Northwest Bergen, NJ July 2023

WE HOPE YOU NEVER NEED US

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I hope this letter finds you lying by the pool or lake and soaking in some much-needed Vitamin D.

As the days grow longer and the weather gets warmer, I find myself eagerly anticipating the arrival of July 4th and all that summer has to offer. There's just something about this season that brings about a sense of excitement and adventure.

Sure, Fall has my favorite flavors and scents, Winter has its cozy charms and I can't deny the beauty of Spring. But when the Summer solstice rolls around, I’m more than ready for the long, languid days sitting by the pool or floating on a boat.

The pages in our Summer Fun issue will help you make the most of this season in Northwest Bergen. And even if Summer doesn't mean three months of summer vacation anymore (because we're, you know, adults) we can still look forward to an adventure by crossing things off our ultimate Summer bucket list (check the table of contents for ours!) and curling up with a new favorite beach read. (P.S. Teachers, you deserve this much-needed break!)

My family loves to spend time at a summer concert or two each year or take some much-needed time at the pool or beach. There's something about listening to music and enjoying the water that is so rejuvenating and refreshing.

First off, let's get the summer going by making a call to Don Brennan, owner of  Aquaspace by Masterson Pools . You know you've been dreaming about a custom-designed pool, patio, spa, and living space, so why stop now? And how about some brand-new, top-of-the-line furniture and accessories from Backyard Living in Ridgewood? Stay local and get that personal service with Beth and Patrick Connor; you'll be thrilled you did!

And last but certainly not least, let's get ready for some music from New Jersey. I never realized the quantity and quality of the musical artists that have their roots in New Jersey; totally incredible! Have a read about Midland Park resident Randy Rodriguez, the producer of The Jersey Sound , his soon-to-be-released documentary.

Just like this season has a way of bringing people together, we hope the pages inside this month’s issue will enrich and enliven your experience of Northwest Bergen this Summer!

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Marc Schwartz | marc.schwartz@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lucy Probert | lucy.probert@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Sammi Tatarsky | sammi.tatarsky@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITERS

Donna Gould | donna.gould@citylifestyle.com

Giulia Silverstein

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Nancy Motto

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Aquaspace by Masterson Pools, Backyard Living, The Jersey Sound

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Giulia Silverstein

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

city scene

Where

neighbors can see and be seen.

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Tag your Instagram photos with @NorthwestBergenLifestyle

1: Runners take off on the 12th Annual Susan Zabransky Hughes Memorial 5K Run. 2: Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation receives over $100K benefitting cervical cancer research. 3: Runners celebrate as they approach the finish line. 4: Hackensack Meridian Health hosted a 5K Run in honor of Susan Zabranksy in Saddle River. 5: Local heroes show support for The 12th Annual Susan Zabransky Hughes Memorial Run. 6: Bystanders cheer on the runners in the rain. 7: Runners brave the rain to raise money for cervical cancer research.

Photography by Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Rosie's Bagel Cafe Opening in Ridgewood

The owners of Goldberg’s in Pompton Lakes are expanding and bringing their bagels to Ridgewood. Rosie’s Bagel Café will be nestled next to Ridgewood Bootery and will take over the storefront that was formally Everything Bagel. Gluten-free foodies, unite. Goldberg's offers a variety of gluten-free bagels, so we're eager to see what Rosie's will offer. Stroll in for a bagel and a cup of joe before meandering down to Bookends to find a good read.

081 Cafe Opens in HoHoKus

Calling all carb lovers—081 Café has officially opened, and their menu is quite impressive. The name pays tribute to the owners’ family’s hometown area code in Naples, Italy. Dine on authentic Italian cuisine and custom pizza cooked in an imported wood-burning brick oven. Think: oldschool dishes, generational family recipes, and a family history of serving their local communities. Their intimate space creates an ambient setting for a special night out. 081cafe.com

Rock N' The Grill Now Open in Glen Rock

If you’re looking for your new summer spot, look no further. Rock N’ The Grill offers an extensive menu, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegans, rejoice. Their vegan menu includes 18 options, ranging from egg-substitute dishes to Impossible Burgers and beyond. An establishment that combines the two greatest comfort foods into one dish--pizza and burgers--deserves a special spot in our hearts. We have a feeling these eats will rock your world! rocknthegrill.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/NorthwestBergen

Photography: Sammi Tatarsky

Photography: Sammi Tatarsky

Photography: Sammi Tatarsky

Everybody in the Pool!

A MORNING FOR LAPS, AN AFTERNOON TO SUNBATHE, AND AN EVENING TO REST.

ARTICLE BY DONNA GOULD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AQUASPACE BY MASTERSON POOLS

Don Brennan is passionate about pools. A developer and general contractor with over 30 years of experience, he has always had a soft spot for backyard living. So, when he decided that it was time to turn his passion into a career, he looked no further than Masterson Pools.

“Masterson has set the standard for inground swimming pool construction throughout Bergen County and northern New Jersey since 1979,” says Don, who purchased the company from founder Tom Masterson two years ago and renamed it Aquaspace by Masterson. “Tom is protective of the company’s hard-earned reputation for being quality-driven, and he wanted to be certain that we were going to carry on his vision. We are thrilled that he and his son, Kelly, have committed to remaining actively engaged in the business.”

Tom and Kelly Masterson bring decades of experience designing and building luxury vinyl and concrete pools and patio projects utilizing the highest quality materials and state-of-the-art, energy-efficient equipment. By leveraging his background in large commercial projects, Don has provided the resources and support the company needed to improve efficiency and take advantage of new technologies as it strives to build even better quality projects. “Other pool companies talk about how many swimming pools they have built, but we have a different approach,” says Don. “We focus on making our customers happy by producing well-built, aesthetically pleasing pools and delivering them on time. And we will never compromise our product.”

Masterson has fine-tuned the process of turning their customers’ swimming pool dreams into a reality. Their team of

experienced professionals is dedicated to making sure customers are comfortable every step of the way. “Some people know exactly what they want and make decisions quickly, while others might take years to move forward on a project. We want the process to be enjoyable for everyone, so we never push. We work at each customer’s pace.”

Whether you want a simple inground pool or an all-inclusive luxury backyard experience, Masterson will provide as much or as little support as you need. “For customers who want to handle every aspect of the project themselves, we will just build the pool and give them helpful advice,” says Don. “We are also a one-stop source for those who have no desire to be general contractors. Our team of designers, engineers, builders, masons, and skilled craftsmen will manage every aspect of the project from concept to completion.”

At Masterson, the design and installation process is broken down into several phases to help homeowners manage what is often a massive – and sometimes overwhelming – undertaking.

STEP 1: ASSESSMENT

The Masterson team begins each project by determining what the customer is looking for. If you are not quite sure where to start, they will visit your home and make an

assessment of the property. “There are a number of factors to consider, in particular your summer lifestyle and how you plan to use the pool,” says Don. “Do you have a young family with kids? Do you entertain a lot? Do you want to relax and float around or swim a few laps each morning? Our goal is to design and build the swimming pool that fits your needs and imagination.” When the team has a clear picture of your criteria and timing, they will provide a recommendation and a proposed budget.

“We focus on making our customers happy by producing well-built, aesthetically pleasing pools and delivering them on time. And we will never compromise our product.”

STEP 2: DESIGN

Once a budget is established, the project moves on to the design phase. Masterson charges a nominal design fee that is credited towards the cost of the project if you decide to move on to the next step. “Tom has an established reputation for designing projects with a single goal in mind: to make sure the customer is completely happy with the result,” says Don. “We can revise and refine the budget as we go, and once the design work is complete, we provide you with a final proposal. When you’re ready to move forward with the project, you sign it, we create the contract, and it’s off to the races.”

If you dream of enjoying a pool next summer, when do you need to start planning for it? Don advises that while less complex projects can be completed in six to eight weeks, it is best to begin planning now. “Ideally, we would be able to start construction

in the fall and have all of the hardscapes completed before the cold weather sets in. When spring comes, we just need to do the landscaping and pool start-up, and you’re ready to enjoy your new backyard lifestyle.”

Masterson prides itself on providing award-winning customer service that is rooted in personal attention and continuous communication. “My cell number is on my business card, and we have an entire team here to answer questions and keep customers informed about our progress,” says Don, who uses sophisticated software to monitor every step of every project, every step of the way. “The best customers are excited customers. We do everything we can to make this experience as exciting and stress-free as possible, so all you have to do is bring your towel and suntan lotion!”

aquaspacebymasterson.com

COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY

Ethan and the Bean works to increase the employment rate for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities in New Jersey. Visions shares their commitment to provide an empowering environment that supports individuals in the workplace that’s part of community growth. Visions supports hundreds of causes like Ethan and the Bean with donations to fund good works, employee volunteers who pay it forward, and sponsorships that support community events. Because Visions Cares, where you bank can help you and your community. cares

PAMELA DONOVAN

Founder, Ethan and the Bean

Backyard Living

Elevating Your Outdoor Space

ARTICLE BY LUCY PROBERT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BACKYARD LIVING AND NANCY MOTTO

For the highest quality outdoor furniture, décor, and accessories transforming outdoor patios and pools into picture-perfect and comfortable spaces for over 20 years, Backyard Living in Ridgewood has been the go-to place. New owners Patrick and Beth Connor had a simple objective when they purchased the store earlier this year: Keep in place a business that has been doing it right for two decades. “What we fell in love with there was what we want to continue with going forward,” says Patrick. “When Beth and I first came in right away it ticked a lot of the boxes you look for in a new venture; a successful local business with loyal customers, an incredibly dedicated staff, who

are continuing to work for us, and being part of an incredible community.”

With a store that’s over 5,000 square feet of furniture and much more, customers are invited to settle in and try out the merchandise. “There is something about touching and sitting on furniture that really helps you make the right decisions,” says Beth. “We also have a wide range of fabric and finish samples from each collection to see and feel.” And as an interior decorator, Beth’s passion has now extended to outdoor spaces. “In a design consultation, I can help with spatial planning and make suggestions for different options of furniture, décor, and lighting to fit our clients’ own design styles.”

Patrick and Beth Connor

What sets them apart from big box stores and shopping online? “There are a few major things,” says Patrick. “In the larger stores, you might see the same line of furniture pieces for a whole season; you’re likely paying for delivery, you probably have to set it up yourself and the warranty might last only 90 days. At Backyard Living we’re always sourcing new and different items with every order. We have white-glove delivery and set-up service that’s free to all customers in Bergen County. We can do that as a smaller store.” Patrick has also been known to spend part of his day going to customers’ homes making sure the set-up is satisfactory.

The furniture lines they sell are top tier so although pricier, they’re second to none in quality, Patrick says. “Outstanding outdoor designer furniture brands like Brown Jordan, Kingsley Bate, Gloster, Barlow Tyrie, and Polywood have strong reputations and amazing warranties, from three or five to 20 years, whether they’re made of metal or teak.” He adds that when it comes to outdoor lighting, with the evolution of LEDs, battery and solar power, they offer great options. “Outdoor lighting doesn’t always have to be fixed on the house, it can be used to decorate, to add a mood or accent, it can change how a space feels at night.”

Among the décor and accessories, their offerings come in all price ranges and include summer party hostess gifts like

tablescape serving pieces (platters, bowls) gardening tools and bird feeders (“we sell them as fast as they come in,” says Patrick). Faux flower arrangements like wreaths or tabletop décor can be customized by their in-house floral designer and gift wrapping is always available.

And when fall hits the festivities start. In September, Backyard Living begins its multi-month transition into an incredible holiday shop with colorfully lighted trees and decorations throughout. “After we close out the summer furniture side of things, the store is completely transformed, all 5000 plus square feet. Everything comes down, moved out and the holiday gear goes up,” says Patrick.

Patrick and Beth live in Wyckoff with their seven-year-old daughter, and Paul’s 20-year-old daughter is an incoming senior at the University of Texas. Being part of the community where they live and work has become important to them. “We have donated 50/50 raffle tickets to charities and nonprofits in the area and plan to do a lot more of that in the future,” says Beth.

“I grew up in Woodcliff Lake and moved around a bit, but Bergen County is our home now, this is where we want to dig our roots in and be part of this store, an institution that’s been so lovely and so loved for the last 22 years.”

bylnj.com

“In a design consultation, I can help with spatial planning and make suggestions for different options of furniture, décor, and lighting to fit our clients’ own design styles.”

THE JERSEY SOUND

SOUNDS OF SUMMER

In 2019, Midland Park resident Randy Dominguez was smoking at Wyckoff’s Brick House when he met actor and producer Fulvio Cecere. Fortuitous bonding over their Cuban heritage and love of cigars sparked life-changing career moves. Now, four years later, the duo is wrapping up their interview-based documentary on New Jersey’s music history called The Jersey Sound.

ARTICLE BY GIULIA SILVERSTEIN

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE JERSEY SOUND

Coming

Metallica and Johnny Zazula

Al DiMeola

Rufus Reid

Dominguez, born José Rolando Dominguez, moved to Manhattan’s Upper West Side from Cuba in 1959. He was ten years old and worked hard to achieve the American Dream. He was drafted into the Vietnam War at 18 when his love for music blossomed. Returning from war, he immersed himself in business, serving a variety of notable companies, including Merrill Lynch. He bided the rush of corporate America adieu, though, at 73 and retired to Midland Park.

The transition from a fast-paced career to idle retirement is challenging. Dominguez decided to devote his time to charity but still had voids to fill. So, he jumped at the opportunity to help Cecere with his then-embryonic film idea. Over 295 musicians have been interviewed. Dominguez is now the Executive Producer and is thinking of starting his own production company.

WHAT IS THE DOCUMENTARY ABOUT?

The concept was to do a documentary film on the history of music in New Jersey and its musicians. New Jersey has more musicians per capita than any other state. New Jersey is unique in that it has transitioned over time through all the genres and continues to do that. Chicago has the Chicago Blues, there’s a Philadelphia sound, and there’s New Orleans jazz. Each of them is different, but they’re generic in that they stay within their sphere. New Jersey transitioned through every genre. The musicians that contributed have all sorts of unique stories. But, each reports a distinct attitude toward the New Jersey music industry.

WHEN DID YOU REALIZE YOUR PASSION FOR MUSIC?

When I was in and coming back from Vietnam, listening to music allowed me to escape the moment. At the time, you probably had some of the best music that ever came out in the history of the world. I was part of that because I could listen. I had built up a record collection for my stereo system so soldiers could come over, hang out, have a beer, and listen to music.

WHAT CHILDHOOD MEMORY SHAPED WHO YOU ARE TODAY?

A question I get asked all the time is, “Why do you have no or a very minimal accent?” When I was about 14, I went to see my friend. As I’m waiting for him, a neighborhood fellow comes over to me. I had a heavy accent at that time. I’m not even sure if I can mimic it because it was so long ago. He goes, “You a smart guy. You’re gonna do really good, I know this, but I gotta give you one piece of advice.” You gotta get rid of your accent. When you are in business, you don’t want nobody to know where you are from. You’re kinda white, so they’re not gonna be able to pick up you’re Latino. That’s good for you because it gives you the upper hand.” So I went to my English teacher, who told me to read MAD magazine out loud in front of a mirror. Effectively, I was able to transition.

IS THERE A PARTICULAR MUSIC GROUP INTERVIEW IN THE FILM THAT STANDS OUT?

We [Dominguez and Fulvio] went so far as to identify the different music originating from New Jersey.

“New Jersey has more musicians per capita than any other state. NJ is unique in that it has transitioned over time through all the genres and continues to do that.”

Charlie Calello and The Four Seasons

Lou Pallo and Les Paul

Tommy James

The Smithereens

Uncle Floyd

Jay Jay French

Bruce Springsteen

Carmine Appice

Joey Dee

The first was the Lenni Lenape Indian Tribe based in Mahwah. Obviously, it’s drums. It’s part of their culture and the integration of their values. In the movie, some senior members play a drum set for us at one of their events. For me, getting a Native American aspect incorporated into the film and explaining their historical value towards New Jersey and its music, is very important.

WHAT PRODUCTION ELEMENT ARE YOU PROUDEST OF?

I’ve always liked cartoons before movies. When you used to go to a movie theater, there was always a prequel to the film. It was fun and got kids engaged. I thought, let’s do something here in animation that will resonate. The character we chose was a seagull because many of our logos resonate in Asbury Park. You’ll see the seagull flying, and he’s got an attitude. He eventually lands on an old-time microphone, pulls this guitar, and plays a doo-wop song, which is absolutely fabulous.

WHAT TRENDS OCCUR THROUGHOUT EACH INTERVIEW?

We start each interview with “What is the Jersey sound?” The responses are all about the attitude of Jersey musicians towards music, New Jersey, and other musicians. New Jersey musicians share information with each other and help each other improve. They work together to keep improving, develop great products, and support each other.

thejerseysound.com

Christian McBride

Fulvio Cecere, Mike Greenblatt, and Randy Dominguez at The Brick House in Wyckoff

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

Elton Johnish: Tribute to Elton John

MAHWAH LIBRARY | 2:00 PM

Throw on your blue jeans, baby and head over to a concert by Andrew Schwarz paying tribute to Elton John. Jam out to classics like Bennie and the Jets, Crocodile Rock, and Tiny Dancer; then slow it down and sway along to deeper cuts like Madman Across the Water, All the Girls Love Alice, and Funeral For a Friend. mahwah.librarycalendar.com

Glen Rock Tribute Run

ROCK RD AT THE INTERSECTION OF MAIN STREET & RODNEY STREET | 8:00 AM

Before enjoying the patriotic July 4th Glen Rock parade, lace up your sneakers for a 5k run through the town. Proceeds from the run will go towards G.R.A.C.E—an organization set up after 9/11 to aid bereaved family members after the terrorist attacks. In honor of the 11 victims from Glen Rock, G.R.A.C.E. provides scholarrunsignup.com

RIDGEWOOD MEMORIAL PARK AT VAN NESTE SQUARE | 6:30 PM

You’re strolling through Ridgewood on your way to dinner with friends. You stop at an outdoor art exhibit in the park. You browse through paintings and find the perfect piece to hang above your mantle. Does this sound like the perfect evening? Mark it down on your calendar and support local artists.  ridgewoodguild.com

Melanie Acevedo Photography

Their first years. Our first priority.

A child’s natural curiosity is boundless. By nurturing that with a thoughtful balance of play and structure, we spark lightbulb moments every day. Learn how our approach inspires a lifelong love of discovery. Enrolling Infants-Kindergarten

NOW ENROLLING SUMMER 2023

Picture yourself Picture yourself LIVING HERE ,

At The Vista, you can fill each day with uplifting experiences. Attend a concert, lecture, or art class. Get a manicure at the salon. Stay fit in an aquatic class or along picturesque walking trails.

Watch stunning sunsets while dining on the terrace with friendly neighbors. Enjoy all of this in a richly wooded Ramapo Mountain setting. Picture yourself inspired. Picture yourself at The Vista.

community that inspires you to discover, engage, connect, and grow.