INSIDE: EXCLUSIVE TIPS FROM THE KORN FERRY TOUR PRO TO ELEVATE YOUR GAME.
To the Dads, Mentors & MakersHappy Father’s Day!
Dear Ramapo Valley Readers,
June is here, and with it comes sunshine, sizzle on the grill, and a well-deserved moment to celebrate the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who keep life interesting (and the lawn looking great). Our June issue is all about celebrating the men who show up—at home, at work, in the community—and do it all with a mix of grit, humor, and heart.
My dad raised two girls—me and my sister—and somehow made it look easy. Whether it was hauling us to activities, fixing whatever we broke, or offering a steady stream of dad jokes (some better than others), he’s the kind of guy who makes everything feel possible. This issue is for him, and for all the father figures who lead by example, in big ways and small ones.
We’ve lined up some great reads this month that capture the energy of the season and the spirit of the men we’re celebrating. On page 16 Building Dreams introduces us to a local contractor who’s doing more than home renovations—he’s building better lives, one project at a time.
Looking for a birthday party idea bound to wow your kid? Flip to page 40 for our review of The Kartrite, a resort that brings the fun for kids and adults alike. Trust us, the water slides are no joke.
The Real Deal with Chopper Russo on page 30 dives into what’s really happening in real estate right now—no fluff, just smart insights from one of the best in the biz.
Check in on page 10 with Ryan McCormick, a pro golfer fighting his way back to the PGA Tour with focus, fire, and a lot of heart.
My Super Bowl Experience on Page 22 brings some big-league fun as I experienced the football trip of a lifetime — with a little help from fate and fast packing.
And finally, don’t miss Gratitude to Our Partners on page 28—a heartfelt thank-you to the local businesses and supporters who help make this publication possible.
Happy Father’s Day to the dads, stepdads, grandfathers, uncles, and mentors out there—and especially to the girl dads. You’re in good company. Our Publisher, Jake Slowinski, is a a girl dad to four daughters that keep him on his toes.
Cheers!
CARLY MAC MANUS, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @RAMAPOVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Mike Duffy | mike.duffy@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Kristin Kowalewski
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Brenna Auguste
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Patti Zielinski, Bernie Augustine, Chloe Anderson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Media X Marketing, Franklin Lakes Fire Department, The PGA Tour, Ryan McCormick, New Jersey Golf, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group, Chopper Russo
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Proverbs 3:5-6
inside the issue
RYAN MCCORMICK: Grinding Toward His PGA
Tour Return
How a Golf “Nerd” from Monmouth County is Grinding to Reach the Next Level
ARTICLE BY BERNIE AUGUSTINE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE PGA TOUR, RYAN MCCORMICK, NEW JERSEY GOLF
Ryan McCormick
In some ways, Ryan McCormick is far from his days playing the courses of Monmouth County. In other ways, it's still very much the same—grinding and fine-tuning his game to reach the next level.
"There's a reason why golf attracts so many different types of people," McCormick says of the sport's perpetual challenge. "It attracts the most accomplished athletes and business leaders, all the way down to people who are just obsessed with the game. It's what's great about the game; it's not discriminatory."
McCormick places himself in that "obsessed" category. "I've been a golf nerd and golf nut my whole life," said McCormick, a pro on the Korn Ferry Tour. He played 27 events on the PGA Tour in 2024 and is working to get back there.
"When the Korn Ferry Tour comes to town, we may not be the biggest event in town," McCormick shares with a knowing tone about life on golf's minor league, which takes him from Buenos Aires to Boise and beyond.
Born in West Long Branch, McCormick grew up in Middletown and began focusing on golf at Mater Dei High School before moving on to a decorated collegiate career at St. John's. He turned pro and earned his PGA Tour card in 2023 after finishing in the top 30 on the Korn Ferry Tour. McCormick didn’t stick on the PGA Tour and is back playing Korn Ferry events this year with eyes on a return. "Incredible," was McCormick's one-word summation of the difficulty of the PGA Tour.
Though he didn’t remain on the PGA Tour, the experience was invaluable. McCormick played in events he dreamed of while watching on TV with his dad, including the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in San Diego. "That was really awesome," McCormick notes. "It was just an unbelievable place."
Whether you're trying to break 100, make your high school team, or set a course record—McCormick has tips for anyone grinding it out on their local muni course. He even set a course record at Charleston Springs in Millstone with a 59. "It was a great experience. That one's my favorite," McCormick says of the achievement.
Max Greyserman, Ryan McCormick and Chris Gotterup PGA Championship
“It attracts the most accomplished athletes and business leaders, all the way down to people who are just obsessed with the game . It’s what’s great about the game; it’s not discriminatory.”
—Ryan McCormick
McCormick shared a few tips for golfers of all levels:
LEANING INTO ATHLETICISM
"If you have an athletic background, use that. Try to feel like when you have a golf club in your hand, you feel the way you do when playing other sports. It's very closely related. If you've played other sports, try to make it as much like that as possible."
HOOKS AND SLICES
"If you see your ball curving to the right, try to make it go the other way," McCormick explains, knowing it sounds easier than it is. "If it's going one way, try to overcorrect and make it go the other way. You want to try to find a middle ground there." Adjusting your stance in the tee box is one way to experiment with that.
INSIDE-OUT GAME
Most golfers want to crush it off the tee, but the reality is that most players can't consistently hit the fairway with a 250-yard drive. To compensate for an errant drive, McCormick recommends focusing on the short game. "The easiest way for someone (who's trying to break 100) to lower their scores is to focus on putting and chipping," McCormick shares, adding that mastering the game from 150 yards and in is a good strategy. "Any time you can get out to the putting green, it's really going to help your scores."
Ryan McCormick - American professional golfer
Stats: pgatour.com/player/46113/ryan-mccormick
Instagram: @mccormick__ryan
Ryan McCormick
WHISKEY SOUR WITH A TWIST
Looking to celebrate Father’s Day with a special drink? This Whiskey Sour with a Twist is a perfect balance of smooth bourbon, zesty lemon, and just the right amount of sweetness—plus, a frothy touch for that extra flair. Whether you’re toasting with dad or enjoying a quiet moment, this cocktail is sure to add some extra joy to your celebration!
ingredients:
• 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (or more to taste)
• 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
• Ice
• Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish
The Perfect Father’s Day Cocktail
directions:
Step 1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using).
Step 2. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds without ice (this is called a "dry shake" and helps create froth if you're using egg white).
Step 3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for 10–15 seconds to chill.
Step 4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Step 5. Garnish with a lemon twist or a cherry for that extra touch of elegance. Enjoy! This cocktail has a nice balance of sweet, sour, and a little bite from the whiskey—perfect for Father’s Day celebrations!
ARTICLE BY CHLOE ANDERSON
BUILDING DREAMS
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group: A Family Affair Built on Craftsmanship and Care
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAGNOLIA HOME
REMODELING GROUP
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group (MHRG) has established itself as a leading name in New Jersey’s home remodeling industry, thanks to its dedication to quality craftsmanship and a deep sense of family values. Founded in the mid-90s by Vic Fiore and his brother-in-law Chris Fontana, the company has grown organically, relying on a reputation built on hard work, exceptional customer service, and personal connections.
“People come to us with ideas, and we help them bring those ideas to life. We can work with their budget and make sure they get the most out of their investment.”
—Vic Fiore
In a recent interview, Fiore shares insights into the foundation and success of MHRG, touching on its origins, growth, and the special bond that fuels the business.
A FAMILY-ORIENTED BUSINESS
Fontana and Fiore's journey into home remodeling began shortly after they graduated from college. Fiore, a graduate of Rutgers University, and Fontana, who studied at York College of Pennsylvania, decided to team up in what turned out to be a perfect business partnership. Their shared background in construction—with Fontana's father working as a construction supervisor at Con Edison and Fiore's family involved in various trades like contracting and electrical work— set the stage for their venture into home remodeling.
“We've always been around construction,” Fiore says. “When Chris got engaged to my sister, it just made sense for us to team up and start something together. We’ve been working together ever since.”
BUILDING A REPUTATION THROUGH QUALITY WORK
What started as a small operation in the 90s has evolved into a well-known name in the community. Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is known for its diverse range of services, from interior and exterior remodeling to additions, dormers, kitchens, bathrooms, and more.
“We do pretty much everything—kitchens, bathrooms, basements, roofing, siding, and outdoor living spaces,” Fiore says. “But the key to our success has always been our satisfied customers. A lot of our business comes from referrals and repeat customers. They trust us, and that’s been the biggest driver of our growth.”
Over the years, Magnolia has carefully expanded its services and built a loyal client base. The company’s approach is simple: deliver high-quality work and maintain strong relationships with clients.
A HANDS-ON, FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS
Unlike many companies that claim to be family-owned, Magnolia’s hands-on approach is genuine. Fiore and Fontana are deeply involved in every aspect of the business, overseeing projects, meeting with clients, and ensuring that every detail meets their high standards.
“We’re very hands-on,” Fiore explains. “We run the business, we manage it, and we are on-site regularly. Our team members—even those who aren’t family—feel like family. Everyone’s invested in the success of the business and in making sure our customers are happy.”
This family-oriented atmosphere extends beyond Fiore and Fontana. Other family members, including nieces and wives, are actively involved in the business. “It’s great because we get to grow the business together. And the people who work here—they want to see the business succeed, too. We treat each other like family.”
TAILORED TO CLIENTS’ NEEDS
One of the company’s standout features is its commitment to understanding the unique vision and needs of each client. Fiore notes that MHRG prides itself on working closely with customers to create personalized remodeling plans that align with their goals and budgets.
“We listen to what our clients want,” Fiore says. “People come to us with ideas, and we help them bring those ideas to life. We can work with their budget and make sure they get the most out of their investment.”
SEASONAL CONSIDERATIONS AND PLANNING
With summer approaching, Fiore highlights that some home remodeling projects are better suited for certain times of the year. For example, roofing and siding projects are typically best scheduled in late spring or early summer, as the warmer weather allows for optimal conditions.
“People often get in touch with us in the winter to plan for spring or summer projects,” Fiore says. “That way, when the weather turns, we’re ready to go. Kitchens, bathrooms, and basements are projects we can handle year-round, but for outdoor projects, starting early ensures you can enjoy them all summer long.”
THE MAGNOLIA DIFFERENCE
What sets Magnolia apart from its competitors is its unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail. Fiore emphasizes the company's dedication to using the best materials and working with skilled professionals to deliver exceptional results.
“We invest in better installers, better materials, and more project management,” Fiore explains. “Our goal is to provide our clients with the best possible experience, from
Top: Chris Fontana and Vic Fiore Bottom: The Magnolia Home Remodeling Group Team
“Our goal is to provide our clients with the best possible experience, from start to finish. And it’s all about building relationships — with our customers and with the people we work with.” —Vic Fiore
start to finish. And it’s all about building relationships— with our customers and with the people we work with.”
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
In addition to their work in residential remodeling, Magnolia has also given back to the community by participating in charitable projects. The company has partnered with George to the Rescue, a popular NBC show that helps families in need of home renovations. Magnolia’s involvement in such projects reflects their deep-rooted commitment to making a positive impact.
“We’ve worked on projects for Make-A-Wish and George to the Rescue, helping families who truly need it,” Fiore says. “It’s gratifying to use our skills to give back and make a difference in people’s lives.”
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
As for the future, Fiore and Fontana have no intention of growing too quickly or losing sight of what made their business successful in the first place. While Magnolia continues to expand its services across New Jersey, they
remain focused on maintaining the quality of their work and the relationships they’ve built over the years.
“We want to grow, but we want to do it carefully,” Fiore says. “We want to continue providing a high level of service and ensuring that we’re the right fit for our clients. We don’t want to spread ourselves too thin.”
A LASTING LEGACY
For Magnolia Home Remodeling Group, the future looks bright. As the company continues to grow, their focus on family, quality, and customer satisfaction will remain at the heart of everything they do.
From their humble beginnings to their present-day success, Fiore and Fontana's shared vision for Magnolia is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the importance of family in business. For anyone looking for reliable, top-notch home remodeling services in New Jersey, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is a name that stands out for all the right reasons.
For more information visit magnoliahomeremodeling.com
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEDIA X MARKETING
SUPER BOWL LIX IN NEW ORLEANS
I’ll admit, I’m not the biggest sports fan out there. But there’s one event a year I just can’t miss—and that’s the Super Bowl! It’s not about the game for me; it’s about the energy, the celebrities, the parties, and the chance to be part of one of the biggest events in the world. So when our publisher, Tiffany Slowinski, and I were invited to attend Super Bowl LV in New Orleans, we didn’t hesitate. We packed our bags and hopped on a plane to the Big Easy to experience the festivities firsthand.
A NEW ORLEANS ADVENTURE
Super Bowl LIX took place in the iconic Caesars Superdome, and New Orleans was absolutely electric that week. The city was buzzing with high-energy events, and the Super Bowl seemed to elevate everything. It was also Mardi Gras season, so the festive atmosphere was everywhere. Parades, music, and that signature NOLA charm made it the perfect backdrop for the biggest football event of the year.
INTERVIEWING LEGENDS
Even though I’m not a die-hard sports fan, getting to interview some of football’s most iconic figures was surreal.
We first chatted with Patrick Mahomes, and unless you've been living under a rock, you know he is the quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs. He was as down-to-earth as they come. When we asked about his plans for the offseason, he gave us a glimpse into
his life beyond football. "I’m looking forward to hanging out with my kids, spending quality time with my wife, and doing the normal day-to-day activities that I don’t always get to do during the season," Mahomes said. It was refreshing to hear him talk about the simple pleasures of life after a high-stakes season.
WEB SEARCH RESULTS
Next, we sat down with Andy Reid, the legendary head coach of the Chiefs. Reid’s humility and genuine love for his players were evident. "It’s about the players, their dedication, and their passion," Reid said. "My job is to guide them and help them realize their potential." His leadership style is all about empowering his team.
Of course, we couldn’t leave out the Eagles—my personal favorite. We had the chance to speak with Nick Sirianni, the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, who was just as charismatic as Reid. But the most inspiring interview was with Jalen Hurts, the Eagles’ star quarterback. Hurts spoke with incredible poise, reflecting on his journey to the Super Bowl and how far the Eagles had come since last season. He emphasized the importance of staying grounded and trusting the process, no matter the outcome.
SUPER BOWL WEEK MADNESS
It wasn’t just the interviews that made the week unforgettable. We attended The Super Bowl LIX Media Party, filled with media personalities and networking opportunities. The energy was high and we caught up with familiar faces from the sports and entertainment worlds. We also helped ourselves to unlimited food and drinks. The next morning I may have regretted that last daiquiri refill.
Another major highlight was opening night, an event where players, coaches, and celebrities gather to kick off the festivities. We were there to capture it all, from
red carpet arrivals to the frenzy of media interviews. We were up close and personal and everyone was eager to talk, laugh, and pose for photos.
RADIO ROW AND THE MEDIA FRENZY
During the week, we also spent time at Radio Row, the media hub of Super Bowl Week. This is where athletes, celebrities, and influencers gather to give interviews and share insights. We connected with major media personalities and got a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into covering the world’s biggest sporting event. The energy was contagious, and we felt like we were right in the middle of the action.
SHOPPING AT THE NFL STORE & SNEAK PEEK AT THE NFL EXPERIENCE
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the NFL Store, a pop-up shop packed with exclusive Super Bowl gear. I can never resist a good shopping spree, so I grabbed a Super Bowl LIX sweatshirt (and, of course, some Eagles merch for my dad, who may be the biggest Eagles fan I know). Tiffany was on the hunt for the most blinged out shirt she could find, and the options did not disappoint—perfect keepsakes from the big week!
The real excitement came when we got a sneak peek at the NFL Experience before it opened to the public. This massive interactive fan attraction was filled with games, simulations, and tons of NFL memorabilia. I tried the quarterback challenge (let’s just say, I’m no Mahomes), while Tiffany decided to brush up on her sports trivia and had a blast exploring the NFL’s rich history.
The NFL Experience captured the true spirit of the game, celebrating everything from NFL history to fan engagement. Getting an early look at it was a special treat, and it’s a must-see for anyone heading to the Super Bowl in the future!
THE FINAL COUNTDOWN TO THE BIG GAME
As the week came to a close, we attended the final media day, and the anticipation for Super Bowl Sunday reached a fever pitch. Everyone was talking about predictions, strategies, and, of course, the party that would follow. We also celebrated the legendary Leigh Steinberg (the inspiration for the character of Jerry Maguire). It was clear that the Super Bowl wasn’t just about the game—it was a celebration of everything that makes sports culture so unique.
LOOKING AHEAD: SUPER BOWL LX AT LEVI'S STADIUM
As much as we loved Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, we’re already looking forward to next year’s Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, at Levi's Stadium. If Super Bowl LIX was any indication, we’re in for another unforgettable experience. With the excitement of the game, the media frenzy, and the overall atmosphere, we can’t wait to see what the next Super Bowl has in store. Will we be back? Absolutely!
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the experience, the Super Bowl brings people together in a way few other events can. Tiffany and I may not be the biggest football buffs, but Super Bowl LIX was an adventure we’ll never forget. From interviews with football legends to media parties and everything in between, this trip was everything we could’ve hoped for and more.
Until next year, Super Bowl LX! We’ll be there, ready for more.
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GRATITUDE TO OUR PARTNERS
Thank You to Our Founding Partners for Supporting Ramapo Valley City Lifestyle Magazine
ARTICLE BY MIKE DUFFY
As sales director for Ramapo Valley City Lifestyle, I want to extend a heartfelt thank-you on behalf of our entire team to the founding partners who made this launch possible. Your early support helped turn an ambitious idea into a vibrant publication that now serves the communities of Franklin Lakes, Mahwah, Wyckoff, and Oakland.
To the businesses that believed in us before we had pages to show—thank you. You joined us when Ramapo Valley City Lifestyle was still a concept, and your trust laid the foundation for everything we’re building.
A special thank-you to Maryanne Elsaesser – Compass Realty, our very first partner and proud back cover sponsor. Her early commitment and steadfast encouragement helped bring this magazine to life. We’re also incredibly grateful to The Chopper Russo Team, Infrared Light Sauna Studio, and Magnolia Home Improvement for jumping in with equal enthusiasm and faith in our vision.
To our additional founding advertisers—NJ Decks and Railings, Budget Blinds of Wayne, Mahwah & Kinnelon – Sal Militello, Cenia NY, and Rand Realty – Joe Simone—thank you for joining us on this journey and helping shape the magazine from day one.
We also proudly recognize First Light Home Care – Glen Rock, Events by LN, Branch to Branch, and Jelena D Salon for bringing energy, creativity, and a shared commitment to our growing community.
And as we continue to grow, we’re excited to welcome new partners like Lauren Matina Design, Total Comfort Design, and Piatto Di Pasta, each adding something special to our collective mission of celebrating local excellence.
Our founding partners are the reason this magazine exists. Your support helps us showcase what makes the Ramapo Valley so unique, and we look forward to growing together in the months ahead.
Thank you for believing in us—before the first issue even hit a mailbox.
Warmly,
Mike Duffy and The Ramapo Valley City Lifestyle Team
THE REAL DEAL WITH Chopper Russo
HOW A JERSEY-BORN EXPERT TURNED A LIFETIME OF EXPERIENCE INTO ONE OF THE STATE’S TOP-PERFORMING REAL ESTATE TEAMS
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHOPPER RUSSO
Chopper Russo and his pup Bosco!
For Chopper Russo, real estate isn’t just a profession—it’s a lifelong passion rooted in family and experience. A former furniture manufacturer whose family owned more than 100 apartment units, multiple factories, and commercial properties, Russo was immersed in real estate from a young age.
“I’ve been involved in real estate since I was a child,” says Russo, who also earned a minor in real estate from Marquette University. Today, he leads the highly successful Chopper Russo Team, known across New Jersey for its high-touch service, strategic marketing, and strong community presence.
With numerous certifications under his belt—including MCNE (Master Certified Negotiation Expert), SFR (Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource), CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Expert), and ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative)—Russo believes education and specialization are key to staying ahead.
“Our industry is constantly evolving,” he notes. “These accreditations have helped us adapt and expand into different niches. I recently became one of only 3,500 Certified Probate Specialists in the country. Right now, I’m representing three estates and have worked with many others over the years.”
As the first real estate agent in New Jersey to earn the MCNE designation, Russo emphasizes the power of negotiation.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all approach,” he explains. “It’s about having a suitcase of tools and knowing which one to use depending on the situation.”
Bergen County
The Russo Team's success is also driven by a robust marketing strategy and a deep database of contacts. “We’ve built something that works,” Russo says. “Our marketing and database have truly set us apart.”
Beyond the business, Russo is a familiar face in the local community—often donating time and support to area events and organizations.
“My wife and I don’t have children of our own, but we’re proud to be ‘aunt and uncle’ to many — and devoted dog parents,” he shares. “It just feels like the right thing to do. As we like to say, ‘It’s for the UTES!’”
management is key—and thank goodness for texting,” he says. “My mom always told me, ‘If someone reaches out to you, make sure you respond.’”
To first-time buyers and sellers, he offers this advice: “Find a full-time professional. Not your cousin’s uncle’s friend who sold a home 40 years ago,” he shares. “Find someone who doesn’t have a great golf game—that usually means they’re working hard.”
“We have specialists for every segment— luxury, leasing, commercial, even business sales.”
In today’s competitive market, Russo sees a growing inventory imbalance and encourages both creativity and transparency. “You have to be the trusted advisor, the one guiding clients step-by-step,” he explains. “That’s what people need right now.”
— Chopper Russo
MEET THE CHOPPER RUSSO TEAM
RE/MAX Select – Oakland, NJ
Looking ahead, Russo sees real estate continuing to evolve alongside the people it serves. “We’re dealing with five generations now—each with different goals and expectations,” he says. “Always ask questions. Be available, be diligent, be trustworthy—and above all, be professional.”
His team’s diverse portfolio—ranging from residential homes to commercial properties and business brokerage—is a reflection of its size and expertise.
“We have specialists for every segment—luxury, leasing, commercial, even business sales,” he notes. “They’re all guilty by association,” he joked, referencing his own diverse background as a restaurateur, furniture manufacturer/importer, and real estate investor.
Despite managing more than 17,000 phone contacts, Russo is known for his responsiveness. “Time
Your trusted real estate experts for:
- Residential Homes
- Luxury Properties
- Commercial Real Estate
- Probate & Estate Sales
- Business Brokerage
- Leasing Services
Address: Chopper Russo Team
392 Ramapo Valley Rd, Oakland
Phone: (201) 240-5200
Website: chopperrussogroup.com
A Century of Service
FROM BLIZZARDS TO RESCUE MISSIONS, VOLUNTEERS HAVE BEEN SAVING LIVES AND SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR 100 YEARS
For the past century, the Franklin Lakes Fire Department has been serving—and saving—the community.
It all began on Dec. 4, 1924, during an open meeting held as a blizzard raged outside, when 25 men saw the community’s need and stepped up to form a fire company. The department quickly grew to 42 members, and the borough purchased land to build a firehouse. In the following year, the men worked with the borough to buy equipment, including a Seagraves combination pumping, double chemical tank, and hose car, which was delivered in October 1926. That same month, the borough formally dedicated the Pulis Avenue Firehouse.
Today, about 30 volunteers continue the legacy, including Capt. Larry Kohan, who has served for three decades.
“I joined right after college. I was always interested in firefighting,” he says.
Along with his fellow firefighters, Kohan has responded to structure fires, rescues, auto accidents, and downed trees and wires. Like the firefighters before him, Kohan has saved lives and mourned those who couldn’t be saved.
The department also has a water rescue team that has been deployed to different towns throughout Bergen County during flooding. “We have about 10 guys who are swift-water trained,” Kohan says, noting the department also pumps water out of basements.
ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANKLIN LAKES FIRE DEPARTMENT
Over the decades, the Franklin Lakes Fire Department has supported the community. “We’re always out there whenever the town has an event, like holiday celebrations and parades,” Kohan says. “The kids love seeing the truck. We always have plastic helmets for them.”
And the community loves them back. In addition to a 100th anniversary dinner earlier this year, Mayor Charles J.X. Kahwaty issued a proclamation honoring the Franklin Lakes Volunteer Fire Department on its 100th anniversary, recognizing that “its members perform many heroic deeds that are often taken for granted during the course of their very arduous duties and with great personal sacrifice on the part of themselves and their families.”
In his career, the call that resonates most with Kohan is the Most Blessed Sacrament Church fire in December 2019. “It was such a large fire, and the church was such a pillar of the community,” he says.
In December, the department made national news when it responded to a call to save a dog that had fallen through the ice on Shadow Lake, swam to a nearby island, and became stranded. Suiting up in ice rescue gear, the volunteers used a canoe at the water’s edge and coaxed the dog inside with treats to bring it safely back to shore.
Kohan says calls involving pets can be especially tough. “We’ve responded to house fires where the pets don’t get out and pass away. Most of us are pet owners. We try and get the pets. We take it very seriously,” he says, noting the department conducts training with veterinary groups that teach animal CPR.
“We’re always out there whenever the town has an event, like holiday celebrations and parades, the kids love seeing the truck. We always have plastic helmets for them.”
Captain Larry Kohan
“The biggest things are: Don’t play with matches, test your alarms, and have a plan—especially if you have young children—on how to get out of the house and where to meet, like at a mailbox or a neighbor’s door.” —Capt. Larry Kohan
The best thing, Kohan says, is for people to prevent fires and act quickly if a fire breaks out. In October 1932, the Fire Department began observing Fire Prevention Week with students and continues to offer instruction in schools. “The biggest things are: Don’t play with matches, test your alarms, and have a plan — especially if you have young children — on how to get out of the house and where to meet, like at a mailbox or a neighbor’s door,” he says.
The department is seeking adult volunteers over age 18 — no experience is required. Youth ages 16 to 18 can join as junior firefighters, a program launched in 1999.
For more information visit franklinlakesfire.com
FRANKLIN
LAKES FIRE DEPARTMENT
Address: 479 Bender Ct, Franklin Lakes Phone: (201) 891-5736
Captain Larry Kohan
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY SLOWINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE KARTRITE RESORT & INDOOR WATERPARK
“The best part of having my birthday party at The Kartrite was going down all of the fun slides with my friends.”
—Charlotte Slowinski
A Birthday Party to Remember
Charlotte’s Epic Sleepover at The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark!
When I tell people I have four daughters, I hold my breath and wait for the inevitable comments and questions that follow. Our family’s size naturally leads to many birthday parties every year—four to be exact, plus various family celebrations. Over the years, the themes and ideas have started to feel a little redundant, and it’s hard to keep the creative spark alive when you feel like you've "done it all."
So when my soon-to-be 12-year-old daughter, Charlotte, came to me and announced, “I want a sleepover party at a hotel,” I thought about it for a moment. While I could certainly take her to any hotel locally, I couldn’t help but wonder— how would I keep the girls entertained? That’s when I remembered a trip we had taken to The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Water Park a few years ago. The resort’s waterpark had left such an impression on me, and I realized it was the perfect solution to make this birthday party epic.
THE WATERPARK
The Kartrite’s waterpark is the main attraction, and for good reason. With over 80,000 square feet of indoor water attractions, the fun never stops, rain or shine. The waterpark features everything from thrilling slides to a lazy river, catering to all ages. My favorite part, however, is the indoor/outdoor hot tub. After hours of watching the girls splash around, I found
it to be the perfect place to unwind. The warm water combined with the fresh air made it incredibly relaxing, and it was the ideal spot to recharge before the next round of excitement.
THE CABANA
To make the day even easier, we booked a cabana as our base camp. The cabana offered a great homebase for the girls to gather, dry off, and enjoy food and drinks throughout the day. We employed a buddy system so they could explore the waterpark with some independence, always knowing where to check in. As any parent knows, it’s easy to go overboard with treats when you’re away from home, so I definitely allowed more snacks and soda than I normally would. Shh… don’t tell the other parents!
ACCOMMODATIONS
As much as I wanted to give Charlotte some autonomy with her friends, I also wanted to keep an eye on them. So, we booked adjoining rooms. Charlotte and her friends got to feel all grown-up in their own room, while my husband, myself, and our other daughters stayed in a Family King Bunk Suite. This suite is perfect for families with kids—it’s 500 square feet and comes with a king-size bed, a sleeper sofa, and a separate room with two sets of bunk beds. It gave us all space to relax while still being close enough to check on the girls.
DINING
When it comes to dining, The Kartrite makes it incredibly easy. We had several dining options right on site. The resort has a full-service restaurant for sit-down meals, but with the waterpark’s busy schedule, we opted for the fast food options available within the park itself. It made mealtime a breeze, and the girls loved grabbing a quick bite between their adventures.
ARCADE AND ATTRACTIONS
After a day of swimming, we headed down to the arcade for some fun. I purchased an Ultimate Indoor Fun Package, which gave the girls credits they could split however they wanted. Some opted to play video games, while others got into the Escape Cube or tried their hands at Carabiners, a daring ropes course. There was something for everyone, and it was a great way to keep kids of different ages entertained.
TAKE TWO: A WATERPARK DOUBLE FEATURE
The next morning, after a night of staying up way too late, we geared up for round two. The Kartrite offers two days of waterpark admission with room rentals, so we made the most of it by requesting a late check-out. We went straight back down to the waterpark to do it all over again—more slides, more fun, and more time to bond. By the afternoon, we were all sufficiently worn out. We packed up and hit the road to head home.
This birthday party is one Charlotte—and all of us—won’t forget anytime soon. It was a perfect blend of relaxation, excitement, and family fun, and I couldn't have asked for a better way to celebrate my daughter’s special day.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE KARTRITE
The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark offers an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.For more details on booking your own getaway, visit thekartrite.com . Located at 555 Resort Drive, Monticello, NY.
JONAS K. SEIGEL Partner
JAN K. SEIGEL Partner
