Pascack Valley, NJ February 2023

Local Love

F O O D + B E V E R AG E

B E AU T Y

M I N DY ’ S MU NCH IES: LI FE H APPENS ...

CH O CO L ATE H ELPS!

PO LISH ED PU B H AIR AN D N AIL BAR: PRET T Y IN PIN K

F I N A N C E + LE G A L S E RV I C E S

D O N ATO FIN AN CIAL GROU P: TH E B OUTIQU E FIN AN CIAL FIRM WITH A PERSO N AL TOUCH

F E B R UA RY 2 02 3

creating beautiful, healthy smiles is our

top priority

Dr. Samuel P. Mufson

Dr. Joseph A. Lota

Dr. Megan Gauthier

Dr. Vincent Capazzi

Dr. Christopher G. Lota

Smiles for all ages.

Located in Woodcliff Lake in Bergen County, Chestnut Ridge Dental Associates are proud to provide our surrounding communities with all phases of cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Our doctors and oral surgeons use the most advanced technologies to keep you safe and provide compassionate, affordable and complete dental care for all members of your family. At Chestnut Ridge Dental, we are a comprehensive dental practice seeing anyone from pediatrics to geriatrics. For your convenience, we have Saturday and evening appointments as well as 24/7 emergency after hours coverage.

INSTAGRAM @chestnutridgedental FACEBOOK Chestnut Ridge Dental

201.391.4466

595 Chestnut Ridge Road | Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677

chestnutridgedental.com

ACCEP RE T A

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Schedule Your Appointment Today!

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GENERAL DENTISTRY COSMETIC & RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY · VENEERS · DENTAL IMPLANTS INVISALIGN · PERIODONTICS · ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY PEDIATRICS · WHITE COMPOSITE FILLINGS · CEREC SAME DAY CROWNS SNORE GUARD/SLEEP APNEA APPLIANCES EMERGENCY DENTAL CARE · MORE

NEW PATIENTS

LIFESTYLE LETTER

February Local Love

February 2023 PUBLISHER

Anthony Rizzo | anthony.rizzo@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Kris Pepper | kris.pepper@citylifestyle.com

While we teeter between the chill of January winter and the excitement of spring, we hope you’ll be inspired to take a moment to come together with the people in your life. The ones in your home and on your street. In your neighborhood and your community.

“Love local” means your local businesses, those in your community - but it also means loving what is nearby. Those under your own roof included. So, grab a coffee at Vale Coffee Shoppe in River Vale and head home for a game night around the fire with the family. Or snag some beer from Five Dimes Brewery in Westwood and a prepared meal from B&M Food Market in Park Ridge and indulge in a movie night.

This month we sat down with Nick Donato of Donato Financial Group in Park Ridge which will be celebrating its 50th anniversary this year to learn about their unique boutique-style firm. We also stopped by Polished Pub Hair and Nail Bar in Park Ridge to chat with owner, Natalie Lamorena who has trademarked her famous “headicure.” Lastly, we had the pleasure of learning how Mindy Mosca, owner of Mindy’s Munchies went from making chocolate-covered treats in her home to having a chocolate shop in River Vale, New Jersey and Boca Raton, Florida.

We’ve always believed what we can do together is so much more than what we can do apart. And we continue to see that demonstrated through the many stories told in these pages month after month.

Thanks for letting us be a part of the life you’re building, whatever that may look like.

Our hope is that we inspire you to love it just a bit more than you did before.

Happy February!

Anthony Rizzo

STAFF PHOTOGR APHER S

Jeremy Lebled, Charissa H. Yong SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Lucille Scharback | lucille.scharback@citylifestyle.com

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 Joah Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

ANTHONY RIZZO, PUBLISHER @PA SC ACK VA LLE YCIT Y LIFE S T Y LE

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT Y LIFE S T Y LE.COM / PA SC ACK VA LLE Y |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Pascack Valley City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Pascack Valley area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Pascack Valley City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

inside the issue The Local Love Issue

26

20

16

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 Mindy’s Munchies

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

12

Local Experiences

16

Local’s Choice

20

Self Care

B EAU T Y

26

Must See

FI NA NC E + LEGA L S ERV IC E S

30

Events

31

Realty Report

33

Chef ’s Selection

Life Happens...Chocolate Helps!

20 Polished Pub Pretty in Pink

26 Donato Financial Group

The Boutique Financial Firm with a Personal Touch

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Charissa H. Yong A look inside Mindy’s Munchies store in River Vale, NJ.

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FO O D + B EV ER AG E

R EA L ESTAT E FO O D + B EV E R AG E

Live each moment with

Meaning

ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE C O M I N G S O O N T O T H E T O W N S H I P O F WA S H I N G T O N Features •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Spacious studio, 1-2 bedroom apartments with en suite bathroom (select units available with balconies) 24/7 professional nursing services Weekly housekeeping Weekly laundry and linen service 3 chef-prepared meals, daily On-site maintenance personnel On-site therapy services with FOX Rehab Full calendar of interactive and engaging activities Themed parties Sports bar with balcony for social hour and events Beautifully appointed common areas and courtyard Bistro Movie Theater Club Room Activities Center Transportation service Planned group outings Leasing center: 261B Pascack Road Township of Washington, NJ 07676 (Located in shopping center)

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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MS. MARY DOHERTY

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NAYDA RONDON

2 @MIXOLOGYWOODCLIFFLAKE

7 MS. MARY DOHERTY

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LUCILLE SCHARBACK

PRISCILLA LETO

OSCAR ALVAREZ PHOTOGRAPHY

1: Hillsdale Environmental Commission members and PV National Honors Society students participated in Hillsdale Fall Cleanup Day. 2: Polished Pub in Park Ridge hosted a Christmas Botox party with Hello Hydration of Paramus. 3: Pascack Valley High School art students showcase talents with holiday window scene. 4: The PVHS Environmental Club partnered with “Second Chance Toys” to keep used toys out of landfills. 5: Ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening for Emerson Dairy Queen. 6: Ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening for Mixology Clothing Company Woodcliff Lake. 7: LaMirage Jewelers in Park Ridge hosted Santa photos for their friends and customers.

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C I T Y SC E N E

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @PascackValleyCityLifestyle

@FRANTVISUALS

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@WOODCLIFFLAKEPD

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@FRANTVISUALS

8: Home For The Holidays parade in downtown Westwood. 9: Home For The Holidays parade in downtown Westwood. 10: This year’s Annual PBA Toy Drive was once again a huge success.

Fertility & Pregnancy Health

Labor & Birth

Postpartum Healing & Care

Butta’s Holistic Services has teamed up with Healing from Within Acupuncture, located in Englewood Cliffs, to offer all inclusive fertility and pregnancy packages.

Dr. Soo Kim and I have been partners in wellness, bridging the gap between Ancient Chinese medicine, modern herbalism and holistic wellness. We’ve worked together to formulate care packages that benefit couples struggling with infertility, those preparing the body for pregnancy, pregnant clients and postpartum clients who may deal with physical as well as emotional disorders.

By combining the care we give, we give birthing persons a truly hands-on experience in their fertility and pregnancy journeys that sustain wellness and creates harmony

(From left to right) Acupuncturist Na-Lee, Dr. Soo Kim & Chey the Holistic Doula

SPECIALTIES: - YOUNG/TEENAGE BIRTHING PERSONS

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

business monthly Transform Your Vehicle

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Back to New Hackensack Meridian Pascack Valley Medical Center Receives An Award The Communicable Disease Service of the New Jersey Department of Health has recognized Hackensack Meridian Pascack Valley Medical Center as a 2022 Antimicrobial Steward. This award recognizes facilities that have promoted antimicrobial stewardship practices that encourage and maintain the health of patients, personnel, and the general New Jersey population.

Photography Hackensack Meridian Pascack Valley Medical Center

COLLISION REPAIRS

PAINTING

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PROFESSIONAL & COURTEOUS STAFF ON-SITE CARE | RENTAL CARS | 24/7 TOWING

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Want to be featured?

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

REJUVENATE • RESTORE • RECOVERY

We come to you!

MUSCLE FIX

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Dr. Larry Stiefel of Tenafly Pediatrics Co-Authors Children's Book Dr. Larry Stiefel of Tenafly Pediatrics and his wife Chana Stiefel recently co-authored a children's book titled, Mendel's Hanukkah Mess Up, illustrated by Daphna Awadish.

Photography @tenaflypediatrics

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OVER 210

Second Honoree For 2023 Citizens Of The Year Announced The Greater Pascack Valley Chamber Of Commerce is happy to announce Dee Gillen as the second honoree for 2023 Citizens of the Year. Dee founded The Black Poster Project in 2019 after losing her son, Scott, to an overdose in 2015. The project has grown exponentially in the three years since its inception, from 50 awareness posters to over 500 and counting. Dee handmakes each poster for the grieving families.

Photography Greater Pascack Valley Chamber Of Commerce

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

From restaurants, shops, artists and more, show your love and support to Pascack Valley's creatives and visionaries. Enjoy these local establishments that you’re sure to fall for while giving back to our community’s economy simultaneously.

Our Picks to Show Your Local Love B & M MEAT MAR KET: Look no further than B&M Meat Market for specialty butcher services for your choice of fresh, premium cuts of meat prepared to suit your preferences. 146 Kinderkamack Road Park Ridge, NJ GALLER Y 270 : Relish in fine art from modern emerging photographers employing traditional processes from around the world. 270 Westwood Ave, Westwood, NJ EIGHTYTWENTY SMASH: Check out Westwood's newest popup smashers inside B&S Kitchen every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening. There are tables to dine in or you can order take-out. 48 Westwood Ave Westwood, NJ PASCACK HISTOR ICAL SOCIETY: Dive into thousands of objects, artifacts, and ephemera that chronicle life in Pascack Valley from the Lenape Indian days until the present. 19 Ridge Ave, Park Ridge, NJ FIVE DIMES BR EWER Y: Enjoy a locally brewed beer in downtown Westwood. Drink local, it makes "cents" at Five Dimes Brewery! 247 Westwood Avenue Westwood, NJ

Eightytwenty Smash

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Photography by @eightytwentysmash

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Celebrate Westwood | @celebratewestwood Formed in 2018 to organize Westwood’s 125th Anniversary Year festivities, Celebrate Westwood has evolved as a non-profit organization creating events to amplify the richness of the local community.

Through collaboration with the borough, businesses, nonprofits, and residents Celebrate Westwood hosts Westwood Fest, Arts on the Avenues, Shop the Hub, Art in the Park, Early New Year’s Eve, and projects like the community quilt and cookbook. Founders, RoseAnn Ciarlante & Lauren Letizia support local businesses and picked these hometown establishments in hopes of spreading the growth and patronage of our communities best.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

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Owner Mindy Mosca Helping A Customer

Mindy’s Munchies Life Happens...Chocolate Helps!

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARISSA H. YONG

Mindy's Munchies River Vale, NJ Store

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LOCA L’S CH OICE | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Mindy Mosca discovered the sweet side of life over twenty years ago in her own kitchen. “I started making chocolate-covered treats as a hobby out of my home,” she says. “It was always something I liked to do—making gifts for friends or school functions. When we moved to Old Tappan from Fort Lee, I met many new people doing house parties.” Her business established credibility throughout the Pascack Valley community and eventually, with encouragement from her husband, Harry, Mindy established a catalog, website, and retail store in 2006. She moved to her current location at 215 Rivervale Road in River Vale several years later.

“She comes up with delicious combinations which have become extremely popular.

Her Marshmallow Mountain, Coconut Bliss, Cookie Butter Cups, and French Toast clusters are amazing,” says Harry.

“Word-of-mouth advertising is great in this community,” says Mindy. “I have many corporate clients who have stayed with me for a long time, which is awesome. But I love being in the store and seeing my customers who keep coming back over the years. Many of them bought my products when I was just starting out. I remember their kids being small, and now they ship my products to those same kids in college!”

Mindy and her family have put in the effort— building the business on hard work and a bit of luck. “I had the opportunity to be on QVC for many years which helped me reach markets around the country,” she says. “I just shipped an order to Texas today.” Mindy has appeared

on ABC 7's “Neighborhood Eats” with Lauren Glassberg, which spurned on the development of a crowd favorite, the Marshmallow Mountain, a mouthwatering combination of chocolate-covered fluffy marshmallow, buttery caramel, and toffee.

“Being on television for three minutes in the tri-state area was incredible. Our website crashed with the number of orders that came in,” says Mindy. “They wanted me to feature something new, so I came up with the Marshmallow Mountain.” ABC News journalist Nina Pineda visited the shop for a Valentine’s Day segment several years ago, and Mindy’s Munchies also had the honor of being highlighted as Rachel Ray’s “Snack of the Day.” Mindy has a talent for developing delicious combinations of chocolate-covered treats that make her goodies stand out from the others. “I want to create things that you can only get at Mindy’s Munchies, so I experiment with many fun combinations,” she says. “However, I also know it’s important to balance the new items with traditional, well-loved favorites like chocolate-covered pretzels and peanut butter cups. People are loyal to what they love.”

The business has become a part of the family. Mindy’s husband worked in corporate America for over 25 years and decided to join her five years ago. “It was a quality-of-life decision,” says Mindy. “He wanted to help the business grow, and we wanted to do it together.

My sons have been working here since they were little because it’s important to develop a

“Her Marshmallow Mountain, Coconut Bliss, Cookie Butter Cups, and French Toast clusters are amazing.”

CONTINUED >

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/PASCAC KVA L L E Y

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“…I love being in the store, and seeing my customers who keep coming back over the years.” strong work ethic. Now when they come home from college, it’s right to work!”

Mindy was able to open a second location at 8182 Glades Road in Boca Raton, Florida thanks to her niece, Samantha, whose lifelong dream was to work in the chocolate shop.

She was eager to jump in and run Mindy’s second store immediately after finishing college. “I made sure she spent the craziness of a holiday season with us before allowing her to get involved,” says Mindy. “She had to be truly ready to take it all on!”

Owner Mindy Mosca M I N DYS M U N C H I E S .C O M

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LOCA L’S CH OICE | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Valentine’s Day specialties are the ever-popular chocolate-covered pretzels and delicious chocolate-covered strawberries donned with wonderful drizzles and toppings.

The store sells chocolate combination platters of all sizes, adorably packaged for any occasion or season, thanks to Mindy’s branding expertise. If your Valentine lives far away, don’t worry—they ship all over the country. Mindy and her team also host children’s birthday parties at the store.

“This is a feel-good place, and I want people to get a happy vibe when they walk through the door,” she says.

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P O L ISH E D PUB Pretty in Pink

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARISSA H. YONG

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S ELF CA R E | BEAU TY

Step into Polished Pub Hair and Nail Bar, and you will quickly realize that this is not a typical hair salon.

Gleaming in gold and pink tones with splashes of neon, Polished Pub is one of those places that makes you ask, “why didn’t someone think of this before?”

From a young age, owner Natalie Lamorena had always wanted to go into the beauty business; however, her parents encouraged her to go to college first.

“I got my bachelor’s in business management and then went on to beauty school, where I focused on hair,” says Natalie. “When I started working in full-service salons, I realized there was a need for something new and different.” She began paying close attention to the preferences and desires of her customers.

“Clients who come for a blowout simply want to look and feel great when they leave the salon— they also love a good hair wash,” says Natalie. She noticed that clients had to rush between hair and nail appointments before a big event. “It seemed that people always need those services together, but there was nowhere that provided a combined experience,” says Natalie.

Thus, Natalie innovated the “headicure” (and yes, she trademarked that term), a service combining a wash and blowout with a manicure. She opened her business on Park Avenue in Park Ridge in 2021 and never looked back, signing the lease in March of 2020 and using the downtime of the pandemic to build out her space and design her studio, Polished Pub. The headicure usually takes an hour. The services can be performed simultaneously because the hair dryers are suspended from the ceiling above the stylist’s chair. This allows free movement of the stylist to work around the manicurist without entangling the dryer’s power cord. “I had to figure out a way for the stylist to freely style the hair while the client gets her nails done.

The arrangement is more comfortable for the stylist resulting in less strain on the back and arms because the ceiling supports the weight of the blow dryer.”

"Headicure" Service

CONTINUED > FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/PASCAC KVA L L E Y

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Natalie Lamorena, owner, Polished Pub Hair and Nail Bar

I LOVE THE CLIENTS H E R E . E V E RYO N E I S S O NICE. IT’S WONDERFUL TO BE IN THE DOWNTOWN A R E A O F PA R K R I D G E ! ”

Polished Pub also offers customized makeup services. “We can do eyes or foundation only or full face makeup with lashes,” says Natalie. “We can customize whatever the client needs.”

The holidays are the busiest time of year, and weekend appointments fill up quickly. The salon is open on Saturdays and Sundays--unique to Park Ridge because most Bergen County salons are closed on Sundays. With the ability to be available all weekend, Natalie and her team can easily accommodate wedding parties and guests. Polished Pub is also the go-to styling stop for high school students during prom season.

Her unique business model is paying off, and Natalie’s dream is to open a few more shops, perhaps even expanding to Miami, where she went to college. “I would love to partner with my mom in another location,” she says.

Girls aged 6-12 can get their glam on with dry hair styling, nail polish, and nail art at birthday parties hosted by the hair and nail bar. Parents provide the snacks, and goodie bags and mocktails are courtesy of Polished Pub. During this month of love and romance, moms are invited to bring their daughters to celebrate “Galentine’s” Day at the Polished Pub’s “mommy and me” event featuring $10 off headicures and complimentary goodie bags. If you are planning a special Valentine’s date night, book early because appointments fill up quickly.

Natalie also offers Botox parties throughout the year in collaboration with Hello Hydration in Paramus, and every Tuesday is $10 off a blowout.

As a new salon owner in Park Ridge, Natalie enjoys being part of the business community. “I love the clients here.

Everyone is so nice. It’s wonderful to be in the downtown area of Park Ridge!” polishedpub.com

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S ELF CA R E | BEAU TY

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845-942-5666

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level of quality care… personal, considerate, sensitive, and knowledgeable. Our highest priority is your child!

Their comfort, well-being, and total health.

PARK RIDGE LOCATION 74 Pascack Rd. Park Ridge, NJ 07656 201-326-7120

PARAMUS LOCATION 26 Park Place Paramus, NJ 07652 201-262-1140

WWW.TENAFLYPEDIATRICS.COM FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/PASCAC KVA L L E Y

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Nick Donato Jr.

Donato Financial Group THE BOUTIQUE FINANCIAL FIRM WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY LEBLED

26

M UST SE E | FINAN CE + L E GAL S E RVI CE S

If planning your financial future leaves you feeling a bit out in the cold, consider working with a boutique firm that prioritizes establishing healthy relationships and open communication with every client that passes through their doors.

Nick Donato Jr. of Donato Financial Group focuses on each client’s unique needs to strategize a comprehensive plan incorporating their personal goals and values. Then, he develops a clear financial path to achieve their desired lifestyle.

Nick learned the importance of understanding people from the best--his own father. “My dad was a simple guy. He grew up in a Jersey City cold-water flat and put himself through college. He was in the first graduating class of Bergen Community College in 1972, and he told me stories about attending most of his classes in trailers.”

Nick Sr. began his career in 1973 as a doorto-door insurance salesman for MetLife.

Throughout his years and with the support of wife, Diane, he helped thousands of families with their insurance needs, establishing a reputation as someone to count on to help with life’s important events.

“He just loved helping people,” says Nick, who fondly recalls spending Saturday mornings driving to client visits with his dad. “We’d sit at their kitchen table to discuss what was going on in their lives, and my dad would offer the help or advice they needed,” says Nick. The senior Donato’s client relationships were extensions of his own family.

“It wasn’t uncommon for clients to call my dad on the home phone line during dinner. Overhearing these conversations was second nature to me. He was there to help them in good times and bad— marriages, births, sickness, funerals.” Throughout these experiences, Nick learned the essential lessons of a strong work ethic, being a successful businessman, and building lifelong relationships.

After graduating with a degree in Finance from Bentley University in Massachusetts, Nick and his dad decided to go into business together.

Nick Sr.’s wisdom and old-fashioned values combined with Nick Jr.’s entrepreneurial spirit were the formula for the success of their firm. In 2008, they made the crucial decision to break away from affiliation with MetLife and focus on being completely independent, presenting a holistic, unbiased approach. “No one financial firm can be all things to all people,” says Nick. “Just like the Yankees have more than one pitcher, a team is better than any single individual—and a coordinated and communicative team is best of all.”

Working with Donato Financial Group doesn’t mean that a potential client has to walk away from their current advisor. “We collaborate with a new client’s existing advisors, accountants, and attorneys with a fresh set of eyes and new ideas.

Donato Financial Group is also aligned with other wealth management and legal experts to help navigate our clients’ needs.”

Nick works with all ages and income levels but especially enjoys helping young families navigate issues like saving for college, working toward retirement, having sufficient life insurance to protect spouses and children, and caring for aging parents. He also enjoys working with individuals approaching retirement. “We have an excellent process to ensure that our clients save enough for retirement to last through the rest of their lives. Very few professions provide pensions, so it’s important for people to save for themselves,” he says.

A boutique firm offers a personalized experience that big corporations simply cannot provide.

“They do a good job on money management, but they are not so successful with transferring wealth from one generation to another because they don’t build relationships with the rest of the client’s family. My specialty is being a safe money advisor focused on the protection and transfer of wealth for both individuals and businesses.”

Donato Financial Group will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. Sadly, Nick Sr. passed

“No one

financial

firm can be

all things to all people.”

CONTINUED >

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/PASCAC KVA L L E Y

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Donato Financial Team

Nicholas Donato Sr.

away three years ago, but his legacy lives on. “My dad worried about his clients all the time,” says Nick, “never about himself. His biggest concern was that someone would take care of the business when he was no longer there.” Nick sustains that belief by providing his clients with a solid network of support both inside and outside of his firm so that his clients will never be left waiting for a callback.

Nick, his wife, Cristina, and two children live in Washington Township. They are active in many local and national charities, including St. John’s Academy in Hillsdale, St. Joseph’s Regional High School, and The Arc of Bergen and Passaic Counties.

Having won many industry awards over the years, Nick says that his most significant award is the ability to serve people and having his clients call for advice and recommendations. “That’s the trophy for me,” he says. donatofg.com Securities offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.

“We have an excellent process to ensure that our clients save enough for retirement...”

28

M UST SE E | FINAN CE + L E GAL S E RVI CE S

201-396-9529

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Auto · Home · Business · Group · Life CALL US TODAY AND WE WILL PROTECT YOUR DREAMS FOR TOMORROW. 199 Center Avenue Westwood, NJ 07675 (201) 664-2973 Fax: (201) 664-7015 www.Johl.com FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/PASCAC KVA L L E Y

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

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

F E B R UA RY 4 T H

Dirty Deeds - The AC/DC Experience

T HE BER G EN PER FOR MIN G ARTS C E NT E R 3 0 N ORTH VAN BR UN T STR EET, E NG L E WO O D | 8 :0 0 P M Dirty Deeds The AC/DC Experience recreates the exact sound of AC/DC by capturing the unique and exact tone that the super group has come to be known for. Making use of interactive video, lighting, and functional theatrical props, Dirty Deeds recaptures the essence of an AC/DC concert in its entirety! Visit bergenpac.org for tickets.

F E BRUA RY 4 T H - 5T H

F E B R UA RY 1 8T H – M A RC H 1 1 T H

Galentine's Day at Polished Pub - Hair & Nail Bar

40 PARK AVE, PARK RIDG E | 9 :0 0 A M Moms are invited to bring their daughters to celebrate “Galentine’s” Day at the Polished Pub’s “mommy and me” event featuring $10 off headicures and complimentary goodie bags. Call 201-743-3670 or visit polishedpub.com to book your appointment today.

The Play That Goes Wrong

BER G EN COUN TY PLAY ERS - 29 8 K I NDE R KA MAC K R OA D, O R A DE L L The thespian troupe of Cornley University is putting on a production that you can just sit back and bust a gut at all of the misplaced props, forgotten lines, banged heads, missed cues, pratfalls, door slams, broken fingers and mispronounced words as the show literally falls apart at the seams. Visit bcplayers.org for tickets and show times.

Want to be featured?

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

RECREATIONAL CLASSES | SUMMER CAMPS | BIRTHDAY PARTIES COMPETITIVE TEAMS | AND MORE!

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GYMNASTICS, TUMBLE, CHEER, & NINJA WARRIOR PROGRAMS FOR GIRLS & BOYS, AGES 18 MONTHS-18 YEARS! 30

EVE N TS

(201) 664-0304 • www.aeonfitgym.com • info@aeonfitgym.com Training Center #1: 157 Patterson Street, Hillsdale, NJ 07642 & Training Center #2: 270 Knickerbocker Avenue, Hillsdale, NJ 07642

FE BRUARY 2 0 2 3

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Pascack Valley.

N E I GH BO RH O O D

ORIGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Emerson

$475,000

$465,000

98%

3

3

3.5

Emerson

$549,000

$537,500

98%

15

3

1.5

Hillsdale

$555,000

$580,000

105%

9

3

2

Hillsdale

$570,000

$540,000

95%

15

3

2.5

Hillsdale

$775,000

$740,000

95%

25

4

2

Montvale

$729,000

$725,000

99%

30

4

2

Montvale

$849,900

$865,000

102%

15

3

2.5

Old Tappan

$1,700,000

$1,628,000

96%

15

4

3.5

Old Tappan

$1,835,000

$1,700,000

93%

20

4

5.5

River Vale

$525,000

$500,000

95%

37

5

4.5

River Vale

$684,900

$700,000

102%

15

3

1.5

Twp of Washington

$599,000

$628,000

105%

10

3

2

Twp of Washington

$950,000

$850,000

89%

11

3

1.5

Westwood

$495,000

$495,000

100%

49

4

2.5

Westwood

$650,000

$620,000

95%

59

3

4

Westwood

$799,999

$784,000

98%

9

3

1

Woodcliff Lake

$895,000

$870,000

97%

24

4

3

Woodcliff Lake

$1,199,000

$1,175,000

98%

28

4

3

Woodcliff Lake

$1,425,000

$1,400,000

98%

51

4

3

This data is a sampling of sold properties from December 2022. Source: IRES MLS system.

Diane Cookson Broker Associate M: 201.788.6667 O: 551.284.0175 diane.cookson@compass.com

National Averages don't tell the story of your local market.

Get data-driven local insight by reaching out today.

Kaitlynn Sauer Licensed Real Estate Salesperson M: 201.783.4615 O: 551.284.0175 kaitlynn.sauer@compass.com

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/PASCAC KVA L L E Y

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B&M FOOD MARKET IS A FULL-SERVICE GOURMET MARKET IN PARK RIDGE, NJ. We have perfected Fine Dining At Home with homemade prepared meals and ready-to-cook items.

Bring the full restaurant experience to your home with our classic appetizers, soups, salads or family style meals.

Prime & All Natural Steaks and Red Meat, Bell & Evans Poultry, Heritage Pork, and so much more.

146 Kinderkamack Road Park Ridge, New Jersey (201) 391-4373 | bmfoodlovers.com V bmmarketnj B bmfoodlovers

DISCOUNT TIRE & AUTO COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE CENTER Delivering Value and Peace of Mind for Over 60 years.

ONLINE APPOINTMENTS | NATIONWIDE WARRANTIES | ASE CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS | STATE OF THE ART EQUIPMENT 678 Westwood Ave River Vale, New Jersey 07675 • (201) 664-2882 • anitatire.com

NEW JERSEY’S PREMIER INDOOR GOLF FACILITY GOLF INSTRUCTION ■ STATE OF THE ART GOLF SIMULATORS ■ B.Y.O.B. OVER 80 AVAILABLE GOLF COURSES ■ 7,000 SQ. FT. FACILITY FOR PARTIES/EVENTS

FUN FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS 49 E. MIDLAND AVE PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY 07652 732-798-9061 ■ WWW.GOLOWINDOORGOLF.COM GARY@GOLOWINDOORGOLF.COM

32

SOMETHING SWEET AS A TREAT

R E D

V E L V E T

C H E E S E C A K E B I T E S

D I R E C T I O N S

Y I E L D S

28 P R E P

T I M E

15 minutes I N G R E D I E N T S

+ 1 box red velvet cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box + 2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened + 1/2 cup powdered sugar + 2 tablespoon. heavy cream + 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 350º and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners. Prepare red velvet cake batter according to box directions. Divide batter among liners and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 18 to 20 minutes. Let cool completely. Break 4 cupcakes into small crumbs. Save remaining cakes for another use.

2. In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add heavy cream and vanilla and beat until stiff peaks form.

3. Line a large baking sheet with parchment. Using a small cookie scoop, scoop cream cheese mixture into balls and place on prepared baking sheet. Transfer to the freezer to chill, 1 hour.

4. Roll balls in red velvet cake crumbs until fully coated, then return to prepared baking sheet.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/PASCAC KVA L L E Y

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February SPECIALS

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Call us for accommodations 201.210.8999 90 Center Ave. Westwood, NJ 38 Beekman Ave, Suite 3, Sleepy Hollow NY

Featured Listing: 20 Cameron Road in Saddle River, NJ exclusively listed by Andrew Gangi of The Gangi Group

5 Bedrooms 5.5 Bathrooms 6,175 Sq. Ft. 2 Acre Lot Heated Gunite Pool Tennis Court Sauna Gym/Exercise Room Iron Gated Entry Circular Paver Driveway Guest Suite w/ Private Entrance Offered at $2,548,888 www.20CameronRd.com

Featured Properties recently Listed & Sold by The Gangi Group

$2,400,000

116 Oak Drive, Upper Saddle River NJ

$2,298,000

1 Toboggan Ridge Rd, Upper Saddle River NJ

$2,350,000

42 Woodcliff Lake Rd, Saddle River NJ

$999,999

28 Birchwood Road, Old Tappan NJ

$1,060,000

692 Alden Court, River Vale NJ

$1,350,000

599 Colonial Road. River Vale NJ

$1,050,000

515 Bernita Drive, River Vale NJ

$1,600,000

17 Cottontail Trail, Upper Saddle River NJ

Scan Me: FREE Pre-Approval

Andrew J. Gangi Team Leader & Realtor-Associate® 201.575.3312 AndrewJGangi@gmail.com www.TheGangiGroup.com @TheGangiGroup Keller Williams Realty, Inc., a franchise company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer and supports the Fair Housing Act. Each Keller Williams office is independently owned and operated.

Vincent Giordano President & Loan Officer

201.755.8872 Vin@GSMLending.com www.GSMLending.com

@GSMLending

For information purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Information and/or dates are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit approval. Garden State Mortgage Corp arranges loans with third-party providers; does not make any mortgage loan commitments or fund any mortgage loans Garden State Mortgage Corp | NMLS #1707560. 160 Pehle Ave Ste 301 Saddle Brook, NJ 07663. www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org | Equal Housing Opportunity. Licensed by the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance.

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JEWELRY

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CUSTOM DESIGNS

WEDDING BANDS

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145 Kinderkamack Road | Park Ridge, NJ 06656 | 201.489.3984