Bergen August 2026

Bergen

9TH ANNUAL HIGH SCHOOL FORUM

5 FASHION TRENDS THAT MAKE THE GRADE TIPS TO CREATE A ROUTINE THAT WORKS

+ SPECIAL REPORT HOW IS YOUR CHILD’S MENTAL HEALTH?

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Features

Make Your Child’s Day 22

“Back to school” is coming, and it isn’t optional. Happily, you can help your youngster develop a routine that works.

Teens Tell All 24

What’s it like to be a high schooler today? AI couldn’t tell us, so we asked 11 rising seniors from around the county instead. Here’s what they said.

The Kids Aren’t Alright 32

There’s a growing mental health crisis among students today—in Bergen County and across the land.

Make The Grade 36

Whether your style leans classic or rebellious, you’ll earn top marks by knowing the season’s standout trends.

“I didn’t know what was wrong...

I just knew I wasn’t feeling like myself.”

When something doesn’t feel right, it’s not always clear what you need. You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Across every level, from counseling to structured outpatient programs to inpatient care, you’re supported every step of the way so you can feel like yourself again.

The hands that hold you matter.

Call us at (201) 903-9564 or email BHAdmissions@ChristianHealthNJ.org to find the care that is right for you.

Departments

Bergen Buzz 11

Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the county.

Style Watch 18

Stand out and make a statement in patterns that are fun, flirty and perfect for the end of summer.

Home Front 19

These containers are as beautiful as the blooms they hold.

Friends & Neighbors 20

Escapes 40

Pack light, stay close and rediscover New Jersey’s best oceanside getaways before the season slips away.

Tastes 42

Who says sandwiches have to be ordinary? These handfuls are ideal for a quick lunch, light dinner or an hearty spread.

Bar Tab 46

Gatherings

42 ON THE COVER

Longtime Bergenite Ken Freirich has several passions. What they have in common: making the world a better place.

70

Bergen residents always show up to support one another.

A Bergen Moment 72

A photographer captures a lone swan swimming peacefully in a Franklin Lakes pond.

Beat the heat with this cocktail, a citrusy sip made for warmweather evenings.

Restaurant Review 62

Churod Thai Kitchen brings warm hospitality and vibrant flavors to Bogota.

Eleven Bergen rising seniors participate in our annual student forum.

Photo by Carolyn Herring.

Teens Have A Lot To Say

Don’t tell anyone, but it’s something I’d enjoy doing even if there were no magazine to put it in. I refer to BERGEN’s High School Forum, page 24. As is our annual custom, we gathered 11 high school soon-to-be-seniors from around the county so that I could ask them about their lives and what’s on their minds. Teenagers famously answer adults only in monosyllables, but I got much luckier. Our teens—admittedly, high-achieving students rather than a statistical sample—were quite candid and forthcoming. If they struck one dominant note, it wasn’t fear of AI’s encroachments or skyrocketing college tuitions (though those challenges did come up). It was hope for the future.

How heartwarming to hear that they see a bright path ahead. Of course, things weren’t all rosy. One girl confided that she’d had to “step away” from a group of peers this past year when they turned jealous. It hurt, she says, seeing this change in “people you thought were your closest friends.” She navigated that adjustment well, but what about kids who have trouble dealing with such social woes—or problems at home, or their own self-image? This issue’s Special Report (page 32) explores student mental health. And the experts notice—despite our relatively well-adjusted group of Forum participants—that there’s a lot of anxiety out there, more than in past eras. That makes it more important than ever for young people to know that, in school and beyond, there’s help if you seek it.

Any lingering stigma about consulting a mental health professional? Let’s toss that in the schoolyard dumpster as the new school year begins. In fact, BERGEN itself consults a child psychiatrist—on page 22. Our questions in this instance aren’t about deep psychology, but about habits. Kids’ happiness and success can depend on having a daily routine that works, and we get knowledgeable advice on how you can help your child establish one.

Finally, the “back-to-school” moment helps define a fashion season, even if your own literal school days are in the rearview mirror. So check out our article on this year’s BTS style themes on page 36.

What’s that you say? That for all this preparatory talk of a new school year, we still have an August in which to take trips, loll on the beach or relax in a hammock at dusk watching for lightning bugs? Don’t worry; we’ve got that covered too. We offer four fine ways to enjoy summer’s waning days (page 11). Three great Jersey Shore towns to explore (page 40). And a new Bogota restaurant (page 62) that may come to outrank your current fave. (Or maybe it’ll be a Thai.)

I’ll leave you with two “S” words, one for August and one for the coming school year. One is sunscreen—never forget! The other is sleep—our high schoolers unanimously report that they don’t get enough, yet sufficient sleep is vital to optimal health. And the whirl of all these kids’ activities—oy! It made me tired just to hear about it.

Enjoy this issue—and these days!

Rita Guarna Editor in Chief rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com

Bergen

Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA

Creative Director

STEPHEN M. VITARBO

Senior Associate Editor

DARIUS AMOS

Assistant Editor

KIRSTEN MEEHAN

Contributing Editors

LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF

PAUL RANCE JR.

Contributing Photographer

CAROLYN HERRING

PRODUCTION

Production Artist CHRIS FERRANTE

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FARM FRESH FAVORITES

Nothing says summer quite like a trip to the farmers’ market. Across Bergen County, many seasonal markets are in full swing, offering shoppers a chance to stock up on Jersey Fresh fruits and vegetables. Here are seven to check out:

• Cresskill: Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the public library; farm fresh produce, pickles, nuts, dried fruit

• Franklin Lakes: Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Veterans Plaza; fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, beverages, wellness and beauty, spices and sauces

• Lyndhurst: Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Town Hall Park; farm fresh produce, local growers and vendors

• Ramsey: Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Main Street Train Station; local fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, pasta, fresh meat and fish, spices

• Ridgewood: Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ridgewood train station; local produce, homemade mozzarella, honey, pickles, baked goods

• Rutherford: Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lincoln Park; local farmers, honey, pickles, spices, sauces, candles

• Teaneck: Thursdays from noon to 6 p.m. at Cedar Lane municipal lot; fruits, vegetables, baked goods, candles, oils and vinegars, cheese, beverages

To read more about farmers’ markets in Bergen, visit bergenmag.com/markets.

APPLAUSE!

Congratulations to Ridgefield resident and BERGEN reader Crystal Ozsoy, who won two free tickets to the Broadway hit Titanique at the St. James Theatre in New York City. The tickets were the grand prize of our recent Instagram giveaway. Be sure you’re following BERGEN magazine on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news, announcements and upcoming reader contests.

Bergen Buzz

OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTY.

SUMMER’S LAST HURRAH

The “dog days” of August are a reminder that good things don’t last forever, aren’t they? But don’t despair— there’s lots of this season left for you to enjoy, right here in Bergen. Some local options:

• Get all wet. Swimming opportunities range from public municipal swimming pools (many, Paramus’s for example, offer day passes for non-members) to Darlington County Park in Mahwah (600 Darlington Ave., Mahwah, 201.327.3500; mahwahtwp.org), which has two swimming lakes, white sand beaches and a “splash zone”—one of the largest water obstacle courses on the East Coast. If rain or heat sends you indoors, the fun needn’t stop. Head over to American Dream (1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, 833.263.7326; americandream.com), where you’ll find the DreamWorks indoor water park with slides and wave pools.

• Visit the fair. Nothing says summer quite like a carnival, festival or fair. Check out the Hermitage Museum’s Art and Craft Fair Aug. 8 in Ho-Ho-Kus, or Westwood’s Craft and Antique Fair Aug. 23 in Veterans Memorial Park. Both promise kettle corn and other fair foods, plus vendors and fun. Or end the season at the St. Joseph’s Feast Festival in Lodi over Labor Day Weekend (Sept. 4–7) for rides, games, live music and lots of food.

• Hear tunes. There’s still time to listen to music under the stars! Bergen continues its Music in the Park free concert series this month, so stop by the Overpeck County Park amphitheater in Ridgefield Park Aug. 6 (The Chain, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band) and the Stage at Riverside County Park in North Arlington Aug. 11 (Here’s Elton Tribute, Elton John tribute) and Aug. 18 (Danny V’s 52nd Street Band, Billy Joel tribute). The music starts at 7 p.m.

• Catch a flick. More of a movie person? You can watch those outside too! At Van Saun County Park in Paramus, bring your blankets and lawn chairs and watch a movie in the warm summer air. The show starts at sunset, around 8:30 p.m. See Wicked: For Good (Aug. 12), Elio (Aug. 14), Jurassic World: Rebirth (Aug. 19) and Zootopia 2 (Aug. 21). If you’re craving something indoors, and maybe a bit earlier in the day, check out the screenings at the Barrymore Film Center in Fort Lee (1 Park Ave., Fort Lee, 201.585.0601; barrymorefilmcenter.org) for presentations of classic films, independent flicks and big-budget movies.

CULINARY CORNER

Want to spice things up after a summer of cookouts and barbecues? These newly opened eateries may be just the thing—they specialize in Asian cuisines.

Let’s do dumplings

Already a favorite in Rutherford, Dumpling Dojo has expanded its cult-favorite concept to Hackensack, boasting a menu centered on handcrafted dumplings, ramen and Asian-inspired small plates. Standout dishes include juicy soup dumplings, pork and chive dumplings and fluffy bao filled with options like spicy shrimp and braised pork belly. The casual, modern spot also offers shareable appetizers, making it an easy pick for everything from a quick lunch to a group dinner.

• Dumpling Dojo, 260 S. Summit Ave., Hackensack, 201.546.7026; dumplingdojo.com

Sit for sushi (and more)

Those craving Japanese cuisine in northern Bergen can stop by Shiro Sushi and Roll, which recently opened in Old Tappan. The chefs here specialize in fresh sushi and sashimi, but the kitchen also prepares delicious gyoza, spicy garlic edamame, shrimp and vegetable tempura and salmon carpaccio, along with a selection of hibachi and teriyaki entrées.

• Shiro Sushi and Roll, 200 Old Tappan Rd., Old Tappan, 201.621.0030; shirosushi.peblla.com

Get Thai’d up

If you have a taste for Thailand, the intimate space at Attarote Thai brings authentic flavors to East Rutherford with a menu that balances traditional favorites and modern presentation. Diners can expect standout dishes such as pad thai, rich curries, fragrant basil stir-fries and house-made dumplings, all crafted with fresh ingredients and customizable spice levels.

• Attarote Thai Cuisine, 128 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201.292.1722; attarotethaicuisine.com

REFLECTING

25 YEARS LATER

The events of 9/11 changed the lives of countless Americans, and as we approach the 25th anniversary of the attacks, we’re reminded of both the pain and heroism that many experienced on that day. But stories continued to unfold in the months and years afterward. In his newest book, After Ground Zero , The Record columnist Mike Kelly draws on a quarter century of first-hand reporting to tell the stories of post-9/11 through the eyes of ordinary citizens. Read how first responders, construction workers, loved ones of those killed, soldiers deployed overseas and others searched for answers, policy changes and healing.

After Ground Zero will be available starting Aug. 20 through major and independent retailers, including Bookends in Ridgewood and Books & Greetings in Northvale.

A GREAT NIGHT OUT

You’re invited to sample Bergen’s best! Tickets are on sale now for our annual Bergen Wine & Food Experience, Sept. 24. at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale. Taste cuisine from dozens of restaurants and caterers and sip fine wines, spirits, craft beers and cocktails from area vendors. Plus, there will be live music all night long, giveaways and a commemorative event cup and swag bag. Tickets are on sale now at bergenmag.com. We can’t wait to see you there!

FOR FANTASY FANS

For Robert Skead of Wyckoff, storytelling and adventure go hand in hand. The children’s book author returns this month with Wrath of the Sea Hag , the latest installment in his Legend of the Narwhals Adventure series, a fantasy story inspired by Norse mythology. The new book follows Prince Asgar as he faces a vengeful sea hag, a monstrous Kraken and a series of magical challenges that test his courage and leadership. Says Geoff Habiger, publisher at Kinkajou Press: “It’s a thrilling, fastpaced adventure that captures the spirit of Norse mythology while delivering a very modern message: You don’t need to be a ‘perfect’ warrior to do the right thing.”

Wrath of the Sea Hag will be available starting Sept. 15 through major and independent retailers, including Bookends in Ridgewood and Books & Greetings in Northvale.

PUPPY LOVE

Dogs: Miss Remi Lemon, 6-yearold Bernese Mountain Dog, and Miss Peach Bellini, 4-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog

Owners: Ryan and Nicole Olivieri of River Edge

Think you’d get tongue-tied calling these two inside? Not to worry—according to Nicole, she and Ryan simply call them Missy (Miss Remi Lemon) and Peaches (Miss Peach Bellini). Both were adopted from Bainbridge Berners in Chesterfield, and they’re proof that opposites attract. Missy is huggable, outgoing, playful and social; Peaches, on the other hand, prefers her own family rather than making new friends. Peaches also has one blue eye in addition to the brown—“Not breed-standard, but we love her for her uniqueness!” says Nicole. She also reports that both are “loving family dogs who playful and protective.”

Both pooches love to travel. “They love spending time at our cabin in Schroon Lake, N.Y., in the heart of the Adirondacks,” Nicole, “and we just purchased an RV because we love have them with us when we go on trips, from Florida to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to the mountains of New York.” Mountain dogs, indeed!

Want to see your furry friend in an upcoming issue of BERGEN? Email your pet’s photo and a brief description to Editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

SchoolSCENE

THERE WON’T BE A TEST…

…but you’ll check out these numbers anyway, just for fun, right? They reflect the impressive scale, excellence and heritage of schools in Bergen County:

5,533

Total enrollment in the Fair Lawn Public School District, Bergen’s largest

1,813

Number of students who attend Hackensack High, the most of any county high school

1,458

Average SAT score at Bergen County Academies in Hackensack, the highest of any Bergen public high school

1,322

Number of liberal arts and humanities degrees annually at Bergen Community College, the largest college in the county

1895

The year Woodcliff Middle School in Woodcliff Lake was built, making it the county’s oldest continuously operating school building

147

Number of years Academy of the Holy Angels has been active, making it the oldest private school in Bergen

200+

Number of students who participate in the Ridgewood High School band, considered one of the county’s largest

20

Number of state football championships won by Bergen Catholic High School, the most in the county

$90,000

The estimated average annual salary for a teacher in Bergen County Sources: Data USA, Niche

‘GIVE

BACK’ WITH BACK-TO-SCHOOL SHOPPING

When you’re loading the cart with No. 2 pencils and marble notebooks this month (and don’t forget the fun folders and scented erasers!), consider picking up extra school supplies for someone in need. Check out these local organizations that host school supplies and backpack drives to make sure every child in Bergen has what’s needed to succeed academically. (Check out websites for needed items and drop-off dates.)

• Bergen’s Promise. 3 University Plaza Dr., Suite 300, Hackensack, 201.712.1170; bergenspromise.org

• Bergen County Court-Appointed Special Advocates. 1 Bergen County Plaza, Suite 347, Hackensack, 201.336.7520; bergencasa.org

WE’RE THE CHAMPS

• Boys & Girls Clubs of Lower Bergen County. 50 Brookside Ave. #1, Lodi, 973.473.7410; bgclbergen.org

• Family Promise of Bergen County. 100 Dayton St., Ridgewood, 201.833.8009; bergenfamilypromise.org

Let’s go, team! Bergen County’s public high-school sports teams closed out 2025–26 with several state championship and sectional wins. (In fact, Bergen took home three state baseball titles this past spring.) We had a great time cheering them on, and can’t wait to see what the 2026–27 school year brings. Congrats to:

• Glen Rock High School boys’ tennis team, NJSIAA Group 1 State Championship

• Glen Rock High School girls’ tennis team, Group 1 State Championship and an undefeated season

• Old Tappan High School baseball team, Group 3 State Championship

• Ramapo High School boys’ soccer team, Group 3 State Championship

• Ramsey High School baseball team, Group 2 State Championship

• Ramsey High School girls’ soccer team, undefeated and untied season, Group 2 State Championship

• Ramsey High School softball team, Group 2 State Championship

• Ridgewood High School baseball team, Group 4 State Championship

• Ridgewood High School boys’ lacrosse team, Group 4 State Championship

• Ridgewood High School girls’ lacrosse team, Group 4 State Championship

‘TECH’ OUT THESE SAVINGS

Heading back to school often means stocking up on more than just notebooks and pens. From writing assistants and design software to music streaming and productivity tools, many popular digital services offer student discounts or extended free trials that can help stretch a budget. Before paying full price, check out these student-friendly deals:

• Adobe Creative Cloud Student and Teacher Plan: deep discounts on Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro and Acrobat

• Amazon Prime Student: extended free trial and discounted membership with shipping and entertainment benefits

• Apple Education: discounts on Macs and iPads, often with back-to-school promotions

• Canva for Education: free premium design tools for eligible students and educators

• Grammarly for Education: writing and grammar assistance, with occasional student promotions and institutional access

• JetBrains Student Program: free professional coding tools for students in computer science and related fields

• Microsoft 365 for Schools: free access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Teams for many students through participating schools

• Notion for Education: free upgraded plans with advanced organization and productivity features

• Spotify Premium for Students: reduced-price premium subscription for eligible college students

• YouTube Premium Student Plan: reduced-price ad-free streaming and music access

KUDOS!

• Congratulations to Nathaniel Nadler, a rising senior at Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey, who earned second place in the prestigious Harvard Undergraduate Law Review Essay Contest. His essay, “Free Speech, Not Free Amplification,” was selected from submissions by high school students around the world, and recognized for its outstanding analysis and writing. His essay will be published on the Harvard Law Review website.

• Round of applause for Tenafly’s Spencer Chaisanguanthum, one of the 2026 honorees of the Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award, a prestigious recognition for public service. In 2022, Chaisanguanthum founded Eloquence Academy, the world’s largest youth-led nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing academic debate opportunities and education for students in rural and high-risk areas. He has raised more than $60,000 for the effort and leads 225 volunteers in 39 regional chapters.

• Hooray for Glen Rock High School’s Joyce Ahn, who was named the 2026 Unsung Hero by the New Jersey School Boards Association. The recognition honors students whose compassion, integrity and quiet leadership make a lasting impact on their school communities. A 2026 graduate, Ahn has volunteered with the Special Olympics and a Paterson nonprofit that prepares and serves meals to the homeless and at local vacation bible-school summer camps. She also has participated in a mission trip to the Navajo Nation, where she organized and led camp programs for children, and traveled to Cambodia on a service trip focused on supporting and uplifting local communities.

• And hats off to Bergen Academies’ Sophia Lee, who won first place for her age category in the Science Without Borders Challenge. The competition combines art, ocean science and conservation awareness, and encourages students to create art inspired by marine organisms and their role in sustaining their ecosystems. A rising senior, Lee created a piece titled “Ocean’s Hidden Jewel Box,” a mixed-media work on a custom-shaped wooden canvas, which reimagines microscopic marine organisms as glowing, jewel-like forms.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 6:00 P.M.-9:00 P.M.

Mesh ShirredWaist Midi Skirt Banana Republic, Paramus, 201.843.1180

Fine Print

Hoxton Wide Leg Pant saintand sofia.com

Stand out and make a statement in patterns that are fun, flirty and perfect for the end of summer.

Johnny Was Pintuck Tiered Midi Dress Bloomingdale’s, Hackensack, 201.457.2000

Christian Louboutin Cabata Small Tote Bag in Floral-Print Patent Leather Neiman Marcus, Paramus

Prada Printed Canvas Skirt Neiman Marcus, Paramus

Milly Serena Floral Sleeveless Top Neiman Marcus, Paramus, 201.291.1920

Adidas Liberty London Samba OG Shoes Adidas, Paramus, 201.843.4555

Organic Sculptural Multi

Planter For Garden Décor roytimber.com

potsplantersandmore.com

Emissary Home and Garden Loden Handmade Ceramic Planter perigold.com Napa Natural Jayla Bamboo Hanging Basket overstock.com

Spiral Distinctive Organic Planter— Sculptural Fiberglass Statement Pot

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

Randomly Kind

Longtime Bergenite and retired CEO Ken Freirich has several passions. What they have in common: making the world a better place.

For 20-year Northwest Bergen resident Ken Freirich, owning racehorses isn’t about winning—though he surely enjoyed watching his equine Flightline win the 2022 Breeders Cup Classic and finish with an undefeated career. Freirich is a devoted advocate for the care horses receive after their running days run out. In June, for instance, he pledged $10,000 to Thoroughbred Charities of America via Gallop for Good, which contributes to organizations dedicated to thoroughbred aftercare.

But Freirich’s record of giving back goes beyond horses. While building a successful career in healthcare marketing, he’s always kept philanthropic efforts going. And now that he’s retired from corporate life, the 57-year-old is using his other passion—music—to continue his good works.

When did your interest in music start?

I started my first rock band—and writing songs—when I was 8 years old. I played the drums and had a blast rockin’ out to The Who and the Stones. Fondest musical memories?

I played drums with The Who as part of a charity benefit in 2019. The lineup also included Kenny Loggins, Pink and the Foo Fighters. I closed the show playing “Pinball Wizard” and received the only standing ovation of the night. How did you maintain your passion for music while running a company?

It was difficult, but I found time. Every January I would head to an island in the Caribbean or Mexico to write music. Also, 10 years ago, I helped start a New Jersey rock band called MedROCK. We would play three to five times a year.

And you started another group and record label. During COVID, I felt a calling to write and produce a song that could bring people together, and I created “Healthcare Workers Rock!” I wanted to give healthcare workers the recognition they deserved as they worked long days and nights. I decided to call the music group Random Acts of Kindness. I then started a label called Better World Records to

distribute the music with the goal of bringing people together and making the world a better place through meaningful lyrics, music and philanthropy. Why do you think your 2025 song “I Wish” connected with so many people?

It has simple, but very meaningful and powerful lyrics that everyone can relate to, with catchy melodies all packaged into a purpose-driven pop song. “I Wish” lifts people up and provides hope and inspiration at a time when people need it.

What was your reaction when you heard the version performed by African Children’s Choir, which has since gone viral?

It brought me to tears. I will never forget that moment. How has your music helped support or amplify your charitable efforts?

Several months ago, I started something on our music group’s Random Acts of Kindness Instagram page called “I Wish Wednesdays,” where people can nominate their favorite charity, and each week we select one and make a donation to it. It’s been fantastic so far, and we have now impacted charities all over the world. I also

established the Better World Records Foundation for philanthropic partnerships and charitable donations.

How long have you been interested in horse racing?

I’ve been immersed for nearly two decades primarily as an owner through West Point Thoroughbreds.

Though you’ve had champion horses, they say winning isn’t everything. Winning is always a component of ownership, but there are other elements that are near and dear: aftercare for horses, jockey health and providing programs for backstretch employees. I started donating significantly last year, including a leadership gift [to Breeders Cup Charities] of $500,000 over three and a half years. I want to tell everyone there’s a great need, and we really need to do more now and have people plan out multi-year gifts. I really got a firsthand look into the need for the amazing work that they do for the horses in retirement, for the backstretch workers, for research.

What do you enjoy most about Bergen?

I have been retired for 5+ years now, so I have a lot more time on my hands. You really appreciate the proximity to NYC and the amazing natural resources, lakes, hiking and biking trails—and, of course, the restaurants and shopping. Some favorite local spots or activities?

I love going to RP Prime in Mahwah and Fire & Oak and Dairy Queen in Montvale. But one of my all-time favorite things is going to New York Giants games. My family has had season tickets for 75 years; I was honorary captain several years ago and did the coin toss. But going to the games and tailgating is the best.

A life lesson to share?

Life is not a dress rehearsal, so whatever it is you want to do personally and professionally, just do it!

What’s next for you?

I will be launching the Children of Ukraine version of “I Wish,” and then we will be doing a version with both Israeli and Palestinian children. However, the biggest news will come later this summer—a musical collaboration with some really big names on a song that will benefit charity.

—Darius Amos

YOUNG AT HEART

People ages 60 and older are more likely to have a positive perception of aging when they have friends more than 10 years younger than they are.

—European Journal of Ageing

SUCH SWEET NEWS

been linked to health problems such obesity, diabetes and heart disease. added sugar also damages DNA, leading to faster cellular aging. Avoid sweetened cereals, condiments like ketchup, soda and candy, and aim to consume no more than 12 teaspoons sugar, or 48 grams, per day.

—JAMA Network Open

QUICKEN YOUR

Folks is brisk expectancy—86 women men—than slower

—Mayo

1 OF 3

The number of adults ages 50 to 80 who report that they felt a lack of companionship either sometimes or often.

—JAMA

VITAMIN D AND BREAST CANCER SURGERY

A deficiency of vitamin D is associated with more moderate to severe pain following breast cancer surgery, leading to consuming more opioid drugs, according to recent research. Breast cancer patients with low levels of vitamin D (below 30 nmol/L) may benefit from taking supplements before undergoing a radical mastectomy, suggest researchers.

—Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine

FOR KIDS AUTISM?

non-invasive brain stimulation technique—accelerated continuous theta stimulation (acTBS)—has been to improve short-term social skills children with autism.

—The BMJ

—Compiled by

Paul Rance Jr.

EXERCISE WEEKLY FOR BENEFITS

Adults should aim 610 minutes a week vigorous physical activity a substantial reduction heart attacks and stroke, the findings of a recent This is between three times higher than the public health recommendation of at least 150 minutes a week of moderate vigorous physical exercise, such as brisk walking, running or cycling.

—British Journal Sports Medicine

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DAY

“BACK TO SCHOOL” IS COMING, AND IT ISN’T OPTIONAL. HAPPILY, YOU CAN HELP YOUR YOUNGSTER DEVELOP A ROUTINE THAT WORKS.

The poolside afternoons, the late nights and the morning sleep-ins—kids love the freedom of summer vacation, and they’re loath to give it up. But it doesn’t last forever, and the resumption of school means a return to a more structured way of living. How your child adapts to a new daily routine in September helps set the pattern for the whole school year. That’s why BERGEN checked in recently with Zeynep Ozinci, M.D., a board-certified child psychiatrist and the clinical director at Pearl Psychiatry and Therapy Center in Ridgewood.

“Most people think routines organize a child’s day,” says Dr. Ozinci. “In reality, routines organize a child’s nervous system. When school begins, children aren’t simply returning to classes; they’re re-entering a world filled with new teachers, social hierarchies, academic demands and constant sensory input. A predictable routine acts like an external nervous system.”

Suggestions for helping kids develop a day that works? The doctor offers a half-dozen:

Zeynep Ozinci, M.D. Pearl Psychiatry and Therapy Center, Ridgewood

• Start slow. “One of the biggest mistakes families make,” says Dr. Ozinci, “is expecting a child’s brain to switch from summer mode to school mode in a single weekend. We wouldn’t expect someone to go from lying on a couch to running a marathon overnight, yet we ask children to perform the psychological equivalent.” In general, the brain prefers gradual transitions—sudden change feels like uncertainty, and we tend to process that as a threat rather than an inconvenience. Says Dr. Ozinci: “I often recommend a ‘twoweek shift’ as the summer ends. About 14 days before school starts, gradually move wake-up times, bedtimes and meals forward in small increments.”

Another strategic move: “I encourage families to create ‘practice mornings’ before school starts,” she says. “Have children wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast and leave the house at school time at least a few days before classes begin. Familiarity reduces anxiety, and the goal is to make the first day feel familiar before it ever arrives.”

• Be selective. “If a schedule contains 20 precisely timed steps, it is probably designed to fail,” Dr. Ozinci says. Rather than planning out every second of every day, she recommends focusing on keeping three “anchor points” consistent: the morning “launch” period (wakeup times, breakfast and time spent on hygiene such as showering), the post-school decompression period (opt for a healthy snack and some kind of non-screen-based playtime or activity before starting homework) and the evening wind-down. (Here, once again, avoiding screens

is key; reading, audiobooks or listening to calm music are all good options.) Keeping the times of these anchor points consistent will do a lot, says our expert. “Children don’t need every minute planned; they need reliable points they can count on.”

If kids are struggling to stick to these schedules, she advises, “make abstract concepts like time visible. Younger children often do best with photo checklists or visual schedules they can physically complete, while adolescents typically respond better to shared digital calendars and other systems that foster independence. And give children ownership of the process. A schedule imposed feels like a restriction, while schedule co-created feels like a plan. Let them help design breakfast menus, organize outfits for the week or choose after-school routines.”

• Get those Zs. Sleep is vital for everyone, but it’s particularly important for children and teens.

“Sleep is active neurological maintenance,” explains Dr. Ozinci. “During deep sleep, the brain processes emotions, consolidates learning, strengthens memory and clears metabolic waste.” A corollary of that? When a child or teen is sleep-deprived, you can tell. “The amygdala, the brain’s emotional smoke detector, becomes overreactive,” she says. “It causes anxiety, irritability, impulsivity, emotional outbursts and difficulty concentrating.”

Working a “digital sunset” into your family’s schedule can do a lot to keep sleep consistent.

“About an hour before bedtime,” says Dr. Ozinci, “turn off personal devices and charge them outside the bedroom.” Blue light, given off by phone and computer screens, can suppress melatonin production and sends the brain a confusing message that it’s still daytime, which can keep people awake. The doctor continues: “Replace digital stimulation with signals of safety and rest: a warm bath, reading, meditation or guided imagery. The goal is not to make children tired; it’s to help the brain recognize that it is safe enough to power down.”

• Keep everyone moving. Building time into your family’s day for movement and exercise is also vital, according to our expert. “Movement is one of the most powerful health interventions we have,” she says. “It’s medicine for the brain and body. It floods the brain with endorphins and serotonin, our natural mood stabilizers, while actively burning off excess cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) agrees. It recommends that children ages 3 to 5 be active “throughout the day” and ages 6 to 17 be physically active for at least 60 minutes every

day. The CDC suggests incorporating physical activity into your family’s daily routine via family walks or games; Dr. Ozinci echoes that idea. “You don’t need to force kids into highly competitive organized sports,” she says. “A spontaneous dance session in the living room, a bike ride, walking the dog, shooting hoops with friends or hiking with family works beautifully.”

• Know signs of stress. The unfortunate truth is that if your child is struggling, he or she likely won’t simply say so. “Stress rarely enters through the front door announcing itself,” says Dr. Ozinci. “It sneaks in disguised as irritability, stomachaches or withdrawal.” It’s important for parents to keep an eye out for changes in mood. Anxiety and depression in young people often look like anger, frustration, emotional reactivity or a sudden loss of interest in activities. “Keep an eye out for subtle changes rather than dramatic declarations,” says the doctor. These can include frequent headaches or stomach aches, self-isolation, declining grades, sleep disturbances and appetite changes.

If you suspect that your child is feeling stressed, your first instinct is likely to take steps to fix it—but Dr. Ozinci offers a caution. “Most adults switch into problem-solving mode right away,” she says. “We offer advice, solutions or logic. But emotional regulation almost always follows emotional validation. Before you correct, connect.” She suggests sitting beside your child and, rather than offering a solution, saying, “It makes sense that you’re feeling overwhelmed.” If anxiety continues to get worse, offering simple tools such as “box breathing” (inhale for four seconds, hold for four seconds, exhale for four seconds) or the five-senses grounding technique (naming five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell and one you can taste) is also often effective.

• Give everyone grace. No matter how hard you work to keep yourself, your child and your family on a schedule, it’s inevitable that sometimes your effort will fall short. That’s why occasionally cutting your child some slack—and maybe yourself too—is a necessary part of your arsenal of behaviors. “Give yourself permission to stop chasing perfection,” says Dr. Ozinci. “The goal is not a flawless schedule; it’s a predictable rhythm.”

Adds the doctor: “If the home environment is panicked about the upcoming school year, children will internalize that. What they need most is not just a calm schedule, but calm people. Families that thrive are not the ones that never get off track. They are the ones that know how to bend without breaking and return to the track without panic.”

TEENS TELL ALL

What’s it like to be a high schooler today? AI couldn’t tell us, so we asked 11 rising seniors from around the county instead. Here’s what they said.

BY RITA GUARNA

Everyone who’s been to high school knows that seniors rule the roost. As for those who are about to be seniors, their confidence can be unsettling. “In 10 years,” declares one student, “I hope to see myself in the operating room, administering anesthesia.” But in today’s world of academic pressure, social pressure and a job market evidently about to be gobbled up by artificial intelligence, confidence isn’t all you hear when you listen to a group of teens talk candidly in depth about their lives and expectations. You

FORUM MEMBERS:

MODERATOR:

Rita Guarna, Editor In Chief, BERGEN Magazine

also hear fear. Says one: “They kind of throw us off the cliff and expect us to make our own parachute.”

BERGEN doesn’t cover everything when each year we interview a group of high schoolers. And our group is no statistical sample. Our chosen students are leaders—in the classroom, on the playing field, in activities and in the community. In fact, where they find time and energy for their dizzying range of pursuits is a terrifying mystery. But these are good, articulate kids. And except for one maddening conversational tic they all seem to share, we really, like, like them.

OUR

From left: Julien Santos, North Arlington High School, Maya Naltner, River Dell High School, Michael Dottino, New Milford High School, Sara Persampieri, Waldwick High School, Shawn Philip, Paramus High School, Julia Ingrasselino, Mahwah High School, Anthony Buttacavole, Lodi High School, Jenna Korteling, Hasbrouck Heights High School, Rose Dooley, Academy of the Holy Angels, Malia Hamilton, Immaculate Heart Academy, Viana Mattson, Park Ridge High School.

Rita: As rising seniors, you’ve completed three years of high school. What’s on your mind as you head into the summer before senior year?

Julien: The college process. The fact that this time next year I’m going to be committed to a college really scares me, because I have no idea where I want to go.

Jenna: I want to balance having fun with schoolwork, because I’m taking APs and I’m going to have summer work, but I also want to prioritize hanging out with my friends before we all leave.

Maya: Getting that first draft of my college essay done is really weighing on me. Making sure I pick the right topic, something that expresses who I am as a person—while also, I agree, spending time with my friends, because it’s our last summer in high school.

Rita: So how many of you are going to be doing academics during the summer? [Most raise their hands.] Oh my gosh, so most of you. Are you going to be working as well? Does everybody have a summer job? [Most nod and say yes.]

Malia: I would say SATs. They can feel really highstakes, even though we’re told it’s only one part of our application. I don’t think it’s the test itself that makes it so stressful, but really what it represents, like college opportunities.

Viana: I agree and I disagree, only because I also want to create music, but I feel like AI can’t really take the arts away, only because there’s human emotion. When you see someone singing and you connect with that person, that’s something technology can’t really take.

Maya: I want to pursue the medical field, and AI was definitely something I was thinking about. I take a class called science research, and my teacher makes sure we get to explore different career choices. His advice to me on becoming a doctor was that a large portion of becoming a doctor is collecting information and creating a diagnosis, which when you think about AI, what does it do? It takes information and spits out an outcome. So while I agree with that, I think there’s something so important, as Viana was saying, about human emotion and connection. I think it will be a while before patients can come to terms with the fact that a robot is taking care of them. They trust in their

that since we’re becoming adults, we need to learn how to deal with our own problems at a certain point in our lives. And they kind of throw us off the cliff and expect us to make our own parachute.

A REALLY BIG DISCONNECT

Rita: On your way down? So what about guidance counselors?

Julien: My guidance counselor helps me a lot. I think she respects me, she trusts me, and I feel the same way about her. Because, I feel what Michael said, like, yes, we’re thrown off a cliff. But the way we learn is by making mistakes. And I feel like my guidance counselor’s been there when I make mistakes.

Shawn: My guidance counselor and the resources available to me are very sufficient. A lot of the time when I see my peers saying they don’t know what they want to do, I think it’s because they’re not utilizing their resources properly. But there’s definitely an aspect of, like, overwhelmingness. There’s so many things happening at once.

“I feel I have a really big disconnect with my guidance counselor. This whole high-school process has been really stressful for me.”

—Julia Ingrasselino, Mahwah High School, Mahwah

providers. They want that connection and to feel safe with who’s in charge of their health care.

Rita: Are you concerned about the job market? For example, has the emergence of AI influenced the way you think about what your major is going to be and what job you might go for?

Shawn: Yeah. So I have an older brother, and he’s going to graduate college next year, and seeing him trying to put himself out there in the job market and really struggling, it makes me think, “Wow, what’s it going to be like for me, especially when I’m going in later than him?”

Anthony: I think it’s going to be a very hard step, especially if you are interested in music or arts or something like that. It’s a very competitive state already.

Rita: Considering the challenges that the two of you just mentioned, is that giving you pause?

Anthony: Yes. I would say a little bit, just because it’s such a competitive market and it’s not really highpaying either. You have to have financial stability. Let’s say you have somebody in your life you love, you have to support them as well, and just balancing that out is very difficult.

Rita: You’re already thinking about marriage? [Laughs.] So you’re talking specifically about a career in music?

Anthony: Yeah. It could be other jobs as well, but either way, I think this state does have a high rate of people not getting jobs.

Sara: I’m interested in going into occupational therapy, and I feel like AI can’t really affect that either. Occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy—those are jobs that I feel cannot be replaced by AI because you need that human, face-to-face connection to help someone recover.

Jenna: I’m a little worried about some fields because I think the ones that will continue to succeed are the ones with innovation. I mean, after all, humans made AI, so if we continue to put in our own creativity, we’ll be fine. But the careers that don’t have creativity or innovation, AI is just going to build off what we already know and take that over.

Shawn: I want to go into finance, and although AI is definitely making waves there, it just makes me want to work harder so that I don’t have to worry about having my job stolen by AI.

Julia: I can see how AI has been used many times throughout the school year. There’s such a difference between personal voice and what this technology is telling me to write. It’s sort of what I truly feel. That ties along with what both of you are saying with the music. So what Shawn was saying, working harder, I totally agree with that.

Rita: Do you feel informed about your options after high school?

Michael: I feel we were put in a position where we felt like we have to figure it out all ourselves. And

Julia: I feel I have a really big disconnect with my guidance counselor. This whole high-school process has been really stressful for me. I was really lucky. I have an older sister, so she helped me through everything. But at our school we offer so many great things, externships and internships. I had no clue about it, but my friends did. When I was looking at what they were doing last summer, they were all interning at all these amazing places where I didn’t know about that.

Rita: I guess you have to get information from lots of different places.

Anthony: I fully agree. Guidance could always do more. And my relationship with my guidance counselors—to be honest, it’s not really the best. I feel like every time I would have to reach out to them, they wouldn’t really reach out to me. It’s very noncommunicative, if that makes sense. Just even the college application process—we have to do it all ourselves. I have to ask my senior friends every time about the SATs coming up, or colleges I want to go to for visitation.

Rose: A lot of times there’s not many guidance counselors for such a big school. My school is much smaller than a large public school, but we still only have two or three counselors, so it’s hard when one counselor is working with 25, 50 kids. It’s hard to feel like they know you on a personal level.

Rita: That’s a good point—I think that the kids who really push and say, “I need you for this or that” are the ones that are going to get the help. So now I’m going to segue into the cost of college. Has that

impacted where you want to apply and how hard you’re studying, in the hope of scholarships?

Sara: With occupational therapy, a lot of schools have dual-degree programs which lower the cost and make it faster. So it would be either a “3 plus 2” or “3 plus 3.” That’s something I’m definitely interested in, especially when I’m looking at colleges. Sacred Heart has one. Quinnipiac has one. That narrows my options, because it’s a way to save money and still get the degree.

Maya: I’m looking to be a doctor. Right now, I’m looking to pursuing B.S.-and-M.D. programs, where, straight out of high school, you can apply to one school that will connect you to the medical school and you’re guaranteed admission. They’re extremely hard to get into. But they can be a faster process in getting to your end goal. At the same time, though, me and my friend who recently were talking about this, it’s frustrating as a student to work so hard and maybe end up getting into your dream school and be unable to attend because of cost. I think that’s why we work so hard hoping to get merit scholarships. But not everybody is going to be recognized, and the costs just keep increasing.

Jenna: Price is definitely a factor, but depending on the reputation of the school, I’m willing to take out loans. Like, for example, if I got into an Ivy and they weren’t going to give me that much scholarship, I’m willing to pay back loans later in order to get the degree from there.

marketing. So especially with the advancements of AI, it might be a bit tougher for me. But you just never know. And I think you’re going to end up where you’re meant to be. Some of my top schools are close to 90 to 100K a year.

Rita: Are you guys thinking you’ll just take on this debt, or are parents helping?

Malia: I probably would stick to a school that gave me more money, even if it doesn’t have the best reputation. I don’t think I’m willing to go into, like, 400K coming out of college.

Julia: Oh, I definitely agree. It’s really important to our family—my mom wants me to apply to any school I want to. But when it does come to cost, she would prefer me to go to a school that did give me more money because when we’re graduating college, I know it can be tough sometimes to get a job. It might take some time to look around. So I wouldn’t want to be too much in debt.

Maya: I definitely agree it will come down to cost, at the end of the day, among other things. Pursuing a degree in medicine, for example, eventually you will have to pay back your student loans. Hopefully my

Julia: I love that you brought that up. I actually took a class last year called Effective Communication, and we were put into situations where we had to give speeches. I had to do a wedding speech. So it was a toast, and you got to pick whoever you wanted to give it to. You could have done Spongebob Squarepants! I did my sister. It was just so amazing—you were put into a scenario that you had to learn how you’re going to be in front of 100 to 500 people one day. I wish they made this a mandatory class.

Rita: Did you speak extemporaneously or were you allowed to use cue cards?

Julia: So for some of them, we used cue cards. But for this wedding toast, you were put on a podium on stage in our auditorium, and you had to speak to the rest of the class from just what you memorized from your script. And it was really cool to see everyone and what they had to say and how you truly saw the personalities just flow through everyone because you were going off of your head but trying to memorize. You heard, like, the little giggles and everything.

“Something that should be required is learning about public speaking. It’s one of the largest skills that can help you progress regardless of your career.”

—Shawn Philip, Paramus High School, Paramus

parents will help me as much as they can. But I’m also aware that I want to go to a good school and I’m willing to pay back what it comes down to.

Jenna: My school also has public speaking as an elective. But they don’t make us take it, and I think they should. I haven’t taken it, but it’s definitely a good life skill. And then personal finance is an elective all sophomores have to take. It’s only half a year. I also think we should bring back home economics classes because so many people don’t know how to do basic skills in life.

Rita: Do you have an idea of a career path?

Jenna: I want to do chemical engineering. For that, I think it’s better to get a degree from a school with a good reputation because when you’re out in the job market, the employers are going to pick the one with the degree from the better school.

Shawn: For me, cost is definitely a driving factor. When I talk with my parents, a lot of the time they bring up my older brother. He’s getting a degree right now, and college is very expensive for him. Seeing the struggles that he goes through regarding debt and college expenses, it’s always in the back of my mind. Like, do I want to do what I really want, or do I want to do what’s best for me?

Rita: Could you explain?

Shawn: For instance, if I wanted to go to UCLA with its reputation and its opportunities. And then if I wanted to go to a state school like Rutgers. Obviously, Rutgers would be much less expensive, but they may not give me the opportunities UCLA would.

Malia: I agree with a lot of what you guys are saying. But I wouldn’t take a school off my list just because of cost. Cost is a driving factor for me, and I’m interested in going into the field of business

Rita: We’re talking a lot about finances. Do they teach that in school? And is there something you wish were taught in high school that really isn’t?

Michael: Physical things like sewing and fixing buttons are not widely accessible within lots of schools, and this stuff is important as a basic human skill. I feel like most young people have no idea how to just fix a little rip on their shirt.

Viana: In my school, they have a course in financial literacy in ninth grade, but it’s only for a short time in a quarter. I feel like that should be taught at least in senior year because I don’t remember anything that was in freshman year.

Rita: That’s a good point, because now you’re facing decisions that are going to impact your adult lives. Paying back loans is a big deal.

Shawn: Something that should be required is learning about public speaking. It’s one of the largest skills that can help you progress regardless of your career. The opportunities for public speaking are only really through clubs like Model UN or DECA [Distributive Education Clubs of America]. If you could already start ahead of the game, that would be very helpful.

Rita: Home economics, that’s a good one. Steve, do you know how to sew a button?

Steve Vitarbo [BERGEN’s creative director]: I failed home ec in seventh grade, and I am the cook and seamster of my house.

Rita: OK. How do you juggle academics, athletics, extracurriculars, socializing and work? I’m surprised to hear that so many of you will be doing academics even throughout the summer. How do you juggle everything?

Jenna: I’ve used a planner for, like, ever. I write down all my clubs, all my homework definitely to organize and also to remember everything.

Rose: I’m a three-sport athlete, and I also take, like, AP classes. Especially this year, January, I did a lot of working ahead. Like, on the weekends, I was really careful of what my week could be—when I had games, what time my practices ended, what I had to do after school. If I had a big test on Thursday, I would study, say, on Sunday.

Rita: What are your three sports?

Rose: I play volleyball in the fall, basketball in winter and lacrosse in spring.

Rita: Are you on the traveling team?

Rose: Yeah, I play on a club team. I’m actually going to play lacrosse in college, so I play on a club team over the summer.

Michael: It’s very difficult to manage your time when you have to do all these different things, especially with school and the APs. I end up dealing with the stress by putting stuff out. Like, if I have to take a test on Thursday, I’ll try to do all my schoolwork within the school day to get it out of the way, while also thinking, “Oh, how am I going to get to it after school?” Planning around your schedule and making sure stuff doesn’t overlap is the biggest part of dealing with stress.

Malia: I do something really funny. I’m on the executive board for a lot of clubs. I will email myself, text myself and set reminders on my phone. I’ll schedule emails so that when I wake up in the morning, I remember exactly what to do.

Shawn: To balance out all the things I do, I rank them on a level of importance. Like, what do I have to do first, or what do I have to do that’s most going to affect me? And then, like, I just go down that line. Like, you don’t want to wait for the last second.

Julien: I agree with Shawn. In the winter last year, I was doing track. My main sport is not track; I’m a two-sport athlete, and I was just doing track to get better at my main sport. And my grades, like, they took a toll because it’s hard. Like, you go home from your practice, your extracurriculars, your games, and you realize, “Oh, I have a test to study for. Oh, I have a review, a 50-question review to study for, and I have 20 minutes to do it.” And that’s why what Shawn said I think is really important, because you have to have some self-reflection and be like, “What is going to be really beneficial for me in the long term?”

Rita: Do you guys get a lot of sleep?

All: No. Flat out no.

Rita: How many hours, generally?

Anthony: I would say, like, four, maybe five. Rose: I feel like I get a lot of sleep. I try to prioritize my sleep, especially being an athlete. Like, I can’t go to bed at 2 a.m. I know some of my friends are insane. But, like, I really try to go to bed by 10:30, because I’m going to get up at 6 in the morning to go to school. I feel like I need a lot of sleep to function.

Rita: I guess it’s what your body needs too.

Viana: I do try to go to sleep early, like Rose said. I try to go to bed by maybe, 9. But that’s very hard to do. I get home at, like, 8 o’clock, and then I have homework and then a shower. But I also don’t sleep the whole night through. I’m always waking up in the middle of the night.

SOON ‘I’LL BE FREE’

Rita: How do you deal with stress so it doesn’t become debilitating?

Viana: It’s always going. A lot of times I’m like, “What do I have to do the next day?”

Maya: Sometimes when I’m super-stressed out, I will put aside going out with my friends or, you know, even sometimes my sport, if I really have to stay home and get work done. Because, even if I maybe have another slot of time where I can do it, if it’s really affecting me to where I can’t perform other

things to my best abilities, I just have to get it over with as soon as possible and be able to move on to the next task with a clear mind.

Jenna: I’m a little bit the opposite. If I’m at a breaking point, I’ll step away from the task instead of completing it. I get a little bit of procrastination, but I’ll stop and go out with my friends or go to the mall just to have some therapy.

Malia: When I’m stressed out, I like to think to myself, “In a month, when it’s summer, I’ll be free. I won’t have to do any of this.” So I just try and get whatever I have to do done in that moment.

Julia: As high school students, a lot of stress is put onto us. I mean, we want to do things that we love and balance, “Oh, yeah, this is going to look good for college applications.” That’s something that definitely has stressed me out this year. I was a threesport athlete, but I actually had to step aside from two of them because they just were not working out well with how I was.

Sara: I also had to do something like that. I had to take a step away from dance. I’ve been dancing since I was young, and it was one of the hardest decisions I had to make. But I actually decided to join theater, and that has been an amazing experience for me. And although it stresses me out to balance a bunch of things at once, just being at my extracurricular almost takes away the stress at the same time as it makes me stressed. The stress comes from, like, “Oh, after this I have so much more to do!” But while I’m there, everything just leaves my mind.

Rita: You’re are doing some interesting stuff. Tell me about your extracurriculars or your sports.

Malia: I’m a part of DECA and Black Student Union. I’m on the board for all three of these clubs. Like I said, I’m interested in marketing, so I’m vice president of marketing for basically all of those clubs. In my free time, I like to look up online certificates for digital marketing. I had my own passion project related to skin care and marketing, so I would post, me and my ambassadors would post, daily on social media. We would target middle-school girls.

Shawn: At my school, I’m student council president for my grade, and I’m also a part of a few clubs like DECA and Model UN. In DECA, I’m the

From top, left to right: Anthony Buttacavole, Sara Persampieri, Shawn Philip, Malia Hamilton.

officer of fundraising, and for Model UN I’ve won awards like “best delegate.” Balancing those things out between work and school has been a learning experience for me.

Sara: I mentioned theater, so I’m drama captain and choreographer for both the middle-school and high-school shows. I’m part of National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. I founded my own club with two of my friends. It’s called Package with Purpose, and we make homeless care packages and send them out. I’m also part of Global Awareness Club, where we work with kids in Kenya and tutor them over Zoom calls.

Anthony: I’m the president of drama club. I do yearbook as well, and it has deadlines. I do morning announcements, which is like videography and stuff like that. And I also play football, balancing out academics with theater. I’m also planning to do a musical this summer—registering for it today, actually.

Viana: Pretty much everything I do is music related. I’m in three choirs in my school. I do tennis, but that’s more just to stay active. I’m also in theater and theater honor society.

Maya: In school, I’m a part of speech and debate club, which I really enjoy, especially during the winter. It’s going to competitions. It gets some of my stress out when I’m attacking the pillars of my opponent. And then I’m also the vice president of fundraising for the team club at River Dell. We support different people within Uganda—children and grandmothers. We do a lot of fundraisers to try to get them some necessities, just like basic water and hygiene. Outside of school, something I’m passionate about is inclusivity. I’m a part of the American Special Children’s Pilgrimage Group. This year I was privileged to travel to France with a group of special-needs teenagers and young adults. Our whole purpose is to make them feel included, because in daily life, you know, at times they might not feel like they’re accepted.

also an ambassador for my school, so we give tours at open houses. And I work two jobs. Then I also coach 10-year-old girls. But I do that, like, year-round.

Jenna: Spanish Honor Society, National Honor Society, I do cheer as a fall sport. I do taekwondo year-round. But that’s also my job. So I take classes and I coach the little kids. I’m still a Girl Scout. I’m in a bunch of clubs like Outreach, Spirit Club. Spirit Club ties in with cheer, so that’s, like, mandatory. My friends and I are starting an animal club where we’re going to have fundraisers for the local shelter. Because my friend wants to be a vet. So that’s going to be fun.

Julia: I do golf. This year I was the girls’ golf captain. I’m also vice president of the Habitat for Humanity club at my school. We’re actually building a house in Oradell. I’m not very handy, so basically I had to plan a lot of events this year so that we would raise money. Aside from that, I’m part of the Hope Club at my school. One of our main events is Bring Your Child to Work Day. And we hang out with all the little kids.

Julien: I am a two-sport athlete. I captain my soccer team and I play golf, just like Julia. And I’m in the National Honor Society. I’m the president of

other siblings—I have seven siblings total. She’s always been there, by my side. My mom got kicked out of the house. My dad was always working, so he couldn’t really spend that much time with me. She’s always been there. I’ll ask her questions about college or anything. Like, she’s in college right now, actually. She’s also pursuing music. And no matter how many times we get into fights, I know I can always count on her.

Viana: My mom. She’s also my best friend. She’s just been so supportive of me too. My dream, you know, music industry is a very, very difficult industry to get into. And, you know, I get scared sometimes wondering if I’m going to make it there. But she’s always by my side. I would call her a “momager” because she tries to help me.

“When I was in eighth grade, I thought high school was exactly like in the movies. Like, it was all bullying. If you’re a freshman, don’t even go into the hallway.”

Maya: Similarly in my family, my older brother. I’ve seen when he was younger and, you know, going through rough patches through high school and then getting into some amazing colleges. Then, in college, he eventually didn’t perform to the level he needed to, and he ended up going to community college. Now he has a fabulous first job that he’s making a great starting salary from. He said, “Everything that I went through in college was for you. I can spread all my wisdom, and you can hopefully have a little bit of a smoother path than me.”

—Julien Santos, North Arlington High School, North Arlington

the Italian Honor Society. I’m also in the athletic council. I do some mentor programs for the eighth graders and the freshmen. We go down to the middle school, and they ask us questions about high school. It’s basically all about sports—not going to lie. They all ask about sports. Some of them are like, “What’s lunch like?”

Rita: Does anybody in the group not have a job during the school year? [Eight students raise their hands.] Next questions: Who are your role models?

Sara: Probably my theater director, because he made the transition from dance to theater— through comedy. He also kind of pushed me to, like, take more of a leadership role, because when I am doing choreography, I’m kind of on my own, and I’m teaching kids my age and kids older than me. That was a little intimidating at first, but with his support and help, he really made it a great environment to be in and just allowed me to be passionate about dance in a different way—be around my friends and still take on that leadership role.

Michael: I’m part of the Future Health Club, the Peer Leadership Club and I’m part of the club that’s run by my friends. We write letters to elderly people who don’t have people to speak to a lot. I’m part of the Hispanic Honor Society. I’m class president. I play soccer and I run track. And outside of school, I just started volunteering at Valley Hospital in the nurse’s quarters.

Rose: This year I was captain of the basketball team and the lacrosse team. I’m pretty active. I’m vice president of the Outreach Club, a service club. We do food drives and other outreach programs. I’m

Rose: I’d say my mom. She’s an inspirational woman. She works really hard. She worked all through college. She is a doctor, and I want to be a doctor, so I really look to her as my inspiration.

Shawn: I would say my dad. He’s very accomplished. Back in the day he lived in a small town in India. And every time we had relatives or family friends over, they’re always telling me, “Oh, your dad brought us out of our small town. And he was the first one in his area to get into online, AI stuff and tech stuff, which got him a job in America.” Which is, like, the reason I’m here. That kind of makes me want to go a step further and make myself in a similar way.

Anthony: My sister. She had to take care of my

Malia: I would say my biggest role model is all of you guys—and everyone I choose to surround myself with. I’m a strong believer that you are who you hang out with. I feel like you gain a whole bunch of insights and perspectives on everything by just who you hang around with. So, you guys all inspire me.

Julien: I’d say definitely my mom, the way she works. She deserves so much more than what she’s been given. Her constant drive to do everything inspires me to just put my 110 percent into everything I do.

Julia: I love what Malia said because I totally agree. You are who you hang out with. And I think just from hearing what everyone had to say, having a role model in your life—and it doesn’t

matter who—gives you a little push to what you want to be. For me, also anyone that truly has a big influence on my life and makes me a better person is my role model, whether it’s a friend I met for the first time or my golf coach.

Jenna: A lot of figures in my life are role models, but a big one is my chemistry teacher. He’s the reason I fell in love with chemistry and want to go into it. But he also, as a person, persevered through many personal challenges. He’s had surgeries through my years with him, but he still was able to get us through the academics.

Michael: My freshman English teacher. She really taught me how to grow into my own self and be my own person and not worry about what other people think. She really helped me grow as a student as well, teaching me how to manage my time better.

‘PEOPLE YOU THOUGHT WERE FRIENDS’

Rita: Do you guys feel accepted by your peers? Are there cliques in school?

Anthony: In my school there’s a lot of cliques everywhere. Best way to put it is everyone’s so separated and everyone has, like, this tension. So this year we want to try to get everybody together, especially in the summer so we could build up for that. And there’s people that don’t like each other. But at the end of the day, you know, we’re all one class and we have to be together as one.

Rose: I go to an all-girls school and my class is pretty small. There’s only, like, 100 of us. Obviously, everyone’s going to have their own friend group, but I think everyone’s really close. We’ll all hang out, do different opportunities together. So I think it’s less cliquey, but that might just be because I don’t have evidence.

Malia: Yeah, I agree with Rose. There’s a strong sense of community and sisterhood at my school. I feel like people of different backgrounds, interests and perspectives do feel genuinely respected in our school. Everyone does have their separate friend groups. But I feel like in my school, we’re able to really come together.

Shawn: One thing I’ve learned being student council president for the past year is that there’s a huge lack of initiative in my grade. To participate in activities or, like, go out of their comfort zone, which is obviously understandable, but—

Rita: But wait. Is it because of having so much to do? Or is it a sense of complacency?

Shawn: I mean, there’s definitely multiple factors, depending on the person. Obviously, there’s things you can’t avoid—outside-of-school responsibilities. But, for the most part, I feel like a lot of people in my grade are just trying to get in and get out, you know? Just trying to get their eight hours of school done and then go home, do whatever they have to do. But for my grade I’ve noticed that a lot of people you wouldn’t expect to, hang out with each other, like, on a Saturday night. There’s a lot of interconnectedness between friend groups.

Julia: Personally, I had to go through something this year. I had to step away from some girls I was having conflicts with. And it taught me that in life there’s going to be a lot of people that are jealous of what you get. I’m actually on the student government council. And just to see that a group of people you

thought were your closest friends can be jealous of what you worked hard to get is really disappointing.

Rita: And it’s hurtful.

Julia: Yeah, it definitely really is hurtful. But I think for us—especially this group of people—we all learned how to, like, step away from that. I wanted to see what these people— maybe they would be better and want to be supportive of me. But instead of being supportive, they disappointed. So in high school, I think you’re definitely, like, learning who your friends are.

Jenna: Yeah, like, Malia and Rose, my school, I would say, is very tightknit. I mean, there’s, like, dudes at my school, not just girls. But I would say we’re, like, a small school. Everyone’s friends. I mean, there’s people that— sometimes you’re not fit for some people. But we all get along. There are definitely friend groups.

Maya: River Dell has such an interesting place because we are two towns. We’re River Edge and Oradell. And we come together into one school. And I was coming from a super all-River Edge girl-friend group. As soon as I entered high school, I had an experience similar to what Julia was going through. And I ended up, through my classes, becoming friends with girls I think I ended up being better suited for. And now it’s interesting—my entire friend group is Oradell girls. For the most part, especially through our classes at River Dell, you can really befriend people from all different groups. There are different cliques, per se, or different groups of friends. Some of those groups try to separate themselves more than others. But for the most part, we really have a great community. And if you are willing to talk to other people, they’re willing to talk to you. And we can make new friends all the time.

Rita: So what about bullying? Has anybody been affected by it, witnessed it? You know, we read horrible stories in the news.

Anthony: Probably when I was a kid, I would say elementary-school cyberbullying, which obviously ties into the social media. I’ve been involved in a lot of stuff that deals with bullying. Obviously, you know, being fat-shamed is a big thing too. I don’t let it bother me, because now in high school, nobody cares what you do nowadays. But, yeah, I have had experiences with being cyberbullied.

From top, left to right: Maya Naltner, Viana Mattson, Rose Dooley, Michael Dottino.

Julien: Well, when I was in eighth grade, I don’t know about you guys, but I thought high school was exactly like in the movies. Like, it was all bullying. If you’re a freshman, don’t even go into the hallway. I remember I was talking to my friend—he’s still one of my best friends—and I was like, “I’m not going to go to bathroom freshman year.” And I learned that it’s very different. Like what Anthony said, nobody really cares what you do as long as you don’t act like you’re some certain way, like, that you’re not. Like, if you don’t act, like, with your chest up or, like, you act like you’re hard or whatever it is. Right?

Rita: Just be who you are.

Rita: Does anybody have a favorite high-school memory?

Anthony: Powder Puff, which is basically the boys are the cheerleaders and the girls play the game. That was when our class really got together—everyone was so happy that day. And probably doing the musical this year, Frozen I played Kristoff.

Malia: We have Sophomore Spirit Day at our school. That was really a day where I felt a strong sense of community and sisterhood because we were all randomly placed in separate teams. So

specific feeling when your football team wins. We have this special cheer, and then we all gather and hug, and it’s a great feeling. You feel like family.

Julien: My favorite memory would be freshman year. I was on varsity soccer, and we made it to the sectional final. We did lose, but there was, like—my school is really small. Our town is a mile long. There’s 800 kids in my school, and there was at least 500 kids at the game, and that’s the most because not a lot of people go to soccer games. It was an amazing experience. It was so cool seeing everybody there.

“Eventually, you will have to pay back your student loans. Hopefully, my parents will help me as much as they can.”

Shawn: I would say for my school, it’s kind of an outdated concept. Obviously, people poke fun at each other. But for the most part, if there is bullying, it’s shut down very quickly. Our guidance counselors and administration are very keen on noticing things— cutting it at the root, you know, instead of letting it blossom into something else.

Michael: It doesn’t happen in the traditional way that people think anymore. It’s not really a teasing— they don’t want to say straight to your face anymore, but, like, spread around behind your back instead.

Maya: I agree. At River Dell there isn’t the classical sense of people fighting in the hallways. But there’s definitely a rumor aspect where word travels really fast. If someone’s doing something they’re not supposed to, it gets around, and I think that can make people feel really isolated and hurt. So in that sense, that’s bullying as well as, like, gossip. But for the most part, not if you’re with a good group of people you can trust. You have to be careful what you say if you’re not.

—Maya Naltner, River Dell High School, Oradell

even if you didn’t really talk to one of those people in a group, you were forced to in that moment because you wanted to win whatever competition was happening.

Sara: All the bonding with my theater friends. We did Bye Bye Birdie And this year was my first year being in it. Just being more present this year compared to last year and being around everyone, it’s been some of the best times we’ve had. We do a lot of outside bonding stuff. We go to Applebee’s Thursday night, and watch the Tony Awards and have a cast party. I feel like all the outside bonding makes the performances so much better because we’re all so connected.

Viana: We did Little Mermaid I was Ariel, and it was so fun. I got to talk to people I never thought I would ever speak to or ever have a friendship with, and now they’re one of my closest friends.

Jenna: I’m on the cheer team, and there’s a

Shawn: One of my favorite experiences was actually this year. We had a basketball game, and typically maybe 40 people max would come out to the games, but this one was directly after school. The stands were packed. And we ended up winning that game in overtime, and one of my friends actually scored the game-winning basket. Two seconds left on the clock. Right as it went in, everyone rushed to the court. It was crazy.

Julia: This year by far has been my favorite year— through all the stress and everything that I’ve had to learn from. It’s bittersweet, almost—I’m really close with the seniors, so, just having our last moments together. At the beginning of the year, at football, you have one week that’s Spirit Week and then you have a big pep rally. It was just so much fun.

Rose: My favorite memory is probably my freshman year, being on the lacrosse team. Coming as a freshman, I felt really accepted and it was such a tight community, just my team. And I had some of my best friends, like those seniors that graduated that year as well.

From left to right: Julia Ingrasselino, Julien Santos, Jenna Korteling.

Michael: It was a few weeks ago. My track team won the sectional title, which was really cool. And being a part of that team was really something fun. Getting to do it with some of my closest friends really made it a highlight.

Rita: Do you guys feel safe in school?

Julien: Yeah. My school is located right next to a police department. And we have an officer and a security guard at school. So I’m pretty much good.

Anthony: Yeah, my school, the same thing. There’s a police station and we have security officers. Our administration takes it very seriously.

Malia: We also have police officers walking around in my school, and you can only get into the building with your ID.

Rita: So where do you see yourselves in 10 years? You’re going to be out of college. You’re going to be in a job. Anthony’s going to be married. What do you hope for 10 years from now?

Jenna: I see myself starting a stable career, hopefully, and I definitely want to start settling down and starting to have kids and have my own house stuff.

Michael: In 10 years, I hope to see myself in the operating room, administering anesthesia.

Rita: Oh, you want to be an anesthesiologist?

Michael: Yes, a nurse. And I want to have a family and hopefully own a home.

Malia: I hope I’m working in corporate beauty marketing and I’m also interested in luxury real estate. And entrepreneurship. I want to start my own

skincare line, so before that, I would also have to build up a strong social-media presence.

Anthony: Broadway!

Shawn: Actually, I had to do an assignment like this recently for Spanish. I see myself in the investment banking line, particularly on Wall Street. I’ve always seen that as an admirable job and a steady career path.

Viana: I’m hoping Broadway or beyond. I also song-write, so that’s also another dream, of course.

Rita: Oh, wow. So we’re all going to see you guys do big things!

Julia: I definitely want to study in the business field. Not really sure yet where, but I would love to just have a happy life and a happy work life.

Julien: In 10 years, I see myself working in some dermatologist field. I also am very interested in entrepreneurship, and yeah, I want to settle down around like 28, 29. But yeah, I want to have a happy family life, and I want to also own a home by that time.

Sara: I hope to become an occupational therapist, specifically of pediatrics. I don’t have to think about like my future too much, because I know, like, whatever happens will happen.

Rose: I also want to work in pediatrics. I want to be a doctor, hopefully a pediatrician.

Maya: In 10 years, I hope to be in residency for emergency medicine, and I hope that I have a fiancé. That would be really nice. And hopefully looking at homes.

Rita: We didn’t talk about social media. When you

do a post, are you thinking about going viral? Are you just trying to have fun with your friends?

Julia: I use social media a lot. When I was younger, I didn’t have an iPad or anything, so I didn’t really like the idea of social media. I felt I had to have it going into high school because that’s how you’re going to meet friends. But now that I’ve used—I use Instagram every day, Snapchat, TikTok. I mean, I would love to go TikTok famous one day.

Rita: But is that just another thing you have to do? Is that why you’re getting only four hours of sleep? Like, “Oh, I didn’t check my accounts today and I didn’t post enough today.”

Anthony: I wouldn’t say that. I feel like you could use social media in a very positive, impactful way. Social media is such a big thing now. Everybody uses it to communicate, posting stories, posting reels. And just like she said, if you go viral, that gives you credibility. You could use that for the future.

Malia: I don’t think social media is automatically positive or negative. It’s important to be intentional about how you use it because you don’t want to start comparing yourself to others and getting into all of that. But I absolutely do love social media. I love the creative aspect of it, the ability to connect with others and just express yourself authentically.

Michael: I guess, like, as an archive, if they’re still around in 20 years, I’ll look back at it and, like, “I was doing all that stuff.” It’s like an online scrapbook.

Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Kirsten Meehan, Darius Amos and Stephen Vitarbo.

Special Report

THE KIDS AREN’T ALL RIGHT

There’s a growing mental health crisis among students today—in Bergen County and across the land. BY

LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF

She was, by all accounts, smart, artistically talented and kind. According to an email from a group of concerned parents to a local newspaper, she also was the victim of relentless bullying, and on May 20 of this year, the 16-year-old, a resident of Little Ferry and a sophomore at Ridgefield Park High School, took her own life. As friends and family mourned and school administrators searched for answers, Little Ferry officials released a statement announcing that they were working with “schools, public safety officials and community partners to understand what steps can be taken to help prevent something like this from happening again.”

Not all students are bullied, of course, and not all bullying victims consider suicide. But according to the American Psychological Association (APA), students—in Bergen and elsewhere—are suffering an unprecedented mental health crisis. A 2022 study in the journal ClinicalPsychologicalScience revealed that, between 2010 and 2015, the number of teens who said they felt “useless and joyless” increased by 33 percent, and the number who committed suicide rose by 31 percent. A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that, between 2011 and 2021, 30 percent of high school girls and 41 percent of LGBTQ+ teens had considered suicide. And in May of this year, The New York Times reported that visits to doctors for anxiety among children rose by more than 250 percent over the past decade.

Jennifer Hughes is CEO of the nonprofit National Alliance on Mental Illness of New Jersey (NAMINJ), which has a dedicated Bergen County chapter and provides support, education and advocacy for people dealing with mental illness, in schools and

the community at large. As evidence of a mental health crisis among students, she cites the statistic that “more than one in seven youths has a mental health condition like anxiety and depression, but only half are receiving mental health services.”

THE ANXIOUS GENERATION

In fact, according to those who work closely with students—school counselors and therapists, for example—anxiety is by far the most common mental health challenge faced by young people, in Bergen County and across the country. “I’ve been an educator for 27 years, and the thing that’s become obvious somewhere in the last 10 years is that our kids are really anxious in a way that they never were before,” says Michael Biggan, director of high school education in the Ramsey School District. Anxiety among students isn’t just increasing, notes Kristy Ritvalsky, deputy director of Rutgers University’s Center for Comprehensive School Mental Health (CCSMH), “it’s appearing—along with loneliness, depression and even suicide attempts—at younger and younger ages.”

Why? She says it’s “multifactorial,” and one of those factors, especially in communities where parents place high value on academic success, is the increased pressure to get into a good college. In a 2025 survey from The Princeton Review, an education services company, 73 percent of students and parents reported “high” or “very high” stress over the admissions process—the highest percentage since the survey was instituted in 2002. In fact, notes Biggan, parents may be at least partially responsible for that stress.

“I think a lot of it is anxious parenting,” he says. “I’m not blaming our parents, because we have wonderful parents—it’s more like they’re loving their kids to death.” Parents themselves feel the pressure to help their children succeed, and Biggan says kids internalize that pressure. And it’s not just parents: The APA cites what it calls a “toxic achievement culture,” inside and outside our schools, that elevates achievement—in the form of a top college, a prestigious, high-paying job and consequent material success—above everything else, including happiness and personal satisfaction.

Students aren’t just being pressured about academic success; they’re getting the message that they need to succeed in extracurriculars as well. And that leads to increased anxiety about time management, says Raffaela Bartels, a therapeutic school counselor at River Dell High School. “A good percentage of students do a sport or are involved in a club or some other school activity,” she notes. “Trying to find time for homework and just time for themselves is another pressure they face.”

And then there’s COVID. The pandemic is over, but the mental health challenges it produced linger on.

Jennifer Zimmermann, student assistance counselor at Pascack Hills High School in Montvale, says that “when COVID hit, I saw an increase in mental health challenges; COVID changed everything.” A 2021 CDC survey, for instance, found that social isolation, economic hardship, online learning difficulties and increased family conflict, all resulting from the pandemic, likely contributed to those challenges.

But most mental health professionals and professional organizations, including the CDC, agree that mental health problems among students were already increasing before COVID. “Anxiety, loneliness and depression existed among students long before the pandemic,” says Ritvalsky. “The pandemic just made them impossible to ignore.” In fact, according to the CDC, there were “significant increases” in mental health challenges among young people between 2009 and 2019. Reported feelings of sadness or hopelessness, for instance, grew from 26 percent to 36.7 percent during that time, and the number of young people considering suicide rose from 13.8 percent to 18.8 percent.

What particularly distinguished that pre-pandemic decade may point to the No. 1 cause of student anxiety: the rise of social media and, adds Biggan, “especially social media on phones.” Social relationships and social standing have always been important to teenagers and preteens. The APA notes that, at around the age of 10, children’s brains change in a way that increases the importance they place on gaining peer attention and approval. But before the rise of social media, they could largely escape that pressure to belong once they got home. Now it dogs them 24/7. “They can pick up their phones and see who’s being invited where and who’s being excluded,” says Zimmermann. She also notes that “kids hide behind those screens and say things they

would never say in front of a person”—a phenomenon that can progress fairly quickly to cyberbullying.

Emma, a 15-year-old whose family lives in Midland Park, says that social media helps her “feel close to my friends” but admits that it also makes her “sometimes feel bad about myself—about the way I look and about the things I’m not doing that other people are doing.” Those carefully curated posts and the perfect (often AI-enhanced) bodies showcased on TikTok and other platforms can exact a heavy toll on children’s self-image, even when their parents explain, as Emma’s have, that social media makes it easy to exaggerate, and even lie about, one’s purportedly wonderful and exciting life.

Social media, says Bryan Connelly, director of the student mental health program NJ4S Bergen (New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services), can also deprive children of essential social and coping skills. “It makes it particularly challenging to learn how to make friends in a lasting way,” he says—a deficiency that can leave kids feeling adrift and yes, anxious.

HOW SCHOOLS ARE HELPING

Increasingly, we’re asking our schools to act as a bulwark against the mental health challenges our students are facing, and schools in Bergen are rising to the challenge. It makes sense for them to assume at least some of the burden, notes NAMINJ’s Hughes, since kids spend some six hours a day, five days a week, at school. Still, notes Ritvalsky, “schools are being asked to do more with less.” Federal money to support student mental health flowed to schools during and just after COVID, but for the most part, those funds are no longer available. The Ramsey School District, for instance, used federal funds to partner with Gaggle, a student teletherapy service, after it became clear that waiting lists for in-person therapy were prohibitively long. Now that the funds are no longer available, the district has scaled back its contract with Gaggle, using it, says Biggan, “for acute cases here and there.” On the other hand, he notes, waiting lists for therapy are shorter now than they were during the pandemic.

Many schools, however, are partnering with community organizations to address the mental health needs of students, whether for prevention efforts or therapeutic interventions, and Connelly notes that Bergen is home to more of those organizations than most other counties in the state. One of them is West Bergen Mental Healthcare Services, a Ridgewood-based nonprofit that offers an array of school-based services to local school districts, including Ramsey. While school counselors are available to students facing mental health challenges in all of Ramsey’s schools (including elementary schools), full-time employees of West Bergen serve at both the high-school and middle-school levels to support students who require more intensive therapy. In any given year, says Biggan, West Bergen counselors are likely to interact with 40 to 50 students.

Schools can also connect with community services through the NJ4S initiative, which launched in 2023-24 under Governor Phil Murphy. All public schools in the state are eligible. When a school that has chosen to participate in the program determines that a student has mental health needs that require more than in-school counseling, it can connect with a so-called hub in its area—in Bergen, that’s Children’s Aid and Family Services (CAFS)—which will then determine the community organization that can best respond to the problem. River Dell High School, for instance, partners with NJ4S and also offers a mental health app, Soluna, to its students, in addition to in-school counseling.

NJ4S, however, may not be around forever; it’s been criticized by lawmakers and others as too expensive and, for some schools, ineffective—though a number of schools have praised it for delivering positive results. The program’s future remains in question, after Governor Mikie Sherrill announced in April the creation of a new statewide objective, School-Based Partnerships for Access and Resilience for Kids (SPARK), to replace NJ4S. That announcement led to pushback from supporters of NJ4S, and it now appears that Sherrill plans to fold significant elements of the old program into SPARK.

As lawmakers spar over how the state should respond to the student mental health crisis, many schools in Bergen have risen to the challenge by beefing up their own, in-school services. Hackensack High School, for example, participated in a three-year program of training and coaching administered by Rutgers’ CCSMH, which wrapped up this past June. An important element of the training, says Ritvalsky, was risk assessment, which would allow schools to identify potential mental-health problems at an early stage.

At Pascack Hills High School, a risk-assessment team works to identify students who need mental health counseling and then provides that counseling on site, though students can also approach their counselors if they think they might benefit from therapy. Aria (who asked that we only use her first name) was a sophomore when she moved to Montvale from the Republic of Georgia, a disruption in her life that magnified the anxiety she was already experiencing. Her counselor introduced her to Zimmermann, a licensed mental health therapist, who counseled her in weekly, one-hour therapy sessions for nearly three years.

“She helped me tons,” Aria says. “I became very comfortable in my own skin. Therapy helped me put my thoughts and feelings into words, and I struggled with that before. I learned that I was very harsh on myself and she helped me love myself a lot more.”

This month, Aria is headed to Miami Dade College. A year later she plans to attend Florida International University, where she’ll study psychology. “I want to help people,” she says. “I might become a therapist myself.”

It’s the happy ending that schools would like to see a great deal more of.

MAKE THE GRADE

Whether your style leans classic or rebellious, you’ll earn top marks by knowing the season’s standout trends.

Sure, you’re not getting a letter grade on your fashion sense—but that doesn’t mean it’s not being put to the test. Whether you’re giving a presentation in English class or in the boardroom, navigating high school hallways or office corridors, grabbing smoothies after soccer practice or heading out for an upscale dinner, your style often shapes that all-important first impression. Fortunately, this season’s trends make earning a fashion “A-plus” easier than ever. Here are five looks that strike a balance between classic and cool.

• TAILORED FIT.

At Chanel’s spring/summer 2026 show, brand ambassador Nicole Kidman turned heads in a crisp white button-up and sleek jeans. Indeed, structured pieces are making a major comeback after several years of slouchy silhouettes dominating the fashion landscape. The humble button-up is getting a well-deserved glow-up, while womenswear increasingly embraces the custom, Savile Row-inspired tailoring that has defined high-end menswear for more than a century. (And why shouldn’t it?) The result is simple, effortless and undeniably polished—a style that puts the focus on you, not the clothes you’re wearing. Pair it with a pencil skirt for an office look that exudes confidence, or wear it with straight-leg pants for a touch of tomboy charm. Fitted Denim Shirt, available at H&M, Paramus, 855.466.7467

• LET’S GO, KNITS.

It wouldn’t be a fall fashion season without cozy knitwear, and 2026’s offerings are bold, playful and full of color. Stripes are having a major moment, particularly in the form of the classic rugby sweater. Look for thick, horizontal bands that add texture and vibrant hues while maintaining an elegant, sporty appeal. Tuck one into high-waisted jeans for an unexpectedly polished look, or pair it with boxy trousers for timeless collegiate charm. If you’re seeking something that marries comfort with elegance, reach for a classic ivory cableknit sweater instead. Wear it casually with denim, dress it up with a black midi skirt or make a statement by pairing it with a shorter hemline. Fearne Knit Tee, saintandsofia.com

• POCKETS GALORE.

They’re as comfortable as your favorite leggings but far more polished—and they give you somewhere to stash your phone. With a wide-leg silhouette that flatters nearly every body type and a high waist that brings structure to even the coziest hoodie, cargo pants may just become your next wardrobe workhorse. Lean into their rebellious spirit by pairing them with chunky combat boots, or soften the look with a heeled suede boot for a touch of feminine charm. Stick to neutral shades such as olive green or black for maximum versatility, using them as a canvas for your boldest jacket. Or keep the rest of your outfit understated and opt for brightly colored cargoes that will deservedly be the center of attention.

Tencel Cargo Jogger, Banana Republic, Paramus, 201.843.1180

• BE COM-PLEAT.

A pleated skirt is a must-have for anyone drawn to a polished, preppy aesthetic, and it’s firmly back in the spotlight this season. Graceful, elegant and feminine, it brings movement and dimension to any outfit while remaining remarkably versatile. Feeling flirty and bold? Reach for a shorter style and pair it with your favorite tank, a structured jacket and boots. Heading to a lunch meeting with a client? Opt for a midi-length skirt, open-toe pumps and a flowing blouse tucked neatly at the waist for a look that’s put together but not overdone. For an extra touch of glamour, finish the outfit with oversized sunglasses and a tailored blazer for a hint of old-Hollywood charm.

Short Pleated Skirt, Bloomingdale’s, Hackensack, 201.457.2000

• SKATER CHIC.

For years, our wardrobes—and our pop culture—have been fueled by ’80s nostalgia. Now the spotlight is shifting toward ’90s-inspired style, with skater chic leading the charge. It’s a natural evolution of the athleisure trend, but with a healthy dose of attitude and edge. The key to pulling off this look is confidence. Pair a fitted tank with baggy sweat pants, throw on a baseball cap to give the outfit gravitas and wear it like you mean it. Prefer denim? Reach for a graphic tee, dark-wash jeans and classic skate sneakers (Vans and Nike SB, for starters) for an unmistakably cool combination. And because no skater-inspired wardrobe is complete without a layer, keep a flannel handy for cooler days.

Thirty Years Boyfriend Sweatpants, Nordstrom, Paramus, 201.843.1122

ESCAPES

THREE ON THE

Pack light, stay close and rediscover New Jersey’s best oceanside getaways before the season slips away.

Summer won’t be here forever—have you made the most of it? Happily, the pleasures of beach relaxation, delicious dining out and fascinating sights don’t require a long flight or ocean voyage; they’re abundant in the Garden State, and there’s still time to catch them while the sun is high and the leaves haven’t started to turn. The spots below aren’t your only close-by destination choices, of course, but you’ll find them a worthy trio:

RED BANK

Situated along the Navesink River in Monmouth County (about an hour down the Parkway from Bergen), this vibrant destination combines waterfront beauty, a thriving arts scene, excellent dining and superb shopping. Its walkable streets and lively atmosphere make it an ideal stop for couples, families and anyone looking to enjoy a summer weekend close to home. Red Bank isn’t a traditional beach town, but there’s great sand nearby—at Sea Bright, just five miles away, with a boardwalk and handy eateries, and eight miles away in the federal Gateway National Recreation Area at Sandy Hook, which boasts several distinct beach areas, fishing spots and even the state’s only legal (and discreetly secluded) clothing-optional section, Gunnison Beach. Make yourself at home: For a classic Red Bank experience, the Molly Pitcher Inn remains a local landmark. Overlooking the Navesink River, the historic property offers elegant guest rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, waterfront dining and picturesque views that capture the charm of this riverfront community. Just a short distance away, Oyster Point Hotel provides a contemporary boutique experience with stylish accommodations and a sleek waterfront setting. Guests enjoy modern rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant and lounge and easy access to downtown Red Bank’s shopping, dining and entertainment. Grab a bite: Red Bank has earned a reputation as one of our state’s top dining destinations. Birravino is a local favorite known for its Italian-inspired menu, with standout dishes including wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas such as rigatoni Bolognese and seasonal seafood preparations. Patrizia’s brings a lively, family-style dining experience centered on classic Italian comfort food—diners love the oversized portions of pasta, chicken parmigiana and shared platters designed for the table. For craft beer and pub fare, Triumph Brewing Company offers house-brewed beers paired with elevated bar classics such as burgers, fish and chips, soft pretzels with beer cheese and rotating seasonal specials. Bring everyone: Entertainment is at the heart of Red Bank’s appeal. Catch a concert, a comedy act or a Broadway-caliber performance at the historic Count Basie Center for the Arts. Be sure to see ’90s rockers The Wallflowers on Aug. 17 or celebrate with others at the free William “Count” Basie Birthday Block Party on Aug. 21. Families can enjoy hands-on activities and interactive fun at Under the Glass, while YESTERcades offers a nostalgic trip through arcade gaming history with dozens of classic and modern games. Visitors should also set aside time to explore the independent boutiques, specialty shops and unique retailers that line Broad Street, the vibrant centerpiece of Red Bank’s downtown.

SHORE

OCEAN CITY

For more than a century, this town has earned a reputation as one of the Shore’s premier family destinations. Known for its wide beaches, iconic boardwalk and dry-town atmosphere, this town about two hours from Bergen offers wholesome summer fun for visitors of all ages. There are amusement rides, water attractions and standout shopping and dining—something’s always happening in this vibrant seaside community. Make yourself at home: Visitors seeking a comfortable and stylish stay should consider Coastal Chateau, a boutique property offering thoughtfully designed accommodations just minutes from the ocean. Guests enjoy modern amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi and outdoor gathering spaces. Another longtime favorite is The Flanders Hotel, a historic landmark that has beckoned travelers since the 1920s. It features spacious suites with kitchenettes, an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site spa and a fitness center—and its prime location overlooks the famous boardwalk.

Grab a bite: Hungry? This resort town offers plenty of options for every appetite. For a memorable brunch with beautiful views, Dockside Kitchen serves a mix of coastal-inspired fare and casual favorites. Options include soft shell crab sandwiches and shrimp and crab omelets as well as burgers, benedicts and burritos. The Crab Trap in nearby Somers Point has been a Shore favorite for decades, known for fresh seafood and generous portions. Popular menu items include jumbo lump crab cakes, broiled seafood platters, lobster tails and locally caught fish prepared to order. Keep in mind that Ocean City is a dry town, so restaurants neither sell nor serve alcoholic beverages. Bring everyone: Young visitors and thrill seekers of all ages will enjoy the rides and games at Playland’s Castaway Cove, a beloved boardwalk amusement park that has entertained generations of vacationers. Cool off at OC Waterpark, located on the boardwalk, or spend time at The Yard, a popular gathering spot featuring games, activities and entertainment for all ages. If you’re in town on Aug. 24, stop by the Ocean City Music Pier at 7 p.m. for a free concert by 10,000 Maniacs. Before heading home, browse Surf Mall for beach-inspired clothing, souvenirs and coastal treasures that serve as perfect reminders of a summer getaway.

—Darius Amos

CAPE MAY

At New Jersey’s southern tip, about two-and-a-half hours from Bergen, Cape May has been welcoming vacationers for generations. Known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere, the town offers a charming blend of history, culture and coastal fun. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a family getaway, Cape May delivers small-town charm with plenty to see and do.

Make yourself at home: For visitors seeking classic Cape May elegance, The Virginia Hotel offers a boutique luxury experience in the heart of town, just steps from the beach and Washington Street Mall. The property features beautifully appointed guest rooms, complimentary beach service and access to the acclaimed Ebbitt Room restaurant. Beach bums and those looking for a more casual, family-friendly option may enjoy The Boarding House, a stylish, recently renovated property that combines modern amenities and spacious, pet-friendly rooms with the laid-back spirit of the Shore.

Grab a bite: Cape May’s dining scene is one of the best on the Jersey Shore. The Blue Pig Tavern is known for its farm-to-table approach and elevated American comfort food, including its signature Blue Pig Burger, crab cakes, seasonal seafood dishes and hearty brunch favorites. For a quintessential Shore dining experience, The Lobster House is a Cape May institution, drawing visitors with steamed lobsters, clams, scallops and its renowned seafood platters. Waterfront views and dockside dining add to the appeal. Bring everyone: Families will find no shortage of activities in Cape May. Spend a day exploring the Cape May County Park & Zoo, one of New Jersey’s most beloved family attractions, or climb the historic Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Whale- and dolphin-watching excursions offer unforgettable encounters on the water, while wine lovers can relax with tastings at Cape May Winery & Vineyard. Music fans can enjoy concerts at Cape May Convention Hall throughout summer; be sure to check out rockers Blue Oyster Cult on Aug. 23! Younger visitors will enjoy the nostalgic fun of Cape May Beach Arcade, and no visit is complete without an afternoon strolling the pedestrian-friendly Washington Street Mall, home to boutique shops, restaurants and ice cream parlors.

—Darius Amos

* Sandwich halves stacked for aesthetic purposes

Picnic Perfect

Who says sandwiches have to be ordinary? These handfuls are ideal for a quick lunch, light dinner or a hearty spread.

EGGPLANT AND ROASTED RED PEPPER SANDWICH

Yields 2 servings

INGREDIENTS

4 slices of bread

2 medium-sized eggplant

1 medium-sized red bell pepper

6-8 Tbs. tomato passata

1 small handful of fresh thyme pinch of black pepper pinch of salt extra-virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS

Prepare the slices of eggplant and red pepper: Roast them in the oven at 350°F for approximately 15 minutes with a drizzle of olive oil. Add a pinch of black pepper and salt or opt for grilled veggies. Slice your bread and spread the tomato passata on all the internal layers (you’ll need approximately 2 tablespoons for each slice but it depends on the exact size of your bread). Then add the other ingredients: Start with some eggplant, followed by the red pepper, mozzarella, thyme, black pepper and olive oil–add more eggplant to finish off your sandwich.

For some extra flavor, add a drizzle of olive oil to the external layers of the sandwich. Now you can toast the sandwich on a preheated non-stick pan or place it in a preheated oven at 375°F. Cook for approximately 5 minutes or until crispy and golden on the outside. Don’t let the mozzarella melt completely; otherwise the sandwich will be too soggy. Serve warm.

“Eggplant

is rich in fiber and antioxidants, including nasunin, a compound found in the purple skin that may help protect cells from oxidative stress. The roasted red pepper adds an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune health and helps the body absorb iron from plant foods. Consider adding arugula or spinach for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals.”

—Jessica Kishpaugh,

holistic nutritionist & board-certified health & wellness coach, LoYo Wellness, Wyckoff

VEGGIE SANDWICH WITH GARLIC-HERB CHEESE

Yields 2 servings

INGREDIENTS

½ cup garlic-and-herb spreadable cheese

4 slices whole-wheat bread

1 cup cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced

1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 medium beefsteak tomato, sliced ¼-inch thick

½ cup beets, cooked and sliced

2 Tbs. mild banana pepper rings

8 leaves butter lettuce

DIRECTIONS

Spread 2 tablespoons cheese on each bread slice. Divide 1 cup sliced cucumber, the sliced bell pepper and sliced tomato, ½ cup sliced beets and 2 tablespoons banana peppers between 2 of the bread slices; top each with 4 lettuce leaves. Top with the remaining 2 bread slices, cheese-side down. Slice the sandwiches in half diagonally, if desired.

“This colorful sandwich is packed with nutrient-rich vegetables, especially beets, which contain nitrates that may help support healthy blood flow and exercise performance. For a lighter option, swap the garlic-herb cheese for hummus or mashed avocado, which provide heart-healthy fats while maintaining a creamy texture.”

—Jessica Kishpaugh, holistic nutritionist & board-certified health & wellness coach, LoYo Wellness, Wyckoff

One In A Melon

Beat the heat with this cocktail, a citrusy sip made for warm-weather evenings.

WATERMELON MARGARITA

Makes: 1 serving

INGREDIENTS

4 mint leaves

1/2 oz. light agave nectar

11/2 oz. blanco tequila

1/2 oz. lime juice, freshly squeezed

1/2 oz. watermelon juice

mint sprig and watermelon slice, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Add the mint leaves and agave into a shaker and gently muddle. Add the tequila, lime juice and watermelon juice to the muddled mint leaves, then add ice and shake until well-chilled. Doublestrain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a watermelon slice.

“For the rim, try a combo of flaky sea salt, Tajín and black lava salt. This adds color, a little smokiness and just enough heat to balance the sweet watermelon.”

—Sylvia Kelleher, bartender, Cliffside Park

Anne

Marianne Quinn

Mara

Sandra N. Lomenzo Of Counsel Alexandra

Christine H. O’Donnell Partner

Kristi M. Intorre Associate

Siobhan McGowan Partner

Carol

Sharon R. Mark

Evelyn F. Nissirios Partner

Lynda Picinic Partner

WOMEN IN LAW

Special Advertising Section

Danielle J. Cardone Moutinho, Partner

Practice Focus: Family Law

Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A.

473 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632

201.569.9898 | schepisi.com

Inspired by a family deeply rooted in the legal profession, Danielle J. Cardone Moutinho has built a successful career helping individuals and families navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions. A partner at Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A., Danielle focuses her practice on family law, where she combines legal knowledge with compassion to guide clients through divorce and other complex family matters. Over the past 14 years, she has earned a reputation as a strong advocate for her clients while providing thoughtful counsel and steadfast support during emotionally difficult times.

For Danielle, the most fulfilling part of practicing family law is helping clients move beyond uncertainty and begin a new chapter in their lives. While legal guidance is essential, she believes that offering empathy and reassurance is equally important. She understands that family law cases often involve deeply personal decisions, and she is committed to helping clients feel informed, confident, and supported throughout the process. Watching clients regain stability and embrace a positive future is what continues to inspire her work each day.

Danielle is equally passionate about encouraging the next generation of women in the legal profession. She enjoys sharing her experiences, offering honest insight into the realities of practicing law, and supporting other women as they develop their own careers. She believes mentorship plays a vital role in professional growth and encourages aspiring attorneys to seek out colleagues and mentors who will both challenge and inspire them. She also emphasizes the importance of supporting fellow women in the profession and maintaining a commitment to lifelong learning.

At Schepisi & McLaughlin, P.A., Danielle is proud to be part of a firm that recognizes and promotes the talent, dedication, and leadership of women. She credits the firm’s culture with creating meaningful opportunities for advancement through hard work and expertise. Danielle believes this supportive atmosphere not only strengthens the firm but also benefits the clients it serves, creating an environment where experienced attorneys are empowered to lead while helping others succeed.

Rivkin Radler

FLORIDA | NEW YORK | NEW JERSEY

25 Main St., Suite 501, Hackensack, New Jersey 07601 | rivkinradler.com

Rivkin Radler LLP’s New Jersey office is brimming with talent and proud of the growth of the women spearheading that effort. Leading the charge are partner, Nancy A. Del Pizzo, co-chair of the firm’s Intellectual Property group, with a commercial litigation and transactional practice in IP, privacy, media and related areas, who has been practicing for more than 20 years. Nancy has held various leadership positions inside and outside of New Jersey, including serving as a master in the John C. Lifland Inn of Court, focusing on intellectual property and co-chairing the ABA’s IP Section of Litigation Trademark subcommittee; partner, Jenna Gabay, making her mark in trust and estates, representing fiduciaries and beneficiaries, IP and commercial litigation; partner, Deborah Isaacson, defending professional liability, employment, medical malpractice and general liability disputes as well as advising on privacy and cyber law issues; partner, Ana Parikh, a recently named fellow of Litigation Counsel of America, defends general liability, labor and employ, medical malpractice and professional liability actions; and counsel, Lauren Mechaly, an invited member of the Special Needs Alliance and a Certified Elder Law Attorney, concentrates on elder law, special needs, estate planning and estate administration.

The New Jersey office’s 21 attorneys, including the 11 women we are proud to highlight here, are well-situated to handle various litigation and transactional needs, and do so in a variety of industries, including cosmetics, media, pharmaceuticals, real estate, and veterinary, to name a handful. With six offices, more than 250 attorneys, and 24 practice areas, we have a broad swath of resources to offer our clients.

Top Row (Left to right): PARTNERS, Jenna Gabay, Ana Parikh, Nancy A. Del Pizzo, Deborah Isaacson, COUNSEL, Lauren Mechaly

Bottom Row (left to right): ASSOCIATES, Kaitlyn Piechnik, Patricia H. Patlewicz, Catherine Salerno, , Lauren B. Eicher, Rebecca Lundgren and Rebecca Yin.

Ana Milena Goncalves, Esq.

AMG Law, LLC

140 E. Ridgewood Ave., Suite 415, South Tower #477

Paramus, New Jersey 07652

201.474.5454 | amglawllc.com

I know the struggle firsthand. Made in New York, born in Colombia, I grew up between two worlds, part of both and fully claimed by neither. I understand what it feels like when the system around you does not make sense, and that understanding shapes everything I do.

My path to family law was not a straight line. I graduated with a double major in Psychology and Sociology, then worked as a foster care caseworker in New York, responsible for the welfare of children in the system. I worked closely with ACS, supported biological parents seeking reunification, and served as the intermediary for supervised parenting time. I saw firsthand what families in crisis had at stake. Family law was already part of the equation, but life had other plans first.

I spent 18 years in personal injury litigation in New York as the firm’s sole associate, where I built real trial and negotiation skills and learned what it takes to run a practice. After losing my mother a decade ago, I found my way back through personal growth and a refusal to stay comfortable, guided by voices like Napoleon Hill, Earl Nightingale, and Jim Rohn. When the time came for a real shift, the answer was clear. I founded AMG Law, LLC and came home to family law.

Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, I practice exclusively in New Jersey family law. My mission is to bridge the gap between the Spanish-speaking community and family court, bringing understanding to every client I serve.

As a New Jersey approved Economic Mediator, Parenting Coordinator, and 2026 NJSBA Leadership Academy Graduate, my focus remains the same: empowering families through clear communication, sound legal guidance, and genuine cultural understanding.

Genevieve Blazini, Esq.

Marotta Blazini Dunleavy LLC

25 East Spring Valley Ave., Suite 320

Maywood, New Jersey 07607

201.368.7713 | www.mbdnjlaw.com

Genevieve Blazini, Esq., partner at Marotta Blazini Dunleavy LLC, has dedicated her legal career to the practice of Matrimonial and Family Law Litigation.

Her professional journey is rooted in a long-standing fascination with law and government, and a deep respect for the U.S. legal system’s ability to balance personal freedoms with the demands of social order. What drives her most is the immense privilege of representing clients during some of the most difficult times in their lives-offering them guidance, advocacy, and reassurance when they need it most.

Genevieve has found fulfillment not just in helping clients through tough times, but also in earning the respect of her peers within the legal community, even those she has faced off against in contentious cases.

As a woman, wife, and mother of three, Genevieve brings a deeply personal and empathetic perspective to her practice. Her life experiences allow her to connect with clients on a human level, understanding their stress and struggles beyond the legal framework. Her background in business and marketing further enrich her legal expertise, enabling her to offer clients a comprehensive, wellrounded approach to problem-solving….and provide a wonderful foundation for navigating the complexities of running a law firm.

To young women aspiring to enter the legal profession, Genevieve offers empowering advice: project confidence—even if it’s not real at first—and work harder than everyone around you….but never at the expense of your well-being. She believes being successful requires not just being good at your job but also vigilant in the pursuit of a balanced life and in safeguarding the health and vitality of your personal relationships. Genevieve Blazini's career is a testament to the impact of compassion, hard work, and authenticity in the practice of law.

Barbara B. Comerford

The Law Offices of Barbara B. Comerford

201.444.4493 | 1.866.444.6939

www.tristatedisabilitylaw.com

The Law Offices of Barbara B. Comerford has been representing disabled individuals for over 25 years in the area of ERISA Long Term Disability Claims, Social Security Disability Claims and Government Disability Pensions. Ms. Comerford and her experienced staff of attorneys and paraprofessionals have been named by an independent organization of disability specialists among the top 250 Disability Law Firms in the Country. Ms. Comerford has been honored by many disability organizations for her work in this field including the National MS Society, the NJCFSA, the Roy White Foundation, and the Community Health Law Project Ann Klein Award among others.

Ms. Comerford has been interviewed by leading media including the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg Press, the Los Angeles Times, HLN (part of CNN) on disability-related issues. Ms. Comerford has successfully represented thousands of disabled individuals throughout her career. The Law Firm provides initial free consultations to anyone with these disability issues and welcomes all to call.

Stacey L. Miller, Esq - Partner

Atkins, Tafuri, Minassian, D’Amato, Beane & Miller, P.A.

887 Kinderkamack Rd., Suite 3, River Edge, NJ 07661

201.967.5060 | Atkinstafuri.com

For more than 21 years, Stacey L. Miller, Esq., a partner at Atkins, Tafuri, Minassian, D’Amato, Beane & Miller, P.A., has practiced family law, earning the trust of clients navigating some of the most difficult chapters of their lives. Drawn to family law by the meaningful impact attorneys can have during pivotal moments in their clients’ lives, Stacey is known for her thoughtful judgment, strategic approach, and genuine compassion.

The trust her clients place in her remains one of the most rewarding aspects of her work. Recognizing that no two families are alike, Stacey provides strategic guidance across a broad range of family law matters, including complex custody and financial issues, tailoring her approach to each client’s circumstances. She evaluates each matter with an eye toward resolution but prepares each matter from the outset with the rigor required for trial. She is regularly appointed by the court as a Guardian Ad Litem and frequently serves as a mediator, reflecting the confidence judges and fellow attorneys place in her judgment.

Stacey is committed to mentoring young women entering the profession, encouraging them to build careers grounded in preparation, confidence, and professional judgment. She believes the best family lawyers combine empathy with sound judgment and the courage to stand firm when it matters most.

WOMEN IN LAW

Wells, Jaworski & Liebman, LLP

12 Route 17 North, P.O. Box 1827, Paramus, New Jersey 07653-1827 | 201.587.0888 | wellslaw.com

At Wells, Jaworski & Liebman LLP, four accomplished female attorneys are helping shape the legal landscape of Bergen County, New Jersey, through their leadership, dedication, and distinct areas of practice. Newly named partners Kathryn Razin and Jennifer Berardo lead the firm’s Land Use Department, guiding municipalities, developers, property owners, and businesses through complex zoning, planning, redevelopment, and litigation matters that continue to shape communities throughout the region. In the Trusts & Estates Department, Marley Guerrera and Alana F. Lightenberg provide sophisticated estate planning, estate administration, guardianship and tax planning services with the compassion, personal attention, and technical knowledge that families and business owners value during life’s most important transitions. Together, these four women exemplify the excellence, leadership, and commitment to client service that define Wells, Jaworski & Liebman LLP and continue to make a meaningful impact throughout Bergen County, New Jersey.

Alana Lightenberg, Marley Guerrera, Jennifer Berardo, Kathryn Razin

Cohn Lifland Pearlman Herrmann & Knopf LLP

Park 80 West-Plaza One, 250 Pehle Ave., Suite 401 Saddle Brook, NJ  07663

www.njlawfirm.com | info@njlawfirm.com  201.845.9600

Powerful Women. Proven Advocates. The women of Cohn Lifland are among New Jersey’s most respected legal professionals, earning the trust of clients facing life’s most significant challenges.

Through skilled advocacy, thoughtful counsel, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, our accomplished female attorneys deliver meaningful results while making a lasting impact in the communities they serve.

Whether you’re navigating a personal, family, or business matter, having the right legal team can make all the difference. Let Cohn Lifland provide the trusted guidance and experienced representation you deserve.

WOMEN IN LAW

Neda Mohebbi Cheverie, Esq.

Mueller Haberman Law Group

19 Engle St., Tenafly, New Jersey 07670

201.567.4969 | nmohebbi@muellerfirm.com muellerfirm.com

Neda is an Associate at MHLG with a practice focused primarily on residential real estate transactions, as well as commercial real estate matters. Inspired by the support and encouragement of her parents, she pursued a career in law with a commitment to helping clients navigate important legal decisions with confidence.

Neda began her legal career in litigation, where she developed a strong foundation in legal analysis, advocacy, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. She now brings that experience to her real estate practice, where she has spent more than a decade guiding clients through every stage of the transaction. Her practice includes but is not limited to attorney review, contract negotiation, resolving any inspection related or title concerns and ensuring that clients remain informed and supported throughout the entire process. Whether representing clients in the purchase or sale of a single-family home, condominium, co-op, or commercial property, Neda is dedicated to providing practical guidance and personalized legal counsel.

As a longtime Bergen County resident, wife, and mother of two, Neda is deeply committed to serving her community with integrity, compassion, and a client-centered approach. She takes pride in building lasting relationships founded on trust, responsiveness, and exceptional service.

Audra DePaolo

Geri Landau Squire

Mercedes Diego

Jackie Larsen

Christina Stripp

Amanda Trigg

Barbara Karpowicz

Erika Piccirillo

Jenna Rosenstein

Maria La Sala

Nancy E. Lucianna

Law Offices of Nancy E. Lucianna, P.C.

1638 Center Ave., Fort Lee, NJ 07024

201.947.6484 | luciannalaw.com

I began my legal career in 1986, inspired by my father, the legendary Frank P. Lucianna, Esq., who practiced criminal law in Bergen County, New Jersey, for 72 years. Following in his footsteps, I founded my own law firm in Fort Lee, New Jersey, in 1997.

Throughout my career, I have built a reputation as a strategic and dedicated criminal defense attorney who believes that every case deserves a thoughtful, creative approach. My greatest strength is thinking outside the box and developing a solid plan of action for every case. I take pride in fighting tirelessly for my clients.

As I look to the future, I remain committed to providing exceptional legal representation and look forward to representing many more clients in need of a strong, experienced litigator who obtains the best results for her clients.

WOMEN IN LAW

Cathy J. Pollak, Esq.

Cathy J. Pollak, Esq., LLC

21-00 Route 208 South, Suite 210, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410

201.201.7417

cathy@cathypollaklaw.com www.cathypollaklaw.com

Cathy J. Pollak has practiced law for decades, driven by a lifelong passion to advocate for individuals and protect their rights. She is a highly skilled litigator and mediator with extensive experience in helping families navigate complex legal issues in the most well-organized and cost-effective way possible. She works effectively with forensic accountants and psychologists when her cases require their involvement. Cathy also is proficient in preparing Premarital Agreements.

Cathy prides herself in providing her clients with highly focused attention, recognizing that they are experiencing great stress and anxiety during their divorce and/or post-divorce situations. Each client is unique to Cathy and benefits from her skills both in and out of the courtroom. Cathy also believes in giving back to her community and profession and serves as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Center For Hope & Safety, the largest nonprofit organization in Bergen County providing a broad range of services for victims and survivors of domestic violence and is a member of the Bergen County District IIA, Ethics Committee.

Where To Eat

Getting three squares a day has never been easier—Bergen County is home to a selection of restaurants diverse enough to satisfy all of your cravings.

103 Prime, Park Ridge

ALLENDALE

Allendale Bar & Grill

67 W. Allendale Ave.

201.327.3197 allendalebarandgrill.com

Allendale Steakhouse 90 W. Allendale Ave. 201.962.9797 allendalesteakhouse.com

Mezza Luna 96 W. Allendale Ave. 201.327.6556 mezzalunabistro.com

Nirvana Indian Kitchen

29 W. Allendale Ave. 201.818.2300 nirvanaindiankitchen.com

Savini

168 W. Crescent Ave. 201.760.3700 savinirestaurant.com

ALPINE

Kiku

385 Rte. 9 W. 201.767.6322 kikurestaurantsnj.com

BERGENFIELD

Bamboo Grill

54 S. Washington Ave.

201.384.5951 bamboo-grill.com

Chapala Grill 52 S. Washington Ave. 201.387.2107 chapalamexican grill.com

The Cuban Around The Corner 260 S. Washington Ave. 201.574.8600

Nihon Kai 41 S. Washington Ave. 201.384.3000 nihonkaijapanesenj.com

Tommy Fox’s Public House 32 S. Washington Ave. 201.384.0900 tommyfoxs.com

BOGOTA

Luka’s Italian Cuisine

10 River Rd. 201.440.2996 lukasitaliancuisine.co

CARLSTADT

Biggie’s

430 Rte. 17 S. 201.933.4000 biggies.com

Hunkar Restaurant

319 Hackensack St. 201.507.0606 hunkarrestaurant.com

Il Villaggio 651 Rte. 17 N. 201.935.7733 ilvillaggio.com

Upahar 326 Garden St. 201.855.7040

CLIFFSIDE PARK

354 Steakhouse 354 Lawton Ave. 201.941.0499 354steakhouse.com

Rudy’s 591 Anderson Ave. 201.943.9252

Sedona Taphouse 679 Anderson Ave. 201.943.2300 sedonataphouse.com

Villa Amalfi 793 Palisade Ave. 201.886.8626 villaamalfi.com

CLOSTER

Brasserie Mémère 107 Vervalen St. 201.660.8822 brasserie-memere.com

The Hill

252 Schraalenburgh Rd. 201.899.4700 thehillcloster.com

Lucio’s

208 Piermont Rd. 201.750.3233 luciosrestaurant.com

Sear House 411 Piermont Rd. 201.292.4612 searhousenj.com

Stern & Bow 171 Schraalenburgh Rd. 201.750.3350 sternandbow restaurant.com

CRESSKILL

Chef Mediterranean 38 Union Ave. 201.367.9565 chef-mediterranean. res-menu.com

Hanami 41 Union Ave. 201.567.8508 hanamirestaurant.com

Mami 15 E. Madison Ave. 201.266.8931 mami-hospitality.com

Samdan 178 Piermont Rd. 201.816.7343 samdanrestaurantnj.com

DEMAREST

Yasou Mykonos 134 Hardenburgh Ave. 201.768.8500 yasougreekfood.com

DUMONT

Foschini’s Brick Oven Kitchen 21 E. Madison Ave. 201.387.9998 foschinis.com

Grant Street Café 25 Grant Ave. 201.385.1705 thegrantstreetcafe.com

La Taberna 31 W. Madison Ave. 201.374.1661 latabernanj.com

Mexico Mi Amor 132 Veterans Plz. 201.244.5555 mexicomiamor.com

EAST RUTHERFORD

Al Di La 1 Hoboken Rd. 201.939.1128 aldilaitalianbistro.com

Annabella’s House of Mozzarella 900 Paterson Plank Rd. 201.804.0303 annabellasmozz.com

Blarney Station Pub 258 Park Ave. 201.531.0001 blarneystation.com

Elia Mediterranean 240 Hackensack St. 201.939.9292 elianj.com

The Roosevelt 356 Paterson Ave. 201.713.3145 theroosevelt.us

EDGEWATER

Brownstone Pancake Factory 860 River Rd. 201.945.4800 brownstonepancake factory.com

De Novo European Pub 1257 River Rd. 201.496.6161 denovoeuropean pub.com

Fleming’s Steakhouse 90 The Promenade 201.313.9463 flemingssteakhouse.com

Greek Taverna 55 The Promenade 201.945.8998 greektavernausa.com

Haven Riverfront Restaurant and Bar 2 Main St., Suite G 201.943.1900 havenedgewater.com

Original Pancake House 15 The Promenade 201.366.4065 ophedgewater.com

Rebecca’s 236 Old River Rd. 201.943.8808 rebeccasedgewater.com

River Palm Terrace 1416 River Rd. 201.224.2013 riverpalm.com

Roberto’s II 936 River Rd. 201.224.2524 robertosii.com

Seak 725 River Rd., #30 201.402.3400 seaknj.com

Tommy’s Tavern + Tap 11 The Promenade 201.386.1700 tommystavernandtap. com

ELMWOOD PARK Tiramisu Restaurante 205 Market St. 201.791.0025 tiramisumenu.com

EMERSON Pimaan Thai 79 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.967.0440 pimaanthai.com

ENGLEWOOD

Blue Akai 23 E. Palisade Ave. 201.541.0086 akailounge.com

Cassie’s 18 S. Dean St. 201.541.6760 cassiespizzeria.com

CZEN Restaurant 36 N. Van Brunt St. 201.431.9199 czenrestaurant.com

Fleming’s Steakhouse, Edgewater

Grill House of Englewood

126 Engle St. 201.541.0020 grillhouseofenglewood. com

Hummus Elite 39 E. Palisade Ave. 201.569.5600 hummuselite.com

Khao Thai Cuisine

4 E. Palisade Ave. 201.894.0344 khaothainj.com

La Fonda Paisa

95 W. Palisade Ave. 201.871.3544 lafondapaisausa.com

Lulu Mediterranean Grill

63 Nathaniel Pl. 201.569.2662 lululoungejersey.com

Noches de Colombia

90 W. Palisade Ave. 201.567.4950 nochesdecolombia.com

Pintxo y Tapas

47 N. Dean St. 201.569.9999

Sofia

36 Engle St. 201.541.8530 sofiaenglewood.com

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS

Brownstone Pancake Factory 717 E. Palisade Ave.

201.945.4800 brownstonepancake factory.com

Café Italiano 14 Sylvan Ave.

201.461.5041 cafeitaliano.net

Cliff’s Steakhouse 18 Sylvan Ave. 201.944.0233 cliffssteakhouse.com

Grissini 484 Sylvan Ave. 201.568.3535 grissinirestaurant.com

The Kalbi Korean BBQ 150 Sylvan Ave. 201.816.9300 the-kalbi.com

FAIR LAWN

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings 2101 Promenade Blvd. 201.796.2625 acfp.com

The Craftsman 1609 Maple Ave. 201.773.8985 thecraftsmannj.com

Fair Lawn Diner 13-48 River Rd. 201.791.2895 fairlawndiner.com

Oceanos Oyster

Bar & Sea Grill 2-27 Saddle River Rd. 201.796.0546 oceanosrestaurant.com

Rose’s Place 32-01 Broadway 201.475.8800 rosesplacenj.com

RP Prime Steakhouse 41-11 Rte. 4 W. 201.267.0702 rpprime.com

Sage Restaurant 17-15 Broadway 201.797.0500 sagefairlawn.com

Saigon Bistro 24-08 Fair Lawn Ave. 201.398.1883 saigonbistro.com

FAIRVIEW

Patsy’s 344 Bergen Blvd. 201.943.0627 patsysbistro.com

FORT LEE

Aquarius

230-234 Main St. 201.592.8338 aquariusrestaurant nj.com

Baggios

212 Main St. 201.585.7979 baggiospizza restaurant.com

Big Red Tomato 1205 Anderson Ave. 201.224.6500 brtnj.com

Cap’t Loui

210 Main St. 201.461.7080 captloui.com

Chillers Grill

2191 Fletcher Ave. 201.461.0075 chillersgrill.com

In Napoli 116 Main St. 201.947.2500 inapoli.com

Pho Today 2151 Lemoine Ave. 201.585.8818 eatphotoday.com

Pomodoro

795 Abbott Blvd. 201.224.0800 pomodoro1.com

Prime & Beyond

501 Main St. 201.461.0033 primeandbeyond.com

Punta Cana 2151 Lemoine Ave. 201.849.5556 puntacanarestaurante.com

Ventana’s 200 Park Ave. 201.583.4777 ventanasatthe modern.com

FRANKLIN LAKES

Harmony

Mediterranean Grill

840 Franklin Ave. 201.485.8707 harmony-nj.com

Sushi Cocoro

856 Franklin Ave. 201.560.1333 sushicocoro.com

GARFIELD

Despecho Room

361 Midland Ave. 973.928.4470 despechoroom.com

The Firehouse 42 Plauderville Ave. 973.478.2226 thefirehouse.toast.site/ order

Goodfellas 661 Midland Ave. 973.478.4000 goodfellasjersey.com

GLEN ROCK

Glen Rock Inn 222 Rock Rd. 201.445.2362 glenrockinn.com

Stone & Rail 175 Rock Rd. 201.345.0709 stoneandrail.com

Tani Sushi & Asian Grill 206 Rock Rd. 201.612.1188 taniofglenrock.com

HACKENSACK

Casual Habana Café 125 Main St. 201.880.9844 casualhabanacafe.com

The Cheesecake Factory

390 Hackensack Ave. 201.488.0330 thecheesecake factory.com

Hot Fish

450 Hackensack Ave., #6 201.881.0180 hotfishhackensack.com

Houston’s 1 Riverside Sq. 201.488.5667 houstons.com

Lido Restaurant

701 Main St. 201.487.8721 thelidorestaurant.com

Maggiano’s Little Italy

70 Riverside Square Mall 201.221.2030 maggianos.com

Morton’s The Steakhouse 1 Riverside Square, Ste. 274 201.487.1303 mortons.com

P.F. Chang’s

390 Hackensack Ave. Ste. 50 201.646.1565 pfchangs.com

Rosa Mexicano

60 Riverside Square Mall 201.489.9100 rosamexicano.com

HARRINGTON PARK

Donatella Ristorante 12 Tappan Rd. 201.767.4245 donatellasitalian. restaurant

HASBROUCK HEIGHTS

Bensi

459 Rte. 17 S. 201.727.9525 bensihh.com

The Heights Bar & Grill 163 Boulevard 201.288.9338 heightsbarandgrill.com

Himalaya on Heights 313 Boulevard 201.257.8744 himalayaonheights.com

Ivy Inn

268 Terrace Ave. 201.393.7699 ivyinn.com

Sofia’s

220 Boulevard 201.462.0123 sofiasmediterranean grill.com

Tom Yum Koong

305 Boulevard 201.288.3840 tomyumkoonghh.com

Zaffron Bloom

194 Boulevard 201.571.0029

Despecho Room, Garfield

HAWORTH

Alessandro’s 157 Terrace St. 201.385.8544 alessandrosnj.com

Andiamo 23 Hardenburgh Ave. 201.384.1551 andiamorestaurant.net

HILLSDALE

The Cornerstone 84 Broadway 201.666.8688 thecornerstonenj.com

Domani

387 Washington Ave. 201.722.8881 domanirestaurants.com

Fig & Tomato

100 Park Ave. 201.722.8880 figandtomatoeatery.com

Koon Thai Eatery 126 Broadway 551.246.3646 koonthaieatery.com

Matsu Sushi & Grill 140 Broadway 201.930.1896 matsusushibest.com

Alba Italian Grill

343 Broadway 201.664.1600 albaitaliangrill.com

HO-HO-KUS

Alt Eats Café

622 N. Maple Ave.

201.444.1300 alteatscafe.com

Catchy Café 614 N. Maple Ave. 201.445.6400 thecatchycaterer.com

Ho-Ho-Kus Inn 1 E. Franklin Tpke. 201.445.4115 hohokusinn.com

Ho-Ho-Kus Sushi Café 29 Sheridan Ave. 201.670.7677 hohokussushicafe.com

St. Eve’s 611 N. Maple Ave. 201.857.4717 stevesnj.com

LEONIA Dante’s Place 373 Broad Ave. 201.592.9071 dantesplace.com

Shumi Japanese Cuisine 354 Broad Ave. 201.272.6577 shumiomakase.com

LITTLE FERRY

Segovia Steakhouse 217 Main St. 201.814.1100 segoviasteakhouse.com

LODI

ReBar & Kitchen 132 Essex St. 201.368.8181 rebarkitchen.com

Sergio’s Missione 2 Mercer St. 973.778.4545 sergiosmissionelodi.com

LYNDHURST

Angelo’s 263 Ridge Rd. 201.939.1922

Foschini’s Brick

Oven Kitchen

298 Ridge Rd. 201.460.7600 foschinisbrickoven kitchen.com

Michael’s Riverside 528 Riverside Ave. 201.939.6333 michaelsriverside.com

Vezir

282 Ridge Rd. 201.595.0669 vezirnj.com

MAHWAH

Mahwah Bar & Grill 2 Island Rd. 201.529.8056 mahwahbarandgrill.com

Nagoya

1007 MacArthur Blvd. 201.818.9933 nagoyamahwah.com

Nonna’s 11 Franklin Tpke. 201.529.1151 nonnasmahwah.com

Novino Restaurant 64 Ramapo Valley Rd. 201.529.1900 novinonj.com

ON THE TOWN

Roxanne’s 150 Franklin Tpke. 201.529.0007 roxannes restaurant.com

RP Prime Steakhouse 209 Ramapo Valley Rd. 201.529.1111 rpprime.com

Sangria 1033 MacArthur Blvd. 201.962.3310 sangriamahwah.com

State Line Diner 375 Rte. 17 N. 201.529.3353 statelinediner.com

MAYWOOD

Angelo’s Greek Taverna 245 Maywood Ave. 201.845.4278 angelosgreektaverna.com

Maywood Inn’s Twin Door Tavern 122 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.843.8022 twindoortavern.com

Maywood Pancake House

92 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.880.7842 JUNEwoodpancake house.com

The Seafood Gourmet 103 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.843.8558 seafood-gourmet.com

MIDLAND PARK

Arturo’s 41 Central Ave. 201.444.2466 arturos.co

Fiona’s Ristorante 118 Godwin Ave. 201.857.5800 fionasristorante.com

Rosario’s Trattoria 29 Central Ave. 201.445.3335 rosariostrattoria.com

MONTVALE

Delpino Restaurant

108 Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.391.6866 delpinorestaurant.com

Bellissimo

12 S. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.746.6669 bellissimonj.com

Fire & Oak

100 Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.307.1100 fireandoak.com

Gen Sushi & Hibachi 14B Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.930.9188 gensushimontvale.com

Hearth & Tap Co.

125 N. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.307.6300 hearthandtap.com

Yuki

2 S. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.391.9877 yukimontvale.com

MOONACHIE

Bazzarelli

117 Moonachie Rd. 201.641.4010 bazzarellirestaurant.com

Bistro 107 107 Moonachie Rd. 201.440.3339 bistro107nj.com

Segovia

150 Moonachie Rd. 201.641.4266 segoviarestaurant.com

NEW MILFORD

Barrel & Brew 872 River Rd. 201.483.3329 barrelandbrews.com

Casual Habana Café 200 Main St. 201.576.0400 casualhabanacafe.com

Sanzari’s New Bridge Inn 105 Old New Bridge Rd. 201.692.7700 sanzaris.com

NORTHVALE

Biddy O’Malley’s 191 Paris Ave. 201.564.7893 biddyomalleys.com

The Greek Village 254 Livingston St. 201.750.8570 greekvillagenj.com

Olar Noso 493 Tappan Rd. 201.402.9355 olarnoso.com

OAKLAND Cenzino 589 Ramapo Valley Rd. 201.337.6693 cenzinos.com

Trovato’s Due 4 Barbara Ln. 201.337.0813 trovatosduenj.com

Yuki 350 Ramapo Valley Rd. 201.337.8889 yuki-oakland.com

ORADELL

Oak House 2 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.277.4892 oakhousenj.com

Ora 304 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.267.4304 orainthedell.com

OLD TAPPAN

Bosfa Italian Restaurant 183 Old Tappan Rd. 201.649.8730 bosfaitalian restaurant.com

Ramen Factory 216 Old Tappan Rd. 201.383.0510 ramenfactorynj.com

PALISADES PARK

So Moon Nan Jip 238 Broad Ave. 201.944.3998 so-moon-nan-jip.com

PARAMUS

Biagio’s Ristorante 299 Paramus Rd. 201.652.0201 biagios.com

The Capital Grille 1 Garden State Plz. 201.845.7040 thecapitalgrille.com

Grand Lux Café

1 Garden State Plz. 201.909.0399 grandluxcafe.com

Kiku

365 Rte. 17 S. 201.265.7200 kikurestaurantsnj.com

Mantra

275 Rte. 4 W. 201.342.8868 mantranj.com

Suburban Diner 172 Rte. 17 N. 201.261.2605 suburbandiner17.com

PARK RIDGE

103 Prime 103 Spring Valley Rd. 201.391.2220 103prime.com

The Park Steakhouse 151 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.930.1300 theparksteakhouse.com

Peppercorns 176 Colony Ave. 201.391.2818 peppercorns176.com

Ridge Diner 125 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.391.4242 ridgediner.com

RAMSEY

Anthony Franco’s 128 E. Main St. 201.236.8000 afpizza.com

Brady’s at the Station

5-7 W. Main St. 201.327.9748 bradysramsey.com

Café Panache

130 E. Main St. 201.934.0030 cafepanachenj.com

Kinchley’s Tavern 586 N. Franklin Tpke. 201.934.7777 kinchleyspizza.com

The Shannon Rose 1200 Rte. 17 201.962.7602 theshannonrose.com

Smyrna 21 E. Main St. 201.934.7990 smyrnacaferamsey.com

Tawara 53 W. Main St. 201.825.8712 tawarajapanese restaurant.com

Varka Estiatorio

30 N. Spruce St. 201.995.9333 varkarestaurant.com

RIDGEFIELD

Café Tivoli

533 Shaler Blvd.

201.941.5561 cafetivoli.com

Karden 630 Broad Ave. 201.699.0988 karden630.com

RIDGEFIELD PARK

MK Valencia

228 Main St.

201.373.0228 mkvalencia restaurant.com

Sparta Taverna

206 Main St. 201.296.0095 spartataverna.com

RIDGEWOOD

Bukhara Grill

37 Chestnut St. 201.444.4910 bukharagrillnj.com

Cafe 37

37 S. Broad St. 201.857.0437 cafe-37.com

Cravings Tapas Bistro

8 Wilsey Sq. 201.857.8533 cravingstapas.com

Felina

18 Prospect St. 551.276.5454 bylandmark.com/felina

Kimchi Smoke

BBQ Shack

2 Godwin Ave.

201.447.6653 kimchismoke.com

La Lanterna

29 W. Ridgewood Ave.

201.444.5520 lalanternaof ridgewood.com

Latour

6 E. Ridgewood Ave.

201.445.5056 latourridgewood.com

Meltemi Greek Restaurant

21 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.632.0022 meltemirestaurant.com

Pardis Persian Grill

47 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.652.8000 pardispersiangrill.com

Park West Tavern 30 Oak St. 201.445.5400 parkwesttavern.com

Raymond’s 101 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.445.5125 raymondsnj.com

Roots Steakhouse 17 Chestnut St. 201.444.1922 rootssteakhouse.com

S. Egidio 17 N. Broad St. 201.389.3525 segidiopizza.com

Steel Wheel Tavern 51 N. Broad St. 201.882.1800 steelwheeltavern.com

Village Green 36 Prospect St. 201.445.2914 villagegreen restaurant.com

White Maple Café 47 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.345.9538 whitemaplecafe.com

RIVER EDGE

Mado Restaurant 570 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.265.3629 madorestaurant. business.site

Sanducci’s 620 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.599.0600 sanduccis.com

RIVER VALE

Ammata Thai Kitchen 184 Rivervale Rd., Suite 2 201.664.2299 ammata.com

Armando’s Grill 688 Westwood Ave. 201.722.5820 armandostuscangrill.com

ROCHELLE PARK

Nanni 53 W. Passaic St. 201.843.1250 nanni.com

RUTHERFORD

Finch’s 801 Rutherford Ave. 201.231.3141 finchsdining.com

Fiorentini 98 Park Ave. 973.721.3404 fiorentinirest.com

Matisse 167 167 Park Ave. 201.935.2995 matisse167.com

Paisano’s 132 Park Ave. 201.935.5755 paisanos.com

Volare’s 7 Station Sq. 201.935.6606 volaresrestaurant.com

SADDLE BROOK

Midland Brew House 374 N. Midland Ave. 201.797.0070 midlandbrewhouse.com

Que Pasta

326 Market St. 201.712.1900 qpitalian.com

The Plank Pizza Co. Beer Parlor 383 Market St. 201.843.2426 ppcbp.com

SADDLE RIVER

The Saddle River Inn 2 Barnstable Ct. 201.825.4016 saddleriverinn.com

TEANECK

Amarone

63 Cedar Ln. 201.833.1897 amaroneristorante.net

B V Tuscany

368 Cedar Ln. 201.287.0404 bvtuscany.com

Etc. Steakhouse 1409 Palisade Ave. 201.357.5677 etcsteakhouse.com

Noah’s Ark 493 Cedar Ln. 201.692.1200 noahsark.net

Sweet T’s

166 W. Englewood Ave. 201.942.3030 sweettseatery.com

Zina’s Steakhouse & Grill 827 Teaneck Rd. 201.357.2479 zinassteakhouse.com

TENAFLY

Axia Taverna 18 Piermont Rd. 201.569.5999 axiataverna.com

Brasserie 4 Washington St. 201.266.6400 tenaflybrasserie.com

Sayola

50 Prospect Ter. 201.871.2182 sayolarestaurantnj.com

TPR Restaurant

38 W. Railroad Ave. 201.871.0444 tprrestaurant.com

WALDWICK

Andrea’s Ristorante 20 E. Prospect St. 201.670.0275 andreasrestaurantnj.com

Limoncello 32 Franklin Tpke. 201.652.5577 limoncellonj.com

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

Bacari Grill 800 Ridgewood Rd. 201.358.6330 bacarigrill.com

Kimchi Smoke Barbecue, Westwood

WESTWOOD Bon 487 Broadway 201.238.2371 bonwestwood.com

Downtown Dhaba 266 Center Ave. 201.664.0123 dhabadowntown.com

Farmhouse Café & Eatery 301 Center Ave. 201.664.8424 farmhousecafenj.com

Granita Grille 467 Broadway 201.664.9846 granitagrille restaurant.com

Kimchi Smoke Barbecue 57 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.321.7996 kimchismoke.com

Mezza 22 Jefferson Ave. 201.722.8822 mezzawestwood.com

Osteria Crescendo 36 Jefferson Ave. 201.722.1900 osteriacrescendo.com

The Tavern @ Iron Horse 20 Washington Ave. 201.666.9682 thetavernwestwood.com

Toba 250 Center Ave. 201.359.8497 tobarestaurant.com

WOOD-RIDGE

Al Chile 187 Hackensack St. 862.334.3616 alchilenj.com

Concourse Club

379 Rte. 17 S. 201.710.6459 concourseclubnj.com

Nelmani Indian Cuisine 200 Hackensack St. 201.728.4044 nelmaniwoodridge.com

The Ridge House 191 Valley Blvd. 973.939.5608 theridgehousenj.com

WYCKOFF Aldo’s 640 Wyckoff Ave. 201.891.2618 aldosofwyckoff.com

Benares

327 Franklin Ave., Suite 4 201.904.2222 benaresnj.com

Blue Moon Café

327 Franklin Ave. 201.891.1331 bluemoonmexican cafe.com

T.S. Ma 637 Wyckoff Ave. 201.891.8878 tsmachinesecuisine.com

Wyckoff Thai 314 Franklin Ave. 201.485.8855 wyckoffthai.com

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Thai Tradition Shines

Churod Thai Kitchen brings vibrant flavors, warm hospitality and thoughtful service to Bogota.

Way before Anthony Bourdain opened our collective culinary eyes, the Asian dining scene here and throughout the region was largely defined by Chinese and Japanese restaurants. Diners today, however, are increasingly embracing the vibrant flavors of cuisines such as Thai, Korean and Vietnamese. That’s great news for adventurous eaters, but it also presents a challenge. While more restaurants are opening their doors, finding one that delivers consistently excellent food, warm hospitality and a memorable experience can still feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

That’s exactly why we were excited to visit Churod Thai Kitchen in Bogota. We had heard glowing recommendations from friends and fellow foodies, so we decided to try it for ourselves on a quiet night in June.

Churod made a strong first impression from the moment we walked in. The space was both cozy and stylish, and the aroma of the food— thanks to an open kitchen—seemed to pull us in even further. Equally impressive was the hospitality. The staff was warm and attentive, making us feel more like welcomed guests than customers.

We began our meal with two appetizers that showcased the kitchen’s range. The chicken satay arrived perfectly grilled, tender and juicy with just the right amount of char. It wasn’t overly seasoned either, making it a delight on its own or with the accompanying plum sauce and cucumber vinegar dip. The order came with three skewers, an ideal amount for two to share.

Our second starter, miang kam, offered a completely different experience—and may have been the evening’s most intriguing bite. This traditional Thai appetizer invites diners to assemble small wraps using delicate betel leaves filled with an assortment of ingredients that creates an explosion of flavors and textures. Sweet, savory, tangy and herbal notes all seemed to arrive at once, somehow working together in perfect harmony. Personally, my taste buds rejoiced when they detected ginger and shrimp paste. Like the satay, the miang kam was a light bite—but we still reminded ourselves to save room for the rest of the meal.

And it was a good thing we did. For my entrée, I selected the duck curry from the chef’s specials menu. Rich, fragrant and beautifully balanced, it was everything a great Thai curry should be. The duck was exceptionally tender, surrendering to the fork at the slightest touch, and the skin had an extraordinary crispness. The curry, meanwhile, delivered layers of flavor rather than overwhelming heat. (Don’t get me wrong; it is spicy.) It’s a dish that rewards slow appreciation, though I’ll admit I wasn’t always successful in slowing down.

My girlfriend chose the branzino with mango salad, which was impressive both visually and on the palate. The fish was expertly prepared and flaky with a crisp exterior that added just the right amount of texture. The accompanying mango salad brought brightness and freshness to every bite, creating a wonderful contrast to the richness of the fish. The sweet fruit, vibrant vegetables and lively seasonings transformed the dish from simply well-executed seafood into something memorable. My companion’s only quibble: Having the option of either fried or grilled fish would’ve been preferred. By this point, we were comfortably full and could have called it a night. And maybe we should have. But we didn’t.

For dessert, we shared the ice cream boraan, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of the meal. Combining creamy coconut ice cream with traditional Thai influences (warm mango sticky rice, coconut shred and jackfruit, for instance), the dessert offered a refreshing finish that was indulgent but not heavy. We (I) briefly discussed ordering a second one, which is generally the highest compliment any dessert can receive.

What makes Churod Thai Kitchen stand out isn’t just the quality of the food—although that’s certainly reason enough to visit. It’s the complete package. The thoughtful preparation, the welcoming atmosphere, the attentive service and the kitchen’s respect for authentic Thai flavors all come together to create a dining experience that feels special without ever feeling pretentious.

—Darius Amos

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A USNWR Regional Best and Best Value school, FDU is committed to affordability and a personal approach to learning. FDU’s innovative and interdisciplinary programs, led by the division of FDU Health, include nationally recognized programs spanning nursing, allied health, psychology, pharmacy and health sciences. FDU offers career-connected programs in business, hospitality, sport management, engineering, cybersecurity, education and more, as well as accelerated credit programs for HS students. FDU is NJ’s largest private university with 3 campuses, 100+ majors, and D1 & D3 NCAA athletics.

Recognized repeatedly as the Best Private School in Bergen County, Immaculate Heart Academy prepares its students for a lifetime of positive contributions to society. Our impressive young women learn in an atmosphere that encourages academic excellence, artistic immersion, athletic competition, Christian service, and enduring sisterhood. IHA’s unmatched educational experience offers an extensive curriculum that includes more than 25 AP courses; a robust extracurricular offering of more than 80 different clubs and 17 athletic teams; and a foundation in Christian service. Visit ihanj.com and find out why you belong @theheart!

Introduce your child to a community they can grow with into adulthood. We weave our core values—honesty, respect, caring, and responsibility—into all our programming and understand that the essential life skills learned today create a strong foundation for tomorrow’s successes! We offer flexible schedules with a curriculum built around STEM, language skills, music, art, and more. Our facility provides a one-of-a-kind learning environment with time in our exercise studios, gymnasium, playground, and indoor pool. Full and half day options are available as well as before and after care. A YMCA household membership is included with enrollment. Financial Aid available. Ages 2.5-5.

Saddle River Day School provides a robust curriculum that inspires students to achieve personal and academic excellence. Lower School

HAPPENINGS

Be There

Beat summer’s dog days with outdoor movies, cultural festivals, challenging races—and much more.

THROUGH

AUG. 12

Stop by the Rutherford Public Library, where the special American 250 “REVOLUTIONARY LIVES” Traveling Exhibit is on display. Sponsored by RevolutionNJ, this exhibit explores how the Revolutionary War impacted the lives of everyday New Jersey residents at the time—and how that connects to the present day. See it during regular library hours, starting at 10 a.m. For more, visit bergen250.com.

AUG. 8

Lace up your sneakers and head over to Closter for the INTERSTATE 17 RUN, one of the most challenging and rewarding of its kind in the region. This 17-mile trail run will take you across 5,000 feet of elevation change with views of stunning cliffs, streams and the Hudson River. The race starts at 8 a.m. Find registration info at runsignup.com.

AUG. 8–9

Tenafly Nature Center’s always-popular SEASONAL SCAVENGER HUNT returns for even more family fun in the woods! Teams will collect a printed set of clues and independently solve nature-themed riddles along the center’s trails to complete the hunt. It’s a great way for your family to work as a team and enjoy the outdoors. The fun kicks off at 1 p.m. For registration and more information, stop by tncnj.org.

AUG. 11

AUG. 11

Want to solve a mystery and help save the day? The Mahwah Library is hosting a FAMILY ESCAPE ROOM, which challenges you to help uncover secrets and recover a missing fossil from the “Museum of Unnatural History.” This event matches the library’s summer reading theme, “Unearth A Story.” Children must be registered with an adult. Registration is required. For more, see mahwahlibrary.org.

Grab a beach chair and a blanket and head over to Memorial Field in Washington Township, where you can see a free OUTDOOR COMMUNITY CONCERT Rock out to the best of the ’70s with Super Trans Am, a high-energy tribute band that brings the decade’s biggest hits to life. The music starts at 6 p.m. See twpofwashington.us for more.

AUG. 11

How about some friendly competition to spice up your Tuesday? Bergenfield’s Tommy Fox’s Tavern & Tap hosts its weekly TRIVIA NIGHT WITH JOE TRIVIA! This is the perfect opportunity to gather your friends and show off your knowledge—or square off against them and prove you’re the quizmaster. The fun starts at 7 p.m. Tommyfoxs.com has the latest info.

AUG. 27

AUG. 14

Football is almost here, and that means it’s time for the preseason. Check out the stalwart NEW YORK JETS take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. Kick-off is set for 7 p.m. This is a chance to see new tricks and players while getting a taste for what this season might hold. For tickets, see metlifestadium.com.

AUG. 15–16

The annual celebration of Filipino American culture returns to the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford. Stop by FIESTA IN AMERICA, the largest event of its kind on the East Coast. You’re in for a day of great food, incredible music, an international vendor market (and lots of community cheer). The fun starts at 11 a.m. each day. For more information, head over to philippinefiestausa.com.

AUG. 19

Want to see the stars up close? You can, at the WILLIAM D. MCDOWELL OBSERVATORY

Operated by the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA) in Lyndhurst, the observatory allows visitors to peek through a research-grade classicalCassegrain telescope that can magnify objects millions of light years away. Viewing starts at 8 p.m. See njsea.com for more details and call 201.460.4001 for the most up-to-date operating status.

21–23

Social media star and comedian KEVIN HERRERA stops by the Bananas Comedy Club in Rutherford for five shows over three nights. Boasting 1.8 million TikTok supporters and 1 million Instagram followers, Herrera is known for his everyman charm and unfiltered style, bringing his experiences from seven years as a law enforcement officer in New City for a show that’s both hilarious. Multiple showtimes are available. For times and tickets, see bananas comedyclub. com.

How about a classic movie under the night sky to close out the month? At Atlantic Street Park in Hackensack, the Hackensack Performing Arts Center presents a screening of ROCKY, part of its Movies Under the Stars series. Come check out of the greatest sports movies of all time, which tells the story of an underdog doing the impossible. The show will start around 8:30 p.m.; bring your own chairs and blankets. For more, head over to hacpac.org.

AUG. 30

Cool cars, delicious food, great company—find all of that and more at Mahwah’s annual FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL AND CAR SHOW Stop by Mahwah’s municipal building from noon to 6 p.m. for all of the fun, including some amazing classic and vintage autos. Visit mahwahtwp.org for more details.

Gatherings

1. LEE PARK FOUNDATION

Lee Park Foundation recently announced the three Holy Name Medical Center recipients of the Lotus Award for Nursing and Clinical Care. This year’s recipients are Erin Davis, Katarina Sadlon and Nura Shehadeh, who were selected for their dedication to patients and their impact on the broader community.

2-3. CHRISTIAN HEALTH

Christian Health in Wyckoff held its annual spring gala at the Westmount Country Club in Woodland Park. Nearly 400 guests attended in support of Heritage Manor East’s Capital Campaign, a transformative initiative to reimagine senior care with a focus on dignity, comfort and connection.

4-5. WANDELL SCHOOL

The Wandell School Education Foundation Gala took place early this spring at the Saddle River Inn. With the theme “secret garden,” the event helped raise funding to support the educational goals of the elementary school in Saddle River.

6. JUNIOR LEAGUE OF BERGEN COUNTY

The Junior League of Bergen County held its 2025-26 dinner at Aldo’s Restaurant in Wyckoff. All members celebrated the end of their League year, in which they advanced women’s leadership for community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training.

7. FOOD BRIGADE

Dumont-based nonprofit Food Brigade hosted a team from Jaguar Land Rover North America in Mahwah. The guests learned about the state of food insecurity in New Jersey, what’s being done at the state level by New Jersey Office of the Food Security Advocate, and the background and operations of the

8. HOLY NAME MEDICAL CENTER

Mike Maron, Holy Name Medical Center president & CEO, and David Butler, OB/GYN, were honored by NJBIZ business journal. The two were noted as New Jersey trailblazers whose leadership, innovation and dedication continue to make a lasting impact across the state and within the community.

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A BERGEN MOMENT

“This was taken on a small pond in the Shadow Lake section of Franklin Lakes. I see a wide variety of birds because of that pond, and the wetlands adjacent. Several times, we’ve had a pair of swans there. Unfortunately, last summer, one of them went missing. They are very devoted to their mates, so it was sad to see this one lonely swan.”

—Jackie

Makoujy, Franklin Lakes

Photo courtesy of Jackie Makoujy