Pascack Valley, NJ July 2023

ARTS + CULTURE

YELLOW DOOR ART STUDIO: LAUREN MANDAL CELEBRATES LIFE WITH A SPLASH OF COLOR

LOCAL SERVICES

THE CHELSEA: DELIVERING OUTSTANDING ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE TO THE PASCACK VALLEY

HOME SERVICES

PRATT PLUMBING, HEATING, AND COOLING: SERVING THE PASCACK VALLEY SINCE 1927

NEW JERSEY DEER CONTROL: TAKE BACK YOUR YARD!

FOUNDED BY FAMILY

PARTNERED BY FATHER AND DAUGHTER

RANKED TOP 1.4% NATIONWIDE

ALPINE/CLOSTER OFFICE

THINKING OF SELLING?

RANKED TOP 1 4% NATIONWIDE

PERFECT TIMING- LOW INVENTORY

ALPINE/CLOSTER OFFICE

LET'S TALK...

THINKING OF SELLING?

PERFECT TIMING- LOW INVENTORY

LET'S TALK

SCAN TO TEXT

ATTILIO@THEADAMOGROUPNJ COM

VICTORIA.ADAMO@THEADAMOGROUPNJ.COM

THEADAMOGROUPNJ.COM

JOHNWILKENS@WORLDINSURANCE.COM WWW.WORLDINSURANCE.COM

20 DOROTOCKEYS LN | OLD TAPPAN, NJ 07675

584 PIERMONT RD | DEMAREST, NJ 07627

139 DEWOLF RD | OLD TAPPAN, NJ 07675

584 PIERMONT RD | DEMAREST,

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One Trip Around The Sun

Our July 2023 issue is of particular significance to me because it’s our birthday month! I first introduced Pascack Valley City Lifestyle to the community one year ago, and I couldn’t be happier with the decision to bring this magazine to where I grew up and live today. Have any ideas for articles in upcoming issues? Feel free to reach out to me, I love to hear from our readers!

As the days grow longer and the weather gets warmer, I find myself ready for the arrival of summer. There's just something about this season that brings about a sense of excitement and adventure.

Sure, fall has some great 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, relaxed days hanging on the beach or poolside.

The pages in our Summer Fun issue will help you make the most of this season in and around the Pascack Valley. Even if summer doesn't mean a three-month 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 and enjoying a new favorite beach read.

My family loves to have pool parties each year. We especially enjoy our July 4th extravaganza with friends and family. These are the types of memories that I hang onto every year and hope to continue for years to come.

Lastly, I could not be happier this past year, having the opportunity to further connect and make an impact in my community through Pascack Valley City Lifestyle. Thank you for coming along with us this past year and giving us a warm welcome into your home. We plan on continuing to grow and spending more time on your coffee or dining room table.

July 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

Charissa H. Yong, Jeremy Lebled

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Dawn Cortese

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mellen DS Photography, Frantvisuals, Nicole Cole, Meyer Design, Pratt Plumbing and Heating, Lauren Mandal

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 Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

ANTHONY RIZZO, PUBLISHER @PASCACKVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE

Lawrence N. Meyerson Anne M. Fox John A. Conte, Jr.

Sharon Rivenson Mark Carol A. Hawk Marianne Quinn

Michelle J. Marose Brian E. Shea Andrew P. Bolson

Evelyn F. Nissirios

Lynda Picinic Janet B. Lurie

Steven R. Rubenstein

Hon. Harry G. Carroll

Christine H. O’Donnell Luther Griffin Jones, IV

Sandra Lomenzo Christine R. Smith

Erik

Topp

Adrienne

M. Bonds

Kyle D.

Whittle Kiana Bracciodieta

Dr. Stephanie Gates

Dr. Douglas Gates

city scene

1-3: Greater Pascack Valley Chamber Of Commerce Citizens of the Year Awards Dinner. 4: First day of Arbor Fest at Brookside Park in Westwood. 5: Groundbreaking event at the new Lightbridge Academy coming to Montvale. 6: Montvale Mayor Michael Ghassali and Senator Holly Schepisi welcomed SPENGA Montvale. 7: Valley Bank presented a seminar on Fraud Awareness which was hosted by Thrive at Montvale.

JENNA MALLEY

JENNA MALLEY

JENNA MALLEY

DAN ZAMBRANO

KRISTINE BUONANNO

@PASCACKVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE

@PASCACKVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

8: The Northern New Jersey Networking Group held a successful event at Go Low Indoor Golf. 9: Park Ridge Rotary donated to the Alzheimer’s Association on behalf of Family of Caring. 10: The Hillsdale Fire Department Carnival was back for its 30th Anniversary. 11: Congratulations to five IHA senior athletes who were officially signed to their colleges and universities. 12: The Gangi Group and family participated in the Keller Williams’ Annual Day of service. 13: St. Joesph Regional HS dedicates baseball field improvements to Jim Whitney and Paul Ramasco. 14: PVHS Jazz Band members participating in a workshop at the Essentially Ellington Regional Jazz Festival.

@PASCACKVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE

@HILLSDALE_FIRE27

@PASCACKVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE

@ANTOINETTEGANGI

JENNA MALLEY

MRS. MARY DOHERTY

PAMELA BROGAN

15: Park Ridge Rotary Club Treasurer Brian Landy and his daughters volunteering their time. 16: Park Ridge Rotary Club helped unload donated food at the Tri-Boro Food Pantry. 17: First BIZhub meetup held at Westwood Candy Company in Westwood.

TERRY CIULLA TERRY CIULLA @FRANTVISUALS

Montvale Health Sport + Spine Becomes

Kayal Orthopaedic has extended its reach to Montvale. Moving forward, Montvale Health Sport + Spine will join the Kayal Orthopaedic Center family. With this alliance comes a number of advantages and opportunities for both Kayal and Montvale Health patients alike.

At IHA, girls learn in an atmosphere of academic excellence, athletic competition, artistic immersion, and Christian Service. The bonds they form here last a lifetime. Do you belong @theheart?

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

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

Park Ridge Rotary Club Participates In Day of Service

Saturday, May 20th was designated as a Rotary day of service for more than 450 Rotary Clubs. The Park Ridge Rotary Club held its summer food pantry stock-up collection drive benefiting the Tri-Boro Food Pantry, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, in Park Ridge. With the helping hands of the Park Ridge High School Interact Club over 1,000 pounds of food was donated and sorted at the Pantry.

St. Joseph Regional offers more than just outstanding academics. We provide students with tools to strengthen their faith, grow as learners, and develop into the Faithful Man. Students acquire skills that will last a lifetime.

VISIT US THIS FALL!

Open Houses:

September 24, 11am

November 2, 6:30pm

GHTS' BRIDGE ACADEMY

Local Couple Opens New Business 'From Rings to Renos'

From Rings to Renos is a husband (contractor) and wife (wedding planner) team that designs and builds anything wedding or home related. From custom seating charts or donut walls for a wedding to a brand new kitchen or backyard pergola. Being able to share memorable moments with clients--from putting together a dream wedding to building their forever home--From Rings to Renos has you covered.

gram to meet the needs ung men who may not be emically ready for the of a college preparatory ulum. Now accepting cations: SJRNJ.org

APPLY TO BECOME A GREEN KNIGHT!

Application deadline December 8th

School 40 Chestnut Ridge Road, Montvale, NJ 07645

St. Joseph Regional

Photography Brian Landy

JULY 2023

Our Picks for Your Summer Bucket List

RAMSEY FARMERS' MARKET: I love bringing my boys and our dog to pick out fresh produce, grab sour pickles and beautiful flowers. The market is open Sundays 9am–2pm. 2 W Main St., Ramsey, NJ

ABMA'S FARM MARKET, GREENHOUSE & PETTING ZOO: My boys love to visit the goats, sheep and pigs at Abma’s Farm and we never leave without grabbing zucchini bread from the market.  700 Lawlins Rd, Wyckoff, New Jersey 07481

VALLEY ROCK INN & MOUNTAIN CLUB: For a special date night out, check out the Valley Rock Cantina, outdoor dining in the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains. 27 Mill Street, Sloatsburg, New York 10974

WATERMELON CARVINGS BY JEANETTE DONNARUMMA: Nothing says July more than watermelon! Jeanette can make everyone’s favorite summer fruit look like your favorite animal. Ridgewood, New Jersey 07450

SOCIETY BEACH: I love to support local businesses so I always make sure to stop in to Society Beach when I'm in LBI. 2106 Long Beach Blvd, Surf City, New Jersey 08008

Watermelon Carvings by Jeanette Donnarumma

MEET

CURATOR

LOCAL EXPERIENCES

22

@jeanettedonnarumma

YELLOW DOOR ART STUDIO

Warm air, sunshine, and the bright colors of summer inspire a bit of creativity in all of us--especially Lauren Mandal. Her "busy season" peaks during the warm weather months because Lauren specializes in creating outdoor spaces that bloom with color. Her murals and playground spaces help growing minds (both young and old) celebrate life, color, and self-expression. They also communicate concepts such as positivity, kindness, respect, and inclusion. An extension of her children's art studio, Yellow Door, Lauren's goal is to make art come alive for kids of all ages.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WITH YELLOW DOOR ART STUDIO?

Yellow Door has been years in the making. It's been a dream to have a public, physical space where we can spark creativity and self-expression! As a public and private school art teacher for over 20 years, I have witnessed young children have fears and insecurities about creating art. Yellow Door Art Studio is meant to be a place where we don't need to follow strict directions or are required to draw a straight line. Not everyone has an easy time navigating that world, so I created a space where people--both young and old--can be creative without judgment.

Art is the desire to create. It's not about how well you do it. When you walk through Yellow Door, my hope is that you follow your imagination wherever it takes you. You can play and explore materials without fear of being "wrong" or making a mess.

WHAT TYPES OF CLASSES DOES YELLOW DOOR OFFER?

We offer elevated Art + Craft + DIY experiences for kids and adults—from fashion design and cartooning to painting and sculpting and cookie decorating in the form of seasonal workshops, classes, parties, and summer camps.

I believe our offerings are unlike anything else in the area. They are truly unique and creative. We have programs for every age-from a "Kool Kicks" shoe art workshop to spin art, black light painting parties, and collage and mood board nights for teens and moms alike. We're always adding more to our calendar, and we are happy to co-create experiences with our fellow artists.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR MURALS.

My passion is beautifying schools—inside and out. I want kids to be inspired and find joy in their everyday surroundings.

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELLEN DS PHOTOGRAPHY & FRANTVISUALS

Lauren Mandal Celebrates Life with a Splash of Color

Yellow Door Art Studio Owner Lauren Mandal

To date, I have painted eight outdoor spaces—playgrounds, exterior walks, and murals. So far, my biggest marquee playgrounds are Westwood's Berkeley Elementary School and Midland Park's Godwin Elementary School. This spring and summer, my work will be seen at Tenafly's Kaplen JCC on the Palisades' outdoor track and playground and Fair Lawn's Memorial Field near their newly installed basketball courts.

I have also painted countless unique interior school murals, often in partnership with my students. Taking a brush to anything other than the expected paper or canvas can be so empowering. The students I've worked with had the opportunity to paint ceiling tile "book covers" leading to their school library, calculate colorful math equations while painting school stairways, and hydrate their imagination with a whimsical "under-the-sea" design near a hallway water fountain.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BEGIN DOING MURALS?

I continuously draw inspiration from children. They have no fear, particularly when they are making art and are given the freedom to create.

I also draw inspiration from color. I find as we age, our homes and wardrobes have a way of losing color. Yet, I believe color brings life, energy, and joy to all that come across it. It's the center for all that I do.

Another big inspiration is the excitement of seeing people interact with my art. I love seeing children play in the places I paint. The art becomes alive when kids hop, skip, and laugh throughout the artwork. I draw upon that as I set my brush toward the next project.

WHY IS EXPOSURE TO ART IMPORTANT FOR KIDS?

HOW DOES CREATIVITY BENEFIT YOUNG MINDS?

I always say, "Don't think; just do!" Being able to pivot, problem solve, and trust your gut—all can be learned through art. It's not just about the outcome; the process of the creation is where the art is happening. It is a moving meditation or internal conversation the artist is having with their artwork. I let my artists decide what will happen rather than dictate step-by-step instructions. In my opinion, life is structured enough--particularly in many areas of public education. Creating should be personal. Sharing what you create is true bravery!

yellowdoorartstudio.com

Mural at Godwin Elementary School in Midland Park

Photo by Caitlin Mahar Daniels

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEYER DESIGN

The Chelsea

DELIVERING OUTSTANDING ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE TO PASCACK VALLEY

New Jersey’s getting older. As reported by the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ State Strategic Plan on Aging, the percentage of New Jersey residents 60 and older rose 24.7 percent from 2010 to 2019. Our “over 60” population will continue to increase substantially throughout the coming years.

The Chelsea at Washington Township is ready to accommodate the growing need for senior residential services in northern New Jersey. Executive Director Todd Aronson has over 25 years of experience in the senior care environment and will be at the helm of the new facility, which anticipates opening in September.

“Construction is going well, and we have models available for people to tour,” says Todd. “We are taking reservations in our sales office at the Fresh Grocer shopping center on Pascack Road in Washington Township, where people can select their own apartments and specify location and size. We have studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms available.” The community will be located on historic Pascack Road, just steps from Schlegel Lake, Senior Park, and the community center.

The Chelsea will consist of two “neighborhoods.”  One will be an assisted living

community for people who are very independent or simply need minimal support. The other is “Country Cottage,” a memory care neighborhood where residents enjoy all of the benefits and security of assisted living along with a specialized memory care plan. Regardless of the neighborhood, all residents will receive a customized care plan aligned with their unique needs while they enjoy a relaxed and social community environment.

Amenities at The Chelsea will include an array of daily exercise classes, an on-site movie theater, a club room, an activities center, a sports lounge, and more. “Our residents will enjoy the private space of their apartments, but they will also love the social opportunities throughout the campus,” says Todd. “They can take advantage of our dining services at every meal but also make a cup of coffee and snack in their own kitchenettes.”

The team at The Chelsea also acknowledges that active seniors love to be on the go; however, driving or arranging transportation to outings or medical appointments can be challenging. “We will take them where they want to go, whether it’s an organized trip to a casino in Atlantic City or a show in Manhattan,” says Todd. CONTINUED >

“We find out what they like to do and make the arrangements. There’s also a lot going on in the Pascack Valley area, so there will be regular local lunch and dinner outings to favorite dining spots and nearby special events. Our residents will have much in common since most have lived in this area their entire lives.”

Seniors (and their grown children) understand the challenge of transitioning from a well-loved home of 50 years, and the staff at The Chelsea is happy to assist families with that conversation. “People begin to realize that homeownership is becoming more difficult--they can no longer do the stairs or handle their property maintenance,” says Todd. “We meet with them to better understand their situation so that we can help them navigate it.”

There are many benefits to an assisted living environment, one of which is the socialization aspect. Studies show that depression can become a factor in the lives of lonely seniors

and that activities and human interaction are keys to keeping the memory sharp. At The Chelsea, a resident can easily accompany a friend to watch a movie, join a bridge club, or play mahjong—all fun and stimulating activities that don’t exist in one’s own home.

Exercise classes are available to keep the body strong and flexible, and they can also help to improve fitness, reduce falls, and manage the symptoms of arthritis. Residents who need more support will feel secure knowing they have help with personal care preferences such as managing medications and personal hygiene.

Assisted living provides a warm community environment while offering peace of mind and relieving stress for the family. The momentum of opening a new senior living residence for Pascack area residents will continue to build throughout the summer. “I enjoy the process of preparing to open a beautiful, new facility,” states Todd. “We are busy building and training the team that will welcome our first residents—it’s exciting!”

Stop by and visit Todd and his team at their sales center at 261B Pascack Road in Washington Township or call 201-263-1955.

chelseaseniorliving.com

“Amenities at The Chelsea will include an array of daily exercise classes, an on-site movie theater, a club room, an activities center, a sports lounge, and more.”

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PRATT PLUMBING AND HEATING

Pratt Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling

As summer strikes northern New Jersey with soaring temperatures and oppressive humidity, most of us set our thermostats to “cool” and enjoy the wonders and comforts of air conditioning. For homeowners, it’s as easy as flipping a switch, but there are complex electromechanical systems and engineering making the process happen in the background.

And...where do you turn if the switch doesn’t work properly? You may want to call the team at Pratt Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling, which has had the Pascack Valley covered since 1927. Originally located in Montvale, the firm moved to River Vale before their recent move to 52 Park Avenue in Park Ridge. Their service team knows the area, homes, and homeowners of Pascack Valley quite well.

Owner Steve Hopper grew up in the family-owned business. “The business was started in 1927 by my maternal grandfather, John Pratt,” says Steve, who began working in the trade at age 14 during the summer months. “My father, Lee Hopper, assumed ownership in 1965, and I began working full-time after high school and started running the company in 1989. This month, we are starting our 96th year in business.”

In addition to air conditioning services, Pratt offers both residential and commercial services to repair and replace all types of plumbing, heating systems, and water heaters; and they offer annual maintenance contracts, too. Service techs are factory-trained in all of the latest technologies and equipment,

including high-efficiency boilers. “This is important because the technology keeps evolving and we must continue to learn and adapt to the new equipment,” says Steve.

Over their many years in business, Pratt has become a staple of the community, and the local “go-to” company to call when home mechanics are not working properly. “We frequently work with multi-generations of families,” says Steve. “Not long ago, we were handling a project in Old Tappan and received a call from Park Ridge—it was a family member of that Old Tappan customer who had his own plumbing problems. We get to know the families and their homes quite well.”

Familiarity with the homes they serviced is an advantage for their customers. Steve recently directed a customer directly to her main water valve and instructed her how to turn it off to avoid a deluge. “I knew exactly where her water meter was, and it saved her from having to deal with a flood in her home,” he notes.

Steve’s hands-on approach to customer service is an added benefit for his customers. After-hours calls are personally manned by senior staff members 24/7. “We monitor and answer the calls in real-time in order to provide our customers a solution as quickly as possible,” says Steve.

Part of Pratt’s longevity in the business is due to Steve’s fondness for the local community. He’s proud of the fact that this family-run business hasn’t succumbed to becoming a part of a corporate enterprise. “I like this community and the people,” he says. “I enjoy the job—I’ve been doing it since I was 14. I do something different every day, and it’s interesting to see homes--and the towns evolve--it never gets old!

prattservices.net

IT’S GOING TO BE A LONG, HOT SUMMER. HERE ARE STEVE’S HINTS ON INCREASING YOUR AIR CONDITIONING EFFICIENCY:

• Be sure to check and change your air filters regularly.

• Use a programmable thermostat.

• Check duct work—if you feel a cold breeze in the attic, check and tape up the connections with approved duct tape.

• Ensure coils on outdoor units are clean and free of grass and shrubs.

• Have your air conditioning and heating systems professionally serviced once a year.

New Jersey Deer Control

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY LEBLED

Founder, Christopher J. Markham

Do you have ragged rhododendrons and holey hosta? You may have some hungry visitors munching on your prized shrubs and plants. These creatures also find your tulips tasty and daylilies delicious. They are your white-tailed "deerest" friends.

New Jersey Deer Control offers a safe and effective deer-repellent strategy. We spoke to founder and wildlife biologist Christopher J. Markham, who developed a patented, natural product to prevent deer damage after years of research and field testing. Read on to learn how to prevent deer damage in your yard.

WHAT HAS CAUSED THE SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN THE DEER POPULATION OVER THE PAST DECADES?

A combination of factors. Deer are a prey species, and every prey species needs predators to keep its population in check. In the case of the white-tailed deer, its main natural predators were historically wolves and mountain lions. However, they have largely been eliminated.

Hunting has helped keep some deer populations in check in certain areas, but it decreases in many suburban areas. In addition, hunting as a sport has dramatically declined over the years.

The second factor leading to the population explosion is suburban sprawl. Deer are what we consider an "edge species." This means they prefer an environment comprising fields and forest adjacent to each other instead of large, homogenous tracts of either. Suburban sprawl--especially when high-end landscaping is involved—has created this perfect environment. The result is an increase in food sources with small pockets of forest or dense landscaping to provide cover and protection. When you factor in the lack of predators, we

have not only created an environment for deer to not only survive--but to thrive!

WHAT PLANTS AND SHRUBS ARE SOME OF THEIR "FAVORITES"?

Tulips, daylily, and hosta are three of their favorites in the spring and summer. In the winter, they love to eat yew, euonymus, and arborvitae. That being said, high population numbers can force changes—and tastes—over time, and many species of shrubs and flowers that were once considered "deer resistant" are now commonly foraged.

INTERACTIONS BETWEEN DEER AND HUMAN POPULATIONS ARE UNAVOIDABLE THESE DAYS. WHAT ARE SOME THINGS TO KNOW?

Fencing, repellents, and planting choices are the best deterrents. Keep in mind that a deer can jump an 8-foot fence, but many communities restrict fencing heights. The smell and effectiveness of repellents, combined with their rain resistance (or lack thereof), have often frustrated many homeowners. However, professional companies like New Jersey Deer Control can help make a difference. And lastly, the choice of plants can also help dramatically, as some species of shrubs and flowers are much less palatable to the deer. Remember that "deer-resistant" does not equal "deer-proof"!

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF YOUR PROPRIETARY REPELLENT?

I invented it myself over 25 years ago, and it has many unique aspects. To start, deer do not like the smell or the taste of the repellent, and unlike many store-bought repellents, it does not discolor your plants or have an offensive odor. In addition to this, once it is dry, it is very rain resistant. CONTINUED >

We mix it fresh each morning so it cannot be sold in stores. Our ability to use these particular ingredients and prepare them every day is a significant factor in its effectiveness compared to other products and companies.  Most store-bought repellents often have a foul smell. Our proprietary repellent is rarely detected by the homeowner (by sight or smell), but that does not mean it's ineffective. A deer's nose is 80 times more sensitive than a human's, so even though most people will never smell it, a deer can!

HOW OFTEN SHOULD A PROPERTY OWNER TREAT THEIR YARD? IS THIS A SEASONAL TREATMENT, OR MUST IT BE DONE ALL YEAR LONG?

Each property's needs are unique. Although about 75% of our customers need year-round protection, about 20% focus on their spring/summer plantings,

while the other 5% focus on protecting their evergreen material during the winter months. From mid-August to mid-April, we schedule an application every four weeks, while we move to a more aggressive three-week schedule during the height of the growing months. This averages about 14 applications per year for year-round customers, but seasonal applications are also an option.

New Jersey Deer Control has 15 trucks on the road, six days a week, serving Bergen and surrounding counties. Staying on a strict schedule is part of our company's success and our commitment to customer service," says Chris. "We are not just a deer repellent company, but a management strategy. This is why we can help homeowners "take back their yard"!

njdeercontrol.com

A Taste of Healthy Italy

GAMBERI MAGRI CON SPINACI E POMODORI OR SKINNY SHRIMP WITH SPINACH AND TOMATOES (4 SERVINGS )

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds of fresh shrimp uncooked, cleaned, shell off, and deveined

• 4 cups of fresh spinach

• 5 tomatoes, chopped into large pieces

• 14 oz Hearts of Palm Linguini  (Palmini or Trader Joe’s Hearts of Palm Pasta)

• 2 Tablespoons butter

• 2 Tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

• 1/4 cup chicken broth

• 5 cloves of garlic chopped

• ¼ teaspoon paprika

• 3/4 teaspoon oregano

• ½  cup fresh parsley chopped

• ¼ cup fresh basil chopped

• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan Cheese or Pecorino Romano

ARTICLE BY DAWN CORTESE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE COLE

DIRECTIONS

• Heat a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add butter and olive oil. Cook until melted.

• Add the shrimp and garlic. Make sure there is space between the shrimp. Sauté for 1 minute on one side, until no longer pink.

• Flip the shrimp over.

• Sprinkle paprika (salt is optional) over the garlic and shrimp on the cooked side. Sauté for 1 minute.

• Add the tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute.

• Add the oregano, parsley, and basil. Cook for 1 minute.

• Add the chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes.

• Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes.

• Prepare hearts of palm pasta as instructed on package.

• Add the hearts of palm pasta to the pan with the other cooked ingredients and mix all of the ingredients together.

• To serve, top with grated cheese and sprinkle with crushed red pepper and salt if desired.

• Buon appetito!

What makes this traditional Italian recipe “skinny”? The hearts of palm pasta makes this Italian popular dish low in calories and carbohydrates and the recipe as a whole is packed with vitamins and nutrients. You can use angel hair, linguini, or capellini in place of the hearts of palm pasta to go the more traditional Italian route. If you go this route, consider using whole-grain pasta as a healthier option.

Dawn Cortese, Founder of Healthy Goals

Healthy Living, LLC, is a licensed Brain Health Trainer, and an Independent Optavia Certified Health Coach and she coaches weight loss, maintenance, and mindset. Follow Dawn on Facebook, Instagram, and her website, healthygoalshealthyliving.com.

*This particular recipe was created by the author and is not a registered Lean and Green recipe.

CITY LIFESTYLE

Summer Bucket List KIDS

Make the most of this Summer! Check off these activities on our Kids Summer Bucket List as you complete them throughout the summer. P.S. You might need an adult’s help with some of these!

Make Popsicles

Go Swimming

Play Sand Volleyball

Family Movie Night

Stargaze

Go on a Picnic

Watch Fireworks

Build a Fort

Make Tie-Dye Shirts

Build a Sandcastle

Bake Cookies

Splash at a Waterpark

Have a Water Balloon Fight

Make Homemade Pizza

Pick Your Own Fruit

Explore a New Local Park

Go Fishing

Camp in the Backyard

Sleep In

Play Board Games

Do a Random Act of Kindness

Write a Kind Note to a Friend

Ride a Rollercoaster

Visit a Carnival

Welcome, summer! As a hyper-local publication, we thrive on helping our readers make connections with the cities they live in, the businesses that make up their communities and the inspiring individuals making a positive mark.

Are you ready for your most adventurous, fun summer? Here are summer bucket list ideas for you to accomplish this year.

Go to the Library

A Healthier Margarita

DISCOVER THE DELICIOUS FRESH TASTE OF A CLASSIC MARGARITA MADE WITHOUT SUGARY MIXERS

ARTICLE BY ANA MEYER

Whether you’re hosting a pool party or simply enjoy sipping the sweet and tartness of an amazing Margarita, this healthier version with these natural ingredients is sure to make your palate happy. This is all fresh ingredients, no mixers. It’s just as easy, much cleaner and better for you!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. Casamigos Reposado or Blanco Tequila

• 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice

• .25 oz. Fresh Orange Juice

• .5 oz. Agave Nectar

• .5 oz. Orange Liqueur

• Garnish with a lime wheel through a skewer

INSTRUCTIONS

• Combine all ingredients into a tin shaker.

• Add ice, shake vigorously and strain into rocks glass.

• Add fresh ice and garnish.

Memory Care Services at CareOne at Valley Coming Soon!

We are excited to announce our brand-new Harmony Village assisted living community. Harmony Village at CareOne at Valley will provide 24/7 service from highly certified care specialists dedicated to creating a safe and comfortable environment for those living with memory impairments such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Pre-opening

events

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

JULY 2ND

All American Corvette Club Car Show

PANERA BREAD PARKING LOT165 ROUTE 4 WEST, PARAMUS | 8:00 AM

Fully-judged Corvettes and classic cars including hot rods, muscle cars, customs, classics, and trucks. Free admission to spectators. Donations accepted for Wounded Warrior Project, Eva’s Village, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and the food banks of Paramus, Fair Lawn, Hillsdale, and Park Ridge. Enjoy music and food trucks. For information call Mario 201-270-8321 or Mike 201-9608211. Rain date July 16th.

JULY 4TH

Paramus 4th of July

Pre-Fireworks Food Truck & Music Fest

GARDEN STATE PLAZA1 GARDEN STATE PLAZA

PARAMUS | 12:00 PM

The Paramus 4th of July Committee is teaming up with MegaBite Events to celebrate our nation's 247th birthday. There will be over 18 food vendors, a bounce house, bungee trampoline, live music, and more. There will be a selection of adult beverages including craft beer, wine, hard seltzers, and sangria. Admission will be $6 for everyone over 5 years old.

JULY 4TH

Ridgewood Fireworks Show 2023

For additional information, please call Senior Administrator Kirstin Walsh at (201) 983-2012

VETERANS PARK - N MAPLE AVE, RIDGEWOOD | 6:00 PM

Ridgewood’s great fireworks show for 2023 is back. Come out and enjoy a live band, 50/50 drawing, food, beverages, and most importantly fireworks!

JULY 10TH

The Community Chest

2023 Third Annual Golf Outing

EDGEWOOD COUNTRY CLUB449 RIVERVALE ROAD, RIVER VALE | 9:00 AM

The Community Chest's mission is to lead initiatives and support nonprofits that make our communities stronger and benefit people in need in eastern Bergen County. John Wilkens and Matthew Libien are co-chairing the third annual golf outing. Come out to support this organization for golf, dinner, cocktails, awards, and silent auctions throughout the day. For more information please visit thecommunitychestebc.org.

JULY 10TH

Dining Out Jersey

Foodie Expo 2023

THE TERRACE - 293 PARAMUS ROAD PARAMUS | 6:00 PM

Indulge in a wide variety of fine cuisines from the most popular restaurants and chefs in the area. Experience fine dining, wine tasting, delicacies, gourmet food markets, and BBQ from some of the area's best pit masters. A cash bar will be available. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time or at the door.

JULY 21ST

Sips of Summer: An Extravagant Celebration

MORTON'S THE STEAKHOUSE - 1 RIVERSIDE SQUARE MALL, HACKENSACK | 6:00 PM

Delight in four impeccably crafted cocktails, each expertly paired with unique dishes--all while immersed in an ambiance inspired by the prohibition era. For more information or to purchase tickets visit mortons. com/event/sips-of-summer.

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