Bergen January 2025

HELLO, HEALTHY

JUMP START 2025 WITH FRESH FOODS, BETTER FITNESS AND A POSITIVE OUTLOOK

14 READERS SHARE THEIR ’25 RESOLUTIONS THE PROS AND CONS OF 7 POPULAR DIETS

9 EXPERTS ADDRESS YOUR HEALTH CONCERNS

Losing Weight is Easier When You Have Options

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At Valley, it’s not only about losing weight. It’s about gaining health. Let’s succeed together.

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Features

The Year Of You 30

A new calendar year offers a fresh start. Here are 14 of your neighbors’ New Year’s resolutions for 2025. What will you resolve?

Diets—And Their Downsides 38

Want to shed pounds in the new year? Here are seven popular plans—and a doctor’s view of the pluses and minuses of each.

How To Thrive In ’25 42

For a healthy new year, don’t just ignore that medical issue that’s been worrying you—get it checked out. Here’s the lowdown on a dozen such concerns.

Volt Fitness in Glen Rock.

Departments

Bergen Buzz 15

Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the county.

Style Watch 22

The right activewear can help you stay on top of your game.

Home Front 24

A classic yet contemporary weave pattern can boost the style of any space.

Friends & Neighbors 26

Maywood’s Gregory Liosi has Bergen community theater baked into his DNA—and he’s eager to continue that legacy.

Escapes 48

This month, in five great U.S. cities, Chinatowns will welcome the Year of the Snake.

Tastes 50

Sweet and savory dishes make a wonderful centerpiece for your winter meal.

Bar Tab 54

Spice up brunch or evening happy hour with this spin on a classic cocktail.

Restaurant Review 60

Zetta’s Arepas Bistro in Cliffside Park is a homey haven for a South American cuisine.

Gatherings 70

Bergen residents always show up to support one another.

A Bergen Moment 72

A Franklin Lakes resident and his dog enjoy the silence and colors along the yellow trail at the Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah.

When it comes to how you move, choices are everything. So choose to see the world’s top orthopedic specialists at HSS Paramus, and get back to moving better than before.

To learn more or to make an appointment, visit HSS.edu/Paramus

Put Health On Your ‘To-Do’ List

If you’ve vowed to lose weight or make another healthy improvement in 2025, you’re not alone. Many of us choose the beginning of a year to implement changes we hope will help us become a better version of ourselves. The good life open to us in ’25 begins with taking the best possible care of our physical, mental and emotional selves.

Is it always easy? No way. Starting on page 30 you’ll read about the New Year’s resolutions your Bergen County neighbors have made, many involving health—and requiring both willpower and patience. We suspect Steve Bromley of Paramus is having a little fun with us when he reports his weight-loss “progress.” But his confession points to a guiding insight: Don’t expect sudden miracles. As another article in this issue warns, don’t declare victory or admit defeat too soon. In weight loss or any big change, it’s the long haul that counts.

The article I mention, on page 38, explains seven much-touted approaches to shedding pounds and lets a doctor assess the pros and cons of each. Some of them are considered “fad” diets. Fads aren’t bad per se—in fact, they can provide a helpful “oomph” if you feel you’re on trend. But heed our physician’s warning that quick weight loss isn’t always either healthy or lasting, especially if it sacrifices balance. And no diet is worth its salt (with or without salt itself!) if it’s so onerous that you end up lapsing and using your failure as an excuse to feel bad.

Speaking of doctors, are you due to visit one? Is there a regular preventive screening that belongs on your calendar, one that in your busy life you’ve been postponing? Or do you have a nagging physical symptom—you’d rather not think about it—that really ought to be checked out? Turn to page 42, where our Special Report lists a dozen health concerns, large and small, and what to do about each. What should trigger a visit to a physician or other health care provider, for example, and what tests and treatments are available to diagnose a condition and deal with it? Our article is a short course on this vital, useful info.

Now that you’re in the pink of health, hit the slopes—or the ice—or a “maple sugaring” lesson, or a coffee snob’s paradise. You’ll find these and other wintertime pleasures on page 15. Or travel to take in a Lunar New Year celebration in one of five great cities (page 48). Or sample the caraqueña arepa at Zetta’s Arepas Bistro in Cliffside Park (page 60). Venezuela’s economy may be hurting, but its cuisine, you’ll find, is going gangbusters.

There’s even more in this issue to enjoy. The best of health—and good times—to you in this new year!

Rita Guarna Editor in Chief rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com

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BEST OF THE BEST

It’s that time again! Choose your favorite bakery, day spa, sports bar and more in the 2025 Bergen Readers’ Choice Awards. Online ballots are now open at bergenmag.com. Then stay tuned for more details on our celebration of the winners.

FIGHTING THE FLU

Doctors say the best time for a flu shot is in fall, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get one now. That’s because flu season, which is now in its peak, typically runs through spring.

Your health forecast for the next few months, however, doesn’t have to be filled with runny noses, fevers and aches and pains. If you haven’t done so already, now is the perfect time to get updated vaccines that protect against respiratory viruses such as the flu, RSV and COVID-19.

To curb the spread of the virus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the flu vaccine for everyone age 6 months and older, except when a patient is allergic. It’s best to get the vaccination as soon as possible, as antibodies that fight the virus develop roughly two weeks after the shot is administered.

Beyond the vaccine, there are steps you can take to avoid and prevent the spread of the flu virus. “Use hand sanitizer, wash hands thoroughly, cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze,” says Sonia Chadha, M.D., a Paramusbased primary care physician. “You’ll greatly reduce your risk of getting sick.”

For more tips on staying safe from the flu, RSV and COVID-19, visit bergenmag.com/how-toprotect-yourself-during-flu-season.

Artistry, Compassion, and Technical Expertise

Dr. Liany Farinas-Han, DMD

General and Cosmetic Dentistry

Smiles By Bergen Dental

Smiles by Bergen Dental excels in overall patient experience and uncompromising delivery of dental care. Dr. Liany Farinas-Han and her team recognize the importance of making patients feel comfortable and safe. The doctors and their staff have created a nurturing environment to help ease dental fear. Laughter and positive energy fill every corner of this dental practice. Dentistry is much more than a routine check-up. Dentistry is a blend of artistry, compassion, and technical expertise.  At Smiles by Bergen, the overall health of your teeth, enhanced by cutting-edge cosmetic techniques makes for a winning combination and a glowing smile.

Bergen Buzz

OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTY.

WINTER’S ENDLESS FUN

From snow-filled adventures to cozy evenings by a fireplace, there are many reasons our hearts are warmed by the year’s coldest season. And Bergen offers every seasonal pleasure. For example,

• Take to the ice. There are skating rinks all over our county. Check out the Ice House (111 Midtown Bridge St., Hackensack, 201.487.8444; icehousenj.com) with daily open skates and seasonal hockey leagues for all ages; Mackay Ice Rink (130 W. Englewood Ave., Englewood, 201.568.3133; mackayicerink.com), offering open skates on Mondays and Fridays; or The Rink at American Dream (1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, 833.263.7326; americandream.com), where you can skate most weekday mornings and on weekends. See individual websites for more info.

• Take in a view. An ice-encased landscape can take your breath away. Drive to Palisades Interstate Park in Alpine (njpalisades. org) and see the winter sun glint over the Hudson and nature-made ice sculptures hanging from cliffs. If you’re up for some cold-weather hiking (make sure you bundle up and wear sturdy shoes!), Ramapo Valley County Reservation’s waterfall in Mahwah (nynjtc.org) is magical when half-frozen and surrounded by snow.

• Hit the slopes. How about a day of skiing? Campgaw Mountain Ski Area (200 Campgaw Rd., Mahwah, 201.327.7800; skicampgaw.com) has eight beginner/intermediate trails and 18 acres of skiable terrain and tubing slopes open daily. It’s perfect for newcomers to the sport (ski lessons are available), families and anyone looking for a fun, laid-back afternoon. Campgaw also offers equipment rentals. More information is on the website. Rather carve the snow under a roof? Big Snow American Dream (1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, 973.864.6600; bigsnowamericandream.com) features an indoor resort for skiing, snowboarding, tubing and even Sno-Go biking. Skilled skiers and beginners are welcome.

• Make something sweet. Beginning Sunday, Jan. 19, you can head to the Tenafly Nature Center (313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, 201.568.6093; tenaflynaturecenter.org) for its annual maple sugaring program. Learn from a naturalist how to identify a maple tree, learn about the history of syrup making, and then boil down sap so you can sample fresh, warm maple syrup.

• Warm yourself. Coffee is perfect any time of year, but a cup of joe or cocoa really does hit differently in winter.

BERGEN Readers’ Choice nods Humphrey’s Coffee (160 Terrace St., Haworth, 201.338.2207; humphreyscoffee. com) and American Bulldog Coffee Roasters (31 N. Broad St., Ridgewood, 201.857.4176; 4 N. Spruce St., Ramsey, 201.574.8070) make fantastic, rich hot chocolate options. Something a bit more unusual? Coffee Break (71 Main St., Hackensack, 201.546.1629) offers a “nutellino,” which adds a shot of espresso to milk, Nutella and whipped cream.

PUMPKIN NICE

Many Bergenites put their pumpkins to good use when the season wraps up, donating them to farms and animal rescues. Mahwah’s Lynne Berry, for instance, has made it her mission to collect gourds to feed the rescue pigs, goats and horses at Billy’s New Hope Barn in Honesdale, Pa. Last fall she, along with helpful members of the community, gathered and donated 6,000 pounds of pumpkins to the farm—the most since she started donating five years ago.

Berry’s passion for donating began in 2019, when she pitched in her own pumpkins after reading about the farm on Facebook. Grieving the loss of a loved one the following year, Berry sought to do more for the farm. “I knew I could easily immerse myself in sadness if I didn’t do something outside of myself,” she recalls. So Berry turned her home into a pumpkin drop-off site. The initiative has grown exponentially each year: In 2023, Berry not only accepted donations from her Bergen County neighbors, but Secor Farms in Mahwah also got into the action.

The giving spirit exploded in 2024. Besides the usual donations from residents, Rohsler’s Allendale Nursery told Berry she could have all its leftover pumpkins. There was a caveat: Berry, who was recovering from hernia surgery, had to retrieve them herself over one weekend.

“That’s when I had to think quick, and I thought, ‘Let me put it out there and see what happens,’” Berry tells BERGEN. She created a Facebook post calling for volun-

teers to bring pumpkins from Rohsler’s to her home—and the response was overwhelming.

“People were pulling into my driveway and unloading their SUVs, and the ones I was able to talk to came from all around,” she says. “The best part of it was the joy. If you could see the smiles on people’s faces as they were dropping off, it was incredible.”

The generosity didn’t end there. After all the pumpkins (6,000 pounds!) were retrieved and filled Berry’s front yard, volunteers filled cars and box trucks to transport them to Billy’s. They even got a helping hand from Ridgefield Park’s Duffy Movers—owner Kevin Duffy donated a moving truck and crew members to pitch in with the delivery.

“This year has been really one of the most community-involved, blessed things—filled with joy, giving, laughing and loving—I have ever had the honor of being a part of,” Berry says. “And P.S.: You haven’t lived until you see a piggy smile!”

HERE’S TO BEER CANS!

Your football-fanatic friends will appreciate any brew served while the Big Game is on, but why not treat them to something they’ll love? Bergen County’s craft breweries not only come up with distinctive drinks, but also offer them in refreshingly artful cans. “There’s a lot of life breathed into craft beer, and the diversity of our can designs celebrate the many perspectives and energies of the people who help us brew it,” says Kellie Mardula of Carlstadt-based brewery Bolero Snort. In 2024, Bolero Snort released cans supporting local animal shelters like RBARI, ones that were drawn by the beneficiaries of and in support of Spectrum for Living and even wedding cans that cheered to love, she adds. Check out one or more on Beer Can Appreciation Day, Jan. 24, or whenever your favorite team is playing, at one of Bergen’s craft breweries:

• Bolero Snort Brewery, 316 20th St., Carlstadt, 201.464.0639; bolerosnort.com

• Brix City Brewing, 4 Alsan Way, Little Ferry, 201.440.0865; brixcitybrewing.com

• Gearblock Brewing Company, 140 Franklin Tpke., Waldwick, 201.962.2057; gearblockbrewing.com

• Hackensack Brewing Co., 78 Johnson Ave., Hackensack, 201.880.1768; hackensackbrewing.com

KITTY LOVE

Cat: Ursula, 2-year-old domestic shorthair

Owner: Karina Monteith, Mahwah

Having been a “cat aunt” to a friend’s feline for many years, Monteith finally decided to become an owner herself last year. The stars were aligned: She had an ideal work-from-home job, had just moved into a spacious town home and met a new friend who was fostering a pair of kittens. After meeting the kitties, Monteith “knew immediately” that she wanted to adopt one, and it wasn’t long before she welcomed Ursula into her home.

Though shy at first, Ursula has come out of her shell and “claimed the space as hers.” According to her owner, she demands food and affection “24/7” and lets everyone know when she wants to be left alone. “She has no problem sitting in a room with her back turned to you, as if she’s saying, ‘Don’t talk to me,’” Monteith says. But don’t let the dramatic side fool you, Mom says, as this cat can be a mush.

“I’ve never heard a cat purr so loudly when she’s being scratched behind the ears, and she’s a joy when she’s playing with her jingle balls and toy mice,” Monteith tells BERGEN. “She’ll also sit by the window and talk to the birds and squirrels on the ground. I don’t know how I went so long without her in my life!”

Want to see your pet in an upcoming issue? Email a brief description and photo to Editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

READY TO EXCEED EXPECTATIONS.

BECAUSE YOU DESERVE THE BEST, YOU’LL FIND MORE PROVIDERS AND MORE 5-STAR PHYSICIANS RIGHT HERE.

To schedule an appointment, simply scan the QR code or call 1-844-HMH-WELL.

CULINARY CORNER

Looking to embrace the “new” in “new year?” Try these recently opened Bergen restaurants.

TIME TO CHEER

With an ’80s–’90s theme and a rotation of live music options and karaoke nights, Booyah! in Mahwah is a great option for your next girls’ or guys’ night out. It goes past the presentation too—you can enjoy Italian favorites and a stellar happy hour menu (we are eyeing the truffle mac-and-cheese) along with a full of beer and wine.

• Booyah!, 180 Route 17 S., Mahwah, 201.252.2012; booyahnj.com

WELCOME HOME

Fort Lee’s Onga (Korean for “warm house”) brings a comforting, home-cooked vibe to its entire

The offerings are packed with traditional Korean d ishes, many of them beef based, and its soups the stars of the show. Stop by any time you have craving—it’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Onga, 1475 Bergen Blvd., Fort Lee, 201.482.4423; ongarestaurant.com

ENDLESS OPTIONS

Already in Hackensack, Asian fusion eatery Phuhroo has opened a new restaurant in Fair Lawn. It features an expansive, innovative menu, offering everything from standard panfried dumplings to rice bowls to kimchi bulgogi french fries. Phuhroo also serves pho—and many other noodle dishes. Finish off any meal with chilled fruit tea.

• Phuhroo, 30-08 Broadway, Fair Lawn, 201.926.6477; phuhroo.com

OUR SCHOOLS GET AN A

We may be biased, but we know Bergen schools are second to none— and it’s nice to see them recognized nationally. U.S. News and World Report, the media company known for rankings of colleges, hospitals and schools, released its 2025 list of “Best Public Elementary Schools, Middle Schools and High Schools.” The rankings are based on state tests, student achievements and student-teacher ratios. These Bergen institutions (listed with their districts) placed in New Jersey’s “top 25” in their categories:

PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

No. 8—Orchard Elementary School, Ridgewood

No. 17— Brookside School, Allendale

No. 21—Alexander Hamilton School, Glen Rock

No. 25—Cherry Hill School, River Edge

PUBLIC MIDDLE SCHOOLS

No. 3—Upper School, Englewood Cliffs

No. 9—Ho-Ho-Kus Public School, Ho-Ho-Kus

No. 11—Brookside School, Allendale

No. 18—Tenafly Middle School, Tenafly

No. 21—Woodcliff Middle School, Woodcliff Lake

PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS

No. 4—Bergen County Academies, Bergen County Vocational Technical School District

No. 7—Bergen County Technical High School, Bergen County Vocational Technical School District

No. 24— Northern Valley Regional High School at Demarest, Northern Valley Regional High School District

HASBROUCK HAS WHEELS

The holidays came early for the Hasbrouck Heights Police Department, and its Santa was longtime resident Doug Lanzo, 62. In late November he purchased a brand-new Harley-Davidson motorcycle from Bergen County Harley-Davidson in Rochelle Park and donated it to the local police department.

“I’ve lived here for 60 years, my kids were born and raised here,” Lanzo tells BERGEN. “Hasbrouck Heights is very close to me and my family—though my wife jokingly thought I was crazy for doing it.” The HHPD will use the new motorcycle, the first in the department’s vehicle fleet, for motorcades and special events such as the annual street fair and school programs. Those are jobs Lanzo used to do when he rode as a volunteer at events with the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office.

“Hasbrouck Heights was one of just a few towns in the county without a motorcycle,” he says, “and the HHPD has two avid riders who can use them to do funeral escorts and other events.”

STERN & BOWWOW!

A popular Closter restaurant has gone to the dogs—and in this case, that’s not a bad thing. This fall, Stern and Bow (171 Schraalenburgh Rd., 201.750.3350; sternandbowrestaurant.com) debuted a canine culinary experience for dogs and their owners. Dubbed “Bone Appétit,” the event featured a specially crafted

HAVE PLAN, WILL TRAVEL

Do slushy sidewalks and frozen fingers have you thinking about a warm vacation? Now’s the perfect time to act on those thoughts by booking a summer trip. Perhaps swing by the Jacob Javits Center on Jan. 25 and 26 for the New York Travel and Adventure Show for inspiration, or complete an itinerary on Jan. 28, the U.S. Travel Association’s National Plan for Vacation Day. When you do, consider these tips:

• Start early. The sooner you book, the better your selection of hotels, room types and destinations. Don’t wait for rates to drop, says Tatyana Benders of Olegana Travel Boutique in Ridgewood, as “more likely than not, you’ll wait too long and the rooms you want will sell out. If you have a specific week planned, your best bet is to book as early as you can.”

• Follow preference, not price. Tropical locations usually have the best promotions because bundled-up deals (hotel, airfare and transportation booked together) have big savings. But consider what you like: playing golf, hiking in nature, exploring cities. “See what would make a trip truly unforgettable,” Benders says. “The options are endless. Italy holds a special place in my heart.”

• Pick a hotel based on location. You might be tempted to book a hotel based on price, but you may end up paying more in the long run. Cheaper hotels may seem like a good deal, but you’ll likely spend more on ride shares, taxis or parking if using your own car.

• Go public. Speaking of transportation, get familiar with the trains and buses at your destination and use public transportation to get around. Save more expensive Ubers and taxis for going to and from the airport.

• Insure your trip. Many airlines have loosened cancellation and refund policies in recent years. Still travel insurance is recommended in case unexpected issues arise, such as inclement weather, illness or a family emergency that prevents you from taking the trip.

dog menu so pups can feast on their own meal while their human companions can dine on theirs.

“We’re dog lovers and know how much our customers adore their dogs, so we created an event that brings together food, fun and canine best friends,” says Russell Stern, owner of Stern and Bow. “This event is all about celebrating the joy pets bring to our lives, and of course, has a culinary twist.”

Bone Appétit launched as a oneoff event during the first weekend of October, but the fancy feast for pooches was so popular that Stern and his son, Michael, (both of whom each own Leonbergers) made it a weekly event through fall. Though Bone Appétit, an outdoor event, is on hiatus throughout winter, it will resume in spring, most likely April.

This means there will be plenty of opportunities for furry friends to enjoy the craft, vet-approved dishes. So what was on the menu? This fall, participating pups received a roasted beef marrow bone to start, then owners selected one of three entrées for Fido or Sally: an 8-ounce grilled sirloin with pumpkin puree and veggies, roasted chicken breast with veggiesor seared salmon with sweet potatoes and veggies. No meal is complete without dessert, and dogs enjoyed one of two options: a peanut butter dog biscuit cupcake or dog-friendly vanilla ice cream.

GIVING HOPE, SAVING LIVES.

Donald A. McCain, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.S.

Diplomate of the American Board of Surgery

• American Cancer Society 39th Annual Diamond Ball, Medical Honoree, 2018

• Jersey Choice Top Doctor 2024, New Jersey Monthly Magazine

• Castle Connolly Top Doctors Award 2024 New York Metro Area

• Inside NJ Top Doctors Award 2024

• 2016 Nobility in Science Award from National Pancreas Foundation

• Vice Chairman of the John Theurer Cancer Center

• Chief, Division of Surgical Oncology and Executive Vice Chair, Dept of Surgery, Hackensack Meridian Health University Medical Center

Donald

McCain, M.D.,

Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00

Dr. McCain is extensively trained in the latest most effective resection techniques, including robotic resections for gastric and colorectal cancer, and minimally invasive resections for pancreatic and liver cancer. Dr. McCain works alongside specifical nursing staff, and works collaboratively with medical and radiation oncologists at the John Theurer Cancer center to develop a treatment plan for each patient.

Vinsguir

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

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Gastroenterology

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Men’s Health

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Rehabilitation

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Urgent Care

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Vein Disease

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Wound Healing

Dune Rattan 3-Seater Sofa Safavieh Home Furnishings, Paramus, 201.291.0200

Rattan Starburst Wall Mirror Target, multiple locations

UNLOCK RELIEF FROM PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY

Discover Dr. Aleksandra’s Innovative Therapies

Living with peripheral neuropathy can be a challenge, marked by shooting pain, numbness, discomfort in hands and feet, and limited options for relief. However, there’s a beacon of hope in the comprehensive approach offered by Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM, LAc, and her cutting-edge clinic. The time-proven ancient science of acupuncture is combined with modern, non-invasive technological advancements of ATP BioResonance therapy, ozone insufflation, and LED light therapy into individualized treatments crafted by Dr. Aleksandra to provide not just symptomatic relief but a pathway to regenerate damaged nerves leading to improved quality of life, especially for those who feel they’ve exhausted other avenues.

Acupuncture: Ancient Wisdom Meets

Modern Precision

Acupuncture, a staple in traditional medicine, is reimagined under Dr. Aleksandra’s expert hands. Her technique, tailored to combat nerve pain, involves precise needle placements that help revitalize nerve function and enhance blood flow. This ancient practice is backed by modern research, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation associated with neuropathy.

ATP BioResonance Therapy:

Targeted Healing Frequencies

ATP BioResonance Therapy offers a non-invasive solution that utilizes specific frequencies to address the underlying causes of nerve pain. Dr. Aleksandra’s personalized ATP BioResonance protocols are designed to target the unique frequency needs of neuropathic conditions, promoting nerve repair and pain relief. Patients report significant improvements in sensation and mobility, often within just a few sessions.

O3 Insufflation: A Breath of Fresh Air for Your Nerves

Ozone therapy is another cornerstone of Dr. Aleksandra’s approach. By safely administering ozone via ear insufflation, this therapy enhances oxygen utilization in the body, which is crucial for healing damaged tissues and alleviating pain. Ozone insufflation has shown promising results in improving overall cellular function and reducing symptoms of neuropathy.

LED Therapy: Lighting the Way to Recovery

Adding another dimension to her comprehensive treatment portfolio, Dr. Aleksandra incorporates Celluma LED therapy, renowned for its role in promoting angiogenesis and pain relief. This innovative therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin, stimulating the natural healing processes at the cellular level. The light emitted by the Celluma device encourages the formation of new capillaries, enhancing blood flow to the affected areas. This not only helps to nourish tissues and remove waste products but also accelerates repair and relieves pain. Patients undergoing Celluma LED therapy in conjunction with Dr. Aleksandra’s other treatments often report faster recovery times.

TRANSFORMATIVE PATIENT SUCCESS STORIES

Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy:

James, a 58-year-old former cancer patient, struggled with debilitating neuropathy after his

chemotherapy regimen. His feet hurt all the time and the loss of nerve function in his right foot resulted in drop foot and extreme difficulty walking. Traditional medications provided little relief, and the persistent pain began affecting his daily life. After

beginning a combined treatment of acupuncture, ATP BioResonance therapy, and O3 Insufflation with Dr. Aleksandra, James noticed a remarkable reduction in pain and a significant restoration of feeling in his feet and hands. After about 4 months, his right foot regained its function and James was able to walk normally, a truly miraculous outcome.

Diabetic Neuropathy:

Maria, a 65-year-old with long-standing diabetes, faced severe neuropathic pain that made walking difficult. Her treatment regimen at Dr. Aleksandra’s clinic included ozone insufflation alongside acupuncture and LED light therapy. Within weeks, Maria experienced a dramatic decrease in pain and improved her walking ability, leading to a much-improved daily functionality and independence. She was able to go on a family trip to Italy and walk longer than ever before, only occasionally needing her cane.

Idiopathic Neuropathy:

Tom, aged 72, suffered from neuropathy of unknown origin. His mysterious condition left many doctors puzzled, but Dr. Aleksandra’s holistic approach offered new hope. Through targeted ATP BioResonance Therapy and regular ozone treatments, Tom regained much of the sensation he had lost and significantly reduced his pain levels.

WHY CHOOSE DR. ALEKSANDRA?

Dr. Aleksandra’s clinic, Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine is not just about treating symptoms but understanding and combating the roots of neuropathic pain. Her integrative approach combines the best of traditional and modern therapies, personalized to meet the needs of each patient. With a compassionate team and a track record of successful outcomes, Dr. Aleksandra offers a beacon of hope for those who have tried everything else.

Experience the difference with Dr. Aleksandra’s unique therapies and join the many patients who have regained control over their lives. Don’t let neuropathy define your life’s limits. Reach out today and step towards a pain-free tomorrow.

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FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

Curtain!

Maywood’s Gregory Liosi has Bergen community theater baked into his DNA—and he’s eager to continue that legacy.

Few are more embedded in Bergen County theater than Gregory Liosi, 52, a graduate of New York City’s American Academy of Dramatic Arts who is now artistic director of the Hackensack Performing Arts Center (affectionately called HACPAC). Born and raised in Hackensack with a father who was a passionate actor, the Maywood resident worked as a freelance director for years and still directs musicals for many local schools, including Bergen Catholic High School.

HACPAC opened in 2017 and proclaims itself “a home that nurtures new artists across various disciplines” besides bringing established acts to Bergen. Liosi has been a part of the HACPAC story since the beginning. He is married, and has two children: Lucas, a high school senior, and Cosette, a recent college graduate—she is, of course, named for the character in Les Misérables

She was in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, and now she’s Juliet on Broadway’s Romeo + Juliet. She performed here at HACPAC a few times.

When I introduced one of those high school shows, I told the audience to hold onto their programs. I knew she was going to be incredible. You never know who is going to be here at HACPAC now and in movies or on television in five or 10 years.

The hardest part of your job?

How did you get involved with theater?

It all goes back to my dad. He was an actor, and he was deeply involved in community theater all around Bergen County. He was an active part of the Bergen County Players in Oradell. As a kid, I sat in the audience and watched rehearsals. When I got to Hackensack High School, I was involved with theater there too. And I just kept going. Can you tell us more about your dad?

His name was George Liosi. I’m not the only one he inspired. He also was a teacher in the Hackensack school system, and he taught television production. There are people who work in television now because of the program he created. He passed back in 2012, and I met many people at his service who told me he was the reason they have the job they do. How did you come to be at HACPAC?

I worked for years at the Hackensack Cultural Arts

Center, which was part of the Department of Recreation, and eventually worked my way up to being artistic director there. We were based out of a small theater in downtown Hackensack. Around 2015, the City of Hackensack purchased the building that would become HACPAC. I was in the city manager’s office having a meeting about how that Cultural Arts Center theater needed updating—new carpets and paint, etc.—and he said, “Hold on for a second, let me show you something.” He took me to the new building and said they were thinking of making a performing arts center separate from the recreation department. What makes HACPAC special?

We want to be the fertile soil that theater companies, comedy troupes, improv groups and more can grow in. Besides the bigger acts we bring in, anyone can rent out our space. They get this beautiful little theater with state-of-the-art lights and sound, a concession stand, all of it. I can help too. I can guide them from point A to point B. They can “plant” and grow whatever they want.

A story from directing?

I directed Rachel Zegler in four shows at Immaculate Conception High School in Montclair.

My schedule is wacky.

Everything at this theater lands on my shoulders. Bills, giving tours, social media, making sure performers have the right thing in their dressing rooms, overseeing the box office—you name it.

How do you balance that with family life?

Now that they are older, my kids volunteer on shows here, and I get to spend time with them then. My daughter graduated with a minor in theater, and my son is more into audio and lighting. I’m directing my daughter in our Christmas show right now.

What’s special about theater in Bergen?

The talent pool is incredible. You see community theater in Bergen that would be Broadway caliber anywhere else on this planet, because so many people involved in the NYC theater scene live here. It’s more family friendly than Queens or Brooklyn, and more accessible than Long Island. That also means we’re competing with NYC for our audience, which is why I’m always looking for theater companies that are doing something new or experimental.

Something upcoming that you’re excited about?

We’ve never had a magician in here before, but we have one doing a show in January. We also have a Valentine’s Day show that’s going to be great—a singer named Stella Cole.

—Kirsten Meehan

Photo courtesy of Frank Borrelli

HEALTH

LAUGHTER FOR DRY EYES?

Laughter may be as effective as eye drops in improving symptoms of dry eye disease (DED), a chronic condition estimated to affect around 360 million people worldwide. (Common symptoms include uncomfortable, red, scratchy or irritated eyes.) Researchers say that laughter could be an initial treatment for relieving symptoms of dry eye disease. Evidence suggests that laughter therapy alleviates depression, anxiety, stress and chronic pain while strengthening immune function and is recognized as a beneficial complementary and add-on treatment for various chronic conditions.

—The BMJ

BELLY FAT LINKED TO CHRONIC PAIN

Excess abdominal fat is associated with widespread chronic pain, particularly in women, finds the first study of its kind. Reducing excess fat deposits in the abdomen may help reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain, especially if it’s experienced at multiple body sites, suggest researchers.

—Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine

LONG ER WAIT LINKED TO POOR OUTCOMES FOR HIPFRACTURE PATIENTS

DON’T RELY ON AI ACCURATE DRUG INFO

Patients shouldn’t rely on AI-powered search engines and chatbots for accurate and safe information on drugs, conclude researchers after finding a considerable number of answers were wrong or potentially harmful.

BMJ Quality & Safety

Waiting more than four hours in emergency rooms for treatment is linked to heightened risks of death and a longer hospital stay for hip-fracture patients, reveals a recent study.

The waiting time for more than 1 in 3 of these patients exceeded four hours.

—Emergency Medicine Journal

FUTURE DAD AND DIABETES MEDS

Potential fathers with type 2 diabetes can be reassured that taking the drug metformin is not associated with birth defects in their offspring, according to a large study of more than 3 million pregnancies. Researchers say the findings show that metformin can continue to be considered a suitable drug for managing blood sugar levels in men with type 2 diabetes who plan on having children. —The BMJ

FATAL FALLS AMONG OLDER ADULTS EXCEED FIREARM DEATHS

The cost of fatal falls among older people (ages 45-85+) exceeds those of firearm deaths in the U.S., finds recent research. Falls account for around 1 in 5 of all injury-related hospital admissions, and the World Health Organization reports that falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide, with folks 65 and older especially vulnerable, say researchers.

—Trauma Surgery & Acute Care Open

MATERNAL EXERCISE MAY PROTECT AGAINST ASTHMA

The risk of asthma in the child can be reduced by nearly half if the mother engages in active physical exercise at least three times a week during pregnancy, compared to a child of a mother who is less active, a new study reports.

—University of Eastern Finland

—Compiled by Paul Rance Jr.

THE YEAR OF YOU

A new calendar year offers a fresh start. Here are 13 of your neighbors’ New Year’s resolutions for 2025. What will you resolve?

The phrase “Set it—and forget it!” was once heard routinely on late-night TV rotisserie commercials. But that’s a feature New Year’s resolutions lack. When you decide to make a big change in your life come January, your success depends on remembering it. Bergen residents knew that when we asked them about the promises they’d made to themselves for ’25—and 13 of them were brave enough to share those promises anyway.

“My New Year’s resolution is to eat more salads, fresh foods and single-ingredient foods, and to stay away from highly processed foods.”

—William J. Martin, Westwood

“I want to get back to traveling. I went to Costa Rica in November, and I want to go to Asia next.”

—Renata Jaworska, Paramus

“This year, I want to focus on my thoughts, specifically learning how to better set them aside—perhaps by journaling or writing them down—instead of making them fuel my emotions.”

—Sabrina Segatta, Allendale

“I’m a mom of two very young kids, and I’m currently fighting stage 4 pancreatic cancer. I plan to help spread awareness for early detection and research and also be present and make as many memories as possible with my kids.”

—Jaclyn Hayes Lin, River Edge

“I resolve to volunteer more for kids with autism and special needs and to speak at schools and remind everyone that there are kids who just want to have friends or play or speak to someone about their circumstances. I am a mother with a 22-yearold who has special needs. All they want to say is ‘I am like you!’”

—Mirian Alonzo, Upper Saddle River

“I want to help my granddaughter get her first book published. She suffered an AVM brain-bleed rupture and a stroke at age 9 and had open brain surgery. She went through many months of rehab to get where she is today. She’s currently 18 and loves to write love poems and poems about herself.”

—Jeanie Miranda, Bogota

“Last year, my resolution was lose 10 pounds. happy to report only have more —Steve

“I hope to ease up on Amazon orders and online shopping in 2025.”

Jennifer Migliorino-Diaz, Moonachie

“My resolution for 2025 is to put the phone down.”

—Sandra Verdi-Darragh, Rochelle Park

“My resolution is to stick to a regular strength-training routine. I hope to do weight training three to five times a week without a trainer to start, so I turn my ‘dad bod’ into a ‘beach bod’!”

—Renato Villegas, River Edge

“I want to attend more networking events to make new and valuable connections for the nonprofit I work for.”

—Elaine Parra Santiago, Park Ridge

“It’s the same as always: to clean one drawer or closet a day.”

—Lisa Uvanni, Allendale

“I want to start saving more money and work toward a promotion at work.”

—Shannon McMackin, Oakland

“For 2025, I want to build healthier relationships with friends.”

—Christine Vitale, Bergenfield

DIETS— And Their Downsides

WANT TO SHED POUNDS IN THE NEW YEAR? HERE ARE SEVEN POPULAR PLANS—AND A DOCTOR’S VIEW OF THE PLUSES AND MINUSES OF EACH.

Raunak Singh, D.O. Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, Paramus

That gut, that butt, those thighs, that size—does a January glance in the mirror tell you it’s time to shed pounds? Never fear. Scrolling through social media will bombard you with suggestions from friends, brands and influencers alike. “Keto,” “paleo” and “raw food” are just three of the trendy names you’ll hear. Doctors, of course, say that healthy, balanced and restrained eating combined with exercise over the long term is more effective than “fad” diets. But it can be reassuring to get with a program that has a name.

“These diets have simple rules and promise results, and that’s part of their draw,” notes Raunak Singh, D.O., who practices family medicine and sports medicine at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus. “There’s a psychological appeal, because they claim to be easy and to make you healthy and slim. They cultivate a quick-fix mentality, and they treat the diet like it’s a short-term commitment instead of a permanent, healthy lifestyle change.”

Is there any diet Dr. Singh sings the praises of? BERGEN wanted to know, so we asked him what’s great about seven popular plans—and what’s not so great:

KETOGENIC DIET

Developed by Russell Wilder, M.D., in 1923 as a treatment for epilepsy, the ketogenetic diet (often

shortened to “keto”) operates off a “4:1” ratio—just one part of carbohydrates is consumed for every four parts of fat. In essence, it promotes eating a very small amount of carbohydrates (the main nutrient in foods such as bread and pasta) and replacing other carbs with fats. “You increase your fat intake to a point where you’re putting your body in a state of ketosis, which means it’s using fat as its main energy source,” Dr. Singh explains.

PROS: One thing remains consistent in studies of the keto diet, according to a 2022 study published in Frontiers in Nutrition entitled “Fad Diets: Facts and Fiction”: It’s effective in improving quality of life and seizure frequency in epileptic patients. It also has been associated with a “neuroprotective action” effect against neurological illnesses including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, because it encourages the production of ketones in the liver, which supply energy to the brain—though this benefit is still being studied. Cutting carbs to this extent can also encourage short-term weight loss.

CONS: However, says Dr. Singh, “a lot of that initial weight loss is water weight.” There are also possible health complications from going all-in on keto. In the short term, the 2020 paper “Consumer Reports of ‘Keto Flu’ Associated with the Ketogenic Diet,” also published in Frontiers in Nutrition, describes that affliction—those who have recently started keto often experience lethargy, low blood sugar, nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort. Says Dr. Singh: “People also don’t always look at the kind of fat they’re eating. So their diets may be high in saturated fats, and that comes with the risk of raising cholesterol.” He also encourages caution about diets that focus on totally restricting one food. “Be wary of anything that cuts out something entirely or tells you to only eat one thing,” the doctor says.

PALEOLITHIC DIET

Though this diet has been around since the mid-1980s, Loren Cordain, Ph.D., popularized it in 2010. The theory is that our modern diet, high in processed foods, dairy products and grains, is the main cause of obesity. To combat it effectively, Cordain said, people need to eat as their hunter-gatherer ancestors did. The diet puts no restrictions on lean meats, fruits or non-starchy vegetables (such as carrots or broccoli), and largely cuts out dairy, legumes, cereals and processed foods.

PROS: “Eating more whole foods and avoiding

the heavily processed stuff is a great goal,” says Dr. Singh. This diet cuts out a lot of unnecessary sugar and carbs without upping the saturated fat in your system as keto does. It can also produce short-term weight loss, usually as a symptom of getting rid of carbs and sugary drinks in their entirety. Though this is a restrictive diet, there are more options than there are in keto and, as the doctor says, “It can be a great place to kick-start your health journey, and then you can slowly add back in the dairy and grains.”

CONS: The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics notes in a 2024 examination of the diet, “Should We Eat Like Our Caveman Ancestors?”, that its lack of whole grains is not ideal. Whole grains have been connected with a lowered risk of heart disease and some cancers. “Cutting out both grain and dairy also cuts out nutrients you need,” says Dr. Singh. “Dairy is the greatest source of calcium for most people.” He adds a practical point: “It’s also expensive to buy only whole foods all the time.”

MEDITERRANEAN DIET

One of the best-studied diets out there, this one prioritizes whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, olive oil and fish, with allowances for alcohol, dairy products and meat. Most calorie intake comes from fish and plant-based foods.

PROS: This diet has been linked to a lower occurrence of cardiovascular disease. And not only has it been summarized as “nutritionally adequate for the general public” in a study published in Nutrients (“The Mediterranean Diet and Nutritional Adequacy: A Review”), but research has also shown its preventive potential for chronic diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and breast cancer. In a 2024 study by Women’s Health Initiative, a Mediterranean diet was associated with a reduced risk of premature death in women. Because this diet does not heavily restrict food groups, it is less challenging to follow long-term.

CONS: People searching for an intensive immediate weight-loss solution may not find what they are looking for here, despite Mediterranean cuisine’s healthy rep. Also, if you’re worried about your iron levels, the lack of red meat may give you trouble unless you find compensatory sources.

RAW-FOOD VEGAN DIET

This diet plan takes veganism one step further. Besides cutting out meat, fish and other animal

products, it also specifies that you eat only uncooked, unprocessed, plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains. Instead of traditional heating and cooking, raw food diets rely on juicing, dehydrating and blending as preparation methods. Some raw-food vegetarian (rather than vegan) diets allow the consumption of raw eggs and dairy, but this is less common because of food contamination concerns. This diet focuses on the health benefits of whole foods; its proponents consider even the application of heat to be removing foods from their most healthful state.

PROS: Plenty of benefits come with cutting red meat out of your diet. Too much red meat has been associated with heart disease, colorectal cancer and diabetes. In addition, processed meats, particularly processed chicken, have been associated with a higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. As noted above, cutting out carbs and high-fat processed foods will lead to short-term weight loss in many people. The raw-food diet is also naturally high in fiber, which is connected to a lowered risk of prostate cancer and certain gastrointestinal issues.

CONS: That fruits and vegetables are healthy is well proven; that they have a higher health benefit if eaten raw is highly debated.

Dr. Singh adds that “with plant-based diets, there’s a danger of people not getting the right nutrients, vitamins and minerals, leading to deficiencies— and that can produce other health complications.” Meat and animal products are our bodies’ easiest source of things like zinc, iron, vitamin E, vitamin B12 and essential fatty acids. The raw-food diet is also low in calcium and highly restrictive—a red flag, our doctor says, for a plan you may not be able to stick to.

INTERMITTENT FASTING

Rising in popularity, this diet approach is all about the when rather than the what Instead of calorie or food-group restriction, intermittent fasting focuses on scheduled eating and abstaining from food entirely for certain periods. Popular methods include alternate-day fasting, wherein you fast or restrict food every other day, and periodic fasting, wherein you eat normally within an eight-hour period and fast outside that time.

PROS: There is some evidence that intermittent fasting facilitates weight loss for certain people and populations. A review published in Canadian Family Physician (“Intermittent Fasting and Weight Loss: Systematic Review”) found that, on average, people lost 4.3 percent of their body weight

practicing intermittent fasting for periods from two to 12 weeks. The National Institute on Aging also identifies this diet as more than a temporary weight-loss plan, noting that there is “interest in [its] potential health and aging benefits.” Our doctor says: “Yes, intermittent fasting can help some people, but you need to be careful with it.”

CONS: “Sometimes, people think, ‘Oh, this is my time to eat,’ and then they overdo it,” says Dr. Singh. “Or they’ll pick unhealthy foods. Also, this method isn’t good for a hectic schedule. What if there’s only one window in 16 hours when you can eat and you don’t have time to do so then? Then you’re not eating at all.”

Lack of nutrition on fasting days can leave you sluggish, unfocused and irritable.

THE ATKINS DIET

Developed in the 1970s by the late cardiologist Robert Atkins, M.D., this diet seeks to correct a “metabolic imbalance resulting from carbohydrate consumption,” which he theorized was the main cause of obesity. It takes place over four phases, the first cutting carbs to under 20 grams a day for two weeks, and then slowly reintroducing them until reaching the “lifetime maintenance phase” in which a person is eating between 40 to 90 grams of carbs a day. Protein-rich foods are emphasized.

PROS: Cutting complex carbs from your diet will almost always result in a short-term shedding of “water weight,” as our expert has noted, and high-protein diets are known for being satiating and satisfying. In general, low-carb lifestyles combined with other “healthy” eating habits— keeping calories to the recommended number per day, stressing fruits and vegetables and limiting fat intake—have been shown to lower body weight across the board. A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition also showed a correlation between low-carb diets and lowered blood pressure. CONS: Restricting carb intake to this degree is notoriously difficult, and Atkins has a high dropout rate. For example, one bagel is about 48 grams of carbs—almost all of your daily allowance in the lifetime maintenance phase. And dropping in and out of diets can have some serious consequences. “Many fad diets are hard to maintain very long-term,” says Dr. Singh. “If people are not able to stick with something, they start yo-yoing. They’ll lose weight and then gain it back, and every time they gain it back it becomes harder to lose it again. It’s frustrating, and it makes the whole process harder.”

WEIGHT WATCHERS

Designed to help you eat anything in moderation, Weight Watchers assigns “smart points” to different kinds of foods and then helps you track the number of points you eat in a day. Different diet plans offer different points goals. Some foods are zero points, such as fruits, vegetables and lean protein, meaning that these can be eaten at will. Portions of foods such as cheese, popcorn and salad dressing cost points, and that encourages you to eat smaller amounts of them.

PROS: One of Weight Watchers’s selling points is not “banning” any one food or food group. Having more options makes you more likely to stick to the plan, and therefore more apt to have long-term success. The Weight Watchers program also offers workshops and support groups for people on a weight-loss journey, and these, says our doctor, can make all the difference. “Programs like Weight Watchers, where other people help you keep you on track and give you a support system, can be very helpful,” Dr. Singh says.

CONS: You need to pay to have access to everything Weight Watchers has to offer, which is a huge barrier to entry for some. (Dr. Singh notes, however, that these expenses are sometimes covered by health insurance.)

As with intermittent fasting, some who follow this plan feel the need to “stock up” on points so they can later overeat guilt-free, possibly with unhealthy foods, and that’s not ideal. Weight Watchers’s own health notices state that, though its program was created by dietitians, it isn’t for everyone. The plan should be avoided by those who are under age 18, pregnant or following an eating plan to treat a disease, whether that be diabetes or an eating disorder.

None of these diets is sheer fraud, but none is instant magic either. The point is to put knowledge, discipline and good sense together and, above all, be good to your body by choosing healthy foods. Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional before embarking on a major change in your eating, says Dr. Singh. And don’t celebrate victory or concede defeat too early—long-term improvement is what counts. Remember what the doc says: “The only diet that really works is the one you can stick to.”

Special Report

HOW TO THRIVE IN

For a healthy new year, don’t just ignore that medical issue that’s been worrying you— get it checked out. Here’s the lowdown on a dozen such concerns.

BY LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF

“Should I see a doctor about that?” It’s a question we’ve all asked ourselves, whether our concern was a funny-looking mole or a family history of cancer. To help you answer that question, we’ve brought together some of Bergen’s best doctors, who share their insights here about when to make an appointment and which diagnostic tests may unlock the secret of what ails you.

OUR EXPERTS:

Ernest Chang, M.D.

Ali Hadi, M.D.

Wanda Choy, M.D.

Ashwin Jathavedam, M.D.

Darian Eletto, M.Ed.

Srikant Kondapaneni, M.D.

Mina Shaker, M.D.

Naimish Baxi, M.D.

Jamie Koprivnikar, M.D.

1IF

YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: WEIGHT GAIN

. . .

you’re not alone. More than 75 percent of Americans are either overweight, defined as having a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 29.9, or obese, with a BMI of 30 or higher. (You can ascertain your BMI online at cdc.gov/ bmi/adult-calculator.)

When to see a physician: There’s no magic number, but, says Mina Shaker, M.D., chief of internal medicine at Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, “The higher up you are on the scale, the more you should be concerned,” because excess weight can contribute to illnesses ranging from diabetes and heart disease to cancer. Dr. Shaker notes that if you’ve put on more than 8 to 10 pounds over a one- to twomonth period, you should definitely see your doctor because you could be suffering from an underlying issue such as thyroid disease. Tests and possible treatments: Your doctor will likely run a blood workup to see if another condition is responsible for the gain and ask about medications that may also contribute to it. You may be asked to track your food intake and activity to see if changes in diet and exercise might solve the problem. Otherwise, you may be a candidate for one of the new GLP-1 agonists such as Ozempic and Wegovy, which could help you lose about 15 percent of your overall body weight. (A caveat: Data indicate that you’ll need to stay on the medication permanently to keep from regaining the weight. And if you’re depressed and a stress eater, taking a GLP-1 agonist could actually increase your depression.) If you need to lose more than 15 percent, your doctor may suggest bariatric (weight-loss) surgery.

2

IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: YOUR SLEEP . . .

you might consider moving to Maine or Minnesota, where, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only about 30 percent of residents are sleep deprived, as opposed to some 39 percent in New Jersey. But wherever you live, sleep problems are on the rise, and they can contribute to a host of conditions, ranging from depression and memory problems to a weakened immune system and even wrinkles.

When to see a physician: It may be time, says Srikant Kondapaneni, M.D., a pulmonologist with the Englewood Health System, “if you’re unable to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night, struggle to fall asleep (indicating insomnia) or wake up feeling tired and fatigued despite sleeping (suggesting poor sleep quality).”

Tests and possible treatments: Your doctor may use the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, which is designed to measure daytime sleepiness. If a medical issue such as apnea or narcolepsy is suspected, you may benefit from an overnight sleep study, a test that records biologic functions during slumber. Treatments could include changes in pre-sleep habits (such as a ban, before bedtime, on the blue light emitted by computer and tablet screens), use of a device de- signed to facilitate nocturnal breathing, as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine.

3IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: LONG COVID and you don’t have COVID at the moment, the best way to avoid long COVID is to protect yourself from the virus itself by staying up to date with vaccinations. That way, even if you do contract the condition, you’ll likely have a less severe bout and perhaps avoid long COVID, advises Ashwin Jathavedam, M.D., an infectious disease specialist with Englewood Health, who notes that “people who have never been vaccinated seem to have a higher risk of severe episodes of COVID, as well as long COVID developing.”

When to see a physician: Contact your doctor if your COVID symptoms haven’t resolved after about four weeks and you have one or more of the main symptoms of long COVID—fatigue, limited exercise capacity, shortness of breath, muscle pains, sleep disturbances, brain fog and difficulty concentrating—or other, less common chronic symptoms, like alteration of bowel habits, headaches, dizziness and vertigo.

Tests and possible treatments: There’s no test yet for long COVID, so, says Dr. Jathavedam, “It’s a diagnosis of exclusion—usually the doctor will run tests to make sure there’s no underlying alternative disease process that would explain the symptoms.” Treating long COVID generally means treating the symptoms, so you’ll likely be directed to an appropriate specialist or specialists: heart and lung doctors if you’re experiencing shortness of breath, for instance. According to the CDC, many people with long COVID see symptoms resolve within three months of its onset, and studies show that, on average, cases of long COVID are less severe now than they were a couple of years ago.

4IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: YOUR SKIN . . . you should know that the three most common skin issues are eczema (a group of conditions causing irritation and inflammation), and skin cancer. You already may be treating the first two with over-the-counter medications, such as azelaic acid and hydrocortisone cream.

When to see a physician: For eczema, “if you have red, itchy skin that’s starting to cause cuts or bleeding, I would advise seeing your dermatologist for treatment before it gets out of hand and affects your daily life,” says Ali Hadi, M.D., a dermatologist with Englewood Health. For acne, he suggests seeing a dermatologist if pimples take many days to go away and leave scars. Signs of skin cancer that require immediate medical attention include growths that are new, enlarging, changing, bleeding or darkening. Tests and possible treatments: Your dermatologist will conduct a physical exam and may perform a skin biopsy. If cancer is found, depending on the type and position, treatment may include surgical removal, radiation therapy, topical chemotherapy and, if you have persistent melanoma, a newer procedure such as TIL (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapy), which boosts immune response. For acne not responding to over-the-counter treatments, your doctor may suggest a prescription retinol (a form of vitamin A) and for eczema, a prescription steroid.

6

5IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT:

CANCER . . .

know that the four most common kinds are breast, colorectal, lung and prostate—and be aware of risk factors. “The risk factor that’s common to all four,” says Jamie Koprivnikar, M.D., a hematologist/oncologist with Hackensack Meridian Health, “is family history.” For breast cancer, she says, risk factors also include advanced age, alcohol consumption, high BMI, taking prescribed estrogen and progesterone, early-onset menopause and late-life, full-term pregnancy. Inflammatory bowel disease and cystic fibrosis can predispose you to colorectal cancer, which is more common in African Americans and is being detected more often now among people under 50. Risk factors for lung cancer include smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, radon and asbestos. African Americans and those exposed to Agent Orange are at greater risk for prostate cancer.

When to see a physician: Consult your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms: for breast cancer, nipple discharge or a breast lump; for colorectal cancer, blood in the stool or a change in bowel habits; for lung cancer, coughing up blood, night sweats, or unintentional weight loss; for prostate cancer, slow or weak urine stream, frequent or painful urination, blood in the urine, prostate pain, loss of bladder or bowel control or ejaculation issues.

Tests and potential treatments: To spot any of these cancers early, follow your doctor’s guidelines for regular tests such as mammograms, colonoscopies, chest X-rays and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests. All of the above tests may be used to diagnose cancer—as well as others, such as breast ultrasound for breast cancer and a chest CT (computed tomography) scan for lung cancer. As with most cancers, possible treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy.

IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: A CHRONIC COUGH

. . .

while your first worry may be lung cancer, you could, in fact, be suffering from postnasal drip, acid reflux, asthma (yes, you can develop asthma at any age), COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or lung scarring.

When to see a physician: A cough is considered chronic if it lasts more than eight weeks, and that’s when you should see a doctor. A caveat: “Even if it’s been less than eight weeks, if you’re having other symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pains, or if you’re bringing up a lot of phlegm, you should be seen immediately,” says Wanda Choy, M.D., chief of pulmonary medicine with Valley Health System.

Tests and possible treatments: You’ll likely have a chest X-ray and possibly a pulmonary function test, in which you’ll breathe into a mouthpiece to determine how well air is moving in and out of your lungs. The doctor also may check your sinuses (for postnatal drip) and your esophagus (for reflux). Treatments could include medications for postnatal drip, reflux or asthma or surgery along with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and/or immunologic therapy for cancer.

7

IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: SHORTNESS OF BREATH (DYSPNEA) . . .

you may be feeling it as chest tightness, difficulty taking a deep breath, or gasping for air—different people experience this problem in different ways. When to see a physician: “If it’s very out of the ordinary for you, you should be seen,” says Dr. Choy. “If it’s come on gradually and is worsening over a couple of months, you should also be seen.” If you own a pulse oximeter—a device that clips onto your finger and measures the amount of oxygen in your blood—and it reveals that your oxygen level is below 95, you should see a doctor.

Tests and potential treatments: A pulmonologist will do an X-ray and test your blood oxygen with a pulse oximeter. You’ll also likely have an electrocardiogram (EKG) to determine if the problem is heart related; if the EKG indicates a possible heart problem, the doctor may order a CT scan. A pulmonary function test (see “chronic cough,” above) will likely be done, and blood tests may be ordered to check for thyroid problems and anemia, both of which can cause dyspnea. Treatments could include medications or, if a growth is causing the problem, surgery. See “heart health,” below, for possible treatments for cardiovascular problems.

IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: HEART HEALTH

. . .

you may already be aware that heart disease is the leading cause of death for all Americans—though the rate of heart disease is lower in Bergen than in most of the rest of New Jersey and the country at large.

When to see a physician: According to Ernest Chang, M.D., a cardiologist with Valley Health System, you should see your doctor if you experience shortness of breath, especially on exertion; chest pain that may radiate to the neck, jaw, or down the left arm; palpitations (the feeling that your heart is racing, thumping, or skipping beats) or swelling in the lower leg. “Patients with a high-risk underlying condition such as diabetes, high cholesterol, or a strong family history of heart disease like heart attack, atrial fibrillation, arrhythmia or heart failure should be on high alert for these symptoms,” says Dr. Chang.

Tests and potential treatments: Your doctor may start with an EKG to check your heart’s rhythm. That might be followed up with an echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart, to see the structure of the heart and assess the function of the heart muscle. You might also be given a cardiac CT scan or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging test) to check for blockages in the coronary arteries, and/or a stress test, to see how the heart functions under exertion. Treatments include catheterization to find blockages and open them up with a tiny wire-mesh tube called a stent, replacement of a damaged heart valve with a prosthetic valve, and ablation for arrhythmia, in which a thin, flexible tube is inserted into the heart and either heat or cold is used to create scars that will block the arrhythmia. Whatever your doctor about research has shown to a Mediterra-

CONCERNED ABOUT: FORGETFULNESS

Shaker, that “by far the most common reason is mild age-related cognitive impairment, that down, including caring for your mental well, exercising, reducing toxins such as alcohol smoking, and even doing puzzles and mental exercises.” report in The Lancet revealed that lifestyle changes reduce your risk of dementia by as much as 40 percent. to see a physician: It’s good to see your doctor regarany memory-related worries, advises Dr. Shaker, if only your worries. and potential treatments: Your doctor will likely administer the MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) in which you’ll be asked to perform a series of tasks as drawing a clock and finding commonalities between (oranges and apples, for example). If the test indicates significant memory loss, your doctor may order bloodwork imaging tests to see if an underlying medical issue, thyroid disease, a brain tumor or a vitamin deficiency, is blame. If the MoCA test is inconclusive, your doctor may it at intervals to determine if your memory is declining. most types of dementia (for instance, those caused Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and vascular diseases) can’t be their progression can be slowed with drugs such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine.

10

IF

YOU’RE CONCERNED

ABOUT: FALLING you already know that finding yourself on the ground is more than just embarrassing: In fact, falls the greatest cause of injury among those 65 or older. A recent study showed that if you can’t stand on one leg for more than 10 seconds, you’re twice as likely to die over the next seven years as people with better balance. (But you can reverse that risk with balance exercises.)

When to see a physician: “If you’re falling consistently, you should see your doctor,” says Dr. Shaker, who says there are many causes for frequent falls, including muscle weakness, balance issues, gait problems, a blood pressure drop on standing (which can be caused by anemia, muscle weakness or hypertension medication) and even tripping hazards around the house.

Tests and potential treatments: Your doctor will likely start with three simple tests: asking you to stand on one leg (to test balance), to go from sitting to standing five times in a row (to test strength) and go from sitting to walking to sitting (to test gait). You’ll probably be prescribed physical or occupational therapy or at-home exercises to improve the areas that need help, and your doctor may also change your medications, advise a change in footwear and/or send you to a podiatrist.

11IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: JOINT PAIN IN THE SHOULDER, KNEE OR HIP

you may have begun to curb activities that trigger discomfort, and perhaps you’ve applied some over-thecounter topical pain relievers.

When to see a physician: “When pain becomes functionally limiting—when you’re finding it hard to do the things you need to do, like standing, walking, dressing and using the toilet, or the things you want to do, like hobbies and sports, that’s a tipping point to see a doctor,” says Naimish Baxi, M.D., a physiatrist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Paramus.

Tests and potential treatments: You’ll be given an oral history interview and a physical exam. After that, your doctor may take X-rays to see whether you have damage to the joint, and if so, how extensive it is. You may be prescribed physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that support the damaged joint or medication—most likely a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen. Your physician may also suggest cortisone shots, which ease pain by reducing inflammation. He or she may also try hyaluronic acid injections to lubricate the joint. If arthritis and pain in your shoulders, hips or knees are severe, you may be helped by joint replacement surgery, which, Dr. Baxi says, “has come an incredibly long way, in terms of outcomes, even over the past decade.”

12

IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT: DEPRESSION . . .

you may be feeling more than just temporarily down. While depression can have many causes—from a chemical imbalance in the brain to a difficult life situation to a traumatic event that occurred recently or in the past—it’s definitely a biochemical reaction. When to see a physician: “As mental health professionals, we recommend that people seek professional help when they notice that their symptoms are interfering with day-to-day functioning,” says Darian Eletto, a licensed professional counselor who is chief clinical officer, behavioral health, at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. If you’re finding it hard to take care of yourself or others, deal with daily responsibilities or even get out of bed in the morning, you may be clinically depressed. Tests and possible treatments: A therapist will talk with you to help you find the approach that’s best for you. That may be one of the most popular and efficacious forms of talk therapy known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which aims to make clients aware of negative patterns of thinking. Other talk-based therapies that can help with depression are solution-focused therapy, a goal-directed approach utilizing the client’s answers to a series of questions, and dialectical behavioral therapy, especially useful for those who experience emotions very intensely. Drug therapy may be combined with talk therapy or used on its own. Usually, a therapist will begin with one of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Zoloft or Prozac because, says Eletto, “they’re very mild and have fewer side effects than other medications.” But finding the right antidepressant is, she stresses, a matter of trial and error. If it appears that you’re suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression associated with the waning light of winter, you may be prescribed talk therapy and/or a mild antidepressant and asked to take practical measures like spending more time outside or installing a special kind of indoor light that mimics daylight.

ESCAPES

CHINATOWN’S

This month, in five great U.S. cities, that distinctive neighborhood will welcome the Year of the Snake.

January begins with the Times Square ball drop and fireworks—and this year it ends with lanterns and lion dances. Widely celebrated throughout East Asia, the Lunar New Year begins Jan. 29, and that means millions will be ringing in the Year of the Snake with joyous celebrations. Cities like Hong Kong and Beijing will be transformed into living light shows, but you needn’t pack your passport to enjoy the fun. Right here in the U.S., the Chinatowns of five major cities are ready to sweep you into the new year in style:

NEW YORK. N.Y.

A comparative stone’s throw from central Bergen, just 25 miles away, Manhattan’s Chinatown takes in the territory south of Broome Street and east of Lafayette Street. Keep your eyes peeled—the area is lined with vendors selling everything from eels to rambutans to boba. In classic Big Apple form, this New Year’s celebration goes all out. The yearly parade begins at Mott Street and then moves downtown, and the celebration is capped off with the always-impressive lion dances. Stick around until Feb. 16 and be treated to a Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival, with incredible food, amazing visuals and plenty of vendors.

Where to eat. You’ll find a wealth of options in this Chinatown. Every local foodie has devoted favorites, but you can’t go wrong with Chrystie Street’s Potluck Club, with spins Chinese classics in new, modern directions, or Green Garden Village on Grand Street for Cantonese favorites. On Division Street you’ll find Fong On, the city’s oldest family-run tofu shop. Outside the festivities. The Museum of Chinese in America, tucked into Chinatown, celebrates all things Chinese American. The American Museum of Natural History has a whole hall dedicated to Asian peoples and cultures. More musically inclined? On Feb. 11 the New York Philharmonic offers a full symphonic celebration of the Year of the Snake. (You know Broadway, Rockefeller Center, Greenwich Village and this city’s many other attractions. But don’t look for too many Chinese names at Ellis Island’s National Immigration Museum, because in 1882 the U.S. enacted the Chinese Exclusion Act, which barred Chinese workers as immigrants for many years. Wrote one angry Chinese American to the New York Sun, explaining why he declined to contribute to a public fund for the new Statue of Liberty’s pedestal: “This country is the land of liberty for men of all nations except the Chinese.”) More info. betterchinatown.com

BOSTON, MASS.

Established in the 1890s, Boston’s Chinatown is the only historic Chinatown in New England. (It’s also home to the third-largest Chinese community in the U.S.) You’ll enter it through lion-flanked gates after traveling 225 miles from Bergen. The yearly parade is an all-day spectacle, usually starting at 10 a.m. and going until the late afternoon. Firecrackers and performances abound, and watch for some truly special food vendors. Where to eat. You’ll get a lot of gratification poking around hole-in-the-wall dim sum shops but, for a sit-down meal, Taiwan Café on Oxford Street offers mouthwatering pan-fried dumplings and other traditional Taiwanese dishes, such as Sichuan-style white fish served in bubbling chili oil. Pho Pasteur on Washington Street is another local staple with plenty of Vietnamese options. Outside the festivities. Rich in culture, Boston is filled with things to do in the winter, whether you’re looking for art, history or sports. Catch a Bruins game at TD Garden (known for its electric atmosphere), browse the Museum of Fine Arts or bundle up and take a stroll down the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, which connects 16 nationally significant historic sites.

More info: chinatownmainstreet.org

MOMENT

CHICAGO, ILL.

You may want to opt for a plane for this 780mile trip, but check out Chicago’s Armour Square, another of America’s top Chinatowns. It’s also highly walkable—window-shop and browse Chinatown Square Plaza’s tea shops and specialty grocers. See the Nine Dragon Wall on West Cermak Road, a giant public art piece that celebrates ancient Chinese folklore in stunning jewel tones. The 2025 Lunar New Year celebration on Feb. 9 will feature traditional dragon and lion dancing teams and colorful floats in addition to marching bands and community groups. Where to eat. You can go super-traditional and try Chiu Quon on South Wentworth Avenue, the oldest bakery in the neighborhood. This is the place to go for authentic pork buns, dim sum and egg custard tarts for dessert. Something more sitdown? Ken Kee Restaurant on South China Place has an extensive Cantonese menu. (Try the Hong Kong Boat Noodles.)

Outside the festivities. Take advantage of the season and head to Millennium Park, where the iconic and distinctive McCormick Tribune Plaza & Ice Rink will take you in loops for stunning views of the city. If you want to catch a show, try the Tony Award-winning Goodman Theatre, which will be putting on the Pulitzer Prize-winning, fivetime Tony-nominated play Fat Ham More info: chicagochinatown.org

SEATTLE, WASH.

A trip to the Pacific Northwest will take you more than 2,800 miles—and into the heart of a vibrant Asian-American community. The Historic Chinatown Gate—ornate, 45 feet tall and made from some 8,000 imported ceramic Chinese tiles—will greet you as you arrive. Lunar New Year is an all-day festival in Seattle, as vendor booths line up along South King Street and dance performances take the main stage at Hing Hay Park. On Feb. 1, the Seattle Asian Art Museum will host a Lunar New Year Family Festival with live lion dances, drop-in art activities with local artists and story times.

Where to eat. The oldest Chinese restaurant in the city is Tai Tung on King Street, where you can find an authentic spread of all your favorites (plus more). Something more adventurous? Kilig on Eighth Avenue South offers Filipino cuisine from James Beard–nominated chef Melissa Miranda. Outside the festivities. At the Panama Hotel and Tea House, you can sample artisan teas from around the world before checking out the only Japanese-style bathhouse left in the U.S.A. If this is your first visit to the Emerald City, the Space Needle and the Pike Place Market are two attractions that live up to the hype. Another option: The Museum of Pop Culture is fun, informative and a hit with locals and tourists alike.

More info: visitseattle.org

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF.

This is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, the farthest of our five from Bergen at about 2,900 miles—and despite the comparative youth of most West Coast development it’s also America’s oldest. Its Lunar New Year celebration matches that legacy and scale. Enjoy a Flower Fair Market on Jan. 25 and 26, when you can purchase fresh flowers, fruits and candies from more than 120 booths while taking in traditional Chinese magicians, acrobats and folk dancers. The parade kicks off Feb. 15, and the route spans one-and-a-half miles, all filled with music, dancers and floats.

Where to eat. Begoni Bistro on Jackson Street offers Chinese cuisine with a unique French influence, all tied together by the capable hands of Howard Wong, a well-known face among this Chinatown’s restaurants. You can also head to Commercial Street and try Four Kings, which started as a pop-up restaurant before settling down to serve Cantonese-inspired cuisine with incredibly fresh seafood.

Outside the festivities. Film buffs can check out the Noir City Film Festival in nearby Oakland, which from Jan. 24 until Feb. 2 offers screenings from the classic film noir genre. Or you could choose one of the milder days (January in San Francisco tends to hover in the mid-50s) and enjoy a stroll around Golden Gate Park, ride a cable car or take a walking tour through this (admittedly hilly!) architectural gem of a city. More info: sanfranciscochinatown.com

—Kirsten Meehan

TASTES

Perfect Pairings

These sweet and savory dishes make wonderful centerpieces for your winter meals. And they’re delicious too!

BEEF TENDERLOIN WITH CRANBERRY AND SHALLOT RELISH

Yields 6-8 servings

INGREDIENTS

For the Beef:

n 2¼ lbs. beef tenderloin

center cut roast

n 2 Tbs. Chinese five spice powder

n 5 Tbs. olive oil

n 2 Tbs. kosher salt

n 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Relish:

n 1 shallot, peeled and chopped

n 1½ cups whole fresh or frozen cranberries

n 1½ cups sweet apple, like Gala, chopped

n ¼ tsp. kosher salt

n 1 Tbs. sugar

n 2 tsp. orange zest

n ¹/³ cup orange juice

n ¹/³ cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped

DIRECTIONS

For the beef: Remove tenderloin from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Heat oven to 450°F.

Make a paste with the Chinese five spice powder, garlic and 3 tablespoons of olive oil and set aside.

Rub salt all over tenderloin. Heat a large, oven-proof sauté pan on medium-high heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook the tenderloin, turning until each side is a rich brown, 1 to 2 minutes per side.

Transfer the entire pan to the oven and roast for 15 minutes for medium-rare; internal temperature should be 120°F to 125°F on a meat thermometer. When tenderloin is done remove it to a cutting board and tent with foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes.

For the cranberry relish: In a food processor chop the shallot and cranberries for 5 to 6 pulses. Remove to a bowl and stir in remaining ingredients. Serve with the sliced tenderloin.

“Beef tenderloin is a lean cut of beef, which keeps the saturated fat for this recipe in check. The combination of fruits and aromatics adds depth of flavor while providing a boost of antioxidants, fiber and vitamins. This dish is a delightful way to enjoy a special meal without compromising on health.”

—Anna Khesin, registered dietitian/nutritionist, Riverfront Nutrition, Oradell

TASTES

PORK ROAST WITH CHESTNUTS, FIGS AND DATES

Yields 6-8 servings

INGREDIENTS

n 3 lbs. pork shoulder roast boneless

n 1 cup onions diced

n 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil

n ¾ cup dark rum

n 2 bay leaves

n 1 tsp. ground cardamom

n 1 tsp. ground nutmeg

n 3-4 cloves

n 1 tsp. chili pepper flakes

n 2 garlic cloves

n 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted and halved

n 1 cup chestnuts cooked, whole

n 1 cup dried figs

n 1 cup chicken broth

n sea salt

n freshly ground pepper

DIRECTIONS

Season the pork shoulder with sea salt and freshly ground pepper all over. Leave it out on the counter to reach room temperature and dry brine a little for about 1 hour.

Using a thick bottom pot (like a Dutch oven) sear the meat in mediumhigh heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil for 6-7 minutes, until it is golden brown on all sides.

Add the rum and let the alcohol evaporate for 1 minute. Then, add the spices, cloves, bay leaves, garlic cloves and diced onions.

Add the broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover the pot and cook for about 1.5 hours until the meat is tender.

Add the dried fruits and chestnuts to the pot and cook on very low heat for another 30 minutes.

Remove the meat and fruit with a slotted spoon and arrange them on a serving platter. Pour the sauce in a gravy boat and serve.

“Use low-salt chicken broth in this recipe as a healthy substitute. If you don’t have dark rum, try swapping it for rum extract or apple cider. When shopping for dried fruits, make sure you pick an option with no added sugars. For a leaner protein option, swap the pork roast with pork tenderloin or chicken breast.”

—Janet Brancato, registered dietitian/nutritionist, Nutopia, Glen Rock

Kickstarter

Spice up brunch or evening happy hour with this spin on a classic cocktail.

BLOODY MARY MARSALA

Makes: 1 serving

INGREDIENTS

n 1½ oz. dry Marsala

n ½ oz. lemon juice

n 4 oz. tomato juice

n 3 dashes Tabasco sauce

n 10 dashes

Worcestershire sauce

n lemon wedge and celery stalk, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Combine the first five ingredients in a tall glass over ice. Stir well, and garnish with the lemon wedge and celery stalk.

“If you want to give a Bloody Mary a good kick, use a couple of dashes of sriracha in place of Tabasco. Sriracha has a stronger pepper flavor that will really give this cocktail some heat.”

—Shawn Lynch, mixologist, Hackensack

HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS TO WATCH

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

RAPHAEL S.F. LONGOBARDI, MD

Orthopaedic Surgeon - Sports Medicine and Athletic Injuries Specialist

130 Kinderkamack Rd., 3rd Floor, River Edge, NJ 07661 201.343.1717 | www.universityorthopaedic.com

Dr. Raphael S. F. Longobardi is a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine and athletic injuries. He graduated from Fordham University with a B.S. in Biology and earned his medical degree from NYU School of Medicine. Dr. Longobardi completed his orthopaedic residency at NYU Medical Center and a sports medicine fellowship at the Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic.

Dr. Longobardi is deeply committed to medical education, serving as an Associate Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery at NYU Langone Medical Center and mentoring orthopaedic residents at RWJ Barnabas, as well as students at both Fordham University and Bergen Academies in Hackensack, NJ. His vast experience includes serving as Team Physician for the NY Islanders, Florida Marlins, and NY-NJ MetroStars, and he now practices at RWJ Barnabas Health.

His expertise in advanced surgical techniques ensures optimal care for his patients, providing exceptional outcomes in orthopaedic treatments, and he remains a trusted figure in the field of sports medicine.

JAMES W. CAHILL, M.D.

ERIC CONTRERAS, M.D.

Cahill Orthopedic Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement 87 Summit Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601 | 140 North State Rt., 17, Suite 255, Paramus, NJ 07652 111 Dean Dr., Suite 1 North, Tenafly, NJ 07670 | 201.489.0022 | www.cahillorthopedic.com

Cahill Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Joint Replacement offers specialized care in sports injuries and joint replacements.

Dr. Cahill has specific expertise and interests in ACL reconstruction, arthroscopic shoulder stabilization and rotator cuff repairs, as well as extensive experience in the management of pediatric sports injuries and trauma. Board certified, Dr. Cahill has advanced fellowship training in orthopedic sports medicine and routinely provides care for professional, collegiate and high school athletes. His practice is proudly affiliated with Hackensack Meridian Health, where he is a senior attending orthopedic surgeon and performs surgery at Holy Name and Valley hospitals. His surgical techniques are at the forefront of Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Sports Replacement. He routinely performs in and out patient Mako robotic assisted total joint arthroplasties. Dr. Cahill is now Chief Orthopedic Team Physician for St. Peters University in Jersey City.

Dr. Contreras is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in shoulder and elbow surgery, sports medicine and joint replacement. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his orthopedic residency training at The Ohio State University, where he trained with expert surgeons taking care of NCAA Division 1 athletes. He then completed his fellowship training at the prestigious NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital in New York City, where he trained in all aspects of shoulder and elbow surgery under the guidance of world-renowned orthopedic surgeons.

Pictured from left to right:

DR. ROY DAVIDOVITCH, DR. CRAIG CAPECI, DR. THOMAS YOUM, DR. ADAM COHEN, DR. JONATHAN STIEBER, DR. AMY BIRNBAUM

34 S. Dean St., Suite 202, Englewood, NJ 07631 | 551.369.1250 | www.orthoenglewood.com

OrthoEnglewood is a multi-specialty orthopedic surgery private practice featuring Orthopedic Surgeons with a primary academic affiliation with NYU Langone Health. Our brand-new, state-of-the-art ambulatory surgical center in Englewood is designed exclusively for orthopedic and spine procedures, offering the highest level of care close to home.

What types of procedures do you perform regularly?

Our surgeons perform a multitude of procedures, including but not limited to: Anterior Approach Total Hip Replacement; Hip, Knee & Shoulder Arthroscopy; Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery; Robotic & Computer Navigated Total Hip, Knee and Shoulder Replacements; ACL Reconstruction; and Complex Hand and Wrist Reconstruction.

Direct Anterior Approach Hip Replacement Surgery— minimally invasive hip surgery to replace the hip joint without cutting through any muscles or tendons.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)—the latest technology available to perform spinal surgeries through small, less than one-inch-long incisions.

Arthroscopic Surgeries—can be performed on any joint; a surgical procedure to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint using a specialized instrument known as an arthroscope.

Do you use any special technologies?

At OrthoEnglewood, we use advanced regenerative treatments like Stem Cell Therapy, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections, and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) to harness your body’s natural healing power. These cuttingedge options repair tissues, relieve pain, and may even delay surgeries, offering a new approach to orthopedic care.

What are some characteristics that make your practice unique?

Top-Tier Expertise, Concierge Level Care, Cutting-Edge Surgical Center, and Innovative Regenerative Therapy.

GENTLE DENTISTRY, P.A.

173 Terrace St., Haworth, NJ 07641 | 201.384.1611 | www.gentledentistry.com

Since 1961, Gentle Dentistry has been helping patients smile. Soon to be three generations strong, Dr. Andrew Spector will be welcoming his oldest son, Jay Spector, to the practice in 2025, building upon a legacy of over six decades of collective experience centered around personalized service and exceptional technique. Recognized as a 2024 top finalist in (201) Magazine’s Best of Bergen Readers’ Poll for Health and Beauty, Gentle Dentistry is honored to serve the community with empathy and grace, while advancing the spirit of minimally invasive dentistry. Dr. Spector’s work has also been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, NJ12, and in The New York Times.

As a trailblazer in the field of virtually pain-free care, Gentle Dentistry embraces the most revolutionary dental technology. The multi-specialty dental team offers comprehensive services where minimally invasive, technology driven techniques provide the best in implant dentistry, cosmetic smile makeovers, and technology enhanced general care. Our licensed and highly trained staff is truly exceptional, providing unparalleled expertise and unwavering care. Their attention to detail ensures the office runs seamlessly and every patient leaves with a smile. Additionally, Dr. Spector’s unique vision for aesthetic dentistry is shaped by his passion to deliver beautiful, natural smiles. Experience a different kind of dentistry where the name conveys the promise and philosophy of compassionate care complemented by impeccable results.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Venezuela’s Flavors

Zetta’s Arepas Bistro in Cliffside Park is a homey haven for a distinctive South American cuisine.

While others mastered how to bake banana bread and bagels during the pandemic, I spent nights learning about arepas. I made the flatbread cakes following a simple Argentine recipe, which used a pre-cooked corn flour available at most grocery stores. Some of them were too thick, others were thin and impossible to slice. There were burned ones as well.

Don’t get me wrong; some of my arepas were good, and I stuffed the edible ones with simple ingredients like ham and cheese. But I knew I’d have to dine out to get an authentic taste.

There’s been a gradual increase in the number of restaurants specializing in Central and South American cuisine, especially in Bergen County. While I’ve always been curious about them, none really caught my eye the way Zetta’s Arepas Bistro did late last year. The restaurant specializes in classic Venezuelan street food—arepas in particular—and one look at its social media posts reeled me in.

My girlfriend and I visited the small eatery in the heart of the borough’s downtown and were warmly greeted by staff. It’s a casual environment: At one table sat a family of five (with a young child glued to the cartoon playing on his tablet), then there were two twenty-somethings sharing dessert, another couple with a dog waiting for a to-go order and us. Everyone said hello to one another.

This immediately put me in my comfort zone, allowing me to eat like I was around family. And so we started with a shared appetizer, tequeños filled with chicken and beef. These crusty, bite-sized morsels (baked Venezuelan bread) were stuffed with melted queso blanco (Instagram-worthy cheese pull!) and either juicy shredded chicken or just-as-juicy shreds of beef flavored with hints of cumin, chili and peppers. An order comes with an odd number of pieces, so I wrestled an extra bite from my girlfriend’s fork to get the last taste of the truly wonderful dish.

For my main course, I selected two items thinking that they’d be equivalent to one large dish. Oh, boy, was I wrong. The first was Zetta’s version of a Venezuelan hot dog, or

what the restaurant calls a maxi hot dog. It truly earned the “maxi” name—the 9-inchlong dog had the perfect snap and was neatly topped with mounds of cabbage and carrot salad, bacon, cheese, corn, potato sticks and ketchup. It made me feel as if I were on an episode of Man v. Food, and I savored every delicious bite. Usually a spic-and-span eater, I couldn’t help but make a mess eating the maxi hot dog—a sight that made nearly everyone in the restaurant join in my laughter.

My second dish, caraqueña arepa, wasn’t as big as the first, but it was much larger than I had anticipated. The cornmeal cake also had a delightful crispness and slightly sweet taste—everything I’d hoped for when I first tried to make one in my kitchen. Inside the bread was an abundance of pulled chicken and beef, the same flavorful meats in the tequeños, with avocado slices on top.

For her entrée, my girlfriend had chevere cachapa, a traditional corn dough pancake filled with plenty of shredded beef, cheese and butter. I was allowed one bite of my girlfriend’s dish; afterward, I had to slyly sneak another when she was distracted by the previously mentioned puppy in the room.

After we’d consumed a full round of savory food, our server couldn’t believe we asked for a dessert menu—and she showed further astonishment when we requested an Oreo street milkshake. “At least we’re splitting it,” I said, sharing a chuckle with everyone. I’d seen this shake on Zetta’s social media channels, but the photos did not do it justice. The concoction was crafted perfectly, with a chocolate fudge cookie, vanilla ice cream and bits of Hershey’s chocolate on top of a thick Oreo milkshake. Zetta’s does have more traditional Venezuelan treats like fruit salads, cakes and the classic creamy rice-based drink called chicha venezolana, but we couldn’t say no to the Oreo shake.

While I’ll continue my trial-and-error efforts in the kitchen, I know now that Zetta’s is a place nearby where I can enjoy a perfect arepa and other Venezuelan flavors any time I want.

—Darius Amos

GROWING YOUR WEALTH

How long has your company been in business?

With 31 years of expertise in financial services, Jeffrey Barnett founded Fintegrity® in 2017, a fiduciary registered investment adviser. Designed for individuals investing over $1 million, Fintegrity® offers a highly personalized approach, going beyond traditional financial advice to deliver a truly tailored experience.

What is your investing philosophy?

At Fintegrity®, we embrace behavioral finance principles, recognizing that market inefficiencies create unique opportunities. Our disciplined strategy focuses on investing in high-quality businesses with strong cash flows, sustainable competitive advantages, and reasonable valuations. We craft personalized, diversified portfolios tailored to each client’s specific goals, risk tolerance, and preferences. By combining rigorous quantitative analysis with qualitative insights, we seek to build resilient investment strategies that can navigate market complexities and deliver favorable returns.

What are a few things someone should look for in an investment advisor?

Key Selection Criteria:

• Fiduciary commitment

• Transparent, fee-only compensation

• Proven expertise in wealth management

• Personalized strategic approach

• Comprehensive, accessible communication

2025 will be a year of change. How are you directing clients?

Sectors Likely to Benefit:

• Financials: Reduced regulatory constraints and potential merger and acquisition opportunities

• Tech and Health Insurers: Deregulation advantages

• Domestic Industries: Oil & Gas, Mining, Manufacturing

Everybody seems to be talking about saving for retirement. Am I saving enough? Will my money last? What is your biggest rule of thumb when it comes to saving for retirement?

A general rule of thumb for retirement savings is to aim for 25 times the annual amount you’ll need to supplement other income sources, such as Social Security. This calculation assumes a 30-year withdrawal period, beginning with an initial 4% withdrawal from your savings, adjusted annually for inflation, and that your assets are invested 60% in stocks and 40% in bonds. However, for a more accurate and tailored approach, we suggest running personalized simulations using Monte Carlo analysis to assess the feasibility of your retirement plan. Key retirement considerations:

• Begin planning at least five years pre-retirement

• Integrate healthcare cost projections

• Implement tax-efficient withdrawal strategies

• Conduct personalized retirement simulations

Why do clients choose Fintegrity®?

Distinctive Advantages:

• 30+ years of financial expertise

• Harvard MBA leadership

• Direct collaboration with founder

• Customized investment strategies

The incoming Trump administration is expected to drive significant market changes through potential 1020% broad tariffs on imported goods, corporate tax cuts, and extensive deregulation. Jeffrey Evan Barnett

• Proven portfolio management results

• Experience providing sustainable retirement income

NJ 07671 201.266.6829 | jeff@fintegrity.com | fintegrity.com

Jeffrey E. Barnett, Founder

Jeffrey Barnett founded Fintegrity® in 2017 and manages the firm. Jeffrey has more than 30 years of experience, including a decade at TIAA, the trilliondollar asset manager, where he led the product management of a $40 billion portfolio. Prior to that, he held a variety of roles at JPMorgan and M&T Bank. Mr. Barnett graduated Harvard Business School with a master’s degree in Business Administration and earned a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, at the University at Albany.

Bergen County Residents Choose Fintegrity® for Personalized Investment Management

Are you getting the attention you deserve from your financial adviser?

At Fintegrity®, we understand the frustration of feeling like just another number with large financial firms. That’s why many of our clients have turned to us for a more personalized approach.

I established Fintegrity® in 2017 to offer personal attention and unique investment solutions aligned with your goals, and more importantly, your dreams. Many clients who began their investment journey with us now enjoy monthly income as their portfolios reach new heights.

Why Choose Fintegrity®?

Direct Collaboration: Always work directly with me, ensuring we consistently tailor strategies to your unique situation. No junior personnel or staff changes.

Expertise: 30+ years of financial experience and a Harvard MBA.

Unique Solutions: Every solution is customized for your goals and preferences. For portfolios over $1 million, enjoy greater control and tax efficiency by investing directly in stocks and bonds.

Fee-only fiduciary: We act in your best interests, providing transparency and trust.

Client Testimonials:

• “We found Jeff to be incredibly responsive... He’s smart and knowledgeable. But most importantly, he has been a calming voice during this current market volatility.”

– Josh & Margaret W.

• “Given our age we have had several financial advisors through the years and none have helped us as much as Jeff…” – Jean B.

• “Jeff Barnett is a brilliant, analytical thinker with much to offer in addition to his great expertise in investing and financial planning... coupled with his absolute integrity and humility.”

- Herb T.

Disclosures: Testimonials are from Fintegrity® clients who were not compensated for their comments. Investing involves risk, including potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Wealth

Eric Lalime, CFP®, CIMA®, C(k)P

Managing Director

Whetheryou are selling a business,inheriting wealth,or looking ahead towards retirement, we work in close collaborationwithour investment team and outside advisors toensure your plan iscreated efficientlyand effectively withyour defined objectives in mind.Asyour lifechanges and evolves,your plan grows withyou -and as stewardsof your wealth, we’rewithyou everystep of the way.

Whetheryou are selling a business,inheriting wealth,or looking ahead towards retirement, we work in close collaborationwithour investment team and outside advisors toensure your plan iscreated efficientlyand effectively withyour defined objectives in mind.Asyour lifechanges and evolves,your plan grows withyou -and as stewardsof wealth, we’rewithyou everystep of the way.

Whetheryou are selling a business,inheriting wealth,or looking ahead towards retirement, we work in close collaborationwithour investment team and outside advisors toensure your plan iscreated efficientlyand effectively withyour defined objectives in mind.Asyour lifechanges and evolves,your plan grows withyou -and as stewardsof your wealth, we’rewithyou everystep of the way.

Whether you are selling a business, inheriting wealth, or looking ahead towards retirement, we work in close collaboration with our investment team and outside advisors to ensure your plan is created efficiently and effectively with your defined objectives in mind. As your life changes and evolves, your plan grows with you -and as stewards of your wealth, we’re with you every step of the way.

Whetheryou are selling a business,inheriting wealth,or looking ahead work in close collaborationwithour investment team and outside advisors iscreated efficientlyand effectively withyour defined objectives in mind.Asyour evolves,your plan grows withyou -and as stewardsof your wealth, we’rewithyou the way.

Whetheryou are selling a business,inheriting collaborationwithour iscreated effectively evolves,your withyou

Whetheryou business,inheriting work in close collaborationwithour investment iscreated efficientlyand effectively withyour and evolves,your -and as stewardsof your wealth, we’rewithyou everystep of the way.

Contact us toschedule a meeting

Contact us toschedule a meeting

Contact us to schedule a meeting

Contact us toschedule a meeting

Contact us toschedule a meeting

GROWING YOUR WEALTH

Dream. Plan. Live Life to the Fullest...

Let’s Talk

You have worked hard to achieve the success most people only dream about. Now you need to optimize your most valuable limited asset—TIME, empowering you to achieve your financial goals. Imagine going through a process where you will feel heard and understood by a dedicated professional looking out for your best interest and goals. The result is a custom financial plan that can help bring you comfort while dealing with life’s complexities. A holistic approach to wealth management that offers straightforward guidance can help you evaluate and make decisions for building and protecting your present and your future.

Individuals who have a financial plan in place that is implemented, monitored and updated on a regular basis are more likely to achieve what is most important to them. Having a plan can enable hardworking professionals to focus on activities they truly enjoy, empowered with financial confidence.

Deborah Richin, a Financial Advisor with UBS, takes your financial security to heart by helping you invest in your dreams. A trusted advisor and perhaps, most importantly, a true partner, Deborah is there to offer straightforward guidance to help you achieve what’s most important to you, even in the most uncertain times. “Working together, I will help you make informed decisions, so you feel confident in your choices,” says Deborah.

Can your wealth strategy endure the current state of the global economy, handle the impact of policy decisions and weather the outlook for financial markets in the years ahead, while helping you achieve your longterm financial goals? As a senior portfolio manager and Certified Financial Planner™ serving high net worth individuals, Deborah A. Richin positions you to achieve your goals no matter what uncertainties prevail in the current business climate.

UBS

Call today and invest a few hours of your valuable time to go through Deborah’s complimentary 90-minute discovery session and explore why it makes sense to work together. Providing a 360-degree review of your current strategy, Deborah will help you learn if your portfolio is properly allocated and positioned for our everchanging environment. Don’t Wait.

FINANCIAL PLANNER™ in the U.S. which it awards to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Wealth management services in the United States are provided by UBS Financial Services Inc. (“UBS-FS”), a subsidiary of UBS Group AG. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS-FS offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that clients understand the ways in which we conduct business, that they carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to them about the products or services we offer. A small number of our financial advisors are not permitted to offer advisory services to you and can only work with you directly as UBS broker-dealer representatives. Your financial advisor will let you know if this is the case and, if you desire advisory services, will be happy to refer you to another financial advisor who can help you. Our agreements and disclosures will inform you about whether we and our financial advisors are acting in our capacity as an investment adviser or brokerdealer. For more information, please review client relationship summary provided at www. ubs.com/relationshipsummary.

© UBS 2024.All rights reserved. The key symbol and UBS are among the registered and unregistered trademarks of UBS. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS GroupAG. Member FINRA/SIPC. IS2404415, 12/31/2025

Deborah A. Richin, CFP® First Vice President-Wealth Management Senior Portfolio Manager

ON THE TOWN

Be There

Start the year off right with concerts, laughs and festivals all over our county.

Ridgewood will host the CONCERT FOR UKRAINE local vocalists and suggested donation, 6 in Kharkiv, Ukraine, doctors. The show uuridgewood.org helpinghandsukraine.org.

JAN. 9

Get ready to laugh in Rutherford with funnyman BENEDICT POLIZZI, who stops by Bananas Comedy Club for a one-night show. Featured in People magazine, E! News, Men’s Health and more, Polizzi is known for his charisma and his highly clickable standup routines. See him live on stage, starting at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information, head over to bananascomedyclub.com.

JAN. 11

Delight your future scientist the Mahwah Library with the LIBERTY SCIENCE CIRCUS SHOW Part educational program and part magic act, this event will explore physics and the science behind attraction, repulsion electricity in a kid-friendly format. The show starts at 2 p.m., and registration is required. For more information, see mahwahlibrary.org.

JAN. 12

JAN. 12

Take advantage of the last day of the “LET IT GLOW” HOLIDAY LANTERN SPECTACULAR at the Bergen County Zoo in Paramus. This annual event dresses up the zoo in more than 30 scenes of largerthan-life, animal themed lanterns for you and your family to marvel at. Tickets also include a train ride and a s’mores kit. The lights turn on at 4 p.m. Visit friendsofbergencountyzoo.org for tickets and more information.

Join the Bergen County Audubon Society for its annual EAGLE FESTIVAL at the Meadowlands Environment everything eagle walks, tables, children’s artwork contest at 10 a.m., Jan. 19. For bergencountyaudubon.org, email Don greatauk4@gmail.com.

JAN. 12

For a family-friendly night filled with music, head over to the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood for DISNEY’S ENCANTO SING ALONG

You can do more than watch this musical adventure—the audience is encouraged to belt out the songs along with the Madrigal family in the movie. Both 1 and 4 p.m. showings are available. For tickets, see bergenpac.org.

JAN. 17

JAN. 19

MAPLE SUGARING is back at the Tenafly Nature Center. Participants can learn how to identify a maple tree and the history of syrup making, and then tap a tree and boil down sap for a warm, sweet treat. This is an outdoor program, so make sure to bundle up and dress appropriately. Programs available at 11:30 a.m. For registration and over to tenaflynaturecenter.org.

JAN. 19

Support young local at Maywood School SEASONAL SHOW

Five Dimes Brewery in this is a showcase of very best talent and music that spans decades and genres. The music begins at noon. For more information, visit schoolofrock.com.

JAN. 25

Enjoy a tale as old in Wyckoff, where the Kids will be putting on its rendition of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST program offers a condensed, 30-minute of the story you love, with Belle, Beast and the whole enchanted

The Ethical Culture Society of Teaneck hosts for musicians, storytellers. Both equipment can performers, and snacks will be available Don’t want Spectators are welcome! starts at 7:30 p.m. see ethicalfocus.org.

The For information, wyckoff ymca.org.

Gatherings

1. HOLY NAME MEDICAL CENTER

Officials and staff at the Teaneck hospital unveiled the new, state-of-the-art, Level III Neonatal

Intensive Care Unit. The center features cuttingedge technology to support premature and critically-ill newborns.

2-3. CHILDREN’S AID AND FAMILY SERVICES

Children’s Aid and Family Services of Paramus hosted its 125th anniversary gala at Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes. More than 200 guests attended the event, which raised money to support programs for vulnerable children, adults and families.

4-5. FAMILY PROMISE OF BERGEN COUNTY

Ridgewood-based Family Promise held its annual gala at the Edgewood Country Club in River Vale. The event featured dinner, dancing, a silent auction and other activities to benefit the organization’s mission of providing temporary housing and personalized support to those in need.

6. SAX 4 MILER

Friends, family and businesses from all over North Jersey participated in the 13th annual SAX 4 Miler, held in Parsippany. Since its debut in 2012, the event has raised $1 million for the Child Life Department at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson.

7. BERGEN COUNTY OPEN SPACE TRUST FUND

County Executive Jim Tedesco and the Board of Commissioners presented a check for $138,808 from the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund to Saddle Brook Mayor Bob White and the Township Council. The grant will help fund improvements to Kern Park.

8-10. ARTS COUNCIL OF GLEN ROCK

The Arts Council of Glen Rock held its fourth annual Arts Fest outside of Glen Rock Borough Hall. Despite the rain, hundreds of community members enjoyed a day of art, music and plenty of fun. The Arts Council provides a place where artists of all kinds can thrive and show off their individual talents.

Getting Connected

BERGEN’s networking event brings our business community together.

FRIENDS OF BERGEN NETWORKING EVENT

Dozens of Bergen County business owners, community members and friends joined BERGEN magazine for an evening of great food and cocktails at Park West Tavern in Ridgewood. BERGEN Publisher Tom Flannery, Editor in Chief Rita Guarna and the magazine staff were happy to help connect the business community.

Photos by Paterno Cappelli

A BERGEN MOMENT

“My dog Molly and I have been hiking in Bergen County for nine years. Every time we go, it’s always fresh and new. Here we are on the yellow trail at the Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah, where the autumn colors are always wondrous.”

James Shammas, Franklin Lakes

Send us your Bergen Moment! Email

Photo courtesy of James Shammas

This year, resolve to invest in yourself and those you love. With a full team of primary care providers, specialists to address your unique health needs, and premier wellness services for lifelong health, Valley offers something for everyone at every age and stage of life.

There’s never been a better time to learn how Valley can help you and your family stay well. And with online scheduling and providers