KPRG-TVʼs Lori Fredrics hosts ʻIn Conversationʼ special
BYJOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
PKRG-TV is shining a light on a remarkable chapter of local , valley, and national music history with its new special, In Conversation with Terre Roche
The program profiles Roche a founding member of the acclaimed vocal trio The Roches who grew up in Park Ridge and went on to perform and record with artists including Paul Simon, Linda Ronstadt, Robert Fripp, and Philip Glass.
With her sisters Maggie and Suzzy, Terre helped define a singular blend of folk, pop, and artsong that carried the familyʼs Park Ridge harmonies to international stages. The Roches signed with Columbia Records for their 1975 debut as a duo (Seductive Reasoning) and later with Warner Bros. Records, releasing their 1979 selftitled trio debut produced by Fripp.
The album — featuring songs such as “Hammond Song,” “Mr. Sellack,” and “The Married Men”
See ROCHE on page 22
VETERANS DAY IN THE VALLEY VETERANS DAY IN THE VALLEY
Wherever we looked, residents were standing proud, honoring those who served
WORLD WAR I effectively ended at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, 1918, when an armistice halted the fighting months before the Treaty of Versailles was signed in June 1919. Because of that, Nov. 11 came to be recognized as the symbolic end of “the war to end all wars.”
Today, Veterans Day is still observed on Nov. 11 each year, preserving the dateʼs historical meaning and focusing national attention on honoring Americaʼs veterans for their service, patri-
otism, and sacrifice. Reflection and appreciation were themes at area Veterans Day observances, which weʼve rounded up in full color at thepressgroup.net But these images stand out:Members of Hillsdale American Legion Post 162 participated in ceremonies at both Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan and the Hillsdale Veterans Memorial. Post 162 Vice Commander Joe Sgroi delivered keynotes at both events, focusing on remembrance, honor, and veteransʼcontinued service to their communities. “We all came away enriched and appre-
Continued on page 28
RESIDENTS LEAD
Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna credits resident Kerry Shelby for leading the charge to return Mill Pond dredging to a public referendum. Voters backed the $5M option.
HUGE TURNOUT, SAYSTHE COUNTY
Republicans hold ground amid blue wave; WTʼs Calamari wins third term; drama in Hillsdale
BYJOHN SNYDER AND MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
Voters across the Pascack Valley delivered a mix of continuity and change on Nov 4, re-electing several Republican incumbents while giving Democrats key wins in Woodcliff Lake and what remains a razor-thin Hillsdale contest.
Most local races were decided by narrow margins that speak to residentsʼ deep investment in issues from flooding and redevelopment to fiscal restraint.
Overall, Pascack Valley Election Day turnout on Nov. 4 surpassed either early in-person voting or vote-by-mail ballots in all eight of our towns.
This was the fifth year that New Jersey has offered early inperson voting for primary and
See TURNOUT on page 24
This week we go back 130 years for a story about a group of Westwood couples who went out for a night of fun and found unwanted excitement at the hands of highwaymen. Kristin Beuscher reports.
PAGE 4
Hillsdale’s Zoltán Horváth and Anthony DeRosa took these photos,top and inset respectively,at the downtown Veterans Day service on Nov.11.
Newspapers essential to democracy
To the editor:
THANKYOU, John Snyder, for your informative and timely article “Shifting legal notices online, for good and ill” (Commentary, Nov. 10, 2025, page 7.)
A vibrant press and trusted journalism are essential for making decisions in a functioning democracy. Good journalism informs the public of the basic facts related to important issues. Newspapers bring us together on the same page, so that we can communicate with understanding and cooperation. They are an essential resource. Newspapers and journalism are the
eyes, ears, and voice of our society.
James P. Drew Westwood
‘The moving finger writes…’
To the editor: Y ES, TIMESHAVE changed, and the shift from human intelligence to artificial intelligence is well on its way.
AI is simply encyclopedic— subject, verb and direct object-taken to the nth degree.
Actually, John, what you espoused [“Shifting legal notices online, for good and ill” (Commentary, Nov 10, 2025, page 7] might be the future epitaph of Pascack Press Give your paper five to seven years, and advertisements and articles will be handled by online sources, not paper ones.
As at of conversation, writing, and social intercourse diminish, so will the ebb and flow of human interaction. Thus, what little will be written and read will be tantamount to reading a headstone upon a grave.
My late brother would have turned 79 this past Halloween, so I celebrated his birthday with a walk to St. Andrewʼs Cemetery on Cedar
Lane in River Vale. I navigated the sidewalks, roads, and terrain to reach his grave — and reading what I did upon his military plaque is about to most Americans read in a week on their cell phones:
The Moving Finger writes; and, having writ, Moves on: nor all thy Piety nor
Wit Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line, Nor all thy Tears wash out a Word of it.
John, it has already arrived!
Edward J. Roell Hillsdale
Editorʼs note: Mr. Roell closes with lines from quatrain 51 of Edward FitzGeraldʼs 1859 translation of The Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám
We thank him for the reflection, and for reminding us that the written word, however it evolves, endures in its human meaning when it comes from the heart, as ours does.
Borough relaunches Green Team
The Boroughʼs Green Team has been officially reestablished, signaling a renewed commitment to environmental
The team is laying the groundwork to pursue Sustainable Jersey certification, a statewide recognition for municipalities that adopt long-term sustainability and resiliency initiatives.
Mayor Keith Misciagna thanked the members for “bringing fresh energy and focus to environmental stewardship in Park Ridge.”
The Green Team will also help raise awareness about local initiatives such as the Mill Pond dredge project and other environmental education efforts. Team officers are: chair Tod Christie; vice-chair (Shade Tree) Jim
vice-chair
secretary
and members-at-large
and
Residents are encouraged to get involved by visiting parkridgeboro.com or emailing recreation@parkridgeboro.com for information on upcoming sustainability events.
Hespe;
(Green Team) Kerry Shelby;
Jon Battaglia;
Vinny Lemba
Shireen Moidu.
Lane, Roche skate to three more years on council
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
This yearʼs Borough Council race was uncontested, with incumbent Republicans Timothy E. Lane and Christopher A. Roche returning to office. Lane, a council veteran, received 2,315 votes; Roche, who won his first term in 2019, landed 2,311 votes, according to unofficial results.
Montvaleʼs governing body remains entirely Republican, led by Mayor Mike Ghassali and including councilmembers Annmarie Russo-Vogelsang, Dieter Koelling, Douglas Arendacs, and Theresa Cudequest.
Fighting state housing mandates
The boroughʼs leadership is the tip of the spear on Local Leaders for Responsible Planning (LLRP), a coalition of nearly 40 municipalities challenging the stateʼs Fourth Round affordablehousing mandates for 2025–2035. The group, coordinated by Ghassali, argues that the stateʼs new rules overreach and impose unsustainable obligations on local governments.
Earlier this year, the council raised the spending cap for its special affordable-housing legal counsel, King, Moench & Collins LLP, to $350,000, reflecting Montvaleʼs central role in the coalitionʼs multijurisdictional lawsuits now moving through state and federal courts. Each participating municipality has been asked to contribute $20,000 toward the legal effort.
Ghassali has said the coalition seeks “fair, responsible, and constitutionally sound planning policies that respect local autonomy.”
Affordable-housing advocates, including the Cherry Hill-
based Fair Share Housing Center, have criticized the lawsuits as wasteful and obstructionist, arguing that towns already have wide latitude to meet their obligations through redevelopment and mixedincome planning.
In an 81-page opinion issued Sept. 30, Mercer County Assignment Judge Robert Lougy dismissed two lawsuits filed by Ghassaliʼs coalition, ruling that the 2024 statute falls within the Legislatureʼs constitutional authority to implement the state Supreme Courtʼs Mount Laurel housing mandate.
Lougyʼs decision dismissed the cases with prejudice, meaning they cannot be refiled. His ruling follows earlier denials by the Appellate Division and Supreme
Court of the coalitionʼs attempts to stay the law.
A separate federal lawsuit— arguing the law improperly exempts the stateʼs largest “urban aid” cities from new housing obligations—remains pending.
See “Ghassali vows appeal as judge boots suits.“
A boroughʼs happy harvest
In the runup to the election, officials celebrated a major win for open space and community engagement. On Oct. 28, the council unanimously approved a 20year lease allowing DʼAgostino Landscaping & Irrigation of West Nyack, N.Y. to operate the bor-
oughʼs 8.4-acre former DePiero Farm on Craig Road, keeping the land in active agricultural use. The plan includes a new community garden offering 4-by-8-foot plots for residents and space for townsponsored events.
Ghassali called the decision “a meaningful step forward in our commitment to community engagement and sustainable land use.” The move follows the boroughʼs inaugural Town Day at the Farm on Oct. 18, which drew about 1,500 residents to celebrate the siteʼs future.
Next steps Election results remain unofficial until all timely, qualified, and eligible votes are counted and the election is certified on Nov. 19. County boards of election have until Nov. 10 to receive postmarked mail-in ballots, and voters have until Nov. 15 to return a cure form to correct a signature or envelope issue. The Board of State Canvassers is scheduled to certify the official 2025 General Election results on Dec. 4.
BCHS President Beverly Hashimoto, donor Paul Gross, and Roger Gross at Historic New Bridge Landing, following the Gross family’s $250,000 leadership gift to support the site’s new county history museum.
BCHS MUSEUM BREAKS GROUND; HUGE CHEER ON $250K GIFT
BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
THE BERGEN COUNTY Histori-
cal Society has broken ground on a 3,750-square-foot history museum at Historic New Bridge Landing in River Edge, a major step toward creating a permanent home for the countyʼs extensive collection.
The Oct. 1 ceremony follows a $250,000 leadership gift from longtime residents and philanthropists Gayle and Paul Gross, whose support significantly advances the project.
“This extraordinary gift from the Gross family is a powerful endorsement of our mission and vision,” Beverly Hashimoto, president of BCHS, tells Pascack Press “It brings us significantly closer to building a museum that will serve as a permanent home for the rich and diverse history of Bergen County ”
The museum will feature modern
See GIFT on page 24
Bckintime... Bckintime...
130 years ago this week: Highwaymen in a buggy
BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER
SPECIAL
TTO
PASCACK PRESS
HISWEEKWEGOBACK 130 years for a story about a group of Westwood couples who went out for a night of fun and found unwanted excitement at the hands of highwaymen.
SPECIALTO
PASCACK PRESS
By Kristin Beuscher, president of the Pascack Historical Society, Park Ridge. Call (201) 573-0307 or visit PascackHistoricalSociety.org
At around 1 a.m. on Nov. 22, 1895, four couples were returning from Hackensack, where they had attended an event at the Oritani Field Club Travel was by horse-drawn carriage in those days, and as they made the return trip home, it was two couples to a buggy, one following the other
The first carriage was driven by Charles C. Clark, 31, manager of a photography company and proprietor of the Overbrook Stock Farm in Westwood. Alongside him was his wife, Effie, 27. Joining the Clarks were Frank Vela, 30, and his wife, Mary Louise, 25. The couples were good friends.
The second carriage followed behind at a distance. Inside were Robert R. Christie and his wife, Lillian, and George H. Smith and his wife, Maude. The Smiths, in their early 20s, had been married only a few months.
They had spent the evening at the Oritani in Hackensack, a prestigious social club opened in 1887. Facilities included a banquet hall, eight tennis courts, a grandstand, a baseball field, a large boathouse, a clubhouse, and a skating pond spread across 10 acres on East Camden Street between Main and River streets. In addition to athletic events, all kinds of entertainment were staged there.
It was after midnight when our night owls finally left the club. The journey home likely took them north on Main Street and through New Bridge, where they could follow Kinderkamack Road back to Westwood. In the darkness, they wended their way along the dirt roads, carriage lanterns casting a glow about them.
A few miles north of Hackensack, two men in a buggy drawn by a very fast horse dashed by and cut in front of Clarkʼs carriage. The strangers pulled back and
allowed Clark to get ahead, and then tried the same maneuver again.
“This time they were cautioned by Mr. Clark,” the New York Herald reported. “At this they blocked the road, and, alighting, stopped Mr. Clarkʼs team.”
Grabbing hold of the horses, the robbers demanded the party hand over their jewelry and valuables.
Mr. Clark sprang from his carriage and jumped on one of the men, delivering some fierce punches. Mr. Vela drew his revolver and fired at the other man, but as they were in the dark, the bullet missed its mark. By this time, the Christie and Smith party had come up in the second carriage, and the highwaymen took off in a hurry.
The Herald reported that the attempted robbery might have been planned.
“The supposition is that the two men had a very strong vehicle, and that their purpose was to wreck a wheel on Mr. Clarkʼs carriage and rob the party during the excitement,” the Herald wrote. “The women of the party wore considerable diamond jewelry, and it is believed the holdup was planned by persons aware of this.”
According to The New York Times , however, it might have been opportunistic. This was the second holdup in the same area within 48 hours.
The Times reported that on Nov. 21, 1895, “A musical director employed in a New York music hall, while on his way to the station at New Milford, was held up by two men at a lonely spot in the road. He promptly drew his revolver and frightened the highwaymen away.”
These Westwood residents got more excitement than they bargained for when their carriage was accosted by highwaymen this week back in 1895. Clockwise from top left: Charles C. Clark, Effie Clark, Francis Vela, and Mary Louise Vela.
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
Two Borough Council seats were on the line in one of the tightest races in the Pascack Valley, where Democrat Christopher C. Camp appears to have secured one seat and the second remains in play, according to unofficial results.
As of the latest Bergen County Clerk tally, Camp led Republican Anthony J. DeRosa by just two votes, 2,417 to 2,415. Democrat Gabriella A. Ianni had 2,378, and Republican Louis A. Casale had 2,360. The two open seats carry full three-year terms. Incumbents Justin Fox and Janetta Trochimiuk, both Republicans, did not seek reelection.
The DeRosa–Casale campaign posted on Facebook early Nov. 5 that the numbers were preliminary and that more ballots were expected before “a definitive call.” The Democratic slate followed the next evening, noting that Camp held a two-vote lead and that Ianni “needs 37,” signing off with “fingers crossed.”
Camp and Ianni, who ran as a Democratic team under the theme “community first,” campaigned on stronger resident involvement, small-business support, and transparency in local decision-making. Camp, a financial-data-assurance professional and Stonybrook Pool Commissioner, and Ianni, a musicindustry executive and school volunteer, stressed collaboration and inclusion.
DeRosa, a former councilman,
and Casale, a technology-sector sales director active in youth sports, focused on fiscal restraint, smart development, and maintaining strong services. Both emphasized tax control, shared services, and investment in recreation while preserving Hillsdaleʼs small-town character.
The four agreed that deer management and redevelopment require regional cooperation but differed on approach. DeRosa and Casale backed the boroughʼs thermalimaging study to map herd size; Camp and Ianni urged a coordinat-
On the Memorial Field
improvement project, estimated at $5.8 million, all four expressed support, though the Democrats pressed for broader communication so residents “feel this is an investment for the community as a whole.”
Republicans described the approved self-storage redevelopment project as worth careful review for its tax benefits, while the Democrats called for ongoing transparency as it proceeds.
With only 57 votes separating the four candidates, the final order could shift as mail-in and provisional ballots are verified. All
results remain unofficial pending certification by the Bergen County Board of Elections.
Results remain unofficial until all timely, qualified, and eligible votes are counted and the election is certified on Nov. 19. County boards of election have until Nov. 10 to receive postmarked mail-in ballots, and voters have until Nov. 15 to return a cure form to fix a signature or envelope issue. The Board of State Canvassers is scheduled to certify the official 2025 General Election results on Dec. 4.
ed Pascack Valley strategy to address collisions and ecological strain.
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
Officials said sediment test results from Mill Pond are expected before yearʼs end, after which the Borough Council will determine next steps as plans advance to begin dredging the pond and seek additional grant funding, Mayor Keith Misciagna told us on Nov. 11.
On Election Day, Nov. 4, local voters favored bonding for up to $5 million to dredge and clean up Mill Pond — originally
the site of Park Ridgeʼs first hydroelectric power plant many years ago. Although the referendum was nonbinding, voters signaled their support for spending taxpayer dollars to restore the siltclogged pond.
At the Nov. 11 council meeting, pond-dredge advocate Kerry Shelby offered assistance for the cleanup, while another resident, Frank Fuchs, questioned the longterm impact of dredging.
Fuchs said that even if the pond is dredged, sediment would likely accumulate again within 15 years, while the bond term runs 20 years. He noted that residents would still be paying for the project after the pond had again filled with silt.
Misciagna countered that the pondʼs historic value makes the project worthwhile, both to preserve a local landmark and to create a cleaner, more inviting resource for residents — including the possibility of recreational fishing. “Iʼm proud that weʼre going to lose a swamp,” he joked.
The mayor also noted that the boroughʼs $1.5 million federal grant for the cleanup — secured
with assistance from Fifth District Congressman Josh Gottheimer — must be used by spring 2026 or returned. He said the referendumʼs results bolster the boroughʼs case for moving forward.
At one point, Councilman William Fenwick suggested that Park Ridge might consider taking a former Montvale gas station to court for possibly polluting Mill Pond.
“The pond dredging effort won public support,” Misciagna said. “I believe the time is right to do it.” He added that officials hope to begin dredging in 2026.
Although residents backed bonding for up to $5 million, Misciagna said the mayor and council will work to secure grants and minimize the cost to taxpayers.
Misciagna further credited residents — and Kerry Shelby in particular — for the referendumʼs outcome.
“I donʼt believe this wouldʼve happened without the efforts of Park Ridge resident Kerry Shelby who along with a small group of residents did a wonderful job educating the public on why this project deserved to be done.”
Misciagna added, “Itʼs obvious the citizens understood the question and support a dredging project and I expect that we can get it moving in 2026. The council stated they would follow the will of our residents and I expect them to do so.”
Councilman Robert Metzdorf said the message from voters was clear.: “The voters have spoken and they want to spend $5 million, along with other money we can get in grants, to substantially improve the pond.”
Metzdorf said Neglia Engineering was out on Mill Pond last week collecting soil samples to help determine how to proceed with future work. He said the pond is contaminated with sediment, polluted road and lawn runoff, and runoff from upstream communities. He, too, singled out Shelbyʼs efforts to publicize the need for dredging and restoration.
Shelby said she sees the result as a case study in how local democracy can work. “This is really how the system is supposed to work and bring change. If you put energy into something, youʼll see results.”
She added, “We all need to show up and listen to each other. This is more about how important it is that the community shows up to help make the community better.”
The Montvale Public Library invites you to a book release party celebrating the publication of “Not Just Cookies,” a dessert recipe collection created by members of the libraryʼs long-running Supper Club Book Club. The event is Monday, Nov 17, at 6:30 p.m. Sample treats featured in the book and meet the contributors. Copies will be available for $15 (cash only), with all proceeds supporting future cooking and foodrelated programs at the library Registration is required. See the Montvale Public Library website calendar.
Calamari keeps gavel a third term; his team wins
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
Mayor Peter Calamari won a third term and his Republican running mates, Thomas J. Sears and Daisy N. Velez, retained the two available Township Council seats in one of the most spirited local races of the season.
According to unofficial results from the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office, Calamari received 2,432 votes (52.6%), defeating Democrat Meghan Stamatopoulos (1,356, 29.3%) and Independent Michael DeSena (830, 18.0%).
On the council side, Velez led with 2,768 votes (42.2%), foll owed by Sears with 2,651 (40.5%), and Independent Desserie Morgan with 1,091 (16.6%). Total votes cast: 4,621.
The polling location was moved this cycle from Town Hall/Jack Woods Senior Center to B ethany Community Center. Some voters had tried to cast early votes at Bethany in the runup to Election Day and learned this was not a designated early voting site.
Calamari, a lifelong township resident and IT consultant, ran on a message of stability, experience, and “keeping Washington Townshipʼs small-town character.” His ticket emphasized community services, infrastructure upgrades, and stormwater improvements.
In a Nov. 5 social-media post, the mayor and his running mates thanked residents “for your trust and support,” writing, “Serving this community is a privilege, and weʼre excited to continue working together to keep Washington Township strong and thriving.”
Challengers strike gracious notes
Following the election, both challengers publicly congratulated the winning ticket. Independent Desserie Morgan, who ran alongside Michael DeSena, thanked supporters “for a campaign rooted in honesty, hard work, and genuine love for Washington Township,” adding that “when one of us succeeds, the entire township benefits.”
Democrat Meghan Stamatopoulos offered her congratulations to Calamari, Sears, and Velez and praised the lively turnout, noting that “over 4,500 people cast a ballot for mayor — which might be a record.” She said she was proud of “the wave of Democrats in town who, despite feeling outnumbered, showed up,” calling the effort “the beginning of an earnest movement … to ensure our government works for everybody in town, and not just those who align with the right team.”
Rivalry renewed
The 2025 contest marked the second matchup between Calamari and Councilman Michael DeSena, who nearly unseated the mayor four years ago. In 2021, Calamari defeated DeSena by just 49 votes — 1,846 to 1,797 — in one of the closest mayoral races in township history, with turnout
2025 township challengers: IndependentMichael DeSena took a second run at Calamari, coming up behind Democratic challenger Meg Stamatopoulos. Independent Desserie Morgan sought a return to the council.
exceeding 52 percent.
Since then, relations on the dais have often been tense. DeSena, along with allies Steven Cascio and Michael Ullman, has served in a council majority frequently at odds with the mayor Their bloc campaigned in 2021 on cutting the municipal budget by 10 percent — a pledge Calamari
Center: Township of Washington Mayor Peter Calamari surveys Bergen County poll worker training for Westwood Regional High School students on Sept. 30. As the district is composed of the township and the Borough of Westwood, both Calamari and Westwood Mayor Ray Arroyo were invited. Only Calamari was available. He did not interact with the trainees, whose work was nonpartisan and paid. Behind him, lead trainer Wes Wagner of the Bergen County Board of Elections keeps a watchful eye. John Snyder photo.
repeatedly invoked this year, saying the promise had gone unfulfilled.
DeSena countered that the administration had obstructed reform efforts. His then-“Time for Change” slate, running as an Independent with Morgan, sought
to reclaim that mantle of fiscal discipline while calling for greater transparency and resident engagement.
Campaign flashpoints
Much of the campaign centered on the mayorʼs leadership style and how township priorities were communicated and executed.
•Budget pledge: Calamari pressed the 2021 promise by DeSena, C ascio, and Ullman to cut the municipal budget by 10 percent, arguing that the effort had stalled. DeSena and Morgan blamed administrative interfer-
VELEZ SEARS
MORGAN STAMATOPOULOS
DESENA
Column 1 was good to the Republican council incumbents, Daisy Velez and Tom Sears.
Family heirloom with a storied past
BYJONFELZ R.Z.M. FINE ARTS & ANTIQUES INC.
Hi, Jon,
Iʼm sending you pictures of a very old knife that belonged t o my father when he was alive. He said h e acquired it in Europe during World War I. My father lived to be 103 and was one of the last surviving World War I veterans in New York state. Though he is deceased many years now, I still have this knife. I am on my own now, and getting ready to move, so before I give it away to perhaps a family member, I would like to finally come to the knowledge of what it is and whether it has any monetary value to a collector. It has a beautiful stone of some kind on the handle. Three of
Senior appraiser Jon Felz of R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. answers yourquestions on fine art,American coins,and great antiques.Send your questions and photos to rzmantique@aol.com
my relatives want this knife, as I am being constantly reminded, and reminded. I do want to make everybody happy. I value your opinion as to what I should do. I am an avid reader of your article and will certainly miss reading it when I move.
—Sandra
Hello, Sandra!
The ornate “knife” youʼre asking about is actually a 19thcentury Scottish dirk, complete with its original, highly decorated scabbard.
Daggers and knives have been part of both civilian wear and military dress since the earliest days of human toolmaking, but few cultures have elevated them to the level of artistry and symbolism achieved by the Scots.
The dirk, a traditional Highlanderʼs weapon, is among the most iconic of these.
At its most basic, a dirk is a long, straight-bladed dagger — but your example has unique features that mark it as Scottish. The “beautiful stone” on the handle is a highly polished citrine mounted on the pommel, or top of the grip. The scabbard—crafted in black leather and adorned with bronze thistle bands—is etched with
“81st Inf.”, likely referring to the 81st Highlanders Regiment.
The ricasso (the flat section of the blade near the hilt) bears the makerʼs mark: HAMILTON CRIGHTON & CO., EDINBURGH.
This weapon type saw service during the Second Boer War (1899–1902), long before your father might have acquired it during his service in Europe in World War I. Exactly how it came into his possession is anyoneʼs guess, but whatʼs certain is that you own a high-quality antique Scottish Highlanderʼs dirk in exceptional condition. The scabbard even retains its original small fork and knife,
which are often lost to time. Because of its completeness and craftsmanship, the dirkʼs current market value is around $4,000.
Jon Felz: “You have a remarkable heirloom, beautifully preserved, and a tangible link to both Scottish and family history.”
As for keeping peace among your relatives — since itʼs a single item, it canʼt be divided. The fairest course, if all agree, may be to sell the dirk t hrough a reputable military auction house specializing in arms and armor, and divide the proceeds evenly. Such auctions attract the right collectors and ensure the best price.
Yo u have a remarkable heirloom, beautifully preserved, and a tangible link to both Scottish and family history. Whatever you decide, itʼs a piece worth handling with respect and care.
Best wishes in your new home!
R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc.is based at 132 Dexter Ave.,Pearl River,N.Y.Call (845) 735-1313 or visit rzmantiques.com.
EMERSONVOTERSSTICKWITH ARGENZIA, RATIFY ELLIS
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
Republican incumbents Nicole Argenzia and OʼNeil Ellis held their seats on the Borough Council in the Nov. 4 general election, defeating Democratic challengers Michael DeOrio and Jose Organ, according to unofficial results. Argenzia led with 1,860 votes (28.13%), followed closely by Ellis with 1,842 (27.85%). DeOrio received 1,494 (22.59%), and Organ had 1,406 (21.26%).
Nov. 5, the winners posted, “Thank you Emerson! Happy to continue to serve in our amazing town!”
Argenzia, a 23-year borough resident and nurse manager at Hackensack University Medical Center, and Ellis, a volunteer firefighter and youth coach appointed to the council in September to round out local historian Jill McGuireʼs term, campaigned on keeping services strong while holding the line on taxes, improving recreation, and modernizing borough facilities.
DeOrio, a longtime educator and former Land Use Board member, and Organ, a small-business owner, ran on promises to curb spending and increase transparency, particularly around redevelopment, flooding, and deer management.
In our 2025 Election Guide,
both tickets clashed in their approaches to the stalled Block 419/Citizen Emerson Station redevelopment project. The Republican incumbents pointed to the boroughʼs legal victories as validation of their decision to terminate the prior redeveloper, while the Democratic challengers criticized the administrationʼs handling of the litigation and called for the projectʼs completion “as originally planned.”
Argenzia and Ellis also emphasized ongoing drainage upgrades and a boroughwide deer study funded by an $8,000 state grant, while DeOrio and Organ
said residentsʼconcerns and regional coordination should drive those efforts.
Results remain unofficial until all timely, qualified, and eligible votes are counted and the election is certified on Nov. 19. County boards of election have until Nov. 10 to receive postmarked mail-in ballots, and voters have until Nov. 15 to return a cure form to fix a signature or envelope issue. The Board of State Canvassers is scheduled to certify the official 2025 General Election results on Dec. 4.
MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE
Join our ever growing sales team as as Sales Associate for the Pascack Press, Northern Valley Press North and South and near future publications. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 201-664-2105 OR SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net
ARGENZIA ELLIS
Voters pick Dell, Bicocchi; close council contest
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
Republican incumbents Beth Anne Dell and Robert Bicocchi were re-elected to the Borough Council on Nov. 4, defeating Democrats Kyle C. Lagatol and
Kathryn M. Mundhenk, according to unofficial results.
Dell led with 2,421 votes, followed by Bicocchi with 2,386, Lagatol with 2,358, and Mundhenk with 2,318.
Total votes cast: 9,483 for two three-year seats.
Dell and Bicocchi, running as Always Westwood, emphasized fiscal stability, community safety, and continued cooperation across borough boards and local partners.
Lagatol and Mundhenk, on the One Westwood ticket, called for greater transparency, regional partnerships, and sustainable growth.
The candidates largely agreed on taking a regional, humane approach to deer management, investing in long-term flood control, and ensuring thoughtful reuse of Westwood Plaza, the former Kmart site.
Although Erin Collins remains the councilʼs lone Democrat, she and thousands of others in the borough have the satisfaction of having backed Mikie Sherrill, now governor-elect. When Sherrill replaces Phil Murphy,
sheʼll be the stateʼs second female governor, and the first for Democrats. And she managed to extend a partyʼs hold on the governorʼs mansion beyond two terms for the first time in decades.
Six of our eight Pascack Valley communities backed Republican Jack Ciattarelli, while Hillsdale and Westwood went for Sherrill. In Westwood, Sherrill received 2,746 votes to Ciattarelliʼs 2,163. In Hillsdale, she tallied 2,575 votes to Ciattarelliʼs 2,404.
Results remain unofficial until all timely, qualified, and eligible votes are counted and the election is certified on Nov. 19. County boards of election have until Nov. 10 to receive postmarked mail-in ballots, and voters have until Nov. 15 to return a cure form to fix a signature or envelope issue. The Board of State Canvassers is scheduled to certify the official 2025 General Election results on Dec. 4.
Westwood Regional Schools
Superintendent Dr. Patrick J. McQueeney shared a Veterans Day message with the school community Tuesday, reflecting on service, sacrifice, and the values veterans model for students. Pascack Press composite.
Across the Westwood Regional School District, students and staff paused Tuesday to honor the nationʼs veterans. Superintendent Dr. Patrick J. McQueeney said the day “reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy are safeguarded by the courage, commitment, and quiet strength of those who have worn the uniform.”
In a message to parents, staff, and community members, McQueeney shared that Veterans Day holds personal meaning for him. His father is a retired commander in the U.S. Coast Guard, his mother served in the Coast Guard Reserve, and his sister served in the Coast Guard before becoming a nurse. He said their examples of duty and humility shaped his understanding of
Across the Westwood Regional School District,students and staff honor our nation’s veterans.
Superintendent Dr.Patrick J. McQueeney said the day “reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy are safeguarded by the courage,commitment,and quiet strength of those who have worn the uniform.” John Snyder photo.
leadership and the responsibility to support others and the country.
McQueeney noted that many families, staff members, and alumni of the district have served or are cur-
rently serving in the armed forces. “We are grateful for your service and the values you model for our students, including integrity, teamwork, resilience, and respect,” he wrote.
He said schools throughout the district encouraged moments of reflection, age-appropriate learning about the meaning of Veterans Day, and simple expressions of gratitude.
“To our veterans in the Westwood community, thank you,” McQueeney wrote. “Your service strengthens our schools and inspires our students.”
He invited any veterans interested in sharing their experiences with students in the future to reach out to their school principal “so we can explore appropriate opportunities.”
The superintendent closed his message by extending “heartfelt appreciation to all who have served and to the families who stand beside them.”
Hoffman, Goldsmith hold off Greco, Carraher
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
Republican incumbents Gregory Hoffman and Bruce Goldsmith won re-election to the Borough Council on Nov. 4, defeating Democratic challengers Thomas M Greco and Lynda NettleshipCarraher, according to unofficial results from the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office. The two open seats carry full three-year terms.
Hoffman led the field with 2,306 votes (27.20%), followed by Goldsmith with 2,174 (25.64%). Greco received 2,077 (24.50%), and Nettleship-Carraher had 1,919 (22.63%).
Total votes cast: 8,479.
Hoffman, a 32-year borough resident and civil litigation attorney, and Goldsmith, a longtime volunteer and PKRG-TV station manager, ran as the Preserve Park Ridge team. Both emphasized fiscal responsibility, public safety, and opposition to overdevelopment. Hoffman pointed to three consecutive years without a municipal tax increase and a new traffic
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10am to 5pm • Paramus High School 99 East Century Rd., Paramus, NJ 07652
enforcement officer to improve pedestrian safety. Democratic challengers
Thomas Greco and Lynda Nettle-
ship-Carraher, running as Park Ridge United, campaigned on property-tax stability, investment in community facilities, and ending what they called divisive local politics. Greco, a restaurant owner and Park Ridge native, also serves on the Planning Board and Recreation & Culture Committee. NettleshipCarraher, an artist and borough volunteer, serves on the Zoning Board and Diversity & Inclusion Committee.
All four candidates addressed
deer management, supporting humane or regional solutions to control herd size and reduce accidents. Hoffman said the borough should explore sterilization and culling only if necessary, while Goldsmith and the Democrats favored a cooperative Pascack Valley approach guided by wildlife experts.
The Mill Pond dredging referendum, also on the ballot, drew strong voter interest. The public
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HOFFMAN GOLDSMITH
DO-OVERVOTESET NOV. 17 ON DPW AT BETHANY
BYMICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
WASHINGTON
TOWNSHIP — A special Township Council meeting is set for Monday, Nov. 17, at 6 p.m. at Town Hall to redo last weekʼs vote on the controversial Bethany Community Center lease, after officials confirmed the 2–1 approval was not legally valid.
Township Clerk Sue Witkowski said the do-over is required because, under the Faulkner Act form of government, ordinances must pass by “a majority vote of the full authorized membership” — meaning at least three affirmative votes on the fivemember council. The Nov. 10 vote in favor of the $104,400, 18month lease was 2–1, with two members absent.
Pascack Press raised the quo-
Nov.6, the new driveway,fencing, gates,and black privacy screening appeared to have been completed.
rum issue with the mayor, administrator, and township attorney the morning after the vote but received no response. At press time Witkowski confirmed that the special meeting will be posted on the township website.
The lease would allow the township to store DPW vehicles and equipment on 1.25 acres behind Bethany Community Center while the new $4.9 million
DPW facility is built next to Town Hall. Residents along Woodfield Road strongly objected to the plan, citing pedestrian safety, truck traffic, noise, and the fear that “temporary” storage could become long-term.
Even before last weekʼs vote, the township had already installed a driveway, fencing, gates, and privacy screening at Bethany at a stated cost of $57,700, prompting additional questions about transparency and process.
Mayor Peter Calamari has said the Bethany lot will be used only for the duration of the construction period and that alternative storage sites proved unworkable. Residents remain skeptical.
Pascack Press welcomes brief, signed, respectful letters to the editor on timely local topics at editor@thepressgroup.net
This Holiday Season
Calamari:
Gratitude This Holiday Season
As we enter this holiday season, there seems to be an undeniable sense of uncertainty both at home and abroad. But, whatever circumstances that we may be facing, we can always find a reason to be thankful. 1st Thessalonians chapter 5 verse 18, tells us, “In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God.
This means that even when we don’t feel the holiday spirit, there must be something that we can be grateful for. We can celebrate being alive, having good health and great relationships with our families and friends. If we take a few seconds to think, we can surely find something to be thankful for.
FROM PAGE 7
ence and shifting parameters after budgets were finalized.
•DPW siting: Morgan said she supported rebuilding the Department of Public Works on its original Town Hall site but criticized what she described as Calamariʼs “habit of disrupting residential pockets under the guise of temporary solutions that are rarely, if ever, temporary.” Calamari defended the townʼs approach as practical and environmentally compliant.
•Social-media dispute: Late in the campaign, Independent Morgan accused the Calamari–Sears–Velez team of using a select unflatteringn frame from a personal video from her Face-
book page in an attack ad, calling it “cruel” and “beneath anyone who claims to want to serve this community.”
The Calamari campaign did not respond publicly before Election Day.
Issues and turnout
Key township issues raised in our 2025 Election Guide included deer management, the former Swim Club property cleanup, and the 450 Pascack Road open-space acquisition.
Calamariʼs slate called for continued coordination with neighboring towns and adherence to state wildlife guidance; Stamatopoulos advocated public education and humane controls; and DeSena and Morgan promoted a data-driven regional approach incorporating non-lethal fertility options.
All candidates backed continued environmental remediation at the former swim club property, differing mainly on communication and reuse plans. Roughly 4,048 residents cast ballots in the mayoral race — about 61 percent turnout, among the highest in Bergen County. Results remain unofficial until all timely, qualified, and eligible votes are counted and the election is certified on Nov. 19. County boards of election have until Nov. 10 to receive postmarked mail-in ballots, and voters have until Nov. 15 to correct a signature or envelope issue. The Board of State Canvassers is scheduled to certify official results on Dec. 4.
Disclosure: The author of this article voted in the Township of Washington.
Thanksgiving Craft Show returns Nov. 30
THE ULTIMATE Holiday
Shopping Event — the annual Thanksgiving Craft Show — returns to Paramus High School, 99 East Century Road, on Sunday, Nov. 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Featuring 140 exhibitors from three states, the show fills both gyms, the vestibule, and cafe areas with an expanded mix of
Food and drinks will be available in the café. The event is sponsored by Project Graduation and organized by P.J.’s Promotions.
arts, crafts, and photography. Favorite returning artisans join new vendors this year, offering everything from holiday décor to handmade gifts.
Shoppers will find apparel, florals, resin art, jewelry, table runners, pillows, hand-knitted items, crochet animals, handpainted ornaments, glassware, door signs, jeweled utensils, and art, plus photography, glass butterflies, wood bowls, charcuterie boards, birdhouses, bonsai, origa-
mi, soaps, candles, stained glass, and sports-themed clocks. Outdoors, visitors can browse chainsaw-carved animals, homemade pickles, beef jerky, desserts, kettle corn, and tie-dye.
Food and drinks will be avail-
able in the café The event is sponsored by Project Graduation and organized by P.J.ʼs Promotions. Admission is $3.For more information, visit pjspromotions.com or call (201) 410-5416.
Rockettes Christmas Spectacular tickets
Make your plans to kick-off your holiday celebrations with a trip to see the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes on Sunday, Nov. 16.
Tickets for residents are at $150per person; $165 per person for others. All tickets include the show and coach bus. The trip is organized by the Westwood Recreation Department.
Since 1933, The Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio
City Rockettes has been an annual musical holiday stage show presented at Radio City Music Hall. The 90-minute digitally enhanced show features more than 140 performers and an original musical score, and combines singing, dancing and humor. The show is known for the Rockettesʼ iconic kick-line choreography of tap and jazz routines.
Camels, sheep and donkey are featured in the productionʼs
Living Nativity.
The coach bus will leave the Westwood Community Center at 9:30 a.m. for a 2 p.m. showtime, allowing 3.5 hours for lunch and shopping. Return time is scheduled for 4 p.m.
Tickets are in the orchestra section and can be purchased at the Westwood Community Center at 55 Jefferson Ave. Cash, checks, Visa & Mastercard are accepted. Only 55 tickets are available.
Westwood Senior Fellowship meets Nov. 18
The Westwood Senior Fellowship Club next meets Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 11:30 a.m. at the Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. Coffee, tea, and cake will be served, entertainment will be provided by the fantastic Anthony Duke Claus, and members will collect payment ($40 per ticket) for the clubʼs holiday luncheon, set for Tuesday, Dec. 9, at Armandoʼs in River Vale. (Those who prefer may make arrangements directly with Rita at 201-666-1755. Doors open at 11:30 a.m.)
Field lights due to be grounded; revaluations for 2026
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON
Township Administrator
Mark DiCarlo said Nov. 10 that a contractor will soon begin grounding the 10 light poles at Memorial Field to reduce the risk of electric shock, following a recent discovery that the poles posed a hazard.
DiCarlo said K. Hanrahan Enterprises of Fair Lawn, which upgraded the fieldʼs floodlights to LEDs in 2021, will perform the work. The project includes grounding each pole, replacing switch covers, and adding protective padding at each base to help prevent injuries from falls.
He said the contract cost is $21,389.80, compared with a more than $40,000 proposal submitted by S.M. Electric Group.
For background, see “Memorial Field Shock Warnings: Accident surfaces wiring concern over 10 newer light poles; town says fixes due ʻsoonʼ” by Michael Olohan, Oct. 31, 2025, thepressgroup.net.
DiCarlo also said Hanrahan will replace several floodlights that have burned out since their 2021 installation. The LED lights
A contractor will soon begin grounding the 10 light poles at Memorial Field to reduce the risk of electric shock, following a recent discovery that the poles posed a hazard. Mike Olohan photo.
carry a five-year warranty, he noted, but the township must rent a lift to reach them.
New property reassessments in 2026
In other business, DiCarlo reported that township revaluation inspectors have gained entry to
about 67% of homes. Sales analysis and preliminary values are underway, and Appraisal Systems Inc. (ASI), the firm conducting the reassessment, expects to mail n ew valuation letters in early 2026.
After the initial revaluation, 25% of township properties will be physically inspected each year to keep valuations current, while all properties will be reassessed annually to reflect market changes and prevent sudden shifts in assessed value, officials said.
New property values will take effect for the 2026 tax year and reflect market conditions as of Oct. 1, 2025. Homeowners will receive notice of their proposed assessments by mail and will have an opportunity to appeal.
Residents with unique property conditions that may affect value may submit documentation to: Appraisal Systems, Inc. 17-17 Route 208 North, Suite 210
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
On Sept. 9, 2024, the Township Council approved Resolution 24-309, awarding a five-year, $470,000 contract for townshipwide reassessment services to Appraisal Systems. It was the only bid received.
For background, see “Town-
ship reassessment underway; inter ior inspections urged,” by
Michael Olohan, March 22, 2025, thepressgroup.net.
Artists upcycle waste into wonder at HFPL
Throughout November, the Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave., is showcasing artists who find beauty in what most of us throw away.
River Vale resident Kanchan Devarakonda combines her commitment to sustainable living with her artistic eye in A Journey from
See these and more at the Hillsale Free Public Library
Giraffe, Hedgehog, Turkeys from Hillsdale resident Joan (Marsala) Morse. Dried Flowers and Kanchan from River Vale resident Kanchan Devarakonda. Courtesy.
Waste to Art, on view in the libraryʼs Meeting Room Gallery.
Nearly every element in her work has been repurposed — from dried flowers and leaves to playing cards, egg cartons, and glass bottles.
“While maintaining a decluttered abode and getting rid of useless items is certainly advisable, an artistic spin on these very items can lead to some very interesting pieces of art and can also help save the environment,” Devarakonda says in the libraryʼs
invitation. “The intent of this exhibit is to emphasize this fact.”
All of Devarakondaʼs pieces are for sale, with proceeds benefiting the library.
In the lobby display cases, visitors will also find a whimsical menagerie of animals crafted from empty walnut shells and other everyday materials. The Go Nuts! exhibit, by lifelong Hillsdale resident Joan (Marsala) Morse, celebrates decades of joyful creativity.
Morse began making walnut animals years ago as a way to stay connected with her daughter in college, later rekindling the tradition for her granddaughter. After retiring, she expanded her collection into a playful assortment of creatures designed to surprise and
delight.
A lifelong crafter, Morse has transformed all kinds of discarded items — from bowling pins and light bulbs to old paintbrushes — into seasonal art. Her handmade Christmas decorations became
cherished gifts among family and friends.
“The library is excited to have two exhibits that demonstrate the depth and range of art that can be created through upcycling,” said library director Dave Franz. “This
type of art embodies the libraryʼs ʻThink It! Make It! Share It!ʼphilosophy and encourages the innovative use of materials.”
For more information, visit hfpl.org.
Hoffman:
FROM PAGE 11
favored the $5 million bonding option, not the $10 million proposal. Hoffman and Goldsmith had pledged to respect votersʼ decision, while Greco and Nettleship-Carraher supported the higher investment as a long-term solution to prevent dam failure and
RIVER VALE
Seniors meet Nov. 19 for birthday fun
The River Vale Senior Friendship Club will meet Wednesday, Nov. 19, to celebrate membersʼbirthdays from June through December. The meeting will feature birthday cake, and entertainment by Kevin Grace, performing hits from the 1950s. This is the final meeting before reservations and payments are due members and non-members — for the Brownstoneʼs Early New Yearʼs Eve Party on Dec. 31. The Nov. 19 meeting is for members only, but new members are always welcome. For membership information, call Angie at (201) 6663888. For trip information, call Hilda at (201) 265-5257.
improve water quality.
On social media after the election, Hoffman and Goldsmith thanked residents, writing, “Thank you, Park Ridge! Weʼre truly honored by your trust and support. Serving this community is a privilege, and weʼre excited to continue working together to keep Park Ridge strong and thriving.”
With Tuesdayʼs outcome, Republicans maintain their council majority. Results remain unof-
HILLSDALE
ficial until all timely, qualified, and eligible votes are counted and the election is certified on Nov. 19. County boards of election have until Nov. 10 to receive postmarked mail-in ballots, and voters have until Nov. 15 to return a cure form to fix a signature or envelope issue. The Board of State Canvassers is scheduled to certify the official 2025 General Election results on Dec. 4.
Helping Hand sounds alarm on need
The Helping Hand Food Pantry, at Hillsdale United Methodist Church, 349 Hillsdale Ave., is asking for the communityʼs support as supplies run low heading into the holiday season. Monetary donations and gift cards are always welcome and may be dropped off at the pantry. Items currently in high demand include sugar, flour, coffee, tea, apple juice, shelf-stable milk, baby food (stages 1 and 3), meat sauce, oil, ketchup, grape jelly, canned yams, canned pineapple, peaches and pears, egg noodles,
boxed potatoes, ramen noodles, mayonnaise, mustard, whole tomatoes, tomato paste, black olives, mushrooms, cookies, crackers, and breakfast bars. Non-food items needed include shampoo, conditioner, pump soap, deodorant, toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissues, and diapers (sizes 5–7). For more information or to make a contribution, visit hillsdalenj.govoffice3.com or contact the Helping Hand Food Pantry at Hillsdale United Methodist Church.
Giulio’s Restaurant
NJ 07675
Council intros PILOT plan for former BMW site
BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS
WOODCLIFFLAKE
The Borough Council on Nov. 10 introduced an ordinance authorizing a 30-year payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement for a proposed mixed-use redevelopment on the former BMW North America headquarters site at 300 Chestnut Ridge Road. A final public hearing is expected Dec. 8.
The 21-acre project, advanced by RW Woodcliff Lake Urban Renewal LLC — a joint venture of Russo Development and Woodmont Properties — calls for 370 housing units, including 47 townhomes, 297 apartments (34 of them affordable), and a 26unit supportive housing building offering 40 beds for residents with special needs. Two retail spaces totaling 9,000 square feet, 912 parking spaces, and 40 landbanked spaces are also planned.
A hearing before the Land Use Board on the redevelopment plan was set for Nov. 13 to review its consistency with the boroughʼs Master Plan.
Financial terms
Under Ordinance 25-12, the redeveloper would make annual “service charge” payments in place of standard property taxes, as follows:
• 10% of gross revenue for years 1–10
•11% for years 11–17
• 12% for years 18–23
•13% for years 24–25
•14% for years 26–27
• 15% for years 28–30
The ordinance states that the PILOT is “essential to the success
of the project” and will provide “a stream of revenue in the form of annual service charges,” adding that the stability of those charges will help the developer and tenants “stabilize their expenses.” No estimates of anticipated revenue were included in the ordinance. Pascack Press requested the financial agreement Nov. 11 but had not received it by press time.
Background and rationale
At a Sept. 15 meeting, Russo
Development CEO Edward Russo said the plan was refined several times to balance market-rate, affordable, and supportive housing, along with public open space.
He said roughly half the site will remain open, with a public walking path. Russo estimated the project could yield $54 million more in revenue than current office use and as much as $78 million more over 30 years under the PILOT, with 95% of payments going to the borough and 5% to
Bergen County. (Editorʼs note: These figures have not been independently verified.)
Russo also cited a 15% to 20% decline in local school enrollment over recent decades, suggesting the project would not add “a meaningful number” of new students.
The council also adopted a resolution Nov. 10 designating RW Woodcliff Lake Urban Renewal LLC as the official redeveloper for the site.
Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide
National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month
Advertisement
By Dr. Eric Kaplan, DC, DACNB, FACFN, FABVR
NO VEMB ER i s National Alzheimerʼs Disease Awareness Month, and hereʼs a s obering fact: according to the Alzheimerʼs A ssociation, more than 6.9 million Americ ans are currently living with Alzheimerʼs — and that number is expected to double by 2050. But hereʼs the good news: your brain is not doomed. Despite what youʼve been told, memory loss is not an inevitable part of aging — itʼs a
sign your brain needs a tune-up.
S ome experts have even nicknamed Alzheimerʼs “Type 3 diabetes,” because sugar and insulin resistance donʼt just hurt your waistline — they can inflame your brain. When your n eurons become resistant to insulin, they canʼt get the glucose they need for energy, so they start b reaking down. Imagine your brain as a car running on bad fuel youʼre not going far before something starts smoking.
Before you rush to the pharmacy for the next “miracle pill,” remember: thereʼs no magic cure for Alzheimerʼs. The best way to beat it is to prevent it as much as possible. Prevention starts with lifestyle — and one of the biggest keys to a healthy brain is novelty.
Thatʼs right — your brain craves new experiences. It thrives on challenge and change. Doing the same thing every day is like feeding your brain the same flavor of oatmeal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner — eventually, it gets boring and sluggish. Try taking a new route to work, learning an instrument, or even brushing your teeth with your opposite hand. Anything new lights up fresh neural pathways. Itʼs the neuroscience version of strength training — but for your neurons instead of your muscles.
Letʼs talk about the silent killer of the brain: stress. Chronic stress shrinks the hippocampus the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning.
DR. ERIC KAPLAN, DC
Think of stress as the worldʼs worst landlord: it moves into your brain rent-free, makes noise all night, and leaves a mess when it finally goes.
And what about all the environmental exposures our modern world serves up? Some researchers have raised concerns about high levels of fluoride, alum inum, pesticides, and other chemicals and their potential impact on brain health. Excessive fluoride exposure, for example, has been linked in some studies to neurotoxicity; aluminum is found
in everyday products such as antiperspirants, cookware, and certain medications, and elevated levels have been reported in some A lzheimerʼs patients. While research continues and not all scientists agree on how strong these links are, itʼs reasonable to be mindful about your overall toxic load.
Then there are pesticides and herbicides, which are designed to kill small organisms — and your neurons arenʼt exactly fans of them either. Some long-term
CONTINUED ON PAGE 28
Keeping pets safe
Sixty dogs and cats were vaccinated against rabies at the Montvale Rabies Clinic held Saturday, Nov. 1. Pictured are members of the Montvale Board of Health, the board secretary, the animal control officer, and the veterinarian. The dogs pictured belong to a Montvale resident.
Holiday community service event
PARAMUS — Bergen Volunteers invites the community to its annual holiday service event, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, on Sunday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration required at bergenvolunteers.org.
Volunteers of all ages are welcome to stop by to help assemble essential care gifts for local shelters, food pantries, childrenʼs services, senior programs, and more. Community service hours are available. Canʼt attend? Donations are welcome to support the effort.
For questions, contact Hilary Baris at hbaris@bergenvolunteers.org. For sponsorship information, contact Debbie Corwin at dcorwin@bergenvolunteers.org. Registration includes a donation benefiting neighbors in need.
MONTVALE
Joyce Cohen
When to claim your Social Security benefits
Wcome s to Social Security and retirement, you may have conflicting viewpoints: On one side, you may hope to collect your benefits as soon as you are eligible due to cash flow needs or other goals. On the other side, you know that if you wait, your monthly benefit amount will be greater. While it may make sense to wait as long as you can, Sherman Hohen-
berger, lead business growth strategy consultant at Wealth & Investment Management, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., recommends you reevaluate your situation every year in retirement before deciding whether to continue delaying the beginning of Social Security benefits.
“Because each individual, couple, widow, and widower has a unique lifestyle and unique income needs, I believe a year-by-year evaluation prior to beginning benefits is the best approach,” Hohenberger says.
One item you need for that annual retirement review is a current copy of your Social Security benefit
estimate from ssa.gov. This provides personalized estimates of future benefits based on your real earnings and lets you see your latest statement and your earnings history. Here, Hohenberger outlines a comparison of claiming now vs. later and offers key considerations as you review your strategy each year.
Comparison:
Claiming sooner vs. later
Letʼs start with a hypothetical example: John Doe was born in 1960, is retired, and he decided to claim benefits as soon as he became eligible at age 62, or five years before his
full retirement benefit age of 67. His monthly benefit in todayʼs dollars is $2,106. If he had delayed receiving benefits until he was 70, heʼd receive $1,625 more a month, or $3,731. And he would make up for the eight-year delay in not taking any benefits in about 10 years. “Unlike personal assets that can be exhausted, Social Security is a vast resource provided by the U. S. government. As long as you are alive, you should continue to receive your Social Security benefits and with a cost-of-living adjustment throughout your retirement years.”
Make wellness a deciding factor
Your health can play a big role in helping determine when you should start taking benefits. Do your loved ones live long lives, or have most succumbed to illness before age 65? “Itʼs not the most accurate indicator of whatʼs going to transpire in the future, but it can have some bearing, and therefore should be taken into consideration,” Hohenberger says.
“If youʼre in reasonably good health and anticipate a continued healthy lifestyle, that usually counsels in favor of waiting,” he continues. “If, on the other hand, youʼre in poorer health and have concerns about longevity, that counsels toward drawing benefits sooner rather than later.”
Do you have enough income?
Another key factor is having other sources of income to help you live comfortably in retirement without needing Social Security benefits. He says you should consider the rate of return Social Security offers: 6.25% – 8.00% (plus a cost-of-living increase).
“I ask: ʻIs that an attractive return to you over the next 12 months?ʼ” he says. “And given the current interest rate environment and unpredictability of the securities markets, the response is typically a resounding yes.”
Considerations for married couples
Hohenberger suggests married clients look at multiple factors when determining the timing for each spouse to claim Social Security benefits.
For example, if youʼre working part time or seasonally,your Social Security benefits may be dramatically lower if your partner is working full-time. It still may be wise for both of you to wait, if possible.
“Not only does waiting to claim increase the size of the benefit that the [higher earning] individual personally receives, but it also increases the size of whatʼs known as the survivorʼs benefit that the [lower earning] spouse could draw
if the other spouse passes away,” Hohenberger says.
Keep in mind that the current average life expectancy of a 65-year-old man is about 84 years, while a woman that age can expect to live until around age 87, according to the Social Security Administration.
What about taxes?
When it comes to when to claim Social Security benefits, Hohenberger advises not to focus primarily on the tax ramifications.
“For the vast majority of people, their marginal tax rate in retirement will likely be fairly constant,” Hohenberger says. “If retirees were to take their Social Security benefit at 62, we typically see that their marginal tax rate is the same or approximately the same as it would be if they claimed the benefit at age 70. We want [them] to focus instead on working to help maximize the net cash flow over the remainder of their lifetime.”
Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management (WIM) offers financial products and services through affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company.
Wells Fargo & Company and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. This communication cannot be relied upon to avoid tax penalties. Please consult your tax and legal advisors to determine how this information may apply to your own situation. Whether anyplanned tax result is realized by you depends on the specific facts of your own situation at the time your tax return is filed. This article was written byWells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director –Investments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.
Investment and Insurance Products are:
• Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency
• Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate
Hosted by Lori Fredrics, In Conversation with Terre Roche pairs
tour of familiar Park Ridge locations.
At left, Terre Roche of The Roches sits ‘In Conversation’ with KPRG-TV’s Lori Fredrics. Photo credit KPRG-TV At right: Park Ridge sisters Suzzy, Maggie, and Terre Roche, The Roches, in a 1980 Warner Bros. Records promotional photo. Below, at PRHS’s Little Theater, which helped shape Terre as a performer. Photo credit KPRG-TV.
Highlights include a neverbefore-recorded 1960s campaign song written about then-Council candidates Bob Graham and Howard Ford, rediscovered and performed for the program.
A remarkable town to grow up inʼ
During the interview, Roche lights up recalling her childhood.
“We moved here from Westchester when I was in fifth
grade,” she tells Fredrics. “My best friend from back then, Jeannie Walsh, still gets mad when I say
Bearʼs Nest, the Girl Scout cabins… Maggie and I would walk and dream about meeting Paul
Iʼm from New Jersey. But Park Ridge — thatʼs where I really grew up, from fifth grade through high school. Those are the formative years, when you start becoming a wise guy.”
As the two women laugh, Roche describes the world they both knew as children — safe, wooded, and full of possibility.
“I look back on Park Ridge and it was a remarkable town to grow up in,” she says. “I thought the whole world was like that — beautiful and safe. The Glen, the
Simon. We lived right down the street from those woods. You just went out your front door — nature was right there.”
Fredrics, smiling, tells her, “Well, Park Ridge has to claim you,” before leading Roche back into more memories — their laughter blending with the music that underscores much of the program.
Maggie (1951–2017), Terre (born 1953), and Suzzy (born 1956) Roche began singing
See ROCHE on page 24
Gift:
FROM PAGE 4
galleries, climate-controlled storage, and expanded educational programming. Exhibits will showcase artifacts rarely or never displayed, including the 1802 Hopper Tavern sign, Native American tools and art, Colonel von Steubenʼs Revolutionary War-era “Blue Book,” and a broad archive of maps and artwork.
Historic New Bridge Landing, known as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution,” played a pivotal role during Gen. George
Washingtonʼs 1776 retreat across the Hackensack River and later served as a strategic encampment for both American and British forces.
Exhibits will interpret these defining events and their impact on the nationʼs founding.
BCHS aims to complete construction in 2026, aligning with the nationʼs 250th anniversary.
“This is a rare opportunity to be part of something historic,” said Deborah Powell, chair of the BCHS Building Committee. “We invite others to join this effort by making a meaningful gift and being recognized among the donors helping us build a lasting
legacy.”
Officials attending the groundbreaking included Roger Gross; BCHS President Beverly Hashimoto; Building Chair Deborah Powell; Fundraising Advisory Committee Leader Joe Langan; Chief of Staff to County Executive James Tedesco, Tom Duch; River Edge Mayor Tom Papaleo; Bergen County Clerk John Hogan; FDU Executive Director of Community Relations Anita Rivers; and former Bergen County Executive Pat Schuber.
For information on contributing, visit bergencountyhistory.org/ support or call (201) 493-7996.
Turnout:
FROM PAGE 1
general elections, following Gov. Phil Murphyʼs approval of an early voting law in 2021.
Your many letters to the editor, questions at forums, and conversations around town helped shape this campaign season and reminded us what local democracy looks like when people truly show up. Whatever your sign or sticker, you made your voice part of a larger civic chorus, and we thank you.
The results reported so far are unofficial. The Bergen County Board of Elections is still receiving, canvassing, and counting paper ballots—including mail-in and provisional votes—before certifying the election. Once all eligible ballots are added and any challenges resolved, the County Clerkʼs Office will post the official results. If margins remain exceptionally close, a formal recount may be requested under state election law.
Inside this issue: unofficial results from municipal Emerson, Hillsdale, Montvale, Park Ridge, River Vale, Township of Washington, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake, with our context.
For our full archive of 2025 contested-races coverage — governor and other up-ticket bouts, and mayor, council, and school board races, with candidate bios —visit thepressgroup.net.
Here, facts from this election as shared with us from the Bergen County elections team:
Early in person voting blows by vote-by-mail
Early in-person voting turnout exceeded vote by mail turnout in all eight Pascack Valley communities for the first time, in the Nov. 4 gubernatorial election, with Woodcliff Lake voters surpassing every other town, with over 27%, or 1,362 out of 4,994 registered voters, heading to vote in-person early.
That might have been influenced by the early polling location at Tice Senior Center, 411 Chestnut Ridge Road, that was open from Oct. 25 through Nov. 2.
“After a robust early (in-person) voting cycle for the Presidential Election of 112,645 voters, we were confident more voters would take advantage of the nine days of Early Voting for this gubernatorial election, and they did,” said Debra Francica, county superintendent of elections.
Francica noted, “Itʼs evident that early voting has become more popular for Bergenʼs electorate because people have busy lives with work, and their family schedules, which is why a great number of them now choose to vote early,” she told us.
Generally, five days of early voting occurs in primaries and nine days of early voting in general elections, officials said. Bergen County offers nine early inperson voting polling places — including Woodcliff Lake and River Vale — and each site offers
Michael Olohan covers elections, budgets, land use, and education. He’s at olohan@thepressgroup.net
voters specific ballots for each of the countyʼs 70 towns.
In Bergen County on Nov. 4, 51.1% of 671,000 registered voters cast ballots, or 343,187 voters. Of those, 67.697 voted early inperson; 58,426 voted by mail; and 217,064 voted on Election Day, Nov. 4, according to unofficial county results.
During this yearʼs primary election on June 10, more than 500,000 voters statewide cast early voting ballots, including 148,686 early in-person voters and 317,984 mail-in ballots
Unofficial election results posted on the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office website under “Unofficial General Election 2025 District Report” show that 27.27% of Woodcliff Lakeʼs voters cast early in-person ballots; 548 voters, or 10.97% voted by mail, and 1,103 voters, or 22.09%, went to the polls on Election Day. Besides the borough, most Pascack Valley towns had the majority of voters going to the polls on Election Day.
PV towns show 53% to 62% voter turnout Voter turnout in seven of eight valley towns was within 3 percentage points of each other, ranging from a low of 58.82% in Westwood to a top voter turnout of 61.7% in Washington Township. Only Montvale was an outlier at 53.67% voter turnout.
The top three towns were within a 0.25% margin of voter turnout.. Nonetheless, every Pascack Valley town had a higher percent voter turnout than the countywide average of 51.1%.
Hereʼs a list of eight PV towns in order of voter turnout. The listing shows total registered voters, number of ballots cast, and overall voting percentages.
The percentages are unofficial and will be certified by Nov 19, said county election officials.
• Township of Washington Total 7750; 4782; 61.70%
• Park Ridge Total 7314; 4510; 61.66%
• Emerson Total 5679; 3490; 61.45%
•Woodcliff Lake Total 4994; 3013; 60.33%
•Hillsdale Total 8460; 5076; 60.00%
•River Vale Total 8702; 5213; 59.91%
•Westwood Total 8500; 5000; 58.82%
•Montvale Total 7404; 3974; 53.67%
Benefit concert for Meals on Wheels, food pantry
Free “Bergen Cares” Concert to Benefit Meals on Wheels
North Jersey and Tri Boro Food Pantry
Join in an inspiring evening of music and community at the “Bergen Cares” Benefit Concert, Sunday, Nov. 23 at 4 p.m. at the Park Ridge High School Theater, at 2 Park Ave.
This free concert aims to raise awareness and support for
Post 162 seeks names of servicemembers
As the holiday season approaches—a time when cards and letters mean so much to our active service members—the American Legion Post 162 is updating its mailing list and needs your help.
Each year, these service members receive an assortment of cards, letters, and drawings from local schoolchildren.
If you know of anyone from the Hillsdale, Woodcliff Lake, or Old Tappan area who is on active duty, please send their name and mailing address to the American Legion at: Letters@ AmericanLegionPost162.org.
WESTWOOD
Calling all caregivers
Are you supporting a loved one facing a suspected or diagnosed disease of the brain—such as stroke, Parkinsonʼs, Alzheimerʼs, or another form of dementia? Join others in a kind, supportive, and nurturing group that meets to share experiences, advice, ideas, and guidance through open communication. The next meeting will be held Saturday, Nov. 8 at 10:30 a.m. at the Westwood Public Library, 49 Park Ave. All are welcome, and advance registration is not required. Sessions are facilitated by a representative from the Alzheimerʼs Association of Bergen County.
Meals on Wheels North Jersey and the Tri-Boro Food Pantry, two vital organizations working t o combat food insecurity in North Bergen County. Attendees are encouraged to make monetary donations at the door or in advance at mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org. Sponsorships are also available through the site.
The evening will feature a dynamic lineup of performers
including:
• The Chapin Sisters
•Joe DʼUrso with Seth Saltzman
•Rennie & Bob Playing Simon & Garfunkel
•Allie Kenny
•Tailgate Time Machine
• The Quinn Sisters
•And surprise acts!
Janelle Larghi, executive d irector of Meals on Wheels
BOOKMARKTHESE HFPL NOVEMBEREVENTS
The Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave., has announced the following events for November:
•Friday, Nov. 17 — 7 p.m.
Shakey: An Evening with Neil Young... Almost. A tribute concert; drop in.
•Monday, Nov. 18 — 6:30 p.m.
•Know the Bear Facts. Wildlife safety presentation; registration required.
•Friday, Nov. 29 — 11 a.m. Yoga Basics: Mind and Movement. Registration required.
Ongoing programs: Chair Yoga is held Thursdays at 11 a.m., and Tai Chi on the Patio meets Mondays at 11 a.m. Both require registration.
For information or to register, visit hfpl.org or email michele.kilmurray@hfpl.org.
North Jersey and pantry coordinator for the Tri Boro Food Pantry, tells Pascack Press, “This is a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to come together, enjoy live
music, and support a meaningful cause.”
She adds, “Iʼm hoping that we can all unite together to fight hunger and uplift our community—because Bergen Cares ”
PARK RIDGE
Errity, Wells inspire as Chamber Citizens of the Year
BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS
TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON
Nearly 200 community members, business leaders, and officials gathered Oct. 21 at Seasons Catering as the Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 51st Annual Citizens of the Year Gala, recognizing Jennifer Keilly Errity of Woodcliff Lake and Peter Raymond Wells of Park Ridge.
Citizen of the Year awards have been given by the Greater Pascack Valley Chamber of Commerce every year since Harold Effron was first honored in 1974.
Effron exemplified the spirit of giving back without expecting anything in return — most notably as an honorary member of the Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department.
Both were presented with the Chamberʼs highest civic honor and Joint Legislative Resolutions from the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly, sponsored by Sen. Holly Schepisi and Assemblymen
Coughlin, commend the honorees for “extraordinary professional accomplishments and exemplary volunteer service.”
Mentorship and compassion
Errity, District Community Internship Facilitator for the Pascack Valley Regional High School District, connects students with real-world learning opportunities that promote leadership and service. She is co-founder and president of Spoil Me Pink, which supports breast cancer survivors, and serves on the board of Josephineʼs Garden at Hackensack University Medical Center.
“Receiving such an award is really something special,” Wells said. “It was more than something for one — it was for all those that are a part of oneʼs life. I felt like I was saying thank you on behalf of everyone in our community who tries to make a difference.
“I encourage us all to find common ground, and to live with joy and faith, in honesty, humility, and service to others. Success is only when it is for us all.”
A night of recognition
Robert Auth and Joseph Azzariti Jr. The proclamations, signed by
and Assembly Speaker Craig
ROOFING • SIDING • WATERPROOFING
She also leads the PV Network, linking students with local organizations and charitable causes. “I was so humbled and honored to receive this coveted award alongside Peter Wells, a true pillar of our community,” she said. “The most special moment came after the event when one of my guests told me sheʼd been inspired to start her own charity in honor of her father and asked for my help. That truly made the evening unforgettable.”
A life of service
Wells, a Rhode Island School of Design graduate, has overseen more than 4,500 commercial projects through his familyʼs architectural firm, serving the region for over half a century. A Rotarian for more than 40 years, his civic service extends to local Chambers of Commerce, the Jaycees, Girl Scouts, hospital foundations, and the Bergen County Community Blood Center
Introducing the honorees were Nicole Marian, a close friend of Errity, and Phil Wells, Peterʼs son. Presentations included commendations from the Bergen County Board of Commissioners, County Executive James Tedesco III, and plaques from Chamber President Tony Pallogudis. Proceeds from the gala benefit the Skip Kelley Memorial Scholarship Fund, which provides 10 annual scholarships across seven area high schools, as well as charities chosen by the honorees.
Founded in the mid-1970s, the Chamber supports local businesses and civic engagement across Montvale, Woodcliff Lake, Park Ridge, River Vale, Old Tappan, Hillsdale, Washington Township, Westwood, Emerson, and Oradell.
Current officers are Tony Pallogudis, president; Anthony Rizzo, vice president; Kenneth Baron, treasurer; Greg Giardino, secretary; and Ralph Crespo, technology director
For more information, visit pascackchamber.org.
Club News?
Let us help promote your club or organization. Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or mail to: Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675
We have a well used office... used by literally thousands of people over the last 30 years, all seeking and receiving solid professional advice and service.
We’ve been trained to serve your needs and solve your problems and, for the most part that’s what we do. Obviously, every case is not winable and every crisis doesn’t vanish over night...but appropriate measures taken at the right time can improve situations that once looked hopeless.
We care about our clients and we try to give them the very best that is in us. That’s our promise, so if you need legal help and don’t mind visiting a well used office...give us a call.
Senate President Nicholas Scutari
F rom left: C hamber Vice President Anthony Rizzo, Technology Director Ralph Crespo, Citizens of the Year Peter Wells and Jennifer Keilly Errity, Treasurer Ken Baron, and President Tony Pallogudis at Seasons on Oct. 21. GPVCOC photo.
REAL ESTATE
PV’s bold ‘The Laramie Project’ Nov. 20–22
The award-winning Pascack Valley High School Theatre Company presents The Laramie Project by Mois é s Kaufman and members of Tectonic Theater Project, Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 20–22, at 7 p.m., with a 1 p.m. Saturday matinee, in the schoolʼs Lower Cafeteria, 200 Piermont Ave.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students, available at pvhstheatre.org.
Directed by longtime PV Theatre leaders Tom and Merielle Lupfer, the production revisits the powerful documentary drama they last staged at Pascack Valley 14 years ago—a performance that earned the MSU Foxy Award for Best Drama.
This time, the Lupfers return to the landmark work with a new generation of students: 33 performers in all, including 13 seniors who have appeared in every PV Theatre production of their high school careers and 17 first-
RIVER VALE
year students making their stage debuts.
Because the schoolʼs auditorium is under renovation, PV Theatre is transforming the Lower Cafeteria into an intimate theatrein-the-round, immersing audiences in the emotion, urgency, and humanity of The Laramie Projectʼs true story.
Written in response to the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming, The Laramie Project chronicles how a community grappled with tragedy, intolerance, and the search for understanding. More than 20 years later, the play remains a cornerstone of contemporary American theatre—inviting audiences to reflect on compassion, justice, and the ongoing work toward equality.
The production continues PV Theatreʼs tradition of tackling bold, socially relevant work. Known for high-caliber productions that inspire both artists and audiences, PV Theatre strives to
Corcoran Infinity, Jersey Cares coat drive
tic bags to the Corcoran Infinity Properties office, 213 Rivervale Road, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Collection runs through Jan. 6, 2026.
“present work of artistic and thematic significance to our community, in the hopes that students, teachers, and spectators alike will be moved by our work to feel deeply and think deeply.”
Under the leadership of Tom Lupfer—recipient of the 2025 New Jersey Governorʼs Award in Arts Education for Outstanding Teacher of Theatre—and Merielle
individuals and families in need.
The program provides a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community by donating new and gently used coats for men, women, children, and infants.
Neighbors, friends, and clients are invited to join in this effort to help ensure that no one goes cold this winter. “A simple coat or jacket from your closet can truly change someoneʼs life,” organizers said.
Donations of coats (only, please) may be delivered in plas-
For more information, contact sales associate Bonnie Borghi at (201) 666-0777.
Lupfer, the company has earned statewide acclaim. The Lupfers are also recipients of the Jo-Ann Fox Award for Outstanding
Theatre Teacher or Director and the Foxy Award for Best Direction of a Musical for Little Shop of Horrors in 2022.
Veterans:
S FROM PAGE 1
ciative of our veteransʼfocus on us and our community,” Sgroi said.
He emphasized that the core values instilled in veterans—service, leadership, protection, and volunteerism—are “demonstrated daily in their commitment to community.” Those traits, he said, reflect a constant pursuit of life, liberty, democracy, freedom, and equality—ideals that all citizens are called to “absorb, develop, and practice.”
In River Vale, the Waldwick Band performed at a Veterans Appreciation Concert on Saturday, Nov. 8, at the new bandstand behind the River Vale Library.
The program of American and patriotic music was organized by the River Vale Cultural Arts Committee under the direction of Amy Salib. The band was led by its longtime music director, Edmund A. Moderacki, a retired River Vale Schools teacher.
WEʼREADDING to our roundup! Send your reflections to editor@thepressgroup.net.
With thanks
Congregation Bʼnai Israel Emerson recently honored members Gary Schwinder and Ellen Michelson for their many decades of leadership, devotion, and volunteer service to the synagogue. The temple, which has long used a menorah as its symbol, presented the pair with two-of-a-kind menorahs representing light, wisdom, and hope—“a reflection of the light, inspiration, and guidance they have shared with the Congregation Bʼnai Israel community through their years of board service.”
Roche:
FROM PAGE 22
together at home in Park Ridge, where their father — a former Greenwich Village folk enthusiast encouraged them to perform.
By the late 1960s, Maggie and Terre were appearing in local hootenannies before Paul Simon invited them to sing on his 1973 album There Goes RhyminʼSimon
In 1979, the sistersʼWarner Bros. debut, The Roches, brought their three-part harmonies and gently subversive humor to a national audience.
They appeared on Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson , Late Night with David Letterman, and PBSʼs Soundstage, earning a loyal following and critical admiration.
Throughout the 1980s and ʼ90s, the trio released a string of albums — including Nurds (1980), Keep On Doing (1982), Another World (1985), Speak (1989), and We Three Kings (1990) — and contributed to projects by Philip Glass (Songs from Liquid Days, 1986) and to film soundtracks such as Crossing
Delancey (1988).
Their music, blending wit, warmth, and vocal precision, became emblematic of a thoughtful, literate corner of American folk-pop.
After their 2007 album Moonswept , the sisters retired from touring but continued to perform individually. Maggie Roche died in 2017; Terre and Suzzy remain active in music.
Terreʼs solo albums — The Sound of a Tree Falling (1998), Imprint (2015), and Inner Adult (2024) — reflect her enduring
craftsmanship and connection to the creative community she helped shape.
In Conversation with Terre Roche is airing on PKRG-TV Optimum Channel 77 (Park Ridge) and Verizon Fios Channel 22 (Bergen County) and will soon be available on PKRGTVʼs YouTube channel at y outube.com/PKRGTVOnDemand.
For PKRG-TVʼs current schedules, which offer a wealth of local news, views, and features, visit pkrgtv.com.
right candidate. Call (201) 664-3933.
studies have found that workers with high pesticide exposure face an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. That extra dollar for organic strawberries may not be so crazy after all.
Speaking of invisible risks, letʼs talk about radiation. Your cell phone and wireless devices expose you to radiofrequency energy.
Some research suggests that long-term, heavy use may increase oxidative stress in brain
tissue. So use speakerphone when you can, donʼt sleep with your phone next to your head, and if you wear wireless earbuds all day, maybe give your brain a breather. Convenience shouldnʼt come at the cost of cognition.
Of course, your daily habits matter just as much as what you avoid. Exercise — especially a mix of aerobic and strength training — boosts blood flow to the brain and helps grow new neurons. Sleep clears out brain toxins. Laughter lowers stress hormones. And real food — not the packaged, ultraprocessed, “fat-free” stuff — gives your brain the nutrients it needs to thrive. At Kaplan Brain & Body, we use qEEG brain mapping to assess how your brain is functioning and where stress patterns may be hiding. Normally $600, weʼre offering it for just $21 this month to mark Alzheimerʼs Awareness Month. Call or text 201-261-2150, visit KaplanDC.com, or email info@KaplanBrainAndBody.co m to schedule your appointment at our Emerson office.
And donʼt forget to tune in to my radio show, Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan, every Saturday at 8 a.m. on AM 970 and 2 p.m. on WOR 710 AM, where we explore natural, science-backed ways to keep your brain sharp, your mood high, and your memory strong. Advertisement
Terre Roche, ‘In Conversation,’ performs several songs for her hometown audience on KPRG-TV, which furnished this screenshot.
