BC the Mag Holiday 2021 by Bergen County the Magazine

Holiday 2021

Rockin’ ARound Festive Fashions For your holly jolly holidays Meet The Grewals

One of Bergen County’s most influential movers and shakers

You Up For Downtown? The SACK aims to restore Hackensack

The Spirit of Giving Commit to improving our communities

ACHIEVE THE RIGHT WEIGHT FOR YOU Our bariatric surgeons provide a personalized treatment plan designed for your weight loss journey. From laparoscopic surgery to robotics, our team can help identify the best procedure to help you achieve your weight loss goal. Enroll in one of our weight loss webinars to learn more and start the path to a healthier you. Learn more call 551-996-4424 or visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Bariatrics

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Holiday 2021

Fall 2021 Summer 2021 Publishers

Publishers Sharon & Steven Goldstein Sharon & Steven Goldstein Associate Publisher

Brandon Goldstein Associate Publisher Brandon Goldstein

Editorial Director Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Editorial Director

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Art Director BMG Marketing

Art Director BMG Marketing Fashion Director Candace Kristin

Fashion Director Candace Kristin Photography Photography

Ashley MarionPhotography Mortensen Rick Helman Photographers Mitsu Yasukawa of USA TODAY NETWORK Writers 4Contributing Eyes Photography Kevin Czerwinski Contributing Writers Tara DeLorenzo Kevin CzerwinskiWriters Contributing Kristin BrandonFavaloro Goldstein Kristin Favaloro Soneca Guadara Dr. Michael Gross Brandon Goldstein Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Soneca Guadara Dr. Michael Gross Richard Richard Posluszny Posluszny Soneca Guadara Kimberly Kimberly Redmond Redmond Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Brianna Ruback Brianna Ruback NJ Sharing Alisa Singer Network

Richard Posluszny

Bergen County The Magazine is published six times a year. Mail all editorial and advertising materials to 297-101 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 135, Oradell, NJ 07649 or email materials to steven@bcthemag.com. For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5197 or (201) 694-5196. For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com. Copyright 2021. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.

4 2021 4 | Fall

Summer 2021

A Letter from the Editor

ne of my closest friends recently told me she is making the conscious choice to start each day with two words every morning: thank you. Immediately, I thought of how I start most of my days – being awoken by a shouting 2-year-old that wants out of his crib because “The sky’s awake, so I’m awake” (Thanks, Frozen!). If my darling 2-year-old isn’t waking me up, I’m being awoken by the gentle vibrating of my Apple Watch, the drill sergeant telling me to get up before the rest of the house and exercise. I enjoy exercising, but I also like my sleep. In neither of those situations, do the two words thank you come to mind before anything else. Truth be told, I’m usually starting my day thinking something negative – Why must he scream?! It’s morning already?! Do I have to wake up now to exercise or can I fit it in somewhere else today? Shoot, I still must make the school lunch! Why did I stay up late with Netflix again?! Since my friend introduced me to her morning ritual, I’ve also been trying to make the choice to start my day with a heart of thanksgiving. And, in doing so, I realized how infrequently I had been showing myself some gratitude. Lately, which is fitting since the Thanksgiving holiday is approaching, I’ve been starting my day by embracing the shouting – it means I have a healthy, happy 2-year-old, a son I wished and prayed for; many are not so lucky. I’ve been welcoming the Apple Watch vibration – it means I am making time for me. There’s thanksgiving in the mundane. How often do you thank yourself? Your body? Your mind? As we enter this holiday season, I invite you to remember you while you’re taking care of everything else on your list. Be mindful. And, maybe find yourself a friend like I have that challenges you to be better and keep growing. Sending you love, Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo

Among the Three Best Hospitals in New Jersey Care Like No Other

The Valley Hospital has been ranked the third best hospital in New Jersey, and the fifteenth best hospital (in a three-way tie) in the entire New York metropolitan area, by U.S. News & World Report for 2021 – 2022. In addition, Valley achieved the highest possible rating – high performing – in 12 areas of care: n n

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These distinctions are a reflection of our longstanding commitment to providing excellent clinical care and service.

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Contents

Art

You Up For Downtown? The SACK Aims To Restore Hackensack

Montvale Teen Proves Autism Is ‘A Gift, Not A Setback’ By Releasing First Novel

Share The Spirit of Giving

AUTO

THE SPORTS DOCTOR

EATS ‘American Bulldog Coffee Roasters: It’s Not Just About the Coffee Here

Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain The #1 Reason You Should Ditch Your SUVs Hit The Slopes, Not The ER Ten Tips to Avoid Ski Injuries

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT The Diabetes Foundation Is Dedicated To Providing Qualified, Free Support

Meet The Grewals

One of Bergen County’s Most Influential Movers and Shakers

Recipes

Fashion

LAST LAUGH

STYLE BY SONECA

Holiday Style Guide ‘Tis The Season For Holiday Trends

Shake up the Tailgate

Social The Timepiece Collection 20th Anniversary Dinner The Timepiece Collection, hosted with Bulgari, celebrated their 20th anniversary at The Saddle River Inn. For more information, visit www.thetimepiececollection.com.

Philippine Dubois, Michael Rosenberg, Gina Famularo

Michelle Rosanvallon, Jill Campoli, Erin Hasch, Lou Lignelli

Jeff Khalaf, Michael Rosenberg

Joel and Alec Mishkin

Bob and Carol Anne Mangano, Jeff Khalaf

Michael Rosenberg, Rich Aldorisio, Jose Diaz

Brandon and Steven Goldstein

Mark Khaimov, Irina Simont

Elena and Joseph O’Neill

Darren and Victoria Jachts

John Holubooicz, Jorge Davila

John and Phil Burns, Ben Winikoff

Alette and Keith Slobodien

Dior Lucas, Liz Sanchez

Michael Rosenberg, Gina Famularo

Alette Slobodien, Keith Slobodien, Victoria Jachts, Darren Jachts

Social Women First International Fund The Women First International Fund hosted a luncheon at Capital Grille to raise money for their mission. For more information, visit www.womenfirstfund.org.

Candace Kristin, Noelle Silberbauer

Noelle Silberbauer, Emily Forhman

Katya McKnight, Caroline Guarino, Jamie LePore

Yolimar Marese, Stefanie Stone, Bridget Burke

Eliana Seigel, Heidi Arpacilar

Nicole Bello, Kiersten Antaki, Remy Bogan

Arleen Paladino, Melissa Kieferle

Ronnie Gringeri, Gary Silberbauer, Janet Melia

Hiba Kolkas, Julie Jabaly, Jill Ceglie

Aurelia Shafir, Susan Benjamin

Lisa Herrmann, Candace Kristin

Marie Perrette, Mary Ann Silberbauer

Andrea Filippelli, Kelsey Ottoson, Esther Louis

Catherine Espino, Tracy Betz

Uta Betancourt, Natalia Antaki

Norina Lapp, Erica Ronan, Josephine DeBartolo

Social 200 Club Valor Awards The 200 Club of Bergen County held their annual J. Fletcher Creamer Sr. Valor Awards Dinner at The Venetian. For more information, visit www.200club.org.

William Rice, Jay Mignogna, John Hynes

Richard, Richard, Mary Ann and Richard Hubschman

Jack DeLorenzo, Holly Schepisi, Glen and Fletch Creamer

Ray Pipher, Harry Gates, David Hughes

Don Silver, Joe Coccaro

Fred Pulice, Vanessa and Julio Alvarado

Thomas DiSalvatore, Carmello Imbruglia, Michael Pontillo

Rob, Susan, Jenna and Michael Renna

Diane and John Taylor

Rick, Ashley and Benjamin Totten

Joe Coccaro, Phil Ciarco, Richard Hubschman

Chris Puglin, Steve Panagi, Greg Santangelo, John Szot, John Gleason

Jerry Silberman, Steve Yatko, Stevie Z., Ted Bohus

Mark Pinajian, Paul Siemon, Rob Giudetti

Andrea Betancourt, Linda Hubschman

Tami Trobiano, Jo Ann Sanzari

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LEVEL 1 NEAR GUCCI

Social Bergen Police Chiefs Golf Outing The Bergen Police Chiefs Association held their annual benefit golf outing at White Beeches Country Club. For more information, visit www.bergenpolicechiefs.org.

Randy Carson, Rocco Dalleva

Chris McWilliams, Brian Lamendola

Dr. Marc Picchierri, Lindsay Dwyer, Dr. Brandon Picchierri

Paul and Nick Provost

Tim Haruthunian, Tim McWilliams

Fred Stahman, Ed Kasper

Rich Tuntigian, Steven Goldstein

Brian Clancy, Jerry Abrams

Frank Gurnari, John Burke, Michael Gracey

Joe Madden, Lawrence Suffern, Don Rossi

Greg Heitmann, David Plarre

Brian Bruton, Mike Lauk, Tom Greeley

Tom Durso, Jeff Morris

Brian Murphy, Patrick Reynolds

Paul Yoon, Eddie Young, Matt Hintze, Bryan Drumgoole

Steven Goldstein, Rich Tuntigian, Chris Martin, Tom Schein

ART

Montvale Teen Proves Autism Is ‘A Gift, Not A Setback’ By Releasing First Novel By Brianna Ruback

ontvale resident Ben Levin has always had a passion for writing. From creating a Harry Potter rewrite at age 10, to publishing Nellie’s Friends, a children’s book series, as a 16-year-old, Levin has demonstrated true commitment to bringing joy to people through storytelling. Now at 18 years old, Levin has made his debut in young adult fiction with the recent launch of his first novel, In the Hole, which presents a child’s experience with homelessness. After watching a video about homeless children in Florida during an eighth-grade religious school class, Levin felt compelled to raise awareness about the United States’ homelessness crisis. Then, a character quickly popped into his head: David Kimball. Other story elements slowly came together, and soon enough, Levin began writing his story. In the Hole follows nine-year-old David Kimball, whose life suddenly unravels after his father loses his restaurant and, later, their home. Forced to live in a small borrowed car, David and his family seek shelter and soon find refuge in a run-down inn. Throughout the novel, David struggles to maintain a sense of normalcy as he and his family confront the harsh realities of homelessness. Searching for the strength and resources to help his family, David leaves readers wondering whether he and his family will make it out of “the hole.” Told through David’s perspective to emphasize that homelessness can happen to anyone, including children, In the Hole explores a variety of themes, ranging from poverty, addiction and bullying to hope, perseverance and community. To ensure that his portrayal of homelessness was accurate, Levin interviewed several individuals who faced homelessness, as well as people who work at organizaPhotos By Rick Helman Photography tions committed to helping those experiencing severe economic hardships, such as National Poverty Law Center, about 150 stories over the course of his life. Now, he is curCovenant House New Jersey and Family Promise of New rently working on four different stories: a biography about Jersey. the Wright brothers, a historical fiction novel about World War II, a musical and the seventh book in one of his series As written on Levin’s website, “In the Hole offers to about a writing and reading club. give hope and inspiration to young adults and their families who face homelessness and economic insecurities “I love working on a bunch of stories at once,” he said. “I during this challenging time in history as we collectively am a machine [that] enjoys producing and producing and face a global pandemic.” producing.” Despite publishing a novel just three months ago, Levin has no intention of slowing down, having already written

As part of his writing process, Levin often gets inspired to Continued on page 20

write by scrolling through social media, listening to music new activities, such as musical theatre and managing the or going for walks. And while he is most successful under Pascack Hills High School soccer team. a time crunch, Levin aspires to continue building and improving his writing stamina. Currently a senior, Levin is also in the process of applying to colleges. He plans on studying creative writing, with the Going forward, Levin would like to continue raising ultimate goal of becoming a full-time writer, though he is awareness about causes he is passionate about while also also interested in teaching English. using his status as an author on the spectrum. Above all, Levin wants to continue bringing happiness to Proud to be autistic, Levin strives to help other autistic people, particularly kids, through his stories while simultapeople understand that they are no less than neurotypical neously encouraging people to believe in themselves. (non-autistic) people and are just as capable of achieving their goals. He advocates that “autism is a gift, not a “I want to be an example of how dreams come true,” he setback.” said. “I spent years being ashamed of my autism and thinking that it made mess less than human,” Levin said. “But this year, I started to understand that autism was something in me that I could embrace and that it wasn’t a curse or something that made me inferior to others. It was a blessing. I don’t think I would have become a writer if it wasn’t for autism.” Writing has continued to provide Levin with a source of solace throughout his life, helping him get through several challenging times, such as fitting in at school. It has also given him a sense of purpose, inspiring him to take on

In The Hole can be purchased on Amazon.com and JumpmasterPress.com. For more information on Ben Levin and In The Hole, visit https://benlevinauthor.com/ or @benlevinauthor on Instagram.

All of us for all of you. *All photos taken prior to masking requirements.

Whether you need a routine visit with a primary care doctor or want to have something checked out by a specialist, the Englewood Health Physician Network has you covered. Our team of more than 500 providers welcomes patients at more than 100 office locations throughout northern New Jersey and Rockland County, New York. SERVICE AREAS: Bariatric Surgery Behavioral Health Blood Disorders Breast Surgery Cancer

Emergency Medicine (adult & pediatric)

Interventional Cardiology

Pulmonology

Endocrinology (adult & pediatric)

Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Radiology

Men’s Health

Rheumatology

Neonatology

Sleep Medicine

Neurology

Surgery

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Surgical Oncology

Functional Medicine

Cardiac Electrophysiology

Gastroenterology (adult & pediatric)

Cardiology

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Orthopedics

Thoracic Surgery

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Gynecologic Oncology

Pain Management

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Diabetes Education

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Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

ENT Head & Neck Surgery

Integrative Medicine

Podiatry Primary Care

Vein Disease Women’s Health Wound Healing

Find a physician: Call 833-234-2234 or visit ehpn.org

Social CarePlus New Jersey Golf Outing The CarePlus Foundation held a golf outing at the Edgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.careplusnj.org.

Giovanni Gianella, Jack, Mark Curcio, Steve Goldstein

Tim Devries, Mike Gammarati, Jonathan Goldstein

John Chinchar, Ellery Tarife, Jerry Joseph

Steve Krumrei, John Schleer, Tim DeCola, Ryan Sanzari

Jordan Kalender, Michael Piromallo

Marc Brenner, Michael Tabakin

Kenneth and Catherine Schnoll

Justin and Peter Kroner

Matt Pizzolato, Bobby Antonicello

Harry Ferguson, Dennis Attenello, John Uzzi, Pete Miragliotta, Joe Masciadaro

Juan Padilla, Dave White, James Munro

Kenny and Kaitlin Zien

Justin Sambol, Dr. Sanjev Patel

Alvaro Pineda, Adam Nord

John Lawrence, Mike Barbara

Jeff Kahn, Jeremy Levy

Social Town Title Golf Outing The Town Title Foundation held their annual golf outing at the Ridgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.towntitle.us.

Josh Thomson, Dina Ciambrone

Dina and Joe Ciambrone

Chris and Art Rotio, Joe Ciambrone, Josh Thomson

Jackie DiSalvatore, Dina Ciambrone

Mary Lynne Kiernan II, Mike Petrucelli, Alex Kaplan

Chris, Dawn and Juliana Rotio

Norm Makoujy, Chris Poppe, Jack Daniels, Jack Daniels Jr., Josh Baty

Steve Meglio, Phil Caprio

Caryl and Jim Kourgelis

Tom and Kate Eastwick

Debbie Rotio, Jennifer Breslin, Amy Stoll, Dawn, Julianna and Dana Rotio

Art, Julianna and Debbie Rotio

Nick Bufano, Renee Cirelli, Lou Romano

Stephen and Lisa Amoratis

Mark Sparta, Bob Garrett, Chris Rotio, Joe Sanzari, Josh Thomson, Joe Ciambrone, Dr. Sharad Sahu , Dr. Michael Kelly

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You Up For Downtown? Aims To Restore Hackensack By Kimberly Redmond

or decades, downtown Hackensack was the premier destination for residents from throughout North Jersey.

During its heyday, the city’s central business district was home to bustling department stores, like Sears and F.W. Woolworth’s, and popular entertainment venues, including the Fox Theatre and Oritani Theatre. But the advent of shopping malls – like Paramus Park, Garden State Plaza and Riverside Square – in the 1960s and 1970s, followed by the arrival of big-box retailers in the 1980s and 1990s, set off a long decline that led to increased store vacancies and dwindling foot traffic along Main Street in Hackensack. “Unfortunately, during the 80s, 90s and early 2000s, we never had an opportunity to adapt to the changing demographic, changing needs and changing customer,” said Bryan Hekemian, principal of Hekemian & Co., Inc., a Hackensack-based property management company, and chairman of The SACK Business Alliance. Hackensack, like many other New Jersey cities, has struggled amid the ever-evolving retail landscape that has pulled shoppers away from downtowns in favor of big retail stores and online. In response, towns, such as Montclair, Hoboken, Edgewater, Pompton Lakes, and Morristown, have successfully reinvented themselves over the past several decades, welcoming high-end housing, retail, dining and recreation. Hekemian, a longtime Hackensack resident, believes the city can similarly transform itself into a vibrant, walkable downtown and reclaim its status as a true Bergen County destination. And, ever since 2004, the Alliance, a Special Improvement District (SID), has been working toward its goal of restoring Hackensack’s once-great business district. Now, construction reverberates throughout the center of Hackensack, thanks in part to a sweeping downtown revitalization plan aimed at attracting new retail and residential properties. “The goal is to make it a true work-sleep-play environment,” said Hekemian, adding that just a few of the elements that make a downtown “convenient and vibrant” are restaurants, salons, tiny grocery stores and coffee shops.

Photo courtesy of the NY Times

Continued on page 30

Photo by Mitsu Yasukawa of USA TODAY NETWORK

“We’re starting to see glimpses of that,” he said. “It’s exciting to drive down Main Street – you see more people walking and driving, more businesses coming in and more looking at locations in Hackensack. A drive down Main Street today is different than what it was three years ago.” The Alliance, along with city officials and other stakeholders, has worked to enact zoning and policy changes that would allow for mixed-use development downtown, paving the way for residential and commercial spaces along Main and State streets. In 2012, the city approved a redevelopment plan covering a span of over two miles that promoted a range of uses, a change aimed at attracting developers, new residents and business owners into the downtown. The approved plan, which was drafted by the Alliance and city stakeholders following extensive public outreach, encourages activity through the support of mixed-use development and pedestrian-friendly enhancements. It also promotes increased use of Hackensack’s transit links – the city’s bus terminal, which provides access to 12 different NJ Transit bus routes, as well as its two train stations along the Pascack Valley rail line.

Altogether, the redevelopment will represent over $1 billion in new private real estate value and result in lower property taxes for current homeowners. More than two dozen projects are already underway, with at least 4,200 residential units built or approved and an additional 2,710 planned or in the approval process. Though the COVID-19 pandemic had initially slowed revitalization efforts somewhat, Downtown was able to survive with voucher programs that helped families, first responders and frontline workers get food as well as coupon programs for residents to use at local businesses. Another significant milestone in the overall redevelopment effort occurred this past May, when the entire length of Main Street was reopened to two-way traffic for the first time since 1976, a move aimed at making the central business district more accessible and safer. “We’re pleased to see the fruits of our labor. You have to understand that every time the administration changes, we’re always worried whether they will embrace what’s going on,” Hekemian said. “Throughout the past four administrations, they’ve all seen the vision.” Continued on page 32

To help alleviate the financial burden of these services, “It’s a public-private andtowe’ve worked hard Mission: Kid Successpartnership issues grants families, so their to get where it is. Our board, the city and the city staff children can receive services and participate in programs worked tirelessly to make it happen,” he said.the nonprofit they couldn’t afford otherwise. Additionally, educates families on pertinent topics, such as at-home Ed Decker, vice chairman of the Alliance and owner of exercises and activities, working with teachers and aides, Musically Yours, a Main Street audio visual equipment implementing dietary changes and limiting screen time. supplier, involved with redevelopment All grantshas arebeen awarded to children younger than efforts 21 years since the beginning and could not be prouder of the district’s work. “Everything happening here now is what’s drawing people in now,” Decker said, adding, “We’re excited for all the new businesses and excited for more people moving here.”

old who reside in the New Jersey and New York MetroDecker heInbelieves it is important city toawarded retain politansaid area. 2020 alone, Mission: for Kidthe success diversity within its business community because he believes over $20,000 in grants, which were allocated to services that will ensure Hackensack remainsand a destination. ranging from functional medicine related supplements

to auditory verbal therapy and sensory motor and cogniJust Main Street and you’ll be treated to a diverse tiveexplore training. mix of retail offerings that include law offices, fashion boutiques, an ice cream parlor, a fitness center and even a juice bar. Main Street also has numerous eclectic dining options, like Cuban, Colombian, Thai, Indian, Lebanese and Soul.The city is already well known with foodies; it is home to the popular German bakery B&W and White Manna Hamburgers, Continued on page 34

20 | Fall 2021

which frequently ranks high on best burger lists. Being Bergen County’s most ethnically diverse community is an aspect of Hackensack that the Alliance has no desire to change, said Hekemian.

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“We’re not trying to fit something in that doesn’t belong. It’s appropriate development within the appropriate district of Hackensack,” he said.

But, he said, what they are trying to do is “change the perception of Hackensack” from stagnant to thriving. That’s why the Alliance is in the midst of a marketing push to accompany the billions of dollars worth of new development underway – an effort that included the unveiling of a new nickname, The SACK, earlier this year.

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According to Hekemian, longtime residents have used the nickname “The SACK” before and the Alliance hopes reviving the buzzy nickname will make the city more attractive to potential residents, visitors and business owners.

t ith he

“All of the sudden, it was a topic of discussion at dinner tables,” he said. “That’s not a bad thing.”

“Hackensack has a great canvas, but it’s not a blank one,” Hekemian said. “We’ve got to make this canvas the best we can and be stewards of change. We can’t just want and do wholesale change in the district. We have to work with stakeholders.”

As for the future of The SACK, that can be summed up with the new anthem cry that is being showcased all over this vibrant area of the city –You Up For Downtown?

Patrick M. Double Knee Replacement

WHEN THE WHOLE WORLD STOPPED, WE GOT PATRICK dancing AGAIN. 17 steps. That’s how far it was from Patrick’s bedroom to the bathroom. He counted every step, because he was in so much pain. After 10 years, he just couldn’t take it anymore. So in March 2020 he scheduled a double knee replacement. And then the pandemic hit, shutting down elective surgeries. But Dr. Mark Hartzband knew what this surgery meant for Patrick. So he kept his surgery date. And now, Patrick doesn’t count steps. He dances them.

Read Patrick’s story at ThisPlaceIsDifferent.org

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Go Further

Social Foundation for Free Enterprise The Foundation for Free Enterprise held their 33rd annual luncheon at Sanzari’s New Bridge Inn. For more information, visit www.fffe.org.

Martin Kafafian, John Corcoran

Dr. Gary Munk, MaryAnn Donohue-Ryan

Bob Glenning, Dr. Ihor Sawczuk

Nic Boscia, Dr. Judy Aschner

Jacqueline Smith, Monica Rivera, Matt Langer, Taylor Smith, Rose Alvarado, Kathryn Pless

Dr. Dan Varga, Linda MuHugh, Bob Garrett

Diane Scriveri, Tony and Tammi Trobiano

Ro and Sandy Sorce

Martin Kafafian, Mark Sparta, Mark Stauder

Joanne Cimiluca, Joan Foley

Michelle and Joe Conte

Sharon Goldstein, Ro Sorce, Lisa Futterman

Bhavna Tailor, Tom Eastwick, Cathleen Davey

Bob Garrett, Ro Sorce, Mark Sparta

Bob Garrett, Ro Sorce

Ro Sorce, Ava Dolcemoscata

Non-Profit Spotlight

DO YOU KNOW YOUR RISK? It is projected that

3 IN 5 people will have diabetes by 2050 Living With Diabetes?

The Diabetes Foundation Is Dedicated To Providing Qualified, Free Support

By Kimberly Redmond

mid the COVID-19 crisis, there is another public health emergency that is continuing to take its toll in the Garden State.

Long before the onset of the coronavirus outbreak in Spring 2020, thousands of New Jerseyans were already struggling to control their diabetes. So, when the pandemic struck, people with diabetes were already in poorer health, putting them at an even higher risk for serious complications from the virus. During the early days of the crisis, many in-person support services for patients with chronic conditions like diabetes were halted as hospitals and doctor’s offices sought to limit the spread of the virus. And, as a high-risk population, many diabetics were fearful of venturing out to obtain back-up medical supplies needed to test and manage their blood sugar. Continued on page 42

More than a year-and-a-half later, COVID-19 has had an especially devastating impact on the country’s diabetic population. Of the 630,000 virus-related deaths, 40 percent of those patients also had diabetes, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In New Jersey, diabetes was an underlying cause in 39.1 percent of the state’s 24,000 coronavirus deaths. After Mississippi, New Jersey leads the nation in increased diabetes deaths per capita, a recently released study from Diabetes Care found. The bleak figures have made the work of The Diabetes Foundation, a Hackensack-based non-profit, even more critical. “Since the pandemic began, use of our programs has increased by almost 30 percent. People are interested in learning how to self-manage diabetes. In addition, due to job loss, use of our emergency services, such as medication assistance and supply assistance has increased,” Executive Director Ginine Cilenti said. Founded in 1990 by business leaders and healthcare professionals from North Jersey, the foundation serves individuals at risk and those living with prediabetes, Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes. The mission, Cilenti said, is to help people “get on track and stay on track with their diabetes care for free.” When the foundation first opened its doors, its main offering was medication assistance to individuals who were uninsured and underinsured, Cilenti said. Besides access to medication like insulin and injectables, The Diabetes Foundation expanded over the years to link patients up with monitoring supplies, like glucometers, test strips, sensors, Continued on page 44

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pods and A1c screenings. It also offers robust education programs, as well as support groups for a range of age groups, she said. Three decades later, The Diabetes Foundation remains the only diabetes non-profit in New Jersey focused solely on patient care and has helped more than 10,000 individuals and their families across the state. COVID ‘Has Scared’ Diabetes Managing diabetes during the pandemic era can be frightening, but Marlene Korngold, the foundation’s participant healthcare solution’s director, believes it has underscored the importance of proper self-care and access to necessary resources and support. Korngold, who developed gestational diabetes three decades ago and has been living with the disease ever since, said, “COVID has scared many people with diabetes. It certainly is only natural. To get sick with diabetes is adding insult to injury.” “Diabetes is so tough to manage and getting sick makes

blood sugars rise — that makes you feel much sicker than the average person,” she added. After joining The Diabetes Foundation eight years ago, Korngold’s firsthand knowledge of what life as a diabetic is like has benefited the hundreds of people who have sought out the organization for assistance. “I totally understand this disease, as it has been almost 30 years for me,” the Wayne resident said. “I am a very positive person and love to help others gain good control. Having diabetes and understanding the complexities and finding resources is so hard.” “I find that I can empathize and take each person by the hand and given them the best guidance that most could never find,” she said.

A Growing Epidemic Despite advances in treatments, the prognosis for people with diabetes has grown worse as the number of patients with the disease has climbed in recent years. An increasing shift toward sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets has caused more people to develop diabetes earlier, which has offset improved therapies and stalled progress toward reducing diabetes-related deaths and issues. And, because Type 2 diabetes, the most common type, is closely linked to obesity, incidence has been soaring over the past decade. Of the 34 million people in the U.S. living with diabetes, more than 90 percent have Type 2. Many of those individuals are having a harder time managing their diseases and experiencing complications sooner. Less consistent access to affordable medical care has only made a difficult situation even more challenging. Between 2015 and 2020, the number of U.S. deaths attributed to diabetes increased from 79,535 to 101,106, according to the American Medical Association.

In New Jersey, diabetes is a leading cause of death in the state, ranking eighth among most common causes, and an estimated 9 percent of the adult population — almost 627,000 residents — have the disease. According to state data, diabetes rates are the highest in southern counties, including Cumberland, Salem and Atlantic, followed by Middlesex, Essex, Bergen and Ocean. After peaking at 2,500 deaths annually in the early 2000s, New Jersey’s number of diabetes-related fatalities have started to trend downward over the past five years to about 1,900 each year. Being Proactive, Not Reactive Many medical experts have pointed out that the U.S.

While it is Wotring’s hope that you “dive into” her paintings, she recognizes that it is highly personal and subjective.

healthcare system is more focused on short-term treatment, rather than long-term prevention and management. At the Diabetes Foundation, the organization believes the right education and healthcare team, along with a healthy lifestyle, can make all the difference.

“I think there needs to be a moment of emotional connection to the painting when you view it, and that’s what I hope to create for my clients and viewers,” she said.

Only about 39.2 percent of New Jersey adults with diabetes have ever taken a self-management class, far below the national average of 53.9 percent, according to a report from the state Department of Health.

Wotring, who moved quite a bit growing up, discovered art when she moved to a new school during her senior year of high school in Fairfax, Va. It was actually her art teacher who recognized her ability and pushed her to apply to art school.

To reach a greater number of New Jersey’s diabetes, The Diabetes Foundation has made strides to expand beyond Bergen County to ensure individuals are equipped with the best possible knowledge and resources of how to live healthy lives, Cilenti said. “We have been reaching out to healthcare entities, faith-based organizations, nonprofits and associations county by county in areas where diabetes is most prevalent to discuss our services and build referral partnerships,” she said. Cilenti said, “Diabetes is a complex condition that

“I was the new kid in a new school,” recalls of difficult her senior year. can be emotionally, physically andWotring financially to manage. Accessing care and remaining diligent ongoing given “Most of thewith students hadcare been dothe challenges are obstacles our participants are experiencing.” ing art for years so I was a little out of my element, but somehow it came For more information about The Diabetes naturally to me.Foundation, My teachervisit really https://diabetesfoundationinc.org.

26 | Fall 2021

Meet The Grewals

One of Bergen County’s Most Influential Movers and Shakers By Kevin Czerwinski

alpreet Grewal-Virk seems like your average suburban mom as she sits outside Starbucks in Montvale, nursing a coffee and holding a conversation on a variety of topics.

That she’s wearing a striped pullover and faded jeans with her hair pulled back in a casual manner only enhances the aforementioned image. While the 38-year-old Upper Saddle River resident certainly can play the part of that suburban mom, the conversation she’s having paints a far greater picture of who she is, where she comes from and where she is going.

Grewal-Virk is one of Bergen County’s most influential movers and shakers. She’s an activist and a fundraising wiz, all of which isn’t all that surprising when you stop to consider the family from which she comes. The Grewals have been one of New Jersey’s most visible and well-known families during the last 50 years. Whether you’re talking about politics, philanthropic ventures or simply helping people in New Jersey, chances are that Grewal-Virk, her father Pritam Singh Grewal or her cousin Gurbir S. Grewal [the former Bergen County prosecutor and New Jersey Attorney General who is now the director of enforcement for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, also known as SEC] have been involved. The Grewal family resume is nearly endless when describing the contributions that have been made both professionally and personally during the last half century. While each of those contributions is significant in its own way, it is clear that much of what the Grewals have accomplished has been the result of a love for Sikh religion, what it professes and the culture that accompanies it. “Our religion plays a large part in the balance of who we are,” Grewal-Virk said. “It teaches us to be humble and grounded and help whoever we can. That is why Sikh men wear a turban. Because you should always be to point out a Sikh and ask for help. My father was the founder of the Sikh temple in Glen Rock because he understood the importance of religion and its foundation in our lives. We are taught to be humble and don’t ever think that you are anybody [important]. We are taught to just do good.”

Left: Balpreet with husband Yogi & their 3 children. Right: Balpreet with father, Pritam.

Grewal-Virk spends nearly all of her time trying to adhere to that credo. She is the vice president of Community Outreach and Engagement in the Northern Region for Hackensack University Medical Center. Grewal-Virk works to educate the local community on a variety of subjects, ranging from disease prevention to COVID-19 to the harmful effects of vaping to informing the public about the opioid epidemic. And that’s just her day job. She is also the New Jersey commissioner and co-chair of the Gateway Development Project, which is working toward creating critical rail infrastructure projects between Newark and Newark and Penn Station, Continued on page 48

which includes the construction of a new rail tunnel underneath the Hudson River. Additionally, she is the vice chair of the Bergen County Democratic Committee, which means she spends her days and nights balancing her professional commitments with her family life, performing a juggling act that leaves her with little if any free time. Grewal-Virk is married with three young children – ages 7, 4 and 1 – and credits the support of her husband, Yogi, for much of her availability to do what she does. Grewal-Virk’s ability to keep every together seems effortless but then again, she had an excellent teacher. Her father’s reputation as a tireless worker is well-known and it’s a trait she inherited. Growing up, she watched and marveled at all her father accomplished and learned from his successes and his failures. Pritam Grewal, who passed away at the age of 73 in 2020, came to America from India in 1972. He settled in Westwood and immediately went to work building a business and helping his community. He was the founder and president of ADPP Enterprises, which remains family-owned and continues to operate a series of service stations in New Jersey. He spent time as

a professor of mechanical engineering at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, was a prominent figure in support of the Democratic Party in New Jersey as well as being an ardent supporter of law enforcement. When a 2012 accident left him a quadriplegic, he could have retired. Rather, he continued to work, spending his time helping others and making a difference in his community. The love and respect he had for the staff at Hackensack Medical Center for the care they provided him resulted in the creation of the Pritam Singh Grewal Good Samaritan Award – established in his honor – to “recognize staff of the medical center who demonstrate compassion and unselfishly help others.” “All throughout my childhood, there were always blueprints on our table,” Grewal-Virk said. “He would show me, this is what we are building on Route 17 or this is what a gas pumps looks like. He was always sharing his plans with me. And when I did finally know what was going on, I would visit construction sites with him, travel with him, meet with town engineers or personal engineers for whatever project he was working on. It was usually two or three a year and almost every day after school I would sit with him learning. “I was so close to my dad. He was also a professor and

The Grewal Family and Governor Phil Murphy with members of Hackensack University Medical Center, Joseph Sanzari, Robert Garrett, Ro Sorce & Mark Sparta at the unveiling of the Pritam S. Grewal Mural.

the most important thing in life to him was education, education, education. He always told me that it was the only thing that will help propel you in life. He believed in formal schooling, but also to have an understanding of the world. I was always keen on learning about whatever he was involved in. In large meetings, he would have me sit right next to him. Even when I was really young, I was always interested.”

her father had been in an accident.

Grewal suffered his injuries in a car accident on Route 17 in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy. He had opened one of his service stations for first responders so they would be able to get to work after the storm had devastated large parts of the region. Grewal and Grewal-Virk were both there that day pumping gas but he left early.

Everyone does seem to call Grewal-Virk for one reason or another but that’s only because she is so effective at what she does. The regard for her and her father was never more evident than in June when a mural was unveiled at the Hackensack Medical Center memorializing Grewal on the one-year anniversary of his death. The ceremony was attended by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and Gurbir Grewal. State Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker

Shortly thereafter Grewal-Virk received a phone call that

“He dealt with that injury to the day he passed,” she said. “He still went to work every day and was active politically. Instead of him hosting events, though, I would host them. He would love it because I would have to speak. That’s how it really changed after he got injured. It was almost like a relay race. He passed the baton to me.”

Continued on page 50

along with Congressman Josh Gotthough, andalso hasinvited. been on this journey ever since. theimer were

what can be a successful career.

“Ifresco, knew Iwhich wantedwas to do this,” Grimaldi said. “I had The commissioned an eye-opening moment at Ithaca by the Grewal family and painted bywhere I realized I wanted to develop famed artist Cortney Wall, pays homageup-and-coming to Grewal and artthe selflessness he ists and write their displayed throughout his life. It features was in the hissongs. words,I “Dream big, work hard, anymiddle school thing is possible.”band and played jazz band in high “The mural wasschool. my idea,” Grewal-Virk I started writing said. “I wanted to do something for him when he I was about 12 time at Hackbecause spent so much as far as songs go. ensack. He was there It sometimes for a wasn’t until Ithamonth because of his issues.” ca that I dove into making music.” The mural pop serves not only as a reminder

“There are so many talented people who don’t get the opportunity to do this,” said Grimaldi, who added that someday he would also like to teach. “I had no family in the business when I started. I kind of want to be the person I wish I had when I got into the music world. That, mixed with writing for the major players, is a cool balance. I want to write more hits and grow until this [his work] is super sustainable. This is not an easy thing at all.”

of what Grewal meant to the commuGrimaldi nity but alsosaid whatthe Grewal-Virk has acend goal is get that complished, stepping out of her father’s one big shadow to song, createturn her own legacy. While it into five orwhen 10 she simply looks there are times It may not be “an songs andmom then enjoying a quiet likebig a suburban easy thing” overall but right now everything for Grimaldi ride the momentum that success will bring. He loves cup of coffee, she continues to prove appears to be smooth like butter. working with young artists who have yet to have their that she is so much more. Grewal at the unveiling of his father’s mural in June 2021. big breakthrough, helping them lay the Shivi foundation for

50 2021 32 | Fall

Holiday STyle Guide

FASH•ION NOUN

a popular trend, especially in styles of dress and ornament or manners of behavior. All looks available at Boutique 811, Franklin Lakes.

Fashions Fade. Style is Eternal.

Be bold.

YOU CAN HAVE ANYTHING YOU WANT IN LIFE... IF YOU DRESS FOR IT. —EDITH HEAD 56

1. CELEBRATE THE GOOD TIMES 2. REPEAT

I DON’T DO FASHION. I AM FASHION. —COCO CHANEL

“Being well dressed hasn’t much to do with having good clothes. It’s a question of good balance and good common sense.” —Oscar de la Renta

Style by Soneca

‘Tis The Season For Holiday Trends By Soneca Guadara ‘Tis the season to be jolly and bright! People are celebrating the fact that we are finally out and about. Whether you are sipping on some hot chocolate or having a champagne cocktail, the consensus is that you deserve a killer wardrobe this holiday season. It’s official: pack up your sweats. However, one thing we all did take note from this past year that carried over to this holiday season is that comfort is key. Here are a few of holiday trends to be on the lookout for this season. In Living Color It’s all about optimism and the reopening of the world. Every designer has made an array of outfits that are brimming with bold shades of vibrant color. In fact, it’s an instant mood-booster. Designers have embraced the palette on the runway, including Moschino, Rodarte, Prada and many others. Think red, yellow, fuchsia, green – you name it! It’s all about color.

Mini Dresses It’s all about thigh skimming dresses, which celebrate the drift towards maximalism this season. Now is the perfect opportunity to go all out on this trend. Think loud prints, bold colors, skintight or fit and flare – there is something for everyone. Add a pair of slinky heels and a micro bag and you are all set to attend a chic holiday party. Going to a casual gathering? Pair with knee high boots and tights. You will definitely stand out and be on trend.

Mad for Plaid Plaid screams holiday fashion, and this holiday season designers have kicked it up a notch bringing this schoolgirl classic to a level of sophistication and glam. Try on a long plaid skirt paired with a turtleneck, or a pair of plaid/tartan pants with a chunky knit cable sweater.

Elevate Your Handshakes Elbow length gloves are the rave this holiday season. This trend will not only keep you warm, but it will elevate your whole look. It will lengthen your arms and add drama to any look by adding this versatile accessory to your holiday wardrobe. Wearing a pair of elbow length gloves will look great on a short-sleeved blouse.

Après Ski Calling all snow bunnies! Comfort is key and no longer do you need to find this sophisticated athleisure wear only for the slopes. You will be seeing this trend off the ski slopes and worn day into night.

Geometric Prints Geometric style is fashion making a statement, and it’s fun to wear. Not all geometric patterns are bold and high contrast. There are options that will flatter any body type. For instance, take a geometric dress topped with a bright cardigan and complete the look with nude heels. This look is great for the office or dinner after work. If you’re concerned that an all-over pattern like this one might look shapeless, simply add a belt at the waist to break it up.

Sequins This is one fashion trend that is always on point for the holidays. It wouldn’t be the holidays without wearing some sequins. So, whether it be, a sequin jacket, sequin leggings or your classic dress, you will be stylish and on trend.

Ruching Be the belle this holiday season brimming in feminine ruching details. What is great about ruching? It flatters all body types and gives your body a slimming effect.

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.

Social Holy Name Golf Classic The annual Holy Name Golf Classic was held at the Hackensack Golf Club. For more information, visit www.holyname.org.

Tony, Barbra and Joe Gandolfo

Gabriel Hanauer, Bill Huber, Perla Garcia, Rich Lee, Karla Romero

Erica Giuliano, Aline Frankian, Leon Temiz, Sonya Temiz

Ed and Judy Rebenack, Lorraine and Jack Cahill

Pam Ennis, Sam Fishman, Arielle Greenbaum Saposh

Arleatha Williams, Sister Antoinette Moore, Maureen Donohue

Lisa Futterman, Cedar Wang

Joe Giles, Sue Guliano, Kathleen and Dr. Joe Frasciano, Donna Vaglio

Maureen Munson, Randi Lourenco

Rick Labita, Matt LaMuraglia

Greg Mathis, Joe Coccaro, Kevin Pace, Brian McCourt

Mike Maron, Rich Grossman, Joe Parisi

Mike Maron, Cathy Davey, Jack Garrity

OJ Anderson, Mike Maron, Stephen Baker

Kathy Vigneron, Sue Antonelli, Carolyn Dentato, Roseann Bicocchi

Thomas Scudairi, Maranie Jaslowski, Robert Costa

Share the

Spirit of Giving! This year, join forces with other like-minded individuals and organizations, such as the ones that follow. Allow us to help you continue Bergen County’s long-standing spirit of caring commitment to improving our communities for all who call it home.

Center for Food Action of New Jersey

Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County

192 West Demarest Ave., Englewood

121 Carver Ave., Westwood

www.cfanj.org

www.habitatbergen.org

Mission: The organization’s goal is to prevent

Mission: Habitat For Humanity of Bergen County

hunger and homelessness and to improve the lives

was established in 1994 as an affiliate of Habi-

of individuals and families. It provides emergency

tat for Humanity International. Its mission is to

food, utility and housing assistance, advocacy,

provide decent, affordable homes for hardworking

counseling services and access to other commu-

Bergen County families.

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

New Concepts for Living 68A West Passaic St., Rochelle Park www.ncfl.net Mission: New Concepts For Living is a community non-profit 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 www.holyname.org/mscenter

Mission: The Multiple Sclerosis Care Center is New Jersey’s only non-profit licensed facility providing healthcare and related services to patients with MS regardless of their ability to pay.

CASA

Court Appointed Special Advocates One Bergen County Plaza, Suite 440  Hackensack Mission: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) For Children of Bergen County is an independent, non-profit 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.” —Author Unknown

Hope for Children Research Foundation

Sharsheret

1086 Teaneck Road, Suite 2G, Teaneck www.sharsheret.org

700D Lake St., Ramsey www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org

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

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

Pet ResQ, Inc.

24 West Railroad Ave., Suite 172, Tenafly www.petresqinc.org

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

Mission: Pet ResQ, Inc. is a s mall group of volunteers who believe that all living creatures deserve a change. They exist solely on donations and the efforts of volunteers and foster homes. They tend to rescue the elderly and handicapped pets that otherwise would not stand a chance at life.

—Anthony Robbins

Children’s Cardiomyopathy Foundation

Pony Power Therapies

P.O. Box 547, Tenafly www.childrenscardiomyopathy.org

1170 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah www.ponypowernj.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.

Mission: Pony Power Therapies is a non-prof-

it organization giving special needs and at-risk children and adults a unique opportunity to ride, care for and interact with horses. The riding and non-riding activities enhance individuals’ physical, social and emotional wellbeing in a safe, nurturing farm environment.

200 Club of Bergen County 560 Hudson St., Hackensack www.200club.org

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

Heightened Independence & Progress (hip) 131 Main St., Suite 120, Hackensack www.hipcil.org

Mission: Heightened Independence & Progress 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.

Julia’s Butterfly Foundation 637 Wyckoff Ave., Suite 285, Wyckoff 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 6-year-old Julia Marie Bommer, who passed away in 2005 following her brave battle against a rare kidney disorder. It is the foundation’s goal to pay tribute to Julia’s life by helping other children and their families struggling with the demands of their unique circumstances. The foundation is humbled by the courage and dedication of the children and caregivers they support, and consider it a privilege to provide financial aid, physical assistance and services to those who need it most.

Tomorrows Children’s Fund 30 Prospect Ave., Hackensack www.tcfkid.org

JDRF- Northern New Jersey and Rockland County Chapter

(Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund) 1480 U.S. Highway 9 North, Suite 306, Woodbridge www.jdrf.org/newjerseymetro

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 the community.

Mission: The Tomorrows Children’s Fund was founded by a group of committed parents to help their children and others like them with cancer and serious blood disorders. With the help of friends and supporters, today, TCF provides a warm, healthy and loving environment for children in treatment, a full scope of services to relieve 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 St., Englewood www.bergenpac.org

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

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County 64 Passaic St., Hackensack 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.

RBARI 2 Shelter Lane, Oakland www.rbari.org Mission: RBARI believes that all animals have a natural right to humane treatment, including proper care, respect and safe shelter. Their primary mission is to provide sanctuary while finding permanent, loving homes for the many animals that arrive in their shelter, including feral, elderly, handicapped and formerly abused animals. Animals in their care receive lots of love, shelter, food and medical care. RBARI adheres to a “no-kill” policy, giving animals an open-ended stay at a warm, safe place until loving homes can be found. adheres to a “no-kill” policy, giving animals an open-ended stay at a warm, safe place until loving homes can be found.

West Bergen Mental Health 120 Chestnut St., Ridgewood 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.

Beautiful Self, Inc. P.O. Box 241, Allendale www.beautifulself.org

Mission: Feeling beautiful and being able to love yourself is considered a luxury by most. Beautiful Self, Inc. is a unique therapeutic, transformational experience that peels back the layers of insecurities to expose self-love and acceptance by changing perception of inner beauty and power. Beautiful Self, Inc. believes a woman’s self-worth is essential to how she navigates and contributes to the community around her.

The Comedy Cures Foundation 122 East Clinton Ave., Tenafly www.comedycures.org

Mission: The Comedy Cure s 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.

The Community Chest

122 S. Van Brunt St., Englewood www.communitychestofenglewood.org Mission: The Community Chest raises funds and allocates them to agencies demonstrating the capacity to provide services to residents and provides coordinating and planning services in Englewood, Englewood Cliffs and Tenafly to support a range of needs, including hunger, afterschool programming, elderly care, career counseling for women, mental health services, environmental education and medical care to low-income pregnant women.

Bergen County Economic Development Corp. 1 Bergen County Plaza, Suite #440 Hackensack

Family Promise of Bergen County

100 Dayton St., Ridgewood 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

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

North Jersey Friendship House 125 Atlantic St., Hackensack www.njfriendshiphouse.org

YCS Foundation (Youth Consultation Services) 235 Main St., Third Floor, Hackensack www.ycs.org

Mission: AT YCS, the mission is to advocate, educate, shelter and care for children in need and their families so that each can further develop the skills, self-worth and hope necessary for success within their communities.

Mission: To maximize the independence and community living skills of persons experiencing severe and persistent mental illness, in order to reduce unnecessary hospitalization, secure other health and welfare services, as required by each individual referred to Friendship House for treatment, and to render assistance voluntarily in a safe, comfortable environment. Friendship House is a 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)

Jewish Home Foundation of North Jersey

Mission: New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera’s mission is: 1) to enhance the cultural life of the 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 youth to the joy of fine music; and 4) to provide performance opportunities to musicians and offer study grants to young performing artists.

Mission: The mission of the Jewish Home Foundation of North Jersey, Inc. 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. The purpose is to make healthcare, education, life enrichment, scientific and other charitable efforts available to the seniors, the elderly and infirm in the community, without regard to the individuals’ ability to pay.

10 Link Drive, Rockleigh www.jewishhomefamily.org

P.O. Box 3024, Fort Lee www.verismoopera.org

The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation 1701 Tower Drive, Edgewater www.djfiddlefoundation.org

Alzheimers Association

Mission: The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation, the first not-for-profit and only all-volunteer-run organization in the United States to focus on adult autism has been blazing trails since 2002. It creates paths leading to fulfilling and potential driven lives. The endowed programs at America’s leading universities, resources, and public policy/awareness initiatives are person-centered and derive from the needs and hopes of the diverse population of adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.

www.alznj.org

4690 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 300, Oradell

Mission: Alzheimer’s New Jersey, formerly known as Alzheimer’s Association, Greater New Jersey Chapter, provides programs and services to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, their families and caregivers who live in Bergen County and the 13 other New Jersey counties. Association programs and services include education and training, support groups, respite assistance and a toll-free telephone, HelpLine.

Adler Aphasia Center 60 West Hunter Ave., Maywood www.adleraphasiacenter.org

Mission: The Adler Aphasia Center’s mission is to be a vital resource to anyone whose life or profession is touched by aphasia. Aphasia is a language disorder that impairs the expression and understanding of spoken language, reading and writing. It occurs most often form a stroke or brain injury. This condition affects a person’s ability to communicate, but does not affect their intellect. Adler Aphasia Center provides people with aphasia the assistance they need in regaining basic communication skills, as well as their self-esteem and self-confidence, 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.”

The Office of Concern Food Pantry 55 West Demarest Ave., Englewood www.officeofconcern.com

Mission: The Office of Concern Food Pantry serves “the poorest of the poor” in northern New Jersey by supplementing their food and other basic needs with bags of food each week. Food packages contain canned goods and other non-perishables, as well as fresh poultry, fruit and vegetables and dairy products. St. Cecilia’s Church in Englewood sponsors The Office of Concern Food Pantry, 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 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each week, they move 4.5 tons of food from their warehouse to their front office for distribution to 750 needy families. The 501 (c)(3) organization is staffed by dedicated, unpaid volunteers, who operate through the generosity of foundations, businesses, churches, schools, community organizations and individuals.

—John Bunyon

Center for Hope and Safety 12 Overlook Ave., Suite A, Rochelle Park 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 Friends of the Hermitage, Inc. 335 North Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus 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.

Northern New Jersey Community Foundation (NNJCF)

Giants of Generosity, Inc. 201 Piermont Road, Suite #16 Cresskill, NJ 07626

1 Grand Ave. Suite 3, Englewood

Contact: D. Jane Chagaris Albanese Phone: 201-567-2622 Web: www.giantsofgenerosity.org Mission: Giants of Generosity’s mission is to

www.nnjcf.org Mission: NNJCF focuses on civic engagement,

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.

education, public health and the arts by working with local governments, school districts, businesses, non-profits and citizen groups to improve community life. Foundation partners identify and resolve regional problems and opportunities by sharing ideas, services and resources. The ArtsBergen initiative supports and encourages creative place making, the integration of arts and culture into an area to build community and boost the local economy.

Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey 300 Forest Ave., Paramus www.gsnnj.org

Advance Housing

100 Hollister Road, Teterboro www.advancehousing.org

Mission: Girl Scouting helps girls develop their full individual potential; relate to others with increasing understanding, skill and respect; develop values to guide their actions and provide the foundation for sound decision-making; and contribute to the improvement of society through their abilities, leadership skills and cooperation with others. The Girl Scouts Council serves one in every four girls in 61 Bergen County towns, over 13,000 girls. Girls, ages 5-17, meet in age-level groups on a regular basis or they may participate in short term activities, special interest groups, neighborhood activity centers or camping.

Mission: The mission of Advance Housing, Inc. is to expand the range and scope of supportive housing opportunities available to persons with psychiatric disabilities. In addition, Advance Housing, Inc. seeks to make similar options and services available to other individuals who are in need of supportive housing. The array of outreach services, designed to help people live independently and productively in the community, will exceed the highest standards of professional practice.

We’re Here for Them When Nobody Else Is

Xena

Auto

MERCEDES-BENZ E450 ALL-TERRAIN THE #1 REASON YOU SHOULD DITCH YOUR SUVS SUVS BY RICHARD POSLUSZNY

n a day and age where there’s been a significant shift to sport-utility vehicles across a great swath of buyers, the automotive world has changed. And, to be honest, I am not sure it’s for the better. To better meet demand, manufacturers of all stripes have adjusted their product portfolios. Why? To deliver what the people want. As the auto manufacturers tend to heavily rely on market research to determine what’s the best business case, this doesn’t always wind up being great. I wish they would take more of a Steve Jobs stance. “Some people say, ‘Give the customers what they want.’ But that’s not my approach. Our job is to figure out what they’re going to want before they do. I think Henry Ford once said, ‘If I’d asked customers what they

wanted, they would have told me, A faster horse!’ People don’t know what they want until you show it to them.” 76

And that’s why I am here to show you the Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain. Frankly, if more wagons were like this, I am confident no one would even bother considering an SUV or truck for their family hauling needs. Hear me out. Arriving in Florida, I was greeted with a dark red E-Class wagon. With a refreshed face, it is one of the best designs from the three-pointed star right now. It’s certainly not controversial or going to make an impression if you pull up to your neighborhood’s hot spot. That said, equipped with the Night Package — which switches out most of the chrome bits for blacked out trim — and 20-inch, AMG-designed wheels, my long roof test vehicle had attitude. This isn’t the goofy Family Truckster from National Lampoon’s Vacation, that’s for sure. What it is like, however, is a very well-tailored suit. It’s conservative and exceedingly sharp. Getting more comfortable inside, I quickly realized that Mercedes has developed an all-new steering wheel. And, as you’d expect, it’s higher tech than ever before. Now you can control the two massive, 12-inch displays that serve as your instrument panel (IP) and your infotainment display with the swipe of your thumbs over the two capacitive pads located at 3 and 9 o’clock on the steering wheel — the pad on the left controls the IP whereas the pad on the right controls the infotainment. It takes some getting used to in order to get the right feel for delivering inputs but after several days of use, I was a pro. For me though, the beauty of the All-Terrain isn’t all the whiz-bang technology. Don’t get me wrong, I really appreciate the trick ambient interior lighting, LED headlights and the Burmeister sound system — it’s all wonderful. True luxury is defined by several metrics, in Continued on page 78

my opinion: Space, comfort and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Joining me on my Florida adventure was my significant other and her sister. Traveling with three adults is not easy, especially when two of them want to travel with all of their belongings and I am 6’8 and around 300 pounds. That said, the E’s cabin had plenty of space in all directions and its cargo space swallowed up two full-size pieces of luggage, several duffle bags and a handful of personal item-sized bags. While I knew the cargo area was big, it still was a surprise to me just how much stuff could fit in the E450’s hatch. It turns out, I wasn’t alone. Although my SUV-driving travel companions were doubtful of the All-Terrain’s cargo space at first, they quickly became believers immediately after every piece of luggage fit without any compromises (e.g., we didn’t have to fold down the rear seats or unsafely obstruct rearward visibility). Where the Benz continued to shine, however, was in the arena of comfort. Equipped with optional heated, ventilated and massaging front seats, two out of the three passengers were in total bliss. Unfortunately, the rear outboard seats only benefited from optional heating, which isn’t exactly good news when you’re in Florida’s humid summer. That said, Mercedes’ massage function is the best in the automotive industry. No other manufacturer can match the intensity of the feature — it doesn’t feel like you just threw some crappy massage pad from Brookstone over your seat. Even better, the E450 All-Terrain is equipped with an air suspension. In our escape out of Miami, my wagon-hating passengers started to warm up to the Mercedes. One exclaimed, “Wow, this car is comfortable,” and the other noted, “You don’t really feel the bumps.” Exactamundo, ladies! Personally, I think the air suspension really makes the All-Terrain special. That’s because it feels every bit as good as the company’s flagship vehicle, the S-Class. When in Comfort mode it is perfect for around town motoring and even highway speed. But, if you prefer a touch more confidence when approaching triple digits, you can dial it up to Sport mode. Then, it firms up just enough without compromising the ride quality. Mercedes really is doing its finest work here.

Probably my favorite element of my test E450 All-Termiles on dirt roads. In most vehicles this isn’t exactly a rain was how well it handled NVH. Equipped with an brilliant situation since you can damage the underside of inline six-cylinder, turbocharged engine that produces your car. But with the All-Terrain, the button to raise the about 360 horsepower and nearly 370 lb.-ft. of torque, vehicle’s ride height came in handy. Phew! "It is so hard to keep them reading. Reading has become a challenge you wouldn’t know it. That’s because the engine is silky smooth. While you will hear the motor spinare up ifso you manyAdd in the extra having a longIt roof and in the modern age. There places youutility canprovided go tobynot read. push it, the sound is not overly intrusive into the cabin. I quickly found myself examining this E450 even closer. has fallen out of favor and becauseFrankly, theyI [students] haveone access to am considering adding to my fleet. so this much technology, reading pales by comparison. So film is a great Helping was the fact my test vehicle had the Acoustic Comfort Package, meaning, it boasted additional Why, you ask? Well, it’s this simple: It can do anything and platform.” sound deadening insulation as well as thicker glass to it flies under the radar. For me, that’s as close to perfect as reduce noise. It really pays off as at speed it sounds as it gets. though you’re traveling at 20-30 mph when in reality you’re doing three times that. You won’t stress your Make mine black on black, fully loaded and optioned with vocal cords in this E, that’s for sure. Once again, this is the 19-inch AMG wheels, please. a trait found in the flagship model.

Loccke said one of her inspirations for using film in the classroom is to provide her underclassmen with a reward. Allstudents in all, I was impressed Her are extremely always asking her ifduring there my is atime film that corresponds with the book so she uses the film as a payoff with the All-Terrain. Not only did it deliver with space, once the students have finished reading the novel. She shows as many as three movies a year to her underclasscomfort excellent control of NVH, did the long – usually prevent her from showing more. men. Timeand constraints – her classes areit also 40 minutes unexpected.

“A lot of what they read they read on their own [and not in class],” Loccke said. “The movie is a great way to proPower was more than adequate, which says something vide a communal feeling and it provides something coming from someone who regularly drives autos withthey can share together. You can have a discussion and share it and thethan movie somethingand we when all experience at the same time so it is very unifying.” more 600ishorsepower, in Sport mode you can have a giggle or two. During an Everglades

Such was the when the largest excursion wecase had to slowLoccke down toaddressed travel for about five classroom of her career on TCM.

the Sports Dr.

Hit The Slopes, Not The ER Ten Tips to Avoid Ski Injuries By dr. Michael gross

inter is almost upon us – just look out the window and there is no doubt of that. While you are dreaming about hitting the slopes, it is never too late to think about safety. Skiing is a high-speed sport that requires strength, endurance, balance, skill and coordination. Muscles involved are the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, abdominals and those of the lower back and arms. At highest risk are the joints of the lower limbs, which bear the brunt of the forces passing through the body while skiing. The knee joint is the most vulnerable joint while skiing, with the ankle joint, the wrist, thumb and shoulder girdle being the other joints commonly injured. Improvement in skiing boots and bindings protect the foot, ankle and the tibia from injury. Unfortunately, this results in the ground forces being transmitted to the semi-flexed knee. Skiing is generally considered to be a sport with a high injury risk. That said, recent advances in design of equipment, as well as technique, have resulted in a drastic reduction of risk. However, injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee and spinal injuries continue to occur at an alarming rate. Thumb injuries and shoulder are also common occurrences. When you are injured, seek medical attention. The best treatment, of course, is to avoid injury altogether. Presented here are ten easy ways to prevent injuries while you’re out on the mountain:

Prepare for a ski trip with a conditioning program. A physical conditioning program is very important in avoiding injuries on the ski slopes. Physical conditioning is vital for improved muscular strength, endurance, coordination and reflexes. Skiers should do exercises about a month-and-a-half to two months prior to heading for the ski resorts. Some good exercises to help prepare for the slopes include those which use similar motions. Swimming, bicycling and rowing use similar muscles and build endurance, as well as strength. Exercises which strengthen the thigh muscles are also helpful, such as squats. Most important are exercises to build core strength and balance. Don’t try to ski yourself into shape.

Stretching is important.

fit. Choose skis based on your ability, the type of skiing you plan to do and your weight. Get measured by a profesto ensure a good fit. Skis now are shorter and more Stretching improves your flexibility, another key ingrediOut of 500 applicants this year, sional Kothari was one of five who shaped like an hourglass than in the past. If you’re still ent in avoiding a ski injury. When you stretch, combine received Activism andyour Advocacy which is given hangingscholarship, on to your sentimental favorites, this is the year to both dry land stretching,aas$1,000 well as ski stretches with who have shown passion for skis and bootsto ongraduating once you are outhigh on the school mountain. seniors Con- update. centrate on stretching yourpolitical legs and core,or butcivil don’t forget social, change and then acted within their Choose poles for skiing that fit your height. To find the your upper body as well. Don’t forget to stretch when you communities. right size pole, stand in your ski boots and hold the pole get off the lift and are at the top of the mountain. A few upside down to the ground. Place your hand under the minutes of stretching before you turn back down, could be As for her recognition from the NSHSS, the humble teen said, honestly evenbottom knowofifthe I deserved basket“I(the round did piecenot at the pole) andit, conthe best investment you make all season. sidering there are countless youth activists that I look up to.” touch your thumb to the basket. Your arm and the pole should create a 90-degree angle. If the angle is more than Don’t drink and ski. 90support degrees, and you recognition, need a longer too,” pole. Ifshe theadded. angle measures “They are changing the world for the better and deserve the less than 90 degrees, your pole must be shorter. Don’t drink alcohol at lunch or on the slopes. Most ski

accidents happen theteacher afternoon. The effectsCountry of muscleSchool, believes Kothari is already an influential changemaker. Nicky Enright, aninart at Riverdale Purchase boots for skiing that fit snugly and offer proper fatigue – less strength and control – are increased by the based on your skiing ability. Novice skiers genconsumption alcohol. Contraryactivist to popular belief,more morethan support “Her work as of a youth-centered requires a combination of positive traits – her work is a calling, erally wear “soft” boots that allow for slower skiing while relaxation not always to your Avoid which she is answers louda benefit and clear; she skiing. is gifted in service and advocacy,” Enright said.boots that offer agility and advanced skiers choose stiffer alcohol while on the slopes. Save the drink for après ski by work well with speed. Find ski goggles that provide proteca fire in the lodge. Besides leading Take Action Inc. and creating art, Kotharition is also involved in herand school’s community, fromdeeply ultraviolet rays, wind sun glare. Loosening serving as an organizer of assemblies and panels, frontpage editor of theis newspaper and that founder of Take Action your bindings a common trick will help to avoid Choose the proper equipment. RCS, an offshoot of the larger non-profit. knee, hip and leg injuries. Skiers using incorrectly adjusted skis and bindings are

If youto already all the equipment you need, make sure he “Ishikaa is diligently world Consider while inspiring youth truly have engage with the issues they care about,” eight times more likelychanging to sustainthe an injury. ski it is well maintained and in even better shape than you are. said. conditions, ability and experience when choosing skis to buy. Buy skis and ski bindings together to ensure a proper

48 | Fall 2021

Take a rest.

up to the chin and drawstrings that can be adjusted for comfort and keep wind out. Be sure to buy quality clothThe highest risk of accident is after 3 p.m. on the third day ing and products. Dress in layers. Layering allows you to accommodate your body’s constantly changing temperature. of your ski trip. This is because muscle fatigue reaches its For example, dress in polypropylene underwear (top and peak 48 hours after you start your vacation. In general, recreational skiers on a skiing holiday should follow “The bottoms), which feels good next to the skin, dries quickly, absorbs sweat and keeps you warm. Wear a turtleneck, Rule of Three,” which recommends a stop no later than 3 p.m. each day, skiing not more than 3,000m each day and sweater and jacket. Be prepared. Mother Nature has a mind of her own. Bring a headband or hat with you to the slopes taking the third day off. as 60 percent of heat-loss is through the head. Wear gloves Don’t just rely on the rule of three, however. If you do feel or mittens (mittens are usually better for those susceptible to tired while skiing or snowboarding, it’s important to listen cold hands). to your body and take breaks as necessary. If you’re on the trail, pull off to the side – never stop in the middle, below Wear a helmet. a jump or blind rollover. If you can, head to the closest lodge for water and a snack, and rest for a little while beRecent research has shown that the use of a helmet reducfore heading back out. es the incidence of any head injury by 30-50 percent. That the decrease in head injuries, however, is generally limited If you’ve really overdone it on the slopes in the morning, to the less serious injuries, such as scalp lacerations, mild don’t overdo it and push yourself to ski all day. There’s concussions (Grade I) and contusions to the head, opposed nothing wrong with quitting a little early if it helps prevent to more serious injuries, such as concussions greater than a serious injury. Go get a massage or use the hot tub to Grade II, skull fractures, closed head injuries and the like. soothe those tired muscles instead. Besides, there are fewer There has been no significant reduction in fatalities over the people in the resort hot tub in the mid-afternoon anyway. past nine seasons even as the use of helmets has increased to 57 percent of overall usage among skiers and snowboarders and to as much as 43 percent within the population at Take a lesson. greatest risk – experienced young adult male skiers and From the novice to the most experienced expert, an hour snowboarders. with an instructor at the start of your trip can be a good This trend emphasizes the importance of not increasing idea and a great way to prevent injuries. A qualified ski risk-taking behavior simply because you are wearing a instructor can help you improve your skills, so that you can safely ski more challenging terrain. Bad habits learned helmet. It is important that any helmet be properly fitted early on, are difficult to resolve and a good instructor can and that it doesn’t uncomfortably restrict your vision or hearing. Read the helmet manufacturer’s information and identify them and help correct them. Proper form and learn about what level of protection a particular helmet will technique are essential to avoid injuries. provide. All models are not the same and do not provide the same level of protection. It is important to choose ski runs that you can ski on successfully. If you select a run that is too difficult for your level of expertise, you are more likely to suffer an accident. Fall correctly. Ask the ski instructor to describe the various runs so that you have a clear idea of what to expect, and what level of You are going to fall; falling while skiing is inevitable. Since expertise is required. If you are skiing in unfamiliar teryou are going to fall eventually, learn to fall correctly. In a rain, an instructor can help identify the runs that are most fall, keep your arms forward and your hands over your skis appropriate for you, and point out potential rough spots. if possible. Keep your arms away from your body; don’t keep them tucked in. Don’t fully straighten your legs when you fall. Try and keep them bent. After a fall, don’t try to get up Dress well. until you have stopped. When buying ski wear, look for fabric that is water and wind resistant. Look for wind flaps to shield zippers, snug cuffs at wrists and ankles, collars that can be snuggled

endure these difficult times at school and in our nation.”

Ski smart and aware.

Dr. Michael Gross is the founder of Active Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, a part Summit Health, Working with town officials and school administrators, Kothari spearheaded the now creation ofoftwo gigantic murals Observe the National Ski Areas Association Code listed where Memorial he a clinicaland director of Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. against gun violence that were displayed in two municipal parks, Ruckman. below and share with other skiers the responsibility for a Gross is an associate professor at the Hackensack great skiing experience. Meridianher School medicine and instead the chiefofofmurals. Two Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Kothari has transformed ideasofinto paintings Orthopedic Medicine Hackensack University of those pieces, “Gender Inequality in Politics” and “Drowning In HighSports School,” were at recently featured in The -Always stay in control. Bronx Museum of Art. Medical Center. -People ahead of you have the right of way. -Stop in a safe place for you and others.

She is also working a mural Riverdale School that highlights the importance of racial justice activ-Whenever starting on downhill or at merging, lookCountry uphill and ists throughout history. Her creation will also convey that “the fight is far from over,” Kothari said. yield. -Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment. -Observe warnings and keep off closed trails. ‘Her Worksigns Is Aand Calling’ -Know how to use the lifts safely.

This fall, the high school senior plans to attend Yale University, where she hopes to continue her social justice Skiing can be acontinuing fun and healthy pastime. time work. Besides to grow Take Taking Actionthe Inc., Kothari aims to produce more murals that convey “the plight and making the effort to prepare, trying to observe a few and accomplishments of marginalized people.”

simple rules and being smart enough to know when you’ve done enough can make all the difference. Some injuries She admits that juggling her schoolwork with advocacy work can be “difficult at times,” but that running Take are unavoidable, but most can be prevented. Hopefully, Action Inc.itinerary and mural-making activities she But enjoys. your next won’t includeare a visit to the ER. if you do have bad luck, follow up and get the proper care “Not only I passionate when youam return home. about them, but also, they have the potential to empower and inspire myself and others

to create transformative change,” Kothari added. Continued on page 48

46 | Fall 2021

Eats

American Bulldog Coffee Roasters It’s Not Just About the Coffee Here By Richard Posluszny

remember it just like it was the other day. I had been strolling along in downtown Ridgewood checking out the local scene when I was presented with something allnew that I hadn’t noticed before. It was a coffee shop on North Broad Street. But there was a certain something about American Bulldog Coffee Roasters when I first set eyes on it that made me take note. Perhaps it was the way “SPECIALTY COFFEE” was written boldly on the large picture window, or maybe it was the old-school look and feel of the space. Being shy, I decided to return another time as the business was busy as a beehive. As an early riser, I embarked on my first trip to Bulldog on a crisp Saturday morning. First in, first out is my modus operandi. As someone who typically abstains from coffee, it’s not a necessity for my daily routine — it was a rare treat for me. Arriving to find just one other patron in the shop, I was able to take it all in.

and fresh baked goods that hangs in the air. In the middle of the walkway that leads to the main counter was a truly massive American Bulldog. Looking awfully cozy and tired, I made sure to carefully step over the intimidating dog. Looking a bit closer at her face I had a realization: This dog’s mug is the company’s logo. “Cute,” I thought. Standing in front of the counter and observing two large chalkboards, I am sure it is a coffee lover’s dream scenario. As a novice, I quickly decided on a small vanilla latte. Then, the polite, baseball hat-wearing barista got to work. While my drink was being prepared, I curiously looked behind where I was standing — and into the kitchen — to discover a tall, blonde woman working feverishly on a tray of more fresh baked goods. From my passing glance I gathered it was a series of delightful-looking scones. Wandering into the seating area where I noticed the dog was working its way into a peaceful slumber, I looked closer at the decorations and details. Every piece from the vintage light fixtures to the original ice cream parlor tables to the solid wood benches dripped of charm and made the space feel warm.

Once you cross through the doorway you’re transported into an antique paradise. There’s no doubting that there’s a carefully curated vibe here. But Bulldog’s visual appeal is completely overwhelmed by the scent of strong coffee

“Vanilla latte!” was barked and it was my time to sample

this shop’s coffee. Settling down in the quieter half of the storefront, I worked my way through my bold and flavorful beverage. By the time my cup was empty I knew that I found a gem. It was from that point on that I had one destination in mind whenever I’d feel like a caffeine-laced treat: Bulldog. This began a seven-year dance where I would stop in early on weekend mornings to pass the time, write a profile about a unique person or the latest exotic automobile, or simply show a friend or relative the best coffee in the area. Eventually, I’d subvert my introverted ways and I’d make small talk with the aforementioned owners, Gadi Gilan and Maleigha Liburdi, and visit each of their other locations in Chestnut Ridge and Ramsey. The one thing that continues to shine through is the team’s dedication to their craft, which ultimately yields a jaw-droppingly good product. Whether it’s American Bulldog Coffee Roasters’ drinks, sweet or savory treats, cakes and more, you know you’re being delivered something that has blood, sweat and tears in it — not literally, of course. Having been in the food industry north of 35 years, the Chestnut Ridge-based duo know good eats. That’s why it sources 100 percent Arabica beans from across the globe. By purchasing natural, organic beans from a small

Continued on page 86

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Hamburg, New Jersey

network of providers that offer highly investigated microlots, quality is kept front and center at Bulldog. According to Gadi, “We wanted to keep a narrow focus. That’s why we don’t offer a million items on our menu and we only work with several suppliers. We purchase the raw materials and we make everything in-house. For example, the baking that we do here makes it difficult to find a wholesaler that can deliver the quality we’re looking for.” He’s not wrong. Maleigha explained in detail how everything within American Bulldog Coffee Roasters’ four walls comes down to the ingredients. For example, Bulldog’s baked goods do not use gums or starches and there’s less than 10 ingredients per item. All of the flour is sourced from Lake Champlain and is whole wheat, spelt flour — this is easier on your digestive system. And, as the business maintains its high standards across the board, Maleigha continues to experiment in the kitchen in order to develop new, inventive offerings. She proudly boasts that “My ice cream melts.” After an arduous, three-year process of figuring out how to produce natural ice cream that does not leverage corn syrup or any stabilizers, she was successful.

To me, this is what makes American Bulldog Coffee Roasters special. There’s an authenticity that runs through this business from the top to the bottom. It starts with the owners and their respective passions: People, natural and organic foods/drinks, music, antiques and more. In a small way you can see how this works its way into things like the Ridgewood location’s diamond-patterned tin ceiling that was originally from Detroit. Most obviously, it is expressed in the products that Gadi and Maleigha serve their patrons and are enjoyed across northern New Jersey. If you haven’t popped into one of their locations, you should. But be warned. You may become a regular, like me.

Social NJ Sharing Golf Outing NJ Sharing Network Foundation held their annual Golf Classic and Pickleball Tournament at the Ridgewood Country Club. For more information visit: www.njsharingnetwork.org

Rich DeLuca, Brian McCourt, Joe and Matt Coccaro

John Johnson, Kevin Gallagher, Tom Pryor, Brett Budenbender

Elisse Glennon, Bill Gascoigne, Howard Nelson, Gary Brewster, Tony Marchetta

Aaron and Jack Gilchrist, Sharyn Sawczak

Dr. Patrick and Nancy Buddle, Jane Buckiewicz, Dr. Mike Aquino

Charles, Jennifer and Brooke Matar, Jay Roman

Stephen Orenchuk, Phil Kolm, Bob Evans, Jim Kirkos

Andrew and Don Jones, Joe Biehl, Rob Jones

Pat Barbone, Phil Battista

Stephen Fletcher, Bennett Rothenberg, Stuart Geffner

Dan Drobnis, John Allen

Jenny Godnick, Patti DiSanto

Joe Dawson, Tom Fair, Jeff Hellman, Victor DiSanto

Melissa Schnipp, Mike Horton, Caren Feldman

Nancy Bird, Cheryl Wolf, Michael Rizzo

Darrell Terry, Adam Kopelan, Alex Beguero

OK, so this one isn’t so traditional, but when you’re stuck in a fantasy football rut, sometimes breaking tradition is exactly what you need. Summer may be long gone, but nothing refreshes us like a Mexican beer. Although many of you will quickly turn to Corona, we feel Montejo’s authentic Mexican taste did this recipe justice. Or maybe it was the beer talking...

Social CareOne at Ridgewood Avenue CareOne at Ridgewood Avenue held a networking event, “Let’s Get Together,” to celebrate fall. For more information, visit www.care-one.com.

Irish Robles, Andre Bolukbas

Chiquita Matthews, Jennifer Van Dam, Michelle Marceca, Mallory Erickson

Andre Bolukbas, Eric Bischoff

Cipora Finestone, Jack Adelman, Stephanie Bulger

Seth Finkelstein, David Stamberg

Tara Zahorenko, Steve Romano, Michelle Marceca

Caitlin Wallen, Calvin Bynum

Rita Grandelis, Cheryl Mucha

Anne-Marie and Violet Gauntlett

Olivia Boden, Jessica DeMichino

Jackie Sinclair, Nathalye Ribeiro

Alexa Margulies, Myra Sanchez

Anne-Marie Gauntlett, Michelle Marceca, Cartney Ezyk, Myra Sanchez

Jimmy Teehan, Lou Cardone

Brianna DeGeorge, Tamara Kahater

Michael David, Chantel Ayoub

Last Laugh

typically use this page to lament with the highest levels of satire my issues with the world. This isn’t to say that there’s nothing to laugh about this year, but I thought we’d change it up a bit.

Reflect. Reflect on the year that passed. Analyze it. Think about the ups and downs. Reflect on your mistakes, your failures, and your successes. If everything happens for a reason, what is it?

Learn. Learn what you could have done differently. Learn how you can become better at something. Learn to become a better person.

Dream. Dream for tomorrow and for the fortunes that await. Dream that next year will be better than the last.

Love. Love now and not later. Love the people who make you happy and the people who don’t. Each person has their own battle. Love them for it. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season, Brandon Goldstein

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100

BC the Mag Holiday 2021

Articles inside

LAST LAUGH

Art

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Meet The Grewals

EATS

AUTO

THE SPORTS DOCTOR

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