PASCACKPRESS 3.2.26

couple enjoys their 34th anniversary dinner with friends where they had first date.

SUPREME COURT DENIES URGENT BID TO STAYNEW MANDATES

In campaign vs. state law on affordables, Ghassali vows work for towns not done

BY MICHAEL OLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

U.S. Supreme Court Justice

Samuel Alito on Tuesday, Feb. 24, denied an emergency request by Montvale-led Local Leaders for Responsible Planning coalition to pause a March 15 deadline for municipalities to submit housing plans and ordinances under New See COURT on page 7

GOODBYE TO AN OLD FRIEND GOODBYE TO AN OLD FRIEND

Generations later, a Pascack Valley staple says itʼs time to pack it in —March 7

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

Downtown Westwoodʼs longest-running business is preparing to close its doors.

Westwood Feed Co., a fixture on Broadway since the 19th century, will close March 7, ending an enviable 142-year run that traces back to the boroughʼs agricultural roots.

At 515 Broadway, the business dates to 1884, when—conveniently situated just off the

railroad tracks—it served the turkey farms and small agricultural operations that once helped define the Pascack Valley. Inside the shop, original feed and grain bins offer a rare physical link to that era.

Pegboard walls bear the marks of countless changes, while hand-lettered signs advertise seed, suet, and pet supplies.

“Itʼs kind of a dinosaur,” owner Donald DaCosta said in a telephone interview earlier this week from his home in Florida, where heʼs lived since around

RESILIENT KIDS

2015. “People donʼt have turkey farms anymore.”

DaCosta and his brother, Steve, purchased the business in

Continued on page 6

BOROUGH STANDSUP FIVE-YEAR FORESTRY PLAN

ʻCapture the Love (Again) Under the Kissing Treeʼphoto session connects on Valentine cheer

The Borough of Westwood has adopted a new five-year Community Forestry Management Plan aimed at expanding its street and park tree canopy, sharpening maintenance practices, and reducing public-safety and liability risks associated with aging or hazardous trees.

The 2026–2030 plan, prepared for the borough by consulting arborist Liz Stewart, a New Jersey Licensed Tree Expert, outlines policies and priorities for managing public shade trees and coordinating work among the Department of Public Works, borough administration, and the Shade Tree Advisory Committee. Westwood has maintained a formal community forestry plan since 1999, the document notes.

The plan was approved by the New Jersey Urban and Community Forestry Program and the New Jersey Community Forestry Council, with a certificate dated Jan. 26, See FORESTRY on page 28

The blizzard that pummeled our area from March 12 to 14, 1888, took nearly everyone by surprise. Why “nearly”? One man predicted the storm. Kristin Beuscher reports.

To the editor:

C

ONGRATULATIONS to John Piccirillo and Gabby Micucci on reaching the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career points.

These outstanding multisport varsity athletes represent the very best of Emerson — on the court, on the field and in the

classroom. Their achievements reflect countless hours of dedication, discipline and hard work. They continue to set the standard for what it means to be a true student-athlete and a

Emerson Cavalier. Small school. Big sports. Even bigger accomplishments. Joann Piccirillo Emerson

WESTWOOD

Knights fishfry March 8

The St. Thomas More Council 2188 hosts a Sunday Fish Fry on March 8 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 40 Crest St. Doors open at 2 p.m. The menu includes fried fish with tartar sauce, fries, cole slaw, cornbread, mac ʼnʼcheese, pickles, and dessert with coffee/tea/soda. A cash bar will be available. (Menu subject to change.) Tickets are $20 per person, $35 per couple (age 65+), and $15 for children 12 and under. The reservation deadline is Wednesday, March 4. Proceeds will support scholarships. For reservations, contact John at (201) 245-7555. Checks should be made payable to “Knights of Columbus 2188.”

‘Affordable’ zones introed; shared

BY MICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

The Township Council on Feb. 23 introduced revised affordable housing ordinances and approved shared-service agreements aimed at improving municipal internet service and helping keep local roads safe and clean.

Council introduced the affordable housing ordinances at a special meeting held via Zoom. The measures would increase required affordable housing setasides, allow inclusionary townhouse development in new districts, adjust residential density in specific zones, and revise the townshipʼs development fee provisions as part of its affordable housing regulations.

The ordinances were referred to the Planning Board for review and recommendation at its March 4 meeting (7 p.m.). A public hearing before the council is scheduled for March 9.

The special meeting was held ahead of a March 15 state deadline for municipalities to submit final affordable housing plans and implementing ordinances to the state Department of Community Affairs. The ordinance revisions stem from a mediation agreement between the township and Fair Share Housing Center approved Dec. 29, 2025. The session lasted 35 minutes.

The ordinances would implement the townshipʼs FourthRound affordable housing plan, which runs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2035.

Set-asides; new districts; density changes

Ordinance 26-01 would increase the mandatory affordable housing set-aside to 20% for developments of five or more units town-wide.

Ordinance 26-02 would amend local zoning by creating two new affordable housing districts—AH-1 and AH-2—to permit inclusionary townhouse development at specific sites. The ordinance also would revise the required affordable set-aside for Block 3405, Lot 1, consistent with

the townshipʼs new Housing Element and Fair Share Plan.

Block 3405, Lot 1 includes the Stone Mill Garden Center property on Ridgewood Road, owned by CRSMSS LLC.

Under Ordinance 26-02, the AH-1 Zone is intended to allow an inclusionary townhouse development of up to 72 total units, including a minimum of 15 affordable units, on Block 2329, Lot 2—the Valley National Bank site at 370 Pascack Road—owned by Ormon LLC.

The AH-2 Zone is intended to allow an inclusionary townhouse development of up to 32 total units, including a minimum of seven affordable units, on Block 2110, Lot 1 and Lots 6-11. The properties include a corner home at 659 Meisten Street and five lots along Pascack Road, where three vacant homes were demolished and two rental homes remain.

Ordinance 26-02 also would increase maximum permitted residential density in an affordable

housing overlay area for Block 3202.01, Lot 3 from 15 dwelling units per acre to 18. The site includes property at Bethany Church of the Assemblies of God, 605 Pascack Road.

The townshipʼs development fee provisions are incorporated into the revised Ordinance 26-01, a 51-page affordable housing amendment that also includes the increased set-aside requirements.

Shared services approved; budget meetings scheduled Council approved three resolutions authorizing shared-service agreements with Bergen County, Hawthorne and Emerson. Resolution 26-180 approved an agreement with Bergen County for secure, high-speed fiberoptic internet service. Resolution 26-182 approved an agreement with Hawthorne for the purchase of brine solution used to treat roads ahead of winter storm events. Resolution 26-163 authorized an agreement with

Emerson to provide street-sweeping services.

By consensus, council also scheduled five budget meetings over the next month: March 2 (7 p.m.); March 9 (conference session); March 16 (7 p.m.); March 23 (conference session); and March 30 (7 p.m.). Meetings also are broadcast on YouTube. Council also approved two resolutions setting 2026 compensation limits for the Zoning Board of Adjustment and Plan-

ning Board engineers.

Resolution 26-176 set a 2026 not-to-exceed amount of $ 140,000 for Engineer John Yakimik of Boswell Engineering and set hourly rates of $239 for a project manager and $314 for a survey field crew.

Resolution 26-177 set a 2026 not-to-exceed amount of $140,000 for engineer Paul Azzolina of Azzolina & Feury Engineering, with an hourly rate not to exceed $136.

Josh Engelking,Veolia senior director of operations, walks along the banks of the Oradell Reservoir recently. The area is usually underwater. Veolia photo.

Veolia warns as reservoir levels ‘far below norm’

Water resource for million-plus users ‘stressed’; call for continued conservation

HAWORTH

Donʼt let the recent snows 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, regional president of Veoliaʼs operations in New Jersey, in a statement shared with us on Feb 20. “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

See VEOLIA on page 6

Bckintime... Bckintime...

Left: A street scene captured in New York City during the Blizzard of 1888. Above: The aftermath of the Blizzard of 1888 in New York City. This is a view of Fulton Street looking toward the ferry after the horsedrawn snowplows came through. Many Pascack Valley commuters were stuck in the city with no way to send word home to their families. (Library of Congress photos)

When the Great Blizzard of 1888 walloped the Pascack Valley

O, YOUCALLTHIS a blizzard, eh?

Why, this is merely a dusting. Let me tell you about the big one. The ʼ88. Now that was something.”

This is what we imagine the young people of the early 20th century Pascack Valley heard from their elders every time they attempted to complain about the snow. Their parents and grandparents held the rights to grumbling about winter precipitation—they had lived through the Great Blizzard of 1888.

No local photographs of the blizzard are known to exist, as very few people here owned cameras in those days. However, the Pascack Historical Societyʼs archives abound with stories recorded by those who experienced the ordeal.

The blizzard that lasted from March 12 to 14, 1888, took nearly everyone by surprise.

I say nearly everyone, because Mr. Andrew Jackson DeVoe of Cherry Hill (now North Hackensack) had predicted it. DeVoe was a sawmill operator, a writer of almanacs, and an amateur weather prophet. When he had said there would be a blizzard, everyone laughed at him. As it was, his prediction was off by only 48 hours.

Before the first flake fell, the weather had been unseasonably mild. It was an early taste of spring, and on the sunny Sunday afternoon of March 11 the dusty roads were full of people out enjoying rides in their horse-drawn buggies.

Then came the rain—gentle at first, then stronger, and with a howling wind. Temperatures dropped rapidly during the night, with

SPECIAL TO PASCACK PRESS

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

a recorded 33 degrees in the New York City area plunging to 6 degrees in a matter of hours. People had been lulled to sleep by a rain shower, expecting that they would awaken to a dreary March day. By dawn, the world was eerily silent and buried in snow.

The blizzard pounded the East Coast for a day and a half, dumping nearly 2 feet of snow on this section of New Jersey What made the situation extreme, however, was not the total amount of snow that fell. This past weekʼs blizzard saw higher numbers in many parts of Bergen County.

The real danger in 1888 was immense snowdrifts caused by sustained high winds. Across the Tri-State area, snow piled up to the second story windows of houses. Rooms were dark during the day because snow was blocking the sunlight. All travel, whether by road or rail, was shut down for days. Some people were able to tunnel out of their homes, but many others were trapped inside. The highest snow drift, 52 feet, was recorded in Brooklyn.

As telephone service had not yet come to the Pascack Valley, there was no way to check on friends and family. You could only

See BLIZZARD on page 19

Top:When a commuter train could not proceed farther north than Hillsdale, the stranded were lodged at Hillsdale House. Above: Conductor Reeves Werkheiser ran the hotel with his wife, Martha. The Blakeney house on Rivervale Road in River Vale had snow to the second story. The family dug an 80-foot tunnel through the snow to reach the barn and tend to the livestock. The house stood about where Florence Road is today

Design-forward Westwood property is

BY JOHNSNYDER OF PASCACK PRESS

WESTWOOD

A historic designation first headed to the Westwood governing bodyʼs agenda this winter is now official: The Westwood Trust building at 1 Westwood Ave. — the prominent corner property now home to Rosangellyʼs Restaurant Cafe & BakeHouse downstairs — has been designated a local historic landmark, according to the Westwood Historic Preservation Commission.

The designation follows months of commission action on the property. In January, Pascack Press reported that the mayor and council were set to consider an ordinance establishing the site (Block 907, Lot 9) as a historic landmark after the commission adopted a resolution of intent to nominate the building under borough code and referenced a designation report documenting its history and architectural features.

The commission describes the structure as a four-story Art Moderne building with neo-Classical detailing, originally constructed as a bank with vaults and offices. Its location at the entrance to downtown, the commission noted, gives it a distinctive “gateway” presence in Westwoodʼs streetscape.

As a designated landmark, exterior alterations will now require review by the Westwood Historic Preservation Commis-

The Westwood Trust building at 1 Westwood Ave. — the prominent corner property now home to Rosangelly’s Restaurant Café

sion, including the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness, before permits can be granted for work affecting the buildingʼs appearance. Interior features are not regulated.

However, the commission said the current ownership recognized the buildingʼs significance and took care to rehabilitate and preserve historic interior elements, including flooring, wood

paneling, and coffered ceilings.

The commission called the project “an excellent example of adaptive reuse” and said it plans to share additional details about the siteʼs history, including historic photographs, in future posts.

Local architect William J. Martin said the buildingʼs importance lies not only in its architectural style, but in how it reflects both its era and the aspirations of

the community that built around it.

“The Westwood Trust building not only symbolizes the spirit of its time, but also serves as a reminder of the evolving hopes of the people who call Pascack Valley home,” Martin said. “Its preservation honors the boroughʼs architectural heritage and reinforces its role as a centerpiece in Westwoodʼs past and future.”

Martin also pointed to a lesser-known geometric feature that contributes to the buildingʼs striking appearance: the 10-degree shift in the alignment of Westwood Avenue at the intersection.

“The monumental quality of the building is partly due to that subtle shift,” Martin said. “The off-angled corners are not typical square intersections, and that

geometry creates an unexpected visual impact — both from the outside and within the building itself. Itʼs a quiet design moment that surprises and delights the observer.”

Martin, who has served for decades on local and county boards including the Westwood Zoning Board of Adjustment, Westwood Planning Board, Closter Historic Preservation Commission, and the Bergen County Historic Preservation Advisory Board, said the designation ensures that this defining feature of downtown will endure.

“Itʼs great to know that the building will now be officially preserved for future generations to enjoy,” he said.

Feed:

FROM PAGE 1

1976, continuing a long line of ownership that included Daniel Schlosberg and, before him, Mr. Mariner, whoʼd relocated the store to Broadway in the early 20th century. A new building was constructed in 1929, and the feed store has operated from that location ever since. Steve later let go of his interest, while Donald and his growing family invested and reinvested in the business over the decades.

Service above all

For much of its life, Westwood Feed Co. functioned as a service business as much as a retail store, shaped by DaCostaʼs willingness to fix, adapt, and figure things out for customers.

In addition to feed and pet supplies, DaCosta said the business once handled fireplace inserts, lawn and garden equipment, lawnmower and small-engine repair, fertilizer and grass seed sold by the bag, and a rotating mix of practical services that reflected how people actually lived in town at the time.

Before big-box stores swallowed much of the lawn and garden market, Westwood Feed Co. sold heavy equipment, sharpened blades, mixed seed on site, and relied on hands-on knowledge earned through years of landscaping and outdoor work tied to the business in its earlier days.

DaCosta told us the writing was on the wall most clearly during the pandemic, when customers turned to online ordering as a way of life. He said the finances were

such that the business wasnʼt worth passing down—or giving away. He also noted that his was one of the last downtown anchor businesses standing. He singled out Susan Weinrichʼs Westwood Pets Unlimited, at 15 Westwood Ave. until late last year; and Steve Naginskyʼs LN Grand 5 and 10

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Packing up at Westwood Feed Co. on Feb. 21, 2026 ahead of the store’s announced closing, March 7: Bibi DaCosta; Logan LeRose; Bibi’s husband, Anthony Mathews; and Beth Kasbarian and her husband, Greg. (Bibi and Beth also show off family photos, including of their dad, Donald DaCosta, and late store cat Bean.) Meanwhile, customers say goodbye — some tearfully — and stock up. The stor e has been a Pascack Valley fixture for generations. John Snyder photos.

FROM PAGE 1

Jerseyʼs fourth-round affordable housing requirements.

The coalition includes 29 paying towns statewide — $20,000 each. Nine municipalities signed the petition seeking to halt the March 15 deadline.

On Wednesday, Feb. 25, Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali, the coalitionʼs leader, said in a statement that the effort is “far from finished. … Our goal was never to fight affordable housing,” Ghassali said. “Our goal is to stand up against high density development that enriches developers, inflates market rate prices, and pushes even more families out of reach of the very communities they want to call home.”

“I am indebted to my fellow mayors and council members … and I know their residents see it,” he said.

Ghassali: ʻThis issue is not going to fade awayʼ

Ghassali also posted on Facebook around 4 p.m. Tuesday that Alito had denied the request for an emergency injunction. “We promised our residents that we would take this fight to the highest court in the land … Regrettably, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito denied our application for an emergency injunction earlier today,” he wrote.

Ghassali said the coalition would continue working “to ensure we continue the fight against a system that serves developers over residents.”

“Weʼll regroup shortly, and I can assure you this issue is not going to fade away,” he wrote. “My council colleagues and I will continue to push back against highdensity development being labeled as ʻaffordable housingʼ.”

The coalition had sought to pause the March 15 deadline to allow additional time to present its legal arguments in federal court.

Ghassali said Montvale had offered during fourth-round negotiations to purchase a building and

construct a 100% affordable housing development, but that the proposal was rejected by the Fair Share Housing Center and the courts.

Responding, Jag Davies, a spokesperson for the Cherry Hills nonprofit advocacy Fair Share Housing Center, a critic, said the organization supports fully affordable developments, but objected to what it described as Montvaleʼs proposal.

Fair Share Housing Center

Executive Director Adam Gordon said the issue with Montvaleʼs plan was that it would have given a developer the option to build a large data center instead of affordable housing.

“Montvaleʼs proposed plan makes affordable homes optional, which is a flagrant abuse of the process,” Gordon said. “We encourage 100% affordable projects when they are real and enforceable. … What we cannot support is a proposal that lets a developer choose to build a massive data center instead of affordable homes.”

The request to the U.S. Supreme Court followed multiple unsuccessful challenges in state and federal courts by the coalition seeking to halt implementation of the stateʼs fourth-round affordable housing obligations, enabled by amendments to the Fair Housing Act approved by the Legislature and Gov. Phil Murphy in March 2024.

Fair Share Housing Center: ʻEighth rejectionʼfor coalition

Joshua Bauers, Fair Share Housing Centerʼs director of exclusionary-zoning litigation, called Alitoʼs denial “the eighth rejection of these arguments by every level of both the state and federal court system.”

“This was a far-fetched effort to undermine and delay a law that is already working wonders,”

Bauers said. “With the Supreme Court rejecting this appeal, itʼs time to focus on creating the affordable homes New Jerseyans urgently need.”

“Using taxpayer dollars to prolong this litigation has only hurt

the towns pursuing it,” he added.

Davies said one claim raised in the lawsuit — that urban municipalities do not have affordable housing obligations — is false.

“Because urban municipalities have historically produced far more affordable housing than suburban towns, their obligations largely involve rehabilitating thousands of existing homes, which far exceed suburban obligations in total,” Davies said.

State, local reactions

In a statement, New Jersey Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said, “With the U.S. Supreme Courtʼs denial of relief in Montvale v. Davenport, every level

of the state and federal courts has now rejected this effort by a small group of towns and their officials to upend New Jerseyʼs landmark affordable-housing law. We look forward to continuing to defend New Jerseyansʼrights to affordable housing under our law.”

Westwood Mayor Raymond Arroyo called the denial “unfortunate,” saying the request was rejected on procedural grounds rather than on the merits of the coalitionʼs argument.

Arroyo said the coalition, which counts Westwood as a member, contends that continuing to exempt 47 “Qualified Urban Aid” municipalities from the Fair Housing Actʼs “prospective need” calcu-

lation violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.

He said that if the same metrics were applied to “exempt towns like Jersey City, Hoboken and Montclair,” Westwoodʼs fourth-round obligation would be reduced.

Township of Washington Mayor Peter Calamari posted, “While the emergency injunction was denied by Justice Samuel Alito, we remain committed to standing with our fellow municipalities and continuing the fight on behalf of our residents. We appreciate the leadership of

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

BYMICHAELOLOHAN OF PASCACK PRESS

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 two-page 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.

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.

and county commissioners Germaine Ortiz and Mary Amoroso.

Forward United, in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Northern Valley, will host a public forum March 1 examining how elections function in New Jersey and how democratic systems can be strengthened.

hagen, board chair of the Voting Rights Institute of New Jersey; former New Jersey Sierra Club director Jeff Tittel; and Lindsey Cormack, author and professor of political science at Stevens Institute of Technology.

The program, “We the People: Reclaiming the Power to Choose,” is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Westwood Community Center, 55 Jefferson Ave. The event is free and open to the public.

The forum follows a recent League-sponsored program held eb. 12 at the same location, featuring Teaneck resident and community activist Paula Rogovin of Eyes on ICE, who spoke about conditions and oversight concerns related to the Delaney Hall Detention Center.

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

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.

See VOTE on page 17

Organizers say the discussion will focus on how elections are administered in New Jersey, including voting access, redistricting, voter rights, and the behindthe-scenes forces that shape political outcomes. Panelists will address opportunities for civic engagement and ways residents can help promote transparency and accountability in government.

That event invited community members to engage with immigration enforcement issues and included a collection of donated warm clothing and supermarket gift cards.

Speakers include civil rights attorney Richard Medina; Julia Sass Rubin, associate dean at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University; Renee Stein-

Organizers said the March 1 forum continues the Leagueʼs mission of civic education by encouraging informed participation in democratic processes.

More information about the event is available through Forward United and the League of Women Voters of Northern Valley.

Feed:

FROM PAGE 6

Cent Store, at 247 Westwood Ave., which closed in 2019 after a 60year run and is now home to the Five Dimes Brewery.

Stories among the stacks

A visit on Feb. 21—the day members of DaCostaʼs family, from Dumont, taped a handwritten “Closing March 7” sign to the door—made plain how much this place has meant to them. As they worked their way through the shop, breaking down displays and sorting decades of accumulated history, one warm story gave way to the next.

Pizza boxes sat beside stacked seed bags: for a family used to rolling up its sleeves, it was an allhands-on-deck day—only this time, slowed by nostalgia.

Family recalled DaCosta standing with customers for long stretches, listening to what animals were being fed, what wasnʼt working, and what might need to change. He collaborated with local veterinarians, helped customers transition animals to new diets, and mixed custom seed blends to suit the wild birds people hoped to attract—resulting in a proprietary, and beloved, no-waste “Westwood Special” mix. (The family wants to continue selling the mix, and is exploring whether this could be made economically viable.)

Grandson Logan LeRose, 18, a Dumont High School football wide receiver looking soon to start college, is one of eight grandchildren who worked in the store over the years. (In his case, since he was 15.) He began to recall playing among the bins as a child, scooping seeds for the joy of it.

One of DaCostaʼs daughters jumped in, finishing the anecdote from her own time as a kid: “And

Dad would say, ʻDonʼt mix up the seeds,ʼ” she recalled, laughing.

Several generations worked in the store, stocking shelves, helping customers, and learning how a small business works. At various points over the years, family members lived in apartments connected to the building, including DaCostaʼs mother, Dorothy, who remained a familiar presence around the store until her death in July 2024 at age 95.

The physical toll of the work accumulated. After decades of breathing grain dust and hay particles, DaCosta developed pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung condition sometimes referred to as “farmerʼs lung.”

“Nobody knew about that,” Bibi said. “People in the Midwest got it—but nobody knew he would.”

By Feb. 21, the floor that for decades had been crammed with wares—watched over first by the store cat Gato and later by Beanie—was beginning to open up. Farm relics and other Americana lined the walls—tools, framed photographs—that might have belonged in a museum. Customers drifted through, some longtime regulars, others drawn in by word of the closing. One bought a horseshoe. Another, shopping for seed for a parrot, left with a scythe. A young girl claimed an unexpected prize: a photograph of a fox.

(Beanie arrived by accident, discovered as a tiny kitten that tumbled from a bale of hay delivered from the familyʼs farm in Pennsylvania, not long after the death of the storeʼs previous cat, Gato. Beanieʼs tenure was 2003–2022.)

DaCosta kept the beat, and a recording studio

Beneath the shop floor, DaCosta had operated a fully functioning recording studio known as Westwood Feedback, where local musicians rehearsed, recorded, and

jammed, and he made recordings for local churches.

Among those who recorded there was Michael Emmanuel, of the punk band the Misfits, who began recording with DaCosta early in his career while living in the area. DaCosta also recorded the reggae band No Discipline and the Muller Brothers, family members said, along with numerous other local musicians.

DaCosta himself was a musician, inspired by guitarist Joe Satriani, and played for hours both in the studio and at home.

“He would write his own songs,” Bibi said. “We still have all of that.”

Saying goodbye

Customers who noticed the closing sign stopped in throughout the day. There were hugs and tears. With the weather report warning of an imminent blizzard, there likely wonʼt be much foot traffic for several days. Nikki DeBiase of Westwood said she and her family learned of the closing only when her daughter, Emma, paused at the door and pointed it out. “I thought it meant they were closed for the day,” DeBiase said. “She said, ʻNo—I think theyʼre closing.ʼ” Inside, the news settled in quickly. “We are devastated right now,” DeBiase said. This is our community. This is Westwood— and itʼs very sad to find out that they wonʼt be here anymore.”

The closing was hard on the family, they said, in part because Westwood Feed Co. has been a thread in peopleʼs lives for decades. Theyʼve watched generations come in for feed and advice—and theyʼve also had to say goodbye, over the years, to longtime customers who passed away. “That was tough,” one daughter said. “My dad was close to a lot of his customers.”

Asked what he would like to say to customers who have passed through Westwood Feed Co. over the years, DaCosta, on the phone in Florida, paused. A practical man, he searched briefly for words to mark the moment.

“Thanks for everything,” he said. “Every dog has its day.”

Hengemuhle pick to lead NJ State Police

TRENTON—Retired New Jersey State Police lieutenant colonel and Westwood/Washington Township native Jeanne Hengemuhle was selected by Gov. Mikie Sherrill, Feb. 25, to be the superintendent of the statewide police force.

“Jeanne is a dedicated public servant with decades of experience in the State Police, and I look forward to working together to continue our mission of keeping New Jerseyans safe,” Sherrill said in a statement.

Hengemuhle could be the first woman to serve in the post;

she must be confirmed by the state Senate to hold the office.

She retired in 2024 after 26 years of service.

“It is an honor to once again answer the call to protect and serve the State of New Jersey,” Hengemuhle said in a statement.

“As a veteran of the State Police, I know firsthand the critical role our Troopers play in building strong community partnerships and safeguarding our residents against potential harm.

“I am grateful that Governor Sherrill has entrusted me with this position, and I will strive to

lead with the State Policeʼs core values of Honor, Duty, and Fidelity.”

Hengemuhle was branch commander of administration, oversaw personnel development, training strategy and recruitment, and led the police academy.

She earned bachelorʼs and masterʼs degrees from The College of New Jersey and is in the schoolʼs Athletic Hall of Fame. S henresides in Middlesex County.

—Staff writer Michael Olohan

OMER SHEM TOVIN TALKON

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. All are invited to attend; registration is requested at valleychabad.org/shemtov.

Zion Lutheran ECC annual fundraiser

Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Centerʼs annual Tricky Tray and Live Auction Fundraiser is Saturday, April 25, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the school, with this yearʼs theme, “Shining Bright Together.”

ming and the learning environment for 2 1/2-, 3- and 4-year-olds at Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Center.

Tax-deductible donations accepted through Tuesday, March 31. Donations of gift certificates, auction items, monetary contributions welcome; corporate sponsorship opportunities available. Request a donation form or arrange a pickup at ZionWWFundraising@gmail .com. Tickets $60. Presale for current school families begins Monday, March 2. In-person sales for Zion Lutheran Church members begin Sunday, March 8, after the 9:30 a.m. service. Digital ticket sales open to the public Thursday, March 12.

The ticketed, adults-only BYOB event includes a catered buffet, multiple tricky tray prize rooms, a live auction and a 50/50 raffle. Prizes include a 10-foot paddle board, a SoJo Spa experience, a 75-inch-plus TV, and themed gift baskets, collectibles, local gift cards and services donated by community supporters. Proceeds support program-

For more information, find the church or school online.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

Spring Craft Show March 22 at Paramus High

Advertisement

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.

Expect booths filled with hand-painted flower pots and glassware; 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 bowls and pens, charcuterie boards, birdhouses, bonsai items, soaps and candles, stained glass, chocolates, sports clocks, florals,

ADVERTISEYOURSERVICEINTHE SERVICE DIRECTORYINTHE PASCACK PRESS.

pottery, mandala and diamond art—plus plenty of other unique gifts and seasonal items.

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

Admission is $4. A breakfast and lunch menu will be available in the cafО. Paramus High School is located at 99 E. Century

Troop’s community dinner, raffle March 6

Itʼs back! The Annual Community Dinner and Raffle fundraiser for Montvale BSA Troop 334 is Friday, March 6 at 6:30 p.m. at Fieldstone Middle School.

Join your neighbors for a fun evening of food, friends, music, a tricky tray raffle, and so much more.

Your dinner includes a pasta and meatball entree with salad and garlic bread. After dinner, enjoy dessert and coffee and the highly anticipated raffle drawing.

Prizes include sports tickets, restaurant gift cards, and much more. Face painting and activities for the kids are provided. Tickets are $12 at the door, $10 in advance. Kids under 5, free. See your Troop 334 scout, email Troop334Montvale@gmail.com , or

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

ETHICAL CULTURE SOCIETY PI DAY 34yearsattable

HILLSDALE/HAWORTH

Hillsdale residents Nestor and Linda Tytla celebrated their “34 Years Together” anniversary on Feb. 17 with dinner at Andiamo in Haworth—an annual tradition for the couple.

Andiamo, which opened in 1990, was the site of their first dinner date in 1992. They have returned each year since to mark the occasion. The Tytlas said they are grateful to see owners Don and Linda Dickstein each year and are happy they have not chosen to retire.

“We love the atmosphere,” the couple shared. “We’ve braved wind, rain, and snow, along with beautiful, clear, starlit evenings—only to return to the table every year. It’s a reflection of a life shared through every season. One day Don and Linda may retire, but until that day, we’ll continue our simple, favorite tradition: Andiamo!”

Left to right: Nestor and Linda Tytla, and Don and Linda Dickstein.

The Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, which counts Pascack 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 food-themed fun, including build-your-own “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.

eats Dining & Cooking Guide

PARK RIDGE

PKRG-TV features expert on ‘Resilient Children’

PKRG-TV is pleased to present Episode 6 of its Well-Being series, “Raising Resilient Children” with Josephine Hunt, MAEd, MAEL.

Hosted by Lori Fredrics, the program offers parents new insights and tips on how to help children to cope with daily challenges by allowing them to experience and navigate them, rather than by paving the way.

Hunt describes what she calls the “resiliency loop,” a means by which children can solve their own problems and build confidence.

Hunt has been a public school educator for 22 years, and holds masterʼs degrees in educational leadership and special education. She is a parent consultant and coach, and is becoming a soughtafter public speaker. Her work explores the intersection of research in psychology, neuroscience, and educational leadership, and the lived experiences of

PKRG-TV presents Episode 6 of its Well-Being series, “Raising Resilient Children” with Josephine Hunt, MAEd, MAEL. Photo courtesy PKRG-TV.

teachers and students. Ms. Hunt has appeared on Mornings with Ken Rosato for On New Jersey News Media, in podcasts, such as The Minimalist Educator and My

Impossible Podcast , and was recently interviewed live on CNN. Viewers can catch the program, now airing on PKRG-TV, Optimum Ch.77 (Park Ridge) and

Verizon Ch.22 (Bergen County), and eventually, on PKRG-TVʼs YouTube channel,

Court:

FROM PAGE 7

Mayor Ghassali and the many local officials working together through the New Jersey State League of Municipalities to address these important concerns.”

Hillsdale Mayor Michael Sheinfield said the borough has continued its fourth-round compliance efforts regardless of the coalitionʼs lawsuit. Hillsdaleʼs realistic development potential for new construction in the fourth round is four units, he said. “Weʼre very pleased with an RDP of four units.”

Ghasali said LLRP is, in Ber-

youtube.com/pkrgtvondemand. Broadcast schedules are available on pkrgtv.com.

gen County: Allendale, Closter, Englewood, Franklin Lakes, Hillsdale, Montvale, New Milford, Norwood, Old Tappan, Oradell, River Vale, Washington Township, Westwood, Wyckoff; Morris County: Denville, East Hanover, Florham Park, Hanover, Mendham, Montville, Parsippany–Troy Hills, Wharton; Essex County: Cedar Grove, Millburn, West Caldwell; Passaic County: Borough, Little Falls, Totowa, Woodland Park; Union County: Clark Township; Monmouth County: Holmdel, Wall Township; Somerset County: Montgomery Township, Warren Township; Salem County: Mannington Township; Sussex County: Sandyston Township.

DAILY MASS

‘How much cash should Ikeep on hand?’

Hshould I have now? It seems like a simple question, but the answer can be complicated — especially in times of market volatility. Apart from an emergency fund, the amount of cash or liquid assets you need depends on many factors, including the current state of the market and major life events.

“There isnʼt really a general rule

in terms of a number,” says Michael Taylor, CFA, Vice President – Senior Wealth Investment Solutions Analyst at Wells Fargo Investment Institute.

“We do say it shouldnʼt be more than maybe 10% of your overall portfolio or maybe three to six monthsʼworth of living expenses.”

Taylor notes that the number could change depending on whatʼs going on in the economy and markets.

“You should make sure your emergency fund and cash reserves can meet your current needs,” he says.

Taylor shares five events that should prompt a conversation with

your financial advisor about how much cash to have on hand.

1. When the market is in flux. The state of the market can have an impact on how much cash you should have on hand, how long you decide to hold an asset as cash, or when to convert assets to cash. This can be especially true when you foresee a large discretionary purchase such as a vacation home or a luxury vehicle.

“Plan for those purchases or defer them so you donʼt have to liquidate assets at a loss during market uncertainty,” Taylor says.

2. When your job status may

change. If youʼre contemplating a career move such as starting a business, retiring soon, or facing a possible layoff, consider meeting with your financial advisor. “If you donʼt have enough cash on hand during those transition periods, you might have to dip into an investment account or sell a stock at an inopportune time,” Taylor says. “That means you could end up losing money when you can least afford it.”

3. When your marital status is about to change. Getting married or paying for a wedding? According to “The Knot 2023 Real Weddings Study,” on average in 2023, couples spent $35,000 total on their wedding, including ceremony, reception and engagement ring. Note that doesnʼt include a honeymoon or the expense of setting up a household.

A divorce can set you back as well, thanks to legal fees, asset division, and other costs. That means you need enough cash on hand to weather the transition from being single to getting married or vice versa. Talking to a financial advisor ahead of time can help you identify how much onhand cash you need.

4. When your child is ready for college. According to projections by Wells Fargo Advisors based on the College Boardʼs “Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid,” the estimated cost of attending a private college for four years (including tuition, fees, and room and board) starting in the 2024 – 2025 school year is more than $251,000.

“Itʼs important to plan so that you have enough liquidity to pay those tuition bills when they arrive,” Taylor says.

5. When you receive a windfall. If you receive an inheritance, a large bonus, or a generous financial gift, ask your financial advisor about investment options relative to the amount of cash you should have in your portfolio. If that money stays in savings or short-term CDs, it wonʼt

decrease in value, but it also may not be able to earn to its full potential.

Your long-term goals, risk tolerance, and spending and saving habits also affect how much cash you should have on hand. A financial advisor can help you strike the right balance.

Total yearly costs for in-state tuition, fees, books, and room and board (transportation and miscellaneous expenses not included). Base is 2024 – 2025 school year. Costs for all future years projected by Wells Fargo Advisors in November 2024 assuming a 3.3% national average increase per year for private colleges (based on a 10year historical average).

Wells Fargo Investment Institute, Inc., is a registered investment adviser and wholly-owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

This article was written for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Eric Kohlmeier, Senior Financial Advisor, Managing Director – Investments in Park Ridge at 201-505-0472.

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. ©2021 – 2025 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. PM07092026-7425974.1.11

FROM PAGE 8

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 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 in-person 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:

ʻBriefer is betterʼ

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 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 elec-

tionsclerk@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 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-by-

mail 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, call 201-336-7020 or write electionsclerk@bergencountynj gov

• 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

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

Rethinking the food pyramid for whole foods

BOOSTYOUR BRAIN POWER

By Dr. Eric Kaplan, DC, DACNB, FACFN, FABVR

MA RCH i s Natio

nal Nutrition

Month — a good time to look not only at whatʼs on our plates, but at how nutrition advice 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.

St. Andrew’s 50+ Club, March 4

St. Andrewʼs 50+ Club next meets Wednesday, March 4 at 1 p.m. in the gym. Fr. D and Fr. Diego will give a presentation on Lent. Annual dues of $15 will be collected, and new members are welcome. Cake and coffee will be served. Attendees are asked to bring an item to donate to the food pantry. For information, call Elaine at 201-664-7037.

Park Ridge Elks St. Pat’s March 14

Park Ridge Elks Lodge will hold its annual St. Patrickʼs Day Celebration on Saturday, March 14, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. at the lodge, 13 Sulak Lane, Park Ridge. Tickets are $65 per person and include a traditional corned beef and cabbage dinner with dessert, beverages, and live entertainment by the High Strung Band, along with Irish step dancers. For tickets, call or text Sharon Herman at (201) 2807602 or Dennis Cosgrove at (201) 739-9296.

Today, the conversation looks very different. The U.S. Department of Agriculture replaced the pyramid with MyPlate, emphasizing vegetables, fruits, protein, and more balanced 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 published multiple large studies associating healthy fats — from sources such as nuts, seeds,

Hillsdale 50+ Club plans trips

The Hillsdale 50+ Club is planning three upcoming bus trips:

• March 26: LiGreciʼs Restaurant, featuring a Frank Sinatra tribute (music and dancing), a comedian, and lunch.

•April 29: Bronx Zoo day trip.

•May 16: The Barn Theater to see Monty Pythonʼs Spamalot Space is limited. Contact Evelyn Pachner at 201-666-7675 or epachner157@gmail.com.

WCLseniors

St. Pat’s Day luncheon

The Woodcliff Lake Senior Association St. Patrickʼs Day Luncheon is Thursday, March 5, at the Senior Center, 411 Chestnut Ridge Road. Music and entertainment will be provided by Peter Lieberman. Non-members are welcome. Cost is $25 per person for non-members and $20 per person for members. RSVP by Feb. 22 by calling Marilyn at (201) 3914720.

HIRING MEDIA SALES ASSOCIATE

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

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 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.

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 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.

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.

Stonybrook Swim Club registration

HILLSDALE — Stonybrook Swim Club is gearing up for the 2026 season, offering five pools, a 14-foot water slide, kiddie slide, swim lessons and a swim team, along with events and amenities including movies, music, private and birthday parties, picnic tables, umbrellas and a concession stand. Membership registration for the season opens March 17 through Community Pass (register.communitypass.net; select Hillsdale, NJ). The club will host an open house May 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A new-member discount is available after May 5; new members should sign up online (without paying) and write phughes@hillsdalenj.org to receive the discount.

Makers Day at HFPL

March 21

The Hillsdale Free Public Library will mark New Jersey Makers Day with a community showcase of local creativity on Saturday, March 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The library seeks local artists, crafters, makers and inventors to participate in the one-day exhibition. The event is intended for residents who knit, crochet, sew, build, join, turn, paint, sculpt, bake, code, solder or otherwise create. Applications to participate are due March 14 and may be downloaded from the library website at hfpl.org. The library plans hands-on activities and demonstrations featuring library equipment. New Jersey Makers Day is a statewide initiative that encour-

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 also 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.

National 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 longterm vitality. Call 201-261-2150, email info@kaplanbrainandbody com, or visit www.kaplandc.com.

ages libraries to highlight STEM learning and maker culture.

‘Bagels for Businesses’ now

March 3

HILLSDALE — Local business owners are invited to “Bagels for Businesses” Tuesday, March 3, featuring an in-person presentation on small business grant opportunities and other resources from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and the Bergen County Division of Economic Development.

Organizers said several NJEDA grant programs are expected to expire later this year and urged businesses to learn about available funding and services while application windows remain open. Bagels and coffee will be served.

Health,Wellness &FitnessGuide

FOOD ADDICTSIN RECOVERY ANON.

F ood Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA), a free 12-step recovery program for people struggling with food obsession, overeating, under-eating or bulimia, holds a special introductory meeting Saturday, March 7, at 11 a.m. at the Montvale Senior Center Atrium, One Memorial Drive.

FA is an international nonprofit recovery program modeled

Veolia:

inches below normal—a shortfall that prompted the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to issue a statewide drought warning in December. While Veolia said it continues to meet customer demand, the extended dry period underscores the need for ongoing conservation.

Every Gallon Counts

MEETING MARCH 7

on Alcoholics Anonymous. Organizers describe food addiction as a condition that can show up in a range of behaviors, including overeating, under-eating, bulimia, over-exercise, laxative abuse, or painful obsession with body image.

The program views recovery as addressing physical, mental and spiritual dimensions through a structured food plan, help from

repairing more than 1,000 hidden underground leaks in recent years using technologies such as acoustic sensors, satellite imagery, drones, and data analytics. The company 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 of treated water that would otherwise be lost.

a sponsor and fellow members, and ongoing support working the 12 steps.

In addition to the March 7 information session, a weekly FA meeting is held Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Montvale Senior Center.

Visit foodaddicts.org or call Susan L. at (978) 886-5469 or Miggie R. at (646) 552-7078.

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.”

ST. JOHN’S ACADEMY INVITESYOUTO RED & WHITE GALA MARCH 19

St. Johnʼs Academy hosts its 26th Annual Red & White Gala on Thursday, March 19, 6–10 p .m. at Edgewood Country Club, 449 Rivervale Road, River Vale.

The Red & White Gala is an annual fundraiser featuring food, entertainment, and “hundreds of prizes,” according to the school.

Tickets went on sale Feb. 2 and can be purchased at sjahills-

dale.org/gala. Tickets are $125 if purchased before March 2, and $150 if purchased March 3–9. Sponsorships are available.

For more information, contact gala co-chairs Christina Uzzi and Andrea Scirocco at sjaredandwhitegala@gmail.com, or call St. Johnʼs Academy at (201) 6646364. St. Johnʼs Academy is at 460 Hillsdale Ave. in Hillsdale.

Military bridge March 27

To register, mail a check to Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club, PO Box 3, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, and include name/contact information and the names of your playing group (seating will be assigned). Questions: 551-2365817 or gpvwc1990@gmail.com. FROM PAGE 4

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

Veolia said it has been working to safeguard water supplies through infrastructure improvements, including identifying and

“Our reservoirs are the heart of daily life in northern New Jersey and safeguarding them is

Morris thanked customers for being mindful of water use and urged continued conservation as spring approaches and water demand typically increases—steps that, Veolia said, may help avoid potential restrictions later — Via Debra Vial, director of communications and community relations at Veolia North America.

The NJSFWC Greater Pascack Valley Womanʼs Club will host a Military Bridge/Tricky Tray Friday, March 27, at the Montvale Senior Center, Memorial Drive. Doors open at 6 p.m.; play begins at 7 p.m. Military Bridge is a team-based, WWII-era variation of contract bridge—no bridge experience required, and

Question:

My husband just had a back tooth pulled and an implant installed, but there is not a tooth in place of his old one. I thought an implant was a tooth!

Answer: Youʼre not alone in thinking that an implant is a tooth. Actually, an implant is a replacement for a root of a tooth

help will be available to learn the game. The evening will also feature a large Tricky Tray raffle, a 50/50 raffle, and refreshments. Tickets $20 per person, with proceeds supporting local charities and scholarships. Seating is limited; the registration deadline is March 20.

which had been in the jawbone before extraction. A post or attachment and a crown or other prosthesis is placed onto the implant, usually after it is allowed to heal and integrate into the bone. In our office we educate both patients and staff in an attempt to clear up the confusion for patients who are new to implant treatments.

For questions about this and other dental procedures ask your dentist or contact Dr. Guller at info@pascackdental.com or call (201) 391-5565

Blizzard:

FROM PAGE 4

hope they were warm, had enough to eat, and had not fallen ill.

T he level of isolation the people experienced is difficult for a modern person to imagine. The Pascack Valley did not yet have newspapers or home mail delivery—and even if it did, it is unlikely these services would have operated in the days after the storm. Home radios were many years away, let alone televisions. Many people, particularly those who lived farther out in the countryside, must have felt like they were alone on an island.

On the second day of the storm, one Park Ridge farmer started out bravely for the barn. There were cattle to be fed and chores that needed to be done. That trip to the barn proved an allday affair. It took him nearly until noon to reach it. When he finally got back to the house, it wasnʼt long before he had to start out again for the evening meal for the cows. Leaving the house at about 2 p.m. for his second voyage, it

was nearly dark as he fought his way home.

We know the aforementioned person was a relatively young man in 1888, because he was interviewed about the storm in 1934. For elderly farmers, their animals went without food for several days. They simply could not make it through the snow.

Another account comes from a young woman in Hillsdale, who wrote to her parents in Park Ridge detailing life after the storm. The letter, which is in the Pascack Hist orical Societyʼs collection, is dated March 14, 1888, although it was likely mailed later.

“This is Tuesday morning. How to get out of the house I donʼt know. The backyard is full of snow up against the door and only a foot from the roof,” she wrote. “The south side of the house is under 8 feet of snow. [My husband] dug through a 5-foot drift so he could get to the barn.

At the woodhouse he was at a loss what to do for coal. The front had snow up to the beams. Plenty of coal, but how could he get it?

From a stepladder he opened the slide at the back and dipped with the scuttle.”

We see no Pascack Valley photographs from the Blizzard of 1888. However, this view, which dates to around 1900, might give you an idea of what our snowbound valley looked like in its rural days. This is the Woodcliff landscape before the “Lake.”

She continued, “Today all the men are out on the roads. At noon all come home worn out, and leave the job until another day.”

There was no public works department back then. Clearing the roads—which mostly involved using shovels to pile snow into horse-drawn wagons— was a job for all the able-bodied men in the community.

“There is hardly a man home in the lower part of town,” the woman wrote. “Some have gone away on business, and others have been sent down the line to help the trains, but neither trains nor men have got in yet.”

Ever since the railroad came to the Pascack Valley in 1870, a growing portion of the population had businesses in the city and were regular commuters on the New Jersey & New York line.

When these men had ventured out on the first morning of the storm, it had been slow going on the way to the city, fraught with delays and frigid temperatures. The snow had continued falling all day, and by the evening commute the trains had stopped running. Many men slept in their offices, as their wives and children at home worried the worst had befallen them. With the telegraph lines down, there was no way to send word home.

The New York Herald wrote on March 13, 1888, “New York was simply knocked out, paralyzed, and reduced to a state of suspended animation. Traffic was practically stopped, and business abandoned. The elevated railway service broke down completely, the streetcars were valueless, the suburban railways were blocked,

telegraph communications were cut, the Exchanges did nothing, the mayor didnʼt visit his office, the city was left to run itself, chaos reigned, and the proud, boastful metropolis was reduced to the condition of a primitive settlement.”

One of the conductors on the Pascack Valley line was Reeves Werkheiser, who also happened to be the proprietor of the Hillsdale House hotel, which is still standing at Broadway and Hillsdale Avenue opposite the railroad station (nowadays it is a salon). Mr. Werkheiserʼs train, full of commuters on their way home, was coming up from Jersey City when he received a message from his superior. He was not to proceed farther north than Hillsdale due to very bad conditions on the track ahead.

The Hillsdale House provided lodging for the stranded railroad passengers. The men slept three or four to a bed, and when they ran out of room, they created makeshift cots on all available floor space. Several men slept on a billiard table. Others remained overnight on the railroad cars, with the fires being kept up for warmth.

Schoolchildren in the Pascack Valley had off for an entire week. By that time, the principal roads were once again passable, even if they were a muddy mess. In the areaʼs rural outskirts, which were characterized by large farms and narrow wagon lanes, the farmers did not concern themselves with clearing the roads. They took the shortest route between two points, chopping down fences and cutting straight across the snow-covered fields until they reached the main thoroughfares.

James S. Mittag of Park Ridge had a printing office on the second

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

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 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

Theatre, 298

Road,

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.

PHOTO CREDIT RICHARD FRANT OF FRANTVISUALS LLC.

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 t he glow-in-thedark venue became a hub of inclusion, connection and fun.

educators and community advocates gathered for activit ies

designed to help every participant feel welcomed and supported.

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

The wheelchairccessible, glow-inhe-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

St. John’s St. Pat’s party March 21

St. John the Baptist Church will host a St. Patrickʼs Day Party on Saturday, March 21, beginning at 6 p.m., at the parish center, 69 Valley St.

The evening will feature food,

complimentary Guinness beer, live music by Mary G and Frankie Lees, Irish dancers, and other entertainment. Tickets are $50 per person, and seating is limited. Reservation forms are available by the church

• Programs from 8 weeks - 5 years. We offer year round full day programs.

•Hours of operation 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Breakfast and Lunch included.

• Age appropriate curriculum.

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doors. Completed reservations and payment should be brought to the rectory office. For more information, call 201-664-3131 or visit stjohnhillsdale.org.

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at both locations! Call for details!

Ellis on ‘Spring Beauties for Biodiversity’

The Sundial Garden Club will sponsor a public lecture, “Spring Beauties for Biodiversity,” by Deb Ellis on Monday, March 2, at 4 p.m. at the Hillsdale Public Library, 509 Hillsdale Ave. Ellis is founder and leader of the Essex Chapter of the Native Plant Society of New Jersey. An environmental advocate focused on native plants and biodiversity, she is also a Master Gardener and Rutgers Environmental Steward, and previously served on the Montclair Environmental Commission. A retired social justice lawyer, Ellis was named a White House “Champion of Change” in 2011.

Organizers said Ellisʼs talk will highlight simple, practical ways gardeners can use native spring flowers to support biodiversity. The program is open to the public, up to the capacity of the meeting room.

Westwood Senior Fellowship St. Pat’s luncheon March 10

TheWestwood Senior Fellowship next meets Tuesday, March 10 for the members-only annual St. Patrickʼs Day luncheon. The registration deadline is March 5. To secure your place or for more information, including on membership, call 201-664-4538. Club president Mary Cerrati says, “See you there!”

The Westwood Regional School District will begin its annual preschool registration for the Integrated Preschool program for the 2026–2027 school year.

The tuition-based program is open to children who are 3 years old and under 5 on or before Oct. 1, 2026, and who reside in the Borough of Westwood or Township of Washington, the district said. Tuition for the program was listed as to be determined.

Families can find an overview of the program and the tuition pay-

ment schedule on the district website. Applications may be downloaded at wwrsd.org by selecting Preschool from the Menu dropdown, or picked up at the Department of Special Services office. Completed applications will be accepted March 2– 23. The district noted that if a lottery is initiated, applications submitted after March 23 will not be eligible. For more information, contact Christine McNeil at 201-664-0880, ext. 2047, or email christine.mcneil@wwrsd.org.

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Recreation pre-K registration begins March 10

Parents of 3- and 4-year-olds are encouraged to save the date for Westwood Recreation Preschoolʼs 2026–27 registration day on Tuesday, March 10. Residents should attend the 9 a.m. session; non-residents should attend the 11 a.m. session.

A first payment of $550 (PreK-4) or $475 (Pre-K 3) is due at registration. Call 201-664-7882 to book a registration appointment and schedule a tour.

Parents seeking local, affordable preschool options may find the Westwood Recreation Preschool

part-time program a good fit for introducing a child to school when full-time child care is not required.

The three-day-a-week, half-day programs for children ages 3 to 5 are designed to foster kindergarten readiness through developmentally appropriate learning opportunities in a nurturing setting.

Westwood Recreation

Preschool is a State of New Jerseylicensed child care facility. Classroom activities support academic and social development by building self-help skills, gross and fine motor skills, and listening skills, while pro-

viding a foundation in literacy, math, social studies, and science. Art, music, seasonal activities, and free play round out the program.

The program is open to children ages 3 to 5 as of Oct. 1, 2026. Proof of residency and birth certificates are required at registration. Children must be potty-trained before entering the program.

Annual tuition is $2,400 for 4to 5-year-olds attending Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Annual tuition is $2,000 for 3-year-olds attending Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12:30 to

2:30 p.m. Tuition is payable in four installments: at registration, September, January, and February. The 2026–27 preschool year begins Sept. 9.

Parents are encouraged to register in March, as class size is limited to 24 for the Pre-K 4 morning class and 20 for the Pre-K 3 afternoon class.

To schedule a tour or ask questions about the program or registration process, call 201-6647882. Additional information is available at the Westwood borough websiteʼs preschool page. For more information, contact Gary Buchheister, recreation director, at gbuchheister@westwoodnj.gov.

Westwood municipal budget session March 9

There will be a special meeting of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Westwood on Monday, March 9 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Conference Room, 101 Washington Ave., Westwood. The purpose of the meeting is to review the 2026 budget. The Council reserves the right to go into closed session, if needed.

Westwood Recreation is inviting residents and neighbors age 55 and older to take part in yoga and tai chi through the departmentʼs Forever Young program.

Forever Young yoga, led by certified instructor Tori Karach, is a 60-minute class for beginners through advanced participants. The class is designed to build flexibility, improve balance and posture, boost mood, increase muscle tone

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and help ease aches and pains.

Yoga meets Thursdays from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. at the Westwood Community Center. The program is free for Westwood residents age 55 and older; the fee for nonresi-

dents is $20 per month.

Forever Young tai chi is taught by instructor Hasmig Mekjian. Tai chi, a Chinese martial art, features slow, continuous movement from one pose to the next and is often

practiced to reduce stress and anxiety. Classes meet Tuesdays at 8 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. Tai chi is free for Westwood residents; the nonresident fee is $30 per month and includes both classes.

To register, adults 55 and older may visit the Westwood Community Center office, 55 Jefferson Ave., Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., or call 201-664-7882.

fies 2,658 street trees and 2,143 vacant planting sites, placing streettree stocking at 44.9%. The plan

This year, the Westwood Shade Tree Advisory Committee hosted its sophomore “Capture the Love (Again) Under the Kissing Tree” Valentine’s Day mini photo session, courtesy borough booster Richard Frant of Frant Visuals LLC. All available RSVP slots filled in less than 24 hours. (For more photos, visit thepressgroup.net.)

estimates the total replacement value of inventoried street trees at approximately $7.7 million.

According to the plan, the inventory data are being used to prioritize maintenance and guide future planting, while also quantifying environmental benefits such as

Proposed strategies include careful species selection, modified sidewalk designs, planting outside narrow curbside strips where feasible, and pairing tree planting with rain gardens and other stormwater infrastructure.

der fungus, an incurable disease that can compromise structural stability. The juxtaposition of celebration and careful risk management mirrors the approach outlined in the boroughʼs new forestry plan.

Public engagement remains a

stormwater interception and carbon sequestration. Overall, 53% of inventoried trees are rated in “good” condition and 38% “fair,” with trees rated “poor” or “dead” addressed promptly by DPW. Roughly half of the boroughʼs tree population is relatively young and would benefit from structured pruning and training as trees mature.

Among the new goals for 2026–2030 are increasing planting targets to at least 100 trees per year; hiring seasonal help to water newly planted trees; expanding training opportunities for DPWʼs tree crew; launching an emerald ash borer inspection and removal program; and exploring a heritage-tree ordinance to recognize notable trees standing on public and private property.

The plan also identifies persistent local challenges, including conflicts between trees, sidewalks, and overhead utility lines; limited planting space in the downtown business district; and recurring flooding in parts of town.

That balance between preservation, public safety, and long-term stewardship is embodied by one of Westwoodʼs most recognizable natural landmarks. In January 2025, the boroughʼs storied “Kissing Tree” — an enormous European beech in Veterans Park — was formally recognized as a Champion and Heritage Tree by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The designation made it the first tree in Westwood to appear on the stateʼs Big and Heritage Tree map, reflecting both its size — the largest European beech of its kind in New Jersey — and its deep cultural history as a long-standing community landmark.

At the same time, officials have continued to closely monitor the Kissing Treeʼs condition after it was diagnosed last year with brittle cin-

central element of that strategy. This year, the Shade Tree Advisory Committee hosted its sophomore “Capture the Love (Again) Under the Kissing Tree” Valentineʼs Day mini photo session. All available RSVP slots filled in less than 24 hours.

Westwood is a Tree City USA community and Sustainable Jersey Bronze Certified, with a Tree City USA Growth Award listed for 2024. The Community Forestry Management Plan includes related ordinances and background materials, including tree removal and replacement requirements, and will guide borough forestry practices through 2030.

Read the plan: westwoodnj.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4967/CommunityForestry-Management-Plan-20262030.

Blizzard:

FROM PAGE 20

floor of a building at Greenwich and Warren streets in New York. After the worst of the stormʼs effects were over, and travel had resumed, he attempted to visit his office. He found that the snow was

still piled up to the second story of his building. Crawling on his hands and knees, he climbed to the top of the snow mountain and entered through a second-floor window.

Alfred M. Blakeney of River Vale was 8 during the blizzard. He recalled the events many years later, in 1947, after another historic snowstorm buried the valley. By that time, he was the townshipʼs

mayor.

“We had to dig a tunnel 80 feet long from the house to the barn so that we could take care of the livestock,” recalled Blakeney of the 1888 storm. “That tunnel was in use a full week.”

The children of River Vale walked atop the snow drifts as they ventured to the one-room schoolhouse at Rivervale Road and Pier-

mont Avenue. Fences and roads were totally obscured, but they knew the land and had little trouble orientating themselves.

In terms of provisions, Blakeney said, people were better prepared back then. There was flour for bread and biscuits, plenty of beef, mutton, and pork, and in the

wintertime the shelves were lined with jars containing preserves. And another thing, he added: “A horse can pull through much deeper and fluffier stuff than a car can. We were far less incapacitated than now, when w e are so dependent on mechanical things.”

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