LOVE LESSON TEACHERS WED IN A CEREMONY FOR THE BOOKS
A WILD BIRTHDAY BABY’S FIRST IS ‘1’ TO REMEMBER
OH, BOY! A FESTIVE BABY BLUE SHOWER
ELEGANT EATS in Mahwah
The new hospital will be the heart of a 40-acre health and wellness campus – a one-stop destination for inpatient care, outpatient procedures, and appointments with many Valley doctors.
Everyone admitted to The Valley Hospital in Paramus will receive their own room, enhancing patient privacy and providing a superior environment for your loved ones to spend time with you.
More than 30 percent of Valley’s Paramus campus will feature green space. At the new hospital, gardens, lawns, and walking pathswill provide a beautiful, park-like setting. Best practices for energy efficiency, space utilization, waterconsumption, and use of natural light will be incorporated.
Embarrassing Signs | 36 That bodily problem you’d rather not talk about—is it trying to tell you something?
You’re Only 1 Once | 42
In a safari-themed first birthday party, a floral designer and her family celebrate a budding life and a milestone year.
Two Teachers’
Nuptial Lesson | 48
When your wedding is suitably classic, you remember. When it features a dancing 97-year-old, everyone remembers.
A FAMILY AFFAIR
A baby boy on the way was an excuse for a party, one that drew on the whole clan’s talents.
p.38
Fun’s On Deck | 54 Memories will be made when a few thoughtful details take an outdoor patio party from good to great.
Emergency-Care Emergency? | 58 Bergen’s ambulance services aren’t yet on life support, but an EMT shortage threatens to undermine patient care.
IN EVERY ISSUE
6 Editor’s Note
32 Health News
84 Where to Eat 92 Be There
Bergen Buzz | 15
Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the county.
Your Friends & Neighbors | 22
Recent knee replacements didn’t stop Bergen neurologist James Shammas from reaching— with his daughter—the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Style Watch | 24
Flutter sleeves add a feminine touch to springtime tops and dresses.
Jewelry Box | 26
Give Mom the rainbow with any of these pretty pieces!
Home Front | 28
A vibrant, whimsical area rug will add excitement underfoot.
Escapes | 62
Well-manicured horticultural preserves can be a treat for the senses and a lift for the spirits. Here are five that aren’t far.
Tastes | 64
These vitamin-packed, protein-rich recipes work well for a weeknight meal and are impressive enough to serve company.
Bar Tab | 82
Raise a glass of this citrusy cocktail as you toast the summer season.
Restaurant Review | 90
Fill up and have fun at Cliffside Park’s Brazeiro Churrascaria, where rodizio’s done right.
Gatherings | 94
Bergenites always show up to support their friends and neighbors—especially when help is needed most.
One Bergenfield mom reflects with her newlyadopted son at Cooper’s Pond, a significant spot for their family.
It wasn’t the wedding’s white floral arrangements, exactly, that got 97-yearold Grandma up and dancing. Nor did safari hats necessarily make 1-year-old Aiden reach for a microphone at his Korean-style birthday bash, foretelling possible fame as a singer. Even a certain baby shower might have succeeded without its blue-and-white swirl lollipops. We thoughtfully plan an event’s every detail, but details aren’t what matters most. At the best celebrations a kind of magic happens that you can’t entirely script. A party is more than the sum of its parts.
Why, then, do we bother so lovingly with our elaborate preparations? I’ve thought about that while preparing this, BERGEN’s annual issue about celebrations, and I’ve come up with an insight that’s a secret—except to all givers of fêtes. Staging soirées for others to enjoy is a kick all by itself, and getting the details right is its own delight. You can’t choreograph magic, but you can fashion an environment where it’s likely to ignite. That’s why I hope you’ll vicariously enjoy, as we do, the wedding with Grandma (page 48), the safari-themed birthday party (page 42) and the blue-andwhite baby shower (page 38).
Isn’t May a celebration all by itself? Mother Nature’s on board with that claim, and every other mother too. (We’re no fools, having our “Day” when the warm sun has found us again but hasn’t yet begun to oppress.) On page 15, you’ll read about a mother and daughter who run a successful business together. (Could you do that with your mom? Would the fact that it’s a chocolate shop make the proposition sweeter?)
Of course, BERGEN celebrates our county—in the broadest sense—12 months a year, not just one. Sometimes that means looking at its challenges, not just its special occasions. Ambulance services here in Bergen, for example, suffer from a shortage of emergency medical technicians, the folks who go around saving lives. (See our Special Report, page 58.) And don’t turn away with a blush from the health article on page 36. It’s about things our bodies do that we wish they didn’t—at least not in public. (Relax, we’re all human. But don’t let embarrassment stop you from checking out something that might signal a real medical problem.) On page 18 you’ll find six places to go to toast Mom’s Day (or any other occasion) in style. And if you’re a hungry carnivore (some of us aren’t), imagine a paradise where you sit grandly while they bring 14 kinds of meat to your table, one by one (page 90).
What makes a successful celebration? Why, it’s the people, of course. And the love they bring to it. And the lollipops. And those moves Grandma’s been saving up.
When you think about it, isn’t there really quite a lot to celebrate?
Rita Guarna Editor in Chief editor@wainscotmedia.com
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We have an issue with Mental Health Awareness Month.
Well not exactly, but we believe mental health awareness must be a priority 24/7/365.
The impact on mental health is at epidemic proportions. From pandemic isolation to new ways of working, financial uncertainty, societal unrest, and relentless social media - it’s not surprising that mental health issues and suicide are at alarming rates, with children and young people being especially vulnerable.
At Hackensack Meridian Health, we’re taking the lead to expand the conversation, care, services and resources throughout New Jersey. Not just in May, but every day of the year.
From inpatient to outpatient mental health and psychiatry, addiction treatment and more… we’re ready to help.
Our locations throughout New Jersey include:
Hackensack Meridian Health (hospitals, outpatient clinics, physician offices)
Carrier Clinic (dedicated acute inpatient mental health, youth/adolescent school and residential facility)
Blake Recovery Center
Retreat & Recovery at Ramapo Valley (addiction detox, rehab, IOP)
Carrier Behavioral Health
at Raritan Bay Medical Center
Better weather tends to bring out more drivers, and we’re seeing more and more cars on our roadways. Combine that with the increasing number of homes and places to shop and you have an instant traffic jam. Fixing Bergen County’s notoriously congested roads will require creativity and funding—and it’s a topic we feature online.
To reduce car count on roads such as routes 4 and 17, Zoe Baldwin, New Jersey director of the Regional Plan Association, makes a few suggestions: putting in people movers (bus rapid transit) in large shopping areas, deleting curb cuts to reduce ingress and egress points along highways, creating on-demand transit systems that work similarly to Uber and Lyft and extending the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail.
Despite efforts to alleviate traffic, certain factors might be out of local officials’ hands. For instance, the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) is planning to roll out a congestion pricing plan, charging a toll to vehicles that enter Manhattan south of 61st Street. This inevitably would encourage many drivers to cross the George Washington Bridge to avoid the new toll.
“There will be an increase in truck traffic across the GW Bridge going into the outer boroughs to avoid the congestion tax and therefore more pollution to Bergen County,” says Congressman Josh Gottheimer, who has been actively fighting the congestion pricing plan. He tells BERGEN that “the governor of New York has admitted that this is about nothing except the cash grab. The MTA needs money.”
Read our full report at bergenmag.com/traffic-trauma-inbergen.
Let’s just say this little girl hasn’t yet warmed up to the idea of being a big sister. This cutie is 18-month-old Sophie Eliya of Hillsdale, who was the star of a gender reveal video that her mom, Shannon, posted to Instagram. The Eliya family wanted an intimate gender reveal for baby No. 2 and felt like having the big-sister-to-be bite into a cupcake with pink or blue inside was a cute way to share the news. “I knew this would be our second and last child, and I wanted to find out the gender all together as a family and include our daughter,” Eliya tells BERGEN. Eliya was 20 weeks pregnant when the video was filmed; she and her husband, Jay, are expecting their baby boy in mid-July. As for Sophie? “Sophie doesn’t really understand she’s going to be a big sister and have a baby brother yet,” says Mom, who’s raising her family in her childhood home that she and her husband purchased from her parents. “I think she just wanted us to leave her cupcake alone!” Watch the cute video at bergenmag.com/a-cupcake-gender-reveal.
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OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTY.
The bond between mothers and daughters is undeniable— especially if they happen to be business partners! Katrina
“Trina” Villani and her mom, Rhonda Villani, co-own Trina’s Treats in Lyndhurst, a chocolate shop that Rhonda started and named after her oldest daughter 30 years ago.
The shop went on hiatus while Rhonda raised her children—until about 10 years ago, when Trina learned how to make chocolate and revived the family business. Last year Trina’s was booming, and Rhonda quit her 9-to-5 job to dedicate all her time to the shop. In February, Trina’s Treats debuted its accompanying ice cream parlor in a vacant spot next door.
It’s not always easy mixing family with business, especially for these two ladies who, with their husbands, share the same two-family home. But Trina and Rhonda say they love every minute of working together. “Being able to work with each other every day is the best part,” Trina tells BERGEN. “We’re both creative and artsy, and we work off each other well.”
Want to support other mother–daughter duos in our area this Mother’s Day? Treat yourself to a mani/pedi or wax with Miok or Sunny at Family Nails 7 Spa in Fair Lawn, or book a table at Elia in Rutherford, co-owned by Annamaria Adinolfi and her mama, Anna Rosati.
Mom deserves the world, and we wouldn’t hesitate to give it to her. Mom, of course, doesn’t necessarily want anything and everything—all she ever wants is health, happiness and what’s best for her family. But if she had the chance to ask for something, Mother’s Day is the day to deliver. Below, the moms on BERGEN’s staff share what they want for their special day:
“Of course I thoroughly enjoy getting together with the whole family, especially my beloved grandbabies. But what I really covet: a day to spend alone with my son, maybe take a walk, have lunch— just the two of us. A bunch of flowers would be nice too!”
“My ideal Mother’s Day would be sleeping in with no kids, dog or husband waking me. Afterward, there would be a nice meal outdoors at home or out with my kids, my mom and family—a meal I do not have to plan or clean up after and no one complains about the food or location!”
“I want to start hiking with my son Oliver, who’s almost 1. For an awesome day trip, Minnewaska State Park in New Paltz, N.Y., has a waterfall and a lake that you can walk around. I want to take Ollie to see the waterfall and then to hike around the lake and have a picnic there.”
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—Jacquelynn Fischer, director of ad services
“I’d love a Mother’s Day where I can sleep in, get a mani/pedi or a massage and then enjoy a quiet solo lunch. I’d love to meet up for dinner or order in with my family, my sister’s family and our own mom— basically, I want a little alone time, some self-care and for someone else to cook for me!”
—Haley
Longman, lifestyle editor“The best Mother’s Day would be to celebrate with my daughter, son-in-law and their newborn baby, Blake. That would make it the best Mother’s Day ever!
—Mary Masciale, associate publisher
“I’d like a nice relaxing day at home to spend time with the family—and maybe some takeout from a favorite local spot like Badlands Tacos or Brothers Barbecue.”
—Catherine Valentine, director of operationsDID YOU KNOW? More than 141 million cards are sent for Mother’s Day in the U.S., according to the folks at Hallmark. But the holiday only ranks third on the list of top greeting card holidays. Christmas tops the list with 1.6 billion cards, followed by Valentine’s Day (151 million).
DID YOU KNOW? Earrings were the most popular Mother’s Day gift in New Jersey last year, according to career building website Zippia. The company analyzed search terms and Google Trends to determine the most sought after gifts in each state.
Best Mother’s Day gift you could give the ladies in your life? It just may be a gentle nudge to book their health screenings. May is National Women’s Health Month, when women (including non-moms) are reminded not to procrastinate about taking care of their bodies.
“Regular gynecologic exams can help detect several cancers—vaginal/vulvar, cervical, uterine and ovarian—along with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other reproductive system disorders,” says Tracy Verrico, D.O., of Bona Dea Gynecology in Oradell. As Dr. Verrico explains, a gynecologic checkup—which includes a physical exam, a Pap smear and sometimes blood work—is important for women at all stages of life:
• For teens and young adults: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women have their first gynecologic visit between ages of 13 and 15 and continue with visits yearly, says Dr. Verrico. Tell your nervous teen she’ll undergo a breast exam at her appointment but won’t necessarily need a pelvic exam or Pap smear until she’s sexually active (unless she’s at risk for certain conditions or is having symptoms such as abnormal bleeding). Still, establishing a relationship with a gynecologist at a young age
Dog: Brandy, 2-year-old beagle/ chihuahua mix
Owner: Jacqueline and John Dikdan, Saddle Brook
Recently retired Jacqueline and John were devastated when their beloved border collie passed away in March 2021, and the couple decided they likely would not own another dog. That was until their new daughter-in-law found Brandy at the same rescue where she adopted her pooch. Originally from Texas, Brandy was available for adoption through a South Jerseybased pet rescue. And it was love at first sight when she met her new “parents.”
is crucial; the doc can chat with her about menstrual periods, contraception, sexually transmitted infections or whatever else is on her mind.
• For women under 40: A gynecologic exam checks several things in women of reproductive age, screening for cancer and testing menstrual health, sexual health and reproductive health. “To make sure a patient’s reproductive system is functioning properly, we check for abnormalities such as cysts or fibroids and assess the health of the ovaries, uterus and cervix,” says Dr. Verrico.
Your gynecologist can also discuss contraception options and help identify any pre-existing health conditions that could affect your pregnancy planning.
• For women 40 and over: Regular checkups can detect potential issues early, when they’re most treatable. Your gyn visit also tests your pelvicfloor health and hormonal changes, as well as cholesterol, bone-density and blood-pressure levels. You should also begin mammograms at age 40, diabetes screening and colonoscopies at 45; earlier for all three if you have a family history or any risk factors. “Postmenopausal women are at increased risk for gynecological cancers, including ovarian, cervical and endometrial cancer,” says our expert.
“She has adapted fine to her new home and is a joy to have around the house,” John says. Brandy is the perfect pup and is enjoying life after a tough start, adds Jacqueline, who notes Brandy had a litter of puppies in Texas when she was only a year old. “She’s a precious sweetheart now,” she says, especially when Brandy’s cuddling on the couch or bed with her owners.
Want to see your furry friend in a future issue of BERGEN? Email a photo and brief details to editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.
If you missed last month’s global celebration of Earth Day, Bergen County is giving you another chance to throw your arms around the world. To commemorate its 75th anniversary, the Bergen County Parks Department is co-hosting the annual EarthFest Overpeck festival Sunday, May 21, at Overpeck Park in Leonia. It’s an event for nature and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, featuring a free fishing derby with Ramsey Outdoor and East Jersey Trout Unlimited, free kayaking and canoeing with Hackensack Riverkeeper, live music with Bash the Trash, The Dinosaur Troubadour and Field Station: Dinosaurs, wildlife presentations by The Wildlife Conservation and Education Center and Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, games, activities and more than 50 green and nonprofit vendors and food trucks. Head to the park from noon to 5 p.m. for the fun. Find out more at hackensackriverkeeper.org.
to believe it’s been 365 days since Jersey officially banned single-use plastic with plastic straws and Styrofoam containers). Time flies, it seems, when shopping with reusables. don’t mind the piles of reusable bags our closets and mudrooms; others recent Fairleigh Dickinson University percent of New Jerseyans voiced support ban as is, while 33 percent said they’d law overturned completely. ban seems to be making a Hook-based Clean Ocean Action Jersey Shore beach cleanup turned discarded store and shopping bags year before.
Italy’s finest
The new Italian eatery 081 Café has filled the void created when Sicilian Sun closed after nearly 50 years in Ho-Ho-Kus. Opened in March, 081 serves traditional apps like caprese and fried calamari and entrées such as truffle pappardelle and wild Atlantic salmon. Feel like a to-go order? A variety of wraps, paninis and pizzas (brick-oven style will be offered soon) are also on the menu.
• 081 CAFÉ, 604 N. MAPLE AVE., HO-HO-KUS, 201.347.9335; 081CAFE.COM
Food for all tastes
In the mood for a burger or a salad or a smoothie—or all three? Head to Rugile’s Kitchen in Haworth, where these quick bites are served in an elevated counter-service atmosphere. The Schraalenburger is the ultimate comfort food, while the Lake Shore Bowl with seared salmon is perfect for those seeking a light but filling meal.
• RUGILE’S KITCHEN, 147 TERRACE ST., HAWORTH; RUGILESKITCHEN.COM
French flair
The owners of French Oak Bar & Grill, now open in Oakland, offer a menu of French–American dishes to diners in northwest Bergen. Try something different like escargot, black garlic carbonara or goat cheese gnocchi or go with classics such as fried calamari, brick oven chicken or pan-seared cod.
• FRENCH OAK BAR & GRILL, 20 ELM ST., OAKLAND, 201.375.6588; FRENCHOAKNJ.COM
We Bergenites are food connoisseurs, but we’re also sippers, as we were reminded by the recent grand opening of 86 & Vine (519 Livingston St., Norwood, 201.272.6767; 86andvine.com). Don’t let the number scare you; you’re entirely welcome to come in and sample its generous selection of craft cocktails, wines and tapas at the bar—and bottles for purchase at its retail store. And if you’re thirsty, here are five more spots to consider:
• Bar 503, 503 Valley Brook Ave., Lyndhurst, 201.635.0008; bar503.com. There are dozens of red and white wines to try by the glass, or chill out with a classic or specialty cocktail or draft beer.
• Bar Boutique, 110 E. Main St., Ramsey, 201.735.7717; barboutiquenj. com. Sip a variety of cocktails, reds and whites before deciding which bottles to purchase from this swanky bar’s retail shop.
• Concourse Club, 379 Rte. 17 S., Wood-Ridge, 201.710.6459; concourseclubnj.com. This rooftop lounge atop The Element hotel offers small plates and an array of wines (by bottle or glass), premium spirits and craft cocktails and beers.
• The Roosevelt, 356 Paterson Ave., East Rutherford; theroosevelt.us. This recently opened hotspot is part restaurant, part speakeasy, with an impressive list of wine and signature cocktails to please every palate.
• The Vinoteca, 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, 201.783.4939; thevinoteca.com. Jerseyans don’t pump their own gas, but they’re happy to sit down and serve themselves at this wine bar. Interactive machines provide pours of your choice from 64 wine varieties and four types of beer.
Making plans for the unofficial start of summer can be distracting, so it’s no surprise that folks may forget the meaning of Memorial Day. But recalling it can lend perspective. For Bergenites unable to attend a ceremony dedicated to those who served in our armed forces, one way to express gratitude is to quietly reflect at a war memorial any day of the year, not just on the last Monday of May. These five memorials are worth a visit:
Cresskill. Within the Knickerbocker Road traffic circle between Cresskill and Dumont is the Camp Merritt Memorial Monument, dedicated to soldiers who passed through the area on their way to Europe during World War I.
Englewood. The city’s war memorial is in the middle of a five-way intersection along West Palisade Avenue. Known locally as the monument, it’s made of stone and bronze and features an eagle with open wings perched atop an obelisk.
Paramus. A short walking path leads to Veterans Memorial Park on East Midland Avenue, where manicured grounds serve as a backdrop to monuments and plaques dedicated to local servicemen and women.
River Vale. Memorial Park sits between town hall and the public library. The centerpiece is the original nameplate from World War II aircraft carrier U.S.S. Enterprise.
Rutherford. A cast stone and bronze monument, located at a five-way intersection near the Rutherford Post Office, is dedicated to 19 local soldiers who fought in World War I.
Along with warmer weather, car show season has come to North Jersey. That means automobiles older than you are—or more souped-up than you’d dare drive—or both. Many shows also offer food, kids’ entertainment and other attractions. Check out, for example, these Bergen events:
• May 6: 12th Annual Park Ridge Recreation Committee Car Show; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Park Ridge Town Pool parking lot. Admission free for spectators.
• May 7: Nam Knights Car & Bike Show; 11 a.m. at the Nam Knights MC Clubhouse in Carlstadt. Admission $5 for spectators.
• May 13: Boys & Girls Club Lodi Summer Kick-off & Car Show; noon to 4 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club of Lodi. Admission free for spectators.
• May 21: Englewood Car Show; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 8 Depot Square in Englewood. Admission $20 for spectators.
…Britni Jaskot of Mahwah on her new gig as the director of volleyball operations at Rutgers University. Jaskot played for Mahwah High from 2012 to 2016 and was once named the school’s “Most Outstanding Player.” She helped its women’s team win its first-ever conference title, then went on to play the sport at Kean University. Jaskot is now a graduate student studying sports management at Fairleigh Dickinson University, where she helped the Knights nab their first Northeast Conference win. …Monique Glover of Hasbrouck Heights, whose cosmetics line, LaMonique Cosmetics, has made its way into the mainstream. The cruelty-free, mineral-based beauty products have been featured in exclusive swag bags given out to celebrities at the Oscars and the Emmys, as well as during runway shows at New York Fashion Week. Glover has also promoted her brand in the New York Post, through the Meta (formerly Facebook) Holiday Gift Guide Program and on TV spots on the BET network. Check out her products for the lips, eyes and face at lamoniquecosmetics.com. P.S.: They’re sensitive-skin-friendly too!
• June 4: Waldwick Community Alliance 15th Annual Car Show; 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Waldwick Railroad Station. Admission free for spectators.
• June 11: 12th Annual PBA Local 399 Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Northern Valley Demarest High School in Demarest. Admission free for spectators.
James Shammas, M.D., 58, is proof that you can do anything you set your knees to. Three years ago, the neurologist planned a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania with his now 25-year-old daughter, Olivia, but the COVID-19 pandemic interfered. Deciding that the trip might never happen, Dr. Shammas underwent a bilateral knee replacement for his severely arthritic knees. A year after the first successful surgery at The Valley Hospital (where he works, besides running his private practice, Neurology Group of Bergen County), the stars aligned—Dr. Shammas and Olivia finally took the trip they’d dreamed of, climbing the highest free-standing mountain in the world.
Have you always been a hiker?
I’m a big hiker. I met my wife, Doreen, about 12 years ago, and we fell in love and traveled the world. Our first big trip was to Peru and the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. A year later, we went to Mount Everest and did a bunch of great hiking and sightseeing there. I also have a fantastic dog named Molly whom I’ve been hiking with for eight to nine years at Harriman Park and Ramapo Valley Conservation.
You needed new knees?
I’d long had bone-on-bone arthritis, and my knees were slowly starting to degenerate. But the rule of thumb is that you don’t replace them until you really have to. My twin brother and father both had their knees replaced too.
What inspired the trip?
Three years ago, on my daughter Olivia’s graduation from the University of Pennsylvania, I planned to take her to climb Mount Kilimanjaro with me as a graduation present. My orthopedic surgeon at Valley, Anthony Delfico, M.D., said I should wear out my old knees before getting both knees replaced. But the trip got cancelled because of COVID. During that time, I decided to get my knees replaced, knowing it takes a good year to recover.
Tell me about the surgery.
I had two knee replacements six weeks apart in September and November of 2021, and the recovery was pretty quick. I went home the next day both times, then Valley sent a physical therapist and a nurse to my house to help
afterward. Within two months of each surgery, I was back to hiking six to seven miles at Harriman State Park.
Then came 19,341-foot Mount Kilimanjaro.
How did the trip finally come together?
I thought we would never do it. By this point, Olivia was living and working in the city as a neonatal ICU nurse, and I didn’t think she’d get the time off. But she did, and I was feeling pretty good after surgery, so I put the deposit down, I got Dr. Delfico’s blessing and we went for it.
Has your daughter inherited your adventurous nature?
This was our second big trip together. When she was in college and studying in Australia, she asked me to meet her in New Zealand, and I jumped at the chance. We stayed in five different places, drove about 1,000 miles, did a 20,000-foot sky dive in New Zealand and bungee-jumped off a famous bridge in Queenstown. We have a lot of experience being adventurous together.
What was your best memory from this trip?
Hitting that peak. We also did a five-day safari. [Kilimanjaro] was a nine-day hike, and there were 10 of us [on the tour] in two-man tents; I joke that the hardest part was sharing a tent with my 24-year-old daughter for that long [laughs].
What was it like hitting the summit?
We all got a bit choked up.
What’s next on your climbing bucket list?
You know, Kilimanjaro is not technical—it’s hard and you must be in shape, but there are no glaciers or snow. I’m thinking of taking a course with a mountaineering company in Bolivia or Ecuador to learn ice crossing, ropes, ladders and all that stuff. Maybe if I do well, I’ll start doing some alpine climbing. I Googled and found a 61-year-old guy from Utah who’s supposedly the only man who’s ever climbed Mount Everest on two knee replacements. Maybe the doctor from New Jersey can be the second? I’m 58. I don’t know how much longer I can climb mountains. So yeah, I’d like to go to the Everest region and climb some 8,000-meter peaks, but who knows?
What was more difficult—four years of med school or climbing Kilimanjaro?
Oh, that’s a good question. Four years of med school is pretty hard, but Kilimanjaro was difficult in a different way.
—Haley Longman
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Seasoning food with cinnamon has been shown to activate thermogenesis, the heat generated through metabolism. Increasing heat translates to greater calorie burn throughout the day.
—Metabolism
Studies show that drinking more than one 12-ounce regularly sweetened drink daily increases your risk of having higher LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, possibly raising the odds of developing cardiovascular disease.
—The Journal of Nutrition
Smartphone overuse could lead to not getting enough sleep and has been linked to spikes in anxiety, stress and depression. Experts recommend taking breaks from all that scrolling.
—Frontiers in Psychology
20.8
The percent of adults in the U.S. who experienced a mental illness between 2019-2020.
—Mental Health America
26
The percentage increase in the number of Americans who died from alcohol-related illnesses during the first year of the pandemic. The rise was mostly due to alcoholic liver disease.
—National Center for Health Statistics
Breast cancer patients who were active during their treatment were less likely than sedentary patients to experience the cognitive effects of chemotherapy.
—Journal of Clinical Oncology
If you purchased well originally, then absolutely! Furniture with good bones should last for many years, sometimes for multiple generations. Regardless if a room’s color palette or décor changes, classic pieces are timeless.
When it’s time for a refresh, instead of adding to the landfill, upcycling is a creative, sustainable solution. Give your treasured old pieces new life by transforming them. Reupholster your favorite sofa with a bold new fabric or refinish a desk with paint and glaze. It’s an opportunity to make your antique pieces feel fresh and youthful.
DIANE DUROCHER, ASID, IIDA, CAPS, C.I.D.
Diane Durocher Interiors, INC.
375 S. Central Ave., Ramsey, NJ 07446
201.825.3832 | www.dianedurocherinteriors.com
DianeDurocherInteriors.com
201.825.3832
Diane Durocher is an award-winning designer whose career spans more than 25 years. She believes that the foundation of successful design is built on trust and confidence. Connecting on a deeply personal level enables her to design inspired spaces that reflect her client’s unique personalities and lifestyles. With a keen eye for color, outstanding space planning skills, and the ability to design customized pieces, Diane brings her client’s vision to life. She rises to the challenge of transforming a blank slate into a stunning reality. Her ultimate goal is to exceed her clients’ expectations.
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ASK ABOUT OUR DESIGN SERVICES
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That bodily problem you’d rather not talk about—is it trying to tell you something?
Maybe you’ve stayed up late Googling a symptom you were too embarrassed to ask your doctor about. Be not ashamed— you’ve got company. None of our bodies are flawless, forever unsullied by any unwelcome or excessive leaks, fluids, blockages, growths, sounds or smells.
The physical phenomenon you’re secretly obsessing over may be no big deal at all. But if it’s really worrying you, be on the safe side by checking it out with your primary care physician. Don’t worry—doubtless she or he has seen it before. And sometimes, says Alyssa Foster, M.D., an internist at Comprehensive Medical Care in Englewood Cliffs who’s affiliated with Englewood Health, one of these “embarrassing” conditions is “your body telling you that something is not right, or something has changed.”
So don’t suffer alone and in silence if you’re plagued by one of the six generally hushed-up woes below. Says Dr. Foster: “In most cases, your doctor can provide valuable advice or medication (if needed) that will help provide relief.”
• Urinary incontinence. Dr. Foster notes that there are four types of incontinence (loss of bladder control), each with its characteristic symptoms: stress, overactive/urge, functional and overflow. If your condition is caused by stress, for example, you may experience leakage of urine when coughing, sneezing, laughing or lifting something heavy, whereas overactive/urge incontinence is characterized by an urgent or frequent need to pee. “Some, but not all, possible causes include urinary tract infections, constipation, irritation of any sort, overactive pelvic floor muscles and pelvic floor muscles that have weakened,” the physician says.
Tests your doctor may order: To identify the type of incontinence you’re experiencing, which will better guide treatment, your internist may perform a urinanalysis, a rectal exam or a pelvic exam, says Dr. Foster.
Next steps: If symptoms persist after an initial primary care visit, or if they’re affecting your everyday life, you may be referred to a urologist who specializes in urinary incontinence.
• Halitosis (“bad breath”). All of us have bacteria that live in our mouths and elsewhere, but some bacteria produce sulphur, which causes bad breath, says Dr. Foster. It can be triggered by smoking, acidic foods or poor oral hygiene, or can indicate an underlying issue such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a respiratory infection or a liver or kidney disorder. Its frequent companion: a dry mouth or tongue.
Tests your doctor may order: “There is no specific test needed to determine the presence of halitosis,” says Dr. Foster. She adds that a doc may suggest lifestyle changes such as brushing your teeth after eating, flossing and drinking more water.
Next steps: If symptoms persist after making those lifestyle changes or if you notice severe dry mouth or a coating on your tongue, consider booking an appointment with a dentist or periodontist for further evaluation.
• Excessive sweating. If you’re perspiring more often or more heavily than usual, it
could be caused by your hormones, your exercise routine or your diet. Less commonly, excessive sweating can be indicative of an underlying health issue such as “overactive thyroid, diabetes, anxiety or, for women, menopause,” says our expert. Symptoms to look out for include visible sweat, frequent skin infections in areas where you sweat and sweat-prone areas of skin staying wet for extended periods of time.
Tests your doctor may order: There’s no specific test for this condition, but, if appropriate, your doc may run blood work that can help diagnose thyroid issues, hormonal imbalances or diabetes.
Next steps: If you’re diagnosed with one of the conditions above, your doctor can begin to treat you for it—and your sweats may turn out to have been a sign that helped you prevent more troubling symptoms down the road.
• Constipation. Drinking enough water and eating high-fiber foods can help move things along, but constipation—marked usually by having fewer than three bowel movements per week, straining when having bowel movements or producing lumpy/hard stools—can be brought on by more than just what you eat (or don’t eat). Dr. Foster says causes include “anxiety, an intestinal blockage, ‘lazy bowel syndrome’ or an abdominal pathology that pushes on the colon.” In fewer cases, it can be an indication of colon cancer.
Tests your doctor may order: Testing for constipation can run the gamut from blood work to detect underactive thyroid or calcium levels, a stool sample analysis or a rectal exam, the physician says.
Next steps: If you experience bleeding with bowel movements, rectum protruding from the anus (prolapse), hemorrhoids, pain with bowel movements or severe abdominal pain, make an appointment with a gastroenterologist, Dr. Foster advises.
• Body odor. The notorious BO isn’t just the smell of sweat; it’s sweat combined with bacteria on our skin. Various factors can influence the aroma you emit, including hormones, exercise routine, diet and infections. Dr. Foster says that people with body odor are often “noseblind” to their own scents. Immediate remedies, of course, include taking a shower with thorough scrubbing, using a deodorant and putting on for-sure fresh clothes.
Tests your doctor may order: Treatments vary vastly based on the cause of body odor, but expect to undergo blood or urine tests. “Your doctor may also suggest lifestyle changes such as removing overly fragrant foods from your diet, wearing loose linen clothing and finding ways to reduce your stress levels,” says our doctor.
Next steps: Your primary care practitioner may refer you to a gastroenterologist, dermatologist or endocrinologist for further evaluation.
• Belching/flatulence. These are normal and quite routine—they happen to all of us. “Burping is caused by swallowed air that never reaches the stomach and instead accumulates in the esophagus,” notes Dr. Foster. Chronic burpers tend to have habits such as eating or drinking too quickly, talking while eating, chewing gum or drinking soda. Breaking wind is the release of intestinal gas, which forms during the process of digesting food, and can be exacerbated if you swallow more air than usual or eat foods that are harder to digest.
Tests your doctor may order: “In a physical examination, the doctor can check for swelling and tenderness in your abdomen and stomach,” says Dr. Foster. “He or she may also perform a blood test, stool test or imaging tests of your digestive system.”
Next steps: Further medical attention may be warranted if you’re experiencing “persistent abdominal pain, bloating, recurring bouts of diarrhea or constipation, unexplained weight loss, bowel incontinence, blood in your stool or signs of infection,” says our physician. Either a gastroenterologist or a nutritionist—or perhaps both—may be helpful if the problem persists.
Sarah Galdieri of Edgewater has always dabbled in and thoroughly enjoyed event planning—she happily handled all the minutiae of her 2021 bridal shower and nuptials, a task some brides find tedious. But when it came time to plan a baby shower for her and her husband Michael’s first child, she knew she wanted it to be a family affair. She had, you see, a gifted family.
For the blue-and-white-themed party for her baby boy, held in May 2022 at Alpine Country Club (her bridal shower was at the same venue), an integral part of the décor was the floral arrangements. Galdieri’s father, Toshio Okimatsu, has been a sensei (teacher) of Ikebana Japanese flower arranging for 30 years, so naturally he was put in charge of the centerpieces and the flowers that topped the cake from A Little Cake in Park Ridge. “For almost a month, my dad and I experimented with different dyes and flowers to get them to be the perfect shade of blue and to see what worked well,” Galdieri tells BERGEN. In addition to other seasonal blooms such as baby’s breath, eucalyptus and roses, they chose a white carnation that sat in dye for about two days prior to the party to get the blue hue just right.
Meanwhile, Galdieri’s brother, Adam, a professional photographer based in
Among the take-home favors were growNOTES, bits of plantable seed paper that sprout into flowers. The two-tier cake from A Little Cake was the highlight of the dessert table, which also included personalized, heart-shaped cookies from Etsy. The Eos lip balms are the cutest mini baby bumps!
Carlstadt, took the photos at the event, and their mother, Dreyna, helped with the invitations, party favors and décor. “I wanted this party to be a family unit,” says Galdieri of her Woodcliff Lake-based crew. “We’re all very close, so I wanted to use everyone’s strengths and talents.”
Galdieri was inspired by cute baby items she had seen on Etsy, and she says that ordering and assembling the decorations and favors was a mother/daughter bonding experience. Her mother and mother-in-law had a lot of surprises in store for the mama-to-be; the 50+ guests played breakthe-ice games such as “Who is wearing a floral dress?” looked around the room for hidden pacifiers and placed their bets on the baby’s arrival date via a printed-out calendar. After enjoying a brunch that featured bagels, lox and an omelette station, each guest went home with party favors, including an Eos lip balm, blue-and-white swirl lollipops, personalized cookies and baby blue cigars, all purchased online. “We also put personalized ‘Baby Galdieri’ stickers on our favorite bottle of wine, and everyone seemed to like that because it was different,” says the new mom. “Giving out a bottle of wine is never a bad idea.”
And though dad-to-be Michael wasn’t on the official invite list for the girls-only soirée, his wife says he essentially emceed the party. “My mom bought him a ‘Dad’ hat, he helped with opening gifts and was walking around wearing the baby carrier,” she says with a laugh. “He just floated around to see his friends and family.”
Baby Colton turns 1 year old in July—and you can bet that this new mama is already planning his Bachelor-themed first birthday party.
At age 1, it’s all about possibilities. When you’re part of a Korean family like toddler Aiden Park’s, the highlight of a party that celebrates dol, or a baby’s first birthday, is a lighthearted, forward-facing activity called the doljabi.
“It’s a traditional event in which we present objects such as a computer mouse,” says Aiden’s mother, Mia Hwang. Each object represents a potential future—especially a wished-for successful or lucrative career. The objects are placed in front of the child, who makes selections among them. “From his picking, we expect a related job in the future,” Mia says with a twinkle. “For example, if he picked a camera, he might be a photographer; if he chose a mouse, he might be a software programmer.”
What the child would choose became a festive guessing game for 50 to 60 guests, who helped Mia and her husband, Kyle Park, celebrate a full year of Aiden, who was born in summer 2021, during the year of the cow.
Thoughts of animals and a balmy season allowed Mia to consider a diversity of possibilities for party décor. “We decided on a safari theme,” she says. “I wanted to decorate in a way that suggested ‘natural and wild.’”
She’s accustomed to creating natural vibes, more with flora than fauna: She’s a floral designer and event coordinator at The Flower in Ridgefield. She
Aiden Park celebrates his first birthday in a party alive with natural and animal imagery. His mother, floral designer Mia Hwang, tapped her talent and experience as an event coordinator to plan the party herself and reconnect with friends that she and her husband, Kyle Park, have spent less time with since the birth of Aiden, their first child.
In a safari-themed first birthday party, a floral designer and her family celebrate a budding life and a milestone year.
decided to plan her own event rather than hire another professional, both to contain costs and to perfectly execute her own vision. “I could use my experience to make my own party bigger and more splendid,” she says.
Lefkes Estiatorio in Englewood Cliffs seemed the ideal venue. Not only did it have a catering program known for quality, but it also could provide an indoor/outdoor space already festooned with foliage and flowers that Mia could build upon. Walls opened to outside air, allowing the party to be sheltered while feeling authentically natural.
Arriving guests walked into a jungle of colors, with lots of green punctuated by summery dark pinks and yellows. Table centerpieces featured profuse floral arrangements that Mia designed and elevated on slender, golden posts to create an overhead amplification of the wild, life-allaround atmosphere. Animal images and figures popped up almost everywhere, including on a display table where Aiden’s name was spelled out in cookies that, along with a cream-cheese cake, were provided by a baker friend at Hana Cakes in River Edge.
Mia and Kyle wore olive outfits with safari hats hanging over their backs—“like we were guides,” she says—while Aiden wore a shirt teeming with plant and animal images. The garb was purchased on Shein, an Amazon-like Chinese shopping site.
Mia curated 12 photos of Aiden for display— one for each month of his life. “I wanted to show people how he grew up over the year,” she says.
Above: In a traditional Korean first-birthday activity, Aiden chooses from among a group of objects representing possible future careers. Does his choice of a microphone mean he’ll be part of the next big boy band? Bottom left: Animal masks gave guests—many of them children—a playful opportunity to express their inner critters.
Many guests were encountering Aiden for the first time. “After having the baby, I couldn’t meet with a lot of people,” she says. “I had a great time that day just hanging out with friends.”
In that sense, the event signified a step on an epic journey—not just for Aiden. “It’s a big milestone for parents as well,” Mia says. “It’s my first time as a mom, and I also wanted to celebrate that I was good with him for a year— it’s kind of an accomplishment for me!”
With all the bustle and an early rising that day, Aiden crashed halfway through the party—but woke from his nap in time for the doljabi. Guests had dropped ballots into small wooden boxes, guessing what Aiden would pick, with prizes set aside for those who nailed his choices.
Placed on a mat, Aiden reached forward—and picked up a microphone. “That means he could be a famous singer,” Mia says with a laugh. “We expect he could become like BTS in the future!” A second choice was a soccer ball—“so maybe he’ll be a famous player like [Lionel] Messi,” Mia muses.
Actually, the possibilities are endless.
Clockwise from above: Boxes collected ballots guessing which objects Aiden might choose; floral arrangements elevated on slender posts gave dinner guests a junglelike sense that life is all around them, including overhead; gifts for guests included towels folded into cow shapes—a nod to Aiden’s birth in the year of the cow—that Mia bought in Korea.
They lived most of their lives minutes from each other, attended local schools, both became teachers and shared friends—but never met until a matchmaker brought them together in 2018.
TJ Hunt was gathering thoughts in his Oakland classroom after a trying day of handling eighth graders when a longtime teacher’s aide came into the room to ask a simple but ultimately life-changing question: Was he single? The aide’s daughter had a best friend named Amanda Hazen, then a Randolph fourth-grade teacher, also single, who seemed like a good match.
Nobody then realized how right that instinct was. When TJ and Amanda Hunt married in October 2022 on a perfect day full of joy, beauty and the bonds of community, it was as clear as the sunny skies that the two were suited for each other.
“I knew right away,” Amanda says of their first date at Steel Wheel Tavern in Ridgewood, where they met after friending on Instagram and hitting it off in direct messages. “We had a lot in common; he was super caring and committed to everything he does, and I felt very seen by him.”
The setting for TJ and Amanda Hunt’s wedding—the five-acre family home of Amanda’s brother and his wife—“felt more like a field in Montana than a backyard,” says Nicole Serse of Well-Dressed Events, who
up
When your wedding is suitably classic, you remember. When it features a dancing 97-year-old, everyone remembers.
The mutual fondness they developed soon extended to each other’s families. “When I told people I was dating Amanda, they’d say, ‘Oh, she’s so great,’ but also, ‘Her family is so great,’” TJ says. “I really lucked out marrying into this group.”
Extended bonds permeated the planning of the big day. Amanda’s family owns Prestige Party Rental—a Prospect Park company that provides event items including tenting, cooking equipment, lighting, seating and dinnerware— and had a good handle on local vendors.
Amanda’s brother Jake and his wife, Kim, offered their Mahwah home as a venue. Their 5 acres with expansive views of surrounding hills provided a gorgeous setting for the public ceremony and boisterous reception for 250 guests. (An earlier family ceremony took place at St. Elizabeth Church in Wyckoff.)
From experience at other weddings, Amanda resolved to work with a planner. “I wanted to make sure everything went smoothly so that I— and my family—didn’t have to worry and could just enjoy the night,” she says.
“We love tented events where you start from scratch and see a vision come to life,” says Nicole Serse, co-owner (with Kristen Ligas) of WellDressed Events in Paramus, who coordinated. The outdoor structure’s majestic scale—big enough to enclose seating, serving stations, photo areas and a dance floor under a hard, clear ceiling—made it one of Well-Dressed’s largest tent events ever.
Weather had looked iffy, but on the big day itself it felt as if God were smiling. “Not a cloud in the sky, no wind, 65 degrees—it was the most perfect day,” TJ says.
The couple embraced traditional formality but sought simplicity that felt comfortable and joyous. “I was just looking for every person to be on the dance floor and celebrating not just our love but family and friends,” Amanda says.
TJ and his retinue sported black tuxes, while Amanda wore a dress that she found with her mother at Castle Couture in Manalapan. Bridesmaids donned neutral dove gray in the style of their choice. “We didn’t want anything that would jump out as trendy now but dated looking back,” TJ says. “We wanted to keep it classic.”
While the bridal party prepped on-site, TJ and his entourage readied 10 minutes away and rode to the wedding in a trolley he booked from The Good Life Transportation Company in Hawthorne.
Guests basked in sunshine during a cocktail hour that featured a seafood presentation, a mac-and-cheese bar, a charcuterie grazing table, an Asian cuisine station and several passed items including fried calamari—“my one request,” TJ says. On top of signature cocktails, drinks included custom espresso martinis.
Franklin Lakes-based Market Basket, which catered the entire event under the direction of Nancy Waanders, “did a fantastic job,” Serse says. “They had a ton of options—all of them crowd pleasers.” Selections for the buffet-style
Clockwise from top right: The groom’s party prepped at a nearby home and rode to the wedding in a trolley provided by The Good Life Transportation Company; TJ’s twin nephews and godsons carried signs that Amanda created; cocktail hour offerings included crowd-pleasing items such as fried calamari, French dip sandwiches, stuffed figs, ahi tuna tacos, asiago chicken skewers, truffle fries and flatbread pizza strips.
Above and left: Floral arrangements by Twisted Willow and ample candlelight atop rustic farm-table settings gave the expansive tent an organic feel that became increasingly romantic as natural light faded in the evening. Below: The vanilla wedding cake from Market Basket, which catered the entire event, exemplified the couple’s aesthetic of traditional elegance combined with comfortable simplicity.
Clockwise from above: In addition to the wedding cake, dessert items included homemade ice cream sandwiches along with a fruit tray; after Amanda and TJ danced with each other and their parents, the floor seemed to explode with revelers, just as the couple had hoped; among the dancers was Amanda’s 97-year-old grandmother, cheered on by the bride and surrounding guests.
meal under the awning included a carving station, chicken Francese, mushroom ravioli and seared scallops. Napkins were individually tied with sprigs of rosemary.
Floral arrangements of white, blushes and sandy tones from Twisted Willow Flowers in Princeton adorned rafters and farm tables draped with textured linen and surrounded by cross-backed, rustic chairs, all illuminated by ample candles and dusky atmospheric lighting. “The entire space had a beautifully luxurious but undone organic feel,” Serse says—“fun and simple but very romantic.”
When the dance floor opened after the couple kicked off that part of the evening with each other and parents, “almost nobody was in their seat,” TJ says. “Everybody was dancing and having a good time. Everything the DJ from Magic Moments in Paramus did was outstanding. He really made the night.”
Friends commented on what fun it was to have a big celebration close to home—a sentiment echoed by parents Tom and Anita Hazen and Mickey and Delores Hunt. “It means a lot when parents say it was a perfect day,” TJ says.
Even Amanda’s 97-year-old grandmother, Grace, hit the dance floor, encircled by rooters. “Her go-to song is ‘Shout,’ and we made sure she got out there,” Amanda says, her voice catching. “She’s our only living grandparent, and it was so special for her to be there and share the day with us.”
“Those touching memories are why we do what we do,” Serse says of her and her partner. “Kristen and I are often in a corner crying.”
Memories will be made when a few thoughtful details take an outdoor patio party from good to great.
When the time is right and the weather propitious, you won’t have second thoughts about bringing your get-togethers outside. Whether it’s a graduation brunch, a Father’s Day barbecue or a latesummer twilight supper, festivities celebrated in the fresh air can be unforgettably enjoyable in a distinctive way. If a leaf happens to blow into the soup, that’s an extra laugh—and who can have too many of those? For the keen of eye, the next few pages abound in patio-party inspiration—along with a few practical ideas for a perfect setting for you and your guests.
A slatted screen around the outdoor kitchen not only creates intimacy and privacy, but also provides shade from the midday sun and protection from the elements when the weather is less appealing.
This page: Any outdoor dining area can feel homey with a few simple touches. Wall décor brings the inside out, while an informal setting with cocktail glasses and a floral centerpiece dresses up even the most relaxed tables. An outdoor kitchen area helps the host avoid the mess that comes from prepping and carrying food—whether it’s a warm basket of bread, seafood apps or a main course—from inside the house. Opposite page: Napkin rings and chargers are an easy way to elevate the vibe of any casual alfresco meal.
Imagine suffering or witnessing a critical medical emergency—a heart attack, say, or an overdose—then dialing 911 and waiting 45 minutes for an ambulance. That was happening all too often in Bergen County during the past decade, finally prompting the county executive’s office, this year, to invest in a squad of four used ambulances to try to shorten response times. At the root of the problem is a shortage of EMTs, the emergency medical technicians who staff most ambulances. And that shortage means fewer ambulances and longer wait times for emergency medical assistance and transportation to hospital emergency departments.
There was a time, not too long ago, when virtually every Bergen municipality had its own volunteer ambulance service, but they’re less prevalent today. Like so many other problems, that attrition was aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Emergency medical services stepped up to the demand of COVID, but when it was done, we literally just went right back to what we were doing—there was never any decompression, and as a result, the industry had a hard time bouncing back,” says James Fox, director of emergency medical services at Teaneck’s Holy Name Medical
“There’s been difficulty finding both volunteers and paid EMTs for all emergency medical service agencies since COVID.”
—Milton Kohlmann, chief, Paramus Emergency Medical Services
Center. COVID burnout dramatically thinned the ranks of EMTs, not just in the county but across the country.
But the problem was evident even before COVID. At least three Bergen towns disbanded their ambulance services—Bogota in 2016, Maywood in 2018 and Elmwood Park in 2019— and others merged their ambulance squads with those in neighboring towns. A decline in volunteers was imperiling local ambulance squads, as well as volunteer fire departments and a whole range of nonprofit organizations.
Explanations range from increasing demands at work to a lack of civics education in our schools. Yet “in general,” says Milton Kohlmann, chief of Paramus Emergency Medical Services, “there’s been difficulty finding both volunteers and paid EMTs for all emergency medical service agencies since COVID.”
The county hopes its new squad will help. Its ambulances are staffed by 26 paid EMTs, four of them full time, the others hired on a per-diem basis. The county squad began responding to calls this Feb. 9, and there are plans to expand the service. “We are going to utilize some American Rescue Act funds,” says County Executive Jim Tedesco, referring to the federal law providing financial assistance to address the pandemic’s impact, “to purchase four more ambulances and the equipment to outfit them, and to start to prepare for a more global response from Bergen County to provide emergency medical services.”
That should help ease the ambulance shortage, but it won’t, by itself, solve the problem—at the heart of which, not surprisingly, is money. EMTs in New Jersey earn an annual salary between $36,000 and $45,000, while the average salary for all jobs in the state is nearly $58,000. To help bridge that gap, Governor Phil Murphy signed a law last year that would increase funding to local ambulance squads. And to potentially expand the number of volunteer EMTs, legislation was introduced in Trenton in 2020 that would grant those volunteers a $5,000 property-tax credit. Although the original bill was never passed, the legislation was reintroduced in 2022 and is still pending.
Meanwhile, the hospitals and the public and private emergency medical services that provide the county’s ambulances struggle to keep what is one of our most vital public services running in a timely and efficient manner. To sustain that effort going forward, they’re clearly going to need additional help. Says Holy Name’s Fox: “It’s just been a very arduous task keeping the service running, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
What happens when you call 911 in a medical emergency? It’s something most of us take for granted: If we need medical assistance, fast, a simple call to 911 should send an ambulance rushing to our aid. But surprisingly few of us have a complete understanding of how that lifesaving system actually works.
• Making the call. The 911 service should only be used in a genuine emergency—an especially important consideration when ambulances and EMTs are in short supply.
According to Milton Kohlmann, chief of emergency medical services in Paramus, “People should generally call 911 for an ambulance for serious injuries and medical emergencies. Examples would include, but not be limited to, an injury from a fall or a motor vehicle accident, chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, cardiac arrest, allergic reactions, altered mental status, burns, diabetic emergencies, overdoses and seizures.”
If you suspect that your condition, or someone else’s, might be serious, though, it’s better to call 911 first than waste time weighing your options. “It’s always safer, because what you may think is nothing could be something very critical,” says James Fox, EMS director at Teaneck’s Holy Name Medical Center. “Our ability to assess in an emergency is very valuable.” You could drive yourself to the hospital (or have someone drive you), but that’s likely to delay care. Ambulances carry basic lifesaving equipment such as defibrillators, oxygen, tourniquets, epinephrine (for anaphylaxis) and Narcan (for opiate overdoses) and are staffed by professionals, so that medical treatment can begin as soon as the ambulance arrives on the scene.
• Responding to the call. In Bergen County, a call to 911 will put you in communication with either your local police department or the Bergen County Public Safety Operations Center, a 911 call center that contracts with 21 of the county’s municipalities and serves as a backup to other municipalities when a police dispatcher can’t take the call. In either case, a trained dispatcher will ask you a series of questions to determine whether you need an ambulance.
• Dispatching the ambulance. Any municipality with an ambulance squad will dispatch one of its own ambulances first, unless none are available. If, in addition to its own squad, the town has a contract with a private ambulance company, it will likely turn to that private service when its
own ambulances are out on calls. If a private ambulance isn’t available, the dispatcher will contact a central communications center—for instance, Bergen County’s MICCOM (mobile intensive care communications), a consortium of private, volunteer and hospital ambulance squads, including the new county squad.
In addition to the basic life support (BLS) equipment that all ambulances carry, most hospital squads include ambulances that can provide advanced life support (ALS). (An ambulance equipped for ALS is also known as a mobile intensive care unit, a MICU.) These higher-level ambulances are manned by paramedics who’ve gone through a more stringent training program than EMTs, and, says Fox, they carry “everything short of surgical in terms of critical care.”
• Billing for services. Many patients are surprised to receive a bill for ambulance services. Whether or not you’re billed depends on which squad sent its ambulance to you and what services you received en route to the hospital. Also, “it literally varies from town to town,” says Fox. You’re not likely to be billed, for instance, if you were transported in a town’s own ambulance manned by an all-volunteer squad, but you’ll probably receive a bill if you were taken to the hospital by a private ambulance service. If the ambulance you were in originated from a hospital, you may or may not be billed depending on whether your town has an agreement with the hospital. If it does, you’ll either be billed nothing or charged a portion of the fee, depending on the nature of the agreement. If the dispatcher deemed the emergency sufficiently serious to require paramedics instead of EMTs, you’ll almost certainly receive a bill for the paramedics’ services. You may also be billed if you’re treated by EMTs but not transported to a hospital.
Potential cost is secondary, of course, when it’s a matter of saving a life, and that worry shouldn’t deter quick action. But it is a fact that the billing system is mind-bogglingly convoluted. Help may be in the offing. In 2022, Congress passed the so-called No Surprises Act, which protects patients from receiving surprise medical bills. One surprise that wasn’t covered by the initial act was a bill for ground ambulance transport (as opposed to air transport). Last year, though, the federal government established an advisory committee “for the purpose of reviewing options to improve the disclosure of charges and fees for ground ambulance services, better inform consumers of insurance options for such services, and protect consumers from balance billing.” Like the ambulances we depend on to get us care, stat, those improvements can’t come too soon.
We’re blessed when it comes to gardens in our part of the Garden State. Glen Rock’s Thielke Arboretum and Davis Johnson Park in Tenafly are among Jersey’s great outdoor spaces, and even your own backyard may offer a bountiful display of sprigs and blooms. Other places to take in botanical beauty? They’re nearby too; for instance, there’s:
Drive time from Bergen: 20 minutes.
A former private estate, this public garden is an oasis in the middle of busy Montclair. The 5.8-acre site, operated by nonprofit Montclair Foundation, showcases azaleas, rhododendrons and other hybrids, many of them named after Van Vleck family members. One of the most visited spots in the garden is a Chinese wisteria, dating back to 1939, that is climbing one of the pillars of the picturesque
Van Vleck House.
Things to do: To see more beauty (manmade and natural), the Montclair Art Museum and Kip’s Castle are a short walk from the garden. The 15-acre Edgemont Memorial Park is a picturesque site maintained by the township’s parks department. Also minutes away is downtown Montclair, home to a wide variety of retailers, coffee shops, casual eateries and fancy restaurants.
Information: montclairfoundation.org
Drive time from Bergen: 30 minutes.
This 96-acre garden within the majestic Ramapo Mountains is part of Ringwood State Park. The property is divided into a dozen featured gardens, including Crab Apple Allée (weather permitting, it’ll be in full bloom in late April to early May) and Magnolia Walk. Easy strolls in any direction will lead to a variety of annuals, wildflowers, ponds, fountains and other landscape features. Tours of the historic Skylands Manor House, often used as a wedding venue, are offered on select days.
Things to do: There are several hiking trails in hundreds of acres that surround the garden. For an easy hike with a memorable vista and landmarks, follow the short trail to Warm Puppy Rock. Shepherd Lake Boathouse is nearby and offers canoe and kayak rentals, while the Thunder Mountain Trap and Skeet center is open for those wanting a little target practice.
Information: njbg.org
horticultural preserves can be a treat for the senses and a lift for the spirits. Here are five that aren’t far.
Drive time from Bergen: 30 minutes.
This 250-acre New York City institution is the largest garden in any U.S. city, with over 1 million plants. Most visit during two of NYBG’s largest events, April’s Orchid Show and the winter train show, but there’s much more to see year-round, including the Victorianstyle glass house that serves 11 distinct plant habitats.
Things to do: NYBG isn’t the only place to see pretty plants. Also worth seeing are Wave Hill, a 28-acre botanical garden also in The Bronx, and the 52-acre Brooklyn Botanic Garden, located at Prospect Park. If you don’t want to eat in the NYBG, some of the best Italian eateries as well as the Arthur Avenue market are minutes away in the Belmont section of The Bronx.
Information: nybg.org
Drive time from Bergen: 1 hour.
Enjoy peace and tranquility at this 93-acre park in southwest Connecticut. Hundreds of tree and plant species fill 13 gardens, such as the Sensory Garden, where visitors can smell, hear and taste (go ahead and sample the ripe snap peas, cherry tomatoes and herbs) and the Alice Smith Fern Allée, home to more than 60 varieties of ferns. The 9/11 Memorial Archway is a solemn location for reflection and meditation.
Things to do: Museums and nature are at the forefront of Stamford tourism, with the Stamford Museum and Cove Island Park along the Long Island Sound two of the most visited locations in the city. The Harbor Point community is a destination for retail and dining, with several Connecticut-style pizzerias, steakhouses and seafood restaurants to whet your appetite.
Information: bartlettarboretum.org
Drive time from Bergen: 2 hours, 15 minutes. Widely considered one of the world’s great gardens, this 1,077-acre site is home to more than 9,000 species and varieties of plants. Two dozen gardens, packed with lush vegetation, are easy to walk and family-friendly. Pro tip: Clear your phone’s memory so you have plenty of space to take photos at the Flower Garden Walk & Compartment Gardens and the Green Wall. Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait until next year if you’re hoping to visit the Cascade Garden—this section is closed for 2023.
Things to do: Just outside of the garden in the town’s historic district are some of Brandywine Valley’s top restaurants, coffee shops, jewelers, clothiers and other stores. More shopping and dining is a 20-minute drive across the border in Wilmington, Delaware.
Information: longwoodgardens.org
Lighten up your favorite Italian dishes by adding your favorite shellfish. These vitamin-packed, protein-rich recipes work well for a weeknight meal and are impressive enough to serve company.
Yields 4 servings
INGREDIENTS:
n ½ lb. linguine
n ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
n 4 garlic cloves, smashed
n ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
n 2 dozen littleneck clams
n ½ cup dry white wine
n 1 cup clam juice or chicken broth
n 3 Tbs. fresh parsley, chopped
DIRECTIONS:
Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil; add pasta and cook, stirring often, until al dente. Drain in a colander.
Meanwhile, heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic and crushed red pepper and stir until fragrant and golden, 1 to 2 minutes. Add littleneck clams, wine and juice. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until clams open, 6 to 8 minutes. (Remove each clam with tongs as it opens and discard those that do not open.)
Transfer open clams to each of four shallow bowls. Add linguine to clam cooking liquid and toss well. Transfer pasta to each bowl on top of clams. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley right before serving.
This delicious recipe is a great way to incorporate more omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. To boost the nutritional content further, try mixing in your favorite vegetables and incorporating a fiberrich linguine (such as one made from whole grains, beans, or even edamame) for a more filling, blood-sugarfriendly dish.”
—Erin Palinski-Wade, registered dietitian, Vernon Nutrition Center, Montvale
Yields 4 servings
INGREDIENTS:
n kosher salt
n 12 oz. fettuccine
n olive oil, for tossing
n ¾ lb. large shrimp (about 16), peeled and deveined, tails removed
n freshly ground
black pepper
n 1 stick (8 Tbs.)
unsalted butter
n 2 cups heavy cream
n 2 pinches nutmeg, freshly grated
n 1½ cups ParmigianoReggiano cheese, freshly grated
DIRECTIONS:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt generously. Add the pasta and boil according to package directions until al dente, tender but still slightly firm. Strain and toss with a splash of oil.
Meanwhile, arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a large pie pan or paper plate, and pat them with a paper towel until completely dry. Season with salt and pepper.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of the butter. When the butter melts, raise the heat to medium-high and invert the plate of shrimp over the skillet so the shrimp fall into the pan all at once. Cook the shrimp without moving them until the undersides are pink, 1 to 2 minutes. Flip the shrimp and cook until fully pink and cooked through, about 2 minutes more. Transfer the shrimp to a bowl.
Reduce the heat to medium, and add the remaining six tablespoons butter. Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. When the butter has mostly melted, whisk in the cream and nutmeg and bring to a simmer, then cook for 2 minutes. Lower the heat to keep the sauce warm.
Whisk the Parmigiano-Reggiano into the sauce. Add the shrimp and cooked pasta, and toss well. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot in heated bowls.
Substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative such as Greek yogurt to create a similar texture that can work well in an Alfredo sauce. Nondairy milk such as almond or oat milk mixed with cornstarch or flour to thicken the sauce is also a good option for those who are lactose intolerant.”
—Diana Lee, registered dietitian, Feel Well and Good, Tenafly
DEVON FINE JEWELRY HAS PROUDLY SERVED Wyckoff and northern New Jersey for over 40 years. We are your local, full-service jewelry store, providing expert jewelry and watch repairs, appraisals, and creative redesigns. Devon is known for its one of a kind “Devon Original” collection featuring extraordinary gemstones and unique designs. Stop in to see our many distinctive designer fashion jewelry collections such as Lika Behar and Rudolf Friedmann, among others, and the prestigious Diamond Collection by Norman Silverman.
At Devon Fine Jewelry we honestly explain a diamond’s quality so you can choose the best diamond for your budget. We carry an expansive bridal collection including A. Jaffe, Noam Carver, Christopher Designs, and Coast, to name a few.
Devon’s friendly and experienced sales staff has decades of experience and includes a graduate appraiser who is also certified by the American Gem Society. We are proud members of the American Gem Society, which serves as a testament to our customers that they are shopping with an ethical and knowledgeable jeweler.
Custom design services are one of our specialties. Let us perform “Devon Magic” and transform your old jewelry into something new and spectacular.
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful engagement ring or want a piece unlike any other in the world, Devon Fine Jewelry is the place to go for your jewelry needs.
303 Franklin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481 | 201.848.8489 www.devonfinejewelry.com
CATERED EVENTS & EVENT PLANNING The Market Basket is an award-winning, full-service caterer, capable of providing complete party planning services for a few or a few thousand. Their knowledgeable staff is experienced in all aspects of event management and ready to put their ideas to work for you. Whether you are planning a Wedding, Rehearsal Dinner, Family Function or Corporate Event, your function will be catered with unique style and professionalism. The culinary selections range from the simple to the sublime. The Market Basket’s extensive menu provides endless ideas for Elegant Dinner Parties, Festive Cocktail Parties, Backyard Barbecues, Theme Parties and Simple Buffets. Experienced catering consultants will be happy to create a custom menu based on your individual needs. All arrangements for your party rentals including custom-sized tents,
dance floors, tables and chairs, china and flatware, glassware, fine silver, and portable cooking equipment, will be arranged for you. Exceptional linens in all fabrics, styles and prints are available to help create the unique atmosphere that you envision.
Not quite sure where to have your event? The Market Basket can provide a list of locations and make recommendations based on your individual party needs.
The safety of clients and staff is the most important. Strict CDC guidelines are followed at all catered events. Your next unforgettable event is just a phone call away . . . 201-891-2000
NEW FOR 2023! Our completely revamped Gallery space boasts sixteen LED screens plus a jumbo 220-inch screen, private bar and buffet, and overlook to FanDuel Sportsbook below.
EADOWLANDS RACING & ENTERTAINMENT features multiple events spaces perfect for your next party, corporate meeting, major life celebration and game day viewing party. Plan your next occasion in our Backyard VIP Tents, Gallery, or rooftop Terrace.
FALL IN LOVE WITH THE OUTDOORS. Host your event at New Jersey’s only four-season mountain resort. Nestled in the scenic northwest corner of New Jersey, the beautiful Red Tail Lodge at Mountain Creek welcomes guests in rustic style with vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and elegant lodge-style decor. Mountain Creek is the perfect location for your big day or next corporate or family banquet event. The Mountain Creek team will provide a seamless day from start to finish, enhancing memories that will last a lifetime.
For those looking to say, “I do” Mountain Creek offers wedding packages from 25 people and up with several indoor and outdoor wedding venue options available, including a beautiful outdoor garden and truly unique,
scenic mountaintop amphitheater. Each ceremony is paired with an expertly catered reception inside the magnificent Red Tail Lodge served by Mountain Creek’s friendly and professional staff. We know how important your event day is to you and our wedding and event specialists will help craft a magical experience that caters to your every need.
For more information, visit www.mountaincreek.com/weddings
Scan for more information.
200 NJ-94, Vernon Township, NJ 07462 www.mountaincreek.com/weddings
WITH ONE-OF-A-KIND SPACES AND EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, our venues serve as the perfect backdrop for your birthday, corporate outing, or any special celebration. Let us make your dream come true-from luxury amenities to over 3 million square feet of unique space, we offer a variety of options to suit every need. Let our knowledgeable event experts turn your dreams into reality. The bigger your vision, the better!
With so many Amazing Venues to choose from, it might be hard to pick just one!
Do you want to host a concert, soccer tournament on turf, or turn a theme park into your private playground? Book a party in one of the country’s
largest indoor waterparks -with record breaking rides, relaxing cabanas and an 81 degree tropical climate all year round! Maybe you are looking for something more elegant? Take a look at our luxury space in The Avenue-it is picture perfect. Invite your guests for a round of mini golf or hands on fun at the Tilt A Tracy Lee Stum Museum. Special events are more fun at American Dream!
Plan Your Perfect Party with American Dream’s team of event experts!
ROLLS ROYCE GHOST
Up to 3 Passengers
MERCEDES BENZ METRIS LIMO
Up to 8 Passengers
CHRYSLER LIMO STRETCH
Up to 6 Passengers
MERCEDES BENZ SPRINTER LIMO
Up to 15 Passengers
MERCEDES BENZ SPRINTER LIMO
Up to 13 Passengers
LIMO BUS WITH RESTROOM
Up to 27 Passengers
SHUTTLE COACH
Up to 29 Passengers
WEDDING TROLLEY 24, 26 & 28 Passengers
EXECUTIVE LIMO COACH
Up to 28 Passengers
EXECUTIVE SUPER SHUTTLE
Up to 51 Passengers
ATTENTION ALL BEAUTY ENTHUSIASTS AND WELLNESS SEEKERS! Venus and Venom Medispa is celebrating seven years and three locations with a GRAND reopening you won’t want to miss.
Join us on Saturday, May 13th at 6pm for an unforgettable evening with a ribbon-cutting by the legendary Tony Award Winner Chita Rivera, along with a star-studded guest list of celebrity friends from Broadway to Bravo. And don’t forget to grab your V&V filled swag bag.
Owned by nurses, Christina Sirera RN (Top 100 Injectors in the US) and Sheila May-Gaughan RN, Venus and Venom is renowned for their artful injections, providing clients with natural-looking lips, contoured cheeks, rejuvenated skin, and turning back the clock to make you look/feel your best.
Venus and Venom offers a wide range of services, from injectables and facials to body contouring, laser hair removal, tattoo removal, coolsculpting & more- even housing Aculiving – the best in acupuncture, all under one roof.
With their newly reimagined state-of-the-art facility and advanced technology, they’re committed to delivering the best results for their clients.
Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a complete transformation, they’ve got you covered. Visit venusandvenom.com
RE-GRAND
Raise a glass of this citrusy cocktail as you toast the summer season.
Yields: 1 serving
INGREDIENTS
n 1¼ oz. silver tequila
n 1 oz. lime juice
n 1 oz. grapefruit juice
n ¼ oz. grenadine
n grapefruit slice or maraschino
cherry for garnish
n salt as needed
Pour all ingredients into shaker and shake well. Strain into a salt-rimmed martini glass or serve over ice. Garnish with a grapefruit slice or cherry.
My version of a Cherry Blossom consists of St. Germaine, agave and Mala Vida tequilla. The St. Germaine brings out the elderberry flower taste and the agave brings out the flavor of the tequila."
—Al Fiorenza, mixologist, French Oak Bar & Grill, OaklandRecipe courtesy of cheersonline.com
IL VILLAGGIO 651 Rte. 17 N. 201.935.7733 ilvillaggio.com
CLIFFSIDE PARK
354 STEAKHOUSE 354 Lawton Ave. 201.941.0499
AVO’S GRILL 720 Anderson Ave. 201.945.9038 orderavos.com
RUDY’S RESTAURANT 591 Anderson Ave. 201.943.9252
SEDONA TAPHOUSE
679 Anderson Ave. 201.943.2300 sedonataphouse.com
VILLA AMALFI
793 Palisade Ave. 201.886.8626 villaamalfi.com
CLOSTER
BRASSERIE MEMERE 107 Vervalen St. 201.660.8822 brasserie-memere.com
THE HILL 252 Schraalenburgh Rd. 201.899.4700 thehillcloster.com
*Editor’s note—Patrons are encouraged to confirm individual restaurant policies regarding social distancing and curbside service.
ALLENDALE ALLENDALE BAR & GRILL
67 W. Allendale Ave. 201.327.3197 allendalebarandgrill.com
ALLENDALE STEAKHOUSE 95 W. Allendale Ave. 201.962.9797 allendalesteakhousenj.com
MEZZA LUNA
96 W. Allendale Ave. 201.327.6556 mezzalunabistro.com
NIRVANA INDIAN KITCHEN 29 W. Allendale Ave. 201.818.2300 nirvanaindiankitchen.com
SAVINI 168 W. Crescent Ave. 201.760.3700 savinirestaurant.com
ALPINE KIKU 385 Rte. 9 W. 201.767.6322
BERGENFIELD CHAPALA GRILL 52 S. Washington Ave. 201.387.2107
chapalamexican grill.com
NIHON KAI 41 S. Washington Ave. 201.384.3000 nihonkaijapanese.com
TOMMY FOX’S PUBLIC HOUSE 32 S. Washington Ave. 201.384.0900 tommyfoxs.com
BOGOTA
LUKA’S ITALIAN CUISINE 10 River Rd. 201.440.2996 lukasitaliancuisine.com
CARLSTADT
BIGGIE’S 430 Rte. 17 S. 201.933.4000 biggies.com
LOCALE CAFÉ AND BAR 208 Piermont Rd. 201.750.3233 locale208closter.com
SEAR HOUSE 411 Piermont Rd. 201.292.4612 searhouse.com
STERN AND BOW 171 Schraalenburgh Rd. 201.750.3350 sternandbowrestaurant.com
CRESSKILL DELVINA RESTAURANT 172 Piermont Rd. 201.816.0239 delvinarestaurant.com
FARMHOUSE CAFE 15 E. Madison Ave. 201.266.8931 farmhousecafenj.com
HANAMI 41 Union Ave. 201.567.8508 hanamirestaurant.com
SAMDAN 178 Piermont Rd. 201.816.7343 samdanrestaurant.com
DEMAREST YASOU MYKONOS 134 Hardenburgh Ave. 201.768.8500 yasoumykonos.com
DUMONT FINK’S BBQ SMOKEHOUSE 26 W. Madison Ave. 201.384.3210 finksbbqsmokehouse.com
FOSCHINI’S 21 E. Madison Ave. 201.387.9998 foschinis.com
GRANT STREET CAFÉ 25 Grant Ave. 201.385.1705 thegrantstreetcafe.com
IL MULINO 132 Veterans Plz. 201.384.7767 ilmulinodumont.com
EAST RUTHERFORD AL DI LA 1 Hoboken Rd. 201.939.1128 aldilaitalianbistro.com
ANNABELLA’S HOUSE OF MOZZARELLA 900 Paterson Plank Rd. 201.804.0303 annabellasmozz.com
BLARNEY STATION PUB 258 Park Ave. 201.531.0001 blarneystation.com
CAFFÉ CAPRI 119 Park Ave. 201.460.1039 caffecaprirestaurant.com
EDGEWATER
BAUMGART’S CAFÉ 59 The Promenade 201.313.3889 baumgartscafe.com
BROWNSTONE PANCAKE FACTORY 860 River Rd. 201.945.4800 brownstonepancake factory.com
DE NOVO EUROPEAN PUB 1257 River Rd. 201.496.6161 denovoeuropeanpub.com
EMMA BISTRO 2 Hilliard Ave. 201.402.7719 emmabistronj.com
FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE 90 The Promenade 201.313.9463 flemingssteakhouse.com
GREEK TAVERNA 55 The Promenade 201.945.8998 greektavernausa.com
HAVEN 2 Main St. 201.943.1900 havenedgewater.com
ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE 15 The Promenade 201.366.4065 ophedgewater.com
PIER 115 115 River Rd. 201.313.2155 pier115barandgrill.com
REBECCA’S 236 Old River Rd. 201.943.8808 rebeccasedgewater.com
RIVER PALM TERRACE 1416 River Rd. 201.224.2013 riverpalm.com
ROBERTO’S II 936 River Rd. 201.224.2524 robertosii.com
SEAK 725 River Rd., #30 201.402.3400 seaknj.com
Getting three squares a day has never been easier—Bergen County is home to a selection of restaurants diverse enough to satisfy all of your cravings.
ELMWOOD PARK
TAVERNA MYKONOS
238 Broadway 201.703.9200 tavernamykonos.com
ROYAL WARSAW 871 River Dr. 201.794.9277 royalwarsaw.com
EMERSON PIMAAN THAI 79 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.967.0440 pimaanthai.com
ENGLEWOOD AKAI LOUNGE 11 N. Dean St. 201.541.0086 akailounge.com
BAUMGART’S CAFÉ 45 E. Palisade Ave. 201.569.6267 baumgartscafe.com
BENNIE’S 54 E. Palisade Ave. 201.894.5700 benniesofenglewood.com
BLUE MOON CAFÉ 23 E. Palisade Ave. 201.541.0600 bluemoonmexican café.com
CASSIE’S 18 S. Dean St. 201.541.6760 cassiespizzeria.com
HUMMUS ELITE 39 E. Palisade Ave. 201.569.5600 hummuselite.com
KHAO THAI CUISINE 4 E. Palisade Ave. 201.894.0343
LA FONDA PAISA 95 W. Palisade Ave. 201.871.3544 lafondapaisausa.com
LA’MEZZA 63 Nathaniel Pl. 201.569.2662 lamezzarestaurant.com
LAS MARAVILLAS DE TULCINGO 84 W. Palisade Ave. 201.568.1980
NOCHES DE COLOMBIA 90 W. Palisade Ave. 201.567.4950 nochesdecolombia.com
PINTXO Y TAPAS 47 N. Dean St. 201.569.9999 englewoodtapas.com
ROSE’S OF ENGLEWOOD 126 Engle St. 201.541.0020 rosesplacenj.com
SOFIA 36 Engle St. 201.541.8530 sofiaenglewood.com
TANI SUSHI & ASIAN GRILL 44 E. Palisade Ave. 201.567.7888 taniofenglewood.com
ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS BROWNSTONE PANCAKE FACTORY 717 E. Palisade Ave. 201.945.4800 brownstonepancake factory.com
CAFÉ ITALIANO 14 Sylvan Ave. 201.461.5041 cafeitaliano.net
CLIFFS STEAKHOUSE 18 Sylvan Ave. 201.944.0233 cliffssteakhouse.com
LEFKES ESTIATORIO 495 Sylvan Ave. 201.408.4444 lefkesnj.com
GRISSINI 484 Sylvan Ave. 201.568.3535 grissinirestaurant.com
FAIR LAWN ANTHONY’S COAL FIRED PIZZA 2101 Promenade Blvd. 201.796.2625 acfp.com
EMPRESS DINER 13-48 River Rd. 201.791.2895 empressdinernj.com
OCEANOS OYSTER BAR & SEA GRILL 2-27 Saddle River Rd. 201.796.0546 oceanosrestaurant.com
RIVER PALM TERRACE 41-11 Rte. 4 W. 201.703.3500 riverpalm.com
ROSE’S PLACE 32-01 Broadway 201.475.8800 rosesplacenj.com
SAGE RESTAURANT 17-15 Broadway 201.797.0500 sagefairlawn.com
FAIRVIEW NOCHES DE COLOMBIA
172 Broad Ave. 201.840.8428 nochesdecolombia.com
PATSY’S 344 Old Bergen Blvd. 201.943.0627 patsysbistro.com
FORT LEE AQUARIUS 230-234 Main St. 201.592.8338 aquariusrestaurant nj.com
BAGGIOS 212 Main St. 201.585.7979 baggiospizzarestaurant. com
BIG RED TOMATO 1205 Anderson Ave. 201.224.6500 brtnj.com
CAP’T LOUI 210 Main St. 201.461.7080 captloui.com
CHILLERS GRILL
2191 Fletcher Ave. 201.461.0075 chillersgrill.com
KUBA RESTAURANT 2139 Hudson Ter. 201.585.1601 kubarestaurant.com
PHO TODAY 2151 Lemoine Ave. 201.585.8818
POMODORO 795 Abbott Blvd. 201.224.0800 pomodoro1.com
PRIME & BEYOND 501 Main St. 201.461.0033 primeandbeyond.com
PUNTA CANA
2151 Lemoine Ave. 201.849.5556 puntacanarestaurante .com
VENTANA’S 200 Park Ave. 201.583.4777 ventanasatthemodern.com
FRANKLIN LAKES
THE CHEF’S TABLE 754 Franklin Ave. 201.891.6644 tctnj.com
SUSHI COCORO 856 Franklin Ave. 201.560.1333 sushicocoro.com
GARFIELD
THE FIREHOUSE 42 Plauderville Ave. 973.478.2226 firehouse-restaurant.com
GOODFELLAS 661 Midland Ave. 973.478.4000 goodfellasristorante.com
LA CAMBUSA 517 River Dr. 973.272.8739 cambusanj.com
LA FORTALEZA 361 Midland Ave. 973.928.4470 lafortalezamexrestaurant .com
GLEN ROCK
GLEN ROCK INN 222 Rock Rd. 201.445.2362 glenrockinn.com
STONE & RAIL 175 Rock Rd. 201.345.0709 stoneandrail.com
TANI SUSHI & ASIAN GRILL 206 Rock Rd. 201.612.1188 taniofglenrock.com
HACKENSACK CASUAL HABANA CAFÉ 125 Main St. 201.880.9844 casualhabanacafe.com
THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY 390 Hackensack Ave. 201.488.0330 thecheesecakefactory.com
THE CROW’S NEST 309 Vincent Ave. 201.342.5445 crowsnest.com
HOT FISH 450 Hackensack Ave. 201.881.0180 hotfishhackensack.com
HOUSTON’S 1 Riverside Sq. 201.488.5667 houstons.com
LIDO RESTAURANT 701 Main St. 201.487.8721 thelidorestaurant.com
LT BAR & GRILL 390 Hackensack Ave. 551.287.6333 ltbarandgrill.com
MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY 70 Riverside Sq. 201.221.2030 maggianos.com
MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE 1 Riverside Sq. 201.487.1303 mortons.com
THE OCEANAIRE 175 Riverside Sq. 201.343.8862 theoceanaire.com
P.F. CHANG’S 390 Hackensack Ave. 201.646.1565 pfchangs.com
THE PICCO TAVERN 160 Prospect Ave. 201.880.8750 piccotavern.com
ROSA MEXICANO 60 Riverside Sq. 201.489.9100 rosamexicano.com
HARRINGTON PARK DONATELLA RISTORANTE 12 Tappan Rd. 201.767.4245 donatellasitalian. restaurant
HASBROUCK HEIGHTS BENSI 459 Rte. 17 S. 201.727.9525 bensihh.com
THE HEIGHTS BAR & GRILL 163 Boulevard 201.288.9338
IVY INN 268 Terrace Ave. 201.393.7699 ivyinn.com
SOFIA’S 220 Boulevard 201.462.0123 sofiasmediterranean grill.com
TOM YUM KOONG 305 Boulevard 201.288.3840 tomyumkoong.net
HAWORTH ALESSANDRO’S 157 Terrace St. 201.385.8544 alessandrosnj.com
ANDIAMO 23 Hardenburgh Ave. 201.384.1551 andiamorestaurant.net
RUGILE’S KITCHEN 147 Terrace St., 201.267.6757, rugileskitchen.com
HILLSDALE THE CORNERSTONE 84 Broadway 201.666.8688 thecornerstonenj.com
DOMANI 387 Washington Ave. 201.722.8881 domanirestaurants.com
FIG & TOMATO 100 Park Ave. 201.722.8880 figandtomatoeatery.com
MATSU SUSHI & GRILL 140 Broadway 201.722.9388
OSSO BUCO 343 Broadway 201.664.1600 ossobucogrill.com
HO-HO-KUS ALT EATS 622 N. Maple Ave. 201.444.1300 alteatscafe.com
CATCHY CAFÉ 614 N. Maple Ave. 201.445.6400 thecatchycaterer.com
HO-HO-KUS INN
1 E. Franklin Tpke. 201.445.4115 hohokusinn.com
HO-HO-KUS SUSHI CAFÉ 29 Sheridan Ave. 201.670.7677 hohokussushicafe.com
ST. EVE’S 611 N. Maple Ave. 201.857.4717 stevesnj.com
LEONIA CAFÉ MIGNON 332 Broad Ave. 201.292.1992
DANTE’S PLACE 373 Broad Ave. 201.592.9071 dantesplace.com
FONTANA TRITONE 248 Fort Lee Rd. 201.242.9040
LITTLE FERRY SEGOVIA STEAKHOUSE 217 Main St. 201.814.1100 segoviasteakhouse.com
LODI KAYA 334 N. Main St. 973.779.1128 kayalodi.com
REBAR & KITCHEN 132 Essex St. 201.368.8181 rebarkitchen.com
MAHWAH BAR & GRILL 2 Island Rd. 201.529.8056 allendalebarandgrill.com
NAGOYA 1007 MacArthur Blvd. 201.818.9933 nagoyacuisine.com
NONNA’S 11 Franklin Tpke. 201.529.1151 nonnasmahwah.com
ROXANNE’S 150 Franklin Tpke. 201.529.0007 roxannes restaurant.com
SANGRIA 1033 MacArthur Blvd. 201.962.3310 sangriamahwah.com
STATE LINE DINER 375 Rte. 17 N. 201.529.3353 statelinediner.com
MAYWOOD ANGELO’S GREEK TAVERNA 245 Maywood Ave. 201.845.4278 angelosgreektavernanj.com
MAYWOOD INN’S TWIN DOOR TAVERN 122 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.843.8022 twindoortavern.com
MONTVALE DELPINO RESTAURANT 108 Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.391.6866 delpinorestaurant.com
BELLISSIMO 12 S. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.746.6669 bellissimonj.com
FIRE & OAK 100 Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.307.1100 fireandoak.com
GEN SUSHI & HIBACHI 14B Chestnut Ridge Rd. 201.930.9188 gensushimontvale.com
HEARTH & TAP CO. 125 N. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.307.6300 hearthandtap.com
YUKI 2 S. Kinderkamack Rd. 201.391.9877 yukimontvale.com
MOONACHIE BAZZARELLI 117 Moonachie Rd. 201.641.4010 bazzarellirestaurant.com
BISTRO 107 107 Moonachie Rd. 201.440.3339 bistro107nj.com
SEGOVIA 150 Moonachie Rd. 201.641.4266 segoviarestaurant.com
MADELEINE’S PETIT PARIS 416 Tappan Rd. 201.767.0063 madeleinespetit paris.com
OLAR NOSO 493 Tappan Rd. 201.402.9355
OAKLAND CENZINO 589 Ramapo Valley Rd. 201.337.6693 cenzinos.com
TROVATO’S DUE 4 Barbara Ln. 201.337.0813 trovatosduenj.com
YUKI 350 Ramapo Valley Rd. 201.337.8889 yuki-oakland.com
OLD TAPPAN PATRIZIA’S 183 Old Tappan Rd. 201.515.2900 patrizias.com
PALISADES PARK SO MOON NAN JIP 238 Broad Ave. 201.944.3998 so-moon-nan-jip.com
PARAMUS BIAGIO’S RISTORANTE 299 Paramus Rd. 201.652.0201 biagios.com
SERGIO’S MISSIONE 2 Mercer St. 973.778.4545 sergiosmissione.com
LYNDHURST ANGELO’S 263 Ridge Rd. 201.939.1922
FOSCHINI’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA 298 Ridge Rd. 201.460.7600 foschinis.com
MICHAEL’S RIVERSIDE 528 Riverside Ave. 201.939.6333 michaelsriverside.com
MAHWAH JUN LUNG 180 Franklin Tpke. 201.529.9898 junlungnj.com
MAYWOOD PANCAKE HOUSE 92 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.880.7842 maywoodpancake house.com
THE SEAFOOD GOURMET 103 W. Pleasant Ave. 201.843.8558 seafood-gourmet.com
MIDLAND PARK ARTURO’S 41 Central Ave. 201.444.2466 arturos.co
FIONA’S RISTORANTE 118 Godwin Ave. 201.857.5800 fionasristorante.com
ROSARIO’S TRATTORIA 29 Central Ave. 201.445.3335 rosariostrattoriamenu.com
NEW MILFORD BARREL & BREW 872 River Rd. 201.483.3329 barrelandbrews.com
CASUAL HABANA CAFÉ 200 Main St. 201.576.0400 casualhabanacafe.com
SANZARI’S NEW BRIDGE INN 105 Old New Bridge Rd. 201.692.7700 sanzaris.com
NORTHVALE BIDDY O’MALLEY’S 191 Paris Ave. 201.564.7893 biddyomalleys.com
THE GREEK VILLAGE 254 Livingston St. 201.750.8570 greekvillagenj.com
THE CAPITAL GRILLE 1 Garden State Plz. 201.845.7040 thecapitalgrille.com
GRAND LUX CAFE 1 Garden State Plz. 201.909.0399 grandluxcafe.com
KIKU 365 Rte. 17 S. 201.265.7200
MANTRA 275 Rte. 4 W. 201.342.8868 mantranj.com
SUBURBAN DINER 172 Rte. 17 N. 201.261.2605 suburbandiner17.com
PARK RIDGE 103 PRIME AT VALENTINO’S 103 Spring Valley Rd. 201.391.2220 103prime.com
ESTY STREET
86 Spring Valley Rd. 201.307.1515 estystreet.com
THE PARK STEAKHOUSE 151 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.930.1300 theparksteakhouse.com
PEPPERCORNS
176 Colony Ave. 201.391.2818 peppercorns176.com
RIDGE DINER 125 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.391.4242 ridgediner.com
RAMSEY ANTHONY FRANCO’S 128 E. Main St. 201.236.8000 afpizza.com
BRADY’S AT THE STATION
5-7 W. Main St. 201.327.9748 bradysatthestation.net
CAFÉ PANACHE
130 E. Main St. 201.934.0030 cafepanachenj.com
KINCHLEY’S TAVERN
586 N. Franklin Tpke. 201.934.7777 kinchleyspizza.com
THE SHANNON ROSE 1200 Rte. 17 201.962.7602 theshannonrose.com
SMYRNA 21 E. Main St. Ramsey 201.934.7990
TAWARA 53 W. Main St. 201.825.8712
VARKA ESTIATORIO 30 N. Spruce St. 201.995.9333 varkarestaurant.com
RIDGEFIELD CAFÉ TIVOLI 533 Shaler Blvd. 201.941.5561 cafetivoli.com
88 RICE SHOP 88 Rte. 46 W. 201.840.8688 88riceshop.com
RIDGEFIELD PARK MK VALENCIA
228 Main St. 201.373.0228 mkvalenciarestaurant.com
THAI PALACE 218 E. Main St. 201.441.9119 thaipalacenj.com
RIDGEWOOD
CAFE 37
37 S. Broad Ave. 201.857.0437 cafe-37.com
CRAVINGS TAPAS BISTRO
8 Wilsey Sq. 201.857.8533 cravingstapas.com
DELHI ACCENT 37 Chestnut St. 201.444.4910 delhiaccentnj.com
FELINA 54 E. Ridgewood Ave. 551.276.5454 felinarestaurant.com
GREEN FUSION 22 Oak St. 201.670.7502 greenfusionnj.com
IT’S GREEK TO ME 21 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.612.2600 itsgreektome.com
LA LANTERNA 29 W. Ridgewood Ave. 201.444.5520 lalanternaof ridgewood.com
LATOUR 6 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.445.5056 latourridgewood.com
LISA’S MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE 28 Oak St. 201.251.8686 lisasmediterranean cuisine.net
PARK WEST TAVERN 30 Oak St. 201.445.5400 parkwesttavern.com
PEARL 17 S. Broad St. 201.857.5100 pearlridgewood.com
RAYMOND’S 101 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.445.5125 raymondsnj.com
ROOTS 17 Chestnut St. 201.444.1922 rootssteakhouse.com
S. EGIDIO 17 N. Broad St. 201.389.3525 segidiopizza.com
STEEL WHEEL TAVERN 51 N. Broad St. 201.882.1800 steelwheeltavern.com
VILLAGE GREEN
36 Prospect St. 201.445.2914 villagegreenrestaurant.com
WHITE MAPLE CAFÉ 47 E. Ridgewood Ave. 201.447.1953 whitemaplecafe.com
RIVER EDGE
MADO RESTAURANT 570 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.265.3629 madorestaurant.business. site
SANDUCCI’S 620 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.599.0600 sanduccis.com
RIVER VALE AMMATA THAI KITCHEN 184 Rivervale Rd. 201.664.2299 ammata.com
ARMANDO’S GRILL 688 Westwood Ave. 201.722.5820 armandostuscangrill.com
LET’S MEAT STEAKHOUSE
625 Rivervale Rd. 201.660.7960 letsmeatsteakhouse.com
ROCHELLE PARK
NANNI
53 W. Passaic St. 201.843.1250 nanni.com
RUTHERFORD CAFÉ MATISSE 167 Park Ave. 201.935.2995 cafematisse.com
FINCH’S 801 Rutherford Ave. 201.231.3141 finchsdining.com
PAISANO’S 132 Park Ave. 201.935.5755 paisanos.com
THE RISOTTO HOUSE 88 Park Ave. 201.438.5344 therisottohouse.com
VOLARE’S 7 Station Sq. 201.935.6606 volaresrestaurant.com
SADDLE BROOK
MIDLAND BREW HOUSE 374 N. Midland Ave. 201.797.0070 midlandbrewhouse.com
QUE PASTA 326 Market St. 201.712.1900 qpitalian.com
THE PLANK PIZZA CO. BEER PARLOR 383 Market St. 201.843.2426
SADDLE RIVER
THE SADDLE RIVER INN 2 Barnstable Ct. 201.825.4016 saddleriverinn.com
TEANECK
AMARONE 63 Cedar Ln. 201.833.1897 amaroneristorante.net
B V TUSCANY 368 Cedar Ln. 201.287.0404 bvtuscany.com
ETC. STEAKHOUSE 1409 Palisade Ave. 201.357.5677 etcsteakhouse.com
NOAH’S ARK 493 Cedar Ln. 201.692.1200 noahsark.net
REGINA’S 827 Teaneck Rd. 201.862.1996 reginassteakhouse andgrill.com
TENAFLY AXIA TAVERNA 18 Piermont Rd. 201.569.5999 axiataverna.com
BRASSERIE 4 Washington St. 201.266.6400 tenaflybrasserie.com
SAYOLA
50 Prospect Ter. 201.871.2182 sayolarestaurantnj.com
TPR RESTAURANT 38 W. Railroad Ave. 201.871.0444 tprrest.com
WALDWICK ANDREA’S RISTORANTE 20 E. Prospect St. 201.670.0275 andreasrestaurant nj.com
LIMONCELLO 32 Franklin Tpke. 201.652.5577 limoncellonj.com
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP
BACARI GRILL 800 Ridgewood Rd. 201.358.6330 bacarigrill.com
WESTWOOD CAFFÉ ANELLO 11 Madison Ave. 201.786.8137 caffeanello.com
DOWNTOWN DHABA 266 Center Ave. 201.664.0123 dhabadowntown.com
FARMHOUSE CAFE 301 Center Ave. 201.664.8424 farmhousecafenj.com
THE IRON HORSE 20 Washington Ave. 201.666.9682 theironhorse.com
KIMCHI SMOKE 301 Center Ave. 201.497.6333 kimchismoke.com
OSTERIA CRESCENDO 36 Jefferson Ave. 201.722.1900 osteriacrescendo.com
PHOENICIAN LOUNGE 284 Center Ave. 201.722.8600 phoenicianlounge.com
WOODCLIFF LAKE SOL RESTAURANT 42 Kinderkamack Rd. 201.746.9363 solrestaurantnj.com
WOOD-RIDGE AL TORO 187 Hackensack St. 862.243.3850 al-toro-restaurant-bar. negocio.site
WYCKOFF ALDO’S 640 Wyckoff Ave. 201.891.2618 aldosofwyckoff.com
BENARES 327 Franklin Ave. 201.904.2222 benaresnj.com
BLUE MOON CAFÉ 327 Franklin Ave. 201.891.1331 bluemoonmexicancafé.com
T.S. MA 637 Wyckoff Ave. 201.891.8878 tsmachinesecuisine.com
WYCKOFF THAI 314 Franklin Ave. 201.485.8855 wyckoffthai.com
DO
Actively seeking professional freelance photographers and writers for Advertising Department’s Special Sections
If interested please contact Jacquelynn Fischer Jacquelynn.Fischer@wainscotmedia.com
Now Available at Action Coffee Company in Hackensack, NJ
9 Lawton St, Hackensack, NJ 07601 (201) 342-7077
Certified organic, shade-grown arabica coffee grown in partnership with indigenous Maya farmer cooperatives in Chiapas, Mexico since 1990. Now stocked at Action Coffee Company: Organic Dark Roast, Swiss-Water® Process Decaf, and our specialty Cuban inspired roast, Café Jiguaní™.
RUTAMAYACOFFEE.COM
I couldn’t think of a better way to add red meat back into my diet (Lenten sacrifice prevailed for 40 days this spring) than sitting down for Brazilian rodizio. And luckily for me and my fellow carnivores, several restaurants specializing in this fun and filling style have opened in Bergen County over the past 12 months.
At Brazeiro Churrascaria, which debuted in Cliffside Park earlier this year, diners can enjoy a traditional meal with appetizers, entrées and desserts from the a la carte menu or they can choose the more-bang-for-your-buck rodizio option. The latter choice features a variety of spit-roasted meats that are carved to your liking at your table. Meat waiters, often called gauchos, deliver the different cuts of beef, pork and chicken on a rotating basis—and they’ll continue to bring you meat until your full belly says stop.
With rodizio on our minds, my dining companion and I each ordered a cocktail as well as an appetizer to start. Our server, Daisy, suggested we try a caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail, typically made with cachaca (a popular Brazilian rum), fresh sugar cane and lime. We tried the classic and mango versions, and they were two of the tastiest cocktails we’ve had in a while. (They’re like mojitos without the mint.) As we sipped, we also cut into our app, a tender grilled octopus arm served over a tomato-based romesco sauce with capers. It was the ideal start to whet our appetites.
The rodizio experience typically includes access to the restaurant’s serveyourself salad/sides bar, but Brazeiro’s Cliffside Park location—it also has two spots in Hudson County—had yet to complete construction of its salad bar when we went. Instead, the staff brought us all the offerings: fried plantains, yuca fries, french fries, rice, black beans, fluffy pão de queijo (gluten-free cheesy bread) and Caesar salad. It’s easy to fill up on the sides, especially the delicious bread, but fortunately the meat cycle started quickly. Daisy told us there would be as many as 14 types of meat making their rounds fast and furiously—and we were ready.
Our rotation started with Brazeiro’s homemade smoked sausage, which had an amazing snap when you bit into the casing, and a spiciness on the tongue (we were warned) that turned out to be just the right amount. When Daisy wasn’t around to tell us about the meat our gaucho, Chiki, was happy to explain. He told us about the next three: beef tenderloin, flank steak and bacon-wrapped filet mignon. For most turns, we had the option of selecting our preferred level of doneness, and the medium-rare cuts were spot on, juicy and tender. I do admit that the filet mignon, which in my opinion has too many competing flavors, wasn’t my favorite choice—at Brazeiro or at other rodizios I’ve tried in the past. I’ll never turn it down, however.
As it happened, I didn’t turn anything away as the meat kept coming— more sausage, pork loin, chicken drumsticks, an unbelievably flavored sirloin and my favorite of the night, picanha—the perfect cut of tender beef and fat. Much to Chiki’s delight, I asked for several slices each time he brought the picanha to our table.
Completely full, we were about to tap out when Daisy reminded us that we hadn’t tried the roasted pineapple yet—and we were glad we found space for it. Topped with cinnamon, the slices of warm fruit were the ideal way to cap the dining experience. With our sweet tooths now awake, we tried—and loved—the manjar de coco (coconut pudding) for our formal dessert.
From the cocktails to the sides to the lengthy choice of meats, everything served at Brazeiro is a cut above similar Brazilian barbecues. Thankfully I don’t have to endure another 40-day observance to return to the restaurant— I’ll probably just wait for the next urge to overindulge.
There’s something for everyone, in every price range… Creative Artist-design gemstone, silver, gold, and quality-craft jewelry—gemstones, minerals, fossils, shells— crystals, carvings, bookends—vintage jewelry and decoratives…And much, much more. The Gem Mine is truly unique. Visit us and see for yourself!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thegemminenj
Hours:
Monday-Friday 10AM-6PM
Saturday 10AM-5PM
65 Westwood Ave., Westwood, NJ 201.722.8676 | thegemminenj.com
Turn your springtime event into a fiesta with Blue Moon.
Text 201-563-3594 to start your party at your “casa” or ours!
Now accepting reservations for Mother’s Day Brunch too.
Current Locations
www.BlueMoonMexicanCafe.com
Wyckoff - 327 Franklin Ave., 201.891.1331
Denville - 45 Broadway, 973.625.3663
Catering Zone - Northern NJ, Rockland, Westchester and the Bronx
MAY 13
the WHARTON INSTITUTE THE PERFORMING ARTS YOUTH ORCHESTRA AND PHILHARMONIC when they perform at West Side Presbyterian Church in Ridgewood. This p.m. show features Mark Gunderman as the conductor. General admission is $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors. Learn more and get your tickets at whartonarts. myboxoffice.us.
MAY 13
season for birdwatching, so well do so with a pro. Bird Oakland resident Rick hosts a SPRING BIRD WATCHING EVENT at Great Park in Oakland, where the is on for resident birds and colorful migrants. The walk is bright and early from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Admission is free. Bring binoculars and water and wear boots, as some trails may be muddy. Fly on over to eventbrite.com for more details.
MAY 13
The most anticipated event at MetLife this month is Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour,” but could MONSTER JAM be the next best thing? Kids and kids at heart will experience “full-throttle family fun” as they witness 12,000-pound monster trucks perform out-ofthis-world stunts and tricks. There will also be a monster truck battle for the championship title. Doors open at 5 p.m. for the 7 p.m. show, but come around 2:30 to join the “pit party.” Tickets start at $25. Details are available at
MAY 13, JUNE 3
Sure, our local malls are for shopping at the big-box stores, but they can be a way to appreciate our local artists too. THE ARTISAN MARKET AT BERGEN TOWN CENTER, open from noon to 7 p.m., will feature handcrafted goods, pet products, edible treats and more, all made by local artists. The market will be located in the shopping center near Whole Foods and Kohl’s. RSVP at facebook.com/events/bergen-town-center.
MAY 21
THE RUBIN RUN has been the signature race in Bergen County for 40 years running (see what we did there?), and celebrates health and wellness for people of all races, ages and abilities. As always, this year’s race will raise money for the programs and services of Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, with an emphasis on inclusivity. The run kicks off at 8 a.m. and features a 10K run and a 5K run/walk through the tree-lined streets of Tenafly, Englewood Cliffs and Englewood. Those who get to the end of the race will enjoy kids’ activities on the field too. Visit jccotp.org/event/rubin-runrunning-for-inclusion/ for details and pricing info.
MAY 21
Reminisce back to the first decade of MTV—when MTV actually meant “music television”—when THE GEORGIA 5, a Rockland-County based ’80s cover band, returns to Pub 17 & Lounge in Ramsey for an ’80s Dance Party. They’ll be performing the hits from 2 to 5 p.m. at the space formerly known as the Ramsey Tap Room & Grill. Bring your dancing shoes and your appetite (’80s garb is extra credit)! Learn more about the band and other upcoming gigs at facebook.com/TheGeorgia5/.
MAY 26
Free popcorn, a feature film and a night out on the lawn—where do we sign up? Head to Grace United Methodist Church in Wyckoff at 6:30 p.m. for FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT Parents and their kids can bring their own blankets and chairs, while popcorn and other treats—as well as the film—will be provided for free. The event is free, but reservations are required. Visit gumc.org for updates and to make your reservations today!
Nothing says Memorial Day weekend quite like some good ol’ American food trucks. Enjoy a whole slew them at the ST. PHILIPS FOOD TRUCK FEST at St. Philips Church
with some FLAVOR
Tenafly beginning describes twist,” consists dance to of guitarist is free, but their site, site also tour stops ones at Noches Hackensack Colombia
MAY 29
Tons of Bergen own parades including Bergenfield, Lakes and name just looking to different plans, join the Bergen County Historical Society at their MEMORIAL DAY WREATH LAYING at 53 Court St. in Hackensack at 10 a.m. Beginning at the gravesite of General Enoch Poor, this 40-minute long ceremony will honor those that died in the United States Service of Armed Forces. Admission is free, but RSVPs are recommended at bergencountyhistory.org.
markets and monster trucks to live bands and bird watching—there’s something for everyone this month in Bergen.
We founded CLC Landscape Design with the idea that “great landscapes begin with great design ideas.” Within one company we combined the vision of the landscape architect and the craftsmanship of the landscape contractor. This concept of design/build landscaping produces superior landscapes because the designer’s vision is implemented by a team of craftsmen trained in installing his landscapes. We’ve been a family-owned business and leader in design/build landscaping since 1973.
973.839.6026
CLCDESIGN.COM
Thomas Flint Landscape Design & Development is an awardwinning full-service landscape design and construction firm specializing in state-of-the-art, custom gunite swimming pools, masonry and complete outdoor living spaces. We are focused on the big picture and how every element and detail fits, flows and works together. Our completed projects represent the essence of our clients’ characters, style and passions synthesized into a final creation that embodies timeless comfort and style.
AIR GROUP
An Air Group Home Gold Maintenance Plan is the perfect solution to ensure your comfort systems run safely and efficiently. As a plan member, you’ll receive priority attention and discounts on other home services to save money while maintaining your comfort. You also enjoy “front-of-the-line” service that places you first to receive help in an emergency, even on the hottest days! Air Group’s expertise covers all aspects of cooling, heating, plumbing, air quality, and generator systems. Call 973.929.2080 or visit AirGroupLLC.com to learn more about their Home Protection Plans and ensure peace of mind for your home.
973.929.2080 | WWW.AIRGROUPLLC.COM
The team at B&B has been satisfying customers for 50 years. The pools they build—including all those from their early days—continue to be beautiful and inviting. Virtually every year since B&B started building pools, they’ve won awards. With their attention focused on providing ease, convenience and efficiency, B&B created the IntelliPool® and IntelliSpa® bringing the best of technology together with the simple pleasure of crystal-clear water.
787 CHESTNUT RIDGE RD., CHESTNUT RIDGE, NY
845.356.0778 | WWW.BBPOOLANDSPA.COM
Balitano Contracting tastefully constructs outdoor kitchens, outdoor living rooms, fireplaces, fire pits, custom patios, landscape, and swimming pool designs. We engage our customers in an exceptional way, ensuring we deliver the highest quality in our work and materials while affordable price. We perform all aspects of the project from initial design to final installation. As a part of our commitment we offer a 100% guarantee on all of our work. Trust your next project to Balitano, a business built on trust, service, reliability.
FORT LEE, NJ
201.944.5425 | WWW.BALITANO.COM
Whether you are considering indoor or outdoor living space changes, let the professionals at Creative Design Construction and Remodeling help you find the perfect solution.
Our Design-Build process offers clients a time and money saving “one-stop shopping advantage.” Complete with our own award-winning in-house design team, build teams, cabinet department, and showroom. Is it time to stop thinking about it and start making it a reality? For more information call us or visit our website.
201.815.8943
36 INDUSTRIAL PARK, WALDWICK, NJ 201.327.5162
WWW.THOMASFLINT.COM
Scenic Landscaping is the premiere landscape design-build firm with over 48 years of award winning projects. In collaboration with our sister companies, Tapestry Landscape Architecture and Tranquility Pools, we provide superior craftsmanship and creativity. Our services include everything from intimate gardens, to custom pools, outdoor living spaces, and entire property transformations. We pride ourselves on our ability to exceed all expectations while bringing our clients’ visions to life.
7 ARGYLE RD., HASKELL NJ | 973.616.9600
WWW.SCENICLANDSCAPING.COM
During the spring & summer months, Ski Barn carries the best quality outdoor furniture, firepits, grills & accessories in cutting-edge styles you will not find anywhere else. Each member of the sales staff is well trained on the brands, which makes them knowledgeable and helpful. Ski Barn’s primary focus is you, the customer. Ski Barn offers FREE in-store, at-home or virtual consultation and local delivery with their own set-up crew. 4 locations throughout NJ.
846 ROUTE 17 NORTH, PARAMUS, NJ
201.445.9070
WWW.SKIBARN.COM
The Community Chest, based in Englewood, received a $27,700 grant from Veolia Water North Jersey. Funding will support the new SAT preparation program, Bound for Success, a partnership with The Community Chest, Dwight Morrow High School and Bergen Family Center’s in-school program, The Zone. 4 Staff from Veolia and The Community Chest pose with the donation check.
Ridgewood-based West Bergen Mental Healthcare resumed its in-person Career Day program. Volunteer participants are invited to discuss their career paths and offer inspiration to the clients in the Adult Day Treatment Program. This program began as a way to encourage clients to seek employment or build confidence in their current position. 5 Karen and Randy spoke about their careers with West Bergen Mental Healthcare clients.
Members of Bergen Volunteers’ Bergen LEADS class recently immersed themselves in the county’s arts and culture scene. They received a behind-the-scenes look at bergenPAC, the Barrymore Film Center and Black Box Performing Arts Center. Cynthia Forster, the director of Bergen County Cultural & Historic Affairs, also presented to the group. 1 Bergen LEADS volunteers at bergenPAC
Teresa Kersey, project director of the LEAP program at Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Lodi, was recognized by Joseph Licata, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs, for her commitment and dedication to the community’s kids. 6 Joseph Licata, Teresa Kersey, James Castillo 7
The Fairleigh Dickinson University men’s basketball team scored two upset wins in the NCAA Tournament, including a historic victory over No. 1-seeded Purdue. The team was in tip-top shape for their March Madness run thanks to its doctor, Dennis Pfisterer, D.O., orthopedic surgeon at Holy Name Medical Center. 7 Ansley Almonor, Dennis Pfisterer, Joe Munden
Bergenites always show up to support their friends and neighbors—especially when help is needed most.BERGEN
“This is my 3-year-old son, Wesley. He was in an awful situation and came to live with my husband and me in December 2021, and we finalized his adoption in August 2022, just before this photo was taken at Cooper’s Pond in Bergenfield. It’s a special place for my family because when Wesley first moved in, I’d take him there to see the ducks and breathe the fresh air while we bonded. I am forever taking photos of Wesley, because I am in constant awe that I became a first-time mother at 48 years old.”
—Christina Magill, Bergenfield
Outstanding care for colon cancer is more than just treatment. It’s feeling like you’re part of the team. That’s why at Valley Health System, our team of highly skilled experts design personalized treatment plans while nurses walk you through every step along the way – from your first visit, to well after you’ve made it back home. Because it isn’t enough to just treat the whole cancer, we’re here to treat the whole you.
To learn about a more personal approach to cancer care, call 201- 614- 6130 or visit ValleyHealth.com / ColonCancer
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