PASCACK PRESS 8.4.25

Did we see you there? Richard Frant shares photos from the annual WVAC carnival.

BELOVED OCTAGON HOUSE

MAKING ITSMARK

Borough awards

$54K contract to begin historic preservation; eyes on state, federal recognition

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

If youʼve ever driven through Montvale, youʼve seen the Octagon House.

Itʼs not just a local curiosity; itʼs a claim to fame and should be an instantly recognized symbol: The unique eight-sided structure is featured prominently on the borough seal and has long stood as one of Montvaleʼs most recognizable buildings.

Now, the borough is taking

See HOUSE on page 20

MONTVALE 14U DOES IT AGAIN MONTVALE 14U DOES IT AGAIN

Takes home KSL title rings; tops Cresskill, 5–3, to claim third summer title together

Montvale 14U celebrates their 5–3 victory over Cresskill to win the Kinderkamack Softball League Summer Championship on July 24—the team’s third summer championship together,and their first with championship rings Front to back,left to right:Riley Butler,Jaelyn Pawlyk,Nina Tuli,Gabby Marino,Penny Ramm,Madison Higgins,Addy Zoelle,Marin Faller,Leah Cigercioglu,and Lynn Ryan. Christine Higgins photo.

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

THE MONTVALE 14U girls softball team capped off a remarkable season

with a 5–3 win over Cresskill on July 24 to claim the Kinderkamack Softball League Summer Championship—their third summer title together as a core group.

SUMMER SOUNDS

The summer sounds of Strauss, movie magic, and classical favorites filled the air at River Vale’s Upper Grove Field on a recent picnicperfect Saturday.

According to head coach Marc Zoelle, the victory is the latest milestone for a team that has grown up playing side by side.

Continued on page 25

MORE THAN ROBOTS: PI-ONEERS TEAMUP ONGOOD WORKS

BYJOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Theyʼre the Pascack Pi-oneers, Team 1676 in the FIRST Robotics Competition, and this spring marked their 21st year designing, building, and competing at the highest levels of student-led robotics.

Representing the Pascack Valley Regional High School District, they hail from Hillsdale, River Vale, Montvale, and Woodcliff Lake.

This season, the Pi-oneers qualified once again for the FIRST World Championship, held in Houston, Texas—where they finished a strong 26th out of 75 in their division. Back home in the FIRST Mid-Atlantic District, they were finalists at one event, came within one match of repeating that at another, and ultimately ranked 16th of 60 teams at the District Championship. Thatʼs no small feat for a robot designed and built entirely by students in just eight weeks.

“Every year the robot is built entirely by our members,” coCEO Agrima (her first name) told See WORKS on page 18

This week we go back 130 years with a snapshot of local life in the last decade of the 19th century ou’re looking at downtown Park Ridge in the summer of 1895. Kristin Beuscher reports.

4

PASCACK VALLEY

Huge thanks for Inserra family’s support of our youth

At the writerʼs request, we are delighted to share this letterto Jessica Tripodi, Inserra Supermarkets Inc., Mahwah:

ON BEHALFOF Pascack Valley

Class of 2025 Project Graduation, we extend our sincere

thanks to Inserra Supermarkets for your generous community support for our senior event.

Your donation to our children, including gluten free and special dietary needs, demonstrates your partnership and care for the community.

I am a regular shopper at ShopRite, and your kind support makes me extra glad that I am.

The graduates enjoyed the snacks that you provided and extend their gratitude.

Sincerely,

Jenny Supple

Pascack Valley High School

Class of 2025 Project Graduation Committee

Club thanks garage sale supporters

To the editor: T

HE GREATER Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club wishes to thank everyone who supported our garage sale on July 12. The money raised will be donated to charities supporting our military veterans.

Kathy Grubb for NJSFWC Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club

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

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:

• Aug. 6 – Beauty & The Grease

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Park costs, online access, emergency prep in focus

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFFLAKE

Two longtime residents took to the mic at the July 21 council meeting, raising concerns about the cost of the new Woodcliff Park, the lack of online public participation at meetings, and the boroughʼs emergency preparedness.

Sixty-year resident Burt Taylor and former mayor and councilwoman Josephine Higgins were the only residents to speak, engaging the mayor and council in nearly 15 minutes of discussion.

Taylor asked officials if they were happy with the new park and its events, and questioned whether residents truly knew the total cost of the project. Councilman Joshua Stern responded that all financial information was public.

Taylor also criticized the borough for covering the siteʼs environmental cleanup—about $500,000 for oil residue remediation—instead of the seller.

Mayor Carlos Rendo pushed back, explaining that the site, formerly a gas station and nursery called Galaxy Gardens, required remediation due to its proximity to a stream and past contamination. “If you want to do it right, you do it,” said Rendo, who cast the

deciding vote in 2018 to purchase the site for $1.65 million. “Thereʼs no price for the enjoyment of the residents of this town.”

Woodcliff Park is the boroughʼs first and only municipal park. (Nearby Wood Dale Park is county-owned.)

Taylor reiterated that most residents are unaware of the full costs. Council members disagreed, pointing out that Pascack Press has covered the project extensively over the past six years, including environmental cleanup, change orders, and more. (Search Galaxy Gardens at thepressgroup.net.)

In 2018, when the borough purchased the 2.1-acre site for $1.65 million, some residents and officials opposed the move due to potential contamination. Valley Chabad Center for Jewish Life had previously eyed the land for expansion, but its interest faded as environmental issues became apparent.

At the parkʼs grand opening on May 3, Rendo praised past and current councils for backing the project and emphasized that converting the site to open space transformed an “environmentally impacted area.”

By Pascack Press estimates, the full cost—including $500,000 in remediation, $2.75 million in

construction, and a $1.5 million legal settlement with Valley Chabad—totals around $6.4 million, excluding soft costs.

Zoom access, public comment

Taylor also asked whether residents could participate in meetings via Zoom. Council members said the public currently can watch meetings via Zoom or YouTube but must attend in person to comment. Alternatively, residents may email comments to the borough clerk to be entered into the meeting record.

Borough Clerk Debbie Dakin noted that most of Taylorʼs prior emailed comments had already been answered and not read aloud at meetings. However, any resident may request that their comments be formally read and recorded.

Officials noted that only three viewers were tuned into the meetingʼs YouTube livestream at one point.

Emergency planning

Higgins, a longtime EMS volunteer and former mayor, urged the borough to better prepare residents for emergencies, citing the recent flooding tragedy in Kerrville, Texas.

“I think itʼs really important,” she said. “If they donʼt have the

REMOVE STANDING WATER; COUNTYRALLIESVS. MOSQUITOS

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCCK PRESS

HILLSDALE

Michael Sheinfield is urging residents to remove standing water from their properties to help prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of disease. Each spring, Bergen Countyʼs Division of Mosquito Control places traps

in known problem areas throughout the county and tests captured mosquitoes for viruses, including West Nile.

To date, no infected mosquitoes have been found in Hillsdale.

Residents who are property owners and notice standing water on their land can call the county at 201-634-2880 to schedule a free site visit and treatment, if needed.

Please note: the county will not

spray in standing water that contains live fish.

For concerns about properties not owned by the caller—such as vacant lots or public land—residents should contact the borough. The Hillsdale DPW will coordinate with the county to address these locations.

“Thank you in advance for your vigilance,” said Sheinfield.

knowledge, this is where people die.” She recalled a dam break during her tenure as mayor that gave local officials just 30 minutes to evacuate equipment as water rushed in.

She noted that the Tice Senior Center could serve as a warming or cooling center in emergencies and stressed the importance of getting plans and tips into residentsʼhands.

Councilwomen Nicole Marsh and Jennifer Margolis said they

would work with the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and public safety officials to develop a public emergency plan.

The mayor and council also congratulated Higgins for being honored as a Fifth District Hometown Hero by Congressman Josh Gottheimer.

(See “Pascack Valley doers Higgins, Cirelli, Levinson honored as Fifth District Hometown Heroes,” July 18, 2025, thepressgroup.net.)

75 Exhibitors on Tree Shaded Front Lawn Chainsaw Animals, Folk Art, Turned Wood Items, Jeweled Utensils, Pottery, Jewelry, Welcome & Flag Signs, Framed Dried Florals, Photography, Hanging Planters, Fiber, Ceramics, Watercolors, Apparel, Soaps, Candles, Fiber, Mandala Art, Stained Glass & So Much More Food Truck, Drinks & Desserts Will be Available Sponsored by The Friends of the Hermitage

AUGUST

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Delivering Dignity:Meals on Wheels North Jersey expands service across Pascack Valley

Meals on Wheels North Jersey, based in Woodcliff Lake, is proud to announce that they are accepting new clients here in the Pascack Valley and wider northern Bergen County.

With a mission to support the independence, health, and well-being of older adults and homebound individuals, the organization provides more than just a nutritious meal — they deliver peace of mind, friendly visits, and a vital connection to the community.

Every weekday, trained volunteers and staff members deliver hot, balanced meals directly to clients' doors, offering both nourishment and a caring presence. In many cases, the volunteer drivers are the only people clients see that day, making these daily check-ins a lifeline for safety and emotional support.

“If you or someone you know is recovering from illness or surgery, or facing challenges shopping or cooking, weʼre here to help,” Janelle Larghi, executive director, tells Pascack Press. “Our goal is to ensure no one has to choose between food and independence.”

Enrollment is open and services can be initiated quickly. Meals on Wheels North Jersey also works with

See MEALS page 12

A view of downtown Park Ridge at the turn of the century shows three key buildings on Hawthorne Avenue, across from the train station. At left is the Mansard-roofed Foisy & Tiemeyer dry goods store, which also housed a delicatessen and post office—today, the site of Cyclesport. Center is George Ritter’s barber shop, a social hub for local men. At right, W.B. Smith’s real estate office, from which he helped guide Park Ridge’s 1894 incorporation. The hitching posts, horsedrawn wagon, and storefront signs capture a borough eager to grow.

Depot Square, 1895:a borough on the rise

THIS WEEK we go back 130 years with a snapshot of local life in the last decade of the 19th century You are looking at downtown Park Ridge in the summer of 1895.

The photograph shows the stores on Hawthorne Avenue across from the railroad station. The most significant structure, standing at the corner of Park and

SPECIALTO PASCACK PRESS

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

Hawthorne, is the beautiful three-story building with a Mansard roof. This place, built when the railroad came through in 1871, signaled to travelers that Park Ridge was going to be a town of prominence.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, this was a dry goods store. While it changed hands from Foisyʼs to Tiemeyerʼs, this was a place to buy groceries, cloth, shoes, tobacco, hats, animal feed, medicines, household goods, and much more.

By 1895 the store also contained a small delicatessen and the post office. In this pho-

tograph, we can see a horse and wagon waiting out front. Hitching posts at the curb-line were the parking spots of the day. The building is still standing, though it has been remodeled, and for many years it has been Cyclesport.

One might guess at the business that was in the middle building, based on the striped pole out front.

This was George Ritterʼs barber shop. Born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1872, Ritter had come to America at 17. He was in his 20s when he set up his barber shop in Depot Square. This was a masculine space, visited by the men of Park Ridge for haircuts, shaves, and to talk politics and local happenings. In the Ritter home, it was a different story: George was thoroughly outnumbered by his wife and six daughters.

The most significant building (other than the Depot itself) is the threestory A.Foisy Dry Goods store.On the corner of Park Ave.and Hawthorne Ave with a flat Mansard roof, it served notice that Park Ridge was going to be a town of prominence.Its now houses CycleSport.

The small building on the right was William B. Smithʼs real estate office. Smith was a major landowner who began a silkworm

farm and located his business office in Depot Square. When the farm failed, Smith switched gears and created the Park Ridge Improvement Association, the group that brought about the incorporation of the borough in 1894. With the silkworm business shut down and Park Ridge transforming from rural to suburban, Smith embraced the change. He divided his land into marketable properties and his office in Depot Square became W.B. Smith Real Estate.

LARGHI

Property tax bills rise slightly in third quarter

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCCK PRESS

HILLSDALE

Residents have begun receiving their third-quarter estimated tax bills, reflecting a modest increase in the boroughʼs 2025 property tax levy.

For the average Hillsdale home assessed at $476,250, the total property tax bill is projected to rise by $677.38, or 4.48% year over year, bringing the estimated

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Westwood Regional 45th reunion bash

The Westwood Regional High School Class of 1980 is gearing up for its 45th reunion with a full day of celebration set for Saturday, Sept. 20.

The festivities begin with a 1:30 p.m. tour of the high school, where classmates will meet at the main entrance to walk the halls they once roamed. The official reunion follows from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 79 Pascack Road in Washington Township.

Expect a full open bar, barbecue-style buffet, and a live DJ—plus all the laughter and reconnections youʼd hope for after four and a half decades.

annual total to $15,782.93.

Of that increase, just shy of $139 comes from the municipal levy, which funds the boroughʼs core services, including police, the Department of Public Works, parks, and Borough Hall operations.

Notably, the municipal share accounts for only 19.36% of the total tax bill.

According to borough officials, the increase was driven by

non-discretionary contractual obligations, including:

•$200,000 for solid waste disposal,

•$280,000 for police salaries and wages, and

•$186,000 for state-mandated health care costs.

These items total $666,000 in required 2025 budget increases.

Through a combination of revenue generation and budget tightening, Hillsdale was able to reduce the

impact of these obligations by more than $180,000.

Key savings included:

•$75,000 from River Vale joining Hillsdaleʼs paid ambulance service,

• $60,000 from merging municipal court operations with Westwood, and

• Additional savings from joining the Bergen County municipal fiber ring (still being calculated).

These steps reduced the boroughʼs uncovered obligation to $483,000, resulting in the final $139 increase to the municipal portion of the tax bill.

“We are committed to balancing our fiscal responsibilities with a strong focus on minimizing the burden to taxpayers,” said borough officials in a statement accompanying the tax bill breakdown.

An informal after-party will follow at the Dog House Saloon, just down the road at 270 Pascack Road.

Tickets are $75 per person, with payment requested by Sept. 1. Venmo payments can be sent to (201) 264-6263.

Checks should be made out to John Tesoriero and mailed to:

John Tesoriero

45 Church St. Apt D-1 Montclair, NJ 07042

For more information, email jbartolophoto@gmail.com.

You’ve got it made in the shade at Westwood library

Westwood Public Library Events into August. 49 Park Ave., westwoodpubliclibrary.org

Summer Reading

•Color Our World: All-ages summer reading program runs July 22–Aug. 23. Win prizes by participating!

Adult Programs

•Knitting & Crocheting Club: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. & Fridays at 11:30 a.m.

•Meditation Group: Tuesdays, 6–7 p.m.

•ASL Practice Group: Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.

• Scrabble Club: Tuesdays, 3–4 p.m. (Register for July 29, Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26)

•Garden Club: First Monday of each month at 7 p.m.

• Adult Craft Night – Needle Felted Landscapes: Monday, July 28, 7–8 p.m.

• Stroke Awareness Seminar:

Tuesday, July 29, 6–7 p.m.

•Sound Bath & Deep Relaxation: Monday, Aug. 4, 7–8 p.m.

• Family Feud Game Night (Adults/Teens 12+): Monday, Aug. 11, 7–7:30 p.m. & 7:45–8:15 p.m.

•Blood Pressure Screenings: Wednesday, Aug. 13, 10–11:30 a.m.

•Fresh Voices Book Group –The Bright Years: Tuesday, Aug. 19, 7–8 p.m.

•Morning Book Group – A Happier Life: Wednesday, Aug. 20, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

• Movie Matinee – The Alto Knights: Thursday, Aug. 21, 1–3 p.m. (Rated R)

•Adult Book Group – The Lion Women of Tehran: Thursday, Aug. 21, 7:30–8:30 p.m.

Children & Teen Programs

• Library Playgroup (0–5 years): Fridays at 10:30 a.m.

• Little Explorers: Cooking

DRIVING SCHOOL INC.

Lic. # 045-85N

• Highly Respected, Full ServiceDriving School

• Prep Lessons, 6 Hour Lessons & Road Tests

• Experienced State Licenced Instructors Call Now to Schedule Your Appointment!

with ShopRite (Ages 2–4): Tuesdays, July 29 & Aug. 4, 11:30 a.m.

•Jr. Friends Volunteer Training: Tuesday, July 29, 3:30–4:30 p.m.

•Nintendo Switch Club (Grades 6–8): Wednesdays, July 30, Aug. 13 & 27, 3:15–4:15 p.m.

•7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens (Grades 6–12): Thursdays, July 31, Aug. 7, 14 & 21, 3:30–4:30 p.m.

•Glow-in-the-Dark Slime Lab (Ages 9–11): Thursday, July 31, 3:45–4:30 p.m.

•Miss Nikkiʼs Movers & Shakers (Ages 0–4): Wednesdays, Aug. 6 & 13, 10:30 a.m. (Aug. 6 is full)

PARK RIDGE

•The Art of Bees & Beekeeping (Grades K–5): Wednesdays, Aug. 6 & 13, 3:45–4:30 p.m.

Musical Storytime in the Park (Veterans Memorial Park): Thursdays, Aug. 7 & 14, 10:30 a.m.

•Marshmallow Towers (Ages 5–8): Thursday, Aug. 7, 3:45–4:45 p.m.

•Teen Movie Trivia Night (Grades 6–12): Thursday, Aug. 7, 7–8:30 p.m.

•Little Explorers: Princess & Pirate Party (Ages 2–4): Tuesday, Aug. 12, 11:30 a.m. (Waitlist only)

•Make Your Own Junk Journal (Grades 8–12): Thursday, Aug. 14, 3:30–4:30 p.m.

•Pixel Art with Perler Beads

(Ages 9–11): Thursday, Aug. 14, 3:45–4:45 p.m.

•Teen Book Club – Ace of Shades (Grades 7–8): Monday, Aug. 18, 6–7 p.m.

• Author Visit: Drew Panckeri – Duck and Cat Ride the Riverboat (Ages 4+): Tuesday, Aug. 19, 3:45–4:15 p.m.

•Cooking with ShopRite (Grades K–3): Tuesday, Aug. 26, 3:45–4:15 p.m.

ESL Programs (via Literacy Volunteers of Pascack Valley)

•ESL Conversation Group: Thursdays, July 31, Aug. 7, 14, 21 & 28, 7–8:30 p.m. For more info: literacyvolunteerspv.org

PARK RIDGE POLICE DEPT.

SEEKS RESERVE OFFICERS

The Reserve Unit of the Park Ridge Police seeks new officers.

The Reserve Unit is committed to upholding the Constitution, community, and agency it serves. The unit relies upon the professionalism, dedication, and commitment of its officers to accomplish this task.

The vision of the Reserve Unit is to work as a vital part of the police department in building and maintaining the strong bonds of a healthy community policing program. This will be accomplished by providing all officers with the tools they need. In turn, the unit will assist the police department in meeting the challenges of reducing crime, creating a safer community, and improving the quality of life.

The core values of this Unit are: integrity, professionalism, commitment, moral character, mutual respect, and teamwork.

Applications to become a reserve officer in Park Ridge are being accepted until January. Applicants

should understand they are volunteering to contribute to the overall mission of the unit. Individuals are expected to be professional on and off duty and will be held accountable for their actions at all times. Before applying, make sure you and your family are ready for what will be required of you. In order to qualify you must be a citizen of the Unites States, live within five miles of Park Ridge (provided no program exists in your municipality), be at least 18, be in good physical and mental health, be at least a high school graduate, not have a criminal record or unsatisfactory driving record (background check required), successfully complete the next class. Classes held at night for three months), and expect to serve around 150 hours a year (includes training and duty time).

For more information and an application, call Sgt. Powers at (201) 391-5401 ext. 5235 or stop by police headquarters.

Local heroes, Meals on Wheels, fireworks,

Mayor Keith J. Misciagna has announced that Tammy Levinson, a tireless advocate for youth, veterans, and public wellness, has been named a July Fifth District Hometown Hero by U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer. Levinson was selected for the prestigious recognition based on her decades of service to Park Ridge and the greater Tri-Boro area.

We were delighted to get this news on our front page last week: “Higgins, Cirelli, Levinson Honored:Rep. Josh Gottheimer laids doers fromPascack Valley as Hometown Heroes; 21 shine in Fifth District.”

Misciagna said, “As director of the Municipal Alliance, Tammy has been a tireless advocate for substance abuse prevention and community wellness. She brings warmth, dedication, and an unwavering sense of purpose to everything she does. This recognition is well deserved.”

Levinson also serves as vice president of the Board of the TriBoro Volunteer Ambulance Corps, mentors students through the Girls State Program, and has been a committed Girl Scout Troop Leader since 2009, guiding scouts through Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award projects.

In addition, she is an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 153 and has played

key roles in organizing Patriot Day, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day observances.

Her other volunteer efforts span the Train Station Historical Preservation Board, the Park Ridge Fire Department Babysitting Clinic, Supporters of the Performing Arts (SPA), Meals on Wheels North Jersey, and the D.A.R.E. program.

“She truly embodies the spirit of public service,” Misciagna said.

Meals on Wheels Welcoming New Clients

Meals on Wheels North Jersey, based in Woodcliff Lake, is accepting new clients throughout the Pascack Valley and northern Bergen County. The nonprofit delivers hot meals and friendly visits to older adults and homebound individuals.

“If you or someone you know is recovering from illness or surgery, or facing challenges shopping or cooking, weʼre here to help,” said Janelle Larghi, executive director.

Enrollment is open; services can be initiated quickly. For more information or to sign up, visit mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org or call 201-358-0050.

Senior Activities

Residents age 55 and older

are encouraged to join the Golden Age Club, which offers engaging programs and community. For more information, contact club president Brenda Yanni at 201410-7981.

Summer Concert Series and Fireworks

The Park Ridge Summer Concert Series continues every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the covered pavilion behind Borough Hall. Upcoming acts include:

•July 31: Karaoke Night

•Aug. 7: The Big Ones

• Aug. 14: Rhyme or Reason

•Aug. 21: London Calling Concerts are held rain or shine. Admission is free.

The boroughʼs annual Concert & Fireworks Night is set for Saturday, Sept. 6 at 6 p.m. at the football field near the tennis courts. Fireworks will begin at dusk (approx. 7:45 p.m.). The rain date is Sept. 7. Attendees are asked to bring blankets and note that no food or pets are permitted on the field.

Volunteer Opportunities

•PKRG-TV, the boroughʼs broadcast network, is seeking volunteers to help film high school sports and community events. No experience necessary; training is provided. Email pkrg@parkridgeboro.com for details or visit

PKRGTV on YouTube.

• Tri-Boro Volunteer Ambulance Corps is recruiting volunteers. Call 201-391-2332 to learn more.

•Park Ridge Recreation Department invites middle and high school students to assist at local events and earn community service hours. Email recreation@parkridgeboro.com or call 201-573-1800 ext. 521.

The Tri-Boro Food Pantry Still in Need

The Tri-Boro Food Pantry continues to need donations. Items may be dropped off at the pantry on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9–11 a.m., or left at Borough Hall during normal business hours.

For special arrangements, call 201-573-9083.

WESTWOOD

CraftShow&AntiqueCornerreturnsAug.24

ANEXCITINGDAY of shopping and discovery awaits at the Craft Show & Antique Corner on Sunday, Aug. 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in beautiful Veterans Park, located at Broadway and Third Avenue in Westwood.

Sponsored by the Westwood Heritage Society and organized by P.J.ʼs Promotions, the event features more than 125 exhibitors offering a wide variety of handmade and vintage treasures.

The arts and crafts section will showcase pottery, floral arrangements, fall home decor, handcrafted jewelry, apparel, fiber goods, woodwork, stained glass, decorative gnomes, resin and pencil art, photography, items for pets and children, crochet animals, mixed media creations, and more. In the antique corner, shoppers will find vintage and collectible items, including antique and costume jewelry, primitives, prints, linens, silver, porcelain, ephemera, vintage toys, lighting, and other nostalgic finds.

For professional appraisals, respected expert Jon Felz, of Pascack Pressʼs “Ask the Appraiser,” will be on-site. Appraisals are $5 per item.

Felz is celebrated for his passion for antiques, love of history, and decades of experience uncovering the stories behind rare and unusual objects. Bring your heirlooms, vintage finds, or attic treasures for a professional evaluation. Whether itʼs a family jewel, a for-

Jon Felz of R.Z.M. Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. — author of Pascack Press’s “Ask the Appraiser” column —will be on hand at the Craft Show & Antique Corner on Sunday, Aug. 24, f rom 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Veterans Park, Westwood. Admission to the event is free; appraisals are $5.

HILLSDALE

•Aug. 1 at 1 p.m. Fitness Fun

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

•Aug. 2 at 2 p.m. KoverUp and Classic Rock Band. Registra-

•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

gotten painting, or a mysterious curio, Felzʼs insights will intrigue. His approachable style and curiosity make the experience enjoyable and educational for all ages. Appraisals are $5 per item. The event, sponsored by the Westwood Heritage Society and organized by P.J.ʼs Promotions, will be held rain or shine. Admission is free. Festival foods will be available. For more information, visit pjspromotions.com.

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

PV Triathlon returns Aug. 24 with high-energy fitness

The PV Tri is back. Team Next Level and presenting-sponsor Next Level Physio are gearing up for the return of the Pascack Valley Triathlon on Sunday, Aug. 24 at Stonybrook Swim Club.

The race begins at 7 a.m. and features an invigorating community experience for athletes of all levels—whether tackling their first race or chasing a personal best.

Participants will take on a 250meter swim (complete with the popular water slide start), a 10-mile bike ride, and a 5K run through

Hillsdaleʼs scenic streets. Racers can register as individuals or join a relay team, making the event ideal for friends, families, and fitness groups alike. Also returning is the crowdfavorite KidsʼSplash and Dash, now featuring a 100-meter swim and 1,000-meter run for children ages 7–12. The youth race kicks off after the main event. All participants must be able to swim in water at least 5 feet deep.

Racing for a Cause

Team Next Level and presenting sponsor

up

James Koh

More than a competition, the PV Tri supports three local nonprofit organizations making an impact:

•Girls on the Run NJ North

•The Police Unity Tour

•Helping Hand Food Pantry of Hillsdale

Registration and Discount

Athletes can register at www.raceforum.com/pvtri. Use promo code PPRESS10 to receive

10% off registration.

Community Support

Organizers extend their gratitude to this yearʼs sponsors:

•Next Level Physio

•Guerrilla Fitness Paramus

•Valley Bank

•Ninoʼs Pizza

•Runnerʼs House (River Vale)

•Addra Labs

•Phoenix Aquatic Club

• The Lukin Center

• Wegmans of Montvale

•Trader Joeʼs Westwood

Additional sponsors are welcome. For sponsorship inquiries, contact James Koh at james@nlphysio.com.

Whether racing, cheering from the sidelines, or contributing as a sponsor, participants are helping power a day of movement, connection, and generosity in Hillsdale and beyond.

Next Level Physio are gearing

for the return of the Pascack Valley Triathlon on Sunday, Aug. 24 at Stonybrook Swim Club.

Ramp progress, tax bill details, e-bike safety

Thereʼs plenty stirring in Montvale this summer, from key infrastructure progress and tax bill updates to a family favorite event and a renewed call for e-bike safety, according to Mayor Michael Ghassali.

Southbound Ramp Progressing

Toward September Opening

Work on the long-awaited Garden State Parkway southbound entrance ramp is moving steadily forward. Ghassali reports the current timeline aims for a

public opening in the second week of September. The longsought access point promises to ease congestion and enhance local travel.

Tax Bills Set to Mail

Week of Aug. 11

Montvaleʼs Tax Department reminds residents that Final 2025/Preliminary 2026 tax bills will be mailed starting the week of August 11. Payments are due by Sept. 8, with automatic withdrawals scheduled for Aug. 25.

Taxpayers may view and pay

their bills at montvale.org. Payments can also be dropped off at the Libraryʼs curbside dropbox or mailed to 12 DePiero Drive, Attn: Tax Collector. Borough Hall is open weekdays with extended Thursday hours and a half-day Friday. Questions? Reach out to Tax Collector Fran Scordo at (201) 391-5700 ext. 254.

Mayor Urges E-Bike Caution After Two Hospitalizations

With two serious e-bike crashes in Montvale over the past

month—one on Chestnut Ridge Road and another near Ghassaliʼs own neighborhood—the mayor is issuing a strong call for caution.

“Speeding on our narrow roads is an accident waiting to happen,” Ghassali said, urging residents to follow traffic laws and speak with children about safe riding.

Key reminders:

•Helmets are required for all riders under 17.

•E-bikes exceeding lowspeed limits may be classified as motorized and require a valid NJ license and registration.

• Sidewalk parking is allowed if pedestrian pathways remain unobstructed.

• Class 3 e-bikes require a DOT-certified helmet and a moped license (minimum age: 15).

• Helmets generally need replacing every five years due to wear and deterioration.

Touch a Truck Rolls In Aug. 27

The Montvale Police Department is bringing back its popular Touch a Truck event on Wednesday, Aug. 27 from 4 to 7 p.m. along Memorial Drive. The free family outing features fire trucks, police vehicles, ambulances, and construction equipment — plus

dunk tanks, Italian ice, balloon animals, and face painting.

Organizers say last yearʼs event drew hundreds and theyʼre expecting even more this summer. Kids are encouraged to climb aboard, honk horns, and meet local first responders in a relaxed, festive setting.

October Farm Fest

Ghassali also previewed an exciting fall event—with the date to be announced—at the boroughʼs Fairshare Farming Center. Montvale families can look forward to live music, line dancing, farming demos, a petting zoo, and a free barbecue, hosted by the mayor and council.

“This is our way of thanking residents for making Montvale a wonderful place to live,” Ghassali said.

Montvale Softball Classic

The MAL invites you to the Old Man Softball event, which will now be called the Montvale Softball Classic on Oct. 4 at La Trenta starting around 3 p.m. Organizers have a number of vendors prepped for children entertainment as well as the usual tournament of dad softball games. This is a great event to stop by and support.

Kids of all ages thrill to Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra in the park

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

RIVER VALE

The summer sounds of Strauss, movie magic, and classical favorites filled the air at Upper Grove Field on Saturday, June 28, as the Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra performed before a crowd of more than 200 residents.

The free outdoor concert, Strauss to the Silverscreen, marked the orchestraʼs second annual visit to River Vale—and a return engagement is already confirmed for next summer.

Presented by the Township of River Vale, the late-afternoon event invited residents to bring picnic blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the music under sunny

skies. Though it was a warm day, the early summer date offered a welcome break from the blistering heat of last yearʼs July concert.

“River Vale is so close to our home in Ridgewood, and the department is so easy to work with and enthusiastic,” said Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra president Jane Rodin. “Itʼs fun to bring our music to a new, varied audience that may not know about us, and to see children enjoying classical music.”

The family-friendly atmosphere included cotton candy and drinks available for purchase, and

many attendees stayed through the evening to enjoy the park and connect with neighbors.

Cultural Affairs Director Amy Salib called the event “a lovely day,” noting that the Ridgewood Symphonyʼs return speaks to how well the community has embraced this now-annual tradition. “Itʼs so nice to see families relaxing on the grass, hearing live music, and making memories together.”

The RSOʼs 2025–26 season launches this October at West Side Presbyterian Church in Ridgewood with Orchestral Fantasies, a

program featuring Rimsky-Korsakovʼs Scheherazade and Straussʼs Horn Concerto No. 1, performed by New Jersey Symphony Orchestra soloist Chris Komer.

Later concerts this season include a choral evening (Songs of Destiny), a March program pairing Mahlerʼs Titan with Rachmaninoffʼs beloved Piano Concerto No. 2, and a spring finale titled Celebrating Americaʼs 250 Years, featuring DvoёЗkʼs New World Symphony and a newly commissioned work.

Founded more than 80 years

ago, the RSO is a regionally based auditioned ensemble that showcases professional soloists and offers educational outreach through its Young Musicians Festival. The orchestra is supported by donations, ticket sales, and grants—including those that help make free community concerts possible.

To learn more about the orchestraʼs season or to donate, subscribe, or advertise, visit www.ridgewoodsymphony.org.

For more photos and video of this yearʼs River Vale concert, visit pascackpress.com.

The summer sounds of Strauss, movie magic, and classical favorites filled the air at Upper Grove Field on Saturday, June 28, as the Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra performed before a crowd of more than 200 residents. Courtesy photos.

500-plus downed trees snag brooks’ flow in four towns

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

If a tree falls into any of the brooks, rivers or tributaries that traverse Pascack Valleyʼs eight towns, who is responsible for removing it?

That answer, or at least opinion, depends on who you ask. And suffice it to say, the answer is often as murky as the waterways that any tree or large limb may fall into.

According to four recent drone studies of waterways in

Meals:

FROM PAGE 4

families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to ensure seamless coordination and care.

For more information or to sign up, visit http://mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org or call 201-3580050.

—State,

federal funds sought toward removal

Westwood, River Vale, Hillsdale and Washington Township, over 500 trees currently rest across various waterways that transect those towns, often blocking river flows during normal storm runoff and likely to cause or aggravate flooding during severe runoff events.

Recently, one more tree was added to the total, Westwood resident Lee Tremble told us, when a tree rooted on the River Vale side of Pascack Brook collapsed into the Pascack Brook, with its top

About Meals on Wheels North Jersey

Meals on Wheels North Jersey is a nonprofit organization committed to delivering fresh meals and warm connections to adults in need throughout northern Bergen County.

With community support and a dedicated team of volunteers, they aim to nourish both body and spirit.

branches resting on the Westwood side near Trembleʼs property.

Despite Trembleʼs repeated requests to local officials to remove the large tree blocking a section of the Pascack Brook behind his house, he said local officials in Westwood and River Vale, plus Bergen County, and Veolia North America, the water company that operates reservoir in Pascack Valley and New York State, had each turned aside his requests for help.

He wanted to know if we could help, or at least focus some attention on the issue. Tremble said he started contacting officials when the tree fell over into the brook, and called for weeks, and no one could or would help him to remove the tree. He said he was told it was his responsibility.

Torrential storm sweeps tree away

However, a torrential rain storm late on Monday, July 14, which dropped between 2 to 3 inches of rain on Westwood in a short period, and nearly seven inches in central New Jersey, washed the fallen tree away from his property and downstream, Tremble told us.

Although this solved Trembleʼs problem, it created a new problem for a downstream neighbor. Tremble, the former longtime owner of The Iron Horse in West-

wood, told us July 15, “Apparently the tree is gone, thanks to last nightʼs storm. Now it has moved downstream out of sight and (is) someone elseʼs problem,” texted Tremble.

However, he said the situation was frustrating due to no local officials, Veolia representatives, or public employees offering to help remove the tree and clear an obstruction.

Also, he was not happy that the problem had moved to a neighbor, and that the tree remained as an obstacle to the brookʼs flow.

He noted his town, Westwood, did a drone study that pointed out hundreds of trees in its brooks128 to be exact - and yet the study included no plans to help residents remove trees.

Funding

sought for tree removals

Karen Hughes, Westwood assistant borough administrator and deputy Office of Emergency Administrator coordinator, said the responsibility to remove downed trees resides with the property owner. However, she noted the borough was also seeking funding for a comprehensive “debris/tree removal program” in local waterways.

Hughes told us, “Prior to 2018, the Borough was able to contact the Bergen County Mosquito Commission to arrange for

the removal of trees from the brooks, regardless of whether it fell into the water from town property or private property. Unfortunately, in 2018 one of the Mosquito Commission employees was killed while performing this type of work ... After that, the Mosquito Commission discontinued the program,” she said.

Hughes said the Borough DPW does not currently have the manpower, training or equipment to remove trees from the brook. Additionally, she said, the NJDEP strictly regulates activity in and around waterways, which means trees canʼt just be removed.

Hughes said, “While ultimately the responsibility for downed trees resides with the property owner, the Borough recognizes that a comprehensive tree/debris removal program in the Pascack and Musquapsink would make sense.”

She addded, however, “Because the cost of removing all the downed trees from the brooks will be significant, the Borough applied through both Senator [Cory] Booker and [Fifth District] Congressman Josh Gottheimer for a Federal appropriation out of the 2025 budget. To date we have not heard back. We continue to seek grant opportunities.”

In a recent letter to the editor, Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo, wrote, “Unfortunately, due to the restructuring of FEMA, itʼs cur-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

PVHS Class of 1975

HILLSDALE

The Pascack Valley High School Class of 1975 will celebrate its 50th Reunion on Saturday, Oct. 18 at the DoubleTree by Hilton, located at 180 Route 17 South, Mahwah, N.J., beginning at 6 p.m. The 50th Reunion Committee has been planning throughout the past year to make this a truly memorable milestone. A full weekend of events is scheduled from Oct. 17–19, and classmates are invited to take part in any or all of the activities. Details about the weekend and hotel accommodations are available at pvhs75.com. The committee says, “We look forward to seeing many friends and classmates at the 50th celebration!”

Via Karen OʼReilly

New life for long-abandoned gas station site as borough approvesmultifamily/retail building

A long-abandoned former gas station at 126 Broadway is about to become a distant memory due to the Land Use Boardʼs July 22 approval of a retail and residential building on the site.

A three-story mixed-use multifamily-retail building that i ncludes eight apartments and space for several retail stores was approved unanimously by the board.

The approval came with conditions outlined during a nearly 2 ?-hour hearing July 22 before the board. The next Land Use Board meeting is Aug. 26, where members will likely vote on a resolution to memorialize those conditions.

After discussion, planners and the property owner/applicant, Martin Malek, and his attorney, John Molinelli, Price Meese Shulman & DʼArminio, agreed that the eight-unit apartment development would include two affordable units. It was agreed this would include one 3-bedroom and one 2-bedroom unit, for moderate- and low-income families.

Most of the half-dozen residents who asked questions and offered comments at the applica-

tionʼs first and only hearing opposed right-hand turns out of the development onto Campbell Avenue and dinged the property owner for not having maintained the site for years, and questioned whether increased retail and resident traffic, as well as the multifamily use would best fit the site.

Under a recent Master Plan revaluation, the property was rezoned for a combined multifamily-retail development, which the proposal provided. The site has long been a point of contention due to a deteriorating former gas station there.

P roperty owner Martin Malek said he proposed a retail structure around 2012 that did not win approval, and promised to work with the neighbors in constructing and operating the new mixed-use development.

Malek said he owned the site since 2007. Also a licensed professional engineer, he testified on his own behalf during the hearing.

“Itʼs going to look like what youʼve always wanted retail to look like along Broadway,” said Molinelli, introducing the application. The application had been postponed from May.

T he development includes 5,000 square feet of commercial retail space on the first floor, while the second and third floors feature eight apartments, which originally included three 1-bedroom units and five 2-bedroom units.

That may need to change to accommodate the required 3-bedroom affordable unit, said board planner David Troast, who noted affordable requirements offered “no wiggle room.”

Molinelli said the units in the back are duplexes with stairs to a third-floor, and all eight apartments there can access a rooftop deck with a view of the reservoir.

The development features parking along the rear and side of the building, the rear for apartment residents and side for retail customers. The site features 46 parking spaces; 42 are required under code.

No retail tenants have yet been confirmed, said the applicant.

The application sought four variances from code, including for parking only 17 feet from the roadway where 30 feet is required; parking spaces within

the required 30-foot setback; a variance for a 3-story building; and a variance for for 75% imperviousness where 50% impervious is permitted.

Documents for the application can be found on the Land Use

Board website by clicking on the 126 Broadway link. An archived meeting video can also be accessed on the borough website.

—Staff writer Michael Olohan

T he Hillsdale 50+ Club invites members and friends on a summer bus trip to the Forestburgh Playhouse in New Yorkʼs Catskills on Wednesday, Aug. 27.

Founded in 1947, Forestburgh Playhouse is the oldest continuously operating professional summer theater in New York State, featuring performances by seasoned actors, many with Broadway experience.

Attendees will have the chance to stroll the venueʼs beautiful gardens, enjoy a buffet lunch, and take in the comedy “The Cottage,” described by Entertainment Weekly as “a fresh and fiercely fun play thatʼs firing

on all cylinders.” The story unfolds in an English countryside cottage, where romantic plans go sideways when spouses arrive uninvited and hijinks ensue. The trip departs at 9:15 a.m. from the Smith School (grammar school), 1000 Hillsdale Ave.

The cost is $85 per person and includes transportation, lunch, and theater admission. Questions? Call Evelyn Pachner at (201) 666-7675. To reserve a spot, make checks payable to Hillsdale 50+ Club and mail to Evelyn Pachner, 157 Washington Ave., Hillsdale, NJ 07642.

Emerson 12U Softball: Undefeated KSL champs

The Emerson 12U softball team capped an outstanding summer with a commanding 7–0 victory over Montvale in the Kinderkamack Softball League (KSL) championship, completing an undefeated league season and cementing their place as KSL champions.

The Cavos went 12-0-1 in regular KSL play and 20-2-1 overall, with their only losses coming in the finals of two major summer tournaments—the Wyckoff Girls of Summer and the Ramsey Rumble—both against powerhouse Wyckoff 12U.

Their KSL record included two dramatic wins: one walkoff by Lucia DeSalvo vs. Hillsdale, and another by Kylie Mulhern vs. Oakland, helping define a season that spanned one-and-a-half grueling, hands-down triumphant months.

KSL Playoff Run

Emersonʼs regular-season tie, athrilling 5–5 contest, had come against Montvale—setting the stage for an inevitable rematch in the championship. Montvale reached the final by defeating River Vale and Hillsdale, while

Trees:

FROM PAGE 12

rently unknown when, or even if, the grant process will proceed.

Hillsdaleʼs Mayor [Michael] Sheinfield is working with Congressman Gottheimerʼs office to see if the Boswell recommendations might be funded as regular order appropriations in the next federal budget cycle,” he wrote.

Also, Arroyo wrote, a multi-

Emerson, earning a first-round bye, edged a tough Oradell team 4–2 in the semifinal.

In that semifinal win, Miranda Gray (2-for-2, walk, 2 RBIs, run), Hailey Carcich (2-for-3, 2 runs, 1 stolen base), and Lucia DeSalvo (1-for-2, RBI) led the offense. Pitching carried the day,with Lexi Perez and Alexa Palko holding Oradell to just 2 hits, combining for 9 strikeouts.

The Championship Game

The final was held Thursday, July 24, under the lights at Westvale Park in Westwood. Emerson struck early: Kylie Mulhern stole

jurisdiction “hazard mitigation scoping project” was submitted by Westwood to the state Office of Emergency Management to help fund, at minimum, the de-snagging of waterways in the four towns — Westwood, River Vale, Washington Township and Hillsdale.

Arroyo said, “Wemay have to seek funding for a reduced scope and phase in the suggested remediations, starting with de-snagging the waterways in the four towns, although NJ (Office of Emergency Management) was very supportive of the holistic approach weʼd pre-

home to open the scoring, and offensive contributions poured in from across the roster.

Miranda Gray (1-for-2, 2 runs, walk, stolen base), Lucia DeSalvo (1-for-2, triple, 2 runs, 2 RBIs), Olivia Kim (1-for-1, run, walk), and Lexi Perez (2 RBIs) all played key roles at the plate. On the mound, Perez and Palko combined for a one-hitter, each recording 3 strikeouts. Defensively, Emerson was flawless—zero errors in the title game.

Season Highlights

Every player made her mark during the season:

sented.”

In total, slightly over 500 trees obstruct portions of at least three major waterways traversing four Pascack Valley towns, with 128 downed trees alone in Westwood, according to recent drone studies.

Westwood drone study not made public

When Pascack Press recently filed a public records request for the Westwood drone brook studycompleted in summer 2024 - it was denied by the clerk, who cited the drone study as “deliberative and contemplative under the state (Open Public Records Act.)”

She told us that the mayor and council, borough administrator and borough attorney “are still

• Taylor Zeller led the team in hits (22) and batting average (.431).

•Jackie Giella tied for most runs scored (24), led with 29 stolen bases, and logged 33 strikeouts in 33 innings pitched.

•Lila Manning had 2 hits, 1 RBI, and 2 runs in the regular season finale vs. Hillsdale to secure the top seed.

•Katie Tucker went 2-for-3 with a run scored in the Ramsey Rumble final vs. Wyckoff.

•Juliette Rose Connolly went 1-for-1 with a walk, 1 RBI, and 3 runs vs. River Edge; she finished the season with 26 strikeouts over

reviewing the study, therefore making it deliberativeand contemplative.”

However, the other three towns who conducted drone studies — Township of Washington, River Vale, and Hillsdale — have each publicly released their Boswell drone reports to residents and Pascack Press.

Resident: See something, say something

“I sawsomething and said something,” Tremble told Pascack Press, noting officials turned a deaf ear to helping him remove the downed tree. He said one focus of the drone studies was “de-snagging” or removing downed trees from brooks and streams to

For the win! Coaches’ row (top): Mike Carcich (head coach), Jenn Palko (asst. coach), Jon Gray (asst. coach), Angelo DeSalvo (asst. coach). Players standing: Alexa Palko, Alexia Perez, Juliette Rose Connolly, Jackie Giella, Miranda Gray, Katie Tucker, Gabi Aguilar. Players kneeling: Hailey Carcich, Taylor Zeller, Lila Manning, Olivia Kim, Lucia DeSalvo, Kylie Mulhern, Lily Polvere. Not pictured: player Anaya Modi and assistant coach Tom Mulhern. Courtesy photo

21 innings.

•Gabi Aguilar was 1-for-1 with 2 runs scored in the Ramsey Rumble semifinal vs. Jefferson. Lily Polvere delivered a 1-for-3, 2RBI, 2-run performance vs. Lyndhurst in the Wyckoff tournament.

•Anaya Modi helped break open a regular-season game vs. Westwood with a clutch 1-for-1, 2-RBI effort.

The Cavosʼremarkable summer run was built on fundamentals: consistent pitching, tight defense, and balanced offense from a deep, talented roster. The teamʼs growth and spirit were evident every inning. Staff report based on team recap

enhance flow and reduce flooding.

He wondered who might begin to step up and help remove the hundreds of downed trees affecting Pascack Valleywaterways.

Tremble said a representative of Veolia North America, which manages a system of reservoirs serving 800,000 customers with potable water including Oradell Reservoir and Woodcliff Lake Reservoir, said that removing downed trees was not their responsibility.

Many Pascack Valley town streams flow into Veolia reservoirs, replenishing the reservoirs. Veolia spokesperson Debra

CONTINUED ON PAGE 33

Registration is open for the Fourth Annual Brookside Bazaar, a community craft fair and vendor market taking place Saturday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center.

Established as a local favorite and a festivekickoff to the holiday shopping season, the Brookside Bazaar welcomes artists, crafters, retailers, creatives, and entrepreneurs from across Bergen County and beyond. The event has drawn more than 30 unique vendors and over 400 shoppers

and the

Ele-

mentary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). Proceeds from the event benefit Brooksideʼs PTO, helping fund student activities, educational enrichments, and classroom equipment. An early bird registration rate of $95 per table is available through Sept. 5. Vendor registration will close on Oct. 3. Follow @BrooksideBazaar on Facebook and Instagram for updates, vendor highlights, and sponsorship opportunities.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Hermitage Outdoor Art & Craft Show Aug. 9

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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:

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• Pottery and ceramics

•Jewelry and fiber art

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•Resin and mandala art

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from

•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.

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The annual Hermitage Outdoor Art & Craft Show returns

9,

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the picturesque, tree-shaded front lawn of the Hermitage Museum

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RETURNOF SUMMER MOVIES, CONCERTSINTHE PARK

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 l ive 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, Aug. 1 – Inside Out 2 (PG)

• Wednesday, Aug. 6 – Captain America: Brave New World (PG-13)

• 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, Aug. 7 – Bon

Journey (Bon Jovi & Journey Tribute)

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

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

• Tuesday, Aug. 19 – SteppinʼOut (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.

FIND THEM IN OUR

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Works:

FROM PAGE 1

Pascack Press. “The ideas, mistakes, and lessons we learn are made through hands-on experiences. Our team works together to build a robot we are very proud of.”

But ask a Pi-oneer what theyʼre most proud of, and theyʼre likely to talk about something else entirely:A rich and very human throughline of service to others.

Beyond the Build: Helping Others Play

Led by the Adaptive Physical Education Device Project Group, the team has spent multiple seasons developing a robotic system designed to help children with physical challenges participate in sports.

That initiative is now making a difference hundreds of miles away: the current version of the device is being used in adaptive

physical education classes at the University of South Carolina, where college students have incorporated it into their curriculum.

Feeding the Community: Powered by Outreach

The Community Outreach Project Group keeps the Pi-oneers engaged far beyond the build space. This year, the group expanded long-running partnerships with the Tri-Boro Food Pantry and the Hillsdale Helping Hand Food Pantry. The InfoTech Subdivision redesigned the Hillsdale pantryʼs website (helpinghandfoodpantry.com), improving access to local food resources.

Meanwhile, the team built and maintained food donation bins at Kings and ShopRite of Hillsdale, where generous customers donated more than 8,000 pounds of food last year. And this fall, theyʼll return to ShopRite for their Second Annual Food Pantry Day, part of the storeʼs Partners in Caring campaign.

(See related stories on our website, PascackPress.com.)

They’re the Pascack Pi-oneers, Team 1676 in the FIRST Robotics Competition, and this spring marked their 21st year designing, building, and competing at the highest levels of student-led robotics. Representing the Pascack Valley Regional High School District, they hail from Hillsdale, River Vale, Montvale, and Woodcliff Lake. Team photo.

Recycling and Sustainability: Local Drives, Growing Impact

Environmental responsibility is a growing part of the Pi-oneersʼ mission. The Sustainability Project Group launched a Prescription Medicine Bottle Recycling Drive this year to keep bottles out of landfills. What started as a local effort now includes receptacles at Bergen County Housing Authority sites in River Vale, Montvale, Dumont, and Hillsdale House.

The team also joined forces with the Environmental Clubs at Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills High Schools to promote recycling through educational posters and plastic bottle collection drives.

Safety and Wellness

The Safety Subdivision, in collaboration with the Pascack Hills Medical Club, hosted the teamʼs annual Red Cross Blood Drive this past November.

This year, Safety Subdivision leader Aanya launched Wellness Week, which she said “is a fun way to remind our students that although school can get stressful, it is important they take care of themselves and prioritize their mental health, especially during end-of-year testing.”

With support from the Guidance Department, faculty, and administration, the team coordinated daily activities throughout the week—putting self-care front and center in the high school experience.

Building Bridges Around the World

Through the International Project Group, the Pi-oneers actively mentor and collaborate with robotics teams from around the globe. This season, they worked with students from South Africa (in partnership with the Sakhikamva Foundation), India,

Turkey, and Haiti—offering virtual support and even welcoming teams into their own build space. Three of their international mentees qualified for the FIRST World Championship, and many Pi-oneers say watching those teams succeed was a season highlight.

Looking Ahead

The Pi-oneers are grateful for the ongoing support of local families, schools, and businesses. But sustaining this level of impact—locally and globally— requires outside investment. The team depends on grants and donations to meet its goals, and is actively seeking new sponsors.

To learn more about the team or become a donor, visit team1676.com/sponsor-us. You can follow the teamʼs journey on social media or explore the broader world of student robotics at firstinspires.org.

FIRST Team 1676, Pascack Pi-oneers, then in their 21st year designing, building, and competing at the highest levels of student-led robotics. They find time to help those in need in the Pascack Valley and well beyond. September 2024 photo at ShopRite by John Snyder.

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WOODCLIFF LAKE

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.

band.

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

•Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 7

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

p.m. — Broadway Cabaret Night, featuring local Broadway talent

•Wednesday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m. — Family Movie Night

Special Friday Night Show

•Friday, Aug. 15 from 5:30-8:30 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 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.

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

WEEKEND MASS SCHEDULE

DAILY MASS

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. Photo by Mike Olohan

the next step in protecting that legacy.

At its July 22 meeting, the Borough Council unanimously approved a $54,000 professional services contract with Connolly & Hickey Historical Architects to prepare state and national historic nominations and a historic preservation plan for the building, also known as the J.J. Blauvelt House, at 13 West Grand Avenue.

Half the funding comes from the boroughʼs Open Space Trust Fund, and half from a county Open Space grant, according to Resolution 161-2025.

The borough originally acquired the house in November 2021.

Council President Timothy Lane and members Chris Roche, Dieter Koelling, and Theresa Cudequest voted in favor of the contract. Councilmembers Annmarie Russo-Vogelsang and Douglas Arendacs were absent.

Community use envisioned Borough administrator Joseph Voytus credited Montvaleʼs Historic Preservation Committee with playing a lead role in advocating for the buildingʼs designation, restoration, and future re-use.

Voytus said listing the house on state and national historic reg-

Resolution 161-2025 notes that the Octagon House “has great historic significance to the Borough and is one of only a small number of surviving ‘Octagon’ style houses popularized by Orson S. Fowler.”

isters could help secure grant funding—both for immediate preservation work and long-term reactivation.

He noted that while the buildingʼs exterior architectural features will be preserved, its interior use is still to be determined.

Ideas floated have included meeting space, borough satellite offices, or reading rooms, among others.

According to the contract, the preservation plan will cost $34,200, while preparation of

New Jersey and National Register of Historic Places nominations will cost $19,800.

Resolution 161-2025 notes that the Octagon House “has great historic significance to the Borough and is one of only a small number of surviving ʻOctagonʼ style houses popularized by Orson S. Fowler.” The structure was designated historic at the local level in 1997 by the Historic Preservation Commission, and—as the resolution also points out—“can be seen on the Boroughʼs logo.”

A rare 1850s relic

According to a history prepared by Connolly & Hickey, the J.J. Blauvelt Octagon House dates to the mid-19th century

“In the late 1850s, John J. Blauvelt Jr. had an Octagon style house built to replace his Colonial-era farmhouse in Montvale. The dwelling was made of gravel wall construction, a method popularized by Orson S. Fowler in his 1853 book ʻA Home for All, or the Gravel Wall and Octagon Mode of Building.ʼThe building is two

stories with an exposed basement and a belvedere. While it served as a house for much of its history, the building has also been utilized as a hotel, a restaurant, and offices for a limousine company,” the proposal states.

It continues: “This has resulted in the interior layout of the first floor to have changed over time, while the second floor has mostly retained its original layout. Other changes that have been made include a partial removal of the wrap-around porch, replacement of the windows, and the addition of a basement entrance. The Borough of Montvale purchased the building in 2021, and it is one of two known surviving examples of the Octagon style in Bergen County.”

The architects write that Montvale is pursuing formal listing “to bring official recognition to the building for its historical and architectural value and a greater understanding of architectural trends and styles in the mid19th century at a height of Americaʼs economic expansion.”

They add: “Listing would also make the Borough eligible to apply for historic preservation grants from the Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund and the New Jersey Historic Trust. Connolly & Hickey shall prepare the nomination and all attachments according to the requirements of the National Park Service and submit the nomination to the NJHPO for review and consideration. The services provided shall include archival research, documentation of existing conditions, photographic documentation, preparation of the nomination forms, presentation to the Review

Learn, practice sign language WESTWOOD

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 from 11 a.m. to noon.

This informal, drop-in group welcomes participants of all experience levels — from complete

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.

Board, and any subsequent revisions and edits for listing.”

A house with stories

In a 2017 Back In Time column for this newspaper, Pascack Valley Historical Society President Kristin Beuscher chronicled the propertyʼs evolution:

“Starting in the 1830s, the land came into the ownership of a man named John J. Blauvelt Jr. In the 1850s, he decided to replace a pre-Revolutionary War sandstone house which had long stood on the grounds with a new home of contemporary design.”

Beuscher wrote that Blauvelt was “reportedly a friend of one colorful character named Orson S. Fowler, who in 1848 had written a book, ʻA Home for All,ʼespousing the benefits of octagonal buildings.”

“Fowler wasnʼt actually trained in architecture. In fact, he was a noted lecturer on phrenology (a pseudoscience popular in the 19th century that claimed the shape of oneʼs skull can be indicative of character traits). Nevertheless, Fowler convinced his friend to build in the octagonal style,” she explained.

She concluded:

“While Fowlerʼs status as an architect was self-styled, there must have been something to his idea: More than 160 years later, the Octagon House is still standing and is the most famous structure in Montvale.”

And not just famous—it was also home to three Montvale mayors, she noted: Garret Hering (mayor 1898–1900 and Blauveltʼs son-in-law), Jules Schwenker (mayor 1942–1945), and George Huff (mayor 1946–1959). The Huffs operated a restaurant there in the 1950s.

Also at the meeting…

The council awarded a professional services contract to Colliers Engineering & Design to update Montvaleʼs tax maps, in advance of a municipal revaluation likely to occur in 2026, according to Voytus.

Borough Attorney Dave Lafferty told the council he is working on bid specifications to hire an operator for the boroughʼs soon-to-be-acquired 8.4 acres of former DePiero farmland.

Montvale is expected to take possession of the property in late August, and Voytus said a town-wide celebration of the acquisition may be planned for this fall.

The Montvale Seniors will host a three-day, two-night trip to the Connecticut River Valley from Sept. 24 to 26, featuring a scenic Essex Steam Train and Riverboat excursion.

The package includes two nights' lodging, two breakfasts, two dinners, and visits to Olde

Mistick Village, Mystic Seaport Museum, the Connecticut River Museum, and the Florence Griswold Museum. Highlights include a 2.5-hour narrated steam train and riverboat tour through the picturesque Connecticut countryside. Rates per person are $534 for

triple occupancy, $549 double, and $718 single. Cancellation insurance is available and strongly recommended. For more information or to reserve, contact Rosemarie Kelly at Montvale Seniors, 56 Erie Ave., Montvale, NJ 07645, or call (201) 391-8718.

Staying on purpose, for the win

Hillsdale EMT Jim Clark, 75, rocks his third Cross Triathlon national title

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

LOCALENDURANCE athlete

Jim Clark, 75, has once again proven that age is no barrier to excellence.

On July 13, Clark claimed first place in his age group at the USA Triathlon Off-Road (Cross) Triathlon National Championship at Hagg Lake in Oregon. It marks his third national title, all earned since turning 65.

The grueling event—part of a discipline known internationally as Cross Triathlon—ordinarily features a 1,500-meter open-water swim, a 30-kilometer mountain bike course, and a 10-kilometer trail run. Due to course logistics, this yearʼs championship featured slightly shorter distances, but certainly no less intensity.

Clarkʼs performance in Oregon adds to a remarkable résumé: the 83rd triathlon of his career, the 42nd off-road event, and a dramatic narrow victory over a persistent challenger.

“Tom Rhodes [an endurance sports machine in his own right]

Jim Clark competes in the bike and trail run segments of the 2024 USA Triathlon Off-Road National Championship at Hagg Lake, Oregon, for his third national title. Jim Clark photos.

came up behind me on a paved section of the run, and I thought I was in trouble,” Clark told Pascack Press last week. “But Iʼm a pretty good trail runner, and when we got back to the dirt and

rocks, I was able to run away from him. I really didnʼt want to travel over 2,000 miles and not come away a champion.”

He edged out Rhodes by just 60 seconds in a race that lasted over two hours.

A late start and a fast ascent

Clark began racing triathlons in 2005, at age 56. He took a special interest in the off-road variation—less predictable, more rugged terrain—around 2012, when he was 61.

The format, known as Cross Triathlon, distinguishes itself from the more familiar road triathlon by emphasizing trail running and mountain biking.

Races are staged in natural environments, often on hilly, rocky, or wooded terrain, and par-

Search on for Owls of 1975 ahead of 50th

The Park Ridge High School Class of 1975 is gearing up for its 50th reunion, and organizers are asking for the communityʼs help in reaching missing classmates.

The reunion will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. at The Saloon in Pearl River, N.Y.

All members of the class are invited, and organizers are hoping for a strong turnout to celebrate five decades of memories and connection.

“Weʼre looking forward to a joyful evening of reminiscing, laughter, and reconnection,” said Karen Koehler, who is helping coordinate the event. “But we need help reaching everyone— after all, itʼs been 50 years!”

Class members—or anyone with contact information—are encouraged to reach out to Donna at dlzolla@yahoo.com.

Organizers are especially hoping to locate the following classmates:

Raymond Abate

Jane Ambrosino

Garry Alourdas

Brian Benkert

Karen Borgen

Mike Burrows

Brenda Clark

Michael Dʼerrico

Doug Egli

Bill Flisher

Bernadette Gennone

Ron Gibson

Steven Jacobsen

James Kennedy

Wendy Kerber

Kathy Leonardi

Carol Liebrich

Sandy Levine (Coburn)

Theresa Loughran

Sheila Maloney

Linda Meister

ticipants must navigate not only their endurance limits but also the technical challenges of off-road cycling and uneven trails.

Clark won his first national title in 2019, competing in the 65–69 age group at the champi-

PUBLIC NOTICE

James Mesevage

Janet Nelson

Jill Newhoff (Smale)

Kathleen O'Connor

Ruthann Owen

Eileen Peirano

Bonnie Petterson

Kathleen Schultz

Nancy Short

Mark Smith

Merle Sensing

Graham Taylor

Lillian Thomas

Emily Travers

Glenn Vallespir

Deborah Weston (Hunter)

Linda Wrobleski

If youʼre in touch with any of the folks above—or are one of them—please consider reaching out to help make this golden reunion a success.

onships in Waco, Texas. He followed it up with a second win in 2021 (70–74), and now adds a third in the 75–79 bracket, making him a multi-decade champion in the sport.

When heʼs not on the racecourse, Clark is still going the extra mile—this time in service to others.

For the past three years, heʼs been a volunteer EMT with the Hillsdale Volunteer Ambulance Service, putting in an average of 120 hours per month on call. He also serves the agency as secretary, helping keep operations running smoothly while responding to medical emergencies across the community.

Clark, a lawyer most of his working life, is backed by Nancy, his wife of 42 years.

“These days, outside of EMT and training for triathlon, life is focused on visiting and frequently caring for three of my four grandchildren: Everett, 7, Elara, 4, and Serena, 2, who live in River Vale. Their mom is my daughter, Katie, a pediatric neuro-oncologist. My other daughter, Christina, a social

Pursuant to NJAC 7:30 (NJDEPPesticide Control Regulations), Veolia Water NJ may apply algaecide to the Oradell, Lake Tappan and Woodcliff Lake Reservoirs. In order to control algal populations, using any of the following products; Hydrogen Peroxide as Greenclean Liquid 5.0 (EPA# 70299-19) copper sulfate, as Quimag Quimicos Aguila Copper Sulfate Crystal (EPAReg. No. 73385-1) or EarthTec (EPAReg. No. 64962-1), from April 1st 2025 to October 1st, treatments will be applied by boat on an as- needed basis. Applications are conducted under the supervision of Veolia employee, Matthew Cerami Watershed Manager, NJDEPPesticide Applicator License No. 63286B. For further information (regarding public safety and exact treatment dates), please contact Matthew Cerami, 200 Lake Shore Drive, Haworth NJ 07641 (Ph: 973-508-2759).

For emergencies, call the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System at 800-764-7661. For routine health inquiries, call the National Pesticide Information Center at 800-858-7378.

Pesticide Control Program telephone number 609-984-6568. This number for pesticide regulation information, pesticide complaints, and health referrals.

Upon request, the pesticide applicator or applicator business shall provide a resident with notification at least 12 hours prior to the application, except for Quarantine and Disease Vector Control only, when conditions necessitate pesticide applications sooner than that time. The address for the applicator employer’s web site is https://mywater.veolia.us/.

Jim Clark, in blue cap, marches n the Hillsdale Memorial Day parade with other members of HVAS. Courtesy photo.

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.

DEAN’S LIST HONORS AT TUFTS UNIVERSITY

Tufts University recently announced the deanʼs list for spring 2025. Deanʼs list honors at Tufts University require a semester grade point average of 3.4 or greater. Making the grade from the Pascack Valley:Jack Berg, Class of 2025, of River Vale; Kieran Doody, Class of 2028, of Hillsdale; Allaine Lara, Class of 2029, of Westwood; Jonathan Mathew, Class of 2027, of Montvale; Geri

Tabbachino, Class of 2025, of Emerson; and Brian Winters, Class of 2026, of River Vale.

BERG, ROSALES GRADUATE TUFTS UNIVERSITY

More than 2,800 students across all schools graduated from Tufts University on May 18 during a university-wide commencement ceremony that featured the awarding of honorary degrees to a number of academic, business, and civic leaders making a positive impact on the world. From the Pascack Valley:Jack Berg of River Vale graduated summa cum laude with a degree in computer science (BSCS); Raymond Rosales of Montvale graduated summa cum laude with a degree in computer science (BS).

BAZZANELLA, CELLI, CLASON, URBAN MAKE DEAN’S LIST AT ROGER WILLIAMS UNIVERSITY

Select students have been named to the Spring 2025 Deanʼs List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Deanʼs List that semester. From the Pascack Valley:Sophia Bazzanella of the Township of Washington; Angelo Celli of Montvale; Matthew Clason of Westwood; and Elizabeth Urban of Westwood made the list. Congratulations!

O’DELL GRADUATES ROGER WILLIAMS UNIVERSITY

Roger Williams University is proud to announce that Hayley OʼDell of the Township of Washington graduated with a B.G.S. in social science in May as part of the Class of 2025. Roger Williams

Next mission AIT, as Hillsdale’s Svorec on approach to Airborne

DESTINY SVOREC, a recent Pascack Valley High School graduate, has completed basic training after enlisting in the U.S. Army earlier this year. Now standing taller, marching with purpose, and holding her head high, she exemplifies pride and dedication to her country

Her mom, Shane, tells us “Destiny did more than survive boot camp; she thrived. One of only three women in her company to crush the initial physical assessment, she also qualified for her marksmanship on the first attempt, earning the rank of sharpshooter ”

A proud member of Third Platoon, Destiny helped earn multiple challenge flags through outstanding

performance.

The culminating test of basic training is The Forge, a grueling 96hour field training exercise designed to push recruits to their limits through combat and logistical scenarios.

Trainees ruck nearly 50 miles, ration food, and perform under extreme sleep deprivation, heat, and physical strain. Destiny endured every challenge — sunburns, exhaustion, and pain — with strength and resolve. She graduated July 24 from Fort Leonard Wood.

Next, she heads to Advanced Individual Training (AIT) as a Horizontal Construction Engineer, followed by Airborne School.

University is a comprehensive university with a liberal arts core and professional programs, with campuses on the coast of Bristol and in the state capital of Providence, R.I.

BIENER MAKES DEAN’S LIST AT PURCHASE COLLEGE

Evan Biener of Hillsdale has been named to Purchase Collegeʼs Deanʼs List for the Spring 2025 semester. Biener is yet undeclared. Purchase College, part of the State University of New York (SUNY) network of 64 universities and colleges, was founded in 1967 by Governor Nelson Rockefeller.

DEMBOWSKI, EICHNER, MALOCHA MAKE

SPRING DEAN’S LIST AT UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA

University of Tampa has honored 2,340 students who were named to the deanʼs list for the spring 2025 semester. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher to be eligible for the deanʼs list. Among them: Anya Dembowski of Hillsdale earned deanʼs list honors as a sophomore, majoring in management (BS); Matthew Eichner of Hillsdale earned deanʼs list honors as a freshman, majoring in Finance (BS); Jessica Malocha of Hillsdale earned deanʼs list honors as a freshman, majoring in political science (BA).

MAYER, VOGT ROCK SPRING DEAN’S LIST AT HAMILTON

Two local residents were named to the Deanʼs List at Hamilton College for spring 2025: Alexis Mayer of Woodcliff Lake and Hannah Vogt of Westwood. Mayer, a rising senior majoring in neuroscience, is a graduate of Pascack Hills High School. Vogt, a May graduate, majored in psychology at Hamilton.

SALADINO, KRONER

GRADUATE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON

9,424 students received degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison on May 9–10, including students from our area. Hillsdaleʼs Kaila Saladino, School of Education, Bachelor of Science health promotion and health equity, graduated with distinction. Woodcliff Lakeʼs Danny Kroner, School of Business, Bachelor of Business Administration, business: accounting, graduated with distinction.

ANNA CORBO EARNS SUNY CORTLAND PRESIDENT’S LIST

HONORS

Anna Corbo of Westwood was one of 1,187 SUNY Cortland students who earned Presidentʼs List honors for the spring 2025 semester. Corbo is majoring in media production. To qualify for the Presidentʼs List,

Courtesy photo

Town picnic brings the fun under – finally – blue skies

AFTERARAIN-SOAKED false

start mid-June, the sun smiled on the annual Park Ridge Town Picnic, held July 12 behind Borough Hall.

Hosted by the Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee, the event brought together families, friends, and neighbors for a day of laughter, live music, and community spirit.

Kids bounced their way through new inflatable rides, belted out tunes at karaoke, and soaked up face painting and balloon twisting while the grownups chilled at the craft beverage tent. Community vendors lined the field, and the Fire Department and Police DARE unit rolled in to impress.

Marcʼs Deli fired up a delicious BBQ spread, El Tajin served up street corn and tacos, and Flynnʼs Deli ice cream truck kept things cool. Park Ridge seniors were treated to a special surprise courtesy of the Rec Committee.

“Weʼre so grateful to everyone who helped make the day such a success,” said Recreation Director Liz Falkenstern,

“After the rainout in June, it was extra special to see the community come together and have such a great time,” she said.

Alumni:

Ridge Police Reserves and PKRGTV for keeping things safe and capturing the fun on film.

More than 50 local businesses and organizations lent their support to help make this event possible:

atric Dentistry, Park Ridge Animal Hospital, Am Tree Nursery School, The Four Leaves, Brand Bar & Beverages, Dunkin/Baskin Robbins, Whalen & Ives, Graphically Speaking, and B & M Market.

MANDILE NAMED TO ADELPHI UNIVERSITY’S 2025 SPRING DEAN’S LIST

Emersonʼs Giada Mandile, majoring in marketing at Adelphi University, has taken her place on the Spring 2025 Deanʼs List. Mandile was among a select group of outstanding students recognized by Adelphiʼs deans of Arts and Sciences, Education and Health Science, Business, Nursing and Public Health, Social Work and Psychology for superior academic performance.

Big thanks go out to the dedicated Rec volunteers, including Paul Wharton, Rob Nicolich, Mike Raia, Paul Scarduffa, Rosemary Happ, Laurie Wharton, Jason Roth, Doug Salvi, Maureen Howell, Austin Baxter, Lori Bettini, Carolee Chirico, Sam Bermudez, Greg Hoffman, Rob Metzdorf, Will Fenwick, and Mike Mintz.

Special thanks to the Park

KIM MAKES PRESIDENTIAL HONOR LIST AT NYIT

Sarah Kim of Park Ridge has been named to the spring 2025 Presidential Honor List at New York Institute of Technology. A nonprofit, independent, private, and nonsectarian institute of

Carolee Chirico, Keller Williams Valley Realty, Park Ridge Orthodontics, The Spine & Health Center of NJ, Family of Caring Healthcare System, Golub Dental Group, TD Bank, Park Ridge Chiropractic, Premier Martial Arts (Park Ridge), Neglia Engineering Group, The Ridge Diner, 103 Prime, Woodcliff Lake Veterinary Hospital, Pet Supplies Plus (Hillsdale), Perry M. Petrillo Architects, Marcʼs Deli & Pizza, TGA Premier Sports, Valley National Bank, Enhance Dentistry, Aeon Fitness & Gymnastics, Lidl US, El Tajin, All Dental Solutions, Jewelerʼs Workbench, Pesto Italian Bistro, Ramaswamy Orthodontics, Sq Pizza, Vozza Agency, Park Avenue Hair, Optimal Health Family Chiropractic, Mania Hair Studio, Dave OʼDonovan Excavator, Uncle Frankʼs Barber Shop, The Park Steak House, Dan Antokal, The Montville Financial Group, Lollipop Nursery School, Dart Computer, Becker Funeral Home, Dr. Linda Wells, DC, Smile Stop Pedi-

higher education founded in 1955, the university welcomes nearly 8,000 students worldwide. The university has campuses in New York City and Long Island, N.Y.; Jonesboro, Ark.; and Vancouver, British Columbia, as well as programs around the world.

Next year marks the 55th anniversary of the Park Ridge Town Picnic—and plans are already underway for a celebration to remember!

Want to join the fun behind the scenes? Volunteer for the Recreation Committee by calling (201) 573-1800 x521 or emailing recreation@parkridgeboro.com.

Liz Falkenstern photos

Park Ridge Councilmen Goldsmith, Hoffman, and Fenwick at the town picnic July 12.

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) 505-0472.

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

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

ERIC KOHLMEIER

Summer:

FROM PAGE 1

“Most of these girls have been playing together since T-ball in kindergarten, and itʼs been a joy to watch them grow— not just as athletes, but as individuals,” Zoelle said. “Their strong bond and shared experience have built a winning tradition that they'll carrywith them into high school, as many will continue on to Pascack Hills.”

According to the teamʼs recap, Montvale scored five runs on six hits with five RBIs. Pitcher Nina Tuli delivered a completegame performance, going seven innings and allowing just three runs on seven hits with seven strikeouts and one walk. She also scored two of Montvaleʼs five runs.

Madison Higgins led the offense with three RBIs on two

hits, while Jaelyn Pawlyk added a triple and two RBIs. Gabriella Marino, Addyson Zoelle, and Penelope Ramm also scored, with Marino and Tuli each adding a hit.

In a fun twist, this yearʼs league champions received Super Bowl-style rings in place of the usual medals or trophies. “The league was creative this year,” said coach Richard Higgins.

A Winning Legacy

This championship adds to a long list of titles earned by this group, including:

Summer Travel (Grades 1–2)

Summer Travel (Grades 3–4)

Spring Recreation (Grades 5–6)

Spring Recreation (Grades 7–8)

Summer Travel 14U (2025)

2024 Fieldstone Middle School Championship (first in 15 years)

As they head toward high school ball — Hills fans are in for a treat — this Montvale squad brings with them years of shared experience, countless innings, and a tradition of finishing strong.

In a fun twist, this year’s Kinderkamack Softball League Summer champions — Montvale 14U —received Super Bowlstyle rings in place of the usual medals or trophies. “The league was creative this year,” said coach Richard Higgins.

RIVER VALE

Papyrus making, ancient writing:hands-on fun for kids

YOUNGHISTORYBUFFS and curious crafters entering grades 3–8 are invited to step back in time at the Papyrus Making and Ancient Writing Workshop on Thursday, Aug. 14, from 4 to 4:45 p.m. at the River Vale Public Library.

Held in the Community Room, this interactive program lets participants create their own sheet of papyrus to take home and dry

Attendees will also try their hand at writing on prepared papyrus using special ink pens inspired by ancient tools—just like scribes from thousands of years ago.

Children will learn about the ancient Phoenician city of Byblos, a hub of the historic papyrus trade, and explore how cultures across the Mediterranean connected through storytelling and

the written word. Registration is required. Visit rivervalelibrary.org or contact the library for more information.

NJ MOVESPUBLICNOTICES

ONLINE, ENDINGPRINTMANDATE

Beginning in March 2026, a new state law will require all municipalities in New Jersey to post public notices exclusively online, ending the long-standing legal requirement to publish them in print newspapers.

The change, signed into law by Gov. Phil Murphy in June, is expected to save towns thousands of dollars annually and streamline the notification process—especially for time-sensitive special and emergency meetings.

Officials in Washington Township and Montvale tell Pascack Press they welcome the move, estimating savings of $4,000 to $12,000 per year.

Under the law, each municipality must post public notices— such as meeting announcements and bid requests—on a designat-

ed, easily accessible section of their official website.

The state will also establish a central database linking to every townʼs public notices page. By July 2026, towns must also maintain a one-year archive of prior notices online.

Municipal clerks across the Pascack Valley expressed support for the law, noting that onlineonly posting allows for faster turnaround and easier access for residents, improving public transparency.

The law was supported by the New Jersey State League of Municipalities and more than 160 towns, but was opposed by the New Jersey Press Association and newspapers like The Record, who warned the change could harm public access and further destabi-

lize struggling print newsrooms. The transition follows the early 2025 closure of The StarLedger and several other New Jersey print newspapers due in part to declining circulation and ad revenues.

Staff writer Michael Olohan

Editorʼs Note: Michaelʼs report runs in full at PascackP ress.com. On this subject, Pascack Press does not receive legal advertising revenue. We do, however, take pride in our role as the strongest and most reliable source of news, views, and features for our beloved Pascack Valley — including on municipal and school board governance. For advertising info, print and online, write ads@thepressgroup.net or call 201-664-2105.

Let us help announce your achievements. Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: ‘The Big Lie: Aging Means Decline. Nope!’

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Here's one of the biggest lies in modern medicine: “Youʼre j ust getting older.” Itʼs the medical equivalent of “Itʼs not you, itʼs me”— a lazy excuse used when your back hurts, your knees creak, your memory falters, or your eyes canʼt focus on your phone without squinting likeClint Eastwood in a dust storm. Suddenly, youʼre not a patient with a problem; youʼre just a birthday with symptoms.

But hereʼs what most doctors wonʼt tell you: your memory can

actually improve as you age. Your posture can improve, too. So can your vision, your energy levels, your resilience, and yes, even your mood. Aging doesnʼt have to be a slow march toward discomfort and decay. It can be a power walk toward clarity and capability—if you do it right.

Letʼs start with the brain. A study from the University of California shows that older adults who engage in daily mental activity—like learning a new language, dancing, or even playing a musical instrument—actually grow new brain connections. This incredible phenomenon is called neuroplasticity, and it means your brain can literally rewire itself for better memory and sharper focus. Think of it as a neurological

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upgrade, not a default downgrade. So donʼt let anyone blame your forgetfulness on “senior moments.” Youʼre probably just d ehydrated—or spending too much time doomscrolling antisocial media.

Posture is another major misconception. Weʼve been conditioned to believe that as we age, our spines inevitably curve like question marks and our heads d roop like wilting sunflowers. But this is not a law of nature— itʼs just a consequence of too much sitting and bad habits. In my office, Iʼve worked with patients in their 70s and 80s w hoʼve dramatically improved their posture with consistent,

simple practices: looking up throughout the day, rolling their shoulders back, doing rows with resistance bands, and using the backstroke in the pool. Oh, and if your phone is below your chin right now—lift it. Your neck will thank you, and your brain will work better when your head isnʼt tilted like a bowling ball on a bent straw.

And believe it or not, even vision can improve. Research has shown that spending time outside—especially during natural sunlight hours—can reduce eye strain and slow the progression of nearsightedness. So maybe itʼs not age-related vision loss. Maybe itʼs screen overdose. Another way to improve vision is using a Brock string. We have them at our offices and they are used to exercise the eye muscles and they can actually help improve your vision over time.

The same principle applies to pain. Sure, some degeneration happens with age, but so does regeneration. The body was designed to heal itself—if you fuel it with the right nutrients, hydrate it properly, move it daily, and avoid inflammation. Chronic pain isnʼt always a symptom of aging; itʼsoften a symptom of dehydration, poor posture, inflammation, or all three. And guess what helps all of those? Movement. Hydration. Sleep. Sunshine. And yes, laughter. Itʼsworth noting that some of the healthiest patients Iʼve worked with share a common set of traits. Theytake the fewest medications, visit doctors the least, avoid unnecessary medical tests, and wouldnʼt know the inside of a

hospital if you handed them a map. Why? Because they live proactively. They focus on prevention. They eat whole foods, sleep deeply, build strong relationships, move their bodies, and keep their brains engaged. Theyʼre not trying to turn back time—theyʼre just not wasting it.

So hereʼs the truth: Itʼs not aging that makes you sick. Itʼs inactivity, disconnection, processed food, chronic stress, and the fact that people think yoga is just for women in $200 leggings. The good news is, you can change all of that. But first, you need to know how your brain is actually functioning.

Thatʼs why we offer qEEG Brain Mapping, a cutting-edge tool that reads your brainwaves and shows how well your brain is c ommunicating. Itʼs non-invasive, radiation-free, takes about 15 minutes, and normally costs $600. But for readers of this column, itʼs just $21. Thatʼs right— less than the cost of a salad in Manhattan. Call 201-261-2150 or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to book your brain map today. And donʼt forget to check out my book, Boost Your Brain Power: A Guide to Improving Your Memory and Focus, available now on Amazon. You can also catch me every Saturday morning on Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan at 8 on AM 970 and at 2 p.m. on WOR 710. Because aging doesnʼt mean decline—it means more opportunities to get smarter, stronger, and sharper. Just donʼt expect your insurance company to cover common sense.

Check out museum passes!

Emerson residents with a valid (no fines) library card can borrow passes for free admission to local museums. Here are just a fewhighlights:

• AKC Museum of the Dog (NYC): two adults, two children

• Childrenʼs Museum of Manhattan: Up to four people; eticket required

• NJ Aviation Hall of Fame (Teterboro): Up to six people

•Yogi Berra Museum: twp adults, any children

• Guggenheim Museum (NYC): four adults + children under 12

• Liberty Science Center: $3 off with library card

• Every Kid Outdoors: 4th graders get free national park access (everykidoutdoors.gov) Visit emerson.bccls.org or check your local library.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

PASCACK VALLEY

Rep Josh Gottheimer pushes to combat tick-borne illnesses in Jersey

U .S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) on July 25 joined health experts, advocates, and local leaders at the verdant Tenafly Nature Center to announce new federal legislation aimed at protecting families from Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.

The legislative package includes investment in new technologies to track outbreaks, boost public awareness, and fund research into diagnostics and treatment. The announcement came as the U.S. recorded its highest number of tick-related emergency room visits since 2017, with New Jerseyʼs visits nearly doubling compared to this time last year.

“Everyone knows the Garden State is home to some of the most beautiful trails and parks in the country,” said Gottheimer.

Clark:

FROM PAGE 21

worker, lives in Maine with her wife and daughter, Vivien, 4,” he tells us.

Between college and law school he was a partner in a restoration bookbinding studio, The Bindery, in New Haven, Conn.

Rare down time: Jim Clark — a Hillsdale EMT who just won his third Cross Triathlon national title — and his wife, Nancy. Courtesy photo

“But we must stay alert and protect against whatʼs lurking in the grass and trees: the legitimate threat of ticks and the diseases they carry.”

He noted that Lyme disease is often misdiagnosed due to unreliable testing, and while it can sometimes be treated with antibiotics, there is no cure.

“Weʼre making progress on treatments—we need to double down,” he said. “This is not a left or right issue. This is a Jersey families issue.”

Gottheimer was joined by Tenably Mayor Mark Zinna, Andrew Mikesh of the Tenably Nature Center Board, Meghan Bradshaw of the Center for Lyme Action, and many others.

Debora Davidson, executive director of the Tenably Nature Center, emphasized the importance of public engagement:

“TNC is proud to serve as the backdrop for this important conversation about Lyme Disease prevention. As a nearly 400-acre preserve created through the vision of local leaders dedicated to conservation and education, we believe public awareness of tick-borne illnesses is essential to ensuring that everyone can safely enjoy the outdoors.”

Bradshaw praised Gottheimer as “a Lyme and tickborne disease champion leading bipartisan solutions to attack this wicked problem head-on.”

Ticks and Lyme on the Rise

•An estimated 476,000 Americans are treated for Lyme disease each year.

•New Jersey ranks third in the nation—five times the national average.

•The Northeast reports the most cases nationwide.

•Early July 2025 marked the highest tick-related ER visits in the U.S. since 2017.

•New Jersey ER visits for tick-related issues have nearly doubled year over year.

• Over 21,000 cases were reported in the state between 2022 and 2024; more than 2,000

cases have been reported so far in 2025.

• 50% of Lyme cases occur during the summer.

The Legislative Package

• The BITE Act (Battling Infections Transmitted by Ticks and Exposure): Creates a national response system using AI and mobile alerts to notify residents of high-risk tick zones.

•The Tick Identification Pilot Program Act: Funds state-level programs for photographing, reporting, and analyzing tick encounters via a CDC-supported database.

•The Stamp Out Lyme Disease Act: Introduces a fundraising postage stamp to support NIH research on Lyme and other tick-borne diseases.

Gottheimer also recently led a letter to the House Appropriations Committee urging strong federal support for Lyme research. He has championed the LymeX Authorization Act, the Children Inflicted by Lyme Disabilities Act, and the TICK Act, which established a coordinating office at the Deptartment of Health and Human Services.

Rep. Josh Gottheimer meets with advocates at Tenafly Nature Center on July 25 to combat Lyme disease and tick-borne illnesses. Peter Figueroa photo

Summer is a season of relaxation. Warm air, longer hours of daylight and vacations from school and work make summer a laid back time of year.

Many people enjoy the warmer air of summer, but itʼs important to have a cool place to retreat once temperatures become particularly warm. That means a well-cooled home with an air conditioning system operating at peak capacity. A new HVAC system can last between 15 and 25 years.

Homeowners whose systems are at least a decade and a half old can keep an eye out for the following signs that an HVAC may need to be replaced.

• Higher energy bills: Energy costs can vary widely by location, but homeowners know that their energy bills have been on the rise for years. FirstEnergy estimated that energy costs for New Jersey residents in 2025 could increase by more than 19 percent by the middle of the year, a point in time

when many Garden State residents begin using their air conditioning units every day. That can make it hard to gauge if higher energy bills are a reflection of market price increases or a unit that needs replacement. But higher energy bills could indicate a unit is not working efficiently, which is a telltale sign of an HVAC that may need to be replaced. Compare energy bills from a year ago to current bills, and then factor in the price increase. If energy consump-

tion is on the rise compared to a year ago, that could indicate an HVAC unit is working less efficiently.

• A humid home: Humidity is a part of summer, but itʼs typically felt outdoors, not inside. A home with a humid interior while the AC is running could indicate a problem with the HVAC unit. According to HVAC.com, a functioning HVAC unit utilizes an evaporator coil to pull excess water vapor from the air in a home and drain it away from the home. If the air inside a home is humid, the unit might be having a mechanical issue thatʼs preventing this important task from being performed.

• Frequent repairs: A telltale sign a unit needs to be replaced is the need for frequent repairs.

Homeowners who are now on a first-name basis with their HVAC contractor may want to ask that professional if itʼs time to replace the unit. Money being spent on frequent repairs may be better repurposed toward financing the purchase of a new unit that could last as long as a quarter century.

• Poor air flow: An HVAC unit operating at peak capacity will produce a steady flow of cool air through the vents throughout a

A fully functional air conditioning system is vital in summer. Some telltale signs any homeowner can spot may indicate an existing HVAC unit needs to be replaced.

home. Poor air flow through those vents means it will take longer than normal to cool a home, and homeowners can put their hands near the vents to see how well or how poorly air is flowing through them. If air is flowing poorly, the unit will have to work harder to cool the home, which will contribute to higher energy bills.

You can put together landing a great handyman

Dear Savvy Senior,

Whatʼs the best way to find a good handyman or tradesman who can help with small jobs around the house?

Almost 75

Dear Almost,

Itʼs a great question. Finding a good home repair/handyman can be a bit of a crapshoot. How do you find someone who will return your calls or texts, show up on time, do the job right and finish it, all at a fair price? Here are a few tips and resources that can help you search.

What Kind of Help

While it may seem obvious, whom you call on for help will depend on what you need done. If, for example, you have an odd job or small home repair project that doesnʼt require a lot of technical expertise, a handyperson may be all you need. But if you have a job that involves electricity, plumbing, or heating or cooling systems, you?re better off going with a licensed tradesman. Bigger jobs like home renovations or remodeling may require a general contractor.

Where to Find a Pro

Whatever type of work you need, the best way to find it is through referrals from people you trust. If your friends or family donʼt have any recommendations turn to professionals in the field like local

hardware or home improvement stores, or even real estate agents.

If you donʼt have any luck here, there are a number of online resources you can turn to that can quickly connect you to a wide variety of skilled workers in your area.

If you need someone for a home chore or small job, a popular option is Taskrabbit (taskrabbit.com), which lists thousands of freelance workers (called Taskers) that have undergone background checks. Here you can get help with things like furniture assembly; lifting or moving heavy items; mounting or hanging televisions, shelfs or pictures; minor home repairs; cleaning services; yard work and more. Taskers set their own hourly rates, which are displayed on their website before you book.

Other good options for locating handypeople are fix-it franchises like Ace Handyman (acehandymanservices.com) and Mr. Handyman (mrhandyman.com). These

companies vet and insure their staff, but they may be more expensive than Taskrabbit. Or, if you use social networking sites, you could also post a request for a handyperson in your Facebook group or on Nextdoor (nextdoor.com).

If, however, youʼre in the market for specialist like a plumber, electrician, painter, roofer or carpenter as well as a handyperson, try Angi (angi.com). They too, vet their independent contractors, and will let you request quotes from several candidates.

Thumbtack (thumbtack.com) is another good resource thatʼs similar to Angi, but they offer more details like average response time, specifics about the work they do, and photos of past projects.

Things to Know

Once youʼve located a few candidates, here are some steps you can take to protect your money and ensure youʼre satisfied with the results. First, get a handwritten estimate or digital contract that list the tasks and the hourly rate or project fee.

Also, ask to see their proof of insurance, which covers any damages they may cause while working on your home, and ask for several references from past jobs.

You should also pay after the work is done, not before. But itʼs not unusual to be asked for a small deposit for material costs up front.

And if possible, you should

pay with a credit card, because you can dispute the payment if something goes wrong with the job.

Checks and electronic payments like PayPay, Venmo and Zelle donʼt

REAL ESTATE PASCACK VALLEY

Trees:

FROM PAGE 14

Vial told us, “We remove trees that fall from our property into a river or stream. But while we own and manage many acres of watershed in the region, much of the property along rivers and streams is owned by and is the responsibility of public entities or homeowners.”

She said, “In these cases, a homeowner should consult their municipality about removal.”

Noting recent surveys of streams in four towns, she said, “We have studied the survey and are identifying snags that border Veolia property and planning to attempt removals wherever possible.”

Washington Township notice

In October 2023, the township issued a newsletter targeted partly at homeowners with prope rties adjacent to the Musquapsink Brookʼs 3.6 mile path through the township. It offered five specific “maintenance and good housekeeping” suggestions for improving stream banks and clearing out fallen trees and branches.

“Property owners are solely responsible for any fallen trees, branches that may have fallen into the brook, or its shoreline. All yard waste, refuse and debris shall be removed and placed out for removal in accordance with Township Ordinance #426,” states the newsletter.

The newsletter was funded by a state stormwater manage-

m ent grant, said Mayor Peter Calamari, whose signature concludes the newsletter, which also i ncludes brief notes from the police department, tax, and zoning/planning departments. Boswell Engineering produced the newsletter.

The “stormwater management and stream bank maintenance” newsletter follows discussions by Township Council to alert streamside property owners to their responsibilities following completion of an aerial drone report that revealed “areas of excessive erosion, sediment deposition and vegetation impeding the channel (brook),” noted the newsletter.

The drone report, completed by Boswell Engineering in early 2023 and available on the town-

ship website, listed nearly 100 obstructions along eight specific sections of the brook. This included 45 downed trees, 33 sediment shoals, 14 areas where stream b anks require stabilizing, plus several “critical sanitary issues” where stream bank erosion has exposed concrete sanitary manholes, risking potential contami-

nation of the brook by sanitary wastes.

The township is still awaiting NJDEP approval on a resubmitted application to perform t wo emergency streambank repairs by eroded sanitary manholes, township administrator Mark DiCarlo said at the July council meeting.

PARK FLOORING

PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING PARK FLOORING

ON THE ROAD

Demystified:Know your ride’s inner workings

Itʼs been said it takes a village to raise a child. And when it comes to cars and trucks, scores of components are required to ensure a vehicle is operational. Various parts must work in concert to power a car or truck. Drivers may not fully understand the roles of the key components under the hood and elsewhere.

The following are some of the parts and features involved in vehicle operation.

• Engine: The engine is the most important component in a gaspowered vehicle. Without it, the vehicle would not move. Most modern vehicles are powered by an internal combustion engine, which creates energy by igniting a mixture of fuel and air. Increasingly, however, customers are opting for electric motors that store energy in rechargeable batteries.

• Cooling system: This component keeps the engine at a temperature that is optimal to prevent overheating. It consists of a radiator that transfers heat from the hot engine coolant to the atmosphere; a water pump that forces coolant to circulate; and a thermostat to regulate the engineʼs operating temperature.

• Transmission: The transmission is a complex system of gear sets, hydraulic torque converters, and clutches and bands. Automatic transmissions work automatically to shift to accelerate and decelerate as needed for a smooth driving experience.

Drivers control a manual transmission. AutoZone notes thereʼs also a continuously variable transmission that continuously adjusts the trans-

mission ratio to optimize fuel efficiency.

• Battery and alternator: The battery stores energy so it can be released as electricity to run the vehicleʼs electrical components. The alternator is responsible for generating electricity for the vehicle, but also to recharge the battery.

• Catalytic converter: This part is a component of the exhaust system. It is an emissions control device that will transform dangerous exhaust gases into water, carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

• Brakes: The brakes on a vehicle slow it down and enable it to come to a stop. Cars will have disc or drum brake systems. Disc brakes include calipers, rotors and pads. The calipers are housings for the brake pads and are responsible for converting hydraulic pressure when the driver presses the brake pedal into mechanical force. The brake pads create friction against the brake rotor (a spinning disc), generating the force needed to stop the car.

• Shock absorbers: A car ride would be very rough and bumpy without a suspension system. Shock absorbers are springs that smooth out the ride by ensuring the tires remain in contact with the road surface. Worn shocks can cause vibrations and uneven tire wear.

• Starter and solenoid: The starter is responsible for turning the engineʼs crankshaft. When the ignition is engaged, it moves a small gear called a pinion. Then the starter motor spins, cranking the engine to initiate the combustion process. The

have hundreds of parts that work together to start and move the car so that people can effortlessly get from point A to point B.

solenoid is an electro-mechanical switch between the battery and the starter that receives an electrical signal when the vehicle ignition is engaged. The solenoid powers the starter, which helps to crank the engine.

• Steering system: The steering components transfer input from the steering wheel to the front wheels. Modern cars have power steering, which reduces the amount of effort needed to turn the steering wheel. The steering wheel rotates the steer-

ing column, which rotates the pinion gear that connects to a rack that extends the width of the vehicle. As the pinion rotates, it pushes the rack, which then moves the tie rods and steering knuckles on the front tires.

Deadly distraction: Hang up and drive

don’t dial in tragedy

Few likely imagined that a day would come when a person could communicate, browse the internet, take photos and videos, play music, and much more all from a device small enough to store in a pants pocket. But thatʼs just what one gets with a smartphone. These amazing devices have transformed how people engage in everyday life. Although smartphones have their upside, there are disadvantages to the connectivity they provide — including the threat phones pose when used while behind the wheel.

•

ything that causes a driver e his or her eyes off of the road, even if only for a few seconds, can prove disastrous. And smartphones have proven particularly distracting for drivers.

Each time a driver gets away with using a phone without incident while behind the wheel, he or she may feel like it is no big wever, there is very real danger in doing so. Here are some acts that highlight how dangerous using a smartphone while driving can be.

• The National Safety Council has found drivers using handsfree and handheld cell phones fail to see up to 50 percent of the information in their driving environment. This is known as “inattention blindness.”

Although smartphones are convenient, they should be stored out of reach while driving to limit the temptation of use.

• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says using a cell phone while driving increases crash risk, as researchers have consistently linked texting or manipulating a cell phone to increased risk. When the IIHS monitored drivers who frequently use cell phones while driving for one year, those drivers had the highest rates of near crashes and crashes.

• Using driving simulators or instrumented vehicles, various analyses have found typing or reading text messages significant-

ly slowed reaction time and increased lane deviations. It also increased the length of time drivers looked away from the roadway. The NSC says drivers using cell phones had reaction times slower than drivers impaired by alcohol at .08 blood alcohol concentration.

• When a person sends a text message or reads a message, it takes his or her eyes off the road for five seconds. Going 55 miles per hour while texting is like driving the length of a football field with oneʼs eyes closed.

Vehicles

•

Emerson 1-2 completed an undefeated summer travel season in t he Kinderkamack Softball League, defeating River Edge 13–4 in the championship. This win capped a remarkable season by the Cavos, who finished the KSL regular season 9-0-1 with an overall record of 12-0-1, including a big walk-off win vs. #2 seed River Vale courtesy of Samantha Travieso, who put her dad on his backside with a line drive up the middle. Ariana Marino provided the big gametying hit with two outs. Both Ariana and Samantha lived out every

ballplayerʼs dream that day. Emerson 1-2 finished their regular season 9-0-1, with their sole tie coming against River Edge in a heart-wrenching 15–15 game. These two teams were destined to meet again to decide who would claim the 1-2 KSL Championship.

River Edge defeated NVOT in Round 1 and River Vale in the semis to reach the final. Emerson received the #1 seed and faced a tough Hillsdale team in the opening round of the playoffs.

Led by the power hitting of Chloe Castillo and Sophia

Front to back,left to right: Players Samantha Travieso,Olivia Mara,Emilia Vilardi,Chole Castillo,Isha Patel,Scarlett Timmerman,Maggie Maginnis, Sophia Travieso;assistant coaches Mike Timmerman and Brook Castillo,head coach Dave Travieso,and assistant coach Pete Vilardi.Not pictured:Olivia Healy,Ariana Marino.Courtesy photo.

Travieso (a combined three doubles and seven RBI), Olivia Healy provided the defense in this game with multiple putouts—including a line drive catch up the middle—and throughout the year. Olivia was the teamʼs spark plug all season long. However, the story all season has been “Team Softball,” and our second-round matchup would prove to be the toughest yet.

Wednesday night, July 23 at

6 p.m., the scene was set: Emerson 1-2 Travieso vs. Emerson 1-2 DaSilva. Moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas were rooting both for and against their own town. The entire softball community came out to watch—and these girls did not disappoint. They embraced the competition in a nail-biter of a game. Emerson 1-2 Travieso was down early, 3–0 in the first, but was led by our leadoff hitter, Scarlett Timmerman. The nerves were in the

stands, not on the field.

Both Scarlett Timmerman and Maggie Maginnis collected four hits, with Isha Patel adding three hits and anchoring the defense at first base. Emilia Vilardi showed her speed on the bases with her hustle, avoiding multiple tag outs and collecting two hits. A total team effort!

Emerson 1-2 Travieso came out on top, 12–10. The 1-2 girls from both teams then stayed into the evening hours to watch the eventual 12U champs finish their playoff game right across the field. It was a great day for Emerson softball, to say the least.

In the championship game, Emerson 1-2 again faced River Edge—and the girls came to p lay. All season long, Chloe Castillo has been a team leader, and this day was no different, playing remarkable defense from the pitcherʼs helper position. River Edge found it difficult that night to get runs across the plate.

The offense was provided by Olivia Mara, who had a consistent bat all summer long (one double and two RBI). Sophia Travieso was back to her hardhitting ways with two doubles and four RBI. Emerson closed the deal with a 13–4 victory in the championship game.

Contributions were made by all throughout the summer These girls showed how hard work and teamwork can always give you results. Team report

H

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 FEMA flood 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

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TWP. OF WASHINGTON - DPW FULL-TIME LABORER POSITION. Please visit www.twpofwashington.us for employment opportunity

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS LABORER TEMPORARYF/TSUMMER 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. H

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

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

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.

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 T oby2092000@ 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,

The Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps (WVAC) amazes again on its annual summer carnival, Tuesday, July 22 through Saturday, July 26 at Westwood Plaza!

Photos courtesy Richard Frant, FrantVisuals

WASHINGTON, D.C.

IRS celebrates National Whistleblower Day

In anticipation of National Whistleblower Appreciation Day on July 30, the Internal Revenue Service Whistleblower Office recognizes the important role whistleblowers continue to play in supporting the nation's tax administration. Whistleblowers and the IRS Whistleblower Program are essential for promoting fairness and accountability and collecting funds from noncompliant taxpayers.

Since issuing its first award in 2007 through June 2025, the IRS has paid over $1.3 billion in awards based on the successful collection of $7.5 billion from noncompliant taxpayers.

“Whistleblowers serve as an invaluable deterrent against noncompliance with tax laws and are critical in our efforts to reduce the tax gap,” said acting Whistleblower Office Director Erick Martinez. “The IRS Whistleblower Office is committed to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the IRS Whistleblower Program through improved service, responsiveness and modernization efforts.”

The IRS Whistleblower Office continues strategic efforts to improve processes and strengthen collaboration with all whistleblower program stakeholders. The office recently released its first multi-year operating plan outlining strategic priorities, recent achievements and current initiatives to advance the program. Current efforts include streamlining award processes by building a new claim management system, working on a digital submission portal to make it easier to file whistleblower claims and direct deposit becoming the standard payment method for whistleblower awards.

In Fiscal Year 2024, the IRS paid awards totaling $123.5 million based on whistleblower information attributable to tax and other

amounts collected of $474.7 million. In Fiscal Year 2024, the Whistleblower Office established 14,926 award claims, an increase of 13% compared to the average of the prior four years.

The IRS values the assistance it receives from whistleblowers, the whistleblower practitioner community and whistleblower submissions that the IRS can act on. Actionable claims contain specific, timely, significant and credi-

ble information. A whistleblower may qualify for an award when the use of the whistleblower's information results in proceeds collected. The awards paid to whistleblowers generally range between 15 and 30% of the proceeds collected attributable to their information.

The IRS Whistleblower Office was established in 2007 to administer claims from whistleblowers that identify taxpayers

who may not be complying with tax laws or other laws the IRS administers, enforces or investigates.

National Whistleblower Appreciation Day is recognized on July 30 because the Continental Congress passed America's first whistleblower law on July 30, 1778. The first law related to whistleblowers on tax violations was enacted almost 90 years later in March 1867.

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