A Little Room to Wander
We are officially in the swing of summer, and I could not be happier about it. I live for this time of year: longer days, later nights, backyard dinners, getaways and all the red, white and blue fun that comes with the Fourth of July. The no-bedtime summer schedule for our girls will probably catch up to me soon, but these lazy evenings feel like a welcome change from the nonstop running of the school year.
This month’s Explore theme is all about that feeling. Exploring does not require a plane ticket or a packed suitcase. Sometimes, it starts with a new conversation, a local day trip, a dream vacation or a summer meal shared outside. In this issue, we’re celebrating the many ways Ramapo Valley residents can explore, unwind and enjoy the season close to home and beyond.
Our cover story on page 22 features a guide to New Jersey’s national parks and historic sites, from Paterson Great Falls to the Delaware Water Gap and Sandy Hook. It is a reminder that adventure, history and natural beauty can be found closer than we sometimes realize.
On page 24, we’re heading farther from home with a look at Princess Cruises’ Star Princess and the modern evolution of cruising. Whether you are dreaming of the Mediterranean, Alaska or the Southern Caribbean, the story explores how today’s cruises are becoming more personalized, comfortable and destination-focused.
You’ll also find a story about Bergen County residents Lisa Halperin and Michelle Freedberg, on page 12, whose new podcast explores life’s next chapter for women in midlife. Through honest conversations about identity, purpose, parenting, wellness and what comes next, they are creating space for women to feel seen, encouraged and a little less alone.
And because no July issue feels complete without something for the grill, we’re sharing a homemade barbecue sauce recipe on page 20 that is easy to customize and perfect for summer cooking. Whether you are planning a backyard barbecue, a casual family dinner or need a little something extra for whatever is coming off the grill, this one is worth saving.
Whether your July plans include fireworks, a road trip, a backyard barbecue, a walk through a local park or simply trying something new, we hope this issue gives you a little inspiration. Here’s to exploring more, slowing down when we can and enjoying the season right where we are.
TIFFANY & JAKE SLOWINSKI , PUBLISHERS @RAMAPOVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Brooke Boyer | brooke.boyer@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Rose Balisi | rose.balisi@citylifestyle.com
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Riley Burns | riley.burns@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Richard Chachowski, Carly Mac Manus, Hilary Russo, David Burke
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Princess Cruises, David Renna, David Surks, Shots by Daedrie, Captured NJ, Hilary Russo
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
JULY 2026
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Immaculate Heart Academy announced Q3 National Honor Society awards recognizing four seniors for scholarship, leadership, service, character. 2: Immaculate Heart Academy students earned top honors on the 2026 National Latin Exam, competing internationally. 3: Congratulations to Indian Hills Boys Golf on capturing its first-ever sectional championship in program history. 4: Ramapo College student Kyree RobinsonBanks is headed to Seton Hall Law School through the LEO program. 5: NJ Decks shared a heartfelt Mother’s Day reflection on four generations of family. 6-7: Immaculate Heart Academy’s Class of 2026 celebrated senior prom at The Legacy Castle.
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IMMACULATE HEART ACADEMY
IMMACULATE HEART ACADEMY
RAMAPO INDIAN HILLS
RAMAPO COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY
NJ DECKS AND OUTDOOR LIVING
HEART ACADEMY
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Education Through Music CEO Janice Weinman Leads Equity Efforts
Dr. Janice Weinman, CEO of Education Through Music, brings decades of leadership in nonprofit management, government service and global philanthropy to her role advancing educational equity. A Harvard-educated executive and Juilliard-trained pianist, she has led international organizations and served in federal government roles. Weinman’s work focuses on scaling music education programs that support underserved students, emphasizing long-term impact, disciplined leadership and expanded access to arts education.
RCC and Ramapo College Partner on Bachelor’s Completion Program
Rockland Community College and Ramapo College of New Jersey partnered to expand a bachelor’s degree completion pathway for students, strengthening transfer opportunities between the institutions. The agreement builds on an existing relationship with Rockland Community College and is designed to streamline academic progression for community college graduates. The collaboration supports increased access to four-year degrees through coordinated advising, credit transfer alignment and program planning across both campuses.
Ramapo College Partners with Devils, Prudential Center
Ramapo College of New Jersey announced a partnership with the New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center to expand experiential learning opportunities for students. The collaboration connects academics with professional sports and entertainment operations, offering hands-on experience designed to support career development in sports management, marketing and related fields. Officials said the program aims to strengthen pathways between classroom learning and industry practice through direct engagement with the Devils organization and venue operations.
Photography by NB Communications
Photography by Rockland Community College
Photography by Ramapo College of New Jersey
Exploring What Comes Next
BERGEN COUNTY WOMEN LAUNCH PODCAST TO NAVIGATE LIFE’S NEXT CHAPTER
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID RENNA
For many women, the years after raising children can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. The routines that once filled every hour begin to shift, leaving space for new questions: What comes next? Who am I beyond the role of parent?
For Bergen County residents Lisa Halperin and Michelle Freedberg, that question became the inspiration behind a new podcast exploring life’s next chapter for women in midlife. What began as a casual conversation quickly evolved into a creative project that is resonating with listeners both locally and beyond.
Halperin, a mother of four who lives in Upper Saddle River, spent years working as a lawyer before transitioning into interior design. Freedberg, a therapist who has also lived in Upper Saddle River for more than two decades, balances her professional work with raising two children.
Like many women their age, they found themselves entering a new phase of life as their children grew older.
“There’s this strange moment when you realize the schedule that consumed your life for 20 years suddenly changes,” Halperin says. “You’re not driving kids everywhere or constantly managing activities anymore. You start to wonder what this next stage looks like.”
Instead of viewing the transition as an ending, the two friends decided to explore it as a beginning.
A PODCAST BORN FROM CURIOSITY
The idea for the podcast came together quickly. After discussing the concept in early December, Halperin and Freedberg launched their first episode in early January. Within just a few months, they had already recorded a dozen episodes while learning the technical side of podcast production along the way.
“We had no idea what we were doing,” Freedberg says with a laugh. “We had to figure out audio, video, social media, all of it.”
Their home studio began modestly in a living room before moving into a basement setup they continue to refine.
Despite the learning curve, the pair has embraced the process. They spend several hours each day researching topics, planning episodes and recording conversations aimed at helping women better understand this stage of life.
The podcast explores everything from aging and wellness to relationships, hobbies and personal growth.
“We want women to feel like they’re not alone in this phase,” Halperin says. “There’s a lot happening during these years, and it isn’t talked about enough.”
A GENERATION REDEFINING MIDLIFE
Halperin believes women today are redefining what midlife looks like compared with previous generations.
“Our mothers might have been entering a retirement phase at this age,” she says. “But our generation still has a lot of living to do.”
Instead of slowing down, many women are starting businesses, launching creative projects or rediscovering passions that were put aside during the busy years of parenting.
Halperin and Freedberg see their podcast as both a personal journey and an invitation for other women to explore new possibilities.
“You’re never too old to try something new,” Halperin says. “We’re proof of that.”
Their goal is not only to share insights but also to spark ideas for listeners looking to enrich their own lives.
CONNECTING WITH COMMUNITY
While the podcast aims to reach a broader audience, its roots remain firmly planted in Bergen County.
The duo often collaborates with local businesses and organizations while recording episodes. Past topics have taken them to a med spa to discuss anti-aging treatments, a knitting studio in Waldwick and even an assisted living community to explore aging and lifestyle transitions.
“There’s this strange moment when you realize the schedule that consumed your life for 20 years suddenly changes.” —Lisa Halperin
“We want women to feel like they’re not alone in this phase, there’s a lot happening during these years, and it isn’t talked about enough.”
—Lisa Halperin
By partnering with local establishments, they are able to highlight small businesses while creating conversations that resonate with listeners everywhere.
“Even though we’re based in Bergen County, the topics we discuss are universal,” Halperin says. “The experiences we’re talking about apply to women everywhere.”
EXPLORING THE FUTURE
Although the podcast launched only recently, its creators already see potential for growth.
Initially, the plan was simple: produce one episode each week for a full year and see where it led. But early feedback from listeners has encouraged them to think bigger.
“We thought if three people listened, that would be great,” Halperin says. “But now people we don’t even know are reaching out and saying an episode really resonated with them.”
Those connections have reinforced their original mission: helping women navigate the complexities of midlife with curiosity and optimism.
For Halperin and Freedberg, the project has become more than a podcast. It is an exploration of identity, purpose and possibility.
And in many ways, it reflects the message they hope to share with others: the next chapter of life can be just as exciting as the ones that came before.
“There’s a whole phase of life before retirement,” Halperin says. “And we want to explore it.”
To check out their latest episodes, visit @beforeboca on YouTube.
MIDLIFE, REIMAGINED: From wellness and relationships to hobbies and reinvention, Lisa Halperin and Michelle Freedberg’s podcast encourages women to embrace midlife as a beginning and remember that it’s not an ending.
JERSEY Joe
HOW A MONTCLAIR STATE STUDENT TURNED DANCE VIDEOS INTO A VIRAL BRAND
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHOTS BY DAEDRIE, CAPTURED NJ
When Joe Lepinski first propped up his phone in his Montclair State University dorm room in 2021, he had no idea he was laying the foundation for a social media career that would reach millions.
At the time, the world was still navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Campus life had slowed, activities were limited, and students were spending more time alone in their rooms.
For Lepinski, that quiet became an opening.
“I would go to class, come back to my dorm and there was really nothing going on,” he says. “So I just propped up my phone and started filming.”
What began as a way to pass time quickly turned into something much bigger.
Today, the Woodbridge native—known online as Jersey Joe—has built a following of more than 7.2 million on TikTok and 1.2 million on Instagram. His upbeat dance videos and high-energy presence have made him one of New Jersey’s most recognizable social media creators.
Joe’s love for dance started long before social media.
Growing up in New Jersey, he spent Friday nights at roller rinks and danced at home while his mother cooked dinner.
“I’ve loved dancing since I was about four years old,” he says.
That early passion became the backbone of his content. When he joined TikTok, Joe focused almost entirely on dance videos, posting consistently to build momentum.
“Consistency is key,” he says. “The more you post, the more people will see you.”
At first, growth was slow. He hovered around 36,000 followers for months before one video changed everything.
“My views just kept going up from there,” he says.
A major part of Joe’s identity is his connection to New Jersey culture. His content is influenced by Jersey Club, a fast-paced music and dance style that originated in Newark and defines the region’s creative scene.
“That style of dance really helped bring me to where I am today,” Joe says. “When you hear a Jersey Club remix, you can’t help but move.”
Even his online name reflects that identity, blending his nickname with his home state and culture.
As his platform grew, so did his opportunities.
Joe has collaborated with major creators and brands, including working with YouTube creator MrBeast.
“That was pretty cool,” he says.
He has also partnered with teams including the New York Giants, Knicks, Rangers and New Jersey Devils, bringing his dance content into the sports world. He continues to work with businesses across New Jersey on promotional content.
The experience sharpened his performance skills, even if the costume came with challenges.
“It was a lot of fun, but it was definitely hot,” he adds with a laugh.
Despite his fame, Joe says his mission remains simple: positivity.
“I love entertaining people,” he says. “If someone’s having a bad day and sees my video, I want it to make them smile.”
That mindset shapes his content, focusing on uplifting energy rather than negativity.
Joe also emphasizes authenticity.
“You can’t worry about what people think,” he says. “We only live once, so do what makes you happy.”
“I just want to spread positive vibes.”
—Joe Lepinski
Looking ahead, he aims to reach 10 million TikTok followers and dreams of appearing on Dancing With the Stars. He even attended the show’s TikTok Night in Los Angeles.
“It was crazy to be there,” he says. “That would definitely be a dream.”
Before social media, Joe was already a performer. At Montclair State University, he spent more than two years as Rocky the Red Hawk, the school’s mascot.
The role required energy, creativity and crowd engagement.
“I loved interacting with the audience at games,” he says.
For now, he continues creating daily and growing his audience from a dorm-room idea into a global platform.
“I just want to spread positive vibes,” he says.
Follow Jersey Joe: TikTok: @jerseyyjoe Instagram: @jerseyyjoe
FROM CAROLINA TANG TO KANSAS CITY SWEET, EXPLORE AMERICA’S SAUCY BARBECUE STAPLE.
A BARBECUE SAUCE SUMMER
RECIPE BY CHEF DAVID BURKE
We’re well into grilling season, which makes this the perfect time to talk about barbecue sauce. Chef David Burke shares his go-to barbecue sauce recipe.
Barbecue sauce is one of those kitchen staples that can be deeply regional, highly personal and endlessly adaptable. Some versions are thin and tangy, others are sweet and glossy, and a few are creamy, peppery or boldly spiced. What they all have in common is the ability to add flavor and personality to summer cooking.
BARBECUE SAUCE
Early American barbecue sauces were simple mixtures of vinegar, salt, pepper and sometimes mustard. These thinner, tangier sauces were especially common in the Carolinas, where they helped cut through the richness of pork. Over time, as tomatoes, molasses and sugar became more available, barbecue sauce evolved into many regional styles.
For many people, the most familiar version is Kansas City style: tomato-based, sweet, glossy and made to cling to ribs, chicken and anything else coming off the grill.
The best part is that barbecue sauce is easy to make your own. Start
About Chef David Burke
with this classic base, then adjust the flavor with ginger, soy sauce, mustard, orange juice, coffee, citrus zest, cumin, horseradish, capers, pickle juice or even tea.
Barbecue sauce can also do more than finish grilled meats. Stir it into mayonnaise for pasta or potato salad, mix it with ranch for a quick dip, or fold it into mac and cheese.
Ingredients
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
New Jersey-born chef and restaurateur David Burke is known for playful, precision-driven American cooking and elevated comfort classics. His restaurants span New Jersey and beyond, bringing his signature creativity and hospitality to dining destinations across the state.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Directions
1. Simmer all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning.
For more recipes, follow @chefdavidburke.
Park it!
Discover waterfalls, coastlines, and hidden history throughout New Jersey’s remarkable national parks
New Jersey may be best known for its shorelines, bustling highways and proximity to New York City, but tucked between its urban centers are remarkable national parks and historic sites that offer travelers an escape without ever leaving the Garden State. From roaring waterfalls to preserved wilderness, these destinations reveal a different side of New Jersey, one rooted in natural beauty and American history.
At the heart of this experience is Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, one of the most dramatic and historically significant landmarks in the Northeast. Often called the “hidden Niagara” of New Jersey, the 77-foot waterfall on the Passaic River helped power America’s early industrial revolution and remains one of the state’s most impressive sights.
Established as a National Historical Park in 2011, Paterson Great Falls sits in the city founded by Alexander Hamilton in 1792. Hamilton envisioned Paterson as the nation’s first planned industrial city, using the force of the falls to drive textile mills and manufacturing plants. The area became a center for silk production, earning Paterson the nickname “Silk City.” Today, visitors can still see remnants of the raceways and factories that once fueled the city’s economy.
What makes the park especially compelling is the contrast between nature and industry. The thunderous waterfall crashes through rugged basalt cliffs while historic brick
buildings rise nearby, creating a landscape unlike any other in the country. Observation decks provide panoramic views of the falls, and guided walking tours explore the engineering and immigrant stories tied to the city’s rise.
Visitors can spend an afternoon photographing the falls, exploring nearby museums, or enjoying local downtown restaurants. Seasonal ranger programs and cultural events also bring the park to life throughout the year. Paterson Great Falls is a must-see. Especially since it’s close to home, and promises to be a destination full of scenery, history, and accessibility, Proof that extraordinary places can exist right in one’s backyard.
Got a little more time to explore the Garden State? Beyond Paterson, New Jersey is home to several other national park sites worth exploring.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
HILARY RUSSO
One standout is Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a sprawling outdoor destination stretching along the Delaware River. This is a haven for hikers, kayakers, anglers and campers. The Appalachian Trail cuts through the region, offering scenic overlooks and forested mountain paths.
The Delaware Water Gap is especially popular during autumn, when the surrounding hills erupt in shades of red, orange, and gold. Visitors can paddle the river, hike to waterfalls, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Wildlife is abundant, and the area’s quiet trails provide a refreshing break from city noise and crowded beaches.
Another remarkable destination is Gateway National Recreation Area, which protects miles of coastline and historic military sites along the Atlantic Ocean. Located at the northern tip of the Jersey Shore, Sandy Hook offers beaches, biking paths, birdwatching and sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline.
The area is also rich in history. Visitors can tour Fort Hancock, a former U.S. Army base dating back to the late 1800s, or climb the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States.
Together, these national parks and recreation areas showcase New Jersey’s diversity. Paterson Great Falls highlights the power of industry and innovation, Delaware Water Gap offers wilderness and adventure, and Gateway National Recreation Area delivers coastal beauty and history.
For residents and visitors alike, New Jersey’s national parks prove that unforgettable escapes do not always require a plane ticket or a cross-country road trip. Sometimes, the most rewarding adventures are waiting just down the road. To explore more of New Jersey’s national and state parks, visit visitnj.org
ARTICLE BY RICHARD CHACHOWSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY
sailing into modern luxury travel
Embark on the Ultimate Adventure Aboard
Princess Cruises’ Star Princess
If there were ever a modern golden age for cruising, it may very well be now. Ocean travel has surged in popularity, with major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Viking and Carnival dominating television commercials and digital advertising. But beyond the industry’s largest names, Princess Cruises has quietly positioned itself as a compelling option for travelers seeking a more refined and balanced experience at sea.
Ranked as the seventh largest cruise line in the world, Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, each designed to blend comfort, entertainment and destination-focused travel. Much of the recent attention surrounding the company has centered on its newest Sphere-class vessels: the Sun Princess and the Star Princess.
The Sun Princess debuted in 2024 as the largest ship in the company’s history, while the Star Princess completed its maiden voyage in October 2025. Together, the ships represent a new era for the brand, combining modern design with Princess Cruises’ signature approach to relaxed luxury.
Unlike some cruise lines that emphasize large-scale attractions and nonstop stimulation, Princess takes a more understated approach. The Star Princess focuses less on spectacle and more on creating a seamless travel experience built around comfort, dining and exploration.
PRINCESS CRUISES
The ship sails to destinations including the Mediterranean, Southern Caribbean and Alaska, giving guests access to a wide variety of cultural and scenic experiences. Onboard, thoughtful design upgrades such as improved navigation systems, efficient elevator layouts and spacious public areas help create a more relaxed atmosphere for travelers.
Dining remains one of the ship’s standout features. Guests can choose from included venues such as The Eatery buffet and the Americana Diner, or explore specialty restaurants designed to elevate the onboard culinary experience. Options include Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, Makoto Ocean for sushi, The Catch by Rudi for seafood and Umai Teppanyaki for interactive Japanese dining.
The ship also introduces more creative concepts, including Love by Britto, which combines art and dining into an immersive experience, and The Butcher’s Block by Dario, a modern steakhouse focused on premium cuts and elevated presentation.
Beyond dining, the Star Princess offers a full schedule of entertainment and wellness experiences. Guests can attend theatrical productions and live performances inside the Princess Arena or participate in trivia nights, game shows and other family-friendly activities throughout the ship.
Today’s cruising is less about constant stimulation and more about meaningful, memorable travel.
The Lotus Spa serves as the vessel’s wellness retreat, offering saunas, steam rooms, hydrotherapy pools, facials, massages and relaxation spaces designed to help guests unwind during their voyage.
Princess Cruises also emphasizes destination immersion through curated shore excursions available directly through the cruise line’s mobile app. Guests can personalize their experience with guided tours, snorkeling adventures, catamaran cruises or cultural excursions at each port of call.
Ultimately, the Star Princess reflects the broader evolution of modern cruising: a shift toward personalization, comfort and thoughtfully curated travel experiences. Whether traveling for a romantic getaway, family vacation or milestone celebration, guests are offered an opportunity to experience both the journey and the destinations in a more meaningful and memorable way.
Chart your next journey and explore upcoming itineraries at princess.com
HONORING 250 YEARS OF THE AMERICAN SPIRIT
PRINCETON BATTLEFIELD BRINGS REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY TO LIFE
This July, as the nation marks 250 years since the founding of the United States, New Jersey stands at the heart of the celebration. Few places capture the determination and turning points of America’s fight for independence like Princeton Battlefield, where George Washington secured a decisive, morale-boosting victory in the Revolutionary War.
To honor this milestone anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield Society continues its mission to preserve, educate and bring history to life—inviting visitors to walk the same fields where the fate of a nation once hung in the balance.
A BATTLE THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID SURKS
On the frigid morning of January 3, 1777, Washington led Continental troops across the fields of Princeton in a bold assault that surprised British forces and altered the momentum of the war. The victory helped solidify confidence in the Continental Army and set the stage for the long road toward independence.
Today, those pivotal hours are remembered each year during the Battlefield Society’s “Experience the Battle of Princeton” event, a living history reenactment that draws spectators, scholars and families from across the region. This year’s reenactment—captured in our photos throughout these pages—brought the past into vivid focus, with soldiers marching across the frost-covered ground, muskets firing through the morning air and costumed interpreters sharing stories of courage and resilience.
KEEPING HISTORY ALIVE
Princeton Battlefield Society works to keep the lessons of the Revolution accessible to all. Through educational programming, public commemorations, living-history events and guided tours, the organization offers opportunities to experience America’s founding story in meaningful and immersive ways.
“Our events are designed to educate, inspire and engage all audiences,” the Society notes. “From families and students to lifelong history lovers, we want every visitor to feel connected to the stories that unfolded here.”
AMONG THE SOCIETY’S SIGNATURE ANNUAL PROGRAMS:
Experience the Battle of Princeton (January) The premier reenactment event, featuring live battle demonstrations, ceremonial tributes and talks led by historians.
Mercer Oak Award Ceremony (Spring) A celebration honoring individuals who have made notable contributions to historic preservation and public history.
Fall Clean-Up Day (October) A community volunteer day dedicated to maintaining and protecting the battlefield landscape.
Cadwalader Lecture Series (Ongoing) In-depth presentations from scholars and authors exploring strategy, leadership and the “Ten Crucial Days” that shaped the Revolution.
LOOKING TOWARD THE SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL
The countdown is underway for the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Princeton, approaching in early 2027. As anticipation builds nationwide for America’s semiquincentennial, the Battlefield Society is preparing expanded programming, interpretation, volunteer opportunities and commemorative events.
Families can look forward to engaging programs such as Young Patriots Day, held each September, offering children the chance to explore 18th-century life through hands-on demonstrations and historical activities.
A LIVING LEGACY
Standing on Princeton Battlefield today, surrounded by meadows and centuries-old trees, it’s easy to see why historians consider it one of the nation’s most significant military sites. The courage shown here helped secure independence, and ongoing preservation by Princeton Battlefield Society ensures it is never forgotten.
As we celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, the Princeton Battlefield remains more than a historic site—it is a reminder of the ideals that shaped a new nation: resilience, unity and the belief in a future worth fighting for.
Learn more about the Princeton Battlefield Society at pbs1777.org
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.
Register at ihanj.com to be a Blue Eagle for the Day and find out why our extensive curriculum, artistic offerings, athletic teams, and Christian service programs are second to none.
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Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community.
Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
Birdwatching Made Simple
EXPERT TIPS TO MAKE BACKYARD BIRDING A FASCINATING AND PEACEFUL PART OF YOUR LIFE.
ARTICLE BY MARSHALL ZWEIG
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Thinking of putting up a bird feeder? You’re not alone. Backyard birding is the second most popular hobby in the U.S.—right behind gardening. Bob Gors of Wild Birds Unlimited in Macomb, MI, shares expert tips to help you get started—and get results.
START WITH THE RIGHT SETUP
If you’re new to bird feeding, don’t overcomplicate it. Bob recommends starting with a tray feeder, either pole-mounted or hung. “It’s accessible to the widest range of birds,” he says, “and it lets you experiment with different seed blends.”
Before setting up, take a look at your yard. Birds prefer to feed near trees or shrubs where they can perch and scan for predators. “If your yard is wide open, it’s going to be harder to attract them,” Bob notes.
Quick Tip: Place your feeder about 15 feet from trees or shrubs to give birds a safe place to wait their turn.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SEED—AND SKIP THE FILLERS
Not all bird seed is created equal. Bob advises avoiding blends with fillers like milo, wheat, or oats. “Those are agricultural leftovers. Most birds won’t eat them.”
Each Wild Birds Unlimited store owner customizes their seed blends, based on the birds in each store’s specific area. Their blends contain no fillers—just high-quality ingredients birds actually eat. They’re available in no-mess varieties—no shells, no waste. “With standard seed, up to 40% of the weight of the bag is shells,” Bob says. “No-mess is 100 percent pure bird food.”
Quick Tip: Choose fresh, unscented, unflavored seed. Birds don’t need additives—just what they’d eat in nature. Check the ingredients on the bag: sunflower should be the first ingredient—since it’s the seed most birds love.
KEEP UNWANTED GUESTS AWAY
Squirrels causing trouble? Try safflower seed. “It tastes bitter to squirrels but attracts cardinals, grosbeaks, titmice, nuthatches and chickadees,” Bob says. Hot pepper blends also work—birds can’t taste the heat, but mammals can.
To deter large birds like starlings, Bob recommends using a cage around tube feeders to limit access. Tube feeders with small perches help discourage bigger birds. For tidier feeding, seed cylinders—compressed seed—are a great low-mess option.
Quick Tip: “Start simple,” Bob advises. “Watch what’s happening in your yard, then adjust as needed.” Unlike loose seed, cylinders make the birds work harder—and give you longer-lasting views of the birds.
SPOT BIRD BEHAVIOR (AND BACKYARD DRAMA)
Once your feeder’s up, the show begins.
“Different species act differently,” Bob explains. “Cardinals are typically the first and last birds of the day to the feeder. Male hummingbirds are very territorial and will defend ‘their’ feeder. Chickadees come to the feeder in a flash; they have a grab-and-go strategy. “In our backyard, orioles and bluebirds battle over live mealworms,” he adds. “The female bluebird often holds her ground.”
Quick Tip: You don’t need to track every species. “Just sit back with a cup of coffee and watch,” Bob says. “You’ll start noticing more than you’d expect.”
SEASONAL CHANGES TO EXPECT
Feeder activity increases in summer, thanks to fledglings. “By July, your bird population has basically doubled,” Bob says. At the same time, some favorites—like male orioles—start their fall migration as early as July.
One common myth? That goldfinches leave in winter. “They stay put,” Bob says. “But the males molt into drab-colored feathers, so people often don’t recognize them.”
Quick Tip: Keep feeding in winter. “Some of the best bird watching happens in the colder months—different species of birds visit us in the winter.”
HOW TO ATTRACT SPECIFIC BIRDS
Want cardinals? Use tray feeders or tube feeders with U-shaped perches. “They’re heavier birds,” Bob says. “Standard tube feeders are hard for them to use.”
Hoping for bluebirds? They prefer park-like settings. If your yard fits, try a nesting box with a 1.5-inch entrance, and offer live mealworms far away from the nest box.
Hummingbirds? Stick to sugar water—no red dye needed. “And expect a show,” Bob adds. “Males are fiercely territorial at the feeder.”
Wild Birds Unlimited carries feeders tailored to specific birds, but Bob and his team focus on fit. “We ask about your yard, your goals, and guide you from there.”
Quick Tip: Not sure what birds are in your area? Ask your local Wild Birds Unlimited shop.
WHY BIRD WATCHING STICKS
Bob says many customers started birding during the pandemic—and never stopped. “They looked out the window and realized something was there,” he says. It’s remained part of their lives: one couple told Bob they still start every morning on the porch with coffee and birdsong. “It became a ritual that many people now cherish,” Bob says.
For expert help making bird watching your ritual, stop by Wild Birds Unlimited in your area or visit wbu.com.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 4TH
Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration
Veterans Field, N. Maple Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07450 | 9:00 AM
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at Ridgewood’s “USA 250 — America's Birthday Bash.” The tradition begins with a 9 a.m. flag-raising at Wilsey Square and a 10 a.m. downtown parade. The festivities conclude at Veterans Field starting at 6 p.m. with live entertainment, a beer garden, food trucks and a spectacular fireworks display. Visit ridgewoodjuly4th.com to learn more.
JULY 5TH
Summer Sundays at Lorrimer Sanctuary
Lorrimer Sanctuary, 790 Ewing Ave., Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 | 10:30 AM
Enjoy a relaxed, nature-focused summer series hosted by New Jersey Audubon featuring guided walks, wildlife education and family-friendly outdoor programming in a forested preserve. Visitors can explore trails and learn about local ecology through seasonal interpretive activities. Learn more at njaudubon.org/event
JULY 12TH
Fresh Roots Farm Volunteer Day
Mahwah Environmental Volunteers Organization, Inc. (MEVO), 200 Campgaw Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430 | 9:30 AM
Get your hands in the dirt at Fresh Roots Farm. Join MEVO for a rewarding Sunday volunteering session in the Ramapo Valley. Support local agriculture while connecting with environmentally conscious neighbors. Wear clothes you can get dirty. Preregistration and an annual online liability waiver are required via mevo.org
JULY 23RD
The Nerds
Ramapo College Bandshell, 505 Ramapo Valley Rd., Mahwah, NJ 07430 | 7:00 PM
The Nerds, a New Jersey-based rock cover band formed in 1985, bring their high-energy summer concert to Ramapo College. Known for their trademark “geek” stage look and wide-ranging setlist spanning classic rock, R&B, pop and punk, the band delivers a crowd-focused outdoor performance as part of the campus summer series. View event details at ramapo.edu/summer-concert
JULY 25TH
Victory Fighting League: Havoc on the Hudson
American Dream, 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 | 7:00 PM
Experience high-octane martial arts at the Victory Fighting League's "Havoc on the Hudson." Held at The Rink at The Arena, this premier professional and amateur mixed martial arts showcase makes history as American Dream's first live MMA event. Visit americandream.com to learn more.
JULY 30TH
Brian Kirk & The Jirks
Ramapo College Bandshell, 505 Ramapo Valley Rd., Mahwah, NJ 07430 | 7:00 PM
Brian Kirk & The Jirks, a Red Bank-based party band with deep roots in the Jersey Shore music scene, deliver a high-energy performance with an eclectic repertoire spanning classic standards to contemporary hits. The group is a longtime staple of regional live entertainment, offering a polished, crowd-focused outdoor concert experience as part of the Ramapo Summer Series. Sign up at ramapo.edu/summer-concert .
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