Kids + Pets
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Welcome to our Kids & Pets Issue!
Dear Readers,
If there’s one thing I’ve learned while trying to write this letter with a Lab puppy under my desk and a rescue dog at my side, it’s that life with pets is rarely quiet—but it’s always full. Bailey, our ever-curious Lab, is currently attempting to shred a magazine (not this one, thankfully), while Finn, our older and wiser rescue, looks on with the calm of someone who’s seen it all before. These two are more than pets—they’re part of the family, and like many of you, I couldn’t imagine our home without them.
That’s why this month’s Kids & Pets issue feels especially close to my heart. We’re celebrating the companions—furry, feathered or just full of questions—who make our lives a little more joyful (and a lot more unpredictable). This issue is packed with stories that celebrate love, resilience, laughter, and the special bond between humans and animals.
Start by flipping to Page 26 to meet Rigatoni, the winner of our Doggy Cover Contest. With a personality as big as his name, Rigatoni is already a local celebrity, and for good reason.
Then, don’t miss Turning Grief into Purpose on Page 18, where we highlight a moving local story about love, loss, and the strength to create change. This one will stay with you long after the last page.
In the mood for a getaway? Luxury by the Lane on Page 14 takes you on a scenic escape that blends comfort and adventure, perfect for families looking to travel in style.
Looking for something closer to home? Head to Page 23 to Go Wild at Turtle Back Zoo This Summer. Whether you’re planning a family day out or rediscovering your inner kid, it’s the perfect place to make memories.
You’ll also want to check out ‘Seed Cats’ and a Mighty Mission on Page 12. This heartwarming cat rescue story shows how one small organization is making a mighty impact—one paw at a time.
And finally, when all that reading works up an appetite, turn to Page 32 for our recipe for Peanut Butter Oat Balls—a simple, kid-friendly treat that might even earn a tail wag or two (Bailey certainly thinks so).
Thanks for sharing your summer with us. We’re grateful to be part of your community, one story at a time.
Warmly,
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
Christina Nickson | christina.nickson@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Angelica Ferri
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Marian Morrison, Nicholas Hall, Lauren Lovallo, Jane Alzate
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Beth Berardi, Gabe Rhodes, Phil Aumack, Liz Clayman, Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue, Lindsay Schambach, Turtle Back Zoo, Jackie Korn - Korn Dogs NJ, McLoone’s Boathouse
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 Megan Cagle
Proverbs
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1—7: West Orange seniors dazzled on prom night, celebrating in style, laughter, and unforgettable memories!
Photography by West Orange Public Schools
business monthly
New West Essex YMCA Facility Set to Open in Late 2026
Metro YMCA and West Essex YMCA Board members and executives officially broke ground on the highly anticipated new West Essex YMCA facility, set to open in late 2026. The state-of-the-art building represents a major investment in health, wellness, and community enrichment. Leaders gathered to celebrate this exciting milestone, marking the beginning of a new era of expanded programs and services for families across the region. Stay tuned as construction progresses on this transformative community hub.
• 100% Memory Care Facility
• Expertise in Dementia and Alzheimer’s care extends over 25 years
• Consulted with John Hopkins Alzheimer’s Association
• Care for Early Stages Through End-of-Life
• Personalized, Therapeutic Programming
• Purpose-Built Communities
Please Call for Tours 973.736.3100
arden-courts.org/WestOrange 510 Prospect Ave, West Orange, NJ
Photography by Chris LoBue
‘Seed Cats’ and a MIGHTY MISSION
Some startups launch with seed money. Edie Hogan, president and founder of Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue, jokes that she launched with “seed cats” instead.
For many years, Hogan balanced working full time while volunteering with various cat rescues, shelters and foster programs in New Jersey. But in February 2021, when an acquaintance approached her about rescuing two female cats from a difficult situation, she took it as a sign that something greater was to come.
“A man had a garage where he fixed cars in Newark, and he had two female cats there,” Hogan shares. “He refused to get them spayed, and they kept having litters over and over again. Some of the kittens died. Some of the kittens became strays. We worked for a month to convince this man to give me the two mamas and their newborns.”
ARTICLE BY LAUREN LOVALLO PHOTOGRAPHY BY BERNIE’S BUDDIES CAT RESCUE
Bernie's Buddies Cat Rescue founder and president Edie Hogan, left with volunteer Chrissi Daniel at an adoption event at Barkley's Marketplace in Branchburg
Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue
“I brought in these two mama cats and each of them had five kittens, so I had them in two spare rooms here at my house,” she continues. “I had the beginnings of the rescue and then had the very first adoption day on May 15, 2021.”
With that, Hogan officially launched Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue. In the four years since its inception, she has tirelessly advocated for responsible shelter practices and pet ownership.
“I have taken from my years of fostering for other organizations, learned from those experiences, learned what worked, what didn’t,” Hogan says. “And even though I have to stay small because of cost, because of vet bills, we have done a great job. We are very focused. We want to do the right thing. We don’t want to just be a conveyor belt of cats in and cats out.
“We are doing what we can in our small corner of the world.”
Hogan estimates more than 70 kittens and cats have been adopted from Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue since that first adoption day. She’s proud to have rescued animals from all over New Jersey — from Piscataway and Newark to Bayonne and North Plainfield, to name a few.
According to Hogan, the process of adopting a kitten or cat through Bernie’s Buddies is intentionally meticulous.
Kittens and cats of all ages that come through her rescue are spayed or neutered, given dewormer and appropriate vaccinations, and tested for feline AIDS and feline leukemia. They’re also socialized with other cats — and occasionally dogs — put on healthy diets, and evaluated thoroughly before being put up for adoption.
“It is a very thorough process, and it’s everything from soup to nuts,” Hogan said.
Potential adopters are also thoroughly vetted. Hogan requires references, confirmation of a current vet, landlord approval for renters, and information on existing pets. It’s all about giving the animals in her care every chance to succeed.
The rescue, based in Central New Jersey and named for a cat Hogan once fostered, operates entirely on her determination, a dedicated team of volunteers, and the generosity of others.
As Bernie’s Buddies does not have a standalone facility, Hogan and a handful of volunteers foster cats of all ages in their own homes or help in other ways.
While rewarding, running the rescue comes with its challenges. Hogan and her team pay for expensive vet bills, food and other necessities out of their own pockets. That’s why she’s especially grateful when people donate money, cat beds, litter, food and toys.
“I could not be in operation for four years without the small band of volunteers and foster parents that have donated their time, talent, effort and own resources,” Hogan says, citing Chrissi and Dave Daniel,
Nina Danner, Kristen Kovatch, Bernadette Danner and Patrizia Fresia.
“I could not do this without the volunteers, foster parents and supporters that have done what they’ve done for Bernie’s Buddies. I am not an island unto myself. It’s just amazing — the dedicated people who have helped in various ways because they really understand that everything I do is not about me, it’s about the cats and kittens.”
Bernie’s Buddies holds weekly adoption events for kittens and cats at Barkley’s Marketplace in Branchburg, a small family-run business that has partnered with Hogan since the beginning. The pet store — which also has a location in Flemington — offers customers a discount if they also buy something for Hogan’s rescue.
In the future, Hogan hopes to build partnerships with businesses, restaurants, bars and shops around New Jersey for fundraisers like pizza nights, wine tastings, sip-and-shops and more.
“If there’s a business owner out there that is willing to host us, I would love to bring attention to that business along with my cat rescue. Everybody wins.”
In the meantime, Hogan and her team are looking ahead. Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue has made it this far, and there’s no stopping it now.
“We’re small,” Hogan shares, “but we’re mighty.”
For more information, follow Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue on Instagram (@berniesbuddiescatrescue) and Facebook (Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue).
Email berniesbuddiescatrescue@gmail.com.
LUXURY BY THE LANE
ARTICLE BY NICHOLAS HALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ CLAYMAN
Seven Beach Lane redefines Hamptons hospitality with modern elegance, gourmet fare, and a new wave of wellness.
As we continue into the second half of the summer season, there’s been a quiet but strong buzz building in Westhampton Beach. The source? Seven Beach Lane, the boutique hotel that is redefining Hamptons luxury. For those looking for a luxurious vacation within driving distance from New Jersey, Seven Beach Lane offers the perfect getaway.
Less than three hours away from North Jersey by car, Seven Beach Lane is set within a meticulously restored 1885 Victorian property. The upscale boutique hotel captivates guests with its blend of historic charm and modern luxury and is pleased to announce its reopening for the 2025 season. The hotel boasts 16 guest rooms and suites, and for those looking for a more luxurious and private retreat; a beautiful two-bedroom penthouse.
Seven Beach offers an array of signature culinary experiences which champion local ingredients as their foundation. From Scottish salmon paired with black beluga lentils and salmon roe, to a cavatelli pasta served with baby artichokes, pancetta and chanterelle mushrooms to a 10 Oz wagyu strip steak, the menu offers something for every taste pallet. The hotel also provides a wonderful pre-fixe menu available on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday and includes two courses for $45.
The wine list and curated handcrafted cocktails also serve the perfect accompaniment to the well varied menu. The list includes twists on classics like the ‘Golden Hour Old Fashion’ and the ‘Seven Beach Lane Espresso Martini’ which lists Barolo Chinato wine as an ingredient. The team has also created the tempting ‘Emerald Revere’ cocktail which includes Bushmills 10 Year Irish Whiskey, Italicus Rosolio, lemon juice basil, and honey syrup for a bit of sweetness. For those who are looking to indulge sans alcohol, Seven Beach Lane has also crafted a selection of mocktails from a ‘Spicy Paloma’ to a ‘Strawberry Rhubarb Spritz’ which includes non-alcoholic rum. All of these can be enjoyed in the hotel’s indoor and outdoor lounges.
“We were thrilled with the warm reception Seven Beach Lane received during our inaugural season,” said Corey Gluckstal, owner and developer of the property. “The feedback from our guests was overwhelmingly positive, and we are eager to build on that momentum as we prepare for our 2025 reopening. We used the winter months to refine our offerings and prepare for an even better guest experience.”
Not only is the property beautiful, but it is also well situated. It sits just one mile from Rogers Beach and the boutiques of Main Street, offering access to the best of Westhampton Beach. There is also a dedicated concierge service which can curate bespoke experiences like art tours, private sailboat excursions, and exclusive on-premise events.
This year Seven Beach Lane is excited to introduce a new echelon of luxury with a refined wellness program, sauna and cold plunge, and an expanded outdoor lounge. They are also launching an exclusive private membership, which grants year-round access to curated experiences and unparalleled benefits. Members can enjoy VIP access to dining reservations, priority booking and special menu pricing during their visits to the restaurant and bar. They will be granted discounts on room rates, including last-minute availability savings, and the ability to partake in the “Seven Friends” program which extends these benefits to friends and family throughout the year.
With what is anticipated to be a strong return to the 2025 summer season, we look forward to seeing how the Seven Beach Lane team continues to grow and reinvent itself each year.
Turning Grief into Purpose
Lindsay Schambach never envisioned a career in grief support. The former Newark teacher and charter school principal thought her life’s purpose was firmly planted in education. But when her husband, Mike Schambach— Montclair State’s head men’s lacrosse coach and a Bridgewater native—passed away from stage four colon cancer in 2018, everything changed.
Left widowed at 35 with two young children, Schambach was thrust into a world she hadn’t prepared for. “I didn’t know another soul who had gone through what we had,” she recalls. That’s when someone mentioned Imagine, a New Jerseybased grief support center offering free services to families coping with loss.
Schambach and her son began attending Imagine sessions every other week. “It was life-changing,” she shares. “Grieving people need grieving people.” That experience, she says, not only helped her survive—but transformed her calling. In 2021, she became Imagine’s Executive Director, now leading the very organization that helped save her family.
Lindsay Schambach’s Mission at Imagine
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY LINDSAY
SCHAMBACH
Imagine supports families grieving the death of a loved one, regardless of the cause or the relationship. “Whether it’s a parent, sibling, grandparent, or best friend,” Schambach explains, “if someone is grieving, they are welcome at Imagine.” The organization operates out of Mountainside and Newark, with services extending across the state.
A former educator, Schambach saw the glaring gap in how schools respond to grief. Under her leadership, Imagine built a training and education department to help schools become grief-informed—ensuring students aren’t overlooked during a time of profound emotional need.
Children, Schambach emphasized, are often the “forgotten mourners.” Adults might wrongly assume that young age minimizes loss. But Schambach points out what people in the field have long known to be true, “If you’re old enough to love someone, you’re old enough to grieve them.” Grief is lifelong, she adds. “You miss your dad at three, but when you turn six and there’s a daddy-daughter dance, it hits you all over again.”
Imagine’s grief model embraces that longevity. Some children stay in support groups for years, processing their grief as they grow. Schambach's own son, for example, eventually realized he had lived longer without his father than with him. “That’s a young time in life to face something so big.”
Imagine’s free programming is sustained by generous donors and community support. Local efforts include Goals for Imagine, a fundraising campaign started by Bridgewater Lacrosse program and led by high schooler Brody Nussman. This initiative supported by the lacrosse families—pledging money for each goal scored during the season — has grown to include neighboring towns like Hillsborough and Somerville, supported by coaches that grew up playing with Schambach's late husband, Mike Schambach, and continuing the culture of community that Bridgewater has long supported.
In addition to youth support, Imagine is expanding its offerings with women’s and men’s retreats and planning a unique family weekend designed for healing through creating new memories. They’ve also created New Jersey’s first grief and loss curriculum for high schoolers, a state initiative Imagine helped champion, making NJ the first state in the country to mandate grief education as part of a high school education.
“We always say: you can’t heal grief with time alone,” Schambach notes. “It’s what you do with that time that matters.”
Through Imagine, Schambach carries on her husband’s legacy of kindness, service, and community—offering others the same compassionate support that helped her family rebuild. Her mission is simple, yet profound: no grieving child or parent should have to walk alone.
To learn more about Imagine or to support its mission, visit imaginenj.org .
PHOTOGRAPHY
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
BETH BERARDI, GABE RHODES, PHIL AUMACK
HOW COACH ANGELO GINGERELLI SHAPES YOUTH THROUGH SPORTS, FITNESS, AND LIFE LESSONS
BUILDING STRONG ATHLETES AND STRONGER COMMUNITIES
BY
Angelo Gingerelli’s journey from strength and conditioning coach at Seton Hall University to mentor for local youth athletes began with a simple desire to support his daughter’s softball dreams.
“My daughter wanted to play softball after loving to watch Seton Hall games,” Gingerelli says. “That led me to coach her team and eventually get more involved in Long Branch Little League.”
In addition to coaching, Gingerelli recently launched an off-season strength and conditioning camp for
lifestyle. “It’s common to see teams train together in the morning and then work at the beach or lifeguard in the afternoon. Those summer days build camaraderie and lifelong memories.”
Gingerelli is also the author of The Next Four Years: Compete, Win & Thrive in College Sports, a guide designed to help high school athletes prepare for the demands of college athletics. “Every fall, I see freshmen who arrive unprepared for the intensity and workload,” he says. “My goal was to provide them with the tools to succeed from day one.”
“MY GOAL WAS TO PROVIDE THEM WITH THE TOOLS TO SUCCEED FROM DAY ONE.” - ANGELO GINGERELLI
young baseball and softball players, focusing on those not engaged in winter sports. “The turnout was great, and the results were even better,” he says.
His summer work with Beach Road Fit allows him to train local high school teams. “It’s rewarding to see players early in their athletic careers grow not just as athletes, but as young men and women,” Gingerelli says.
Living in Long Branch, Gingerelli appreciates the town’s diversity and the range of sports opportunities it offers. “Families here have varied interests—some stick to soccer, others to baseball, dance, or track. But Long Branch has so many options, and kids who explore them all really benefit.”
He also highlighted the community spirit tied to the Jersey Shore
He advises student-athletes to research their future schools carefully. “Signing a scholarship is a huge accomplishment, but it’s just the starting line. Some decisions, like choosing a school with a strong academic program related to your career goals, will impact your life long after sports.”
Balancing academics, athletics, and personal life requires foresight, Gingerelli says. “With more freedom thanks to the transfer portal and NIL opportunities, athletes have to think long-term. The right choice isn’t always the one that offers the most playing time or money upfront.”
When it comes to training, Gingerelli stresses the importance of mastering fundamentals before jumping into advanced routines. “Young athletes
often progress too fast. Basic movements like squats, lunges, and push-ups build the foundation for long-term success and injury prevention.”
Beyond athletic skills, Gingerelli fosters community pride through his coaching. “Wearing our green Long Branch hat, it’s about maximizing potential and taking pride in our team and city. Unlike higher levels of sports, local youth leagues are about playing with your community—your neighbors, classmates, and friends.”
Balancing coaching, writing, and family life requires careful scheduling. “I periodize my life like I do my athletes’ training—busy during the school year, more flexible in summer to focus on camps and writing.”
Gingerelli encourages young athletes to maintain a positive mindset. “Challenges will come. Knowing you have the potential and putting in hard work is key. Coaches often put their best foot forward during recruiting, but reality includes balancing school and sports at a high level.”
Finally, he emphasizes the importance of physical fitness beyond sports. “Despite a booming fitness industry, obesity rates are high. Making exercise and good nutrition a daily habit is a game changer for long-term health. Many adults in Long Branch enjoy activities like pickleball, jogging, or yoga—finding lifelong ways to stay active.”
For Gingerelli, youth sports are about much more than competition—they build character, community, and habits that last a lifetime.
BOOK SPOTLIGHT: THE NEXT FOUR YEARS: COMPETE, WIN & THRIVE IN COLLEGE SPORTS
A must-read for student-athletes preparing for college sports. Covers recruiting, school selection, training, conditioning, and sports nutrition.
Available on Amazon at: amazon.com/ Next-Four-Years-Compete-College/dp/ B0DHQTQWBB
Angelo Gingerelli
NEW EXHIBITS, HANDS-ON LEARNING, AND SUMMER EVENTS
AWAIT IN ESSEX COUNTY
Go Wild at The Turtle Back Zoo
This Summer
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TURTLE BACK ZOO
If your crew is craving a day that blends wild animals, hands-on fun, and just the right amount of learning, Turtle Back Zoo delivers in spades. Located in the heart of Essex County, this not-so-hidden gem is home to over 100 species from around the globe—think bison, penguins, leopards, sloths, and even tarantulas (if you dare).
And the zoo is only getting better. Summer 2025 brings the debut of a newly upgraded Outback Adventure exhibit , which will feature a wider boardwalk and enhanced viewing areas to better showcase the zoo’s kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Visitors can look forward to a more immersive, accessible experience that brings you closer to the animals than ever before.
Another seasonal highlight is the return of the Butterfly Tent , where guests can walk among fluttering beauties like Painted Ladies, Monarchs, and Zebra Longwings. It’s a peaceful, magical experience—perfect for all ages and an Instagram favorite.
Looking for something interactive? From brushing goats at Essex Farm to riding the beloved miniature train through the South Mountain Reservation, there’s something to excite every age and attention span. The Treetop Adventure Course, Sea Turtle Recovery Center, and Touch Tank also offer dynamic ways for kids to learn while having fun.
SPECIAL EVENTS TO CATCH IN AUGUST:
Wonders of the Wild on August 9, 1–3 PM at the Berson Learning Center, introduces kids to animal care and conservation through exciting hands-on activities.
Family Nature Club on August 25, 10 AM–12 PM, is a guided exploration of the natural world designed to bring families together in curiosity and discovery.
Plus, don’t miss Family Fun Nights every Wednesday and Thursday in July and August, when the zoo stays open late for evening adventures under the stars.
As Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. puts it:
“Whether you spend a day or an afternoon, Turtle Back Zoo is a special place where children and their families can learn about animals and gain appreciation for nature. I invite you to Experience Essex and Turtle Back Zoo.”
Tickets start at $19 for children and seniors, $22 for adults, and are free for children under 2. For hours, programs, and more information, visit turtlebackzoo.com
MEET RIGATONI
The Frenchton from Ortley Beach proves that love comes in small, sandy, and seriously cute packages.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACKIE KORN - KORN DOGS NJ
This summer’s top dog is none other than Rigatoni, an 8½-year-old Frenchton from Ortley Beach, who has stolen the hearts of everyone he meets — whether they’re neighbors, beachgoers or even kids on passing boats.
Rigatoni and his owner found each other in what can only be described as a mutual soul connection. “We picked each other,” his owner shared.
From burying himself in the sand to morning Greenies, Rigatoni lives life with joyful enthusiasm. He’s a regular on the boardwalk, loves visiting his neighbors, and never turns down a good massage or beach walk. “Being cute and handsome as hell” is just part of the Rigatoni charm, making him a magnet for smiles wherever he goes. CONTINUED
Rigatoni
For this special feature, we photographed Rigatoni at the beautiful Essex County Parks Boat Pavilion, where he posed like a pro against the scenic lakeside backdrop.
One unforgettable memory with Rigatoni happened during a boat ride in Savannah, where a young boy working alongside his father formed an instant bond with the pup. “As we left, the boy ran to us and asked if he could say good bye to Rigatoni, he hugged Rigatoni, and said, ‘I love you, Rigatoni.’” It was a moment his owner will never forget.
What does Rigatoni mean to his family? “Simply everything,” his owner said. “I think I rely on him more than he relies on me.”
And if Rigatoni could leave the world with one message?
“You don’t pick your dog—your dog picks you.”
“YOU DON’T PICK YOUR DOG—YOUR DOG PICKS YOU.”
SIP, SIT, AND STAY AWHILE
YAPPY HOUR AT MCLOONE’S BOATHOUSE IS A TAIL-WAGGING TREAT
ARTICLE BY MARIAN MORRISON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MCLOONE’S BOATHOUSE
Looking for the paw-fect way to wrap up your summer weekend? Mark your calendar for Saturday, Aug. 16, when McLoone’s Boathouse in West Orange is rolling out the water bowls and drink specials for its much-loved Yappy Hour—a family-friendly gathering where dogs and their humans can mingle lakeside.
Running from 3:30 to 6 p.m. on the scenic patio at 9 Cherry Lane, this tail-wagging social hour offers a refreshing mix of canine camaraderie and signature cocktails—all with a view of the water and a whole lot of love for our four-legged friends.
Whether you're eight or eighty (or have four paws and a waggy tail), this all-ages event is free to attend and comes complete with free venue parking, a dog-welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of chances to make new friends—twolegged or otherwise.
“Yappy Hour is one of our favorite events of the summer,” says McLoone’s staff. “It’s a chance for pet lovers to come together, relax, and treat themselves and their pups.”
Furry guests are encouraged to socialize off-leash (while supervised) and enjoy the pet-friendly vibes, while their people sip from the Yappy Hour drink menu featuring summer spritzes, mocktails, and frozen favorites. The kitchen will also be serving its regular crowd-pleasers, perfect for post-park snacks or full-on dinner.
And don’t worry—dogs don’t leave empty-pawed. Treat stations, water bowls, and plenty of scritches are on hand for every pup who shows up ready to party.
So leash up your best friend, grab the kids, and head to the patio for an evening that’s equal parts chill and cheerful. With live music playing in the background and tails wagging all around, McLoone’s Boathouse Yappy Hour might just be the happiest hour of your August.
“It’s a chance for pet lovers to come together, relax, and treat themselves and their pups.”
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
AUGUST 5TH
National Night Out
Flood’s Hill, South Orange | 5:00 PM
Community-building evening with first responders, dunk tank, food, giveaways and inflatables at Flood’s Hill. For more infomation visit somapso.com
AUGUST 7TH
Montclair Mile (USATF‑NJ Grand Prix)
Montclair Town Center | 5:00 PM
The Montclair Mile will take place on a spectator friendly ½ mile USATF certified course (and is part of the USATF-NJ Grand Prix!) that starts and finishes at the Montclair Brewery. There will be races for runners of all ages and ability levels (and even a race for our four-legged friends!)
AUGUST 13TH
South Orange Summer Nights (The Wild Robot DJ Lou + Movie)
76 South Orange Ave, South Orange | 7:00 PM
Kid-friendly dance party at 7 p.m., followed by family-friendly outdoor movie under the stars. 7 p.m. (Dance), 8 p.m. (Movie). For more information visit southorange.org.
