HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY
MEDICAL CENTER
TOP 20 IN THE NATION.
#1* IN NY-NJ METRO AREA.
As New Jersey’s first hospital ranked among the Top 20 in the nation and the #1* hospital in the NY-NJ metro area, you will always find one of the most clinically recognized hospitals, right here in New Jersey, at Hackensack University Medical Center.
NJ’s only nationally ranked hospital in:
•
Pulmonology
Geriatrics
Neurology & Neurosurgery
Cancer Ear, Nose & Throat
Nationally ranked in: Diabetes & Endocrinology
Gastroenterology
Orthopedics
Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery
Urology
A UTHORIZED DEALERS OF FINE WATCHES
Fall 2025
Publishers
Sharon & Steven Goldstein
Associate Publisher
Brandon Goldstein
Editorial Director
Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo
Art Director
BMG Marketing
Contributing Writers
Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo
Soneca Guadara
Marilyn Katzman
Lori Nittoli
Richard Posluszny
Kimberly Redmond
Brianna Ruback
Mary Ann Treger
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) 694-5196.
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Copyright 2025. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.
A Letter from the Editor
Every evening, after the last dish is dried and the counters are cleared, I strike a match and light a candle. It’s a small gesture, but it feels like my way of saying, “That’s it, the day is done.” With that soft glow, I can almost hear the house exhale and my body soften into the evening.
Funny enough, I’ve noticed I do the same thing at my desk each morning. Before diving into emails, before the deadlines, I light a candle there too. It’s become my little ritual, a signal to my brain: the shift from distraction to focus, from everyday noise to intentional work.
Fall, with its early sunsets and cooler nights, is the season when candlelight feels most at home. It invites us to notice the glow in simple things – the warmth of a meal, the beauty of transition, the comfort of ritual.
Candles have become my ritual, my punctuation marks – the periods that close a chapter and the commas that invite me to pause. The flame doesn’t do the work for me, nor does it solve the messiness of life. But it reminds me that ritual has power.
That a small act, repeated with care, can bring grounding and meaning no matter how chaotic the world outside feels (and it’s felt pretty chaotic lately, hasn’t it?).
Maybe for you it’s not lighting a candle, but taking a morning walk, brewing tea in the afternoon or calling a friend before bed. Whatever it is, those little markers remind us that our days aren’t just a blur of tasks – they’re lived moments worth noticing.
As you move through this fall season, I hope you find your own small sparks, those daily moments that help you mark the thresholds in your life.
Here’s to light, however and wherever we find it.
Warmly, Jessica HumpHrey-cintineo
ENGLEWOOD HEALTH FOUNDATION
The Englewood Health Foundation held their annual golf outing at Ridgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.englewoodhealthfoundation.org.
Lynne and Andie Zaikov Mark Shirvan, Jason Fiore
Hyung Kee Oh, Tom Senter
Debra Albanese, Brian McCoy
Robert Holzer, James Harris
Harry Hahn, Pat Avallone, Erik Polyzou, John Capazzi
Min Song, Sam Joe, Lawrence Kim
Dr. Robert Doidge, Mark Fable
Sam Tansley, Christopher Capuzzi
Rich Lambert, Mark Spivak
Brendan Walsh, Sal Di Benedetto
Mitchell Peskin, Andrew Sepulveda
Juan Gonzalez, Ruben Ramirez
Mark Blatt, Mitch Gutter, Amy Shirvan
Thomas Migliaccio, John Curran
Tony Orlando, Jim Spanarkel
FOR A CENTURY, WE’VE BEEN INFORMED BY SCIENCE AND INSPIRED BY PURPOSE.
We’ve been combining precision with compassion for 100 years. Constantly advancing our knowledge to deliver exceptional care. Every step is guided by a commitment to improving lives — because medicine isn’t just about what we know, but why we do it: for you.
PARAMUS ROTARY GOLF OUTING
The Paramus Rotary held their annual golf outing at the Edgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.paramusrotary.org.
Eddie Condello, Tom Kazimir
Jay Leone, Debbie Cibelli
Carl Carfello, Jay Leone
Ray Hough, Dawn Feorenzo
Jaime Arlia, Tina Tilyou Steve and Matt Stafford, Chad Houser
Carl Carfello, Jay Leone, Jim and George Kourgelis
Jim Cullinane, Joe Brescia, Michael O’Connell
Jean Jadevaia, Diane Vasile-Falcone
Michael Bush, Chris, George, Jim, and Niko Kourgelis, Sean Donnelly
Kevin Behnke, Joe Conte
Jeff Lotosky, Ernie Windfuhr, Brian and Kevin Smith, Brian Rickert
Mark Rodrick, Len Rabinowitz
Jim Stafford, Ed Lang
Sean Curry, Charlie and Chris Weaver
Tommy Scuderi Jr., Dan Kacsmar
RED CARPET WARRIORS
The Red Carpet Warriors Foundation held their annual event at Bottagra Restaurant. For more information, visit www.redcarpetwarriors.com.
Cheri Ann and Marco Santini
Ralph, Lucia, Patti and Isabella Lauretta
Gokcen and Serhat Sahin
Kim Gerena, Joey Mazza, Maria Chomenko
Tovy Silver, Marni Strauss
Jamie DeLaura, Jessica Wells, Stephanie Morris
Patti and Isabella Lauretta Ryan and Michelle McCooe, Lisa Johnson, Andrea Decchione
Kristen Capozza, Kristina Knezezic
Christina Kindler, Jaime Rivers, Jennifer Luzzi
Pedro Santos, Maria Chomenko,
Jessica Santos, Kim Gerena
Jessica Myers, Kim Gerena, Paula Corrieri, Maria Chomenko
Joe and Stephanie Agnello
Madison and Jessica Myers Roxanna and Veronica Irizarry
Blaise Benevenga, Sal Rametta
MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATIONS
The Hackensack University Medical Center and Palisades Medical Center Foundations held their annual golf outing at Ridgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org.
Josh Thomson, Chris Rotio
Frank Fekete, Robert Garrett
Rich Henning, John Capazzi
Rich Knupp, Dr. Lisa Tank, Dr. Joe Underwood
Kevin Schenone, John Capazzi
Dr. Sanjeev Patel, Dr. Rick Winters
Meryl Conte Clayton, Laura Garrett
John Leighton, Sean Featherstone, Chris Kourgelis
David and Justin Potack, Jerry and Greg Iannone
Allan Stewart, Sam Wright
Nick Cangialosi, Greg Iannone
Chamberlain
Gary Wilhelm, Sean Scott, Zeeshan Khan, Joe Clemons
Ralph Corrado, Steven Salemme, Marlon Medrano, Daniel Geroski
Mark Sparta, Larry Inserra
Rich Chamberlain, Larry Inserra, Rich Chamberlain Jr.
Rich
Jr., Marie Tevis
VALLEY HOSPITAL AUXILIARY SPRING LUNCHEON
The Valley Hospital Auxiliary held their spring luncheon in Tuxedo Park. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.
Claudine Callison, Maria Harper Gael Strohmeyer, Anna Hyman, Susan Turk, Melissa Raspantini
Donna Singer, Karen Hoy, Bette Moore, Elaine Heimberger
Vicky Nguyen, Mirlana Morris
Mary DeMatteo, Daphne Sidiropoulos
Soneca Guadara, Daphne Sidiropoulos
Sandy Carapezza, David Bohan, Patricia Stark
Dominika Kim, Nina Boral, Lynn Gildea
Anna Brodley, Pooja Kumar, Diane Brown
Right,
Patricia
Susan Nuzzolo, Dina Sturtevant, Rachel Sibella, Gina Heuck
Suneeta Dewan, Alka Chandra, Nancy Bush, Vinod Chadha, Pooja Kumar
Family of Caring NJ Team
David Bohan, Sandy Carapezza, Mirlana Morris, Robin Goldfisher
Deany Rubin, Kathy Nardella, Bettina Daly, Megan Fraser
Left,
Center Moms Crew (partial)
Davis Bohan,
Stark, Vicky Nguyen, Pooja Kumar, Sandy Carapezza
bergenPAC in collaboration with Bergen New Bridge Medical Center
Through the Lens of Life
By KiMBerly redMond
Susan Teplinsky Captures It All
As a photographer specializing in family, engagement and portrait work, Susan Teplinsky is focused on freezing some of life’s sweetest memories.
A Fair Lawn native, Teplinsky has taken pictures of many “Yes, I’ll marry you!” moments, women who have beaten cancer and entrepreneurs who are starting their own business.
Of the nearly 1,000 sessions she has done over the last eight years, the 31-year-old regards each as “its own beautiful, fleeting moment in time.”
From family portraits to author headshots to branding shots, she loves being able to give clients the ability to look back at photos and remember how they felt during a particular milestone. Teplinsky also believes in the importance of celebrating oneself during a moment of achievement, whether it be launching a new business venture, finally finishing that book or graduating from college.
“I have photographed families who have then lost their matriarch, families that have lost their patriarch – allowing me to think back to our last shoot and appreciate that they have those photos forever.
I have photographed families who have gone on to miscarry, and then I have photographed their rainbow baby. These sessions are more than aesthetic outfits and smiling children, they are legacies,” Teplinsky said.
And she’s thrilled to be there to capture it all.
Beyond that, Teplinsky values the connections she makes with clients and enduring relationships her work has led to. For example, one of Teplinsky’s best friends started as a last-minute Facebook inquiry after a photographer cancelled just two days before a 2021 shoot due to COVID.
“I am forever grateful to have found my love for photography,” she said. Continued on Page 24
After graduating in 2016 from Rutgers Business School with a marketing degree, Teplinsky accepted a full-time position as an associate project manager at AKQA, an award-winning global design and innovation agency whose client roster includes companies like Verizon, IBM, Mayo Clinic and Volvo.
From there, she went on to work at tech companies like Droga5, Twitter/X, and currently, as a senior client account manager at Reddit, Inc.
After hours, Teplinsky is busy behind the camera. Teplinsky’s first foray into photography was in 2017, when her older sister, Eleonora, asked for some pictures of her 3-month-old daughter as a Valentine’s Day gift for her husband. After that, she found it hard to stop snapping.
Though Teplinsky had a point-and-shoot camera in hand since her elementary school days and knew how to take photos, she didn’t decide to pursue it professionally until then.
From there, Teplinsky got active on social media looking for other parents who may want something similar and used Facebook as a vessel to find clients.
Originally, she did a mixture of everything – from bridal showers to weddings to baptisms – but wound up shifting to family shoots, engagements and portraits after determining event photography was not for her.
As she has grown her side hustle thanks to a combination of social media and word of mouth, Teplinsky
has developed a reputation for her upbeat attitude, hard work and fast turnaround.
In a review, one client described her as his “go-to photographer for all future promo shoots for my business.”
“I can attest to her professionalism, her attention to detail and her ability to get the job done the right way. She really knows how to discover the perfect moments from a photoshoot, capturing both raw emotions and authentic vibes,” he wrote.
Another praised Teplinsky as a “photographer who puts in their maximum effort to get their clients’ vision across in photos.”
“My whole experience from start to end was nothing short of amazing. She listened to all my requests, gave me her brutal honest opinion on everything, from the outfits I wanted to wear, to the scenery I envisioned for the shoot, everything she was so help-
ful with,” they said. “She made the whole experience so much fun, we laughed the whole session. And the outcome of my photos was everything I wanted and more. Overall, such a memorable experience and I couldn’t have picked anyone better.”
A mother described the “amazing job” Teplinsky did doing her daughter’s first birthday shoot. Besides knowing a great spot at Goffle Brook Park in Hawthorne, Teplinsky “was patient with our daughter who was, of course, not in the mood to smile,” she wrote.
“She sang funny songs and put a puppet on her hand to get our daughter giggling. And she put us in a lot of great positions and captured great moments that we will have forever,” she said.
Teplinsky believes her attention to detail and outspokenness is what sets her apart from other photographers.
Continued on Page 26
“If you’ve ever done a shoot with me, you’d know two things – I will seek out every hair tie, ensure your pockets are empty, that every hair strand falls perfectly into place and your necklace clasp is not in the front – details, details, details!” she said. “And, if I don’t like something or if something doesn’t look good, I’ll let you know. I don’t believe in pretending everything looks great if a few changes could make it better.”
As more of a niche photographer, Teplinsky said she focuses “only on the types of sessions that I can bring to life beautifully because of my expertise and experience.” That means there are some inquiries she’ll turn down.
For instance, Teplinsky declined a request to do an underwater maternity shoot.
“I had no plans to take my business in that direction nor did I know the first thing about underwater photography,” she explained.
That doesn’t mean she shies away from a challenge. Though not having a studio makes it difficult to find outdoor settings in the New Jersey-New York area during the winter months, Teplinsky said she always tries to find ways to be creative and offer up. Seasonality won’t be an issue for at least the next two years, however.
Recently she packed her camera up and headed to the West Coast, where her fiancée, Michael Basin, is pursuing a urologic oncology fellowship at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. Teplinsky has been returning to New Jersey once a month to visit her parents, grandmother, two older sisters and their families, though.
During the couple’s stint in California, Teplinsky plans on continuing growing her business.
“I am so excited for a new landscape to explore shooting in,” she said.
For more information, visit www.susanteplinskyphotography.com.
VALLEY HOSPITAL AUXILIARY GOLF
The Valley Hospital Auxiliary held their annual golf outing at Ridgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.
David Bohan, Greg Nejmeh
John Alfano, Jackie Menechino
Stacy Haldeman, Holly Madara
Cassie Homeyer, Bridget Goryeb
The Valley Hospital Auxiliary Golf Committee
Russell Pucci, Ken Morris
Michael Will, Lafe Bush, Joseph Ventrella
Carol Gillespie, Elaine Heimberger
Raina Arnos, Courtney Grill
Brian McGovern, Brad Bedell
Keith Poskitt, Marc Graham
Kristi Stark, Valerie Santanasto, Mary Lynn Kearns
Greg Nejmeh, Joe Lorino, David Bohan, Ed Rubin
Sandy Carapezza, Bonnie Dalal
Keith Fallon, Peter Cacace
Diana Frankel, John Alfano, Jackie Menechino
Where Art Meets Home
Bergen County’s Own Art Basel
By lori nittoli
Step inside The Art of Home Showhouse in Upper Saddle River and you’ll discover a custom home beautifully woven with a living gallery of design, art and imagination. Aspire design and home magazine has reimagined the breathtaking 13,000-squarefoot estate as a world-class designer showhouse, which is open to the public now through the end of October. Every room has been transformed by leading designers into a statement of style, layered with curated works of art from around the globe. The result is a one-of-a-kind experience that feels as exclusive as it is inviting, where luxury furnishings, innovative finishes and blue-chip artwork converge under one roof.
This immersive experience for the senses launched Sept. 17 with an Opening Night Gala that drew design lovers and cultural tastemakers. Guests toured the home for the very first time, sipped signature cocktails and dined on elevated hors d’oeuvres before gathering for a rare performance: Tony Yazbeck, Tony-nominated Broadway star (On the Town, Flying Over Sunset), singing and tap-dancing live in the Great Room.
Steve Mandel, CEO and publisher of aspire design and home magazine, is the visionary behind this project. He likens the showhouse to “Art Basel in Upper Saddle River,” an upscale, exclusive showcase where philanthropy meets design at the highest level. Having led dozens of Art of the Home showhouses nationwide, Mandel has built a platform that not only raises awareness and funds for important charities but also unveils the latest in luxury living. Each showhouse highlights worldclass interior designers and introduces custom, new-release home furnishings and finishes, offering guests a first look at the innovations shaping the future of design.
Proceeds from The Art of Home Showhouse in USR benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the nationally recognized nonprofit which, since 9/11, supports military service members, first responders and their families. For Mandel, aligning the showhouse with such a meaningful cause is part of what makes the project resonate beyond design. Continued on Page 32
“It’s about more than extraordinary rooms or worldclass art,” he says. “It’s about giving back in a way that has a lasting impact.”
Donald Christiansen, founder and principal of Chelsea Art Group in Bergen County, has spent more than three decades immersed in Modern and Contemporary art.
“My passion has been understanding different art movements and their place in history, and I feel so fortunate to merge the two in this incredible Jeanott custom home, thanks to aspire design and home magazine and the talented artists, galleries and designers who participated.”
The showhouse features more than 80 exceptional works curated by Christiansen and his associate Josiah Hendra; an international collection with artists hailing from Indonesia, China, Brazil, and beyond. Every piece is “blue chip,” the caliber one would encounter at major art fairs such as Art Basel, Frieze or The Armory Show. To bring the vision to life, Christiansen collaborated closely with each designer, matching their aesthetic and thematic goals with artists who shared their sensibilities. The result is an immersive dialogue between art and design that elevates every space.
Anna Maria Mannarino, NJ-based Mannarino Designs, is no stranger to the showhouse world. This
marks her 24th showhouse, and her sixth with aspire design and home. For this project, she transformed the screening room, infusing it with a modern take on old Hollywood glamour. The space is anchored by Vik Muniz’s New York Movie at the back of the theater, while custom wall-mounted sconces double as speakers, blending form and function in an inventive way. Mannarino’s work spans residential, corporate and hospitality design, but her artistry doesn’t end there. She is also a recorded jazz singer and delivered one of the evening’s highlights, performing “Almost Like Being in Love” alongside Broadway star Tony Yazbeck accompanied by a golden grand Steinway, crafted specifically for the Great Room.
Dorka Standard, of DStandard Home, has long collaborated with the builder, Jeannot Custom Homes, on design and selections, so joining The Art of Homeshowhouse was a natural step.
“I was invited to join the showhouse, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made,” she says. “What makes this project so special is the chance to design spaces that are both visually striking and inviting.”
In the kitchen, she introduced a banquette that flows seamlessly with the cabinetry, a detail that creates warmth and a sense of ease. Standard’s minimalist, sensory-driven style is rooted in balance and comfort. While she doesn’t live in Bergen County, she considers it a second home: most of her projects are here, as are many of her closest friends.
“Being part of this showhouse feels both personal and professional, allowing me to contribute to a community that has become so important to me,” she adds.
Tammy Bolden of Bold Interior Design transformed three distinct spaces – the laundry and dog wash, the
mudroom and the powder room – and collectively refers to them as “We Are The World” for their diverse cultural inspirations. The laundry room evokes European elegance with Venetian plaster and a hand-chipped marble dog wash. The mudroom draws from the earthiness of an African market with basket light fixtures, a natural fiber rug and cabinetry inlaid with laser-cut brass. The powder room shifts tone entirely, with a moody, Asian-inspired atmosphere featuring hand-chipped basalt tile reminiscent of a serene garden landscape. Bolden’s journey to this showhouse was serendipitous: she ran into aspire’s Steve Mandel while crossing the street at High Point Market last year, who invited her to join. Having previously participated in a Hudson Valley showhouse for Ronald McDonald House, she describes this project as an intense labor of love.
Beyond its role as a showcase for design and art, the showhouse is also envisioned as a community gathering place. While it’s open, organizations and businesses are invited to host intimate events, private dinners, or meetings within its walls. The goal is to create a dynamic flow of people – including those who might not ordinarily seek out art and design – and give them the opportunity to experience the home in an inspiring new way. It’s an elegant backdrop for connection and conversation, ensuring the showhouse leaves an impression as meaningful as it is memorable.
For details on visiting the showhouse, planning an event or exploring the opportunity to make this home your own, visit aspiremetro.com/showhouses/usr/ or email don@chelseaartgroup.com. Follow on Instagram @chelseaartgroup and @aspiredesignandhome.
To support Tunnel to Towers, visit T2T.org.
For the Love of the Game, Made by Local Hands
By Marilyn KatzMan
While Major League Baseball produces some 2 million balls a year for the league’s 29 teams, there’s a more personalized production of balls taking place in Bergen County. In Costa Rica, Rawlings Sporting Goods handcrafts about 50,000 balls a week for the league since a typical game can use over 100 balls. In Glen Rock, however, Leather Head Sports is also handcrafting balls, but on a much smaller scale. The company focuses on individual enthusiasts, gift givers and lovers of sports nostalgia.
Paul Cunningham, the founder of Leather Head, grew up in Cooperstown, N.Y., home of the Baseball Hall of Fame. He became interested in vintage-style baseballs with a lemon peel style of stitching after working in the museum archives and participating in recreations of historic games. Today, Leather Head’s staff of five proudly responds to custom requests for “lemon baseballs,” as well as soccer, basketball and footballs. Customer Paul DeStaso, for example, said he has ordered personalized baseball-related gifts for milestones in his children’s Little League or school team careers.
A photo on the workshop wall shows President Barack Obama presenting a ball made by Leatherhead to Kobe Bryant. Cunningham said he was contacted by the White House when the former president wanted an American-made product to be available in the White House Gift Shop. Another special photo on the wall features a GQ Magazine cover photo of LeBron James with a unique gold basketball made in Glen Rock.
Workshop pegboards are crammed for easy access to an array of tools, like awls, hole punchers, utility knives, leather mallets, rulers, measuring tapes and more. Another board has a variety of colored threads to choose from, and assorted rolls of leather peek out from a closet, waiting to be cut. A basket holds footballs waiting for repairs that involve replacing the internal bladder and adding new stitching.
Approximately 700,000 official NFL footballs are made each year by Wilson Sporting Goods, including 228 for the Super Bowl and others for consumers, such as youth sports teams. Wilson also makes basketballs for the NBA and WNBA. While some
balls are made in the U.S., most are assembled in other countries such as China and Thailand.
Individual orders at Leather Head are made from cowhide and start at $45. But unique orders for collectors who may want a ball made of snakeskin, for example, can cost as much as $1,200.
“Limited Release” balls, like a red leather ball promoted around Halloween, are also available in small amounts.
“Most of our custom requests are for balls to display or toss around, not for competitive play,” Cunningham noted.
Other interesting orders have included mini basketballs for Crate & Barrel, private label footballs for the Shinola Detroit watch company and team balls for an ESPN documentary. The U.S. State Department recently ordered basketballs to distribute to world leaders at a recent NATO summit.
The research firm “Market Size and Trends” reports that the size of the team sports ball market is projected to reach $14.2 billion by 2030 due to increased participation in team sports and international events like the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics, as well as an ongoing alignment of sports with lifestyle and fitness trends. Cunningham also predicts his business will experience a growing interest in sports balls.
Five Decades of BMW in America
Bergen County Powers the Ride
By lori nittoi
For 50 years, BMW has been more than a car company to American drivers. It has been a symbol of performance, precision and passion. Now, as the brand celebrates its half-century in the U.S., it’s accelerating into a bold new chapter, one that starts right here in Bergen County.
The newly reimagined North American headquarters in Montvale is a showcase of BMW’s design philosophy, a hub for innovation and a cultural statement. It is where history meets the future, where sustainability meets style, and where Bergen County proudly hosts one of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Continued
Reimagining the HQ
Architect Allan Nissenbaum, who led the redesign, describes the project as “an exercise in both respect for history and vision for the future.” What once stood as a dealership-based structure has been completely reimagined into an open, collaborative environment that reflects BMW’s forward-facing philosophy.
Sustainability was the guiding principle. Highlights include: an impressive 60 percent of materials were salvaged and repurposed instead of sent to landfill; the entire campus now runs on all electric power with EV infrastructure built in; and traditional desks have
Adding to the overall vision, the themes, colors and mural graphics for each zone were chosen by the HQ associates themselves, representing the NY/NJ Metro area.
A Leader’s Perspective
For Sebastian Mackensen, president and CEO of BMW North America, the new headquarters is more than bricks and glass. It’s a statement of where the brand is today.
given way to flex zones for collaboration, focus and recharging.
“With a workforce of 1,300, we wanted to create a place that was sleek, functional and people-centered,” Nissenbaum said. “From curated installations by art students to panoramic work zones, the building reflects both BMW’s global identity and Bergen County’s community spirit.”
“BMW U.S. is our second home,” Mackensen said. “This headquarters embodies that idea. Innovation is rooted in community, and global vision meets local pride.”
Mackensen’s career has taken him through Porsche, Audi, MINI and now BMW. At every stop, his leadership has been marked by trust, integrity and collaboration.
“Trust acts as an accelerator in the workplace, fostering positivity and communication,” he notes. “Respect is a key component in understanding the different roles of each associate and finding the value in what they bring to the table.”
The simplest principle of integrity is just to “give it your all.”
“It’s like sports,” he said with a smile. “Winning together is always better than winning alone.”
As for BMW’s future in the U.S., Mackensen doesn’t mince words: electrification is the road ahead. By 2026, one in five BMWs sold in America will be electric or hybrid. Upcoming models – such as the iX3 and the groundbreaking Neue Klasse – will redefine not only how cars drive, but how people connect with them.
“The future of luxury isn’t just about horsepower,” Mackensen noted. “It’s about creating an emotional connection, enhanced by digital features, while staying true to the joy of driving.”
Bergen County: More Than a Backdrop
BMW’s connection to Bergen County runs deeper than geography. The company bolsters the local economy through jobs and partnerships and invests in the community through programs ranging from workforce development to student art installations and internships.
Even the streets reflect its presence: the road leading to the HQ was renamed in BMW’s honor.
“We aren’t merely a company in the neighborhood, but rather, a part of the neighborhood,” Nissenbaum said.
50 Years and Counting
This anniversary marks both a milestone and a launchpad. SUVs dominate BMW’s U.S. sales, electrification is accelerating, and Bergen County is at the center of it all.
Asked what success will look like five years from
Continued on Page 42
now, Mackensen was clear: “BMW will always be about the joy of driving. Our role in America is evolving and not just as a carmaker, but as a lifestyle brand and thought leader. That’s what excites me most.”
Spotlight: Neue Klasse Debuts the Future of Driving
BMW’s golden anniversary in the U.S. is also the perfect moment to look at the road ahead. In September 2025, at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich, BMW debuted the all-new iX3 – the first of its revolutionary Neue Klasse models. This launch delivers a bold glimpse into the next generation of BMW design, cutting-edge technology and signature driving performance. One of the highlights is a first-ofits-kind user interface – a bold leap in how drivers experience their cars.
At its heart of this new system is the BMW Panoramic iDrive, powered by the all-new Operating System X. Together, they create a driver-focused experience that is intuitive, intelligent and futuristic.
The system brings four innovations to the forefront:
•Panoramic Vision: A head-up display stretching across the windshield, visible to all passengers.
•3D HeadUp Display: Realtime navigation cues layered directly in the driver’s field of vision.
•Central Display with QuickSelect: A customizable, swipe friendly interface.
•Multifunction Steering Wheel: Smart but tons that illuminate only when needed, keeping attention on the road.
Operating System X learns from driver behavior, adapts to preferences and integrates AI-powered voice commands. With it, BMW is setting a new benchmark for luxury mobility. The BMW iX3, which arrives in the U.S. market toward the middle of 2026, will be the first to carry this system – ushering in a new era of luxury, sustainability and digital innovation. Over the next two years, the automaker will launch nearly 40 new and refreshed models featuring the new design language and technology of the Neue Klasse.
Final Gearshift
BMW’s Montvale HQ is both a striking new campus and a declaration of intent. As the company reflects on 50 years in America, one thing is clear: Bergen County isn’t just part of the story, it’s in the driver’s seat for the road ahead.
Or, as Mackensen summed it up: “This isn’t just a look back. It’s a powerful look forward.”
THE MACALLAN SCOTCH AND CIGAR DINNER
The Annual Macallan Scotch and Cigar Dinner benifiting Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge was held at The Brick House in Wyckoff.
Susan Reilly Larson, Brandon Goldstein
William Frasse, Ken Van Peenen
Joe Zisa, Richard La Barbiera
Nick Sans, Steve Sans, Kevin Pasini, Bryant Srour
Chris Homan, Stewart Krell, Keith Cedro
Donnalee Corrieri, Erin Myers, Judith Wright
Seamus McMurray, Ed Kalpagian
Vinny Cannariato, Daniel Kalyoussef
Nick Cangialosi, Jason and Sharon Destro
Antonio Zlatis, Colin and Brendan Heafy
Mario Fernandez, Ron Vergona
Sharon Goldstein, Diane Chessin, Michelle Conte, Debbie Cangialosi
Noel Albert, David Paulan
Assad Daibes, Alex and Eli Tanous
Mario Fernandez, Nicky, Ronnie and Rob Vergona
Brandon Goldstein, Aldo Cascio, Steven Goldstein
Fall’s Effortless Chic
How to Transition Your Wardrobe Without Overthinking It
By SoneCa guadara
The first crisp morning of the season always arrives with a little thrill. You grab a sweater, sip a pumpkin spice latte and imagine yourself wrapped in layers of cashmere and wool. But the reality is the afternoons are still warm, what I like to call Indian Summer. Your closet is still a mix of sundresses and sandals, and you’re wondering how to bridge the gap without buying an entirely new wardrobe.
The good news: fall style doesn’t have to be complicated. Transitioning your look can be as simple as layering strategically, playing with color and mixing textures. Here’s how to ease into autumn feeling chic, comfortable and completely yourself. Here are five tips to help you put together that transitional wardrobe.
1. Start with Transitional Layers
Think of your favorite summer pieces as the foundation. Lightweight dresses, linen trousers and silk blouses can all work well into fall with the right outerwear. Add a structured blazer for instant polish; a light trench coat or duster for breezy days; and a denim or leather jacket for a touch of edge.
Pro Tip: Keep layers thin but add warmth with textures – think cotton under cashmere, silk under wool.
I love layering, so it should go without saying that I love picking the best fall jackets. The classic trench coat is a go-to. I’m teaming it with a whiteT-shirt and a pair of mid-wash jeans to keep my finished look feeling elevated.
2. Swap Colors, Not Your Entire Closet
Autumn isn’t just about chunky knits – it’s about the colors that make you feel cozy. Shift your palette from summer brights to deeper jewel tones, warm neutrals and earthy shades.
• Trade white denim for cream or camel.
• Switch pastels for burgundy, forest green or navy.
• Ground light skirts with chocolate brown or black accessories.
White skirts are a summer staple or in this case a white dress, but they can work just as well in the fall. Add in a preppy striped tee and a pair of sneakers (Nike makes some of the best, in my humble opinion) and you have a cool outfit perfect for hotter early-fall days.
3. Play With Textures
Fall is the season of tactile delight. Pair airy fabrics with richer ones to give your look depth without adding bulk.
• Silk slip dress + chunky cardigan.
• Linen trousers + suede loafers.
• Cotton blouse + tweed blazer.
• Linen Pant + Chambray button-up shirt and a cashmere sweater. (No, you don’t have to pack your linen pants after Labor Day!)
The mix says “seasonally stylish” without feeling too heavy. Breathable fabrics are still the key to nailing this aesthetic!
4. Update Accessories First
If you do nothing else, swap out your summer accessories for fall-ready ones:
• Structured handbags instead of straw totes.
• Ankle boots in place of sandals.
• Scarf – silk for warmer days, wool for cooler ones.
Accessories can shift your outfit’s mood faster than a closet overhaul.
5. Keep It Easy - One Hero Piece at a Time
If you’re not sure where to start, choose one standout fall item – like a plaid coat, statement boots or a great hat – and build around it. The rest of your outfit can stay simple. This keeps your look intentional without feeling forced.
Fall is about layering warmth without layering stress. When you stop overthinking, your style feels freer – like the leaves changing naturally with the season. Keep your summer favorites in rotation, blend in autumn’s richness, and let the season inspire you, not overwhelm you. Because when you feel comfortable and confident, that is effortless chic. It doesn’t need to be complicated at all.
Soneca Guadara is the founder and CEO of Style by Soneca. Making everyday style simple, for leaders, professionals and anyone who feels stuck and wants to standout.
You can follow her on Instagram @StyledbySoneca for more tips.
Elevating Events & Capturing Candids
Hackensack Photo Booth Business Helps Clients
By Brianna ruBaCK
That said, you do have to be mindful of the engine you select and the trim levels as pricing reaches into
In January 2024, Julissa Velez attended a Sweet 16 party and noticed one key attraction that sparked joy for guests of all ages: the photo booth.
During the party, the Bergenfield resident saw how this engaging activity became the event’s focal point, bringing people together, including those who didn’t know each other well. Because of this night, Velez realized she wanted to start a business that helps people capture unforgettable memories during life’s most important celebrations.
At the end of December 2024, Velez, who currently works full-time as a pediatric coordinator at Hackensack University Medical Center, started her LLC: Luvlissa Photobooth & Entertainment. By the first week of January 2025, the business owner already had bookings.
“It’s something I always thought about, and I [was] like, ‘You know what, I’m going to take the chance. I’m going to invest.’ And then I did it.”
the added space gets two thumbs up from me.
sey and New York, with one of the more unique options being a roaming photo booth. This interactive service consists of a portable photo booth device that a photographer moves throughout an event space to capture candid moments, whether guests are on the dance floor or at the dinner table.
Then, there is the standalone digital photo station – an iPad setup complete with a backdrop of choice and a prop table filled with various items, such as playful sunglasses, hats and signs. Both the roaming and standalone photo booths allow guests to instantly share their photos via text, email or social media.
The third service Velez offers isn’t centered on snapping physical memories but is instead built on recording them. Using an audio guestbook, event attendees can pick up a vintage-style phone and leave a kind message for the guest of honor. Velez said this service is especially popular for baby showers.
Continued on Page 50 74 | Spring 2023
Velez offers multiple services for events in New Jer-
Although Luvlissa is under a year old, Velez has already experienced notable success. While working at her first big event, a 40th birthday party at the Graycliff in Moonachie, the business owner booked four clients that same day.
“I feel like I’m bringing spice – a little something extra for the clients. And it makes me happy to make them happy,” she said.
Velez shared that, in addition to the roaming photo booth being a unique aspect of her business, it’s the way she and her three employees connect with their clients that sets Luvlissa apart, highlighting their “big personalities.”
Being a business owner while balancing a full-time job is no easy feat, but for Velez, her “passion for creating memorable experiences continues to drive [her].” Since starting Luvlissa, she has worked 25 events, noting
that with each one, her “dedication grows stronger.”
Looking ahead, Velez hopes to make Luvlissa her full-time job and be able to accept every client that comes her way. Among her goals for the future, she strives to own and rent out a venue featuring her services and expand them to include other offerings like popcorn and candy machines.
“This is my passion. This is really what I want to do. I love making memories last,” Velez said. “Unfortunately, life is short sometimes. And just having those memories with our grandma or somebody who passed away, it’s just really important.”
For more information on Luvlissa Photobooth & Entertainment, visit www.luvlissa.com or @luvlissa on Instagram.
RCheers to 40 Years
Café Panache Marks Four Decades
By JeSSiCa huMphrey-Cintineo
enowned New Jersey dining destination Café Panache is proud to celebrate its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of culinary excellence, innovation and warm hospitality. To honor the momentous occasion, the restaurant offered a $40 three-course prix fixe menu on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings throughout August, featuring beloved dishes from the original July 1985 menu, when Café Panache first opened its doors.
In addition, Café Panache launched a heartfelt “40 Days of Kevin Kohler and Café Panache” campaign across its Instagram and Facebook pages. The series celebrates the life, talent and legacy of the late Chef/ Owner Kevin Kohler, whose culinary vision shaped Café Panache into one of New Jersey’s most celebrated restaurants.
Since 1985, Café Panache has earned acclaim for its seasonally inspired, Modern American cuisine rooted in classic French technique. As a BYOB establishment with an unwavering commitment to quality, hospitality and atmosphere, the Ramsey staple continues to
delight generations of guests and hold its place among the Garden State’s top fine dining destinations.
Following Chef Kohler’s passing in 2021, the restaurant has remained in the loving hands of his four children.
“Our father poured his heart into every detail of Café Panache, from the way a plate was composed to the way a guest was greeted. This 40th anniversary is not only a celebration of his culinary brilliance, but a testament to the relationship he built, the joy he gave people through food, and the legacy we are so honored to carry forward,” said his daughter, Kristie Messano.
Café Panache is located at 130 Main St. in Ramsey. The restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday through Friday from 12-1:30 p.m. and for dinner Tuesday through Thursday from 5-9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5-10 p.m.
For more information, visit www.cafepanachenj.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
THE CARL INSERRA MEMORIAL GOLF OUTING
The Inserra Family Foundation held their annual Carl Inserra Memorial Golf Outing at six golf courses and a reception with dinner and prizes at the Venetian.
Jamie Wilson, Richard and Patti Chamberlain, Jon Kelly
Brian Giambagno, Travis Epp, Aaron Kowalski
Josh Fried, Sarah Dedinsky, Jarrett Cook
Greg Auciello, Stephanie Politi, Alexandra Dorey, David Caldwell
Jim Dorey, Sean Stellato
Craig Tomat, Jeff Riggitano, Dave Wolf, Rich Chamberlain Jr.
Rich Chamberlain Jr., Hannah Prol
Dylan Dupont, Luke Cataldo Kathryn and David Van Lenten
Dan Politi, Marisa Auciello, Mike Casalino
Frank Siclari, Marie Inserra, Nicole Stuart, Theresa Larsen
Robert Garrett, Patti and Rich Chamberlain
Dr. Dante Implicito, Inez and Larry Inserra, Dr. Rick Winters
Larry and Inez, Lauren and Lawrence Inserra
Brian Maroney, Michael DiGiovanni
The Colloca Family
Jose Orellano, Kevin Pace, Rodney Baldera, Mohammad Hadla
Carl Inserra Jr., Kate Cronauer
Jim Kourgelis and the Boys
Sam and Jim Dorey
Niko, Jim and Chris Kourgelis
Robert Garrett, Larry Inserra, Kenny Esser
Doug
Kevin
Victoria
Lawrence Inserra Jr., Linda and Peter Hanson
Oscar Manto Jr., Lina Sierra, Oscar Manto
Tina and Mickey Tomat
Lawrence Inserra Jr., Laurie Inserra, Blaine Handzus
Pat Sullivan, Larry Inserra
Cassidy, Dominick Semenza
Pat Sullivan, Carl Inserra Jr., Kate Cronauer
Lanzo Jr., Jerry Iannone, Bruno Sgambellone, Trae Minicucci, Matt Brogan
Ghinelli, Laura Dupont, Jordan Gireck
From Bergen to Bliss Escaping to
Nemacolin’s Luxury Retreat
By Mary ann treger
Farmington, Pennsylvania is not what you’d call a “bucket list” destination but Nemacolin, a luxury getaway nestled in the Laurel Highlands should be. Three exquisite hotels, two world-class golf courses, a posh spa and unique holistic center as well as a crazy variety of activities are spread out on 2,200 bucolic acres of woodlands where the pace is relaxed and scenery is spectacular.
If first impressions are everything, our arrival is nothing short of breathtaking. Have we time traveled to 19th century France? We are overwhelmed by the grandeur of a Chateau oozing style and decadence adjacent lush gardens reminiscent of Versailles. It is big, imposing, decadent. The beauty triggers every receptor in my brain. Inspired by the famed Ritz in Paris, The Chateau’s massive vaulted ceiling, magnificent crown moldings, soaring archways and
immense floral displays add to its wow factor. At the same time, a delicious scent permeating the air puts us at ease. If you have nostalgic hankerings for a touch of France (sans jet lag) The Chateau is the next best thing.
Apologies for going on and on but this place is a knock out. With over 300 glistening chandeliers, several by Baccarat, a soft moody glow lights every space. Even the coffee shop has six outrageous sparkling gems overhead. (Insider tip: Do not leave without seeing the three-tier Baccarat chandeliers in the ballroom. Massive in size, we’re told each one weighs a ton!)
Our king size room is equally opulent with every imaginable bell and whistle including a fancy barista-quality espresso coffee maker with milk steamer,
Frette towels and an oversized marble bathroom with plenty of perks, including an electronically controlled toilet with heated seat. An iPad-like tablet provides high tech controls for everything from draperies to lights plus a call button for our butler (yes, one comes with our room).
The heart and soul of Nemacolin lies in its artwork displayed throughout the entire complex. Over 1,000 fine paintings, sculptures, antiques, Tiffany lamps plus glassworks and historical artifacts including a piece of the Berlin Wall are exhibited in hallways, bars, lobbies and sprinkled outdoors. The Hardy Family Art Collection seamlessly combines current and classic art and sculpture, many by name-dropper artists including seven works by Alexander Calder. Don’t miss Dale Chihuly’s Violet Mystique Chandelier. Chihuly describes it as a “gravity defying encounter with color, light and form.” Directly across from the elevators spend time pondering “Purple Heart,” a large sculpture by Italian artist Mauro Perucchetti. It represents the heart’s explosive and volatile nature.
Even the most jaded traveler would be impressed by the overwhelming level of luxury and variety of things to do. Perhaps the complex maintains such a high level of excellence because it is privately owned. Nemacolin began in 1987 when the billionaire founder of 84 Lumber Company Joseph A. Hardy III, purchased the resort as a gift for his daughter Maggie. Since then, she has expanded and maintained the level of attention to detail in every nook and cranny. There is even a private plane landing strip should you prefer to fly in.
Rarely do you find a resort that works for a romantic getaway, gal-pal retreat, high-end golf buddies’ trip or family vacation. With three distinct hotels – one adult-only and another family-friendly plus three estates and eight homes, the cliché, something for everyone is no exaggeration. Every hotel, restaurant or activity is a short shuttle ride away, once you arrive you never need a car.
Roaming around the complex is an adventure, revealing must-see discoveries at every turn. On one walk we stumble across The Shell Room with
hundreds of artistically displayed shells including specimens from all four classes of mollusks. Other strolls reveal high end shops, a meditation chapel, car museum and cozy nooks for day dreaming.
Golf plays a starring role. Nemacolin’s two worldclass golf courses, Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock, both designed by Pete Dye, boast 36 holes of championship play. Mystic Rock is known for its PGA designation and has hosted the 84 Lumber Classic for several years. It is ranked in the top 100 for U.S. Golf Courses by Golfweek and Golf Digest magazines. Shepherd’s Rock stretches across the beautiful Pennsylvania Allegheny Mountains and is challenging but fun. Casual players need not be intimidated. If your swing needs tweaking, Nemacolin’s Golf Academy will come to the rescue with club fitting specialists using the latest Trackman and Swing Catalyst technology.
Dining options are mind boggling. From overthe-top gourmet to casual family friendly salads, pizza and burgers, the place has you covered. It goes without saying that your stomach will be sated everywhere but gourmet experiences await at Gusto, an Italian treasure; Fawn & Fable, featuring a farm-to-table menu; or Aqueous at Falling Rock, where your spirit will be restored with outstanding seafood served overlooking expansive views of the 18th hole of the prestigious Mystic Rock Golf Course. Wherever you dine, save room for an outrageously delicious chocolate chip cookie left in your room at turndown. With the press of a button, the butler will heat it for you.
While some reach for a glass of the bubbly to relax and chill out, we head to the spa to savor the steam room, sauna, whirlpool and indoor pool. The serene Woodlands Spa incorporates a Feng Shui design to balance and harmonize the flow of energy using the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water. After lingering in the fireside lounge nibbling snacks and sipping tea, my treatment begins – 90 minutes of sheer bliss as I’m scrubbed, wrapped and massaged.
Don’t skip the resort’s Holistic Healing Center where treatments include acupuncture, saltwater float therapy, infrared light therapy, cryotherapy
and Nova THOR PBM red light therapy – experiences not usually found in typical resort spas. But this place is hardly typical. Opting for acupuncture, Dr Lin, doctor of Chinese Medicine, spends time evaluating my concerns (stomach and anxiety) before ultra-thin needles (most I don’t feel) are inserted into my head, feet, ear, hand and remain in place for about 30 minutes. Afterwards I feel great, hoping the mellow stress-free feeling stays with me forever.
The list of things to do is endless. Skeet shooting, Jeep off-roading, horseback riding, fishing, miniature golf, axe throwing, bike-riding, tennis and pickleball, art classes and in the winter, skiing and assorted snowy activities. Did I mention the Wildlife Habitat Center, home to Iranian red sheep, buffalo, tigers, lions, and smaller exotic animals? And, there’s even a casino!
So, what’s the downside of the east’s chicest haven? The wallet-shrinking rates. It’s pricey. Room rates at The Chateau begin around $1,000 a night but other options are less eye-popping. After three glorious days at Nemacolin we didn’t experience half of what is offered. A good reason to return.
Mazda CX-70 PHEV and CX-90
‘Zoom Zoom’ Goes Upmarket
By riChard poSluSzny
When new vehicles are announced, it’s an exciting time. There are flashy reveals with A-list celebrities, slick videography and storytelling that gets you leaned in.
But I must admit. I am starting to show my age.
It’s not just the innumerable grays sprouting from my scalp. Frankly, there’s not a lot of beautifully designed vehicles that are well packaged and compelling. What you’ll find is a market littered with brutalist-inspired shapes and ever-increasing prices that leave me saying, “The juice isn’t worth the squeeze.”
That was until I saw the Mazda CX-70. As my significant other and I are starting a family, we know we’ll be adding a properly sized sport-utility vehicle to our fleet so we can be active, cool parents. Previously, we owned a 2022 CX-5 that we enjoyed, so, it only makes sense that our short list would feature the big daddy Mazda.
I was eagerly awaiting a chance to get up close and personal with it. Now, would it deliver?
One thing is certain: It’s a damn good-looking SUV. Mazda, once known for “Zoom zoom,” is now a brand becoming known for “Va va voom.” Objectively, Mazda has been churning out handsome products in recent years. In some cases, there’s even a bit of an Italian flare to its design language. It’s very impressive.
Originally debuting as the CX-90, the flagship Mazda bears a large front grille, well thought out lines run-
ning front to back, and thin LED taillights that are quite sophisticated. Overall, it’s a far more upscale look than we’re used to seeing from the brand. I welcome this, wholeheartedly. Appearing later in CX-70 form, this SUV drops the third row inside and gets a sportier appearance on the outside. But honestly, you really must search for it. That’s because Mazda only did things like switch out the front bumper for a slightly more aggressive version and it blacked out certain trim bits.
As much as Mazda wants to say the CX-70 is a totally different model from the CX-90 it is not. The chassis is shared, as are the drivetrain and powertrains.
Sliding into the driver’s seat, I was expecting the CX-70’s interior to blow me away. On paper, it checked all the boxes and the pictures had me salivating. What I felt and experienced, however, left me deflated. While the quality of the materials is acceptable, just about everything you touch has a decidedly low-rent feel to it. From the quality of the leather to the metal-look interior trim to the windshield wiper stalks, it was underwhelming. When I rapped my nails against the trim, it felt like plastic.
Frankly, it all felt eerily like our $35,000 CX-5, whereas the sticker for the well-equipped CX-70 and CX-90 I drove were nearing the $60,000 mark.
But we’re only getting started. There are other missteps. Take, for example, the 12-inch instrument cluster and 12-inch infotainment screen. Once again, on paper this sounds impressive. The execution left a bit to be desired. The digital instrument cluster looks great, but you soon realize that it’s not fully configurable. In a day and age where other automakers allow you to pull up a full-width map or customize the display to suit your needs, Mazda’s solution felt lackluster. The same applies to the infotainment screen where it is set far and away on top of the dashboard. Using Apple CarPlay — which lends its operation to touchscreens
Mazda’s solution, a rotary dial that forces you to click around, felt a bit like 2015 and not 2025.
Are these issues the end of the world? No, not really. On the positive side, there’s space in all directions, the second rows have over 39 inches of legroom, and for the CX-90 models, entry into the third row was simply achieved.
What’s most important though is how these vehicles drive. So, shall we?
Upon delivery, I first received the CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). Using a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, it is coupled with a small battery to combine for over 320 horsepower and a healthy 369 lb.-ft. of torque. On a full charge, the total EV-only range tops out at about 26 miles of driving – this is normal with PHEVs.
The CX-90 I tested, however, was equipped with the brand’s juicier powerplant. That’s because the Turbo S Premium Plus trim I experienced featured a 3.3-liter, turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine that churns out a respectable 340 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque. It is assisted by a 48-volt, mild-hybrid system. Mazda is quite proud of this accomplishment as it’s the marque’s most powerful mass produced, gasoline-fed engine.
Both PHEV and mild hybrid variants come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission to get you up and moving. The PHEVs should hit 60 mph in about six seconds whereas the mild hybrid variants take about a half second longer. A bit of a surprise given that the latter weighs nearly 350 pounds lighter.
On the surface, the casual observer may say, “So, what? These differences are negligible.” Though,
there’s more going on between the PHEV and mild hybrid CX-70s and CX-90s as they provide different driving experiences.
Take, for example, the PHEV’s levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Because the CX-70 PHEV relies on a four-cylinder engine to help propel it down the road, you will hear it. And, if I am honest, it’s not a symphony. It’s loud and buzzy, like an economy car. Additionally, I found its ability to switch between gasoline and electric power a bit clunky. After a few days, I wasn’t enjoying it. Even worse, while its tested performance bests the mild hybrid version, it just didn’t feel like it –especially at speed. I found myself having to really “push it,” to feel like I was getting enough power out of the CX-70 PHEV.
Adding to that, here’s the funny thing: If you’ve charged up the battery and are taking advantage of it, you will pick up the EV drive system’s sounds, which are a mix of whirring and whining. It reminded me of when I was driving a McLaren sports car that had an issue with its power steering pump. It sounds a bit unrefined or as though something isn’t working right.
The mild hybrid, on the other hand, has a lovely inline six-cylinder engine. Like a BMW, it has a pleasant soundtrack that feels befitting of its price
Probably my favorite element of my test E450 All-Terrain was how well it handled NVH. Equipped with an inline six-cylinder, turbocharged engine that produces about 360 horsepower and nearly 370 lb.-ft. of torque, you wouldn’t know it. That’s because the engine is silky smooth. While you will hear the motor spin up if you push it, the sound is not overly intrusive into the cabin.
SAY GOODBYE TO NEGATIVE THOUGHTS AND LIMITING BELIEFS
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tag. Overall, its NVH is in check. But, that said, its mild hybrid system also had a bit of clunkiness to it that I found surprising. Most manufacturers have been able to make the transitions between internal combustion engines (ICE) and electric drive systems seamless. Mazda, on the other hand, clearly has some work to do.
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REJUVENATE YOUR HEALTH
The hip joint and groin muscles are susceptible to injury due to the mechanics of the skating stride. Some of the most common soft tissue injuries in hockey players include a groin strain and a hip flexor strain. Off-season strengthening and dedicated stretching before and after practice are important to prevent these injuries. In addition, a direct blow to the outside of the hip can cause a hip pointer or trochanteric bursitis. Hockey pants with reinforced padding over these vulnerable areas may help protect them.
We all have that voice in our heads. The little voice that tells us we are not good enough, smart enough or deserving enough. When you get a negative thought, take note of it, dismiss it, forgive it and let it go. Next reach for a new positive thought. One that makes you feel good. Focus on what is good and what is working well in your life. Surrounding yourself with positive people who lift you up and support you is also key.
miles on dirt roads. In most vehicles this isn’t exactly a brilliant situation since you can damage the underside of your car. But with the All-Terrain, the button to raise the vehicle’s ride height came in handy. Phew!
size – it’s as though these Mazdas shrink around you.
"It is so hard to keep them reading. Reading has become a challenge in the modern age. There are so many places you can go to not read. It has fallen out of favor and because they [students] have access to so much technology, reading pales by comparison. So film is a great platform.”
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Helping this was the fact my test vehicle had the Acoustic Comfort Package, meaning, it boasted additional sound deadening insulation as well as thicker glass to reduce noise. It really pays off as at speed it sounds as though you’re traveling at 20-30 mph when in reality you’re doing three times that. You won’t stress your vocal cords in this E, that’s for sure. Once again, this is a trait found in the flagship model.
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Regardless of the powertrain you opt into, there was yet another let down. The ride quality of both the CX-70 and CX-90 were, frankly, not great. It doesn’t help that both vehicles were equipped with 21-inch wheels, and the suspensions are on the stiffer side of the spectrum. Driving in and around the New York Tri-State region, I found myself getting jostled by potholes and imperfections in the road.
most common soft tissue injuries in hockey players include a groin pull and a hip flexor pull. A severe strain can be a nagging injury that limits performance throughout the season. A direct blow to the outside of the hip can cause a bruise (contusion) of the iliac crest (hip pointer) or trochanter (trochanteric bursitis).
Add in the extra utility provided by having a long roof and I quickly found myself examining this E450 even closer. Frankly, I am considering adding one to my fleet.
After spending a week with the CX-70 PHEV and CX-90, I clocked about 23 mpg in both autos. I will note that if I had recharged the CX-70 PHEV after draining its battery, I could’ve improved my results to somewhere between 25-29 mpg based on what others are experiencing.
Why, you ask? Well, it’s this simple: It can do anything and it flies under the radar. For me, that’s as close to perfect as it gets.
Part of creating better mental health can be found in what’s on our plate and how we move our bodies. Small steps like taking a walk around your neighborhood, signing up for a yoga class or dancing around the house can increase serotonin, the feel good hormone. Eliminating sugar, incorporating more seasonal fruits and vegetables and drinking more water are simple steps to enhancing your health and relieving anxiety.
Make mine black on black, fully loaded and optioned with the 19-inch AMG wheels, please.
Avoiding injuries in hockey has to do with properly fitted equipment, making smart plays, following the rules and a lot of luck because hockey is inherently risky. Understanding how the injuries occur, recognizing them when they occur and seeking the best treatment will help you enjoy the game at whatever level you are playing.
All in all, I was extremely impressed during my time with the All-Terrain. Not only did it deliver with space, comfort and excellent control of NVH, it also did the unexpected.
I must be straightforward. My expectations may have been too high for the CX-70 and CX-90. I really thought these SUVs were going to destroy the competition and provide a compelling option for today’s buyers. Now that I’ve experienced them though, I walked away disappointed.
Loccke said one of her inspirations for using film in the classroom is to provide her underclassmen with a reward. Her students are always asking her if there is a film that corresponds with the book so she uses the film as a payoff once the students have finished reading the novel. She shows as many as three movies a year to her underclassmen. Time constraints – her classes are 40 minutes long – usually prevent her from showing more.
Like any practice, you must want to do it in order to achieve results. It’s really very simple and easier than you think. Beginning a meditation practice requires only your slight willingness. Your desire for more peace in your life, less stress and better focus and so many other benefits is all you need to get on the path. Start by taking 5-10 minutes each morning to close your eyes, focus on your breath and be still. The thoughts will come and that’s natural, just let them go and return to your breath. Try counting four breaths in and four breaths out through the nose. You can also try repeating a mantra like “om” or “peace begins with me.” Start a daily meditation practice and stroll into this season with a spring in your step.
The medial collateral ligament is most susceptible to a sprain because of the leg position – pushing off the inside edge of the skate blade – and contact to the outside of the knee. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) disruption and meniscus tears (torn cartilage) can also occur but are less common in hockey than in other sports such as football, soccer and basketball.
Power was more than adequate, which says something coming from someone who regularly drives autos with more than 600 horsepower, and when in Sport mode you can have a giggle or two. During an Everglades excursion we had to slow down to travel for about five
In a very busy category, Mazda’s effort seems a bit half baked. Ultimately, both the CX-70 and CX-90 strike me as options that are running in the middle of the pack versus leading trendsetters.
“A lot of what they read they read on their own [and not in class],” Loccke said. “The movie is a great way to provide a communal feeling and it provides something they can share together. You can have a discussion and share it and the movie is something we all experience at the same time so it is very unifying.”
Tracy Flaherty is a certified integrative health and lifestyle coach; meditation teacher; and the author and founder of Be Well Nourished. She integrates meditation into her health coaching practice as well teaching meditation one-on-one and in-group settings. You can find her meditations on the Insight timer app and on her Instagram page @wellwith_tracy.
The mechanics of the skating stride makes the hip and groin muscles susceptible to injury. Some of the
For two vehicles that are weighing in around 5,000 pounds, I was expecting more comfortable ride quality. It just wasn’t there. Having said that, there is some good news. Both the CX-70 and CX-90 do drive well. Around town they’re easy to negotiate in parking lots and at speed these SUVs are quite tidy and car-like. You’d hardly know you’re in a vehicle of its
Such was the case when Loccke addressed the largest classroom of her career on TCM.
Dr. Michael Gross is the founder and director of Active Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. He is the chief of sports medicine at Hackensack/Meridian University Medical Center. Dr. Gross has written numerous articles and book chapters on sports injuries. He has taken care of some of Bergen County’s finest athletes, from weekend warriors to professional athletes. Dr. Gross can be reached by email at drgross@activeorthopedic.com.
I would be sure to cross shop them accordingly if they make your short list.
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Pediatric Specialty Care
You want the very best for your child. So do we. That’s why Valley’s pediatric specialists deliver experienced care, tailored to the needs of young patients. Our team takes the time to understand their patients’ concerns, answer questions, and reassure parents in a child-friendly environment.
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Food Allergy*
Gastroenterology & Nutrition*
Pediatric Gynecology*
Pediatric Surgery*
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Pulmonology*
Sleep Medicine*
Weight Management
* In alliance with Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital
