BCtheMag Fall '23 by Bergen County the Magazine

1 ADULT & # 1 CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS IN NJ #

HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER We’re honored that U.S. News has ranked Hackensack University Medical Center the number one adult and children’s hospitals in New Jersey, with national rankings in six specialities: J Neurology & Neurosurgery - NJ’s only nationally ranked program J Urology - NJ’s only nationally ranked program J Pulmonology & Lung Surgery - The best in NJ J Orthopedics - Ranked Top 50 in the nation J Geriatrics - The best in NJ J Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery - The best in NJ To learn more visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Rankings. 2

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Table of Contents

22 NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT ‘A Place Unlike Any Other’ Institute For Educational Achievement Unlocks Youngsters’ Potential

34 ART Stitching From The Heart Michelle Fleischer Crafts Custom Clothing & Accessory Keepsakes

46 58

64 BEAUTY Hair’s Best Friend: Danielle Rinaldi 66 STYLE BY SONECA Break The Rules Five No-Fail Ways To Wear A White T-Shirt 58 BEAUTY Protect Those Luscious Locks

44 Up For The Task Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Promotes A Safe and Secure Environment

70 AUTO The Tale of Two Toyotas The All-New GR Corolla and Prius

52 FASHION Fall In Love with these looks from Boutique 811

78 EATS ‘Fall’ In Love With Family-Favorite Autumn Recipes

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All of us for all of you. 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 600 providers welcomes patients at more than 140 office locations throughout northern New Jersey. SERVICE AREAS:

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Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

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Gastroenterology (adult & pediatric) Geriatric Medicine Gynecologic Oncology Gynecology Hematology Infectious Disease Integrative Medicine Interventional Cardiology

Primary Care

Women’s Health

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

A Letter from the Editor

He leaves his dry-cleaning tags all around the house, and I leave my hair in the shower drain. He squeezes the death out of his toothpaste tube, and I bought myself my very own toothpaste so I can roll it systematically. He packs for vacation the morning we’re set to leave, and I am packed and ready at least a day in advance. He stops for a stranger strained on the side of the highway to render assistance (it’s the volunteer firefighter in him), and I speed by convinced that they are a serial killer in waiting. Somehow these two people found each other at 16, got married, had two sons, and are celebrating their tenth wedding anniversary. For 10 years, my groom’s gestures of romance have shown up in everyday things, like returning home from an early morning fire call with a cup of Starbucks coffee in hand for me or taking our sons out back to play baseball to allow me some quiet time to enjoy my current read. It’s not that my expectations have been lowered in the 10 years we’ve been married, it’s just that they’ve changed in a way that suits my life now. It’s taken me some time to realize that marriage isn’t meant to look the same through every phase. Raising little children changes it; building careers changes it; growing changes it. I think we often feel like we’re struggling because our expectation is to always feel the same in every phase, and I’ve come to the conclusion that that’s just not humanly possible. So, as we celebrate 10 years, cheers, to my groom. Cheers to every phase we’ve concurred and every phase that’s yet to come. Cheers to more little moments where our children get to watch us love each other. I want them to see how much I love you. I want them to see how fun you are with their mom. I want them to see us laugh, play and lean into each other. Here’s to more small moments that are the biggest.

Always yours,

Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo 6

| Fall 2023

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Fall 2023 Publishers Sharon & Steven Goldstein Associate Publisher Brandon Goldstein Editorial Director Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo Art Director BMG Marketing Fashion Director Candace Kristin Contributing Writers Courtney Gilroy Soneca Guadara Susan Larson Richard Posluszny Kimberly Redmond

Bergen County The Magazine is published six times a year. Mail all editorial and advertising materials to 297-101 Kinderkamack Road, Suite 135, Oradell, NJ 07649 or email materials to steven@bcthemag.com. For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5196. For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com. Copyright 2023. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.

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Englewood Health Foundation Golf Outing The Englewood Health Foundation held their annual golf classic at the Ridgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.englewoodhealthfoundation.org.

Bill Barretta, Jordan Love

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Alonzo Adams, CC Sabathia, Emmet Dennis

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Center for Hope and Safety The Center for Hope and Safety held their annual golf outing at Edgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.hopeandsafetynj.org.

Pete Sowinski, Dawn and Tyler Feldner

Erez Rousseau, Ben Sheldon

Anita Allen, Paul Rypkema, Dan and Dave Meredith, Michael McCarthy Adrian Mesa

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Hackensack Meridian Health Golf Outing Hackensack Meridian Health held their annual golf outing at Ridgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org.

Charles Matar, Bill McLaughlin

Ralph Corrado, John and Steven Salemme

Sam Wright, Bob Costa

Tom Scudieri Jr., Tom Scudieri, Vinny Civitello

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| Fall 2023

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Valley Hospital Auxiliary Golf Outing The Valley Hospital Auxiliary held their annual golf outing at Ridgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.valleyhospitalfoundation.org.

Tony DeFranco, Mike Bisi

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| Fall 2023

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Valley Leadership Reception The Valley Hospital Foundation held their annual Leadership Reception at the Indian Trail Club. For more information, visit www.valleyhospitalfoundation.org.

John Vivenzia, Sandy Carapezza, Elizabeth Vivenzia

Bettina Daly, Janet Hunt, Andrew Gatto

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| Fall 2023

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

A Place Unlike Any Other

Institute For Educational Achievement Unlocks Youngsters’ Potential By Kimberly Redmond

or nearly three decades, the Institute for Educational Achievement has been changing the lives of youngsters with autism, helping them unlock their potential so they can become independent, productive and happy. Located in New Milford, the private, non-profit educational program provides highly individualized instruction based on the science of Applied Behavior Analysis, an evidence-based approach designed to help children on the spectrum learn critical academic, language, play and social skills.

so they can work on a one-to-one basis, according to Executive Director Dr. Eric Rozenblat. Each instructor also receives additional training from three trainers, as well as Rozenblat and Principal Dr. Donna De Feo, on working with students. The school’s adult life skills program – which was launched about five years ago for learners over the age of 21 – has 11 individuals enrolled, as well as an assistant director, trainer and seven life skills coaches.

Within its educational program for those between the ages of three and 21, IEA serves 28 students, all of whom are matched with a trained instructor

Given the level of support, commitment and dedication the IEA’s staff and administration provide, Rozenblat said students are hitting milestones, big and small, on an almost daily basis.

| Fall 2023

into the public school setting and go on to graduate college or whether that learner remained with us through their adult years, the memories of each goal that was achieved, no matter how small it may seem to others, makes each day at IEA memorable,” he added. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New Jersey now has the third highest rate of autism in the country. In 2020, 1 in 34 children, or 2.9 percent of 8-year-olds, were identified with autism spectrum disorder, while 1 in 40, or 2.5 percent of 4-year-olds, were diagnosed, the CDC found. A lifelong disorder with no cure, autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. Some people with ASD require significant support in their daily lives, while others need less support and some live independently.

Rozenblat, who became executive director in 2015, described the school as “a place unlike any other.” “It is a warm environment where it is the perfect blend of intervention based upon the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) paired with compassion and care. Our staff are very hard-working individuals who care greatly about each learner we serve. I am proud of the hard-working staff who work tirelessly to ensure each learner leads a happy, productive, and independent life and is willing to put in the extra effort to ensure each learner meets his/her maximum potential,” he said. “Each learner is successful; whether that learner graduated from IEA and was able to transition back

In recent years, Rozenblat believes the public is starting to gain a greater understanding of autism, thanks to a combination of better education by those who diagnose, better diagnostic criteria and parents that are educating themselves. It’s also leading to better outcomes due to intervention being received earlier, he said. A real turning point occurred in 1980, when autism was first officially recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM). Then, as newer editions of the DSM were published, the criteria of meeting the autism diagnosis broadened and was further defined. Rozenblat explained, “Today, there are much better-defined criteria and tools/markers used to identify autism. By way of comparison, in 2000, the rate of autism was 1 in 166 nationally. Today, that rate is 1 in 36 nationally.” Continued on page 24

However, the journey towards awareness, acceptance and advocacy for all individuals with autism is a continuing effort. During the 1990s, there were not only fewer educational opportunities for children with autism, but educational services were not individualized to meet the needs of each child, Rozenblat said. “I stress the term ‘individual’ because each person because each person is an individual with individual strengths and goals and education should be tailored to that person. Back then, children with autism were sometimes not properly diagnosed or even misdiagnosed, which often lead to them being grouped together with other individuals (what we now refer to as a multiply disabled classroom), which did not result in individualized instruction,” he explained. Due to the scarcity of dedicated programs for children with autism – and an even smaller number that provided the level of intervention their children needed – in 1995, a group of parents from Bergen County decided it was time to take matters into their own hands.

Diane Lento, a founding parent of IEA, said after her daughter, Kate, was diagnosed with autism a year prior, the educational programs in existence were “primarily ‘catch all’ to serve children with a wide variety of disabilities” and “very few were specifically designed to serve children with autism.” “Very few were specifically designed to serve children with autism. Even fewer offered the proven science-driven intervention, based on the science of Applied Behavior Analysis, that could provide the help and the outcomes our children deserved in order to live their best lives possible,” added Lento, a current member of IEA’s board of trustees. “Moreover, those very few schools that did offer this specialized type of education, had waiting lists for openings that would have taken years. We knew that with any diagnosis, early intervention was the key, and we could simply not afford to wait,” she explained. For the Fisher family, Jeffrey and his ex-wife Michelle had limited educational options for their son, James. After hiring a private teacher special Continued on page 26

| Fall 2023

izing in applied behavioral analysis after learning more about the approach, the Fishers were astonished at the change in their son’s behavior after only a month. “I paid $50,000.00 per year for three years for James’s private ABA sessions since Oxford insurance did not cover that expense at that time. We then tried to get James admitted to the only ABA school in existence at that time, the Alpine Learning Group, but James was rejected by…the director, citing his severe aggressive behavior,” said Dr. Fisher, who also serves as a board trustee. After becoming connected with each other through Dr. Arthur Rothman, a Hackensack neurologist, and his wife, the Lento, Fisher and Brady families decided to start a new ABA school in the area. From there, the three families dove into a lengthy and complex approval process with the state. 26

Lento said, “Once we had cleared many hurdles and passed many of the requirements, we still needed a facility in which to house the school. At that point, finding a place to rent that also met the safety requirements was an almost insurmountable task. Rentals were scarce, and were either unsuitable, or astronomically priced for our fledgling school.” It was then that they approached the First Congregational Church of River Edge to inquire about church school space that was underutilized during the week, she recalled. “At a specially called meeting, we posed the idea to members of the congregation of renting us several of their classrooms. They unanimously welcomed us with open arms and were thrilled to be a part of not only helping the school get off its feet, but also helping children with autism. Had it not been for their acceptance, generosity and willingness to take a leap | Fall 2023

of faith, IEA would not be here today. They gave us our start, and our first home, for which we are forever grateful,” said Lento. “With much help and support from family, friends, and community members, we were able to open our doors and begin serving students in September 1996 – approximately 9 months after beginning the approval process,” Lento said. Five years later, IEA began the 2001-02 academic year in a brand-new facility in New Milford on River Road. The school hit another milestone in 2018, when IEA opened a building on campus to serve students who “aged out” of educational programs. Rozenblat explained, “The Founding Executive Director, Dr. Dawn B. Townsend, and the Board of Trustees recognized the importance of the continuity of services those who needed such services in their adult years. As a result, the Adult Life Skills Program was formed and is now entering its 12th year of operation. The goal of the program is for each learner to gain and sustain meaningful employment, while still focusing

on expanding their repertoires across every area of life.” IEA’s educational program is funded through the New Jersey Department of Education, while the adult program is supported by the Division of Developmental Disabilities. However, those resources do not fully cover the costs associated with operations, which makes fundraising “a critical component of our program because of the type of individualized instruction each learner receives,” Rozenblat said. As a result, IEA hosts several events a year, including a casino night each spring and a mail campaign during the holiday season, to help raise money. The school is also gearing up for its 28th annual fall golf outing, which is scheduled for Oct. 2 at Hackensack Golf Club in Oradell. Rozenblat said, “Every dollar raised directly impacts each learner in the program, and as such, donations are vital to the success of IEA and the students who rely on our services. Through the Continued on page 28

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generosity and support of our contributors, IEA will continue to help individuals with autism overcome the challenges they face every day.” As IEA prepares to mark 30 years, its founders are confident in the direction the school is heading. Michelle Densen Fisher, a founding parent and trustee emeritus, praised “the highly skilled leadership and commitment to ongoing professional training and development” as qualities that set IEA apart from other autism intervention programs.

“We have been blessed with two world-class Executive Directors, Drs. Dawn Townsend and Eric Rozenblat. They exemplify the very best in the application of scientific behavioral techniques to modify dysfunctional activities and educate individuals of all ages afflicted with autism. The staff is mesmerized by their clinical and scientific skills applied with loving humanism, and far-reaching, extraordinary management abilities,” said Dr. Fisher. “I am rewarded by seeing our students and learners acquire social, practical and academic skills which enrich their lives and that of their families,” he went on, adding, “On a personal note, my heart soars like an eagle when James spontaneously says, ‘Dad, I love you’ and when he kisses me hello and goodbye.

“IEA’s founding executive director emeritus, Dr. Dawn Townsend, and executive director, Dr. Eric Rozenblat, are prominent leaders in autism intervention,” she said. “These two exceptional professionals have a fierce commitment to supporting individuals with autism, their families, and the autism community at large.” Densen Fisher also applauded the school’s staff members, describing them as “highly skilled and well trained.” “Like the students and adults IEA serves, skill acquisition and mastery are an ongoing goal,” Fisher said. “The program is learner-focused and all curriculum is individualized. If a skill isn’t being mastered, IEA staff ask, ‘How can I teach this better?’ There is an extraordinary growth mindset and feedback model in place to ensure success.” Dr. Fisher echoed the sentiment, saying that IEA’s “consummate professionalism and dedication” to its mission makes it standout. 28

While she is “admittedly bias,” Lento believes “there is no place like IEA.” “You can feel it from the minute you walk into the building and see the teachers and staff with the children,” she explained. “The teaching is based on cutting edge science and is highly individualized to fit each student’s needs but it is much more than that. The love, compassion and caring that the staff have for the students is obvious.” “All the great science in the world would be meaningless without the love. At IEA, they see our children for all they can do, not just their deficits, and commit themselves to doing whatever it takes to help them gain the skills they need to succeed every day,” she said. | Fall 2023

Lento continued, changed Kate’s life, and social and pre-academics to prepare for his our skills dedication to sustainability, such him as recycling, Although quite “IEA small,has bees are intensely connected that entire family, It has been a role God-in journey education and for lifeand outside of school.” green in construction initiatives reducing our carto of theour environment andforever. play an important send a lifeline to us. That said,aren’t the best thing of the most challenging bon footprint,” Mosser explained.parts of having a the and pollination cycle. And, if they doing well, “One about being a founder of IEA, and our continued child with autism is finding ways they can safely be it isn’t a good sign for the rest of the ecosystem. involvement in this amazing organization, is that included family community The beesinforage faroutings, and wide, pollinatingevents flowersand and Frank and increased I get to bedevelopment, a part of something so much the Oradell parents plants upactivities,” to two miles from their hives.said. Then, they Between climate change and day-to-day bigger than ourselves.” the continued use of harmful pesticides, the world- return to the colony to begin honey production. As part of its approach, IEA staffers incorporate reguwide bee population is on the decline. Going forward, Lento knows IEA will continue to larHoly home visitsChief to support the entire family, well as Name of General Surgery Dr. as Ron White help ways to leader, navigateweallareaspects famsaid,them “As “find a healthcare alwaysoflooking In so an many effortfamilies. to try and restore the bee population, help more successfully with effective communicanew opportunities to enhance the health and wellthe practice of beekeeping has been on the rise and ilyforlife “Itrooftop is thatapiaries knowledge makes so cities, grateful andofmanaging challenging behavior,” said the being our community.” havethat sprung up us in feel many like tion toNew be even smallFrancisco part of something York,a San and Seattle.that will give Crowes, who added, “We are grateful to be part of this hope and help to families who, like we once were small community makes such a difference in we’re the “With honeybee that numbers decreasing worldwide, when our precious daughter was their diagnosed, of families like ours.” Hospitals have also been doing part todesperimprove lives proud to not only help the honeybees but harvest a atehoneybee for both health, those things,” said. sweet, healthy treat for our employees and commuand, inshe turn, the environment. nity,” he said. “Beehives can also serve as a welcome For and number SuzanneofCrowe, IEAacross has given their distraction for our hospitalized patients, many of A Tim growing hospitals the country 4-year-old son Trent “an opportunity to thrive and have joined the rooftop hive movement in recent whom have a view of the hives. The distraction and reach own fullseveral potential – gaining skills, years,hisincluding across North life Jersey: The connection with nature also assist in healing.” Valley Hospital, Chilton Medical Center and MorWhite went on, “Also, bees are one of the most importristown Medical Center. ant pollinator species for our ecosystem and honey “Establishing the rooftop beehives is in line with containers beneficial probiotics to aid in health. Continued on page 50

| Spring 2023

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The Valley Hospital Auxiliary Saddle River Valley Branch The Valley Hospital Auxiliary Saddle River Valley Branch presented Fashion For Philanthropy, their annual luncheon, at The Tuxedo Club. For more information, email auxiliary@valleyhealthnews.com.

Lisa Herrmann, Tiffany Ramirez

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Lynn Holuba, Margaret Scillie Knapp, David Bohan

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| Fall 2023

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Stitching From The Heart Michelle Fleischer Crafts Custom Clothing & Accessory Keepsakes By Kimberly Redmond

Photos by Fox Images Photography 34

| Fall 2023

rom hats to jackets and baby blankets to backpacks and clutches to sweatshirts, there’s almost nothing that Michelle Fleischer can’t transform into something special and unique. Over the past year, the Haworth wife and mother of two has built a bustling e-commerce venture turning ordinary clothing and accessories into customized keepsakes with handsewn embroidery, appliques and patches. After learning hand embroidery as an outlet during infertility treatment, Fleischer fell in love with the craft and wound-up starting Embroidery Babes on a whim. Now, she has become the go-to for anyone looking to make a gift extra memorable. While taking on the role of entrepreneur wasn’t necessarily a direction she expected to go, Fleischer, a self-described risk taker, couldn’t be more excited over how it’s evolved and where it’ll go. After the she and her husband Scott had their first son, the couple was unable to get pregnant again after a year of trying and began pursuing fertility testing. However, the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak put that on hold for a few months. As a perfectionist, Fleischer recalled feeling lost, confused and hurt, especially when she’d see other women becoming pregnant. “This is one thing where no matter how much you try and how many different tools you use, it just doesn’t happen. It was really heartbreaking and difficult to deal with, so I needed an outlet for that,” she explained. “I’ve always been super crafty, and I was painting at the beginning of COVID. But I’d never done any embroidery before, and I picked up a kit online. Once I started, I found it was really cathartic for me.” “My first kit was a rainbow, for my miscarriage… After I finished it, I knew I wanted to do more because it helped me slow down by brain and focus on something else besides all the things that I couldn’t deal with,” Fleischer said. “I became kind of addicted to it. Then, we started doing IVF and once we found out we were pregnant and we were far enough along, I started making embroidery hoops for my daughter’s room.” Continued on page 36

After the family welcomed their new arrival, Fleischer jazzed up some of her son’s old clothes with embroidery and patches to make them more suitable for a baby girl. “That’s when people started asking me where I bought it,” she said. “Then, I made an Instagram and started posting things I was making for my daughter. I think the first order I had was somebody who followed me on social media and said, ‘I need a baby gift; can you do a jacket for me?’” Following that first order in August 2022, more and more customers began asking Fleischer for customized items. Within a month, the organizers of Haworth Day contacted Fleischer to see if she’d be interested in having a booth at the annual event, which, of course, she agreed to. “It’s been really cool how I’ve been able to put it all together, but it wasn’t anything I really thought would become a business,” said Fleischer, who spent about 36

a decade in corporate training, holding positions for companies including Buzzfeed and Macy’s. After becoming a stay-at-home mom, she picked up work as a paralegal for her father and then doing social media management for women’s apparel retailer Tapestrie in Westwood and Englewood. Growing her business in Bergen County has been a great experience, as well. “People are super supportive of hyperlocal and super supportive of mom-owned, women-owned businesses. There’s a lot of people who come here from the city – a lot of families with young kids, which I’d say is definitely my market. Parents and grandmas, too,” said Fleischer, with a laugh. Among her favorite aspects of running Embroidery Babes is getting to know her customers, as well as collaborating on the designs to make sure “everybody absolutely loves everything that they get.” “I always hold my breath every time I ship something out because I hope they love it as much as Continued on page 38

| Fall 2023

I love it,” said Fleischer, who admitted, “It is hard sometimes to part with something after you’ve made it if you really, really love it. But you know it’s time to part with it and give it to somebody who’s going to love it and enjoy it.” While it can be challenging at times to be a onewoman show, handling everything from customer service to packaging to shipping to supply chain management, Fleischer said it’s worth it if her creations make people happy.

“It’s such a nice thing to think about what the items could wind up meaning for people. I once did a newborn hat and they sent me a picture of the baby in the hospital wearing it. And I thought it was so cool – I’m part of that crazy memory for them,” she shared. She’s also been blessed with an “amazing” community of customers who keep returning, as well as referring others, to Embroidery Babes. One customer praised Fleischer’s creations as

Continued on page 40

| Fall 2023

miles dirt roads.soft In most vehicles thisin isn’t exactlyplayers a Probably my favorite element of my test E450 All-Termostoncommon tissue injuries hockey HIP INJURIES “incredible,” saying, “HerNVH. attention to detail discuss the struggles she faced with conceiving REJUVENATE YOUR HEALTH SAY GOODBYE TOitNEGATIVE THOUGHTS AND LIMITING situation since you can damage the underside ofand rain was how well handled Equipped with an and brilliant include a groin pull and a hip flexor pull. A severe her love that goes into each piece she makes is wonconnect with other women in similar situations. Part of creating better mental health can be found car. can But be with the All-Terrain, the button raise the inline six-cylinder, turbocharged engineare thatsusceptible produces to your BELIEFS strain a nagging injury that limitstoperformance The hip joint and groin muscles derful,” while another expressed gratitude overvoice her vehicle’s ride height came in handy. Phew! aboutall360 horsepower andin nearly 370 lb.-ft. of torque, in what’s on our plate and how we move our outside bodies. We have that voice our heads. The little throughout the season. A direct blow to the injury due toso thehard mechanics of the skating stride. Some Reading "It is to keep them reading. has become a challenge you wouldn’t know it. That’s because the engine is silky “kindness, efficiency and high-quality work.” “To be honest, it’s not just about the money it’s likecause takinga abruise walk (contusion) around yourofneighborthat tells us we are not soft goodtissue enough, smart in enough or Small of the steps hip can the–iliac of the most common injuries hockey Add in the extra utility provided by having a long roof and smooth. While you will hear the motor spin up if you the art, the andclass feeling like I’m doing in the modern age. are so many places youconnections can go to not read. Itbursitis). hood, signing up for a yoga or dancing around deserving enough. When you There get aa negative thought, crest (hip pointer) orexamining trochanter (trochanteric players include aisgroin strain and hip flexor strain. I quickly found myself this E450 even closer. push it, the sound not overly intrusive into the cabin. “I also ait,lot of out pop-ups and with the something Fleischer said. house canmeaningful,” increase have serotonin, the feel hortake notedoof dismiss it, of forgive itcollaborations andand let it go. Next has fallen favor because they access togood“SharOff-season strengthening and dedicated stretching Frankly, I [students] am considering adding one toEmbroidery my fleet. local businesses, which I really like because it’s great ing my story is so important to Babes mone. Eliminating sugar, incorporating more seareach for a after new practice positive are thought. One to that makesthese you Avoiding injuries in hockey has to do with properly before and important so much technology, reading pales by comparison. So film is a great Helping this was the fact my test vehicle had prevent the Acousto help each other said Fleischer, who launched because it wouldn’t have smart been anything if it wasn’t sonal fruits and vegetables and drinking more water feel good. Focus onout,” what is good andtowhat working fitted making the injuries. In addition, a direct blow the isoutside of Why, youequipment, ask? Well, it’s this simple: Itplays, can dofollowing anything and tic Comfort Package, meaning, it boasted additional platform.” awell networking group with fellow small business ownfor the pain and the breakdown I went through.” are simple steps to enhancing your health and relievin your life. Surrounding yourself with positive and the a lot of luck because is perfect inherently flies under radar. For me, that’s hockey as close to as sound deadening insulation as well or as thicker glass tobursi- it rules the hip can cause a hip pointer trochanteric ers. ing anxiety. people who lift you up and support you is also key. reduce noise. It really pays off as at speed it sounds as it gets. risky. Understanding how the injuries occur, recogtis. Hockey pants with reinforced padding over these “It’s athem reminder that, every you the can best see though you’reareas traveling 20-30 mph when nizing when of they occur andday, seeking vulnerable may athelp protect them.in reality Additionally, Fleischer has become known for her something really challenging and turn it into this Make mine black black, loaded optioned with you’re doing three timesMEDITATION that. You won’t stress your INCORPORATE A DAILY PRACTICE treatment willon help youfully enjoy the and game at whatever workshops, which range from “Sip & Stitch” events wonderful vehicle to help other people,” she said. “I the 19-inch AMG wheels, please. vocal cords in this E, that’s for sure. Once again, this is Like any practice, you must want to do it in order to achieve results. It’s really very simple and easier than level you are playing. KNEE INJURIES to charity fundraisers to home parties to private have a lot of people reach out to me, whether it’s on ayou trait found in the flagship model. think. Beginning a meditation practice requires only your slight willingness. Your desire for more peace

Loccke said one of her inspirations for using film the classroom is toor provide her underclassmen withthey a reward. groups. She plans onand launching kid-friendly proInstagram after class…reach out to say were in life, less stress better focus and so in many Theyour medial collateral ligament is during most susceptible to other benefits is all you need to get on the path. Start All in all, I was extremely impressed my time Dr. Michael Gross is the founder and director ofI Her students are always asking her if there is a film that corresponds with the book so she uses the film as a payoff grams, including birthday parties, bartomitzvahs and going on through the same andThe wanted to talk. by taking 5-10 minutes each morning close your eyes, focus your breath andthing be still. thoughts will a sprain because ofNot theonly leg position – pushing off the with the All-Terrain. did it deliver with space, Active Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. Heit, is and the once the students have finished reading thegonovel. She shows as many as three movies ahad yeargone to her underclassgraduation celebrations, this winter. didn’t know anyone who through come that’s natural, just let–them and return insideand edge of the skate blade and contact to the to your breath. Try counting four breaths in and four comfort and excellent control of NVH, it also did the chief of sports medicine at Hackensack/Meridian men. Timeout constraints – her classes 40also minutes long – usually prevent from showing more. we were in pandemic, so begins there was support breaths through the nose. Youare can try repeating a mantra likea her “om” or “peace withno me.” Start outside of the knee. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) unexpected. University Medical Center. Dr. Gross has written The classes are quickly becoming popular, with group really for me and it was so isolating. I just adisruption daily meditation practice and stroll into this season with a spring in your step. and meniscus tears (torn cartilage) can also articles and chapters sports “Aattendees lot of what they read read to onsocialize their ownand [andlearn not in numerous class],” Loccke said.to“The movie is aifgreat way to it.” profinding it a they fun way don’t want anyone feelbook that way I canon help Power thancommon adequate, in which says something occur was but more are less hockey than in other injuries. He has taken care of some of Bergen vide a communal feeling and it provides something they can share together. You can have a discussion and share acoming newFlaherty skill, as well aswho support a Bergen-grown entreTracy is afootball, certified integrative health and lifestyle coach; meditation teacher; and the author and founder of Be Well Nourished. She it from as someone regularly drives autos with sports such soccer and basketball. County’s athletes, from weekend and thethan movie ishorsepower, something we all at practice the same time it meditation isfinest very unifying.” preneur. Forsomore information about Embroidery Babes including integrates meditationand intowhen herexperience health coaching as well teaching one-on-one and in-group settings.– warriors more 600 in Sport mode to professional athletes. Dr. Gross can be reached You or cantwo. find her meditations on the Insight timer app andplacing on her an Instagram pagebooking @wellwith_tracy. order and a private event, party or you have a giggle During an Everglades Thecan mechanics of the skating stride makes the hip by email at drgross@activeorthopedic.com. Such was the case when Loccke addressed the largest classroom of her career on TCM. For Fleischer, the business has also enabled her to workshop, visit embroiderybabes.com or email excursion had to slow down to to travel for about and groinwemuscles susceptible injury. Somefive of the embroiderybabes@gmail.com.

| Fall 2023

Social

Behind the Seams Eva’s Village held their annual Behind the Seams Fashion Show at Bottagra Restaurant. For more information, visit www.evasvillage.org.

Ryan and Stephanie DePersio

Joe Mazza, Rob Vicari, Darren Magaro, Ralph Lauretta

David and Nikki Brodsky

Paulina and Jorge Hernandez

Lisa and Justin Rattner

Zinka Ramdedovic, Rachel Chris Pariot, John Cusack, Meredith Hopken Celentano, Mike Kaufman

Denise and Mia Stevens

Diane Sclafani, Dana Cardone

Brookyn and Jamie Knott

Rob Festa, Marilyn Tolerico, Brando Ibarra

Kevin Modica, Nick Biondi

Samantha, Olivia and Darren Magaro

Pietro and Laine Barberi

Rob, Myriam, Roxanne and Sal Segona

| Fall 2023

Alyse and Laurence Liebowitz

Antoine Boyd, Tamika Williams, Joe Mazza

Mark Crevina, Kevin Modica

Devin Miller, Colleen and Peter Schuh, Jalen Wade

Ryan Sullivan, Sandy Celentano

Sal And Lena Lauretta

Rob Vicari, Joe Mazza, Jamie Knott

Grace Mariani, Joe Mazza

Marc and Elena Del Castillo, Erica Roman

Christine Figioulo, Emily Moran

Anthony and Darya Avadisian, Ralph Lauretta

Christine Modica, Ari Kattowski

Kim Gerena, Maria Chomenko

Ted Sharifian, Yoon Park

Susan Lindemuth, Lisa Ratner, Alexia Canonico, Lauren Porter

Ralph Lauretta, Marilyn Tolerico, Patti Lauretta

The Lauretta Family

Up For The Task

Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Promotes A Safe and Secure Environment By Susan Larson

| Fall 2023

ost of us who live in Bergen County already know it is one of the safest counties in the State of New Jersey. We enjoy low crime rates, state of the art forensic abilities, immediate 911 response and emergency care. This is due to the hard work and vigilance of law enforcement, and in particular, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, which enjoys a unique partnership with local law enforcement agencies and strong community relationships. The BCPO performs a variety of functions, including investigating the most serious crimes in Bergen County through its Major Crimes, Special Victims, Cyber Crimes, Financial Crimes and Special Investigations Units, as well as working with local, state and federal agencies in its Narcotic Task Force and Counterterrorism and Intelligence Unit, and proseAll things considered, there’s no question at the end cuting difficult cases involving sexual assaults, homiof the day: new Range is a and top-tier comcides, drug The trafficking, biasRover crimes domestic petitor with wonderful tech, solid powertrains, and violence. an excellent cabin — in terms of quality and space. But that’s not all. It also runs the Bergen County That said, you doa have to be mindful of on the Accredengine Police Academy, CALEA (Commission you select trim levels Agencies, as pricing Inc.) reaches into itation for and Lawthe Enforcement accred-

ited and comprehensive learning center for new recruits and current officers. The Academy graduates an average of 142 recruits each year, and each recruit is immediately ready to begin agency training. The recruits go through an approximately 22-week physically demanding and mentally challenging training program. In addition to the traditional recruit training curriculum, the all-day schedule includes classes in crisis intervention, defensive tactics, community engagement, use of force and officer resiliency. The training academy also offers professional development and compliance training programs to the nearly 3,000 active officers in Bergen County in one of the most successful and influential training institutions in the State of New Jersey and the nation today. The BCPO also operates the Bergen County Regional the stratosphere, fast.isIt’s easy to go SWAT team, which comprised of north some of $165,000 the most if you’retrained not paying it werethat my highly and attention. technicallyFrankly, skilled ifofficers hard-earned dollars, I’d invest in a six-cylinder long its training and assistance is often sought after from wheelbase SE. That’s because the six’s engine feels other counties. The team is tasked with executing like a more natural fit in the big daddy and high-risk search warrants, responding to Range barricades, the added space getsand twoisthumbs from me. hostage situations on the up forefront of active Continued on page 46 shooter training.

| Spring 2023

With such an enormous amount of responsibility and risk, who is taking care of these officers and the staff that supports them? Recognizing that the link between public safety and agency success is officer wellness, the BCPO leadership is pushing towards a more progressive work environment that assists officers in doing the job they need to while maintaining their health. This includes increased focus on worklife balance, physical and psychological support, job satisfaction and making people a priority. There is no doubt that the intensity, volume and inherently stressful nature of the work that is performed by the detectives, prosecutors and support staff can have a significant effect on mental and physical wellbeing. Statistics show officers report suicidal thoughts more than the general population, have a higher risk of a coronary event than civilians of the same age and abuse alcohol twice as much. According to Chief of Detectives Jason Love, the BCPO is in the business of investigating and prose46

cuting crimes in addition to keeping our communities safe. But such work comes with an inordinate amount of stress, pressure, and it calls for a great deal of resilience. Love believes that leaders must make sure to create an environment that is supportive, flexible and encourages employees to take responsibility for their own mental and physical health and work as ambassadors within their units and squads to promote the same. “It is a fine line when trying to create a culture change as you must navigate the present as it is, with an eye towards the future. That is why Prosecutor [Mark] Musella and I are trying to meet our employees where they are and provide opportunities for them to move forward towards better mental and physical health,” said Love. The world is changing very rapidly, and it is especially true within law enforcement. Staying fit and mentally healthy is not a luxury in this line of work. Continued on page 48

| Fall 2023

To learn more visit NewBridgeHealth.org or call 201.225.7130

“We owe it to the communities we serve to show up physically able and emotionally sound, despite some of the very difficult realities we deal with and witness,” said Love. “We also work very hard to stay in close contact with community leaders and on the streets because we recognize having good relationships with our community also means increased officer job satisfaction and safety for both officers and community members.” To meet that end, the office launched a program called “Six Weeks of Wellness” that provided opportunities to try different workouts at various facilities, nutritional counseling, mindfulness classes and time off for preventative well care visits. The office also prioritizes community engagement programs that give the officers and those they serve a chance to converse, understand the issues they face and hopefully appreciate the role each plays in creating safe communities. Ultimately, the goal of this leadership team is to create a culture and environment that supports and prioritizes employees’ physical and mental health. This cannot be done in a single generation, so a training program is currently being developed and will help ensure this culture shift takes root among the next in line future leaders.

| Fall 2023

Social

Carl Inserra Leukemia Fund Golf Outing The Carl Inserra Leukemia Fund held their annual golf outing throughout Bergen County with cocktails and dinner at The Venetian. For more information, visit www.carlinserraleukemiafund.org.

Doug Hamel, Bill Schlosky

Joseph Guzman, Harry Helmstetter, Alberto Aspiazu

Christian and Andrew Infusino

Salvatore and Joseph Asaro

Dawn and Chris Rotio

Alex, William and Xavier Quiles

Dan Politi, James Dorey, Mike Casalino, Steve Dorey

Jim Kourgelis, Joe Gandolfo

Craig Grybowski, Jim Madanci

Joe Coccaro, Michael Zola

Herman Dodson, Scott Tricarico, Ramy Ali

Liz Casalino, Sabrina, Alexandra and James Dorey

Joe and Donna Heyer

Gail Gordon, Robert Garrett, Ro Sorce

Pat Sullivan, Hannah Sullivan, Karen McClatchey

Vera Kovalski, Rich Chamberlain, Donna Vaicels

| Fall 2023

Robert Garrett, Larry Inserra

Dean Pialtos, Kevin Pace, Matt Langer

John Murphy, Chad Reiber, Michael and Dr. Dante Implicito

Victoria and Fred Santaite

Samantha Young, Laura Dupont, Mia Spain

Ron and Mary Onorato, John Sweeney, Michael Bergson

Grace Mariani, Joe Mazza

Larry and Inez Inserra

Larry Inserra, Laurie Clements

Jeff Schechter, Dave Wolf, Richard Jr. and Rich Chamberlain

Chip Cronauer, Marie Inserra, Ro Cronauer

Lawrence Inserra Jr., Katie and Matt Strazza

Bonnie Inserra, Tom Alvarez

Lisa Futterman, Jeff O’Brien, Lawrence Inserra Jr., Kathleen Davis

Megan Weinman, Lindsey Inserra, Hannah Sullivan

Peter and Linda Hanson

Style guide

FALL IN LOVE

This season is all about layers, textures, and pops of color - even in more subdued seasonal tones. At Boutique 811 in Franklin Lakes, Owner Marilyn Tolerico dresses some of Bergen County’s most fashionable ladies, and can create the perfect look for any of this season’s many occasions. All Looks Available at Boutique 811 | 811 Franklin Lake Rd., Franklin Lakes 52

| Fall 2023

Social

The Macallan Scotch Tasting and Cigar Dinner Brandon Goldstein hosted the Macallan Scotch Tasting and Cigar Dinner at The Brick House to benefit Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc. 4

Jason Ronchi, Matt Lasala, Ryan Young

Caroline DePeri, Stephanie Luke Sudol, Steve Nuzzo, Kirsten Klepacki, Palumbo, Steve Wanderling Gabriella Garces

Michele and Joe Conte

Marty Lisanti, Jason Gillesheimer

Tom Linehan, Kevin Martinez

Trae Minicucci, Kyle Tafuri, Jose Lozano

Dan Peters, Tank Daniels, Joe Procidr, Dellin Betances

Gio Giannela, Matt Lasala, John Calandriello, Robert Guidetti

Ralph Delelonardo, Steve Lasala

Andrew Forsyth, Dennis Kalaf, Billy Kobert

Jason Ronchi, David Landskowsky, Ryan Young

Clara Kanuft, Michael Rosenberg, Samantha Slater

Sharon Goldstein, Michele Conte

Caroline DePeri, Stephanie Joe Procidia, Rich Nuzzo, Joe Gratkowski, LaBarbiera Jr., Dan Peters, Kirsten Klepacki, Richard LaBarbiera Maddi Barbarini

| Fall 2023

Jimmy Mirance, Gordon Lorenxon

Luke Sodol, Kevin Schenone, Nigel Domer, Rich Loreto

Donnalee Corrieri, Erin Myers

Alex and Eva Reizner

Robert Williams, Amanda Raniero, Ryan Cohen, Chuck Benigno

Michael, Diane and Brad Chessin

Brandon and Steven Goldstein

Sublime Stars Entertainment

Bonnie Inserra, Tom Alvarez

Donnalee Corrieri, Steven Goldstein, Erin Myers

Jerry Iannone, Trae Minicucci

The Timepiece Collection & Bremont

Lou Piscitelli, Laurie Kydon, Tim Yingling

Jeff Kalaf, Samantha Slater, Paul Marcos

Jerry Silberman, Jordan Sharon Goldstein, Nicole Wright, Richard Schackner and Diane Chessin, Michele Conte

BEAUTY

Hair’s Best Friend: Danielle Rinaldi By Courtney Gilroy

et me let you in on my best kept secret: Danielle Rinaldi.

While I’ve known Rinaldi and have been seeing her as a hairstylist for years, she was first introduced into the industry from her grandmother. Over the years, Rinaldi realized how much passion she had for art and how creative and crafty she was. She always loved to draw, and it helped with her love for this industry by creating a passion to make women feel beautiful. She emphasizes “lived-in” hair in her work, which allows clients to enjoy great hair with less upkeep.

| Fall 2023

Rinaldi takes the time to truly listen to each client and help them achieve their dream hair. Some of her favorite services to provide include balayage, highlights, extension and makeup. Rinaldi is certified with Bellami hair extensions. Although she specializes with volume weft and hand-tied extensions she still offers other methods, such as K-Tip & I-Tip. I personally have been getting my color and extensions done with her for years. I love the way she keeps my hair healthy, even when I change my color very often. She’s given me many products that I fell in love with while on my journey from dark to light hair. Some of her favorite hair product lines are Kérastase, Truss Professional and K18 Hair. She always recommends her clients to do weekly hair masks, along with the right products to style with. A few of her go-to products from her favorite lines, include the following: From Truss Professional: Deluxe Prime Hair Treatment, Miracle Amino Spray, Frizz Zero Spray and Amino Acid Heat Protectant Spray; from Kérastase: Elixir Ultime L’Huile Original Hair Oil and the Nectar Thermique Heat Protectant; and from K18 Hair (great especially for blondes): Leave-in Molecular Repair Hair Mask. Rinaldi is an amazing stylist and ensures that the integrity of her clients hair is intact and they’re educated on how to maintain that fresh salon feeling. To get to where Rinaldi is today, she not only worked hard but she constantly found new ways to educate herself along with learning from her coworkers. Some advice she wanted me to share was that whether you’re new in this industry or have been in it for quite some time, you should always continue to find ways to improve yourself. You’re going to make mistakes but find the patience to learn through them. Rinaldi emphases finding your strengths and working on your weaknesses. Further, she encourages all to work in an environment that makes you feel at home and that wants to provide education and help you be the best stylist you can be. Rinaldi currently works at Panico Salon, 144 E. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, as a Level 4 stylist. If you’d like to make any appointments with her, the hours she works is listed are as follows: Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Courtney Gilroy is the owner of Glow Commando, a mobile beauty service that specializes in airbrush tanning, makeup and hairstyling. She’s a licensed cosmetologist. To learn more about Glow Commando or book an appointment, visit www. glowcommando.co. Stay connected by following these Instagram handles: @ Talkcurlytome and @Glowcommando.

STYLE BY SONECA

BREAK THE RULES Five No-Fail Ways To Wear A White T-Shirt By Soneca Guadara

| Fall 2023

s there anything more classic than a white T-shirt? It’s simple clean and easy. It literally goes with anything, and it never feels overdone. The white T-shirt is often overlooked because it’s understated – yet make no mistake, we keep coming back to it. You can dress it up or dress it down. It’s the perfect wardrobe staple. Find the perfect fit and you can wear it as often as your laundry regime will allow it. Here are some simple, no-fail ways to style a white T-shirt.

9-to-5

Whether you’re back in the office full-time, continue to work from home or have embraced a more flexible approach, the pandemic is guaranteed to have had a lasting impact on your nine-to-five look. At one time, a white T-shirt might have been considered too casual to be appropriate for work. Now, though, styled correctly, it’s a fail-safe choice. Paired with loose-cut tailoring, such as utility pants and leopard print heels, this wardrobe workhorse strikes the perfect balance between effortless and elegant. Whether you’re meeting clients, delivering an important presentation or dialing in from your kitchen table, you’re sure to feel polished and professional.

Layer It

Do you have a cute jumpsuit with a neckline that’s a little too deep, or maybe a slip dress you’d love to wear, but you feel like it’s just a little too revealing? Pair a classic fitted white T-shirt underneath your dress to add polish, make it a little more modest or take an outfit from day-to-night. Almost any sleeveless dress looks great as a jumper over the top of a classic T-shirt. The trick is to find a T-shirt fitted enough to lie flat under the dress and avoid extra bulk or bunching. Look for shell styles or T-shirts with a rayon-spandex blend in a size down.

Add Statement Jewelry

Another super-simple way to take a T-shirt from ho-hum to ooh la la is to add an eye-catching piece of jewelry. With a crewneck T-shirt, go bold or go home. Use bright beads, chunky necklaces in candy colors, or fun fashion jewelry to really make a statement. Think of a white T-shirt as a blank canvas and add color and shape to really make things pop. For a v-neck or scoop neck T-shirt, sweet delicate necklaces (like chains, single or layered, or a floating pendant) can look great. Gold and silver both look wonderful with classic white T-shirt, and you can even go classic-on-classic with a diamond (or faux diamond) necklace. Long pendants also add a boho aura to a tee and can make your outfit seem effortlessly stylish.

Dress it Up

When it comes to eveningwear, a white T-shirt might not sound like the most daring (or obvious) choice, but it’s the insouciant edge this closet staple can lend to more directional pieces that makes it an after-dark essential. Let yours temper the drama of a black velvet maxi skirt, only to dial it back up again by adding embellished mules and even a red patent bag. Adding a casual element to your look makes for a more contemporary take on traditional eveningwear, whether you’re dressing for date night or dinner with friends.

Weekend Vibes

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more timeless sartorial combo than casual pants or jeans and a crisp white T-shirt. So, whether you’re planning to spend the weekend gallery-hopping, lunching with friends or sitting in your local park, keep it simple and opt for this classic look. The trick here is to balance proportions: super-baggy pants look great with a tighter tee, while boxy T-shirts pair well with high-rise, straight-leg styles, which cinch the waist while elongating the legs. To add some contemporary flair, pair with hi/low accessories, finishing your outfit with minimal sneakers. Continued on page 68

A Few Bonus Tips for Making the Most of Your White T-Shirt Style Adding a little more style to your wardrobe is easier than we think, especially when you start with a plain white T-shirt and build from there. Here are a few more bonus tips for making the most of your style:

Try Different Shapes, Sleeves and Necklines

When we think white T-shirt, most of us think of the classic crewneck, short sleeve option, but there are so many more cuts and styles to choose from. T-shirts come in many different fabrics – silks, rayon, knits, cotton and more. You can find great long sleeve options as well as tank and sleeveless T-shirts. When it comes to necklines, there’s boat, scoop, V-neck, crew and even turtlenecks. Experiment with different shapes and fabrics to find your classic white T-shirt. Maybe you love a chest pocket or maybe it makes you cringe. Some women prefer baby doll or ladies’ cuts and others like a more classic shape. White T-shirts are so versatile, you can really make it stretch through your entire wardrobe, so find something you love and go with it.

Take the Time to Add a Little Flair

Do you ever wonder why women on Pinterest and fashion blogs always have outfits that look so together? It’s simple. They take time to “style” their clothing. This means rolling up sleeves, doing a half-tuck with a baggy shirt (tuck in the front at the waist) or even tying the corner of a shirt on the side. These little stylist tricks take your outfit from “I threw this on” to polished. Adding a belt, accessorizing or layering can make a huge difference. It makes your look seem more thought out and put together. Experiment with these little low-effort tricks and you’ll be hooked.

Soneca Guadara is a personal fashion stylist who helps women feel beautiful and confident. Soneca lives in Bergen County and works with clients that range from celebrities to Fortune 500 entrepreneurs to simple women looking for a way to unlock their true self through style. If you want more tips then go to www.stylebysoneca.com to download her “Must Have Wardrobe Checklist” or follow her on Instagram @styledbysoneca.

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AUTO

The Tale of Two

Toyotas The All-new GR Corolla and Prius

GR Corolla

t’s hard to believe, but it wasn’t so long ago that there was a time when Toyota wasn’t so prevalent in the U.S. market. But, starting in the mid 1970s, leading into the 1980s and with great momentum in the 1990s, things changed. Significantly. That’s because the Japanese manufacturer went mainstream.

(JDM), the brain trust knew that it’d be much easier selling expensive cars under a brand that wasn’t associated with fuel-sipping hatchbacks and Plain Jane sedans. Cue immense success for Toyota Motor Sales.

Nameplates like Corolla and Camry became staples. And then, the automaker birthed its luxury brand, Lexus. While some of its high-end products already existed as Toyotas in the Japanese Domestic Market

That said, moving along into the 2010s, it became clear that one of the world’s largest automakers had a perception problem. Within enthusiast and journalist circles, the joke about Toyota was that it was the master of delivering “beige.” I know it sounds odd but stick

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prius with me. Essentially, everyone was very aware that Toyota made some of the most reliable, long-lasting vehicles on the planet. But there was one issue: They were a total bore, both to look at and drive. Knowing this, the company then pivoted to prove everyone wrong. Not only can Toyota build some of the world’s finest automobiles, but it can make autos visually appealing and with driving characteristics that stir something in your soul. This carries through to two of its latest products, but in different ways.

With the all-new Prius, Toyota has made drastic changes to its previously successful hybrid — sales have eroded since the early 2010s. And, frankly, with Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y eating everybody’s lunch, it doesn’t have a choice. Right now, any hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), electric vehicle (EV) or even luxury automobile, has to fend off Tesla to retain or grow its market share. Simply put, increased competition ultimately makes better products in a market and the all-new Prius is one such example. All new for the 2023 model year, the fifth-genera-

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tion Prius has been rethought from the ground up. It’s readily apparent when you see it for the first time. Traditionally, the Prius has looked “quirky” at best and downright messy at its worst (e.g., the fourth-generation car). Now, though, the Prius is stunning. Yes, you read that correctly. Featuring a sleek exterior design, its body has strong lines and tidy little details. My favorite bit is its side profile. From the front of the vehicle’s hood to the beginning of its roof, the new Prius has essentially one continuous line, which means this all-new Prius has a severely raked windshield. It’s something you see on a wedge-shaped supercar a la Lamborghini, not a mass-produced Toyota. When you slide into the driver’s seat, you’re confronted with a Spartan interior. Behind the three-spoke steering wheel, you’re presented with a letterbox display for the instrument panel and located in the center stack is a massive, 12-inch infotainment screen. The center stack has few buttons, and, from my count, the steering wheel has more. Personally, I like how Toyota has upped its interior quality in recent years and the all-

new Prius is another wonderful example. Its touch points (e.g., steering wheel, shifter, buttons, arm rest, etc.) all feel right. There’s a certain robustness to its interior that you won’t find in a flimsy Tesla. To me, this Toyota feels like a Lexus. Is the Prius’ cabin perfect? Well, no. The placement of the instrument panel is a bit awkward and depending on the height of your steering wheel, information may be blocked. Remember that severely raked windscreen I just mentioned? That does translate into having to watch one’s head while entering and exiting the cockpit. More importantly though, how does it drive? Guess what? There’s more good news! That said, let’s set the stage. With previous-gen Prii, it seemed that Toyota never actually cared about the driving experience. It was a car built to satisfy one goal: Obtain the best possible MPG. Today, though, it’s clear that Toyota’s philosophy has evolved. Meaning, the all-new Prius is fun to drive.

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GR Corolla Featuring a revised powerplant, the Prius has a 2.0liter, four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system that produces 194 horsepower and 139 lb.-ft. of torque. While that may sound rather tame on the surface, you must keep in mind that this represents 60 and 16 percent increases for horsepower and torque, respectively, over the last-gen Prius. Zero to 60 happens in just over seven seconds. Once again, this is improved from the previous Prius, which hit 60 mph in a yawn-inducing, nearly 10 second time. The biggest difference can be found in the all-new Prius’ chassis. It is a massive, massive improvement. The older-generation cars tended to feel like what I’d imagine a cow would be like to drive. The Prius was lazy, ponderous and rife with body roll. Now, though? Driving north from Tenafly into Alpine, on the twisty portion of Route 9W, it started to become clear to me that this was a bit of a driver’s car. This was only cemented when I hopped on New York’s Saw Mill Parkway for closer analysis. Between the increase in

power, a more composed chassis and a wider stance, you can hustle this Toyota around corners. While it’s not a Supra, it certainly can entertain any openminded driver willing to give the Prius nameplate a shot. Even better, Toyota engineered this car without going overboard. You can easily drive the all-new Prius in Manhattan as its suspension is not overly firm, which means it eats up pockmarked road surfaces thanks to its comfortable setup. There’s just one, well, two problems. First, the four-cylinder, gasoline-powered engine’s noise is treacherous. Second, the eCVT transmission is quite possibly one of the worst inventions known to man. Accelerating onto any highway onramp produces a wave of awful engine noise that sounds like an economy car fighting to pick up speed. When compared to the instantaneous torque from an EV and a largely silent swell of speed, the Prius just feels archaic. All that said, the Prius nabbed as high as 52 mpg while handling city traffic. On the highway though, this figure took a hit and was as low as 44 mpg during my time with the car. Continued on page 74

prius

Overall, this has been a much-welcomed change for the Prius. For the first time, ever, the car has some pizzaz thanks to Toyota injecting excellent styling and paying attention to driving dynamics. But what happens when you dial that to, say, 11? That’s where the all-new Toyota GR Corolla enters the picture. Essentially, what Toyota has done is take its entry-level car, the Corolla, and give it over to its motorsports division known as Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR). From there, its team of performance specialists overhauled the car, top-to-bottom, and delivered us its first-ever TGR vehicle developed and built for the North American market. You know what they say, right? “First impressions are the most important.” If that’s the case, then the GR Corolla has imprinted on me for the rest of my life. Let’s take it from the top. The GR Corolla is equipped with a 1.6-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged engine. Thanks to TGR’s handiwork, this little three banger is churning out 300 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. In today’s day and age that may seem a bit…underwhelming. It’s not. That’s because you have to keep in mind that it is a Corolla and it weighs just a hair more than 3,250 pounds in the Core trim I drove. Armed with an all-wheel drivetrain, zero to 60 happens in a quick five seconds. And, unlike most of today’s autos, to get that time you’ll need to know how to operate three pedals. That’s right. The GR Corolla is only offered with a six-speed manual transmission. 74

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It’s not just a quick car, however. That’s because it’s how the GR Corolla acts that makes it a special vehicle. While most performance-oriented vehicles today have quite a bit of polish and refinement dialed into the final production unit, that’s not the case with the GR Corolla. Its suspension is tuned to be firm and, frankly, it can be punishing at times. When you start it, the three-cylinder engine reverberates through the cabin and continues during idling. And the GR Corolla needs revs when you launch it. You can’t be gentle or pussyfoot around with this car, you must grab it by the scruff of the neck and show it who’s boss. Clearly, it has a personality. It’s a bit raw and rough around the edges, but it’s one that I like. Two of the coolest features in the GR Corolla come in form of its 12-inch, digital instrument panel and three drivetrain settings that adjust how power is distributed to the front and rear axles. First, the TFT instrument panel is totally configurable so you can see a variety of relevant data points (e.g., tire pressures, turbo pressure, G-meter, etc.). Even better, you can save three views so you can cycle through them quickly to get as

much info from the vehicle as needed when pushing the GR Corolla to its limits. Second, and this is truly exceptional, you can change how power is sent to the front/rear with one dial and at speed. Normal mode keeps the power 60/40, front/rear. Sport switches it to 30/70, front/rear. Track makes it 50/50, front/ rear. And, each mode changes how the GR Corolla drives, significantly. As I have a penchant for rear-wheel drive cars and I like autos to be a bit more squirrelly, I kept it in Sport mode during most of the duration of my time with the GR Corolla. Driving it was a blast. With a relatively lightweight clutch pedal and snappy gear shifter, it’s easy to drive once you get the hang of how this car prefers more revs versus less. Once you do though, you have to be more precise with your throttle inputs during shifts to ensure your passengers have a smooth ride. Pushing it in the GR Corolla’s natural habitat, twisties, you will feel some minor body roll, but it’s kept in check due to the rigid chassis and sticky rubber the car’s shod with. You’ll hear the sweet-sounding Continued on page 76

three-cylinder and Starting whengaining Joyce speed, was a the littleturbo girl,whistle she would the blow off valve releasing pressure — it’s enthrallobserve — and eventually participate in — the food and nutritional benefits. These natural ingredients also ing. preparation. Joyce says she was lucky that her make it taste refreshing, slightly sweet and delicious. I

mother was a wonderful cook that taught her about invite you to trylook. the following: lemon,I adon’t natural detoxifier Then, there’s the Personally, think anythe love of food and family. During those gatherand aids with bloating and fluid retention; lime, helps with one will notice it unless they’re an enthusiast. ings, herreally mother, aunts and grandmother would be digestion and a naturaland detoxifier; cucumber, helps cool Sure, it’s lower, more This brutal stylhumming with wider activity infeatures the kitchen. served the inflammatory response in the body and reduces puffiing overtraining the standard Corolla. The biggest as her grounds. For example, this giveaway is where and bloating and flushes But, toxins;from mint, soothes the isJoyce itsness three-tipped exhaust. myto perspecfirst learned about sofrito and how cook, as stomach and reduces inflammation; basil, anti-inflammatotive, it still is low key and flying under the radar. If she describes, using “layering” techniques. By doing you’re a more stealthy vibe, check it to outher inand black. and anti-bacteria; ginger, aids in digestion; berries, so, ry it into adds dimensionality respective high in antioxidants and boosts immunity. dishes. If youYouare move fast mayinterested, also drink icedyou’ll herbal want tea and to get the benefits though. These GR Corollas are highly desirable a little more the flavor.start Add lemon or mint to iced tea at Thiswith was merely though. That’s because the moment and to refreshed, acquire. andalso you will nottough only feel but like you’re hyJoyce spent time with her relatives in France. without the boredom of “another glass ofof water.” Shedrating fondly remembers summers outside AviAll said and done, it’s clear that Toyota has got its gnon and preparing food with her grandmother. groove back.they’d ByTo lending the Prius some picking of its styling Eating Together, goHydrate through the fields wild and performance chops, perhaps that will increase In addition to drinking theplacing appropriate ofin her rosemary and wild thyme, theamount herbs interest and its sales to levels of yesteryear. water forboost yourfolded weight and activities, eating watertells richThe grandmother’s apron. Something me GR Corolla, on the other hand, is a total juvenile thisfoods likelyis another inspiredwayJoyce’s use of the freshest possito increase hydration. These include delinquent. As one best strawberries, performance Toyotas ble cucumber, ingredients for of herthe empanadas — more on that watermelon, zucchini, tomatoes, ever made, the stage has been set for it to become a later. peaches, cantaloupe, broccoli, cauliflower, apples, pears, future classic. citrus fruits, pineapples, spinach, iceberg lettuce and many,

But, that’s not all. Joyce’s father was an aspiring baker, which shouldn’t come as much of a surprise given that many more. Eating a salad made from water rich veggies some of the world’s best pastry chefs call France home, and fruit will not only help with hydration but provide and the country’s well known for its delicious desserts. your body with nutrients and fiber as well. Although he was not able to successfully bootstrap his Unlike other ways we try to increase our health, own bakery once he made it stateside, that didn’t stop drinking water daily is an inexpensive way to help fuel him from pursuing his burning passion. For family and repair your body.You don’t have to join a gym, subgatherings he would meticulously prepare the most scribe to a service or have a kit. Start with good water. wonderful treats, says Fragoso. Get your hands on a container that will allow you to track number of ounces. Addand a little natural flavor. With thisthetype of upbringing emphasis on bringThen, you’re on your way. This summer, while ing joy to people via delightful dishes, it you’re makes sense seasontoand all ofGirl the activities and whyexperiencing Joyce wasthe driven open From Empanada. pleasures brings, remember Simply put, itit’s in her DNA. to keep your body running at its best and hydrate.

Although Joyce took a detour as a teacher for many Audrey Zona is an apparent integrative health coach years, it became that and shewellness needed toand fulfill her the lifelong AfterShe all,is ashe hadwife been founderdesire. of Zo Healthy. mother, andincubating personal the coach idea who of her own food-related business for loves seeing her clients break old diet patterns nearly three catalyst: Thelives. COVID-19 pandemic. anddecades. enjoy moreThe satisfying, healthier Follow Audrey on Although was a devastating across Instagramit@zo_healthy for recipes, tipssituation and tricks for leadingthe globe, for Fragoso, it was a watershed moment a healthy lifestyle.You may also visit her website at https:// that gavelivezohealthy.com her the pushortoherpursue her dream. Facebook at www.facebook.com/ ZoHealthy. ■

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| Spring 2023 |48Fall 2023

Continued on page 62

EATS

‘Fall’ In Love with

Family-Favorite Autumn Recipes Watermelon Walnut Currant Chutney 4 2 2 1 1/2 1/2 1 1/2 1/4 1 1 2 2 1

cups watermelon, juiced cups watermelon rind (white part), diced small Tablespoons apple cider vinegar cups packed brown sugar medium white onion, sliced Tablespoon minced garlic teaspoon nutmeg teaspoon cloves, ground teaspoon lemon zest lemon, juice only Tablespoons currants Tablespoons roasted walnuts wheel brie cheese, for serving crackers, for serving

In saucepan over medium heat, reduce watermelon juice to 2 cups. Combine with watermelon rind, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, white onion, garlic, nutmeg, cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, currants and walnuts; simmer until almost dry. Chill and serve over brie with crackers.

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Warm-Spiced Chickpeas and Couscous with Grapes and Arugula 2 1 1 1/2 1/2 1/8 1 3/4 1 1/2 1 1 2 4

Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil small onion, chopped teaspoons ground cumin teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided teaspoon ground allspice cup Israeli pearl couscous teaspoon ground turmeric cups water can (15 ounces) no-salt-added chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained cup red Grapes from California, halved tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley cups lightly packed baby arugula lemon wedges

In large saucepan over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt and allspice; cook, stirring, until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add couscous and stir 1 minute to toast lightly. Add turmeric and water; bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until couscous is tender, about 15 minutes. Stir chickpeas, grapes and cilantro into couscous then season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer couscous-grape mixture to large bowl, add arugula and toss well. Serve warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges.

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Watermelon Bourbon Glaze with Grilled Flank Steak 1 1/2

cups watermelon juice (approximately 2 1/2 cups chopped watermelon, blended) 2 tablespoon minced garlic 1/4 cup soy sauce 1/4 cup brown sugar . teaspoon hot sauce 1/4-1/2 cup bourbon 2 pounds flank steak or London broil 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, reduce watermelon juice to 2/3 cup. Toward end of reduction, add garlic. Remove from heat, cool 10 minutes then add soy sauce, brown sugar, hot sauce and bourbon. Mix well. Place watermelon-bourbon glaze in large zip-top bag. Add steak and massage to cover meat. Close bag and refrigerate 3-4 hours. Heat grill to high heat. Remove steak from plastic bag and gently shake to remove excess glaze. Grill steak 4-6 minutes; turn, grill 4-6 minutes, depending on thickness of steak. Remove from heat. Steak should be pink in center. Allow steak to rest on platter or cutting board 10 minutes. Mix small amount of watermelon-bourbon glaze with cornstarch. In small saucepan over medium-high heat, add cornstarch mixture to remaining glaze and simmer 3-5 minutes. Reduce to medium heat until mixture thickens. Remove from heat. Cut flank steak on bias into thin strips. Drizzle watermelon-bourbon glaze over top.

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C H I L D R E N ’ S H E A LT H

SMALL PATIENTS,

Big CARE

WE GET IT.

You want the very best for your child. So do we. That’s why Valley’s pediatric specialists deliver experienced care, tailored to the needs of young patients. Our team takes the time to understand their patients’ concerns, answer questions, and reassure parents in a child-friendly environment. Our team of pediatric providers specializes in: Pediatric Primary Care* Pediatric Surgery* Developmental Pediatrics Endocrinology Food Allergy* Gastroenterology & Nutrition* Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Pulmonology Sleep Medicine Weight Management

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CALL 201-447-8151 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT. Telemedicine appointments also available. ValleyHealth.com/ChildrensHealth

| Fall 2023