BC the Mag: Holiday 2015

Hackensack University Medical Group

Providing care right here in your community.

The h ackensack University m edical Group team brings together the country’s best primary and specialty doctors. we offer the latest innovations in diagnostic testing, therapeutic procedures and clinical research. we embody the concept of “patient-centered care” by developing personalized treatment plans to meet your needs. Our medical team treats the right patient, in the right place, at the right time. w ith offices conveniently located right in your community, our team is committed to delivering outstanding care to you and your loved ones. we look forward to caring for you and your family for years to come.

November/December 2015

Publishers

Sharon and Steven Goldstein

Associate Publisher

Brandon Goldstein

Editor

Nayda Rondon

Design Studio

EIGHTY6

Evan Eagleson

Stephanie Kowalsky

Account Executives

Linda Barba

Amy Schwartz

Photographers

Steven Goldstein

Bill Streicher

Contributing Writers

Linda Barba

Tara DeLorenzo

Thomas Gagliano

Brandon Goldstein

Dr. Michael Gross

Robert Haynes-Peterson

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo

Suzette Lipscomb

Megan Montemarano

Richard Posluszny

Dennis Seuling

Judith Turner

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, call 201-694-5197 or 201-694-5196. For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com.

Copyright 2015. 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 a great chance you weren’t counting, but we are happy to say that with this issue, we have wrapped up 15 years of publishing BC THE MAG !

It’s been nothing short of a wonderful journey. As a couple from Queens, we moved to Bergen County some 26 years ago—and have watched it continuously evolve into the wonderful community we are so proud to live, work and raise our children in. Having the opportunity to start this magazine, and watch it be so widely accepted and beloved by a loyal group of both readers and local businesses, has been nothing short of a blessing.

As the holiday mindset quickly takes over the almost million residents of Bergen County, we always do our best to remind our readers that although this is such an amazing place to call home, there are a lot of people who still need our help. With our Giving Back Guide, we hope to assist in just that—connecting the many philanthropic and generous people in our area with those who may have fallen on hard times, be it due to their health, their finances or their relationships. It would be impossible to argue that Bergen County is not a community that cares, and that’s just another reason we could never imagine living somewhere else.

Recently, my father (Steven’s father-in-law) was hospitalized with what could have been three separate potentially life-ending issues. A “miracle man,” as some of his doctors have called him, he’s now home recovering comfortably. Thanks to the great care of his doctors, his life has been blessedly extended. The fight within my father, and his optimistic outlook to change his poor habits, made us realize that the status quo is never acceptable, whether it be with our health, our relationships or our work. That is why, for 2016, we are looking to make great changes, as well.

Throughout the upcoming year, you’ll start to see a lot of fresh, new concepts. After 15 years and only a few major changes, it was time to spice things up again, and there’s no place better to start than with our own fashion pages, which from the day we donned a beautiful model in a sequin camouflage dress for our debut issue in December of 2001 have always been a standout feature of our magazines. We are collaborating with beauty mastermind Eric Alt, as well as many great local stylists and boutiques, to create fresh looks that are going to keep Bergen County well dressed all 2016 long!

But first, we finish off 2015 with a bang, bringing you the season’s hottest looks, and some great local stories to boot. Need I say more? You can read it for yourself!

Happy holidays!

Sharon and Steven Goldstein

We have you covered for all your Holiday Gift Needs. Visit our store or shop online.

Bergen

BUSINESS LEADERS RECEPTION

The Foundation for Free Enterprise held their annual Joseph M. Sanzari Business Leaders Reception at the Stony Hill Inn. For more information visit: www.fffe.org

You and your baby’s needs come first at The Valley Hospital. That’s why we provide you with a number of birthing plan options, including holistic care. We are one of the only holistic birthing programs in northern New Jersey, and use proven care techniques both before and during childbirth. Our childbirth experts use therapies like massage, touch therapy and meditation to create a more relaxing setting, which benefits you and your baby. Our Center for Holistic Birth is one more way we connect with you. Whether it’s your first doctor’s visit or the first time you touch your little miracle, we’re here to support you.

To experience The Center for Childbirth at The Valley Hospital, visit ExperienceValleyChildbirth.com.

Follow us at ValleyHealth.com/SocialMedia.

ENVY PARKING BENEFIT

Envy Parking held a benefit at Bottagra Restaurant to support Generation Rescue and Artworks.

HACKENSACKUMC GOLF OUTING

The HackensackUMC Foundation held their annual golf outing at the Ridgewood Country Club. For more information visit: www.hackensackumcfoundation.org

ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER GALA

FOUNDATION FOR FREE ENTERPRISE

The Foundation for Free Enterprise held their 27th annual luncheon honoring J. Fletcher Creamer, Jr. at the Stony Hill Inn. For more information visit: www.fffe.org

CELEBRATING LIFE AND LIBERTY

ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER GOLF CLASSIC

The Englewood Hospital and Medical Center Foundation held their Golf Classic at Montammy Golf Club. For more information visit: www.englewoodhospitalfoundation.org

Jacqueline Bruno-Caroprese Giving Hope to the Homeless

This Good Samaritan from Rutherford gives meals and voices to the “invisible” of Newark.

If it’s Sunday, chances are Rutherford resident Jacqueline Bruno-Caroprese is in Newark giving not only food but also voices to the “invisible”—former Marines, teachers, social workers and more.

In an attempt to shed light on homelessness, Bruno-Caroprese, a coordinator with Friends in Need Foundation, frequents a park behind Penn Station to hand out food and clothing to the hundreds of homeless in Newark.

When the food runs out, as it has done in the past, she gives out hugs as she car-

ries a piece of cardboard announcing “Free Hugs” and listens to their stories.

“Literally, the entire line [of people] stay for hugs,” says the 28-year-old. “It made me realize how much these people just really long for human connection... They don’t have that. People don’t even look at them.”

Bruno-Caroprese, a stay-at-home mother to Giavanna and wife to Brandon, not only looks at them, she hears them loud and clear.

“‘Thank you for stopping to talk to me’

is what Daniel, a homeless man, said to me after I took interest in watching him feed the birds and accepted his invitation to teach me how,” Bruno-Caroprese says. “His smile was contagious and I felt blessed to have had his path cross mine.”

In her “Cardboard Stories Project,” homeless women and men, like Daniel, write on cardboard box tops what they want the world to know about them.

“I was on my way to the NFL but I got hurt”; “I was a teacher’s aid, got accepted to UCLA. I had a baby and gave it all up for

my kid. But I am a lovely mother;” and “I worked with the homeless. When the program relocated, I lost my job and was homeless within three months,” are amongst some of their stories.

Others share their optimism, writing “Don’t judge a book by its cover”; I’m not perfect. Never was. Tried my best. Hoped for the best. Now living life to the best of my ability”; and “I am happy to be alive for a new day.”

Through the Cardboard Stories Project, Bruno-Caroprese asks humanity to “rethink homelessness.”

“These men, women and children are so eager to write something and get their story out there,” notes Bruno-Caroprese, a volunteer firefighter since January 2015. “A lot of us take for granted having some-

one to call or talk to.”

Bruno-Caroprese has now made the weekly trip to Newark for four years. Originally, as head of the youth group at St. Mary’s Church, she was looking for a service project for the high school students.

“I was trying to think of ways these girls could help,” she explains. “We did the soup kitchen thing and started doing collections, but I wanted them to really see that they can’t take things for granted.”

It was then that her brother’s friend contacted her out of the blue telling her about the Friends in Need Foundation.

“The next thing I knew, they were asking me if I’d run the Newark program,” Bruno-Caroprese says. “I feel like I get so much out of it... It definitely changed my life.”

A typical Sunday has Bruno-Caroprese

leaving her home in Rutherford around 11:30 a.m. At 12 p.m. on the dot, food begins to be distributed to the 115 to 160 homeless individuals that have congregated at Peter Francisco Park.

The local McDonald’s donates 125 to135 McDoubles while her grandfather, a grocery store owner, donates crackers, juices and bananas. Usually the food is distributed by 1 p.m., which allows BrunoCaroprese to socialize and make relationships.

It was during socializing that she noticed the homeless didn’t have jackets, socks or backpacks. Bruno-Caroprese immediately began asking friends and family to donate their unwanted clothing.

“I couldn’t sit back and do nothing,” says Bruno-Caroprese, who admires Moth-

er Teresa. “I put it out there on my Facebook and responses like “I’ll drop it off at your mom’s house’ come rolling it. It’s like my prayers are always answered.”

She describes the homeless as compassionate, kind and grateful. In one instance, she recalls a time where she parked her car illegally to unload the food donations.

“A cop was writing me a parking ticket and they were all yelling at him,” remembers Bruno-Caroprese, laughing at the memory.

Perhaps the most meaningful relationship Bruno-Caroprese has made is with Andrea. During her first year with the Friends in Need Foundation, Bruno-Caroprese met Andrea. “She was the same age, Caucasian and from Rutherford. It really hit home,” BrunoCaroprese notes.

Bruno-Caroprese learned Andrea had left her home three years prior. Originally addicted to prescription drugs in high school, Andrea switched to heroin. Following graduation from St. Mary’s, she left Rutherford for the streets of Newark.

“I told her ‘I’ll be back here every Sunday. Let’s make it our goal that you’ll be on this side of the line.’ Four years later, I’m the godmother to her daughter. She’s a medical assistant now and one of my greatest friends,” says Bruno-Caroprese of Andrea, who now helps Bruno-Caroprese hand out food on Sundays. “You can really bring this into your everyday life. It can go so much more than just handing out food.”

Bruno-Caroprese is always in need of donations, whether it be food, clothes, backpacks, books and toiletries. Volunteers are also needed to distribute the donations. Volunteers may be 16 years of age and up, and community service hours for high school graduation may be earned. Volunteers under 16 years of age must have a parent present.

“I tell everyone that comes to volunteer that it’s very in-your-face. You’re right there. There’s no counter. You’re having conversations, getting to know them, and that’s what I love most about it,” she explains. “Mother Teresa said, ‘Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.’... Spread love the next time you see someone sitting alone or begging for food.”

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to

BC THE MAG.

THE DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE OF NEW JERSEY

Snyder & Sarno, LLC is a law firm which continues to grow and provide exceptional service throughout New Jersey. Family Law attorneys and founding partners, Angelo Sarno and Edward S. Snyder, both of whom have been recognized among the finest family law practitioners in the state, have developed a successful team of attorneys with depth and expertise in the practice areas of Family Law, Personal Injury and Medical Malpractice. The firm is equipped with litigation and mediation teams, which create an excellent balance and offer a unique approach to handling challenging matters. Clients receive individualized service from these dedicated, experienced attorneys.

In addition to the talent acquired over the years, Snyder & Sarno, LLC has expanded offices. In 2011, the Roseland law firm launched the opening of a second office in Somerville. John J. Trombadore of the firm handles arbitrations and mediation in the firm’s Somerville Office. The firm’s expansion also included the addition of the Honorable Thomas P. Zampino, a retired a family part judge of twenty years with the Superior Court, Essex County. Judge Zampino serves as of counsel for the firm, providing mediation and arbitration services in each of the firm’s offices.

The firm also maintains a third office in Bergen County, which is conveniently located in the prestigious Court Plaza Building, opposite the Bergen County Courthouse in Hackensack. Joseph V. Maceri, Esq. is the managing partner of the firm’s Hackensack office.

Mr. Maceri has extensive knowledge and experience in the field of family law and has focused his career on providing extraordinary service, which most often exceeded client expectations. He has great compassion for his clients while aggressively acting on their behalf as their advocate. Mr. Maceri is listed New Jersey Super Lawyers-Rising Stars published by Thomson Reuters as a family law attorney. He was a previous recipient of Top 40 under 40 awards both by the National Trial Lawyers and also by NJBIZ. Mr. Maceri was also recognized as a recipient of Who’s Who among Italian American Professionals for his outstanding service to the community and also by Ten Leaders of Matrimonial & Divorce Law, New Jersey Age 45 & Under.

Mr. Maceri is a barrister for the Barry Croland Northern New Jersey Family Inn of Court and volunteers as an expert panelist for the Bergen and Passaic County Superior Courts for the Early Settlement Programs. Mr. Maceri’s expertise in matrimonial law combined with his continued success fits the criteria of this already established firm.

If you need help with your divorce or family law matter, contact Joseph V. Maceri, Esq. at jmaceri@snydersarno.com or visit the firm’s website, www.snydersarno.com, for more information about this premier law firm.

ROSELAND

425 Eagle Rock Avenue Floor 2

Roseland, NJ 07068

PH: (973) 274-5200

FX: (973) 274-5202

HACKENSACK

Court Plaza North 25 Main Street, 6th Floor

Hackensack, NJ 07601

PH: (201) 488-3366

FX: (201) 488-1366

SOMERVILLE 1 Eastern Avenue Suite 2W

Somerville, NJ 08876

PH: (908) 927-0200

FX: (908) 927-0207

ANNUAL CIGAR DINNER EXTRAVAGANZA

The owners of the Venetian, Seasons and Shadybrook Catering held their annual Cigar Dinner at the Venetian in Garfield. The evening benefits five local PBA organizations.

Get centered.

You’re the focus of our attention.

A physician-led team to help you breathe through the pain, get stronger, and feel better.

Our experts at The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine are reimagining what wellness looks like. Medically supervised yoga, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, stress management, and massage. One more reason to make Englewood Hospital and Medical Center your hospital for life

Ellen Reinkraut

Soul Reflections

Inspired by the mystical elements of life, she paints with substance rooted in spirit.

The paintings of Ellen Reinkraut affirm views of life and the universe.

Creative expression is a constant in Ellen Reinkraut’s life. In both her painting and teaching, Reinkraut, who has a BFA in Art Education from the University of Cincinnati, turns the autobiographical into personal metaphor and symbols, which she then makes into art. She inspires her students to do so as well.

y art is layered with meaning. The paintings are journeys into passionate, mysterious places. Drawing from an intuitive well, they are empowered by the intention to promote well-being and manifest light.”

y paintings reach for authenticity, self-discovery and exploration of the unknown.”

At Active, we strongly believe in the team concept of care. We work closely together sharing knowledge, expertise and state-of-the-art medical technologies, so that every patient receives the full benefit of our shared resources.

Our full-service, multi-specialty practice features board certified and fellowship trained physicians who are all recognized as being tops in their fields. WHERE YOU GO FOR TREATMENT CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Michael L. Gross, MD

Specialty: Sports Medicine

Knees & Shoulders

A. Ylenia Giuffrida, MD

Specialty: Hand & Elbow

Oscar Vazquez, MD

Specialty: Sports Medicine

Ira Esformes, MD

Specialty: General Orthopedics

James C. Natalicchio, MD

Specialty: Back & Neck

Richard D. Rhim, MD

Specialty: Spine Surgery

Thomas K. John, MD

Specialty: Joint Replacement

Michael T. Benke, MD

Specialty: Sports Medicine

COCCIA FOUNDATION

The Coccia Foundation held their annual golf outing at White Beeches Country Club, with the reception at The Estate at Florentine Gardens. For more information wisit: www.cocciafoundation.org

A.I.R. EXPRESS GOLF OUTING

Winning Combination

When the nonprofit Bergen Volunteer Center and tech company Synetek Solutions teamed up the result was a win-win partnership that now offers better and more efficient service to those it serves.

With its 50th anniversary in 2016 right around the corner, the Bergen Volunteer Center is ready to prove that it’s not your typical non-profit organization. And helping it stand out is the technology company, Synetek Solutions.

This partnership developed approximately three years ago after the Volunteer Center experienced a server crash and glitch in the back-up system. It was then that Synetek Solutions’ CEO Jhovanny Rodriguez offered to help.

“We have tech support that rivals any major corporation in America and I’m really proud of that,” said Lynne Algrant, CEO of the Bergen Volunteer Center, which is based in Hackensack, NJ. “Synetek Solutions has been incredible to us. Too often business doesn’t necessarily see non-profits as potential customers. Yes, I’m a non-profit in the business of helping people, but I have the same challenges as any million-dollar business that employs 15 people. I contribute to the economy in similar ways. Synetek Solutions is willing to be our innovative partner to both advance their business, and to help us be better at the business we’re in.”

Rodriguez’s idea to connect with the Bergen Volunteer Center stemmed from his involvement with the Bergen LEADs, a program that teaches the civics and public policies that make Bergen County operate.

“[Jhovanny] loved the Bergen LEADS–he was so excited by it–that he came to the Volunteer Center and said, ‘I’m just so appreciative of the program, I really want to do something to help. How can Synetek help you guys?’” Algrant noted. “He’s got a smart business model, and it happens to be very affordable to my organization. Most importantly, it gives me access to his expertise. I have chief information officer thinking, without the expense on my payroll.”

Synetek Solutions not only maintains the server, it’s also working to continuously advance the Bergen Volunteer Center to work more efficiently. In ad-

Continued on pg. 48

The Rejuvenator is a unique non-surgical treatment plan that stimulates your skin to refresh, tighten and tone in order to restore a more youthful appearance. Dr. Boss utilizes state of the art technologies and your body’s own growth factors to correct the underlying conditions associated with aging skin, sun damage and acne scars. The Rejuvenator is a customized program that creates long lasting results. Treatments

or no

Continued from pg. 47

dition, with a cloud-based system, Synetek Solutions has developed a network that Volunteer Center staff can log into both inoffice and remotely.

Introducing our newest addition...

Introducing our newest addition...

Offering long hours from 6:30AM to 6:30PM

Experienced and certified CPR care givers

One of the most helpful improvements, however, has been to the CHORE Service, a program that helps senior citizens stay active while simultaneously helping improve the safety of other senior citizens through tasks such as installing grab bars, railings and new locks. According to Algrant, CHORE’s extremely complex scheduling had previously always been done by hand. When Synetek Solutions came on board, however, this handwritten system was replaced with a custom-built “smart” database that “thinks” like Maureen McCormick, CHORE program director. When a client calls in, the system can determine if one of the Volunteer Center’s three vans will be in the area, then suggest three available times to schedule the appointment, resulting in a more efficient process and

Introducing our newest addition...

Nurse available on site

Outdoor playground courtyard

Offering long hours from 6:30AM to 6:30PM

Experienced and certified CPR care givers

Nurse available on site

Affordable fees for both full-time and part-time services

Outdoor playground courtyard

Offering long hours from 6:30AM to 6:30PM

Nurse available on site

Introducing our newest addition...

Outdoor playground courtyard

Affordable fees for both full-time and part-time services

Experienced and certified CPR care givers

Affordable fees for both full-time and part-time services

Providing all your childcare needs for newborns to 24 months

Providing all your childcare needs for newborns to 24 months

Offering long hours from 6:30AM to 6:30PM

817 River Road, New Milford, NJ 07646

Experienced and certified CPR care givers

Nurse available on site

Outdoor playground courtyard

Phone: 201.483.3715

Affordable fees for both full-time and part-time services

817 River Road, New Milford, NJ 07646

Phone: 201.483.3715

Email: childcare@hovnanianschools.org www.hovnanianschools.org

Email: childcare@hovnanianschools.org www.hovnanianschools.org

Providing all your childcare needs for newborns to 24 months

817 River Road, New Milford, NJ 07646

Phone: 201.483.3715

shorter waiting times for clients.

Currently, Synetek Solutions introduced Bergen Volunteer Center to Greenlink Voice of IP Phone systems. In addition to user-friendly access to voicemail and email, and call forwarding, the Greenlink phones can be taken home in an emergency in order to keep Volunteer Center staff connected to office calls.

“During Hurricane Sandy and Snow Storm-maggedon, we realized how important it is for us to be connected to the office in real time,” Algrant remarked. For the future, Synetek Solutions has suggested tablets for the CHORE vans so that the volunteers can fill out their reports after each job while on the road. While Algrant thinks this might have to wait for some of the Baby Boomers to join the vans, the Volunteer Center is excited about the coming changes.

“With Synetek as our partner, they help us think about how we can stay cur-

Continued on pg. 50

Continued from pg. 49

rent and how technology can continue to make our work get even better,” Algrant said. “Because the less time we have to spend scheduling and the fewer things we have to do by hand, the more time I have for my team to do more important things. It means the director of the CHORE program to can network with senior citizens centers to make sure people know about CHORE. Businesses have always thought this way: How can we be more productive, more efficient to do what we need to do? Businesses do that to maximize profit. I want to do it to maximize helping more people.”

The innovations Synetek has introduced have not only made the inner workings of the Bergen Volunteer Center more efficient, they have also allowed the Volunteer Center to track data that demonstrates its impact on Bergen County.

“We don’t have to rely on anecdotes. We can actually pull information to prove the difference we are making,” Algrant explained. “In the past 18 months, our CHORE Service did a job in 68 out of the 70 municipalities in Bergen County and we served clients in various zones of the county quite evenly, as well... So when people ask me, ‘So you’re the Bergen Volunteer Center, do you really reach all parts of the county?’, and I can say ‘Yes, we do, and I can show you.’ The fact that I can put my hands on that information in less than

an hour is because we are really using technology in a way that makes us smarter and in ways that make us much more productive and wiser.”

All of the support has helped to push the Bergen Volunteer Center to be the best it can be, helping as many people as they can reach.

“I think that what’s true of all non-profits is we’re like the little engine that could,” Algrant said. “We do great work and we rely on the community for the resources to do it. I would just want people to know that an investment with the Volunteer Center really has a huge impact on Bergen County and our neighborhoods because we are maximizing the resources people give us by the kinds of relationships we have with volunteers and with vendors. So if you make an investment with the Volunteer Center, I can promise that it will have a multiplier effect in terms of the difference it makes on the community. And again, I’m incredibly proud of that. How lucky am I that if I ask for a donation, I can turn around and tell someone exactly how their donation will make an impact. “

Tara DeLorenzo is a freelance writer. Visit www.bergenvolunteers.org and www.syneteksolutions.com for more info.

PLAY FOR P.I.N.K.

Play for P.I.N.K. held their annual golf and tennis outing at Edgewood Country club in River Vale.

Exploring the Wines of South Africa

An emerging region finally makes its mark in America.

South African wines, particularly the famous Constantia dessert wines, date back to the mid-17th century and appear in novels by Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. And though they’ve had a minor presence in the U.S. over the past few years, sommeliers are impatiently waiting for them to have their “moment.” With the country itself becoming a popular resort destination, and the wine regions of Stellanbosch and Paarl gaining international acclaim, that moment may be now.

Mulderbosch Faithful Hound 2013 (Western Cape)

One challenge traditionally faced by South Africa is a perception that its wines—especially the pinotages—exude a pungent note often described as “burnt rubber.” After much research and replanting, most exported wines no longer feature the off-putting flavor, and instead exhibit lush fruits as a lead. Faithful Hound is a classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. A tight, dense wine, aromatic notes include very ripe black cherries, fresh earth, tobacco and oak. On the palate, firm tannins support dark fruits and forest floor. Pair with grilled lamb and roasted red peppers, or curried goat and vegetables. $25

Oldenburg Vineyards

Rhodium Red 2012 (Stellenbosch)

Named after a rare metal related to platinum and primarily found in South Africa, this blend of Merlot (53%), Cabernet Franc (40%) and Malbec (7%) is a lush, refined and classic red blend. The winery, situated in the Banghoek Valley, once shared its rolling hills with leopards. What began as a family farm in the early 1950s, transformed into vineyards by the 1960s, which were completely replanted in 2007. On the nose, black cherries, savory herbs and a hint of smoke dominate. On the palate red fruits lead, with notes of clean oak from 19 months spent in French oak. Pair with beetroot ravioli, shiitake mushrooms and butternut squash. $25

Mulderbosch

Sauvignon Blanc 2013 (Western Cape)

South Africa has become increasingly well known for its Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc wines, one of the first wines produced by the vineyard back in 1987. Winemaker Adam Mason sources from across the Cape, conducting cool-weather morning harvests, and fermenting on the lees as long as possible. The wine boasts a vibrant green tone in both color and aroma, with notes of fresh green figs, lime, grapefruit and honeysuckle. On the palate, it boasts clean, medium acids, with mineral and herbaceous notes raking along the mid- and back palate. Pair with grilled fish or pasta with steamed shellfish and grilled artichoke. $18

Eikendal Charisma 2012 (Stellenbosch)

One of the great trends in South African wines is a unique mash-up of Old and New World wine styles. This Swiss-owned winery lies on a broad valley floor and boasts a beautifully designed tasting room and lodge on-site. The wine is a blend of Shiraz (78%), Petit Verdot (17%) and Sangiovese (5%), or as the winery says, “Rhone meets Spain meets Italy.” The fruit-driven (New World-style) wine is intensely aromatic, with notes of black currant, blackberry and plum. On the mouth, it’s clean and collected, featuring soft tannins. Hints of blackberry, spice and violet finish with an herb garden note. Pair with grilled sausages and onions. $20

Robert Haynes-Peterson is editor of the American Sommelier Association’s 24-week Vinification and Viticulture textbook, and has received certifications from the American Sommelier Association and the Master Mezcalier program.

Hola for the Holidays!

This gift-giving season share the magic of reading with your favorite little ones while helping them to learn about self-acceptance, anti-bullying and multicultural diversity in a fun and engaging way.

BC THE MAG: Congrats on the publication of your new children’s book, Ali and the New Girl ¡Hola, Mi Amiga! What’s it about?

NAYDA RONDON: Thanks! I’m pretty excited to be sharing the story of Ali, a little Cuban-American girl living a happy, comfortable life in an affluent Bergen County community. Ali’s world is disrupted when her maternal grandmother (or abuela) arrives from Cuba to live with Ali’s family. At first, Ali is impatient with and often embarrassed or amused by her abuela’s attempts to fit in. It is only when Ali befriends Lupe, a new girl in school recently relocated from Mexico, that Ali starts to realize how difficult it is to face new people and situations and not feel welcome. She comes to see that whether you are young or old, being the “new kid in town” can be scary and lonely. As Ali learns to understand the fears and feelings of newcomers to a new land, she also learns to embrace her own Hispanic heritage, as well as stand up to bullies.

Why did you write this book?

NR: While it’s not biographical, I did draw upon my own Cuban-American roots to teach my daughter, my nieces and nephews, and so many others like them about the importance of valuing your cultural roots.

But while the story may have Hispanic elements, its essential themes are universal. Lessons of multicultural and intergenerational diversity, being proud of who you are and standing up for yourself and others, having the confidence and courage to celebrate our unique differences while still embracing our shared humanity are meant for people of all cultures, ages and races. I hope my book with its messages of inclusiveness, anti-bullying and selfacceptance will serve as a helpful tool for parents and educators seeking to spark thoughtful discussions among young audiences.

What’s the lesson for kids?

NR: It’s essentially telling kids that it’s OK to be different. Let’s face it; everyone wants to fit in. No one really wants to be the “other” or be associated or grouped with those who are “others.” Ali just wants to continue being like everyone else around her. But when her grandmother comes to live with them, this becomes more difficult. Her abuela makes Ali face the fact that she comes from a rich cultural history. And you know what? That’s not bad at all. In fact, it’s great! It’s interesting and enriching, and it adds to what someone has to offer and share with others.

So this book is about accepting anyone who is different—whether it’s an immigrant to a new country; an elderly person who feels lost in a technologically advanced culture; a kid who is autistic, or blind, or in a wheelchair; someone dealing with a serious illness or chronic condition that causes them to look and/or act outside the “norm.” It’s about trying to see things from their point of view, and to understand that by ignoring such people, or standing by while others ridicule or belittle them, we are being just as intolerant as the meanest of bullies.

I want the kids who are lucky enough to live privileged lives, who are popular and accepted and secure, to realize and be sensitive to the fact that not everyone is as fortunate. And rather than continuing the “us” versus “them” way of looking at things, we should instead try to see life from the other side, and reach out in a spirit of welcome.

What are some of the book’s other educational elements and extras?

NR: The 28-page picture book, intended for young readers five to eight years old, features a “Words to Know” page, which translates and defines Spanish words and phrases mentioned in the story. As an optional fun activity, there’s

also a recipe for flan, a delicious custard-like dessert that figures in the story. And as an added bonus, when you purchase the book, you’ll receive a free download of the audio version. Once downloaded to a person’s computer, he or she can listen to the book through the computer’s speakers, burn it to an audio CD or save the file to their portable music device (such as an Apple iPod) and listen on the go!

BC: Where can people get a copy?

NR: Thanks for asking! Ali and the New Girl ¡Hola, Mi Amiga! is available as a paperback for $7.99 from Tate Publishing (www.tatepublishing.com). For the same price, BC THE MAG readers may also order signed author copies—personalized with the name of your kid(s)—directly from me. For more details, contact me at nrondonwriter@gmail.com or P.O. Box 201, Hillsdale, NJ 07642.

Nayda Rondon, BC THE MAG editor and a long-time Bergen County resident, will be reading from and signing copies of her book on Thursday, December 3, 3:45pm at the Montvale Free Public Library (12 Mercedes Drive, Montvale, NJ). Free and open to the public, the event will offer treats and surprises. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. For more info: 201-391-5090, montvalelibraryprograms@gmail.com

Coping with Holiday Stress: The Ultimate Family Survival Guide

The holidays are a wonderful time of year for many of us, but they can also produce a great deal of stress. Running from store to store, managing our finances, dealing with overindulged children and communicating with parents, in-laws and stubborn family members all contribute to rising holiday stress levels. And between the in-laws, ex-laws and steplaws, just deciding which family to spend the holidays with can send us over the edge.

Sometimes, returning home and rekindling the family dynamics we grew up with can be the most stressful of all. No matter what identity we have tried to shape for ourselves in the outside world, many of us are forced to face the roles we were set up to play in childhood when we go back home. For example, how many of us play the role of the People Pleaser? Do you say “yes” to family and friends because saying “no” is too painful? What inner voice tells you that you’re a bad person when you say no to others?

Who is the Caretaker? Do you carry the burden of the family’s problems on your shoulders because it’s your role to take care of everything and everyone? What inner voice makes you feel guilty when asking for help?

What about the Perfectionist? Were you allowed to make mistakes in front of your family? The world would certainly have stopped revolving if your loved ones had ever seen you stumble at times. When you made a mistake, did you identify yourself as the mistake?

Do you play a Defiant Role? This is where you always have to be right with family members, even if it pushes them away. What inner voice tells you that you need to be right even if you push loved ones away?

How many of you play the Invisible Role? When you return home for the holidays, do you lose your voice and disappear

into the background, unable to share your thoughts and feelings with your family?

There are three essentials needed to change your role: awareness, action and maintenance. Without awareness, you won’t understand the ways to change your actions. Without actions, there won’t be newer roles to maintain.

1. Grow in awareness. Why do I act the way I do? What are the payoffs for my actions and what are the costs? The more I grow in awareness, the easier it becomes to change my behaviors. I learn how to say no to this voice in my head that tells me I’m a bad person if I don’t play a certain role.

2. Take positive actions. First, don’t react to situations, or you’ll just do what you’ve always done. Instead, when confronted with a bad situation, pause and solicit the help of others before you take action. This is where it becomes a “we” process and not a “me” process. These are the people in your life you feel safe with. Those that understand and support that you’re trying to change your role. Remember, these individuals are there to support you, not judge you.

3. Maintain these actions. If you don’t continue to maintain these new behaviors, that intrusive voice will grow louder and direct you back to old behaviors.

Remember, the most important relationship we have in life is the one we have with our self. If we are not taking care of that relationship, we will sabotage all of the relationships around us. If we seek approval from those that are incapable of giving us what we deserve, then we will only find rejection and disappointment. Instead,

we need to spend our time with people we feel emotionally safe with, those individuals with whom we can share our feelings without feeling judged. We deserve this. Become the person you want to be, not the one you were set up to be.

Thomas Gagliano is a bestselling author, speaker and life coach. He is the author of DON’T PUT YOUR CRAP IN YOUR KID’S DIAPER: The Clean Up Cost Can Last a Lifetime. Visit www.thomasgagliano. com for more info.

Living Large: Bergen Real Estate at Its Grandest

Celebrated historic New Jersey Palisades Cliffs estate to be sold at auction in early December.

Guernsey’s, long-known for producing innovative, eye-opening auctions, will be entering the world of prestigious real estate when it sells at auction one of New Jersey’s most prestigious properties on December 8.

In the late 1940s, mob kingpin Albert Anastasia, Jr. selected a spectacular 1.3-acre site on the Palisades Cliffs with sweeping Manhattan views on which to build his Italianate-styled mansion. With money being no object, his resulting home, situated at the end of a long, gated drive and amidst a park-like setting, was nothing short of magnificent. Designated 75 Bluff Road, it was no wonder that the estate’s many spacious rooms, complete privacy and proximity to New York City directly across the Hudson made it the ideal setting for many gangland gatherings.

Situated on beautifully landscaped grounds, the entry gates lead to a lengthy driveway and home. The estate includes a swimming pool, pool house, two-car garage and large patio with expansive river and Manhattan skyline views.

The ground floor has a dining room, kitchen, butler’s pantry, breakfast room, full/half bath, wood-paneled library, a sun room, living room, glassed enclosed porch overlooking Manhattan and a bedroom with a separate outer entrance.

Upstairs through the sweeping staircase, is the master bedroom suite, which includes his/her dressing rooms, many large closets and built-ins. There are four full baths, four bedrooms (one with a separate staircase that leads outside), an enclosed terrace and wood paneled den.

The finished basement includes a recreation room, workshop, bathroom, movie theater, bar, spa with sauna and hot tub, laundry room and storage room.

On October 25, 1957, Mr. Anastasia’s ownership of the property, and indeed his life, came to a sudden end when he was assassinated while in the barber’s chair at NYC’s Park Sheraton Hotel. The ensuing years saw the property change hands twice to owners celebrated for their positive accomplishments that were in stark contrast to the efforts of the now late Mr. Anastasia. First Del Webb, part-owner of the New York Yankees, and then popular comedian Buddy Hackett found themselves the owners of this grand mid-20th century estate.

Forty years ago, the property was sold to its present owner, Arthur Imperatore. Highly regarded for his efforts to improve the New Jersey shoreline, Mr. Imperatore’s endeavors include the creation and current ownership of what has come to be considered a critical link between NYC and points West—the NY Waterway ferry system. Mr. Imperatore is parting with the home following the recent passing of his wife.

Guernsey’s is being assisted in the presentation of this stunning estate by the luxury New Jersey real estate firm Prominent Properties.Those wishing to inspect this historic residence and learn further details prior to the auction should contact Guernsey’s at 212-794-2280.

FEES* With Promo Code “Snowman” Visit our website for an application or contact our experienced loan officers today!

Floor is start rate of 2.50% based on NY Prime rate as published in the Wall Street Journal minus .75%. Maximum rate is 15%. Line is a 20-year revolving term with a maturity balloon payment due at the end of 20 years. Minimum line amount is $75,000 and maximum line amount is $500,000. Appraisal required showing a maximum loan to value ratio of 60% on a 1-2 family owner-occupied dwelling in many NJ counties. Rate valid as of November 1, 2015. *The following costs, if applicable, will be at borrowers expense; adequate property insurance, flood insurance and title insurance. Other loan products, rates and terms are available. Subject to change without prior notice. Subject to all bank underwriting conditions.

ORITANI BANK GOLF CLASSIC BENEFITS CFA

Oritani Bank held their annual Golf Classic to benefit the Center for Food Action. For more information visit: www.cfanj.org

Whiskey Worthy of Sinatra

Sinatra Century ($499.99, 1L), at 100 proof, is Jack Daniel Distillery’s tribute to Frank Sinatra. It’s a one-time, extremely limited run (only 100 barrels of the new marque were created in proprietary “Sinatra” barrels). Master distiller Jeff Arnett worked with the Sinatra family to select the perfect blend. Each exclusive bottle is enclosed in a luxury gift box and will offer a selection of previously unreleased Sinatra tracks. Available at select retailers.

Raise Your Glass

Made using a proprietary molding process, PubWARE’s Stemless Wine Glasses ($49.99, set of four 12-oz. glasses) are comfortable in the hand, perfect for enjoying a red wine or keeping a chardonnay chilled longer. The unbreakable Pubware also comes in Tulip (20 oz.), Pint (16 oz.) and Old Fashioned (10 oz.) sizes. Visit www.pubware.com for info.

Kiehl Klaus

Kiehl’s has announced its annual charitable launch: the Limited Edition Crème de Corps Holiday Collection—Crème de Corps Lotion ($29.50, 8.4 oz.; $48, 16.9 oz.), Crème de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Whipped Body Butter ($38) & Limited Edition Gift Set ($29). Available at Kiehl’s stores and Kiehls.com

For That Brigitte Bardot Wink

With LashFood’s Conditioning Liquid Liner ($20, 0.14 fl. oz.), you’ll not only enjoy intense pigment, you’ll also reap the benefit of longer lashes. Formulated with a Nano-peptide complex to rejuvenate lashes, it’s smudge-proof, long-lasting and glides like a dream! Available at www.lashfood.com and www.sephora.com

Light Your Fire!

Give the gift that keeps on giving this holiday season with the Bison Airlighter ($79.95). This rechargeable, refillable and reusable lighter—twice as a hot as a match—ignites flames in seconds. Available at store.thebisoncompany.com

Festive Fragrances

Turn up the heat with these two Raw Spirit Fragrances—Wild Fire ($40, 0.25 fl. oz. rollerball; $90, 1 fl. oz. atomizer) radiates with dry and woody notes to warm the senses. Winter Oak ($40, 0.25 fl. oz. rollerball; $90, 1 fl. oz. atomizer) brings together notes of aged American oak and layers of suede, saffron, Haitian vetiver and musk. Both scents are available at Barneys New York, Barneys.com and Birchbox.com

Outdoor Gear Essential

A novel stocking stuffer, Matador’s Pocket Blanket is made of lightweight parachute material; it’s water- and puncture-resistant and comes in an easy-pack pattern that folds up into wallet size. Available for two people ($29.99) or for one ($19.99) at www.MatadorUp.com, Amazon Prime and select retailers.

Sinatra Picture Book for Kids

Timed to celebrate Sinatra’s 100th birthday this December, FRANKIE LIKED TO SING ($16.95) is the perfect way for grandparents and parents to pass on their love for Ol’ Blue Eyes to a younger generation. Available from Abrams Books for Young Readers.

TRAVELING EXHIBIT: Hosted by Pascack Valley HS Theatre, the traveling exhibit “Letters to Sala, a Young Woman’s Life in Nazi Labor Camps,” a graphic narrative through facsimiles offering a first-hand view of the human drama that unfolded among Jews forced to work as slave laborers during the war, will be on display from Nov. 9-30, in the main lobby of Pascack Valley High School (200 Piermont Ave, Hillsdale). Info: www.pvhstheatre.org

MUSIC CONCERT: On Nov. 15, 2-3PM at Montvale Library (12 Mercedes Dr.), singer Ellen Woloshin will perform popular contemporary hits and select songs from her two CDs. Free and open to the public. Register by phone (201-391-5090), in person, or by email at montvalelibraryprograms@gmail.com

DANCE THEATRE: BALAM Dance Theatre will premiere “Myths and Stars,”

a program of dance and song featuring Inma Heredia, the world’s first Flamenco standup comedian, at Leonia Public Library (227 Fort Lee Rd) on November 15, 2-3PM. Free and open to the public. Contact: 201-592-5770.

HS PLAY: Letters to Sala will be held Nov. 19, 7pm; Nov 21, 1pm & 7pm; Nov. 22, 1pm at Pascack Valley High School (200 Piermont Ave, Hillsdale). Tickets: $12, adults; $5, students. Purchase at www.pvhstheatre.org or pay at the door.

LECTURE: On Nov. 22, 7:30-10PM, Metaphysical Center of NJ will present motivational speaker Kate Neligan’s talk on “How to be a Conscious Superstar” at the Central Unitarian Church (156 Forest Ave, Paramus). Donation: $10, members; $15, guests; $5, students. Info: metaphysicalcenterofnewjersey.org

TERRIFIC

TURKEYS: On Nov. 22, 12:30-4:30PM, families can learn about wild turkeys at the Tenafly Nature Center (313 Hudson Ave). RSVP: 201-568-6093

HUNGER BENEFIT: On Nov. 22, enjoy the Why Hunger benefit concert featuring legendary duo Aztec Two-Step at the Acoustic Cafe at OLM Academy (25 Fremont Ave, Park Ridge). Bring non-perishable food items for the local food pantry collection. Tickets: $25; purchase at www.cafeacoustic.org

FANCY NANCY: On Nov. 29, 1 & 4PM, bergenPAC (30 N. Van Brunt St, Englewood) will hold holiday play Fancy Nancy. Tickets: $15-$39. Purchase at 201-227-1030; bergenpac.org

SANTA TRAIN: From Nov. 29-Dec. 13, 1-4PM, the Whippany Railway Museum (1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany) will hold its annual Santa train ride on weekends. Tickets: $14; $9, kids younger than 12. Info: 973-887-8177

TRIVIA NIGHT: Hosted by Anthony D, Trivia Night will take place on Nov, 30, 8PM at The Owl Pub at Rivara’s (6-18 Maple Ave, Fair Lawn). Info: 201-797-4878

GUITAR WELLNESS:

Instructor Dan Zurich will introduce the acoustic guitar as a tool for helping to achieve mind/ body/spirit balance on Mondays, Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14, Dec. 21, & Dec. 28, 10-11AM at the Montvale Library (12 Mercedes Dr.). Free; inperson registration only. Info: 201-391-5090

HOLIDAY BAZAAR:

On Dec. 2, 5-9PM, B Hive Salon (269 Broadway, Hillsdale) will be hosting a gathering of local artisan vendors for shopping and light refreshments. For info: 201-470-HIVE; TheBHiveSalon.com

HOLIDAY PARADE: As part of Westwood’s annual “Home for the Holidays,” the Parade of Toys will take place on Dec. 5, 6PM at five corners of Westwood Ave & Kinderkamack Rd. There will be various events, great shopping and eats all day.

OPEN HOUSE: Enjoy refreshments, crafts, storytelling and prizes on December 13, 1-4PM at the Hopper Goetschius Holiday Open House (Lake St & E Saddle River Rd, Upper Saddle River). Info: 201-327-8644

Dual Time Manufacture

Self-winding manufacture movement with Silicium technology.

Patented unique time zone quick setting. 18 ct rose gold case. Water-resistant to 30 m. Also available in stainless steel. Limited Edition of 500 pieces.

ULYSSE-NARDIN.COM

THE ART OF FUSION

The Éclipse Ivory Enamel, ref. J012633203

The Éclipse Ivory Enamel, ref. J012633203

Ivory Grand Feu enameled dial. 18-carat red gold case and appliques.

In the 18th century, Pierre Jaquet Droz was the first watchmaker to import timepieces to China.

In the 18th century, Pierre Jaquet Droz was the first watchmaker to import timepieces to China.

Ivory Grand Feu enameled dial. 18-carat red gold case and appliques. Self-winding mechanical movement. Power reserve of 68 hours. Centered hours and minutes, days and months through an aperture at 12 o’clock, pointer-type date, moon phase at 6 o’clock. jaquet-droz.com

Self-winding mechanical movement. Power reserve of 68 hours. Centered hours and minutes, days and months through an aperture at 12 o’clock, pointer-type date, moon phase at 6 o’clock. jaquet-droz.com

TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 STEEL & CERAMIC CHRONOGRAPH

Cara Delevingne challenges rules. Being free-minded is her motto. Like TAG Heuer, she defies conventions and never cracks under pressure.

FRIENDS of HackensackUMC held a luncheon with guest speaker, Dr. Lisa Tank at the Saddle River Inn. For more information visit: www.hackensackumc.org

“Hooray for Happy Hour”

H Linda’s List

ave you ever wondered who came up with the concept of Happy Hour? After all, we all know you never just stay for one hour and you remain very happy for many hours thereafter. In my world this certainly holds true: Happy Hours are a great way to end the day or the week in order to regroup or connect with your besties. And what’s not to love about the half price on vino and select foods?

We all know that Sunday is fun day. So, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (90 The Promenade, Edgewater) here I come. Meet you there at 5pm, Tiffany. I can’t wait; I like their burger—without bread—on a plate with lettuce, tomato and avocado. No fries, either. I swear the chef must moan, “Is that woman with all of the allergies here again?” But I digress. Let’s rewind back to my HH at Fleming’s. The burger is delish and the Cabernet simply yummy. Hurry, Tiff, it’s almost 7pm; let’s order another glass of wine before HH is over. (It always tastes better at the HH price.)

What a fun way to start the week. As you may or may not know, every day is fun day for me. OK, so who likes a Monday morning? Not anyone you or I know, that’s for sure. But no worries; before you know it, it’s Happy Hour. Since I will most likely be shopping (my second favorite thing to do after tennis) at the mall, I will just drop in to Morton’s The Steakhouse (1 Riverside Square Mall, Hackensack). It’s 4:30pm so I’m in luck as I have till 6:30pm before it ends. The shrimps are so big that Morton’s shrimp cocktail is a meal in itself. Even though I’m having fish, I’ll still have red wine. I tend to lean towards red wine because the white wine goes down like water. Yep, that’s me—disciplined. (And if you believe that, I have a bridge for sale.)

Hello, Tuesday. Yes, Donna, I’ll meet you on the fly at 6pm at our customary seats at the bar at Palmers Crossing Restaurant at The Clinton Inn (145 Dean Drive, Tenafly). Its Happy Hour menu really has a lot of great selections and the Cab is really good. We have grilled chicken on a plate with a side salad and a Cabernet or two each. (What can I say? We’re so predictable.)

It’s Wednesday, better known as Hump Day. Yes, of course, I’m going to start my day with a tennis game. So what do you think the girls are scheming even before we hit our first ball? You guessed it! “Where are we going for happy hour tonight?” And the winner is Le Jardin Restaurant (1257 River Road, Edgewater). Gus always is so nice to every customer not just us. The weather was great; the evening was perfect to hang out at their outdoor bar with the breathtaking view of the bridge, where the wonderful duo of Mark and Ted entertained us with their singing. Another fab night with the girls! See you on the court, ladies; get home safe.

Ugh, it’s Thursday and it’s slow going this morning for moi. I got a little too happy the previous night and the whistling of the teapot hurt my head. But once the Advil kicked in, I started to plan my day. Of course I had a return or two at the mall from my shopping spree on Monday. I’m afraid it was a case of buy it, get it home, try it on and wonder, “What were you thinking.” Back it went. My clothing return mission was accomplished just in time for happy hour at The Oceanaire Seafood Room (175 Riverside Square Mall, Hackensack). What a big bar they have and the oysters are so good and the discount HH price makes them even tastier. Who

Linda’s List

doesn’t love a bargain? It’s like clothing on the sale rack; it’s way more appealing than regular-priced items.

Of course I had a glass of wine tonight! A friend once asked me if I considered myself a wine connoisseur. Ready for my response? It’s a doozy. If it’s white or red, dry and not sweet, it’s good to me. She laughed and said stick to your day job writing Linda’s List. I tend to agree.

TGIF—also known as Friday or girls’ night out. I say we meet at HAVEN Riverfront Restaurant & Bar (2 Main Street, Edgewater). HH starts at 5pm so let’s meet at 6pm. Got to take charge. Have you ever tried to organize four women to meet up? Not any easy task at all. If you get there at 6pm, we will have two hours of $7 wines, or a blood orange martini at only $6. What a bargain! I just love Happy Hours.

Let’s eat ’cause I’m hungry. I choose the ahi tuna tacos (I ate the contents sans the shell; gluten allergy, remember). No complaints here.

Bye-bye Friday and the end of the week. Hello Saturday and the start of the weekend. I think I have had my fill of estrogen this week. I’m from the generation where Saturday is date night so (bring on the testosterone). My day begins with—you guessed it—tennis. Then I went shopping for a new outfit for the evening (not like I have nothing to wear in my closets) but it always feels better to have another new outfit. Only women understand that. So, off I went to Lord & Taylor (Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus). I just love their dress department. I think it’s the best around. I’ve been a loyal shopper for more years than I would like to admit. After I’ll get my hair done, of course. I went with my date to Aoyama (French Thai & Japanese) (319 Franklin Avenue, Wyckoff). I know you are dying for details about my date. All I’ll say is he’s smart, kind and makes me laugh! Cute too! And has exceptional taste in wine and woman (notice woman is singular). But enough said about my date. Let’s get back to Aoyama. It has a very extensive menu with incredible food and it’s a BYOB establishment. So don’t leave home without the bottles!

I have had another amazing week living and socializing in Bergen County. It is rated as one of the top counties and it certainly lives up to that.

Ciao for now. See you next time.

Linda Barba is out and about every day of the week! Have something cool for her to check out? Just let us know! Email info@bcthemag.com with “Linda’s List” as the subject.

Also, check out her daily postings at facebook.com/bcthemag

Zilpa’s Café & Grill Cheesecakes

& Cuban-American

food with a unique flair

From household baker to café curator, 21-year-old Zilpa Kelly Rizzo mixed family roots with her sweet tooth to make her dreams come true with the opening of her own restaurant, Zilpa’s Café & Grill.

Zilpa’s Café, which specializes in cheesecake and Cuban-American cuisine and is open for breakfast and lunch, opened earlier this year in Ridgefield Park. Since then, it has developed a range of unique cheesecake products, including Zilpa’s mother’s special stuffed cheesecake recipe, cheesecake rolls and cheesecake empanadas, all made with a sense of love of baking and family tradition.

“I’m always creating different things and that’s the fun part about cooking and baking; it’s the creativity that makes it fun,” Zilpa said. “The most creative things I’ve done there have been the cheesecake rolls and cheesecake empanadas. I’ve offered them to people and they’re just like ‘I’ve never heard of that before.’ The fact that I’ve come up with things that people aren’t used to is great. Also with the cakes, it’s not New York style; it’s different.”

Zilpa discovered her family’s cheesecake was something special when, as a 16-year-old, she brought it in for her high school cooking class during the dessert unit. Her classmates raved about her stuffed cheesecake, and Zilpa’s baking business started soon after.

Before the restaurant, Zilpa’s cheesecake business started from her own family kitchen while she was going to college, studying fashion. With the help of social media, Zilpa was able to spread the word about her products and people would contact her and pick up their orders or she would deliver her baked goods straight to customers.

Just over seven months ago, however, opportunity came knocking. Zilpa had grown up in the food business with her family’s restaurant, making the Rizzos well connected in the industry. So when a location opened up, they received the first call, and the family seized the chance to make Zilpa’s dreams come true.

“I didn’t expect to have a café now,” Zilpa said. “I figured I’d finish school first and have one down the road. But opportunity

came about and we figured it was a great one, so we went for it. We just got a phone call and we were offered to take over. My location is in a truck stop. Before it was a hot dog place, and the people who had owned it asked us if we wanted to take it over and change it into how we wanted to run it and that’s how it all started.”

Zilpa’s Café is more than just decadent desserts, though. There is also a heavy focus on the food, which is centered on a CubanAmerican background, something very important to Zilpa. Her family roots, she says, are what help to make Zilpa’s Café and Grill what is it now.

“With the café, it’s Cuban-American so we also focus on the food,” she said. “When

people come in, we give them the whole background about everything and then we sell the cakes, too. My family has helped to make this café successful. Definitely, if it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be here now, so having their support helps; having them all by my side has been great.”

Her uncle is playing a special part, guiding Zilpa on expanding her brand name through increasing her range of products, as well as marketing her desserts to farmer’s markets and food stores, where she wants her cheesecake empanadas and rolls to be frozen products that families all over can heat up at home and enjoy.

“My main focus is getting my products out there,” she said. “That’s also my biggest

challenge, too. There’s only so much you can do with social media stuff. So far, with everything we’ve been up to, my name has gotten out there much more, which I’m happy about.”

To market her business, Zilpa utilizes Instagram and Facebook, but mostly, it seems word of mouth has been the key to her success, and with the more positive feedback that comes in, the more excited Zilpa gets about her business.

“I would love to add another location,” she said. “If we get it out a lot more, it’s definitely something we’d think about in a few years.”

This café has come a long way from Zilpa’s kitchen, something she is grateful for, especially with all the added space she has now to whip up new creations.

“Everything I have now is everything I always wanted to do, future-wise,” Zilpa noted. “We wanted to be able to combine the food and cakes together. When I get my name out there more and my products into stores, that’s when I’d open a store just for the cakes. I knew coming out of college that I would combine the restaurant and cakes together. I’ve always been around the restaurant business with my family, and I was a waitress and it made me a people person and I enjoy it a lot more than fashion. I got out of high school and decided to go for fashion, not really knowing what I wanted to do, but now, doing this, I realized I want this to be my career.”

With such passion behind her work, it’s no wonder that Zilpa is constantly coming up with new confections to share with her customers. While her favorite has been her cannoli cheesecake, she has found that customers have been responding best to her hazelnut cheesecake, a cheesecake where she puts the crust at the bottom, adds the inside filling then spreads the hazelnut on top of that before finishing up with the outer crust. However, her growing variety of flavors promises something for everyone to enjoy.

“Food-wise and cheesecake-wise, we do a lot of different things here. It’s Cuban American, so you get a little of everything,” Zilpa said. “When you come here, it’s an experience that you’ll want to come back for more.”

BERGEN COUNTY POLICE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION

The Bergen County Police Chiefs Association held their 33rd annual Jack Murphy Golf Outing at White Beeches Country Club. Fro more information visit: www.bergencountypolicechiefs.org

SHOULDN’T A DAILY MEAL PLAN, INCLUDE LUNCH?

At The Atrium, The Allendale Community for Senior Living’s Assisted Living Community, residents enjoy three (3) Chefprepared meals a day, including a delicious, gourmet lunch at no additional cost.

It’s just one more reason life is fuller here, and why, at The Allendale Community for Senior Living, you’ll always find, Care You Can Trust.

At The Allendale Community for Senior Living, there are no upfront fees, application costs or entrance/buy-in fees. Just one affordable, all-inclusive monthly rental fee for the lifestyle and specialized care all older adults deserve.

To arrange a tour or learn more about The Atrium Assisted Living at The Allendale Community for Senior Living, Call (201) 825-0660 or visit www.allendalecommunity.com

’Tis the Season to be Stylin’

Location: Private home, Mahwah

Makeup: Cori Colonna Leontaris

Hair: Vilsen, Eric Alt Salons, Ho Ho Kus, Ridgewood, Saddle River and Woodridge

Models: Sarah, Vanessa and Alexa

Photographer: Bill Streicher

Festively Casual

These fashionable looks are perfect for laid-back weekend gatherings.

BACKPACKS FOR LIFE

Backpacks for Life held their 1st annual golf outing at North Jersey Country Club. For more information visit: www.backpacksforlife.org

Forward Thinking:

An Educational Path to Personal Growth and Well-Being

The Pascack Valley Regional High School District aims to create a “stress-free zone” for students.

What’s the point of taking final exams?

For years, students have been asking themselves this question as they struggle to survive the pressure-packed schedules during midterms and finals. Given within the last few weeks, maybe even days of a school’s marking period deadline, cumulative sit-down exams often seem better suited to test students’ abilities to handle stress rather than actually measure their intelligence and knowledge. As an educational system that seeks to foster a learning environment of innovation, inquiry and individuality, the top-ranking Pascack Valley Regional High School District—comprised of two schools encom-

passing the towns of Hillsdale, Montvale, River Vale and Woodcliff Lake—has been asking the same question. The district’s answer: a series of changes that aim to proactively address the evolving educational challenges of today’s demanding society.

The documentary film A Race to Nowhere, which calls society to examine the pressure-filled ways of guiding students to success, inspired the changes, implemented for the coming 2015-2016 school year. The most significant modifications: the elimination of marking periods and required two-hour midterm and final exams.

“Marking periods began well over 100 years ago,” noted Erik Gundersen,

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superintendent of the district. “They create artificial dates and deadlines, which only add to the pressures of today’s academic standards, where high expectations for students to achieve often outweigh what’s truly important in the growth of a child.”

In order to lessen this stress on students—already simultaneously bombarded with homework, exams and projects under this “old school” academic system—the district will now offer a full-year running record of grades online, allowing students and parents to view progress at all times. Known as the “open

grade book program,” this change hopes to keep the quality of a pupil’s work and his or her well-being high throughout the entire school year.

“I strongly believe that the changes being made are positive steps that will help minimize unnecessary stress for students,” said Glenn DeMarrais, principal of Pascack Hills High School.

With the elimination of traditional weeks of midterms and finals, teachers now have more flexibility in determining

the most effective way to assess their students.

“Formally mandated exams no longer meet modern styles of teaching,” Gundersen noted. “Everyday, educational techniques are stepping away from the rigid boundaries of two-hour sit-down exams, which in the long run do little to prepare you for the real world.”

However, the move to discontinue formal exams comes with concerns and questions about the potential risks. “I wonder if losing the experience of managing time in preparing for multiple two-hour exams won’t be detrimental to a student’s preparation for college,” said Ed Sandt, a teacher from the English department at Pascack Hills High School. “But how will we know the value of these

traditional methods if we don’t try the alternative? I am looking forward to trying something new and using this experience to continue to hone our methods and make adjustments in an effort to move closer to the ideal school environment— something our district has done for many years past to great effect.”

Kaitlyn Mahaffey, a Pascack Hills psychology teacher, agreed. “Whenever other people ask me about the school that I teach at, I describe the district as progressive because I genuinely believe that it is,” she said. “As teachers, we are encouraged to try new things in our classrooms all the time. I’m looking forward to getting rid of midterms and finals, and I’m anxious about the running grade book because I’m not sure what to

expect, but the only way to learn from it is to be in it.”

As the educational innovators behind the first-ever laptop initiative in New Jersey, virtual learning opportunities and the most recently instituted “Pascack Schedule,” a modified block schedule that promotes wellness and intrinsic learning, the district continues to constantly ask questions and push past comfort zones.

“Now it’s time to ask the hard questions as to why we do things in education the way they were done a century ago,” stated Tom DeMaio, principal of Pascack Valley High School. “The world in which we live has changed drastically since then, so why hasn’t the educational system changed along with it? Over the past 12

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years, Pascack Valley has not only had the courage to question why, but it has been brave enough to make bold changes to an antiquated system that must be altered to meet the needs of today’s learners.”

Additional changes, including engagement in two virtual days in the middle of the year prompted by the success of a “virtual” school day on what would have been a snow day last winter and modifications to the traditional classroom space to better promote flexible learning environments, are expected to take place. Through each proposed alteration, it seems as though the greatest challenge is not the changes themselves, but the district’s ability to effectively communicate to parents and pupils why and how de-

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parting from the status quo is ultimately beneficial.

While acknowledging that this new approach provides teachers and students with more assessment options and methods, a rising junior from Pascack Hills High School expressed some pre-schoolyear jitters. “I’m nervous that I will become too comfortable with smaller tests and be completely overwhelmed when college comes around and I have several exams all at once,” she said. “Also, the idea of one continuous grade throughout the entire year leaves me with mixed feelings. In years past, four semesters presented four separate chances to work towards improving your grade. Without this organized division of the year, stu-

dents lose the ability to mentally start fresh each marking period.”

Already several months into the school year when she was interviewed, a junior at Pascack Valley High School also voiced mixed feelings. “With a demanding academic schedule, I have not felt that my stress has decreased in any way by the new changes,” she admitted. “However, I do appreciate how Pascack Periods (added during my sophomore year) allow students to explore interests they normally wouldn’t be able to.”

Clearly, this educational experiment is a work in progress. Change and uncertainty are rarely ever welcome components of any situation, but for true progress to take place, they must figure into

the equation. Trial and error with occasional “failures” along the way are inevitable parts of the process that will hopefully lead to ultimate success. So while there are a lot of question marks, one thing is certain: if no changes are ever attempted, failure will be assured. This new system may indeed result in even more anxious students, but it seems worth the try, especially given its potential benefits.

“I hope to see a healthier, academically successful and passionate student who finally understands why he or she is going to school,” concluded Gundersen. “I want each and every individual to have a clear purpose in a healthy and comfortable environment.”

THE VALLEY HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

The Valley Hospital Foundation held its 35th Anniversary celebration at The Skylands Manor. For more information visit: www.valleyhospitalfoundation.org

The Tides Estate Where Dreams Really Do Come True

Every girl dreams of her perfect wedding day—the dress, the flowers, the music, even the invitations. Nothing else matters, though, if the setting to showcase all of these carefully chosen details is not precisely perfect. Luckily for brides and grooms, The Tides Estate in North Haledon, NJ, is in the business of offering a lovely setting and outstanding services to make all wedding dreams come true.

The Tides Estate has been operating as a successful catering facility for the

past 37 years, providing both indoor and outdoor ceremonies on its seven acres of pristine grounds. Independently owned by John Mele, a man who saw the potential of this great property, the estate is constantly undergoing enhancements and additions to stay relevant and appealing. Primarily serving as a wedding venue, although occasionally host to various fundraisers and other social functions, The Tides Estate boasts two striking banquet rooms with features such as crystal chandeliers, a spiral staircase and

more. While both rooms offer ample space to accommodate large parties, the Grand Ballroom can hold up to 350 guests, greeting all who enter with elegant wooden floors and 26-foot ceilings.

“Modern brides love it,” comments Tito Freire, banquet manager and general manager of The Tides Estate. “The updated space is modern and sleek, and has a great dance floor and photo opportunities that are ideal for weddings.” The Manchester Room offers similar catering opportuni-

ties on a smaller scale, with a capacity of approximately 150 people. To accompany these idyllic backdrops, available catering options deliver beautifully presented dishes prepared with the finest ingredients and expertise customized to suit exacting tastes and styles.

The property itself includes magnificent gardens and gazebos in a peaceful setting that caters to outdoor ceremonies, bridal party photos or a romantic stroll through a fairytale scene. “The estate’s private location sets it apart from other catering venues,” says Freire. “It is surrounded by nothing but charming homes in a suburban area, away from all major highways and congestion—one of New Jersey’s best kept secrets.”

Although the estate’s secret may not be so secret anymore. It now hosts more than 240 weddings per year, with as many as five to ten ceremonies every weekend. Yet, despite this high number, Freire and his co-manager Tom Austin, a culinary institute chef, take pride in the fact that the company never starts two ceremonies or receptions simultaneously, providing an immense amount of personal attention for each party.

“Brides and grooms praise everything about it,” continues Freire. “The positive feedback just keeps coming.” In fact, reviews on leading wedding planning website “The Knot,” give The Tides Estate five stars and feature stellar reviews. “The Tides Estate truly made our day spectacular. Our

friends and family are still raving about the food and the beautiful venue,” wrote one bride.

For over three decades, generations of brides-to-be continue to choose The Tides Estate.

“Different generations of mothers and daughters often return,” Freire notes. “Not only is this a testament to the level of service we provide, but it also shows just how special The Tides Estate truly is. The boss is a great man, the estate is a great establishment, and continues to be a great business for 37 years and counting.”

Megan Montemarano is a freelance writer who covers lifestyle topics.

PONY POWER GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING

Pony Power Therapies held their annual golf and tennis outing at Montammy Golf Club. For more information visit: www.ponypowernj.org

DR. BRUCE G. FREUND

2015 Holiday Movie Preview

Hollywood backloads many of its high-profile pictures toward the end of the year, hoping for both big audiences and Academy Award consideration. This past fall saw the release of some impressive pictures — Sicario, The Martian, The Walk, Pan, Steve Jobs, Crimson Peak and Suffragette. The coming months are packed with interesting and varied motion pictures. The following are ten of the movies that will come to theaters in November and December, along with descriptions and their release dates.

The Peanuts Movie

November 6

Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts gang star in this 3D animated movie, the first full-length feature film to be based on the comic strip characters in 35 years. Charlie Brown, the world’s most beloved underdog, embarks on an epic and heroic quest while his best pal, the lovable beagle Snoopy, takes to the skies to pursue his arch-nemesis, the Red Baron. The film will commemorate the 65th anniversary of the comic strip created by Charles M. Schulz. At its height, “Peanuts” was published daily in 2,600 newspapers in 75 countries, in 21 languages. Over the nearly 50 years that “Peanuts” was published, Schulz drew close to 18,000 strips. The new film was written and produced by Schulz’s son, Craig, his grandson, Bryan, and Cornelius Uliano, and directed by Steve Martino (Horton Hears a Who!, Ice Age: Continental Drift).

Trumbo

November 6

Dalton Trumbo (Bryan Cranston), once Hollywood’s highest-paid writer, was the most prominent and outspoken of the political activists who became targets of anti-Communist fear mongers when America’s World War II alliance with the Soviet Union turned into a Cold War in the late 1940s. This film tells the story of how Trumbo and other Hollywood figures were blacklisted from the entertainment industry for their political beliefs. Hedda Hopper (Helen Mirren), a powerful gossip columnist of the time, and John Wayne (David James Elliott), one of Hollywood’s legendary movie stars, were instrumental in frightening studio heads into instituting the blacklist. It was Trumbo’s open disdain of the House Un-American Activities Committee when called to testify that led to the group known as the Hollywood Ten drawing jail time after being convicted of contempt of Congress. Also starring are Elle Fanning, Diane Lane, John Goodman, Roger Bart and Louis C.K.

The 33

November 13

Shortly after the owner of a gold and copper mine in Copiapo, Chile, ignores warnings that the mine is unstable, disaster strikes. On August 5, 2010, the mine collapses, trapping 33 men underground. With more than 2,000 feet of rock in their way, members of the rescue team work tirelessly for 69 days to save the seemingly doomed men. Beneath the rubble, the miners begin an epic quest to survive, contending with suffocating heat and lack of food and water. With family, friends and the rest of the world watching, the rescue becomes a race against time and a test of human resolve. Mario Sepulveda (Antonio Banderas) becomes the leader of the miners, rationing what food they have and quelling outbursts of violence and despair. When the mine owner fails to attempt any rescue, the government of Chile intervenes and orders the use of drills to reach the miners. The drills succeed in boring a narrow shaft through which the miners receive food, clothing and TV communication with the surface while further measures are taken to extract them. Lou Diamond Phillips stars as Luis “Don Lucho” Urzua, the shift foreman, who took a leading role while the miners were trapped and helped make more accurate maps of the cave for the rescue crews.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2

November 20

With the nation of Panem in a full-scale war, Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) confronts President Snow (Donald Sutherland) in the final showdown. Teamed with a group of her closest friends—including Gale (Liam Hemsworth), Finnick (Sam Claflin) and Peeta (John Hutcherson)—Katniss goes off on a mission with the unit from District 13 as they risk their lives to liberate the citizens of Panem and stage an assassination attempt on President Snow, who has become increasingly obsessed with destroying her. The mortal traps, enemies and moral choices that await Katniss will challenge her more than any arena she faced in The Hunger Games. Directed by Francis Lawrence and based on the novel by Suzanne Collins, this film is the second part of the third book of the trilogy. Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Julianne Moore, Jeffrey Wright, Jena Malone and Stanley Tucci are featured.

Victor Frankenstein

November 25

Victor Frankenstein (James McAvoy) and his equally brilliant protege, Igor Strausman (Daniel Radcliffe), share a noble vision of aiding humanity through their groundbreaking research into immortality. But Victor’s experiments go too far, and his obsession has horrifying consequences. Only Igor can bring his friend back from the brink of madness and save him from his monstrous creation. This reimagining of the Frankenstein mythos is seen from the point of view of Igor, the hunchbacked assistant of the mad scientist responsible for patching together a living dead monster. Hollywood has tapped into the early 19th century Mary Shelley novel countless times with many twists and imaginative variations, both in period and modern. This version is based less on Shelley’s novel than on the Frankenstein myth that has emerged from decades of movies. Though the original novel has no such character, Igor has frequently been a minor, if colorful, role in movies (including Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein as EYE-gor). Here, we learn of the troubled young assistant’s dark origins, his friendship with medical student Victor Frankenstein and his part in the emergence of his mentor as “monster maker.”

Secret in Their Eyes

November 20

A tight-knit team of rising FBI investigators—Ray (Chiwetel Ejiofor) and Jess (Julia Roberts), along with their District Attorney supervisor Claire (Nicole Kidman)—were torn apart when they discovered that Jess’ teenage daughter was brutally and inexplicably murdered. Now, thirteen years later, after obsessively searching every day for the elusive killer, Ray finally uncovers a new lead that he’s certain can permanently solve the case, nail the vicious murderer and bring long-desired closure to the team. No one is prepared, however, for the shocking secret that will unleash the destructive effects of personal vengeance. Interweaving past and present, this gripping mystery explores the boundaries between justice and revenge and questions the extent to which people will go to right a terrible wrong.

In the Heart of the Sea

December 11

In 1820, crewmen (Chris Hemsworth, Benjamin Walker, Cillian Murphy) aboard the New England vessel Essex face a harrowing battle for survival when a whale of mammoth size and strength attacks with force, crippling their ship and leaving them adrift in the ocean. Pushed to their limits by storms, dehydration, starvation, panic and despair, the survivors try to stay alive any way they can. Their incredible tale was the inspiration for Herman Melville’s Moby Dick. The actual journey of the Essex began on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. The goal: to hunt sperm whales and bring back their oil. The ship experienced storm damage and spent a month rounding Cape Horn before its whaleboats were lowered to chase and harpoon the creatures in an area that had recently been discovered by whalers. A large bull sperm whale attacked the ship several times, damaging it beyond repair. Thousands of miles from shore, the crew gathered what provisions they could into the whaleboats and set out to reach land. Directed by Ron Howard (Beautiful Mind, Frost/Nixon), the film also features Charlotte Riley, Tom Holland, Ben Whishaw and Brendon Gleeson.

Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens

December 18

George Lucas’ Star Wars saga was supposed to be finished in 2005 when Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith was released, completing the prequel trilogy and tying the story back to the first film in the series. Then in 2012, Disney purchased Lucasfilm and announced a new trilogy of Star Wars films that would keep the epic story going on for years to come. The production of this newest installment lasted nearly six months. Most of it was shot at England’s Pinewood Studios, with location filming in the Abu Dhabi desert and on an Irish island. J.J. Abrams (Star Trek Into Darkness, Mission Impossible III) directed and co-wrote the screenplay with Lawrence Kasdan (The Empire Strikes Back). Twentieth Century-Fox is keeping major plot details under wraps, but here’s what is known: “Episode VII” will feature the forces of the First Order, an offshoot of the Galactic Empire, aligned against the Resistance, sprung from the Rebel Alliance. The story is original and set after Return of the Jedi. The film stars Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Peter Mayhew, Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker reprising their original roles. New actors to the series include John Boyega, Daisy Ridley and Adam Driver. The film will be presented in 3D and IMAX 3D where available.

The Hateful Eight

December 25

Set several years after the Civil War, The Hateful Eight begins with a stagecoach hurtling through the wintry Wyoming landscape. The passengers, bounty hunter John Ruth (Kurt Russell) and his fugitive prisoner Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh), race toward the town of Red Rock where Ruth, known in these parts as “The Hangman,” is transporting Domergue to face justice for murder. Along the way, they encounter two strangers: Major Marquis Warren (Samuel L. Jackson), a black former Union soldier turned bounty hunter, and Chris Mannix (Walton Goggins), a southern renegade who claims to be the town’s new sheriff. Lost in a blizzard, they all seek refuge at Minnie’s Haberdashery, a stagecoach stopover on a mountain pass. When they arrive, they are greeted not by the proprietor but by four unfamiliar faces: Bob (Demian Bichir), who’s taking care of Minnie’s while she is visiting her mother; Oswaldo Mobray (Tim Roth), the hangman of Red Rock; cow-puncher Joe Gage (Michael Madsen); and Confederate General Sanford Smithers (Bruce Dern). As the storm overtakes the mountainside stopover, the eight travelers come to realize that they may not make it to Red Rock after all. The film was written and directed by Quentin Tarantino (Pulp Fiction, Django Unchained).

Joy

December 25

This is the story of a family across four generations, centered on Joy, the girl who becomes the woman who invents the Miracle Mop. In this emotional and human comedy about becoming a true boss of family and enterprise in a world of female subservience, betrayal, treachery and the loss of innocence become side effects of attaining one’s capitalistic dream. Allies become adversaries and adversaries become allies, both inside and outside the family, as Joy’s inner life and fierce imagination carry her through the obstacles she faces. The story is based on the life and times of inventor/ entrepreneur Joy Mangano, creator of Ingenious Designs with over a billion dollars in sales, together with elements from the lives of other historic business pioneers. Jennifer Lawrence stars in the title role and is reunited with her Silver Linings Playbook co-stars Robert De Niro as Joy’s father and Bradley Cooper as an executive at the Home Shopping Network. Also starring are Edgar Ramirez, Isabella Rossellini, Diane Ladd and Virginia Madsen. David O. Russell directs.

Dennis Seuling is a resident of Maywood.

FRIENDS OF THE ARMENIAN HOME

The Friends of the Armenian Home held their annual fundraiser at Neiman Marcus in Paramus. For more information visit: www.thearmenianhome.org

Share the Spirit of Giving!

Help spread holiday cheer throughout the coming year for those in need. Join forces—and funds—with other like-minded individuals and organizations, such as the ones that follow, to make a positive difference towards enriching our Bergen County communities and all of those who call it home.

Center for Food Action of New Jersey

192 West Demarest Avenue

Englewood, NJ 07631

Contact: Jennifer Johnson

Phone: 201-569-1804

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 community resources. CFA helps clients find solutions to problems, achieve financial stability and create a brighter future.

New Concepts for Living

68A W. Passaic Street

Rochelle Park, NJ 07662

Contact: Rachel Shemesh, exec. director

Phone: 201-843-3427

Email: info@ncfl.net

Web: www.ncfl.net

Mission: New Concepts is a community nonprofit organization committed to people with 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.

Multiple Sclerosis Care Center

Holy Name Hospital

718 Teaneck Road

Teaneck, NJ 07666

Contact: Lisa Futterman

Phone: 201-837-0727

Web: holyname.org/mscenter

Mission: The Center is New Jersey’s only nonprofit licensed facility providing healthcare and related services to patients with MS regardless of their ability to pay.

Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County

690 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 300

Oradell, NJ 07649

Contact: Jacey Raimondo

Phone: 201-457-1020

Web: habitatbergen.org

Mission: Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County was established in 1994 as an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Our mission is to provide decent, affordable homes for hardworking Bergen County families.

CASA

Court Appointed Special Advocates

One Bergen County Plaza, Suite 440

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Contact: Amanda Simonton, amanda@bergencasa.org

Phone: 201-336-7520

Email: info@bergencasa.org

Web: www.bergencasa.org

Mission: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children of Bergen County is an independent, nonprofit organization of professionals and 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.

“Generosity consists not in the sum given, but the manner in which it is bestowed.”

Hope for Children Research Foundation

700D Lake Street

Ramsey, NJ 07446

Contact: Meg Minassian, exec. director

Phone: 201-962-8686

Web: www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org

Mission: The hope of the foundation is finding new treatments and cures for children with neurological diseases. We hope a doctor will never again have to say to a mom or dad, “take your child home; there’s nothing we can do.”

Pet ResQ, Inc.

24 West Railroad Avenue, Suite 172

Tenafly, NJ 07670

Contact: Robyn Urman

Phone: 201-450-5992

Web: www.petresqinc.org

Mission: We are a small group of volunteers who believe that all living creatures deserve a chance. We exist solely on donations and the efforts of volunteers and foster homes. We tend to rescue the elderly and handicapped pets that otherwise would not stand a chance at life.

Children’s Cardiomyopathy Foundation

P.O. Box 547

Tenafly, NJ 07670

Contact: Lisa Yue

Phone: 866-808-2873

Email: info@childrenscardiomyopathy.org

Web: www.childrenscardiomyopathy.org

Mission: The Children’s Cardiomyopathy Foundation is dedicated to finding the cause and cure for 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, New Jersey 07666

Contact: Elana Silber, director of operations

Phone: 866-474-2774 & 201-833-2341

Fax: 201-837-5025

Web: www.sharsheret.org

Mission: Sharsheret is a national not-for-profit organization supporting young Jewish women and their families facing breast cancer. Our mission is to offer a community of support to women, of all Jewish backgrounds, diagnosed with breast cancer or at increased genetic risk, by fostering culturally-relevant individualized connections with networks of peers, health professionals, and related resources.

“Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity and the responsibility to give something back by becoming more.”

—Anthony Robbins

Pony Power Therapies

1170 Ramapo Valley Road

Mahwah, NJ 07430

Contact: Dana Spett

Phone: 201-934-1001

Web: ponypowernj.org

Mission: Pony Power Therapies is a non-profit organization giving special needs and at-risk children and adults a unique opportunity to ride, care for and interact with horses. Our riding and non-riding activities enhance individuals’ physical, social and emotional well-being in a safe, nurturing farm environment.

200 Club of Bergen County

560 Hudson Street

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Contact: Andrea Betancourt

Phone: 201-229-0600

Email: info@200club.org

Web: www.200club.org

Mission: To benefit law enforcement, fire or emergency personnel who die or are seriously injured in the line of duty. Our motto is “serving our servants.”

Heightened Independence & Progress (hip)

131 Main Street, Suite 120

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Contact: Eileen Goff, president/CEO

Phone: 201-996-9100

Web: www.hipcil.org

Mission: hip is a non-profit agency, run by and for people with 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.

JDRF- Northern New Jersey and Rockland

County Chapter (Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund)

560 Sylvan Avenue, Suite 1210

Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632

Contact: Jim Roberts

Phone: 201-568-4838

Web: www.jdrf.org

Mission: To find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research while providing support for those living with Type 1 Diabetes and their families in our community.

Julia’s Butterfly Foundation

637 Wyckoff Avenue, Suite #285

Wyckoff, NJ 07481

Contact: Christine Callahan

Phone: 201-675-9961

Web: www.juliasbutterflyfoundation.org

Mission: Julia’s Butterfly Foundation is a volunteer, non-profit 501 (c)3 charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of terminally and chronically ill children and their families. The foundation honors the memory of six-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. We are humbled by the courage and dedication of the children and caregivers we support, and consider it a privilege to provide financial aid, physical assistance and services to those who need it most.

Tomorrows Children’s Fund

30 Prospect Avenue Hackensack, NJ 07601

Contact: Susan Garbe, sgarbe@tcfkid.org

Phone: 551-996-5504

Fax: 201-488-1444

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 like you, today, TCF provides a warm, healthy and loving environment for children in treatment; a full scope of services to relieve families’ emotional and financial stress and the very best possible medical care. All of which confirms TCF’s belief that through hope, hard work and heartfelt generosity, extraordinary things are possible.

bergenPAC (Performing Arts Center)

30 North Van Brunt Street

Englewood, NJ 07631

Contact: Dominic Roncace

Phone: 201-816-8160

Web: bergenpac.org

Mission: To make the live performing arts accessible, and to speak to the lives of its diverse community. It builds a creative home for artists of excellence and relevance, who entertain and enlighten, inspire and inform audiences.

Foundation for Autism Training and Education (FATE)

P.O. Box 1157

Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632

Contact: Sheilagh Cirillo

Phone: 201-541-9833

Web: www.thefate.org

Mission: FATE strives to help individuals with autism achieve their highest level of independence within their home, school and community.

West Bergen Mental Health

120 Chestnut Street

Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Contact: Carol Cohen

Phone: 201-444-3550

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 Street

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Contact: Lynne Algrant

Phone: 201-489-9454

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 Valley Hospital

223 North Van Dien Avenue

Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Contact: Anastasios Kozaitis

Phone: 201-291-6300

Web: valleyhospitalfoundation.org

Mission: The Valley Hospital serves the community by healing and caring for patients, comforting their families and teaching good health. The Valley Hospital is distinguished by a commitment to excellence in clinical care, innovation in programs and technology and a compassionate and respectful environment.

The Comedy Cures Foundation

122 E. Clinton Avenue

Tenafly, NJ 07670

Contact: Saranne Rothberg

Phone: 201-227-8410

Email: info@comedycures.org

Web: www.comedycures.org

Mission: The Comedy Cures Foundation is a national non-profit organization bringing joy, laughter and therapeutic humor programs to kids and grown-ups living with illness, depression, trauma and disabilities.

RBARI

2 Shelter Lane Oakland, NJ 07436

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. Our primary mission is to provide sanctuary while finding permanent, loving homes for the many animals that come to us (including feral, elderly, handicapped, and formerly abused animals). Animals in our care receive lots of love in addition to shelter, food, and medical care. RBARI adheres to a “nokill” policy, giving animals an open-ended stay at a warm, safe place until loving homes can be found.

Bergen County Economic Development Corp.

1 Bergen County Plaza, Suite #440

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Contact: Maggie Peters

Phone: 201-336-7500

Mission: BCEDC is a not-for-profit organization created to foster new business development and retain existing businesses within Bergen County.

YCS Foundation (Youth Consultation Services)

235 Main Street, 3rd Floor

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Contact: Richard Mingoia

Phone: 201-678-1312

Web: www.ycs.org

Mission: At YCS, our mission is to advocate for, 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 Street Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Contact: Kate Duggan, executive director

Phone: 201-833-8009, fax: 201-833-8011

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 self-sufficiency.

“Generosity is giving more than you can, and pride is taking less than you need.”

—Kahlil Gibran

North Jersey Friendship House

125 Atlantic Street

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Phone: 201-488-2121

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 this assistance voluntarily in a safe, comfortable environment.

Friendship House is a non-profit rehabilitation center offering comprehensive behavioral 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 (Verismo Opera)

P.O. Box 3024

Fort Lee, NJ 07024-9024

Contact: Mary Ellen Rohon

Phone: 201-886-0561

Web: www.njavo.org

Mission: New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera’s (Verismo Opera) mission is: 1. To enhance the cultural life of our community by providing a complete range of fine musical programming; 2. To educate the community about the uplifting benefits of music and, in particular, grand opera; 3. To educate and introduce our youth to the joy of fine music; and 4. To provide performance opportunities to musicians and offer study grants to young performing artists.

The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation

P.O. Box 1149

Ridgewood, NJ 07451

Contact: Linda Walder, executive director

Phone: 877-444-1149

Web: www.djfiddlefoundation.org

Mission: The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation is the first organization in the United States with the mission to provide grants to residential, recreational, vocational, educational and family programs for adolescents and adults with autism. Its expertise encompasses developing, identifying, supporting and supervising exemplary programs nationwide that honor the individuality of each person with autism.

Jewish Home Foundation of North Jersey

10 Link Drive

Rockleigh, NJ 07647

Contact: Melanie S. Cohen

Phone: 201-750-4231

Web: www.jewishhomefamily.org

Mission: The mission of the Jewish Home Foundation of North Jersey, Inc. (JHF) is to provide aid and support to the not-for-profit organizations of the Jewish Home Family; Jewish Home at Rockleigh, Jewish Home Assisted Living, Jewish Home at Home, and Jewish Home and Rehabilitation Center for the purposes of making available healthcare, educational, life enrichment, scientific or other charitable efforts for the seniors, the elderly and infirm in our community, without regard to the individuals’ ability to pay.

The American Cancer Society

Phone: 201-343-2222 or 800-ACS-2345

Web: www.cancer.org

Mission: The American Cancer Society is a nationwide community-based volunteer health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem, by prevention, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.

Alzheimers Association

400 Morris Avenue, Suite 251

Denville, NJ 07834

Phone: 201-261-6009

Web: alz.org/nj

Mission: The Greater New Jersey Chapter provides programs and services to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, their families and caregivers who live in the Bergen County and 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 Avenue

Maywood, NJ 07607

201-368-8585

Contact: Elissa Goldstein

Phone: 201-368-8585

Web: www.adleraphasiacenter.org

Mission: 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 from 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 selfconfidence, often lost as a result of their disability.

“You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.”

—John Bunyon

Center for Hope and Safety

12 Overlook Avenue, Suite A

Rochelle Park, NJ 07662

Contact: Jean Kirch

Phone: 201-498-9247, ext. 301

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, emotional support, as well as a diversified continuum of services focused on safety, empowerment and self-sufficiency.

The Office of Concern Food Pantry

55 West Demarest Avenue

Englewood, NJ 07631

Contact: George McKenna, GMcK1320@optonline.net

Phone: 201-568-1465

Email: officeofconcern@verizon.net

Web: www.officeofconcern.com

Mission: Serving “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, fresh fruits and vegetables, and dairy products. It is sponsored by St. Cecilia’s church in Englewood but the pantry is independent functionally and financially. It serves all regardless of religion, race or culture. They are open Monday through Thursday, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Each week they move 4.5 tons of food from their warehouse to their front office for distribution to 750 needy families. “We are staffed almost entirely by dedicated, unpaid volunteers. We operate through the generosity of foundations, businesses, churches, schools, community organizations, and i ndividuals. We are a 501 C 3 organization, so all contributions are tax-deductible,” notes spokesperson.

The Hermitage

335 North Franklin Turnpike Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423

Contact: Leslie Naghshineh

Phone: 201-445-8311

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.

Giants of Generosity, Inc.

201 Piermont Road, Suite #16

Cresskill, NJ 07626

Contact: D. Jane Chagaris Albanese

Phone: 201-567-2622

Web: www.giantsofgenerosity.org

Mission: Giants of Generosity’s mission is to quickly respond to the urgent needs of people in our own communities who are experiencing critical, life-altering situations. It does this by providing financial relief, connections to valuable resources, and service providers. Its goals are achieved with much greater impact by leveraging resources, expertise and relationships with other, like-minded organizations whenever possible. Giants of Generosity is fully funded by the generous donations of area residents and by corporate grants.

Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey

300 Forest Avenue

Paramus, NJ 07652

Contact: Lynn Apolinaro

Phone: 201-967-8100

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. GSCBC 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 shortterm activities, special interest groups, neighborhood activity centers or camping.

The Gregory M. Hirsch

Memorial Foundation, Inc. for Pediatric Heart Care & Research Center

Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital

Hackensack University Medical Center

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Contact: Fred Hirsch

Phone: 201-707-5933

Web: gmhhf.org

Mission: Its mission is to prevent sudden cardiac death in children and young adults by better understanding its causes, identifying at-risk individuals and families, and offering those families state-of-the-art treatment and support.

Advance Housing Incorporated

100 Hollister Road Teterboro, NJ 07608

Contact: Mary Rossettini

Phone: 201-498-9140

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, we will seek to make similar options and services available to other individuals who are in need of supportive housing. Our array of outreach services, designed to help people live independently and productively in the community, will exceed the highest standards of professional practice.

BOXING FOR FUN AND FITNESS

New boxing franchises are stepping away from the gritty, hard-nosed atmosphere of old-school boxing facilities and are creating environments that are welcoming for almost everyone. And, frankly, it’s about time.

Boxing’s Benefits

As a sport, boxing requires a high level of athletic prowess: strength, speed, agility, hand-eye coordination, endurance, nerve and power, just to name some. Boxing as a fitness activity enables the average person to develop those same athletic skills, all without having to take a punch. If you’re hoping to get in great shape and improve your health, you might want to join your local boxing gym. Here are 10 reasons why.

1. Enhanced cardiovascular health: Boxing can be a great fitness activity for individuals who want to perform a cardio workout, but are getting bored with more traditional aerobic activities such as running, cycling and aerobic classes. The whole point of cardio is to place a moderate amount of stress on your heart and lungs so they’re challenged enough to make beneficial physiologic adaptations to support the higher level of physical activity. But how you choose to place stress on your heart and lungs is up to you. As long

as you keep your heart rate up during your workout, there’s no reason you can’t punch, kick and jump your way to a healthy heart at your local boxing gym.

When you throw punches, a huge number of your body’s muscles are contracting at the same time. This makes your heart and lungs work overtime to pump blood-containing oxygen throughout your body. Boxing will test your cardiovascular system to the max, forcing your body to adapt by making your heart and lungs better at delivering oxygen. This means you can train at a higher intensity, giving an even greater fat burning effect.

2. Improved total-body strength: During a boxing workout, you may punch or kick a bag hundreds of times, requiring your upper body, lower body and core to engage as you make contact with the bag. Plus, most boxing gyms incorporate other strength training moves into a boxing workout. For example, many workouts include squats, pushups, planks, and weighted medicine ball exercises all within the context of a fast-paced 30-minute circuit workout.

3. Better hand-eye coordination: You may not think about the importance of hand-eye coordination and its effect on total health, but hand-eye coordination plays an important role in a person’s

gross and fine motor skills. Individuals with good hand-eye coordination tend to have faster reflexes and reaction times, and better physical coordination as a whole. This is particularly important as you age when coordination and balance tend to become compromised, increasing the risk of falls. Additionally, boxing can help hone handeye coordination. When you’re tasked with punching a speed bag or you’re paired to spar with a partner, you must be able to see, react to and hit the target, all while the target is moving and changing position.

4. Decreased stress: When you’re pushing yourself through a couple of minutes of high-intensity punching or kicking, you don’t have much mental power left to worry about how awful your job is or how dirty your house is. And even during rest periods, you’ll be focused on sucking wind and mentally preparing for the next round, not stressing over your packed schedule. There

is an incredibly cathartic release when you get to take some of your stress out on a punching bag. It’s an empowering feeling to punch your stress to smithereens.

5. Improved body composition: Boxing is great for improving body composition, and some might say it’s great for weight loss. Ultimately, if you want to lose weight, what you really want to do is improve your body composition—to increase your muscle mass and decrease your fat mass.

Boxing can easily burn as much as 500 calories per 30-minute session. Boxing, however, has an additional benefit thanks to the fact that it is high intensity training. When performing high intensity training, you not only burn calories during the session, but for hours after the training session has ended. Typical cardio activities do not have this post training calorie burning effect. Hence, boxing is your best friend when it comes to losing weight.

Boxing is an incredible mechanism for improved body composition because it perfectly combines muscle-building strength training moves and calorie-torching bouts of cardio. By regularly participating in a boxing program and following a nutritious eating plan, you’ll likely see changes in your shape and improvements to your fat mass percentage.

6. Improved core stability: Anything that causes your body to become unstable requires your core muscles to work harder to keep you balanced. Boxing requires lots of fast rotational movements and these core muscles will develop to allow you to punch hard without losing your balance.

7. Build strong bones and ligaments: Resistance training strengthens your bones and reduces the progression of osteoporosis. In boxing, focus pads and punching bags provide resistance, as does your own

Sports Dr.

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body weight, when you perform pushups, pullups, lunges, burpees and various other exercises. Your joints, tendons and ligaments will also get stronger when working against resistance.

Using your body weight can also help you maintain or increase your lean muscle mass, which is critical to keeping your metabolic rate burning at maximum capacity.

8. Improved strength and power: Punching is a fast repetitive action that produces toned taut muscles, in contrast to the slow, controlled, very heavy movements involved in body-building or weight lifting, which produce size or bulk. Boxing is the ultimate full body workout. Correctly thrown punches use your legs, hips, glutes, core, obliques, back, shoulders, chest and arms. Punching against resistance causes all of these muscles to contract with more force and speed, further developing your body strength.

9. Confidence: Contrary to popular belief, boxers typically do not seek confrontation. Their skills and confidence convey an inner belief that they have nothing to prove. However, if boxers need to protect themselves in a self-defense situation, they will be more adept at finishing things quickly and cleanly. When people feel secure about their ability to defend themselves physically, this often translates to a psychological benefit of self-contentment and peace of mind.

10. Makes you super-fit: To get the most out of your body, you need to work it the right way through a variety of different forms of exercise and by keeping your heart rate at the right level. For overall fitness, you need to get your head around both aerobic and anaerobic exercise present in boxing. Boxing is estimated to be 70-80% anaerobic and 20-30% aerobic. A boxing workout helps maintain the heart rate at 75%-85% of the maximum heart rate, which is the

recommended range if you are exercising. This means that aerobic exercise is low energy exercise that can be done for extended periods of time (think yoga, swimming and running). Since aerobic exercise is relatively gentle, your body is able to maintain a reasonable amount of oxygen, which is then carried to your muscles to use as energizing fuel. This type of exercise is good for burning fat and improving cardiovascular health. Anaerobic exercise, any short, intense exercise, uses up oxygen fast. This means lactic acid is produced and your body will not be able to sustain its energy levels for long. This type of exercise increases your endurance, muscle mass and metabolism.

Getting Started

Boxing is a jarring, contact-heavy workout, and there are important reasons why you shouldn’t just hang up your bag and start flailing. The human body isn’t designed for repeatedly generating and accepting the

kinds of forces that can be generated in any intense workout; a good boxing coach can help you develop the technical proficiency you need to reduce your risk of injury. He/ she will also prevent you from reinforcing incorrect habits. The more bad punches you throw, the deeper your poor technique becomes ingrained and the harder it’s going to be for you to unlearn.

A common goal is to work your way up to a simulated regulation boxing match: 12 rounds of three minutes a piece, with one minute of rest between rounds.

There are basically two types of boxing training: training that focuses on teaching boxers to compete in the ring, and training that focuses on helping “everyday athletes” get in better shape. The basic difference between the two forms of training is that athletes who want to learn how to compete in boxing must learn to land and take punches with human opponents. They have to learn to hit and be hit by a competitor. Gyms that teach boxers to compete typically have boxing rings in their facilities and offer opportunities for boxers to fight one another.

If you have no interest in taking a punch, you’ll want to look for facilities that offer classes and programs outside of the ring. The basic skills are the same—you learn to jab, uppercut and hook; you work on footwork and speed, core strength and agility, and power and flexibility. In some cases, depending on the facility, you’ll also learn MMA-style kicking sequences.

With today’s fitness-friendly boxing clubs, just about anyone can walk in and get started, regardless of baseline fitness. Given that most boxing classes focus on bodyweight exercises, you can go at your own pace and ramp up the intensity as you see fit. The facility you attend should be welcoming, classes should be held by certified trainers (preferably with a certification or experience specifically in boxing), and the facility should be clean and well maintained.

Dr. Michael Gross, the founder and director of Active Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, is the section chief of sports medicine and the orthopedic director of the Center for Sports Medicine at Hackensack University Medical Center, as well as medical director of Active Center for Health and Wellness.

Bentley Mulsanne Speed:

How Sporty Does Nearly Three Tons Get?

If you’re truly looking for the best when it comes to automobiles, there honestly aren’t too many options. Then again, it also depends on how you define those two words.

To me, a vehicle is truly at the top of its class when it stands on its own, offers something that cannot be found elsewhere and has a certain appeal to it that cannot be replicated. If you define a vehicle’s greatness by numbers, and geek out over tenths of a second and millimeters of a difference, then you’re missing the point. Then everyone would have a Bugatti Veyron.

But if you’re looking for exclusivity, timeless design, the ultimate in luxury with a dash of sportiness, there’s really only one marque that will quench your thirst. That, my friends, would be Bentley.

Having driven plenty of the company’s “starter” vehicles, like the Continental GT and Flying Spur, I had not come across one of the flagship models. That is until recently. Dubbed the Mulsanne—after the straight at the world famous Le Mans racetrack—it won’t be found littering every corner of Manhattan. If you snap up a Mulsanne, you’re telling the world that you’re a discerning buyer.

Our subject for this test was actually the Mulsanne Speed, though. This is the more sporting variant that’s a bit more pumped up. Equipped with a 21-inch wheel and tire package, darkened front grilles, an adjustable suspension and a revised interior, it’s as sporty as nearly 6,000 pounds can get. My test car was painted an intriguing shade called Spectre. Depending on the lighting conditions, it can look black, brown or gold. A proper, classy color for this automobile.

Observing its exterior there’s no questioning what this vehicle is when it rolls down your local avenue. It’s massive, adorned with a sizable grille on the front, has a set of bejeweled-looking headlights, and in my case, equipped with a flying “B” on its mast. To say it commands presence

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Continued from pg. 148 Auto is an understatement.

Slipping inside the cockpit is like entering another world. The seats are cushy and, unlike a lot of other luxury vehicles, feature minimal adjustments. If you were looking for 30-way seats, you won’t find them here but you don’t need them. They’re comfortable as is. My particular test car had a twotone beige and black specification with a diamond-patterned stitch on the seating surfaces. Easy on the eyes, indeed. Trimming on the inside was a mixture of piano black, shiny metal and bits of carbon fiber.

Also, unlike many of today’s more modern rides, the center stack and console are riddled with buttons to control various functions within the vehicle. If you were hoping for a fully integrated infotainment system, you will find that Bentley leverages Audi’s MMI system. This provides you with all of the typical functions one would expect in a luxury vehicle—navigation, radio, media, various vehicle settings, etc. It’s not the easiest system to get accustomed to, and it is a tad confusing, but after two to three weeks, I reckon you’ll get the hang of it.

Although Bentleys tend to be built for drivers, in the Mulsanne you’ll likely want to be giving orders from the back. That’s because it’s comfortable with a capital “C.” It also doesn’t hurt that the tester I was provided with came equipped with a very trick entertainment system. This nearly $30,000 investment provides back seat passengers with not one, but two integrated iPads that are positioned in the front seatbacks as picnic tables. You hit one button and you’re presented with a picnic table. You hit the second button and you have the sexiest Apple product integration ever. The keyboard is a nice touch because, really, only plebeians use the screen to type.

Just hazarding a guess here, but something tells me that the famed Apple Chief Design Officer, Jonny Ive, may have had something to do with this. After all, he’s chosen to be chauffeured in a Mulsanne.

This speaks to the special quality of the Mulsanne Speed. While all of the other Bentley products I’ve driven have made me want to drive them, the Mulsanne is best enjoyed as a passenger. As like the other Bentleys, it’s an especially heavy vehicle, but unlike the other Bentleys, the Mulsanne offers a vastly different ride. It is very isolated, quiet and shockingly smooth. Hit a bump? You likely won’t know it unless you heard it. To me, the Mulsanne has the same ride quality as the RollsRoyce Phantom, which provides the best suspension tuning of anything I’ve ever driven.

Cliché, but true, it feels like you’re riding on a floating carpet.

If you insist on piloting the Mulsanne Speed, here’s what to expect. It is an extremely heavy vehicle. This is reinforced through the Speed’s steering rack, as it can be tough to deal with in certain environments. A narrow-aisled parking lot is not your friend. While it features nicely weighted steering, it isn’t particularly direct and its turning radius is on par with a

boat. Put it into Sport mode and the steering feel gets heavier. This is fine for highway travel, but not best enjoyed around town.

Power is more than adequate. Equipped with a 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 mill, the Mulsanne Speed produces 530 horsepower and 811 lb.-ft. of torque. To put that torque figure in perspective, it’s second to one of the world’s most powerful autos, the Bugatti Veyron. Although it may weigh nearly three tons, this car has some giddy up. Zero to 60 happens in 4.7 seconds. That’s fast when you’re hurtling past other cars in what is essentially a living room with four wheels.

Helping get this power to the ground is a seven-speed automatic transmission. You actually won’t know that because its shifts are essentially unnoticeable unless you’re driving and are a dictator who needs to control the gear changes via the paddles. Speaking of the paddles, the fact that they’re metal is a nice touch. However, in my test car, they annoyingly rattled and made a metallic clink unless I rested my hands on them to shush them.

After spending some time with the Mulsanne Speed, I have to admit, it’s a rather interesting product. There’s nothing built quite like it. It’s not ashamed of its heft and it will move with haste should you wish. Is it sporty? Well, no. If you put the Mulsanne Speed through some twisty roads it will get the job done but it won’t be pretty.

For me, the Speed is the ultra luxury sedan to have if you value exclusivity, want some attitude in the vehicle’s design and desire ride quality that can only be rivaled by the Rolls-Royce Phantom. But here’s the catch: While the Roller also does a great job of keeping its passengers comfortable, it is not the most confidence inspiring when you’re traveling at speed. The Bentley, on the other hand, can do both without any issues.

And that’s why if I had to make a one percenter’s decision, I’d be putting a flying “B” in my multi-car garage.

PeaceOut

La Paz is a destination town, complete with a university, flying fish, a five-star resort, and a nod toward sustainability.

La Paz, which may be the most peaceful city in Mexico (“paz” means peace), is certainly one of the most pleasant. La Paz hit the karmic jackpot in terms of weather and location, and values these gifts so much that a significant amount of planning and pesos have been dedicated to social consciousness. It’s no surprise then when you pass through its state-of-the art marina and absorb the contrasting visuals of Steve Job’s Phillip Stark-designed yacht and a plethora of jumping fish, which are safe to eat.

One of the reasons these jumping fish are so fresh is that many industries are highly regulated here. Seafood is hard line caught in La Paz under sustainable practice guidelines. The prawns, lobsters and oysters are caught on the Pacific side, while fish and clams are harvested from the Sea of Cortez. This makes for happy tourists who either fish for their meals, or dine under the stars at reasonably priced fine dining restaurants on freshly caught seafood. Mangroves are heavily regulated, and locals pride themselves on a respect for Mother Nature.

Ocean Life

Located at the mouth of the Sea of Cortez, La Paz is home to a wild array of aquatic life. A good place to take that in is on a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Isla de Espirito Santo. On our journey to swim with the sharks (whale sharks that is, the ocean’s largest mammals who fortunately feed on plankton and not people), we passed a school of manta rays skimming like stones across the water, answered the call of the whiskered sea lions and snorkeled in their island home, all before our driver dropped us off on one of the tiny island coves for a picnic lunch and lazy afternoon. This way of seeing unspoiled land and water, via boat, with friends and beer, and every shade of cerulean blue as far as the eye can see, is nothing short of spectacular. We passed so many deserted beaches, each one seemingly more beautiful than the last.

Downtown Buzz

Home to one of the largest universities in Mexico, La Paz maintains its local feel with an authenticity that more populated resorts lack. Downtown La Paz has a lot to offer besides white sand beaches and fish tacos. Start with a leisurely stroll along the Malecon. We were pleasantly surprised to find a lone violin player in the center of town (in Plaza del la Constitución) regaling us with classical tunes in the midday heat. The Our Lady of Peace Cathedral in the center of town dates from 1720 and is a lovely rest stop away from the sun’s glare.

CostaBaja Resort and Spa

Sure the azure seas beckon and a plethora of activities entice, but it’s equally joyous to do nothing at all. There is no better spot to be a lounge lizard than the 550-acre retreat of CostaBaja, La

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Traveler’s Tip:

CostaBaja is a lovely place to get married with many fantastic photo opportunities and fabulous food options. The sales manager at CostaBaja mentioned that, as a sweet surprise, the resort upgrades all honeymoon guests, subject to availability, whenever possible at no charge. Visit www.vivalapaz.com and www.costabaja.com for more info.

Continued from pg. 153

Paz’s only five-star resort. This jewel of a resort is home to internationally owned residences, a highly rated Gary Player designed par 72 golf courses (chock full of dramatic Sea of Cortez vistas), a Scott Lee constructed clubhouse, the Espiritu Spa, and several delicious restaurants. My room with a view had a large 42-inch television and a small balcony that overlooked the colorful marina. I read an entire book by the little palm tree-lined pool and watched the sun set, while a breeze wafted through the palm fronds and cooled the flames of an otherwise hot day. At night, we wandered through the boats slips in the marina after dinner, taking in the sights, lights and cool breezes.

On the dawn of a new day, a short walk

over to the beach club was a nice diversion for the kayaks, bar and festive atmosphere. Chaise lounges were set up in the shallow water and the temperature was perfect for a soak and a swim. Even if you don’t golf, you must venture up to the Clubhouse, if only for the views of the water, the marina and a meal. The course, as visually pleasing as it is practical, was planted with Paspalum grass, often called seashore grass, for its unique ability to be irrigated with seawater in the event of a drought.

One morning, the men in our party took in the awe-inspiring course (with multiple starter tees geared for all levels of play) while the women took in the spa. Locally inspired treatments, relaxing scents, body products and a steam room were enough to

transport five women to a blissful state of pampered relaxation. One of our friends refused to wash the oil out of her hair from her Ayurvedic treatment because it smelled so wonderful. When we mocked her at dinner, she told us we should “respect the spa”.

Without doubt, La Paz is a rejuvenating destination with a lot to offer everyone, whether they are couples, families or groups of friends. Memories of lazy days lounging linger in my mind’s eye. As you head to the airport, you will be thinking that CostaBaja must truly be Baja’s most tranquil resort in its most peaceful city. And please don’t forget to respect the spa!

Suzette Lipscomb is a freelance writer; this is her first piece for BC THE MAG.

HABITAT BERGEN’S GOLF TOURNAMENT

Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County held their annual Invitational Golf Tournament at Knickerbocker Country Club. For more information visit: www.habitatbergen.org

BC Eats

In collaboration with local foodie website Boozy Burbs , BC Eats will spotlight all that’s new and exciting on the local restaurant scene.

Tori Ramen Chicken

40 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood 201-857-0908

Tori Ramen Chicken, a ramen restaurant, has replaced Muscle Maker Grill and opened in Ridgewood. The restaurant specializes in ramen with no less than 15 options—with meats, vegetables and tofu—plus fried chicken available three different ways.

Don’t let the simplicity of the menu fool you. If you’re a lover of ramen, then be sure to visit. The restaurant is open 7 days a week for both lunch and dinner.

Kinara

10 Jay Street, Tenafly 201-399-7788 // kinararestaurant.com

Kinara, the popular Indian restaurant in Edgewater, has opened a second location, replacing Cafe Savoy on Jay Street. The restaurant features the same menu as its Edgewater sibling, which includes a daily all-you-can-eat lunch buffet from 12PM-3PM featuring 10 or more of Kinara’s specialty dishes.

If dinner is more your scene, then the menu is more than adequate, with a seemingly unlimited amount of options to choose from, including many tandoori dishes, chicken dishes, lamb dishes, seafood and even Indian Chinese (an adaptation of Indian spices in Chinese food).

The restaurant is open 7 days a week for both lunch and dinner.

Romulus

21 East Palisade Avenue, Englewood

201-408-2639 // romulusrestaurant.com

As expected, the team from The Kitchen in Englewood has reopened the restaurant as Romulus, an eatery serving Roman cuisine. The space has been updated with new décor, and the new restaurant will focus on Roman (basically Italian) fare, which executive chef Wade New has been working on for quite some time.

The pastas are homemade and all the sauces are prepared fresh daily. The Fettuccine Bascaiola and the Spaghetti Limone are traditional Roman dishes, and for those who prefer an entrée other than pasta, the pork rib chop and Branzino are must tries.

Romulus will also have a brunch menu, which offers a Roman take on traditional favorites, such as the Eggs Julius: eggs over easy and pancetta on baked polenta with hollandaise. Pasta dishes will also feature prominently in the brunch menu.

Romulus is open 6 days (Tuesday-Sunday), with lunch service from 12PM-3PM Tuesday thru Friday, dinner service Tuesday thru Thursday from 5PM-9PM, dinner service Friday and Saturday from 5PM-10PM and brunch service only Sundays from 11AM-3PM.

Lucky’s Steak Plate

1218 Main Avenue, Clifton 973-546-1999 // luckyssteakplate.com

Lucky’s Steak Plate of Fair Lawn has opened its second location (the first is in Fair Lawn). The restaurant features a retro style design reminiscent of a 1950s joint, with counter seats, oversized dark wood tables and chairs, black ceilings, corrugated metal walls, red neon signs, TVs and a ‘50s playlist, bringing you back to a simpler time.

Lucky’s serves a menu that includes custom-blended signature beef from Pat LaFrieda; all items are cooked to order. Burgers can be customized or diners can choose one of the specialty burgers, such as the “Ham Burger,” which comes complete with boiled ham, mozzarella, pickles and Lucky’s house sauce. The restaurant is also known for its baby back ribs, certified Black Angus steaks, flame grilled chicken, wings and hot dogs. The chili is made in-house and they use freshly sliced (thin) rib eye for their cheese steaks. Lucky’s menu is essentially perfect for football Sundays. Breakfast is also served daily and features unique items such as the Philly steak breakfast hero. Lucky’s is open 7 days a week from 11AM to 9PM (and 10PM on Fridays and Saturdays).

MOOYAH Burgers

216 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan

201-497-8070 // mooyah.com

“Better burger” chain Mooyah has opened its first Bergen County location in the former McDonalds spot at Bi-State Plaza in Old Tappan. Recently, Mooyah has made a push to expand all over the country, including nearby in Westchester with Briarcliff Manor and Larchmont, NY, locations coming soon.

Mooyah crafts burgers from fresh, never-frozen beef, as well as offers turkey and veggie (black bean) options. Mooyah interestingly bakes its buns (white or whole wheat) right on the premises. The chain also offers 20 free veggie and sauce toppings, and cheese, bacon or avocado can be added for a fee. French fries are made fresh and sweet potato fries are also available.

While some burger chains are trying to make their burgers fancy, Mooyah focuses on quality and simplicity. Mooyah is open 7 days a week for both lunch and dinner.

Midland Brew House

374 North Midland Avenue, Saddle Brook 201-797-0070 // midlandbrewhouse.com

Midland Brew House, a new restaurant and bar in Saddle Brook, is serving up “American fusion” featuring pub fare, a raw bar, plus a wide range of craft beers and spirits.

Saddle Brook native Mike Vargas and his siblings are behind Midland Brew House, with chef Jeremiah Echeandia in tow. The New American Fusion menu has quite a few options. There are coal oven pizzas, steaks (including some grass-fed beef from Cedar River Farms) and seafood. The bar will offer 40+ beers on tap—with many local breweries—plus a mixology-inspired cocktail menu.

The two-floor space acts as an upscale sports lounge with 60 TVs (plus a 109-inch projection screen) with a stage for live music. The upstairs will handle overflow for dinner and on weekends be more of a lounge space. The over 10,000-square-foot space will be open 7 days a week for both lunch and dinner.

Boozy Burbs is a website dedicated to food and drink in the Greater Bergen County area. Coverage includes restaurant openings & closings, eating & drinking events and everything else related to the local foodie scene. www.boozyburbs.com

ANDIAMO BENEFIT MOTORCYCLE RUN

Andiamo Restaurant in Haworth hosted their annual motorcycle run to benefit several charities. For more information visit: www.andiamorun.com

BOTTAGRA RESTAURANT

Restaurant Guide

If you’re hungry or planning a special night out, this is the place to find the answer to that appetite. From steak, chops and seafood to almost any ethnic fare, it’s all here.

American (Contemporary & Traditional)

The Abbey

Ramsey Golf and Country Club

105 Lakeside Drive, 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

Bacari Grill

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

The Barn

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

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

Blind Boar Barbeque

595 Broadway, Norwood, 201-784-6900

Bonefish Grill

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

Boom Burger

375 W. Passaic St., Rochelle Park, 201-843-2666

The Bouwerie 83 Dewolf Road, Old Tappan, 201-564-7939

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

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

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

Café Amici of Wyckoff 315 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-848-0198

Café Angelique 1 Piermont Road, Tenafly, 201-541-1010

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

Chakra

144 West State Route 4, Paramus, 201-566-1530

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

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

Lunch Mon - Sat: 11:30am - 3:00pm Dinner Mon - Thurs: 4:30pm - 10:00pm Fri - Sat: 4:30pm - 11:00pm Sun: 3:00pm - 10:00pm

Davey’s Irish Pub & Restaurant 5 Park St., Montvale, 201-391-9356

East Coast Burger 75 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-857-0227

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

Fire and Oak 100 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-307-1100

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

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

Grand Cru 36 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, 201-568-3939

Griffin’s 44 E. Madison Ave., Cresskill, 201-541-7575

Grosso’s La Strada

231 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-670-9233

Harvest Bistro

252 Schraalenburgh Rd., Closter, 201-750-9966

Haven Riverfront Restaurant & Bar

2 Main St., Edgewater, 201-943-1900

Ho-Ho-Kus Inn and Tavern

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

Houston’s

The Shops at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-488-5667

Iron Horse

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

Ivy Inn

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

Jackson Hole

362 Grand Ave., Englewood, 201-871-7444

Just Janice

23 Sheridan Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-445-2666

Jersey Boys Grill

704 River Road, New Milford, 201-262-5600

Joe’s American Bar & Grill

Garden State Plaza (Rtes. 17 & 4), Paramus, 201-843-8858

The Kitchen

21 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-568-4570

The Kosher Nosh Deli

894 Prospect St., Glen Rock, 201-445-1186

Lakeside Grille & Bar

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

Local Seasonal Kitchen

41 W. Main St., Ramsey, 201-962-9400

Mahwah Bar & Grill

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

Mason Jar

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

MK Valencia

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

Nellie’s Place

9 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, 201-652-8626

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 Inn Hotel, Tenafly, 201-567-4800

Park Bistro

700 Palisadium Drive, Cliffside Park, 201-366-4047

Park Wood Delicatessen

342 Erie Ave., Midland Park, 201-689-08550

Pearl Restaurant

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

Our menus include Soups, Salads, rich savory Tapas, Mariscadas, Caldo Gallego, various Charcuterie & Cheeses to share with friends and family, and a variety of Entrees including Chicken dishes, Churrasco Steak, Seafood, and Several Paellas including Lobster Paella (Friday & Saturday).

Restaurant Guide

from pg. 163

The Plum and The Pear

393 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-485-8793

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

Raymond’s 101 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-5125

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

Rosario’s Trattoria 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, 201-375-4949

Session Bistro

245 Maywood Ave., Maywood, 201-880-7810

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

Smith Brothers 51 N. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201-444-8111

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

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

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

Twisted Elm

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

Vale Bar & Grill

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

Veggie Heaven 473 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, 201-836-0887

Victoria’s

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

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

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

Chinese/Korean Don 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

Golden Pond 147 N. Kinderkamack Rd., Montvale, 201-930-8811

Look See 259 N. Franklin Tpke. (Rt. 17S), Ramsey, 201-327-1515

Mr. Wok & Sushi 1 Highwood Ave., Tenafly, 201-569-3969

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

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

Call to make your reservations for Thanksgiving Day Book your Holiday event today

Dinner will be served from 1pm-6:30pm Our buffet will have 3 separate seatings

Make your reservations for Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve Closed Christmas Day *now on Open New Year’s Day at 4pm

Purchase gift cards online for the holidays! Mon-Thurs - 11:30am to 10pm Fri - 11:30am to 11pm Sat - 4:30pm to 11pm Sun - 1pm to 9pm Sunday Brunch 11am to 3pm Chef Zorko Zoran Glavan

Rudy’s

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

Continental/American

The Elm Street Grill

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

Continental/ French

Café Panache (BYOB)

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

Latour

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

2 Barnstable Ct., Saddle River, 201-825-4016

Continental/ Italian

Andrea’s (BYOB)

26 E. Prospect St., Waldwick, 201-670-0275/201-670-7958

Davia

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

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

Savini

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

Villa Amalfi

793 Palisades Ave. (Marion Ave.), Cliffside Park, 201-886-8626

Cuban Mambo Tea House

98 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-933-1262

Rebecca’s Restaurant

236 Old River Rd., Edgewater, 201-943-8808

Eclectic Contemporary

Bibi’z Restaurant and Lounge

284 Center Ave., Westwood, 201-722-8600

Baumgart’s Café

59 The Promenade, Edgewater, 201-313-3889

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

158 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-612-5688

Café Matisse (BYO)

167 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-935-2995

The Dog and Cask

55 Route 17 South, Rochelle Park, 201-845-5101

GW Grill

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

Natalie’s 16-18 South Broad St., Ridgewood,201-444-7887

Park & Orchard

240 Hackensack St. (Union Ave.), East Rutherford, 201-939-9292

Port of Call (POC)

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

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

200 Tice (Inside The Woodcliff Lake Hilton) 200 Tice Blvd., Woodcliff Lake, 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 Latour 6 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-5056

German

Kirker’s Inn

237 Diamond Bridge Ave., Hawthorne, 973-427-7700

Greek

After Athens 17 Park Ave., Rutherford, 201-729-1980

Continued on pg. 166

Continued from pg. 165

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

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

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 North Spruce St., Ramsey, 201-995-9333

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

Brick Lane Curry House 34 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-670-7311

Mantra 275 Route 4 West, Paramus, 201-342-8868

Mela Authentic Indian Cuisine 47 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-6060

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

Italian

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

Aldo’s (BYO) 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. (Knickerbocker Rd.), 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 38 Harrison Ave., Garfield, 973-778-4930

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

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

Bella Campania 456 Broadway, Hillsdale 201-666-7700

Bella Italia (BYO) 170 Main St., Ridgefield Park, 201-440-2150

Bella Notte 14 Oak St., 29 W. Ridgewood Ave., 201-444-5520

Rest. Guide

Bellissimo

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

Bottagra Restaurant

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

Buon Gusto

534 Durie Ave., Closter, 201-784-9036

Buongiorno’s (BYOB)

86 Washington Ave., Dumont, 201-501-8000

Café Amici

4 Sycamore Ave., Ho-Ho-Kus, 201-389-6377

Caffe Anello

425 Broadway Ave., Westwood, 201-497-3628

Café Capri

343 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-664-6422

Caffe Capri

119 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201-460-1039

Café Italiano Ristorante

14 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-461-5041

Café LíAmore

455 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, 201-337-5558

Café Tivoli

533 Shaler Blvd., Ridgefield, 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. (Schraalenburgh Rd.), Harrington Park, 201-767-4245

Dolce Novita

107 Moonachie Rd. (Rtes. 3 & 46), Moonachie, 201-440-3339

Due

18 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-857-3232

Fiona’s Restaurant

118 Godwin Ave., Midland Park, 201-857-5800

Fontana Di Trevi

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 Cafe

19 East Main St., Ramsey, 201-825-5835

GoodFellas

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

Granita Grill

467 Broadway, Westwood, 201-664-9846

Fresh Fish. Flown in Daily.

Restaurant Guide

Continued from pg. 167

Grissini Restaurant

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

Guilios

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

Il Giardino (BYO)

153 Paris Ave , Northvale 201-750-0060

Il Mulino Ristorante

132 Veterans Plaza, Dumont, 201-384-7767

Il Portico

89 Main Street, Tappan, NY, 845-365-2100

Il Villaggio

651 Rt. 17N (between Rtes. 3 & 46), Carlstadt, 201-9357733

In Napoli

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

Kinchley’s Tavern

586 N. Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, 201-934-7777

La Cambusa

517 River Drive, Garfield, 973-445-7222

La Lanterna

29 W. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-444-5520

La Piazza

29 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-447-5111

La Vecchia Napoli

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

Locale Café

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

Luka’s (BYOB)

2310 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. (behind Garden State Plaza), Rochelle Park, 201-843-1250

Osso Buco

343 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-664-1600

Pasta E Pollo

13 Godwin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-445-8410

Portobello

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

Puzo’s Family Restaurant 4 Garfield Ave., Hawthorne, 973-423-2288

Rocca

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

Roxanne’s 150 Franklin Turnpike, Mahwah, 201-529-0007

Sanducci’s Trattoria (BYO) 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 2 Mercer St., Lodi, 973-778-4545

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

Solaia 22 N. Van Brunt St. Englewood, 201-871-7155

Solari’s 61 River St., Hackensack, 201-487-1969

Sorrento (BYO) 132 Park Ave. (Paterson Ave.), East Rutherford, 201-507-0093

Trovato’s Due 4 Barbara Lane, 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

Italian/French

The Chef’s Table

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

Japanese Akai Lounge

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

Bushido Bar and Restaurant

671 Palisade Ave., Cliffside Park, 201-941-6600

Cocoro

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

Daruma

45 N. Dean St., Englewood, 201-567-9600

Gen Sushi

14B Chestnut Ridge Rd., Montvale, 201-930-9188

15 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-493-1988

Hanami (BYO)

41 Union Ave, Cresskill, 201-567-8508

301 Center Ave, Westwood, 201-666-8508

Hiro

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

Kiku

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

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

Kumo

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

Masa Sushi & Grill

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

Matsu Sushi & Grill

140 Broadway, Hillsdale, 201-930-1896

Matsuya

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

Mei Sushi Japanese Restaurant

14-20 Plaza Road, Fair Lawn- 201-398-9882

Minado

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

Mount Fuji Japanese Steak House

193 Route 17, Hasbrouck Heights, 201-288-2800

Sarku Japan

Bergen Town Center, Rt. 4W, Paramus, 201-880-6551

Sakura-Bana

43 Franklin Ave., Ridgewood, 201-447-6525

Sushi Cruise

725 River Road, Edgewater, 201-313-3611

Tani Sushi & Asian Grill

206 Rock Road, Glen Rock, 201-612-1188

44 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-567-7888

Tawara

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

Umeya

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

Wild Ginger

31 Chestnut St., Ridgewood, 201-857-3830

Yamagata

1636 Palisadeís Ave., Fort Lee, 201-585-0469

Continued on pg. 170

With over twenty years of teaching golf professionally, Patrick Fallon, Director of Instruction at Edgewater Golf and creator of Fallon Golf School, will assist you in reaching your

November 2 0, 2015 7 – 11 PM

Indian Trail Club

830 Franklin Lake Road

Franklin Lakes, NJ

Continued from pg. 169

Korean

Dong Bang Grill 1616 Palisade Ave., Fort Lee, 201-242-4485/4486

Picnic Garden 150 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, 201-816-9300

Zen Zen

356 Bergen Blvd., Farview, 201-840-1820

Mediterranean

Europe Café & Grill

1 Highwood Ave., Tenafly, 201-569-4444

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

Novo

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

Orama 595 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-945-2020

Samdan

178 Piermont Road, Cresskill- 201-816-7343

Zendiggi Kebab House

228 Closter Dock Road, Closter, 201-768-0644

Mexican Badlands Tacos

102 E. Main St., Ramsey, 201-818-2446

Blue Moon Mexican Café

23 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-541-0600

42 Kinderkamack Rd., Woodcliff Lake, 201-782-9500

327 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, 201-891-1331

Cinco de Mayo 2428 Lemoine Ave., Fort Lee, 201-947-4780

Fiesta Hut

227 Park Ave., East Rutherford, 201-939-4338

Las Maravillas De Tulcingo 3 84 Palisade Ave., Englewood, 201-568-1980

Mexicali Live 1409 Queen Anne Road, Teaneck, 201-833-0011

Rosa Mexicano

The Shops at Riverside, Rt. 4W, Hackensack, 201-489-9100

Tito’s Burritos 166 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, 201-857-4619

Polish

Royal Warsaw Restaurant 871 River Drive, Elmwood Park, 201-794-9277

Seafood

Biggie’s Clam Bar 430 Route 17 South- Carlstadt, 201-933-4000 1315 Rt. 17 South, Ramsey, 201-962-9099

Boiling Pot

124 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Fort Lee, 201-461-0444

Legal Sea Foods Garden State Plaza, Paramus, 201 843-8483

Oceaniare Seafood Room 175 Riverside Square Mall, Hackensack, 201-343-8862

The Crab House 541 River Rd., Edgewater, 201-840-9311

Seafood Gourmet 103 W. Pleasant Ave., Maywood, 201-843-8558

Rest. Guide

Spanish

El Cid

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

Meson Madrid

343 Bergen Blvd. (Central Blvd.), Palisades Park, 201-947-1038

Segovia 150 Moonachie Rd., Moonachie, 201-641-4266

Steak Houses

Capital Grille

Garden State Plaza (Rtes. 17 & 4), Paramus, 201-845-7040

Charlie Brown’s Fresh Grill

203 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan, 201-767-6106 2 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell, 201-265-0403 95 Linwood Ave., Washington Township, 201-666-3080

CK’s Steak House

801 Rutherford Ave., (Renaissance Meadowlands Hotel), Rutherford, 201-231-3141

ETC. Steakhouse (Kosher) 1409 Palisade Ave., Teaneck, 201-357-5677

Flemings Steakhouse

90 The Promenade, Edgewater, 201-313-9463

JD’s Steak Pit

124 Main St., Fort Lee, 201-461-0444

Morton’s

The Shops at Riverside, Hackensack, 201-487-1303

The Park Steakhouse

151 Kinderkamack Rd., Park Ridge, 201-930-1300

Park West Tavern

30 Oak St., Ridgewood, 201-445-5400

The Porter House

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

River Palm Terrace

1416 River Rd. (Palisade Terrace), Edgewater, 201-224-2013

41-11 Rt. 4W (Paramus Rd.), Fair Lawn, 201-703-3500

209 Ramapo Valley Rd. (Rtes. 17S & 202), Mahwah, 201-529-1111

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

Sear House 411 Piermont Ave., Closter, 201-292-4612

Steve’s Sizzling Steaks

620 Rt. 17S, Carlstadt, 201-438-9677

Thai

Aoyama

319 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff (In Boulder Run Shopping Center), 201-847-9900

Bangkok Garden

261 Main Street, Hackensack, 201-487-2620

Penang

334 Main Street, Lodi, 973-779-1128

Pimaan

79 Kinderkamack Road, Emerson, 201-967-0440

HOLY NAME CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT

The HNMC Foundation held their annual golf tournament at Hackensack Golf Club. For more information visit: www.holyname.org/foundation

VOLUNTEER CENTER OF BERGEN COUNTY

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County held their annual golf outing at the Hackensack Golf Club. For more information visit: www.bergenvolunteers.org

Ending on a High Note

January

This may seem like a year of adventures, both good and bad, both happy and sad. Travel plans and social events open up. You might find yourself restless with the same old hairstyle or even your car. This may translate into you making some changes, like cutting your hair, possibly adding extensions or buying a convertible. It’s all about the new look. Step out of your comfort zone and be daring. Everyone will love your change. New job? Maybe. You can achieve whatever your heart desires. Make it all about you for a while; you deserve it.

April

Out of the blue changes start happening. Some may be ones you have been working on and some may just be nice surprises coming out of nowhere. Don’t feel the need to settle when job searching, as you will have some new career choices. You may feel as if you’re going backwards, but you are actually going forward. Don’t over analyze; some things are better when they happen naturally. A dental challenge will bring a better-looking smile.

July

You’re stepping it up and finally coming into your own. Struggles have been many, but on the turn of a dime, things start turning up right again, Doing things you did before—like making old friends new again—bring fun and laughter. Work it out at old haunts. Health worries have resolutions. Stay on top of it. Fear and fate collide, and fate will win. Work gets busier; money gets easier. You find yourself able to do all the things you have been putting off. This leaves you feeling more like the old you.

October

Clothes notch up your fashionista factor. Your social fundraising will also be on the rise; you may even find yourself chairing an event. You have that glow about you. Take time to clean out your closets and you might be happily surprised with what you find. Practice patience with others, especially in the workplace. Stop and count to three or take a walk before speaking. It’ll all work out peacefully. Keep dabbling at creative pursuits, as they bring you happiness.

February

Changes come along with challenges. Keep positive and don’t stress over the little things. Smiles will bring more laughter into your life and open the door to new people. Education is on your horizon. Whether it involves finishing earning that college degree or taking a course for work, learning brings new careers and opportunities to you. Taking up a new health attitude will brighten your mood and you will find more bounce in your step and more energy in your day.

May

Decisions, decisions, decisions. Take your time and don’t rush in making them. You’ll be touched by the love of so many people; even the server at the coffee shop makes your day. Family and friends are your prize possessions, so make more time to enjoy their company. Finances improve, alleviating worries. Go spend some money on yourself for a new bed or office chairs. New surroundings bring better feelings all around. Enjoy them!

August

Surprise—invitations are at your doorstep. The answer to them all is “yes!” You need to work more on your social side than your business side. Right now you are overworked and the remedy is to socialize. New friends are right in front of you; you just haven’t seen them as such. Ants in the pants can make you want to dance, so go dancing or take a dance class. You will meet exciting new people. Family fun time is a great time to catch up and create precious memories.

November

Property challenges are all around you. If you’ve been looking to make a bigger move, make sure you do all your homework before diving into it. When the time and finances are right, you will just know it. Legal matters pop up unexpectedly, but don’t stress too much. Make sure you pay your parking tickets on time. Don’t speed or you will find yourself in a pickle or a police station. Watch out for conflicts with bosses; smile and keep quiet.

Judith Turner, psychic, can be reached at her office in Edgewater at (201) 224-6629.

March

New discoveries and new surroundings will be popping up. Watch for them. Unusual travel adventures will add much excitement to your otherwise busy schedule. Complicated friendships take more effort than ever before on your part. Family upheavals will transform into the start of new hopes. Patience is what you need. Don’t add to the drama; just wait it out. All will soon be harmonious.

June

Your wardrobe needs a facelift, so think jewelry, boots and all things new. A new look will come with more places to show it off. Suddenly, you are getting many offers for dinner, lunch or a movie. Strut your new look. Some people seem like they are dragging you down or you may think they are dragging you down, but actually they are revitalizing you. Enjoy simple adventures; give balance to your life by leaving time in your hectic life to enjoy things like a good book with a glass of wine.

September

Do you notice you are getting out more and that your energy level has kicked up a notch? When it comes to unconventional relationships, keep an open mind, as they might prove quite rewarding. Connecting and doing things with the old gang will perk up your days. Reminiscing and sharing the laughter are wonderful. Try changing the your bedroom’s paint color or getting a new look in bedding. It all keeps your mood high and may even spruce up your love life.

December

Travel is coming your way, so get your bags packed and ready to go. You may be off on a plane or in-and-out of a car. You’ll find yourself covered in warmth and comfort. Clean closets and move furniture; making changes to your environment will bring more peace and relaxation into your home. Just don’t allow your new environment to turn you into too much of a homebody. Get out and socialize every opportunity you get!

200 CLUB SUMMER RECEPTION

The 200 Club of Bergen County held their annual Summer Cocktail Reception at Seasons Catering. For more information visit: www.200club.org

Why We Love the New York Jets

Being a Jets fan sure ain’t easy. In fact, most of you probably aren’t Jets fans. For better or worse, I am. I always have been and I always will be. I’m either too loyal or too stupid. Maybe I’m both.

Back to the Jets. This could be their year. I find myself saying that every year. Again, I’m either too loyal or too stupid— and on top of that, I lie to myself.

No matter what the Jets do, even if they won championship after championship, they’d still be the same old Jets. They have a firmly entrenched culture, and in my 26 years of living on Earth, they’ve never even attempted to change it. No press is bad press, right? I’m guessing those are the words to which my beloved Jets swear their eternal undying allegiance.

Like the class clown in high school, the Jets organization always gets the cheap laughs with no real substance, and like that class clown, they graduated, got a dead-end job, and wondered where they went wrong. That is my metaphor for the New York Jets. We lack the years of prestigious history of our MetLife counterparts, the stability of the team from the Steel City or the iconic franchise star who stands out from the pack. Yes, we have Joe Namath, and unfortunately, yes, we have Joe Namath.

Did I mention I’m also a Mets fan? Boy, 1969 must have been a glorious year, with the Jets winning the Super Bowl in January and the Miracle Mets shocking the world in October. I could have gotten used to that, but I’m a fan of late-season collapses and butt fumbles, broken jaws and dropped cans of corn. I’m a fan of a Testaverde’s ruptured Achilles and Darrelle Revis winning his ring elsewhere. I’m a fan of Rex

Ryan and Rich Kotite, of Bill Belichick only needing the job for a day to realize he didn’t want the job for a second one. That’s my fandom.

New Jersey has experienced some terrible winters over the past few years, so the Jets built the most expensive stadium in sports and didn’t put a roof over it. If they did, I could’ve watched them stink up the gridiron in comfort. At least we share that blame with the Giants.

The Jets should change their name to the Head Scratchers. I say this because as a fan you watch and listen, and at the end of the day, not only are you scratching your head wondering what the hell is going on, but you see the players doing it too!

We are the team that drafted O’Brien over Marino. In January 2005, we had the opportunity to win a divisional playoff game on the road against the Steelers at the foot of one of the league’s most accurate kickers. He missed—twice. We’ve been fake spiked against by the guy we spurned, and brought in Tim Tebow for no good reason. At least Marino never won a Super Bowl.

I thought it ended when “The Big Tuna” took over, but that Bill Parcells seems like just another blip in a timeline of great disappointment. Remember, he changed the whole look back to that of the original ’69 champions? From Parcells to Ryan, we’ve had brash action off the field. I’d love to see some on it.

For the rest of my life, I’ll watch my green and white. I think you will too, because whether you love the Jets or you can’t stand ’em, you can’t look away from this train wreck, and that’s why we love them.

Brandon Goldstein is associate publisher of Talk of the Town magazine and BC THE MAG Health, Beauty & Fitness.

CT IV E . R E S P ON

Introducing the first-ever 2016 GLE Coupe a dynamic new perspective on style with substance. It pushes the long-standing coupe tradition of Mercedes-Benz to new heights, with sensual lines, a stretched greenhouse and striking front grille combined with SUV characteristics such as muscular shapes, large wheel arches and a high belt line.

Introducing the first-ever 2016 GLE Coupe a dynamic new perspective on style with substance. It pushes the long-standing coupe tradition of Mercedes-Benz to new heights, with sensual lines, a stretched greenhouse and striking front grille combined with SUV characteristics such as muscular shapes, large wheel arches and a high belt line.

The limits have also been pushed in driving performance.

The limits have also been pushed in driving performance.

The GLE450 AMG ® Coupe is powered by a thrilling 362-hp biturbo V6 engine. On corners, the sleek exterior helps maximize handling and responsiveness.

The GLE450 AMG ® Coupe is powered by a thrilling 362-hp biturbo V6 engine. On corners, the sleek exterior helps maximize handling and responsiveness.

And DYNAMIC SELECT® includes five settings that allow you to personalize engine, steering and efficiency controls at the flip of a switch, making the GLE Coupe perform the way you want, when you want it.

And DYNAMIC SELECT® includes five settings that allow you to personalize engine, steering and efficiency controls at the flip of a switch, making the GLE Coupe perform the way you want, when you want it.

We provide a range of service offerings that deliver an unparalleled ownership experience centered on transparency, honesty, integrity, and trust.

We provide a range of service offerings that deliver an unparalleled ownership experience centered on transparency, honesty, integrity, and trust.

Awarded the 2014 Sales and Service Laureates Award from Mercedes-Benz for excellence in customer service.

Awarded the 2014 Sales and Service Laureates Award from Mercedes-Benz for excellence in customer service.

Experience why Benzel-Busch is America’s premier automotive dealership.

Experience why Benzel-Busch is America’s premier automotive dealership.

Arrange to meet with your own Personal Account Representative today to take an up-close look at the 2016 GLE-Class or start your journey at benzelbusch.com.

Arrange to meet with your own Personal Account Representative today to take an up-close look at the 2016 GLE-Class or start your journey at benzelbusch.com.

benzelbusch.com 800-575-0423 28 Grand Avenue, Englewood,

benzelbusch.com 800-575-0423 28 Grand Avenue, Englewood, NJ 07631