Tenafly August 2025 by Wainscot Media

MAKING

GREAT SCENTS

PERFUMER

STEVEN CLAISSE

DREAM

TEAMWORK

SOFTBALLERS

WIN GOLD

From Struggle to Strength

JACKIE GOLDSCHNEIDER

Perfumer Steven Claisse talks his career, great scents and why he will never leave Tenafly.

Reality star Jackie Goldschneider didn’t expect to heal on national television, but her recovery story inspired millions, including herself.

This local softball team overcame challenges and hit a home run.

A SUMMER WIND DOWN

AS SUMMER BEGINS its gentle descent, we’re savoring every golden hour here in Tenafly—and this issue is a celebration of the vibrant people who make our town shine.

Our August Spotlight turns to Jackie Goldschneider, a name you may recognize from The Real Housewives of New Jersey. But behind the reality TV persona is a former lawyer and the powerful voice behind “The Weight of Beautiful,”

her candid and courageous memoir. Her story is a testament to resilience, self-worth and reinvention—and we’re proud to share it.

We’re thrilled to feature an exclusive interview with Steven Claisse, VP Senior Perfumer at Takasago International. Claisse offers us a rare look into the artistry of fragrance creation and how his work blends science and imagination into something truly magical.

We’re also honoring hometown hero Judie Perry: a beloved crossing guard in Tenafly who has retired after decades of dedication and daily waves. Generations of families know and love this smiling face—and this month, we tip our hats in gratitude.

Finally, meet Melissa Gomez, a Tenafly mom and coach whose 5th and 6th grade girls’ softball team recently won a league championship. Her passion, leadership and commitment to empowering young athletes embody the spirit of our community.

Whether you’re flipping pages poolside or catching a few quiet moments before the back-to-school rush, we hope this issue reminds you of the exceptional people right here at home.

Gina Palmieri Publisher

MAGAZINE

Publisher Gina Palmieri

Local Editor

Jenna Demmer

Writers

Jenny Jackson

Julie Marallo

Gabrielle Walters

Michael Pilla

Danielle Sherman-Lazar

Photographers

Brady Sansotta

Damian Castillo

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman

Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

VP, Group Publisher, Regional

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Executive Editor

Richard Laliberte

Associate Editor

Sophia Carlisle

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager

Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

Tenafly magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Tenafly, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Local Happenings

Community events, attractions and opportunities from the Tenafly Chamber of Commerce

BY JENNY JACKSON

WHAT. A. SUMMER, Tenafly! With epic gatherings and even long shaking thunder rolls, summer 2025 has been one for the books. Together we continue to create the Tenafly we want to experience. Let’s keep that going!

Have you noticed the yellow flowers planted around town? With the help of Root 17 Mobile Nursery and Tenafly

Garden Club, The Tenafly Chamber of Commerce kicked off plantings all over town in honor of Edan Alexander. We couldn’t be more thrilled that these were all planted as Alexander drove into town, and we hope you’ve all had a chance to enjoy the great effort by our Tenafly DPW and the Tenafly Downtown Committee. Want to bring planting to your next event? Contact Hai Shabo, owner of Root 17.

Come groove in Huyler Park at the Tenafly 2025 Summer Concert Series. Picnic in the park with take out from Mel’s Butcher Box or Pizza Nova: Ask for the concert night options!

• 8/5 Saron Crenshaw: One of the best local blues rock shows you’ll find in the area!

• 8/ 7 Rock out to Kanak with some hard driving punk power pop.

• 8/12 Welcome Funk Yeah! to the stage for some old school funk and R&B.

• 8/19 Claire Mahoney and The Great Adventure brings rock, opera and everything in between.

• 8/21 Beyonce bassist and funk rapper Divinity Roxx returns to the stage.

• 8/26 A jam band middle east dance party will take over Huyler Park with Soul Farm

Have you checked out the new farmer’s market? Visit Spring House every Wednesday between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for the freshest local produce, vibrant flowers and more!

Jenny Jackson serves as the Tenafly Chamber of Commerce President and Tenafly Downtown Committee Co-President. She believes in the power of business as a channel for positive impact.

Our growing community of over 70 business organizations are actively contributing to the improvement of Tenafly. If you would like to join the Tenafly Chamber of Commerce, not only are you investing in your own business, you are contributing to the betterment of our town. Visit Tenaflychamber.org/about to learn more about membership.

Remember to shop the shops and dine local to keep our community strong and vibrant!

Cheers, Jenny

Farewell to the Heart of the Crosswalk

BY DANIELLE SHERMAN-LAZAR

INTERVIEW WITH JUDIE

PERRY

MORNINGS AREN’T EASY in our house. We’re stuck in a rush as our children get ready, but as we inch closer to school, something shifts. We see Judie Perry—and she greets us with that familiar sparkle in her eyes and a voice full of joy: “Happy, happy Monday! Have the happiest day!” Just like that, the tension melts. Our hearts soften and our moods lift because Judie has that kind of magic.

If your child goes to Maugham School, you know Judie Perry, and to know her is to love her. For the past 28 years, she’s stood at the corner of Sisson Terrace and Magnolia—a bright spot in the morning and after school rush, a steady presence through changing seasons.

Judie is sunshine on the rainiest of days, but she’s more than just a crossing guard. She’s part of our village. A constant reminder that kindness— simple, sincere kindness—can change everything. She’s not just retiring. She’s leaving behind a legacy stitched together by morning smiles, gentle words and small acts of kindness that changed lives more than she will ever know.

Judie Perry has retired after 28 years of brightening days as a crossing guard here in Tenafly.

Do you remember your very first day on the job?

Oh yes, I thought I was dropped in the soup. All of these crossing guards now have training. I had nothing. They told me to report on this corner and there would be a police man up to help me. There was nobody. It was scary.

What inspired you to become a crossing guard?

I was working part-time at a bank when they started talking about cutting our hours.

I wasn’t sure what I was going to do. My mom had been a crossing guard here in Tenafly for nearly 35 years, and suggested, ‘Why not become a crossing guard too? You could do it before heading to the bank.’ There was an opening on the corner of Sisson and Magnolia. I said, ‘Yeah, I’ll take it.’ And that’s how it all began.

Right: Judie and her husband David in Trafalgar Square in 1975. Sadly, David passed away in 1979 when their son was three years old.

What is your favorite memory as a crossing guard?

One of my favorite memories will be the morning hugs. When the kids wrap their arms around me, it warms my heart. These kids are truly special.

Also, watching them grow. I’ve seen some of them go from shy little kindergarteners to confident fifth graders. Then they move on to middle school, high school, college and even after they’ve graduated—they still come back to say ‘hi.’

It’s a gift to be a part of their lives in this way. It really is the most wonderful job.

What do you enjoy when you’re not working?

Reading, my animals, tennis and The Rolling Stones. I also am passionate about fostering cats and kittens.

What are you looking forward to most about retirement? Not having to stand out in the cold!

But there’s one thing for certain, Judie’s warmth will be missed during those cold months.

Danielle Sherman-Lazar is a Tenafly resident, author and mother of four.

Judie poses at MetLife before a Stones concert.

Are you making a decision about where Mom should live? Are you concerned about Dad driving? We can help.* www.seniorcareauthority.com/newjersey

Living On ThEdge transforms homes and workspaces through luxury staging, Feng Shui and Aging in Place design - curating soulful, safe and market-ready settings.

Senior Living and Care Solutions

Call Us First for Expert Advice: (201) 564-7997

*In most cases, there is no fee for our assisted living placement service.

Marie Judith Joseph

Founder of Living On ThEdge, LLC

giudittama5@icloud.com (347)350-2602

www.mariegiudittallc.com  @thespacestrategist

DIRECTORY OF SPONSORS

The Kaplen JCC on the Palisades

The JCC is also proud to offer extensive, highquality programs and services to adults of all ages, as well as to seniors and individuals with special needs. Our 185,000 square foot building plus acres of outside grounds feature two fitness centers, an indoor and outdoor aquatics center, group exercise, spin and Pilates studios, two gymnasiums, tennis and racquet courts, indoor track, a luxurious spa, multiple playgrounds and fields and so much more.

201.569.7900

www.jccotp.org @kaplenjcc

Senior Care

We’re Certified Senior Advisors helping families find ideal senior living options—usually free—and guide sensitive conversations like when it’s time to retire from driving. 201.564.7997

www.seniorcareauthority.com/locations/new-jersey/ davids@seniorcareauthority.com

Stacy Esser

Since 2010, SEG has been a top team in Tenafly and Northern New Jersey—#1 for homes over $1.5M, trusted by buyers and maximizing seller value with our proprietary Value-Up™ Method. 201.894.8004

www.topnjrealtor.com @stacyessergroup

Farkas Plastic Surgery

Farkas Plastic Surgery and Med Spa offers expert cosmetic surgery, aesthetic treatments, and personalized care, enhancing natural beauty with advanced, safe and innovative techniques.

201.587.4961

www.jpfarkasmd.com @farkasplasticsurgeryandspa

Making Scents Out of the Good Life in Tenafly

Perfumer Steven Claisse explains his career path, what brought him to Tenafly and why he will never leave.

BY MICHAEL PILLA

F“FRAGRANCE IS my world,” says perfumer and longtime Tenafly resident Steven Claisse, but spend a few minutes with him, and you’ll find Tenafly ranks just as high. “I’ve been here since 1994—it’s the best place I’ve ever lived.” Like many, Claisse moved to Tenafly to raise a family and be closer to work, but he found much more here.

His fragrance career began at 18 behind the Aramis counter at Bambergers. A friend tipped him off to an apprentice lab tech opening at Alpine Aromatics, which creates scents for personal care products. “I got the job, but didn’t know much. It paid $130 a week—I felt like a millionaire,” he says.

Under Chief Perfumer Emil Buongiorno, Claisse immersed himself in the world of fragrance. In his spare time, he collected scent samples and studied the craft. After six years, he earned the American Society of Perfumers’ Apprentice of the Year Award, which included a trip to Grasse, France, the heart of the perfume world.

While there, he met Edmond Roudnitska, creator of Dior’s Eau Sauvage and Diorissimo. “He was incredibly generous with his time. I wish I had kept that connection.”

Back in the U.S., Claisse’s boss nudged him toward his next

chapter—Robertet, a fragrance and flavor company. In 1986, he and his wife Nicole relocated to Los Angeles, where he assumed the role of Director of Fragrance Development at Felton. “That’s where I honed my skills in perfumery and marketing.”

SCENTS OF BELONGING

“I’ve worked on everything from shampoo, candles and detergents to air fresheners. I love the challenge of translating fragrance across categories—what works as perfume, body wash or room spray,” he says. “We analyze market trends. What does Gen Z or Gen X want? A client might ask for a fruity body wash, and we build from there.”

Later, he joined Manheimer, a small fragrance division of a health company in Long Island City. As Executive VP, he helped grow it into one of the industry’s biggest names. The Claisses lived in Manalapan, New Jersey, but after the company moved to Teterboro, they relocated to Tenafly—where they’ve stayed ever since.

For the last 12 years, Claisse has worked at Takasago, a century-old Japanese fragrance and flavors company with offices in 26 countries. He has also twice served as the president of the American Society of Perfumers.

“Did I tell you that we love Tenafly? My kids went to Tenafly Schools from middle school through high school. My daughter, Danielle, was a tennis champion. Her basketball team was inducted into the Tenafly High School hall of fame. My son, Zack, also played just about every sport,” Claisse exclaims. “The taxes are high, but it’s worth it!”

His wife taught at the Palisades Country Day School and Camp in Closter for 25 years. “Whatever I achieved pales by comparison. She influenced so many young minds.

They still approach her when we’re out,” he says proudly.

BUILDING COMMUNITY

An avid golfer, Claisse joined the Montammy Country Club. Utilizing his business experience, he served on the Board for 14 years, including as president during the Great Recession. It was a tough time for the club: membership and revenue were down.

“I had a great board supporting me. We cut salaries, cut services and made some hard decisions, but we

Left: Claisse poses with his wife Nicole and son Zachary (middle) on Zachary’s wedding day.

saved the club. We built $400,000 in reserves, members started returning and we stabilized the situation. The Wall Street Journal even covered it,” he says.

Unfortunately, due to several back surgeries, Claisse had to hang up his golf clubs. He had been the Club Champion seven years in a row. In appreciation, Montammy made him an honorary member for life. Now, his daughter continues the tradition, winning the club’s tennis championship four years in a row. During her last pregnancy, she was

in training until two days before delivery. “A tough kid,” Claisse says proudly.

His son, Zack, is married and lives in New York City with his wife. His daughter Danielle has two children. She, her husband and the kids live in Alpine. Claisse and his wife are happy to be built-in babysitters. “It’s a gift to truly be such a big part of their lives,” Claisse says.

“Every day, I come home to my gorgeous house, my vacation from the rest of the world. The people here are so friendly and family-oriented.

We’re fortunate to have moved to a block like Forest Road. I remember when we were a young family and our kids played in the yards, now I see new kids playing in those same yards,” Claisse sums up. “We will be here forever.”

Michael Pilla is a branding/digital marketing creative director, the founder of Pilla Creative Marketing and the author of “You Oughta Be in Business. A Humorous Guide for the Self-Employed.”

From Struggle to Strength

How Tenafly resident Jackie Goldschneider went from law and local life to reality TV and recovery.

BY GABRIELLE WALTERS

YYOU MAY KNOW Jackie Goldschneider from “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” (RHONJ), but this longtime Tenafly resident has built a multifaceted career that reaches far beyond reality television. With experience as a lawyer, writer and now an advocate, Goldschneider has always felt called to use her voice and platform for meaningful impact.

Before settling in Tenafly, Goldschneider lived in Manhattan with her husband, working as a lawyer specializing in mergers and acquisitions, later transitioning into divorce and real estate law. As her family began to grow, she realized that life in the city was no longer

suitable. She began searching for a home in the suburbs, close enough for her husband to commute to work but spacious enough to raise a family.

“We loved Tenafly. The houses were beautiful, the schools had a great reputation, and I had a few friends who connected me to people in town,” says Goldschneider. With four young children and a busy household, commuting to New York City to practice law was impractical, so Goldschneider decided to pivot to another passion of hers: writing. She began writing a parenting column for The Suburbanite and quickly grew a following. From there, she began writing articles for 201 Magazine,

The Bergen Record, Huffington Post, Scary Mommy, Good Housekeeping and more.

A LIFE-CHANGING MESSAGE

In 2018, Goldschneider had a small following on an Instagram account @minivanmusings, which she had started to promote her column. While sitting in her minivan and scrolling through her phone, Goldschneider received an unexpected Facebook message that would soon change the trajectory of her life. A casting director from RHONJ wanted to speak with her.

Initially hesitant, she considered ignoring the message. However,

something told her to say yes. “I’ve always been the type of person who likes to say yes until I know something’s not for me. I believe in doing things that scare you and taking chances,” she shares.

Goldschneider poses with her children and husband. From left to right: Jonas, Alexis, Jackie, Evan, Adin and Hudson Goldschneider.

how long I would live.”

She contacted the producers of RHONJ and told them she was ready to recover and that she wanted to do so publicly. “I could never stop when it was only me holding myself accountable, so I figured if the whole world was watching, there was no way I could fail,” she explains. She was determined to show viewers that they too could overcome an eating disorder.

Goldschneider’s on-air recovery became a defining moment of her time on the show, and more importantly, a defining moment in her life. “It was the greatest gift the show gave me,” she says.

BACK TO HER WRITING ROOTS

Next thing she knew, she was a cast member on RHONJ. “My life was really just writing from home and being a mom. I had my Tenafly friends, and I lived a very local life. Being on a TV show never even crossed my mind,” she says. Once she joined the cast, everything changed.

A HIDDEN STRUGGLE

While Goldschneider’s new life as a reality TV star appeared glamorous, she was quietly battling an eating disorder that had taken over her life since 2003. Her anorexia was affecting her health in serious ways.

“My entire life was dedicated to being thin and staying thin,” she admits. By 2021, she hit a breaking point. “I realized that if I didn’t stop now, I probably never would. I didn’t know

Once deep into her recovery, Goldschneider began writing the book she wished she had during her darkest days. “The Weight of Beautiful” offers readers a look at how eating disorders start and how to break free. When she shared the story of her struggles, Goldschneider was met with love. Her inbox flooded with messages of support. Sharing her story sparked honest conversations about a taboo topic, and fans began reaching out to share their own experiences and asking for help. Today, she continues to advocate for eating disorder awareness, working closely with the National Eating Disorders Association and last year hosted their annual gala.

A LOOK AHEAD

Today, Goldschneider is living a life she’s proud of. She continues to use her platform for good as she fights anti-semitism and works with Holocaust memorials and organizations. She is busy with mom life, as she guides her four

children through the Tenafly school system. This summer, she is writing her second book, a novel. She also hosts an iHeart radio podcast, Two Jersey Js, with her RHONJ cast member Jennifer Fessler, where they spill on menopause, motherhood, making the most out of your 40s and 50s and more.

When she’s not working or with her family, Goldschneider loves dining with friends and having a cocktail at Tenafly staple, Spring House.

“I love Tenafly. I feel fortunate that we chose a town where everyone in my family is thriving, and we have amazing friends. It’s been great.”

Gabrielle Walters is a Tenafly Resident and small business owner. You can find her wellness products in multiple stores across Bergen County.

Left: Goldschneider appeared on Fox 5 New York to discuss her book, “The Weight of Beautiful.”

Victory Through Teamwork

How this Tenafly team grew through their challenges and took home the gold.

BY GABRIELLE WALTERS

TTHE TENAFLY SOFTBALL 5th and 6th grade teams, led by Melissa Gomez, ended their season on a high note. Under the guidance of head coach Melissa Gomez and assistant coaches Josh Elias and Dale Knause, the players thrived in an environment that fostered perseverance, teamwork and camaraderie. These not only fueled their love of the game but also set them up for success on and off the field. The trio coached the 5th and 6th grade team and had the pleasure of coaching Karina Knause, Izzy Quinones, Harper Lieberman, Harper Elias, Vivienne Gomez, Maria Kyriannis, Maya Oikawa, Annabelle Cho, Marlow Harris, Lia DiClemente, Samaira Dalal, Cate Pham and Isabelle Holden.

A VICTORIOUS SEASON

While this season ended on a high note, the team put in a lot of hard work to get there. For years, they

have been competing despite a lack of resources. Instead of getting discouraged, they got better. This season, teammate Izzy Quinones moved to Tenafly and joined the team as their starting pitcher. With Quinones leading from the mound, they won the league championship against a team that had been undefeated all season. They secured the victory 3–2.

How did they celebrate? With the Starbucks treat Coach Gomez had promised them if they took home the gold. While winning is always the goal, what matters most to this team is the bond they share and their ability to support one another. “That’s what it’s about: camaraderie. They’re all there for each other, and if somebody strikes out, they pick each other up,” says Gomez.

Elias, who stepped in as assistant coach when there was shortage of volunteers, noted that while winning in their division was one

of the highlights of the season, the true highlight was watching the girls grow into good teammates and show good sportsmanship. “The way they welcomed new players joining the team, consoled one another when mistakes were made and complimented a nice play by the other team—those are the things that I remember most,” he shares.

THE DREAM TEAM (X3)

Throughout the season, it’s not just the players who have to learn to work together. The coaches, who all have daughters that are the same age, do as well. With three coaches bringing different strengths and temperaments to the table, the girls benefited from a well-rounded and balanced approach to the game.

“We’re all different personalities, but we balance each other out,” says Gomez, who grew up playing softball with her father as her coach. Each coach knows their

Vivienne Gomez, Karina Knause and Harper Elias have each played integral roles in the team.

In a photo taken in June, the team shows off trophies after winning the Kinderkamack Softball 5th/6th Grade League Championship. Back row coaches, left to right: Dale Knause, Melissa Gomez, Josh Elias; Middle row, left to right: Marlow Harris, Vivienne Gomez, Karina Knause, Harper Elias, Izzy Quinones, Annabelle Cho, Samaira Dalal, Isabelle Holden, Maya Oikawa; Bottom, left to right: Harper Lieberman, Lia DiClemente, Maria Kyriannis and Cate Pham.

place in the ballpark. Elias keeps score, Knause coaches third base and Gomez coaches first base. “We’re very connected when we’re on the field together,” continues Gomez. “Josh and I are definitely more competitive, while Dale is more laid-back. We have so much trust in each other, and we’re always supportive.”

The coaches also credited the parents and the Tenafly community for making their experience so meaningful. “We always had such good families [on the team]. It’s always been a supportive environment for the girls to win, to lose and to grow,” says Gomez. She mentioned that what attracted her to Tenafly 11 years ago was the “warm, welcoming and likeminded families” that she wanted to raise her children around.

MORE THAN A SPORT

While playing softball is a healthy and fun extracurricular activity for the players, it also provides them with lifelong skills that they can take to all aspects of their lives today and going forward. Gomez encourages all parents who are on the fence about introducing their children involved in sports to take the leap.

“Sports, for girls especially, provides such an amazing foundation for confidence building, leadership skills and development,” said Gomez. “It can set you up to be a successful person and can help you learn how to navigate difficulties. You win, you lose, you learn how to set goals and you learn how to work towards goals. It gives you a good work ethic; if you want to be better,

you have to practice. I feel like so many life lessons are built into sports naturally.”

While the girls are eager to continue their softball experience next season, they have gained much more than a championship win. They developed true friendships and through the help of their committed coaches, learned that working as a team and persevering is more rewarding than any trophy.

Gabrielle Walters is a Tenafly Resident and small business owner. You can find her wellness products in multiple stores across Bergen County.

BBQ PHOTO CoNTEST Grill, Snap, Win!

Tenafly Market Update

What’s actually happening in today’s market—and why It feels a bit confusing.

IF I TOLD YOU that Tenafly has fewer new listings, more homes sitting on the market, a rise in price reductions, and a noticeable spike in expired and withdrawn listings—you’d probably assume prices are dropping.

But you’d be wrong.

In most markets, this kind of slowdown would point to a price correction. But today, many sellers aren’t under pressure to sell. They’re not in crisis, and with strong equity behind them, they’re simply choosing to wait. If they don’t get

their number, they’re saying, “Forget it—I’ll stay.”

And that quiet resistance is what’s keeping prices stable, even as buyer behavior shifts and homes take longer to sell.

From January through June, new listings in Tenafly dropped 28% compared to the same period last year. Under contracts were down 32%, and active listings fell 27%, from 26 to just 19.

At the same time, the median sale price edged up to $1.64 million, and

77 Highwood Ave. List price: $999,000 Sold for: $1,170,000 (Sold after one weekend on the market and multiple bids)

homes that did sell closed at 101.8% of their final asking price. With fewer homes available and steady buyer demand, you might expect every home to sell quickly—but that’s not always the case.

Homes are taking longer to sell— 47 days on average compared to 31 last year. And we’ve seen a 128% increase in withdrawn listings, which likely reflects a shift in seller mindset. Many aren’t in a rush or under pressure; if the offers don’t meet their expectations, they’re simply opting to step back and wait.

Buyers are active, but cautious. With higher monthly costs, they’re more focused on value. Homes that are priced well, presented well and don’t require major updates are still moving—and helping pull average prices up. But homes that miss the mark—whether on condition, layout or pricing—are sitting longer, being reduced or withdrawn altogether.

This isn’t a “hot” or “cold” market— it’s a strategic one. Sellers still have the advantage, but only when they align their home with what buyers are actually looking for right now.

BOOK NOOK

Celebrate the DOG DAYS OF SUMMER at the Tenafly Library

August 26 is National Dog Day! In honor of our furry friends, the August recommendations are novels about dogs. All novels are for adults.

BY JULIE MARALLO, TENAFLY LIBRARY DIRECTOR

TIMBUKTU

by Paul Auster

Mr. Bones is the canine sidekick of Willy G. Christmas, who is on a journey from Brooklyn to Baltimore to find his former high school teacher and mentor, Bea Swanson. Unfortunately, Willy does not know if Bea is still alive, or if she has gone on to Timbuktu, his idea of heaven. Like Sancho Panza, Mr. Bones follows him on this Quixotic journey, sleeping on the streets and trying to prevent Willy from landing in Timbuktu himself. At the same time, Mr. Bones struggles with his own troubling questions: Does Timbuktu allow dogs? If not, will he be separated from Willy in the afterlife?

THE FRIEND

by Sigrid Nunez

2018 National Book Award Winner

A woman’s best friend and mentor dies, and she is left with the last thing she needs—a traumatized Great Dane desperately missing its master. However, she soon becomes so attached to this dog that she becomes obsessed with its care, and it becomes the center of her universe. She even risks eviction to hold on to the only friend she has left in the world.

ONE GOOD DOG

by Susan Wilson

Adam March has it all—money, power and all the organic granola bars from Norway a man could want. Then some disturbing news leads to his nervous breakdown, and he loses everything in the blink of an eye. A judge sentences Adam to community service at a homeless shelter, where he meets a pit bull named Chance. Adam is not fond of the dog, but when he is threatened with death at a kill shelter, Adam takes him in. In return, Chance has more than a few things to teach Adam about life.

FLUSH: A BIOGRAPHY

by Virginia Woolf

Flush was the name of poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s cocker spaniel. While reading love letters between Barrett Browning and her husband Robert, Woolf found herself entertained by the stories about Flush. She decided to write a novel with him as the main character. While narrating the love story of the Brownings, Flush also observes class stratification and gender inequality in London society and vacations in Italy.

THE STORY OF EDGAR SAWTELLE

by David Wroblewski

Edgar Sawtelle is raised on a remote dog-breeding farm in Wisconsin. He is mute and can only communicate using sign language. When he witnesses a tragedy and craves revenge, Edgar flees the farm with three of his dogs. They serve as his companions in the woods as he plots his next course of action. As you read this novel, you can draw parallels to Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”

Check out these events at the library!

We’ve selected a handful of amazing August events at the library. For the full calendar of events, check out the Tenafly Public Library’s website.

Aug. 1

Family Movie Matinee:

Bring your littles to a showing of “Luca” beginning at 11 a.m. All ages welcome.

Aug. 4

Knitting Club:

No registration required. Beginners and experts welcome. Bring your own project or start a new one. We have a limited supply of yarns and needles to help beginners get started. Instruction and advice provided by experienced knitters. Crocheters welcome. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Adults only.

Aug. 5

Dekoden Workshop: Registration only. Teens will work with Ms. Florence to decorate picture frames and other objects with charms and decorative cream glue. 7 p.m. Grades 6 and up.

Aug. 7

Baby Time: Your baby will hear stories, sing songs and move to fingerplays in this active and interactive story and play time. Activities are designed to expose your baby to a large vocabulary as well as encourage social interaction. 11 a.m.

Ages 0 to 2.

Aug. 7

Teen Game Night: Bring your phone or tablet and be ready with quick answers to play games with friends both old and new! Games will vary from Jackbox to Gartic Phone favorites. Grades 5 to 8. 6:30 p.m.

Aug. 13

Tech Expert:

One-on-one online or inperson appointment for help using your electronic device. Registration required. Choose from: Hoopla Digital—for eBooks, audiobooks, comics, movies and music; Kanopy— movie streaming for documentaries, foreign language films, Great Courses; Libby—for eBooks, audiobooks and magazines; Zoom, Webex or Google Meet—for online conferences.

Appointments begin at 10:30 a.m. Adults only.

Aug. 28

Teen D&D with Miss Lydia: Registration required. Step into the fantastical world of Dungeons & Dragons at Tenafly Public Library! Join Ms. Lydia for an immersive adventure where your imagination knows no bounds. Both beginners and experienced players welcomed! Short, one-shot game sessions will reoccur every month and will expand with more open opportunities later down the road. Materials and pre-made characters will be provided, but personal materials and characters are welcomed! Grades 5 to 8. 6:30 p.m.

Mocktails

Refreshing sips for all ages

BY JENNA GALLETTI

1 Signature The Citrus Spritz: A

GONE ARE THE DAYS when your only alcohol-free option at a party was sparkling water with a lemon wedge. With health, wellness and mindful living on the rise, more people are skipping the booze, and mocktails are having their moment. They’re stylish, flavorful and hangover-free. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbeque or a game night with friends or just want something that feels festive without the alcohol, mocktails are here to raise the bar (pun intended).

Today’s mocktails are more than just sugar-loaded drinks. Think fresh herbs, coldpressed juices, fancy garnishes and even gutfriendly ingredients like kombucha or apple cider vinegar. These drinks don’t just look good in your hand; they can actually make you feel good too.

Here are three signature mocktails you can easily make at home for everyone to enjoy.

sunny, sparkling refresher

INGREDIENTS

• Juice of 1 orange

• Juice of ½ lemon

• ½ tsp honey (optional)

• Sparkling water

• Orange slice and rosemary sprig (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

Shake the juices and honey with ice. Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with sparkling water. Garnish like you mean it.

2Berry Bramble Fizz:

Perfect for porch sitting and gossiping with friends

INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup fresh or frozen berries (raspberries or blackberries work best)

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• Juice of ½ lime

• ½ cup club soda

• Mint leaves (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

Muddle the berries and maple syrup in a shaker. Add lime juice and shake with ice. Strain into a glass over ice, top with club soda and toss in some mint for flair.

3

Cucumber Cooler:

Like a spa day in a glass

INGREDIENTS

• 4 slices cucumber

• Juice of ½ lime

• 4 oz coconut water

• Splash of tonic or soda water

• Cucumber ribbon and lime wheel (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

Muddle cucumber and lime juice in a shaker. Add coconut water and shake well. Strain into a chilled glass and top with tonic. Garnish like you own a wellness brand.

The best part? You don’t need to be a bartender or own a cocktail shaker to enjoy these. A mason jar and a wooden spoon will do just fine. These easy, feel-good sips prove that skipping the booze doesn’t mean skipping the fun. So, pour something pretty, take a sip, savor the moment and drink to your health—no hangover in sight. Cheers!

Jenna Galletti is a photographer, marketer and creative producer who splits her time between New York and Boston. She finds endless inspiration through the energy of urban life. Visit her online at www.jennagalletti.com and follow her on Instagram @jennagalletti.

Places to Eat in Tenafly

Awe & Wonder Coffee Shop 35 Highwood Ave. 201-569-1461

Axia Taverna 18 Piermont Road 201-569-5999 www.axiataverna.com

Cafe Angelique 1 Piermont Road 201-541-1010 http://cafeangeliquenyc.com

Celebrity Bagels

30 W. Railroad Ave. 201-894-5555

Chick & Roll 24 W. Railroad Ave., Unit H 201-351-8888 www.chickenandroll.com

Europe Café & Grill 1 Highwood Ave. 201-569-4444 www.europecafegrill.com

JCC Café 411 E. Clinton Ave. 201-569-7900

La Promenade 137 Piermont Road 201-567-2500 https://laprom.com

Mel’s Butcher Box 10 W. Railroad Ave. 201-266-4633 www.melsbutcherbox.com

Miller’s Bakery 5 Washington St. 201-871-4449 https://millersbakeshop.com

Mr. Wok & Sushi 1 Highwood Road 201-569-3969 www.mrwoksushinj.com

Osaka Sushi 23A Washington St. 201-345-7029 https://osakasushitenafly.com

Pizza Nova 24 Washington St. 201-894-9700

Simply Vietnamese 1 Highwood Ave. 201-568-7770 https://simplyvietnamese.info

Spring House 91 W. Clinton Ave. 201-353-0080 www.springhousetenafly.com

Tavlin 7 Railroad Ave. 201-871-6060 https://tavlintenafly.com

Tenafly Diner 16 W. Railroad Ave. 201-567-5522 www.tenaflyclassicdiner.com

Tenafly Hot Bagels 35B Washington St. 201-567-2935

The 130 Club Steakhouse 130 County Road 201-431-2427 https://the130club.com

TPR Restaurant Pizzeria 38 W. Railroad Ave. 201-871-0444 www.tprrestaurant.com

Veda Contemporary Indian Cuisine 10 Jay St. 201-399-7788 www.vedatenafly.com/djmaxihz/ restaurant/order-online

Yasou Santorini 35 Washington Ave. 201-569-1000 https://yasougreekfood.com

Spring House

Yasou Santorini

Eric Lalime, CFP®, CIMA®, C(k)P Managing Director

Whether you are selling a business, inheriting wealth, or looking ahead towards retirement, we work in close collaboration with our investment team and outside advisors to ensure your plan is created efficiently and effectively with your defined objectives in mind. As your life changes and evolves, your plan grows with you -and as stewards of your wealth, we’re with you every step of the way.

Whether you are selling a business, inheriting wealth, or looking ahead work in close collaboration with our investment team and outside advisors is created efficiently and effectively with your defined objectives in mind. evolves, your plan grows with you -and as stewards of your wealth, we’re the way.

Whether you are selling a business, with our is created effectively evolves, with you

Whether business, inheriting work in close our investment is created efficiently effectively with and evolves, your -and as stewards of your wealth, we’re with you every step of the way.

Michael Pilla

Michael Pilla enjoys a Sunday with good food, swimming and a trip to the Tenafly Nature Center.

A digital designer, dad, granddad and author shares how he re-charges on Sundays in Tenafly.

BY MICHAEL PILLA

I’M A SELF-EMPLOYED digital designer, which allows me to work from home. My latest project is “LifeSignz, Typography in Real Life,” a website honoring street signs. It’s a mixed blessing. Between designing, emailing and logging into Zoom meetings, I’m generally staring at one screen or another all day. By the weekend, I’m ready to reconnect with Earth.

We belong to the Tenafly Jewish Community Center, which offers a great gym, yoga and aerobics classes and a huge swimming pool, providing my wife, Debra, and me with numerous ways to work off the stress of the past week. I like to start the day by tackling the weight machines with an intense, admiringly short workout. After challenging my mind all week, my body is screaming for attention.

We live at the Plaza, a condominium on Piermont Road, within walking distance of the downtown business district. I’ve recently discovered a fitness app that magically counts my steps. Taking a stroll is now a competitive sport, “me vs. me.” I’m on the verge of being obsessed with topping my

previous totals.

We usually go to Cafe Angelique for Sunday Brunch. As a creative professional, I can appreciate that this charming cafe is in a beautifully renovated 19th-century train station. The tracks are still there! I once thought I heard a train coming, but it turned out to be the espresso machine. They’ve got a great brunch menu, too: Come for the architecture, stay for the Belgian waffle.

In the afternoon, we often pick up our grandchildren, 6 and 4 years old. At that age, they’re more like puppies. We used to take them to the playground at Froggy Park. There’s a restaurant next door that was a very kid-friendly

cafe with a swing and a sand pit in the backyard. It has since been reimagined as the Spring House, an upscale, Mediterranean-inspired culinary adventure. Fantastic food but no sand pit to be seen.

Now that they’re “older,” they prefer the Tenafly Nature Center. They love the Nature Walk and the little faerie houses along the trail. Their favorite is the Elf House, red with painted yellow flowers and little elves working away.

After dropping the kids off, it’s time to relax. The Plaza is our oasis. We’re fortunate that the Plaza features a gazebo, a clubhouse and a pool, making it an ideal spot to unwind and mentally prepare for the week ahead.

Michael Pilla is a branding/ digital marketing creative director, the founder of Pilla Creative Marketing and the author of “You Oughta Be in Business. A Humorous Guide for the Self-Employed.”