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County Seat
January 2012
Hackensack South Hackensack Maywood
BY MICHAEL COHEN
Republican Padovano Leading Maywood
Rochelle Park Paramus Teaneck Teterboro
Its a brand new year and with it comes a brand new era in local government for the Borough of Maywood. Republicans have taken took full control of the council and Gregg Padovano is the new mayor, taking over for Democrat Tim Eustace, who didnt seek another term in office and instead won a seat on the state Assembly. In November, Padovano defeated Councilman Erich Fleischmann in the mayoral race 1,328 to 972 in an election that Padovano said was about lowering taxes and opening up the avenue for business to generate local jobs in a rough economy. The election of Padovano, along with newcomers Alfred Ballerini and Dr. Frank Meglio, both fellow Republicans, gives the GOP a 4-2 edge on the council, leaving Fleischmann and Councilman Jack Savage as the lone Democrats. Still, Jan. 1 was a day of celebration and change. During a ceremony at borough hall,
Padovano was sworn in with great fanfare as his wife, Claire, and their four children stood by his side as he took the oath of office. I thought it was fitting that we have a new administration on the New Year; that we use this first day of January to strike out with the renewal for our town. Our town is faced with many challenges. The challenges facing our town will not be solved by Republicans, they will not be solved by Democrats, they will not be solved by rumors, but anything but the hard work of the people at this board, and the people of Maywood, Padovano said during his address. For Padovano it has been a whirlwind experience. Having served as a municipal court judge, municipal prosecutor and municipal public defender in Maywood, Padovano has plenty of legal experience, particularly taxation law. He most notably spent the past 14 years serving at the legal firm of Beattie Padovano in Montvale focusing on taxation, land use and Photo Courtesy: Michael Cohen Maywood Mayor Gregg Padovano was joined by his family at his inauguration cer- municipal law cases. emony. Continued on Page 16
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Hackensack Wins Major Victory

BY KATHLEEN KANE U.S. District Court Judge Susan D. Wigenton issued a decision on Dec. 28 dismissing the federal lawsuit brought by Hackensack Police Officer Joseph Al-Ayoubi in its entirety against Chief Ken Zisa and Capts. Thomas Salcedo and Danilo Garcia. In 2009, while Salcedo was conducting an internal affairs investigation involving Lt. Vincent Riotto, Riotto provided Salcedo with several recorded conversations. These conversations were considered to implicate Al-Ayoubi as well as other police officers in possible steroid use. As a result of this information, Al-Ayoubi was ordered to undergo a urine test. When the test results came back, the officer was informed that the urine came back dirty and that he had tested positive for steroids. Al-Ayoubi felt that these statements and the written criminal complaints were defamatory, and, on May 20, 2010, he filed a complaint citing various civil rights violations. In June 2010, Zisa and the City of Hackensack filed a motion to dismiss. On Aug. 12, 2010, the court dismissed part of the complaint. Al-Ayoubi immediately filed an amended complaint adding new allegations and also adding Salcedo and Garcia as defendants. In May and June 2011, Zisa, Salcedo and Garcia all filed motions to dismiss all claims. Wigenton, in her opinion, stated, that it was objectively reasonable for Zisa to order a drug test to determine if an officer was using illegal or prohibited drugs . . . The judge further stated that Al-Ayoubi has not set forth the claims . . . upon which he may be entitled to relief for violations of state and federal constitutional rights. Wigenton, with regard to the officers allegations against Salcedo, stated that the assertions of conspiracy were not supported by the factual allegations in the amended complaint, but rather are set forth with conclusory statements of conspiratorial goals. As a result, the complaints against Salcedo have been dismissed. The complaint against Garcia was also
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Town News
Twas the Season South Hackensack Welcomes Mayor Brugger
Photos Courtesy: Gail Vachon
Lauren and Alex Samulka; members of the Hackensack City Council with Santa; and the tree on the Green. The City of Hackensack kicked off the season on Dec. 5 by lighting the holiday tree at the historic Green and welcoming Santa for an early visit. There was caroling, costumed childrens characters and performances from Butterfingers Angel by members of the cast from the Hackensack Cultural Arts Center. City employees served hot chocolate and popcorn and the Shade Tree Commission distributed treeshaped lollipops. Santa, who arrived on a Hackensack Fire Department rig, greeted children and handed out small gifts while parents snapped photographs.
Photos Courtesy: Patti McNamara
South Hackensack Mayor Gary Brugger is sworn in by Municipal Clerk Linda LoPiccolo as his family looks on; Committeeman Walter Eckel is sworn in by Assemblywoman Marlene Caride; and Committeeman Bill Regan is sworn into office. BY PATTI MCNAMARA Township hall veteran Gary Brugger officially took control of South Hackensack when he was sworn in as the towns newest mayor during a meeting on Jan. 2. Municipal Clerk Linda LoPiccolo administered the oath of office to Brugger, who had his wife, children and in-laws at his side. Brugger, a veteran committeeman, thanked the crowd of roughly 100 supporters. I am humbled to be appointed as mayor, he said. It is a stressful but rewarding job. We are all one team and we are going to work together. We will continue to provide the best of services. Committeeman Vincent Stefano congratulated Brugger. Gary is totally bipartisan and wants what is best for this town. Assemblywoman Marlene Caride administered the oath of office to Committeeman Walter Eckel, who was most recently serving as mayor and was re-elected to the committee last November. At the meeting, Brugger presented Eckel with a plaque for his many years of service to the township. Newly-elected Committeeman Bill Regan, who ran on a ticket with Eckel, was sworn in to office with his wife also at his side. Regan, who was elected to a three-year term, said he is looking forward to working as a team with his fellow committee members. Committeeman Frank Cagas, who has served for two years, was sworn in as deputy mayor. In regular meeting business, Stefano congratulated Daniel Perone for enriching the lives of all the children of South Hackensack. Perone, who accepted a plaque from Brugger, recently retired as director of the South Hackensack Recreation Department after more than 35 years. Brugger and the entire committee also thanked James Anzevino, a former committeeman, for his 24 years of service to the township. Dolly Montenegro, president of the Senior Club of South Hackensack, presented the committee with a new American flag to be displayed in the courtroom. Montenegro thanked the public works department and the township committee for maintaining the senior room where the 100-member club meets regularly. Volume 9 Issue 5
Serving Hackensack, South Hackensack, Maywood, Rochelle Park, Paramus, Teaneck, and Little Ferry
Publisher Gail Marie Zisa Editor-in-Chief Lauren Zisa Art Director Donald Hatcher Deputy Editor Melody Travisano Sales Manager Avis LoVecchio Writers Yasmeen Al-Shehab Michael Cohen Kathleen Kane Patti McNamara Gail Vachon Juliann Weston
Little Ferry Marine Honored
A bill honoring the late Sgt. Matthew Fenton, introduced by Rep. Steve Rothman on July 29, was recently signed into law by President Barack Obama. The entire New Jersey Congressional delegation joined Rothman as cosponsors of H.R. 789, which calls for the renaming of the post office in Little Ferry in honor of the late Marine, who was a resident of Little Ferry and died in the Iraq war. Marine Sgt. Matthew J. Fenton is a true American hero and represents the best of our county, said Rothman. It is a humbling privilege for me to play a small part
Top Decorators Named
in honoring Marine Sergeant Fenton by naming the post office in his home town of Little Ferry, NJ, the Sergeant Matthew J. Fenton Post Office. This post office will stand as a testament to his bravery and sacrifice. In 2006, at just 24, Fenton was struck by shrapnel after alerting his fellow Marines to the presence of a suicide bomber. All of them escaped harm except for Fenton, who passed away nine days later at the national naval medical center in Bethesda, Md. a day after receiving a Purple Heart for his bravery.
The 2011 Maywood Christmas Home Decorating Contest judging took place on Dec. 28. The following winners were announced in the southwest section: 101 W. Magnolia Ave., first place; 136 Prospect Ave., second place; and 117 W. Magnolia Ave., honorable mention. In the northwest section: 644 Grant Ave., first place; 734 Lincoln Ave., second; and 653 Grant Ave.,
County Patrolling Teterboro
honorable mention. In the southeast section, the first place winner was 174 Clinton St.; 102 Orchard Place, second; and 57 Howcroft Road, honorable mention. Finally, in the northeast section, the first place winner was 48 Walnut Road; second place went to 714 Elm St.; and honorable mention was awarded to 130 Washington Ave.
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Page 2 - January 2012 - The County Seat
Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan has signed an executive order directing the Bergen County Police Department to provide patrol and ancillary police services in Teterboro. The Little Ferry and Moonachie forces have been policing sections of Teterboro for the past 15 years. This inter-local agreement will save the taxpayers of Teterboro more than $175,000 per year, officials said. The Bergen County Police Department already has a significant presence in the borough through the Bergen County Animal Shelter, Bergen County Technical High School and the opening of the Bergen County Juvenile Deten-
tion Center. The Bergen County police currently patrol Route 46 and the BCPD Bomb Squad currently provides security for dignitaries arriving and departing Teterboro Airport. This is a logical progression for the county police to expand their presence in Teterboro, said Donovan. We will also be generating revenue for the county, which will cover our costs and save money for the taxpayers of Teterboro. Bergen will be providing these services to Teterboro for $100,000 per year. This is another example of municipalities and the county coming together for the benefit of the taxpayers, said Donovan. The contract went into effect on Jan. 1.
Town News
Younger Kovalcik Running Rochelle Park Synagogue Fights the Hate
BY PATTI MCNAMARA As the rain pounded down on the roof at Temple Beth El, supporters gathered on the last night of Hanukah to band together against the recent hate. Roughly 300 people came out on Dec. 27 to discuss the defacement of the Summit Avenue synagogue, which police suspect is linked to vandalism at a Maywood temple the week before. Temple Beth Els building and its sidewalks were riddled with anti-Semitic symbols and rantings about 9-11. The temples secretary, Joanne Rose, discovered the graffiti upon arriving to work. She said she had never seen a swastika in her life and was heartbroken to find it scrawled across the door of the synagogue. The cases are being handled by the Hackensack and Maywood police departments and the state Department of Criminal Justice as these acts are considered bias crimes. On this evening, congregants came to the Service of Rededication to hear Temple Beth El President Mark Zettler speak about the crime. It boggles my mind, he said. Rabbi Robert Schumeister thanked the community including our Christian neighbors, strangers and all others who have come out in support and to offer assistance. Out of hate, come many good things. Those in attendance included Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan, Hackensack Mayor Jorge Meneses and the Rev. Donald Pitches, president of the Bergen County Council of Churches. Bergen County will not tolerate what has happened here and in Maywood. Injustice and criminality will not be tolerated. As a government, we stand united with you and we will defeat these injustices, Donovan told the crowd. Meneses echoed Donovans sentiments. This is a heinous act that I never thought I would see in my beloved city of Hacken-
Photo Courtesy: Patti McNamara
Rabbi Robert Schumeister and temple members light the menorah. sack. Why is someone disturbing our peace and writing messages of hate? Daniel Kirsch, an attorney representing the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey, spoke about building relationships within the community. I am angry. I was upset last week, but now they have come to my town. Kirsch then spoke directly to the vandals. We are calling you out. Our lights are calling you out of the shadows. There is a place for everyone; but no place for you, shouted Kirsch. Following a performance by Troubadour Cecilia St. King of the National Peace Academy, the Rev. Gregory Jackson of Mount Olive Baptist Church of Hackensack addressed the crowd. In this holy season of Judaism and Christianity, candles are a sign of peace and they also protest to the darkness at midnight. Candles say, I beg to differ to darkness. Well, we beg to differ with the perpetrators of this act. The ceremony was closed following the lighting of the menorah candle by Ingrid and Ilana Galed and a short prayer. Anyone with information on the vandalism of Temple Beth El is asked to call Hackensack police at 201-646-7777.
Photo Courtesy: Patti McNamara
Rochelle Park Mayor Jay Kovalcik (second from right) was joined by his brother, mother, sons, his uncle and Township Attorney Joseph Rotolo at the ceremony. BY PATTI MCNAMARA When Kenneth Kovalcik unexpectedly passed away five years ago, his son, Jay, was appointed to fill his fathers seat on the Rochelle Park Township Committee. Not only did he succeed in becoming one of the townships leaders, the younger Kovalcik became Rochelle Parks newest mayor before a packed house at township hall on Jan. 4. Surrounded by his family, including his mother and two sons, Kovalcik was sworn into office by Rochelle Park Township Attorney Joseph Rotolo. After thanking his supporters, Kovalcik took his seat at the committee table, lifted the gavel and announcing, I am going to do this, just for no reason. The crowd laughed and cheered as the gavel slammed down. Also sworn in at the reorganization meeting were Committeemen Joseph Scarpa, who was most recently serving as mayor, and Frank Valenzuela and Councilwoman Jayme Ouellette. The following volunteer firefighters were sworn into duty for 2012: Chief Alfred Carroll, Assistant Chief Dave Brown, Battalion Chief Michael Stearns, Battalion Chief Robert Holzmann, Capt. Peter Donatello III, Capt. Jim Sheridan, Lt. Alex Seretis, Lt. Jeff Wanco, the Rev. Kevin Coffey as chaplain and Darryl DeMott as fire official. Kovalcik swore in the officers of the Rochelle Park Ambulance Corps for 2012: Capt. Roland Jacobsen; First Lt. Ben Varghese; Second Lt. Steven Cassiello; and Secretary Debbie Gardocki. The ambulance squad responded to 900 calls in 2011. Committeeman Robert Davidson was assigned as liaison to the police, Office of Emergency Management, senior citizens and veterans affairs. Kovalcik will oversee ambulance, health and insurance; Valenzuela will cover school board, fire department and planning board. Ouellette will oversee the construction department, civil rights, library and recreation. Lastly, Scarpa will be the liaison for community development, municipal court, department of public works, recycling and finance/administration.
Employee Brunch Celebrates 2012
Demands Total $20M, Awards Reduced to Fractions
BY KATHLEEN KANE Over the last six years, a flurry of civil lawsuits has been filed against the City of Hackensack. With each of these lawsuits comes a demand that the plaintiff has determined is fair retribution. In response, the city has stepped up its enforcement of its established no-settlement policy. Although the city has spent roughly $3 million defending itself against the lawsuits, the savings have been tremendous, according to City Attorney Joseph Zisa. Had these lawsuits been settled, the cost to the city and to the taxpayers would be in excess of $20 million. Although we have chosen not to settle, each case has been examined individually, said Zisa. If the case has merit then a settlement would certainly be explored. The following is a sampling of recent civil suits filed against the City of Hackensack and their conclusions.
Photo Courtesy: Gail Vachon
Hackensacks municipal government workers enjoyed a New Years brunch on Dec. 30 prepared by the employees themselves. Joining the staffers were elected city council members and department heads.
Narges Toofani vs. City of Hackensack. The plaintiff demanded $100,000; an arbitrator suggested $10,000; and the final award was $6,000. Alexander Davis vs. City of Hackensack. The plaintiff demanded $1 million. An arbitrator suggested an award of $87,500, but nothing was awarded as the case was dismissed. PC Air Rights vs. City of Hackensack. A group of developers, known as PC Air Rights, attempted to build a high-rise complex over the railroad tracks on Prospect Avenue but was denied the variances. The city prevailed in both the Superior Court and the Appellate Division. The developer did not take the case to the Supreme Court. Barbara and Juan Romero vs. City of Hackensack. The Romeros demanded $1.5 million from the city but the case was dismissed by summary judgment.
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The County Seat - January 2012 - Page 3
Police Briefs
Paramus Catholic Duo Indicted A Bergen County grand jury has returned a 25-count indictment against two former Paramus Catholic High School employees, Artur Sopel, 32, and Michael Sumulikoski, 28. The men were arrested on April 5, 2011 as a result of an investigation conducted by members of the countys Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit. It is alleged that Sopel, of River Edge, and Sumulikoski, of Elmwood Park, engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct in separate incidents involving four teenage female students who attended the school. The alleged inappropriate sexual conduct occurred during a Paramus Catholic High School-sponsored Belgium/Germany exchange trip in February 2011 while the students were in Germany. The men attended the trip as school chaperones. Sopel is accused of engaging in sexual activities with two of the female students in separate incidents during the trip and Sumulikoski is accused of engaging in sexual activities with one. It was also reported that Sopel had implored two of the victims to withhold cooperation during the investigation. The initial allegations were reported to the state Division of Children and Families Institutional Abuse Investigation Unit, which contacted the county investigators. After the initial allegations were reported, a fourth female victim alleged that she had engaged in sexual activities with Sopel in May 2010 when she was a student at Paramus Catholic High School. The indictment charges Sopel with five counts of endangering the welfare of a child and 12 counts of sexual assault. He is also charged with two counts of witness tampering. The indictment charges Sumulikoski with three counts of endangering the welfare of a child and three counts of sexual assault. Maywood Jewish Temple Vandalized On Dec. 11, 2011, members of Temple Beth Israel, located at 34 West Magnolia Ave., discovered that the building had been vandalized with anti-Semitic images. The damage was done with red and black spray paint at the front entrance to the temple. The Maywood Police Department is currently conducting an investigation into the incident. Rochelle Park Rookie Applauded At 8:20 p.m. on Dec. 22, Paramus police broadcast a description of two robbery suspects who had snatched the purse of a female shopper at the Garden State Plaza. Rochelle Park Police Officer Todd Starling, who recently joined the force, spotted the men inside a vehicle on the corner of Becker Avenue and High Street, where one of the suspects was attempting to change a flat tire. With the help of Officer Chris Bermudez, who quickly arrived on the scene, both officers placed the suspects under arrest and turned them over to Paramus officers, reports said. New Years Eve Burglaries On Dec. 31, a Rochelle Park resident noticed two men acting suspiciously in the area of Parkway and Grove Avenue and called police. After a short surveillance, Officers Dean Pinto and Todd Starling spotted two men matching the witness description standing in the driveways of homes on Grove Avenue. Police later learned that at least eight vehicles had been burglarized in the neighborhood. Amir Hussain, 18, of New York City, and Henry Schonauer, 18, of Larchmont, N.Y. were arrested and charged with burglary. Police said they were found to be in possession of the stolen items from numerous vehicles. Police Chief Richard Zavinsky applauded the vigilant resident who provided the information which led to the arrests. Anyone who believes his or her vehicle was entered on the night of Dec. 31 is urged to contact the Rochelle Park Police Department at 201-843-1515. Arsonist Targets Paramus Synagogue The Paramus Police Department and the Bergen County Prosecutors Office Arson Squad are conducting a joint investigation into a fire at Congregation KHal Adath Jeshuran, located at 140 Arnot Place, Paramus. At 7:51 a.m. on Jan. 3, members of the congregation reported to Paramus police a strong odor of gas in the building. Upon inspection by police and fire officials, it was learned that an accelerant was used in the rear of the building and a fire started. The fire self-extinguished and caused minimal damage to the exterior of the building, reports said. Anyone with information on the case or those responsible is asked to contact the Paramus Police Department at 201-262-3400 or the Bergen County Prosecutors Office at 201-226-5787. Home Intruder, Friend Captured At 2:11 a.m. on Dec. 30, the Maywood Police Department received a 9-1-1 call from a Grant Avenue resident reporting an intruder in her home. When patrol officers arrived, they discovered an open first floor window on the side of the home. However, a search of the surrounding area and the home turned up nothing. Although no items were removed from the home, the suspect dropped his cellular telephone while inside the home. A further investigation by the Maywood Police Department Detective Bureau revealed that the owner of the cellular telephone was Luis Paulino of New York City. Paulino is believed to have been visiting a local resident, Damian Madrid, also of Grant Avenue. Arrest warrants were issued for Paulino for burglary and Madrid for conspiracy to commit burglary. On Jan. 2, Madrid was arrested, and, three days later, Paulino was captured, police said. South Hackensack Holiday Standoff A 41-year-old South Hackensack man was arrested after a 10-hour standoff with the Bergen County Police Department SWAT Team the morning after Christmas. At 11:04 p.m. on Christmas, the South Hackensack Police Department received a call from a woman who reported that she had been assaulted by her husband, explained Capt. Robert Kaiser. Police arrived at the Chestnut Avenue home and entered through the back door, which was ajar. Officers found the husband, identified as Steven Spalnick, in the hallway outside the homes bathroom holding knives in each hand. The wife had locked herself and her 6-month-old son in that bathroom to escape Spalnick, police said. The officers demanded that Spalnick drop the knife, but he refused. After the 12th request, Spalnick fled down the hallway into a bedroom where he barricaded the door with furniture. While the officers were negotiating with Spalnick, the South Hackensack Fire Department arrived and pulled Spalnicks wife and son to safety by placing a ladder at the second floor bathroom. The Bergen County Swat team was called to the scene to negotiate with Spalnick, who, after 10 hours, surrendered. He was charged with aggravated assault, aggravated assault against a police officer, possession of a weapon, resisting arrest and endangerment of a child. Spalnicks wife sustained injuries and was admitted to Hackensack University Medical Center, reports said. Facebook Rescues Sex Victim A Hackensack man has been arrested for allegedly forcing a woman into prostitution as payback for bail money, reports said. Hackensack police said the victim, 30, was serving time in a South Jersey jail when she met a woman who said her ex-boyfriend would be able to post her bail. The victim contacted Trenace McCarroll, 29, of Hackensack, who bailed her out on the condition that she would go on dates with him. McCarroll then allegedly forced her to work as a prostitute for approximately 10 days. He threatened to kill her if she tried to leave, police said. While on a date, the victim was able to access the Internet on her inactive cellular phone and contacted her brother through Facebook. On Dec. 28, the brother called the police where he lives in South Jersey. Officers there asked Hackensack police to conduct a welfare check at 80 Clarendon Pl. Although McCarroll wasnt home, his girlfriend was questioned and marijuana and drug paraphernalia was discovered in the home, police said. When McCarroll learned about the problem, he admitted to police that the drugs were his and pleaded with officers not to arrest his girlfriend. When McCarroll arrived at Hackensack police headquarters, the victim was with him. McCarroll was charged with marijuana possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal restraint, promoting prostitution and human trafficking and remanded to the Bergen County jail, reports said. His bail was set at $120,000, with no 10 percent option. Burglars Busy New Years Eve Several Main Street businesses and an Anderson Street restaurant were burglarized on New Years Eve and Hackensack police are still looking for suspects. At Tips and More, located at 807 Main St., the front glass door was broken, drawers were opened, the rooms were ransacked and a total of $200 in cash and jewelry was taken. At Hong Kong Chinese, just a few steps away, the front glass door was broken and money was stolen from the drawer. At Hair on Main, 823 Main St., the front door was shattered and money was taken from the register. At Diva la Nails, located just across the street, the front glass door was broken and money and jewelry were taken. At House of Pizza, 840 Main St., the front glass door was broken and the register was taken. Finally, at China Palace, 93 Anderson St., the Plexiglass window was pushed inside and money was taken from the register. Each scene was checked for evidence such as fingerprints by Hackensack police and the Bergen County Sheriffs Office. According to Hackensack Police Lt. Jaime Barrios, the burglaries appear to be connected and all leads are actively being investigated. Gas Station Attendant Robbed On Dec. 30, a gas station attendant at the Gulf gas station located at 295 Passaic St. was robbed, police said. A heavy set man wearing all black walked up to the station and punched the attendant in the back of his head. The suspect took money from the attendants hand and ran off, heading west on Passaic Street. An investigation continues. Shady Businessman, 76, Arrested A Hackensack business owner has been arrested by the Bergen County Prosecutors Office for allegedly swindling dozens of clients out of money, reports said. Members of the countys White Collar Crimes Squad received information from a reporter for Channel 7 Eyewitness News that there were numerous consumer complaints for fraud filed against Jack Abramson and his company, JAG Equipment Sales. An examination of his financial revealed that there were a number of other potential victims. After detectives contacted these people, it was learned that they had also been defrauded by Abramson, 76. Detectives learned that numerous victims that had entered into purchase agreements with Abramson to buy or lease commercial restaurant equipment. These businesses had been solicited by Abramson, and, during the course of taking orders from them, Abramson would prepare a purchase or leasing invoice agreement describing the equipment to be purchased and detailing pricing and delivery times. At that time, the victims would provide Abramson with a deposit ranging from $276 to $20,400 for the services and/or products promised. The victims never received the equipment. On Dec. 21, 2011, Abramson was indicted for one count of theft by deception, a crime of the second degree, one count of misconduct by a corporate official, a crime of the second degree and 30 counts of theft by deception in the third degree. On Jan. 5, Abramson was arrested at his home on Second Street without incident by members of the Bergen County Prosecutors Office and the Hackensack Police Department on the post-indictment warrant. Smash-and-Grab Robber Captured On Jan. 9, the Maywood Police Department arrested Thomas A. Bodurka, 44, of Rochelle Park, for allegedly committing a burglary and theft at the Krauszers Convenience Store on West Pleasant Avenue. Police say Bodurka entered the store on at 3 a.m. on Jan. 7 by smashing the front window with a hammer. He stole several scratch-off lottery tickets and fled in a vehicle he had parked outside. Bodurka was identified from surveillance video of the incident, reports said. Bodurka was arrested at his home in Rochelle Park where police say they found evidence that linked him to the burglary at Another Facet Jewelry Store, which was burglarized on Dec. 27. In that incident, a window was smashed and a jewelry display case was removed. Further investigation revealed that a second man, now identified as Thomas Diana, 28, of Maywood, committed the burglary at Another Facet with Bodurka. Bodurka remains at the Bergen County jail unable to post $10,000 bail. Dianas whereabouts are currently unknown and there is an active warrant for his arrest. Man, 40, Faces Sex Charges A 40-year-old Hackensack man has been arrested and charged with sexually abusing a child, reports said. On Jan. 10, members of the Hackensack Police Department and the Bergen County Prosecutors Office Special Victims Unit arrested Nino Vidal, of Ames Street, after learning that he allegedly engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct with a juvenile female acquaintance. The juvenile alleged the sexual abuse occurred in the past and reported the sexual abuse to the Hackensack Police Department whose officers contacted the Bergen County Prosecutors Office and an investigation ensued resulting in the arrest. Vidal was charged with aggravated sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child. Bail for Vidal was set by Judge Gary Wilcox at $350,000 with no 10 percent option, no contact with the victim and surrender of his passport. Vidal remains at the Bergen County Jail unable to post bail.
Trio Joins Hackensack Force
Letter to the Editor

Negative Situation, Positive Outcome
The congregation of Reconstructionist Temple Beth Israel in Maywood extends its sincere thanks and appreciation for the huge outpouring of support we received in the days immediately following the anti-Semitic vandalism we discovered on our property on Dec. 11. In addition to our colleagues within the Jewish community, we must commend Maywoods borough officials, Department of Public Works employees, members of the Maywood Rotary and the American Legion who came together promptly to remove all traces of the defacement without being asked. Our wheelchair ramp has received a fresh coat of paint, the sidewalk and the building are clean once again, and we are bolstered by the Maywood communitys kind response on our behalf. We have received encouraging and kind words from Maywoods interfaith community which has helped us to strengthen our connections to this wonderful town that our congregation has called home since the late 1920s when it was formed. Thank you to everyone who has acknowledged that brotherhood, tolerance and diversity are what makes for a well-rounded, good-neighbor community. We are so very grateful to you all. Reconstructionist Temple Beth Israel Maywood
Franklin Laboy, Jason Sawyer, Hackensack Mayor Jorge Meneses, Hackensack Police Capt. Tomas Padilla, the forces officer in charge, and Sean Briggs. The Hackensack Police Department grew by three when the 107th class, comprised of 18 members, graduated from the Law and Public Safety Institute of Bergen County in Mahwah during a ceremony at Bergen Community College on Dec. 22. The men joining the Hackensack force are Sean Brings, Franklin Laboy and Jason Sawyer. During the ceremony, Sawyer was presented the Bergen County Chiefs Top Gun Award. Laboy received two awards, the DCJ Merit Award and the Police and Fire Academy Executive Officer Award. The days keynote speaker was Dr. John LoCurto of Hackensack University Medical, LoCurto, a trauma surgeon. During the ceremony, Paramus Police Officer Rachel Morgan read a tribute to LoCurto, thanking him for saving her life after she was shot last February.
City Hires Police Veterans
Time to Laugh Out Loud

The 15th annual Knights of Columbus Comedy Night will be held at 8 p.m. on Jan. 28 at Velocity 17 in Maywood. This year, the Knights have invited three comedians to entertain the crowd. Vic DiBitetto was the $10,000 grand prize winner of ABCs Americas Funniest People. He has appeared on the pay-per-view special Slice of Italian Comedy and has warmed up audiences for shows such as Who Wants to Be a Millionaire and The Ricki Lake Show. Comedian Rich Ramirez has appeared on A&Es American Honor: Whats So Funny? and has performed at clubs, colleges and theaters across the country. Finally, guests will be treated to the comedy of Mike Burton, who has appeared on Fox televisions The Fringe and has opened for Dave Chappelle, Jim Breuer and other famous comedians. Tickets are $25 per person and the event, which is a major fundraiser for the Knights, is BYOB. For tickets, call 201-832-9133 or 201-712-1046.
Capt. Tomas Padilla, Councilwoman Karen Sasso, Frank McCall, Mohammed Sheikh, Mayor Jorge Meneses and City Manager Steve Lo Iacono. The Hackensack Police Department welcomed two new officers to the force during a swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 3. Officer Frank McCall is a second generation policeman. He has worked for numerous forces including the Essex County Sheriffs Department and the Newark Police Department. He comes to Hackensack as an intergovernmental transfer, the fourth to recently join the force as part of the system. Officer Mohammed Sheikh was hired from the Rice List, which was established by State Sen. Ronald Rice of Newark as a way to help experienced police officers who have been laid off due to budget cuts. Sheikh, whose family owns businesses in the Clifton area, comes to Hackensack with four years of law enforcement experienced gained at the Paterson Police Department. He is the fifth Rice List hire for Hackensack and is the first Muslim hired by the department According to Lt. Tim Lloyd, the Hackensack forces training officer, these men bring a wealth of knowledge to the department. The officers will go through a six-week training period to familiarize themselves with the Hackensack Police Departments computer systems, reports and procedures. Capt. Tomas Padilla, the forces officer in charge, said that he receives dozens of resumes and has assigned a team of lieutenants to review them and interview the potential hires. This process broadens the field for our department, said Padilla. The Hackensack Police Department will soon send four new recruits to the police academy.
Good Job, Hackensack P.D.
At a recent ceremony, AAA North Jersey presented the Hackensack Police Department with an AAA Award of Merit in recognition of the forces outstanding traffic safety education program and effective traffic enforcement method. Among its many traffic safety-related activities, the department organizes bicycle and Halloween safety programs and hosts Otto the Auto programs in the schools.
Photo Courtesy: AAA North Jersey
AAA North Jersey Vice President James Dugan with Hackensack Sgt. George Gan and Lt. Francesco Aquila.
Ringing in the New Year
New Volunteer Ambulance Crew Leaders

The Hackensack Volunteer Ambulance Corps recently welcomed its new officers for 2012: Chief John Knapp, Deputy Chief Matthew Dogali, and Capts. Frankie Garrett and Chris Morgan and Lts. Noel Burris, Keith Dalto, and Bill Pinkerton. Current administrative officers are President Brian Corcoran, Treasurer Terri Pegg, Trustees Les Leidy, Jill McNamara and Ken Mewele and Secretary Stephanie Bisulco. Further information about the Hackensack Volunteer Ambulance Corps can be found at www.HackensackVAC.org.
Photo Courtesy: Rory Sutherland
Chief John Knapp (front), Deputy Chief Matthew Dogali (left), and Capt. Frankie Garrett.
Photo Courtesy: Terry Gold
A vintage New Years postcard. BY BARBARA J. GOODING Happy New Year! We will all still be greeting each other for the next weeks in such a matter. When doing so, we each exchange how we escorted in the New Year. Its a great way to discover the uniqueness of our heritages and practices that are continued year after year. Food and its meaning is an integral part of the New Years celebration. At the midnight hour, grapes play a major role in the home of a Mexican-American friend of mine. Each family member receives 12 of them and the countdown begins. One eaten grape represents a wish for each month of the coming year. Biting into a sweet grape will signify that month to be a good one; a sour grape, not a pleasant one. Fascinating as well are many other good luck foods eaten by celebrating families hoping for destined prosperity, wealth, love and overall good fortune. It is believed that specific foods can affect the luck one has throughout the coming year by what he or she ate or did on the first day of the New Year. Eating black eyed peas (Hoppin John) on New Years Day and the day after (Skippin Jenny) surely meant hope for the coming year. Eating collard, mustard or turnip greens would bring wealth because they are the color of money. Corn bread was gold and also represented wealth. Peas represented pennies or any coins. One would leave three peas on their plate at the end of their New Years meal to ensure that the New Year would be filled with luck, opulence and romance. There are also the remembrances of celebrations past. One person recalled to me his living as a 6-year-old in Holland back in the 1950s. World War II was gratefully over but the country was literally flat broke. Saint Nick had already arrived with his helper, Zwarte Piet. The Christmas tree could potentially still be standing and lit with a few candles. The weeks surrounding Christmas and New Years were always filled with special sweets as the exchange of gifts was mostly non-existent. Many believed anything in the shape of a ring was good luck as symbolized the coming full circle, completing a years cycle. Doughnuts were plentiful as was the marzipan in animal shapes and the sweet dark chocolates. One unique experience shared with me was the recollection of celebrating the New Year while living and working on a kibbutz outside Nazareth in the mid 1970s. Since Rosh Hashanah is the true Jewish New Year, Dec. 31 and New Years Day was predominately shared amongst the volunteers not only from the states but with those from many other countries such as Holland, Sweden, South Africa and Canada. They would gather together as a family and joyously ring in the New Year by playing allAmerican pop songs and dancing. Growing up in Hackensack in the 1950s, many of us seemed to have a similar recollection. Parents were either home or out locally with friends on New Years Eve. We who stayed at home, if we didnt have a TV, would go to someones home to watch Canadian Guy Lombardo conduct his big band and all those dancing couples; men in tuxedoes whirling their fancy dressed partners with tiaras in their hair along a ballroom floor. Our party at home would continue by putting on our party hats and grabbing noise makers. Soon the countdown would begin and wed wait to watch the ball to drop at Times Square; an event since 1907. After hugs, kisses and wishing each other a happy New Year, many of us would rush outside marching about the block beating pots and pans. In my case, it would be my Dad who made all the noise. He would pull an old Navy boat horn out of the closet and place it onto the front porch. Hed let out a half dozen short blasts into the nights air surely letting the neighbors know that a New Year had come. If some hadnt eaten enough, there would be sandwiches and snacks to eat. I recall an elderly friend of the family saying her tradition was to have sweet buns at midnight. The night would not be complete without the singing of Robert Burns Auld Lang Syne, which loosely translated means for the sake of old times. Your list of 2012 resolutions is posted somewhere and hopefully will be followed. Happy New Year! The best is yet to come! Barbara J. Gooding is a creative and historical writer from Hackensack. She is co author of Hackensack, A Pictorial History and Images of America-Hackensack. Her writing businesses include The Chameleons Pen and Lore to Legacy (www.loretolegacy.com). She may be contacted via The County Seat newspaper or bjgooding@gmail.com.Carol London LaForge, Bobbie Maroth, Paul and Margaret Van Ghendt and Carmen Nieves contributed to this story.
Teaneck Woman Donates Pet Masks

Bergen County towns. South Hackensack did not yet have one of these life-saving kits and I happily made my donation. Hopefully, many more people will do the same for their towns. Firefighters and ambulance personnel have a better chance at saving our beloved pets, when they have the oxygen, different sized masks and other pertinent equipment contained in these kits. A Lodi resident, who requested to remain anonymous, also recently donated a set of pet oxygen masks to the Lodi Fire Department on behalf of Companion Animal Advocates (CAA). To donate masks or for more information, visit www.CompanionAnimalAdvocates.org or call 201-706-7666.
Photo Courtesy: Christine Devereaux
South Hackensack Volunteer Ambulance Corps Chief Jim Riley and Murphy Eileen Carini, a resident of Teaneck, recently donated a set of pet oxygen masks to the South Hackensack Volunteer Ambulance Corps on behalf of Companion Animal Advocates (CAA). The donation was made in the name of Mae Napolitano, a longtime resident of South Hackensack who recently passed away. The masks come in three sizes for large, medium and small dogs/cats. These specially-sized masks will enable firefighters and emergency medical technicians to deliver oxygen to pets in need and in some cases save their lives. When a family member from South Hackensack recently passed away, I searched for a way to make a difference with my remembrance donation, said Carini. Flowers seemed like such a waste, lasting only a day or two. Then I saw an article about the efforts of Companion Animal Advocates and its goal to obtain pet rescue kits for all
Hackensack Recreation Baseball registration is now under way. Parents may sign up their children on the following Saturdays: Jan. 14, Jan. 21 and Jan. 28 from 1 to 7 p.m. at the Hackensack Recreation Center on Holt Street.
Baseball Season Around the Corner
P ASSAIC S TREET B ARBER S HOP R ELOCATED
FORMERLY WITH
AT
Main Street Barber Shop
Hospital Angels Make Rounds
Santa Tours Maywood Train Station
Photo Courtesy: Sheri Hensley
Pasqualina Bikoff, of Hackensack; Rosemarie Sorce, of Hackensack: Cono Spinelli, of South Hackensack; Emmitt Chang, a patient; Sherma Andrews, of Ridgewood; and Barbara Bush-Breen of Hackensack. Rosemarie Ro Sorce, a member of the Hackensack University Medical Center Board of Governors and Foundation Board of Trustees, along with some of her team of angels visited patients at the Joseph M. Sanzari Childrens Hospital at HUMC to spread holiday cheer on Dec. 19. Sorce, a Hackensack resident, visits the children several times a year on special occasions to help brighten their hospital stays. This time she brought holiday music, games, coloring books and hugs. late Heart Academy for Coach Steve Silver. She was twice named All-Big North United and earned third team All-County as a senior. Her team won back-to-back North Non-Public A State Championships her sophomore and junior years. OConnell helped the team to three consecutive league championships her sophomore through senior years. As a captain her senior year, she earned the Investors Savings Bank Academic Excellence Award and IHA Scholar Athlete Honors.
Photo Courtesy: Ed Kaminski
Maywood native Colleen OConnell, a member of the Vassar College womens basketball team, recently earned Liberty League Rookie of the Week honors as she helped Vassar to a 6-0 record with two wins. OConnell averaged 8.0 points per game, 9.5 rebounds per game, and 3.0 assists per game. In a 69-67 comeback win over Hunter College, OConnell posted a 12-point, 10-rebound double-double with three assists. This is her second award this season. OConnell lettered three years at Immacu-
Maywood Hoops Star Feted
Children were delighted to meet Santa at his annual visit to Maywood Station. Santa made a special visit to the Maywood Station Museum for the 10th annual Santa at Maywood Station event on Saturday, Dec. 10. Every child received a bag of treats courtesy of Myron Corporation, Operation Lifesaver, Atlas Model Railroad Company, Atlas O, LLC, PikoAmerica, the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railway and the Maywood Station Museum. Each child was also given a chance to win special raffle prizes including a BMW Roadster childs pedal car, which was won by Annabella Tucci. The Atlas O-Gauge Complete Train Set was won by Jabran Babar. The Atlas H.O. Scale Starter Train Set was won by Wei Zhang. A wooden train set was won by Luke Weisgerber. A zoo animal train set was won by Jayden Soto, and an alphabet train puzzle was won by Christian Bueno. Immediately before the event, the Military Transport Association ran a special NJ Operation Toy Train to Maywood Station where it stopped to collect donations of new, unwrapped toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots Foundation.
SPECIALIZING IN S TAIN R EMOVAL FOR W ET AND D RY C LEANING!
Main Street Hackensack

Lakeland Bank Donates $3K
BY JEROME LOMBARDO
2012 Will Be Year of Change
Chairmans Report
Happy New Year! 2012 is slated to be a banner year for Hackensacks downtown. During 2011, the Upper Main Alliance and its board worked diligently to implement and maintain changes throughout Main Street. We continued to keep the streets clean and inviting through our Clean Streets Program. We helped merchants improve their storefronts with faade grants, and we brought the community together through events such as the Summer Concert Series, the Hackensack Photo Courtesy: Julie Morrow Street Fair and the Holiday Tree Lighting CelBack row, Doug Cosgrove (Lakeland Bank), Julie Morrow and Robert Riccardi ebration. (YMCA), Glenn Greten and Richard Petouvis (Lakeland Bank), Nelson Louis and Most importantly, throughout the year Keith Zebroski (YMCA); and front row, YMCA Childcare students Ryan Thomas, and especially over the holidays our board Helen Lema, Angela Cirigliano, Aidan Morrow, Justin Oliver, Krishna Singh and was busy meeting and continuing to work Anthony Diaz. with the city on vital changes that are priming downtown Hackensack to be a center for The Y Childcare program is just one commerce and lifestyle. By spring 2012, we The YMCA of Greater Bergen County and Lakeland Bank are working together to program that benefits from donations made are anticipating the implementation of the make sure that everyone, regardless of age, to the Ys Strong Kids Campaign and we early phases of the new zoning changes to income or background, has the opportunity appreciate Lakeland Banks support, said to learn, grow and thrive. Richard Petouvis, Nelson Louis, president and CEO, HackenGlenn Greten and Doug Cosgrove of Lake- sack YMCA. Our company is strongly committed to land Bank recently presented the YMCA supporting the communities within our marin Hackensack with a $3,000 donation and took the opportunity to meet with some of ket area, said Richard Petouvis, senior vice the children who attend the YMCA Child- president, regional administrator, Lakeland care Center. Bank.
Main Street. These modifications will allow for more housing and improve commerce. Improvements to Main Street arent easy or quick tasks and we are asking that the residents of Hackensack stay with us as we work to fulfill our common goals. What can you do as a resident? Let our local representatives know of your support. Community support will be imperative as we try to move the plans for the downtown forward. Give us your input. Lets work together as a community to create a quality downtown. And finally stay informed. We recently hired a local Hackensack public relations and marketing firm, Prosperiti Partners, to work with local media to keep the public abreast of all developments. A thriving Downtown will raise property values and create rateables to help keep taxes stable! So welcome to 2012! Jerome Lombardo is the chairman of the Upper Main Alliance.
Valentines Gifts Right at Home

BY NOELLE FRIESON The holiday gift-giving season may be over but Feb. 14 is right around the corner. Another trip to the mall may send you over the edge so try going local on Main Street in Hackensack for Valentines Day gifts. Here are some shopping tips for your special someone. The best gifts are the ones that everyone can enjoy together. Main Street in Hackensack offers a plethora of intimate ethnic restaurants, making a gift card or a night out, a perfect gift. Casual Habana (125 Main St.) brings Cuba to Hackensack. The eatery offers an array of premium steaks, coconut shrimp and savory pulled pork that will impress any date. Tandoori Chef (260D Main St.), which has earned 4 out of 5 stars on Yelp.com, is an homage to India. Since both of these restaurants are BYOB, stop by Hackensack Wine and Liquors (159 Main St.) to pick up a trendy Australian Shiraz or a bubbly Italian Prosecco. Spice up your relationship at Play For Pleasure (250 Main St.). This tasteful adult boutique has an extensive line of lingerie in all sizes, couples-only games, massage oils and more. If your knight in shining armor loves a pickup game of basketball with the guys or plays on the company softball team try a gift that will keep him thinking of you while he has his play date with the boys. Battleground (166 Main St.) is a specialty high-end sneaker store. Men, you can never go wrong with a day of beauty for your lady. Main Street is a mecca for highlights, manicures and pedicures. With more than 20 hair and nail salons, shoppers have their choice of services for that special woman in their lives. Make an appointment at Santas Hair Salon (298 Main St.) or Xclusive Beauty (266 Main St.), both known for their beautiful blow-outs and glowing highlights. Lastly, if you get out of work on Feb. 14 and realize that you have totally forgotten to buy a gift, run into one of the several gift shops on Main Street. Archive Gift Shop (224 Main St.) sells sentimental cards and tokens of affection for last minute shoppers. For a list of all the shops on Main Street where one can shop on Valentines Day visit www.uppermain.org.
2012
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for hackensacks upper main alliance
201-498-1690
visit us at: www.uppermain.org
Maywood Santacade Travels Through Town
Paramus Catholic Tree Lighting
Photo Courtesy: Crista Vigeant
Photos Courtesy: Gail Vachon
On Christmas Eve, an entourage comprised of fire, police and first aid vehicles led Frosty and Santa on a tour through Maywood as part of the boroughs annual Santacade. Hundreds of children and adults gathered outside in the chilly weather to welcome the duo and catch some giveaways.
College Employees Collect Food
Students at Paramus Catholic High School celebrated the season during their annual Christmas Concert and Tree Lighting Ceremony, which was held at the school on Dec. 14. Nearly 150 students participated in the festive evening. Among the highlights were two new pieces performed by the 68-member PC Orchestra: A Christmas Fanfare, featuring PCs percussion and brass players, and A Wondrous Christmas, a cheerful medley featuring many all-time favorite Christmas songs. The PC Marching Band also performed Christmas on Parade, a medley arranged especially for the group. The 54 members of PCs Concert, Madrigal and Show choirs also entertained the crowd with a selection of Christmas carols. PCs 36-member Dance Ensemble a performed for the spirited audience, dancing two selections from a Nightmare Before Christmas, Carol of the Bells, and other holiday favorites. Following the show, Paramus Catholics Campus Ministry Team reenacted the Na-
tivity and presided over the lighting of the PC Christmas Tree. Students and guests stayed long into the evening to enjoy some holiday treats and fellowship, while the Concert and Madrigal choirs continued caroling.
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Photo Courtesy: Lori McCurley
Employees at Bergen Community Colleges Philip Ciarco Learning Center recently collected food to support those in need over the holidays. Pictured: Elizabeth Western, Amy Salomon, Paul Ragusa, the centers director, Jennifer Johnson-Rothman of the Center for Food Action, Ce Rosalia Guzman and Sandra Jimenez.
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Photo Courtesy: Fred Rohdieck
Members of the Paramus High School Prem1ers recently spread a bit of musical cheer at Seasons in Washington Township when the Paramus Rotary hosted its annual Holiday Luncheon.
Welcome to Cardboard City
Paramus Children Helping Those in Need
Photo Courtesy: Kevin Page
Photo Courtesy: Anna Tormey
On the evening of Nov. 21, a group of 85 Bergen Catholic High School students participated in the schools fourth annual Cardboard City event. Despite a steady rain, the students constructed temporary homes out of cardboard boxes and slept in them in order to experience the problems that homeless people face on a daily basis.
Principal Laverne OBoyle with her students with items collected. The students at Memorial School in Paramus were busy thinking of others this past holiday season. The students collected hats, gloves and coats for those in need. They organized a district-wide food drive and collected new toys to donate to the Joseph Sanzari Childrens Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center.
Proud to Pledge Allegiance
Visitation Academy Advent Retreat
Photo Courtesy: Paramus Elks Club
Angela Zisa, Lindita Tonuzi, Charles Fischetto and Courtney Alonzo. Each year, the Paramus Elks Club sponsors an essay contest for the boroughs students. This years theme was Why I Am Proud to Pledge Allegiance to Our Flag. The following grade level winners received a $50 U.S. Savings Bond: Courtney Alonzo, grade 5; Charles Fischetto, grade 6; Lindita Tonuzi, grade 7; and Angela Zisa, grade 8.
Photo Courtesy: Debbie Pagano
Gingerbread School Buddies

Students in Barbara Speros kindergarten class and Cindy Dugans fourth grade class at Ridge Ranch School in Paramus have become classroom buddies. They do many activities throughout the school year together. They most recently created gingerbread glyphs.
Eighth grade students of Visitation Academy in Paramus recently participated in an Advent Retreat. The retreat was presented by the Rev. Manuel Gallo, coordinator of the Youth Ministry at Don Bosco Preparatory High School in Ramsey, along with 10 of his stu-
Donations Support Feast
dents. The Retreat Team arrived at Visitation Academy and shared with Visitation students how to prepare their hearts for the birth of Jesus. The students enjoyed ice breakers, talks and songs and ended the day by celebrating the Eucharist together at Mass.
St. Peter Academy Holiday Showcase
Photo Courtesy: Linda Broek
Photo Courtesy: Ray Bauer
Khushi Vandra, Kyla Lowery and Adriano LaBruno.

Photo Courtesy: Patrick Brightman
With support from the Maywood Memorial School PTO, second graders participated in their annual Thanksgiving Feast complete with turkey donated by Maywood Marketplace and stuffing and mashed potatoes donated by the Oak Ale House.
Who Can Collect Most Food?
St. Peter Academy, the co-sponsored school of St. Peter the Apostle parish in River Edge and Our Lady Queen of Peace parish in Maywood, held its Christmas celebration on Dec. 14 featuring the reenactment of the birth of Jesus by the students.
The Hackensack Middle School Student Council recently sponsored a holiday food drive. The homeroom in each grade that donated the most items received a $25 gift card to Dunkin Donuts, and each student who donated items or helped to box or carry items on donation day was awarded Comet Coupons for his or her participation. At the end of the drive, the school donated almost 100 boxes of items to the Center for Food Action in Hackensack.
BY JULIANN WESTON
Abate Takes the Helm
Hillers School Holiday Concert
Interim Schools Superintendent Joseph Abate Jr. delivered a strong agenda during the Hackensack Board of Educations Dec. 20 meeting at Hackensack High School. The former Lyndhurst school district leader is replacing Raymond Gonzalez, who was also serving in an interim capacity before taking another job last month. Abates goals include the evaluation of all current systems and procedures, implementing new practices and smoothing the relationship between the administration and the public. Abate said he would like to schedule a public work session before each regular public meeting to allow members of the community a chance to be a part of the process. Hed like to restructure the meeting calendar to be holiday friendly. He suggested that all of the board members have their photos and individual email addresses posted on the districts Web site so that the parents can identify and communicate with them directly. Abate also made it clear that he is opposed to calling a single session day whenever there is inclement weather scheduled for the afternoon. My philosophy was and still is that once school is in session, were in. I believe strongly that the children are safer. Its dry and theyre supervised within our buildings and its certainly a better atmosphere than sending them out into the streets, Abate said. He said keeping the kids the full day also benefits parents who have to scramble to find someone to babysit and alleviates the possibility of kids being home alone or even locked out. Abate said he plans to approach the teachers union to make allowances for teachers
Photo Courtesy: Hackensack Board of Education
Superintendent Joseph Abate Jr. who travel long distances. Abate also suggested scheduling a combined school board-city council meeting in late winter so that both budgets could be discussed effectively. Abate said there are some immediate and urgent safety concerns that must be addressed in each school building and will be working closely with Detective Kenneth Martin to address them. He recommended setting up a central enrollment location for new residents to balance classroom numbers, starting a recycling program, honoring student achievements at board meetings, and, after visiting each school and finding that students were well-mannered, polite and orderly, he suggested launching a public relations campaign to show that students are doing great things. He encouraged parents to call his office and drop by the schools to see for themselves.
Photo Courtesy: Janet Shuler
Fanny Meyer Hillers School of Hackensack hosted its annual Winter Holiday Concert on Dec. 15. Pictured: Roseann Stuetz, vocal music teacher, with members of the Bell Ringers and Glee Club.
Felt Mice Bring Cheer
Hackensack High News

Music Department Awarded $10K The Hackensack High School Music Department won second prize and was awarded $10,000 in the Glee Give a Note Contest. HHS competed against more than 450 schools nationwide in the National Association for Music Education. Supporters from Hackensack, Maywood, South Hackensack and Rochelle Park cast more than 11,000 votes. For more information visit www. gleegiveanote.com. Quiz Bowl Team Among Top 16 On Dec. 10, the Hackensack High School Quiz Bowl team again competed in the North Jersey Academic Competition held at Leonia High School. This year, 68 teams from 34 different schools across New Jersey attended the competition. The Hackensack team, comprised of five students, finished in ninth place overall with 2,710 points, topping last years team score by more than 750 points. Once again, the team received a Top 16 trophy. This year, Hackensack was also awarded a gold standard certificate. The team is comprised of Michaela Staiano (captain), Tim Hoffman, Nancy Mannenbach, Morgan Johnson and Caleb Bayewu.
Photo Courtesy: West Brook Middle School
Workers Donate Birthday Parties
On Dec. 16, students at West Brook Middle School in Paramus created gifts and cards for children spending the holidays in the hospital. The fifth and eighth grade students worked together as buddies and created an art project that involved creating felt mice. The students were then able to add a candy cane which acted as the mouses tail. In the meanwhile, the sixth and seventh grade students worked hard to make cards for the children. The mice and cards, 345 of each, were distributed to patients at Valley and Hackensack University hospitals.
In Search of a Black Hat

Parkway Accepts Exxon Grant

Each year, employees at Hackensack City Hall donate gifts to be raffled off at the citys holiday party. This year, the employees, led by the dinner committee, changed things up. They chose to make a group donation to Tomorrows Childrens Fund at Hackensack University Medical Center to benefit children who would be spending the holidays at the hospital undergoing treatment for cancer and serious blood disorders. Charity begins at home, said Elisa Coccia, the citys tax collector and a member of the dinner committee. With so much need right here in Hackensack we decided to give back this year. Tomorrows Children, which was founded by parents of children who receive treatment at HUMC, provides a warm and loving environment for the kids and strives to re-
lieve families emotional and financial stress through various programs. The program also funds research. In addition to the dozens of toys that were donated by the city employees, each $25 donation will pay for a patients birthday party complete with cupcakes, favors and gifts. The city collected enough to fund 17 birthday parties plus two McDonalds gift cards and a $100 donation from the Coccia Foundation. According to Kathy Ambrose, administrative director, TCF, roughly 20 children were set to spend the holidays at the hospital. I want to thank the committee who put this program together, said Mayor Jorge Meneses. We are so fortunate and count our blessings. It is time to give back to those who are less fortunate including the children who will be spending their holidays in the hospital.
Photo Courtesy: Michele Hulahan
Photo Courtesy: Michele Hulahan
Preschoolers at Parkway School in Paramus recently went on a clothing hunt throughout the school as part of a lesson.
Parkway School in Paramus received a grant from the Exxon Mobil Educational Alliance program to support the schools math and science programs. Barbara Altenbach of Exxon Mobil worked with school officials to secure the grant.
YMCA Honors Student-Athletes
Elks Club No. 658 Throws Holiday Bash
Photo Courtesy: Charlotte Panny Photo Courtesy: Julie Morrow
Student athletes were feted by the YMCA of Greater Bergen County. For more than 45 years, the YMCA of Greater Bergen County in Hackensack has been sponsoring a banquet honoring Bergen County athletes as well as adults in the athletic and recreation world who have given exceptional leadership and guidance to local young people. The student-athletes recognized by the YMCA of Greater Bergen County, some who have earned up to 12 varsity Letters while also performing at the top of their classes academically, also give tirelessly to their communities and special charities. This years annual Sports Award Banquet was held on Nov. 22 at the Sheraton Mahwah. Among those honored was Stephen Mozia, a Hackensack High School student, who received the J. Barry Stanford Award; John Marut, a Maywood resident and student at Hackensack High, who also received the Stanford Award; and Kristina Meier, a Paramus High School student who received the Female High School StudentAthlete Award. This years event raised over $35,000, which is greatly needed in our community. With many parents out of work their family and children benefit from many Y programs, said Nelson Louis, YMCA president and CEO. For more information or to nominate an individual for 2012, contact Julie Morrow, communications and development director, 201-487-6600, ext. 206, or e-mail jmorrow@ymcagbc.org.
Santa posed with children at the Hackensack Elks Club. Dozens of local children gathered at the annual Christmas party at Hackensack Elks Lodge No. 658 on Linden Street. After lunch was served, one of Santas elves read The Night Before Christmas, and holiday cake was served as the kids recited their wish lists to Santa. Each child went home with copies of Spiderman and the Fantastic Four Make Hard Choices.
Hackensack Wins Major Victory

Continued from Page 1
dismissed. Overall, plaintiffs assertions against Garcia are not supported by the factual allegations in the amended complaint, but rather are set forth with conclusory statements to that effect, wrote Wigenton. Al-Ayoubi had originally demanded $1 million from the City of Hackensack for damages. City Attorney Joseph Zisa described the latest court action as another in a series of decisions by federal judges dismissing lawsuits which do not have merit. This clearly indicates that the citys position to not settle cases that are not believed are meritorious is the right position for the residents of the
City of Hackensack. The attorneys that the city has hired to defend these lawsuits are doing an exemplary job. This most recent result is proof of that. Mayor Jorge Meneses said he was very satisfied with this decision. The judge saw that the claim was baseless and ruled accordingly. It is a shame that a few disgruntled employees believe that if they sue the City we will bow to pressure from our political rivals to settle cases without any justification. Deputy Mayor Michael Melfi echoed Meneses sentiments. Our position has been to defend the city against all claims we believe do not have merit. This decision and other recent decisions support our ongoing position.
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201-587-1221
201-843-2300
*APR = annual percentage rate. The APRs shown for Home Equity include a discount of .50% for automatic payment from a Community Bank of Bergen County NJ checking account. This loan contains a variable rate feature. The APR will increase if at any time during the term the automatic payment deduction is discontinued. The APR shown is for our Fixed Rate Home Equity Loans up to Maximum of $200,000. Owner-occupied 1-4 family properties located in New Jersey. Loans given up to 75% of the appraised value. You must carry insurance on the property that secures the collateral. Flood insurance may be required. Title insurance is required for loan amounts over $125,000. Other third party fees may apply. No fees will be collected until after the borrower has received the GFE and TIL disclosures. This offer is not for purchase mortgages. Offer is subject to credit approval. Borrower must be of legal age to apply. APR is accurate as of 1/11/2012 and is subject to change at any time. Other rates and terms available.
www.CBBCNJ.com
Dining Out
Boardwalk Burgers, Fries Now Open in Hackensack Culinarians Tour Monroe College
Photo Courtesy: Anibal Galiana
Hackensack Mayor Jorge Meneses helps cut the ceremonial ribbon at Boardwalk Fresh Burgers and Fries. BY GAIL VACHON Remember the smell of the French fries that wafted along the boardwalks at the Jersey Shore and Marylands Eastern Shore? It was that wonderful vinegar which has made them so delicious. Well North Jersey residents no longer have to take a long drive to enjoy a bit of the summertime. Boardwalk Fresh Burgers and Fries is now open in Hackensack. On Dec. 7, lines of hungry customers lined up the restaurants newest location on West Pleasantview Avenue, inside the Stop and Shop plaza off Summit Avenue, for a grand opening celebration. The first 25 customers received a coupon book for a years worth of free burgers. Boardwalk was started in the early 1980s by brothers Dave and Fran DiFerdinando. There are now franchises coast to coast. The newest location is owned by former Hackensack residents Brian and Barbara Rodak. Members of the Hackensack Regional Chamber of Commerce welcomed the Rodaks to the business community by attending the grand opening along with city council members and other city officials. Unlike Five Guys Burgers, Boardwalk offers a wider variety of foods including hot dogs, salads, chicken tenders and black bean and vegetable burgers. Boardwalk prides itself on never freezing the burgers ground beef and offers its diners the choice of roll and cheese variety. The fries are fresh cut everyday and prepared in 100 percent peanut oil and served with the diners choice of toppings including the famous vinegar. Boardwalk Fresh Burgers and Fries is located at 370 West Pleasantview Ave. in Hackensack Visit BoardwalkFreshBurgersandFries.com
Hackensack High Schools culinary arts students recently visited Monroe College in New Rochelle, N.Y. The trip was organized by Chef Kelly Carroll, who leads Hackensacks program. The students visited the campus and were also treated to lunch and a step show.
Valentines Gift for the Ladies

Join Us For
THE
BIG GAME
COMPLIMENTARY
Half Time Buffet
Accolades for Lady Comets
Hackensack High School recently hosted the annual Fall Sports Coffee Hour/ Varsity Letter Presentation where the Lady Comets varsity soccer team emerged as the big winner. Jacklyn Allegretta was named All-State. Allegretta was also selected as First Team All-League along with Jasmine Cornett and Tianna Sylvestri. The Second Team All-League winners were Gemma Savage, Carmina Sison, Mary-Kate Lisi and Valentina Zito. Freshman Savannah LoVecchio received an honorable mention. The girls were picked by all the coaches of the teams which the Lady Comets played
during the fall 2011 season. The girls are coached by Tara Jakubik.
Fine Continental Cuisine Specializing in Fresh Seafood
Daily Specials Family Style Atmosphere Catering In-House & Off-Site Party Rooms Available Wi-Fi
Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner Reservations Accepted
107 Anderson St. Hackensack, NJ (201)489-4831
Community Calendar
AT THE LIBRARIES JOHNSON LIBRARY LIBRARY CLOSED: Jan. 16. GALLERY AND CASES: A Salute to Africa, featuring Ghana and Congo. LEADERSHIP HACKENSACK presented by the City of Hackensack and Fairleigh Dickinson University on Thursday evenings starting in April. No charge. Call 201343-4169 ext. 24. COMPUTER AND ESL WORKSHOPS Jan. 21 and 28 from 10:30 11:30 a.m. Hackensack residents only. HONORING MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. Jan. 13 at 2 p.m. with a movie. Call library for details. AFRICAN DANCE a fun demonstration and interactive participation. Jan. 14 at 3:30 p.m. Yahya Kamate with the Center for Modern Dance. Pre-registration required. FRIDAY AFTERNOON AT THE MOVIES Jan. 20 at 2 p.m. Call the library for film information. BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. at Javas Brewin. The book will be The Road by Cormac McCarthy. Call 201-343-4781. SLEEPY TIME TALES Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. Bedtime stories for the younger set. PJs and teddy bears welcome. PRESCHOOL STORYHOURS For ages 3 and up on Wednesdays 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays 10 a.m. Pre-registration required. ARTS AND CRAFTS Jan. 18 at 3:30 p.m. for grades 2 and up. Stewart the Scarved Snowman. Pre-registration required. MOTHER GOOSE TIME for children under 3 on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 11:15 a.m. STORIES AROUND THE WORLD at 3:30 p.m. for grades K 3 with folk and fairy stories. SATURDAY MOVIES Jan. 14, 21, 28 at 2 p.m. Call the childrens desk for titles. BOOK BINGO Jan. 13 at 2:30 p.m. VIDEO GAME CLUB Jan. 19 at 3:30 p.m. in the Junior Department. Grades 4 6 only. No pre-registration required. KIDS TECH TIME Jan. 25 from 3:30 4:30 p.m. with mini courses in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and basic computer skills. Grades 3 5. TEEN TUESDAYS AT JPL Open to students in grades 7 12 only. Jan. 17, 3:15 4:30 p.m. with Dance Dance Revolution, Internet and board games. Jan. 24, 3:15 4:30 p.m. with Mario Kart, Internet and board games. Jan. 31, 3:15 4:30 p.m. with Street Fighter, Internet and board games. No advance sign-up necessary. Bring your library card and/or permission slip for Internet access. PLAYAWAYS available for MP3 players. Ask how to check them out. SCHEDULE OF BOARD MEETINGS 2012 Open public meetings take place on the premises of the Main Library, 274 Main St., on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. Feb. 14, Mar. 13, Apr. 10, May 8, June 12, Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11. Library hours: Adult: Monday - Thursday from 9 a.m. 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Junior Department: Monday Tuesday 9 a.m. 9 p.m. Wednesday - Thursday 9 a.m. 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Registration is required for all special programs. Facebook.com/ JohnsonPublicLibrary. Call 201-343-4169 ext. 14 or visit Hackensack.bccls.org. MAYWOOD LIBRARY AROMATHERAPY, A TIME HONORED MODALITY presented by Jan Jeremias on Jan. 14 at 2 p.m. Lecture and free samples. FROST KINGS CONCERT presented Jan. 28 at 2 p.m. with swing, R&B and blues. MORNING BOOK DISCUSSION second Friday of the month, 11 12:30 p.m. EVENING BOOK DISCUSSION first Thursday of the month, from 7 8 p.m. CHILDRENS PROGRAMS Toddler Time Tuesdays at 2 p.m. for ages 2 and up. StoryTime for Pre-Schoolers, Wednesdays at 11 a.m. for ages 4 and up. Saturdays for All Ages at 11 a.m. Free program for Maywood residents. Story times Tuesday at 11 a.m., Thursday at 2 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m. MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY ACTIVITY Jan. 12 at 3:30 p.m. for ages 7 and up. Registration required. KARAOKE PIZZA PARTY Jan. 19 at 3:30 p.m. for ages 7 and up. Registration required. HIGH SCHOOL AGE ARTISTS contact the library to showcase your work. MAYWOOD LOCAL HISTORY ROOM By appointment only; for group tours call Carol Dass at 201845-8830 or visit maywoodhistory.com. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. 5:30 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1:30 4:30 p.m. Call 201-845-2915. PARAMUS LIBRARY ACTIVITIES open to Paramus residents only. LADIES NIGHT OUT BOOK CLUB Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. The book will be The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender. BOOK DISCUSSION Jan. 20 with brown bag lunch at 12:30 p.m. The book will be The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox by Maggie OFarrell. Discussion at 1 p.m. Coffee and tea provided. STORYTIMES: for Paramus residents at Main Branch: Baby Lapsit for 0 12 months with caregiver, Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. Little Bookworms for walkers-18 months with caregiver Thursdays at 10:45 a.m. Teeny Time for ages 12 24 months with caregiver, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9:45 a.m. Tell Me a Story for ages 2 3.5 with caregiver on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Picture Book Parade for ages 3.5 5 on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. and Thursdays at 1:15. Reid Branch: Tell Me a Story for ages 2 3.5 with caregiver on Tuesdays or Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Picture Book Parade for ages 3.5 5 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at four different times. Registration required on all. PAJAMA STORYTIME Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. Next meeting: Mar. 13. KOREAN STORYTIME on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Next meeting: Feb. 4, Mar. 3. GUNG HAY FAT CHOY a Chinese New Year Party for grades K 4 Feb. 3 at 3:45 p.m. HAPPY VALENTINES DAY from grades K 3 at 3:45 p.m. on Feb. 9. FUN FRIDAY a Valentines Party for grades 3 5 at 1:15 p.m. on Feb. 10. FOURTH GRADE FEVER VALENTINES PARTY Feb. 10 at 4 p.m. WINTER SCHOOL BREAK Feb. 20 at 3 p.m. movie for all ages. Feb. 21 at 3 p.m., Mardi Gras Masks. Feb. 22 at 3 p.m. George Washingtons Birthday Celebration; Drop-in Preschool Craft from 11 a.m. 4 p.m. Feb. 24 at 3 p.m. Jackie Robinson Baseball Craft. READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY for ages 4 grade 4 Mar. 2 at 3:45 p.m. At Reid Branch on Mar. 2 from 3 5 p.m. WOMENS HISTORY MONTH for grades K 4 Mar. 8 at 3:45 p.m. featuring Fabulous First Ladies. VINCENT VAN GOGHS BIRTHDAY Mar. 30 at 3:45 p.m. for grades K 4. RAVENOUS READERS on the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. for grades 4 5. Next meeting: Feb. 6, Mar. 5. PAGE TURNERS on Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m. for grades 2 3. Next meeting: Feb. 14. BETWEEN: after-school crafts and cooking program for grades 5 7 on Thursdays. Jan. 17, Feb. 7. AFTER SCHOOL ADVENTURE CRAFTS at both Main and Reid on Thursdays. TEEN EVENTS: TAB Bake Sale on Feb. 14 from 2:30 5 p.m. Wrap bracelets on Mar. 6 and Hunger Games Challenge for grade 7 and up only Mar. 9 from 6 8 p.m. REID BRANCH: After School Bingo, Fridays for children ages 4 through grade 6. Drop-in Movie Matinee every Tuesday. Wii days on Mondays for grades 1 5. Arts and Crafts on Thursdays. LET IT SNOW a Snowman Craft on Jan. 18 from 3:30 5 p.m. for all ages. VALENTINES CARD WORKSHOP for grades K 4 after-school on Feb. 9, 10. TEEN WEDNESDAYS AT REID from 3:30 5 p.m. with Cooking Club, Teen Crafts, Wii Games, and Rock band 2. Check branch for dates. TEEN EVENTS ESL Intermediate Classes Open to All Bergen County Residents offered Mondays and Thursdays from 7:30 9 p.m. starting. Free with Paramus residents having priority. Registration required. Call 201599-1305. Main Library at 116 E. Century Rd. Monday Thursday, 9:30 a.m. 9 p.m. - Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 5 p.m. The Reid Branch at 239 W. Midland Ave. Monday 1 9 p.m. Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. 6 p.m. Call 201-599-1300 or visit paramuslibrary.org. ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Jan. 13 15 LEONIA Theater on the Edge with seldom-seen works by wellknown playwrights at the Civil War Drill Theatre. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. $20, $18/ seniors and students. Visit leoniaplayers.org or 201-9609606. Jan. 14 TEANECK Poetry Readings and Poetry Slam in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. presented by the Puffin Cultural Forum, 20 Puffin Way, at 6:30 p.m. for poets and 7 p.m. for show. $5. Visit puffinculturalforum.org or call 201836-3499. Jan. 14 Feb. 4 ORADELL Modern Orthodox presented by The Bergen County Players at the Little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Rd. Ticket prices $19/Friday and Saturday and $16/ Sunday. Sales hotline 201-262-0515. Jan. 18 ENGLEWOOD Chorus Auditions and Casting for Extras held at the Bergen Family Life Center, 44 Armory St., at 6:30 p.m. Call 201-886-0561 to schedule an appointment. Jan. 21 TEANECK The Warmth and Other Suns read by actors Rae C. Wright, Jeffrey Joseph, and Ghana Leigh with discussion to follow presented by the Puffin Cultural Forum, 20 Puffin Way, at 8 p.m. $5. Visit puffinculturalforum.org. Jan. 20, 21 RUTHERFORD Auditions for Bye Bye Birdie presented by the Rutherford Theatre Company, at the Presbyterian Parish House, 32 Ridge Rd., on Jan. 20 from 6 - 9 p.m. and on Jan. 21 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Be prepared to sing and read a few lines of dialogue. Headshots, resumes and sheet music are welcome but not necessary. Visit rtconj.com. Jan. 22 TEANECK TCC Goes Wii winter concert with the Teaneck Community Chorus at Teaneck High School at 3 p.m. Call 201-489-5695. Jan. 28 TEANECK O Wholly Night and Other Jewish Solecisms performed by Obie-Winner Deb Margolin at the Puffin Cultural Forum, 20 Puffin Way, at 8 p.m. $10. Visit puffinculturalforum.org or call 201-836-3499. Feb. 3 HACKENSACK 2012 Tour of Light: Children of Uganda presented at First Presbyterian Church, 64 Passaic St., at 7:30 p.m. $20. Visit uccf.org. Feb. 3 SUFFERN, NY Suzanne Vega in Concert at Rockland Community College, Cultural Arts Theater, 145 College Rd. at 8 p.m. Tickets $35 - $45 in advance. Call 866-811-4111 or visit artsrock.org. Feb. 3 PARAMUS An Evening with Groucho staring Frank Ferrante at Bergen Community College Ciccone Theatre. For complete information call 201-447-7428 or visit tickets. bergen.edu. Feb. 4 FAIR LAWN Tripping Lily with Runa presented by Hurdy Gurdy Folk Music Club, at the Fair lawn Community Center, 10-10 20th St. at 8 p.m. Tickets $15, $12/members. Part of a fournight special concert series celebrating 30 years of the Hurdy Gurdy. Buy three nights and get the fourth night free. Visit hurdygurdyfolk.org. or call 201-384-1325. Feb. 11, 12 RUTHERFORD Love Letters presented by the GFWC Womans Club of Rutherford at 201 Fairview Ave. Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. for $45 with buffet dinner included. Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. for $20. Visit rtconj.com. Feb. 18 March 10 ORADELL Last of the Red Hot Lovers presented by the Bergen County Players at the Little Firehouse Theatre, 298 Kinderkamack Rd. Ticket prices $19/Friday and Saturday and $16/Sunday. Sales hotline 201-262-0515. BUSINESS AND NETWORKING Every Thursday HACKENSACK Hackensack Rotary Club meets at Rudys, 107 Anderson St., Thursdays at 12:15 p.m. Focus on community service and information through weekly programs. Contact Amanda Missey, membership chairwoman, at 201-281-8587 or amissey@ bergenvolutneers.org. HACKENSACK Regional Chamber of Commerce Events: Jan. 19, InterChamber Networking with Paramus at FDU Rothman Center, 100 University Plaza Dr., at 5:30 p.m. Mens basketball at 7 p.m. $20/members, $30/non-members. Jan. 24, Breakfast and Networking featuring health topics for the Sandwich Generation from 8:30 10 at CareOne at Wellington. $20/members, $25/non-members. Feb. 9, 6 9:30 p.m. Beefsteak Dinner at Elan in Lodi with the Boys and Girls Club and the Chamber. $50/dinner, beer and wine. Cash bar available. 201-489-3700 or visit hackensackchamber.org. PARAMUS Chamber of Commerce Events: Jan. 18 Breakfast and Networking at Bergen Community College from 8 9:30 a.m. in TEC 128. Guest Matthew Goerke, Americas Memory Master. $15. Call 201-261-3344 or visit paramuschamber.com. MEADOWLANDS Meadowlands Regional Chamber events: Jan. 19, monthly membership meeting at 8 a.m. Jan. 24, Contractor and Building Services Committee breakfast. Jan. 26, 27, 2012 Walk to Washington. Feb. 9, Memory Training Seminar. Visit meadowlands.org. CLASSES FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN Mondays HACKENSACK Citizenship Classes at the Johnson Library from 10 11 a.m. Call 201-343-4169 ext. 21. HACKENSACK Internet Classes offered by the Johnson Public Library. Hackensack residents only. Call for details. 201-343-4781. Thursdays HACKENSACK Argentine Tango Classes Thursdays from 8:30 10 p.m. at Center for Modern Dance Education, 84 Euclid Ave. $20/person. Call 201-444-2249 or visit 2fortango.org. Saturdays TEANECK Salsa Aerobic Dance Classes with dancer/choreographer Donay at ClubFit, 444 Cedar Lane, from noon 1 p.m. For men and women, no partners required. $10/person. Call 201-894-0138. Fourth Sunday MAYWOOD Square Dancing presented by Maywood Recreation and FAD (Fun at Dancing) held at the Maywood Senior Recreation Center from 7:30 9:30 p.m. Free. Children first grade and older may attend with an adult. First and third Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Call Jim at 201-712-1853 squaredance2@yahoo.com. Starting January TENAFLY Computer Learning Center offers classes in Computer Fundamentals, Computer Level I and II, Microsoft Word 2007, Digital Photography and MS Excel at the Kaplan JCC on the Palisades, 411 E. Clinton Ave. Call 201-5697900, ext. 309 or visit jccotp.org. Feb. 19 HACKENSACK Salsa, Sabor y Salud Free class. Meets Mondays from 6 7 or Sundays from noon 1 p.m. for children and adults to learn healthy lifestyle. Adult class in Spanish; childrens class in English. Contact the YMCA, 360 Main St., or call 201-487-6600 ext 226. LITTLE FERRY Gymnastics Classes offered by the American Sokol, 14 Garden St., for all ages. Tots for boys and girls ages 4, 5 on Tuesday evenings from 6 6:45. Gym for boys and girls ages 6 12 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 8 p.m. Teens on Thursdays from 8 9 p.m. Registration and fee information call 201-641-1626. LECTURES AND INFORMATION Jan. 11, 27 PARAMUS Blood Pressure and Diabetes Screenings presented by the Paramus Board of Health at Borough Hall on Jan. 11 from 1 3 p.m. An appointment is necessary. Residents may drop in on Jan 27 from 9:30 11 a.m. without an appointment. Call 201-265-2100 ext. 615, 618. Jan. 14, 15 PARAMUS Blood Donors Will Receive Movie Tickets when donating on Jan. 16, 18 from 8 a.m. 6 p.m. or Jan. 17 from 11:30 a.m. 8 p.m. at the Community Blood Services, 970 Linwood Ave. Make an appointment at 201-251-3703. Jan. 16 - 18 PARAMUS Blood Donors Will Receive Auto Emergency Shovel when donating on Jan. 14, 15 from 8 a.m. 1 p.m. at the Community Blood Services, 970 Linwood Ave. Make an appointment at 201-251-3703. Jan. 18 HACKENSACK Mentoring Youth Program presented by the Volunteer Center of Bergen County at 64 Passaic St. starts on Jan. 18 from 7 9:30 p.m. This is a 6-week program. Call 201489-9454 ext. 121 or visit bergenvolunteers.org. ORGANIZATIONS Third Sunday ROCHELLE PARK Pancake Breakfast from 8 11:30 a.m. Sponsored by the American Legion Post 170, 33 W. Passaic St. $4/adults, under 6/free. Call 201-843-9683 or visit alpost170.us. MAYWOOD Electronic Bingo in addition to paper bingo and pull tabs for instant wins at Our Lady Queen Of Peace, 400 Maywood Ave. Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. doors open at 5:30 p.m. Breaks for smokers. Coffee, soda, food and snacks are sold. 201-845-9566. Jan. 17 WOODRIDGE Hackensack Blue and Gold Beefsteak held at the Fiesta at 8 p.m. Tickets are $50. Call 201-906-1607. SCHOLARSHIPS Through Jan. 15 PARAMUS Ena Po-Po Lue Scholarship an opportunity for women returning to school at Bergen Community College. $500 can be used for continuing education or a degree program at BCC. Must have financial need and describe employment goals. Call 201-447-7117 or e-mail BCCFoundation@bergen.edu. SCHOOLS Feb. 7, 8, 9 ROCHELLE PARK Kindergarten registration for 2012 2013 school year held at Midland Avenue School. Parents should bring childs birth certificate and immunization records. It is not necessary to bring children. Physical exam for child must be completed by a private physician by opening of school year. Parents must have proof of residency by presenting deed, signed lease or affidavit and utility bill. Children must be 5 on or before Oct. 1, 2012. Forms available at rp.bergen.org. May 24 PARAMUS Career Day sponsored by the Paramus Rotary at Paramus High School between 8 8:15 a.m. for student pickup. Career Day culminates with luncheon at Seasons Restaurant in Washington Township. Businesses or Continued on Page 15
Community Calendar
Continued from Page 14 volunteers interested in participating call 201-261-7800 ext. 3110. SENIORS MAYWOOD The Golden Age Club of Maywood meets the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at the Maywood Senior/Recreation Center, Duvier Place, at 1 p.m. New members welcome, must be Maywood residents 55 or older. Dues are now payable, $20. Call 201-845-9215. MAYWOOD Senior Citizens Club of Maywood meets every first and third Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. (first meeting is business and second is social) at the Maywood Senior/ Recreation Center on Duvier Place. $15/dues due. Feb. 15, Variety Show, if interested stay after Jan. 18 meeting. Feb. 22, Mario Lanza at the Fiesta. $49, non-members welcome. May 24 June 3 Black Hills of South Dakota trip. Deposit by Feb. 17. Non-members welcome. For membership information, call 201-843-1061. For trip information call 201-843-1061. Second Thursday PARAMUS Paramus AARP Chapter 3834 has opened its membership to new members. The Paramus area includes the surrounding towns. Meeting at the Cipolla Senior Center at 97 Farview Ave. held 10 months of the year. Call Lou at 201-261-2068. Third Thursday HACKENSACK St. Francis Socialites meets every third Thursday at 7 p.m. at St. Francis Church Hall, 50 Lodi St. New members welcome. Call 201-342-5785. Second and Fourth Wednesdays PARAMUS Joseph Cipolla Paramus Senior No. 1 Club located at 93 Farview Ave. Meetings at noon. Strictly a social agenda: cards, trips entertaining programs, fun meetings and informative speakers. Call Jim at 201-845-9310. ROCHELLE PARK Rochelle Park Senior Citizens meet on the second and fourth Thursdays at the Senior Center at the municipal complex at 151 W. Passaic St. at 1 p.m. Rochelle Park residents over 55 are welcome to join. Dues $15/year. For information, call Mitzi at 201-843-9243. SOUTH HACKENSACK The Senior Citizens meet the first Thursday of the month, at 1 p.m. Bingo on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. 201-4409032. Second Friday HACKENSACK AARP Chapter 418 Meeting 12:30 p.m. at the Hackensack Recreation Center, 116 Holt St. For information call 201-489-2585. HACKENSACK Americas Unidas Multicultural Senior Center activities at 101 Hudson St. Center open Monday Through Friday from 8 a.m. 4 p.m. Hot lunch served daily at noon Monday Friday. Mondays and Wednesdays, Muscle Training at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays, Belly Dancing at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Arthritis Exercise at 9:30 a.m. These classes are free of charge. 201-336-3320. TOWN NEWS MAYWOOD Annual Schedule of Open Public Meetings to be held in the Council Chambers on the second floor of 15 Park Ave. Work Sessions are on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. Jan 10. Feb. 14. Mar. 13. Apr. 10. May 8. June 12. July 10. Aug. 14. Sept. 11. Oct. 9. Nov. 13. Dec. 11. Council meeting will be held on the fourth Tuesday at 8:15 p.m. and preceded by a work session at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 24. Feb. 28. Mar. 27. Apr. 24. May 22. June 26. July 24. Aug. 28. Sept. 25 Oct. 23. Nov. 27. Dec. 18. Call 201-845-2900. MAYWOOD Maywood Schools YES TEAM meeting Jan. 17 at 6:45 p.m. at the Maywood Avenue School Media Center to education the community on the school budget and plan events dealing with promotion of the corresponding budget vote. E-mail tcon717@aol.com. PARAMUS Board of Shade Tree & Parks Commission meetings held the second Wednesday of each month except for July and August at the Life Safety and Municipal Services Building at 7:30 p.m. except for Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. Jan. 11, Feb. 8, Mar. 14, Apr. 11, May 9, June 13, July 25, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14, Dec. 12. PARAMUS Board of Health regular meeting at 8 p.m. and work sessions at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 23, Feb. 27, Mar. 26, Apr. 23, May 21, June 25, July 23, Sept. 24, Oct. 22, Nov. 19, Dec. 17. Call 201-265-2100. HACKENSACK Board of Education Special meeting Jan. 17 at 6:30 p.m. Padovano Center, 191 Second St. Open to public and then closed session regarding personnel matter relating to the superintendent search. Visit hackensackschools.org or call 201-646-8000. HACKENSACK 2012 City Council Meeting Schedule held in the City Hall Council Chambers. Jan. 9, 7 p.m., COW. Jan. 17, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. Feb. 6, 7 p.m. COW. Feb. 7, 7 p.m. Council. Feb. 21, 6:30 COW, 8 P.M., Council. Mar. 5, 7 p.m. COW. Mar. 6, 7 p.m. Council. Mar. 20, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. Apr. 2, 7 p.m. COW. Apr. 3, 7 p.m. Council. Apr. 17, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. May 7, 7 p.m. COW. May 8, 7 p.m. Council. May 22, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. June 4, 7 p.m. COW. June 11, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. June 26, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. July1 TBD Reorganization. July 16, 7 p.m. COW. July 17, 7 p.m. Council. Aug. 20, 7 p.m. COW. Aug. 21, 7 p.m. Council. Sept. 4, 6:30 COW, 8 p.m. Council. Sept. 10, 7 p.m. COW. Sept. 24, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. Oct. 2, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. Oct. 15, 7 p.m. COW. Oct. 16, 7 p.m. Council. Nov. 8, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. Nov. 19, 7 p.m. COW. Nov. 20, 7 p.m. Council. Dec. 3, 7 p.m. COW. Dec. 4, 7 p.m. Council. Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m. COW, 8 p.m. Council. Call 201-646-3901. WORSHIP Ongoing TEANECK Temple Emeth at 1666 Windsor Rd. Shabbat Music Service at 8 p.m. the third Friday of the month. Family Shabbat first Friday evening. Tot Shabbat at 9:30 a.m. Jan. 14. Saturday services at 10:30 a.m. Torah study, Saturdays, from 9 10:15 a.m. Speak, Laugh and Enjoy Yiddish, Mondays from 10:45 a.m. noon. Words of Passion, Poems of Prayer: A Study of the Psalms, lunch and learn series on Wednesdays from noon 1 p.m. Call 201-833-1322 or visit emeth.org. Ongoing TEANECK Jewish Center of Teaneck Jan. 17, Feb. 21 at 12:30 p.m. New Beginnings special lunch and a surprise movie. Lunch reservations a must at 201-837-3791. The Daily Minyan/Services with mechitzah are at 7:15 a.m. and 7 p.m. Visit the Centers web site, www.jcot.org and also follow the Jewish Center of Teaneck on Facebook. To receive the centers weekly e-mail blast and monthly e-mail newsletter call the center office, 201.833.0515, ext. 200. Jan. 29 MAYWOOD Goodbye Holland documentary film about antiSemitism with background information with synagogue member Peter Cohen at the Reconstructionist Temple Beth Israel, 34 Magnolia Ave., at 3 p.m. $5. Refreshments will be served. RSVP by Jan. 26 to 201-845-7550 ext. 1.
Crossword
Answers on Page 17
Across 1. 100 lbs. 4. Filling station filler 7. The car, affectionately 10. How exciting! 11. Astern 12. Not for love __ money 13. Former coin of France 14. Monetary unit of Romania 15. Way back when 16. Tree that is a common street name 17. Possess 18. Beanie Babies for example 19. Half man half mechanical 21. Ancient alphabetic character
22. Sierra ___ 24. Ribald 27. Tons and tons 31. Thrilla in Manila participant 32. Trouble 33. Yodeling mountain 34. Herd of seals 35. Time zone basis 36. .001 inch 37. Big gorilla 38. Comics cry 39. Parents assoc. 40. Buddhist branch 41. CSI stuff 42. ____ the table Down 1. Trig. term 2. Like a fleece
3. Rule of ___ 4. Aplenty 5. Cruises code red movie? 6. Phaser setting 7. All messed up 8. Wrestler, Hulk 9. Destroy by disintegration 20. Outmoded 21. Cub opponent 23. Canadian tribe member 24. Capital of Bolivia 25. Marry in haste 26. Swell 28. Illuminations 29. Blue bloods 30. Slapping sound 32. Matured
Chamber Events
The Hackensack Regional Chamber of Commerce Inter-Chamber consortium and Fairleigh Dickinson University Athletics are hosting the January Multi-Chamber Networking and Basketball event at 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 19 at the Stratis Lounge of the Rothman Center at FDU in Hackensack. For more information, call 201-489-3700. The Committee of the Hackensack Regional Chamber of Commerce and CareOne At Wellington are hosting a Networking Breakfast and Learn program entitled Services Available for the Sandwich Generation: Whats Out There? The event will be held from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on Jan. 24 at CareOne, 301 Union St., Hackensack, 201487-4900. RSVP and payment due by Jan. 20. For more information, call 201-4893700. The Hackensack Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Boys and Girls Club on Lodi-Hackensack are hosting an evening of food, fun and comedy on Feb. 9. The Children and Community Beefsteak Dinner will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Elan, 111 Route 46 West, Lodi, 973-777-0503. For more information, call 201-489-3700. The Hackensack Regional Chamber of Commerce will hold an Indoor Moonlight Picnic on Wednesday, March 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Lodi Moose Lodge No. 1971, 215 Charles St., Hackensack. Proceeds will fund special programs for business members and scholarships for local students. Information is available by visiting www. hackensackchamber.org, 201-489-3700 or e-mail chamberhacknj@aol.com.
Sudoku
Each Sudoku Puzzle consists of a 9 x 9 grid that has been subdivided in grids of 3 x 3 squares. To solve the puzzle each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
The County Seat - September - Page 15
Padovano Leading Maywood

Classifieds
One-room office, Hackensack area, great private location, on-site parking, use of conference room, printer, copier, fax machine, Internet access. Separate entrance in beautifully renovated mixeduse building. Ideal for attorney or small business. Call 201-488-6010. Office space available one block from Bergen County Court House. Parking on site. 1-, 4- and 6-room offices. Call 201-341-1851. Joan is looking to work and will provide complete health care for the for homebound or elderly, flexible hours. Call 201-390-6213 or 201-364-3797. Reliable worker to clean homes daily. Se habla espaol. Call Amelia at 973479-6303.
Ive been around a lot of these people who have been doing a good work here for many years, Padovano said. I was a planning board attorney for 13 years, Ive been around Maywood a lot. I was concerned about the way things were going. Meglio said he was looking forward to serving on the board under Padovanos leadership. He has a tremendous energy and savvy about him, especially in thinking outside the box. He has a plan to increase business and ratables and run a fiscally conservative government. One of Padovanos first projects will be to create a streetscapes project on Maywood Avenue in the southern part of Maywood to improve business and generate revenue. We have a commercial district, and I want to get (business owners) involved in streetscapes. I want to make sure that area is living up to its highest potential. We have to find ways to bring money in and make sure that our tax base is stabilized and not raise taxes year after year. It was the high taxes in Maywood that drove Meglio to run for office. I saw an increase in property taxes over and over, said Meglio, a psychiatrist and the Director of Mental Health for the Essex County
For Rent
Photo Courtesy: Michael Cohen
Maywood Mayor Gregg Padovano and Councilmen Dr. Frank Meglio and Al Ballerini stand for the Pledge of Allegiance before the meeting. Department of Corrections. The services were not improving, and when I looked into it, there was an increase in the budget, and taxes went up for six or seven years. People were moving out, or they couldnt move into Maywood. I wanted to do something to stabilize it. Ballerini, who has served on the planning board for the past 11 years, said he was excited about this new opportunity. I think there was a lack of vision into what the governing body was trying to achieve. People saw taxes going up, and they never understood why. I want to bring that accountability back. In regular meeting business, the council appointed Councilwoman Marianne Auriemma as liaison to the Department of Public Works, Buildings and Grounds; Savage as liaison for finances; Councilman Adrian Febre to fire services; and Fleischmann to general services. Ballerini will be the liaison for public safety, while Meglio will be the liaison for recreation. Padovano also swore in a crew of special police officers, volunteer firefighters, fire police officers and members of the first aid squad.
Services
Help Wanted
Call (201) 488-5795 to place your classied ad
397 Union Street Hackensack, NJ 07601 201-487-1010
G. omas Gentile Senior Director

NJ Lic. 3033
Joseph Gentile Director

NJ Lic. 4279
CAROLINE MALTESE DE BLASIO, a lifelong resident of Hackensack, passed away on Nov. 26, 2011 at Regent Care Center at the age of 95. Prior to retiring, she was a finisher at Iuratos Bridal Shop in Hackensack. She was a parishioner of St. Francis R. C. Church of Hackensack. Beloved wife of the late John De Blasio. Devoted mother of John De Blasio Jr. and his wife Joan. Loving grandmother of John III, Gina, Benni and Christy. Cherished great-grandmother of Brianna, Kiara, Collin, Sullivan, Travis and Riley. LAWRENCE PEDONE passed away peacefully Nov. 27, 2011 at the age of 80. Born in Hackensack, where he lived most of his life, he lived in Toms River for four years and then Highlands Ranch, Colo., for three years. Larry was a Hackensack businessman for many years. He was a parishioner of St. Francis R. C. Church of Hackensack. Beloved husband of the late Barbara Rose (ne Steele). Devoted father of Patricia Devine and her husband Daniel, Vincenzo Pedone, and Barbara-Anne Flanagan and her husband John. Cherished grandfather of Vincenzo, Serafina, Kaitlin, Christina, Jason, Jeff, Scott and Michael. Adoring great-grandfather of Samantha and Jillian. AIDA MELI (ne Cannavacciuolo), of Hackensack and Hewitt, passed away on Dec. 2, 2011 at the age of 94. Prior to retiring, she had worked as a seamstress for Gluckin Bra Factory in Hackensack. She was a parishioner of St. Francis R.C. Church in Hackensack. Beloved wife of the late Salvatore Meli (1992). Aida is survived by many nieces and nephews. JUAN DORIA, of Hackensack, passed away peacefully on Dec. 4, 2011 at the Hackensack Hospital Hospice at the age of 84. Prior to retiring, he was a machine operator for Micro Machine Corporation of Little Ferry. He was predeceased by his wife Alicia (ne Suarez), who died in 1999. JOSEPH CARMEN MAZZA, of Phoenix, formerly of Hackensack, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Dec. 8, 2011 at the Eckstein Center in Phoenix at the age of 66. Prior to retiring earlier this year, he was a real estate broker and owned West Star Real Estate Management Co. in Arizona. Previously he owned Mazza-Buono Real Estate of Hackensack for more than 20 years. Beloved son of the late Carmen and Jennie Rinaldi Mazza. Devoted father of Erin ONeill and Shawn Oliver of Phoenix, Alison Mazza of Manahawkin and Daniel and Bonnie Mazza of Tempe, Ariz. Cherished grandfather of Braden and Natalie Oliver. Dearest brother of the late Mary Ann Mihalik. Adored cousin of Jody Pasqua of Little Ferry. MARIE FEORANZ-ZINZI passed away peacefully on Dec. 9, 2011 at Hackensack University Medical Center at the age of 84. A lifelong resident of Hackensack, Marie received her Bachelors degree in mathematics from Davis and Elkins College and a Masters degree in mathematics education from New York University. She was a senior editor of mathematics for Holt, Rinehart and Winston and was a high school mathematics teacher at the Lodi, River Dell and Tenafly school systems. Marie was a devout member of Holy Trinity R.C. Church in Hackensack, treasurer of the Trinity Leisure Club for several years, and a member of the Rosary Society. Devoted daughter of the late Sarah and Frank Feoranz. Dearest sister of the late Frank Feoranz, Sarah Manzo and Anna Condon. Adoring aunt of Deborah Feoranz-Sudol, Denise Stabile, the late Frank Feoranz Jr., Joseph Manzo, William Feoranz and James Manzo. Great aunt to Desiree Pentz, Julianna Manzo and Jessica Manzo. Loving stepmother to Jeanne Earl and Patricia Rambowski. ANNE SORAYA SASSINE, of Hackensack, passed away on Dec. 9, 2011 at her home at the age of 53. She was born in Portau-Prince, Haiti, and came to the United States in 1968, settling in New York and lived in Hackensack for 10 years. She was a teacher at the Thurgood Marshall Academy in New York City
for 12 years. Beloved wife of Jamil Alrazi. Loving mother of Stephen Dumornay and Rachelle Dumornay of Hackensack. Cherished grandmother of Aniyah. Devoted daughter of Anne Joseph Sassine of New York. Dearest sister of Raymond Sassine of Palm Beach, Fla., Marilyn Sassine of Palm Beach, Fla., and Fritz Sassine of Powhattan, Va. SALVATORE GRIECO, of South Hackensack, passed away peacefully on Dec. 9, 2011 at the age of 83. Born in Kings County, N.Y. in 1928, he retired as a computer salesman when he was 62. He was a member of the trustees for Fatima Chapel of Pequannock, where he also was a Latin Mass Acolyte. Devoted son of the late Vincent and Laura Mercaldo Grieco. Dearest brother of Vincent Grieco and his wife Marta of South Hackensack, and the late Louis Grieco. PELLEGRINO LUCIANO FARINA, of Hackensack, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Dec. 16, 2011 at his home at the age of 63. Born in Caltabelotta, Italy, he came to the United States in 1974, settling in Hackensack. While in Italy, he was a state police trooper. He most recently worked as an auxiliary police officer in WoodRidge and also worked in the security division at Bergen Regional Medical Center in Paramus. Beloved husband for 37 years of Caterina Erina Gentili Farina. Devoted father of Alessandra Abueg and her husband Aster of Hackensack. Cherished grandfather of Aiden Luciano and Aaron Jack. Devoted son of the late Giuseppe and Giuseppina Gaglio Farina. Dearest brother of Filippo Farina and his wife Nina of Saddle Brook and Maria Farina of South Hackensack. Loving brother-in-law of Leonard Gentili and his wife Isabella and the late Jack Gentili. RONALD PEZZILLO, of Moonachie, passed away on Dec. 19, 2011 at Hackensack University Medical Center at the age of 63. Prior to retiring in 2005, he was a lieutenant and fire sub-code official for the Hackensack Fire Department, which he joined in 1979. Beloved husband for 38 years of Elizabeth (ne Kusztra). Devoted father of Michael Pezzillo of Hoboken and Robert Pezzillo of Hackensack. Dearest brother of the late Peter Pezzillo, Robert Pezzillo, and Barbara Russo. FLORENCE BOLLERMAN MORRISSEY, a lifelong resident of Hackensack, passed away peacefully on Dec. 25, 2011 at the age of 85. Beloved wife of the late Raymond Morrissey. Devoted mother of Craig Morrissey and his wife Kellyanne of Hawthorne, Keith Morrissey and his wife Linda of New Milford, Brian Morrissey of Hackensack and the late Alice Morrissey. Cherished grandmother of Owen, Bridget, Abigail, Liam, Raymond, Brittney and Matthew. Dearest sister of Elizabeth Many of Tenafly, and the late Eileen McManus, Herman Bollerman, Marion Buonagurio, Kathleen Meechan, Robert Bollerman, Frank Bollerman and David Bollerman. RONALD CSEH, of Ridgefield Park, passed away on Dec. 25, 2011 at CareOne at Wellington in Hackensack at the age of 78. Born in West New York, he lived in Ridgefield Park for 40 years. Prior to retiring, he was a bus driver for NJ Transit. He was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a member of the V.F.W. of Bogota. Beloved husband of the late Elizabeth (ne Leist). Devoted father of Barbara Cseh and her husband Antonio Pacheco of Madrid, Spain, and Patricia Gartner and her husband Robert of Hackensack. Cherished grandfather of Meaghan and James. CESAR PARRA, of Hackensack, passed away on Dec. 25, 2011 at his home, at the age of 74. Born in Manabi, Ecuador, he came to the United States in 1969, settling in Hackensack. Prior to retiring in 2008, he was a supervisor at Colorite Company of Ridgefield Park. Beloved husband for 50 years of Carmen Mantilla Parra. Devoted father of Marisol Sander and her husband Richard, Miriam Krohn and her husband Russell, Monica McGraw and her husband Kenneth, and Cesar Parra Jr. and his wife Mary of Hackensack. Cherished grandfather of
Nicole, Alexis, Robert, Amanda, Jaclyn, Kirsten and Christian. Dearest brother of C. Julio Parra and C. Juan Parra. BAABA POMAA AMOAH, of Hackensack, passed away on Dec. 27, 2011 surrounded by her loving family at Hackensack University Medical Center at the age of 8. Born July 24, 2003 in Teaneck, she was a third grade student at the Padre Pio Academy in Hackensack. She is survived by her beloved parents Akwasi and Monica Barnes Amoah, her brothers and sisters, Nana Amoah, Abena Amoah, Benis Adaquaah and Kwabena Amoah, and her maternal grandmother Hannah Barnes. ELIZABETH COOKE CLARE, of Hackensack, passed away peacefully on Dec. 27, 2011 at the Bristol Manor Nursing Home in Rochelle Park at the age of 95. She was born in Jamaica and came to the United States in 1946, settling in New York. Prior to retiring, she was a registered nurse at the Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn. Beloved wife of the late Harvey Clare. Devoted mother of Jasmine Munson of Hackensack, Courtney Clare of New York, and the late Lucia Clare and Marcia Clare. Cherished grandmother of Kisha, David, Camille, Nicole and Kimberly. MARIA HOLIENKA WARHOL, of Hackensack, passed away peacefully on Jan. 3, 2012 at Hackensack Hospital Hospice at the age of 81. Born in Palisades Park, she lived in Little Ferry and Fair Lawn and came to Hackensack in 1978. Prior to retiring, she was a secretary at Eastern Electronics of Hackensack. Beloved wife of 59 years to Robert Warhol. Devoted mother of Joan Hill and her husband Bruce of Jacksonville, Fla., David Warhol and his wife the late Melissa of Westwood, Robert Warhol and his wife Suzanne of Leesburg, Va., Michael Warhol of Richmond, Va., John Warhol and his wife Marian of Ringwood, Steven Warhol of Hackensack, James Warhol and his wife Ann of Sparta, Marianne Warhol of Hackensack, and Thomas Warhol and his wife Lisa of Bethel, Vt. Cherished grandmother of Richard, Andrew, Jason, Alyssa, Katie, Benjamin, Emily, Matthew, Daniel, Raven and Devin. Adored great-grandmother of Seth, Rose, Daniel, Casey and Ashley. JOSEPHINE SABINO (ne Yanni), of Lodi, passed away peacefully at her home on Jan. 5 at the age of 95. Born in Hackensack, where she grew up, she spent most of her adult life in Lodi. Prior to retiring, she worked in many factories, first as a seamstress and finally at Faberg. Devoted daughter of the late Carmine and Vincenza Putrino Yanni. Beloved wife of the late Anthony Sabino. Dearest sister of James Yanni of Park Ridge and the late Concetta Van Wettering, Kate Moran Carlton, Dominic Yanni and Ann Bell. Loving stepmother of Marilyn Kuhles (David) of River Edge, and Anthony Sabino Jr. (Arlene) of Allendale. Cherished grandmother of David Kuhles II (Stacy Spadaccini), Anthony Sabino, Crystal Sabino, Tim Kuhles, Jeffrey Sabino (Beth), A. Joseph Sabino, Francine Sabino Abel (Travis) and six great-grandchildren, Jordan Sabino, David Kuhles III, Nick Spadaccini, Rosalie Kuhles Wilson, Haley Sabino and Charles Kuhles. JENNIE GUASTELLA SPRAGUER, of Maywood, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Jan. 8 at the age of 92. Born in Paterson, she lived in Bloomingburg, N.Y., and lived in Maywood for 10 years. Prior to retiring, she worked as a healthcare attendant at Wellington Hall in Hackensack. Beloved wife for 29 years of Darrell Spraguer. Devoted mother of Donna De Gregorio and her husband Michael of Hackensack, Colette Kaltner and her husband Michael of Rochelle Park and the late Darrell James Spraguer and the late Janet Hoffman and her husband Robert of Pennsylvania. Cherished grandmother of Jennifer, Angela, Michael, Jillian, Derek, Dillon and Jessie. Adored great-grandmother of Nolan. Dearest sister of the late Frances Mucci and Emma Bellovardo.
Awards Reduced to Fractions

Byron Mincey vs. City of Hackensack. Mincey demanded $250,000 from the city, but the case was dismissed by summary judgment. Brian Basile vs. City of Hackensack. Basile demanded $500,000 but the case was dismissed by summary judgment. Tiffany Loo vs. City of Hackensack. Loo demanded $1 million from the city. The case was dismissed by summary judgment. Mary and Joseph Ganz vs. City of Hackensack. The plaintiffs demanded $1 million from the city, but the case was dismissed by summary judgment. Andre Wiggins vs. City of Hackensack. No demands were specified in the federal lawsuit, but they are estimated at $1 million. The case was tried to conclusion and dismissed. Sid and Kenza Amari vs City of Hackensack. The plaintiffs demanded $500,000 but the case was dismissed by summary judgment. Teodoro Diaz vs. City of Hackensack. Diaz demanded $1 million but received nothing as the case was dismissed by summary judgment. Jolene Mitchell vs. City of Hackensack. Mitchell demanded $500,000, but the case was dismissed by summary judgment.
Troy Anderson vs. City of Hackensack. Anderson demanded $500,000 but was awarded nothing as the case was dismissed by summary judgment. AnnMarie Spellen vs. City of Hackensack. She demanded $1.5 million, but the case was dismissed by summary judgment. Dennis and Barbara Tippenreiter vs. City of Hackensack. The plaintiffs demanded $100,000, but the case was dismissed by summary judgment. Joseph Farmer vs. City of Hackensack. Farmer demanded $250,000, but was awarded nothing as the case was dismissed by a judge. Chuck Richards and Lorenzo Ivey vs. City of Hackensack. The plaintiffs demanded $3.5 million apiece for a total of $7 million. The total award was $400,000. John and Mary Anne Patterson vs. City of Hackensack. The plaintiffs demanded $10,000 but a judge dismissed the case. Fouad Dakka vs. City of Hackensack. Dakka demanded $1.5 million. The case is pending. Police Officer Joseph Al-Ayoubi vs. City of Hackensack. Al-Ayoubi demanded $1 million. Although the case is still pending in federal court, claims against Police Chief Ken Zisa and Capts. Danilo Garcia and Thomas Salcedo have been dismissed.
Brittany Faith Rose
Hackensack Baby Boy 2012s First
Se Habla Espaol
77 Hudson Street Hackensack, NJ 07601 Tel: 201.343.4300 Fax: 201.457.9219 ada@adatorreslaw.com
Photo Courtesy: Joanne Rose
Photo Courtesy: Hackensack University Medical Center
Brittany Faith Rose Joanne and Ronald Rose celebrated the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Brittany Faith, on Dec. 3 at Temple Avodat Shalom in River Edge. Brittanys grandparents are Edwin and Gertrude Mayer of Hackensack and Ruth Rose of Mahwah. Following the ceremony, the celebration continued at the Landmark.
Melida Orbe holds her son, Dilan, who was the first baby born at Hackensack University Medical Center and the first in Bergen and Passaic counties in 2012. Hackensack University Medical Center welcomed the first baby born in 2012 in all of Bergen and Passaic counties. Dilan Orbe came into the world at 12:35 a.m. weighing 6 pounds, 2.4 ounces and measuring 19 inches in length. Dilan is the first baby for Melida Orbe and Antonio Beltran, who live in Hackensack. Orbe was in labor for 12 hours before Dilan was born via C-section.
Established 1998
Puzzle Answers
Games on Page 15
Real Estate Trends & Home Improvement

Hackensack Sales 298 Sutton Ave. Listed at $214,900. Sold in 86 days at $213,000 on Dec. 27, 2011. 24 Coolidge Pl. Listed at $259,900. Sold in 155 days at $235,000 on Dec. 21, 2011. 96 Cedar Ave. Listed at $289,000. Sold in 16 days at $276,000 on Dec. 16, 2011. 94 Davis Ave. Listed at $314,900. Sold in 133 days at $286,000 on Dec. 15, 2011. 254 Spring Valley Ave. Listed at $349,999. Sold in 118 days at
Recent Home Sales
$325,000 on Dec. 27, 2011. 146 Hopper St. Listed at $365,000. Sold in 223 at $340,000 on Dec. 21, 2011. 301 Euclid Ave. Listed at $414,000. Sold in 17 days at $404,000 on Dec. 15, 2011. 436 Maple Hill Dr. Listed at $449,000. Sold in 34 days at $443,800 on Dec. 16, 2011. Recent Maywood Sales 859 Edel Ave. Listed at $377,000. Sold in 23 days at $359,500 on Dec. 27, 2011.
Youll Save Over $100K
Equity: The difference between the current market value of a property and the total debt outstanding against the property. Balloon Payment: An obligation, loan or mortgage providing for routine smaller installments with a large final (balloon) payment to be made at maturity or at specified intervals. Assessed Value: The value that a taxing authority (commonly the county or municipality) places on a property for the purposes of collecting payment of taxes Assessment: A historical, static estimate of the value of your property used by a municipal (local) government.
Real Estate Lingo
Hackensack Electrical Contracting Co.

License # 15242
BY BRIAN MORGENWECK Were seeing more and more research coming from quality sources proving that now is a most opportune time to purchase a home. No matter the type of scenario or ratio, be it income-to-mortgage payment, income-to-price, youll find that a home purchase now is quite a bargain as compared with all historical norms. We know that sellers are most concerned with price, but buyers focus on cost as it is most indicative of a homes affordability to them. As reported in a recent S&P Case Shiller price index, home values are back to where they were in the beginning of 2003. Now lets look at the cost of money, or interest rates. Undoubtedly, this makes the purchase of a home even more compelling. In 2003, 30-year mortgage rates were at
Tel. (201) 440-4030 Fax (201) 440-4039
Full Service Residential Commercial & Industrial Wiring Emergency Service Available
Se Habla Espaol
Responsible, Reliable & Reasonable
5.88 percent. Today, theyre at 4 percent. Ok, so what? Whats a measly 1.88 percent? Its actually a drop of 32 percent in the cost of mortgage money. Lets look at the monthly cost of a home taking this rate differential into account. Well use a $250,000 mortgage loan amount to illustrate: So, your savings would be $285.30 per month, $3,423.60 every year and $102,708 over the life of the 30-year loan. You bought the same home at the same price, but it cost you $100,000 less. Maybe this is why so many expert financial advisors are trumpeting that now is most likely one of the best times in history to buy a home. Opportunity is knocking. Answer the door. Brian Morgenweck is the owner and broker at Power Realty Group, 68 Summit Ave., Hackensack, 201-546-0040.
. FREE Estimates . Vinyl & Aluminum . Mirrors . Table Tops . Tub & Shower Enclosures
Replacement Windows
. All Types of Glass Replacements . Fogged Insulated Glass Repairs . Glass Repairs . Glass Cut To Size . Acrylics . Storm & Screen Repairs
476 Hudson St., Hackensack, NJ Tel: 201-440-3937 / Fax: 201-440-1876

POLIFLY PROFESSIONAL PLAZA
A Full Service Real Estate Company

1-31-12. 1-31-12.
"Laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind." ~Sir Francis Bacon

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County Seat

Republican Padovano Leading Maywood

Rochelle Park Paramus Teaneck Teterboro

We Will Help You Reach Your TARGET MARKET

Hackensack Wins Major Victory

17 14,15 13 15 8 18 18,19 17,20 2,3

Photos Courtesy: Gail Vachon

Photos Courtesy: Patti McNamara

Little Ferry Marine Honored

Top Decorators Named

County Patrolling Teterboro

The County Seat

Page 2 - January 2012 - The County Seat

Photo Courtesy: Patti McNamara

Photo Courtesy: Patti McNamara

Employee Brunch Celebrates 2012

Demands Total $20M, Awards Reduced to Fractions

Photo Courtesy: Gail Vachon

The County Seat - January 2012 - Page 3

Page 4 - January 2012 - The County Seat

Trio Joins Hackensack Force

Letter to the Editor

Photo Courtesy: Gail Vachon

City Hires Police Veterans

Time to Laugh Out Loud

Photo Courtesy: Gail Vachon

The County Seat - January 2012 - Page 5

Good Job, Hackensack P.D.

Ringing in the New Year

New Volunteer Ambulance Crew Leaders

Photo Courtesy: Rory Sutherland

Photo Courtesy: Terry Gold

Teaneck Woman Donates Pet Masks

Page 6 - January 2012 - The County Seat

Baseball Season Around the Corner

P ASSAIC S TREET B ARBER S HOP R ELOCATED

Main Street Barber Shop

Hospital Angels Make Rounds

Santa Tours Maywood Train Station

Photo Courtesy: Sheri Hensley

Photo Courtesy: Ed Kaminski

Maywood Hoops Star Feted

SPECIALIZING IN S TAIN R EMOVAL FOR W ET AND D RY C LEANING!

The County Seat - January 2012 - Page 7

Main Street Hackensack

2012 Will Be Year of Change

Valentines Gifts Right at Home

Page 8 - January 2012 - The County Seat

visit us at: www.uppermain.org

Maywood Santacade Travels Through Town

Paramus Catholic Tree Lighting

Photo Courtesy: Crista Vigeant

Photos Courtesy: Gail Vachon

College Employees Collect Food

NOAHS ARK NURSERY SCHOOL

2 , 3 & 4 YR OLD CLASSES

120 East Pleasant Ave. Maywood, NJ 07607 (201) 843-6636 www.noahsarknurseryschool.com

Photo Courtesy: Lori McCurley

Spreading Musical Cheer

We make a world of difference!

Photo Courtesy: Fred Rohdieck

Welcome to Cardboard City