Town Title Agency is a full-service title insurance agency headquartered in Paramus, NJ. Founded in 2001, Town Title has grown to become a leader in the title search and settlement industry and has developed a reputation that is second to none. Over the past 15 years, Town Title has processed in excess of 15,000 title searches — and is still growing. Town Title Agency is licensed in New
PUBLISHERS
Sharon & Steven Goldstein
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Brandon Goldstein
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Suzanne Giovanna Barr
FASHION DIRECTOR
Candace Kristin
PHOTOGRAPHER
Lexi Christine of Lex Christie Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kevin Czerwinski
Tara DeLorenzo
Kristin Favaloro
Brandon Goldstein
Soneca Guadara
Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo
Megan Montemarano
Ralph C. Napoli, DPM
Richard Posluszny
Kimberly Redmond
Bergen County The Magazine is published six times a year. Mail all editorial and advertising materials to 297-101 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 135, Oradell, NJ 07649 or email materials to steven@bcthemag.com.
For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5197 or (201) 265-2286. For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com.
Copyright 2020. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.
There’s no doubt, we cannot wait to say c’est la vie to 2020. If the unordinary small size of this magazine is no indication, this year has been tough on many levels. At no other time in our 20 years, have we ever been so worried for the future of our and other small businesses in Bergen County. Tough times abound for so many, and we look to 2021 with hopeful optimism that our community can recover from all that 2020 had to throw at it.
This is always the time of the year where we like to extend our many thanks to all the people who make this magazine possible.
First and foremost, to our editor, Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo. We cannot express our appreciation
Goldstein family, and Bergen County as a whole, is truly unmatched.
Our art director, Gia Barr, has only been with us a year, but in that short time, and through much of the tumult that 2020 has seen, has brought these pages to life in a way that beautifully expresses what Bergen County is all about.
Our incredibly talented photographer, Nick Gagliano from Studio Uno, has for years illuminated our pages with styled, sharp photographs highlighting the local wares of our community, and our style director, Candace Kristin, has guided us through the ever-changing looks of Bergen County’s most esteemed residents.
Contributors Soneca Guadara and Kristin Favaloro have each delved deep into Bergen culture and curated perfect lists of what to wear – whether it’s the latest in masks (thanks, 2020!) or a new product sure to keep the wrinkles at bay. We are so grateful for their contributions.
As for our advertisers, who have been so loyal to us over the past 20 years, please know, our dreams could never have been recognized without your unwavering support. Through all of these tough times, there’s solace in knowing you have our backs. We will forever have yours.
Lastly, we would like to thank YOU, our readers, for your thoughts, comments and feedback, and for supporting us year in and year out. This magazine is truly a labor of love, and it’s you we do it all for.
As always, we take pride in bringing you a fabulous read. We also hope some of the features in this those less fortunate. Giving to others truly is the best gift one can bestow. In a year like this, there are many who need our help.
Love
always, Sharon and Steven Goldstein
YCS held their annual golf outing at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale. For more information, visit www.ycs.org.
This year, our lives have changed in dramatic, unprecedented ways – from how we live and work to how we learn and play.
But it’s comforting to know that, despite the changes happening around us, our priorities remain the same. Like staying connected to family. The strength that lies in our communities. And, of course, good health and happiness. At Valley, we’re grateful for the trust you’ve placed in us, especially in these ever-changing times. Whatever lies ahead, we’ll be here to care for you and your family, same as always.
Gift of Life America held their annual Golf Outing at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale. For more information, visit
At Holy Name, our Joint Replacement Program is at the forefront of advances in the field of joint replacement surgery. We’re proud to have highly regarded Joint Replacement Specialists Dr. Ari D. Seidenstein, Dr. Gregg R. Klein, and Dr. Harlan B. Levine at Holy Name. With 50 years of combined experience in the field, our team will work tirelessly to design a joint replacement plan that fits your unique needs. From your first visit through your recovery, our team is your team. One more reason why This Place Is Different.
Schedule an appointment today at HolyName.org/BoneJoint
Town Title held their annual golf outing at Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus. For more information, visit .
NJ Sharing Network held their annual golf outing at Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus. For more information, visit
The team at Active Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is proud to announce OrthoASAP, an Orthopedic Urgent Care that lets you skip the wait time and costs of an Emergency Room or general urgent care. At OrthoASAP, our team of Orthopedic Specialists treat bone, joint and muscle injuries - with no appointment needed! So whether it’s an injury on the field or that nagging pain you have had for a few weeks, we have the right solution for you. Our goal is to make sure you are seen by the right specialist right away so that you can get back to living your life ASAP.
Homes Fit For Heroes held their annual golf outing at Arcola Country Club in Paramus. For more information, visit
Soon the leaves will start to change colors, but that does not mean you should change your healthcare routine. Now, more than ever, it is important that you and your family follow up with your doctors to help stay healthy.
Englewood Health reminds you to:
Select a primary care physician for yourself and your family members
Schedule your annual physical
Make sure you are up to date on any necessary vaccinations and get your flu shot
Speak with your physician about important screenings and preventive care services, including:
• Colonoscopy
• Lung cancer screening
• Mammogram
• Pap smear and HPV screening
• Prostate cancer screening
• Hepatitis screening
• Smoking cessation
• Bone density testing
• Cardiology exam
• Vascular screening for stroke and neurological conditions
• Joint and spine check-up and care
• Pulmonary function testing
• Vein screening
Need help finding a physician? Call 833-234-2234 or visit englewoodhealth.org
Family Promise held their 21st Annual Golf Outing at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale. For more information, visit
By Megan Montemarano
At the end of a long day, there’s nothing quite like returning home – walking up the front steps, turning the key in the lock and stepping into your own, personal world. A home is a safe space. It’s a place to unwind, be yourself and plant your roots. Most big plans for the future start at home. In fact, studies reveal that graduation rates, net family wealth, security and safety and overall health, all improve as a result of homeownership. Having a place to call home is more than just a roof and walls – it’s towards a brighter future ahead. This reality is what prompted Linda and Miller Fuller, a deeplying practical ways to serve the less fortunate with the formation of Habitat for Humanity. Through their early involvement in a housing ministry in rural Georgia, the Fullers learned that lower income families spend the vast majority of their income on housing and rent. In order to break this endless cycle and head towards more
strongly believed that homeownership was the answer. As a result, the housing ministry began constructing simple homes that were then sold to low income families at 0 percent interest. Mortgage income was put in a “Fund for Humanity” to support future builds. In 1976, this eventually became known as Habitat for Humanity. Now anization spanning all 50 states in the U.S. and approximately 70 countries, Habitat for Humanity has become a worldwide phenomenon, consistently abiding by its belief that everyone deserves a home.
Here, in Bergen County, tireless staff members and volunteers have been building homes for lower income families in the community since 1994. Now 25 begun its 27th build.
“We have a small professional construction staff that manages hundreds of volunteers who help build the homes,” explains Maureen Cameron, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County. “We typically build one home per year or multi-units, such as duplexes and townhouses.”
Site builds take approximately 12-14 months, depending upon the project.
While mortgage income
helped the organization grow in its early days, this revenue can only cover a small percentage of the funds needed to successfully develop homes.
“Typically, land is donated to us or sold for one dollar,” says Cameron. “Through fundraising – events, grants, individual donations, corporate partnerships and some government support through HOME funds, we can generate enough income to pay for the expenses related to building the residences.”
Families that qualify for homeownership are selected through an application process. In addition to income limit requirements, homeowners must demonstrate that their current living conditions are less than adequate and have clean credit.
“Selected homeowner families are required to commit 400 hours of ‘sweat equity’ to contribute to the project,” adds Cameron.
Other professional services, such as plumbing and electrical
work, are usually discounted or even provided as a pro bono service. It’s truly a team effort. Additionally, in 2017, Bergen Habitat also opened a ReStore in Westwood that is run by paid staff and a large number of dedicated volunteers. This store collects gently used furniture and household items and sells them to the public, which serves as a critical source of support for future site builds.
In terms of partnerships, Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County frequently works with local municipalities, building afobligations and most importantly, provide a fresh start to deserving Bergen County families. The group’s construction staff and pro bono attorneys, in conjunction with an outside potential project building sites. Bergen Habitat hopes to continue expanding its footprint in other local communities in the years ahead.
But it doesn’t end there; the group also focuses its efforts on rehabilitation projects for distressed areas.
“We completed nearly 100 rehabilitation projects in Little Ferry and Moonachie after Super Storm Sandy and are currently negotiating with a local municipality to rehabilitate ten residences that house senior citizens.”
The quality work and vast impact made by this organization are clear. Being a part of it, no matter how small, is undoubt-
yond Bergen Habitat’s usual site volunteers, there is also a group of retired individuals dedicated
year long, whimsically nicknamed “The Greyheads.” There are currently 25 “Greyheads” working at Bergen Habitat’s
Wednesday – a heartwarming reality, proving that lending a helping hand bears no limits.
“Helping low income families move towards economic stability brings so many other outcomes, higher education achievement, and less behavioral problems,” adds Cameron. “Habitat is not a handout – it’s a hand up.”
After building 26 homes over 25 years, Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County has
experienced zero mortgage defaults. Participating families are extremely grateful to have the opportunity to live in such wonderful towns at an affordable price.
In a recent testimonial, Tyrone and Patricia of Waldwick state: “Moving into our Habitat home was the most important event in our lives. Previously, we shared a small, cramped apartment. Our son was a bright boy, just entering high school, but he had trouble focusing on his schoolwork. Our Habitat home gave him the space he needed to study. He could close his bedroom door and focus. Our son excelled in high school, then in college, and now he is a second-year medical student. We are eternally grateful to have had the opportunity to purchase this amazing home and raise our family with dignity.”
John, Nikki and little Johnny of the Township of Washington describe Habitat as “more than
just building homes – Habitat is about building futures.”
The evidence is clear. Homeownership positively changes lives in immeasurable ways.
“Our founders’ mission, focused on homeownership serving as a way out of poverty to economic stability and security,
that Habitat Bergen has built,” adds Cameron.
Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County’s next project is underway. A single-family home for a low to moderate income veteran family will be constructed at 95 Sand Road in Westwood.
Habitat for Humanity has begun site work and will welcome volunteers – reduced by 50 percent and adhering to all safety guidelines – in a few weeks (visit HabitatBergen.org/Volunteer to sign up). The project will be completed within 12 months.
For more information and additional volunteer details, visit www.habitatbergen.org.
Throughout the year, we’ve received an outpouring of suppor t from community the year, we’ve received an of support from members and organizations – recognizing the healthcare workers of St. Joseph’s Health. members and – the healthcare workers of St. Health. Thank you for thinking of our dedicated team members. We are in extraordinar y times, Thank you for of our dedicated team members. We are in extraordinary times, but we have an exceptional team, and we are committed to the communities we ser ve. but we have an and we are committed to the communities we serve.
Throughout the year, we’ve received an outpouring of suppor t from community the year, we’ve an outpouring of support community members and organizations – recognizing the healthcare workers of St. Joseph’s Health. members and organizations – recognizing the healthcare workers of St. Joseph’s Health. you for thinking of dedicated team We are in extraordinar y times, you for of dedicated team members. We are in extraordinary but we have an exceptional team, and we are committed to the communities we ser ve. but we have an team, and we are committed to the communities we serve. you’d like to join your neighbors in making a y donation to like to your in a monetary donation to
If you’d like to join your neighbors in making a monetar y donation to If like to your in a monetary donation to
please visit us at www.givetostjosephs.org. visit us at
please visit us at www.givetostjosephs.org. visit us at
In recognition of our healthcare heroes, we invite you to watch a powerful video chronicling the Year of the Pandemic at St. Joseph’s Health. of healthcare heroes, invite watch powerful video chronicling of the Pandemic at Joseph’s
Scan to watch: Scan to watch:
This past summer, Marlie Lagstein drew inspiration-
After watching an adaption of “The Baby-Sitters Club,” the beloved book series about a group of teens who start a babysitting business to help families, Marlie, 10, began thinking about ways she could reach out to her community.
“I thought, ‘We should make a business, too, but give money we earn to others who need it,” the Wyckoff girl said.
Marlie pitched the idea to her friends, Taylor Stead and Leila Jalil, and together they launched The Giving Girls, an effort that ultimately raised over $1,100 for local animal shelters. By creating and selling one-of-a-kind jewelry, personalized pet bowls and homemade dog treats, the girls were able to donate $874 to Ramapo-Bergen Animal Shelter (RBARI) in Oakland. They also gave $320 to East Coast Canine Rescue, a group that Taylor’s mom volunteers at.
“Marlie, Leila and I wanted to think of a way to help an organization that helps animals and we all love dogs and all animals,” Taylor said. “RBARI is close to where we live, so lots of people know them.”
At RBARI, North Jersey’s leading no-kill shelter, the staff was completely surprised when they received an email from the girls about the initiative.
1. Taylor Stead, Marlie Lagstein and Leila Jalil holding a bunny jewelry holder and pet bowls that they designed and 3D printed for their fundraiser.
2. Marlie Lagstein and Leila Jalil went door to door with a wagon full of jewelry and pet bowls that they were selling for their fundraiser. Some jewelry was donated and others they made out of seashells and string during play dates.
3. Marlie Lagstein, puppy Maggie and Leila Jalil on their way to deliver some of their orders.
By Kimberly Redmond
Aubrey Durenberger, RBARI’s operations manager, said, “We were blown away by the amazing collection and number of girls who came together to support our rescue and its animals.”
The funds “will go to directly supporting” the 112 felines and 45 canines being cared for by RBARI, including food, medical needs and other essential items, she said. outbreak has hit animal shelters and rescues hard as fundraisers have either been outright cancelled or scratched until further notice.
The pandemic has challenged groups that take for expenses that haven’t come to a halt.
At RBARI, in-person events and meetings, which Megan Brinster, the shelter’s executive director, said “have traditionally been the backbone of our fundraising” were called off.
“This has caused us to rely more than ever on our community, individual donors and caring and compassionate people like the Giving Girls for the extra support we need this year,” Brinster said. “In addition, a lot of the supplies for cleaning and PPE have been more expensive to buy. We’ve also have had an increase of animals in need this year, so the support we receive truly matters more than ever.”
Although Marlie always wanted to tap into her entrepreneurial side, she didn’t believe it would be successful so she never pursued the idea. -
vided some inspiration and gave her the push she needed to start up a business.
Besides having fun while working together, Marlie said the characters in “The Baby-Sitters Club” helped her realize “if you work hard, anything is possible.”
“Sure, there’ll be some challenges, but there’s challenges in everything,” she said. “Walking is even a challenge, you can trip and fall!”
And challenged they were.
tough, Leila said.
“It was complete chaos until we found our groove,” Leila said. “We had to organize money, schedules and people. It was confusing for awhile.”
Producing their creations was also time consuming.
“The dog bowls took about 24 hours to 3D print. Depending on the bracelet or necklace, it could take between one to 20 minutes,” Leila said. “And, dog treats can take up to an hour and a half depending on the treat.”
But, their efforts paid off. After being in business one day, The Giving Girls had at least $200 worth of dog bowl orders and collected about $30 in donations for the animal shelter.
As orders poured in, the trio’s friends, Lily Burgess,volved with The Giving Girls.
While the group handled everything from creating a business logo to taking orders to creating jewelry
“With a big heart and motivation, individually, they learned that they can make a difference and together they can make an even greater impact.”
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to tracking money, Marlie’s mother, Brooke Langstein, helped them with promotions since the girls do not have their own individual social media accounts.
Besides posting pictures and videos about the fundraiser online, Brooke set up dedicated Facebook and Instagram handles for The Giving Girls, as well as coordinated get-togethers for the girls to make and deliver their goods.
In addition to learning “about the logistics of starting a fundraiser and persevering through various challenges,” the girls developed “a sense of empowerment and passion for helping others,” Brooke said.
“Also, their excitement and joy has been so uplifting during the pandemic,” she added.
put their minds to.”
“With a big heart and motivation, individually, they learned that they can make a difference and together they can make an even greater impact,” Stefanie said.
daughter, Finley, and the other girls that “they can make a real tangible impact in their community even though they are still in elementary school.”
At RBARI, Brinster said they were especially struck by the fact that the initiative was driven by young females.
In a letter of recognition to The Giving Girls, she wrote, “I don’t know if you know this, but our organization is mostly run by women, though we do have a few very incredible male employees. I note this because you girls have the heart, spirit and determination to do anything, and to make a difference in the community around you, just like the incredible women I get to work with each day. The fact that you have used your voices and time to help those who cannot speak for themselves is brave and very commendable.”
The Giving Girls said the effort to help animal shelters will be ongoing and that they plan to conduct more fundraisers.
“That is our goal. Since school started, we may have to slow down a little bit, but we won’t stop,” Taylor said.
They’ve also extended an invitation to other kids who’d like to join the group to help.
“We can help many different causes,” Marlie said, “For us, it’s about how you do it, why you do it and where you do it from. We do it from the heart.”
Leila said, “We hope to continue our work for as long as we can. The more people we help, the better. As long as people need our help, the Giving Girls will keep on giving.”
For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/thegivinggirlsnj.
By Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo
Every stab tells a story and every story becomes a beautiful piece of furniture or wall art that can be passed down for years to come – at least that’s how Palisades Park furniture-maker Danielle De Ceglie sees it.
De Ceglie, a fourth generation Italian American, is the owner of Endless Grain (endlessgrain.com), a shop full of one-of-a-kind furniture and art piece
“I make anything from serving platters to plant stands to end tables and kitchen and dining room tables,” she said.
De Ceglie was “one of those kids” that would folbuild things.
“I would always ask a lot of questions and if I wasn’t drawing things that were around my house, I was taking my toys or electronics apart and then I’d put them back together again,” she said. “I’ve always been quite handy and I’ve always tried to
As far as art goes, she’s been dabbling in it since she could hold a pencil. While she went to college for graphic design, she got hired as the art director
degree. She worked for the newspaper for over 13 years, winning two NJPA awards for design, beshortly thereafter online.
It wasn’t until the winter of 2015 that her interest in wood began, however.
Being born and raised in Palisades Park, which De Ceglie admits has a lot of feral cats, she wanted to build the animals shelter for the upcoming winter.
“I decided to research woods and insulation that would be best used,” she said. “It surprisingly came easy for me, and that’s when I realized how much I really enjoyed working with wood and building things.”
One thing led to another for De Ceglie and she started to study and learn different kinds of woods – hardwoods; softwoods; exotics; heartwood; sapwood; etc.
“Every piece of wood is completely different than the next – whether it be the different grain, the color, the cut,” she said. “Some have slabs; some have soft spots…Every slab becomes a beautiful piece of art within itself. There are no limitations.”
To view or purchase De Ceglie’s work, visit her website at endlessgrain.com.
I would always ask a lot of questions and if I wasn’t drawing things that were around my house, I was taking my toys or electronics apart and then I’d put them back together again.
ABY
-
tor and personal trainer Darlene Bellarmino is looking to empower women with an accessible approach to working out with her app Girl Up.
Girl Up was developed with the idea of simple workouts for users of all levels to adapt to their abilities. With her years of group class (continues on page 40)
By Tara DeLorenzo
instruction and personal training, as well as a psychology degree and both her NASM -
mino has created approachable target zones to help women embrace their true self.
“I have four key pieces to Girl Up,” she said. “One targeted to women. I wanted simple exercises for them; I wanted users to not have to think so much. I didn’t want anyone getting stressed if they didn’t have equipment to use. And, also, I wanted it to be easy to navigate. There are some apps I got on that by the time I got to the exercise, I was so frustrated cause I had to go through page after page after page
so I wanted to make it easy to navigate, and I wanted to make it affordable. People aren’t able to do things right now, they’re struggling, so I wanted to make this affordable. That’s the mission of my app: to help women and help empower them to be themselves.”
ney began back when her second son, now 14, was 2 years old, and she was taking time off from her corporate position as a human resource director to be home with her children. While happy to be home with her children, Bellarmino had found
I really wanted my mission to be more female related, really helping them and empowering them to speak up, step out of their shell and feel good about themselves. my mission to be y b more female relat really the po up m s p the andfeelgood feelgood
she has lost herself without her corporate career, so her friends encouraged her to join them at the gym. It was there she found both a new passion and herself.
“I just fell in love with it,” she said. “It really helped me have
again, so because of that I felt like I wanted to give back and
too. A year later, I got certiwhen I went back to work to the corporate world, I kept that up and did it on the weekends or evenings and it was great. It wasn’t just for me too, but I could see people coming to my classes and they felt good; you could see personalities turn around. I loved my corporate job, but I really wanted to help people.”
She balanced both the corpo-
classes for 7 years before decid-
ing to dedicate her career to and working for different companies, Bellarmino opened her own personal training business, RISE training.
“RISE stands for resilient, inspired, strong and empowered,” she explained. “I really wanted my mission to be more female related, really helping empowering them to speak up, step out of their shell and feel good about themselves.”
With her personal training business, Bellarmino teaches interval training (HIIT), an upper body strength, a lower body strength and a Pilates fusion. boxing, among others.
“I’ve taught so many formats. You name it, I’ve taught it,” she said. “I like the variety.”
The more she was able to
more she wanted to do. And, after working with developers and planning different workouts for a little more than a year, Bellarmino was able to launch Girl Up in June of 2020.
Her goal with the app was to appeal to all levels and ability. With her years in personal training, Bellarmino has seen patients through all walks of life dealing with knee injuries, shoulder injuries or cancer
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survivors, and she has seen their intimidation when it comes to approaching workouts. Girl Up’s and personalization that gives people with any condition the workouts are organized by parts of the body and become more advanced if weights are added. For those more in the beginner level, no weights make them more approachable, said Bellarmino.
“If you could see me right now, you’d see I’m smiling earto-ear right now; I love doing this. It’s just fun. I’m making these workouts so anyone can do it – not just levels, but also people with injuries or medical problems. I love making workouts that are accessible to everyone that everyone can do,” she said.
“Girl Up is for all levels. It can be for someone who’s never worked out in their lives. It’s intimidating to get into a gym so I made it so if a person at that level goes in, they can look at what’s there and think ‘Oh, I can do that. I don’t have to use weights; I can just do this,’” she continued. “It’s also geared towards mid-level and higher level because anyone who’s been working out knows they can just add weights or increase their weights and they would know how to make it a higher inten-
sity workout for them. So, that’s a key piece in it. I don’t feel like a lot of apps do that. I feel like
level and then hopefully people it was so important to me that it was easy to navigate as well.”
Her years of experience teaching various formats, in addition to specializing in both group class instruction and oneon-one personal training helped enhance her approach to the app too, as she was able to design the app to allow people to personalize what they are looking to work on, while the group training has helped her learn what goes into a successful workout.
And more than just a workout platform, Bellarmino hopes the app inspires a community to grow.
“It’s more than just an app for women, I really would love to
build a community with it. So, I hope people get that, and I think they’ll love it because it’s easy to get through and do,” she said. “So many people come to me intimidated and I don’t want that. I want it to be simple and approachable for them so they realize they can do it.”
Girl Up brings together the best of Bellarmino’s personal training experience and her group training instruction. To Bellarmino, this app is more along the lines of personal training, since it is so personalized based on user preference, but it has a class type environment for each workout.
Looking forward too, Bellarmino hopes to add classes to the app, where she is teaching and leading a 20- to 30-minute class. Her goal for Girl Up is to have classes of all varying lengths of time so that women of all lifestyles and schedules
“I think it’s important because we can’t always get to a gym, especially right now; there’s so many restrictions. People can’t get to the gym like they used to, and they have their kids home with them all day long or half a day, so it’s really hard,” she said. “With this app, they can do a workout whenever they want for as little or as long as they want, for as long as they
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have the time. They can just get on the app and do their workout and be done with it. It’s great and it’s important because it’s right there with them, so if they have the time and energy, they can just hop on it and do it. I didn’t want anything where people had to think too much. People go on an app because they don’t want to think about a workout. It’s already there for them; it makes it simple.”
With workouts focusing on all parts of the body, as well as HIIT workouts readily available, Girl Up seeks to make working out more attainable, approachable, and affordable, and Bellarmino hopes to help women grow comfortable with themselves and as a community with
the app. With the help of Girl Up, she hopes women are able to transform themselves not just physically, but mentally.
“What I like people to know is I feel like life is about loving who you are, accepting others for who they are and recognizing the work of both. It’s important because I feel like people are just so critical of one another and it’s not until we take a step back and think about it and we’re all just trying to live and love ourselves. I want people to love who they are and accept others,” Bellarmino said.
“[And with this app,] I hope that women are able to relieve stress because we just have so much going on right now. I hope they
and realize they can do more than they could imagine. I hope not just physically but mentally and emotionally their health improves if they were in a rut or going through something. I hope this app helps them recognize they’re so much better than they think they are.”
Girl Up is available for download on the Apple App Store.
Monthly memberships are available for $7/month and annual memberships are available from $59.99. There is also a 6-month membership for $39.99. Girl Up also offers a 14-day free trial.
More information can be found at www.girlup.app, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GirlUpApp/ or on Instagram at GirlUp.App.
Have you ever taken notice of couples that dress alike? Is that a pure coincidence? Well, the answer is actually yes, most of the time.
Often, couples that dress in coordinated outfits do this subconsciously. It’s a process that typically begins in the first few months of the relationship. Science has declared that indeed the longer you’re with your partner, the more you resemble each other.
The scientific name for this is called “Convergence of Appearance.” Basically, people who select each other as mates are more similar in appearance than randomly chosen couples. We have all heard the saying that opposites attract, but that appears to be confined to personality, not looks. The reality is, people are attracted to people who look similar to them. So, is this a coincidence? The answer is yes.
Dressing alike indicates that a couple is in sync with one another. This also translates not just to clothing but also into food, hobbies and/ or interests. Dressing alike tells others you are a unified couple. It gives a couple the feeling of association, just as you may wear a uniform to work or a uniform to identify as a sports team. Why not wear a “uniform” to signify you’re a romantic couple?
How about John Lennon and Yoko Onno both donning white outfits at Heathrow Airport in 1969? Then, there’s Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, who classically like to dress similar when out on the town.
Now, if you’re going to start changing your wardrobe for intentional reasons rather than the subconscious, this can be an area of concern. One should not alter their wardrobe because what you wear is part of your identity. You need to ask yourself are you doing this for you or for your partner. If you are dressing a way to make your partner happy then perhaps your connection may not be as strong or healthy. Let’s be real, no one wants to date themselves; that can be kind of boring.
A lot of celebrity couples have been known to match their partner. Remember when Justin Timberlake and Brittany Spears made a grand entrance to the American Music Awards in 2001, both wearing coordinating denim outfits?
However, if you’re hosting an event or if it’s the holiday season, dressing alike can be fun and a great way to show others how attracted and involved you are as a couple and a family. Dressing alike will make everything look coherent and tell a story.
So yes, when you see real people in the streets or celebrities we admire dressed alike, chances are this is subconscious. It’s basically osmosis.
Soneca Guadara is a personal fashion stylist who makes her clients feel beautiful and confident. When Soneca is not working her magic assisting her clients, she can be found working backstage at New York Fashion Week, working on location shoots and contributing as an on-air fashion/style expert and style writer. You can follow Soneca on her Instagram – @StyledBySoneca – for weekly tips.
by Soneca Guadara
A Jersey girl with a serious makeup and skincare obsession.
A w skin andskin d k i
From tanning mo to a m and ever ything these a ever yone on your l the shopp
From tanning mousse to cologne to a full-glam makeup palette and everything in between, these holiday gifts are sure to impress everyone on your list and streamline the gift shopping process.
by Kristin Favaloro
This local Bergen County girl creates the best artisan soap products. These are customizable and make the perfect holiday gift. Available at www handmadesudsbynic.com.
For a great affordable makeup brush set, I love this one by Sephora. Sephora brushes have become my go-to in the last few months. They are a great quality at a great price. Available at sephora.com.
My all-time favorite dry shampoo is the Oribe version. I love this set for the holidays because it has a full-size version and also a travel version so you can throw it in your bag and take it on-the-go. The smell is so amazing also. Available at Bluemercury, Closter.
Beautycounter
My favorite medi-spa offers monthly membership packages, which would be the perfect holiday gift for anyone on your list. For a monthly fee, you get facials, injectables and special a package that they will love. Available at Bare Aesthetic, Closter.
If you are looking to spurge on the guy in your life, this cologne is what you are looking for! It doesn’t get more splurge-worthy than Creed. This musky masculine scent will be a staple in any fragrance collection. Available at Neiman Marcus, Paramus.
This limited-edition holiday palette is all you will need for those holiday parties, whether they happen in-person or on Zoom. The blush, highlighter and eyeshadows are all I will Beautycounter consultant.
Once you try this brand’s body lotion, I promise you that you will never use another lotion again. The scent is an obsession of mine. This limited-edition set is a must for the holiday season – whether you keep it for yourself or give it as a gift. Available at sephora.com.
Kristin Favaloro is a Jersey girl with a serious makeup and skincare obsession. Follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pg/beautyandtheburbsnj or visit her blog at www.beautyandtheburbsnj.com to discover all that Bergen County has to make a beautiful you. Have a product you’d like Kristin to check out? Email her directly at beautyandtheburbs201@gmail.com.
BY MEGAN MONTEMARANO
here’s a revolution happening in the menswear industry, and you can be a part of it. J.Hilburn, which launched in 2007, offers custom-made men’s clothing artfully crafted with quality fabrics from Italy. The brand was start-
cial industry that were dissatis-
decided that most men would agree – shopping for suits, sport coats, button-downs and slacks at malls and traditional retailers often results in poor
and more J.Hilburn showrooms pop up throughout the country, from New York City to Seattle, it is safe to say that they were proven right.
Outside of showroom locations, the company has numerous stylists representing its top-notch, yet affordable, men’s apparel, who work with clients to thoughtfully cater to each individual’s body and style.
“What makes J.Hilburn unique is that it is person-
al, which makes perfect sense because every person’s style is individual,” says Jesse Rosenstein, Bergen County stylist and
“The Material Man.” “We can classic and traditional styles to men who are all about contemporary and modern trends.”
Rosenstein was introduced to J.Hilburn at its launch back in 2007, when he was contacted by the company to help source fabrics
the apparel industry his entire life, Rosenstein was instantly impressed.
Throughout his high school and college years, Rosenstein spent summers working alongside his father, who was a textile designer. Given his family history, he found himself always surrounded by fabrics used for men’s suits and sport coats. He was destined to follow in his father’s footsteps.
“My professional career in menswear started in 2001 when I began as a sales agent for a few highend Italian and British fabric mills, selling their
product to some of the best brands in the States,” comments Rosenstein. “The mills that J.Hilburn used to source their fabrics and the factories where their garments were made, were enough for me to realize that this brand was top-notch. Most luxury companies using these same fabrics charge double the price of what J.Hilburn charges.”
Over time, as J.Hilburn grew and the fabric orders increased, Rosenstein paid closer attention to the brand and their impact on the industry as a whole, becoming eager to get more involved.
“In addition to my B-to-B fabric sales agency, I now enjoy working directly with clients through J.Hilburn,” adds Rosenstein.
Serving as a J.Hilburn stylist for just over a year now, Rosenstein feels fortunate to be a part of such a transformative brand.
“J.Hilburn has been incredibly disruptive to the menswear industry — in a positive way,” says
Rosenstein. “Their standard turnaround time for custom-made clothing was unheard of 10 years ago. Also, the value of what you get for the prices they charge is incredible.”
The company offers two collections: J.Hilburn and Hilburn. J.Hilburn is the core business, aimed at men ages 35 and up. All clothing is custom made and pricing depends on the fabric. Suits in this collection mostly sell from $800 to $1000, and sport coats range from $600 to $750.
The newer collection, Hilburn, is aimed at the millennial client, normally a recent college suits in the Hilburn line are semi-custom at $598 and sport coats are $420.
minutes to an hour, during which time Rosenstein, and other J.Hilburn stylists, take new client mea-
now proudly partnered with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey!
We’ve just tightened and firmed up an attractive new partnership with…
Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey . This now enables us to bring our high standard of plastic surgical care to more of the patients in northern New Jersey. Horizon BCBSNJ patients in need of breast reconstruction, hand surgery, complex reconstructive, peripheral/cranial nerve disorders and nasal airway issues … ARE NOW IN OUR NETWORK!
surements and discuss their personal style and preferences. Any additional consultations typically take 20-30 minutes.
out what exactly they’re looking for,” says Roseneach person.” -
men must balance. Working with a J.Hilburn stylist opens up a whole new door to one’s wardrobe, -
egant at the same time. In addition to suits and sport coats, J.Hilburn also offers custom clothing options for trousers, shirts, casual chinos, shorts, polos, golf apparel, swimwear and outerwear. So, for all of you men out there that don’t spend
We’re now proudly partnered with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey!
Our recent partnership with … Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is changing the face of health insurance in the plastic surgery industry. This now enables us to bring our high standard of plastic surgical care to more of the patients in northern New Jersey. Horizon BCBSNJ patients in need of breast reconstruction, hand surgery, complex reconstructive, peripheral/cranial nerve disorders and nasal airway issues … ARE NOW IN OUR NETWORK!
RICHARD WINTERS, MD
Complex reconstructive, rhinoplasty and functional nasal surgery
sions a good one.
cause everything is custom-made at J.Hilburn, you you,” says Rosenstein. To learn more about J.Hilburn and view lookbooks, custom styles, collections and more, visit https://jesserosenstein.jhilburn.com. You can also view new styles and trends in men’s fashion by following Jesse Rosenstein’s Instagram and Facebook. If you are interested in a consultaemail jesse.rosenstein@jhilburnpartner.com.
Model: Jillian Vesia
Photographer: Lexi Christine
OUTFIT DETAILS:
Jumpsuit: 4th and Reckless
Pants: Asos Designs
Shoes: Steve Madden
The wonder of what this holiday season will look like in these extraordinary coronavirus times is under way. Whether you’re enjoying some of Grandma’s famous homemade eggnog amongst family and friends or picking up a bottle during your essential grocery store shop, here are some festive out ts –thanks to The Fashion Facelift – to get you through a holiday season that is expected to be unlike any in living memory.
The Fashion Facelift is a styling team based in Bergen County. O ering personal styling services virtually and in person, they will leave you with a whole new outlook on your wardrobe and revamp your personal style. Jillian and Fernanda are committed to educating clients on not only what to wear, but how to wear it to ensure you’re left feeling con dent and stylish no matter the occasion.
Model: Jillian Vesia
Photographer: Lexi Christine
OUTFIT DETAILS:
Blazer: 4th and Reckless
Pants: Asos Designs
Shoes: Steve Madden
Model: Jillian Vesia
Photographer: Lexi Christine
OUTFIT DETAILS:
Jumpsuit: 4th and Reckless
Top: Asos Designs
Shoes: Doc Marten
Pages 60 & 61
Model:
Photographer: Lexi Christine
OUTFIT DETAILS:
Coat: BCBG Collection
Tee: Vintage
Skirt: ASOS Collection
Shoes: Steve Madden
Pages 62 & 63
Model: Photographer: Lexi Christine
OUTFIT DETAILS: Jumpsuit & Top: Free People
Hat: ASTR
Shoes: Steve Madden
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck the United States, just like that, life as we knew it changed. Little things that were often taken for granted, like shaking hands, welcoming a friend
getting your haircut, vanished practically overnight.
“Closed” signs now appeared in nearly every local business, accompanied by an impending fear of the unknown – fear about the health and safety of the community and what the economic future would hold. When will we open? Will our employees and clients be safe? How do we keep them safe? These are just some of the questions that were running through the mind of Christine Modica, owner of Stag House, a unique “barber-salon” in Glen Rock.
and homey shop around town. Clearly focused on the welfare of their employees, when faced with -
dures, Modica was determined to get the legislative process right.
“My friend and fellow salon owner and I found that there was a rather large hole in our industry when it came to guidance,” comments Modica. “We are licensed by the state and fall under both the Division of Consumer Affairs, which oversees our licensing department, and the State Board of Cosmetology. There was never a question that between those two bodies, the consumer is very protected. However, my question has always been, what about those that work in the industry? After we were shut down for the COVID-19 pandemic, it was clear that there was no one advocating for us.”
Modica and her business partner, Rachel Israel,
a hybrid experience between a barbershop and fullservice salon. They specialize in both men’s grooming and other luxury services, while also offering the total salon experience complete with funky styles and vivid colors. Over the years, they have gained the reputation of being the happy, hip, comfortable
Modica soon took matters into her own hands. It all began with a Facebook group page that gained a few thousand members, who also felt scared and unsure of what legislative actions to take for their industry. With very little communication between boards and professionals, it is common for regulations to go into effect without salons even knowing
“I learned that being a small brick and mortar business owner whose business survived a global pandemic, resulting in shutting down for 101 days straight, only makes you stronger and smarter.”
Modica closely watched reports, sat in on countless Zoom meetings with companies, including New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA), one of the state’s business advocacy groups, to stay up to date with
and off their desks.
“I continued to advocate, became familiar with terminology contingent to law, contacted countless assembly persons and decided it would be crucial to make our group legitimate,” comments Modica.
She soon paired up with James Alba, owner of B Hive Organic Salon in Hillsdale, whom she met through the Facebook group she started. With his business-savvy support
answers, the New Jersey Salon and Spa Coalition was born.
In no time, they successfully integrated their group with NJBIA to continue their efforts.
“We constructed our best practices, submitted them to NJ’s Reopen Board on the Main Street sector and learned that our voices were, in fact, being heard,” says Modica.
The New Jersey Salon and
Upon reopening, Stag House enforces these safeguards.
Spa Coalition practices were released two weeks after receiv-
Unlike other advocacy groups,
Salons are a unique type of business, falling under a service industry, however, sanitation procedures, even pre-COVID-19, are within hospital grade laws. They are heavily regulated and answer to two governing bodies.
“Our main goal with this coalition is to blur the line between professionals and our governing bodies,” says Mod-
ica. “There seems to be disorganization within our overseers, and we want to continue taking our licenses seriously. Salons employ thousands of New Jersey citizens, and it’s time for us all to be protected and supported.”
Salon owners throughout the state can learn more and access helpful resources by becoming a NJBIA member and visiting the landing page dedicated to the Coalition. Becoming a member also provides
additional support of the growing alliance.
“In the salon industry, it’sModica. “I joined NJBIA when and it’s been monumental for our employees.”
reopening, Modica and Alba coordinated with the NJ State Board of Cosmetology to receiving correct and clear guidelines, leaving no room for confusion. They successfully passed an executive order by working in unison with the
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state, as well as the Division of Consumer Affairs, regulatory analysts and many other bodies responsible for the reopening of salons and day-to-day function.
“It was hard to not get distracted by my fear and sadness – the remorse for humanity and empathy for all who suffered loss,” comments Modica. “But my focus remained on the welfare of our team. Perhaps the greatest challenge was the uncertainty and inability to have control over the situation. The control we did eventually gain breathes through the alliance.”
The work of Modica and Alba is 100 percent volunteer. While continuing to run their own
businesses, they are constantly pressing to gain members and continue to strengthen their mission – one that took an incredible amount of time and patience to build from the ground up during unprecedented times.
“I learned an incredible amount from this whole experience,” adds Modica. “I learned that being a small brick and mortar business owner whose business survived a global pandemic, resulting in shutting down for 101 days straight, only makes you stronger and smarter. I learned that the loyalty of my employees is unsurpassed and my guests will support us
no matter what. I learned how to strategize – there wasn’t one day where I wasn’t taking notes, sitting in on webinars, speaking with other owners or planning for worst case scenarios during the entirety of our shutdown. This is a labor of love. We don’t gain anything from the work wetion of knowing that we have made a difference and strengthened our industry. I am forever thankful for the chance to help salons all over our state.”
Please visit njbia.org to become a NJBIA member and learn more about all the New Jersey Salon and Spa Coalition has to offer.
The world is spinning full speed ahead. As life becomes more complicated and schedules get busier, time seems to have a way of escaping us. We’re told to always look forward; set goals; and stay focused on tomorrow.
how can one properly shape the future?
Ann Arnold, Bergen County daughter of Holocaust of mentoring through history, which she succeeds in doing
By MEGAN MONTEMARANO
book, “Together: A Journey of Survival.” As a young Jewish boy in Poland in 1939, Mark escaped Nazi persecution, along with his mother and sister, by hiding in the forests
The writing process for Arnold was an emotionally draining, yet necessary and valuable experience. She delved into her family’s history in great depth, forcing herself to truly explore the many unimaginable life-or-death decisions that her grandmother had to make. Regardless of the pain in looking back at such harsh times, Arnold faced the past head on and the results have been extraordinary.
Since publication, Ann, her father and sister, Isabella Fiske, have experienced the journey of a lifetime sharing their family’s story with adults of all ages, as well as students throughout the northeast.
“The impact we see it making on the younger generation is amazing,” comments Arnold.
father’s story, a story where good people are the reason he is still here with us today. You see, even in the ugliest of times, goodness still exists.”
Determined to keep their father’s and the countless other affected families’ legacies alive to guide future generations, the trio is now fully focused on getting the foundation off the ground, while continuing to expand their educational tours across the northeast, speaking to students ranging
“We hope to one day be able to fund opportunities for all those that want to promote kindness and respect through Holocaust education,” says Arnold.
It was during their educational visits, however, that they were dismayed to discover one of the biggest current obstacles for schools regarding Holocaust education – budget restraints.
“I recall being at a school that wanted to purchase a classroom set of books. In order to receive donations, they had to ask the local synagogue sisterhood.”
This shocking reality has led to their most recent endeavor: a grass roots effort to establish the Mark Schonwetter Holocaust Education Foundation. The mission of this foundation is to raise funds to enable schools nationally to apply for grants that will help provide access to materials and funding programs for enhanced Holocaust curriculums.
“We realized the strong need for funding this type of education,” explains Arnold. “Our goal and message every time we go out to speak is to promote teaching kindness and respect through Holocaust education and retelling my
From donations for school grants, to fundraisers on social media platforms, hosted cocktail parties and other social events, there are countless ways that people have already shown their support for the foundation and its overall quest to spread positivity in the world.
“When we visit schools, we often receive hand-written letters from the students and teachers telling us about the impact that we have made,” explains Arnold.
“This makes it all worth it.”
The more people that become involved in the Mark Schonwetter Holocaust Education Foundation and its tireless mission, the more of an impact they will continue to make. Most recently, in honor of the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, Mark, Ann and Isabella were invited to the third hour of NBC’s the Today Show, leading to a great amount of exposure for the foundation.
“We tell our audiences that they have a choice in this world,” says Arnold. “We have chosen to spread the message of respect and kindness. We hope that others will do the same, so that one day our voices will be louder than the voices of violence and hate.”
To learn more about the Mark Schonwetter Holocaust Education Foundation and how you can get involved, visit www.mshefoundation.org.
58 East Palisade Ave., Englewood (201) 894-1826
He’ll never miss a Zoom call again with this BVLGARI Aluminum watch – which features mechanical manufacture movement, automatic winding, chronograph, 40 mm aluminum and titanium case, black rubber bezel with BVLGARI engraving, gray dial and black rubber bracelet – on his wrist. Bonus: it’s water-resistant up to 100 meters, so keep washing those hands.
Netali Nissim Fortuna bracelets in vermeil and enamel, upper. Prices start at $160, available in various colors. Shop these online or in-store at Goldstein Jewelers.
811 Franklin Lake Road, Franklin Lakes
Shock them with one of the season’s hottest looks –Italian designer’s trending pleated skirt in winter white
Eric Alt Salon
67 Allendale Ave., Saddle River (201) 251-2222 • EricAltSalon.com
Give the gift that says I love you, but, girl, you need your ALT Haircare helps create a luxury experience at home for you. Alt brushes are tangle free and seamless, so they won’t pull or snag on your luxurious locks. Prices range from $25-$97.
... and girls in the best selection of prints around is available at Marcia’s Attic For Kids this holiday season. Don’t want to go to the store? No problem! Call them to order and take advantage of their complimentary holiday gift wrap and local delivery.
local restaurants. As the backbone of our community, this is just another way we can help them in these tough times. Purchase a gift card to your favorite eateries and give the gift of deliciousness while helping your favorite neighborhood hotspots survive everything 2020 has thrown at them.
Cosmetic Bag
Gift consciously this year with these earthy watercolor cosmetic bags, personalized for your loved one. Choose from two sizes and
Neck Gaiter
Warm your neck as you stay safe this winter! This face covering
ocean conservation – an artful multipurpose accessory.
long after the holidays are over. New to Venus et Fleur is the “Mixed Eternity Flowers” ($489). It is a lush abundant mix of roses, hydrangeas and gardenias set in a classic handmade porcelain vase. It is a wonderful gift for the special
They are available in shades of pink and shades of white as well. Shop Venus et Fleur at Garden State Plaza on Level 2 near Neiman Marcus or online at https://tinyurl.com/ y6x8wyho.
your holiday shopping list? Look no further, Godiva has you covered. The Gold Collection Appreciation Gift Set ($207) has a whopping 137 luscious pieces of chocolate in
such as ganache’s, pralines, caramels and fruits. This is sure to be a pleaser. Shop Godiva Café at Garden State Plaza on Level 2 near Lord & Taylor or online at https://tinyurl.
back to the gym just yet? Head on over and speak to a member of the Peloton team. The brand just launched a new bike, called the BIKE + and The
point model that is smaller than the original. Bonus, whether you decided
giver ever! Shop Peloton at Garden State Plaza on Level 1 near Neiman Marcus or online at OnePeloton.com/Treads.
from $30-$250. Shop Anthropologie at Garden State Plaza on Level 1 near Neiman Marcus or online – https://tinyurl.com/yxd9alap (Sunbeam Dominoes Set).
thing comfortable and cozy. At Club Monaco, you can pick up his ($298) and hers ($329) cashmere hoodies. These luxe sweaters are ideal for lounging with a pair of joggers, or upgrade with a pair of denim and boots.
Check in the store for color options. Shop Club Monaco in Garden State Plaza on Level 2 near Neiman Marcus or online at https://tinyurl. com/y6b695xj (his) and https://tinyurl.com/ yyxvmtod (hers).
This year join forces with other like-minded individuals and organizations, such as the ones that follow, to continue Bergen County’s long-standing spirit of caring commitment to improving our communities and all of those who call it home.
Center For Food Action of New Jersey 192 West Demarest Ave., Englewood, NJ 07631
Contact: Executive Director Patricia Espy
Phone: (201) 569-1804, ext. 24
Email: pespy@cfanj.org
Web: www.cfanj.org
Mission: The organization’s goal is to prevent hunger and homelessness and to improve the lives of individuals and families. It provides emergency food, utility and housing assistance, advocacy, counseling services and access to other commubrighter future.
Habitat For Humanity of Bergen County 121 Carver Ave., Westwood, NJ 07675
Contact: Executive Director Maureen Cameron
Phone: (201) 457-1020
Email: info@habitatbergen.org
Web: www.habitatbergen.org
Mission: Habitat For Humanity of Bergen County for Humanity International. Its mission is to provide decent, affordable homes for hardworking Bergen County families.
New Concepts For Living
68A West Passaic St., Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Contact: Associate Executive Director
Adam Fishman
Phone: (201) 843-3427
Email:
Web:
Mission: New Concepts For Living is a commuwith disabilities and their families. Inspired by the vision of families and consumers, New Concepts enables people to realize their dreams and achieve their individual potential through quality community program supports and services.
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) 1 Bergen County Plaza, Suite 440, Hackensack, NJ 07601
Contact: Executive Director Lucy Rosen
Phone: (201) 336-7520
Email: Lucy@bergencasa.org
Web: www.bergencasa.org
Mission: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) For Children of Bergen County is an indeand trained volunteers who have been appointed by the NJ Family Court to advocate for children removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect. CASA works to ensure that needed services and assistance are made available to these children while helping to move them toward safe and permanent homes.
Multiple Sclerosis Care Center
Holy Name Hospital
718 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666
Contact:
Phone: (201) 833-3000, ext. 3899
Email: futterman@holyname.org
Web: www.holyname.org/mscenter
Mission: The Multiple Sclerosis Care Center isviding healthcare and related services to patients with MS regardless of their ability to pay.
Hope For Children Research Foundation
700D Lake St., Ramsey, NJ 07446
Contact: Executive Director Meg Minassian Phone: (201) 962-8686
Email: cgf01@aol.com
Web: www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org
Mission: new treatments and cures for children with neurological diseases. The foundation hopes a doctor will never again have to say to a mother or father, “Take your child home; there’s nothing we can do.”
Pet ResQ, Inc.
NJ 07670
Contact: Founder Robyn Urman
Phone: (201) 450-5992
Email: petresqinc123@gmail.com
Web: www.petresqinc.org
Mission: Pet ResQ, Inc. is a small group of volunteers who believe that all living creatures deserve a change. They exist solely on donations and the efforts of volunteers and foster homes. They tend to rescue the elderly and handicapped pets that otherwise would not stand a chance at life.
Children’s Cardiomyopathy Foundation
Contact: Founding President & Executive Director Lisa Yue
Phone: (866) 808-2873, ext. 901
Email: lyue@childrenscardiomyopathy.org
Web: www.childrenscardiomyopathy.org
Mission: The Children’s Cardiomyopathy Founda-
pediatric cardiomyopathy, a chronic and potentially life-threatening disease of the heart muscle, through the support of research, education and increased awareness and advocacy.
Sharsheret
1086 Teaneck Road, Suite 2G, Teaneck, NJ 07666
Contact: Executive Director Elana Silber
Phone: (201) 833-2341
Email: esilber@sharsheret.org
Web: www.sharsheret.org
Mission:
organization supporting young Jewish women and their families facing breast cancer. Their mission is to offer a community of support to woman of all Jewish backgrounds diagnosed with breast cancer or at an increased genetic risk by fostering culturally relevant individualized connections with networks of peers, health professionals and related resources.
Pony Power Therapies
1170 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430
Contact: Founder & Executive Director
Donna Spett
Phone: (201) 934-1001
Email: dana@ponypowernj.org
Web: www.ponypowernj.org
Mission:
organization giving special needs and at-risk children and adults a unique opportunity to ride, care for and interact with horses. The riding and non-riding activities enhance individuals’ physical, social and emotional wellbeing in a safe, nurturing farm environment.
200 Club of Bergen County 560 Hudson St., Hackensack, NJ 07601
Contact: President Jack Terhune
Phone: (201) 229-0600
Email: info@200club.org
Web: www.200club.org
Mission:
emergency personnel who die or are seriously injured in the line of duty. Their motto is “serving our servants.”
Heightened Independence & Progress (hip) 131 Main St., Suite 120, Hackensack, NJ 07601
Contact: President/CEO Brian Fitzgibbons
Phone: (201) 996-9011, ext. 14
Email:
Web: www.hipcil.org
Mission: Heightened Independence & Progress
disabilities. With Centers For Independent Living in Bergen and Hudson counties, hip’s mission is to empower people with disabilities to achieve independent living through outreach, advocacy and education. hip offers wide-ranging programs and services to people with disabilities of all ages.
Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund’s New Jersey Metro and Rockland County Chapter 1480 U.S. Highway 9 North, Suite 306, Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Contact: Executive Director Taran Connelly
Phone: (732) 379-8903
Email: tconnelly@jdrf.org
Web: www.jdrf.org/newjerseymetro
Mission:
complications through the support of research while providing support for those living with Type 1 Diabetes and their families in the community.
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637 Wyckoff Ave., Suite 285, Wyckoff, NJ 07481
Contact: President Christine Callahan
Phone: (201) 675-9961
Email:
Web:
Mission: -
dedicated to improving the lives of terminally and chronically ill children and their families. The foundation honors the memory of 6-year-old Julia Marie Bommer, who passed away in 2005 following her brave battle against a rare kidney disorder. It is the foundation’s goal to pay tribute to Julia’s life by helping other children and their families struggling with the demands of their unique circumstances. The foundation is humbled by the courage and dedication of the children and caregivers they support, and consider it a privilege services to those who need it most.
Tomorrows Children’s Fund (TCF)
30 Prospect Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601
Contact:
Phone: (551) 996-5504
Email: nkelly@tcfkid.org
Web: www.tcfkid.org
Mission: The Tomorrows Children’s Fund was founded by a group of committed parents to help their children and others like them with cancer and serious blood disorders. With the help of friends and supporters, today, TCF provides a warm, healthy and loving environment for children in treatment, a full scope of services to relieve fami-
belief that through hope, hard work and heartfelt generosity, extraordinary things are possible.
bergenPAC (Performing Arts Center)
30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ 07631
Contact: President & CEO Dominic Roncace
Phone: (201) 816-8160
Email: droncace@bergenpac.org
Web: www.bergenpac.org
Mission: To make the live performing arts accessible, and to speak to the lives of its diverse community. bergenPAC builds a creative home for artists of excellence and relevance, who entertain and enlighten, inspire and inform audiences.
West Bergen Mental Health
120 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Contact:
Barbara Hand
Phone: (201) 444-3550
Email: bhand@westbergen.org
Web: www.westbergen.org
Mission: The agency’s mission is to treat severe mental illness in children and adults and promote psychological health and personal growth. It provides comprehensive treatment and supportive services for clients and the surrounding community.
The Volunteer Center of Bergen County 64 Passaic St., Hackensack, NJ 07601
Contact: CEO Nina Bachrach
Phone: (201) 489-9454, ext. 201
Email: nbachrach@bergenvolunteers.org
Web: www.bergenvolunteers.org
Mission: The Volunteer Center of Bergen County strengthens the community by connecting people with opportunities to serve, operating model volunteer programs, building capacity for effective volunteering and participating in strategic partnerships that meet community needs.
The Community Chest
122 S. Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ 07631
Contact: Executive Director Dr. Shelly Wimpfheimer
Phone: (201) 568-7474
Email: shelly@communitychestofenglewood.org
Web: www.communitychestofenglewood.org
Mission: The Community Chest raises funds and allocates them to agencies demonstrating the capacity to provide services to residents and provides coordinating and planning services in Ena range of needs, including hunger, afterschool programming, elderly care, career counseling for women, mental health services, environmental education and medical care to low-income pregnant women.
The Comedy Cures Foundation
Contact: Founder Saranne Rothberg
Phone: (201) 227-8410
Email: info@comedycures.org
Web: www.comedycures.org
Mission: The Comedy Cures Foundation is a na-
ter and therapeutic humor programs to kids and grown-ups living with illness, depression, trauma and disabilities.
Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc. (RBARI)
2 Shelter Lane, Oakland, NJ 07436
Contact: Executive Director Megan Boyle
Phone: (201) 337-5180
Email: adoptlove@rbari.org
Web: www.rbari.org
Mission: RBARI believes that all animals have a natural right to humane treatment, including proper care, respect and safe shelter. Their pripermanent, loving homes for the many animals
that arrive in their shelter, including feral, elderly, handicapped and formerly abused animals. Animals in their care receive lots of love, shelter, food and medical care. RBARI adheres to a “no-kill” policy, giving animals an open-ended stay at a warm, safe place until loving homes can be found.
Youth Consultation Services (YCS) Foundation
235 Main St., Third Floor, Hackensack, NJ 07601
Contact: President/CEO Tara Augustine
Phone: (201) 678-1312
Email: taugustine@ycs.org
Web: www.ycs.org
Mission: AT YCS, the mission is to advocate, educate, shelter and care for children in need and their families so that each can further develop the skills, self-worth and hope necessary for success within their communities.
Family Promise of Bergen County
100 Dayton St., Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Contact:
Phone: (201) 833-8009
Email: kduggan@bergenfamilypromise.org
Web: www.bergenfamilypromise.org
Mission: To provide hospitality to the homeless and to keep families together in times of crisis, guiding them through temporary periods of homelessness by helping them create an achievable vision and develop a strong foundation for
North Jersey Friendship Home
125 Atlantic St., Hackensack, NJ 07601
Contact:
Leonard J. Nicolosi, MBA
Phone: (201) 488-2121
Email: lnicolosi@njfriendshiphouse.org
Web: www.njfriendshiphouse.org
Mission: To maximize the independence and community living skills of persons experiencing severe and persistent mental illness, in order to reduce unnecessary hospitalization, secure other health and welfare services, as required by each individual referred to Friendship House for treatment, and to render assistance voluntarily in a safe, comfortable environment. Friendship House is a nonbehavioral health services, vocational training and employment support for adults with all types of disabilities. Services are designed to address the unique needs and goals of every individual.
New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera P.O. Box 3024, Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Contact: President Dr. James Garvin
Phone: (201) 886-0561
Email: info@verismoopera.org
Web: www.verismoopera.org
Mission: New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera’s mission is: 1) to enhance the cultural life of the community by providing a complete range
and, in particular, grand opera; 3) to educate and
to provide performance opportunities to musicians and offer study grants to young performing artists.
The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation 1701 Tower Drive, Edgewater, NJ 07020
Contact: Founder and Executive Director
Linda J. Walder, Esq.
Phone: (877) 444-1149
Email:
Web:
Mission: The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation,
organization in the United States to focus on adult autism has been blazing trails since 2002. It cre-
lives. The endowed programs at America’s leading universities, resources, and public policy/awareness initiatives are person-centered and derive from the needs and hopes of the diverse population of adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.
The Jewish Family Home Foundation of North Jersey, Inc. 10 Link Drive, Rockleigh, NJ 07647
Contact: President and CEO Carol Silver Elliott
Phone: (201) 750-4230
Email: celliott@jewishhomefamily.org
Web: www.jewishhomefamily.org
Mission: The mission of the Jewish Home Foundation of North Jersey, Inc. is to provide of the Jewish Home Family, Jewish Home at Rockleigh, Jewish Home Assisted Living, Jewish Home at Home and Jewish Home and Rehabilitation Center. The purpose is to make healthcare, charitable efforts available to the seniors, the elto the individuals’ ability to pay. Alzheimer’s New Jersey - Northern NJ 07649
Contact: President and CEO
Phone: (201) 261-6009
Email: kzaentz@alznj.org
Web: www.alznj.org
Mission: Alzheimer’s New Jersey, formerly known as Alzheimer’s Association, Greater New Jersey
(continued)
Chapter, provides programs and services to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, their families and caregivers who live in Bergen County and the 13 other New Jersey counties. Association programs and services include education and training, support groups, respite assistance and a toll-free telephone, HelpLine.
Adler Aphasia Center
60 West Hunter Ave., Maywood, NJ 07607
Contact: President & CEO Naomi Gerwirtz, MSW
Phone: (201) 368-8585
Email: ngewirtz@adleraphasiacenter.org
Web: www.adleraphasiacenter.org
Mission: The Adler Aphasia Center’s mission is to be a vital resource to anyone whose life or profession is touched by aphasia. Aphasia is a language disorder that impairs the expression and understanding of spoken language, reading and writing. It occurs most often form a stroke or brain injury. This condition affects a person’s ability to communicate, but does not affect their intellect. Adler Aphasia Center provides people with aphasia the assistance they need in regaining basic communication skills, as well as their self-esteem and self-
Center For Hope and Safety
12 Overlook Ave., Suite A, Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Contact: Executive Director Julie Myner, PhD
Phone: (201) 498-9247, ext. 301
Email: julye@hopeandsafetynj.org
Web: www.hopeandsafetynj.org
Mission: Center For Hope and Safety’s mission is to assist women and children who are victims of domestic violence, including emotional, economic, sexual and physical abuse. The agency provides emergency and transitional housing, -
uum of services focused on safety, empowerment
55 West Demarest Ave., Englewood, NJ 07631
Contact: Director Donald Wuertz
Phone: (201) 568-1465
Email:
Web:
Mission: serves “the poorest of the poor” in northern New Jersey by supplementing their food and other basic needs with bags of food each week. Food packages contain canned goods and other non-perishables, as well as fresh poultry, fruit and vegetables and dairy products. St. Cecilia’scern Food Pantry, but the pantry is independentless of religion, race or culture. They are open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each week, they move 4.5 tons of food from their
750 needy families. The 501 (c)(3) organization is staffed by dedicated, unpaid volunteers, who operate through the generosity of foundations, businesses, churches, schools, community organizations and individuals.
The Friends of the Hermitage, Inc.
NJ 07423
Contact: President Michael Orbe
Phone: (201) 445-8311
Email: info@thehermitage.org
Web: www.thehermitage.org
Mission: The Friends of the Hermitage, Inc. was established to restore, maintain and interpret The Hermitage, along with its grounds and outbuildings. Their mission is not only to provide these
services, but also to communicate to a diverse audience of students, scholars and the general public, the site, its archives and its collections as they relate to local, regional and national history beginning in 1740.
Girl Scouts Council of Northern New Jersey
300 Forest Ave., Paramus, NJ 07652
Contact:
Phone: (973) 248-8200
Email: bgarger@gsnnj.org
Web: www.gsnnj.org
Mission: Girl Scouting helps girls develop their full individual potential; relate to others with increasing understanding, skill and respect; develop values to guide their actions and provide the foundation for sound decision-making; and contribute to the improvement of society through their abilities, leadership skills and cooperation with others. The Girl Scouts Council serves one in every four girls in 61 Bergen County towns, over 13,000 girls. Girls, ages 5-17, meet in age-level groups on a regular basis or they may participate in short term activities, special interest groups, neighborhood activity centers or camping.
Northern New Jersey Community Foundation (NNJCF)
1 Grand Ave. Suite 3, Englewood, NJ 07631
Phone: (201) 568-5608
Email: nnjcf@nnjcf.org
Web: www.nnjcf.org
Mission: NNJCF focuses on civic engagement, education, public health and the arts by working with local governments, school districts, busicommunity life. Foundation partners identify and resolve regional problems and opportunities by sharing ideas, services and resources. The ArtsBer-
gen initiative supports and encourages creative place making, the integration of arts and culture into an area to build community and boost the local economy.
Advance Housing, Inc.
100 Hollister Road, Teterboro, NJ 07608
Contact: President & CEO Carolyn Jaime
Phone: (201) 498-9140
Email: cjaime@advancehousing.org
Web: www.advancehousing.org
Mission: The mission of Advance Housing, Inc. is to expand the range and scope of supportive housing opportunities available to persons with psychiatric disabilities. In addition, Advance Housing, Inc. seeks to make similar options and services available to other individuals who are in need of supportive housing. The array of outreach services, designed to help people live independently and productively in the community, will exceed the highest standards of professional practice.
Beautiful Self, Inc.
P.O. Box 241, Allendale, NJ 07401
Contact: Founder Michele Bonacorte
Phone: (201) 818-8753
Email: info@beautifulself.org
Web: www.beautifulself.org
Mission: Feeling beautiful and being able to love yourself is considered a luxury by most. Beautiful Self, Inc. is a unique therapeutic, transformational experience that peels back the layers of insecurities to expose self-love and acceptance by changing perception of inner beauty and power. Beautiful Self, Inc. believes a woman’s self-worth is essential to how she navigates and contributes to the community around her.
By Brandon Goldstein
AMC HOTEL DETAILS:
ADDRESS: PHONE NUMBER: (844) 624-6835
DINNER AT ALLEGORY: Wednesdays through Saturdays, both inside and outside, from 5-10 p.m.
BRUNCH AT ALLEGORY: Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
cultural hub of New Jersey, Montclair has long been a quick escape from Bergen County for its many restaurants, art galleries, large scale events and more. Now, the new MC Hotel is gift wrapping all those features under one roof and providing excellent hospitality to boot.
Not only does the MC Hotel now stand as Montclair’s largest art gallery, but its close proximity to Bergen County and chic design features will have you feeling like you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of Bergen – even if it only took you a 20-minute drive to experience that bliss.
The MC Hotel is part of the Aparium Hotel Group portfolio, which consists of seven awardwinning boutique hotels across the U.S, but its ease of access lies in its membership under the Mar-
riot Bonvoy umbrella.
As a Marriot Bonvoy member, The MC Hotel joins a growing list of over 6,700 properties around the world that must meet a certain standard of accommodations, all the while giving you greater access, discounts and rewards for your stay, backed by one of the largest hospitality organizations in the world.
Art abounds at the MC, with a thriving community of local artists in Montclair, it’s easy to see how the MC could become the epicenter of local culture, even in its short time as a hotel. As part of the MC’s vision, they’ve invited many local artists to share their vision. In response, the MC’s lobby has transformed into a large, open spaced gallery reminding you of the more modern museums right across the river in NYC.
From the minute you enter, you’d be hard pressed not to notice the many sculptures and paintings perched above you in the MC’s high-ceiling lobby. Small descriptions of each piece give a little insight to the local artist who helped get it there, and because of the MC’s dedication to its art community, that group of painters, sculptors, candle makers and mixed media artists has continued to grow – and been taken under its wing by the MC.
Whatever your reason for staying at the MC Hotel, there’s a
ready to welcome you, and even their guest rooms that have multiple beds have queens, over
the industry standard double. But each room in its minimalist vision, provides the perfect amount of comfort with style, striking a balance that quickly makes you forget you’re still in New Jersey at all, and not, let’s say, in one of Miami’s newest boutique hotels.
While COVID has certainly affected the hotel industry, the MC has found ways to make your stay more comfortable while also ensuring the safety of their staff. For instance, each guest room is
blocked out for three days after someone stays, giving the area a proper grace period before a thorough cleaning where even the TV remote is placed in a sterilized bag, ensuring your hands are the
Small details like that, as well as the welcoming candles provided in each room by local Rose Powell, who as an 8-year-old began a handcrafted candle company with her father. Now a mature 11, Rose has created two signature
scents for the MC called Uptown Gardens & Downtown Jazz, exclusively for the hotel and found in every guest room.
Even if you’re considering bringing the family over for a quick stay, the MC has accommodations perfectly suited, including suites with pullout couches and balconies – some offering views of neighboring Manhattan. If the
views don’t do it, the complimenstreaming services available are sure to keep the kids busy.
If you choose not to even step off the property’s grounds during your stay, the food options are more than capable of keeping
First, the MC Hotel’s market, located in the lobby, has an eclectic
mix of familiar brands as well as a further spotlight on local goods, such as the organic juice maker, Juice Basin’s line of pressed, organic juices. Great Notch Coffee Roasters and options from Montclair Brewery further help drive the community focus of the MC.
If you’re looking for a bit more
restaurant, Allegory. The chic, ground level restaurant focuses on “clean, healthy cooking” garnering inspiration from locally sourced ingredients with produce from the Montclair Farmers’ Market. Championed by new executive chef, Amber Lancaster, Allegory has resumed dinner service (after pausing since March) with a brand-new fall menu.
A Tucson native, Chef Lancaster honed her culinary craft abroad where she worked as a private chef in Paris and held positions at the Michelin-rated French dining destination, Restaurant Guy Savoy, the historic luxury hotel, Hôtel de Crillon, and mostly recently in Chicago at Soho House and Alinea.
Starting Nov. 5, Allegory’s outdoor dining will include space heaters and custom designed space blankets from Aqua Panna and San Pellegrino that will be dry cleaned and individually bagged to maximize guest comfort and safety. With seemingly no end in sight to outdoor dining being the more preferred means of
consumption of locals and guests, The MC is once again rising to their standards of accommodations to meet guests’ expectation on comfort in these trying times.
Some new menu items for the upcoming months include butternut squash agnolotti and ricotta gnudi, as well as chicken Cassoulet – a half roasted chicken served with smoked ham hock, cannelloni beans, carrots and trumpet mushrooms. In its short year open, even MC’s culinary vision has remained in line with the reputation Montclair has built of itself as a culinary dynamo in the middle of New Jersey.
The MC Hotel rooftop bar ALTO, the only rooftop bar in Montclair, will also be open for outdoor and indoor dining this winter with the very same space heaters and blankets to compliment Chef Lancaster’s savory bar bites and innovative cocktails. The vibe here is city like, and on any given night a who’s who of Montclair residents blends seamlessly with travelers looking for a night cap.
With 25 percent capacity, reservations are strongly recommended at Alto & Allegory, and we’d be remiss not to talk about one of Chef Lancaster’s crowning triumphs: the Allegory brunch French toast.
Chef Lancaster wouldn’t give away too many secrets about her brioche French toast, only that to perfect it, it’s a threeday process. Order this seem-
ingly ubiquitous brunch item, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised that it’s nothing like your mother’s breakfast French toast, but an intricate play on that classic that will dazzle your taste buds. Wash it down with one of Allegory’s seven signature brunch cocktails, including the typical Bloody Mary, but showcasing craftiness in items like the Orange & Bloom, with orchard apricot, lemon eucalyptus and champagne, sure to have your morning starting off on the right foot.
After all the indulging, the MC for the right equipment to even give a gym rat a proper workout, and the beautifully spacious walk in showers in each guest room, combined with locally crafted soaps and body washes, will refresh you instantly.
No longer must you travel across the river or down to Atlantic City for a fun night out. With Montclair continuing to be a growing cultural hub of New Jersey already steeped in a deep-rooted history going back hundreds of years, it’s easy to see why a boutique hotel would blend seamlessly into the small city’s growing footprint.
Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or just a beautiful rooftop experience without having to head into Manhattan or pay its prices, the MC Hotel has a little bit of everything that will make your short stay comfortable, memorable and delicious.
By Ralph C. Napoli, DPM
The Achilles tendon is the thickest, largest and strongest tendon in the human body. It attaches to the back of the heel and is the primary ankle joint walk and run. of the tendon itself and must be differentiated from more serious conditions, such as a partial tear, degeneration (tendinosis) or complete rupture. Injuries to the Achilles categories: acute and chronic. The increase in concern for physi-
increase in the number of people walking, running and playing sports has led to a corresponding increase in Achilles tendon injuries. This has never been more evident than during the current pandemic where everyone seems to be outside walking and exercising.
Running is the sport most commonly associated with Achilles tendonitis. Other sports including soccer, basketball, tennis and volleyball are also associated with a high incidence of Achilles tendon pathology.
There are numerous etiologies for developing Achilles tendonitis with a combination of two or more factors more commonly observed. Possible causes include overuse injuries; biomechanical abnormalities, or high arches; training errors, such as sudden increases in training intensity, or duration changes, such as running uphill or on uneven terrain or hard surfaces, and often times faulty shoe gear. In the more chronic condition systemic conditions, such as Diabetes or Rheumatoid Arthritis, need to be considered.
The diagnosis of Achilles tendonitis is usually made on the basis of the history and physical exam. It usually presents with a gradual onset of pain that progressively worsens with activity. The pain is often greater upon
rising in the morning and then gradually subsides. Crepitus or a grinding feeling along the tendon is often felt. Early in the course of the injury, pain is usually only felt during strenuous activity. As the injury becomes more chronic, pain is felt even at rest.
Treatment in the acute stage typically consists of rest, activity
matory medications, stretching exercises and ice massage. These treatments are used to
tion. Etiologic factors are also considered including advise to the patient on proper training methods, surfaces and shoe wear. For the more chronic condition heel lifts, orthotics and prolonged physical therapy may be necessary for a 3-4-month period and, if not, successful surgical intervention may be necessary.
Achilles tendinosis is a more chronic condition that is char-
acterized by microscopic tears or degeneration of the tendon. Many patients and doctors alike confuse the term Achilles tendinitis with tendinosis. Whereas ten-tion tendinosis is a degenerative condition characterized by pain and thickening of the tendon just medications are usually not effective. An MRI is often ordered to assess the extent of damage to the tendon. Treatment for this more chronic condition typically includes a walking boot for several weeks, physical therapy, platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections and ultimately surgery in recalcitrant conditions.
In summary, Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that usually responds well to conservative treatments, unlike Achilles tendinosis which is a more chronic condition that requires more aggressive treatments. In both conditions, treatment may be prolonged, but should be continued as long as progress is being made. In recalcitrant cases, excellent results have been obtained with surgical repair.
If symptoms persist for more than 1-2 weeks, then evaluation by a foot and ankle specialist is recommended.
Ralph C. Napoli, DPM is a boardOrthopedics & Sports Medicine.
By Richard Posluszny
In the rough and tumble world of automobiles, it’s not every day that a manufacturer steps outside of their comfort zone. That’s because there’s an immense amount of risk involved. When you consider the billions of dollars invested in research and development – per model, mind you – it becomes apparent why these companies, more often than not, take a risk averse approach.
But we’re starting to see automaers swing for the fences in the 21st century. This is due to evolving conwhat buyers are seeking. Space and utility are luxuries that consumers will pay all the money for. That’s the name of the game in auto sales: Maximize your margin and do it in volume. So, it’s no surprise that exotic brands have turned to sport-utility vehicles to fatten up their top and bottom lines. This neatly brings us to our subject,
Where the Urus truly shines though is inside. Opening its frameless door, you’re greeted with a waft of leather steering wheel.
the Lamborghini Urus. Although some folks cried foul at its announcement, I thought this is where things get interesting.
People seem to forget that the founder of the storied Italian marque – Ferruccio Lamborghini – actually started out building tractors and that it previously produced an SUV in the mid 1980s until the early 1990s. It was called the LM002, which isn’t exactly a memorable name like, say, Countach, Jalpa or Diablo. Long story short, there’s more to the Lamborghini story aside from the V12 supercars it’s known for.
Upon picking up my test vehicle from Lamborghini Paramus, I was pleasantly surprised. That’s because I actually liked the way it looked. Originally, it wasn’t my cup of tea. It’s normal for vehicles to not have their best showing in photographs. While I still am not a fan of the “tuning forks” found in its air intakes, I did like its crouched stance and the Urus’
Although Lamborghini’s press materials try to tie its exterior design to elements of its previous vehicles like the LM002, Countach, Miura and Aventador, I don’t see it. What I do see, however, is more of a likeness to the Estoque concept vehicle with some of those vehicle’s lines – see its side
tion form.
All in, it’s not as wild or as
extreme looking as its supercar siblings that seem inspired by the B2 bomber. But, damn, the Urus has a presence when you get up close and personal.
Where the Urus truly shines though is inside. Opening its frameless door, you’re greeted with a waft of leather and a chunky,ing by its initial quality, this isn’t an experience like the Lamborghinis of yore that felt more akin to a well-trimmed kit car. There’s a full TFT display serving as your instrument panel (IP) and in the center stack there’s two goodsized touchscreens. Up top is your infotainment and on the bottom are your HVAC controls and other “buttons” you can customize to your liking. The technology used is clearly Audi MMI, however, Lamborghini did totally reskin the software and add some
provide a unique user experience. This is readily apparent in the IP, which provides a variety of visualizations depending on the driving mode selected.
Looking around in the cockpit, there’s an overwhelming sense of luxury. The tactful use of materials from the leather to the Alcantara to the aluminum bits to the open pore wood are all impressive. My test vehicle was optioned with 18-way seats that adjusted in just about every way and featured heating, cooling and massage functions. There’s space in all
directions, even for my 6-foot, 8-inch stature, with plenty of room for adults in the second row. Lastly, for the geeks there’s a full connectivity suite. As a music lover, my favorite option was the upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system. It rings the register at over $6,300 dollars but if you’re an audiophile then this is a “gotta have it” feature.
All of this tech, detail and quirk does have some drawbacks, however. That would be the
ergonomics, which take some getting used to. You don’t need a computer science degree but certain tasks, such as selecting gears, will require retraining your muscle memory. Also, the overuse of the hexagon theme is a bit tacky but at least the designers were consistent as they splashed it everywhere.
To be honest though, these minor indiscretions sort of disap-
the red cover and push the Urus’
in production form. i d tif coming to life
Start button, this Lamborghini reminds you it is unlike any other SUV you may have piloted before. Although the 4.0-liter, turbocharged V8’s block is borrowed from the Volkswagen Group, the raging bull did extensive work to make this engine its own.
I have to admit when I originally glanced at the Urus’ speci-
Cayenne Turbo S that’s been stylized.” Well, today I am here to eat
crow. Make it a double order.
That’s because the Lamborghini Urus is one of my favorite vehicles I’ve ever driven.
Cutting to the chase, it’s be-
Typically, when a manufacturer attempts to make a high-performance SUV it botches the job. The chassis is too rigid with a far-too-stiff suspension, and it’s unbearable around town or over a city’s pockmarked roads. Lamborghini waved a magic wand
though and the Urus executes any
With six driving modes that are selectable via the centrally located “Tamburo,” you have options. There’s Strada (Normal), Sport, Corsa (Track), Sabbia (Sand), Terra (Off-road) and Neve (Snow). If you want to mix and match you can select Ego and time swapping between Strada and Corsa.
In Strada, you’d hardly believe you’re driving a 650 horsepower and 627 lb.-ft. V8 monster. You honestly don’t even notice the motor spinning at times. The Urus quietly pulls you down the street and somehow bumps are isolated even though my test vehicle was equipped with 22-inch wheels. Its air suspension makes you feel along. Here, the Urus is blissfully uneventful.
Pull the Tamburo two times
Zero to 60 comes in a scant 3.5 seconds and when you step on the throttle you’ll believe it.
though and it’s a wildly different story. It feels as though the Urus comes alive. The IP changes to
exhaust note gets louder and the vehicle lowers with sporting intentions. This is what you paid over $200,000 for.
Zero to 60 comes in a scant 3.5 seconds and when you step on the throttle you’ll believe it. The power pushes you into the seat as the Urus’ four-wheel drive keeps the vehicle stuck to the asphalt. While this Lamborghini uses an eight-speed automatic transmission, it’s hard to believe it. That’s because it snaps shifts at the click of a paddle. It’s awfully satisfying.
Where I was truly awestruck though was just how well this 4,800 pound SUV handles. When I took the Urus on a very spirited drive on my usual test route, it blew me away. Body roll is kept completely in check and its four-
wheel steering makes this bull feel extremely nimble. Even better though: There’s a bit of drama as you feel the Urus get a touch squirmy.
Translation: It’s a lot of fun. These giggles do come at a price though. First, at the pumps. I achieved 13 mpg during my time with the Lamborghini. Given its power output and heft though, I don’t think it was too tragic, actually. If you want to save the Earth, go get a Prius or Tesla. Second, it’s not a cheap vehicle but I don’t think you suspected it would be. My tester cost just a touch above a quarter million dollars.
This does bring up a legitimate problem for the Urus though. Audi makes an SUV dubbed the RSQ8, which looks awfully similar on paper to the Urus. If you squint its exterior design even has a similar shape. The difference?
discount when compared to the Urus.
What it doesn’t have though is
the Urus, uniquely, a raging bull. Choose wisely.
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By Kevin Czerwinski
The expectations of
hearing a jukebox playing Elvis Presley, seeing teenage girls wearing poodle skirts and running into a beat cop getting a cup of coffee aren’t too farfetched when walking into the Red Maple Luncheonette.
The eatery has been a staple Closter for nearly 70 years and not much has changed at the luncheonette in the north end of the town’s business district since the days of ducktails, hot rods and “The Honeymooners.” The Red Maple represents a simpler, more quiet time, and while there is certainly a great deal of outside “noise” with which to contend these days, that noise seems to fade for the hour or so you spend at the luncheonette’s counter or in one of its booths. Proprietor Charlie DiMaria does his best to serve not only some of the best food in North Jersey, but to also provide a slice of Americana that is DiMaria, 68, hasn’t been with the Red Maple since it opened, but on Nov. 1 he did celebrate his 30th anniversary as the luncheonette’s owner, chief cook and bottle washer. He knows just about everyone in town, by sight if not by name, and can rattle off what their “usual”
is whenever they stop in for breakfast or lunch.
“This place is like the 1950s,” said DiMaria, who is the Red Maple’s 10th and longesttenured owner. “We’ve painted and added some pictures, but we haven’t done much. When I
and be gone. I just never left. I don’t miss a day usually, except for two weeks of vacation in the summer and major holidays. And, I did close last year on a Saturday when my daughter got married.
“I was a painting contractor before [owning the luncheon-
He knows just about everyone in town, by sight if not by name, and can rattle off what their “usual” is whenever they stop in for breakfast or lunch.
ette] and when the business split up, I didn’t want to paint on my own,” explained DiMaria.” “So, I went to the realtor and talked with him about what stores were for sale and he told me about
egg, you’ve got it made. The girls [that worked here] could do everything else. As soon as I opened the door, though, it didn’t work out that way.”
While DiMaria says there have been ups and downs over the last three decades, he hasn’t deviated from his original business plan. He says he tries to make people what they want, make it right and don’t charge too much and “hopefully they’ll come back.”
That business strategy has pretty much worked to perfection. The Red Maple serves as one of Closter’s primary social centers. It is open six days a week – closed on Sundays –around 4 a.m. He makes the drive from his home in Pompton Plains – he’s lived there for 30 years as well after moving from Lodi – and is usually out the door by 2 p.m.
DiMaria’s day doesn’t end when he shuts down the grill, though. He’s got stops at Costco, BJ’s and other grocery outlets to pick up food and sup-
home. It adds up to a 12-hour day for DiMaria, who says he’d like to stay behind the counter
“unless the lottery gods smile on him.” After that, who knows? His wife is a retired school teacher and his two daughters have no interest in running the Red Maple.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen when I’m not here,” he said. “It’s a lot of work and not too many people want to take over and do that. When I took over I’m sure people said he can’t
be as good as the last guy but I’m here 30 years later so you never know.
“My one daughter is a teacher and she just got married last year and my other daughter lives too far away,” he continued. “It’s hard to do as much as I do and people want me here. Maybe I could train someone but I don’t know who. No young kid is going to want to do this. I’m here at four in the morning and not too many people are going to want to do that.”
“This place keeps the town together. Information gets passed around, people help each other.”
Zachowski.
Closter resident Linda Aballi agrees. She has worked at The Red Maple, which has been featured in an episode of “Law and Order SVU” as well as several television commercials, for nearly 18 years and is as much a part of the luncheonette’s fabric as DiMaria. She owned a luncheonette of her own in Closter once upon a time and when she closed her place, she headed to see DiMaria.
“This is an easy place to work,” she said. “It’s a town place and I am a townie. This place keeps the town together. Information gets passed around, people help each other; a lot of good comes out
something and help them. This place was the Internet before the Internet. People talked to each other.
“Without it, this place would be a cold town,” she continued.
“There aren’t too many places that you can go where people know who you are. We are like the TV show ‘Cheers.’ We know what people eat. We may not know all their names, but we know what they eat and drink and we miss them when they are not here.”
Mike Goodman and his wife Nitza Goodman are lifelong Closter residents. Their memories of the Red Maple date back to when they were in middle school and the time they spent at the luncheonette.
“Our middle school was a quarter of a mile away and I remember fondly going there for lunch,” Mike Goodman, 65, said. “It was the good old days when you had an hour for lunch and it was, ‘Where do you want to eat today? Let’s get a booth at The Red Maple.’ It’s amazing that it’s still open. It’s the only one that has survived.
“I think because it still has that old-time feel and has been here a long time that it draws people in,” he continued. “I’m sure it also has to do with the friendliness and traditional aspects of the place. People are drawn to the good old days.”
You can almost hear the jukebox and see the poodle skirts now.
American (Contemporary & Traditional)
The Abbey Ramsey Golf and Country Club
105 Lakeside Dr., Ramsey, 201-818-9298
Allendale Bar & Grill
67 W. Allendale Ave. Allendale, 201-327-3197
Allendale Eats
101 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale, 201-825-0110
Alt Eats Cafe
622 North Maple Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-251-2222
Bacari Grill
800 Ridgewood Rd., Washington Township, 201-358-6330
Bareburger
129 Vervalen St., Closter, 201-660-7720
The Barn
359 Sicomac Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-0108
The Barrow House
1296 Van Houten Ave., Clifton, 862-336-7070
The Bicycle Club
487 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-894-0880
Biddy O’Malley’s Irish Bistro and Bar
191 Paris Ave., Northvale, 201-564-7893
Big Papa Smokem
352 Palisades Ave., Bogota, 201-742-5704
601 From Rd., Paramus, 201-261-2355
Boom Burger
180 NJ-17, Mahwah, 201-529-1806
Brady’s at the Station 5 W. Main St., Ramsey, 201-327-9748
BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse
21 Teterboro Landing Dr., Teterboro, 551-313-7450
The Brick House
179 Godwin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-1211
Café 37 (BYOB)
37 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-857-0437
Café Amici Wyckoff (BYOB)
315 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-0198
Café Amici Ho-Ho-Kus (BYOB)
4 Sycamore Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-389-6377
Café Angelique
201-541-1010
Café Matisse (BYOB) 167 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-935-2995
City Perch Kitchen and Bar 2023 Hudson St., Fort Lee, 201-582-7101
Chakra
144 W. State Route 4, Paramus, 201-566-1530
Center Tavern
170 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-666-2200
Coach House Restaurant 55 NJ-4, Hackensack, 201-488-4999
Coffee & Cornbread Co. 1350B Queen Anne Rd., Teaneck, 201-862-0600
The Cornerstone 84 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-666-8688
Crow’s Nest 309 Vincent Ave., Hackensack, 201-342-5445
Cubby’s BBQ Restaurant 249 S. River St. Hackensack, 201-488-9389
Davey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
5 Park St., Montvale, 201-391-9356
East Coast Burger Company 75 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-857-0277
Emerson Hotel Restaurant
31 Emerson Plaza, Emerson, 201-262-7557
Esposito’s Park Café 790 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-313-2441
Esty Street
86 Spring Valley Rd., Park Ridge, 201-307-1515
Farmhouse Café & Eatery 15 E. Madison Ave., Cresskill, 201-266-8931
301 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-664-8424
Fire and Oak
100 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-307-1100
Giovanni’s Deli
22-08 Morlot Ave., Fair Lawn, 201-791-1911
Glenn Rock Inn
222 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, 201-445-2362
Gross’s La Strada
231 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-670-9233
Haven Riverfront Restaurant & Bar
2 Main St., Edgewater, 201-943-1900
Hearth and Tap
125 N. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-307-6300
Ho-Ho-Kus Inn and Tavern
1 East Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-445-4115
Houston’s
The Shop’s at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-488-5667
Hungry Peddler
44 E. Madison Ave., Cresskill, 201-894-0718
Iron Horse
20 Washington Ave., Westwood, 201-666-9682
Ivy Inn
268 Terrace Ave., Hasbrouck Heights, 201-393-7699
Jackson Hole
362 Grande Ave., Englewood, 201-871-7444
Just Janice (BYOB)
23 Sheridan Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-445-2666
The Kosher Nosh Deli
894 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-1186
Lakeside Grille & Bar
105 Lakeside Dr., Ramsey, 201-327-0009
Mahwah Bar & Grill
2 Island Rd., Mahwah, 201-529-8056
Mason Jar
219 Ramapo Valley Rd., Mahwah, 201-529-2302
Mitchell’s Seafood Market 541 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-840-9311
MK Valencia
201-373-0228
Mob Burger 525 Moonachie Ave, Wood-Ridge, 201-728-4891
Nostramana Café
51 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale, 551-264-9200
Nellie’s Place 9 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, 201-652-8626
Nikki’s Bar & Grill
213 Washington Ave., Little Ferry, 201-518-2883
Noah’s Ark (Kosher)
493 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201-692-1200
Oceanos
2-27 Saddle River Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-796-0546
Palmer’s Crossing 145 Dean Dr., (Clinton Ave.), Clinton
201-567-4800
Park Wood Delicatessen
342 Erie Ave., Midland Park, 201-689-0855
Pearl Restaurant (BYOB) 17 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-857-5100
Peppercorns
176 Colony Ave., Park Ridge, 201-391-2818
Pizzaiolo By Brothers 85 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-444-4944
P.J. Finnegan’s 274 Fairview Ave., Westwood, 201-664-7576
Plank Pizza Company 383 Market St. Bldg. D, Saddle Brooke, 201-843-2426
Railroad Café 170 Union Ave., East Rutherford, 201-939-0644
Raymond’s 101 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-5125
Reilly’s Rib Cage (BYOB)
201-771-7200
Regina’s Steakhouse and Grill 827 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-862-1996
Restaurant L 9 Franklin Turnpike, Allendale, 201-785-1112
Rolling Pin Café 341 Broadway, Westwood, 201-666-4660
Roots Steakhouse 17 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-444-1922
Rosario’s Trattoria (BYOB) 29 Central Ave., Midland Park, 201-445-3335
Rotunda
Garden State Plaza (Rtes. 17 & 4), Paramus, 201-843-7693
Ruby Tuesday Route 4 & 17, Paramus, 201-909-0886
Rutherford Pancake House 40 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-340-4171
Sal’s Good Eats 80 Green St., Teterboro, 201-288-1170
Section 201 704 River Rd., New Milford, 201-262-5600
Shelly’s Vegetarian Café and Caterers
482 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201-692-0001
Steel Wheel Tavern 51 N. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-882-1800
St. Eve’s Restaurant (BYOB) 611 N. Maple Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-857-4717
Stony Hill Inn
231 Polify Rd. (Rt. 80), Hackensack, 201-342-4085
Tommy Fox’s Public House
201-384-0900
Twisted Elm 435 River Dr., Elmwood Park, 201-791-3705
Veggie Heaven 473 Cedar Ln., Teaneck, 201-836-0887
Victoria’s 336 Queen Anne Rd., Teaneck, 201-801-0888
Village Green (BYOB) 36 Prospect St., Ridgewood, 201-445-2914
Waterside
7800 B. River Rd., North Bergen, 201-861-7767
White Maple Café (BYOB) 47 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-447-1953
103 Prime
103 Spring Valley Rd., Park Ridge, 201-391-2220
Asian/Asian Fusion
I Fish (BYOB)
201-569-1111
Wok Bar
200 Main St., Fort Lee, 858-999-5555
Chinese/Korean/ Korean BBQ
Dong Chun Hong
144 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-592-0450
Golden Dynasty
825 Franklin Lakes Rd., Franklin Lakes, 201-891-7866
295 Kinderkamack Rd., Hillsdale, 201-358-8685
Kimchi Mama
7-09 Fair Lawn Ave., Fair Lawn, 201-703-2905
Kimchi Smoke BBQ
301 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-497-6333
Mr. Wok & Sushi (BYOB)
1 Highwood Ave. 2nd Floor,
Myung Ga Won
201-500-1111
Petite Soo Chow 607 Gorge Road, Cliffside Park, 201-313-1666
P.F. Chang’s The Shops at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-646-1565
T.S. Ma Wyckoff 637 Wyckoff Ave., Wyckoff, 201-891-8870
Continental Cuisine
Al Di La
1 Hoboken Rd., East Rutherford, 201-939-1128
Fountainview Restaurant
Sheraton Crossroads, 1 International Blvd. (Rt. 17N.), Mahwah, 201-529-1313
Rudy’s
107 Anderson Ave., Hackensack, 201-489-4831
Continental/American W’s Grill
20 Elm St., Oakland, 201-651-0005
Continental/French
Café Panache (BYOB)
130 E. Main St. (Lake St.), Ramsey, 201-934-0030
Latour (BYOB)
6 East Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-5056
Le Jardin
1257 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-224-9898
Madeleine’s Petite Paris 416 Tappan Rd., Northvale, 201-767-0063
Saddle River Inn (BYOB)
2 Barnstable Ct., Saddle River, 201-825-4016
Continental/Italian
Andrea’s Ristorante Italiano (BYOB)
20 E. Prospect St., Waldwick, 201-670-0275, 201-670-7958
Davia 6-09 Fair Lawn Ave., Fair Lawn, 201-797-6767
Sage (BYOB) 17-15 Broadway, Fair Lawn, 201-797-0500
Savini
168 West Crescent Ave., Allendale, 201-760-3700
793 Palisades Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-886-8626
Cuban
Azúcar Cuban Cuisine 171 Schraalenburgh Rd., Closter, 201-660-7977
Casual Habana Cafe (BYOB) 125 Main St., Hackensack, 201-880-9844
Mambo Tea House (BYOB) 98 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-933-1262
Mis Raices 1214 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-530-7233
Rebecca’s Restaurant (BYOB) 236 Old River Rd., Edgewater, 201-943-8808
Rumba Cubana 1807 45th St., North Bergen, 201-553-9100
Dominican
Punta Cana 2151 Lemoine Ave., Fort Lee, 201-849-5556
Eclectic
Contemporary
Bibi’z Restaurant and Lounge 284 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-722-8600
Baumgart’s Café (BYOB) 59 The Promenade, Edgewater, 201-313-3889
45 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-569-6267
158 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-612-5688
Café Matisse (BYOB) 167 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-935-2995
G.W. Grill
2139 Hudson Terrace, Fort Lee, 201-947-2440
Port of Call (POC) (BYOB)
450 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, 201-488-0888
The Rail Yard Tavern 14-26 Plaza Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-773-3372
36 Engle St., Englewood, 201-541-8530
200 Tice
200 Tice Blvd., Woodcliff Lake, (Inside The Woodcliff Lake Hilton) 201-391-3600
201 Supper Club 90 W. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-541-0101
Fondue
The Melting Pot 250 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-664-8877
French
The Chef’s Table (BYOB)
754 Franklin Ave., Franklin Lakes, 201-891-6644
Latour (BYOB)
6 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-5056
Greek
A Taste of Greece (BYOB) 935 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-967-0029
Axia Taverna
201-569-5999
Daily Treat
177 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood 201-652-9113
Eons 17 NJ-17, Paramus, 212-696-1234
Greek Corner Grill (BYOB) 99 Park Ave., Park Ridge, 201-476-1400
GRK Grill (BYOB)
39 Union Ave., Cresskill, 201-399-7670
The Greek Village 254 Livingston St., Northvale,
201-750-8570
It’s Greek to Me
352 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-945-5447
36 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-568-0440
1611 Palisade Ave., Fort Lee, 201-947-2050
21 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-612-2600
487 Broadway, Westwood, 201-722-3511
2020 Central Road, Fort Lee, 201-947-2055
Taverna Mykonos 238 Broadway, Elmwood Park, 201-703-9200
Varka
30 N. Spruce St., Ramsey, 201-995-9333
Indian
Art of Spice (BYOB)
159 Main St., Hackensack, 201-342-3444
BHOJ (BYOB)
430 Market St., Elmwood Park,
201-797-6800
Kailash (BYOB)
22 Oak St., Ridgewood, 201-251-9693
Mantra
275 NJ-4, Paramus, 201-342-8868
Mausam (BYOB) 76 Market St., Clifton, 973-472-3663
Nirvana Indian Kitchen (BYOB) 29 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale, 201-818-2300
Spice Mantra (BYOB) 6 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-568-1122
Silli Point (BYOB) 498 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-941-0271
Taste of India (BYOB) 166 Cedar Ln., Teaneck, 201-692-3222
Irish
Biddy O’Malley’s Irish Bistro and Bar 36 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood,
201-608-5545
191 Paris Ave., Northvale, 201-564-7893
Poitin Still
774 Main St., Hackensack, 201-487-0660
Italian
Aldo & Gianni Ristorante
108 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-391-6866
Aldo’s (BYOB) 640 Wyckoff Ave., Wyckoff, 201-891-2618
A Mano
24 Franklin Ave. (at Chestnut St.), Ridgewood, 201-493-2000
Amarone
63 Cedar Ln., Teaneck, 201-833-1897
Andiamo
23 Hardenburgh Ave., Haworth, 201-384-1551
Angelo’s Restaurant
263 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst, 201-939-1922
Arturo’s
41 Central Ave., Midland Park,
201-444-2466
Baci Italian Grill
36 Jefferson Ave., Westwood, 201-722-1900
Barcelona’s 973-778-4930
Bazzarelli
117 Moonachie Rd., Moonachie, 201-641-4010
Bellissimo (BYOB) 12 S. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-746-6669
Bensi 459 Rt. 17S, Hasbrouck Heights, 201-727-9525
183 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, 201-297-7444
Bistro 107 107 Moonachie Rd., Moonachie, 201-440-3339
Bottagra Restaurant 80 Wagaraw Rd., Hawthorne, 973-423-4433
Buon Gusto (BYOB) 534 Durie Ave., Closter, 201-784-9036
Buongiorno’s (BYOB) 86 Washington Ave., Dumont, 201-501-8000
Café Amici (BYOB) 4 Sycamore Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-389-6377
Caffe Annello (BYOB) 429 Broadway Ave., Westwood, 201-786-8137
Caffe Capri (BYOB) 119 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201-460-1039
Café Italiano Ristorante 14 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-461-5041
Café L’Amore (BYOB) 455 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, 201-337-5558
Café Tivoli
201-941-5561
Cassie’s 18 S. Dean St., Englewood, 201-541-6760
Cenzino Ristorante 589 Ramapo Valley Rd., Oakland, 201-337-6693
Cliff’s Steakhouse 18 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-944-0233
Dimora
100 Piermont Rd., Norwood, 201-750-5000
Dino’s
12 Tappan Rd., Harrington Park, 201-767-4245
Due (BYOB)
16-18 S. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-857-3231
Fiona’s Restaurant (BYOB) 118 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-857-5800
Fontana Di Trevi (BYOB) 248 Fort Lee Road, Leonia, 201-242-9040
Fratelli’s Coal-Burning Pizza 206 Route 46, Elmwood Park, 201-797-7552
Gianna’s
843 Washington Ave., Carlstadt, 201-460-7997
Giovanna’s Café
19 E. Main St., Ramsey, 201-825-5835
GoodFellas Ristorante
973-478-4000
Granita Grille 467 Broadway, Westwood, 201-664-9846
Grissini Restaurant 484 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-568-3535
Guilio’s
154 Washington St., Tappan, NY, 845-359-3657
Il Giardino (BYOB)
153 Paris Ave., Northvale, 201-750-0060
Il Mulino Ristorante (BYOB) 132 Veterans Plaza, Dumont, 201-384-7767
Il Villaggio
651 NJ-17N (between Rtes. 3&46), Carlstadt, 201-953-7733
In Napoli
116 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-947-2500
Kinchley’s Tavern
586 N. Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, 201-934-7777
L’Angolo Trattoria Italiana (BYOB) 696 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-941-0853
La Cambusa
973-445-7222
La Lanterna (BYOB)
29 W. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-444-5520
La Vecchia Napoli
2 Hillard Ave., Edgewater, 201-941-6799
Locale Café
208 Piermont Rd., Closter, 201-750-3233
Luka’s (BYOB)
10 River Road, Bogota, 201-440-2996
Lu Nello
182 Stevens Ave., Cedar Grove, 973-837-1660
Maggiano’s Little Italy
The Shops at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-221-2030
Martini Grill
187 Hackensack St., Wood-Ridge, 201-939-2000
Nanni Ristorante
53 W. Passaic St. Rochelle Park, (behind Garden State Plaza), 201-843-1250
Nonna’s Cucina (BYOB)
918 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-2758
Olivella’s
7709 Bergenline Ave., North Bergen, 201-662-6110
Osso Buco
343 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-664-1600
Picco Tavern
160 Prospect Ave., Hackensack, 201-880-8750
Portobello
175 Ramapo Valley Rd. (Rt. 202), Oakland, 201-337-8990
Puzo’s Family Restaurant 973-423-2288
Rocca (BYOB)
203 Rock Rd., Glen Rock, 201-670-4945
Roxanne’s
150 Franklin Turnpike, Mahwah, 201-529-0007
Rugova Restaurant & Bar 259 Johnson Ave., River Edge, 201-880-8488
Sanducci’s Trattoria (BYOB) 620 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-599-0600
Sanzari’s New Bridge Inn 105 Old New Bridge Rd., New Milford, 201-692-7700
Sergio’s Missione (BYOB)
2 N. Mercer St., Lodi, 973-778-4545
Sicilian Sun (BYOB)
604 N. Maple Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-444-3494
Solari’s 61 S. River St., Hackensack, 201-487-1969
Sorrento (BYOB) 132 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201-507-0093
Trattoria Giotto (BYOB) 15 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-528-7142
Trovato’s Due 4 Barbara Ln., Oakland, 201-337-0813
Vicolo Ristorante 216 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, 201-497-8777
Woodstone Pizza Bar & Grill 352 W. Passaic St., Rochelle Park, 201-845-7600
Zozo’s Restaurant
625 River Vale Rd., River Vale, 201-391-3195
Japanese
Akai Lounge 11 N. Dean St., Englewood, 201-541-0086
Asahi (BYOB) 1475 Bergen Blvd., Fort Lee, 201-944-5113
Blu Sushi (BYOB) 26 Wilsey Square, Ridgewood, 201-882-1700
Cocoro
856 Franklin Ave., Franklin Lakes, 201-560-1333
Daruma (BYOB) 45 N. Dean St., Englewood, 201-567-9600
Fuki Sushi (BYOB) 828 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-225-0160
Gen Sushi & Hibachi
14B Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-930-9188
Hanami (BYOB) 41 Union Ave., Cresskill, 201-567-8508
301 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-666-8508
Hiro 254 Degraw Ave., Teaneck, 201-692-1002
Hiura
400 Main St. Ste. B, Fort Lee, 201-346-0110
Kazuki (BYOB)
638 Westwood Ave., River Vale, 201-263-1811
Kiku
5-9 Rt. 9W (Palisades Pkwy.), Alpine, 201767-6322
365 Rt. 17S, Paramus, 201-265-7200
Kumo (BYOB)
55 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-652-0088
Kyoto (BYOB)
78 Washington Ave., Dumont, 201-384-5544
Masa Sushi & Grill (BYOB) 81 W. Allendale Ave., Allendale, 201-934-6616
Matsu Sushi & Grill
140 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-722-9388
Matsuya
490 Market St., Saddle Brook, 201-843-5811
Mei Sushi
Japanese Restaurant
14-20 Plaza Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-398-9882
Minado 1 Valley Rd., Little Ferry, 201-931-1522
Mount Fuji
Japanese Steak House 193 NJ-17, Hasbrouck Heights, 201-288-2800
Nizi Sushi (BYOB)
300 Union Ave., Rutherford, 201-804-7666
Sarku Japan Bergen Town Center, Rt. 4W (Forest Ave.), Paramus, 201-880-6551
Sakura-Bana (BYOB) 43 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-447-6525
Sendai Japanese
Restaurant & Grill
178 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-225-0995
Sushi Cruise (BYOB) 725 River Road #51, Edgewater, 201-313-3611
Sushi Village (BYOB) 700-90 Broadway, Westwood, 201-666-8800
Sushi X (BYOB)
23 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-689-7878
Umeya
156 Piermont Rd., Cresskill, 201-816-0511
Tawara Japanese Restaurant (BYOB)
53 W. Main St., Ramsey, 201-825-8712
Wasabi
848 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-493-7575
Yuki
2 S. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-391-9877
Yuki Hana (BYOB)
131 Kinderkamack Rd., Park Ridge, 201-391-3230
Latin
Mambo Empanadas (BYOB)
313 Union Ave., Rutherford, 201-933-3888
Mediterranean
The Kebabci (BYOB)
259 Valley Blvd., Wood-Ridge, 201-728-4949
Mado (BYOB)
570 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-265-3629
Mediterraneo (BYOB) 23 N. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-447-0022
Mezza (BYOB) 20 Jefferson Ave., Westwood, 201-722-8822
Novo (BYOB)
37 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-444-4910
Mexican A Taco Affair
81 Main St., Little Falls, 973-812-8226
Azteca (BYOB) 47 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-438-2111
Jalepenos
930 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-5566
La Frontera (BYOB) 37 E. Broadway, Hackensack, 201-880-7731
Leon
16 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-857-0297
Mariachi Grill (BYOB)
262 Ridge Rd., Lyndhurst, 201-528-7493
Riviera Maya (BYOB) 252 E. Fort Lee Rd., Bogota, 201-996-1380
Viva Margarita
364 Lawton Ave., Cliffside Park, 551-313-0760
Spanish
El Cid
205 Paramus Rd., Paramus, 201-843-0123
Meson Madrid Restaurant
343 Bergen Blvd., Palisades Park, 201947-1038
Sangria
1033 MacArthur Blvd., Mahwah, 201-962-3310
Sayola
201-871-2182
Tapas De España
7909 Bergenline Ave., North Bergen, 201-453-1690
Taste of Spain
493 Tappan Rd., Northvale, 201-767-8904
Thai
Bangkok Garden
261 Main St., Hackensack, 201-487-2620
Clifton Thai
239 Parker Ave., Clifton, 973-253-1400
Chok Dee Thai Kitchen
561 Livingston St., Norwood, 201-750-8880
Gao Thai Kitchen (BYOB)
63 Main St., Ramsey, 201-962-2691
Malee Fine Thai Cuisine (BYOB)
2 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-612-7797
Massaman Thai Cuisine
312 Hackensack St., Carlstadt, 201-559-1424
Pimaan Thai Restaurant (BYOB)
79 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-967-0440
Ridge Thai (BYOB)
50 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-493-9929
Thai West (BYOB)
22 Jefferson Ave., Westwood, 201-497-6981
Wyckoff Thai Cuisine
314 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-485-8855
Persian
Kabab on the Cliff 23 Godwin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-444-5100
Pardis Persian Grill (BYOB)
47 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-652-8000
Rose (BYOB) 1150 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck, 201-569-3600
Turkish Cinar
214 Kinderkamack Rd., Emerson, 201-523-9284
Hakki Babba (BYOB)
555 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-840-8444
Hunkar (BYOB)
319 Hackensack St., Carlstadt, 201-507-0606
Istanblue Restaurant (BYOB)
645 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge, 201-262-4400
Istanbul Café & Grill (BYOB)
14-25 Plaza Rd., Fair Lawn, 201-791-2222
Kebab Istanbul 5819 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Bergen, 201-861-4400
Marmaris Cafe (BYOB) 820 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-943-9090
Samdan
178 Piermont Rd., Cresskill, 201-816-7343
Turkish Kitchen 297 Palisade Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-943-7733
Turkuaz (BYOB) 1550 Lemoine Ave., Fort Lee, 201-944-1115
Vietnamese
Bistro Du Saigon 168 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-592-0100
Ma Mí Eatery 546 Durie Ave., Closter, 201-660-7826
Mekong Grill (BYOB) 24 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-445-0011
Pho Miu Vietnamese Restaurant
255 Pascack Rd., Township of Washington, 201-497-3915
Saigon Kitchen (BYOB) 2024 Center Ave., Fort Lee, 201-592-8890
Simply Vietnamese (BYOB)
201-568-7770
TC’s Little Taste of Saigon (BYOB)
201-445-5509
By Brandon Goldstein
“Brandon, stop saying that to her. Carlye, put down the knife.”
Sometimes, when we see our family after a long absence, we revert back to the people we were when
“COVID Holidays” upon us, how we all connect this year might seem a little…different.
on a truly special sense of both thanks, fortune and with an issue that has turned the world upside down.
There are few living beings on this Earth who have experienced what we all now are. This sense of confusion, gloominess and uncertainty looms over us with each passing day, but there are silver linings. This holiday season, more than ever, it’s important we
As an old man trapped in a young man’s body, I often blame technology. We are too invested in what everyone else is doing, saying, feeling. We are more likely to verbally attack someone for simply disagreeing behind the protection of our screens. Why are we like this?
The “COVID Holidays” have arrived, as evidenced by the brief bouts of resentment and tension that can only be found in the most loving of homes. How many people can we have? Is he going to wear a mask? Will politics come up? Are we doing this all on Zoom?! Fuhgeddaboudit!
There’s no denying, this year is going to be different. Why, you ask? Well, because much like the rest of the year, which has seemingly been a repeat of March 15, we really don’t even know what to expect. In a year where even the intimacy of hugging your grandmother seems like a foreign feeling, how are we to cope with the holidays that are meant to bring us all together?
The holidays are supposed to be a time when we are reminded why the world is great, why we are thankful for living on it and why ugly sweater manufacturers are still in business. This year though, it is taking
I used to laugh at the people who would go on “tech retreats.” They’d literally go away, and not turn on a phone or check an email or read a text. I didn’t think I was that consumed by technology. Now I certainly am. I typed this on a typewriter to prove my point, but ironically made it into a TikTok video. You know, for the fans!
So, maybe that’s what we all need this holiday season. We need to put the phones down – a tech retreat where we can just be with loved ones, even at properly social distanced…distance. Be with the people you choose to be with, because if this year isn’t a good enough reminder, the good times don’t always last, but the great memories can.
Turn off the phone for just a few hours. Relive old stories – of times when there was no digital divide. Learn what they are frustrated about, and maybe you more complete moment that can hopefully cap a tumultuous year.
Life is great, and if you’re reading this, we all have something to be thankful for. After a year like 2020, let’s not forget it.
