Creating beautiful, healthy smiles is our TOP PRIORITY We have friendly, caring staff that are here to help you with all of your dental needs. Working together as a team, Dr. Samuel P. Mufson, Dr. Christopher G. Lota, Dr. Joseph A. Lota, Jr., Dr. Megan Gauthier and Dr. Vincent Capazzi are dedicated to providing their patients with the highest standard of dental care available.
Over 125 5-Star Reviews!
“Great first experience! From Mary at the
helpful, and terrific.
recommending
to
“The staff is friendly and professional. As a patient I am well informed and well cared for. I have been a patient here for several years and will continue to use their services. The service was prompt, professional, and friendly.” - Derek M
“I have been seeing Dr. Mufson every month for my Invisalign treatments the past 7 months and it has been a wonderful journey thus far. Dr. Mufson has made sure that my smile is as perfect as it can be but also within reasonable terms that will be most beneficial for me. Dr. Mufson has been my dentist for the past 6 years and even though I now live 1.5 hours away, the knowledge, bedside manner and care that he gives to his patients cannot be traded. Thank you Dr. Mufson!” - Egi K
“As someone who is genuinely afraid of dentist, I cannot recommend this practice enough. The best dentist I have ever been to. Dr.Mufson is genuine, kind, caring, professional, and does excellent work. He listened to my concerns and understood my fear, and for that I am forever thankful. If you’re in need of a new dentist, look no further.” - Aneta D
Accepting New Patients
Dr.
Capazzi, Dr. Megan Gauthier, Dr. Samuel Mufson, Dr. Christopher Lota, Dr. Joseph Lota
front desk,
Sara the hygienist, to Dr. Joe Lota… all were professional,
I’ll be
Chestnut Ridge Dental to family and friends!” - Travis D
Celebrating the Heart of Home: Kids & Pets
Hello Pascack Valley,
As summer winds down and families savor the last golden weeks of sunshine, our August Kids & Pets issue is here to celebrate the joy, curiosity, and energy that children and furry companions bring into our lives—and our community.
In this issue, we shine a spotlight on some truly wonderful local gems that make the Pascack Valley such a vibrant place to raise a family. From the trusted care of Tenafly Pediatrics, who have been supporting families for generations, to the creativity and color that Balloon Chica brings to celebrations big and small, this issue is filled with stories that inspire and delight.
We also had the pleasure of visiting the Westwood Public Library, a cornerstone of our community that continues to foster a love for learning and imagination. If you haven't taken your kids there lately, this is your sign to stop in and explore everything they offer—from storytime to summer programs.
For our young athletes, we’re highlighting local wrestling programs that are building not just physical strength, but character, discipline, and confidence. And for our youngest residents (and their parents), we’re excited to feature The Bunny Hive Bergen County, a cozy, welcoming space designed for bonding, play, and early development.
Whether you’re looking for fun ways to connect with your kids, enrich their minds, or spoil your four-legged family members, this issue is filled with local businesses and programs that are doing big things in our area.
Thanks for reading and supporting Pascack Valley City Lifestyle. Here's to a month filled with play, laughter, and community!
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Anthony Rizzo | anthony.rizzo@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Nicole Zamlout | nicole.zamlout@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lucille Rizzo | lucille.rizzo@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jeremy Lebled, Clara Wang, Charissa H. Yong
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Harvey Miguel INTERN
Sarah Bogle
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dr. Darren Saks, Ariella Steinhorn, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Maria Ramos Arias, Angela Beth Studios, Stephanie Lynn Studios, Catherine DiLeo, John Vitacco, Matt McEllen, Janie Jones
Are you seeking justice and compensation for your injuries? Look no further. Martin Asatrian Law is here to fight for you every step of the way. With over two decades of legal expertise, Martin Asatrian has been championing the rights of injury victims since 2001. 15 Warren St, PHE2, Hackensack, NJ 07601 | 201-663-3164 gardenstateinjuryhelp.com | martinasatrianlaw@gmail.com
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Immaculate Heart Academy celebrated its annual Sophomore Spirit Day. 2-3: Westwood hosted its annual Memorial Day Parade to honor our troops. 4: Publisher Anthony Rizzo and Terry Ciulla presented a wreath for Park Ridge Rotary at Montvale Memorial Day Service. 5: Pascack Valley High School junior Marcus Koshy won the 1600m at the Bergen County Meet of Champions 6: The residents of Pet Lodge and Day Spa enjoyed Memorial Day weekend outside. 7: Ron and Steve represented Montvale Chamber at the 2025 Job Fair, engaging businesses and students.
LUCILLE
8: George Tomko (Post 477) reading the Honor Roll at River Vale’s Memorial Day Ceremony. 9: Caitlin Liau, Chloey Cho, and Lila Sora Bae each received the Young Women’s Leadership award from The Community Chest. 10: Hillsdale hosted its annual Memorial Day events! 11: A young boy at the Hillsdale Memorial Day Parade. 12: Mayor Arroyo cuts the ribbon to welcome ACE Global LLC to downtown Westwood’s business community. 13: The Park Ridge Rotary Club at the Montvale Street Fair for some fun. 14: Rubinstein Plastic Surgery Center had a vibrant setup at the Montvale Street Fair.
JESSICA SCULLY
MAYOR RAY ARROYO
THE COMMUNITY CHEST
ANTHONY DEROSA PHOTOGRAPHY
ANTHONY DEROSA PHOTOGRAPHY
PARK RIDGE ROTARY CLUB
PASCACK VALLEY CITY LIFESTYLE
15: Dr. Susie Kim of Montvale Prosthodontics greeted visitors at her booth during the Montvale Street Fair 16: Immaculate Heart Academy held its 62nd annual Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2025. 17: Hunter Douglas held its grand opening and ribbon cutting with Mayor Arroyo and council members. 18: Foster Timepieces held its grand opening and ribbon cutting with Mayor Arroyo and council members. 19-20: Park Ridge Rotary built planters and planted flowers at Lehmann Gardens to beautify the space. 21: Sandra Orozco ’25 won an Award for Outstanding Dance as Morticia in The Addams Family.
PARK RIDGE ROTARY CLUB
PARK RIDGE ROTARY CLUB
PASCACK VALLEY CITY LIFESTYLE
PASCACK VALLEY CITY LIFESTYLE
PASCACK VALLEY CITY LIFESTYLE
MIKE HAMLETT PHOTOGRAPHY
IHA is dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders by challenging our impressive young women to develop their God-given talents for a future filled with endless possibilities. Find out why our extensive curriculum, artistic offerings, athletic teams, and Christian service programs are second to none.
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For any donations we're able to make on your behalf, you'll receive a tax-deductible donation receipt!
Contact The Junkluggers today for a free onsite estimate!
Student Named Gatorade NJ Softball Player Of The Year!
Gabriella Shadek of Immaculate Heart Academy has been named the 202425 Gatorade NJ Softball Player of the Year. Gatorade Player of the Year is the top honor in high school sports, celebrating the nation’s best high school athletes for their success on the field, in the classroom and in the community. Shadek holds the state record with 49 home runs and volunteers with the CHD Coalition and Tackle Kids Cancer.
Photography by Mike Hamlett Photography
Downtown Westwood just got a delicious new addition. Mercato Roman Pizza, known for its wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pies, brings handcrafted flavor and modern Italian flair to the Pascack Valley. With a menu featuring fresh salads, pastas, and signature pizzas made from high-quality ingredients, it’s the perfect spot for casual dining with elevated taste. For more information or to view the menu, visit mercatopizza.com or call (201) 497-3677.
Alloy Personal Training Opens New Old Tappan Location
Alloy Personal Training has officially opened its newest location at 216 Old Tappan Road in Old Tappan. Since 1992, Alloy has delivered results-driven personal training focused on sustainable, healthy lifestyles—not fitness fads. With certified coaches, customized programs, and a supportive atmosphere, Alloy Personal Training empowers adults of all ages to reach their fitness goals. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, call 551-288-8505 for more information.
Over four decades of experience matching the right people with the right positions
The Wilner Group is a women-owned, full service, boutique staffing agency. Our passionate team of experts goes “all in” to find the most qualified candidates for the right roles.
We build deep relationships to understand how to best meet your needs. Whether you are an employer seeking top talent or a candidate searching for new opportunities, we pride ourselves on making successful placements based on a good cultural fit.
Maureen Wilner Founder & CEO
Photography by @mercatoromanpizza
Photography by @alloy.oldtappan
Experience Matters
The unique needs of clients in the Pascack Valley and neighboring North Jersey communities are made priority number one.
With a steadfast commitment to excellence, Ms. Gatto is profiled in the Top Attorneys of North America 2024-2025 edition as an attorney who has reached a recognizable degree of success and leadership in the legal profession. Buying or Selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions most people ever take part in. Having completed more than 9,000 throughout her career, she has extensive experience in all types of Real Estate and Business transactions, and individual personal transactions as well.
The Law Office of Janice Gatto is dedicated to serving clients with integrity and professionalism and Ms. Gatto’s distinguished abilities make all the difference. The Law Office of Janice Gatto has provided quality legal services to clients throughout New Jersey for the past 39 years.
the CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Back to School is just around the corner, and these Banana Oat Cookies are a perfect addition to any lunchbox! With a mix of healthy and sweet ingredients, these cookies are a great snack for kids of all ages. Check out these incredible Banana Oat Cookies.
Ingredients
• 1 ripe banana (mashed)
• 1/4 cup of organic peanut or nut butter
• 1 cup of rolled oats
• 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips
• 1/3 chopped peanuts
Directions:
1. Mix the Batter: In a small bowl, combine the banana and peanut butter. Once combined, stir in the oats and add the chocolate and peanuts.
2. Scoop the Cookies: Scoop the batter onto a lined baking sheet and flatten. Add more chips on top if desired.
3. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes at 375°F. Once they are cooled, enjoy!
Tenafly Pediatrics, where you’ll find health care professionals and staff dedicated to providing your family with the highest level of quality care… personal, considerate, sensitive, and knowledgeable. Our highest priority is your child! Their comfort, well-being, and total health.
The Bunny Hive is an elevated social club for little ones, age two weeks to kindergarten, and their grownups. We offer a wide variety of regularly scheduled classes that grownups attend with their children, including art, music, sensory, ballet, baby massage, culinary, storytime, and more – as well as social events and pop-up workshops for grownups.
209 Rivervale Rd, River Vale, NJ bergen@thebunnyhive.com follow us on IG @thebunnyhivebergen thebunnyhive.com/bergen-county 201.397.4880 (call or text) contact us
ROBERT KIYOSAKI
HOPPING TOWARD SUCCESS
HOW SIMPLE RABBIT HELPS BUSINESSES THRIVE ONLINE
A longtime Pascack Valley resident, Leann Frank launched her website design studio, Simple Rabbit, in 2023, after spending nearly a decade raising her three boys. Eager for a creative outlet, she shifted from freelance writing to self-taught web design, unlocking a new way to support small businesses throughout Bergen County.
“I really wanted to help entrepreneurs grow a sustainable business supported by a professional presence online,” Leann stated.
That vision quickly came to life. In the first few months of launching Simple Rabbit, Leann’s business began to grow through social media and word-of-mouth referrals, allowing her to expand the digital presence for many local businesses.
Simple Rabbit offers a range of services to help new and established businesses stand out in competitive markets. While Leann specializes in building custom WordPress websites, she also
supports clients with search engine optimization, Google Business Profile management, and strategies to encourage online reviews — all of which are essential for building credibility and visibility.
Leann takes a one-on-one approach with every client, offering personalized attention and understanding their unique industries and challenges.
“I learn so much from my customers,” Leann explained, “I get to explore many different industries, which is fascinating. But I also love encouraging people in their business. Owning your own business can be difficult, so when I work with a client, it’s not just about the website. Sometimes I give them a pep talk and help them discover new ways to grow their business, which is also very rewarding.”
With her personalized, purpose-driven approach, Leann is helping businesses in the Pascack Valley hop into the future — one website at a time.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to revamp your online presence, Simple Rabbit can help you stand out. If you’re ready to elevate your brand online, visit simplerabbit.co.
ARTICLE BY NICOLE ZAMLOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARISSA H. YONG PHOTOGRAPHY
Simple Rabbit is ready to help with all of your online business needs.
Leann Frank
Grieving Through It
BRITTA MULDERRIG IS THE FOUNDER OF JASPER, A PLATFORM THAT HELPS PEOPLE PROCESS GRIEF.
TELL US ABOUT THE IDEA TO CREATE JASPER?
To know me over the last 15 years was to know my dog Jasper. Jasper was my baby.
Jasper passed away a year-and-a-half ago. During that time, two of my best friends lost parents. We started to have these profound conversations about loss and purpose, and also about “disenfranchised” grief: suicide, pet loss, drug overdose, and estrangement.
I kept wondering why it was so difficult to feel supported. Why is grief so taboo and so scary for people, especially in western cultures, to discuss out loud? I figured that if I am feeling this way, others must be too.
The current tools to deal with grief are static content like podcasts, and time-boxed care through therapy. These are helpful, but they are not always dynamic and fluid to our evolving emotional states during grief.
The Jasper app is a grief support digital companion that blends community, curated tools, and on-demand care. People can sign-up for sessions led by grief counselors, or chat privately with a grief counselor or community member.
TAKE US THROUGH YOUR JOURNEY TO FINDING YOUR DOG JASPER, HOW DID YOU KNOW HE WAS “THE ONE” (OR AS SOME ON TIKTOK CALL IT, YOUR “SOUL DOG”)?
I grew up in Fairfield County, Connecticut, where I went to public schools. After high school I went to the University of Tampa, where I studied PR and advertising with a focus on web development and design. After college I started working with Tampa’s pro-hockey team the Tampa Bay Lightning. A lot of my friends left Tampa after college, and I always knew I wanted a dog as a companion. I started looking, prioritizing finding a female dog. But something hit me when I saw Jasper.
I remember being in front of a litter of black and tan Maltese Yorkies (Morkies). He was going crazy, jumping up and down, so excited and so full of energy. I left with him that day, and he was by my side ever since.
ARTICLE BY ARIELLA STEINHORN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE LYNN STUDIOS
After that we moved around a lot–to Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and eventually New York City with Google. I was excited to be closer to my family, who still live in Darien. An opportunity to grow Uber in Connecticut came to me in June 2014. I took the role and moved back to Stamford to manage Uber’s marketing in Connecticut.
Moving around never bothered me, because I always had Jasper. He made me feel like the most important person in the world, and I never felt alone.
WHAT WAS IT LIKE LOSING JASPER?
Jasper’s death was heartbreaking. I’m still not sure how I made it through.
When Jasper got sick, I was actually in the process of freezing my eggs. I found out that he had cancer the day before my retrieval.
While he was sick, I was incredibly lucky to have a support system, including my vet Dr. Shelley Skopit at Park Animal Hospital in Darien, and specialist Dr. Marnin Foreman and team at Cornell Vet in Stamford.
HOW DID THIS MAKE YOU REEVALUATE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GRIEF?
I always knew Jasper’s loss was going to absolutely devastate me. But nobody can prepare you for how viscerally that void is immediately felt.
After Jasper died I asked my therapist Stephen what I should do, and something that he said stuck with me: I would be doing myself a disservice if I didn’t truly feel my grief and work through it.
WHEN DID JASPER THE COMMUNITY AND APP LAUNCH? HAS ANYTHING LIKE IT EXISTED?
Grief is one of the biggest consumer sectors, as it’s something that everyone has to deal with at some point in life. But there is little to no innovation in this space.
Realizing how difficult it was to navigate grief in one place, I launched Jasper by myself with the help of a psychiatrist nurse practitioner friend. At first, I reached out to some people on Facebook and Reddit, and asked if they would be interested in joining.
“We want to be a platform for emotional transitions, supporting people across a lifetime of loss, change and resilience.”
- Britta Mulderrig
And the interest grew and grew. One in five of our members come from referrals. We now have multiple virtual support groups around the world every day, talking about issues like early grief, opening up your home to a new pet, and navigating the new normal of routine without your pet.
WHAT IS THE FUTURE PLAN FOR THE APP AND THE COMMUNITY?
I recently brought on my co-founder Todd Sifleet, a former Uber colleague who is an artificial intelligence and natural language processing (NLP) expert.
We’re building an artificial intelligence component as a supplement, not a substitute for human care. This means counselors will be accessible, and support will be instant and available 24/7.
Pet loss is our first area to tackle, and then we will move on to other forms of “disenfranchised” grief: those dealing with pregnancy and fertility grief, loss to suicide and overdose, and non-death griefs like estrangement and identity shifts.
We want to be a platform for emotional transitions, supporting people across a lifetime of loss, change and resilience. In a time when bereavement is rushed and many losses are considered unworthy of support, we want to shift how people deal with hard things in life
If you're interested in learning more, visit jaspertheapp.com.
READ, PLAY, Grow!
HOW THE WESTWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY MAKES SUMMER LEARNING FUN BEFORE BACK-TO-SCHOOL SEASON
ARTICLE BY NICOLE ZAMLOUT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHERINE DILEO
The Westwood Public Library is offering a variety of great children's programs for the summer of 2025
Catherine DiLeo and Sienna Tracey are doing more than just keeping kids entertained at the Westwood Public Library — they’re helping build a brighter future for the Pascack Valley.
Although the library’s children’s programming has long been a community staple, DiLeo and Tracey revitalized it after stepping into their roles less than a year ago. Using feedback from a survey, they enhanced current offerings and launched exciting new programs. These include a reimagined Movers & Shakers program and a new Design It class, where kids use everyday materials to create something uniquely their own.
This summer, the library offers a full schedule of fun and educational activities for all ages. For younger children, programs like Little Explorers combine crafts and storytelling, while Mini Builders and Play-Doh Fun encourage creativity and tactile play.
Older children can enjoy the programs at the Westwood Public Library, too. The Nintendo Switch Club, held on the first and third Wednesdays of each month, invites kids in grades 6–8 to socialize and play games. If your child is a movie lover, then the library’s Teen Movie Trivia Night on August 8th is also a great option as teens go head-to-head to answer movie questions to win great prizes.
For August, DiLeo is launching a new book club for middle schoolers, kicking off at 6 pm on August 18th. It’s a great way for kids to discover new books — and a love of reading — just in time for backto-school season.
While most of the Westwood Public Library’s programs will continue into the fall, their biggest event is ending soon. Westwood Public Library’s Summer Reading Scavenger Hunt, based on their theme of Color Our World and run by the Friends of the Westwood Public Library, started back in June and ends August 22nd.
Sienna Tracey showcasing the first pick for the new middle schooler book club at the Westwood Public Library
Catherin DiLeo and Sienna Tracy
The rules of the hunt are simple: scan the QR code at each location and watch the video featuring a Pascack Valley community member. Once that is done, you simply color the provided board and use the clues to find the next location. Not only does it allow you to be entered into a raffle for a new iPad, but it also showcases all of the amazing places and people within our community.
Whether you are able to visit the Westwood Public Library in person or not. DiLeo encourages residents to follow the library on social media and sign up for the newsletter to stay connected.
Their digital resources are also always available, allowing you access to audiobooks, e-books, and online movies anytime you need them. If you want a physical book but cannot come during normal hours, the Westwood Public Library also has lockers that residents can use for after-hours pickup.
“Whether it’s a packed event, a quiet afternoon visit, or just neighbors bumping into each other, the library becomes a shared space where everyone belongs.”
“I love being part of that energy and knowing that what we’re doing really matters to people,” DiLeo stated, “It’s also really special to see how the library brings the whole community together. Whether it's a packed event, a quiet afternoon visit, or just neighbors bumping into each other, the library becomes a shared space where everyone belongs. That’s what makes it all worth it.”
Tracey echoes this sentiment, her work giving her a front row seat to see the community thrive.
- Catherine DiLeo
DiLeo and Tracey find meaning in their work every day — from watching kids grow and develop, to helping the library serve as a central part of community life.
For DiLeo, seeing the library become that hub of local life makes each moment so rewarding.
“Every day I go to work knowing I have the opportunity to make a difference in someone's day,” Tracey mentioned, “whether it's by helping them with technology, offering a creative outlet through programming, or simply listening to their stories. Most days, I'm lucky enough to leave work feeling satisfied that I did. The sense of community is one of the things I love most about this library, and I'm grateful to feel like I’ve made a meaningful contribution to it.”
For more information on the library’s programs, visit westwoodpubliclibrary.org or follow them on Instagram @westwoodpubliclibrary.
How Balloon Chica Takes Balloon Art To New Heights
BEAUTIFUL BALLOONS
ARTICLE BY NICOLE ZAMLOUT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA RAMOS ARIAS
Arias’ passion for balloons allows her the opportunity to create amazing designs for any occasion
For Maria Ramos Arias, founder of Balloon Chica, balloon art is not just a business —it is a lifelong passion that brings so much joy to the Pascack Valley. Arias discovered balloon art back when she was working as a character actor with a children’s entertainment company. It was there that she learned the art of balloon twisting before the company moved to Florida, leaving Arias to continue her work independently.
Arias was a stay-at-home mom to her four children, while twisting balloons on the weekends. As the years progressed and her children got older, she had more time to practice twisting. Arias would work a party here and there to give her a creative outlet, but the success was yet to come.
Arias’ passion shined this past Mother’s Day
Arias’ work truly gives any event an extra layer of fun - including grand openings
Years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, opportunity knocked. After making a birthday post about a twisted balloon sculpture for her friend, the post made its way around the Pascack Valley. More and more clients began requesting home deliveries of her balloon creations, and from there, Balloon Chica was re-born. Her business shifted focus to premiere balloon sculptures, letting her showcase her skill and passion for balloons in a new light.
“I still do balloon twisting and am hands-on with the kids, which I love” Arias explained, “but doing balloon décor is also something I love since it gives me the freedom to construct it in my home studio, bring it, set it up, and leave afterword.”
Balloon Chica’s catalogue of possible structures are as vast as your imagination. Arias offers a variety of statues, arches, and garlands to help make your party pop. She also offers helium bouquets and stuffed balloons—clear balloons filled with gifts or surprises, making them perfect for special occasions and holidays.
During her company’s growth, the Balloon Chica name made its way into the corporate world. Arias has done work for the Town of Secaucus, the Palisades Mall, Hackensack Meridian Hospital, Hofstra University and even Amazon. She has continuously been called back to these companies for holiday events, movie premiers, and employee recognition and fare wells.
Beyond local celebrations and corporate events, Arias has made her mark on the larger balloon artist community. In the summer of 2024, she volunteered her time to Balloon Story Live in New York City. The collaborative construction project for balloon artists used over 600,000 balloons to create an amazing display in the Park Avenue Armory.
“The whole place was just transformed,” she recalled. “It was out of this world. Being part of that was a dream come true—it was a bucket list moment.”
Even with that impressive achievement, Arias is determined to continually hone her craft. She attends at least one of several balloon artist conventions each year and takes continuing education courses to expand her skills and stay inspired—always with the goal of bringing more joy to her clients.
That drive to spread joy is the most rewarding part to Arias, each smile amplifying her love of her art through good and bad times.
“Sometimes I’ll leave a job feeling unsure about how something turned out,” she said. “But then people come up and say, ‘That was the best balloon décor ever.’ That makes everything worth it.”
Arias’ efforts to bring that happiness to our community continues to lift spirits throughout the Pascack Valley and beyond—and it’s clear her love for balloons is not popping anytime soon.
For more information, visit balloonchica.com, follow them on Instagram @balloonchicanj, or call 732-841-4391.
Maria Ramos Arias
Barbara Brown’s work with The Bunny Hive lets her create many special moments with her children
THE Bunny HIVE
BERGEN COUNTY’S SWEETEST NEW SPOT FOR LITTLE ONES HAS ARRIVED
This fall, Pascack Valley families will have a new way to connect, grow and play—together. Local mom and educator Barbara Brown is set to open The Bunny Hive, a children’s studio offering classes and experiences designed for both children and their caregivers.
Barbara Brown
ARTICLE BY NICOLE ZAMLOUT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA BETH STUDIOS
Brown’s journey with The Bunny Hive began when she sought a new business opportunity that could include her two children. As a mother and an elementary school teacher, she was drawn to The Bunny Hive franchise due to their shared focus on family connection and helping to facilitate children’s growth in active and playful ways.
Set to open in River Vale this September, Brown is bringing that same mission to life right here at home.
“We are confident the Pascack Valley community will feel the positive impact of our studio on parents—and the difference that building a strong parent network can make in a thriving community like this one,” Brown stated.
The Bunny Hive has events for children as well as their caregivers.
Children can enjoy a variety of activities, like cooking classes, at The Bunny Hive
“THE BUNNY HIVE STUDIO IS A SPACE THAT IS COMMITTED TO TAKING CARE OF ALL THE LITTLE THINGS SO THAT PARENTS AND CARETAKERS CAN FOCUS AND ENJOY THEIR LITTLE ONE.”
- BARBARA BROWN
The Bunny Hive Bergen County will offer a variety of enrichment classes for children ages 0 to 4, including art, ballet, culinary, sensory lab, pre-K prep, and more. But the experience goes beyond just children’s programming.
The studio’s unique member social club is designed to help caregivers and children connect—and have fun—together. Events like “Create a Stuffy,” where children design their own stuffed animals, aim to spark joy while building family bonds.
For parents seeking a little time for themselves, The Bunny Hive also offers grown-up–only events through its social club. Experiences such as the Bouquet Making workshop—featuring curated vendors like partner Vino on Wheels—make every visit special.
All of these offerings truly allow The Bunny Hive to help deepen the connections within families, aiding the engagement between parents and children by creating a welcoming space for both.
“As parents,” Brown explained, “our children will vary in their level of comfort among others. We’ve found that when parents feel welcome and engaged, their children are more at ease and ready to participate. That’s why we prioritize the caregiver experience first—so everything else can fall into place.”
Assembling those pieces is only one aspect of what makes The Bunny Hive such a great space. For Brown, the most vital part of The Bunny Hive’s work is that it lets parents put the overwhelming aspects of parenthood aside and have a place where enjoying every precious moment with your child takes priority.
“As a mom, I always feel like my mind is running a thousand miles a minute and it's sometimes almost impossible to be present,” Brown mentioned, “The Bunny Hive studio is a space that is committed to taking care of all the little things so that parents and caretakers can focus and enjoy their little one. It sounds simple, but it isn't. When the responsibility of parenthood can be drowning, having a haven to turn to for a few moments a day can make all the difference.”
Brown’s work with The Bunny Hive is truly set to bring that kind of haven to the Pascack Valley when the studio opens its doors to the community this September.
The Bunny Hive
The Bunny Hive is now accepting enrollments. Reach out today to reserve your spot and be among the first to experience this exciting new space for families in Bergen County by visiting their website thebunnyhive.com/bergen-county or following them on Instagram @thebunnyhivebergen.
The Bunny Hive helps to encourage a strong connection between children and parents
From Mat to Mindset
How Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills’ Kids Wrestling Teams Help Students Build Strength and Confidence
John Vitacco and Matt McEllen are doing more than simply coaching young athletes in wrestling — they are helping kids across the Pascack Valley learn to take on life’s challenges head-on with confidence.
The Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills Kids Wrestling programs have been cornerstones of the community for decades. As part of a larger league with 54 teams across Bergen and Passaic counties, these local teams offer much more than just physical training.
Since taking over in 2023 and 2024 respectively, McEllen and Vitacco—both current wrestling parents—have continued to nurture the energy and vision within their programs. Their personal connection to the program has helped guide its growth, even since setbacks like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, the Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills’ teams are thriving, welcoming anyone who is interested. Each team has seen a rise in not only male but female participants, coinciding with the rise of women’s wrestling in America.
For both Vitacco and McEllen, the program they want to encourage children to participate in is the combined Twin County Junior Wrestling League. This travel team allows children from both teams to compete and work together, preparing for matches and learning new moves.
ARTICLE BY NICOLE ZAMLOUT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN VITACCO AND MATT MCELLEN
While Vitacco and McEllen do enjoy the playful rivalry that is famous across the area between the school districts, they largely view their combined team as a great way to foster cooperation among the next generation.
Whether through local matches or tournament preparation, the focus across all three programs is on more than just winning. Vitacco and McEllen use wrestling as a tool to help children develop discipline, resilience, and self-belief.
“I tell the kids that preparing to be great at this sport is a very long game and the work isn’t always immediately rewarding” McEllen explained, “Every workout/training session is the equivalent to putting a drop of water in a bucket. It may not seem like much after a week, but over time, those drops accumulate until you get a full bucket. That is what is so rewarding about this program: the kids, every year, are building themselves up.”
Inspiring that confidence is easy to do within Vitacco’s and McEllen’s programs, as so many former alumni, parents, and fellow coaches are there to help these programs succeed. Whether they are simply competing at the recreation level or going to a larger competition, the community surrounding these programs is there to cheer the kids on.
"You can see and feel the strong sense of community," Vitacco said, "which is amazing to be a part of."
For those kids, that sense of community and confidence helps them grow and learn lessons no other sport
can teach. Vitacco and McEllen get to watch with pride as their wrestlers take on every competition with strength and smiles each year.
“My biggest goal,” Vitacco mentioned, “is to see these kids come back and grow. In New Jersey, almost every town has a wrestling team. It is a competitive environment, but it is always great to see kids continue to be involved and learn what they are capable of.”
That continued support gives Pascack Valley’s young wrestlers something to strive for—helping them grow stronger with every match, every takedown, and every moment on the mat.
Registration for both the Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills teams begins September 1st. For more information on PV's programs, email John Vitacco at pascackvalleywrestling@gmail.com or visit www.pascackvalleywrestling.com. For more information on PH's programs, visit cowboyswrestling.org.
Both PV’s and PH’s programs help to not only help children grow in the sport, but inspire confidence in its participants
Community support is the backbone of PV’s and PH’s Wrestling programs
DJ Gangi
Matteo Uzzi
WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
BY JANIE JONES
PHOTOGRAPHY
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Sure, teaching a young child how to crack an egg or measure flour can test your patience—but hang in there. With a little trial and a fair amount of error, they’ll start to develop the fine motor skills that allow them to prep a recipe all on their own one day. The best part? They’ll gain confidence along the way, one scoop, stir, and sprinkle at a time.
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. These little moments of pretend play actually help build the fine motor skills needed for real kitchen tasks. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. The flour might fly, the sugar might spill, and the measurements might be slightly off—and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tablespoons white flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon
Steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
EMBRACE THE MESS, STAY PATIENT, AND FOCUS ON THE FUN.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
FRESH STARTS FOR Young Minds
Tenafly Pediatrics’ Dr. Saks Shares Practical Tips For Raising Healthy, Happy Kids— Mind, Body, and Spirit.
ARTICLE BY DR. DARREN SAKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY LEBLED
Dr. Darren Saks of Tenafly Pediatrics
Tenafly Pediatrics’ dedication to children’s health is not only admirable—it’s deeply rewarding for the doctors who watch their young patients grow year after year. Founded in 1976 with just two pediatricians in Tenafly, the practice has since expanded to 10 locations across northeastern New Jersey, thanks to its trusted reputation and growing demand.
Dr. Saks joined the practice in 2001, drawn by a love for working with children and the meaningful insights that pediatric medicine provides. Over the years, he has become a valued and familiar face at Tenafly Pediatrics. In our August issue, Dr. Saks shares important tips on improving your child’s physical and mental health throughout the rest of summer and into the busy back-to-school season: Fall is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to reinforce healthy habits, commit to new ones, and stay on top of preventive care. An effective way to create lasting change is to keep resolutions focused and simple. Try focusing on three things: one change to improve your mind, one change to improve your body, and a commitment to trying something new. For children, here’s a helpful list that puts that strategy into action:
1. IMPROVE YOUR CHILD'S MIND: LIMIT SCREEN TIME
Children learn best from being social and navigating their world through play and reciprocal communication. Staring at screens and playing video games does not fulfill that optimal developmental and learning experience. As technology has become increasingly integrated into our daily lives, screen time has surged—so much so that the average school-aged child now spends 6 to 8 hours a day in front of screens, including TVs, tablets, smartphones, and computers. While screens are part of modern life, it’s crucial to be mindful of both the quantity and quality of what your child sees. Excessive screen time can interfere with brain development, sleep, and attention span. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends:
• Babies under 18 months: No screen time, except for video chatting with family or friends
• Toddlers 18–24 months: Some screen time with a parent or caregiver present, such as educational programming
• Children 2–5 years: Up to one hour of screen time per day, with a limit of three hours on weekends
• Children 6 and older: Limit screen time and encourage healthy habits
• Teens and adults: Up to two hours of screen time per day
Dr. Darren Saks preparing for a patient
Dr. Darren Saks
2. IMPROVE YOUR CHILD'S DIET: CUT ADDED SUGARS
We all came from an ancient world where access to sugar, the simplest metabolic boost, was rare and when it was discovered in berries and select foraging foods, we voraciously gobbled it up. That is why we evolved to crave sugar- it was a scarce efficient energy source but now we are in a mismatched world. In the modern world we desire something that is now plentiful. Sugar and refined carbohydrates are best described as the food that nobody needs and everyone craves. These common foods and drinks, loaded with added sugars and refined carbs, are staples in many children’s diets today—but to our ancestors, even brief access to them would have felt like winning the lottery:
• Breakfast cereals
• Candy
• Juices and energy drinks
• Pasta
• Rice
• Bread Overconsumption of sugar has been linked to obesity, diabetes, tooth decay, cognitive decline, and even cancer.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
• Children under age 2 should avoid added sugars altogether.
• Children age 2 and older should limit added sugar to less than 10% of daily calories (no more than 200 calories should come from added sugars, about 12 teaspoons, for a 2,000-calorie diet)
TENAFLY PEDIATRICS
For more information or to make an appointment, visit tenaflypediatrics.com/park-ridge-office or call 201-326-7120.
Tenafly Pediatrics’ Park Ridge office is open Monday – Thursday from 8:30am to 5:00pm and Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm. Note that they are closed for lunch 12:30pm – 1:30pm and that they are open on weekends only for sick visits.
Dr.
Darren Saks
“As summer winds down, pause and ask: How can I best support my child’s wellbeing? Small, intentional changes can lead to lifelong benefits.”
- Dr. Darren Saks
Parents set the tone—limiting sugar in your child’s diet is one of the simplest and most powerful health decisions you can make. Even better, make the commitment together.
3. TRY SOMETHING NEW—TOGETHER
One of the most effective ways to ward off dementia and cognitive decline is to dig your heels into a challenging new activity. This is an article focusing on children’s health, so it may seem strange to discuss dementia which is a problem for adults. It is, however, very relevant because the success of a family unit is dependent on the mental health of all its parts, so if a parent or caregiver starts to exhibit mental decline, the health of the family unit declines with it. As a parent, participating in a new activity with your child strengthens your bond and promotes mental sharpness— for both of you. There are so many activities we schedule FOR our children like karate classes, soccer practice, piano lessons, and art classes, but what about the idea of scheduling some of those same activities WITH your children. If you don't know how to play the piano, imagine how wonderful it would be to share the experience of learning to play an instrument alongside your kindergartner. Imagine you have never been a sporty person, but you take tennis lessons WITH your child. Here is a simple list of ideas to explore together:
• Learn a new language
• Take up a new sport
• Practice an instrument
• Try a strategy-based board game like chess, Go, or Mancala
Final thoughts if you’ve made it this far in the article. As summer winds down, pause and ask: How can I best support my child’s well-being? Small, intentional changes can lead to lifelong benefits. Have a great rest of your summer, and here’s to a healthy, happy start to the school year!
Pascack Valley Realty Market Report
Navigating the local real estate landscape, whether you're a resident, investor, or looking to join our community.
Maximize Your Home Sale: What Every Seller Needs to Know About the New Commission Rules
By Slava Zborovsky, Slava Realty Group powered by Christie’s International Real Estate
The recent NAR settlement has sparked a lot of questions and concerns in the real estate world, particularly regarding how commissions will be handled moving forward. Initially, I, like many in the business, wasn’t sure what the big deal was. For years, I have negotiated full commissions for my listings, typically 4% or 5%, which were then split with the buyer’s agent. However, upon closer consideration, I began to realize the opportunities this new approach offers—especially in our local New Jersey market.
One of the most significant changes is the flexibility it introduces for sellers. In the past, commissions were essentially locked in; while we could negotiate the total commission, the buyer’s agent portion was relatively fixed. Now, sellers can be more strategic. There’s no longer a requirement to disclose how much you’re offering a buyer’s agent upfront. For instance, what if the buyer’s agent is willing to work for 1%? Or what if they bring a fantastic offer but ask for 3%, and the net to the seller is still better? Sellers now have more room to negotiate based on the value that buyer agents bring to the table.
Another benefit for sellers is the possibility that buyers may decide to cover their agent’s fee entirely. Especially in today’s competitive market with limited inventory, buyers are eager to make their offers more attractive. One way to do that is to absorb the cost of their agent’s commission, making the deal even sweeter for the seller.
This flexibility is particularly useful in markets like New Jersey, where inventory is tight, and homes are selling rapidly. In this environment, sellers hold most of the power and can negotiate every part of the transaction, including commissions. However, if the market shifts and inventory increases, sellers might need to start offering to cover part or all of the buyer’s agent commission as an incentive to draw in offers. The key here is being strategic with the terms and finding ways to maximize the seller’s net profit. This new landscape emphasizes more than ever the importance of working with the right real estate professional. It’s no longer just about putting a house on the market and waiting for offers to roll in. It’s about having the expertise to negotiate commissions and terms that protect your bottom line. As agents, our job is to craft a strategy that maximizes the seller’s return, whether it’s negotiating down the buyer’s agent fee or finding creative ways to attract buyers without sacrificing the seller’s interests.
The NAR settlement also brings more transparency for buyers. Now, buyers will need to sign formal representation agreements with their agents before home tours, clearly outlining the fees involved. This benefits both buyers and sellers by ensuring clarity from the start, but it also means that working with an experienced agent who can navigate this more complex process is essential.
From a buyer’s perspective, these changes present both challenges and opportunities. Firsttime buyers, who are already facing financial pressures, might find it harder to cover their agent’s commission on top of down payments and closing costs. However, more experienced buyers may see this as a chance to negotiate fees with their agent or request that the seller cover part of the commission. Ultimately, the flexibility offered by this new approach can be an advantage to both sides if navigated correctly.
Pricing is another area that could be affected by these changes. With sellers no longer required to pay the buyer’s agent commission, they may adjust their listing prices accordingly. In hot markets, we could see prices decrease slightly as sellers save on commissions. However, in buyer-heavy markets, sellers might increase their prices to offer incentives like covering the buyer’s agent fees. Again, the key here is strategic negotiation to ensure the best deal for the seller.
In summary, while the NAR settlement brings significant changes to how commissions are handled, it also offers new opportunities for sellers to take control of their expenses and negotiate better deals. In a market as dynamic as ours, working with a knowledgeable real estate professional who understands these shifts is crucial to maximizing your returns.
If you have any questions about how these changes could affect your buying or selling strategy, feel free to reach out to me, your local real estate specialist. I’m here to help you navigate this evolving landscape and ensure you make the most informed decisions possible.
Slava Zborovsky Broker
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AUGUST 2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY SUNDAY
Ramsey Farmers Market
Main Street Train Station - Station Plaza & W Main St, Ramsey | 9:00 AM
Come down to the Ramsey Farmers Market to enjoy some summer shopping! With a rotating list of vendors, special events, and children's activities, it is the perfect place to find new places to try and enjoy a summer's day! For more information, visit ramseyfarmersmarket.org.
AUGUST 4TH
Move, Learn, & Grow
Oradell Public Library - 375 Kinderkamack Rd, Oradell | 10:30 AM
Come by the Oradell Public Library for a lovely morning of yoga! Ms. Shelley of Every Little Thing Yoga is hosting a yoga class for parents and children 18 months to 5 years old, giving both parent and child a soothing space to stretch this summer. To register, visit oradellpubliclibrary.org.
AUGUST 4TH-8TH
Red Wolves 6-8 Year Olds
Bergen County Zoo - 216 Forest Ave, Paramus | 9:00 AM
This August 4th-8th the Bergen County Zoo is hosting their Backyard Zoo week! Come and learn about the variety of animals that can be found in our own backyards and how they affect our daily lives. For more information, visit friendsofbergencountyzoo.org.
AUGUST 7TH-28TH
Westwood Movies in the Park
Veterans' Memorial Park - 50 Madison Ave, Westwood | 8:00 PM
Residents of Westwood and nearby towns grab chairs, blankets, and their picnic baskets to catch a variety of family-friendly films this month in Veterans Memorial Park! Films range from popular animated films to nostalgic musicals to nail-biting action movies. These summer films are held every Thursday in August for an entertaining evening with family and friends.
AUGUST 7TH
Paddles & Prosecco
Bergen County Pickleball Club101 North Summit Street, Tenafly | 7:00 PM
Join the Bergen Volunteers at the 2nd annual Paddles & Prosecco event! This fun night offers a variety of pickleball matches, lessons from skilled instructors, food, drinks, networking, raffles and more! Proceeds will go to Bergen Volunteers' impactful programs supporting seniors, youths, and families throughout the county. For more information and tickets, visit bergenvolunteers.org.
The annual Wine Festival is returning to Demarest Farms! Come by to enjoy wine tasting, live entertainment, and more. Tickets are $15 per person; must be 21+ to enter. For more information, visit demarestfarms.com
At Garden State Garage & Siding, we’re more than just contractors— we’re a woman-owned, family-run business dedicated to delivering top-quality home transformations with expert craftsmanship and a personal touch. From roofing and siding to windows, gutters, and garage doors, we bring your vision to life with style, durability, and precision—all while providing a seamless, stress-free experience!
Craftsmanship You Can Trust: Whether it’s a roof replacement, new windows, seamless gutters, show-stopping siding, or garage doors that make a statement, we deliver high-quality, long-lasting results.
1-on-1 Project Management: Every project gets a dedicated project manager to ensure clear communication, smooth execution, and your complete satisfaction.
Woman-Owned & Family-Run: We take pride in our work and treat every home like our own, ensuring honest service, expert guidance, and unmatched quality.
Visit Our Showroom: See premium materials up close & plan your project with our experienced team!
