PASCACKPRESS 11.24.25NEW

Holiday Shopping Guide

THE FRESH MARKETOUT, TRADER JOE’S ANDMOREIN?

Ghassali teases changes, says Planning Board gets proposal Dec. 2

BYJOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

A proposal that would bring Trader Joeʼs and several popular fast-casual restaurant brands to the Chestnut Ridge Shopping Center is set for review by the Montvale Planning Board on Monday, Dec. 2, Mayor Mike Ghassali announced this week.

In a message to residents, Ghassali said the application includes renovating the current Fresh Market space to accommodate Trader Joeʼs, which would “replace” the existing grocer. In addition, three new eateries — Shake Shack, CAVA, and Honeygrow — are proposed for a new pad site within the shopping centerʼs parking area near Drop Fitness.

The Planning Board will take up the use applications at its meeting on Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. Ghassali invited interested residents to attend, said he expects to provide an update once the hearing concludes, and expressed optimism that the businesses could soon be welcomed to town.

See MARKET on page 6

9U OWLS NEBAS CHAMPS AGAIN 9UOWLS NEBAS CHAMPS AGAIN

Edge out worthy foes Northern Valley; take back-to-back spring, fall titles

THE P ARK Ridge Owls

9U capped their fall season in dramatic fashion on Saturday, capturing their second NEBAS championship of the year with a gritty, pressure-

filled win over Northern Valley in a true top-flight division showdown.

Both teams came in battletested, and the game unfolded as a tight, defense-first contest

HARDCOVER HOME

worthy of a championship stage. Park Ridge held a 1–0 lead into the bottom of the fifth, where several well-struck balls finally found outfield grass,

Continued on page 10

Town sited improvements without a lease; earlier vote was improper; noise, safety woes; new hearing Dec. 2

BYMICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

Some two dozen residents opposed DPW operations at a Bethany Church lot off Woodfield Road at a special meeting Nov. 17, where Township Council introduced an ordinance, 3–1, to allow such operations at the 1.25-acre leased site.

The re-introduction was needed after officials discovered the Nov. 10 vote approving the 18month, $104,400 Bethany lease

See DPW on page 30

As Park Ridge prepares for Thanksgiving it seems fitting to revisit the life of a man whose nickname still echoes faintly through local history — “Turkey John” Blauvelt. Kristin Beuscher reports. PAGE 4

Print is worth preserving

To the editor:

I ENJOYAND agree with most of what you write and print in the Pascack Press I was especially interested in your commentary about print journalism. (“Shifting legal notices online, for good and ill” in the Nov. 10, 2025 issue, page 7.)

At my age Iʼm probably considered over the hill and thatʼs fine with me. I grew up with books placed in my hands at a very young age. I was read to, and I read to my children, and we continue to enjoy reading as

adults. In school I did research the old fashioned way: I sat in the library, poring over reference material.

I am the only one on my block who subscribes to and receives The Record delivered to my driveway six days a week. I like to pick something up in my hands and read it, put it down, and go back to it at my leisure. I notice the two local weekly papers that are delivered to homes around town often remain in driveways until rain and wind take over.

Recently I learned that The Old Farmerʼs Almanac will print its last issue in 2026. More than 200 years of that publication will come to an end because, as they say, you can always read it online.

Well, that doesnʼt work for me. I still want to pick it up, read it, bookmark it, and go back to it at my leisure.

Please continue your fine work in print journalism. I look forward to reading your columns every week.

Jean Himes

Township of Washington

year. It certainly has been, and remains, a treasure, exactly as you describe. Thanks for taking the time to write in.

Helping Hand says thanks

To the editor: ASTRUSTEES

fy the awareness of food insecurity and the role that a food pantry plays in addressing it. It also resulted in an overwhelming response from the community.

The pantry assists many people in the Pascack Valley each month. It helps its neighbors maintain their quality of life and personal dignity by providing food and food gift certificates during their time of unexpected hardship.

of the Helping Hand Food pantry, we thank you for your recent articles highlighting the need for donations at the Helping Hand Food Pantry. Your coverage not only sheds light on the growing need in our community but also helped ampli-

Thank you again for your articles and your continued support of our pantry.

Susan Gleeson on behalf of the Trustees of the Helping Hand Food Pantry, Hillsdale

The editor replies: Jean, I canʼt thank you enough for your lovely endorsement of my views, our work, and the wider field. And, if Imight, Iʼm sure our friends at those other local publications would want me to thank you on their behalf as well. Iwas surprised to learn from you — and yes, itʼs so — that The Old Farmerʼs Almanac is shutting down its print publication next CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

Cookies and Cocoa with Santa Dec. 12

The Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club and Park Ridge Elks Lodge #2234 invite families to a magical evening of Cookies and Cocoa with Santa on Friday, Dec. 12, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge on Sulak Lane.

The festive celebration will feature games, crafts, stories, and songs for children, plus Tricky Tray and 50/50 raffles for adults. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand for photos, so guests are

encouraged to bring their cameras. Tickets are $8 for children ages 1–10 and $12 for guests 11 and older. All proceeds benefit local charities supported by the Elks and the Womanʼs Club.

Attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food for the Tri-Boro Food Pantry, along with unneeded cell phones, eyeglasses, and gently used shoes or sneakers for repurposing or recycling. Reservations are required and

must be received by Dec. 5. To reserve, send a check payable to Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club—along with your contact information, number of children attending, and their ages—to: Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club

P.O. Box 3

Park Ridge, NJ 07656

For more information, call (201) 746-5783 or email gpvwc1990@gmail.com.

Repeat champs

WOODCLIFFLAKE

Before a passionate, supportive crowd, Woodcliff Lake repeated as champions in the Adult Bergen Travel Basketball league (Navy division), defeating Dumont, 51-48, in a game played at the Woodcliff Lake Middle School. “It was a tight game throughout that required a full team defensive effort along with clutch shotmaking and free throw shooting to seal the victory.”

John Perez, Andrew Rozov, and Steve Finkelstein.

Elvis promises a return to the 2025 Home For the Holidays parade. Above: Elvises

Bckintime... Bckintime...

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

DEC. 6

W

ESTWOODʼS annual Home for the Holidays celebration returns Saturday, Dec. 6, with a full slate of downtown activities leading up to the nighttime parade and tree lighting in Veterans Park.

More than 50 local organizations, businesses, youth groups, classic car owners, marching bands, and dance troupes are expected to take part. The parade—this year themed “Our Favorite Holiday Movies”— steps off at 6 p.m. on Westwood Avenue and will be held rain, snow, or shine. A tree lighting and photos with Santa will follow.

This yearʼs event will also be livestreamed by the Westwood Regional High School film and television program. Viewers at home can tune in starting at 5 p.m. at https://tinyurl.com/2025HFTHLIVE

Festivities begin earlier in the afternoon across the borough:

•3:15 p.m. – Craft activity, storytime with Mrs. Claus, and performance by the Westwood High School Chamber Choir at the Westwood Public Library.

•5:15 p.m. – Pre-parade entertainment at Center Avenue and Broadway.

• 7 p.m. – The Bergen County Players Holiday Carolers at the bandstand.

•8 p.m. – Westwood Communi-

See HOME page 19

The Story of ‘Turkey John’ Blauvelt SEE YOU

BY KRISTIN BEUSCHER SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

AS PARK RIDGEPREPARES for Thanksgiving, it seems fitting to revisit the life of a man whose nickname still echoes faintly through local history: “Turkey John” Blauvelt, more properly John A. Blauvelt — farmer, storekeeper, Park Ridgeʼs first postmaster, real estate speculator, and one of the quiet architects of the jumping upper Pascack Valley.

SPECIALTO PASCACK PRESS

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

Largely forgotten today, 150 years ago everyone knew him. In the sparsely settled Pascack region, social circles were small, and Blauveltʼs constant involvement in village life ensured his name was familiar to nearly every household.

Blauvelt was born 200 years ago in Rockland County, the son of Abraham Blauvelt, a farmer, and his wife Hannah (or Annaetje, in Jersey Dutch) of Nanuet. His grandfather, Lt. Cornelius J. Blauvelt, served with the New York Militia during the Revolutionary War, anchoring the family firmly in the early story of the region.

In 1846, at 21, John married Ellen Perry, then 18, at the Saddle River Reformed Church. They had one daughter, Hannah Priscilla, named for their two mothers. Blauvelt operated a general store in Old Tappan near what is now the River Vale border, and at some point acquired the nickname “Turkey John,” for reasons lost entirely to history — a rarity in a region where peopleʼs quirks were well remembered.

The family arrived in Park Ridge in the early 1860s and settled on the northeast corner of Park and Maple avenues. The house stood for many decades before its eventual demolition, but in its time it was a known local landmark.

Blauveltʼs ambitions, however, extended beyond shopkeeping. He ventured into land development, a move that would permanently alter the course of Park Ridge and its neighboring towns.

Working with David M. Demarest, president of the Irving Savings Bank of New York City, Blauvelt subdivided the former Isaac D. Perry estate — nearly 100 acres in eastern Park Ridge. Together they carved this farm-

There are no known portraits of John A.

John” Blauvelt, but the Pascack Historical Society retains the original photograph of his daughter, Hannah, and her husband, Alonzo Campbell. Alonzo was a farmer and undertaker in Park Ridge and a member of the Campbell family of wampum-making fame. The couple posed on Dec. 8, 1877, when she was 24 and he was 26.

land into hundreds of residential lots and mapped an entirely new suburban-style neighborhood in what was then a rural village. Their advertisements targeted New York City residents, urging them to seek a healthier life in the countryside and take advantage of the newly installed railroad service for commuting. These early newcomers — the Pascack Valleyʼs first wave of suburban commuters — marked the beginning of a lifestyle shift that shapes the region to this day

But Blauveltʼs influence went even further The path of the Pascack Valley rail line north of Hillsdale has a distinctive bend northeastward. Originally, the plan was quite different: the Hackensack & New York Extension Railroad intended to drive the tracks northwest, crossing Pascack Brook and continuing in a straight line toward Spring Valley.

Under that alignment, rail service — and therefore business districts — would have centered along:

•Woodcliff Avenue and Pascack Road in Woodcliff Lake

•Fremont, Ridge, and Colony avenues in Park Ridge

•The west side of Montvale, paralleling Spring Valley Road

•Those quiet residential streets would today be busy downtown corridors.

Why didnʼt it happen? The farmers along that western route refused. They objected to their land being split in two; sparks from steam engines possibly igniting fields; locomotives spooking horses; cows becoming anxious and failing to give milk

With the route stalled, Blauvelt and Demarest stepped in. They offered the railroad free right-of-way across their own property, proposing a path east of Pascack Brook instead. The railroad accepted. It was a mutually beneficial deal: they supplied the land, and the railroad brought value to their new residential development.

Thus, the present course of the Pascack Valley Line took shape, opening in 1871.

Demarest Farm sues, self-storage passes, and more

MONTVALE / REGIONAL

Demarest Farm sues to void DePiero lease award; Dec. 8 hearing set

Demarest Farm & Orchard LLC has filed a Superior Court lawsuit challenging Montvaleʼs decision to award a 20-year lease for the former DePiero Farm property to DʼAgostino Landscaping of West Nyack.

The borough selected DʼAgostinoʼs $43,200 annual proposal on Oct. 28, well above the $12,000 bids submitted by Demarest and by bidders Matthew Worgul and Matthew Epstein.

The complaint argues the winning bidder does not meet key requirements in the publicly advertised bid specifications.

Demarest Farm contends DʼAgostino operates a nursery rather than a retail farm, that its primary operation is more than 10 miles from the Montvale site, and that the company lacks the infrastructure needed to run and improve the property as outlined.

DʼAgostinoʼs attorneys rebut the claims, saying the firm has operated a qualifying commercial farm in Highland Mills, N.Y., for more than 20 years and has long grown and sold plants from the DePiero greenhouses.

Borough Attorney David Lafferty wrote that Demarestʼs lower bid — 73% less over the life of the lease — does not serve the public interest.

Superior Court Judge Gregg Padovano will hear arguments

Staff writer Michael Olohan covers hot-button issues in Montvale, Hillsdale, and Woodcliff Lake

Dec. 8 in Hackensack. The 106page complaint, filed Oct. 30, is available via New Jersey eCourts under docket BER-L-007274-25.

Full story at thepressgroup.net

HILLSDALE

Planning Board approves self-storage facility; stormwater, safety concerns debated

The Planning Board voted 6–1 on Nov. 13 to approve construction of a 110,000-squarefoot, four-story self-storage building and a 72-space vehicle storage lot at 560 Piermont Ave., a decision that came after extensive debate over runoff, flooding, and public safety.

St. John the Baptist Church, whose property is in a flood zone, raised concerns that the project could worsen flooding, with experts testifying that existing drainage pipes are undersized for major storms.

Borough engineer Chris Statile told the board that flooding is primarily caused by Pascack Brook backing up into stormwater pipes, not by the sizing of the pipes themselves.

Applicant attorney Jason Tuvel said the project will explore mitigation such as a “green roof” and noted that stormwater and impervious cover will be reduced under the redevelopment plan.

Several residents warned

about increased flooding, traffic near the church, and unsafe vehicle movements tied to the siteʼs configuration.

The board attached a detailed list of conditions, including stormwater inspections, landscaping and lighting reviews, bollards around the vehicle storage lot, requirements for registered and operable stored vehicles, and exploration of roof-based water retention. A memorializing resolution is scheduled for Dec. 11.

Full story at thepressgroup.net

WOODCLIFF LAKE

Supportive housing testimony continues for 300 Chestnut Ridge Road plan

The Land Use Board heard additional testimony Nov. 13 on the supportive housing component of the 300 Chestnut Ridge Road mixed-use redevelopment, where 26 apartments will provide 40 beds for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Steve Setteducati, CEO of New Concepts for Living, said the organization operates community residences across Bergen County and that demand for such housing is “in the thousands” statewide.

The plan includes 24/7 staffing, small “family-style” apartments, and transportation via unmarked vans.

Residents and officials questioned how placement priority

would work for Woodcliff Lake residents, staffing ratios, unit configurations, and anticipated traffic impacts.

Setteducati said NCFL would “certainly give them preferential treatment,” though placements remain subject to state rules.

Architect Michael Lawson outlined the building breakdown — 16 one-bedroom units, eight two-bedroom units, and two four-

bedroom units — and noted that the 40 beds count toward the boroughʼs affordable housing obligation.

The 21-acre redevelopment plan, approved by the Borough Council in September, also includes 47 townhomes, a 297unit multifamily building with 34 affordable units, and 9,000 square feet of retail space.

The hearing will continue Dec. 2 with testimony from a traffic expert.

Full story at thepressgroup.net

Market:

The mayor also hinted at another potential economic development announcement, noting that the borough is “hopeful” a major company will relocate to Montvale and fully occupy an office building now partially filled.

ʻWe Will Not Be Closingʼ

We called The Fresh Market for comment on Nov. 18. After hearing the reason for our call, store manager Melissa Boffa told us, “We will not be closing and

Iʼm not willing to speak about it.” She referred us to corporate, which we called and from which and we are waiting to hear back. There has been no announcement on such plans from The Fresh Market, which in September sold to Chilean retail giant Cencosud.

Ghassali told us later that the information is consistent with

public information from the applicantʼs attorney, Gail Price of Price, Meese, Shulman and DʼArminio, PC, of Woodcliff Lake — which also advised him to pull down his related post until after the Planning Board meeting of Dec. 2.

We prompted Ghassali, “So you are led to believe, confidently,

Residents interested in the proposal can attend the Dec. 2 Planning Board meeting at Borough Hall. Any approvals — including site plan considerations, traffic review, and architectural details — would advance through that process.

that The Fresh Market is closing, and will be replaced by Trader Joeʼs, according to this proposal, which you have seen.” He said, “Yeah, I was led to believe thatʼs the situation; thatʼs the information I had, and still have: Trader Joeʼs is moving to a spot where Fresh Market is, and that means

that Fresh Market is leaving.” The Planning Board agenda has yet to be posted. We have filed a public records request for the application. We also left voicemail with Price asking her to comment on the proposal.

Founded in 1982 by Ray

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Market:

the

and specialty items.

says it operates 172 stores across 22 states, with a particularly strong presence in the Southeast.

In October the company confirmed that two locations — in Naperville, Ill., and Framingham, Mass. — were to shut down once

existing inventory was sold through. The decision reportedly followed a review of the chainʼs full store portfolio, and Fresh Market officials said the brand remains focused on expansion and opening new locations in targeted markets.

This reporter worked at the Chestnut Ridge Road Fresh Market deli in 2017, when employees were much concerned with the rumored new Whole Foods Market, now at 500 Chestnut Ridge Road in Woodcliff Lake.

Regional Discussion Follows Announcement

Ghassaliʼs announcement generated significant attention on Facebook, where hundreds of comments from Montvale residents and neighboring Rockland County communities quickly accumulated. While many local

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

residents welcomed the news, the discussion soon broadened into a wider conversation about supermarket and retail development in the Lower Hudson Valley.

Several commenters from Rockland County expressed frustration that new grocery and dining options such as Trader Joeʼs continue to open across the border in Bergen County, rather than in towns like Clarkstown and Nanuet. Some urged their own local officials to pursue similar retailers and rethink development strategies.

Others questioned why prior efforts to bring Trader Joeʼs to Rockland have not resulted in a location there, pointing to shifting market conditions, site availability, and the companyʼs internal criteria for store placement. Longtime residents noted that petitions have circulated for years without success.

At the same time, many Ber-

gen County commenters celebrated the prospect of additional shopping and dining opportunities in Montvale, citing the boroughʼs strong demographics, proximity to major highways, and history of attracting popular retail brands. There is a Trader Joeʼs in Westwood, at 20 Irvington St.

Next Steps

Residents interested in the proposal can attend the Dec. 2 Planning Board meeting at Borough Hall. Any approvals — including site plan considerations, traffic review, and architectural details — would advance through the standard local land use process.

Ghassali said he will share additional information after the hearing and expects to have more economic development news to report “in the coming days.”

Women United in Philanthropy expands reach

As federal funding cuts and policy changes affect services for women and families, Women United in Philanthropy (WUIP) has announced plans to expand its membership to strengthen its impact here in Bergen County.

60 women attended to discuss ways to respond collectively to growing community needs.

WUIP, the giving circle of the Womenʼs Foundation of New Jersey, hosted an open membership meeting Nov. 5 at Bacari Grill. The event featured guest speakers Liz Corsini, founder of the Collaborative for Organizational Change, and Kate Duggan, executive director of Family Promise of Bergen County and longtime WUIP member. About

WUIP members pool their annual contributions to fund local nonprofits that help women and families achieve stability, security, and opportunity. Over the past 20 years, WUIP has granted more than $1.3 million to organizations in Bergen County.

Recent grantees include:

•The Food Brigade (2023), for a commercial vehicle to expand home delivery of food, diapers, and feminine hygiene products.

•YWCA Northern New

Jerseyʼs Operation Sisterhood (2024), supporting female veterans with case management, workforce development, and survivor services.

•Families for Families (2025), aiding women transitioning from homelessness to permanent housing.

WUIP, headquartered in Westwood, is New Jerseyʼs first womenʼs giving circle dedicated to supporting programs for women and families in Bergen County. Visit womensfoundationnj.org/join-wuip or email patricia@womensfoundationnj.org.

Pearl River Interfaith Thanksgiving service

Beth Am Temple will host the annual Pearl River Interfaith Thanksgiving service on Monday, Nov. 24 at 7:15 p.m. for a family-friendly, one-hour service. A dessert reception will follow. The public is welcome to attend. Beth Am Temple is a reform

temple, which embraces tradition and draws its congregation from throughout Rockland County and northern Bergen County, NJ. It is located on the New York/New Jersey border at 60 East Madison Ave in Pearl River, NY. Visit bethamtemple.org.

Library’s most overdue book returns, with stories

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The premise, for suspense lovers, is impossible to put down. From the publisher: “Historian Jean Sheridan returns to Cornwallon-Hudson, New York, excited about her twenty-year high-school reunion at Stonecroft Academy. But a dear friend of hers soon becomes the fifth woman in the class to meet a sudden, mysterious end…”

Coincidentaally marking a 20year reunion: a copy of that very book — Mary Higgins Clarkʼs “Nighttime Is My Time” — with the Township of Washington Public Library. Mary Quinn checked the relatively new title out on Nov. 18, 2005. Her son, Westwood volunteer firefighter Bill Quinn Jr., who has since lost both his parents, returned the hardcover this week — a last errand for his mom. Twenty years to the day.

He presented himself, somewhat sheepishly, at the circulation desk. “I need to return this book,” he said. “Itʼs way overdue…”

Mary died in 2007. The novel had spent two decades in a box in

the cellar of the Quinn family home on Devon Road, just steps from the library. Quinn found it while clearing out belongings as his father, Bill Sr., prepared to move to the Paramus veterans home. His father died three years ago at age 99 — a day shy of Veterans Day, Bill said.

“When I went through the box,” Quinn said, “I realized it was a library book. And I noticed that it was 20 years overdue today.”

Thatʼs not to say heʼd rushed it over. An avid reader, he first read the 432-page novel cover to cover. He even slipped in a page of notes, his own annotations — a habit he says he developed on his own. “A lot of times when I read a book, I jot little notes down so I can remember things later on,” he said.

He removed the folded page at the desk, at the book handoff, keeping it as his own memento.

Quinn said he reads a book of roughly this length every month.

A Familiar Name at the Desk

Circulation staffer Susan Seligman, startled by the date, called over Janet Baker, head of circulation. Baker looked at the name on the card pocket and brightened instantly.

“Your parents, Bill and Mary?” she said. “I knew them. They were so sweet.”

The Quinns lived close enough to be library regulars. Mary, an avid reader with a special love for Mary Higgins Clark, visited often. Baker recalled her

Westwood firefighter Bill Quinn Jr.returns his late mother,Mary’s, c opy of a suspense classic to Washington Township Public Library staffer Susan Seligman,precisely 20 years past due,after finding it in his late father,Bill’s,effects.He’d have returned it sooner but he got caught up in the story John Snyder photos.

warmth and humor, and remembered how her husband continued to come in after Mary died.

“He would still come in,” Baker said. “He would always say, ʻI want to go out for a hamburger with somebody.ʼ” Quinn smiled at the memory. Baker also recalled when Bill Sr. won a new Harley-Davidson in a Fire Department raffle. Quinn

confirmed his parents sold it to help pay for Maryʼs care.

Ka-chunk! Or, A Card Pocket Out of Time

As staff examined the book — one of Clarkʼs 51 standalone titles — a small crowd gathered. The old book pocket and borrow-

FROM PAGE 1

allowing the Owls to push across

and

Northern Valley answered with a determined surge in the sixth,

Park Ridge to execute under real stress. But the Owlsʼpitching and defense held firm, shutting the door on a potential comeback and sealing a 4–3 victory — and with it, their second NEBAS crown of 2025, following their spring title.

Even better, they won this one on their home field at Colony Field, surrounded by hometown families and teammates from

across the program.

Head coach Greg Waters tells Pascack Press that the moment reflected the heart and consistency the group has shown all year. “Iʼm proud of this group of boys.”

He told Pascack Press, “They battled all year and were fortunate enough to play in four straight championship games. We donʼt take winning for granted — we know how hard it is to get that

final out in a winner-take-all game. This title was a total group effort, and Iʼm excited to continue leading and developing this talented group of young ballplayers.”

Park Ridge news briefs

Lehmann Gardens marks 40 years Lehmann Gardens celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Since opening in 1985, the senior housing community has provided affordable housing and supportive services for Park Ridge residents. The borough extends its thanks to the staff, volunteers, and the Housing Authority of

Bergen County for their continued commitment.

Marching Owls are champs Congratulations to the Park Ridge Marching Owls and Band Director Mr. Diomede for earning first place in the 2025 USBands Group 1 Regional A New Jersey State Championship on Nov. 1.

Boy Scout Troop 80 Troop 80 invites new families to weekly meetings held Mondays at 7:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 13 Sulak Lane. Contact Phil Widmer at 917-446-5833 or Widmerphil@gmail.com.

Weʼre your newspaper: Email news tips to pascackpress@ thepressgroup.net

H HOOLLIIDDAAY Y S SHHOOPPPPIINNG G G GUUIIDDE E featured this week in PASCACK PRESS

Gratitude This Holiday Season

As we enter this holiday season, there seems to be an undeniable sense of uncertainty both at home and abroad. But, whatever circumstances that we may be facing, we can always find a reason to be thankful. 1st Thessalonians chapter 5 verse 18, tells us, “In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God.

This means that even when we don’t feel the holiday spirit, there must be something that we can be grateful for. We can celebrate being alive, having good health and great relationships with our families and friends. If we take a few seconds to think, we can surely find something to be thankful for.

Blauvelt:

Train depots in Woodcliff, Park Ridge, and Montvale became anchors of early village life, with general stores, hotels, and eventually apartment houses springing up beside them.

Without Blauveltʼs intervention, the map of the Pascack Valley and the daily rhythms of thousands of commuters — would look entirely different.

Despite his lasting impact, Blauvelt did not live long enough to see Park Ridge blossom. His wife Ellen died in 1878. He remarried the next year, but died weeks afterward, at 54.

An 1876 map of Park Ridge centers on Depot Square (oval). The black-and-white line represents the railroad tracks. The section at right, divided into lots but not yet built, was part of the Demarest & Blauvelt development. In the upper left, the map shows John A. Blauvelt’s large property, including his home at the corner of Park and Maple avenues.

He rests at Pascack Cemetery, buried alongside Ellen; their daughter Hannah; and Hannahʼs husband, Alonzo Campbell, a Park Ridge farmer and undertaker from the well-known Campbell wampum-making family (learn more at the Pascack Historical Society museum). Had Blauvelt lived into the

new century, he would have witnessed a village transformed — thanks in no small part to choices he made decades earlier.

The River Vale Farmersʼ Market invites you to its annual Thanksgiving Market on Tuesday, Nov. 25, from noon to 4 p.m., two days before the holiday. Shoppers can stock up on breads, pies, produce, charcuterie items, seasonal treats, and readyto-eat options.

Vendors include Hope Cress Farms (turkey pickups, meat, produce), Orlandoʼs Bakery, PickleLicious, Clydeʼs, Cousins Maine Lobster, RainBao,

Empanada Lady, Totally Nutz, Timeless Tallow, and Maggieʼs Munchies. HUMC and the River Vale Police Department will offer car-seat safety checks 2 to 4 p.m. Many vendors will offer seasonal specials and limited-run holiday items, making Tuesday a good opportunity to pick up lastminute treats for hosting, traveling, or gifting. Several popular items sell out quickly each year, so come early for the best selection.

As the final market of the season, families are encouraged to stop by, enjoy favorite vendors one last time, and stock up for winter. Thanksgiving stickers will be available at the managerʼs table.

The River Vale Farmersʼ Market wishes everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays, and will reopen in May 2026.

Managers

Book:

FROM PAGE 9

ing card drew the most attention: a sight not commonly encountered since the library joined the BCCLS consortium years ago, moving to barcodes and shared circulation across dozens of libraries in northeastern New Jersey.

“We havenʼt used that for years,” Baker said.

She recalled stamping outgoing books — that unmistakable kachunk of the date stamp, the sound and motion synonymous with libraries for generations.

Mary Quinn had checked the book out only a week after it had been checked out previously, Nov. 9, 2005, the datestamped above hers. George W. Bush was president.

As director Laura Rifkin joined the conversation at the desk, and board trustee Clarence Pettis drew in to say hello — “His parents used to come in all the time, you know?” — the recognition between Quinn and Baker deepened when Baker shared a memory from Mary Quinnʼs later years, when Alzheimerʼs had begun to intrude.

“She meant to put books in the book drop,” Baker said, “and she left them out, and they got wet.”

Quinn listened as Baker described how his father came in alone afterward, protective. “Donʼt

Jerry Seinfeld fights to stay i n character against the “Dragnet”-serious performa nce of late actor Philip Baker Hall as “Lt. Joe Bookman,” library cop, in a c lassic 1991 episode of “Seinfeld.” Castle Rock Entertainment.

say anything to her,” he told staff.

“She would get very upset.”

Baker added something Quinn had never known.

“We actually took donated books and made them look like library books,” she said — pockets, cards, everything — so that Mary could enjoy reading without worrying about due dates or returns.

Quinn paused, visibly moved.

“Thanks for doing all that,” he told her

“She was lovely,” Baker said.

“Both of your parents were.”

Time hadnʼt been kind to this classic from “the Queen of Suspense,” who died in 2020 at age 92.

The bookʼs spine had loosened; the entire text block had slipped from

the cover. Baker examined it and declared it easily repairable. Staff planned to fix it and return it to circulation — but agreed it first deserved a small display.

The conversation broadened to memories of the neighborhood and the libraryʼs former home — a house on Hudson Avenue, near the old ambulance corps headquarters. Bill caught himself speaking too loudly for a typical library chat, but it was fine: onlookers were following along and smiling.

The mood remained light as Quinn jokingly calculated the overdue fine as if the library still charged one. He estimated “6,000 days… at a dime… $600.”

The actual number — for 7,305 days, including leap years — would have been $730.50. But the library is now fine-free.

And, unlike the “library cop” in Seinfeldʼs famed 1991 episode, bent out of shape about a copy of Henry Millerʼs “Tropic of Cancer” checked out in 1971 and not returned, nobody was waiting to scold him. Rifkin confirmed this was the libraryʼs most overdue return — and now one of its sweetest stories.

A Return, and a Remembering

Before leaving, Quinn chatted with staff about the buildingʼs history and the neighborhood he grew up in. The family moved here from the Bronx, in 1965.

Oh, that page of annotations:

What did Quinn think of “Nighttime Is My Time” after all this time?

“It was very good,” he told Pascack Press. “Clark is top-notch, you know, one of the most famous

mystery writers. I usually donʼt read fiction, but I thought it was very interesting — and a very surprising ending.”

We wonʼt spoil it. Check out your own copy.

Joy, Music, and Broadway Magic Return Dec. 14

Hillsdale’s Christmas Concert at St. John’s Stars Tenors Laird Mackintosh, Ciarán Sheehan

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The holiday spirit is already stirring in Hillsdale, where anticipation is building for the return of A Very Broadway Christmas Concert From joyful phone calls to eager inquiries, many have been reaching out to Saint John t he Baptist Church with one hopeful question: Will the concert be back this year?” Now that the date is set and the performers announced, the buzz has turned to anticipation—and urgency: “How can we purchase our tickets before they sell out, as this past year?”

Set for Sunday, Dec. 14 at 4 p.m., all has been planned with desire of making it easier for all to travel, gather, celebrate and enjoy an amazing artistic and spiritual experience. And excitement is already spreading across Northern New Jersey and New Yorkʼs southern counties.

“Itʼs beautiful to witness how God-given gifts and talents can stir joy, beauty, and a deep sense of community. Our Broadway artists and friends will not only entertain and enrich us through

their spectacular artistic talents, but in Laird Mackintosh we will welcome into our community a tenor who will forever hold the unique title of ʻthe very last Phan-

tom of the

said

‘The Nutcracker,’ with full orchestra

BALLET ARTS and the Adelphi Orchestra bring their fully live-orchestra production of “The Nutcracker” to River Dell High School in Oradell on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. The annual partnership remains the only “Nutcracker” in Bergen County performed with a full orchestra.

This yearʼs staging arrives amid several milestones: Ballet Arts approaches its 50th anniversary; the

Ballet Arts, Adelphi Orchestra team up to deliver a classic Dec. 13 & 14

Radio City Rockettes celebrate their 100th; American Ballet Theatre marks 85 years; and the Adelphi Orchestra reaches its 70th season. Ballet Arts was founded by former ABT soloist Diana Turner Hauser, whose legacy continues through Co-Directors Jane Silane and Marilyn Westlake-Nichols—

both former Rockettes.

Under the baton of Principal Conductor Kyunghun Kim, the Adelphi Orchestra performs Tchaikovskyʼs score. “Ballet Arts and the Adelphi Orchestra make a

great combination, and Iʼm so pleased to be a part of it,” Maestro Kim said.

More than 150 hand-crafted costumes, designed by Gisele Ferrari-Wong and fitted by Haruka Fujii, bring the production to life. Guest artist Hoyeon Kim of ABTʼs Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

School appears as the Nutcracker Prince. A two-time Youth America Grand Prix medalist, Kim has danced excerpts from Swan Lake and Coppélia.

Silane and Westlake-Nichols say the live orchestra elevates the

HOLIDAY DINING & GIFT GUIDE 2025 HOLIDAY DINING & GIFT GUIDE 2025

Concert.

FROM PAGE 16

the Baptist when asked about the ongoing preparations for the

From the day it opened on New York Cityʼs Broadway in January of 1988, The Phantom of the Opera played in the Majestic Theatre 13,981 performances to audiences of over 20 million. The

very last of these spectacular Broadway productions took place on Sunday, April 16, 2023, and the very last artist who played the r ole of Phantom during that 13,981st performance was Laird Mackintosh.

Returning to lead the cast is acclaimed tenor Ciarán Sheehan, whose Broadway credits include over 1,000 performances as The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, as well as roles in Les Misérables, Camelot, and Finianʼs Rainbow A Dublin native, Sheehan brings both vocal brilliance and heartfelt warmth to the

stage.

C iar á n and Laird will be joined by talented soprano Rachel Gold, acclaimed pianist a nd music director Michael Kaish, and celebrated violinist and Irish fiddler Heather Bixler. Their collective artistry promises an unforgettable afternoon of music, memories, and Christmas cheer.

“Weʼre just as excited as the audience,” said Sheehan. “There is something truly special about this concert — it lifts us as artists and as people. The joy we feel in giving is matched only by the joy

we see in the audience.” Tickets are available online at christmasconcert.stjohnhillsdale.org, through a secure and user-friendly platform that confirms purchases instantly. For t hose who prefer to pay by check or cash, tickets can be purchased in person at the Rectory Office of Saint John the Baptist Church, 69 Valley St., Hillsdale, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For artist bios, concert updates, and more, visit the official website.

Happy

Happy

FROM PAGE 4

ty Band Jazz Ensemble in the Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave.

Downtown businesses will offer shopping and dining specials throughout the day. From 5

to 8 p.m., the Knights of Columbus will collect new, unwrapped toys at Tons of Toys for its Westwood Cares holiday drive.

Parade poster and route maps are available at facebook.com/westwoodnjrec or westwoodnj.gov/recreation.

T he annual parade dates back to the 1960s, when Santa Claus first arrived atop the West-

wood Fire Department ladder truck—an appearance that has since become a cherished local tradition. The event is organized by the Borough of Westwood and its Recreation, Police, Public Works, and Fire departments, along with community volunteers. Call (201) 664-7882 or follow @westwoodnjrec on Facebook and Instagram.

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at Pascack Press. We’re grateful to our readers, our advertisers, and the Pascack Valley communities we serve.

FRIDAY 28TH - SUNDAY 30TH ONLY

Holiday Parties? Plan to Meet at Giulio’s Restaurant

“At Giulioʼs, we only use the freshest ingredients in our homemade dishes. Featuring contempo-

Yes, please: Try theyellowfin tuna at Giulio’s Restaurant. Try everything!

Nutcracker

FROM PAGE 17 dancersʼexperience. “Thereʼs something truly magical about students dancing with a live orchestra,” they said. “It allows them to feel the energy of each note in real time.”

Four graduating seniors take their final Nutcracker bow: Kathleen Hahn of Oradell (Immaculate Heart Academy) as Sugar Plum Fairy, and River Dell High School students Tessa Klein (Spanish Chocolate), Madeleine Krieger (Arabian Coffee), and Atiya Jackson (Trepak).

Appetizers as works of art.

rary Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, we strive to please every palate.”

Owner Beni Qosja opened Giulioʼs Restaurant in 2022.

Clara and Franz will be shared by Acacia Fang, Felicity Cho, Iris Armstrong, and Zoe Canlas.

Beloved community performers round out the cast: Dr. Frederick F Fakharzadeh returns as Drosselmeyer; Pointe Magazine

Editor-in-Chief Amy Brandt appears as Mother Stahlbaum; and Trixie Iurato of New City, N.Y., dances Dew Drop.

The Wilsher family of Closter again takes the stage—Fraser as Father Stahlbaum and Mother Ginger, with daughters Erica and Claudia appearing in party scenes and Act II. The Lomonico family of Park Ridge also returns: Keith as a Party Parent, daughter Viola as Snowflake and Flower, Julia Chang

Housed in a beautiful, romantic, Queen Anne Victorian in Historic Tappan, N.Y., just minutes from Bergen County, Giulioʼs Restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine. Built in 1880 by the Smith

family, the rooms are adorned with carved woodwork and large beveled glass windows that make you feel like you stepped into

as production photographer, and young Elsie assisting backstage.

The Adelphi Orchestra, now in its 70th season, continues its community-focused mission through concerts and educational outreach, including its 21-year-old Young Artist Competition.

“This yearʼs Nutcracker is especially meaningful,” Silane said. “Weʼre celebrating our shared legacies and the partnerships that make the arts thrive in our community.”

The Nutcracker will be presented at River Dell High School, 55 Pyle Street, Oradell, on Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. Tickets: www.BalletArtsNJ.com. Information: 201-970-7690.

At Giulio’s Restaurant, custom menus are available for your private party.

another era. The warm and inviting fireplaces in the Main Dining Room and Oak Room beckon guests to enjoy a fine glass of wine and a delicious meal.

Beni brings more than 25 years of culinary experience to Giulioʼs Restaurant. Formerly of Vicolo of Old Tappan, Il Vicolo of Livingston and current owner of Limoncello in Waldwick, the years of world class experience and passion for culinary creations is evident in each and every of his signature dishes.

Giulioʼs Restaurant creates contemporary dishes with only the finest and freshest ingredients. Visit for a drink in the full-service bar, a

casual meal by the fireplace, or to celebrate your life's most memorable events in one of the private dining rooms.

Formerly Giulioʼs of Tappan, the new Giulioʼs Restaurant offers guests a fresh experience with an updated décor and menu in a warm, romantic setting.

When you go… Giulioʼs Restaurant 154 Washington Street Tappan, N.Y. 845-359-3657

See website for hours: www.giuliosrestaurant.com giuliosrestaurant@gmail.com

Giulio’s Restaurant

Post 162 invites letters to deployed troops

American Legion General Leonard E. Wood Post 162 is calling on residents to help ensure that soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guard members serving overseas know their sacrifices are appreciated.

Each year, Post 162 sends thousands of letters and qualityof-life care-package items to deployed U.S. troops. Of everything included in these packages, Legion members say the most treasured items are the personal letters of appreciation.

The post aims to include several letters and colorful drawings in every care package. Volunteers note that writing even a brief note is a simple, meaningful way for Americans to show support for

service members far from home.

“It only takes five minutes of your day,” the announcement reads, “but will bring lasting joy to our troops.”

Adults and children alike are encouraged to participate. Suggested topics include family, hobbies, sports, school, weather, music, or pets. Writers are asked to avoid political commentary and excessive religious content— though expressing prayers and good wishes is welcomed. Please write the service memberʼs name clearly on the outside of the envelope to help Post 162 sort letters for delivery.

Adults may include their contact information so recipients can reply; children should use first

names only.

The servicemembers are: Adair, Sean Adoff, Noah Affrunti, Michael Badger, J. Christopher Beattie, Olivia Burns, Ethan Cascio, Nick Chen, Jeffrey Cho, Yushin Choi, Nicole Costello, James Cuffe, Kevin Cuffe, Sean DeChiara, James Dowdie, Aaron Falkoff, Alex Frey, Cooper Jabouin, Jean Gallagher, Will

Garabedian, David Gunther, James Jacobs, Mitchell Jones, Dylan Keohane, Sean Killian, Michael Kohan, Ray Lee, Edward Liaros, Alex Malocha, Jessica Martino, Michael Martucci, Victoria McNiff, Tara Mckenna, Brian Needleman, Ben Novakowski, Matt Novakowski, Ryan Paskas, Steve Rickert, Chase Rogich, Zach

Romero, Luis Safari, Areg Saks, Peter Sariol, Aaron Saul, Robert Svorec, Destiny Svorec, Lainey Thames, Justin Tocci, Sean Uhl, Thomas Velthaus, Michael Vetterlien, Chris Vicchio, Nicolas Letters may be dropped off at Hillsdale Borough Hall, Hillsdale Library, the Post Office, or directly at Post 162, located at 98 Legion Place.

The final day for letter pickup is Dec. 1.

Rising to Meet Gluten-Free-Diet Awareness Month

BOOSTYOUR BRAIN

By Dr. Eric Kaplan,

Advertisement

NO VEMB ER is GlutenF ree Diet

A wareness Month, which means millions o f Americans are staring susp iciously at t heir morning bagel, wondering if itʼs secretl y plotting against them. Gluten has become a modern villain—somewhere

between sugar and that coworker who microwaves fish in the office kitchen. But in all seriousness, gluten can be a real problem for m any people, especially those dealing with autoimmune conditions.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It gives bread its soft elasticity and makes pizza crust wonderfully chewy. Unfortunately, the gluten found in the United States today is not necessarily the same gluten your grandparents ate. Over the years, through cross-breeding and aggressive agricultural practices,

American wheat has changed— and it is often exposed to pesticides and herbicides, particularly glyphosate. Europe, by contrast, has stricter regulations on certain agricultural chemicals, which is why so many people say they canʼt eat bread in America but feel fine eating pasta on vacation in Italy.

For people with celiac disease, gluten is not just irritating—itʼs dangerous. Celiac is an autoimmune condition, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the bodyʼs own tissues. In this case, the immune system

DR. ERIC KAPLAN, DC

attacks the small intestine every time gluten is consumed, leading to inflammation, nutrient defic iencies, and long-term health complications. Other autoimmune diseases include Hashimotoʼs thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, Crohnʼs disease, and ulcerative colitis. And hereʼs the key point: when you have any autoimmune condition, gluten can exacerbate inflammation and worsen s ymptoms—even if you donʼt have celiac disease.

If you truly want the best results on an autoimmune healing diet, itʼs not enough to eliminate gluten alone. Many people with autoimmune issues also react to dairy, corn, soy, coffee, and alcohol. Think of it like this—if gluten is the spark, these other foods are the gasoline. Eliminating them can significantly reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and help calm the immune system. I promise this doesnʼt mean your life is over; it just means your taste buds may need to mature a bit.

Gluten-free doesnʼt always mean healthy. The gluten-free aisle at the supermarket can be a nutritional minefield. Many gluten-free breads, cookies, and snacks are loaded with sugar, corn, seed oils, and processed starches like tapioca and potato flour. They may be gluten-free, but theyʼre often nutrient-free too. In other words, a gluten-free cupcake is still a cupcake. Your pancreas doesnʼt care about its moral

superiority.

Your brain is directly affected by what you eat. In my practice, I see patients every day dealing with brain fog, memory issues, anxiety, depression, and fatigue—symptoms that often improve dramatically with dietary changes.

I ʼm offering a $21 qEEG brain map at my Emerson office this month so you can see exactly how your brain is functioning and what might be affecting it.

Call or text me at 201-2612150, visit www.kaplandc.com, or email info@kaplanbrainandbody.com to schedule your qEEG or ask questions.

Tune into my radio show, “Boost Your Brain Power with Dr. Eric Kaplan”—every Saturday from 8–9 a.m. on AM 970 and from 2–3 p.m. on WOR 710 AM and other platforms. We dive into topics like nutrition, brain health, lifestyle, and how to protect your mind in a world full of environmental stressors—including pesticides, GMOs, artificial ingredients, and yes, glutenpacked processed foods.

This month, whether youʼre gluten-free, gluten-curious, or just love bread a little too much, remember: knowledge is power. And when it comes to your brain and immune system, the food you choose today becomes the health you experience tomorrow.

Kaplan Brain and Body 212-620-8121 www.kaplandc.com

WESTWOOD

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

Elks rally, deliver $4,000 in food to local pantries

Westwood Elks Lodge 1562 recently completed a major community service project, donating $4,000 in nonperishable goods to two local food pantries:Hillsdale Helping Hand and St. Andrewʼs Food Bank, Westwood.

The effort began with outreach to the pantries to understand

their most pressing needs. Once identified, the Elks secured grant funding from the Elks National Foundation and went to work.

Over the course of seven shopping trips, volunteers purchased specific items requested by

HILLSDALE

Trucking along: Members of the Westwood Elks recently completed a major community service project, donating $4,000 worth of nonperishable goods to two local food pantries. Submitted photos.

the pantries. All goods were stored at the lodge until delivery day, when a 15-member team gathered to sort and organize the donations.

Using two pickup trucks, the team delivered to the first pantry, returned to reload, and then delivered to the second pantry—all in one day.

“This project showed what we can accomplish when we work together,” said one volunteer. “It

Helping Hand sounds alarm on need

The Helping Hand Food Pantry, at Hillsdale United Methodist Church, 349 Hillsdale Ave., is asking for the communityʼs support as supplies run low heading into the holiday season.

Monetary donations and gift cards are always welcome and may be dropped off at the pantry. Items currently in high demand include sugar, flour, coffee, tea, apple juice, shelf-stable milk, baby food (stages 1 and 3), meat sauce, oil, ketchup, grape jelly, canned yams, canned pineapple, peaches and pears, egg noodles, boxed potatoes, ramen noodles, mayonnaise, mustard, whole tomatoes, tomato paste, black olives, mushrooms, cookies, crackers, and breakfast bars.

Non-food items needed include shampoo, conditioner, pump soap, deodorant, toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissues, and diapers (sizes 5–7). For more information or to make a contribution, visit hillsdalenj.govoffice3.com or contact the Helping Hand Food Pantry at Hillsdale United Methodist Church.

was rewarding to know we were making a real difference for families in need.”

The donation will help hundreds of individuals and families facing food insecurity, and the Elks plan to continue supporting local pantries in the future.

Westwood Elks Lodge 1562 is part of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, a national fraternal organization founded in 1868 and dedicated to charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. For generations, the Westwood lodge has supported the Pascack Valley through hands-on volunteer service, fundraising, youth engagement, and assistance to veterans and families in need.

The Elks operate nearly 2,000 lodges across the United States and contribute more than $80 million each year to communityminded programs, including scholarships, therapy services for children with special needs, drugawareness education, scouting, athletic activities, and support for

military veterans. Lodges also observe Flag Day each June 14, a tradition begun by the Elks in 1907 and later adopted nationally by Congress.

Membership in the Order is open to American citizens age 21 and older who believe in God, uphold good moral character, and are sponsored by a current member in good standing. Westwood Lodge 1562 is on Facebook.

—Staff report

When to claim your Social Security benefits

WHEN IT

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

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

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

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

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

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

Comparison:

Claiming sooner vs. later

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

full retirement benefit age of 67. His monthly benefit in todayʼs dollars is $2,106. If he had delayed receiving benefits until he was 70, heʼd receive $1,625 more a month, or $3,731. And he would make up for the eight-year delay in not taking any benefits in about 10 years. “Unlike personal assets that can be exhausted, Social Security is a vast resource provided by the U. S. government. As long as you are alive, you should continue to receive your Social Security benefits and with a cost-of-living adjustment throughout your retirement years.”

Make wellness a deciding factor

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

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

Do you have enough income?

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

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

Considerations for married couples

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

For example, if youʼre working part time or seasonally, your Social Security benefits may be dramatically lower if your partner is working full-time. It still may be wise for both of you to wait, if possible.

“Not only does waiting to claim increase the size of the benefit that the [higher earning] individual personally receives, but it also increases the size of whatʼs known as the survivorʼs benefit that the [lower earning] spouse could draw

if the other spouse passes away,” Hohenberger says.

Keep in mind that the current average life expectancy of a 65-year-old man is about 84 years, while a woman that age can expect to live until around age 87, according to the Social Security Administration.

What about taxes?

When it comes to when to claim Social Security benefits, Hohenberger advises not to focus primarily on the tax ramifications.

“For the vast majority of people, their marginal tax rate in retirement will likely be fairly constant,” Hohenberger says. “If retirees were to take their Social Security benefit at 62, we typically see that their marginal tax rate is the same or approximately the same as it would be if they claimed the benefit at age 70. We want [them] to focus instead on working to help maximize the net cash flow over the remainder of their lifetime.”

Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management (WIM) offers financial products and services through affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company.

Wells Fargo & Company and its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. This communication cannot be relied upon to avoid tax penalties. Please consult your tax and legal advisors to determine how this information may apply to your own situation. Whether any planned tax result is realized by you depends on the specific facts of your own situation at the time your tax return is filed. This article was written byWells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director –Investments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.

Investment and Insurance Products are:

• Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency

• Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate

• Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2022 – 2025 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

Rec cheers Happ and Hoffman

To the editor:

THE PARK RIDGE Recreation and Cultural Committee is delighted to announce and extend heartfelt congratulations to Rose-

mary Happ, who was recently honored with the 2025 Community Service Award for Recreation.

This prestigious accolade was personally presented by Mayor Keith Misciagna, underscoring the meaningful impact of her contributions to our community.

That’steamspirit

HILLSDALE

Faculty and staff at Ann Blanche Smith School and Meadowbrook School in Hillsdale showed their team spirit and focus on “working together” this Halloween by dressing as baseball players and construction workers. The creative display reflected the core values of Hillsdale Public Schools: work hard, have fun, and be kind.

—Photos: Meadowbrook: Hillsdale Public Schools; Smith School: Krystal Szabo

ication, creative spirit, and consistently positive demeanor have been indispensable to our committee. For many years, she has demonstrated exceptional commitment through her active participation in all committee meetings and her willingness to go above a nd beyond whenever needed. Her steady support and enthusiasm have helped advance import ant recreation initiatives and ensure the success of our community events and programs. We are truly grateful for all she brings to our committee.

We also extend our warmest congratulations to Councilman Greg Hoffman, our dedicated liaison, who was recognized with a

Community Service Award by the Park Ridge Rotary. This c ommendation highlights his valuable service and his strong commitment to the Park Ridge community.

Rosemary Happ and Councilman Hoffman exemplify outstanding leadership and dedicat ion. Their collective efforts continue to strengthen the work of the Park Ridge Recreation a nd Cultural Committee and foster a vibrant and welcoming community for all residents.

Liz Falkenstern, director, Park Ridge Recreation and Cultural Committee

Rosemaryʼs unwavering ded-

FROM PAGE 1 was invalid under the Faulkner Act due to a lack of quorum. That meeting drew nearly a dozen nearby residents who spoke out against the lease. A public hearing and second vote are set for Dec. 2.

(See “Neighbors oppose $104K Bethany DPW lease; Council sets re-do vote for Nov. 17,” by Michael Olohan, Nov. 16, 2025, thepressgroup.net.)

After almost two hours of public comment Nov. 17, the council introduced Ordinance 25-25 by a 3–1 vote, with Councilors Michael Ullman, Tom Sears and Daisy Velez in favor and Council President Michael DeSena, one of two recent challengers for the mayorʼs gavel, against. Council Vice President Steve Cascio was absent.

Mayor Peter Calamari said he has again asked church officials whether DPW vehicles may enter and exit via the Bethany Community Center driveway on Pascack Road. Previously, officials said church representatives told them the Pascack Road access was nonnegotiable.

Residents urged the mayor to

press the issue, citing the $5,800 monthly lease cost, nearly $60,000 in site improvements already made

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at Bethany, and the townshipʼs recent lease of church space for a relocated polling place.

Before a signed lease was obtained — a major point of contention — the township authorized construction of a new driveway, a security gate, fencing, and black privacy screening for the DPW lot for a total of $57,700.

Bethany Community Center, 605 Pascack Road, is a wellness and recreation hub offering fitness facilities, classes, sports, and community programs for all ages. It partners with local groups to provide activities ranging from swimming and martial arts to music and senior programs, and also serves as a worship site for Bethany Church.

Bethany Community Center, 605 Pascack Road, is a wellness and recreation hub offering fitness facilities, classes, sports, and community programs for all ages. It partners with local groups to provide activities ranging from swimming and martial arts to music and senior programs, and also serves as

a worship site for Bethany Church. Several residents questioned how work could begin without a signed agreement. Township Attorney Siobhan Spillane Bailey said she would need to confer with Administrator Mark DiCarlo, who was absent Nov. 17, and would address the issue at the Dec. 2 public hearing. DeSena noted some officials, including DiCarlo and Clerk Sue Witkowski, were attending the League of Municipalities conference.

Resident Bob Stickel questioned the legality and oversight of making improvements at Bethany without a signed lease. “Why would you make improvements without a signed lease? Why would that be allowed,” he asked. He also pressed for clarity on what happens if the DPW loses access to the current Our Lady of Good Counsel storage area in the future.

Stickel repeated his concerns: “So you think what youʼve done was legal to make improvements on a property we donʼt own?” Stickel

asked Township Attorney Siobhan Spillane Bailey. “Makes no sense to me,” he said.

Woodfield Road concerns dominate comments

Most residents urged officials to require DPW trucks to use Pascack Road rather than Woodfield Road, citing pedestrian and child safety in the neighborhood. Others cited possible pollution impacts on Musquapsink Brook, a Category One waterway, and questioned the councilʼs transparency and communication on the lease.

Much council discussion occurred in closed session prior to Oct. 20, when the original lease was introduced. Pascack Press first reported the arrangement Oct. 3 after calls from residents who received certified letters sent by DiCarlo to 37 households near Bethany.

Press inquiries often went unanswered or received brief replies. Lease costs and duration

OBITUARIES

William Lee ‘Lee’ HUMPHREY

William Lee Humphrey, “Lee,” 61, of Baltimore, Md., formerly of Park Ridge, passed away peacefully Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Lee is survived by his wife, Patricia “Tish” (née Duffy); his son, William; and grandchildren Victoria and Anthony. He is also survived by brothers Ronald (Yvette) and Keith (Melissa), as well as many nieces and nephews he loved dearly and their now-growing families.

Lee was predeceased by his parents, Ronald (2024) and Victoria (2013), and by his son, Duffy (1995).

A 1983 graduate of Park Ridge High School, Lee spent the next 25 years working as a landscaper and carpenter.

Lee and Tish lived a life full of adventure and new beginnings. They lived in the Dallas, Texas, area; the Denver, Colo., area; and, most recently, Baltimore, Md. Lee was very charitable and resilient. With each new opportunity came the chance to connect with new people and enjoy the adventure of new places.

He loved going to woodworking and train shows to connect with other enthusiasts. He loved his grandchildren. He loved his wife. He loved the Lord. His greatest accomplishment was being Willʼs dad — he loved him so much.

Joshua 1:9: Be strong and be of good courage; do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

After years of health issues, we remember 1 Corinthians 13:4 — “Love suffers long and is kind” — and v. 13:8: “Love never fails.”

Lee was the most loyal type of friend. He would call on a whim just to check in. He would reminisce often about his upbringing and all the fun times in Park Ridge, particularly

He truly cared for the people who made impressions in his life. Lee was a very special man, and we will miss him deeply.

Lee will be interred in Westwood Cemetery. There will be no formal funeral or wake. A late luncheon after the interment is to be determined. If you would like to attend the luncheon, please email tishhumphrey@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Leeʼs name to St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital are greatly appreciated..

Hugh J. RODGERS JR.

bowled with friends well into his later years.

If you knew Hugh J., you knew how much he loved sports. He never missed a game when his kids were playing and followed his son Zekeʼs high school and college football careers with devotion. Even after his children grew up, he continued to cheer on his grandchildren and could often be found at local high school games, enjoying the energy and camaraderie of the crowd.

son and Hillsdale), passed away on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Salisbury, Md.

Born on May 9, 1952, in Houston, Texas, he was the son of the late Francis Meisten and Wanda (Kwiatkowski) Meisten.

ness in Westwood, where they worked side by side for 20 years.

Joan, affectionately known as “Joanie” by her husband, Pete, was often described as an angel on earth. She was a sweet, kind and compassionate soul — an intelligent and graceful woman ahead of her time. Her wisdom, warmth and sincere compliments touched everyone she met.

In loving memory of a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. Hugh J. Rodgers Jr., 83, of the Township of W ashington, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025.

Born and raised in Scranton, Pa., Hugh J. was the son of the late Hugh J. and Alice (Fitzsimmons) Rodgers. He attended St. Paulʼs School and Scranton Preparatory School, and graduated from the University of Scranton in 1965 with a bachelorʼs degree in psychology.

After college, Hugh J. completed Officer Candidate School in Rhode Island and proudly served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Bexar during the Vietnam War He continued his service in the Naval Reserve until 1968.

In 1969, Hugh J. began what became a 35-year career with Ryder Truck Rental, starting in Reading, Pa., and later managing operations across New Jersey and New York. He retired as district manager of Ryder Systems, Carlstadt, N.J., in 2004.

Hugh had a deep love for his community When Washington Township launched its local TV channel, WCTV, he hosted his own show for a time. He was also a proud member of the Hobbyists of Ridgewood, where he played tennis and

He and his beloved wife, Meg OʼBrien Rodgers — who passed away in 2018 — shared a love of travel and adventure. Together they explored the world, visiting their daughterʼs family abroad and traveling throughout the U.K., Europe, Australia, New Zealand, East Asia and South America. Hugh also loved cooking for family and friends — especially his homemade pizza, chili and minestrone soup, which became family favorites.

Hugh leaves behind his daughter, Maggie White; his son-in-law, John White; and their children, William and Grace; and his son, Zeke Rodgers, with April McLaughlin, and their children, Maloria, CorleyAnn and Mack. He is also survived by his sister, Tina Lesher; his brother, Michael Rodgers; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Meg; and his sister, Nancy Kay Holmes.

The family received guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Friday, Nov 14. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Our Lady of Good Counsel Roman Catholic Church, 668 Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington, on Saturday, Nov. 15.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in honor of Hughʼs military service..

Douglas George MEISTEN

Douglas George Meisten, 73, of Ocean City, Md. (formerly of Emer-

Douglas spent the majority of his career running the family business, Frank Meisten and Son Painting. Doug is remembered for loving his wife, daughters, sons-in-law and his grandchildren. He enjoyed every time his family was all together in Ocean City. He was a good friend to many, enjoyed socializing and loved a good conversation. Throughout his life he was an active member of the community and coached his children in recreational sports. He was a member of the Elks and, in his younger years, was a star athlete.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Kathleen Meisten; his two daughters, Michelle Thompson (Brian) of River Vale, and Kerry Vogel (Timothy) of Park Ridge; his sister, Janis Lauten of Florida; his sister-inlaw, Maureen McElwain (Mac, deceased) of Virginia; his brother-inlaw, Kevin McBride (Rita) of Arizona; his seven nieces and nephews, Dawn, Bryan, Matthew, Savannah, Peter, Jeffrey and Lisa; his four grandchildren, Shea, Colin, Brynn and Annie; as well as many beloved cousins and friends from New Jersey and Maryland.

Cremation followed. A funeral Mass was held on Friday, Nov. 14 at the Church of the Assumption, Emerson.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ocean City Fire Department would be appreciated in Dougʼs memory for their service and dedication to his care. Arrangements are in the care of the Burbage Funeral Home.

Joan Long OLSON

Joan Long Olson, 93, of Park Ridge, formerly of Montvale, passed away peacefully on Nov 8, 2025.

Joan was a devoted mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her beloved children: Thomas Long (Margaret), Kathleen Celini (Mike), Deb Sasaki (Randy), Suzanne Loin (Walter), Meryl Olson James, Peter Olson (June) and Scott Olson (Carolyn). She also leaves behind her cherished sister, Helen DiSalvo of Westwood; 15 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her two loving husbands, Walter Long and Peter Olson, both of whom she adored deeply Together with her sister Helen, Joan co-founded an electrolysis busi-

Joan now rests in the arms of Jesus, reunited with her loved ones in eternal peace.

Family and friends were invited to gather at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Friday, Nov. 14. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church in Park Ridge on Saturday, Nov. 15, followed by interment at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah.

In honor of Joanʼs memory, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society via cancer.org/dignitymemorial; or St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital via stjude.org/donate. Arrangements are under the direction of Becker Funeral Home..

Joan M. Sullivan KENNEY

Joan M. Kenney (née Sullivan), 90, of the Township of Washington, passed away peacefully on Nov. 12, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Joan will be remembered for being kind to everyone she met and for keeping a pristine home.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Kathy Kenney and Eileen Sirois, and son-in-law, Marcel Sirois. She was the proud and loving grandmother of Lindsey, John and Dan Sirois. She is also survived by her brothers, Timothy Sullivan (Maureen) and Daniel Sullivan (Kathi), and nephews Timothy and Michael Rohan. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Jack, of 64 years, and her sister, Mary Rohan.

Joan was born in New York City and graduated from Cathedral High School, New York. She worked for New York and New Jersey Bell Telephone before starting a family, worked at the Township of Washington Health Department while raising her family and held various other bookkeeping jobs.

Joan resided in the Township of Washington for 63 years and was a faithful member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed traveling with her husband and spending time with her family and friends.

The family received relatives and friends at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, on Monday, Nov. 17. A Mass celebrating her life and faith was held at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 668 Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington, on Monday, Nov 17, followed by interment at Maryrest Cemetery, Mahwah.. Memorial contributions may be made to the Township of Washington Public Library. Arrangements are under the direction of Becker Funeral Home.

Benefit concert for Meals on Wheels, food pantry

Free “Bergen Cares” Concert to Benefit Meals on Wheels

North Jersey and Tri Boro Food Pantry

Join in an inspiring evening of music and community at the “Bergen Cares” Benefit Concert, Sunday, Nov. 23 at 4 p.m. at the Park Ridge High School Theater, at 2 Park Ave.

This free concert aims to raise awareness and support for

Meals on Wheels North Jersey and the Tri-Boro Food Pantry, two vital organizations working t o combat food insecurity in North Bergen County. Attendees are encouraged to make monetary donations at the door or in advance at mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org. Sponsorships are also available through the site.

The evening will feature a dynamic lineup of performers

including:

• The Chapin Sisters

•Joe DʼUrso with Seth Saltzman

•Rennie & Bob Playing Simon & Garfunkel

•Allie Kenny

•Tailgate Time Machine

• The Quinn Sisters

•And surprise acts!

Janelle Larghi, executive d irector of Meals on Wheels

North Jersey and pantry coordinator for the Tri Boro Food Pantry, tells Pascack Press, “This is a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to come together, enjoy live

music, and support a meaningful cause.”

She adds, “Iʼm hoping that we can all unite together to fight hunger and uplift our community—because Bergen Cares ”

The Hillsdale Free Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave., has announced the following events for November:

•Monday, Nov. 24 — 7 p.m. Teen Trivia Night. Registration required.

•Saturday, Nov. 29 — 11 a.m. Yoga Basics: Mind and M ovement. Registration required.

Ongoing programs:

Chair Yoga is held Thursdays at 11 a.m., and Tai Chi on the Patio meets Mondays at 11 a.m. Both require registration.

For information or to register, visit hfpl.org or email michele.kilmurray@hfpl.org.

Corcoran Infinity, Jersey Cares coat drive

For the fifth consecutive year, agents from Corcoran Infinity PropertiesʼRiver Vale office are teaming up with Jersey Cares for its Annual Coat Drive, helping collect and distribute winter coats to individuals and families in need.

The program provides a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community by donating new and gently used coats for men, women, children, and infants.

Neighbors, friends, and clients are invited to join in this effort to help ensure that no one goes cold this winter. “A simple coat or jacket from your closet can truly change someoneʼs life,” organizers said.

Donations of coats (only,

please) may be delivered in plastic bags to the Corcoran Infinity Properties office, 213 Rivervale Road, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Collection runs through Jan. 6, 2026. For more information, contact sales associate Bonnie Borghi at (201) 666-0777.

NJ

S S FROM PAGE 30

were not disclosed until the leaseʼs Oct. 20 introduction, approved 5–0.

Efforts to reach Bethany Church officials for comment were not immediately successful.

Under the lease, the township must restore the site to its original condition when the term ends — removing the newly paved driveway, gates, fencing and screening — though Bethany could choose to retain some fencing, officials said.

Push for Pascack Road access

Several residents suggested calling church officials directly to request Pascack Road access, noting the leaseʼs high cost and temporary nature. One resident questioned why Bethany would not

allow Pascack Road access, noting that DPW vehicles generally leave at 7 a.m. and return around 3 p.m.

Officials said it would be rare for DPW vehicles to enter or exit the site during the workday, except during weather emergencies.

DPW must relocate ahead of new facility construction

In early September, officials awarded a $4.9 million contract to Premier Building & Construction Management of Midland Park for a new three-bay DPW facility. The contractor hopes to begin work in December, requiring DPW trucks and equipment to be relocated offsite during construction.

Residents suggested alternate locations, including the townshipowned former swim club and 450 Pascack Road. However, both properties were purchased with County Open Space funds and cannot be

used to store DPW vehicles.

Another resident suggested acquiring the Valley National Bank property via eminent domain. Calamari said he had reached out to bank officials previously but they did not contact the township before listing the property. DeSena said he would not support eminent domain and questioned the total cost of acquiring and converting the site.

Officials previously raised eminent domain with owners of the former Charlie Brownʼs and 450 Pascack Road, though it was never exercised.

Environmental and quality-of-life concerns

The Township of Washington has already installed a driveway and executed other improvements at Bethany Community Center in anticipation of a lease to temporarily accommodate DPW vehicles and

Township of Washington public works vehicles and equipment housed at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church on Ridgewood Road in 2021. John Snyder/file

other equipment. Kevin Szabo photo.

The Township of Washington has already installed a driveway and executed other improvements at Bethany Community Center in anticipation of a lease to temporarily accommodate DPW vehicles and other equipment. Kevin Szabo photo.

Resident Larry Sloan of Woodfield Road questioned whether DPW activities would attract vermin and asked about site lighting, runoff toward the brook, and odors.

He also asked for clarification on the “leaf transfer and other relat-

ed activities” previously mentioned.

Calamari said no leaves would be stored on site and described “related activities” as minor tasks such as transferring leaves between trucks. He said the townshipʼs pest control contractor would address potential vermin issues and that pumpkins and seasonal vegetation can attract rodents.

Calamari added that if the new DPW facility is completed sooner than the expected 12- to 18-month timeline, trucks and equipment would be moved off the Bethany site early.

EMERSON BOROUGH

seeks one (1) part-time Police Records Clerk to perform clerical, data entry and retrieval, and record-keeping tasks for the

Department. Must be highly self-motivated, with excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills; able to multitask efficiently and maintain confidentiality. PTschedule: Mon–Fri, 2 p.m.–7:30 p.m. Apply by Dec. 3, 2025, via PoliceApp. Visit emersonnj.org/jobs for the link to apply