PASCACKPRESS 9.8.25NEW

Capitol honors

TESLA, WCL SON HEADTO JURYFIGHT OVER FATAL GSP CRASH

ʻNot self-drivingʼ: Tesla rebuts claims in suit over crash that killed Max Dryermanʼs family

BYJOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Tesla has filed a formal response in federal court denying allegations that its technology played a role in the Garden State Parkway crash that killed three members of the Dryerman family of Woodcliff Lake last year.

The case, Dryerman et al. v. Tesla, Inc. (2:25-cv-11997), stems from the deaths of David and See TESLA on page 11

PV Triathlon, Kids Splash & Dash Draw Hundreds, Raise $3,000 for Local Causes

APERFECT SUMMER morning, a giant waterslide, and hundreds of eager athletes: that was the recipe for success at the 2025 Pascack Valley Triathlon and Kids Splash & Dash, held at Stonybrook Swim Club.

KIDS IN GEAR

From the moment participants rocketed down the signature waterslide start, the day brimmed with excitement. “The race is won or lost by your slide technique,” one athlete quipped, setting the tone for a fun yet fiercely competitive event.

The Park Ridge Recreation Committee and Drivin’ News invite families to the Second Annual Collectible Car Fair for Kids and Teens on Sunday, Sept. 21.

16

The triathlon drew a mix of seasoned athletes and firsttimers. Race Director James Koh of Team Next Level said thatʼs exactly the point: “We love helping people step out of their comfort zones. For so

Continued on page 24

TOWNS AWARDED NEARLY $900K IN OPENSPACE FUNDS

Park Ridgeʼs $232,000 grant will support acquisition of the Frederick Wortendyke Homestead

BYMICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

All eight Pascack Valley towns and six of 13 Northern Valley towns will share nearly $2 million in Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund 2025 allocations, according to a public notice published by the countyʼs Trust Fund Advisory Committee.

The Borough of Park Ridge and the City of Englewood scored the largest grants: Park Ridge will receive $232,000 to acquire the Frederick Wortendyke Homestead—the oldest home in Pascack Valley—and Englewood will receive $165,000 for an acquisition at 173 West Forest Ave.

In total, Pascack Valley towns secured $861,006 in grants, while six Northern Valley municipalities received $1,079,376. Seven Northern Valley towns did not receive funding; it was not immediately clear whether they applied.

See TOWNS on page 13

On Woodcliff Avenue surrounded by a modern middle school campus, Woodcliff Lake’s little stone schoolhouse offers a lesson in longevity Kristin Beuscher reports.

4

Rep. Josh Gottheimer helps celebrate Emma Chance, 101.

14

WOODCLIFF LAKE

PASCACK VALLEY

How it’s done: Coach Marilyn Novo of Team Next Level presents $2,000 to the Police Unity Tour, joined by Ray Calderone, Dennis Figueroia Jr., Jessica Arebalo, Michael Losurdo, Harold Mine, and Alex Miller. Erica Chin, mewcaw photography

PASCACK PRESS

Timely message on affordable housing

To the editor:

I OPENED my Pascack Press on this lovely last weekend of summer and was delighted and appreciative to see your Commentary , “Affordable housing, overdevelopment, and perception” [John Snyder, Sept. 1.]

Your newspaperʼs thorough coverage of the lack of affordable housing for hard-working

families in our county and the sad lack of support from towns who can afford to be more generous and compassionate makes me sad.

I live in one of these towns and having met mothers and fathers who are working two jobs, facing homelessness and are in desperate need of a rent that is affordable, makes me sad.

Every year about 1,800 people call Family Promiseʼs office in crisis. Imagine being the mother of a child who has no dependable place to sleep or bed or bedroom to call home. Every child in Bergen County deserves that simple security. Perhaps your continued reporting on this important issue can change

minds and lives.

Thank you.

Susan Ungaro Board member Family Promise of Bergen County

bergenfamilypromise.org

Workers, homeowners, and the PILOTdivide

To the editor: R EGARDING “Affordable housing, overdevelopment, and perception” [Commentary, John Snyder, Sept. 1.]

The case at hand involves visible people doing necessary work openly. Everywhere in the U.S., this work is done largely by immigrants. Here, those workers and their advocate face resistance to one small affordable housing plan—just eight units to shelter Bergen County neighbors who already bear the burden of hard work and heavy rent.

The resistance comes from homeowners, most unseen. Theyʼve struggled to obtain and hold onto mortgages, and many question whether government serves them or itself.

At the municipal level they complain of traffic and school “ruin.” Theyʼre not experts, but those are the words they hear at

town meetings. After enough of these meetings, they may think the paid experts—funded by their property taxes—serve only the town hall insiders. Homeowners may then need to hire their own lawyers or engineers just to be heard.

A former Montvale mayor once explained he represented his electors through his own opinions: “Nothing gets done with all opining together. The mayor opines for all.” More recently, “weʼre open for business” has driven the local chase for ratables. But negotiations between town hall and developers happen out of sight, like nuclear talks in Washington, D.C. Homeowners only learn the details at land use board meetings.

Lost in the discussion is the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) incentive that has fueled overdevelopment—or at least the perception of it—throughout the Pascack Valley. Long-time taxpayers, who never had such breaks, feel the imbalance. Yet neither they nor the immigrant workers seeking modest housing relief in Emerson can appeal local control to higher levels.

The state insists all municipalities must add affordable housing, while trying to pacify homeowners with small subsidies. Washington offers no help. The White House touts raids on “illegal immigrants,” cheered by supporters even at town hall.

And so, here in Lake Wobegone, all the men are handsome, all the women beautiful, and all

the children above average. Thatʼs

WCL growth without school funding

To the editor: M Y BOROUGH, Woodcliff Lake, is moving forward with a proposed 1,200-unit development under a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement. On the surface, this may look like a financial win for the municipality, since PILOT payments typically go directly into the townʼs budget. But missing from this picture is the significant impact on our schools and infrastructure. We have volunteer EMS and fire departments. Where will they get resources?

Based on reasonable estimates, each new resident could add about 0.4 children to the public school system, for roughly 500 additional students. With an average cost of $32,000 per high school pupil per year—per the boroughʼs 2025 budget—the burden on the schools could exceed millions annually

Unlike property taxes, PILOT payments do not con-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Pascack Valley “charm.”

Kurt F. Kron Montvale

Revoked! ERUR no longer borough’s redeveloper

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

EMERSON

The Borough Council voted, 5-0, on Sept. 2 to revoke the designation of Emerson Redevelopers Urban Renewal (ERUR) as the boroughʼs redeveloper for the longdelayed, and alwas controversial, central business district project. The action follows a July 31 Notice of Default that gave ERUR 30 days to respond—time that has since lapsed without action.

Borough attorney John McCann said the redeveloper was directed to address multiple defaults but failed to do so. “The defaults are many in the agreement, regardless of what their position is,” he told officials.

McCann noted ERUR has made “zero” good-faith effort to provide required documentation on seven offsite affordable housing units, an issue that has been a major point of contention.

Instead, he said, the redeveloper only sought a meeting with the court regarding previously resolved litigation—“outside the scope” of the boroughʼs demands.

In recent weeks the borough filed both a notice of default and a

Not so much: ERUR, having failed to address multiple defaults, says the borough attorney, no longer holds rights to build Emerson Station, the fenced-off mixed use project dominating downtown. With default and termination notices filed, the next steps could include legal proceedings, the pursuit of a new redeveloper, or other remedies.

notice of termination against ERUR, citing unpaid property taxes and failure to complete the Emerson Station mixed-use redevelopment on Kinderkamack between Lincoln and Linwood. McCann said those actions could be precursors to condemnation.

[See “On fizzled, eyesore Block 419 project, ʻeverything is on the table,ʼ” posted Aug. 29, 2025, by Michael Olohan.]

“From a legal perspective, they have been put on notice. There is no ability to ʻcureʼthe termination

because they were terminated for two purposes,” McCann said Aug. 19. “We are well past the time period they had to construct the project.”

Next steps

Borough officials said the revocation marks a turning point for the long-stalled project, though the siteʼs future remains uncertain. With default and termination notices already filed, the next steps could include legal proceedings, the pursuit of a new redeveloper, or

Cheers as Apple Montessori School opens; replaces Charlie Brown’s

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OFWASHINGTON

A new 10,500-square-foot Apple Montessori School opened its doors Sept. 3 at 95 Linwood Avenue, nearly 2 1/2 years after

first applying for variances to build on the triangular 1.7-acre strip of land between the Garden State Parkway and Hemlock Drive.

More than 50 children were expected on opening day, said Erica Amon, vice president of development.

“This is our first brand-new,

ground-up facility for Apple Montessori,” said Amon. “Weʼre really excited to be here. The support from local government, code officials, fire and police has been incredible.”

Mayor Peter Calamari welcomed the school: “I extend my

other remedies under state redevelopment law. For now, officials stressed, ERUR no longer holds rights to build Emerson Station.

SEN. BOOKER SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON FEDERAL FLOOD INSURANCE CHANGES

WASHINGTON, D.C.

F ederal lawmakers are exploring changes to the National Flood Insurance Program ahead of a reauthorization deadline this month, and lawmakers want to know how the program should change.

Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana) are soliciting feedback from the public on how to improve the program’s coverage and help keep it affordable and solvent ahead of the Sept. 30 reauthorization deadline.

“This is an urgent pocketbook issue for many in our state, and as Republicans and Democrats come together to work on this important legislation, I encourage New Jerseyans to provide us with their input,” Booker said in a statement.

Senate lawmakers are soliciting feedback on proposed changes to the program through an online form that will remain open until Sept. 15.

Lawmakers are considering lowering caps to annual premium increases, allowing policyholders to pay monthly premiums rather than annual ones, and higher coverage limits for

See FLOOD on page 26

Bckintime... Bckintime...

N WOODCLIFF AVENUE surrounded by a modern middle school campus, Woodcliff Lake’s little stone schoolhouse offers a lesson in longevity. It’s the oldest continually operating school building in Bergen County, having opened on Sept. 9, 1895—130 years ago this week.

After Woodcliff broke off from Washington Township and was incorporated as a borough in 1894, the first local board of education meeting soon fol-

PASCACK PRESS

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

lowed. As a modern municipality standing on its own for the first time, a schoolhouse would be an important symbol of this new community.

The building’s design came courtesy of Samuel Burrage Reed, a nationally known architect who had recently been elected the borough’s first mayor. Reed’s own home on Woodcliff Avenue served as the venue for the early borough meetings.

With offices based in New York City, Reed was the architect behind prominent buildings in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut—including the Passaic County Courthouse, Middle Collegiate Church on Second Avenue in New York City, and more. Born in Meriden, Connecticut, in 1834 and trained as a car-

penter in his teen years, Reed went to New York City at 21 to take up the profession of architect. He had a successful career for more than 40 years.

Reed’s family moved from the city about 1890 and purchased a quiet countryside estate at Woodcliff. He became

deeply involved in local affairs, serving as mayor, justice of the peace, commissioner of deeds, commissioner of appeals, president of the board of health, and president of the board of education.

The architect mayor also loaned his skill for Pascack Valley works. He designed both the schoolhouse in Woodcliff and St. Paul’s (Old Stone) Church on Grand Avenue in neighboring Montvale. Each opened in 1895, these buildings were designed in a similar fashion: quaint, one-room fieldstone structures that were practical for the rural Pascack Valley of the time. Today both are still standing as charming relics within a modern suburban landscape.

The Woodcliff schoolhouse cost less than $2,500 to build—equivalent to about $96,000 today. It had one classroom that contained 26 student desks, three chairs, and a desk for the teacher,

SPECIALTO

The Woodcliff schoolhouse opened 130 years ago this week—Sept. 9, 1895. The borough had broken off from Washington Township just one year earlier. Designed by an architect who was also the first mayor, the stones for its construction were gathered from the surrounding fields of the farming community. Here, the teachers and several students are on the front steps circa 1905.

An aerial view from the Woodcliff Lake School District shows the 130-yearold schoolhouse now enveloped within a modern middle school campus. Below, despite improvements that have modernized it in keeping with today’s safety standards, a student of 1900 would recognize their school building.

BOOKER

Gateway must deliver for the Pascack Valley, too

COMMENTARY

EVERY PASCACK VALLEY commuter knows the grind: infrequent schedules, single-track bottlenecks, and the sinking feeling that missing one train can derail your entire day. Our line has long been constrained by limited service. If you donʼt ride at peak hours, youʼre often left with few options.

Thatʼs why the Gateway Tunnel — the $16 billion infrastructure project to unclog the Northeast Corridor — isnʼt just a Manhattan story. Itʼs our story, too.

In a recent interview with BINJEʼs Tom Bergeron — tip of the hat to Carol Rauscher, president and CEO of the North New Jersey Chamber of Commerce — Amtrak Chairman Tony Coscia explained why. Heʼs worked on Gateway for more than two decades, and heʼs clear: the project isnʼt simply about doubling tracks under the Hudson. Itʼs about creating a modern, four-track system that allows trains to run more often

BY JOHN SNYDER

and more reliably, not just to and from New York, but across New Jersey itself. “Rail travel works best when you give people a lot of frequencies,”

Coscia says. “If the train left every couple of hours, youʼd be more likely to utilize it.”

That stands out to me. For

Pascack Valley riders, more frequency is the difference between a train as a once-a-day lifeline and a train as part of daily life. Too often we plan our evenings around a narrow window of departures. Miss that train, and you might miss the game, the meeting, or the family obligation waiting at home.

Coscia also makes an important point: with congestion finally eased at the systemʼs biggest choke point, NJ Transit can expand service within New Jersey itself.

“Maybe we can connect different places within New Jersey,” he says,

“because now New Jersey Transit is no longer as constrained as they were.”

Imagine a Pascack Valley Line where you could reasonably ride to Hoboken, Newark, or even across the state without mapping your day around the timetableʼs thin offerings. That vision is suddenly within reach.

Gateway is paired with a fleet transformation that should also matter to us. Amtrak has already begun rolling out 28 new NextGen Acela trains and is in the process of replacing its regional fleet with Siemens Airo models, scheduled to be complete by 2035. Taken together, the tunnel and the new trains promise a system that is faster, cleaner, and ready for a new generation of riders.

Those riders are already here. Coscia notes that Amtrakʼs demographic is changing: a younger, more leisure-driven mix of passengers, including people who donʼt drive. That mirrors trends in Bergen County, where families and young professionals are looking

ARREST IN $50K LULULEMON THEFT SPREE

A Brooklyn man accused of raiding Lululemon stores along the East Coast has been captured after a string of thefts totaling about $50,000.

Police say Tyrique Howard, 24, stole more than $15,000 worth of merchandise from Montvale alone in July and August. On July 10, surveillance video showed him filling a bag with 65 pairs of leggings worth $6,370 before fleeing in a Chevy

Cobalt. Less than a month later, investigators say he returned with an accomplice and escaped with nearly $10,000 in goods.

Detectives in Montvale worked with police in New York and Connecticut, linking Howard to thefts in multiple jurisdictions. They issued a warrant, adding to others already on file.

The NYPD arrested him Aug. 18, and he was extradited to Bergen

County nine days later. After one day in jail, he was transferred to Connecticut to face additional charges.

Lululemon has become a frequent target for organized shoplifting rings. The company bars employees from confronting thieves, a zero-tolerance policy designed to prioritize safety but often leaving police to chase suspects across state lines.

for options beyond the car — many heeding the invitation of developers setting up on the rail lines (or, in the case of Accurate Builders in Emerson, with its stalled Citzen Emerson Station, intending to.)

“Our biggest problem as a company,” Coscia admitted, “is we donʼt have enough trains and enough seats to sell people.”

Of course, there are hurdles. Skeptics are right to note that Gateway is expensive, that its budget and timeline are ambitious, and that major infrastructure projects rarely go smoothly. Coscia insists the 2035 completion date is realistic and that so far work is on schedule. Still, the temptation to write off long-term promises is strong, especially for riders who have heard them before.

But the cost of doing nothing is higher The current bottleneck doesnʼt just frustrate New York commuters — it strangles our schedules here in the Pascack Valley. It locks us into thin service, with ripple effects that touch everything from property values to quality of life.

Thatʼs why itʼs vital that Pas-

cack Valley residents keep an eye on Gateway and hold our leaders accountable. This project must deliver more than smoother trips under the Hudson. It must deliver reliable, frequent, flexible service here at home.

Weʼve waited long enough. Gateway offers the chance for the Pascack Valley Line to finally step into the future — not just a line into Manhattan, but a true connector within New Jersey. Thatʼs the standard we should demand, and thatʼs why this tunnel is a hyperlocal story to us.

Read the full interview, “Amtrakʼs Coscia details how Gateway Tunnel will transform train travel throughout New Jersey” by Tom Bergeron, at BINJE.com.

These are the authorʼs views, and might not be those of The Press Group, its staff, or its partners. We welcome a lively, respectful discussion of timely local topics. Editor John Snyder can be reached, and letters submitted for consideration, at pascackpress@thepressgroup .net. See Page 2 for guidelines and join the conversation.

Fire Department fields 48 emergency calls in July

The Westwood Fire Department logged 48 emergency calls in July 2025, the busiest month in recent memory, according to Chief Brian Kronewitter.

While no major fires broke out in town, firefighters found themselves tackling a variety of incidents — from a Dumpster blaze and fireworks smoldering on the ground to a stove fire stopped before it spread.

The month began dramatically on July 3, when an underground high-tension failure knocked out power across town while a live wire came down near Broadway. Crews rushed to both sites, cordoned off

the danger zones, and stood watch until PSE&G arrived.

[For that story, see “When the lights went out, the borough and friends stepped up” by John Snyder, July 20.]

Other calls showed the variety of hazards firefighters face:

• Rooftop scare: a fan belt burning on an HVAC unit had to be shut down before the fire spread.

• Elevator rescues: in two cases, crews used specialized tools to free trapped riders; in a third, the passenger was out before firefighters arrived.

• Gas and CO calls: firefight-

ers chased down five reports of gas odors and three carbon monoxide alarms, handing over to PSE&G when needed.

• Automatic fire alarms 20 in all — kept firefighters busy. While none turned out to be fires, each required a full-scale response and a top-to-bottom building check. Causes ranged from dusty detectors and contractors at work to accidental pull-station activations and even vaping under a detector.

In addition to in-town responses, Westwood firefighters provided mutual aid six times — twice in Washington Township, three times

in Hillsdale, and once each in River Vale and Woodcliff Lake for serious house fires. They also received help twice from Hillsdale and River Vale crews. All told, Julyʼs calls, drills, and maintenance sessions added up to more than 480 hours of volunteer service.

Battery Safety

This month, the department is urging residents to take C.H.A.R.G.E. of battery safety with lithium-ion devices:

• Choose certified products,

• Handle with care,

• Always check for warning signs,

• Recycle properly,

• Get out quickly if fire starts, and

• Educate others. More information is available at batteryfiresafety.org.

For your non-emergency questions, contact wwfdchief@westwoodnj.gov or 201-664-0526. For the Fire Prevention Bureau, email dblankenbush@westwoodnj.gov or call 201664-7100 ext. 308.

In an emergency, always dial 911.

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.”

BOROUGH OKS OLD BARNSITE UPGRADES, WORKONSTREETSCAPE

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

WOODCLIFFLAKE

Over the summer, the Borough Council approved nearly $689,000 for site improvements on and near the former Old Barn property, adjacent to the boroughʼs train station.

At its July 21 meeting, the council awarded a $635,995 contract to AJM Contractors Inc. of Clifton for Old Barn site improvements. AJM submitted the lowest of three responsible bids, followed by Downes Tree Service Company at $757,387.30 and AA Berms at $836,197.50.

Council President Joshua Stern told Pascack Press the work will include safety and cosmetic

upgrades to the parking lots adjoining the NJ Transit station. Plans call for a retaining wall where the former barn structure stood, as well as a pollinator garden. In addition, three lots will be repaved and a driveway widened.

Stern said the project will be built in phases to keep as many as possible of the 55–70 parking spaces open. Residents will be notified of any restrictions once work begins.

At its Aug. 18 meeting, the council approved a $52,900 contract with Neglia Engineering for construction administration of Phase II of the Old Barn improvements, plus up to $5,000 in reimbursable expenses.

Also at the July 21 meeting, officials approved $233,364 from the state Department of Transporta-

tion for the Broadway Corridor Streetscape Improvements Project, running from Prospect to Campbell streets. The council also approved a $25,900 construction management contract for the streetscape work, plus up to $1,500 for reimbursable expenses for Phase III.

According to the resolution, “Neglia is proceeding with the design and bid documents for NJDOT pre-bid submission. Neglia to submit to PSEG for street lighting coordination and to NJDOT for pre-bid review by the end of the month. We anticipate submitting to NJDOT for a 6-month extension to allow for sufficient time for PSEG street lighting coordination to be incorporated into the final bid documents.”

The original grant deadline was Oct. 31, 2025.

The Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club will hold the first meeting of the new club year on Monday, Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. in the Montvale Senior Center, Memorial Drive. Steve Germino will lead a discussion on the ins and outs of buying and selling on eBay.

Steve Germino will lead a discussion on the ins and outs of buying and selling on eBay.

The club will once again sponsor a Sunday afternoon high Tea, Oct. 26, at the Montvale Senior Center. This will be the first major fundraiser for the club

year, with proceeds benefiting the New Jersey Childrenʼs Alliance, the GPVWC Scholarship Fund, and other local charities.

The meeting is open to all Pascack Valley residents interested in helping work to better our community. For more information call 201-694-4400 or email GPVWC1990@gmail.com. — Via Kathy Grubb

League panel on protecting democracy Sept. 17

The League of Women Voters Northern Valley, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering voters and defending democracy, invites the public to a Constitution Day panel discussion on Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. Light refreshments will be served, and all are welcome.

The program comes as the League intensifies its call to action. In May, the national League declared that the United States is

facing a constitutional crisis and launched Unite and Rise 8.5, a campaign to mobilize 8.5 million voters in defense of democracy. The effort responds to declining turnout and growing threats to voting rights: in 2024, only 65.3% of registered voters (154 million people) cast ballots, despite 73.6% of the voting-age population being registered.

The Sept. 17 panel will be moderated by Tomasina Schwarz, president of the League of Women Voters Northern Valley, and will

feature:

•Representatives from Northeast NJ Legal Services (immigration and civil rights)

•Bob Hennelly, interim station manager, WBAI Radio

• Dr. Kyle T. Kattleman, associate professor of political science, Fairleigh Dickinson University Panelists will address issues at the heart of democracy, including independent journalism, immigration rights, presidential powers, civil rights, and reproductive rights.

The League encourages residents to attend, learn more about

the Unite and Rise 8.5 initiative, and join in protecting and preserving the democratic process through informed civic engagement.

About the League of Women Voters

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that works to expand voter participation, fight voter suppression, and ensure free and fair elections.

Founded in 1946 as the Closter League, by 1964 it included 11 municipalities in the Northern

Valley and was renamed the LWV of Northern Valley.

Today the Northern Valley League draws members from Alpine, Bergenfield, Cliffside Park, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Dumont, Edgewater, Emerson, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Fort Lee, Hackensack, Harrington Park, Haworth, Hillsdale, Leonia, Montvale, New Milford, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Park Ridge, River Vale, Rockleigh, Tenafly, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake.

Via LWV-NV

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Front-line diaries and more illumine WWI heroes

BYJONFELZ R.Z.M. FINE ARTS & ANTIQUES INC.

Hi, Jon,

The enclosed pictures are of my uncle, PFC Gustave H. Hansen of the 306th Field Artillery, 77th Division, and some of his equipment. A native New Yorker from Washington Heights in Manhattan, he was inducted into the AEF and sent overseas to serve in Europe. He kept a neatly painted, printed record of his campaigns on his gas mask carrier. In addition, he wrote two detailed diaries—more than 200 pages each. His helmet, complete with its original liner and bearing the Statue of Liberty insignia, is in excellent condition.

I believe these World War I

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

artifacts could be of interest to collectors and historical groups.

Of course, I also wonder about their potential value. My uncle was my motherʼs brother. She considered the gas mask itself dirty and dusty, so she discarded it— but fortunately, she kept the carrier and helmet. Thank you for your help.

A.J. Mergenthaler

Hi, A.J.,

What a remarkable, identified World War I U.S. Army grouping. Your uncle served in a division

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that unquestionably saw its share of action. The 306th Field Artillery Regiment was formed on Aug. 5, 1917, as part of the United States National Army and was organized atCamp Upton, New York, later that month. The 77th Division—known as the “Statue of Liberty Division”—was a vital component of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF).

The division trained with British forces and adopted their combat tactics, going on to contribute significantly to the Allied

The Great War’s PFC Gustave H. Hansen of the 306th Field Artillery, 77th Division, and his helmet.

victory. Among the major campaigns in which the 77th took part were Oise-Aisne, MeuseArgonne, Champagne, and the Lorraine offensives. Itʼs also famously associated with the “Lost Battalion,” a group of 154th Brigade soldiers surrounded by German forces during the MeuseArgonne Offensive.

The 306th Field Artillery saw heavy action and sustained substantial casualties, as did many artillery units during World War I. Artillery was the leading cause of battlefield casualties, with highexplosive shells, shrapnel, and poison gas inflicting devastating losses. It is estimated that nearly

Club News! Let us promote your organization. Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or mail to: Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

MOVING? DOWNSIZING?

half of all World War I casualties were caused by artillery.

Having had the privilege to read your uncleʼs diaries, I was struck by the vividness of his writing and the harrowing firsthand accounts of the warʼs carnage. Youʼre absolutely right— these artifacts are not only of interest to collectors but carry hist orical weight and emotional power. The diaries, in particular, add depth and humanity to the collection. They allow your uncle to speak across the years, transforming this grouping from a collection of objects into a living narrative.

When you consider the complete picture—his portrait in uniform, helmet, medals, gas mask carrier, and deeply personal writings—this becomes a prime example of what collectors call “the sum of all parts.”

The current value of this outstanding, identified World War I U.S. Army grouping is approximately $4,000.

Thank you for sharing this extraordinary personal and historical record. It was an honor to study the legacy of Private First Class Gustave H. Hansen.

R.Z.M.Fine Arts & Antiques Inc. is based at 132 Dexter Ave., Pearl River,N.Y.Call (845) 7351313 or visit rzmantiques.com.

FROM PAGE 1

Michele Dryerman, both 54, and their daughter Brooke, 17, whose new Tesla Model S struck roadside barriers and a bridge support on Sept. 14, 2024, in Woodbridge.

Their son, Max Dryerman, now 20 and a Drexel University student, is the surviving family member and lead plaintiff.

Tesla filed its answer to the amended complaint on July 30 and demanded a jury trial. The company rejects the claims in their entirety. An initial scheduling conference is set for Sept. 17 at 10 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jessica S. Allen in Newark.

What the family alleges

The lawsuit argues that Teslaʼs much-promoted driver-assistance features — branded as Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and Full SelfDriving Capability — were sold as safer than they really are.

The plaintiffs say David Dryerman believed his new Model S, delivered just three weeks before the crash, could reliably stay in its lane, detect hazards, and apply brakes if necessary. They point to marketing language and public remarks by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, including a 2016 comment that

Max Dreyerman, left, was away at college when his family — father, David, mother, Michele, and sister, Brooke — whose new Tesla Model S struck roadside barriers and a bridge support on Sept. 14, 2024, in Woodbridge, were killed. Despite marketing language, Tesla says in court documents its Autopilot software does not constitute a self-driving vehicle. Photo via Valley Chabad.

worthiness” concerns — in other words, that the Model S didnʼt adequately protect its occupants in a foreseeable crash.

What Tesla says Tesla flatly denies the car or its software were defective. In its filing, the company stresses that while it offers a suite of driverassistance tools, the Model S is not a self-driving vehicle, and

sense of security, saying the technology is designed to assist, not replace, human drivers.

Tesla has not commented publicly beyond its court filings.

The bigger picture

The Dryerman case comes as Tesla faces ongoing federal scrutiny. In December 2023, the company recalled more than two million vehicles after pressure from federal safety regulators, who said Autopilot could be misused. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration continues to investigate fatal crashes involving Teslas where the

Dillon Angulo.

The verdict turned on evidence Tesla had long said was missing: a “collision snapshot” from the vehicleʼs Autopilot computer. A hacker known online as @greentheonlytestified he retrieved the data in minutes at a Starbucks, showing the car had detected obstacles but still plotted a deadly path.

Jurors concluded Tesla bore partial responsibility, rejecting its argument that the crash was entirely the driverʼs fault. The company has vowed to appeal, calling the verdict an outlier that threatens innovation.

The Miami case is already rippling outward: itʼs cited in a Texas shareholder suit and looms over a California Autopilot trial set for this fall.

A grieving community

Beyond the legal battle, the loss of David, Michele, and Brooke Dreyerman, to be borne by Max for the rest of his life, reverberated across Woodcliff Lake and Pascack Hills. Valley Chabad opened its new campus the night after the crash to give teenagers a

place to grieve. Rabbis Dov Drizin and Yosef Orenstein led prayers; Drizin sounded the shofar in remembrance.

At Pascack Hills High School, classmates left flowers and painted stones at Brookeʼs parking spot. The teen was remembered as a leader in youth groups, a tennis player, and a friend who “was always smiling and looking to help others.”

A GoFundMe launched last fall has raised more than $190,000 for Max Dryerman, with funds directed toward his education and charities the family supported.

Whatʼs next

The Sept. 17 court conference will be the first step in setting a timeline for discovery and motions. Both sides have demanded a jury, setting the stage for what could be a long and certainly closely watched case.

Editorʼs note: Allegations come from the complaint. Teslaʼs denials are from its answer filed July 30. No court has ruled on the merits.

Related, a Miami, Fla. jury Tesla to pay $243 million over a 2019 Autopilot crash in Key Largo that killed vides Leon, 22, and seriously injured her boyfriend,

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

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

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

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-

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

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

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

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

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.

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.

Dining & Cooking Guide

Towns:

The advisory committeeʼs recommendations will be considered at a public hearing Thursday, Sept. 25 at 6:30 p.m. in the Count y Commissioners Meeting Room, 5th Floor, County Administration Building, One Bergen County Plaza, Hackensack. Projects are slated to begin this Nov. 12 and conclude by Nov. 12, 2027, officials said.

Written comments may be submitted by mail to Kenneth A loisio, Trust Fund Executive Director, Division of Land Management, Bergen County Administration Building, One Bergen County Plaza, Hackensack, NJ 0 7601, or by email to k aloisio@co.bergen.nj.us (preferred).

Pascack Valley projects

Park Ridgeʼs $232,000 grant will support acquisition of the Frederick Wortendyke Homestead at 12 Pascack Road. [For the story, see “Historic home in boroughʼs reach” by Michael Olohan in the Jan. 26, 2025 Pascack Press.]

The house was built around 1750–1755 by Frederick Wortendyke Jr. on part of a 465-acre tract purchased by his father, Frederick Sr., in 1735. Mayor Misciagna noted the borough aims to preserve the homestead

A marker erected by Bergen County Historical Society reads, “Frederick Wortendyke Jr. built the original sandstone section of this farmhouse in the 1750’s. Located at ‘Pascack’ on land purchased by his father in 1735, the tract included nearly a third of present-day Park Ridge. The homestead was enlarged before 1775 and was further expanded and remodeled over the years. It remained in the Wortendyke family until 1851.”

ahead of the nationʼs 250th anniversary in 2026: “This purchase and preservation will allow the next generation, and future generations, to learn and celebrate our past.”

Across the street, the countyʼs Division of Historic & Cultural Affairs was awarded $50,000 for improvements at the Wortendyke Barn, which operates as an agricultural museum and event site.

In Montvale, the borough received a $75,000 Historic Project Preservation grant to create a Historic Preservation Plan and

Design for the J.J. Blauvelt Octagon House, acquired in 2021. The mid-19th-century structure, prominently featured on Montvaleʼs seal, has served over the years as a residence, hotel, restaurant, and office space.

In River Vale, the countyʼs Division of Historic & Cultural Affairs will receive $100,000 for archaeology monitoring at the Baylor Massacre site.

Seven Pascack Valley towns received park improvement grants:

• Emerson, Ackerman Park: Six playground units and shade

structures, $75,500

• H illsdale , Beechwood Park: Pavilion near bandshell, $74,986

M ontvale, Memorial, Railroad, and Fountain Parks: Benches and A DA sidewalk path improvements, $80,704

• River Vale, Town Hall: Reconstruction of tennis courts, $80,704

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

EMERSON

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.

Coffee and cake will be served, and Rosemarie Brill will demonstrate the lovely art of picture frame decorating. Everybody gets one.

Additional club notes (save the date):

• Sign up for the Italian Festival, Sept. 20.

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

This is one to attend. Club president Mary Cerrati says, “See you there!”

Capitol honors as Emma Chance celebrates her 101st

U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) stopped by Brookdale Emerson Assisted Living on Sept. 2 to help mark a remarkable milestone: the 101st birthday of longtime North Jersey resident Emma Chance.

Gottheimer joined Bergen County Commissioner Germaine Ortiz (of Emerson), Brookdale staff, and fellow residents for the celebration, arriving with a birthday cake, a proclamation, and a U.S. flag flown over the Capitol in

Emmaʼs honor. He also thanked the nursing home team for their dedication to seniors across the region.

“It was incredible to celebrate Emmaʼs 101st birthday here in Emerson,” Gottheimer said.

“As a lifelong North Jersey resident, her story and commitment to family are truly inspiring. Our seniors are the heart of our community, and I am grateful to the dedicated staff who care for them every day ”

Emma Chance was born in Hoboken on Aug. 31, 1924. In her younger years she worked at a Five and Dime General Store before marrying her late husband, William Chance, with whom she shared 30 years of marriage. A mother of three, she now counts five grandchildren, four greatgrandchildren, and three greatgreat-grandchildren among her blessings. Emma has been a resident of Brookdale Emerson for nearly four years.

— Staff report based on a submission from the office of U.S. Rep Josh Gottheimer

Post 153, Park Ridge annual 9/11 remembrance

American Legion Post 153 and the Borough of Park Ridge will remember not only the seven Park Ridge residents who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001, but all those Americans who perished on and around that tragic day The community is invited on Thursday, Sept. 11, at 6:30 p.m. in VeteransʼPark. In the event of rain, the program will be moved to the pavilion behind Borough Hall. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5) is keynote speaker. All local scouts are asked to attend in uniform, and the public is encouraged to participate. The program include a candle lighting, the presentation of wreaths, and the lowering of the American flag to half-staff.

U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5) visits with Emerson resident Emma Chance at Brookdale Emerson Assisted Living, bestowing honors on the happy event of her 101st birthday. Screenshots from video sent by the office of Josh Gottheimer..

PARK RIDGE

Joey’s Fund Car Show Returns to Closter

Engines will rev and chrome will gleam at Closter Plaza on Sunday, Oct. 5, when Joeyʼs Fund hosts its 11th Annual Charity Car Show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (rain date Oct. 12).

The event promises classic cars, trophies, a DJ, raffles, food trucks, vendors, and familyfriendly games. Behind the fun lies a serious mission: easing the financial and emotional toll of cancer on patients and their loved ones.

Founded in Palisades Park by Tony DeCarlo, Joeyʼs Fund has raised nearly $95,000 since 2018 in support of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) and other nonprofits. Last yearʼs show alone brought in $20,000.

Annual gifts include $600 to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital, $600 to the Make-AWish Foundation, and $300 to the American Red Cross. In addition, the group has supported Ronald McDonald House of Florida, and this year donated $6,000 to Johns Hopkins All Childrenʼs Hospital of Florida.

“All of it goes directly to organizations that keep families together while they navigate lifethreatening illness,” DeCarlo said.

In 2023 alone, those funds directed $4.2 million to 2,000 patients — a 7.7% increase from 2022.

Most patients receive up to $5,000 per year, though emergency cases may exceed that.

The impact is tangible. A woman in her 50s with advanced breast cancer, caring for her disabled adult son after her unemployment benefits ended, received 2,484 for rent, utilities, and groceries. A toddler with a retinal as able to access treat-

At MSK, donations power two lifelines: the Financial Assistance Program, which helps cover treatment costs like co-pays and deductibles, and the Social Work Patient Fund, which provides grants for housing, utilities, food, childcare, and transportation.

ment despite his familyʼs limited income. One patient with brain metastases used a 1,000 grant to bring loved ones from overseas to New York for a final visit.

“These are the human stories behind the stat istics, ” DeCarlo said.

“Every dollar raised at the car show makes sure patients can focus on care and families can focus on being together.”

MSK officials say the need is

growing, and they anticipate increasing distributions as donor support allows. Screening surveys now help identify patients in financial crisis early, automatically connecting them to the right resources.

For car lovers, the Oct. 5 show offers competition and camaraderie. For the community,

itʼs a chance to make a difference. Joeyʼs Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all proceeds go directly to patient-centered charities.

To sponsor, register a car, or donate, visit joeyscharityfund.org or email donations@joeyscharityfund.org.

“This event is about joy, cars, and community,” DeCarlo said. “But at its heart, itʼs about families who shouldnʼt have to fight cancer alone.”

Car fair lets kids take the wheel of history Sept.

Step aside, car shows for grown-ups. The Park Ridge Recreation Committee, in partnership with DrivinʼNews (drivinnews.com), invites families to the Second Annual Collectible Car Fair for Kids and Teens on Sunday, Sept. 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Colony Field.

Billed as a “field of driving dreams,” the event gives young people ages 10–18 a rare, handson chance to experience 30 of the most exciting and influential automobiles of the 20th century. Students can climb behind the wheel, pose for photos, and explore iconic vehicles that revolutionized transportation and culture.

Among the classics expected: a 1903 Curved Dash Oldsmobile, 1915 Ford Model T, 1943 WWII Willyʼs Jeep, 1956 Cadillac Coupe deVille, 1961 C1 Corvette, 1970 Pontiac GTO, 1973 Porsche 911 Targa, and a 1982 Ferrari 308GTSi.

The cars will be staffed by their owners, men and women from the Collectible Automobiles as a Passion class at Ridgewood

PUBLIC NOTICE

Community School. Enthusiasts will be on hand to share the stories behind each carefully preserved model.

Head of the class For students eager to go deeper, a special concours judging class will be offered before the fair. Up to 24 students can register on a first-come, first-served basis (with a waitlist for cancellations).

Taught by an experienced judge, the class will explain how vehicles are evaluated at competitive shows. Students who complete the training will help judge the cars on display and receive a certificate of recognition.

The fair also features a “Fun Hunt for Car Facts” scavenger game and a presentation from the nonprofit Piston Foundation, which will highlight scholarships and apprenticeship opportunities in the automotive trades.

“Car events are everywhere, but nothing like this for students,” said Burton Hall, publisher of DrivinʼNews and event originator, who is producing the fair with the

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

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

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

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

Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee.

Registration forms for judging are available at parkridgeboro.com and must be mailed to Park Ridge Recreation, Borough Hall, 53 Park Ave., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. For questions, call 201573-1800 ext. 521.

When to claim your Social Security benefits

WHENIT comes to Social Security and retirement, you may have conflicting viewpoints: On one side, you may hope to collect your benefits as soon as you are eligible due to cash flow needs or other goals. On the other side, you know that if you wait, your monthly benefit amount will be greater.

While it may make sense to wait as long as you can, Sherman Hohen-

berger, lead business growth strategy consultant at Wealth & Investment Management, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., recommends you reevaluate your situation every year in retirement before deciding whether to continue delaying the beginning of Social Security benefits.

“Because each individual, couple, widow, and widower has a unique lifestyle and unique income needs, I believe a year-by-year evaluation prior to beginning benefits is the best approach,” Hohenberger says.

One item you need for that annual retirement review is a current copy of your Social Security benefit estimate

from ssa.gov. This provides personalized estimates of future benefits based on your real earnings and lets you see your latest statement and your earnings history. Here, Hohenberger outlines a comparison of claiming now vs. later and offers key considerations as you review your strategy each year.

Comparison:

Claiming sooner vs. later

Letʼs start with a hypothetical example: John Doe was born in 1960, is retired, and he decided to claim benefits as soon as he became eligible at age 62, or five years before his full retirement benefit age of 67. His

monthly benefit in todayʼs dollars is $2,106. If he had delayed receiving benefits until he was 70, heʼd receive $1,625 more a month, or $3,731. And he would make up for the eight-year delay in not taking any benefits in about 10 years. “Unlike personal assets that can be exhausted, Social Security is a vast resource provided by the U. S. government. As long as you are alive, you should continue to receive your Social Security benefits and with a cost-of-living adjustment throughout your retirement years.”

Make wellness a deciding factor

Your health can play a big role in helping determine when you should start taking benefits. Do your loved ones live long lives, or have most succumbed to illness before age 65? “Itʼs not the most accurate indicator of whatʼs going to transpire in the future, but it can have some bearing, and therefore should be taken into consideration,” Hohenberger says.

“If youʼre in reasonably good health and anticipate a continued healthy lifestyle, that usually counsels in favor of waiting,” he continues. “If, on the other hand, youʼre in poorer health and have concerns about longevity, that counsels toward drawing benefits sooner rather than later.”

Do you have enough income?

Another key factor is having other sources of income to help you live comfortably in retirement without needing Social Security benefits. He says you should consider the rate of return Social Security offers: 6.25% –8.00% (plus a cost-of-living increase).

“I ask: ʻIs that an attractive return to you over the next 12 months?ʼ” he says. “And given the current interest rate environment and unpredictability of the securities markets, the response is typically a resounding yes.”

Considerations for married couples

Hohenberger suggests married clients look at multiple factors when determining the timing for each spouse to claim Social Security benefits.

For example, if youʼre working part time or seasonally, your Social Security benefits may be dramatically lower if your partner is working 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.

ERIC KOHLMEIER

Letters:

tribute to school funding. This means that while the town may see an increase in revenue, our schools will be forced to absorb massive new costs with no dedicated funding. That shortfall will have to be covered by current residents, leading to higher taxes and strained resources.

We cannot afford to treat this as simply a “good deal” for t he town budget without acknowledging the hidden con-

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

Westwood Regional 45th reunion bash

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

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

sequences. Our elected officials should not approve any PILOT a rrangement that shifts the financial burden of educating hundreds of new students onto todayʼs taxpayers. Growth must be balanced, and school funding must be part of the equation.

Bert Taylor Woodcliff Lake

More signed for recall than voted for Fisher

To the editor:

I N 2023 , I learned that Robert Fisher Jr., after having had the opposition candidateʼs petition thrown out on a technicality, was running for Park Ridge BOE. Believing that he would be an agent of chaos, based on his endorsement by Moms for Liberty, and knowing him to be a disrespectful and uncooperative young man, based on my personal experience of witnessing his refusal to comply with requests by the League of Women Voters to cover a campaign T-shirt at an organized debate, I decided to launch a write-in campaign that was registered with the election commission.

Two years later, after being dissatisfied with Mr. Fisherʼs job performance, the people of Park Ridge decided they wanted to recall him and therefore gathered 2,141 signatures to do so. Once ag ain Mr. Fisher chal -

lenged and had the petition opposing him thrown out on a technicality. [County nixes Fisher recall effort—petition wasnʼt n otarized; petition leaders say S uperior Court challenge is next” by Michael Olohan

In a press release published on Facebook by Moms For Liberty Bergen County chair Alexandra Bougher, Mr. Fisher accused the petitioners of trying to subvert the will of Park Ridge voters—when it is he and his

Woman’s

Club gives thanks on fundraiser

To the editor:

WETHANK everyone for their generosity by contributing to our “shake the can” scholarship fundraiser. The scholarship is open to all female, graduating seniors residing in Westwood and Washington Township regardless of which high school they attend.

supporters who are doing so. In 2023ʼs election Mr. Fisher received only 1,370 votes, the fewest of the three unopposed candidates on the ballot. Two thousand one hundred and fortyone citizens, a full 770 more than who voted for him, signed to put him back on the ballot. Mr. Fisher, who is now a fullt ime college student in Tennessee and whose father sold his property in Park Ridge, is using his legal team to impose himself

on a community that no longer wants him in office.

A s the recall committee has stated, “How can someone represent our community when they are not even part of it?” I note that he has not attended the last two Board of Education meetings, including one that took place in June when college students are on summer break.

Applications will be available in the high school guidance offices in the spring or by emailing westwoodwomansclub@gmail.com for an electronic copy. Special thanks to The Fresh Grocer in Washington Township for giving us permission to set up outside the store.

The Womanʼs Club of Westwood is a non-profit, volunteer organization. Women who would like more information about the club are welcome to call (201) 916-1580 or visit us at westwoodwomans.club.org.

Madeleine Ciocco Womanʼs Club of Westwood

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

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

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

Checks should be made out to John Tesoriero and mailed to: John Tesoriero 45 Church St. Apt D-1 Montclair, NJ 07042

For more information, email jbartolophoto@gmail.com.

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

Lori Fredrics Park Ridge

Members of the GFWC/NJSFWC Woman's Club of Westwood, including Madeleine Ciocco, Barbara Marino, Joan McKoy, and president Deen J. Meloro, gather outside The Fresh Grocer in Washington Township on Saturday, Aug. 30 to collect donations for the club’s scholarship fund.

• Township of Washington, Memorial and Clark Field: ADA seating, parking, and playground,

$80,704

• Westwood , McKinley Park: ADA-compliant playground, $80,704

• Woodcliff Lake, Tennis Courts: Reconstruction, fencing, lighting, nets, and landscaping, $80,704

Apple:

FROM PAGE 3

best wishes as they commence operations at their new location. I look forward to touring the facility and building a good relationship, as I have with our other schools.”

The siteʼs redevelopment follows a winding history. Apple Montessori first proposed buying it for $1.35 million in early 2022, but the township threatened eminent domain to build a Department of Public Works facility. After nearby residents and Paramus neighbors objected, the council briefly considered siting a new police department there. That idea also fizzled.

Concerns about possible contamination from a former gas station on the parcel led officials to abandon interest, and bids for a DPW facility are now being solicited separately.

Apple renewed its bid, found no environmental concerns, and in 2023 won approval to construct a preschool for children 6 months to 6 years old, deemed an “inherently beneficial use.”

“Paramus” location

Though the school is squarely in the township, Apple is calling the site its “Paramus” location. The sign above the drop-off area

A pple Montessori School a t 95 Linwood Ave. in Washington Township opened for children on Sept. 3. A ribbon cutting is planned for October. The school replaces a long defunct Charlie Brown’s restaurant, below. Photos: school, Mike Olohan; restaurant, John Snyder.

reads “Apple Montessori Schools,” while online the site appears as “Apple Montessori Schools Paramus.”

Amon said the name avoids confusion with “at least five” other Washington Townships statewide. “It wasnʼt a simple decision,” she said. “There was no disrespect intended. We love this community.”

(Mayor Calamari said, “I do not have a comment on their decision to market themselves as being in Paramus as opposed to the Township, but I hope it doesnʼt cause confusion for those searching for them.”)

The two-story building features natural hardwood birch floors, zoned outdoor play areas, a pool, and a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) workroom. A disinfecting machine known as the Zono sani-

tizes classroom supplies and toys.

Classrooms and activity areas are arranged by age group. A dropoff lane allows parents to pull up while staff escort children inside.

Amon said the school will create 60 local jobs. Approximately 30 staff are in place, including teachers, administrators, custodians, and lifeguards.

The school operates weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a summer camp program in July and August.

A grand opening ribbon-cutting is planned for early October, Apple officials said.

“We started looking at this property four years ago,” said Amon. “To see our vision realized is incredibly rewarding. This school reflects both the highest standards in early childhood education and the spirit of partnership within the community.”

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

BERGEN COUNTY

Musical Munchkins and Friends Celebrate

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For 25 years, Musical Munchkins has been bringing the joy of music to Bergen Countyʼs youngest learners—and the celebration continues this fall with a new class location in River Edge.

Designed as a childʼs first group learning experience, Musical Munchkins classes invite caregivers to actively participate in fun, ageappropriate activities that build lifelong skills.

While each class is a musical adventure, the benefits reach far beyond the songs:

• Language Development: Singing and vocal play help children absorb new words and the rhythms of speech.

Twenty-five years of joyful learning in Bergen County Families invited: Come make music, friends, and memories

Classes run this fall at Kol Dorot Jewish Center,385 Howland Ave in River Edge,and at Trinity Episcopal Church,55 George St.in Allendale.

• Social Skills: Dancing, singing, and playing instruments together encourage cooperation and connection.

• Emotional Growth: Music lifts moods, reduces stress, and helps children express their feelings.

• Motor Skills: From clap-

Club News?

Let us help promote your club or organization. Send all news to pascackpress@thepressgroup.net or mail to: Pascack Press, P.O. Box 335, Westwood, NJ 07675

ping and running to gripping and shaking instruments, children develop both fine and gross motor coordination.

• Creativity: Making music sparks imagination, inspiring chil-

dren to think in new and creative ways.

This fall, families can enjoy classes at Kol Dorot Jewish Center, 385 Howland Ave., River Edge, in addition to the beloved longtime location at Trinity Episcopal Church, 55 George St., Allendale.

“We are so excited to celebrate 25 years of Musical Munchkins in Bergen County,” said the programʼs leadership. “We thank our families for their patronage and look forward to many more years of learning and laughter through music.”

For more information and to register, visit musicalmunchkinsnewjersey.com or email munchkinsnj@gmail.com.

Come make music, friends, and memories with Musical Munchkins! We look forward to seeing you in class!

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

DR. KAPLAN: Natural pain management strategies

September is National Pain Awareness Month — a time to shed light on the widespread issue of chronic pain and to highlight healthy, non-pharmacological strategies that can make a

real difference. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 50 million U.S. adults live with chronic pain, defined as pain that persists or recurs for more than three months.

The causes of chronic pain are diverse: posture problems from long hours at computers and smartphones, poor sleep positions, stress, sedentary lifestyles, and

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chronic conditions such as arthritis, Lyme disease, and long COVID. The common thread is that pain affects quality of life — limiting mobility, productivity, and even social connection.

At Kaplan Brain & Body, we believe in a whole-person, natural approach to pain management.

Here are strategies, supported by research, that can help people function better and feel better in their daily lives.

Posture, sleep, and movement

• Mind your posture: Forward head posture or “text neck” places significant strain on the cervical spine. Simple adjustments — raising devices to eye level, strengthening neck and back muscles — can reduce strain.

• Supportive sleep: The right pillow and mattress can make a profound difference in spinal alignment, reducing morning stiffness or pain.

• Break up sitting time: Standing, stretching, or walking for a few minutes every half hour helps circulation and relieves pressure on the spine and joints.

Exercise and physical activity

Regular exercise is one of the most effective natural pain relievers. Aerobic activity like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling releases endorphins — the bodyʼs natural pain-dampening chemicals. Resistance training builds muscle support around joints, protecting against everyday strain. Importantly, activity can be tailored to a personʼs ability level, starting small and building gradually.

Nutrition and hydration

Diet plays an important role in inflammation, which is often tied to pain. Diets rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon, flax, or walnuts) have been shown to reduce markers of inflammation. Limiting added sugars and highly processed foods can also support joint and metabolic health.

Hydration matters, too. Water cushions joints and supports muscle function. Simply drinking enough water throughout the day is a low-cost way to help the body manage stress and pain.

Stress and mind-body connection

Stress can amplify pain. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, guided breathing, and yoga not only promote relaxation but have been shown to lower pain perception. These approaches also help improve sleep, which itself is crucial for recovery and repair.

Advanced tools: qEEG brain mapping

For individuals whose pain is linked to stress, trauma, or neurological imbalance, advanced tools can provide deeper insight. Quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) is a non-invasive brainmapping technology that measures

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, DC, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, DC

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

Neurolens brings relief to millions struggling with eye strain, headaches

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Neurolens is changing the way people experience vision by targeting one of the hidden causes of everyday discomfort — eye misalignment. With more time spent on c omputers, phones, and tablets than ever before, many people suffer from symptoms like tired eyes, frequent headaches, neck pain, and difficulty focusing. These issues often arenʼt solved by standard glasses or contact lenses. Neu-

rolens is different. Using a unique lens design, Neurolens helps gently realign the eyes, easing the strain that builds up uring long periods of screen time or closeup work.

Patients who wear Neurolens often report lifechanging i mprovements, including fewer headaches, more energy, and sharper focus throughout the day. In fact, most people notice relief soon after making the switch.

‘10 Warning Signs of

The Alzheimerʼs Association will host a free community program, 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimerʼs, on Thursday, Sept. 25, at 5:30 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 32 Pascack Road, Woodcliff Lake.

The program will help participants learn the difference between normal aging and Alzheimerʼs disease, recognize common warning

KAPLAN:

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

brainwave activity and helps identify patterns associated with chronic pain.

By understanding how the brain processes pain, providers can better guide personalized interventions such as neurofeedback, meditation, or biofeedback training. Research has shown qEEG-guided strategies can help reduce the intensity and impact of chronic pain by optimizing brain function.

CALLING

ALL CAREGIVERS: MEETING SEPT. 13 WESTWOOD

Are you supporting a loved one through a suspicion or diagnosis disease of the brain (such as stroke, Parkinsonʼs, Alzheimerʼs or one of the dementias)? Join others in a kind, supportive and nurturing group that meets to offer support, advice, ideas and guidance through open communication.

The next meeting is Sept. 13 at 10:30 a.m. at the Westwood Public Library, 49 Park Ave. All are welcome to attend. Drop in. Sessions have a facilitator from the Alzheimer's Association of Bergen County.

Many people assume eye discomfort is just part of daily life in a digital world. Neurolens gives patients a simple solution that

helps them feel and perform their best. Book your Neurolens Eye Examination at River Vale Eye-

care with Dr. Robin Semegran or Dr. Alyssa Zoll at 201-664-5596. River Vale Eyecare is at 688 Westwood Ave.

Alzheimer’s’

signs, and understand the importance of early detection.

It will also cover the distinctions between Alzheimerʼs and dementia and outline next steps for those who may have concerns about themselves or a loved one.

The session will be presented by Alzheimerʼs Association Community Educator Terry Ciulla and is hosted by Pastor Marc Stutzel of

Special offer for Pain Awareness Month In recognition of National Pain Awareness Month, Kaplan Brain & Body is offering qEEG brain mapping — normally $600 — for only $21. This limited-time offer is designed to give people affordable

Sept. 25

Christ Lutheran Church. Light food and refreshments will be provided.

Organizers encourage residents to bring a friend or family member. The event runs from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and is free to attend.

To register, visit action.alz.org/mtg/735298497 or call the Alzheimerʼs Association at 800-272-3900.

access to cutting-edge diagnostic tools that can help guide a natural pain-management plan.

• Call or text 201-261-2150 •Email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com

• Visit www.kaplandc.com

Function Better, Feel Better, Live Better!

PASCACK VALLEY

Ask the Dentist: Why save a back tooth?

Question:

My dentist wants me to save my back tooth, but I donʼt feel I need it. I canʼt see it anyway. Do I really need to save it? P.L. –Montvale, NJ

Answer: There are many important reasons to save a back tooth (molar tooth). The back teeth are there for heavy chewing and crushing of food and are built for that purpose. Although you may not see the tooth, eventually that missing tooth will cause problems for your front teeth as forces are shifted forward and teeth move out of place. Additionally, other teeth behind or above/below a missing tooth space will shift and become crooked. People often break other teeth shortly after losing a back tooth because the whole chewing mechanism is compromised when one part is missing.

Think of a watch functioning

without one of its gears or a transmission working with part missing. The missing tooth will cause alterations in chewing patterns as the person compensates for the change. Long term, tooth loss leads to bite collapse and facial deformity.

Have you ever seen an elderly person chewing and having their nose look like itʼs going to touch their chin. This is the end result of bite collapse. Joint and muscle pain are also potential problems related to tooth loss and bite changes.

Teeth are often saved with a crown, root canal and other restoration, or if the tooth cannot be saved it can be replaced with a fixed bridge or implant. You should discuss your options with your dentist, but keeping that tooth you canʼt see is a wise investment.

For questions about this or other dental procedures contact Dr Guller at askdrguller@aol.com or call (201) 391-5565.

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ROBERT H. GULLER, D.M.D OF PASCACK DENTAL ARTS

S FROM PAGE 1

many, this was their first taste of endurance sports, and the energy on race day was just incredible.”

That energy carried through the course and into the finish chute, where finishers were quick to praise the organization and volunteer support. “Best race ever,” one participant gushed, while others called it “professional” and “inspiring.”

The kids werenʼt to be outdone. The Splash & Dash featured

a longer 100-meter swim and 1,000-meter run this year, and young athletes took it on with grit and smiles, cheered on by parents and spectators lining the course.

But the impact of the PV Tri stretched well beyond the finish line. Together, participants, sponsors, and volunteers raised $3,000 for local causes: $1,000 for Girls on the Run NJ North, $2,000 for the Police Unity Tour, plus food donations for the Helping Hands Food Pantry.

Community support ran deep.

The Hillsdale Police Department and EMS, River Vale Police Department, and a small army of

volunteers kept the event safe and smooth. Sponsors including Next Level Physio, Freedom Bank, Guerilla Fitness, Valley Bank, Runnerʼs House of River Vale, and Ninoʼs Pizza made the day possi-

Woman’s Club of WW resumes meetings

Sept. 11

ble, underscoring the tight bonds between Pascack Valley businesses and community health.

Organizers are already looking ahead. The next Team Next Level event, the Kick or Treat 5K, is set for Sunday, Oct. 5 at 8:30 a.m. at Stonybrook Swim Club. Costumes are encouraged, pro-

ceeds will benefit the Pascack Valley High School Girls Soccer Team, and runners of all levels are welcome.

Registration is open at my.raceresult.com/350840.

by Erica Chin, mewcaw photography

Emerson seniors meet

Sept. 11

The NJSFWC/GFWC Womanʼs Club of Westwood will hold its first meeting of the fall season on Thursday, Sept. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the clubhouse, 205 Kinderkamack Road. Members and guests will hear about ideas and projects for the year ahead. New members are always welcome. For more information, call 201916-1580 or visit westwoodwomansclub.org.

The Emerson Senior Citizens will hold their monthly membership meeting on Thursday, Sept. 11, at noon at the Clubhouse, 20 Palisade Ave. Refreshments will be served. Guest speaker Doron Maresky of the New Jersey Brain Health Center in Englewood will present a program on the centerʼs mission. The center provides comprehensive, compassionate care for individuals experiencing memory impairment, balance issues, and dizziness.

Senior Friendship Club meets

Sept. 15

Following its July–August summer break, the River Vale Senior Friendship Club resumes meetings on Monday, Sept. 15. The doors open at noon; themeeting begins at 12:30. A light lunch will be served for members. New members are welcome; the membership fee is $7.50 for the remainder of the year. For information about joining, call Angie at 201-666-3888.

Photos

Schuster family: Rachel, Max, Jack, and Matt Schuster of Glen Rock competed as a family relay team.

Alexa Koh, student volunteer coordinator, keeps everything on track.

Race Director James Koh presents $1,000 to Maureen Dykstra, Director of Girls on the Run NJ North.

EMERSON

RIVER VALE

Flood:

flood damage, among other changes.

Under current law, National Flood Insurance premiums can increase by no more than 18% a year. Some lawmakers have suggested reducing that cap to 9%.

The National Flood Insurance Program is distressed by premiums driven by a small share of extremely high-risk properties that repeatedly flood.

As premiums rise, more policyholders move to private plans or forgo flood insur-

ance because they can no longer afford it. Smaller subscriber pools inflate risk and drive up premiums, pushing more policyholders away in a vicious cycle not unlike the one faced by New Jersey’s State Health Benefits Program for local government workers.

Further distress in the federal flood insurance prog ram could expose New Jersey to a slew of weatherrelated economic risks. The program provides more than $52.8 billion in flood coverage to nearly 200,000 New Jersey properties, according to Federal Emergency Management Agency data.

New Jersey has seen a

slew of flash floods this summer, including July floods in Plainfield and North Plainfield that left five dead, and the state has faced billions of dollars in economic d amages following severe storms like Hurricanes Sandy and Ida in past years.

In a letter sent to interested parties, the senators requested input on a range of topics, including whether the federal government should be required to update flood maps more often, whether to expand buyouts of properties that repeatedly flood, and how to handle the program’s more than $22.5 billion debts, among dozens of others.

ByNikita Biryukov

for New Jersey Monitor (NewJerseyMonitor.com). Originally published Aug. 26, 2025. Shared under Creative Commons license.

Finch goes gold on food allergy project

Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey congratulates Alyssa Finch of River Vale, who has earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award for her project, Food Allergy Awareness.

Through community presentations and YouTube videos, Alyssa set out to dispel common misconceptions about food allergies and to give families practical ways to stay safe. She highlighted the risks of severe reactions such as life-threatening anaphylaxis, and showed how simple steps — like supporting the Teal Pumpkin Project — can make a big difference.

The Teal Pumpkin Project

encourages households to offer nonfood treats on Halloween so children with allergies can join in trick-ortreating with their friends.

“The number of people with food allergies has been increasing, but the number of people educated about how allergies work is not,” Alyssa said. “Bullying, teasing, and harassment are reported at a higher rate among children with food allergies, and I hope that peer education will reduce this problem.”

We last noted Alyssa in these pages when the talented Academy of the Holy Angels student was selected for the 2024 High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall.

Gold Award Girl Scouts are recognized for identifying an issue in their community and developing a sustainable solution. Alyssa joins the 2025 Gold Award class, which

MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

Join our ever growing sales team as as Sales Associate for the Pascack Press, Northern Valley Press North and South and near future publications. Applicants should be self-starters with drive to succeed. In this position, you will sell advertising space to new and existing accounts into our weekly newspapers and various other publications as well as digital media. Responsibilities will also include cold calling, outside sales and excellent customer service. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 201-664-2105 OR SEND RESUME TO: jobs@thepressgroup.net

addressed issues ranging from environmental sustainability to mental and physical well-being.

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, earned by fewer than 6 percent of Girl Scouts nationwide. For more information about Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey, visit www.gsnnj.org or call (973) 248-8200.

RIVER VALE

ALYSSA FINCH

School:

Miss Fannie M. Casine, who received an annual salary of $60. The total operating costs in the school’s first year came to $750. The New York Sun wrote

on Sept. 30, 1895, "The building…is built of stones gathered from surrounding farms by the farmers’ sons. The structure is unique in exterior appearance and has the latest improvements inside. It is, in all respects, the finest country school in the state."

During the 1898–1899 year the school was able to raise $24

from local families and $20 through a state grant that enabled the purchase of a bookcase and some books—the school’s first library. In 1900 there were 329 people living in Woodcliff, including 83 schoolage children. Still, only approximately 40 kids attended school on any given day. It was a time before compulsory attendance laws, when during certain sea-

sons chores around the farm took precedence over the three Rs. When the school had its centennial, former student Harriet Van Riper Tice (1901–1999) recalled her school days there starting in 1907. Her classes consisted of geography, civics, grammar, history, spelling, arithmetic, hygiene, and penmanship. The girls wore dresses

with long stockings, and the boys wore knickers with their shirts neatly tucked in.

Tice recalled walking 2.5 miles to school from the family farm on Chestnut Ridge Road. The schoolhouse did not have a toilet, only an outhouse. She said the start of the school year felt like a vacation—a break from her chores on the farm.

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

•

•

Sometimes even good people get into bad trouble...a mistake in judgement...a careless moment...an act out of desperation, and before you know it you find yourself with serious legal problems. This can be frightening for most of us. One thing for sure...those problems won’t go away by themselves, and without proper legal representation they may even get worse.

Our attorneys handle situations like yours on a daily basis and are prepared to help you get the best possible results whether you are faced with a civil matter, a criminal matter or whether you are trying to have an earlier charge, arrest or conviction expunged.

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 to 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.

BOROUGH OF HILLSDALE – P/TCONSTRUCTION

OFFICIAL - The Borough of Hillsdale is seeking a parttime Construction Official, HHS Building Subcode Official. Approximately 20 hours per week. Applicants must hold a valid Construction Official license issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Certification in FEMAflood 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.

HELPWANTED - Bather needed Tuesday thru Saturday at dog salon. Call Elizabeth 201-444-0656

H

H

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. The Borough reserves the right to interview candidates prior to the expiration of the job posting.EOE.

Book keeper, Tenafly on site, exp. Quick Books, Accounting, Call 917-374-1033

Parking Enforcement Officer – Borough of Westwood. Part-time position (10–15 hrs/week) including Saturdays. Responsibilities include identifying and issuing parking citations. Must communicate effectively, handle public interactions, and work outdoors in all weather. Requires standing/walking for 4-plus hrs/day and lifting up to 25 lbs. Valid NJ driver’s license and background check required. Apply by Aug. 8, 2025: Send resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to Carol Knubel, Parking Utility Administrator: cknubel@westwoodnj .gov. EOE. The Borough may interview/hire as applications are received.

and spacious master bedroom with closet, modern kitchen,

text or call 973592-2678 Denisse.

tunity.