Our Kids and Pets Issue Has Arrived! Step into the World of Little Explorers and Furry Friends:
JONAS K. SEIGEL Partner
JAN K. SEIGEL Partner
Volvo Plug-in Hybrids
Electric cars with a backup plan. Great for everyday trips and longer journeys.
Kids and Pets: Leaving Pawprints and Footprints on Our Hearts
This issue is the one I’m most excited about yet. What do kids and pets have in common? They both need us. Our care, attention, and intention shape how they are raised and who they become. Pets provide us with unconditional love and the chance to learn, grow, and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could overlook the bond between kids and their furry friends? This bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.
For this issue, we asked local residents to submit photos of their furry friends, and they did not disappoint! Turn to page 34 to see some of the cutest pups in the community.
With four daughters, there’s certainly no shortage of cooking going on in our house—and also no shortage of complaining that yet again, one or more of them don’t like what is prepared for dinner. Can we really live on mac n’ cheese every night? It’s time to break the cycle! On page 22, Gwynn Galvin shares a few kid-approved recipes that everyone in the family will enjoy. Hopefully, these recipes will bring some peace to our dinner table and maybe even inspire my daughters to expand their culinary skills.
As we wrap up this summer, it's a great time to reflect on the simple pleasures that children and pets bring into our lives. Whether it’s the laughter from a playful puppy or the excitement of kids exploring the outdoors, these moments are precious. The bond between children and their pets teaches them so much about love, trust, and responsibility.
Reflecting on these relationships, it's clear that they offer more than just companionship. Pets teach children valuable life lessons in caring for another living being, understanding the importance of routine, and developing patience. These experiences build a foundation of empathy and responsibility that will serve them well throughout their lives.
We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life this month. Take this time to enjoy the last bit of summer before the chaos of September begins. Cherish these warm days and the opportunities they bring to connect and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Anthony Rizzo | anthony.rizzo@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Harvey Miguel
INTERN
Justina Schiavone
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Gwynn Galvin
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jeremy Lebled, Gwynn Galvin, AEDE Dance Studio
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Saddle River Wyckoff Palisades Park
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Pvolve Upper Saddle River ribbon cutting ceremony with the Mayor and council. 2: Students at Northern Highlands Regional High School received the National Italian Exam Awards. 3: IHA’s 61st annual Commencement Exercises were held on June 1. Congratulations to this impressive class! 4: NHEA celebrates retirees: teachers, counselors, administrators, and family gather to honor their invaluable contributions. 5: Students at Northern Highlands Regional High School received the National French Awards. 6: Northern Highlands Regional High School recognized their seniors for academic, community, and athletic achievements. 7: Students at Northern Highlands Regional High School received the BSA Eagle Awards.
NORTH JERSEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
ANNEMARIE
8: Ho-Ho-Kus welcomes Officer Tyler Cronin, sworn in with pride and support from Mayor Randall and colleagues. 9: Mayor Randall honors Ho-Ho-Kus Fire Department’s Ex-Chiefs Keeley and Kuenzel for decades of dedicated service. 10: Ho-Ho-Kus unites for Memorial Day Parade honoring fallen heroes, with contributions from students and organizations. 11: Ho-Ho-Kus remembers fallen heroes with a heartfelt Memorial Day Parade, honoring service and sacrifice together. 12: Northern Highlands Regional High School Senior Trip at the Ramsey Municipal Pool! 13: DECA Scholarship presentation at the June Allendale Chamber of Commerce Meeting. 14: Northern Highlands Regional High School band performing at the Senior Award ceremony.
BOROUGH OF HO-HO-KUS
BOROUGH OF HO-HO-KUS
COUNCILMAN DANE POLICASTRO COUNCILMAN DANE POLICASTRO
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
ZACHARY LISELLA
Dr. Kayal Releases New Book!
From Solo Practice Entrepreneur to Orthopaedic Empire: Dr. Kayal a Bergen County local recently released his newest book Mastering the Business of Medicine & The DoctorPatient Relationship - Where Dr. Kayal unveils the roadmap to success in the ever-evolving world of healthcare.
Scan to read more
Ridgewood Coffee Company Opens New Storefront!
Ridgewood Coffee Company has relocated to 133 E Ridgewood Ave! Explore their new space and indulge in a delightful experience of sipping, savoring, and pure enjoyment awaits you! For more information visit https:// www.facebook.com/ridgewoodcoffee/
Black Magic Bake House Opens In Ridgewood!
Exciting news for the Northern Highlands area! Discover Black Magic Bake House - Ridgewood's new bakery hotspot! This charming bakery specializes in naturally leavened goods! From doughnuts to quiche, their rotating menu promises something delightful every Thursday to Sunday, 8AM until sold out. Visit them at 19 West Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood.
Photography by @kayalortho
Photography by @ridgewoodcoffeecompany
Photography by @blackmagicbakehouse
the CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Private School
Immaculate Heart Academy www.immaculateheartnj.com | 201.445.6800
Bergen Catholic High School www.bergencatholic.org | 201.261.1844
Saddle River Day School www.saddleriverday.org | 201.327.4050
Don Bosco Preparatory High School www.donboscoprep.org | 201.327.8003
Saint Joseph Regional High School www.saintjosephregional.org | 201.391.3300
Veterinary Practice
Allendale Veterinary Hospital www.allendalevet.com | 201.327.1045
Bergen County Veterinary Center www.bergencountyveterinarycenter.com | 201.447.4444
Ramsey Animal Clinic www.ramseyanimalclinic.com | 201.934.4000
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Oradell Animal Hospital www.oradell.com | 201.350.1802
VCA Ho-Ho-Kus Animal Hospital www.vcahospitals.com/ho-ho-kus | 201.652.1258
Hounds Town Hawthorne
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY LEBLED
WHERE DOGS
ROAM FREE
Manager Perrin DeFreitas
““Our mission is simple yet profound—we let dogs be dogs. From the moment they step paw into our facility, we prioritize their comfort and well-being above all else.” - Perrin DeFreitas
Amidst the hustle and bustle in Hawthorne, lies a haven for dogs—Hounds Town Hawthorne. Led by the dedicated manager, Perrin DeFreitas, this canine paradise offers more than just a place for pets; it’s a home away from home where tails wag freely and furry friendships flourish.
DeFreitas, shares the vision behind Hounds Town Hawthorne: “Our mission is simple yet profound—we let dogs be dogs. From the moment they step paw into our facility, we prioritize their comfort and well-being above all else. We group dogs based on size and temperament, allowing them to interact naturally, just like they would in the wild.”
““Whether it’s daycare, boarding, or bathing your pups, we prioritize the happiness of both pets and owners.”
- Perrin DeFreitas
What sets Hounds Town Hawthorne apart from the pack? DeFreitas elaborates, “Unlike traditional doggy daycares where constant human supervision is the norm, we take a different approach. While we do monitor the playrooms closely, we purposefully refrain from constant intervention. This allows dogs to develop their social skills and instincts, fostering a more enriching experience.”
But what about safety concerns? DeFreitas assures, “We conduct thorough evaluations for every dog, ensuring they’re compatible with group settings. Our team closely observes their interactions, noting any triggers or patterns that may arise. We prioritize transparency, providing owners with detailed feedback and recommendations tailored to their furry friends.
”
Hounds Town Hawthorne isn’t just about daycare—it’s a community hub where pet parents find solace and support. DeFreitas adds, “We offer flexible scheduling and transparent pricing, ensuring our services are accessible to all. Whether it’s daycare, boarding, or bathing your pups, we prioritize the happiness of both pets and owners.”
In a world where pets are cherished as family members, Hounds Town Hawthorne stands out as a beacon of excellence, where dogs roam free and tails wag with joy.
Website: HoundsTownUsa.com/locations/hawthorne/
Address: 100 Braen Avenue, Hawthorne, NJ, United States, 07506
E-mail: hawthorne@houndstownusa.com
Phone: (908) 275-1945
Hounds Town Hawthorne
SUMMER Sips AND Snacks
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
GWYNN GALVIN
KID-FRIENDLY RECIPES TO KEEP THE FUN FLOWING!
Gwynn Galvin, a local from Bergen County, is the visionary behind Swirls of Flavor, an online platform offering easy, family-friendly recipes crafted from fresh, simple ingredients tailored for busy family lifestyles. Galvin shares, “My passion is bringing people together through food.” This dedication is interwoven into her life as a devoted mother of four sons and a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren, affectionately known as her “little loves”. Explore some of her grandchildren’s favorite recipes!
Gwynn Galvin
Strawberry Lemonade
When life hands you lemons, make lemonade. But, why not add strawberries to the mix? This homemade Strawberry Lemonade offers a burst of fruity freshness for your kids in every sip.
STRAWBERRY LEMONADE
ingredients:
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 pound strawberries, trimmed and halved
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6 large lemons)
• 4 cups cold water
directions:
1. Create the Simple Syrup: In a medium saucepot, combine 2 cups of water and granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Cool the Simple Syrup: Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepot from the heat and allow the simple syrup mixture to cool to room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.
3. Puree the Strawberries: While the simple syrup is cooling, place the halved strawberries and 1 cup of cold water into a blender. Blend until the strawberries are fully pureed and smooth.
4. Strain the Strawberry Mixture: Pour the strawberry puree through a fine mesh strainer set over a bowl or pitcher to remove any seeds. Discard the seeds and retain the smooth strawberry liquid.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice, strained strawberry puree, remaining 3 cups of cold water, and the cooled simple syrup. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
6. Chill and Serve: Place the pitcher of Strawberry Lemonade in the refrigerator to chill until you’re ready to serve. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the drink to become refreshingly cold.
7. Serve and Enjoy: When you’re ready to enjoy your Strawberry Lemonade, pour it over ice-filled glasses. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each glass with a fresh strawberry and a sprig of mint, if desired.
Strawberry Lemonade taste testers!
Some of Gwynn Galvin's Grandchildren!
CHEESEBURGER EMPANADAS
ingredients:
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1 Tbs. packed brown sugar
• 1 Tbs. hamburger relish (optional)
• 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (11.6 ounces) package frozen dough for turnovers pastries, thawed (Goya brand recommended)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
directions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Brown beef in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat; drain any excess fat drippings.
3. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, relish (if desired), and kosher salt. Heat until sugar has dissolved, about 1 minute.
4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
5. Stir in 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Place one piece of dough on a lightly floured surface. Arrange about 1 tablespoon of beef mixture in the center of the bottom half of the dough about 1-inch from edges. Top with 1 teaspoon of shredded cheddar cheese.
These cheeseburger empanadas are bursting with a ground beef, ketchup, and cheese filling, making them the perfect kid-friendly snack!
7. Brush edges of dough with cold water. Fold the top half of the dough over the filling and seal. Arrange on a baking sheet and repeat with remaining dough, filling, and cheese.
8. Brush tops and sides of empanadas with lightly beaten egg and bake for 20 minutes or until golden. Enjoy!
Cheeseburger Empanadas
Homemade Cookie Dough Ice Cream is filled with bits of edible cookie dough and mini chocolate chips. Best of all, no ice cream maker is needed to make this no-churn ice cream!
NO CHURN COOKIE DOUGH ICE CREAM
ingredients:
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup edible cookie dough (in small pieces)
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
directions:
1. Line a 13 x 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. With a mixer on medium-high, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until blended.
4. Shape the cookie dough into bite-size pieces.
5. Fold in the edible cookie dough bits and mini chips.
6. Transfer the ice cream mixture to the prepared loaf pan.
7. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze until firm, 8 hours to overnight. Enjoy!
For more recipes like this visit https://swirlsofflavor.com
No Churn Cookie Dough Ice Cream
AEDE DANCE EXTENSIONS
Creating Talent and Character
Owners: Elizabeth and Dan Mueller
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY AEDE DANCE STUDIO
“We want to create a great dancer, but an even better person.”
- Dan Mueller
When there are so many dance studios throughout the area, AEDE Dance Studio stands out not only for its impressive 39-year legacy but also for its unique approach to fostering talent and character in its students. Elizabeth and Dan Mueller, the husband and wife duo behind AEDE, share their journey, philosophy, and vision for the future of their studio.
Dan Mueller’s roots run deep within AEDE. “I grew up dancing there since I was five years old,” he shares. “The previous owners, Frank and Anita, were my teachers as I was growing up. I went off to college to study dance, danced professionally, and eventually returned to start teaching.” It was a natural progression for Dan to step into the role of director when the previous owners were ready to retire.
Elizabeth Mueller, Dan’s partner both in life and in business, brings her own invaluable experience to the table. “I was never a dancer,” she admits, “but I’ve always been in the dance world, supporting Dan since we were 15 years old.” With a background in teaching middle school and high school English for 13 years,
Elizabeth seamlessly transitioned into her role at AEDE. “The kids at the studio are like my other set of children,” she says.
AEDE not only has a diverse range of classes— from ballet to hip-hop—but they also have an unwavering commitment to creating not only great dancers but exceptional individuals. “We want to create a great dancer, but an even better person,” Dan emphasizes. “Our culture revolves around the idea that dance is challenging, but with the support of passionate teachers and a community of like-minded individuals, our students can achieve anything.” Elizabeth shares.
AEDE offers both recreational and competitive programs, for dancers of all ages and skill levels. “Our company kids are very dedicated,” Dan explains. “They spend countless hours in the studio honing their craft, while our recreational program provides a more flexible option for those who just want to take one class.”
“But
it’s important for us to remember where we came from while striving to keep moving forward.”
- Elizabeth Mueller
The Muellers are deeply invested in the well-being and growth of each student who walks through their doors. “We know every single kid that walks through our door,” Dan emphasizes. “It’s not just a place to learn dance; it’s a place to grow up.”
Elizabeth shares, “But it’s important for us to remember where we came from while striving to keep moving forward.”
As AEDE Dance Studio enters its 6th year under the Muellers’ ownership, one thing is clear: this is more than just a dance studio—it’s a home where talent is nurtured, character is built, and dreams are realized.
For more information visit www.danceextensions.com
“Our
culture revolves around the idea that dance is challenging, but with the support of passionate teachers and a community of likeminded individuals, our students can achieve anything.”
- Elizabeth Mueller
MEET THE PETS!
LORENZO & LILIANAPUBLISHER ANTHONY RIZZO'S TWO CATS!
The Cherished Pets of Northern Highlands
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY NORTHERN HIGHLANDS RESIDENTS
For our Northern Highlands Annual Kids and Pets issue we were on the hunt for some local cuties. This past June, we invited local Northern Highlands residents to share pictures of their beloved pets. We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed photos. Your participation made our Kids and Pets Issue truly special, highlighting the deep bond between families and their furry companions in our community.
Sarah Dodson, a local resident, says her mutt, Hughes, is a constant source of companionship. “Hughes is a cross country traveler. Driving over 2000 miles from Utah to New Jersey at just 1 years old. She misses her mountains, but loves all her new parks and friends in Jersey.” she says, reflecting a sentiment shared by many in the community.
The bond between pets and their owners transcends mere ownership; it is a relationship built on love and mutual respect. Whether it’s the playful antics of a kitten or the loyal companionship of a senior dog, these animals enrich the lives of everyone they encounter.
It’s a time to acknowledge the importance of these creatures in our lives, reminding us that they are not just pets but cherished members of our families, deserving of our love and care, just like any other family member.
“Hughes is a cross country traveler. Driving over 2000 miles from Utah to New Jersey at just 1 years old. She misses her mountains, but loves all her new parks and friends in Jersey.”
- Sarah Dodson
LUNA AMBER
CHAI BLUE
LULU
CHARLIE
SYDNEY
LEO
CARSON
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”
Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.
“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
DOG
SOCIALIZING TIPS:
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.
• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.
• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.
• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.
• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.
HOW
TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:
AUGUST 2024
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 3RD
Movie Night at the Lake
Crestwood Lake - 300 W Crescent Ave, Allendale | 8:30 PM
A free movie night is coming to Crestwood Lake this August. You won't want to miss this! For more information visit https://www. allendalenj.gov/crestwood-lake-park
AUGUST 9TH
Free Concert in the Park
Rindlaub Park - 145 E. Saddle River Rd., Saddle River | 5:30 PM
Enjoy a fun-filled evening of music! At 5:30 PM there will be a Musical Jam! with A HUM Music, for kids! And at 6:30 PM - Wrong Exit will be performing the best of the 70s, 80s & 90s. The event will also include food trucks at Rindlaub Park, 145 E. Saddle River Rd., Saddle River. For more information you can visit www.saddleriverconcert.org
AUGUST 9TH
Group
Sound Meditation
96 E Allendale Rd, Saddle River | 7:00 PM
The use of sound to find peace, meditate and reflect, is an age old practice that has deep ties to ancient traditions. Quiet your mind and release old physical and energetic patterns using Himalayan Singing Bowls.
AUGUST 10TH
Hermitage Museum Arts & Crafts
Show
Hermitage Museum - 335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Enjoy the Art & Craft Show at the Hermitage Museum - Rain or Shine! Admission is $5 and includes a Museum Tour. The show will be featuring 80 Exhibitors, Food, and More! Presented by Friends of the Hermitage - for more information visit www.pjspromotions.com or call 201-410-5416.
AUGUST 15TH
Music Under the Stars
Veterans Field - 125 N Maple Ave, Ridgewood | 7:30 PM
Come enjoy music in the open air to meet new friends! The band performing is, Fat Mezz, a South Jersey rock 'n' roll band.
AUGUST 25TH
Allendale Summer Concerts at Crestwood Lake
Crestwood Lake - 300 W Crescent Ave, Allendale | 7:00 PM
Summer Concerts in Allendale are back! Come down to the lake for live music and fun at the Band Festival this August. For more information visit https://www.allendalenj.gov/crestwood-lake-park
Want to be featured?
