Pascack Press 6.28.21

Get in on the fun

Planning is underway for the WestwoodFest, the borough’s end-of-summer celebration.

PAGE 12

WHENTHE LIGHTS

WENTOUT, BOROUGH STEPPED UP

Crews replace transformer that darkened downtown on cusp of July 4

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

It started with a bang and ended with a borough-wide mobilization to bring the lights back— and keep them on.

On the morning of Monday, July 14, PSE&G utility crews descended on Westwood Avenue, hauling in gear and workers for what Mayor Ray Arroyo called a major repair to the underground infrastructure that failed during a transformer explosion two weeks earlier

“Think of Westwood Avenue as the bottom of a U,” Arroyo

See LIGHTS on page 24

THEATRE HOLDS ITS ‘KIDS’ AGAIN THEATRE HOLDS ITS ‘KIDS’ AGAIN

Bittersweet

reunion before the curtain falls; when a first job defines a family

BYJOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

THEYRETURNED older and wiser, with careers and families — but were still kids, at heart, spilling over with love for each other and the place that helped raise them.

On Monday, July 14, an army of 28 former employees of what is now Township Theatre—most of them high-schoolers when they started—reunited at their first job to share laughs, tears, hugs, and a catered dinner and dessert — and one last picture show, starring themselves and so many others whoʼve made these years magical.

The group had worked at the local cinema—one of Bergen Countyʼs last independent holdouts—roughly 2000–2013, during the Clearview Cinemas era, and many hadnʼt seen each other in years, though a core group has maintained mini-reunions.

With the latest incarnation of the theatre announced to close, permanently, on July 31, the night was a chance to say goodbye not just to a building, but to a second

Continued on page 10

OF FORMER EMPLOYEES ofthe Township of Washington’s Clearview Cinemas reunite July 14,ahead of the site’s closure on July 31.

Pictured generally from the top of the stairs to the lobby are Sara Basile, Sheryl Sedlack Tramontano,Peter Monton,Anthony Del Nobile,Hailee Gregory, Kara Kaplan Siegel, Laura Largi,Sandy Sedlack,Mike Pisciotta, Amanda Largi,Artie Foose,Fallon Roller,Melissa Tashiro,Brad Rosenberg, Justin Civitarese, Kevin Murphy,Noelle Siniscalchi,Samantha Cole Patrick, Brendan Nagel,James Cush,Dan Hyland,John Monton,Bilal Gilal,Lauren Wilson, Zach Rose,Billy Flynn,Dana Mag,and Andrew Chiriff. Photo courtesy John Monton.

SERIES LAUNCHES

The borough’s new Woodcliff Park is the venue for Woodcliff Wednesdays, a summer series of live performances and community events organized by the Woodcliff Lake Parks and Recreation Committee.

PAGE 7

HARDHATS AND CHANGE ORDERS

Late 2025 opening eyed as public safety complex advances

BYMICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

By mid-summer, contractors working with Dobco, Inc. were scheduled to be installing curbs, light pole bases, and underground electrical conduits around the townshipʼs new Public Safety Complex, according to a construction management official overseeing the project.

Based on recent estimates, local officials now anticipate a late fall 2025 opening. At the July 14 council meeting, the mayor and council received a project update from Epic Management project manager David Warren.

In mid-May, Warren had reported the complex was 75% complete, according to meeting minutes. Efforts to contact Mayor Mark Bromberg and Council President Paul Criscuolo for comment on the project were not immediately returned.

Dobco, Inc. of Wayne was awarded the project in November 2023 with a low bid of $14,778,500.

In his July 14 update, Warren listed 21 construction activities

See COMPLEX on page 11

In summer 1952, Park Ridge Taxi drivers likely were brushing sand from their seats after every run. The company was offering a special promotion: $1 would get your group a ride to Laurel Lake or Pascack Pool.

PAGE 4

RIVER VALE

YEARS

Municipal leaders in Park Ridge and the Township of Washington are taking a closer look at how their communities issue emergency warnings—whether through sirens, text alerts, or hightech detection systems.

As extreme weather events

grow more frequent and public safety expectations evolve, both towns are weighing how best to notify residents and protect those using local parks, fields, and public spaces.

Park Ridge rethinks role of fire sirens

Park Ridge officials said they are reviewing the uses of the warning sirens in town, after hearing complaints from residents about the siren's high-decibel noise and its outdated technology. However, one resident asked officials that the sirens be kept in service and possibly reserved for “serious dangers only.” Currently, the town siren alerts local volunteer firefighters to a fire emergency.

At the July 8 meeting of the

governing body, resident Lori Fredrics suggested the sirens might be reserved as an alert system for major emergencies such as possible severe weather events such as hurricanes, flooding and ice storms. She noted the severe flooding

She noted that the council was approving new pagers for the Fire Department and questioned what the specific uses were for the local sirens, noting residents might get “acclimated” to the sirens and not realize what they mean.

She said when she was younger, a siren was used to indicate a snow day off from school, as there was no texting at that time.

Borough Clerk Maggie Giandeomico said that based on public concerns, the fire chief and township attorney were trying to determine whether state law required use of a siren for the fire department or other local emergencies.

She said some residents had inquired about the placement of local sirens. Giandomenco said the new fire chief “was very

active” in putting out alerts via the Rave alert notification system, including recent ones on road paving and a water main break. She said residents can sign up for the text messaging alert system.

The borough also has a lightning detection system that includes sirens to warn athletes and visitors of nearby lightning.

Mayor Keith Misciagna said the council had been discussing the use and necessity of sirens recently and he noted that residents living close to them were most affected.

He agreed it would be useful to keep them for certain purposes, such as a possible tornado warning. “Who thought New Jersey would be having tornadoes but we do now,” said the mayor.

— Staff writer Michael Olohan

Major upgrade on lightning warning system

In the crackling Township of Washington, officials are moving ahead with a major upgrade to the townʼs lightning detection system, which is used to monitor conditions at local parks and athletic

fields.

Mayor Peter Calamari said on July 11 that the townshipʼs existing systems are nearing the end of their useful life, and replacement parts may soon become difficult to obtain. Fortunately, he said, the vendor is offering an upgrade at the New Jersey State Contract rate, with labor provided at no additional cost.

“Given the critical role these systems play in ensuring the safety of individuals using our parks and fields, I have decided to proceed with the upgrade at this time,” Calamari said.

The work is expected to take approximately one month. No service disruption is anticipated, but any interruptions will be communicated to the public promptly, he said.

The townshipʼs new system—WXLineʼs Strike Guard Lightning Warning System— includes:

• Detection of lightning up to 20 miles away

• User-selectable Caution,

Test results, remediation costs in progress at town sites

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Residents and local officials continue to await testing results on the distance and depth of contamination at the 6.1-acre former Township of Washington Swim Club property and the recently acquired 3.2-acre parcel at 450 Pascack Road, Township Administrator Mark DiCarlo said at the July 14 council meeting.

He also reported that an emergency plan and permit application for stream restoration around two sanitary manholes on Musquapsink Brook had to be resubmitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and is under review. The NJDEP has 90 days to approve, deny, or request additional information.

The contamination at the former swim club was first discovered last October, during a Boswell Engineering pre-demolition survey, which identified asbestos, leadbased paint, and high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

DiCarlo said the NJDEP is reviewing a grant application for site investigation, testing, and remediation at the swim club. If approved, the grant could cover 100% of site testing costs and up to 75% of remediation costs.

Mayor Peter Calamari previously issued an Oct. 16 online press release notifying residents that high PCB levels had been reported to the NJDEP. Following that disclosure, the Township Council hired Boswell Engineering under a $78,000 contract to conduct further testing at the site.

The townshipʼs insurance carrier, the Bergen County Joint Insurance Fund (JIF), is investigat-

ing whether Lisko Environmental failed to identify the contamination during its Phase I and Phase II environmental assessments prior to the townshipʼs April 2022 purchase of the property. Bergen JIF is awaiting Boswellʼs final reports, investigation, and remediation cost estimates before making a determination.

450 Pascack Road: Soil Lead, Escrow Funded by Seller DiCarlo also disclosed that lead soil contamination had been found at 450 Pascack Road, a fact he said officials were aware of before the township closed on the property in late April.

He noted that a $250,000 escrow agreement, funded by the property seller, was established to cover additional site testing and remediation costs prior to demolition. That escrow arrangement, DiCarlo said, ensures that taxpayers will not be liable for cleanup costs at the property.

Although DiCarlo mentioned the escrow account during a midJune tour of the site, the agreement was not included in the Purchase Agreement provided to Pascack Press. The April 23 agree-

m ent was signed by property owner Robert Morris, Mayor Calamari, and township attorney Siobhan Spillane Bailey, who also manages the escrow account.

During the site tour, DiCarlo told Pascack Press that a Phase II study by Lisko Environmental, based in Belmar, “found that there was some lead in the soil and that most likely itʼs going to amount to nothing.”

He emphasized that testing is underway to determine the extent and depth of possible lead contamination and that it will be paid for using escrow funds.

“The best news is the township is not fiscally responsible for that [cleanup]—a hefty escrow was established where the seller is responsible for any additional testing or remediation,” DiCarlo said. “Nothing was located that would prevent us from purchasing the home or the property,” he added.

NJDEP Reviewing Stream Plan; Broader Contamination Concerns Persist

DiCarlo also reiterated that NJDEP is reviewing the resubmittal of Boswellʼs stream restoration

plan and permit application. No specific reason was given for the revision, and no deadline was disclosed.

Following the discovery of contamination at the former swim club, councilors raised concerns about environmental conditions at 450 Pascack Road—especially after an initial investigation suggested the historical use of pesti-

cides, and the potential presence of asbestos and lead-based paint, given the age and condition of the house and other structures on-site.

Pascack Press has requested information on when testing results and remediation cost estimates for both properties will be available. Officials had not responded by press time.

Bckintime... Bckintime...

She stands for Joan, forever

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

A sunny Saturday, July 12, Rosemarie DʼAlessandro stood before a statue of the Blessed Mother on the grounds of St. John the Baptist Church, surrounded by flowers, family, and friends. With her sons, Michael and John, and others who gathered in quiet remembrance, she marked the 50th anniversary of the Grotto created in memory of her daughter, Joan Angela DʼAlessandro.

Joan, a 7-year-old Girl Scout from Hillsdale, was tragically assaulted and murdered in 1973 after delivering cookies to a neighborʼs home. The crime shocked the community and changed Rosemarieʼs life. In the months that followed, sympathy cards and donations poured in—gestures of love and grief from neighbors and strangers alike.

Rosemarie used those donations to create something lasting: a grotto, featuring a statue of the Blessed Mother and a plaque in Joanʼs memory. It was unveiled in 1975, and for five decades it has offered a place of reflection, prayer, and healing.

The idea came from Rosemarieʼs grandmother—her beloved Nonna—a deeply religious woman who owned a miniature replica of the Lourdes statue in France, a site known for mira-

See GROTTO page 13

“Hey folks! Look over here!” A lively day at Pascack Pool in

A Dollar Ride to Summer: Laurel Lake and Pascack Pool

NSUMMER 1952, Park Ridge Taxi drivers likely were brushing sand from their seats after every run. The company was offering a special promotion: $1 would get your group a ride to either Laurel Lake or the Pascack Pool.

“Mothers, get together with a neighbor and send all the children for a cool swim on hot days,” the company urged in an ad in the Westwood Chronicle

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

Located in Montvale and Hillsdale, respectively, Laurel Lake and the Pascack Pool were popular local swimming spots. Their sandy shores and cool waters offered a beachlike retreat right here in the Pascack Valley. Though both are gone today, many locals still remember them fondly. Each had its own distinct character. Letʼs take a closer look at these two summertime landmarks— one nestled in the meadows of Montvale, the other humming with activity in the heart of Hillsdale.

LAUREL LAKE

Murrayʼs Laurel Lake was a 22-acre recreation spot that stretched back from the southwest corner of Summit Avenue and Spring Valley Road in Montvale—behind whatʼs now Montvale Market. Opened in the 1930s, it welcomed multiple generations for nearly 50 years before being replaced by an office complex in the 1980s.

The land had been part of the Murray family farm since 1897, when Montvale had just 400 residents. In the 1930s, John Murray expanded a shallow pond in a meadow on his property—a watering hole for his cows—so

his grandchildren could swim.

Neighbors soon joined in. On hot summer days, visitors would offer Murray 25 cents for a swim, and during the lean years of the Great Depression, he accepted. By the 1940s, the lake was bringing in more money than the farm.

At its peak in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Laurel Lake had 1,500 member families. The swim club featured a beach, wooded

MAYORURGES ‘FAIR, CLEAR’ DREDGEREFERENDUMQUESTION

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PARKRIDGE

This time around, local officials say they want to make the upcoming referendum question on dredging Mill Pond straightforward, understandable and let the taxpayers know what they are getting for their tax dollars.

Thatʼs the message coming from the mayor, local officials and professionals as they develop a referendum question on dredging Mill Pond that they hope to put forth before voters on the Nov. 4 ballot.

In an interview with Pascack Press, Misciagna said that the mayorʼs committee met on July 15 to discuss the referendum wording and possible amount and planned to meet again soon. He said he hoped to meet with the citizens committee he appointed this week or next to get input.

Local officials said they planned to present a referendum question on dredging Mill Pond that spells out the average cost to taxpayers, how long they plan to bond, and the specific improvements that the bond issue will pay for to upgrade the pond.

A final referendum question and interpretive statement must be submitted to the county by Aug. 8 for a referendum to make it on the Nov. 4 ballot, said Borough Clerk Maggie Giandomenico. Officials likely will call a special meeting to vote on a final referendum question.

The question is also nonbinding, Misciagna noted, which means that whatever the final vote is, the council still makes the final decision on whether to appropriate funds or approve bonds to make pond upgrades.

Misciagna told us, “Itʼs a quality of life thing and a safety issue. Thereʼs no plan right now; this would benefit the entire community.” He said should residents approve a non-binding referendum, the council would likely commit tax dollars to upgrade the pond by dredging it and maintaining it.

He told us he hopes residents are interested in directly investing in improving the pond and making it a centerpiece of the town. “If it

was beautiful, people would be frequenting that part of town,” said the mayor. He noted the pondʼs rich history.

He said if the pond referendum is approved, residents will get to see a direct connection between tax dollars spent and the improvement of a local resource, which can be used and maintained for generations to come. The pond has become overfilled with sediment and polluted due to “the can being kicked down the road too many times,” Misciagna said.

The referendum vote will let local officials know whether residents are for or against spending funds to improve the pond, part of Park Ridgeʼs history and the townʼs claim to fame as one of the first towns with electricity generated from hydro-electric power, via the Mill Pond turbines.

The pond, also known as Electric Lake, suffers from severe

sedimentation, pollution by oil residues, lack of stormwater capacity, and low oxygen levels restricting the type of fish that can survive there, said the boroughʼs engineer.

Officials have said that they hope to dredge the pond, improve water quality, improve storage capacity, possibly add aeration, and likely turn the area into a local attraction where residents again fish and stroll around the pathway surrounding the pond.

In late 2023, a non-binding bond referendum was defeated by voters, although much confusion about the referendumʼs cost allegedly played a part in its defeat, officials have said.

Misciagna said when he talked to residents in fall 2023 during campaign season, he found most favored the non-binding

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Mayor illuminates on surprise solar offer mailing

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

WESTWOOD

A letter sent recently to borough residents—bearing the mayorʼs name and borough seal, and appearing to offer guaranteed energy bill savings—prompted a wave of confusion online, with some recipients tossing the letter unopened, believing it to be a scam. Others said the envelope was addressed to relatives who had never lived at their home, raising red flags.

The offer, fortunately, is real: It promotes a project under the New Jersey Community Solar Energy Program (CSEP), a state-run initiative that allows ratepayers—whether they rent or own—to subscribe to electricity produced by commercial

solar installations. By enrolling, residents receive discounted “solar credits” on their monthly utility bill without needing to install rooftop panels. Anyone receiving an energy bill—be they renter or homeowner—is eligible to sign up.

But the presentation of the letter, printed and mailed by Solar Landscape, a CSEP-approved developer, struck many residents as misleading. The envelope bore the mayorʼs name, and the letter was

formatted to appear on borough letterhead—despite being, by the boroughʼs own account, a privately produced communication, and not an endorsement.

“I ripped it up and tossed [it] after reading it because it seemed like a scam,” one resident posted on a private citizenʼs Facebook page, which sought clarification from

Mayor Ray Arroyo and Counciwoman Erin Collins, echoing a sentiment shared by many. “Absolutely should have informed the public,” said another. “It would have been prudent to have had presentations to the public announced.”

In lighter contrast, one resident shared, “And Pollyanna me saw it as totally legit and ready to sign up!”

Arroyo acknowledged the confusion in a July 8 post on his “From the Mayorʼs Desk” section of the borough website, where he wrote that a disclaimer clarifying the letterʼs informational purpose was overlooked.

He added that while other municipalities chose to automatically enroll residents in community solar projects—a provision allowed under the CSEP framework — Westwoodʼs governing body “agreed that we would not presume to make that decision for you.”

Instead, officials decided to present the program publicly and allow residents to opt in. A representative from Solar Landscape presented on the offer during the councilʼs May 6 public work session. Moreover, the initiative appeared as a discussion item in the published agenda — and Pascack Press noted the topic in its council meeting advance story of May 2, Arroyo noted.

(Editorʼs note:You can check on news, views, and features of interest to the Pascack Valley at PascackPress.com. Itʼs free!)

Still, because the letter arrived without forewarning—and without any reference to that earlier discussion—many residents were blindsided.

Arroyo said “the merits of the program were considered by various council members in relation to

ARROYO COLLINS

An absolutely legitimate offer for Westwood residents. Courtesy photo.

‘Woodcliff Wednesdays’ bring music, movies, more

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

Councilmembers Julie Brodsky and Chris Bonanno, along with Recreation Director Ryan Magee, kicked off the series July 9 with a performance by Rockskafari, a reggae, rock and blues band. Following resident feedback, the remaining Wednesday events on hand will begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted:

• Wednesday, July 23 at 7 p.m.— Gerard and Diane Barros, music from the ʼ60s, ʼ70s, ʼ80s and beyond

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

• Wednesday, July Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. — Broadway Cabaret

Night, featuring local Broadway talent

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

Special Friday Night Show

• Friday, Aug. 15 from 5:308:30 p.m. — Frank and Beans, soul and rock cover band, sponsored by The Shaps Group

Seniors soon to Connecticut River Valley

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

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

The series is on track to help build momentum and community spirit at the new 2.1-acre park, which officially opened May 3 at Werimus Road and Woodcliff Avenue, following more than a decade of planning and development.

The park features a walking track, gazebo, bandshell, restrooms, benches, open lawn, and a veterans memorial. It was built on

Alerts:

FROM PAGE 2

Warning, and Alarm zones

• Audible and visual alarms with a no-false-alarm track record

• Automatic “All Clear” notifications

the former Galaxy Gardens site with the help of county open space grants and community donations.

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

• Lightning-proof components with high-capacity battery backup

• No cleaning or calibration required

• Optional alert software for email, text, or pager notifications

• Warranty protection

The upgraded system is being installed across the Township of Washingtonʼs recreation, parks, and sports facilities. A “Coming Soon” notice has already been posted. — Staff writer John Snyder

Mistick Village, Mystic Seaport Museum, the Connecticut River Museum, and the Florence Griswold Museum. Highlights include a 2.5-hour narrated steam train and riverboat tour through the picturesque Connecticut countryside.

Rates per person are $534 for triple occupancy, $549 double, and $718 single. Cancellation insurance is available and strongly recommended.

For more information or to reserve, contact Rosemarie Kelly at Montvale Seniors, 56 Erie Ave., Montvale, NJ 07645, or call (201) 391-8718.

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

FROM PAGE 4

picnic grounds, a dance pavilion, refreshment stand, bath houses, lifeguard shack, and first aid station.

In its final summer, 1982, the club had about 600 season members—each paying $150. On Labor Day, Sept. 6, 1982, the lake closed for good. The site was soon redeveloped into an office park.

PASCACK POOL

Closer to the center of the Pascack Valley, warm-weather days

The original sign from Laurel Lake, now preserved in the Pascack Historical Society collection.

often meant lazy afternoons at the Pascack Pool, located at Piermont Avenue and Cedar Lane in Hillsdale.

The pool was a large, manmade lake with a sand bottom and beach surroundings. It featured diving boards, a refreshment stand, a playground, basketball and baseball courts, a jukebox, and acres of picnic grounds. In 1933, a season membership cost just $5.

By 1939, the beach was enlarged to accommodate up to 4,000 people. During World War II, the Pascack Pool became a popular destination for soldiers from nearby military camps, looking to unwind before deployment.

Valli & The Four Seasons even played there.

Amenities expanded to include a 50-meter Olympic-size pool—then rare in the area—along with two childrenʼs pools, 350+ cabanas, picnic tables, and rows of colorful chaises and umbrellas.

In 1976, Hillsdale purchased

the 20-acre property for $735,000. Today, only 12 acres remain in borough hands. The western section was sold for development, becoming Stonybrook Manor condominiums. The northern portion, once Pascack Pool, was converted into a soccer field.

In 1959, businessman Caesar DeFlora purchased the property with big plans. After that first swim season, he began transforming it into the Stonybrook Field Club. By 1962, the revamped site featured a sleek two-story clubhouse with a restaurant, cocktail lounge, and regular live entertainment. Frankie

An aerial view of Pascack Pool at Piermont and Cedar Lane in Hillsdale, late 1940s. Today, this section is a soccer field.

A mid-century snapshot at Murray’s Laurel Lake, a beloved Montvale swim spot for nearly 50 years

Council approves bid specs, advertising for DPW HQ

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The Township Council on July 14 approved going out to bid

WESTWOOD

for a new Department of Public Works facility, with bid specifications expected to be advertised and available in late July. Bids are scheduled to be opened Thursday, Sept. 4 at Town Hall.

The resolution passed 4–0; Councilman Michael Ullman was absent. No public or council comments were made on the longanticipated bid.

Learn, practice sign language

Interested in learning American Sign Language or looking to keep your skills sharp? The Westwood Public Library invites you to join its weekly ASL Practice Group, meeting every Tuesday in July from 11 a.m. to noon.

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

WESTWOOD

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

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

‘BE RED CROSS READY’ EVENT JULY 23

The Borough of Westwoodʼs Office of Emergency Management invites residents to attend “Be Red Cross Ready,” an emergency preparedness presentation by the American Red Cross, on Wednesday, July 23, at 7 p.m. in the Borough Hall Council Chambers, 101 Washington Ave.

The event will focus on flood preparedness, response, and recovery—though much of the information applies to a wide range of emergencies.

Red Cross representatives will share practical tips and techniques

to help residents protect their homes, families, and communities during crises. Even experienced flood survivors are likely to pick up new tools to improve their emergency readiness.

Following the presentation, Mayor Ray Arroyo will provide an update on Westwoodʼs flood mitigation initiatives. A Q&A session with borough officials will follow.

The event is free and open to all residents. For more information, call Karen Hughes, assistant borough administrator, at 201664-7100.

WEEKEND MASS SCHEDULE

Local DPW workers have been without a permanent home base for nearly four years. Officials said the new facility is unlikely to be completed before late 2026 or 2027, depending on whether bids received are qualified and acceptable.

In February, the council approved a $3 million bond to finance the new facility, which will be built on the footprint of the

former DPW building. That building was demolished in 2021 due to longstanding soil contamination. For years, workers have operated under a large tent at the former DPW site, exposed to all weather conditions. Larger vehicles and seasonal equipment are stored in a parking lot at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church under a

two-year, $64,000 lease approved in December 2023. Councilmen Steven Cascio and Ullman initially voted against the bond ordinance, which was projected to cost the average homeowner about $47 annually over a 30-year term. Cascio later changed his vote to yes; Ullman remained opposed.

DAILY MASS

Theatre:

S FROM PAGE 1 home.

Organized by veteran employees John Monton and Sheryl Tramontano, alerted by Montonʼs mom — the news we broke in these pages only June 23 (“Township Theatre says itʼs forced to close,” page 1) — the event orbited a 48-minute video montage projected on the big screen, Theater 2. The video was introduced, naturally, by the Clearview Cinemas winkingusher animation — We Bring

Neighbors to the Movies and the former 95.5 WPLJʼs “Scott & Todd, The Morning Guys,” playfully urging Clearview audiences not to be “that guy” who disrupts the movie experience. Stills and camcorder-recorded home movie clips showed popcorn flying. Staff daring each other to drink condiments. Huge smiles. Plumbing mishaps. Costumes. Seasons. Styles. Dancing. Tomfoolery before, during, and well after feature presentations. All lovingly edited together on a period-perfect soundtrack.

This was a shared musical album of the blockbuster years of this special audienceʼs lives, made all the more poignant, perhaps, by

whatʼs not on any frame: any sign of the volatile early 2000s, which these kids, their families, and many of us felt unfold in real time.

Opened to fanfare in 1966

The theatre first opened its doors in 1966 as Washington Cinema — the mall built in 1959, then renovated in 1997 — boasting Continental influences and conveying panache, welcoming the first of generations of local moviegoers. The building itself holds memories: first dates, childrenʼs first big-screen experience, Day and night traditions, fun at a mall that was being remade before patronsʼeyes, with the final credits seemingly never to run.

It changed hands as Clearview Cinemas (owned by Comcast; the employees got free internet and cable); Bow-Tie Cinemas, Washington Township Cinema, and Township Theatre.

The current owners, David and Laura Rose, reopened the theater in a flurry of optimism in 2021 after the Covid-19 pandemic shutdowns left it dark. They invested not only in updated seating and concessions, but also in programming that brought people together—live comedy, musicals, family films, and even dementiafriendly screenings.

The Roses announced in June that despite their best efforts they could not reach a new lease agreement with the mallʼs management,

GRE Vertical Advisors LLC, confirming the theater would shutter on July 31.

The firm touts the suitability of fitness, entertainment, or medical tenants at the site, next to restaurants and Dairy Queen, in the heart of the township, on Pascack Road across from the municipal center.

“The love and enthusiasm shown by our patrons have meant everything to us,” the Roses said in a message told us. “While we are heartbroken to close this chapter, we will always cherish the memories we created together.”

They were not present at the reunion, though they did throw

Top (2008) and bottom (2025): Sheryl Tramontano, Dan Hyland, John Monton, and Amanda Fazio pose in the same row of Township Theatre’s second screening room. The staff worked together during the Clearview Cinemas era, from 2001 to 2013. Photos courtesy John Monton.

Veterans Park upgrade: costs sink

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

RIVERVALE

Councilors approved a change order July 14 that decreased the cost of improvements to Veterans Memorial Park by more than $9,000 — reducing the cost of renovation to $246,405 from an original $255,800 bid.

Changes made by the township engineer reduced costs by $9,395, said the resolution. The contract for park improvements was awarded to Balitano Contracting Co. Inc. Ridgefield, on Nov. 11, 2024. The vote was 4-0, with councilor Ari Ben-Yishay absent.

The park is closed as it undergoes renovations.

Due to a recent state Local Finance Notice from the state treasurer, effective July 1, Council also passed a resolution that increased the bid threshold for its

Complex:

FROM PAGE 1

taking place between June 30 and July 18. He has been providing weekly updates to the council on the $15 million project.

Epic Management, based in Piscataway, was hired in late July 2022 under a $378,000 contract to provide construction management services. At the time, Township Administrator Gennaro Rotella estimated construction would take 18 to 20 months.

Current construction activities include:

•Continued installation of fiberglass column covers

•Taping, spackling, and painting on the first floor and approved areas of the basement

•Termination of conductors in the main and first-floor electrical rooms

•Lighting installation

•Installation of communications conduits for phone and cable

qualified purchasing agent up to $53,000 from a prior $44,000 limit. Moreover, based on new state guidance, it increased the quote threshold to $7,950 from a prior $6,600 limit.

Resolution on Big E stern plate donation tabled

Councilors also tabled a resolution (2025-169) to donate the USS Enterprise stern plate, a centerpiece of Veterans Memorial Park, to the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command.

Efforts to find out why the resolution was tabled were not immediately returned. Previously, Administrator Gennaro Rotella told Pascack Press that plans were being discussed to transfer the stern plate to the U.S. Navy in time for the 250th Anniversary celebration, and then for permanent exhibition.

The resolution notes that the USS Enterprise “earned the dis-

•Ductwork and accessory installation

•HVAC pipe insulation

•Installation of cap sheet at flat roofing (base sheet was not inspected as required by the manufacturer; cap sheet installed at contractorʼs risk)

•Resumption of drywall and ductwork installation per approved change orders

•Irrigation line and foundation waterproofing per approved change orders

•Electrical installation at the sump pit

•Field measurement for main entrance storefront glass

•Resumption of exterior site work — including curbs, light pole bases, and underground conduits

As of early July, the council has approved 14 change orders on the project, the latest totaling $34,994.19. This reduces the original $750,000 contingency fund (included in the bid) to $522,533.56.

Officials emphasized that all change orders are paid from con-

tinction of being the most decorated naval ship of World War II as well as receiving a Presidential Unit Citation and Navy Unit Commendation.”

The stern plate was acquired by resident W. Henry Hoffman, who saved it and other Enterprise artifacts as the ship was being scrapped.

The resolution notes that the Department of Navy Naval History and Heritage Command “has expressed an interest in acquiring the stern plate ...of the USS Enterprise for its collection, recognizing its historical value.”

tingency funds and do not increase the projectʼs cost to taxpayers.

The latest change order includes:

•Gun locker cutout ($555)

•Furring of concrete jail walls ($3,365)

•Added sprinkler line and backflow preventer ($10,950.72)

•Added wet wall panels ($10,231.47)

•Sloped ductwork ($9,892)

Separately, on Feb. 24, the council approved a $170,373.48 contract for a camera and door access system to enhance security at the new police complex.

As reported in September 2024, the project had generated eight change orders totaling approximately $72,000 — then nearly 10% of the contingency fund. Officials have maintained that the overall project cost will remain unchanged unless the fund is exceeded.

Rotella told Pascack Press that more change orders are likely as construction enters its final stages, when revisions and unanticipated costs typically occur

GRACE’S 8TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY IN JULY TOY DRIVE

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

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

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

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

Hospital at Hackensack.

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

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

CV-6 Stern Plate

F IELDHOCKEY REGISTRATION EXTENDEDIN W ESTWOOD

Thereʼs still time for local girls to join the field this fall.

The Westwood Recreation Department has extended registration for its Girls Field Hockey program to Aug. 1. Open to players entering grades 4–8 this September, the program welcomes beginners and returning athletes alike.

While Westwood and Washington Township residents receive priority, the program is open to participants from neighboring towns as well.

For girls entering grades 4 and 5, the program offers a Sunday clinic series that introduces the basics of field hockey—stickhandling, dribbling, passing, and shooting—along with opportunities for scrimmage play. The cost is $50 for Westwood residents and $75 for non-residents. Clinic dates and times are to be announced.

The travel team is open to girls entering grades 6–8. No prior

experience is required. One team will be formed for the 2025 season, with practices beginning in late August and games starting after Labor Day in the Northern New Jersey Field Hockey League. The fee is $175 for Westwood residents and $200 for non-residents. Registration is available online at register.communitypass.net/westwood. Participants should select Summer 2025 from the program menu.

For questions about the program, families can email CardinalsFH@yahoo.com.

The Westwood Recreation Department shares updates on upcoming programs through seasonal guides, email alerts, and social media. A full list of offerings is available at westwoodnj.gov/recreation. Fall program registration begins in September.

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

WESTWOOD

WESTWOODFESTRETURNS SEPT. 13 — GETINONITNOW

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

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

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

WESTWOOD

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

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

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

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

4th Brookside Bazaar taking shape

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

Established as a local favorite and a festive kickoff to the holiday shopping season, the Brookside Bazaar welcomes artists, crafters, retailers, creatives, and entrepreneurs from across Bergen County and beyond. The event has drawn more than 30 unique vendors and over 400 shoppers annually, supporting both small businesses and the Brookside Ele-

mentary School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO).

Proceeds from the event benefit Brooksideʼs PTO, helping fund student activities, educational enrichments, and classroom equipment.

An early bird registration rate of $95 per table is available through Sept. 5. Vendor registration will close on Oct. 3.

Follow @BrooksideBazaar on Facebook and Instagram for updates, vendor highlights, and sponsorship opportunities.

Grotto:

FROM PAGE 4

cles. Inspired by her grandmotherʼs faith and moved by her own loss,

Rosemarie told Pascack Press she envisioned the Grotto not only as a tribute to Joan, but as a sanctuary for others navigating grief.

“Itʼs always been a place where anyone can come, admire the flowers, say a prayer, or just sit in silence,” Rosemarie said.

But the Grotto was only the beginning.

A life of advocacy in Joanʼs name

In the decades that followed, Rosemarie transformed personal tragedy into public action.

She founded the Joan Angela DʼAlessandro Memorial Foundation, also known as Joanʼs Joy, which promotes child protection, victim advocacy, and support for underserved youth. The foundation has hosted educational events, community safety festivals, and youth enrichment programs—all in Joanʼs name.

Rosemarie also became a determined legislative advocate. Her work contributed to the passage of Joanʼs Law in 1997, which mandates life without parole for anyone who murders a child during a sexual assault. In 2025, she supported a federal expansion of

that law—The Paula Bohovesky & Joan DʼAlessandro Act—which would extend protections to all minors under 18.

The foundationʼs work continues today, offering opportunities and comfort to children who

might otherwise be forgotten— just as the Grotto offers comfort to adults still grieving what should never have happened.

A place that still welcomes all The DʼAlessandro family

welcomes visitors to stop by the Grotto at any time—to see the flowers, offer a prayer, or reflect. Donations to help with the contin-

ued planting and upkeep of the space can be made through joansjoy.org.

From left to right at Hillsdale’s St. John the Baptist Church: Mary Chongoushian, Rosemarie D’Alessandro, Michael D’Alessandro, John D’Alessandro, and Harmon Schulman. Courtesy photo.

Rayner exhibits ‘Simple Things in Life’ this August

The Demarest Public Library will feature the photography of Mitzi Michelle Williams Rayner throughout August in an exhibition, Simple Things in Life

Raynerʼs work celebrates the beauty found in everyday moments— nature, landscapes, and architectural details that highlight “Godʼs handiwork and creativity,” as the artist describes it.

The collection includes customframed and matted photographs, available in various sizes, along with handmade greeting cards and calendars.

“Take a glance at the photographerʼs photos and itʼs like looking through the

lens of everyday life,” she writes in her artist statement.

Rayner first explored photography in the early 1990s through a class that introduced her to developing film, night photography, and black-andwhite imaging. Though she still appreciates the rich detail of film, she embraces the modern convenience of digital photography.

Simple Things in Life was established in 2007, and since 2017 Rayner has exhibited in libraries across the TriState Area. During the pandemic, she participated in virtual exhibits at two Bergen County libraries.

Rayner holds a B.A. in home eco-

nomics/family and child studies from Montclair State University and an M.S. in education from Cairn University. She is an educator and serves as the Center Director for the New City Kids After School Center in Paterson.

To learn more or view her work, visit her gallery at https://simplethingsinlifephotography.my.canva.s ite/simple-things-in-life-photography#portfolio. Purchasing inquiries: Email mitzimichellew@gmail.com

The Demarest Public Library is at 90 Hardenburg Ave. Admission is free. For hours or additional information, call (201) 768-8714 or visit demarestlibrary.org.

At the Grand Canyon. The Demarest Public Library features the photography of Mitzi Michelle Williams

throughout August in an exhibition, Simple Things in Life

Rayner

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

‘The Sky Inside Your Body’ watercolors at HFPL

Throughout July, the Hillsdale Free Public Library (HFPL), at 509 Hillsdale Avenue, will feature The Sky Inside Your Body, a collection of watercolor paintings by Christina Turczyn. The exhibit, on display in the libraryʼs Meeting Room gallery, includes landscapes and florals that explore the interplay of movement, nature,

and emotion.

“In my work, I like to capture the moment — wings of surf lifting off the sea, or rain on the skin, a Braille of sorts, to be read after storms,” Turczyn says. “Some viewers have referred to my work as ethereal, and I like to think of the images as moving beyond themselves — a line between

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water and sky.”

Turczyn is both a visual artist and a writer. She has studied watercolor with Joel Popadics and Betsy Jacaruso and has exhibited her work widely. As a writer, she has more than 100 publications in literary and scholarly journals. Her most recent poetry collection, The Sky Inside Your Body, shares its name with the current exhibit.

T he public is invited to meet the artist at a reception on Saturday, July 19, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the library.

“Weʼre pleased to share Christinaʼs talent with the community,” says Library Director Dave Franz. “Visitors are welcome to attend the reception and enjoy her exhibit throughout the month.”

For more information about the Hillsdale Free Public Library and its varied community programs and offerings, visit www.hfpl.org.

Troop 350 taking orders on lawn flags

Westwood Scout Troop 350 invites the community to take part in its 2025 “Stars and Stripes” fundraiser, a program that allows residents to proudly display the American flag throughout the year in honor of national holidays. Troop 350 will place a 12” x 18”

WESTWOOD

poly-cotton American stick flag curbside in participating front yards on patriotic holidays: Labor Day – Monday, Sept. 1; Patriot Day – Thursday, Sept. 11; and Veterans Day – Tuesday, Nov. 11.

The cost is $25 per year for one flag per holiday or $50 per

year for two flags per holiday. This offer is available only to r esidents of Westwood and Washington Township. E mail Westw oodTroop350@gmail.com with name, address, and phone number. Venmo, PayPal, checks.

Knights invite you to get your luau on

The St. Thomas More Knights of Columbus and Valley Charities Inc. host a Luau-themed Friday Night Dinner on Friday, July 25, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 40 Crest St. Doors open at 6 p.m. The menu features smoked St. Louis ribs, hot dogs, assorted salads, watermelon, pineapple and fruit salad, coffee/tea, and dessert. The cost is $20 per person, $35 per couple (age 65 and older), and $15 for children 12 and under. Make checks payable to Valley Charities. Hawaiian attire is suggested. Proceeds benefit the Knightsʼscholarship program.

To RSVP, call PGK Frank Mariconti Sr. at 551-579-1123 between 4 and 8 p.m. RSVP on or before Tuesday, July 22.

TURCZYN

Aloha Hawaii (Moon) by Kerne Erickson

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

BERGEN

COUNTY

RETURNOF SUMMER MOVIES, CONCERTSINTHE PARK

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

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

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

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

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

Movie Schedule

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

Pascack Brook County Park –150 Emerson Road, Westwood

The Last Dance (PG-13) Wednesday, July 23 – The Fall Guy (PG-13)

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

Van Saun County Park – 216 Forest Ave., Paramus

• Friday, July 18 – Transformers One (PG)

• Friday, July 25 – Moana 2 (PG)

• Friday, Aug. 1 – Inside Out 2 (PG)

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

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

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

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

• Wednesday, Aug. 20 – Wicked (PG-13)

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

Concert Schedule

All concerts begin at 7 p.m.

The Amphitheater at Overpeck County Park – 199 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park

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

• Thursday, July 31 – ARENA

Relive the Rock (ʼ80s Rock Classics)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEIZE THE MOMENT TO EDUCATE ON MONEY SMARTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

exercise can help ingrain the habit of saving regularly.

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

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

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

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

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

Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice. Be sure to consult with your tax and legal advisors before taking any action that could have tax consequences. Any estate plan should be reviewed by an attorney who specializes in estate planning and is licensed to practice law in your state.

This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director–Investments in Park Ridge at (201) 5050472.

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

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

...frightening words if directed at you,

and with consequences ranging from fines to jail time and even to the break up of families and loss of hope for the future. We’re in some court on most days, dealing with criminal cases, DWI, drugs, violence and a variety of matters... all very serious in nature. We feel a good defense might be all a person needs to straighten out a life.

ERIC KOHLMEIER

CURATED BY JOHN SNYDER pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

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

SANCHEZ, MAGLIO STANDOUTS AT MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY

Monmouth University congratulates the outstanding academic achievements of students who qualify for the spring 2025 Deanʼs List. Recipients from home: Amanda Sanchez of Emerson; Daniel Maglio of Park Ridge.

LOCAL KIDS ROCK THE LISTS AT UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

14,289 students enrolled during spring semester 2025 at The University of Alabama were named to the deanʼs list with an academic record of 3.5 or above or the presidentʼs list with an academic record of all As. Local students named to the deanʼs list: Daniella Ortiz of Emerson, Ryan Giambelluca of Park Ridge, Abigail Lawson of the Township of Washington, and Jacob Eichner and Mia Piantino of Woodcliff Lake. On the presidentʼs list:Zach Groves of Woodcliff Lake.

RICCIARDI, CANNON GRADUATE THE COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

The College of Charleston awarded the following local students undergraduate degrees at its spring 2025 commencement: Reilly Ricciardi of Hillsdale and Blathnat Cannon of the Township of Washington, both taking bachelor degrees in marketing.

HUGHES,

LEGASPI

NAMED

TO CENTENNIAL ACADEMIC HONOR ROLL

A record 109 Muhlenberg College student-athletes were recognized for their performance in the classroom and in competition with selection to the Centennial Conference Academic Honor Roll for the spring 2025 season.

Local honorees include Bren-

S Sc c h o o ol l N e w s

dan Hughes of Park Ridge, a member of the collegeʼs baseball team majoring in accounting and finance, and Kaitlyn Legaspi of Emerson, a member of the Womenʼs Track & Field team studying psychology.

Muhlenberg tells Pascack Press that Hughes earned Academic Honor Roll recognition for the third straight spring and was also named an Academic All-Centennial honoree. This season, he also earned All-Region 5 honors and was named to the All-Centennial Conference First Team as a pitcher, after previously receiving First Team recognition at first base.

He was the ace of the Mule staff, going 3–1 with a 4.22 ERA in 10 starts. In Centennial Conference play, he posted a 2.83 ERA — third-best in the league — and held opponents to a .259 batting average in five conference starts. Hughes also hit .329 with three home runs (including a game-winning blast against nationally ranked Gettysburg), drove in 39 runs, and recorded 18 doubles — third-most in the CC and the second-highest single-season total in program history.

He finished his career with 100 strikeouts as a pitcher and 100 RBI as a hitter. He hit .316 for his career with 10 home runs and ranks seventh all-time at Muhlenberg with 34 career doubles.

The Mules went 19–20 in 2025, remaining in playoff contention until the final day of the season. The 10-win improvement from 2024 tied for the secondlargest year-to-year gain in program history, behind only the 2008 team, which went 20–20 after finishing 9–25 the year before.

More than 30% of Muhlenberg students participate in the collegeʼs 23-sport NCAA Division III athletics program. The red-andgrey Mules compete in the Centennial Conference.

STEINBERG, OF WESTWOOD, GRADUATES SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN

Sarah Steinberg, a resident of Westwood, received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) at commencement ceremonies in Georgia on May 30.

She graduated cum laude from SCADʼs School of Film and Acting with a degree in production design and a concentration in costume design. During her education at SCAD, Steinberg had the distinguished honor of being selected to study for a summer at the schoolʼs campus in Lacoste, France. She looks forward to an exciting career of

designing costumes for television and film production companies.

GRADZKI EXCELS AT THE COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

Congratulations to Alice Gradzki of Montvale, majoring in psychology, who was named to the College of Charleston spring 2025 Presidentʼs List. To qualify as highly distinguished, students must earn a GPA of 3.800 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.

BOWEN, ROMANELLI, MORRISON MAKE DEAN’S LIST AT COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

The College of Charleston congratulates more than 1,880 students named to the Deanʼs List for Spring 2025. Following the collegeʼs lead, we salute our local recipients:Kiera Bowen of Hillsdale, majoring in psychology; Julia Romanelli of Hillsdale, majoring in early childhood education; and Erin Morrison of Westwood, majoring in exercise science.

ROBERT MORRIS UNIVERSITY ROCKETS ROSTA TO START OF NURSING CAREER

Jacqueline Rosta of the Township of Washington, graduate of Westwood Regional High School, recently graduated cum laude from Robert Morris University with a bachelor of science degree in nursing — and received a Global Service Award for delivering community health services in two countries. She passed the NCLEX and has accepted a position, starting this August, in the post-surgery trauma unit at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, a Level 1 Adult Trauma Center.

AREA RESIDENTS NAMED TO DEAN’S LIST AT QUINNIPIAC

The following area students were named to the deanʼs list for spring 2025 at Quinnipiac University: From Emerson: Thomas Comeau and Jessica Sabino; Hillsdale: Nshan Atakhanian and Christian Tabano; Montvale: Matthew Goldman and Justin Ohnikian; Park Ridge: Kayla Hunt; River Vale: Francesca Di Stefano, Isabella DiBari, Nicolette Greco, Dean Hussein, James Palermo, and Kevin Wirchansky; Township of Washington: Allison Gervais, Nicholas Gervais, Taylor Nicholson, Skylar Scasserra; Jillian Nelson, and Olivia Ramos; Westwood: Christina Cafaro, Antonio Rosado, Jenna Visich, and Vincent Woods.

LOW NAMED TO PRESIDENT’S LIST AT MIAMI UNIVERSITY

River Valeʼs Sabrina Low was named to the Miami University spring 2025 Presidentʼs List, ranking among the top 3% of

undergraduate students within each division.

HORNIDGE NAMED TO COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY’S SPRING 2025 DEAN’S LIST

Commonwealth University congratulates Morgan Hornidge of Westwood for being named to the spring 2025 Deanʼs List at the CUBloomsburg campus. The list recognizes those students who have achieved academic distinction. The student must have earned a GPA of at least 3.50, on a 4.0 scale, in 12 or more semester hours of letter grades.

CUCURULLO, MOHR DAZZLE AT UNIVERSITY OF HARTFORD

The University of Hartford is pleased to announce that 2,228 students have been named to the Deanʼs and Presidentʼs lists for spring 2025. Local honorees are Mars Cucurullo of the Township of Washington (Deanʼs List), and Grace Mohr of Westwood (Deanʼs List and Presidentʼs List).

BEUTEL GRADUATES FROM UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO

Tatianna Beutel of Westwood graduated summa cum laude from the University at Buffalo with a bachelorʼs degree in nursing from the School of Nursing. UB is New York Stateʼs flagship and the largest and most comprehensive institution in the State University of New York system.

MODERACKI GRADUATES RUTGERS WITH HONORS

Christophe Moderacki of the Township of Washington graduated Rutgers University on May 18 during a ceremony held at SHI Stadium. He earned a bachelor of science degree in environmental policy, institutions, and behavior, with a minor in sustainability, from the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, graduating magna cum laude. We expected great things: Moderacki, a 2021 graduate of Westwood Regional High School, is an Eagle Scout of Troop 321 in the Township of Washington and a member of The Order of the Arrow, Scoutingʼs national honor society.

LOCALS SHINE ON FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY

DEAN’S LIST

The following local Fairfield University students received Deans List honors for the spring 2025 semester. From Emerson: Julia Tumino and Ryan Vieni; Hillsdale: Caroline Bonner, John Hachadourian, Mia Hachadourian, and Kristen Wymbs. Montvale: Daniel Agranovich and Maeve Frize; Park Ridge: Alicia Healy and James Moran; River Vale: Jack Lewis, Kelly OʼBrien, Caitlin Scacchetti, and Sara Wentland; Township of Washington: Emma Eagar, Ryan Fox, and Matthew Molta; Westwood: Morgan Fedorchak and William Roche; Woodcliff Lake: Mackenzie Carluccio, Brodie Kinnear, and Peter Torre.

LUSTIG, OF PARK RIDGE, WINS TERUMO SCHOLARSHIP

Daniel Lustig, a Park Ridge resident and student at James Madison University, has been awarded a Terumo Americas Holding Inc. Scholarship, given to children of Terumo Medical Corporation associates who are e nrolled—or planning to enroll—fulltime in college, university, or technical school programs.

Daniel, the son of Michael Lustig, is majoring in computer information systems. In high school, he was active in DECA, Interact, and the National Honor Society. Recipients are selected competitively based on academic performance and personal achievements.

All phases of the scholarship competition are independently managed by two national organizations: Career Opportunities Through Education, Inc. (Cote) and Scholarship Managers (SM), both of which specialize in scholarship program administration. Terumo Americas Holding Inc. of Somerset is a leader in the medical device industry.

TOWNSHIP’S SIROIS NAMED TO WPI DEAN’S

LIST

John Sirois, a resident of the Township of Washington and a Westwood Regional High School graduate, has been named to the Deanʼs List at Worcester Polytechnic Institute for the spring 2025 semester. Sirois, a member of WPIʼs Class of 2026, is majoring in mechanical engineering. Deanʼs List honors at WPI recognize academic work performed at the “A” level, including coursework and real-world project-based learning.

ATAALLA, OF MONTVALE, AWARDED THEODORE K. STEELE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Liliana Ataalla of Montvale has been awarded the Theodore K. Steele Memorial Scholarship at New York Institute of Technology. Students must achieve a minimum GPA of 3.75 to be awarded this scholarship.

A nonprofit, independent, private, and nonsectarian institute of higher education founded in 1955, New York Institute of Technology welcomes nearly 8,000 students worldwide.

VOGT, OF WESTWOOD, GRADUATES HAMILTON COLLEGE

Hannah Vogt of Westwood received a bachelor of arts degree from Hamilton College on Sunday, May 25, in a commencement ceremony concluding the college's 2024–25 academic year. Vogt, a psychology major, graduated cum laude with departmental honors in psychology

HUGHES

STEINBERG

LUSTIG

ROSTA

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Setting the record straight on health claims

We live in a g olden age of medical innovat ion. We can regrow organs in labs, use AI to detect cancer earlier, and track everything from heart rate to sleep cycles on our smartwatches. And yet—despite all this progress— many of us are still operating u nder outdated health advice thatʼs due for a second look.

Letʼs start with fat. For decades, fat was labeled the villain of nutrition. But the truth is, healthy fats—like those found in avocados, olive oil, nuts, seeds,

and wild-caught fish—are essential for brain health, hormone balance, and keeping you satisfied between meals. Ironically, many “low-fat” products swap fat for sugar or starch, which can actually do more harm than good. Cholesterol, too, has been misunderstood. While high levels of certain types of cholesterol can be a concern, your body also needs cholesterol to build cells, produce hormones, and support brain function. Not all cholesterol is created equal—and it's important to focus on overall lifestyle, not just one number on a blood test.

Another key player in your health: your gut. Trillions of bacteria live in your digestive syst em, shaping everything from

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immunity to mood to energy levels. Taking antibiotics unnecessarily or overusing processed foods can throw this delicate system off balance. Supporting your microbiome with fiber-rich, whole foods is a powerful investment in your long-term wellness.

Some people might also benefit from reevaluating their relationship with dairy. While milk and cheese can be part of a balanced diet for many, others may experience bloating, skin irritation, or congestion. Listening to your body—and working with a q ualified provider—can help clarify whether dairy is a friend or foe for you.

L abels like “fat-free,”

“sugar-free,” and “gluten-free” can also be misleading. A “sugarfree” snack might contain artificial sweeteners that donʼt work for everyone. “Gluten-free” cookies are still cookies. The best nutritional advice remains the simplest: focus on whole, minimally processed, colorful foods, and try to cook at home when you can.

At Kaplan Brain & Body, we believe better health starts with better information. Thatʼs why we offer qEEG brain mapping, a noninvasive, radiation-free tool that gives you a real look at your brainʼs activity. Brain fog, anxiety, and focus issues arenʼt just in your head—theyʼre in your brainwaves. And once we know whatʼs

going on, we can create a personalized, natural path forward. Normally, qEEG brain mapping is $600—but mention this article and youʼll pay just $21 for your full brain map.

• Call 201-261-2150 or e mail info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to book your appointment today.

L earn more: Tune in to “Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan” every Saturday at 8 a.m. on AM 970 and again at 2 p.m. on WOR 710. Your body isnʼt broken— and your brain holds the blueprint for getting back to balance. Letʼs uncover the real story and help you thrive, naturally.

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

Lights:

explained. “The wireʼs being pulled through from point to point on the open ends. Theyʼre trying to eliminate a splice under an open-air grate—one thatʼs vulnerable to corrosion from road salt and the elements.”

The July 3 explosion had triggered an underground fire, plunging Westwoodʼs Central Business District, or CBD, into darkness and knocking out traffic lights, NJ Transit signals, train gates, and street lamps just on the cusp of the

July Fourth holiday. Power remained down for hours, with emergency crews scrambling to secure intersections and prevent chaos.

On the 14th, crews returned to replace the transformer on Fairview Avenue and install new wiring beneath Westwood, Fairview, and Center avenues. A separate crew was dispatched just to clean maintenance holes so linemen could safely access the underground work zones.

“Between Public Service mechanics and the cleaning crews, thereʼs a ton of equipment on site—commensurate with the amount of work to be done,” Arroyo said. “The utility is

Bear Brook Builders

staffing it as a one-day project to avoid further disruption to residents, business owners, and visitors.” As well, the countyʼs road crew was completing final line striping on Kinderkamack Road. Police directed traffic around both projects.

The push to fix the system capped a dramatic series of events that began on the night of Wednesday, July 3, with what Arroyo later riffed on as “a scene recalling an apocalyptic moment” in Billy Joelʼs “Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway)”

“Iʼve seen the lights go out on Broadway / I saw the [CBD] laid low…”

The explosion and subsequent underground fire set off a swift response. Officers deployed traffic cones, Westwood Volunteer

Fire Department Deputy Chief Brian Wiecenski arrived on scene, and DPW and fire department per-

sonnel coordinated in case additional resources were needed. The maintenance hole that housed the transformer had to be drained before utility crews could safely begin repairs.

Arroyo credited WPD Sgt. Dean McCarroll, DPW and WVFD responder Matt Velthaus (“who was on scene and coordinating with DPW Superintendent Rick Woods in case DPW resources were needed”), and WPD Chief Michael Pontillo— who kept officials informed despite being out of state on vacation. “We have a great team and we truly appreciate their commitment to public safety,” the mayor said on Independence Day. “And last, but not least, thanks to the PSEG utility workers who toiled diligently into the night to turn the lights back on! Happy 4th of July to all!”

Gratitude quickly poured in from residents, especially those in the Westwood House senior residence, one of the properties affected by the outage.

“I appreciate everything that was done,” wrote Delores Barksdale in a comment on Arroyoʼs update. “I was stuck in my electric recliner and scared to try to climb out of it... Everything went smooth at the Westwood senior house. We old-timers can handle this little inconvenience.”

P Paassccaacck k P Prreesss s

welcomes press releases, birth announcements, wedding announcements an event photographs from all towns in the Pascack Valley. Send all news to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net

Utility workers on the job in downtown Westwood on a wet July 14, 2025. John Snyder photo.

Solar:

FROM PAGE 6

their own department and committee liaisonships.”

He said, “There are other companies available through the NJ Community Solar Energy Program (CSEP). However, this one seemed to be well established with a track record that our residents are encouraged to scrutinize before making a decision.”

“A disclaimer noting This information is being provided by the Borough of Westwood for informational purposes only” would have made officialsʼintention that much clearer, Arroyo said, “but was overlooked in this communication.”

He added, “In light of PSEGʼs intended 20% rate hikes, we opted to share the information with our residents, and we encourage all households to research the options and to make an informed decision.”

“I completely understand the confusion,” Collins told Pascack Press as the thread gained comments. “We should have done a better job preparing the public for the mailing.”

Collins added that the initiative had been in development since November 2024, with the council initially considering whether to share information through the West-

wood Environmental Committee. Scheduling delays pushed the public presentation to May. “The idea was always to provide options—not to make choices for residents,” she said.

The solar project featured in the letter involves a commercial rooftop installation in Westwood that will offer subscribers a 31% discount on electricity generated by their share of the array.

Though the system may not be energized until 2026, residents can already sign up for this or other projects in the PSE&G service area and begin saving when those projects go live.

To participate, residents must provide their PSE&G account number. While the program is open to all, low- and moderate-income households are prioritized.

A complete list of active community solar projects is available at nj.pseg.com, and additional program details are posted on njcleanenergy.com.

We asked Collins whether, in light of the Trump administrationʼs moves against tax credits and other support for solar, this program could be seen as in jeopardy.

She said, “Personally, I would suggest residents obtain the solar panels sooner rather than later due to the deadline. However, the CSEP is something that can be done immediately that would not affect whether you have solar panels or not on your property – you are just reserving a

spot on the grid to support the solar initiative as a whole while saving money on your energy bill.”

Despite initial missteps, officials say the programʼs promise—cheaper energy and greener infrastructure—is worth exploring.

Residents with questions are encouraged to contact Borough Administrator Debra Ayer at (201) 664-7100 ext. 150 or by email at dayer@westwoodnj.gov. Arroyoʼs explanatory letter and relevant links are available at westwoodnj.gov.

Solar Urgency Rises as Federal Tax Credit Set to Expire

Homeowners considering rooftop solar installations have fresh reason to act fast.

President Trumpʼs newly signed megabill accelerates the phaseout of the federal residential solar tax credit, ending the 30% incentive on Dec. 31, 2025—seven years earlier than previously scheduled. This change has

prompted a surge in installations nationwide, as homeowners rush to take advantage of the expiring benefit. While homeowners must install panels before the yearʼs end to qualify, community solar programs like CSEP are unaffected. These programs donʼt involve ownership or installation—just enrollment—allowing renters and homeowners alike to support solar and save on electric bills.

Still, with utility-scale incentives also ending soon and an executive order targeting clean energy subsidies across federal agencies, experts warn the rollback could increase long-term electricity costs, especially in states that rely heavily on solar.

For more information visit njcleanenergy.com and nj.pseg.com.

•

Joyful learning starts here: Rec’s affordable Pre-K

Registration is open for the 2025–2026 school year at Westwood Recreation Preschool, a cheerful, nurturing environment where little learners grow, explore, and make friends. With class sizes limited, parents are encouraged to register early to secure a spot.

Westwood Recreation Preschool offers part-time, halfday programs for children ages 3–5 (as of Oct. 1, 2025). The program is designed especially for families seeking an affordable, local pre-K option without the need for full-time childcare. Itʼs the perfect introduction to school in a warm, supportive setting.

• Pre-K 4 (ages 4–5): Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Annual tuition is $2,400, and the first p ayment due at registration: $675.

• Pre-K 3 (age 3): Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Annual tuition is $2,000, and the first payment is due at registration: $525.

(Non-residents incur a $25 additional registration fee.)

The Westwood Recreation Preschool is a State of New Jersey licensed day care facility with experienced educators who understand how young children learn best—through hands-on discovery, creative play, and joyful routines.

Students build kindergarten readiness through developmentally appropriate lessons in literacy, math, science, and social studies, alongside daily practice in fine and gross motor skills, listening, social interaction, and self-help skills. Art, music, freeplay, and seasonal celebrations like Butterfly Day add extra

PARK FLOORING

magic to each week. Class sizes are capped at 24 students for the morning Pre-K 4 class and 20 students for the afternoon Pre-K 3 class. All children must be potty-trained before entering the program, and proof of address and birth certificate are required for registration.

Westwood Recreation Preschool’s Butterfly Day includes a special trip to the park to release butterflies after studying their life cycle through creative science,music, and art lessons. Courtesyphoto.

EMERSON

Borough summer concert series heats up

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

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

World Insurance, Plaza Auto Repair, Richʼs Automotive Specialists, Unity Bank, and William G. Basralian Funeral Service.

“As the Family Town of Bergen County, itʼs great when we can bring folks together to showcase our incredible local talent,” said Mayor Danielle DiPaola. This seasonʼs remaining concert lineup includes:

•July 23 – Steven Connolly

•July 30 – The Emerson Project

•Aug. 6 – Beauty & The Grease

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

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

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

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

Falasca’s Friendly Service in Hillsdale is seeking P/T Mechanic Exp. Preferred, motivated, Tires, Oil Changes & more. Call Carl or Rich at 201-666-1414.

SUBSTITUTE CUSTODIANS. River Vale Public Schools – $25/hr. Black Seal License & public school experience preferred. Must know plant operations, maintenance, and cleaning procedures. To apply, email resume or district application to: HR@rivervaleschools .com or mail to: Human Resources, RVPS 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. rivervaleschools.com. AA/EOE.

SUMMER CUSTODIANS. River Vale Public Schools. $16.50/hr. Anticipated dates: July 1–Aug. 30, 2025. Landscaping, painting, cleaning classrooms and equipment, moving furniture, etc. To apply: Email resume or district application to HR@ rivervaleschools.com or mail to RVPS, Human Resources, 609 Westwood Ave., River Vale, NJ 07675. www.rivervaleschools .com. AA/EOE.

Sandy (201) 726-2426.

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

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

assistant: meals,

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

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

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

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

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

Furniture, clothes, tools, microwave, dolls, cabinets, and much more. 15 Strawberry Hill Road, Hillsdale. Sat. July 12 and Sun. July 13, 10a-4p.

Steven Connolly is set to perform in front of Emerson Town Hall on July 23.

Theatre:

the place open to the event, which Monton said was a remarkable gift, gratefully accepted.

One last hurrah

Monton and I interviewed at the township library, July 16, as the theatre was bustling with kids from rec camp; Davidʼs Bagels, our next pick in Washington Town Center, was packed too, with the lunch rush (there, big hellos from Larry Lifrieri and town elders holding court while families waited in line, and noshed.) The library isnʼt far, and to get there from the theatre you traverse every storefront.

Monton said he knew this reunion would be the groupʼs “Follies” moment, a reference to the 1971 Tony Award-wining Broadway musical about former cast members reunited for the last time in their theatre, which is set to be demolished.

He admitted later he was glad we hadnʼt interviewed at the theatre; he and his friends had left it together on July 14, lingering from 10 to 11 of a summerʼs night, and that was a good ending.

“Everyone had different memories of when Theater 1 flooded; and when the film caught fire, sometimes, during certain of the films,” he said. “Sometimes if the lamp got too hot, the patrons would come out and be like, Thereʼs flames being projected right now on the screen. Thereʼs a fire upstairs.”

He recalled films came in four canisters the staff would thread together onto one spool. In the event of the film sizzling offscript, staff would issue on the order of 200 red passes for a future screening “because we couldnʼt get the film to start working again in the middle.”

Monton said, “It was a small independent theater, three screens, five sets a day; thatʼs what made it fun. It wasnʼt well polished. Our air conditioning broke every sin-

gle summer. We would work there for 12-hour shifts in, like, 90 degrees.”

He said, “But also, we were joking around. We had a lot of fun, where we werenʼt always the best employees, you know; where we would just be sitting outside playing cards on the patio outside, or football or Connect Four while movies were going…It was our playground.”

He said the kids — the “misfits” — ran the show; theyʼve carried that freedom, and family, forward.

Hailing from Westwood and the Township of Washington, theyʼd sold and ripped tickets, made popcorn, moved soda and candy, changed the marquee in all weather, kept the place scheduled, stocked, clean, safe, and festive — and found time to run amuck.

Now, flocking in from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Upstate New York, the Pascack Valley, and hours further afield, they have such jobs as architect, nurse practitioner, teacher, photographer, business owner, executive.

Jared D. Weiss, an art director and creator in Los Angeles, sent in animations with his favorite memories: sketches of some of the most unusual patrons (we wonʼt be able to do it justice) and why he stayed so long.

“It was my first job, it was flexible, I enjoyed working with most of my co-workers, and I even got to learn how to use the film projector, before we got rid of those. Itʼs a place with a lot of history and itʼs a shame itʼs not going to be around anymore. Iʼm very grateful for my time there,” he said.

Monton said, “We all had similar themes, especially in the early 2000s, when you didnʼt have a place, or a safe space. Like, whether you were gay or whatever, and you felt like you couldnʼt be yourself—everyone was extremely loving and nurturing and inclusive at the theater. We all say weʼre so fortunate we applied there because we never thought weʼd find our circle of friends.”

Monton, who supervises at West Bergen Mental Healthcare in

Ridgewood and leads art instruction workshops in the Pascack Valley, recalled that off-shift crew often would come back at night and “just hang out with us; we were that close.”

He said he brought boxes of tissues to the reunion (which also rocked a photo booth, and catering by attendee Bill Flynn, who owns Flynnʼs Deli &Catering). “I knew

there were going to be some tears.”

Reunion co-organizer Sheryl Sedlack Tramontano, an architect and mom, said she and Monton quit Clearview Cinemas on the same day in September 2013, she as a supervisor. “I was there for about 12 or 13 years and we worked together for maybe 10 or 11 of those. I was just old enough

to get a job and it was my first job, and still to this day in many ways my favorite job,” she said.

The theatre was her throughline at every milestone: “Iʼm there while getting my driverʼs license, graduating high school, going to college, first boyfriend, graduating college, getting a full-time job, getting married…”

She said, “We still have our memories and, you know, we still keep in touch. But it is sad to see these small community movie houses shut down. The experience you get there is not the same as at the large theaters. I know they have the amenities and the blockbuster movies, but itʼs hard to believe that the relationship between the employees is similar to what we were able to create.”

Sedlack Tramontano had worked there the longest, and so the search for theatre alumni tended to gravitate around her tenure, Monton said; though others, such as Zach Rose, Lauren Wilson, and Billy Flynn started sooner.

Monton agreed the vibe was like what prevailed at The Iron Horse restaurant in Westwood under ownership of the Tremble family. They had on the walls hundreds of photos of all the people, in group shots and candids, who worked there, adding to the story of community and being fed by it, over the years. (The venue now is The Tavern @ The Iron Horse.)

He said, “I know exactly those waiters youʼre talking about because when you went into The Iron Horse you were entering, like a family, core group. And I think a lot of people felt that way with our theatre, too: like when the patrons would come in, they knew us. We knew them. We were there for so long. You build a rapport.”

He said, “And it wasnʼt two or three years; it was over a decade. They saw us from all of high school, all of college, and we were so close, we couldnʼt leave. We started full-time jobs… but still were trying to do one or two one nights a week at the movie theater — we didnʼt want to leave one another.”

He said, “We knew how lucky we were.”

pond dredging bond referendum when it was explained to them and they understood its cost. Recently, some councilors and the mayor publicly disagreed over how that prior referendum question was worded, and whether that led to its defeat.

Approximately a month ago, resident Kerry Shelby raised the pondʼs deterioration as a pressing issue at a council meeting, noting she had started a residentsʼpetition to urge councilors to hold a referendum on dredging the pond.

The last sediment analysis of the pond was completed in 2012, and officials said another was required by NJDEP before any sediment dredging and disposal

could take place. Officials said the pond was last dredged in 1979.

Soil analysis results could help determine how costly sediment removal will be, including disposal costs, and to what depth local officials might be able to dredge the pond. Misciagna said the vote on the referendum question will let the council know if the public is willing to commit tax dollars for a pond cleanup.

He said that many grants available for pond dredging and remediation work require a match, often 50%, and that the council hopes to apply for such grants. Officials have talked about pond improvements over the last decade or more, but no council has appropriated funds or taken action.

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