NORTHERN VALLEY MARCH. 2026X

KITCHEN’

The Community Chest’s ‘Women in the Holocaust’ series pairs dishes from the Terezín ghetto with art and stories

Old Tappan family man, ECPD captain, built a career serving and protecting

Pages 16–17

‘EVERY GALLON COUNTS’

A reservoir levels remain far below normal despite recent snows, Veolia urges conservation

Donʼt let the recent snow — what a pounding — and rain fool you: New Jerseyʼs key reservoirs remain well below normal levels, prompting Veolia to ask the roughly 1.1 million residents it serves statewide to continue water conservation.

Reservoirs in northern New Jersey, which are typically full at this time of year, are at just 43% capacity, Veolia said. The Oradell Reservoir is lower, at 37%. Recent snow and rainfall have provided minimal relief

“The reservoirs are under stress,” said Alan Weland,

Friends in Old Tappan started a GoFundMe for Capt. Keith Wicker’s family to ease their burden as he battled cancer; organizers say donations surpassed $125,000 in under a week, with proceeds benefiting his wife, Amy, and their children. The Borough of Engewood Cliffs and the local policemen’s union have been at odds on benefits. Via GoFundMe.

BY JOHNSNYDER OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

POLICE CAPT. Keith Wicker, a 25-year veteran of the Englewood Cliffs Police Department, died Friday morning, Feb. 20, following a

S SOOAARRIINNG G S SAAOORRI I

long and valiant battle with cancer. He was 51.

A GoFundMe campaign organized by Christina Fornazor on behalf of friends to support the family had raised more than $182,000 as of press time. In the appeal, Forna-

The Rotary Club of Englewood launches the next phase of its Community SAORI Tapestry Project.

zor described Wicker as “a devoted member of St. Pius Church in Old Tappan,” adding that he lived there with his wife, Amy, and their children, Charlie and Paige.

See WICKERpage 18

Piano recital by E’wood’s Victoria Schwartzman March 15;Carriage House concerts ‘Roots’ March 22

BY JOHNSNYDER OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

Tucked behind the Presbyterian Church at Tenafly is an old stone chapel — a small, resonant room that feels built for chamber music and close listening. This spring, it will serve as the setting for one of two concerts in the churchʼs arts outreach program, which aims to bring neighbors together through shared arts experiences across differences of culture, ethnicity, religion and politics.

The Carriage House Concerts continue Sunday, March 22, at 5 p.m. in the old stone chapel at 55 Magnolia Ave. The program, “Roots,” features cellist Ani Kalayjian, joined by violinists Kobi Malkin and Siwoo Kim and

See PCATpage 26

B ck in time... B ck in time...

De La Rosa on policing, technology, and mental health

ENGLEWOOD

DEPUTY POLICE CHIEF

Matthew De La Rosa has served with the Englewood Police Department since 2002, working assignments that range from patrol and investigations to training and administration.

This month, De La Rosa discusses his work on a Homeland Security Investigations task force focused on financial crimes, and how policing has shifted since he entered the profession. He also reflects on the emotional toll officers can face, the departmentʼs emphasis on resiliency supports, and the outreach efforts he says are helping strengthen connections with Englewood residents.

Viders: You have so many credentials, itʼs hard to single out just a few. But I think that everyone is very interested in homeland security. What work do you do as a NJ State Police Task Force Officer for the Homeland Security Investigations?

De La Rosa: While assigned to HSI I was fortunate to be part of a group that mainly dealt with illegal activity and money laundering. I ended up as the case agent where multiple parties laundered over $100 million using variations of trade-based money laundering as well as black market peso exchange techniques. The case went to trial where we secured a guilty verdict. I was able to use my accounting and finance back-

ground to trace all these funds and bring these individuals to justice.

Viders: How is Englewood prepared for national security?

De La Rosa: We are consistently communicating with our state and federal partners to address and prepare for any threats against the homeland. We take these threats very seriously and prepare our personnel to handle any situation they may encounter.

Viders: Which of the units with which you served was the most challenging?

De La Rosa: Internal Affairs has to be the most thankless job for any officer. You need to uphold the rules of the department and at times hand down decisions that will result in discipline for your personnel. However, when you are always fair and impartial, everyone usually sees that the officer determines the discipline, not the personnel assigned to investigate it.

The Englewood Police Department must be steadfast in holding our personnel accountable when appropriate.

Viders: How has law enforcement in Bergen County changed over the last few decades?

De La Rosa: Law enforce-

“My favorite part is, for the first time in my career, I feel like the police department is a truly active part of the entire city community…”

Englewood Deputy Police Chief

Matthew De La Rosa

ment in Bergen County and the State of New Jersey has transformed immensely since I began my career in 2002. The policies and procedures have become much more detailed and cover almost every single area of policing. Items that took a few minutes now take an hour. Items that took an hour now take multiple hours. We have done our best to leverage technology to claw back that time, but there are certain items you canʼt do any faster.

There was very little technology years ago and the things we did have were not specifically made for policing. Now there is technology for everything, and you have to really evaluate each part of your systems so we can hit the sweet spot of what works best for us.

The department I walked into is not even close to the department we run now. This is not to speak poorly of the brave men and women that came before, but the department is a truly professional agency that puts its residents first.

Viders: Have you had to deal with or witness any volatile and distressing situations? Does this take an emotional toll?

De La Rosa: The average person is likely to experience only two to four traumatic events in their entire lifetime. Studies indicate that police officers may encounter 400 to 600 traumatic events during an average career. Other estimates suggest officers may experience 800 to 1,000 trau-

matic events in their career, or approximately three to five significant traumatic events per month.

I have seen my share of terrible situations. As police officers, death, domestic violence, crimes against children and the elderly, burglaries, and traffic accidents are somewhat commonplace. You learn to deal with it the best you can and not get emotionally involved. It may seem cold, but if you take every incident personally and carry that baggage, it will emotionally destroy you.

Unfortunately, there are too many instances where children are hurt or victims. Those are tough to get over, if you ever do. Those are by far my nightmare circumstances.

Fortunately, the state has instituted Resiliency Program Officers to be involved in assisting officers in their time of need.

Here at EPD, we have officers attend mental health check-ups every two years and do resiliency training every two years to make sure we are setting up our officers for success in coping with the rigors of the job.

Viders: On a positive note, what are some of the outreach programs that you participate in?

De La Rosa: The EPD does an amazing job at community outreach, which is a far cry from five years ago. The Junior Police Academy allows us to bond with our youth and show them what it may be like to become a police officer. Faith and Blue puts our personnel

in houses of worship to get to know our community. We also hold Englewood Night Out and Movie Night.

These have all paid dividends and allow our officers to meet residents in a regular situation as opposed to meeting them when they are having one of their worst days. It allows both sides to see each other as regular people.

My favorite part is, for the first time in my career, I feel like the police department is a truly active part of the entire city community.

Viders: What do you find most rewarding about your job?

De La Rosa: When you first start your career, you want to chase bad guys, make drug and gun arrests. As you move along in your career, the most important thing is solving problems and positively impacting everyoneʼs life as much as possible.

A CPR save is one of the most humbling things we can do. A person who may not have been there for the holidays is now able to be with their family because our personnel were trained and properly equipped to handle the situation.

At this point in my career, I try to do all the things I wanted to be done when I was a patrol officer to make their job better and for them to be more effective. Itʼs my job to assist the Chief in giving all the great men and women in our department the tools and guidance to make the City of Englewood as safe as possible.

Itʼs unfortunate that you have to leave the police car and the street, so you donʼt get to be as hands-on, but if all your officers are in a better position to do the most good, itʼs truly rewarding.

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Community Chest hosts ‘Girls Night Out’ March 5

In celebration of International Womenʼs Day, The Community Chest will host its fourth annual Girls Night Out on Thursday, March 5, raising funds for programs supporting women and children.

The event will honor six women leaders in health care whose work strengthens access to care and improves outcomes across the local community, the organization said.

Attendees can expect an evening of connection and entertainment, including a fashion show organized by SeeSaw, music by DJ TwinFlame, personalized tarot readings, and a curated food experience. Early registrants will be entered into a raffle for an opportunity to walk the runway during the fashion show.

“We are very excited to be celebrating women at our fourth annual Girls Night Out event this year and to be honoring six outstanding

Women Leaders in Health Care. It promises to be an evening to remember,” said Shelly Wimpfheimer, executive director.

Honorees are:

• Vasantha Kondamudi, MD, executive vice president and chief medical officer, Holy Name Hospital

• Amanda Missey, CEO, Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative

• Anita Ramsetty, MD, director of health equity, Englewood Health

• Tracy Scheller, MD, director, The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, Englewood Health

• Beryl Skog, MA, RN, forensic nurse, independent consultant

• Deborah Visconi, CEO, Bergen New Bridge Medical Center

The event runs 7 to 10 p.m. at The Rockleigh. Registration is available online.

Founded in 1933, The Community Chest supports local nonprofits serving people in need in

Eastern Bergen County through fundraising and grantmaking. For more information, con-

tact Claudine Colmenar at Claudine.colmenar@gmail.com or 646-286-4361.

The Garden Club of Harrington Park will hold its next meeting Thursday, March 5, at 7:30 p.m. in the Community Churchʼs FoundersʼHall, 1 Spring St.

Guest speaker and Master Gardener Christine Kozar will present “Getting Ready for Spring,” with tips on late-winter and early-spring chores and ways

to streamline gardening habits. The program will be followed by a Q&A session and refreshments.

Meetings are open to all, and membership is not required. For more information, visit gardencubofharringtonpark.com or contact Ann-Ingrid Millikan at anningrid1@aol.com or 201-7677828.

SHARE YOUR VINTAGE PHOTOS

NORTHERN VALLEY

Those old black and white photos have been sitting in the drawer for decades. Give those treasures more love by sharing them with your neighbors on this page.

Northern Valley Press welcomes old photographs depicting scenes in any of the towns in the region: Alpine, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Harrington Park, Haworth, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Rockleigh and Tenafly.

Specifically, we’re looking for materials dating to the 1970s and earlier. These can be photos of local buildings, notable people, homes, streets, parks, stores, special events — you name it. Old advertisements for businesses in the Northern Valley are also most welcome.

The submissions are sought for publication in the weekly “Back in Time” local history feature, which appears to the right of this column.

Photographs can be submitted by scanning the photo or taking a good digital photo (the highest resolution possible to facilitate clear printing) and emailing a copy of the photographs along with some detailed information to northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (201) 358-9500 W Woorrkkiinng g f foor r y yoou u

Get the results you’re looking for in the Service Directory in Northern Valley Press.

To place your service ad, call 201-358-9500.

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The butchers ofWest Clinton Market

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

IFYOULIVEDIN TENAFLY over a century ago, no doubt you would have been familiar with the two men pictured on this page. In this photo at right, from circa 1910, Philip Mildenberger and Walter Scheffler in the butcher shop they co-owned in Tenafly, the West Clinton Market. Notice the prices of rib roast, ham, and chicken as posted above the counter.

Kristin Beuscher is historian at the Pascack Historical Society, 19 Ridge Ave., Park Ridge. For more information call (201) 573-0307 or visit PascackHistoricalSociety.org

Both were of German ancestry. Scheffler was born in Tenafly around 1877, the son of German immigrant parents. He was a veteran of the Spanish-American War.

SERVING: Alpine, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Harrington Park, Haworth, Northvale, Norwood, Old Tappan, Rockleigh & Tenafly.

Mildenberger, born in Germany in 1884, came to the United States with his family as a teenager in 1897.

The accompanying advertisement, dateing to 1910, lists the butcher shop's specialties. The phone number was 338-W.

Before people had automobiles, it was common for butchers and grocery shops to deliver

In our featured photo, Mildenberger has gone from butcherʼs apron to suit and bow tie in order to make his rounds.

OT earns Veteran Friendly Muncipality salute

The Borough of Old Tappan basked in new Veteran-Friendly Municipality Certification from the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce during a packed Mayor and Council meeting Jan. 5.

The chamber said the designation recognizes municipalities that adopt policies supporting veteran-owned businesses and

encouraging the hiring of veterans in local government. The borough earned the certification after approving a resolution intended to strengthen outreach to veteranowned businesses, improve access to contracting opportunities and demonstrate visible support for veterans in the community.

Chamber representatives praised the governing body for

what they described as leadership in expanding economic and workforce opportunities for veterans, and said the organization will continue working with the borough as the initiatives are implemented. The chamber works with municipalities and businesses to increase opportunities for veterans and military families.

Missing Blauvelt gravestone turns up in Stillwater

BY GERRI GIBNEY SPECIAL TO NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

HARRINGTONPARK

IN NOVEMBER 2025, the Harrington Park Historical Society received an email that stopped us in our tracks.

It came from the Stillwater Historical Society and read, in part: a Stillwater resident had come across a gravestone… After research, the Stillwater Historical Society believed it might be a long-missing stone from the Blauvelt Cemetery in Harrington Park—part of the boroughʼs Old Burying Ground—and asked about the possibility of returning it and ensuring it was placed properly “to honor the young (or older) lady.”

We replied immediately, asking for a photo and the name inscribed on the stone. The response came back with the words that made the story real: “In the year 1791, the 7th of July, was buried here the body of Margrietje Blauvelt, wife of Rheunis Helm, aged 84 years and 3 months.”

We could confirm it right away: the headstone is from the Old Burying Ground. The inscrip-

tion was recorded in inventories by George Budke in 1916 and Herbert Ackerman in 1946. In our 2007 inventory, it was listed as missing.

The stone itself is in remarkably good condition.

A mystery in Sussex County

The Stillwater Historical Society shared what they had learned on their end. The property owners discovered the stone on their land—in a garage or shed— where it had been tucked against a wall. For years, they assumed it was an old property marker. Only recently, after a closer look and new research, did they determine it was a gravestone.

The property, they added, is historic in its own right, with ownership over time ranging from the family of Joyce Kilmerʼs widow to descendants of a founding family member, Casper Shaver (also recorded as Shafers), whose homestead dates to the late 1750s.

That information raises an unavoidable question: how did an 18th-century Harrington Park gravestone end up in Stillwater? We donʼt yet know. But we do know the likely window. Budke recorded the stone in 1916, and Ackerman recorded it again in 1946. By our 2007 inventory, it was missing. Somewhere between

DERMATOLOGY CENTER

1946 and 2007, this piece of local history traveled—quietly—from Bergen County to Sussex County. There is more to this story, and we look forward to continuing the research as we reinstall the stone in its proper place.

Homecoming

This 18th-century tombstone, belonging to the Blauvelt family, is expected to be returned in early February 2026. Its homecoming feels especially timely as communities begin planning for the nationʼs 250th anniversary commemorations. New Jersey is often called “the Crossroads of the American Revolution,” and it is in places like Harrington Park—on small, local grounds like the Old Burying Ground— that history becomes tangible.

The Old Burying Ground contains graves of veterans of the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. Many markers carry 18th-century inscriptions in Dutch. The cemetery also sits on land associated with early settlement in this region, including land granted to the Blauvelt family through the Tappan Patent of 1686.

As the caretaker of the Old Burying Ground, the Harrington Park Historical Society works to preserve these monuments and the stories they represent. The return of the Blauvelt stone is not just a recovered artifact—it is a reminder that history can disappear, and also that, with vigilance and cooperation, it can be restored.

The return of this monument also renews attention to ongoing preservation needs. The Society continues fundraising to help repair damaged headstones, including those in the Abraham Myers family plot and other Revolutionary-era markers, so they remain a fitting tribute to Harrington Parkʼs early residents and to those who served.

If you would like to contribute to these efforts, donations may be mailed to:

Harrington Park Historical Society P.O. Box 105 Harrington Park, NJ 07640

About the Society

The Harrington Park Historical Society holds general meetings the fourth Thursday of every month, September–May, at Borough Hall. Meetings begin at 7:30 p.m. and include a lecture by a guest speaker. In recognition of the 250th anniversary period, this yearʼs programs focus on the American Revolution. Meetings are open to the public; the facility is handicap-accessible.

The Harrington Park Historical Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation. Website: harringtonparkhistoricalsociety com. For more information, call Gerri Gibney at 201-913-8459.

—Gerri Gibney is president of the Harrington Park Historical Society

New law: Some 17-year-olds will vote in June primary

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

NORTHERNVALLEY

A state law signed in 2024 and effective Jan. 1 allows some 17-yearolds to register and vote in the June 2 New Jersey primary election for the first time, Bergen County elections officials said at the countyʼs annual clerks conference Feb. 19.

Debra Francica, Bergen County superintendent of elections, said municipal clerks should soon receive updated voter registration forms reflecting the change. The new forms will allow 17-year-olds to register for the June 2 primary if they turn 18 on or before the general election Tuesday, Nov. 3.

“New legislation has changed the current voter registration forms. When we receive the new voter registration forms, we will let you know. You must destroy all old voter registration forms,” Francica told about 30 municipal clerks and two dozen other public officials attending the meeting.

The annual conference is held over two days for the countyʼs 70 municipal clerks.

Francica said 17-year-olds should be able to find registration forms online. Eligible 17-year-olds can register by visiting njelections.org and filling out a Bergen County voter registration form. Online registrants must be able to provide a digital signature. If not, registrants must download the twopage form and return it postage-free to the county superintendent of elections.

Francica also reviewed key dates for the June primary: May 12 is the voter registration deadline, and May 26 through May 31 is the primaryʼs six-day early voting period. The primary election is Tuesday, June 2.

County election officials present updates

The meeting featured presentations by Bergen County Clerk John Hogan, Elections Division Supervisor Sabrina Taranto, Francica, and Deputy Superintendent Jamie Sheehan-Willis. Also appearing were County Executive James Tedesco III and county commissioners Germaine Ortiz and Mary Amoroso.

Turnout and early voting

Hogan noted last yearʼs gubernatorial election saw November 2025 turnout increase nearly 10% over 2021ʼs election, when Democratic incumbent Gov. Phil Murphy narrowly defeated Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli.

Last year, four-term Democratic Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill bested Ciattarelli 56% to 43% in statewide voting, Hogan said. In Bergen County, Hogan said turnout in November reached 51.84% countywide.

“This is significant because the voter turnout was 10% higher than the last (2021) governorʼs election,” Hogan said. In 2021, he said, 39.1% of Bergen County voters turned out. Francica said the increase was partly due to early voting, which was

Law signed in 2024 takes effect; registration forms online; Hogan addresses elections rumors, ʻmisinformationʼ

available over nine days prior to Election Day and boosted turnout.

In November 2021 — the first year early in-person voting was permitted — 14,792 voters cast early ballots at one of nine early voting locations, Francica said. In November 2025, 67,707 voters cast early inperson ballots, surpassing the total of 53,392 mail-in ballots, she said.

Mail-in voting form changes for 2026

Taranto said a new vote-bymail certificate for 2026 — which she described as “simple, clearer, easier” — is intended to simplify what vote-by-mail voters must complete for their ballots to count.

Beginning in April, she said, all registered vote-by-mail voters will begin receiving the new form and highlighted instructions, along with a new return envelope.

County elections officials said May 26 is the deadline to apply for a mail-in primary ballot by mail.

Public questions: “Briefer is better”

Taranto reviewed public ballot questions from the past five years and raised concerns about “voter

fatigue,” asking what might be learned from ballot questions that drew the strongest voter response.

The top three public questions drawing what she described as voter engagement were: an Oakland open space public question (372 words) in 2020 that drew 89% of participating voters and passed; a Park Ridge public question (243 words) in 2023 on pond dredging that drew 88% of participating voters and failed; and a Rutherford public question (262 words) in 2023 on cannabis that was voted down.

Based on her analysis, Taranto said public questions should not resemble “Shakespearean prose,” and that clarity can beat completeness. She also said shorter questions

Bergen County Clerk John S. Hogan convened the annual Clerks Meeting Feb. 18–19 at the Bergen County Administration Building, where municipal clerks from the county’s 70 towns heard briefings on what to expect in the 2026 election cycle. The two-day program included remarks from Hogan, County Executive James J. Tedesco III, members of the Board of Commissioners, County Superintendent of Elections Debra Francica, the Board of Elections, and the county clerk’s election supervisor, with a focus on election timelines, procedures and administrative updates for the year ahead.

have operational benefits, including reduced ballot paper needs and lower printing and postage costs.

Taranto said municipal clerks should be mindful of question length because longer questions can require more paper at polling places; force voters to wait for two pages to print; require voters to scan both ballot pages at the machine; and require additional poll-worker training.

She said clerks may also need larger quantities of emergency ballots on hand in case of voting machine malfunctions or breakdowns.

For vote-by-mail voters, she said, longer ballots add another potential point of failure: voters must remember to return both ballot sheets in the certificate envelope.

Hogan reminded clerks that in 2023 the county introduced the “first new elections system in 30 years, with no opportunity to phase it in.” He said county election officials and municipal clerks worked together in 2024 to manage “a fair, open, honest, and successful presidential election.”

Addressing election misinformation and rumors

Hogan said election officials have also had to address misinformation and “false election claims,” along with what he described as political attempts to confuse the election process.

He said he frequently responds to misinformation when he hears it, including rumors that elections will be “federalized.”

Ahead of the last two November elections, officials said the clerkʼs office disseminated a flyer titled “Ignore the Rumors: Get Your Questions Answered By Your Trusted Election Officials.” Taranto urged residents to call or email her with questions — including rumors they have heard — so election officials can respond with accurate, transparent answers.

Tarantoʼs email is electionsclerk@bergencountynj.gov.

The flyer addressed “rumors versus reality” about election integrity and transparency, vote-bymail, voter registration, ballots and voting, and early voting.

“Election disinformation is designed to mislead, undermine

Where sharp craftsmanship fits family lore

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

Hi, Jon,

This sword has been in my family for well over 100 years. It belonged to my grandfatherʼs father, Calvin McLain, originally from Ohio. I was told he was a captain in the Army during the Civil War, and that the men of the 2nd Missouri Cavalry presented him with this sword. After the war, he worked as an agent for the Wabash Railroad in Chicago; our family has photographs of him connected to the railroad. That is about all I know about the sword and my relative.

As you can see from the photos, itʼs an especially ornate piece. Iʼm hoping you can tell me anything more about it, including an estimate of its value. Any information you can find about Calvin McLain would mean a great deal to us.

Thank you so much, Diane

Dear Diane,

What you have is a magnificent, presentation-grade Civil War cavalry officerʼs saber and scabbard, and it comes with the kind of provenance collectors dream about.

According to the inscription on the scabbard, this sword was presented to Capt. Calvin W. McLain by Company D of the 2nd Missouri

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

Cavalry (“Merrillʼs Horse”) on March 1, 1863. In terms of quality and condition, it is one of the finest Civil War swords Iʼve had the pleasure to inspect.

And thereʼs a second detail that elevates it even further: the sword was embellished and decorated by Tiffany & Co. in New York.

The blade itself was manufactured by Collins & Co. of Hartford, Connecticut — a respected maker — but it clearly made its way to New York for Tiffanyʼs finishing work. The moment I saw the depth of the etching and the sophistication of the decoration, Tiffany craftsmanship came to mind. Confirming it is the hidden blade marking: TIFFANY & CO. / NEW YORK.

A closer look at the sword

The curved steel blade features exceptionally detailed etching, including scrollwork and martial motifs. On the right side is a standing Zouave figure, along with the TIFFANY & CO. N.Y. marking above an “1861”-dated ricasso. The left side includes an officer figure.

The opposite ricasso is stamped “COLLINS & CO / HARTFORD /

“The blade itself was manufactured by Collins & Co. of Hartford, Connecticut — a respected maker — but it clearly made its way to New York for Tiffany’s finishing work. The moment I saw the depth of the etching and the sophistication of the decoration, Tiffany craftsmanship came to mind.”

CONN.”

The gilt brass hilt includes a red base washer, floral decoration on the knuckle guard and pommel, and a spread-wing-and-shield motif on the back of the quillon. The grip is shagreen-wrapped with brass wire. The scabbard is equally striking. Its gilded body is inscribed: “Presented to Capt. C.W. McLain by the Members of Co. D. Merrillʼs Horse / March 1st, 1863.”

The scabbard bands and drag are engraved with floral designs, and the upper band bears a large “US.”

The unit behind the presentation

For context: Merrillʼs Horse was a Union cavalry regiment raised under Maj. Gen. John C. Frémont in the Western Department, based in St. Louis, and named for Col. Lewis Merrill, a veteran of the 2nd U.S. Dragoons who organized the unit in 1861 and served under Frémont.

The regiment initially fought

in hard, bloody operations against Confederate guerrillas in northern Missouri and became known for aggressive, effective suppression of guerrilla activity — enough so that a book was written about the unit titled The Merrill Horse or the Guerrillas Conquered. As the war continued, the regiment also saw action against Confederate cavalry in Alabama and Tennessee.

Captain McLainʼs military record

After researching military records, I was able to confirm that Calvin W. McLain was born in 1827 in Marysville, Ohio, and died in 1892 in Jacksonville, Illinois. He served in Company D and mustered in as a first lieutenant, then was commissioned captain on Oct. 24, 1862. He was promoted to major on Nov. 17, 1864.

When the members of his company presented him the sword you now own — March 1, 1863 — he was assigned to the District of Northeast Missouri.

After the war, he lived in Jacksonville, Illinois, and was listed as a member of the Board of Education. Your familyʼs account that he worked as an agent for the Wabash Railroad in Chicago also fits neatly with the postwar paper trail.

Value

Now to the question everyone wonders about: value.

This saber checks every box that drives collector demand. It is identified to a specific officer, it is presentation-grade, it has excellent condition, and — most importantly — it carries Tiffany & Co. decoration. In this field, that combination is exceptional.

The antique military collectibles market remains strong, and pieces of this caliber continue to command premium prices. A conservative value for this sword and scabbard in todayʼs market is $10,000. Any advanced collector of Civil War edged weapons would be eager to make this a centerpiece of a serious collection.

She advocates for foster kids in Bergen County

TOWNSHIPOF WASHINGTON r esident Nilene

Evans became a Bergen County Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) after reading a Bergen Record story about the work nearly a decade ago — and thinking, I can do that.

Evans, a retired corporate securities lawyer, said she was looking for meaningful, handson service after leaving full-time work. “I could still just write checks,” she said, “but I didnʼt want to write checks. I wanted to do, and be involved.”

Today, Evans is a volunteer Advocate with Bergen County CASA — now a colleague of the volunteer whose story first drew her in — and she is also a member of the organizationʼs board. She described the role as a serious commitment, one that often requires persistence, coordination, and a willingness to keep showing up.

“When I signed up, I was told you have to think of it like a part-time job,” Evans said. “It is a commitment… Weʼre supposed to be with the kids for as long as it takes.”

Volunteer Advocates appointed by family court judges work alongside schools, service providers and child-welfare professionals to help ensure foster childrenʼs educational, medical and mental-health needs are addressed — and that judges have the information they need to make well-informed decisions

in each case. Bergen County CASA, a Hackensack-based nonprofit, follows that model and is part of a nationwide network of more than 900 CASA affiliates operating in 49 states, the organization says. It says its advocacy is guided by the principle that children do best with their family of origin when that can be achieved safely.

For many children, a CASA Advocate is the only consistent adult presence while they are in care — particularly when placements change, Executive Director Lucy Rosen said.

Evans said that consistency matters because even when removal is necessary, the disruption itself is traumatic. “The mere act of taking a child from a home — no matter how neglect-

ful or how terrible the home is — is traumatic.”

While people sometimes assume CASA work is primarily one-on-one time with a child, Evans said much of the role involves advocacy inside a complicated system: speaking with educators, physicians, therapists, caseworkers, foster parents and biological parents, then “We advocate… We think about whatʼs going on and what does the child need,” Evans said. “We nag. We nag politely; we work the system.”

One concrete example, she said, is education. State rules can require a child to remain enrolled in the school district from which they were removed, even when

•State of the art security system.

•Fully enclosed age appropriate soft surface playground.

NORTHERN VALLEY

Special-needs community shines at Monster Mini Golf event

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ebrating and uplifting the special needs community came to life at Monster Mini Golf, as the glow-in-thedark venue became a hub of inclusion, connection and fun.

educators and community advocates gathered for activities

designed to help every participant feel welcomed and supported.

HAWORTH

Staff members assisted guests s they arrived, helped players navigate the course, and made senory-friendly accommodations vailable.

The wheelchairccessible, glow-inthe-dark mini golf course offered a comfortable setting where participants could move at their own pace, enjoy friendly competition, and build confidence with each swing.

Beyond mini golf, the event featured “create your own” sensory-toy stations, music, accessible arcade games, prizes, and quiet spaces for those who needed a calmer environment. Caregivers said they appreciated the thoughtful planning and the way the event balanced excitement with accessibility.

Throughout the day, laughter and encouragement filled the course as new friendships formed. Volunteers offered one-on-one support when needed, while siblings and peers cheered each other on—adding to the spirit of community that defined the gathering.

As the event concluded, families left with smiles, new connections and lasting memories. Organizers said the day underscored a simple message: communities thrive when they create spaces where everyone belongs.

The next Special Needs community event is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, at Monster

SACRED HEART ST. PAT’S DINNER MARCH 14

Join Sacred Heart Church for its Annual St. Patrickʼs Day Dinner on Saturday, March 14 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. in the Parish Hall.

The evening features live music, Irish step dancers, and a festive menu of traditional Irish fare, including chicken and dessert. BYOB. Tickets are $55 per person. Reservations are requested by March 10.

To register, please complete the reservation form

available in the church and return it, with payment, to the collection boxes or mail it to Sacred Heart Church. Checks should be made payable to Sacred Heart Church with “St. Patrickʼs Dinner” noted in the memo line.

Sacred Heart Church is at 102 Park St. For more information or to request a copy of the registration form, call the Parish Center at 201-387-0080.

N.Y.

ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY IN THE NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS.

Remembering Terezín, one recipe at a time

BY HILLARY VIDERS OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

Temple Sinai of Bergen County in Tenafly hosted chef and television personality Josh Capon on Feb. 1 for a cooking program inspired by In Memoryʼs Kitchen, a collection of recipes recorded by women imprisoned in the Terezí n (Theresienstadt) ghetto during the Holocaust and later published

with historical context by editor Cara De Silva.

The program, held from 3 to 5 p.m., drew several dozen congregants and guests, including Rabbi Jordan Millstein. Participants gathered in the synagogue kitchen to prepare and sample dishes while learning the story behind the recipes and the women who preserved them.

Shelly Wimpfheimer, executive director of The Community Chest, welcomed the group and introduced the program, presented as part of Temple Sinaiʼs (templesinaibc.org) yearlong “Women

in the Holocaust” series. The series was spurred by the donation of artist Irmari Nachtʼs work, “Books110Terezin,” by Shelly and Justin Wimpfheimer.

Nachtʼs piece is an artwork created from deconstructed copies of In Memoryʼs Kitchen. It honors the women of Terezí n who, while starving and imprisoned, wrote down recipes from memory as a way to hold onto identity, comfort and hope.

Wimpfheimer shared background on the recipes, noting that Mina Pachter compiled many of them in Terezí n and hoped to pass the manuscript to her daughter, Annie. The collection was smuggled out, but it took years before it reached her and was later brought to publication.

Nacht described how the cookbook inspired her sculpture. She said she purchased the last 13 copies available through the Englewood Public Library and cut the pages into hundreds of shapes

with an X-Acto knife to create a three-dimensional work.

“The swirls on the piece represent the potatoes that the starving women were forced to make for the watered-down potato

assisting, Capon prepared several dishes for the group to taste, including onion kuchen (torte),

soup,” she said.

Capon set an upbeat tone as the cooking began. “When Shelly asked me to do this event,” he said, “I was inspired by the story of these recipes that have been passed down through generations and have passed the test of time.”

With volunteer sous-chefs

yellow pepper soup and spinach pie. He also served Israeli salad and butter cake for dessert.

After the cooking, participants gathered in the dining room to eat and talk. Many said the program offered a meaningful way to connect food, history and remembrance.

With SAORI project, local Rotary looms larger

BY HILLARY VIDERS OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

ENGLEWOOD

The Rotary Club of Englewood launched Phase II of its Community SAORI Tapestry Project on Feb. 17, inviting members and guests to add to a collaborative woven tapestry that has already reached about 50 feet, with a goal of topping 100 feet to mark more than a century of Rotary service in the city.

The kickoff took place during the clubʼs noon luncheon meeting at the Crowne Plaza, 401 S. Van Brunt St. Participants were introduced to SAORI. As SAORIGlobal explains:

“SAORI is a movement and integrated practice of creative and personal realization founded in 1969 by Misao Jo and still continued by her family in Osaka, Japan. It is rooted in the activity of free-flowing, uninhibited hand weaving and the core philosophy that we are all born with unique sensibilities and the power to create. SAORI is not only a practice of connecting deeply with oneʼs own creative and authentic self, but it is also a practice of connecting deeply with others. By discovering and nurturing our individuality yet shared humanity and ability to express ourselves, we cultivate awareness and compassion within ourselves and our global community.”

Rotary co-presidents Janet Pagan and Walter Young said in an invitation that the project is intended as a handson community expression of Rotary values, “unity in diversity” and service.

Diane Jansen, chair of the Community Tapestry Project, encouraged beginners to try the looms, and many arrived early to weave before the weekly meeting.

The featured speaker, Ria Hawks,

Military bridge, tricky tray March 27

CRESSKILL — The Cresskill Womanʼs Club hosts its annual Military Bridge and Tricky Tray — the clubʼs largest fundraiser of the year — on Friday, March 27, at the Closter Senior Center, 4 Lewis St., Closter Doors open at 6 p.m., games begin at 7. Admission $15 per person, with tables seating four. No bridge experience is required. Games, refreshments, prizes, and raffles, with net proceeds supporting the clubʼs scholarship programs and community operations. Reservations are required. Call Maryann Niland at 201-417-9672.

Rotary Club of Englewood members display a SAORI woven tapestry during the Phase II

Community SAORI Tapestry Project on Feb. 17 at the Crowne

Below that, Dr. Michael Passow tries his hand at

co-founder of Intertwine Arts and a former pediatric nurse practitioner, discussed using weaving programs to support coping and self-expression, including in health care settings. Phase II is supported by the Rotary Club of Englewood and NVE Bank, a division

of Ion Bank, said Treasurer Janet Sharma, who chaired the meeting. Additional SAORI weaving events are planned for the spring, according to Jansen. For more information visit englewoodrotarynj.org.

SUNDAYMARCH 29TH

Top

during

kickoff event. Hillary Viders photos.

Spring Craft Show March 22 at Paramus High

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The Spring Craft Show at Paramus High School will be held Sunday, March 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shoppers can browse 145 exhibitors from three states featuring arts, crafts, and photography.

The show spans two gyms, the vestibule, and the cafe—so plan to visit each area to catch all the vendors and one-of-a-kind finds. The event is sponsored by Project Graduation and organized by P.J.ʼs Promotions.

E xpect booths filled with

hand-painted flower pots and g lassware; home decor and apparel; resin pieces; handcrafted jewelry; table runners and pillows; fiber arts; crocheted animals and soft sculpture; country crafts; porch and door signs; jeweled utensils; heat packs; ceramics; and more.

Shoppers will also find wood b owls and pens, charcuterie boards, birdhouses, bonsai items, soaps and candles, stained glass, chocolates, sports clocks, florals, pottery, mandala and diamond art—plus plenty of other unique

gifts and seasonal items.

Outside vendors will offer treats and specialty foods, includi ng homemade pickles, beef jerky, kettle corn, and desserts, a long with chainsaw-carved items and tie-dye.

Admission is $4. A breakfast and lunch menu will be available in the cafО. Paramus High

CASA:

FROM PAGE 10

they have no meaningful ties there and the commute becomes punishing.

“There are kids who… can be on the road two hours a day,” Evans said. “And so we figure out those things.”

Evans said delays and gaps in mental-health services remain among the hardest challenges — not because professionals donʼt care, but because there are not enough providers and childrenʼs cases can shift quickly

School is located at 99 E. Century Road. For information, visit pjspro-

“There arenʼt enough providers,” she said. “Everything takes longer than you planned… and if a therapist leaves, you have to start over.”

Bergen County CASAʼs next Advocate training class begins Saturday, Feb. 28. Prospective volunteers are encouraged to attend an information session before applying. (For details visit bergencasa.org and bergencasa.org/information-sessions.)

Evans said volunteers bring different strengths — whether they know school systems well, understand community resources, or simply connect with children but the essential qualification is a steady commitment to a

childʼs well-being.

“Itʼs caring,” she said. “You want to make a difference in a childʼs life.”

—By staff writer John Snyder. Read more at thepressgroup.net

OTFD beefsteak dinner fundraiser

March 21

OLD TAPPAN — The Old Tappan Volunteer Fire Department will host a beefsteak dinner and trivia night Saturday, March 21, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at its quarters, 231 Old Tappan Road (corner of Russell Avenue). Dinner will include beefsteak, french fries and salad, along with soft drinks, beer and ice cream for dessert. Guests may also bring their own beverages.

Entertainment will be provided by Joe Trivia, with prizes for first-, second- and third-place winners.

Tickets are $50 and support the fire department. To purchase, contact Lt. Steve Naylis at stevenaylis@gmail.com, or stop by the firehouse on Mondays from 7:30 to 9 p.m. through March 16.

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Haider lends voice, lift to council’s Snack-Pack project

National Council of Jewish Women Bergen County Section on Feb. 3 in

assembling 1,000 weekend snack packs for elementary school students served through the Center for Food Action.

The packing took place at Temple Emeth, where NCJW members, guests and community volunteers formed an assembly line to fill the bags with child-friendly,

Snack-packing took place at Temple Emeth, where NCJW members, guests and community volunteers formed an assembly line to fill the bags with child-friendly, shelf-stable foods intended to help bridge weekend hunger. Hillary Viders photo.

shelf-stable foods intended to help bridge weekend hunger. The snack packs will be distributed to students on Friday afternoons, organizers said.

The Feb. 3 event marked the 11th year NCJW Bergen County has hosted the snack-pack program. The event was hosted by NCJW Bergen County co-president BariLynn Schwartz and Flora Perskie, vice president of communications, with support from Lori Oliff, the

Center for Food Actionʼs weekend snack pack coordinator. Schwartz opened with brief remarks about NCJW programs and upcoming February initiatives, urging attendees to volunteer or donate. “The good we do at Council is power!” she said. Schwartz then welcomed Haider, a deputy majority leader in the Assembly and chair of the Children, Families and Food Security Committee. Haider also serves on the Assembly Health and Appropriations committees.

Haider spoke about the scope of food insecurity in New Jersey and concerns about reduced funding and stricter eligibility requirements for SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

After her remarks, Haider joined volunteers at the packing tables. Volunteers packed 1,000 bags with individual servings of items such as fruit, cereal and macaroni and cheese, along with other shelf-stable foods. Each snack pack costs $8, organizers said.

The group worked steadily, chatting as they went, until the final bags were sealed and staged for delivery to the Center for Food Action.

Report by Hillary Viders

Ethical Culture Society Pi Day fun

The Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, which counts Northern Valley residents as membes, will host its second annual Pi Day Celebration on Saturday, March 14, offering hands-on math activities and creative challenges for all ages.

The family-friendly event plays off the mathematical constant pi — 3.14 — and will feature interactive math exhibits, a parabolic art project, and a variety of foodthemed fun, including build-yourown “pizza pi” and sweet dessert pies to sample.

Participants can also take part in a pi-throwing contest or compete in the Express Triominos Tournament, a fast-paced game rooted in mathematical strategy. The tournament is open to players ages 7 and up, with prizes awarded.

Organizers said the event celebrates the beauty of math as it appears in nature and art, while supporting the societyʼs commitment to science literacy

The celebration will be held at the Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, 687 Larch Ave. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the event runs until 8:30 p.m. Admission is $10.

For more information, visit ethicalfocus.org.

Plan for an exceptional Easter egg hunt

Easter is steeped in both religious and secular traditions. Each year on Easter Sunday, many families feast on ham or lamb. Hot cross buns may be served as morning treats. And faithful Christians may dress up in their Sunday best to attend religious services.

the egg hunt. A park may seem like a good idea, but people who were not included in the egg count could wander in. If you use a public space, rope off an area where the eggs will be hidden. In addition, have a backup plan if the weather will not cooperate. School gymna-

identify hiding spots that will work for various ages. For example, toddlers will need conspicuous spots and older children more challenging nooks and crannies. A map of where every egg is hidden can help as well. Real eggs may not matter outdoors since wildlife could sim-

Easter egg hunts are another time-honored component of this festive occasion. According to History.com, the Easter bunny and his eggs may initially have been derived from stories about an egglaying hare introduced to Americans by German settlers during the 1700s. Children would make nests and the hare would leave behind colored eggs.

Children often relish in the idea of scouring their homes and yards in search of brightly-hued plastic or hard-boiled eggs. A little planning on the part of Easter egg hunt organizers can make this festive tradition even more fun.

• Set the date: If Easter egg hunts are more than just family affairs and involve neighborhood searches or hunts with a close knit group of friends, it may be smart to schedule in the days before Easter This helps ensure that a good crowd will be available. Hunts on Easter itself may not get as many participants because celebrants could be at church or celebrating privately.

• Gather supplies early. Easter decorations and plastic eggs sell out rather quickly, so itʼs wise to stock up on items as soon as they reach store shelves. If youʼll be using real eggs, consider boiling and coloring the eggs a week before the egg hunt so you wonʼt feel a time crunch. Simply store the dyed eggs in the refrigerator until ready for use. Color around six to 12 eggs per participant.

• Designate a search area. Aim for a relatively private spot for

siums, libraries or church recreational centers are some potential indoor options.

• Have pails at the ready. Some children will forget to bring a basket. Therefore, have extra, inexpensive pails or buckets on hand. Sturdy gift bags also work in a pinch.

• Keep ages in mind when hiding eggs. Avoid choosing hiding spots that can be dangerous or prove too difficult for kids to find the eggs. Prior to hiding eggs, count how many you have, which will help to ensure all eggs were actually collected later on. Next,

ply dine on any undiscovered eggs. However, plastic eggs are not good for the environment and every attempt should be made to collect them all.

• Send children out in stages. Let the youngest go first, and then group each search team by ascending age. This helps make sure the older kids wonʼt simply snatch up the more easily found eggs.

• Reward with prizes. Be sure each child has some sort of takeaway prize. However, itʼs fine to reward the best egg hunter with a more substantial prize.

• Gather and celebrate. Encourage guests to bring a small dish to contribute. After the hunt, everyone can gather to enjoy refreshments.

Holy Thursday April 2nd

7pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper

Good Friday April 3rd

3pm Solemn Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion 7pm Stations of the Cross

Holy Saturday April 4th

12pm Blessing of Easter Food 8pm Easter Vigil Mass

EASTER SUNDAY MASS April 5th

7:30am, 9:30am & 11:30am

CHURCH OF THE

MARCH 22 - LISZT’S “VIA CRUCIS” 5:00 pm Choir,Soloists,Readers

MARCH 29 - PALM SUNDAY 9:45am Blessing of Palms & Procession,Worship

APRIL 2- MAUNDY THURSDAY 7:30pm Holy Eucharist,Stripping of Altar

APRIL 3 - GOOD FRIDAY 1:00pmTenafly Ecumenical Walk begins 5:00pm Family Service - Church 7:30pm Solemn Liturgy - Choir Stalls

APRIL 4 - HOLY SATURDAY 8:00pm New Fire, Great Vigil of Easter and Eucharist with Choir and Soloists

APRIL 5 - EASTER SUNDAY 10:00am Worship with Choir, Soloists and Brass Egg Hunt on the lawn after the service Celebrate Christ’s Resurrection in

Wicker:

FROM PAGE 1

“Keith can often be found on a baseball diamond, soccer field, or at any other town gathering showing support to his kids — and ours! Keith is as good as they come,” Fornazor wrote, calling him “that one-of-a-kind, salt-ofthe-earth, all-around great guy.”

She wrote, too, that Wicker “is also known for his strength and resilience. He has battled brain cancer for many years and now heʼs fighting a rare form of blood cancer. True to Wicker form, they havenʼt asked for any help, but they deserve it. This GoFundMe was created to ease their burden so that Amy and the kidsʼsole focus can be Keith and his fight against cancer.”

Department:

“We more so celebrate his life”

In a statement posted Saturday, the Englewood Cliffs Police Department said it was “with a heavy heart” that it mourned Wickerʼs passing and reflected on his career.

“Captain Keith Wicker began his journey as a police officer within the Borough of Englewood Cliffs in 2000,” the department wrote. “After graduating from the police academy in 2001, he was assigned to the Patrol Division where he effectively enforced traffic and criminal law, made self-initiated arrests, adhered to the principles of Community Policing, and volunteered his time at various borough events.

“In 2007, he was assigned as a Task Force Officer to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). During his five-year tenure in this assignment, he participated in some of the largest seizures of drug money in the DEAʼs history.

“In 2012, he was promoted to sergeant. In 2013, he returned to directly serve the borough in the Detective Bureau as detective lieutenant. His investigative efforts led to the arrest and convictions of countless perpetrators of criminal activity against victims in Englewood Cliffs.

“He was promoted to captain in 2020. He served as Patrol Division commander starting in 2021. In over 25 years of service to this community he undoubtedly touched the lives of countless residents and citizens, all while wearing the badge with honor and dignity

“While we mourn his passing, we more so celebrate his life; and we are thankful to have served with a man of his caliber.”

Community fundraising effort continues

The GoFundMe effort quickly drew widespread support from residents, friends, and law enforcement colleagues across the region.

Neighboring police departments have also shared condolences and encouraged the public to continue supporting the fundraiser.

The Englewood Police

Department posted: “Our hearts are heavy today as we stand alongside our brothers at the Englewood Cliffs Police Department. The loss of an officer is felt by the entire law enforcement family, regardless of the patches we wear. We offer our deepest condolences to Keithʼs family, friends, and colleagues. To the ECPD, we are here for you. Keith, thank you for your service and your inspiring fight. Rest in peace.”

The Woodcliff Lake Police Department, in a statement issued after Wickerʼs death, called him a public servant who served “with honor, dedication, and professionalism,” and said anyone interested in helping to support the family “can join efforts through” the GoFundMe campaign.

And the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association extended “our deepest sympathies to the Wicker family and the Englewood Cliffs Police Department,” adding: “Captain Keith Wicker served for over 25 years with integrity, courage and professionalism. May he rest in eternal peace.”

Coverage dispute drew attention before Wickerʼs death

In the week leading up to Wickerʼs death, a public dispute emerged over whether Wickerʼs family would face healthcare contribution costs under Chapter 78 of state law, or whether longstanding contract language and past practice in Englewood Cliffs would allow the family to remain covered without contributions.

The New Jersey State PBA publicly urged that “the right decision” be made with the familyʼs best interests in mind, and the Englewood Cliffs PBA pressed borough officials to ensure continued coverage.

At a special meeting of the mayor and council on Feb. 19, Lt. Gregory Romano, speaking for the Englewood Cliffs Police Officers Association, opened by thanking borough officials for confirming coverage for Wickerʼs family.

“As a unit, we want to thank you for providing Captain Wickerʼs family with healthcare coverage as stated in our contract,” Romano said, calling the matter “imminent” and saying it would provide the family “some peace

during this difficult time.”

Romano then disputed prior remarks by Borough Administrator Intashan Chowdhury regarding retiree healthcare contributions, saying the benefits at issue were “expressly negotiated,” including during the 2019–2023 contract talks. Romano said that in contracts since 2011, officers have made “painful concessions” to preserve the healthcare clause, and he urged borough officials to “honor the contract.”

Borough officials have maintained that state law governs contribution requirements unless formally modified through collective bargaining. The PBA disputes that interpretation, arguing that contract language and negotiating history govern the benefit.

Borough: Wicker family will not be charged contributions

After our initial inquiries, Chowdhury provided a statement he said came from labor counsel, saying Wickerʼs matter “has been resolved,” and that no health benefit contributions will be collected from his family.

The statement said the borough does not comment on “the personal retirement status of individual employees,” citing privacy considerations and the fact that such matters are “subject to review and approval by the State retirement system.”

On the legal question raised publicly, the borough said retiree healthcare eligibility and contribution obligations are governed by New Jersey statutes and the retirement systemʼs determinations. It said the collective negotiations agreement addresses health benefit contributions for active employees, and “does not modify or expand statutory provisions governing retiree health benefits.”

Regarding Chapter 78 (P.L. 2011, c.78), the borough said its review focused on the statutes governing health benefit contributions and “relevant case law,” and concluded there is a legal distinction between service retirements and disability retirements.

“Where a disability retirement is approved by the State retirement system, Chapter 78 contribution provisions do not apply,” Chowdhuryʼs forwarded statement said,

serve retiree healthcare benefits.

According to the statement, the contract “clearly states” the borough will cover healthcare contributions for retired members “in full,” and that when a member passes away the coverages that are paid by the borough “will pass to the spouse and children,” with “no contributions” required.

The bargaining unit said the borough has stated Chapter 78 must be followed, but the union argued that Chapter 78ʼs contribution provisions have “sunset,” and said there is no reason, in its view, to require retirees who left after 25 years of service under contractual language calling for zero contributions to be held to contribution levels comparable to those paid by active employees.

adding that the borough anticipates the state will approve the certification submitted in this case.

The borough said it “remains committed to administering retirement health benefits in accordance with New Jersey law while respecting the privacy of its employees and their families.”

In a followup, Chowdhury cited James Meyers v. State Health Benefits Commission (2023) as the leading Supreme Court case guiding Chapter 78 retiree contribution questions for other members under SHBP, and said the broader dispute remains unresolved. He reiterated that Wickerʼs family will have coverage with no contributions collected.

Chowdhury also shared the stateʼs Chapter 78 SHBP retiree contribution chart—showing a sliding, income-based premium share that can reach 30% to 35%— as the boroughʼs reference point for how contributions would be calculated for other retirees absent an applicable exemption.

PBA: “100% medically covered with zero contributions,” but broader dispute remains

In a statement provided by the Englewood Cliffs Police Officers Association to Northern Valley Press on Feb 21, PBA chairmen P.O. Rommes and P.O. Minetti said the bargaining unit sought to clarify what it described as longstanding contractual terms regarding retiree health benefits and survivor coverage.

The union said the borough administrator has asserted that Englewood Cliffs has not followed state law since 2011 under Chapter 78 for healthcare contributions upon retirement. The bargaining unit countered that, “for over a decade,” officers negotiated concessions—including raises, longevity pay, and the elimination of a deputy chief position, among other items—specifically to pre-

“Our contractual contributions upon retirement have always been zero and that is because we have always negotiated to keep it that way,” the statement said.

“All we are asking is for them to do the right thing and honor the contract that has always been honored by previous elected officials who have always interpreted and understood our retiree benefits to be exactly the way it is written, ZERO!”

The statement said two members were prepared to retire when the borough—after agreeing upon terms for a new contract—advised the union that its interpretation of retiree healthcare was believed to be impacted by Chapter 78.

The statement also said Wickerʼs family “will be 100% medically covered with zero contributions” and thanked what it described as “the appropriate authority” for rendering that decision, which it said “should have never been in question.”

However, the bargaining unit said the decision was not made because borough officials were honoring the contract; rather, it said the outcome was reached through “a specific retirement option” that had to be sought after and “figured out,” which it said added more pain to an already difficult situation. The statement cited what it described as case law out of Brick Township as support for that option.

The union said the broader question remains whether the borough council will uphold what it described as decades of negotiated agreements reached after significant concessions by its members. It noted that despite receiving a cease-anddesist letter from borough labor counsel, the bargaining unit said it remains willing to meet with “the appropriate authority,” as it said it has done in the past.

N NOORRTTHHEERRN N V VAALLLLEEY Y P PRREESSS S

welcomes press releases,birth announcements, wedding announcements, and news tips from all corners of our vibrant Northern Valley area Write northernvalleypress@thepressgroup.net

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

Rethinking the food pyramid for whole foods

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, DC, KAPLAN BRAIN & BODY

MA RCH i s Natio

nal Nutrition

Month — a g ood time to look not only at w hatʼs on our plates, but at how nutrition a dvice has changed over the past few decades.

If you grew up in the 1990s, you probably remember the old food pyramid. Bread, cereal, rice, and pasta sat at the bottom, with a directive to eat six to 11 servings a day. Fat was the villain. Dairy was treated as essential. Butter became suspect, and margarine took over kitchen counters across America.

Today, the conversation looks very different. The U.S. Department of Agriculture replaced the pyramid with MyPlate, emphasizing vegeta-

bles, fruits, protein, and more b alanced portions. Harvardʼs School of Public Health went further with its Healthy Eating Plate, highlighting healthy fats such as olive oil and advising limits on refined grains and sugary drinks.

In other words, the science evolved — and so did the guidance many clinicians have been offering for years: when people eat more whole foods and healthier fats, and fewer processed carbohydrates, their bodies often respond.

For decades, Americans were encouraged to fear fat. Yet Harvard researchers have publ ished multiple large studies associating healthy fats — from sources such as nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish — with lower rates of heart disease.

Meanwhile, diets high in refined grains and added sugars are strongly linked to obesity, diabetes, and inflammation. The National Institutes of Health has also emphasized that overall

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dietary patterns matter more than simply cutting fat. Replacing fat with sugar, it turns out, wasnʼt a winning strategy.

Dairy is another area where nuance matters. Some individuals tolerate dairy well, while others experience digestive or inflammatory reactions.

Newer guidelines tend to emphasize personalization rather than one-size-fits-all rules — and thatʼs progress. The body isnʼt a math equation. Itʼs a living system influenced by genetics, stress, sleep, movement, and environment.

What excites me most about the current direction is the renewed focus on whole foods: vegetables, berries, healthy fats, clean proteins, and minimally processed carbohydrates.

These foods provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that support both brain and body. In my clinical

STERLING ASSOCIATES

practice, I often remind patients that the brain is only about 2% of body weight — yet it uses roughly 20% of the bodyʼs energy. If you fuel it primarily with processed foods and sugar, itʼs not surprising when focus, memory, and mood suffer.

Thatʼs where nutrition and n eurology intersect. The brain helps regulate hormones, blood sugar, appetite, and cravings. When the brain is under stress or out of balance, people often reach for quick carbohydrates.

To better understand what may be driving those patterns, we offer qEEG brain mapping, which assesses brain-wave patterns associated with stress, attention, and cognitive function.

In honor of National Nutrition Month, weʼre offering qEEG brain mapping for $21 (normally $600). Understanding how your brain is functioning can help you make smarter, more sustainable nutritional decisions.

If youʼd like to learn more

about how nutrition affects memory and focus, my book, Boost Your Brainpower: A Guide to Improving Your Memory and Focus, is available on Amazon. I a lso host Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan every Saturday at 8 a.m. on AM 970 and at 2 p.m. on AM 710, where we translate research from institutions such as Harvard and the National Institutes of Health into practical steps you can use right away.

N ational Nutrition Month isnʼt about perfection. Itʼs about progress — moving away from outdated food dogma and toward evidence-based, whole-food nutrition that supports brain clarity, heart health, and long-term vitality.

To learn more, call 201-2612150, email info@kaplanb rainandbody.com, or visit www.kaplandc.com. Your plate is powerful. What you choose today shapes how your brain and body perform tomorrow.

The Art School at Old Church (TASOC) will present two exhibitions this spring at its galleries in Demarest: “Allan Drossman, A Retrospective,” at the Mikhal Zakin Gallery, and “Insights and Inspirations,” on view Cafe Gallery, both through March 31.

“Allan Drossman, A Retrospective” (his work pictured) is a posthumous exhibit and sale highlighting Drossmanʼs decades-long exploration of clay, reflecting themes of the natural environment — its beauty, destruction and rebirth. He worked professionally in graphic arts, designing for ABC and CBS News. His work earned three Emmy Awards and two Writers Guild Awards. In the late 1990s, he began working in clay and took classes at TASOC. To

honor his memory and the schoolʼs role in his ceramics practice, all proceeds from the sale of his work will benefit TASOC programs and financial aid initiatives.

“Insights and Inspirations” features work by accomplished TASOC students, showcasing a range of media and personal styles developed through classes led by professional artists Jane Chang and Molly Ma.

The public is invited to attend a joint opening reception Thursday, March 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. The Mikhal Zakin Gallery and Cafe Gallery are at 561 Piermont Road, adjoining The Art School at Old Church, founded in 1974. Visit tasoc.org or call (201) 767-7160 for hours and more.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

‘Spring forward’ with a healthier smile

By Dr. Mariliza LaCap, DDS Washington Dental Associates (Bergenfield, N.J.) & Smile More Dentistry (Tappan, N.Y.)

Each March, we adjust our clocks, reorganize our homes, and think about fresh starts. Spring has long symbolized renewal. Yet one important area is often overlooked during this seasonal reset: oral health.

Preventive dentistry is not simply about keeping teeth clean. It is about protecting long-term health, reducing inflammation, and avoiding costly, complex treatment down the road. In clinical practice, the difference between prevention and delay is often the difference between a simple filling and a root canal — or between mild gingivitis and advanced periodontal disease.

Prevention More Predictable Than Repair

Dental disease is progressive. Cavities do not suddenly appear as large holes; they begin microscopically. Gum disease does not start with loose teeth; it begins with subtle inflammation. The earlier these conditions are identified, the more conservative and effective treatment can be.

A small area of decay detected during a routine exam may require only minimal restorative care. Left undiagnosed, bacteria continue to penetrate deeper layers of the tooth, eventually reaching the nerve. At that point, treatment becomes more invasive, more time-intensive, and more expensive.

The same principle applies to periodontal health. Early gum inflammation can often be reversed through professional cleanings and improved home care. Once bone loss begins, management becomes more complex and requires ongoing maintenance.

Prevention is not only clinically sound — it is biologically respectful. It allows intervention before irreversible structural damage occurs.

The Oral–Systemic Connection

Modern research continues to confirm what healthcare professionals have long understood: the mouth is not separate from the body

Chronic oral inflammation has been linked to systemic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

For individuals managing diabetes in particular, gum health plays a critical role in blood sugar regulation. Inflammation in the gums can make glycemic control more difficult, creating a cycle that affects overall health. Routine dental care becomes part of a comprehensive health strategy — not an isolated service.

When patients maintain consistent preventive visits, dentists are not only evaluating teeth. These visits also include screening for oral cancer, monitoring tissue health,

assessing bite function, and identifying early changes that may signal broader health concerns.

Professional Cleanings Do More Than Polish Teeth

Even the most diligent brushing and flossing cannot fully remove hardened tartar once it forms below the gumline. Professional cleanings disrupt bacterial colonies that contribute to decay and periodontal disease and allow clinicians to detect subtle changes patients may not notice at home.

Preventive appointments are typically efficient and straightforward. They are designed to preserve health, not create complexity. Patients often leave with reassurance, clarity, and actionable guidance tailored to their individual risk factors.

Financial Wisdom Through Prevention

From a financial standpoint, preventive dentistry is one of the most cost-effective healthcare investments available. Routine exams and cleanings are modest compared to the expense of

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advanced restorative or surgical procedures.

Delaying care does not eliminate need — it simply increases the scale of intervention required later. Early detection consistently leads to simpler treatment plans and more predictable outcomes.

A Spring Reset for Your Health

Spring invites us to evaluate routines and make intentional improvements. Just as we change batteries in smoke detectors when we adjust our clocks, scheduling a dental evaluation can serve as a meaningful health checkpoint.

If it has been more than six months since your last visit — or if you have noticed sensitivity, bleeding gums, or discomfort — this season offers a timely opportunity to take action.

Preventive dentistry is not about reacting to pain. It is about preserving strength, stability, and confidence long before problems arise. As we move into a new season, consider making oral health part of your overall spring renewal plan. To schedule your spring visit,

call the Bergenfield office at 201374-7489 or the Tappan office at 845-367-7782. Mention this article and receive $50 off any treatment.

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Office hours are 9 a.m.–8 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturdays to accommodate busy schedules.

Dr. LaCap and her husband are graduates of the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, where they both graduated at the top of their class. They are the owners of Washington Dental Associates, Smile More Dentistry, and Smile More Kidz.

Tappan: 845-367-7782

Bergenfield: 201-374-7489

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In ‘The Cake,’ a baker’s conscience is the main ingredient

Bergen County Players stages Bekah Brunstetter’s timely dramedy

March 14–April 11

ORADELL — A wedding cake might seem like the easy part.

But in Bergen County Playersʼ upcoming production of The Cake, the frosting is the least complicated thing on the table. The dramedy, written by Bekah Brunstetter—producer and writer for the TV series This Is Us—asks what happens when love and loyalty collide with faith and long-held conviction, and

whether people can find a way back to one another when the stakes feel personal and absolute.

Directed by Teaneck resident Carol Fisher, The Cake opens March 14 and runs through April 11 at the Little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road.

Inspired by real-life headlines and a case that made its way to the U.S. Supreme Court, the play centers on Della, a warm, devout Christian baker in North Carolina. Her world is shaken when Jen—the daughter of Dellaʼs late best friend, and someone she considers almost

Englewood Health announces board leadership

ENGLEWOOD — Englewood Health has announced several new appointments to its Boards of Trustees, effective Feb. 24.

Steven E. Siesser has been appointed chairman of the Board of Trustees of Englewood Health and Englewood Hospital. Siesser has served on the board since 2010 and is a partner at Lowenstein Sandler, where he chairs the firmʼs private equity practice and co-chairs its Transactions & Advisory Group.

Jonathan Abad was named vice chairman of the Englewood Health and Englewood Hospital Board. A board member since 2012, Abad is co-owner of General Trading Co., a Carlstadt-based wholesale food distributor serving more than 2,000 supermarkets across the New York metropolitan area.

H. Gary Gabriel has been appointed to the Englewood Health and Englewood Hospital Board. Gabriel is executive vice chairman of the Metropolitan Area Capital

Markets Group at Cushman & Wakefield and leads the firmʼs Industrial Advisory Group in the Northeast.

Celinés Morales-Ribeiro, MD, has also joined the board. She is vice president of the medical staff at Englewood Hospital and serves as director of obesity medicine and metabolic and bariatric surgery at Englewood Health.

In addition, Victor J. Paparazzo and Zachary Sirota have been appointed to the Englewood Health Foundation Board of Trustees. Paparazzo is founder of Toscana Cheese Co., while Sirota is a senior managing director and partner at IRON Financial.

“Weʼre incredibly fortunate to welcome such a strong group of leaders to our boards,” said Warren Geller, president and CEO of Englewood Health. “Their experience and commitment will help guide Englewood Health as we continue to grow and serve our communities.”

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like family—asks her to create a wedding cake for her and her lesbian partner, Macy.

The premise sounds like itʼs built for argument. Instead, Fisher said, the play aims for something more human: the messy middle ground where people are trying— sometimes clumsily, sometimes stubbornly—to hold onto what they believe while also holding onto each other.

“For me, The Cake is a story of love, understanding and redemption,” Fisher said. “It portrays real people trying hard to find a path back to each other. In a time when we seem to be going backwards in many ways, a play about love and understanding can be very moving and help remind us to have more acceptance of people not like us.”

A Bergen County Players Life Member, Fisher has directed a range of productions for the company, including Pride and Prejudice, Church and State, The Lion in Winter, The Last Night of Ballyhoo, A Shayna Maidel, Is There Life After

High School? and Sordid Lives She has also appeared on the Little Firehouse Theatre stage in productions including Steel Magnolias, Pippin and One Flew Over the Cuckooʼs Nest

The cast includes Holly Cerelli of Hasbrouck Heights in her Bergen County Players debut as Della. John Klemek of Ringwood, also new to BCP, plays Tim, Dellaʼs husband. Angelina Aragona of Township of Washington plays Jen, and Kylah Wilson of Paterson plays Macy. Rounding out the cast is BCP veteran Larry Brustofski of Oakland, who voices George, host of The Great American Bake-Off—and, in the playʼs world, a sort of sharpedged conscience running alongside Dellaʼs decisions.

Bergen County Players will donate a portion of its 2025–2026 season proceeds to Joanʼs Joy Foundation of Hillsdale, which honors the memory of 7-year-old Girl Scout Joan Angela DʼAlessandro. The foundation promotes child safety through programs and provides

fun experiences for at-risk children.

If you go

The Cake runs March 14–April 11 at Bergen County PlayersʼLittle Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell. Showtimes are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $30 Fridays and Saturdays and $28 Sundays. Purchase online at bcplayers.org, by phone at 201-261-4200, or at the box office during regular hours.

A Questions & Artists talkback session will be held following the Friday, March 20 performance, with cast and crew joined by Dan Daily, who played Tim in the Broadway production of The Cake. Please note: The play contains adult themes, language and content, as well as partial nudity

Veolia:

FROM PAGE 1

r egional president of Veoliaʼs operations in New Jersey, in a statement shared with us on Feb. 2 0. “Itʼs important that customers understand that recent snow and rain have not resolved our water supply challenges. We are asking everyone to make conservation a daily habit.”

Veolia said the region has been drier than usual over the past 18 months, with precipitation about 15 inches below normal—a shortfall that prompted

notice signs of a leak, such as water bubbling in the street.

Josh Engelking, Veolia senior director of operations, walks along the banks of the O radell Reservoir recently. The area he’s strolling is usually underwater. Veolia photo.

the New Jersey Department of E nvironmental Protection to issue a statewide drought warning in December. While Veolia said it continuesto meet customer demand,the extended dry period underscores the need for ongoing conservation.

Every Gallon Counts

Veolia encouraged residents to take simple steps such as repairing household leaks, eliminating unnecessary water use, and practicing daily conservation habits. The company also asked customers to call if they

Veolia said it has been working to safeguard water supplies through infrastructure improvements, including identifying and repairing more than 1,000 hidden underground leaks in recent years using technologies such as acoustic sensors, satellite imagery, drones, and data analytics. The c ompany also described a process that captures water used to flush fire hydrants and moves it through advanced filters until it is clean enough to return to the system rather than running into the street. Together, Veolia said, these efforts have saved billions of gallons o f treated water that would otherwise be lost.

“ Our reservoirs are the heart of daily life in northern New Jersey and safeguarding them is both a responsibility and a privilege,” said Kendra Morris, CEO of Veoliaʼs regulated water business in North America. She said teams are monitoring reservoir levels, demand, and weather conditions “around the clock.”

Morris thanked customers for being mindful of water use and urged conservation as spring approaches and water demand typically increases— steps that, Veolia said, may help avoid restrictions later.

— Staff report based on submission via Debra Vial, director of communications and community relations at Veolia North America

S S FROM PAGE 1

violist Tanner Menees. The church said the program will include Armenian folk songs by Komitas, Scandinavian selections, and Dvořákʼs String Quartet No. 12, Op. 96 (“American”).

“Weʼre really pleased that the Carriage House Concerts have found a home in the intimacy of our old stone chapel,” Rev. Dr. Martin Ritchie tells N orthern Valley Press “The acoustic is excellent for chamber music and this will be an exciting experience for the audience.”

Ah, but first: the churchʼs spring concerts include a piano recital by Victoria Schwartzman on Sunday, March 15, at 4:30 p.m. in the main sanctuary at the same address. Schwartzman, a pianist and vocal coach who recently relocated to Englewood, will perform on the churchʼs Mason & Hamlin grand piano.

A chance meeting with Ritchie led to the invitation, the church said. The program will include Beethovenʼs Sonata No. 31 in A-flat major, Op. 110; Chopinʼs Ballade No. 1 in G minor; and Prokofievʼs Sonata No. 2 in D minor, Op. 14.

“Weʼre thrilled to be welcoming such a talented artist to the church, especially as sheʼs new to the neighborhood,” Ritchie said. “We know that audiences will be blown away by her playing and are very much looking forward to the occasion.”

Born in St. Petersburg, Russia,

The church’s spring concerts include a piano recital by Victoria

Schwartzman performs regularly as a soloist and chamber musician and has appeared in venues and festival series including Merkin Hall, Bargemusic and the Bard Music Festival, according to the church. She is on the coaching faculty in the vocal department at Montclair State University and is on the piano faculty at the Bard College Conservatory Preparatory Division. She is a founder of the Newburgh Music Festival, a weeklong immersive classical music program. Admission to the March 15 recital is free, though donations supporting the arts outreach program are welcome. Tickets for the March 22 Carriage House Concert are available through Eventbrite, the church said.

At a glance •Victoria Schwartzman piano

recital: Sunday, March 15, 4:30 p.m., main sanctuary, 55 Magnolia Ave. Free admission; donations welcome.

•Carriage House Concert (“Roots”): Sunday, March 22, 5 p.m., old stone chapel, Presbyterian Church at Tenafly, 55 Magnolia

Ave. Tickets via Eventbrite. For more information, visit victoriaschwartzman.com and https://tenaflypresby.org.

Ramadan ceremony illuminates city from within

BY HILLARY VIDERS OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS

ENGLEWOOD

The city hosted a Ramadan community ceremony Feb. 16 at the municipal building on N. Van Brunt St.

More than three dozen residents and visitors attended the event, joined by Mayor Michael Wildes; Bergen County Executive James Tedesco III; Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton; Assem-

Ramadan obserances included a team trivia-style competition focused on Muslim culture and traditions. Several Muslim community leaders spoke about the meaning of the month, and elected officials praised Englewood’s efforts to recognize and celebrate the community’s diversity. Hillary Viders photos.

officials praised Englewoodʼs efforts to recognize and celebrate the communityʼs diversity.

A 4-year-old girl recited a prayer in Arabic, which was trans-

lated for the audience.

A highlight of the ceremony was the lighting of a large crescent display decorated with dozens of small lights. Tedesco noted that

blywoman Shama Haider; City Manager Robert Hoffmann; Assistant City Manager John Birkner; and members of the Englewood Police and Fire departments.

The ceremony was organized by Executive Assistant Catherine Melendez with assistance from City Hall Clerk Yancy Wazirmas.

Ramadan is a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide. It falls in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is one of Islamʼs Five Pillars. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, a practice associated with self-discipline, prayer, charity and reflection.

At the Englewood gathering, attendees learned about Ramadan, mingled and enjoyed light refreshments. The program included a team trivia-style competition focused on Muslim culture and traditions. Several Muslim community leaders spoke about the meaning of the month, and elected

crescent-lighting celebrations have expanded across Bergen County and presented the city with a proclamation recognizing Englewoodʼs observance.

Wildes, thanking organizers and officials, said the event was an opportunity to “illuminate the val-

ues that define us: faith, family, reflection, generosity and unity,” and emphasized Englewoodʼs commitment to inclusion among its many faith communities.

Tuesday – Wednesday April 28 –29, 2026

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$420.00 per person Double $490.00 Single

Wednesday, May 13,2026

WHITNEY MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART, NYC

$127.00 per person- Transportation, Admission, Lunch

Wednesday, May 27, 2026

SCHMIGADOON ON BROADWAY

$180.00 per person – Orchestra and Transportation

Tuesday, June 9, 2026

CASA BIANCA, OAK RIDGE, NJ

$165.00 per person – Admission to Jersey Boys and lunch (food and fun and a great show)

Tuesday – Thursday, June 16-18, 2026

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$550.00 Double per person $695 Single

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB – ON BROADWAY

$180.00 pp- Orchestra and Transportation

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

LYNDHURST MANSION, NY

$120.00 per person – Transportation, Admission to the Lyndhurst Mansion, Lunch

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE

$125.00 pp – Transportation, Admission, Lunch at the Peacock Café

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RESORTS LODGE – CATSKILLS

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REAL ESTATE

Bipartisan House bill on housing affordability

U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D–NJ-5) helped introduce two bipartisan bills with U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler (R–NY-17) aimed at boosting housing affordability in North Jersey and helping middleclass families and first responders afford to live in the communities they serve, according to Gottheimerʼs office.

Gottheimer said many police officers, firefighters, teachers, nurses, and other essential workers earn too much to qualify for

traditional affordable housing but still struggle with rising rents and home prices.

“Bottom line: weʼve got to make housing more affordable for families. Hard-working Jersey families and our first responders shouldnʼt be priced out of their own communities,” Gottheimer said. “These commonsense bipartisan bills will cut red tape and help make homeownership and more affordable housing a reality for our communities and the

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heroes who keep them safe.”

Lawler said the measures modernize housing policy and expand access to homeownership for middle-class families and essential workers.

One proposal, the Housing for Americaʼs Middle Class Act, would direct a study of housing affordability challenges facing middle-income households, identify gaps in federal housing programs that exclude middle-class families, and recommend an income-based definition of “workforce housing,” according to the release.

The second bill, the Housing for Heroes Act, would expand eligibility for HUD-owned homes at a 50% discount nationwide and allow police officers, firefighters, EMTs, teachers, and members of the armed forces to participate regardless of location, the release said. The bill would also require

buyers to live in the home for at least three years.

For more information, contact Haraden Bottomley, commu-

nications director, Office of Congressman Josh Gottheimer, at (202) 225-4465.

Valley Chabad will host Omer Shem Tov for an evening talk on March 25 at 7 p.m. in Woodcliff Lake, where he will share his story of survival and resilience after being taken hostage during the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks. Valley Chabad said Shem Tov was abducted from the Nova music festival and held captive for 505 days.

The program is being presented in the lead-up to Passover, which Valley Chabad noted is centered on themes of freedom and redemption. The community is invited to attend; registration is requested at valleychabad.org/shemtov.

Primary:

FROM PAGE 7

trust in elections, and discourage you from voting,” Hogan said.

Officials said allegations of election or voting fraud should be submitted in writing to voterfraudtips@BergenCountyNJ.gov.

Francica said the county has two investigators who review fraud allegations.

“We need these complaints in writing so we can follow up,” Francica said.

Hogan said that in last yearʼs primary and general election, election officials and clerks “delivered fair, open and honest elections.”

“By so doing, we celebrate and

reaffirm our democratic republic, our representative democracy and our government elected by the people,” Hogan said. “A lot of people work real hard to successfully carry out an election.”

Get the Facts

For accurate voting information, contact county or local election officials

Voters and potential voters can use the following phone numbers and emails to get accurate information on registering to vote, vote-bymail ballots, early voting, becoming a poll worker, and more. Your townʼs municipal clerk is also a good source of local election information.

Vote-by-mail ballots: Bergen County Clerkʼs Elections Division, 201-336-7020,

electionsclerk@bergencountynj.go

v Polling places / becoming a poll worker: Bergen County Board of Elections, 201-336-6225, elections@bergencountynj.gov

Voter registration / reporting a potential election violation: Bergen County Superintendent of Elections, 201-336-6109, soe@bergencountynj.gov

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