The board received bids on June 12, with B&Gʼs proposal

deemed responsive and complete. The contract award is contingent on the company providing required documentation, including insurance and performance bonds, within 10 days.

Legal agreements will be prepared by the board attorney, and execution is authorized by the board president and secretary.

Summer concert series hits overdrive

The Borough of Emerson is bringing back its popular “Mayor & Council Presents… Summer Concert Series” each Wednesday from July 9 through Aug. 6, from 7 to 9 p.m. on the front steps of Emerson Borough Hall. In the event of rain, concerts will be held on Thursdays.

The concerts, featuring local and Emerson-based talent, are free and open to the public through the Mayorʼs Wellness Campaign and made possible by the generous support of sponsors Avoʼs Elegant Jewelers, Becker Funeral Home, K9 Resorts of Emerson, Kuiken

The Emerson Project performs July 30 in the “Mayor & Council Presents… Summer Concert Series.”

Brothers, PIA World Insurance, Plaza Auto Repair, Richʼs Automotive Specialists, Unity Bank, and William G. Basralian Funeral Service. “As the Family Town of Bergen County, itʼs great when we can bring folks together to showcase our incredible local talent,” said Mayor Danielle DiPaola.

This seasonʼs remaining concert lineup includes: •July 30 – The Emerson Project •Aug. 6 – Beauty & The Grease Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Pivot turf gets green light; $100K increase

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

B orough Administrator

Michael Ghassali told Pascack Press on July 22 that a decision had been made to move ahead with a new type of artificial turf called Pivot — an approximate $100,000 increase over traditional turf — for the proposed turf fields and surfaces to be installed at Memorial Field.

Officials are eyeing a presentation in late summer or early fall to present final design plans from Colliers Engineering & Design.

The $5.8 million field upgrade was approved by council March 11 in a 4–2 vote, with councilors John Ruocco and Janetta Trochimiuk opposed. Voting in favor were councilors Robert Colletti Jr., Justin Fox, Melissa Mazza-Chiong, and Clemente Osso.

At council's July 8 meeting, officials noted that the no-infill synthetic turf known as Pivot, w as estimated to cost about $100,000 more than traditional crumb rubber-filled artificial turf

Ghassali said that a possible donor for an inclusive, ADAcompliant playground may help to mitigate the extra turf costs.

The Pivot turf has a styrofoam backing and a 12-year warranty, officials noted, versus an eight-year warranty on traditional turf. Ghassali told us that the Pivot turf won the day on being potentially less harmful, as well as less messy.

He previously said that tra-

ditional turf, backed by crumb rubber in-fill, generally can break apart and often gets tracked all over athletes' homes via their shoes, uniforms, and body parts such as ears and noses.

According to the company, Pivot turf reduces plastic shedding by nearly 100% because it uses no infill; it is recyclable, has no detectable levels of PFAS, PAHs, or lead, and meets FIFA, NFL, and NCAA testing standards. It also requires no watering, pesticides, or fertilizers.

Borough engineer Nick Chel ius previously said they had checked out purchasing co-ops that dealt with both types of turf, depending on what was selected. He said he was not aware of any sharp increases in turf prices, but warned that prices do trend up.

It was not clear if President Trumpʼs trade tariffs might impact field improvement prices.

Previously, we reported that on June 17 the Borough Council unanimously approved approximately $5 million in bond financing for upgrades at Memorial Field, including a $500,000 bond down payment. Officials previously said the bond ordinance would not increase local property taxes.

Ghassali said the $5.8 million project will be funded without raising taxes, using $1.2 million from the field reserve account and $4.6 million in bonding.

In mid-March, the council split, 3–3, on whether to include field lighting in the initial bid specs. Fox, Mazza-Chiong, and Trochimiuk voted yes; Colletti, Osso, and Ruocco voted no.

Mayor Michael Sheinfield broke the tie, voting against lighting but in favor of laying underground conduit for possible future installation.

Chelius then estimated the cost of conduit installation for f uture lighting at $50,000 to $100,000. He said bollard lights around the walking path would require conduit and electricity.

Late last year, Chelius presented a concept plan that proposed converting Memorial Field to artificial turf and adding facilities for football, soccer, baseball, softball, basketball, pickleball, a walking path, and a playground.

A rendering of the proposed upgrades was available under a Memorial Field Plan link on the borough's website, alongside the Nov. 13 Colliers Engineering presentation.

The Borough Council on June 17 unanimously approved approximately $5 million in bond financing for upgrades at Memorial Field, including a $500,000 bond down payment, according to Ghassali. Officials said then the bond ordinance would not

increase local property taxes. Ghassali said the $5.1 million total—including $4.6 million in bonds and a $500,000 down payment from Fields Committee funds—brings the borough close to the $5.8 million spending cap the council set earlier this year for Memorial Park improvements.

That cap is expected to be c overed through existing resources, including a $500,000 annual tax allocation created about five years ago to fund field upgrades.

Bckintime... Bckintime...

JCC ofNorthern New Jersey honors 100 years ofcommunity, leadership,and connection

The JCC of Northern New Jerseyʼs generous supporters came together on June 26 to raise more than $300,000 in celebrating a century of community service and honoring the visionary leaders who have shaped its remarkable journey.

This event, held at The Rockleigh, recognized 14 past presidents whose leadership over the past 50 years has helped guide the organizationʼs mission: to foster Jewish identity, strengthen community engagement, and provide meaningful experiences for Jewish families across Northern New Jersey. Each honoree received the Eisen z"l & Rukin Leadership Award in recognition of their dedication.

The celebration brought together community leaders, changemakers, and supporters from Bergen to Rockland and beyond — with a strong contingent from Woodcliff Lake and the wider Pascack Valley. Guests enjoyed reflections on the JCCʼs rich history and lasting impact, inspiring updates on current programs like Mini Mensches and Active Seniors, and a look ahead to a vibrant future.

Paula Cantor, one of the past presidents and honorees, reflected: “A community isnʼt defined by walls, but by the people who come together to uphold it.: Erica Danziger, director of programs and outreach, added “J on the Go is about so much more than programming. Itʼs about creating opportunities for families who seek connection, meaningful ways to bring Jewish

See JCC page 30

The Man Outside the Window

Hillsdale’s 1930 scare

HISWEEK we go back to summer 1930, when the people of Hillsdale were as frustrated as they were frightened. For six weeks the borough was plagued by a Peeping Tom, an elusive drifter whose demented acts escalated from peering in windows to attacking children. As quickly as the man would appear, he would slink away into the darkness. All summer long he evaded local law enforcement and left the citizens of Hillsdale afraid to open their windows. This is the story as it unfolded 95 years ago.

Police might have thought it was a simple misunderstanding when the first report came in during June from a resident in the Hillsdale Manor section. A caller said that an unknown man was in his yard. When the intruder was spotted, he ran across the street and the homeowner distinctly saw him silhouetted against the headlights of an approaching automobile before he ran into the shadows.

A second call came in from one of Hillsdale's most well-known citizens. Seventy-year-old Mrs. Helen Riley lived in a beautiful Victorian mansion named Brookside Pines at the corner of Hillsdale Avenue and

By Kristin Beuscher, president of the Pascack Historical Society, Park Ridge Call (201) 573-0307 or visit PascackHistoricalSociety.org

Patterson Street. At around 2:30 a.m., she heard a person on top of the porch roof, outside a second floor window.

The next evening at about midnight, Alton Kinmonth of Central Avenue heard someone moving through the bushes beneath an open window of his home.

In the weeks that followed, reports steadily flowed in through the phone line in the police booth. Confining his crimes to the central and northeastern parts of Hillsdale, the prowler was targeting houses that had a room with the lights on, the shade up, and usually a woman alone inside. Police determined that they had a thrill-seeking Peeping Tom on their hands.

On Sunday, June 22, a young woman sitting on the back porch of the Lorentz

home on Conklin Avenue heard footsteps. She looked up to see the figure of a man stepping through the bushes in the backyard. He tiptoed to the side of the house and peered through the windows before disappearing.

Even the home of a police officer was targeted. Mrs. John Wolfangle, the wife of a Hillsdale patrolman, was alarmed by the rustling of a person outside her window as she was reading. She quickly closed the window and pulled down the shade, and then woke her husband, who was asleep upstairs. As on the previous occasions, the prowler had disappeared.

By the middle of July, at least a dozen residents of Hillsdale reported visits from the Peeping Tom. The prowler always seemed to slip into the shadows and fade away like a phantom before police could find him. Having eluded capture for weeks, the encounters became more brazen.

Over on Conklin Avenue, Mrs. Harry Pause was busy in her kitchen shortly before 10 o'clock when she was startled by two loud raps on the windowpane. Thinking it must be a neighbor, she went to the window and

See SCARE on page 9

Downtown Hillsdale circa 1930. The police phone line went to the booth shown, which then stood in the center of Hillsdale Avenue near Broadway. Later the booth was moved to the side of the road, adjacent to the park, where it can be seen today. Also visible: on the far left, Hillsdale's first traffic light, installed in 1927; the World War I monument; and the railroad station.

SPECIALTO PASCACK PRESS

Honored:

from a burning building, or a high school athlete reassuring kids just like him that not even cancer can stop your dreams,” said Gottheimer in a release shared with Pascack Press on July 18.

“You realize that we just donʼt spend enough time showcasing all of the good that happens every day — not enough time recognizing what it means to be a great citizen in the greatest country in the world,” he said.

Of Montvaleʼs Bryan Cirelli, Gottheimer said he bravely served our country as a paratrooper for 4 1/2 years in the U.S. Army, receiving the Army Commendation Medal for courageously helping local police in North Carolina arrest a criminal suspected of robbery and assaulting a

police officer.

Bryan also donated a kidney without hesitation to his lifelong friend and fellow Montvale native, retired borough police officer Lt. Jason Szabo, even though it put him out of work for two months without pay while he recovered.

Of Park Ridgeʼs Tammy Levinson , Gottheimer said,

“Tammy has been a tireless advocate for substance abuse prevention as the director of the Municipal Alliance for the Borough of Park Ridge. Through the Municipal Alliance, Tammy helps raise awareness about the dangers of alcoholism and drug abuse in our communities — bringing together local residents, organizations, and officials to build healthier neighborhoods through compassion and action.”

And he said, “For more than 11 years, Tammy has worked to help get the backs of veterans as a dedicated member of Unit 153 of the American Legion Auxiliary —

honoring our veterans and their sacrifices.”

Of Josephine Higgins of Woodcliff Lake, Gottheimer said, “Josephine served as the first and only female Mayor in Woodcliff Lakeʼs history, working hard to support local families and small

businesses as mayor for two consecutive four-year terms, while also serving on the County Committee. When her term ended, she returned to work on the council to remain involved in her town and help families until she retired just a year ago — starting the senior center in Woodcliff Lake.” Gottheimer noted that “Josephine is

also the longest-standing volunteer at the Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps, working diligently as a nurse to support patients and provide critical, lifesaving care for those in medical emergencies.”

Among recipients from further afield in the district, Got-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

Rep. Josh Gottheimer congratulates the Pascack Valley’s newest Fifth District Hometown Heroes, July 18, in a packed ceremony at at the Hackensack Performing Arts Center. In the spotlight in photos left to right:Montvale’s Bryan Cirelli, Park Ridge’s Tammy Levinson, and Woodcliff Lake’s Josephine Higgins.

Photos courtesy Peter Figueroa

Too busy in Tennessee? Recall push on for trustee

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

A group of residents working to recall Board of Education trustee Robert Fisher Jr. says it has collected slightly over 1,000 signatures as of July 21—just over halfway to the roughly 1,900 required to trigger a public question on the Nov. 4 ballot.

The group alleges that Fisher, the youngest trustee ever elected to the board no longer resides in the district full-time and has failed to adequately represent residents—claims Fisher flatly denies.

The 19-year-old trustee, elected in 2023 while still a senior at Park Ridge High School, left after graduation to attend Vanderbilt, the private research university in Nashville, Tenn. He returns to Park Ridge during school breaks.

His LinkedIn bio identifies him as “Rob… a sophomore at Vanderbilt University majoring in

legal history, psychology, and Germanistics. My work as a research assistant in the Schaefer & Schlundt campus laboratories focuses on spanning the divides between mental health and justice.”

He adds, “As a Trustee of the Park Ridge Board of Education (elected to public office at 18) and a crisis counselor at Crisis Text Line, I am passionate about serving my community and helping people in need.”

He expresses an interest in “promoting access to psychological interventions in the prison system,” and recently posted that he was accepted into Vanderbilt Universityʼs honors program in the Department of Psychology.

Kelly Epstein, a former borough councilwoman and twodecade resident, told Pascack Press that the recall group— formed by residents Laura Clark, Mary McNamara, and Rebecca Anastos—is organizing “drive-by

signings” and circulating petitions in neighborhoods and outside local businesses. Epstein, a parent, said she is among roughly two dozen volunteers helping gather signatures ahead of the early August filing deadline.

Fisher and two other candidates ran unopposed in November 2023 for three open board seats.

In a statement emailed to Pascack Press, Fisher denounced the recall effort as politically motivated and rooted in misinformation.

“It is unfortunate that a group of agitators decided to spend their summer harassing their neighbors, threatening mothers trying to sign their daughters up for the local Girl Scout troops, and lying about me in a futile attempt to force a recall,” Fisher wrote. “This radical recall committee has resorted to making baseless accusations, blaming me for problems they created, and trying to instill a culture of fear in our tight-knit town.”

Flyers distributed by the group, and a petition circulating on social media, read “Recall Fisher... When Public Officials Fail, We All Pay.” The literature claims Fisher “refuses to do the

Park Ridge Board of Education trustee Robert

was elected to his post at 18. On graduation from PRHS he left for college in Nashville — and as a sophomore faces a recall push from critics who claim he “refuses to do the job,” which he flatly denies. Photo via Robert

job,” doesnʼt serve on committees, and fails to show up for the town. It also alleges that he lives and works in Nashville and maintains only an “appearance of residency” by renting a Park Ridge basement apartment for $10 a month.

Fisher confirmed that he rents an apartment in Park Ridge and said it is legally registered with the municipality. He called claims about his residency and rent “false,” and said the board has taken no disciplinary action regarding his attendance.

“I reside in the town and live here during my breaks from school,” he said. “New Jersey law and precedent protect the right of college students to vote in the town where they have their permanent home, and I have every intention of permanently returning to our borough once I graduate.”

He added, “Iʼve spent thousands [of dollars] and travelled tens of thousands of miles because our community deserves higher-

performing schools, lower taxes, and a school board that works for Park Ridgers, not special interests.”

The recall group contends Fisher missed nearly a third of BOE meetings in 2025, including the budget hearing, which drew hundreds of residents.

Fisher acknowledged occasional absences, citing illness and legitimate conflicts, but said the board has no current policy to allow members to attend remotely—a change he has advocated.

“The recall committee manufactured the problem they are complaining about,” he said, adding, “Why is my attendance record a reason for recall when other trustees have missed more meetings? Is the committee also collecting signatures to recall them?”

As for the complaint that he

Park Ridge Board of Education trustee Robert Fisher Jr., via his LinkedIn

Fisher Jr.

Fisher Jr.’s LinkedIn.

WVAC:

“Every

The

the first six months of 2025:

Top 10 by Hours Volunteered

and elevate our standard of care.”

A Constant Presence in Westwood

WVACʼs work extends beyond emergency response. So far this year, the Corps has provided EMS standby coverage at Earth Day in the Park, Arts in the Park, the Easter egg hunt, and local school graduations

Theyʼve also sponsored two blood drives, participated in Read Across America and Community Helpers Day, and certified summer camp staff and a local Girl

Scout troop in CPR and First Aid. “Equipping others with lifesaving skills is one of the most meaningful ways we can serve,” Sherman said.

Join the Mission WVAC invites residents to be part of the story. “If youʼre looking for a way to give back, learn something new, or be part of something bigger, visit westwoodvolunteerems.org,” Sherman said. “No experience is necessary. All training is provided.”

Petruccelli – 310

Bob Stamatopoulos – 262

Nicole Heid – 257.75

Fighting Owls sky-high: Ramsey Rumble champs

The Park Ridge Fighting Owls continued their impressive 2 025 season by capturing the 3rd/4th grade division title at the Ramsey Rumble, a 14-team girls softball tournament held Sunday, July 13, at Finch Field.

The Owls entered elimination day as the No. 4 seed following a win and a tie on ranking day.

In their first game Sunday, the Owls blanked the Emerson Cavos, 7–0, behind a six-inning, two-hit gem from pitchers Emily Briscoe and Liana Spadaccini.

Next, the Owls took down t he top-seeded Ridgewood Raiders. Briscoe was again dominant, with Sadie Aday stepping up to pitch two clutch innings when it mattered most.

In the championship game, the Owls powered past the Fair Lawn Cutters with an offensive surge from top to bottom. Briscoe allowed her first run of the tournament—but Park Ridge pulled away to win by 10 runs. Every Owl reached base at least once.

The story of the tournament was the Owlsʼrelentless offense.

The championship roster: C arly Berube, Sydney Lugo, Emily Briscoe, Aria Reilly, Liana Spadaccini, Hailey Gammarati, Sadie Aday, Lila Waters, Olivia Ribando, Lily Casella, Vivienne Olori, Ellie OʼConnell, and Melanie Briscoe.

Coaches are Curt Briscoe, Jennifer Briscoe, Ralph Lugo, Mike Gammarati, Greg Waters, Tim OʼConnell, and Maria

The Right Choice...

Spadaccini.

The Owls over the weekend of June 27–29 won the 10U division of the Wyckoff Girls of Summer Tournament. They battled a competitive field to earn the top spot, showcasing strong teamwork, solid defense, and timely hitting throughout the weekend.

The Owls tell Pascack Press they want this summer to never end.

It was Owls all the way at the Ramsey Rumble on July 13 at Finch Field! Team photo.

FROM PAGE 4

raised the shade fully, illuminating the garden outside. She saw the figure of a man slink past an apple tree and move through the bushes. The situation continued to escalate and the perpetrator began to target children. On July 13, Nettie Gilbert of Washington Avenue

reported to police that a strange man had followed her 12-year-old daughter while she was walking home. Days later, the man threatened a boy at the corner of Washington and Magnolia avenues, shook another boy at Conklin and Magnolia while shouting profane language at him, and then attacked a third near the Pascack Brook. The boys described him as a tall individual, middle-aged, with

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

The Hillsdale Police Department in 1934: Chief William Bulach and patrolmen Julius Breissbarth, Frank Stoeckel, and Henry Koelsch. The street behind them is Central Avenue. While the outskirts of Hillsdale were still rural in the 1930s, the streets surrounding the downtown area were lined with residences.

A view in Hillsdale in the 1930s. This angle looks west on Hillsdale Avenue (toward the downtown) from Magnolia Avenue. The Methodist church in its original location is on the far left. That site is now a parking lot. The area on the right is now a baseball field.

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Shedding light on a bold, cherished Gruppe painting

BYJONFELZ R.Z.M. FINE ARTS & ANTIQUES INC.

Hi, Jon, I recently inherited this p ainting from my late fatherin-lawʼs estate. I am unable to find an artistʼs name on it. My father-in-law liked this painting quite a bit, and so do I. Years ago, he mentioned the artistʼs name to me, but I can no longer remember it. Iʼm fairly certain he said he had met the artist at the time he purchased the painting.

Please inform me as to who the artist is and the painting's value. I would like to get this painting insured, but I canʼt do that until I have all this information. The painting measures 28 inches by 24 inches.

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

Dear Reader, Youʼre right, those small bits of information, especially from the original owner, are often irreplaceable once lost.

Fortunately, in this case, I can tell you exactly what you have: the work of Emile Albert Gruppe (1896–1978), a favorite of mine and one of the most beloved American Impressionist and PostImpressionist painters of the 20th century. While you mentioned not seeing a signature, I can assure you itʼs there. Gruppe often signed his works in the lower corner, and

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Emile Albert Gruppe settled in the famed artist enclave of Rocky Neck in Gloucester, Mass., where he became known for his dynamic seascapes and New England landscapes.

in some cases the frame partially or fully covers it. If youʼre comfortable doing so, carefully removing the frame should reveal his name.

Gruppe was born in Rochester, N.Y., and spent his early years in the Netherlands, where his father—also a notable painter, Charles Gruppe—worked with the Hague School. Emile

later settled in the famed artist enclave of Rocky Neck in Gloucester, Mass., where he became known for his dynamic seascapes and New England landscapes. From 1940 to 1970, he ran the Gloucester School of Painting and eventually began painting Floridaʼs tropical scenes during winter stays in Naples. His style is unmistakable:

expressive brushwork, bold use of color, and a confident handling of light that owes much to the French Impressionists he admired. Gruppe also authored several well-regarded books on painting technique, making him a teacher and inspiration to generations of artists.

Gruppeʼs work is well represented in museums and private collections nationwide. As a fellow member of New York Cityʼs Salmagundi Club—where Gruppe won many awards—I can tell you that his legacy is both cherished and enduring. Regarding value: The market for Emile Gruppe paintings has grown steadily, with particularly strong results over the past decade. Based on the size of your canvas (28 x 24 inches), the subject matter, and todayʼs demand, your painting holds a fair market value of $8,000.

I urge you to insure it accordingly and, as you noted, to keep this documentation with the painting. Let it become part of the story—one that, clearly, already includes fond memories of your father-in-law.

R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. is based at 132 Dexter Ave., Pearl River,N.Y.Call (845) 7351313 or visit rzmantiques.com.

Artist

GRACE’S 8TH ANNUAL HOLIDAYIN JULY

TOY DRIVE

Graceʼs Gold Ribbon Gang is holding its 8th Annual Holiday in July Toy Drive, benefiting Columbia Presbyterianʼs Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Transplantation Unit, which treats children and young adults from newborn through age 22. Donations of new toys, games, and gift cards are requested to brighten their days during treatment.

Donors can drop off toys at the Township of Washington Library, or shop directly from the Amazon gift registry (QR code below), which ships gifts directly to the hospital. Suggested items include Legos, board games, dolls, art supplies, headphones, sports gear, and age-appropriate toys for all ages.

Gift cards to iTunes, Roblox, McDonaldʼs, gaming platforms, and Starbucks are also welcome.

Monetary donations are being collected to complete a second book cart that will be donated to Joseph M. Sanzari Childrenʼs

Hospital at Hackensack.

To donate, visit ForTheLoveOfGrace.org or search Jennifer Skuches under Gift Lists on Amazon.

Last year, Graceʼs Gold Ribbon Gang donated over $2,500 in snacks and meals to families at Columbia Presbyterian. This yearʼs drive, Jennifer tells Pascack Press, is another opportunity to share kindness and hope.

For more information email jenniferskuches@me.com.

•July 28 at 7 p.m. Teen Bingo. Please register.

• July 30 at 4 p.m. Babysitting Class. Please register. For teens.

• July 31 at 6:30 p.m. Decoupage Glass Plates. Hillsdale cardholders prioritized.

• Aug. 1 at 1 p.m. Fitness Fun with Lois. Drop in.

•Aug. 2 at 11 a.m. Learn to Draw – 3-Week Series. Registra-

tion required. For adults.

•Aug. 2 at 2 p.m. KoverUp and Classic Rock Band. Registration not required.

•Aug. 4 at 7 p.m. Canvas Painting Class. Valid Hillsdale cardholders only. For adults.

•Aug. 5 at 7 p.m. Bedazzling Book for Teens. Please register –space is limited.

•Aug. 11 at 7 p.m. Acoustic with Dan and Joe. Registration not

required.

• Aug. 15 at 2 p.m. Friday Movie Matinee: Staff Pick! The Shawshank Redemption. Registration not required.

•Thursdays at 11 a.m. Chair Yoga. (No class July 24.) Registration required for each session.

For more information visit hfpl.org or email Michele.Kilmurrayathfpl.org

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

GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY

and

ICHAELAND KATHY DRAKE, 47-year residents of Westwood, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at a surprise party hosted by their three children: Kristie, Rebecca and Michael.

Friends and family gathered in June to mark the occasion, traveling from near and far to celebrate with the couple, wed on a lovely July 19.

The Drakes are pictured above at the party with their four granddaughters: Ava, Lyla, Delaney, and Summer.

Family submission

WESTWOODFESTRETURNS SEPT. 13 — GETINONITNOW

Planning is underway for the fourth annual WestwoodFest, the boroughʼs popular end-of-summer celebration of community spirit, music, food, and fun.

Set for Saturday, Sept. 13, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, the free event is co-hosted by Celebrate Westwood and the Borough of Westwood.

WestwoodFest is a familyfriendly afternoon featuring live music, games, inflatable attractions, hands-on art activities, and opportunities to connect with local businesses, nonprofits, and com-

Trustee:

FROM PAGE 12

“wonʼt serve on committees,” Fisher said he served as chair of the Community Relations Committee and held an affordabilityfocused meeting that was boycotted by most trustees.

After the board voted to ban public access to committee meetings, he said, he refused to participate in what he described as “decision-making in the dark,” pending restoration of transparency.

Flyers also accuse Fisher of being backed by “a nationalist extremist group.” Fisher strongly

munity groups. Organizers invite Westwood-based nonprofits and businesses to register to host an information table or activity. In addition, licensed Westwood food vendors are welcome to apply to serve as on-site concessionaires.

denied the charge.

“I have never taken a penny of funding from political action committees, let alone ʻnationalist organizations,ʼ” he wrote. “My work relies on small donations from locals who know that lowering taxes for our working families, seniors, and veterans... will supercharge our economy and property values.”

He said, “Why has the recall committee unethically used lists of union members to push its phony effort? Is this projection?”

Fisher maintains that graduated from PRHS, continues to live in Park Ridge, and is committed to the town.

He said he flies home to

Over the past three years, the event has steadily grown in popularity, attracting several hundred attendees who gather to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with neighbors and friends. Organizers say this yearʼs edition promises to be the most festive yet.

You can register as a vendor, business, nonprofit, sponsor, or volunteer via celebratewestwood.org/westwoodfest.

For more information, email the ever helpful Lauren Letizia and RoseAnn Ciarlante at celebratewestwood@gmail.com.

attend meetings in person— despite the board rejecting proposals that would allow virtual attendance under certain circumstances.

He alleges that members of the recall committee have disrupted BOE meetings.

The recall group can be reached at parkridgerecall@ outlook.com.

Separately, Mayor Keith Misciagna has formed two groups—a special mayorʼs committee and a citizens advisory committee—to finalize language for a non-binding referendum on dredging Mill Pond. The question is expected to be placed on the same Nov. 4 ballot. (For more, see our related story on Page 2.)

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WESTWOOD

Michael and Kathy Drake with granddaughters Ava, Lyla, Delaney,

Summer.

Registration open for rec’s August specialty camps

The Westwood Recreation Department is offering a series of week-long specialty camps this August for children entering grades K–8, with programs in tennis, golf, multi-sport, art, and LEGO-based engineering.

Online registration is open at register.communitypass.net/westwood (select Summer 2025 from the menu). Printed guides and paper forms are available at the Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave.

Camp schedules and details

TGA Tennis & Golf Camps (Grades K–8): Aug. 4–7 or Aug. 11–14, Westwood High School.

•Tennis: 9–11:45 a.m. ($220)

• Golf: 12:15–3 p.m. ($220)

•Full Day (includes supervised lunch): $325

T GA coaches provide all equipment and teach both sports in a fun, non-intimidating environment. Campers may register for one or both sessions.

USSI Multi-Sports Camp (Grades K–6): Aug. 4–8 or Aug. 11–15, Brookside Park (rain site: Community Center), 9 a.m.–noon.

•Fee: $210

•Celebrating its 18th year, this popular camp introduces kids to 15 different sports in one week.

A rt Camp ( Grades 2–5): Aug. 4–8, 12:30–3 p.m.

•Fee: $180 Led by artist Britt Sikiric,

students explore drawing, painting, collage, and clay. Daily sessions include discussion of art styles, group projects, and mindfulness breaks. A gallery show will be held Friday for family and friends.

LEGO Camp– Poké mon Engineering (Grades K–5): Aug. 4–8, 9 a.m.–noon.

•Fee: $170

C ampers join Play-Well instructors on a themed LEGO adventure: building Pok é mon, battling Team Rocket, and earning the title of Pokémon Master— no prior experience required.

Questions may be directed to Recreation Director Gary Buchh eister at (201) 664-7882 or recreation@westwoodnj.gov.

Troop 350 taking orders on lawn flags

Westwood Scout Troop 350 invites the community to take part in its 2025 “Stars and Stripes” fundraiser, a program that allows residents to proudly display the American flag throughout the year in honor of national holidays.

Troop 350 will place a 12” x 18” poly-cotton American stick flag curbside in participating front yards on patriotic holidays: Labor Day – Monday, Sept. 1; Patriot Day – Thursday, Sept. 11; and Veterans Day – Tuesday, Nov. 11.

The cost is $25 per year for one flag per holiday or $50 per year for two flags per holiday. This offer is available only to residents of Westwood and Washington Township. Email WestwoodTroop350@gmail.com with name, address, and phone number. Venmo, PayPal, checks.

Scare:

FROM PAGE 9

stooped shoulders, a mustache, and wearing a slouched hat. Police believed the man might have been sleeping in an abandoned house on Piermont Avenue, but they never caught him there. A woman who lived across the street from the vacant home said one night she was walking past and heard the sound of a cat crying from inside. She looked through a window and saw the figure of a man lying on one of the beds that had been left behind by

the last tenant. Police investigated the house and found that all the doors were unlocked and there were signs that someone had recently been there.

On Friday evening, July 25, Police Lt. William F. Bulach, Patrolman Frank Stoeckel, a newspaper reporter, and other citizens rushed to the home of John Humbert on Wilts Avenue. A man had been looking through the window and knocking on the door while two daughters were home alone.

Mr. and Mrs. Humbert were out for a drive when their daughters, through an open window, heard footsteps outside in the driveway. (At this point readers

might be questioning why anyone would still have their windows open while a seemingly deranged prowler was at large. This writer can only surmise that it had to do with the July heat in an era before homes had air conditioning.) The sound of the footsteps suddenly went quiet, and then there was a knock at the door. Fourteen-yearold Doris, the older daughter, looked out the window and saw a man standing outside in the darkness, peering through the window at her.

The following night, Lt. Bulach was on patrol in the section of Hillsdale most visited by the perpetrator. Finding the streets quiet, he returned to the police

booth, only to receive a phone call immediately upon entering. It was from the neighborhood he had just left.

Mrs. William Conley of Piermont Avenue was alone on the lower floor of her home while her husband was putting their baby to bed upstairs. There was a knock on the door, followed by a man peering through the window. The man murmured something and then fled. The family dog started growling and Mr. Conley rushed downstairs as his wife screamed.

He released the dog into the yard, and the animal took off running northeast from the house, through a vacant field and toward Hillsdale Manor, as through it were chasing someone.

Maybe that last episode was enough to convince the perpetrator to move to a different area, because the reports stopped there. After a while, the people of Hillsdale were once again able to open their windows without fear.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Hermitage Outdoor Art & Craft Show Aug. 9

Mark your calendars! The annual Hermitage Outdoor Art & Craft Show returns on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the picturesque, tree-shaded front lawn of the Hermitage Museum, located at 355 Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus (next to Ridgewood).

T his beloved event, sponsored by the Friends of the Hermitage and promoted by P.J.ʼs

Promotions, features 70 talented exhibitors offering an unforgettable shopping experience.

Visitors will discover a vibrant and diverse selection of handmade goods, including:

•Fine art and watercolors

• Pottery and ceramics

•Jewelry and fiber art

•Stained glass and turned wood

•Resin and mandala art

•Pressed flower designs

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•Candles, soaps, bonsai, folk art

•Apparel, crochet animals, florals, charcuterie boards

•Local train station prints, flag signs, and whimsical chainsaw animals

And thatʼs just the beginning!

Foodies rejoice: enjoy breakfast bites, desserts, and a variety of festival favorites from on-site vendors and a food truck.

Admission is $5 and includes a tour of the historic Hermitage Museum. The show is held rain or shine.

For more information, visit www.pjspromotions.com or call (201) 410-5416.

The annual Hermitage Outdoor Art & Craft Show returns on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the picturesque, tree-shaded front lawn of the Hermitage Museum

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Bergen County has announced the return of its popular Movies and Music in the Park summer series, presented by County Executive James J. Tedesco III, the Bergen County Board of Commissioners, and the County Parks Department. Beginning Tuesday, July 8, the series will feature 25 free events across four county parks, offering live music and family-friendly movies in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

“Thereʼs nothing like summer in Bergen County, and our Movies and Music in the Park series is one of the best ways to enjoy it,” said Tedesco. “With a fantastic lineup of concerts and movies across four beautiful parks, thereʼs truly something for everyone. Bring a blanket, bring the family, and come make some great summer memories with us.”

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for comfort. All events are free and open to the public.

Six of this summerʼs concerts will take place at The Stage at Riverside County Park–South in North Arlington, through a partnership with the borough. This scenic riverside venue provides a perfect backdrop for evenings of live entertainment.

“Thereʼs nothing better than bringing our community together on a summer night to enjoy great music and movies in our beautiful county parks,” said Commissioner Tom Sullivan. “These events are where families create fun summer memories that last a lifetime. Weʼre proud to keep this tradition going strong.”

Movie Schedule

All movies begin at sunset, approximately 8:30 p.m.

Pascack Brook County Park –150 Emerson Road, Westwood

• Wednesday, July 30 – Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (PG-13)

Van Saun County Park – 216 Forest Ave., Paramus

• Friday, July 25 – Moana 2 (PG)

• Friday, Aug. 1 – Inside Out 2 (PG)

• Wednesday, Aug. 6 – Captain America: Brave New World (PG13)

• Friday, Aug. 8 – The Wild Robot (PG)

• Wednesday, Aug. 13 – Twisters (PG-13)

• Friday, Aug. 15 – Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (PG)

• Wednesday, Aug. 20 –Wicked (PG-13)

• Friday, Aug. 22 – Mufasa: The Lion King (PG)

Concert Schedule

All concerts begin at 7 p.m. The Amphitheater at Overpeck

County Park – 199 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park

• Thursday, July 24 – David Cedeñ o (Latin Orchestra, Salsa, Jazz)

• Thursday, July 31 – ARENA

Relive the Rock (ʼ80s Rock Classics)

• Thursday, Aug. 7 – Bon Journey (Bon Jovi & Journey Tribute)

The Stage at Riverside County Park–South – 453 River Road, North Arlington

• Tuesday, July 22 – Almost Eras: The Taylor Swift Experience

• Tuesday, July 29 – Big Hix (Modern Country Music)

• Tuesday, Aug. 12 – Los 9 Del Sabor (Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, Bachata)

• Tuesday, Aug. 19 – Steppinʼ Out (Soul, R&B, Rock Classics)

All events are weather permitting. For updates, visit BergenCountyNJ.gov or follow the Bergen County Parks System on Facebook and Instagram.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Pallatta:

FROM PAGE 1

the things Iʼm passionate about?ʼ”

Working from home, Pallatta found his mind wandering—not toward spreadsheets or meetings, but toward the garden just at hand.

“I spent most of the time looking out the window thinking about projects I could do in my yard,” he said. “I always enjoyed horticulture and landscape design and had worked in this field after high school and during college.”

T hen he discovered the School of Professional Horticulture (SOPH) at the New York B otanical Garden (NYBG)—a rigorous two-year program that accepts only about 10 students a year. Thatʼs when the shift began in earnest.

“What really decided it for me was realizing how excited I got every time I thought about the program, compared to how uninspired I was in my day job,” Pallatta said.

But the program required 500 hours of hands-on green industry experience before he could even apply. So, he made a choice.

“Once I made the decision to go for it, I quit my desk job and a few weeks later started work for a local landscape design contractor in Ridgewood. I loved the work and being outside, but it took a little time to get into shape and get used to the physical grind. Also it was tough working on 95-degree days in August!”

Among those Pallatta turned to for support were his longtime neighbors, Richard and Elaine Frant, active members of NYBG, whom Pallatta had gotten to know better during the pandemic. Most of their Sixth Avenue neighbors came out to talk, and get to know each other better then.

Frant said, “Early in 2020, the situation became very real when Dave told us his father passed from COVID and they couldnʼt really go and see him, and the funeral was difficult to arrange.”

He said, “My wife had talked to Dave about gardening for

Westwood’s Dave Pallatta at his 2024 internship at Wave Hill, a public garden in the Riverdale section of the Bronx, overlooking the Hudson River.

y ears—sheʼs very into it; Iʼm not,” Richard told us. “But we were both shocked when he told us he decided to start working for a high-end landscaping company. I was shocked that he left an office job to work essentially as a gardener.”

He said, “Then he approached us about writing him a reference for NYBG. He knew we were longtime members. And he explained what he really wanted to do, but he needed first to have some horticulture-type job experience.”

The Frants agreed without hesitation.

“My wife and I were impressed with his decision to make such a major life change at his age with a daughter still in middle school—the oldest had moved out,” Richard said. “I thought often of doing something other than being a CFO, but never had the guts to take the type of change Dave did.”

He added, “After I retired 10 years ago, I just casually took up

photography, and it grew from a hobby to a passion. But I donʼt need to pay my mortgage (if I had one) with photography. So it was a much riskier change for Dave.”

After his 500 hours were completed, Pallatta submitted his application to NYBG in August 2022. He was accepted that October and began the program in January 2023.

“The SOPH program is a two-year, intensive program at NYBG,” Pallatta explained. “Itʼs a five-day-per-week program, and you really do eat/sleep/breathe horticulture for the entire time.

The capstone is a final plant ID exam where we are taken into the field to identify several hundred plants (from a list of 1,000) by their botanical names—genus, specific epithet, family, and common name—from memory ”

Among his most formative experiences was his six-month internship at Wave Hill, a 28-acre public garden in the Bronx.

“I hadnʼt thought much about working in public gardening until I started my internship at Wave Hill,” he said. “This garden is so close, but I had never heard of it

until I got into the program.” Interns at Wave Hill rotate through each area of the garden a nd take part in hands-on restoration projects.

“We interns—there were five of us—also did projects like helping to restore the Elliptical Garden (built over an old swimming pool) and helping to rebuild the trails and handrails in the woodland,” Pallatta said.

“People really loved to come to the gardens, and they were so complimentary and thankful to the gardeners for taking care of it all. Itʼs a nice feeling to have someone compliment your work every day!”

The internship confirmed his desire to work in a public space. “My six months at WH made me realize I wanted to work at a public garden once I graduated from the program, even if it was only for a year or two.”

That opportunity came at Little Island, the whimsical park at Pier 55 on the Hudson River, supported by the Diller–von Furstenberg Family Foundation and designed by Heatherwick Studio and MNLA.

“I met the horticulture director of Little Island during a tour our class took in our first summer, and later he came to NYBG with the landscape architect who designed the park and gave a lecture,” Pallatta said. “So when I saw a position open up a few months prior to my graduation, I reached out to him.”

He was hired in February 2025 as horticulture supervisor.

“I lead a team of seasonal gardeners who maintain all the green spaces on Little Island,” he said. “We face some unique challenges also, like trying to get up and down the narrow paths with equipment when it is crowded with tourists (who often stomp on the plants!) or working around the production teams who are putting up the lighting and sound systems for

Richard Frant photo.

Little Island: “Plan your visit and make the most of your time in the park.” littleisland.org.

CURATED BY JOHN SNYDER pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

PASCACK PRESS proudly celebrates the ranging accomplishments of our local alumni—young men and women who’ve graduated from area high schools and gone on to meet new challenges with purpose and heart. We also recognize the families, teachers, coaches, and mentors who helped guide them on their journey. Through these updates, we honor not just individual achievement, but also the community that helps shape thoughtful, resilient, and compassionate citizens of the world.

GHAVAMI, BAPTISTE MAKE DEAN’S LIST AT BATES COLLEGE

Congratultions to Camillia Ghavami of Hillsdale and Drew Jean Baptiste of Montvale, both of whom are named to the deanʼs list at Bates College for the winter semester ending in April 2025. This is a distinction earned by students whose grade point average is 3.92 or higher. In Lewiston, Maine, Bates is internationally recognized as a leading liberal arts college.

SALVE REGINA UNIVERSITY

DEAN’S LIST FOR SPRING 2025

The following students were named to the Deanʼs List during the spring 2025 academic semester at Salve Regina University: Luke Burns and Kelly McKenna of Westwood, Julia Chiola and Dylan Hutchinson of Hillsdale, Emma Krumrei and Chloe Wozny of the Township of Washington, and Victoria Zervoudis of River Vale. Salve Regina University is a Catholic, coeducational institution of higher education founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1947.

KIERNAN NAMED TO SIENA COLLEGE PRESIDENT’S LIST

Congratulations and job well done go to Kristen Kiernan of Westwood: She was named to the Siena College Presidentʼs List for the spring 2025 semester The Presidentʼs List requires a 3.9 grade point average or higher Kiernan also earned Presidentʼs List honors in Fall 2024 and participated in Sienaʼs study abroad program in Denmark during the spring 2024 semester.

CRAFFEY, DIMEGLIO MAKE

SIENA COLLEGE DEAN’S LIST

Siena College recently named

Before

two local smarties to the Deanʼs List for spring 2025: Theresa Craffey of Park Ridge and Gianna DiMeglio of Westwood. To be named to the Deanʼs List, a studentʼs grade point average for the semester must be 3.5–3.89.

BOTTINI OF WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP EARNS BACHELOR’S DEGREE FROM NAZARETH UNIVERSITY

Congratulations and good luck to Kelly Bottini of the Township of Washington, who graduated cum laude from Nazareth University with a bachelor of science degree in dance studies with minors in theatre design and technology during the 98th commencement ceremony on campus at the Golisano Training Center on Saturday, May 17.

DE MAGISTRIS OF EMERSON NAMED TO MAC ACADEMIC HONOR ROLL

Noelle De Magistris of Emerson was named to the MAC Academic Honor Roll — she earned a 4.0 GPA while studying criminal justice as a member of the Alvernia University Womenʼs Ice Hockey team. De Magistris is one of 233 winter and spring student athletes who were named to the MAC Academic Honor Roll.

MUHLENBERG COLLEGE STUDENTS ON DEAN’S LIST

To be eligible for the Deanʼs List, Muhlenberg College students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or better while taking three or more course units during a semester These kids made it look easy: • A graduate of Emerson Jr.–Sr. High School, Steven Belloise of Emerson has been named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List while studying theatre at Muhlen-

BALLARD, BRATCHER MAKE DEAN’S LIST AT DICKINSON

Dickinson College has announced the following residents were named to the deanʼs list for spring 2025: Iris Vivien Susan Marie Ballard, senior, environmental science and biology, Westwood Regional High School, daughter of Adam Ballard of Hillsdale and Daria Galbo of Westwood; and Caitlyn Ashley Bratcher, junior, political science, Park Ridge High School, daughter of Daniel Bratcher of Park Ridge.

FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY GRADUATES SEVERAL FROM THE PASCACK VALLEY

• Park Ridge: Ryan Amorese, civil engineering; Patrick Burns, finance; Victoria Daguanno, public health; Anna Francica, marketing; Emily Panagi, accountancy; Elizabeth Ruvo, Psych 3+2 CMHC; and Sofia Ruvo, undeclared–general.

berg College.

•A graduate of Academy of Holy Angels, Amelia Blanco of Westwood has been named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List while studying studio art at Muhlenberg College.

•A graduate of Pascack Valley High School, Gabrielle Brayman of River Vale has been named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List while studying music and Jewish studies at Muhlenberg College.

•A graduate of Westwood Regional High School, Michael Carcich of the Township of Washington has been named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List at Muhlenberg College.

•A graduate of Park Ridge High School, Brendan Hughes of Park Ridge has been named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List while studying accounting and finance at Muhlenberg College.

•A graduate of Park Ridge High School, Matthew Manning of Park Ridge has been named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List while studying finance at Muhlenberg College.

• A graduate of Pascack Valley High School, Adrian Pilet of Hillsdale has been named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List while studying accounting and finance at Muhlenberg College.

•A graduate of Pascack Hills High School, Emma Schatzberg of Montvale has been named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List while studying sociology at Muhlenberg College.

WERNICK, STANKUS GRADUATE FROM DICKINSON COLLEGE

Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pa. announced the following students graduated May 18: Zachary Aaron Wernick, son of Ken and Nancy Wernick of Montvale, BA, economics, cum laude, deanʼs list, Pascack Hills High School; and Emma Lyn Stankus, daughter of James and Kathryn Stankus of River Vale, BA, English, magna cum laude, deanʼs list, Pascack Valley High School.

Local Fairfield University students graduated in May: Emersonʼs Caitlyn Conwell; Hillsdaleʼs Caroline Bonner, John Hachadourian, and Ashley McKenna; Montvaleʼs Daniel Agranovich, Brendan Bartoli, and Kristen Cuff; Park Ridgeʼs Alicia Healy; River Valeʼs Jack Lewis, Washington Townshipʼs Matthew Molta; and Woodcliff Lakeʼs Mackenzie Carluccio, Ingrid Henni, Samantha Iriarte, and Brodie Kinnear.

COLLETTI, GIBBONS, MATTHEWS ON HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

SPRING 2025 DEAN’S LIST

Hofstra University congratulates students named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List. Locals are Robert Colletti of Hillsdale, majoring in sports media; Anthony Gibbons of Park Ridge, majoring in filmmaking; and Isabella Matthews of River Vale, majoring as a pre-physician assistant..

LOOK WHO’S ROCKING TCNJ SPRING DEAN’S LIST

Locals have earned placement on the deanʼs list at The College of New Jersey for spring:

• Emerson: Jake Falotico, accountancy; Louden Mazzeo, kinesiology and health sciences; Ava Mokrzecki, management; Kristen Morgan, special education, English; Michael Pressimone, finance; Gianna Sassi, marketing; Ashlyn Sterinsky, early childhood/special education, sociology; and Victoria Sterinsky, marketing.

• Hillsdale: Diego Albert, history secondary education; Jake Depaolo, finance; Kelly Donlan, elementary education (BS), English; Evelyn Jansen, physics urban secondary education; and Christopher Londono, history secondary education.

• Montvale: Alejandro Camarena, speech language path. & audiology; Jasmine Delgado, visual arts; John Duffy, interactive multimedia; Briana Keenan, speech language pathology and audiology; Mark Paulillo, finance; Sophia Pettaris, psychology; Kelly Quinn, nursing; William Roche, computer science; Curen Sood, marketing; Athan Stamis, mechanical engineering; and Kate Zydor, psychology.

• River Vale: Jordyn Allen, psychology; Elizabeth Barlow, mechanical engineering; Madeline Campbell, English secondary special education; Ryan Campbell, history secondary education; Victoria Csatay, biology (BA); Sophia Donofrio, visual arts; Isabel Forcellati, kinesiology and health sciences; Samantha Polizzi, speech–language path., audiology; Hanna Wegner, elementary education–iSTEM; Emily Ghygliotti, undeclared–business; and Alexandra Whalen, psychology.

• Township of Washington: Tirso Ballesteros, nursing; Alyssa Ravennati, speech-lang path & audiology; and Danielle Vinagre, psychology

• Westwood: Amanda Burns, psychology; Isabel Difabio, computer science, interactive multimedia; and Justin Moallem, accountancy.

• Woodcliff Lake: Marisa Abbruzzesi, early childhood, English.

MURPHY OF RIVER VALE MAKES SPRING 2025 PROVOST'S LIST AT HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

Ryan Murphy of River Vale achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA for spring 2025, earning a spot on the Provostʼs List at Hofstra University. Murphy is majoring in biology

QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY GRADUATES STANDOUTS

The following students received degrees from Quinnipiac University during May commencement ceremonies. Emerson: Thomas Comeau, bachelor of science in supply chain management. Hillsdale: Alexandra Feldman, bachelor of science in health science sudies; John Zdankowski, master business admistration. Montvale: Matthew Goldman, bachelor of science in nursing; Daleth Koroghlian, master of science in nursing. Park Ridge: Jenna Hill, bachelor of science in health science studies; Brianna McEldowney, master of science in public relations. River Vale: Isabella DiBari, bachelor of arts in film, television and media arts; Nicolette Greco, bachelor of science in psychology; Katie Millman, bachelor of arts in communications. Township of Washington: Allison Gervais, bachelor of science in nursing; Skylar Scasserra, bachelor of science in nursing; Brandon Toro, master business administration. Woodcliff Lake: Joseph Bucello, master business administration.

graduating with honors from Nazareth University, The Township of Washington’s Kelly Bottini was secretary of the Nazareth Dance Organization. Via Instagram.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: You Can’t Pour From an Empty Coffee Cup

Today is N ational SelfCare Day—and no, that doesn't mean treating yourself to an overpriced candle while ignori ng the avalanche of laundry behind you.

True self-care i snʼt about escaping life; itʼs about designing a life you donʼt need to escape from. Itʼs proactive, intentional— and yes, itʼs scientific.

Letʼs start with the basics. When you look good, you feel g ood. Thatʼs not vanity—itʼs biology. Grooming, exercising, and dressing well can stimulate

feel-good brain chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. Even standing tall can boost confidence. In other words, good posture might just do more for your mood than you think.

Sleep matters, too. Poor sleep affects memory, mood, and metabolism. Want better focus, clearer skin, and more stable emotions? Sleep is the most a ffordable treatment plan out there.

Water is another unsung hero. Even slight dehydration can affect your mood and mental clarity. So before blaming your forgetfulness on age or genes, try a glass of water.

Eating well isnʼt about being skinny—itʼs about being sharp. A diet rich in greens, omega-3s, and

fermented foods supports gut health, which in turn affects brain health. If you eat junk, you feel like junk. Fuel your body and brain with real food, and theyʼll thank you.

Generosity counts, too. Volunteering lowers stress and lifts your spirit. Giving back helps your community—and it helps you feel grounded and purposeful.

Advertiser Content analyzes your brainwaves and helps determine if your brain fog, anxiety, or fatigue are neurological—or lifestyle-based. Normally $600, weʼre offering it for just $21 in honor of National Self-Care Day.

Exercise? Still the best antidepressant that never needs a refill. Moving your body— whether itʼs a walk, weights, or dancing in your kitchen—boosts brainpower, lifts mood, and helps you reset.

And donʼt underestimate grooming. Itʼs not just about looking good—itʼs about showing up for yourself. Taking a few extra minutes to feel put-together can boost confidence and reduce stress.

A nd finally: connection. Loneliness isnʼt just sad—itʼs dangerous. So call a friend, hug a loved one, say hi to your neighbor. Human connection is as vital as food and water.

So what does all this have to do with your brain? Everything. Your brain is the command center of your life—and when itʼs out of balance, everything else suffers.

Thatʼs why I recommend a qEEG Brain Mapping. Itʼs a noninvasive, radiation-free test that

WESTWOOD

Call 201-261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to book your appointment.

And if you need more inspiration, tune into my radio show, “Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan,” Saturdays at 8 a.m. on AM 970 and again at 2 p.m. on WOR 710.

Hereʼs to smarter, stronger self-care—starting today.

Learn, practice sign language

Interested in learning American Sign Language or looking to keep your skills sharp? The Westwood Public Library invites you to join its weekly ASL Practice Group, meeting every Tuesday in July from 11 a.m. to noon. This informal, drop-in group welcomes participants of all experience levels — from com-

plete beginners to fluent signers — for a relaxed hour of hands-on practice and conversation. Itʼs a great way to learn, build confidence, and connect with others who share an interest in ASL and Deaf culture.

For more information, contact Linda Andresen at LindaAndresen313@gmail.com.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

WOODCLIFF LAKE

‘Woodcliff Wednesdays’ bring music, movies, more

The boroughʼs new Woodcliff Park is hosting Woodcliff Wednesdays, a summer series of live performances and community events organized by the Woodcliff Lake Parks and Recreation Committee.

Councilmembers Julie Brodsky and Chris Bonanno, along with Recreation Director Ryan Magee, kicked off the series July 9 with a performance by Rockskafari, a reggae, rock and blues band.

Following resident feedback, the remaining Wednesday events on hand will begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted:

•Wednesday, July 30 at 7 p.m. — Paper Jam, electric and acoustic

•Wednesday, July Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. — Broadway Cabaret Night, featuring local Broadway talent

•Wednesday, Aug. 13 at 8

PASCACK VALLEY

Woodcliff Lake Mayor Carlos Rendo applauds as the name of the borough’s new park is officially revealed on Saturday, May 3. It is the borough’s first and only municipally owned park.

p.m. — Family Movie Night

Special Friday Night Show

•Friday, Aug. 15 from 5:308:30 p.m. — Frank and Beans,

soul and rock cover band, sponsored by The Shaps Group

The series is on track to help build momentum and community spirit at the new 2.1-acre park, which

School board seats open in RV, WCL

The River Vale and Pascack Valley Regional High School districts have announced two Board of Education seats each up for election on Tuesday, Nov. 4, and candidates are welcome.

In River Vale, two full-term (three-year) seats are open. In the Pascack Valley district, one seat each is available for River Vale and Woodcliff Lake residents.

Nominating petitions are due to

the Bergen County Clerk by 4 p.m. Monday, July 28. Candidate packets are available weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the River Vale BOE office, 609 Westwood Ave. Prospective candidates can also download the New Jersey School Boards Associationʼs free Candidate Kit at njsba.org, which outlines eligibility, filing details, key dates, and board responsibilities. “One of the most meaningful contributions that citizens can

make to their community is serving on the local board of education,” said Dr. Karen Cortellino, president of the New Jersey School Boards Association. “I encourage all interested citizens to consider school board membership. School board elections are nonpartisan, and service does not require a background in education— but it does require a sincere interest in the community, its children, and their education.”

officially opened May 3 at Werimus Road and Woodcliff Avenue, following more than a decade of planning and development.

The park features a walking track, gazebo, bandshell, restrooms, benches, open lawn, and a veterans memorial. It was built on the former Galaxy Gardens site with the help of county open space grants and community donations.

Question: I was told by my dentist that I need a root canal but I donʼt feel any pain. Do I really need the procedure? Ron B., Westwood Answer: I donʼt know your exact circumstances, but it is safe to say that teeth needing root canal do not always cause pain. Root canal has gotten a bad rap, but when needed, it should be completed in order to prevent potential severe infection and complications. Root canal is needed when a nerve is badly damaged, gets infected or dies. When a nerve dies (due to decay, fracture, trauma or for no apparent reason), the inside of the tooth can become illed with puss, bacteria and dead

“This is only the start,” said Mayor Carlos Rendo at the parkʼs grand opening. “We are committed as the council and mayor to continue on this improvement.”

This often causes gasses to form as a byproduct of the breakdown of the tissue, and gasses and bacteria can escape out the end of the root of the tooth. This can kill and destroy bone in the area, which often shows up on a x-ray as a dark area associated with the root.

It may or may not be painful, but the X-ray evidence is often very clear and can portend trouble if left untreated. This evidence along with some other tests your dentist may perform including hot, cold and percussion tests will show the dentist or endodontist whether or not to recommend treatment or to wait and observe if there are any changes in symptoms.

For questions about this or other dental procedures contact Dr. Guller at askdrguller@aol.com or call (201) 391-5565. Advertisement

Photo by Mike Olohan

PASCACK

SEIZE THE MOMENT TO EDUCATE ON MONEY SMARTS

Parents have a responsibility to teach their children about finances— and thatʼs true for wealthy families and less affluent families alike. Kids are smart enough to pick up on signals that their family may have more than others. But if the conversation stops at the benefits that money can bring, youʼre missing out on important life lessons. Theyʼre not really being taught how to be financially responsible once they leave the house and become

independent. What steps can parents take to teach both sensitivity and responsibility about money?

Step 1: Find teachable moments. It can be difficult to find time to sit down and talk specifically about wealth, but natural opportunities to teach pop up every day.

For example, you can incorporate financial responsibility into an impromptu math lesson about money: If you find something that originally cost $100 and itʼs on sale for 30% off, you can ask kids how much the new price is—and, now that they are only spending $70, what they might do with the $30 thatʼs left.

Step 2: Take a lifelong view toward financial literacy. Every child, and especially those who will one day inherit substantial wealth, should have a tool kit of basic financial literacy skills by 18, including concepts such as how to spend, how to save, how to give, and the value of a dollar.

This can start very early with an exercise as simple as a three piggy banks analogy. You encourage the child to divide any money heor she receives into three piggy banks: spending, saving, and community/charity.

This shows the concept of different types or purposes of money as opposed to all being for spending. Repeating this

exercise can help ingrain the habit of saving regularly.

By late childhood or adolescence, parents can add concepts such as what it means to invest, what companies one might invest in, and how you assess risk with an investment.

You can encourage children in high school to think about college expenses logically by examining the costs and coming up with a credible college budget. Ask them to consider basic questions: What will you need in order to make this happen? What will the family need to supply, and what is the student expected to supply, in terms of tuition, books, room and board, transportation, and normal spending money?

And parents and grandparents can continue to encourage responsible, long-term financial responsibility by giving young adults an incentive to begin saving for retirement early. If youʼre able, and they have earned income, offer to match what they save into a Roth IRA. Itʼs also wise to coax contributions to a 401(k) at work.

Step 3: Show your kids how itʼs done. Your childʼs healthy relationship with money begins with an open and honest relationship within a family that models good money behavior. These discussions can be challenging, but the

fruit is well worth the labor.

Stress education and expect them to do well in school. The parents who do really well in teaching financial literacy typically lead by example—they tend to be savers, and theyʼre more careful with spending money. Remember to be that example..

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) 5050472.

Investments in securities and insurance products are not FDICinsured/not bank-guaranteed and may lose value.

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

You don’t want any more numbers in your life, what with driver’s license, social security, credit cards, etc. No, you don’t want any more numbers... unless you need the legal services that can ease you through stressful situations... DWI... criminal charges... divorce... bankruptcy... buying or selling a home... protecting your assets... abuse... disputes with neighbors... We’d like to try to provide solutions to your problems, provided, of course, you are willing to handle one more number... our phone number.

ERIC KOHLMEIER

Honored:

FROM PAGE 5

theimer relayed:

• Nicholas Soltesz and Peter Wunk, West Milford — Nicholas and Peter both serve in the West Milford Police Department. Late one Saturday night, they responded to a call for a car crash on Clinton Road. Peter was first on the scene, where a car was pluming smoke with two passengers trapped inside. Peter raced in to assess the injuries of the passengers, when the smoke broke out into a fire.

Peter pulled out a knife and cut the driver out of his seat and began dragging him up a hill. Nicholas immediately ran down to get the other passenger out — even tearing a ligament in his hand doing it.

Within one minute after both passengers were brought to safety, the car became engulfed in flames. Despite their own injuries, Peter and Nicholas saved two lives that night.

•Johnny “Johnny Buckets” Jackson, Ridgewood — Johnny, also known as Johnny Buckets, is a recent graduate of Ridgewood High School and a basketball player. In 2023, he began to feel tired after games and practices.

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

After 10 months Johnny received a diagnosis of Stage 4B Hodgkinʼs lymphoma. Two days before his 18th birthday, he began chemotherapy. Despite months of treatments and Johnny was determined to play on the opening night of his senior year, scoring 30 points. He never missed a game, becoming the first basketball player in Ridgewood history to score 2,000 points — even while enduring chemotherapy treatments. Johnny helped the team make it to the state semifinals and earned the title of 2024–2025 Boys Basketball Player of the Year.

•Joseph Bianco, Closter — Joe is the chairman of the Closter Zoning Board of Adjustment,

Session:

FROM PAGE 2

posted Friday, Aug. 1. The public is welcome to attend and comment in person. While regular meetings are recorded and posted online by PKRG-TV, itʼs unclear whether this special meeting will be.

“We took the extra effort to publish [notice] in The Record, although not required,” Giandomenico said. “The timing gives the mayor and council

where he has served for more than 30 years and has never missed a single meeting.

He served Closter as a councilman in 1978 and 1981, and as mayor from 1983 to 1986. Joe has spent decades helping shape the development of North Jerseyʼs neighborhoods and business districts. Joe has played a critical role in securing funding for the Closter Senior Citizens Center, renovating the Closter Borough Hall, creating a new Lewis Street extension, and helping to establish Temple Emanuelʼs new home.

• Theresa Johnston, Paramus — Theresa, after experiencing domestic violence, made a vow to help as many others as possible —

time to work collaboratively on the question and explanatory statement.”

She noted the Council can tweak the question during the meeting. “The meeting is in the evening so the public can attend,” she added.

Mayor Keith Misciagna, Council President Greg Hoffman, and Councilman Michael Mintz are leading the effort. Misciagna previously said many residents supported the 2023 referendum but were unclear on costs. This yearʼs version, he

turning her personal tragedy into a guiding hand of hope for countless survivors of abuse. Theresa is the founder of Never Alone Again Domestic Violence Organization & Resource Center, a non-profit that has helped survivors of domestic violence for more than 25 years by providing emergency shelter, crisis intervention services, community outreach, and emotional and spiritual support.

Theresa also helps run A PANTRY for Us, an online food pantry.

Adapted from a submission by Peter Figueroa, speechwriter for Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5)

said, will be clear, fair, and transparent.

Officials say local funding could help Park Ridge qualify for state and federal grants to support pond cleanup.

For more background, see “Park Ridge races to finalize Mill Pond referendum question before Aug. 8 deadline” by Michael Olohan (thepressgroup.net, July 13, 2025).

— Staff writer Michael Olohan

In a tradition as enduring as the values it celebrates, the Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427 held its annual Scholarship Awards Night on June 10, recognizing outstanding students for academic excellence, community involvement, and thoughtful reflection on civic virtue.

The event, at the Council Hall on Pascack Road, brought togeth-

er council members, families, and community leaders to honor local and member-related students whose achievements stood out in a competitive field.

Five high school and collegebound students were recognized as winners of the Councilʼs 2025 Essay Contest, which asked entrants to consider the essential character traits of elected officials.

The prompt challenged students to

answer two questions: What are the two most important virtues for an elected official to possess and why? And, How can you determine if a leader has these virtues?

Essay submissions highlighted traits including accountability, courage, intelligence, justice, and prudence.

The winning essayists:

• Christopher Ackermann , entering Regis High School, NYC

• Ryann Cenicola, entering sophomore year at Immaculate Heart Academy

• Connor Eckert, entering Bergen Catholic High School

• John Fusco , entering Westwood Regional High School

• Alanna Hammer, entering Lynn University, Tampa, Fla.

For more information, visit www.kofc5427.com or call 201664-0422.

Pallatta:

FROM PAGE 18 the plays.”

Even with the challenges, itʼs work that feeds him.

“I think I would have done this work for free, just to be outside and moving,” he said.

In March, Dave and Elaine Frant presented to the Westwood Library Garden Club, showcasing public gardens within a two-hour drive of the Pascack Valley. Pallatta handled the commentary; Richardʼs photography brought the gardens to life.

“Everyone was very impressed,”Richard told us. “The garden club members, including my wife, who really know gardening, were very impressed and asked lots of questions and had discussions with him after the talk. The Westwood Library Garden Club visited Daveʼs garden a few weeks ago.”

As fall approaches, the Little Island team will plant thousands of bulbs for the spring. At home, Pallatta is catching up on personal garden projects that had been on hold.

REAL ESTATE PASCACK VALLEY

Heʼs also a strong advocate for sustainable landscaping, encouraging homeowners to replace patches of lawn with native perennials and pollinatorfriendly plants.

“Nice green lawns may look great but they require so much water, pesticides, fertilizers, etc., and they really donʼt do much for the environment,” he said. “Every little bit helps, and homeowners will be surprised how much converting even a small patch of your lawn into a perennial garden will attract different birds, insects, butterflies, etc., to your yard.”

His advice for others considering a midlife career change?

“Itʼs never too late to make a change. I was 57 when I started the program,” he said. “If you canʼt do it full time, maybe find a place to volunteer weekends or take a night class or whatever you can to start moving in the direction you want to go. The first step is the hardest one. Once you get started it gets much easier.”

For now, Pallatta is where he wants to be. He also knows that for everything there is a season. “Horticulture is a huge field, and there are lots of different areas I want to explore in the next few years.”

Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) on July 22 said in a statement that it anticipates a “near flat” impact on customer electric bills despite a rise in the PJM capacity auction price from $270 to $329 per megawatt-day for the period June 2026–May 2027.

PSE&G noted that it does not profit from auction outcomes, and that higher costs will be offset by older, higher supply prices rolling off and no major “true-up” charge like the one that inflated 2024 bills.

“Despite this increase in the PJM BRA price,” the utility said in a statement, “if other supplyrelated costs remain roughly the

same... we anticipate a near flat impact on customersʼelectric bills effective June 1, 2026.”

Still, PSE&G warned that PJMʼs current three-year forward auction system is outdated and not

sending strong enough signals to encourage new power generation. It called for reforms to prevent volatility once the current price cap expires after next yearʼs auction.

•

It was a hot June for Westwood fire volunteers

Fire Chief Brian Kronewitter reports that the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department responded to 38 emergency calls in June, alongside four training drills and five maintenance/work sessions. Volunteers contributed more than 360 hours of service for the month.

No serious fires occurred in Westwood during this period, but fire crews were dispatched on eight mutual aid assignments to surrounding towns. Westwood firefighters assisted River Vale on three calls, and responded once each to Hillsdale, Washington Township, and Emerson. They also assisted in a significant structure fire in Woodcliff Lake on June 30.

Shortly before midnight on that date, Westwoodʼs Truck 1 was requested into Woodcliff Lake to provide a FAST (Firefighter Assist and Search Team) unit at the scene of a house fire on Martha Street. Upon arrival, Westwood crews set

up ground ladders and stood by for rapid intervention while interior units battled the blaze. The fire, which drew a multi-town response, was brought under control within an hour and is under investigation by the Woodcliff Lake Fire Prevention Bureau. No injuries were reported.

Of the 38 calls in Westwood, 23 were for automatic fire alarms. No fires were found in these instances; each alarm required a full department response. Firefighters inspected the affected buildings to confirm there was no fire present.

Of the 23 alarms:

•12 were caused by system malfunctions,

•5 were triggered by cooking,

•6 were attributed to miscellaneous sources including contractors, a theatrical smoke machine, dust from a vacuum, and a burglar alarm mistaken for a fire alarm.

Two calls involved carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. While no

CO was detected by fire crews, these calls prompted full inspections and were turned over to PSE&G for follow-up. CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly at high concentrations.

Two other calls involved suspected gas leaks. In one instance, the odor was traced to a mixture of cleaning chemicals; in the other, no leak was found.

Other incidents during the month included:

• A vehicle rollover with occupants safely out upon fire department arrival. Crews secured the scene and stood by for a tow.

FROM PAGE 4 traditions into their homes, and a sense of belonging in our community.”

The Westwood Volunteer FireDept. responded as a FAST Team to assist Woodcliff Lake firefighters at the scene of a structure fire late June 30. WCL Fire Dept. photo.

• A small mulch fire at a townhouse complex, quikly extinguished.

• A report of balloons tangled in high-tension wires, which caused electrical arcing. The arcing stopped prior to arrival, and PSE&G was notified to investigate and make repairs.

The Westwood Fire Department reminds residents to maintain their alarm systems, ensure CO detectors are in working order, and report any suspicious smells or fire-related concerns immediately The department is staffed entirely by volunteers.

PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING

PARK FLOORING

For more information about the JCCʼs programs and to become part of this growing community visit http://jccnnj.org.

JCC of Northern NJ Spring Celebration staff and supporters. L to R: Arielle Kuzdral (Parent Connector), Anna Premselaar (Development Associate), Jessica Sims, Jessica Gomperts (Kol Dorot), Sophya Rosen (Temple Beth Rishon), Natalie Itskov, Talia Kornfeld (Parent Connector)

BOROUGH OF HILLSDALE – P/TCONSTRUCTION

OFFICIAL- The Borough of Hillsdale is seeking a parttime Construction Official, HHS Building Subcode Official. Approximately 20 hours per week. Applicants must hold a valid Construction Official license issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Certification in FEMAflood plain regulations and holding multiple discipline licenses are a plus. The ideal candidate will have a strong knowledge of construction codes, management principles, and the ability to enforce regulations and maintain accurate records. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with the public, co-workers and local and state officials are essential. Applicants must hold a valid NJ driver’s license. Annual Salary range: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00.To apply, please submit your resume and qualifications to mailto:mghassali@hillsdalenj.org by EOD August 11, 2025.

Busy Food/Berverage Truck Seeking help from May-Oct. Must be 18 yrs. old, No Experience Necessary, Good Pay, Honest Workers. Call Lindsay, (201) 301-5617.

HELPWANTED - Bather needed Tuesday thru Saturday at dog salon. Call Elizabeth 201-444-0656 H

Twp. Of Washington DPW Seeks 1-2 PartTime/Seasonal Workers Up to 29 hours a week, D.L. req., must be 18+. Contact DPW: (201) 6643268 or Email: DPW@twpofwashington.us

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS LABORER TEMPORARY F/T SUMMER HELP– HILLSDALE BOROUGH.The Borough is accepting applications for Temporary Full Time Help. Duties will include but are not limited to field maintenance, road repairs, grass cutting, heavy lifting & potential storm debris clean-ups.Must have a valid New Jersey Driver’s License. Employment applications are available at www.hillsdalenj.org or at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ. To apply, please complete a job application from our website and submit to the DPW Superintendent at mailto:bpeterson@hillsdalenj.org or you may drop off your application at 380 Hillsdale Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ 07642 by August 11. 2025. The Borough reserves the right to interview candidates prior to the expiration of the job posting.EOE.

PT — Liquor Store. Northvale area. Approx. 15 hr/wk. Eves, wknds, holidays. Cashier/stock. Strong org skills, some deliveries. 201-370-8090.

Pest Control Technician - F/T, P/T Experience a plus,but will train the right candidate. Call (201) 664-3933.

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

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.

Parking Enforcement Officer – Borough of Westwood. Part-time position (10–15 hrs/week) including Saturdays. Responsibilities include identifying and issuing parking citations. Must communicate effectively, handle public interactions, and work outdoors in all weather. Requires standing/walking for 4-plus hrs/day and lifting up to 25 lbs. Valid NJ driver’s license and background check required. Apply by Aug. 8, 2025: Send resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to Carol Knubel, Parking Utility Administrator: cknubel@westwoodnj .gov. EOE. The Borough may interview/hire as applications are received. H

Caregiver - Full time Caregiver for an Elderly Person. Live in 7 days per week. Cooking, Light cleaning. Loving, kind, caring 22 years experience, Refs. Available. Call Nataliya @ 201-566-8166.

Household assistant: meals, light houskeeping, misc. chores. Flex. PT hours. Write Terry at Toby2092000@ yahoo.com.

CLEANING SERVICE20% off new clients for 3 month contract. Call Agnis (845) 309-4448.

TWO-CAR GARAGE for car storage. Call 201-8879101.

Bright and spacious master bedroom with closet, modern kitchen, living area, and shared bathroom in Westwood near transportation, shopping. We seek a clean, respectful, responsible roommate. No smoking, no pets. Utilities and parking included in the month-tomonth rent of $1,000. Request one month security. For more information, text or call 973592-2678 Denisse.

Polish lady will clean your house, apt, office. Free estimate. Refs available. Call Maria at 201-4782236.

Furniture, clothes, tools, microwave, dolls, cabi-

Kathy STEINBERG

Kathy Steinberg, 106, formerly of Hillsdale and Mahwah, was a remarkable woman and mother. She lived life with grace, courage, curiosity and dignity. She passed away July 14.

Kathy was born in Montréal, Canada, on the last day of World War I, the third of four children of Louis and Rose Feldstein, who fled persecution in Eastern Europe.

She grew up in poverty during the Great Depression, starting work part time as early as age 12 at a five and dime and then at a clothing manufacturing plant to help her family make ends meet. After high school, she worked for a company that imported machinery, eventually becoming its office manager.

She was very resourceful in her youth, traveling around Montréal to find skates and ski equipment she was able to afford.

She grew up in the neighborhood below Mont Royal and learned to ski from others she saw skiing there. After learning to ski, she taught a whole group of friends to ski as well, eventually leading them on ski trips in her beloved Laurentian Mountains outside Montréal.

In 1943, Kathy was introduced to the love of her life, Ben Steinberg of New Jersey, the brother of her pen pal. In 1945, after the end of World War II, Ben and Kathy were married, and she left her beloved Canada and moved to New Jersey. There, Ben started an optometric practice, and they started a family. They had three sons: Dennis, Ronald and Leon.

Kathy was an avid golfer. A fantastic, mostly self-taught cook, she was interested in healthy cooking and eating before it was popular.

She walked as much as 3 miles a day even into her late 80ʼs.

She was an accomplished knitter and crocheter, an avid reader, and “amateur doctor” on achieving healthy lifestyles. She must have been right, because she continued to live alone until she was 103, still driving —well — and doing her own housekeeping and food shopping until then.

After Benʼs untimely death, in 1968, Kathy took on the role of being a single mother to three boys, including one struggling with mental health issues. She became a fierce defender for her children, navigating them through childhood and fighting to get her mentally challenged son the help he needed. Her devotion resulted in him living a much better life. She helped all of her sons find the best lives they could, by setting the right example herself.

Kathy is survived by her son Ron and daughter-in-law Anita; and son Leon and grandchildren Bobby and Caroline, whom she adored. She got special joy from watching their numerous games and school events. She was predeceased by her

OBITUARIES

husband, Ben, and recently by son Dennis.

Many thanks to the wonderful care our mother received from the staff at Jewish Home Assisted Living in River Vale, and from VNA Englewood Hospice. Her wish for all who knew her would be to live life to the fullest today..

Merwyn METLITZ

Merwin Metlitz, 94, of Woodcliff Lake, died peacefully at home on Saturday, July 12, 2025.

Born Feb. 2, 1931, and raised in Montvale, he attended Montvale Elementary School. He graduated from Park Ridge High School in 1948. He earned his pharmacy degree from the University of Oklahoma, where he met his future wife, Elaine Aber of St. Louis, Mo.

After serving as a medic in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, the couple settled in Woodcliff Lake, where Merwin lived for more than 60 years. He worked alongside his father, Henry, and brother, David, operating Hillsdale Pharmacy and Ridgemont Drugs for more than 40 years.

A longtime member of the TriBoro Volunteer Ambulance Corps, he served as vice president, captain and lieutenant. He also volunteered in the pharmacy departments at Pascack Valley Hospital and Valley Hospital.

Surviving are his wife, Elaine, whom he married in 1957; his children, Mindy Geller (Sheldon), Jeffrey, Pamela Loher (Steve) and Stacey Milman; and six grandchildren.

Merwin enjoyed classical music, cars, and dinners at local Chinese restaurants.

A private funeral was held. Donations in his memory may be made to Tunnel to Towers or St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital.

Arrangements were by Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge. For more information, visit rsfhi.com.

David D. BROWN

David D. Brown, 72, a resident of Mahwah, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. He was born on March 17, 1953 in Hammond, Ind. David retired from logistics transportation. He loved music and movies, and was a big fan (!) of science fiction films.

He is survived by his loving mother, Beverly J. Brown. Dear brother of Debbie Guy and Lori Snedeker and her husband, Jeff Adoring uncle of his three nieces, Sarah, Hannah, and Katie. David is also survived by his aunt Nell and many cousins.

Services for David were private, He was interred in the family plot at Rockland Cemetery, next to his father, Clyde (2014).

Andrew Stephen HODGKINS

Jeffrey Anders OST

Jeffrey Anders Ost, 57, of Westwood, was taken too soon, on Saturday, July 5, 2025.

Andrew S. Hodgins, 61, of Park Ridge, passed away unexpectedly on June 28, 2025. Andrew was a loving husband to Susan, devoted father to his sons Jonathan and Matthew, and beloved father-inlaw to Jonathanʼs wife Samantha.

Andrew is predeceased by his parents, William and Elizabeth Hodgins, his fatherin-law, Anthony Forty, and his surviving mother-in-law Emilia “Amy” Forty. Cherished brother of Nancy (Hodgins) Reynolds and her husband, Gil, William B. Hodgins III, and David Hodgins.

Beloved brother-in-law of Beth (Forty) Parsons and her husband, George. Beloved uncle to Gregory Reynolds and his wife Joanna, Larissa (Reynolds) Trawinski and her husband, Peter, Christopher Parsons and his wife, Melissa, Emily (Parsons) Sivick and her husband, Jordan, and David Hodgins. He was a treasured cousin and great-uncle to many. Andrew was a beloved, lifelong friend to many. He thought of them as family, and became an instant friend to everyone he met.

Andrew was a family man, raising his family in the town in which he grew up and that he loved. He treasured spending time with his family and friends, doing the many things he loved:whether it was time at the beach, on the golf course, at the lake camping, fishing and boating, in the mountains skiing, at the fields with his children, walking around his neighborhood, or in his backyard, grilling. Andrew loved that the outdoors brought people together and allowed us all to unwind and relax.

Andrew was cherished in the Park Ridge community. He was the owner of RidgeMont Liquors, where he worked for over 45 years. He served countless roles in Park Ridge but his favorite was as umpire for youth baseball and softball.

Andrew was dedicated to helping people no matter how large or small the task. He was the first person you would call and his voice would always assure you that you were in good hands.

Andrew gave many gifts to everyone around him during his life, and the most beautiful gift to us all was the amazing bond of family, friends, and community that he so passionately created with everyone he loved. Together we will all be able to remember Andrew and the amazing life he lived.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Andrewʼs name to Tri-Boro Ambulance Corps or The Park Ridge Police Association, 33 Park Ave, Park Ridge, NJ 07656.

Beloved son of Jane Ost (née Dreyer) and Roy Ost (deceased). Devoted brother of Diane Elefante (n ée Ost) and Bradley Ost (deceased).

Dear brother-inlaw of Edward Ribaudo. Loving uncle of Amber and Aidan Elefante, and Addison and Cameron RibaudoOst.

Jeff grew up in Westwood and graduated from Bergen Technical School, where he studied plumbing.

He was a master pumber and owner of All Wet Plumbing Co. Inc. He considered his customers friends.

An avid fan of movies and music, he recalled names and dates like a human encyclopedia.

Jeff will be dearly missed by all those who loved him.

The family celebrated his life on Saturday, July 19 at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity in honor of Jeff.

Virginia POGGI

Virginia Poggi (née Castellano), 97, of the Township of Washington, formerly of Newark, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025 surrounded by her family.

Virginiaʼs legacy lives on through her four devoted children: Ronald A. Poggi and his wife Cheryl, Mary A. Gould, Robert N. Poggi and his wife, Denise, and Felicia Brockner and her husband, Chris.

She was the cherished grandmother to Michael Anthony and his wife, Laura, Matthew and his wife, Mia, Nathan and his partner, Brandi, Calvin and his wife, Gina, Eddy, Chris, Amber, Heidi, Joshua, Sarah, James, Rhianna and Jack.

Virginia was also delighted by her two great-grandchildren, Michael and Christopher, and held a special place in her heart for her many nieces and nephews, to whom she was affectionately known as Aunt Virgie.

Virginia is survived by her dear brother, Victor Castellano. She was reunited in eternal rest with her beloved husband, Anthony, as well as her siblings, Columbia, Marie, and Gerald Castellano.

Family was the cornerstone of Virginiaʼs life. At the tender age of 6, she experienced the loss of her mother, leading her to bravely step into the role of caregiver for her father as her siblings began their own families. She remained by his side until she married Anthony in 1961.

Their early years were spent in Englewood before they found their cherished suburban home in Washington Township in 1968, where they lovingly raised their children.

Friends and family were invited

to pay their respects at Becker Funeral Home in Westwood on July 23. A Mass celebrating Virginiaʼs life and faith was held at St. Andrew R.C. Church in Westwood on Thursday, July 24 with interment at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Tenafly following. Memorial contributions can be made in Virginiaʼs name to Valley Hospice at valleyhospitalfoundation.org/donate, Visiting Angels, 17 S. Franklin Tpke, Ramsey, NJ 07446 and/or Family of Caring, 124 Noyes Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. BeckerFuneralHome.com

John TEKIRIAN

John Tekirian, 90, formerly of the Township of Washington, died on July 22, 2025.

He is survived by his children, Melanie (Dillon Wu) and Stephen (Nicole); and his grandchildren, Rebecca Wu, Abbie Tekirian, Lindsey Tekirian and Nathan Tekirian.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 58 years, Diane (née Liebel); his parents, Rebecca (née Zartarian) and Simon Tekirian; and his sister and brother-in-law, Nanette (née Tekirian) and Aram Bashian.

Mr. Tekirian grew up in Washington Heights, Manhattan, the child of immigrants and survivors of the Armenian Genocide.

He was known for his kindness, humor, and loyalty—often sharing jokes, magic tricks, and laughter with family and friends. He maintained lifelong friendships across every stage of life.

He was devoted to his wife, Diane, and was a supportive and loving father.

John earned a bachelorʼs degree in economics from New York University and a masterʼs in industrial and labor relations from the University of Illinois. He had a long career in human resources, working at CBS and retiring, in 1997, as director of compensation for McGraw-Hill.

Throughout his adult life, he was active in civic and philanthropic causes, including the Emerson Menʼs Club and Optimist International. He served in many volunteer roles over nearly five decades at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Hillsdale, where he was a devoted parishioner and supported Diane in all her charitable works.

Visitation is Sunday, July 27, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood. A celebration of life and faith is set for Monday, July 28, at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Hillsdale, with interment to follow at Valleau Cemetery in Ridgewood.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Johnʼs name to UNICEF for Armenia (unicef.org/armenia/en/donate) or Hilarity for Charity (https://wearehfc.org). BeckerFuneralHome.com.