Kids + Pets
JONAS K. SEIGEL Partner
JAN K. SEIGEL Partner
JJ ENTERTAINMENT
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Celebrating Kids, Pets, and Community This August
Dear Readers,
As the summer sun shines bright across Bergen County—from Franklin Lakes to Mahwah, Wyckoff to Oakland—my two fur babies, Finn, our wise rescue, and Bailey, our ever-energetic lab puppy, continue to keep our home lively and full of laughter. Whether it’s Finn’s calm “old soul” wisdom or Bailey’s relentless puppy antics (slippers beware!), they remind me daily of the special bond pets bring to family life—and how much joy, comfort and sometimes chaos, they add to our days.
This month’s Kids & Pets issue is dedicated to celebrating those moments— whether it’s a tail wag, a smile shared, or a story that warms the heart. These are the memories that stay with us long after the season fades, and we’re thrilled to share so many meaningful ones from our community.
Start by checking out “10 Pet Must-Haves of the Season” on page 14, where we highlight essentials to keep your furry friends happy, healthy, and stylish all summer long. Finn and Bailey have definitely put a few of these favorites to the test!
Turn to page 26 for “Paws, Smiles & Star Moments,” a heartwarming collection of local pets who’ve stolen the spotlight—and maybe a few hearts along the way.
We’re still riding the excitement from our Ramapo Valley Launch Party recap on page 18—an unforgettable night of community, connection, and celebration that brought together some of the brightest local talents and businesses. It’s a moment we’re still smiling about.
And on page 40, meet two local champions in “Sir Winslow and Buzz Take the Crown,” where these beloved pups prove that the crown isn’t just about looks, but heart and spirit too.
If you’re curious about alternative ways to care for your pet, “Holistic Pet Care” on page 36 offers expert insights on natural and integrative approaches to keep your pets thriving, inside and out.
Last but not least, our recipe for “Peanut Butter Oat Balls” on page 32 is a kidfriendly, dog-approved treat sure to delight the whole family. Trust me, Bailey’s seal of approval comes with a wag and a bark!
From my family (four-legged included) to yours, thank you for letting us be part of your community and your stories. Here’s to a joyful, playful, and safe summer with the kids and pets we love so much.
Cheers,
CARLY MAC MANUS, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @RAMAPOVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Mike Duffy | mike.duffy@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Carly Montalbano
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jane Alzate, Lori Nittoli, Hilary Russo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Beth Berardi, Gabe Rhodes, Phil Aumack, Kartheek
Hedge, Nelson Santos Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
Joe Simone Realtor®
With over a billion dollars in sales and a track record that ranks him among the top 1% of agents nationwide – Joe Simone is recognized for his strong negotiating skills and his ability to
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PET MUST-HAVES Season OF THE 10
Our favorite finds from Petzlove Food n’ Stuffz in Montvale—because your pet deserves the best
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETZLOVE FOOD N’ STUFFZ IN MONTVALE
Stylish sun protection in a lightweight, comfy tee—perfect for those sunny strolls. $35.99 3 4 5
ITEM NUMBER 1: Fromm Crunchy O’s Smokin’ CheesePlosions Dog Treats A blast of cheesy crunch in every bite. These treats are a snacktime essential . $22.99
ITEM NUMBER 2: Fromm Four-Star Nutritionals Chicken Au Frommage Cat Food (4-lb) For feline foodies—this gourmet dry blend is rich, savory, and totally satisfying. $21.99
ITEM NUMBER 3: Benebone Bacon Flavored Wishbone Dog Chew Toy (Medium) Built to last with irresistible bacon flavor, this wishbone keeps chewers busy for hours . $14.99
ITEM NUMBER 4: Outward Hound Granby RipStop Dog Life Jacket (Small, Bright Orange) Keep your pup safe during beach days and boat rides with this high-visibility lifesaver. $33.99
ITEM NUMBER 5: Goldpaw Sun Shield Dog Tee (Ocean Heather, Size 16)
ITEM NUMBER 6 NutriSource Come-Pooch-A Chicken Bone Broth Dog Food Topper (12-oz)
Pour on the flavor! This hydrating topper adds a nutritious boost to every bowl. $6.99
ITEM NUMBER 7: Bocce’s Bakery Fish & Chips Dog Treats (5-oz)
Crunchy, clean, and made with love—these bitesized treats are a seafood delight. $7.99
ITEM NUMBER 8: Tall Tails Hide & Seek Bait Plush Dog Toy (9-in)
Interactive fun meets cozy cuddles with this plush hide-and-seek toy. $22.99
ITEM NUMBER 9: GoDog Checkers Chew Guard Skinny Rooster Toy (Large, Brown)
Durable enough for rough players, silly enough for photo ops. $22.99
ITEM NUMBER 10: Safari Double Row Undercoat Rake Dog Grooming Tool
Say goodbye to shedding—this brush helps keep your pet’s coat clean and cool . $14.99 6 7 8
Family & Newborn Photography in Pompton Lakes, NJ
Maria Rogers is a beloved figure in the community of Franklin Lakes, NJ. With over ten years of experience as a photographer, Maria has become the go-to Bergen County Newborn and Family Photographer for capturing life’s most precious moments in New Jersey. Her specialty is newborn photography, but she also takes pleasure in capturing the growth and changes of expectant mothers and families over time.
As a mother of three, Maria understands the importance of preserving a family’s legacy. Every moment shared together is a precious chapter in our story, and through photography, we can create a timeless record of our journey. These photographs become cherished memories that we can hold onto forever and share with future generations. For Maria, capturing a family’s legacy is not just a job, it’s a heartfelt mission to preserve the beauty and essence of family life for years to come.
Family | Newborn | Maternity | Cake Smash | Fresh 48 | Holiday | And More
Fri, Sat, Sun 9am-4pm Mon, Tues, Thurs 9am-8pm Closed Every Wed
Revved Up for Ramapo Valley
RAMAPO VALLEY CITY LIFESTYLE LAUNCH PARTY
HITS FULL THROTTLE AT LAMBORGHINI PARAMUS
On June 5, Ramapo Valley City Lifestyle officially made its debut with a launch party that transformed the Lamborghini Paramus showroom into one of the social events of the season.
Sleek cars, signature cocktails and a buzzing guest list came together to celebrate the arrival of a publication focused on spotlighting the people, brands and businesses that give Bergen County its edge. The night was a perfect blend of elegance, community and unforgettable moments that left guests asking one thing — when’s the next one?
THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES
The evening was powered by a dedicated team. Sales Director Mike Duffy brought his signature spark and community ties. Publisher Jake Slowinski and Executive Director Tiffany Slowinski provided warmth and vision, while Publication Director Carly MacManus kept every detail on track, working seamlessly with Events by LN, which produced the event with style and intention. With the support of an incredible group of interns, they created a high-energy, high-impact evening.
Natasha Ford, marketing manager at Lamborghini Paramus, was fully invested from the start — collaborative and committed to ensuring that every detail felt just right. General Manager Eddie Jones was equally hands-on, supported by a professional and enthusiastic sales and service team. Test drives of the brand-new hybrid Urus added just the right amount of excitement to an already electric night. The Lamborghini team went above and beyond to welcome guests and help the event run as smoothly as, well — a Lamborghini.
ARTICLE BY LORI NITTOLI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NELSON SANTOS PHOTOGRAPHY
Allendale Flowers + CXB.Design
The night was more than a party; it was a testament to the power of community, collaboration and creativity. Every touchpoint, from branding to execution, reflected the magazine’s mission to connect, uplift and celebrate the people and businesses shaping life in Ramapo Valley.
A HIGH-OCTANE ATMOSPHERE
Guests enjoyed Dirty Pelican’s organic mixers and signature cocktails from Stiir Bar, including the Spicy Ramaporita and the Lychee Lambotini. Iachetti’s Kitchen served flavorful passed bites, while Chef Bill from Piatto Di Pasta wowed the crowd with an interactive station where guests made their own fresh agnolotti.
Scoops on Wheels brought gourmet ice cream magic, and Treat Me Sweet’s luxe branded cookies and cake pops disappeared fast. Guests couldn’t stop raving about the attention to detail — from the themed desserts to the flawless presentation.
The energy carried into the night thanks to music by JJ Entertainment. Allendale Flowers transformed the showroom with bold floral installations that highlighted the hybrid Urus orange. Signage by CXB. Design tied the space together from “welcome” to “thank you.” The night’s must-have photo moment? Posing at the Ramapo Valley City Lifestyle step-and-repeat, captured by the digital photo booth from Nelson Santos Photography.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
A special thanks to the brands that helped bring the event to life:
• Allendale Flowers
• CXB.Design
• Dirty Pelican
• Events by LN
• Iachetti’s Kitchen
• JJ Entertainment LLC
• Lamborghini Paramus
• Nelson Santos Photography
• Piatto Di Pasta
• Scoops on Wheels
• Stiir Bar
• Treat Me Sweet
“This launch was more than a party— it was a celebration of Bergen County’s energy, creativity, and community.”
- Mike Duffy
Lamborghini Paramus
“Every detail mattered. We wanted guests to feel inspired, welcomed, and part of something special from the moment they arrived.” - Carly Mac Manus
WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR FOUNDING PARTNERS
These are the visionaries who believed in Ramapo Valley City Lifestyle before the first issue was even printed:
• Branch to Branch Tree Service
• Budget Blinds of Wayne, Mahwah & Kinnelon
• Cenia New York
• Compass – Maryanne Elsaesser
• Events by LN
• First Light Home Care – Glen Rock
• Infrared Light Sauna Studio
• Jelena D Salon
• Lauren Matina – Novateur Style
• Magnolia Home Improvement
• NJ Decks and Railings • Piatto Di Pasta
• Rand Realty – Joe Simone
• RE/MAX – Chopper Russo Team
• Team Spark Advisors
• Total Comfort Services LLC
WHAT’S NEXT
The launch party was more than a celebration — it was a statement. Ramapo Valley City Lifestyle is here, and it’s ready to lead. With a strong team and big energy, you won’t want to miss what’s coming next.
JJ Entertainment LLC
Dirty Pelican
Nelson Santos Photography
Scoops on Wheels
Treat Me Sweet
Iachetti’s Kitchen
Chef Bill - Piatto Di Pasta
Paws, Smiles & STAR MOMENTS
Highlights from Our 2025 Cover Model Casting Call
We came. We saw. We wagged!
A huge thank-you to everyone who came out to our Ramapo Valley 2025 Cover Model Casting Call—and especially to all the fabulous pups who showed up ready for their close-up. The energy, joy, and community spirit on display made this one of our most memorable events yet.
Our inaugural casting call was even better than expected! With so many adorable, camera-ready companions in attendance, choosing just one star wasn’t easy. But after an incredible turnout and an enthusiastic voting round, our winners truly earned their place on the cover of this very issue.
Beyond the contest itself, the day was a celebration of everything we love: local families, beloved pets, and the joy of gathering as a community.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW
JERSEY CITY LIFESTYLE
RALPHIE
MAVERIC
SHADOW
RAFFI
RANGER
VINNY
BLEU
We’re incredibly grateful to our event partners who helped make the day a success: Wyckoff Veterinary Hospital – for generously hosting us in their new beautiful space. Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards & Boxes in Wyckoff – for the fun, festive Barkuterie Board and treats!
To all who attended, thank you for sharing your time, your pets and your spirit with us. Your presence made the event truly special, and we loved seeing the bond between pets and their people shine through in every photo.
If you haven’t already, be sure to follow us on Instagram at @ramapovalleycitylifestyle and @newjerseycitylifestyle to see even more behind-the-scenes moments and updates from our August issue.
We loved celebrating your pups—and you—with this year’s casting call, and we’re already counting down the days until the next one. Here’s to community, creativity, and plenty of wagging tails.
WYCKOFF VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Veterinarian in Wyckoff, NJ
Providing compassionate care for pets.
Address: 690 Wyckoff Ave, Wyckoff Phone: (551) 955-0900
Website: wyckoffvet.com
GRAZE CRAZE CHARCUTERIE BOARDS & BOXES – WYCKOFF
Custom Charcuterie - Beautifully curated boards and boxes for any occasion.
Address: 382 Main St, Wyckoff Phone: (201) 468-0023
Website: grazecraze.com/wyckoff-nj
BOSCO SPECK
ROCKEY
BEAR AND IZZY
Elevate your next event with Stiir, New Jersey’s premier mobile cocktail bar! From signature cocktails to custom mocktails, Stiir brings high-quality drinks, exceptional service, and a touch of sophistication right to your celebration
Peanut Butter Oat Balls
A WHOLESOME SNACK FOR PUPS AND THEIR TINY HUMANS
Peanut Butter Oat Balls
At Graze Craze of Wyckoff, we absolutely love creating experiences that bring families and their furry companions together. One of our favorite moments during your recent event was seeing kids and pups nibbling happily side by side—whether it was fresh fruits and veggies or our crowd-favorite peanut butter oat ball treats.
These oat balls are not only quick and easy to make, but they’re also wholesome enough for kids and safe for pups (just be sure to use pet-safe ingredients). They’ve become a hit on our barkuterie board.
PEANUT BUTTER OAT BALLS
A wholesome snack for pups & their tiny humans
INGREDIENTS
¾ cup old-fashioned oats
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter (use all-natural, xylitol-free) Allergy-friendly alternative: Use sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter 2 tablespoons honey (optional: adjust to taste)
OPTIONAL MIX-INS (KID-SAFE, PUP-APPROVED):
Unsweetened shredded coconut
Finely grated carrots or apples
Crushed blueberries
A pinch of cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. In a large bowl, stir together the oats, peanut butter, and honey until well combined.(Tip: Use a food processor to pulse the oats first for a smoother texture.)
2. Add in any mix-ins if desired.
3. Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough. Roll into 1-inch balls with your hands (wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking).
4. Enjoy immediately, or flash freeze for 30 minutes for a cool, refreshing treat!
“One of our favorite moments during your recent event was seeing kids and pups nibbling happily side by side.” - Jane Alzate
ARTICLE BY JANE ALZATE
Based in Bergen County EventsbyLN.com hello@eventsbyln.com @Eventsby LN
• Trusted by
•
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Holistic Pet Care
A Whole-Body Approach for Happier, Healthier Pets
ARTICLE BY HILARY RUSSO
If you’re one of the 87 million homes in the United States that has a pet, you likely consider them part of your family, with more people seeing their furry friends as part of their emotional well-being. So giving them the best care is a top priority. The trouble is, your pet could be suffering—even when you think you’re providing them with the ultimate TLC.
THE GROWING CHALLENGE: CHRONIC ILLNESS IN PETS
As holistic healthcare grows in popularity among humans, our pets need it too. More pet owners are seeking alternatives to conventional veterinary care, turning toward holistic approaches that treat animals as whole beings rather than just a set of symptoms.
Dr. Kenneth Fischer, owner of Hillsdale Animal Hospital in Hillsdale, NJ, has been a practicing veterinarian for 34 years. After seeing an increase in chronic illnesses among pets, he took a deep dive into the research. “We were treating with medications to deal with the symptoms and get on the medical merry-go-round,” says Fischer.
In a recent HIListically Speaking Podcast episode, Dr. Marlene Siegel shared some shocking facts about chronic illness in pets. “This isn’t just in older animals, I’m seeing cancers in dogs under a year old,” says Dr. Siegel, who has been a vet for over 40 years. “Add autoimmune diseases, obesity, arthritis, GI disorders, allergies and skin diseases...” says the owner of Pasco Veterinary Medical Center in Lutz, FL.
This isn’t just a dog problem. This alarming trend underscores the need for a more nuanced, whole-body approach.
ROOT CAUSES AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Addressing the underlying causes of illness allows vets to get to the root of your pet’s health concerns. Contributing factors that have the biggest impact include:
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Pets rely on essential nutrients that must come from food, and deficiencies impair their health. Not all pet foods are created equal. “As consumers, we have to start waking up and saying I am not willing to give you my money if you are not going to give me back a product that is going to support the health and longevity of my pet,” says Siegel.
• Toxins: Since World War II, over 100,000 synthetic toxins have entered our food, water, and environment, overwhelming pets’ natural elimination systems.
• Mitochondrial Dysfunction: When mitochondria can’t function properly, energy production falters, leading to disease.
“Together, these create a perfect storm of chronic illness,” Siegel says. “Success depends on proper education and implementation. Social media is noisy and misleading, so finding reputable information and acting on it is critical.”
Fischer agrees. “You have to be your pet’s health advocate too instead of turning everything over to the medical system. The days of the paternalistic doctors saying ‘everything is OK’ and pat you on the head are behind us,” says Fischer.
Dr. Janet Roark owns Hill Country Mobile Veterinary Services in Austin, TX. On the HIListically Speaking Podcast, the “Essential Oil Vet” encourages pet owners to consider thinking outside the box. “You have more options than you think. Whether we’re dealing with skin issues, anxiety, immune support, or chronic conditions, essential oils can offer a natural, effective, and gentle solution, when used properly,” says Roark. That also means finding a vet who is knowledgeable and experienced in both traditional and holistic care.
“You have more options than you think. Whether we’re dealing with skin issues, anxiety, immune support, or chronic conditions, essential oils can offer a natural, effective, and gentle solution, when used properly,” - Dr. Janet Roark
THE FUTURE OF PET HEALTH
This isn’t about rejecting traditional medicine or considering holistic care “woo-woo.” It’s about going further to ask why an illness developed and how your vet can help the whole animal thrive. When combined, these approaches lead to better outcomes through prevention, lifestyle changes, and individualized care.
“The only uncomfortable thing about coming here is that I’m going to make you take ownership of your pet’s health decisions. You need to engage, ask questions instead of turning it over blindly to the medical system,” says Fischer.
With chronic illness rates rising and many pets suffering silently, this integrated approach offers hope and a more balanced, empowered partnership between vets and pet parents.
In your journey as a pet owner, remember: you are your pet’s best advocate. Seeking holistic care means looking beyond symptoms, embracing education, and using all the tools available to support your furry family member’s lifelong health.
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOLISTIC PET CARE?
Tune into the episode 185 with Dr. Marlene Siegel and episode 47 with Dr. Janet Roark on the HIListically Speaking Podcast with Hilary Russo
October 19 at 11:00 AM
October 23 at 6:30 PM
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SIR WINSLOW AND BUZZ TAKE THE CROWN
SALON DOGS, BEST FRIENDS, AND NOW COVER CONTEST ROYALTY— THESE MI-KIS ARE STEALING HEARTS AND SPOTLIGHT.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARTHEEK HEDGE
Buzz and SIR WINSLOW
Sir Winslow and Buzz aren’t just cover-worthy—they’re coworkers, companions, and community celebrities. The Mi-Ki duo has officially been crowned winners of the 2025 Ramp Valley Doggy Cover Contest, and their story is full of heart, loyalty and a whole lot of fluff.
Sir Winslow, affectionately known as Win, Winnie or Sir Wins-A-Lot, is 2.5 years old. His protégé and best friend, Buzz, is a 10-month-old Mi-Ki who joined the pack after stealing the heart of another stylist at The Flow Salon in Wyckoff, New Jersey— where both pups now hold full-time positions as unofficial maître d’s.
“After becoming a stylist at The Flow Salon, I ended up falling in love with Winslow and decided to get a Mi-Ki of my own,” Buzz’s owner says. “He’s changed my life in the best ways possible.”
Mi-Kis, while still a relatively rare breed, are gaining a loyal following thanks to their hypoallergenic coats, quiet temperaments and cat-like charm. Recognized by the United Kennel Club, they’re ideal therapy dogs—and clearly, natural-born cover models.
Winslow came into his owner’s life during a difficult time, when the idea of a companion animal was suggested. “I was considering a cat because of my schedule, but a salon guest told me to look into Mi-Kis,” she explains. “That advice changed my life. Now, Winslow isn’t just my companion—he’s a huge part of the salon experience.”
SIR WINSLOW
Buzz
Together, Winslow and Buzz bring joy and warmth to the workplace—and to each other.
“Buzz’s favorite thing to do is go to work and play with BFF Winslow,” his owner shares. While Winslow can usually be found perched on a lap or nestled between the shampoo chair and a guest, Buzz—still very much a puppy—is all about movement. He’s happiest running across open fields or chasing seagulls on beach day, bringing a joyful energy wherever he goes.
Around town, the pups are regulars at Horizon Nails, where their absence is noticed immediately. Their VIP sessions with Grace at Vanity Fur are fan favorites. But their favorite part of the day? Sneaking away from the ladies to hang with the guys at DeFino Realtors.
Winslow is a seasoned traveler, having flown and road-tripped up and down the East Coast—from Florida to Maine, with plenty of stops in between. Buzz, still new to the scene, is loving the ride. His recent beach trip, chasing birds and soaking in the salty air, stands as an early favorite memory with his owner.
“Be loving, stay soft, and always stop to say hi to the dog— you never know whose day you’re brightening. Be the reason someone smiles today.”
Tony and Adam always break for treats—it’s the ultimate boys’ club moment.
They also share some signature Mi-Ki quirks.
“Both Win and Buzz walk on their hind legs and do little twirls when they’re excited,” their owners say.
“It reminds me of prairie dogs!”
For both families, life with a Mi-Ki has been nothing short of transformative.
“Having a dog is like having a built-in best friend,” notes Buzz’s owner. “Buzz has changed my life in the best ways.”
If these two could send messages to the world, they’d be as thoughtful as they are adorable. Winslow’s would be:
“Be loving, stay soft, and always stop to say hi to the dog—you never know whose day you’re brightening. Be the reason someone smiles today.”
Buzz? A bit more succinct, but just as meaningful: “Stay pawsitive—bark less, wag more.”
With that kind of attitude, it’s no wonder Sir Winslow and Buzz took top honors in the 2025 Ramp Valley Doggy Cover Contest. They’re not just winning over judges—they’re winning over hearts.
