Pascack Valley, NJ September 2023

THE Style ISSUE

LOCAL SERVICES

MEYERSON, FOX, & CONTE, P.A.

STYLE + BEAUTY

FORMALS ONLY TUXEDOS: BUTTON UP YOUR NEXT FORMAL EVENT

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

THE WILNER GROUP: FINDING THE PERFECT FIT FOR PROFESSIONALS

ARTS + CULTURE

THE WESTWOOD YARN BOMB SQUAD: HOOKED ON HAPPINESS

SEPTEMBER 2023

INSTAGRAM

ABOUT US

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 team 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

creating

Style In The Valley

I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy.

Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or how we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the music we listen to, from the books we read to the way we carry ourselves in conversations, style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.

Style is deeply personal. And it evolves as we celebrate our quirks, passions, and desires. It is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world, and what we value. In this way, style becomes a powerful tool for connection, enabling us to find common ground with others who share our aesthetic sensibilities.

As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or continue exploring familiar ones. There is so much here in the Pascack Valley to uplift spirits, boost productivity, and ignite creativity.

I've found that the best style is an authentic expression of who you are. This comes in the form of your job, business, friendships, and daily interactions--no one on earth can duplicate it. Each day, strive to be the most authentic version of yourself. Others will appreciate it, but more importantly, you will be more confident in everything you do.

Here's to being uniquely you!

ANTHONY RIZZO, PUBLISHER @PASCACKVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE

September 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, Clara Wang

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Antoinette Gangi

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Teresa Mansbach, Mellen Design Services, Javier Alba, Terence Lynch of Studio Eleven Productions

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel of Emerson celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting. 2: Embroidery Babes at Aeon Fitness and Gymnastics’s competitive team banquet. 3: Threads Westwood celebrated their 10th anniversary with a ribbon cutting by Westwood Mayor, Raymond Arroyo. 4: A Work of Heart Counseling hosted Climb-Out of the Darkness Bergen County, benefitting Postpartum Support International. 5: Empowered Pelvic Health participating in the Climb-Out of the Darkness Bergen County event. 6: The Park Ridge Rotary Club installation of their new 2023-2024 officers. 7: Fun in the sun at The Pet Lodge and Day Spa!

@K9RESORTS_EMERSON

@THREADSWESTWOODNJ

@EMPOWEREDPELVICHEALTH

@EMBROIDERY.BABES

JULIANA FONDACARO

8: Prom 2023 at Hounds Town in Hillsdale. 9: Christina Brophy of Harmony Village at CareOne Valley hosted a “Rosé All Day” open house. 10: Greg Davidson, Adam Riker, Wayne Loranger, Thomas Arabia, David Arabia at the Community Chest Golf Outing. 11: John Wilkens, Gary Petry, and Matt Libien at the Community Chest Golf Outing. 12: New Jersey’s Medical Weight Loss For Life ribbon cutting by Westwood Mayor, Raymond Arroyo. 13: Park Ridge Junior Police Academy recruits doing the traditional motivational run through town. 14: It’s a playdate at The Pet Lodge and Day Spa!

TERENCE LYNCH OF STUDIO ELEVEN PRODUCTIONS

TERENCE LYNCH

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @PascackValleyCityLifestyle

15: Bailey and Maddie enjoying some playtime at K9 Resorts of Emerson. 16: Barbie Day at Threads Westwood. 17: Live music at Vale Coffee Shoppe. 18: A fresh set of Barbie nails at Polished Pub in Park Ridge. 19: Delicious Fettuccine Alfredo at Bellissimo Ristorante in Montvale. 20: Five Dimes Brewery hits the golf course! 21: Local flower classes available at Denis Flowers & Gifts in New Milford.

@K9RESORTS_EMERSON @POLISHEDPUB @BELLISSIMOMONTVALE

@DENISFLOWERS

@VALECOFFEESHOPPE

@FIVEDIMESWESTWOOD

@THREADSWESTWOODNJ

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 - skills that will last a lifetime.

VISIT US THIS FALL!

Pet Hotel Opens in the Pascack Valley!

K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel has opened in Emerson! K9 Resorts offers the finest overnight accommodations and daycare for your pet. Their caring staff and cage-free environment ensure your dog is comfortable, happy, and well cared for. K9 Resorts is trusted by veterinarians for their patients--as well as their own pets. They are located at 465 Old Hook Road in Emerson.

Photography By @k9resorts_emerson

Pratt Plumbing, Heating & Cooing is Back In Park Ridge

After 24 years in River Vale, Pratt Plumbing, Heating & Cooling has moved its offices back to Park Ridge. With over 96 years of service to the Pascack Valley, they have gained a strong following of loyal customers and aim to be your longterm partner for your plumbing, heating, and cooling needs. Their new office is located at 52 Park Ave, Park Ridge, NJ.

Scan to read more.

The FDA Approved Medical Weight Loss Treatment Center Is Here

The FDA Approved Medical Weight Loss treatment is now available In Bergen County! The doctor-prescribed, all-natural, weekly treatment is a custom-blended medication that is individually formulated for each patient, called Semaglutide or GLP-1. Founder, Paul Pogrebinsky is a Pascack Valley resident who is striving to help residents in a safe effective way for weight loss.

Scan to read more.

Photography By @prattplumbing1927

Photography By @njmedicalweightloss

workforce solutions. We take your hiring goals seriously.

Executive / Retained Search

Our “white-glove” service is unmatched in the industry. We work in complete partnership with our clients to seek out the best candidates - cultural fit - for critical hires.

Contingent / Permanent Placements

Our industry expertise extends far and wide. We tap into our extensive contacts and market knowledge to secure the right candidates for the right position.

Contract / Temporary Projects

We know that as the market fluctuates, so do our clients’ needs. We excel in finding high-quality talent for contract work or temporary projects.

“Finding the best match for our clients (businesses and job seekers) isn’t just my vocation, it’s my passion. After nearly 15 years, I still get excited about every new job opportunity

“It is not how much you make that counts, but how much money you keep.”

ROBERT KIYOSAKI

local experiences

The best

places and things to do in our area.

Everyone loves a closet refresh and stylish scene, so we’ve rounded up some of our picks for the most sophisticated and fashionable destinations that will get you ready for your close-up with a fresh, new look.

Our Picks for The Style Scene

LUDOVICA: Ludovica is a women’s clothing and accessories store. They have super trendy pieces at reasonable price points, including tops, bottoms, shoes, jewelry, and even swim! 170 Westwood Ave Westwood, NJ

MOXIE SALON AND BEAUTY BAR: I love getting a blow dry at Moxie before an event and always leave feeling like a million bucks!  162 Westwood Ave, Westwood, NJ

BELFIORE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE: Belfiore Bridal is an adorable bridal boutique that offers both wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses. They also have a beautiful flower wall for photos!  15 West Pleasant Avenue Maywood, NJ

BEETS JUICE BAR: Beets Juice Bar offers refreshing playa bowls, smoothies, and juices. I stop in for a yummy mid-day pick-me-up. You can’t "beet" that!  21 Hawthorne Ave, Park Ridge, NJ

NUMI NAILS & SPA: This is my go-to for manicures and pedicures. For all my brides-to-be, I recommend getting their spa pedicure – it is heavenly! 321 Broadway, Hillsdale, NJ

Scan

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Toni Gallo | @simply.toni

I’m a fashion and lifestyle blogger, recent newlywed and latest resident of Old Tappan, NJ. I started my Instagram @simply.toni back in 2018 when I was a senior at Villanova University (go Cats!) and I’ve had so much fun sharing the different phases of my life with my followers – between graduating college, becoming an attorney, getting married and purchasing my first home with my husband, James, in Old Tappan, a lot has happened in the past five years! Come follow along as I share all things fashion, wedding and home décor on my Instagram @simply.toni.

BelFiore Bridal Boutique

Photography By Jeremy Lebled

Dr. Stephanie Gates

Dr. Douglas Gates

Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A.

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERESA MANSBACH

The Pascack Valley counts the law firm of Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A. among its most valuable assets.   They have a team of legal professionals ready to help you navigate your legal matter.

The firm focuses its practice in several areas of law, including, but not limited to, family law (divorce), elder and guardianship law, real estate and corporate and commercial litigation, and mediation.

Although he started his professional life as a mathematics professor, Larry Meyerson launched his second career as an attorney more than 40 years ago, concentrating on guardianship and elder law. Anne Fox joined the firm more than 20 years ago and built the family

Managing Partners: Lawrence N. Meyerson, Anne M. Fox, and John A. Conte, Jr.

law department. John Conte joined the firm more than 15 years ago, bringing his experience as a municipal court judge and planning board attorney. Together they have built a dynamic and well-respected law firm with centers of excellence in family law and estate and guardianship law.

“We have the largest family law and estate law practice of its kind in Bergen County,” state Anne and Larry. “The size and cohesiveness of our team significantly impact positive outcomes for our clients,” adds John.

The firm size and depth of knowledge benefits clients seeking representation in family law cases, in which we often deal with issues involving custody, family trusts, businesses, or

commercial properties. Anne Fox, head of the Family Law department says, “We have nine attorneys in our department. We meet the needs of our clients during a very challenging time in their lives, safeguarding their rights and their children’s rights through the divorce process. No case is too small or too complex. We often work with high-net-worth Bergen County clients and responsively service their needs given the depth of knowledge in various areas that our firm brings to the table.”

The elder law department, which focuses on all aspects of guardianship, estate litigation, and Medicaid planning, is also one of the largest in northern New Jersey. Our team is devoted to delivering the highest quality work and finding the right

solution to meet individual needs. Our attorneys in family law and elder law are often appointed by the courts to act as court-appointed professionals in various capacities.

The firm is proud to have had Judge Harry Carroll join the firm five years ago. Judge Carroll is a retired New Jersey Appellate Division Judge who also has served in the Bergen County Superior Court Chancery Division, Family law division, and Criminal Division. As a retired judge, his expertise is invaluable when mediating family law, commercial law, and estate law disputes. Judge Carroll is sought out by private clients, lawyers, and judges alike to mediate or arbitrate cases.

The firm is not limited to elder law and family law. It also works in residential and commercial real estate, land use as well as corporate and commercial litigation.

Cases have unique challenges, and the firm’s attorneys rise to meet the challenges. The attorneys and staff work hard each day to deliver quality work for their clients. They understand that a law firm is a service business, and the firm is well prepared to provide top-quality results for their clients, who benefit from the experienced attorneys at Meyerson, Fox & Conte, P.A.

mfmclaw.com

“We have the largest family law and estate law practice of its kind in Bergen County”

Family Law Attorneys

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELLEN DESIGN SERVICES

THE WESTWOOD YARN BOMB SQUAD

HOOKED ON HAPPINESS

If you've noticed some extra bursts of local color throughout town this summer, you may have the Westwood Yarn Bomb Squad to thank. The organization came about in 2018 in anticipation of Westwood's 125th-anniversary celebration under Celebrate Westwood arts program. Now, the Yarn Bomb Squad is an independent non-profit organization.

Yarn Bombing has grown in popularity over the years as a guerilla or street art form known for beautifying forgotten or overlooked outdoor spaces with colorful textured art. Using knitted or crocheted yarn or fiber does not damage property and is removable.

A freelance art director and graphic designer, Heather O'Hara grew up crafting. "I come from a long line of artists

and seamstresses," she says. "My mother taught me to crochet and knit. Admittedly, I hadn't picked up knitting needles or a crochet hook in years, but I was inspired to start again after reading about Magda Sayeg in Ingrid Fetell Lee's book, Joyful ."

With the notion that this would be an accessible way to spark color and joy in town, Heather reached out to Lauren Letizia at Celebrate Westwood, who was equally inspired— and the Westwood Yarn Bomb Squad became a reality. Nicole Sandt, another neighbor, was tasked with publicizing the initiative. Coincidentally, these three ladies all live on the same street in Westwood.

The Yarn Bomb Squad is one of the many arts-focused initiatives of Celebrate Westwood," says Lauren. The initiative

was responsible for 2019's Community Quilt, "Music on the Avenue," "Arts in the Park," and other creative community outreaches.

By now, most residents have seen the whimsical summer garden at Irvington and Broadway in Westwood.

"It's a simple initiative that I hope will make people smile and create a little unexpected happiness," says Heather. "You never know what someone is going through, and if we can surprise and delight through this effort, then we will be successful."

Everyone is invited to join in—regardless of whether you are a Martha Stewart type or have two left thumbs. "We are super lucky to have some well-seasoned knitters and crocheters in our community," notes Heather.

Hundreds of individual pieces—from a Westwood heart centerpiece to pom-pom confetti, a large handwoven "Stop for Art" sign, textile versions of summer snacks, fuzzy bumble bees and butterflies, flowers, suns, and more--were donated by residents of Westwood and the greater Pascack Valley, or created at knitting/crocheting meetups

hosted by the Westwood Public Library. It is a delight to take in and a true celebration of art created across generations.

Coming out of Covid, everyone is craving community connections. "This is a fun, common, and inclusive ground for all to get involved," says Heather. "No matter your skill level, age, or background, you can participate—even if that's making simple pom poms, which are simple to create and instantly gratifying. Volunteers met at the library throughout the spring and summer to knit and crochet. "No matter what your age or background, you can do this. The energy and communal intention behind the Yarn Bomb Squad set it apart from other community-based initiatives.

"We've received donations from Girl Scouts, Rainbow Girls, the volunteer Ambulance Corps, and even my aunt's knitting group in Nevada," says Heather.

The installations will stay in place through October.

Celebratewestwood.org

“You never know what someone is going through, and if we can surprise and delight through this effort, then we will be successful.”

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLARA WANG

Revive Beauty

REVIVAL

Revive Beauty is a fun, hip, and spacious salon where customers can revive their current look or get a revolutionary new one. Its loungey, spa-like feel channels fun, relaxation, and creativity. Owner Julie Haffler offers an array of styling, color, and cut opti ons that are in sync with all the latest trends and techniques. Stop in for a great cut and some good vibes!

YOU RECENTLY PURCHASED THE SALON IN AUGUST OF 2022. IS THIS YOUR FIRST VENTURE INTO BUSINESS OWNERSHIP?

Yes, this would be my first time owning a business. I worked at this salon as an assistant starting about 12 years ago—the job just fell into my lap because the aunt of one of my friends needed help desperately. My friend recommended me, and I’ve been here ever since.

When I began working here, I handled administrative tasks, phone calls, and so on. Eventually, I worked my way up to a chair after graduating from the Capri Institute in Paramus. At the time, my boss would joke that I would one day own the shop—and here I am!

DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO BE A STYLIST? WHAT DRAWS YOU TO THAT PROFESSION?

I’ve always wanted to do something in the artistic field and knew I wanted to work with

my hands. I also had a dream of owning my own business, but at the time, I didn’t know exactly what type of business that would be— but beauty school was the answer. There is so much you can do with a cosmetology license— the options are endless.

I think what draws me to being a stylist is that I love seeing the end result for the client. When you turn the chair around to reveal that “new look,” and your client is beaming— it’s so satisfying. I did that for them. That is what the profession is all about for me—to help people, make them feel good, and gain confidence.

You could have a bad day, but if your hair looks good, you may feel a bit better! At this stage in my career, my amazing clientele have become friends. They mean a lot to me. We go through life stages together--marriage, babies, divorce, personal problems, illness, and loss. We talk a lot together—sometimes, I feel like a therapist. But I know no matter what they are facing, we can make them look spectacular when they walk out of our doors.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE TOP SERVICES YOU PROVIDE?

Along with cuts, we are extensions and color specialists. We do bridal styles and are also an Ouidad-certified salon. CONTINUED >

THE

AND REVOLUTION OF BEAUTIFUL HAIR

WHAT IS OUIDAD?

Ouidad is a curly haircutting and styling technique. Our stylist, Lisa, is trained and certified in Ouidad, which accentuates your natural curls and embraces that beautiful texture, adding bounce and making it easier to style.

WHAT IS CURRENTLY TRENDING IN HAIRSTYLES?

The trends are constantly changing, but right now, we’re seeing a lot of 90s trends popping back up--I love it! We’re seeing curtain bangs (think Farrah Fawcett), wolf cuts (textured shag cuts), and lots of layered and textured styles. As far as color trends, lived-in color is a very popular technique, and it’s here to stay.

Owner, Julie Haffler

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE TECHNICAL ASPECT OF THE BEAUTY BUSINESS?

I love being a colorist! I enjoy adding beautiful shades of color to the hair, including highlights, balayage, and fantasy colors. The best part is the blowout and style, where you see it all come together. It’s fun to provide my clients with a beautiful new look!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT HAVING A BUSINESS IN THE NORTHVALE COMMUNITY?

Northvale is a great little town--everyone knows each other. I think it’s a beautiful thing when you walk down the street, and all the neighbors are waving, whether they know you or not. I grew up in Westwood and still live in the area today—it’s my home. It’s a great community in which to own a business. I’m very lucky.

@revivebeautylounge_ revivebeautyloungenj.com

“When you turn that chair around to reveal that ‘new look,’ and your client is beaming —it’s so satisfying.”

Seeking Postpartum Care? Let the Doula team of Butta’s Holistic Services help you in your transition into parenthood!

Butta’s Holistic Services offers various postpartum care options for new parents. Build your own package with options like newborn care, sibling transition support, lactation support, placenta encapsulation and more!

Check out our website to learn more about the postpartum care we offer.

www.ButtatheHolisticDoula.com (201) 873-6119 | Englewood, NJ

BECKER FUNERAL HOME

219 Kinderkamack Rd. · Westwood, NJ 07675 (201) 664-0292

12 S. Kinderkamack Road, Montvale, NJ 201-746-6669 | www.bellissimonj.com

Forget the motherland...the best Italian food is made right here in Montvale NJ.

”

DAILY LUNCH: Monday - Friday 11 : 30 - 3 : 00

$16- $18 - Includes Entree, Soup and Salad

2 PRIVATE PARTY ROOMS

BYOB: No Uncorking Fee

Reservations Accepted for Parties of 6 people or more Open 7 Days a Week

Martin O. Seitz · Manager | NJ Lic. No. 3889

Thomas G. Polito · Director | NJ Lic. No. 4268

Jennifer Tapia · Advanced Planning Director | NJ Lic. No. 4821

www.becker-funeralhome.com

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARISSA H. YONG

THE WILNER GROUP

Finding the Perfect Fit for Professionals

Maureen Wilner always wanted to have her own business. She wasn’t quite sure what it would be, but she knew it would involve helping people. Her professional career spanned working in an internal auditing position for a multinational corporation and later as a top producer of a global staffing firm. Here, she realized that staffing and recruitment struck the balance of a satisfying career that connected business with talent to help secure the role of a lifetime for job-seeking professionals.

As CEO and founder of The Wilner Group, Maureen is passionate about helping forward-thinking professionals and business leaders solve one of their most challenging issues—finding the right talent for their business.

Although recruiters tend to get a bad rap in the business world, Maureen is out to change that perception. “Many people view recruiters as salespeople,” she says. “But recruiting is more of an advisory or counseling role—I want my clients to have a positive customer experience. We want to ensure that you are successful and that the role is right for you. If the role is not a good fit, no one is happy.”

The key to Maureen’s success as a recruiter is to establish open lines of communication and foundational relationships with both the companies and the candidates. Clear and candid conversations between the client and candidate are essential for both sides to understand expectations to achieve the best outcome.

“I invest my time to get to know the culture of the corporate environment and how they train and onboard new employees. Many clients tend to seek out the perfect ‘purple squirrel’—a candidate with expertise in various roles—but like purple squirrels, that’s non-existent!” Maureen works closely with her clients to determine the non-negotiable requirements of the open position and

ensure the candidate’s personality, work habits, etc., will mesh well with the firm.

She also talks to the job seeker about what they are looking for in their new position. “More importantly, what they’re excited about in their career--and how we can help them love it more,” Maureen says. “Building trust is critical. It allows us to properly guide the job seeker in finding the right position.”

In keeping with this philosophy, Maureen can effectively recruit for any type of industry. “There is great value in building positive relationships,” she says. “My clients know they have a true partner who can help them identify the right talent.”

Maureen and her team of recruitment specialists meet weekly to discuss challenges and experiences while brainstorming together. “We share valuable insights and talk about how we would handle different situations,” says Maureen. “It’s real-life stuff, and it helps our firm creatively collaborate. Our goal is to make the process less stressful and more successful for clients.”

Maureen grew up in Dumont and moved to Westwood when she and her husband, Kevin, were married and later moved to Hillsdale. Her two adult sons, Kenny and Danny, are Pascack Valley High School alumni, so she’s heavily invested in the local community.

“I want to help local businesses,” she says. “Many of them are unaware of the value of recruitment services, and I love helping them find the perfect person. Finding the best match for our clients (both businesses and job seekers) isn’t just my vocation, it’s my passion. After nearly 15 years, I still get excited about every new job opportunity that comes through the door!” wilnergroup.com

"Finding the best match for our clients (both businesses and job seekers) isn’t just my vocation, it’s my passion."

Maureen Wilner

CEO and Founder Maureen Wilner

Sunday Sauce Meatballs & Sausage

I’ve been cooking since I was 10 years old and always loved cooking with my parents—never hesitating to prepare a meal at such a young age. I have always treasured carrying out our Italian family tradition throughout the years and was able to maintain a professional career while knowing that my family always ate a healthy, homemade meal. I now have created a lifestyle of family, food, and tradition that I can now share with my children and grandchildren. I’m excited to share my recipes so that you can enjoy these meals with your family.

ARTICLE BY ANTOINETTE GANGI PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAVIER ALBA

Sauce

Ingredients:

• 8 pork Italian sausages

• 2 - 28 oz. cans of San Marzano crushed tomatoes

• 1 28-oz can of tomato puree

• 1 6-oz can of tomato paste

• 12 leaves fresh basil

• 1 cup dry red wine

• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce Preparation: Sauté sausage in a large pot of EVOO, with garlic, onion, tomato paste, and salt/ pepper. Add remaining ingredients to the pot, cover, and simmer for one hour.

Meatballs

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef

• 1 cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Locatelli Romano cheese

• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup onion powder

• 2 tbsp garlic powder

• 2 eggs

• Salt and pepper to taste

Meatball Preparation: Lightly beat eggs in a large bowl. Add all ingredients above, and gently mix. Wet the palm of your hands with warm water and start rolling meatballs, making each the same size. Place the meatballs into the sauce as it simmers and cook for 1 hour in a partially covered pot.

Buon Appetito!

@antoinetteskitchen

Antoinette Gangi

FORMALS ONLY TUXEDOS

BUTTON UP YOUR NEXT FORMAL EVENT

ARTICLE BY KRIS PEPPER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY LEBLED

Remember the days of the pandemic—how we all longed to break out of our sweatpants and t-shirts to wear real clothing?

Thankfully, social affairs are back in full swing. Fall and winter black-tie affair “save-the-dates” have been mailed out and now is the time to consider what you will wear to your next special event.

Robert Capone at Formals Only Tuxedos can give you the right look—regardless of the type of event or venue location. Along with rental and retail tuxedos and suits, he also rents shirts, shoes, and accessories, including his endless stock of colored bow ties, pocket squares, and long ties.

Owner Robert Capone

“Our customers can come in and try all of the various styles. We have many suits in stock and are very experienced in fitting our customers perfectly,” says Robert. “Our tailor takes care of the necessary alterations, and when the customer returns to pick up the suits, it’s 99.9% spot-on!”

He notes that when he first entered the formalwear business in 1996, there were 15-20 tuxedo shops in Bergen County. Now there are three. “I’m still in the business because we do our own dry cleaning and take excellent care of our products. Robert credits the quality services of his family’s dry cleaning business in Bergenfield with keeping his stock of apparel pristine. “I grew up in the dry-cleaning business,” he says. “When my dad retired, we launched the tuxedo business. It was a natural connection because the dry cleaners always managed high-end clothing, such as designer gowns and suits. It was just an extension of the current business.” CONTINUED >

Although his retail storefront competition has declined, online rentals have surged. However, the dry-cleaning connection keeps Formals Only Tuxedos ahead of the pack here as well. “We have more competition from online businesses than local businesses,” says Robert. “The online sites are terrible with cleaning. Sometimes people order suits online and still have to get them cleaned themselves!”

Robert has seen many formalwear fashions come and go over the last 28 years. “In 1995, fit mattered very little to customers— they wanted it oversized. Now, everyone prefers their rentals to have a custom-fitted look. The industry has been experimenting with adding Lycra® and similar fibers woven into the wool to give

it some stretch, allowing for a slimmer fit,” he says. “Vibrant dinner jackets are popular—they aren’t a mainstream look, but great for someone who wants to make a statement.”

Customers can choose to rent or buy a suit or tuxedo. “Renting a suit is definitely the trend,” says Robert. “Men don’t necessarily want to commit to buying an expensive suit.”

In general, if you will need a tuxedo at least 1-2 times a year for the next several years, and your size remains stable, it is more economical to buy instead of rent your tux. Go for the rental if your need for a suit is infrequent. Either way, Formals Only is the perfect fit!

formalsonly.biz

678 Westwood Ave River Vale, New Jersey 07675 • (201) 664-2882 • anitatire.com

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

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

Come Flip With Us This Fall!

Gain confidence, strength, skill, and coordination! Learn something new and crush your goals! Join us for a fun filled FALL

August 28 - November 5 (10 weeks in Session 1)

Sign-up TODAY to Reserve Your Spot to Learn with us this FALL!!! Register ONLINE! Pro-rated session available! Advanced Registration Required! Open 7 Days Per Week! Trial Classes Offered! All Abilities Welcome!

(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

IF YOU ARE READING THIS... SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 oz- Cucumber & dragon fruit gin

• 3/4oz- Toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum

• 1/2oz- Lime juice

• Topped with ginger beer

• Hawaiian black lava salt & black sesame

GARNISH

• Small paint brush

• Simple syrup

• Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with a pinch of black sesame

The Magic Dragon

Make a Statement With This Stylish Cocktail

INSTRUCTIONS

Infused Gin: Infuse 1 whole peeled and cut cucumber in gin for a week. Strain the cucumbers out. Add 1 tablespoon of organic dragonfruit powder and mix very well with a whisk. To make the syrup, toast 1/2 cup of black sesame at 350 for 10 minutes. Take it out and let it cool. In a mortar and pestle, grind the toasted black sesame, but not too fine. Add the sesame into one bottle of John D. Taylor’s Velvet Falernum. Let that set for about 2 to 3 days and use cheese cloth to strain out the fine bits of sesame. Juice one fresh lime and strain to remove the pulp.

Cocktail: Paint a strip of simple syrup down a Collins glass. Take a spoon full of Hawaiian black lava salt mixed with black sesame and layer that down where the painted simple syrup was placed. In a shaker tin combine: 1 1/2oz cucumber dragon fruit gin, 3/4oz toasted black sesame Velvet Falernum, and 1/2oz lime juice and shake that up!  Fill the painted glass with ice (I use crushed ice) and strain over the ice. Top with your favorite ginger beer (my choice is fever tree ginger beer).

ARTICLE BY MATSUMOTO MARI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Vertical Gardens Are Moving Indoors

The Stylish Home Design Trend That Will Have You Saying, “Oh, Grow Up!”

Humans have always had a penchant for propagation. Since king Nebuchadnezzar II built The Hanging Gardens of Babylon (one of the original Seven Wonders of the World) in the sixth century BC, artful gardening has fascinated folks. Today, there is a growing trend (pun intended) in home design that echoes that need to nurture, albeit on a much smaller scale. It goes by many names. Environmentalists refer to them as “green walls” or “ecowalls”. Gardeners may prefer “garden wall” or “edible wall”. Designers have dubbed them “statement walls”. But for our purposes here, we will refer to them as the architects do - as “vertical gardens”.

A vertical garden is essentially a wall, or part of a wall, that is covered with plants growing in soil or another type of medium. Though they began as outdoor architectural attractions, these wonderful wallscapes are popping up indoors, and their benefits go beyond a fancy facade.

The most obvious benefit of a vertical garden is the visual beauty it brings to the room. Its unexpected presence adds surprise and drama, while its living tenants, with their varied textures and individual personalities, add energy and a bit of charm as well.

Beyond the aesthetic advantages, living walls have health benefits. They improve the air quality by adding humidity, trapping dust particles, and absorbing many harmful gasses, replacing them with oxygen. They can help with cardiovascular issues like blood pressure as well as breathing problems associated with allergies and asthma. Because they lend a sense of calm and well being, they can even improve concentration, elevate mood, and reduce stress.

Because these living walls are becoming more popular, demand is driving the price down making them more affordable for the average homeowner. Kits are available and most feature an integrated water delivery system which makes them low maintenance as well.

As for which types of plants to grow, succulents, mosses, grasses, and ferns are all good choices. Tropical vines work well also as they can trail down or climb up. Pothos and philodendrons have great climbing capabilities, are fast growing, and low maintenance. The design possibilities are as endless as the plant combinations. So bring the outside in! Simply choose a location with bright, indirect light, and turn your wall into a living piece of artwork with a vertical garden.

ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER

ARTICLE BY BAILEY MORRIS

Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub

This homemade sugar scrub is easy to make and leaves you with silky soft skin

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup of granulated sugar

• ½ cup of oil (almond oil or olive oil works best)

• ½ teaspoon vitamin E oil

• ½ teaspoon real vanilla extract

• 15 drops lavender essential oil

DIRECTIONS:

Sugar scrubs are amazing for getting rid of dead skin and exfoliating to reveal soft skin. To make this Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub, mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight jar.

A sample of recently sold properties in Pascack Valley.

Tour Today

events

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

SEPTEMBER 3RD

Westwood Recreation Department Community Band Concert

VETERAN'S MEMORIAL PARK50 MADISON AVE, WESTWOOD | 5:00 PM

Join the Westwood Community Band for its traditional concert in Veteran's Memorial Park. There will be a mix of new songs, old favorites, light classics, and show tunes, as well as big band, marches, and patriotic selections. Make sure to bring your chairs and blankets!

SEPTEMBER 9TH

Old Tappan Town Day

STONE POINT PARK - OLD TAPPAN, NJ | 1:00 PM

Residents are welcome to come out for Old Tappan Town Day. There will be rides, food, and activities, including mini golf, face painting, balloons, and much more! Free entry for all. Rain date 9/10/2023.

SEPTEMBER 10TH

Lou's Pigless Pig Roast

LOU'S TAVERN - 74 BROADWAY, HILLSDALE | 12:00PM - 6:00PM

For additional information, please call Christina Brophy at 551.337.3282 or contact her at Cbrophy@care-one.com

Lou's Tavern 24th Annual Pig Roast. There will be live music and a food truck provided by Eighty Twenty Smash. Tickets are $25 per person and all proceeds will support the William Magee Borgersen Scholarship Fund. This fund supports young people after high school with their education, vocational, and/or other creative pursuits in his memory.

SEPTEMBER 10TH

Washington Township Fire Department

Annual Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show

WESTWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

- 701 RIDGEWOOD ROAD, TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON

| 8:00 AM

All are welcome to the Township of Washington Fire Department's 27th Annual Car, Truck, and Motorcycle show. Firefighters will barbecue and music will be provided. Come out to enjoy the fun and support the WTFD fundraiser. WTFD.us

SEPTEMBER 17TH

Park Ridge Concert At Wortendyke Barn Museum

WORTENDYKE BARN - 13

PASCACK ROAD, PARK RIDGE

| 4:00 PM

Enjoy some "Rockabilly" music by Crash Gordon and Deb Dyna mite with Dave Del Monte as part of the 2023 Park Ridge "Music at the Barn" concert series. The concert is rain or shine. Make sure to bring chairs and blankets!

OCTOBER 2ND

FORE the Kids

Golf Classic 2023

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

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Bergen County is a non-profit organization that sup ports and promotes court-appoint ed volunteer advocacy for children in the foster system. CASA volun teers are committed to changing children’s stories. Join in to support this organization for golf, dinner, open bar, buffet dinner, 50/50, silent auction, and wine pull. Visit bergencasa.org for tickets or more information.

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