BC the Mag Winter 2019

WINTER 2019 Complimentary Issue

WINTER 2019 www.bcthemag.com

Wake Up With Marci

Wyckoff resident offers women-centric talk show

Man’s Best Friend

Ramsey-based dog chews are ‘paw-fect’

Assisting ‘The Most Vulnerable’ United Way addresses unmet needs

LINDA IS EVERYTHING TO HIM. BEATING HER CANCER WAS

EVERYTHING TO US

When Linda learned she had uterine cancer, she and her husband turned to John Theurer Cancer Center. It’s here that patients are supported by highly specialized physicians that bring a collective knowledge of the most effective therapies, technology and research. John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center – we’re not just at the forefront of cancer, we’re pioneering the possible.

LEARN ABOUT PIONEERING THE POSSIBLE Visit JTCancerCenter.org/LearnMore or call to speak to a nurse at 551-996-5855

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WINTER 2019 Publishers Steven & Sharon Goldstein Associate Publisher Brandon Goldstein Editorial Director Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Design Director Jessica LaPlaca-Bruno Fashion Director Candace Kristin Photographer Nicholas Gagliano, Studio Uno Photography Contributing Writers Tara DeLorenzo Michelle DeSantis Kristin Favaloro Brandon Goldstein Dr. Michael Gross Soneca Guadara Louise B. Hafesh Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Tara Ippolito-Lafontant Jennifer Peters Stacie Rose Stefanie Sears Natalie Zisa

.

Bergen County The Magazine is published six times a year.

Mail all editorial and advertising materials to 297-101 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 135, Oradell, NJ 07649 or email materials to steven@bcthemag.com.

For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5197 or (201) 694-5196. For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com.

Copyright 2019. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.

Authorized Dealers Of Fine Watches

58 East Palisade Avenue, Englewood, NJ 07631 . 201-894-1825 www.thetimepiececollection.com Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/timepiececollection

A Leer from the Publishers s we already begin to second guess or completely ignore the resolutions we made a few mere weeks ago, I wanted to offer you a quick kick in the tushie and a reminder that you have the power to – if nothing else – at least start heading in the direction of your goals and your dreams.

We often look to movie stars and musicians as our aspirational icons, offering us the get-rich-quick dream scenarios we might achieve if only we possessed the same harmonious vocal cords, not to mention enviable “back” views.We turn a blind eye to the ups and downs many of these successful people encountered, and completely forget the millions who wanted to be this year’s Ariana Grande but just fell short. No worries! As I always like to say, “There’s plenty to go around.” There’s plenty more sitting in the pot for your big payday.

Life has always worked in increments – from early youth to your tumultuous teenage years and finally to becoming an adult. Adulthood, though, is where most people think it stops. “Adulthood” is just one big blob of 40 or 50 years until you’re finally a senior citizen. I’m here to tell you that isn’t true at all.

Take my kids, for example. Both are young adults, figuring things out on their own, discovering that life can be a real buzz kill sometimes.Yet, that’s the incremental stage they are in. For some strange reason, I blame pop culture.

My kids and many of their contemporaries sometimes feel as if they’re failures just because they aren’t millionaires yet. I tell them life is a staircase; each step leads somewhere better, but it takes hard work and constant improvement to climb those steps. One day, though, you’ll reach

the level to which you aspire. And, yes, the elevator isn’t working and the escalator hasn’t been installed yet.

So, when you decide you want to “be skinny” this year, make a more definitive resolution, something that’s attainable, yet leaves room for next

year’s resolution to improve upon. Regardless of what that Facebook ad says, nobody really loses 50 pounds in two weeks, and you won’t either.

Some would think that after 18 years of producing BC The Mag we might feel as if we’ve perfected what this publication needs to be. Yet, like you and your goals, we never are quite satisfied. We are always seeking to improve, and to find interesting stories about our great residents and businesses that you might not have heard about yet.

Bergen County is such an amazing place to live. It’s our continuing goal to give you the best opportunity to know everything you can about it.

A

Steven and Sharon Goldstein Publishers

Happy New Year to you!

@bcthemag

6 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

Sharon & Steven Goldstein

be adorable

marcia’s attic for kids englewood 201.894.5701

CONTENTS

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32

FEATURES

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32 38

38

BERGEN COUNTY Sharing Stories of Hope and Encouragement Wyckoff resident offers women-centric talk show

44

BERGEN COUNTY Ramsey-Based Acadia Antlers Loves America’s Dogs Like Their Own

58

ART Englewood Management Company Strings In Violinist

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58

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT Assisting ‘The Most Vulnerable Residents’ United Way addresses unmet needs through programs, resources BERGEN COUNTY Your Post-Holiday Health and Wellness Checklist FASHION A Sweet New Year

CONTENTS

78

54

COLUMNS

54 74 78 80 84 86

90

AL DENTE DIVA

90

BEAUTY AND THE ‘BURBS

98

Al Dente Diva’s Romantic Valentine’s Day Menu To Cook At Home Swap Your Beauty Products For Winter

THE BERGEN ‘SKINNY’

Get The ‘Skinny’ On Bergen County Winter Blues Edition

WHAT’S IN YOUR BAG?

Beat Your Beauty Winter Woes With These Products

STYLE WITH SONECA

The Truth About ‘Fast Fashion’

THE SPORTS DOCTOR

102 104 114

114 ESCAPES

Bucolic Bliss Finding Solace at Buttermilk Inn & Spa

EATS

Toufayan Bakeries Fifty Years of Tradition, Family Values and Fanciful Baked Goods

EVENTS

Happenings Throughout The County

RESTAURANT GUIDE

A Resource for Your Dining Pleasure

LAST LAUGH

A New Year’s Revolution

The ‘Kneed’ To Know on Knee Arthritis

10 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

On The Cover - BC The Mag Fashion Director Candace Kristin and model Stephanie Damiano wish you ‘A Sweet New Year.’ Pictured, Stephanie takes a bite out of a donut by Glaze Artisan Donuts of New Milford while wearing jewelry from D’Amore Jewelers of Cliffside Park.

FASHION DESTINATION FOR PREMIER DESIGNERS IN-HOME PERSONAL SHOPPING PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE BOUTIQUE811.COM (201) 485-8650 811 FRANKLIN LAKE RD FRANKLIN LAKES NJ 07417

Bergen Volunteer Center Bergen Volunteer Center held their annual Hearts of Gold Dinner and Auction at The Stony Hill Inn in Hackensack. For more information, visit www.bergenvolunteers.org.

Joe and Nicole Chinnici

Janet and Sansae Sharma

Carolyn Myles, Marilyn Ticktin, Michele Ogden

Melissa and Gary Albrecht

2

James Brown, Andrea Parchment, Debbie Emery

Joellen Knie, Jennie Katsaros

Maria Ripoli, Judith Tucci, Arlene Friedman, Felicia Leibman Late Spring 2017

Sonja Clark, Gervonn Rice

Shelby Seidner, Tina Buonavita

Marianne and Bill Mullaney

Evan Swalling, Maureen Cameron, George Capodagli

Mayra and Dennis Sacco, Anne Marino

Mike Maron, Steve Mosser, Ron White, Dr. Adam Jarrett

Alyse Mihalik, Lisa Saxton

Mike Maron, Deborah Visconi

Ramya Elsaleh, Kimberly Malone

Mary Lyons-Kim, Amanda Missey, Lynne Algrant, Gervonn Rice

SPECIAL NEW YEAR’S DISCOUNT!

Join Valley Health LifeStyles

by January 31 and receive $50 off the enrollment fee and a special gift!

201-389-0839

Valley Health LifeStyles is a world-class fitness program designed to help you maintain the healthy lifestyle that’s right for you. Start the new year right – join today!

The LifeStyles fitness center includes: Q The medical fitness difference: qualified staff,

physician oversight, safe and meaningful outcomes Q Six-lane lap pool, warm-water therapy,

whirlpool and saunas Q Sports performance training and walking/

running track Q Rock climbing wall, group exercise studios,

gymnasium and state-of-the-art fitness equipment Q KidStyles fitness program and babysitting services

Valley Health LifeStyles 1400 MacArthur Blvd., Mahwah 201-389-0839 Membership Office Hours: M – F: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sat.: 8 a.m. – noon ValleyHealthLifeStyles.com

Fashion for Philanthropy Hackensack Meridian Health and The Shops at Riverside hosted a philanthropy event benefiting the John Theurer Cancer Center.

For more information, visit www.hackensackumc.org.

David and Alice Jurist

Mercedes Campa, Stacey Rudbart

Sharon Goldstein, Debbie Cangialosi, Donna Ebert

Jo Ann and Billy Cunningham

2

Ryan Collins, Claire Ward, Donna Warburton

Balpreet Grewal-Virk, Yogi Virk

Lisa Young, Mary and Nicole DeMatteo Late Spring 2017

Lucille and Robert Tassan

Debbie and Nick Cangialosi

Larry and Inez Inserra

Toni Matthews, Maria Carfello, Valerie Matthews

Jacqueline Laurita, Erriette Lenas, Melissa Landau

Dr. Stephen Percy, Helen Cunning, Dr. Andre Goy

Mark Sparta, Chris Wragge

Heather and Dr. Mingi Choi

Alice Lynch, Cindy Martins, Maureen McLaughlin

Lisa Dunn, Daphne Sidiropoulos, Sandy Tsamutalis

Fashion for Philanthropy Committee

f 4.00% b sp et J s 1.50% f s a 15-y r p ep y t, followed by 15-year repayment only period. Maximum line amount of $500,000. Line amounts over $300,000 may require title insurance at borrower’s expense.

Product aava vailable on 1-4 family owner-occupied dwellings in many NJ counties. A Ap ppraisal required showing a Maximum loan to value (LTV) of 75% ffo or lines up to $300,000; 70% fo for lines up to $500,000. Rat ate valid as of January 10, 2019. Adequatte property insurance is required. Flood insurance is required where applicab able. Other loan products, rates and terms are available. Subject to change without prior notice. Subject to all bank underwriting conditions. The bank is not responsible for any errors or misrepresentattions.

Englewood Health President’s Reception The Englewood Health Foundation held their President’s Reception at the Alpine Country Club in Demarest. For more information, visit www.englewoodhealth.org.

Todd Brooks, Mike Clarke

Liz and Michael Laginestra

Dr. Howie and Karen Liss

Ronald and Joanne Rollieson

Richard Kurtz, Jay Nadel

2

Barry Zingler, David Graf

Late Spring 2017

Clarice May, Steve Jacobson

Gayle and Harvey Chertoff

Michael Gutter, IJ Choi, Dr. Michael Harris

Kristin, Sarah and Warren Geller

Mark and Beth Metzger, Debra Albanese

Patricia and Mort Silverman

Tom Senter, Steven Rudnitsky

Marty Zaikov, Dr. Marc Argintenu, Lynne Zaikov

Kay Hadden, Pat Wilson, Tony Orlando, Susan Shanahan

Dr. Tom and Dr. Stephanie Bernik, Dr. Nimesh Nagarsheth, Warren Geller

John and Barbara Stabile, Donna and Dr. Steven Brunnquell

How Do You Improve The Quality Of Your Care?

The physicians at Bergen Surgical Specialists and Hackensack Vascular Specialists take care of all aspects of vascular and endovascular care.

That includes aortic disease and aortic aneurysms, carotid artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, thoracic outlet syndrome, dialysis and all aspects of venous disease.

•

Castle Connelly, Inside NJ Magazine, 201 Magazine, NY Magazine TOP DOCs for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery 2013-2018

•

Leaders in Endovascular Aneurysm repair, including Custom Fenestrated Stent Grafts, Thoracic Repairs and Iliac branched devices

•

First in Bergen County and a leading center in NJ for TCAR (Trans-Carotid Artery Revascularization)

•

Highest volume center in the tri-state area for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

•

Performing more peripheral interventions than any other practice in Bergen County

•

Our surgeons are more involved in numerous clinical trials to offer patients the most cutting edge technologies to treat aortic disease, peripheral vascular disease and venous disease.

Get To Know Surgeons Who Are RESULTS-ORIENTED, Patient-Centered and Technology-Driven.

www.BergenSurgicalSpecialistsPA.com Call (201) 575-4800

FRIENDS of Hackensack University Medical Center The FRIENDS program of HUMC held their sixth annual evening lecture at Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes. For more information, visit www.hackensackumc.org.

Jane and Frank Crotty

Susan Novie, Jerry and Linda Berlinger

Joan Hickey, Carmela Cimmino

2

Jill Bovino, Alise Biondi

Mark and Colleen Sparta

Denise Turrisi, Barbara Evans

Kavita Lala, Janice Czelusta

Arlene Flink, Deb O’Donovan, Francesca Flink Late Spring 2017

Cathy Napolitano, Salma Goldstein

Cindy Martins, Dr. Michael Kelly, Nancy Addis

Jim and Cathy Napolitano

Dr. Michael Kelly, Dr. Joseph Parrillo, Dr. Mark Anderson

Jason Kreitner, Helena Theurer, Dr. Michael Kelly, Colleen and Mark Sparta

Kevin and Belinda Alward, Dr. Greg Simonian

Cindy Martins, Helena Theurer

Stephen Stella, Emma Bernstein

Mark Sparta, Dr. Mark Anderson, Dr. Joseph Parrillo, Cindy Martins, Dr. Greg Simonian, Dr. George Batsides

Brunched by Corks and Forks Good Samaritan Hospital held their annual Corks and Forks event as a brunch this year at the Paramount Country Club in New City, N.Y. For more information, visit www.goodsamhosp.org.

Laura Weiss, Rochelle Acker

Anna and Dr. Mill Etienne

Joe Allen, Shawn Reilly

Dr. Seth and Kari Hurwitz

Tamer El-Rayess, Dr. Mary Leahy, Amra Sabic-El-Rayess

Mark and Tammie Pearson

2

Harold Peterson, Dr. Mary Leahy

Katie Loretan, Ellen Moskowitz

Dr. Cary Hirsch, Joseph Lagana, Gayle Hirsch, Joe Allen

Late Spring 2017

Ron and Angelique Schaem

Patricia Caneres, Anna Cortes

Drs. Mark and Kathy Medici, Dr. Maria, Arielle and Dr. Neal Shuren

Tara Cullen, Tammie Pearson, Jeff and Chris Nevin, Monica Damonti

Jesse Levin, Tamer El-Rayess, Amra Sabic-El-Rayess, Joanne Zornow

Gene Cortes, Ray Florida

Melissa and Mike Feltham, Ilene Gioseffi, Gerri DeSantia

Sharyn Bobroff, Stacy Edelman

Steve and Lisa Falone, Irene and Steve Tsetsekos

A DAY DEVOTED SOLELY TO YOUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING Nothing affects the quality of your life more than the quality of your health. All around you, at home and at work, people are depending on you to be at your best – and that requires good health and wellness.

At the end of the day, you and one of the program’s co-medical directors create an action plan to address any challenges and position you for better health. You leave with the confidence that you’re in command of your total well-being.

The Braverman Family Executive Wellness Program is designed to provide a comprehensive head-to-toe assessment and wellness evaluation, all in a single visit directed by a dedicated concierge.

IT’S TIME TO PROTECT YOUR MOST IMPORTANT ASSETS Good health is a win-win proposition. Your six-hour investment in yourself will empower you to make important decisions that can directly impact your future. And people depending on you will have peace of mind knowing that you’re taking good care of yourself.

From the moment you enter Englewood Hospital, your health is our center of attention. You are the sole focus of select physicians, nurses, therapists, and technicians. Your personalized itinerary of exams, lab tests, and consultations is arranged for the most efficient use of your time.

For more information on The Braverman Family Executive Wellness Program at Englewood Health, call 201-608-2355 or email bravermanwellness@ehmchealth.org.

THE BRAVERMAN FAMILY EXECUTIVE WELLNESS PROGRAM

The Valley Ball

Diane Frankel Hughes, Frank Hughes

Bart and Carol Grebowiec

Judy and Kathryn Baselice

Mike and Linda Leeder

2

Rachel and Dr. Antonio Lasorsa

Late Spring 2017

Dan and Elizabeth Walsh

Kimberly and David Cummings

Sandy Carapezza, Bettina Daly, Megan Fraser

Judy and Kathryn Baselice

Dr. Scott Agin, Audrey Meyers

Wayne and Marcie Wald

Bill Cobb, Carmel Falcone, Sally and Tony D’Ambrosio

Christina Cesarini, Casey Diestel, Diane Paulson

Mike and Diana Thompson, Rose Ranuro, Bill Lurz

Ken and Holly Madara, Holly and Chris Bormann

Matthew DeLuca, Katie Nagurka

Rob and Rashmi Angner

Samantha Kempin, Megan Fraser, Josie Bodino, Betty Ann Kempin, Ann Marie Leichman

The Valley Hospital held their annual gala at the Legacy Castle in Pompton Plains. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.

Theresa Reis, Matthew Spagnolo

Robin Goldfischer, Megan Fraser

Lisa and Charles Vannoy

Kathryn and Duane Sachs

Suzanne Gramuglia, Kasia Bohaterewicz

Jaime Cerritelli, Michelle Roberto

Meera and Karteek Bhavsar

April and Philip Toussaint, Donna Terzano

Margaret Nolan, Mary Jo Kurtz, Beth Stasyshyn

Ellen and Pierre Boisier

Ben Kornitzer, Jasmin Jose, Sean Healy

Denise Downey, Nancy Weiss

Sandy Carapezza, Anne Swist, Elaine Heimberger, Jean Meloro, Carol Gillespie

Mary-Catherine and Jim Bohan, Sandy and Angelo Carrapezza , Kathy and George Nardella

Ryann Cahill, Meredith Kresser, Scott Battles, Jessica Miller

Trish Clark, Kathy Garbaccio

Roger and Dana Van Voorhis

Ryan and Leeah DeVelez, Theresa Tontodonati, Miguel Perez, Margaret Nolan

Sharing Stories of HOPE and

ENCOURAGEMENT Wyckoff resident offers women-centric talk show

A

By Jennifer Peters

s an advocate for entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations, Marci Hopkins is truly a shining example of hope for trauma survivors while she takes the TV world by storm with her inspirational talk show “Wake up with Marci.�

The Wyckoff resident and newly found host has become the guiding light out of the dark for women who have suffered horrific tragedies and loss, through showcasing guests that have transformed their lives.

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Hopkins initially laid the groundwork for this platform on her Facebook Live show titled “Coffee with Marci.” This began as her way of giving back to the community while providing the chance for entrepreneurs and non-profits to speak out to the world, while also gaining exposure. Hopkins’ following gradually built in to a well-known and effective media channel through which guests were able to come to her for the creation of an edited piece of video content.

“I truly wanted to inspire the audiences. I was hoping the viewers would have something ignite inside of them from watching – something that would spark an action toward achieving their own personal dreams,” Hopkins, who recently hosted makeup artist and entrepreneur Trish McEvoy on a recent episode of the NJ-set national talk show Wake Up with Marci, said. The leading voice in beauty and founder and president of Trish McEvoy Cosmetics sat down for an exclusive interview with “Wake Up” host Hopkins at her signature spa in New York City and dished on all things beauty and health.

Hopkins was never a stranger to generously giving her time and heart to others. As a volunteer of the Christian Health Care Center and Julia’s Butterfly Foundation, a charity dedicated to improving lives of terminally and chronically ill children, she has made a career out of incorporating her devotion to helping others and living as a beacon of hope.

Eventually the Facebook Live show was dialed in with local moms as the vast majority of focus while her journey progressed in to television.

“Although Facebook was effective and interactive, I wanted to give the non-profits and entrepreneurs content that had more of a shelf life. The television show launched on Aug. 27 within over 200 markets on You Too America. In addition, there is also the chance to watch on digital streaming via a free app called NJ On Air,” she said.

With a love for acting throughout her early life and an extensive media background professional, Hopkins is as authentic as one can get in the world of hosts. She has the innate ability to deeply connect with not only her guest but also those watching. One recent show included a widow who lost her husband on Sept. 11, 2001. The widow endured further losses within a short time frame, including her job. The episode showcased her utter BC The Mag WINTER 2019 27

pain and suffering, yet it also shared her healing. The show is not only an opportunity to share pain. It also provides an inside look at the ways in women have taken something absolutely horrific and transformed it into

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something beautiful. This has been through giving back to the community, writing selfhelp books, guiding others through similar suffering, or simply allowing what most of us these days do not do – talk about it.

The women watching, who are either experiencing a tragedy now or struggling daily to overcome one, are able to see and feel on a more personal level that they are not alone and there is another chance at life. And, Hopkins is the key to unlocking that truth so that we can see, hear and feel this truth.

“I want all of the women out there to know that this stigma attached to them – whatever their story is, whatever they have survived – it does not define them,” she said.

“And no matter what stage of life they’re in or how old they are, it is never too late to not only heal, but to go after their dreams.”

Hopkins’ show can be watched on YouToo America on Mondays and Fridays at 6:30 a.m. You may also download NJ On Air, a free app available for IOS and Andriod, to watch episodes at any time. Be sure to keep up with Marci on Instagram (@wakeupwithmarci), Facebook (@wakeupwithmarcionyoutooamerica) and her website (www.wakeupwithmarci.com).

97 RIVERVALE ROAD RIVER VALE, NEW JERSEY 201.666.0444 FLORENTINEGARDENS.COM @FLORENTINEGARDENSNJ

Gala Honors Jackie Kates Geriatric Services Inc. and Brightside Manor held their Fall Gala honoring Jackie Kates.

For more information, visit www.seniorhousingservices.org.

Ellen Rand, Linda Lohsen

Jane Ellis, Kyung Hee Choi

Roz and Alan Hantman

David and Joan Berger

Linda and Larry Kates

2

Patty and Belen Puente

Late Spring 2017

Dan Leber, Jane Ellis

Roz and Steve Lemberg

Paul and Jacqueline Soames

John Lee, Thorn Ellerbe

Matt, Jacqueline and Dan Leber

Meredith Kates, David Fried, Jackie and Maya Kates

Ellen Rand, Jeremy Lentz

Elizabeth Davis, Matt Leber

Joyce Giddens, Mary Beth Hubbard, Lillian Lewis

Patricia Sottarelli, Michael Ventimiglia

Nicole Smith, Tracy and Neil Lenok, Hugo Medrano

A NETWORK OF CARE. As a member of Westchester Medical Center Health Network, we are better equipped to care for you.

With innovation, investment and improved access to Hudson Valley’s leading specialists, we’re proud to deliver expertise, experience and compassionate care — in the heart of our community.

GoodSamHosp.org

ART

Englewood Management Company

Ss In V

By Stefanie Sears

A

self-proclaimed backstage mom, performing artist Allison Williams Foster actually began managing her family members in the business 37 years ago as she herself was simultaneously performing in New York. She was ending the national tour of “Dancin’” as a Bob Fosse dancer and managed her husband Taj’s modeling career and son Amir’s acting career. After she moved to New Jersey, she opened a consultation company called Image Style and You, LLC in 2005 to help artists get their start in the business. In 2013, as a music manager, Foster changed the name of Image Style and You, LLC to I Style Music Management.

Based out of Englewood, I Style Music Management’s purpose is to take on clients and help these artists find and create work situations and develop their brands.

For Foster, having experience in the industry gives her an advantage to assist her clients.

“The fact that I was a performer just has that extra edge on it,” said Foster. “The reason why I opened up the management company is because I was a performer and I could be a gatekeeper, so to speak. Also, you don’t find many female managers, not for musicians, so I am really excited about that.”

Foster currently represents violinist Priya DeBerry as well as three others. DeBerry’s inspiration began when she was in second grade through discovering the Noel Pointer Foundation, which offers a free violin program for students. She also began playing trumpet at P.S. 44 and then in mid-

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dle school for Satellite Academy’s jazz band, but eventually realized that the violin was her sincere love because of its unique sound. She and her musical siblings, who all played string instruments, formed The DeBerry Quintet and together they performed throughout the tri-state area, including Lincoln Center and Madison Square Garden.

“Being able to play with my family and being surrounded by musicians that look like me and are from my background, it was really encouraging to have siblings and parents that support you,” said DeBerry.

Foster herself has quite the resume. She initially started out as a ballet dancer at the age of four and went on to attend the Professional Children’s School in New York. She eventually made make her Broadway debut as the Tornado Eye in the original run of “The Wiz,” starring Stephanie Mills. Though Foster has been featured on both stage and screen, she has found that she prefers stage productions because of the live audience feedback and occasional participation.

Several celebrities with whom Foster has worked and toured throughout her career include Stevie Wonder, Bobby Brown, Meli’sa Morgan, Christopher Williams, GQ, Randy Muller, Change, Kevin Ross, Chrisette Michele, Neyo and Ceelo Green.

She credits getting to know the King of Pop as a business figure one of her most memorable experiences as a dancer.

“My first time working with Michael Jackson was really exciting just to get to know him. He was such an incredible businessman and I learned a lot from him how to deal with people when they work for you because I watched how passionate he was about his business but how loving he was towards everybody that was a part of his work,” Foster said.

DeBerry mentions well-known names she holds in high regard in her field as well. Hiphop violinist Miri Ben-Ari and R&B violinist Damien E scobar are two of her idols who both happen to mix music genre styles into their performances. DeBerry finds herself following in their footsteps by also combining BC The Mag WINTER 2019 33

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musical genres and finding her own sound.

She does this by determining the keys and aligning the rhythm.

“I’m classically trained so I definitely have a classical background. However, as I got older, I began to play in church, so I had to learn how to improvise in addition to playing classical music and reading. The older I got I started getting invitations to play at weddings and different events, so I got more into R&B, hip hop, reggae, jazz and blues so as the years progressed I got very versatile and comfortable playing different genres of music,” she said.

As for the best advice Foster has ever given her, DeBerry answers, “to get myself out there and be more consistent.”

“I’m a very introverted person, and I like to stay in my comfort zone,” DeBerry said.

“That is a habit that I have. So I have to be consistent. I have to cope. People need to know about me. They need to know your material. If there is something I have to do, go for it. She also encourages me to sit down and really think about what I want and definitely pushing me in the right direction.”

And that she did. Though a musician throughout her lifetime, DeBerry graduated with a degree in both biology and public health from Brandeis University last year and now works as a child care provider and a biology teacher at Medgar Evers College Preparatory School in Brooklyn. During her school years and now in her professional life, she faces the challenge of balancing her interests in both the arts and sciences and determining her true passions.

Last June, DeBerry played the electric violin alongside two of Foster’s other clients, flautist “Notes” Overton and singer songwriter Daneik Ashley, at the Triad Theater in New York.

“If music was taken from me and I wouldn’t be able to perform music, that is something that would haunt me,” DeBerry said. “I would be okay with not being a doctor or pursuing a research career, but I wouldn’t be happy without music.”

Englewood Health Celebrates The Art of Healing Englewood Health and The Art School at Old Church in Demarest held a reception to celebrate health and the arts. For more information, visit www.englewoodhealth.org.

Ruth and John Plucinski

Patricia and Dennis Short

Dilek Ozler, Bill Nicolsi

Anne and Moses Groves, Phyllis Brown-Edwards

2

Anita DiGiulio, Ira Mendelsberg

Late Spring 2017

Assunta Trischka, Helene Cohen

Leslee Fetner, Adele Grodstein

Charlotte Clarke, Thea Batsides, Mary Ann Miller

Jeff Cagan, Pat Hart, Marcy Cagan, Kevin Hart

Diane and Mary Sedaris

John Tagliareni, Maureen Lostumbo

Gary Karlin, Jane Zamost

Phyllis Brown-Edwards, Lisa Vettoso, Linda Senter

Alda DeLorenzo, Debra Reed, Frank Ferrer

Ellen Eisenberg, Joan Katz, Brenda Erman, Judith Ennis

Ramsey-Based

Acadia Antlers Loves America’s Dogs Like Their Own

By Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo

I

t all started with a family vacation to Maine.

“I have to say that being a single mom and raising two boys on my own, I never would have anticipated running a family-owned business with my boys – Ryan (27) and Kyle (23),” recalls Carol Plescia of Ramsey.

But, Plescia is doing just that. The owner of Acadia Antlers, “America’s favorite moose antler dog chew,” according to the company’s website, Plescia is living a blessed life.

“It is a blessing to be able to share this journey with my boys,” she said. “One of the most important things for me, as their mother, was to make sure they got a great college education (both Ryan and Kyle are Ramapo College graduates) and that they have a strong work ethic. Currently, the boys still are a big help to me, while pursuing their own career paths in the work force.”

While vacationing in Acadia, Maine, Plescia got the idea to start a moose antler dog chew company.

“We had one goal: to sell the highest quality, best tasting moose antler dog chews available across the country,” she said. “Since we were in Acadia, Maine, we decided on calling the company Acadia Antlers.”

Early on, Ryan and Kyle were skeptics, Plescia admits, but they decided to go for it, and it’s a good thing they did.

Over the course of seven years, Acadia Antlers are sold in upscale neighborhood pet boutiques and have been featured in BarkBox, a dog subscription box service, and on DoggyLoot, a sales site for dog owners that offers discounts on dog-related products to members nationwide.

Currently, Acadia Antlers is sold across the country, thanks to their strong online website business that is driven by their loyal costumers and nationwide social media exposure and in stores such as TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Home Goods. Acadia Antlers has also been selected several times by The American Kennel Club Family Dog Magazine as one of their top product picks.

“Acadia Antlers is not just a job, it’s a constant adventure,” said Plescia, who still cuts every piece of antler they sell.

Plescia and Kyle traveled to Las Vegas to “pitch” Acadia Antlers directly to marketing guru and original Shark Tank “Shark” Kevin Harrington and fellow panelists at Super Zoo, a pet industry trade show. That pitch landed them a slot on Episode 6 of The Big Pitch, which aired in December of 2015 on the Fox Business Network, which goes to 80 million homes.

“We started out selling our moose antler dog chews at a roadside stand that was just minutes away from the entrance to the Acadia National Park,” said Plescia, reminiscing on her successes. “This gave us the tremendous opportunity to meet our customers personally and find out first-hand about their dogs’ chewing needs.”

Plescia learned dogs needed an all-natural healthy alternative chew that was low in calories and safe. Acadia Antlers are all-natural moose antler dog chews that are loaded with calcium and minerals. The long-lasting chews are durable and size-appropriate pieces hold up to power chewers when their “indestructible” toys do not.

“They’re non-splintering, hypo-allergenic and there is no mess or odor,” explains Plescia. “Dogs don’t chew through them; they gradually grind them down, so they serve as a great way to keep tartar and plaque off your dog’s teeth.”

Dog owners are perhaps familiar with rawhide, deer and elk chews. Rawhide, the most inexpensive offering, are typically filled with formaldehyde and sprayed with pesticides. They attribute to a higher rate of throat and mouth cancer in dogs, as well as being a choking hazard and causing blockages, said Plescia.

“Deer are the softest; elk is in the middle with porous marrow that the dogs dig out and moose is the densest so it is a much longer lasting chew,” she explained. “The best advice I can give is to research what you buy and to always supervise your pets while they are chewing. Always take any chew away from your dog when it is small enough to fit in their mouth, as it could become a choking hazard.”

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Since Acadia Antlers are naturally shed Maine moose antlers, Plescia sees these as the best option.

“Many people don’t know that moose naturally shed their antlers every year in the wintertime and grow new,” she said.

“Acadia Antlers are 100 percent cruelty free. No animals are harmed in the making of our chews. We do not buy antlers from hunted animals.

“We have worked hard to meet many of the shed gatherers in Maine and network across the state to be able to buy only the best quality Grade A antlers they can find,” continued Plescia. “Finding these sheds is a hard job that requires many, many people. Usually they start after the first snow falls. The leaves are covered with snow, and the tynes stick up and are easier to see. They hike the logging roads and travel deep into forests on ATVs and snowmobiles to gather them. Over the years, many have trained their dogs to help find them as well.”

Acadia Antlers recommends and sizes their antlers based on the weight of each dog. They offer sizes for dogs under 10 pounds all the way up to their most popular cuts – called Pitbull Pacifiers and Powerhouse Splits – for dogs over 70 pounds.

“I’ve been told that our Pitball Pacifiers have saved many living room sofas and shoes across the nation,” said Plescia of Acadia Antler’s product geared towards strong chewers.

Speaking of across the nation, United States Military Dogs from coast-to-coast and abroad are enjoying Acadia Antlers.

“Our family always believes it is important to give back,” said Plescia. “We work with great people – like Ron Aiello of the U.S. Working War Dogs, Frank Yevchak of Support Our Four-Legged Soldiers and groups like Tails of Hope Foundation – to get Acadia Antlers out to the working war dogs overseas in Afghanistan and Kuwait.

“We feel strongly that heroism should be recognized,” continued Plescia. “We have expanded our reach and now donate our antlers to retired military working dogs that are stateside as well and to police K-9s and other search and rescue dogs across the nation that work tirelessly to protect our citizens.”

Locally, Acadia Antlers are sold in Ramsey at Kathy Santo Dog Training, another small family-owned business.

“Small family businesses are the heart and soul of what this country was built on and we value that relationship,” said Plescia. “We’ve come a long way from our stand on the side of the road, and are proud to say Acadia Antlers are a great all-natural alternative to rawhide and other messy dog treats.

Acadia Antlers loves America’s dogs like they are our own.”

For more information about Acadia Antlers, visit their website at www.acadiaantlers.com, become a fan of them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AcadiaAntlers, follow them on Instagram at @Acadia_Antlers or email them at acadia.partners@hotmail.com.

Children’s Aid and Family Services Children’s Aid and Family Services held their annual fall fundraiser at the Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes. For more information, visit www.cafsnj.org.

Edith Fiato, Bari Bloch

Paulette Laurenzi, Linda Cennerazzo

Sherry Ann Brown Phillips, Heather and Shannon Lazare

Peg and Tom Kohli

Julia and Edith Fiato

2

Joanne Mandry, Tyler Mathisen

Christina and Michael Hayes

Late Spring 2017

Patrica Korn, Michael Mecca

David and Barbara Wasserman

Tim Gysin, Samantha Calamera, Rob Spampinato

Joanne and Dante Bellisari

Eileen Negrycz, Karin Vanuga, Holly Maschio

Luisa Gormley, Elaine Adler, Donna Kennedy, Rosalie Berlin

Lorraine and John Commerford

Yamini Naidu, Ravi Srinivasan

Joanne Mandry, Tyler Mathisen

Jim and Kim Freda

Dennis Martin, Maureen O’Connor-Martin, Masaki Arimura

FRIENDS of HackensackUMC FRIENDS of HackensackUMC held their 2nd annual Books with Friends event at the Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes. For more information, visit www.hackensackumc.org.

Amanda Krakowiak, Patricia Mortola

Stan and Mary Ellen Dziedzic

Ellen Hartgers, Arlene Flink

Geri Della Fave, Nancy Dillon

2

Brij and Kay Anand, Cindy Martins

Susan Hurwitz, Linda Polkow

Cindy Martins, Alise Biondi

Late Spring 2017

Barbara Evans, Cathy Napolitano

Loria and Chris Russo

Cindy Martins, Sandy Kissler, Stephanie Lench

Roseann Parr, Pat Ackershoek, Linda Huber

Simone Sandler, Candice Paxos, Linda Berlinger, Roz Strauss, Mary D’Andrea

Cindy Martins, Dr. Manisha Parulekar, Dr. Florian Thomas, Dr. Laurie Jacobs, Cathy Napolitano

Ria and Sandy Dinolfo

Lisa Zanowski, Ken Hartos

Pat Zimmermann, Charlotte Frey

Paul and Carmela Nicolardi

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Assisting ‘e Most Vulnerable Residents’ United Way addresses unmet needs through programs, resources

F

By Natalie Zisa

or Tom Toronto, being involved in philanthropy and non-profit organizations wasn’t something he considered a calling. But, when he was asked to help organize the United Way campaign at his university in 1982, it ended up being a lifelong commitment. Toronto is now president of Bergen County’s United Way, one of the largest charitable organizations in the community.

“I always had a sense that I wanted to do something that was mission driven, but what I liked about the United Way was that it had a business-like approach. It’s results oriented, but with a human dynamic.

It’s a happy marriage of business practice and helping people,” said Toronto.

BCUW’s commitment to assist “the 44 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

most vulnerable residents by developing programs and financial resources to address unmet needs” is carried out in multiple ways. About 12 years ago, the organization designed and implemented 21-1, a 24/7 hotline that serves the entire state of New Jersey. The goal of the hotline is to help someone in a crisis on a daily basis. There are instances like writing a check to help someone avoid eviction or pay an unexpected medical or car bill. Toronto calls it the “cord of last resort” to make sure no one falls through the safety net. But something that the implementation of the 2-1-1 hotline also did was open their eyes to more systemic problems within the area, such as affordable housing.

“As a result of the 2-1-1 system, we have a pretty keen insight as to what the challenges and human needs are. Not just in Bergen County, but across the state,” said Toronto. “Often people are in these situations because they’re paying too much to live here.”

Bergen United Way’s website states that “the affordable housing shortage profoundly affects more than 40 percent of the callers” to the 2-1-1 helpline. Armed with this information, they decided to focus their efforts on affordable housing projects or what they like to call, Housing Works.

“It doesn’t need to be studied anymore.

If you want to do something about it, the answer is to build more affordable hous-

Members of the Allendale VFW, pictured from left: Joseph Chinnici, Douglas Burgoyne, Jack Granowitz, Col. Richard Jackson, Erica West of Bergen County’s United Way, George Corniotes, Stiles Thomas and Ernest Cassidy.

ing,” said Toronto.

He explains that the first step of the process is to identify a piece of real estate.

BCUW works with government councils that have an interest in developing affordable housing in their communities. They currently have developments in Mahwah, Tenafly, and Allendale, with plans to build in Montvale, Fort Lee and more. They then organize the capital to purchase the property, though sometimes it’s deemed to them or donated by an individual.

When advertising the application, they follow something known as the Fair Housing Act, which was created to put an end to discriminatory practices in any activities related to housing. So, they must be affirmative in their marketing in order to create a robust applicant pool. From that, they check for income eligibility and more to “assure that they can live and thrive safely

and securely” in the developments, affirms Toronto. If they still have too many applicants, a third-party firm is employed to do a random selection process. Many of the BCUW’s projects are dedicated to housing the disabled and most recently, veterans.

Toronto shared, “Housing for veterans is a need that needs to be addressed.”

Though the federal government declared Bergen County as the first county in the state to eliminate homelessness among veterans in August 2016, Toronto is adamant that one way to make sure it doesn’t return is to ensure they have housing. With two special needs homes in Allendale, they’ve decided to build their first veterans’ Housing Works in the same community.

Liz White, mayor of Allendale, is proud of the partnership her town has with Bergen United Way.

“They’re wonderful, very committed and a very passionate group of people.

We’ve built up a great rapport and trust, so this third venture was really a no brainer,” she said.

Satisfied with the work her town has done, she continued, “We’ve always been in the forefront of providing affordable housing. The community of Allendale is extremely special and supportive of these projects. Allendale is a little unique than most other towns in New Jersey.”

By this she means they’re one of only six towns in Bergen County that was third round certified for their affordable housing obligation.

The Allendale VFW is another organization that has worked in collaboration with Bergen United Way on the veterans’ Housing Works. The VFW was able to raise a total of $3,000, presented at their BC The Mag WINTER 2019 45

A rendering of a new development project in Allendale.

Memorial Day Ceremony, towards the BCUW Housing Works projects.

“I’m saddened that there is a housing need for veterans and thankful to organizations – like the United Way – that decided to make a positive change in the community. Once the homes are built and veterans move in, we hope to connect with them to ensure needs are met and provide support if needed,” said Joseph Chinnici, a member of Allendale’s VFW. 46 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

Col. Richard Jackson and Stiles Thomas of the Allendale VFW at the most recent Memorial Day Ceremony. The VFW was able to raise a total of $3,000 towards Bergen County United Way Housing Works projects.

Toronto explained why Bergen United Way has been able to make such an impact with the implementation of their Housing Works developments.

“I think one of the reasons we’ve been successful is that we’ve managed to demystify what can be a complicated and confusing process for some municipalities.

We’ve found a way to make it easy and understandable, practical and doable,” he said. “As each project is completed, a neighboring town sees what we’ve built

and wants to create similar housing. It reinforces and is a testament to our ability to work well.”

And the work they’ve done in Allendale is a perfect example of that. To mayors in other communities that might be hesitant about implementing affordable housing projects, White says, “They’ve only made Allendale a richer community.

Embrace these people and the diversity that it brings. Just allow the specialness to develop.”

Members of the Allendale VFW, pictured from left: Joseph Chinnici, Douglas Burgoyne, Jack Granowitz, Stiles Thomas, Col. Richard Jackson, George Corniotes and Commander Ernest Cassidy.

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Holy Name Medical Center Foundation The Holy Name Medical Center Foundation held their annual Founders Ball at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York, N.Y. For more information, visit www.holyname.org.

Dr. Laszlo Fuzesi, Dr. Wendy Warren

Joshua and Jeanette Henne

Dr. Richard and Ameer Righthand

Mike Maron and the Unanue Family

2

Angelica Berrie, Mike Maron

Yuneui and Dr. Richard Joo

The Maron Family Late Spring 2017

Dave and Michelle DiPaolo

Greg Urra, Angelica Berrie, Oj Hofer

Joe and Gina Parisi

Charles and Sheryl Syby

Diane Maron, Theresa Lindsay, Gerry McCooey

Lou Meindl, Steph Nemerofsky, Michelle and Scott Niewiadomski

Mike Maron, Dr. Jacqueline Brunatti, Dr. Adam Jarrett, Sheryl Slonim

Rudy and Danielle Dermesropian, Ursula and Leon Temiz

Lisa and Anthony Sorrentino

Brian and Melissa and Lorraine and Jack Cahill

Sister Mindy McDonald, Sister Breda Boyle, Sister Maureen D�aurie, Sister Barbara Moran

Health and Wellness Your Post-Holiday

A

s the holidays disappear in the rearview mirror and lonely trees litter sidewalks, menorahs and other holiday swag get stuffed into closets and boxes and the spirit of 2018 starts to fizzle, let us breathe. Now, as we collectively dive into a new year, let us breathe once more. It’s easy to give in to the making of resolutions and personal revolutions and keeping up with the mania across social media. Some of it is so persuasive.

But, why not ask yourself what “you” want out of 2019? Who are you now? Who would you like to become? What is your reality? What are your dreams? What is your plan to begin to live them? For what are you grateful? What do you believe? Whom do you miss and long to spend more time with? Which 50 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

Checklist

By Stacie Rose

people, places or things make you radiate joy?

It’s a lovely time to allow yourself to think on these things. Pontification is underrated.

Intuition is an underused superpower. If you were to use yours, what might your intuition tell you? 2018 is water under the bridge. Perhaps it was a winner of a year. Maybe it was a doozy! Either way, it’s over. The only way to go is forward. So, here are some things to consider as you set sail for the New Year and prepare for a beautiful journey.

Be the Master of Your Own Ship.

It’s always good to remember, especially at the top of a new year, that you are the master of your destiny. Your choices will shape your life. Your intentions will help guide you on the right path. Get in touch

with those intentions and keep them in mind and close to you at all times. If you falter or lose your way, and your compass starts spinning, you can always get back by recalling your intentions or your Sankalpa. In yogic philosophy Sankalpa means “intention.” It’s your spiritual reason for doing what you do, and it can inform your body, mind and soul.

The best part is that you decide what your intentions are. They can change from week to week or remain the same. The important thing is that you determine what they are and follow your heart’s lead.

Go Slowly.

The world is fast, wired and things move at a “now, now, now” pace. Why not ease into the New Year with grace, grati-

tude and purpose? Having respect for the process of things can really help you feel more grounded and present. Each day is a process. Each moment is an opportunity to move, rest, learn, teach, do, be and blossom. There are infinite possibilities that come with a new year, a new day or even a moment, but if we are speeding by on the road that is life as if on the Autobahn, we miss the meaning, the metaphors and the beauty that is all around. We starve the world of our gifts when we move too fast.

Whether it is a smile, a laugh, a moment to listen to our loved ones, we cannot be present when we are always moving so fast.

Easing into something new is also a great way to give your system an opportunity to regroup, recalibrate and remember what is important.

Reclaim Your Health.

This is something you can start at any time, but there’s nothing like a holiday hangover to get you thinking about your health and the goals you hold dear. OK, so you’re up five pounds, feeling tired, maybe less than fit, not quite bikini ready or not even close. So what? Instead of self-deprecating and resolving to work out seven days a week until you look like Jennifer Lopez or drop doing it, why not self-appreciate instead?

For what can you be grateful?

Maybe you endured some tough times in 2018. Perhaps you had a baby and can marvel at your own strength. Maybe you completed a semester, a tough job or worked extra hard at a marriage or did your best under pressure. Look in the mirror and thank yourself for all your hard work, tenacity, courage, kindness and then start to write down those intentions. You probably need more greens and more water in your diet.

Everybody does. Maybe you really need to cut out the gluten, the greasy or packaged food because it doesn’t work for you. Perhaps you need to remind yourself to get outside and walk. Listen to your body. What does it tell you it needs? It knows the truth.

If you listen you will know, too.

Practice Self Care.

Booking a massage, a facial, some acupuncture or a yoga class does not make your selfish. These things fit nicely in the self-care category. If you don’t practice these rituals, no one is going to do it for you.

You’ve heard the sayings, “You can’t pour from an empty cup” or “You can’t love others if you don’t love yourself.” It’s really the truth. Take care of you and then you can take care of others. Or, take care of others first, but don’t forget to take care of you, too! You are going to be better at home, work and life in general if you feel good about yourself.

So, if it’s a weekly blowout, a mani/pedi, a few minutes of meditation, fresh flowers from the market, carving out quality time for a phone date with a friend or face-to-face time with people you enjoy, be good to yourself starting now.

Listen to Your Heart.

This seems obvious but so few of us actually follow our hearts or intuition. Most of us do what we feel is expected of us, or overextend ourselves. Assisting others is truly important and can actually help boost your health and sense of contentment, but not at your own expense. It’s a balance.

Stop saying yes to things you really don’t want to do. Start spending time with people that truly do make you feel happy, understood and loved. Make it a daily ritual as you begin the New Year. You will thank yourself.

Lower Your Expectations.

It’s a good time to pause and give things a break. Usually at the top of the New Year people make resolutions, seal their expectations of themselves and others and become greatly disappointed by February. 2019 may just be the year to ditch some of your expectations and be pleasantly surprised when things work out well. When we expect things to happen a certain way and they don’t, it can be terribly depressing. When we put unfair expectations on ourselves it can be awfully oppressing. Begin the New Year with a new mantra, “I will do what I can and not get hung up on the outcome.” There are too many variables in life to control. It’s not natural to force things or to know how everyone will act or expect people to do as we do and feel as we feel. Do yourself a favor and loosen the reigns on life. You just may get more than you ever wished for.

Sleep.

No one is advocating for you to sleep 2019 away, just to sleep enough hours at night that you actually feel rested when you begin each day. The winter months can be tough. Most of us

BC The Mag WINTER 2019 51

could simply hibernate until May, but there are places to go, people to see, work to be done and we’re all trying to make our mark, or at least get through the day. Without good sleep we can't do anything really well or enjoy doing it. Half the world is sleep deprived, cranky, underachieving and anxious.

So many ailments are linked to poor sleep habits. So, start the year thinking about how you might get more quality Zzzs. Maybe it’s meditation before bed, essential oils like lavender on your pillow, a bath, a book, a few minutes to reflect on your day, a cup of tea, some classical music or some deep breathing. Nightly rituals can be great for both kids and adults. Don’t skimp on sleep.

Your life depends on it.

Simplify.

We live in a “more, more, more” kind of world. Chances are you have accumulated too much stuff. It’s overwhelming! It may be time to purge. If you’re scared ( I know I am), use the throw away, put away, give away method. Throwing away things that are old, damaged or bad energy frees up space in your life for good things to come. Putting away things in

52 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

storage bides you time to decide which things are keepers.

Giving away things is a great way to lighten your load, lessen your mess and help others. There are so many people in need.

Parting with things that you are not appreciating or using will help your home environment and your headspace. Simplifying doesn’t just come down to your living space.

A new year is a new opportunity to make space in your heart as well. If there are people who don’t bring you joy, maybe it’s time to step away.

You can also simplify your meals. Start meal planning and meal prepping. Hire a health coach, or a house cleaner. Make your to-do lists reasonable. It’s ridiculous to think you can do three thousand things in a day.

Just because you can multitask your face off doesn’t mean you should. Being present with people you love can enhance your quality of life tenfold. Simplify your products.

Try going green. You might simplify your skincare with less toxic products. Think quality over quantity in every area of your life and notice how much better you feel.

Just Be You.

You’ve heard the expression, “Just be you because everyone else is taken,” right?

Ain’t it the truth? If you’ve been trying to be someone you’re not, or putting pressure on yourself to be perfect, make this the year that you stop that cycle of insanity because nobody is perfect – even if it looks like they are. They’re not perfect, and neither are you, so that takes the pressure off all that. Perfection is like a unicorn.

The vision is so fantastical, but it doesn’t exist.

Move on and make self-love a warm robe in which you warp yourself. The more you are “you,” the more you will attract the kind of people you need in your life and the better you will feel in your skin. So do what you love, and be with those who appreciate you for you. Worry less about what others think and you will feel more liberated and brighter all year.

Begin Again.

It’s true that a new year is a perfect time to start new, but what people forget is that each day is a chance to begin again. Every morning is a fresh opportunity to right your wrongs, forgive yourself, forgive others, do better, feel better or just be in the most authentic way.

New breath leads to new energy and new experiences. It’s as if you get a free do-over every day. Take advantage of that. If yesterday was steeped in negativity, make today positively positive. Smile. Breathe. Practice gratitude. Revel in joy. Call a friend. Help someone in need. Cry, if you must. Make peace. Give love. Make music. Eat better, dress better, or take a day off. Get some rest and have a cookie.

As 2019 gets rolling, remember that so much of life depends on your outlook, coping skills, the energy you send into the world and the way you treat yourself and others.

Remind yourself that the universe is on your side, that you’ve got this and when it feels like you truly don’t, just breathe in, breathe out and begin again.

Stacie Rose is a singer/songwriter, mother, producer, lover, blogger, integrative nutrition health coach, holistic lifestyle influencer and free spirit. She’s super passionate about making music, writing and helping others create sustainable wellness.

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26 P Paris aris A Avenue, venue, R Rockleigh, ockleigh, NJ 07647 07647

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MAKE RESERVATION TODAY! Y! AY! VAV TION TIA ION TODA AY! MAKEYOUR YOURRESER RESERVATION RESER TODAY! TION TION TODA Y! Go oowww.stjosephsevents.org .stjosephsevents.org or call 973.754.GIVE (4483) www ww .stjosephse www.stjosephsevents.org or call Gottotto .stjosephsevents.org 973.754.GIVE (4483) www .stjosephse Proceeds to benefit

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson, New Jersey

AL DENTE DIVA

Al Dente Diva’s

ROMANTIC VALENTINE’S DAY MENU TO COOK AT HOME Valentine’s Day is a holiday dedicated to celebrating the one you love.

Show your affection morning, noon and night with these easy Valentine’s Day inspired dishes that won’t break the bank.

On The Breakfast Menu:

Heart-Shaped Bacon This breakfast sandwich with heart-shaped bacon is a great way to kick off the holiday. Simply fold two pieces of bacon in half (vertically) and form into a heart shape.

Bake in a 400-degree oven for about 15 minutes. Place the bacon heart on top of your egg and cheese when serving.

On The Lunch Menu:

Specialty Pizza For lunch, surprise your honey with a specialty pizza just for them!

Cut the toppings into heart shapes (here I used pepperoni) and bake as directed on the package. This seemingly small gesture can make a big impact on your Valentine’s Day.

On The Dinner Menu:

Spaghetti You don’t have to be a chef to make a delicious dinner for your sweetheart. Sometimes, presentation is everything. Even a simple plate of spaghetti can be turned into a romantic meal if done correctly. Carefully arrange cooked spaghetti into a heart shape when plating. Top with tomato sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Now you have an easy, festive and delicious dinner to be proud of.

On The Dessert Menu:

Chocolate Covered Oreos These chocolate covered Oreos are the perfect light dessert after your special Valentine’s Day dinner. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwaveable safe bowl for one minute, or longer if the chocolate is not melted. Dip half the Oreo in the chocolate and cover with sprinkles.

Place on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Put them in the fridge for about an hour, or until the chocolate settles. Add a brownie that’s been cut with a heart-shaped cookie cutter and you’ve got an adorable dessert to end the evening.

With all the love shown throughout the day, you’re sure to make your Valentine feel special. Nothing says, “I love you” quite like being thought about.

Tara Ippolito-Lafontant is a long-time Bergen County resident and local foodie. This stay-at-home mom is the creator of Al Dente Diva, a page where she shares recipes, entertaining tips and cooking hacks with her followers. Visit her on Instagram (@AlDenteDiva) for a peek into her everyday culinary adventures.

BC The Mag WINTER 2019

55

Spring Lake Toys Foundation The Spring Lake Toys Foundation held their annual event at the Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes. For more information, visit www.springlaketoysfoundation.org.

Christine Lusardi, Francesca Sgambellone

Marilyn Garcia, Heather Maniscalco

Marci Hopkins, Vera Stern

Lauren Gross, Michele Loskant

2

Elaine and Maria Parian

Lisa Herrmann, Candace Kristin

Michele Iannone, Debbie Crispano, Ria Crispano, Pam Rosenthal Late Spring 2017

Linda Cennerazzo, Paulette Laurenzi

Kendra Jones, Lisa Lieberman-Wang

Kara Veenstra, Cienna Ryu

Mina Castillo, Jumana Chalabi, Hilda Hartounian

Susan Firman, Olivia Nassr, Minas Konstantinou, Christine Oh

Eliana Seigel, Mina Castillo, Sylvia Buzantian, Katia Buchakjian, Christine Norflus

Anne Goodman, Melissa Rubenstein

Vivian Kelly, Lisa Sku

Irina Ruby, Tracy Kloock

Julie Costello, Bonnie Ufferfilge, Rachel Reiner, Kimberly Vasgersian, Vanessa Krumholtz

St. Joseph’s Health Foundations The St. Joseph’s Health Foundations held their annual gala at The Rockleigh in Rockleigh.

For more information, visit www.stjosephshealth.org.

Drs. Mark and Lynne Rosenberg

Ashley Venturino, Tyler Keshel

Amy Dupuis, John Andrews

2

Stephanie and Robert Budelman

Corinne and Rich Myslinski

Katie Summerville, Dr. Donna Konlian

Eileen, Dr. Robert and Christina Amoruso

Bob and Dawn Currie

Dr. James LaBagnara, Kevin Slavin

Late Spring 2017

Tom and Janine Casey

Jackie Kierce, Meghan Mitchell, Kelly Allinger

Dr. Arash and Parand Emami

Dr. Michael and Anastasia LaBagnara, Kathy and Dr. Michael DeLisi

Kassandra Kayal, Peter Goljan, Martha Jones, Kaci and Craig Wright

Tabish Rizvi, Dr. Maliha Ahmad

Dr. James and Corinne LaBagnara

Margaret Nolan, Aaron Pell

Jonathan Yun, Jackie Ciccolella, Jonathan Parisi

FASHION

Photographer: Nick Gagliano, Studio Uno Photography, Ridgefield Park Stylist: Candace Kristin, Westfield Garden State Plaza Style Assistant: Sarah Hansson

Model: Stephanie Damiano

Makeup: Alexa Mele, Alt Beauty

by Alexa Rae, Ho Ho Kus

Hair: Haley Muoio, Eric Alt Salons

Jewelry provided by: D’Amore Jewelers, Cliffside Park Devon Jewelers, Wyckoff LaViano Jewelers, Westwood The Timepiece Collection, Englewood Sweet treats provided by: Glaze Artisan Donuts, New Milford Mr. Cupcakes, Oradell We Knead the Dough, Garfield

Want a bite?

Rings from Devon Jewelers of Wyckoff; Donut by Glaze Artisan Donuts of New Milford.

There’s nothing like that first bite of a donut from Glaze Artisan Donuts of New Milford. Here, Stephanie spotlights jewelry from D’Amore Jewelers of Cliffside Park.

BC The Mag WINTER 2019 59

What’s more appealing – the jewelry from D’Amore Jewelers of Cliffside Park or the cupcake

by Mr. Cupcakes of Oradell?

It’s a toss up for BC The Mag!

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream and jewels from D’Amore Jewelers of Cliffside Park.

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Take your sweet time deciding which watch – the Hublot or Breguet – from The Timepiece Collection of Englewood to add to your jewelry box.

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Stephanie couldn’t resist the frosting on this cupcake by Mr. Cupcakes of Oradell.

Here, she’s wearing jewelry from D’Amore Jewelers of Cliffside Park.

Bubbling with jewelry from Devon Jewelers of Wyckoff.

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Eeny, meeny, miny, moe – The sprinkle donut by Glaze Artisan Donuts of New Milford wins.

Jewelry from Devon Jewelers of Wyckoff.

Dessert with a side of accessorizing is served. Jewelry from Devon Jewelers of Wyckoff; Cupcakes

by Mr. Cupcakes of Oradell.

It’s cupcake time. Pictured, Tag Heuer watches from The Timepiece Collection of Englewood and cupcakes from Mr. Cupcakes of Oradell.

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The jewelry from LaViano Jewelers of Westwood and these cookies from We Knead the Dough of Garfield go together like milk and cookies.

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Do you have time to enjoy these donuts by Glaze Artisan Donuts of New Milford?

Also pictured, Longines, GlashĂźtte and Oris watches from The Timepiece Collection of Englewood.

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Life is better with ice cream and sparkles.

Pictured, a Bulgari watch from The Timepiece Collection of Englewood and jewelry from LaViano Jewelers of Westwood.

Sprinkle your jewelry box with a Chopard watch from The Timepiece Collection of Englewood and jewelry from LaViano Jewelers of Westwood.

Also pictured, cupcakes from Mr. Cupcakes of Oradell.

Hackensack University Medical Center Presidents’ Reception Hackensack University Medical Center held their annual Presidents’ Reception at the Joseph and Pam Simunovich Palm Court. For more information, visit www.hackensackumc.org.

Lisamarie Volino, Dr. Michael Gross

Helen Cunning, Hillary Nierenberg

Diane Aroh, Fletch Creamer Jr., Anne Goodwill-Pritchett

Dr. Yair Kissin, David Sanzari

2

Dr. Mark Schlesinger, Terri Freguletti

Colleen and Mark Sparta, Dr. Joe Parrillo, David Sanzari

Harry Gates, Dr. John Apovian, Michael McGeary, Dr. Thomas Bellavia

Dr. Donald McCain, Thomas Leyhane, Dr. Dante Implicito

Late Spring 2017

Dr. Ihor Sawczuk, Dr. Michael Harris

Joe Burt, Rudy and Pepi Garcia

Marty and Pat Kafafian

Claire Ward, Dr. Peter and Reggie Gross

Mark and Colleen Sparta

Alice Jurist, Sharon Lee Parker

Dr. Jeff Boscamp, Dr. Yuki Kimora, Adeline and Frank Fekete

Jimmy and Caryl Kourgelis, Jerry Decrosta

Dr. Ihor Sawczuk, Helen Cunning, Colleen and Mark Sparta

The Valley Hospital Auxiliary The Franklin Lakes Branch of The Valley Hospital Auxiliary held their annual holiday boutique. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.

Nancy Weiss, Linda Wasserstein

2

Linda Gugger, Enza Rossi

Anne Gaugler, Joan Bohan

Agnes Taub, Paula Stark

Mercedes Coto, Barbara Heitmann

Irene Becker, Janet Talercio

Cathleen Foster, TJ Fama

Maureen Smith, Linda Cennerazzo

Late Spring 2017

Linda Leeder, Elaine Heimberger

Karen Haruthunian, Jackie Kobes

Kathy Azzara, Barbara Norton, Carol Zielinski

Julie Priore, Tara Durst, Lorrie Recine

Paulette Laurenzi, Patricia Mortola, Amanda Krakowiak, Lisa Annese

Tina Chirnomas, Dorothy Bell, Carol Baskinger, Linda Sampson

Bettina Daly, Sandy Carapezza

Lee Jenkins, Charlotte Byrne

Linda Contreras, Cathy Teitel, Ann Mastri

Swap Your

Beauty Products For Winter

By Kristin Favaloro

Chapped lips. Hair full of static. Dry cracked skin.

Winter isn’t always a glamorous time. However, if you make these easy swaps or add these products to your arsenal, you’ll keep glowing from head-to-toe.

Muah Makeup Overnight Recovery Sleep Mask & Treatment

One of my favorite local makeup boutiques has come out with another amazing product.This rich and creamy mask stays on overnight and is packed with tons of goodness. You wake up with soft and glowing skin. Available at Muah Makeup & Lash Bar, Westwood.

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Allyson Rubin Cosmetics Chantalle Lip Kit

New Jersey-based makeup artist Allyson Rubin created her cosmetics line with her love for animals in mind. Her entire line is vegan- and cruelty-free. I love this lip kit because it is the perfect pinky nude, and the packaging is so fabulous. Available at allysonrubincosmetics.com.

Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Toner

Perfect to soothe dry winter skin, this toner, which contains real rose petals, soothes and hydrates your skin while minimizing your pores. It is the perfect step to add to your morning routine for some extra hydration. Available at Blue Mercury, Closter.

Sente Dermal Contour Pressed Serum

I was introduced to this line by one of my favorite dermatologists, and I love it. It helps to restore volume and elasticity to your skin and also adds in extra moisture. After one week of use I see a huge difference in my skin already.

Available at Skin, Laser and Surgery Specialists of NY & NJ, Hackensack.

Not a Perfume

by Juliette Has A Gun

This is one of my favorites by this line.This is perfect for those people who dislike or don’t even wear perfume. It has a very light clean smell that people seem to love and will constantly be asking you what you are wearing.

Available at Indigo Chic Boutique, Closter.

Briogeo Superfoods Hair Pack

I have shared other products from this line before; it really is amazing. This is the perfect duo for your wintertime hair. This nutrient rich duo gives life to parched dull hair and I love that it is a natural line free from parabens and sulfates.

Available at Sephora, Paramus.

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Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion

I have been really into K-Beauty and 10-step skincare routines (yes, I said 10) and this is perfect for winter skin. It locks in moisture and really changes the overall feel of your skin. It is amazing and under $20!

Available at yesstyle.com.

Borghese Rinfrescante Sugar Body Polish

I love a good exfoliator in the wintertime, and this one is amazing. It is a very gentle exfoliant so it is perfect for sensitive skin. It leaves me smooth and glowing. Available at Lord & Taylor, Paramus.

KMS Hairstay Anti-Humidity Seal

Travel Makeup Bag

I love to carry all my makeup in something cute and these little travel bags are perfect.

Available at Boutique 518, Allendale.

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I don’t know about you, but in the winter my hair is always full of static. This product protects your hair for up to 72 hours from that annoying static we all seem to get in the colder months. Available at Changing Heads Salon, Northvale.

Kristin Favaloro is a Jersey girl with a serious makeup and skincare obsession. Follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pg/ beautyandtheburbsnj or visit her blog at www.beautyandtheburbsnj.com to discover all that Bergen County has to make a beautiful you. Have a product you’d like Kristin to check out? Email her directly at beautyandtheburbs201@ gmail.com.

ERIC ALT

SALON

HOUSE OF BLONDE SADDLE RIVER | 201.438.0900

THE BERGEN SKINNY

Get The ‘Skinny’ ON BERGEN COUNTY:

s e u l B r e t Win  i t i d E

T

By Michelle DeSantis

he winter blues – the days are short, the weather is brisk and all the holiday cheer is gone. Between Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanza, all the fun is over and now we are stuck with sunsets at 4:30 p.m. and temperatures in the teens. Don’t get caught up in the dreary winter.

I’m here to give you tips and tricks how to beat the winter blues.

Pick up a winter sport.

I learned how to ski when I was really young, so I always looked forward to the winter months. There are multiple ski resorts near Bergen County, such as Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon Township and Campgaw Moutain and Ski Area in Mahwah. However, if you don’t want to take the time to learn to ski or snowboard, these locations also have the option for snow tubing. Take a long weekend! You can also take a long weekend and head to Upstate New York or Vermont. Mount Everest in Westwood has the best gear for winter sports. Bonus, if you shop there, they sometimes will give you a free day-pass to Mountain Creek.

Wear bright colors.

I am a sucker for all black and oversized sweaters in the winter, but as soon as the spring hits, I’m all about the color. There is no actual study around my theory that wearing color puts you in a better mood, but – for me – a little pop of color and putting some thought into my outfit makes all the difference.You can still wear that black oversized sweater, but maybe pair it with a colorful scarf or bright lip color. Suite 201 in Ridgewood has so many options to mix and match your wardrobe.

build up of toxins. The infrared light creates a natural resonance that helps with detoxification, weight loss, pain management, cardiovascular health, skin purification and stress reduction. On top of all of this, the infrared sauna boosts your body’s metabolism and burns up to 600 calories every session.

Plan something to look forward to.

The high of hanging with your friends and family during the holidays are over. There are no more Friendsgivings, ugly sweater parties or Hallmark movies. There aren’t too many events going around this time of year, so plan something to get excited over. Whether it is a vacation or dinner with friends, you can always count down the days until it happens.There are a bunch of new restaurants that recently opened in Bergen County, one being Lefkes in Englewood Cliffs. Plan a dinner party with some friends at this trendy new Greek restaurant.

Get some Vitamin D.

Without basking in the sun, most of us don’t get enough Vitamin D in the winter. Besides taking a vitamin, I turn to NU Image Med Spa in Paramus to help me through the rough winter. We are often exposed to many different toxins during the colder months that break down your body and makes us sick. NU Image has an infrared sauna pod that cleanses your body and removes the

Michelle DeSantis is a Bergen County girl who lives, breathes, eats and sleeps Bergen County. Founder of the blog, The Bergen Skinny, Michelle is determined to find the best food, fitness, fashion and entrepreneurs in the area. Check her out at www.thebergenskinny.com.

‘What’s In Your Bag?’ Beat Your Beauty Winter Woes With These Products

By Kristin Favaloro

O

ne of my favorite features in my fashion magazines has always been the one that highlights what celebrities are carrying in their bags on a daily basis. Call me curious, but I love to know what other people “can’t live without,” especially when it comes to beauty products.With that in mind, I decided to ask some cool and fashionable Bergen County girls my favorite question:What’s in your bag?

Michelle DeSantis

A former NFL cheerleader, Michelle DeSantis is a Bergen County girl who lives, breathes, eats and sleeps Bergen County. Founder of the blog The Bergen Skinny, Michelle is determined to find the best food, fitness, fashion and entrepreneurs in the area. Check her out at www.thebergenskinny.com.

• KIND Bar: “I’m always running around town and don’t know when or if I’ll have time to sit and eat a meal. I always carry a peanut butter chocolate chip KIND bar in my bag so I don’t get ‘hangry!’”

• Portable Phone Charger: “I am always on my phone. Whether it’s on a phone call or social media, my phone is always dying. My portable phone charger saves the day when I’m on-the-go and don’t have time for a charge.”

• MAC Lipstick in Faux: “There is always some sort of MAC lipstick in my bag. Right now, my color is Faux.”

• Invisibobble Traceless Hair Ring: “I try to workout 5-6 days a week and sometimes it’s hard to fit it in. Most of the time, I am running from the gym to a meeting, so I always have my Invisibobble Traceless Hair Ring to keep my hair fresh without a hair tie bump.This way, I don’t look too disheveled going into my meeting.”

Alexandra Reilly

Creator of her own FEMPIRE: LadyBoss Global Media and LadyBoss Beginnings,Alexandra Reilly, of Montvale, is a spirit-led entrepreneur that started one her first businesses at 18 years old. It is her mission and purpose to inspire and motivate women to live at their highest potential spiritually and in business. She believes every woman has the right to building their own FEMPIRE and to becoming financially free while living in their purpose.

• Morphe Matte Lipstick in Honey: “In my opinion, this is the perfect cool tone brown/grey nude. It’s a favorite of mine, especially with my green eyes and blonde hair.”

• Muah Makeup & Lash Bar’s Noir Black Gel Eyeliner: “This eyeliner is the best eyeliner I have ever used, and I’ve

tried a lot. It’s the darkest black I’ve found and it does not bleed. It goes on so smoothly. I just can’t live without this in my makeup bag.”

• Scentbird Perfume: “Scentbird has been the best way of trying out different perfumes without committing to $80 bottles that just collect dust on my shelves.”

• Whole Foods Lip Balm in peppermint: “It’s a lifesaver in between my days of wearing three lipsticks to achieve that perfect pout.”

Jennifer Aydin

Coming from a traditional Turkish background, Jennifer Aydin has always put her family first. She is a mother to five children ranging from 5 to 13 years old and is happily married to a successful plastic surgeon. But as Jennifer’s youngest child is about to enter school, Jennifer finds herself ready to break out of her traditional role as homemaker and mother, challenging the roles she and her husband have subscribed to for their entire relationships. And when Jennifer helps to arrange her brother Michael’s marriage to a family friend in Turkey, she is unprepared for the backlash she faces from some of the ladies who find it difficult to accept her less than modern ways. Catch her on The Real Housewives of New Jersey.

• Mac Oil Powder: “I have oily skin so the powder takes away the shine on my face.”

• Chanel Sunglasses: “I am obsessed with Chanel so my sunglasses always puts together any outfit.”

• Kylie Matte Lip Kit in Coco: “This is a great go-to universal color. It works

with every look I wear.”

• Winter Candy Apple Lotion: “I get dry in the winter so it is always good to have a lotion in my bag. The smell is intoxicating and people always compliment me.

You can only get the lotion during Christmas time so I stock up on it (10-15 bottles, at least!).”

Charli Jade Goldstein

Charli Jade Goldstein is an 11-almost-12-year-old student who has a passion for fashion, makeup and skin-care. Charli has an amazing Instagram account (@charlijadechic) and a blog (https://charlijade1.wixsite.com/charlijadechic). Her motto has always been,“If you look good, you feel good” and she makes a point to get dressed in a fabulous OOTD (Outfit Of The Day) every morning to make sure that she is successful in all aspects of her life.

• The Bath and Body Works In the Stars Body Cream: “The In the Stars Body Cream makes your body and hands super soft. It smells so delicious that people substitute it for perfume. Personally, I use it on my hands most often, especially during the cold winter months because it keeps them soft, silky and young.”

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Moon Jelly Lip Gloss: “My favorite gloss is the

Moon Jelly Lip Gloss. This holographic color adds an extra sparkle and it matches with everything! It is so easy to throw on wherever you are going, such as school, dance, parties, the gym and work.

Along with everything else it does, it also nourishes the lip and is for all ages.”

• Grab and Go Hair Tie: “This Grab and Go Hair Tie is on me at all times – whether in my hair, on my wrist or in my bag. It gives you the perfect high pony or bun and never leaves a crease. When you aren’t using this hair tie in your hair, you can use it as a bracelet. It comes in so

many different colors that you can match it with your hair or your OOTD.” • Rosewater Mario Badescu Spray: “The rosewater facial spray is so hydrating that it will wake you up and make you feel refreshed in the morning.

If you get tired throughout the day, you can even spray it 1-2 times on your face and you will definitely feel refreshed. I also like to bring this when I go on an airplane or on the camp bus because it gives me a little boost! It comes in all different sizes so it fits any of your bags. This product happens to smell amazing too.”

Kristin Favaloro is a Jersey girl with a serious makeup and skincare obsession.

Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc.

Whiskers & Tails Dinner

&

Casino Night

May

15

th

2019

Doors Open at 6:30 pm The Estate at Florentine Gardens 97 Rivervale Road, River Vale, NJ 07675

Enjoy an evening of great food, cocktails, music, dancing and a chance to win at the tables.

Festivities also include a silent auction, wine pull, 50/50 and great prizes for casino winners.

Buy tickets at: rbari.org/wtdinner $150 per person (includes $50 in casino chips)

Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc. is the leading no-kill animal shelter in Northern New Jersey, dedicated to the humane treatment of companion animals, and their care and rehabilitation until they can be adopted into loving homes. A 501(c)(3) organization, RBARI relies entirely on donations and grants.

STYLE WITH SONECA

The Truth About

‘Fast Fashion’

By Soneca Guadara

H

ave heard the phrase “fast fashion?” It’s a phrase that is being used more and more frequently. Think Balenciaga-inspired sock boots at $40 and “Gucci-esque” outfits for a mere $50. It’s a term used to describe contemporary fashion from the catwalk to your fingertips at a fraction of the cost. Thanks to stores such as Zara, H&M, Target, Gap, etc., fast fashion copies high-end designer looks and turns them around quickly. For instance, take the Oscars, you can obtain the same looks the celebrities wore on the red carpet within two weeks for a fraction of the cost. Just like the term fast food, there is fast fashion.

Today, we live fast paced lifestyles that didn’t necessarily exist 20-25 years ago.

Some of this is due to technology and the

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fact that more households have both parents/partners working. People today don’t want to wait. Today’s generation wants it now. With the rise of social media and everybody wanting to look like a celebrity, fast fashion allows people that affordable edge.

Affordability means financial accessibility. Affordable versions of those lusted must-have designer pieces are available both online and in stores. As great as fast fashion sounds and is, it also poses some serious questions we need to ask ourselves.There are some serious impacts that most people are unaware of. For instance, with fast fashion comes labor exploitation and texture waste. No one is thinking about the negative effects fast fashion has. Instead, we are all gushing over how remarkably similar the garment looks

to the Balmain dress Chrissy Teigen wore and how we, the consumer, can afford to buy it for only $69.99. Because we can afford to buy fast fashion at such a low price, more and more clothing is being bought.

Sadly, more and more clothing is also being

thrown out and dumped into landfills every year.

Now, the bigger problem here is that in order for these manufacturers to be able to keep costs down, sustainable fabrics (fabric that is made from natural fibers) are not being used but instead synthetic fabrics that never disintegrate are being used. Synthetics contribute to global warming because they release gases, such as methane, as the fabrics decompose.

Fast fashion also contributes to labor exploitation. Unlike the fashion calendar that models after the four seasons, fast fashion is producing clothes every four to six weeks. In order to make this clothing quickly and affordable, the clothing is being manufactured overseas in countries such as Cambodia and Bangladesh. Unlike the U.S., there are no labor laws protecting the employees. These workers get paid as little as 12-18 cents an hour and work in poor working conditions as well.

Because the majority of the clothing is synthetic, the chemicals are giving off harmful gases that many of the laborers inhale and go on to die. Child labor is also on the rise and the hours are non-stop.

So, what can we do to make the public more conscious and thoughtful in our purchases?

Consider shopping at vintage and consignment stores. It’s a great way to recycle and find designer duds at a fraction of the cost. Save up to buy the real deal. Don’t feel tempted to buy that Valentino look-alike outfit. Find a good tailor and mend what you already have or consider repurposing. Less is more; there’s no reason to buy every fashion craze you see. If possible, shop at ethical and eco-friendly brands. Together we can help save our planet and those people in underprivileged countries being targeted to mass-produce. As the saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child.” Well, the same goes to promoting sustainable fashion.

If you want to know more about how to become sustainable, visit my website at StyleBySoneca.com.

Soneca Guadara is a personal fashion stylist who makes her clients feel beautiful and confident. When Soneca is not working her magic assisting her clients, she can be found working backstage at New York Fashion Week, working on location shoots and contributing as an on-air fashion/style expert and style writer. You can follow Soneca on her Instagram (@stylebysoneca) for weekly style tips.

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THE SPORTS DOCTOR

The ‘Kneed’ To Know on

KNEE ARTHRITIS

By Dr. Michael Gross

A

pproximately 9 million Americans currently battle with arthritis of the knee, in one form or another, on a daily basis. While there is no “cure,” effective treatment aims to reduce pain, stiffness, swelling and restore function.

There are three basic types of arthritis that may affect the knee joint.

Osteoarthritis, commonly known as wear and tear arthritis, is a condition in which the natural cushioning between joints – cartilage – wears away. When this happens, the bones of the joints rub more closely against one another with less of the shock-absorbing benefits of cartilage.

The rubbing results in pain, swelling, stiffness, decreased ability to move and, sometimes, the formation of bone spurs.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. While it can occur even in young people, the chance of developing osteoarthritis goes up after age 45. Ac86 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

cording to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 27 million people in the U.S. have osteoarthritis, with the knee being one of the most commonly affected areas.

Women are more likely to have osteoarthritis than men.

Knee arthritis symptoms tend to progress as the condition worsens. What is interesting about knee arthritis is that symptoms do not always progress steadily with time. Often patients report good months and bad months or symptoms that fluctuate with the weather. This is important to understand because comparing the symptoms of arthritis on one particular day may not accurately represent the overall progression of the condition.

The most common symptoms of knee arthritis are pain with activities; limited range of motion; stiffness of the knee; swelling of the joint; tenderness along the joint; a feeling the joint may “give out;”

and deformity of the joint (knock-knees or bow-legs).

Evaluation of a patient with knee arthritis should begin with a physical examination and X-rays. When possible, these X-rays should be done standing and weight bearing. In the majority of patients with OA, an MRI is not necessary.

X-rays can serve as a baseline to evaluate later examinations and determine progression of the condition.

If you have osteoarthritis of the knee, you can take advantage of a wide range of treatment options. The effectiveness of different treatments varies from personto-person. The purpose of treatment is to reduce pain, increase function and generally reduce your symptoms. Patient satisfaction is a fundamental goal in treating osteoarthritis of the knee. Treatment of knee arthritis should begin with the most basic steps and progress to the more involved, possibly including surgery. Not all

treatments are appropriate for every patient, and you should have a discussion with your doctor to determine which treatments are appropriate for your case.

In its early stages, arthritis of the knee is treated with nonsurgical measures.

Nonsurgical treatments fall into four major groups: lifestyle modifications; exercise; supportive devices; and medications.

knee. A brace can assist with stability and function. There are two types of braces that are often used. An “unloader” brace shifts load away from the affected portion of the knee. A “support” brace helps support the entire knee load. In most studies, the knee symptoms improved, with a decrease in pain on weight bearing and a general ability to walk longer distances.

teract with other medications you are taking, such as blood-thinners. Be sure to discuss these issues with your orthopedist or primary physician.

A potent type of pain reliever is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, known as NSAIDs. These drugs, which include brands such as Motrin, Advil and Aleve, are available in both over-the-counter

Lifestyle Modification

Lifestyle modifications can include losing weight, switching from running or jumping exercises to swimming or cycling and minimizing activities that aggravate the condition, such as climbing stairs.

Many, but not all, people with osteoarthritis of the knee are overweight. Simple weight loss can reduce stress on weight bearing joints, such as the knee. Losing weight can result in reduced pain and increased function, particularly in walking. It has also been shown that activity modification, and especially weight loss, is really the only method that actually slows down the progression of arthritis.

Exercise

Exercises can help increase range of motion and flexibility as well as help strengthen the muscles in the leg. Physical therapy and exercise are often effective in reducing pain and improving function.

Your physician or a physical therapist can help develop an individualized exercise program that meets your needs and lifestyle.

Supportive Devices

Using supportive devices, such as a cane, wearing energy-absorbing shoes or inserts, or wearing a brace or knee sleeve can be helpful. Some research studies have focused on the use of knee braces for treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. They may be especially helpful if the arthritis is centered on one side of the

"Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis.

While it can occur even in young people, the chance of developing osteoarthritis goes up after age 45."

Drug Treatment

Several types of drugs can be used in treating arthritis of the knee. Because every patient is different, and because not all people respond the same to medications, your orthopedic surgeon will develop a program for your specific condition.

Over-the-counter medications can include aspirin, acetaminophen, naproxen or ibuprofen to help reduce swelling in the joint. Simple pain relievers, such as Tylenol, are available without a prescription and can be very effective in reducing pain. Pain relievers are usually the first choice of therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee. All drugs have potential side effects and simple analgesics are no exception. In addition, with time, your body can build up a tolerance, reducing the effects of the pain reliever. It is important to realize that these medications, although purchased over-the-counter, can also in-

and prescription forms. Like all pain relievers, NSAIDs can cause side effects including changes in kidney and liver function as well as a reduction in the ability of blood to clot. These effects are usually reversible when the medication is discontinued.

Glucosamine and/or Chondroitin

Glucosamine and/or chondroitin sulfate may be particularly helpful in the early stages of osteoarthritis of the knee, provided they are used as directed on package inserts and with caution. Although glucosamine and chondroitin sulBC The Mag WINTER 2018 87

"Approximately 9 million Americans currently battle with arthritis of the knee on a daily basis."

Viscosupplementation with Hyaluronic Acid

fate are natural substances, sometimes classified as food additives, they can cause side effects such as headaches, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and skin reactions. These supplements can interact with other medications, so keep your doctor informed about your use of them.

These substances can help reduce swelling and tenderness, as well as improve mobility and function. If you decide to take this therapy, it is important not to discontinue too soon. At least two months of continuous use is necessary before the full effect is realized.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that can be injected into the joint. They are given for moderate to severe pain. They can be very useful if there is significant swelling, and are often used for acute flare ups, but are not very helpful if the arthritis affects the joint mechanics. However, the effects may not be long-lasting, Cortisone shots can be thought of as car washes, they don’t “wear off,” but cars do get dirty again, depending on how you drive and what you do to keep them clean.

88 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

Viscosupplementation involves injecting substances into the joint to improve the quality of the joint fluid.

Early on these injections were obtained from rooster combs, and many people still refer to them as “chicken injections.”

These are lubricants for the joint. When they are successful, these injections can reduce pain and eliminate the need for other medications. They are often done twice per year and can be repeated as long as they continue to provide relief.

Biologic Injections

More and more is being done with injections obtained from the patient’s own body. The most common of these injections, known as biologics, are stem cells and platelets. Neither of these are usually covered by insurance and can be quite costly. When they are successful, they do provide relief of symptoms, much as HA injections do, but they do not cure arthritis, as many advertisements claim.

If your arthritis does not respond to these nonsurgical treatments, you may need to have surgery. There are a number of surgical options, including the following: arthroscopic surgery to smooth torn or damaged cartilage, or to remove loose bodies; an osteotomy to improve the alignment of the knee joint; a total or partial knee arthroplasty replaces the severely damaged knee joint cartilage with metal and plastic; and cartilage grafting is possible

for some knees with limited or contained cartilage loss from trauma or arthritis.

Here are 10 important things to keep in mind: 1. Knee osteoarthritis is “wear and tear” of the knee. Knee arthritis occurs when the cartilage of the knee joint gradually erodes. Cartilage is a rubbery, slippery tissue at the ends of bones. Without the gliding, cushioning effect of cartilage, the bones of the knee joint rub together.

The knee can’t move easily and becomes stiff, swollen, and painful.

2. Symptoms usually develop gradually.

Early symptoms of knee arthritis may be aching joints after physical activity or stiffness first thing in the morning. With time, symptoms may occur more often. It becomes harder to walk, climb stairs, and get in and out of chairs.

3. Knee arthritis can affect your whole life. Although most people have mild knee arthritis, it can become severe. Knee arthritis can interfere with daily tasks and your ability to take part in family and work activities. Living with this painful condition can contribute to chronic mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety.

4. There is no cure, but treatment can help. To relieve pain and stay active, you may need a multipronged approach.

Weight loss, exercise, medication, alternative therapies, and surgery are some of the options.

5. Trim your weight to ease knee stress. If you’re overweight, losing just 5 percent of your current weight can improve your arthritis symptoms. Every pound lost takes 4 pounds of stress off your knees. Shedding pounds isn’t easy, but a healthy weight will go a long way toward keeping you active.

6. Exercise is one of the best treatments. Low-impact aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming, water aerobics and cycling, relieves arthritis pain. Stretching and strengthening your leg muscles helps, too. Adding just a little activity to your

day several times a week can make a difference in your symptoms.

7. Medication combats pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and topical creams and sprays are common therapies.

Mild narcotic painkillers and injections of drugs that tame inflammation or improve joint lubrication are sometimes used. Which medication is best for you depends on the severity of your pain, your other health problems and the other medicines you take.

8. Non-drug and alternative therapies may be worth trying. Physical therapy can improve joint function, while occupational therapy teaches you how to move smarter to minimize pain. Acupuncture, massage and electrical stimulation of the nerves (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS) improve symptoms for some people.

9. Self-care means less ouch. Pay attention to your body’s signals so you know when it’s time to slow down or rest. A good night’s sleep and a healthy diet will help you cope better with your arthritis.

When flare-ups occur, apply hot or cold packs or warm towels to your knee or take a warm bath. Cold lessens inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and eases pain and stiffness.

10. There are several surgical options. In knee replacement surgery, the entire knee or part of the knee is replaced with metal or plastic parts. This major surgical procedure can decrease pain and swelling and improve movement when the knee is very damaged. Removal of loose pieces of cartilage, smoothing of the knee’s bony surfaces, and realignment of the bones are other surgical procedures that can reduce pain and disability.

Dr. Michael Gross, the founder and director of Active Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, is the section chief of sports medicine and the orthopedic director of the Center for Sports Medicine at Hackensack University Medical Center, as well as medical director of Active Center for Health and Wellness.

A New Funeral Service for the Non-Affiliated and Reform Jewish Community

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Our process helps families to: Gather vital information you need before you need it. www.bergenjewishchapel.com Benefit from our full disclosure of services, merchandise, and pricing.

789 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, NJ 07666 Eliminate the burden of a face to face (201) 836-0202 meeting at a funeral home location, while still benefiting from our 268 Kinderkamack Road personal attention to our families.

Oradell, NJ 07649 Maintain Traditions Owner/Manager Daniel W. Leber NJ Lic. No 3186

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388 Ramapo Valley Road Oakland

201.644.0421 BC The Mag WINTER 2018 89

ESCAPES

“From the serenity of the Swan Pond to the tranquil remains of a community burial site with headstones dating back to the 17th century, and the historic significance of the Anning Smith Main House, built as a trading post in 1680, this is a magical setting for sure!�

90 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

Bucolic Bliss: Finding Solace at Buttermilk Inn & Spa

By Louise B. Hafesh

P

rimed for a much-needed serenity fix, our mad dash to get out of town had us arriving early for check in at the enchanting, bucolic Hudson River Valley retreat we had set our sights on. And so, intrigued by the sheer beauty that greeted us and anxious to get the lay of the land, we parked the car, stored our bags, and set out a wandering.

BC The Mag WINTER 2019 91

Keeping company with a team of friendly ducks, Hubby and I walked a winding trail surrounded by lush greenery, wildflowers weeping willows, gently rolling hills and river vistas at every turn. Soothing sounds of a cascading waterfall (the Inn’s namesake) echoed in the distance, and instinctively, we knew… Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa, 220 North Road, Milton, N.Y. 12547, was exactly the place our weary psyches needed!

Later, settled into our rustically comfy, second-floor cottage (the “Rooks Nest”), with its appealing Adirondack décor, cheery and bold color palette and loft-like architectural touches, that sentiment was confirmed as with time to spare before dinner, we donned cushy robes, cozied up fireside and soaked up the peaceful aura.

Farm To Table Fare

Ready to venture out for a good meal, we didn’t have far to go. Henry’s at the Farm, the on-site restaurant, was but a stone’s throw. Relaxed, rustic and a real find, a creative country menu highlights local bounty from neighbor92 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

ing food producers, the Inn’s own Organic Millstone Farm, and Hudson Valley wineries. A few intriguing dishes stand out, including a 48 oz. Tomahawk Steak and Chilled Millstone Farm Watermelon Gazpacho. Our selections, however, leaned toward more standard fare: Filet Mignon, with mashed potatoes and beer-battered onion rings for Joe, Oven Roasted Beet Salad with Shaved Fennel Salad for us both (outrageous with golden and red beets, goat cheese shaved fennel and toasted hazelnuts) and Pan Seared King Salmon with Succotash for me. Accompanied by a few glasses of House Sangria of the day and topped off with a decadent, flourless chocolate cake, we were pleasantly impressed. So much so that by meals end, we had reserved a table for the following night.

Opting for a leisurely stroll before retiring, the sheer beauty of the grounds again beckoned. From the serenity of the Swan Pond to the tranquil remains of a community burial site with headstones dating back to the 17th century, and the historic significance of the Anning Smith Main House, built as a trading post in 1680, this is a magical setting for sure!

America’s First Presidential Library and Foodie’s Delights

Awakening the next morning to stormy weather, we set course for nearby Hyde Park and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. To say you could spend an entire day at this historic compound is an understatement. Transported back to one of the most difficult times of the 20th century through videos, photos and artifacts, the museum, a somber reminder about the depression, New Deal and wartime, illuminates the 32nd president’s principles in stark contrast to politics today.

A guided tour of Roosevelt’s family home is a must! Situated overlooking the Hudson and reflecting a moment in time, it appears just as it did the day FDR died. In addition to the room and bed where he was born, you can view how the family dined and entertained the likes of Winston Churchill, Queen Elizabeth and a host of political and social houseguests. Of note regarding his paralysis, Roosevelt re-

purposed the kitchen dumbwaiter to maneuver him from floor to floor. Ingenious, really! The grounds, too, are impressive, including the Rose Garden, where FDR and Eleanor were put to rest.

Exiting the museum by way of Route 9, we passed by a foodie fantasyland – The Culinary Institute of America, where award-winning restaurants and café’s showcase an epicurean experience as prepared by future culinary leaders and chefs. Time constraints and a spa appointment didn’t allow us to indulge, but given its close proximity to Bergen, a day trip is surely in the offing.

Closing in on home base, however, we did stop for a lite bite at Frida’s Bakery & Café, a mainstay in the little hamlet of Milton. Owned and operated by the Buttermilk, it offers a tempting array of house-made artisan bread, amazing pastries, cookies, and desserts, but also assorted Panini’s, wraps, home-style specials and made to order, build your own salads and hamburgers. Add to the mix, small-town charm, quality service, and an entire second-floor kid’s playroom complete with adult-sized toys; it’s easy to see why this eatery is a local hotspot.

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Spa Time Serenity

Back on-premise, after donning bathing suits and robes, we headed to the spa. And while hubby spent time lounging poolside, taking in the eco-friendly solar and geothermal powered sauna and steam room, I opted for a blissful, 90minute Buttermilk Facial that touted antioxidant, pH balance and nutrient-rich serums. What an all around, treat… as a surprise to me, it included a soothing foot and hand treatment! I about floated back to our cozy little nest.

More To Love

So much to see, and so little time. Did I mention Buttermilk’s animal sanctuary, which is home to a honeybee apiary, chickens, donkeys, llamas, goats and peacocks, an or-

ganic kitchen garden, orchard and aviary? Then, too, rounding out the B&B perks, there’s complimentary afternoon teatime in the Maine House Inn’s Sun Room (more of Frida’s tasty goodies, specialty teas and coffee), free WiFi and a hearty buffet and cooked entrée breakfast. Who could ask for anything more?

Buttermilk Falls, Inn & Spa’s 17 guest accommodations are split between the Main House, former barns and four freestanding guesthouses. For more information, call (845) 795-1310 or visit www.buttermilkfallsinn.com.

Louise B. Hafesh is an award-winning writer and contemporary realist artist. A Bergen County resident, she is president of AdVantage Publication Services, Inc., an editorial syndicate for regional and national publications, and can be reached at www.louisebhafesh.com or www.paintersportal.blogspot.com.

BC The Mag WINTER 2019 95

Kula for Karma Kula for Karma held their 11th annual gala at the Hilton Pearl River.

For more information, visit www.kulaforkarma.org.

Frank Ciminello, Dr. Nicole Anderson Ciminello

Amelia Deluca-Verley, Jill Mckeon

Gabriella Toth, Oshaine Johnson, Barbara Sage

Bradley Solomon, Kristin Moshonas, Jason Makowski

2

Mike Greenberg, Ben Pollinger

Marcie Wald, Alissa Vitale, Stacy Lefkowitz

Penni Feiner, Geri Topfer, Maria Salvatore, Caryl and TJ Kourgelis Late Spring 2017

Howie and Stefanie Greenspan

Ben and Allysa Goldman

Rachel and James Vassak

Michael Flowers, Valerie Nannola, Jonathan Goldstein

Jenevieve Pluhowski, Marcello Russodivito, Daout Celestin

Kathleen McCormick, Phil Wilkins, Kathryn Delaney

Matt and Katie Gately

Jenevieve Pluhowski, Marcello Russodivito, Daout Celestin

Tom and Barbara Kornreich, Dr. Mark Schlesinger

Brigette Scanlon, Brooke Sperling, Beth HaysStevens, Elizabeth Jennings

MS Center Awards Reception The Holy Name Medical Center Foundation held their annual MS Center Awards Reception at The Venetian in Garfield. For more information, visit www.holyname.org.

2

Carl Jr., Kate, Lauren and Lawrence Inserra Jr.

Elaine Adler, Larry Inserra

Larry Inserra, Joe Sanzari, Mike Maron

Janice Mitchell, Pat Sullivan, Barbara Clapsaddle

Shivi Grewal, Joe Sanzari, Yogi Virk

Matt and Dan Leber, Joel DiMaria

Lori Rubino, Joe Sanzari, Regina and John Salemme

Joe Sanzari, Lori Rubino, Inez and Larry Inserra

Aldo Cascio, Jim Kourgelis, Dr. Rick Winters, Dr. Dante Implicito

Late Spring 2017

June Halper, Larry Inserra, Susan Zurndorfer

Frank Siclari, Marie and Laurie Inserra, Brad Smith

Greg and Jerry Iannone

Mary Kozibroda, Jo Ann Sanzari

Brian and Janet McCourt, Joe and Tina Coccaro

John Amoratis, Mark Spinelli, Mike Maron

Mark Spinelli, Lori Rubino, Joe Sanzari, Jim Kourgelis

Sister Antoinette Moore, Joe Parisi, Sister Barbara Moran

Joe Coccaro, Joe Sanzari, Mike Maron

EATS

Toufayan Bakeries:

Fifty Years of Tradition, Family Values and Fanciful Baked Goods

A

By Tara DeLorenzo

fter baking a legacy of tradition, family values and fanciful baked goods, Toufayan Bakeries is celebrating its fiftieth year of making bread and giving back in America.

While there have been 50 years of Toufayan Bakeries in America, the company had its real start back in 1926. Karen Toufayan, daughter of the founder Harry Toufayan, who also runs sales and marketing at the bakeries, explained her grandfather had immigrated from Armenia to Egypt, where, with her grandmother, he started a pita bread business that he attached to a grocery store he owned. It was in the mid-sixties that they then moved to America.

After working outside of the bakery in98 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

dustry to save money, the family opened their first bakery in Hudson County, N.J. before moving it to Bergen County, where the family started a grocery store with a pita bread business attached to it.

“After a year or so of doing that, my dad was standing at a deli counter at one of the larger supermarkets, and waiting for deli meats, he thought, ‘This would be the perfect place to put pita bread to introduce it to America and the people in New Jersey, and it’d be great to put it on a shelf right by the deli counter.’ And, that’s how it all came to be. He, basically, with his limited English, got on the phone and found out who the deli buyer was at the supermarkets, put the bread in a box under his arm and knocked on the

door of the A&P in Grand Union, and the rest is somewhat history,” Karen Toufayan said.

The Toufayan Bakeries expanded further once Harry Toufayan took note that his customers were traveling to Florida for the winter. To support that, he started by sending the products UPS to customers in Florida until he decided to call Publix supermarkets in the late seventies.

“We used to have trucks that went back and forth from New Jersey to Florida, but he wanted to be able to bake fresh bread there, so the idea of finding a bakery and land and an opportunity in Florida blossomed in his mind,” Karen Toufayan said. “We built a bakery in Orlando in the early eighties, so we could manufacture the pita bread, along with

some other baked goods. At that point he was trying to expand some of the things we made from just white and wheat pita breads to flavored ones, like onion and sesame and then doing other products like hot dog buns and breadsticks. He likes to travel – that’s basically his only hobby outside work. So when he would travel, he’d love to go into the different bakeries in the countries he visited and a lot of times that sparked ideas in his mind about different things he can bake and manufacture here in the U.S. and bring to the American consumer.”

The bakery now manages three factories, its headquarters in Ridgefield and two others Plant City and Orlando, both in Florida. Each factory, while they all have the same core

products, differs in their specialties based on the area. New Jersey is the headquarters since the family has grown up there and they still currently reside there. In Plant City, they work more heavily on producing hamburgers, hot dog buns and their gluten-free cookie line Goodie Girl Cookies, while Orlando has more of a focus on the pita breads and bagels.

While Harry Toufayan is still very involved in the business, his children Greg, Karen and Kristine each taking on a different responsibility. Greg has been overseeing and running the different factories, while Kristine focuses on more of the human resource work and numbers and Karen focuses on sales and marketing.

“[The goals for us would be] that future generations of Toufayan might find our business to be a great place to work,” Karen Toufayan said. “It gives my brother, sister and I an opportunity to work together and with our family and our dad, and some of the people that work here have worked here since I was 5/6 years old. I’m working alongside people that have been here almost 40 years, so that’s neat. Just to work side-by-side with my brother and my sister and my dad, every day is a proud moment. We love New Jersey.

We’re grateful to have this opportunity to do business in America and New Jersey, and we love working with our family every day. It’s fun.”

In addition to providing the products to BC The Mag WINTER 2019 99

consumers, Toufayan Bakeries also had dedicated itself to giving back to those in need.

In the face of Hurricane Florence, the factories filled two tractor-trailers of baked goods and sent them to local food banks in North

100 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

and South Carolina. When the hurricane hit Puerto Rico, Toufayan Bakeries sent multiple loads of food too to help those in need there. The bakeries also partners with the MS Foundation and Make a Wish to provide baked goods for different events.

“We typically give baked goods.

We do make monetary donations, but my dad likes to make it a bread donation,” Karen Toufayan said. “We’re about to deliver 500 packages of pita chips to an event that the New Jersey Bergen County Alzheimer’s Association is having. We do stuff with Make a Wish, donating products for events they have. The MS Foundation has a couple of walk-a-thons and races, and we like to give donations of bagels or proteins for events they have. In that sense, that’s how we give back. In celebration of our 50th anniversary and celebrating us doing business here in America, we thought it would be symbolic

and nice to give back to an American institution, so we made a monetary donation to the Smithsonian Institute in honor of our anniversary.”

Moving forward, the company hopes to continue to build their brand and its recognition. They are also looking to expand on their line and build on the Goodie Girl Cookies.

With all its growth currently though, the family is extremely happy with the progress they’ve made and the work they’ve done over the years.

“It’s a pretty incredible accomplishment [celebrating 50 years],” Karen Toufayan said. “We give a lot back to the community, so to be able to continue doing that is important to my dad, and he set an example for Greg, Kristine and me to continue doing that.

That’s where we hope to be.”

More information on Toufayan Bakeries can be found at https://toufayan.com or on social media at https://www.facebook.com/Toufayan/ and https://www.instagram.com/ toufayan/.

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EVENTS

RESTAURANT WEEK

• Through Jan. 31, partake in Ridgewood’s Restaurant Week, presented by Valley Hospital in partnership with the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce. Participating restaurants and caterers are offering residents the chance to “experience” dining in Ridgewood or in their home. Each chef is preparing a tantalizing three-course, prix-fixe menu at $30.19. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/yab5z9ln.

CAMP FAIR

• Meet with camp directors and camp staff to learn more about The Village of Ridgewood camp on Feb. 2 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Community Center, 131 North Maple Ave., Ridgewood. There is nothing like actual communication with a camp director or staff member.

PREPARING FOR BABY

•A

Sibling Class, designed for young children, ages 3-7, to help prepare them for a new baby in the family, will be held on Feb. 10 from 10-11:30 a.m. at Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Ave., Hackensack. Call (551) 996-2189 to register.

MOMMY/DADDY & ME

• Bring the whole family to Paramus Public Library’s Pajama Story Time on Feb. 12 and March 19 from 7-7:45 p.m. Bedtime books will be read and songs will be sung.

No registration is necessary. The library is located at 116 East Century Road in Paramus.

• Join the Paramus Barnes and Noble, 765 NJ 17, Paramus, every Wednesday through March 6 from 11-11:30 a.m. for a special story time with a fun-filled activity or craft in the Children’s Department.

FOR YOUR HEALTH

• How To Talk To Kids: Drugs and Alco-

hol, an interactive panel for parents, will be 102 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

presented by Ramsey and Saddler Rive Municipal Alliances on Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. at Northern Highlands High School, 298 Hillside Ave., Allendale.

HEART MONTH

• “Heart” Warming Cooking will be held on Feb. 15 from noon to 1 p.m. at the John Theurer Cancer Center Cooking Studio, 92 Second St., Hackensack. Join registered dietitians and chefs as they serve up some heart-healthy recipes to start the year off right. Cooking demos and sampling will be available. No registration is required.

• Stop the Bleed, a nationwide campaign to teach lifesaving techniques, will be held on Feb. 16 from 8:30-11 a.m. at the Debra Simon Center for Integrative Medicine HackensackUMC Fitness & Wellness Powered by the Giants, 87 Route 17 North, Maywood. Call (551) 996-2672 to register.

SELF DEFENSE

• A women’s self defense class will be held on Feb. 23 from 12:30-2 p.m. at Complete Taekwon-Do, 109 North Washington Ave., Bergenfield. Master Laura Giletti, a 6th degree black belt, will teach the class. Cost: $20. For more information, call (201) 2448957 or visit www.CompleteTKD.com.

HOT TICKETS

• Master magician Bradley Fields has de-

lighted audiences from Broadway to London’s West End, and now he’ll entertain Bergen County. Enjoy an intimate afternoon of magic on Jan. 27 at 3 p.m. at the Sharp Theater, 505 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah. Tickets: $25-$35; children under 17, $18. This is a family-friendly show. For more information or tickets, visit www.ramapo.ed/berriecenter/performance-schedule or call (201) 684-7844.

• Sherma Andrews, singer, songwriter, arranger, producer, pianist and recording artist, will perform “The Legendary Lady Singers,” a showcase of some of the great-

est female singers and their hit songs, on March 16 at 8 p.m. at the Sharp Theater, 505 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah. Tickets: $25-35; children under 17, $18. For more information or tickets, visit www.ramapo.ed/berriecenter/performance-schedule or call (201) 684-7844.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

• Looking for a night out on Feb. 22 from 5:30-8 p.m.? BounceU, 70 Eisenhower Drive, Paramus, knows that sometimes parents deserve a little time by themselves.

Trust BounceU to provide your kids with a night of non-stop bouncing and games without any help from Mom and Dad.Total time: 2 hours, 30 minutes, which includes 2 hours in the Bounce stadiums, followed by 30 minutes for a pizza party and soft drinks. Cost: $19.95 per child.

RAISE FUNDS

• Bergen United Way is hosting “A Very Special Night Gala” on March 28 at the Edgewood Country Club from 6-10 p.m.

Each year United Way hosts this very special evening in celebration of their Very Special Housing.

• St. John’s Academy’s 20th annual Red and White Tricky Tray Gala will be held on April 3 at the Rockleigh Country Club in Rockleigh. Visit www.sja-school.org for more information.

STEM CONFERENCE

• Solved by Girls, New Jersey’s first-ever STEM conference for girls, will host its third annual event on April 11 at Primoris Academy in Westwood. Featuring a teambased Olympiad of STEM challenges and a special guest speaker, the conference is open to all girls in grades 3-8 at any school in the greater New York metropolitan area. More information is available by emailing info@primorisacademy.org.

Have an event you’d like featured in BC The Mag? Send the necessary information to info@ bcthemag.com for a chance to be included.

RESTAURANT GUIDE AMERICAN

Big Papa Smokem

352 Palisades Ave., Bogota, 201-742-5704

Chakra

(Contemporary & Traditional) The Abbey

Bonefish Grill

Center Tavern

Ramsey Golf and Country Club 105 Lakeside Dr., Ramsey, 201-818-9298 Allendale Bar & Grill

601 From Rd., Paramus, 201-261-2355 Boom Burger

180 NJ-17, Mahwah, 201-529-1806

Bareburger

129 Vervalen St., Closter, 201-660-7720 The Barn

359 Sicomac Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-0108 The Barrow House

1296 Van Houten Ave., Clifton, 862-336-7070

37 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-857-0437

487 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-894-0880 Biddy O’Malley’s Irish Bistro and Bar

191 Paris Ave., Northvale, 201-564-7893

222 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, 201-445-2362

Crow’s Nest

Gross’s La Strada

231 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-670-9233

Cubby’s BBQ Restaurant

Haven Riverfront Restaurant & Bar

249 S. River St. Hackensack, 201-488-9389

Café Amici Wyckoff (BYOB)

2 Main St., Edgewater, 201-943-1900 Hearth and Tap

315 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-0198

Davey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant

5 Park St., Montvale, 201-391-9356

125 N. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-307-6300

Café Amici Ho-Ho-Kus (BYOB)

East Coast Burger Company

Ho-Ho-Kus Inn and Tavern

75 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-857-0277

4 Sycamore Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-389-6377

1 East Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-445-4115

Emerson Hotel Restaurant

Café Angelique 1 Piermont Rd., Tenafly, 201-541-1010

The Bicycle Club

84 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-666-8688 309 Vincent Ave., Hackensack, 201-342-5445

Café 37 (BYOB)

800 Ridgewood Rd., Washington Township, 201-358-6330

Glenn Rock Inn

The Cornerstone

179 Godwin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-1211

Bacari Grill

22-08 Morlot Ave.,Fair Lawn, 201-791-1911

1350B Queen Anne Rd., Teaneck, 201-862-0600

The Brick House

622 North Maple Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-251-2222

Giovanni’s Deli

Coffee & Cornbread Co.

21 Teterboro Landing Dr., Teterboro, 551-313-7450

Alt Eats Cafe

100 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-307-1100

55 NJ-4, Hackensack, 201-488-4999

BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse

101 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale,201-825-0110

Fire and Oak

Coach House Restaurant

5 W. Main St., Ramsey, 201-327-9748

Allendale Eats

15 E. Madison Ave., Cresskill, 201-266-8931 301 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-664-8424

170 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-666-2200

Brady’s at the Station

67 W. Allendale Ave. Allendale, 201-327-3197

Farmhouse Café & Eatery

144 W. State Route 4, Paramus, 201-566-1530

Houston’s

31 Emerson Plaza, Emerson, 201-262-7557

Café Matisse (BYOB)

167 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-935-2995

The Shop’s at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-488-5667

Esposito’s Park Café

Hungry Peddler

790 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-313-2441

City Perch Kitchen and Bar

2023 Hudson St., Fort Lee, 201-582-7101

44 E. Madison Ave., Cresskill, 201-894-0718

Esty Street

Iron Horse

86 Spring Valley Rd., Park Ridge, 201-307-1515

Call to make your reservations for

20 Washington Ave., Westwood, 201-666-9682

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OpenTable®

Ivy Inn

Nellie’s Place

The Plum and The Pear (BYOB)

Jackson Hole

Nikki’s Bar & Grill

Railroad Café

Just Janice (BYOB)

Noah’s Ark (Kosher)

Raymond’s

268 Terrace Ave., Hasbrouck Heights, 201-393-7699 362 Grande Ave., Englewood, 201-871-7444

9 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, 201-652-8626

393 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-485-8793

213 Washington Ave., Little Ferry, 201-518-2883

23 Sheridan Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-445-2666

Oceanos

2-27 Saddle River Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-796-0546

The Kosher Nosh Deli

894 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-1186

Palmer’s Crossing

Lakeside Grille & Bar

105 Lakeside Dr., Ramsey, 201-327-0009

80 Green St., Teterboro, 201-288-1170 Sedona Taphouse

170 Union Ave., East Rutherford, 201-939-0644

493 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201-692-1200

Sal’s Good Eats

1 Towne Center Drive, Cliffside Park, 201-943-2300 Section 201

704 River Rd., New Milford, 201-262-5600

101 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-5125

Shelly’s Vegetarian Café and Caterers

482 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201-692-0001

Reilly’s Rib Cage (BYOB)

49 W. Church St., Bergenfield, 201-771-7200

Steel Wheel Tavern

145 Dean Dr., (Clinton Ave.), Clinton Inn Hotel, Tenafly, 201-567-4800

Regina’s Steakhouse and Grill

827 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-862-1996

51 N. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-882-1800

Park Wood Delicatessen

St. Eve’s Restaurant (BYOB)

2 Island Rd., Mahwah, 201-529-8056

342 Erie Ave., Midland Park, 201-689-0855

Restaurant L

Mahwah Bar & Grill Mason Jar

Pearl Restaurant (BYOB)

Rolling Pin Café

Stony Hill Inn

Mitchell’s Seafood Market

Peppercorns

Roots Steakhouse

Tommy Fox’s Public House

Pizzaiolo By Brothers

Rosario’s Trattoria (BYOB)

Twisted Elm

P.J. Finnegan’s

Rotunda

Veggie Heaven

Plank Pizza Company

Ruby Tuesday

Village Green (BYOB)

219 Ramapo Valley Rd., Mahwah, 201-529-2302

17 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-857-5100

541 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-840-9311 MK Valencia

228 Main St., Ridgefield Park, 201-373-0228

176 Colony Ave., Park Ridge, 201-391-2818 85 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-444-4944

Mob Burger

525 Moonachie Ave, Wood-Ridge, 201-728-4891

274 Fairview Ave., Westwood, 201-664-7576

Nostramana Café

51 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale, 551-264-9200

383 Market St. Bldg. D, Saddle Brooke, 201-843-2426

9 Franklin Turnpike, Allendale, 201-785-1112 341 Broadway, Westwood, 201-666-4660

231 Polify Rd. (Rt. 80), Hackensack, 201-342-4085

17 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-444-1922

32 S. Washington Ave., Bergenfield, 201-384-0900

29 Central Ave., Midland Park, 201-445-3335 Garden State Plaza (Rtes. 17 & 4), Paramus, 201-843-7693 Route 4 & 17, Paramus, 201-909-0886 Rutherford Pancake House

40 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-340-4171

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Waterside

Kimchi Smoke BBQ

301 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-497-6333

CONTINENTAL/ AMERICAN

6-09 Fair Lawn Ave., Fair Lawn, 201-797-6767

White Maple Café (BYOB)

Mr. Wok & Sushi (BYOB)

W’s Grill

Sage (BYOB)

7800 B. River Rd., North Bergen, 201-861-7767 47 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-447-1953

1 Highwood Ave. 2nd Floor, Tenafly, 201-569-3969

103 Prime

20 Elm St., Oakland, 201-651-0005

Myung Ga Won

103 Spring Valley Rd., Park Ridge, 201-391-2220

72 Piermont Road, Tenafly, 201-500-1111 Petite Soo Chow

ASIAN/ASIAN FUSION

607 Gorge Road, Cliffside Park, 201-313-1666 P.F. Chang’s

I Fish (BYOB)

The Shops at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-646-1565

114 Country Rd., Tenafly, 201-569-1111

T.S. Ma Wyckoff

200 Main St., Fort Lee, 858-999-5555

637 Wyckoff Ave., Wyckoff, 201-891-8870

CHINESE/KOREAN/ KOREAN BBQ

CONTINENTAL CUISINE

Dong Chun Hong

Al Di La

Wok Bar

144 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-592-0450

1 Hoboken Rd., East Rutherford, 201-939-1128

Golden Dynasty

Fountainview Restaurant

Sheraton Crossroads, 1 International Blvd. (Rt. 17N.), Mahwah, 201-529-1313

825 Franklin Lakes Rd., Franklin Lakes, 201-891-7866 295 Kinderkamack Rd., Hillsdale, 201-358-8685

Rudy’s

107 Anderson Ave., Hackensack,201-489-4831

Kimchi Mama

7-09 Fair Lawn Ave., Fair Lawn, 201-703-2905

Davia

17-15 Broadway, Fair Lawn, 201-797-0500 Savini

CONTINENTAL/ FRENCH

168 West Crescent Ave., Allendale, 201-760-3700 Villa Amalfi

Café Panache (BYOB)

793 Palisades Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-886-8626

Latour (BYOB)

CUBAN

130 E. Main St. (Lake St.), Ramsey, 201-934-0030 6 East Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-5056 Le Jardin

1257 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-224-9898 Madeleine’s Petite Paris

416 Tappan Rd., Northvale, 201-767-0063 Saddle River Inn (BYOB)

2 Barnstable Ct., Saddle River, 201-825-4016

CONTINENTAL/ ITALIAN Andrea’s Ristorante Italiano (BYOB) 20 E. Prospect St., Waldwick, 201-670-0275/201-670-7958

Azúcar Cuban Cuisine

171 Schraalenburgh Rd., Closter, 201-660-7977 Casual Habana Cafe (BYOB)

125 Main St., Hackensack, 201-880-9844 Mambo Tea House (BYOB)

98 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-933-1262 Mis Raices

1214 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-530-7233 Rebecca’s Restaurant (BYOB)

236 Old River Rd., Edgewater, 201-943-8808 Rumba Cubana

1807 45th St., North Bergen, 201-553-9100

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DOMINICAN Punta Cana

2151 Lemoine Ave., Fort Lee, 201-849-5556

ECLECTIC

CONTEMPORARY Bibi’z Restaurant and Lounge

284 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-722-8600 Baumgart’s Café (BYOB)

Sofia

Axia Taverna

Varka

200 Tice

Daily Treat

177 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood 201-652-9113

INDIAN

Eons

159 Main St., Hackensack, 201-342-3444

36 Engle St., Englewood, 201-541-8530 (Inside The Woodcliff Lake Hilton) 200 Tice Blvd., Woodcliff Lake, 201-391-3600 201 Supper Club

90 W. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-541-0101

FONDUE

59 The Promenade, Edgewater, 201-313-3889 45 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-569-6267 158 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-612-5688

The Melting Pot

Café Matisse (BYOB)

6 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-5056

167 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-935-2995 The Dog and Cask

55 NJ-17 S., Rochelle Park,201-845-5101 G.W. Grill

2139 Hudson Terrace, Fort Lee, 201-947-2440 Port of Call (POC) (BYOB)

450 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, 201-488-0888 The Rail Yard Tavern

14-26 Plaza Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-773-3372

250 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-664-8877

FRENCH Latour (BYOB)

The Chef’s Table (BYOB) 754 Franklin Ave., Franklin Lakes, 201-891-6644

GERMAN Kirker’s Inn

237 Diamond Bridge Ave., Hawthorne, 973-427-7700

GREEK A Taste of Greece (BYOB)

935 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-967-0029

18 Piermont Rd., Tenafly, 201-569-5999

17 NJ-17,Paramus, 212-696-1234 Greek Corner Grill (BYOB) 99 Park Ave.,Park Ridge, 201-476-1400 GRK Grill (BYOB) 39 Union Ave., Cresskill, 201-399-7670 The Greek Village

254 Livingston St., Northvale, 201-750-8570 It’s Greek to Me

352 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-945-5447 36 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-568-0440 1611 Palisade Ave., Fort Lee, 201-947-2050 21 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-612-2600 487 Broadway, Westwood, 201-722-3511 2020 Central Road, Fort Lee, 201-947-2055 Taverna Mykonos

238 Broadway, Elmwood Park, 201-703-9200

30 N. Spruce St., Ramsey, 201-995-9333

Art of Spice (BYOB)

BHOJ (BYOB)

430 Market St., Elmwood Park, 201-797-6800 Kailash (BYOB)

22 Oak St., Ridgewood, 201-251-9693 Mantra

275 NJ-4,Paramus, 201-342-8868 Mausam (BYOB)

76 Market St., Clifton, 973-472-3663 Nirvana Indian Kitchen (BYOB)

29 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale, 201-818-2300 Spice Mantra (BYOB)

6 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-568-1122 Silli Point (BYOB)

498 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-941-0271 Taste of India (BYOB)

166 Cedar Ln., Teaneck, 201-692-3222

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BC The Mag WINTER 2019 107

IRISH Biddy O’Malley’s Irish Bistro and Bar

36 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, 201-608-5545 191 Paris Ave., Northvale, 201-564-7893 Poitin Still

774 Main St., Hackensack, 201-487-0660

429 Broadway Ave., Westwood, 201-786-8137 Caffe Capri (BYOB)

119 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201-460-1039 Café Italiano Ristorante

14 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-461-5041

Café L’Amore (BYOB)

ITALIAN

455 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, 201-337-5558

Aldo & Gianni Ristorante

Café Tivoli

Aldo’s (BYOB)

Cassie’s

A Mano

Cenzino Ristorante

Amarone

Cliff’s Steakhouse

108 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-391-6866 640 Wyckoff Ave., Wyckoff, 201-891-2618 24 Franklin Ave. (at Chestnut St.), Ridgewood, 201-493-2000 63 Cedar Ln., Teaneck, 201-833-1897 Andiamo

23 Hardenburgh Ave., Haworth, 201-384-1551 Angelo’s Restaurant

263 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst, 201-939-1922 Arturo’s

41 Central Ave., Midland Park, 201-444-2466 Baci Italian Grill

36 Jefferson Ave., Westwood, 201-722-1900 Barcelona’s

38 Harrison Ave., Garfield, 973-778-4930 Bazzarelli

117 Moonachie Rd., Moonachie, 201-641-4010 Bellissimo (BYOB)

12 S. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-746-6669 Bensi

459 Rt. 17S, Hasbrouck Heights, 201-727-9525 183 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, 201-297-7444 Bistro 107

107 Moonachie Rd., Moonachie, 201-440-3339 Bottagra Restaurant

80 Wagaraw Rd., Hawthorne, 973-423-4433 Buon Gusto (BYOB)

534 Durie Ave., Closter, 201-784-9036 Buongiorno’s (BYOB)

86 Washington Ave., Dumont, 201-501-8000 Café Amici (BYOB)

108 BC The Mag WITNER 2019

Caffe Annello (BYOB)

4 Sycamore Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-389-6377

533 Shaler Blvd., Ridgefield, 201-941-5561 18 S. Dean St., Englewood, 201-541-6760 589 Ramapo Valley Rd., Oakland, 201-337-6693 18 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-944-0233 Dimora

100 Piermont Rd., Norwood, 201-750-5000 Dino’s

12 Tappan Rd., Harrington Park, 201-767-4245 Due (BYOB)

16-18 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-857-3231 Fiona’s Restaurant (BYOB)

118 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-857-5800 Fontana Di Trevi (BYOB)

248 Fort Lee Road, Leonia, 201-242-9040

Fratelli’s Coal-Burning Pizza

206 Route 46, Elmwood Park, 201-797-7552 Gianna’s

843 Washington Ave., Carlstadt, 201-460-7997 Giovanna’s Café

19 E. Main St., Ramsey, 201-825-5835 GoodFellas Ristorante

61 Midland Ave., Garfield, 973-478-4000 Granita Grille

467 Broadway, Westwood, 201-664-9846 Grissini Restaurant

484 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-568-3535 Guilio’s

154 Washington St., Tappan, NY, 845-359-3657 Il Giardino (BYOB)

153 Paris Ave., Northvale, 201-750-0060 Il Mulino Ristorante (BYOB)

132 Veterans Plaza, Dumont, 201-384-7767

Il Villaggio

651 NJ-17N (between Rtes. 3&46), Carlstadt, 201-953-7733 In Napoli

116 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-947-2500 Kinchley’s Tavern

586 N. Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, 201-934-7777

Rugova Restaurant & Bar

259 Johnson Ave., River Edge, 201-880-8488 Sanducci’s Trattoria (BYOB)

620 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-599-0600 Sanzari’s New Bridge Inn

105 Old New Bridge Rd., New Milford, 201-692-7700 Sergio’s Missione (BYOB)

L’Angolo Trattoria Italiana (BYOB)

2 N. Mercer St., Lodi, 973-778-4545

La Cambusa

Sicilian Sun (BYOB) 604 N. Maple Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-444-3494

696 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-941-0853 517 River Drive, Garfield, 973-445-7222 La Lanterna (BYOB)

29 W. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-444-5520 Locale Café

208 Piermont Rd., Closter, 201-750-3233 Luka’s (BYOB)

10 River Road, Bogota, 201-440-2996 Lu Nello

182 Stevens Ave., Cedar Grove, 973-837-1660 Maggiano’s Little Italy

The Shops at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-221-2030 Martini Grill

187 Hackensack St., Wood-Ridge, 201-939-2000 Nanni Ristorante

53 W. Passaic St. (behind Garden State Plaza), Rochelle Park, 201-843-1250

Solari’s

61 S. River St., Hackensack, 201-487-1969 Sorrento (BYOB)

132 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201-507-0093 Trattoria Giotto (BYOB)

15 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-528-7142 Trovato’s Due

4 Barbara Ln., Oakland, 201-337-0813 Vicolo Ristorante

216 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, 201-497-8777 Woodstone Pizza Bar & Grill

352 W. Passaic St., Rochelle Park, 201-845-7600 Zozo’s Restaurant

625 River Vale Rd., River Vale, 201-391-3195

JAPANESE

Nonna’s Cucina (BYOB)

Akai Lounge

Olivella’s

Asahi (BYOB)

Osso Buco

Blu Sushi (BYOB)

Picco Tavern

Cocoro - 856 Franklin Ave.,

918 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-2758 7709 Bergenline Ave., North Bergen, 201-662-6110 343 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-664-1600 160 Prospect Ave., Hackensack, 201-880-8750 Portobello

175 Ramapo Valley Rd. (Rt. 202), Oakland, 201-3378990 Puzo’s Family Restaurant

4 Garfield Ave., Hawthorne,973-423-2288 Radicchio Pasta & Risotta Co. (BYOB)

34 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-670-7311

11 N. Dean St., Englewood, 201-541-0086 1475 Bergen Blvd., Fort Lee, 201-944-5113 26 Wilsey Square, Ridgewood, 201-882-1700 Franklin Lakes, 201-560-1333

Daruma (BYOB)

45 N. Dean St., Englewood, 201-567-9600 Fuki Sushi (BYOB)

828 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-225-0160 Gen Sushi & Hibachi

14B Chestnut Ridge Rd. Montvale, 201-930-9188 Hanami (BYOB)

Rocca (BYOB) - 203 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, 201-670-4945

41 Union Ave., Cresskill, 201-567-8508 301 Center Ave.,Westwood, 201-666-8508

Roxanne’s

Hiro

150 Franklin Turnpike, Mahwah, 201-529-0007

254 Degraw Ave., Teaneck, 201-692-1002 BC The Mag WINTER 2019 109

Hiura

Wasabi

Kazuki (BYOB)

Yuki

Kiku

Yuki Hana (BYOB)

400 Main St. Ste. B, Fort Lee, 201-346-0110 638 Westwood Ave., River Vale, 201-263-1811 5-9 Rt. 9W (Palisades Pkwy.), Alpine, 201-767-6322 365 Rt. 17S, Paramus, 201-265-7200 Kumo (BYOB)

55 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-652-0088 Kyoto (BYOB)

78 Washington Ave., Dumont, 201-384-5544 Masa Sushi & Grill (BYOB)

81 W. Allendale Ave.,Allendale, 201-934-6616 Matsu Sushi & Grill

140 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-722-9388 Matsuya

490 Market St., Saddle Brook, 201-843-5811 Mei Sushi Japanese Restaurant

14-20 Plaza Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-398-9882 Minado

1 Valley Rd., Little Ferry, 201-931-1522 Mount Fuji Japanese Steak House

2 S. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-391-9877 131 Kinderkamack Rd., Park Ridge, 201-391-3230

LATIN Mambo Empanadas (BYOB)

313 Union Ave., Rutherford, 201-933-3888

MEDITERRANEAN The Kebabci (BYOB)

259 Valley Blvd., Wood-Ridge, 201-728-4949 Mado (BYOB)

570 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-265-3629 Mediterraneo (BYOB)

23 N. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-447-0022 Mezza (BYOB)

20 Jefferson Ave., Westwood, 201-722-8822 Novo (BYOB)

37 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-444-4910

193 NJ-17, Hasbrouck Heights, 201-288-2800

MEXICAN

Nizi Sushi (BYOB)

A Taco Affair

300 Union Ave.,Rutherford, 201804-7666

81 Main St., Little Falls, 973-812-8226

Sarku Japan

Azteca (BYOB)

Bergen Town Center, Rt. 4W (Forest Ave.), Paramus, 201-880-6551 Sakura-Bana (BYOB)

43 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-447-6525 Sendai Japanese Restaurant & Grill

178 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-225-0995 Sushi Cruise (BYOB)

725 River Road #51, Edgewater, 201-313-3611 Sushi Village (BYOB)

700-90 Broadway, Westwood, 201-666-8800 Sushi X (BYOB)

23 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-689-7878 Umeya

156 Piermont Rd., Cresskill, 201-816-0511 Tawara Japanese Restaurant (BYOB)

53 W. Main St., Ramsey, 201-825-8712 110 BC The Mag WITNER 2019

848 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-493-7575

47 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-438-2111 Jalepenos

930 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-5566 La Frontera (BYOB)

37 E. Broadway, Hackensack,201-880-7731 Leon

16 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-857-0297 Mariachi Grill (BYOB)

262 Ridge Rd., Lyndhurst, 201-528-7493 Riviera Maya (BYOB)

252 E. Fort Lee Rd., Bogota, 201-996-1380 Viva Margarita

364 Lawton Ave., Cliffside Park, 551-313-0760

SPANISH El Cid

205 Paramus Rd., Paramus, 201-843-0123

Meson Madrid Restaurant

Massaman Thai Cuisine

Sangria

Pimaan Thai Restaurant (BYOB)

343 Bergen Blvd., Palisades Park, 201-947-1038 1033 MacArthur Blvd., Mahwah, 201-962-3310 Sayola

50 Prospect Ter., Tenafly, 201-871-2182 Tapas De España

7909 Bergenline Ave., North Bergen, 201-453-1690 Taste of Spain

493 Tappan Rd., Northvale, 201-767-8904

THAI Bangkok Garden

261 Main St., Hackensack, 201-487-2620 Clifton Thai

239 Parker Ave., Clifton, 973-253-1400 Chok Dee Thai Kitchen

561 Livingston St., Norwood, 201-750-8880 Gao Thai Kitchen (BYOB)

63 Main St., Ramsey, 201-962-2691

Malee Fine Thai Cuisine (BYOB)

2 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-612-7797

312 Hackensack St., Carlstadt, 201-559-1424 79 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-967-0440 Ridge Thai (BYOB)

50 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-493-9929 Thai West (BYOB)

TURKISH

Turkuaz (BYOB)

1550 Lemoine Ave., Fort Lee, 201-944-1115

Cinar

214 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-523-9284 Hakki Babba (BYOB)

555 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-840-8444

VIETNAMESE Bistro Du Saigon

168 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-592-0100

22 Jefferson Ave., Westwood, 201-497-6981

Hunkar (BYOB)

Ma Mí Eatery

Wyckoff Thai Cuisine

Istanblue Restaurant (BYOB)

645 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-262-4400

Mekong Grill (BYOB)

Istanbul Café & Grill (BYOB)

Pho Miu Vietnamese Restaurant

319 Hackensack St., Carlstadt, 201-507-0606

314 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-485-8855

PERSIAN

14-25 Plaza Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-791-2222

Kabab on the Cliff

Kebab Istanbul

546 Durie Ave., Closter, 201-660-7826 24 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-445-0011 255 Pascack Rd., Township of Washington, 201-497-3915 Saigon Kitchen (BYOB)

Pardis Persian Grill (BYOB)

5819 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Bergen, 201-861-4400 Marmaris Cafe (BYOB)

Simply Vietnamese (BYOB)

Rose (BYOB)

820 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-943-9090 Samdan

TC’s Little Taste of Saigon (BYOB)

23 Godwin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-444-5100 47 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-652-8000 1150 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-569-3600

178 Piermont Rd., Cresskill, 201-816-7343

2024 Center Ave., Fort Lee, 201-592-8890 1 Highwood Ave, Tenafly, 201-568-7770

419 Goffle Rd., Ridgewood, 201-445-5509

Turkish Kitchen

297 Palisade Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-943-7733

Great Foods Market and Catering, located in downtown Oradell, is an established business serving the Bergen County area for over 25 years.

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Off Premise Catering Gift Baskets, Gift Dinners Homemade Soups Gourmet Sandwiches Fresh Baked Pies, Muffins, Cookies & Banana Bread • Chef Prepared Entrees, Sides & Salads • Fresh Seafood & Produce

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BC The Mag WINTER 2019 111

Hope for Children Research Foundation The Hope for Children Research Foundation held their annual sports auction at the Fiesta in Wood-Ridge. For more information, visit www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org.

Art Weiss, Bob Tafuri

Bernard J. Vaughan, Erica Martinez

Tom LaTourette, Michael Bruntz

Neil Miglio, Christopher Bacey

2

Philip and Linda Cennerazzo, Meg Minassian Late Spring 2017

Casey and Dr. John Colaneri

Emil Sudol, William Pentz

Andy Gilard, Jeff and James Leach

Herman Laudicina, Andrew Finch

Craig Kobrin, Timmy Shinn

Elizabeth and James Hyland, Kathleen Price

Rick Davis, Jenna Santacroce, Sarah Esposito, Tabitha Adams

Tyler and Lou Schroeder

Frank and Lucy Competiello

Tom LaTourette, Michael Bruntz

Buddy Walters, Joe Mason, Kyle Gollins, George Mason

Don, Meg and Danny Minassian

Emily and Leeland Newman, Sean Scannell

Julia’s Butterfly Foundation The Julia’s Butterfly Foundation held their annual Butterfly Ball at Macaluso’s in Hawthorne.

For more information, visit www.juliasbutterflyfoundation.org.

Helen and Rachel Sloan

Donna and Joe Warburton

Andrea White, Luke Rasnake

Lisa Scolamacchia, Bill Scarnaty

2

Bernard and Catherine Newman

Abigail LaValle, GraziaAnna Barberi

Kelly Larson, Michelle Cochran

Christine Callahan, Katie Bizub, Gina Hayes, Deborah O’Donovan Late Spring 2017

Melissa and Patty Peyko

Nick and Renee Squire

Jason and Natalie Reska, Maggie and Michael Zozzaro

Amy Ring, Marilyn Tolerico

Leslie Carter, Patrice Scully

Suzanne and John Campion

Cameron Rasnake, Christine Callahan

Kathy and Maurice Oppenheimer

Lori Thimmel, Nick Scavone, Haley Thimmel

LAST LAUGH

’ve always hated the week after New Year’s, considering it the true low after the high. The gym is abuzz with people who think this year will be different than the previous one.

They spent the last month overeating as if the world was about to end soon. Why? Because they promised themselves that, for once, they would actually stick to their guns and commit to living the healthier lifestyle they always dreamed of. All the junk food will be tossed from the pantry, so we better finish it before it goes to waste (or waist)!

Once that glorious ball drops and a new year begins, I begin a countdown of my own. I ruthlessly observe the failing attempts of others to carry out what was sure to fail in the first place, their resolution. (On a side note, I don’t actually do that. I wish you all the greatest success in anything you put your mind to, and in no way, shape or form, receive pleasure from your failure.)

It’s just that the word “resolution” always gets to me. Resolution? Are we the United Nations? Then again, even the United Nations can’t create a resolution its members can uphold, so why should we be held to higher standards?

So, I came up with a little pun of my own on New Year’s resolution, or as I like to call it: revolution.

Revolution is bold; revolution is life changing.

There are serious implications to revolution, and serious thought must be devoted to it before it is ever acted upon. It may sound dramatic, but hey, the change you want to see in yourself is dramatic too, right?

This year, create goals that are not only realistically reachable, but require a great deal of personal change to make them happen. Understand your strengths; recognize your weaknesses, and then smash them all into little pieces. Otherwise you’re likely to set easily attainable goals based on what you’re already good at doing, and avoid goals that will actually be difficult to re ach. Yet it is those hard-to-reach goals that will ultimately grant you the most gratifying results.

Before I competed in a Spartan Race a few years ago, which, at the time, was my revolutionary goal to complete as I had never done anything like it before, I had to take a hard look in the mirror and figure out what I needed to do in order to avoid totally embarrassing myself. Of course, my thorough self-evaluation left me feeling less than confident, underscoring the many months of hard, habit-breaking work that would be required to get me into the kind of shape where I wouldn’t make a complete fool of myself.

I took a look at pictures from previous Spartan Races to try to determine what types of activities I’d have to tackle. From this I realized there was one critical necessity: being able to carry your own body weight – up mountains, up ropes, up walls, on monkey bars.

Before this, I would have considered myself in decent shape.

I

114 BC The Mag WINTER 2019

A

s ’ r a e Y w N e i on t u l o v Re on Gold

By Brand

stein

After all, I went to the gym regularly. But then I realized something: while I did go the gym, once there, I avoided things I didn’t want to do, and just did more of the exercises in my comfort zone. For instance, I hated pull-ups and rationalized my avoidance by asking myself, “Why would I ever need to do pull-ups?” Well, it turns out when you’re in a mud pit and the only way out is a 30-foot rope, you need to pull yourself up, and so my gym pull-up sessions began.

Six months later, I proudly wore the Spartan Race medal around my neck, having finished in an above average time, and a hell of a lot better than I would have been able to do half a year earlier. Even more important, I was able to climb that damn rope. Something I had never been able to do in my entire life.

So, there you have it. Resolution seemed to be a point of compromise, whereas revolution was a direct, more difficult, but ultimately much more rewarding path to achieving the goals I had set for myself.

With 2019 freshly upon us, I hope I’ll still see you at the gym in three months. ¡Viva la revolución!

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