BCtheMag Summer '26

HEALTHY HAPPENS

with NJ’s most experienced joint replacement team.

You don’t have to look far for the best joint care.

SCAN TO FIND CARE

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| Summer 2026

Lorige Official Retailer

Summer 2026 Publishers Sharon & Steven Goldstein Associate Publisher Brandon Goldstein Editorial Director Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Art Director BMG Marketing Contributing Writers Stacey Feintuch Anna Kofitsas Megan Montemarano Lori Nittoli

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.

For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com.

Copyright 2026. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.

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| Summer 2026

24/7 CARE. BECAUSE COMMITMENT NEVER SLEEPS.

We hope you won’t need it, but if you do, our all-new Level III NICU includes not only next-level science and technology and a high level of specialized care for your newborn, but 24/7 care from some of the best neonatologists and preemie care specialists in the country. It’s yet another reason we’ve been named one of the best maternity hospitals in America.

Visit holyname.org/nicu to learn more.

THE BIRTHPLACE at

A Letter from the Editor

I

have spent a lot of this summer watching the World Cup.

This may not sound particularly remarkable, except for the fact that I still don’t fully understand the rules. I know enough to recognize a great goal and a heartbreaking loss, but I still occasionally turn to my husband or children and ask, “Wait, what just happened?”

And yet, I keep watching.

Partly because my children enjoy it. But mostly because my friend Lee would have.

Lee died 20 years ago this summer. He was a huge soccer fan, and I often find myself thinking about the things he would love today – the games he would watch, the conversations we would have, the passions he would still be pursuing.

So, I watch. I try to understand the rules, and, in some small way, I make room for something that mattered to him.

Perhaps that is one of the ways we continue to carry people with us after they are gone. We make room for the things they loved.

Parenthood has taught me that, too. My sons have introduced me to sports, interests and entire worlds I might never have discovered on my own. This summer, between travel baseball, the town pool and time spent with their friends, they have also introduced me to people who have become friends of my own.

That is the unexpected gift of making room. You may begin by making room for someone else’s passion, but eventually, you may find that you have made room for something new in your own life.

Here in Bergen County, summer gives us endless opportunities to do just that. We gather at baseball fields and town pools, in parks and backyards, at restaurants and community events. We sit beside people we may not know and slowly turn familiar faces into friends.

So, this summer, make room for something that matters to someone else. You may not come to love the thing itself. But you may come to understand the person who does. And sometimes, that is the greater gift.

Making room for what matters,

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo 6

| Summer 2026

Bergen New Bridge

Health

Table of Contents

16 16

24

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

34 46 34

Raise A Glass To Mom The Cocktail Club Bringing Bergen County Moms Together

More Than A Movie

A Little Fairy Dust, A Lot Of Determination How Simone Gordon Is Helping Families

24

Art Music As Medicine Stacie Rose Finds Healing In Song

42

28

from Healing Herself To Helping Others

46

Lauren Wright Has Found The Ways To Level Up

8

46

The Enduring Magic Of Bergen County’s Independent Theaters

eats A Seat At The Table Ridgewood’s Destination For Artisanal Entertaining

| Summer 2026

Keeping you healthy for all of life’s moments Whatever life brings, St. Joseph’s Health is here for you with expert providers, advanced technology, and award-winning care from everyday checkups to life-saving interventions. Because you deserve a health partner who is there for you in the moments that matter most.

Experience you can count on.

Sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth

SOCIAL

ALLENDALE FOUNDATION FOR EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE AFEE held their annual dinner and auction at Bottagra Restaurant.

For more information, visit www.afeenj.org.

Kelly Termini, Shveta and Andrew and Pam Schopp Amit Dhand

Andy and Andrea Choi

Steve and Maggie Anello, Margaret and John Grando

Matt and Clara Radman, arlene and Richard DePrizio

Stacey and Jay Shapiro

Natasha Driscoll, Liz Gomez, Ashley Krauss

Lindsey Kuczma, Stacey Smith

Victoria and Ian Jackson

Lauren Lopez, Chrissy Wefers

Janelle and Billy Lyons

Tiana and Drew Grieco, Aviva and Andrew Parise

Kim Selman, Lori Verbel, Jamie Noe

Karen DePol, Danielle Walter, Beth Diomede

Katie and Zachary Bogusz Chris Levine, Sean Mario, Liz Levine, Jenny Mario

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SOCIAL

BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF NNJ The BANNJ held their annual golf outing and scholarship awards at Edgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.bannj.org.

Taryn Byron, Kristie Davida, Kimberly Little

John Cioletti, Gabe Jordan, Joe Farina, Mike Marvin

Ashley Sarokhan, Scott Matthew Capizzi, Brett Macbean, Joseph Devries Pagan, Mike Hubschman, Bob Muller

Larry Stein, Mark Lutz, Kevin Macan

Caitlin Ryan, Jim Stevens

Charles Matar, Ariel Friedman

Jared Lans, Brian Kronick

Tim Stone, Dave Arndt

Ray Stednitz, Bob LaFranco

Frank and Brett Inserra

Amanda and Olivia Krakowiak

Jeffrey Devor, Dave LaMere

Matt Frasco, Michael McGeary, Anthony Ceccon

Jessica and John Cioletti

Charles Baldanza, Thomas Petersen

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SOCIAL

BERGEN COUNTY CASA Bergen County CASA held their annual casino night at Seasons.

For more information, visit www.bergencasa.org.

Gerhardt Rodenberger, Amy Gould

Toni-Ann, Katelyn and Alyson Edwards

Eric and Donna Beldner, Donna and Don Hammer Jane and Rob Vandervalk

Melissa and Mike San Giacomo

Natalie Usova, Michelle Spiridakis, Lynnette Looker

Margo and Chip Giamo

Vinay Jain, Zonie LeSane

Vinay Jain, Julie Holland, Zonie Lesane

Young Kim, Christina Wanas, Fanny Peralta

Marc and Lindsey Blatt

RJ and Kiki Konner

Leslie Konikow, Suzanne Curry

Alison and Moe Ismael, Susan and Fred Farcy

Jennifer Heit, Holly Shepisi

Cathy Horst, Elizabeth Brickman, Laura Blackmer

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Nonprofit spotlight

A Little Fairy Dust, A Lot of Determination How Simone Gordon Is Helping Families Rebuild

By Stacey Feintuch 16

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M

ost 20-something young mothers asking for information and support for their nonverbal, severely autistic son wouldn’t take their concerns to social media. If mothers ever did so, they’d likely be upset and posting simply about their frustration and desperation. But most young mothers aren’t Simone Gordon.

Gordon, a college graduate with a degree in biology, lost her job at a Fortune 500 company in 2015.

She struggled to get help for her and her son after calling government and private agencies repeatedly.

So, she went onto Facebook asking for help in 2016.

Four women from around the country responded.

One woman got her son bumped up on a waiting list for treatment at a hospital. Another woman sent her diapers and wipes and did a Target run for her. That plea was successful.

One woman followed Gordon’s lead on crowdsourcing for help and went live to plead for $1,000 so she wouldn’t be evicted. People tagged Gordon on the post and she went into action, stopping the eviction. She was given the nickname “The Black Fairy Godmother” by the woman she helped.

In 2020, Gordon officially launched her nonprofit The Black Fairy Godmother Foundation, which has locations in Fort Lee and Newark. Gordon serves as founder and executive director. The

foundation serves underserved, marginalized and underemployed women and their children by helping them get housing, return to school and rebuild their lives.

“I love what I do,” says Gordon. “I’m helping families who need emergency assistance and I’m their Continued on page 18

go-to person when social services fail.”

Their mission is to restore marginalized families’ stability by removing the barriers that keep them in poverty and domestic violence situations. As a nonprofit, they use the power of social media and crowdfunding to motivate fellow “Fairy Godmothers” to volunteer and contribute resources to help families in need.

Thanks to the support and generosity of volunteers, donors, national brands and everyday people, The Black Fairy Godmother has helped over 19,000 people across the nation.

Gordon’s efforts have helped her build a corporate relationship with Instacart, the food delivery service.

They wanted to know why she was ordering so much food to different addresses. Now Instacart has forgiven any delivery fees for orders over $200 per family, which is most of their orders.

“We always put in a plant or a bouquet,” says Gordon.

“We let them know we can turn an emergency into a smile.”

Today, they still reach out on Facebook and reach peo-

ple on Instagram and a large email list. Organizations and celebrities have also donated services.

Extended Stay offers discounted stays for those who are homeless or are victims of domestic violence. Microsoft has helped families facing eviction. Robert Wood Johnson Hospital helps with grants for food insecurity. Tory Burch helps people who want to return to school after 22 years old.

Celebrity donors include author Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat, Pray, Love), Stephanie March (who is in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit), Wendi McLendon-Covey (who was on The Goldbergs) and India Arie (singer and songwriter).

“Most people donate to big organizations, but they don’t know where their money is going,” says Gordon. “We’re authentic. We’re all volunteers.

Every penny you give goes straight to the families. You’re not just giving money. You’re giving money to help stabilize and save a life.”

She has expanded her reach by offering many programs to benefit communities. Angel Food Assistance Fund helps families facing food inse-

curity. The Domestic Violence Fund helps safely place families who are fleeing unsafe environments (Gordon herself returned home to New Jersey after leaving domestic violence abuse.) The Adopt-A-Family Program allows supporters to select one of their fundraisers to share on their social media platforms or personally amongst family, friends and colleagues.

Everyone participates in giving to this fundraiser until it’s fulfilled. The Emergency Assistance Fund helps families with immediate needs for transportation, utility bills, urgent medical care and other critical situations. The Birthday Fundraiser uses a birthday celebration to make a difference by choosing a fundraiser to promote amongst your friends, family and associates. And The Fairy Dust Scholarship Fund helps women enroll into a community college or receive a license/certificate in a field of their choice.

Looking ahead As Gordon continues to be the Black Fairy Godmother, she is completing her degree in nursing, so she can move into the field of public health. She earned her undergraduate degree at 35 in 2022 after a stranger paid for her to go back to school.

Come March, they’ll start their Mother’s Day “Adopt

a Mom” campaign. It’s for mothers who don’t get anything on Mother’s Day, explains Gordon.

Women apply to their program for a Mother’s Day gift. If accepted, they can sign up on Target or Amazon for three wishes – a bra, a pair of shoes or a perfume bottle. Then donors grant their wish.

A new initiative in 2026 is creating a group of “fairies.” Here, women in New York and New Jersey will volunteer their time for women who need help. These women want to help but don’t have the financial resources to do so. So, they may review resumes, sort donated clothing or help with job searches.

The foundation is always looking for volunteers, which they call “angels” and “guardian angels.”

Because of the nature of their work, volunteers must be 21 or older and pass a background check.

They’re also looking for more advisory board members. And they’re always open to receiving donations.

The Black Fairy Godmother Foundation is located at 2037 Lemoine Ave., Suite 211, in Fort Lee. Call them at 1-888-308-2112 or visit them online at www.theblackfairygodmother.org.

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SOCIAL

PARAMUS ROTARY The Paramus Rotary held their annual golf outing at Edgewood Country Club.

For more information, visit www.paramusrotary.org.

Peter Kantzilieris, Diane Vasile Falcone, Jean Jadevaia, Elizabeth Spaeth

Tom Schons, James Stafford

Rich Siniscalchi, Ralph Amato

Elaine Rovetto, Dawn Philibosian

Tina Tilyou, Jaime Arlia, Barry Paull

Debbie Cibelli, Jay Leone

Emily DiGiovanni, Justin Muslija, Daniel Kacsmar

Joe Conte, Nick Laganella

Brandon and Tyler Smith, Anthony Feorenzo, Tommy Scuderi Jr.

Adam Blohm, Dan Keegan

Bobby Houston, Rich LaBarbiera

Emily DiGiovanni, Tori Feorenzo

Natasha Fox, Jackie Ritchie

Eric Hough, Chip Philibosian

Tommy Scuderi Jr., Bill Pulzello

Joe Coniglio, Richard Siniscalchi, Bill Pulzello

22

| Summer 2026

2

ART

Music as Medicine Stacie Rose Finds Healing in Song

By Megan Montemarano

24

| Summer 2026

P

icture this – a 4-year-old nursery school student singing “You’re a Grand Ol’ Flag” at the top of her lungs, belted out as if she were singing the “Star-Spangled Banner” at the Super Bowl. It was her first solo, and it was exhilarating. From that moment on, this little girl never looked back. From car rides and backyards to school choirs and open mic nights, it didn’t matter where or how, if she was singing. Now set to release her sixth studio album in August, The Mast and the Ocean, singer-songwriter Stacie Rose is doing what she was born to do, and healing along the way.

“I am a person who keeps an open heart and growth mindset. I’m always learning, challenging myself, experimenting and delving into new things,” explains Rose. “You must make the music you want to hear, the music you want to make. I think that’s true for most things, but especially for music.”

For Rose, that’s an ever-changing style she describes as Americana, a bit rock and roll, pop veering off into country, and even electronic music at times.

Her goal is to just create music that serves the song best.

With such vast taste and countless musical inspirations, her work has many influences. But no matter what road her songs take, there is always one common thread that remains: a distinct sound that is only true to Stacie Rose.

“You have to make music for the right reasons – because it moves you or heals you, or because you have something to say, something to teach, to learn, to give. Something that needs attention.”

Rose began writing her own songs quietly in her college dorm room. After graduating, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in television and music. It’s here that she started a band and learned how to work with other musicians, eventually writing and co-producing albums. She played all over the city, and even ventured to Nashville, Los Angeles and Boston, as well as various clubs, festivals and in-house radio station performances.

“I was gathering press and momentum, radio play and TV licenses. It was kind of like living a double life yet somehow making it all work as one. I could Continued on page 26

never think of limitations or compromise. I was always all in – for all of it. I loved the creative people and projects in TV and music, and there was a lot of overlap and room for collaboration.”

With this foundation and a go-getter spirit, Rose cold-called a producer, which led to a longstanding creative partnership and her debut album, This Is Mine.

“I’ll never forget it,” she adds. “I had very little budget and experience, but I had songs, my own sound, a lot of musical influences, a great attitude, strong work ethic and just enough grit and desire to make something good. And I was open to trying things. You have to be.”

Her latest album, The Mast and the Ocean, came together a few songs at a time over the course of a few years – only when she felt she could really pour herself into it. And although the process took longer than usual, the connection she feels to the music is stronger than ever. This was especially important to Rose as she encountered numerous challenges in her personal life, including a complicated and confusing health condition that took a long time to properly diagnose, as well as the unexpected loss of her father. These circumstances initially took the wind out of her sails, leading her to take a step back to focus on her health, family and quality of life – a choice which is reflected in the themes of her songs.

“Life is full of ups and downs. I have allowed myself to ebb and flow, rise and fall and to heal.

I’ve learned to respect the process of life and making music,” Rose explains. “I used to rush to the finish line, push and pull and burn the candle at both ends. I used to ‘go go go’ even when my mind and body said stop. I’m much more conscious now.”

Listeners can expect a collection of songs that are honest and open. They are portraits of unconditional love, longing, pain, joy, isolation, self-reflection and connection. The sonic landscapes are a bit different than her previous albums because of the way the songs came together and the specific collaborations.

26

“There are layers and moments in each song that I am so proud of. I hope the album will make people feel less alone.”

In addition to music, wellness has always been core to Rose’s life – a passion that only grew after overcoming her own health challenges. With certifications in health coaching and yoga, she moved from individual coaching to corporate wellness workshops and health writing, aiming to use her unique voice to make wellness as accessible and inspiring as possible.

Rose goes on to explain the natural harmony between music and health, and how singing and writing songs are paramount to her own physical and mental wellbeing.

“Music forces you to breathe and clear out the stuff that weighs heavy. Whether you are purging, pondering, pity-partying, waxing poetically, or jumping with joy, music is medicine. It’s healing and uplifting, and it’s a necessity for me.”

Six albums later, it’s clear that music and Stacie Rose are inseparable.

“Music, motherhood, and my endless sense of self exploration along with my propensity for love have been catalysts for songs, songs and more songs.”

You can listen to these songs on all streaming platforms. Be sure to visit stacierosemusic.com and follow her on social media for more details and upcoming shows to support her new album, The Mast and the Ocean.

Follow Stacie Rose on Social Media: Instagram: stacierose_musings Facebook: stacierosemusic Health/Wellness Instagram: @stacierose_truebodyandmind

| Summer 2026

From Healing Herself to Helping Others

Lauren Wright Has Found the Ways to Level Up

By Lori Nittoli

28 Photos by Jesse Korman and LMM Photography

| Summer 2026

L

ong before the podcast, before The Barn, and before thousands of listeners began tuning in, Lauren Wright was a wife, mother of three and former celebrity publicist enduring a health crisis that would force her to rethink nearly everything she believed about medicine, wellness and herself.

experience required patience, persistence and a willingness to trust her own intuition.

In the weeks before the pandemic, following what she calls “the root canal that changed everything,” a routine dental procedure soon evolved into a cascade of health challenges that left her searching for answers.

Wright’s search for healing gradually evolved into something larger. Over time, she found herself accumulating more than information – she was collecting stories.

“Every time I ate, my skin felt like it was burning,” she recalled.

Stories of resilience.

Stories of transformation.

Stories of people who had turned adversity into purpose.

She found herself navigating through a maze of specialists, each focused on a single piece of the puzzle.

“They were operating in silos,” she says. “No one seemed to be looking at the whole picture.”

Instead, she started doing it for herself.

Over the next several years, Wright immersed herself in what she calls an “unwinding” process, exploring functional medicine, wellness practices, spiritual growth and alternative approaches to healing. The

“It forced me to become the CEO of my own health,” she said.

Finding Connection

Those conversations became the foundation of her podcast Level Up with Lauren at The Barn, and the creation of her studio space behind her Bergen County home known simply as The Barn.

Launched in September 2025, Level Up with Lauren at The Barn explores topics ranging from health and wellness to spirituality, resilience, personal growth and purpose.

Continued on page 30

Guests include physicians, entrepreneurs, authors, thought leaders and individuals whose life experiences offer lessons that extend far beyond their professional credentials.

When asked how she selects guests, Wright doesn’t mention social media followers or celebrity status.

Instead, she talks about connection. She believes many of her guests arrive through a series of seemingly ordinary encounters that prove to be anything but: a chance introduction, an unexpected conversation, a crossing of paths at exactly the right time.

“There are people who light me up when I’m in their presence. I know we’re supposed to talk,” she says.

“I’m interested in people who are doing the work.

People who are actively leveling up their lives.”

Among the dozens of conversations she’s hosted, one continues to stay with her.

River hospice residence that provides compassionate end-of-life care for patients and families throughout Bergen County.

The conversation was deeply personal.

Just weeks before her passing, her grandmother became a resident at Villa Marie Claire. While Wright had endured profound loss throughout her life, including the deaths of both parents and a brother, she had never experienced the gradual transition that accompanies end-of-life care. She found herself witnessing the dying process up close for the first time.

Vialotti spoke to her not only about medicine, but about dignity, presence, and what it means to accompany someone through the final chapter of life. Dying is not the end; it is simply a transition.

Recently, she sat down with Dr. Charles Vialotti, medical director of Villa Marie Claire, the Saddle

“Dr. Vialotti and his staff are guardians of the soul’s last chapter. What I witnessed during my time in the Villa was a spiritual experience that is hard to cap-

30

| Summer 2026

ture in words,” she says.

That experience stayed with her. For Wright, the interview reinforced something she has come to believe deeply; some of life’s most meaningful lessons emerge from conversations people are reluctant to have.

Wright’s desire to blur the line between indoors and outdoors.

Even the chandelier tells a story.

Rather than purchasing a finished fixture, Wright and her family repurposed one that arrived in hundreds, if not thousands, of individual pieces.

Creating Sanctuary

“It came in a box, and we were nervous to open it!” she laughs.

Wright envisioned a place where meaningful conversations could unfold naturally. Inspired by what she describes as Architectural Digest meets Nantucket charm and Catskills simplicity, her studio is equal parts retreat, gathering place, and creative space.

Every detail was intentionally designed to create a sense of harmony.

It was painstakingly assembled by Wright’s husband and son before becoming the centerpiece of the room. What began as a collection of scattered parts ultimately came together to create something beautiful. In many ways, it mirrors her own journey.

White oak walls warm the soaring interior. Natural textures soften the polished concrete floors. Expansive windows frame the surrounding landscape, pulling nature into every corner. A living moss installation serves as a backdrop to the podcast set, reinforcing

Lauren is also honest about the boundaries required to protect the peace she cultivates. For someone whose work is rooted in listening, connecting and holding space for others, she’s learned that balance does not happen by accident. It must be created, protected and sometimes quietly reclaimed.

Continued on page 32

At home, that balance shows up in the yard she designed as both a family space and a personal sanctuary – a place where her children can play but where she can also sit in stillness. In the mornings, Lauren will often make her way to the large rock beside the waterfall feature and take a few moments to meditate before the rest of the day begins.

The Barn reflects that same blend of personality, family and intention. Beneath the chandelier there is a nod to her husband’s love of cars: a Backdraft Cobra 427 displayed like a piece of art.

It is charming, unexpected, and completely fitting in a space that is both deeply curated and personal. Her husband has also made a tradition of driving the kids to school in the Cobra on the last day each year, though, as Lauren laughs, they are getting bigger now and the tradition may soon outgrow the car.

That seems to be the heart of Lauren’s world. The Barn may be the backdrop, but the real story is the life she has built around it.

What draws people to Wright may be that same authenticity. Guests do not sit across from her and feel interviewed as much as understood.

“People do not open up because they feel pushed.

They open up when they feel seen,” she explains.

Today, Level Up with Lauren at The Barn continues to welcome guests into the space she once imagined, designed not to provide all the answers, but to encourage listeners to ask better questions.

Because if there’s one thing she has learned, it’s that growth often begins when we stop accepting the limits others place on our stories and trust our own instincts.

She believes, “Leveling up isn’t about becoming someone else, it’s about becoming more fully yourself.”

Find Lauren on IG, @levelup_withlauren; Spotify, Level Up with Lauren at The Barn; and YouTube, @levelupwithlaurenatthebarn.

32

Raise a Glass to Mom The Cocktail Club Bringing Bergen County Moms Together

By Stacey Feintuch

34

| Summer 2026

L

ike many moms in Bergen County, Kait Wojcik and Amanda Larsen traded late nights for early mornings after becoming parents – but they still believe moms deserve a cocktail, a dance floor and a night out once in a while.

That’s why the Montvale residents created Cocktail Club Moms. They bring moms together for nights out, cocktails, dancing and meeting new friends or bonding with old ones. The club is a community of fun-loving moms from Bergen County who believe in the power of connection, good conversation and a great cocktail.

It’s a place to unwind, make new friends and celebrate motherhood.

The group hosts high-energy, mom-focused events that not only bring women together but also shine a spotlight on local businesses throughout Bergen County.

Their signature events, held each February and October, have quickly become standout nights on the local social calendar. Hosted at large venues, including February’s event at the banquet room at The Pearl River Saloon, the evenings feature local vendors, curated cocktails, open bar, food, DJs, entertainment and an atmosphere designed for moms to truly let loose and enjoy themselves.

They host smaller events with local businesses like med spas (Botox and Bubbles) or a sauna (like Sweat and Sip). The week before Father’s Day they expanded their niche by hosting a family-friendly event, which they’ve never done before. They took over the yard at Hearth & Tap in Montvale. They had outdoor games like cornhole, a Kendra Scott jewelry bar, balloon art and face painting, grooming giveaways and more. Barbecue and beer were included as a DJ played tunes.

Regardless, they want moms to relax, connect and support their community.

“We create meaningful experiences for moms to make them feel welcome and have a great night out,” says Wojcik, who loves a martini. “It’s OK to take one night for yourself to let loose without keeping one eye on the kids. Take some time for you and prioritize yourself.”

Continued on page 36

About the Founders The women met in 2024 when their kids started kindergarten in Montvale. They were drawn to each other from the start.

“We’re both social butterflies who could talk to a wall,” says Larsen.

People often asked them for recommendations of places for moms to go out. As foodies, they hadn’t seen articles online geared for local moms. So, they created lists and posted them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Then, they found that they were frequently being asked to throw events for moms. They realized few opportunities were designed specifically for moms to socialize and build community outside of traditional parenting-focused groups.

“We didn’t see any groups for moms that didn’t involve their kids,” says Wojcik. “So, we decided to create a group.”

Wojcik is Bergen County native, mom of three and former teacher. She has always been passionate about connections, and a well-made cocktail. Find her squeezing in a morning workout between making lunches and school drop-offs, scouting the newest hot spots around the county or dancing to her favorite songs with a drink in hand.

“I’m all about making space for moms to have fun, feel good and enjoy the moment – guilt free.”

Larsen is a mom of two and a full-time director of operations at a staffing agency. She loves cooking, hosting and bringing people together.

“Whether it’s a kids’ party, family night or moms’ night out, I’m always up for creating memorable moments,” she says. “Cocktail Club started as a fun way for Kait and me to reconnect our community – giving moms a chance to let loose and 36

families a reason to get out and enjoy life again.”

Both credit their supportive husbands for helping behind the scenes as the club has grown.

The Future The founders have mapped out some lofty goals.

Wojcik wants to organize an all-day Momchella for Summer 2027. She envisions having more than 50 vendors with massages, Botox, B12 shots, hair braiding and more. It would have a bar, lounge, band and DJ. “It would be the ultimate day for moms in every way,” she says. “It’s my dream event that I’d want to have every summer.”

They want to host events with keynote speakers and visits to wineries in the Hudson Valley. In the summer, they plan to throw a summer shore series.

“We want it to be ‘grab your neighbor and leave the kids with the grandparents to meet at a local restaurant,’” Wojcik says. “We want to continue to empower women.”

They’ve had pinch-me-moments since the group’s inception.

“One woman came up to us with tears in her eyes about how much the events mean to her,” she says. “Not everyone has a mom group to lean on, and they come here and they find that.”

Women have ventured to events by themselves.

“They’ve been scared to get out of their comfort zone, but they’ve made good friends from other towns,” says Larsen, who sips on pinot grigio.

“It’s really beautiful that we’ve been able to do friendship matchmaking.”

If you’re a mom looking for a fun night out, new friendships and the best local spots to unwind, follow Cocktail Club Moms. Learn more at instagram.com/thecocktailclubmoms.

Top Spots in Bergen County for a Cocktail The Cocktail Club Moms founders know that you don’t want to waste your one night out on a dud of a place. That’s why they happily shared their favorite spots to kick back in Bergen County.

Place: The Craftsman 16-09 Maple Ave., Fair Lawn Why they like it: You won’t have a bad time as you enjoy a craft cocktail or a craft beer.

Place: Fire & Oak 100 Chestnut Ridge Road, Montvale Why they like it: The spot is a tried-and-true classic with a DJ starting at 7 p.m. on Thursdays.

Place: 86 and Vine 519 Livingston St., Norwood 86andvine.com Why they like it: Enjoy a speakeasy vibe as you sip on innovative cocktails in an intimate setting.

Place: Bottagra 80 Wagaraw Road, Hawthorne Why they like it: Every Thursday they host dinner and a DJ. They also have half-price specialty drinks and martinis 5-7 p.m. on Thursdays.

Place: Ora 304 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell Why they like it: You don’t need a reservation to hang out in the upstairs lounge Thursday to Sunday nights.

Place: The Roosevelt 356 Paterson Ave., Rutherford Why they like it: The speakeasy spot has a vibrant bar scene and a DJ playing tunes. Enjoy happy hours Wednesday to Sunday.

Place: The Union Bar & Provisions 170 Union Ave., East Rutherford Why they like it: The made-from-scratch menu at this contemporary tavern features fresh, local ingredients. You’ll find a curated selection of beers on tap and classic cocktails mixed with a twist.

Place: Mexcal Tequila Bar 24 North Van Brunt St., Englewood, Why they like it: Sip on the finest tequilas at this trendy tequila bar.

Place: Felina 18 Prospect S., Ridgewood Why they like it: You can’t go wrong with their rooftop bar that has views of the town. Sip on curated cocktails and devour handmade pizzas from their outdoor brick oven.

Place: Park West Tavern 30 Oak St., Ridgewood, Why they like it: Enjoy crafted cocktails and a large selection of craft beers at a spot with a fun vibe.

Place: Sofia 36 Engle St. Why they like it: On Thursdays, take advantage of drink specials at the bar and on the sidewalk.

Complimentary Italian bites are passed around the bar. And special guest DJs rotate weekly.

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BEHIND THE SEAMS The Behind the Seams Fashion Show was held at Bottagra Restaurant and benefitted Table to Table.

For more information, visit www.tabletotable.org.

Marilyn Tolerico, Janice Awad, Alexis Stasiak

Maria Seretis, Michael Claisse

Jackie Dimeo, Betty Ribadenira, Joanne Delauro

Sheri Sanchez, Marily Tolerico, Tricia and Chloe Caruso, Jacqueline Cinotti

Rosario and Karrisa Lacorte

Julia Margagliotta, Anastasia Baker

Gianna Pignatelli, Matthew Singh, Emily Zinberg, Megan Redizia

Jorge Hernandez, Rob Vicari, Jamie Knott

Laura Jennings Pitt, Juanita Poalillo, Heather Thompson

Missy Matera, Caitlin Hawkins

Alexandra Panagiotopoulos, Meghan Rypkema

Charles and Jennifer Matar

Sal, Elena, Patty and Ralph Lauretta, Maria and John Chomenko

Lexi DiMeo, Malvina Blloshmi

Melissa Milazzo, Lori Nattoli, Malvina Blloshmi

William Stroever, Christina Timarchi

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SOCIAL

BEHIND THE SEAMS The Behind the Seams Fashion Show was held at Bottagra Restaurant and benefitted Table to Table.

For more information, visit www.tabletotable.org.

Patti and Ralph Lauretta, Colleen Shuh

Brandon Goldstein, Joe Mazza

Alexis Gonzalez, Brandon Goldstein, Joe Mazza, Brittany Hay

Heather Thompson, Joe Mazza

Frank and Agnes Barbagallo, Joe Zisa

Charles and Jennifer Matar, Joe Mazza

Frank and Mary Zisa

Colleen and Peter Shuh, Nicole Henke

Joey Dell, Jo Ann Sanzari

The Flourish Salon Team

Willy Khan, Naz Ahmadi

Gabriella Raia, Nicole Berezny, Christine Bunger

Rob and Miriam Segona, Nick Baez, Kelsi Tattersall, Rich Capozzoli Nick Dimora

Maria Lauretta, Brandon Goldstein

Lexi Dimeo, Rob Vicari

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VALLEY HOSPITAL AUXILIARY The Valley Hospital Auxiliary held their annual golf outing at the Ridgewood Country Club.

For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.

Carmen Dalton, Kevin Brendlen, Risa Kory

Diana Frankel, Mary Seminara, Linda Leeder, Claudia Sanchez

Ed Rubin, Greg Nejmeh, Bettina Daly, Dr. Robin Goldfischer

Nancy Weiss, Rita Brandeisky

Carol Gillespie, Elaine Heimberger, Jeannie Safina, Kassie Ambrose

Mary Seminara, Donna Singer, Karen Hoy

Bonnie Dalal, Lisa Beslity

George Mandarakas, Jim Rojas

Elijah Bussey, Laurent Span, Jack Desalvo, Frank Sayrafe

Jeff Seidler, David Bohan, Matt Baczyk, Michael Schweiger

Valley Auxilary 2026 Golf Committee

Paul Povolo, Carolina Toro, Joe Lorino

Kevin Smith, Steve Stallard, Mike Maz

Rolanda Moussa, Raffaela Dunne

Salvatore Shianetta, Louis Macaluso, Philip Shianetta

Dennis Summers, Gregory Fornal, Harry Hahn

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More Than a Movie

The Enduring Magic of Bergen County’s Independent Theaters

By Anna Kofitsas

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I

n an age of streaming services, shrinking attention spans and movies consumed on phones and laptops, independently owned theaters offer something audiences can’t replicate at home: an experience.

Like the heroines of romantic comedies who keep chasing what matters, these theaters keep going too – steadfast, nostalgic and quietly resistant to change. Their faded carpets, vintage marquees and decades-old lights feel less like relics and more like time capsules, preserving the magic of moviegoing as it once was.

For Bergen County theaters like Westwood Cinemas, that nostalgia is part of the draw, bringing people together not just to watch a film, but to be transported – to share a story, a space and a feeling larger than any screen at home can provide.

Dating back to 1928, the Westwood Cinema held live performances. Originally built as a single-screen venue, the cinema was transformed into a six-screen theater after the current owner purchased it in the 1980s.

“I think it’s really cool. I mean, if you go upstairs into the upper low projection rooms, you can see the arch of where the original theater was,” Amanda Haenelt, a Westwood Cinemas employee for the past three years, tells me in between selling tickets for The Devil Wears Prada 2.

“And supposedly, there’s an underground tunnel system underneath where all the dressing rooms were for the original theater.”

The vintage look draws people in and Continued on page 44

keeps them coming back year-after-year. In fact, there are some that came as children and watched live performances on the stage that was here before. Those children come back as adults to reconnect with the magic they once felt. While the feeling of seeing a movie there for the first time can’t be recreated exactly, returning to the theater comes close.

Sitting inside Westwood Cinemas watching The Devil Wears Prada 2, the irony was hard to miss. A movie shaped by anxieties about the future of print media was playing inside a theater facing its own questions about survival in the streaming age.

The owner (who preferred not to be named) has watched these children grow up in this theater since he bought the theater in the 1980s. As I settle in with my interview questions, the owner hands me a bucket of popcorn. He asks if I would like butter. I have a feeling he’s been personally bringing people popcorn since the 80s.

The challenge today is to preserve tradition in a time where everything is built on convenience and speed. The knowledge you gain from supporting an independent theater is a feeling that’s hard to compete with.

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Can the film experience compete against technology?

Streaming a movie at home is easy. But when you are home, you don’t get the reactions of people around you.

That said, you do have to be mindful of the engine you select and the trim levels as pricing reaches into

Haenelt speaks of her own moviegoing experience, “I’ve seen films all across the emotional spectrum – sometimes a feeling of happiness, sometimes sadness.”

The kind of reaction felt after a film depends on what is being shown.

There are movies for everyone. Thirteen-yearold girls coming in with long straight hair, short shorts and phones in hand. Boys parking their bicycles and laughing as they enter in to catch a screening of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

the added space gets two thumbs up from me.

meant to be seen. During the week, he works a financial job, but on weekends he returns to Westwood Cinemas, where he has worked for the past five months after spending a decade in the movie business.

“Some movies are meant to be experienced,” he tells me.

If the smell of buttered popcorn won’t drag you in, then certainly Meryl Streep in Prada shoes will.

The small screen and the big screen offer two very different experiences. One is conveLike many independent theaters, Westwood nient. The other leaves you walking out into Cinemas relies heavily on children’s birth- the Bergen County night carrying something day parties and busy summer crowds to stay larger than the movie itself – ambition, nosafloat. Cole (who only provided his first talgia, inspiration or simply the feeling of having 74name), a manager at the theater, wants audi-| Spring 2023shared a story with strangers. ences to experience movies the way they were

EATS

A Seat at the Table Ridgewood’s Destination for Artisanal Entertaining

By Stacey Feintuch

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N

o store in Bergen County is like The Table At Latona’s in Ridgewood. Find hand-painted and handmade artisan tableware, homeware and gifts. Register for your wedding or create a wish list.

They’re the No. 1 Vietri retailer in New Jersey. You’ll also find collections from Arte Italica, Juliska, Annie Glass and more.

“Our clients are style- and quality-conscious consumers in their mid-30s to early 70s who appreciate the specialness of our product and enjoy the art of entertaining,” says Gregg Rodeheffer, co-owner of the shop.

Patrons either visit their store intentionally or encounter it as they’re exploring Ridgewood.

“Those who stumble in are delighted to see the lines we carry and get excited about what we have to offer.”

Rodeheffer and co-owner Joe Latona – who describe themselves as owners and partners in business and life – know you can shop at a big-box store.

“But we have knowledge of the product,” says Latona, who has more than 20 years of experience in the business. “We know where it’s made and all the information that’s important when you’re spending $60 on a mug. You’ll benefit when you come to us because of our knowledge.”

Plus, they’ll personally assist you from start to finish. Come in and they’ll help you choose the perfect item. Then, Latona, who proclaims he is “meticulous” about wrapping, adorns the gift in their signature champagne and black wrapping paper.

“The wrapping looks so chic and elegant. It elevates even a $20 item.”

How It All Began The store was merely a dream Latona had for years as he helped run his parents’ store, Latona’s Specialties, an Italian food establishment in Garfield. He created a gift section of the store by bringing in Italian dinnerware. As the years went by, he became knowledgeable about the artisan tableware industry. They launched bridal registries and Latona had to create a subdivision for online purposes to separate registry items from food items. And the name “The Table At Latona’s” was born.

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Despite the store’s success, he still dreamed of branching out on his own. A memory kept popping up of a drive he once took through Ridgewood. He thought it would be the perfect place to open his own shop.

Meanwhile, Rodeheffer started tagging along to gift shows. Over time, he also became educated on artisan tableware. With a background in customer service, Rodeheffer could help during the busy holiday seasons at the store.

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One night after work in the Fall 2018, they vented about their jobs. Latona wanted to open his own shop. His mom was most likely going to retire soon, and he was tired of feeling stuck. And Rodeheffer said he wanted to join Latona on this journey.

Future plans include items that can decorate a tabletop. Think picture frames, clocks, coffee table books or handmade games. And they want to maintain their title as the only store like theirs in Bergen County.

On New Year’s Day 2019, they drove to Ridgewood and found the perfect spot for a shop. Opening in May 2019, the store has weathered a Covid shutdown and other challenges, but they’re still going strong.

The Table At Latona’s is located at 26 East Ridgewood Ave. in Ridgewood. Call them at 201-612-6600 or visit them online at www.thetableatlatonas.com.

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WANDELL SCHOOL EDUCATION FOUNDATION The Wandell School Education Foundation held their annual gala at the Saddle River Inn. For more information, visit www.wandellef.org.

Wandell School Foundation

Wandell School Foundation Executive Board

Drs. Jane and Doug Holden

Jason and Annie Greenberg

Veronica Kanter, Carly Aly

Radoslav and Roksana Alendarova

Bahara and Plamen Alendarov

David and Jodi Bass

Tonianne Dente, Brianne Angerame

Paul Broer, Tifphani White-King

Veronica Kanter, Jessica Zampieri, Carly Aly

Glenn Lederman, Amanda Kavaja

Christina Sahoury, Talia Georgiades, Winnie Brecher

Jessica Pak, Fawn Fleissig

Gabiella Lippert, Sienna Shoury, Emily Swierk

Rachel Delicate, Piper Pope

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Providing Care Like No Other for 75 Years.

To make an appointment or for a second opinion, call 1-800-VALLEY 1 (1-800-825-5391).

Care Like No Other ValleyHealth.com

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