Bergen County The Magazine is published six times a year. Mail all editorial and advertising materials to 297-101 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 135, Oradell, NJ 07649 or email materials to steven@bcthemag.com.
For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5196.
For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com.
Copyright 2026. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.
Bergen New Bridge Health
A Letter from the Editor
There’s something about early spring in Bergen County that feels like a quiet reset. The days stretch a little longer and, suddenly, we find ourselves stepping back outside – onto ballfields, into backyards and maybe even into a slightly different version of ourselves.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about something one of my favorite fitness instructors says often: “Be your favorite version of you; not your best.” It’s a simple phrase, but it has stayed with me in ways I didn’t expect.
We’re so often encouraged to chase “our best.” But what does “best” even mean? It’s slippery, subjective and – more often than not – borrowed from someone else’s definition. My best might look completely different from yours, or my neighbor’s, or even my own on a different day.
But favorite? That’s something we understand instinctively. You know your favorite ice cream flavor without hesitation. You don’t overanalyze it or compare it to someone else’s choice – you just know. It brings you joy, and it feels like you.
As a mom of two energetic boys, I see this play out all the time, particularly since baseball season just started. At their baseball games, I don’t want them to be the “best” player on the field. I want them to be the version of themselves that hustles, laughs, encourages their teammates and walks off the field proud of how they showed up. That’s my favorite version of them, and I hope it is theirs too.
Similarly, at home, whether I’m trying a new recipe or just getting dinner on the table between practices, I’ve started to let go of the idea of doing it perfectly. Some nights, my favorite version of myself is the one who experiments and makes a mess. Other nights, it’s the one who orders in and sits on the couch with a good book after the kids are asleep.
And as a wife to a volunteer firefighter and accountant during tax season, I’ve learned that life doesn’t always allow for “best.” There are long nights, unexpected calls and moments where flexibility matters more than perfection. In those moments, being my favorite version of myself – steady, supportive, present – is more meaningful than chasing an impossible standard.
This season, as everything begins to bloom again, I invite you to consider the same question I’ve been asking myself: What does your favorite version of you look like? Maybe it’s the version that gets outside more. The one who calls a friend just because. The one who cheers a little louder from the sidelines.
Wherever this spring finds you, I hope you give yourself permission to choose favorite over best.
Here’s to your favorite you, Jessica HumpHrey-cintineo
BERGEN NEW BRIDGE MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
BNBMC held their annual Donor Appreciation Event at Fogo de Chao. For more information, visit www.newbridgehealth.org.
Sandy Weiss, Darian Eletto
Katie Richardson, George Young
Howard Post, Donnalee Corrieri
Tom Monaco, Rob Brown
Ricky and Ximena Marmirkovic, Claudia Marietta, Yousef Fattah
Pat Avallone, Jim Tedesco, John Cappazzo
Lou Baptiste, Julia Orlando
Marion Troise, Jim Tedesco, Debbie Visconi, Rob Brown
Julia Orlando, Debbie Visconi, Lori Pietropaolo
Bob Gordon, Debbie Visconi
Jim Teehan, Frank Scott, Rachel Morgan, Norm Gin, Tom Schroeder
Dr. Karine Airepetian, Debbie Visconi, Dr. Anna Harutyunyan
Jim Tedesco, Debbie Visconi, Connie Tedesco, Rob Brown
HOPE FOR CHILDREN RESEARCH FOUNDATION
The Hope for Children Research Foundation held their annual Gala and Casino Night at Seasons. For more information, visit www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org.
Chris and Karin Frassetto
Gina and Bill Pulzello
Dennis and Susan Gralla
Richard Zwickel, Sharon Glass
Joe Klecko, John Drum, Marty Lyons
Andrew Weiss, Matt and Janet Weiss
Marie and Carmine Marabello
The Klecko Family Sal Frassetto, Dean and Gina Logan
Kevin and Amy Downes, Amy Sauter, Jay Atkins
Julie and Bob Tafuri
Meg Minassian, Aaron Back
Susan Ungaro’s Family and Friends
Meg Minassian, Michele Lingle, Michelle Oates
Easton Garfinkel, Holly Schepisi
Jennifer Kozielski, Kendis Lembo
Hickory Rising
The Jersey-Born Band Blending Soul, Sound, and Serendipity into Americana Gold
By StaCie roSe
They say never meet your favorite rock stars, although it’s probably a safe bet to hitch your wagon to Hickory, Jersey’s own indie folk, rock and americana revelation. These guys are as cool as their music, and in it for all the right reasons. I spoke with Rob Friedland, vocalist and guitarist, and Dave Foschino, who also plays guitar, banjo and mandolin, about their newest journey with their bandmates. We discussed how purpose and passion propel them to do what comes naturally.
Sonic Serendipity
In and out of bands for most of their adult lives, (with one of the members dabbling as early as 6) this group of guys who are also friends and family (two brothers and a cousin – not unlike Kings of Leon) found each other through a mutual love of performing around the state and across the country through years on the music scene in various bands in a myriad of bands, iterations and incarnations. In other words, they’ve been around the block and somehow ended up on the same trajectory with the same goals of writing and playing music outside the confines of
cover bandom, while bringing to the table a unique treasure trove of musical chops. They set out to play good music for good people while enjoying the process, essentially the most soulful blueprint for doing anything at all. And with all the years of experience between them, they’ve only just begun.
Suddenly Prolific
How could they have known that their skills, musicality and collective sonic sensibilities would meld? It was a serendipitous surprise, yielding song after song – and the hits keep coming. Apparently, there is a sizeable pile of not yet released tunes on the band’s hard drive somewhere in the Hickory vault in someone’s home studio in New Jersey, but you didn’t hear it from me. They’re on that much of a roll! With a pair of albums released to great praise by old friends, family and newly minted fans, they’ve got another one in the pipeline and plenty of music to keep the band busy for quite some time as each member brings something different stylistically to the table.
Process
Like many modern music makers, they bridge the gap between sentient and digital worlds when creating songs. It’s a little bit of recording ideas as voice memos on phones and fusing low and high-end technology while recording. Everyone in the band contributes. It’s guitars and mandolins, keys, banjo, drums and bass, a beautiful mix of vocals and any other instrumentation that fits the bill and brings their songs to life. One member picks up where the other leaves off, and the communal approach yields a highly enticing blend of sounds, lyrical magic, and well-crafted tunes that are quickly becoming synonymous with Hickory.
Playing Around
Akin to many beloved bands like the Eagles, Crosby, Stills & Nash, the Allman Brothers Band and The Who, which featured multiple singers, these players do it all. As multi-instrumentalists and singers, they write and record their own music. Booking shows around the state and beyond, they’re a busy band playing festivals, venues, coffee houses, bars and breweries stateside.
The Sound of Success
History’s debut album, Postcard Picture Show, is aptly titled, as it plays like a visual smattering of postcards from different places, infusing diverse genres as it cultivates and navigates this original band’s country-tinged spirit. Most recently, the band released Kickin’ It Down the Road, which also offers a sense of what the songs might sound like. But it’s hard to really know how easy these songs go down.
The Real Influencers
Before social media, people were influenced by those who stood for something real and created something authentic, outside our cultural comfort zone. These guys have been influenced by the real deals and some of the best in the business, like The Beatles, Tom Petty, Mumford & Sons, Caamp, Led Zeppelin and The Lumineers, and those sounds shine through in their songs.
When asked about their dream collaborations, there was no disagreement. Two of the members quickly referenced the mighty blues powerhouse Chris Stapleton and the soul-soaked troubadour Tyler Childers.
Serving the Song
Talking to these guys, you get no hint of ego or one
bandmate who thinks he’s in charge or better than the others. If you’ve ever seen the Cameron Crowe cult masterpiece Almost Famous, where egos clash to the point of a band that ultimately implodes, this is not that. A nicer group of guys with humility and common respect you couldn’t find. But this doesn’t diminish their edge one bit, and the music really speaks for itself, which is what Hickory is all about. When they collaborate and arrange their music, they do so with no limits. It’s about serving the song, and they all work together to do so. The band is as free as a bird to explore sounds and musical landscapes because the only ones dictating Hickory’s musical direction are Hickory.
The Big Picture
Right now, the band is about momentum and building on the success of their first two albums. One thing they hang their heart on is being a part of a new and exciting crop of artists bubbling up on the Jersey music scene. The state has historically birthed some of the best, and New Jersey has always been home to some of the most soulful songwriters and musicians. But for a while, much of the notable music coursing through America’s veins was com-
ing from other places. Now there seems to be a renaissance. Hickory is glad to play a part in this emerging scene that showcases original music from the Garden State.
Motivated by the Music
What could be a better motivator than doing what you love? The members of Hickory who consist of Rob Friedland, Dave Foschino, Matt Nalducci, Dan Rainey, Ted Rainey and Jason Warren tell me that they all have an equal stake in the band, and use their downtime to craft and hone, whittle and arrange the songs. They are all busy guys with families, jobs and responsibilities. Still, they carve out the time to create music that’s palatable, relatable and as vibey as it is rockin’. Since music is second nature to all the members, one or more of them keep the creative process rolling at any time of the day or night. There are a lot of ways to craft music these days, and Hickory taps into all their collective resources to bring you the most down-home Jersey rock served right.
Visit HickoryBand.com for shows and updates and follow them on Instagram.
THE VALLEY HOSPITAL AUXILIARY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
The Valley Hospital Auxiliary Saddle River Branch held their annual Holiday Luncheon and Boutique at Seasons. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.
Gagan Gupta, Pooja Kumar, Rhea Gupta
Karen Baizan, Dominika Kim
Jeanine Dawkins, Karen Sheehy, Lyn Clark
Melinda Silvia, Karen Cartagena, Maria Perez, Sarah Nassery
Sandy Carapezza, Elaine Heimberger, Nancy Weiss
Fabiana and Phil Santos Pooja Kumar,
Bharti Ghai, Akiti Kohli
Mirlana Morris, Pooja Kumar, Rina Emerson
Dr. Jean Holden, Dr. Mariliza Lacap, Nancy Cacciola
Claudine Siero, Siznea Springer, Courtney Maconti
Tracy Ingrasselino, Ann
Marie Nucifora, Margaret Kougelis, Tracy Kloock, Dorothy Cosimano
Jennifer Fishman, Dana Sblenzorio, Brandy Dente, Cara Lake
Fabiana Santos, Rachel Hughes
Rosa Jasinski, Maria Harper, Shannon Carretta
Sandy Carapezza
Rose Marie Ranuro, Mary Ann McBride
Rebuilding Hope at Home
How North Jersey Volunteers Are Repairing Houses – and Changing Lives
By StaCey FeintuCh
Few things lead us to thoughts of comfort and security more than the word “home.” Much of our lives and hopes are reflected in our ideas of home. Having a home is a big part of achieving the American Dream. And we all want one that is safe and healthy to live and raise our families in.
But life happens and things can change. Across our local communities, many neighbors who’ve lived in and loved their homes for decades are struggling. Whether it be due to economics, health and aging, the loss of a spouse, an act of nature or other circumstances, low-income homeowners often have trouble maintaining their homes. When families can’t afford to address repair needs, small problems grow into big ones and the home can become unsafe and unhealthy.
That’s where Rebuilding Together North Jersey (RTNJ), which is based in Oakland, can help. A nonprofit organization founded in 1998, they make critical home repairs to low-income homeowners who are seniors, veterans, people with disabilities and families with children in Bergen and Passaic counties.
Every year since they started, they’ve done more and more projects. They started doing three projects in 1998. In 2026, they plan to work on more than 40 project sites. In total, they’ve improved more than 600 homes and nonprofit community facilities.
“We’re small but mighty,” says Gretchen Viggiano, executive director of Rebuilding Together North Jersey. The nonprofit works out of an office donated by a church. “Our overhead is low so we
can spend as much money as we can helping neighborhoods.”
All repairs are provided at no charge to the homeowners.
“We can repair problems that are causing them stress and anxiety,” says Viggiano. “With our efforts, we can rebuild lives.”
Unfortunately, they can’t guarantee that everyone who applies will be accepted into the program. They have limited resources and prioritize projects on several factors, including need, funding and volunteers’ skills and abilities. Homeowners are chosen based on income, age, disability and on the needed repairs. Don’t be mistaken. They don’t rehabilitate or rebuild entire homes, and they don’t provide luxury kitchen or bathroom installations, like they do on TV. They
focus on repairs that make homes safe, warm, dry and healthy. Much of what they do is “behind the scenes,” like electrical, plumbing and roofing repairs. Homes will be safer and more comfortable to live in, and will probably look nicer, but it won’t be a complete makeover.
They’ll do what they call “one-hit wonders,” where they repair one or a few quick problems that are making a home unsafe. That could be replacing a water heater, repairing a leaky sink or cleaning a clogged gutter.
“We try to solve one critical problem or knock off three or four little items that are making the house not work,” says Viggiano. “We make homeowners feel comfortable, have less anxiety and give them a new lease on life.”
They’ve spent a few years repairing over 20 homes in a Ringwood neighborhood.
“We started out unknown and untrusted,” says Viggiano. “We stayed and proved trustworthy. More and more people applied for our services.”
In 2026, they’re working on homes in Paterson. They were awarded their biggest grant of $862,500 for this project.
“Our services will really make a difference.”
Rebuilding Together gets financial support from government grants, businesses and local foundations. Work is done by hundreds of volunteers. Volunteers are contractors who donate their services for free or at a reduced cost. Or they may be part of volunteer groups from banks, corporations, religious institutions or rotary groups. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old. A minor must come with an adult.
Many times, you donate money or services but don’t
know where anything is going. But here, you can see the fruits of your labor.
“We give volunteers a repair list. When they’re done, they can check the boxes off and feel good about what they’ve accomplished.”
Upcoming Events
Most recently, they hosted a meat raffle at American Legion Hall in Oakland. Attendees were able to bid on foods – like steaks, spareribs, roast beef, chicken, sausages or salmon – donated by local vendors.
“It was fun, fast paced and quirky,” says Viggiano. “Everyone walked out happy.”
They will also run a 50/50 in the spring and a trivia night in October.
Rebuilding Together North Jersey is located at 341 Ramapo Valley Road in Oakland. Call them at 201-447-8886 or visit rtnorthjersey.org.
Feel Lighter, Live Brighter
The Studio Redefining Self-Care
By StaCey FeintuCh
Spring is all about renewal. The season marks a transition from winter’s hibernation to a time of transformation. We declutter, start anew and nurture ourselves. We deserve to reward ourselves for surviving those brutally frigid days and historic snowstorms.
That’s where The Reset Room in Ramsey can help. Open since February, the 935-square-foot space is dedicated to women, providing healing, renewal and holistic well-being services.
The Reset Room specializes in Manual Lymphatic Drainage therapy – a gentle, yet powerful, treatment that supports the body’s natural ability to cleanse, sculpt and restore balance. Their mission is to help clients feel lighter, clearer and deeply revitalized. They believe true wellness begins with self-love, and they’re committed to nurturing that journey in every person who walks through our doors.
The treatments are rooted in Brazilian-inspired techniques and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). Each session is more than a massage – it’s a mindful experience designed to awaken circulation, enhance natural beauty and restore balance to body and mind.
“It’s a special place where you can let go of what no longer serves you,” says Founder Janaina Campbell.
“Here you can be present and allow your mind, body and spirit to reset.”
What They Offer
They intentionally only offer four services.
“Less is more,” Campbell says.
The Reset Flow therapy (75 minutes) detoxes the body, renews energy and restores natural flow. It’s a blend of lymphatic drainage and body contour techniques.
The Prenatal Reset Flow (75 minutes) offers expecting mothers many health benefits, including reduced swelling, improved circulation, relaxation and immune support. It can also help with fatigue and potentially prepare the body for labor.
Original Vodder MLD therapy (60 minutes) is a gentle, rhythmic technique that stimulates lymph flow, reduces swelling and supports the body’s natural detoxification and healing processes.
And The Reset Flow + Facial Therapy (90 minutes) blends lymphatic drainage with a facial massage to detoxify, lift and awaken your natural glow promoting total renewal from face to body.
“I love helping people,” says Campbell. “It fills my heart when they leave a treatment and they’re glowing. They don’t even know what happened, but they love it and they’re grateful to feel like the best version of themselves.”
During each session, she uses organic essential oils, facial tools that support lymphatic function and other elements to enhance the treatment. She is also creating her own line of lymphatic drainage oils sourced from the Amazon Rainforest in South America. The oils are produced by a childhood friend using all-natural ingredients, such as copaiba, andiroba and buriti, bringing the power of these traditional botanicals to treatments.
Continued on page 28
A nurse from Valley Hospital also visits the studio at times to give IV vitamin drips.
How It Began
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) has been popular for many years in Brazil, most of South America and Europe. “You can find it on almost every corner,” says Campbell, who is originally from Brazil and now lives in Mahwah. She always dreamed of bringing this practice to Bergen County.
She is a yoga teacher who is certified in sound bath healing and other holistic practices. She is also certified to work in both Mahwah and Ramsey school districts and spends time working and volunteering at her two daughters’ schools.
However, in the late summer of 2024, she felt a loud calling in her heart that it was time to do something big – something meaningful that could help a lot of people.
After that, everything began to unfold naturally. She found a space, created the business name and mission, and set the wheels in motion. The process took a whole year, during which Campbell’s strength and perseverance were truly tested.
“It came with a lot of obstacles, but I learned how strong, faithful and patient I was. It tested me on every level,” says Campbell. “Now, the studio is so beautiful when you walk in. It’s full of peacefulness, kindness and compassion. I believed in this dream and had a vision, and now the result is this stunning space filled with so much love. I’m so proud that I stuck with it.”
Future plans include hosting monthly women’s wellness workshops on topics such as menopause, mental health, breathwork and other forms of holistic healing. Campbell also hopes to expand to additional locations while continuing to grow the studio’s offerings with services that support the lymphatic system, including IV therapy with a full-time nurse, cold plunge and red-light therapy.
“This is something everyone should include in their wellness routine,” she says. “My hope is that more people discover its benefits and begin to care for their bodies in this way.”
The Reset Room is located 100 East Main St. in Ramsey. Visit them at theresetroomnj.com or call 201-995-4132.
Faster Care When It Matters Most Bergen New Bridge Medical Center Unveils Major Emergency Department Expansion
By Sharon goldStein
When a parent rushes a child to the Emergency Department, nothing matters more than one question: How fast will someone see us?
At Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, the answer is approximately 7 minutes.
At a ribbon cutting attended by more than 200 community leaders, elected officials, clinicians and supporters, the Medical Center unveiled a newly expanded Emergency Department that has more than doubled in size, growing from 19 beds to 47. More than a construction milestone, this expansion represents a countywide investment in faster access, higher quality and more dignified emergency care for families in Bergen County and anywhere in New Jersey.
This project reflects what is possible when public leadership, institutional partners, philanthropy and frontline healthcare teams align around a shared purpose: delivering modern, responsive emergency care for every resident who walks through the doors.
Designed Around Real Life
Emergency rooms can feel chaotic and overcrowded. Bergen New Bridge built something intentionally different.
• Door-to-Doc in approximately 7 minutes, meaning patients are evaluated by a clinician quickly upon arrival.
• 47 private treatment rooms, eliminating curtains and hallway stretchers in favor of privacy and infection control.
• A dedicated EmPATH, Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing, unit, offering a calming, living room style setting for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.
• Specialized pediatric suites, thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming and family centered environment for Bergen County’s youngest patients.
• Dedicated geriatric spaces, recognizing seniors have distinct emergency care needs.
• Recognized as a Certified Autism Center, with sensory sensitive design and specially trained clinicians to support neurodivergent patients.
The Emergency Department was purpose built around patient flow, safety, behavioral health readiness, and advanced clinical capability. Expanded capacity and integrated care spaces allow teams to coordinate seamlessly and respond effectively during surges and high acuity events. Continued on page 32
“This is what modern emergency medicine should look like,” said Deborah Visconi, president and CEO of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. “Separate spaces for mental health and medical emergencies, thoughtful design for children, seniors and neurodivergent patients, private rooms that respect dignity and a team that can get you from door-todoctor in minutes.”
For families facing medical emergencies, behavioral health crises, or complex senior care needs, those distinctions matter.
Partnerships That Made It Possible
From planning through completion, leaders at every level helped move this strategic investment forward.
Federal funding secured with the assistance of Congressman Josh Gottheimer ensured critical resources were available. The Bergen County Improvement Authority, BCIA, under the leadership of Mauro Raguseo, provided essential development, financing expertise, and oversight to bring the vision to life.
Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III and the Bergen County Commissioners championed the
expansion from concept to completion, prioritizing access to emergency care and strengthening the county’s healthcare infrastructure.
“Bergen New Bridge is a lifeline for our residents,” said County Executive Tedesco. “This expansion reflects our County’s unwavering commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare right here in Bergen County.”
Philanthropy played a meaningful role in enhancing the patient experience. A transformative $350,000 personal gift from Foundation Board Chair Rob Brown fully funded the pediatric suites, a deeply personal investment that reflects his commitment to Bergen County’s youngest patients. The suites are named in honor of his children, creating both a welcoming, family centered environment and a lasting legacy for the families who will rely on this care for years to come. The Bergen New Bridge Foundation also provided significant support to advance the overall Emergency Department expansion.
President and CEO Deborah Visconi expressed heartfelt gratitude.
“We are profoundly grateful to Rob Brown for his extraordinary personal generosity and to the Bergen New Bridge Foundation for its steadfast support of
our mission. We are equally grateful to the Bergen County Improvement Authority, County Executive Tedesco, our County Commissioners, Congressman Josh Gottheimer and the many other local and state leaders who stood with us in support of this expansion. Their leadership, vision and partnership directly strengthen access to care for the families we serve.”
Among the dignitaries present was Lt. Governor Dale Caldwell of New Jersey.
“This expansion reflects our shared commitment to improving access to care and strengthening health outcomes for families across New Jersey,” said Lt. Governor Caldwell. “Investments like this ensure that communities have the modern, compassionate emergency care they deserve.”
Built by the People Who Serve
This milestone ultimately reflects the dedication of the physicians, nurses, behavioral health specialists, technicians, operations staff, and leaders who helped design the space and will use it every day to serve the
community.
“This was not simply about adding beds,” Visconi said. “It was about expanding access to critical care, improving outcomes, and ensuring that when someone in our community faces an emergency, they receive care that is fast, thoughtful, and built around them.”
Across the nation, emergency departments are under strain as behavioral health crises rise and patient complexity increases. This expansion directly addresses those realities with approximately seven minutes from door to doctor, 47 private rooms, dedicated mental health treatment space and specialized environments for children, seniors, and neurodivergent patients.
When something unexpected happens, Bergen New Bridge is ready.
For families in Bergen County and anywhere in New Jersey, that is a very big deal.
CENTER FOR HOPE AND SAFETY
The Center for Hope and Safety held their Gala, celebrating 50 years, at Seasons. For more information, visit www.hopeandsafetynj.org.
Donnalee Corrieri, Darian Eletto
Michele Calise, Diane Scriveri
Frank and. Valerie Huttle, Anita Allen
Patty and Richard Chamberlain
Jim Dorey, Richard Chamberlain, Jr., Ivan Quiles
Blanca Carpio, Ellen McGuire
Marie Inserra, Frank Siclari
Odeta Mio, Dianne Lioyd
Carol Cuttita, Stan Kowalski
Lawrence Inserra, III, Jason, Larry
Grecia Rodriguez, Johanny Diaz
Laura Fenn, Dr. Collette Knight, Nancy Kennedy, Kimberlu Caesar, Dr. Nora Tossounian
Although snow and ice are still fresh in our minds, spring is quietly making its way in. Flowers push through frost. Trees begin to bud. The shift happens long before everything feels warm and certain.
Confidence works the same way.
Every year around this time, I hear these familiar phrases, “when I lose ten pounds;” “when I feel more comfortable;” “when summer comes;” “when I have more money.” Women tend to postpone weddings, luncheons, galas and even casual gatherings because we’re waiting for a future version of ourselves to appear.
But there is rarely a moment when we feel completely ready.
We’ve all stood in front of the mirror questioning whether an outfit highlights our best features. In that moment, it isn’t just about fabric or fit, it’s about feeling prepared. The right outfit doesn’t change who we are, it reinforces it. It gives us the confidence to walk out the door ready to own whatever comes next. Winter offered time for rest and reflection. Spring invites renewal. It’s the ideal season to align how you present yourself with who you are becoming. Instead of waiting for perfect conditions, lean into structure, polish and presence.
As invitations begin to arrive – charity events, bridal and baby showers, garden parties and community gatherings – many women focus on what they wish they could change rather than how they want to show up.
Showing up begins long before the event. It begins in your closet.
When you open your wardrobe, ask yourself one question: How do I want to feel in this room? Confident? Polished? Approachable? Powerful? Your clothing should answer that before you ever speak.
For early spring luncheons and daytime gatherings, think structure with softness. For instance, a tailored blazer layered over a silk or crepe blouse creates presence without heaviness. Midi-length dresses in refined prints or modern pastels feel fresh yet sophis-
ticated. Lightweight wool and blended fabrics hold their shape while allowing movement, essential for transitional weather. Add a structured handbag and a polished heel or elegant flat, and you’re not just attending the event, you’re entering it with intention.
For evening galas or fundraisers, spring is an opportunity to lighten your palette without losing authority. Instead of defaulting to black, consider navy, soft ivory, muted jewel tones or refined blush paired with metallic accessories. Clean lines and strong tailoring photograph beautifully and instantly elevate your presence. And yes, outerwear matters. A modern trench or tailored coat should complement your look, not compete with it. First impressions happen at the door.
Transformation isn’t about replacing everything in your closet. It’s about editing with purpose. Remove pieces that feel dated, ill-fitting or tied to an old version of you. Replace them with fewer, better pieces that support the woman you are becoming. Spring is the perfect time to reassess hemlines, refresh tailoring and invest in one anchor item, perhaps a beautifully cut blazer or a versatile dress, that can carry you through multiple occasions.
Most importantly, dress the body you have today. Posture changes when clothing fits properly. Confidence rises when fabric moves comfortably. Energy shifts when color complements your skin tone. These are not superficial details, they are psychological ones. When you feel supported by what you’re wearing, you move differently. You speak differently. You connect differently.
Spring will continue unfolding whether we feel perfectly ready or not. Invitations will arrive. Rooms will fill. Photos will be taken.
The only question is how you will arrive. As you stand in front of your closet wondering what to wear, remember this: confidence is not a summer body, it’s a spring decision.
Soneca Guadara is a style expert, transformation coach and keynote speaker who empowers women to show up with confidence, polish and purpose. For more style and confidence tips, follow Soneca on Instagram @StyledBySoneca.
Small Patients Big Care
Pediatric Specialty Care
You want the very best for your child. So do we. That’s why Valley’s pediatric specialists deliver experienced care, tailored to the needs of young patients. Our team takes the time to understand their patients’ concerns, answer questions, and reassure parents in a child-friendly environment.
Our team of pediatric experts specializes in:
Developmental Pediatrics
Endocrinology*
Food Allergy*
Gastroenterology & Nutrition*
Pediatric Gynecology*
Pediatric Surgery*
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Pulmonology*
Sleep Medicine*
Weight Management
* In alliance with Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital
Not Your Average Slice
Di Forno Brings Authentic Italian Flavor to Montvale
By StaCey FeintuCh
Make no mistake – Di Forno Pizzeria in Montvale is anything but your average neighborhood pizza spot. From the very first bite, it’s clear this place is doing things differently.
What sets them apart starts with the foundation: the dough. Instead of standard flour, Di Forno uses imported Italian flour to craft its signature crust. Pair that with homemade sauce made from authentic Italian tomatoes, and you’ve got a recipe for something truly special.
Their pizza lineup delivers both tradition and creativity. Fan favorites include the classic margherita –featuring San Marzano hand-crushed tomatoes, fresh homemade mozzarella, basil and extra virgin olive oil – and the indulgent Di Forno Four, a rich blend
of mozzarella, ricotta, fontina and parmigiano finished with a drizzle of hot honey.
The pasta offerings are just as impressive. Standouts include the pappardelle bolognese, made with slow-dried pasta and a deeply flavorful, slow-simmered grass-fed beef ragu. The paccheri calabrese brings bold flavor with sweet Italian sausage in a homemade spicy vodka sauce, while the paccheri di Sicilia elevates comfort food with a gorgonzola cream sauce, toasted Sicilian pistachio crumble, black pepper and fresh basil.
For General Manager Connie Panicucci, one dish rises above the rest: orecchiette pugliese – a perfectly balanced combination of homemade pasta, broccoli rabe, sweet Italian sausage, garlic, olive oil and chili flakes.
Continued on page 50
The menu also features beloved Italian classics like chicken parmesan, eggplant parmesan and fried calamari. Panicucci encourages guests not to miss the house-made meatballs and rice balls, both crafted fresh in-house.
“Our food may take longer to make but it’s all freshly made.”
And for diners with dietary needs, Di Forno offers gluten-free pizza crust and pasta options – so no one has to miss out.
About the Restaurant
Open since November, the 2,000-square-foot space – formerly home to Phil’s Pizzeria & Restaurant – has been transformed into a warm, inviting destination. The restaurant accommodates 65 diners indoors, with additional seating in the back dining room, plus sidewalk tables for about 24 guests.
Panicucci describes the vibe as having a “Bronx, Arthur Avenue-type feel,” complete with a mural that pays homage to the iconic Italian-American neighborhood.
Owner Ed Teitel brings a lifetime of experience in the restaurant world. His family owns Teitel Brothers in the Bronx, a well-known wholesale and retail grocery business. When the opportunity arose to open his own restaurant, he didn’t hesitate.
Di Forno is more than just a place to eat – it’s becoming a hub for community and events. Their make-your-own pizza parties, led by a private instructor, are a hit with school groups and kids’ celebrations, complete with cake, decorations, invitations and a certificate for every child.
They’ve also hosted creative events like a paintand-sip brunch and are planning more gatherings, including ladies’ nights.
Named for the Italian phrase meaning “of the oven,” Di Forno is BYOB and open seven days a week. Reservations are welcome but not required, and delivery is available through both in-house service and platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash and Grubhub.
Weekly specials add even more appeal. Their dine-in early-bird menu (Monday through Friday, 4–6 p.m.) offers a full meal – from soup and salad to entrée, dessert and drinks. Takeout family specials run Mondays and Tuesdays, while Wednesdays feature a crowd-pleasing deal of a large pie and 10 wings.
“We want to be people’s go-to mom-and-pop restaurant,” says Panicucci. “We’re in an area saturated with franchises. Here, you can get a home-cooked meal and vibe.”
Di Forno Pizzeria is located at 4 Chestnut Ridge Road in Montvale. Call 201-299-0660 or visit difornopizzeria.com for more information.
Schedule Online Now
Valley Health System has made it convenient for women of Montvale and surrounding towns to get their next mammogram*
With a new location at 400 Market Street in Montvale (at The Shoppes at DePiero Farm), women no longer need to travel out of the area for Valley’s high-quality breast imaging services.
Appointments are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Reasons to Choose Our New Montvale Location
n Beautiful new facility
n Easy-to-find location
n Plenty of parking
n Prompt results
n Valley is a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence
n Courteous, compassionate staff
*Mammograms require a doctor’s prescription. If you need a doctor, please call 1-800-VALLEY 1 (1-800-825-5391).
