PASCACKPRESS 9.1.25NEW

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

PA S C AC K VA L L E Y ’ S H O M E TO W N N E W S PA P E R

VOLUME 29 ISSUE 25

Always family

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025

‘GRATEFUL FOR MEET OUR EACHER EVERY FRIEND’ TOF THE DePieroʼs in Montvale closes after century MONTVALE

of growing goodness; mayor on next phase

YEAR

Dr. Aarti Mallya of Pascack Hills is tops in Bergen County for 2025

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

A fond farewell to Emerson Councilwoman Jill McGuire.

PAGE 16

EMERSON

NEW LIFE SOON FOR ARMENIAN CENTER? Eyes on Land Use Board, which is reviewing development plans

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

New development plans for the Armenian Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center are under review for completeness by borough Land Use Board professionals and could come before the board this fall, officials said at the Aug. 19 council meeting.

As of Aug. 25, nothing was scheduled online for upcoming board meetings.

Borough Engineer David Atkinson of Neglia Engineering, who also serves as board engineer, said notices had been sent to all residents within 200 feet of the for-

See CENTER on page 214

F

Oden and Wes Nazzaro of Chestnut Ridge had moved from Brooklyn and enjoyed the Halloween fun at DePiero’s in 2015. This Aug. 28 marked the last day of DePiero’s, but the farmland will keep busy thanks to an investment from the Borough of Montvale.

Susan McTigue/file photo.

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

FOUR GENERATIONS, DePieroʼs Farm Stand & Greenhouses was woven into the fabric of Montvale and the OR

wider Pascack Valley — pumpkins in fall, mums in the greenhouses, hayrides and haunted nights. On Aug. 26, the DePiero family announced that the farm stand was closing within days, bringing an era to an end.

“For a century, our family has had the profound privilege of stewarding this land and feeding our community. We are grateful for every customer, every friend, and every generation that has rode

Continued on page 20

F o r D r. A a r t i M a l l y a , science is more than a subject: itʼs a doorway into curiosity, discovery, and resilience — and a way for students to see themselves as capable of shaping the future.

Last week, the New Jersey Department of Education recognized her lifelong commitment to that vision, naming the Pascack Hills High School educator the 2025–2026 Bergen County Teacher of the Year. Mallya was honored alongside 20 other County Teachers of the Year at a ceremony at The College of New Jersey in Ewing.

Gov. Phil Murphy lauded the honorees, saying, “Great teachers make for great schools, and New Jersey is home to the best public school system in the nation. I applaud this yearʼs 21 County Teachers of the Year for their hard work and dedication to uplift young learners across our state.”

Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer added that the group represents “the kind of dynamic and innovative instruc-

See TEACHER on page 234

POPCORN DRIVE

B ck in time...

Emerson Cub Scout Pack 67 hits the road, selling popcorn to fund its next fun adventures.

Surely you need to stock up on popcorn, or know someone who does.

River Vale’s old Washington Township District 20 schoolhouse shed its blackboards and desks to find new life, first as a carriage house and then a firehouse. Kristin Beuscher reports.

PAGE 4

PAGE 21

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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PASCACK PRESS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

NOTE: Letter submission deadline is 10 a.m.

Wednesday for the following Monday’s paper. Publication not guaranteed. Subject to editing. Email to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net.

in turn they contacted our DPW. debris removed. and EMT in Hillsdale for their It was a Saturday and only a Hillsdale’s Some take for granted these gifts of service to our town, and to Re-elect skeleton crew was on call. The “road warriors” who serve the all volunteers and coordinators police cordoned off the street community when events like this who help make Hillsdale a great ‘road Jason Garcia immediately, and within 10 min- happen, clearing roads for EMT, place to live. utes the DPW crew came armed police, fire, and pedestrians to get Sincerely, warriors’ with their equipment and machin- through to homes and work. A Robert and Susan Redvanly to WW BOE ery to remove the tree from the shout out to our great police, fire, Hillsdale To the editor: To the editor: street. It was raining, and I felt past three years, Iʼve A situation happened to us sev- bad and asked them if there was had the honor of serving as a F anything I could do.

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COMMENTARY

HE QUESTION of housing stirs strong emotions in the Pascack Valley. For many residents, “affordable housing” is often conflated with “overdevelopment” — too much density, too little parking, too great a strain on schools and services. The terms get blurred, and important distinctions are lost.

In an Aug. 26 op-ed in NJ Spotlight News, Paul Shackford of Ridgewood-based Family Promise of Bergen County recounted his groupʼs effort to create eight units of temporary housing in a vacant building theyʼd contracted for in Emerson, at 436 Old Hook Road. The goal was simple: to help working families with children who are suddenly at risk of losing their homes. The reception, he said, was chilly. Some residents worried about traffic. Others said allowing eight children to enroll in local schools would “ruin” them.

(For background in our pages, see Michael Olohanʼs excellent reporting: “Family Promise weighs options after site denial,” March 1; and “Family Promise seeks shelter after zoning snub,” April 14, 2025.)

As Shackford wrote, such fears are misplaced. The families his nonprofit serves are not strangers. They are the grocery clerks, the gas station attendants, the servers and aides who keep our daily lives running. What they lack is not work ethic but stable, affordable shelter. Accord-

ing to national data, New Jersey faces a deficit of more than 200,000 affordable rental units for extremely lowincome famiBY JOHN lies. In Bergen SNYDER County, new housing continues to rise, but only a fraction is set aside as affordable.

At the same time, municipalities like Montvale — with support from Hillsdale, Old Tappan, Westwood, Washington Township, River Vale, Oradell, Allendale, Wyckoff, and others — are

vigorously, with housing justice in New Jersey— and which has already garnered headlines ripping Montvale and its allies. (See our related story, page 1.)

This is where perception matters. To such critics, our towns already look like enclaves of exclusion: wealthy communities unwilling to shoulder their share of a statewide problem.

Emerson calls itself “the Family Town,” and Montvale, Westwood, and others take pride in being welcoming places. Yet stories like Shackfordʼs reinforce an image of wealthy suburbs shutting the door on families who are already part of our communities.

It is important to separate these strands. The Shutterstock debate over how much development Trenton can mandate is one conversation.

The question of how we respond to working families in crisis is another. Both deserve thoughtful attention, and both shape how the Pascack Valley is seen pushing back against what they and lived. (Weʼre delighted to see as overreach from Trenton. report on all of this, and welcome Mayor Michael Ghassali and a a lively, respectful exchange of bipartisan coalition, Local Leadconstructive views in our Letters ers For Responsible Planning, section.) have filed suit against the stateʼs In the end, it comes down to new housing law, arguing that this: if we fight every proposal fourth-round mandates go too far, and offer no alternatives, the perimpose obligations beyond what ception will harden that we are is constitutionally required, and not family towns at all — just threaten to erode local control. fortress towns. That is not the Moreover, the mayor gets in legacy most of us want to leave. a zinger in branding the bor8 Pascack Press Editor oughʼs new Fair Share Farming John Snyder shares his views for Center initiative on former readersʼ consideration and disDePieroʼs farmland, inviting cussion. These views are not rhetorical contrast to the Cherry necessarily shared by The Press Hill nonprofit Fair Share Housing Group or its partners. As Center, which concerns itself, always, brief, respectful, signed

letters on timely local topics may be submitted for considera-

tion at pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net. See Page 2.

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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Affordable housing, overdevelopment, and perception

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

4

EXPERT TO SPEAK ON THE JERSEY DUTCH, PASCACK’S EARLY SETTLERS PARK RIDGE

The Pascack Historical Society is delighted to welcome renowned Bergen County historian Tim Adriance as he presents a special program, The Jersey Dutch Culture, on Sunday, Sept. 7 at 2 p.m. All are welcome to attend this event, which takes place in the museumʼs lecture hall, 19 ADRIANCE Ridge Ave. The program is free for Pascack Historical Society members as well as students.

For non-members, there will be a $5 admission fee at the door. PHS volunteers will provide complimentary refreshments.

Once the dominant culture in Bergen County, the Jersey Dutch were a unique cultural group with their own dialect, decorative arts, traditions, and distinctive building style. This presentation explores the remnants of this culture that still exist today. Many county residents can trace their ancestry to this group.

Hear about the Jersey Dutch dialect (and the late James B.H. Storms of Park Ridge, one of its last speakers).

You will be amazed to learn that words you use today are actually Dutch.

There will be photographic examples of Jersey Dutch decorative arts found in everyday items, from kitchenware to furniture and to works of art.

Discover the traditions, and even the superstitions, of the culture. Finally, learn about the lasting legacy of this

See DUTCH on page 344

inside DINING GUIDE

12

CLASSIFIEDS

38

SCHOOL

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HEALTH & WELLNESS 24 HOME IMPROVEMENT 28 REAL ESTATE

30

SERVICES

35

LETTER TO THE EDITOR 2

B ck in time...

The three lives of River Vale’s one-room schoolhouse

L

anyone talked about recycling or sustainability, the people of River Vale simply refused to waste a good building. What today might be described as adaptive reuse was in the 19th century simply a matter of thrift.

This is the story of River Valeʼs old Washington Township District 20 schoolhouse, which shed its blackboards and desks to find new life first as a carriage house and later as the townʼs firehouse.

SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

By Kristin Beuscher, president of the Pascack Historical Society, Park Ridge.

Call (201) 573-0307 or visit ONG BEFORE

The District 20 schoolhouse and student body circa 1890. This school stood at Piermont Avenue and Rivervale Road in what is now River Vale, serving a rural community of fewer than 200.

PascackHistoricalSociety.org

Now some might be thinking, “What does Washington Township have to do with it? I thought this was a River Vale story!”

At the time when this old schoolhouse was in use, the entire Pascack Valley was Washington Township. The massive township was divided into school districts, each with its own one-room schoolhouse where all grades were taught by a single teacher. The District 20 school was built in 1857 at the northwest corner of Piermont Avenue and Rivervale Road (now the Edgewood Country Club property).

The children of the local farmers would complete their morning chores and then journey to school each day, walking along the narrow dirt lanes or occasionally transported by horse-drawn wagon. Older children helped the younger ones as they received a basic education in reading, writing, arithmetic, history, and geography.

Schooling ended by the eighth grade or earlier, which served them just fine—most of the pupils would become farmers or learn a trade such as blacksmithing or carpentry.

A far cry from todayʼs schools that are filled with technology, the one-room schoolhouse had no indoor plumbing or electricity.

Water came from a nearby well, and the bathroom was an outhouse. The only light, besides that which poured through the large windows, was from kerosene lamps. A chimney visible at the rear of the building tells us something about the heat source—probably a cast iron stove that burned wood or coal.

See BACK on page 344

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

In 1895, the vacant school was moved to Abram C. Holdrum’s estate for use as a carriage house. It is the building on the left in this 1899 photograph showing Holdrum’s barn and poultry yard.

In this 1924 photograph, we see the old schoolhouse behind the fire department’s first motorized truck. River Vale firefighters used the building as a temporary headquarters for several years after the department was founded in 1923

PASCACK VALLEY’S HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

Publisher Editor Staff Writer Contributing Editor Art Director Director of Advertising

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

(c) 2025 The Press Group, all rights reserved.

Material is developed independently by Pascack Press. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is forbidden. Views printed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. We are neither liable nor responsible for typographical errors. Email us with correction requests.

Pascack Press is published in Westwood and distributed to every household in our circulation area.

5

MONTVALE Veteran community journalist Michael Olohan, senior reporter for Pascack Press, made his “Montvale in Motion” debut on the popular community television program

The borough streams on demand a rich range of content, from council meetings to special events to work session meetings, as well as the local personality maga-

Tuned in: Anthony “Tony” Salerno Jr., left, hosts Pascack Press senior reporter Michael Olohan on “Montvale in Motion” in late August. Salerno also recently interviewed residents singer/actress/teacher/director Rachel Menconi, Mayor Michael Ghassali, and Bergen County Commissioner Tom Sullivan. Screenshot.

in late August.

On the show, longtime host and author Anthony “Tony” Salerno Jr. quizzed Olohan about how he got started in journalism, what he most enjoys about the job, the challenges and opportunities of social media, the most interesting stories heʼs covered, the decline of print newspapers, and how to get the most out of reading Pascack Press — which also has a popular website, thepressgroup.net.

The nearly 14-minute interview can be found by visiting the borough website and clicking on My Montvale TV just underneath the Mayorʼs Corner link.

mayor appearances. “Montor 201-664-2105. vale in Motion” features Potential advertisers interviews with lessershould contact Advertisknown newsmakers and ing Director George personalities who help Harcher at ads@thepenhance the Pascack ressgroup.net or 201Valleyʼs quality of life.

664-2105.

The station also Salerno hosts two posted three more new shows, “My Montvale” videos in late August, and “Montvale in Michael Motion.” “My Mont- Olohan covers with Salerno interviewvale” regularly features elections, budg- ing actress, teacher, and director Rachel Menconversations with local ets, land use, and county public offi- and much more coni, a resident.

On “My Montcials, including regular for Pascack Press.

vale,” Salerno interviewed Mayor Michael Ghassali and Bergen County Commissioner Tom Sullivan, also a resident.

The shows also appear on Ch. 35 (FIOS) and Ch. 77 (Optimum). Check channel schedules for program times. The Aug. 22 interviews will run through the end of September on community television channels.

An archive of interviews can be found under the My Montvale TV link.

— Pascack Press

NEW DIGITAL DENTISTRY

zine shows, going back to 2018.

Olohan has been a reporter with Pascack Press and its sister publication, Northern Valley Press, since September 2017. He covers municipal government, including town councils, school boards, planning/zoning boards, local elections, and local/regional development and redevelopment.

He has been recognized for excellence in grassroots reporting by the New Jersey chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

Olohan notes that residents with news tips or information on news stories should connect via pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Veteran reporter Olohan ‘in motion,’ on the air

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

6

Deer neighbors: All invited to session on management

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

OLD TAPPAN

A senior Department of Environmental Protection biologist will provide local and regional options to Pascack Valley officials in Old Tappan to address concerns about deer overpopulation, potential deer tick-spread Lyme disease and increasing motor vehicle accidents caused by deer.

The presentation, by NJDEP Senior Biologist Brian Schumm,

will include a question and answer period for officials and the public, on Monday, Sept. 15, 7:30 p.m. at the Old Tappan Borough Council meeting.

Schumm told Pascack Press, “While a lone municipality can certainly achieve a meaningfully reduced population size with significantly reduced deer–human conflicts, a regional approach to deer management has great benefits.”

He added, “Deer management in suburban areas is complex and collaboration between communi-

ties can help identify and effectuate solutions to a regional abundance problem better than one community alone. Collaboration also helps prevent a lone municipality from bearing a disproportionate responsibility for any deer population reduction efforts.”

Schumm told us that he will offer options and actions that individual landowners as well as a town might wish to take to minimize future deer con-

flicts and impacts.

“NJDEP Fish & Wildlife has been working with various municipalities in Bergen County for years with surveys indicating that parts of the county are significantly overpopulated with deer,” said Schumm.

He added, “Habitat fragmentation is a key contributor, with residents living in high building-density developments far from green spaces generally experiencing

reduced deer populations compared to their neighbors living within a few blocks of green spaces.”

Old Tappan Mayor Thomas Gallagher, who invited Schumm and all Pascack Valley mayors to the meeting, said complaints about deer have been increasing and hoped the NJDEP official might offer deer management options to start a “conversation” among mayors and other public officials.

Gallagher said the public is encouraged to attend.

HILLSDALE

HFPL restores Sunday hours

The Hillsdale Free Public Library will restore Sunday service hours, 1 to 4 p.m., beginning Sept. 7. The library had not been open on Sundays after experiencing a deep budget cut during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic.

Library director Dave Franz tells Pascack Press,. “We are very happy to be in a position to resume Sunday hours, especially as we approach 2026, in which we celebrate 90 years of service to the community.”

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7

Bids out on George White fixes

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

Sixteen contractors picked up bid specs for renovations and new construction at the George G. White Middle School with final bids due back by Sept. 24, said the project architect at an Aug 25 update for school officials.

At the meeting, Superintendent Robert Lombardy said everything appeared to be falling into line for the Sept. 4 opening of the modular classrooms which will house sixth, seventh, and eighth graders over the next two years.

He said the electrical transformer — which was a question mark at one point — was ready for final electrical hookups and testing and expected to be operating well before opening day.

Overall, officials revealed that due to a month-long delay caused by the local construction code official who took weeks to decide and then declined to review and approve plans for modular classrooms and middle school renovations, the project was put at least two to three months behind schedule. That municipal employee has since retired, officials told us.

Moreover, school officials said the local construction code officialʼs reluctance to review the plans, which was completely unexpected, threw off their schedule by almost three months. In addition, Lombardy said construction reviews by the state Department of Community Affairs cost the dis-

Architect Joseph DiCara of DiCara Rubino Architects outlines the George White construction plan timeline as Hillsdale Superintendent Robert Lombardy (left) and Board Secretary/Administrator Sacha Pouliot look on during the Aug. 25 Board of Education meeting. Photo by Mike Olohan

trict an extra $275,000, while local review/approvals would have cost nothing.

“We had to work under duress all summer to get that done,” he said of the 26 modular classrooms being set up in Maher FIeld, opposite the middle school. He said modular classrooms should have been completely installed by early to mid July and also asbestos abatement of the multi-purpose room completed by mid-July.

Both projects were significantly delayed by the holdup caused by a lack of local construction reviews, officials said.

“The delay by the local code official was a punch to the gut,

physically and financially,” Lombardy said Aug. 25. Added School Board President Justin Saxon, “Itʼs unfortunate that one person could impede the progress of a plan whatever reasons that person had,” he noted.

“Sheʼs not necessarily hurting the Board of Ed, sheʼs hurting the children of Hillsdale,” said Saxon.

Officials noted Lombardy had reached out to speak with the code official several times during a 20day review period and there was “radio silence.” DiCara said professionals had also reached out to the code official to offer guidance

See BIDS on page 344

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Joy in Bloom: Fest marks 10 years as garden fountain renewed

BY JOHN SNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

HILLSDALE

For families in Hillsdale and well beyond, the last Saturday in September has become a day to gather in the heart of town, where music and laughter mingle with butterflies set free in memory of a 7-year-old girl who never came home from selling Girl Scout cookies more than 50 years ago.

On Sept. 27, from 2 to 5 p.m., the Joanʼs Joy Child Safety Festival celebrates its 10th year at the Joan Angela DʼAlessandro White Butterfly Sculpture and Garden, just outside the Hillsdale

Train Station. The free event has grown since its start in 2015 into a community tradition, equal parts family fun and heartfelt reminder of the importance of child safety.

This yearʼs schedule includes a “Holding Hands to Stand Up for Child Safety” circle, a guest speaker, live entertainment, and the annual butterfly release — always a highlight. Children will enjoy face painting, balloon twisting, and games, while families take chances at the Tricky Tray and 50/50 raffle.

Proceeds benefit the Foundationʼs child safety programs and support for at-risk children and youth.

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The Child Safety Forever fountain at the White Butterfly Garden was refurbished by Jerry Romano of Liquid Designz, who pledged to Rosemarie D’Alessandro to provide monthly maintenance at no cost. Joan’s Joy photo. the Child Safety Forever fountain A garden renewed The gathering takes place at the White Butterfly Garden was against the backdrop of a freshly refurbished by Jerry Romano of renewed memorial. Rosemarie Liquid Designz, who pledged to DʼAlessandro tells us that in July provide monthly maintenance at

Joan Angela D’Alessandro no cost. The new design features a larger basin and a stronger water stream.

The fountain, donated in 2018 by Drewʼs Pondscapes, anchors the garden dedicated to Joan Angela DʼAlessandro, whose 1973 assault and murder galvanized a movement to protect children and inspired the creation of the Joanʼs Joy Foundation.

For longtime residents, the festival is both commemoration and celebration: an afternoon where neighbors gather not just for raffles and refreshments, but also to stand together around a symbol of resilience.

For more informtion, visit joansjoy.org or write rosebd@email.com.

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BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

EMERSON

The borough has taken two important legal steps against the redeveloper of the long-stalled downtown mixed-use project known as Emerson Station and — on its still-active residential leasing website — Citzen Emerson.

It filed a notice of default and a notice of termination against Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal (ERUR), citing the companyʼs failure to pay property taxes over the past year and its inability to complete the project in a timely manner. The steps are seen as possible moves toward condemnation.

“From a legal perspective they have been put on notice.

There is no ability to ʻcureʼ the termination because they were terminated for two purposes,” borough attorney John McCann said Aug. 19. “We are well past the time period they had to construct” the project.

McCann said a new attorney for ERUR responded to the notices, claiming they were “not proper” and that the borough had “acted in bad faith” by not approving a new site for seven affordable units. He called those claims “preposterous,” noting that he had made a counterproposal for siting the off-site units that went unanswered.

The shell of the project— which dominates downtown—has seen no construction activity for months, officials said. Approved in late December 2018, the devel-

Above, redeveloper’s 2018 rendering of the proposed Emerson Station mixed-use project on Kinderkamack Road between Lincoln and Linwood. The project passed the Land Use Board, controversially, and the borough now has filed notices of default and termination against Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal (ERUR), citing the company’s failure to pay property taxes over the past year and its inability to complete the project in a timely manner. The steps are seen as possible moves toward condemnation. Right: the unfinished, apparently adrift, project. John Snyder/file. opment has been plagued by lawsuits over property condemnations, delays, unpaid obligations, and disputes over where to build affordable housing.

A legal battle over ERURʼs failure to pay $500,000 for the deed to ambulance property has been ongoing in Superior Court since June 2020. ERUR claims the borough missed a Dec. 31, 2019 deadline to submit design plans, permits, and a site for a new ambulance building, thereby forfeiting the payment.

Accurate Builders still advertises, on CitizenEmersonNJ.com, “New studio, 1, 1 plus den, and 2 bedroom luxury rentals coming soon … as we near our grand opening fall 2024.”

Earlier this year, Mayor Danielle DiPaola suggested a possible “global resolution” of the $500,000 dispute and related liti-

gation might be in the works. The latest filings, however, leave the long-running case unresolved.

At the Aug. 19 Borough Council meeting, McCann confirmed the borough had served ERUR with the notices of default and termination, citing unpaid taxes and project delays.

Pascack Press requested copies of the notices and ERURʼs response but did not receive them by press time. Efforts to reach McCann were also unsuccessful.

In late 2024 and earlier this year, the council authorized McCann to take all necessary steps—including possible condemnation—to expedite the project.

The plan called for 147 apartments and 14,000 square feet of retail and restaurants near the downtown train station. The site remains partly built, with exposed

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McCann said he recently heard from an investor making a “last-ditch effort” to move the project forward, but the proposal offered nothing new.

While the investor agreed to build affordable units off-site, he sought “guarantees” that McCann said he could not provide.

McCann described the effort as “bad faith.”

Asked in May about the projectʼs status, McCann said, “We are going to defend the taxpayersʼ interests, and everything is on the table—including condemnation.”

On Nov. 12, 2024, the council

authorized McCann to file a breach-of-contract lawsuit. He said any future action could include condemnation, pending council approval. He did not raise condemnation at the Aug. 19 meeting.

Although a condemnation lawsuit remains possible, McCann has acknowledged it would be a costly process. The council has not openly discussed the option.

For background, see “Judge throws ERUR out on Block 419: DiPaola ʻtook slings and arrowsʼ on federal suit, a win for taxpayers,” by Michael Olohan, May 4, 2025, thepressgroup.net.

PARK RIDGE RECREATION & CULTURAL COMMITTEE PRESENTS

SEPTEMBER EVENTS! DON’T MISS OUR FUN PARK RIDGE RECREATION AND CULTURAL COMMITTEE EVENTS!

• Saturday, 9/6 - 2025 North Jersey Concert Band & Fireworks Show at PRHS Field 6 PM • Saturday, 9/13 -14th Annual 2025 Car Show at Pool Lot (123 Colony Ave) 9-3 PM • Sunday, 9/21- Collectible Car Fair for Kids and Teens- Colony Field (60 Brook Rd) 10-2 PM • Saturday, 9/27 - Family Oktoberfest with Park Ridge Elks at Lodge (13 Sulak La) 4-9 PM Visit www.parkridgeboro.com for all event flyers, registration forms and vendor/sponsor information

Any questions? Call 201-573-1800 x 521 (Please no pets at these events)

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

ON FIZZLED, EYESORE BLOCK 419 PROJECT, ‘EVERYTHING IS ON THE TABLE’

9

K of C Mother Seton Council hosts bingo Sept. 4

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

10 TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

On Thursday, Sept. 4 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., the Knights of Columbus Mother Seton Council #5427, 79 Pascack Road, will host bingo games open to the public. Proceeds will benefit charities supported by the Council. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information, contact George Toole, Grand Knight, at 201-954-5286.

Founded in 1882 by Blessed Michael McGivney, the Knights of Columbus has grown into one of the worldʼs leading charitable organizations, with 2 million members

worldwide. In 2024, Mother Seton Council contributed $53,600 to charities and awarded $5,000 in scholarships.

Looking ahead, the Council and parish community invite neighbors to join in two upcoming events: • Installation of Officers –

SALE LABOR DAY

On Thursday, Sept. 18, following a 7 p.m. Mass with Chaplain Fr. Ray Rodrigue, the Council will welcome its 2025–26 officers in a ceremony led by District Deputy Marc DePasquale. Knights, families, and friends are encouraged to attend.

Light refreshments will follow .

• OLGC Parish Picnic – On Sunday, Oct. 5, from 1 to 5 p.m., Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish will host its annual picnic at the K of C Pfliegler Pavilion and Picnic

Grove. The day will feature live music, childrenʼs activities including an inflatable bounce house, and friendly horseshoe and bocce tournaments. All parishioners, Knights, and families are welcome. Adult tickets are $35, children under 21 are free Applications for membership in the Knights of Columbus are welcome from qualified individuals.

For details, call 201-664-0422 or visit .kofc5427.com.

WESTWOOD

Step up! Cross country registration open

The WW Track and Field Association has opened registration for its Striders cross country program. The sport promotes endurance, confidence, and resilience while fostering teamwork, friendships, and a love of healthy outdoor activity.

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Fiona Smith Sutherland, the Lakeside Choraliers are a nonsectarian community choir that has entertained audiences in the Bergen/Rockland area since 1972. For more information, visit lakesidechoraliers.com.

members, and enjoy refreshments: Monday, Sept. 8 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 131 Pascack Road, Park Ridge.”

Directed by George W. Swope and accompanied by

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WestwoodFest returns Saturday, Sept. 13

Residents are invited to spend the afternoon celebrating community at the fourth annual WestwoodFest on Saturday, September 13 from 2 to 6 p.m. at Veteransʼ Memorial Park. The event is cohosted by Celebrate Westwood and the Borough of Westwood, featuring a new collaboration with the Westwood Police Department as they bring the features of their annual Emergency Services Night to this free, family-friendly event.

WestwoodFest will feature live music of the Westwood Community Band to kick off the event at 2.

Fest-goers can also anticipate inflatable attractions, opportunities to create art, and the chance to

Games, Attractions, Music & More at Westwood’s Community Celebration

sample fitness offerings from the Westwood Recreation Department and local businesses. A variety of lawn games, such as oversized chess, giant Jenga, and cornhole, will be scattered throughout the park.

Westwood non-profit organizations have been invited to set up information tables or host their own activities for fest-goers.

Organizers Lauren Letizia & RoseAnn Ciarlante tell Pascack Press they look forward to welcoming Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Westwood Girl

Scouts, Knights of Columbus Council #2188 Westwood/Hillsdale, The Crochet Flower Project, Elisabeth Maul Troop 321, Caring About the Strays (CATS), Westwood Regional Middle School PSO, Cardinal Tip Off Club, Temple Assembly #32 - International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, Westwood Recreation Department, and the Church of St. Andrew.

The Borough of Westwood will be present with information from the clerkʼs office, Police Department, Health Department, Flood Committee, and DPW. Additionally, the Westwood Volunteer Fire Department, Westwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps, and Department of Public Works will be present with information in an expanded touch-atruck style area hosted by the Westwood Police Department and featuring the Bergen County Sher-

iffʼs Department with a K-9 and Bomb Squad demo, Bergen County Prosecutorʼs Office, and Bergen County Communications.

The WPD will have a large presence with giveaways through their Community Outreach Unit, Bike Safety Rodeo in partnership with Westwood Cycle, Car Seat Installation information, equipment demos, and much more.

Local businesses include Alpha Fit Club Westwood, The Silva Cascade, Flawless Finish Power Washing, Historical Speakers for Seniors, Fire Shaper Hot Yoga, 1950s Originals, Solar Landscape, Rough Round Golf, and YellowDoor Art Studio.

Also that day, the Westwood Heritage Society will be opening the Westwood Museum at the train station and the Friends of the Westwood Library will be hosting their monthly book sale until 2.

A food court will be open

throughout the duration of Westwood Fest, featuring a selection of foods for sale from Brusterʼs Real Ice Cream, Conradʼs Confectionery, Lots of Meat Barbecue, and Maxineʼs Bakeshop.

Additional funding for WestwoodFest has been provided by Gold Sponsors Alpha Fit Club Westwood, Fire Shaper Hot Yoga, and Flawless Finish Power Washing; Silver Sponsors Flex Dance Experience, Johl & Company Insurance, Westwood Family Chiropractic, and Visions Federal Credit Union; Bronze Sponsors: Brusterʼs Real Ice Cream, Conradʼs Confectionery, Derner Construction, Historical Speakers for Seniors, and Zion Lutheran Church and Early Childhood Center.

Volunteers are still welcome.

Please direct questions to Lauren Letizia or RoseAnn Ciarlante at CelebrateWestwood@gmail.com . For more information on the activities of the day, visit celebratewestwood.org or find the group on social media.

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

WTPL: No tutoring tables at peak hours

Beginning Sept. 1, the Township of Washington Public Library will no longer permit tutoring in the building between 3 and 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, during the school year (September through June).

Library Director Laura Rifkin and Library Board President Cindy Mazanec announced the change in a notice to tutors and families who had previously reserved tutoring tables.

“This decision was not made lightly, and comes after monitoring tutor usage for more than two

CLUB NEWS Let us help promote your club or organization.

Send your news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

years. These hours are the libraryʼs busiest, and despite efforts to introduce multiple practices and policies to help guide this situation to a manageable level we have not had success,” an advisory note read.

“We hope that reaching out now allows you ample time to schedule your tutoring sessions

during the permitted hours or at other facilities that better meet your needs. Please note that with this change, you no longer need to reserve tutoring tables.”

Tutoring will still be permitted outside the restricted hours.

Questions may be directed to Library Director Laura Rifkin.

Spread the word!

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Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

Dining & Cooking Guide

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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County nixes Fisher recall bid— petition wasn’t notarized Critics cry foul, vow to press fight in Superior Court; embattled trustee exults

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

PARK RIDGE

An attorney for the Bergen County Clerkʼs Office has determined that a recall petition signed by more than 2,100 residents to remove school trustee Robert Fisher Jr. is invalid because the signature sheets were not notarized, as required by state law.

Organizers of the recall petition — led by residents Laura Clark, Mary McNamara, and Rebecca Anastos — said they would challenge the ruling, with some alleging they were misled by directions from the clerkʼs office about what was required when collecting signatures.

The committee launched the effort in May, charging that Fisher misses frequent committee meetings, lives mostly out of state, rarely attends community events, and fails to represent his constituents adequately.

Fisherʼs allies, including R-39ʼs state Sen. Holly Schepisi and Assemblyman John Azzariti, had publicly backed him throughout the recall fight, asserting the effort is politically motivated and rooted in age discrimination.

Park Ridge Board of Education trustee Robert Fisher Jr. declared victory after a recall push against him failed on technical grounds. Critics claim he’s actually a Tennessee resident and does not represent his constituents adequately.

Courtesy photo/ Pascack Press composite.

Fisherʼs attorney, Michael Collins, also filed a challenge arguing the petitions did not follow the stateʼs Uniform Recall Election Law, which requires an affidavit witnessed by a notary on each petition page.

Collins, like Fisher, was elected at age 18 to his local school board.

Adding weight to the organizersʼ complaint, Pascack Press obtained a June 24 email from Elections Division Supervisor Sabrina Taranto to organizer Laura Clark. In it, Clark specifically asked if notarization of the circulatorsʼ signature pages was required. Taranto replied: “There is no requirement for notarization when it comes to the circulatorsʼ statements and signatures.”

The email, forwarded to Pascack Press by a supporter, directly

contradicts the county counselʼs Aug. 26 determination that lack of notarization rendered the recall petition invalid. Petition leaders say they relied on this written guidance while gathering signatures.

Sabrina Taranto, in a later statement, told Pascack Press on Aug. 26, “Per statute, 19:27A-12, the decision of the recall election official may be contested, within 10 business days, by filing an action in the Superior Court, which shall hear the matter on an expedited basis and issue an order or determination as soon as possible after filing of the action.”

The determination by county counsel Paul Kaufman, released Aug. 26, came as a shock to petition organizers and supporters,

See FISHER on page 324

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Clean sweep, and inspiration, at Sapienza Gardens

The Environment CSP group of the Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club recently toured Sapienza Gardens, enjoying the well-marked trails while learning about the gardens and their natural features. Along the way, members collected trash and other debris to help keep the area clean.

The group has also partnered

with the gardensʼ volunteers to install rain barrels, which collect precipitation to support irrigation in the planted areas.

Sapienza Gardens was dedicated in honor of Dr. Barbara Sapienza, former principal of Pascack Valley High School. The three-acre facility is maintained by volunteers to promote environ-

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A fond farewell to McGuire, who gave much to Emerson

A

we will miss Emerson, my chilHall from the wrecking ball.

“Emerson is a better commu- dren and myself, and Iʼll always nity for your service and on behalf love Emerson; it will always be EMERSON of our 7,251 residents, thank you, our home.” we will miss you, my friend,” said A place in local history LONGTIME councilwoman the mayor.

In 2022, Mayor Danielle who resigned effective Noting she had lived in EmerAug. 31 was recognized son for 19 years, and served on DiPaola and many others delightfor her commitment to the town at council for seven years, McGuire ed in an observation at the 118th the Aug. 19 Borough Council spoke, her voice choked with Annual Reorganization Meeting meeting. emotion. “Itʼs been a great experi- where new council members Jill McGuire, who served ence. This place is far more than a were sworn in following 2021 nearly seven years on council, and place to live. Itʼs definitely home victories.

“Thereʼs one thing I would as volunteer and chair of the local and the ʻfamily townʼ,” McGuire historic preservation committee said, noting they did not know of like to point out this evening, for two years, was honored by the the communityʼs ʻfamily townʼ which is a historic moment in the mayor and council with a plaque moniker before moving here. She Borough of Emerson: For the and flowers for her public service. added, “for our family, it will first time in history, there are four women who were elected by the McGuire resigned in an Aug. always be the ʻfamily townʼ.”

8 letter, citing a pending move She said in Emerson she got voters of Emerson sitting on the from the area. to volunteer at school events, with governing body,” said DiPaola — She served most lately as liaiParents For Athletes, and on the including herself in that list.

DiPaola said, “In 2018 son to the school board and Shade Historic Preservation Committee.

Tree Commission and a liaison to She said the preservation Emerson made history by electTechnology/Social Media, Auxilcommittee “was very close to my ing its first female mayor. In iary Police, and Office of Emerheart” where she met like-minded 2019 for the first time, Emerson gency Management.

Emersonians “who believed that elected two women [then-CounAccording to state law, three this place [Borough Hall], this cil President Jill McGuire and member Nicole Argenzia] at the nominees will come from the building, matters.”

Republican county committee McGuire helped push for same time to the council. And … within 15 days of her vacancy, and Borough Hallʼs preservation due in 2021 the voters of Emerson within 30 days, the council must to a historic Works Project Admin- elected the fourth female member Borough of Emerson photo, select one of the nominees. Should istration mural painted long ago [Kelly Moore] to the governing body, and here we are today.” the council fail to select a new Sayers, and Michael Timmerman. knew “there was no better choice inside the building.

“Iʼm honored to stand along- than Jill to serve on the council councilor, then the Republican “Thereʼs a lot of beautiful county committee can choose a side you as we reflect on your because of her integrity, courage places in Emerson and we have to TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON many years of service to Emer- and unwavering commitment to take care of them. Itʼs part of our replacement.

McGuireʼs term ends Dec. 31. son,” Mayor Danielle DiPaola told Emerson.” history,” she said.

DiPaola said she had “nothShe was not running for reelec- McGuire during a short ceremony She also worked on efforts to ing but the utmost respect” for save the 250-year-old DeBaun tion. Serving on the council are its honoring her at the meeting.

DiPaola, filled with evident McGuire, and thanked her for House, though that building was president, Nicole Argenzia, and emotion, told McGuire that when being in the audience for years deemed structurally unsound, with members Megan Ciolino, Jill McGuire, Ashley Rice, Ashley she was elected mayor, the council before she joined the council, and mold and water damage, and taken speaking up and encouraging down to make way for four affordDiPaola when DiPaola was a lone able apartments for veterans. voice on the Borough Council She said serving on the coun[pushing against the now-long- cil “has been a great honor” and idled, and litigation-trussed, noted that councilmembers and UR ADY OF ERCY Emerson Station mixed-use proj- the mayor, “all have the same ect on Kinderkamack between commitment to Emerson like I ATHOLIC HURCH Lincoln and Linwood, for exam- do.” She said being on the council ple. — Ed.].

TWO FREMONT AVENUE “deepened my connection to the She said McGuire had always community and gave me the PARK RIDGE, NEW JERSEY 07656 been for government transparency opportunity to give back.” and against overdevelopment, and She said she will look back fought hard on the preservation on her time in Emerson “with The Westwood Regional High committee to preserve Borough pride and definite fondness and School Class of 1980 is gearing up for its 45th reunion with a full day of celebration set for Saturday, Sept. 20.

The festivities begin with a 1:30 p.m. tour of the high school, where classmates will meet at the main entrance to walk the halls they once roamed. The official reunion follows (no music) from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 79 Pascack Road in Washington Township.

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

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

Tickets are $75 per person, with payment requested by Sept. 1.

Venmo payments can be sent to (201) 264-6263.

Checks should be made out to John Tesoriero and mailed to: John Tesoriero RECEIVE $ 45 Church St. Apt D-1 OVER 50 GRAMS OF GOLD WITH THIS AD Montclair, NJ 07042 Rectory: 201-391-5315 • Religious Ed: 201-391-3590 For more information, email Academy: 201-391-3838 jbartolophoto@gmail.com.

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RIDGEWOOD

Ridgewood Fall Craft & Art Street Fair Sept. 14

The Ridgewood Fall Craft & Art Street Fair returns Sunday, Sept. 14, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. along East Ridgewood Avenue.

and peppers, gyros, empanadas, steak sandwiches, kebabs, desserts, and more.

For younger visitors, a dedicated childrenʼs area will offer

inflatables, face painting, games, and kid-friendly activities. Live music near the park will add to the festive atmosphere.

The Ridgewood Fall Craft &

Westwood mayor, council to meet Sept. 2

The Westwood Mayor and Council will hold their next work session on Tuesday, Sept. 2 at Borough Hall, 101 Washington Ave. The evening will begin with a closed session at 7 p.m. to discuss professional services matters, followed by the regular public meeting at 7:30.

The meeting is expected to cover a wide range of business affecting residents, from community events and infrastructure to public safety and staffing. Officials will first consider approval of minutes from the Aug. 19 session before hearing the borough engineerʼs biweekly report.

Items up for discussion include the upcoming Scarecrow Fest fundraiser, the 2026 borough holiday and meeting schedules, and proposed

PARK RIDGE

Park Ridge Police, DQ Back to Scoop Night Sept. 16

The Park Ridge Police Department invites the community to “Back to Scoop Night,” a family-friendly event hosted by the Park Ridge Dairy Queen on Tuesday, Sept. 16 from 6–8 p.m. at 176 Kinderkamack Road.

Residents of all ages are encouraged to stop by and enjoy an evening of treats and activities while getting to know their local officers.

Highlights include: • A free ice cream cone for every guest, courtesy of Dairy Queen • Bounce house fun for kids • Music and a photo booth to capture memories with family, friends, and officers “Back to Scoop Night” is designed to strengthen community connections in a relaxed and fun setting. Officers will be on hand to chat with residents, answer questions, and share safety information—all while serving up cones and smiles.

changes to the tree ordinance, specifically regarding historical designations and the width of trees that would require permits for removal.

Councilmembers will also review the 2026 Road Program through Vialytics, a request for handicapped parking at 536 Fourth Ave., updates on grab-and-go loading zones, and the boroughʼs minor construction modification application process.

The council will then move to ordinances and a series of resolutions slated for the consent agenda. Among the most notable: • Public safety staffing: Appointment of three Special Law Enforcement Officers (Class III) for the Westwood Police Department.

• Community programming: Authorizations for alcohol service at a murder mystery event hosted by the

library and a poker night at the firehouse.

• Public works and enforcement: Hiring of a new Department of Public Works laborer and a parking enforcement officer.

• Planning and development: Engagement of Burgis Associates for professional planning services tied to the 2025 CBD/SPE land use amendment review.

• Fiscal items: A resolution to increase the boroughʼs public bidding threshold, along with acceptance of funds from the National Opioid Settlement.

Also included are routine financial approvals, such as the bill list and statement of cash. These are usually fun meetings. Check it out.

As always, the agenda is subject to change.

—Staff writer John Snyder

Ridgewood Fall Craft & Art Street Festival 200 Exhibitors with Arts & Crafts, Festival Foods, Large Kids Zone, Inflatables & Games, All Day Music.

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WESTWOOD

WW Senior Fellowship’s warm welcome: Sept. 9

After a summer off, the Westwood Senior Fellowship invites members to its fall meeting, Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 11:30 a.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. Weʼre told “Coffee and cake will be served, and Rosemarie Grill will demonstrate the lovely art of picture

frame decorating. Everybody gets one to keep.”

Additional club notes: • Sign up for the Italian Festival, Sept. 20.

• Save the date fo the annual sandwich and salad luncheon, Tuesday, Oct. 14.

Club president Mary Cerrati says, “See you there!”

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Advertisement Mark your calendars! The Ridgewood Fall Craft & Art Street Fair returns on Sunday, Sept. 14, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Ridgewood along East Ridgewood Avenue.

Each year, thousands of visitors from near and far enjoy this lively, festive celebration. More than 200 exhibitors from four states will showcase an array of arts, crafts, and photography.

Shoppers can discover one-of-akind, hand-crafted items—from jewelry, pottery, and mixed media to woodwork, garden décor, apparel, and more.

Itʼs the perfect chance to find a unique gift or treat yourself to something special.

A large food court in front of the park will feature festival favorites including lobster, sausage

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

18

W

When to claim your Social Security benefits?

HEN IT

comes t o Social Security and retirement, you may have conflicting viewpoints: On one side, you may ERIC KOHLMEIER 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 fulltime. 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-yearold 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 any planned 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 • Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2022 – 2025 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

19

WESTWOOD The Borough of Westwood and Bergen County Players are teaming up to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Carole Kingʼs iconic album Tapestry with “Carole King Wannabe Karaoke Night in the Park” on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Veteransʼ Park, 50 Madison Ave. The event will transform the historic park lawn into an outdoor music festival, where participants can take the stage and

Department sponsors special events to promote appreciation of local parks and strengthen community spirit.

More information can be found at westwoodnj.gov.

WESTWOOD A highlight will be a sneak-peek performance from the cast of BCP’s upcoming production of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.

New York City’s Hadar Baron is Carole King in BCP’s Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.

Tapestry/Courtesy sing their favorite Carole King song or simply relax on blankets with friends and family.

A special highlight will be a sneak-peek performance from the cast of BCPʼs upcoming pro-

duction of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.

“All those who participate will be entered into a drawing for free tickets to a show during BCPʼs 2025–26 season,” organizers said.

BCP will donate a portion of its 2025–2026 seasonʼs proceeds to the Joanʼs Joy Foundation of Hillsdale. The Foundation honors the memory of 7-year-old Girl Scout Joan Angela DʼAlessandro.

Revered as one of the greatest albums of all time, Tapestry topped charts in 1971 and cemented Kingʼs place as a singer-songwriter legend with enduring hits such as Youʼve Got a Friend, I Feel the Earth Move, and So Far Away.

BCPʼs season kicks off in

September with the area premiere of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, directed by Alyson Cohn with musical direction by Steve Bell and featuring New York City–based Hadar Baron as Carole King.

Performances will run at the Little Firehouse Theatre in Oradell. More information and tickets are available at bcplayers.org or by calling 201-2614200. The Westwood Recreation

St. Andrew’s 50+ Club Welcome Back Social

St. Andrewʼs 50+ Clubʼs annual Welcome Back Social is set for Wednesday, Sept. 3 at 1 p.m. in the gym. Organizers say, “Please join us to enjoy an ʻAfternoon at the Track” that will include pizza and refreshments.

New members are always welcome. For more informtion call Elaine at 201-664-7037.

— Via Hilda Gonzalez

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TO PLACE YOUR AD Call 201.664.2105 fax 201.664.2109 or e-mail us at pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Carole King karaoke Sept. 6 in Veterans’ Park

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

20

DePiero:

our hayrides, walked through our fields pumpkin picking, purchased our produce, shopped our greenhouses, ate at our bakery and supported our familyʼs dream,” they said.

“This farm is more than just a business; it has been the heart of our family… It has been the setting for countless memories—from the first harvest by our ancestors in 1924 to the children who visited every fall.

We are so proud of the work we have done and the legacy we have built together with all of you.”

The family said the decision to close “was not an easy one. It was a life choice made after much consideration, influenced by the evolving nature of the industry and the rising

FROM PAGE 1

costs of operation. Ultimately, it is time for us to close this chapter and embrace a new beginning with our own families.”

Patrons were invited to “join us for one last farm experience to celebrate our history and make a final memory… before we close on Thursday, Aug. 28.”

A farewell years in the making The announcement followed years of struggle. In 2022, longtime farmer Glen DePiero described to Pascack Press reporter Michael Olohan the toll of rising costs, declining wholesale markets, and deer that destroyed thousands of

DePiero’s Farm closed for good on Nov. 1, 2015. The farmstand, Aug. 28, 2025, marking 100 years of hard work and loving service. All photos on this page are by Susan McTigue/file.

Yo-Yo the donkey and his friend Caesar the steer never went hungry at the farm.

Three generations of the Janco family returned for one last Saturday morning breakfast at DePiero’s Country Farm.

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dollarsʼ worth of crops in a single night. Heating the greenhouses alone had cost $46,000 in one year.

The haunted hayrides and curbside pandemic pickup helped at the margins, but the math no longer worked. “I cannot work any more hours,” Glen said.

A decade earlier, the family had sold 27 acres for the Wegmansanchored Shoppes at DePiero Farm.

What remained was just 12 acres — two under glass — hemmed in by development. Still, the farm endured until its centennial, kept alive by stubborn labor and loyal customers.

That stubbornness had been a family trait. In 2015, Susan McTigue profiled the DePieros in these pages as they prepared to downsize. Patriarch Ed DePiero, who once cleared land by hand and bought parcels one deed at a time, recalled how his father promised him a piece of ground when he was a boy. Over the decades, the family grew to own hundreds of acres between Montvale and New Paltz, N.Y. The farm was not just land but people. Employees like Jaime Medina, who worked in produce for nearly three decades, became like family. When his home burned down, the DePieros gave him a house on the property.

Lisa Bickel, who ran the nursery for 22 years, said she had missed countless holidays with family in the Midwest. Others, like high schoolers selling pies in the bakery, remembered the farm as a first job and rite of passage.

Even the animals were part of the story. Yo-Yo the donkey and Caesar the steer, inseparable companions, were eventually rehomed to a sanctuary in New York.

Preserving the land This time, though, Montvale stepped in. The borough purchased 8.4 acres at Summit and Craig avenues for $5.15 million, promising to keep it farmland. Mayor Michael Ghassali said the land will host a pick-your-own strawberry patch, a community garden, and a professionally operated farm stand.

Another 6.5 acres went to Montvale Landscaping.

“This isnʼt just a transaction,” the mayor said. “Itʼs a testament to our shared values and vision for the

future.”

Ghassali also linked the purchase to a broader fight that has put Montvale on a statewide stage.

Warning against “massive overdevelopment” tied to state housing mandates, he cast the preserved farmland as Montvaleʼs answer: “My counter to the developersbacked Fair Share Housing Center?

Our own residents-backed Fair Share Farming Center.”

A celebration On Saturday, Oct. 18, from noon to 3 p.m., the borough will host Town Day at the Farm with hay rides, pumpkins, a petting zoo, music, and barbecue. “The farm will remain a farm and we will all get to enjoy it for generations to come,” Ghassali announced on behalf of the governing body.

The wider story For the DePiero family, the closure is a farewell after four generations. For Montvale, it is a new chapter. Both sides agree: the memories, and the land itself, will endure.

That outcome is not assured everywhere. In nearby Woodcliff Lake, Van Riperʼs Farm was sold in 1994 and became a supermarket, now Whole Foods. Ticeʼs Farm followed in 1997, redeveloped into Ticeʼs Corner Marketplace. No trace remains of their orchards or pump-

Glen DiPiero in 2015 prepares his famous powdered donuts. Susan McTigue photo. kin patches.

If you go Town Day at the Farm • When: Saturday, Oct. 18, noon–3 p.m.

• Where: The Farm on Craig Road • Activities: BBQ food, music, line dancing, free pumpkins, hay rides, petting zoo • Who: Free for Montvale taxpayers, residents, business owners, employees, and their families

mer nursing home to advise them of the new property development plans.

He explained that the applicant is seeking an extension of a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) permit first approved in September 2020, which is set to expire after five years. The applicant has also made revisions to the project since that approval.

Atkinson emphasized that even if NJDEP grants an extension, it does not affect any local reviews or hearings still required. He said the application submitted for development of the 3.5-acre Armenian site was deemed incomplete by board professionals, with information still needed before a hearing can be scheduled.

He noted the application could technically be heard without an NJDEP extension, but warned that if the Land Use Board requires revisions, the applicant may need to FROM PAGE 1

The Armenian Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, at 70 Main St., closed in April 2021 after 83 years in Emerson. Its remaining residents were transferred to other facilities.

John Snyder photo.

reapply to NJDEP for additional approvals.

“All local approvals are contingent upon the applicant getting other needed permits from NJDEP,” Atkinson said, adding that there has

been “lots of back and forth with the applicant” since early 2025, when the proposal was first submitted.

Atkinson said whether or not a permit extension is granted by

EMERSON

POP! on out for a good cause

Whether you like it buttery, cheesy, or sweet, Emerson Cub Scout Pack 67 has you covered.

The scouts are once again rolling out their annual popcorn fundraiser, inviting neighbors to snack for a cause.

Proceeds help fund Pack 67ʼs activities, from camping trips and community service projects to badges and leadership development.

Credit cards are preferred, making it easy to support the scouts while stocking up on everyoneʼs favorite crunchy treat.

Upcoming sales: • Sunday, Sept. 7, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. — Stop & Shop (Dumont)

Timeline: Armenian Nursing Home Site • April 2021 — Armenian Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center closes after 83 years in Emerson. Remaining residents are transferred elsewhere.

• January 2023 — Mayor Danielle DiPaola says she expects owners to submit plans for a state-of-the-art facility and meet with neighbors. Neither happens.

• Early 2025 — Development proposal first submitted to the Emerson Land Use Board.

• Aug. 19, 2025 — Borough Engineer David Atkinson reports the application is still incomplete, with information missing before it can be scheduled for hearing.

• Fall 2025 (expected) — Revised application could come before the Land Use Board. All local approvals remain contingent on required NJDEP permits.

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• Saturday, Sept. 20, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. — Stop & Shop (Tenafly) • Sunday, Sept. 21, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. — Stop & Shop (Tenafly) • Saturday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. — Loweʼs (Paramus) (The scouts sold both days

last weekend at the Emerson Stop & Shop.)

So next time you see the scouts outside your local store, pop on over—your purchase helps build skills, friendships, adventures, and future entrepreneurs and other leaders.

Residential & Commercial

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RIVER VALE Back by popular demand, Fitness with Friends is teaming up with River Vale Recreation to host a special “Schoolʼs Out Camp” just before the new school year begins. The program will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 2, and Wednesday, Sept. 3 at Mark Lane Field, running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day.

Open to children in grades K–5, the camp is designed to keep kids active, social, and engaged during those last days of summer break. Participants can register for one or both days ($60 for one day, $110 for two).

A wide range of activities is planned, including Gaga ball, kickball, soccer, field games, arts and crafts, jewelry making, tum-

residents were transferred to other 21 facilities.

Since then, the property has sat unoccupied, fueling speculation among residents about the ownerʼs plans.

Local officials, speaking on background, said last year they anticipated an application for a new assisted living facility, possibly a “continuum of care” development with rehabilitation, assisted living, nursing, and memory care services.

In January 2023, Mayor Danielle DiPaola told Pascack Press she believed the owners would soon submit plans for a state-of-the-art facility and meet with nearby neighbors to discuss the proposal.

Neither prediction came to pass.

From the outside, the 3.5acre property — which formerly housed 85 beds — still appears well maintained, with common areas and grounds ready for use.

Efforts to reach the owners for comment were not returned by press time.

For now, residents and passersby continue to wonder what future lies ahead for one of Emersonʼs most prominent properties.

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Center:

NJDEP is “irrelevant” to the boardʼs review.

The Armenian Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, at 70 Main St., closed in April 2021 after 83 years in Emerson. Its remaining

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22

Educators alarmed on timing of new state tests

New Jersey is rolling out new adaptive statewide assessments this school year, but some school leaders say the timeline feels rushed and raises questions

about whether districts will be ready.

The Department of Education announced that the New Jersey Student Learning Assess-

ments (NJSLA-Adaptive) in English language arts and mathematics will be given to students in grades 3 through high school, and the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA-Adaptive) will be administered to juniors.

Field testing is set for Oct. 6–10 for the NJGPA-Adaptive and Oct. 27–Nov. 14 for the NJSLA-Adaptive. Full administration will follow in spring 2026. The stateʼs science exam will not change.

Adaptive tests automatically adjust question difficulty based on student responses, with officials saying the format should provide more precise results and reduce test anxiety.

But superintendents told NJ Spotlight News, powered by NJ PBS, that the transition has come too quickly.

“I think the move [to an adaptive test] could be a positive thing,” said Joan Mast, superintendent in Scotch Plains-Fanwood. “The problem is itʼs just so fast and a surprise.” [“Launch of NJʼs new standardized tests rushed, school leaders say” by Hannah Gross at NJ Spotlight

News, Aug. 26, 2025.]

Rachel Goldberg, superintendent of Springfield Public Schools, said: “Iʼm deeply concerned we would do such a rushed pilot and implementation of a whole new testing system.

Weʼre testing a brand-new assessment that nobodyʼs seen and six months later using that as an accountability mechanism.”

While school administrators are raising alarms, the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), the stateʼs largest teachersʼ union, has not issued a public statement on the new assessments. NJEA does maintain a dated (2019) page on “High Stakes Testing News” that includes “More testing does not equal higher standards” and “NJEA commends proposed reduction in state testing.”

State response The DOE has contracted with Cambium Assessments, which runs testing programs in nearly 30 states. Officials said Cambium administered more than 130 million online tests nationwide last year, nearly 40 million of which were adaptive.

MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

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“While the approach is new in New Jersey, the test items will be aligned to New Jersey Student Learning Standards, will be administered in the same spring testing window, and will continue to serve the same purpose: assessing learning, guiding instruction, and ensuring every student is on track for success,” DOE spokesperson Mike Yaple said.

Gov. Phil Murphyʼs office acknowledged the compressed schedule. “We appreciate that school districts will have to adjust quickly to the new exam following a procurement process that was drawn out by a now resolved bid challenge, which previously hampered the Stateʼs ability to share details,” said spokesperson Maggie Garbarino, in comments to NJ Spotlight News.

“Efforts to train staff and compile additional resources for schools are currently underway, and the Department will stay in constant communication with educators throughout this transition.”

Looking ahead Some administrators told NJ Spotlight News they hope Cambium will provide faster turnaround on test results, enabling teachers to make better use of the data. Englewood Superintendent Marnie Hazelton said her districtʼs prior experience with adaptive testing showed students adjusted quickly and families became comfortable with the reports.

—Staff report

A Teacher of Teachers Mallya is a frequent presenter at local and national conferences, sharing insights on science instruction, curriculum development, and student empowerment.

Colleagues and students alike describe her as a teacher who blends rigor with encouragement, and who never loses sight of the individual student in front of her.

Her recognition as Bergen County Teacher of the Year underscores what her students already know: that she brings both expertise and heart to the classroom.

As NJEA President Sean Spiller noted of all 21 honorees, “These awardees exemplify the very best our schools have to offer, and I am immensely grateful for the contributions of these excep-

FROM PAGE 1

tion that we see in classrooms in school districts across New Jersey.”

And the Pascack Valley Regional High School District, serving families in Hillsdale, River Vale, Montvale, and Woodcliff Lake, posted, “Dr. Mallyaʼs passion for teaching, innovative approach to learning, and unwavering dedication to her students embody the very best of PVRHSD. This honor is a testament to her

tional educators to our school communities.”

The next step for Mallya and her fellow County Teachers of the Year will be serving as ambassadors for the profession statewide. From their ranks, one educator will be chosen as New Jersey State Teacher of the Year and go on to compete nationally.

For her students at Pascack Hills, however, the award is simply a public acknowledgment of what they experience daily: a teacher whose passion for science is matched only by her passion for seeing them succeed.

The 2024–2025 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year is Stefanie Lachenauer, a civics and mindfulness teacher at Montgomery Upper Middle School in Somerset County.

We run milestones!

The New Jersey Department of Education recognized A a r t i M a l l y a , naming the Pascack Hills High School educator the 2025–2026 Bergen County Teacher of the Year. Mallya was honored alongside 20 other County Teachers of the Year at a ceremony at The College of New Jersey in Ewing. Courtesy photos. remarkable impact both inside and outside the classroom.”

A Career of Leadership and Connection Mallya has spent more than 25 years in education, combining scholarly expertise with hands-on mentorship. For 13 years she served as District Supervisor of Science and Technology Education in the Pascack Valley Regional High School District before choosing to return to the classroom to reconnect directly with students.

Her academic credentials are formidable: she earned a doctorate from Columbia University, where she wrote her dissertation on expanding science learning beyond the classroom and co-authored an inquiry-based science and nutrition curriculum. Before entering education, she worked as a researcher in oncology and cardiovascular pharmacology.

At Pascack Hills, she teaches AP Biology, Honors Research in Molecular Genetics, and freshman biology. Her Research in Molecular Genetics course, offered in collaboration with the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University, allows students to con-

duct original research and present ularly organizes field trips, their findings at the North Jersey research projects, and even conserInternational Science and Engi- vation trips to Costa Rica.

She also mentors aspiring neering Qualifying Fair. teachers as a Clinical Faculty Member at Montclair State Mentorship and Inspiration Beyond the lab bench and the University, where she helps train classroom, Mallyaʼs influence the next generation of educators. reaches across the school commu- As a certified wellness and life nity. She advises the Science coach, she balances academic rigor National Honor Society, Medical with a holistic concern for her stuClub, and Research Club, and reg- dentsʼ well-being.

Let us announce your achievements.

Submissions to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Teacher:

Sc h ool News

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

DR. KAPLAN: How to Tame Anxiety — Naturally

If youʼve ever Googled “how to stop anxiety,” youʼve probably landed in one of two places: a meditation app promising enlightenment DR. ERIC KAPLAN, in seven minutes a day, or a pharDC, KAPLAN macy aisle lined BRAIN & BODY

with bottles whispering about instant calm. But hereʼs the truth: anxiety is not a Xanax deficiency.

Anti-anxiety prescriptions are handed out like Halloween candy. According to the CDC, nearly 16% of American adults take some form of psychiatric medication, with benzodiazepines leading the way. These pills might take the edge off in the moment but they can come

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with side effects worse than the original anxiety—addiction, memory loss, reduced brain function, even dementia. Itʼs like calling the fire department for a kitchen flare-up and ending up with your entire house flooded.

Iʼm not against medicine— there are cases where itʼs neces-

Movement sary. But when prescriptions You donʼt need a treadmill become the default solution for everyday stress, sleepless nights, torture session to get results. or racing thoughts, we have a Walking, dancing, biking, swimproblem. The healthiest people in ming—anything that gets blood the world arenʼt the ones with the flowing to the brain can reduce fullest medicine cabinets. Theyʼre anxiety. Five minutes of aerobic the ones whoʼve built lifestyles movement can start calming symptoms. that keep them healthy.

And the side effects? Better Here are some of the best, most overlooked natural solu- sleep, better posture, and more energy to actually enjoy life. tions:

Food Oxygen Sugar, caffeine, processed The first and most underrated solution is oxygen. Deep breath- snacks, chemical dyes—theyʼre ing exercises can lower cortisol anxiety triggers disguised as levels by up to 20% in just min- treats. Diets high in refined sugar utes. Oxygen is like a free anti- increase the risk of anxiety and anxiety medication—no co-pay, depression by nearly 23%. no side effects. Spend five min- Whole foods—nuts, seeds, lean utes each morning practicing proteins, vegetables—tell your slow, belly-deep breaths and feel brain a very different story.

Your gut and brain are in your nervous system relax like a constant communication, and balloon slowly deflating. your gut never lies.

Sunlight Sleep Itʼs not just for golden-hour Skipping sleep doesnʼt just photos. At least 20 minutes of natural sunlight a day boosts vitamin make you cranky—it tricks your D, which directly supports sero- brain into permanent alarm tonin, your feel-good neurotrans- mode. The APA reports people mitter. Low vitamin D is linked to getting fewer than seven hours a higher rates of depression and night are 30% more likely to anxiety. You canʼt Netflix your report anxiety. Sleep is your way out of anxiety, but you cer- brainʼs nightly oil change.

Donʼt run it into the ground. tainly can sunlight your way out of it.

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Physical changes and vision loss with age intermediate AMD may not notice changes. When symptoms appear, they can include mild central blurriness or difficulty seeing in dim light.

Late-stage AMD may cause straight lines to look wavy or crooked, and blurriness near the center of vision can expand into blank spots. Colors may seem duller and low-light vision can worsen.

Adults over 55 are most like-

Physical changes are a normal part of aging. Gray hair and less elastic skin that leads to wrinkles are among the most visible signs, but many older adults also notice their vision isnʼt what it once was.

Declining vision can stem from various causes. One of the most common among seniors is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Learning about AMD can help individuals understand the disease and prepare to manage it if it develops.

What is AMD? The National Eye Institute (NEI) identifies AMD as the leading cause of vision loss among older adults. Johns Hopkins Medicine further notes that age is the most frequent cause of severe eyesight loss in people over 50.

AMD occurs when aging damages the macula, the portion of the eye that controls sharp, straight-ahead vision. This results in blurred central vision.

What happens in AMD? Because AMD affects the macula, it blurs central vision.

Individuals may struggle to recognize faces, read, drive, or per-

KAPLAN: Connection Loneliness is as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day—thatʼs Harvard Medical School talking. Family, friends, volunteering—connection rewires the brain for calm, safety, and resilience.

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

The Kaplan Brain & Body Approach Anxiety is real, but so are the solutions. Weʼve been sold the idea that health comes in pill bottles, when in reality, it comes from the choices we make every day.

At Kaplan Brain & Body, we

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Send news tips,letters, and announcements to

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ly to develop AMD. Risk is also higher for those with a family history of the disease, Caucasians, and smokers.

Lifestyle choices can make a difference. Quitting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol, and eating a diet rich in leafy greens and fish may help lower the risk.

More information about AMD is available at nei.nih.gov.

PUBLIC NOTICE

AMD happens very slowly in some people and faster in others. Some people may not recognize they have vision loss even when they already have early AMD.

form close-up tasks such as cooking or household repairs.

Are all cases the same?

AMD progresses differently from person to person. Some individuals may develop it slowly without realizing they are losing vision, while others may notice changes quickly.

There are two types of AMD: • Dry AMD: The most common type, occurring as the macula thins with age. It progresses

help people rewire their brains and bodies for calm, clarity, and focus. This month, weʼre offering a qEEG Brain Map for just $21 (normally $600). This cuttingedge, non-invasive test shows exactly how your brain is wired for stress, anxiety, and focus—so we can build a personalized, natural plan for healing.

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slowly in three stages—early, intermediate, and late.

• Wet AMD: A less common but more serious type that usually causes faster vision loss. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow at the back of the eye and damage the macula. Wet AMD is treatable.

Does AMD produce symptoms?

Symptoms depend on the stage. Early dry AMD typically causes none, and even some with

tune into my radio show, Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan, DC, every Saturday at 8 a.m. on AM 970 and at 2 p.m. on WOR 710 AM. Because the best prescription for anxiety isnʼt in a bottle—itʼs in your brain.

Kaplan Brain & Body: Function Better, Feel Better, Live Better! NY: 212-620-8121 | Emerson: 201-261-2150.

Pursuant to NJAC 7:30 (NJDEP Pesticide Control Regulations), Veolia Water NJ may apply algaecide to the Oradell, Lake Tappan and Woodcliff Lake Reservoirs. In order to control algal populations, using any of the following products; Hydrogen Peroxide as Greenclean Liquid 5.0 (EPA# 70299-19) copper sulfate, as Quimag Quimicos Aguila Copper Sulfate Crystal (EPA Reg. No. 73385-1) or EarthTec (EPA Reg. No. 64962-1), from April 1st 2025 to October 1st, treatments will be applied by boat on an as- needed basis.

Applications are conducted under the supervision of Veolia employee, Matthew Cerami Watershed Manager, NJDEP Pesticide Applicator License No. 63286B. For further information (regarding public safety and exact treatment dates), please contact Matthew Cerami, 200 Lake Shore Drive, Haworth NJ 07641 (Ph: 973-508-2759).

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

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

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

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

26

Health, Wellness &Fitness Guide

NexStep Health Launches Physician-Led Home Health in Bergen County

Simplifying healthcare navigation for families by integrating home health aides, house calls, and care coordination under one roof

Advertisement Families in Northern New Jersey have access to some of the nationʼs top-ranked health systems and world-class specialists.

While this creates opportunities for exceptional care, navigating multiple providers, appointments, and medical records can be overwhelming.

Older adults often see seven or more different physicians each year, and families frequently struggle to coordinate across fragmented systems.

NexStep Health provides physician-led concierge home health in Bergen County — integrating home health aides, house calls, and care coordination for seamless, high-quality care at home. Learn more at NexStepHealth.com.

For Dr. Olan Soremekun, founder of NexStep Health, the

gaps became clear after more than 20 years in clinical practice. A

graduate of Columbia Universityʼs College of Physicians and Surgeons and a Harvard-trained emergency medicine physician, Dr. Soremekun saw firsthand how even patients receiving excellent care can fall through the cracks.

“Even in the best hospitals, families can get lost in the shuffle,” said Dr. Soremekun.

“Patients often bounce between specialists and end up in the emergency department, facing long waits for diagnostics and treatment that could safely be delivered at home. That inefficiency takes a real toll — on patients, caregivers, and the system.”

NexStep Health was created to change that. The physician-led concierge home health model combines certified home health

aides, in-home physician visits, and care coordination under one roof. By bringing diagnostics, ECGs, and treatment for common conditions into the home, NexStep Health helps families avoid unnecessary ER visits and manage care more seamlessly.

“With NexStep, families still have access to the expertise of top specialists and health systems — but we oversee the bigger picture, coordinate care, and deliver what can be done safely at home,” Dr. Sore mekun added.

NexStep Health is now serving families across Northern New Jersey.

For more information, visit NexStepHealth.com or call 551444-6300.

Who’s Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits?

SSDI, but around two-thirds of them are denied, because most applicants fail to prove that theyʼre disabled and canʼt work. Here are some steps you can take that can help improve your odds.

Dear Savvy Senior, What do I need to do to get disability benefits from Social Security?

Iʼm 60 and have a medical condition that doesnʼt allow me to work at my job anymore; Iʼve read that getting disability benefits is very difficult.

— Need Help Dear Need, Getting Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI) when youʼre unable to work can indeed be challenging. Each year, approxi-

mately 2 million people apply for

Are You Disabled?

The first thing you need to find out is if your health condition qualifies you for Social Security disability benefits.

You generally will be eligible only if you have a physical or mental impairment severe enough that it

prevents you from working in your current, or past line of work, for at least a year.

There is no such thing as a partial disability benefit. If youʼre fit enough to work part-time, and youʼre earning more than $1,620 ($2,700 if youʼre blind) a month on average in 2025, your application will be denied. But, if youʼre not working or are working but earning below those limits, your application may be considered.

Your skills, education and work experience are factors too. Your application will be denied if your work history suggests that you could perform a less physically demanding job that your disability does not prevent you from doing.

To help you determine if youʼre eligible, use the SSA Benefit EligiTool at bility Screening SSAbest.benefits.gov.

How to Apply If you believe you have a claim, your next step is to gather up your personal, financial and medical information so you can be prepared and organized for the application process.

You can apply either online at SSA.gov/disability or call 800-7721213 to make an appointment to apply at your local Social Security office, or to set up an appointment for someone to take your claim over the phone.

The whole process lasts about an hour. If you schedule an appointment, a “Disability Starter Kit” that will help you get ready for your interview will be mailed to you. If you apply online, the kit is available at SSA.gov/disability/disability_starter_kits.htm.

It takes six to eight months from the initial application to receive either an award or denial of benefits. The only exception is if you have a chron-

ic illness that qualifies you for a “compassionate allowance” (see S S A . g ov / c o m p a s s i o n a t e a l lowances), which fast tracks cases within weeks.

If Social Security denies your initial application, you can appeal the decision, and youʼll be happy to know that roughly half of all cases that go through a round or two of appeals end with benefits being awarded. But the bad news is, with a huge backlog of people waiting, it can take another eight to 10 months or longer to appeal the decision, and another 15 months to get a hearing if reconsideration is denied.

Get Help You can hire a representative to help you with your Social Security disability claim. By law, representatives can charge only 25 percent of past-due benefits up to a maximum of $9,200 if they win your case.

Itʼs probably worth hiring someone at the start of the application process if your disability is something difficult to prove such as chronic pain. If, however, your disability is obvious, it might be worth initially working without a representative to avoid paying the fee. You can always hire a representative later if your initial application and first appeal are denied.

To find a representative, check with the National Organization of Social Security Claimantsʼ Representatives (nosscr.org) or National Association of Disability Representatives (nadr.org). Or, if youʼre lowincome, contact the Legal Services Corporation (lsc.gov/find-legal-aid) for free assistance.

Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.

27

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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A smartly planned kitchen turns out right After Labor

The kitchen is often the busiest room in the house. Itʼs where meals are prepared, cooked, and often eaten—but itʼs also where kids do homework, bills get paid, and families catch up at the end of the day.

With so much happening in one room, organization and functionality can make all the difference.

Homeowners are already investing heavily in kitchen spaces. According to Harvardʼs Joint Center for Housing Studies, spending on home improvements rose from $328 billion in 2019 to $472 billion in 2022, with kitchens topping the list of renovation projects.

Houzz reports they also attract the highest budgets.

Clearly, a well-designed kitchen is a priority.

Whether youʼre considering a full remodel or just want to make better use of the space you have, here are eight strategies to bring more function—and less frustration—to your kitchen: Maximize storage. Make use of corners, awkward spaces, and specialty cabinetry. Even small adjustments, like adding

Day, prep your home for fall

Labor Day may mark the unofficial end of summer fun, but for homeowners itʼs also the perfect cue to turn attention back to the house. September is an in-between month—warm enough for outdoor work, but close enough to cooler weather that early preparation pays off. Local contractors say now is the time to: • Clean and inspect gutters before leaves start to fall.

• Check weatherstripping on windows and doors to cut heating costs.

• Schedule furnace or boiler service before the first cold snap.

• Store or cover patio furniture to extend its life.

• Swap out air-conditioning filters and do a deep clean of rugs, upholstery, and high-traffic areas indoors.

Say, now you’re cooking! Put these eight tips to work where it matters. pull-out racks, can prevent wast- living space, mirror some design elements so the transition feels ed space. essentials close.

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A more functional kitchen nets to make them work for your items, not the other way around. doesnʼt always require a full renStreamline trash. A pull- ovation. Youʼll find thoughtful out cabinet for bins makes it eas- tweaks can improve efficiency, ier to sort compost, recycling, reduce clutter, and make this and trash without disrupting the already popular space an even greater asset to everyday life. flow of the kitchen.

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Find Local Help for Your Next Project We can help. As the busy fall home improvement season begins, many homeowners are looking for reliable help close to home. From roofing and gutters to plumbing, landscaping, and electrical work, local professionals are ready to take on projects big and small.

The Pascack Press Service Directory offers a convenient place to find trusted local contractors and service providers who advertise right in your hometown newspaper.

Whether youʼre planning a kitchen upgrade, tackling seasonal maintenance, or just need a handyman for small jobs, the directory is designed to connect residents with experienced businesses in the Pascack Valley area.

Check out the Service Directory in this weekʼs issue — it starts on page 35 — and keep it handy.

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REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS

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From lush landscape design and maintenance to expert paving and hardscaping, this family-owned firm has earned a reputation for excellence across Bergen County.

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PASCACK VALLEY

RUTGERS REPORT SAYS HOTTER SUMMERS, HEAVIER STORMS LOOM FOR GARDEN STATE

New Jersey residents should brace for hotter summers, heavier rainstorms, and continued sea-level rise, according to a climate report released in August by Rutgers Universityʼs Climate Change Resource Center.

The report, authored by 11 Rutgers scientists, shows New Jersey is warming at twice the global average.

Since 1900, the state has warmed about 4 degrees Fahrenheit, compared with 2 degrees worldwide.

“We have gotten considerably warmer in New Jersey in recent decades,” said David Robinson, New Jersey State Climatologist and one of the reportʼs authors, speaking Thursday during a virtual public meeting about the report. “ W e were really cooking back in 2024,” which marked the second-hottest year on record for the state, Robinson said.

By 2100, scientists project another 3.7 to 6.2 degrees of warming (compared with 1991–2020 averages). That means: • Wetter winters, dryer summers • More extreme rainfall events that could overwhelm local stormwater systems

adaptation specialist and co-author, added: “We think this warming trend is going to continue into the future.”

The reportʼs findings have direct implications for Bergen Coun-

ty and the Pascack and Northern Valley areas, where aging stormwater systems and repeated flood events already strain local budgets and residents.

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“A warming atmosphere can retain more moisture. For every 1.8-degree Fahrenheit change in temperature, the atmosphere has the potential of holding 7% more moisture.” — New Jersey State Climatologist David Robinson.

“A warming atmosphere can • Greater stretches of drought retain more moisture. For every 1.8between storms • More mosquitoes and higher degree Fahrenheit change in temperrisk of mosquito-borne illnesses ature, the atmosphere has the potensuch as West Nile virus and malaria tial of holding 7% more moisture,” • Rising seas — another 2 to 5 Robinson said during the virtual feet by 2100, on top of the 19 inches meeting.

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

REAL ESTATE

32

Fisher:

who had collected 2,141 signatures. A minimum of 1,864 were required.

Kaufmanʼs two-page letter, addressed to Clark and Collins, outlines where the petitions fell short under the Uniform Recall Election Law: “As the sheets comprising the Recall Petition were not notarized, the Recall Petition failed to comply with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 19:27A-3 et seq. and the Clerk has no alternative but to reject the Petition.”

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

FROM PAGE 13

Said Clark in response, “We have already notified all parties involved that we are contesting the decision, the main reason being that we were advised by the clerkʼs office on June 24 via email that a notary was not required. All pages included an affidavit that was signed appropriately by the circulator responsible for their specific pages as advised by the clerk.”

The ballot would contain two parts: • Should Robert Fisher Jr. be recalled? (Yes/No) • Who should replace him — listing Fisherʼs name and any other qualified candidate.

Although a potential replace-

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ment had filed a candidate petition, Taranto told us after the petition was submitted that the focus should remain on the recallʼs eligibility process for the time being.

Fisherʼs team issued a statement soon after the decision.

“Today, the Bergen County Clerk agreed with Robert Fisherʼs objection and rejected a recall petition seeking his removal from the Park Ridge Board of Education. The County Clerk agreed with Fisher that the recall petition is fatally flawed and invalid because none of the petitions were signed under notarization as required by state law,” he said.

“I am delighted that the Clerkʼs Office followed the law and rejected this ridiculous attempt to subvert the will of Park Ridgeʼs voters,” Fisher said. “Now I can get back to doing the will of the people with this distraction out of the way.”

He said his “biggest priorities for the second phase of my first term will be passing my policies on opioid overdose and suicide prevention, so our town doesnʼt see another life cut short by these plagues.”

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He said, “Iʼll also be working to champion the taxpayer, so you (Park Ridge residents) have your money spent effectively.”

And, his statement continued, “This decision vindicated New Jerseyʼs requirement that recall petitions be submitted under oath, which is the only way to ensure election integrity.”

He said, “Iʼd like to acknowledge two great advocates of mine in [R-39] [state] Senator Holly Schepisi and Assemblyman John Azzariti. They saw that

this effort reeked of lies and age discrimination from the start, standing by me through every step of this process.”

He added, “Iʼd also like to extend my warmest thanks to the people of Park Ridge, who elected me two years ago and continue to place their faith in me to serve our community. God has blessed me immensely, and continues to provide for our wonderful borough.”

Sources tell Pascack Press Fisher was absent from the prior two school board meetings.

RIVER VALE

Zack Latteri Foundation milestone event Oct. 16

The Zack Latteri Foundation invites the community to celebrate a decade of “paying it forward: one story at a time” at a special anniversary event on Wednesday, Oct. 16, from 7 to 10 p.m. at Edgewood Country Club, 449 Rivervale Road.

The evening will feature a buffet dinner and dancing. Tickets are $100 per person, with a cash bar available. Payment is due by Oct. 1, and reservations can be made online at tinyurl.com/ZLF-Event.

Proceeds benefit the foundationʼs ongoing mission of honoring the legacy of Zack Latteri by helping others in need.

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Letters:

Township has the best opportunity to thrive.

Much has changed in recent years, and stability has never been more important. If re-elected, I would be one of only two trustees returning for a second term, alongside Vice President Peck. That continuity is critical to maintaining momentum, avoiding setbacks, and

keeping our district moving forward. Working closely with Superintendent Dr. Patrick McQueeney and my fellow trustees, I have helped ensure every discussion and decision remains student-centered — leading with integrity and Cardinal pride.

Together, we have accomplished much: • Recruited and hired Dr. Patrick McQueeney, one of New Jerseyʼs top superintendents, restoring confidence in our community.

• Negotiated a fair and competitive teachersʼ contract that brought

staff security while staying fiscally responsible.

• Balanced the budget amid the highest transportation and healthcare costs in years — without cutting programs or resources for students.

• Strengthened school safety by restoring a dedicated safety and security specialist and commissioning a Bergen County–led assessment to enhance protections.

• Elevated academic rigor and improved school climate, hiring 25 inspiring staff and creating leadership roles that directly support

group: the Jersey Dutch house and the Dutch barn.

Tim Adriance is a well-known and well-versed historian in Bergen and Rockland counties. He has been active in local history since 1983,

and he posts daily history articles for 54,000 followers on Facebookʼs “Vintage Bergen County.” He is an engaging, entertaining, and educational storyteller and author.

A researcher, writer, and historic-preservation specialist, Tim has also consulted on, written about, and worked on more than 80 northern New Jersey and Hudson Valley historic sites. For 10 years, he was a regular contributor to Bergen Countyʼs Autumn Years magazine.

In addition, Timʼs research work includes historic sites throughout New Jersey, and as far south as Maryland.

In particular, Tim is the recognized authority on the Jersey Dutch culture, their sandstone houses, and unique barns of Bergen and Rockland counties. With New Netherland roots that go back 400 years—and as a descendant of such early settlers as Demarest, Haring, Blauvelt, and Auryansen/Smith—Tim literally has local history in his blood.

Seating for this presentation is

FROM PAGE 2

Dutch: FROM PAGE 4

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When a new school was built in 1895, Abram C. Holdrum moved the old one to his farm (presently 350 Rivervale Road) for use as a carriage house.

In addition to being the largest landowner in town at the turn of the 20th century, Holdrum was a freeholder and state assemblyman. He introduced the legisla-

FROM PAGE 4

Bids:

and assistance but were turned away.

DiCara said despite the officialʼs delays, it appeared progress was continuing and schools would open on time. “I think the positive, though, is with everybodyʼs efforts, that glitch we responded to and got it back on track. Thereʼs sufficient time to build this building,” he added, noting the next step will be to evaluate and then award the bid in late September.

DiCara said of the 16 contractors picking up bid specs on middle school renovations, only nine did a pre-bid walk-through of the building. He said he told the potential contractors that the total bid spec package budget was estimated at $40 million to $41 million.

Saxon said “in spite of that

FROM PAGE 7

teachers and enrich students.

Today, the Westwood Regional School District stands on a stronger footing, with a healthier climate and steadier leadership. That foundation allows us to focus fully on what matters most: student achievement, safety and well-being, fiscal responsibility, and continued opportunities for every student to thrive.

I am Dedicated, Proven, and Focused on our districtʼs success — and proud to carry forward the Cardinal spirit that unites our schools, families, and towns. In my tenure, I have not missed a single board or

committee meeting and have answered every outreach from stakeholders and constituents.

That is the dedication I will continue as our schools move onward and upwards with Cardinal pride.

On Nov. 4, I respectfully ask for your vote in Column C to keep the Westwood Regional School District moving forward.

Go Cards — always!

With gratitude, Jason R. Garcia Westwood

A room in the Pascack Historical Society’s museum recreates a Jersey Dutch homestead as it would have looked 200 years ago. On Sept. 7, the museum hosts historian Tim Adriance for a presentation on the Jersey Dutch culture.

first come, first served. The museum will be open that afternoon beginning at 1 p.m., so guests are encouraged to arrive early, claim a seat,

and enjoy the exhibits for a while.

For more information, visit pascackhistoricalsociety.org or call 201-573-0307.

personʼs egregious efforts, due to the work of the administration, the custodial staff, and everybody else, weʼre back on track.” Added DiCara, “Youʼre good to go.

Everythingʼs back, so itʼs very positive.”

One resident asked if the district supported saving a 168-yearold white oak near the entrance to George White, at Magnolia and Liberty avenues. She noted a petition was started on Change.org on Aug. 23.

Lombardy explained the area where the tree resides was needed for construction materials to be laid down and stored and was planned for a future total renovation with staff and visitor parking, ADA compliant ramps, and appropriate drop-off points for buses.

He said the plan received a “courtesy review” by the Planning Board as required, drawing “little comment” and was then sent on to the state Department of Education

for review and approval. Lombardy pointed out the district recently cooperated with the local environmental commission on a $66,000 grant to beautify the elementary school campuses with trees.

He said he was “upset” with the way the petition came about and would have preferred to have a conversation about the treeʼs future. The petition, “Protect Our White Oak and Community Trees,” had 198 signatures as of Aug. 25.

The petition highlights the reasons for tree preservation including environmental benefits; historic and cultural value; community well-being; and irreplaceability.

Lombardy said the space where the tree was planted was needed for construction materials and slated for improvements critical to the newly renovated middle school.

tion that led to the incorporation of River Vale as a township.

The Holdrum Middle School bears the family name—although it honors not Abram, but his son, Garret, who was a longtime president of the board of education.

The schoolhouse was repurposed yet again when the newly formed River Vale Volunteer Fire Department took up residence there in 1923.

The building housed the departmentʼs first motorized apparatus: a second-hand American

LaFrance combination hose and chemical truck.

The firefighters occupied the building on the Holdrum estate for only a handful of years.

A new River Vale municipal building was completed in summer 1927 and it included space for the growing fire department.

With that, the old schoolhouse was once again a farm outbuilding. It was taken down around 1940.

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

IRISH HOME

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

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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Call 201.358.9500 to place your classified ad today!

fax 201.664.2109 or email pascackpress@thepressgroup.net

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Help Wanted Hairdresser PT for Busy Shop In Westwood & PT Receptionist.

Call Colleen at 201.664.4663

HELP WANTED 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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HELP WANTED BOROUGH OF HILLSDALE – P/T CONSTRUCTION OFFICIAL - The Borough of Hillsdale is seeking a parttime Construction Official, HHS Building Subcode Official.

Approximately 20 hours per week. Applicants must hold a valid Construction Official license issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

Certification in FEMA flood plain regulations and holding multiple discipline licenses are a plus. The ideal candidate will have a strong knowledge of construction codes, management principles, and the ability to enforce regulations and maintain accurate records. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with the public, co-workers and local and state officials are essential.

Applicants must hold a valid NJ driver’s license. Annual Salary range: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00. To apply, please submit your resume and qualifications to mailto:mghassali@hillsdalenj.org by EOD August 11, 2025.

HELP WANTED

ONE WEEK

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED - Bather needed Tuesday thru Saturday at dog salon.

Call Elizabeth 201-444-0656

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

WANT BUSINESS? CALL (201) 664-2105

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

Northvale area. Approx.

15 hr/wk. Eves, wknds, holidays. Cashier/stock.

Strong org skills, some deliveries. 201-370-8090.

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

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

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HELP WANTED Parking Enforcement Officer – Borough of Westwood.

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CLEANING SERVICE 20% off new clients for 3 month contract. Call Agnis (845) 309-4448.

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

ROOM WANTED Bright and spacious master bedroom with closet, modern kitchen, living area, and shared bathroom in Westwood near transportation, shopping. We seek a clean, respectful, responsible roommate.

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Utilities and parking included in the month-tomonth rent of $1,000.

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TEAM PLAYER WANTED

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

HOUSECLEANING Polish lady will clean your house, apt, office. Free estimate. Refs available.

Call Maria at 201-4782236.

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

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

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39

WASHINGTON

(Aug. 25, 2025) — The Trump administration is appealing a judgeʼs recent ruling that Alina Habba has unlawfully served as New Jerseyʼs top federal prosecutor since July 1.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi vowed last week to challenge U.S. District Judge Matthew Brannʼs ruling, just hours after it was filed, and she officially did so in a one-page notice of appeal Monday.

Habba, President Donald Trumpʼs former personal lawyer, didnʼt wait for things to be official.

She went on the offensive Sunday on Fox News, bashing a U.S. Senate tradition known as “blue slips,” which allows senators to block judicial and U.S. attorney nominees in their home states from advancing. Trump on Monday threatened to sue to end the century-old practice.

New Jerseyʼs two U.S. senators, Democrats Cory Booker and Andy Kim, have criticized Trumpʼs pick of Habba as U.S. attorney.

“Senator Booker and Senator Kim had absolutely every right to vote no for me for the U.S. Attorney position, but I had the right as the nominee to get in front of Senate and to be voted on, to be vetted. I never even got there. Of course not. I was, according to them, unqualified,” Habba said. “Why? Look at (Dem Rep.) Hakeem Jeffriesʼ tweet.

Because I arrested a congresswoman for a charge of assaulting a police officer. And you know what? I stand by my work as the U.S. attorney, and I wonʼt be intimidated by this type of political rhetoric.”

She repeated that message on social media Monday, calling on Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), who chairs the Senateʼs Judiciary Committee, to end the blue-slip tradition.

“Remember, President Trump nominates individuals that he knows can get the job done. Your job is to work with your committee to advance their nominations. Doing the dirty work of Thom Tillis, Corey (sic) Booker and Andy Kim is NOT what America voted for,” she wrote. “Now

George Harcher photo

Trump officials have appealed a federal judge's ruling that Alina Habba has served 'unlawfully' as acting U.S. attorney in N.J. since July 1. (Photo by Gage Skidmore).

New Jersey is becoming a playground for criminals because of partisan Federal Judges.”

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) also sits on the judiciary committee and has said he would honor blue slips.

Itʼs not clear whether opposition from Booker and Kim is all that has kept Habba from receiving confirmation from the U.S. Senate. Grassley on Monday said when Trump withdrew her name as a nominee for U.S. attorney — part of a series of legal and personnel moves the Trump administration undertook to keep Habba in the job past a statutory deadline — the judiciary committee had not received any of the paperwork needed for it to vet her nomination.

Habba has had a turbulent tenure since Trump named her to the post in an acting capacity in March, most rooted in her prosecutions of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver, both Democrats, stemming from their May visit to an immigrant jail in Newark. Her office has reportedly subpoenaed Gov. Phil Murphy, also a Democrat, over comments he made in February that sug-

gested he might hide an undocumented immigrant in his home.

After the Senate did not act to confirm her, a federal panel of judges in New Jersey in July declined to extend her tenure and chose her top deputy, Desiree Leigh Grace, for the post. Trump officials, though, fired Grace and reinstalled Habba, setting off the legal battle that ended up before Brann.

Brann voided all Habbaʼs actions as acting U.S. attorney since July 1, but he stayed his decision pending appeal. He also called on her to recuse herself from prosecutions until the ongoing court battle ends, because federal prosecutions in New Jersey have largely ground to a halt, with questions about her authority unresolved. But she has refused to do so.

The caseʼs next stop will be the U.S. 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals.

— BY DANA DIFILIPPO of New Jersey Monitor, https://newjerseymonitor.com, part of States Newsroom, the nationʼs largest statefocused nonprofit news organization.

Reprinted under Creative Commons license.

WESTWOOD CEMETERY CO.

MUTUAL AID SWOOPS TO GSP VEHICLE FIRE

Multiple fire companies responded to a car fire — a burgundy Range Rover — on the Garden State Parkway Tuesday afternoon, which briefly spread to nearby brush and slowed traffic in the northbound lanes.

According to the Woodcliff Lake Fire Department, Northwest Bergen Central Dispatch began receiving multiple 911 calls at 12:03 p.m. reporting a vehicle fire in the area of mile marker 168.4. The fire was later confirmed closer to mile marker 167.8.

Under an automatic mutual aid policy, Woodcliff Lake and Montvale firefighters were ini-

tially dispatched. Upon confirmation that the incident was within Hillsdaleʼs jurisdiction, Chief 681 requested Hillsdale Fire Department units as well.

Woodcliff Lakeʼs Squad 68 stretched a front bumper line to knock down the vehicle fire and flames that had extended into the surrounding brush. Hillsdaleʼs Engine 2 assisted with overhaul operations, while River Valeʼs Engine M1 supplied additional water to the squad company.

M10 unit Montvaleʼs assumed Parkway Command. No injuries were reported.

— Staff report

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

TRUMP APPEALS RULING ON ACTING U.S. ATTORNEY PICK

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025 • PASCACK VALLEY PRESS

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