BC the Mag Winter 2024

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Winter 2024

Publishers

Sharon & Steven Goldstein

Associate Publisher

Brandon Goldstein

Editorial Director

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo

Art Director BMG Marketing

Fashion Director Candace Kristin

Contributing Writers

Tara DeLorenzo

Dr. Michael Gross

Soneca Guadara

Megan Montemarano

Emma Schmalz

Bergen County The Magazine is published six times a year. Mail all editorial and advertising materials to 297-101 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 135, Oradell, NJ 07649 or email materials to steven@bcthemag.com.

For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5196. For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com.

Copyright 2024. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.

A Letter from the Editor

I’m not one to make New Year’s Resolutions. Rather than resolutions, I’ve always liked to pick a word to describe how I’d like the year ahead to unfold. This year, however, I had a hard time picking between two words – simplify and uncomfortable.

So, 2024 is the year of simplifying and being uncomfortable for me. Now, you’re probably wondering what that entails.

Simplify. I want to simplify the routines and possessions in my home to allow for less on my to-do list and more time for things that bring me the most joy. I don’t want to be a constantly stressed-out mom or an always frazzled wife. I don’t want our house to be overflowing with “things.” I want space to play, learn and create memories with those I love the most. In essence, as Francine Jay of Miss Minimalist said, “My goal is no longer to get more done, but rather to have less to do.”

I dove into simplifying our home room by room, closet by closet, nook by nook right after I put away our beloved Christmas decorations (which I consolidated too). The result: a more organized home and four lawn-sized garbage bags full of donations. As the year continues, I plan to routinely access what’s in my home and be mindful of what I allow in.

Uncomfortable. In the summer when you get hot and uncomfortable, you jump in the pool. I want to do the same in my life. If my workout is hard, I want to jump in. If a work assignment is challenging me, I want to jump in. If a season of parenting is trying, I want to jump in.

Instead of looking at things as a stumbling block, I want to look at them as a powerful signal of personal growth. I want to lean into, or jump into, those vulnerable, uncomfortable feelings to help me stay motivated and make progress toward my goals.

What areas of your life can you improve upon? What is your word (or words) for 2024?

Simply yours,

JessiCa huMphrey-Cintineo

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Social Center for Food Action

CFA held their annual gala at the Marriott at Teaneck. For more information, visit www.cfanj.org.

Kayla Santos, Marcia Kershaw

Michael Fasciano, Cynthia and Peter Barbatos

Michele and Bill Calise

Kathy Clay-Boyd, James Geraghty

Mark Dinglasan, Denise Andersen

Denise Belcher, Gail Baskerville Norris, Dr. Karen Bennett

Dr. Menen Mathias Fredericks, Nicole Davis

Scott Reddin, Deborah and Jeff Klein

David Lindley, Paula Gilligan

Marlene Ceragno, Lori Oliff

Michele Lefkowitz, Valerie Anderson, Lisa Pitz, Mallie Romanowaki

John Szabo, Lynne and David Warshaw

Susan Porsehen, Helen Woods, Linda Somwaru

Social

Don Bosco Prep

Don Bosco Prep held their annual gala at the Westmount Country Club. For more information, visit www.donboscoprep.org.

Elaine and Sam Wright Steve and Terry Macri

William and Ann Dutcher, Susan and Robert Lennon

Gloria Prestifilippo, Deborah Boru

Danielle and Joe, Mary and Joe Purritano

Tommy Neyland, James Fortescue

Alex and Gina Karlicki

Sam, Elaine and Jordan Wright

Social Englewood Health President’s Reception

Englewood Health held their annual President’s Reception at Alpine Country Club. For more information, visit www.englewoodhealth.org.

Mark and Amy Shirvan, Mark Spivack

Carol Rubin, John Stabile, Gerald and Adele Grodstein

Michael Gutter, Mike Clarke

Sandra Sgambatti, Lorraine Salvo, Vicki Hoffman

Richard

Nazila Biria, Himanashu Rateshwar, Minaxi Jhawer

Alicia Park, Jingjing Sherman

V. Merle Mcintosh, Joanne English Rollieson

Andy Durkin, Robert Mangano, Nancy and Bruce Harper

The Shows Go On

Bergen County Players Celebrates Its 91st Season

By tara DeLorenzo

With its long tradition of bringing theater of all kinds, including musicals, comedy, drama, mysteries and thrillers, for the enrichment of the community, Bergen County Players, Inc., a non-equity community theater company, celebrates its 91st season.

Bergen County Players, Inc. will be hosting a wide variety of performances for their 2023-24 season, including A Christmas Carol The Musical, which ran from Dec. 2-17; Pride and Prejudice from Feb. 3-24; The Fantasticks from March 9 to April 6; and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time from April 20 to May 11, with additional Second Stage Productions including In and Out of the Light from Jan. 12-14 and You Make My Frame Shake! from May 31 to June 2. This 91st season is just an example of the varied seasons the Bergen County Players, Inc. works to produce to ensure there’s something for everyone available every year.

According to the nonprofit’s mission statement, “Bergen County Players, Inc. is a non-Equity,

non-profit community theater company, dedicated to presenting quality productions representative of the many facets of theater arts for the enrichment of the community. Members are encouraged to develop skills in all areas of theater production in an environment of mutual respect and support, for their own artistic fulfillment, as well as for the benefit of the organization. In this ongoing endeavor, the company seeks to play an integral role in the cultural life of greater Bergen County.”

Bergen County Players was founded in 1932 by a local group interested in theater. Their founding members met at the Hackensack YMCA and signed a charter to start up this organization – included in the founding members was Helen Burke Travolta, mother to American actor John Travolta.

Originally, the theater group did not have a permanent home and would do their shows in high school auditoriums or barns, but they did find a home at the Barn Theater in Rivers Edge until there was a fire in 1944. Still, their season went on as planned.

“In theatrical tradition: the show must go on,” said Bergen County Players, Inc. President Alyson Cohn. “The very next show was scheduled to open and they did it at Bergen Junior College, which is now the Teaneck campus of Farleigh Dickenson. They scrounged and got costumes together and they had to do it all from scratch, but they still opened on time. I don’t know how they did it.”

In 1949, the Bergen County Players, Inc. found its new home in Oradell when a new fire station was built, leaving the old fire station vacant. So, the Bergen County Players, Inc. were able to convert the fire house to their new theater space, bringing the Little Firehouse Theater to life.

Extensive renovations have been done over the years to bring the theater to the state-of-the-art facility it has become, including expansions to the seating, a dressing room area, storage space, handicap accessibilities including hearing-assisted devices and sounding and lighting boards improvements.

And just as much as the physical space has improved, the theater itself has grown in volunteers and participants.

“We’re a non-profit organization and we have over

The Original Members

300 volunteer members,” Cohn said. “It’s a family in many ways – a lot of people consider the Bergen County Players to be their second home, and their fellow members are their honorary family members. In actuality, it is a family affair, we’ve had many married couples who have met there, including me. I met my husband at Bergen County Players, and multiple generations of families continue to share in the Bergen County Players experience.”

New member orientation takes place once a month and is hosted by Membership Vice President Matthew Rofofsky. The goal of the membership is to help people learn the ropes of theater. Members help with ushering performances and throughout the shows and can attend work sessions to learn about all aspects of the industry.

“It evolves into something really special,” Cohn said. “Some people want to work on a play, some people just want to be in one play. We do ask if you want to be in more than one play that you become an associate member or regular member. There’s lots of ways to get involved and the best way to start out is to come to a new member orientation and get the ball rolling that way. You can do just a few things, or you can do a ton of things – the experience is what you want from it.”

Continued on page 20

The membership holds opportunities for people to be involved in whatever aspect of theater people are passionate about.

“What’s wonderful about the Bergen County Players is if you have one or two areas you want to focus in on, you can do that and it’s a wonderful experience, and if you have a lot of experience or vast arrays of experience in multiple areas of theater, you can work on that, and you can also explore new areas, which I think is so wonderful,” Cohn said. “We offer workshops on sound and lighting design and improv workshops and offer a great many things, in costume design, in special effect makeup designs, so you can develop new skills as well, and we have lots of new members who want to get involved, so they’re taught how to run different parts of the show. There’s so many areas to get involved in and it’s really up to you.”

It’s not just an opportunity for the members to grow, but also the community. Supporting the community and making the theater accessible is one of the top priorities of the organization. Each season, the Bergen County Players, Inc. produce six main stage

productions, which are full-length shows, and two second-stage shows, which are an hour to an hour and a half long and tend to be more avant-garde. And every December, as a main stage show, it is tradition too of the organization to do a family show, this year’s being A Christmas Carol The Musical.

The hope is there is something for everyone to enjoy with the Bergen County Players, Inc.

“Bringing arts to the community is a very important part of the community,” Cohn said. “If you look at any society, the culture of that society moves forward through history. Some people don’t have the opportunity to see and experience live theater; Broadway prices aren’t accessible for everyone, so having theater in your community that you can be part of right here in Bergen County with ticket prices that are reasonable, offering a variety of different shows becomes a very important part of the community.”

More information on the Bergen County Players, Inc. can be found at bcplayers.org.

Social Gift of Life America

Gift of Life America held their annual golf outing at White Beeches Country Club. For more information, visit www.giftoflifeamerica.com.

George Bender, Pete Graziano

Frank Pelligra, Chris Santoro, Patrick Bartender

Gary Perazzo, Michael Marchese, George DeSotle

John Chiusolo, Craig Stellakis

Tom Pierson, Imad Hawa

Mike Neuhaus, Daniel Mazon

Winter 2022

John Tabor, Chris Kuiken, Patrick Murphy, Chris Santoro

Nick Laganella Jr., Sam Wright, Nick Laganella

Michael Suriano, Michael Duch

Contributing Writers

Kevin Czerwinski

Michelle DeSantis

Dr. Michael Gross

Soneca Guadara

Megan Montemarano

Richard Posluszny

Audrey Zona

Nick Laganella, Dominic DeCarlo

Pete Caminiti, Dick Clancy

Anthony Novelo, Dominic, Anthony and John Perna

Brittany Vega, Lorraine Swinarton

Craig Behnke, Vahak Hanessian, Greg Catanzaro

Harry Gates, Brittany Vega, Nick Laganella, Lorraine Swinarton

Aram Pehlivanian, Don Jacquin

Social Hope for Children Research Foundation

The Hope for Children Research Foundation held a Fall FUNdraiser at RP Prime. For more information, visit www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org.

Minassian, Michele Oates

Lisa Digiacomo, Carolyn Kane

Ken and Grace Minassian

Ann Marie Marrone, Michele Oates, Meg Minassian

Linda and Phil Cennerazzo

Kathy Price, Kearstin Skrzypek

Stacy Mandel, Ruth Weiss

Kayla Sagliocca, Julie Minassian

Don Minassian, Kevin Downes, Bob Tufuri

Paul, Chris, and Lorraine Van Der Velde, Andrew and Arthur Weiss, Peter Van Der Velde, Ruth Weiss

Danny Minassian, Maria and Constantine Tsocanos

Danny Minassian, Emily Kunz, Shay Press, Lauren Kobes

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He’s Golden

Paul

Lim Makes Equestrian

Special Olympics History

By tara DeLorenzo

As the first participant from Bergen County Equestrian Center, 31-yearold Paul Lim has made history as the gold medal winner in both Class 10 Advanced Walk/Trot/Canter Equitation and Class 25 Advanced Walk/Trot/Canter Dressage for the Special Olympics New Jersey held in Fall 2023.

Lim was one of two members of the Bergen County Equestrian Center, and the Special Olympics New Jersey was his first time competing. Of almost 80 participants, he won the gold in his categories.

“It was really quite a challenge,” Lim said. “I never faced an obstacle like that. I’m used to taking my riding lessons for my own time, but when I got up to perform on riding courses like that, it was a very different experience for me. I never thought I was going to take out any horses I’ve bonded with out like that and test my ability with that horse to take that challenge head on.”

Lim was diagnosed with autism at the age of 4, and with autism, patients typically develop weaker muscle tone. A childhood love of medieval and samurai movies, however, inspired Lim to want to work with and ride horses, and with the help of a dedicated exercise program and the instructors at Bergen Equestrian Center, including Sabrina, Eloise, Melody, Ana and others, he was able to grow as an equestrian.

For the events for the Special Olympics New Jersey, which were done as a virtual presentation that were submitted to judges, Lim had to learn new equipment, including the different saddle and stirrup used for the dressage event. His instructor, Sabrina, was the one who guided him through all the pieces he needed to learn.

Continued on page 28

Although quite small, bees are intensely connected to the environment and play an important role in the pollination cycle. And, if they aren’t doing well, it isn’t a good sign for the rest of the ecosystem.

To train and to work with the horses, Lim does lessons at Bergen County Equestrian Center twice a week, and he also volunteers twice a week. In addition to his time in the stables, he also works out two hours a day six days a week, and he adds a 15–20-minute balancing exercise routine as well.

Between increased development, climate change and the continued use of harmful pesticides, the worldwide bee population is on the decline.

Lim’s favorite part of all of it though is the horses and the connections he creates with them.

In an effort to try and restore the bee population, the practice of beekeeping has been on the rise and rooftop apiaries have sprung up in many cities, like New York, San Francisco and Seattle.

our dedication to sustainability, such as recycling, green construction initiatives and reducing our carbon footprint,” Mosser explained.

“It was a big challenge to overcome, and it gave me such a great drive and motivation to resolve with the horse I went up with,” he said. “I was quite proud not only to select Percy, the horse I went up with, but to experience that moment I never truly imagined.”

The bees forage far and wide, pollinating flowers and plants up to two miles from their hives. Then, they return to the colony to begin honey production.

“My favorite part of being with the horses is not only to learn their characters in each environment but also to explore how to connect with them,” he said. “It’s also great for me to learn something about them whenever I go out riding. I get to learn the new levels and new things that allow me to adapt to the horses and improve my riding skills.”

Hospitals have also been doing their part to improve honeybee health, and, in turn, the environment.

A growing number of hospitals across the country have joined the rooftop hive movement in recent years, including several across North Jersey: The Valley Hospital, Chilton Medical Center and Morristown Medical Center.

To ride in the Special Olympics New Jersey, Lim and his instructor selected Percy for him to ride. And training and performing was both a challenge and moment of pride for Lim.

“Establishing the rooftop beehives is in line with

The Special Olympics New Jersey for Equestrian takes place in the fall and has five classes: obstacle; equitation; dressage; in-hand; and trail class, which is exhibition only. To be eligible, athletes must be at least eight years of age and be identified by an agency or profession to have an intellectual disability, cognitive delay by standardized measures, or a closely related developmental disability.

Holy Name Chief of General Surgery Dr. Ron White said, “As a healthcare leader, we are always looking for new opportunities to enhance the health and wellbeing of our community.”

“With honeybee numbers decreasing worldwide, we’re proud to not only help the honeybees but harvest a sweet, healthy treat for our employees and community,” he said. “Beehives can also serve as a welcome distraction for our hospitalized patients, many of whom have a view of the hives. The distraction and connection with nature also assist in healing.”

For the 2023 Equestrian division, there were 77 participants, according to Lim. Winners were notified in October with an award ceremony in November; however, the passing of Lim’s grandfather had the Lim family traveling to Korea at the time of the announcement.

White went on, “Also, bees are one of the most important pollinator species for our ecosystem and honey containers beneficial probiotics to aid in health.

Continued on page 50

“I got an email that he got the gold, and they wanted me to keep it a secret until we did the real ceremony on Nov. 1. It was so hard to keep the secret. Paul is a really hard worker,” said Lim’s mother, Sook Lim. “We came back from Korea a week before the ceremony. His brother Edward, who is an ex-marine officer, and I are very proud of Paul.”

Lim’s journey with riding started with trail riding at Garrett Mountain in West Paterson and when the director of the Bergen County Equestrian Center, Anna Gassib, was looking for volunteers, Lim started there.

The Bergen County Equestrian Center was established in 1974 and is a 22-acre multi-service horse facility that features over 75 horses. The center has three outdoor riding rings and two indoor riding rings, along with air-conditioned tack rooms and a heated lounge with a panoramic view of the main indoor area for horse show training. The center hosts multiple programs as well, including children’s summer camp, after school classes, corporate team building, and A Stable Life, which is an equestrian therapy program for families, small groups, and individuals looking to heal with the presence and interaction with the horses. They also have dedicated staff to help promote a positive experience for riders and horses.

“The instructors are very supportive,” Sook said. “Paul has special needs and needs more patience and they really help Paul and the owner Anna Waasib is very supportive too. We really appreciate their staff.”

For Lim too, the best part of the center is to make connections with both people and the horses he loves.

“I get to be around horses every day, and I get to have opportunities to meet new people and make connections. It’s one thing I love about the horses: making connections,” he said.

Looking forward, Lim has no immediate plans for other future competitions, but he and his mom are hopeful to participate in the 2024 Special Olympics New Jersey in the fall. And looking back at his experience for 2023, Lim is very proud of his experience.

“For me, I was pretty surprised [when I won] because not only was this my first time doing this, it was my first time doing something major with the horse and working with an animal was very different for me,” he said. “It was a great victory that I got to form a bond with Percy, and it was really worthwhile to experience such a thing.”

For more information regarding the Bergen County Equestrian Center, visit Bergenequestrian.com, and for additional information about the Special Olympics New Jersey, visit www.sonj.org.

Social

The Valley Hospital

The Valley Ball was held in the new Valley Hospital in Paramus. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.

Stan and Elaine Heimberger

Liz and Ralph Mastangelo

Nancy and Jim Bush

Nancy and Les Weiss

Ann and Peter Swist

Heidi and Bob Fink

Downey,

Sandy Carapezza, Janet Shapiro

Diana and Frank Hughes, Ann Marie Snyder, Gary Schulze

Charlotte and John Byrne

Arlene Liebman, Dr. Laura Klein, Susan Homann, Stuart Liebman

Ed and Joan Doherty, Max Weinberg, Carol and Bob Gillespie

Adam and Stefanie Hawkinson, Justin and Krista Korinis

Frances and Rich Keenan, Robin Goldfischer and Paul Hollander, Mike and Kathy Azzara

Dereck Lieb, Maggie Pogorelec, Charles Vannoy, David Rivera, Josie Bodino

Social

The Valley Hospital

The Valley Ball was held in the new Valley Hospital in Paramus. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.

Carapezza and Rabolli Family

Joe and Voula Lorino

Donna Lagasi, TJ Ballesteros, Stacey Halledman

Millie Chiriani, Peggy Becher, Bonnie Dalal, Leslie Frucht

Steven and Lisa Beslity Erica Flagg, Bob Gillespie, Brooke Gillespie

Bettina Daly, Barbara Crowe, Deany Rubin

William and Gerry Pehush

Christian Trautwein, Megan Fraser, Catherine and Graham Schneider

McDonough,

Nancy and Robert Davidson

Andy and Karen Hoy

The Valley Ball Committee Chris Wragge, Ed and Deany Rubin, Vic Wortmann, David Bohan, Sarah Wragge

Bill and Eileen Schwitter, Mary-Catherine and David Bohan

Toku Shimoyana and Jenna Agins, Mara Agins, Audrey Meyers and Scott Agins, D.P.M.

Now Playing: A Baby With A Baby

Valentina Zazzali Pens Show Based On Herself

By eMMa sChMaLz

Valentina Zazzali’s show “A Baby With A Baby” explores growing up through a comedic lens and the tumultuous relationships and experiences that come with it.

Twenty-year-old Zazzali grew up in Saddle River and now lives in New York City where she attends NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. “A Baby With A Baby” grew out of a school project and the main character is based mainly on Zazzali herself.

“It’s a show about getting older or like specific moments in life that hit you and all of a sudden you realize that adulthood is on its way and you’re no longer a child, no longer a teenager,” said Zazzali.

Bergen County’s theater-friendly culture is what helped push Zazzali to take musical theatre seriously and pursue it as a career.

“Everybody was doing theater and everybody was serious about it,” said Zazzali. “I think growing up in that atmosphere, it helped me decide to make theater a career when I think in other communities, it’s not as encouraged.”

Zazzali grew up in a very music-centered household and her love for musical theatre started from a very young age. She’s been participating in productions and performing on stage for as long as she can remember, but Tisch’s Experimental Theatre Wing is where she first thought of writing and creating her own work.

When it comes to “A Baby With A Baby”, Zazzali wanted to create a show that felt like stand-up comedy with a theatrical twist.

Continued on page 34

“I feel like we’ve seen so much of just one person sitting on stage telling jokes, which is great, but I think there were ways to elevate it and make it more of an art form,” said Zazzali.

Jaden Singh, Zazzali’s good friend, met Zazzali through NYU and the two have been inseparable ever since they discovered their shared love for Lady Gaga. They both cast each other in their “10-Minute Project” and Singh plays multiple characters in what would eventually become “A Baby With A Baby.” Singh explained his role in the play and how fulfilling it was to be involved in Zazzali’s production.

“I am sort of in the mix of other people helping support Valentina tell her story,” said Singh. “She talks and we just kind of pop up and provide some visuals, or jump into what she is saying, and then we disappear and move along with the story… The rollercoaster that is her piece allows all those characters and more to exist in the same space!”

“A Baby With A Baby” provides Zazzali with the experience of having complete autonomy over the character she is playing.

“Having that ownership over something was really interesting to me and you have more control over the decision to be part of the work that you care about and that you want to be a part of your performance history,” said Zazzali.

Singh mentioned that Zazzali was a great director and collected feedback from the other members of the cast while also having a clear vision of what she wanted to see on stage. Zazzali herself said that receiving feedback from others was one of the most important parts of her process as “A Baby With A Baby” was brought to life.

“It was an extremely unique

and fun process, Valentina was always trying out new jokes, new staging, playing with new ideas, sometimes just for fun to get the energy up,” said Singh. “I loved that the roles she gave me felt so campy and silly. It felt like all these characters in ‘A Baby with A Baby’ were on the brightest saturation setting on your phone which is such a dream as an actor to do.”

“A Baby With A Baby” was performed at the Brooklyn Comedy Collective in August. From Singh’s point of view, it was a fun, over-the-top comedic piece featuring sassy characters and moments that all types of people couldrelate to.

As for Zazzali’s future plans, she is rolling with the punches and is prepared to take whatever creative opportunities that come her way. She hopes to do more with sketch comedy in the upcoming year, but for now, she is always jotting down ideas and exercising her love for theater. She also mentioned potentially taking “A Baby With A Baby” to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland at some point.

Zazzali made sure to mention the importance of supporting the arts, especially if it is on a smaller scale.

“We’re so close to cities, so things like Broadway are easily accessible, but then there’s off-Broadway shows and local theater, community theater, that need just as much support,” said Zazzali.

Social JJ Gillesheimer Foundation

The JJ Gillesheimer Foundation and The NJ Honor Legion were the beneficiaries of a Dinner and Cigar Night hosted by Joseph Sanzari and the Sanzari’s New Bridge Inn.

John Salemme, Ralph Corrado, Walter Mugan, Steven Salemme

Mike Duch, Bogdan Chmielewski, Jerry Kuzemczak, Tom Duch

Ken Ehrenberg, Bobby Brown, Michael Cebulski

Jason Newman, Rick DeNicola, Joe Sanzari

Sammy Sela, Mario Recinos, Slavco Madzoron

Jerry Iannone, Josh Baty

Chris Barzelatto, Jerry Dargan

Jenna Palazzo, Stephanie Kaplan, Theresa Weglarz

Joe Racanelli, Tom Walker

Shannon and Mike Eitner, Robin Gillesheimer

Lance Van Calcar, Aldo

John Booth, Matt Carroll

Ken Ehrenberg, Vinny Cannariato, Rich Tuntigian

Jason and Robin Gillesheimer, Mom

Angelo Liloia, Bobby Brown, Derek Kahill, Matthew Demann, Tim Murray, Ron Salzano, Dave Murphy

PassinG THe BaTon

After 46 Years, Ridgewood’s Patti Wojtowicz Retires

By Megan MonteMarano

From the moment she saw a baton twirling group in a local parade, 4-year-old Patti Wojtowicz was hooked. She begged her mother for lessons in this unique sport that combines dance and color guard to create coordinated routines. Finally, her mother obliged. Little did she know that this one decision would pave the way for young Patti to grow into a one-of-a-kind athlete and mentor.

Wojtowicz performed at competitions as a soloist and in high school as the feature twirler. She began offering twirling classes in her basement while still in junior high school and later, taught baton for a dance studio. After college, Wojtowicz started a twirling program at the Ridgewood YMCA. It’s here that she first heard of the opportunity to coach a twirling team for Ridgewood High School’s (RHS) marching band.

“One of my student’s parents told me her older daughter was the captain of the twirling team at Ridgewood High School and they would welcome some help with their skills,” explains Wojtowicz. “After one season, I officially joined the staff of the Ridgewood High School Marching Band.”

The RHS Marching Band is one of the largest co-curricular activities at the school. The band competes through the USBands and the New Jersey Marching Band Directors Association marching band circuits. Most recently, RHS Marching Band placed second at USBand’s National Championships, winning the awards for Best Visual and Best Color Guard.

The baton twirling program at RHS has evolved over the years. In the early 1980s, baton began to disappear from marching bands in the area. With the support of RHS Band leadership, staff and parents, Wojtowicz and her twirlers adapted to change, met new creative challenges, and maintained a program of excellence.

“I was able to continue learning and developing my skills from incredible mentors, skilled peers, and my students, who always brought something new to the table,” comments Wojtowicz.

Today, the students are asked to do it all, from baton twirling and spinning flags, to even spinning rifles. Wojtowicz was the driving force through all of these adaptations, pushing twirling to remain not only a relevant, but a key part of the marching band experience.

Continued on page 40

“For 46 years, Patti has continued to make batons a strength of the RHS Marching Band’s visual program,” says RHS Band and Marching Band Director John Luckenbill when reflecting on her recent retirement. “I’ll never forget listening to a recording after one of our competitions and hearing the judge say, ‘Here come Patti’s batons!’ when they made their appearance. To this day, we remain one of the only competitive marching bands in the area that still twirls batons as part of the color guard. And we owe that all to Patti.”

Luckenbill has worked closely with Wojtowicz through his over 12 years as band director, collaborating on show design, choreography and building the general marching band community with a shared sense of purpose. During this time, he saw Wojtowicz’s impact on not only the marching band program, but also the students, whom she always put first. He goes on to describe her invaluable feedback, patience, incredible coaching skills, and the positive way she treated everyone, even beyond her students — a mentor and life coach to all who crossed her path.

“The RHS Band program is 101 years old,” adds Luckenbill. “Patti was here for 46 of them, through many band directors, staff members, and thousands of students. Patti is a huge part of the band’s history.”

Wojtowicz’s last official event with the RHS Marching Band before retiring was at the National Championship competition this past November. She was honored with the Silver Shako Award (the highest award given to a staff member in the RHS Marching Band) at the program’s end-of-year banquet. The festivities didn’t end there. RHS held a retirement party for Wojtowicz on Dec. 3, which was attended by many of her former marching band students and their parents, as well as her baton school and team. Those who couldn’t attend, but still had their lives touched by Wojtowicz in some way, sent videos.

“I think the most unique thing about the event were the various decades represented — people who knew Patti from the 1970s, all of the way to the 2020s. All people she’s had an impact on and a true testament to Patti’s character and influence,” says Luckenbill.

There is no questioning that baton twirling has been an incredibly rewarding part of Wojtowicz’s life. And thanks to her coaching and passion for the sport, the same can be said for many of her students’ lives as well. From twirling in college bands to becoming coaches, judges and even twirling parents, seeing and hearing about her students’ accomplishments as they apply the lessons they learned to adulthood fills Wojtowicz with joy.

“I am a firm believer of the positive impact marching band can have on young people,” comments Wojtowicz. “It gives participants an opportunity to learn many important life skills, like responsibility, flexibility, time management, teamwork, and multi-tasking, all while allowing for creative expression.”

As Wojtowicz twirls into this next exciting chapter of her life, she wishes RHS Marching Band all the best as they carry their tradition of excellence into the future.

“May you continue to grow as you positively impact the lives of young people and represent the community with pride and respect. When at rehearsal, remember: ‘Be all in, all the time.’ And when in competition, leave it all on the field.”

In addition to RHS Marching Band achievements, Wojtowicz was the recipient of the US Twirling Association’s 2023 Coach of the Year. She also served as President of the NJ Twirling Council of the United State Twirling Association and plans to continue her involvement as a coach, judge, and state board member in her retirement.

“Marching band and twirling are a family and I have been blessed with an incredible one — I can’t imagine the fall season without band,” adds Wojtowicz.

“There is a good chance you will find me on a field in South Carolina next year. But rest assured, my heart will always be on the field with the Ridgewood High School Marching Band.”

Social Reno’s Appliance

Reno’s Appliance held their annual pre-holiday networking party in their designer showroom. For more information, visit www.renosappliance.com.

From the Playground to Paris

Award-winning travel journalist and avid globetrotter, Jodi Lippe-McGraw, creates PAK

a chic, yet practical bag designed to make every family adventure a dreamy one.

By Megan MonteMarano

As the famed Oscar Wilde once said, “Live life with no excuses. Travel with no regret.” While we all would like to abide by these wise words, juggling everyday routines with grand adventures often proves to be a challenging endeavor –especially as a parent. Inspired to break this reality, Bergen County native and acclaimed travel writer, Jodi Lippe-McGraw, created PAK Rěve, or what she describes as “the veritable Swiss army knife of family travel bags.”

PAK Rěve is a seamless blend of functionality and style. The product consists of a full-sized backpack, mini backpack, waterproof wristlet and insulated pouch that all attach into one miraculously easy-to-carry bag via the unique PAK system. This clever all-in-one system allows you to quickly add or remove attachments to your Origin PAK depending on the activity. Just unsnap what you need – and get going.

In her career, Jodi has certainly traveled with no regrets. She’s been to all seven continents, including Antarctica while five months pregnant.

“When I had my son in 2018, I didn’t want to stop traveling and brought him along with me,” says Jodi. “That’s when I started to notice this gap in the market – there were no travel bags and accessories that looked chic, while still having a ton of functionality for parents. Plus, I wanted something that I could take to the playground or on a big family trip abroad.”

At just 5 years old, Jodi’s son had been to five continents and 23 different countries. From newborn to now an elementary school kid, Jodi’s travel experiences with her child made one thing clear – it was time to take matters into her own hands.

Continued on page 46

“I knew what I needed and wanted in a travel bag through all those stages, but still couldn’t find it. So, I created one.”

The brand’s ethos is reflected in its name – “Parents And Kids” (PAK) and “Rêve,” which means “dream” in French. From everyday errands to exciting excursions, this intuitive travel bag option certainly makes family outings and travel dreamy again, which is exactly what Jodi set out to do.

To develop this perfect design that is both functional and discreet, Jodi partnered with other likeminded parents to help bring her vision to life. She was eventually put in touch with a former designer at COACH, who also happened to be the father of two. For months, they experimented with different styles and fabrics, putting several samples to the test during Jodi’s numerous cross-continental journeys before landing on the final product.

During the development process, she also frequently asked local parents for their opinions and would Hasn’

tweak the design accordingly. Now that the brand has officially launched, her hope is to one day make the bags available in local stores throughout Bergen County – home to who she describes as some of the chicest moms around.

“Nothing about this bag should scream, ‘I’m a parent,’” explains Jodi. “So much of what’s out there in the parent category is cutesy. And stylish designer bags don’t have the practical functionality you need as a parent. PAK Rêve combines the two.”

PAK Rêve’s success could not have been possible without the support of Jodi’s husband, an experienced marketer, on the branding and marketing side of the business. She also contracted other working moms along the way, including her creative director and copywriter. And all PAK Rêve photos feature real parents and kids. However, Jodi goes on to say that on a day-to-day basis, she’s the main person running the show.

“My goal is to make the company successful enough

5 Yr ARM Payment Example: 60 payments of $583.57, then 300 payments of $626.34 based on a fully indexed rate of 6.500%.

that I can hire parents and provide benefits that matter to them, like subsidized childcare and college contributions.”

While Jodi never saw herself as an entrepreneur, with the right attitude and approach, she paved her own way.

“Don’t take on too much too soon,” adds Jodi when sharing her best- learned advice. “Especially as a working mom, it’s important to go through the process in bite-sized pieces – make a to-do list and focus on one to two things per week. The little things build on each other, and before you know it, you have a business.”

And the little things certainly did add up. Today, PAK Rêve’s Companion PAK has been named one of the best kids’ luggage of 2023 by Conde Nast Traveler.

Already looking for ways to improve and expand the brand, Jodi and team are working on a new fold-

able tote, fresh colors, and a family passport holder. She also hopes to eventually venture into accessories beyond bags, like family travel uniforms.

“As women transition into motherhood, they frequently find themselves at a crossroads, pressured to relinquish their pre-maternal identities and personal passions. Fashion choices, too, tend to lean more toward practicality, sacrificing chicness in the process,” she explains.

With PAK Rêve, Jodi aspires to change this pattern and forge a parent-centric product that pays homage to individuality, while integrating features to streamline the complexities of parenthood.

“Cultivating a brand that celebrates and prioritizes the parent’s unique persona fills me with immense pride, as this aspect is frequently overlooked and left by the wayside.”

For more information and to browse the shop, visit pakreve.com.

Add To CArT

Fashion Trends You Should Try This Season

By soneCa guaDara

Every year I talk about what the next season’s fashion trends are going to be. I love when people push the envelope and take fashion risks; however, for this article I wanted to round up the top trends that I think are the most accessible.

Fired Up

Red is red hot all over the runways. It is a beautiful color. It’s feminine, bold, unapologetic and sultry. It’s exactly the energy we need to get through the winter months. If wearing head-to-toe red is not your thing, you can just do one piece of red, such as a red lip. You could do a red blazer; you could do a red bag. How about sunglasses, red shoes, red booties? It is an incredible color to wear and there are so many different shades, literally hundreds. There is a shade of red that will work for you and your skin tone. It’s not just the bold red that’s on trend. It’s also burgundy, which is such a gorgeous shade and works so well on so many different skin tones. If there is a day that you need a little pick-me-up or you’re feeling really powerful and confident or just because you really want to stand out, try the red trend. Looking for designer inspiration? Look at Stella McCartney Ferragamo or Alexander McQueen.

Continued on page 54

Spot On

Probably my favorite element of my test E450 All-Terrain was how well it handled NVH. Equipped with an inline six-cylinder, turbocharged engine that produces about 360 horsepower and nearly 370 lb.-ft. of torque, you wouldn’t know it. That’s because the engine is silky smooth. While you will hear the motor spin up if you push it, the sound is not overly intrusive into the cabin.

SAY GOODBYE TO NEGATIVE THOUGHTS AND LIMITING

REJUVENATE YOUR HEALTH

Power Play

Another huge trend this season are polka dots. This is a print that is a classic so I would say it’s always “in,” but this year it just happens to be more in than usual. Polka dots and the polka dot print is a very accessible and wearable print. There are small polka dots to larger ones. Just bear in mind the bigger the dot, the more attention you will command. In terms of prints, however, the polka dot is very wearable very accessible, classic and beautiful.

We all have that voice in our heads. The little voice that tells us we are not good enough, smart enough or deserving enough. When you get a negative thought, take note of it, dismiss it, forgive it and let it go. Next reach for a new positive thought. One that makes you feel good. Focus on what is good and what is working well in your life. Surrounding yourself with positive people who lift you up and support you is also key.

The hip joint and groin muscles are susceptible to injury due to the mechanics of the skating stride. Some of the most common soft tissue injuries in hockey players include a groin strain and a hip flexor strain. Off-season strengthening and dedicated stretching before and after practice are important to prevent these injuries. In addition, a direct blow to the outside of the hip can cause a hip pointer or trochanteric bursitis. Hockey pants with reinforced padding over these vulnerable areas may help protect them.

miles on dirt roads. In most vehicles this isn’t exactly a brilliant situation since you can damage the underside of your car. But with the All-Terrain, the button to raise the vehicle’s ride height came in handy. Phew!

"It is so hard to keep them reading. Reading has become a challenge in the modern age. There are so many places you can go to not read. It has fallen out of favor and because they [students] have access to so much technology, reading pales by comparison. So film is a great platform.”

most common soft tissue injuries in hockey players include a groin pull and a hip flexor pull. A severe strain can be a nagging injury that limits performance throughout the season. A direct blow to the outside of the hip can cause a bruise (contusion) of the iliac crest (hip pointer) or trochanter (trochanteric bursitis).

Add in the extra utility provided by having a long roof and I quickly found myself examining this E450 even closer. Frankly, I am considering adding one to my fleet.

INCORPORATE A DAILY MEDITATION PRACTICE

KNEE INJURIES

Helping this was the fact my test vehicle had the Acoustic Comfort Package, meaning, it boasted additional sound deadening insulation as well as thicker glass to reduce noise. It really pays off as at speed it sounds as though you’re traveling at 20-30 mph when in reality you’re doing three times that. You won’t stress your vocal cords in this E, that’s for sure. Once again, this is a trait found in the flagship model.

So Hip

Why, you ask? Well, it’s this simple: It can do anything and it flies under the radar. For me, that’s as close to perfect as it gets.

Part of creating better mental health can be found in what’s on our plate and how we move our bodies. Small steps like taking a walk around your neighborhood, signing up for a yoga class or dancing around the house can increase serotonin, the feel good hormone. Eliminating sugar, incorporating more seasonal fruits and vegetables and drinking more water are simple steps to enhancing your health and relieving anxiety.

Make mine black on black, fully loaded and optioned with the 19-inch AMG wheels, please.

Avoiding injuries in hockey has to do with properly fitted equipment, making smart plays, following the rules and a lot of luck because hockey is inherently risky. Understanding how the injuries occur, recognizing them when they occur and seeking the best treatment will help you enjoy the game at whatever level you are playing.

All in all, I was extremely impressed during my time with the All-Terrain. Not only did it deliver with space, comfort and excellent control of NVH, it also did the unexpected.

Like any practice, you must want to do it in order to achieve results. It’s really very simple and easier than you think. Beginning a meditation practice requires only your slight willingness. Your desire for more peace in your life, less stress and better focus and so many other benefits is all you need to get on the path. Start by taking 5-10 minutes each morning to close your eyes, focus on your breath and be still. The thoughts will come and that’s natural, just let them go and return to your breath. Try counting four breaths in and four breaths out through the nose. You can also try repeating a mantra like “om” or “peace begins with me.” Start a daily meditation practice and stroll into this season with a spring in your step.

Loccke said one of her inspirations for using film in the classroom is to provide her underclassmen with a reward. Her students are always asking her if there is a film that corresponds with the book so she uses the film as a payoff once the students have finished reading the novel. She shows as many as three movies a year to her underclassmen. Time constraints – her classes are 40 minutes long – usually prevent her from showing more.

The medial collateral ligament is most susceptible to a sprain because of the leg position – pushing off the inside edge of the skate blade – and contact to the outside of the knee. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) disruption and meniscus tears (torn cartilage) can also occur but are less common in hockey than in other sports such as football, soccer and basketball.

What’s the easiest way to boost your confidence? Dressing like you’re a CEO to a Fortune 500 company. Subtly inspired by traditional office attire, “power play” is taking traditionally masculine attire and turning it into something edgier. This look was all over the runway this year. Think white button-down shirts, matching sets, pinstripes trousers and even neckties. There’s this cute white button-down blouse with a black necktie by Alice and Olivia that I was looking at that I thought is super cool. Whether you’re going into the office or just a night out with friends, power play is not only one of this year most wanted trend, but also very accessible and wearable.

Denim

“A lot of what they read they read on their own [and not in class],” Loccke said. “The movie is a great way to provide a communal feeling and it provides something they can share together. You can have a discussion and share it and the movie is something we all experience at the same time so it is very unifying.”

Power was more than adequate, which says something coming from someone who regularly drives autos with more than 600 horsepower, and when in Sport mode you can have a giggle or two. During an Everglades excursion we had to slow down to travel for about five

Tracy Flaherty is a certified integrative health and lifestyle coach; meditation teacher; and the author and founder of Be Well Nourished. She integrates meditation into her health coaching practice as well teaching meditation one-on-one and in-group settings. You can find her meditations on the Insight timer app and on her Instagram page @wellwith_tracy.

The mechanics of the skating stride makes the hip and groin muscles susceptible to injury. Some of the

Number three is the peplum. It is incredibly feminine and can really create that beautiful feminine shape that many of us are looking for. It gives you the illusion of an hourglass figure. It typically starts right around your natural waistline, which is right around where your belly button is. It is a short strip of fabric that flounces out from the waistline of a shirt, jacket, skirt or dress. Look for a peplum jacket or top or blazer to give your waist more waste definition.

Such was the case when Loccke addressed the largest classroom of her career on TCM.

Dr. Michael Gross is the founder and director of Active Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. He is the chief of sports medicine at Hackensack/Meridian University Medical Center. Dr. Gross has written numerous articles and book chapters on sports injuries. He has taken care of some of Bergen County’s finest athletes, from weekend warriors to professional athletes. Dr. Gross can be reached by email at drgross@activeorthopedic.com.

The denim trend is big right now – dark denim in particular. The reality is you can wear pretty much anything. You can still wear your skinnies. You can do straight. You can do cropped. You can do crop flare. You can do bootcut. You can do a flair jean.

You can do a wide leg. Whatever works best for your body; whatever works best for your budget; whatever calls to the most play around with it. Try some new things. Fashion is meant to be fun. It should be an area of your life. That doesn’t feel heavy. It should make you feel like you have a little extra spring in your step that can add confidence.

Back to Basics

This is one of my favorites. I mean talk about accessibility. It’s a return to minimalism. It’s basics with a twist. All about quiet luxury. Trends this stealth. It’s not a lot of embellishment or a lot of fuss. Not a lot of logos, but just simple tailored pieces that are beautiful cut. Classic, versatile and wearable.

Eighty percent of your wardrobe should be basics and 20 percent should be made up of trends. That is the same for your budget. You should spend 80 percent of your budget on basics and 20 percent on the trends. So even though this is a trend these are basic pieces.

If you find a piece that really fits you beautifully and it’s a basic, don’t be afraid to invest a little bit more because it’s worth it. You’re going to wear it for years and years to come. By the way, if you’re not sure what basics you should have, I created a free download titled “Your Must Have Wardrobe Checklist.” It’s simple and it walks you through step-by-step exactly what you should have in your wardrobe for it to function seamlessly. Go to www.StyleBySoneca. com.

Soneca Guadara is a personal fashion stylist who makes her clients feel beautiful and confident. When Soneca is not working her magic assisting her clients, she can be found working backstage at New York Fashion Week, working on location shoots and contributing as an on-air fashion/style expert and style writer. You can follow Soneca on her Instagram –@StyledBySoneca – for weekly tips.

HHackensack University Medical Center Launches Comprehensive Weight Loss Center

ackensack University Medical Center has created a comprehensive program for people who feel they have tried everything to try to lose weight and are not succeeding. The team at the Center for Weight Loss and Metabolic Health customizes a personalized plan of care for each patient that considers their medical needs and personal preferences to support weight loss goals.

Participants have access to all possible weight loss options through one coordinated program.

“We understand that weight management is not one size fits all,” explained Mark D. Sparta, FACHE, president and chief hospital executive of Hackensack University Medical Center and president, Northern Region, Hackensack Meridian Health. “People may need a program that integrates more than one approach to achieve the best results.”

The process sTarTs wiTh a pre-screening evaluaTion ThaT includes:

-Blood tests to assess your metabolic health

-A review of health and medical history

-Questions about what weight loss methods that have been tried before

-Questions about physical activity and exercise

-A survey about sleep apnea

paTienTs Then meeT wiTh a healThcare professional maTched To Their needs, who cusTomizes a plan of care ThaT may include:

-Nutritional counseling

-Weight loss medications

-Weight loss surgery

-Exercise guidance

-Dietary supplements

The cenTer parTners wiTh healThcare professionals from differenT deparTmenTs of The hospiTal who have experience in weighT managemenT and knowledge of The effecTs of weighT on healTh, such as:

-Endocrinologists, who specialize in medical weight loss and treat diabetes

-Bariatric surgeons, who provide weight loss surgery approaches

-Registered dietitians

-Experts in sleep medicine

-Cardiologists (heart doctors)

-Fitness experts

you May Be eLigiBLe for the Center’s serviCes if you have a BoDy Mass inDex (BMi) of 27 or More anD are having trouBLe Managing your Weight on your oWn. the teaM aLso heLps peopLe With Weight-reLateD

MeDiCaL ConDitions suCh as:

-Diabetes

-High blood pressure

-High cholesterol/triglycerides

-Heart disease

-Sleep apnea

“Our team at the Center for Weight Loss and Metabolic Health understands that weight loss is a lengthy journey,” asserted Hans J. Schmidt, MD, who leads the Center. “We are committed to staying on that journey with each person for as long as it takes.”

To schedule an appointment, call 551-996-4424.

Social Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative

BVMI held their annual gala at Edgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.bvmi.org.

Rita Prospero, Artie Cohen

Amanda Missey, Samantha Plotino

Dr. Sansar and Janet Sharma, Joseph Chinnici

Mimi and Dr. Steven Waxenbaum

Flora Temibolat, Lori Balestri

Michael Azzara, Amanda Missey, Mike Faust

Raisa Ydavoy, Kristina Malik, Alicia Montes, Janet Caballero

Dr. Mike Faust, Dr. Elizabeth Reily, Dr. Terry Hensle

Dr. Gian Varbaro, Erica Joy, Eddie Gollhoffer

and Cynthia Johnson Barbato, Gina and Ralph Affuso

Lanre and Dr. Antonia Oladipo

Ben Kim, Chloe Chang, Julie Ryoo, Joe Park

John and Kathy Albohm Raquel Molina, Lauren Savage, Michael Channanie, Christine Hamel, Danielle Lambert

Cathy Davey, Kaarin Varon, Idana Goldberg

AChilles Tendon injuries: A GAme-ChAnGer in sporTs

By Dr. MiChaeL gross

As a N.Y. Jets fan, it is painfully obvious how meaningful an Achilles tendon injury can be. As an orthopedic surgeon, it is both humbling and inspiring to witness the determination and passion exhibited by athletes like Aaron Rodgers. Injuries are an unfortunate part of their careers but overcoming them requires a steady approach and expert medical care. This article explores the world of Achilles tendon injuries, exploring the causes, treatment options and the road to recovery.

Understanding Achilles Tendon Injuries

The Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in our body, connects the calf muscles (gastrocnemius) to the heel bone (calcaneus). It plays a crucial role in everyday movement and is particularly vital for athletes participating in sports involving quick and explosive movements, such as football. Only four plays into the season with his new team, the N.Y. Jets, Aaron Rodgers, the renowned football quarterback, has faced the challenges of an Achilles tendon injury, highlighting the gravity of this condition.

Causes and Risk Factors

Achilles tendon injuries can occur due to sudden trauma, repetitive stress or degeneration over time. Factors, such as overuse, improper footwear, inadequate warm-up and age-related degeneration, increase the risk of injury. In Rodgers’ case, the combination of intense training, the demands of competitive football, and wear and tear on his Achilles tendon led to his injury. Football is a contact sport, but as with most Achilles injuries, this was a non-contact injury.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Achilles tendon injuries often manifest as a sharp pain or a popping sound at the back of the lower leg, accompanied by swelling and difficulty walking or pushing off. Athletes frequently describe the feeling that someone kicked them in the calf, only to turn around and see there is no one there. Some athletes even thought that they had been shot in the back of the leg. Keep in mind, these injuries can occur of the field as well, at work or in the home. After a few minutes, they pain may disappear, but you will have difficulty walking, standing on your toes or even just pointing your toes to the floor (pushing on the gas pedal). There may be tenderness at the back of the heel or in the calf. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. An orthopedic surgeon will conduct a thorough examination, including imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI, to accurately diagnose the extent of the injury.

Treatment Options

The treatment approach for Achilles tendon injuries varies based on the severity and individual patient factors. Non-surgical options, such as rest, immobilization with a boot or cast, physical therapy and medication for pain management, are often prescribed for partial tears or sedentary patients. However, Achilles tendon injuries in young, active patients usually require surgical intervention. The higher recurrence rate for non-surgical treatment makes it an unattractive alternative for many patients.

Surgical Methods and Rehabilitation

When surgical intervention is necessary, advanced techniques are employed to repair or reconstruct the damaged Achilles tendon. These procedures, performed through small incisions, ensure a quick and effective recovery. Following surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program, supervised by a specialized physical therapist, aids in restoring strength, flexibility and mobility, ultimately enabling athletes to resume their sport.

The Road to Recovery

Recovering from an Achilles tendon injury is a challenging journey. Rehabilitation may take several months, requiring patience, perseverance and adherence to a disciplined regimen. Athletes, like Aaron Rodgers, demonstrate commendable dedication and work closely with medical professionals and trainers to regain their pre-injury performance levels. He says he hopes to return to playing this season. For most patients, returning to sport and full activity takes 6-12 months after surgery.

Prevention and Injury Risk Reduction

Prevention is always better than cure. To minimize the risk of Achilles tendon injuries, athletes should prioritize proper warm-up routines, adequate stretching, gradual progression in training intensity and the use of appropriate footwear. Regular physical check-ups and seeking immediate medical attention for any discomfort or pain can also help prevent the onset of severe injuries.

Achilles tendon injuries undoubtedly pose significant challenges to athletes, like Aaron Rodgers, but with expert medical care, determination and a comprehensive rehabilitation program, elite athletes and weekend warriors alike can return to the field stronger than ever. For a sports medicine specialist, it is key to provide guidance and support to individuals facing such injuries, empowering them to overcome adversity and achieve their goals.

Social Josephine’s Garden

Josephine’s Garden held their annual luncheon at Seasons. For more information, visit www.josephinesgarden.org.

Nicole

The Valley Hospital is moving to Paramus, and it’s a new healthcare experience from every angle. Private rooms, expanded emergency care, and advanced technologies – all delivered with the same compassion you’ve come to expect from one of the best hospitals in New Jersey. The new hospital will be the heart of a 40-acre health and wellness campus. It’s our new home, and your new hospital.

MOVING TO PARAMUS ON APRIL 14. Learn more at ValleyHealth.com/NewHospital