HEALTH + WELLNESS
BELLATRIX MED SPA: BEAUTY...MADE PERSONAL
EDUCATION
IHA’S KERRY CARROLL: FROM STUDENT TO PRINCIPAL
STYLE + BEAUTY SPOIL ME PINK: A LABOR OF LOVE
SPRING AND SUMMER STYLES FROM THREADS
creating beautiful, healthy smiles is our
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
In addition to our Drs., we have a friendly and welcoming staff that helps walk you through every step of your treatment For your convenience, we have Saturday and evening appointments as well as 24/7 emergency after hours coverage.
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
I don’t know about you but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. The two most important women in my life are my fiancé and my mom. They have both helped me in so many ways throughout my life that I truly do not know where I would be without them! This year I am lucky enough to officially be adding a second mom—my mother-in-law who is always there for me and has helped me tremendously over the years.
Of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms. It’s not just the biological mothers, but all of the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.
We kicked off our women’s issue with a story from Immaculate Heart Academy, which helps shape young women throughout our community. We sat down with IHA principal Kerry Carroll who went from former student to now principal. We also had the opportunity to learn about Spoil Me Pink , a non-profit 501c3 organization striving to help women with cancer look and feel better.
Looking to pamper yourself or the special woman in your life this May?
Heidi Skelton, owner of Threads Westwood has you covered with her top looks for spring and summer! Just down the block you can stop at Bellatrix Medspa , where we interviewed Denise Patriaco and learned about all of their medi-spa skin care treatments.
Lastly, I hope you will take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing mothers out there!
May 2023
PUBLISHER
Anthony Rizzo | anthony.rizzo@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kris Pepper | kris.pepper@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Lucille Scharback | lucille.scharback@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jeremy Lebled, Charissa H. Yong
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Gwynn Galvin, Heidi Skelton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kate Errity, Gwynn Galvin, Oscar Alvarez, Immaculate Heart Academy
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 Antanette Ray
ANTHONY RIZZO, PUBLISHER @PASCACKVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE
Fe a tu r e s
• Spacious studio, 1-2 bedroom apar tments with en suite bathroom (selec t units available with balconies)
• 24/7 professional nursing ser vices
• Week ly housekeeping
• Week ly laundr y and linen ser vice
• 3 chef-prepared meals, daily
• On-site maintenance personnel
• On-site therapy ser vices with FOX Rehab
• Full calendar of interac tive and engaging ac tivities
• Themed par ties
• Spor ts bar with balcony for social hour and events
• Beautifully appointed common areas and cour tyard
• Bistro
• Movie Theater
• Club Room
• Ac tivities Center
• Transpor tation ser vice
• Planned group outings
620 Pascack Road
Township of Washington, NJ 07676
chelseaseniorliving.com
Where neighbors can see and be seen.
Andrew Gangi Honored as Top Real Estate Agent
Andrew Gangi, Team Leader and Real Estate Agent at The Gangi Group Keller Williams Valley Realty, has been recognized as Gold Level from the New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Sales Award for 2022. Andrew has also been acknowledged on Bergen County’s 2023 Top Real Estate Agent List, putting him in the top 6% of all agents in Bergen County.
A new coffee shop has opened its doors in downtown Hillsdale. The Barista’s Touch is a speciality coffeeshop with a traditional menu, but also serves European style iced coffees. The coffee is freshly roasted out of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The shop is located at 66A Park Ave in Hillsdale, NJ.
Aeon Fitness and Gymnastics was named Club of the Year from USA Gymnastics NJ. Voting for this special developmental program award is done annually. Aeon’s hard working team of coaches and gymnasts accomplished many goals in 2022. Aeon had a number of gold medals consisting of 1st place team and individual awards throughout 2022. With the positive club environment, Aeon shines through in its performances.
Photography @aeonfitnessandgymnastics
Photography @thebaristastouch
In the spirit of Mother’s Day, I am proud to highlight some of my favorite mom-owned businesses in the Pascack Valley.
VALE COFFEE SHOPPE: Vale Coffee Shoppe is one of my staple coffee houses. I love their community events such as Bingo nights and how they highlight local artisans. 669 Westwood Ave, River Vale, New Jersey 07675
CURBSIDE CONFECTIONS: My kids and I have the best time shopping at this gorgeous boutique full of sweets and novelty gifts owned by two local moms. 130 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, New Jersey 07656
SALOME BELLATRIX MED SPA: As a busy mom of two, I love getting pampered at Bellatrix Medspa! They have the most amazing facials and also offer injectables. 90 Center Ave Westwood, NJ
FIT4MOM BERGEN: For fitness and community for all stages of motherhood, visit Park Ridge’s mom owned Fit4Mom Bergen. 55 Park Ave, Park Ridge, New Jersey 07656
CRAVE CHOCOLATE: Experience handmade chocolate treats at Crave Chocolate. Their smores are amazing and I love how they are starting to offer Grownup and Me chocolate classes. 216 Old Tappan Road - Suite 32A, Old Tappan, New Jersey 07675
MEET
Michaelle Fleischer | @embroidery.babes
My business, Embroidery Babes offers custom and personalized clothing and accessories embellished with hand sewn embroidery, appliques, patches, and beading. Most of my items are made by hand. I learned embroidery as an outlet during infertility treatment. My customers love having something unique and meaningful and I love making that for them! Embroidery Babes is active in the community, participating in local events and fundraisers. When I’m not working, I’m running after my two children!
To see examples of Michelle’s work and to order, follow her on Instagram and Facebook @embroidery.babes, her website EmbroideryBabes.com or by emailing embroiderybabes@gmail.com.
The best places and things to do in our area.Photography @sweetsbycrave
We support you throug so that yo
We offer strengthsfocused, scientificallybased, compassionate treatment for all ages.
Compassionate experts of psychological treatment.
We offer strengthsfocused, scientificallybased, compassionate treatment for all ages.
Your life is not onedimensional and neither should your mental health treatment be.
When you call DLR plumbing and heating you don’t just get any plumbing technician you get the owner. Over 35 years experience. Giving you hands on advice to prevent your problems in the future like you have a “Friend in the Plumbing business”
Make Up artist Pamela Ortiz applying make up at a recent event.
When smart, compassionate women join forces to make a difference—take note. It will change lives. Pascack Valley native Jennifer Errity and her friends are living proof.
Years ago, when a good friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, Jennifer watched as her friend, Mary, lost her hair, brows, and lashes due to chemo. Seeing the toll it took on Mary's self-esteem and confidence, Errity encouraged her to visit her own stylists and salons to help her look and feel better. That was only the beginning.
"I shared this with my friend, Jennifer Tannenbaum, and she suggested getting stores to donate clothing for people who are going through cancer treatments. I thought it was a great idea," says Errity. "Then, we added in stylist services and accessories as well."
Jennifer Tannenbaum owns Closet & Retail Therapy, specializing in helping women look great and feel confident in what they wear. Errity herself has a professional background in the fashion and accessories fields and has numerous contacts in the industry. With that collaboration, Spoil Me Pink (SMP) was launched in 2013 as a non-profit 501c3 organization. "All donations go directly to the women we serve and toward expenses. There are no administrative costs," says Errity.
A third friend was introduced into the mix: Tara Pearl, a two-time breast cancer survivor who knew first-hand how draining cancer treatments can be--both mentally and physically. A valuable addition to the SMP team, Pearl had worked with the American Cancer Society in various fundraising roles. Along with her wealth of life experience, Pearl adds her special touch to events with her home-baked gourmet sweets.
The team secured local salons wanting to support the cause by hosting the events. Small groups of cancer "survivors and thrivers" soon enjoyed a day of pampering and beauty, including hair and wig styling, massage, and skincare. Participants leave with bags overflowing with donated cosmetics, clothing, purses, and accessories. "Thrive Causemetics is one of our outstanding sponsors," says Errity.
Women with cancer are not only struggling with the disease and its treatment but also facing dramatic changes in their bodies. "Their skin is dry; they may have lost a lot of weight or be bloated from medications," states Errity. "They come in looking timid and apprehensive, but they walk out like they are on the runway!"
Live events were not an option throughout the pandemic, so the team devised an online presence in order to be connected, sending out baskets directly to send out baskets to women who requested them. This prompted ABC news and LIVE with Kelly and Ryan to cover the story. The media spots elevated Spoil Me Pink's visibility and dramatically increased its website traffic. During that time, they put over 1500 packages in the mail to all 50 states. Errity’s daughter, Kate, soon came on board as COO to streamline the business and manage its social media presence.
Now, they are thankful to be able to return to their primary focus of "in-person" events. They recently rolled out new events in Florida, and are looking to expand to other areas of the country.
Bringing a bit of joy to women dealing with a cancer diagnosis makes a world of difference. “We're not curing cancer,” states Errity. “We’re just giving women a muchneeded break.” The testimonies speak for themselves:
“They come in looking timid and apprehensive, but they walk out like they are on the runway!”
“Spoil Me Pink was just what I needed to feel pretty again (even without hair)! You ladies couldn't have made my mother and I feel more at home. There is a special place in heaven for the three of you.”
“Thank you for making me feel special during my makeover! Confidence and strength are all a woman needs. Thank you!”
“What a very special group of women and a very special organization! I not only enjoyed the time here, but I loved looking forward to this very special day. Thank you so very much.”
“I haven’t felt this good in a long time.”
“Thank you for all your time, expertise, and compassion. Even though it was a breast cancer survivor event I forgot for a couple of hours that I was afflicted with the illness. Thank you for helping me realize my new normal. Thank you and God bless.”
“I would call it a labor of love,” says Errity, “but it’s not a labor. I really love doing it.”
spoilmepink.org
Jennifer has been in the fashion industry for over 20 years. She now works for the Pascack Valley Regional High School district as a community internship facilitator, coordinating internships for seniors in high school. She lives in Woodcliff Lake with her husband and three children.
“I would call it a labor of love,” says Errity, “but it’s not a labor. I really love doing it.”
Located on Van Emburgh Avenue in Washington Township, Immaculate Heart Academy (IHA) has been part of the Pascack Valley landscape since 1960.
Principal, Kerry Carroll, has a unique viewpoint since she is also an alumna of the all-girls high school. "I grew up in Ridgewood, where I attended public school until deciding to attend Immaculate Heart Academy for high school, and it was truly life-changing," she says.
Upon graduating from IHA, Kerry went on to earn a B.A. in computer applications programming and theology from the University of Notre Dame, a J.D. degree from the Columbia University School of Law, an L.L.M. specializing in international property law from King's College London, and a certificate in college counseling from UCLA—not exactly a typical career path for an educator.
"While still in high school, I began to consider that I might want to pursue a career in guidance counseling," says Kerry. "I
ultimately attended law school, but that desire to work with a high school population never left, and when I had the opportunity to work as a teaching fellow— I knew I loved it."
After several years of practicing law, Kerry decided to try volunteering at Immaculate Heart and was soon hired as a theology teacher. "I hadn't intended a complete career change, but it was the perfect fit."
Kerry's passion for IHA is obvious. "I often hear from alumnae that their education at IHA has continued to open doors for them
that they were prepared to excel. More importantly, their time at IHA showed them the importance of the value of female friendships," she says.
Kerry continually seeks creative approaches to provide students with new programming and opportunities and feels it is a privilege to share in their transformation over their four years at school. However, being a principal at an all-girls school does not come without its challenges when considering the constant bombardment of social media, peer pressure, self-esteem issues, and interpersonal challenges that young women face today. Kerry's team has developed social-emotional and mental wellness programming and executive functioning seminars for all 9th graders to help ease the transition into high school and manage stress levels. The school has also established a four-year college search program to support students and their families throughout their entire time at IHA.
"High school is a challenging time in general, and recent statistics about mental health in teenage girls are particularly frightening. Our students have many opportunities, but they also navigate new pressures," says Kerry.
The IHA faculty recently rolled out a new academic Scholae program that offers five academic "schola" segments, allowing students to study their academic passions while engaging in a small community of like-minded students. "I am incredibly proud of the thought put into launching this program because I know our students will thrive."
The school places a strong emphasis on servant leadership. "Our Director of Formation has developed an unrivaled community service program," says Kerry. "Our students become leaders in their community as 9th graders and continue to grow their skills and experience while helping others. We love hearing how our students discover their passions and continue their service as they enter college."
As an IHA alumna, Kerry can certainly relate to her students and their experiences. "I sat at the same desks, in the same classrooms, wearing the same kilt," she says. "I balanced the same sports schedules with extracurriculars and homework assignments. I received an excellent education at IHA and my friends and teachers supported me. Now, I can help ensure that we continue to provide that same exemplary high school experience to a new generation of students."
immaculateheartnj.com
Ingredients
• ice
• 3 Tablespoons vodka (1 ½ ounces)
• 1 Tablespoon grenadine syrup
• 3/4 cup lemon-lime soda (6 ounces)
• maraschino cherries
• lime slices optional
Instructions:
• Add vodka and grenadine to an ice-filled glass.
• Top it off with the lemon-lime soda
• Garnish with maraschino cherries and lime slices, if desired.
• Stir and enjoy
1. For kid-friendly drinks, leave out the vodka for a traditional Shirley Temple!
2. For your next party, make a big batch of this cocktail and serve it in a punch bowl with maraschino cherries, and lime or lemon slices. So pretty!
3. 3 Tablespoons is one jigger. Add more if you prefer more vodka than one jigger.
4. Add more grenadine syrup for a deeper color and added flavor
5. Gin, tequila, or white rum in place of vodka, will also work.
Gwynn Galvin, creator of Swirls of Flavor, creates easy, family-friendly recipes with fresh, simple ingredients. Check out her website at swirlsofflavor.com.
The staff at Bellatrix Med Spa has a singular goal in mind. To make each client feel relaxed, comfortable, and completely satisfied—each and every time they walk through the doors of their Westwood spa.
ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARISSA H. YONG
Bart DeGregorio, MD, and his business partner, Denise Patriaco have managed to do just that. Located at 90 Center Avenue, the spa is warm and inviting. When a client arrives, they are warmly greeted by Carol Longobardo, the Spa Coordinator. “Everything we do is based on a personal relationship,” says Carol. “You aren’t a number here.”
The spa offers skincare, aesthetic, and cosmetic services such as Botox, injectable fillers, facials, hydrafacials, microdermabrasion, laser hair removal, waxing, brows, and lashes. From opening day two years ago, Dr. DeGregario’s goal was to make clients feel at ease by treating them in a spa-like environment rather than a clinical one. Warm grays, beiges and rose tones accented with attractive antique furnishings set a warm and comfortable stage at the spa. Appointments are intentionally scheduled to avoid delays and long waits. “No one waits here for more than 5 minutes,” says Denise. Because appointments are scheduled purposefully, the staff has the ability to take the time to get to know their client by taking their medical history and understanding the short- and long-term goals of each individual.
Botox and filler treatments are uncomfortable. The word, “injectable” is bound to put some people on edge. However, the staff at Bellatrix prioritizes making people feel as comfortable as possible, fielding any questions and explaining the process while educating clients on each modality. “We always let people know what their options are
and we offer a money-back guarantee. We stand behind our work,” says Denise. “Actually, we want you to leave feeling that it was money well spent for an amazing experience.”
The team infuses a spa-like experience in every treatment. Denise says that when clients come in for hydrafacials, which are medical in nature, they miss that pampering aspect of regular facials. “We bridge that gap by adding a few bonus features, such as a relaxing mask, massage, and light therapy, to enhance that spa-like zen. People leave feeling like they’ve been on vacation for an hour!”
Bellatrix and its staff receive rave reviews from their clients who love the relaxing elements infused into every treatment. Client Susan Gallo says, “Bellatrix is absolutely a 5-star experience. They made me feel so comfortable and explained what to expect every step of the way. Denise’s level of professionalism is off the charts. I loved it the minute I walked in!” “I treat people the way I’d want to be treated,” says Denise. Each person should feel beautiful—we just enhance the beauty they already have!” @bellatrix_injectables
"Bellatrix is absolutely a 5-star experience... I loved it the minute I walked in!"
THREADS HAS YOU COVERED
ARTICLE BY HEIDI SKELTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY OSCAR ALVAREZThe spring fashion trends are here and available at Threads! Be ready for bold, fun colors this spring. Pinks, greens, and lavenders are the hottest trends along with “dad” and carpenter jeans in bright, spring colors.
Heading out to a party? A jumpsuit with a gold wedge or a dress with a pink heel works perfectly. Throw on a stylish jacket or a fabulous accessory and you’re ready for anything!
| OUTFIT 1
Our favorite floral and white shacket by Blue Revival featured over our tank by Z Supply. Denim straight-leg jeans by Bianco and white platform sneakers by J/Slides. Bag by Haute Shore.
| OUTFIT 2
Steve Madden oversized button-down men’s-inspired striped shirt. Fitted corset crop top by Suzette. Dear John white wide-leg jeans, platform sneakers from J/Slides.
| OUTFIT 3
Our model looks like a breath of fresh air in this white gauze dress by Steve Madden. Gold platform sandals by Marc Fisher are a stylish and comfortable addition.
| OUTFIT 4
Button-down by Steve Madden. Drawstring bag by Haute Shore, white wide-leg jeans by Dear John, and gold Marc Fisher platform sandals.
Pretty in pink suiting for work or play, styled with this flirty ruched top by Sanctuary. We paired it with our versatile white platform sneakers by J/Slides..
We are loving this boho look with this flowy tropical cover-up by Loveriche.
with a tank
threadswestwood.com
MAY 4TH
EDGEWOOD COUNTRY CLUB449 RIVERVALE ROAD, RIVER VALE | 11:00 AM
The Spring Bergen Women’s Health Experience is a time for you and your friends to get together and be inspired. A ticket includes a gourmet lunch, complimentary wine, workshops, exhibits from healthcare, beauty, and fitness companies, take-home swag-bag, raffles, and a silent auction with all net proceeds divided evenly between four area non-profit organizations in the area.
MAY 6TH - JUNE 4TH
BERGEN COUNTY PLAYERS - 298 KINDERKAMACK ROAD, ORADELL
“A delightfully giddy, goofy musical comedy!” (USA Today) follows the comings-and-goings of two crazy families on the morning of the impending nuptials between the Jewish Rebecca and the Catholic Brian. Tensions rise to the fore in this fastpaced farce featuring contemporary music that will appeal to anyone who has been through wedding plans. Visit bcplayers.org for tickets and show times.
MAY 6TH
PARK RIDGE TOWN POOL
PARKING LOT - 123 COLONY AVE, PARK RIDGE | 9:00 AM
All are welcome to the 12th Annual Park Ridge car show hosted by the Park Ridge Recreation Committee. Spectators are free and the trophy ceremony will start at 2:30 pm.
There will be food and fun for all attending. Rain dates for the show are Saturday 5/13 and, if needed, 5/20.
MAY 7TH
Garden State Plaza Spring Food and Music Festival
WESTFIELD GARDEN STATE
PLAZA | 12:00 PM
Spend the day with 12+ food vendors, live music, games, and activities for all ages. In addition to activities including air soft shooting range, hatchet tossing, bounce house, bungee trampoline, face painters, Henna by Dana, and more. There will also be local craft beer, wine, sangria, and hard seltzers available for purchase.
MAY 17TH
THRIVE AT MONTVALE - 110
SUMMIT AVE, MONTVALE | 5:00 PM
Valley Bank Women in Business is hosting a women's business networking social. They are inviting growth-oriented business women and female entrepreneurs to join them to connect, collaborate and learn. The program connects and empowers women professionals and female entrepreneurs. For more information contact Kristine Buonanno at KBuonanno@Valley.com.
MAY 21ST
River Vale Spring Fling 5k
400 MARK LANE, RIVER VALE NJ | 9:00 AM
Fitness with Friends' vision is to help communities become healthy, fit, and happy by providing clinics and classes for all. This race was created and is being executed in coordination with Run 4 Love and profits will be donated to The Helping Hand Food Pantry. The race is for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/PascackValley
“Amazing results skin package”
2 skin resurfacing sessions: - 40 units of botox, - 1 dermal filler,
1/2 syringe of lip filler
$2,400 ($3,500 value)
$50 off all hydra facials
3 steps to the best skin of your life:
- Cleanse & peel - Extract & hydrate - Fuse & protect Buy 1 signature facial, Get the 2nd 50% off
- Add Dermaplaning $50 or Microdermabrasion $50
Laser Hair Removal
- Buy one area, get the 2nd 60% off
Waxing Packages
- Buy 9 sessions get 3 free - Each package will be discounted 25%
$500 any syringe
- *Membership Clients Only* - (Max 3 syringes)