We’re honored that U.S. News & World Report has ranked Hackensack University Medical Center the #1 adult and children’s hospitals in New Jersey. Nationally Ranked — Top 50 in 8 Specialties:
J Urology #17 — Best program in NJ
J Pulmonology and Lung Surgery #22 — Only nationally ranked program in NJ
J Neurology & Neurosurgery #23 — Only nationally ranked program in NJ
J Diabetes & Endocrinology #25 — Only nationally ranked program in NJ
J Orthopedics #25 — Nationally Ranked
J Geriatrics #34 — Only nationally ranked program in NJ
J Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery #41 — Best in NJ
J Cancer #44 — Best in NJ
To learn more, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Rankings.
Summer 2024
Winter 2025
Publishers
Publishers
Sharon & Steven Goldstein
Sharon & Steven Goldstein
Associate Publisher
Associate Publisher
Brandon Goldstein
Brandon Goldstein
Editorial Director
Editorial Director
Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo
Jessica Humphrey-Cintineo
Art Director
Art Director
BMG Marketing
BMG Marketing
Contributing Writers
Contributing Writers
Kevin Czerwinski
Kevin Czerwinski
Brandon Goldstein
Dr. Michael Gross
Dr. Michael Gross
Soneca Guadara
Soneca Guadara
Megan Montemarano
Marilyn Katzman
Jennifer Bonazzo Peters
Megan Montemarano
Richard Posluszny
Lori Nittoli
Kimberly Redmond
Kimberly Redmond
Richard Posluszny
Nicole Zamlout
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.
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.
For advertising and information, please call (201) 694-5196. For subscription information or to contact us, go to www.bcthemag.com.
Copyright 2024. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.
Copyright 2025. All materials are the property of Bergen County The Magazine, LLC. and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers.
A Letter from the Editor
New year, new you. It sounds appealing, doesn’t it? But there is something to be said for refusing to give up on yourself. This year, instead of setting lofty goals or trying to become someone totally different, I’m focusing on small, sustainable changes that align with who I already am.
I was reminded this recently while sitting in the school parking lot waiting on my two sons to be dismissed for the day. The radio host was sharing how FOMO (the fear of missing out) was being replaced by JOMO (the joy of missing out). She went on to say, “In a time when everyone seems to be living their best life online, the idea of ‘missing out’ often feels like a downer.”
And she’s right. Social media does overload us with snapshots of friends partying, amazing trips and exciting events, which can easily make anyone feel left out.
“Imagine taking a step back and appreciating your own choices instead of feeling pressured by what others are doing,” she continued.
Yes, imagine that. Imagine living life at your own pace.
It’s been a few weeks now since I heard that discussion on the radio. In those few weeks, I have silenced all social media notifications on my phone and laptop. My personal thoughts are no longer drowned out (not to mention I find myself with some additional free time –win, win).
In those few weeks, I’ve found my (and my family’s) “no.” In today’s gotta-be-there lifestyle, it’s easy to feel like you must show up to everything. JOMO has reminded me that it’s not about how many events I attend, but the quality of the people I spend time with. I’ve opted out of a few outings and invested more time in relationships that really matter.
And, in those few weeks, I’ve become more present. When you step away from the endless scroll and the pressure to be everywhere, you can really soak in your everyday life. You can find the joy in the mundane.
Sure, it’s only been a few weeks, but JOMO has quickly become my 2025 motto. In 2025, I will make choices that truly make me happy and are authentic to me.
The next time you feel the urge to join in on all the latest plans, I invite you to consider stepping back and seeing the beauty in a quieter, more intentional life.
Authentically yours, JessiCa huMphrey-Cintineo
Addiction Medicine
Bariatric Surgery
Behavioral Health
Blood Disorders
Breast Surgery
Cancer
Cardiac Electrophysiology
Cardiology
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Colon and Rectal Surgery
Dermatology
Diabetes Education
ENT Head and Neck Surgery
Emergency Medicine (adult and pediatric)
Endocrinology
Gastroenterology
Geriatric Medicine
Gynecologic Oncology
Gynecology
Hematology
Infectious Disease
Integrative Medicine
Interventional Cardiology
Interventional
Gastroenterology
Interventional Pulmonology
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Men’s Health
Neonatology
Nephrology
Neurology
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Orthopedics
Pain Management
Palliative Care
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Podiatry
Primary Care
Pulmonology
Rheumatology
Sleep Medicine
Surgery
Surgical Oncology
Thoracic Surgery
Urgent Care
Urology
Urogynecology
Vascular Surgery
Vein Disease
Women’s Health
Wound Healing
ENGLEWOOD HEALTH
Englewood Health held their annual Medical Staff Reception at Edgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.englewoodhealth.org.
Dr. Peter Symington, Dr. Alexandra Gottdiener, Dr. Mark Sapienza
Dr. John Stabile, Dr. Kenneth and Carol Rubin, Dr. Miguel Sanchez
Dr. Stephen Brunnquell, Dr. Minaxi Jhawer, Himanshu Rateshwer
Dr. Ki Won Kim, Dr. Jingjing Sherman, Dr. Joseph Kim
Rebecca Parada, Dr. Omar Hasan
Dr. Molly Schultheis, Dr. Anna Serur
Dr. Molly Schultheis, Dr. Adam and Rebecca Arnofsky
Diane Lubinski, Yoon Hee Kim, Dr. Carla Sueldo Feijoo, Dr. Hans Reyes
Dr. Gregg and Deborah Lobel, Kristen and Warren Geller, Bob Mangano
Christine Weiselberg, Dr. Victor Borden, Ted Weiselberg
Dr. Rico Visperas, Dr. Jeffrey Cohen, Dr. John Galant
Dr. Harvey and Gayle Chertoff, Dr. Howard Liss
Dr. Peter Symington, Dr. Ana Burga, Dr. Mark Sapienza, Warren Geller, Richard Lerner, Dr. Stephen Brunnquell
Dr. Matthew Jung,
Dr. Violet McIntosh, Bernadette St. Maria, Alexa Aitkens
Monica and Dr. Michael Cioroiu
Eileen Moritz Ibrahim, Dr. Ibrahim Ibrahim
FRIENDS OF HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
FRIENDS of Hackensack Meridian Hackensack University Medical Center held their fall luncheon at Indian Trail Club. For more information, visit www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org.
Dan Cronin, Shideh Doroudi, Stephanie and Robert Budelman
Robert Budelman, Dory Pavlak, David and Michelle Incorvaia
Will and Danni Fernandez, Kevin Slavin
Beth Kushner, Jay Miller
Jamie Aponte, Sonia Restreo, Jennifer Perez, Roselyn Enriquez
Ted and Eva Hajek
John and Liz Cioletti, Rob Fava, John Lainski
The Laws of Love
By Lori nittoLi
Michelle Frankel’s Matchmaking Magic
When Michelle Frankel left her career as an attorney, she wasn’t just closing a case – she was opening her heart to a whole new calling. Trading law for love, Michelle transformed her life from corporate law to creating “mergers of a romantic variety.” Today, as the CEO and Chief Love Officer of NYCity Matchmaking and New Jersey Matchmaking, Michelle connects singles throughout the NYC Metro area with bespoke personalized services who want to be intentional about dating and finding a partner. Her journey from legal briefs to love stories is one of self-discovery, entrepreneurial grit and the heartfelt belief that everyone deserves a chance at real love.
“It started with the golden handcuffs,” Michelle recalls, describing her early legal career. “I was good at it and enamored by the paycheck, but I was not fulfilled. It felt like I was just going through the motions.”
Seeking a change, she moved to New York City, where fate seemed to align.
Michelle’s first unofficial success as a matchmaker came when she set up her reporting partner with the man who would become her husband. Not long after, she took on the role of matchmaker for herself, leading to her own happily ever after with her future husband.
“People started asking, ‘Can you do that for me?’ It clicked – I wasn’t just good at this; it was my calling.”
Her path to building a matchmaking empire wasn’t a straight line. Honing her people’s skills with a bartending gig in Washington, D.C., to launching a website during her honeymoon, Michelle’s story is a testament to her romantic resourcefulness.
“I didn’t know I was starting a successful business. I just knew I wanted to help people find what I had found – real love.”
Since its beginnings in 2011, NYCity Matchmaking has flourished into a sought-after service with offices in Ridgewood, New York City and The Hamptons. Now, 15 years later, Michelle and her team are in such high demand that there’s often a waitlist to work with them.
“While 75 percent of our clients are based in the NYC Metro area, we proudly serve clients nationwide, including a growing number in Florida. With remote lifestyles and fluid living between multiple locations becoming the norm, our approach meets the needs of today’s dynamic world,” Michelle shared.
Continued on page 20
Matchmaking Myths and Modern Realities
One of the biggest misconceptions Michelle encounters is that matchmaking is for singles who are not able to get dates.
“It’s the opposite,” she insists. “Our clients are CEOs, celebrities and professionals. It’s for people who value their time and are serious in their partner search.”
In a world saturated with dating apps and surface-level swiping, Michelle’s approach is refreshingly personal.
“We do the heavy lifting – getting to know our clients deeply, understanding their values and lifestyles, and filtering out distractions – so they can focus their energy on building something real.”
Her process at NYCity & New Jersey Matchmaking is as bespoke as it gets. Every client begins with a “deep dive” consultation.
“We spend hours getting to know our clients – not just their preferences, but who they are at their core,” Michelle explains.
From there, her team carefully recruits and vets each potential match, setting up dates that are designed to align with her clients’ goals.
“It’s not about endless options; it’s about meaningful connections.”
Both NYCity and New Jersey Matchmaking also offer comprehensive services like professional photo sessions, image and wardrobe consultations, body language coaching, mock dating experiences and personalized wingman or wingwoman support to enhance your dating journey.
“People are nervous when they meet someone for the first time. A mock dating experience, for example, can include simple yet impactful feedback such as how to flirt effectively, make eye contact with your date, and ways to keep the conversation flowing.”
Dating in the Digital Age
While online dating has skyrocketed in popularity, Michelle points out its pitfalls.
“Everyone should be online if they’re single. The biggest mistake people make is treating online dating
like a game,” she says. “A profile isn’t just a marketing pitch. If you’re not showing your authentic self, how can anyone connect with you?”
She encourages clients to invest in professional photos and well-thought-out profiles, but most importantly, to approach dating with authenticity.
“For those clients who prefer the digital approach, we offer dedicated account management to make sure they are putting their best selves out there. We streamline and refine a client’s profile so it is appealing yet sincere and we oversee their inbox to ensure thoughtful replies to potential matches and conversions to actual dates happen,” Michelle explains.
One of the biggest dating trends Michelle is seeing right now is meeting people through curated events.
“I always aspire to create opportunities for people to meet in a fun and relaxed atmosphere,” she says. “We recently partnered up with LifeTime Fitness to host our Pickleball Singles Mixer. Singles of all ages came to flirt, mingle and play pickleball. It is a perfect way to connect!”
For those struggling with the overwhelming nature of modern dating, Michelle offers practical advice: “Put your phone away. Make eye contact. Smile. Compliment someone sincerely.”
These small acts, she says, can cut through the noise of digital dating and foster genuine human connection on a deeper level.
Stories That Stick
Michelle’s career is filled with memorable moments, but a few stand out. One client found his perfect partner through her services and thanked Michelle in his wedding vows. Another client, a woman frustrated by years of failed relationships, took Michelle’s advice to heart: “Be fearless and vulnerable.” Within months, she met someone who matched her energy and vision for the future.
“There’s no such thing as ‘love at first sight’; it’s more like lust at first sight,” Michelle believes.
“That kind of intensity is often difficult to maintain and the dip causes the split. A real connection
Continued on page 22
is one where people admire and respect each others’ vision for the future, even if they seem like opposites on paper. From here, through joint life experiences they develop into soulmates.”
“It’s these moments that remind me why I do this,” Michelle says. “Helping people find love isn’t just about the relationship – it’s about transforming the way clients see themselves and what they deserve. It’s about the journey.”
Of course, not every story is a fairy tale. Michelle recalls one humorous date where a client thought everything went perfectly, only for the feedback to reveal otherwise.
“Sometimes, it’s about learning and growing from the experience,” she says. “Even the so-called failures bring people closer to what they’re looking for.”
Michelle’s Bergen County Favorites
As a proud Bergen County local, Michelle has a few spots she holds close to her heart.
“Ramapo Reservation is one of my favorite places,” she shares. “I love hiking there. It’s such a great way to recharge.”
She’s also a fan of the Horse Rescue in Mahwah, the Ramsey Farmers Market and the Riverside Mall for shopping and movies.
Her day-to-day often finds her strolling through Ridgewood, where one of her offices is located.
“It’s such a charming town to walk through,” she says, adding that Rey Sol Coffee is her go-to for caffeine. “I love supporting small businesses, and their coffee is fantastic.”
When it’s time for cocktails and a good meal, Michelle heads to Varka.
“They have amazing Greek food and delicious, creative cocktails,” she raves.
And what she loves most about Bergen County? Its proximity to everything.
“We’re so close to NYC and other great counties – there’s a little bit of everything here.”
Looking to the Future
As matchmaking evolves in a world increasingly dominated by technology, Michelle remains a champion of the human touch.
“Love is timeless,” she says. “It’s not about algorithms; it’s about connection.”
Her vision for the future includes building a community of like-minded singles – small groups where people can form authentic bonds with communal support of accountability and shared values.
Her advice for those who feel stuck in their search for love?
“Take a month to reset. Focus on yourself, what you want and what’s holding you back. A dating expert can aid you in clarifying your must-haves and non-negotiables. Then make space for love in your life – physically, emotionally, and mentally. Clean the plate.”
The Heart of Matchmaking
When Michelle isn’t busy making matches, she’s living her own love story with her husband, daughter and their playful new pup, Buddy, who keeps the household buzzing with energy. A hopeless romantic at heart, she loves curling up with classics like The Notebook and Serendipity, believing that love has a way of surprising us – if we’re brave enough to let it in.
To Michelle, matchmaking is about more than just dates; it’s about creating love stories.
“Dating takes effort and courage,” she says with a twinkle in her eye, “but the journey is what makes it so magical. Love is always worth it.”
Visit NYCityMatchmaking.com or NewJerseyMatchmaking.com to begin your own love story.
JOSEPHINE’S GARDEN
The Josephine’s Garden Foundation held their annual luncheon at Seasons. For more information, visit www.josephinesgarden.org.
Fernanda Reis, Dr. Pilar Labriola
Barbara Spirig, Lourdes Sinkovitz, Sue Grau
Linda Farrell, Liz Molino
Kori DeNobile, Andrenaia Giordano
Irene Motta, Jennifer Errity, Christine Haller
Cammy Bourcier, Karen Kleinman
Fernanda Reis, Dr. Pilar Labriola, Samantha Perini
Debra Flaherty, Kim Moran, Karen Fruman
Keri Moran, Deanna Vallego
Glenn Schuck, Heidi Rispoli
Lori Gruppuso, Nancy Coll
Karen Madigan, Denise Goumas
Henry Horgan, Jennifer Schuck, Violet Rispoli, Christian Hobbis, Glenn Schuck
The season of giving lasts all year round for Palisades Country Day School, a family-owned and operated early childhood education facility serving the Bergen County community since 1965. Founded by Mary Ann and Richard Hubschman, the school has expanded over the years due to its success and growing demand. In addition to its original location in Fort Lee, the Palisades Country Day School was opened in Closter in September 1994, followed by a third school in a building next door shortly thereafter. Mary Ann and Richard’s daughter, Jean Hubschman-Horn, manages the Fort Lee location, while their granddaughter, Laura Hubschman-Scuderi, serves as the current school director in Closter.
The Make a Difference program first launched in 1990 with a simple heartfelt mission: To teach children from a young age the value of coming together, helping one another, sharing and giving back to those in need. Mary Ann and Richard introduced these meaningful practices by gathering the entire school, reading an inspiring book to the students and sharing ideas that would support local charities. Today, this mission has been reimagined to new heights, thanks to the stewardship of their granddaughter and countless other dedicated staff.
“I am proud to have been a part of Palisades Country Day School and Camp for almost my entire life,” says Laura. She goes on to explain that she essentially
grew up on the Closter campus, attending both the preschool and camp, which she later worked at as the activities coordinator and summer camp director. “My passion for education eventually led me to teach preschool in one of our three-yearold classrooms, followed by eight wonderful years teaching first grade in the public school system. My grandmother seemed to be grooming me for the position of school director, hoping I would follow in her footsteps and keep her dream alive.”
And that she certainly did. As the current director, Laura noticed a decline in food contributions for their November Make a Difference project, so she decided to reimagine the initiative — and the results were extraordinary.
“Each month, we now have a designated day for our student’s families to bring in a themed donation,” explains Laura. “For
example, October was socks, November was food and December was toys. For the month of November, each of our 12 classrooms (toddlers, preschool and pre-kindergartners) was assigned specific food items to collectively create complete holiday meals. The response from our generous and thoughtful families was overwhelming.”
With the help of their outreach coordinator, Cassie Bennett, all food donations were integrated into their STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) room, ready for an exciting student-led activity. Each class worked in groups, “shopping” for the items on their lists to assemble full meals that could feed a family of 10.
“Watching our students collaborate and thoughtfully put these meals together was truly heartwarming. It was wonderful to see the looks of pure joy on the children’s faces, knowing they were helping others.”
In total, the Make a Difference project assembled 29 complete meals and collected an additional eight large boxes of extra food. These donations were delivered to the Closter Food Pantry and the Dumont Food Pantry, ensuring that families in the community would have a bountiful holiday season.
“This project was a powerful reminder of the incredible compassion, teamwork, and generosity that defines our school community. We couldn’t be more proud!”
At the same time, students learn that there are people in their own community who may not have basic needs. The project opens their eyes to those less fortunate, delivering an important lesson of kindness and empathy at an impressionable, young age.
“We can always count on the Palisades Country Day School to collect and donate food for our neighbors and friends struggling with food insecurity,” says Tom Colwell, co-chair of the Closter Food and Assistance Board. “This is especially important during the holiday season. On behalf of our community, thank you.”
The Make a Difference program’s network extends even further throughout the year, including collecting Toys for Tots through the Closter Police Department, donating adult and children’s socks to the Franciscan Community Development Center, gathering coins for the March of Dimes Foundation and providing support to the Adopt-a-Soldier program, local animal shelters, and the nonprofit Baby Basics.
“There is nothing more rewarding than working with children during these pivotal early years of their lives,” adds Laura. “Their curiosity, imagination, playfulness and sweet, silly nature make every moment extraordinary. It is truly a privilege to help nurture and guide them during such an important time in their development.”
In December, Make a Difference turned its focus to Toys for Tots. The calendar for the months ahead is packed and ready for action:
• January - Donate non-perishables requested by military troops.
• February - Donate gently used books for the Hackensack Children’s Library and local families.
• March - Collect coins for the “March of Dimes” Foundation.
• April - Donate pet food and supplies to local animal shelters.
• May - Donate infant and toddler supplies for the “Baby Basic Program” to provide help to families of the Children’s Aid and Family Services.
“Giving back is an important part of our role, and instilling this value in our students at such a young age is truly meaningful. By demonstrating the importance of generosity, kindness and empathy, we’re helping to lay the foundation for them to grow into conscientious and compassionate individuals.”
To learn more about Palisades Country Day School and the Make a Difference program, visit palisadescountryday.com.
From Sketches to Stories
The Journey of an Interior Designer Turned Author
By Kevin CzerWinsKi
Leslie Abner has always been able to look at a room and see things that weren’t there.
No, the Saddle River resident doesn’t see ghosts but she does have an uncanny ability to look at a room, big or small, corporate or residential, and see what needs to be done to make it a functional and fanciful working or living space. Abner, 52, has been creating in this way for her entire career, dating back to her days at Cornell University, where she studied textile and apparel design and science.
Her experiences, while making her a well-respected and highly sought-after interior designer, have also allowed her to explore another of her talents – writing. Abner, who grew up in Wayne before moving to Franklin Lakes when she was in college, celebrated the November release of Renovation, her first novel, which draws from her experiences in the world of design.
“Many, many years ago, when I was working predominantly in residential design, there were many
things that I saw and experienced,” said Abner, the single mom of three daughters – Bailey, 23, Gabrielle, 21, and Remi, 19. “I thought to myself, no one would believe me if I told them what when on. I saw The Devil Wears Prada (the movie) and it gave me inspiration. I was experiencing something similar.
“I always had that idea. I just went from there, storytelling, extrapolating and making things more grandiose. It was just larger than life and jumped off the page more than what I realized.”
Abner’s book follows Skylar, a talented interior designer who leaves a toxic job to begin anew in New York City’s design world. She begins to experience success with the help of her boss, Andrew, but when his drinking and need for fame become too much, Skylar’s climb is threatened. Her marriage, meanwhile, also begins to crumble when her husband begins to struggle with Skylar’s success and the ensuing attention she receives.
The book, which has drawn comparisons to the Continued on page 32
works of authors Lauren Weisberger and Emily Griffin, has been a long-time in the making. Abner first started working on it in 2016 but put it aside for a bit when she was going through a divorce. She picked up the project again in 2021 and it culminated with the Nov. 12 release.
“Writing a book is 25 percent coming up with the story and writing it, 25 percent editing, shifting things around, making the characters more likeable, 25 percent soliciting agents and publishers and 25 percent marketing,” said Abner, who also wrote a blog for a while, adding that she has written many other things that are in a draw somewhere, not intended for publication. “I’ve been working on those various steps of the process until now. I’m at the sales part now and I’m getting a lot of guidance and advice.
“Books are sometimes a slow burn. Success isn’t often immediate. Sometimes people discover a book a year or two after it’s published.”
The book can be found on Amazon under several genres, including workplace romance, contemporary fiction and contemporary romance. Abner said she classifies the book as contemporary fiction, though, and is already working on a second book in addition to a screenplay based on the current book. Her second novel is “half written and of a three quarters completely different subject matter.”
Abner continues to find time to work on her writing while working as a commercial designer specializing in the healthcare world of medical and dental offices, wellness centers, etc. What she is doing now is construction based. Abner chooses flooring, molding and paint colors. She designs all the cabinetry for the offices, selects all the solid surfaces, designs the lighting, selects the furniture and placement of furniture in places like the patient waiting room and the break room. She also picks out all the artwork for her clients.
“I had been doing predominantly residential until about 10 years ago when I started doing commercial,” Abner said. “Crazy people prompted the change. I felt like the world of interior design was changing dramatically. When I [first] started I felt there was room for a smaller fish like me.”
“I could have nice clients and do nicely then Wayfair and Pottery Barn and places like that made it very accessible for people to do design themselves. Also, large, powerhouse architectural firms started incorporating interior design as [art of their service. It changed the landscape and became a harder sell and I’m not great at that.”
There is plenty, however, that Abner is great at. She looks at an empty room and knows what needs to be there. She can also write a heck of a story, spinning a thrilling tale of the world in which she works and lives.
For Generations To Come Hope For Children Seeks Treatments and Cures
for Patients and Families
By MariLyn KatzMan
Almost four decades ago, 4-year-old Colleen Giblin from Paramus died from a brain tumor. With multiple hospital admissions, Colleen’s family saw an array of diseases affecting children and developed a sense of compassion and understanding for other parents. The Giblins wanted to do something to prevent such things happening to other children. With help from Colleen’s physician, Darryl C. De Vivo, MD, they became aware of the importance of research funding to understand diseases that affect children’s developing nervous and neuromuscular systems.
With Dr. De Vivo as founding director, their efforts led to the formation of the Colleen Giblin Foundation, known today as the nonprofit Hope for Children’s Research Foundation. The foundation, based
in Ramsey, continues to support the Colleen Giblin Research Laboratories for Pediatric Neurology at Columbia University, which is dedicated to finding new and more effective treatments for children with neurological diseases.
Meg Minassian, executive director of the foundation, is the parent of Danny, a neurologically challenged son who was also a young patient of Dr. De Vivo. Danny had surgery that alleviated constant seizures and today is a young man, becoming increasingly independent.
“I knew research that had been done contributed to making surgery possible for my son, so getting involved was my way of giving back,” she said.
Continued on page 36
Dr. De Vivo assembled a team of researchers including Umrao Monani, PhD, a professor of pediatric neurology at Columbia University. Following Dr. De Vivo’s retirement earlier this year, Dr. Monani is now director of the laboratory.
“We continue trying to understand pediatric neurological diseases,” said Dr. Monani.
The lab continues to explore other diseases including MELAS syndrome, a disease caused by genetic mutations that affect the muscles and nervous system. Researchers are also searching for an effective gene therapy that could cure Glucose Transporter Deficiency. They also collaborate with other laboratories to advance treatments for Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a progressive, genetic disease that affects motor nerve cells in the spinal cord and impacts muscles used for breathing, eating, crawling and walking. Additional opportunities for interaction with world-class researchers take place at the annual Colleen Giblin Lecture Series.
“Funding is critical and clearly influences the progress of steps from ideas to studies, and ultimately to trials, in order to bring treatment to patients,” said Dr. De Vivo. “The rate at which things happen is linked to funding and the Hope for Children Research Foundation has been tremendously helpful.”
The foundation holds four events a year to raise research funds, including a casino night, a sporting clay shoot out, a tricky tray evening and an NFL raffle for Super Bowl tickets. The N.Y. Giants have been involved with the organization since its inception, noted Minassian.
“Funding is the lifeblood of a research lab like ours,” said Dr. Monani. “We depend on groups like Hope for Children Research to supplement limited, competitive funding for worthwhile projects. Some outcomes obtained from research on rare diseases may be applied to other diseases.”
For more information, visit www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org.
CWinter Classics Essentials For A Chic Wardrobe
By soneCa guadara
old weather fashion can be the hardest season to look stylish because you need to wear clothing that is both functional and versatile. Winter essentials are, in my opinion, some of the biggest investments anyone will make in their wardrobes – making it a never-ending challenge to find the right pieces that will look and feel good.
Whether you consider yourself a minimalist or maximalist, it’s important to think about your cold weather capsule with staples that will help you be more intentional and prepared for when the temperature drops.
From wool coats to knee high boots, the items that I recommend are all wardrobe pieces you will be wearing on repeat year after year. The reason for this is because they are items that are classic and never go out of style.
Slouchy Bags
An oversized slouchy bag is a must-have in the winter and beyond. If you’re an on-the-go type of girl or just find that most bags can’t carry all that you need, a slouchy bag is the answer. There’s a plethora of shapes and fabrics to shop from canvas to leather, but one thing is certain you will look effortlessly sophisticated.
Turtlenecks
Flattering on everyone and it can work as a statement piece with any outfit. From a solid color to striped to a colorful turtleneck, there is no hard and fast rule this sweater season. Whether you like to wear one that is chunky or on the thinner side, the key is to go for comfort and warmth, this season if you want to spice things up, go for one that has an exaggerated collar.
Sweater Vest
I didn’t see this trend on the rise for this winter, but I have to say it was all over the runways and I must admit that this nerdy staple has been growing in popularity. The funny thing is that this really isn’t a new trend. The sweater vest was a classic that was adopted from menswear for women in the 1930s. If you recall this was worn by old Hollywood actresses, such as Audrey Hepburn and Lauren Becall. This vintage classic will never go out of style. So, whether you choose a solid color one or something with a fun print, you won’t go wrong with the sweater vest. If you’re wondering how to wear this trend, I would style this over a turtleneck or collared shirt to keep you warm and toasty during the winter months.
Heeled Boots
Boots, of course, are winter’s cold weather wardrobe essential. Heeled boots don’t have to be the uncomfortable shoe of the season. They can be a high option that adds a bit of height and sleekness to your outfit, or a low-heel boot that is just as chic. A leather boot with a pointed or square toe is a stylish addition that will top off a classic winter outfit. This season, knee high boots are all the rage, and so are anything with a western flair. If your more into a rocker chic, you can go for a pair of motto style boots.
Trousers
I love a good pair of trousers with a lovely pleat in the front or with wide legs or a tapered fit. Either way, this type of pants will carry you through the winter. They will provide a break from wearing jeans and if you buy a pair made from wool, they will also keep you warm. Trousers are also an item that can be worn year-round.
Straight Leg Jeans
Looking for a go-to pair of jeans, then you can’t go wrong with a pair of straight leg jeans. They are seasonless which is a win-win. When looking for a pair, I suggest purchasing them high waisted and in a medium to dark wash. They look great on all body types and when worn with the right layers, this essential will look great and stylish.
Tailored Coat
The winter coat is a forever must have. When looking to purchase, I suggest getting something long in length and something that is flawlessly tailored. Nothing better than a coat that mimics your body type. Big and boxy will just make you look bigger and that is something we all don’t want.
Accessories
A scarf is one of the most versatile winter essentials. You can wear it in a myriad of ways as there are tons of tutorials on how to tie one. A new way to style a scarf we’ve been seeing on Instagram is the “beanie” style where the scarf is wrapped around the head and neck creating a hat and tie illusion. You can wear a scarf under or over a coat and a jeans and T-shirt look or even with dress and tights.
Tights are another versatile option for winter essentials. They work well with pretty much any outfit from underneath a sweater dress, or underneath the short panties as pants trend. You can play around with colors and patterns to take your look to new levels. Wear red tights for a pop of color underneath a black skirt set or lace black tights for a bit more detail to add to an outfit.
A pair of leather gloves whether black or in a chocolate brown elevates any winter outfit. I love seeing a pair peak through a coat. Other than the functional purpose of keeping your hands warm a leather glove adds dimension to your look. This is the perfect accessory to wear with a monochromatic outfit for added texture.
Soneca Guadara is a personal fashion stylist who helps her clients feel confident and stylish. Follow her on Instagram @stylebysoneca
THE VALLEY BALL
The Valley Hospital Auxiliary held their 76th annual Valley Ball honoring Audrey Meyers at The Lighthouse in Chelsea Piers. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.
Elaine Heimberger, Nancy Weiss
Nancy Linden, Howard Klein
Kara and Phil Centineo
Russell and Margaret Pucci, Cara Macaluso, Ray Wallin
Voula and Joe Lorino
Peter and Ann Swist
Juliann and Joseph Sedlock
Donna and Mark Singer
Rachel and Antonio Lasorsa
Victoria Madden, Margaret Scillieri Knapp, Lynn Holuba
Laura Wu, Charles Rabolli
Dr. Ioan and Tracy Voca
Tracy Valle, Jacob Thomas Chirag and Melissa, Bridget and Marc Adler
Mara and Dr. Scott Agins, Audrey Meyers, Genna Agins, Toku Shimoyama
Dr. Scott Agins, Audrey Meyers
Robin Goldfischer, Paul Hollander Rola and Rashid Baddoura
Deepti and Dr. Sumeet Mittal
Bettina Daly, Bettyann Kempin, Jean Flanagan, Megan Fraser
Deany and Ed Rubin
Nisha and Neil Sikder
Stephanie Edelson, Robert Brenner
Dr. Steven and Mimi Waxenbaum
Steve and Jennifer O’Reilly
Ashling
Paul
Mark Marshall, Lori
Allen and Hilary Khademi
The Valley Ball Committee
Jose Balderama, Dave Bohan, Vincent Forlenza
David and Mary Catherine Bohan
and
Hannah, Ryan Barlow, Patricia Brewer, Carlina Doro
Brian Torcivia, Kim Safara, Ben Torcivia, Joe Lorino, Dan De Clercq
Nuzzi
Journey To Bergen’s Past
Alan Bernstein Highlights The Evolution of Bergen County’s History
By niCoLe zaMLout
Alan Bernstein stands in front of a rapt audience, explaining and highlighting the many unexplored stories of Bergen County, from the history of Camp Merritt, the World War 1 camp that once stretched from Dumont to Cresskill, to the many lunch counters, soda fountains and little moments that those in the county’s past experienced. Bernstein used the third part of his Landmarks of Bergen County lecture series at the Englewood Public Library to showcase both how much has changed and how much has remained the same through both facts and personal anecdotes, making the history of our county come alive with ease.
Bernstein’s own history is as varied as the lectures he creates. A former IT manager for Valley Bank, the retiree studied English literature and journalism before graduating in 1972. He worked at several smaller papers in New York before landing a job as an obituary writer for the Bergen Record. After that,
Bernstein switched to data entry, landing himself firmly in the technological sphere and in several larger companies, including NBCUniversal.
Even in retirement, Bernstein found himself drawn to history and stories, helping the Maywood Library’s Adult Programs Coordinator to come up with programs for the community in 2019. He created several programs in the three years he was there that wove in Bergen’s own landmarks as he discussed a variety of subjects, from nostalgia to holidays to even hauntings. After leaving the library, he took his many lecture series to other locations, discovering more and more fascinating moments in Bergen County’s history and how each story connected to other lectures he crafted.
“As I go along,” Bernstein said, “I’m just kind of finding more pieces of history that I may be able to use in other programs that I’m doing too.”
In his research, Bernstein largely found the county changed in small ways but many of those changes impacted how we as a community lived our lives, from shopping and recreation to entertainment from the 1930s to the 1970s, with the shape of the county’s identity shifting with each era and section.
“Most people don’t know,” Bernstein said, “that Bergen County, back in the 1930s and 1940s, had big nightclubs. Big stars came to Bergen County to entertain, like Sinatra and Martin and Louis. Now, most people, if you want entertainment, would go to Bergen PAC or go out of town or watch it online.”
Bernstein also found that many aspects of Bergen County stood the test of time, such as the movie theatres, dining experiences and love of sports.
“Sports has stayed pretty much the same way,” Bernstein said, “not to the effect that it was, there were a lot of semi-pro teams in baseball and hockey. But sports have been, and I think always will be, part of Bergen County – whether it be at a high school level or an adult level.”
Bernstein went on to explain that, by and large, many aspects of life in Bergen County have stayed the same. People go to work, run errands, go to school and find time to entertain themselves, with the only changes being how many of those things got done over the years. Even so, Bernstein’s sense of community and desire to foster it keep his lectures going.
“Everybody in Bergen County I consider a family,” Bernstein said, “You could live in Edgewater, you could live in Lyndhurst, you could live in Hillsdale, I think no matter what it’s very important whether it’s an individual family or a group of families or just the towns, that you know what happened. I think it gives you a sense of community. I mean, my wife and I were married 50 years ago, we lived in Hackensack, in 1979 we moved to Emerson. Once we got in, I wanted to know more about the community I’m living in. And so, you start delving into the history.”
Bernstein continues to delve into that history, especially as he visits Van Saun Park in Paramus and the Duck Pond in Ridgewood, which remain his two favorite landmarks in the county.
As the holidays come to a close, Bernstein tilts his lectures towards Bergen’s many traditions, comparing the vibrant personal and public Christmas lights displays of the past and present and highlighting the importance of keeping that communal spirit alive during the season.
“The other thing that I think people should experience at least once maybe,” Bernstein said, “is, if you can do it, volunteer your time down at a place that will serve meals. You don’t have to spend a whole day. You can spend an hour or two, they’re willing to take volunteers just to help other people.”
As Bernstein closes that third lecture, he continues to carry that desire to help Bergen County keep those small but vital parts of our story alive.
HOLY NAME FOUNDATION
The Holy Name Foundation held their annual MS Awards Dinner at The Venetian. For more information, visit www.holyname.org/ms.
Joe and Tina Coccaro
Cathy Davey, Fernando Garip, Kellie Berkoff
Marie Inserra, Frank Siclari
Lisa Futterman, Ron and Clare DiBlasio
Leon Temiz, Sonya Torikoglu, Juliette and Fehmi Sanar
Jim Dorey, Lawrence R. Inserra Jr.
Linda and Philip Cennerazzo
Michael Maron, Leon Temiz
Dr. Thomas Kreibich, Tracee Yablon Brenner, Debbie Bessen
Lauren Sardineer, Susan Zurndorfer, Edward Sardineer
Carmen, Ian and Dr. John DeLuca, Glenn and Amber Wylie
Bert Brondi, Laura DeMartini
Adrienne Krueger, Michie Enriquez Tan, Jen Palzano, Christal Radburn, Nupur Field
Amy Shames, Dr. Asya Wallach, Jaclyn Rance
Cathy Davey, Michael Maron, Dr. John DeLuca, Dr. Fred Foley, Marie Inserra, Lawrence R. Inserra Jr.
Rich Chamberlain Jr., Theresa Inserra
RENO’S APPLIANCE
Reno’s Appliance held their annual pre-holiday party and fundraiser at their beautiful showroom. For more information, visit www.renosappliance.com.
Carmen Zampino, David Villanueva, John Cioletti, Tim Potocki
Sharon Minto, Kimberly Little
Ashley and Pete Kopec, Jessica Cioletti
Dale and Jeff Gellis
Frank and Tracey Todisco
Karl Nelson, John Cioletti, Gerry Cooney
Lisa Hewitt, Laurie Wallace
Kelsey Hessman, Annie Hook, Baylee Bosma, Taylor Nicoletti
Jim Shertz, Colleen Keller, Hubert Wong
Sandy Martucci, Ceejay Dahl, Toni Corrigan
John Cioletti, Gerry Cooney
Lucille and Anthony Rizzo
Debbie O’Brien, Tom Marshall
Mark Ferrara, Jordyn Pennyfeather, Tom White, Carol Madsen, Jim Chalmers
Nancy and Bruce Harper
Carl and Inga Nelson, Nancy and Bruce Harper
Exercising for Bone Health
An Orthopedic Surgeon’s Perspective
By MiChaeL L. gross, Md Faaos
As an orthopedic surgeon, I often encounter patients who are concerned about their bone health. Whether it’s due to aging, a sedentary lifestyle, or a family history of osteoporosis, maintaining strong and healthy bones is a common concern. One of the most effective ways to promote bone health is through regular exercise. This article will review the importance of exercise for bone health, the types of exercises that are most beneficial, and some tips for incorporating these exercises into your daily routine.
The Importance of Exercise for Bone Health
Your skeleton is not the plastic skeleton we are all used to seeing hanging on Halloween. Your bones are living tissues that constantly undergo a process of remodeling, where old bone tissue is broken down and new bone tissue is formed. This process is influenced by various factors, including nutrition, hormones, and physical activity. Exercise plays a crucial role in stimulating bone formation and maintaining bone density. When you engage in weight-bearing and resistance exercises, the mechanical stress placed on your bones stimulates the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. This helps to increase bone mass and strength, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Fun fact: Astronauts who spend prolonged amounts of time in space with reduced gravity are at higher risk for developing temporary osteoporosis.
Types of Exercises for Bone Health
Not all exercises are equally beneficial for bone health. The most effective exercises for strengthening bones are weight-bearing and resistance exercises. Here are some examples:
1. Weight-Bearing Exercises: These exercises involve activities that make you move against gravity while staying upright. Examples include walking, jogging, dancing, and climbing stairs. High-impact weight-bearing exercises, such as running and jumping, are effective in stimulating bone growth, but carry more risk than low-impact exercise. Particularly if you have joint issues or are at risk of fractures, low-impact exercises like brisk walking or using an elliptical machine can also be beneficial and are likely to be safer.
2. Resistance Exercises: These exercises involve using resistance to strengthen muscles and bones. Examples include lifting weights, using resistance bands, and body-weight exercises like push-ups and squats. Resistance training helps to increase muscle mass, which in turn supports and protects your bones.
3. Balance and Flexibility Exercises: While these exercises may not directly increase bone density, they are important for preventing falls and fractures. Activities like yoga, tai chi and Pilates improve balance, coordination and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls that can lead to bone injuries.
4. Stretching: Adding a five-to-ten-minute stretching routine to your regular morning routine will not only have functional benefits but will improve your general feeling of well-being also.
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Five Tips for Incorporating Bone-Healthy
1. Start Slowly: If you are new to exercising, or have been inactive for a while, start with low-impact activities and gradually increase the intensity and duration. This will help to prevent injuries and allow your body to adapt to the new demands. A good rule of thumb has always been to add no more than 10 percent per week, whether duration, weight or intensity.
2. Consistency is Key: Aim to engage in weight-bearing and resistance exercises at least three to four times a week. Consistency is crucial for maintaining bone health and reaping the long-term benefits of exercise.
3. Mix It Up: Incorporate a variety of exercises into your routine to target different muscle groups and prevent boredom. This can also help to reduce the risk of overuse injuries.
4. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds to exercise. If you experience pain or discomfort, modify the activity or seek guidance from a healthcare professional. It’s important to challenge yourself, but not at the expense of your safety.
5. Stay Motivated: Find activities that you enjoy and that fit into your lifestyle. Whether it’s joining a dance class, hiking with friends, or lifting weights at the gym, staying motivated will help you stick to your exercise routine.
Bone density testing, also known as a DEXA scan or bone densitometry, is an important tool for assessing bone health and diagnosing conditions like osteoporosis. Here are some general guidelines for bone density testing in adults:
1. Women aged 65 and older: It’s recommended that all women in this age group undergo regular bone density testing.
2. Men aged 70 and older: Men in this age group should also consider getting tested. Especially if you have any additional risk factors.
3. Postmenopausal women under 65: Testing is recommended if they have risk factors for osteoporosis, such as a family history of the disease, low body weight or previous fractures.
4. Men aged 50-69: Men in this age group should consider testing if they have risk factors like low testosterone levels, a history of fractures or chronic diseases that affect bone health.
5. Adults with certain medical conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease or those taking medications that can affect bone density (e.g., long-term corticosteroid use) may warrant earlier or more frequent testing.
6. Adults who have had a fracture after age 50: A bone density test can help determine if osteoporosis is the cause.
These guidelines can vary based on individual health circumstances, so it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate testing schedule for you. Don’t forget that maintaining calcium and Vitamin D levels, through your regular diet or with supplements, is also a key factor in maintaining bone health.
Conclusion
Exercise is a powerful tool for maintaining and improving bone health. Along with diet and regular testing it should be the cornerstone of your strategy to maintain bone and joint health. By incorporating weight-bearing, resistance, and balance exercises into your routine, you can strengthen your bones, reduce the risk of fractures and enhance your overall well-being. As an orthopedic surgeon, I encourage you to make exercise a regular part of your life and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your bone health or exercise regimen. Remember, it’s never too late to start taking care of your bones!
Dr. Michael Gross was the founder and director of Active Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, treating athletes of all levels in Bergen County. Currently, he is an assistant professor at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. Dr. Gross published many research articles covering a wide variety of orthopedic injuries and topics. He is the author of “Get Well Soon: A Doctor’s Guide to Health and Wellness.”
Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance
Where F1 Technology and the Plush S-Class Meet
By riChard posLuszny
If you haven’t been hiding under a rock, you would know that it’s not only sport-utility vehicles dominating auto sales right now. Since the mid-2010s, there’s been a big push for anything with sporting intentions. I am not merely talking about convertibles and two-seat coupes. I am talking about all nameplates produced by automakers’ performance arms and sub-brands.
Audi has RS, BMW has M and Lexus has F. There are many more. As vaunted models have crept up in price (or have been marked up by dealers) and availability has become largely nonexistent, buyers have deferred to “lite” variants (e.g., BMW M340i) and opted for branded accessories.
That said, enthusiasts always look forward to when the 800-pound gorilla makes its debut. As it relates to luxury sedans, the Mercedes-AMG S63 is the silverback. That’s because it blends the luxury accouterments of the standard S-Class with the latest know-how of its performance division, AMG. That means taking lessons learned from Formula 1 and applying it to Mercedes’ road cars. Obviously, that’s a super ambitious undertaking.
So, did the three-point star deliver?
Visually speaking, the all-new S63 E Performance makes its presence known immediately. That’s
because the AMG-specific Panamericana grille establishes that this isn’t a regular S-Class. There’s other tells too, from its revised front clip that provides better cooling for the twin-turbo engine, to the 21-inch cross-spoke wheels, to the quad-tipped exhaust finishers. Eagle-eyed car geeks will also notice that this Mercedes also has two fuel filler doors — one for gasoline and another to charge it electrically. That’s because this AMG is a plug-in hybrid.
Remember that whole thing about leveraging racing technology? For added performance, there’s a monstrous internal combustion engine (ICE) up front as well as a battery that powers an electric motor located at the rear axle. More about that later.
Getting more comfortable in the cockpit, the interior is largely lifted from the standard S-Class. That means two things: First, it is tech-laden and takes some serious getting used to. Second, it is a lovely place to be from the supple leather adorning the seating, center console, dash and door panels, to the suede-like headliner.
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That said, there are several missteps where there’s some chintzy-looking plastic covering the door sills, the interior A-pillar door triangles and then the rather large wireless charging pad that sticks out from the rear center console. While I admit these are serious nitpicks, I do want to point out the base price is north of $182,000 and this vehicle’s as-tested price was just a smidge beyond $221,000. So, these things do matter.
Diving into the technology, it’s a bit overwhelming. If the 6,500-plus word press release wasn’t already an indicator, the five in-cabin screens — including the tablet located in the rear console — set the tone. Of greatest importance to the driver, the displays for the instrument panel and infotainment are large, crisp and the software operates without any hiccups. The instrument cluster has several settings that can be customized to your liking, and the infotainment screen has a flurry of details and menus that can adjust everything you can, and cannot, imagine.
Take, for example, the Energizing Comfort feature that utilizes the full breadth of the S63’s features to provide an experience. Select one of the settings, like “Vitality” or “Summer Rain,” and be prepared for the sound system, screens, climate control, heating/ cooling/massaging seats, ambient lighting and fragrance to work its magic.
Ultimately, after spending a week inside this AMG, there’s no question: It is an especially plush space whether you’re the driver or a passenger. There’s plenty of room in all directions, it is well-trimmed and pretty quiet — unless you don’t want it to be.
That neatly brings me to my next point. While I could indulge you with all the glitz and whiz-bang features the S63 offers, I’d rather get to the good part. Driving it.
Benefitting from a 4.0-liter, biturbo V8 engine and a battery, specifically designed to enhance performance
via the car’s electric motor, the S63 produces a staggering 791 horsepower and 1,055 lb.-ft. of torque. No, that is not a typo.
Although quite small, bees are intensely connected to the environment and play an important role in the pollination cycle. And, if they aren’t doing well, it isn’t a good sign for the rest of the ecosystem.
Mated with a nine-speed automatic transmission and equipped with all-wheel drive, zero to 60 happens in just over three seconds. Considering this Mercedes-Benz weighs in at over 5,700 pounds, that’s an impressive feat. And, after a week of mixed driving, I chalked up just over 18 mpg.
Between increased development, climate change and the continued use of harmful pesticides, the worldwide bee population is on the decline.
In an effort to try and restore the bee population, the practice of beekeeping has been on the rise and rooftop apiaries have sprung up in many cities, like New York, San Francisco and Seattle.
But there’s more to it than the raw numbers. It’s the way this car works that makes it different. To be honest, it might be one of the most complex vehicles I’ve ever had the chance to pilot. That’s because there are so many different settings across the board.
Hospitals have also been doing their part to improve honeybee health, and, in turn, the environment.
For example, there’s seven driving modes and they completely change everything about the way this S-Class drives. From a rotary dial sticking out on the lower right-hand side of the steering wheel, you can select between Electric, Comfort, Battery Hold, Sport, Sport+, Slippery and Individual. From another rotary dial on the lower left-hand side of the steer-
A growing number of hospitals across the country have joined the rooftop hive movement in recent years, including several across North Jersey: The Valley Hospital, Chilton Medical Center and Morristown Medical Center.
“Establishing the rooftop beehives is in line with
ing wheel you can choose even more performance-related settings. Except it’s not a rotary dial at all. It’s actually two menus and two switches so you can rifle through a series of adjustments from the suspension to the traction control to the exhaust noise to the transmission and more.
our dedication to sustainability, such as recycling, green construction initiatives and reducing our carbon footprint,” Mosser explained.
The bees forage far and wide, pollinating flowers and plants up to two miles from their hives. Then, they return to the colony to begin honey production.
Predominantly I found myself alternating between Comfort and Sport modes. That’s because I thought they suited the car best.
Holy Name Chief of General Surgery Dr. Ron White said, “As a healthcare leader, we are always looking for new opportunities to enhance the health and wellbeing of our community.”
In Comfort, the AMG tends to almost glide along. Thanks to its powerful battery and electric motor combination, that system is doing most of the work. Given that the battery can achieve about 17 miles on a full charge, you can get around, more often than not, solely on electric power. That said, if you need more oomph and put the S63 under greater load, the ICE motor will turn on and give you that extra boost.
The transition is pretty seamless most of the time. One thing I found annoying, however, was that once I used up all the battery’s juice in Comfort mode, the S would constantly be switching between driving only on battery power and flipping on the V8 engine
“With honeybee numbers decreasing worldwide, we’re proud to not only help the honeybees but harvest a sweet, healthy treat for our employees and community,” he said. “Beehives can also serve as a welcome distraction for our hospitalized patients, many of whom have a view of the hives. The distraction and connection with nature also assist in healing.”
White went on, “Also, bees are one of the most important pollinator species for our ecosystem and honey containers beneficial probiotics to aid in health.
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to assist. In stop-and-go traffic it was especially annoying as, now and then, the transition wasn’t exactly smooth as it seemed the powertrain was caught off guard.
In Sport, things get a bit more focused. Overall, the chassis feels a touch firmer, the throttle is a bit more sensitive, the steering gets more weighting, and the V8 engine is switched on all the time. I elevated the experience by opening up the exhaust valves so I could hear more of the eight-cylinder’s music. Frankly, Sport mode seems to be the S63’s sweet spot as everything is working in harmony.
There’s just a couple of wrinkles. First, while this AMG is based on an S-Class, it rides a bit harsh over broken pavement. Even in Comfort. I am not hugely surprised given that previous AMGs I’ve driven have been compromised in this regard. It’s just disconcerting at this price point and the amount of technology being applied. Bentley, for example, produces vehicles as heavy and as fast, but they ride significantly better. Second, I found this particular car to have a really rough shift going from first to second gear in the Sport and Sport+ modes. Considering how the car felt otherwise, it was jarring.
Where the S63 shined, during my time, was on the highway at speed. Honestly, it may be one of the most impressive driving experiences I’ve had in my 17 years of testing vehicles. The blistering power comes on immediately and passing is best described as effortless. At speed, it exceeds what even the best Bentleys can do, in terms of acceleration and sophistication.
Factoring all of these considerations, I walked away from the S63 glad to have had the chance to drive it. But, if it were my money, I wouldn’t buy one. Personally, I think the standard S580 or Mercedes-Maybach cars better deliver on the company’s promise: The best or nothing.
While decadent and fun — on the highway — the S63 is largely spoiled by its overbearing complexity and rough-around-the-edges execution.
Living Their Happily Ever After
A Couple’s Disney-Themed Wish Upon A Pastry
By KiMBerLy redMond
Married life is pretty magical for Michelle and Torre Liebchen.
The husband-and-wife team from Saddle Brook has spent the last three years opening and growing a boutique bakery inspired by their mutual love of all things Disney.
As the owners and operators of Wish Upon a Pastry, the couple works side-by-side crafting handmade confections that bring the magic of “the Happiest Place on Earth” into the heart of Bergen County.
Every Tuesday, the bakery in Midland Park drops a new lineup of decorated sugar cookies based on the beloved theme parks, characters and season. Recent limited time offerings include cookies that look like Mickey Mouse-shaped pumpkins, Winnie the Pooh’s “hunny” pot and Snow White’s poisoned apple.
From time to time, the rotation includes Mickey-shaped beignets – a Disney fan-favorite.
Visitors can also enjoy music from the parks and resorts that plays in store. Or, they can bring whatever official Disney pins they have and trade it in for a different one – just like guests can do at all Disney parks across the world and on the company’s cruise ships.
For the Liebchens, Wish Upon a Pastry is their happy place and somewhere they hope to make “edible dreams” come true. In fact, the mantra for their business is a quote from none other than Walt Disney: “Do what you do so well that they will want to see it again and tell their friends.”
“Owning a business is risky and hard work. And betting on yourself isn’t always easy to do – but it’s always been worth it,” said Michelle, who added, “We love our job, our bakery and the life we created.”
“We value each other and each other’s hard work. It’s really nice to go to work in your own happy place and know that all the hard work that you put in is worth it,” she said.
The bakeshop also makes custom treats to match any theme, from hockey to unicorns to Gucci. It also offers a wide array of retail items – like macarons, ready-to-bake cinnamon buns, assorted ganache bites and Basque cheesecake.
Michelle believes the fact that she and her husband handle everything at Wish Upon a Pastry is what sets them apart from other bakeries.
“Every baked good, every customer interaction, every phone call answered starts and ends with us,” she said, adding that their goal is always “to give our customers the most personal and personalized experience they can have.”
Their Own Happy Place
The venture began as a side gig back in 2019, baking treats mainly for friends and family. At the time, Michelle and Torre were still logging long hours as full-time professional chefs at a steakhouse.
They spent most of their lives working in the industry and met at a fine-dining restaurant where Michelle was the manager and Torre was a sous chef. After managing the eatery for seven years, Michelle spent three years working in the kitchen alongside Torre as a pastry chef.
During the pandemic (when they both found themselves out of work), Michelle and Torre began handing out free boxes of beautifully decorated sugar cookies to neighbors to help brighten their day.
After recipients began posting about the cookies in a Facebook group for local moms, the Liebchen’s business began to grow.
The two continued fulfilling orders for cookies – as well as cakes, cupcakes and other pastries – out of the kitchen in their apartment. Given the increased demand, Michelle and Torre began searching for commercial space to run their bakery.
After looking at several towns in Bergen County, Michelle said they decided to open in Midland Park.
“It’s pretty centrally located and easily accessible to other cities around Northern New Jersey,” she said. “We loved the small-town vibe, and it was close to home, so we wouldn’t be too far from our pups when they needed us.”
Upon opening up a physical shop, the couple was able to expand their business beyond custom orders and started selling grab-and-go treats at retail.
They were also able to offer new kinds of products, like hand poured wax candles reminiscent of Disney Parks experiences, like enjoying a Dole Whip or taking a ride on Pirates of the Caribbean.
Michelle said, “Every order is custom, so we believe everything we create is truly unique. But I would say
our ice cream line is the constant favorite of ours with unique seasonal flavors.”
“Our new fall line that just dropped has flavors like cardamom roasted grape, basil poached pear and maple pumpkin spice latte,” she said. “Our crowd favorites and original two flavors we created are honeycomb and toasted marshmallow.”
Along the way, there’s been some extra sweet moments for the Liebchens, such as getting engaged at Walt Disney World in March 2021 and marrying there in August 2022.
The duo also appeared on season three of Fox’s “Crime Scene Kitchen” last year. For the couple, their bakery had only been open for a few months when they decided to answer a casting notice. After learning they’d made the show, they had to close Wish Upon a Bakery and fly to Atlanta for filming.
As one of the teams competing in the contest, they
were tasked with recreating desserts based on clues discovered in the kitchen. Each dish was then judged by chef Curtis Stone and cake artist Yolanda Gampp, who decide which team was closest to the original mystery item.
Following each challenge, one team is sent home each week until there’s one set of bakers, who will win a $100,000 grand prize. The Liebchens were eliminated on the third episode.
Looking ahead, Michelle said they are excited to continue creating confections to help people celebrate special occasions and important milestones.
“We have been growing with our customers since we first started out. From engagements, to weddings, showers and first birthdays – we’d love to see our close community with our customers grow and continue to thrive,” she said. “But a place in Disney Springs would be pretty cool!”
Wish Upon a Pastry is located at 26 Goffle Road, Suite 6, in Midland Park. It is open Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
GIFT OF LIFE AMERICA
Gift of Life America held their annual Golf Classic at White Beeches Country Club. For more information, visit www.giftoflifeamerica.com.
Nick Laganella, Jim Tedesco
Sherin Elashry, Debbie Cibelli
Diane Chessin, Sharon Goldstein
Chris Guzman, Jordan Wright
Alan Chorm, Tom Aloise
Alicia Bonsall, Samanrha Leichtamer
John Laganella, Brenda Brundage, Frank Pelligra
Molly Martinez, Ashley Coleman
Holly Schepisi, Nick Laganella, Lorraine Swinarton
Dr. Matthew Bonsall, Tommy Constantine
Lorraine Swinarton, Nick Laganella
Samantha Leichtamer, Alicia Bonsall, Nick Laganella, Lorraine Swinarton
The Orange Lantern Team Joe and Michelle Conte
Dan and John LaMothe
Niki Hayden, Dick Oakley
JW Marriott
The Gem of Clearwater Beach
By Brandon goLdstein
Clearwater Beach, Florida, is known for a few things. Of course, it’s the beautiful turquoise waters that first brought tourists to the oceanfront enclave on Florida’s west coast. Then there was the raucous party atmosphere that had this entire gulf town dancing to the wee hours. Now, there’s a new gem: the luxurious JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa.
A short drive from Tampa International Airpot and down the Clearwater Memorial Causeway and you’ve reached your destination: a newly renovated, chic hotel tucked between blue skies and crystal clear waters.
Opened in May of 2023, the resort celebrates JW Marriott’s passion for being together in spaces that are ideal for meaningful, memorable gatherings. Once inside the lobby, and the well thought out architectural design quickly works to desensitize you from the hustle and bustle of life in the outside world - a vacation’s purest intent.
The JW Marriott Clearwater Beach, like most resorts, does not give you many reasons to have to ever step foot off property if you don’t want to. From the second you walk in, it’s the attentive staff’s desire to make you feel at home. Unlike most JW Marriott’s in North America, this one actually is called home - boasting 1, 2 or 3 bedroom residence. When not being used by their primary resident, these bedroom layouts, equipped with a kitchen, dining space, and living room are available as perfect options for traveling with larger groups of vacationers.
Of course while it feels like home, there are plenty of differentiating features about JW Clearwater that make this destination the perfect escape. Walk through the lobby and out the back doors and be greeted by some of the most beautiful salt water views the continental U.S. has to offer. Warm, smooth sand greets your feet, as a kind attendant shows you to your little slice of beach front heaven complete with full food, beverage, and most importantly, cocktail service.
While you may be sitting out there baking under the Florida sun thinking to yourself, “Where is the pool?” - all you have to do is look up!
Eleven floors above this white sand beach paradise is another awaiting oasis: the rooftop pool and hot tub. Spectacular views and private cabana or daybeds make this the ideal hangout for the relaxing traveler looking to soak in some sun. Much like the beach area, the pool area is also full of awaiting attendants happy to bring food and drink right to your chaise lounge.
Traveling with children? The JW Kids Club has you covered. This whimsically designed, kid-perfect area within the resort is the perfect place to let your little ones (ages 5-12 welcome), immerse themselves in educational and fun activities while you get a little well deserved R&R. Different programs, special guests and activities are announced daily, ensuring the kids are never bored while you take that beach yoga class providing you with the perfect balance of relaxation and invigoration.
Of course, if you’re looking to reinvigorate, the fitness center, including Peloton bikes and freeweights, is open 24/7. After a good sweat, walk on over to the luxurious Spa by JW. Complete with a spa lounge and four treatment suites, the Spa allures guests with its opulent locker rooms including steam room and sauna - or simply make an appointment at the in-house nail salon for a manicure or pedicure before letting those feet out in public!
While those visiting Clearwater Beach may have plans that involve stepping foot beyond the resort’s palatial grounds, the foodie that lives inside all of us will quickly want to return. Venture out and grab some fresh caught seafood - which is ultimately fried anyway - and then return to JW for some truly unique and memorable meals - or the 24/7 room service.
You’ll start your day at the JW Market, a cafe and shop with a fresh lineup of caffeinated beverages and light fare perfectly setting the tone for the days bathing suit worthy activities. Looking for something a bit more decadent for breakfast? The JW’s flagship restaurant, Latitude 28, is open for breakfast and dinner. While breakfast items such as lobster Benedict grace the breakfast menu7-11a.m. - Latitude 28 truly shines at dinnertime.
Latitude 28 invites guests to savor a unique coastal adventure and experience the resort’s elevated approach to modern Florida cuisine, all set against sweeping views of the pristine Clearwater shoreline.
At Latitude 28, guests are welcomed into a stunning indoor dining room that balances coastal sophistication with laid-back elegance or an inviting patio where the ocean breeze and sunset views create an unforgettable alfresco experience. Helmed by Executive Chef Inder Suryawanshi, Latitude 28’s menu seamlessly blends local Gulf ingredients with global influences resulting in dishes that are both familiar and exciting.
During the day, ESKAPE Beach Bar & Grille, as well as The Deep End, offer beach and pool guests, respectively, more casual dining options while they dip their toes in the sand. At night, the lobby bar, buzzing with sun-soaked faces, provides the perfect setting for a night capor those just having their first cocktail before leaving the resort and experiencing Clearwater Beach’s robust nightlife for themselves.
On a small parcel of Clearwater Beach, JW Marriott has cemented itself as a luxurious destination right outside of Tampa Bay. Whether hosting events and meetings, weddings and other conferences, the resort was designed to keep the chill mood of a beach front vacation alive - finding seamless ways to integrate eight event rooms into a bustling resort where neither event participant or beach goer collide - yet simultaneously are treated to the luxurious service JW has to offer.
If you find your way to Clearwater Beach, there’s only one destination worth staying at. The JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa has everything one needs to have a fantastic time. Whether with family, on a solo trip, with friends or that significant someone, JW Clearwater beach finds ways to make your trip feel special. What more could you want? Oh, a dog friendly resort, you say? Yep, JW Clearwater is that, too.
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The XO World Project Foundation held their inaugural fundraiser at The Rockleigh Equestrian Center. For more information, visit www.xowpfoundation.org.
Colleen Brennan, Dr. Stephanie Cohen
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