Issuu

Emerson • Hillsdale • Montvale • Park Ridge • River Vale • Township of Washington • Westwood • Woodcliff Lake

T H E PA S C AC K VA L L E Y ’ S H O M E TO W N N E W S PA P E R

VOLUME 30 ISSUE 29

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026

‘Kylie’s Law’ STANDOUT START One card, seeks a voice TO SENIOR YEAR 64 libraries, for children Area schools cheer 25 students rocking the a summer National Merit Scholarship Program with cancer well spent

MONTVALE

Gottheimer, Lawler, Schepisi want seat at table for pediatric cancer doctors

Paul Low turns a library scavenger hunt into a North Jersey road trip

BY JOHN SNYDER EDITOR@THEPRESSGROUP.NET

Adam and Hayley Kupperman cannot change what happened to their daughter. They hope legislation bearing her name can change what happens to other children. Family, friends, physicians and advocates gathered Sept. 22 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Bergen for the announcement of “Kylieʼs Law,” honoring Kylie Elana Kupperman, who died of cancer at 19. “We cannot change what happened to Kylie,” her father said. “That is the painful truth our family lives with each and every day.” “But through this legislation, Kylieʼs story can help change what happens to the children and families that come after her.” U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5) announced the bipartisan Kylieʼs Voices for Childhood Cancer Act, introduced with U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler of New York. It would require states receiving federal funding for comprehensive cancer control plans to include at least two pediatric cancer experts on the coalitions developing them. Born in Englewood and raised in Chappaqua, New York, Kylie was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a malignant brain tumor, before her fourth birthday. Surgery, proton radiation and chemotherapy followed. After nearly 16 months of treatment, her father said, she was declared cancer-free. Treatment left lasting physical and learning challenges, but she earned a merit scholarship to her

See KYLIE on page 274

BY JOHN SNYDER EDITOR@THEPRESSGROUP.NET

Pascack Valley High School’s 2027 National Merit honorees include semifinalist Luli Soohoo (with Pascack Valley High School guidance counselor Jen Kuo) and Commended Students Damian Adamek, Gregory Berde, Ian Chang, Ryan Hannigan, Nicholas Hernandez, Amy Miyata, Dylan Park, Lia Senande, and Ariana Velez. Courtesy photos.

BY JOHN SNYDER EDITOR@THEPRESSGROUP.NET TEST TAKEN during junior

PASCACK VALLEY

year has brought a new distinction to senior year for 25 students at three regional and at least one local high

schools. Pascack Valley, Pascack Hills, Westwood Regional, and Park Ridge have reported two semifinalists and 23 Commended Students in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program— recognition that puts these students among the nationʼs

highest-scoring entrants. For Luli Soohoo of Pascack Valley and Jooyoung Oh of Pascack Hills, the competition continues. Both earned semifinalist status, joining more than 16,000 seniors nationwide with an

Continued on page 8

Late in the day, Paul Low was behind a Dunkinʼ in Cliffside Park, looking for a library with no sign. He had already been there once. His carʼs directions had brought him to the small strip mall, but nothing looked like a library. He tried another address and found the permanent building closed for renovations—with a notice directing him back to the storefront he had just left. Now he had 10 minutes until closing. Low found the temporary library, explained his mission, and collected his stamp. The librarian walked him to the door and locked it behind him. There was still another stop to make. For the Montvale retiree, “Stamp Your Way Around BCCLS” had become considerably more than a summer scavenger hunt. By the time he finished, Low had collected 64 stamps, mapped routes across northern New Jersey, and discovered just how much exploring a library card could set in motion. “For me, it was a mission from

See LIBRARIES on page 244

MOVING THE BALL

B ck in time...

Marine vet and Post 153 Commander Ryan O’Hara visits the Owls football program during practice to discuss hard work, discipline, and commitment beyond the field. PAGE 17

Kristin Beuscher continues our stagecoach journey through the 1860s Pascack Valley. We follow the route the stagecoach took through this area 165 years ago. PAGE 4

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

GDC CONTRACTING INC.

Family Owned & Operated Since 1964

201-225-1957 www.GDCContractingInc.com Offices in Westwood and Emerson LIC LIC #13VH01317100 #13VH01317100

FINANCING AVAILABLE

KITCHENS/BATHS

$ $ 750 OFF 400 OFF 250 OFF Any Project Any Project Any Project

of $10,000 Or More

of $3,500 Or More

of $2,000 Or More

Offer Valid On Quotes Between 4/30/25 - 6/30/25. With This Coupon Only. Cannot Be Combined With Other Offers. Expires 10-31-26

Offer Valid On Quotes Between 4/30/25 - 6/30/25. With This Coupon Only. Cannot Be Combined With Other Offers. Expires Expires 10-31-26

PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Sign of the N times on Park Ridge Council

To the editor:

OVEMBERʼS

Park Ridge Council election is about the values of hard work, public service and integrity. Democratic councilmembers Robert Metzdorf and Mike Mintz exemplify these values. Republicans, by contrast, have engaged in what I would say is clearly unethical behavior. When a Republican member was charged with violating the ordinance barring political signs from public property, he and his Republican colleagues hatched a plan to repeal the very part of the ordinance that he was charged with violating. I believe that the repeal was introduced on a false pretense — that the ordinance was somehow unconstitutional. But most towns in our area have nearly the identical

since 1978

DRIVING SCHOOL INC. Lic. # 045-85N

• Highly Respected, Full Service Driving School • Prep Lessons, 6 Hour Lessons & Road Tests • Experienced State Licenced Instructors

Call Now to Schedule Your Appointment!

201-666-4147 12 Lincoln Blvd., Suite 103, Emerson, NJ

Nyack’s Famous Street Fair Promoted by P.J.’s Promotions

Sponsored by

ACADA

“On the Hudson”

Main Street & Broadway, Nyack, NY

Sunday, Oct. 11th 10am to 5pm Featuring Great Crafts, Art, Photography, Retail Items, Unique Gifts, Music, Delicious Festival Foods

300+ EXHIBITORS

“A Not-To-Be-Missed Unique Fair”

FREE ADMISSION RAIN OR SHINE SPONSOR:

NO PETS ALLOWED

Dir & Info @ pjspromotions.com • 201-410-5416

ordinance, one that allows townsponsored holiday decorations, but which prohibits proliferation of political signs on public property, and the SCOTUS case Republicans cited to justify the repeal bears no resemblance to our ordinance, so it simply doesnʼt apply. After being educated on relevant case law, council voted in July to table the repeal until after the election, by which time the court case against the councilmember would have concluded. But while Councilman Metzdorf was absent, Republicans stealthily re-introduced and, with two Republicans changing their prior votes, passed an unconstitutional repeal, which requires that political sign posters obtain a permit, in violation of the constitutional right to anonymous political speech. Republicans also then promptly passed an amendment to remove the permit requirement.

Most objective observers would conclude that they did this to help their Republican colleague to avoid accountability for his alleged illegal actions, since a repeal on constitutional grounds means the case against the councilmember could not be prosecuted. [See related story, page 9] By contrast, Councilman Mintz rightly abstained from voting for the repeal, because he stood to benefit personally, as it would enable him to post signs on public property, while running for re-election. One of the current Republican council candidates also sits on the Planning Board. He was aware of the charges against the councilmember when, as a board member, he voted to approve the repeal, which benefits his and his running mateʼs campaign, because they can now post signs on public property with impunity.

An Old Fashioned Barber Section Inside

SHAVE BAR Ask For Ralph

T he

Submission deadline is 11 a.m. Wednesday. Publication is not guaranteed. Subject to editing. No anonymous letters. Email to editor@thepressgroup.net.

Park Ridgers have a clear choice during this election. They can vote to endorse blatant Trumpian political corruption and avoidance of accountability, or they can vote for councilmen Robert Metzdorf and Mike Mintz, both of whom have demonstrated Park Ridge values of hard work, public service and integrity. Howard Fredrics Park Ridge

Letizia, Staples run on their records To the editor: several years, the work of local governO ment has become increasingly VER THE PAST

complicated. Decisions coming

See LETTERS on page 74

AATJ Termite & Pest Control, Inc. FREE ESTIMATES

201- 391-6 4 3 3

Formerly of Tim’s Barber Shop

HAIRCUTS - $28 SENIOR CUTS $22 (WEEKDAYS ONLY)

NO APPOINTMENTS

TUESDAY-FRIDAY 8-5 • SATURDAY 8-3

201-497-6603 • 102 Broadway • HILLSDALE

BEES, TERMITES, MICE & ALL PESTS!

50 Off Any New Service $

Offer Valid At Time Of Work & With Coupon Only. Not Valid For Previous Agreements. Ends 10/31/26

LUB rejects 122-unit assisted-living proposal EMERSON

The Land Use Board voted 6-1 Sept. 17 to reject a proposed 122unit assisted living facility at the former Armenian Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center site, following nine months of hearings and debate over the buildingʼs height, size, and proximity to schools and homes. The proposal called for a 2 1/2-story facility on the 3 1/2-acre property. Board member Michael Cimino cast the lone vote in favor and did not publicly explain his vote. Board member Jeff Bischoff, who voted against the application, said he supported senior housing but objected to the buildingʼs bulk and

each of the first two floors and 24 on the third. The building would have stood 43.5 feet tall from Broad Street and 40.5 feet from Main Street, exceeding the residential zoneʼs 32foot limit. Throughout the hearings, Borough Planner Caroline Reiter challenged the applicantʼs reliance on a 40-foot height standard previously allowed for the nursing home. The applicant later agreed that the 32-foot limit applied.

School officials, residents raise concerns Emerson School Board president Behrooz Pasdar said the district did not oppose nursing homes or assisted living facilities but had “significant concerns” about this location and its potential effects on students, school operations, neighboring school property, a n d taxpayers. Pasdar said an architect hired by the district identified stormwater concerns, including potential runoff onto school properties. He also raised questions about Applicant Armenian Home For the security and emerAged Inc. presented experts in facility gency vehicle traffic operations, engineering, architecture, plan- during school arrival, ning, traffic, and stormwater over six hear- dismissal, and activiings beginning in January. ties. R e s i d e n t third-story units. Michelle Whitney-Rizzo called the “While I fully support the inher- proposal a “beautiful facility, wrong ently beneficial use of senior hous- location,” citing its proximity to Viling, this specific site cannot handle lano Elementary School, Emerson the sheer bulk of this design,” Junior-Senior High School, and a Bischoff said. He described the pro- residential neighborhood. Other resiposal as a “profit-driven layout” that dents said they could support a would compromise neighborsʼ priva- smaller facility or one elsewhere. cy and overshadow their homes. Supporters pointed to housing The plans included 49 units on options for older residents, jobs, and

CONVENIENT SHOPPING ALL UNDER ONE ROOF!

88 CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE ESTIMATE. WE MAKE RENOVATIONS EASY!

201.791.7844

LICENSE # 13VH01904500 • ELECTRIC LIC. # 13805 • PLUMBING LIC. # NJ 6379

4-21 BANTA PLACE • FAIR LAWN, NJ

WWW.MASTERKITCHENSANDBATHS.COM

opportunities for community programs. Resident Alex Avedis said the facility would allow seniors to remain close to family and improve their quality of life. He disputed school officialsʼ safety concerns, apart from temporary traffic disruptions from emergency vehicles. The applicant, Armenian Home For the Aged, Inc., presented experts in facility operations, engineering, architecture, planning, traffic, and

stormwater over six hearings beginning in January. Its attorney, Brian Chewcaskie, argued that the assisted living use was similar to the former nursing home use and would not substantially harm the boroughʼs Master Plan or ordinances. He did not respond to a Sept. 18 request for comment by press time. The board could memorialize its denial at its Oct. 1 meeting. Gen-

erally, the applicant then has 45 days to challenge the decision. The 86-bed nursing home closed in April 2021 after nearly 30 residents died during the COVID pandemic. Officials said the property has since been used for administrative and storage purposes. The borough is separately contesting its tax-exempt status in a New Jersey Tax Court dispute covering 2022 through 2026.

FOR THE CAR ENTHUSIAST

Gary Leach

235 KINDERKAMACK RD, EMERSON • $2,350,000 Single Family I 2 Family I Ultimate Garage

Licensed Sales Associate Your Neighborhood REALTOR®

201-914-8600 INFINITY PROPERTIES

River Vale, NJ • 201-666-0777

Step into this distinctive 1903 Victorian, set on two lots totaling approx. 0.75 acre and featuring an extraordinary 1,395-sq foot, 3 BAY CUSTOM GARAGE on the adjacent building lot at 18 Jefferson Ave. Featured in a 2007 Travel Channel episode ("Fantasy Garages"), this was among the 10 best garages in the US at the time. This EXCEPTIONAL GARAGE is a true centerpiece of the property. All bays are heated, the main workshop is cooled, the workshops are "lift-ready" and a Tesla Universal EV charger (11.5kW) has been added. Quality and attention to detail carry over to the home & landscaping. The 3-story Victorian offers 12 rooms including 7 bedrooms, wrap-around porch, flexible living space, and a park-like setting. High ceilings, architectural details, and stained glass windows from the past combine with high efficiency HVAC systems, smart-home technology and modern conveniences of today. The 1st floor residence includes an entry foyer, living room, formal dining room, eat-in kitchen, three bedrooms, and a full bath. The second and third floors provide a separate living area with a living room, eat-in kitchen, four bedrooms and two full baths. House is ideal for extended family, guests, or rental income. The property is zoned for single-family or two-family use. Whether you are looking for a multi-generational home, an income-producing property, or a residence with an amazing dedicated workshop & garage, this property offers a rare combination of versatility and amenities.

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OLOHAN@THEPRESSGROUP.NET

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Pascack Valley Briefs — Save the Date — Chili cooks wanted for River Vale Day

Have a chili recipe worth bragging about? The township invites local cooks to enter its sixth annual Chili Cook-Off on Sunday, Oct. 4, as part of River Vale Day. The competition will award first-, second- and third-place prizes, bringing neighbors together for an afternoon of food and friendly rivalry. Families, friends and chili enthusiasts are encouraged to cheer on their favorite entries during the festivities. Whether itʼs a treasured family recipe or a creation of your own, the cook-off offers a chance to share your culinary skills and take part in a River Vale Day tradition. Entry is free, but registration is required. The deadline to sign up is Friday, Oct. 2. To enter, complete the online registration form or scan the QR code on the event flyer. For more information, email events@rivervalenj.org.

New fitness class welcomes men 55 and older

WESTWOOD — Westwood Recreation will launch “Menʼs Fitness: Senior Strength, Balance & Mobility” on Friday, Oct. 9, at 1 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. Part of the Forever Young program, the weekly class will be taught by strength and conditioning coach and personal trainer Karen Arbegast. Workouts will combine strength training, core stabilization, balance exercises and mobility work designed to support everyday activities and recreational sports. The class is free for Westwood residents. Nonresidents pay $20 per month. Register using the form in the Community Center lobby, available weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, call 201-664-7882.

B ck in time...

TO SEE MORE BACK IN TIME FEATURES

An 1860s trip through the Pascack Valley — Part 2

ETʼS CONTINUE our stagecoach journey

through the 1860s Pascack Valley. We are following the actual route the stagecoach took through this area 165 years ago. The route began at the old Trading Post at Pascack and Mill roads in Park Ridge, with the horse-drawn carriage collecting passengers as it meandered through villages that we now call Woodcliff Lake, Hillsdale, Westwood and Emerson. Its destination was the Northern Railroad depot in Closter. This was how people traveled to New York City during that decade before the Pascack Valley got its own railroad line. SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS By Kristin Beuscher, Historian, Pascack Historical Society, Park Ridge. Call (201) 573-0307 or visit

PascackHistoricalSociety.org

Last week (see below) we started off from the Trading Post and traveled south on Pascack Road. If you missed that first part of the story, you can visit Pascack Pressʼ website and find it under the “Back in Time” tab. As we pick up the journey south on Pascack Road, we see the beautiful Pascack Reformed Church coming up on the left side. It is this sectionʼs only house of worship, built some 50 years ago. Around it cluster the graves of the departed. Another cemetery only a little

At the time of our 1860s stagecoach trip, the Pascack Reformed Church was already half a century old — but it was still the only church in the valley.

inside DINING GUIDE

HEALTH & WELLNESS 17 FINANCIAL

HOME IMPROVEMENT 25 REAL ESTATE

CLASSIFIEDS

SERVICES

OBITUARIES

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING Serving Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Park Ridge, River Vale, Township of Washington, Westwood 201.664.2105 and Woodcliff Lake FAX 201.664.2109 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 335 E-MAIL US AT Westwood, N.J. 07675 pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

The Frederick Wortendyke Jr. House (Benjamin Hill’s place in the 1860s) as it looks today. It is located at 12 Pascack Road. The oldest home in Park Ridge, it has been purchased by the borough to ensure the structure is preserved.

farther on has much older headstones, some written in the Dutch dialect that was once ubiquitous here. That cemetery was in use years before the church was built. Even in this time, many of the older people still speak Jersey Dutch in their homes. It is a language unique to this section of America, a dialect of Dutch with some English and

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Publisher Staff Writer Editor Back in Time Art Director Director of Advertising

Lenape influence, and you wonder how much longer it will survive. One hundred years from now, in the 1960s, will anyone speak Jersey Dutch? Soon we pass between an old sprawling barn and the residence of its owner, Benjamin

John J. DeFina Michael Olohan John Snyder Kristin Beuscher Keith J. Harcher George F. Harcher

See TRIP on page 254

(c) 2026 The Press Group, all rights reserved. Material is developed independently by Pascack Press. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is forbidden. Views printed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. We are neither liable nor responsible for typographical errors. Email us with correction requests. Pascack Press is published in Westwood and distributed to every household in our circulation area.

Officials echo resident’s concerns over plate readers

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OLOHAN@THEPRESSGROUP.NET

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

A residentʼs objections to automated license plate readers drew sympathetic responses Sept. 8 from Mayor Peter Calamari and Councilor Michael Ullman, though neither endorsed his call to remove the cameras. Nicholas Asfar, of Sussex Road, said the township spent about $98,000 last year installing automated license plate readers, or ALPRs, at four intersections. He questioned their crime-fighting value and warned they track drivers regardless of suspected wrongdoing. Calamari said Asfar must have read his mind: He had just asked Police Chief Arsenio Pecora for state and county reports on

safeguards addressing those concerns. He promised to disclose the information once received. Ullman, describing himself as the “largest proponent of civil liberties” and probably the councilʼs most liberal member, agreed with “a lot of” Asfarʼs criticism and acknowledged possible “overreach” needing attention. But he called for “a balance that we need to find,” with concerns “measured against the effectiveness that the police chief has expressed” in previous council updates. Ullman recalled Pecora saying ALPR information helped solve a robbery ring operating locally. Pascack Press sought details from Pecora but did not immediately hear back. Asfar argued that elsewhere, ALPRs have proved “useless for the purpose of law enforcement…but an active detriment to

MOWNJ GALA HONORS LEE TREMBLE OCT. 1

Meals on Wheels North Jersey will honor longtime Westwood resident and former Iron Horse Restaurant owner Lee Tremble at its Harvest Fundraising Gala on Thursday, Oct. 1, at Seasons, 644 Pascack Road in Township of Washington. Tremble will receive the Gold Heart Volunteer honor for his years of service to the organization. Christ Lutheran Church will

be recognized as the Gold Heart Contributor for its continued generosity and support. The evening begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails and bourbon tasting, followed by dinner and entertainment at 7:30. Festivities include live music, basket and 50/50 raffles, a wine and spirits pull, and other fundraising fun. Tickets are $175 per person. Visit mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org

the people these cameras monitor.” Claims they reduce crime “have been debunked time and time again,” he said. “And to make it worse, these cameras are perhaps the most direct domestic threat to civil liberties today,” he said. Asfar said cameras record

vehicle locations “regardless of whether the driver is suspected of a crime.” He alleged police have used the data “to illegally stalk and make unlawful arrests of innocent people” and share information “across our nation.” He urged officials to consider those harms and promptly remove the

cameras. At the July 13 council meeting, Pecora and Capt. Michael Glock answered camera questions and provided local enforcement figures. Pecora said the cameras worked well except at

Stone Mill GARDEN CENTER

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1980

Pumpkins

• Mums • Fall Combos Hanging Baskets Baskets •• Millet Millet •• Hanging • Red Grass • Bushel Baskets STRAW • CORNSTALKS • GOURDS •FIREWOOD • MULCH • TOPSOIL• FERTILIZER • GRASS SEED LANDSCAPERS WELCOME!

HOURS: MON.-SAT. 8AM-5PM • SUN. 9AM-4PM

769 RIDGEWOOD ROAD, TWP. OF WASHINGTON, NJ • 201-263-1410 (Next To Westwood Regional High School)

6 FIRST-PERSON: IN MY EXPERIENCE…

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

New direction doesn’t discount the road behind

Hillsdale author Rosa L. Antonini on the simple question that changed the course of her career

WAS STANDING behind the counter of a check-cashing store in Union City when a decision I didnʼt know I was making began to take shape. I had earned a degree in phar-

UNCLE FRANK’S BARBER SHOP

STOP IN AND SEE FRANK! Senior Discounts Wed. & Thurs.

TUES.-FRI. 8AM-3PM • SAT. 7AM-2PM WALK-INS ONLY 89 PARK AVE. • PARK RIDGE, NJ • 201-782-9060 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

NEW MERCHAND IS ARRIVING E DAILY!

451 MARKET STREET • SADDLE BROOK, NJ (201)880-1030 • stonebrookgarden.com

FALL ITEMS!

macy in the Dominican Republic, but in the United States I could not practice until my credentials were validated and I obtained the necessary license. While I worked through that process, I took a minimum-wage job cashing checks. Most days were predictable. People came in, completed their transactions and left. That evening, the workday was beginning to wind down. I remember looking through the window as it started getting dark outside and thinking we were getting close to closing time. Then a man walked in and handed me a check to cash. As I always did, I looked over the check carefully. Depending on the company that issued it or the amount, I sometimes needed additional approval before I could cash it. That was when I noticed the amount. The check was for more than a thousand dollars. At that point in my life, that seemed like a huge amount of money, more than I made in weeks. But what caught my attention was not money simply for the sake of having more of it. I was starting over in a new country. I had an education and a profession, but neither could support me yet while I worked through the licensing process. At that moment, financial stability was not an abstract ambition; it was the most immediate priority in front of me. So when I saw that check, I became curious. I asked him what he did for a living. He could easily have answered and walked away. Instead, he told me he worked in

MUMS • CELOSIA • PANSIES FALL DECOR • CORN STALKS SCARECROWS HAY BALES

— ABOUT THE AUTHOR — ROSA L. ANTONINI is a Hillsdale software engineer, systems thinker, author, and founder of Rosa Antonini Academy. Her work connects technology, human behav-

technology. I knew almost nothing about the field, so I kept asking questions. How did someone get into that kind of work? What kind of training did it require? He gave me the names of a couple of schools and programs. The entire conversation probably lasted ten minutes. The next day, I called every program he had mentioned. When I eventually sat across from someone at one of the schools, I didnʼt ask which course sounded most interesting or which program was easiest. I asked a much more practical question: “What do you teach here that makes the most money?” The answer was programming. “Okay,” I said. “Iʼll do that.” When I look back now, I am struck less by the question than by what I did after hearing the answer. I already had a profession. I had spent years studying pharmacy. I was actively working through the process that would allow me to practice in the United States. I had invested time, effort and a significant part of my identity in becoming a pharmacist. Yet I allowed myself to consider something completely differ-

WE BUY GOLD & SILVER COINS, FLATWARE DIAMOND WATCHES

20 OFF

This week, Pascack Press continues “In My Experience,” an occasional series offering first-person reflections from people with stories and lessons to share.

34-10 BROADWAY FAIR LAWN, NJ Rt. 4 Eastbound • One Block From Dunkin Donuts

WE DO HOUSE CALLS!

TREES & SHRUBS

SCRAP GOLD JEWELRY

WE BUY ESTATE ITEMS!

DENTAL SCRAP

WATCH & JEWELRY REPAIR. We Beat All Competitors!

201-773-0999 MENTION THIS AD & GET

Pumpkins

PROPANE FILLING!

BAGGED & BULK MULCH • TOPSOIL • STONE FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM • DELIVERY AVAILABLE

AN EXTRA 10% BONUS

Must present coupon. Excludes Coins. Not combined with other offers.

CASH ON CASH ON THE THESPOT! SPOT! RelianceGoldBuyer.com • Reliancebuyers@gmail.com

ior and personal growth, exploring how people adapt and make decisions amid uncertainty. She is the author of “The ZeroSum Game of You” and “Resourcefulness,” and founder of Wonders of My World, a philanthropic initiative supporting vocational training and practical education for underserved communities. Learn more at ROSAANTONINI.COM.

ent.

It wasnʼt because pharmacy had been the wrong choice. It wasnʼt because I was unable to complete the licensing process. In fact, while studying programming, I continued validating my pharmacy credentials. Two years later, I had completed both. For a moment, I genuinely had two roads available to me. I chose technology. That decision eventually led to my first job in the field, at what was then Bank of New York Mellon. Later, I returned to school for a masterʼs degree in information systems at Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken. What began with a question to a stranger became a career I came to genuinely love. But the lesson that stayed with me was not simply that changing careers can work out. It was what I had been willing to release in order to make the decision. I had not erased my years of They studying pharmacy. remained part of my education, my experience and who I had become. But I did something that is often much harder than it sounds: I stopped requiring my next decision to justify everything I had already invested in the previous one. We do this more often than we realize. We stay with careers because we spent years preparing for them. We remain committed to plans because we have already invested so much time. Sometimes we hold onto versions of ourselves because changing direction feels as though we are admitting that everything that came before was wasted. But a previous decision does not have to have been wrong for a new decision to be right. That is something I understand much more clearly today than I did standing behind that counter. At the time, I wasnʼt thinking about identity, reinvention or the psychology of change. I wasnʼt analyzing what I might be giving up. I simply looked at what was in front of me and asked what I could do next. There is something freeing about that question. Not, “How do I make sure all the years behind me were worth it?” Not, “What am I supposed

See ANTONINI on page 154

out of Trenton have a greater impact on how towns like Westwood plan for their futures, while responsibility for maintaining infrastructure, managing costs, and delivering services remains firmly local. We have each served Westwood in different ways: Beth is a prior councilmember whose service has continued on the planning and zoning boards, the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC, leading the Jefferson Avenue Historic District designation), and the Shade Tree Advisory Committee. Lauren, also a longtime HPC chair, serves as Council President, focusing on zoning, planning, flooding, parking, communication and community engagement. That work began years ago through founding Celebrate Westwood and continues through new ways of connecting residents with local government, in person and digitally. Beth was at the forefront of Westwoodʼs We want a town, not a city resistance to Trentonʼs earlier push for high-density housing within a half-mile of a train station (Westwood is only 2 1/2 square miles). She now brings that perspective to the Zoning Board. Our paths have overlapped on the Planning Board, including during development of Westwoodʼs Fourth Round affordable housing plan. Lauren continues to work through the remaining legal process

FROM PAGE 2

Frank backs Ganter To the editor: H as a Republi2010–2014, Iandcanas councilmember mayor in 2016 and 2017. SERVED

ILLSDALE

When I vote, I try to select the person whom I feel will be best for Hillsdale. I supported Democrat Michael Sheinfield for mayor, and I am glad I did. He is doing a good job. I also supported the Democratic councilwoman, as I think a local government should contain bipartisan input. However, we need to be cau-

tious. After the 2012 election, while I was on council, there was a change in control of our council from Republican to Democrat, and a period of chaos ensued. Allegedly pushed by party forces from out of town, the new Democratic majority fired our long-serving borough engineer and replaced his firm with a larger firm with little knowledge of our town and much larger fees. They brought in a controversial person for borough attorney. They fired our outside auditor, who knew our finances in detail and hired another firm, perhaps at the direction of their party. And they replaced our longtime local insurance

broker/provider with a politically 7 connected firm from Central New Jersey (who, I say in jest, could not find Hillsdale on a map). The coup was complete with the firing our borough administrator/CFO, which led to a revolving door for what become two positions at extraordinary expense. We still are recovering from this revolving door. We are in the middle of perhaps the highest tax increases in my 51 years in Hillsdale due to the George G. White Middle CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

POWER WASHING PAVERS & PAVER RE-SANDING BOOK YOUR FREE ESTIMATE TODAY!

SCHEDULE YOUR

GUTTER CLEANING NOW!

201-501-8300

SERVING NJ & NY FOR OVER 15 YEARS LIC #13VH09097500

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL All Work 100% Guaranteed • Licensed & Insured

COMBO SPECIAL SMALL / MEDIUM HOUSE

Power Wash Whole House, Gutter Cleaning & up to 30 Exterior Windows Cleaned

549

ONLY

800-2400 SQ. FT.

Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present or mention coupon. Expires 2-28-27.

AllAmericanFacilityServices.com POWER WASHING PATIOS • PATIO RE-SANDING PATIO SEALING -NATURAL OR WET LOOK • CONCRETE NATURAL SEALING WE EXPERTLY CLEAN SKYLIGHTS, HIGH WINDOWS AND GREENHOUSES. WE WASH ALUMINUM & VINYL SIDING, CEDAR, WOOD, BRICK OR STONE WALLS

WINDOW CLEANING Double Hung - Only $8.00 (Reg. $11.00) Double Hung Paned - Only $10.00 (Reg. $13.00) Storm Windows - Only $13.00 (Reg. $16.00) Screen Washing - Only $2.00 INCLUDES INTERIOR / EXTERIOR CLEANING & WINDOW SILL. ASK ABOUT OUR SPECIAL PRICES FOR SKYLIGHTS, FRENCH DOORS, HIGH WINDOWS, OVERSIZE WINDOWS, GREEN HOUSES, ETC. MINIMUM $100 BASE TOTAL OR 15 WINDOWS Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present or mention coupon. Expires 2-28-27.

POWERWASHING PAVERS

GUTTER INSTALLATION

100 OFF 100 OFF Patio & Re-Sanding

Any Job $500 Or More Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present or mention coupon. Expires 2-28-27.

Any New Gutter Installation Of $500 Or More (5” & 6” Gutter Installation & Repair) Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present or mention coupon. Expires 2-28-27.

ROOF WASHING • DECKS • HOMES • PATIOS • DRIVEWAYS • WALKWAYS • POOL DECKS

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Letters:

alongside Mayor Ray Arroyo and borough professionals, defending Westwoodʼs ability to plan for development at densities and scales appropriate for our fully developed community. Affordable housing mandates are only one challenge we continue to navigate. Development intersects with flooding, infrastructure, traffic, parking, emergency services and taxes. Planning responsibly also means supporting a vibrant downtown, protecting our neighborhoods, tree canopy and historic resources, investing in infrastructure and facilities, and ensuring municipal departments and volunteer services remain strong. It means investing in our library, recreation and senior programming, parks and public spaces, and the things that make Westwood a connected community. Neither of us believes Westwood should resist change simply because it is change. We believe in thoughtful progress and understanding the tradeoffs. Our track records show we are willing to ask hard questions and consider long-term consequences before making decisions. Local government requires more than having an opinion. It requires doing the work, listening to residents, communicating clearly, and making difficult choices when necessary. That is the approach each of us brings to public service, and why we are asking Westwood voters for the opportunity to serve on the Borough Council. Lauren Letizia, Council president Beth Staples, Former councilmember Westwood

Merit:

opportunity to compete for approximately 6,700 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $24 million next spring. Semifinalists must meet additional requirements to advance to finalist standing before they can be considered for the scholarships. The path began with the 2025 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, better known as the PSAT/NMSQT. The students took it as juniors; their recognition arrives as they begin their final year of high school.

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FROM PAGE 1

Left: Pascack Hills Commended Students: From left: Assistant Principal Derek Piccini, Abhirv Jatar, Emily Cho, Aanya Sah, Verona Lee, Shaun Wu and Principal Christine Pollinger. Right: Park Ridge High School’s 2027 National Merit Commended Students are, from left, Xander Nakamura, Shannon McDowell, Maggie Rauschenberger and Henry Thayer. Provided photos.

Semifinalists represent less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors and include the highest-scoring entrants in each state. Another approximately 34,000 students receive commendations, placing them among the competitionʼs top 50,000 scorers. At Pascack Valley, Soohooʼs semifinalist designation accompanies commendations for nine classmates: Damian Adamek, Gregory Berde, Ian Chang, Ryan Hannigan, Nicholas Hernandez, Amy Miyata, Dylan Park, Lia Senande and Ariana Velez. Principal John Puccio presented their letters of commendation on behalf of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. At Pascack Hills, Oh joins five classmates receiving recognition as Commended Students: Abhirv Jatar, Emily Cho, Aanya Sah, Verona Lee and Shaun Wu. Principal Christine Pollinger announced the honors. In its message to the school community, Pas-

cack Hills said it hoped the recognition would broaden the studentsʼ educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their academic pursuits. Westwood Regional shared the names of five Commended Students: Alphonsa B. Alexander, Elliott A. Beyer, Nicholas V. Doell, Kate A. Lambert and Kaan K. Noyan. Park Ridge celebrated four: Xander Nakamura, Shannon McDowell, Maggie Rauschenberger and Henry Thayer. Superintendent Patrick D. Bernardo said the district plans to recognize them at a Board of Education meeting in November or December, giving families and the school community another opportunity to applaud their achievement. The list reflects information received from the four schools. Reports from Emerson and local parochial schools were still pending at press time.

The Right Choice... Established in 1965

• Certified Collision Specialist • Expert Refinishing • Complete Frame & Unibody Repair FREE ESTIMATES! ALL REPAIRS FULLY GUARANTEED! WE HANDLE ALL INSURANCE CLAIMS! 36 Orchard Street, Hillsdale, NJ

201-664-2276 www.pascackautobody.com

LIC# 02821A

D&F LANDSCAPING LLC “We Don’t Let Grass Grow Under Our Feet” HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES LANDSCAPE SERVICES • Seasoned Firewood • Pondless Water Features • Spring/Fall Clean-Ups • Mulching • Topsoil • Deco & Drainage Gravel • Core Aeration • Planting • Over Seeding • Fencing • Landscape & Holiday Lighting

• Cleanouts & Demolition • Interior & Exterior Painting • Parking Lot Line Stripping • Drywall Repair & Install • Kitchens & Bathrooms Remodels • Room Renovations • Store & Office Interiors • Landlord Services, Tenant Damage • Property management, and so much more!

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE WESTWOOD, NJ • www.dflandscapingllc.com Residential & Commercial

201-664 - 3130

NJ HIC # 13VH06673400

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OLOHAN@THEPRESSGROUP.NET

PARK RIDGE

Despite warnings from a resident that repealing a local sign ordinance violated state ethical standards and the U.S. Constitution and that repealing it affected an ongoing municipal court case involving a local official, the council approved a repeal ordinance by a 3-0 vote on Sept. 8. “I do believe weʼll live to regret that,” said Mayor Keith Misciagna following the vote. The mayor votes only in case of a tie. Resident Howard Fredrics, whose wife, Lori, has a municipal court case pending against councilor Gregory Hoffman, alleging that Hoffman violated a sign ordinance by placing his political sign on public property and also for using his mobile phone while driving. Ordinance 2026-018 repeals the prior sign ordinance “and makes it align with the Supreme Court ruling where religious and political signs must be treated equally,” explained Borough Clerk Maggie Giandomenico . Voting to approve the new sign ordinance were Bruce Goldsmith, William Fenwick, and John Cozzi. Councilors Michael Mintz and Greg Hoffman abstained from voting. Neither stated a reason, though previously Mintz abstained, noting he was running for reelection and his vote could be seen as a conflict of interest. Fredrics addressed the mayor and council ahead of the vote, alleging that it was an ethical conflict for councilors to repeal an ordinance that would affect the ongoing court case of another local official. However, Fenwick noted that since the revised ordinance was tabled at the July meeting, now neither he nor Hoffman were on the November ballot as they were then. Both Fenwick and Hoffman were “placeholders” for two Republican candidates, who recently took their places (see story, page 12). Moreover, Fenwick said the borough attorney, Brian Giblin, said there was no conflict of interest for either him or Hoffman to vote on the repeal ordinance. Fenwick also claimed that the new ordinance cannot retroactively change the legal consequences or punishment for an action that has already taken place. “There are no ex post facto laws in the U.S.,” Fenwick said, using the legal term.

Affordable Ads You can’t afford not to run in the weekly Pascack Press Service Directory Place your service ad Call 201-664-2105

The new sections state: “Election or political signs, as well as signs for non-profit entities and charities, provided that said signs do not exceed 16 square feet in area. In addition, a person or entity requesting to place election or political signs on public property shall pay a fee in the total amount of Twenty Five Dollars for the permit regardless of the number of signs proposed.” The replaced section notes, “Signs permitted under this section shall be issued “approved” stickers by the Borough and any such sign must have an “approved” sticker affixed if placed on public property. Nothing in this section shall be construed to permit commercial signs to be placed on public property.” Following the vote, Fredrics told us, “They didnʼt just re-introduce the sign repeal — they passed it. But Hoffman abstained, which is an admission that his prior votes in favor, and his having co-sponsored the repeal in the first instance were improper. If as Fenwick insists, there is no conflict of interest, why did Hoffman abstain

this time after voting in favor of repeal on three other occasions? Itʼs called cognizance of guilt. This should be front-page news,” charged Fredrics. In addition to approving 2026-018, council also introduced Ordinance 2026-031 that approved an amended version of the sign repeal but without a permit requirement, and that was reviewed and approved on Sept. 9 by the Planning Board. A public hearing will be held on Sept. 22. Fredrics claims the permit requirement for signs is unconstitutional as it prevents sign posters from being anonymous, which is their constitutional right. Misciagna said he agreed with Fredrics. He said the vote repealing the sign ordinance “doesnʼt look proper… in light of a hearing/trial beginning in the next few weeks. Unfortunately, I do not have the authority to stop it but I think youʼre correct in your argument,” Misciagna told Fredrics. Fredrics told councilors Sept. 8, “If there is a genuine concern about the constitutionality of the

Patricia J. Villano Certified Public Accountant, LLC

Accounting, Tax & Bookkeeping Services For Businesses And Individuals

Closter, NJ www.villano-cpa.com

@PJVCPA (201) 768-5010

current Ordinance, why not table the repeal measure until after the conclusion of the current case before the Court when there can be no appearance of impropriety and no question of potential Ethics

Law violations. Moreover, errors in the stated rationale could then be corrected, and the constitutionality of the permitting requirement could be fully examined and rectified, as needed.”

THE AVERAGE ADULT IS

Missing at Least 2Teeth

You’re not alone. We can help.

Call Dr. Guller today to schedule your

NO COST

IMPLANT CONSULT LIMITED TIME!

Including X-rays and 3D Cone Beam Scan VALUE UP TO $495

Exp 11/30/26

ROBERT H. GULLER, D.M.D. & Associates

201-391-5565 www.pascackdental.com

21 SOUTH KINDERKAMACK RD., MONTVALE, NJ

DENTAL IMPLANTS

CAN HELP!

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

COUNCIL REPEALS SIGN RULE AMID CASE; MAYOR WARNS, ‘WE’LL REGRET THAT’

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

New School Street signs aim at field traffic BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OLOHAN@THEPRESSGROUP.NET

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Police plan to add approximately $250 in signs to discourage wrong-way driving on School Street near Memorial Field, following council concerns about traffic during sporting events. In a separate discussion Sept. 21, police and council members considered a four-way stop at Ridgewood Boulevard North and Manhattan Avenue. Police said

they would check vehicle speeds again after Ridgewood Boulevard North is repaved. School Street carries one-way traffic east toward Pascack Road. Councilmembers said drivers unfamiliar with the area sometimes enter against traffic before, during and after games at Memorial Field, raising concerns about pedestrians and other vehicles. Capt. Michael Glock said he would work with the road department to identify locations for additional one-way arrows and red “Wrong Way” signs on both sides

of the street, approximately 20 yards beyond the entrance used by wrong-way drivers. “It doesnʼt seem to be a drastic problem but it is usually when we have events, or football games that draw out-of-town people here that arenʼt familiar,” Glock told the council. He attributed the turns largely to driver inattention and said additional signs could help, although they would not necessarily prevent every wrong-way entry. Glock estimated one-way signs at approximately $39 apiece

and “Wrong Way” signs at approximately $78 apiece. He said the road department likely already has posts. Township Administrator Mark DiCarlo said sufficient funds were available in the signage account. If the problem persists, Glock said the township could consider pavement warnings. Council President Michael DeSena said the situation is “bad” during baseball and football seasons. He suggested placing oneway signs back to back, an arrangement he said he had seen used effectively elsewhere.

Police report traffic findings Police Chief Arsenio Pecora said six months of speed monitoring on Ridgewood Boulevard North recorded approximately 46,000 vehicles traveling at an average of 28.5 mph. Some drivers were recorded traveling 40 to 50 mph, he said, but those speeds were not the norm. He suggested speeds could increase somewhat after the road is milled and paved. DeSena proposed another speed study after paving, and Pecora agreed. The intersection with Man-

Readers:

Van Emburgh and Washington avenues, where one was expected online within a week. Other locations include Washington Avenue and Pascack Road, and Pascack Road and Ridgewood Avenue. Pecora reported 60 camerarelated summonses, citing unregistered vehicles, suspended driverʼs licenses and warrants among enforcement matters. Data from other Bergen County ALPRs are

FROM PAGE 5

hattan Avenue has stop signs controlling traffic on Manhattan Avenue. Glock said the last crash at the intersection occurred in 2022. Pecora said police would not oppose a four-way stop, but he outlined potential drawbacks. Additional stops can produce noise as vehicles accelerate, he said, and some motorists may speed between intersections. He also said adding a stop could prompt requests for similar measures elsewhere. Councilor Steve Cascio questioned whether a four-way stop would be “overkill” based on the conditions described. He said drivers accustomed to traveling through the intersection might not initially expect the change. Glock described concerns about speeding as a “perception issue,” and DeSena agreed. Pecora said unusually fast drivers attract attention even when most vehicles are traveling more slowly. For comparison, Pecora reported average recorded speeds of 27.8 mph on Colonial Boulevard, 26.4 mph on Beech Street and 30.9 mph on Van Emburgh Avenue. Police also cautioned against estimating vehicle speeds by watching residential securitycamera footage. Glock said Ring videos make speeds difficult to judge. “It looks faster on camera than it truly is,” Pecora said.

stored by the Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office, he said. The system also assisted burglary investigations, including a December 2025 local home invasion, Pecora said. Four people responsible were apprehended in April 2026 after an extensive township Detective Bureau investigation. Asked by Councilor Daisy Velez whether residents could access ALPR footage, Pecora said he did not think so, though they could submit an Open Public Records Act request to find out. He also suggested the data could be subpoenaed.

SELL NOW! Gold is $4,300 ! WE BUY YOUR OLD & NEW:

oz.

47 yrs. at this location

Platinum/Gold Jewelry 10K * 14K * 18K * 22K * 24K Rings, Bracelets, Earrings Diamonds * Watches * State All Sterling Silver * Dental Gold * Broken Jewelry OK Certified Silver Dimes $4.30 * Quarters $10.75 Scales Half $21.50 * Dollars $45.00 ea.

340 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell, NJ

ORADELL COIN

201-265-5310 • Open Mon thru Sat 9am to 12 Noon

25% Bonus With This Ad*

*Except silver coins • Coupon Must be Presented at Start of Transaction.

— Save the Date/Get Involved — MONTVALE — The NJSFWC Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club invites teams of three to five people to compete in a Last Piece Puzzle Race on Tuesday, Sept. 29, at the Montvale Senior Center on Memorial Drive. Doors open at 6 p.m.; play begins at 6:50. The club has served local communities since 1990. For information, visit its Facebook or Instagram pages or email gpvwc1990@gmail.com. Registration is open for rec pickleball lessons, chess club lessons, and TGA evening golf and tennis lessons for grades K–8 at East Brook and West Ridge schools. Visit parkridgeboro.com or call Liz Falkenstern at 201-5731800, ext. 521.

Rec lesson registration

Westwood Rec Catskills bus trip Oct. 14

The Westwood Recreation Department will host a bus trip to Resorts World Catskills on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Tickets cost $90 for residents and $105 for nonresidents and include coach transportation, a luncheon buffet with reserved seating, a $25 slot play card and a matinee performance by Supreme Reflections, a tribute to

The Supremes. Register in person at 55 Jefferson Ave., Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Payment is accepted by credit or debit card, cash or check payable to Borough of Westwood. 201-664-7882.

Emerson Seniors plan haunted places talk, Oktoberfest trip

The Emerson Senior Citizens next meet Thursday, Oct. 8, at noon at the clubhouse, 20 Palisade Ave. Alan Bernstein will give a presentation on haunted places in the area. Fall doughnuts and candy will be served, and attendees are welcome to wear costumes. The club plans an Oktoberfest trip to the Riverview Inn in Matamoras, Pa., on Oct. 14. The cost is $65 for members and $75 for guests. The bus leaves the clubhouse 9 to 9:30 a.m Includes lunch, beer, wine and soda, with dancing and games.

St. Andrew’s 50+ Club strength, balance work

WESTWOOD—St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club meets Wednesday, Oct. 7, at noon in the gym. A certified personal trainer will demonstrate how to build strength and improve balance. Cake and coffee served. New members are welcome. Please bring an item or donation for the food pantry. Call Elaine at 201-664-7037.

HILLSDALE—Registration is open for the St. Johnʼs Sports Association winter basketball program, featuring competitive CYO basketball for boys and girls in grades 3–8 and a Saturday morning instructional clinic for boys and girls in kindergarten through second grade. Registration is first-come, first-served, with no reserved spots. Space is limited by coaching availability, roster sizes and program capacity. Once capacity is reached, applicants will be placed on a waiting list with no guarantee of placement. Volunteer coaches and assistants are needed. Those interested should indicate their availability on the registration form. For details and registration, visit sjsports.org. St. John the Baptist Church is at 69 Valley St.

Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce Citizens of the Year

The awards night dinner runs 6 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, at Seasons in the Township of Washington. This yearʼs honorees are Theresa “Teri” Capparelli and Dr. Peter Wohl. Proceeds support Chamber initiatives, including the Skip Kelley Memorial High

School Scholarship Fund. A portion also will be donated to a charity selected by each honoree. Sponsorship opportunities and auction-item donations are available. For tickets, visit pascackchamber.org/event-details/citizens-of-the-year-awards-2026. For more information visit pascackchamber.org.

Park Ridge-wide garage sale Oct. 17

Park Ridge Rec hosts a townwide garage sale Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rain date Sunday, Oct. 18. Registration and a flyer at parkridgeboro.com. Call Liz at 201-573-1800, ext. 521.

WE BUY

GOLD & SILVER GOLD $4,305oz. SILVER $64.15 oz. JEWELRY REPAIRS ON PREMISE.

POLISHING & RHODIUM PLATING

WE PAY CA$H GOLD, DIAMONDS, SILVER JEWELRY, COINS, FLATWARE & WATCHES PLUS RECEIVE $50 CASH OVER 50 GRAMS OF GOLD WITH THIS AD

289 Pascack Rd. Washington Twp. • (201) 358-9660

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Woman’s Club puzzle race Sept. 29

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Park Ridge Council race gets new challengers BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OLOHAN@THEPRESSGROUP.NET

PARK RIDGE

Two Republican candidates were recently nominated for two council seats up for election Nov. 3, said local Republican officials. Selected by the local Republican County Committee were Marc Weinberg and Sebastian Hennessy, whose names replaced those of councilors William Fenwick and Greg Hoffman, who had served as “placeholders” while the committee vetted potential council candidates.

n Weinberg, Hennessy oppose Dems Metzdorf, Mintz

Fenwick said another candidate was initially interested but dropped from consideration during WEINBERG (R)

HENNESSY (R)

the county committeeʼs selection process. The Republican challengers

METZDORF (D)

MINTZ (D)

will face incumbent Democratic councilors Michael Mintz and Robert Metzdorf, who are running for reelection. The Republicans in “Our Plan for Park Ridge” call for better oversight of the water utility to ensure clean drinking water, along with tax breaks for residents but not for The James mixed-use residential development. (The James received a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement before opening in August 2021.) The candidatesʼ plan also says they will protect the borough “from runaway overdevelopment” and push back against the stateʼs attempts to limit local zoning authority. It calls for increasing support for senior programs and improving local sports fields. Marc Weinberg is a member of the local Planning Board. He and his wife of nearly 20 years have three grown children who attended local schools. While his children were in school, Weinberg also coached recreational baseball and soccer. Weinberg has more than 35 years of business and executive leadership experience. His career is centered on leading organizations, managing financial responsibilities, developing teams and driving accountability, according to his campaign flyer. Sebastian Hennessy is a husband and father of three young children with more than a decade of experience in the insurance industry, where his career has focused on leadership, risk management and helping organizations navigate complex decisions, according to his candidate biography. Hennessy volunteered with Read Ahead, focusing

on youth literacy and mentorship. Residents with questions or concerns for the candidates can email them at PreserveParkRidge@gmail.com. Metzdorf, a 30-year resident, has served nine years on the council. Before that, he served on the Planning Board and coached football, basketball and baseball. While on the council, he served as president, police commissioner, Utility Board liaison, senior citizen liaison, DARE liaison, public safety liaison, Golden Age Club liaison and Tri-Boro Food Pantry liaison. Metzdorf is the father of two children raised in Park Ridge. Mintz, a 28-year resident, has served six years on the council. Before that, he served on the library board, Utility Board, pool commission and Zoning Board. “It's important to mention this because our citizens need people who have a track record of actually doing something,” Mintz told us. Mintz said he was also senior citizen liaison during the COVID pandemic, helping seniors and helping provide food to first responders. He also served as wrestling commissioner and secretary to the Twin County Wrestling League. Mintz is the father of three children raised in Park Ridge. Their “Experience for Park Ridge” platform focuses on property taxes, quality of life and public safety. In bold type under Property Taxes, the flyer reads, “Rob and Mike voted against the 2026 tax increase.” Local officials said the 2026 municipal tax levy, including the library, increased 2.6% over 2025. For a home assessed at the borough average of $475,000, the annual increase was $95—$86 for municipal purposes and $9 for the library. The total municipal budget was nearly $19 million.

THE ORCHARDS OF CONCKLIN

2026 FALL

APPLE PICKING STARTING SEPTEMBER 12 Homemade Pies, Apple Cider & Donuts

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC SAT & SUN 11AM-4PM Pumpkins, Corn Stalks, Hay Bales, Gourds & Mums Available in the Farm Market!

FARM STORE OPEN 7 DAYS 9AM - 5PM **2 S Mountain Rd, Pomona, New York 10970 **When using GPS Use Location Address as: 1010 Rt. 45, Pomona NY 10970

845-354-0369

LARGE SELECTION OF FALL MERCHANDISE!

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

PUMPKINS/GOURDS PUMPKINS/GOURDS BULBS BULBS ORNAMENTAL GRASS ORNAMENTAL GRASS HARDY HARDY MUMS MUMS KALE/CABBAGE KALE/CABBAGE PANSIES PANSIES CORNSTALKS CORNSTALKS HAY HAY BALES BALES SCARECROWS SCARECROWS & & OTHER OTHER FALL FALL DECOR DECOR

% O FF

PE REN NI AL S & S HRU B S

119 HICKORY LANE, CLOSTER, NJ • 201-767-0244 • www.metropolitanfarm.com FARM HOURS: MONDAY - SUNDAY 9AM-6PM

FORT LEE

2125 Fletcher Ave.

PARAMUS

840 Rt. 17 North

WEST CALDWELL

MONDAY-SUNDAY 8AM-7PM

MONDAY-SATURDAY 8AM-7PM, SUNDAY 8AM-6PM

MONDAY-SUNDAY 8AM-6PM

246 Passaic Ave.

1-800-METRO-13 • 201-944 -1050 www.metroplantexchange.com

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

eats

Family fun awaits at Nyack’s Famous Street Fair Oct. 11

Advertisement Enjoy a “do not miss” family fun day at Nyackʼs Famous Street Fair on Sunday, Oct. 11, from 10

Dining & Cooking Guide

a.m. to 5 p.m. along Main, Broadway and Cedar streets in downtown Nyack. Spend a fall day in this his-

Join Us for

Oktoberfest!

ee STARTING SEPTEMBER 18th Time For B Serving Your Favorites... Now Jumbo Bavarian Pretzel Accepting s n Authentic German Sauerbraten Reservatio y a d Bavarian Bratwurst For Holi Bratwurst Platter • Pork Schnitzel Parties! Apple Strudel • Seasonal Beers

Receive 10% Off your entire check

toric Hudson River village while getting a head start on holiday shopping—or finding something special for yourself. More than 300 exhibitors from four states will offer a diverse selection of arts and crafts, new retail items, home decor and unique gifts. Come hungry! Food and drink offerings include the Cousins Lobster truck, Thai dishes, empanadas, sausage and peppers, fried fish, Jamaican and Greek foods, and French and American fare. The popular NY Soda Jerks truck will serve old-fashioned egg creams and more. Nyackʼs out-

door cafes will offer event specials. Music will play at the gazebo, and visitors are encouraged to explore Nyackʼs shops and boutiques.

Sponsored by ACADA of Nyack for more than 50 years, the fair combines shopping, dining and family fun. The event takes place rain or shine. No pets, please. The fair is organized by P.J.ʼs Promotions. For more information, visit www.pjspromotions .com.

Stop In & Check Out The New Ridge!

with this coupon

Limit one per table. May not be combined with any other offers. Dine in only. Not valid on catering or holidays

84 BROADWAY •HILLSDALE NJ, 07642

201.666.8688

www.thecornerstonenj.com

• FULLY RENOVATED • OPEN LATE NIGHT • BRAND NEW DESSERT & COFFEE BAR • NEW MENU

“Where friends meet morning, noon or night”

WE ARE VERY THANKFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

DAILY LUNCH $17-$23 INCLUDES: SOUP OF THE DAY, HOUSE SALAD, ENTREÉ - Monday-Friday 11:30am-3pm

TWO PRIVATE PARTY ROOMS AVAILABLE Book Your Private Party With Us For Bridal Showers, Baby Showers, Christenings, Retirements, Corporate Events, Etc...

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS FOR 6 OR MORE PEOPLE. 201-746-6669

On-line ordering at www.bellissimonj.com

* Complimentary Uncorking Service * Gift es at * On and Off Premise Catering * Certific Available CALL US TODAY FOR DETAILS

WINNER FIVE CONSECUTIVE YEARS 2014-2019

Mon-Thurs 11:30-9 • Fri 11:30-10 • Sat 1-10 • Sun 1-9

Like us on

12 S. Kinderkamack Road• Montvale, NJ (CVS Shopping Ctr.) 201-746-6669 • www.bellissimonj.com

Serving The Community For More Than 50 Years! OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY 7AM-1AM • SUNDAY 7AM-11PM

Dining & Cooking Guide

Back to the canvas, drawn to clay at HFPL truly unique.” Both exhibits are on display during regular library hours at the

Two creative paths meet at Hillsdale Library

MICHAEL JOHNSTON, retirement brought a return to artistic beginnings. For Theresa Zerrenner, a passing curiosity about polymer clay became the focus of her creative work. This September, their paths meet at the Hillsdale Free Public Library, where two exhibits showcase their approaches to art. Johnstonʼs “Creative in Nature” features paintings inspired by the seasons, countryside and other elements of the natural world. Zerrennerʼs “A Life in Polymer Clay” presents handcrafted jewelry, boxes and home dОcor, exploring the possibilities of a material she first tried on a OR

Antonini: FROM PAGE 6

to do because of the path I already chose?” Not, “How will people judge me for starting over?” But, “Given what I know now, what makes sense from here?” Those are very different questions. The past matters. Our experiences matter. The things we have worked for matter. But none of them can make todayʼs decisions

Plenty Of Fresh Fish! Michael Johnston’s “Hildene Farm” and polymer clay jewelry by Theresa Zerrenner offer a sampling of two September exhibits at the Hillsdale Free Public Library: “Creative in Nature” and “A Life in Polymer Clay.”

whim. Johnston discovered art early, taking classes in pottery, photography, drawing and painting. His creative interests eventually became a career: He spent 25 years in advertising, primarily within the healthcare agency networks of McCann-Erickson and Ogilvy. Now retired from agency life, he has returned to his artistic roots. His paintings draw on the beauty and variety of the natural environ-

for us. I sometimes wonder what would have happened if I had never asked that stranger what he did for a living. Perhaps I would have returned fully to pharmacy. Perhaps another opportunity would eventually have appeared. There is no way to know. What I do know is that one ordinary conversation showed me something I have carried through many decisions since: we do not always need a complete plan before allowing ourselves to consider another direction. Sometimes new information enters our lives unexpectedly. A conversation. An opportunity. A

ment to explore a range of artistic ideas. Zerrenner began working with polymer clay in 2019. What started as an experiment developed into an artistic practice centered on the mediumʼs versatility. Her one-of-akind pieces range from wearable jewelry to functional and decorative objects for the home. “Weʼre delighted to bring these two very different artists to the library, allowing our community to experience creativity in different forms,” said Library Director Dave Franz. “Michaelʼs paintings invite us to see the creativity and beauty in the natural world, while Theresaʼs work demonstrates how an unexpected material can become something realization. Something that causes us to look at what we thought was settled and see another possibility. The difficult part is not always recognizing that possibility. Sometimes the difficult part is giving ourselves permission to follow it. I thought I was asking a stranger what he did for a living. I had no idea I was asking a question that would eventually change what I did for mine. v Pascack Press welcomes ranging views from the towns we serve. For submission guidelines, see thepressgroup.net/submissions

Serving STERLING New Jersey ASSOCIATES For 35 Years FINE ANTIQUE AND ART AUCTIONEERS & APPRAISERS

Actively Purchasing & Paying Top Dollar • Fine Art Paintings • Jewelry, Diamonds • Rare Coins • Gold & Silver • Wrist Watches and Fine Time Pieces • Statues & Sculptures Marble and Bronze HOUSE • Antique Lighting CALLS • Fine Porcelain • Military & Sports AVAILABLE Memorabilia

FREE Antique Appraisals

Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave. For more information, visit hfpl.org.

THE ONLY COMPLETE FULL ESTATE SETTLEMENT SERVICE

One Item To Entire Estates Purchase • TOP PRICES PAID • Consign

We offer totally secure financial transactions and professional handling of your items.

Visit Our Gallery at

537 Broadway • Norwood, NJ 07648

Call us 201-768- 1140

www.antiquenj.com • info@antiquenj.com

@anchorseafoodnj

od eafo S ed lect Daily” e S “

2 OFF (201) 930-9170

10 South Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, NJ

COUPON

Any Purchase of $30 or More With Coupon ONLY • Cannot Be Combined • Expires 10/10/26

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

eats

16 ASK THE APPRAISER!

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Magnificent chandelier valued at a hefty $20,000

Hello Jon. Weʼve wanted to ask you about this very large chandelier for some time. According to my late grandfather, he and his father BY JON FELZ helped demolish R.Z.M. FINE the original WalARTS & ANTIQUES INC. dorf Astoria Hotel in New York City in the late 1920s to make way for the Empire State Building. He said this chandelier was going to be discarded, so he retrieved it from a junk pile on the street out-

4Senior appraiser Jon Felz of R.Z.M. Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. answers your questions on fine art, American coins, and great antiques. Send your questions and photos to rzmantique@aol.com

side the demolished building and took it home to Queens. Iʼve owned it since the early 1980s and have no idea what to do with it. It currently hangs from two iron beams in my garage. It is very heavy and measures about 60 inches tall. Can you identify its manufac-

turer, approximate age and potential value? I may be wrong, but I think it is valuable. Thank you for your help. We love your article each week. — Nancy

Hi, Nancy, It seems every grand crystal light fixture Iʼve encountered over the years allegedly escaped from the Titanic, the Waldorf Astoria or the Rockefeller estate. Establishing provenance requires evidence beyond family lore. The original Waldorf Astoria Hotel opened in 1893. If your chandelier dates to that era, its manufacturing methods can offer clues. Wiring is especially useful: Fixtures from the 1890s were often “gasoliers,” built for gas, or early conversions to electricity. In my opinion, you own a magnificent French gilt-bronze 21-light chandelier dating to the late 19th century. Its imposing scale and exceptional sculptural richness make it a tour de force of Parisian decorative art. The expansive circular corona is surmounted by stylized foliate motifs and supports a suspended etched-glass bowl within a deeply pierced framework of C-scrolls. Acanthus-leaf finials crown the composition, while finely modeled mermaids hold candle

not establish that it hung there. Chandeliers of this elaborate type reflect the craftsmanship of leading late-19th-century Parisian bronziers, including workshops such as that of Ferdinand Barbedienne, whom I recently wrote about. This comparison does not establish a maker for your chandelier. The mythological figures, luxuriant foliage and superb gilding exemplify the Belle Époque taste for monumental lighting that bridges functional objects and decorative art. Its substantial size and specialized installation requirements limit the pool of potential buyers. Despite its artistic merit, its The circular corona is surmount- market value depends heavily on ed by stylized foliate motifs and finding someone with both the supports a suspended etched-glass space and the design need for bowl within a deeply pierced such a fixture. framework of C-scrolls. Leaf finials Taking those factors into crown the composition, while finely account, I estimate its market modeled mermaids hold candle value at $20,000. The Waldorf branches aloft Astoria connection remains unsubstantiated; a period photobranches aloft, lending movement graph showing the chandelier in the hotel would help establish and theatricality. Its lavish sculptural bronze that provenance. and commanding proportions would have suited a grand hotel R.Z.M. Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. is based at 132 Dexter Ave., such as the Waldorf Astoria, Pearl River, N.Y. where scale and brilliance were Call (845) 735-1313 essential to the architectural Visit rzmantiques.com effect. Suitability, however, does

MOVING? DOWNSIZING?

40 YEARS OF SERVICE TRAVELING NATIONALLY FOR ACQUISITIONS, CONSULTING, & APPRAISAL TASKING.

Thoughts amid Healthy Aging Month

EPTEMBER

is Healthy Aging Month, a reminder that growing older does not automatically mean losing strength independBOOST YOUR or BRAIN POWER ence. Aging is By Dr. Eric Kaplan, inevitable, but our daily choicDC, DACNB, es can help supFACFN, FABVR port how well we live. The goal is not merely to live longer, but to improve our quality of life. Healthy aging means preserving the ability to think clearly, move confidently, enjoy relationships, and continue doing things that bring purpose and fulfillment. The body retains the capacity to adapt throughout life. The brain can form new connections, muscles can grow stronger,

and balance can improve with practice. One guiding principle is simple: your body responds to how you use it. Learning challenges the brain. Exercise strengthens muscles. Weight-bearing activity supports bones. Practicing balance helps maintain stability. These habits can help us remain active and independent. Movement is one of our most valuable tools. Walking, swimming, strength training, stretching, and balance exercises support physical health and everyday function. Even modest activity can improve energy, mood, and quality of life. Find activities you enjoy and can practice consistently, adapting them to your abilities. The brain also benefits from lifelong learning. Reading, playing a musical instrument, solving puzzles, volunteering, and acquiring new skills provide

mental stimulation. Meaningful conversations offer another opportunity to stay curious and engaged. Learning does not end at retirement; it can remain a rewarding part of daily life. Nutrition matters, too. Vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, lean proteins, and adequate hydration help supply the nutrients needed to maintain muscles and support overall health. Reducing highly processed foods and excess sugar is another practical step toward healthier eating. Sleep can become more challenging with age, yet it remains essential to memory, mood, and physical recovery. A consistent sleep routine deserves the same attention as exercise and nutrition. Persistent sleep problems are worth discussing with your healthcare provider. Social connections are equally important. Staying

involved with family, friends, community organizations, faith groups, or volunteer activities provides emotional support and mental stimulation. Time with grandchildren and younger generations can bring joy and a sense of connection. Make room for relationships as deliberately as you make room for other healthy habits. Preventive healthcare also becomes increasingly valuable. Discussing changes in memory, balance, concentration, or sleep with a healthcare professional can help identify concerns and guide appropriate care. Do not assume that every new difficulty is simply part of getting older. In recognition of Healthy Aging Month, we are offering a diagnostic test called a VNG and a one-on-one evaluation with me for only $21 each (normally $600). VNG is a noninvasive test

that records eye movements to help evaluate the systems involved in balance. An individual evaluation gives us an opportunity to discuss your concerns and appropriate next steps. To learn more, call or text 201-261-2150, email info@ kaplanbrainandbody.com, or visit www.kaplandc.com. You can also tune into my radio show, Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan, every Saturday at 8 a.m. on AM 970 and again at 2 p.m. on AM 710, where we discuss practical ways to improve brain function and overall health naturally. Follow Kaplan Brain & Body on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for educational videos and daily health tips. Pick up a copy of my book, “Boost Your Brainpower: A Guide to Improving Your Memory and Focus,” for additional strategies to support lifelong brain health.

U.S. Marine vet visits Park Ridge Owls Ask the Dentist: PASCACK VALLEY

Marine veteran and Post 153 American Legion Commander Ryan OʼHara recently visited the Park Ridge High School football team during practice to discuss hard work, discipline, and commitment beyond the field. OʼHara served for 10 years, including time in Afghanistan, as a Force Recon Marine and special operations veteran. A former high school football player and wrestler, he shared lessons from his military service with the Owls. “Thank you for visiting The Nest,” the team wrote. Bob Kelly of the post tells Pascack Press, “One of the pillars of the American Legion is Youth activities. Ryan has worked with the Park Ridge Athletic association in that endeavor as well as with the Boy Scouts.”

Nitrous Oxide Q & A

Question: Nitrous Oxide – what does it do and is it safe? J.T., Paramus Answer: Nitrous Oxide is also known ROBERT H. GULLER, D.M.D OF PASCACK DENTAL ARTS as laughing gas is colorless and slightly sweet smelling. It was first recognized as being medically useful in dentistry as far back as 1844, although it was first discovered around 1772. After inhaling a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, the gas enters the blood stream through the alveoli in the lungs and is then carried by the blood to the brain where it reacts with neuronal receptors to produce anti-anxiety, analgesic (pain relief) and euphoric effects. Patients may experience temporary numbing or tingling in extremities, dissociation (detaching from reality) and mild dream-like states. Nitrous oxide has an excellent safety record when administered properly to healthy individuals. Heart and breathing functions are only minimally affected by its use and in fact asthma suf-

ferers can be given laughing gas because it actually dilates or opens up the bronchioles in the lungs to allow easier breathing. Nitrous oxide is also helpful for patients who have an elevated gag reflux and it is safe for pediatric dental patients. Laughing gas should not be used on pregnant women especially during the first trimester due to the fact that it readily enters fetal circulation. Schizophrenic and bipolar patients should not normally be given nitrous oxide if they are being treated with psychiatric medications due to possible interactions. Patients with blocked middle ear and those who are immune compromised should also inform their dentist and consult their physician before using nitrous oxide. As with all medications, nitrous oxide is extremely effective and useful when utilized properly. Discuss its use with your dentist if you feel it would help you with your dental treatment. For questions about this and other dental procedures contact Dr. Guller at info@pascackdental.com or call (201) 3915565.

Standing by to spread the word DR. ERIC KAPLAN, DC

Pascack Press is your newspaper. Send your family milestones to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

a passion to serve our community. Over the past 20 years, I have Risbud for Toms, Ianni opening? been honored to chair and serve Letters: To the editor: the ghosts and connect in Letizia, on countless boards that span youth sports, school PSOs, church/parish leadership, and School and sports fields projects. Igoblins of upcoming Halloween Staples general charitable causes. Prior to We already have a bipartisan coun- that are continuing to delay and Hillsdale their terms as elected members of cil and an effective Democratic plague the long promised open- To the editor: To the editor: mayor. We canʼt afford the chaos ing of River Valeʼs new public continues to be a our town council, both Lauren east side of Hillsof a changeover in all our critical safety building. It has been a pret- Idale and have minimal cellular W draw for new residents, par- and Beth also served our commurelationships and services. We ty scary ride, what with construc- coverage. Iʼm not alone. My neigh- ticularly for families looking for nity in countless volunteer roles HOPE IT IS NOT

FROM PAGE 7

should learn from our mistakes. I support the election of Danielle Ganter to Hillsdale Borough Council, and urge our residents to do the same. Respectfully, Douglas Frank Hillsdale

Tricks, treats, and a grand

tion costs more than doubling, from $7 million to more than $15 million over the six- to sevenyear construction period since the project was conceived in 2020. Only thing scarier was the continuing jump in taxpayer tax rates, which does not concern the town mayor and council. Hopefully, the buildingʼs completion will be in time to accommodate Halloweenʼs scary visitors. Joseph Gould River Vale

L. SCOTT BERKOBEN, P.A. A Professional Corporation

Attorneys at Law

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

Experienced Municipal Prosecutors and Defenders

Visit our website: www.lscottberkobenpa.com

211 Center Ave., Westwood • (201)666-7770

Dr. Robin Semegran Dr. Lorenzo Stampone Optometric Physicians

LIVE ON THE

bors are also desperate for coverage. This isnʼt about convenience; itʼs about public safety. I attend council meetings, and I watched the testimony and deliberations concerning alternatives. The vote for a cell tower at Stonybrook failed by a 4-2 vote. The proposed tower would provide necessary coverage and as much as $100,000 through rental agreements between the borough and the providers. Iʼve been speaking during public comment at council meetings and have told true stories of people needing emergency assistance who were deterred by a lack of cell coverage. Itʼs easy to identify these events; they happen all the time. The next incident could be your parent. The Republican platform includes a vague promise to expand connectivity, look for options and next-generation solutions, and continue to try to compel the phone carriers to install dozens of individual small cells (with no power backup). This problem has been considered for years, and there is no viable alternative to address this public safety need. Instead of reducing our tax burden by generating revenue for the town, heʼd pass those costs on to the residents. Thatʼs a double hit. No cell tower, no revenue and a bill for private satellite service. That doesnʼt make sense. Dena Toms and Gabriella Ianni support a cell tower for the east side. On Nov. 3, Iʼm voting for them. For our safety, Iʼm asking you to do the same. Rick Savino Hillsdale

ESTWOOD

great neighbors, a strong feeling of community, tremendous public spaces, and a thriving downtown. This is the result of decades of stalwart stewardship and a continual spirit to better position ourselves to preserve the best parts of what makes Westwood a place we are proud to call home. Iʼve had the honor and privilege to serve our community alongside Councilwoman Lauren Letizia and former Councilwoman Beth Staples on the Westwood Planning Board. Without fail, both Lauren and Beth continue to impress with their valuable knowledge and passion about the key land use issues, including our ongoing uphill battle with stateimposed affordable housing mandates for our local communities. More than ever, it is missioncritical that our elected officials are well versed in these matters. Both Lauren and Beth are uniquely qualified given their tenure on our land use boards, both as volunteers and members of the governing body. Iʼve been honored to serve on the Westwood Planning board for over 12 years, and in that time both Lauren and Beth have distinguished themselves with their well-researched contributions and keen insights on how we can continue to improve our vision to deliver a better Westwood for all of our residents! Their individual contributions are evident throughout our Master Plan, specifically on issues involving downtown parking, as well as uses, development, and implementation of the Boroughʼs affordable housing plan. Iʼm thankful to all of our Westwood residents that also share

that provided support and comfort to many organizations in Westwood. Iʼm deeply thankful to both of them for their years of service to the borough in all capacities. I ask that you join me in supporting these amazing Westwood residents with your vote on Election Day – Tuesday Nov. 3! I am confident that Westwood will continue to thrive with Lauren Letizia and Beth Staples as members of our Borough Council! Yash Risbud Westwood Member, Westwood planning and recreation boards; past president, Westwood Baseball Association

County deserves fair share of school aid To the editor: of another school year, it is once W again time to address how Bergen ITH THE START

County is being shortchanged when it comes to state school aid. School taxes are a major driver of property taxes in Bergen County, placing a significant burden on senior citizens and middle class families who are struggling to remain in their homes. Fighting for a fairer share of school funding for Bergen County should be a top priority. Despite sending more money to Trenton than any other county, Bergen County school districts receive among the lowest levels of state school aid. The numbers are striking. According to the New Jersey Department of Education, Bergen County is slated to receive approximately $535 million in state school aid for the 2026–27 school year. That may sound like a lot, but compare it with Essex County, which is slated to receive approximately $2.16 billion and several other counties will receive more than $1 billion. This disparity matters to Bergen County taxpayers because when Trenton provides less aid to our school districts, local taxpayers must make up the difference through higher property taxes. Bergen County homeowners already face some of the highest property tax burdens in the nation. Because school taxes make up the largest portion of our property tax bills, the stateʼs school funding formula is a critical issue for families and seniors alike. As someone who has served CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

F R I E N D S O F T H E PA S C A C K B R O O K

2026

Thanks to all who have made our contests so successful over the years by giving their time and donations. th

34 ANNUAL FISHING CONTEST Dennis Burke Foundation For ALS Becker Funeral Home Borough Of Hillsdale Borough Of Westwood Burton Agency Dr. Galitsis & Bovino LLC Dutra Sewer And Water HoHoKus PBA Local 353 Preppy Pampered Pets Richard Baudistel Stein & Son Excavating Temco Air Conditioning Westwood Elks 1562 Hillsdale Fire Department Grainview Design In Memory of Richard Arigot Paramus PBA 186 American Legion Post 162 Belsky Museum Closter NJ Billy Meyer Bob Hitscherich Esq. Brian & Danielle Stewart & Family Bruno Taveroni Painting Burke Built Construction C. Kirk Photography Carl Feurbach Painting Carlo Camerini Correri Family Davis Sport Shop Daylight Design (Skylights) Diana Frassa Domani Ristorante Italiano F&S Friendly Service Falasca Friendly Service The Game Zone Heiser Family In Memory of Rich Correri James Widowski Jewelers Work Bench Jim & Gina DePalma Jim Frantin Plumbing John & Helanae Cangelosi

Karen Kirk & Family John Hering Painting John P. Cangelosi John Sayers John Widowski Judy Sappah Ken Bauer Kitchens The Arigot Family Kurt Wolckenhauer Lou’s Tavern Luciano Family Luxury Utensils Marsala Hardware Marty Seitz

Mike & Jill Dutra & Family Mike Travis Jr. Pascack Auto Body Pascack Dental Pasquino Family Pat Feuerbach Patt Graham Patrick Kirk Pinke Brown Families Reigning Cats & Dogs Ricciardi Brothers Paint Goens Family Sgt Stewart Great Catch Award Shave Bar & Barber Shop

Sons of American Legion Hillsdale Steve Adrian Timmy’s Service Center Total Tee & Signs Vinler Electric Hillsdale DPW Westwood DPW Veolia Water St. John’s Baptist Church Trash-It All American Chimney Mayor Arroyo Gary Burkmeister Margaret McDonough M&M Dock King Daly Family Park Ridge Dunkin Donuts John Cabrera In Memory of John Kirk Jeffrey & Jennifer Morris Mayor Sheinfeld Mike & Shannon Jack Ackerman Pat Delehanty & Family Camerato Family Jim Scanlan Norton Paint Jill Cohn Briscoe Family Teta Family Donny Averna Kirk Contracting In Memory Of Kevin J. Kirk Nancy Cicala Dan Conte, Hillsdale Rec. Dept. Burton Agency Demarest Farms Winkler Family In Memory Of Peggy Kirk McNamara Ms. Marilyn J. Clark Joe Burns

U.S. Auixilary Coast Gaurd

Members: Rick Winkler, Carl Feuerbach, John Hering, Tom Kirk III, Mike Travis, Thomas Kirk Jr., Bill Tristram, Curt Briscoe, Frank Maniaci, Nick Luciano, Brenda Kirk & Mike Smyth A VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION 100% SUPPORTED BY YOUR DONATIONS. PO BOX 84 HILLSDALE, NJ 07642

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Kid’s Trout

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

When should you change your investment strategy? Advertisement OU

MAY

take a “set it and forget it” approach to investing. But over time, life ERIC KOHLMEIER events, the timing of when you need the money, and market events are likely to compel you to revisit your strategy. Here are some things to consider when they arise. Dealing with life events Events — both expected and

unexpected — like the following could cause a change in your longterm goals and time horizon: • Graduation • Marriage, divorce or remarriage • Birth of a child or grandchild • Change in health status • Job loss, retirement or early retirement • Death of a loved one These types of events may prompt you to revisit your investment strategy, and in fact, they may be good reasons to make changes. Do you need to reprioritize your investment goals, spending, or how

Investment and Insurance much debt you need to pay down? Products are: Before you reallocate your investments, remember to plan • Not Insured by the FDIC or Any with the same careful consideration Federal Government Agency you gave to creating your original • Not a Deposit or Other investment strategy. Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate Responding to market action • Subject to Investment Risks, In addition to life events, you Including Possible Loss of the Principal may want to revisit your investment strategy during periods of Amount Invested

market volatility. Is that college tuition, mortgage or vacation payment nearer than you anticipated, making you realize that you may need to be more conservatively invested?

It is worth noting that your time horizon for needing the money is the key factor here. Avoid making emotional decisions based on todayʼs 24/7/365 news cycle. It can be tempting to react to headlines when you might be better off simply riding out volatility if you

have a longer time horizon. That doesnʼt mean you should never respond to market action. However, itʼs often a good idea to think long and hard before you change — or, at the extreme, abandon — your strategy.

This article was written byWells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of FA Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director – Investments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472. 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. ©2023 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. PM-120320267425974.1.26

Start Your Holiday Shopping!

Harvestfest Fair 125 QUALITY EXHIBITORS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 • 10AM TO 5PM Veterans Park - Corner of Broadway & 3rd Ave., Westwood

Crafts, Art, Gifts And Antique Corner! FREE ADMISSION - Rain or Shine Promoted by: P.J.’s Promotions

201-410-5416 • www.pjspromotions.com Sponsored by: Westwood Recreation

Expert Repairs Performed By An Experienced And Professional Team

Certified Foreign & Domestic Collision Experts

WE WORK WITH ALL INSURANCE COMPANIES • 24 hour emergency towing with our own trucks • Estimates are always FREE • License #02043A • Frame Straightening • Restoration • Custom Painting • Dent & Scratch Removal • Interior Repair

OUR WORK IS 100% GUARANTEED.

www.richsautospecialists.com HOURS: M-F 8AM-5PM • SAT 8AM-12PM

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Letters:

for nearly a decade on a local Board of Education, I have seen firsthand the challenges facing both our schools and our taxpayers. Responsible local budgeting and strong schools should not have to come at the expense of homeowners who are already carrying an enormous tax burden. This is not a partisan issue; it is about fairness, accountability, and ensuring that Bergen County taxpayers receive equitable treatment from Trenton. The bottom line: When one

FROM PAGE 18

county pays the most but gets the least, something is seriously wrong. Bergen County taxpayers deserve a school funding system that recognizes both the needs of our students and the extraordinary burden being placed on local property owners. John Dinice Mahwah Candidate for Bergen County Commissioner

Monopole at Stonybrook remains a

bad option To the editor: to learn IToms, that Gabriella Ianni and Dena candidates for Hillsdale T WAS DISAPPOINTING

Borough Council, are committed to resuscitating the rejected proposal for a huge cell tower overlooking Stonybrook Pool. Opposition to a 130-foot monopole hovering over Stonybrook Pool was expressed by a clear majority of participants in open council sessions, including 19 of 23 speakers immediately before councilʼs vote rejecting that proposal. Those opponents were not opposed to cell service

improvements per se, just to the initial solution and location that Verizon had proposed. In earlier meetings, Verizon representatives showed a bubbleshaped map purporting to show areas with poor reception. That map was surprising to us. We live right in the middle of the bubble and have no cell reception issues. If memory serves, most or all the residents with reception issues were Verizon subscribers. We use a different carrier. The nature and extent of the reception issue remains unclear. Does it apply to all carriers? Are there simply gaps that can be resolved by more modern small cell and other technologies that would be much less intrusive than a giant monopole? These questions require systematic study. Happily, council has already bolstered public safety by funding a secure communications system for first responders, AT&T FirstNET. That measure alone should ensure that police, firefighters, and EMTs will be able to send and receive vital communications. The losses to quality of life and property values in neighbor-

ing homes will be real. Some directly back onto, or are across the street from, the proposed site, which will contain not only an industrial monopole but typically a mechanical enclosure with cabling, HVAC, blowers, and backup generators. The negative impact of cell towers on property values has been extensively studied, with findings showing that cell towers typically lowered the sale value of homes within a 1,000-foot radius. In Hillsdale, there are dozens of homes within this area. Should any homeowner be expected to suffer such losses when even basic questions remain unanswered? A monopole at Stonybrook Pool would also mar that community-wide asset. As existing technologies evolve and as new ones come onto the market, it does not make sense to commit to a large permanent structure involving longterm obligations and collateral damage. Respectfully, Harold B. Shill Hillsdale

Library plans book tasting, glow yoga, mini golf

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON — The Township library has a fall lineup for children, teens and adults, from sampling books to playing mini golf. • Book Tasting: Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 3:45 p.m., for grades 1–5. Miss Marie and Miss Christina will introduce books in different genres, sending readers home with a “menu” of titles to explore. Registration is required. • Monster Glowga: Thursday, Oct. 1, at 6 p.m. Miss Marie leads kids, teens and adults through blacklight yoga. Dress for movement and to glow, and bring a mat if available. Registration is required. • Mini Golf: Sunday, Oct. 4, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Neurodiverse children, teens, adults and their families are invited to play at their own pace at Paramus Mini Golf. Christina and Allyssa will join participants for apple cider and donuts. Register through the library. • Social Mah Jongg: Select Mondays at 1 p.m.—Oct. 5 and 12, Nov. 2 and 9, and Dec. 7. Bring your group and a set, or borrow a library set with your library card. Coffee and tea will be served. • Monster Movie Mania:Wednesdays, Oct. 14, 21 and 28, at 1 p.m. Enjoy classic films featuring iconic

monsters and familiar scary stories. Movie titles are listed on the libraryʼs website. • Sweater Mending: Saturday, Oct. 17, at 2 p.m. Learn to repair and embellish woolens through needle felting with Clover Folk Studio. Bring wool or wool-blend sweaters, hats or scarves. Registration is required. Contact the library to register and for additional information. Museum passes offer a window into history A library card can open doors to more than books. To mark the nationʼs 250th anniversary, the library has added museum passes offering opportunities to explore art, history and New Jerseyʼs Revolutionary heritage. Learn more at twpofwashingtonpl.org.

Power Power Washing Washing && Gutter Gutter Cleaning Cleaning ANY 10% 10% OFF OFF ANY JOB JOB

• Gutter Installation & Repairs • Soft Washing

RIVERVALE, NJ PROFESSIONALS

201.284.9497

allbrightecowash.com Call Call Now Now For For Your Your Free Free Estimate! Estimate! Lic# 13VH090443900

_____ June 9, 2004 • Pascack Press

GOODYEAR • BFG • BRIDGESTONE • GENERAL • YOKO

(Located Directly Behind Burger King)

95 BERTHOUD STREET • PARK RIDGE, NJ • (201)782-0033

FREE Safety Check While Your Vehicle Is Here! Check All Fluids Check Tire Wear Check Tire Pressure Check Brakes Test Battery Lubricate Door Hinges & Locks Test Anti Freeze

www.parkridgeautonj.com

COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE FACILITY

ANCE AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE $

IS YOUR AIR CONDITIONING

ENOUGH?

HIGH?

$25.00 OFF 25 OFF

EVACUATE • RECHARGE • DYE INCLUDED

Any Air Conditioning Service Or Repair (R1234YF ADDITIONAL COST) Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

d Vehicle.

FULL SYNTHETIC TRANSMISSION FLUSH LUBE, OIL & FILTER $ RADIATOR SPECIAL OTATION, BALANCE

ONLY 189.95

ONLY 99.95

$ GNMENT CHECK Up To 5 Quarts Reg.

Replace 100% of your Transmission Fluid with Save XTREME Transmission $20.00 Fluid Service. $69.80 Some imports slightly higher • with •this coupon Drain Rust & Contaminants From Radiator Cooling TRADITIONAL SERVICESSystems ONLY REPLACE 30%. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26 Cars. Includes fluid & labor. Offer expires 10/31/26 • Inspect Belts, Hoses & Water Pumps Most • Includes Up to 2 Gallons Of Coolant Balance 4 Tires • Alignment Check

Y $29.95

ONLY $24.95

ARS • with this coupon• SAVE $40.00 ot valid with other of fers or prior services. Offer expires6-30-04

MOST CARS • with this coupon

RADIATOR SPECIAL ALIGNMENT SPECIAL Not valid with other of fers or prior services. Offer expires6-30-04 Save $20.00

$ ONLY ONLY 89.95 BRAKE$ SERVICE E, OIL & FILTER • Drain Rust & Contaminants From Radiator Cooling Systems • Inspect Belts, Hoses & Water Pumps • Includes Up to 2 Gallons Of Coolant

LY $16.95

99.95 $25.00 OFF

To 5 Quarts

Any Brake Service BRAKE SERVICE

MOST CARS • with this coupon Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

SUPER SAVINGS s slightly higher • with this coupon

her of fers or prior services. Offer expires 6-30-04

TESLA

• Cooling System • Tires • Brake Systems • Belts & Hoses Full Service & Maintenance SERVING • Shocks & Struts • Oil Changes Performed Here. • Air Conditioning THE PASCACK • Exhaust System VALLEY • Towing • Wheel Alignments SINCE 1993! • Timing Belts • Tune-Ups • Computer • Balancing • Transmission Serviced Diagnostic Repairs

with this coupon Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

with this coupon

Not valid with other of fers or prior services. Offer expires 6-30-04

FALL MAINTENANCE SPECIAL

ONLY 119.95 $

• Up To 2 Gallons Antifreeze • Inspect All Belts & Hoses • Oil, Lube & Filter • 4-Tire Rotation

With this coupon • Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

LUBE, OIL & FILTER (COVENTIONAL OIL)

ONLY $39.95 Up To 5 Quarts

Some imports slightly higher • with this coupon

Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

SHOCKS & STRUTS

$ 20 OFF 10 OFF Each Strut Each Shock

with this coupon Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

4-TIRE ROTATION, BALANCE & ALIGNMENT CHECK

$ 25.00 OFF ONLY $49.95 25.00 OFF SUPER SAVINGS CKS & STRUTS Any Set of 4 Tires Any Brake Service

with this coupon Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

FF $10 OFF Each Shock ut with this coupon

with this coupon

$15.00 OFF

Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

Reg. $69.80

Rotate 4 Tires • Balance 4 Tires • Alignment Check MOST CARS • with this coupon• SAVE $40.00 Not valid with other offers or prior services. Offer expires 10/31/26

GOODYEAR •• BRIDGESTONE BRIDGESTONE GENERAL GENERAL •• YOKOHAMA YOKOHAMA •• TOYO TOYO •• CONTINENTAL CONTINENTAL •• GOODYEAR DUNLOP •• PIRELLI PIRELLI •• MICHELIN MICHELIN •• COOPER COOPER ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT SPECIALIST •• DUNLOP

Any Set of 4 Tires

Scheduled Reserve Your Tires Now - Call In Advance 201-782-0033 Maintenance

her of fers or prior services. Offer expires6-30-04

with this coupon

Not to be combined • Of fer expires6-30-04

Free Pick Up & Delivery (within 5 miles) • Brand New State-Of-the-Art Equipment! • Early Drop-Off Available HOURS: MON.-FRI. 7:30-6:00 • SATURDAY 7:30-4:00

- Call In We Advance 201-782-0033 Will Not We Will Not Be Be Undersold! Undersold!

EN DISCOUNT OVER $50

New State-Of-the-Art Equipment! • Early Drop-Off Available

DEALER PRICES TOO HIGH?

Let Park Ridge Auto service your New or Leased Vehicle!

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Fall Service Specials Discount Discount Tire Tire Park Ridge &&Auto Auto Center Center 15

COUNT TIRE CENTER

Libraries:

the beginning,” he said. The Bergen County Cooperative Library System had set a modest starting goal: Visit at least three member libraries between June 15 and Aug. 15, find a hidden purple BCCLS logo, and have a paper passport stamped. Each stamp counted as an entry in a drawing for one of two $50 Visa gift cards, one for an adult and one for a child. Lowʼs final tally covered 62 Bergen County locations, the Louis Bay 2nd Library in Hawthorne, and the main North Bergen library. Fort Lee was stop No. 64. When he returned to Montvale Free Public Library, Director Giulia Bombace said, he was “like a kid in a candy store.” He had plenty of company in his enthusiasm, even if he did not meet other stamp collectors on his rounds. Across BCCLS, participants returned 593 forms—224 from adults and 369 from children—representing 7,515 library visits, according to project lead Marcia Literati, assistant director of Tenafly Public Library. Three people visited all 86 participating locations, and four others reached 84. The system has 78 member libraries, some with multiple locations. The adult prize winner is from Paramus and the child winner from Elmwood Park, Literati said. Names and photographs were pending notification of the winners. Low had never needed a prize to make libraries appealing. He grew up in Dallas, where his mother took him and his brother to the library. He later studied mathematics at the University of Texas at

Left, Paul Low with Montvale Public Library Director Giulia Bombace; Low’s welltraveled “Stamp Your Way Around BCCLS” passport. Courtesy photos.

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FROM PAGE 1

Austin and earned a masterʼs degree in operations research and statistics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. His favorite library is the one in UT Austinʼs landmark Tower. “Itʼs a whole world thatʼs open to you if you just take advantage of it,” he said. Before the BCCLS promotion, he had already set himself a goal of visiting the systemʼs libraries. In June 2025, he photographed nine of them. Then, early this summer, he spotted the passport display at Montvale. “My goodness, I was totally in,” he recalled. “Hereʼs an organized challenge built around something Iʼd already decided to do.” His first stamps came July 2 at Montvale and Upper Saddle River, the libraries he uses most often. By July 14, he had 25. Then vacations, pickleball and time with his grandchildren competed for space on the calendar. The Aug. 15 deadline held firm. Bookmarked, if you will. With about two weeks left, Low put his analytical skills to work. He built a Google Sheet of library names, counties, addresses and visit

dates, imported the locations into Google Maps and organized them into color-coded layers. From there, he plotted routes to keep driving between stops to a minimum. “Maps are the way to organize things for me,” he said. On Aug. 11, he collected 11 stamps, sweeping through Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Englewood, Harrington Park, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Park Ridge, River Vale, and Tenafly. On Aug. 14, he collected 12— and he had started after lunch. Not every stop cooperated with the itinerary. At Wallington, a sign announced a closure for staff training. Low continued on his route and circled back. Once inside, a staff member spotted his passport and wanted to hear about the adventure. Low wanted to talk, too. But other libraries would soon close. “I had an agenda,” he said. Hillsdale made him work for its stamp. The hidden logo was tucked into a coin spiral display, visible by

looking down from the third floor toward an open area on the second. Finding it took two tries. “They decided itʼs a scavenger hunt—weʼre going to make it challenging,” he said. Montvaleʼs logo was across from the circulation desk. Staff could help a stumped visitor with a simple instruction: Turn around. Even at his busiest, Low found reasons to linger. Glen Rock and Oradell had especially cozy reading areas. Bergenfieldʼs open interior and staircases stayed with him. At Hackensackʼs Johnson Public Library, the hunt drew him into the historic portion of the building. Westwood was already familiar territory: He and his wife, Corinne, attend its annual Manhattan Short film program. “Every library is unique,” Low said. “The librarians and staff give each library its own personality.” That discovery was exactly what the organizers had hoped to encourage.

OBITUARIES

Eileen Kraft DePIERO

Eileen Kraft DePiero, 90, passed peacefully from this world at home, in the presence of loving family, on Sept. 15, 2026. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 65 years, Jim, and is survived by their five children as well as her brother, Donald Kraft (Gail). Eileen was born in Teaneck and grew up in Teaneck and Woodcliff Lake. She attended Park Ridge High School, where, at the age of 13, she met the love of her life, Jim DePiero. Eileen participated in the color guard and choral groups and served as class treasurer. She was the life of the party, both confident and outgoing, with a joie de vivre and genuine love for her friends. Following high school, Eileen attended Fairleigh Dickinson College and received her associate degree in medical assisting. On June 8, 1957, she and Jim married and began a life together filled with love, joy and faith. They welcomed five children into their world: Jim DePiero (Jane), Denise Surdoval (Donald), Lauren Davidson (Kevin), Leslie DePiero and Jennifer DePiero (Jamie). This family of seven grew over the years to include spous-

es, partners, 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Eileen loved a full house and made planning and executing large events seem effortless. The home she shared with Jim was always open and welcoming to family and friends alike. Visitation was Sunday, Sept. 20 at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood. Mass was Monday, Sept. 21 at Our Lady Mother of the Church, Woodcliff Lake. In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Eileen to The Valley Hospital Foundation, Valley Hospice, at ValleyHospitalFoundation.org/donate. Becker-FuneralHome.com.

John DOYLE SR.

John Doyle Sr., 73, passed away on Aug. 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. John was the beloved husband of Erma Doyle and a devoted father to his two children, John Doyle Jr. (Katherine) and Loretta Scibetta (Steven). He was a proud grandfather to his grandson, Evander John Doyle Scibetta, who brought him tremendous joy. Born to Helen and James

Doyle, John was a loving brother to Kathleen Shapiro (Art), James Doyle (Joan), and Tom Doyle (Mary). Above all, John cherished his family. John proudly served his country as an officer in the United States Navy in Okinawa, Japan. Following his military service, he spent many years working for the United States Postal Service before embarking on a second career in nursing. He earned his bachelorʼs degree from Ramapo College. John will be remembered for his love for his family and his service to his country and community. He will be deeply missed by his wife, children, grandson, siblings, extended family, and friends. The family received guests at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood on Thursday, Sept. 3. A Mass celebrating Johnʼs life and faith was held at Our Lady of Good Counsel R.C. Church on Friday, Sept. 4, Interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Hawthorne, N.Y. Becker-FuneralHome.com.

William ‘Bill’ Henry BAILEY

William “Bill” Henry Bailey, 73, died on Aug. 27, 2026, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Born on January 18, 1953, in Springfield, Ohio, Bill lived

a life marked by generosity, warmth, and steady care for others. He was the son of Ralph and Jeanne Bailey and was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ralph Bailey, and his wife, Rebecca Bailey. Bill attended Pascack Hills High School, where he distinguished himself as a star athlete in football, wrestling, and track and field. He continued his education at Wittenberg University, graduating in 1975 with a bachelorʼs degree in history. Those years reflected both his energy and determination, qualities that remained evident throughout his life. That same spirit was evident in his involvement with the Turnstone Center for Children and Adults with Disabilities, especially the Amputee Support Group. His commitment there reflected a sincere investment in people and in the value of showing up for a community with time, attention, and practical support. Billʼs presence in that work was another expression of the compassion that guided so much of his life. Bill is survived by his sister, Susan Bailey-Lemansky; his nephews, Spike and Sonny Bailey-Lemansky; his two sons, Christopher and Richard (Michelle) Bailey; and his three

Literati said the BCCLS Public Relations Committee developed the hunt from its “One Card, Many Libraries” social media campaign, which highlights the resources available throughout the system. A scavenger hunt offered a way to turn that message into an outing. The dinosaur theme of Summer Reading 2026 supplied the wordplay: stamping instead of stomping. “It was so much fun to create and we are so happy with the results,” she told us. The committee hopes to offer something similar next summer, “with a few twists!” For Bombace, a patronʼs trip to another library can benefit the hometown library, too. Visitors return with stories about services and programs that might work in Montvale. “Oh wow, that sounds fantastic. Maybe we could try to bring that to our patrons,” she said of the CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

stepchildren with Rebecca, Ed Hughes, Liz (Alex Grabert) Carr, and Emily Carr. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral service. Instead of flowers, he requested that donations in his name be made to the Turnstone Center for Children and Adults with Disabilities. He leaves behind a memory that will remain with those who knew him.

Maria Rosaria BUONO

Maria Rosaria Buono (née Barca), 84, passed away peacefully on Sept. 7 in River Vale. She was surrounded by her loving family. Maria was born on March 3, 1942, in the beautiful town of Va c c a r i z z o Albanese, Italy, to Mariangela and Giuseppe Barca. In 1960, Maria made the journey across the Atlantic to the United States with her family, settling in Passaic. She brought with her the rich traditions, deep faith and vibrant spirit of her homeland. Maria was the true matriarch of her family. She was predeceased by her husband, Michael Buono, and her siblings CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

PA S C A C K

VA L L E Y

P R E S S

•

S E P T E M B E R

2 8 ,

2 0 2 6

UNDERGROUND LAWN SPRINKLERS

Installation • Service • Repair • Renovation

CLOSINGS ALL PHASES OF RENOVATIONS!

Trip:

IRRIGATION IS OUR ONLY BUSINESS! 5 YEAR WARRANTY ON INSTALLATIONS

25+ YEARS EXPERIENCE • FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

Hill. His 18th-century home is one of the oldest in the Valley, constructed of native red sandstone. It still has the Dutch upper and lower doors and a “noon mark” on the floor by which the time can be told using a ray of sunlight. Such things were common at a time when clocks were a luxury. Hill is a relative newcomer to this land that had been passed down

FROM PAGE 4

One Call Brings The Owner! (201)666-8983

in the Wortendyke family since 1735. About a decade ago, in 1851, he paid Peter Wortendyke $2,800 for the homestead and 40 acres. Hillʼs son-in-law, Albert Terhune, is a cobbler. He uses a portion of the house for his shop. Beyond Hillʼs homestead we come to a little rickety wooden bridge over the Bear Brook. On our right, the brook opens up into a pond where Isaac Demarest has his mill. Here lumber is sawed into boards, and the people of Pascack bring their grain to be ground into flour. Coming up on the same side is

Peter Jerseyʼs tavern, where elections are held every November. It is quiet now, but way back in 1840 it was the scene of a near-riot when the Township of Washington threatened to break off from old Harrington Township. The story of how a mob from Closter descended upon the polling place, had a row with the election officials and stole the ballot box is still talked about among the old-timers of Pascack. As our stagecoach rolls forward with Closter as its destination, you wonder whether the farmers in that section still talk about it, too.

Off to our left is a massive stretch of countryside with a few farmhouses. Here we pass the charming sandstone homestead belonging to Frederick Wortendyke V. He inherited the farm just a few years ago from the estate of his father, Frederick Wortendyke IV, who built it some 50 years earlier. The family runs a store across the street, selling dry goods, groceries and household items. There is also a post office inside, and Mr. Wortendyke is the postmaster. He looks up from his work and waves to our driver as the stage rolls by. In the distance the Pascack

Libraries:

short-films program. Low already uses his card that way, reserving materials online and having them delivered wherever pickup is convenient. The tour gave him a much fuller picture of the network he had been using. It also left him with unfinished FROM PAGE 24

STONE BRIDGE: Old fieldstone bridges crossed the Pascack Brook before the creation of the Woodcliff Reservoir. These are now underwater, but they are occasionally exposed during extremely dry periods, as in this 1964 photo by Reginald McMahon.

JERSEY TAVERN: Peter Jersey’s tavern, for many years the home of the Bongard family, still stands opposite Woodcliff Lake Borough Hall.

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE! ROOF INSTALLATION!

SIDING INSTALLATION!

Brook flows peacefully through a pristine landscape. A series of wagon roads head east from Pascack Road, bisecting the meadows and crossing the brook at old fieldstone bridges. Who among the passengers on our stage this morning can imagine that all those many acres of farmland, as well as those old roads and the farmhouses that stand on them, will eventually be submerged by a dam that converts the Pascack Brook into a reservoir? Our journey continues in next weekʼs Pascack Press…

business. Edgewater eluded him amid renovation and conflicting address information. Essex County and the remaining Hudson County locations could wait, he said, “maybe for another time.” He would attempt the tour again. As for the $50 prize that helped get the adventure rolling, Low had done that calculation, too. “Iʼm sure I spent more than that driving around,” he said.

$850 OFF Any New Roof or Free Gutters Must mention Ad & present coupon. One coupon per person. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Subject to change without notice. Expires 2/28/27

$200 OFF Any Service Over $1000

GUTTER INSTALLATION!

Must mention Ad & present coupon. One coupon per person. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Subject to change without notice. Expires 2/28/27

15% OFF Any Roof Repair

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL All Work 100% Guaranteed Licensed & Insured LIC #13VH09097500

201-501-0202

Serving All Of New Jersey 24HR Emergency Service

Must mention Ad & present coupon. One coupon per person. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Subject to change without notice. Expires 2/28/27

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

J. MISHA IRRIGATION

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

first-choice college, the University of Delaware, where she studied fashion design. Known as “Smiley Kylie,” she loved dancing, Yankee games and the color pink, and was a devoted big sister to Alexa and Jared.

`FROM PAGE 1

REAL ESTATE

Before college, another scan revealed a later brain cancer that her father said doctors believed was likely caused by her childhood radiation treatment. Despite more surgery and treatment, she completed her freshman year. She died Sept. 10, 2025. “Childhood cancer is not simply adult cancer in a smaller body,” Adam said. “Children face different diseases, they require different treat-

ments, and they can live with the consequences of those treatments for the rest of their lives.” The bill would also establish a national pediatric cancer advisory committee within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and explicitly include pediatric cancer in an existing federal block grant program supporting maternal and child health.

ering fell on the anniversary of Kylieʼs bat mitzvah—a day when she had stood before her community and used her own voice. “This legislation carries Kylieʼs name,” Adam said. “But it represents every child fighting cancer, every survivor living with the lasting effects of treatment.” For more on this story, visit thepressgroup.net.

Call Karin “CORINNE” Low For All Your Real Estate Needs

AATJ Termite & Pest Control, Inc. FREE ESTIMATES

FOR KIDS LIKE KYLIE: Left, Adam and Hayley Kupperman, parents of the late Kylie, with U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5) at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Bergen, in Montvale, on Sept. 22. Gottheimer is working with colleague Mike Lawler of New York on the bipartisan Kylie’s Voices for Childhood Cancer Act. Right: Dr. Ira Dunkel, Kylie’s pediatric neuro-oncologist, at the announcement. John Snyder photos.

Dr. Ira Dunkel, Kylieʼs pediatric neuro-oncologist, described the continuing challenges of treating childhood brain tumors and the lifelong effects survivors can face. State Sen. Holly Schepisi (R-39) called the issue one that hits home and transcends politics, and urged continued investment in pediatric cancer research. For the Kuppermans, the gath-

201- 391-6 4 3 3 BEES, TERMITES, MICE & ALL PESTS!

Thinking about Selling or Buying, Call Corinne for the BEST RESULTS!

K. Corinne Low Broker Associate RE/MAX "Platinum" RE/MAX "Hall of Fame"

Corinne 201-819-6737

50 Off

Cell 201-819-6737

Any New Service Offer Valid At Time Of Work & With Coupon Only. Not Valid For Previous Agreements. Ends 10/31/26

corinnelow@yahoo.com

P R OP E R T I E S

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Kylie:

PASCACK VALLEY

Obits:

Maria Vangieri and Gina Marano. She is survived by her daughters, Michele Vella and Mia Bono; sons-in-law, James Vella and August Bono; grandson, Christopher Bono; siblings, Matilda Samarro, Loretta Janus, Mario Barca, Salvatore Barca and Angelina Vizzini; and many nieces and nephews who affectionately called her Zaza. The family received relatives and friends on Wednesday, Sept. 16 at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood. A funeral Mass was held at St. Andrew Roman Catholic Church, Westwood, on Sept. 17. Mausoleum entombment at Westwood Cemetery on Sept. 17. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society, the Childrenʼs Hospital of Philadelphia or St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital.

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FROM PAGE 24

Kathryn ‘Kay’ Ann CARLSON

Kathryn “Kay” Ann Carlson, 82, beloved mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and

friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sept. 5, 2026. Kay was born in 1944 and grew up in Montvale with her mother, Kathryn Clark; father, Lawrence Clark; and brothers, Lawrence Clark Jr. and Thomas Clark, who preceded her in death. She was a bright and talented young woman. She loved reading, and that hobby stayed with her throughout life. Kay devoted her life to her faith and continued living in the light of God throughout her life. Kay cherished her three children, William “Billy” Carlson Jr., who preceded her in death, Mark Carlson (Chris) and Colleen CarlsonNappi. Her greatest joys were her three grandchildren and one greatgrandchild: Billyʼs daughter, Krystal Carlson; Colleenʼs daughters, Juliette Nappi and Danielle Nappi; and Krystalʼs daughter, Maci Overnyer. She adored her grandchildren and gave them everything she could. She also had a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews. A memorial visitation was held at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood, on Sept. 15. A prayer service was held at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood on Sept. 15.

Frances ‘Fran’ Ann VAROLI

Frances “Fran” Ann Varoli (née Congemi), 83, of Emerson, passed away on Sept. 1, 2026. Fran was born on Feb. 18, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, to Anna and Angelo Congemi. A bright and capable young woman, she graduated from Valley Stream North High School in 1960, completed secretarial school and began her career as a secretary with the Federal Aviation Administration at Idlewild Airport (later John F. Kennedy International Airport). It was while working at the FAA that Fran met John Varoli. They were married in May 1962 and shared 64 years together, building a life rooted in family. Faith and service were important parts of Franʼs life. She was a dedicated parishioner at the Church of the Assumption, where she belonged to the Rosary Altar Society and generously supported parish fundraising. She also gave her time and voice to the Emerson community by serving an elected term on the Emerson Board of Education and as a member of the

Emerson Historic Preservation Committee. Above all, Fran loved her family. She is survived by her beloved husband, John, and their children, Joanne Franklin (Fred), Jacqueline Grace, John David Varoli (Natasha), Jennifer Licini and Jonathan Varoli (Kyrah). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to 14 cherished grandchildren: Ridgely Franklin, Payton Franklin, Alexandra Grace, Daniel Varoli, David Varoli, Noelle Varoli, Dasha Okolysheva, Gabriella Licini, Dominick Licini, Lexia Varoli, Harrison Varoli, Warren Varoli, Hamilton Varoli and Carra Varoli. She is also survived by her brothers, Robert Congemi and Albert Congemi (Ginny). Fran was preceded in death by her parents, Angelo and Anna Congemi, and her stepmother, Flora Congemi. She will also be remembered by Matthew Grace, Daniel Licini and Anastasia Vasilevskaya, the parents of her grandchildren. Family and friends gathered in remembrance of Fran on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood. A funeral Mass celebrating Franʼs life took place on Thursday, Sept. 10 at the Church of the Assumption, Emerson. Burial at Ascension Cemetery, Airmont, New York. Those wishing to honor Franʼs memory may make memorial donations in her name to New Hope Inc., P.O. Box 8763, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677.

Anthony John SELVAGGIO

Anthony John Selvaggio — known to everyone as Tony — formerly of River Vale, passed away on Sept. 15, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on April 15, 1950, in the High Bridge section of the Bronx, he was the son of Rose and Anthony Selvaggio and remained close with his High Bridge friends throughout his life. He graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School and earned his bachelorʼs degree from Pace University. Tony spent his career in accounting, working as a controller at several area country clubs, including Indian Trail Club, Upper Montclair Country Club and Edgewood Country Club, and also had his own accounting practice, P.A.T. Services, where his daughter Kim later joined him as a partner. He married Joyce Patricia (Jacobs) Selvaggio, and together they raised their family in River Vale. Tony is survived by his wife, Joyce; his children, Kim (Bob), Anthony (Danielle) and Michael (Melissa); his siblings, Catherine and

Matt; and his grandchildren, Anthony, Nicholas, Adrianna, Dylan, Mason, Ella, Jack, Henry and Cameron. He was predeceased by his parents, Rose and Anthony Selvaggio. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by the family and friends who loved him. Visitation at Becker Funeral Home, Westwood, on Sept. 18. A Mass of Christian Burial at St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church, 268 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, on Sept. 19. Interment at Westwood Cemetery, Westwood, on Sept. 19.

Eugene S. QUINN

Eugene S. Quinn, 93, of the Township of Washington, formerly of Woodside, N.Y., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026. Eugene, known to many as Gene, met his true love, Therese, known as Terry, at age 17. Their romance spanned more than 75 years, including more than 70 years of marriage. They moved to the Township of Washington in 1959 and were among its longest continuous residents. Therese predeceased him. A devoted grandfather, Gene was always the on-call babysitter and an excellent handyman. He was a proud and active member of the Knights of Columbus and gave his time and talents to his church, including helping with its construction. He is survived by his children, Donna McLaughlin and her husband, Robert; Dale Murphy and her husband, Steven; and Ryan Quinn and his wife, Nancy. He also leaves his grandchildren, Timothy McLaughlin and his wife, Regina; Kevin McLaughlin and his wife, Sarah; Molly Bennett and her husband, Nick; Katelyn Downes and her husband, Thomas; Sean Murphy and his wife, Megan; Colin Quinn; and Casey Quinn; and his great-grandchildren, Lily, Anna, Charlie, Ella and Grace McLaughlin; Riley and Jack Bennett; Brian and Evan Downes; and Quinn and Owen Murphy. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his parents, Margaret and Patrick Quinn, and his siblings, Mary, Margaret, Francis, Helen and Ann. The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Friday, Sept. 25, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. A Mass celebrating Eugeneʼs life and faith will be held at Our Lady of Good Counsel R.C. Church in the Township of Washington on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 10 a.m., followed by entombment at Ascension Cemetery in Airmont, N.Y.

Serving All Your Plumbing & Heating Needs!

20% OFF

ANY PLUMBING REPAIR UP TO $50 SAVINGS

SINCE 1985

201-784-0033

www.crosscountyplumbingandheating.com EMAIL: crosscountyph@aol.com

302 Scharer Avenue, Northvale, NJ

Deer talk; Hills Valley Coalition meets Oct. 5

Call 201.358.9500 to place your classified ad today!

fax 201.664.2109 or email pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

HELP WANTED EMERSON PUBLIC LIBRARY seeks two parttime Circulation Assistants: one for Tuesdays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Thursdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and occasional Saturdays; and one for Tuesdays, 2–8 p.m., Fridays, 2–5 p.m., and occasional Saturdays. Both positions pay $16.30 per hour and start Tuesday, Sept. 29. Also seeking a part-time Bookkeeper, approximately 6 hours per month, at $26–$30 per hour, depending on experience, starting Thursday, Oct. 1. Must be proficient in Quickbooks. Send résumé and references to Camille Valentino, Director, at valentino@ emerson.bccls.org. No phone calls, please.

MEDIA SALES

SEND RESUME jobs@thepressgroup.net

Caregiver needed for facility in Bergen County, references excellent required. Call Anthony at (973) 652-1293

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED Part-time bookkeeper to run accounting dept. for small sales office in Park Ridge, NJ. QuickBooks experience required, 3 days a week, flexible hours $25 per hour. Please call (201) 9300222 or send resumes to steve@riccisales.com

LIC#13VH08846400

CALL 201-264-2103

PL ACE YOUR A D HE RE ! Get the exposure your business needs! Over 57,000 homes weekly!

HELP WANTED The River Vale BOE is seeking candidates for the following part-time positions: • School Bus/Van Driver • School Bus/Van Aide View individual postings on district website at www.rivervaleschools .com. To apply: Forward a cover letter, current resume, to email: HR@rivervaleschools .com. River Vale Public Schools Office of the Superintendent. EEO/AA.

TEAM PLAYERS WANTED

Professional Junk Removal Company seeks an enthusiastic and energetic individual to help join their growing team. Drivers license & transportation required. Call (201) 661-4940 for more details.

HELP WANTED CROSSING GUARDS Woodcliff Lake, Crossing Guards. Sept to June (1) AM and (1) PM post. Starting $23/hour, must be 18 or older. For further information email admin@wclpd.com or stop by Police headquarters. Must pass a vision and hearing exam.

Get It Done! Need a hand around the house? Turn to our Service Directory

ROOM FOR RENT Westwood - large furnished master bedroom, private bathroom & deck, shared kitchen $1,200 per month, 1 month security. Call or Text 201-694-9817.

Now Online!

SERVICES YOU NEED A RATED AT ANGIES’S LIST

The Hills Valley Coalition invites residents to its first meeting of the 2026–27 school year Monday, Oct. 5, from 5:30 to

www.pascackpress.com

Let’s Fix It Right!

E&H

EUROPEAN CRAFTSMAN HANDYMAN NO JOB TOO SMALL! FREE ESTIMATES

CALL MARTIN 201-953-5663

PAINTING OWNER OPERATOR. 40 YRS + EXP. HONEST & RELIABLE. FREE ESTIMATES

SR. DISCOUNTS-CALL GIANNI 201-887-7707

INTERIOR EXTERIOR PAINTING DECK REPAIR, CLEANING & REFINISHING WALLPAPER • POWERWASHING JIM MITCHELL • 201 768-0901

Builders &

Contracting LLC

201-906-2355

GENERAL CONTRACTOR Additions • Kitchens • Decks • Bathrooms Windows • Doors

PL AC E YO UR A D H ER E !

FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED 24 Hr Emergency Service

Get the exposure your ! business needs!

551-265-3494

Hillsdale, NJ

Call (201)664-2105

30.00

ONLY $

CLASSIFIED SPECIAL ADVERTISE 3 WEEKS

HELP WANTED SUBSTITUTE CROSSING GUARD, WESTOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT, 101 WASHINGTON AVE. 201-664-7000 ext. 152. You are off during the summer and all holidays during the school year. Must be able to work in all types of weather. Uniform is provided. Pay is $21/hour. Applications available at Police Headquarters. Westwood is an Equal Opportunity Employer. FOR SALE FOR SALE- Commercial lawnmowers, 36 inch and 48 inch Scag belt drive machines. Very well maintained. Prices between $800-$1500. Call or text Larry: (201) 697-3458.

GET THE 4TH WEEK

FREE

HELP WANTED Busy Salon in Emerson has immediate opening for hair stylist & manicurist, following preferred. Call (845) 682-8047. HOUSECLEANING Polish lady will clean your house, apt, office. Free estimate. Refs available. Call Maria at 201-4782236. SERVICES Team of Polish women will clean your home, office, or apartment. Over 25 years experience. Call Teresa at 201-679-5081.

Professional Offices 180 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan – For Rent, $450/month. Call 201768-0218. COMMERCIAL RENT

2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness, ONLY 2000 Miles! White, Fully Loaded, Must Sell. $35,000 or best offer. Call (914) 552-5974.

AUTOS FOR SALE

MOTORCYCLE FOR SALE

2002 Suzuki Intruder Volusia VL800. 17,631 miles. Windshield, saddlebags, and sissy bar and luggage rack like new $2500 firm. Call (201) 440-9250. WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

Power Power Washing Washing && Gutter Gutter Cleaning Cleaning ANY 10% OFF OFF ANY JOB JOB 10%

• Gutter Installation & Repairs • Soft Washing

MASONRY - REPAIRS

NJ LIC. #6192

Water Heaters • Furnaces All Repairs • Veteran’s Discount Sewers Located

ONE WEEK

5 LINES FOR

RIVERVALE, NJ

NEW CONSTRUCTION ALL TYPES

Call (201)664-2105

Plumbing & Heating

pants will share resources, discuss concerns affecting children and families, and explore opportunities for community programs. New and returning participants are welcome. We try to fit in every notice that we can! Submit yours to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

ph 201.358.9500 • fax 201.664.2109 • pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

Join our ever-growing sales team as a Sales Associate for the Pascack Press and Northern Valley Press. Selfstarters with drive to succeed. Outside sales and excellent customer service.

Serving Bergen County for 20 years. FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

Hills Valley Coalition meets Oct. 5

6:30 p.m. via Zoom. The meeting ID is 909 951 6173. The coalition brings together municipal leaders, law enforcement, schools, health care professionals, community organizations, parents and students to promote healthier communities through prevention, wellness and education. Partici-

classifieds

HELP WANTED RIVER VALE PUBLIC SCHOOLS. Employment Opportunities 2026-2027 School Year. The River Vale BOE is seeking candidates for: • School Lunch Aides • Special Education Aides View individual postings on the district website: www.rivervaleschools .com To Apply: Email a cover letter, current resume to: HR@rivervaleschools .com River Vale Public Schools Office of the Superintendent. EEO/AA

Interior/Exterior Painting

man owns Landscapes By Design, LLC. Open to the public.

Target Your Market! in the

NJ LIC#13VH13957900

HILLSDALE — The Sundial Garden Club hosts a presentation by master gardener Arnie Friedman, “Living with Deer,” on Monday, Oct. 5, at 6 p.m. at the Hillsdale Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave. Friedman will discuss ways

to reduce deer damage in gardens, including choosing deer-resistant plants and using deer-proofing methods. He will also explore how deer affect native plants, forests and plant communities. A former instructor at the New York Botanical Garden and a certified NYBG landscape designer, Fried-

PROFESSIONALS

201.284.9497

allbrightecowash.com Call Estimate! Call Now Now For For Your Your Free Free Estimate! Lic# 13VH090443900

Call For A FREE Estimate! WE CLEAN OUT: Basements • Attics Garages • Sheds Fire Damage Construction Debris Hoarding Specialists

201-661-4940 www.jimmythejunkmanwestwoodnj.com

NJLIC#13VH12168700

WE DO NOT TRANSPORT SOLID OR HAZARDOUS WASTE.

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Sundial’s ‘Living with Deer’ talk Oct. 5

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

P LA C E Y O U R A D HE RE ! Get the exposure your business needs! Over 57,000 homes weekly!

Call (201)664-2105

JUST JUST SMALL SMALL

HANDYMAN SERVICES BATHROOM & KITCHEN REMODELING

Over 25 Years Experience!

General Repairs • Drywall • Painting • Carpentry Powerwashing • Decks • Flooring And Much More! INTERIOR/EXTERIOR • RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL

HomeWorx HOME HOME Call Or Text 201-701-0590 REPAIRS REPAIRS 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

b e r g e n r e p a i r s @g m a i l . c o m

Fully Insured

FREE Estimates

NJ LIC. 13VH11892900

FULLY INSURED • RELIABLE SERVICE 7 DAYS A WEEK!

S.D. Larsen 201- 819-4666

TREE & STUMP REMOVAL • TOPSOIL • MULCH TRIMMING & PRUNING • SPRING & FALL CLEAN UPS

FREE ESTIMATES

551-804-7603 • 201-444-0676

PAINTING

LICENSED ARBORIST NJTC777458

NJ NJ Lic# Lic# 13VH04381000 13VH04381000

www.vivartreeservices.com

INTERIOR EXTERIOR PAINTING DECK REPAIR, CLEANING & REFINISHING WALLPAPER • POWERWASHING JIM MITCHELL • 201 768-0901

Sprinkler Systems

J. MISHA IRRIGATION UNDERGROUND LAWN SPRINKLERS

Installation • Service • Repair • Renovation

CLOSINGS ALL PHASES OF RENOVATIONS! 5 YEAR WARRANTY ON INSTALLATIONS FULLY INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

(201)666-8983

Michael J. Porro & Co. Preparing Taxes Since 1983

CALL US BEFORE YOU MAKE ANY FINANCIAL DECISIONS.

WE CAN HELP! 180 Old Tappan Road Old Tappan, NJ

201-768-0218

Email: mikep@porrofinancial.com www.porrofinancial.com

GARAGE DOOR MEDIC Springs & Cables Replaced Openers Repaired and Installed

201-202-0174 845-426-8523 info@bergengaragemedic.com

PL ACE YOUR A D HE RE ! Get the exposure your business needs! Over 57,000 homes weekly!

Call (201)664-2105

TEPLITZ Since 1902

RECEIVING ALL TYPES OF METALS Cars, Trucks, Trailers, Appliances, etc. Junk Yard at

108 West Nyack Rd. Nanuet, NY

1-800-732-4724

ONE CALL TO US CAN SAVE YOU HUNDREDS ON YOUR NEXT HOME MAINTENANCE! • Roof Leaks • Roof Repairs • New Roof Installs • Gutter Cleaning Fully Licensed & Insured LIC.# H11338-21-00-00 NJ Lic.# 13VH03740700

Complete Tree Removal • Pruning • Storm Damage • Stump Grinding 24Hrs. Emergency Service • FREE Woodchips • Firewood OWNER OPERATED FULLY INSURED • HILLSDALE, NJ

CALL OR TEXT FOR A FREE ESTIMATE (201)681-0107

treme

David Vivar, Licensed Tree Care Operator, Registration NJTC #936049

gutters

Over 10 Years Experience

DR. DRIP PLUMBING AND HEATING

(201)664-0055 Office (845)406-5238 Cell

Garage Door Service & Repair We Service All Makes & Models • Maintenance • Repair Broken Cables • Repair Broken Springs • Lubrication • Door Off Track • Repair Motor Opener • Door Does Not • Key Pads & Transmitters Open Or Close LICENSED/BONDED/INSURED

Call (201) 749-2034

00 39 GARAGE DOOR

50 OFF

ANY SERVICE

TUNE UP SPECIAL OFFER EXP. 11/30/26

YOUR GARAGE DOOR MAY NEED A TUNE UP! 201-522-8371 LIC# 13VH0564330 • LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

GDC CONTRACTING INC. ROOFING • SIDING

Water Heaters, Boilers, Sump Pumps, Water Softeners & Filtration, Faucets & Fixtures, Drain Cleaning & Hydro Jetting, and so much more! NJMP#36B101371200 NJHIC# 13VH13069000

www.drdripplumbing.com

61 YEARS

Financing Available!

WINDOWS

Bathrooms • Renovations • Decks

201-225-1957 Emerson, NJ Gene Durocher, President GAFMC CERT.#AU03736

Lic.#13VH01317100

WE PERFORM ALL PHASES OF LANDSCAPING AND HARDSCAPE WORK: Specializing in developing creative, custom landscape solutions and outdoor Living Spaces, our concept plans and 3-D renderings will help you to Visualize, Plan, Budget, and Experience Your Space.

CALL NOW FOR FALL CLEAN-UPS AND PRUNING ESTIMATES! ONE TIME SERVICES & SMALL JOBS.

• Cleanups • Trimming & Plantings • Topsoil & Mulch • Paver Walks and Small Walls EST. 1996

• Lawn Renovations • Rip Outs • Stone and Gravel • Railroad Ties

• Aeration / Seeding • Small Tree Work • Brush Removal • Demolition Jobs

201-573-1497

PARK RIDGE, NJ

The OLDEST and MOST RESPECTED Wood Floor Company In The Pascack Valley Is...

• Precision Installations and Repairs • Clean, Neat, Meticulous Workmanship “Wood Flooring Is My Only Business” SINCE 1965 WESTWOOD

201-666-3354

SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net

SP PAVING

20% OFF

RELIABLE • CLEAN • COURTEOUS

Craig & George - Tel (201)664-1515

R. Bruno Jr., LCC Kitchens • Bathrooms • Decks • Painting Finished Basements • Suspended Ceilings Carpentry • Masonry Repair Replacement Windows • Sheet Rock

201-945-2466 • 201-803-9655 NJ HIC# 13VH006409500

PLUMBING & HEATING

C. W. Williams

All Phases of Installation & Repair Bath & Kitchen Remodels Reasonable Rates Water Heaters & Boilers Twp of Washington, NJ 201-358-5003

ANY PLUMBING REPAIR UP TO $50 SAVINGS

201-784-0033

SINCE 1985

www.crosscountyplumbingandheating.com EMAIL: crosscountyph@aol.com

PARK FLOORING 302 Scharer Avenue, Northvale, NJ

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

Quality Workmanship at Reasonable Rates Floor Scraping Scraping •• Refinishing Refinishing •• Staining Staining Floor Installation & Repairs Dustless FREE ESTIMATES ESTIMATES 40 Years FREE Sys

Experience

NJ Lic # 8833

DRIVEWAYS & PARKING LOTS

HELP WANTED

• Asphalt • Concrete • Pot Hole Repair • Belgian Blocks • Seal Coating • Pavers • Drainage • Sidewalks/Patios • Retaining Walls • Parking Lots

GET FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED

CALL OR TEXT 201-423-4948 www.sppavingsealcoatingllc.com

LIC#13VH10923800

201-387-1377

tem Available

Mitchell Park (201) 694-9011 Cellular • parkfloor@aol.com

J. MISHA IRRIGATION UNDERGROUND LAWN SPRINKLERS

Installation • Service • Repair • Renovation

CLOSINGS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

PARK RIDGE, NJ

ALL PHASES OF RENOVATIONS! IRRIGATION IS OUR ONLY BUSINESS! 5 YEAR WARRANTY ON INSTALLATIONS

One Call Brings The Owner! (201)666-8983 25+ YEARS EXPERIENCE • FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

P LA C E Y O U R A D H ER E!

DRIVEWAYS & PARKING LOTS

Get the exposure your business needs! Over 57,000 homes weekly!

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Call (201)664-2105

Jimmy the Junk Man

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL WE CLEAN OUT: Basements • Attics • Garages Fire Damage • Construction Debris Hoarding Specialists WE REMOVE ANYTHING! Call today for a FREE estimate

ASPHALT & CONCRETE 3RD GENERATION 40 YRS.+ EXPERIENCE SENIORS

DISCOUNT

Lic# 13VH00669800

•Hot Resurfacing •Interlocking •Concrete Construction Pavers •Waterproofing •Belgian Block •Masonry •Railroad Ties

SERVING YOUR AREA

TILE REPAIR RECAULKING AND REGROUTING REPAIRS, BATHROOM SANITIZER

tedweilandpaving.com

201-391-0502 • 201-488-1886

201-661- 4940 PL AC E YO U R A D H ER E ! Get the exposure your business needs! Over 57,000 homes weekly!

& CONCRETE

Call (201)664-2105

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

THE FURNITURE SHOP Reupholstery, Regluing, Recaning & Refinishing

201-906-3680

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Call (201)664-2105

LOORING

Serving All Your Plumbing & Heating Needs!

Painting • Sheetrock • Tile • Carpentry All Kinds Of Repairs NO JOB TOO SMALL

Get the exposure your ! business needs!

• Impeccable floor refinishing with particular attention to preparation with your need for specific color and type of finishes to maximize wear.

Join our ever growing sales team as a Sales Associate for the Press and Pascack Northern Valley Press. In this position, you will sell digital advertising space. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service.

FREE ESTIMATES

P LA CE YO UR A D H E RE !

Paul Phykitt H F ARDWOOD

C•A•C

4 BROTHERS WITH THE RED TRUCKS 201 Family Owned &

LIC#13VH00234500

We Perform All Phases of

ASPHALT & CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION AND DRAINAGE RESIDENTIAL DRIVEWAY SPECIALISTS

Operated for Over 30 Years SUPERIOR WORKMANSHIP

652-2700 666-2229

“Honesty is Our Policy!”

DRIVEWAYS

HILLSDALE WASH TWP

201-385-7656

• ASPHALT • PARKING LOTS • MILLING • CONCRETE • SEAL COATING • RESIDENTIAL • DRIVEWAYS • BELGIAN BLOCK • COMMERCIAL

License # 13VH08679600

www.amacchionebrothers.com

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

L.W.K. LANDSCAPING

FULLY INSURED

SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS