Electric cars with a backup plan. Great for everyday trips and longer journeys.
Welcome to City Lifestyle, Northern Highlands!
Your premier destination for community and lifestyle in Saddle River, Upper Saddle River, Allendale, and Ho-Ho-Kus.
We are delighted to introduce the inaugural issue to this vibrant region. We extend a warm invitation for you to join us on this exciting journey as we shine a spotlight on local businesses, community members, charitable organizations, and upcoming events. Have a story idea or suggestion? We're all ears! Shoot us a line.
As we dive into the month of June, we not only welcome warmer weather but also an opportunity to celebrate fathers. With Father's Day just around the corner, it's the perfect time to express our gratitude and appreciation for all the dads out there who make our lives brighter.
I'm a dad to four daughters, and at times—let's be honest —I can be a dork. In that spirit, I present to you a selection of classic "dad jokes" that my girls both roll their eyes at, and chuckle at:
1. Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!
2. What do you call fake spaghetti? An impasta!
3. Why don't skeletons fight each other? They don't have the guts!
4. I'm reading a book on anti-gravity. It's impossible to put down!
5. What do you call a factory that makes okay products? A satisfactory!
Laughter truly is the best medicine, and we hope these jokes bring a smile to your face amidst your daily routine.
In the spirit of community and camaraderie, let's take a moment to reflect on the invaluable role fathers play in our lives. Their love, guidance, and unwavering support shape us into the individuals we are today. Whether it's teaching us life lessons, sharing a joke, or simply being there for us, fathers leave an indelible mark on our hearts.
As we celebrate Father's Day, let's not only honor our own fathers but also recognize and appreciate the father figures in our community. Their dedication and selflessness deserve to be celebrated not just on this special day but every day of the year.
Anthony and I are beyond excited to be expanding into this region. We hope you enjoy reading our first issue as much as we've enjoyed creating it for you.
PUBLISHERS
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
Anthony Rizzo | anthony.rizzo@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Matt Zorovich, Jennifer K. Murray
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Front Door Photography, Dan Epstein, Carly Mac Manus
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
JAKE SLOWINSKI & ANTHONY RIZZO, PUBLISHERS @NORTHERNHIGHLANDSCITYLIFESTYLE
Landscape Design
JUNE 2024
1: Saddle River Day School hosted the HELP Foundation Walkathon. 2: NHEA Math Club led by Ms. Cummiskey competed in the Bergen County Math League. 3: MTV star, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino, promoting his book at Books and Greetings in Northvale. 4: Mayor Randall, Council members, and Chamber of Commerce welcomed Graze restaurant owners to Ho-Ho-Kus. 5: Northern Highlands students assist sculptor in crafting clay relief for historic Allendale Mural Project. 6: Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden blossoms at Borough Hall, with DPW crafting sustainable space for all. 7: Ladies Auxiliary group of Ho-Ho-Kus Fire Department hosted their annual comedy night fundraiser!
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Discover the ultimate eyelash extension experience at the new Deka Lash in Upper Saddle River. Unveiling their chic studio in the new shopping center just off Route 17N, their Deka-certified Lash Artists await, ready to transform your lashes and brows with personalized precision. Embrace a world of lash enhancements and feel the difference with Deka Lash. For more information, visit their website. www.dekalash.com/find-a-studio/new-jersey/upper-saddle-river
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This past April Bogota Savings Bank opened their newest location in Upper Saddle River. For the past month for every account opened in their Upper Saddle River location, they donated to USR Cares and Upper Saddle River Educational Foundation. Stop by 558 E Crescent Ave to check them out, or you can visit their website at https://www.bogotasavingsbank.com
Hounds Town Hillsdale is thrilled to announce their second location in Hawthorne, NJ! Specializing in doggy daycare and boarding, they're here to pamper your furry friends. Find their new location at 100 Braen Avenue, Hawthorne, NJ 07506. Call 908-275-1945 or email hawthorne@houndstownusa.com to book your pup's stay! Remember, at Hounds Town, "They do it for the dogs."
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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.
Stag House njstaghouse.com | 201.670.0110
Brother Barber brotherbarber.com | 201.962.3025
Maple Barber Shop maplebarbershop.com | 201.574.8111
Allendale Barber Shop allendalebarbershopnj.com | 201.327.5599
Domenic & Pietro Barber Studio 201.652.8488
Men’s Clothing Store
Society Men societyfemme.com | 201.722.9300 Sal Lauretta sallauretta.com | 201.444.1666
Victor's Men's Clothing Inc. 201.670.5730
Monte Carlo Men’s Wear montecarlomenswear.com | 201.594.9777
Vero Uomo verouomonj.com | 201.894.1424
Ramsey Golf & Country Club ramseycountryclub.com | 201.327.0009
Ridgewood Country Club top100golfcourses.com/golf-course/ridgewood-west-east | 201.599.3900
Paramus Golf & Country Club paramusgolfcourse.com | 201.447.6067
Edgewood Country Club edgewoodnj.com | 201.666.1200
White Beeches Golf and Country Club wbgcc.com | 201.385.3100
J/O Cigar Lounge jocigarlounge2.godaddysites.com | 973.304.1909
Casa de Montecristo Cigar Lounge & Bar casademontecristo.com/paramus | 201.261.7988
Leafs Cigar Lounge leafscigarlounge.com | 201.483.9300
The Brick House Cigar Shop thebrickhousewyckoff.com/room/cigar-bar | 201.848.1211
The Tobacco Shop of Ridgewood tobaccoshop.com | 201.447.2204
The Roosevelt theroosevelt.us | 201.713.3145
No. 12 no12ridgewood.com | 201.272.6472
Sushi by the Sea sushibysea.com
Pinstripes pinstripes.com | 551.966.0420
Fire & Oak - Montvale fireandoak.com | 201.307.1100
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS CITY LIFESTYLE
We present to you the inaugural issue of Northern Highlands City Lifestyle, your vibrant gateway to all the splendor and spirit of Saddle River, Upper Saddle River, Allendale, and Ho-Ho-Kus!! Behind every page of this publication beats the heart of two individuals: Anthony Rizzo and Jake Slowinski. They’re not just publishers; they’re passionate purveyors of community spirit, dedicated to breathing life into the essence of our beloved region.
Meet Jake Slowinski, whose journey into the realm of community publications began over five years ago. After selling a previous business, Jake was considering his next steps. He was attracted to opening a City Lifestyle publication because he loved the idea of being able to help unite communities. He also wanted something he could do with his wife, Tiffany. As the proud parents of four daughters, Jake and Tiffany shared a vision of building something meaningful that they can one day involve the rest of their family in.
In 2019 they launched Bridgewater City Lifestyle and two years later they launched their second publication, Somerset Hills City Lifestyle.
Jake enjoys the profound sense of community impact. For him, the most rewarding aspect of his work lies in watching the community and local businesses flourish together. “It’s truly rewarding to witness the connections deepen and the community flourish as we share stories and spotlight the businesses that make our region unique,” reflects Jake. He’s excited to now bring this to the Northern Highlands region.
“THE EXCITING PART IS BEING ABLE TO COME IN SHARE THE STORIES IN THE COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT THE BUSINESSES AND THINGS GOING ON AND WATCH THEM GROW.”
- JAKE SLOWINSKI, PUBLISHER
Then there’s Anthony Rizzo, whose journey into the world of City Lifestyle was sparked by the success stories within his inner circle. Anthony is actually cousins with Jake’s wife. With a background in sales and a burning desire to make a difference, Anthony saw City Lifestyle as the perfect canvas to paint his vision
of community empowerment. Born and raised in Bergen County, in 2022 Anthony launched Pascack Valley City Lifestyle.
Anthony acknowledges the invaluable mentorship he received from Jake, saying, “There’s some tough weeks and tough days, but I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today starting a second publication
without Jake and Tiffany’s help and guidance.” Last August Anthony married his high school sweetheart, Lucille, and they are eager to grow these publications in an area they hope to someday raise a family.
At the heart of Northern Highlands City Lifestyle beats a commitment to community, family, and connection. For Anthony and Jake, family isn’t just a word—it’s a guiding principle that permeates every facet of their business and personal lives. Together, they envision a future where local residents are celebrated, businesses thrive, and bonds are forged stronger than ever before.
As we embark on this journey, we invite you to join us in celebrating the vibrant tapestry of the Northern Highlands. Expect more than just ordinary articles— expect a publication that embodies the very soul of our community. Together, let’s amplify our voices, celebrate our stories, and forge lasting connections. Welcome to Northern Highlands City Lifestyle— where community comes alive!
Anthony Rizzo
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY CARLY MAC MANUSAs Father's Day approaches, the sizzle of the grill may be calling your name, promising a day filled with delicious food and memorable family moments. Jonathan Goldstein of B&M Market in Park Ridge brings his passion for food and his culinary expertise together to create a unique market that is a true asset to the community.
Jonathan's journey from working on Wall Street to the world of gourmet meats began over a decade ago when he acquired B&M Market. What started as a traditional butcher shop has grown into a culinary destination known for its premium cuts, house-made marinades, and prepared foods.
"At B&M Market, we're all about bringing the restaurant experience home," Jonathan explains. "From prime steaks to Bell and Evans chickens, and from heritage pork to wild salmon, we take pride in offering the highest quality meats and culinary creations that elevate any occasion."
When it comes to Father's Day grilling, the options are as endless as there are smiles around the table. Jonathan suggests tailoring the menu to suit Dad's preferences, whether he's a fan of ribeyes, skirt steak, or a classic sirloin.
"Dads deserve the best on Father's Day," Jonathan says. "Whether it's a juicy ribeye for a crowd or individual New York strips, our prime steaks guarantee a memorable meal. And for a hassle-free option, our skirt steak with scallion sauce is always a hit—it's flavorful, easy to grill, and perfect for sharing."
No grill session is complete without a lineup of mouthwatering sides to complement the star of the show. Jonathan recommends opting for refreshing options that provide a cool contrast to the heat of the grill.
“WHETHER IT’S A JUICY RIBEYE FOR A CROWD OR INDIVIDUAL NEW YORK STRIPS, OUR PRIME STEAKS GUARANTEE A MEMORABLE MEAL. AND FOR A HASSLE-FREE OPTION, OUR SKIRT STEAK WITH SCALLION SAUCE IS ALWAYS A HIT—IT’S FLAVORFUL, EASY TO GRILL, AND PERFECT FOR SHARING.”
"Our Greek cucumber salad, Brussels sprout and apple slaw, and seafood selections like shrimp or lobster salad are perfect for summer gatherings," Jonathan suggests. "And for those who crave a taste of comfort, our fusilli with fresh mozzarella and tomato vinaigrette hits the spot without weighing you down."
Jonathan and his team at B&M Market stand ready to ensure every celebration is a resounding success. Whether customers choose to pre-order their favorite cuts or stop by the store for last-minute additions, the focus remains on delivering top-notch quality and service.
"Father's Day is all about making memories, not stressing over the details," Jonathan emphasizes. "That's why we offer customizable menus, assistance with prep and grilling, and a wide selection of meats
and accompaniments. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or an intimate family gathering, we've got you covered."
As Jonathan prepares to celebrate Father's Day with his own family, he reflects on the joy of sharing delicious food and cherished moments with loved ones.
"Father's Day is a time to honor the dads in our lives and show appreciation for all they do," Jonathan says. "And what better way to celebrate than with a mouthwatering feast cooked with love? Whether you're grilling up a storm at home or letting us handle the heavy lifting, B&M Market is here to make your Father's Day unforgettable."
So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure fit for Dad!
bmfoodlovers.com
There is a good chance that you have recently experienced the spring ritual of walking out into the backyard, taking a deep breath, and envisioning the warmer months to come. Many times, this leads to thinking about what that outdoor space is now—and what it could become.
For many, visions of gatherings with family and friends can inspire the ideas for a backyard retreat that—when designed properly—will help to create a legacy of lasting memories.
Enter the Cording family of CLC Landscape Design. You would be hard-pressed to find a more qualified team. Rich Cording, Sr., LLA, ASLA, CNLP has been at the helm of the business for over 50 years, and in true family fashion, the day-to-day operations are now managed by sons Rich Jr., MLD, and Eric, CLD. All team members are formally educated in all aspects of residential landscape design, architecture, and—perhaps more importantly—execution. And they all seem to be having fun doing it.
CONTINUED >
Their services include complete landscape design, architecture, building, and maintenance, and their award-winning work can be seen in some of the most creative uses of outdoor space in the Pascack Valley and beyond. Recent projects have included a home in Woodcliff Lake, which began as a smaller project and grew to include a pool and putting green.
Both sons have rounded out their formal educations by learning on the job and shadowing Rich Sr. over the years. "My sons understand the importance of creating spaces that provide the backdrop for your family to relax and unwind in a comfortable setting," says Rich Sr.
In addition to holding a Master's in Landscape Design from Columbia, Rich Jr. relies on his background as an officer in the Navy to provide focus and structure to a process that, once initiated, can have many moving parts.
From meeting with clients to discuss and formalize design ideas to coordinating the budgets and timing of each build phase with his staff (some of whom have been with CLC for over 30 years), Rich Jr. takes pride in seeing his client's vision through to a beautiful reality.
Eric holds a B.S. in psychology and a Landscape Design Certificate. He handles sales and meets with potential clients to discuss their design vision, offering multiple solutions based on budgetary considerations.
More recently, daughter Elissa has helped guide the companies' social media presence, and proud dad Rich Sr. points out her efforts have increased their Instagram presence from 30015K followers.
In addition to hiking in the Adirondacks, where they have a family home, Rich Sr. and Eric have caught the "pickleball" bug."
"It used to be basketball for us in the backyard. Now we are talking about converting the court to pickleball," notes Rich, Sr.
I have the feeling they know the right guys to complete the job.
clcdesign.com
“It used to be basketball for us in the backyard. Now we are talking about converting the court to pickleball,”
- Rich, Sr.
THREE LOCAL MEN FIND COMMUNITY AND PEACE OF MIND AT THE VISTA
Nestled upon 78 stunning acres in the beautiful town of Wyckoff you will find The Vista. The Vista is a premiere retirement community featuring stunning grounds, impeccable amenities and services, and a warm staff that goes above and beyond for their beloved residents.
Community is the key at Christian Health’s The Vista, generating life-long friendships. Three gentlemen who call The Vista home —Carl Anderson, Bill Douma and David Gee—were more than happy to share about their experience as current residents.
Carl Anderson and his wife have lived in Bergen County for over 33 years, after a relocation from Cincinnati. This area is “home”. Carl has been blind since he was fairly young, and made his living in what he lovingly calls “the blind biz” for many years. For the last 8 years, he has been happily retired. He says that choosing The Vista as their home was not only the perfect gift for him and his wife, but also a wonderful gift for his two adult children.
Carl lives a very rich and full life. He believes that he has all of the resources that he and his wife could ever need in The Vista community—for their active life now, and in the future. Christian Health offers assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and more, if ever needed. For now, he is actively involved in the community, and loving every moment in his new home.
“I’m not a great cook,” Carl shares, “but I can just go downstairs to eat. I don’t have to cook very much. The food is incredible!”
He adds, “There is a wonderful support system here. The residents are so welcoming. We like to join them for dinner, and we have our friends and family join us here for dinner, also.” Carl takes comfort in his community, and cherishes it.
Several activities keep him busy at The Vista, like movies, trivia night, and various lectures. His wife enjoys a book club, the games Bridge and Mahjong, and more. He also enjoys exercising every day.
When moving to The Vista, Carl wanted to make sure that the gym, and the entire facility, would be accessible to him, as a blind person. The wonderful staff kindly gave him an orientation to the facility to make sure that he would be comfortable and accustomed to everything around him—like getting to the gym, mailbox, common areas, dining room, etc. This ensured his independence.
These comforts are priceless to Carl. At The Vista, Carl found the perfect balance for his independent spirit, and his unique situation was handled with love and care.
Bill Douma has a life-long tie to the local area. He proudly shared that he attended Ramapo High School followed by studies at Fairleigh Dickinson University at night for 11 years to get his degrees, paid for by the corporations he worked for on his climb up the corporate ladder (Singer Company and BAE Systems—a $17 billion company). He retired in 2008 from his impressive career.
Bill and his loving wife of 60 years decided it was time to move on from their home of 50 years, which led them on a search for their next chapter: a new community. The Vista was the perfect fit.
“This seems to be a really nice place, I thought! A lot of our friends are here from the Midland Park Christian Reformed Church,” Bill cheerfully explains, “The life care plan was what finally convinced us. We absolutely love it here. Capital L-O-V-E it! We love the food, too.”
Bill shared that he and his wife have a daughter who has had cancer for 12 years, whom they adore. The community camaraderie at The Vista, “his extended family”, has been such a huge support system for their family while facing this challenging time. He is so grateful for their support.
Bill is quite social, and as you can imagine, he is an early riser. He enjoys going to the lobby for pastries, fruit, coffee, and “great conversation”. Another favorite is the on-site Performing Arts Center, which he thoroughly enjoys.
CONTINUED >
Born and raised in New York City, David Gee has enjoyed 50 years of living in various local towns. Now retired, he and his wife were looking to simply just “enjoy life”. The Vista was the perfect spot to call home.
“It checked all the boxes,” David explains, “It had everything that we were looking for.”
“The food is terrific,” David states, “and they have a gym and a pool. There are a lot of activities here, which keeps us busy in our retirement. The biggest thing for my wife and I was the life care here. It’s peace of mind.”
David continues, “We go to the gym here four or five days a week. My wife just came back from playing Mahjong. They have an auditorium here and they have a lot of concerts, musicians and guest speakers, and that’s very interesting.”
David and his wife have a two bedroom—a master bedroom and a den. He likes that they have plenty of room for keep-sakes and a couch that pulls out for when their children visit. David also enjoys the beautiful Vista grounds and the trees. His favorite thing is the community.
“It worked out great for us! We’re just happy here,” David states, “It’s well beyond what we could have imagined.” CONTINUED
“The facility itself is beautiful. It’s new and very attractive,” shares the executive director, Ellen Debel, “The grounds are immaculate. Right now there are 3,000 daffodil bulbs blooming in our front circle! The grand arcade has tall ceilings —lots of light—with modern but comfortable furnishings. But, what’s really important at the Vista is the sense of community.”
“The people who live here and the people who work here, have made this a very special place to live,” Ellen continues, “The Vista is an independent living community, but there are certain supports in place so that you can remain independent as long as possible.”
There are over 200 programs offered each month for the 197 residents, which include entertainment, education, fitness and more.
“It’s a very robust program with something for everyone,” Ellen explains.
Residents love the music programs, golf simulator, pingpong, games, arts and crafts, and charitable opportunities for showing care to residents and others. Their knitting
group recently made hats, gloves, and scarves for people in the Ukraine. There is a sense of purpose, with committees in the community that create many programs.
The men on site enjoy a variety of classes, like “brushes and beer”—a painting class specifically geared to men— or “baseball, beer, and fellowship”, for example. Golf is an independent activity that residents really enjoy, which helps them prepare for different golf courses.
They also enjoy local events. Recently, residents participated in the Wyckoff PBA cornhole tournament, with regular practice sessions, etc. They also took part in a local Veterans tribute in town.
Carl, Bill, and David are truly inspiring men who each care deeply for their families and community. Each is living their life fully, making sure that their future is secure. Each agrees that the quality of care and sense of community at The Vista gives them, and so many others, peace of mind. Be sure to schedule a visit to The Vista to explore the gorgeous grounds and facilities.
thevista.org
Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.
If you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.
On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.
As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.
Marie Olson, Sc.D.,CCC-A
Aid
Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.
There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads:
Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)
Practice your short game every day.
You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.
Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green. 02.
Lic #936 531 N. Maple Avenue Ridgewood, NJ 07450 www.sophisticatedhearing.com
JUNE 3RD
Paul Anka: Seven Decades Tour
30 N Van Brunt St, Englewood, NJ 07631 | 7:00 PM
Paul Anka is performing his Seven Decades Tour at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood. Tickets available at www.bergenpac. org/events/detail/paul-anka-seven-decades-tour
JUNE 7TH
The Connolly bros. & Guardian Angel Church Carnival
320 Franklin Turnpike, Allendale, NJ | 7:00 PM
The Connolly Bros. will be performing in this year's Carnival at Guardian Angel Church in Allendale, NJ this June!
JUNE 8TH
Intro to Shinrin-yoku
4 Barnstable Court #4, Saddle River NJ 07458 | 10:00 AM
A guided nature walk/meditation with Sage & Sound Holistic Wellness, followed by nature-inspired craft and tea with cookies. Sign up at Bayouofsaddleriver.com
JUNE 11TH
(The Hermitage) 335 Franklin Turnpike Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423 | 4:00 PM
This year the June Jamboree will be held at The Hermitage - A National Historic Landmark! More information can be found at thehermitage.org
JUNE 14TH
Sound Healing Meditation Event
96 East Allendale Road Saddle River, NJ 07458 | 7:00 AM
The use of sound to find peace, meditate and reflect, is an age old practice that has deep ties to ancient traditions. Explore more with Body Positive Works. www.eventbrite.com/e/sound-healing-meditation-event-saddle-river-nj-june-14th-tickets-858870222957
JUNE 20TH
Upper Saddle River LOVE Scavenger Hunt - Date Night!
245 Lake Street Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458 | 1:00 PM
CITY LOVE SCAVENGER HUNT Date For Couples (Self-Guided)... Enjoy your city scavenger hunt with fun digital activities along the way! www.eventbrite.com/e/upper-saddle-river-love-scavenger-hunt-for-couples-date-night-tickets-823275427967
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