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Bogota www.BogotaSavingsBank.com Parsippany Oak Ridge Teaneck Newark Hasbrouck Heights Branch Locations In: *This is an E-Statement savings account that offers a 1.00% interest rate and 1.01% APY (Annual Percentage Yield). Interest will be earned and credited monthly. Minimum opening balance of $50.00. Super Kids Club Savings Account is available to children under 18 years of age. Only one account per child is eligible to earn a $10 bonus. If account is closed within one year of opening, the $10 match will be forfeited. Please visit our website for specific account information and fee schedule. Subject to change without prior notice. The bank is not responsible for any errors or misrepresentations. Rate valid as of June 13, 2022.**APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Call To Learn More Today! (201) 862 - 8637 Celebrate Their Summer With A Super Kids Club Savings Account * 1.01%APY ** Deposit at least $100 & we will add a $10 bonus!
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Publishers
sharon & steven goldstein
Associate Publisher Brandon goldstein
Editorial Director
JessiCa huMphrey-Cintineo
Art Director
BMg Marketing
Contributing Writers
Dr. Jen AltmAn
SheilA m. ClAnCy, mS, CheS
tArA Delorenzo
mArilyn KAtzmAn
StephAnie F. lehmAn
AuDrey zonA
BC Health, Beauty & Fitness is published by BC The Mag.
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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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4
A Letter from the editor
We have one of those smart scales in our household. Since your physical health involves so much more than just your weight, we thought our scale should display more than just that number.
Ours, while not the most elaborate one, tracks body mass index (BMI), a measure of body fat based on height and weight; body fat percentage; skeletal muscle; muscle mass; bone mass; and other health metrics. In addition to taking your measurements, the scale connects to our phones so we can track our trends.
I rarely – if ever – step on it.
I was the girl who’d waddle onto the scale during my two pregnancies and remind the kind-hearted nurse, “I don’t want to know how much I weigh.” So, no, my smart scale and I are not besties. I know roughly what I weigh based on how my clothes fit, and that’s typically good enough for me.
Recently, however, I went to the doctor for a routine check-up (one admittedly that should be yearly, yet somehow over a year went by). I stepped on the scale and was surprised – in a good way – by the number staring back me.
“You’ve lost quite a bit of weight since I last saw you,” said my doctor. “Has that been intentional?”
“Yes and no,” I replied. “I’ve been working out more consistently and really focusing on strength training.”
“Whatever you are doing, keep it up,” she smiled.
With my curiosity peaked, I stepped on the smart scale upon returning home. I was baffled not just by my weight, BMI and muscle mass, but also by my new categorization: Athlete Mode.
I’ve never been called an athlete in my life. Yet now I, a mother of two, have. Now I am.
Why do I tell you all this? Relying on motivation (to look good at your high school reunion, to fit into that Mother of the Bride dress, to lose 5 pounds before your vacation) only gets you so far. Consistency is far better than rare moments of greatness.
And, that goes for more than fitness, friends.
Sending you love and health, JessiCa
huMphrey-Cintineo
6
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8 Table of Contents 10 The Doctor Is In Dr. Suzanne Soliman On Finding Balance, Creating Networks and Sharing Knowledge 18 Being An Ally LGBTQ+ Alliance Provides Resources and Awareness 22 Flowing Into Summer 26 Eating Healthier Without Changing Everything 28 Dial Up Flavor with Summer Favorites Recipes, Tips & Tricks to Enjoy Summer 2023 Deliciously 34 This Summer, Be Present In The Natural World 38 Reservation For One, Please Seven Recommendations For Venturing Out Alone 40 A Divorce Lawyer’s Perspective Divorcing Parents’ Battle The Challenge of A Child With ADHD 44 Let’s Unplug 48 Pump Up the Jams Jani Gives His Tips to Building the Ultimate Workout Playlist 50 Understanding Strokes 52 10 22 Disclaimer: This information is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All materials provided in this publication are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified heath care provider with any questions you have regarding a medical condition before undertaking any diet, exercise, health program or procedure set out in this publication. 34
The Doctor Is In
Dr. Suzanne Soliman On Finding Balance, Creating Networks and Sharing Knowledge
By tara delorenzo
In an effort to not only create a supportive community but to also make pharmaceutical knowledge more accessible, Dr. Suzanne Soliman has launched an Instagram and Tik Tok page, @ drsuzannesoliman, to help give out no-nonsense advice, which will now feature a monthly live show inspired by questions Soliman is asked.
Soliman, a current resident of Norwood, has an extensive pharmaceutical background. After earning her PharmD from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Pharmacy (UIC-COP), she went on to complete a residency in primary care, with a focus in education, at Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy and a teaching fellowship at UIC College of Medicine. Soliman worked then as a clinical pharmacist, a medical science liaison and an educator before going on to becoming an Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs at UIC-COP. She was also an Associate Dean at Touro College of Pharmacy New York and an independent pharmacy owner. Currently, she is the Chief Health Officer at the Accreditation Council for Medical Affairs (ACMA), which is in Oradell, and is a global organization that provides solutions for certification, training, analyt-
ics and insights to support the healthcare and life sciences industries.
And in addition to this extensive resume, she is also a mother of five, so when juggling became harder to balance, she turned to social media to find other moms in her situation.
“I was really stressed out with work-life balance and being a mom, so I went to the internet and looked for other moms like me who were pharmacists who were similarly stressed out and didn’t know how to figure out the balance. I couldn’t find a lot of pharmacist groups, so I started my own, and within a month we were at a thousand members. Now, we’re at a little over 40,000 members of pharmacist moms in the country and women pharmacists,” Soliman said. “We talk about things from what to make for dinner to what’s happening with shortages, which is especially relevant right now with drug shortages.”
She now has more than 62,000 followers on Instagram and 11,000 on Tik Tok.
Continued on Page 12
“I did not intend to do anything on social media. I was just stressed out and I was missing my son’s games because as a pharmacist, you have to work nights and weekends and holidays, and I felt like a terrible mom who was missing all of my son’s baseball games and then it was like, ‘Well I must not be the only other person feeling this,’” she said. “I really didn’t expect the response I got too; it took off organically.”
Two-thirds of pharmacists are women, said Soliman, and for her, what really got her interested in the field was making an impact on society in patients. Her main areas of interest include parenting, women’s health, vitamins and supplements and the pharmaceutical industry.
With her job with the ACMA too, she can work with pharma companies and help accredit organizations to ensure rules and regulations are being followed so the overall safety of the patients and healthcare system is looked after. The organization can work on certification programs and training healthcare providers who are leading clinical trials to make sure there is more accountability.
“We do a lot of work for the pharma industry to really help to get everything into place and help raise the bar for patients, and that’s my goal,” she said.
Another current topic Soliman is increasingly interested in is nutrient deficiencies and how medication’s potential side effects can affect a patient. And more than that, it’s the education she’s most interested in.
“Even if you pop an Advil, it’s like it can affect your vitamin D, so think about that when you’re taking Advil for a couple days. Every medication you’re taking does impact your vitamin and micronutrient absorption,” she said. “I’m really passionate about educating people on that because I don’t think we do a good enough job with that.”
That’s where her Instagram and channel come most into play. When her group started, it was mostly to meet other women in pharmacy who were mothers and to grow a network, but then her reach expanded, and she began getting questions and gaining followers who weren’t just in the pharmacist or physician
fields, but that just wanted answers to medical questions.
“My goal is to just educate the public on a lot of these medications and questions and shed more light,” Soliman said.
With the questions she was getting and the information she had to share, she has now started to do month lives for people to tune in to, which will take place the first Wednesday of every month. January’s session was related to the thyroid, as it was Thyroid Awareness Month, but over the rest of the year, she wants to focus more of her lives shows to brain health, including sleep disorder and related topics.
Her goal for her platforms is to make the knowledge of the pharma industry more accessible to patients and help them understand how the different medications can really affect them.
“I want to empower patients to have a better understanding of their healthcare and to answer any questions they have,” she said. “My goal is to bring a lot more transparency to the pharma industry and to also our health, what we’re eating, what we’re taking in, and what the importance is.”
And making that difference for her is what is her favorite part of working both at the ACMA and the platforms she uses.
“I think as the platform grew, I was initially shocked, but as it grew, I felt there was a purpose, and my goal is to help others. I can’t take it lightly,” Soliman said. “I’ve learned that what I’ve put out there can make a difference. Initially, my channel started out for pharmacists and moms, and now I get messages from people all over who are just parents who like the content and are interested. I’ve seen people are interested in taking more ownership of their health and so far, it’s made a difference for me, and it feels like my purpose now is to help educate on what’s going on.”
Continued on Page 14
Looking forward, Soliman is looking to add interviews to her channel and hopes to be able to do more both locally and nationally. She is also working on a book that will cover healthcare issues related to vitamin supplements and medications.
And just as much as she is looking to make a difference in the lives of those going to her platform, it’s a support system that has also changed her life.
“When I first moved to Norwood and just Bergen County in general, I didn’t realize how many other pharmacist moms there were and we had a meetup, and I met 25 women for dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Paramus. I think this network has shown me how small the world is,” Soliman said. “What I’ve learned is we’re all somehow connected, and for me it’s shown we’re all really connected in different ways, and this network has been there for me in good and bad times, and that’s what we do for one another – just support one another through everything, we were together in the pandemic when pharmacists were the first giving out vaccinations, treating patients when people didn’t know what was going on back then, and people were coming to the
pharmacy. Forming relationships pre- and post-pandemic has been great and then for moving into a new area, it’s been great for me having a support system in place.”
To those looking for a community too, Soliman encourages people to investigate different outlets too, and if there isn’t one available, to start one up, much like she did for this network.
“For anyone reading, know your goals or whatever you intend to do, you can accomplish them,” she said. “It might sound cliche, but you can. I never thought I’d be doing what I’m doing and if you’re thinking of starting your own business or thing, do it. It’s never too late to invest in yourself.”
More information about Dr. Suzanne Soliman can be found on her website at drsuzannesoliman.com, as well as on her Instagram @drsuzannesoliman. Her Instagram live show will take place the first Wednesday of each month.
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Find a physician: Call 833-234-2234 or visit ehpn.org
Allendale Foundation for Educational Excellence
The AFEE held their annual auction and dinner at the Edgewood Country Club. For more information, visit www.afeenj.org.
16 Social
Brianne and Greg Szep, Kim Coleman
Lauren Ikin, Amy Marrufo
Emily Lamond, Morgan Blanco Rivas, Meghan Pagano
Lauren Natoli, Jen Jacobsen
John and Jill Relay
Emily Lamond, Morgan Blanco Rivas
Anna Chung, Nicole Weiss
Karen Depol, Shannon Rutowski, Danielle Walter
Lauren Buckner, Jill Relay, Jacquelyn DiFrancesco
Meredith and Brian Dlug
Lisa Kane, Donna Cafarelli
Arnaldo and Liz Cortorreal, Jeff Rugg
Mark and Julia Simunek, Crista and Donald McKenna
Mark Margagliotta, Lillian and Greg Warner
Denise Rothe, Kerina Singh, Kristen Abbate
William and Medy Murphy, Terri and Ed O’Connell, Hyun and Andrew Kyung
Being An Ally
LGBTQ+ Alliance Provides Resources and Awareness
By Marilyn katzMan
As we begin to learn more about hateful incidents against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people, such as the Colorado Springs shooting at Club Q last fall, some people may have questions about how to best support their LGBTQ+ loved ones. Witnesses had described the club as a place where they could be themselves, a concern reiterated by Jess Horan, a youth coordinator for the Bergen County LGBTQ+ Alliance (BCLA). Horan, who has experienced bias herself, wanted to be involved with the organization that advocates for the LGBTQ+ community in Bergen County.
The alliance was formed in 2021 by Anthony Torres and Nick O’Neill to raise awareness of the community, providing resources to support youth and reduce isolation for seniors. They have helped people with issues as challenging as youth homelessness, violence against transgender women and living with HIV. The BCLA website includes information ranging from
vaccine locations to senior monthly meetings, weekly youth support groups and access to mental health resources.
When Horan became a board member of BCLA, she came up with an idea to provide gender-affirming clothing for teens and young adults. She approached Cassandra Francavilla, chair of Dumont’s Cultural Affairs, Inclusivity, Diversity & Celebration Committee, to ask for help setting up Threadz, an inaugural event to be held at the Dumont Senior Center.
“We received great support from our borough leaders and the community,” said Francavilla. “Tons of clothing and shoes were donated as well as accessories and personal items. Residents volunteered to ensure it remained a safe environment for LGBQ youth to be themselves.”
Threadz has since relocated to the Cresskill Congre-
18 NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
gational Church UCC, where teens and young adults can pick out free clothing that suits their identity. Horan works closely with the Rainbow Café located in the church.
“They can choose clothing items they feel most comfortable in,” said Horan. “I knew LGBTQ+ students would look to me on how I reacted to adversity and show them that good things can come out of bad situations.”
Additionally, volunteers are available to do alterations on the spot while Threadz is open.
“Threadz is a great place for people to find clothing they feel comfortable in, in an accepting environment,” said high school senior Kiera Redfern. “As someone who wears masculine clothing, it is sometimes uncomfortable to shop in the men’s section, but at Threadz, they help me get clothes which make me feel like my true self.”
At the Rainbow Café, youth in grades 6-12 attend dances and a lounge with an open mic, karaoke and board games.
“It’s simply a safe place for the kids,” said Carolyn Schinkel, a volunteer senior advisor to the Café.
“Twelve years ago, kids didn’t have a place to go,” she noted. “Teachers, guidance counselors and therapists will often refer parents to the Café as a social place where their gay child in need of friends can go.”
The youth programs are not religious and are open to all. An LGBTQ+ book group for grades 9-12 is also available at the church.
The alliance has surveyed people at Pride events and through social media to assess needs and demonstrate that there is a significant LGBTQ+ population in Bergen County.
“We need resources here for people who are local residents and shouldn’t have to go to New York City to deal with problems and have a fulfilling life,” said O’Neill.
To learn more, visit www.bergencountylgbtq.org or www.rainbowcafennj.org.
The Bergen Irish Association
The BIA held their 59th annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Dance at Seasons. For more information, visit www.bergenirish.org.
20 Social
Jean and Sean Considine Kerri Sheehan, Michele Verrone
Angelina Kourgelis, Cara Larkin
Angelina, Michael and Margaret Kourgelis
The Bergen Irish Association
Gerry Ginley, Tadhg Donegan
John O’Shea, Margaret Kourgelis
Daria McCabe, Bobby and Theresa Power
Thana and Kiki Kourgelis, Dan Larkin, Margaret and John Kourgelis
Mary Lynch, Terry Donegan
Carl Carfello, Michael Hennessy Tristen Calvitto, Terry Considine
Gerry and Roseleen Ginley Kathleen and Fiona Larkin, Richard Totellot
Anne Marie Mitchell, Carmel Berney, Terry Montgomery, Eileen Hennessy
Diane and Kevin Boyle
Flowing Into Summer
By dr. Jen altMan
Iadmire people who seem nonplussed by the things that stress me out. Unfazed by life’s demands, they move through daily challenges with purpose and satisfaction. There is a word for this state of being – it’s called “flow.”
Flow is described as a state of intense engagement, focus and contentment in the present moment. In flow, you have a feeling of calm. You’re absorbed in a task, but not stressed out or worried by it. You feel less self-conscious and even less anxious. This lasts beyond the experience itself, since being in a state of flow balances stress levels. It is a wonderful experience and even the most mundane tasks can become rewarding.
In considering this phenomenon, and always searching for ways to make small shifts to improve my own mindset, I propose summertime is the perfect opportunity to find your “flow.”
The discovery of “flow” starts with mindfulness. Mindfulness gets a lot of buzz these days – and may seem elusive or intimidating. At its core it’s about paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment. The pace of day-to-day life makes it difficult to feel like we are truly present. We do our best but when tasked with fulfilling obligations and meeting deadlines during the school year it feels like a burden. You might notice the same tasks become less burdensome when the weather gets warmer and the days get longer. When you think about it, it’s not the demands that change, it’s our attitude.
So, how can we create this sense of energized peace?
Get outdoors. Nature is the best serotonin booster! Nothing brings you into a moment like smelling fresh cut grass, appreciating the lush greenery that overtakes our neighborhoods, feeling the sun on your face. It centers you, grounds you and focuses your attention.
Make time for real self-care. When someone you love wants to do something fun, you encourage them to do so. Time to give yourself that same permission. Self-care isn’t just about massages and relaxing – it’s about embracing creativity, trying pickleball, planning a getaway with your partner or friends. It’s not selfish – it broadens your mindset, enhances joy and creates flow.
Be mindful. Mindfulness is a skill you can practice. It takes repetition to make it a part of your daily life. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help. Apps like Calm and Insight Timer provide exercises and guided meditations (sometimes by celebrities!). The Krame Center in Ramsey is devoted to teaching mindfulness and offers classes as well as free meditation sessions (thekramecenter.org). It doesn’t take a huge commitment to improve.
When the school year ends, so does the intensity of daily preparation and managing the lives of the littles. There are fewer places to have to be. Even when there are schedules, bringing children to camps where they play all day or do their favorite things without the onus of math, social studies and spelling tests is inevitably more exciting and fun. Summertime brings fewer distractions and more space. A pause in the book report/ bake sale/PTO obligations means more time available to do, well, less. Or more of what makes you happy. And when you can finally focus your attention – that’s when you find your flow.
Dr. Jen Altman is a New York- and New Jersey-licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience. She is currently in private practice in Saddle River. Dr. Altman works with children, teens and adults dealing with a variety of issues related to anxiety, depression, learning differences, motivation, social skills and family conflict. Dr. Altman consults with schools, offers professional development workshops, writes social-emotional learning curriculum and presents on a wide variety of topics. Dr. Altman is also the mother of two amazing teens, and co-creator of The Worry Chest.
Find out more at www.drjenaltman.com.
Bergen CASA Casino Night
Bergen CASA for Children held their annual Casino Night at Seasons. For more information, visit www.bergencasa.org.
24 Social
Zonie LeSane, Lorraine Joewono, Lucy Rosen
Scott Kligman, Alex Heller
Alyssa Molarz, Aneta and Mark Wygonik
Lisa Press, Fran Kalman
Chris Poliandro, Lindsay Crawford Tom and Chris Ayers Chip and Margo Giamo Mindy and Goldie Felixbrod
Karen and Dr. Eric Avezzano
Joe and Elizabeth DeGregorio, Michele and Keith Waller
Edward and Kelly Nestor Sunhi Lee, Jenny Han, Wan Youh, Zonie LeSane
Lindsey and Marc Blatt David and Nancy Kennedy, Jesse and Mary Claire Garrett, Eileen Smith
Sonia Labozzetta, Samera Martinez, Dulce and Jeff Kontak
Suzanne Ordas Curry, Zonie LeSane, Lucy Rosen, Kristine Gifford, Patty Rafferty, Dina Zyddor
Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County
Habitat for Humanity held their annual gala event at Seasons. For more information, visit www.habitatbergen.org.
Social
Teri Caparelli, Jon and Sue Senos
Rose Mary Klie, Donnalee Corrieri
Telizabeth Lopez, Jessica Rodriguez Cat Garruto, Doug Crosby, Sharron Halpert
Andy Baron, Paul Nyfenger, Arlo Sanchez, Michelle Blanyar
Jamie and Carrie Nielsen Teri Caparelli, Annamaria Not, Sue Cola, Fatima Becerril
Gina Hernandez, Shana Sanchez, Jorge Ledesma, Diane Rothman
Tia and Vladimir Salomon Pete and Donna Koeniges Tricia McInerney Jansen, Roxanne Camejo, Jennifer Sullivan
Adela Wekselblatt, Shonya Jordan, Debra Vial
Brian Hague, Tony Russo, Teri Caparelli, Julia Pangburn, Kathy Agudo, Bill Hanson
Sonja Clark, Kurt Breitenstein, Joanne Westphal
Karen Roberts, Sonja Clark, Roxanne Camajo
Rose Alvarado, Taylor Smith, Melissa Walsh, Monica Rivera
Dial Up Flavor with Summer Favorites
Recipes, Tips & Tricks to Enjoy Summer 2023 Deliciously
Savory Mango Chamoy Daquiri
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Rim Glass:
2 Tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce
2 Tablespoons Tajín Clásico Seasoning
Drink:
4 Tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce, divided
1 cup frozen mango cubes, plus additional for garnish, divided
1/3 cup natural syrup
3 ice cubes
1/3 cup orange juice
1 Tablespoon Tajín Clásico Seasoning, for garnish
To rim glass: Rim glass in chamoy hot sauce then seasoning.
To make drink: Blend 3 tablespoons chamoy hot sauce, mango cubes, syrup, ice cubes and orange juice.
In glass, pour remaining chamoy hot sauce.
To serve, garnish with additional mango cubes and sprinkle with seasoning.
BC Eats
Spiced Pork Ribs
Total time: 3 hours, 10 minutes
Servings: 6
2 racks (about 4 pounds) baby back ribs
1/4 cup Tajín Clásíco Seasoning
1/4 cup Tajín Mild Hot Sauce, plus additional for serving, divided
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 Tablespoons brown sugar
lime wedges, for serving mashed potatoes or steamed rice, for serving (optional)
Rub ribs with seasoning. Marinate at least 4 hours or overnight in refrigerator.
Preheat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine hot sauce, oil and brown sugar; brush over both rib racks.
Line baking sheet with double layer of aluminum foil with enough overhang to wrap foil around ribs.
Lay ribs, bone side down, on foil-lined baking sheet. Wrap foil around ribs and seal. Place on baking sheet.
Fill large baking dish or roasting pan with 2 inches of boiling water. Place on lower oven rack to keep ribs moist as they bake. Place ribs on middle oven rack.
Bake 2 1/2-3 hours, or until meat is tender and just starting to fall off bone.
Preheat broiler. Unwrap ribs and place on foil-lined baking sheet. Broil 4-6 minutes on middle oven rack, or until lightly charred and caramelized.
Serve
Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed white rice, if desired.
with lime wedges and additional hot sauce.
Ripe For the Picking
Understanding How and When To Buy Fruit
Keeping fresh fruit around the house provides a healthier alternative when your sweet tooth comes calling. Understanding how and when to buy at the peak of ripeness (or just before, in some cases) can help you avoid food waste while keeping your doctor happy.
Consider these simple tips for recognizing ripe fruits:
• Strawberries: Check the area at the top of the berry near the stem and leaves. A ripe strawberry is fully red; green or white near the top means the fruit is underripe.
• Watermelon: The “field spot,” or the area where the melon sat on the ground, should be yellow, and a tap on the rind should produce a hollow sound.
• Cherries: Flesh should appear dark with a crimson color and feel firm.
• Blueberries: Similar to cherries, color should deepen to dark blue. A reddish or pink color may be visible in unripe berries.
• Blackberries: Look for a smooth texture without any red appearance. Because blackberries don’t ripen after being picked, they tend to spoil quickly.
• Cantaloupe: You should detect a sweet smell, and the melon should feel heavy upon lifting.
• Peaches: A sweet, fragrant odor should be apparent. Skin should feel tender but not soft.
• Pineapple: Smell is again an important factor for pineapple – a sweet scent shows it’s ready, but a vinegary one likely means it’s overripe.
• Raspberries: Generally follow the same rules as blackberries. Best eaten within a couple days of purchse, a bright red color represents ripe berries.
• Bananas: A ripe banana features a peel lightly spotted without significant bruising. Your best bet may be to purchase bananas still slightly green and allow them to ripen at home.
BC Eats
Fizzy Orange Pineapple Punch
1 can (46 ounces) pineapple juice, chilled
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (6 ounces) frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
1 bottle (2 liters) ginger ale
6-8 scoops orange sherbet orange slices, for garnish mint leaves, for garnish
In large punch bowl, combine pineapple juice, condensed milk and orange juice concentrate. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Before serving, add ginger ale and top with scoops of sherbet, orange slices and mint.
Eating Healthier Without Changing Everything
By sheila M. ClanCy Ms, Ches
The foods we eat can help our bodies function better, give us more energy and keep our weight in check, or it can make us feel sluggish, add unwanted pounds and exacerbate conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. While “eating healthier” sounds scary, it is doable and doesn’t mean you have to ditch your favorite foods. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1) Don’t eat the exact same foods every day. If you don’t change things up a little bit there is a good chance you are missing a few vitamins or minerals. If you love having a sandwich for lunch, switch it up in a few different ways. Try a wrap instead of bread, try mustard instead of mayo, try adding sliced cucumbers, lettuce, tomato, arugula, or spinach and add some herbs or spices such as oregano, parsley or basil.
2) Try to have protein at every meal. Some of us are eating a carb heavy diet with lots of pasta, rice, bread and potatoes. This can contribute to insulin
resistance and make you more susceptible to developing Type 2 Diabetes. Make those portions smaller and add protein to the meal. Some examples could be eggs at breakfast (or anytime!), tuna or peanut butter at lunch and lean meat such as chicken or fish at dinner. Even adding protein to a snack is a good idea such as peanut butter on an apple, Greek yogurt with fresh fruit in it, or carrot sticks dipped in hummus.
3) Add a side salad to your dinner and eat that first. You can buy a premade salad to start so it doesn’t seem like a giant undertaking. Or you can buy a mix of already cut up lettuce or spring mix and then you add in whatever you like. Instead of pouring the salad dressing all over it, dip your fork in the dressing and then into the salad. That way you get the taste of dressing without drowning the salad in it.
4) Add in more fiber. The American Heart Association recommends we eat 25-30 grams of fiber per day, but the average American eats about 15 grams
per day. You can get more fiber in your diet by adding chia seeds, flax seeds, avocado, beans, fruits and vegetables to your day. Seeds can go into salad, yogurt or oatmeal and try adding fruit as a snack or put it into cereal or a smoothie. Vegetables are versatile and many can be eaten raw, cooked, hot or cold. While many of us have already made it clear which ones we like or don’t like, there are many different ways to prepare vegetables and it is worth another try to taste some different ones. Different cultures prepare foods differently so don’t be afraid to try something new.
5) Prepare most of your food yourself and back off on eating out. When you prepare your own food, you know exactly what is in it and you control your portion sizes. You can spend a little extra time on Sunday preparing a couple of meals and then pack them up, so they are ready for the week. You can bring your prepared food to work, or it will be ready for you to heat up when you get home.
6) Drink more water. We drink to keep our bodies hydrated. It doesn’t sound like a big deal, but water helps control blood pressure, maintains kidney function, keeps your digestive system regular, protects joints and maintains body temperature. To add more water to your day, try drinking a glass before or after your morning coffee, drink a bottle on the way to work and keep a bottle on your desk. If you need a little flavor, try adding cut up lemons, limes or cucumbers to the water.
What we eat is directly related to how we feel. Putting food in your body is like putting gas in your car. We want to put in the fuel that we need for our bodies to run optimally. Eating healthier can start with adding in the vitamins and minerals that we need instead of focusing on taking things out of our diet. Variety is key to getting all the nutrients that you need, and it helps to keep things fresh and exciting. Consider it an adventure to try different foods and recipes and enjoy the process of eating healthier.
Heel the Soul
The Englewood Health Foundation held their annual Heel the Soul event at Montammy Country Club. For more information, visit www.englewoodhealthfoundation.org.
32 Social
Haly Samuels, Hilary Stone, Karen Todd
Jordan, Ali, Marna and Michael Todd Steve Bergman, Robin and Todd Rosenfeld
Michelle Bergman, Nancy and Josh Gillon
Jennifer Peykar, Sari Albom
Sandra Sgambatti, Chrissy and Ali Weiselberg
Tracy Fishel, Angella Stefanakis
Diane Rothman, Debbie Satnick, Amy Shirvan
Lisa and Mark Spivack, Stacy Esser
Dan Polman, Melissa Pierro
Keith Klein, Joanne Ehrlich, Michael Gutter
Tara Jagid, Dana Runyon, Romy Jagid
Carol and Alan Shalom
Melissa Donzis, Samantha Mayer
Debbie Ehrlich, Ben Laub, Melissa Ehrlich
Alex Smith, Ian and Lauren Schwartz, Dara Smith
Show Me Your Heart Foundation
The SMYH Foundation held their Valentine’s Day hat luncheon at The Shops at Riverside. For more information, visit www.smyhfoundation.com.
Social
Monica Martin, Lana Randazzo
Amy Soto, Swati Bhutada, Uma Taneja
Edel and Dennis Pfisterer, Aaron Goldworm, Anna Yarygina
Heather Choi, Daya Burton
Liza and Josh Baty
Geri Oppler, Marla Sacks
Teryn Chamberlain, Tiffany Chandler
Shamina and Jay Dow, Heather Choi
Angela Franco, Karen Marden, Christine Christopoul
Kwanghee Jung, Boh Yeon Han, Hana Ahn
Melissa Choi, Dr. Bushra Helmandi, Yocaira Arjona
Charlie and Geri Oppler
Nanor Kradjian, Olga Wanna
Soneca Guadara, Reshma Thomas, Kimberly Williams, Dr. Jumana Chalabi
Heather Choi, Stephen Percy, Sheila Wolfinger
Yocaira Arjona, Dr. Bushra Helmandi, Hana Ahn, Laurel Epstein, Susan Azarman
This Summer, Be Present In The Natural World
By audrey zona
e made it! It’s summertime again! Warmer days, more daylight, less structure and an abundance of fruits, veggies, flowers and colors. It’s always so much easier to feel close to the natural world during the summer, isn’t it? There’s a reason for that.
Starting when Joyce was a little girl, she would observe — and eventually participate in — the food preparation. Joyce says she was lucky that her mother was a wonderful cook that taught her about the love of food and family. During those gatherings, her mother, aunts and grandmother would be humming with activity in the kitchen. This served as her training grounds. For example, this is where Joyce first learned about sofrito and how to cook, as she describes, using “layering” techniques. By doing so, it adds more dimensionality to her respective dishes.
Wand nutritional benefits. These natural ingredients also make it taste refreshing, slightly sweet and delicious. I invite you to try the following: lemon, a natural detoxifier and aids with bloating and fluid retention; lime, helps with digestion and a natural detoxifier; cucumber, helps cool the inflammatory response in the body and reduces puffiness and bloating and flushes toxins; mint, soothes the stomach and reduces inflammation; basil, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacteria; ginger, aids in digestion; and berries, high in antioxidants and boosts immunity.
It’s only recently in our evolutionary process that we, as humans, have become disconnected from the Earth. But our connections are still deep and when we take the time to be physically present in the natural world, those connections and the positive electricity and vibes we get from them have tons of benefits for our bodies and our minds.
You may also drink iced herbal tea and get the benefits with a little more flavor. Add lemon or mint to iced tea and you will not only feel refreshed, but like you’re hydrating without the boredom of “another glass of water.”
This was merely the start though. That’s because Joyce also spent time with her relatives in France. She fondly remembers summers outside of Avignon and preparing food with her grandmother. Together, they’d go through the fields picking wild rosemary and wild thyme, placing the herbs in her grandmother’s folded apron. Something tells me this likely inspired Joyce’s use of the freshest possible ingredients for her empanadas — more on that later.
Believe it or not, being “physically present” in the natural world can be as simple as taking off our shoes, walking outside and standing in the grass. Renewing our relationship with nature, a practice known as “grounding,” helps realign our bodies with the rhythm of the earth and provides benefits like stress and anxiety management and a lowering of inflammation. Think about when you were a child. You’d lie in the grass for hours, staring at the clouds and the sky, dreaming and allowing your mind to
Eating To Hydrate
In addition to drinking the appropriate amount of water for your weight and activities, eating water rich foods is another way to increase hydration. These include cucumber, watermelon, zucchini, strawberries, tomatoes, peaches, cantaloupe, broccoli, cauliflower, apples, pears, 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 some of the world’s best pastry chefs call France home, and the country’s well known for its delicious desserts. Although he was not able to successfully bootstrap his own bakery once he made it stateside, that didn’t stop him from pursuing his burning passion. For family gatherings he would meticulously prepare the most wonderful treats, says Fragoso.
many more. Eating a salad made from water rich veggies and fruit will not only help with hydration but provide your body with nutrients and fiber as well.
wander. Have you ever stopped to wonder why we’ve gotten out of that habit as adults? Maybe it’s time for all of us to go back to lying on the grass in our yards or the sand at the beach, listening to the birds and breathing. I know when I take the time do this, even for 10 minutes, I become centered, calm and focused. The good news is, once the weather gets chilly again, or when it’s rainy outside, a grounding mat can mimic the feeling you get from the earthbody connection.
With this type of upbringing and emphasis on bringing joy to people via delightful dishes, it makes sense why Joyce was driven to open Girl From Empanada. Simply put, it’s in her DNA.
Unlike other ways we try to increase our health, drinking water daily is an inexpensive way to help fuel and repair your body. You don’t have to join a gym, subscribe to a service or have a kit. Start with good water. Get your hands on a container that will allow you to track the number of ounces. Add a little natural flavor. Then, you’re on your way. This summer, while you’re experiencing the season and all of the activities and pleasures it brings, remember to keep your body running at its best and hydrate.
Although Joyce took a detour as a teacher for many years, it became apparent that she needed to fulfill her lifelong desire. After all, she had been incubating the idea of her own food-related business for nearly three decades. The catalyst: The COVID-19 pandemic. Although it was a devastating situation across the globe, for Fragoso, it was a watershed moment that gave her the push to pursue her dream.
Even if you can’t see yourself lying on the ground, consider committing to a practice of “10 before 10” this summer. Getting yourself outside into the sunshine and fresh air for 10 minutes first thing in the morning can set you up for a much more productive and serene day. We’ve been given the gift of more daylight during this time of year so we should take advantage of it! Synching your body’s circadian rhythms with the sun’s cycle helps regulate your sleep, which will then help regulate your appetites and moods. To amp up your sunshine time, use your 10 minutes for a short daily meditation. You can set your intentions for the day and soak up the rays before the UV index climbs too high.
Audrey Zona is an integrative health and wellness coach and the founder of Zo Healthy. She is a mother, wife and personal coach who loves seeing her clients break old diet patterns and enjoy more satisfying, healthier lives. Follow Audrey on Instagram @zo_healthy for recipes, tips and tricks for leading a healthy lifestyle.You may also visit her website at https:// livezohealthy.com or her Facebook at www.facebook.com/ ZoHealthy. ■
60 | Spring 2023
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Gift baskets & Custom Cookies for all Occasions Shower and Wedding Favors Gourmet Cookies and Treats by the Pound Personalized Cookies and Cakes Corporate Logos and Gifts New All Natural Dog Cookies CONTACT US: wekneadthedoughcookies.com (201)888-2222 wekneadthedoughcookies@gmail.com
Continued on page 62 Continued on Page 36
Nowhere is summer’s abundance more evident than in the huge array of vibrant, seasonal foods that grow in this season. In summer, we crave cooler foods to maintain our balance with the Earth’s cycles. Now is the time to eat raw foods and the time to consider juicing or a juice cleanse. Juices, by their nature, contain more sugar than other foods but because in the summer, your body needs to hydrate and replenish electrolytes, it can also tolerate some additional sugar. Focus on your digestion and ridding your body of what isn’t serving it by juicing fresh, organic fruits and veggies from the farmer’s market. Seek out apricots, bananas, all kinds of green, leafy veggies, celery, melons (especially watermelon), berries, tomatoes, peaches, cucumber, zucchini, corn, mint and parsley. Or, make watermelon or pineapple smoothies and keep the all-important fiber intact. If you don’t really want to drink juices, drink coconut water or water with a pinch of salt to keep your electrolytes balanced.
Zo Healthy Cleansing Green Smoothie
1 ½ cups of filtered water
1 head of chopped organic romaine lettuce (Vitamin C, great for collagen production and digestion)
2 large handfuls of organic baby spinach (Vitamin C, A and E, Zinc and Selenium)
2 stalks of organic celery, cut into pieces (Vitamin C, anti-inflammatory, antioxidants)
1 organic apple, chopped (Anti-oxidants and fiber)
1 organic pear, chopped (Vitamin C, fiber, and anti-inflammatory)
½ peeled banana (Heart health, potassium, fiber, good for gut flora)
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (Hydrating, cleansing, collagen production)
Optional ingredients: 1/3 bunch of organic cilantro 1/3 bunch of organic parsley
Balancing your electrolytes is particularly important when you exercise during the summer. Because the summer season’s Yin organ is the heart, this is a good time of year to work on your cardiovascular health to maintain inner peace and harmony. Elevate your heart rate by walking, running, or swimming. But caring for your heart isn’t just physical. So, this summer, if you do one thing, take the time to enjoy your life. Engage your senses by spending time
outside in nature. Seek out activities that bring you joy. Spend time with friends who make you smile. Do a few things that scare you. Most importantly, find time to be with your very favorite person – yourself. And start today. They might call it an endless summer, but we all know, fall is right around the corner.
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Holy Name Founders Ball
The Holy Name Foundation held their annual Founders Ball at Pier Sixty, NYC. For more information, visit www.holyname.org.
Social
Dr. David Butler and Family
Connie and Paul Sarlo Edel and Dennis Pfisterer, Aaron Goldworm, Anna Yarygina
Fernando Garip, Kellie Berkoff
Michael and Cathy Vigneron, Judy and John Trobiano
David Wild, Stefani Berkin
Jill Rosenberg, Kristine Sayrafe, Lorraine Dente
Charlie Vialotti, Diane and Patrick Maron
Jungeun Lee, Bo Yang, Young Woo, Nan Woo, Hee Yang
Amanda Missey, Erica West
Doug and Suzi Fortuna Diane and Ed Szott, Steve and Christina Varvar
Michael Maron, Ernest Delgatto, Claudia Mattiello
Vasantha Kondamudi, Michael Maron Alyssa Montaoto, Jo Ann Sanzari, Amy and Bobby Brown, Tina and Tim Murray
Lisa Futterman, Rich Taylor, Dan White, Aleta Taylor, Cathleen Davey
Reservation For One, Please
Seven Recommendations For Venturing Out Alone
Whether you’re a lone wolf at heart or looking to broaden your sense of independence, traveling solo can be a richly empowering and satisfying experience.
Setting out on your own has many practical advantages. You’re not worrying about accommodating another’s schedule, interest or needs, and you’re free to decide what you want to do and when. Solo travel also elicits some mental and emotional benefits, as you experience a unique sense of freedom, liberation and self-sufficiency.
If you’re considering a solo journey, consider these tips from the book “101+ Tips for Solo Women Travelers,” which is offered by Overseas Adventure Travel in free digital and print editions.
Make Sure Your Passport is Updated
Many countries now require your passport to be valid for six months after your return to the United States. If you don’t have a passport, or need to renew one, apply for one as soon as possible. Ideally you should have your application in six months before you depart.
Look for Trips with No Single Supplement
Often, quoted rates are “per person, based on double occupancy.” This is because travel hosts know they can make more from a couple traveling than an individual. You can avoid paying a single supplement premium by being willing to match with a roommate or traveling with a tour company or cruise line with free or low-cost single supplement fees.
Use the ATM
As an affordable and convenient way to get cash, you can avoid wasting time in line at a bank or currency exchange bureau by visiting an ATM. While you’ll likely incur a fee for using an ATM that’s not part of your bank, it is often less than the commission you’d pay at an exchange bureau. Plus, you can avoid additional fees by calculating how much you’ll need for the trip and making one withdrawal as opposed to multiple smaller withdrawals.
Download Entertainment Before You Leave
When traveling, Wi-Fi can be expensive, slow or just not available. Before you leave, download music, e-books, podcasts, favorite tv shows or movies to enjoy while you’re en route or during down time.
Join Group Tours
Once you reach your destination, you may enjoy joining small groups for excursions or to explore local cuisine. Or you can make your entire journey a group experience. A small group adventure with Overseas Adventure Travel has many benefits, and built-in dining companions is just one of them.
Take Precautions in Your Hotel Room
When you check in, ask the receptionist to write your room number down instead of announcing it so everyone can hear. Make sure your room’s locks work on both the door into the hallway and the balcony. Never let any repair person or staff member into your room without confirming with the front desk first. Bring a rubber doorstop, which makes a hotel room door nearly impossible to open. Finally, have an exit plan: Know where the nearest exit is located and the route from your room.
Make New Friends
For some, making friends seems to happen naturally while traveling alone by chatting with strangers at a neighboring restaurant table or striking up a conversation while waiting in line at a store. If those situations don’t occur naturally, there are useful apps that can connect you with local people as well as fellow travelers.
A Divorce Lawyer’s Perspective
Divorcing Parents’ Battle The Challenge of A Child With ADHD
By stephanie F. lehMan
As a divorce attorney, I find myself routinely involved in disputes between divorcing or already-divorced parents involving issues related to their child’s Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. ADHD and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) are common behavioral disorders usually diagnosed in childhood with symptoms persisting into adulthood. Children with these conditions may, in addition to being hyperactive, have difficulty concentrating and controlling their impulses. These symptoms, if left untreated, can affect a child’s performance in school and his relationships with friends and family.
Divorce for any child is stressful, but for children with ADHD, it is uniquely challenging. Children with ADHD are more likely to struggle emotionally and academically following a divorce. Many children become hyper-focused on the cause of their parents’ breakup – often blaming themselves – while others are unable to meet the challenges of shuttling between two households. Children can find themselves caught in the middle of their parents’ disagreement about the appropriate dose of medicine to take (or whether to medicate at all) and whether a specialty school is affordable and necessary when public schools are free and may provide services for ADHD. While managing these stressors is often challenging for parents living in an intact relationship, divorced parents all too often run into problems
when attempting to co-parent a child with ADHD from two separate households.
A marriage will end in one of two ways: either by the entry of a fully negotiated comprehensive marital agreement which will provide, among other things, the custodial and parenting schedule for the parties’ children, or by a Judgment of Divorce after trial. Frequently, I tell my clients that they know their child better than do I, a judge, or a court-appointed expert. While I am the proud mother of three children, only my husband and I can accommodate their daily routines, sensitivities, and academic challenges. Parents who are unable to work together to ensure that their child’s best interests come first are inadvertently consenting to a judge stepping in. This can mean invasive monitoring by the judge and the court-appointed expert he or she selects, and much less autonomy for the mother and father in determining a visitation schedule and a mechanism for making decisions for their child. These parents are taking the parenting out of parenting and assigning that task to a stranger who may not be sensitive to the needs of a child with ADHD.
The more divorcing parents of ADHD children can resolve in an agreement to support their child’s needs and best interests, the less likely future conflicts will impact the child’s well-being and success. Accord-
ingly, it is crucial for parents with ADHD children to keep an open dialogue and make every attempt to arrive at a joint custodial arrangement in which they focus on the specific needs of their ADHD child.
To do that, divorce lawyers should be familiar with the specific needs of a child with ADHD.
• Consistency and Stability Are Crucial For An ADHD Child: Parents should design visitation schedules to meet the needs of the ADHD child – not to meet a parent’s need or desire to be the parent who has more time with the child. Frequent transitions between households are likely not in the ADHD child’s best interests; children with ADHD often have difficulty
with executive functions, such as planning, organization, time estimation, time management, and handling transitions – making traveling back and forth between homes more difficult than for children without ADHD. Children with ADHD may tend to forget books or personal items at a parent’s home. Accordingly, the best parenting schedule will minimize transitions between households. It may be best to have a complete set of clothes and other personal items at each home, especially given the sensory related issues common to children with ADHD. Don’t be afraid to use technology, such as a Family Google Calendar, to assist the ADHD child in understanding where he
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needs to be during the week. Parents who attend to these details when crafting the agreement will benefit a child with ADHD. There is a greater chance that the child will be less distracted, more able to focus on school, and more in control of ADHD symptoms, including anxiety hypersensitivity.
• Factor Into Child and Spousal Support the Cost of Specialized Services, Therapists and Tutors: While it is difficult, seemingly even impossible, to anticipate every future need of a child, certain costs such as tutoring, therapy, and educational needs are likely known and have already been established for the ADHD child at the time of divorce. Parents should factor in the responsibility each bears for these costs in the agreement. They will need safeguards against the possibility that either parent’s financial circumstance may change after the divorce.
• Common Routines Between Parents’ Homes Should Be Understood and Maintained: Each parent should take full responsibility for monitoring homework, specific diets, and continuity with regular therapies during his or her parenting time. Children with ADHD require parental control and consistency of daily routines between households, including their bedtimes and mealtimes, playing sports, taking medicine, and playing musical instruments. Your parents might want to include a checklist to be followed by each parent in his or her home. Set ground rules and structure within the agreement to make sure each parent is thinking along the same lines.
• Check-ins with the Child’s Therapist and Teachers: Parents should regularly check in with the child’s therapist and teachers, jointly or separately, so that each can stay on top of the child’s needs.
• Incorporate Dispute Resolution Clauses Into A Marital Agreement: It is important to recognize that an agreement that works for a child in elementary school may not work for the same child as he or she progresses in age. ADHD symptoms can change, either improving or worsening as a child ages. As the symptoms evolve, so do the treatments, including medicine dosages, therapies, tutoring needs and perhaps a child’s individual education plan (commonly known as an IEP). It’s smart to include dispute resolution mechanisms to avoid court involvement post-divorce
such as a mandatory mediation clause or requiring an advisory opinion from an expert who can, perhaps, persuade the parents to reach a mutually acceptable decision. For example, I have used an educational consultant to offer an advisory opinion on an appropriate school for a child to attend and a psychiatrist to opine on the advantages and disadvantages of using medicine to treat ADHD symptoms.
The best-divorced parents are those that effectively co-parent. However, often co-parenting following divorce is impossible. In many instances, parents continue to harbor resentment toward each other, which impacts their ability to make decisions for their ADHD child despite dispute resolution mechanisms drafted into agreements. In the past year alone, I have found myself in the middle of two post-divorce litigations involving disputes between parents of an ADHD child. These litigations come with hefty emotional and financial price tags. Moreover, frequently issues concerning an ADHD child require immediate resolution. Nothing is immediate when judicial intervention is required. The courts remain back-logged years after the COVID-19 pandemic has quieted. Custodial issues are expensive to litigate, frequently require the retention of an expert or experts – who come with high hourly rates for testimony at trial – and can last for months and years. The stress and emotional upheaval of these battles can psychologically harm a child with ADHD who is already experiencing challenges of his or her own.
Divorce is challenging. The more parents can work together to support the needs of their ADHD child, the more likely the child will be set up for success post-divorce. The child’s best interests are paramount, and it is imperative that the parents and their counsel work together to ensure that post-divorce an ADHD child’s stress and anxiety levels are managed so that her self-esteem and academic success are not compromised.
Stephanie F. Lehman is head of the New York/ New Jersey Metro Family Law practice at Phillips Nizer LLP, representing clients in New York and New Jersey in all areas of matrimonial, family and fertility law for more than 20 years. Stephanie can be reached at (201) 975-4441 or SLehman@PhillipsNizer.com.
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Let’s Unplug
Between school, work and entertainment, there are times when screens can seem like a pervasive part of modern life. For all the positive aspects of technology, there can also be a desire for children to have stretches of unplugged learning and participate in educational activities that do not require a screen.
Why Unplugged Learning Matters
“Unplugged learning is important to balance the screen time children may experience with other forms of learning; to promote physical activities, social interaction and creativity; and develop the essential skills that bolster them throughout their exploration and growth as individuals,” said Rurik Nackerud from KinderCare’s education team.
Summer can be an ideal time to focus on unplugged learning as it often brings a break from the traditional academic year and activities.
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Tips for Creating Unplugged Fun as a Family
1. Get Outdoors. Make time as a family to get outside and explore, even if it’s simply a walk around the block after dinner. Help children notice the little things like a bug on the sidewalk or the way the sun filters through tree leaves to make patterns on the ground. Ask them about the things they see and give your children the space to ask questions and work together to find the answers. This helps teach children collaborative learning skills: asking questions, sharing ideas and working together to reach an answer.
2. Read Together. This could mean going to the library to check out new books or exploring your family’s bookshelves for old favorites. Snuggle up together for family story time. If children are old enough to read on their own, invite them to read to you or their younger siblings. Talk about the story or even act out favorite parts to help your children actively participate in story time, which may help them better understand the story’s concepts.
3. Encourage Creative Thinking. Help children expand their ability to think creatively by working together to make a craft or project. For example, the next time a delivery box arrives at your home, encourage your children to turn it into something new using craft supplies on hand. A blanket could turn a box into a table for a pretend restaurant while some tape or glue could transform it into a rocket ship or train. When everyone’s done creating and playing, the box can be broken down for recycling. This activity can help children literally think outside of the box and apply their own unique ideas and creativity to create something new.
For more tips to encourage unplugged learning this summer, visit kindercare.com.
Upper Saddle River Garden Club
The USR Garden Club held their annual get together at the Saddle River Cafe. For more information, visit www.usrgardenclub.com.
46 Social
Jule Linter, Olga Swiatkowski
Heidi Wlosek, Anzhela Krimer, Shakhnoza Romine
Jeanine Matthews, Maria Oblow, Tracy Penski
Kim Gold, Jen Thurakal
Bonnie Saffarian, Christina Lempesis
Diana Joseph, Christina Lempsesis
Amy Hesse, Maya Low, Jackie Lagomarsino
Mike and Lisa Rizzo
Jane Linter, Sharon Hancock
Elaine Filliter, Beata Savreski
Susan Firman, Nicole Savickas
Christina Lampesis, Eva Petrone, Diana Joseph
Kristen Nelson, Katie Eitner
Felice Bernard, Eva Petrone
Olga Swiatkowski, Sangita Naik
Michelle Frankel, Nicole Savickas
The Valley Ball
The Valley Hospital Auxiliary held their Valley Ball at The Plaza in NYC. For more information, visit www.valleyhealth.com.
Stacy Haldeman Figueira, Valerie Santanasto, Joseph Lorino, Mary Lynn Kearns, Danielle Massucci
Derrick Lieb, David Rivera, Josh Gregoire, Toni Modak, Josie Bodino, Maggie Pogorelec, Charles Vannoy
Social
Stephanie Edelson, Dr. Robert Brenner, Peter and Erica Diestel
Carol Gillespie, Elaine Heimberger
Ed and Joan Doherty, Dr. Sharon Galvin, Dr. Roger Pollock
Danielle and Dr. Mark Pizzurro, Audrey Meyers, Dr. Scott Agins
Frank and Karen Sheehy, Heidi and Bob Fink
Tom Driscoll, Phil Centineo, Russ Pucci, Tom Walsh
Arlene and Stuart Liebman, Paul Hollander, Robin Goldfischer
Voula and Joseph Lorino, Ralph and Elizabeth Mastrangelo
Voula and Joseph Lorino, Mark Kury, Shelly Ferensic
Jati and Anshu Kapur, Valli and Dr. Surya Mohapatra
Steven and Ava Silverstein, Meera and Karteek Bhavsar
The Jersey Boys
The Valley Ball Committee Guests of Valley Emergency Room Associates
PUMP UP THE JAMS
Tips For Building The Best Workout Playlist
Need some inspiration for your next workout? Jason Jani has you covered.
Jani, a NJ-based renowned DJ and entertainer, is on Sirius XM’s Pitbull Globalization once a month and has a show on Fit Radio that had over 5 million downloads in 2022. His fitness mixes are used all over the country and can be heard in gyms like OrangeTheory, f45 and more. Here are his tips for building the best playlist for your workout, as well as some mixes to give a listen.
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TIPS FOR BUILDING THE BEST WORKOUT PLAYLIST
1. Think about your workout and the type of music that can help keep you motivated the entire workout. Everyone likes different styles of music and there is no right or wrong, this is for you. Key off the styles of music that will keep your mind focused on the task and activity at hand.
“If I am running or doing a longer-form workout, the music may not need to be as hard hitting and chaotic in comparison to a CrossFit style session,” said Jani.
2. Think about how you will be listening to the music soundtrack for your session. Are you using headphones or a larger speaker system? Select music and edits that fit the atmosphere of your workout, and that will sound good on the system pumping your beats. If you are listening to smaller headphones, there may be limitations on what they can handle and what sounds good.
3. Think through the progression of the tracks and the way you train. If the first 15 minutes of your workout are spent stretching, then you may want to ensure you have chill tunes in the first segment of your playlist.
GIVE THESE MIXES A LISTEN:
Playlist #1: Built for #POWER
https://tinyurl.com/4963tuat
Sample songs: Formation by Beyonce, Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani, Don’t Cha by the Pussycat Dolls and Busta Rhymes, Confident by Demi Lovato
Playlist #2: 2000s Throwbacks
https://tinyurl.com/vc5p947u
Sample songs: Dynamite by Taio Cruz, Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae Jepsen, Domino by Jessie J, OMG by Usher and will.i.am
Playlist #3: Ultimate Hip-Hop Throwbacks
https://tinyurl.com/tm7brtdn
Sample songs: Ride Wit Me by Nelly and City Spud, Bring ‘Em Out by T.I., 99 Problems by JAY-Z, O.P.P by Naughty by Nature
Playlist #4: Pump Up Mix
https://tinyurl.com/2p93njnr
Sample songs: Afraid to Feel (David Guetta & Dyro remix), Drugs from Amsterdam by Mau P, RATATA by Skrillex, Missy Elliott and Mr. Oizo
Jason Jani is the owner of SCE Event Group, a DJ and music entertainment company that does over 2000 events a year in Bergen County’s favorite venues, such as The Estate at Florentine Gardens and The Rockleigh. Jani also owns Snapshot Photobooths, a photo-entertainment company. He is one of the most sought-after DJs around the world for high-profile events and has shared the stage with entertainers from Cardi B to DJ Jazzy Jeff. Further, he is the go-to DJ for TV stars like Melissa Gorga of the Real Housewives.
Understanding Strokes
May was National Stroke Awareness Month. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We recently had a discussion with Kenneth Levin, MD, Medical Director of The Valley Hospital Stroke Center, to better understand strokes.
Q: What is a stroke?
A: A stroke is a “brain attack” that occurs when blood supply to the brain is cut off. Most strokes are caused by a blood clot that has built up on the wall of a brain artery or one that has traveled to the brain from another part of the body, known as an embolic stroke or ischemic stroke. Another type of stroke, known as hemorrhagic stroke, is caused by a ruptured blood vessel or aneurysm in or near the brain, which results in bleeding within or over the surface of the brain.
Q: What are the symptoms of a stroke?
A: An easy way to remember the warning signs of stroke is by using the acronym B.E. F.A.S.T. It is important to act fast and call 911 immediately if you or someone you know experience these warning signs.
Balance loss
Eyes blue
Face dropping
Arm weakness
Speech difficulty
Time to call 911
Q: What does a stroke do to the brain?
A: A stroke can result in weakness or paralysis of one side of the body, sensory loss, vision loss, loss of speech or the ability to understand others, memory loss, or a combination of these factors. It can be slight or severe, temporary or permanent, depending on the extent of damage to the brain. It can also cause death or serious injuries that can be harmful to your quality of life. Possible complications include pneumonia or potentially dangerous blood clots in the legs.
Q: Why should people choose The Valley Hospital for stroke care?
A: The Valley Hospital Stroke Center leads the area in advanced technology, leading-edge treatment options, and neurological and neurosurgical expertise. We offer a full complement of stroke care, including diagnostic testing, treatment, rehabilitation, support, prevention, education, and research. Our experienced stroke team diagnoses and treats stroke symptoms swiftly and aggressively.
The Valley Hospital also has the capabilities to provide high-end care in terms of treatment for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. We offer treatments including tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) to break up blood clots, thrombectomy to remove large blood clots, and other neurointerventional procedures.
To learn more about stroke care at Valley, please visit ValleyHealth.com/Stroke.