BC the Mag Winter '21

The Mag

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The Mag

WINTER 2021

PUBLISHERS

Sharon & Steven Goldstein

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Brandon Goldstein

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Suzanne Giovanna Barr

FASHION DIRECTOR

Candace Kristin

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tara DeLorenzo

Kristin Favaloro

Brandon Goldstein

Dr. Michael Gross

Soneca Guadara

Megan Lupo

Megan Montemarano

Richard Posluszny

Stefanie Sears

Bergen County The Magazine is published six times a year. Mail all editorial and advertising materials to 297-101 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 135, Oradell, NJ 07649 or email materials to steven@bcthemag.com.

For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5197 or (201) 265-2286.

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

Copyright 2021. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.

B E T T E R

T O G E T H E R

O u r s p a c i o u s a n d e x p a n s i v e s e t t i n g ,

c o n v e n i e n t l o c a t i o n , a n d

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r e a s s u r a n c e t o t h o s e l o o k i n g f o r a

p e r s o n a l r e t r e a t

L I V E W H A T ' S N E X T

A W A R D - W I N N I N G G O L F C O U R S E

H A R - T R U C L A Y C O U R T S &

P I C K L E B A L L

C U L I N A R Y D E L I G H T S

F A M I L Y - F R I E N D L Y A C T I V I T I E S

S T A T E - O F - T H E - A R T F I T N E S S C E N T E R

O V E R S I Z E D S W I M M I N G P O O L W I T H

P R I V A T E C A B A N A S

O U T S T A N D I N G P R A C T I C E F A C I L I T I E S

A L L - A G E S F U N

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letter from the publishers

Are we tired of the hot cocoa bombs yet? It seems like our lives have just become a hop from one viral sensation to the next, though I’ll be honest, I haven’t had a cronut in forever.

With that said, the hot cocoa bombs have done much to soothe our minds and warm our bellies through what continues to be very trying times for many throughout the world and even in our own backyards. We can continue with the “we’re in this together” theme, but even that seems a bit overdone and well, sadly, not always true.

However, we can still have hope. Hope that these vaccines take hold and help us get a better grasp. Hope that our incredible medical community continues to find better treatment options and hope that the days by which COVID-19 helps shape every decision we make each day are numbered. As I look out at our community, despite all that has changed, I remain hopeful.

Which brings me right to our Nonprofit Spotlight, where members of The Junior League continue to support women in need, in a time many more are certainly in dire situations that only the help of others can help right.

Even though we aren’t out as much these days, we can always rely on our beauty editors to give us some helpful tips on how to dress in 2021 as well as some cold-weather skincare essentials meant to root out that dry skin and have our faces feeling fresh.

As the cold weather looms large, it’s easy to fall into habits of consuming large amounts of comfort food all the time. While I’m always an advocate for both macaroni and cheese (or both), we have some healthier options you can whip up at home that will have you feeling a bit better as bikini season creeps slowly closer.

If you are looking for a fun night out, we definitely suggest heading over to the new LT Bar & Grill to check out Laurent Tourondel’s first hop across the Hudson as his beautiful new restaurant welcomes diners eager for a taste of something new.

As winter wears on, we look to brighter days, both literally and figuratively. Bergenites are a tough breed, and we have always been able to deal with anything that was thrown at us. When 9/11/01 attempted to shake us to our core, we held fast. Twenty years later, we are just as strong. Things might not always feel great, but, like I said earlier, all we can do is hope for better days –and know they are coming.

Stay warm and happy, Sharon and Steven Goldstein

Emergencies Don’t Stop. Neither Do We.

S a f e , S k i l l e d E m e r g e n c y C a r e i s H e r e

If you ’ re experiencing chest discomfort, signs of stroke, or have suffered an injury, Valley’s full-service Emergency Department is ready to care for you

Our emergency teams deliver prompt care for any emergency, with all of the safety measures, protective equipment and precautions you expect

Staffed by board-certified physicians and skilled nurses, Valley’s Emergency Department also features a dedicated Pediatric Emergency Department

In an emergency, time is your greatest ally Go straight to our Emergency Department or call 911 and ask to be taken to Valley

For less-serious, non-life-threatening medical conditions, schedule your emergency treatment time at ValleyHealth com

Car e Like No Other™

ValleyHealth com/Emergency

CORRECTION: In the article “New Year? Yes, Please!,” as featured in BC The Mag Holiday 2020, BC The Mag regrettably identified photographer Lex Christie, owner and photographer of Lex Christie Photography LLC, as “Lexi Christine.” BC The Mag regrets the error.

12 nonprofit spotlight

A TRADITION OF HOPE

Members of The Junior League

Continue To Support Women In Need

22 art

HE JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER AND BETTER

BERGEN AUTHOR PENS

HIS 14TH BOOK

38 the sports doctor

TEN WAYS TO AVOID INJURY ON THE TREADMILL 44 auto

FERRARI PORTOFINO

Does Personality Make the Car?

LT BAR & GRILL OPENS AT THE SHOPS AT RIVERSIDE

58 restaurant guide

A RESOURCE FOR YOUR DINING PLEASURE 66 last laugh

THE GRASS ISN’T ALWAYS GREENER

Your Healthy Winter Checklist

As the weather gets colder and we spend more time indoors, it is important to not let your guard down. In addition to following safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 such as wearing a mask, remember to follow up with your doctor to help stay healthy.

Englewood Health reminds you to:

� Select a primary care physician for yourself and your family members

� Schedule your annual physical

� Make sure you are up to date on any necessary vaccinations and get your flu shot

� Speak with your physician about important screenings and preventive care services, including:

• Colorectal cancer screening

• Lung cancer screening

• Mammogram

• Pap smear and HPV screening

• Screening for other cancers based on your risk factors, including stomach and pancreatic cancers

• Hepatitis screening

• Bone density testing

• Cardiology exam

• Vascular screening for stroke and neurological conditions

• Joint and spine check-up and care

• Pulmonary function testing

• Smoking cessation

• Diabetes screening

• Vein screening

A Tradition of Hope Members of The Junior League Continue To Support WOMEN IN NEED

By Megan Montemarano

There is nothing quite like a group of motivated women determined to make a difference in this world. And what better way to do so than by giving back to your very own community, serving as a beacon of light in the darkest times? Since 1928, the Junior League of Bergen County (JLBC) has been providing an outlet for local women interested in dedicating their time to serving others. Originally known as the Englewood Junior Service League, this all-female volunteer organization, which comprises one of the 291 Junior League chapters in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the UK, aims to develop the potential of women and improve the local community by training volunteers and providing hands-on assistance to at-risk women, children and men through various projects and initiatives.

Despite its numerous iterations as an organization, the JLBC, like all Junior Leagues around the world, traces its roots to the original Junior League founded in New

York City in 1901 by Mary Harriman and her debutante friends. Harriman believed that women of means should do more than just donate money at church. Striving to bring her efforts to the next level, she organized a group of women to roll up their sleeves and help her truly leave an impact.

“At that time, New York City immigrants were living in horrendous conditions,” explains Britt Tunick, president of the Junior League of Bergen County. “Harriman and her friends were among the first group of volunteers to go into the tenements where immigrants were living to try and help them.”

With strong roots like this, it’s no surprise to see all that the JLBC has achieved over the years.

“We have various committees that are devoted to different aspects of the organization – from our community impact committee, to training and fundraising,” adds Tunick. “Several years ago, our League did an extensive

Above images: Festival of Trees 2019

review of the needs within our community and met with many other local nonprofit and service organizations to determine where we could make the greatest difference. Our membership chose to focus on resilience and, therefore, search for projects or partnerships that fall under that umbrella.”

The JLBC has partnered with a wide number of Bergen County organizations, most recently CUMAC: Feeding People and Changing Lives, a food pantry in Paterson; West Bergen Mental Healthcare; Ridgecrest Senior Housing; Woodlea Group Home, a refuge for teenage girls from dysfunctional or abusive families; the Lodi Boys & Girls Club; and the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home.

JLBC initiatives are funded through a combination of membership dues and various fundraisers held each year. The largest fundraiser is typically the League’s Festival of Trees Gala, where individually themed Christmas trees and wreaths are auctioned off, along with a wide variety of gift baskets and other offerings, all funded by donations from businesses and individuals within the community.

“This year in particular, a Christmas tree from the auction was donated to Valley Hospital as a token of gratitude for their EMS workers and all that they’ve done during the pandemic,” says Tunick. “The tree was red, white and blue with an EMS theme. Everyone was very excited.”

Another favorite is the JLBC Touch-a-Truck event, which has been held in the parking lot of the Westfield Garden State Plaza for the past decade or so. For this event, group volunteers gather a wide variety of trucks and vehicles – from police cars and ambulances to SWAT vehicles, garbage trucks, tractor trailers and more. Children and their parents can explore the vehicles and learn all the ins and outs straight from those who use them on the job.

Needless to say, many traditions did not look completely the same this year. Just as the COVID-19 pandemic has upended the day-to-day routines of most, it has also changed the way the JLBC operates within our community.

“In a normal world, League projects and events are

extremely hands-on,” comments Tunick. “But, like everyone, we had to shift our activities largely to online initiatives and interactions, changing the way we think about how we can best serve the community.”

And so, new efforts were coordinated. At the start of COVID-19, the JLBC donated $2,500 worth of diapers to the Children’s Aid & Family Services’ Baby Basics program and $2,500 worth of food to CUMAC to help replenish its supplies. Over the summer, the group collected baby monitors and phone chargers, which were donated to local hospitals and used by nurses to continuously monitor infected COVID-19 patients. The phone chargers were given to COVID-19 patients who were brought in by ambulance and unable to recharge their phones, helping families stay connected during some of the most difficult times.

This past fall, the JLBC hosted an online fundraiser, matching all donations received to donate $2,000 worth of food and staple products to Ridgecrest Senior Housing. The group also held a pre-Thanksgiving food drive, where volunteers collected food, diapers and gift cards for the Center for Food Action. Other efforts included a coat drive organized in conjunction with a local Girl Scout troop on behalf of Vietnam veterans and their families, as well as a drive for various items (toiletries, large print puzzle books, etc.) for the residents of the Christian Health Care Center, which were used for gift bags to deliver on Christmas Day. In addition to the activities mentioned above, the JLCB also held multiple online trainings and webinars throughout the year that were open to the general public to access at their leisure.

“Other efforts included a coat drive organized in conjunction with a local Girl Scout troop on behalf of Vietnam veterans and their families.”

Tunick initially joined the New York Junior League in 2004, during which time she spent several years volunteering on various committees. After moving to Ridgewood in 2010 and becoming pregnant with her son, it

became more difficult to volunteer in the city. However, she did not want her philanthropic efforts to end there. Tunick soon transferred to the JLBC, where she has remained actively involved over the years, eventually taking over as president.

“What I am most proud of as president of the JLBC is that I believe we have been able to make a real difference in the lives of so many people, whether it is a woman who has landed a job with assistance from a League member in their job search, residents of a facility or low-income home that we have fixed up or just serving a meal at the homeless shelter. Being able to directly interact with fellow community members is a truly rewarding experience and I think it is one of the things that keeps our volunteers involved long-term.”

Also worthy of note is the way League members were able to pivot in the wake of the pandemic and still positively impact the community through virtual initiatives. Nonetheless, the group is hopeful that the spring will bring more of a return to normalcy, allowing participation in hands-on initiatives that were temporarily pushed aside.

A major project that the JLBC will be embarking on this spring is its inaugural Playground Improvement Project. The League will be creating a greenspace/playground area for Camp YDP, a Head Start

and Tuck

STEPHANIE COHEN, MD

(welfare) community and after school program in Paterson. There is currently a vacant lot next to the Camp YDP building that used to house a church. The goal is to clean up this lot and convert it to a usable green space in which kids may play. They will also include a few benches for elderly residents in the community, as well as one or two small garden areas to teach children about gardening and growing vegetables.

In addition to this project, the JLBC is also in the process of revamping its Set Sail project, a program designed to help people struggling with unemployment or underemployment put together resumes, develop or better identify skills they have and provide them with some basic job search assistance. And lastly, the League will be repeating its Little Black Dress fundraiser this winter, which may be reimagined as a Little Black Leggings fundraiser given the remote work situations for most of their members. The idea behind this project is that JLBC members wear the same black dress (or leggings) for one week to highlight just one of the difficulties that people struggling with poverty experience, such as not having sufficient funds to buy an adequate wardrobe for work. The goal is to get friends, acquaintances and community members at large to sponsor them for wearing the same thing for a week. This money is then used to buy needed

supplies for various causes.

While there is a lot of wealth in Bergen County, there are also many communities where people struggle, only to be compounded by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When I first joined the Junior League, I quickly discovered that many people still had an image of us in their heads as a group of over-privileged, pearl wearing ladies who lunch. But nothing could be further from the truth,” explains Tunick. “Today’s Junior League members are extremely diverse. The JLBC is a group of roughly 200 women from varied ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds. We are single women, working moms, stay-at-home moms, volunteers, professionals and leaders within the community – all brought together by our collective desire to empower women and better the community in which we live.”

helps put things into perspective. It helps unveil how truly lucky many of us are, and how sometimes the smallest of gestures make the largest difference. Whether sitting with a group of female inmates in a medium security prison in New York City or cooking and serving dinner for the homeless at the Family Promise of Bergen County shelter, the numerous volunteer opportunities offered through the JLBC wake its members up to the reality of how fine the line can be between living a life of privilege or one of poverty.

Becoming involved in an organization like the JLBC

About Face

For anyone interested in learning more about the JLBC, how to get involved or even become a member, visit www.thejlbc.org. The membership process entails a year of training and education, as well as access to hands-on experiences, where the newest members can participate in community projects and events. ■

RICHARD

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Is Your Wardrobe 2021 Ready?

The pandemic has impacted so many parts of our lives, including our wardrobes. From transitioning to office appropriate attire to working at home attire, our wardrobes have experienced a shakeup.

Smart suits turned into track suits; tie-dye and Birkenstocks became the ultimate status symbol. Heels? Do we know her? Sneakers took over and a demand for comfort took priority. In essence, practical and useful pieces have taken over. Buh-bye to anything frivolous; the mass majority has embraced a “simpler” way of life.

So, what does this mean for fashion in 2021? Well, it’s going to be a year very similar to last year, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad thing. The good thing is that most of what you purchased will be useful for this year. The following pieces are building blocks that can be worn with various other wardrobe pieces for versatility.

Statement Blouse

Tired of hearing “the Zoom top?” Call it your statement blouse. You want something fun and bold. Stand out and make a statement.

Luxe Sweats

The new normal is comfort, so invest in loungewear that can be dressed up or down and look effortlessly chic.

Oversized Tote

It’s a cross between being practical and pretty.

Cashmere Knit

This is a great investment piece; it’s lightweight and can be used as a layering piece. It is also seasonal, which makes it a classic.

Combat Boots

Swap your heels for practicality. Invest in a pair of designer boots or opt for a pair from Zara. This is a wardrobe staple that is ageless and can be mix and matched with practicality everything in your closet.

by Soneca Guadara by

Minimal Sneaker

Get your kicks with a pair of white minimal sneakers. Nothing too chunky; go for a simple clean and classic style. From floral dresses to slacks and a button-down shirt, minimal sneakers will put an effortless spin on everything.

Slip Dress

Do not underestimate the power of a good slip dress. The key is to invest in a piece that is good quality. I recommend buying silk. It’s less prone to creasing and can be worn from day to night. Add a sweater over it and a T-shirt underneath. It’s a wardrobe must!

Classic Coat

A winter essential worth investing in is a classic coat. This is the first thing people see, so make sure it’s something that is fashionable and classic. I would go for camel, gray or navy as color choices.

Gold Hoops

Luxury retailers definitely saw an increase in fine jewelry sales. Gold hoops are the easiest way to elevate your look. They’re perfect with cozy athleisure wear or a pretty slip dress.

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

& St. Joseph’s Wayne Medical

Each year, St. Joseph’s Health hospitals make the list in New Jersey for the highest quality care of women during and after childbirth, and for some of the most common gynecologic procedures. For a referral to a St. Joseph’s physician, visit us at www.StJosephsHealth.org

�

He Just Keeps Getting Better and

Better Bergen Author Pens His 14th Book

By Stefanie Sears

When author Louis Romano was 18 years old growing up in the Bronx, N.Y. during the Vietnam War, he wrote urban poetry, which he defines as free verse. These are some of his beloved original pieces.

Years later, at 58 years old and while living in Bergen County, he started writing fiction, and this is now his main focus. He aims to write a book a year. At 69 years old, he launched his 13th and 14th books, which he publishes through his publishing company, Vecchia Publishing Company. His book of short stories, “Before I Drop Dead (Some Things I Want To Tell You),” and “The Butcher of Punta Cana,” a continuation of his Gino Ranno mob series that originated with his debut novel “Fish Farm,” were both released on Aug. 15, 2020. [Editor’s Note: “Fish Farm” involves a clash between the Colombian drug lords and the Sicilian mafia. Lucho Gonzales, a drug dealer from Colombia with a penchant for sex and murder, has no friends – only the wild companionship of a few psychotic men who dare to do his dirty work, and a family too afraid of his temper to do anything else. When Gino and his onagain, off-again girlfriend Lisa cross paths with Lucho, they unwittingly upset the balance of crime. The result: kidnapping, rape and murder. The Colombians may be dangerous, but when it comes to family, the New York mob draws a line in the sand. Winner takes all.]

“I think as you mature you should get better. It’s like anything else you do. I think if you look at my first book and my last book, the style of writing gets better,” said Romano. “I got more into showing and telling. If you want to tell, write a textbook. If you want to show, write fiction or nonfiction. It’s an exercise I’m now pretty used to.”

Now “Besa,” the sequel to “Fish Farm,” will be getting a film adaptation.

Romano has other works in his repertoire. He created his crime novel series “Intercession” in 2012. It follows the adventures of recurring characters Detective Vic Gonnella and Raquel Ruiz. Also, to offset the severity of the mob and crime genres, Romano wrote the young adult novel “Zip Code.”

Prior to being a writer full-time, he was a salesman in the energy oil business and currently runs Hopewell Senior Care along with his son. He considers writing a way of reinventing himself and adding some creative flair to his life. However, he doesn’t regret not being a professional writer from the beginning.

I do not miss a day of writing. I don’t believe that there is a thing called writer’s block –to me, that doesn’t exist.

“It was the right time for me to start. I couldn’t do my job and concentrate on writing at the same time. I just couldn’t do it,” said Romano. “I always wanted to write a book about something. I always wanted to create something. I always thought in thoseterms. I had a creative mind in a non-creative world.

(Continues on page 24)

Above: Louis Romano

Selling heating oil and diesel fuel, I didn’t find anything creative about it. I think the writing world is a great stage for people.”

1 . Try on both shoes and walk and jog around the store. Climb stairs, if possible

2 . Try on as many pairs as needed t o m a k e a g o o d c o m p a r i s o n . D o n ’t rush.

5 .

Romano’s writing process is very detailed. First is the research. For example, he travelled to Sicily, Italy for his piece “Carusi: The Shame of Sicily,” as a part of his new Heritage Collection Series. His research takes him a month, sometimes longer. Thereafter, his general goal is to write 1500 words a day.

3 . M a k e

where your foot needs it

4 . C h

Lay them on a flat surface and make sure they lay flat at the middle of the shoes Check the quality of the eyelets stitching, gluing and laces

6 . Tr y

foot is the biggest.

to introduce the new ones and “take off and write the dialogue.” This is actually a common approach writers take.

same place your foot flexes.

1 0 . The heel should fit snugly and shouldn’t rub or slip.

7 . Try shoes on standing up Allow

toe

1 1 . Try shoes on with the socks you run in

1

“You know the story. Characters are together and they’re chatting with each other. They’re going towards let’s say a mob murder. They talk to themselves in mob language. Then if there’s any love interests in the book, that’s easy because you’ve been in love so the romantic plot comes out in my writing. It just happens. It’s one of those things if you’re not a writer I don’t know if you can ever understand it,” said Romano. “That’s how I do it.”

. S

Romano appreciates the reactions he gets from his readers.

8 . Don’t rely on a break in period. S h o e s s h

y you by them

9 . The key to finding the best shoe is comfort, not price.

for introducing characters in a way that does not confuse his readers. Romano says that his characters tend

comfort, not the size printed inside 1

“The most rewarding is positive reviews and readers who contact me to discuss chapters and characters,” he said. “It’s a blast. I enjoy meeting people and getting input on my writing. I’m successful if one person likes my book.”

swers, find someone who does

However, he recognizes that he is also susceptible to criticism and that the possibility of one negative feedback in the midst of positives could stay in your mind. “You got to develop a thick skin. It’s a different world.”■

Dr Michael Gross is the founder and director of Active Orthopedic and Sports Medicine He is the section chief of sports medicine and the orthopedic director of the Center for Sports Medicine at Hackensack 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 – weekend warriors to professional athletes Dr Gross can be reached by email at drgross@activeorthopedic com

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Hop In the ‘DRIVER’S’ Seat

Educational Subscription Box Accelerates Learning and Discovery

By Tara DeLorenzo

Looking to build connections and to help ease the burden for caretakers everywhere, Jessica Ippolito and Jessica Matfus, both working mothers of 2-year-olds, have developed an interactive and multi-disciplinary monthly box of activities for toddlers and preschoolers.

DRIVE is an activity box directed to toddlers and preschoolers that focuses on emergent literacy, math skills, fine and gross motor skills and sensory play with modifications available for children of an older age range. These 20 activities each month feature a thematic element, and for their premiere box, DRIVE celebrated with its “Under the Winter Sky” January collection.

The company and these collections of activities originally were inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic, as Ippolito, a stylist at Mania Hair Studio in Park Ridge and a River Vale resident, had to go back to work after the quarantine was lifted.

“It was a real adjustment for me. I was a stay-at-home mom for those three months, and then I had to return to work. We just had a calm, relaxing three months. We didn’t go anywhere, we didn’t have to prep or plan and then things opened back up, and I went back to work, and life just came flooding back. I was overwhelmed. It was at this moment that the idea came to me. I wanted to prepare myself and help others in the same situation as well,” Ippolito, president and founder of DRIVE LLC, said. “I kept thinking I needed to prep activities a month in advance, so they were readily accessible when needed, then thought, ‘Oh wait, I need to do this for all the parents out there just like me who are struggling.’ The stars aligned, and I met Jess [Matfus], and she told me she was in early education previously; I knew she was the person I needed to do this with.”

Matfus, a working professional, co-founder of DRIVE and breast cancer survivor, has a background in early childhood education and once worked in New York City as a LEAD instructor for a program for 2-year-olds. When the pandemic began, she and her family had moved back to River Vale. There, while on a neighborhood drive, she met Ippolito outside in her yard, and the two became fast friends. Matfus was immediately on board when she heard the concept for DRIVE.

“[The quarantine] was just a really tough time,” she said. “I was just coming out of standardized care treatment, and it was a really hard transition for me because it was like, ‘Okay, you’re going through cancer treatment, and now you’re done, so good luck,’ and this

“The two began this venture at the end of September, as they sat down to figure out what toddlers and preschoolers really need and what activities would engage them while also focusing on emergent literacy, math skills, fine and gross motor skills and sensory play.”

came about at the time the pandemic hit, and I felt lost. To be able to connect with Jess [Ippolito] who had this vision, I really did feel something in my bones that this was going to be something special and really great. I was very excited to be a part of it and to feel that energy and willingness to help other people and develop a program was really exciting. There are so many things about DRIVE that sparks a lot of energy behind us. There’s something really special about the name itself to catapult us forward and provide for other families.”

The two began this venture at the end of September, as they sat down to figure out what toddlers and preschoolers really need and what activities would engage them while also focusing on emergent literacy, math skills, fine and gross motor skills and sensory play. They spoke about their own children – Ippolito’s 2-year-old Olivia and Matfus’ 2-year-old son River – and what they like to do and started developing activities.

The two also made sure to incorporate a theme to each collection and mapped out a calendar for what they wanted each month. For January, a favorite of the activities, they said, is the craft project for the toddlers to make their own penguin. And with that penguin, there’s also an alphabetized fishing game, where they can feed the penguin, making it not only an art project but an emergent literacy one as well. With the themes too, Ippolito and Matfus hope to see the learning extend into books being read or movies being watched, so the children are able to continue their learnings.

Their goal in all the activities

though, in addition to educating toddlers, is to help take the stress and tension from parents, grandparents or any caretaker for young children.

“Every project won’t be one we fully created; there are thousands of resources out there for parents and teachers to find, and what we’re really trying to do is that legwork for parents, so they don’t have to do the planning and prepping. They can just focus on the actual engagement with their child,” Matfus said. “So, we’re not reinventing the wheel, we’re just making sure that wheel is driving a bit more smoothly to be able to make sure each child is getting a full engaging 20 activities a month.”

Ippolito concurred and added, “I think the hardest part is the planning and the prepping and trying to prep it when your crying toddler is hanging on you. You’re not engaged. We want to take that away so you can just take out a project and enjoy – enjoy being with your toddler. Those precious moments go so fast that if you can soak up a laugh or soak up hearing the ABCs for the first time, that’s the best gift out of all of this.”

The name DRIVE itself sparked not only their serendipitous meeting, but also from the idea of the caretaker being the driver – a caretaker looking to maximize their time with their toddler in a meaningful way – and the toddler being the little driver, being driven by their caretaker to slow down and grow with fun activities.

DRIVE seeks primarily to spark inspiration in its users. Their readymade art experiences are cost efficient, and with each month, a calendar is provided so that each day, people are ideally on the same project, allowing a connection between

Photos by Amelia Holowaty Krales –Instagram @holowatyrose; Twitter @holowaty

From left, DRIVE Co-Founder Jessica Matfus, Olivia, River and DRIVE Co-Founder Jessica Ippolito.

Olivia engages in one of the 20 activities featured in the thematic monthly box.

DRIVE Co-Founders Jessica Ippolito and Jessica Matfus developed an interactive and multi-disciplinary monthly box of activities for toddlers and preschoolers, DRIVE.

“Their hope is, with the Facebook and online community, that parents can share their projects and have the toddlers feel a little more connected as they’ll all be doing the same projects at the same time.”

users. At the end of the month though, a challenge is presented to help toddlers dive further into their own imagination.

“When you finally get to the bottom of the box, you have this empty box, and we want to drive their imagination,” Matfus explained. “We’re asking people to think about what they’ve learned. For example, with January’s theme of ‘Under the Winter Sky,’ with these activities and skills they’ve learned, what can they do with just this box? Can you make it into a sled; can you make it into an igloo? We just want to make these simple things ignite inspiration in their homes.”

Additionally, with their collections, DRIVE is looking to build a community, especially in this time of isolation. Their hope is, with the Facebook and online community, that parents can share their projects and have the toddlers feel a little more connected as they’ll all be doing the same projects at the same time.

“Community isn’t lost with DRIVE, and that’s something that’s really important to us because we were so disconnected for so long,” Matfus said.

Another essential element to DRIVE is giving back. While they one day hope to be able to donate a box for every box purchased, they’re currently partnering with Soul Ryed-

ers, an organization committed to empowering and aiding those in the community affected by cancer. DRIVE will be donating a box to a parent of a young child so they’re able to have something ready while going through cancer treatments, something Matfus said she wished she had had during her own treatments.

Ippolito and Matfus both have high hopes and aspirations for their budding company, and with customers from New Jersey to California, they are excited to hear the feedback, not just from the parents but also from the toddlers as they experience these activities.

“We’ve been spending all this time together prepping and planning projects for upcoming months, and it’s awesome to see it growing,” Ippolito said. “I had this idea driving in the car and now it’s a business, so that’s really special to me. I [also] feel so lucky to have a best friend out of this now, and I feel all of that has been the best part. A lot of the activities you can do just once, but others you can go back to. Like the fish game, Olivia and I probably have played once a day for the last two months. It’s fun, and that’s what we really want these kids to get out of these activities. We want them to use them multiple times and come up with different things. And as a parent, seeing your child

grow is so exciting, so if parents see that with their child, developing new skills, it will make them happy. I know from personal experience.”

With every collection, they hope to ease the stress of planning and prep for parents and caretakers in order for them to enjoy the journey with their children and be able to fully engage with their toddlers in meaningful and impactful ways.

“We just don’t want you to worry about anything,” Matfus said. “We want you to sit down, open this box and take a project out day-by-day, if you want to do it day-by-day, and just do something fun.”

More information can be found on DRIVE’s website www.drivesteertheplay.com and Instagram (@drive. steertheplay). Boxes can be purchased for $50 and include 20 multi-disciplinary activities. February’s theme will be “Love & Acceptance.” ■

The

Emergency

The

Bobbi

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FAMILIES FIND FREEDOM Through FTMobility

By Megan Lupo

It was 17 years ago when a quiet man in his 50s timidly entered the showroom of FTMobility, a Saddle Brook company that specializes in selling, renting and servicing wheelchair accessible vehicles.

His wife experienced a traumatic brain injury a little over a year prior, and he was new to navigating the rehabilitation process. Yet through all of the then-recent uncertainties and unimaginable life adaptations, he knew that he needed to buy a van functional for his wife.

With his single intent to find easier transportation to therapy sessions and doctor appointments, he maintained his reserved manner throughout the sales process and selected a custom Toyota Sienna that was modified with a power wheelchair conversion.

He came back two weeks later to pick up his license plates and registration, yet this time, his aura of apprehension vanished. An overwhelmingness of joy illuminated in his teary eyes, as he reminisced his wife and him traveling to their favorite restaurant over the weekend – a slice of normalcy he didn’t think would ever happen again. His vehicle purchase brought so much more than what he initially thought – it gave him and his wife hope.

This is the story that Nicole Bryson, CEO of FTMobility, has told numerous times to family, friends and employees of her first sale. This is the story that sparked Bryson’s passion of wanting to make a difference in people’s lives.

FTMobility has generated ease for thousands of individuals and families in need of wheelchair transportation, like that husband and wife, since its founding in 1975.

“I started working for the company, and I just was immediately intrigued by how life changing this type of service is when people are not able to do simple things like go get a gallon of milk or go to the post office,” said Bryson, who became the owner in 2018. “You see the world through the eyes of someone who uses a wheelchair, and how big of a deal it is to have the freedom of an accessible vehicle that they can actually do those small tasks.”

Seeing the impact that these customizations have on people inspires Bryson to do all she can to touch even more lives for the rest of her life.

Bryson began her journey at FTMobility at a time where she was just looking for a job in 2003, unaware of the existence of modified vehicles. But she soon understood its profound effect and became more involved.

Regardless of disability or situation, Bryson emphasized that there’s no limitations for what FTMobility could do in providing accessible solutions for people – the essence of the business goes way beyond trying to make a sale.“ It’s not what we do, it’s why we do it” is a motto engraved within the FTMobility team.

“You see the world through the eyes of someone who uses a wheelchair, and how big of a deal it is to have the freedom of an accessible vehicle that they can actually do those small tasks.”

The way that FTMobility assists is individual to everyone that comes in, Bryson explained. If somebody already owns a minivan, as long as it’s a newer model and meets certain criteria, then a wheelchair ramp conversion can be produced on the factory line.

However, it’s more common that people purchase from FTMobility’s inventory of new or pre-owned vans that are already equipped with a variety of ramp system styles to choose from. These vehicles were previously converted to be wheelchair accessible by a manufacturer and then distributed to dealers like FTMobility.

For vans either already purchased or bought through FTMobility, further modification can occur after it’s converted to fit each particular need. For example, if an individual only has full function of their upper body, the vehicle can be adapted for driving. The ramp will lead up to the driver’s position and equipment will allow that person to operate the vehicle with their hands.

She was promoted from receptionist to salesperson to general manager – which she never envisioned – so she taught herself all that she could, even staying after work hours. She poured through the manuals and absorbed every detail about the mobility equipment, systems and conversions.

After 15 years, she became the owner after the previous one retired. But that didn’t come without its challenges. A main one was being a woman in a male-dominated industry.

“I had some employees that weren’t up to listening to a woman boss,” Bryson said. “If I told the customer that they had a certain mechanical issue with their conversion, a lot of times I wasn’t taken seriously because I was a woman relaying that information. It’s almost like they needed that to be validated by a man.”

Yet, Bryson said that she chose to look at her struggles and being underestimated, not as discouragements, but as a chance to diversify her profession.

Another hardship has been the COVID-19 pandemic, as FTMobility’s customers are at high risk of the virus and traveling less. This has caused devastation to the rental business and concern for the safety of the company’s mobility community. It was through these rough times that compelled Bryson to end the year with optimism for a better 2021.

Although FTMobility tries to donate a vehicle every year to someone in need, the company was able to donate a fully equipped 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan with a BraunAbility wheelchair conversion two days before this past Christmas.

The recipient of this gift was Cindi Albinder, a single mother from Mahwah, whose 8-year-old daughter, Bria, was born with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Albinder, herself, is a bone cancer

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survivor with an endoprosthetic limb from surgery. As her daughter, who is dependent on her wheelchair, continued to grow, it became too strenuous to lift her in and out of her previous 2012 Honda CR-V. Overwhelmed with medical bills, Albinder was unable to afford a wheelchair adaptable van.

The pandemic brought upon additional stress and desperation for Albinder, who persistently had to look for therapists to come to her home.

She, among others, was, then, referred to FTMobility by the Special Kids Fund, a nationwide foundation that donates wheelchair accessible vans, after Bryson reached out to a partner there for some applications of those in the Bergen County area.

Albinder was chosen.

“They called me and told me I won, and I was completely floored. Not having school and not getting her therapy is not good. She’s regressed,” Albinder said. “So, it was just nice to be able to know that this organization gave such a beautiful thing. They gave us the gift of freedom for Christmas, and, so in 2021, we’re going to be able to do a lot of a lot more things.”

Her new van includes a ramp that leads the wheelchair to the cleared middle aisle, where it’s held in place by four tie downs, Albinder said. With 2021 here, Albinder is looking forward

to taking her daughter to the swings at the park. Bria loves being outside, and the new van makes it possible to go places.

What FTMobility does opens the world up to people like Albinder and her daughter, and Albinder is grateful for the care that Bryson shows all.

“She has an innate sense of compassion for the disabled community. And I think that she tries to be a conduit to freedom for disabled people,” Albinder said. “My first impression of her was that she’s a beautiful person.”

For Bryson, she and her staff ensure that they are serving their customers to the fullest, whether it’s their 24-hour maintenance and service or just establishing a rapport.

Bryson said that she almost always hears back from her customers. Their situation may be profound in ways of medical bills, home adaptations or therapies, but their vehicle modifications bring a sense of independence to go to the beach, store or visit family that was unthinkable previously. One of the biggest aspects of FTMobility is serving the veterans of New Jersey.

“There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t leave my store, thinking there’s just so much to be grateful for, even on the most difficult days,” Bryson said. “It’s so much more than a job or career, selling a vehicle. It’s so much bigger than that.”■

Cindi Albinder and Bria with their new van from the vehicle donation event on Dec. 23.

Photos by Danielle Podence.

INJURY on the TREADMILL 10 Ways to Avoid

By Dr. Michael Gross

It’s the dead of winter, in the middle of a global pandemic, so many of us who want to exercise are locked inside with a treadmill. Treadmills are an easy way to maintain your cardiovascular fitness in the comfort of your own home or in the warmth of the gym as they begin to reopen.

However, according to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, treadmills are the most common to cause injuries among all types of exercise equipment. Statistics show the injuries happen to people of all ages, at home and in gyms.

Here are 10 common mistakes that can sideline you while you’re already sidelined indoors. [Editor’s Note: These ideas can be easily modified for any indoor exercise equipment – elliptical, stationary bike, Stairmaster or rowing machine.]

1. Not Warming Up.

This is a common mistake many people make when doing any exercise – not just when using the treadmill. While it is tempting to just hop on the treadmill and start running at your desired speed, your body needs to tune itself for your run. Cold muscles lack flexibility and blood flow, so it is important to warm them up before putting stress on them through exercise. A good warm up may begin by performing static stretches and range of motion exercises and then walking slowly for 5-10 minutes. If you just start running, you risk injury to your muscles, tendons and joints. You also run the risk of cramping up, which can shorten your workout or lead to injuries.

2. Not Cooling Down.

Cooling down is just as important as warming up. When using a treadmill, it is good practice to reduce your speed gradually toward the end of your run instead of just jumping off of the machine. Most treadmills will automatically cool you down by taking about 2 minutes to reduce speed as you reach the end of your program. Many treadmills also include a cool down program about five minutes long to use at the end of your workout. Cooling down the muscles is an important part of injury prevention because muscles tighten quickly if activity suddenly stops. To effectively cool down their muscles, exercisers should run or walk at a slower pace

for the last 10-15 percent of their time on the treadmill. They should also stretch their hips, legs and lower back. This is to avoid cramping as well as feeling dizzy when you are done working out. If you run at max speed and immediately stop, your heart rate has a sudden drop. This results in dizziness, which can lead to injury. Cooling down properly will reduce your heart rate in an efficient manner.

3. Holding the Bars.

Holding on to the handlebars may provide you with a certain measure of security, but it is not a good idea. Primarily, holding the bars is reducing the efficiency of your run. Holding the bars makes it easier to run, so you aren’t getting the most out of your routine. More importantly, it is altering your running form. You are increasing your risk of neck and back injuries because you are leaning over. People think that holding onto the treadmill makes the machine safer. In fact, the opposite is true. By holding on and aligning your body in an unnatural way, you increase the risk for longer-term injuries and pain – especially in the shoulders, knees, lower back and hips. Odds are you will be very sore when you step off the treadmill after you are done running. In addition, holding onto the machine makes the exercise easier and less intense. That means fewer calories burned. The treadmill may display one number for total calories burned, but the treadmill doesn’t know that you’re holding on. It’s estimated that holding onto the treadmill results in 20-25 percent fewer calories burned. If holding the bars gives you a feeling of security, decrease the speed, the incline or both. I like to remind patients the bars are there to help you get on and off the treadmill, not to use while you’re moving.

4. Stepping Off the Treadmill While It’s Still Moving.

This should fall under the category of common sense. Don’t spit into the wind, and never step off of the treadmill while it is still moving. You may think it is no issue, but you are taking a risk you don’t need to take. Many people decide to get off the treadmill while it is moving for a number of reasons. However, when you do so, you are cutting out your cooling down period and, most importantly, you run the risk of slipping off or

losing your balance. If you do that, you could wind up with a serious injury. Slow to a stop before getting off. Before you get on the treadmill, have everything you need with you. This includes water. You want to stay hydrated, and the last thing you want to do is cut your run off in the middle so that you can get water. Most treadmills have pockets where you can put things you might need. Consider bringing a towel in case you sweat as well.

5. Improper Incline Use.

“You want to stay hydrated, and the last thing you want to do is cut your run off in the middle so that you can get water.”

Most treadmills allow you to adjust the incline. This can increase the efficiency of your run by making you move uphill. Most experts agree that a 1-2 percent incline helps to make a treadmill workout more comparable to an outdoor workout. However, some people use too steep of an incline when exercising. There are several potential problems involved with using a large incline. First, you run the risk of falling off the treadmill if the speed is too high. Second, you are putting dangerous pressure on your back and knees each time you increase the incline, which is not the goal of your run. You are better off using a modest incline and a slightly faster speed to get the most out of your run. If you do want to add hill work to your routine, I usually recommend not going above 5 percent and not going for more than 5 minutes at a time. You should avoid running at a steep incline for more than 5 minutes. You’ll get a much better, safer workout if you switch between running a couple of minutes with an incline and running a couple of minutes without an incline. You could even do shorter hill intervals, like 30 or 60 seconds, to mix things up. It will make your runs a lot more interesting and prevent you from getting bored.

6. Exceeding Optimal Heart Rate.

Most treadmills come with tools to measure your heart rate. This is something you should take advantage of when running. To figure out your maximum heart rate, subtract your age from 220. Depending on the style of training you are doing, there are certain heart

rate levels you should maintain while running. Even for the most intense training, you should keep your heart rate below 85 percent of the maximum. If you are exceeding that number, you are putting strain on your heart. Pushing the maximum heart rate won’t help you burn any more calories. Calories burnt equals weight times distance, so it is definitely not worth the risk.

7. Bad Strides.

Running on a treadmill has a different feel than running on the street or sidewalk. The belt makes many people nervous, and they compensate by taking shorter strides. This is not a good way to run. It increases your chances of stumbling, which could lead to major injuries. It’s common for people to feel nervous about falling off a treadmill, so they change their running form and don’t use the same running form as they use outside. You should be running on the treadmill the same way you would run outdoors. Try to run with your natural gait, and avoid taking short, choppy strides.

Another common form mistake is overstriding, landing heel first with your foot well ahead of your body’s center of gravity. Since the treadmill’s belt is moving you forward, overstriding creates a braking force with the belt. To avoid this, try to keep your feet under your body, not ahead or behind it. When you first start using a treadmill, you should figure out a comfortable stride that is efficient. Then, do your best to maintain that stride every time you run. Using strides that are too big are equally dangerous. The key is to find the right balance.

Anything that throws off your posture – whether it is hunching over to watch your feet or leaning to the left for a better view of the TV or to check on the progress of your buddy on the next treadmill – is generally a bad idea. When you do this, your neck is pulled to the right or dropped forward and one part of the musculature is

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8. Bad Posture.

getting stretched while another is getting tightened. If your gym is equipped with TV screens, you’re better off in the back row so you don’t have to crane your neck to see the screen. Best is a treadmill equipped with its own screen. Keep your shoulders down, not up by your ears and keep your arms relaxed.

9. Don’t Text and Run.

Gym-goers who exercise while constantly checking their iPhones, iPods or iPads and watching TV or reading the latest newspaper, make trainers nervous. Distractions can help pass the time, but multitasking can be dangerous if it throws off your stride or hinders your balance.

10. Know Your Limits.

You want to push yourself while you run, but not to the point where you lose control. It is important to find a workout that serves you best. If you feel strained, you should stop running or transition to jogging. Not knowing your limits can lead to a series of aches, pains

and injuries. Everything from tendonitis to sore feet can occur if you push yourself too hard.

Treadmills are great exercise tools, especially once the cold weather sets in. However, they are only useful if you can use them correctly. Unnecessary injuries are not only frustrating, but will keep you from maintaining the fitness level you are training for. Common sense and good exercise habits should help you avoid these common pitfalls that come with running on a treadmill. Take some time to get used to your treadmill and your running habits. After that, you should be fine and might even get to love the treadmill.

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. ■

� Auto� Ferrari Portofino: Does Personality Make

By Richard Posluszny

The Car?

When it comes to certain automakers, it’s almost hard to believe there’s an “entry-level” car in their product portfolio. That’s because the benchmark is set so high, a manufacturer’s starter vehicle is what many marques aspire to achieve.

That’s the position that Ferrari finds itself in these days.

Today’s Ferraris are faster, they leverage more technology and they’re more well-built than ever before. Simply put, the prancing horse’s autos have come a long way. Cars that would have once been considered weekend toys 25 years ago have now achieved daily driver status.

Our subject, the Ferrari Portofino, embodies this perfectly. With a base price under $211,000 it isn’t what you’d exactly call a value purchase; however, when compared with its siblings’ price tags it is relatively economical. Here’s the thing though: Not only will the Portofino provide you with a thrill, it can be used just like any other automobile. Let me explain.

When my test Portofino rolled off the delivery truck, I was smitten almost immediately. Rather than being painted the cliché Rosso Corsa, “racing red,” this Ferrari was different. That’s because it was sporting a Verde Zeltwig paint job – a dark metallic green. Frankly, this changes everything. This transforms any Ferrari from a shouty lightning rod into something more subdued and, dare I say, classy. It doesn’t hurt that the Portofino is a drastically improved variant of the modern California and California T models. There’s just one difference: The Portofino actually looks good. Whereas the aforementioned variants had some odd

design choices and a Kim Kardashian-inspired derriere, the Portofino looks slick at any angle. And, whether you’re using the hard top or stowing it away so you can feel the wind in your hair, it looks magnificent.

I guess the third try is a charm.

Getting more comfortable behind the three-spoke, button-laden steering wheel, it becomes readily apparent that this Ferrari’s interior has received quite an upgrade. The Portofino’s instrument panel places a large tachometer front and center, which is flanked by two screens that display driving information. I couldn’t quite get the hang of them fully, but I managed enough for my five days with the car – these require a crash course to use them effectively. The California’s depressing, Chrysler-sourced head unit has been ditched for a 10-inch display for infotainment purposes in the Portofino. While software has never been Maranello’s strong suit, this user experience is big step in the right direction. That’s because it operates fast and is relatively simple to use, although certain functions are buried behind submenus you may not have realized are even there.

My test vehicle was equipped with the optional, fully electric seats. While they do cost an additional $6,400 and should be standard equipment, the variety of adjustments make you feel right at home as you can set the bolsters, thigh support, lumbar, etc., to your liking. The reason why these should be standard equipment is simple: The Portofino is a luxury grand touring convertible. Once you’re settled in the car, you quickly realize that the wall-to-wall leather and multiple screens separate this from a stripped down, track-focused Ferrari. This only gets reinforced once you drive it.

By depressing the brake pedal and pushing the red Start button on the steering wheel, the Portofino’s 3.9-liter, turbocharged V8 motor sparks to life. And, boy, does it wake up with a growl. Churning out over 590 horsepower and about 560 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine has some serious grunt. Paired with a seven-speed, dualclutch transmission, shifts happen in the blink of an eye. Zero to 60 happens in a scant 3.5 seconds.

But here’s the funny thing: While these numbers are massive and the Portofino is supercar fast, it doesn’t exactly feel that way. The sensation of speed is not intense, unless of course, you want it to be and you plant your “go” foot through the floorboards. That’s because it’s engineered to travel long distances at breakneck speeds in comfort. This is made abundantly clear with the steering wheel’s manettino switch that has only three modes: Comfort, Sport and ESC Off, which turns off traction control – this is ill-advised unless you have precision driving skills. If you’ve driven other Ferraris, you’re probably going to wonder “Where’s the Race mode?” That’s the point, folks. It’s not there. Let me reassure you though, the Portofino is a proper Ferrari. The engineering team did not lose sight of what makes its vehicles worthy of the badge. You notice it when you first take this car through a corner. Unlike many of today’s modern sports cars that have artificially heavy steering weight, the Portofino’s steering is light and laser sharp. This makes this nearly 3,700-pound vehicle feel nimble and darty. While I would have liked more communicative feedback, it’s not a surprise given the Portofino leverages an electric power-assisted steering rack. This is, unfortunately, part of the “new normal” in the industry. Pointing this Ferrari from corner to corner, the direct steering gives the driver an abundance of confidence as it is matched with tons of grip when pushed in the twisties. I can only imagine how much better it would be if I could actually read the road.

What Ferrari’s engineers deserve a ton of credit for is the tuning of its suspension. A sports car with this much power needs to have a firm ride to keep it planted; however, Ferrari must have done a deal with the devil. Somehow, someway the ride is quite comfortable even when in Sport mode. And, if you find yourself stumbling across some particularly harsh roads, you tap the “Bumpy Road” button on the steering wheel to smooth the ride out even further. I am pretty sure it’s sorcery.

More impressively, where there’s a noticeable improvement is how the car’s chassis absorbs bumps. In a previous experience with a California T – top up – you’d hear an occasional squeak or rattle. Not so, this time. The Portofino is solid and, to me, akin to

room for your longest toe to push off

The main portion of the shoe that surrounds your foot is called uppers M odern s hoes have s ynthetic uppers rather t h a n l

lighter, washable, breathe better and are more flexible, req

best suited to your expected usage.

The midsole is located between the outsole and the upper Many believe it is the most important part of any running shoe It controls excessive foot motion and provides cush-

The difference is that this Italian GT has personality. Around town that V8 motor keeps itself in check. But, luggage for two with the top up, we hit the interstate

Polyurethane is also commonly used; although durable, it i

are all attempts to increase cushioning and durability at the same time

The outsole is the treaded layer on the bottom of the shoe

g l u e d t o

traction and absorbs shock The outsole is usually made of b l o w n r u b b e r, g u m r u b

combination of the three Blown rubber is the lightest, but least dur able. Solid rubber materials are considered the best material for training shoes Stud or waffle outsoles are good

remained steadfast.

ridged sole, which is more flexible and best for running on asphalt or cement

The heel counter is the rigid material that surrounds the heel Its function is to stabilize and support the heel An additional external counter is usually added between the midsole and the base of the heel for extra support Sometimes a wedge is used to add height to the heel. This enhances the ability of the shoe to absorb shock and reduce injury

As I was descending from the Four Season’s skyhigh, 60th floor lobby to make the return trip home, I had a few moments to think about the final leg in the Portofino. One thing was guaranteed: It would be a whole lot of fun. I think the only smile bigger than mine was worn by the bellhops.

You know what they say, personality goes a long way. ■

A Jersey girl with a serious makeup and skincare obsession.

Cold-Weather

Skincare Essentials

Wintertime is the season to really focus on hydration. Whether it’s a hydrating face wash or a treatment for your hair, we all could use a dose of moisture this time of year. I love doing different kinds of weekly treatments in the wintertime as well. Another great winter beauty tip is to add anything dewy to your daily makeup application. I love to add a great cream bronzer or highlight to my makeup routine to really kick up that glow in the cold and dreary winter months. Check out all my go-to winter favorites below.

➊ Skinfix Barrier+ Foaming Oil Cleanser

I have never tried this brand, and now I am wondering why not. This clean beauty face wash is a hybrid between an oil cleanser and a foaming face wash – you get the benefit of both. The oil removes makeup and moisturizes, and the foaming part leaves your skin super clean. It contains coconut oil and a triple lipid complex to hydrate, reduce redness and fine lines and really plump up your dehydrated winter skin. Available at Sephora, Paramus.

by Kristin Favaloro

➋ Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil

The Olaplex line is my new go-to hair obsession. This bonding oil applied to the ends of the hair after heat styling actually repairs the bonds in the hair and helps with breakage. After a few uses, I really saw a difference in my hair. It is really a lifesaver. Available at Sephora, Paramus.

➌ Jones Road Beauty Miracle Balm

Jones Road is the new clean beauty line created by the iconic Bobbi Brown. This balm is truly a “miracle” for dry, dull skin. I love the shade bronze to give me a gorgeous natural glow that leaves my skin so dewy and fresh looking. Available at jonesroadbeauty.com.

➍ Antedotum Vital Face Oil

Wintertime is the perfect time to add a face oil into your skincare routine. This full spectrum CBD face oil contains one of the highest concentrations of CBD that leaves lackluster skin nourished and noticeably plumper. It also calms redness and protects and regenerates the skin. The packaging is beautiful also. Available at www.antedotum.com.

➎ Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Illuminating Hand & Body Scrub

This drugstore find is one of my favorites in the wintertime. I love to really exfoliate all the dry dead skin off my body, especially in the winter. This leaves skin so soft and glowing and works great on dry hands as well. Available at Harmon, Closter.

➏ YSL Touché Eclat All-In-One Glow Foundation

This is the perfect medium coverage foundation for the winter months. I love the hydrating skincare that is in this foundation to leave your skin hydrated and glowing. Available at Sephora, Paramus.

➐ Glo Skin Beauty Retinol + C Smoothing Peel

Bring the treatment room to your bathroom with this amazing potent peel. This treatment leaves your skin ridiculously smooth and glowing. I highly recommend it as one of the best at-home skincare treatments I have tried. Available at Blue Mercury, Closter.

➑ Farmacy Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer

This is the perfect wintertime moisturizer for dry skin. I love this thick, nourishing clean beauty moisturizer, especially at night, during the winter months. I love to really pack it on before bed to wake up with gorgeous, hydrated glowing skin. Available at Sephora, Paramus.

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

Delightful Recipes For Frightful Weather*

The weather outside may be frightful but try these winter recipes that are sure to be delightful. Winter is the season of comfort food. Comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy on the calories, however. Cozy up on a cold day with these satisfying dishes.

4 large eggs

ice water

2 cups fresh water

1 quart vegetable broth

Vegetarian Ramen Zoodle Bowl

Total time: 30 minutes, Servings: 4

5 ounces (3 cups) broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces

10 ounces (4 cups) spiralized zucchini

5 ounces (5 packed cups) baby spiach

1 Tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, white miso paste

1/4teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

1 Tablespoon toasted sesame oil, plus additional for garnish, to taste

2 cups mung bean sprouts, for garnish

chili garlic sauce, for garnish

1cup shredded raw carrot, for garnish

4 Tablespoons crushed peanuts, for garnish

In large saucepan of gently boiling water, cook eggs 7 minutes then transfer to bowl of ice water. Drain cooking water from saucepan then add broth and fresh water. Bring to simmer over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook 3 minutes then add zucchini and spinach.

Continue cooking until spinach is wilted and zucchini is crisp-tender, 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Ladle about 1/2 cup broth from saucepan into small bowl. Add miso paste and 1/4 teaspoon salt; whisk to combine. Return mixture to soup, add sesame oil and stir to combine. Add additional salt, to taste. Cover to keep warm.

Remove eggs from ice bath; peel then cut in half lengthwise. Ladle 2 cups soup into four serving bowls. Top each portion with one egg and 1/2 cup sprouts. Drizzle with chili garlic sauce and additional sesame oil, to taste. Top each serving with 1/4 cup shredded carrot and 1 tablespoon crushed peanuts.

Nutritional information per serving:10 grams net carbs; 17 grams total carbs; 7 grams fiber; 16 grams protein; 13 grams fat; 263 calories.

*As seen in BC The Mag Health, Beauty and Fitness Winter 2020.

Flourless Salted Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Total time: 50 minutes, Yield: 24 cookies

1 cup sugar-free smooth or creamy peanut butter

2 teaspoons stevia extract powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 large egg

1.teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup sugar-free semisweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Set oven racks in upper- and lower-third positions. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

In medium bowl, use handheld electric mixer on medium speed to beat peanut butter, stevia, baking soda and salt, scraping down sides if needed, until well combined, about 1 minute. Reduce speed to low, add egg and vanilla extract; beat until combined.

Shape dough into 24 balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place 2 inches apart on prepared cookie sheets. Using tines of fork, carefully flatten each ball, creating crisscross pattern.

Bake, rotating cookie sheets from top to bottom and back to front halfway through, until edges begin to brown and cookies are set, 7-9 minutes. Cookies should not be browned. Let cool 10 minutes on cookie sheets then carefully transfer to cooling rack to cool completely.

In small microwave-safe bowl, add chocolate chips and microwave on high in 20-second increments, stirring after each, until melted, about 1 minute.

Dip dry fork into chocolate then drizzle over cookies. Sprinkle with sea salt.

Nutritional information per serving: (1 cookie): 1.5 grams net carbs; 3 grams total carbs; 1.5 grams fiber; 3 grams protein; 6.5 grams fat; 79 calories.

Broccolini and Bacon Egg Bites

Recipe courtesy of “The Atkins 100 Eating Solution”

Total time: 45 minutes, Servings: 4

Nonstick cooking spray

5 slices (4 ounces)

no-sugar- added bacon

5 large eggs

3 ounces cream cheese

2 Tablespoons feta cheese

1 Tablespoon hot sauce

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

4 1/2 ounces broccolini (5-7 stalks), thinly sliced

1 Tablespoon water

1 1/2 cups baby arugula

1 Tablespoon lemon juice

1 Tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1.cup fresh blueberries

4 Tablespoons crushed peanuts, for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat eight silicone egg-bite mold cups or eight cups of standard nonstick muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray and set in large baking pan.

In large nonstick skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until golden, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to drain. Chop bacon into small pieces.

In blender, puree eggs, cream cheese, feta cheese, hot sauce and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon fat from skillet. Add broccolini, water and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until broccolini is tender, 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Fill each egg cup with 1 teaspoon bacon and 1 tablespoon broccolini. Top with egg mixture, filling cups to about 1/8 inch from top. Add just enough boiled water to baking pan to come halfway up sides of molds.

Bake egg bites until set, 20-25 minutes. Take pan from oven then take molds from water bath. Let egg bites cool then remove from molds.

In medium bowl, toss arugula, lemon juice, oil and salt and pepper, to taste. Place 3/4 cup salad, two egg bites and 1/4 cup blueberries on four plates and serve.

Nutritional information per serving: 9 grams net carbs; 11 grams total carbs; 2 grams fiber; 14 grams protein; 34 grams fat; 400 calories.

Quinoa Salad with Orange Cilantro Salad Dressing

Yield: 2 cups

Dressing:

1/2 cup Zevia Orange Soda

1/4 cup lime juice

1/2 cup olive oil

1 cup fresh cilantro

1/2 avocado

1 teaspoon garlic

Quinoa Salad:

1 cup quinoa

leafy greens (optional)

1 orange, cut into pieces (optional)

1 grapefruit, cut into pieces (optional)

1 lime, juice only

1/2 avocado, diced (optional)

1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)

1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)

To make dressing: In food processor, pulse orange soda, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, avocado and garlic until consistency is smooth.

To make quinoa salad: Cook quinoa according to package directions and let cool. Once quinoa is cool, add to bowl with orange pieces, if desired; grapefruit pieces, if desired; lime juice; avocado, if desired; feta cheese, if desired; and diced onion, if desired. Top with orange cilantro salad dressing.

Spiced Citrus Ginger Mocktail

Yield: 1 mocktail

Concentrate:

1 cup fresh-squeezed orange juice

1/2 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice

1orange peel

1lime peel

1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns, lightly crushed

5 cardamom pods, lightly crushed

2 cinnamon sticks, lightly crushed

Mocktail:

1/3 cup concentrate

1 can Zevia Ginger Ale ice lime wedge, for garnish (optional) orange wedge, for garnish (optional)

To make concentrate: In small saucepan, combine orange juice, lime juice, orange peel, lime peel, black peppercorns, cardamom pods and cinnamon sticks. Bring to boil over high heat then turn to low; simmer until liquid has reduced by half, 3-4 minutes. Let cool and strain out solids. Transfer to glass jar and store until ready to use.

To make mocktail: Combine concentrate with ginger ale over ice.

Garnish with lime wedge or orange wedge, if desired.

Grape and Salmon Power Salad Servings: 6

Salad:

¾ cup pearled barley

3 cups firmly packed kale leaves, torn and sliced into ribbons

1 cup halved red and black seedless California grapes

8 oz cold, cooked salmon, skin and bones removed

½ cup walnuts, lightly toasted and coarsely chopped

Dressing:

¼ cup squeezed lemon juice

1 clove garlic, mashed

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 pinch cayenne pepper

½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Cook barley according to package directions. Drain and cool. Tenderize kale by blanching in boiling water 2-3 seconds or microwaving 1 minute. Rinse pieces in cold water to stop cooking; squeeze dry. Fluff and uncrimp dry kale pieces with fingers. In medium bowl, mix barley, kale, grapes, salmon and walnuts. To make dressing: In small bowl, whisk lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper and cayenne. Gradually mix in olive oil. Pour onto salad and fold gently to combine.

Nutritional information per serving: 413 calories; 15 g protein; 30 g carbohydrates; 16 g fat (47% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 22 mg cholesterol; 232 mg sodium; 500 mg potassium; 4 g fiber.

Shower and Wedding Favors

Gourmet Cookies and Treats by the Pound

Personalized Cookies and Cakes

Corporate Logos and Gifts

New All Natural Dog Cookies

CONTACT US: wekneadthedoughcookies.com (201)888-2222 wekneadthedoughcookies@gmail.com

LT Bar & Grill Opens at The Shops at Riverside

By Brandon Goldstein

We’re all thinking it: now is a tough time to open a restaurant. However, for the team behind the new LT Bar & Grill, and many other aspiring restauranteurs, their plans to open a place began long before the pandemic gripped our country and changed the way we do just about everything. However, with their exciting opening, Laurent Tourondel and his team are here to prove that with grit, perseverance and a commitment to incredible food, restaurants opening in the pandemic can still make their culinary mark on Bergen County.

For those unfamiliar with Chef Tourondel, this French native earned his culinary credentials all over the world before opening BLT Steak in New York City, Miami and several other locations internationally. Beyond his success as a restauranteur, LT has published three cookbooks, been named Restauranteur of the Year by “Bon Appetit” and has earned a James Beard nomination. Now, LT looks to tackle his next challenge: opening his latest concept amid a dining-restrictive pandemic at the Shops at Riverside in Hackensack.

LT Bar & Grill is a staple of the Shops at Riverside’s multi-million-dollar renovation bringing more dining elements to a mall already known for its cornerstone restaurant: Houston’s. While LT’s opening should make the wait times at one of Bergen’s busiest restaurants a bit more manageable, LT Bar & Grill will be making a mark on the local dining scene all its own.

A modern and sophisticated, yet casually cool ambiance, LT Bar & Grill’s design instantly reminds us of the grandiose yet more open-air concepts of many restaurants in New York City, with tall ceilings and sight lines from any seat in the house of the rest of the restaurant. LT Bar & Grill boasts 15,000 square feet between two floors, with LT Above, an 8,000-square-foot adaptable event space that can accommodate up to 300 people (eventually) right above the main restaurant.

While the bar sits idle now, it’s easy to picture this as a bustling happy hour destination once life returns to normal. Guests can enjoy hand-crafted cocktails prepared by skilled mixologists, beers from around the

“LT Bar & Grill is a staple of the SHOPS AT RIVERSIDE’S MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR RENOVATION bringing more dining elements to a mall already known for its cornerstone restaurant: Houston’s.”

world and an extensive wine list with one of the back walls fully designed and devoted to showing off that collection.

Starting with cocktails, as we often do, look no further than the Mezcal Southside: Agave e Cortez, lime, cucumber, agave and celery (Image 1). Or, if Mezcal isn’t your speed, perhaps the LT Spritzer with your choice of gin or vodka, lemon and Giffard Creme de Violette will be the perfectly refreshing drink you need to get your night started right. Several local breweries, such as Hackensack Brewing, Defiant and Ghost Hawk, make their mark on this well-crafted beverage list.

Open for lunch, brunch, happy hour and dinner, LT Bar & Grill’s menu looks to capture every audience’s attention. The unique menu is an ultra-modern take on traditional American cuisine, featuring novel salads, highest quality of meats prepared to perfection, the freshest seafood and indulgent sides. An innovative sushi menu (Image 2), which is prepared behind the bar for all to see, rounds out a menu that has something for everyone.

Of course, before you’re even thinking about what to order, a LT signature pop-over comes out hot from the kitchen. But then, it’s time for the appetizers. For starters, you can’t go wrong with the spicy rock shrimp sushi or grilled octopus (Image 3). The grilled globe artichoke, a notable Laurent Tourondel dish, is certainly a must try.

Then, there’s the main course. From their grill, LT has several mouthwatering entree options including the charred beef short rib, the organic brick chicken “diablo” and three Wagyu options: skirt, filet and rib eye. Pair these cuts with six different LT signature sauces, such as smoked ranch or jalapeño chimichurri.

If something from the ocean is more up your alley, you can’t go wrong with the grilled king prawns or Asian BBQ black cod. Sides ranging from the truffled stand up mac and cheese, green spinach fondue and spaghetti squash offer a great mix of indulgence or wonderfully prepared vegetables.

Then, there’s everyone’s favorite: dessert. Whether it’s an occasion worth celebrating with the celebration ice cream cake or you’re not looking to share your banana foster cream pie or salted caramel popcorn sundae (Image 4), these deliciously decadent wonders are everything you need to cap off your evening. ■

American (Contemporary & Traditional)

The Abbey

Ramsey Golf and Country Club 105 Lakeside Dr., Ramsey, 201-818-9298

Allendale Bar & Grill

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

Allendale Eats

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

Alt Eats Cafe

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

Bacari Grill

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

Bareburger

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

The Barn

359 Sicomac Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-0108

� Restaurant Guide �

The Barrow House 1296 Van Houten Ave., Clifton, 862-336-7070

The Bicycle Club 487 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-894-0880

Biddy O’Malley’s Irish Bistro and Bar

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

Big Papa Smokem 352 Palisades Ave., Bogota, 201-742-5704

Bonefish Grill

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

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

Brady’s at the Station 5 W. Main St., Ramsey, 201-327-9748

BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse 21 Teterboro Landing Dr., Teterboro, 551-313-7450

The Brick House 179 Godwin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-1211

Café 37 (BYOB)

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

Café Amici Wyckoff (BYOB) 315 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-0198

Café Amici Ho-Ho-Kus (BYOB) 4 Sycamore Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-389-6377

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

Café Matisse (BYOB) 167 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-935-2995

City Perch Kitchen and Bar 2023 Hudson St., Fort Lee, 201-582-7101

Chakra

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

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

Coach House Restaurant 55 NJ-4, Hackensack, 201-488-4999

Coffee & Cornbread Co. 1350B Queen Anne Rd., Teaneck, 201-862-0600

The Cornerstone 84 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-666-8688

Crow’s Nest 309 Vincent Ave., Hackensack, 201-342-5445

Cubby’s BBQ Restaurant 249 S. River St. Hackensack, 201-488-9389

Davey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant

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

East Coast Burger Company 75 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-857-0277

Emerson Hotel Restaurant 31 Emerson Plaza, Emerson, 201-262-7557

Esposito’s Park Café

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

Esty Street

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

Farmhouse Café & Eatery 15 E. Madison Ave., Cresskill, 201-266-8931

301 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-664-8424

Fire and Oak

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

Giovanni’s Deli 22-08 Morlot Ave., Fair Lawn, 201-791-1911

Glenn Rock Inn

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

Gross’s La Strada 231 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-670-9233

Haven Riverfront Restaurant & Bar 2 Main St., Edgewater, 201-943-1900

Hearth and Tap

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

Ho-Ho-Kus Inn and Tavern

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

Houston’s

� Restaurant Guide �

The Kosher Nosh Deli 894 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-1186

Lakeside Grille & Bar

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

201-518-2883

Noah’s Ark (Kosher) 493 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201-692-1200

Now, the Café is set for its biggest evolution yet Star ting Jan 21, the Saddle River Café will be open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, as well as (BYOB) brunch on Saturdays and Sundays

Mahwah Bar & Grill

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

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

Hungry Peddler

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

Iron Horse

Oceanos

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

If by some strange chance there was nothing on the menu that strikes your fancy, there are daily specials for both lunch and dinner – and they always include some sor t of unique beverage special, such as the Immune Shot, perfect for keeping those wear y winter germs at bay in a refreshing shot.

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

Mitchell’s Seafood Market 541 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-840-9311

MK Valencia

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

Ivy Inn

268 Terrace Ave., Hasbrouck Heights, 201-393-7699

Then, there’s the burrata. Ever yday, the Café offers a new twist on this trendy cheese . Though you ’ re used to seeing it with prosciutto and red pepper, Knott, Means and their team add their twist to elevate it using seasonal ingredients and the creativity they’ve become known for.

Jackson Hole 362 Grande Ave., Englewood, 201-871-7444

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

Mob Burger

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

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

We could write more about it, but the Saddle River Café’s food does the talking.

Just Janice (BYOB) 23 Sheridan Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-445-2666

Nellie’s Place 9 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, 201-652-8626

Nikki’s Bar & Grill

213 Washington Ave., Little Ferry,

Palmer’s Crossing

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

Park Wood Delicatessen

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

Pearl Restaurant (BYOB) 17 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-857-5100

Peppercorns

176 Colony Ave., Park Ridge, 201-391-2818

Pizzaiolo By Brothers 85 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-444-4944

P.J. Finnegan’s 274 Fairview Ave., Westwood, 201-664-7576

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

Railroad Café

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

Raymond’s

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

Reilly’s Rib Cage (BYOB) 49 W. Church St., Bergenfield, 201-771-7200

Regina’s Steakhouse and Grill 827 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-862-1996

Restaurant L

9 Franklin Turnpike, Allendale, 201-785-1112

Rolling Pin Café 341 Broadway, Westwood, 201-666-4660

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

Rosario’s Trattoria (BYOB) 29 Central Ave., Midland Park, 201-445-3335

Rotunda Garden State Plaza (Rtes. 17 & 4), Paramus, 201-843-7693

Ruby Tuesday Route 4 & 17, Paramus,

201-909-0886

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

Sal’s Good Eats 80 Green St., Teterboro, 201-288-1170

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

Shelly’s Vegetarian Café and Caterers 482 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201-692-0001

Steel Wheel Tavern 51 N. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-882-1800

St. Eve’s Restaurant (BYOB) 611 N. Maple Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-857-4717

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

Tommy Fox’s Public House 32 S. Washington Ave., Bergenfield, 201-384-0900

Twisted Elm 435 River Dr., Elmwood Park, 201-791-3705

Veggie Heaven 473 Cedar Ln., Teaneck, 201-836-0887

Victoria’s

336 Queen Anne Rd., Teaneck, 201-801-0888

Village Green (BYOB)

36 Prospect St., Ridgewood, 201-445-2914

Waterside

7800 B. River Rd., North Bergen, 201-861-7767

White Maple Café (BYOB)

47 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-447-1953

103 Prime

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

Asian/Asian Fusion

I Fish (BYOB)

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

Wok Bar

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

Chinese/Korean/ Korean BBQ

Dong Chun Hong

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

Golden Dynasty

825 Franklin Lakes Rd., Franklin Lakes, 201-891-7866

� Restaurant Guide �

T.S. Ma Wyckoff

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

Continental Cuisine

Al Di La

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

295 Kinderkamack Rd., Hillsdale, 201-358-8685

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

Kimchi Smoke BBQ

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

Mr. Wok & Sushi (BYOB) 1 Highwood Ave. 2nd Floor, Tenafly, 201-569-3969

Myung Ga Won

72 Piermont Road, Tenafly, 201-500-1111

Petite Soo Chow

607 Gorge Road, Cliffside Park, 201-313-1666

P.F. Chang’s The Shops at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-646-1565

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

Rudy’s

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

Continental/American

W’s Grill

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

Continental/French

Café Panache (BYOB)

130 E. Main St. (Lake St.), Ramsey, 201-934-0030

Latour (BYOB)

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

Le Jardin

1257 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-224-9898

Madeleine’s Petite Paris 416 Tappan Rd., Northvale, 201-767-0063

Saddle River Inn (BYOB) 2 Barnstable Ct., Saddle River, 201-825-4016

Continental/Italian

Andrea’s Ristorante Italiano (BYOB)

20 E. Prospect St., Waldwick, 201-670-0275, 201-670-7958

Davia

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

Sage (BYOB)

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

Savini

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

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

Cuban Azúcar Cuban Cuisine 171 Schraalenburgh Rd., Closter, 201-660-7977

Casual Habana Cafe (BYOB) 125 Main St., Hackensack, 201-880-9844

Mambo Tea House (BYOB) 98 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-933-1262

Mis Raices 1214 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-530-7233

Rebecca’s Restaurant (BYOB) 236 Old River Rd., Edgewater, 201-943-8808

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

Dominican Punta Cana 2151 Lemoine Ave., Fort Lee, 201-849-5556

Eclectic

Contemporary

Bibi’z Restaurant and Lounge 284 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-722-8600

Baumgart’s Café (BYOB)

59 The Promenade, Edgewater, 201-313-3889

45 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-569-6267

158 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood,

201-612-5688

Café Matisse (BYOB) 167 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-935-2995

G.W. Grill

2139 Hudson Terrace, Fort Lee, 201-947-2440

Port of Call (POC) (BYOB)

450 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, 201-488-0888

The Rail Yard Tavern 14-26 Plaza Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-773-3372

Sofia

36 Engle St., Englewood, 201-541-8530

200 Tice

200 Tice Blvd., Woodcliff Lake, (Inside The Woodcliff Lake Hilton) 201-391-3600

201 Supper Club

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

Fondue

The Melting Pot

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

� Restaurant Guide �

201-750-8570

French

The Chef’s Table (BYOB)

754 Franklin Ave., Franklin Lakes, 201-891-6644

Latour (BYOB)

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

Greek

A Taste of Greece (BYOB) 935 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-967-0029

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

Daily Treat

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

Eons

17 NJ-17, Paramus, 212-696-1234

Greek Corner Grill (BYOB) 99 Park Ave., Park Ridge, 201-476-1400

GRK Grill (BYOB)

39 Union Ave., Cresskill, 201-399-7670

The Greek Village 254 Livingston St., Northvale,

It’s Greek to Me

352 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-945-5447

36 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-568-0440

1611 Palisade Ave., Fort Lee, 201-947-2050

21 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-612-2600

487 Broadway, Westwood, 201-722-3511

2020 Central Road, Fort Lee, 201-947-2055

Taverna Mykonos

238 Broadway, Elmwood Park, 201-703-9200

Varka

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

Indian

Art of Spice (BYOB)

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

BHOJ (BYOB)

430 Market St., Elmwood Park, 201-797-6800

Kailash (BYOB) 22 Oak St., Ridgewood, 201-251-9693

Mantra

275 NJ-4, Paramus, 201-342-8868

Mausam (BYOB)

76 Market St., Clifton, 973-472-3663

Nirvana Indian Kitchen (BYOB) 29 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale, 201-818-2300

Spice Mantra (BYOB)

6 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-568-1122

Silli Point (BYOB) 498 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-941-0271

Taste of India (BYOB)

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

Irish

Biddy O’Malley’s Irish Bistro and Bar 36 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, 201-608-5545

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

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

Italian

Aldo & Gianni Ristorante 108 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-391-6866

Aldo’s (BYOB) 640 Wyckoff Ave., Wyckoff, 201-891-2618

A Mano

24 Franklin Ave. (at Chestnut St.), Ridgewood, 201-493-2000

Amarone

63 Cedar Ln., Teaneck, 201-833-1897

Andiamo

23 Hardenburgh Ave., Haworth, 201-384-1551

Angelo’s Restaurant

263 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst, 201-939-1922

Arturo’s

41 Central Ave., Midland Park, 201-444-2466

Baci Italian Grill 36 Jefferson Ave., Westwood, 201-722-1900

Jewish Community

WHAT IS BERGEN JEWISH CHAPEL AND WHY IS IT UNIQUE?

The Bergen Jewish Chapel Concept is an online funeral arrangement process with the goal of alleviating a family's

Our process helps families to:

• Gather vital information you need before you need it.

• Benefit from our full disclosure of services, merchandise, and pricing

• Eliminate the burden of a face to face meeting at a funeral home location, while still benefiting from our personal attention to our families

• Maintain Traditions

Owner/Manager Daniel W. Leber NJ Lic. No 3186

� Restaurant Guide �

Viva Margarita

364 Lawton Ave ,Cliffside Park 551-313-0760

SPANISH

Barcelona’s 38 Harrison Ave., Garfield, 973-778-4930

El Cid

Bazzarelli 117 Moonachie Rd., Moonachie, 201-641-4010

205 Paramus Rd , Paramus 201-843-0123

Bellissimo (BYOB) 12 S. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-746-6669

Meson Madrid Restaurant 343 Bergen Blvd., Palisades Park 201-947-1038

Bensi

459 Rt. 17S, Hasbrouck Heights, 201-727-9525

Sangria 1033 MacArthur Blvd., Mahwah 201-962-3310

183 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, 201-297-7444

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

Dino’s 12 Tappan Rd., Harrington Park, 201-767-4245

Sayola

Bistro 107 107 Moonachie Rd., Moonachie, 201-440-3339

50 Prospect Ter , Tenafly 201-871-2182

Bottagra Restaurant 80 Wagaraw Rd., Hawthorne, 973-423-4433

Tapas De España 7909 Bergenline Ave., North Bergen 201-453-1690

Buon Gusto (BYOB) 534 Durie Ave., Closter, 201-784-9036

Buongiorno’s (BYOB) 86 Washington Ave., Dumont, 201-501-8000

Taste of Spain 493 Tappan Rd , Northvale 201-767-8904

THAI

Café Amici (BYOB) 4 Sycamore Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-389-6377

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

Bangkok Garden 261 Main St , Hackensack 201-487-2620

Caffe Capri (BYOB) 119 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201-460-1039

Clifton Thai 239 Parker Ave , Clifton 973-253-1400

Café Italiano Ristorante 14 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-461-5041

Chok Dee Thai Kitchen 561 Livingston St., Norwood 201-750-8880

Café L’Amore (BYOB) 455 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, 201-337-5558

Gao Thai Kitchen (BYOB) 63 Main St., Ramsey 201-962-2691

Café Tivoli 533 Shaler Blvd., Ridgefield, 201-941-5561

Malee Fine Thai Cuisine (BYOB) 2 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood 201-612-7797

Cassie’s

18 S. Dean St., Englewood, 201-541-6760

Cenzino Ristorante 589 Ramapo Valley Rd., Oakland, 201-337-6693

Massaman Thai Cuisine 312 Hackensack St , Carlstadt 201-559-1424

Cliff’s Steakhouse 18 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-944-0233

Pimaan Thai Restaurant (BYOB) 79 Kinderkamack Rd , Emerson 201-967-0440

Dimora 100 Piermont Rd., Norwood, 201-750-5000

Due (BYOB) 16-18 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-857-3231

Thai West (BYOB) 22 Jefferson Ave , Westwood 201-497-6981

Fiona’s Restaurant (BYOB) 118 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-857-5800

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

Fontana Di Trevi (BYOB) 248 Fort Lee Road, Leonia, 201-242-9040

PERSIAN

Fratelli’s Coal-Burning Pizza 206 Route 46, Elmwood Park, 201-797-7552

Kabab on the Cliff 23 Godwin Ave , Ridgewood 201-444-5100

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

Rose (BYOB) 1150 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck 201-569-3600

Giovanna’s Café 19 E. Main St., Ramsey, 201-825-5835

TURKISH

GoodFellas Ristorante

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

Granita Grille 467 Broadway, Westwood, 201-664-9846

Cinar 214 Kinderkamack Rd , Emerson, 201-523-9284

Grissini Restaurant 484 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-568-3535

Guilio’s

Hakki Babba (BYOB) 555 Anderson Ave , Cliffside Park 201-840-8444

154 Washington St., Tappan, NY, 845-359-3657

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

Hunkar (BYOB) 319 Hackensack St , Carlstadt 201-507-0606

Il Mulino Ristorante (BYOB) 132 Veterans Plaza, Dumont, 201-384-7767

Istanblue Restaurant (BYOB) 645 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge 201-262-4400

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

In Napoli

116 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-947-2500

Istanbul Café & Grill (BYOB) 14-25 Plaza Rd , Fair Lawn 201-791-2222

Kinchley’s Tavern 586 N. Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, 201-934-7777

Kebab Istanbul 5819 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Bergen 201-861-4400

L’Angolo Trattoria Italiana (BYOB) 696 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-941-0853

Marmaris Cafe (BYOB) 820 River Rd , Edgewater 201-943-9090

La Cambusa 517 River Drive, Garfield, 973-445-7222

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

La Lanterna (BYOB) 29 W. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-444-5520

Turkish Kitchen

297 Palisade Ave , Cliffside Park

� Restaurant Guide �

La Vecchia Napoli

2 Hillard Ave., Edgewater, 201-941-6799

Locale Café

208 Piermont Rd., Closter, 201-750-3233

Luka’s (BYOB)

10 River Road, Bogota, 201-440-2996

Lu Nello

182 Stevens Ave., Cedar Grove, 973-837-1660

Maggiano’s Little Italy

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

Martini Grill

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

Nanni Ristorante

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

Nonna’s Cucina (BYOB)

918 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-2758

Olivella’s

7709 Bergenline Ave., North Bergen, 201-662-6110

Osso Buco

343 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-664-1600

Picco Tavern

160 Prospect Ave., Hackensack, 201-880-8750

Portobello

175 Ramapo Valley Rd. (Rt. 202), Oakland, 201-337-8990

Puzo’s Family Restaurant

4 Garfield Ave., Hawthorne, 973-423-2288

Rocca (BYOB)

203 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, 201-670-4945

Roxanne’s

150 Franklin Turnpike, Mahwah, 201-529-0007

Rugova Restaurant & Bar

259 Johnson Ave., River Edge, 201-880-8488

Sanducci’s Trattoria (BYOB) 620 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-599-0600

Sanzari’s New Bridge Inn

105 Old New Bridge Rd., New Milford, 201-692-7700

Sergio’s Missione (BYOB)

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

Sicilian Sun (BYOB)

604 N. Maple Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-444-3494

Solari’s

61 S. River St., Hackensack, 201-487-1969

Sorrento (BYOB)

132 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201-507-0093

Trattoria Giotto (BYOB) 15 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-528-7142

Trovato’s Due

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

Vicolo Ristorante

216 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, 201-497-8777

Woodstone Pizza Bar & Grill

352 W. Passaic St., Rochelle Park, 201-845-7600

Zozo’s Restaurant

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

Japanese

Akai Lounge 11 N. Dean St., Englewood, 201-541-0086

Asahi (BYOB) 1475 Bergen Blvd., Fort Lee, 201-944-5113

Blu Sushi (BYOB) 26 Wilsey Square, Ridgewood, 201-882-1700

Cocoro

856 Franklin Ave., Franklin Lakes, 201-560-1333

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

Fuki Sushi (BYOB)

828 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-225-0160

Gen Sushi & Hibachi 14B Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-930-9188

Hanami (BYOB) 41 Union Ave., Cresskill, 201-567-8508

301 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-666-8508

Hiro

254 Degraw Ave., Teaneck, 201-692-1002

Hiura

400 Main St. Ste. B, Fort Lee, 201-346-0110

Kazuki (BYOB)

638 Westwood Ave., River Vale, 201-263-1811

Kiku

5-9 Rt. 9W (Palisades Pkwy.), Alpine, 201-767-6322

365 Rt. 17S, Paramus, 201-265-7200

Kumo (BYOB)

55 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-652-0088

Kyoto (BYOB)

78 Washington Ave., Dumont, 201-384-5544

Masa Sushi & Grill (BYOB)

81 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale, 201-934-6616

Matsu Sushi & Grill

140 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-722-9388

Matsuya

490 Market St., Saddle Brook, 201-843-5811

Mei Sushi

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

� Restaurant Guide �

Minado 1 Valley Rd., Little Ferry, 201-931-1522

Mount Fuji

Japanese Steak House 193 NJ-17, Hasbrouck Heights, 201-288-2800

Nizi Sushi (BYOB)

300 Union Ave., Rutherford, 201-804-7666

Sarku Japan

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

Sakura-Bana (BYOB) 43 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-447-6525

Sendai Japanese Restaurant & Grill

178 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-225-0995

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

Sushi Village (BYOB)

700-90 Broadway, Westwood, 201-666-8800

Sushi X (BYOB)

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

Umeya

156 Piermont Rd., Cresskill, 201-816-0511

Tawara Japanese Restaurant (BYOB)

53 W. Main St., Ramsey, 201-825-8712

Wasabi

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

Yuki

2 S. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-391-9877

Yuki Hana (BYOB)

131 Kinderkamack Rd., Park Ridge, 201-391-3230

Latin

Mambo Empanadas (BYOB)

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

Mediterranean

The Kebabci (BYOB)

259 Valley Blvd., Wood-Ridge, 201-728-4949

Mado (BYOB)

570 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-265-3629

Mediterraneo (BYOB)

23 N. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-447-0022

Mezza (BYOB)

20 Jefferson Ave., Westwood, 201-722-8822

Novo (BYOB)

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

Mexican

A Taco Affair

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

Azteca (BYOB)

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

Jalepenos

930 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-5566

La Frontera (BYOB)

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

Leon

16 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-857-0297

Mariachi Grill (BYOB)

262 Ridge Rd., Lyndhurst, 201-528-7493

Riviera Maya (BYOB)

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

Viva Margarita

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

Spanish

El Cid

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

Meson Madrid Restaurant

343 Bergen Blvd., Palisades Park, 201-947-1038

Sangria 1033 MacArthur Blvd., Mahwah, 201-962-3310

Sayola

50 Prospect Ter., Tenafly, 201-871-2182

Tapas De España 7909 Bergenline Ave., North Bergen, 201-453-1690

� Restaurant Guide �

from and one orchid you have to keep extremely cold while another needs to be warm. It’s weird because orchids are found on every continent but Antarctica. They grow all over and come back every year – the same plant comes back every year ”

Taste of Spain

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

Thai

Bangkok Garden

Istanblue Restaurant (BYOB)

What the society hopes to do is to continue to encourage people to fully understand this diverse flower and bring people with like interests together.

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

Clifton Thai

239 Parker Ave., Clifton, 973-253-1400

Chok Dee Thai Kitchen

561 Livingston St., Norwood, 201-750-8880

Gao Thai Kitchen (BYOB)

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

Malee Fine Thai Cuisine (BYOB)

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

Istanbul Café & Grill (BYOB) 14-25 Plaza Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-791-2222

“It’s like any other thing, people get together and play games or smoke cigars or watch baseball or have dinner It’s getting together with people and interacting with them There’s something about that I guess feeds friendships There are a lot of people out there, and they just want to get out and meet new people and have involvement other than their kitchen or their job, and this is different,” Kostetsky said. “Don’t throw that orchid out.We’ll show you how to re-bloom it again and again and again ”

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

Massaman Thai Cuisine

312 Hackensack St., Carlstadt, 201-559-1424

Pimaan Thai Restaurant (BYOB)

Kebab Istanbul 5819 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Bergen, 201-861-4400

Marmaris Cafe (BYOB) 820 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-943-9090

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

Turkish Kitchen

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

WHAT IS BERGEN JEWISH CHAPEL AND WHY IS IT UNIQUE?

The Bergen Jewish Chapel Concept is an online funeral arrangement process with the goal of alleviating a family's stress and burden while dealing with end of life issues.

Our process helps families to:

• Gather vital information you need before you need it

• Benefit from our full disclosure of services, merchandise, and pricing

• Eliminate the burden of a face to face meeting at a funeral home location, while still benefiting from our personal attention to our families

• Maintain Traditions

79 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-967-0440

The first meeting is free, said Kostetsky, and membership costs $25 a year for a single person and $35 for family membership The next meeting will be held the third Thursday of January and more information can be found at https://www.ramapoorchid.org.

Ridge Thai (BYOB)

50 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-493-9929

Thai West (BYOB)

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

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

Persian Kabab on the Cliff 23 Godwin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-444-5100

Pardis Persian Grill (BYOB)

47 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-652-8000

Rose (BYOB) 1150 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-569-3600

Turkish Cinar

214 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-523-9284

Hakki Babba (BYOB)

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

Hunkar (BYOB) 319 Hackensack St., Carlstadt, 201-507-0606

Turkuaz (BYOB) 1550 Lemoine Ave., Fort Lee, 201-944-1115

Vietnamese

Bistro Du Saigon 168 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-592-0100

Ma Mí Eatery 546 Durie Ave., Closter, 201-660-7826

Mekong Grill (BYOB) 24 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-445-0011

Pho Miu Vietnamese Restaurant 255 Pascack Rd., Township of Washington, 201-497-3915

Saigon Kitchen (BYOB) 2024 Center Ave., Fort Lee, 201-592-8890

Simply Vietnamese (BYOB) 1 Highwood Ave, Tenafly, 201-568-7770

TC’s Little Taste of Saigon (BYOB) 419 Goffle Rd., Ridgewood, 201-445-5509

789 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, NJ 07666 (201) 836-0202

268 Kinderkamack Road Oradell, NJ 07649

Owner/Manager Daniel W. Leber NJ Lic. No 3186

L� Last Laugh�

The Grass Isn’t Always Greener

By Brandon Goldstein

ike most people, when the pandemic really began (for us, at least) in March, I viewed it as a weird yet nice little spring break. We will stay home together, relax, enjoy the company of our families and, once the weather breaks, the virus will be long gone and it’ll be a very short, yet memorable, story in our lives – one we could tell our grandkids and laugh about.

Unfortunately, like most of 2020 and the first weeks of 2021, that didn’t exactly go according to plan. While it’ll certainly be a story all of us will tell our grandchildren, it has left a lasting mark on our lives that make silver linings quite hard to find. Well, I’m here to find some.

Many of the people I talk to, via Zoom, of course, have lamented about how our lives have changed. We talk about the things we can do, and the things we can’t. We talk about what we miss and who has been out and about doing what, etc. While I’m not here for the gossip, I’ve noticed one aspect of our conversations certainly has changed.

For months, we talked about the “pre-COVID” days, and how when life got back to normal, our routines would mimic those we had before we ever heard the term “coronavirus” or “stay-at-home orders.”

But after physically not being able to do those things for so long, many of us have had plenty of time to reflect on the lives we used to lead, and have noted the excesses and indulgences in life that became a part of who we were – whether we really wanted them to or not.

Looking back, I was on autopilot. I didn’t feel like I

was commanding my own ship any longer. Sure, I was on this path of living that felt like it had a specific purpose, but it was devoid of the true values and virtues I felt a life well-lived needed. A friend of mine compared it to being a hamster on a wheel – never stopping, but never really getting anywhere either.

These many months of low-key life have allowed for deeper inflection about what life is supposed to be. As much as I cannot wait for COVID to no longer be a word used in our daily dealings, there are certainly many aspects of my pre-pandemic life that will be very different than my days stuck on that hamster wheel. For that, I’m forever thankful.

For many of us, the past year was a great opportunity to actually fulfill the resolutions we so boldly claim on Jan. 1 and quickly forget by the 2nd. This year though, that chance to lose weight, be a better person or cook more and order out less was certainly there for the taking. Even if you wanted to remain on that hamster wheel, the world made it impossible not to stop. Did you take the opportunity to change yourself?

It’s easy to say the world turned ugly this past year. It has. It’s filled with more hate, more division and more disagreement than ever. We are at a fork in the road. You can remain part of the problem or open your eyes and realize that being a part of the solution will make you just as happy at the expense of no-one else. We may never return to the “old normal” and the “new normal” is cliche and non-sustaining. Carve your own path. Restart your life. Simplify it and cut out the bullshit. 2020 was the year for self-reflection. Now’s the time for self-improvement. ■